Chapter 50

Sidharth let out a soft chuckle at Shehnaaz’s overly dramatic wince. Her expression was just too adorable to ignore. Smiling mischievously, he leaned down and gently kissed the same spot, trying to ease her discomfort. Then, without a word, he settled back into the comfort of her embrace, resting peacefully against the warmth of her soft chest.

“I never knew… Sidney would be the destination,” he whispered, more to himself than her, his voice thick with emotion.

Shehnaaz tilted her head slightly, not quite understanding the deeper meaning behind his words. But she didn’t ask. Instead, with a heart full of love, she softly caressed his cheek with her gentle fingers—an unspoken request in her touch, silently begging him to kiss her like he always did. That kiss that melted her heart every single time.

Sidharth was completely lost in the depth of her eyes. Those eyes… they were filled with longing, innocence, and something that tugged at his soul. He moved closer, slowly, his gaze shifting to her lips—those tempting, trembling lips that seemed to be waiting for him…

And then, out of nowhere, they heard a sudden knock on the door.

Sidharth groaned in frustration, his forehead dropping for a second against hers before he quickly pecked her lips—just a tease—then got up with an annoyed expression. His face clearly said how unhappy he was with the interruption, while Shehnaaz couldn’t stop her giggles, biting her lip to suppress the laughter.

“Yes, Anu… why didn’t you sleep yet..?” Sidharth asked, swinging open the door only to see his mischievous little sister standing there with that all-too-familiar grin.

Anu didn’t bother answering the question. Instead, she walked right into the room like she owned the place. “Bro… I hope you remember you’re not here for honeymoon,” she teased with a laugh, watching her elder brother roll his eyes dramatically. Meanwhile, Shehnaaz’s cheeks had turned bright red, completely embarrassed by the comment.

Anu wasn’t done. She grinned wider and added with a playful tone, “Anyways, I’m here to whisk your girl away. We girls are crashing together tonight.”

Sidharth’s eyes widened. He turned sharply to look at Anu like she’d just said the most absurd thing on Earth. “Absolutely not,” he said firmly, his voice loud and irritated.

Shehnaaz bit her lip hard, glancing away from Anu’s naughty eyes. Her face was flushed with embarrassment, and Sidharth looked like he was on the edge of scolding his sister for even suggesting such a thing.

“What I mean is…” he tried to cover up, now rubbing his forehead, “you girls won’t sleep on time, and then in the morning, you’ll all sulk and whine. So go and sleep instantly.”

Shehnaaz wished the ground would just open up and swallow her whole. She couldn’t even look up from the sheer awkwardness of the moment, while Anu stood there with that cheeky grin of hers.

“Chill bhai… I’m not taking your girl. I was just teasing you,” Anu said sweetly. “I came to check in your mood because you were angry when you left the dinner table.”

Sidharth sighed in defeat. He realized that his little sister wasn’t scared of him anymore—not like before. “I’m okay, baba…” he said, sounding more like a sulking big brother than an angry one.

Anu smiled brightly and gave a warm hug to Shehnaaz, who was still hiding her face in her hands, blushing furiously.

“I had actually come to tell you to order your choco brownie, which you missed… but it seems like you already had too much sweets,” Anu winked and bolted out the door before Sidharth could catch her.

The moment the door shut, Shehnaaz looked up with a mock glare, cheeks still burning. “Sab aap ki wajah se…” she said cutely.

Sidharth laughed and walked toward her, but before she could finish her sentence, she let out a surprised squeal as Sidharth scooped her into his arms and pulled her into a deep, sudden kiss—one that silenced all her embarrassment, making her forget everything else in the world.

The next morning began with excitement as their guide announced, “First we are going for a Sidney secret flight…”

Just as he was about to explain more, Ankita asked curiously, “Sydney secrets..?”

