Chapter 41

Sidharth gently cupped Shehnaaz’s cheeks, his palms warm against her skin. He placed a soft kiss on each cheek before speaking tenderly, “Dar asal… mujhe aaj shaam ko Hyderabad ke liye nikalna hoga…”

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in shock, her heart sinking at his words. The mere thought of him leaving, even for a short while, filled her with dread. Tears welled up in her eyes as she gazed deeply into his, “hyderabad..?”

Sidharth’s heart ached at the sight of her tears. He hated causing her pain. Pulling her close to his chest, he kissed her temple repeatedly, “Main nahi jaunga mera bachha… kahi nahi jaunga… aise rote nahi hain…”

Shehnaaz nestled her face into his chest, finding comfort in his embrace. After a moment, she looked up, gently caressing his cheek, “Nahi… main thik hoon… aap jayiye… aapko jaruri kaam hoga na…”

Sidharth’s expression hardened, his eyes reflecting his inner turmoil. His hold tightened around her possessively, “Tum se jyada jaruri na kuchh hai aur na hoga… samjhi tum? Don’t you dare say that again, Shehnaaz.”

Shehnaaz winced slightly but didn’t pull away. She knew he would never harm her. Instead, she stroked his cheek, “Aap gussa mat kariye na Jana… maine toh aise hi bol diya…”

Her touch had a calming effect on him. He relaxed his grip, running his fingers through her hair. Leaning down, he brushed his lips along her jawline, eliciting a sharp intake of breath from her. His voice softened, “Mere liye… tumse jyada jaruri kuchh nahi, jaan. Main aisa kaam kaise kar sakta hoon jo tumhari aankhon mein aansu laaye… jab tum nahi chahti ke main jaun… toh main kaise jaa sakta hoon, haan mera bachha?”

Shehnaaz was caught in a moment of awe. She couldn’t decide what was more beautiful—Sidharth’s tender words or the depth of emotion shining in his eyes. Her heart swelled with love as her palms slid from his cheeks to his jaw, then slowly around his neck. Pulling him closer, she whispered softly, her voice filled with love and longing, “Jab jab aap ek pal ke liye bhi mujhse dur honge… tab tab in ansun ko toh behna hi hoga…” The possessiveness in her tone, combined with the gentle authority in her touch, made Sidharth’s heart melt completely.

Her fingers softly toyed with his earlobe as she smiled, a warm and playful expression lighting up her face. “Sach maniye Sidharth, main chahti hoon ke aap jayein aur jaldi se mere paas vapas aayein. Aap ki zindagi ki har udan mujhe khushi degi, kyunki aapki zindagi ab aapki nahi… meri hai,” she said with conviction. Her voice was soft yet firm, each word wrapping around him like a warm embrace. “Aap jayiye… aur apna kaam khatam karke jaldi se mere paas vapas aayiye… warna main…” she trailed off, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Sidharth, completely disarmed by her words, leaned his forehead against hers in surrender. “Warna kya…” he asked, pulling back slightly to look into her face, waiting for her response, curiosity flickering in his gaze.

Shehnaaz’s expression turned dramatic as she grumbled with a playful pout, “Warna main exams mein fail ho jaungi…” Her words were a stark contrast to the intensity that had filled the room moments before.

Sidharth blinked in surprise, expecting something more serious. The realization hit him a moment later, and he couldn’t hold back his laughter. His deep, carefree laughter echoed through the room, filling the space with a warmth that only she could bring to his life. He buried his face into the crook of her neck, his laughter vibrating against her skin as he held her tight. Her scent, her warmth, the softness of her skin—it all reminded him of just how much happiness she brought into his life. She was his safe place, his little piece of heaven.

Shehnaaz, on the other hand, stood still, watching him laugh so openly. She had rarely seen Sidharth let go like this, and it took her breath away. His laughter made him look even more handsome, his entire face lighting up in a way that melted her heart. It was a side of him that not everyone got to see, and she felt blessed to witness this version of him.

The moment passed, but before Sidharth could say anything, Shehnaaz grabbed his face with her small hands, forcing him to look at her with a mix of confusion and amusement. Without a second thought, she pressed her lips against his, wiping away his laughter in an instant.

