The early morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow in the room. Aarvi slowly stirred in Darshilâs arms, feeling the warmth of his body against hers. Her head rested on his chest, and she could hear the steady, calm rhythm of his heartbeat, the same sound that had soothed her to sleep the night before. She blinked her eyes open, only to realize that Darshil had slept the entire night in the same position, holding her for her comfort. Her gaze shifted to his face, and for a moment, she was captivated by how peaceful and serene he looked while sleeping, his usual intensity replaced by a calmness that she rarely saw.
She admired his featuresâthe sharp jawline, the slight curve of his lips, and the way his chest rose and fell with each breath. Her heart fluttered at the sight. But just as she noticed him beginning to stir, Aarvi quickly shut her eyes again, pretending to sleep. She didnât want him to catch her staring so intently. She shifted her head slightly, resting more comfortably on his chest.
Darshil opened his eyes slowly, blinking a few times as he felt Aarviâs soft weight against him. A slow smile spread across his lips as he saw her nestled into his chest, her breathing even, her face serene. He reached out gently, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, his touch feather-light.
You look so beautiful like this... peaceful, like an angel. Darshil whispered softly
Aarvi, hearing his whispered words, felt her heart skip a beat, but she continued to feign sleep, savoring the closeness. However, her attempt at hiding was cut short when she tried to shift slightly, only to realize her hair was stuck in one of the buttons of Darshilâs shirt. She winced as the tugging caused a sharp pain in her scalp.
Darshil immediately noticed and frowned, his concern evident.
Wait... Hazel, donât move. Your hair is caught. Darshil said quickly while leaning down to check
Without hesitating, Darshil reached for the button, but instead of carefully trying to free her hair, he simply pulled the button off his shirt with a swift motion, breaking it to set her free. Aarvi stared at him, surprised by his bold action. Aarvi's eye widened as she looked at him in disbelief.
Darshil! You didnât have to break your shirt. I could have untangled it. Aarvi said
Your hair is more important than a button. I wasnât going to let it hurt you. Darshil said with a smile
Aarviâs heart warmed at his words, but she tried to hide the smile tugging at her lips. She sat up, adjusting herself, and finally looked at him properly.
But why did you make me sleep in that position? You shouldâve laid down properly and rested. Youâve just recovered, Darshil. Aarvi said, slightly scolding but with affection
Darshil chuckled softly, shaking his head.
You told me that my heartbeat calms you down, remember? You slept so peacefully with your head on my chest... I couldnât bring myself to move and disturb you. As long as you were comfortable, I didnât care about anything else. Darshil said while brushing a hand through her hair
Aarviâs cheeks flushed at his words, her heart swelling with affection, though she still struggled to fully admit it. She bit her lip, trying to mask her feelings, but the intensity of Darshilâs gaze made it hard for her to remain unaffected.
You didnât have to... but thank you. Aarvi said softly trying to change the subject
Darshil smiled, his eyes full of warmth as he responded.
For you, Hazel, Iâll always do whatever it takes to make you comfortable. Darshil said
Aarvi then stepped out of the bed.
So, your morning session of flirting is over? Aarvi asked
Do you think I can ever get enough of you? Darshil asked
Aarvi shook her head and turned to ho but Darshil grabbed her hand and pulled her close and his hands slid across her waist as he pulled her more close.
What? Aarvi asked
Are you okay? Is anything still bothering you? Darshil asked
"Tabiyat puchne ka ye kaun sa tarika hai?" Aarvi asked furiously
"Ye tarika nahi, mohobbat hai hamari"Â Is there anything wrong? Darshil said
No..... Everything is perfect. And I am fine, thanks to you. Get ready for work now. Aarvi said and gently pulled back.
After some time, Aarvi made her way downstairs to the breakfast table, still feeling a bit tired from the night before, but her heart was light. Darshil had already gone for his morning run, leaving the house peaceful.
