Chapter 36

Shehnaaz’s right hand’s fingers slipped naturally between the spaces of his left hand, her grip tightening as she raised her chin to take in the sight of his calm, comforting face. “I love you,” she confessed softly, just like she had done the very first time. Her voice was filled with sincerity and simplicity, like a whisper that held her entire world.

At her words, a rush of warmth flooded through Sidharth, his heart swelling with an indescribable emotion. He pulled her closer, tightening his arm around her waist, needing to feel her even nearer. He leaned down, pressing his lips gently to her forehead, his voice low and filled with affection, “I love you too, mera bachha…”

Shehnaaz’s eyes fluttered shut as she felt his lips rest on her forehead, a wave of contentment spreading through her entire being. It felt like her heart was finally at peace, like everything in the world had aligned perfectly in that single moment. This man – this perfect man with the looks of a Greek God, who was a perfect son, a devoted brother, and the most loving partner – was hers. The realization sent a shiver of joy through her.

She wondered how she ever got so lucky. What had she done in her life to deserve him? How did their paths manage to cross in such a miraculous way? It felt almost too good to be true, yet at the same time, she believed she was always meant to be his, created by destiny for him alone.

“Mujhe ghar nahi jana…” she murmured, making the most unexpected demand, her voice filled with a playful stubbornness. Sidharth couldn’t help but chuckle at her words. She pouted her lips in that adorable way that always melted his heart, her nose nuzzling lazily against his chest like she was a little girl seeking comfort.

He brushed his fingers gently through her hair, his eyes following the strands like they were the most fascinating thing he had ever seen. Finally, his gaze met hers, filled with tenderness, “Kal college hai na, jaan… you’ve already missed enough classes…”

Her face turned grumpy, a soft frown forming on her forehead as she playfully slapped her hand against his chest. She wrapped her small arms around his broad frame, pulling herself closer, almost like she was afraid he’d vanish if she let go. “Agar main nahi reh payi aapke bina toh…?” she asked, her voice soft, filled with an innocence that tugged at his heartstrings.

Sidharth felt his heart clench at her words. Her simple, innocent question held so much depth, so much truth. He felt a pang in his chest, understanding her completely. He wanted to lighten the moment, but his voice came out more earnest than he intended, “Toh I will kidnap you and take you with me forever…” he said, attempting a joke but knowing full well he meant every word.

He knew, deep down, that they couldn’t bear to be apart from each other. Each day without her seemed harder than the one before. It was as if they were two halves of the same soul, meant to be together always.

A mischievous sparkle appeared in Shehnaaz’s eyes as a silly idea popped into her mind. She bit her lip, trying to contain the grin threatening to spread across her face. She blinked rapidly, her playful expression making Sidharth chuckle again. He felt a mix of amusement and confusion, watching her face closely. “Kya chal raha hai tumhare dimag mein…?” he asked, curiosity getting the better of him.

Shehnaaz giggled softly, a playful twinkle in her eyes, as she continued to chew on her lower lip. The sight was driving Sidharth to the brink of his self-control. He groaned softly, reaching out to gently brush his thumb against her lip, silently urging her to stop. This was a delicate moment, and if he allowed himself to give in, he knew he wouldn’t be able to hold back — and once they started, they wouldn’t stop.

Noticing the faraway look in his eyes, Shehnaaz seized the opportunity. A mischievous smile spread across her face as she leaned forward suddenly, pulling at his T-shirt. Before he could react, she slipped her head inside, her giggles filling the small space between them. Sidharth gasped, startled, “Baby, kya kar rahi ho…” he whispered, half-laughing, half-bewildered, though he made no move to stop her.

She raised herself until her head was resting against his neck, wrapping her arms tightly around him beneath the fabric. Her voice was soft, but there was a firmness to her words, “Aap mere ho.”

Sidharth was momentarily stunned, caught off guard by her sudden, playful gesture. But the unexpectedness of it all melted his heart. Her arms were wrapped snugly around him, her warmth pressing into him. He smiled and held her even closer, feeling a rush of affection. “Pagal hai mera bachha… bilkul pagal…” he whispered, his voice filled with tenderness.

