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I still couldn’t believe it.
I am married.
We are married now.
The words kept going round in my head, but my heart refused to calm down.
I sneaked a glance at Vihaan again and, without even thinking, reached out to touch his arm-just to make sure this wasn’t a dream.
He caught me doing it, of course, and gave me that deep look with his dark chocolate brown eyes and held my hand brushing his thumb over my palm.
My cheeks instantly heated, and I turned away like nothing happened.
Nine years of waiting. Nine years of growing, of wondering, of wishing. And now…. he is my husband.
My Husband.
Just the word made me want to hide my face in my dupatta.
“Congratulations to you both,” Tanya said, folding her arms and giving Vihaan a sharp look. “And remember, you better take care of her.”
I smirked at him, raising my brows, “You heard that.”
Before he could reply, Yash threw himself into the spotlight, fake-crying and wiping imaginary tears, “My poor brother is gone forever. No more boys trips, no late-night gaming, nothing. From today, his only duty is carrying shopping bags!”
I laughed and shook my head.
“And no more listening to his weird talks, that’s a relief,” Sid added, rolling his eyes.
Vihaan glared, “Shut up, Sid.”
“Don’t worry, Ruh,” Vani leaned toward me and said loudly, “if he troubles you, we’ll kidnap him and I’ll personally show him my special punches.”
I giggled and Vihaan sighed muttering under his breath, “she is always ready for a war.”
“Guys, seriously. Stop it. I am already nervous,” Vihaan groaned.
Sid grinned, “Nervous? He was more than nervous. Before the wedding, your dear husband was in another dimension, imagining every single possibility. ‘What if I get late? What if I don’t look perfect? Ruh will scold me.’ “
Everyone burst out laughing. I reached for Vihaan’s hand under the dupatta and raised my eyebrow at him, “You were that scared of me?”
He leaned close and whispered back, “Not of you. But my wife.”
My face grew hot, and I blushed loweing my head.
But Sid wasn’t done, “And guess what? He was muttering to ‘It’s just a wedding…I just need to stay calm… don’t mess this up’ like he was preparing for a boxing match.”
I laughed so hard tears filled my eyes, “Oh my God! I wish I had recorded that.”
Vihaan narrowed his eyes at me and i just chuckled looking at his irritated face.
“Don’t worry, Ruh,” Tanya clapped her hands. “If he dares to misbehave, we’ll file a complaint straight away.”
“Yes, exactly!” I pointed at Vihaan, grinning. “I have a whole squad now.”
“And if you even try to trouble her, bro,” Yash added, smirking, “remember you have got four witnesses ready against you.”
Sid raised his hand proudly, “And I have been keeping records since day one.”
Everyone cracked up while Vihaan groaned, burying his face in his palm, “God, you all are cheaters, leaving me alone. At least one of you should be on my side.”
That only made the laughter louder.
I tugged on his sleeve, whispering, “Get used to it, husband. This is your life now.”
He glanced at me, eyes softening, and my stomach flipped. Then, out of nowhere, he leaned close to my ear and murmured so only I could hear,
“Blush all you want, Ruh. You are stuck with me now for your information being stuck with me has its rewards and tonight, I plan to collect every single one.”
My whole face went red.
This man has no shame.
I shoved his arm lightly and hissed, “Shut up.”
Thank God no one heard.
At least, I thought so until I heard someone clear their throat.
I looked up and saw Raj standing nearby, dressed neatly in a kurta.
“I am happy you came,” I said with a smile.
“You are looking really pretty, Ruhii ji,” he said shyly.
Vihaan shifted beside me, clearly not thrilled, but stayed quiet.
Raj handed me a small box wrapped in black and brown paper.
“Congratulations to you and you too Vihaan bhaiya.”
Vihaan gave a small smile and patted his head.
“Thank you,” I said, accepting the box. “But this wasn’t needed.”
“I made it for you both, so yeah… it is needed,” Raj said, rubbing the back of his neck nervously.
I smiled at his innocence, “Should I open it now?”
“Yeah, open it,” he said eagerly.
I looked at Vihaan once, then nodded and sat down on the small sitting area beside the pavilion. Carefully unwrapping the neat paper, I opened the box.