As Aarvi approached the dining table, she found Nandini ji, Poorva, and little Ruhi already seated, sipping their tea. She greeted them with a smile and sat down, helping herself to some toast.
Good morning, beta. I trust you slept well? Nandini ji asked with a smile.
Aarvi nodded, though she could still feel a warmth in her cheeks remembering how Darshil had taken care of her the night before. She wasnât sure if anyone else had noticed how much attention heâd been giving her.
Yes dadi. Aarvi said softly
Nandini ji exchanged a glance with Poorva before focusing back on Aarvi, her eyes twinkling mischievously.
Well, Iâm glad. You know, you shouldâve seen how much Darshil worked last night in the kitchen, preparing soup and tea for you. I was worried heâd exhaust himself, but no one could stop him. Nandini ji said
Aarviâs hand froze on her teacup as her heart skipped a beat. She had fallen asleep not realizing just how much Darshil had done for her. The blush that crept up her cheeks was undeniable now, and she quickly looked down, trying to hide it.
He⦠he himself made all that? Aarvi asked shyly
Oh, yes! He wasnât just making soup. I think he practically became a chef overnight. He was so worried about you, Aarvi. The whole house could feel his restlessness. Poorva said
He even checked recipes on his phone, just to make sure the soup was perfect. The amount of care he put into itâ¦.I havenât seen him like that in a long time. Nandini ji said
Aarviâs heart swelled at the thought of Darshil going to such lengths for her. She bit her lip, trying to contain the emotions welling up inside her. The way Nandini ji spoke of him made her realize just how deeply he caredâsomething she already knew but had been afraid to fully acknowledge.
He didnât have to do all thatâ¦. Aarvi said in a low voice, almost to herself.
Oh, but he wanted to. He couldnât rest knowing you were in pain. The maids tried to stop him from overdoing it. Iâve never seen him so attentive, beta. Not even when he was sick himself. Nandini ji said with a smile
Poorva leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with amusement.
You shouldâve seen the way he was pacing the kitchen while the soup was simmering. I crossed once while he was in the kitchen. He couldnât sit still. Poorva said in a teasing tone.
Aarvi blushed even more deeply, her heart fluttering. She hadnât realized just how much Darshil had done for her while she rested peacefully all through the time.
Really? Aarvi whispered softly
Yes, beta. He was truly worried. His face was pale with concern. You shouldâve seen him when I told him to restâhe just wouldnât listen. It was like nothing else mattered except making sure you were comfortable. Nandini ji said
Heâs really something⦠Aarvi said, blushing, as she tried to change the topic.
Something? I think you mean amazing. Heâs head over heels for you, Aarvi and now itâs more obvious than ever. Poorva said
Aarvi bit her lip, her mind replaying the way Darshil had cared for her so tenderly. She couldnât deny it anymoreâthe way he looked at her, the way he put her first in everything. Even the small moments, like last night, made her feel like she was the center of his world.
Just then, the door clicked open, and Darshil entered, fresh from his run, his hair slightly damp with sweat. He shot Aarvi a warm smile as he approached the table, his eyes immediately softening when they met hers.
Good morning, everyone. What did I miss? Darshil asked casually
Aarviâs face turned an even deeper shade of red as she looked down at her plate, trying to compose herself. Poorva couldnât resist, giving Darshil a knowing look.
Oh, nothing much. Just telling Aarvi how hard you worked last nightâcooking up a storm in the kitchen. Poorva said
Darshil shot Poorva a playful glare but then turned his gaze to Aarvi. His expression softened, his voice laced with concern.
How are you feeling now? Any better? Darshil asked gently
Iâm feeling better, thanks to you. Aarvi said softly
Darshil smirked, leaning closer and lowering his voice so only she could hear.
Well, if you ever need more soup or tea, just let me know. Iâve got my kitchen skills down now. Darshil said
Aarvi couldnât help but laugh softly, shaking her head. But deep inside, she knew this was more than just playful banter. His actions spoke volumes, and she was starting to feel things she had been hiding for so long.
