Author pov....

After bringing Ishaan back from school, Rahul didn't go to the police station, and Ishani didn't attend college either.

Both of them decided to stay home for the day.

As the evening settled in, the house was wrapped in a peaceful silence.

Rahul sat comfortably on the couch in the living room, watching the news on television.

The glow from the TV reflected across the room as reporters discussed the day's events.

Bhavya walked out of her room and saw Rahul sitting in the living room.

Taking a deep breath, she walked over to him.

"Rahul, I've been thinking..." she began softly. "Maybe I should move into the flat where Deeksha and Ishani used to live."

Rahul looked up at her, confused. "Why? Is there some problem here?"

Bhavya quickly shook her head. "No, there's no problem. It's just... you're married now. I don't think it's right for me to keep living here with you."

For a moment, Rahul simply stared at her before letting out an exasperated sigh.

"Are you crazy?" he said. "You're not going anywhere. You'll stay right here."

"Rahul-"

"No," he interrupted firmly. "You can't live alone, and you know that. And if you're worried that Ishani might have a problem with it, then stop. She won't."

Bhavya fell silent.

Rahul's expression softened as he looked at her.

"When you're here, I don't have to worry about you, Bhavya," he said quietly. "You're my best friend, and I want to take care of you. Honestly... I'd really like you to stay. So please, stay here, okay?"

Bhavya felt her eyes fill with tears. She nodded gently.

"Okay," she whispered.

Turning away before her emotions could overwhelm her, she started walking back toward her room.

Just then, she noticed Ishani standing nearby, having heard the conversation. Ishani smiled warmly at her.

"I really don't have any problem with you staying here, Bhavya," she said. "Not at all."

Bhavya looked at her, her heart suddenly feeling a little lighter.

Bhavya forced a small smile and nodded."Thank you," she said softly.

Without waiting any longer, she turned and walked toward her room.

The moment the door closed behind her, the smile disappeared from her face. She leaned against the door and shut her eyes, trying to hold back the emotions rising inside her.

"I have to leave," she whispered to herself.

Her voice trembled."If Rahul keeps stopping me from going... I'll completely fall apart."

She lowered her gaze, her heart aching.

Watching Rahul and Ishani grow closer every day was becoming harder than she had expected. They were husband and wife now.

They belonged together. No matter how much she cared about Rahul, she knew she couldn't let herself stay trapped in feelings that had no place in his life anymore.

Taking a shaky breath, she wiped away the tears gathering in her eyes.

"The longer I stay here," she murmured, "the harder it will be to let go."

Sooner or later, she would have to leave not because anyone wanted her to, but because staying was becoming too painful for her heart.

Ishani walked into the living room carrying two cups of tea. She handed one to Rahul.

"Here," she said softly.

Rahul took the cup from her and smiled."Thank you."

A small smile appeared on Ishani's face.

Rahul turned his attention back to the television, where the evening news was playing.

Ishani sat down beside him with her own cup of tea, and for a few moments, the two watched the news in comfortable silence.

As Rahul sipped his tea, he glanced at Ishani sitting next to him. A faint smile crossed his face.

Then, after a brief pause, he asked, "Ishani, you don't have any problem with Bhavya staying here, do you?"

Ishani looked at him and shook her

head."No. I don't have any problem with it."

Rahul nodded, seeming relieved.

"Good."

He took another sip of his tea and

smiled appreciatively."This tea is really good."

Ishani's smile widened a little.

"I'm glad you like it."

The conversation faded, and they returned to watching the news, quietly enjoying their tea as the evening settled around them.

Ishani was in the kitchen, busy cooking, while Rahul insisted on helping her.

Ishani kept telling him there was no need, but Rahul just wouldn't listen and kept helping her anyway.

Just then, Bhavya came out of her room wearing her police uniform, all set for her night duty.

Rahul immediately looked at her and said, "Bhavya, sit down and eat something before you go. The food is ready."

Bhavya looked at Rahul and Ishani working together in the kitchen, and a small spark of jealousy hit her. She replied, "I don't really feel like eating."

But Rahul wasn't having any of it he insisted, pulled out a chair for her, and served her the food. "Just eat," he said firmly. Bhavya sat down and started eating.

Soon after, Ishani brought Ishaan out and started feeding him too.

Just then, Deepak walked into the house, looking super excited. "Guess what!" he shouted.

Rahul asked, "What happened?"

Deepak said, "Our DGP sir's 50th wedding anniversary is coming up! We've all been sent cards to attend."

Rahul took the card, looked at it, and asked, "Why are you getting so excited about their wedding anniversary?"

Deepak laughed and said, "I don't know, just like that. They're my favorites!"

