Where every word breathes Love….

Chapter 27

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Sidharth had been lost in his own thoughts when his gaze suddenly landed on Shehnaaz. Time seemed to freeze for him, and his world narrowed down to just her. His breath caught in his throat, and for a moment, he couldn’t move, couldn’t even think. His eyes widened in awe, completely captivated by her beauty.

Shehnaaz stood there, draped in a maroon saree that seemed to have been made just for her. The deep, rich hue of the fabric perfectly complemented her glowing complexion, and the way it flowed around her figure made her look like a vision from another world. The saree clung to her in all the right places, enhancing her grace and poise in a way that was effortless yet breathtaking. Every pleat, every fold of the fabric seemed to have a life of its own, as if it was designed to move with her and only her.

The delicate jewelry she wore sparkled with a brilliance that matched her radiance, casting a soft glow around her. The way the diamonds caught the light with her slightest movement was mesmerizing. His mangalsutra around her neck and the vermillion placed in her hairline to show the world who did she belong to.

But nothing could outshine her presence. Shehnaaz didn’t just look beautiful—she looked ethereal, as if she had stepped out of a dream.

Sidharth’s heart began to race, thumping wildly in his chest, as if it couldn’t keep up with the surge of emotions flooding through him. He felt something stir deep within him—something intense, something undeniable. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. He didn’t even notice the curious glances from those around him, the whispers or the looks of amusement on their faces as they saw him completely lose himself in Shehnaaz’s beauty. In that moment, it was just him and her, and nothing else seemed to matter.

Shehnaaz, unaware of the effect she was having on Sidharth or anyone else, moved with the same unassuming grace she always did. She began walking towards the stairs, her fingers gently fumbling through her bag as if searching for something. Her attention was focused entirely on her task, oblivious to the fact that Sidharth’s eyes were on her, or that the he seemed to hold his breath in admiration.

Shehnaaz moved absentmindedly, her fingers still digging through her bag, searching for something she couldn’t quite find. Her thoughts were elsewhere, lost in the task, completely oblivious to her surroundings. She was so focused on her search that she didn’t notice how dangerously close she was to the edge of the staircase.

Each step she took brought her nearer to the top of the stairs, her movements so casual, so unaware of the potential danger.

But Sidharth saw it.

His heart stopped in his chest, frozen with fear. Panic gripped him tightly, his breath caught in his throat as dread surged through him.

The realization hit him like a bolt of lightning: she was about to fall.

“Naaz!” His voice tore through the air, filled with raw urgency, louder and more desperate than he ever imagined it could be.

In that instant, everything else disappeared—every thought, every noise around him. All that mattered was her. He moved without thinking, his body reacting purely out of instinct, faster than he thought possible. His legs carried him toward her in a sprint, his mind in overdrive, his heart pounding furiously with every step. There was no time to waste, no room for hesitation.

Just as her foot was about slip on the edge of the top stair, his arm shot out, wrapping firmly around her waist, the soft fabric of her saree brushing against his skin. The world seemed to blur around them for a second as he yanked her back to safety, pulling her close, holding her as if he would never let go. His heart was beating so fast, it felt like it might burst from his chest, the terror of what could have happened still coursing through his veins.

For a moment, everything was still.

Shehnaaz gasped, startled by the sudden movement. Her hands instinctively reached out, grabbing onto his arms for support, her fingers curling into his sleeves as if they were her lifeline. The shock of the moment rendered her speechless, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. She blinked up at him, her wide eyes reflecting the fear and surprise she felt inside.

Their faces were only inches apart now, the air between them charged with intensity. Shehnaaz’s breath came in shallow, quick bursts, her mind still processing what had just happened. She felt the warmth of his hand against her bare waist, the strength of his grip steadying her, keeping her grounded. The closeness between them was overwhelming, a rush of emotions swirling in the air that neither of them could deny.

For a long moment, neither of them moved. Their eyes locked in a silent exchange, the world around them fading into nothingness. Sidharth’s dark eyes were filled with a swirl of emotions—fear, anger, concern, and something deeper that made Shehnaaz’s heart flutter wildly. His chest heaved with the intensity of the moment, his gaze piercing hers, as though he was searching for something—an answer, an explanation, anything to calm the storm inside him.
 
Shehnaaz’s lips parted slightly, her breath uneven. She could feel the tremor in his grip, the way his fingers dug into her skin, not in pain, but in desperation. His body was tense, his jaw clenched tightly, but his eyes betrayed him—those deep, expressive eyes she had spent so much time avoiding. They were full of worry, overflowing with an ocean of emotions that neither of them could voice.
 
“What the hell were you thinking?” he finally growled, his voice hoarse, his grip tightening around her waist unconsciously. “Do you have any idea how careless you were? You could’ve—” His words choked off, as if even saying it aloud was too much to bear.
 
Shehnaaz stared at him, her breath catching in her throat. The way he held her… it wasn’t just protective; it was possessive, like he couldn’t bear to let her go. And the way he looked at her… it was as though the very sight of her standing on that edge had shaken him to his core.
 
“I…,” she stammered, her voice barely a whisper, her gaze still locked on his. She could feel his body trembling slightly, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths.
 
“I what..?” he shot back, his voice dropping to a dangerously low tone, filled with frustration and something she couldn’t quite place. “You didn’t see the stairs? tumhara dhyan kaha tha? agar tumhe kuch ho jata toh..?”
 
