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As soon as they stepped out of the restaurant, Amrit burst into laughter, her face lighting up with genuine amusement. Akshat shot her a narrowed glance, confused yet intrigued by her sudden outburst.

"Aapki shakal..." she managed between giggles, holding her stomach as she continued, "dekhne layak thi!" She laughed even harder, unable to control herself.

Akshat sighed, clearly not finding the situation amusing. "It's not funny," he muttered, walking ahead with an irritated expression.

Amrit caught up to him, still laughing. "Mujhe hi pata hai how I controlled my laugh when you were caught hiding under the table. Aur bahana kya banaya!! Joota saaf kar raha tha! Seriously?" she teased, her laughter growing louder with every word.

"Shut up!!" he snapped, though there was a trace of embarrassment in his voice. He kept walking, trying to hide his own smile.

Amrit paused for a moment, pressing her lips together to stop herself from laughing more. But within seconds, she couldn't help it and burst out laughing again. Her laughter was contagious, and though Akshat tried to remain serious, he found himself glancing at her.

She looked so carefree, so full of life. It had been so long since he had seen her like this—genuinely happy. The sound of her laughter echoed in the quiet street, and Akshat’s heart felt lighter. He had never seen her laugh like this in front of him before, only with her friends in the past. But now, after everything that had happened to her, seeing her so free, even for a moment, brought a wave of relief and joy to him.

As they walked down the road, Amrit suddenly stopped, pointing towards an amusement park brightly lit with colorful lights in the distance.

"Wo kya hai?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Akshat glanced at it and sighed, "Mandir hai."

She frowned, confused. "Mandir? Mandir nahi hai, wo toh amusement park hai," she said, tilting her head.

He looked at her with mild amusement. "Toh mujhse kyun puch rahi thi? If you want to visit there, just say it."

She bit her lip, fidgeting with the edge of her dupatta nervously. "Wo... mai bas... Aapko neend aa rahi hogi na," she said softly, hesitant about imposing her wish.

Akshat looked at her, slightly shaking his head with a small smile. "Chalo," he said, taking her wrist gently in his hand. Without waiting for her response, he led her toward the park, his smile widening as he saw the surprised look on her face.

They reached the ticket counter, and before she could protest, Akshat bought two tickets.

Amrit stared at the ticket in her hand, still a little in disbelief. "Hum sach me ja rahe hain?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Haan. Tumhe lagta hai maine yeh tickets maine kyun khareedi?" Akshat teased, as they stepped inside the park.

As they stepped into the amusement park, Amrit’s eyes sparkled with awe. She gazed around in wonder, taking in the vibrant lights, the colorful stalls, and the laughter of families around them. It was clear she had never been to an amusement park before, and her excitement was almost contagious.

He glanced around, relieved to see that the park wasn't too crowded. The fewer people around, the better he felt. "Thank God," he muttered under his breath, thankful for the peaceful atmosphere.

Just then, Amrit's eyes fell on a small stall selling artificial jewelry. Her eyes lit up as she noticed the colorful bangles and earrings on display.

"Akshat... wo uss stall pe kitni acchi jewelleries hain," she said, her excitement barely contained as she tugged at his sleeve, pointing toward the stall.

He looked in the direction she was pointing and saw the stall. He gave a small nod, acknowledging her interest but didn’t think much of it.

"Mai dekh sakti hun?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity, but also a hint of hesitation, as if seeking permission.

He rolled his eyes, amused at how she asked for his approval for every little thing. Without a word, he gently grabbed her wrist and led her toward the stall.

Amrit picked up a delicate silver bracelet from the stall, her eyes twinkling as she admired its design. "Can I buy this?" she asked, holding it up for Akshat to see. Her voice was soft, almost as if she was unsure if it was okay to make a purchase.

Without even glancing at the price, Akshat immediately gestured to the shopkeeper, "Bhaiya, pack this one." His tone was firm, leaving no room for negotiation.

As the shopkeeper began packing the bracelet, Akshat's attention drifted elsewhere, something catching his eye. Meanwhile, Amrit continued browsing, her fingers gently grazing over a pair of vibrant, intricate earrings.

"Look at these," she said, her voice filled with excitement. She held up the earrings toward him, expecting him to share in her joy.

"Hmm," Akshat hummed absentmindedly, still distracted, not really looking at what she was showing him.

Frustrated by his lack of attention, she waved the earrings in front of his face, "Dekhiye toh!" she insisted, demanding his focus.

Akshat blinked and finally looked at her properly, his gaze shifting from her face to the earrings. He smiled slightly, seeing how happy she was. "Acche hain," he admitted, though his smile was more for her than the jewelry.

"Can I buy them?" she asked, her eyes big and hopeful, and Akshat sighed softly, clearly amused by how she asked for permission for everything.

"Amrit, puchne ki zarurat nahi hai," he said, shaking his head lightly, "Just say it if you want something."

Her grin widened at his words, the simple joy of the moment making her heart flutter. "Thank you," she said softly, as she turned back to the shopkeeper and asked him to pack the earrings.

Amrit looked at more earrings, her mind racing with thoughts of the people she cared about. "Akshat... can I buy these earrings for Nandini di, Vidya, Preeti aunty, Kavya, and Anika didi?" she asked hesitantly, her voice soft. Then her eyes fell on a tiny pair. "And this one for Bulbul?" she added, her hopefulness shining through.

Akshat, distracted again, gave a quick response without thinking. "No," he said flatly.

Her face fell, disappointment washing over her as she gently put the earrings back. "Okk," she murmured, her voice tinged with sadness.

Akshat slapped his forehead in frustration. "Arrey yaar, just buy whatever and however you want! Tum bhi na, always doing these formalities," he said, shaking his head at her. "You know, I’ll actually feel good if you just buy something and then order me to pay for it with all rights," he added, giving her a meaningful look.

Amrit blinked, processing his words. She looked down, feeling a little silly for asking so timidly, but her heart warmed at his words. He wanted her to feel comfortable, to act like it was her right, not just a favor.

Gathering her courage, she picked up the earrings again, this time with more confidence. She selected pairs for each of the women and even chose a matching bracelet for Vidya.

The shopkeeper tallied up the total. "1000 rupees," he said.

Amrit turned to Akshat with a newfound sense of comfort. "Akshat, pay the bill," she said, her voice calm and assertive.

Akshat raised his eyebrow in surprise, but a proud smile spread across his face. He took out his wallet to pay, still smiling as Amrit walked past him, grinning widely. She had finally started feeling more at ease, and he couldn’t have been happier seeing her grow into her own confidence.

Amrit was walking ahead, still smiling, when suddenly she felt a gentle tug on her wrist. She stopped, turning to face Akshat, curiosity in her eyes. He stood there, a little hesitant, scratching the back of his neck as he fumbled with something in his hand.

