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The meeting headache was still pounding behind my eyes. Honestly, I felt like smashing my head against the wall.
And thanks to Dad disappearing to some random wedding, people we barely know, I got stuck handling extra meetings.
Desi family logic- attendance compulsory in a wedding, even if they are not your close relatives.
At least the sample project wrapped up fast. Graphics were fine, just needed a quick talk with the animation team. Still, this animation stuff is new for me, so my head was already spinning. Even the interns looked half-dead by the end.
Finally done, I dragged myself to the intern area. Because apparently, personal space doesn’t exist for me.
Just one more week of probation torture.
And of course, Miss Anaya was still there. Fingers flying over the keyboard, snapping at interns, acting like the intern area was her empire.
I ignored her and sat down, pulling out my phone.
All I wanted was a dose of Ruh’s voice to make this headache fade.
But the second I unlocked my screen, a frown formed instantly.
One missed call. One answered call. From Ruh.
Answered? By who? Definitely not me.
And Ruh never stays silent if I miss her call, she always leaves a message.
My eyes narrowed.
I already knew.
I looked at Anaya.
“Miss Anaya,” I said, voice low, jaw tight, “it’s bad manners to pick up someone else’s call.”
She didn’t even look guilty.
Just leaned back in her chair, arms crossed like she owned the place, “It was disturbing me, so I answered. Keep your phone on silent. And tell people not to call you during work hours.”
My blood boiled, my voice was cold, “My hours were already over. I got stuck here because of these extra meetings. And even if my phone rings, it’s mine. You don’t touch it. What exactly did you say?”
She sighed like I was wasting her time, tapping her pen against the desk, “Nothing. Just told the caller not to disturb you.”
That was it. My hands itched.
It took everything in me not to break something right then.
How dare she answer Ruh’s call…my Ruh. No one had the right to talk to her like that.
“Next time,” I said tightly, “don’t touch my phone. If it bothered you, put it on silent. But don’t you ever answer it.”
I grabbed my phone and walked out before I said something worse.
No way was I wasting another second arguing with her.
Straight away, I called Ruh. No answer.
Then finally, she picked up.
“Sorry, I was busy in a meeting-,” I muttered as I pushed open the car door, my voice softer now.
But instead of her voice, I heard background chaos. Loud music. Shouting.
And then I heard Vani’s voice.
“Come fast. Apni Ruh ko smbhalo isse pehle hamari Ruh nikal jaaye”
What?
She sent me the location. I put it on Maps and drove off.
It was her father’s Club. Loud music punched me in the face the second I entered. Thanks to Vani’s pass, I slipped inside.
I searched around, pushing past sweaty people dancing like idiots until I found the scene.
Oh no. I am not ready for this.
“What the hell is going on here?” I muttered, stepping closer.
“Vihannnnnnn!” Ruh squealed, stumbling right into me. She hugged me so tight, like I was her teddy bear.
I patted her head.
I saw her in a black bodycon dress.
My eyes betrayed me instantly, tracing every curve the fabric hugged so perfectly.
The sheer sleeves, the daring neckline, the hem that barely grazed her thighs,
Damn it.
I swallowed hard, tried to look away, but it was useless. My chest felt tight, my jaw clenched, and one thought echoed in my head…how the hell am I supposed to survive this?
“Ruh,” I whispered near her ear.
She giggled, swaying a little, and slurred, “I missed youuuu.”
I stared at her. Drunk? My Ruh? She never drinks. She doesn’t even let me drink. Half the time even i secretly drink just so she won’t scold me.
“What did she even drink?” I muttered under my breath.
Sid cleared his throat and I turned to Vani.
I narrowed my eyes at her.
“She drank on her own. Not my fault,” Vani said quickly, raising her hands like she surrendered.
I pressed my lips together and shook my head. Enough. Decision made. I was taking her home before she caused more drama.
“Ruh, let’s go,” I said, holding her wrist lightly.
She shook her head, hair falling across her face, still giggling. “Nooo, I will stay here.”
“Ruh, you know if your bhai and Dad find out you are drunk… sooo…” I leaned down slightly, lowering my voice like I was sharing a secret.
She gasped, eyes going wide, “They will scold me?”
“Yes. Now be a good girl and come with me,” I said, my voice was a little firm yet gentle.
She pouted, then nodded slowly. “Okay…” she whispered.
I removed my coat and made her wear, exhaled in relief and started to guide her forward.
That’s when Tanya jumped in front of us, hands on her waist, and decided to turn the whole scene into a free Sholay 2.0 movie.
After the whole “Basanti drama” broke out.
Honestly? I enjoyed watching Yash’s beizzati. He deserved it.
Huh!! Free entertainment.
After things cooled down, Vani handed me Ruh’s bag.
“Want me to drop you?” I asked, steadying Ruh who was leaning on my shoulder.
Vani shook her head, checking her phone, “No need. I’ll drive myself.”
“You sure?” I raised an eyebrow.
She nodded.
I gave Sid a look. He gave me a quick nod back. Okay, he would be with her.
So I dragged Ruh toward the parking lot. She kept mumbling nonsense, swaying like a cartoon character.
“Stop pulling me, I am a free bird,” Ruh yelled, flapping her arms.
“Free bird? You look more like a penguin on vacation,” I muttered, opening the car door.
She gasped, clutching her chest, “Penguin? Excuse meee, penguins are adorable.”
“Exactly. Waddling around, slipping every two steps,” i said raising my eyebrows.
I looked at her puffy cheeks nose getting red as she is irritated by my remark.
But then she giggled.
She poked my chest with her finger and mumbled, “Fine. Then you are my penguin partner. Penguins always stay in pairs.”
I sighed, “No thanks. I am not applying for the Antarctica residency.”
Why is she suddenly turning us into a couple’s documentary on Animal Planet?
She giggled, leaning closer, “Don’t lieee. You would look cute in a tuxedo like a penguin.”
I rolled my eyes, “Yeah, right. I’ll be looking handsome in whatever species.”
And that’s a fact. Even drunk Ruh can’t deny it.
She smirked looking at me, “See? We are perfect. I’ll be the penguin queen, and you…you’ll be my penguin king.”
I froze, staring at her.
What the hell? Penguin King? Penguin Queen?
Are we planning a penguin kingdom now?
Great. At this rate, tomorrow morning she will make me adopt penguin babies too.
She clapped her hands like a kid, “Yes. We will have a whole igloo…with baby penguins sliding around. So cute.”
Unbelievable. She’s out here drunk, building a whole penguin family, and I am just trying to keep her from tripping over her own feet.
How do I even argue with this level of brainrot?
And the worst part? She actually looks adorable while saying it.
No doubt. My Ruh looks adorable, whatever she does.
I rolled my eyes, buckled her seat belt, shoved a water bottle into her hands.
She took a sip, then hiccupped and then wiggled her eyebrows asking, “Why does water taste like…sad tears?”
“…Because you are drunk,” i shrugged my shoulders.
“Nooo. Because mermaids cried in it,” she laughed, and hit my shoulder with her arms.
I sighed.
She leaned back, muttering pure gibberish.
I had just started driving when Ruh suddenly turned to me.
“Stop the car,” she shouted, pointing at the window with wide eyes.
I pressed the brake and looked at her.
“What happened, Ruh? Are you okay? Or are you feeling sick?” I leaned closer and checked her forehead with my hand.
“Cotton candy,” she whined, still staring outside, her eyes twinkling.
I looked outside, then back at her, “No.”
She grabbed my arm tightly, “Vihaaaannn! Pleeeaaasseee!!”
“No, Ruh. We are going straight home. I’ll make you something there. Not now,” I said, rubbing her hand to calm her.
I can’t let her stand outside this late when she is this much drunk.
Her lips wobbled.
Then she burst out crying, “You don’t love me.”
I blinked at her.
Wait? What?
“Ruh, where is this even coming from?” I asked her, trying to calm her as she cried.
Does she really think cotton candy is a love language?
“I want cotton candy right now,” she shouted louder and stomped her foot on the car floor.
I let out a long breath, “I’ll buy it tomorrow.”
It’s already late and she is not in her senses.
She grabbed my handkerchief and wiped her nose, “I’ll complain to Adhya mumma about you.”
I froze.
Mumma?
She just called my mom as her mumma….my heart skipped, i tried not to smile like a foolish chimpanzee but stupid heart of mine.
But no, Vihaan, stay professional.
Yes.
“But still no. It has too much sugar,” I said firmly.
She clasped her hands together and looked at me with puppy eyes, “But I’ll only eat one. Just once. Pleaseee.”
I pinched the bridge of my nose, and said in a little strict tone, “Ruhanika.”
She glared at me with her arms crossed, “Bade hi kanjoos insaan ho. Ek βΉ10 ka cotton candy bhi nahi kharid sakte apni Ruh ke liye.”
Kanjoos? Really?
Why am I even arguing with a drunk cotton candy penguin queen?
She suddenly said, “Fine. I’ll complain to Kunal bhai. Then he won’t let you marry me.”
Before she could continue, I tightened my grip on the steering wheel, “Which color do you want? Pink, blue, or yellow?”
Her whole face lit up.
“Blue. I want the blue one.” She said in an excited tone like a kid is getting a magic eraser.