Then, looking at Bhavya, he asked, "You're going, right?"

Bhavya replied, "Yes."

Deepak nodded and then added, "Ishani Bhabhi, you have to come too, okay?"

Ishani felt a bit awkward and mumbled, "Me? What will I do there?"

Deepak insisted, "Bhabhi, you are Rahul's wife now. You have to go everywhere with your husband."

Rahul immediately jumped in and said, "Ishani, it's not really necessary. If you're not comfortable with it, you don't have to go."

Ishani looked at Rahul, her eyes searching his face as she asked, "If I come, would you have a problem with it?"

Rahul immediately replied, "No, why would I have a problem?"

A small, genuine smile touched Ishani's lips. "Okay, then I'll come," she said.

Rahul's face lit up instantly. He couldn't help but feel happy this was the first time Ishani was going to step out anywhere with him as his wife.

Bhavya stood up from the table, finished with her meal. "I should get going now," she said, before heading out.

Rahul and Deepak both bid her goodbye, and the room felt a little quieter as she left for her duty.

Ishani gently carried Ishaan to his room and carefully tucked him into bed. After making sure he was asleep, she stepped outside and saw Deepak standing there.

"Deepak, you should eat dinner too," Ishani said softly.

Deepak shook his head with a faint smile. "No, I should leave now. Deeksha must be waiting for me."

Ishani nodded. "Okay."

As Deepak turned to go, Ishani looked at Rahul. "Rahul, you should eat dinner."

Rahul smiled. "Yeah, I will."

The two of them sat together and quietly ate their meal. Deepak glanced back one last time. Watching them share a peaceful moment, a warm smile appeared on his face. Without saying anything, he left.

After finishing dinner, Ishani and Rahul washed the dishes together. The kitchen was filled with comfortable silence and small smiles.

Once everything was done, they walked toward their rooms. Rahul pulled out his bedding and started heading outside.

"Good night," he said.

"Good night," Ishani replied.

But as Rahul walked away, something felt strange to her. She didn't like the fact that he was leaving his own room because of her. A small feeling of guilt settled in her heart.

Meanwhile, Rahul entered the other room and lay down on the bed. A wide smile spread across his face as he stared at the ceiling. He couldn't stop smiling. The happiness in his heart was impossible to hide.

Still smiling to himself, Rahul slowly closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.

The next day, Ishani left Ishaan in Bhavya's care. A flicker of hesitation held her back she truly didn't want to be a burden or cause any trouble for Bhavya. But Bhavya waved away her concerns insisting, "I have absolutely no problem with it Ishaan is more than welcome to stay with me."

Relieved and grateful, Ishani agreed.

Rahul drove her to college. As he dropped her off, he flashed a quick smile and said his goodbyes before heading off to his own day.

While Ishani was settling into her routine at college, her phone buzzed with a message from Deeksha. "Di, are you free for some shopping today? I need to pick up an outfit for the wedding anniversary party of Deepak and Rahul's DGP sir."

Ishani quickly typed back, "Yes, absolutely! Just let me know when and where."

Deeksha sent over the time and the meeting point, and Ishani replied with a simple, "Okay."

She called Rahul immediately to let him know her plans. "Rahul, I'm heading out for shopping with Deeksha later," she explained.

"Okay, that sounds good," Rahul replied, his voice calm and steady. "Just make sure you send me your live location, alright?"

As she hung up, a soft smile played on Ishani's lips. It wasn't just a request; it was a testament to how deeply Rahul cared for her.

He always prioritized her safety, wanting to ensure she was protected and accounted for at all times.

Feeling a quiet sense of comfort, she sent him her location and turned her focus back to her students, beginning her lessons for the day.

Once college wrapped up, Ishani headed straight to meet Deeksha. The two of them dived into their shopping spree with excitement.

Deeksha gravitated toward a stunning black gown, holding it up as she looked at herself in the mirror.

Ishani watched her, a warm smile spreading across her face. "You look absolutely gorgeous in that, Deeksha," she said earnestly. "You should definitely get it."

Deeksha beamed, her eyes sparkling. "Thank you, Di! But what about you? You don't really wear western clothes, so are you planning to go for a saree?"

Ishani hesitated, a wave of uncertainty washing over her. She hadn't given it much thought, and the reality of the situation began to settle in.

"I suppose a saree would be best," she murmured, though her mind was racing.

They wandered into a saree boutique, rows of vibrant silks and chiffons lining the walls. Ishani began to browse, but she felt overwhelmed.

She had never attended a high-profile party like this before, and the pressure felt immense.

