The dance comes to an end, Aarvi and Anshika, breathless and laughing, make their way back to where the men are standing. Aarviâs cheeks are flushed from the exertion, but thereâs a light in her eyes that Darshil hasnât seen before.
Anshika playfully nudges Aarvi towards Darshil, who catches her hand instinctively.
Looks like someone enjoyed the dance. Darshil, you shouldâve joined us! Anshika said with a teasing smile.
Aarvi blushes but tries to hide it, her hand still in Darshilâs, as she looks up at him.
It was fun. Iâm glad I joined. Aarvi said with a smile
Darshilâs heart skips a beat at the warmth in her voice. He tightens his hold on her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
Iâm glad you did too, Hazel. You were amazing out there. Darshil said
Aarvi blushes at his compliment, and for a moment, theyâre lost in each otherâs eyes, the world around them fading away.
Rakshit and Daksh exchange a look, smiling knowingly, before Rakshit clears his throat, breaking the moment.
Alright, lovebirds, how about we all grab some food before the next round of festivities? Iâm starving! Rakshit said with a teasing smile
Anshika laughs and loops her arm through Aarviâs.
Come on, Aarvi. Letâs make sure these guys donât eat everything before we get there. Anshika said
Aarvi giggles, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Anshika that she hadnât expected. She follows her new friend to the dining area, glancing back at Darshil, who gives her a reassuring smile.
The group gathers around a large table laden with a feast of Rajasthani delicacies. The conversation flows easily, with Daksh regaling everyone with amusing stories from their college days, making everyone, including Aarvi, burst into laughter.
As they eat, Darshil occasionally steals glances at Aarvi, who is engaged in lively conversation with Anshika and Rakshit. She seems more at ease than heâs ever seen her, and it fills him with a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, theyâre on the right path.
So, Aarvi, how are you finding Jaipur so far? I heard youâre quite the fan of the city. Daksh said
Aarvi smiles, feeling more confident in the company of her new friends.
Jaipur is beautiful. Iâve always wanted to visit, and now that Iâm here, itâs even better than I imagined. The history, the culture... itâs all so rich and vibrant. Aarvi said
Rakshit nods, pleased by her enthusiasm.
Jaipur has a way of capturing hearts. Iâm glad youâre enjoying it, Aarvi. And who knows, by the time you leave, you might even want to stay longer. Rakshit said
Aarvi glances at Darshil, her smile softening as she catches his eye.
Maybe..... Aarvi said with a smile
Darshilâs heart swells at her words, and he canât help but feel that thereâs a new beginning on the horizon for them.
As the night wears on, the group continues to laugh, dance, and enjoy the celebration. Aarvi and Anshika dance together again, their laughter ringing out as they spin and twirl in the courtyard. This time, Darshil watches Aarvi with a contented smile, feeling a sense of peace he hasnât known in a long time.
Heâs falling for her, more deeply than he ever thought possible, and seeing her happy, surrounded by friends and loved ones, makes him realise just how much he wants to be the reason for her smile.
As the final dance comes to an end, and the guests begin to retire for the night, Darshil walks over to Aarvi, offering her his arm.
Ready to go back? Darshil asked
Aarvi looks into his eyes for a moment. Aarvi nods, slipping her hand into the crook of his arm.
Yes.... Aarvi said
As they walk back to their room, side by side, Aarvi feels a warmth in her heartâa feeling sheâs still getting used to, but one sheâs starting to welcome.
_________________
The next two days pass in a blur of activity. While Darshil, Rakshit, and Daksh immerse themselves in business meetings and negotiations, the palace continues to buzz with life. The grand rooms and sprawling courtyards see a different kind of hustleâone filled with laughter, storytelling, and the quiet moments that only women share.
In one of the palaceâs elegant conference rooms, Darshil, Rakshit, and Daksh sit around a large table, surrounded by documents, laptops, and cups of chai. The mood is serious but collaborative as they discuss the finer details of their upcoming business venture.
The merger looks promising, but we need to ensure that the transition is smooth. The cultural differences between our companies could be a challenge. Rakshit said while looking at the documents.
