♡26♡

Vote Target - 3.8k

Comments - 2k

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

Akshat was about to enter the classroom when he felt someone tap his shoulder. Turning around, he found Arpita standing there with a wide, cheerful smile on her face.

“Hello, Akshat Sir…oops, sorry, I mean Akshat,” Arpita said, her tone teasing yet playful.

“Hello,” Akshat replied curtly, his disinterest evident in his tone.

“So, if your lecture is done, shall we head to the canteen?” Arpita asked, her smile unwavering.

“No, I have some work to do, and if I want to eat something, I’ll go alone. Please, you can go,” Akshat replied, his voice firm, leaving no room for argument.

“Come on, Akshat, don’t be so rude!” Arpita said, trying to maintain her charm.

At that moment, Akshat’s eyes drifted behind Arpita and spotted Amrit standing a few steps away. Her expression was far from pleased; in fact, she looked downright furious as she observed the interaction.

“Excuse me, I have some important work,” Akshat said abruptly, turning back to Arpita.

“Actually, Akshat, I don’t have your number. Could you please share it with me?” Arpita asked, her voice sweet yet persistent.

From the corner, Vidya whispered to Amrit, loud enough to be heard, “Dekh rahi hai iss chudail ko? Kabse sir ke peeche padi hai. Bechare ki jaan nahi chhodti!”

Amrit’s frown deepened, and her irritation was palpable.

“What are you thinking, Akshat?” Arpita asked, still hopeful for an answer.

Before Akshat could respond, Amrit and Vidya walked up to them. Amrit, wearing an indifferent expression, interrupted the conversation.

“Sir, mujhe ye topic aap dobara samjha denge kya?” she asked, her gaze cold as she glanced at Arpita.

Arpita’s patience seemed to snap. “Jab wo class mein explain karte hain, tab toh tum jaise log baith kar masti aur gossip karte ho. Phir yahan aa jaate ho pareshan karne!”

Akshat’s calm but sharp voice cut through the tension. “Excuse me. First of all, maine khud apne students ko permission di hai ki agar unhe koi doubt ho toh wo kisi bhi time puchhein. And second, Amrit is a talented student who always focuses in class. Agar usse kuch samajh nahi aaya, toh it’s my duty to explain it to her. Usne aapse nahi pucha jo aap itni irritate ho rahi hain.”

His words left Arpita speechless. Her face turned red with embarrassment, and she quickly backtracked. “Oh…I’m sorry, Akshat. Chalo, bye!” she said awkwardly before walking away.

As the tension dissolved, Akshat turned to Amrit with a softer expression. “Haan, batao, kya puchna tha?”

Amrit, however, looked unimpressed. Without saying a word, she snatched the book from his hand and walked off, leaving Akshat standing there, utterly confused and a little taken aback.

The large lecture hall hummed softly with the buzz of students settling into their seats. Amrit entered quietly, slipping into a seat in the middle row, clutching her notebook and pen. Akshat stood at the front of the class, impeccably dressed in a crisp white shirt with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his commanding presence filling the room. His sharp gaze scanned the room briefly before he began.

“Good morning, everyone,” Akshat said, his deep, resonant voice cutting through the chatter. The students immediately fell silent, their attention drawn to him. “I’ve sent the text we’ll be discussing today in the group chat. Check your WhatsApp group; it’s a PDF of the book. Let’s begin.”

As the students pulled out their phones to access the PDF, Amrit quietly did the same. Her eyes briefly flitted to Akshat as he adjusted his glasses, his focused expression making her heartbeat quicken. She opened the PDF and read the title: “Paradise Lost” by John Milton.

“Today, we’ll delve into the complexities of Paradise Lost,” Akshat began, his voice steady and engaging. “It’s one of the greatest epic poems in English literature, first published in 1667. The poem explores themes of free will, obedience, and the consequences of rebellion, with Satan as one of the most intriguing anti-heroes ever created. Let’s start with Book I, which introduces us to Satan and his fall from Heaven.”

He paused to let them skim through the lines before continuing. “Milton’s work opens with Satan in Hell, rallying his fallen angels. The famous line ‘Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven’ reveals Satan’s defiance and his twisted sense of freedom. What does this tell us about the character Milton is constructing?”

Several hands went up, and Akshat gestured to one of the students, who began sharing her thoughts. Amrit, however, wasn’t listening. Her eyes were fixed on Akshat, studying the way his lips moved as he spoke, the subtle furrow of his brow when he explained a complex idea, and the way his hands gestured gracefully to emphasize his points.

Lost in her thoughts, Amrit didn’t realize she had been staring for longer than was appropriate. Her gaze moved from his sharp jawline to his dark eyes, and then to the slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Akshat, mid-sentence, caught her gaze and remembered the voice note she had left him once, teasingly admitting her thoughts.

He coughed lightly, covering his smile with his fist. Picking up his phone discreetly from the lectern, he opened WhatsApp and typed a quick message to her.

“Concentrate on the lecture instead of having thoughts of kissing your professor, Mrs. Amrit Singhania.”

The soft ping of her phone pulled Amrit from her reverie. She glanced at her screen and froze, her eyes widening as the words registered. Her face turned beet red as a wave of embarrassment washed over her. Slowly, she placed her head on the desk, hiding her burning face in her folded arms.

Akshat, watching her reaction, couldn’t help but chuckle—a low, amused sound that he quickly masked with another cough. Several students turned to look at him curiously, but he straightened up and resumed the lecture, his tone steady and professional.

“Milton’s depiction of Satan challenges traditional notions of heroism and villainy. By making Satan a complex, relatable figure, Milton forces readers to question the nature of good and evil,” he said, returning to the topic.

Amrit, still mortified, peeked up from her arms and gave him a glare that promised retribution, but Akshat merely smirked before continuing his lecture.

The canteen was buzzing with the chatter of students as Akshat entered, looking for a quiet corner to unwind with a cup of tea. He spotted an empty table near the window and sat down, pulling out his phone to catch up on emails. The peaceful moment was short-lived as Arpita entered the canteen, her sharp eyes instantly spotting him. Her lips curled into a triumphant smile, and she confidently made her way toward him.

“Hello, Akshat,” Arpita greeted brightly, sliding into the seat opposite him without waiting for an invitation.

Akshat glanced up briefly. “Hello,” he replied curtly, his tone cold and uninterested as his eyes shifted back to his phone.

