Where every word breathes Love….

Chapter 18

Rajender ji was sitting on the bed, deeply engrossed in a file, his brows furrowed in concentration. The room was quiet, save for the faint rustle of papers, until the soft sound of footsteps broke the silence. He looked up, and his gaze fell on Madhu ji, who had just walked in, all dressed up. The sight of her in a saree, her hair neatly tied, and her face adorned with subtle makeup, caught him off guard. He hadn’t seen her like this in a long time, and for a moment, he felt a pang of nostalgia. But before he could say anything, Madhu ji walked past him without so much as a glance, her expression distant, almost cold.
 

Rajender ji’s eyes followed her as she headed towards the wardrobe to change. There was a time when her mere presence would bring warmth into the room, when her soft smile and gentle touch would soothe his worries. But now, there was a wall between them, one that had been slowly building ever since that fateful day. He sighed deeply, a mix of regret and sadness weighing heavily on his heart. He knew he had made a mistake, that he had let his anger get the better of him when it came to Shehnaaz.

By the time Madhu ji returned, her face freshly washed, and her attire now more comfortable, Rajender ji had put the file aside. He watched her as she sat down at the dressing table, applying moisturizer on her face with methodical precision. The silence between them was deafening, filled with all the unsaid words, the unspoken pain.

“Tumne mujhe bataya nahi tum koi function attend karne ja rahi ho… kiska function tha?” Rajender ji’s voice broke the silence, his tone gentle, almost hesitant.

“Meri ek old friend ka function tha…” Madhu ji replied, her voice devoid of any warmth, as if she was talking to a stranger. She didn’t look at him, didn’t acknowledge the softness in his tone. She continued with her routine, her movements robotic, as though she was going through the motions without really being there.

Rajender ji’s heart ached at the coldness in her voice, the distance in her eyes. This wasn’t the woman he had shared his life with for so many years, the woman who had stood by him through thick and thin. This was someone else, someone who had built a fortress around her heart, shutting him out completely. He knew why. Ever since Shehnaaz had left the house, things had changed between them. Madhu ji had stopped looking at him, stopped speaking to him like they had any bond left. It was as if the thread that held them together had frayed, leaving only a fragile connection that threatened to snap at any moment.

He sighed again, feeling the weight of his mistakes pressing down on him. He knew he had overreacted, that his anger towards Shehnaaz had been unfair, misplaced. But he had been too proud, too stubborn to admit it. And now, it seemed like it was too late. But he couldn’t let things go on like this. He couldn’t lose Madhu ji, not like this.

Gathering his courage, he walked towards her, his hand reaching out to hold hers, to bridge the gap that had grown between them. But the moment his fingers touched hers, Madhu ji snapped her hand away, her reaction sharp, almost as if his touch burned her.

Rajender ji’s eyes widened in shock, the rejection stinging more than he had expected. He looked at her, his voice laced with hurt, “Ab aur kab tak baat nahi karogi mujhse? Kya ek baap apni beti par gussa bhi nahi ho sakta…?”

But his words only seemed to fuel the fire in Madhu ji’s eyes. She turned to him, her gaze fierce, her voice trembling with anger, “Baap? Kaunse hakk ki baat kar rahe ho Raj? Kaunsa farz nibhaya hai tumne baap hone ka…?”

Her words hit him like a blow, each one piercing through his defenses, leaving him raw, exposed. He had always prided himself on being a good father, on doing what he thought was best for his family. But hearing Madhu ji’s words, the bitterness in her voice, made him question everything.

“Tum kehna kya chahti ho… mene baap hone ka farz nahi nibhaya…?” He glared back, his voice rising, not in anger but in desperation. He needed to understand, needed to know where he had gone wrong, why the woman he loved, the woman who had always stood by him, was now looking at him with such disdain.

Madhu ji stood firm, her voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling inside her. She wasn’t fazed by Rajender ji’s anger, her resolve unshaken. “Apne bachhe ko financially support karne se ek baap ke saare farz poore nahi hote, Raj,” she began, her words sharp yet laced with a deep sorrow. “Ek bachhe ko jitni maa ki zarurat hoti hai, utni hi apne pita ki zarurat hoti hai…”

As she spoke, tears welled up in her eyes, the weight of years of pent-up pain and frustration pressing down on her heart. Her voice trembled, but she didn’t stop. “Jab Shehnaaz ne apna first day school kiya… tum the waha? Jab usne apni scholarships payi… tum the waha? Jab woh cycle se giri… tum the waha? Jab usne apna education complete kiya with distinction… tum the waha? Jab usne apni first salary donate ki for a good cause… tum the waha?”

