Chapter 40

As Jasbeera ji muttered to herself, “Kya jarurat thi tujhe aise upar jaane ki… hayye rabba, main bhi na, ekdum jhalli hoon,” she bustled around the kitchen, her heart still racing from the unexpected scene she’d stumbled upon just moments earlier. She had only meant to surprise Sidharth with his favorite gajar ka halwa, a gesture of affection. The thought of bringing a smile to his face warmed her heart, and she felt certain that Shehnaaz would also enjoy the treat.

But fate had played a tricky hand. When she had gone upstairs to call them for the treat, expecting to see them perhaps talking or sharing a light moment, she’d found herself witnessing something far more intimate. Sidharth had Shehnaaz in his embrace, his forehead gently pressed to hers in a tender peck.

Jasbeera ji had been horrified. What if she had gone up just a moment earlier? The very thought sent her into a flustered spiral. The idea of accidentally intruding on such a private moment between them made her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She hadn’t known where to look or what to say, so she’d left quickly, her heart pounding and her mind racing.

“Wahe guruji, maaf karna… agar main thoda jaldi unke kamre mein chali jaati toh… nahi, nahi! Mujhe toh soch ke hi sharam aa rahi hai,” she muttered to herself as she moved through the kitchen. “In dono ki jaldi se shaadi karwani padegi… warna pata nahi, aur kitni baar aise ajeeb ajeeb haadse hote rahenge…”

She was so lost in her thoughts and self-talk that she didn’t even notice Sidharth entering the room until his soft voice broke through her musings.

“Maa…”

Jasbeera ji startled slightly but quickly composed herself. She forced her thoughts away from the awkwardness of earlier and focused on her son, adopting a calm tone as she replied, “Aa gaye tum dono… maine tumhare liye gajar ka halwa banaya hai… tumhe pasand toh hai na?”

For a split second, she feared Sidharth might sense her discomfort, but his relaxed expression and relieved sigh reassured her. He had no idea what she had seen, and she thanked Waheguru for that small mercy.

“Haan, maa, I love it,” Sidharth replied warmly, his tone affectionate as he met her gaze. His smile brought a sense of ease back to her heart.

Shehnaaz, still a bit flustered from the earlier moment herself, stepped forward and offered to help Jasbeera ji in the kitchen. She busied herself with serving the halwa, glad for the distraction and the chance to avoid looking Sidharth in the eyes for a few minutes. Her heart was still racing from the intimacy they had shared upstairs.

Shehnaaz’s mind wandered back to the feeling of Sidharth’s embrace, his warmth, the gentle way he had kissed her forehead. Her cheeks tinged pink again as she remembered the softness in his eyes, the affection in his touch. It had all felt so natural, yet it left her breathless, overwhelmed with emotions she couldn’t quite name.

Meanwhile, Sidharth, still riding the quiet joy from that private moment, walked into the living room. His thoughts were filled with Shehnaaz, how perfectly she fit in his arms, how he had longed for moments like these without even realizing it. But he also felt a strange sense of calm, like everything was falling into place.

As he entered the room, he was greeted by Rajender ji, who had just arrived. Rajender ji’s face lit up with joy and surprise at seeing him.

“Arre bete! You could have called me, son. I would have come earlier,” Rajender ji said, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Sidharth smiled as he hugged Rajender ji tightly, the warmth of their bond evident. “Papaji, main Shehnaaz se milne aaya tha… I had promised her,” Sidharth explained, his voice soft yet filled with meaning.

As they broke the hug, Jasbeera ji and Shehnaaz stepped out of the kitchen, the sweet aroma of freshly made gajar ka halwa filling the air. Jasbeera ji’s face lit up with cheer as she spotted her husband. “Arre aap… achha hua jaldi aa gaye! Jaldi se fresh ho jayiye, maine gajar ka halwa banaya hai,” she said with a playful excitement in her voice.

Rajender ji smiled at her energy, but before he could respond, Jasbeera ji playfully faked a funny frown, turning to Sidharth with a teasing comment. “Ye achha hai, aaj damad aaya hai toh gajar ka halwa, aur bechara pati roz aata hai… toh uske liye sirf chai hoti hai!”