Shehnaaz giggled again and placed a soft kiss on his collarbone, her eyes growing heavy with sleep. Wrapped in his warmth, she felt a calmness settle over her, and her eyelids fluttered shut. Her last words before sleep claimed her were a soft, dreamy whisper, “Aap sirf mere ho.”

“sirf tumhara..” Sidharth felt a wave of serenity wash over him. He smiled and closed his eyes, knowing she was safe in his arms, held close to his heart. It was the most peaceful sleep he had ever known, feeling her breathing slow, her presence nestled against him, exactly where she was meant to be.

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As the afternoon drifted away, Sidharth started the car, and they sped through the streets, beginning their journey back home. The air was thick with the promise of rain, and the dark clouds gathered above seemed ready to burst at any moment.

Shehnaaz, still a little groggy from sleep, pouted and grumbled, “Aap ne mujhe neend se uthaya…” She crunched noisily on a handful of chips, clearly displeased at being woken up.

Sidharth glanced at her with a gentle smile and shook his head, “Look at the sky, baby. Heavy baarish hone wali hai probably… We better be back in Mumbai rather than getting stuck on the way.”

Shehnaaz sighed deeply, letting her head rest against his shoulder. She picked up a chip and playfully pushed it to his lips, insisting he take a bite. “Fir bhi aap ko punishment milega…” she mumbled with a mock-serious face.

He chuckled softly, amused by her little threat, “Well… yahan mein tumhare liye chhota sa surprise plan kar raha hun… and you’re talking about punishing me? Huh?”

Her curiosity piqued immediately, and she sat up straight, her eyes wide with excitement. “Hayy rabba, sachchi? Batao na, kya surprise hai?” she asked eagerly, her entire face lighting up with anticipation.

Sidharth couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. He glanced over at her, noticing how she was now clinging to his arm like a child waiting for a treat. He leaned over and placed a soft kiss on her hair, inhaling the familiar scent of her shampoo, before focusing back on the road. “Just a little patience, Naaz…”

Shehnaaz’s grin grew even wider, her excitement bubbling over like a little kid on her birthday. She suddenly piped up, “Mujhe ice cream chahiye…” Her voice had that familiar mix of demand and sweetness that always made Sidharth smile.

He rolled his eyes, pretending to be stern. “Either surprise or ice cream… choose one, baby,” he replied, knowing full well that she had caught sight of him buying ice cream earlier, which he had kept safely in the ice bag. His baby wasn’t as innocent as she liked to pretend.

Shehnaaz let out a dramatic huff, trying to show her annoyance, “Offooo… kya connection hai dono mein.”

Sidharth just smirked, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Connection hai…” he replied, keeping his focus on the road. Without saying another word, he sped up the car, moving with purpose toward his planned destination. After a short drive, he brought the car to a stop and turned to her, “Let’s go.”

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened with excitement, lighting up like a child on a surprise trip. “Omg, Sidharth!” she squealed, her voice full of pure joy. She didn’t wait for another second and dashed out of the car, sprinting toward the water, her laughter echoing in the air. Sidharth watched her run with a broad smile, his heart feeling light and happy as he followed behind her.

—

Just off the road, there was a small waterfall, hidden from the busy highway but close enough to be a spontaneous stop. Sidharth had hoped the place would be relatively empty because he knew what would happen next — controlling Shehnaaz around water was always a challenge. She lost all sense of restraint whenever she saw water, becoming like a carefree child, and he loved watching that side of her.

As he reached the waterfall, he found her exactly as he expected — standing directly under the cascading water, her hands raised high, spinning and jumping with joy, like a child experiencing rain for the first time. She was drenched, but the smile on her face was brighter than ever.

Sidharth stood back for a moment, shaking his head with an affectionate grin. “Very bad… you left your Jana behind,” he called out teasingly, watching her from a distance. This kind of thing wasn’t really his style — getting soaked under a waterfall wasn’t his idea of fun — but seeing her so happy made it all worth it. She was his girl, his everything, and he was determined to make sure she loved every second they spent together.