Her voice grew louder, the pain transforming into anger as she let out everything she had kept bottled up for so long. “Tum kahin nahi the… kabhi nahi the. You know why? Because you were always busy growing up your business… Paisa important hai, I know… par kis had tak?”

Rajender ji stood there, frozen in place, her words hitting him like a barrage of arrows. He had always believed he was doing the right thing, working tirelessly to provide for his family. But now, hearing Madhu ji’s words, he realized how much he had missed, how absent he had been in the moments that truly mattered.

“Main yeh nahi keh rahi ki tum Sana ya Mahi se pyaar nahi karte… par pyaar jatana padta hai, Raj,” she continued, her voice cracking with emotion. “Sana zindagi bhar tarsi tumhare waqt ke liye… jo tumne use kabhi nahi diya.”

Rajender ji was stunned, the reality of her words sinking in. He had always thought that his financial support and hard work were enough, that they were proof of his love. But now, standing in front of Madhu ji, he realized how wrong he had been. Love wasn’t just about providing; it was about being there, about sharing moments, about showing that you cared.

“Sana hamesha tumhare pyaar ke liye tarasti rahi… Arjun uska best friend tha, but she never loved him… sirf tumhare khatir usne shaadi ke liye haan ki thi… kyunki woh tumhe impress karna chahti thi…” Madhu ji’s voice broke, her tears now flowing freely, each one a testament to the pain she had carried for so long.

“Aur tumne kya kiya, Raj…?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, the hurt in her tone cutting through the air like a knife. “Humari bacchhi hai na woh… use akela kar diya… tab jab usse sabse zyada hamari zarurat thi… kaunse maa baap aisa karte hain?”

Rajender ji’s face had gone pale, the brutal reality of her words crashing down on him like a tidal wave. He had pushed Shehnaaz away, left her to fend for herself when she needed him the most. The guilt gnawed at him, each word from Madhu ji a reminder of his failings as a father.

“Agar usse kuch ho jata toh… she was depressed, Raj… agar depression mein woh koi galat kadam utha leti toh… tumhe ek pal ke liye bhi dar nahi laga, Raj?” Madhu ji’s voice broke completely now, her sobs filling the room as she finally let go of the pain she had been holding onto for so long.

Rajender ji stood frozen as Madhu ji’s words sank deep into his conscience, each sentence tearing away at the defensive wall he had built over the years. He had always thought that providing financial stability was the best way to show love and care. He never realized how much he had missed, how many moments he had let slip by, moments that mattered more than any deal he had ever closed.

Rajender ji’s heart clenched painfully as Madhu ji’s words continued to echo in his mind, the full weight of them sinking in like a heavy stone. His face, once full of color, turned ashen, and a cold sweat began to form on his brow. The reality of what she had said, of what could have happened, gripped him with a terror unlike anything he had ever known. His hands began to tremble uncontrollably as the horrific thought took root in his mind.

What if Shehnaaz had done something drastic? What if, in her loneliness and despair, she had felt so utterly abandoned that she believed she had no one left to turn to—not even her own father? The mere possibility was too terrifying to bear, and yet it was now all he could think about. The thought of losing his daughter to such a dark place, to a pain so deep that it swallowed her whole, filled him with a regret so profound it felt like it was ripping him apart from the inside.

Tears welled up in Rajender ji’s eyes, blurring his vision as he sat down heavily on the bed, his legs unable to support him any longer. His mind was racing, a whirlwind of memories and guilt. How had he let it come to this? How had he, a father who loved his children more than anything, failed to see the turmoil in his daughter’s heart? He had always believed that everything he did was for his family’s betterment—every late night, every business trip, every sacrifice was for them. He was building a stable future, ensuring they never lacked anything. But in his relentless pursuit of security and success, he had lost sight of the most important thing: being present in his children’s lives when they needed him the most.

Shehnaaz… his little girl. The same Shehnaaz who used to run to him with every scraped knee, who would light up with joy at the smallest sign of his approval. The same Shehnaaz who had always sought his validation, who had worked so hard, achieved so much, just to make him proud. How could he have been so blind to her suffering? How could he have let her feel so unloved, so alone, that she was willing to marry someone she didn’t even love, just to earn his affection?

Rajender ji’s chest tightened painfully as a flood of memories overwhelmed him—moments when Shehnaaz, with her bright eyes and infectious enthusiasm, would eagerly tell him about her day, her small victories, her dreams. He remembered how he would often nod absently, too absorbed in his work or too tired to really listen. He never meant to push her away, never meant to hurt her, but now he could see that’s exactly what he had done.

His breath hitched as he whispered to himself, his voice cracking under the weight of his guilt, “I said those words in anger… I didn’t mean them. She’s my daughter… my baby girl… how did I let it get this bad?”