Sidharth couldn’t help but chuckle at their light-hearted banter, feeling at ease in the warm, lively atmosphere of their home. He admired the ease with which everyone joked and teased one another, finding comfort in these little moments. Shehnaaz and Jasbeera ji exchanged a glance, both rolling their eyes at Jasbeera ji’s playful antics.

“Ho gaya aapka… ab jayiye na, jaldi fresh ho jayiye!” Jasbeera ji added with a pout, which made Sidharth chuckle even more. The expression on her face reminded him so much of Shehnaaz. It was almost uncanny, the way their mother-daughter similarities stood out in small gestures like these.

Rajender ji, shaking his head with a smile, left to freshen up, still amused by his wife’s playful remarks.

Once they had all gathered after the meal, the room grew quiet as Sidharth shifted slightly in his seat. There was a subtle change in his demeanor. The lightness from earlier had faded, replaced by something more serious. He glanced briefly at Shehnaaz before turning his attention back to Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji.

“Maa, Papaji… mujhe aap dono se kuch baat karni thi,” Sidharth said, his voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of gravity.

Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji, sensing the weight in his tone, exchanged glances. Both of them could tell that whatever Sidharth was about to say wasn’t just a casual conversation. There was something important, something personal, that he needed to share. Jasbeera ji’s cheerful expression softened into one of concern, while Rajender ji leaned forward slightly, waiting for Sidharth to continue.

Meanwhile, Shehnaaz, sitting beside Sidharth, furrowed her brows in confusion. She looked at him with questioning eyes, wondering what he was about to say. 

Sidharth gently placed his plate on the table, his expression serious yet thoughtful, as he asked, “Baaz aur Leher ghar pe to nahi hai na?”

Jasbeera ji, a little puzzled by his question, replied, “Nahi beta, Baaz Leher ko lekar uske mayake gaya hai… is waqt un dono ka wahan hona zyada zaruri hai. Par tum kyun puchh rahe ho? Kya baat hai, beta?”

Sidharth nodded slightly, his mind clearly preoccupied, and then he shifted his gaze towards Shehnaaz. His voice was calm but firm as he said, “Shehnaaz… go to your room.”

Shehnaaz, without hesitation or question, nodded obediently. There was a soft smile on her face, showing her unwavering trust in him. She turned and walked towards her room, leaving the rest behind. This simple exchange between the two left Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji in awe. They had expected Shehnaaz, given her curious nature, to ask questions or perhaps even object, but her calm acceptance spoke volumes. Her trust in Sidharth was profound and pure, something rare and commendable.

Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji exchanged a glance, still digesting the understanding between the couple. It was an unspoken bond—no words were needed for them to communicate. The depth of their connection was clear, and the elders felt a quiet admiration for how naturally Shehnaaz followed Sidharth’s lead.

Once Shehnaaz left, the room’s atmosphere shifted. Sidharth’s demeanor grew even more serious as he addressed both Jasbeera ji and Rajender ji. “Dar asal… maine kuch socha hai,” he began, his voice steady but heavy with emotion. “Ranbir aur Uttara ne mere aur Shehnaaz ke liye… hum sab ke liye jo kiya hai… uski bharpayi karna toh mumkin nahi. Par un dono ki qurbani ko hum yun zaya nahi hone de sakte. Main un dono ke liye kuchh karna chahta hoon.”

As his words sank in, Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji exchanged another look, their eyes filled with emotion. They were deeply touched by Sidharth’s words. It wasn’t just about what he said, but the weight of his intention, his gratitude. The sacrifices made by Ranbir and Uttara had not been in vain, and Sidharth’s determination to honor their memory left a mark on the older couple.

In that moment, they felt an overwhelming sense of pride. This man, Sidharth Shukla, who the world often perceived as someone defined by his power, attitude, and arrogance, was now revealing a side they hadn’t expected. Behind the strong exterior was a man of deep emotions, a man who valued loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. He wasn’t just the man of power; he was a man of gratitude, a man who held onto promises and didn’t forget those who had stood by him.

