Chapter 12

Shikhar’s smile was as warm as the morning sun when he greeted Shehnaaz. “Hi Shehnaaz… tum kal party me nahi aayi. I waited for you…” His words were laced with a hint of expectation, but Shehnaaz’s puzzled look made him quickly amend, “I mean, I waited for you all…”

Shehnaaz’s confusion deepened, and she replied with a note of regret in her voice, “Sorry Shikhar… I was a little busy yesterday…”

Shikhar’s eyes flashed with irritation. “Busy… with whom?”

Shehnaaz was taken aback by the sharpness in his tone. “Sorry…??”

Before she could answer, Ranbir intervened, his voice steady and reassuring. “Me and Shehnaaz went shopping…”

Shikhar’s gaze turned into a storm of anger and hatred, directed at Ranbir. His eyes burned with a fury that seemed capable of consuming everything in its path. He looked at Ranbir as if he could snap him in two right there.

Shehnaaz, feeling the tension in the air, chose not to argue. She searched for an excuse, and Ranbir’s timely intervention provided just that. Shehnaaz managed a smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “Yeah… we went shopping.”

Shikhar’s anger simmered beneath the surface. He was unsettled by Ranbir’s proximity to Shehnaaz and her unwavering support for him. In his mind, Shehnaaz should be on his side, and her apparent disregard for his feelings was unacceptable. He felt a surge of frustration and resolved to confront her about her indifference.

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In the quiet confines of his office, Sidharth was absorbed in his emails when a knock on the door broke his concentration. “Come in,” he said, his voice calm but distracted.

Ritika entered, her demeanor professional but tinged with concern. “Good morning, sir. Mr. Khanna called yesterday, but since you weren’t in the office, he wanted some urgent changes in his project. You weren’t scheduled for any meetings today, so I asked him to come by at 4…”

Sidharth’s eyes narrowed as he looked up from his laptop. “Ritika, I believe you’ve forgotten your place. I’m the boss here, and you’re my secretary. Who gave you the authority to schedule meetings without consulting me or Adi?”

Ritika was taken aback by his harsh tone. Her heart sank at his abruptness. She had been so hopeful that he was changing for the better, but moments like these reminded her of the reality—Sidharth Shukla, in all his rigidity.

She took a heavy breath, her voice quivering slightly.. “I’m really sorry, sir. Adi sir was busy. I won’t repeat it.”

Sidharth’s expression softened just a touch, but his voice remained cold. “You can leave.”

Ritika nodded, her heart heavy, and walked out, feeling the sting of his words.

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Sidharth leaned back in his chair, the weight of his frustration palpable. He had been looking forward to meeting Shehnaaz, but the unexpected meeting had derailed his plans. He sighed, thinking about how she seemed to care so little for her health and well-being. His mood was darkened by his earlier harshness towards Ritika. He wished he could understand what had driven her to take such a step; perhaps it was something truly important.

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Shehnaaz was enjoying a break with her friends in the canteen after lectures. They chatted animatedly about their project as their lunch order arrived. With a lighthearted chuckle, Shehnaaz announced, “Guys, I’m going to have lunch at home today.”

Her friends exchanged surprised glances. Shehnaaz was known for her love of fast food. Ranbir, puzzled, asked, “Kis khushi mein?”

Shehnaaz rolled her eyes playfully. “Because I promised Mumma that I’d eat home-cooked meals more often.”

Shikhar, who had been watching from a distance, approached them as Ranbir was suggesting that he could help Shehnaaz with the project.Shikhar’s displeasure was evident. Who was Ranbir to offer his help? As Shehnaaz pondered how to refuse Ranbir’s offer, her mind also wandered to Sidharth, who had promised to assist her.

Shikhar slid into the seat next to Shehnaaz, his voice laced with concern. “Shehnaaz, you look lost. If you need assistance, I’m here for you as well.…”

Shikhar’s attempt to be helpful irked Shehnaaz, who was already on edge. “Shikhar, I think you should focus on your project first…”

Shikhar’s eyes flashed with hurt as he saw them preparing to leave. He hastened to ask, “Um, Shehnaaz, can I have your phone number, if you don’t mind?”