The guide gave an exaggerated sigh, as if he was used to this question. “Yes, Sydney secrets. It’s an air ride! This ride takes you over Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches. We fly over iconic spots like Manly, Curl Curl, Avalon, and Palm Beach. And it ends with a loop over Sydney Harbour, giving you an amazing view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.”

Everyone listened in awe as the guide went on sharing details. Within a few minutes, they arrived at the helipad. The excitement was contagious as they boarded the helicopters.

As the ride began, the thrill kicked in. The sky was just waking up, and the cool morning breeze kissed their faces. The view from up there was surreal. The deep blue ocean stretched out endlessly, with the golden sun slowly peeking through the horizon. The beaches looked like pieces of art carved along the coastline.

When they approached the Harbour Bridge, everyone went quiet. Their eyes were glued to the stunning scene below. The clean water reflected the majestic bridge and the elegant curves of the Opera House, lit up in the soft glow of morning light.

“This is beautiful… so beautiful…” Shehnaaz whispered, completely lost in the breathtaking view.

Sidharth looked at her, his heart swelling with love. He gently hugged her from the side. “I had thought the same… but now I’ve realized how wrong I was…”

Shehnaaz turned to him, eyebrows raised, catching the hidden meaning behind his words. “Sidharth aap bhi na… Sidharth, you have an image to maintain… aise pyari pyari meethi meethi baatein aapko suit nahi karti…”

“Achha..?” he chuckled, lowering his face toward her shoulder, gently rubbing his nose against her playfully.

Shehnaaz’s eyes sparkled. “Sidharth… aap yahan kitni baar aaye ho..?”

“Umm…” Sidharth tried to count but gave up, chuckling, “I don’t remember the exact number…”

Shehnaaz’s eyes widened in surprise. “Toh fir aapko yahan ki har cheez pata hogi na…?”

Smiling at her innocent curiosity, Sidharth kissed her cheek softly. “Haan pata hai… mera bachha… and I also have a surprise for you…” he whispered as they stepped out of the helicopter.

“Ayyoo sachii!” Shehnaaz almost screamed in excitement, causing heads to turn.

Mayank chuckled at her energy, “Shehnaaz I can understand… hum sab ko maza aa raha hai… par tu aise chillayegi toh log tujhe pagal samajhkar mental hospital bhej denge…”

Sidharth burst into laughter, watching Shehnaaz’s jaw drop in shock as she glared at Mayank.

“Ha ha… joke of the day…” she mumbled, crossing her arms with a pout and shifting herself closer into Sidharth’s embrace.

He gently wrapped an arm around her shoulder and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. She relaxed instantly.

They had their breakfast near the Opera House and spent the entire day exploring the stunning surroundings. The beauty of the construction was impossible to ignore—it felt like walking through a dream.

When their limo sped across the Harbour Bridge, everyone felt like they were flying. It was magical, thrilling, and unforgettable.

As the day passed, laughter echoed among the group. Being college students, they never ran out of silly topics or endless jokes. Shopping sprees, playful arguments—it was all part of the fun.

Sidharth, however, was quieter than the rest. It wasn’t that he wasn’t enjoying. He just didn’t speak much unless necessary. Yet even in his silence, his presence was magnetic. Everyone noticed him.

As the day turned to evening, and dinner was done, Sidharth was ready to call it a night. But Shehnaaz had other plans.

“Please na baba… thodi der ke liye…” she pleaded, hugging his arm, her voice soft and sugary.

Sidharth brushed a loose strand behind her ear with his fingers and whispered only for her ears, “Mera bachha… kal poora din beaches pe hi bitana hai na… aren’t you tired..?”

She shook her head like an irritated child. He laughed, knowing full well this plan was a setup by her whole gang. And she had been sent as the “sardarni” to convince him.

“Babu…” he tried again, but she gave him the cutest puppy face.

“Offo please na jana…”

Just then, a loud cheer came from the background—“Ooohhhh!”

Shehnaaz gasped and hid her face in his chest, realizing her mistake. They weren’t alone.