I groaned and pulled into the market area.
“Fine. But you stay here. Don’t move. Don’t even blink,” I pointed a finger at her.
Yeah right, like she always listens to me and on top of that when drunk.
She nodded quickly, “Okay.”
I walked to the vendor, still keeping an eye on her. She sat inside the car, smiling at everything around her.
Finally distracted. At least she’s calm for now.
The vendor had blue cotton candy, so I bought that and also picked pink and yellow for later. No one knows when her mood swings turn on.
I paid, turned around-then froze.
The car door was wide open. Ruh was standing at the next shop.
This girl.
Fantastic.
I hurried over.
“Ruh, come here,” I held her arm gently to bring her closer.
“Vihaaaaannnnnn!!!! ye kitna cute hai!” she said, pointing at small crochet soft toys.
She picked up a tiny penguin, “I want this.”
I bent a little to check, “What is this?”
“It’s a little penguin. See?” She held it up near my face.
I said looking at her, “We already have Mr. Penguin with me and Miss Penguin with you, remember?”
The shopkeeper aunty smiled at us, clearly entertained.
I remember her dad won a penguin toy for her on our first dramatic date.
She really loves that day because her father won it for her.
I bent down to look at those little penguins, “How much for these?”
I picked up a couple of crochet penguins.
Ruh’s eyes widened as she looked at them with pure happiness but she picked all five of them. I looked at her smile as she looked those little penguins.
The aunty told me the price. I paid and handed them to Ruh.
She held the penguins carefully, smiling like they were real.
“Aunty, don’t you think my penguin’s father is so cute?” She giggled, pointing at me. “But he is so annoying.”
The aunty laughed.
“Beta, you both look so cute,” She touched Ruh’s head softly and gave her blessings.
She covered her mouth, but a laugh still slipped out.
“Aunty, if you ever have knee pain, back pain, or headache, come to me. I’ll give you free medicine,” She whispered as if it was a secret.
Aunty chuckled, “But beta, I don’t even know you.”
Ruh’s face fell, “You don’t know me?”
Aunty looked at me as she raised her eyebrows asking me about Ruh, worried.
I shook my head lightly, telling the aunty not to worry.
“Mai Vihaan ki Ruh hu,” she whispered in her ear, then let out a tiny laugh.
Vihaan ki Ruh. Don’t blush, Vihaan. Stay normal.
The aunty laughed more as Ruh slipped to my side.
Suddenly, she stood right in front of me, so close I had to take a breath to steady myself. Without warning, she reached into my pocket, pulled out my wallet, flipped it open, and took out my hospital card. She handed it straight to the aunty.
I quickly stepped forward, took the card back, and explained everything to the aunty, the hospital address, the number to call, and what exactly she had to do.
The aunty looked relieved. She gave Ruh a warm smile and said, “Thank you, beta.”
I chuckled, holding Ruh’s hand, “Can we go now?”
“No. I want to go to the park.” she said loudly.
“No,” I replied, narrowing my eyes.
She pouted, “Then I’ll complain to my dad about you. He won’t let you marry me-“
I pressed my forehead, “Fine. Let’s go.”
What choice do I even have? I can’t risk staying unmarried my whole life.
She grabbed the blue cotton candy, tore it open, and started eating while walking toward the park. She fed me a piece too.
“Too sweet,” I muttered.
She smiled, “It’s sweet like you.”
“Vihaaan, sunoooo,” she sang.
“Sunaiye,” I muttered, fixing her coat on her shoulder.
She clutched her penguins tightly, “I don’t like SST. You will be teaching that subject to our little penguins. I hate it.”
I nodded, well remembering how i always slept in SST classes.
“I’ll teach our penguins maths and science. I am good at it,” she said proudly.
“Yes, yes, you are good in everything,” I said while putting the penguins safely into her bag.
She happily walked inside the park, eating cotton candy.
On the way, she started singing, “Aaj main upar, aasmaan neeche! Aaj mai aage zamana hai peeche….”
I facepalmed when she tried to cross to the wrong side of the road.
“Udhar gutter hai meri maa, zamana Idhar hai,” I pulled her back quickly.
She looked at me, confused as she muttered, “Zamana ne apna ghar shift kar diya kya?”
I shook my head.
Her sense of humor is broken.
At the park, she kept feeding me cotton candy and laughing. And even though it was messy and little bits of cotton candy on her lips…She still looked adorable.
Her eyes sparkled as she spotted the swings. She pointed straight at them, face lighting up like a kid.
“No, you will get hurt” I said instantly.
She stomped her foot, arms crossed tight and walked over to the swing sitting comfortably.
“Vihaan.Push me slowly.”
I sighed, gave her a gentle push.
She threw her head back, swinging like it was a roller coaster.
“Yayy I am flying,” she squealed, kicking her legs, then burst into some alien song that made zero sense.
After letting her play with the swing for a while, I finally stopped it with my hand.
“Ruh, enough. We are going home now.”
She nodded then bent down all of a sudden, eyes wide.
My stomach tightened, “What now…”
She crouched, scooped something up with both hands, then stood grinning at me.
I froze. My throat went dry.
It was an EARTHWORM.
A slimy, squirmy EARTHWORM.
She held it up close to my face, smiling like it was a treasure, “Ain’t this little baby so cute?”
I stumbled back, palms in the air. Every nerve in my body screamed.
She stroked it gently with her finger, cradling it in her palm, “He is so adorable …..Just like you!”
Excuse me? Did she just compare me…. to a worm? From which angle am I worm material?
‘Well in that case you get also compared with a chimpanzee,’ my brain mocked me.
She edged it closer to my cheek. I actually jumped.
“What should we name this cutie, huh?” Ruh asked, crouching down.
I swallowed hard. Why am I even entertaining this? It’s an earthworm, not a puppy.
“How about…Little Wormy?” she added, leaning closer to me with a grin.
I immediately stepped back.
“Ruh, please keep that thing away from me,” I muttered, forcing all the courage I had.
The way that worm was twisting. I swear it looked like it was glaring at me.
Great. Now I am being judged by a little wormy.
She said, eyes sparkling, “Let’s adopt him! He’ll be our seventh son. You’ll be a nice father, and I’ll be a nice mother.”
Seventh son? What is this, joint family planning? We already have Skully, that creepy skeleton, and her five stuffed penguins. Now Wormy?
“No. We already have Skully and the penguins. That’s enough parenting,” I said, backing away.
She pouted, holding the worm up to her cheek, “But Vihaan, look. He is alone. Poor baby. Don’t worry, Wormy, I’ll take care of you.”
And the worm wriggled in her palm like it was enjoying all this attention.
Why does it look…happy? Eww.
“Can we keep him, pleaaaase?” she asked, giving me puppy eyes.
I pressed my temples hard, “Do you want us to become parents of the whole animal kingdom? At this rate, I’ll be living in a zoo with a skeleton, five penguins, and now a worm.”
She tilted her head, looking thoughtful. “Nice idea. But it will too crowded.”
Relax, Vihaan. Calm down. Handle drunk Ruh like a toddler.
“Ruh, Wormy already has a family. If we take him away, he’ll be sad,” I said slowly, like explaining ABCs.
Her lips trembled, then she nodded.
“Okay…” She crouched near a tree, bent down carefully, and placed the worm back. “Go back to your family, baby. Don’t be scared.”
She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand as the worm crawled away.
Thank God. One crisis solved. My heart is still thudding like I just survived a car crash.
Why does my Ruh always fall in love with the weirdest species on Earth?
‘Including you also,’ my brain again muttered.
This stupid brain of mine.
I muttered under my breath, “Before I become the father of another animal or insect, I should just take her home.”
I picked Ruh up in my arms.
“Let’s go,” I said firmly.
She nodded happily, one arm around my neck while the other shoved cotton candy into her mouth.
She even pressed some against my lips.
Sticky sugar. I hated it. But I still ate it…because saying no to a drunk Ruh would only bring drama.
I placed her in the passenger seat. She shifted around, legs tucked up, still chewing. Finally, after all her nonstop chatter, she stayed quiet.
We reached her house. Luckily, everyone was still away at that wedding and won’t come tomorrow till evening. If anyone had been here, explaining her condition would have been a nightmare.
I unlocked the main door with the key she handed me. She clung to me tighter, arms around my neck, refusing to let go.
“Ruh, relax, we are inside,” I muttered, trying to balance her weight while shutting the door behind me with one hand.
She only smiled, hugging me tighter, face pressed against my neck.
Ignoring her antics, I carried her upstairs. She flicked on the light while still in my arms. I laid her down gently on the bed.
She stayed quiet, her eyes fixed on me, tracking every small movement I made. The coat she had been wearing lay tossed carelessly in the corner.
I undid the buttons on my sleeves and rolled them up slowly. Her gaze still didn’t move away for even a second.
“Stop staring,” I said in a low voice. “I am not doing a fashion show.”
I crouched in front of her and reached for her ankle. She stiffened for a second, pulling back slightly, but didn’t say anything. Gently, I unstrapped her heels and slid them off one by one. Her skin looked red, a small sore forming at the back.
I sighed under my breath. Of course. Every single time she wears heels, this happens. Still, she refuses to stop. That’s why I always keep band-aids with me now.