The edge in his voice sent shivers down her spine, but beneath the anger, there was an undeniable fear. Fear for her. He was worried. He cared.
 
“I’m sorry,” she whispered, her own heart pounding in response to his intensity.
 
His eyes softened for a brief second, but his grip didn’t loosen. In fact, if anything, his hold on her waist tightened, as if he couldn’t bring himself to let her go, even though the danger had passed. His thumb unconsciously brushed against her skin, and the sensation sent warmth spreading through her body. The connection between them was palpable, the air thick with unspoken feelings.
 
“You have to be more careful,” he muttered, his voice softer now, though still laced with frustration. His eyes searched hers, and in that moment, everything else seemed to fall away—the rain outside, the noise of the world—it was just the two of them.
 
Shehnaaz felt her heart stutter in her chest as she stared back at him. His closeness, the raw emotion in his gaze, the way he held her like she was the most precious thing in the world—it made her feel something she hadn’t felt before. Safe. Wanted.
 
“Sidharth…” she whispered, not even sure what she wanted to say. But the moment seemed to stretch on, heavy with tension and something deeper, something neither of them was ready to confront.
 
He blinked, his grip loosening slightly but still not letting her go. His voice was rough as he spoke again, softer now, “Just… don’t do that again.”
 
And for the first time, Shehnaaz saw it—the vulnerability in him. The worry. The care. The part of Sidharth that he kept buried beneath his stern exterior, but which was now laid bare before her.
 
“I won’t,” she promised, her voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling inside her. She wasn’t sure if she meant it just about being careful or something more, something deeper between them.
 
With one last glance into her eyes, Sidharth finally, reluctantly, released his hold on her. But the warmth of his touch lingered, and as he stepped back, the distance between them felt both necessary and unbearably hard.
 
Neither of them said a word, but the weight of what had just happened hung between them, heavy and undeniable.
________________
Rita ji, along with Tayiji and Anu, had hurriedly risen, their faces filled with concern for Shehnaaz. However, their worried expressions slowly softened, replaced by knowing smiles. The sight of Sidharth holding Shehnaaz so protectively, filled the air with a new, unspoken understanding.
 
The three women exchanged glances, their smiles widening as they witnessed the unguarded moment between Sidharth and Shehnaaz. There was something undeniably tender in the way Sidharth’s usually stern face softened with concern for her.
 
Tayiji let out a small chuckle, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and affection. “Lagta hai, Shehnaaz ka asar chha raha hai,” she whispered to Rita ji, who nodded, her smile deepening as she observed her son, so unlike his usual self.
 
Anu, always quick to notice the subtleties, smirked and leaned closer to Rita ji. “Maa, bhai ko dekh kar lagta hai… kuch zyada hi fikr ho rahi hai Shehnaaz ki. Aapko nahi lagta?”
 
Rita ji’s heart swelled with motherly pride as she watched her son take care of Shehnaaz with such devotion. The moment had brought a sudden wave of hope to her. Perhaps the walls Sidharth had built around himself were finally beginning to crumble, and the woman standing beside him, clinging to his arm, might just be the one to break through them.
 
“mujhe lagta hai..” Rita ji began softly, her eyes not leaving the scene, “Sidharth pasand karta hai shehnaaz ko..”
 
The three women shared a knowing glance, the silent understanding passing between them. In that brief moment, the worry over Shehnaaz’s stumble had been replaced by something else—hope for the future, for what this growing connection between Sidharth and Shehnaaz might mean.
_______________

Coming out of their shared trance, both Sidharth and Shehnaaz pulled away from each other abruptly, as if the closeness had burned them. Shehnaaz was gasping for breath, her chest heaving, trying to calm the erratic beating of her heart. Sidharth, on the other hand, stood rigid, his face still tight with a mix of fury and fear, the adrenaline of the moment refusing to leave his system.

Almost scared, she rushed down the stairs, her movements quick but panicked. Sidharth followed her, his own concern growing, but his eyes stayed glued to her, anxious that she might trip over her saree in her hurry. It was only then that Shehnaaz noticed Vihaan, his small face pale, eyes wide and teary. 

“Vihaan, baby! Kya huva? Maa is okay, baby, see?” Shehnaaz fell to her knees in front of Vihaan, her voice soft yet urgent. Her hands gently cupped his tear-streaked face, her thumbs brushing away the wetness under his eyes. She tried to reassure him, even as her own heart ached at seeing him so upset.

Vihaan didn’t say anything at first, just looked at her with wide, uncertain eyes. It was only then that Sidharth noticed how upset his son really was. The sight of Vihaan’s trembling lips and tear-filled eyes hit Sidharth hard, like a punch to the gut. Immediately, he understood the reason for Vihaan’s distress—his raised voice earlier. Vihaan had always been scared of Sidharth’s angry tone, and this time had been no different.

“Vihaan,” he murmured softly, his voice gentle now, a stark contrast to the panic and anger from earlier. “I didn’t mean to get angry, baby. I was just worried… Please, don’t be scared. Daddy’s sorry.”

Vihaan sniffled, his small arms slowly wrapping around Sidharth’s neck as he buried his face into his father’s shoulder. The tension in his tiny body slowly eased as he clung to Sidharth, seeking comfort.