“I was passing by and thought I’d join you,” Arpita continued, undeterred by his indifferent response. She leaned forward slightly, trying to engage him. “You know, you really have a unique way of explaining things in class. Your lecture today? Absolutely brilliant.”

Akshat merely nodded, still engrossed in his phone, offering no further comment.

Meanwhile, Amrit and Vidya walked into the canteen, their laughter ringing out as they teased each other about an earlier incident. Amrit’s mood shifted instantly when her gaze landed on Akshat and Arpita at the table. Her smile vanished, her steps slowed, and her fists instinctively clenched at her sides as she took in the sight of Arpita trying to monopolize Akshat’s attention.

Vidya noticed Amrit’s change in expression and followed her line of sight. “Yaar,” Vidya whispered, leaning closer to Amrit, “tu patni ho ke bhi saath nahi baith sakti, aur isko dekh! Ek baar shaadi ki baat kya hui, sir ne mana bhi kar diya, phir bhi Fevicol laga ke chipak rahi hai. Kya scene hai yeh?”

Amrit’s jaw tightened as her emotions swirled, jealousy, annoyance, and a burning desire to interrupt. Without waiting for Vidya to finish her commentary, she marched over to Akshat’s table with Vidya trailing behind her, enjoying the unfolding drama.

“Sir, mujhe ye topic samajh nahi aaya. Aap mujhe dobara samjha denge?” Amrit said, keeping her voice steady as her eyes darted toward Arpita, her expression cold and unbothered.

Arpita groaned audibly, throwing her hands up in frustration. “Why are you disturbing us, Amrit? And especially Akshat? Can’t you see we’re having an important conversation?”

Amrit raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a sarcastic smile. “Important? Gossip karna aur unnecessary baat karna ab important ho gaya hai?”

Arpita leaned forward, her voice dripping with irritation. “At least I’m not making excuses just to come and bother him. What is your problem?”

“Problem?” Amrit repeated, her voice rising slightly as she scoffed. “Actually yes I have a problem but syllabus me tumhare yahan baithne se nahi.”

“To jab mai Akshat se baat karne aa rahi hun tab hi kyun dikkat ho rahi tumhe?” Arpita said sharply, her arms crossed as she glared at Amrit.

Amrit smirked, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “Ohh hello, Miss. Khud se dimag lagane ki zaroorat nahi hai. Ab tum har time sir se chipki rahogi to kya koi unse puchhne bhi na aaye? Ab jab jab mujhe puchhna hota hai, tum wahi dikh jaati ho. Usme mai kya karu?”

Arpita’s face flushed with anger. “Akshat, see? Tumhari student apni senior se kaise badtameezi se baat kar rahi hai!” she complained, turning to Akshat, who raised an eyebrow, looking more amused than concerned.

Amrit stepped forward, her eyes blazing. “Ohh madam, pehle khud ko dekh lo. Sir ko Akshat Akshat keh rahi ho? Respect kya hoti hai, pehle khud seekh lo, phir kisi aur ko judge karna.”

Arpita gasped, scandalized. “Tum mujhse kaise baat kar rahi ho? Tumhari himmat kaise hui—”

Amrit interrupted her with a calm yet cutting tone. “Himmat toh mujhme tumhari bakwas sun ke automatically aa jaati hai. Tum bas yeh samajh lo ki mujhe doubt clear karna hai, aur yeh mujhe sir se hi clear karwana hai. Tumhare hone ya na hone se koi farq nahi padta.”

Arpita glared at her, and the two women were now fully engaged in a verbal battle. The canteen fell quiet as students began to notice the heated exchange.

Akshat, meanwhile, leaned back in his chair, his lips twitching as he fought back a smile seeing Amrut jealousy.

“Ladies,” Akshat finally interrupted, his calm voice slicing through the tension. Both women turned to him, their expressions a mix of surprise and indignation.

“Enough,” he said firmly. “This isn’t the place for your fight. Amrit, sit down. I’ll explain your doubt.”

Arpita’s jaw dropped. “But Akshat—”

He held up a hand, silencing her. “Arpita, there are only two seats here, and Amrit actually has a question about her studies. I think it’s best if you find another table.”

Arpita stared at him, speechless and visibly embarrassed. Forcing a smile, she nodded. “Fine, Akshat. I’ll talk to you later.” She got up reluctantly and walked away, shooting Amrit a sharp glare before leaving.

Amrit sat down in the now-vacant seat, her arms crossed and her expression still stormy.

Akshat looked at her with a faint smile, leaning slightly forward. “So, what’s your doubt?”

Amrit fidgeted, her irritation still bubbling. “Kuch nahi,” she muttered, opening her notebook but refusing to meet his eyes.

Akshat tilted his head, clearly amused. “You came all the way here with so much determination, and now you’re saying kuch nahi?”

Amrit glanced at him, her cheeks heating. “Kuch nahi. Bas explain karna tha.”

Akshat smirked, his tone softening. “Tumhari jealousy itni obvious thi ki mujhe samajhne mein maza aaya.”

Amrit’s eyes widened, and she glared at him. “Mai jealous? Please aisa kuch nahi hai”

Akshat chuckled lightly and leaned back in his chair, his gaze warm and knowing.

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

The evening air was cool as Akshat walked toward the parking lot, eager to head home after a long day. He adjusted his bag on his shoulder, his mind drifting to his work when he heard a familiar voice calling out.

“Akshat! Wait!”

He stopped in his tracks, turning to see Arpita walking briskly toward him, her heels clicking against the pavement. Her ever-present wide smile was firmly in place, but Akshat’s patience was already wearing thin.

“Yes, Arpita?” he asked, his tone flat.

“I just wanted to talk,” she said, stepping closer, a hopeful gleam in her eyes. “You’ve been avoiding me all day. I don’t understand why. Don’t you think we should spend more time together? You know, to...get to know each other better?”

Akshat frowned, taking a step back to create some distance. “But why should we.”

“Come on, Akshat,” she said, her voice soft and coaxing. “Our families think we are perfect together. You are smart, hardworking, and responsible , exactly the kind of person I want to marry. Why are you so hesitant? Don’t you think we could be good for each other?”

Akshat’s jaw tightened. He let out a slow breath, deciding it was time to set things straight once and for all. “Arpita, I have tried to be polite, but I think you are misunderstanding my disinterest. I am not hesitant about you. I am not interested in marrying anyone, neither you nor anyone else.”

Arpita’s smile faltered, confusion and disbelief clouding her expression. “But why? You are at the right age, you have a stable career, and we get along. What’s the problem?”