I tore one open carefully and pressed it over the sore spot, my fingers brushing lightly against her ankle. She flinched a little at the touch, then relaxed. I made sure it was stuck properly before setting her heels aside neatly.
Next, I carefully removed her earrings. She sighed softly, then suddenly grabbed my collar and pulled me close.
I steadied myself, both hands braced on the bed beside her. “What?” I asked cautiously.
Her fingers brushed down the front of my shirt, moving slowly as if testing every button one by one.
My chest tightened instantly, heat crawling up my neck.
She leaned closer, her lips grazing the shell of my ear, warm breath hitting my skin.
“Vihaaaannnn” she whispered, dragging my name so slowly that it burned something inside me.
I sucked in a sharp breath, trying not to lose it.
“Yes?” I whispered back, barely recognizing my own voice.
“I am hungry,” she murmured, the tone nothing close to innocent.
I looked at her and said in a low voice, “What?”
“I am hungry,” she repeated, this time with a baby face, blinking up at me as though she hadn’t just melted every nerve in my body.
Unbelievable. My head was a mess.
“What do you want to eat?” I asked softly, brushing my thumb over her cheek.
She stared at me like I was the only thing she wanted.
That look….it was lethal. I shut my eyes for a second, whispered through clenched teeth, “Wait here. Just one minute.”
I slipped out onto the balcony, yanking my tie loose, unbuttoning my shirt halfway, dragging in deep breaths.
Calm down, Vihaan. Control yourself. She is drunk. She doesn’t know what she is doing. You can’t lose it now.
When I returned, she was sprawled across the bed, elbow propped, chin resting on her palm, and smirk tugging her lips.
“Vihu baby,” she called, voice dripping with teasing sweetness.
My throat tightened. Baby? She just-No way. I coughed to cover the way my pulse spiked.
I walked closer, slower than I should have.
She whispered, “It’s already been one minute.”
“Yes,” I answered, voice rougher than intended. “So what do you want to eat?”
Instead of answering, her hand slid flat across my chest, fingers pressing lightly as they trailed down toward my stomach. The fabric was doing nothing to keep me away from her touch.
“I want something spicy,” she whispered, eyes locked onto mine, unblinking.
I cleared my throat and asked, “What?”
“You,” she breathed, tilting up, her teeth grazing my upper lip before her lips brushed mine.
My heartbeat slammed in my ears. Heat shot through me.
I instantly pulled back, voice breaking, “Ruh!”
She tilted her head, lips curling into a dangerous smirk.
“Hmm… I am listening,” Her fingers tugged at my collar, pulling me back toward her.
I caught her wrists gently but firmly, pressing her down into the bed. My body hovered dangerously close over hers.
“Enough,” I rasped. “I’ll get you cold water. You need to calm down.”
She only licked her lips slowly, eyes still pinned to mine.
“Okay,” she whispered, not resisting for even a second. That smile of hers didn’t fade, it only deepened.
I rushed downstairs, filled a glass with cold water, and drank the entire thing myself. Then poured another and drank again.
Focus, Vihaan. Just make her sleep. That’s the only plan.
At least that’s what I thought-until I heard movement from her room upstairs.
I quickly shoved the bottle into the fridge, but the second I stepped out, the music slammed into me, loud and intoxicating.
My chest tightened was Ruh really playing that song?
I entered the room, and there she was.
Her short black bodycon dress, its fabric clinging shamelessly to her curves, sheer sleeves slipping down her arms. Her long hair spilled over her bare shoulders as she sang, swaying her waist with a wild rhythm.
Her lips parted around the words, voice sultry, eyes locked on mine:
“Beedi jalai le, jigar se piya… jigar maa badi aag hai…”
My mouth fell open. She is my Ruh? Right?
Damn it, she looked too hot.
She moved closer, her waist swaying just enough to tease, until her fingers caught my tie. With one sharp tug, she pulled me toward her, our breaths colliding in the heat between us.
Her face was inches from mine, her fingertip tracing the outline of my lips.
She sang, almost against my mouth, “Beedi jalai le, jigar se piya… jigar maa badi aag hai…”
I gulped hard, my eyes fluttering shut but I still left a small gap to watch her moves. Her body was fire, tempting, and sinful.
Then, with a sudden leap, she jumped onto the bed, the dress riding scandalously up her thighs. She threw her head back, waist twisting, and sang out, “Dhuan naa nikaari o lab se piya…”
Before I could even catch my breath, she collapsed into my arms, her body pressed against me.
Her lips brushed along my jaw, grazing lower to my neck.
Her nails teased my skin as she whispered seductively, “Ah haa… dhuan naa nikaari o lab se piya… je duniya badi jhaag hai…”
My hands instinctively tightened around her, fighting the urge to pin her right there.
The song picked up again, and she pulled away only to dance harder, her black dress sliding dangerously off one shoulder. My hand shot up to fix it, but she only smirked, loving the way my self-control was fraying.
She spun, hair flying, sheer sleeves fluttering as she belted out, “Beedi jalai le, jigar se piya… jigar maa badi aag hai…”
And then she moved recklessly, bold to the core, her voice rising with each word.
“Naa ghilaaf, naa lihaaf, thandi hawa bhi khilaaf, sasuri…”
She twirled toward me, teasing, daring me to look away.
“Itni sardi hai kisi ka lihaaf lei le…. jaa padosi ke chulhe se aag lei le… jaa padosi ke chulhe se aag lei le…”
Her body writhed with the beat, every move hotter than the last, until finally she crashed back into my arms, breathless, lips parted, eyes heavy with desire.
I was stunned, shocked, had I ever seen this side of her before?
How many more versions of Ruh were left for me to uncover?
Her chest heaved against mine as she whispered, almost accusing but begging at the same time, “Come closer to me.”
I looked down at her, unable to fight anymore.
And this time, I did exactly what she asked.
She opened her arms. I didn’t even think before stepping into them, but the next second she pushed me back onto the bed. My back hit the mattress, and she climbed over me, hovering with a fire in her eyes.
“I hate that girl who picked up your call,” she whispered, slowly tugging at my tie.
“She is-” I started, but she yanked me up into a kiss.
Her mouth was hot, desperate, sucking hard on my lower lip. I froze for a second, then gripped her waist, heart hammering.
What the hell-where did she even learn to kiss like this?
She pulled back just enough to whisper against my mouth, voice sharp, “I don’t like hearing any other woman’s name from you. I don’t like anything that isn’t me coming out of your lips.”
My chest rose and fell rapidly. She kissed my jaw next, trailing fire across my skin, and I swear I was gone.
“I hate when other women even look at you,” she murmured between kisses, her lips moving down my neck.
I groaned, trying to hold on, but then her mouth caught mine again. I kissed her back, this time harder, losing the last thread of control.
Her fingers moved quickly, fumbling at my shirt buttons.
“Ruh…” Her name escaped my lips like a moan.
“Open your shirt,” she ordered, her tone strict.
“What?” I looked at her, shocked.
“Open it,” she said again, tracing her nails lightly over my jaw.
“I thought you were shy and introvert, but everything you are doing right now is making me rethink that,” I teased, tucking her hair behind ear, as smirk plastered over my lips.
She gave me a wicked little smirk and leaned in, biting my lip before whispering against it, her voice husky, slowly playing with my tie, “Shhh…. you don’t know. We shy and introvert people have the wildest fantasies anyone could imagine.”
My eyes widened when I realized what she had done-my wrists were tied wuth my own damn tie.
Heat shot straight through me, half shock, half something else I didn’t even want to admit. My jaw clenched, breath coming heavier as I stared at her smirking face, wondering how the hell she managed to pull this off without me realizing.
“What the hell?” I tugged, stunned.
She ignored me, opening my shirt slowly, her lips leaving lipstick stains down my chest.
I struggled, finally freeing myself from her knot, and grabbed her waist, stopping her.
Sitting up, I stared at her. She looked so damn innocent, even with that dangerous fire burning in her eyes.
“You should sleep,” I said softly, caressing her hair, even as my shirt hung open, her lipstick marking my skin.
“No… I want you,” she mumbled, pushing my shirt off my shoulders and kissing my neck again.
“Ruh…” I moaned, head falling back as she bit my skin lightly. Heat shot through me.
“What?” she asked against my throat, her fingers trailing down my torso. She shifted, kneeling beside me, kissing my neck and running her nails across my abs.
Damn it. I was losing it. My senses were gone.
“Please…. it’s getting hard for me,” I said in a low voice, my voice broken.
She blinked innocently, tilting her head, “What’s getting hard?”
The heck. Who’s gonna explain this to her?
“The situation…. is getting hard,” I groaned when her tongue licked across my skin again.
I barely managed to grip her shoulders.
“Okay…. Let’s stop here. We’ll continue later,” I forced the words out, trying to calm my racing pulse.
“Why?” she asked, pouting. Her lips trembled slightly.
My heart twisted.
“Why do you always stop in between?” she whispered, hurt slipping into her voice.
I frowned.
She cupped my face, her eyes searching for mine, “Don’t you… don’t you find me beautiful? Or do you think I’m just-“
I shut her up by clutching her waist, “What the hell are you thinking? Where did that even come from?”
Her eyes widened suddenly, “Wait…” She gasped.