From across the room, Rita ji watched the scene unfold, her eyes filled with concern for her grandson. She took a small step forward, ready to go to him, but was stopped by a soft touch on her arm. Tayi ji held her hand gently, shaking her head with a knowing smile.

“Unhe khud Vihaan ko handle karne do, Rita,” Tayi ji whispered, her voice calm yet filled with quiet wisdom. “Aur dekhna tum… in dono ke pyar ki kadi Vihaan hi hoga.”

Rita ji paused, understanding dawning in her eyes. She glanced back at the trio—Sidharth, Shehnaaz, and Vihaan. The way Sidharth cradled Vihaan, how Shehnaaz stood close, her eyes softening as she watched the father and son—it was clear that this little boy would be the bridge between them. The bond that could bring them together.

With a nod of agreement, Rita ji stepped back, choosing to let the moment unfold naturally. There was something special happening here, something that needed no interruption.

As Vihaan’s grip tightened around Sidharth’s neck, his small face hidden in the crook of his father’s shoulder, Shehnaaz watched, her heart swelling with a mixture of relief and tenderness. She slowly stood up, her knees weak from the emotional rollercoaster of the past few minutes. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she saw Vihaan calming down in Sidharth’s arms.

____________

Rita ji smiled warmly at the scene unfolding before her—such a sweet family moment. “Shehnaaz, tum aur Vihaan jaldi se breakfast kar lo beta… tum log waise bhi late ho rahe ho,” she gently reminded, her voice filled with motherly concern.

Shehnaaz, still slightly flustered from the earlier moments, turned to Rita ji, her worry evident. “Haan, maa. Main abhi Vihaan ke liye breakfast lati hoon,” she replied hastily, already starting to move toward the kitchen. But as she took a few steps, something tugged at her from within, and she stopped suddenly, her gaze flickering toward Sidharth. “Aap ne khaya?” she asked without thinking, the words escaping her mouth naturally.

Her eyes stayed on Sidharth, almost instinctively, as if drawn to him. The concern in her voice wasn’t forced, it came from deep within her. But the moment the question left her lips, her own eyes widened in panic. What had she done? She hadn’t meant to cross any boundaries. She feared his reaction, knowing how temperamental he could be, especially in front of others. Her heart skipped a beat as she anticipated his anger, her pulse quickening with fear that he might reprimand her for stepping out of line in front of the family.

Sidharth, however, was momentarily lost in her innocent gaze. There was something about the way Shehnaaz had asked him that struck him—so genuine, so effortlessly caring. His mind, already clouded with the image of her in that maroon saree, struggled to process the simple question she had asked. It felt like time stood still for a second as he found himself absorbed in her presence, his heart tugging in a way he hadn’t expected.

Just as the tension began to rise in the air, Anu quickly intervened, sensing the trouble. “Haan, Bhai ka ho gaya hai… tum dono bhi jaldi se khalo,” she chimed in, her tone light and casual, diffusing the situation with ease.

Shehnaaz let out a quiet sigh of relief, nodding quickly before hurrying off toward the kitchen, thankful for Anu’s timely intervention. Sidharth, still somewhat distracted by his own swirling emotions, simply nodded as he headed outside to get the car ready. His mind, though focused on their upcoming departure, couldn’t quite shake the lingering image of Shehnaaz’s concerned face or the warmth in her voice when she had asked about him.

In the kitchen, Shehnaaz tried to focus on getting Vihaan’s breakfast ready, but her mind kept replaying the earlier moment. Why had she asked him that? She knew better than to overstep, especially in front of others. The last thing she wanted was to cause tension, and yet, something about seeing him there, looking at her the way he did, had made her forget the invisible lines they were supposed to follow.

Sidharth had gone outside, busying himself with the car, making sure everything was ready for their departure. Inside, Shehnaaz sat with Vihaan, helping him eat his pancakes while absentmindedly picking at her own food. Her mind was elsewhere, tangled in thoughts about the morning’s events, unable to focus on eating. She nibbled on a few bites, but her appetite had disappeared.

Tayiji noticed Shehnaaz’s lack of attention to her own breakfast and shook her head softly. “Woh kha lega Shehnaaz… tumne kuch nahi khaya beta,” Tayiji remarked, referring to Vihaan, her voice filled with gentle concern.

Meanwhile, Rita ji had gotten busy with a phone call, and Anu had retreated to her room, leaving Shehnaaz and Vihaan at the table. Shehnaaz was still preoccupied when suddenly, Vihaan, with his innocent smile, took a small piece of pancake and lovingly placed it in her mouth, breaking through her cloud of worry. Shehnaaz couldn’t help but smile at his sweet gesture, her heart warming at the simple display of affection from her son.

She smiled gratefully at Tayiji, trying to brush off the concern in the room. “Abhi late ho gaya hai na, Tayiji… ate waqt kuch kha lungi,” she assured her, though her mind was still elsewhere.

As Vihaan finished his breakfast, Shehnaaz asked Varsha to take him outside to Sidharth, who was waiting by the car. She quickly gathered herself and hurried to the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of water for Vihaan and some snacks just in case he got hungry during the journey. Her motherly instincts kicked in, ensuring her son would have everything he needed for the trip.

