Chapter 33

Sidharth’s anger flared, surging through him like a tidal wave as he processed her words. In a swift, almost desperate motion, he grabbed Shehnaaz and spun her around in his arms, forcing her to face him. Her instinct was to look away, to avoid the intensity of his gaze, but Sidharth wasn’t having it. His hand moved up to her face, his grip firm but trembling, and he made her meet his eyes.

What she saw there left her breathless. His eyes, were filled with unshed tears—tears that spoke of unbearable pain and raw emotion. The depth of his agony mirrored her own suffering, and it broke something inside her. Shehnaaz reached out, to comfort him, to touch his face and tell him that she is there.

But just as her hand moved towards him, Sidharth stopped her mid-air. His hold on her was almost rough, yet she sensed the fear beneath it, the desperation. “Get in the car,” he commanded, his voice carrying an edge that was both stern and pleading, a strange mixture of fury and pain.

Shehnaaz shivered as the weight of his voice settled over her. It was beyond rough; it was a voice struggling to hold back an ocean of emotions. She could see the veins on his neck, strained and ready to burst, the tension in his body vibrating through her own. Her tears flowed freely now, mingling with the rain that had begun to pour around them. Sidharth didn’t wait for her to comply—he dragged her to the passenger seat, opened the door with a force that spoke volumes, and almost pushed her inside.

He climbed into the driver’s seat, his movements sharp and hurried, and the car roared to life, speeding through the dark streets. The tires screeched against the wet pavement, and the sound echoed in her ears like a warning, a signal of the storm raging inside him.

Shehnaaz, overwhelmed with emotions, tried to reach for him again. Her hand, trembling, moved toward his face, but he grabbed it with an iron grip and pinned it behind her back. The action was swift, almost reflexive, and it made her wince in pain.

“Kya kaha tumne… haan… kya kaha tumne?” he shouted, his voice breaking with anger and anguish. “Ke tum mere pass aayi toh mujhe taklif milegi?” His words were laced with hurt, each one a stab to her heart. Shehnaaz shook her head frantically, trying to deny it, trying to make him understand, but he wasn’t done.

He pulled her closer, his grip harsh and unyielding, his breath hot against her face as he spat out the words, “Tum meri ho… samjhi tum? Sirf meri! Mujhse door jaane ke baare mein sochna bhi mat… warna main sab kuchh tabah kar dunga… sab kuchh khatm kar dunga!”

His voice was like a thunderclap, raw and full of pain, and it made her heart clench in her chest. She felt his torment as if it were her own. His eyes blazed with an intensity that both frightened and moved her, and she couldn’t stop the tears from streaming down her face.

“Please, slow down… please,” she cried out, her voice breaking with fear and sorrow as he narrowly swerved past another vehicle, barely avoiding a collision. She could feel his pain radiating off him, sharp and jagged, cutting into her own heart. How could she have done this to him? How could she give him pain?

How could she? Shehnaaz’s voice broke with desperation as she pleaded, her words coming out in a frantic rush, “Main aapke bina mar jaungi, Sidharth… mar jaungi main aapke bina… please mujhe aapse kabhi alag mat karna…” Her eyes were wide with fear, her entire being aching for him to hold her, to wrap her in his arms, to tell her that everything would be okay. She needed him to calm down, to find his peace again.

Sidharth’s eyes were filled with a painful intensity, a mixture of anguish and fierce possession. He slammed on the brakes, the car coming to a sudden, jarring halt. The sound of tires screeching on the road was loud, almost as loud as the beating of his heart. Without a second thought, he released her hand, the one he had twisted so mercilessly moments before. The grip on her wrist loosened, and in one swift motion, he pulled her into his embrace, holding her so tightly that she landed on his lap.

His arms encircled her with a desperate strength, hugging her as if he never wanted to let go, as if she might slip away if he loosened his hold even a little. She was his love, his baby, and the thought of her hurting herself, even unintentionally, was something he could not bear.