"Ahmm... wo..." he muttered, looking away shyly before holding out a small packet. She saw inside: a delicate set of white glass bangles, shimmering softly in the dim light. They were simple yet elegant, with fine silver detailing along the edges, perfectly matching the soft glow of her white anarkali suit.

Amrit’s eyes widened as she took the packet, examining the bangles carefully. She touched them, feeling the cool glass under her fingers, the intricate work catching the light as she moved.

"It’s... it’s not a gift... I mean, I’ll buy something more expensive as a proper gift... these are just... I liked them for you," Akshat mumbled, still feeling awkward. He paused, then added with a hopeful smile, "Will you wear them now? They match your dress."

She looked up at him, her expression softening. Without saying a word, she handed the bangles back to him. Akshat sighed inwardly, the disappointment flickering in his eyes as he thought she didn’t like them. He was about to put them away when Amrit, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, extended her wrist.

"I can’t wear them, na... my other hand is busy," she teased, a soft smile playing on her lips.

Akshat’s face brightened instantly, a wide smile spreading across his features as he stepped closer. Carefully, he held her wrist, his fingers brushing against her skin, and began slipping the bangles onto her hand. The cool glass slid smoothly over her wrist, their soft jingling filling the air. Amrit felt a rush of warmth, her heart fluttering at his gentle touch.

Once the bangles were in place, Akshat didn’t let go. He stood there, holding her hand, admiring the way the white bangles contrasted against her dusky skin. The simplicity of the bangles complemented the soft, flowing fabric of her white anarkali.

Amrit glanced down at her wrist, her face lighting up with joy. "This is so beautiful, Akshat... mujhe pehle kyun nahi dikhaya?" she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you, thank you so much... this is more special than any other gift."

Akshat’s heart swelled seeing her so happy, the sincerity in her eyes filling him with pride. "You actually liked it?" he asked softly, still holding her hand.

"I loved it," she said, her voice warm and genuine. She moved her wrist, making the bangles jingle softly as she admired them, the sound adding to her excitement. Akshat stood there, smiling widely, knowing that his simple gesture had brought her so much happiness.

As they started walking forward, Amrit couldn’t stop admiring the bangles on her wrist. Every few steps, she would jingle them in front of Akshat’s face, giggling like a child who had just discovered a new toy. The sound of the glass bangles chiming mixed with her laughter, filling the air with a lighthearted joy. Akshat smiled to himself, shaking his head in amusement. He had never seen anyone so excited over something so simple, but the way she treasured his gift made his heart swell.

Suddenly, Amrit stopped and pointed ahead. "Akshat, paav bhaji!" she said, her eyes lighting up with excitement as she spotted a nearby stall.

"Nahi, Amrit," he groaned lightly. "Abhi hi itna heavy khaya hai. Tumhara pet bhar gaya hoga."

"Bahot din se nahi khaya," she said, pouting slightly, her lips forming a small frown that made her look irresistibly cute.

Akshat looked at her, his resolve weakening. "Kal kha lena," he said softly, trying to reason with her. "Mai ghar pe bana dunga. That’ll be more healthy, hmm?"

She sighed, but her disappointment didn’t last long as her eyes gleamed, spotting something else. "Accha... candy floss!" she said, pointing at a stall nearby. Before Akshat could say anything, she gave him a pleading look.

He chuckled, giving in easily this time. "Alright," he said and walked over to buy one.

She immediately added, "Do aur!" Her innocent yet insistent tone made Akshat laugh.

Without arguing, he bought two more candy floss sticks and handed them to her. Her happiness was infectious, and he couldn’t help but smile as she juggled the pink clouds of spun sugar.

But she wasn’t done yet. She looked ahead and pointed again, this time at a bunch of colorful gas balloons. "Wo bhi!" she said, her eyes sparkling as she gazed at the balloons floating in the air.

Akshat chuckled at her childlike enthusiasm. He went ahead and bought her a bright yellow balloon.

Amrit, thrilled with her collection of treats, handed him the two extra candy floss sticks and the packet of bangles, freeing up her hands to hold the balloon. She looked at him with a satisfied grin, holding the balloon in one hand and taking a bite of the candy floss in the other.

As they wandered through the amusement park, Akshat turned to Amrit with a playful glint in his eye. "Jhula jhulna hai?" he asked, his voice teasing.

She nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Yes! Which one?"

Without missing a beat, Amrit declared, "Ferries wheel!" Her joy was contagious, and Akshat couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm.

He took one ticket from the booth, but as he turned to her, she asked, "Aap nahi chaloge?" A hint of concern crossed her face.

He shrugged, trying to downplay it. "Tum jao na. I will stay here with these things," he said, motioning to the various items they had collected during their outing.

"But... thoda hi saman hai na, isko lekar baith sakte hain. Mujhe akele nahi jana," she replied, her voice softening as she looked down, her playful demeanor dimming a bit.

"Mera man nahi hai... you enjoy na. I am fine here. Tum jao," he insisted, hoping to reassure her.

Her expression fell further, and she replied quietly, "Mujhe nahi jana." The disappointment in her voice tugged at his heart.

"Amrit..." he started, but she didn’t look up, still upset.

Then, almost as if it were a secret he was revealing for the first time, he muttered, "Mai... kabhi gaya nahi hun."

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Toh iss baar chaliye na. Bahot maza aata hai, trust me," she encouraged, her tone brightening again, her eagerness palpable.

He sighed, feeling the weight of her anticipation. It was hard to resist her enthusiasm. "Alright, I will buy one more ticket," he relented, finally giving in to her excitement.

Her face lit up instantly, a radiant smile returning to her lips.

As the Ferris wheel began its ascent, Amrit settled next to Akshat, her excitement palpable. She clutched a fluffy pink candy floss, her eyes sparkling with delight. As the wheel started to turn, the gentle swaying made her giggle, and she couldn't resist offering Akshat a bite of her treat. She leaned closer, holding the candy floss in front of his mouth with a grin.

He smiled back, charmed by her playful nature, and took a bite, savouring the sugary sweetness.

As they climbed higher, the ground began to fall away beneath them. Amrit's excitement bubbled over, and she stood up in her seat, her arms raised as if to embrace the sky. Akshat’s eyes widened in alarm, and he quickly grabbed her hand, gently but firmly making her sit back down. "Are you crazy? Chup chap baitho na," he chided, his voice a mix of concern and amusement.

"Sorry," she replied, her voice sheepish, but her smile revealed her glee.