The thought of walking in as "Rahul's wife" paralyzed her what if she couldn't carry herself with the grace expected of his status? What if she did something wrong and ended up embarrassing him? The fear gnawed at her, making every choice feel like a potential disaster.

Noticing her hesitation, Deeksha gently nudged her. "Di, you're overthinking this. There are so many beautiful sarees here. Honestly, pick any one of them you look lovely in everything you wear. Just choose what makes you feel comfortable!"

Ishani's eyes finally landed on a beautiful red saree with intricate zari work.

She held it up, a hint of hope in her eyes as she turned to Deeksha. "How does this one look? Do you think it's appropriate?"

Deeksha's face lit up immediately. "It's absolutely stunning, Di! You'll look gorgeous in it."

Feeling a sudden boost of confidence, Ishani nodded, a soft smile finally replacing her earlier anxiety. "Okay, then. Let's go with this one."

They headed to the counter to settle the bill, and after finishing their shopping, they made their way back home.

As they walked in, the scene that greeted them warmed Ishani's heart Ishaan was sitting quietly, focused on his books while Bhavya patiently helped him with his studies.

Watching them, Ishani felt a wave of genuine gratitude.

She walked over to Bhavya, her voice filled with sincerity. "Thank you so much, Bhavya. I really appreciate you looking after him."

Bhavya simply offered a small, knowing nod, acknowledging the bond between them.

Seeing his mother, Ishaan quickly pushed his books aside and ran toward her.

Ishani scooped him up into her arms, pressing a loving kiss to his forehead. "Did you miss your mumma?" she asked softly.

Ishaan nodded enthusiastically, wrapping his arms around her neck.

Ishani sat down, pulling him into her lap, and began to gently ask him about his day, eager to hear all about the little things he had done while she was away.

.................................................................................................

Meanwhile, Deeksha reached home, carrying her shopping bags. As she walked in, she saw Deepak and Mannat in the kitchen, busy cooking together.

"What's going on in here? What are you two making?" she asked, setting her bags down.

Mannat's face lit up the moment she saw her mother. "Mumma, you're back!" she chirped.

Then, her expression turned serious. "Mumma, Dadi isn't feeling well, so Papa and I are cooking."

Deeksha's heart skipped a beat. "Aunty is unwell? What happened?"

Deepak quickly stepped in, his voice calm to soothe her. "Don't worry, it's just a fever. I've already given her the medicine, and she's resting now."

Deeksha let out a long, shaky sigh of relief, though she couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. "You should have told me, Deepak. I was just out shopping..."

"I knew you were looking forward to it, and I didn't want you to worry unnecessarily," Deepak replied gently.

Deeksha was quickly intercepted by an excited Mannat. She pulled out the black gown from the bag, her eyes widening. "Wow, Mumma! This is so beautiful! Please wear it right now I want to see how you look!"

Deeksha shook her head, smiling. "Not

now. I'll wear it tomorrow, and you can see it then."

"No, please, right now!" Mannat insisted, tugging at her hand.

Deepak joined in with a playful grin, "She's right, you know. I'd love to see it, too. Go on, put it on and show us."

"Okay, okay, you win," Deeksha laughed, surrendering to their enthusiasm.

She went to their room, changed into the gown, and stepped out.

Deepak's breath hitched he stood there, simply watching her, momentarily speechless at how elegant she looked.

Mannat clapped her hands, beaming. "Mumma, you look so beautiful!"

Deeksha pulled her daughter into a warm embrace, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Well, I'm Mannat's mumma, aren't I? I have to be beautiful!" she teased.

Mannat giggled, the kitchen filled with a sudden, lighthearted joy that chased away the earlier worry of the day.

"I've shown you, now let me go change," Deeksha said with a playful smile. Mannat nodded, happily turning her attention back to the kitchen, and Deeksha slipped into their bedroom.

Deepak told Mannat, "Keep an eye on the cooker, princess, I'll be right back." He then followed Deeksha into the room. As he walked in, he caught her in the middle of unzipping her gown.

He stopped in his tracks, his eyes softening as he took in her appearance.

"Wait," he murmured, his voice dropping a notch. "Let me get a better look at you."

Caught off guard, Deeksha

instinctively pulled the fabric tight against her back, her face flushing.

"Deepak! You should have knocked before coming in," she scolded, though her tone lacked any real anger.

Deepak frowned playfully, closing the distance between them. "Oh, so now I need permission to see my own wife? Since when did we start needing to knock?"

Deeksha bit her lip, feeling his presence intensify. "Still, it's just... proper, you know?"

He ignored her protest, pulling her gently toward him by her waist. "Is it because you know how stunning you look that you're acting so shy?" he teased, his eyes dark with affection. "Is that it? A little pride in your beauty, hmm?"