Panicked, Rajender ji’s hands trembled as he fumbled to pull his phone from his pocket, desperate to call Shehnaaz. His heart pounded in his chest, racing with fear and regret, as the need to hear her voice, to make things right, consumed him. But just as he was about to dial, Madhu ji quickly reached out and snatched the phone from his hand.

Stunned, Rajender ji looked at his wife, his eyes wide with confusion and a hint of hurt. “Sana… ab mujhse baat nahi karna chahti? Kabhi baat nahi karegi mujhse?” His voice cracked as the words spilled out, his deepest fear suddenly surfacing. The thought that his daughter might never speak to him again sent a shiver down his spine, and his heart clenched painfully.

Madhu ji, seeing the desperation in his eyes, felt her own heart ache. She knew how much he was suffering, how hard the realization of his mistakes had hit him. But she also knew that now was not the right time for him to reach out to Shehnaaz. Tomorrow was her wedding day, and she couldn’t risk overwhelming her daughter with an emotional conversation that might unsettle her even more.

She gently pulled him into a tight embrace, holding him close as if trying to absorb some of his pain. “No, Raj,” she whispered softly, her voice filled with both reassurance and sadness. “She is your Sana… she can never give up on you. But right now, she needs her space. Let her have it. I’ll speak to her first, and then I’ll bring her home so that you can meet her.”

Rajender ji’s face softened, but his eyes remained clouded with worry. “Bring her back home… woh tumhari baat nahi talegi… use ghar vaapas le aao… uske bina… mujhe ghar vapas ane ka bhi man nahi karta, Madhu…” His voice broke as he spoke, the weight of his emotions pressing down on him. He couldn’t bear the thought of returning to a house that felt empty without his daughter’s presence, without her laughter and warmth filling every corner.

Madhu ji’s heart ached for her husband.. she couldn’t tell him that their daughter will never return home now.. their baby who used to run around her house is now grown up and getting married tomorrow.. she knew Rajender will be broken when he will know the truth..

“Raj,” she began gently, choosing her words with care, “if she wants to stay with Sanju for some time… let her be. It’s time we start respecting her opinions… her wishes too… don’t you think?”

Rajender ji nodded slowly, his heart heavy with sorrow. He knew she was right, but that didn’t make it any easier to accept. He sat down on the edge of the bed, his shoulders slumped, as the weight of everything pressed down on him. “I miss her, Madhu,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. “I miss her so much…”

Madhu ji gently placed her hand on Rajender ji’s shoulder, her eyes soft with understanding. “I’ve seen how much you miss her, Raj. You may not have said it out loud, but I’ve noticed the way you look at her pictures, the way you pause when something reminds you of her.”

Rajender ji nodded, his throat tightening with emotion. “I thought I was doing the right thing by being strict and pushing her to be strong, but I didn’t realize I was pushing her away. She was always so determined to make me proud, and I never even gave her the chance to feel that she had succeeded.”

Madhu ji squeezed his hand, her voice filled with both love and firmness. “You’ve realized your mistake, and that’s the first step, Raj. But now, we need to be patient. Shehnaaz is in a delicate place right now. Let her breathe. Let her find her peace.”

Rajender ji looked at Madhu ji, a flicker of desperation still in his eyes. “But what if she doesn’t forgive me? What if she never comes back?”

“She will,” Madhu ji assured him, her voice steady and calm. “She loves you, Raj. Beneath all her pain and anger, she’s still your little Sana. But this time, we need to give her the space to heal on her own terms. When she’s ready, she’ll come to you. And when that time comes, you can tell her everything you feel.”

Rajender ji nodded amidst tears, his emotions overwhelming him as he pulled Madhu ji into a tight embrace. In that moment, he found the strength he desperately needed, not just from his wife’s comforting presence but from the deep love and understanding that had always been the foundation of their relationship.

Madhu ji held him close, her hand gently stroking his back as she whispered soothing words. “We’ll get through this together, Raj. We’ll be there for her when she needs us.”

________________

Life is unpredictable.

Kab zindagi kaunsa mod lele ye koi nahi bata sakta…

That’s the thought that echoed in Shehnaaz’s mind as she gazed at her reflection in the mirror. The woman staring back at her was dressed in a stunning pearl bridal lehenga that made her look nothing short of ethereal. She knew she looked beautiful, radiant even, but there was an underlying sadness in her eyes that no amount of finery could hide.

Shehnaaz’s lips curved into a sad smile. The lehenga, which should have symbolized joy and new beginnings, felt heavy with memories. There had been a time, not so long ago, when she had excitedly gone shopping for a bridal lehenga, full of dreams and anticipation. But then that accident happened, and everything—her life, her hopes, her heart—had changed in ways she could never have imagined.