As Sidharth crushed her against him, Shehnaaz felt every inch of her body molding to his, her heart syncing with the wild, frantic rhythm of his. It was as if every cell in her body was reaching out to meet his, every inch of her skin feeling as though it belonged to him, owned by him. She hugged him back just as tightly, pressing herself against him, feeling his heart thudding madly against her chest. “Aap please shant ho jayiye…” she whispered, her voice soft, pleading.

Sidharth’s shoulders shook, and he buried his face into her neck, his breath hot against her skin. His voice was broken, his words a tortured whisper, “Toh fir kyu kaha aisa…? Kyu kaha tumne aisa…?” His grip on her was so tight that she could feel the marks forming on her delicate skin, but she didn’t care. All she could feel was his pain, his overwhelming need to claim her, to hold her close.

“Tum meri ho… meri aur sirf meri… samajhi tum? Koi tumhe mujhse nahi chhin sakta… koi nahi… tum bhi nahi… Tum aise dobara kabhi mat kehna… warna main kuchh kar baithunga…” His voice was fierce, almost unrecognizable in its intensity, a declaration, a promise wrapped in a threat.

Her heart ached as she listened to him, hearing the raw vulnerability in his voice, the sound of a man losing his grip over his own mind. Sidharth, the strong, unwavering man, was crumbling because of her. She had made him vulnerable, and it shattered her heart to see him like this. Instinctively, she pulled back just enough to look at him, her gaze fierce despite the tears in her eyes.

His face remained buried in her neck, like a child seeking comfort, seeking solace in her presence. Shehnaaz’s heart twisted painfully at the sight of him, so broken, so desperate. “Kuchh kar lunga matlab…?” she challenged, her voice trembling but strong. “Khabardar jo aise kuch kaha toh… aapko meri kasam… aap mere ho… main kuch nahi hone dungi aapko…”

Overwhelmed by the tenderness in her words, Sidharth slowly lifted his face, his eyes still wet with tears. His gaze softened as he looked at her, his voice trembling with the depth of his emotions, “Main kitna dar gaya tha mera bachha… nahin ji sakta main tumhare bina…” His admission was raw, vulnerable, a confession that came from the deepest part of his heart.

Shehnaaz felt her heart swell with love and compassion as she watched him, his tears reflecting the fears that had consumed him. Crying softly, but with a small, reassuring smile on her lips, she brought her hands up and gently wound them around his neck. Without a second thought, she leaned in, pressing her lips softly against his, letting him feel the warmth of her touch. She wanted him to know, to truly understand, that she was okay, that she was here in his arms, safe and sound.

“Baby…” he groaned softly against her lips, a mix of relief and surprise in his voice, as if he hadn’t expected this show of affection from her. His grip around her tightened, pulling her even closer, his arm wrapping around her waist, holding her against his body as if he feared she might disappear again. With his other hand, he cupped the back of her head, guiding her face closer to his, their lips meeting in a kiss that felt like a lifeline.

It wasn’t a kiss driven by passion; it was something deeper, more profound. It was a kiss that spoke the words they couldn’t find, a silent exchange of everything they felt for each other. It was a kiss that conveyed their fear, their longing, and their love. A kiss that said they needed one another in a way that words could never express. It was their way of reminding themselves, and each other, that they couldn’t survive without this bond, without the safety and comfort they found in each other’s arms.

Shehnaaz could feel herself melting against his chest, the warmth of his body enveloping her as she let him take control. She knew he needed this, needed to love her, to feel her close to him, to erase the dark memories that had haunted them both. She could feel the urgency in his touch, his need to make sure she was really there, that she was really his.

Both of them were overwhelmed by an urgent need to close the emotional distance that fear and pain had created between them. Sidharth and Shehnaaz clung to each other, trembling, as if their very survival depended on the warmth of their touch. Shehnaaz kissed him back with an intensity that mirrored his own, her lips moving against his with a deep, desperate longing.