Deeksha's breath hitched, her heart beginning to race against her ribs. She looked up at him, her voice barely a whisper. "Yes... maybe I am a little

proud."

Deepak stepped closer, his hand reaching for the zipper at her back.

Deeksha's hand fluttered there, trying to stop him, but he gently moved her hand aside, taking control of the zipper himself.

A shiver ran down her spine. "Deepak, stop! What are you doing?" she gasped, glancing nervously toward the door. "Mannat might come in!"

Deepak didn't budge, his hands lingering at the small of her back as he pinned her with a look that made her knees feel like jelly. "She won't come in just yet," he murmured, his voice dropping into that low, husky register that always made her heart skip a beat. "Now, come on give me a proper kiss. Quick."

Deeksha feigned a glare, trying to pull away, though her hands only rested lightly on his chest. "Don't be ridiculous, Deepak. Let me go!"

"Not a chance," he countered, his eyes dark with playfulness. "Not until you pay the toll. A real kiss on the lips, and then maybe I'll let you go."

With a soft huff of mock frustration, she leaned in and pressed a swift, feather-light peck to his lips.

Deepak drew back immediately, a look of comical indignation crossing his face. "Is that what you call a kiss? That was barely a greeting!"

"It was a kiss, you greedy man!" she argued, though her cheeks were already flushing a deep, delightful shade of rose.

"No," he shook his head, his gaze dropping to her lips before meeting her eyes again, his expression softening into something far more intense. "I want a proper kiss. A French kiss."

Deeksha felt the air in the room thicken. She traced the line of his jaw with her eyes, her pulse thrumming in her throat. "Deepak... aren't you pushing your luck just a little?"

"Not at all," he whispered, leaning in until their breaths mingled. "I think, after all these years, I've earned the right to be a little demanding with my wife."

She felt a shiver trace its way down her spine. The playfulness was still there, but beneath it was a magnetic pull she found impossible to resist. She took a breath, letting her walls come down.

"Fine," she conceded, a mischievous, daring smile touching her lips. "I'll make it worth your while... tonight."

Deepak's eyes widened, a triumphant, boyish grin breaking across his face. "Are you serious? That's a promise, Deeksha. Don't think I'll forget."

"I know you won't," she laughed, finally pushing against his chest to create some breathing room. "Now, Go check on the dinner before everything burns."

Deepak backed away, his gaze still lingering on her with unmistakable promise before he turned toward the door.

Deeksha stood in the quiet of the room, her hand pressed against her racing heart, a lingering, secret smile dancing on her lips as she watched him leave.

After a quiet, cozy dinner, Deepak insisted on clearing the table and washing the dishes himself.

Deeksha, exhausted from the day's shopping and the thrill of their earlier encounter, took Mannat to bed. Within minutes, the soft, rhythmic breathing of mother and daughter filled the room as they drifted off into a deep, peaceful sleep.

When Deepak finally walked into the bedroom, humming to himself with the memory of their earlier promise still lingering in his mind, he stopped dead in his tracks.

His smile faltered as he saw Deeksha curled up in bed, sound asleep, with Mannat snuggled tightly against her.

The space that should have been his was entirely occupied by their

daughter.

A flash of playful irritation crossed his face. She did this on purpose, he thought, narrowing his eyes at her peaceful expression.

He crept closer and began his mission to wake her, though he was careful not to disturb Mannat. He started by gently shaking her shoulder, whispering her name.

When she didn't budge, he tried nudging her arm, even tickling her slightly, but Deeksha remained impressively still, feigning deep slumber. She was determined to win this little battle of wills.

Deepak let out a frustrated, weary huff. He circled the bed a few times, hoping for a flicker of an eyelid or a suppressed giggle, but he got nothing.

Defeated by her absolute commitment to "sleeping," he eventually gave up. With a heavy sigh and a muttered complaint under his breath, he climbed into the small sliver of space left on the edge of the bed and lay down, staring at the ceiling.

Only when his breathing finally settled into the steady rhythm of sleep did Deeksha's eyelids flutter open.

She tilted her head toward him, catching his silhouette in the dim light, and a soft, triumphant laugh bubbled up in her throat.

She had successfully deflected his advances for the night. Satisfied with her little victory, she snuggled back into the covers, closed her eyes, and drifted off into a blissful, dreamless sleep.

.....................................................................................................

The evening of the anniversary party had finally arrived.

Ishani stood before the mirror, taking a final look at herself. She had chosen the red zari saree they had picked out, her hair cascading in soft, open waves, and a touch of minimal lipstick that perfectly highlighted her natural grace.