Akshat looked out at the view, momentarily distracted by the beautiful landscape stretching below them. The lights of the amusement park twinkled like stars, and the distant sounds of laughter and music created a vibrant atmosphere. "Yahan se sab kitna sundar hai," he said, his voice filled with awe as he gazed down at the illuminated park.

But Amrit wasn’t looking at the view; she was looking at him. Her heart fluttered as she admired the way his eyes lit up, filled with a childlike wonder that made him even more endearing. “Yahan se jyada sundar hai,” she whispered, her gaze fixed on him, the warmth in her voice hanging in the air.

Caught off guard, Akshat turned to her, his smile faltering slightly as their eyes met. For a brief moment, time seemed to stand still. But as he caught her gaze, she quickly looked away, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks, leaving Akshat in a state of wonder.

Amrit pulled out her phone, her excitement bubbling over as she switched to the front camera. She gently patted Akshat's shoulder, silently urging him to look at the camera. When he turned, surprise flickered across his face, and she quickly snapped the picture, capturing the moment.

“Give it to me,” he said, reaching for her phone, and for a fleeting moment, Amrit's heart raced at the thought that he might delete the photo.

“Acchi toh aayi hai,” she protested, her cheeks tinged with excitement as she admired the image.

“Do toh,” he replied, taking the phone from her grasp and positioning it in front of them. Just then, he leaned closer, wrapping his arm around her shoulders with a casual yet affectionate motion. His warmth enveloped her, and she felt a flutter in her chest as he rested his head against hers.

“Smile, Amrit,” he instructed, and she struggled to control her heartbeats, a mixture of nerves and exhilaration flooding through her. She forced a smile, and in that moment, everything else faded away. Akshat clicked the picture, the shutter sound echoing in the air, and when he pulled away, a wide grin broke across his face.

“It's pretty,” he said, admiring the photo before quickly sending it to himself.

Just as they were about to descend, the Ferris wheel picked up speed, and the world around them transformed into a blur of lights and colors. They both laughed, exhilarated by the rush of the ride.

“My hair! Rubber band bhi nahi laayi!” Amrit whined, her long locks flowing chaotically in the wind, strands whipping against her face and irritating her.

“Ye lo,” he said, surprising her as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a rubber band, holding it out toward her.

She looked at him, wide-eyed. “Aapke paas kya kar raha hai?” she asked, bewildered by his foresight.

“You always tie your hair after opening it every ten minutes. Toh mujhe laga you will need it,” he replied nonchalantly, his tone casual as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Amrit felt a warmth spread through her at his thoughtfulness, realising he paid attention to her little habits. Taking the rubber band from his hand, she quickly tied her hair up into a ponytail, glancing sideways at him. He was looking out at the surroundings, a serene expression on his face, unaware of the impact his gestures had on her.

As they stepped off the Ferris wheel, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. A throng of people surged around them, laughter and chatter filling the air as families, couples, and groups of friends mingled in vibrant clusters. The once peaceful surroundings transformed into a bustling sea of faces, with children darting between adults and vendors shouting out their wares. The sheer volume of noise and movement sent a wave of unease through Akshat.

He felt the crowd pressing in, the energy around him swelling and tightening like a vice. His breath hitched, and an unsettling tremor began to ripple through his hands. He fought to steady himself, but the more he tried to regain control, the faster his heart raced. Sweat trickled down his forehead, his shirt suddenly feeling too tight, as if the very fabric was constricting around him. The noise swelled, a cacophony of voices and laughter that felt like it was crashing over him.

Desperate to escape the chaos in his mind, Akshat closed his eyes, hoping to block out the overwhelming sights and sounds. But the darkness behind his eyelids only heightened his anxiety, each breath coming in short, uneven gasps. Panic clawed at his chest, and he felt trapped within the pulsating crowd.

“Akshat, wo dekhiye—” Amrit started, her voice bubbling with excitement, but then her words faltered, and she froze mid-sentence.

Concern washed over her face as she noticed him standing still, his features tense, eyes tightly shut. Her heart dropped as she took in the sight of him, the usually composed Akshat now seemingly consumed by panic.

“Akshat!” she called out, her tone laced with urgency, stepping closer to him as she reached out to place a reassuring hand on his arm.

“Akshat! Kya hua? Aap thik ho?” Amrit exclaimed, her voice laced with urgency as she rushed to his side. Panic surged through her as she placed one hand firmly on his shoulder, the other gently grasping his trembling hand. She could feel the intensity of his fear radiating through their connection, his fingers shaking as he struggled to regain control.

“I am lost… I am lost… I am lost…” he whispered, his voice barely audible, yet the repetition of those words pierced through Amrit’s heart like a cold blade. His eyes remained tightly shut, and she could see the turmoil etched across his face, panic washing over him like a relentless tide.

“Akshat!!” she said, her voice rising with concern as she cupped his face, forcing him to meet her gaze. But as he opened his eyes, the sheer panic in them intensified, and his knees buckled, threatening to collapse beneath him. He began to chant those words again, each repetition sending tremors through his body.

Without a second thought, she quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him close and pressing his face into the comforting curve of her neck. “Shh! It’s okay! You’re not lost… I’m right here,” she whispered urgently, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions inside her. She could feel his body trembling against hers, and she rubbed his back gently, trying to ground him in the safety of her embrace.

He continued to chant, “I am lost… I am lost…” as if the words were the only lifeline he could hold onto in that moment.

“Shhh! Sab thik hai… you are not lost… mai hun yahan,” she murmured softly, her breath warm against his ear. Instinctively, he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer, and for the first time, he didn’t stiffen at the physical contact. In that embrace, he felt a surge of safety, a refuge amid the chaos swirling in his mind.

“Mai kho jaunga,” he whispered, his voice trembling, laced with the fear that gripped him.

“Maine khone nahi dungi,” she whispered back, her words a vow of reassurance. She continued to rub his back soothingly, her fingers tangling gently in his hair, caressing him in a way that felt both tender and protective. The frantic cadence of his breathing gradually began to slow, his frantic thoughts quieting as he leaned into her warmth.

“Just breathe with me, Akshat,” she coaxed gently, feeling his body gradually relax in her arms. “Inhale… and exhale.

After a few moments, when his breathing had steadied, Amrit whispered, “Chaliye yahan se,” breaking the stillness, her voice a guiding light. She carefully took his hands, feeling the warmth return as he grasped hers, and slowly began leading him away from the crowd that had overwhelmed him.

They reached his car, the familiar sight offering a comfort amid the lingering chaos of the carnival. Amrit made him sit on a bench near a tea stall, the cool breeze brushing past them, but the tension in Akshat’s body was still palpable.

“Just a minute,” she said quickly, her voice laced with urgency. Without waiting for his response, she dashed toward a nearby stall. Akshat watched her go, the flicker of concern still etched on his face, as she navigated through the crowd, her determination evident in the way she moved.