Agreed. We need to establish a clear communication strategy. Darshil, any thoughts? Daksh asked
I think we should involve local leaders from both sides in the initial meetings. Itâll help ease the integration process. Plus, itâll show our commitment to respecting each otherâs corporate cultures. Darshil said thoughtfully
The discussion continues, with the three men bouncing ideas off each other, their bond as old friends evident in the way they collaborate. Despite the serious nature of their work, thereâs an ease to their interactions, a testament to the trust and camaraderie theyâve built over the years.
While the men are busy with their business dealings, Aarvi spends her time exploring the palace with Anshika and Rajmata. The day is filled with laughter, storytelling, and bonding over shared experiences.
In the palace garden, Rajmata and Aarvi sit on a stone bench, enjoying the cool breeze and the fragrance of blooming flowers. Anshika is nearby, plucking a few blossoms to weave into a garland.
Itâs been wonderful having you here, Aarvi. Youâve brought so much joy to the palace. Rajmata said
Aarvi smiles, feeling a deep sense of warmth and belonging.
Iâve enjoyed every moment, Rajmata. Itâs like a dream being here. Aarvi said
This is your home too, Aarvi. And youâre always welcome here, whenever you wish. Rajmata said
Aarviâs heart swells with gratitude. Over the past few days, sheâs grown close to Rajmata and Anshika, feeling more like a member of the family than a guest.
Later, Anshika leads Aarvi on a tour of the palace, showing her the ancient artifacts, the hidden corners, and the breathtaking views from the balconies.
You have to see the sunset from the west terrace, Aarvi. Itâs the most beautiful sight in the whole palace! Anshika said
Aarvi follows Anshika, their laughter echoing through the halls. As they reach the terrace, theyâre greeted by a breathtaking view of the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city.
It's..... Stunning. Aarvi said in awe
I knew youâd love it. Jaipur has a way of capturing your heart, doesnât it? Anshika said
Aarvi nods, her thoughts drifting to Darshil. Sheâs surprised at how much sheâs grown to care for him during their time here.
After a long day of meetings, Darshil finally returns to Aarviâs side. He finds her in the palaceâs grand library, curled up with a book, looking peaceful and content.
Hazel.... Darshil said
Aarvi looks up, a smile lighting up her face when she sees him.
You're back.... Aarvi said
Yes, how was your day? Darshil asked
Anshika and Rajmata kept me company. Itâs been a lovely day. Aarvi said
Iâm glad. Youâve settled in so well here. It feels like youâve always belonged. Darshil said
Aarvi looks at him, her heart warming at the sincerity in his voice.
2 DAYS LATER :
The time in Jaipur passes quickly, and before they know it, itâs time for Darshil and arvi to return to Mumbai. The palace staff helps them with their luggage as they prepare to leave. Rajmata, Rakshit, Anshika, and Daksh gather to see them off.
Weâll miss you, Aarvi. The palace wonât be the same without your laughter. Rajmata said
Aarvi feels a lump in her throat as she hugs Rajmata tightly.
Iâll miss all of you too. Thank you for everything. Aarvi said
Anshika hugs Aarvi next, her eyes shining with unshed tears.
Come back soon, okay? We have so much more to explore together. Anshika said
I promise I will. Aarvi said
Rakshit claps Darshil on the back with a grin.
Take care, Darshil. And donât forget, our business isnât done yet. Weâll be seeing each other soon. Rakshit said , Darshil smirks
Looking forward to it, Rakshit. Thanks for everything. Darshil said
Finally, Daksh pulls Darshil into a bear hug.
Safe travels, buddy. And Aarvi, it was great meeting you. Weâll have to get together again soon in Mumbai.
Aarvi smiles, feeling a sense of warmth and belonging that she hadnât expected.
Iâd love that. Aarvi said
When are you returning to Mumbai? Darshil asked
I have a flight to New York tomorrow from here. So I'll return from there after a month. Daksh said
Okay then, see you there. Darshil said
With final goodbyes exchanged, Darshil and Aarvi make their way to the car that will take them to the airport. As they drive through the streets of Jaipur, Aarvi looks out the window, taking in the sights one last time.
Iâll miss this place. Aarvi said
Darshil reaches over, taking her hand in his.
Weâll come back, Aarvi. Whenever you want. Darshil said
Thank you for everything. Aarvi said
Darshil smiles at her, feeling a sense of peace and contentment.