Sidharth sighed, amused. She knew exactly how to win with him. Her stubborn yet sweet way of asking, the way she claimed her space in his life, made his heart melt every time.

Of course, he agreed.

Her joyful squeal said it all as she danced in his arms, and soon, they were on their way to **Manly Beach**.

And it was like stepping into paradise.

Everyone ran toward the water like excited kids, shoes forgotten behind. Sidharth walked slower, a soft smile on his face as he watched them. His heart felt light.

He had known they’d enjoy the place, but he hadn’t expected this level of joy. Especially not from Shehnaaz.

Her wide, carefree smile was everything to him.

Just then, he felt a tug on his hand.

He turned, already knowing who it was.

There she stood—his Mishty. No matter where she was, she never forgot him. Not even if God himself stood in front of her.

“Sidharth aap yahan kya kar rahe ho… jaldi chaliye na…” she giggled, pressing her cheek against his chest and looking up into his eyes.

He looked down, smiling tenderly, and wrapped his arms around her shoulders. “Haan Mishty… main bas kuchh soch raha tha… chalo…”

But before they could move, she stopped. Her eyes locked with his.

He frowned slightly. “Kya hua jaan..?”

She didn’t say anything at first. Just stared at him deeply, and then reached for his hands, bringing them close to her lips.

“Sidharth… ye sirf ek beach hai… agar mere samne duniya ki sabse kimti cheez bhi rakhi jaye… toh bhi meri aankhen sirf aapko hi dhoondengi… hamesha…”

And in that one moment, under the vast sky and the crashing waves, it was no longer just a beach—it was a promise. A love that felt deeper than the ocean and brighter than the stars.

Sidharth wasn’t sure how to react… how did she always manage to know what he was thinking? She was unbelievable. She never failed to amaze him with her pure, selfless love. It was beyond beautiful, beyond special—love that knew no limits.

He smiled wholeheartedly and pressed a soft kiss on her forehead.

“I know, mera bachha,” he whispered, completely hypnotized by the warmth of her love. That was all he could manage to say.

He hugged her tighter, reluctant to let go, but still said, “Ab chale… before Anu comes and drags you away.”

Shehnaaz grinned and nodded, and together they walked toward the water.

It was late at night, and the beach was nearly deserted. The air was still a little humid, but the chilled water created the perfect contrast. It felt like a slice of serenity in the chaos of life.

And then, they both lost it.

They went wild in the water—splashing each other, shoving one another into the waves that rolled across the shore. They jumped and rolled like children, drenched in laughter, careless and carefree.

Shehnaaz couldn’t stop giggling when everyone ganged up to splash water at her. Sidharth, meanwhile, stood a little apart, simply watching her with a chuckle tugging at his lips. Damn… he could watch her laugh like that forever. Her laughter—it was music to his silent life.

“Oyye Anu, sun!” Ankita nudged Anu, who was currently busy playing with Ranbir. He stood back with a quiet smile, letting her enjoy herself.

Anu turned to her, and Ankita leaned in close to whisper in her ear, trying to make sure Shehnaaz didn’t hear.

“Yaar ye Sid jiju kitne boring hai… robot jaise khade hai udhar…”

Almost instantly, Anu slapped her lightly on the head, making Ankita wince.

“Kamini! Tere jiju rishte mein mere bhai lagte hain… aur unka nickname hai *Shehenshah*. Tujhe lagta hai woh bacchon jaise pani mein masti karenge?”

Ankita giggled at her exaggerated response and replied mischievously, “Toh ab dekh… ye Ankita kya cheez hai!”

Before Anu could stop her, Ankita was already up to something. She ran up to Nisha and whispered something in her ear, causing Shehnaaz to frown curiously, trying to decipher their mischief.

Nisha suddenly splashed water right onto Ankita’s face.

Ankita gasped, pretending to be shocked. “Nish ki bacchi… ruk ja… aaj tu nahi bachegi!”