Startled by her move, Sidharth instinctively wrapped one arm around her waist, pulling her closer, while his other hand slid into her hair, deepening the kiss. He kissed her back with just as much passion, feeling her possessiveness in every movement. “Baby…” he groaned in satisfaction as her nails dug into his skin, sending shivers through him. Shehnaaz’s arms were tightly wound around his neck, pulling him even closer, pushing herself against him until she found herself nestled comfortably in his lap.

He knew how fiercely possessive and dominant she could get when it came to him, and honestly, he loved every bit of it. He relished the rare moments when she took control like this, giving her the freedom to lead. Normally, Sidharth wasn’t the gentle type when it came to their moments together—he was protective, dominant, always needing to claim what was his. And she was his.

But this time, having let her take the lead, Sidharth felt his own desires surge. His gentle demeanor faded, and with a passionate groan, he rested her back against the seat as he reclaimed her lips, this time with an overwhelming intensity.

“Who holds the power, baby?” he demanded, his voice a low growl.

Shehnaaz parted her lips for him willingly, allowing Sidharth to fully take over as they kissed with unbridled passion. Their lips moved against each other’s, neither wanting the moment to end. She tried to tease him, but knowing her so well, Sidharth didn’t give her the chance. Instead, he broke away just enough to nip sharply at her jawline. “I asked you something, love,” he murmured, his voice more demanding this time.

“You do… Jana, you do…” Shehnaaz finally responded, her breath shaky from the intensity. She let her nails rake down his back, letting him feel how deeply he affected her.

“Do it again… now,” he ordered before diving back into another searing kiss, his lips consuming hers as if nothing else in the world mattered.

She complied, and the sensation made Sidharth groan in pleasure. “You drive me crazy, baby… so crazy…” he whispered, his voice rough with desire.

Breathing heavily, Shehnaaz broke away from the kiss, leaving him restless and craving more. She rested her head against his neck, her body still trembling from their passionate exchange, while Sidharth tried to steady his rapid breathing.

She nestled deeper into his neck, her flushed cheeks pressed against his skin, feeling his racing heartbeat beneath her. She knew how much she affected him, just as he did her.

“Jaan…” Sidharth’s voice came out in a soft whisper against her skin, causing her to hum in response, “hmm?”

“Promise me you’ll take care of yourself…” His voice was filled with concern as he looked into her eyes, his fingers gently caressing her cheek and swollen lips.

Shehnaaz kissed each of his fingers tenderly, never breaking eye contact. His heart swelled with love as he watched her. “I promise to return your jaan in one piece by the time you come back,” she replied, her voice soft yet teasing.

Sidharth narrowed his eyes at her choice of words, his expression a mix of frustration and affection. He sighed before placing a soft kiss on her nose. “Shut up and promise me,” he insisted.

“I promise, baba…” Shehnaaz said with a sweet smile, kissing the center of his palm.

Sidharth’s smile grew as he teased her, “Someone was rather in charge today, huh?” His voice was light, filled with affection, as he watched her cheeks turn an even deeper shade of pink.

She pulled away slightly, pouting playfully, making him chuckle at her adorable reaction. Gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, Sidharth leaned in and kissed the side of her head. “I loved it, though. But I’m glad you know who holds the power,” he whispered teasingly into her ear.

Blushing furiously at his words, Shehnaaz quickly looked away, not wanting him to see how flustered she was. But Sidharth wasn’t having it. He turned her face back to his, his smile soft but teasing, “Achha suno… actually, ek project ke silsile mein achanak kaam nikal aaya. I’ll be back by Friday… okay?”

Shehnaaz nodded, though a hint of worry lingered in her eyes. She leaned in and kissed his cheek softly. “Okay… Friday ko aane ke baad ghar pe jaake aaram kariye. Immediately mujhe milne ke liye aane ki koi zarurat nahi hai… Mujhe pata hai aap kitne careless hain apni health ko lekar… aur Saturday ka pura din mera—no office,” she said, her tone half-serious, half-teasing.

Sidharth chuckled at her concern and kissed her forehead in return. “Okay, boss… aur kuchh aadesh hai mere liye?” he asked playfully.

Shehnaaz giggled, her mood lightening. “Nahi… abhi ke liye itna hi. Aapko meri help karni padegi, okay? Warna main pakka fail ho jaungi,” she said, her tone turning mock-serious as she pouted.

Just as Sidharth was about to respond, his phone rang, interrupting their moment. With a sigh, he glanced at the screen before disconnecting the call, turning his attention back to Shehnaaz with a smile.

