It was late, and Poorva was sitting on her study table, working on the laptop in her room, but her mind drifting between thoughts of Shiv and their recent, precious moments together. She was lost in thought when her phone buzzed.
Opening it, she froze as she read Shivâs message:
"Poorva, I donât want to be your boyfriend anymore. I need to see you one last time. Meet me in your garden."
Poorvaâs heart sank. The words left her stunned, a whirlwind of emotions racing through her. Why now? Why this sudden change? Without a second thought, she grabbed a shawl and rushed downstairs, her pulse pounding as she opened the back door to her garden.
Stepping outside, she was greeted by a breathtaking sightâher garden was filled with twinkling fairy lights, delicate flowers arranged everywhere, and an ethereal glow illuminated the whole space. Poorvaâs eyes widened in astonishment, her initial panic slowly replaced by a mix of wonder and confusion. And then, she saw himâShiv, standing in the middle of it all, holding a bouquet of red roses.
Shiv stepped forward, his eyes soft and filled with warmth, as he handed her the bouquet.
Shiv⦠what is this? I thought⦠I thought you wanted to break up. Poorva said
Poorva, I donât want to be just your boyfriend anymore⦠because that isnât enough for me. Shiv said, his voice calm yet filled with intensity.
Poorvaâs breath caught in her throat, his words slowly sinking in as the weight of his message dawned on her.
Shiv⦠what are you saying? Poorva whispered, her voice barely audible.
Shiv took her hands, his gaze unwavering as he continued.
I want to be the man you wake up next to every morning, the one who stands by your side through everything, who calls you mine in every way...... I want to be your husband, Poorva. Shiv said, his eyes fixed on her, his voice firm and filled with love and intensity
Before Poorva could fully process his words, a few quiet claps echoed from behind her. She turned, startled, to see her family stepping out of the shadows.
She turns to see Nandini ji, Darshil, and Aarvi standing at the entrance of the garden, beaming with joy and encouragement. They stood there, watching, encouraging her, their eyes filled with excitement and love.
Poorva looked back at Shiv, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.
You⦠you planned all this? Poorva asked, her voice trembling.
I wanted this moment to be perfect because you deserve nothing less. Shiv said with a smile
Then, slowly, he knelt down on one knee, pulling out a small, elegant ring box from his pocket. Opening it, he held it up to her, revealing a beautiful diamond ring that sparkled under the lights.
Poorva....Will you marry me? Will you be mine forever? Shiv asked
Poorva gasps, her eyes filling with tears. At that moment, everyone cheered up from behind and clapped as Poorva's teary eyes fixed on Shiv's.
Go on, Poorva. This boy has been devoted to you for years. Say yes already, before he thinks twice! Nandini ji said
Poorva, heâs a wonderful person. You deserve someone who loves you as much as he does. Aarvi said with a smile
Heâs got my blessing, Poorva. Iâd trust him with your happiness. Darshil said and Poorva once looked at all of her family, the moment felt so overwhelming.
Poorvaâs heart races as she looks back at Shiv, her face breaking into a smile despite the tears streaming down her cheeks.
Yes, Shiv⦠Yes! Iâll marry you. Poorva said with a smile through her tears
Shivâs face lights up with relief and happiness as he gently slips the ring onto her finger, then stands up, pulling her into a warm embrace. Poorva wraps her arms around him, resting her head on his shoulder, feeling a mixture of joy and disbelief.
Nandini ji, Darshil, and Aarvi approach them, each with warm words and blessings. Nandini ji places her hands on both of their heads.
May you both find endless happiness together. Poorva, youâve found a gem. Nandini ji said with a smile
Take good care of her, Shiv. Sheâs one of the most precious people in my life. Darshil said with a smile as he places a hand on blessing on Poorva's head
Congratulations, Poorva. Youâve found someone who loves you truly, just like a dream come true. Aarvi said with a bright smile and Poorva hugs her
Thank you, Shiv, for being my friend, for waiting all these years, and for being⦠my everything. Poorva said
As everyone celebrated around them, Shiv pulled Poorva close once more, his forehead resting gently against hers.