Jasbeera ji’s eyes welled up with unshed tears, and Rajender ji felt a lump form in his throat. They had always respected Sidharth, never doubting his capabilities, but seeing him in this light—so vulnerable, so emotional—only deepened their admiration for him.

He wasn’t just going to be their damad; he was going to be family, someone they could trust, someone who understood the weight of responsibility and relationships. His words, his determination to honor Ranbir and Uttara’s sacrifice, made them realize just how lucky they were to have him become a part of their lives.

Rajender ji finally found his voice, “To kya socha hai aapne… is bare mein?”

Sidharth sighed, leaning back slightly as he gathered his thoughts. “Is silsile mein aapse baat karna chahta tha… mujhe kuchh special karna hai, par jaldi mein koi faisla nahi lena chahta. Main sab ki raay lena chahta hoon—Shehnaaz ki raay bhi. Sabka input lena zaroori hai, kyunki ye sab uske liye hai… uske doston ke liye hai.”

Jasbeera ji, still a bit confused, asked, “Fir tum ne Shehnaaz ko upar kyun bheja?”

Sidharth smiled softly at her, understanding her confusion. “Maa, aapko pata hai na woh kaisi hai? Abhi yahan hoti toh rona shuru ho jata, firse emotional ho jaati… main usse baad mein baat kar lunga.”

Jasbeera ji couldn’t help but feel awed at how well Sidharth understood Shehnaaz, while Rajender ji smiled, appreciating Sidharth’s concern and patience. “Aap fikar mat karo beta. Main Rita bhabhi ji se baat karke kuchh suggest karta hoon,” Rajender ji offered.

Sidharth nodded in agreement, grateful for their support. But before the conversation could move forward, Jasbeera ji’s expression grew serious as she hesitantly brought up, “Beta… woh Shikhar…”

Sidharth’s expression changed in an instant. His eyes darkened, his face tightening with anger as his jaw clenched. His hands formed into fists briefly before he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to calm himself. When he spoke, his voice was low but filled with a chilling finality. “Maa, aap uski fikar mat kijiye… ab wo meri Shehnaaz ki taraf kabhi ankh uthake dekhne ke bhi kabil nahi raha. He’s in a mental asylum.”

The finality in his tone left no room for further questions. His voice carried a sense of deep control, as if Sidharth had already put an end to that chapter, and no one, not even Shiikhar, could change that.

Jasbeera ji instinctively knew not to push any further. She exchanged a quick glance with Rajender ji, whose face also reflected the understanding that this was a boundary they wouldn’t cross. Sidharth’s protective nature was something they both had immense respect for, but it also held a weight they couldn’t question.

“Main ab chalta hoon…” Sidharth finally said, though his heart longed to catch one last glimpse of his “Mishty.” His eyes, betraying his words, flickered towards the stairs, hoping to see her just once more before he left.

Rajender ji and Jasbeera ji noticed his wandering gaze, and couldn’t help but chuckle at his obvious longing. The affection in their laughter was evident, knowing well how much Sidharth was already missing Shehnaaz even though he hadn’t yet left.

“Aap rukiye, main Shehnaaz ko bula ke laata hoon…” Rajender ji offered with a warm smile, making his way upstairs to get Shehnaaz.

Jasbeera ji, standing beside Sidharth, moved closer, her smile teasing and full of mischief. “Lagta hai… mujhe jaldi hi Sana aur tumhari shaadi ki baat Rita bhabhi ji se karni padegi,” she said in a lighthearted, teasing manner, her tone full of warmth.

Her words, though playful, hit Sidharth like a soft, joyful wave. A shy smile spread across his face as he scratched the back of his head, feeling a little embarrassed but equally happy at the thought. He could feel his cheeks warming up, his usual composed demeanor faltering just a bit under Jasbeera ji’s teasing.

