Chapter 10

A new journey had begun—one woven with the threads of love. Sidharth and Shehnaz, two pure souls, had crossed paths and found their hearts entwined in the most beautiful way.

It was a quiet Sunday morning when Anu and Rita ji decided to go shopping. They left, deliberately leaving Shehnaz behind. Her excuse of feeling unwell was just a pretext, as they wanted to give Sidharth and Shehnaz a chance to spend time together.

As Shehnaz walked down the corridor, lost in her thoughts, she was suddenly lifted into the air by a pair of strong, familiar arms. The surprise and fear made her heart race, and her hands instinctively wrapped around his neck to prevent herself from falling.

“Sir aap…” she gasped, her voice trembling slightly.

“mera naam Sidharth hai..,” he replied, his tone casual as he didn’t even glance at her, instead continuing to walk with her in his arms.

Her mind raced with anxiety, dreading the possibility of someone seeing them. “Niche utariye na mujhe…”

He smirked, the corners of his mouth curving upwards as he carried her to his room. He nudged the door closed with his back, the soft thud of the latch clicking shut resonating in the quiet space.

Shehnaz was acutely aware of her surroundings now, realizing she had never been to this part of the house before. Her cheeks flushed with a deep crimson as she guessed that this must be his bedroom. The realization sent a flurry of emotions through her.

Sidharth gently placed her on the bed, his fingers brushing lightly against her rosy cheeks. The tender touch made her shiver, and she looked down, her breath catching in her throat. “You have been told to rest, which you are not doing, so now rest here. If you get out of bed…”

Shehnaz’s face was a portrait of bashful discomfort. The thought of sitting on his bed sent shivers down her spine, making her cheeks heat up even more. “Aap samajhate kyu nahi…” She tried to sound stern, but her voice betrayed her, coming out as endearing and soft.

Sidharth could barely contain his emotions. He leaned in closer, his eyes locked onto hers. “I’m going to get freshened up. If I come back and find you not asleep, you’ll be in trouble.”

Shehnaaz nodded way too quickly, scared by his aura.. her action made sidharth want to crush her within his embrace.. Bending down, he placed a tender peck against her forehead and left to washroom, leaving a melted shehnaaz behind.

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A new day dawned for Sidharth, a day filled with unexpected happiness that showed on his face as he walked into the office. Everyone noticed the change, their surprised glances mirroring the contentment radiating from him.

He took his seat in his cabin, his gaze drifting to the glass where Shehnaz was trying to shield her face from him. She was adamant about working despite feeling better, and he knew they needed to have a conversation. They had been so close yet so distant, not really opening up to each other. He decided it was time to change that and planned a dinner where they could talk and understand each other better.

Shehnaz, despite her efforts to concentrate, could feel his gaze piercing through the door. The intensity of his attention was overwhelming, and she couldn’t believe this was happening. She thought he would never love her—after all, she was just an ordinary girl from Mohali, while he was a prominent figure. “Offoo… agar ye mujhe aise hi ghurte rahenge toh main pagal ho jaungi… sacchhii…” She mumbled to herself, unable to handle the situation, and hurried out of her cabin with a file, heading towards Anu’s cabin.

At the end of the day, after what felt like an endless game of hide and seek, Sidharth walked into her cabin. The sight of her startled face was almost comical.

“Ye…yess sirrr…” She stuttered, her eyes wide with surprise.

Sidharth strode over to her, gently guiding her back into her seat before leaning in close. His eyes locked onto hers, and she blinked rapidly, her heart pounding in her chest.

“agar pura din mujhse chhupakar ho gaya ho, then you’re not leaving with Anu,” he said, his voice firm but laced with a hint of mischief.

Shehnaz’s expression shifted from one of guilt to confusion, her mind racing to catch up.

“Secondly,” Sidharth continued, “at 8:30, I want you downstairs in my car. I’ll be waiting.”

“Kkkkkkkyuunnnn” she stammered, unable to break the intense eye contact. His gaze was unwavering as he said, “Sharp 8:30pm.” He leaned in even closer, almost touching her lips with his breath. “Samjhi tum…” His lips brushed hers as he spoke, and with a smirk, he left her there, her face hidden in her palms, overwhelmed by the sudden surge of emotions.