This is only the beginning. From here on out, weâre building our life together. Shiv murmured softly.
Thank you, Shiv, for being my love, for waiting all these years, and for being⦠my everything. Poorva said
Thank you for being my forever, Poorva. Shiv said
After that, everyone walks in the house back, Darshil carefully walking beside Aarvi, his hand on her back. On the other hand, Shiv walked hand in hand with Poorva.
The dining room is lit warmly, with the table set for dinner. Family members are gathered around, laughing and talking, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy. Aarvi, still recovering, is seated comfortably at the table with Darshil by her side. The scent of homemade food fills the room as everyone settles in to eat.
Shiv has joined the family for dinner, and Poorva sits across from him, her smile subtle but genuine. Thereâs a feeling of togetherness and relief, as they are finally able to come together after everything thatâs happened.
So, Darshil, how many times are you going to feed me tonight? Aarvi asked with a teasing smile as Darshil feeds her a spoonful of food
Until you tell me youâve had enough. Iâm not letting you go hungry again. Darshil said with a smile
He places another spoonful of rice into her mouth before she says anything else, his eyes soft with concern. Aarvi looks up at him, a gentle smile tugging at her lips. She watches him lovingly, appreciating his tenderness.
Youâre going to spoil me, you know that? Aarvi said
Itâs my job. Youâve been through enough, Hazel. Iâm not taking chances with your health. Darshil said as he grins and continues feeding her
The rest of the family watches them with a mix of affection and amusement. Poorva leans forward, trying to hide her smile as she watches her brother take care of Aarvi. Shiv, on the other hand, quietly enjoys the scene, his gaze shifting between the two.
Well, looks like Darshilâs on full-time care duty. You might have some competition for the 'Perfect Partner title'. Poorva said with a teasing smile as she looks at Shiv
I can compete with that level of devotion. But yes, I have to admit , Darshilâs got it down to an art. Shiv said as he laughed softly
Poorva laughs, but thereâs a soft admiration in her voice as she looks at Darshil and Aarvi. The atmosphere lightens, and everyone continues eating, but the mood shifts slightly as Nandini ji, who had been quiet, clears her throat.
Iâve been thinking about something important. Nandini ji said with a smile
The room falls silent, and everyone turns their attention to her. Nandini ji is known for her wisdom, and her words always carry weight. She looks at Poorva and Shiv, her eyes softening as she speaks.
You both have been through so much, but I think itâs time to start thinking about the future. As Shiv has proposed Poorva .⦠Itâs time we talk about the wedding. Nandini ji said
Everyone in the room exchanges surprised glances, and Poorva looks both embarrassed and touched. Shiv, too, seems to be caught off guard, his eyes flicking to Poorva before returning to Dadi.
Tomorrow, Iâll be going to meet Pandit ji to discuss the details for Shiv and Poorvaâs wedding. Nandini ji said with a smile
The announcement causes a flurry of joy and excitement around the table. Ruhi immediately claps her hands, and Darshilâs face lights up with happiness, though he is also visibly proud of Shiv.
Oh my God! Finally! Shiv Uncle, bua, youâre going to be married! Yay! Ruhi said excitedly
Everyone laughs as Ruhi rushes to Poorva, giving her a hug. Even Aarvi, who is still healing, joins in the celebration.
Well, well⦠Iâm glad to see this day finally coming. Poorva, youâve managed to tie down this tough guy. Aarvi said
Tough? I think sheâs the one who finally gave in after all my persistence. Shiv said
Poorva chuckles, turning a little shy, but sheâs obviously happy. Nandini smiles at them both, her eyes filled with pride and love.
I think itâs time we start getting things in motion. Weâve waited for this moment long enough. Letâs make sure everything goes smoothly for Shiv and Poorva. Iâm sure Pandit ji will help us with the auspicious dates and all. Nandini ji said
Darshil looks at Poorva and Shiv with a warm smile. He turns to Aarvi, his voice soft but filled with emotion.