She looked nothing short of breathtaking elegant, radiant, and ethereal.

Outside, Rahul stood waiting, his eyes fixed on the bedroom door.

Bhavya walked up to him, checking the time. "Has Ishaan gone to Rajni Aunty's place?" she asked.

"Yes, he just left," Rahul replied, his focus barely shifting.

"Okay," Bhavya said, turning to leave. "I'll head out now you two can follow."

"Wait, stay," Rahul suggested. "Let's all go together."

Bhavya shook her head. "No, you two go ahead. I'll make my own way."

With that, she left them alone.

A moment later, the door opened, and Ishani stepped out. The sight of her left Rahul completely breathless. For a few seconds, he literally forgot to breathe.

She looked so stunning that the world around him seemed to blur into nothingness.

Ishani walked up to him, feeling a bit self-conscious under his intense gaze.

"Should we go, Rahul?" she asked softly.

Rahul remained rooted to the spot, his eyes wide, mesmerized by her beauty.

He couldn't find his voice. Confused by his silence,

Ishani tilted her head, a worried frown creasing her brow. "Rahul? What happened? Are you okay?"

She reached out and gently shook his arm.

The touch snapped Rahul back to reality. "W-what? Yes... what?" he stammered, clearly disoriented.

"Where are you lost?" she asked, a faint, smile appearing on her face. "Let's go, we're going to be late."

Rahul felt his heart hammering against his ribs, a wild, rhythmic thrum of nerves and admiration.

"Yes, let's go," he managed to say, his voice thick with emotion.

As they walked toward the car, Rahul made sure to stay close, matching her pace perfectly.

Every time she moved, the subtle, sweet scent of her perfume drifted toward him, intoxicating him, making his head spin with a heady, beautiful daze.

He couldn't take his eyes off her, and for the first time, the upcoming party seemed like a distant background detail compared to the woman walking by his side.

Rahul walked around the car and opened the passenger door, his hand instinctively shielding the frame as Ishani stepped inside.

He moved to the driver's side with a deliberate calmness, but his composure was thinning. As he pulled onto the road, his gaze kept drifting away from the traffic, drawn magnetically toward the woman sitting beside him.

Throughout the entire drive, Ishani felt the weight of his stare. Every time she caught him glancing at her, a flush of nervous excitement crept up her neck.

She looked out the window, trying to hide her bashfulness, but her heart was racing in sync with the rhythm of the road. She knew exactly what he was thinking, and the silence in the car felt heavy with unspoken admiration.

Before long, they reached the venue an elegant, brightly lit space buzzing with the sound of music and conversation. Rahul parked the car and stepped out, quickly making his way around to her side.

He opened the door for her, his eyes softening as she stepped out into the night air, the red saree catching the glow of the overhead lights.

Rahul and Ishani stepped into the grand hall, which was already teeming with guests.

The air was thick with the hum of laughter and the clinking of glasses.

As they stood near a quiet corner, trying to take it all in, Deepak and Deeksha arrived, looking perfectly poised and elegant.

Ishani's eyes lit up the moment she saw them. "Oh my God, Deeksha! You look absolutely stunning," she exclaimed, her gaze admiring the black gown that fit her perfectly.

Deeksha smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling. "You're too kind, Di. Honestly, you look even more radiant than I do tonight."

Ishani offering modest smile, and the two women instantly fell into an easy, animated conversation. While they caught up, Deepak stood by, watching Rahul.

He noticed how Rahul seemed entirely disconnected from the noisy crowd, his entire world narrowing down to Ishani.

It was as if she were the only person in the room.

Amused by his friend's intense gaze, Deepak stepped forward and snapped his fingers right in front of Rahul's face.

Rahul blinked, startled out of his trance, and finally looked at Deepak.

Deepak chuckled, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "Lost in another world, are you?" he teased, before leaning in to ask, "By the way, where is Bhavya? Has she arrived yet?"

Rahul felt a sudden wave of embarrassment wash over him. Clearing his throat, he said, "I'll call her and check where she is."

Deepak just laughed. "Sure, go ahead."

Rahul walked a few paces away and dialed Bhavya's number. "Where are you?" he asked as soon as she picked up.

"I'm already here," Bhavya replied calmly.

"Where? At the bar?" Rahul scanned the room and finally spotted her. He marched over, his brows furrowed. "Starting the drinks already? Isn't it a bit early?"

Bhavya looked at him, her expression unreadable. "Hmm, maybe. I suppose I need them my parents are here."

Rahul went rigid, his eyes widening in shock. "What? They're here? Where?"

Bhavya gestured toward a group near the host. "Look, they're standing with the DGP sir, talking."