A smile spread across my face instantly. Inside was a painting-collage-style, drawn with small scenes from the fair we had all gone to years ago. Rides, stalls, balloons, cotton candy, every little detail was there.
Vihaan leaned forward, “Wait… did you really make this?”
Raj grinned, “Do you even doubt me, langoor bhaiya?”
Vihaan laughed and pulled him into a hug, “You are such an adorable little demon.”
I kept staring at the painting, touched, “You remember all of this? I thought you forget you were just five back then.”
“Not everything,” Raj admitted with a small smile, “but yes I do remember the time spent with both of you.”
I held the painting close, my chest warm.
So much has changed, but some bonds never do.
After all the rituals, blessings, and chaotic laughter, I finally slipped behind the pavilion, feeling exhaustion wrap around me like a warm blanket.
But then I noticed it, Vani and Tanya were missing.
That could only mean one thing-trouble.
I heard Vihaan’s voice, confused, “Where are my shoes?”
I shook my head, trying to look innocent, but inside, I was already laughing. I knew exactly where they were.
Right on cue, Vani, Tanya, and Aashika stepped forward, sly grins plastered on their faces, like mischievous little queens claiming their territory. Aashika slipped behind them, hands folded, looking every bit the general announcing victory.
“Shoes? What shoes, jijuuu?” Vani tilted her head, her voice dripping with fake sweetness.
“Yeah, we didn’t see any shoes,” Tanya added, wiggling her brows as if daring him to react.
From the groom’s side, chaos erupted. Yash groaned dramatically, “Arrey, stop acting. We all know you stole them.”
“Stolen?” Tanya scoffed. “Or maybe I found them because you couldn’t even guard a pair of shoes properly.”
Sid jumped in, arms crossed like a lawyer in court, “And for the record, this is straight-up robbery. We demand justice.”
“Justice?” Aashika laughed. “Siddharth, you couldn’t even spot the thief. If this were a real courtroom, you would be the first one thrown out.”
He coughed looking at Vani where she just smirked.
Varun leaned forward, teasing, “Fine. Tell us the ransom. How much is Vihaan paying for his precious shoes?”
Vihaan turned to him casually, “Wait, you should at least bargain a little.”
“Sorry, Aashi already bribed me,” Varun said, turning back to stand with Aashika.
She nodded proudly, like he had just declared loyalty to the winning side.
I heard Vihaan mutter beside me, half-amused, half-exasperated, “Everyone’s double-faced.”
Everyone laughed, even Vihaan, who was trying hard to look stern. His eyes found mine, locking for a heartbeat too long.
That smirk appeared the one that always made my stomach flip.
“Enough drama,” Yash announced. “Return the shoes.”
Vani stepped forward like a queen claiming her prize, “Not so fast. These shoes don’t come cheap. Dulhe sahab must pay.”
“How much?” Vihaan asked, eyes narrowing.
“One lakh for each person, including Vani, Tanya and me” Aashika blurted, voice brimming with confidence.
“One lakh? Or in total three lakhs? For shoes?” Sid clutched his chest. “Are they made of gold?”
“Not gold,” Tanya grinned, “but they carried him safely here to our precious friend. That makes it expensive!”
My cheeks heated, but I couldn’t stop laughing. The playful chaos bounced back and forth until Vihaan raised a hand, silencing everyone.
He said, “Tell me Ruh, do you think my shoes are worth in total, three lakh?”
“I mean yes…you married me so yeah,” I replied, and he just sighed like the weight of the world was on his shoulders.
“Fine, keep the shoes then. I just need to step over to the house across,” he said, shrugging like it was the simplest thing in the world.
“Fine, go but remember, my sister isn’t coming with you,” I heard Kunal bhai rolling his eyes at him.
“Why?” he panicked, looking like I just sentenced him to a lifetime in jail.
“You took the whole PS5 from me, remember? Just give the amount the girls are asking like a nice brother in law,” kunal bhai glared at him, and he nodded meekly.
“Well right,” he said, muttering, almost defeated.
“Thanks, bhaiya!” Aashika cheered, giving Kunal bhai a victorious thumbs-up.
Vihaan reached into his pocket, and everyone leaned in, anticipation written all over their faces.
I waited but what?
He pulled out three ten-rupee notes.
What the actual heck?
