Chapter 24

Shehnaaz’s eyes opened slowly, brimming with raw, unspoken emotions. Each blink seemed to release a flood of feelings, memories, and dreams. The connection between her and Sidharth was palpable, an invisible thread that tied their hearts together. Tears welled up in her eyes, a mixture of relief, love, and vulnerability, glistening like pearls. Sidharth noticed them immediately, his expression softening with concern and tenderness. With a gentle touch, he wiped away her tears, his fingers lingering on her cheeks, savoring the intimate moment.

He wrapped his arms around her again, pulling her close with an affection so tender it felt like a protective cocoon. “Mera bachha,” he whispered, his voice a soothing balm to her soul. The words were filled with so much warmth and love that they resonated deep within her, providing solace and comfort.

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All the guests had already left for the venue, and the Gill family was busy with the final checks. There was a buzz of excitement in the air as everyone hurried about, making sure everything was perfect for the big event.

Rajender ji walked through the main door of the mansion, his brow furrowed with impatience. “Beera, tum log abhi tak nikle nahi… kitni der ho gayi hai,” he called out, his voice tinged with frustration.

Jasbeera ji, hearing her husband’s annoyed tone, rolled her eyes. “Hayy rabba, shant ho jayiye… awehi gussa kar rahe hai,” she replied, trying to calm him as she made her way towards the door. She paid no heed to his irritation, knowing well that it was just his way of coping with the stress of the day. She looked beautiful, every detail of her appearance meticulously put together.

Rajender ji sighed as he watched his wife pass by, her grace and poise always managing to soften his annoyance. Alongside her was Mahi, their youngest, who was giggling at the cute cold war between her parents.

He shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips at the sight of his wife’s playful defiance. Her spirit and childlike exuberance were part of what he loved most about her. Despite the years they had spent together, her ability to bring a smile to his face had never faded.

Shehnaaz anxiously checked her phone and felt a rush of relief when she saw Sidharth’s reply: “Just 10 min jaan… bas pohoch raha hun…” She smiled, her heart settling as she turned to head towards the stage.

Suddenly, she was startled to see Shikhar standing in front of her. His presence was unexpected, and the intensity in his eyes as he stared at her beautiful face made her uneasy.

“Hi Shehnaaz… I must say you look beautiful,” Shikhar said, his voice carrying a hint of something more.

Shehnaaz felt a wave of discomfort under his gaze but managed a weak smile. “Umm… thank you, Shikhar. You too.”

Shikhar smiled back, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I hope I’m not late… the function hasn’t started yet, right?”

“Just started,” Shehnaaz replied, feeling unsure of what to say next. The air between them was thick with unspoken words and old memories.

Just then, Uttara walked towards them, and Shikhar’s expression instantly shifted to one of disappointment. He looked as though something precious had been taken from him. Uttara, sensing the tension, approached them curiously.

Shehnaaz noticed the sudden change in Shikhar’s demeanor and spoke up, trying to lighten the moment. “Uttara, please meet Shikhar, my classmate.”

Uttara smiled weakly, her eyes flicking between them. “I know Shikhar, Sana,” she said softly.

The color drained from Shikhar’s face instantly as he almost glared at Uttara. Shehnaaz was quite surprised by the tension. “Really? That’s great. How come you know each other?”

Uttara shook her head at Shikhar’s furious expression. “Long story, yaar. I’ll tell you some other time.”

Shehnaaz shrugged, deciding to let it go, while Shikhar looked around uncomfortably. Uttara sighed, seeing his discomfort. “Sana, please excuse us. Mujhe Shikhar se kuch jaroori baat karni hai.”

Shikhar instantly looked at her angrily, but Shehnaaz nodded with a smile and walked away.

As she left, Shehnaaz noticed Uttara dragging an angry Shikhar away. She was confused about the nature of their relationship. Uttara would never hide anything from her, especially if she was in a relationship. They had been best friends since childhood.

Feeling grumpy about Sidharth’s delay, Shehnaaz walked towards the hotel corridor. Suddenly, she felt a familiar touch on her wrist. A smile instantly touched her lips as she realized Sidharth was right behind her. How could she not feel his touch? But then she remembered she was supposed to be angry with him for being late.

Determined to confront him about his delay, Shehnaaz turned around with a grumpy expression. But the moment her eyes landed on Sidharth, her irritation melted away. She stood frozen, her mouth slightly agape as she took in the sight of him.

Wrapped in a shervani that suited him to perfection, Sidharth looked like a Greek God. The elegant attire highlighted his strong frame and chiseled features, making him appear regal and breathtaking. Shehnaaz felt her heart flutter as she gazed at him, unable to believe how stunning he looked.

All her grumpiness vanished in an instant. She blinked rapidly, her cheeks flushing with a rush of blood as she tried to process the overwhelming sight before her. Her irritation dissolved into pure admiration.

Shehnaaz couldn’t help but notice the stubble on his face, which added a rugged charm to his otherwise flawless appearance. His intense eyes seemed to see right through her, and his lips, slightly parted and perfectly shaped in an M, were simply irresistible.

