Chapter-43

Don't forget to vote and comment ⭐ 💗

Abhimanyu sat on the couch, the hum of the ceiling fan creating a gentle backdrop to the rustle of papers as he flipped through a file. He was engrossed in his work; suddenly, he heard Aarushi's voice calling from the closet, "Abhi."

"Just one minute!" he replied, the words slipping out more impatiently than intended. A few seconds later, he stood up and made his way into the closet where Aarushi waited.

"Hanji, boliye," he said, leaning against the doorframe, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

Aarushi stood before the mirror, holding two pairs of bangles, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Which one "she asked, her eyes bright with anticipation.

He leaned closer, glancing at the bangles before pointing to the right pair, a delicate ensemble adorned with tiny gems that sparkled in the light. "That one. It'll suit you perfectly."

"Okay!" she chirped, placing the bangles down momentarily. But as she reached for them again, he interrupted.

"Wait, let me." Abhimanyu moved closer, the soft scent of her jasmine perfume filling his senses. He gently took the bangles from her hands, deftly sliding them onto her wrists. The contact sent warmth coursing through him, a rush that was both familiar and exhilarating.

"Thank you" Aarushi said, her smile brightening the room. He stroked her cheek, his thumb brushing against her skin. "Looking pretty as always"

Then, without thinking, he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers, the kiss deep and fervent, filled with unspoken adoration. It was a moment that made time stand still always, where nothing else existed but the two of them.

When he pulled away, he felt a warmth bloom in his chest, looking at his little wife, who had filled his life with colors he never knew existed.

Aarushi pouted, her hand flying to her lips. "My lipstick! You ruined it!" she complained, though her eyes sparkled with mischief.

Abhimanyu chuckled, the sound low and rich. "It's just a little color. You look beautiful regardless." He leaned in again, planting a soft peck on her lips.

"Abhi-" she began, but he cut her off, pressing his lips to hers once more, a fleeting kiss that left her breathless and giggling.

She opened her mouth again, her eyes sparkling with playful defiance. "Stop, go away"she managed to say before he captured her lips again, this time more teasingly.

"Okay, I'll first remove your hand," he said, glancing at her palm that now covered her lips like a shield.

Aarushi shook her head, her expression a mix of challenge and delight. "No, you won't. I know you too well."

"Please?"he pleaded, a mock smile forming on his lips.

Her resolve faltered for a moment, but then she shook her head again, a determined look in her eyes that made him want to laugh.

"Fine,"he said with exaggerated resignation, stepping back. "I am going. Kaise biwi hai apne pati ko aaram se ek kiss bhi nahi kerne deti" As he turned to leave, he felt a strange mix of disappointment and playfulness.

He'd grown to cherish these moments, where their playful banter wove them together in a way that felt almost sacred.

He stepped outside, the sound of her giggling sound trailing behind him.

Aarushi leaned against the dresser, a smile creeping across her face as she picked up her lipstick. She bit her lower lip, glancing at the mirror.

With practiced ease, she began to reapply her lipstick, focusing on the reflection that stared back at her-a reflection filled with warmth, love, and a hint of mischief.

But before she could finish, Abhimanyu's head popped back into the mirror, an impish grin plastered across his face. He tilted her head to the side, catching her off guard, and pressed a quick, unexpected smooch against her lips before darting back out.

Aarushi sat there, eyes wide in shock as her lipstick smudged again. "Abhi! I hate you so much" she shouted playfully, half-laughing, half-annoyed.

"I too love you, meri jaan" he called back, his voice echoing from the hallway, filled with affection. "Aaksh is already downstairs. Take care of yourself and don't forget to eat. Oh, and the flavor was great"

She shook her head, giggling softly as the sound of his footsteps faded away. Her heart raced as she thought about how easily he could turn a mundane moment into something special, something to cherish.

She glanced at herself in the mirror, her cheeks flushed pink, the warmth creeping up her neck as she thought about their playful exchanges. Abhimanyu had a way of making her feel cherished, adored.

Aarushi finished applying her lipstick, the color vibrant and soft, pairing perfectly with the bangles he had helped her wear. She caught sight of her reflection, the smile that graced her lips a testament to the happiness he brought into her life.