He handed them over with full drama, like he was presenting the jewels, “Here. Ten rupees each. Go buy some chocobar. Now, give me back my shoes.”
They all looked at him seriously and confused.
I blinked, “Seriously, Vihaan?”
“Don’t tell me chocobar gets expensive. Fifteen? Twenty rupees?” he asked, confused like it is the greatest mystery of the century.
Vani gasped, clutching her heart, “Excuse us. This is outrageous.”
Tanya crossed her arms, mock horror on her face, “We are NOT accepting this!”
“Yes. We need the real amount, jiju! Otherwise, my sister isn’t going with you,” Aashika added, glaring.
Vihaan turned to me with the most innocent face imaginable.
“I thought girls liked chocolate bars,” he said.
I sighed and facepalmed.
Kunal bhai muttered under his breath, “This man I can’t even.”
I leaned close, voice low, teasing, “Vihaan, unless you want to sleep out of our room tonight, you better give them the real ransom. And don’t even think about arguing.”
His breath hitched sharply, he looked at me, half shocked, half helpless, completely undone by my words.
“Ruh….” he whispered, voice rough.
I let my hand slide along his arm slowly, smiling wickedly, under my duppata “hmm, just a little warning. But you know me I always follow through.”
Vihaan’s smirk faltered. Without another word, he pulled out his card and tossed it at the girls.
“Take it. Buy whatever you want. Just give me back my shoes before my wife….actually makes me sleep out of the room,” he said, muttered last sentemce under his breath.
I whsipered, “See? That wasn’t so hard, was it? I only asked nicely.”
“What is this?” Tanya asked.
“Umm this, my dear, is called a credit card,” Vihaan said, flourishing it like it was a magic wand.
“I don’t carry this much cash in my pockets. Just use this, punch in the PIN and tadaa.” He tapped away on his phone and hit send. “Password’s just been delivered to you, straight from your jiju himself.”
The girls shrieked triumphantly, waving the card and i winked at them.
At dinner, I hadn’t eaten much honestly, I wasn’t that hungry but of course, Vihaan had filled my plate so generously that I ended up finishing it anyway.
Now it was time for bidaai.
Just a short walk, literally not more than a minute, and I would d be at my in-laws’ house. Crazy, right? But honestly it felt kind of fun.
Everyone was watching me like I was supposed to wail dramatically. But hello? I wasn’t moving to some faraway city. I was literally just shifting next door.
“Won’t you cry?” Vihaan leaned toward me, as if this was the most natural question in the world.
I blinked at him, “Cry? For walking fifteen steps?”
The people around me chuckled, but my eyes caught two wise men and a little tornado-Dad, my brother, and my nephew, all sulking.
“I thought it was natural,” Vihaan said, shrugging.
“I know,” I sighed, “but I can only cry when I feel… you know…. like I can really come back here whenever I want,” Mumma shook her head at my words, but hugged me anyway.
Meanwhile, the Oberoi men were still sulking dramatically. Dad, my brother, and the tiny tornado were sitting there as if the world had ended.
“Mumma…” I sighed, a little helplessly.
She rolled her eyes.
“Ignore them. They are overacting,” But then she hugged me tighter anyway.
“I wish you all the happiness, and be happy in your married life,” she whispered, and I smiled despite myself.
Still, I couldn’t resist.
I tiptoed over to my three dramatic people, “Okay what’s with the long faces? I’m not moving to Antarctica. I’m literally just next door.”
“But it won’t be the same,” Bhai said, looking downward as if he will cry.
My brother pouted, “No more late-night ice cream walks, no one will be coming to me whenever she feels sad or when I am feeling low.”
Aww.
Dad sighed drmaatically, “I won’t be able to catch you sneaking cheesecake in the middle of the night anymore.”
I glanced at him, feeling my eyes sting a little.
Before I could say anything, my nephew piped up with all the betrayal a toddler could muster, “And now no one will save me when I break things!”
This little guy… I couldn’t help it. The three of them sighed in perfect unison, like it shattered their entire world.
“Ugh, stop it,” I said, laughing through the tears threatening to fall. “You’re making me emotional. I’m literally moving a door away, not to another planet.”
“But things will change,” Dad said quietly, his voice softer now, the drama melting into real warmth.