“The problem,” Akshat said firmly, “is that I don’t believe in getting married. It’s not something I want for myself, not now, and not in the future. My focus is on my career and my own life goals, and marriage doesn’t fit into that. I’ve been clear about this from the start.”

Arpita’s face reddened, her voice rising slightly. “So you’re just going to ignore what everyone wants for you? What about your family? Don’t you think they deserve to see you settled?”

Akshat’s eyes softened, but his tone remained resolute. “My family knows my decision, and they respect it. I suggest you do the same, Arpita. Stop trying to change my mind. It’s not going to happen.”

There was a long silence as Arpita stared at him, the weight of his words sinking in. Finally, she crossed her arms, her tone defensive. “You’re going to regret this, Akshat. You’re shutting yourself off from something that could be great.”

Akshat gave her a small, polite nod. “Maybe. But it’s my decision to make, not yours. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go.”

Without waiting for a response, Akshat turned and walked away, leaving Arpita standing there, stunned and speechless.

As he reached his car, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had finally spoken his mind, and for the first time in weeks, he felt a rare moment of clarity and peace.

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

The apartment was quiet except for the soft scratching of Amrit's pen on her notebook. She was sitting cross-legged on the bed, surrounded by papers and her laptop, deeply engrossed in completing her assignments. The light from the bedside lamp cast a warm glow on her face, highlighting her furrowed brow and the slight pout on her lips as she focused.

Akshat entered quietly, his steps light but purposeful as he moved toward her. Standing behind her for a moment, he watched her intently, a soft smile tugging at his lips. Finally, he broke the silence.

“Kuch khaya?” he asked, sitting down beside her.

Amrit immediately stopped writing, turning her sharp glare to him. “Why are you asking me? Jaa ke apni hone wali biwi se puchiye,” she shot back, her voice tinged with annoyance and jealousy.

Akshat blinked, confused. “Kya?” he asked, and then it dawned on him. “Ohh God! Amrit, wo koi hone wali biwi viwi nahi hai meri!” he exclaimed, throwing his hands up in frustration.

“Accha?” she retorted, crossing her arms. “Halwa bana ke toh bade haq se laa rahi thi. Aaj tak mujhe nahi pata chala ki aapko halwa pasand hai, but she knows.” Her tone was sharp, her words dripping with sarcasm.

Akshat sighed, rubbing his temple. “Tumne pucha kabhi?” he countered. “And you don’t even cook, so how would you know? Waise bhi, she clearly said that maa told her about it.”

Amrit’s eyes widened at his response, her frustration boiling over. “I wanted to learn cooking, na? You were the one who said I don’t have to cook! Ab aap complain kar rahe ho? Mujhe cooking nahi aati toh mujhe kuch pata nahi hona chahiye aapke likes aur dislikes ka?” she fired back, her voice rising slightly.

Akshat groaned, running a hand through his hair. “Tum kahan ki baat kahan le jaa rahi ho?” he asked, exasperated. “I never said that, Amrit! Aur maine complain nahi kiya!” He paused, trying to calm himself, his tone softening. “Right now, you need to calm your mind. I’ll prepare dinner.”

Without waiting for her response, he stood up and walked out of the room, leaving her sitting there with her arms crossed and her lips pursed.

The soft glow of the bedside lamp illuminated the room as Amrit sat on the bed, her legs crossed beneath her, scribbling notes into her notebook. Her assignments were scattered across the bed, a half-empty cup of tea resting on the nightstand. She was lost in her work when the door opened. Akshat stepped in, his sleeves rolled up and his face calm, though there was a subtle tension in his jaw.

“Dinner is ready,” he announced, his voice neutral as he sat down on the edge of the bed beside her.

Amrit didn’t even look up. Instead, she stiffened, her pen pausing mid-sentence. Without lifting her gaze, she shot back, “Jaa ke Arpita ko khilaiye.”

The sarcasm in her voice was unmistakable. It hung in the air like a challenge.

Akshat froze for a moment, stunned by her words. Then, something inside him snapped. His patience had been wearing thin all evening, and this was the breaking point.

“What the hell is wrong with you, Amrit?” he demanded, his voice louder now, carrying an edge she wasn’t used to hearing from him.

Amrit flinched at the sharpness in his tone, her pen falling from her fingers. She finally looked up at him, wide-eyed, as if she hadn’t expected him to lash out.

“Kitni baar ek hi baat samjhani padegi tumhe?” Akshat continued, his frustration evident in the way he ran a hand through his hair. “I’ve already told you—maine usse mana kar diya tha! I blocked her in front of you, Amrit! Aur maine aaj bhi usse clear kar diya ki mujhe usse koi lena-dena nahi hai. What more do you want from me?”

Amrit’s gaze fell to her lap, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the corner of her notebook.

Akshat’s chest heaved as he struggled to rein in his emotions, but the words poured out anyway. “You want to hide this marriage, don’t you? I’ve supported your decision every step of the way. That’s why I don’t have a proper excuse to give my mother—koi aisi wajah nahi hai jo mai unhe samjha sakun. Tum chahti ho ki maa kisi aur ladki ko meri life mein na laaye? Fine. Let’s end this secrecy. Let’s tell her everything right now.”

He stood abruptly, gesturing toward the door. “In fact, let’s go to Preeti Maasi and tell her too. Chalo, abhi chalte hain. Are you okay with this? Are you ready to tell everyone?”

Amrit’s lips parted slightly, but no words came out. Her head dipped lower, her silence answering his question.

Akshat scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief. “Nahi ho na,” he said bitterly. “So tell me—what should I do? What is my fault if my mother is trying to arrange alliances for me? What is my fault if that girl doesn’t understand boundaries, even after I’ve made everything clear? Tum samajh rahi ho how much effort it’s taking for me to manage all this?”

His voice cracked slightly, but he pressed on, his frustration fueling his words. “No, of course you don’t. Leave it—tumhe kya samajh ayega?”

He turned away from her, taking a step toward the door. He stopped momentarily, his back to her. His tone had lost its anger, replaced by cold detachment. “Dinner kar lena,” he said without looking back. “Don’t wait for me. I have some work to finish, so I’ll be in the study.”

The door closed behind him with a soft thud, but it felt like a slam to Amrit. She sat frozen on the bed, her chest tight, his words replaying in her mind.

For the first time, she saw the weight he was carrying—the responsibility of balancing their hidden relationship, his mother’s expectations, and his own emotions. Tears welled up in her eyes as guilt washed over her.