Sidharth’s gaze softened as he observed her reaction. He felt an irresistible urge to kiss those lips that looked so inviting. He was mesmerized by how angelic she appeared, especially when she pouted slightly in her adorable attempt to look annoyed.

He had followed her from the moment she left the venue, his heart racing as he approached the corridor. He had intended to tell her how stunning she looked, but the sight of her checking him out, her eyes lingering on him with such a mixture of wonder and admiration, was too captivating to ignore. He felt his throat go dry with desire when he noticed her gaze lingering on his lips for a moment longer than necessary.

Sidharth pulled her close, his hand still gripping hers, and Shehnaaz found herself pressed against his chest. The sudden proximity made her blink rapidly in surprise, their faces just inches apart.

Sidharth tightened his arms around her waist, his gaze filled with intensity. “Agar mujhe uhi ghoorti rahogi, toh fir mujhe dosh mat dena agar maine…” His voice trailed off, a teasing edge in his tone.

Shehnaaz’s fingers gripped the fabric of his shervani at his chest, her cheeks flushed a rosy pink as she looked down, trying to avoid his gaze. “Main ghoor nahi rahi thi, sachii,” she insisted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Chuckling softly, Sidharth continued to gaze at her with all his love. To him, she was his princess, his baby, the purest soul on earth, and his deepest love. He bent down to place a gentle kiss on her forehead, though he knew this might be the nth time he had done so. “Mazaak kar raha tha, jaan,” he murmured, his voice filled with affection.

Shehnaaz suddenly became aware of their surroundings and tried to pull away. However, Sidharth’s hold tightened, his arms firm around her. She looked up at him, surprised and slightly concerned. “Sidharth, koi dekh lega..?”

His expression remained unchanged, and his hold did not loosen, sending a shiver through her.

“Jana, please… kisi ne hume dekh liya toh…” she pleaded, her voice trembling slightly with both desire and worry.

Sidharth, however, was determined to enjoy the moment. His fingers began to tickle Shehnaaz, and she burst into giggles, trying desperately to free herself. “Main has padungi… please, jaane do na…” she pleaded, her laughter ringing through the corridor.

“Kabhi nahi jaane dunga, samajhi tum?” he said with a mock sternness, gripping her tightly as if to make his point. His eyes gleamed with a mix of affection and playful dominance. “Promise me you will do as I say…”

Shehnaaz chuckled, trying to pinch his hand to get free. Her attempts were met with little success, as his grip remained firm. Annoyed but amused, she dug her nails into his skin. Sidharth’s smirk widened, and he let out a soft groan. “I swear I’m gonna cut your nails all the time,” he teased, his voice filled with mock frustration.

Shehnaaz grinned and rubbed her fingers where she had dug her nails, trying to ease the sting. “Achha, I will do… bas…” she conceded with a playful roll of her eyes.

Satisfied with her response, Sidharth glanced around to make sure no one was watching. Seeing no one in sight, he bent down and took a sudden, firm bite of her lower lip, catching her completely off guard. The unexpected kiss was intense and passionate, leaving Shehnaaz momentarily stunned. He pulled away quickly, creating enough space for her to leave if she wished.

Shehnaaz touched her lower lip where it stung from his bite, her cheeks flushing with a deep blush. She glared at him, who was now smirking triumphantly. Her face was a mix of embarrassment and anger, but it was clear that the playful moment had left her flustered and charmed.

Blushing hard, Shehnaaz turned and ran back towards the venue, eager to escape the intensity of the moment. Sidharth followed closely behind, his smirk never fading as he watched her retreating form. The playful banter and tender moments only served to strengthen their bond, making the day even more special.

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Wrapped in a stunning red bridal attire, Leher was a vision of beauty. Her dress, rich and vibrant, shimmered under the soft lighting, making her look like a radiant jewel. As she entered the mandap, she was accompanied by Uttara and her mother, who guided her with loving care.

The guests couldn’t help but admire the beautiful bride, their eyes filled with admiration and joy. Baaz, seated in the mandap, couldn’t tear his gaze away from her. His eyes followed every graceful movement she made, captivated by her presence.

Leher sat beside him, and their eyes met. For a moment, the world around them seemed to fade away. They were lost in the magic of their wedding day, savoring the most beautiful moment of their lives.

As the ceremony began, Pandit Ji started chanting the mantras, his voice steady and soothing. The sacred words filled the air, while the guests showered the couple with their blessings and good wishes. The atmosphere was charged with love and anticipation.

Shehnaaz and her friends stood close to the mandap, their eyes fixed on the ceremony. Shehnaaz, though standing a bit apart, was fully immersed in the joy of the occasion. Her gaze frequently wandered to Sidharth, who stood at a distance with his mother. His eyes, however, were constantly drawn to her, each glance filled with affection and admiration.