Shehnaaz was lost in her own world, dancing under the water, giggling to herself, reveling in the moment, and savoring her little happiness. She looked so free, so alive — it was infectious.

But then Sidharth noticed a small group of people approaching, and he saw a few boys walking toward the waterfall, their curious eyes focused on Shehnaaz. His protective instinct kicked in. “Baby, ab bas… let’s go,” he called out in a firmer tone.

Shehnaaz recognized his voice immediately. She followed his gaze and noticed the group of boys nearing the waterfall. She understood what he was worried about, and her playful smile softened into a gentle one.

Shehnaaz instantly moved toward him, her playful spirit now more subdued. She reached for his hand, and they made their way back to the car. Sidharth stood outside, his eyes scanning the surroundings protectively, while Shehnaaz slipped into the back seat to change into dry clothes. He quickly turned on the car’s heater to make sure she wouldn’t catch a cold or feel that familiar sinus pain that often troubled her.

By the time they were back on the road toward Mumbai, Shehnaaz, warm and cozy, had drifted off to sleep with her head resting comfortably on Sidharth’s bicep. He drove with one arm while the other held her close, ensuring her sleep was undisturbed. Her soft breaths, the gentle rise and fall of her chest, brought a smile to his lips. He loved seeing her so at peace.

When they finally reached the Gill mansion, Sidharth parked the car in front and carefully scooped her up into his arms, cradling her against his chest. She didn’t stir, lost in her dreams. Sidharth carried her inside with a tenderness that reflected his deep love. As he walked in, Jasbeera Ji, who had been waiting in the living room, smiled at the sight of them but quickly looked away, feeling slightly embarrassed by the intimacy of the moment. Sidharth gave her a warm, reassuring smile, silently conveying that he understood.

With gentle steps, he climbed the stairs to Shehnaaz’s room. He laid her softly on the bed, pulling the duvet up to her chin to keep her warm. His eyes lingered on her peaceful face for a moment, and he leaned down to press a tender kiss on her forehead. “love…” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

Every bit of him hated this — having to leave her here, alone in her room. She belonged with him, in their home, not here. But for now, this was how it had to be. He sighed, his heart heavy, and turned to leave.

Walking back downstairs, Sidharth paused in front of Jasbeera Ji, bending down to touch her feet respectfully. She gave him a soft smile, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and maternal warmth. “Maa, thik hai woh ab,” Sidharth assured her, knowing how much she worried about Shehnaaz. Jasbeera Ji’s face softened with hope, and she nodded slightly, comforted by his words.

Over the past few days, Sidharth had visited the Gill mansion often to check on Shehnaaz. Each time, he and Jasbeera Ji had bonded a little more. She had taken to pampering him, treating him like her own son, and Sidharth, in turn, found himself drawn to her warmth and kindness. In her, he found another mother — one who welcomed him with open arms and a caring heart.

“Main dar gayi thi, puttar…” Jasbeera Ji said with a touch of lingering worry, then headed to the kitchen to prepare Sidharth some coffee and a bite to eat.

Sidharth accepted just the coffee, and when Jasbeera Ji pouted at him, he playfully complained about how her daughter had force-fed him those peculiar chips. Jasbeera Ji couldn’t help but laugh at his light-hearted complaint.

After their chat, Sidharth soon left for Shukla Mansion, with a heavy heart.

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Shehnaaz slowly opened her eyes, a flutter of nerves dancing in her stomach. She rubbed her eyes and looked around, only to find herself alone in bed. A wave of disappointment washed over her as she realized that Sidharth had left, even though it was expected. The emptiness around her felt heavy, and sadness crept back into her heart.

Just then, her phone rang, snapping her from her thoughts. She quickly grabbed her bag from the study table, a hopeful smile spreading across her face as she answered the call. “Hello… Sidharth? Aap kahaan ho? Aap mujhe bina bole chale gaye… mujhe uthaya kyun nahi aapne? Aise koi karta hai kya? Pata hai mujhe kitna bura laga… Main abhi uthi na…” She trailed off when she didn’t hear him respond. “Hello…?”