Rahul's gaze followed hers, and a surge of anger flared within him at the sight of them. His jaw tightened instantly. "Why the hell did they come all the way to Delhi?"

Bhavya let out a hollow laugh. "They didn't come for me, Rahul. They came for their friend for the DGP sir."

Rahul's jaw remained clenched, his frustration palpable. "I'm staying right here with you. Is that clear?"

Bhavya looked up at him, her eyes tired and sad. "I'm fine, Rahul. You really should be with Ishani. You need to stop worrying about me so much."

"No," Rahul insisted, his voice firm. "Just because I'm with Ishani doesn't mean I'll ever abandon my duty as your friend."

Bhavya stared at him for a long, heavy moment before finally speaking, her voice barely a whisper. "Please... just go away. Leave me alone, Rahul. Our paths have diverged. I can't keep pretending this 'friendship' is okay anymore. It hurts too much being this close to you while everything else has changed."

Rahul stood frozen, his heart sinking as the weight of her words hit him.

"Bhavya," he breathed, his voice laced with pain and confusion, "why are you saying things like this?"

Tears welled up in Bhavya's eyes, her voice trembling with the weight of years of unspoken longing.

"It hurts, Rahul," she whispered, her gaze distant and pained. "Why do you keep caring for me like this? Please, just leave me alone to deal with my own life. Let me go."

Rahul stood frozen, the shock of her words hitting him harder than any physical blow.

"What do you mean 'let you go'?" he stammered, his pulse quickening. "Where are you even going?"

Bhavya looked away, wiping a stray

tear from her cheek. "Papa has arranged for my transfer to Mumbai. I'm moving there with them."

"Mumbai?" Rahul's voice was sharp with disbelief. "And you didn't even think it was important to tell me?"

Bhavya let out a soft, bitter laugh. "I'm telling you now, aren't I?"

"But how will you manage?" Rahul pressed, his voice thick with concern. "How will you live without me and Deepak? We've been together through everything every joy, every sorrow, every struggle for all these years. And now you're just going to leave like this, all alone?"

Bhavya looked at him, her expression hardening with a painful resolve. "I will manage, Rahul. I don't want to live here anymore. Before you were married, I used to feel like I had a right to your life, to your time... but that's not true anymore. That right belongs to Ishani now."

She paused, her voice cracking as she added, "You've been a wonderful friend, Rahul. Truly. But I can't bear this pain anymore. I can't keep pretending that this 'friendship' doesn't destroy me every single day."

Rahul stared at her, his throat tight, unable to find the words to bridge the widening chasm between them.

Rahul felt a heavy ache in his chest, the weight of confession hanging between them.

"I'm really sorry, Bhavya," he said, his voice soft and filled with regret. "I couldn't love you the way you wanted me to. But someday, someone will come along who will cherish you just as much as I love Ishani. Someone who will give you that kind of love."

Bhavya let out a faint, weary laugh, shaking her head. "I don't want anyone else's love, Rahul. I've realized that I'm happy on my own."

Rahul paused, respecting her choice, even though it pained him to hear it. "Okay. If that's what you need, then go. But promise me one thing if you ever face any problem, no matter how small, you will call me first. Promise?"

Bhavya looked into his eyes, seeing the genuine, friendly care that had always been there. A small, sad smile touched her lips. "Promise," she whispered.

Rahul's face softened into a faint, bittersweet smile. "I'm going to miss you, Bhavya."

Bhavya's eyes shimmered with unshed tears, but she held her ground, her voice steady. "I will miss you too, Rahul."

They embraced, a final, poignant farewell between two people who had shared a lifetime of memories.

Bhavya fought back her tears, forcing herself to be brave, but just as she pulled away, Ishani appeared.

She stood frozen, witnessing the hug and seeing the fresh trail of tears on Bhavya's cheeks. A strange, uncomfortable feeling settled in

Ishani's heart a mix of confusion and unexpected insecurity.

Sensing Ishani's presence, Bhavya quickly stepped back, wiping her face. "I... I'll be back," she murmured, giving Rahul a brief glance before turning away to compose herself.

Rahul stood there for a moment, then looked up and finally noticed Ishani. He composed his expression, though his eyes still held a lingering sadness. "Ishani? What are you doing here?Where is Deeksha?"

Ishani stayed where she was, her eyes

searching his. "Deeksha is with Deepak, so I came looking for you," she replied, her voice soft but guarded.

She paused, her gaze shifting toward the direction Bhavya had just left. "Rahul... what happened? Why was Bhavya crying?"

Rahul sighed, his expression heavy with a lingering sadness. "Bhavya is leaving, Ishani. She's been transferred to Mumbai."