Nisha burst into laughter and bolted, running to hide—behind Sidharth. Smart move. She knew Ankita wouldn’t dare touch him.

Sidharth was caught off guard. He raised an eyebrow as Nisha giggled behind him.

Ankita stopped in front of him, clearing her throat awkwardly. She opened her mouth to say something but then… nothing came out.

Sidharth casually moved aside to give her space, but Nisha moved right along with him, still hiding. He rolled his eyes and shifted again, but Nisha stuck to him like glue.

Grumbling, Ankita tried to gather courage and said nervously, “Jiju… mmm… mujhe aapse ddd… dar nahi lagta.”

That earned a burst of laughter from Shehnaaz, Anu, Mayank, and Ranbir. Sidharth blinked, confused.

“Whattt?”

His deep voice only made Ankita jump a little.

“I mean… woh… aapke dolle sholle…” She trailed off, realizing too late what nonsense she was speaking. Her not-so-loyal friends were laughing their lungs out.

Sidharth rolled his eyes, unimpressed, while Nisha smirked in victory from behind him.

He looked at Shehnaaz helplessly. “Help me…”

He looked so adorably trapped in the moment that Shehnaaz wanted to pull his cheeks. But she held back and chuckled instead, about to go help him, when Anu held her back and teased, “Kya bhai… bhabhi ke bina kuch bhi nahi kar sakte aap? Ab sali saheba hi hai aapki.”

Sidharth glared at Anu and made a face at Shehnaaz.

Mayank stepped in, trying to end the chaos. “Ankita, stop irritating jij.”

Ankita gave him an offended expression. “Huh? And exactly when did I irritate jij? It’s Nisha! Not me!”

Nisha gasped. “What? Me? It’s you, Ankita! Mujh par mat daal!”

Seizing the moment, Ankita splashed water on Nisha—and it splashed on Sidharth too.

Everyone froze.

And then chaos.

Ankita and Mayank pounced on Nisha. Sidharth sighed and tried shaking the water off, but his shirt was soaked. He exhaled and peeled it off.

Shehnaaz, in the middle of laughing, suddenly stopped. Her eyes widened as she gaped at Sidharth. His chiseled body, glistening under the moonlight, every muscle perfectly sculpted… her breath hitched.

Sidharth caught her staring and smirked. He took full advantage and splashed water right at her.

Shehnaaz stood rooted, her mouth hanging open in mock shock. She looked down at her now fully soaked clothes.

“Hayy rabbaaa…” she groaned, pouting adorably.

Before she could retaliate, Sidharth was already running away, chuckling like a boy. And she, of course, ran behind him.

Anu stared at the scene in disbelief. Her heart swelled. Her brother—her silent, always-serious, always-responsible brother—was playing, laughing, and running like a child.

She remembered how he had taken up the role of their father when they lost him. He handled everything—their mother, their home, the business, their lives. He was never the one to party, to laugh freely, to goof around like this.

Tears gathered in her eyes as she watched him now. She pulled out her phone and recorded a short clip. Their mother would be so happy seeing Sidharth bhai like this… finally living, not just surviving.

Shehnaaz giggled as she ran, her eyes fixed on his glowing face. Her heart fluttered.

Sidharth, knowing she would catch him soon, suddenly stopped.

Shehnaaz, not ready for it, crashed into him and they both fell into the water.

For a moment, they just stared at each other—and then burst out laughing again.

It was like they had become kids again. Sidharth rested his head on the wet sand while Shehnaaz rested hers on his strong arm, her fingers searching for his.

Their hands found each other. Fingers entwined.

He stared at the sky, the stars above shimmering gently, while she stared at him—at his peaceful, glowing face.

“Bachha bana diya mujhe bhi apne saath,” he murmured, his fingers softly tightening around hers.

Shehnaaz giggled and rested her face on her palm, elbows dug in the sand. “Haan toh… jaise aap mujhe mature banna sikhate ho, main aapko bachha banna nahi sikha sakti?”