Jasbeera ji, giggling at his bashfulness, gave him a knowing look before walking towards the kitchen, leaving him standing there, still smiling, his heart swelling with emotions. He could almost picture the future she spoke of—the idea of marrying Shehnaaz filling him with a sense of calm and joy.

As Shehnaaz came down the stairs, her face wore the unmistakable expression of sadness, her eyes wide and lips forming a soft pout. “Aap itni jaldi jaa rahe hai..?” she asked, her voice laced with disappointment. The question hung between them, a plea in her soft tone that tugged at Sidharth’s heart.

He let out a gentle sigh, noticing the way her expression had dimmed. Unable to resist comforting her, Sidharth reached out, his fingers softly brushing against her cheek, his touch tender as he nuzzled her knuckles there. It was his way of silently telling her that he hated leaving too.

Taking her small hands in his, he gently kissed them, one after the other. The simple act made Shehnaaz blush, a soft pink blooming across her cheeks, and Sidharth couldn’t help but smile. He lived for these little moments, when her face would light up at his touch, her shyness speaking louder than words. “Late ho gaya na mera bachha,” he whispered, squeezing her hands gently, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath his fingers.

His eyes drank in the sight of her—those pink, flushed cheeks, the way her eyes softened when she looked at him. Moving closer, he bent slightly, pressing a soft kiss on her temple, his lips lingering just for a moment. His breath was warm against her ear as he mumbled, “I never wish to leave you like this… janti ho na tum.” His words were filled with quiet emotion, his gaze holding hers as if he was trying to pour all the unsaid feelings into that single moment.

Shehnaaz’s heart swelled at his words. She nodded, her eyes conveying the understanding between them. She knew how much he missed her, how deeply he cared, even if he didn’t always show it the way she did. Being a man, Sidharth wasn’t as expressive, but she knew. She felt it. And they both knew that there were boundaries they had to respect, certain things that needed to wait until they were bound together by a formal relationship.

“Jana…” Shehnaaz started to say, but the words trailed off as their gazes locked again. There was so much she wanted to tell him, but in that moment, her eyes did the talking. She hoped he could read her feelings—how much she needed him, how hard it was to let him go every time.

Sidharth’s own frustration flickered beneath his calm exterior. He hated that they couldn’t just embrace freely, that the living room wasn’t the place for the kind of closeness he craved. His voice dropped low, intimate. “Am there na… I love you too, Mishty,” he said softly, his words meant just for her, as though no one else existed.

Shehnaaz, instinctively, began to move closer, her body leaning toward the familiar safety of his embrace, but they were interrupted by the sound of Rajender ji descending the stairs. Startled, Shehnaaz quickly stepped back, regaining her composure as her heart fluttered with the need to reply to Sidharth’s words. He caught the hesitation in her eyes, knowing she was holding back her response, but he didn’t push.

“Janta hoon,” he whispered, giving her a look that said he understood. “Go and see what maa is doing in the kitchen.”

Shehnaaz nodded, though her heart was reluctant to leave his side, and headed toward the kitchen where her mother was busy. Sidharth watched her go, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure, his heart heavy with the longing to hold her just a little longer.

For a few moments, he stayed back to chat with Rajender ji, but all the while, his thoughts were still with Shehnaaz. After bidding a polite goodbye to Rajender ji, Sidharth finally took his leave, his mind already counting down the moments until he could be with her again.

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The morning began like any other for Shehnaaz, with the usual rush to get ready and head to college. Sidharth, on the other hand, went off to the office, his posture neutral, though his mind wandered to the phone call they’d shared the previous night. Shehnaaz, with her soft, pleading voice, had been adamant about wanting to fall asleep in his arms. Sidharth’s heart swelled with love as he recalled her sweet demand, the warmth of her voice echoing in his mind.

It had taken every ounce of willpower in him to deny her wish, something he hated doing. But he knew by the time he would reach her place, it would be late, and she needed to rest. He had spoiled her endlessly, he realized. Never before had he imagined himself like this, so indulgent, so soft. No one had ever seen this side of him, the side that Shehnaaz had uncovered effortlessly. She had brought out a version of him that he hadn’t known existed, a version completely at her mercy.