Everyone looked at him in confusion, while Anu’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. Shehnaaz forced a smile, though her eyes held a hint of annoyance. “Shikhar, we aren’t close friends yet. It’s only been two days. I don’t give out my number easily. please don’t misunderstand.”

She left, leaving Shikhar seething with frustration. *Number toh tum dogi Shehnaaz. Aaj nahi toh kal, main aise halat bana dunga ke tum apna number mujhe dogi. That’s my promise to you, hunny,* Raghav thought with a smirk, watching her go.

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The rain poured heavily outside as Shehnaaz slept peacefully. The sound of her door being knocked woke her. She opened it to find her soon-to-be sister-in-law, Leher.

Shehnaaz’s face brightened with a smile. “Bhabhi… aap… kaise hain?”

Leher returned the smile warmly. “Main bilkul theek hoon. Tum abhi tak so rahi ho? Maa ne nahi bataya shoppina ka?”

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in realization. She had forgotten about the shopping trip. She quickly got ready, and the two of them headed downstairs.

Jasbeera ji’s voice rang with concern. “Bachchiyon, Gandhi market mein zyada mat rukna. Wo area itna safe nahi hai, bahut rush hoti hai. Jitni jaldi ho sake, wahan se nikal aana…”

Leher reassured her, “Haan mumma, tussi chinta na karo.”

The girls left, the excitement of their shopping trip in the air.

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As Shehnaaz remembered calling Sidharth around 7 to help with the project, she asked Leher, “Bhabhi, hum kitne baje tak wapas aa jayenge?”

Leher replied casually, “7-8 baje tak aa jayenge…”

Shehnaaz, hoping to get back in time, added, “Haan bhabhi, hum 7 baje se pehle hi saara kaam pura karke wapas aa jayenge. Mujhe zaruri kaam hai…”

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After his meeting, Sidharth was about to leave when Adi approached him. “Sir, if it;s okay, can I ask you a personal question?”

Sidharth raised an eyebrow. “what is it Adi…”

Adi continued, “Nowadays, you seem happy. I mean, I’m really glad to see this side of you. We never saw you smile before…”

Sidharth’s lips curved into a small smile. “Adi, when a person has a reason to smile, they do. Maybe I’ve found mine,” he said before leaving, leaving Adi and Ritika deep in thought.

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By the time Sidharth reached Shehnaaz’s room, it was empty. He felt a pang of emptiness as he stepped through the balcony and wondered where she could be. He tried calling her, but there was no answer. Desperation rising, he called his bodyguard, who informed him that they had followed them to Gandhi Market, but Shehnaaz seemed to have disappeared in the crowd.

Anger flared within him as he fired the bodyguard on the spot. He locked the door from the inside, unsure whether to wait or leave. His frustration was compounded by missed calls and the realization that he hadn’t been able to reach her earlier. He texted her, “Where are you, jaan?”

With a heavy sigh, he rested on her bed, feeling the emptiness of the room. The room wasn’t lavishly decorated, but it exuded a unique charm. The walls were adorned with portraits and a big painting of Radha Krishna, adding a touch of warmth. Her room was filled with her essence—soft lighting, gentle curtains swaying with the breeze, and a cozy atmosphere. The rain outside created a stark contrast with the warmth of the room.

Sidharth imagined how wonderful it would be if his own room could be filled with her love and dreams. He envisioned her teddy bears replacing his files, her blue curtains replacing his white ones, and the natural air of her room replacing the chill of the air conditioning.

He called her once again, but her phone was turned off.. Growing increasingly worried as it neared 8, he decided to leave when he heard someone trying to open the locked door. Startled, he slipped into the balcony to hide.

Shehnaaz was frantic as she realized how late she was. Her phone battery had run out, and the relentless rain had worsened the traffic. She found the door locked and used her keys to get in, securing it behind her.

She searched the room for any sign of him, calling out softly, “Sidharth…?” Her voice echoed in the empty space. As

she walked towards the balcony, she was suddenly pulled against the wall. Sidharth’s hands were firm around her wrists, his eyes intense and his breath warm against her face.

The rain continued to pour outside, droplets mingling with the winds and creating a sensual symphony around them. Shehnaaz’s damp hair clung to her face, and Sidharth, his gaze softening, kissed her forehead. His hold on her relaxed as he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close.