Ishani felt a jolt of genuine shock. "Oh... I see. Then you should probably go to her, she might need you."

Rahul shook his head slowly. "No, she needs space right now. It's better this way."

Ishani nodded, though a quiet tension remained between them.

Just then, the DGP approached them, his presence commanding the space around him. "Rahul Pathak! It's been a long time, my boy. Good to see you."

Rahul immediately straightened his posture, snapping into his professional demeanor. "Happy wedding anniversary, sir," he said respectfully.

The DGP smiled. "Thank you, Rahul. How have you been? Everything alright?"

"Yes, sir. Everything is well," Rahul replied.

The DGP's eyes shifted, landing on Ishani. Curiosity piqued, he asked, "And who is this beautiful lady?"

Rahul stepped slightly closer to her, his tone proud and firm. "Sir, this is Ishani, my wife."

The DGP blinked in pure surprise. "What? When did you get married? I always assumed... well, I thought there was something between you and Bhavya."

Ishani stood there, feeling intensely awkward as the weight of the DGP's words settled over her. She kept her gaze low, listening intently.

Rahul didn't flinch. "No, sir. There was never anything more than friendship between us. This is my wife, Ishani Awasthi."

The DGP's expression softened, his surprise turning into a gracious smile. "Oh, I see. My apologies! Congratulations to you both on your wedding."

"Thank you, sir," Rahul replied, bowing his head slightly.

"Enjoy the party," the DGP said with a friendly nod before moving on to greet other guests.

Rahul looked at Ishani with concern. "Ishani, are you okay?"

Ishani forced a small smile and nodded. "Yes, I'm fine."

Rahul hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I'm sorry about what DGP sir said. Bhavya and I are just friends. There's nothing more between us."

Ishani looked at him calmly. "I know, Rahul."

A wave of relief washed over him. He smiled softly. "Good. For a moment, I thought you might have misunderstood."

Ishani shook her head. "No, Rahul. I know you."

The tension between them eased.

"Come on," Rahul said. "Would you like to eat something?"

"Hmm, yes," Ishani replied.

The two walked toward the dining area and quietly started eating. The atmosphere around them was lively, filled with laughter, music, and conversations.

A few moments later, everyone's attention shifted toward the stage.

"Hello, everyone!"

People turned toward the stage.

Standing near the microphone was Bhavya's father. A broad smile spread across his face as he looked at the guests.

DGP immediately smiled when he saw him.

The crowd chuckled.

Bhavya's father pointed at him dramatically. "See? This man still looks exactly the same. Twenty-five years have passed, but he still acts like he's the youngest officer in the department."

The guests burst into laughter.

DGP sir's wife covered her mouth, trying not to laugh.

Bhavya's father continued teasing him. "Do you all know? During our younger days, your DGP sir was famous for two things his discipline and his terrible dance moves."

The crowd laughed even harder.

DGP stood up immediately. "That's a lie!"

"Not a lie," Bhavya's father replied with a grin. "I have witnesses."

Everyone in the hall laughed.

Even DGP sir couldn't stop smiling.

Bhavya's father then became a little emotional.

"Jokes apart, my friend..." he said warmly. "Congratulations to you and bhabhi on your wedding anniversary. I've seen your journey for many years, and I pray that your happiness only grows stronger with time."

The hall is filled with applause.

DGP nodded gratefully.

"Thank you, my friend."

Meanwhile, Rahul watched the stage silently.

The cheerful smile on Bhavya's father's face didn't affect him at all. In fact, seeing the man standing there made Rahul uncomfortable.

His expression hardened slightly as he looked away.

Back on stage, Bhavya's father clapped his hands.

"Enough speeches! Today is a celebration. Music, please!"

The DJ immediately started a romantic song.

The guests cheered loudly.

DGP held his wife's hand himself and led her to the dance floor.

As the music played, the couple began dancing together.

The guests clapped and smiled while watching them.

Around them, the celebration continued with joy and laughter.

The music grew louder as colorful lights danced across the hall.

Standing near the center of the dance floor, DGP smiled at the guests.

"Come on, everyone!" he announced. "This dance floor isn't meant to stay empty. Couples, friends everyone, join in!"

The crowd cheered.

Deepak immediately held out his hand to Deeksha."Shall we?"

Deeksha smiled and nodded. "Of course."

The two walked onto the dance floor and soon became part of the growing crowd dancing to the music.

A little away from them, Rahul and Ishani stood quietly side by side, simply watching everyone enjoy themselves.

Just then, a familiar voice called out.

"Rahul."

Rahul felt an immediate tension in his chest he turned around, his posture stiffening. "Ji?" he said, his voice clipped and formal.