And now, here she was, dressed as a bride once again, on the verge of a new chapter. She wished her father were there too, holding her hand, telling her that everything would be alright. But she knew better.

“I miss you, Dad,” she whispered to herself, her heart heavy with unspoken words. “You told me never to come back home, and after today, I won’t. After today, it won’t be my home anymore… maybe it never was.”

The weight of those words settled deep in her chest, making it hard to breathe. Shehnaaz had always known she was strong, but in this moment, she felt an overwhelming sense of loss. The home she had once cherished, the place where she had grown up, was now just a memory, a place she could never return to. Not after this.

Her fingers traced the intricate embroidery on her lehenga, and for a moment, she closed her eyes, allowing herself to feel the full weight of her emotions. She had been through so much, and yet, she was here—standing tall, ready to face whatever came next. But the heaviness in her heart remained, a silent reminder of all she had lost and all she had yet to find.

But at the same time, Shehnaaz felt a surge of happiness. This was the life she was meant for—to love and care for Vihaan and Sidharth. The thought of being with them every day after today filled her heart with a thrill she couldn’t quite put into words. The idea of being able to care for Vihaan, to watch over him, and to be close to Sidharth was all she ever wanted. Even if she lacked the courage to speak to Sidharth openly, just knowing he was safe and sound in front of her was more than enough.

Yet, there was a lingering fear in the back of her mind—what if Arjun or her father showed up at the wedding and ruined everything? The thought sent a shiver down her spine, but she quickly pushed it aside, focusing instead on the joy she felt about her future with Vihaan and Sidharth.

“Kaha khoyi hai, Sana…” Madhu ji’s voice brought her back to the present. As she entered the room, she stopped in her tracks, her eyes wide with amazement. “Oh my God, Sana… you look…” she trailed off, unable to find the right words. “Gorgeous, baby… simply breathtaking.”

Shehnaaz blushed softly and rolled her eyes playfully as Sanju entered the room, whistling. “Hayy, kash mein ladka hoti…” Sanju teased, making Madhu ji giggle.

Without warning, Shehnaaz hugged Sanju tightly, catching her off guard. It was in that embrace that the tears she had been holding back finally broke free. How could she not have realized sooner that she was leaving Sanju too? Sanju had been her rock through the hardest phases of her life. Without Sanju, Shehnaaz knew she would have crumbled under the weight of everything she had gone through.

Sanju was the one who had stood up for her, stood by her, handled her, encouraged her, and kept her going during the darkest times. Sanju had taken care of her when she was completely broken, and the thought of leaving her behind was too much to bear. The tears flowed freely as Shehnaaz clung to Sanju, her heart aching with both gratitude and sorrow.

Sanju felt the wetness of Shehnaaz’s tears soak into her shoulder, and she gently wrapped her arms around her, holding her tighter. “Oh, Sana… don’t cry now,” she whispered, trying to hold back her own tears. “This is your special day, the day you’ve been waiting for. You deserve to be happy today.”
 
Shehnaaz sniffled, pulling back slightly but not letting go completely. “I know, Sanju… but it just hit me that everything is changing. I’m leaving behind so much… you, this room, this part of my life. I’m scared… and excited… all at once.”
 
Madhu ji joined them, her eyes softening at the sight of Shehnaaz’s emotions spilling over. “Change is hard, beta, but it’s also necessary for growth. You’ve been through so much, and you’ve come out stronger. Now, it’s time to embrace this new chapter. You’re not alone; we’re all here for you.”
 
Sanju cupped Shehnaaz’s face, wiping away the tears. “You’re not losing me, okay? I’m always just a call away, and you know I’ll drop everything to be there if you need me. This isn’t a goodbye. It’s a new beginning, and I couldn’t be prouder of you for making it this far.”
 
Shehnaaz managed a shaky smile, feeling a mixture of gratitude and warmth flood her heart. She knew Sanju’s words were true, but the emotions of the day were overwhelming. “Thank you, Sanju. I wouldn’t be standing here if it weren’t for you. You’re not just my friend; you’re my family.”
 
Sanju, sensing the depth of Shehnaaz’s emotions, held her tightly and whispered, “I’m always here for you, Sana. No matter where life takes you, you’ll always have me by your side.”
 

Madhu ji watched the two of them, her own eyes misting with tears as she saw the bond between them. This was a bittersweet moment, filled with both the joy of new beginnings and the sadness of farewells. But as she looked at Shehnaaz, Madhu ji knew that her daughter was ready to face whatever life had in store, with the strength and love that had brought her this far.

Once the tears were gone and the smiles returned, Sanju took a step back to admire Shehnaaz one more time. “Now, let’s get you ready. Sidharth and Vihaan must be waiting for you, and I can already tell they’re going to be spellbound when they see you.”
 