Amrit hesitated as she stepped inside the dining room, her eyes falling on the dinner spread Akshat had prepared. The aroma of mushrooms wafted in the air, and her chest tightened.

Yesterday ,she had casually mentioned wanting to eat mushrooms. And here it was—made by him, despite all the tension between them. She stared at the plate, guilt flooding her senses. Slowly, she pulled out a chair and sat down, resting her head on the cool wooden surface of the table. The weight of her actions felt heavier now.

Meanwhile, in the study room, Akshat sat at his desk, flipping through files with unnecessary force, his frustration evident in the way he slammed one folder shut and picked up another. His tie was loose, his hair disheveled from constantly running his fingers through it. He was trying to distract himself with schedules and deadlines, but the echoes of their argument refused to leave his mind.

The door to the study was slightly ajar, and Amrit peeked in. She hesitated, biting her lip, but the sight of him—tense and absorbed in his work—pushed her forward. She entered quietly, her steps light as if afraid to disturb him.

Akshat was focused on the file in his hands when a small hand appeared in front of his face, holding a toffee. He blinked, startled, and looked up to find Amrit standing beside him. Her eyes were filled with guilt, her expression soft and apologetic.

“I’m sorry,” she said in a small voice, her sincerity evident. “Mujhe pata hai how difficult it is for you to manage everything. You’re already so stressed, and I’ve only added to your troubles.” She paused, taking a deep breath before continuing, “I’m really sorry, Akshat. I don’t even know why I reacted the way I did.”

As she spoke, her other hand reached up to her ear, holding it in a traditional gesture of apology. She looked so remorseful, so childlike in her guilt, that Akshat couldn’t help but soften.

He glanced at the toffee in her hand and then back at her face, his lips twitching as a smile began to form. “Bas ek hi toffee?” he asked, his tone light, teasing. “Itne saste mein khareed rahi ho meri maafi?”

Amrit’s cheeks flushed as she looked at the toffee, then back at him. “Bas ek hi bachi thi,” she replied earnestly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Akshat opened the small toffee wrapper with practiced ease, his eyes never leaving Amrit’s face. The quiet crackle of the wrapper seemed to echo in the study, filling the silence between them. Once unwrapped, he held the toffee near her lips, his gaze soft but insistent, silently urging her to take it.

Amrit’s eyes widened slightly at his unexpected gesture, her heart fluttering in her chest. Hesitating for a moment, she slowly leaned forward and parted her lips, taking the sweet from his fingers. The gesture was simple yet intimate, and the warmth of his fingertips lingered on her skin even after the toffee was gone.

Akshat’s lips curved into a faint smile as he watched her, a mix of affection and guilt in his expression. Gently, he raised a hand and cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing lightly against her skin. His touch was warm, grounding, and it made her breath hitch.

“I’m sorry,” he said softly, his voice filled with regret. “For raising my voice at you. I shouldn’t have spoken to you like that.”

Amrit shook her head, her own hand coming up to rest over his. “Nahi,” she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. “I deserved that, Akshat. I overreacted, and I didn’t think about how much you’re already handling. It’s my fault.”

“No,” he said firmly but gently, his gaze locking with hers. “You didn’t deserve that. I let my frustration take over, and for that, I’m sorry.”

Before she could respond, Akshat shifted closer, his arms wrapping around her in a careful yet deliberate embrace. For a moment, she froze in surprise—this was the first time he had initiated a hug, the first time he had sought her out like this without fear or hesitation.

The significance of the moment wasn’t lost on her. His actions spoke louder than his words ever could, and her cheeks flushed a deep red as she felt the warmth of his body against hers. Slowly, she let her arms lift and wrap around him, returning the hug.

Her head rested lightly against his chest, and she could hear the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, a sound that brought her comfort. Akshat’s chin grazed the top of her head as he held her closer, his hold protective yet tender.

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

Kavya stood in Vihaan's cabin, her fingers lightly trailing along the edge of the table as she glanced at the clock for the third time in ten minutes. A sigh escaped her lips as she turned towards the door, hoping to spot the person occupying her thoughts. Spotting an employee passing by, she called out.

"Suman, Krishiv sir abhi tak nahi aaye?" she asked, trying to sound casual, though the hint of disappointment in her voice was unmistakable.

The employee stopped briefly. "Nahi, ma’am," she replied politely before walking away.

Kavya’s shoulders slumped slightly as she pouted. “Pata nahi kahan reh gaye!” she muttered under her breath, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as she leaned against the table.

Just as she was about to turn away, a familiar voice echoed from the doorway, laced with amusement.

“Were you waiting for me, Bulbul ki mummy?”

Startled, she spun around to see Krishiv leaning casually against the doorframe, his arms crossed and a mischievous smile playing on his lips. His tone carried a teasing edge, but his gaze was sharp, noticing the way her face lit up at his arrival.

“Sir?” Kavya managed, her voice faltering slightly as her eyes darted to the ground for a moment before meeting his.

He pushed off the wall and began walking towards her, his strides slow and deliberate. “Hmm? You seemed a little restless,” he remarked, tilting his head as he observed her expression. “Why were you searching for me?”

Kavya took a small step back, her nerves getting the better of her as he closed the distance between them. Her heartbeats quickened, and she struggled to find her voice.

“Wo… I…” she stammered, her cheeks flushing as he stopped in front of her, close enough for her to catch a faint whiff of his cologne.

He leaned in, his hand lifting to gently tilt her chin, forcing her to meet his intense gaze. The warmth of his touch contrasted with the cool air-conditioned room, leaving her speechless.

“Kahin pyar toh nahi ho gaya aapko mujhse?” he whispered, his voice a low murmur that sent her heart racing.

Her eyes widened in shock, and she felt her breath hitch. She opened her mouth to say something, but the words seemed to stick in her throat. The room felt smaller, the air heavier, as his words echoed in her ears.

Just then, a voice interrupted the charged moment.

“Kavya? Is everything fine?”

She flinched and turned towards the door to see Vihaan standing there, his brow furrowed in concern. Her eyes darted around the room, and to her shock, Krishiv was nowhere to be seen.

“A…aap?” she stammered, her voice shaky as she tried to process what had just happened.

Vihaan stepped inside, still looking at her curiously. “Are you okay? Tumhara chehra itna laal kyun hai?”