Sidharth let out a soft chuckle and copied her pose. Their eyes locked.

“Don’t get used to it,” he said, ego intact.

Giggling again, she leaned against his shoulder and whispered, “Mere jaana, meri marzi… main kuch bhi karu.”

He hummed lowly, accepting defeat. “Ab chale? I want to sleep in your arms.”

Her eyes widened, lips parting in surprise. She blinked, looking adorably startled.

And then, groaning softly at how much power she had over him, Sidharth leaned in and crashed his lips onto hers—kissing her deeply, selfishly, mercilessly.

The next few days passed like a dream—not just for Shehnaaz and Sidharth, but for everyone in the group.

They explored every corner they could, soaking in the joy of each moment like it was a blessing. Sidharth had planned the entire trip so perfectly that it felt like the universe was in sync with them. There wasn’t a single hiccup.

From their crazy and carefree visits to Bondi Beach, which quickly became their favorite spot—so much so that they returned to it more than once…

To the luxurious boat ride under the glowing arches of the Harbour Bridge, dining on exotic meals as laughter echoed around…

To wandering through the lively city streets, and even their early morning visit to Avalon Beach—a plan that had everyone raising their eyebrows.

Shehnaaz was the grumpiest of all when Sidharth had woken her up at 5 in the morning. She had even refused to open her eyes properly, mumbling that her brain and eyes weren’t designed to function that early. Sidharth had pampered her endlessly—he brushed her teeth for her, picked out clothes, and did everything he could to make her comfortable while she complained and sulked like a sleepy child.

But the moment they reached Avalon Beach, every complaint melted away. As they stood rooted, taking in the breathtaking view—the sun slowly peeking out from behind a calm layer of water, painting the sky with its gentle hues—everything made sense.

The world was quiet. Their hearts felt full. The soft sound of waves, the golden sky, the peaceful breeze… it was like nature itself was wrapping them in calm.

Mayank and Ankita sat together on a random stone, leaning into each other, enjoying the silence that needed no words. Nisha and Anu slowly walked into the shallow waters, their thoughts tangled in the beauty around them, reflecting on life.

On the sand, Shehnaaz sat with Sidharth lying beside her, his head resting comfortably on her lap. His eyes were locked on her face, studying every little expression.

Sidharth smiled softly, amused by her still-sleepy pout.

“Abhi bhi gussa hai mera bachha?” he asked in a teasing tone.

She shook her head lazily in a no, her messy bun opening in the process. She rolled her eyes, trying to gather her hair again, but before she could, Sidharth gently caught her hands and pulled them down to his chest, kissing them softly.

Shehnaaz ran her fingers through his hair, her touch tender and full of love.

“Aise kya dekh rahe ho?” she asked, her voice low and affectionate.

Sidharth didn’t reply—he just shook his head gently and kept his gaze fixed on her. They didn’t need words. Their silence spoke louder, filled with everything their hearts wanted to say.

Time blurred. They didn’t know how long they stayed like that, just soaking in each other’s presence. It was their moment. Untouched. Sacred.

Shehnaaz slowly leaned down and kissed his forehead, her lips lingering there for a while. Sidharth closed his eyes, his arms sneaking around her waist, refusing to let her move away.

He wanted her there. Just like that.

“Shehnaaz…” he whispered, as if savoring her name on his tongue.

“Haan jaan…” she murmured, lost in him. He rarely called her by name, and now that he did, it sounded like music.

He took her fingers again, pressing his lips to them, his eyes never leaving hers. She saw it in his face—the peace, the happiness, the silent wish that this moment never ended.

“I want this moment to never ever end,” he said softly, holding her even closer.

Shehnaaz could hear the ache in his voice, the same ache that echoed inside her. “Bas thoda aur waqt… fir main aapse kabhi bhi door nahi jaungi. Wada,” she replied, brushing his hair back gently.