Shehnaaz took a deep breath, letting the words sink in. The thought of finally being with the two people she loved most filled her with a sense of peace. Her fears and worries, though still present, were overshadowed by the anticipation of a life she had always dreamed of—a life where she could pour all her love into her family.
 
With one last look at herself in the mirror, she straightened her shoulders and smiled at her reflection. She was ready. Ready to step into this new life, ready to embrace whatever came next, and most importantly, ready to be the Shehnaaz who loved fiercely, without holding back.
 
“Let’s go,” she whispered, determination and hope shining in her hazel eyes.
____________

Sidharth stared at his reflection in the mirror, adjusting the ornate sherwani his mother had chosen for him. Today had arrived, despite all his reservations and unspoken wishes. He was, in fact, getting married for the second time. The thought of it gnawed at him, a constant reminder of the tangled mess he was in.

A sense of discomfort tugged at him, but he felt a slight relief after having bared his soul to Payal. The emotional release had helped him breathe a little easier, though the pain still lingered. It was as though he had opened a valve, letting out some of the pent-up sorrow, but the weight remained heavy on his chest.

He couldn’t shake off a faint, almost unwelcome curiosity about how Shehnaaz would look in her bridal attire. The last time he had seen her, she had been stunning even without the full bridal ensemble. Her beauty had taken his breath away then, and he found himself wondering how she would look now, adorned in that pearl lehenga.

The thought irritated him. Why was he allowing his mind to wander in this direction? He had been trying hard to focus on the practicalities and realities of his situation, convincing himself that this was just an adjustment he had to make. He had to push aside any emotional distractions.

For the past two days, he had felt an unsettling restlessness. Shehnaaz had seemingly vanished after their last encounter, where he had hurt her with his harsh words. It bothered him more than he cared to admit. Despite his outward indifference, he found himself missing her presence, a feeling he struggled to suppress.

“I don’t care how she looks,” he muttered to himself, trying to convince himself of his own apathy. “I don’t care if she doesn’t want to see me or miss me.”

But deep down, the truth was different. Despite his attempts to dismiss it, his mind kept drifting back to thoughts of her. He was wrestling with his emotions, caught between the reality of his current situation and the lingering echoes of his feelings for Shehnaaz. This inner conflict was exhausting, and he found it increasingly difficult to keep his focus on the path he had chosen.

As he finished adjusting his sherwani, Sidharth’s gaze lingered on his reflection. The man staring back at him looked ready for a new chapter, but the inner turmoil was far from settled. The day was here, and he had to face it, but a part of him still clung to the hope for some unexpected resolution, even if he knew it was a long shot.

Sidharth clenched his fists as he tried to shake off the conflicting emotions swirling inside him. His gaze fixed on his reflection in the mirror, but his mind was elsewhere—back to that last encounter with Shehnaaz, where her tearful eyes had left a mark he couldn’t quite erase. The anger, the confusion, and the guilt gnawed at him, making it impossible to fully embrace the day that lay ahead.
 
“Focus, Sidharth,” he muttered to himself, as if commanding his heart to obey. But it was pointless. No matter how much he repeated that this marriage was just an adjustment, a necessity for his mother and Vihaan, a part of him felt an undeniable pull towards the woman he was about to marry.
 
Shehnaaz’s face kept flashing before his eyes—the way her eyes held a mix of pain and longing, the way she silently accepted every harsh word he threw at her. And yet, there was a resilience in her that both unsettled and intrigued him. He hated the fact that, despite his best efforts to remain detached, she had somehow managed to slip into his thoughts more often than he was comfortable admitting.
 
The curiosity about how she must be looking in her bridal attire gnawed at him. He vividly recalled how stunning she looked in that simple lehenga last time, and now, dressed as a bride, she was bound to look breathtaking. But why did he care? Why was he so restless to see her?
 
Shaking his head, Sidharth tried to push the thoughts away. This wasn’t about him or Shehnaaz—it was about fulfilling a responsibility. That was all it was meant to be. Yet, the mantra of “just an adjustment” felt more hollow with each passing moment.
 
Today, he would be tying the mangalsutra around Shehnaaz’s neck, marking her as his wife. He would be filling her maang with vermillion, a symbol of her new identity as his life partner. And those seven pheras, the vows they would take together—promises of a lifetime.
 
After today, she would be permanently moving into Shukla Mansion. Into his house, his space, his life. The thought felt heavy, yet somewhere beneath the weight of it all, there was a strange flicker of warmth—a weird satisfaction he couldn’t quite define. It was unsettling.
 
He brushed off the ridiculous notion that she could find a place in his heart. “No way.” He would never let that happen. His heart belonged to Payal, and it would stay that way. Shehnaaz was entering his life, yes, but only in the capacity of a duty, a responsibility. That’s all she was supposed to be.
 