Moments later, Shehnaaz stepped outside, her arms full with the essentials for Vihaan, her feet moving quickly toward the car where Sidharth stood. He was busy, adjusting a few things, holding Vihaan comfortably in his arms. As soon as Sidharth’s eyes landed on Shehnaaz, he felt a sudden pull, a momentary pause in his actions.

The morning sunlight bathed her in a soft, golden glow, making her look even more radiant. The brightness of the day seemed to highlight her beauty effortlessly. It was as if everything around them faded, leaving just the two of them standing there in the quiet warmth of the morning.

Shehnaaz, feeling the weight of his gaze, quickened her steps, “Yeh Vihaan ke liye… in case he gets thirsty or hungry on the way,” she said softly, avoiding his eyes, knowing too well that his stare had been intense a moment ago.
 
Sidharth nodded, his face giving nothing away. But something flickered in his eyes, a warmth that he quickly masked with his usual stern expression. “Hmm,” he muttered, still holding Vihaan securely in hid arms.
 
“maa… vihaan ko godi..” vihaan’s spread his hands for shehnaaz making her take him in her arms quickly with a grin. 
 
Just as she was about to walk to the passenger side of the car, she heard his voice again, low but with an edge of protectiveness. “… next time, don’t rush around like that. You almost tripped earlier.”
 
Her steps faltered, and she glanced back at him, her brows slightly furrowed in confusion. The tone he used wasn’t angry but more concerned, almost as if he cared. She opened her mouth to respond but found herself at a loss for words. Instead, she nodded briefly and walked over to the car, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks.
 
Tayiji, watching from the window, smiled knowingly. “Dekha Rita? Kuch toh badal raha hai in dono ke beech… Sid ke dil mein kahi na kahi shehnaaz ke liye fikr hai.”
 
Rita ji smiled softly, hopeful. “Meri bas yehi dua hai ke yeh fikr pyar mein badal jaye.”
 
Tayiji smiled “dhiraj rakh Rita.. Mata Rani sab sahi karenge..”
 
Rita ji smiled joining her hands.
______________
 

Te car roared to life after Sidharth took the driver’s seat and Shehnaaz settled into the passenger seat beside him, with Vihaan nestled comfortably in her lap. It was still early morning, and the atmosphere outside was calm and serene, the soft light of dawn casting a peaceful glow around them. The tension in the air, however, felt heavy and palpable, at least for Shehnaaz, who couldn’t stop overthinking every small action.

Vihaan, oblivious to the subtle tension between his parents, was in his own world, blabbering excitedly and squirming in Shehnaaz’s lap. He moved around restlessly, tugging at her saree, making it hard for her to keep him still.

“Vihaan, meri saree…” Shehnaaz started but then abruptly stopped. Realization hit her—what was she saying, and why was she suddenly so flustered? More importantly, Sidharth was right beside her, and her words had spilled out without thinking. She bit her lip, cursing her own awkwardness.

Sidharth stirred slightly in his seat, his hands tightening around the steering wheel. Her voice lingered in his mind, stirring something deep inside him. He didn’t look at her but felt the tension shift between them. The silence in the car felt louder than ever, as if both of them were lost in their own thoughts, unsure how to break through the awkwardness.

Vihaan, however, paid no attention to the quiet tension. He giggled and turned his attention toward his father, breaking the silence. “Daddy, which movie are we watching today?” he asked, his tiny voice filled with excitement.

Sidharth smiled at his son’s innocence and boundless energy, momentarily pulling himself out of his own thoughts. He glanced at Vihaan, his heart warming as he saw the joy in his little boy’s face. “Which one would you like?” he asked, keeping his tone light, trying to shake off the unease he had been feeling moments ago.

Vihaan’s face lit up with enthusiasm, his eyes wide with excitement as he thought about his options. “Hmm… the one with the big dinosaurs! Rawr!” He mimicked the roar of a dinosaur, flailing his arms like giant claws, which made Shehnaaz chuckle softly despite the nerves still swirling in her chest.

“Alright, the dinosaur movie it is,” Sidharth said, smiling at vihaan and sneaking a brief glance at Shehnaaz before turning his attention back to the road. Shehnaaz had calmed down a bit, her focus now entirely on Vihaan, her hands gently playing with his small fingers as she smiled at his antics.

_____________

Rajender ji and Madan ji entered the cabin, their faces etched with frustration. The tension in the room was palpable, as if the air itself was weighed down by the gravity of what remained unsaid.

“Raj, I’m not stepping into the next meeting unless Shehnaaz is back,” Madan ji growled, pacing restlessly. His frustration was clear in every step. “You know the board’s been asking for her. And honestly, we need her.”

Rajender ji slumped into his chair, massaging his temples as if trying to ease the weight of his own guilt. “I know, Madan. You think I’m not aware? But it’s been months since we’ve spoken. I’ve hurt her deeply, and I wouldn’t even know where to begin fixing it.”

Madan ji stopped mid-stride, his sharp gaze softening as he looked at his old friend. There was a mix of sympathy and impatience in his eyes. “Raj, this isn’t just about the firm anymore. It’s not just the board breathing down your neck—you’re losing your daughter.”

Rajender ji’s jaw clenched, his expression hardening. Madan’s words hit a raw nerve, one he couldn’t ignore any longer. He knew how badly things had deteriorated. He had pushed Shehnaaz away, not only from the business but from his life. The mounting pressure from the board was nothing compared to the guilt gnawing at him over the fractured bond with his daughter.