Sidharth chuckled softly on the other end of the line. “And that proves my baby is perfectly fine,” he said, feeling a sense of relief as he listened to her familiar chatter. He had been worried that she might be upset when she woke up alone.

Shehnaaz rolled her eyes and made a face. “Mujhe aap se baat nahi karni,” she said, trying to sound annoyed but unable to hide the warmth in her voice.

Sidharth’s smile was evident through his voice. “Achha, go… have dinner first and then call me.” Shehnaaz huffed, knowing he was right, and agreed to his suggestion.

Just then, Rita Ji walked into Sidharth’s room, a teasing smile on her face. “Sidharth…” she began, “You’re back? And here I was hoping you’d at least take out my bahu for a couple of days.” She smirked playfully, adding a touch of light-heartedness to the conversation.

Sidharth rolled his eyes playfully as he wrapped his arms around his mother. “Maa, I have an important meeting tomorrow, and your ladli bahu has college,” he said, trying to sound exasperated but with a soft smile that betrayed his affection.

As he looked at his mother, he couldn’t help but marvel at how she always managed to come up with such mischievous ideas. It made him understand why Anu and Vicky were so playful and spirited.

Rita Ji shook her head, her expression a mix of affection and mild frustration. “You and your work… God, Sid. She needs you right now, beta.” Her voice was filled with concern for Shehnaaz, who she knew was going through a tough time.

Sidharth’s smile widened as he reached for a small bottle of oil from the side table. Handing it to his mother, he settled himself on the floor next to her, resting his head on her lap. “She’s okay now, Maa. Trust me, please,” he said gently, trying to reassure her.

Rita Ji rolled her eyes with a teasing smile. “Sid, I haven’t even changed yet,” she said, her tone light but tinged with amusement. She chuckled softly, imagining how he would probably insist on Shehnaaz getting a champi every night, just like he used to.

Despite her playful resistance, Rita Ji took a bit of oil and began to massage it into Sidharth’s hair. As she worked, the comforting sensation of her touch and the familiar warmth of their conversation filled the room. They continued to chat, the ease of their bond evident in the way they interacted, each enjoying the other’s company and the simple comfort of being together.

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Shehnaaz smiled warmly as Jasbeera Ji lovingly fed her with her own hands, the comfort of her presence wrapping around her like a warm blanket. As they talked about their recent outing, Shehnaaz excitedly shared all the fun they had, her eyes sparkling with the joy of the memories.

Mahi, watching the interaction with a playful pout, said, “Next time, I’ll come too.” Shehnaz, with a mischievous glint in her eye, teased, “Kabab me haddi,” deliberately ruffling Mahi’s feathers. “I’ll tell jiju that you’re the best,” she added, making Mahi’s grumpiness even more evident.

Jasbeera Ji observed her daughters’ playful bickering with a smile, feeling a sense of relief seeing Shehnaaz back to her cheerful self. The sight of their lighthearted banter warmed her heart. Yet, she couldn’t help but wonder how things would change once Leher arrived. Leher had been staying with her parents since Uttara’s passing, and Jasbeera Ji was curious about the dynamics that would unfold with her presence.

Jasbeera Ji felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude towards Sidharth. Over the past few days, he had taken exceptional care of Shehnaaz, and she couldn’t thank him enough. The thought of him brought a soft smile to her lips. She felt blessed that Wahe Guru Ji had brought such a perfect son-in-law into Sana’s life. Sidharth was truly a gem, embodying everything she could wish for in a son-in-law.

By the time Sidharth tried to call Shehnaaz, she was fast asleep, and her phone’s gentle ring went unnoticed. Understanding his beloved’s deep slumber, Sidharth decided not to call again. He lay down on his bed with a deep sigh, feeling a pang of emptiness in his chest. He missed her profoundly. His heart ached for her presence, craving the comfort of her embrace. Despite her maturity and the grace she showed, which often surprised him, she was still his baby, his heart’s cherished one.