Now....Shiv, make sure to take care of my little sister. Darshil said
She is my first and only priority. Shiv said with a smile
After everything theyâve been through, itâs their time to shine. Aarvi said
Yes....and I want you to smile too , so eat properly, Mrs. Rajvanshi. Darshil said and feeds her another spoon full of food.
Well, someoneâs got to keep Darshil from turning into a complete... overprotective husband. I mean, come on, the guy would never leave her side if he could. Shiv said with a teasing smile
Darshil, whoâs carefully feeding Aarvi her dinner, chuckles at Shivâs teasing but then looks at her with soft, caring eyes.
Here, one more bite. You need to eat more so you get better quickly. Darshil said
Aarvi takes the bite, but she looks at Darshil with a playful smile.
Please Darshil, I am full and Iâm not that fragile. Aarvi said
No, youâre not fragile. But Iâm not taking any chances. Iâve been without you for far too long, and Iâm never going to let that happen again. Darshil said
Darshil.... I am glad, you have turned so soft for your love now. Nandini ji said
She deserves it. Darshil said looking at Aarvi with a smile.
ð«ð«ð«
As the night took off, the bedroom was softly lit, creating a cozy ambiance. Aarvi, dressed in her nightwear, is sitting on the bed, fluffing her pillow and adjusting her blanket. She glances up just as Darshil steps out of the washroom, also in his nightwear. He runs a towel through his hair, his eyes immediately drifting to her with a gentle concern.
How are you feeling? Any discomfort? Pain? Darshil asked as he sits beside her
Iâm alright, Darshil. You've been checking on me every hourâI feel better just seeing you relax. Aarvi said with a smile
Canât help it. Seeing you like that⦠itâs something I never want to experience again. I just need to make sure you're really okay. Darshil said
Aarvi reaches over and gently takes his hand, squeezing it.
I know. And I appreciate it more than you can imagine. Aarvi said with a smile
They sit in a comfortable silence for a moment. Then Aarvi glances at him, a thoughtful look in her eyes.
Darshil⦠as we are talking about Shiv and Poorva's wedding. When will we talk to Shiv's parents? Aarvi asked
Hazel....Shiv don't have a family. Darshil said
What do you mean?? Aarvi said
Heâs an orphan. Heâs been on his own for as long as he can remember. No family to fall back on, no safety net. And yet, he's built himself up. Made himself indispensable, not just to me, but to everyone heâs helped. Darshil said
That must have been hard. Growing up alone⦠Aarvi said
It was. I met him in college during our graduation years. We were both ambitious, trying to carve out our own paths, and somehow⦠we just clicked. We became best friends almost instantly. And when I took over the company, Shiv was right by my side, ready to take on whatever challenge came our way. Darshil said
I have witnessed this myself. The way heâs always been there for you. Aarvi said
Yeah. Heâs more like family than a friend now. I couldnât have achieved what I have without him. And heâs proved himself time and again. No questions asked, no expectations⦠just pure loyalty. Darshil said
He is really a good man. Aarvi said with a smile
Well, in a way, he is. Heâs done so much, without ever asking for anything in return. Even with everything heâs been through, heâs still got the biggest heart. And now, seeing him with Poorva, I think heâs finally found something heâs longed forâfamily. Darshil said
I know he will make our Poorva happy. She will be really happy with him. Aarvi said
You know⦠Iâve been blessed, Aarvi. First Shiv, then you. I donât know what I did to deserve this. Darshil said
Well, maybe in another life you were a saint. Aarvi said teasingly
Me, a saint? I doubt that. But if it brought you into my life, Iâd gladly believe it. Darshil said
Hmm, maybe you should. Or at least try believing in the idea that you're worthy of good things too, Darshil. Aarvi said
Darshil looks at her, his eyes softening.
You're right, now I beleive in everything you say. Darshil said
Aarvi nods, resting her head lightly against his shoulder.