Madan ji let out a weary sigh, shaking his head. “You heard about Arjun, right? He’s left for London.”

Rajender ji’s head snapped up, his eyes widening in shock. “When?”

“yesterday,” Madan replied, his tone more resigned now. “He’s gone, Raj. And from what I’ve heard, Shehnaaz hasn’t spoken to him either.”

A deep frown creased Rajender ji’s brow.

“She’s isolated herself,” Madan continued, his voice quieter, but no less urgent. “Raj, you need to talk to her—before you lose her completely.”

Rajender ji looked at Madan ji, his face tight with emotion. “Why aren’t you upset with Shehnaaz, Madan? You almost broke our partnership when she denied marrying Arjun. But you’ve never been angry with her. Why?”
 
Madan ji shook his head, his expression softening. “She hurt Arjun, Raj, I won’t deny that. He suffered… a lot. You know how deeply he loved her. Losing her drove him to the brink, and I… I was upset, not just with her, but with the whole situation. It was out of control. But Shehnaaz? She’s my daughter too, Raj. I’ve loved her ever since I first laid eyes on her in the hospital the day she was born. Those mesmerizing eyes, those tiny hands and feet… How could I ever be angry with her?”
 
Tears welled up in Madan ji’s eyes as he continued, his voice breaking. “I hated you for pushing her away, for causing her pain. But never her. She’s still that little girl I held in my arms. She might’ve hurt Arjun, but it was never intentional.”
 
Rajender ji’s heart clenched at his friend’s words. He had always known how much Madan adored Shehnaaz, but hearing it now made the weight of his own mistakes feel even heavier.
 
Madan ji wiped at his eyes, struggling to keep his composure. “Why did this happen to our kids, Raj? They were so happy… we were all so happy. I was excited to finally welcome Shehnaaz into my home. Vasu was over the moon. And then, just like that… everything shattered like glass.”
 
Rajender nodded slowly, his throat tightening with regret. “I know… everything was perfect. Until that accident. and we lost Sana… she was never the same again.”
 
The accident had changed Shehnaaz forever, leaving scars that none of them could heal. Her sudden withdrawal from life, from the family, had been a painful reminder of all that was lost. And in the wake of her silence, Rajender had made one mistake after another, pushing her further away instead of pulling her closer.
 
Madan ji looked at Raj, his voice low but filled with urgency. “Bhabhi is right, Raj. You need to talk to her, before it’s too late. Before you lose her forever. I’ve already lost Arjun… don’t make the same mistake.”
 
Rajender’s chest tightened at Madan’s words. He couldn’t afford to wait any longer. If he didn’t act now, he might lose Shehnaaz for good. And that was something he couldn’t bear.
 
“I’ll talk to her, Madan,” Rajender said, his voice thick with emotion. “I can’t let this go on any longer. I won’t lose her.”
 
Madan ji nodded, his face lined with sadness but also with hope. “Do it, Raj. For all of us. For her.”
_____________
The journey to the mandir was serene, save for Vihaan’s constant chatter, filling the silence with his innocent excitement. The soothing scent of Shehnaaz’s perfume enveloped the car, and despite himself, Sidharth couldn’t help but be pulled into its spell.
 
His eyes kept drifting to her saree, the maroon fabric pooling near the gear shift. The delicate pallu rested close to his hand, and his fingers twitched, almost as if they longed to touch it. He found himself caught in the simplicity of the moment, accepting the undeniable fact that she looked breathtaking in the saree. It suited her, enhancing her grace in ways he hadn’t expected. Sarees made her look… exquisite.
 
As they pulled into the temple parking lot, Vihaan practically leaped out of the car, his excitement palpable as he ran toward the temple steps. Shehnaaz followed, her own grin bright and contagious. Sidharth, still caught in his thoughts, shook his head at Vihaan’s energy, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the turmoil brewing inside him. He stepped out of the car, his gaze briefly catching Shehnaaz’s before quickly looking away.
 
The day was beginning, but the emotions that lingered between them were far from over.
 
As car stopped, vihaan dashed out, running towards the mandir.. worried, Shehnaaz moved toward Vihaan, she paused, realizing Sidharth wasn’t walking behind her. She turned softly, her eyes searching for him. Feeling her gaze, Sidharth looked up, meeting her eyes briefly before saying, “Tum Vihaan ke saath andar jao, main puja ki thali leke aata hoon.”
 
Shehnaaz nodded gently, her lips curving in a small, understanding smile before turning her attention back to Vihaan, who was already racing toward the temple steps. She hurried behind him, scooping him up just in time as they reached the entrance.
 
Holding him securely, she lifted him toward the bell hanging above. Vihaan’s tiny hand reached out, grasping the bell, and the soft chime echoed through the air. Shehnaaz couldn’t help but smile as the sound filled the space, and Vihaan’s laughter blended with it, creating a moment of pure joy in the otherwise heavy atmosphere.
 
Behind her, Sidharth watched from a distance, his heart inexplicably warming at the sight.
 
Sidharth walked toward them, and before Shehnaaz could react, his arm instinctively wrapped around. Vihaan remained cradled in Shehnaaz’s arms as they stood in the line for the pooja, but the warmth of Sidharth’s sudden protective hold made her blush and weirdly happy. 
 