Sidharth rolled in her lap, resting his face against her tummy. There was something incredibly comforting about that simple act. It made him feel safe, like a child cared for after a long day. With her, he didn’t have to be the protector. He could just be himself.

He always took care of others, but with her, he felt like someone would finally take care of him.

In his happiest moments, he wanted her arms around him, sharing his joy.

In his darkest hours, he wanted to hide in her warmth and feel her soothe every wound.

He wanted to fall asleep every night wrapped in her embrace, and if the world got too heavy, he wanted to disappear into her arms.

It may have sounded silly—this tall, strong man seeking shelter in the love of a small woman—but only their hearts could understand what it truly meant.

Shehnaaz could feel his thoughts drifting. She cupped his cheek, her voice a gentle whisper.

“Hamesha khayal rakhungi main aapka.”

How was it possible for a heart to melt again and again? How could someone make your soul tremble like this? How could love feel this deep, this warm, this real?

Sidharth gently pulled her face down and kissed her. It wasn’t hurried. It wasn’t intense.

It was a kiss full of meaning.

“I love you,” he said against her lips.

Then he kissed her again—soft, slow, filled with a tenderness that only true love knew. Their lips moved in rhythm, not just as lovers, but as soulmates, cherishing the moment like it was the most precious thing in the world.

And maybe it was.

Time had flown by faster than either of them realized. What had started as a getaway felt like a beautiful dream, and before they knew it, their trip was already nearing its end. Throughout the journey, Sidharth had made sure they didn’t miss a single spot worth visiting—be it a scenic point, a cozy café tucked away in a corner, or a hidden gem known only to locals.

Shopping, however, had never been his thing. So, without a second thought, he’d handed over that responsibility to Shehnaaz. “You know both families better than I do,” he had said casually, trusting her choices completely. And Shehnaaz had taken the task very seriously, handpicking thoughtful gifts for each loved one.

Their return flight to Mumbai was scheduled for the next morning, and by the time they got back to the hotel that evening, it was already past 8:30.

Sidharth noticed the fatigue on Shehnaaz’s face and softly suggested, “Take some rest for a while.”

She blinked in confusion. “Itni jaldi kyun? It’s just 8:30…” But she didn’t question it too much. Her body *was* aching from the day’s explorations.

Without further protest, she crawled onto the bed, yawning, her limbs heavy. Then, almost like a little child seeking comfort, she lifted both arms towards him, wordlessly asking him to lie down beside her.

Chuckling warmly at her innocent gesture, Sidharth joined her, wrapping his arms around her. As soon as she felt his warmth, she clung to his arm tightly, a peaceful smile spreading across her lips as sleep pulled her in almost instantly.

She didn’t know how long she’d been asleep when she felt two strong arms gently lifting her. Her body instinctively leaned closer, the familiarity of the touch lulling her into a semi-conscious comfort. But then, her curiosity nudged her eyes open.

She looked up with droopy lids and saw Sidharth walking with her in his arms, saying nothing, his gaze forward, his expression unreadable. He simply smiled down at her, refusing to offer any explanation.

Shehnaaz didn’t press further. She knew there was no use asking when he had *that* look on his face—playful yet firm. She knew something was up.

But her sleep finally broke completely when she was placed inside a car and the seat belt was carefully strapped around her. She watched Sidharth walk around to take the driver’s seat, her brows furrowed.

“Hum kahin ja rahe hain?” she asked, voice soft with sleep and curiosity.

Sidharth chuckled at her half-awake, half-alert expression. Leaning in, he kissed her forehead gently and replied with a smirk, “Yes sweetheart… the surprise I told you about that day… it’s waiting for you.”

Her eyes lit up instantly, the drowsiness vanishing as excitement took over. She straightened in her seat, lips curling into a grin. But then, with a playful roll of her eyes, she muttered, “Aap batayenge toh nahi hum kaha ja rahe hain… so poochhne se fayda nahi hai… hai na?”