But the very idea of having her in front of his eyes every day—seeing her care for Vihaan, watching her go about her daily routine—stirred something within him that he wasn’t ready to confront. The fact that she’d be there, in his room, in his space, brought a sense of satisfaction he couldn’t understand or admit to.
 
Before leaving, Sidharth found himself standing in front of Payal’s picture one last time. His eyes softened as he gazed at her smiling face, a bittersweet ache gnawing at his heart. “Mene tumhe bahot pareshan kar diya na kal raat,” he murmured, guilt lacing his words. “Me thik hun… Tum jahan bhi ho, khush raho.”
 
The weight of his next steps pressed down on him. The decision he was about to make wasn’t for himself but for Vihaan and his mother. “Me jo kadam aaj uthane ja raha hun… Vihaan aur maa ke liye… Vihaan ko zarurat hai Shehnaaz ki… Tum please rona mat…” His voice broke slightly. “Me tumhe kabhi nahi bhulunga.”
 
He stood there for a moment, as if waiting for some sign from her, something that would ease his inner turmoil. But the only response was the quiet stillness of the room, her picture staring back at him with the same tender smile.
 
Sidharth quickly wiped away a tear that had escaped, steeling himself. There was no turning back now. He took a deep breath, squared his shoulders, and walked out of his room, determined to fulfill his responsibilities, even if his heart was still tangled in the past.
_______________
The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of excitement and nerves as everyone prepared to leave for the mandir. Rita ji was meticulously going over the checklist in her mind. Her eyes darted around the driveway where a few cars stood, doors open, with bags being loaded by their helper and Shikhar.
 
“Anu, tune thik se sab car mein rakhwa diya na?” Rita ji asked with a hint of worry as she looked at her daughter. “Mujhe baad mein yeh reh gaya, woh reh gaya bilkul nahi chahiye.”
 
Anu nodded confidently, adjusting her dupatta. “Haan Maa, sab kuch properly rakh diya hai. Bas ek baar aur check kar leti hoon,” she said, moving swiftly towards the cars. 
 
Rita ji still seemed restless and turned to the helper, double-checking, “Tumne mandir ke phool aur prasad rakha na? Aur woh puja ki thali?”
 
“Haan, badi maa. Sab kuch rakh diya hai,” the helper reassured.
 
Meanwhile, Shikhar was busy carrying a few extra bags to one of the cars. He turned to Anu with a playful wink. Anu rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at her lips as she continued her final check.
 
On the other side of the driveway, Sidharth was holding Vihaan in his arms. The little boy’s excitement was palpable as he looked up at his father with sparkling eyes. “Papa, Sana aaj hamare ghar mein ayegi na?” Vihaan asked, his voice filled with innocence and hope. “Woh hamare saath rahegi hamesha?”
 
Sidharth’s heart clenched at the innocent questions. He forced a smile, trying to hide the heaviness he felt. “Haan, baby. Sana aayegi aur hum sab ke saath hi rahegi,” he replied softly, gently stroking Vihaan’s hair. 
 
Vihaan’s joy was infectious, and he continued, “me maa ko ab kahi nahi jane dunga”
 
Sidharth was surprised by his words. He nodded, trying to stay composed. “Woh tumhe chhodke kahi nahi jayegi,” he assured his son, though his own emotions were far from steady. As Vihaan rambled on excitedly about all the things he would show Shehnaaz, Sidharth focused on keeping his son engaged, not letting his own turmoil show.
 
Shikhar, having finished his tasks, joined Sidharth and Vihaan. “Sid, sab ready hai. Tum bas Vihaan ko sambhalo, baaki sab ka tension lene ke liye main hoon,” he said with a teasing grin.
 
Sidharth rolled his eyes but couldn’t help but smile faintly at Shikhar’s antics. He turned to Anu, who had returned after her final check. “maa ne kuch khaya subha se?” he asked.
 
“Ha bhai, mene khud plate banake di thi maa ko..” Anu confirmed with a reassuring smile.
 
Rita ji gave one last sweeping look around, finally feeling satisfied. “Thik hai, chalo sab… mandir ke liye nikalte hain.. late ho raha hai.” she said with a determined nod.
 
As everyone started moving towards the cars, Vihaan tugged at Sidharth’s collar. “Daddy, Sana kitni der mein aayegi?”
 
Sidharth’s heart ached, but he managed a tender smile. “Bas thodi hi der mein, champ..”
 