Pecking her lips lovingly, Sidharth’s voice was thick with emotion as he said, “I wish I could take you with me… no one can stop me, but I need you to stay in your room and study.” His gaze held a mix of affection and concern, revealing just how much he cared for her well-being.

Shehnaaz, with a cute pout, nodded her head like an obedient child. The innocent expression almost made Sidharth grin, but he controlled it, wanting to maintain a serious demeanor for the moment.

“I mean it, baby… I’m going to keep an eye on you,” he stated firmly, ensuring his intentions were crystal clear. Shehnaaz twisted her lips in playful annoyance, muttering, “Sadu…” The soft anger in her tone made Sidharth chuckle, warming his heart.

“Achha, I should get going,” he said, his expression softening as he leaned closer. “ I will call you.. humesha call receive karna warna me pareshan ho
jaunga..” he finished, pressing a gentle kiss to her temple, lingering just a moment longer as if to imprint the moment in his memory.

With a nod, Shehnaaz hugged him tightly, her arms wrapping around him like a lifeline. He reciprocated, holding her close, the warmth of their embrace providing comfort to both. It was a moment of peace amidst the chaos of their lives.

Just as Shehnaaz was about to open the car door and step out, Sidharth suddenly pulled her back with a swift, unexpected tug. Caught off guard, she gasped, and before she could fully process what was happening, his lips were on hers.

The kiss was fierce and demanding, electrifying in its intensity. Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in surprise, her heart racing as Sidharth’s passion enveloped her. But as the moment deepened, she felt a sharp sting when he bit her lower lip. It wasn’t meant to hurt; it was possessive, claiming—an unspoken promise of his feelings.

A few drops of blood oozed from the bite, but Sidharth didn’t hesitate. With a flick of his tongue, he licked away the tiny droplets, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her breath hitch. Slowly, reluctantly, he pulled back, as if realizing the urgency of their surroundings but clearly unwilling to let go of her just yet.

Shehnaaz was about to step out of the car when Sidharth suddenly pulled her back, a quick, forceful movement that left her breathless. He captured her lips in his, a kiss that was both fervent and possessive.

Her eyes widened in surprise, and a soft wince escaped her as he bit her lower lip with unexpected intensity. The sharp sting surprised her, but it was the mixture of shock and thrill that overwhelmed her senses. As a few drops of blood oozed from the bite, Sidharth didn’t hesitate to lick them away, his gaze still locked onto hers as he slowly pulled back, almost reluctantly.

Shehnaaz stared at him in confusion, her mind racing. She couldn’t comprehend why he felt the need to bite her so hard, especially when it was usually her who embraced recklessness in their moments together.

With a chuckle, Sidharth raised her chin gently with his index finger, looking deep into her eyes with a possessiveness that made her heart race. “Ye tumhe har pal meri yaad dilayega… jab tak main wapas nahi aa jata,” he murmured, his voice husky and intimate.

Shehnaaz felt a rush of warmth flood her cheeks, the realization of his words hitting her like a wave. He was talking about the bite mark, a mark of his possession, a reminder of their connection. Flustered, she turned and ran out of the car, her heart pounding from the mixture of embarrassment and excitement.

Sidharth didn’t try to stop her; he understood she was too flushed to process everything right now. A part of him wished he could keep her close and  gently brush his knuckles over her rosy cheeks, savoring the way she blushed like that.

Damn, it wasn’t in him to stay away from her anymore. He didn’t care if he sounded unreasonable, if he was acting like a love-struck teenager. She had awakened something deep within him, something he couldn’t ignore.

Frustrated yet satisfied, he ran his fingers through his hair with a soft smile, taking a moment to savor the memory of her before driving off with a sigh. The truth was, he already missed her more than he could have imagined.

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Lying on her bed, Nisha closed her eyes tightly as tears continued to stream down her cheeks, mercilessly soaking her pillow. She rolled over, burying her face in the softness, not wanting to confront her own pain. The muffled sound of her sobs filled the room, a symphony of heartbreak that she couldn’t suppress any longer.

She smiled, laughed, and chatted with everyone around her, but inside, she was a whirlwind of emotions, drowning in her love for Ranbir. How could she forget or let go of someone who ruled her heart so completely?

From the very first moment they became friends, he had taken hold of her heart. Every little interaction, every teasing remark, every laugh shared—it all meant so much to her. He had a way of brightening her days, of making her giggle for no reason at all, filling her life with countless beautiful yet painful moments.