Yes, you should. Because youâre worthy of all of it. Aarvi said as she closed her eyes.
It was afternoon time, the sun filter through the curtains making the room filled with soft glow. Aarvi is lying comfortably on her bed, a novel in her hands, enjoying a quiet afternoon. She flips a page, deeply engrossed in the story, when thereâs a soft knock at the door. Aarvi glances up to see a maid standing there, looking somewhat hesitant.
Maâam, sorry to disturb you, but⦠thereâs a lawyer here who wishes to speak with you. He says itâs urgent. The maid said
Aarvi raises an eyebrow, slightly confused.
A lawyer? Urgent? Did he give you his name? Aarvi asked
Yes, maâam. He said his name is Avinash Mukherjee. The maid said
Aarviâs confusion deepens. She tries to recall the name but nothing clicks.
Avinash Mukherjee⦠Iâve never heard of him. Alright, thank you. Please ask him to wait in the living room. Iâll see if Darshil knows him. Aarvi said
Maid nods and leaves, and Aarvi immediately grabs her phone, dialing Darshilâs number. He answers within a few rings.
Yes Hazel, are you okay? Is everything alright? Darshil asked
I am fine, Darshil. Well, thereâs a lawyer here⦠says his name is Avinash Mukherjee. Heâs asking to meet me urgently, but I have no idea who he is. Have you sent him? Aarvi said
Avinash Mukherjee? I didnât send anyone to meet you today, especially not a lawyer. Darshil said
Aarviâs grip on the phone tightens slightly.
So⦠you have no idea who he is either? Aarvi asked
No. Hazel, listen to me carefully. Donât meet him until I get there. Heâs a stranger, and we canât take any risks. Iâll be home within 10 minutes. Donât worry, okay? Darshil said
Alright, Darshil. Iâll wait for you. Iâll tell the maid to let him know he needs to wait a bit longer. Aarvi said
Good. Iâll be right there. Darshil said
Aarvi hangs up and takes a deep breath. Something about this visit feels unsettling, but she trusts Darshilâs judgment.
Darshil walks through the door, his expression sharp and alert. He immediately scans the room and spots the man in a crisp suit sitting calmly, waiting. Darshil approaches him.
Mr. Mukherjee, Iâm Darshil. You wanted to see my wife, Aarvi. May I ask what this is about? Darshil asked
Avinash Mukherjee stands up, adjusting his glasses with a calm, knowing smile.
Ah, Mr. Darshil. A pleasure to finally meet you. Iâm here on behalf of someone who entrusted me with an important matter regarding Mrs. Aarvi. Avinash Said
Darshil narrows his eyes, immediately on guard.
Iâd appreciate it if youâd be a bit more specific. My wife doesnât seem to recognize your name. Darshil said
I wouldnât expect her to. But I assure you, Iâm here for a reason that concerns her directly. Avinash said
Darshil studies the man for a moment before motioning toward his study.
Avinash nods, and Darshil leads him to the study. He then asks the maid to bring Aarvi in, who walks in a few moments later, her expression curious but cautious.
Aarvi enters and spots Avinash, who gives her a warm smile as if he knows her well. Aarvi feels a strange sense of familiarity but still canât place him.
Hello, Mr. Mukherjee. Iâm sorry, but⦠have we met before? Aarvi asked
Yes Mrs. Aarvi, we have met once or twice. But you were too young that time to remember that . Iâm here on behalf of⦠a very dear friend of your family and a lawyer too. Avinash said
Aarvi glances at Darshil, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension on her face.
Enough with the mystery. If youâre here on behalf of her family, Iâd suggest you get to the point. Darshil said
Avinash opens his briefcase, pulling out an envelope and handing it to Aarvi.
Of course. Forgive me for the suspense. This letter⦠was entrusted to me by someone who wanted you to have it at a very specific time. Avinash said
And who might that be? Aarvi asked taking the envelope
Your late father, Mr. Chauhan. Avinash said
Aarviâs breath catches, and she stares at Avinash, her heart racing.
**********
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