As Sidharth arrived at the office, lost in these thoughts, he was met with Ritika waiting in his cabin. The moment he stepped inside, he adjusted in his chair and addressed her without wasting time, “Yes, Ritika?”

Ritika’s heart fluttered slightly hearing her name in his deep voice, but she quickly brushed the thought aside, forcing herself to stay focused. “Sir… I wanted to thank you. Mujhe achanak itne din ki chhuti leni padi aur aapne permission de di. Thank you, sir.”

Sidharth nodded casually, keeping the conversation professional. “Mathur uncle ki tabiyat kaisi hai ab?”

Ritika gave a weak smile, her exhaustion evident. “Papa ab thik hain, sir. Abhi tak discharge nahi mila hai, but he’s stable now.”

Another nod from Sidharth, and his attention shifted back to work. “Anything else?” he asked, his tone neutral but direct.

Ritika hesitated, nervously rubbing her fingers together. She had more to say but felt uncomfortable, “Thank you again, sir,” she repeated, unsure of how to continue.

Sidharth, now focused on his laptop, replied without lifting his eyes, “If you’re done with your thank you speech, bring me a coffee. And Gupta project ke blueprints ready hain?”

His voice had taken on a sterner edge, and Ritika tensed up, feeling the change in atmosphere. “Sir… main aapse isi ke baare mein baat karne aayi thi…” Her voice faltered as she noticed a flicker of coldness in Sidharth’s expression, a stiffness that made her even more nervous.

“What is it?” Sidharth’s voice grew heavier, more commanding.

Ritika, feeling small under his gaze, mumbled in fear, “Sir, wo… Gupta company ke 30% shareholder, Mr. Aarush Gupta, is creating problems… I mean, sir, wo…”

Sidharth stood up abruptly, his temper flaring, eyes darkening with frustration. “If you can’t speak a single sentence properly, then get out. Send Adi in, now.”

His sharp words cut through the air like a knife, breaking Ritika’s remaining confidence. She felt crushed, humiliated. Without another word, she hurried out of the room, practically running, her heart heavy with disappointment.

Sidharth closed his eyes for a moment, forcing himself to calm down as he sat back down. Just then, there was a knock at the door.

“Come in,” Sidharth called out, his voice now more composed. Adi entered, standing straight with a firm resolve in his voice. “Yes, sir?”

Sidharth, with a calm but authoritative voice, asked, “Adi, what’s the matter with Gupta’s project?”

Adi cleared his throat, feeling the weight of Sidharth’s gaze. “Sir, the issue lies between the Gupta brothers—Mr. Amit Gupta and Mr. Aarush Gupta. They’ve had longstanding differences. The site is under both of their names, but Mr. Amit Gupta didn’t seek his brother’s, that is, his partner’s, permission before commencing work on the project. This led Mr. Aarush to file a complaint, and he successfully obtained a stay order. The site has been sealed, and we no longer have access to it, so the blueprints…”

Adi’s words trailed off as he noticed Sidharth rising from his chair, his face stern and determined.

Sidharth didn’t miss a beat. “Adi, we need to handle this personally. Arrange a meeting with Mr. Amit Gupta. We’ll leave tonight.”

Adi nodded attentively. “Right, sir.” Without hesitation, he left the office to start preparing for the trip.

Sidharth watched him go, then picked up his cell phone, ready to handle the next set of tasks for the day.

Meanwhile, back at college, the gang was hit with an unexpected blow. The lectures had just finished when they got the shocking news that the exams were only a month away. Panic spread like wildfire, and everyone raced to the notice board to confirm the dreadful news.

EXAMS IN A MONTH.

The words sent shivers down their spines. They had been so preoccupied with the wedding season and other distractions that they had completely forgotten about exams. In a frenzy, they scrambled to collect all the notes they had missed and buried their heads in books, realizing how little time they had left.

Ankita made the most miserable face as she scoffed, “In exams ko bhi abhi aana tha… main to pakka fail ho jaungi…”

Anu rolled her eyes and retorted, “Agar aise rotadu shakal banaogi to pakka fail ho jaogi!”