Alright, you two, enough with the secret conversations. Letâs have breakfast. Nandini ji said with a smile
After breakfast, Darshil left for work.
It was early evening when Poorvaâs phone rang, Shivâs name flashing on the screen. With a smile, she answered.
Hello Shiv! Poorva said with a smile
Be ready in an hour, I am picking you up. Shiv said, his voice came through, warm and commanding
Where are we going? Poorva asked leaned against her desk.
Thatâs a surprise. Just trust me. Shiv said softly
Okay. Poorva said
An hour later, as promised, Shivâs car pulled up outside her house. Poorva stepped out, looking elegant in a soft, pastel dress, but before she could ask him anything, Shiv walked around to open the car door for her, a bouquet of roses in his hand.
For you. Shiv said, offering the flowers with a soft smile.
Poorvaâs eyes lit up in surprise.
Wow these are beautiful! Whatâs all this for? Poorva exclaimed, taking them and inhaling their sweet fragrance.
Tonight, itâs all about making sure you feel special. Shiv said, his hand lightly touched her back, guiding her into the car.
The drive was quiet, but comfortable, with Shiv occasionally glancing at her, a small smile tugging at his lips. Soon, they arrived at a quaint, candlelit restaurant by a serene lake. Soft music played in the background, and the twinkling fairy lights added a magical glow to the place. Poorva looked around, her eyes widening at the sight.
You did all this? Poorva asked
Shiv nodded, holding out his hand to help her out of the car.
Only the best for you, my love. Shiv said
They walked hand-in-hand to a reserved table set with candles and rose petals. As Poorva sat down, Shiv pulled out her chair for her, taking care of every little detail like she was a princess. The attention and care left her feeling cherished in a way she hadn't experienced before.
It's beautiful..... Poorva said
A bit less than you. Shiv said with a smile making Poorva blush.
As the evening progressed, they talked, laughed, and enjoyed the food. But there was something in Shivâs eyes, something deeper, as he looked at her. Poorva sensed it, and the question that had been lingering in her mind finally surfaced.
Shiv, can I ask you something? Poorva asked, a bit hesitant
He leaned forward, his attention fully on her.
Anything. Shiv said
How long have you loved me? Poorva asked
The question hung in the air, and for a moment, Shiv said nothing, just gazing at her with those intense eyes of his. Then he smiledâa soft, almost nostalgic smile.
5 years, 2 months and 11 days. From the moment, I first saw you. Shiv said in a gentle voice filled with emotion
What??? 5 years? Shiv, youâve loved me since then? That long? Poorva asked in shock
Yeah, Poorva. You were walking out of Darshilâs house that day, in a yellow dress, all carefree and full of life, and something just clicked. I didnât know what it was then, but I knew you were different. Special. And from that day, there wasnât a moment you werenât on my mind. Shiv said
Poorva was speechless, her heart pounding at his confession. She had never imagined that Shiv had loved her all this time, quietly, without demanding anything in return.
Why didnât you ever say anything? Poorva asked
Because you werenât ready. You didnât see me that way, and I didnât want to push you. I thought⦠I thought it was enough just being around you, being close to you. But then, as time went on, it got harder to hide. Every time I see you smile, it used to sparkle something inside me and every time I saw you with someone else, it hurt like hell. Shiv said
Poorva swallowed, her heart heavy with the weight of his words.
Shiv I had no idea.... I am so sorry. Poorva said
Shiv shook his head, reaching across the table to take her hand.
Donât be. I never wanted to force anything on you. I wanted you to choose me because you felt it too, not because I was waiting. Shiv said
Poorva looked down at their hands, her fingers lightly tracing his.
But I do feel it. Now, I know. I love you, Shiv. Poorva said
His eyes brightened at her words, a smile spreading across his face.
Do you know how long Iâve waited to hear that? Shiv said softly.
Poorva smiled, feeling the truth of her own feelings settle in her heart.