“I never thought about this before-do you… do you have some problem down there?” She said in a serious tone pointing her finger.
“What the-” I nearly choked.
Her innocent gaze didn’t waver.
“It’s okay, you can tell me. I’m a doctor….wait… let me check,” she said, reaching for my belt.
“Ruh!” I grabbed her hands and flipped us over, pinning her beneath me.
She gasped, breath coming fast, staring up at me.
I leaned closer, my forehead against hers, my voice rough, “You don’t even know how hard it is for me to control myself around you.”
Her hand slid across my back, nails grazing my skin through the shirt. I tucked her hair behind her ear, my lips brushing dangerously close to hers, trying to hold back the last shred of control I had left.
“If I do everything now, then what will be left for our wedding night?” I murmured in her ear. Her nails dug into my back, and she breathed heavily against me.
“So, meri Ruh, you don’t even know how much I want you. Don’t overthink with that pretty brain, it’s already tired. Now let’s sleep,” I whispered, brushing my lips against her temple.
Her half-closed eyes fluttered, and she only hummed softly. I kissed her forehead and slowly stood up. She curled into the bed like a child, making me chuckle.
I opened the cupboard, searching for her night suit.
Where does she even keep these things… ah, here.
“Stand up, Ruh,” I said, my back still turned. I slipped her shirt off the hanger and opened its buttons. When I turned around, she was lying there, still staring at the ceiling.
“Ruh,” I called again. She finally lifted her head and leaned on her elbow, looking straight at me.
“When is our wedding night?” she asked suddenly, voice low and husky.
“What? Why so desperate?” I teased, raising a brow.
“Yes. Tell me when is it?” she pressed.
“When we get married,” I said, trying to keep my voice calm though my chest felt tight. “Whenever you’re ready.”
“I am ready,” she whispered, hesitant but honestly, alcohol making her braver than usual.
“Ab bolo, Vihaan,” she demanded softly.
I sighed, giving in.
“Tomorrow,” I said. Her eyes lit up instantly and she giggled like a little girl.
“Stand up,” I told her, and this time she obeyed. I held her gently, keeping her steady.
“Just stay still. I’ll open your zip and then you can change into your night suit, okay?”
She nodded, her back to me. I dragged in a deep breath and slowly tried to pull the zipper down. But of course, the damn thing got stuck.
I tugged harder. Nothing. I pulled again and the zipper snapped right off into my hand.
My heart dropped. Oh hell. Ruh is going to kill me.
I gulped, panicked.
She is drunk. She won’t remember. Just blame it on her. My brain mocked me, We’ll see later, Vihaan Raichand.
Clearing my throat, I said quickly, “It’s done. Now change into this,” and handed her the night suit.
I turned toward the wall, giving her privacy. After waiting for her tension minutes i cleared my throat.
“Ruh, did you change?” I asked.
She mumbled something that didn’t sound like words.
“Yesss,” she finally replied.
I turned slowly and almost facepalmed.
Yes, she had changed but she had buttoned her top wrong, leaving the second one open while the rest were mismatched.
I walked up to her, fixing her buttons properly.
She leaned her head on my shoulder like a sleepy kid.
“Now it’s bedtime,” I whispered, caressing her hair.
She nodded slowly, eyes half shut.
Then I carried her back, laid her down on the bed, and pulled the duvet over her.
But she immediately turned toward me, mumbling something I didn’t catch.
“Are you not able to sleep?” I asked, crouching beside her.
She blinked and whispered, “No.”
“You will eventually sleep. Close your eyes, just” I said, and she did, but giggled.
“I only saw darkness, not sleep,” she laughed, and I facepalmed.
I walked over to pick up the T-shirt in her cupboard which she had taken from me, and she called, “Vihuuu, babyy!” I closed my eyes in defeat.
I looked over at her. She opened her arms, “Come here.”
I hesitated a bit, but eventually wore my T-shirt, went over, and opened the small galaxy projector. Soft stars and gentle nebulae danced across the ceiling, casting a warm, magical glow.
She shifted, and I laid beside her, to which she wrapped her hands and legs around me. I chuckled, seeing her sleep like this for the first time otherwise she always slept so disciplined.
She tilted her face up slightly, “Vihaan…”
“Hm?” I hummed, playing with her hair absentmindedly.
I caressed her hair, almost letting her drift off.
“I have a wish,” she said, and I nodded.
“I want Mr. Penguin and Miss Penguin get married so that their little penguins can live happily,” she murmured, and I frowned.
“Hmm??”
“And so we will…Me, You, Skully and our….” Before she could complete the last word coherently, she drifted closer. I patted her back so she would sleep soon.
Mr. Penguin and Miss Penguin married? And little penguins???
I didn’t get it.
What does she want to say?
But suddenly my brain clicked her words.
My heart skipped a beat. Does she really?
A foolish smile spread across my face, and I kissed her forehead. She shifted slightly, so I kissed her nose and cheek.
“I’ll complete your wish soon, Ruh,” I murmured slowly in her ear.
She snuggled closer, the soft hum of the galaxy projector filling the room with quiet magic. When I knew she had fallen asleep, I slipped out from under the duvet to clean the room. She doesn’t like messy things.
She curled up instantly, her face soft and calm like a sleeping baby.
I chuckled under my breath. Great. She stole my sleep, danced like a crazy-i mean hot, kissed me half to death, and now she’s snoring like nothing happened. Perfect.
Still restless, I started tidying up her room. Her desk looked like a war zone-open books, scattered notes, pens everywhere. Clearly, she was studying before her drunk performance tonight.
As I stacked her books, I noticed a diary shoved under some papers. My hand paused.
I frowned. Wait a second…didn’t she say she gave me all her diaries to read?
Then what’s this?
I picked it up, turning it over in my hands.
“It’s personal… I shouldn’t open it,” I muttered.
But then my eyes caught my own name written boldly on a page sticking out.
If my name is in this, there’s no way I won’t read it. I definitely will.
I flipped open the diary and started reading.
Within two minutes, I rolled my eyes so hard it almost hurt.
Unbelievable. She tortured me today making my heart go crazy, and she tortured me in writing too.
I closed the diary carefully, and the smirk still plastered on my face.
Glancing at her peacefully sleeping on the bed, I couldn’t help but smirk, “Don’t worry, my dear Ruh. You have no idea what sweet revenge is waiting for you.”
I opened my eyes with a pounding headache.
“Ughhh, my brain…” I groaned, rubbing my temples.
I looked around.
Wait, this is my bedroom.
My bedroom? When did I get here? How?
I tried to think, but all I could remember was drinking juice and then blackout. Great.
I lost my memory like an old USB drive.
Of course, my brain had to focus on the most important thing ever.
Who was that girl on the phone yesterday??
“Why can’t I remember anything….” I sighed, frustrated.
“Utar gaya nasha,” a voice said.
I lazily hummed, “Hmm.” But then my brain fully rebooted, and I saw him leaning against the doorframe.
Vihaan.
Wait. Why is he here?
Did I do something?
No, no, impossible.
I am a disciplined girl.
“What are you doing here?” I asked, trying to sound firm.
“Shouldn’t you be asking yourself that?” He raised his eyebrows and pointed to my clothes tossed on the couch.
My eyes widened. Those were my clothes from yesterday.
I instantly looked down-thankfully, I was still in my night suit.
I sighed in relief.
“Tell me, who was that stupid girl on the phone?” I asked, trying to sound serious.
“Anaya, don’t worry. She won’t dare talk to you like that again,” he said, crossing his arms.
I nodded and headed to the washroom in pure confidence while he chuckled softly.
Inside, I closed the door and stared at myself in the mirror with pure horror.
“What the hell happened yesterday?! Ruhanika, think, THINK!”
I washed my face, brushed my teeth aggressively, and tried to remember.
All I got were blurry images-me dancing…some singing…basanti….cotton candy?
What even happened last night?
When I came out, Vihaan was standing there with a towel. He wiped my face like I was five years old.
“You must be hungry. Let’s fill your tummy…with food,” he smirked.
I rolled my eyes so hard I almost saw my brain.
I was about to leave when I spotted our little penguins. My mind immediately remembered as i got a flashbacks, and I giggled, smiling at the cute little Cutiepies.
I picked up my dress, ready to toss it into the basket until I noticed the zip broken.
“Stupid Vihaan Raichand,” I muttered under my breath, glaring at it
But Vihaan called me downstairs.
I stepped downstairs in anger and sat on a chair, and he served oats, fruit salad, and pancakes, my soul practically left my body.
Damn, he really knew my weakness.
I think I can forget him for the dress.
“Thank you,” I said, smiling.
He sat down opposite me.
He had been here the whole night?
Oh God. I did something. I definitely did something.
I tried to eat normally, but my brain betrayed me.
“Ruhanika, remember what you did last night,” it whispered.
And then a flashback of me dancing to “Beedi Jalai Le” hit me like a truck.
Oh no. Oh hell no. That was so Embarrassing.
“Last night, your behavior was kind of…” Vihaan started.
“Nope.” I held up my hand dramatically.
“I am a very disciplined girl. And I am sure, even drunk, I was perfectly disciplined,” I nodded with fake confidence.
“Really?” He smirked and leaned forward, his thumb wiping chocolate syrup from the corner of my lips and then he sucked it.