Moments later, she returned, a cold bottle of water in hand. She knelt in front of him, her eyes filled with warmth and resolve. “Here,” she said softly, holding the bottle up to his lips, her presence a calming balm against the remnants of his panic.

Akshat looked at her, still feeling the residual tension knotting in his stomach, but the genuine concern in her eyes made him trust her completely. He took a sip of the cool water, the refreshing liquid soothing his parched throat and helping to steady his nerves a little. The chill of the bottle contrasted with the heat of the day, grounding him in that moment.

“Ab, take a deep breath,” Amrit instructed gently, her hand lightly caressing his back in soothing circles. The warmth of her touch radiated through him, her voice calm and steady, an anchor amidst the storm of his thoughts. “Inhale deeply… and exhale slowly,” she guided, her eyes never leaving his.

Akshat closed his eyes again, focusing on her touch, her calming presence enveloping him like a protective shield. He inhaled deeply, allowing the cool air to fill his lungs. With each breath, he felt the tightness in his chest begin to ease, the waves of anxiety gradually receding as he leaned into her comforting rhythm. For the first time in a long while, he felt her presence beside him, reassuring him that he wasn’t alone in facing his fears.

“Are you okay now?” she asked softly, concern lacing her voice as she searched his eyes for any lingering distress. But as he looked at her, he noticed her eyes were brimming with unshed tears, glimmering in the soft afternoon light.

“Why are you crying?” he asked gently, instinctively reaching out to wipe her tears with his thumb, his heart clenching at the sight of her distress.

“I was so scared,” she confessed, her voice trembling slightly. “Kya ho gaya tha aapko?” she asked, her brow furrowing as she sniffed and wiped her tears with the back of her hand, clearly shaken by the incident.

“Once, when I was four,” he began, his voice trembling slightly as he spoke, “my mother took me to a function. She wanted to show her friends that she is a great mother, to parade me around like a trophy. I was just a little kid, excited to be with her, not realising how much of a spectacle I was to her.” His gaze turned distant, as if he was peering into a foggy memory.

“She wanted to be the perfect mother infront of others,” he continued, his voice becoming quieter, more pained. “But after she was done impressing everyone , she… she left me. Just dropped me off in a corner, right in the middle of the crowd. It was overwhelming. People were everywhere, pushing and shoving, their laughter ringing like bells in my ears, drowning me in noise. I felt like I was suffocating in a sea of strangers.”

He clenched his fists tightly, his knuckles turning white as he recounted the painful memory. “I was searching for her, calling out for her, but it was like shouting into the void. No one heard me. The longer I stood there, the more invisible I felt, as if I were fading away, lost among the waves of people. The lights started to dim, and it became night… and still, there was no sign of her.”

His breath hitched at the recollection, and Amrit leaned closer, her heart aching for the little boy he once was. “I was scared,” he said, his voice breaking. “The fear wrapped around me like a cold blanket, suffocating me, squeezing the breath from my lungs. I thought I’d never see her again. I thought I was all alone in the world, forgotten like a lost toy.”

Amrit’s heart ached for him, and she reached out to squeeze his hand gently, silently urging him to continue.

“Eventually, my uncle found me,” Akshat continued, the pain still raw in his voice. “He searched the entire place, calling my name until he finally discovered me, a small figure trembling in the dark. But by then, the damage was done. The fear had taken root, and it was like a shadow that never left me. Since then, crowded places have felt like a prison—like I’m trapped in a room with no exit, and the walls are closing in around me. I can’t breathe, Amrit. I can’t think.”

He looked down, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. “That night was like being abandoned in a storm, lost at sea without a lifeboat. Every time I step into a crowd, it feels like I’m drowning all over again. My heart races, my breath quickens, and I can’t escape. I’m just that little boy again, standing alone in the dark, searching for my mother who never comes back.”

“Akshat,” she said, her voice steady and unwavering, “you’re not that little boy anymore. I will find you whenever you will get lost.”

Amrit glanced at Akshat as they settled into the car, her heart still heavy from the painful story he had just shared. The shock of his childhood experience left her shaken, unable to comprehend how any mother could abandon her own child in such a way. But she knew he needed peace right now, something to ground him after the panic he had endured.

She silently started the car, and with a soft click, switched on the radio, hoping the music might ease the lingering tension in the air. Almost as if on cue, a gentle melody filled the space between them.

"Tu iss tarah se meri zindagi me shamil hai..."

Amrit's lips curved into a faint smile, recognizing the song instantly. Her heart tugged as the lyrics seemed to echo the unspoken emotions swirling in the car. Without thinking, she began to hum softly, her voice carrying the words.

"Jahan bhi jaun ye lagta hai teri mehfil hai..."

Her gaze flickered to Akshat as she sang. He sat quietly, his profile illuminated by the fading light of the evening. The sadness that clung to him moments before seemed to ebb away as her voice filled the car.

"Yeh aasman, yeh badal Ye raastey,

ye hawa Har ek chiz hai

Apni jagah thikane pe..."

Kahin dino se shikayat Nahin zamane se..."

She couldn’t help but think of how much he meant to her. How, despite everything, despite the walls he had built around himself, he had become a part of her life in ways she hadn't even noticed. The song seemed to echo her own thoughts.

"Yeh zindagi hai safar Tu safar ki manzil hai…

Jahan bhi jaun ye lagta hai teri mehfil hai…"

And then, to her surprise, Akshat began to hum the next part of the song, his voice low but steady, joining hers. The sound of his voice, once filled with panic and fear, was now calm, almost soothing. I

"Bhatak rahi thi jawani andheri raahon mein..."

Sukhun dil ko mila aake teri baahon mein..."

His gaze drifted from the road ahead to her. His voice carried the weight of those words, and Amrit could feel the depth of his emotions. His life had been dark and stormy, filled with pain and memories he couldn't escape but she entered in his life unexpectedly, and is now becoming his peace.

"Main ek khoyi hui mauj hoon, tu saahil hai..."

As he sang further he couldn't help but think that had always felt like she was drifting aimlessly, unsure of where life would take her. But now, sitting beside her, it felt like he had found her shore.

"Jahan bhi jaaun yeh lagta hai teri mehfil hai..."

Tu iss tarah se meri zindagi mein shamil hai..."

****************************************

They reached the apartment in silence the heaviness of the night still hanging between them. The moonlight spilled through the windows as they entered from the front side, careful not to make any noise, knowing everyone else would be fast asleep by now.