The librarian shot them an angry glare and sternly ordered, “NO NOISE IN LIBRARY.”

Nisha slapped Ankita’s arm, signaling her to be quiet, while Shehnaaz rolled her eyes at their drama and buried her head back into her book.

Mayank, who was sitting right beside Shehnaaz, poked her arm, earning an irritated glare from her for disturbing her focus.

Mayank made a frustrated face and whispered, “Kya bhav kha rahi hai… mujhe Shastri sir ki notes chahiye.”

Shehnaaz bit her tongue, feeling guilty for acting like a know-it-all, and silently passed him the notes, trying not to make any noise.

Ankita looked from one face to another, annoyed at seeing everyone absorbed in their books. Finally giving up, she glanced at Mayank, hoping he would notice her. But the ever-oblivious Mayank had long forgotten he had a girlfriend.

Shehnaaz was deep into her book, attempting to grasp the content, when her phone vibrated suddenly. Making sure the librarian didn’t notice, she carefully picked it up and whispered, “Hello?”

Sidharth was about to speak but paused when he heard her whispering. Confused, he asked, “Jaan… what’s wrong? Tum aise kyun baat kar rahi ho?”

Shehnaaz whispered back a little louder, “Main library mein hoon.”

Sidharth, unable to catch any word other than the muffled “shh… hushh… shh,” grew more concerned. “Mujhe kuchh samajh nahi aa raha… tum kahan ho?”

Rolling her eyes, Shehnaaz raised her voice slightly, “Library mein hoon, baba!” But she was instantly met with the sharp, disapproving glare of the librarian. She quickly hid her phone and flashed an awkward smile, trying to avoid more trouble.

As soon as the librarian looked away, Shehnaaz let out a sigh of relief and placed the phone back to her ear.

Sidharth smirked teasingly, “Ohho… kya baat hai, padhai ho rahi hai… acchi baat hai. Waise ek mahine mein exam hai… toh padhna toh zaroori hai, hai na?”

Shehnaaz’s jaw dropped. She mumbled, “Aapko kaise pata?”

Mentally raising his collar in pride, Sidharth replied smugly, “Sidharth Shukla se kuchh bhi chhupa nahi reh sakta.”

Shehnaaz scoffed in a low voice, “Jab aapko pata tha, toh pehle kyun nahi bataya?”

Sidharth, amused by her irritation, rolled his eyes, “Jaan, kya bol rahi ho? I can’t understand… Achha, tum bahar aao.”

Shehnaaz nodded as if he could see her, making her way out of the library. Her friends noticed but dipped their heads back into their books with mischievous smiles, knowing exactly what was happening.

Once outside, Shehnaaz sighed and said into the phone, “Haan, toh ab bataiye Mr. Sidharth Shukla, aapne pehle kyun nahi bataya?”

Sidharth chuckled, “Sweetheart, mujhe bhi bas 10 minute pehle hi pata chala. Aur jab tak main tumhe batata, tumne khud hi bol diya ke tum library mein ho.”

Shehnaaz pouted, “Phir bhi… aapko pata hai main kitni tension mein hoon.”

Smiling at her baby-like complaints, Sidharth shook his head, “Achha baba, tum gate ke bahar aao… I’m waiting here.”

Excitement surged through Shehnaaz, and she immediately ran outside. Breathless, she opened the car door and flopped onto the passenger seat beside Sidharth, quickly closing the door behind her.

Sidharth chuckled at her childlike enthusiasm, pulling her into a warm bear hug. He gently kissed her forehead, and Shehnaaz rested her head against his chest, trying to steady her breath.

After a moment of silence, Sidharth whispered, “Are you okay now?”

Shehnaaz nodded softly, her face still buried in his chest as she slowly lifted her head to meet his eyes.

Shehnaaz gave her beautiful smile, melting Sidharth as he complained in a softer voice than he had intended, “Aise bhaagne ki kya zarurat thi? Main kahin bhaga to nahi ja raha… yahi tha na?”