That….was HOT.
Then he slowly took off his shirt. Completely.
I froze as I saw it.
His entire chest, neck, and even his back were covered in lipstick marks. Some scratches too.
My jaw dropped, “I…. I did that?”
He spread his arms like a victim showing evidence in court, “This is your very disciplined drunk self did this to innocent me.”
I coughed, eyes glued to the mess I had made.
Then I don’t know why, but the words just slipped out, “This shade looks gorgeous on you. My lipstick suits your skin perfectly.”
Did I just compliment my own artwork? Wow. Genius.
He chuckled softly, shaking his head.
“Maine sach me kuch kiya tha?” I asked, still in shock.
“Izzat looti thi meri,” he said dramatically. “Tumhe pata hai kitni mushkil se maine apni izzat bachayi?”
I snorted into my juice. Wow. This man should win an Oscar for Best Performance.
“Now finish that fruit first, then pancakes,” he ordered calmly.
I mimicked his serious tone under my breath but still obeyed like a good kid.
Halfway through, another flashback slammed into me-me dancing, me kissing him, me asking that EMBARRASSING question….ugh.
What The Actual F-i mean Duck??!!!!
“Noooooo,” I groaned dramatically, covering my face.
He leaned closer, smirking, “So, your memory has started playing the replay?”
I nodded miserably. Ground, please swallow me right now.
He whispered in my ear, “By the way, I don’t have any problem down there. Everything’s perfectly fine. You don’t know how hard it is to control myself. And I can’t wait for you…..”
My pancake dropped from my hand. My entire soul transferred itself into another dimension. Before he could say anything i put the pancake piece in his mouth.
Then this idiot started burst into laughing.
“Beedi jalaile jaigar se piyaaaa….Jigar maa badi aag hai…” he hummed, strolling back to the kitchen. Singing that iconic tune.
Why, Ruhanika? Why do you always embarrass yourself like this?
Ahhh…I finished my pancake, still cringing at the memories.
After breakfast, I helped with the dishes to distract myself from dying of shame.
But of course, he stood behind me, mimicking every nonsense I said yesterday, word for word.
Then he slid his arms around me, whispering, “Don’t you think you deserve punishment for the sweet torture you gave me?”
I froze, holding the wet plate.
“What?” I squeaked.
He leaned closer.
“Inside the hall,” he whispered, and walked away.
Wait. What?
I sighed, banging my head lightly on the cupboard. Why am I even in love with this chimpanzee?
After finishing the dishes, I followed him to the hall. He was sitting on the couch, scrolling his phone like nothing happened. I rolled my eyes.
Yep, this man is definitely planning something. I glared at him suspiciously.
“Now tell me?” I snapped, glaring at him as though I could burn holes into his smug face.
Vihaan smirked, that wicked curve of his mouth that always made me want to both strangle and kiss him.
And now he held something that made my stomach drop.
That diary. But i hide it.
He hold it like a weapon, “I found something.”
My pulse spiked, “How…how did you…”
But before I could grab it, his hand caught my waist, dragging me against him.
His thumb brushed over me so casually.
My stomach twisted in something worse…something warmer.
“So you hated me this much?” he teased, eyes glinting with mischief. “Filled the whole thing with curses, complaints…. pure, delicious rage?”
I closed my eyes and tried to act confidently, “so what? I hated you. I hated you like a mosquito bite in the middle of a monsoon. Like a tangled necklace I can’t cut off. Like…etc etc.”
His smirk deepened as he pulled me towards him, “Good. Read it aloud. While I do things to make you feel the opposite.”
Why was I sitting on his lap? My fingers trembled around the diary, and yet I opened it.
His chest was solid behind me, his breath grazing my ear. I hated the way my skin burned just from being this close.
I opened the first page.
“I hate Vihaan Raichand,” I spat, every word.
His lips brushed my jawline, hot and maddening. My pulse skipped. I wanted to shove him away but my traitor body shivered.
“You hated me… yet you are here. Shivering. Squirming. Saying my name like it belongs to you.”
God, he was right. My voice sounded weak even to myself.
I flipped a page with shaking fingers.
“He is arrogant, a loud-brained glory hog, like a stain that won’t wash out no matter how hard I scrub, like the plague itself, always smirking, ruining every goddamn thing I try to do.”
His mouth pressed to my shoulder, teeth grazing, nipping until my breath caught. My heart pounded against my ribs.
It feels good.
“Arrogant, you say? But still I am the center of your diary. The center of your thoughts,” He continued.
I shoved his shoulder weakly. Trying to calm my rating heart beat.
“He mocks me. He is infuriating. I want to shove a dictionary down his throat and light it on fire,” I read another page.
He chuckled, low, vibrating against my skin as he kissed down my collarbone, “Maybe you should shove your tongue down instead. Seems more effective.”
Heat shot straight through me. I hated that my toes curled, that my fingers wanted to grip his shirt and made him laid down innthe couch on top of him-No. Stop your thoughts Ruhanika.
“Vih-aan!” I shrieked, but the word melted into a moan when his lips sucked at the tender skin just above my chest.
His hands slid lower, resting on my thighs, thumbs stroking dangerously close to where I burned. His mouth pressed to the side of my neck, sucking until I tipped my head back helplessly against his shoulder.
Damn it. My legs tightened over his, my back arching against his chest, as if begging for more.
I raised my voice, almost shrieking the words to hide my own panting, “He beats me at stupid test, then brags, dances like a jackal. Idiot. I curse him to the seventh circle of hell and back, and wish…ugh…I wish I would never see him.”
“Say it louder,” he demanded, his hand sliding higher along my thigh. My stomach flipped. “Say it while I make sure you feel how much your curses excite me.”
I tried to stand but he yanked me back, his mouth crashing onto mine, silencing every thought. His kiss was hard, bruising, and overwhelming.
He forced me down onto his lap, facing him now. My arms curled around his torso, fists pounding against his chest, then betraying me, clutching at his shirt, dragging him closer. And I kissed him back.
I broke away, panting. “I wish he would rot in a dungeon made of sticky, rotting fungus, choking him with every breath.”
His lips dragged down my throat, hot and wet.
“Rot?” he murmured, sucking a mark onto my skin. “You mean melt. You are melting in my hands, Ruh.”
My eyes fluttered shut. I hated how right he was. My body felt like wax under fire.
His fingers pushed higher along my thigh, and I gasped, nails biting into his shoulder. His other hand traced the arch of my spine, pulling me tighter against him.
I yanked at his hair, desperate to anchor myself.
“Anything else?” He asked smirking at me.
I broke away, gasping for air, lips swollen from his kiss.
My voice came out hoarse, trembling, “May his tongue catch fire every time he speak my name.”
His mouth hovered over mine, breath hot, his smirk unbearable.
“Fire?”he murmured, his tongue flicking against my lip before plunging back into my mouth. The kiss burned, wild and consuming, like he was proving my curse true.
The diary slipped from my hands, forgotten, as his lips devoured mine again. His teeth tugged at my bottom lip, his tongue claiming me.
His hands roamed everywhere, sliding under my top, spreading fire over the bare skin of my waist, lower, higher, never enough.
I moaned into his mouth, clawing at his shoulders. Every curse I had ever written now trembled in my throat, breaking apart into gasps.
By the time his mouth left mine, trailing down my neck to my chest, I realized the truth that made my whole body burn hotter than his kisses.
His lips moved slowly, deliberately, leaving a path of heat across my skin. My hands found his hair, tugging hard, but instead of pushing him away, I only pulled him closer as he pressed me back against the couch.
He hovered over me, and I shamelessly dragged him down. My lips found his again, and I kissed him with all the passion left in my oxygen-deprived body. His hands slid beneath my shirt, his touch warm and deliberate as he traced over my waist and spine, setting my body on fire.
His skin burned beneath my fingertips, and mine wasn’t doing any better.
But then, the heat shifted. His lips softened against mine, slowing into something gentler, lingering, unhurried.
What began as fire ended in a soft kiss that left me breathless.
And then-
“Akshat, why do we always find our kids in these situations?”
A voice. A very familiar voice.
Vihaan pulled tucking the ear behind me still confused, he whispered, “I think…I heard my dad’s voice.” .
“I think…. me too,” I mumbled, eyes still closed as i sighed.
But.
Then my eyes snapped open. He looked at me. I looked at him. As we realised.
“Shit,” we both muttered.
“I locked the door,” he murmured.
“Idiot they have a spare key” I said hitting his arm slightly.
He nodded as if understanding.
“Ab kya karein?” I whispered, panicking so hard my palms were sweating.
“I didn’t even prepare a script,” Vihaan hissed and buried his face in my neck like some scared child.
And just when I thought it couldn’t get worse-
“I am taking Atharv in his room, he slept on the way….WHAT THE F-” Kunal’s voice boomed.
Vihaan almost rolled off the couch while I scrambled to the side, barely saved by the armrest of the couch. As i am not clearly visible to everyone.
My heart was beating faster than a washing machine in spin mode.
Vihaan jumped up, hands raised. I looked at him, so did he.
“Can you all please…. just turn around for a second?” He asked nervously.
Silence. But everyone actually turned.
He quickly leaned down, adjusted my nightshirt properly with shaky fingers, and let my hair loose to hide the marks on my neck. My face was burning.