"How have you been, Rahul?" Bhavya's father asked, his tone neutral.

"I'm doing well," Rahul replied curtly.

Bhavya's father gave a small nod. "I heard you got married. Aren't you going to introduce me to your wife?"

Rahul reached out and took Ishani's hand, pulling her slightly closer. "This is my wife, Ishani."

Bhavya's father looked Ishani over, a faint, polite smile touching his lips. "She is a beautiful girl, Rahul. I wish you both a happy life together."

Rahul gave a respectful nod, keeping his expression guarded.

"Go on now," Bhavya's father urged, gesturing toward the floor. "Even your friend Deepak is out there dancing. You should join them."

"We're not really in the mood," Rahul declined firmly.

Bhavya's father then looked directly at Ishani, his eyes kind but searching. "Why don't you take him out there, beta? It's a wedding anniversary these are the moments that turn into memories."

Ishani looked up at Rahul, seeing the hesitation in his eyes, but she also felt the weight of the social expectation.

"Rahul, let's go," she whispered, giving his hand a gentle tug. "Let's just dance for a little while."

Rahul softened, unable to say no to her. "Okay," he agreed.

As they stepped onto the dance floor, Bhavya's father watched them go. He maintained a faint smile for the guests, but deep down, a heavy sadness settled in his heart.

He felt a sharp pang of regret for his own daughter, mourning the fact that a man as decent and steady as Rahul would never be a part of Bhavya's life.

......................................................................

As the music began to play, a soft, slow melody filling the hall, Rahul and Ishani gravitated toward each other.

Rahul placed his hand firmly on her waist, and he took her other hand in his, guiding her. Ishani rested her hand on his shoulder, her breath quickening instantly.

The warmth of his hand against her waist sent a jolt through her she couldn't quite comprehend the sudden intensity of the moment.

They began to sway, but Ishani found she couldn't meet his gaze. She kept her eyes cast downward and overwhelmed.

Every time he pulled her just a bit closer, she felt a wave of nerves, her hands turning cold.

Rahul, on the other hand, was on a different planet. His eyes were locked onto her face, tracking every movement, every flicker of hesitation.

He stepped into her space, closing the gap until she could feel his breath.

She stumbled slightly, and his grip tightened immediately.

His thumb brushed against her waist, a touch that felt way too possessive, like he was trying to stake a claim.

Ishani finally looked up, her heart hammering, and saw him inches away.

But this wasn't the Rahul she knew the one with the polite, friendly smile.

The look in his eyes was raw, hungry, and full of a desperate, burning desire that made her skin crawl.

It was the look of someone who had been holding everything in for too long, and now, he wasn't hiding it anymore.

He pulled her flush against his chest, his eyes searching hers for something that just wasn't there.

Ishani felt trapped. The weight of his love this heavy, suffocating intensity was too much for her to handle. She couldn't breathe under the pressure of his gaze.

Panicked, she gently but firmly pushed his hands off her and stepped back, rushing off the dance floor before he could say a word.

Rahul stood rooted to the spot, his hands still feeling the ghost of her touch on his waist.

He watched her retreat, the cold reality of the crowded room finally crashing back in on him. As the haze of his desire lifted, a wave of self-reproach hit him.

He cursed himself silently, feeling guilty for letting his emotions spiral out of control and for behaving so intensely in such a public space.

Rahul stood amidst the swirling crowd, his mind a chaotic storm of regret.

How was he supposed to face Ishani now? The intensity of the way he had looked at her the raw hunger he hadn't been able to mask must have terrified her.

He felt a deep, gnawing shame for having overwhelmed her in such a public setting.

He began to scan the room, his eyes darting through the sea of guests, searching for the red saree that now haunted his vision. But Ishani was nowhere to be found.

His frustration turned into a dull, aching desperation. He navigated his way to the bar, his movements heavy.

With a shaky hand, he grabbed a glass, then another, the burning liquid offering a temporary numbness he desperately craved.

Two, then three glasses disappeared in rapid succession, the alcohol beginning to blur the edges of his consciousness.

Yet, even as the room began to sway, his focus remained fixed on finding her.

He looked at every face, every woman with dark hair, every silhouette in the crowd. As the alcohol took a firmer hold, the lines between reality and his thoughts began to dissolve.

He blinked hard, rubbing his eyes, trying to clear his vision, but it was no use. Everywhere he turned, he saw her.

The woman standing by the pillar had Ishani's grace the one laughing near the entrance had her smile. Every person in the room seemed to shift and morph into her reflection.

He stood there, dazed and intoxicated, trapped in a hall of mirrors where every face was Ishani, and yet, none of them were the one he was truly looking for.

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