_______________

They arrived at their farmhouse, a little retreat just outside the city. The serene setting of the garden area created an intimate atmosphere as they sat across from each other at the dining table.

Sidharth watched as Shehnaz’s eyes sparkled with surprise and delight. The smile on her lips was a constant presence as she looked at her plate. He rested his hand on top of hers, drawing her gaze to meet his.

“You liked it?” he asked softly.

Shehnaz nodded, her smile widening. “Haan, bahut accha lag raha hai.”

Sidharth sighed, a mixture of relief and affection in his eyes. “Shehnaz… I know this is all new and sudden. I’ve already told you how I feel. I like you and want to spend the rest of my life with you. It’s important for us to communicate openly if we want this relationship to grow. Tell me what you feel…”

Shehnaz listened intently, absorbing his words. She realized he was right; if she wanted to build a future with him, she had to open up. Despite his introverted nature, he was making an effort, and she needed to do the same. “Sidharth…” she began, her voice trembling with emotion, “Pehli hi nazar mein, maine aapko apna maan liya. Jo main aapke liye feel karti hoon, woh kisi ke liye nahi kiya. Kabhi kisiko apne kareeb aane nahi diya. Mujhe lagta tha hum dono kabhi nahi mil sakte, kyunki main kaun hoon… Mohali ke ek chhote se ghar ki ek ladki… aur aap… har ladki aapko paana chahti hai.” He smirked at her, his expression softening. “Aapke samne mera brain hang ho jata hai. Main kya karoon… aap paas hote hain toh meri dhadkan tez ho jati hai, tummy me tickles hone lagte hain… Aise toh main pagal ho jaungi…”

Lost in her ramblings, Shehnaz didn’t realize he had moved from his seat and was now standing behind her.

She hid her face in her palms, mortified by her own words. Sidharth’s laughter was warm and comforting as he wrapped his arms around her from behind, placing a gentle kiss on her hair. “Agar tumne kabhi bhi khudko change kiya na… I’ll kill you, I swear.”

His words filled her with such joy that she pushed herself away from him, breaking the embrace only to hide her face in his arms. He hugged her tightly, his surprise evident. Their imperfections made them perfect for each other, completing one another in the most endearing way.

He instructed the staff to reheat the food and served them both. As they ate, Shehnaz shared stories about her life—her school days, her friends, her family, and her brother. She hesitated to mention Raj, not wanting to spoil their first dinner. Sidharth listened attentively and revealed a bit about his past, mentioning a previous relationship that ended badly, but he chose not to elaborate further.

After dinner, Sidharth settled into a resting chair and beckoned her to join him. With a soft smile, she placed her hand in his, and he pulled her into his lap. She looked at him with surprise as her fingers clung to his shirt—a small gesture he adored.

As she glanced around nervously, Sidharth gently tilted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. “Koi nahi hai…”

For the first time, Shehnaz looked into his eyes without shying away. The depth and warmth of his gaze made him feel possessive. “I love your eyes…”

“Sachhii…” Shehnaz’s eyes widened with genuine excitement. her cheeks burning with blush..

Sidharth playfully pinched her cheeks, causing her to wince, and then wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer until her head rested on his chest. Their faces brushed together, creating a tender, yet strong connection.

Sidharth’s face nestled into her neck as he closed his eyes, savoring the moment of peace. Blushing, Shehnaz took a deep breath. “Sidharth…”

“Haan baby…” he murmured, not letting her move an inch away.

and she was a gone case….

_______________

Time flowed seamlessly as Sidharth and Shehnaz nurtured their burgeoning relationship, each day strengthening their bond.

Sidharth had long realized that his feelings for Shehnaz had evolved beyond mere infatuation. She wasn’t just a source of joy; she was his sanctuary. Her presence was like a breath of fresh air, a beacon of hope for a brighter future together. He knew he couldn’t imagine his life without her.

In the office, he still scolded her with his usual gruffness and jokingly threatened her with resignation. He relished the fiery glares she gave him in response, her defiant attitude adding a unique charm to their interactions. Watching her open up to him made him fall deeper in love. The more he got to know her, the more he saw her as the most endearing person he had ever met.