She blinked rapidly, realizing that her cheeks were indeed burning. She quickly shook her head, trying to regain her composure. “Wo… garmi hai,” she muttered, her voice unconvincing.

Vihaan raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. “Garmi? Cabin toh AC se thanda hai,” he said, stepping closer to study her expression.

Kavya averted her gaze, clutching her dupatta tightly. “N-nahi, I mean, it’s nothing. I should check the arrangements for the meeting,” she said hurriedly, brushing past him.

Vihaan held up a hand to stop her. “Meeting? Arrey, woh toh postponed ho gayi hai.”

Her steps faltered, and she turned back to face him. “Postponed? Kyun?”

“Krishiv bhai had to leave for the U.S. for an urgent meeting,” he explained, leaning against the desk casually.

Her heart sank at the news, though she struggled to keep her expression neutral. “Kya? Achanak se kyun?” she asked, trying to sound indifferent.

Vihaan shrugged. “Business emergency. He left early this morning.”

Kavya’s fingers tightened around the edge of the desk as she tried to mask her disappointment. “When will he return?”

“Two days,” Vihaan replied, his tone nonchalant.

Kavya nodded slowly, her gaze dropping to the floor. “Okay,” she murmured, trying to focus on anything but the sudden emptiness she felt.

As she walked away, her mind kept replaying the moment with Krishiv. Was it just my imagination? she wondered, her cheeks still warm at the thought of his teasing words. Despite herself, she couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment that he wasn’t really there.

After two days, the door to Krishiv’s cabin opened, and Kavya walked in, holding Bulbul’s hand. The moment the little girl entered, her voice filled the air, sharp and playful.

"Cheatel unclee!!" Bulbul yelled, her face scrunching up in mock anger, and rushed toward Krishiv, her tiny feet pattering across the floor.

Krishiv’s face lit up with a warm, affectionate smile as he bent down to pick her up. "How is my chota patakha?" he asked, lifting her into his arms and planting a soft kiss on her cheek.

"Not good," Bulbul pouted, crossing her arms as she huffed dramatically.

"Arrey, what happened?" Krishiv asked, concerned, placing her gently on his lap as he tried to understand what had caused her distress.

"I missed you, you are so bad. Kyun chale gaye?" she said, her eyes big with a mixture of playful reprimand and genuine longing.

Krishiv laughed, brushing a stray lock of her hair away from her face. "Aww, I’m sorry, baccha! Agli baar se bata ke jaunga," he said in a mock regretful tone, making Bulbul grin widely at his response.

Before Krishiv could continue his playful banter, he noticed Kavya standing nearby, watching them with a soft smile on her face, a glimmer of admiration in her eyes. It was as if she were mesmerized by how Krishiv interacted with Bulbul, her gaze soft and filled with warmth.

"Hello, Bulbul ki mummy," Krishiv said, his voice light and casual as he acknowledged Kavya.

Kavya snapped out of her thoughts and smiled, a little embarrassed by being caught staring. "Hello, sir," she responded, her voice calm yet carrying a hint of something deeper, an emotion she was trying to keep in check.

Krishiv’s eyes lingered on Kavya for a moment, a silent exchange passing between them before he turned his attention back to Bulbul. He gently brushed her cheek with his hand and spoke again.

"Bulbul ki mummy, please give this file to Vihaan tomorrow. And tell him to reschedule tomorrow’s meeting," he said, his voice steady and professional as he handed over a file to Kavya.

Kavya raised an eyebrow, clearly curious. "Kyun?" she asked, glancing between Krishiv and the file in her hand.

"Wo, today I won’t be at my office," he replied. She placed her hands firmly on her hips, her stance assertive as she addressed him.

"Ye kya baat hai?? Aap do din ke liye teen din vaise bhi gayab the, aaj late se aaye, and now you are going to be absent tomorrow also. If you are going to take leaves like this continuously, what will I... I mean, what will happen? Ye project itna bada hai aur abhi acche se start bhi nahi hua," she said, her tone a little sharp, but filled with genuine concern.

She took a step closer, her eyes locking with his. "Jaan sakti hun mai ki kyun nahi aayenge aap?" she asked, her voice softer now, as she sought to understand the reason behind his sudden disappearances. The words were out before she could stop them, and she immediately realized that she had crossed her boundaries. Her expression shifted from frustration to surprise as she realized how forward she had been.

"I... I am sorry, sir... I should leave," she stammered, quickly turning towards the door, her face flushed with embarrassment as she started walking towards her car.

But just as she reached for the door, she heard Krishiv’s voice,

"Tomorrow is my parent's death anniversary," he said, his voice stopping her in her tracks. Kavya froze, her heart skipping a beat as she turned back to him, her eyes filled with a mix of surprise and empathy.

He was standing there, his posture slightly hunched as if the weight of the past was still carrying on his shoulders. "I am going to an orphanage where I used to live, to distribute sweets and foods. Har death anniversary pe ye karta hun mai," he continued, his words soft, yet they held the weight of years of tradition and pain. Kavya could feel the intensity of his emotions, and something inside her stirred. She hadn’t expected this.

She looked at him, her heart aching for the loss he had suffered, and a soft pain settled in her chest.

"Aur abhi jaise aapne mujhe danta na..." Krishiv said, the corner of his lips curving into a slight smile as he teased her, trying to lighten the mood.

"I am sorry, sir... I didn’t mean to," Kavya quickly apologized, her voice softening.

Krishiv shook his head, a warm, almost nostalgic smile crossing his face. "My maa used to scold me like this, keeping her hands on her waist, scrunching her nose," he said, his voice quiet but filled with affection. He seemed lost in the memory for a moment, his eyes momentarily glazing over as he remembered his mother and how her scoldings were never just scoldings but a sign of her love. He looked at Kavya again, his smile returning as he added, "Accha laga. Ok, bye."

With that, he turned to leave, his steps purposeful, yet there was a subtle softness in his movements, as if he had just shared a part of himself with her that he usually kept hidden. Kavya watched him for a moment, still absorbing the gravity of what had just been revealed to her. She stood there for a moment longer.

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

Akshat entered the room and saw Amrit sitting on the bed, talking animatedly with her cousins on a video call. Her laughter echoed as she leaned closer to the phone.

“Wahi toh yaar, jiju ki shakal kya mast ho gayi thi jab unke shoes gayab ho gaye the. Aur Trisha ko dekha? Kaise support kar rahi thi apne pati ko!” Amrit burst into laughter.

Akshat crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. “Amrit,” he called firmly.