“Hazar baar kaha hai na… never keep your phone off,” he spoke, his voice tinged with concern. The worry he had felt was palpable in his tone.

Shehnaaz buried her face in his chest, her voice muffled. “Battery khatam ho gayi thi…”

Sidharth’s heart melted as he kissed her hair, his fingers gently brushing away the water droplets. “Bhig kaise gayi…?”

Shehnaaz looked up at him with a mischievous smile. “Kitni barish ho rahi hai bahar. Sach mein, me khud se nahi bhigi…”

Sidharth chuckled, his arms tightening around her as he lifted her slightly off the ground. He carried her into the bedroom, her laughter filling the room. He fetched a dry towel from the closet and carefully dried her hair, his movements tender and loving.

As she watched him, her heart swelled with emotion. “Aap naraz ho…?”

Sidharth kept quiet and continued to dry Shehnaaz’s hair, not meeting her gaze. His silence troubled her.

Shehnaaz, feeling the weight of his unspoken words, grabbed the collar of his shirt, pulling him closer to gain his attention. “Aap baat nahi karoge mujhse..?” she asked, her voice soft yet pleading.

Sidharth remained focused on his task, his eyes intent on the towel in his hands.

With a touch of whimsy, Shehnaaz rested her forehead on his chin, her voice taking on a babyish tone. “Woh achanak Bhabhi aa gayi aur mujhe apne sath le gayi.. unhe kuchh shopping karni thi..”

Sidharth set the towel aside and brushed his fingers through her damp hair, arranging it gently. His tender care was evident, and he looked incredibly endearing as he pampered her. Yet, his silence continued to annoy her.

“Mujhe nahi pata chala battery kab dead ho gayi phone ki..?” she tried again, rubbing her forehead against his chin, craving for the familiar kiss he often gave her. Sidharth sighed and placed a lingering kiss on her forehead. The warmth of her damp skin and the sweet aroma of her natural cologne filled his senses, like a drug addict craving his fix.

Shehnaaz’s smile grew as he kissed her, and she snuggled closer to him, her heart melting at his affection. Was it even possible for him to stay angry with her for long? She felt like the most cherished person in the world, enveloped in his loving embrace.

“I am still angry…” Sidharth attempted to speak sternly, but his voice betrayed him, softening in the presence of her innocent charm.

Shehnaaz grinned cutely, holding her ears and making a playful face. Shaking his head in amusement, Sidharth removed her fingers from her ears and placed them gently on his lips, pecking them softly.

With a mischievous grin, Shehnaaz pushed him backward with all her might. Sidharth, well aware of her futile efforts, allowed himself to be moved slightly before letting her guide him to the bed. She dashed to the washroom to change.

As Shehnaaz returned, Sidharth was engrossed in the project file, making notes on the empty spaces of the sheets. When she appeared beside him, holding a large chocolate bar, his attention was momentarily diverted by her red satin attire. Groaning softly, he refocused on the file.

With a pout, Shehnaaz jumped onto the bed, landing in his lap, catching him by surprise. “Jaan, kya kar rahi ho…?”

Her closeness and the sensuous allure of her satin dress drove Sidharth wild. Her skin begged for his touch, and her plump lips tempted him beyond reason. Her damp hair teased his senses, and his throat went dry as she opened the chocolate bar, offering him the first bite.

“I am hungry…” she said, nibbling on the chocolate, her eyes examining the notes he had made for her.

Kissing her hair, Sidharth patiently explained the details she was struggling with, his voice soothing and gentle. As he did, she playfully shoved another bite of chocolate into his mouth, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

When they finished, the leftover chocolate smudged on her fingers seemed to tempt her even more than the bar she’d just devoured. Sidharth shook his head with a fond smile. “Sochna bhi mat… go and wash your hands.” She pouted but obeyed, sulking slightly as she walked away.

Returning to his lap, she nestled closer, her sulking face making him chuckle. He kissed her cheek softly, murmuring, “Mera bachha…” That was all she needed to be soothed. Turning her face towards him, she grinned and kissed his cheek, her heart fluttering as she saw his gaze fixate on her lips with a possessive intensity.