Sidharth responded with equal fervor, his lips tracing hers, savoring every moment, every sensation. He explored the softness of her lips, grounding himself in the reality that she was here, in his arms. He could feel her heartbeat against his chest, a steady rhythm that reassured him of her presence, calming the storm of his emotions.

They held onto each other tightly, as if they were the only things keeping each other afloat in a sea of uncertainty. The kiss was their lifeline, a silent promise that they were in this together, that they would remain connected, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

Shehnaaz, overwhelmed by her emotions, felt a deep need to express the pain she couldn’t put into words. She clung to Sidharth desperately, her hands threading through his hair, pulling him closer, holding onto him like a lifeline. Her hands trembled as she clutched him, her fingers gripping tightly. Sidharth winced slightly but didn’t move away; instead, he accepted everything she was feeling—her hurt, her love, her need to be close to him.

Shehnaaz leaned in closer, her body pressed tightly against his, her breath warm and shaky against his skin. Her hands ran along his back, her fingers leaving faint impressions as they moved. Sidharth could feel her intensity, the way she sought comfort in their closeness. He tightened his grip around her waist, holding her protectively, as if trying to shield her from the world.

Sensing her pain, Sidharth continued to hold her close, his arms enveloping her, his hands gently rubbing her back in soothing circles. He could feel the tension in her body, the way she was trembling, and he kissed her gently, his lips moving over hers with tenderness. His touch was gentle but firm, reassuring her that he was there, that he wouldn’t let go.

He could feel her tears against his face, and he pulled back slightly, just enough to look into her eyes. His heart ached at the sight of her tears, and he gently cupped her face, wiping away the tears with his thumbs. “I’m here… main hun na,” he whispered softly, his voice filled with love and concern.

Shehnaaz’s breath hitched as she heard his words, and she melted into his embrace, resting her head against his chest. Sidharth held her close, his hands gently stroking her hair, whispering comforting words, trying to soothe her broken heart. She felt his heartbeat under her ear, steady and strong, a reminder that he was there with her, that she was not alone.

As she rested in his arms, her breathing began to steady, the warmth of his body easing her fears, calming the storm inside her. She closed her eyes, feeling safe, feeling loved, and for the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of hope that everything would be okay.

77

Got it. Here’s the revised chapter with Shikhar instead of Raghav:

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Days passed slowly, each one feeling heavier than the last. Uttara’s final rites were completed, and though Ranbir was no longer in critical condition, he remained in the hospital. His medical expenses were fully covered by Sidharth, who visited him more than once, a gesture of gratitude for what Uttara and Ranbir had done for his Shehnaaz.

Sidharth would always be indebted to Uttara and Ranbir for their sacrifices. Meanwhile, Shikhar was in police custody, enduring constant torment, a direct result of Sidharth Shukla’s orders. This was his punishment for daring to harm Sidharth’s girl. Yet, instead of breaking under the pressure, Shikhar seemed to laugh harder with each blow, a twisted smile on his face. He was clearly a psychotic case, but Sidharth had used his influence to ensure that Shikhar remained in jail, not in a mental hospital. Sidharth himself had visited the station to make sure Shikhar understood the gravity of his crime.

Shikhar’s father, desperate and helpless, had tried to meet with Sidharth, pleading for mercy for his son, but Sidharth remained unmoved. There would be no forgiveness. Shikhar had not only hurt Shehnaaz but had also taken a life. Mercy had no place here.

Leher, guilt-ridden, apologized to Shehnaaz for her earlier behavior. Shehnaaz forgave her, but there was a deep pain within her that seemed to gnaw away at her insides. Baaz, too, couldn’t meet Shehnaaz’s gaze, feeling like he had failed her as a brother. He longed for a moment of connection, a single glance from her, but Shehnaaz never looked at him.