I went to my room immediately and changed into something which can cover me and those marks. And prepared mentally to face another drama.
I changed quickly and walked into the hall. He stood stiffly beside me like a guilty schoolboy, while I kept my head down, praying the floor would open and swallow me.
The second i stood beside him, Dad exploded, “WHAT were you trying to do with my daughter? Didn’t I warn you to stay at least a kilometer away from her?!”
“First explain why you are here with my sister?” Kunal bhai yelled, voice like a megaphone.
“They both are going to eat me alive,” Vihaan muttered under his breath.
“Don’t worry, I’ll save you,” I whispered back, though my knees were literally shaking.
He looked at me with puppy eyes.
“Aww, I love you so much-” He leaned forward to kiss my forehead but froze midair.
I glared at him.
“Right. The situation is kinda serious,” he muttered.
Idiot.
Adhya mam’s calm but scary voice cut in, “Vihu, what is this?”
“Mumma, it wasn’t like that-” he stammered, looking like he might cry.
“Ruhanika, come here,” kunal bhai asked.
I glanced at Vihaan and he gave me the classic help-me look.
Guess we both need help?
“Maybe we should all sit and talk,” Prisha bhabhi said, sounding like the only sane person in the room. “Kunal, take Atharv to the room and put pillows on both sides.”
Kunal bhai stormed away, muttering, god knows what?
I was about to sit down when Prisha bhabhi leaned close and whispered, “Seriously, Ruhanika? The couch? bedroom is right there. Next time, lock the door and be smart about it. I am saying this from experience.”
My eyes widened.
“Bhabhi!” I whispered, horrified.
My niece was asleep in her arms. God, please let her be in deep sleep or she will be traumatized for life because apparently her mother has no filter.
Like sister Like brother.
Vihaan sat beside me, leaving enough space for three people between us. Dad’s glare was so sharp I thought lasers would shoot out of his eyes.
Kunal bhai came back, sat right in front of us, arms crossed, death glare locked.
“How dare you get this close to my sister?” he said strictly.
Vihaan didn’t even look at him. Instead, he turned to me with a helpless expression like save me.
We both sighed and shuffled closer to each other until only a small gap was left. Bhai narrowed his eyes but didn’t say anything.
“We… I mean, we can explain,” we both blurted together and then laughed nervously. Perfect comedy timing.
“What were you both doing?” Dad asked sharply.
“I can’t explain in detail, it’s personal things,” Vihaan answered bluntly.
I coughed hard. Dad looked like he was about to faint.
“Ruhanika,” Bhai called me, shocked.
“Offo! We weren’t doing anything. Just having some close moments together,” I replied, flipping my hair dramatically.
Seriously, he is overreacting so much. Forgetting what he had done in his time.
Yuvraaj uncle folded his arms, “Let me guess. You both are dating. You both want to get married. Because clearly, you can’t even stay apart for a second.”
“Waah, Dad. How do you know?” Vihaan asked, impressed. I even looked at him.
Uncle gave him the most fake smile ever.
“Because we have SEEN this before,” He glared at Kunal bhai and Prisha bhabhi, who instantly cleared their throats and avoided eye contact.
History repeating.
“Didn’t I tell you to keep your distance from my daughter?” Dad shot again.
“Uncle…what do I even say? I swear, I can’t stay away from your daughter. Not for a single second. You have no idea how restless I get at night… I can’t even sleep without her… or, well, without having her close-” Vihaan said dramatically, closing his eyes but soon realised what he had uttered.
I wanted to facepalm.
“Shut up, you idiot. Do you want to die today?” I muttered under my breath.
“Do you have NO shame?” Kunal roared. “She is my little sister”
Vihaan smirked, leaning back to the couch, and said, “Shame? If I had no shame, bhai….you would already be a mamu by now.”
I slapped my forehead. Kunal bhai glared at him muttering some curses.
I pinch him to keep his mouth shut.
Yuvraj uncle pointed at him like a judge, “Since when is this going on?”
I cleared my throat, but Vihaan proudly held my hand, “More than seven years.”
Uncle gasped in shock. His face was full of fear.
But everyone else looked neutral. No other emotion. Wh??
Wait…don’t tell me….it’s not what I am thinking, right?
He looked at me, and we both realized.
“Don’t tell me you all know?” I whispered.
Mumma cleared his throat, “You already know that your father figured it out eventually. I found out because Adhya told me. Prisha always knew, but your brother refuses to accept it, even though he saw many hints. He is stubborn you know.”
“Yes, because I don’t want him to be with my sister,” Kunal bhai shook his head.
I wanted to disappear.
“Chill, jiju. You are married to my sister. Did I say anything? NO. So just calm down, or your robot parts will fall apart,” he said, smirking at him.
“Vihaan, keep your mouth shut. Always saying nonsense,” I turned to him, whispered.
He pouted but eventually nodded.
Uncle looked at us, confused as he said, “How come I never knew?”
“Because you are getting old, sasur ji,” Kunal bhai muttered.
Yuvraaj uncle glared “Bahut bolne nhi lagein hain aap, damad ji. One more word and I’ll take my pri back with our tornado and tsunami.”
Kunal straightened instantly.
“Maine kaha kuch bola?” he said straight looking at him.
Adhya mam and Mumma laughed, “We always said our families would become one. Dekh lo, kids fulfilled our dream!”
“Dream? This is a nightmare,” bhai muttered in anger to which prisha bhabhi glared at him.
“Kuch kaha, damad ji?” Uncle asked again.
“Aapke hote main kuch keh sakta hoon?” Kunal muttered like a schoolkid.
Beside me, Vihaan was shaking.
“Why are you shaking now?” I whispered, teasing.
“Your dad is too quiet. I am not getting good vibes,” he whispered back.
I looked at Dad. Yup, I was scared too.
Adhya mam spoke gently, her voice calm and warm, “Let’s hear what the kids want.”
All eyes turned toward me. My heart was pounding.
“Ruhanika…Vihaan?” she asked softly.
I cleared my throat, feeling Vihaan squeeze my hand.
“Yes…we want to marry,” I said quietly at first, then louder, “We want to spend our lives together.”
Kunal bhai immediately whined, “Why?”
I took a deep breath. “Because I love him. I have loved him for years, and I can’t imagine my life without him. He makes me happy, he makes me feel safe. I want to be with him forever.”
Vihaan looked at me, his eyes steady, then turned to everyone, “And I love her more than anything. She is my Ruh. I want to marry her, take care of her, and be there for her every day.”
Yuvraj uncle leaned forward, a faint smile on his face, “So, you are saying you’re ready to commit to each other for life?”
“Yes,” we said together, squeezing each other’s hands.
Mom’s eyes glistened. “Ruhanika, do you truly feel this way?”
I nodded firmly, “Yes, Mumma. With all my heart.”
Kunal bhai, still frowning, asked, “And you? Are you sure? I want to make sure no one ever hurts my sister, not even a little.”
Vihaan took a deep breath, looking at me first, then back at bhai, “I have never been more sure of anything in my life. I’ll protect her, support her, and love her, every single day.”
I glanced at Kunal and added softly, “Bhai…he is so good. He really is. And i really love him a lot.”
Kunal just gave a half-hearted nod.
“Hmm,” he murmured, still trying to act tough but letting a small sign of approval show.
Yuvraj uncle chuckled quietly, “Looks like you both really mean it.”
I squeezed Vihaan’s hand, smiling.
There was a pause. The room felt warm and quiet. Everyone could see the love and honesty between us. Mom smiled, Adhya mam nodded, Prisha bhabhi whispered, “Finally….” and even Kunal bhai’s arms relaxed slightly.
Then Dad cleared his throat, standing up.
His expression was calm but serious, as he looked at me.
Dad cleared his throat and stood up, his expression serious but not harsh. His eyes softened slightly as they fell on me.
“I want to have a talk-” he began.
Vihaan let out a long, dramatic sigh. “These are the bad vibes I was feeling. I am not ready for a lecture,” he muttered, and I gave his hand a small reassuring squeeze as he shifted nervously.
Dad’s voice became firmer, but still gentle, “To my daughter…”
We both froze.
He wanted to talk to me.
“Ruhanika…” he said slowly, his tone measured but kind. “Come to the study room. I want to talk to you.”
My heart skipped a beat. Vihaan’s hand tightened around mine, giving me a quiet, grounding warmth.
I straightened up, feeling a mix of nervousness and anticipation. “Yes.”
I walked toward the study and opened the door.
Vihaan followed quietly, leaning close to whispering, “I am right here. Don’t worry.”
Dad glanced at him briefly.
“Please… don’t scold her. Talk gently. She doesn’t like when someone raises their voices,” he said calmly, his tone carrying both warning and care.
Dad shot him a sharp look. He back stepped looking at me.
Every step I took made my stomach churned in nervous. Dad closed the door, sitting on his chair and looked at me seriously.
“I have always wanted to hear your side,” he began, quietly, almost hesitating. “Years ago, I didn’t ask because I was afraid you would resent me for interfering in your life.”
I nodded, unsure of what to say.
He asked without any hesitation, “Why do you love him?”