She glanced at him, startled. “Acha Amaira, mai rakh rahi hoon. Kuch kaam hai, baad mein baat karti hoon,” she said hurriedly and disconnected the call.

“Kya hua, Akshat?” she asked, tilting her head.

“Kya hua?” he repeated. “Mai ek ghante se dekh raha hoon, yahan panchayat chal rahi hai. Tumhara syllabus already shadi ke chakkar mein peeche reh gaya hai, aur kal exam hai!”

Amrit rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly. “Akshat, mujhe neend aa rahi thi, toh socha thoda baat kar loon. Man fresh ho jayega.”

“Ye thodi baat thi? Ab padhai karo mai chai lekar aata hun!” he ordered, turning on his heel and heading to the kitchen.

When Akshat returned with two steaming cups of tea, he found Amrit asleep on the book she was supposed to be studying. He frowned, walked closer, and sprinkled water on her face.

“Hello! Bahot zyada neend aa rahi hai kya?” he asked, glaring at her.

Amrit jerked awake, rubbing her eyes. “Haan, thodi aa rahi thi,” she admitted with a sheepish smile.

“Chalo, chai pilo. Uske baad padho,” he said, handing her a cup.

As she took a sip, he sat beside her and observed the book lying open in front of her. “Tumhe khud se padhana padega, right? Mai do ghante se dekh raha hoon, ek hi page par atki ho.”

“Arre, nahi! Mai khud se padh lungi,” Amrit argued, shaking her head.

Akshat sighed, leaning back. “No way. Tum khud se jitna padhogi, kal tak kuch nahi hoga. I know you’re good in studies, but ab tumhare speed se lagta hai syllabus cover karna mushkil hai.”

Before she could argue, he picked up her book and began explaining.

After a while, Amrit rubbed her neck uncomfortably. “Akshat, bed par chalen?” she suggested casually.

Akshat froze, his eyes widening in shock. “K-kya?”

Amrit’s jaw dropped. “Akshatttt!!” she exclaimed, grabbing a book and swatting his arm. “Aap kya soch rahe hain? Mai toh yeh keh rahi thi ki bed par comfortably baith nahi paa rahi hoon!”

Realizing his mistake, Akshat closed his eyes in embarrassment. “Haan, haan, mujhe pata tha. Tumhara wahi matlab tha.”

“Jhoot mat boliye! Aapki shakal pe sab likha tha,” she said, narrowing her eyes.

“Jyada mat bolo. Chalo, bed par chal ke comfortably baith jao,” he said, shaking his head with a small smile.

The two shifted to the bed, and Akshat continued explaining her topics.

Amrit’s head started bobbing as sleep threatened to overtake her again. Akshat shook his head in frustration. “Ye nahi sudhregi,” he muttered and walked to the kitchen.

When he returned, he held a dupatta in his hand. Without saying anything, he tied one end to her wrist and the other to his own.

“Akshat, ye kya hai?” Amrit asked, confused.

“Ye paalna samajh lo fark itna hai ki wo paalna bachon ko sulane ke liye hota hai aur ye paalna iss bachi ko jagane ke liye hai…Mere hand movement ki wajah se tumhe need nahi ayegi aur ayegi bhi to mai apna haath kheech lunga. Tumhara sapna toot jayega,” he explained with a smug grin.

Amrit rolled her eyes but had no choice but to comply.

As Amrit resumed studying, her phone buzzed. Vidya was calling. Akshat grabbed the phone and put it on speaker.

“Haan bol,” Amrit said, still focused on her book.

“Yaar, drama ka syllabus bata de!” Vidya asked frantically.

“Kya?? Kal exam hai aur tujhe ab syllabus chahiye?” Amrit exclaimed, bewildered.

“Hein, par exam toh 27 September se start hai na?” Vidya asked.

“Haan, toh kal hi 27 September hai,” Amrit replied, confused.

“Kya?? Abhi toh 4 September chal raha tha!” Vidya said, horrified.

“Are you crazy?” Akshat asked, leaning closer to the phone.

“Sirrrr, meri zindagi barbaad ho gayi,” Vidya wailed.

“Drama band karo. Mai tumhe class ke notes bhej raha hoon. Jaldi se sab cover kar lo,” Akshat instructed firmly.

“Haan, sir. Jaldi kariye. Warna mai sadme mein chali jaungi,” Vidya said dramatically.

“Chalo, Akshat notes bhej denge. Tum rakho. Mujhe padhne do,” Amrit said quickly.

“Chal chal, ban mat. Abhi tak baat kar rahi thi,” Vidya teased before disconnecting.

“Dinner bhi banana hai,” Akshat muttered, glancing at the clock. He turned to Amrit and said, “Chalo, apni copy lo aur mere saath kitchen chalo. Mujhe dinner banana hai.”

“Haan toh aap jaiye na,” Amrit replied, flipping a page.

“Haan, taki tum yahan so jao. Chup chap chalo,” Akshat ordered, untying the dupatta and heading to the kitchen.

In the kitchen, Amrit sat on the counter with her book while Akshat cooked. He periodically glanced at her, ensuring she stayed awake, and occasionally quizzed her on the topics.

Akshat stood by the counter, chopping vegetables with practiced ease. Amrit was seated at the small kitchen table, her books spread out before her, flipping pages and scribbling notes. She was studying intently, but her eyelids drooped every now and then.

“Amrit,” Akshat called, glancing at her from the corner of his eye. “Don’t even think about falling asleep. That’s why I brought you here. Stay awake and ask your doubts if you have any.”

Amrit let out a sigh, closing her notebook with a small thud. “Nahi so thodi rahi” she protested weakly, though her yawn betrayed her.

Akshat smirked. “Sure you aren’t. Now, focus. What’s your next doubt?”

She shuffled over to the counter, notebook in hand, glancing at the sabji he was cooking on the stove. “Ye kab padhaye aap?” she said, pointing to her notes.

Akshat stirred the vegetable and turned to her, his tone patient. “Jab tum shadi me busy thi tab…see I will explain to you it's a simple topic Think of it this way…” He explained while Amrit stood beside him, scribbling hurriedly. She nodded along, her brow furrowed in concentration.

As the vegetable simmered, Akshat scooped a spoonful and blew on it to cool it down. He held it up to Amrit. “Taste this and tell me how it is.”

Amrit glanced at him, surprised. “Mai?”

“Nahi wo tumhare peeche ki cheeni ka dibba. Of course, you!” he teased.