Akshat watched Amrit as she quietly moved around the room. She changed into her nightwear and sat down at her dresser, removing her anklets with delicate care. The faint jingle of the silver bells was the only sound in the stillness. He noticed how gently she placed them back into their box, as if each piece of jewelry held a special meaning. Then, she removed her bangles, one by one, placing them into her bangle box, arranging them neatly. Her movements were graceful, unhurried, and there was something calming about watching her take such care in these small actions.

Akshat, now in his casual clothes, he began walking towards couch.

But Amrit, watching him, felt a flicker of doubt. She had seen the tension in his body earlier, the pain in his eyes. After everything, she worried he might not sleep well, that he might get nightmares because of the panic he felt.

Before he could sit down on the couch, she instinctively reached out and grabbed the hem of his T-shirt. Akshat stopped, turning to look at her with a questioning gaze.

"Wo... I..." Amrit stammered, suddenly nervous about what she was about to say. "I think I’ll get nightmares again. Will you stay?" She lied, her voice faltering a little, but her eyes earnest.

Akshat’s expression softened instantly, concern flickering in his eyes. He nodded, not questioning her words. If she was scared, he would stay—no matter what. He didn’t say anything, just gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.

Amrit shifted in the bed, making space for him. "Yahan," she said softly, motioning for him to lie beside her. He hesitated for only a second before he climbed into bed next to her, still holding her hand. He lay down stiffly at first, uncertain, but as her warmth radiated beside him, some of the tension in his muscles started to ease.

Minutes passed in a quiet lull. Amrit lay on her side, watching him, their hands still loosely linked. His eyes were closed, but she could see the slight furrow in his brow, the way his face was still drawn with stress. After a while, she noticed the beads of sweat forming on his forehead, and his breaths growing more uneven. His brow creased further, as if something dark was creeping into his dreams.

Her heart ached at the sight. Without thinking, she turned towards him, her hand gently reaching out to caress his forehead, smoothing out the lines of worry that had formed. Her fingers moved slowly, tenderly, as if trying to erase the pain lingering in his subconscious.

His expression softened slightly under her touch, but it wasn’t enough. She moved closer, her heart pounding in her chest. Carefully, she leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his cheek, her lips barely brushing against his skin. His face warmed slightly at the contact, and his tense expression eased, as though the simple touch had anchored him back to the present.

A small smile tugged at Amrit’s lips as she pulled back, watching his features relax further. She settled back down, placing his hand beneath her cheek, holding it close as if it were a lifeline. Her other hand moved gently to his hair, her fingers threading through the dark strands, offering him comfort even in his sleep.

As Amrit closed her eyes, her breath soft and steady beside him, Akshat’s eyes slowly fluttered open. His mind was still foggy, the remnants of anxiety clinging to him like a second skin. But something else replaced the tension in his chest—something he hadn't expected.

It took a moment for him to register what had just happened. His heart skipped a beat as the memory of her soft lips brushing against his cheek replayed in his mind. The warmth of the touch lingered, like a delicate imprint that refused to fade. His stomach flipped, and an unfamiliar sensation spread through him, one that left him slightly breathless.

She had kissed him—again.

His pulse quickened as the realization settled in. He remembered the first time she had kissed him, a fleeting moment that had left him startled and confused. But this time, it felt different. This time, the gesture wasn’t just surprising—it was... grounding. His skin still tingled where her lips had touched, and he could feel the warmth rising to his ears, creeping up his neck.

A strange, unfamiliar warmth spread through his chest as he continued to stare at her, studying the soft curve of her lips, the way her eyelashes rested against her cheeks, the steady rise and fall of her breathing.

His eyelids grew heavy as sleep beckoned him once more, but this time. The nightmares didn’t lurk in the shadows of his mind, Instead, there was something softer, something more uncertain. It was as if the confusion in his heart was trying to make sense of what had happened—what she had done for him.

With one last glance at her, Akshat allowed his eyes to close. His hand, still resting in hers, felt steady now.

****************************************

Amrit and Nandini stepped out of their apartments together, the bright morning sun casting a golden hue over the building.

"Good morning!" Nandini greeted cheerfully, stretching her arms.

Amrit smiled, nodding in response. They walked down the steps, only to find Bulbul and Preeti sitting on the stairs with Vidya, who had just arrived. The three were happily chit-chatting, laughter filling the air.

“Mujhe abhi yaad aaya… I brought something for you all,” Amrit suddenly said, her face lighting up as she recalled the gifts she had picked up.

Everyone’s eyes sparkled with excitement.

“Oh, kya laayi?” Preeti asked, her curiosity piqued.

Amrit dashed back inside her apartment, and moments later, she returned with small, beautifully wrapped gifts. She handed them out one by one, the girls eagerly unwrapping their surprises. She finally handed Bulbul a small, delicate pair of earrings.

"Wowww," Bulbul gasped, her eyes widening in admiration. The little silver earrings sparkled in her hands.

“Pasand aaya?” Amrit asked, a pleased smile tugging at her lips as she saw Bulbul’s delighted expression.

“It’s so pretty, Amru! Kidhar se laayi?” Vidya inquired, admiring her own gift, her eyes still locked on the earrings Bulbul was holding.

“Kal hum log amusement park gaye the na,” Amrit replied casually, brushing her hair back.

Suddenly, Preeti leaned forward, her eyebrows raised in curiosity. “Hum log? Kaun log?”

Amrit’s eyes widened, realizing she had misspoken. Before she could gather her thoughts, Vidya jumped in.

“Woh… actually kal jijaji aaye the na. Toh shayad unke saath,” Vidya offered, trying to help, but only making Amrit more flustered.

Preeti’s jaw dropped, her tone full of surprise. “Kya? Tere pati aaye the kal? Amrit, why didn’t you tell us? I wanted to meet him!”

Amrit gulped, feeling cornered. “Uh… woh raat ko aaye the,” she stammered, fidgeting with her hands.

Bulbul, who had been quietly listening, chimed in innocently, her eyes wide with curiosity. “Aur shaam ko toh aap mere saath ice cream khane gaye the na, tab toh nahi the woh?”

Amrit felt her heart race as everyone’s gaze fell on her. She cleared her throat, trying to come up with an explanation. “Woh… woh raat ko hi aaye the. Actually, he’s so busy na, toh mushkil se he got a few hours to meet me,” she lied, forcing a smile as she fidgeted nervously.

Nandini, who had been listening quietly until now, folded her arms, her eyes narrowing with suspicion. “Itna busy bhi kya hai ki apni biwi ke liye time nahi nikaal sakta?” she remarked, her tone sharp with concern. “Amrit, I’m telling you, something is definitely wrong.”

Amrit flinched at Nandini’s words, feeling a defensive spark rise in her chest. “Didi, it’s nothing like that,” she replied, her voice a little firmer now. “He is the best person, bas… he’s just really busy with work.”