I fidgeted with my fingers, my voice barely above a whisper, “Because, he is always been there. Even when I made mistakes, even when I pushed him away…he never left. He waited. He stayed. He didn’t ask for anything in return. He is patient and gentle.”
Dad’s eyes softened, thoughtful, a faint shadow of a smile touching his lips.
I took a slow breath, letting the next words flow softly, almost shyly, “I don’t think there’s a reason that makes sense…I just love him. I love how he sees me, really sees me, even the parts I hide. I love how being with him makes the world feel lighter, how even in silence, I feel safe. We have been apart for seven long years, and I have realized…I can’t imagine life without him. I just… want him. I want us.”
He looked at me quietly, holding my gaze, his expression calm but searching.
The weight of his eyes wasn’t anger-it was care, concern, and a slowly growing understanding.
“I need to know that this is truly what you want, and that you both understand the responsibilities that come with love and marriage,” he said softly, steady, as if carefully testing the truth in my words.
I nodded, my voice soft but firm, carrying all the emotion I felt. “Yes, Dad. I want this. I want him. I want to build a life with him, to face everything…joy, struggles, quiet moments…together. I want to love him completely and be loved completely in return.”
He studied my face for a long moment, letting the silence stretch, feeling the honesty and emotion in my words.
Then he exhaled slowly, ” I can see how serious you are. We will talk everything through, but I trust that you mean this.”
I swallowed, feeling a warmth settle in my chest, soft and gentle. “Thank you, Dad,” I whispered, my words tender.
He stood up and i hugged him as he caressed my head, his gesture protective and gentle.
“I just want you to be happy and safe,” he said quietly.
I nodded, feeling both nervous and comforted.
I came outside and saw Yuvraaj uncle standing there, listening quietly. Dad shook his head slightly.
Everyone looked a little tense as we stepped out.
“I don’t have a problem with them getting married,” Dad declared.
Everyone jumped with excitement….well except my brother, who stayed grumpy as always.
Mumma and Adhya mam immediately hugged each other, “Finally, they are going to marry!”
I looked at Vihaan, eyes wide.
“What?” I asked him to nudge his shoulder.
“I might faint right now,” he said dramatically.
I laughed, shaking my head, while everyone was busy celebrating and my brother stayed stubbornly grumpy.
I leaned over and kissed Vihaan’s cheek. His neck turned pink as i giggled looking at his reaction.
“But wait,” Adhya mam suddenly said.
“Did you propose to Ruhanika?”
Vihaan scratched the back of his neck.
“Not yet,” he admitted with a sheepish smile.
“Kaisa nalayak beta hai mera…. bilkul apne baap par gaya hai,” she said, hitting her head dramatically.
“Don’t compare me with this nalayak ” Yuvraaj uncle shouted, playfully throwing a warning glance at Vihaan.
“You are not marrying,” she added firmly, and everyone turned to look at her.
“Until you propose to my daughter-in-law properly, you don’t deserve her,” she said, planting a soft kiss on my forehead.
I felt a little shy and awkward. As everyone nodded.
“Yes,” Vihaan said hugging me close.
I went over to my brother.
“Don’t be grumpy,” I said, hugging him.
He hugged me back, “You are happy?”
I nodded, “More than happy.”
And just like that, it finally ended. I couldn’t believe it….our whole family agreed, and everything felt…perfect.
β’β’β’β’β’
Few Weeks Later-
It’s been a few weeks since that incident.
And here I am stuck in the hospital, drowning in overtime. Great, right?
Huff!!
On the brighter side, Vihaan’s probation period finally ended. He had his final presentation weeks ago, and guess what? The client actually loved his idea. His game is officially set to release, not just a one-off, but the first of a whole series.
Honestly, that man really does love games.
But that’s the thing about game developers, they breathe stories into pixels. They spend hours building characters, crafting levels, designing plots that pull you in…. and Vihaan?
He’s the kind of person who won’t sleep until he’s fixed even the tiniest bug. Sometimes I wonder if he loves coding more than me.
Okay, maybe just a little bit more. But I forgive him.
And today, of all days, his big release is happening. I was packing my bag, ready to leave work when-
“Congratulations, my unique species of chimpanzee,” I said, smirking.
“Thanks, meri Ruh,” he replied so casually.
“So? How are you feeling?” I asked, walking toward the hospital’s main gate.
“Umm… not good,” he said, his voice low.
“Why?” I chuckled.
“Meri Ruh mere paas nahin hai na,” he whined like a child.
I rolled my eyes. God, this man.
“Aap bolo toh aapke paas aa jaayegi,” I whispered, careful not to draw attention in the corridor.
“Really?” His voice perked up instantly.
“Want to try?” I teased him, throwing in a challenge.
“Then get ready,” he suddenly said.
“But… why?” I asked, suspicious.
“Because we are going on a date,” he replied, stretching the word like it was some grand revelation.
“Date?” I repeated, sliding into my car.
“Yes, meri Ruh… a date,” he continued I can heard some whispers in the background.
“Fine, but…” I started, and he cut me off-
“Make sure you wear that beige-gold dress,” he said, his tone laced with excitement.
I groaned, “Vihaan, I know you really love that dress…but you know I don’t fit into that dress anymore.”
“I customised it for you. Same shade, same design. Just wear it. And…. don’t forget your favorite lipstick,” I hear his voice from other side.
I swear, this man. He knows me too well.
I drove home, went straight to my room, and there it was the beige-gold dress.
The same color, the same feel. For a second, all my memories came rushing back.
My hands hesitated but then I smiled.
I got ready. Light makeup, my favorite lipstick, a little blush, mascara, and yes curled my hair just the way I used to.
I called him, “You nasty chimpanzee, I am ready. But you forgot to send the address.”
He chuckled softly, “I’ll send it. But Ruh, get ready for an adventure.”
“Adventure? What now-“
“A fun game,” he cut me off before I could finish, and then the call ended.
“Vihaan-” I huffed, but it was too late.
I stared at my reflection. Beige-gold eyeshadow, my favorite lipstick, and that ridiculous smile creeping across my face. Ugh. Chimpanzee.
I grabbed my keys and drove toward the address he finally sent.
It led me to an empty road. My phone buzzed with a message:
“Find a star, it will guide your way.”
I got out and walked along the footpath. Bougainvillea petals had fallen everywhere, painting the ground in pink and purple. I smiled softly. The petals reminded me of our school garden the one Vihaan and I used to sit the corner of the school playground.
I walked and look at the building.
Why this place? My mind has a lot of questions as I saw our school in front of me.
Then I saw, a small glowing star, just like the one in the picture he had sent.
I picked it up, and tucked behind it was an envelope.
My heart skipped a beat. The note inside read:
“Let’s start from the start.”
I got another call from him.
“Welcome, Ruh. You’ll be given riddles. Solve them, reach the place. You already have one star, find six more”
“Vihaan, what is this?” I asked.
“Your time starts now,” he said and hung up.
I looked at the first note sticking out from the envelope:
“Where the chalk whispered secrets,
and the echoes of laughter hid in corners, where lessons were learned,
and secret glances were stolen,
your first star waits where memories began.”
Think Ruhanika.
Chalk.
Laughter.
Lessons.
The classroom.
Our classroom.
I walked through the gates, memories flooding back like old photographs, the laughter, the playground, the creation area. But the main gate was closed. I sighed and walked to the back door, going inside. The walls held so many memories.
I climbed to the third floor, my heart racing as I reached our classroom.
The smell of books and chalk dust.
Everything had changed, new paint, some desks replaced but some things remained.
I went to my seat by the window, where the stars were shining. I looked behind the desk where Vihaan always sat.
I smiled. Realizing how much time has passed.
After a minute, I stood and walked to the teacher’s desk. Another star glowed softly. My fingers brushed it, and I laughed quietly.
The envelope kept and i opened the note that read:
“This is where I saw you, pretending to scribble, while secretly owning my whole attention. The way you sit on the window seat, hair catching the sunlight,
then turned behind, looking at me with your hazel-brown eyes…I knew I lost.
My favorite subject wasn’t on the board… it was you.”
I felt my cheeks heat up. Stupid Vihaan. Always so dramatic. But damn it… my heart was fluttering like it always did around him. I collected my scomd star.
I spotted another note, the next clue:
“Seek the place where balls bounce and sneakers squeak, where games were played and cheers filled the air. Your next star is waiting where the court to come alive”
Ahh.
Balls. Sneakers. Games. Cheers. Court.
Basketball court area.
Damn it, this is easy and fun.
I smiled but i realised this stupid Chimpanzee he could have let me go to the basketball court first.
I reached the basketball court.
It looked new, maybe they renew the area.
But my eyes automatically fell towards the audience area and there it was a glowing star.
Yes.
I sat on one of the chairs and opened it.
The note inside read:
“I don’t remember the score of any game, but I remember you sitting there,
your little notebook opens with the rules written down, watching quietly, cheering me on in your own sweet way.
Every time I scored, I felt your eyes on me, and it made me play better, smile wider, because knowing you were there made everything worth it.
I couldn’t stop thinking how lucky I am to have you in my life.”
A laugh escaped me. I could almost hear my younger self giggling as Vihaan scored the basket.
Damn, he looked so hot while playing basketball. I smiled, feeling that flutter in my chest.