With that, they all got into their respective cars, and the small convoy set off towards the mandir, carrying with them a blend of hopes, apprehensions, and the weight of unspoken emotions.
______________
The convoy of cars slowly came to a halt in front of the mandir. The atmosphere outside was charged with a mix of anticipation and sacredness as the bells echoed gently, welcoming the family. Rita ji, Tayiji, and Anu stepped out, adjusting their dupattas and checking if everything was in place. Shikhar helped Vihaan out, who was brimming with excitement, clutching onto his favorite toy while eagerly looking around.
 
Sidharth was the last to exit the car. The weight of the day’s significance settled in his chest as he walked towards the mandir steps. His mind was a whirl of conflicted thoughts, but despite it all, an unspoken need gnawed at him—a need to see *her*. He found himself scanning the crowd instinctively, searching for that one familiar face, even though he wasn’t sure why he was so restless.
 
As they stepped inside the mandir, the cool marble beneath their feet sent a calming shiver through them. The sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, casting a warm glow on everything around. Sidharth’s heart raced as his eyes flitted around, still searching.
 
And then, they found her.
He froze in his tracks, the world around him blurring into oblivion. There, in the center of the mandir, Shehnaaz sat in her pearl bridal lehenga. The delicate embroidery shimmered under the soft temple lights, making her look like a vision. Her hands were joined in a prayer, her eyes gently closed, lips moving in a silent conversation with her faith. A serene calmness enveloped her face, the very picture of grace and innocence.
 
Sidharth couldn’t breathe for a moment. His heart pounded in his chest, almost drowning out the sound of the temple bells. He couldn’t tear his eyes away. The way the lehenga draped around her, the soft curls framing her face, the simplicity of her makeup that enhanced her natural beauty—she looked ethereal, like something out of a dream. There was an inexplicable pull, something beyond mere attraction. He felt a deep, uncontrollable urge to go to her, to bring her in his embrace, to keep her close—an intensity that left him shaken.
 
Koi etna khubsurat kaisa lag sakta hai..
 
The more he tried to resist, the more he felt drawn to her. He was mesmerized by how perfect she looked, how much peace and strength radiated from her as she sat there, lost in prayer. It was as if the world had come to a standstill, and there was only her. 
 
Sidharth was utterly captivated. The sight before him was so mesmerizing that it left him breathless, frozen in place. His heart thudded in his chest, each beat more intense than the last. How could someone look this stunning, this pure? She radiated elegance, grace, and innocence all at once. It was as if he was witnessing a celestial being, and for a moment, the world around him dimmed, leaving only her.
 
He couldn’t look away. Every detail of her was etched into his mind— the light kohl lining her eyes that seemed to hold a world of secrets, the blush on her cheeks that gave her an ethereal glow. She was nothing short of perfection. He felt a strange, inexplicable pull towards her, something deeper than just attraction. It was as if his very soul was reaching out, craving the peace she exuded. 
 
“What is happening to me?” he wondered, his thoughts spiraling out of control. “me kyun uski taraf etna khichha chala ja raha hun..” His heart was in turmoil, rebelling against every logical thought he tried to impose. He was drawn to her like a moth to a flame, powerless to resist.
 
His breath hitched when she suddenly opened her eyes and slowly turned her head, sensing his gaze. Their eyes met, and the air crackled with unspoken emotions. The connection was instant, deep, and raw. Her eyes held a mixture of vulnerability and quiet strength, mirroring his own swirling emotions. 
 
For a fleeting moment, everything else faded—there was no crowd, no ceremony, no noise—just the two of them locked in a gaze that spoke of longing, uncertainty, and something deeper they both refused to acknowledge. 
 
Shehnaaz’s heart fluttered under his intense gaze.
 
Her eyes, deep pools of emotion, held his gaze. There was a vulnerability in them, a quiet strength that pulled at something within him. She looked back at him with a mix of surprise and hesitation, as if she could feel the intensity of his stare, as if she, too, was struggling to make sense of the emotions coursing through her.
 
Shehnaaz’s heart raced. Why was he looking at her like that, with such depth, such raw intensity? It was as if he could see straight into her soul, unraveling the emotions she kept hidden. She felt her breath hitch, her cheeks warm under the weight of his gaze. Her mind swirled with confusion and a fluttering warmth that both scared and thrilled her.
 
“unhe dekhte hi me sab kuch kyun bhul jati hun.. khud ko bhi..” she thought, lost in the intense gaze. 
 
Shehnaaz felt a swirl of emotions she couldn’t quite place—there was happiness, a strange sense of belonging, but also uncertainty. She could see something in Sidharth’s eyes she had never seen before—a vulnerability, a deep longing. It made her heart flutter and ache at the same time.
 
Sidharth couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. For the first time, he couldn’t deny the effect she had on him. She wasn’t just any woman. She was the one who had slowly crept into the corners of his heart, despite all the walls he had built. There was something so pure, so beautiful about her, and in that moment, all he wanted was to hold onto that feeling, to hold onto her.
 