"Ohh, getting offended!" Preeti teased, her eyes twinkling mischievously as she nudged Amrit playfully.

Amrit’s cheeks flushed further, and she looked down, trying to avoid their gazes.

“Itne kam din mein you started loving him that much?” Nandini asked, raising an eyebrow as she leaned against the railing.

Amrit’s eyes widened in surprise, and she quickly shook her head. “Uh! Not love… I just trust him,” she stammered, feeling the heat in her cheeks rising even more.

Nandini and Preeti exchanged knowing glances, both grinning widely. Before they could tease her further, Kavya stepped out of her apartment, holding her briefcase, dressed for work. She smiled warmly at the group, sensing the lively atmosphere.

"What's happening?" Kavya asked, her curiosity piqued as she joined them.

"Bas, someone is in love," Nandini teased, pointing a subtle finger at Amrit, whose eyes widened in embarrassment.

Amrit immediately waved her hands in protest, her voice flustered. “Aisa kuch nahi hai, didi! Abhi toh shaadi hui hai,” she explained, trying to brush off the playful accusation.

“Toh? Love can happen in just one sight, jaise mujhe hua tha Vikram se,” Preeti chimed in with a dreamy sigh, her expression softening as she thought of her husband.

Kavya chuckled lightly, intrigued by Preeti’s words. "Seriously? Just one sight?" she asked, half-joking but curious to hear more.

Preeti nodded eagerly. “Haan! Love is strange that way. You don’t need months or years. Sometimes, it's just one moment, one look, or even one action from someone that makes your heart flip,” she said, her voice taking on a thoughtful tone.

Amrit shifted uncomfortably, trying to divert attention from herself, but Preeti continued, lost in her explanation.

“See, love doesn’t always need a grand gesture or long conversations. It can be something as simple as how someone looks at you, or how they notice small things. Sometimes, it’s just one thing they do that makes you feel special, and before you know it, you’re in love.” Preeti's eyes sparkled with emotion as she recounted her own experience.

The words hung in the air for a moment, and Kavya, who had been listening quietly, found her mind drifting. Krishiv, the name suddenly echoed in her thoughts, catching her off guard. She didn’t know why, but something about the way Preeti described love made her think of him. The little gestures, the way he had been so kind to Bulbul, his soft, knowing smile…

"What the hell are you thinking? Shoo!" Kavya scolded herself internally, blinking rapidly to shake off the thought. She didn’t even understand why her mind had gone there. It was ridiculous, and she mentally cursed herself for letting it happen.

Nandini, who had been observing Kavya’s sudden quietness, nudged her lightly. “Kya hua? Kahaan kho gayi?” she asked, her eyes narrowing in playful suspicion.

Kavya quickly shook her head, her cheeks warming slightly. “Nothing, nothing! Just… thinking about work,” she lied, brushing it off with a nervous laugh.

Amrit, still blushing from the attention, tried to change the subject again, laughing lightly. “Aap sab jyada hi soch rahe. Kuch aisa nahi hai,” she said, trying to downplay the conversation, though her flushed face betrayed her.

"Alright, I should leave now. Bulbul, take your bag. School nahi chalna?" Kavya called out as she adjusted her briefcase, glancing back at her daughter with a warm smile.

"Abhi time hai, Mumma! Because of you, I have to go early, and I just sit there bored," Bulbul huffed, crossing her arms defiantly.

"Arre, aap jao. I will drop her," Vidya offered cheerfully, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Okay, bulbul, no shaitani ok?" Kavya said, her tone a mix of authority and affection as she headed for the door.

As Kavya left, Bulbul's curious mind kicked into gear. "What is love?" she asked, her little brows furrowing in confusion.

The adults paused, exchanging glances before Nandini knelt down to Bulbul's level, ready to explain. "Umm, jab hame koi insaan accha lagne lagta hai aur hum chahte hain ki wo humare sath hamesha rahe… that is love," she explained softly, her voice filled with warmth.

Bulbul thought for a few seconds, her small face scrunching up in concentration. "I also love someone," she declared suddenly, making everyone’s eyes widen in surprise.

"What??" Amrit exclaimed, her expression a mix of shock and intrigue.

"Bulbul beta, this is not the age for such things," Preeti chimed in.

"Par kyun? I also want him to be with me hamesha!" Bulbul insisted, her voice full of determination.

"Who is he?" Amrit asked, curiosity getting the better of her.

"My cheatel uncle!" Bulbul replied, her face lighting up with excitement as she mentioned him, which made the adults burst into laughter.

"Why are you laughing? I sach mein love him! Mujhe bhi wo apne sath chahiye," Bulbul pouted, crossing her arms and looking at them seriously.

"Uske liye toh your mother have to love him na, baccha," Nandini said, a grin still plastered on her face as she teased.

Preeti narrowed her eyes at Nandini, half-amused and half-exasperated.

"Accha, I have to go to a function today. Nandu baby, tu office late se jayegi, toh thodi der baad will you wake my son up taaki time se breakfast kar le wo? Kal raat se room me pada hua hai, I don't know what happened to him. Bas keh raha hai not feeling well. I don't want to leave him, but Vikram said it's important," Preeti said, her tone laced with concern.

****************************************

After a while, Nandini stood outside Vedant's apartment, her patience wearing thin. She rang the doorbell for the sixth time, the chime echoing in the quiet hallway. When there was still no answer, she knocked loudly, her knuckles rapping against the wood with determination. Finally, the door creaked open, revealing Vedant, who looked disheveled and unwell, his hair tousled and his face slightly pale.

"Kya hua hai?" Nandini asked, her eyebrows raised in concern as she stepped inside without waiting for an invitation. "Darling told me that you are not feeling well and behaving strange. Kal bhi your mood was off. What's the problem?"

"Nothing happened, Nandini. Please leave," Vedant replied curtly, massaging his temples as if trying to ease a headache.

Nandini, however, wasn't easily deterred. "I can see it. Ye aankhon ke neeche dark circles aise hi ho gaye na, and your face is clearly telling that something is wrong." Her voice softened as she approached him, her concern deepening.

"Nandini, will you please mind your own business?? Just leave, yaar," Vedant snapped, frustration spilling over as he sank into the sofa, the weight of the world pressing down on him.

"Nice trick, haan? You think if you talk to me like this, I’ll just go away?" she replied, determination lacing her words as she settled beside him, her eyes fixed on his face. "Agar mai tumhari jagah hoti, toh tum chale jaate?" She asked softly, hoping to reach the part of him that was still willing to share.

Vedant’s gaze shifted, the anger fading to reveal a deep-seated pain that he could no longer hide. "Tum meri jagah kabhi nahi hoti," he whispered, resting his head against the back of the sofa, his voice barely above a murmur. "You can’t be a murderer." The words left his lips like a confession, heavy with guilt.