Shehnaaz made a baby face, and Sidharth couldn’t bring himself to scold her any further, even though he had intended to before. He was just expressing his mild annoyance in the softest voice possible.

Encircling his arm around her waist, he pulled her closer, making her sit in his lap. Shehnaaz couldn’t resist and settled down with a wide smile, excitement dancing in her eyes.

“Aapko kaise pata chala exams ke baare mein?” she asked curiously.

Instead of answering directly, Sidharth smiled and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. His fingers lingered on her skin for just a moment too long as he replied, “Meri tumhari principal se baat hui… tab mujhe pata chala.”

“Ohh…” Shehnaaz sighed, resting her head back on his chest and closing her eyes.

Sidharth sensed the sadness in her voice. Worried, he gently brushed his fingers through her hair, caressing it as he whispered softly in her ear, “Jaan, itni udaas kyun lag rahi ho? Kya hua, batao mujhe…”

Shehnaaz nuzzled her nose against his chest and mumbled, “Mujhe bahut dar lag raha hai…”

Shocked, Sidharth pulled her face away from his chest, cupping it in his hands as he looked at her with concern. “baby, kya hua? Kya tumhe kisi ne phir pareshan kiya? Batao mujhe abhi…”

Shehnaaz rolled her eyes and slapped his chest playfully, frowning. “Jana, aap bhi na… main exams ki baat kar rahi hun!”

Sighing in relief, Sidharth settled her head back on his chest and chuckled, “Ohho… baby ko exams se dar lag raha hai… so sad…”

Shehnaaz looked up at him, her mouth forming an O shape as she scoffed, “Aap mujhe tang kar rahe hain… yahan exams ke dar se mujhe kuchh bhi sujh nahi raha hai… aur aap hain ke… chhaddo…” With that, she started to move away.

But Sidharth, being Sidharth, pulled her even closer, almost crushing her into his strong chest. He looked at her lovingly and said, “Sorry, baby…”

Shehnaaz shot him an annoyed look. “Aap na… jab sorry bolna hota hai, tabhi mujhe baby bolte hain… kyunki aapko pata hai ke baby bolne ke baad mera gussa chala jayega… not fair… so not fair…”

Sidharth stared at her endlessly, overwhelmed by her charm. He just wanted to devour her right there. Oh God, she was his undoing. Unable to control himself, he nuzzled his nose against her jawline, making her breath hitch at his touch. “Jab tum aise soni soni baatein karti ho, toh tumhe kha jane ka man karta hai…”

Her frowning face turned almost pink as she playfully hit his chest with her fist and buried her face into his neck. “Offoo… aise mat bolona… meko idhar gudgudi hoti hai…” she mumbled cutely while pointing towards her waist.

Sidharth smiled, rubbing her back to warm her up. “But I like teasing you… and I’m not quitting it.”

Shehnaaz blushed further, nuzzling her face into his embrace, feeling the warmth radiating from him. “Offoo…” she murmured, her voice soft and playful.

Sidharth chuckled, delighting in her pink cheeks, and closed his eyes, both of them finding solace in the comfort of each other’s presence. The world around them faded away as they savored this moment together, a gentle silence enveloping them.

After a few minutes, Sidharth broke the stillness, mumbling gently, “Jaan…” The way he spoke her name sent a flutter through her heart, and she softly replied, still lost in the sensation of his touch. “Hmm…”

“I wanted to talk to you about something important…” His tone shifted slightly, and Shehnaaz immediately sensed the seriousness lacing his words. Curiosity piqued, she pulled back from his embrace, her heart racing as she faced him directly. “Boliyena…”

With a tender gaze, Sidharth cupped her cheeks with his palms, leaning in closer. He placed a gentle kiss on each of her cheeks, a sweet gesture that made her heart skip a beat. “Dar asal… mujhe aaj shaam ko Hyderabad ke liye nikalna hoga…”

Shock washed over. Her heart felt heavy, and she could feel tears welling up in her eyes at the thought of him leaving.

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