Sidharth brought Shehnaaz to visit Ranbir a few times, and she would ask him how he was doing, but Ranbir could see the emptiness in her eyes. She seemed like a shell of her former self. Nisha couldn’t look Shehnaaz in the eye either, consumed with guilt for the harsh words she had spoken. She couldn’t fathom how she had allowed herself to be so cruel.

On one of these visits, as Sidharth kissed Shehnaaz’s forehead and led her away, Ranbir watched her closely, concern etched on his face. “Kya hua hai isse… baat kyun nahi kar rahi… She didn’t even look me in the eyes once,” he muttered, looking at his friends.

“She’s just upset, Ranbir… you need to relax,” Ankita replied, her voice wavering as she exchanged a worried glance with Nisha, who suddenly froze.

Unable to keep her guilt contained any longer, Nisha blurted out, “I hurt her… I blamed her for your condition…”

Ankita closed her eyes, sensing the tension building in the room, and quietly stepped away to give them the space they needed.

Ranbir’s face hardened as he glared at Nisha, disbelief and anger flashing in his eyes. “What the hell, Nish? How could you? Why did you?”

Nisha looked down, her eyes filling with regret. Ranbir pushed himself up from the bed, wincing as a sharp pain shot through his body. Nisha tried to approach him, but he held up his hand to stop her. “It was my choice to risk my life for her. I love her, Nish, you know that. How could you…?”

Tears streamed down Nisha’s face as she whispered, “And I love you, Ranbir… you know that too…”

Ranbir understood the depth of Nisha’s anguish, recognizing the same kind of pain he had felt when Shehnaaz was in danger. He reached out, taking her hand gently and pulling her closer. Nisha, overwhelmed with emotion, leaned into him, finding solace in his embrace.

“I couldn’t just sit back while Shehnaaz was in danger,” Ranbir said quietly. “You’ve hurt me by hurting her.”

“I know, and I’m so sorry,” Nisha sobbed into his chest, her voice breaking with guilt. “I regret it more than I can express. She’s my baby too. She’s not talking to me, and I can’t handle it. Please, tu usse bol na mujhse baat kare..”

Ranbir sighed deeply, his hand soothingly patting her back. “You know how emotional Shehnaaz is. She doesn’t know how to handle all this. bachhee hai woh Nish. You should have been more careful.”

Nisha continued to cry, her sobs mingling with her words. “Shehnaaz isn’t herself anymore. It’s tearing me apart. I’ve apologized a million times, but she won’t even look at me. She’s lost, and it scares me.”

Shehnaaz struggled to find the right words to explain the turmoil inside her heart. Despite the passionate release she had found with Sidharth, the guilt still clung to her, an unshakable weight on her soul. She knew, deep down, that she might not be at fault, but she felt as if she was the root cause of all the suffering. Everything that had unfolded seemed to revolve around her, and it gnawed at her conscience.

Her state of distress was evident to everyone around her. She had noticed her mother’s anxious glances, her brother’s eyes filled with remorse, and the tears that streamed down her father’s face—a man who was usually a pillar of strength. But it was Sidharth who was the most affected. His sadness cut her deeply. She saw in his eyes a longing for her reflection, a yearning for her voice, her laughter. The sight of his pain only intensified her own guilt, making her feel as though she had taken something precious from him—something she couldn’t easily give back.

Despite the efforts of those around her, including Sidharth’s daily visits filled with attempts to bring back a smile to her face, the darkness within her remained unshaken. Sidharth would come with flowers, chocolates, and even read funny books to her, but nothing seemed to penetrate the fog of her despair. His love and care were evident, but they only served to amplify her sense of helplessness. Each time he made her smile, she would retreat into his embrace and cry, her sorrow too great to mask. She hated to see his face pale and distressed, knowing he couldn’t bear to see her like this.