Sidharth adored her little quirks, her nonsensical ramblings, and her sweet rapport with Anu and his mother. She was a delightful mix of sweetness, care, understanding, childlike innocence, and maturity. Everything about her made his heart swell with affection.

Shehnaz was daydreaming about Sidharth when a knock on her door interrupted her thoughts. Tara walked in, her high heels clicking rhythmically, and informed her that Nisha had called and left.

Confused, Shehnaz went to Nisha’s cabin and knocked on the door. When she entered, she saw Nisha on the phone, so she waited quietly.

Once Nisha finished her call, she looked at Shehnaz with a taunting smile. “Kya baat hai? Aaj kal bohot khush lag rahi ho…”

Shehnaz was taken aback by the question. “Aisa kuch nahi hai, Mam…”

Nisha, uninterested in her response, continued, “Sidharth sir ne tumhe abhi tak job se nahi nikala. Tumse acche se baat karte hain. Anishka bhi tumhari dost ban gayi hai. Quite nice, haan?”

Shehnaz was puzzled by Nisha’s insinuation but didn’t like the tone of her words. “Mam, aap kya bol rahi hain? Main samajh nahi pa rahi…”

Nisha’s smile was cold and dismissive. “Of course. Tum toh innocent ho. Tumhe kuch samajh nahi aata. Lekin tum Sidharth ko pamper kar rahi ho—time to time coffee, answering him back. Tumhe kya lagta hai, main kuch notice nahi karti?” Shehnaz stood up, her face hardening. “Mam, kya aapne mujhe kisi kaam ke liye bulaya hai ya main chale jaoon?”

Nisha’s expression darkened. “Exactly. Tumhe yahan se chale jana chahiye. Tumhe Sidharth ki zindagi se nikal do. Jo sapne tum bun rahi ho na, kabhi pure nahi honge.” With that, Nisha shot her a venomous look.

Feeling deeply insulted, Shehnaz replied with a mixture of hurt and defiance. “Mujhe kya karna hai, kya nahi, main achhe se jaanti hoon, Mam. Aur rahi baat mere aur Sidharth sir ki, woh hum dekh lenge.”

Nisha was furious. “Exactly who the hell do you think you are?” Her eyes bore into Shehnaz’s.

Shehnaz smiled serenely. “Shehnaz…”

With that, Shehnaz walked out, leaving Nisha fuming with rage. Nisha paced back and forth, seething with anger as she called someone. “Mam, maine bahut koshish ki, par woh buzz nahi ho rahi. Haan, I know. Main kaam kar rahi hoon, please upset mat ho. Disconnecting the call, she almost threw her phone in frustration but managed to control herself.

Shehnaz, despite her calm exterior, felt deeply hurt by Nisha’s insinuations. It seemed Nisha was implying that she was pursuing Sidharth solely for his wealth.

As she walked down the corridor towards the restroom, she bumped into Sidharth. He gently held her, noticing the faraway look in her eyes. “You okay?”

Shehnaz’s eyes filled with tears as she looked at him but quickly looked away, heading towards the restroom, leaving Sidharth puzzled.

Unable to speak with her openly in the corridor, Sidharth waited for her to return to her cabin. Once she was inside, he asked her to come into his cabin with a notepad. After locking the door behind them, he took her hands in his, his eyes filled with concern. “What happened? Tell me.”

Shehnaz was overwhelmed. She couldn’t articulate her feelings but shook her head, trying to hold back her tears.

Sidharth, frustrated by her silence, pulled her into a tight embrace, his voice firm yet gentle. “I won’t tolerate you hiding something from me. Never lie to me again.”

Shehnaz, comforted by his embrace, rested her head on his chest. “Udaas hoon…”

“Kyu, baby? That’s what I’m asking.” He gently lifted her chin to meet his gaze.

Shehnaz’s voice trembled as she asked, “Aapko aisa toh nahi lagta ki main aapke saath isliye hoon kyunki aap rich ho…”

Sidharth looked at her, taken aback by the question. “Kisine tumhe kuch kaha kya?”

“Offoo… bolo na,” she urged, looking up at him.