With a final glance in the mirror, she stepped out of the room, her heart still fluttering from the moments they had shared. There was a lightness in her step, a bounce that mirrored the playful banter they exchanged, and she felt ready to take on the world-especially if it meant sharing it with him.

Downstairs, the aroma of breakfast lingered in the air, and she spotted Vivaan, lounging on the couch, scrolling through his phone. His eyes flicked up as she entered, and he raised an eyebrow.

"Someone's looking radiant today; what's the matter, bhabhi," he said, a teasing smile tugging at his lips.

"Nothing, just had a good start to the day," she replied, her voice light.

The morning sun streamed through the windows of the staff room, casting warm patches of light on the worn wooden desks. I stepped in, my bag slung over one shoulder, feeling the usual mix of excitement and nerves that came with another day of teaching.

The air buzzed with chatter, punctuated by laughter and the morning chaos.

"Hey, Aarushi"Priya's voice cut through the din, pulling me toward the small gathering in the corner.

I approached, curiosity piqued. Standing beside Priya were Mrs Mamta and two other teachers, their faces lit up with an unmistakable glow.

"What's going on?" I asked, a smile creeping onto my face as I greeted everyone.

"Guess what?" Priya leaned in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Miss Mamta is pregnant!"

I gasped, my hands flying to cover my mouth. "Oh my god, really?"I dashed forward, wrapping my arms around Mamta in an enthusiastic hug.

"Congratulations! You look radiant"

The blush creeping up Mamta's cheeks made her look even more beautiful. "Thank you, Aarushi"

"Wow" I said, stepping back to admire her. "You've got that glow, you know?"

Everyone gives her a teasing smile.

"Stop it," she laughed, swatting my arm playfully. "I still have to deal with morning sickness, but it's worth it."

"Two kids, huh? You really had a nice vacation" I teased, and the others joined in with their playful banter.

"Yes, and I'm worried about the chaos!" She laughed, but the glimmer in her eyes showed how much she cherished the idea.

"Just think of all the fun you'll have with two little ones running around," Priya leaned closer and whispered conspiratorially in my ear, "So, what's the plan? When will I become an aunt?"

I felt my cheeks heat up, a nervous laugh escaping my lips. "Shut up," I whispered back, but the teasing glint in her eyes made me want to hide.

"Come on, at least tell me....what's your plan for your honeymoon?" she persisted, waggling her eyebrows.

"Seriously, Priya, can we not?" I shot back, but the playful banter only made my heart race.

After congratulating Mamta again, we all moved to our respective corners of the staff room as the bell rang, signaling the start of morning prayer.

"Let me just put my bag in the almirah first," I said, heading to my usual spot. But as I reached the wooden cabinet, a wave of thoughts crashed over me like a sudden tide.

Abhimanyu and I had never talked about kids. Not really. I was still so young, and to be honest, the thought of it terrified me. I didn't want to jump into that kind of responsibility just yet. But then again, things had been heating up between us.

I remembered our one-month anniversary, how we'd returned home, the air thick with anticipation. I had just closed the door when we kissed, passion igniting like wildfire.

The memory flooded back with vivid clarity. His lips were soft yet demanding, and we lost ourselves in that moment, our hands exploring, pulling each other closer until my fingers brushed against the buttons of his shirt.

Then, suddenly, he pulled away, his expression shifting from desire to something else entirely.

"Wait,-"he stammered, retreating to the bathroom and slamming the door shut behind him.

I stood there, breathless, heart racing, staring at the closed door. What had just happened?

A wave of heat rushed to my neck as I shook off the memory, biting my lower lip. Why had he stopped? Why had I let it get that far, only to have it suddenly cut off?

"Why are you so desperate?" my subconscious chimed in, its tone teasing."Me? Desperate ?"I muttered under my breath, frowning at myself. "It's not like that. Its just -just... I don't know."

With a huff, I shoved my thoughts aside and placed my bag inside the almirah, forcing myself to focus. I couldn't let myself spiral.

I stepped out of the staff room, headed toward the ground for morning prayer, the sound of the bell still ringing in my ears.

As I walked, my heart still raced, my mind flickering back to Abhimanyu's warm gaze, the way he looked at me when he thought I wasn't watching, but he didn't know that I noticed everything...There was something special between us, something worth exploring, but this was not the time to dwell on it.

The students were gathering outside, their chatter filling the air with a different kind of energy, one that I loved. Their excitement pulled me back to the present, and I forced a smile onto my face.