Shehnaaz sat on the balcony’s resting chair, the gentle rain and the cool breeze adding to her sense of desolation. The rain tapped softly against the windows, a melancholic soundtrack to her sorrow. Tears slid down her cheeks as memories of Uttara, her childhood friend who had sacrificed so much for her, surfaced. Uttara didn’t deserve such a fate—she had been a bright light in her life, now extinguished. The thought of what might have happened to Ranbir if things had gone differently was unbearable. She couldn’t even bear to meet Nisha’s eyes, feeling the weight of her own mistakes.

The loneliness she felt was profound, and the emptiness seemed to stretch endlessly. She missed Sidharth with a depth that was almost physical. His presence had become a vital part of her existence. He was the first thought she had each morning, and the last before she closed her eyes at night. The rhythm of her days and nights revolved around him, yet she felt like she was drifting away from him, unable to find her lost self..

“You’re the first thing I think of each morning when I rise,” she whispered to herself, the words a reflection of her yearning. “You’re the last thing I think of each night when I close my eyes.” Each breath she took and each thought she had seemed to be intertwined with him, yet she felt out of reach, like a distant echo of what used to be a vibrant connection.

Shehnaaz would spend hours nestled in Sidharth’s lap, finding solace in his steady presence. He never complained or shifted her away, always content to hold her close, no matter how long it took.

“My feelings are growing stronger with every move I make,” she thought, though the weight of her guilt still pressed heavily upon her. She was making an effort, not just for herself but for Sidharth, trying to pull herself out of the abyss she felt trapped in. Yet, Uttara’s face, her sacrifice, and the shadow of her pain seemed to cling to her thoughts, refusing to let go.

“With every move I make, I want to prove I love you, but that’s the hardest part,” she reflected, feeling the difficulty of bridging the gap between her heartache and the need to be there for Sidharth.

Sidharth, on the other hand, was breaking inside with each passing day. It was torturous to see her so distant, so removed from the person he knew and loved. Each goodbye was a knife to his heart, knowing she would be alone, her tears hidden from him as he walked away. He wanted to keep her with him every moment, every second, every hour. His longing was endless.

“So, I’m giving all I have to give to you… I give my heart,” he resolved, even as he struggled to find a way to bring her back to him.

Desperate to see her smile, Sidharth tried everything he could think of. He would gently kiss her forehead until she drifted into sleep in his arms. He made sure she ate, even when her mood made her reluctant. Her weight loss pained him deeply; he missed the way she used to be, her vibrant presence now overshadowed by her sorrow.

One evening, as he walked into her room, he was met with a sight that twisted his heart—Shehnaaz, once again in tears. The sight was nearly unbearable. If begging at her feet would stop her tears, he would do it without a second thought.

He approached her quietly, noticing she seemed lost in her thoughts, her body unmoving as she stared blankly. Despite his countless attempts to cheer her up, her lips remained stubbornly curved into a frown, refusing to show even the hint of a smile.

Sidharth’s gaze softened as he watched Shehnaaz’s reaction. The gentle touch of his hand on her shoulder had startled her, but the relief in her eyes when she recognized him was palpable. He noticed the exhaustion etched on her face, the red eyes, and the pale skin, and his heart ached for her.

Bending down, Sidharth ran his fingers through her hair, his voice tender and soothing. “Jaan, main yahin hoon… itna ghabra kyun gayi?” His concern was evident, a blend of worry and love in his words.

Shehnaaz sighed in relief, her tense body relaxing as she saw him. Without a word, she stood up and wrapped her arms around his torso, resting her head against his heart. The warmth and rhythm of his heartbeat were a balm to her troubled soul.

Sidharth embraced her tightly, his arms enveloping her in a protective cocoon. He buried his face in her hair, taking in her comforting scent. Shehnaaz hugged him back with a fervent grip, her own sense of security and peace blossoming in his embrace. His presence was her anchor, the only place where she felt truly safe and alive.