In the midst of the ceremony, Mayank shot apologetic glances at Ankita, but she remained unfazed, thoroughly enjoying the spotlight. Ranbir, observing the playful exchanges, was amused until Nisha gave him a playful, yet firm, nudge, causing him to wince.

The moment arrived when Baaz delicately hooked the mangal sutra around Leher’s neck. She closed her eyes in a serene gesture of acceptance, the significance of the ritual clear in her demeanor.

The mandap was filled with a sense of solemnity and joy as the couple took another step in their journey together, surrounded by the warmth and blessings of their loved ones.

Baaz looked at Leher, his heart swelling with a profound sense of satisfaction. As he observed his bride, her downcast eyes and rosy cheeks spoke volumes. She was now a married woman, the beloved wife of Shehbaaz Gill, and the happiness radiating from her was unmistakable.

The couple was showered with rose petals, a beautiful shower of love and blessings. Pandit Ji continued with the sacred mantras, his voice creating an ethereal ambiance. Baaz followed the ritual and filled Leher’s maang with sindoor, a vibrant symbol of their union. The red hue adorned her forehead, marking her as a bride and filling her with the color of love.

Shehnaaz watched the beautiful rituals with dreamy eyes, her gaze often drifting to Sidharth. He stood at the opposite end of the mandap, and their eyes met across the space. The connection between them was palpable; it felt as though their hearts were communicating silently, bypassing the need for words.

As Sidharth’s eyes locked onto hers, Shehnaaz felt a warm, sturdy sensation inside her. Her heart thudded with a sweet, aching longing, urging her to reach out and embrace him. She imagined how it would feel when it would be their turn to sit in such a setting, sharing these sacred moments. It was a thought that brought a smile to her lips and a flutter to her heart.

In that silent exchange, their hearts seemed to converse without the need for spoken confessions. The depth of their connection was such that even across the distance, their emotions reached each other effortlessly. They didn’t need words; their shared gaze was enough to convey the bond they shared.

As the ceremony continued, the air was filled with a sense of unity and love, and Shehnaaz couldn’t help but dream of the future. She imagined the day when she would be the bride, sitting beside Sidharth, sharing these precious moments of their own. For now, they shared a silent understanding, their hearts intertwined and resonating with the unspoken promise of their future together.

Pandit Ji called Leher’s parents forward for the sacred Kanyadan ceremony. The atmosphere was thick with respect and reverence as every pair of eyes focused on the momentous occasion.

Baaz was instructed to raise his hand, and Leher’s hand was gently placed atop his. Baaz clasped her palm firmly, a gesture of promise and unity. The kaliren on Leher’s bangles chimed softly, their delicate sound adding a touch of happiness to the scene.

Leher’s parents placed a flower on her hand, a traditional offering symbolizing their blessings. A tender smile, mingled with tears of joy, appeared on Leher’s face as Baaz brought her hand to his forehead and touched it gently. The kaliren twinkled once more, their soft chime echoing the sentiment of the moment.

Shehnaaz’s eyes were filled with excitement and adoration as she observed the rituals unfolding before her. Her gaze frequently shifted to Sidharth, her heart fluttering with each glance. When their eyes met, her lips curved into a smile. His gaze was unwavering, focused solely on her, making her feel cherished and special.

Sidharth closed his eyes momentarily, a silent assurance of his presence and support. When he opened them again, it was as if he was communicating a promise without words. He was there for her—whenever she needed him, whenever she wished to talk, whenever she felt the urge to share her thoughts. His eyes spoke of his commitment to always be by her side.

In those moments of silent communication, Shehnaaz felt enveloped by his unwavering love. The connection between them was palpable, and she understood that she would always find comfort in his strong embrace. His presence was a constant reassurance that no matter what, she would never be alone. Wrapped in the warmth of his love, she knew that he would always be there for her, ready to offer his support and affection.

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Shikhar observed the ceremony with a simmering frustration that seemed to grow with each passing moment. Every glance Shehnaaz cast towards someone else, and every glance others cast towards her, only fueled his anger further. He seethed silently, his displeasure evident in the clenched fists at his sides.

The sight of Shehnaaz’s attention being divided, especially towards Sidharth, was unbearable to him. It felt like a personal betrayal, a sting that ignited his fury. His eyes darkened with jealousy and resentment as he watched Sidharth’s attentive gaze linger on Shehnaaz. To Shikhar, it was an affront—an intrusion into what he believed was rightfully his.

The more he witnessed the interaction between Shehnaaz and Sidharth, the more his anger flared. The fact that someone else could hold her attention, that Sidharth could look at her with such affection, was a wound that cut deep. In Shikhar ’s mind, they would pay a heavy price for their perceived betrayal. He felt a burning need for retribution, an urge to make them understand the gravity of their actions.

As the ceremony continued, Shikhar ’s frustration only intensified. He resolved that Shehnaaz and Sidharth would have to face the consequences of their actions. The resentment festered within him, a dark cloud that promised trouble ahead. For now, he stewed in his anger, plotting how he would make them pay for what he saw as a personal affront.

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