Sidharth let out a low laugh. “Now you’re getting smart…” he teased.

She slapped his arm lightly, making him grin wider. She knew better than to expect answers from him right now. So with a dramatic sigh, she huffed and leaned sideways to rest her head on his shoulder.

The rest of the ride was calm, silent yet fulfilling. The peace between them didn’t need any words. Sometimes, presence alone was enough.

Eventually, the car came to a halt at what looked like a deserted, windy spot. Shehnaaz looked around, puzzled. There was nothing in sight—just an open space with roaring winds and faint rustling sounds.

She narrowed her eyes at him. “Aap kahin mera murder karne ka plan toh nahi bana rahe?” she asked, mock suspicion in her voice.

Sidharth couldn’t help but shake his head with a chuckle, and then slowly lifted his fingers to gently brush them over her face. As his fingertips caressed her eyelids, her lashes fluttered closed. And then, suddenly, she felt fabric being tied over her eyes.

“Sidharth…?” she whispered, half-confused, half-excited.

“Quiet,” he ordered softly, a teasing sternness in his voice.

Before she could object, she felt herself being picked up again. Her heart fluttered with anticipation as the cold air brushed against her skin, and she instinctively buried her face in his chest, seeking warmth.

The loud *thud-thud-thud* of spinning blades gave her a hint. She was pretty sure it was a helicopter. Her curiosity was now practically bouncing inside her chest.

“Sidharth…” she began.

“Vapas India toh nahi chhod rahe mujhe aap?” she joked, trying to control her rising excitement.

Sidharth smirked and pulled her closer, sensing the slight tremor in her body from the chill. “That we’re anyway doing tomorrow, love. So shut up… because we’ve almost reached.”

Twenty minutes later, she felt the helicopter slowly descend and eventually land with a gentle jolt. She felt Sidharth carry her out again, and the moment her feet touched solid ground, his fingers gently untied the cloth from her eyes.

But before she could open them, he leaned in and softly kissed both her eyelids.

When her eyes finally fluttered open, she didn’t look around first.

She looked at him.

She stared at Sidharth, who looked impossibly handsome in a white T-shirt and washed blue shorts, his face glowing under the soft moonlight. And in that moment, she forgot to even glance at where they were. Because he was all she saw. All she needed.

Sidharth chuckled seeing her still dazed by him, and gently turned her around to face the opposite direction.

And that’s when it hit her.

Shehnaaz froze.

Her breath caught in her throat.

She stared wide-eyed at the paradise laid out in front of her. “Oh my God…” she whispered breathlessly.

The stars above seemed closer. The sky was painted in deep violet, dotted with silver. Below them stretched a private island wrapped in quiet, glowing lights, an infinity pool mirroring the sky, and a soft melody playing somewhere in the distance. Palm trees swayed with the breeze, and the entire place looked like a scene out of a dream.

It was, quite simply—*heaven*.

She stood motionless, overwhelmed. How…? Where…? When did he…?

But before she could speak, she felt his arms snake around her waist from behind, pulling her gently into a warm cocoon. His lips brushed lazily against her ear.

“Say something…”

She blinked rapidly, still taking it all in. “It’s… heaven…” she finally whispered.

Her words made Sidharth smile with pride. Holding her even closer, he leaned in and murmured softly into her hair, “You know… why I bought this place?”

Shehnaaz gasped and turned around to face him, her eyes wide. “*OMG… did you seriously buy this!?”*

Sidharth chuckled at her incredulous tone, kissing her nose affectionately. “Haan mera bachha…”

She blinked again, processing his words. “But… why did you buy it? I mean, this must be insanely expensive… this is *heaven*…”

He loved the way she called it that. Heaven.

And then, in a move that took her breath away, he pulled her impossibly closer and kissed her gently, lingering just enough to make her heart skip. Then, resting his forehead on hers, he whispered with a boyish smile, “For our honeymoon…”

Author’s Note