Just that afternoon, she had been nestled against his chest, wrapped in his t-shirt. To hold onto the remnants of that closeness, he wore the same t-shirt again. As he closed his eyes, he clung to the lingering warmth of her presence, hoping that sleep would bring him closer to her in some way.

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A new day dawned, bringing with it the routine hustle and bustle of life. Shehnaaz made her way to college, her mind occupied with the usual morning thoughts. However, her eyes widened in surprise, noticing four bodyguards stationed near her. A frown etched on her face, she immediately dialed Sidharth’s number, her voice tinged with grumpiness.

“Agar ye bodyguards mere liye hain, toh main sachi muchhi gussa hone wali hoon,” she said, her frustration evident.

On the other end of the line, Sidharth couldn’t help but chuckle at her adorable, grumpy tone. He stopped himself from typing out an email and responded warmly, “Well yes, good morning to you too, jaan.”

Realizing she had jumped straight to anger without a proper greeting, Shehnaaz bit her lip, feeling a bit sheepish. “Offoo Jana, mujhe nahi chahiye bodyguard,” she insisted, her tone softening slightly.

Sidharth sighed, his voice gentle but firm. “They are for your safety, mera bachha. I know you don’t like it, but it’s not really a matter of choice anymore.”

Shehnaaz pouted, her frustration giving way to a hint of playfulness. “Raat ko aap ne mujhe call kyun nahi kiya?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She grinned cutely, admitting in her own way that she was the one who had missed his call.

Sidharth shook his head with a smile. Despite her playful antics, she remained his adorable, mischievous little one. “The last I remember,” he said with a chuckle, “someone didn’t pick Jana’s call.”

Sidharth was absorbed in his phone call with Shehnaaz when he heard a knock at his cabin door. “Come in,” he called out, assuming it was Ritika. The door opened, and Ritika walked in, her face lighting up with a warm smile. She was thrilled to see Sidharth; his recent absence from the office had left a noticeable void, and she had missed his presence.

As Ritika entered, Sidharth’s was completely engrossed on hid call with shehnaaz. He could still hear her anxious voice on the line, “Mujhe dar lag raha hai jana..” Her fear was evident, and it tugged at his heart. He listened closely as she spoke, her anxiety palpable through the phone. “Isme darne ki kya baat hai, haan? You are a strong girl. Now go and meet your friends,” Sidharth reassured her, trying to infuse his voice with confidence and warmth. He hoped his words would help ease her fears.

Shehnaaz’s response was a soft agreement before she went on her way to college, though Sidharth could still sense the lingering worry in her tone.

As Sidharth hung up the call, he was momentarily lost in thought, reflecting on Shehnaaz’s words and her distress. His concern for her was still fresh, even as he tried to focus on the present moment.

Ritika, observing Sidharth’s distracted demeanor, felt a twinge of curiosity but chose to remain silent. She wasn’t sure who Sidharth had been speaking to or what the conversation was about, but she could sense that he was preoccupied. 

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Shehnaaz walked through the college corridor, a small sigh of relief escaping her lips as she noticed the absence of prying eyes. The usual crowd of students who often stared at her seemed to be missing today, offering her a brief respite.

Entering her classroom, she was greeted by the familiar faces of Mayank, Anu, Ankita, and Nisha, each of them smiling warmly at her. Their expressions were a mixture of relief and concern, reflecting the bond they shared.

Shehnaaz made her way to an empty seat beside Anu, who immediately enveloped her in a comforting hug. The warmth of Anu’s embrace was a small but significant comfort, easing some of the anxiety Shehnaaz had been carrying. The support of her friends was like a balm to her troubled soul.

Returning the hug with a soft, appreciative smile, Shehnaaz asked in a gentle voice, “Ranbir kab join kar raha hai?” She asked the question more out of habit than genuine curiosity, feeling strangely disconnected from her usual self. The question seemed to float in the air, highlighting her sense of disorientation.

Mayank, who had been observing her closely, responded with a reassuring smile, “Probably next week se. Tu thik hai na?” His concern was evident in his tone, and he looked at her with genuine care.