They reach airport and takes their seats in the plane.
After, the flight landed, it was almost 5 p.m. when their car slides into Rajvanshi Mansion.
The evening air is cool as they arrive home, a place that has become a sanctuary for Aarvi. The familiar warmth of the house greets them as they step inside, where Nandini ji, Poorva and Ruhi eagerly await their return.
As soon as Aarvi and Darshil walks in the living room of the mansion, Ruhi runs to them in excitement and hugs Aarvi.
Chachi, I missed you. Ruhi said making Aarvi smile, she sits on her knee and kisses on Ruhi's cheek.
I missed you too Ruhi. Aarvi said
Nandini ji and Poorva also arrived there.
Aarvi and Darshil touched Nandini ji's feet and then hugged her.
I really missed you Darshil and Aarvi. Itâs so good to have you both back. The house felt so empty without you. Nandinj ji said
Dadi, don't say that. I missed all of you too. Aarvi said
get some rest both of you, freshen up. Then we will sit together and enjoy our evening tea. Nandini ji said
Okay dadi. Darshil said and then both of them walked to their room.
After sometimes, all of them sit together in the living room.
I hope Jaipur treated you both well? Nandini ji asked
Yes, Dadi. Jaipur was beautiful, I really enjoyed and loved the Royal family but itâs good to be back home.
Did you bring me anything from Jaipur, Chachu? And you too, Chachi? Ruhi asked
Darshil laughs and scoops Ruhi up in his arms, spinning her around.
Of course, we did! But youâll have to wait until after dinner. Darshil said
Ruhi pouts playfully, but thereâs no hiding her excitement. Aarvi watches the interaction with a soft smile, her heart swelling at the sight of Darshilâs playful side.
Did you see any elephants, Chachi? My teacher told me Jaipur has lots of them! Ruhi asked
We did, Ruhi. They were decorated with beautiful patterns and colors. Maybe one day we can all go there together. Aarvi said
Ruhiâs eyes light up at the idea, and she looks at Darshil for confirmation.
Can we, Chachu? Please? Ruhi asked
Yes we will, your chachu will definitely agree for the trip. Right? Aarvi said looking at Darshil.
Yeah, anything for both of you. Darshil said
Thank you chachi, I love you. Ruhi said
Aarvi hugs her and kissed on her cheek.
I love you too..... Aarvi said with a cute smile and Darshil couldn't take her eyes off her as her words echoed in his ears.
They all continued laughed and talked for a long time.
After the evening tea, Aarvi walks in her room to have some rest.
Aarvi was sitting on the couch and was talking on phone when Darshil arrived there and sat on the bed. He picked up the book, Aarvi had kept there with the tittle "King of Wrath". He reads the page in which Aarvi had put a bookmark. His eye widened as he reads it, he then looks at her. As Aarvi hung up the call, she looked at Darshil who was still looking at her with same surprised expression.
What? Aarvi asked
Does the tittle suit this book? Darshil asked her showing the book.
Aarvi's eyes widen, as she stood up.
Why did you read it? Give it to me back..... Aarvi said and tried to grab the book from his hand but Darshil pulled the book back.
You really read all this? Darshil said with a smirk.
It's none of your business.... Give it back to me. Aarvi said, while attempting to snatch the book.
Okay, I'll give it back to you, just tell me..... But first you have to tell me the story of this book. Darshil said
What?? No, I can't..... And, reading is not your interest. Aarvi said
But, this one page makes it interesting. Darshil said with a cocky smile.
Give it back, or..... Aarvi said but paused and again attempted to grab the book.
OR!!!!! What Hazel? C'mon Hazel, tell me the story so that we can recreate your favorite scenes. Darshil said and Aarvi stopped for a moment
No.... I don't want to recreate anything. Aarvi said and snatched the book. She then ran to the dressing room and locked the door.
Darshil laughs off.
After sometimes, Darshil and Aarvi walks into the dining hall.
The dining table is set with a variety of dishes, all of Aarviâs favorites. As they take their seats, Aarvi canât help but notice how much effort the family has put into making her feel welcome. She looks at Darshil, who is already watching her with a mixture of love and something more intenseâobsession.