Sidharth’s eyes softened as he reassured her, “Of course not, baby. Tumhe lagta hai main aisa sochunga? Nahi na?”

Shehnaz nodded, resting her head on his chest again, feeling a sense of relief. It was foolish of her to think that way, she realized. Nisha’s words had affected her more than she had anticipated.

Suddenly, Sidharth took her by the hand and guided her to the adjacent washroom. “Aap kya kar rahe hain?” She asked, bewildered.

Without replying, Sidharth positioned her in front of a large mirror and took out a box from his pocket. He delicately placed S-shaped earrings in her ears, replacing the old ones, tumpar humesha mera naam rahega..” his possessiveness over powering.

A smile played on her lips as she surrendered to his tender gestures. “But S for Shehnaz bhi ho sakta hai na?” she mumbled, lost in his embrace.

“Hmmm…” he whispered back softly, unsure if she heard him.

Leaning in, Sidharth placed a gentle kiss on her ear. Shehnaz turned her face slightly, giving him more space, as he murmured, “Sidharth aur Shehnaz ek hi hai…”

His words were like sweet nectar to her heart. She cocooned in his arms, whispering, “Hayy rabba, ek hi dil hai… kitni baar jitoge…”

He laughed softly, letting her go as she looked at him with a tender smile. “Your fault, you called for this…”

With that, he sealed his lips against hers, leaving her in stunned silence. The kiss was passionate, and Shehnaz felt a wave of relief and joy wash over her.

_________________

Feeling much better now, Shehnaz prepared to leave for Zoya’s house. It was Friday, and as everyone gathered for dinner, Shehnaz quietly told Rita ji, “Aunty ji, main kal wapas Zoya ke ghar jaane ka soch rahi hoon.”

Rita ji looked at her with concern, while Sidharth’s face showed his shock. Aryan sighed, Anu made a baby face, and Kajal and Manish watched the scene with interest.

“Etni jaldi, beta? Kuch din aur ruk jao na…” Rita ji’s tone was pleading. She had seen the happiness on Sidharth’s face since Shehnaz arrived and didn’t want her to leave.

“Maa is right, Sana. Ruk ja na yaar,” Anu urged, glancing at her brother who had stopped eating.

“Aunty ji, ab main bilkul theek hoon… sachii…” Shehnaz insisted.

Sidharth, having barely eaten, excused himself, stating he was done. Rita ji sighed, understanding the reason, while Shehnaz watched him leave, worried.

Rita ji looked at Shehnaz with a gentle smile. “Please, beta, kuch din aur ruko. Humein achha lagta hai tumhare sath waqt bitana.”

Shehnaz was unsure. Back in her bedroom, she tried calling Sidharth, but he kept disconnecting. She sent him messages, but there was no reply.

Sighing, she sat on her bed, feeling uncertain about what to do. She felt regretful for upsetting him but knew she had to go. Upset, she fell asleep when her phone rang.

Expecting it to be Sidharth, she was surprised to see Rajbeer’s name. “Raj… sastriyakal… itni raat ko call? Sab theek hai?”

Raj’s voice was reassuring. “Sastriyakal… sab changa hai. Tension mat lo. Main kal dopahar ko Mumbai pahuch raha hoon.”

The news excited Shehnaz instantly. “Haan, sachii?”

Raj continued, “Haan, mere tauji ka beta aane wala hai lene, toh main tumhe Sunday milunga.”

Sunday? Shehnaz thought, her mind racing as she remembered the promise she had made to Sidharth a few days ago.

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Author’s Note

Hello, dear readers!

I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it. Each moment between Sidharth and Shehnaz is crafted with care, reflecting their deepening bond and the challenges they face together. Their journey is a blend of love, uncertainty, and personal growth, and your support means the world to me.

Your comments and feedback are incredibly valuable, so please share your thoughts. They inspire me to continue weaving their story with even more passion and detail.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Don’t forget to vote and stay tuned for the next chapter!

Also, stay tuned for “Baarish,”  along with the rest of the stories. There’s so much more in store, and I can’t wait for you to dive into these new adventures.

Don’t forget to follow me on  Wattpad, Instagram and Youtube  for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your support on these platforms helps keep the creativity flowing.

With love and gratitude,

Shalaka

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