Sidharth’s mind was in chaos. He had spent so much time fighting against his feelings, convincing himself that this was just an obligation for Vihaan and his mother. But now, standing here, seeing her like this, he felt something breaking inside him—the cold, guarded walls he had built around his heart were crumbling brick by brick. How could someone so pure, so genuine, be someone he tried to keep away from? 
 
Shehnaaz, on the other hand, was just as overwhelmed. In Sidharth’s eyes, she saw something she hadn’t seen before—was it longing, or was it the beginning of acceptance? Her heart raced as she wondered if he was finally seeing her for who she truly was, not as the woman caught up in their complicated circumstances, but as someone who simply loved him, without conditions or expectations.
 
The moment stretched on, their silent communication saying more than words ever could. Sidharth’s heart hammered against his chest, and he suddenly found himself wanting to reach out, to take her hand, to feel her warmth. He wanted to erase all the hurt he had caused her, to tell her that despite everything, she had somehow become important to him.
 
Shehnaaz couldn’t hold his gaze for long. Overwhelmed by the emotions stirring within her, she quickly lowered her eyes, her heart pounding in her chest like a drum. Yet, even as she looked away, she could still feel the heat of his gaze lingering, wrapping around her like a tender embrace.
 
Sidharth’s heart clenched as she broke their eye contact. He felt a strange emptiness, like something vital had just been taken from him. The connection they’d just shared, brief yet powerful, left him yearning for more. He wanted to reach out to her, to hold her, to somehow keep that moment alive. 
 
But he couldn’t—no, he *shouldn’t*. The voice of reason echoed in his mind, reminding him of the boundaries they were crossing. Yet, the more he tried to distance himself, the more he was drawn to her. 
 
“Why does she affect me like this?” he questioned again, this time with frustration tinged with helplessness. I don’t want to feel this way… but I can’t stop it..
 
For Shehnaaz, the moment had left her shaken, her thoughts jumbled, her emotions a whirlwind. nahi.. me unhe aur taklif nahi dungi.. “
 
her heart softly whispered.. I’ll wait as long as it takes for you to heal, for you to trust me.. Even if you never love me the way I love you, I’ll be here, always..
 

_______________

Author’s Note

Hello, dear readers!

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Shehnaaz and Sidharth’s intricate lives. As their stories unfold, we delve into the complexities of love, regret, and redemption. This narrative is not just about their tumultuous relationship but also about their personal growth and the search for forgiveness and understanding.

In exploring their emotions, I’ve aimed to capture the raw, unfiltered feelings that drive their actions and decisions. Shehnaaz’s conflict between hope and heartbreak, and Sidharth’s struggle with guilt and acceptance, are central to the story’s depth. The characters’ journeys reflect the unpredictable nature of life and the often-painful process of healing and reconciling with oneself and others.

I hope this story resonates with you and offers insight into the profound ways in which we all navigate our personal challenges and relationships. Your feedback and reflections are always appreciated, as they help shape and enrich the narrative.

Thank you for your support and for being part of this emotional journey.

Thank you for being such amazing readers!

Also, stay tuned for Baarish,  Bhula Dunga, Mora Piya, Beintehaa and Thodasa pyar which will be starting soon 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

#EmotionalJourney, #HeartfeltStory, #LoveAndLoss, #FamilyDrama, #EmotionalHealing, #Storytelling, #NarrativeMagic, #LifeAndLove

Emotional Healing, Grief, Mother-Daughter Bond, Family Drama, Love, Loss, Support, Resilience, Overcoming Heartbreak, Character Development, Intense Emotions, Healing Process, Narrative Depth, Emotional Journey, Romantic relationships

 
Chapter 17
Chapter 19

79 thoughts on “Chapter 18”

  17. Alisha

    Such a lovely chapter full of emotions. I feel for both of them the way they both are going through their feelings but not able to understand anything at the same time. I just love this story so much. Thank you for posting these chapters di but take care of yourself and family ❤❤

    Reply
  27. Nitisha

    Happy that Sana’s father has realised his mistakes.. now awaiting for Sidnaaz’s wedding ❤️❤️
    #storieswithshalaka

    Reply
  35. Riya bansal

    U wrote all the emotions so well sid confused feelings he somewhere feeling guilty and that’s why dont want to accept feelings towards sana and sana is sometimes confused with feeling of love and heartbreak 💔 but totally loved it #storieswithshalaka

    Reply
  62. Sunita Goyal

    🫶🫶✌️✌️👌👌👌👌🤞🤞👌👌👌👌👌👌✌️✌️🫶🫶🫶🫶✌️✌️✌️✌️

    Reply

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