She remembered the day she confessed her feelings to him, the way his eyes had widened in surprise. He hadn’t denied her emotions, but he hadn’t reciprocated either, leaving her adrift with uncertainty about their future together. That hollow feeling gnawed at her, eating her alive.

She was painfully aware of his feelings for Shehnaaz, a truth that weighed heavily on her heart. But a flicker of hope ignited within her—what if he could accept her love? If he just gave her that one chance, she believed her love could be enough for both of them, lasting a lifetime.

The way he had fought for Shehnaaz had only deepened her love for him, amplifying her respect. She admired his dedication, the lengths he would go to for someone he cared about, even if that someone wasn’t her.

Nisha’s mind drifted back to the hospital incident when she had lashed out at Shehnaaz. The regret washed over her as she recalled how upset she had made both Shehnaaz and Ranbir. Ranbir had confronted her, questioning how she could blame Shehnaaz when she herself was not without fault. His words stung, a reminder of her own shame.

He had indirectly urged her to move on, a suggestion she couldn’t entertain. No matter how much she knew Ranbir loved Shehnaaz, her heart remained steadfast. She couldn’t stop herself from loving him, no matter how hopeless it felt.

“I will love you always,” she whispered into the pillow, her voice thick with emotion. “And I will love you forever.” As the tears continued to fall, Nisha clung to the hope that one day, her feelings might be returned. But for now, she was trapped in a cycle of love and heartache, a bittersweet existence that she had no choice but to endure.

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Shehnaaz had called Sidharth once in the evening, but he hadn’t answered. She assumed he was busy wrapping up work before his departure, so she refrained from calling again. As the hours passed and the night deepened, she found herself tossing and turning in bed, the worry gnawing at her insides. Did he have dinner? She really didn’t want to disturb him, but the longing in her heart was impossible to ignore.

Later that night, Sidharth finally managed to call her just before boarding his flight. Although he was trying to make time for her, she could hear the bustling environment around him, filled with the chatter of people and the distant sounds of an airport. The noise made her feel even more anxious. She rolled over in bed, biting her lip as she stared at the ceiling, trying to push away the growing concern.

Unable to resist the urge to check on him, she finally typed out a message, her fingers dancing over the screen: “Jana, aap ne kuch khaya?” Setting her phone aside, she let her mind wander to the ring he had gifted her. It was beautiful and delicate, yet a sense of sadness washed over her as she realized they didn’t have a single picture together to capture their moments.

She couldn’t help but think about how Sidharth wasn’t the type to pose for photos; his “khadus” persona was part of his charm. The thought made her smile softly; she often felt like pinching his cheeks or teasing him, especially when his face would flush with irritation. He looked incredibly handsome then, and the memory brought warmth to her heart.

Just as she bit her lip at the thought, her phone rang, jolting her from her daydream. Her heart raced as she eagerly picked it up, hoping to hear his voice. “Janaaaaaaaaaa… pata hai, kitna miss kar rahi thi main aapko…” she exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement.

Sidharth chuckled, the sound wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. “Mera bachha… why aren’t you asleep yet?” His teasing tone made her heart flutter.

“I was missing you…” she confessed softly, her voice almost a whisper. The sigh that escaped Sidharth told her he missed her just as much. “Bas 2-3 din jaan, I’ll be back shortly.”

“Hmmm…” she huffed, sitting up in bed. She pulled her knees to her chest, trying to suppress the anxiety swirling inside her. “Apne dinner kiya?”

As Sidharth made his way to the bathroom, he placed his phone on speaker while changing into fresh clothes. “Have ordered… what are you doing?” he asked, the sound of running water in the background.

Shehnaaz rolled her eyes, grabbing the book she had carelessly tossed aside earlier. “Studying… aap itne late kha rahe ho?”

“Just reached the hotel, baba…” he replied, and as he returned to his room, a knock at the door interrupted him. “Ye lo, aa gaya dinner…”

Shehnaaz waited patiently as Sidharth took the tray in, setting it down before making himself comfortable for dinner. He expertly plated his food and settled down to eat, but his thoughts remained on her. “Ab so jao, mera bachha… wake up early instead,” he urged, his voice gentle and warm.

Shehnaaz had set her book aside, barely glancing at it. Sadness engulfed her as she lazily rolled onto her side, her mind drifting to the memories they had yet to create. “Humari saath mein ek bhi pic nahi hai…” she mumbled softly, her heart feeling heavy with the realization.