I canât believe youâve been holding onto this for so long. Five years, Shiv. Thatâs a long time. Poorva said
Shiv chuckled, his thumb gently brushing over her knuckles.
Worth every second, though. If it means I get to be with you now, Iâd wait another five if I had to. Shiv said
Poorva shook her head, smiling.
You donât have to wait anymore. Poorva said
Shiv stood up, gently pulling her with him as they walked to the edge of the lake. The water shimmered in the moonlight, reflecting the quiet beauty of the evening. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close as they stood there, just enjoying the moment.
You know, Poorva, I used to imagine this, us being here, like this. I knew it would happen someday. Shiv whispered into her hair
Poorva looked up at him, her eyes shining.
And it has now. Poorva said
You look beautiful tonight, Poorva. Shiv said softly, his voice hushed, as if the moment itself was too delicate to disturb with anything louder.
I think tonight has been the most special evening of my life. Poorva whispered, stepping closer, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of his shirt.
Shivâs hand moved to gently cup her cheek, his thumb brushing her skin in soft circles. He leaned down, his lips inches from hers, the air between them charged with the anticipation of what was to come.
I can't tell you how much I love you, you mean the world to me. Shiv said, staring into her eyes.
In one fluid motion, he closed the distance between them, his lips capturing hers in a slow, tender kiss. It was soft at first, gentle and full of the affection he had held onto for years. Poorva responded immediately, melting into him, her hands finding their way to the back of his neck, pulling him closer.
As the kiss deepened, the intensity between them grew. Shivâs arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her flush against his chest, while Poorvaâs hands tangled in his hair, the world around them disappearing entirely. The only thing that mattered was the connection they were sharing in that moment, something both of them had longed for but never fully realized until now.
When they finally broke apart, breathless and flushed, Poorva looked up at him with wide, sparkling eyes.
Shiv.... Poorva whispered
Shiv pressed his forehead against hers, his hands still cradling her face.
Youâre mine now, Poorva. And Iâm never letting you go. Shiv said firmly, his voice laced with both possessiveness and love.
I wouldnât want it any other way. Poorva said with a smile
They stood there for a few more moments, wrapped in each otherâs arms, savoring the afterglow of the kiss and the overwhelming sense of belonging that had settled between them.
Later, as they drove back to her house, the warmth between them was undeniable. There was no more pretending, no more wonderingâeverything was clear now.
Tonight was perfect. Poorva said
It was, because I was with you. Shiv said with a smile
Poorva felt her heart swell, and before he could leave, she reached up to kiss him softly on the lips.
Good night. Poorva said
Goodnight, Poorva. Shiv whispered, watching her go inside
The soft afternoon sun filtered through the curtains as Aarvi sat on the couch with Ruhi beside her, the little girl playing with her dolls. Aarviâs gaze wandered to the window, her mind elsewhere. She was thinking about Darshilâhow much stronger he had become since the accident, how hard he worked to provide for his family, and how tender he had been with her, especially after the night when he took care of her and also for the next 3-4 days.
Tomorrow was Darshil's birthday, and Aarvi wanted to do something special for him. She had never celebrated his birthday before, and now that she was part of his life, she wanted to make it memorable. But she was unsure what he would like, considering how reserved he could be about certain things.
Just then, Nandini ji and Poorva entered the living room. Aarvi smiled warmly at them as they sat down across from her.
What happened Aarvi? You look lost? Nandini ji asked
I was thinking... Tomorrow is Darshilâs birthday. Maybe we can do something special for him? I thought we could plan a little surprise. Aarvi said
The moment the words left her mouth, Nandini ji and Poorvaâs expressions shifted. Their faces, which had been light and warm, suddenly darkened with sadness. Poorva exchanged a knowing glance with her mother, and Aarvi immediately sensed the heaviness in the air.
Aarvi.... Nandini ji said
What happened? Did I say something wrong? Aarvi asked
Poorva sighed deeply and shook her head, her eyes filled with the pain of a memory long buried but never forgotten. She sat down beside Aarvi, her voice low and sad.