"What? What are you talking about?" Nandini asked, her heart racing as she leaned in closer, sensing that something was terribly wrong.

He turned to her, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, and for the first time, the facade cracked. "At my first surgery, I couldn’t save a life, Nandini," he choked out, the memory flooding back with vivid clarity. "They say doctors are gods, that we can bring people back from the edge. But I failed. I couldn't do it. I killed him."

The words tumbled from his lips, each one sharper than the last, cutting into his heart with a rawness that left him breathless. "He was so young, full of life. And I… I couldn’t do anything. I just stood there as they wheeled him away, and all I could think was that I let him down."

Nandini’s heart ached at the sight of his despair. She reached out, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Vedant, you didn’t kill him. You did everything you could. Sometimes… sometimes it just isn’t enough."

He shook his head violently, tears spilling down his cheeks as the sobs broke free. "But they don’t see it that way. They call me a murderer. I can’t shake it off, Nandini. Every time I close my eyes, I see his face. I hear their whispers, the way they look at me with disdain. It’s like I’m drowning in it. How can I call myself a doctor when I couldn’t save him?"

The anguish in his voice was palpable, a mixture of guilt and sorrow that enveloped him like a suffocating fog. "I wanted to help. I wanted to save lives. But what good am I if I can’t even save one?”

She hesitated for a moment, then gently pulled him into her arms, holding him tightly as his sobs wracked his body. His walls crumbled completely as he buried his face in her shoulder, letting out the raw pain he had kept bottled up for so long. She rubbed his back soothingly, whispering words of comfort, but he couldn’t stop crying. He was drowning in his own emotions.

After what felt like an eternity, Nandini took a deep breath, deciding to tell him something she hadn’t shared with many people.

"Vedant, listen to me," she began softly, her voice calm but steady. "I know how it feels to carry the blame for something that wasn’t your fault. When I was born… my mother died."

Vedant's sobs quieted for a moment, and he lifted his head, looking at her through red, tear-stained eyes.

"What?" he asked, shock evident in his voice.

Nandini nodded, her expression solemn. "Yes. She died during childbirth, and a few years later, my father passed away too. Everyone in my family started blaming me. They said I killed them. I was just a child, but I had to live with the weight of their accusations. Every time I walked into a room, I could feel their eyes on me, hear their whispers. They’d say, ‘There goes the girl who killed her own parents.’"

Vedant’s eyes widened in disbelief. "But… that wasn’t your fault. You couldn’t have done anything about that. You were just a baby."

Nandini gave him a sad smile, brushing a tear from his cheek. "Exactly. But it took me years to understand that. For the longest time, I believed them. I thought I was cursed. I thought I was the reason my parents were gone. Every time something went wrong in my life, I’d tell myself it was because I didn’t deserve happiness. That I was somehow responsible for their deaths."

Vedant stared at her, his chest heaving as he tried to process her words. "Nandini, that’s… that’s horrible. How could they say that to you? It wasn’t your fault."

"I know that now," she said, her voice gentle as she reached out to wipe more of his tears. "But it took me a long time to accept it. For years, I let their words control me. I let that guilt eat away at me, just like you’re letting it eat away at you. But one day, I realized something. I realized that I wasn’t to blame. I didn’t kill my parents, just like you didn’t kill that patient."

Vedant shook his head, but Nandini held him tighter, refusing to let him retreat back into his guilt.

"Listen to me," she said firmly. "You did everything you could for that patient. Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, things don’t work out the way we want them to. That doesn’t make you a murderer, Vedant. It makes you human."

He trembled in her arms, still struggling with the weight of his guilt, but her words were sinking in.

"I used to think I was at fault for everything," she continued softly. "But I’m not. And neither are you. You’re a doctor. You’re here to help people, to save lives. And just because you couldn’t save one, doesn’t mean you won’t save many others in the future. You have to forgive yourself, just like I had to forgive myself."

Vedant closed his eyes, his breath shaky as her words washed over him.

"How… how did you move past it?" he asked quietly, his voice hoarse from crying.

"I stopped blaming myself," Nandini explained, stroking his hair gently. "I realized that I had been carrying a burden that wasn’t mine to carry. I learned to accept that some things are beyond our control. I stopped letting other people’s words define me. And you need to do the same."

She pulled back slightly, looking into his eyes. "Vedant, you’re not a failure. You’re not a murderer. You’re a good person, and you’re an incredible doctor. You can’t let one mistake, one loss, define your entire career or your life."

Vedant’s lips quivered, and more tears slipped down his face, but this time, they were tears of release. He took a deep, shuddering breath, the tension in his body slowly easing as Nandini’s words soothed the storm inside him.

Nandini smiled and clapped her hands together, clearly excited. "Accha, let’s do something else to distract your mind," she said with a playful grin.

Vedant looked at her, a bit flustered. "Nandini… how… I mean... It’s not right," he stammered, looking away awkwardly.

Her eyes widened in surprise, and without warning, she grabbed a pillow and smacked him on the arm. "Dimag thik hai tumhara?!" she exclaimed, rolling her eyes. "I was talking about cooking or going somewhere, stupid! Dirty mind."

Vedant rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, feeling embarrassed. "Ohh…" he mumbled, realizing his mistake.

She chuckled and playfully shoved him. "Chalo jalebi banate hain!" she said enthusiastically.

He groaned, shaking his head. "Ek baar banaya tha, uske baad Maa ne kitchen barbaad karne ke liye mere chehre pe bhi jalebi banayi thi," he joked, remembering the disaster he had caused the last time.

Nandini grinned. "Toh mai kisliye hoon? Chalo, chalo! Pehle jao, wash your face!" she commanded, dragging him towards the sink.

After a few minutes, Vedant returned to the kitchen, his face freshly washed, and saw Nandini attempting to cook something. Her face was smeared with flour, her hair scattered in all directions as she tried to clear the mess with one hand. She looked completely flustered, struggling to manage everything.

He couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Slowly, he walked closer, taking a pen from the counter. "Can I?" he asked softly, pointing at her disheveled hair.

Nandini looked at him and nodded, still struggling to wipe the flour from her face.

Vedant gently took hold of her hair, carefully gathering it in his hands. He began to tie it into a bun, deliberately taking his time, letting his fingers brush against her neck ever so slightly. Nandini felt goosebumps ripple through her skin, and she gulped, trying to ignore the fluttery sensation in her chest. Vedant, fully aware of the effect he was having, kept his movements slow and precise.

Finally, he used the pen to secure her hair, twisting it elegantly into place. Leaning close to her ear, he whispered, "Done." His breath sent a shiver down her spine, making her heart race.