Amrit leaned in and tasted the sabji, her face lighting up with a grin. “Mmm, mast hai vaise aap to hain hi ache cook.”

Akshat grinned back, his chest puffing slightly in mock pride. “Of course, I am.”

A moment later, Amrit absentmindedly asked, “Paani de dijiye.”

Akshat grabbed a glass, filled it with water, and held it up to her lips. “Here, drink.”

She raised an eyebrow. “Mai khud pee sakti hun Akshat.”

“Shh. Don’t argue,” he said with a small smile, tipping the glass gently. Amrit drank, her eyes focused back on her notes. When a small trickle of water escaped and slid down her chin, Akshat frowned.

“Wait,” he said, scanning the counter.

Amrit, sensing his distracted state, grinned mischievously. Before he could find the cloth, she leaned forward and wiped her mouth on his shirt.

“Amrit!” he exclaimed, giving her a fake glare.

“Kya?” she asked innocently, blinking up at him. “Kuch mila hi nahi.”

Akshat shook his head, a small smile tugging at his lips.

After a while, dinner was ready, and the two sat at the kitchen table. Akshat served a plate for Amrit and started feeding her with his hands, making sure she didn’t have to stop studying.

“Keep your eyes on your book,” he said, placing a morsel of roti and sabji near her lips.

She obediently opened her mouth, chewing thoughtfully while flipping pages. A piece of potato stuck to the corner of her lips, and Akshat paused, leaning closer. “Ruko,” he said, wiping it gently with his fingers.

Amrit glanced at him with wide eyes before quickly returning to her book. Akshat smirked and continued feeding her, his tone soft. “Idhar kya dekh rahi ho baar baar…Tum khane se jada padhai pe focus karo mai khila raha hun na bhukhi nahi rahogi don't worry”

Once she finished eating, Akshat handed her the water again and watched as she drank. This time, he used a handkerchief to wipe her mouth, his touch careful.

As they returned to their room, Amrit couldn’t help but smile. She had never imagined studying could be this comforting or this sweet.

The clock ticked on as Akshat sat at the edge of the bed, looking at Amrit, who was still working hard on her studies. Despite her obvious exhaustion, she was trying to keep up with the endless chapters, but it was clear she was struggling.

"Chalo dinner kar liya, ab last chapter hai," Akshat said, his voice soft but firm as he tried to keep her focused.

Amrit rubbed her eyes, trying to fight off the sleepiness that was creeping up on her. "Badi neend aa rahi hai," she mumbled, her head nodding slightly.

"Amrit, natak mat karo. Padhai karo, chup-chaap," Akshat said, his tone gentle but serious. He picked up the book again and began explaining the chapter in a calm and measured voice.

After a few minutes, Amrit yawned and stretched, trying to focus. "Akshat, subah padh lungi," she said, her voice soft but insistent.

"Nahi abhi padho subah revise karna," Akshat replied without missing a beat.

Amrit nodded, though her eyelids were growing heavy, and she could hardly keep her head up. She leaned slightly against him, trying to steady herself, but before long, she felt something warm and comforting on her shoulder. She looked down and found Akshat, his head resting gently against her, already asleep.

Amrit smiled softly, touched by his care. She gently kissed his cheek, a tender gesture, as she adjusted her posture to make him more comfortable. She continued to sit there for a few moments, her eyes filled with warmth as she looked at him.

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

Vedant sat at his desk, staring at the laptop screen in frustration. The countless articles and videos on "How to propose a girl" all felt too generic, too rehearsed. Nothing seemed right for Nandini. His heart pounded in his chest, his mind racing with thoughts of her. He had been thinking about her for so long, but now that he was actually planning to confess his feelings, it felt overwhelming.

He leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples, when suddenly the words of Vaibhav Rathore came to him. "When you realize it, contact me." That’s exactly what he needed to do now. He grabbed his phone from the table, his hands trembling slightly. Without thinking, he opened the cover and searched for the number Vaibhav had given him. His finger hovered over the screen for a moment before he dialed the number.

The phone rang a few times before a calm voice answered, breaking the tension in Vedant’s chest.

"Hello?"

"Mr. Vaibhav Rathore?" Vedant asked, his voice tinged with nervousness.

"Yes. Aap kon hain?" Vaibhav replied, his tone polite but slightly curious.

"Wo… I am Vedant, yaad hai aapne kaha tha ek baar ki 'I am in love with Nandini,' and I didn’t realize that, but then you said to contact you when I realize it," Vedant said, trying to steady his voice.

"Oohh, itna time le liya realize karne mein?" Vaibhav responded, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Vedant sighed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and relief. "Please suggest me, how should I propose her? Mujhe kuch samajh nahi aa raha."

There was a pause on the line, and Vedant could almost imagine Vaibhav nodding thoughtfully on the other end. When Vaibhav spoke again, his voice was calm and measured, the tone of someone who had experienced life and love in its various forms.

"Vedant," Vaibhav began, his voice steady and sincere, "Proposing is not about grand gestures or rehearsed speeches. It’s about making the person feel loved, understood, and valued. You already know her, what she likes, what makes her happy. Don’t try to create a moment that isn’t you, because it won’t feel genuine."

Vedant listened intently, hanging on every word.

"Make something personal, something she will truly appreciate. I think she loves jalebis, so prepare that for her. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it will show her that you’ve thought about her, about what makes her smile. It’s the thought, the effort, and the care that matter most," Vaibhav continued. "When you’re together, let the words come from your heart, not from a script. Tell her how she makes you feel, why you care about her so much, and how you want to be with her, not just as someone she knows, but as someone she can count on."

Vedant’s heart seemed to calm a little at the sound of Vaibhav's reassuring words.

"Don’t overthink it chokre. Trust your feelings, trust the bond you’ve built with her. Just be real. A proposal isn’t about perfection, it’s about sharing your truth, your emotions, and your future with the person you love," Vaibhav added, his voice warm and filled with wisdom.

Vedant sat back, processing the advice. He felt a weight lift off his shoulders. This was the approach he needed—simple, genuine, and from the heart.

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

As the hours passed, the light from the rising sun filtered through the window, warming the room with soft golden hues. Akshat stirred slightly, his face bathed in sunlight. He blinked open his eyes, adjusting to the light. The first thing he noticed was the weight on his chest.

He looked down and saw Amrit still peacefully asleep, her head resting on his chest, one hand draped over him. A smile tugged at his lips as he took in the sight of her, her soft breathing the only sound filling the room. He glanced at the clock on the wall and saw that there were still three hours left before the exam.