He placed soft kisses on her hair and patted her back, whispering reassuringly, “Mera bachha, tumhe darne ki koi zaroorat nahi hai. Ab koi shaitan tumhare kareeb nahi aa payega. I promise, baby.”

Shehnaaz’s tears flowed freely as she responded, her voice barely a whisper, “Mujhe kuch bhi achha nahi lag raha hai… kuch bhi nahi. Bas kahin beth kar rone ka man karta hai. Aisa kyun ho raha hai, boliye na…” Her words were laden with a sadness that made her sound like a small, vulnerable child.

Sidharth gently kissed her hair, his voice filled with a comforting tone. “Jaan, tum khudko aise takleef kyun de rahi ho? Tumhari takleef mujhe tadapati hai.”

Shehnaaz nestled closer, her tears soaking into his shirt. Her eyes, reddened and surrounded by dark circles, and her once vibrant face, now pale, were a stark contrast to the lively spirit he knew.

Sidharth sighed deeply, his frustration and sadness evident. “Tum meri jaan ke saath bilkul sahi nahi kar rahi ho.”

Shehnaaz looked up at him, confusion clouding her tear-streaked face.

Sidharth gently cupped Shehnaaz’s face, his eyes filled with a deep, emotional vulnerability. “Meri Shehnaaz ko duniya ki har khushi ka haqq hai… duniya ka har sukoon tumhare palkon mein dekhna chahta hoon main. Tumhari aankhon ka sukoon mujhe jeene ki wajah deta hai, jaan.”

Shehnaaz, amidst her tears, smiled faintly at his words. She leaned into his palms, seeking the warmth of his touch, a small comfort amidst her sorrow.

Sidharth’s eyes, usually so strong and resolute, revealed the depth of his pain. “Tum meri galti ki saza khud ko kyun de rahi ho, haan, meri bachha?”

Shehnaaz looked at him, confusion evident in her eyes. “Galti? Aap ki? Aapne koi galti nahi ki, Sidharth.”

Sidharth shook his head, his voice heavy with regret. “Nahi, baby… Tumhe protect nahi kar saka main. Kisi ne yeh himmat dikhayi ke mujhe tumse chaar ghante ke liye door rakha. Kisi ki itni himmat badhne se pehle hi mujhe is baat ka andaza hona chahiye tha.”

Shehnaaz was taken aback by his self-reproach. “Nahi, Sidharth. Us shaitan ke dil mein kya chal raha tha, aap kaise jaan sakte? Aapki koi galti nahi hai.”

Sidharth’s guilt was overwhelming. “Galti to hui hai na, jaan. Meri jaan ki har soch mujhe pata honi chahiye. Is duniya ka koi bhi insaan meri Shehnaaz ke baare mein kya sochta hai, agar yeh bhi mujhe pata na chale, to main hun hi kya.”

Shehnaaz pulled his face closer to hers, her gaze steady and firm. “Aap sab kuchh ho jana… sab kuchh.”

Sidharth’s voice trembled with pain. “Toh fir yeh aansu kyun, meri bachha? Main tumhe is tarah nahi dekh sakta. Tumhari khamoshi, tumhara dard… mujhe pal-pal maar raha hai.”

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in fear. She quickly placed her palm over his mouth, shaking her head firmly. Her gesture was a clear, urgent plea for him to stop talking like that.

Sidharth closed his eyes, the weight of his guilt and the pain of seeing Shehnaaz suffer clearly visible. Shehnaaz continued to stare at him, her own restlessness mirrored in his troubled expression.

Shehnaaz cupped his face gently, drawing him into a moment of vulnerability. “I want to take you on a date,” Sidharth said softly.

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in surprise, her heart fluttering at the unexpected proposal. Her gaze softened as she met his hopeful eyes. She leaned in and placed a tender kiss on his chest, resting her head there. “Aap puchh rahe hain ya bata rahe hain?” she asked playfully.