Before she could react, his lips were on hers, fierce and demanding. He pulled her, his body pressing down on hers, but he carefully balanced his weight with his elbow to avoid hurting her. His kisses were tender yet passionate, as if he was afraid she might crumble beneath him. He treated her like the most delicate of flowers, kissing her with an intensity that spoke of his deep adoration.

Lost in the moment, he didn’t realize when he pulled the delicate strap of her shoulder down and left his mark there. Breathless, he buried his face in her neck, trying to calm his racing heartbeat. Feeling her safe and secure beneath him, his grip relaxed just enough to let her breathe freely.

Her fingers traced gentle patterns in his hair, her voice a soft whisper, “Aapko laga main aapka weight nahi seh sakti, haan?”

He chuckled, his eyes warm with affection. “Honestly, yes.”

She pressed a tender kiss to his index fingers, which had ended up resting on her lower lip. “Main aap ke liye koi bhi mushkil seh sakti hoon.”

His gaze locked onto hers, filled with a mixture of awe and love. There was a purity, a deep honesty in her eyes, a devotion that spoke louder than words. It was a look that conveyed everything he needed to know about their connection.

Sidharth kissed her forehead, his voice barely a whisper. “Naaz, main manta hoon ke maine kabhi kisi ehsaas ko apni zindagi mein shamil nahi hone diya. Kabhi kisi ehsaas ko apne dil tak pohochane nahi diya. Mujhe toh ye bhi nahi pata tha ke mere paas dil hai. Par ab sab badal rahi hai, Naaz… Main badal raha hoon, tumhare liye. Sidharth kuchh bhi bardasht kar sakta hai, lekin kabhi kisi bhi taklif ko Shehnaaz ke aaspaas bhi aane nahi de sakta. Mere hote huye, koi taklif tumhe chhu bhi nahi payegi. Ye wada nahi, mera haqq hai. Aur jab tumhari in chhoti chhoti aankhon mein aansu aate hain na, toh mujhe lagta hai ke main haar gaya. Sidharth ki Shehnaaz ke aankhon mein aansu aaye, aise pehle Sidharth puri duniya tabah kar de, taki woh pal hi na aa sake jisme tumhari aankhon mein aansu ho…”

Shehnaaz was overwhelmed by his words. Was this love? No, this was something far beyond it. Love, just those four letters, couldn’t encapsulate the depth of what they shared. Their bond was something out of this world, something that transcended the universe itself.

This feeling had the strength to stop time, just to savor a few more moments together. It had the power to destroy worlds if anyone tried to come between them. It could read each other’s hearts and minds, make decisions on each other’s behalf, and take each other for granted.

This feeling had the ability to erase every pain that could ever be caused. It embodied everything a relationship needed—understanding, ownership, the right to fight but always end up in each other’s arms, an insatiable desire, and an acute sensitivity. Like a single drop of blood causing pain to Shehnaaz would drive Sidharth crazy, or Shehnaaz would suffer a hundred deaths just watching him in pain.

Love had to be extraordinary.

She cocooned her face in his chest as he wrapped her closer. Mumbling, she asked, “Ab maa ki tabiyat kaisi hai?”

Sidharth’s smile was tender. “Maa thik hai, aur jab tum aa jaogi, to aur bhi thik ho jayengi…”

Shehnaaz blushed, burying her face further into his chest. His chuckle and gentle caress of her hair, accompanied by the kisses he planted, made her heart swell with affection. It was just them and their little world, a sanctuary of love and comfort.

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Later, as Shehnaaz walked through the institute gate, she accidentally bumped into Shikhar. The collision caused their belongings to scatter. Shikharhelped her pick everything up and handed her phone to her, but she noticed he had slipped hers into his pocket. Lost in the confusion of the bump, Shehnaaz didn’t immediately realize the oddity of the situation.

She mumbled a hurried apology and quickly left, her mind troubled by the strange, unsettling sensation she felt from his touch.

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Author’s Note

Hello, dear readers!

I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it. Sidharth and Shehnaaz’s relationship is a proof to the intense connection and love they share, beyond ordinary expressions. Their bond is something truly extraordinary, and I’ve tried to capture the depth of their emotions and the strength of their feelings.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of their journey. Your comments and votes mean the world to me!

I look forward to hearing from you and sharing more of this journey with you all!

Also, stay tuned for 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

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