That one line got me. I pulled all three of them into a big, squishy hug, “I’ll miss you guys so much.”
“You know you can come here whenever you feel low, and we can go for an ice cream walk,” Bhai said, side-hugging me and pressing a kiss to my forehead.
“I’ll make cheesecake for you and keep it stocked but still, you’re not allowed to eat it all at once, considering your health,” Dad said, pretending to scold me, and I nodded, grinning as he hesitated before hugging me properly.
“And I’ll save you from Dadu whenever you break things!” my nephew shouted proudly.
“My baby,” I whispered, picking him up and kissing his cheek. He hugged me tight, and I laughed, half-teary, half-amused.
“Fine, fine. But seriously…please stop sulking now.”
Just as I was trying to calm them, Yuvraaj uncle stepped forward. His eyes were steady and kind.
“Don’t worry, Akshat,” he said softly. “She”s our family now. We will all take care of her.”
I blinked, a little choked up, and he gave me a reassuring smile.
Adhya mumma walked closer and rested her hand gently on my shoulder, “Yes, beta. We’ll care for you, guide you, and support you just like you were ours from the very beginning.”
A lump formed in my throat, “Thank you… that means so much.”
She nodded and squeezed my shoulder, “Whenever you feel lost, whenever you feel unsure… we are here. You’re not alone, Ruhanika. You never will be.”
Vihaan slipped his hand into mine, his fingers closing tightly around mine, “See? You’re safe here with all of us.”
I let out a soft sigh, finally feeling the tension in my ease.
Dad stood up, walked toward Vihaan, and placed a firm hand on his shoulder, “Take care of my daughter….. and yourself too.”
Vihaan nodded, his expression serious, “Always, Uncle.”
Then Kunal bhai cleared his throat loudly. Vihaan looked at him, and in seconds both of them were glaring at each other.
Like… seriously?
But then Bhai stepped forward and hugged Vihaan.
My jaw nearly dropped.
I swear, someone should mark today on the calendar, because this feels nothing short of a miracle.
Everyone around us almost gasped at the scene.
Because no one saw this coming.
“You are nice…. I mean, not that nice. You are annoying. I don’t like you. But my sister loves you, so it means you are nice,” Bhai said, jumbling his words together.
What is he even saying?
Even I struggled to make sense of it.
Vihaan’s eyes went wide. Before he could say anything, Bhai pulled back and looked straight at him, “Don’t ever hurt my little sister.”
“I will never,” Vihaan said without hesitation.
He leaned close to my ear, lowering his voice, “Ruh, I’m sure your brother is possessed. First, he smiled at me and then he hugged me.”
I chuckled softly, trying not to laugh too loud, “he likes you just not very expressive.”
Vihaan turned to Kunal bhai, a small grin tugging at his lips. “I knew it, Kunal jiju. You never really hated me.”
Bhai rolled his eyes. “Don’t flatter yourself. You’re not worth me wasting that much energy to like or hate you.”
I laughed openly, while Vihaan leaned in closer and whispered, “He’s still kadwa karela.”
I nodded quickly, biting my lip to keep from giggling again.
I glanced at Vihaan, and he flashed me a smile that made my heart skip hard in my chest.
Happy, nervous, excited-everything tangled inside me at once. It felt like stepping into a brand-new world.
And then, out of nowhere, he bent down and scooped me into his arms.
“Wait…what are you doing?” I gasped, clutching his shoulders.
“Carrying my wife home,” he said simply, winking.
The crowd went wild-hooting, clapping, teasing like this was the highlight of the wedding. My cheeks heated, but I couldn’t stop smiling.
“Chalein, Mrs. Ruhanika Vihaan Raichand?”
He asked, his voice teasing yet oddly gentle.
My heart tumbled in my chest, but I forced myself to smirk, looping my arms around his neck.
“Chaliye, Mr. Raichand.”
He chuckled low, hugging me tighter as he carried me next door-literally next door.
Wow.
Such distance. Emotional, indeed.
Up above, Yash and Sid were lighting fireworks on the terrace. The sky exploded in color, like stars scattering across it just for us.
“Liked it?” Vihaan asked, watching me instead of the fireworks.
“Liked it?” I teased, raising a brow. “I loved it. Feels like you bribed the universe for this.”