"Abhi 3 ghante hain exam ko, tab tak aaram se sone deta hun," Akshat whispered to himself, his voice barely audible. He didn't want to disturb her rest, knowing how exhausted she was after the late-night study session.

He gently adjusted his position, making sure Amrit was comfortable. Slowly and carefully, he shifted her head so that it lay on the pillow instead of his chest. He pulled the blanket over her shoulders, ensuring she was warm and cozy.

As he sat there watching her sleep, he noticed a stray lock of hair that had fallen across her face. He reached out and tenderly pushed the strand behind her ear, his fingers brushing against her soft skin. His heart fluttered at the quiet intimacy of the moment.

He then ran his fingers through her hair, gently caressing it, feeling a sense of peace settle over him. With a soft smile, he leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, his lips lingering there for a moment.

"All the best for your exams," he whispered softly, his voice filled with affection. "You'll do great."

He stood up slowly, taking one last look at her before quietly leaving the room. As he stepped out, he closed the door gently behind him, giving Amrit the rest she so desperately needed.

After sometime, Amrit sat at the study desk, her brows furrowed in concentration as she flipped through her notes, cramming for the exam.

"Akshat meri pen nahi mil rahi," she called out in a slightly panicked tone, her eyes scanning the cluttered desk and scattered papers.

Akshat, who had been busy in the kitchen, immediately responded to her voice, hurrying towards her room. As he entered, he saw her frantic search for the pen, her hand waving over her notes. He gave her a knowing look and grabbed two sets of pens from the drawer beside her.

"Ye hai, kal hi di thi sambhal ke rakhne ke liye, kahin bhi phek dena hai bas," he said, handing her the pens with a smile, before gently placing them inside her box. His voice was teasing but caring, always trying to make things easier for her.

Amrit barely acknowledged him, too engrossed in her revision to notice the small gesture. She just nodded absentmindedly and continued flipping through her pages, muttering to herself. Meanwhile, Akshat stepped back for a moment, hearing the sharp whistle of the cooker in the kitchen.

"One moment," he called out, already rushing toward the kitchen to tend to the food that was getting ready. A few minutes later, he returned, his steps quick as he held a plate of steaming daliya in his hands. The aroma filled the room, but he found Amrit still at her desk, her attention firmly fixed on the notes in front of her. She was speaking to herself, pacing between the pages, saying answers aloud, trying to commit them to memory.

Akshat, ever patient but determined, walked over to her. “Amrit, pehle breakfast kar lo," he said gently, trying to pull her attention away from the mountain of notes that seemed to have consumed her.

But Amrit, in her usual focused state, didn’t even look up. She just walked to the other side of the desk, shuffling her papers. “Rakh dijiye,” she said, gesturing vaguely toward the plate, not realizing the quiet concern in Akshat’s voice.

Akshat followed her, unfazed. "Arrey, sab padha hai na, thanda ho jayega, late bhi ho jayega toh tum khaogi bhi nahi." His voice was soft but firm, a gentle reminder that she needed to take care of herself too. He moved closer, placing the spoon near her lips as if feeding her would break through her stubborn focus.

Amrit hesitated, pausing for a moment before she opened her mouth and took a bite of the warm, comforting daliya.

Akshat, still standing behind her, watched with a quiet smile as she slowly ate.

Amrit’s eyes darted to the clock, and her heart sank. "Aaaaa!! Jane ka time ho gaya. Ab kya karun!" she cried, her voice filled with panic as she clutched her notes tightly, her breakfast still unfinished.

Akshat, calm as ever, walked over to her. "Relax, Amrit. Itna stress mat lo. Finish your breakfast first," he said, his tone reassuring.

"Akshat! Nikalna hai mujhe! I haven’t even worn my shoes yet, aur baal bhi nahi banaye!" she exclaimed, pacing the room while stuffing a few bites of daliya into her mouth.

"Tum khatam karo. Thoda hi bacha hai," he said, handing her the plate and heading toward the corner where her shoes lay scattered. He picked them up and walked back, sitting on the floor near the couch where she had plopped down, still trying to eat and cram simultaneously.

Without a word, Akshat gently held one of her feet and slipped the shoe on. Amrit froze for a second, her eyes widening as she looked at him. His calm, attentive care caught her off guard, and for a brief moment, she stared at him, her heart swelling. But the urgency of the situation snapped her out of it.

"Amrit, focus," she muttered to herself, shaking her head as she quickly returned her attention to her notes.

Akshat, unfazed, slipped the other shoe on and tied the laces neatly. Then he stood, grabbed a comb, and walked behind her. He worked, styling her hair just as she always did, tying it up neatly without a single complaint. Amrit’s lips twitched into a small smile as she glanced at him through the corner of her eye.

Amrit was about to grab her bag when Akshat returned, holding a small bowl in his hand. "Dahi-shakkar kha ke jao," he said, scooping up a spoonful and holding it out to her. His smile was gentle, his eyes filled with encouragement.

Amrit took the spoonful and smiled. "Maa bhi yahi karti thi," she said softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia. She looked at him, her heart full as she remembered her mother’s care and how Akshat had unknowingly stepped into that role today.

Akshat smiled warmly and cupped her cheek. "All the best, Amrit. Don’t stress yourself. Believe in yourself, aur sab theek hoga," he said, his words calm and steady, grounding her in a way no one else could.

Her phone buzzed just then, breaking the moment. Amrit quickly answered it, hearing Vidya on the other end. "Amrit, I’m waiting. Jaldi kar!" Vidya’s voice echoed through the phone.

"I’m coming, Vidya!" Amrit replied, grabbing her bag and disconnected the call.

Akshat, watching her every movement, stepped closer and placed his hand softly on her cheek, holding her still for a moment. His gaze was warm, filled with quiet encouragement as he leaned in and pressed a tender kiss on her forehead.

“All the best,” he whispered, his voice barely audible but brimming with sincerity.

The simple gesture made Amrit shiver slightly, her heartbeat quickening. She swallowed hard, trying to mask the way he had so effortlessly shaken her composure. Managing a faint smile, she grabbed her bag and nodded. “Thank you” she said, her voice steady but laced with emotion, before rushing out to meet Vidya.

Akshat stood by the door, watching her leave, a soft smile on his lips.

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

How was the chapter??

Your favourite moments??

Do follow us on Instagram for spoilers and news related to updates.