So, Aarvi, tell us more about your trip. What was your favorite part? Nandini ji said
Darshil's mind quickly shifted towards the kiss and he smirks.
Aarvi glances at Darshil, who was already looking at her with a smile and an soft look.
The palace was incredible, dadi. It was like stepping into a different era. And the people⦠they were so kind. Anshika and Rajmata made me feel so welcome. Aarvi said with a smile.
Iâm glad to hear that. You deserve all the kindness, beta. Nandini ji said
Iâm so happy youâre a part of our family, Aarvi. Youâve brought so much joy into our lives. Poorva said with a smile.
Aarvi smiles, her heart warming at the words. Aarvi said
And weâre all happy to have you here too, beta. Especially Darshil. Right, Darshil? Nandini ji said
Of course, Dadi. She is the best thing thatâs ever happened to me. Darshil said in a low voice, fixing his gaze on Aarvi.
As they finish dinner, Darshilâs family continues to engage Aarvi in conversation, making her feel like she truly belongs.
After the dinner, both of them walks back into the room. Aarvi walks into the washroom to change into nightwear.
Darshil took the opportunity to change into his own nightwear while Aarvi was in the bathroom. By the time she came out in a trouser and tshirt, he was already lying on the bed, only wearing a pair of pajama pants while the upper part of his body was bare. He was lying on his side, one arm supporting his head as looked up at you with a somewhat cocky smile on his face.
Aarvi's eyes widen in surprise as she saw his bare chest and couldn't took her eyes off him for a moment but then she covered her eyes quickly and closed her eyes and looked away. Have some shame..... Where is your t shirt. Aarvi asked, her eyes still closed
Darshil let out a scoff and rolled his eyes, an amused smirk on his face as he spoke.
Why should I be ashamed, Hazel? This is literally my own bedroom. Iâm allowed to be shirtless in here.
Shut up and wear something. Aarvi said.
He let out a small laugh, finding her reactions almost adorable. He sat up on the bed, his smirk never leaving his face as he spoke in an almost mocking tone.
Why? Got a problem with the way I look, Hazel? Hot or sexy? Not a fan of seeing my chest, Hazel? Darshil asked with a smile.
Aarvi turned to him and sat on the bed, her eyes still closed
You are literally shameless. Aarvi said
Darshil smirked and raised an eyebrow, speaking in a mocking tone as he saw her sit on the bed, her eyes still closed.
Oh, yes, Iâm so very shameless for just laying here with my shirt offâ¦how dare I, a married man, be so shameless as to be partially naked around my own wife. Darshil taunts looking at her.
I really hate you..... Aarvi said, completely frowned out.
Iâm very aware of how much you hate me, Hazel. Youâve made it very clear how much you disdain me and hate me, but Iâm still your husband nonetheless⦠Darshil said with a smirk
He sat up and moved a bit closer to her, his chest inches away from touching her shoulder.
Aarvi looks at him and her gaze drifted to his chest and the tatoo..... She wanted to look away or close her eyes, but she didn't got the grips on her mind.
Darshil chuckles as he saw her take a look at his bare chest. He noticed she couldnât take your eyes off of him, a small sense of satisfaction growing within him.
Oh? Canât keep your eyes off my bare chest now, can you, Hazel? Darshil said
Aarvi looks away.
I was just looking at the tattoo. Aarvi said
Really? You sure you werenât eyeing my chest, huh? You sure you just werenât staring at how muscular my chest is? Darshil asked
No, and now shut up and wear something. And why the hell are you laying without tshirt? Aarvi asked
That's my business. Now I will wear the tshirt..... Only on one condition. Darshil said
What is that? Aarvi asked
You will tell me the story of that book, "King of Wrath" in detail. Darshil said
Can't you read yourself? Aarvi asked
No, I will listen to you while you will be reading. Darshil said
No..... I won't. Aarvi said
Okay, then I won't wear any tshirt and I will sleep next to you. Darshil said
Aarvi looks at him in frustration.....
Okay, I will tell you the story. Now go. Aarvi said
Darshil laughs off and walks to his dressing room.
*********
So guys, that's all for today.
Vote, comment and share.
As English is not my first language so there can be some grammatical mistakes, I just request to please ignore it.
Thankyouð¥