She tried to reason with herself. Maybe he was being protective because Vihaan was in her arms. It made sense, after all. But deep down, she couldn’t ignore the way his gesture felt more personal—like he was protecting not just Vihaan but her too. The subtle tightening of his arm, the way he stood close, made her feel cared for in a way she hadn’t experienced in a long time.
 
Sidharth, on the other hand, didn’t overthink it. His action had been sudden, but standing in the serene atmosphere of the mandir, with the soft chanting of prayers surrounding them, he felt an overwhelming need to keep them close. His family. Even if he couldn’t put it into words, he needed this moment, this connection. Also, he had noticed many appreciative eyes on shehnaaz..
 
In that brief moment, Sidharth found peace. Amidst the rush of people, the chanting, and the sound of temple bells, he had his little world right next to him.
 

They were still in line when Sidharth’s phone rang, pulling him from his thoughts. He glanced at the screen and saw it was his mother calling. “Haan maa…” he answered, his tone respectful but distracted.

Shehnaaz looked up at him, sensing the familiar voice on the other end. The way he seemed to focus on her made her heart flutter with an unfamiliar warmth.

“Sid, beta, tum log pohoch gaye?” Rita ji’s voice was filled with concern from the other side.

Sidharth scanned the bustling surroundings and replied, “Haan maa, bas thodi der pehle. Par yahan kaafi log hain… hume jaldi aana chahiye tha.”

Rita ji shook her head, the sound carrying through the phone. “Main bhi toh wahi keh rahi thi. Bichari Shehnaaz… Vihaan ko khilaya usne, par khud kuch khaya hi nahi…”

Sidharth’s heart sank at the news. “Kya…?” he said, his voice barely above a whisper, shock coursing through him.

Startled, Vihaan tightened his grip around Shehnaaz’s neck, sensing his father’s unease. Shehnaaz raised her eyes, filled with concern, and whispered, “Thoda dheere boliyena aap, please…”

Sidharth, still staring at her, nodded, feeling an instinctive protectiveness wash over him. “Tumne breakfast kyun nahi kiya?” he asked, his voice firm yet laced with genuine care.

Shehnaaz was taken aback by his sudden concern. She glanced at him, her heart racing, realizing that Rita ji must have mentioned it during the call. “Woh… hume late ho gaya tha na…” Her voice trailed off as she met his disappointed gaze, feeling a wave of guilt wash over her.

Her voice trailed off as his eyes fixed on her with disappointment. “Toh aur 10 minutes der ho jati…”

Sidharth momentarily forgot about the call, caught up in the exchange. Rita ji, on the other end, felt a surge of excitement as she listened. This wasn’t the Sidharth she knew—he was never this caring toward anyone except her and Vihaan. She chuckled softly, deciding to stay on the line a little longer. This was definitely news.

“Aise kaise…” Shehnaaz shook her head at his angry tone. “Maa ne kaha tha na, jaldi jaana hai…”

Sidharth rolled his eyes, exasperated. What was he supposed to do with this crazy girl? “Toh tum breakfast skip karogi? Aur tumne kuch kaha kyun nahi? Hum raste mein kuch collect kar lete…”

Shehnaaz pouted, feeling scolded yet again. “Aur der ho jati…”

Sidharth almost groaned in frustration, “Naaz…” The slip of her name caught him off guard. Oh, why did he call her that? The name sent a wave of restlessness through his heart.

Shehnaaz froze, stunned by his choice of words. Naaz. This was the first time he had used her name like that. The way he said it made her heart flutter. No one had ever called her that, and she loved how it sounded. But why had he called her Naaz? Was it a mistake? Did he forget her full name? Her nose scrunched up at the thought, but hearing it from him made her feel warm and fuzzy inside.

On the other end, Rita ji’s mouth dropped open in surprise. She grinned like a mischievous child, thrilled to witness this sweet moment unfold.

“Main theek hun…” she said softly, trying to mask the flutter of emotions churning inside her.

Sidharth rolled his eyes, exasperated. “How can you be okay after skipping breakfast? Tumhe bhook kaise nahi lagi?” His concern was palpable, almost startling in its intensity.

Shehnaaz had no idea why he was so bothered.. he had never spoken to her so freely.. 
 
Sidharth’s phone was still pressed to his ear, his gaze locked on Shehnaaz with a mix of frustration and concern. His mother, on the other side of the call, remained silent, eagerly listening to every word exchanged between the two. She couldn’t help but smile widely, almost proud of the way Sidharth had unknowingly started to care for Shehnaaz.
 
“Naaz, seriously?” he repeated, running a hand through his hair in exasperation. “How can you just skip meals like that?”
 
Shehnaaz blinked, still reeling from hearing him call her ‘Naaz.’ It was such an intimate, beautiful nickname, and she wasn’t used to him addressing her like that. It wasn’t just the name, but the soft, protective way he said it that sent her heart into a spiral. She fumbled for words, feeling a little flustered under his intense gaze.
 
“I—I’m fine,” she mumbled, almost shyly, glancing down at Vihaan who was playing with her dupatta, unaware of the emotional tension between his parents.
 

In the midst of it all, Rita ji’s voice echoed from the phone, pulling both of them out of their moment.