Shehnaaz nodded quietly, but the effort to keep her composure was evident. She looked down, feeling tears welling up in her eyes, threatening to break free. The mix of emotions was overwhelming, and she struggled to maintain her calm.

Nisha, sensing Shehnaaz’s distress, quickly moved closer and wrapped her in a tight hug. “Maaf kar de na yaar, galati ho gayi teri Nishu se,” Nisha’s words were filled with remorse and affection. The sincere apology and warm embrace from Nisha brought tears to Shehnaaz’s eyes, and she burst into a quiet sob. The comforting presence of her friends was a stark contrast to the loneliness she had felt recently.

The classroom wasn’t yet full, but a few curious glances were cast their way. Shehnaaz and Nisha remained in their embrace, drawing strength from each other amidst the whispered murmurs of onlookers.

Mayank, who had been observing the situation, sighed heavily. “I think aaj hume class bunk karna chahiye,” he suggested, his voice carrying a tone of decision and concern. The idea of skipping class was unusual for him, and it showed just how much he valued Shehnaaz’s well-being over their studies.

Anu’s eyes widened in surprise at Mayank’s proposal. The thought of bunking lectures was indeed out of character for him, and it reflected how deeply he cared about Shehnaaz. Her surprise was palpable, but so was her understanding of the situation.

“ohh godd.. look who is talking about bunking class..” Anu’s playful remark about bunking classes seemed to lift everyone’s spirits just a little as they quickly made their way out of the classroom before the professor arrived. The group walked towards the garden area, finding solace under their favorite tree, a spot that had always been their safe haven. They sat down, hoping to find some peace amidst the storm of emotions that had been brewing for days.

Ankita sighed deeply, her voice tinged with sadness, “Bas… ab koi nahi royega… Uttara humesha hum sab ko hasati thi… aur ab use kitna bura lag raha hoga, humare aise faces dekh kar…” She was trying to remind them of the happiness Uttara always brought, but her own voice quivered with emotion.

Anu nodded in agreement, “Aur ek aur baat… Ranbir jald se jald thik hokar humare sath hoga..” She tried to sound optimistic, her eyes searching her friends’ faces for a glimmer of hope.

Mayank, attempting to lighten the mood, grinned and added, “Absolutely! Aur jab tak woh nahi aata… tum Ranbir ke behalf pe mujhe maar sakte ho…” His attempt at humor did bring a few chuckles, but the undercurrent of sorrow was still there, lingering like a shadow.

The girls giggled softly, but soon, the giggles were replaced by silent tears. Each of them tried hard not to let the others see their pain. They all missed Uttara dearly, and the absence of Ranbir was like an unhealed wound that stung with every passing second. No one wanted to be the one to show weakness, but they all felt the same heartache.

Just then, Shehnaz’s phone rang, breaking the fragile silence. Her cheeks flushed red, and she quickly picked up the call. All eyes turned to her with a mix of curiosity and mischief. She tried to stay calm, knowing who it was. “Main aap ko thodi der mein call karti hun…” she mumbled cutely, trying to keep her voice steady, and ended the call before Sidharth could say anything.

Shehnaz looked up and was met with a sea of amused faces, each one waiting for her to explain. She tried to play it cool, flashing a cute but clearly nervous smile, “What is it?” she asked, but immediately realized it was the wrong question. She already knew what was coming.

Nisha grinned widely, leaning in with a teasing look. “Exactly, Ms. Shehnaz Gill… what is it?” she echoed, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Shehnaz felt her cheeks flush a deeper shade of red as she cleared her throat, trying to act nonchalant, “Kya bol rahe ho tum log…” she said, attempting to brush it off while nervously tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. She was trying to maintain her composure, but her friends were not going to let her off that easily.

Nisha and Ankita exchanged a knowing look, their smirks growing wider. Nisha leaned in with a playful grin, “Ab aap hume batayengi… ye world’s most interesting love story between Sidharth Shukla and Shehnaaz Gill… kab shuru huyi?” she teased, drawing out each word with exaggerated emphasis.

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