After some time ~

Principal sir called every teacher in his office but didn't tell us the reason.

As I made my way toward the office, I noticed Priya striding alongside me, her brow furrowed in curiosity.

"Do you have any idea why we've been called?" she asked, her voice a whisper, as if the walls had ears.

"I have no idea" I replied, glancing around. "Maybe it's about the new curriculum? Or perhaps there's been another complaint about something "

As we entered the office, the principal stood at the front, his hands clasped together, a serious expression on his face. The other teachers murmured in anticipation, their faces a mix of intrigue and concern.

"Thank you all for coming," he began, his voice booming above the whispers. "I want to introduce you to our new teacher, who will be taking Radhika Ma'am's place."

A man turned to face us, his presence immediately commanding attention. He was tall, with dark hair that fell just above his brow, and his sharp brown eyes scanned the room as he offered a small smile.

"I'm Arun,nice to meet you" he said, his voice smooth yet slightly guarded. "I am glad that I got a chance to work with you all ,I hope we will get along."

The teachers greeted him politely, though I couldn't help but notice a flicker of something in their eyes-was it suspicion? Because we haven't heard about any interview for new teacher. Did sir hire him without any interview or what?

When it was my turn to introduce myself, I stood a little straighter, meeting Arun's gaze. "I'm Aarushi," I said. He smiled back at me.

Once the introductions were over, the principal directed Arun toward his desk in the staff room "Here's your table and almirah. I'll provide your timetable and necessary materials tomorrow. For now, you should head to Class 4."Mrs. Ahuja informed to him.

As I moved to leave for my class, I heard Arun call out to me. "Excuse me, Aarushi Mam, could you tell me where Class 4 is?"

I turned and said with a small smile. "Sure, it's just down the hall. Class 4, all sections, are in the left wing.

"Thanks," he said, his expression thoughtful as he continued to regard me."By the way, how long have you been teaching here?"

"Just over two years," I replied, trying to keep my voice light despite the weight of his gaze. "It's a good school, though there are always challenges."

He nodded, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Challenges can be... interesting. Makes the job worthwhile, doesn't it?"

"Yeah, I suppose," I said, feeling a knot form in my stomach. I feel really awkward with strangers "But I have to go now. My class is waiting."

"Of course, I won't hold you up," he replied, though there was a lingering intensity in his tone that made me hesitate. "I'll see you around, Mam"

"Right," I mumbled, quickly moving away. As I walked to my classroom, I couldn't shake the feeling that Arun was too composed, too calculated.

Back in the staff room, the teachers were still buzzing with conversation, their voices a blend of excitement and skepticism.

"He looks handsome" Priya whispered to another teacher

"Yeah but He seems... different," the teacher replied, her brow furrowing. "I mean, he's new that's why we are feeling like this"

" Yes , he seems confident,Almost too confident for a new guy," priya said, glancing toward the door where Arun had exited.

Mrs. Ahuja, overhearing the conversation, chimed in. "Let's not jump to conclusions. He might just be a little... enthusiastic about his new position."

After forty minutes when the final bell rang, I gathered my things and made my way to the staff room, where I found Arun seated at his desk, flipping through a few papers. I hesitated at the door, feeling that familiar flutter of nerves.

"Hey, Aarushi "he called, glancing up with a smile that seemed genuine. "I was just trying to get a handle on the curriculum. Any tips?"

I stepped inside, trying to keep my tone casual. "Just focus on understanding the students first. They can be a handful. Just keep them engaged Sir"

He leaned back in his chair, studying me with those piercing eyes. "Engagement is key. I think I can manage that. What about you? What do you enjoy most about teaching?"

"It's rewarding to see them learn," I said honestly, feeling a warmth spread in my chest. "But it's tough sometimes. You have to wear so many hats-teacher, counselor, sometimes even a referee."

He laughed and said, " Correct; by the way, I think we'll make a good team, Aarush Mam. I really liked your vibe."

I tilted my head, intrigued but cautious. "Teamwork is important, but it's still early days. We'll see how it goes."

He nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Of course. I appreciate your honesty. It's refreshing." The moment stretched between us, the air charged with something unspoken.

Abhimanyu sat behind his polished desk. The office was a blend of modern sophistication and personal touches; a framed photos of him and Aarushi, a sleek laptop, and a collection of files.