As he pulled back, his eyes locked on her face, still smudged with besan. He reached for a clean cloth and, with gentle, deliberate movements, began to wipe her face. His fingers brushed her cheeks tenderly as he cleaned the flour off her skin. Their proximity, the slow, intimate way he was taking care of her, made the air between them feel thick with unspoken tension. Nandini could feel her pulse quicken, and for a moment, it felt like time had slowed down.

Vedant’s gaze was intense, his fingers lingering on her skin longer than necessary as he wiped the last bit of besan from her cheek. His eyes flickered to hers, and for a brief second, it felt like the world had fallen away, leaving just the two of them in that charged moment.

Nandini’s breath hitched, but she quickly gathered herself and gently pushed him back, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Chashni bana lo!" she said, trying to shake off the moment as she pointed towards the sugar syrup that still needed to be made.

As Vedant started preparing the sugar syrup, he immediately messed up by spilling too much water into the pan. Nandini turned around just in time to see the mess and smacked her forehead in frustration.

"Vedant! Kitna paani daal rahe ho? Itna meetha syrup banega? Diabeties ho jayegi." she scolded, walking over to him and giving him a playful tap on the head.

"Sorry, sorry!" he muttered, trying to control his laughter. But as soon as he adjusted the water, he absentmindedly turned the stove on high, causing the syrup to boil too quickly and bubble over the pot.

"Vedant! Stove toh dheere karo! Kya kar rahe ho?" Nandini yelled, rushing to lower the flame. She gave him another light smack on the head, causing him to chuckle even more.

Finally, after several more mishaps—like Vedant nearly dropping the jalebi batter and almost using salt instead of sugar—they managed to get everything under control. Nandini skillfully piped the jalebis into the hot oil while Vedant worked on perfecting the syrup.

As Nandini grabbed her bag, ready to head to the office, she glanced at Vedant one last time.

"Chalo, I have to leave now. Office jana hai," she said, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. "Aur tum, make sure you go out and relax a bit. You need a break, okay?"

Vedant gave a soft nod, a small smile playing on his lips. "Okay, I'll try," he agreed, his eyes holding onto hers for a second longer than usual.

As they walked to the door, Nandini reached for the handle, but before she could open it, Vedant gently grabbed her hand. She turned around, surprised by his sudden touch.

"Nandini..." he said softly, and their eyes met. For a brief moment, time seemed to pause.

"Thank you," he said, his voice filled with sincerity and warmth. A smile spread across his face, one that carried gratitude and something deeper, though neither of them could fully define it.

Nandini felt her heart flutter but quickly smiled back, nodding in acknowledgment. "Koi baat nahi," she whispered softly, her gaze lingering on his for just a moment longer before she finally opened the door and stepped outside.

Vedant watched her walk down the hallway, and as the door closed behind her, he leaned against it, a thoughtful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. He looked down, almost in disbelief at the feelings stirring within him.

"I don’t know what this feeling is," he murmured to himself, his heart racing in a way it hadn’t in a long time.

Kavya rushed into the office, her heart racing as she navigated through the morning traffic that had conspired to make her late. The sun hung high, casting a bright glow over the bustling streets, and she felt the weight of the day’s responsibilities pressing down on her. Just as she approached the entrance, she spotted Krishiv emerging from Vihaan's office. He looked relaxed, casually sipping on a cold drink while walking towards his car.

As she drew closer, she watched him attempt a playful kick of the empty can, aiming for the nearby dustbin. However, fate had other plans; the can veered off course and struck him right on the forehead. The sight was both amusing and endearing, and Kavya couldn’t help but giggle.

Krishiv paused, looking at her with raised eyebrows, a mock frown on his face. “I got hurt, and you’re laughing? Very bad, Bulbul ki mummy!” he exclaimed, his tone playful yet feigning seriousness.

Kavya’s eyes widened in surprise, quickly suppressing her laughter. “I didn’t mean to! I’m sorry, sir,” she replied, trying to sound contrite but failing to hide her amusement.

“No, no! I can’t forgive you now. You dared to laugh at me, na? Now you…” he trailed off, barely holding up his smile.

“Please don’t ask Vihaan sir to deduct my salary, sir! I’m really sorry!” she pleaded, a hint of desperation creeping into her voice.

Krishiv’s lips curled into a smirk, and he leaned closer as if about to reveal a great secret. “Now you have to keep laughing like this always,” he teased, his tone light and mischievous.

“Sir, I—” she started to explain but stopped mid-sentence, her thoughts getting tangled as she realized the playful banter was taking a turn. “Kya?” she asked, puzzled.

“Haste huye acchi lagti hain aap,” he remarked, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. His compliment caught her off guard, and she felt her cheeks flush a deep crimson.

Before she could respond, the watchman approached, bending down to pick up the wayward can. “Kaka, maine pheka tha na! Please don’t bother,” Krishiv called out, waving his hand dismissively tossing the can into the dustbin and continued on his way, leaving Kavya still blushing from Krishiv’s earlier remark.

Krishiv then turned back to her, fully engrossed in conversation with some of the employees who had gathered nearby. They were laughing together, and she couldn’t help but smile as she watched him effortlessly connect with everyone around him.

The afternoon sun poured through the office windows, casting a warm glow over the bustling workspace. Kavya entered with Bulbul in tow, the little girl’s laughter filling the air as they walked hand in hand. It was another half-day for Kavya, and she cherished these moments spent with her daughter amidst the work environment.

As they navigated through the office, Kavya’s eyes caught sight of Krishiv striding confidently down the hallway, his usual playful demeanor evident in the way he carried himself.

“Cheatel uncle!” Kavya shouted, her voice ringing out, earning the attention of everyone in the vicinity.

Krishiv turned, a grin spreading across his face. “Ayye Bulbul!” he exclaimed as the little girl sprinted toward him, her arms wide open. Without hesitation, he bent down and scooped her up, lifting her high into the air.

“Again, again!” Bulbul squealed, her delight echoing in the office as he twirled her around. She planted a sweet kiss on his cheek, and he reciprocated, gently pressing his lips to her cheek in return.

Kavya stood back, her heart warming at the sight. She shook her head with a smile, knowing how much joy Krishiv brought into Bulbul's life.

The office atmosphere shifted as colleagues paused to take in the heartwarming scene; their expressions ranged from amusement to admiration.

“Bulbul ki mummy, I’m taking her with me, okay?” Krishiv announced, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he looked at Kavya.

Kavya laughed lightly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Who am I to say anything?” she replied with a playful shrug.

“Let’s go, chota packet!” he said, gently setting Bulbul down and taking her hand, ready to whisk her away for their afternoon adventure.

As they walked away, Kavya watched them, a content smile on her face.

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