Sidharth chuckled softly at her attempt to divert the conversation. He cradled her head in his arms, his warmth enveloping her. “You are mine,” he declared with a loving smile.

Shehnaaz wrapped her arms around his torso, seeking comfort and warmth. Despite her emotional turmoil, she felt safe in his embrace.

Sidharth held her closer, their bodies moving together in a slow, gentle rhythm. Shehnaaz watched him with adoration, finding solace in his presence. Though her heart was heavy, the intimacy of the moment brought a sense of peace.

Sidharth’s movements were graceful and elegant, drawing admiration from Shehnaaz despite her mood. She threaded her fingers through his and hugged his neck as he danced with her. His lips brushed her forehead, and his tender touch made her shiver with emotion.

As the rain began to fall outside, sending a refreshing breeze through the room, Shehnaaz sought more warmth from Sidharth’s embrace. He held her close and then led her back to the bedroom, ensuring she felt secure and cherished.

Sidharth, who had always believed he needed nothing more in life, now realized how much he needed Shehnaaz. Her presence had brought a new meaning to his existence. He wished he could fully express his feelings for her and how much he longed for her happiness.

He gazed at her with deep affection, feeling that she was the sun to his world. Holding her tightly, he conveyed his ownership and love. Despite her silence, he found comfort in the fact that she was with him.

He kissed the tears that fell from her eyes, knowing that she was everything to him. Her well-being was his utmost priority, and he was determined to be there for her.

The next morning, Sidharth surprised Shehnaaz by taking her on a spontaneous outing. Jasbeera ji had been worried about her, and the change of scenery was just what she needed. As they arrived at a café, Sidharth opened the door for her with a charming smile..

Shehnaaz looked around, confused by the unfamiliar surroundings. “Kya hua? Hum kahaan aaye hain?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Grinning with his characteristic charm, Sidharth got out of the car and hurried to open the door for Shehnaaz like a true gentleman. He extended his hand to help her out, which made Shehnaaz smile softly. “I need to feed my baby,” he said with a twinkle in his eye, “and they make the best chocolate brownies.” After closing the door behind her, he gently kissed her temple as she looked at him with curiosity. “I know you won’t be able to resist them. Let’s go.”

Shehnaaz nodded and allowed him to wrap his arm around her protectively as they walked into the café together. Sidharth ordered breakfast and, of course, the famous brownies.

When the food arrived, Shehnaaz’s expression faltered slightly. She hadn’t been eating much lately, resulting in noticeable weight loss, which deeply concerned Sidharth. “Don’t make that face,” he said softly, “Let me know if you’re not eating so I can feed you myself.”

Shehnaaz bit her lip, a blush creeping onto her cheeks as she noticed a few curious glances from other patrons. With a small chuckle, she replied, “Offoo, me kha rahi hun na?” Her playful tone made Sidharth smile, and despite her initial reluctance, she ended up enjoying the brownies more than she’d expected—they were simply too delicious to resist.

Sidharth watched her with a sense of relief and contentment as she savored the treats. He rubbed his thumb along her lower lip, which was smeared with chocolate, and felt her shiver at his touch. It was a simple gesture, but it made his heart race, knowing how much she meant to him.

Once they were back in the car, Sidharth tried to engage Shehnaaz in conversation, but she was struggling to open up. As he drove silently, he held her close, relieved that she wasn’t crying.

They arrived in Lonavala soon, and Shehnaaz, exhausted, had fallen asleep in his arms. Sidharth carried her into their cottage, a property of the Shuklas, and gently laid her on the bed. He removed her shoes and covered her with a duvet before going to freshen up. When he returned, he settled beside her, holding her close as she slept peacefully.

Sidharth was deeply worried about her. Her silence and weight loss were distressing, and he had done his best to ensure she was eating. Yet, her sleepless nights were taking their toll. He used to complain about her love for sleep, but now he just wanted her to find peace. As he brushed her hair back and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, he felt her cling to him, finding solace in his embrace.

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