I swear the paper and next clue:
“The quietest place in school,
where books hold knowledge and silence holds memories.”
Easy.
It’s Library. I giggle as I feel so excited.
I tucked the third star safely in my bag and headed straight to the library.
The familiar scent of old books and dust wrapped around me.
Somehow, I just knew the next star would be in the corner where we used to study together….and I was right.
I sat on the chair holding the little star as i held the note.
The note read:
“Silence never felt empty here. Because when you were around, even silence had a heartbeat. I remember how lost you were in your books, and how I got lost in you. What magic did you do? I still don’t understand.
But I knew that day that I wanted to write…write our story together,
so everyone can read it and know what our love truly is.”
I pressed my lips together, holding back the sting in my eyes. Why was he so perfect? Why did he make my heart feel so full and tender?
I carefully tucked the fifth star into my bag and saw the next clue waiting:
“The place where acids meet bases,
where titrations taught patience and careful hands. Your next star is waiting where reactions once sparked.”
I saw it and knew exactly where to go.
Chemistry Lab.
I walked into the chemistry lab.
The familiar smell of chemicals filled the air as I took a deep breath.
I headed straight to the table area, because somehow I just knew where the star would be.
Butterflies danced in my stomach, memories of our moments in this lab flooding back.
There it was the fifth star, glowing softly.
I saw the envelope and take out the note:
“The day I realized what jealousy truly feels like was the day I saw you paying attention to someone else. In that moment, I understood how deeply I care for you, how every part of me belongs only to you, and how even the mention of someone else’s name could irritate me. It was then I knew…my heart has always been yours, and it always will be.”
I held the note in my hands, my fingers trembling slightly.
Reading his words, warmth spread through my chest, jealousy and yet, love so deep, so completely his.
I pressed my lips together, trying not to let the sting of tears escape.
Damn him always knowing exactly how to make me feel every little thing.
I tucked the fifth star into my bag, my mind still lingering on his words.
And then I saw the next clue waiting for me:
“The place where the mic always pauses, where voices rise and fall,
walls hear the applause, and the stage gives confidence. Your next star is waiting there.”
Ah…the auditorium.
I inhaled deeply, feeling the familiar excitement of anticipation and butterflies in my stomach.
Every step toward it reminded me of him, of us, and the story we were writing together…one clue, one memory at a time.
I entered the auditorium, the stage lights dim, casting a soft glow.
I walked slowly toward the stage.
the same stage where we had shared our first dance together.
I could almost feel his hands around me again, the lights softly illuminating us, the music playing in my mind. Memories washed over me, sweet and overwhelming.
And there it was, the sixth star, sitting gently on the wooden floor.
I picked it up, heart racing, and opened the attached envelope.
“That was the place where two amateur dancers first tried to find their rhythm together. Your hazel-brown eyes met mine, full of questions and unspoken feelings, and in that moment, the lyrics of the song, the rhythm of the dance, it felt like they were writing our destiny.And I fell in love with you even more.”
I held the note tighter, swallowing hard. A small, happy smile spread across my face.
I love this man so much.
I pulled out the next clue:
“Ruh, come back to the place where destiny collided.”
I frowned.
Destiny collided?
Where?
I glanced around the glowing stage, trying to remember yet nothing clicked.
My breath caught. Could it really be?
And then it hit me…..a jolt through my chest.
Corridor.
The place where we first met.
I grabbed the sixth star and walked toward the corridor, the darkness stretching ahead.
My foot caught on something, and I stumbled, falling slightly.
But then that familiar scent hit me, and i know who the person is.
“Vihaan can’t you see?” I murmured, steadying myself.
The lights suddenly turned on, flickering softly at first, then glowing fully.
My eyes widened, overwhelmed. The corridor had transformed.
Photos of us lined the walls, fairy lights wrapped around them like glowing constellations.
Above, tiny stars from a hidden projector shimmered across the ceiling, as though the night sky itself had been invited inside.
White orchids spilled down the corners, their fragrance subtle but sweet, blending with the faint scent of roses scattered along the floor.
But there was no one in sight.
My gaze landed on the notice board hanging on the wall.
Usually it said, “Don’t run.”
But this time, it read-“Sometimes you must run…so fate can make you collide.
Someone reads this line. I froze, recognizing the voice as I heard a soft, familiar voice behind me.
I turned, and there he was – Vihaan, dressed impeccably in a tuxedo, crisp white shirt, and the watch I had gifted him years ago, still worn with care.
He knelt beside me, taking my hand in his. My heart stuttered, and my mind froze as the reality of the moment sank in.
In his hand, he held a bouquet of delicate white orchids, interspersed with deep red roses, their fragrance wrapping around us like a private world of our own.
The corridor was dim, stars twinkling faintly above which he hangs definitely.
And his dark chocolate-brown eyes locked onto mine.
“We have been together for more than seven years,” he began softly, his voice steady but filled with emotion.
“We teased each other, argued over silly things, fell in love, broke up, stayed apart, and yet we always found our way back. Every distance, every misunderstanding…it never changed this.”
He squeezed my hand gently holding it in his hand and caressing it slightly, “It’s always been just you and me.”
I felt tears prick my eyes.
I felt a rush of warmth and excitement, my heart fluttering like it could burst, completely lost in the magic of right now.
He took a deep breath, his lips curling into that familiar, comforting smile, “And today…I want to write the final Equation: You + Me = Forever.”
“Dr. Ruhanika Oberoi…Will You Be My Forever?” His voice rang in the quiet corridor, soft yet certain.
He asked, eyes searching for mine, his voice laced with nervousness, “WILL YOU MARRY ME?”
I froze. Words failed me. My hands trembled. Tears spilled down my cheeks, and I couldn’t speak.
Seeing my hesitation, he chuckled nervously, “Ruh…I’ll cook for you. I’ll even make cheesecake. And will stargaze with you. You have no excuse now.”
I laughed, my tears mingling with my smile.
“Will You Marry Your Unique Species Of Chimpanzee?” he teased again, and finally, I nodded.
“YES Mr. Raichand,” I whispered, my voice shaking, yet certain.
His face lit up with pure joy.
Suddenly, poppers went off, and I realized our families and friends were there, peeking from the hall beside the corridor.
Tanya and Yash fumbled with the last poppers, nearly dropping them on each other, while Vani and Sid were cheering loud enough to wake the entire building.
“Arre, Yash. You were supposed to pull it upwards, not at me.” Tanya scolded, brushing bits of confetti off her hair.
“You moved!” Yash argued, trying to cover up, though his sheepish grin gave him away.
Meanwhile, Vani and Sid were in their own world.
“Best angle, best lighting, and perfect background. Sidharth, record properly,” Vani said in all excitement, nudging him.
Sid scoffed, “I am trying, you are the one who is making everything weird.”
And then, Vani whistled loudly.
Miss Ragini, Adhya mam and more teachers who taught us and the principal mam exchanged warm smiles, clearly amused at the chaos.
I glanced at Vihaan, and he winked knowing it had all been his plan.
I held the bouquet, inhaling its fragrance, when I noticed a small box tucked between the roses.
He stood up, opened the box, and took out the pendant a delicate gold star with a tiny gem at its center, glowing softly like a miniature cosmic star.
“Last time I didn’t have much money, so I made a handmade one for you, with bioluminescence,” he said, his eyes warm.
I nodded, mesmerized, as the tiny star seemed to glow against my skin, like it was guiding me. I am still wearing it.
With a soft smile, he removed the old star from around my neck. He wrapped it delicately around my wrist, locking it there with a quiet click.
Then take out the other one.
Then he held the new star pendant close, letting it hover above my chest for a heartbeat before fastening it around me.
“This is your Celestia Star,” he whispered, his voice low and warm, “to carry my heart with you, and let my love light your cosmic skies.”
“I Love You, Ruh” he whispered, hugging me and brushing away my tears.
“I Love You More, Vihaan” I replied, holding him tightly.
The stars above glowed softly, the scent of white orchids filling the air, and all I could feel was him, warm, steady, and mine.
“Can you all turn away, please?” he asked, and everyone respectfully stepped back.
He cupped my face and kissed me gently. I returned it slowly, letting every bit of my heart pour into that kiss. He wrapped his arms around my waist, then pulled back to press a tender kiss on my forehead letting his lips stay there savoring the moment.
After that everyone congratulated us and we walked together to meet our teacher, the principal, and our friends, revisiting classrooms and reliving memories. Every laugh, every glance, every touch reminded us of our journey, from stolen glances to this perfect, unforgettable moment.
And in that corridor, under the stars, surrounded by love and memories, I knew….I had found my forever.
———————————————
Finally Chapter 70!!!
So how was the chapter???
I hope the proposal scene turn out goodπβ¨ i tried to mention their all previous scenes blending it into meaning.
Your favourite scene??
Mine was Ruh’s whole drunk sceneπ€
And that diary-curse romance…lastly the proposal scene I did a lot of work writing that part.
Congratulations Vihaan is becoming father of skully and now penguins π₯ΉAnd was about to become a father of wormy tooπ
Ab bahut saare votes and comments kr denaπ
Kam se kam 1900 votes hi kar do π
Ready for their marriage π€
Enjoy Reading β€οΈ
Stay tuned for further updates….!!!
Bye Cutiepies…!!π
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