“Sid, beta,” Rita ji said, her tone teasing, “I’m still on the line, you know.”

Sidharth stiffened, the reality of the call crashing back down on him. “Oh… uh… maa,” he stumbled, feeling a mix of embarrassment and surprise.

Rita ji laughed, her joy evident. “Chalo, achha hai. Tum dono ki baatein sunke mera din ban gaya. But Sid, tum Shehnaaz ka khayal rakh rahe ho, right?”

“bye maa..”As he hung up, he shook his head, still feeling unsettled by the layers of emotion swirling between them. The image of her skipping breakfast nagged at him, igniting a protective instinct he hadn’t fully acknowledged. The small, tender moment they’d shared lingered in his mind, and calling her “Naaz” felt like an unintentional revelation, opening up a path he had been too scared to explore.

Shehnaaz, on the other hand, was lost in thought. The nickname he had used echoed in her mind, filling her with a warmth that made her heart race. Had it really just been an accident, or did it signify something deeper? As she stole a glance at Sidharth, she couldn’t shake the feeling that their relationship was shifting in a way neither of them had expected.

_____________

As their turn came, Sidharth, Shehnaaz, and Vihaan settled in front of the pandit ji for the puja. Vihaan, still full of energy, wiggled around in Shehnaaz’s lap, his curious eyes taking in the sacred surroundings. Shehnaaz gently patted his back, trying to calm him as the pandit ji began chanting the prayers.
 
The atmosphere was calm, filled with the fragrance of incense and the sound of bells chiming in the background. Sidharth sat beside them, his hands folded in prayer, but his mind kept drifting back to Shehnaaz. Every now and then, he glanced at her, watching the way she carefully held Vihaan close, whispering soothing words in his ear whenever he grew restless.
 
Shehnaaz, though focused on the rituals, couldn’t help but feel the weight of Sidharth’s gaze. Her heart thudded in her chest, aware of how close they were—physically and emotionally—in this moment. Vihaan, oblivious to the undercurrent between his parents, played with the corner of Shehnaaz’s saree, occasionally reaching out to touch the flowers placed in front of them.
 
As the pandit ji handed the sacred offerings, Sidharth watched Shehnaaz help Vihaan with the prayers, gently whispering, “Say thank you to God, Vihaan.” Vihaan, looking up with wide eyes, mimicked his mother and mumbled, “Thank you, God,” making Shehnaaz smile warmly.
 
Sidharth, unable to tear his gaze away, softly muttered, “You’re good with him.” His voice was low, almost vulnerable.
 
Shehnaaz blinked, momentarily taken aback by the compliment. “He makes it easy,” she replied quietly, her voice barely above a whisper as she glanced down at Vihaan, avoiding Sidharth’s piercing gaze.
 
As the puja came to a close and Shehnaaz handed the prasad to Vihaan, she turned to Sidharth, holding out a small piece for him. Their hands brushed slightly, and he caught her eyes.
 
Vihaan, noticing the quiet moment, looked between them and asked innocently, “Maa, can we go home now?”
 
Breaking the tension, Shehnaaz smiled down at him. “Yes, baby. We’ll go home soon.”
 

Post the puja, they stepped out of the Mandir, the air filled with the lingering fragrance of incense and flowers. Sidharth led them to a cozy little eatery nearby, and Shehnaaz was taken aback by his unexpected attentiveness. She had never imagined he would care enough.

“Tumhe jo pasand hai, order kar lo,” Sidharth said, his gaze fixed on his phone, avoiding eye contact. “Ghar pohochate pohochate dopahar ho jayegi.”

“Ji,” she replied softly, nodding as she scrolled through the menu with Vihaan by her side.

“Daddy, mujhe burger chahiye!” Vihaan chimed in, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Sidharth placed their orders, but he felt Shehnaaz’s gaze on him. When he looked up, she quickly glanced away, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Kya hua?” he asked, curiosity tinged with concern.

Shehnaaz took a deep breath, mustering her courage. “Aap kuch nahi lenge?”

His eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of protectiveness flashing through him. “I’ll have coffee,” he replied, adding it to the order.

The food arrived quickly, and Sidharth rolled his eyes as he noticed Shehnaaz seemed more focused on feeding Vihaan than on her own plate. She gently cut a piece of her dish, handing it to Vihaan with a smile, her nurturing instincts shining through.

As Sidharth sipped his coffee, a wave of warmth washed over him. He felt at peace watching the two of them, the warmth of the moment settling in. Shehnaaz’s laughter mixed with Vihaan’s delighted chatter created a comforting atmosphere.

______________

They settled into the car quickly, the atmosphere warm and cozy as they began their drive back home. Vihaan wriggled on Shehnaaz’s lap for a few moments before finally dozing off, his little breaths soft and rhythmic.

Sidharth almost chuckled as he glanced over at Shehnaaz. Her eyes were fighting to stay open, but it was a losing battle. He watched her, quite amused, as she struggled to keep her eyelids from drooping. Eventually, they closed, surrendering to sleep.

He felt a familiar weight settle on his shoulder, and he took a deep breath to calm himself. He had grown accustomed to Shehnaaz’s ability to drift off in an instant, no matter where they were or the circumstances surrounding them. It was both charming and bewildering.