“Maybe I did,” he said smoothly, that famous smirk tugging his lips.
Of course he did. Typical Vihaan answer.
Then he leaned to give a quick kiss on my cheek.
Someone stop him from melting my knees in public.
He slowed near the doorstep, and for one insane second, all I wanted was to kiss him. Right there. In front of everyone. But I held back, saving that storm for when we were alone.
Vihaan finally set me down.
Adhya Mumma welcomed us warmly at the door, performing the rituals and kissing my forehead, “Welcome home, Ruhanika.”
My chest tightened as I smiled and stepped in beside Vihaan.
Inside, Prisha bhabhi guided me to the alta ritual and together we walked forward, my footprints trailing behind us like soft marks of a new beginning.
The house glowed with warm lights, fresh flowers everywhere, and the faint scent of roses and lilies in the air.
Beautiful, yes.
But my brain? Running on 2% battery.
“Tired?” Vihaan murmured, sliding his hand into mine. His thumb lazily stroked over my palm, making me want to sink right into him.
“Exhausted,” I sighed dramatically. “If I fall asleep standing, don’t blame me.”
He laughed, reaching up to fix my veil that had slipped sideways. His fingers brushed my cheek, and I gave him a sleepy smile.
Just then, Mahek Maasi arrived with a bunch of cousins and relatives trailing behind, all buzzing with excitement. A silver bowl filled with water and floating rose petals was placed between us, its surface glistening under the lights. In seconds, everyone crowded around, grinning and whispering like spectators at a match.
“Rules are simple,” Mahek maasi announced, clapping. “Whoever finds the ring first wins.”
Prisha bhabhi leaned close, eyes sparkling, “And don’t let him win, Ruhanika. If you do, he’ll never stop teasing you.”
Yuvraaj uncle chuckled, “Formality ke liye, I’m in my son’s team. But honestly, he’s already hopeless, so he needs me for motivation.”
Vihaan leaned closer, his breath brushing my ear, “Ready, Mrs. Raichand?”
I tilted my chin, whispering, “More than ready, Mr. Raichand. Try not to cry when you lose.”
His smirk deepened, “Lose? Impossible. My lucky charm is right in front of me.”
His gaze deliberately dipped lower, and my face heated instantly as he looked straight into my eyes.
Before I could retort, Mahek maasi clapped her hands, “Chalo, start!”
We dipped our hands into the cool water together. His fingers instantly brushed mine. I yanked them away.
“No cheating,” I whispered under my breath which is only audible to him.
“Cheating?” he whispered, brushing against me again, this time deliberately slow. “No, I’m just savoring the perks of being your husband.”
My cheeks turned into crimson, “Focus, Vihaan.”
“I am focused,” he murmured, voice laced with amusement. His thumb stroked the side of my finger under the water, sending sparks through me. “Just not on the ring.”
“Vihaan,” I hissed, trying to pull away, but he caught my wrist, holding me there for a bit longer than necessary.
Around us, the family was hooting and cheering, shouting tips and laughing.
But under the water, it felt like just the two of us, him teasing and me burning.
“Tick tock, Mrs. Raichand,” he teased, lips curving. “Still searching?”
“You’re distracting me,” I shot back, narrowing my eyes.
“Good,” he whispered. “That’s the plan.”
I bit down a smile, forcing myself to search quickly. Then suddenly, I felt it-the smooth band of the ring. Before I could grab it, his fingers brushed mine again, sliding it into my finger.
My eyes flew up to his. He was already smirking.
“Got it?” he murmured, voice thick with meaning.
“Wait-you just-” I started, but he gave the tiniest shake of his head, lips curving knowingly.
“Time’s up,” Mahek maasi called.
I lifted my hand slowly, droplets sliding down my wrist, and gasps filled the room.
The ring gleamed in my palm and on my finger.
Yuvraaj uncle clapped, and laughed, “Wah, wah! That’s indeed my son.”
Vihana just smirked and i rolled my eyes at him.
The whole room hooted, clapped, teased. My face was on fire.
“You really-” I began, glaring at Vihaan.
He just winked, smug as ever.
I slipped the ring onto his finger, and everyone cheered again.
“Well,” Mahek maasi said dramatically, “it’s complicated to tell who actually won.”