Today, though, his mind was elsewhere. The remnants of last night's escapade loomed large, especially the memories of Rudra's reckless bravado and the embarrassing drinking challenge that had left him vulnerable.

With a sigh, he pressed the intercom button. He remembered that Aarushi ordered him to say thank you to Akash. He told her to let it be. There was no need, but she didn't listen. "Aakash, In my cabin"

"On my way, sir," Aakash replied, his voice crackling through the speaker.

Moments later, Aakash entered, his expression a mix of curiosity and trepidation. Abhimanyu rarely summoned him without reason, and when he did, it usually involved urgent matters or reflections of his unyielding nature.

"Thank you for taking me home last night," Abhimanyu said, the words feeling clumsy as they tumbled from his lips. There was an awkward pause that hung in the air, thick with surprise.

"Sir, it's okay-" Aakash began, his eyes widening in disbelief. "You never say thank you."

Abhimanyu shifted uncomfortably, he cleared his throat and said "My wife said I should"

"Right, i should have guessed it earlier" Aakash chuckled nervously and suddenly remembered his last night acts and said "But sir you know you were speaking like a kid, though, all wobbly and-"

"Enough," Abhimanyu snapped, his glare sharp enough to slice through the camaraderie. Aakash immediately bowed his head, eyes darting away.

"Sorry, sir." The PA backed away slightly, sensing the shift in Abhimanyu's mood-a familiar ebb and flow he had come to expect.

"You can go" Abhimanyu said curtly. Aakash exited, the door clicking shut behind him.

Alone, Abhimanyu leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking beneath him. He felt the tension in his chest tightens, a swell of frustration bubbling to the surface.

The laughter from last night echoed in his mind, mingling with the unease of Rudra's comment.

A few minutes passed before the door swung open again, this time revealing Rudra, his carefree demeanor a stark contrast to Abhimanyu's brooding posture.

"You called me? What's the matter?" Rudra plopped onto the couch, a curious smile already creeping onto his face.

Abhimanyu stood, fists clenched at his sides. "First of all, why did you lie to Aarushi? You told her that I forced you into that drinking competition."

Rudra waved a dismissive hand. "Brother, it's nothing. You forced me, I forced you-it's the same thing."

"Now tell me who that girl was you were rambling about in your drunken state. I don't care who she is but why did you say she lived in my house?"

The lightheartedness in Rudra's expression flickered, and he gulped, a nervous smile breaking through. "Did I say that? There's no one like that in my life. Just drunken nonsense, I swear."

Abhimanyu's eyes narrowed, studying Rudra's face, searching for any hint of the truth. "You're lying. Something is going on, isn't there? Who is she?"

Rudra shifted uncomfortably, the confidence draining from his posture. "Okay, there is someone, but she doesn't live in your house. I-I got confused, alright? Just drunk words."

Abhimanyu clenched his jaw, the tension filling the room. He knew Rudra was seeing someone-his sister, Navya, for a few months.

"Is it "he asked, his voice low and steady, the piercing gaze unyielding.

Rudra's flustered demeanor intensified as he fumbled for words. "Yes, it's true, Why would-"

Rudra's phone buzzed, breaking the tension like a knife through butter. "I have an important meeting," he said, rising quickly, relief flooding his features as he grabbed his phone. "Gotta go."

Abhimanyu sank back into his chair. How could Navya like someone like Rudra? He ran a hand through his hair, frustration morphing into concern.

She deserved better than the reckless charm of his friend.

"Why did she choose someone like him" he muttered to himself, the question hanging unanswered in the air. The office felt too quiet now.

Abhimanyu leaned back, crossing his arms tightly over his chest, each breath a reminder of the stakes at play.

In evening~

The soft, gentle hum of the evening breeze filled the room as Abhimanyu carefully wove his fingers through Aarushi's hair, his touch light and gentle as he began the intricate task of braiding.

Aarushi, perched on the edge of the dressing table, was a vision of contentment, her eyes closed in relaxation as she leaned back, trusting Abhimanyu with her most prized possession.

"So, tell me about your day," Abhimanyu's voice was a soothing melody, his eyes never leaving the task at hand. He wanted to know every detail, every moment that had brought a smile to her face or a frown to her brow.