Without realizing it, he slowed the car’s speed, savoring the tranquil moment. The softness of her hair brushed against his arm, and he found himself drawn to her—completely taken in by the beauty of the woman beside him. The maroon saree she wore hugged her curves perfectly, and the scent of her perfume filled the car, making his heart race.

As she nestled closer, her arms instinctively tightened around his bicep, seeking warmth. He adjusted the AC temperature, wanting to ensure she felt comfortable. A gentle smile crept onto his lips as he relished the serenity of the moment. Shehnaaz asleep beside him, her head resting against him, was a sight hthat put his heart at ease. Vihaan’s soft snores added to the peaceful moment, completing the picture of domestic bliss.

Unable to stop himself, Sidharth’s hand reached for the Shehnaaz’s saree pallu, an unexpected warmth surging through him. he placed the fabric on the gear sofly, gripping it with his palm. It was more than just the silk beneath his fingers; it was the intimacy of their closeness, a connection that went unspoken yet felt so profound.

He allowed himself to linger there, feeling grounded and at peace in a way he hadn’t experienced in years.

As he glanced at her sleeping form, her face serene and completely unaware of the emotional storm she stirred within him, he realized how much he had let his guard down. Instead of pulling away, he kept his hand resting on the fabric, relishing this small, stolen moment of tenderness.

He sighed softly, shaking his head as confusion washed over him. What was happening to him? He had always been so careful to maintain distance, to protect himself from the emotions she invoked. Yet, here he was, unwilling to break the spell of this intimate connection.

“Tum sach mein pagal kar rahi ho mujhe…” he murmured under his breath, but even as he spoke, he made no move to pull his hand away, caught up in the warmth and comfort of the moment.

 

Author’s Note

Hello, dear readers!

In this story, I wanted to explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, focusing on the emotions that lie beneath the surface. The characters of Sidharth and Shehnaaz embody a journey filled with tension, tenderness, and unexpected connections. Through their interactions, I aimed to highlight the complexity of love and the moments that can transform a relationship.

The use of subtle gestures—like Sidharth’s instinctive protectiveness and the intimate moments shared—serves to illustrate how love can quietly blossom even amidst turmoil. I hope to convey that true connection often emerges in the most ordinary moments, and it’s those moments that create lasting bonds.

As you read, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the emotions of the characters and reflect on the nuances of their relationship. Your thoughts and feelings about their journey are what make this story meaningful. Thank you for joining me in exploring these heartfelt experiences!

Also, stay tuned for Baarish,  Bhula Dunga, Mora Piya, Beintehaa and Thodasa pyar which will be starting soon along with the rest of the stories. There’s so much more in store, and I can’t wait for you to dive into these new adventures.

Don’t forget to follow me on  Wattpad, Instagram and Youtube  for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your support on these platforms helps keep the creativity flowing.

With love and gratitude,

Shalaka

Chapter 26
Chapter 28

75 thoughts on “Chapter 27”

  31. Alisha

    They are so cute😍🥺. I love them so much. This was such a nice chapter. Loved how they expressed themselves to each other a bit more in this chapter🥺❤❤

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  41. Jaan-e-Suhail

    Waise Yar thodhi fast scenes write karo abhi tak hum mandir scene hi end kar paye hain… Sorry Yar but write this fiction fast.. like thodhi agay badhay…

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    Reply
  43. Anonymous

    Wow, so beautiful story and the way you describe the feeling of their heart it’s so amazing. I really miss them. can you please upload the story WattPed also…

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  45. Shazah777

    Dear the story very beautiful but you narrating all the story with minimal dialogue made it very boring I skipt mostly all the chapter just to search for thier dialogue

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  46. Jiya

    No doubt u r a wonderful writer n m sure I can’t write even ten percent as you write but being a reader in a very respectful manner I’m requesting and expressing that narrating the story in some extent ok but its getting little boring now ur story is fantastic I hv been a silent reader of yours for last 3 years n I think this is the very first time m writing thr comment plz don’t mind m sorry if I say anything wrong it just my feedback as a reader n second request is plz update jaldi deya kijiye sabar nahi hota ha

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    1. Shruti somya

      One side you’re saying ki story boring ho rahi h aur another side you’re saying that jaldi update diya karo wait nhi ho raha h you both sentences contradicts each other be clear what you really want ……
      This writer is famous bcoz she doesn’t create unnecessary drama and twist she connects her story with reality nd explain each nd every feeling and the things which a character go through……

      +1
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      1. Jiya

        First you need to read carefully I said story is awesome the way she narrate the story n emotions gud but sometimes it gets little exaggerated which makes hard 2 stay n d story flow. As I aforementioned I even can’t imagine 2 write what she is doing but being a reader I just put my pov that too n a respectful manner I didn’t want her to take my pov n wrong way that’s y first I appreciated her work which was indeed a fact. It just I felt in that way especially from last three chapters rest she z the one on d best writer here no one can deny the fact. But I didn’t get without understanding the pov how could you say that I wanted to have drama n d story my dear I love to read realistic content shalaka is one of those among writers who knows how to connect the readers by writing thr realistic content that’s y I adore her kindly before putting false narrative atleast do your homework properly hope now u get your point clear

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  52. Anonymous

    Again mind blowing update👏🏻❤️ Just loved it.
    Aise lag raha hai ki finish hi na ho and mai read karti rahu but unfortunately have to wait for another update.

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