Sidharth paused mid-bite at her soft complaint. “Baby…” he called out, his voice low and soothing, sending a shiver of warmth through her. Just hearing him say her name was enough to make her heart flutter. “Don’t stop eating,” she demanded playfully, though her tone was laced with longing.

With a light shake of his head, Sidharth returned to his food. “Though a pic is never enough for me,” he replied thoughtfully, “if you want, we can capture lots of pictures… a photoshoot, maybe, if you want, jaan.”

Excitement coursed through Shehnaaz, and her face lit up. “Hayy rabba… sachii? Kitna maza ayega!” Her eyes sparkled with joy at the idea, and Sidharth couldn’t help but chuckle at her enthusiasm.

“Alright, but it will be on my terms,” he teased as he finished his meal and set the plate aside. “Anyways, ab chup chap so jao.”

Shehnaaz made a face, but her chatter continued, a stream of playful banter that filled the air between them. She felt lighter now, her worries dissipating as she shared this moment with him. The sound of her voice seemed to soothe both of them, wrapping them in an intimate bubble of connection.

Eventually, sleep began to creep in, lulling her into a peaceful state. Sidharth felt a sense of calm wash over him as he listened to the rhythmic sound of her heartbeat, a steady lullaby that eased him into slumber.

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NEXT DAY

Lectures wrapped up, and the gang made their way to the canteen, the familiar buzz of chatter and laughter surrounding them. The air was filled with the smell of fried snacks and the sweet aroma of pastries, a welcome relief after the long classes.

Nisha made an annoyed face as she turned to Ankita, her arms crossed. “Ankita, teri notes… this is the last time, samajhi?” Her tone was playful yet firm, and she tapped her foot impatiently.

Ankita, undeterred, hugged Nisha tightly and kissed her cheek chirpily. “Aww, you are my sweetheart, yaar… thanks!” Her infectious cheer seemed to lighten the mood.

Mayank rolled his eyes at the display of affection. “That’s not fair, Ankita. You could have done it yourself, you know.”

Ranbir chimed in with a chuckle, “Like she has ever done it in her life…” His words were teasing, and he shot a mock serious glance at Ankita, who scowled in response.

Nisha, in the meantime, handed over her notes to Ranbir, who accepted them with a grin, knowing how much effort it took her to gather them.

Shehnaaz pulled out her pendrive and handed it to Anu. “Anu, isme Mishra sir ki sari important notes hain… tujhe chahiye thi na?” She felt proud to help her friend.

Anu instantly took the pendrive with gratitude, her eyes lighting up. “Thank you, Shehnaaz! By the way, aaj shaam ko tu bhi aa rahi hai na?” She was eager to know if Shehnaaz would join them.

Shehnaaz looked at her, puzzled. “Kahan…?”

Anu’s confusion mirrored her own. “Kahan matlab… ghar pe! Maa bata rahi thi ke aaj tumhare mummy-papa aane wale hain…” Her expression turned curious, as if trying to gauge Shehnaaz’s reaction.

Shehnaaz’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Par mujhe to Mumma ne kuchh bhi nahi bataya…” A wave of anxiety washed over her; she felt unprepared for an unexpected visit.

Ankita, sensing an opportunity for mischief, smirked and began to sing in a teasing tone, “Shayad teri shaadi ka khayal… dil mein aaya hai… isliye Rita aunty ne tere mummy papa ko chai pe bulaya hai…” Her playful singing filled the canteen, and it didn’t take long for others to join in.

Mayank clapped enthusiastically for her perfect selection of song, while Nisha whistled in delight, giggling at the situation. Ranbir smiled sadly yet happy for her.

Shehnaaz rolled her eyes playfully and lightly nudged Ankita. “Chup kar, duplicate Asha Bhosale!” The jab drew laughter from the group, but it was clear they were all teasing her with good intentions.

Anu chimed in, her tone shifting to serious. “No, seriously. Mujhe maa ne bataya ke tumhare parents aaj sham dinner par aa rahe hain…” She raised an eyebrow, gauging Shehnaaz’s reaction.

Caught off guard, Shehnaaz didn’t know what could be the reason behind the sudden visit. “Ok, me Mumma se baat kar lungi…” she replied, a hint of concern creeping into her voice.

Mayank, ever the instigator, teased her with a grin. “Aur humare Sidharth ji kaise hain, Shehnaaz?”