Everyone laughed, and Vihaan leaned closer, whispering so only I could hear, “We both know who the real winner is.”
I slid the ring onto Vihaan’s finger, my face hot, my heart racing.
He leaned close, his lips nearly brushing my ear, and whispered so only I could hear, “Congratulations, Mrs. Raichand. You found the ring but tonight, you’ll be finding a lot more.”
My breath caught. My eyes shot to his, and he just winked, looking smug.
I wanted to yell at him. And kiss him. Both.
After a while of chatting with Mahek maasi’s friends and meeting a few distant cousins of Vihaan, the evening had finally wound down.
It was late, the lights in the hall glowing softer, when Mahek maasi suddenly cleared her throat in that dramatic way of hers.
“Alright, lovebirds time for you two to go.”
Both of us turned to look at her.
“Go where?” Vihaan asked, rubbing the back of his neck, clearly tired but curious.
“To your house,” she said innocently, pushing a set of keys across the table.
I blinked, “Our house?”
“Yes, yes! Think of it as a night drive first, and then some time alone. A few relatives are staying here, so for your personal time, you should go, watch movies, eat sweets, and enjoy yourselves. And since that house? I never use it, so it’s yours from now on. And since no one lives in that building, there’ll be no disturbances and no noise.”
She winked at me shamelessly, and I quickly looked down, my cheeks heating.
Vihaan groaned, “Maasi, seriously, do you have no filter?”
She only grinned wider, “None at all. That’s why I’m having fun.”
Then, with a playful flourish, she added, “The top floor’s all yours. No neighbors, no family around so you don’t need to worry if anyone overhears anything.”
My jaw dropped, “Maasi!”
He buried his face in his palm, his ears turning pink, “You are unbelievable.”
Before either of us could argue, she pressed the car keys into my hand, “Now go and enjoy.”
She smiled at me reassuringly and i nodded as i turned to Vihaan.
I smirked at him, twirling the keys around my finger, “Well, Mr. Raichand, shall we?”
He lifted a brow, his lips curving into a teasing smile.
“As you say, Mrs. Raichand,” He stood, offering me his hand with an exaggerated bow.
I giggled as I slipped my hand into his.
Just then, Adhya mumma stepped forward, hugging me warmly.
“Drive safe, sweetheart.” Then she turned to Vihaan with sternness. “Take care of her and yourself too. And don’t you dare to put adventure ideas into her head, understood?”
“Yes, Mumma,” he muttered, looking like a obedient teenager.
I had to bite my lip to stop laughing.
Finally, we stepped out into the cool night. My bridal lehenga was heavy and long, brushing against the ground, but before I could adjust, Vihaan bent slightly and caught the edge in his hand so it wouldn’t drag.
I glanced back at him, surprised. He just shrugged with a faint smile, “Relax, Ruh. I’ll handle you and your lehenga too.”
“How very husband-like,” I teased.
He leaned close, whispering low so only I could hear, “You haven’t even seen how husband-like I can be yet.”
I coughed suddenly at his remark and I quickly turned away biting my lips.
He opened the driver’s side door for me. “After you, Mrs. Raichand.”
I slid in carefully, adjusting the heavy folds of my lehenga, while he bent down just enough to make sure it didn’t get caught in the door.
His face was close…too close and I quickly looked away before my blush betrayed me.
Once I was settled behind the wheel, he walked around and slipped into the passenger seat.
In the meantime, I quickly sent Vani a message about something I’d asked her to handle for me. Since we’re going there anyway, it can be done easily.
Fingers on the wheel, I started the engine, the car humming to life.
Shifting into gear, I drove smoothly through the quiet streets, heels pressing the pedals with confidence.
The red folds of my lehenga shimmered with every movement, and I leaned back slightly, hands steady, fully in control.
The streets were empty, lamps glowing golden against the dark sky. I tightened my hands on the wheel, trying to act calm, but inside, my stomach fluttered with excitement.
It’s actually cool to drive in bridal lehnga.
My gaze accidentally flicked to the rearview mirror.
Through it, I saw him, jaw tightening just enough to make me notice the subtle tension in his neck, Adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed a slow, deliberate breath. My pulse jumped, heat rushing to my skin.