Aarvi, Darshil bhai never celebrates his birthday⦠not anymore. Poorva said
Aarvi blinked, taken aback by the revelation. She had no idea. She knew about the tragedy that had struck their family years ago, but she hadnât connected it to his birthday.
But why? I know about the accident⦠I know it was around his birthday, but... Aarvi said in confusion
Nandini ji placed her hand on Aarviâs, her touch gentle yet filled with grief. Her eyes were distant, as if she were reliving the nightmare from years ago.
It wasnât just around his birthday, beta. The accident⦠it happened on the eve of his birthday, when they were also ready to surprise Darshil and they were on their way to meet him. Nandini ji said
Itâs been five years now. That day⦠we lost both our parents, Rishav bhai and his wife. It was supposed to be a happy day, but it turned into a nightmare. Poorva said
Aarviâs breath hitched as the full weight of their grief settled in her chest. She could barely imagine what Darshil must have gone through, losing his parents right before his birthday. No wonder he never wanted to celebrate it. How could anyone, when the day was forever linked with such immense loss?
I⦠I didnât know. Iâm so sorry. Aarvi said
Nandini ji gave her a sad smile, though her eyes were glistening with tears.
Darshil doesnât talk about it. Not to anyone. Not even us. Nandini ji said
Every year, on this day, he shuts down. He carries the weight of that loss, but he wonât let anyone help him with it. Poorva said
Aarvi felt a lump in her throat. She could suddenly see the layers of pain beneath Darshilâs strong, stoic exterior. He had carried this burden for years, alone, refusing to let anyone close enough to comfort him.
But⦠he shouldnât have to carry it alone. Maybe we can help him see that his birthday doesnât have to be a reminder of loss. It could be a day to celebrate the life he still has⦠the family he still has. Aarvi said
Nandini ji and Poorva exchanged a glance, surprised by Aarviâs words. Poorva hesitated before speaking.
Aarvi, itâs not that simple. Weâve tried. Every year, weâve tried to do something for him, but he always pulls away. He refuses to acknowledge his birthday as anything more than the day we lost our parents and brother, Ruhi also.... lost her parents. Poorva said
Nandini ji nodded, her face lined with the weight of years of grief.
He feels guilty⦠for surviving, I think. He doesnât believe he deserves to celebrate his life when our parents arenât here. Nandini ji said
Aarvi felt tears sting her eyes as she thought about Darshilâs unspoken pain, the guilt he carried for something that wasnât his fault. She had seen his strength, his resilience, but now she realized how deeply his wounds ran.
I canât imagine what heâs been through⦠but I donât want him to shut himself off from love. He deserves to feel joy again. Aarvi said
Nandini ji squeezed Aarviâs hand gently, a sad smile playing on her lips.
You care about him, donât you? Nandini ji asked
Aarvi hesitated, her cheeks flushing slightly, but she didnât shy away from the truth.
I do. More than I can explain. Aarvi said in a low voice
Poorva looked at Aarvi with newfound admiration, her expression softening.
Then maybe⦠maybe this year can be different. Maybe you can reach him in a way we couldnât. Poorva said
Aarvi smiled faintly, her heart heavy but determined. She knew it wouldnât be easy, but she was willing to try. She wanted to show Darshil that his life was worth celebrating, even in the shadow of his loss.
Iâll be gentle about it⦠I wonât push him. But Iâll make sure he knows heâs not alone anymore. Aarvi said
Nandini ji and Poorva exchanged a glance before nodding. There was hope in their eyes, though they knew the road ahead wouldnât be easy. Aarvi was the one person who had managed to break through Darshilâs walls, and perhaps, this time, she could help him heal in ways they couldnât.
As they sat together, the weight of the past hung in the air, but there was also a sense of hope. Aarvi knew she had a challenge ahead, but she was ready to face itâfor Darshil.
*********
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