At the mention of Sidharth, Shehnaaz made an exaggerated idiotic face, as if trying to brush off the attention. “Wo bilkul thik hai… aur tumhe bahut yaad karte hain, happy?” Her attempt to sound nonchalant was undermined by the playful sparkle in her eyes.

Ankita smirked cutely at Shehnaaz’s response. “Kya, Shehnaaz? Jij ki itni yaad aa rahi hai, ke unka naam lete hi tera muh ful gaya…” Her laughter was infectious, and the others joined in, lightening the mood.

Shehnaaz twisted her lips, her expression shifting to a baby face, but she couldn’t hide the glimmer of joy at the thought of Sidharth. Ranbir, noticing her reaction, raised his eyebrows in question. She sighed and informed him about Sidharth’s visit to Hyderabad, a mixture of admiration and worry in her voice.

Just then, Nisha’s eyes lit up as an idea struck her. “Shehnaaz, mere paas ek idea hai…” she announced excitedly.

Anu looked at her with confusion, “Kaisa idea? Bhai to kal aane wale hain…”

Nisha waved her hand dismissively. “Dekho, jij kal aane wale hain… tujhe unke liye kuchh special karna chahiye!” Her enthusiasm was contagious, and soon everyone was nodding in agreement.

Shehnaaz’s eyes lit up with excitement at the suggestion. The thought of doing something special for Sidharth filled her with a warm rush.

Mayank started brainstorming. “Take him out…?” His suggestion trailed off as the group began to toss around ideas, their laughter and chatter blending into a whirlwind of plans and possibilities.

Shehnaaz scrunched her nose in mock frustration. “Typical…,” she muttered, rolling her eyes at the suggestions flying around the table.

Ankita chimed in with enthusiasm, “What about a party?”

Shehnaaz shook her head vigorously. “NO… he must be already tired from his trip.” The last thing she wanted was to overwhelm Sidharth.

Anu pondered for a moment, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “How about a gift?”

Shehnaaz shrugged, not quite convinced. “No… I want to do something special. Something meaningful.” The determination in her voice was palpable; she wanted this to be memorable.

Just then, Nisha’s eyes lit up, and she suddenly pulled Shehnaaz away from the group. Everyone watched in confusion, wondering what was going on.

Nisha pulled Shehnaaz aside and leaned in to whisper a secret in her ear.

As the words sank in, Shehnaaz’s cheeks flushed a deep pink. Nisha’s playful smirk widened, clearly pleased with her suggestion. With a lighthearted wink, she rejoined the group, leaving Shehnaaz trailing behind, her heart racing and a blush creeping across her face.

Anu looked at them curiously while Ankita made an angry face. “Not fair… hume bhi janana hai…” Curiosity killed the cat, and Ranbir cleared his throat uneasily while Mayank rolled his eyes.

Shehnaaz felt a wave of nervousness wash over her at the thought of everyone finding out about their plan. Nisha shook her head in a firm “NO,” and Shehnaaz followed suit.

Ankita sulked visibly, and Anu chided, “Pata to hum karke rahenge… just wait…” Nisha sent them a teasing wink, while Shehnaaz continued to look down and bite her lip.

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Shehnaaz thumped her bag on the sofa and dashed into the kitchen. “Mumma… kya aap aur papaji maa se milne ja rahe hai… aur aapne mujhe bataya bhi nahi…” she sulked as she jumped on the kitchen platform.

Jasbeera ji rolled her eyes at her TOOFAN-MAIL and replied, “Bachha… mene socha tujhe college ke baad bata dungi… exams ki tayyari kaisi chal rahi hai…?”

Shehnaaz made an annoyed face and picked up an apple. “Boring mumma…”

Jasbeera ji instantly slapped her hand and put the apple down. “Sana abhi nahi… warna khana nahi khayegi tu…” she chuckled, watching Shehnaaz pout with a baby face for being denied the apple.

Shehnaaz got down and started going on about the topic of exams when she heard her mother say, “Aur boring matlab…? Iska kya matlab samajhu me…?”

Shehnaaz made a baby face. “Mumma mujhe bhook lagi hai…”

Jasbeera ji rolled her eyes and sighed. “Haan toh lunch bas tayyar hai… jake fresh hoja… me tumhari plate laga deti hun…” advised Jasbeera ji as she continued with her work.

Shehnaaz sighed, making a baby face, and went upstairs.

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