Aarushi sighed contentedly, "It was a rather uneventful day, but I did meet a new teacher at school today. His name is Arun, and he seems quite different but quite confident "

Abhimanyu's fingers paused for a moment, his curiosity piqued. "Oh?"

"You know he suddenly joined today, but we didn't hear about any interview for the post," She said.

As Abhimanyu continued braiding, his focus never wavered, but his mind wandered to the new teacher, Arun. .

"And what more" Abhimanyu's voice was filled with warmth and affection.Aarushi continued to rant to him about her day at work and how she spent her evening with Badi Ma and Chachi.

Abhimanyu's fingers moved with a gentle rhythm, creating a beautiful braid that framed Aarushi's face.

As he finished the braid, Abhimanyu stepped back to admire his handiwork. The braid was perfect, just as Aarushi liked it-light and loose.

But as he stepped back, he noticed a few stray hairs that had escaped his meticulous braiding.

"Abhi, you left a few strands out again," Aarushi said with a smile, pointing to the stray hairs. "It's okay, though. I quite like the way it looks."

"Oh, how did I leave them? Let me fix that for you," Abhimanyu said, his voice filled with a mix of concern and adoration. He gently gathered the stray hairs and began braiding them back into the main braid, his fingers moving with a gentle, loving touch.

As he completed his work, Aarushi stood up from the dressing table and walked over to the bed. She sat down, patting the space beside her, inviting Abhimanyu to join her. Abhimanyu, with a smile, obliged, laying down on the bed and resting his head on Aarushi's lap.

"Did you drink that khada today or not ?" Aarushi asked, her fingers gently massaging Abhimanyu's head, sending waves of relaxation through his body.

"Yes, it's really helping" Abhimanyu replied, his voice filled with gratitude.

He sighed deeply, feeling the tension melt away as Aarushi's gentle touch worked its magic.

"I knew it ,I'm glad to hear that. I want you to get all the rest you need, especially with your busy schedule," Aarushi said, her voice soft and caring. She continued to massage his head, her fingers moving in a soothing rhythm.

Abhimanyu closed his eyes, enjoying the moment, the warmth of Aarushi's lap, and the gentle caress of her fingers. He felt a deep sense of peace and contentment, a feeling that he had found his home in Aarushi's arms.

After a few moments of silence, Aarushi spoke again, "By the way, did you thank Akash bhai for yesterday"

Abhimanyu opened his eyes, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Yes, I did. It was a bit awkward, but I managed"

Aarushi giggled, "Good,It's important to show appreciation for such helpful gestures."Abhimanyu nodded at her words.

A moment of silence passed between them, a comfortable silence filled with the sound of their gentle breathing and the soft hum of the evening breeze. Then, Aarushi spoke again, her voice filled with excitement.

"Holi is coming up soon, Are you excited?"

Abhimanyu paused, a hint of a frown appearing on his face. "Not particularly, but are you?"

Aarushi's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Of course, I am! I love Holi! And Diwali, too. Actually, I love all festivals. There's just something so special about celebrating with loved ones, don't you think?"

Abhimanyu smiled, his heart warming at Aarushi's childlike excitement. "If you are then I am also excited"

As Aarushi continued to ramble on about her love for festivals and the traditions associated with them, Abhimanyu's eyes drifted to her chest.

He felt a sudden, intense urge to touch her, to feel the softness of her skin, and to explore the curves that he had only imagined in his dreams.

His breath quickened slightly, and he licked his lips, his gaze fixed on her chest. But before he could act on his impulses, he quickly averted his gaze, feeling a mix of excitement and guilt.

He knew that Aarushi was still young, and they had only been married around two months. She might not be ready for such intimacy, and he didn't want to rush her or make her uncomfortable.

Aarushi, sensing his sudden shift in attention, looked at him curiously. "Abhi, are you listening to me?"

Abhimanyu, startled out of his thoughts, looked up at Aarushi with a mix of nervousness and adoration. "Yes, Please, continue."

Aarushi smiled, her eyes twinkling with understanding and she continued her rants.Abhimanyu reached out for her hand and started playing with her fingers, pressing a kiss in between.

The room was filled with a warm, loving silence as they held each other's hands, their hearts connected in a bond of love and understanding.

____________________________________________________________________________

Holi special chapter and smut soon......

Thank you

Love you 💌