Something inside me stirred, sharp, thrilling, impossible to ignore. I felt my fingers clench the wheel slightly, a shiver running down my spine, and that delicious, tingling flutter in my stomach made it impossible to focus on anything else.
“I know, Ruh, what that pretty brain of yours is thinking, how dangerously irresistibly handsome your husband looks. I get it, this face card never declines,” he said, all confident teasing.
I couldnβt help but roll my eyes at his self-obsession, though a small smile betrayed me.
He glanced sideways at me, amusement in his eyes, “You look like you’re about to sit for an exam.”
I scoffed, “Excuse me, I am not nervous. I’m focused.”
“Focused?” he smirked. “On the road or on me?”
I shot him a glare, my cheeks heating, “Don’t flatter yourself.”
He leaned back in his seat, grinning, “Can’t help it. My wife hasn’t stopped blushing since we got in the car. Makes me wonder what she’s really thinking.”
“I’m thinking about how annoying you are,” I muttered, keeping my eyes on the road.
“Liar,” he said softly, reaching over to cover my hand on the gear.
His thumb brushed lazily against my skin.
I inhaled sharply, “Vihaan….”
“Relax,” he said, voice low and teasing. “You drive, I’ll keep myself entertained and won’t disturb you.”
“Entertained how?” I asked, gripping the wheel tighter, trying to sound serious.
His smirk was devilish.
He held out his hand toward mine, palm up, “Give me your free hand.”
I raised an eyebrow, “Vihaan, I’m driving.”
“Exactly,” he said, eyes glinting. “One hand on the wheel, one hand with me. Perfect balance. Come on, Mrs. Raichand.”
I rolled my eyes but couldn’t resist slipping my free hand into his.
He leaned just enough to press a soft, teasing kiss on my palm, “See? Even your hand looks perfect. Soft… warm…made for me.”
I flushed, glancing at the road, “You’re ridiculous.”
“And you,” he murmured, pressing another quick kiss to the center of my palm, “are secretly loving it. I can feel your pulse.”
I tried to snort a laugh but failed miserably, “Keep this up and you’ll be sleeping outside the room tonight.”
He chuckled, brushing a gentle kiss along my fingers, “Outside, inside, either way, I always get what I want.”
I tightened my grip on the wheel, “You are a unique species.”
His eyes traced every curve of me, lingering on the red lehenga that seemed to catch every flicker of the streetlights, making it glow like liquid fire.
“Ruh…” he breathed, his voice low, almost reverent, “you know this crimson red colour, it is made for you. The way it drapes, the way it moves… it’s mesmerizing. You look….”
He paused, swallowing slightly, “…absolutely radiant, almost unreal, like some painting comes to life right here in this car.”
I felt my stomach flutter, my heart hammering so violently it threatened to burst through my ribs.
My voice barely rose above a whisper, trembling with a mixture of nerves and awe, “You really have a way with your words”
He chuckled again, pressing a soft kiss to the back of my hand, and I caught him sneaking a glance in the rearview.
He scrunched his nose, inhaling slightly, and I knew he wasn’t a fan of the faint scent of henna. I quickly pulled my hand back to change the gear.
I tuned the music to soft, letting the lights of the city flicker over us.
Until I turned on a playlist that included the recording of me singing a song for him.
I froze for a second then relaxed knowing he had saved all the recordings.
I smiled, and his gaze caught mine, that soft, proud smile that could make me fall in love all over again.
Without a word, he reached for the edge of my dupatta, playing lightly with the hem while letting the song wash over us.
He didn’t interrupt, didn’t speak, just silently enjoyed the moment, the ride, the music, the two of us.
The car hummed beneath us, the night wrapping us in quiet warmth. I felt special, seen, cherished and utterly captivated by him.
β’β’β’β’β’
We entered the building, the clinking sound of my bangles filling the quiet corridor. Vihaan pressed the lift button, then exhaled dramatically.
“This is so weird,” he muttered. “A groom and bride, all alone in a lift at midnight.”
I bit back a laugh.
“Weird? It’s actually fun,” I teased.
He gave me a look, half amused, half tired, “Only you would find this fun.”
The lift dinged, and soon we were at the apartment door.
Vihaan moved forward, but frowned. “Uh… Maasi didn’t give me the key.”
“Which means someone’s already inside,” I said shrugging my shoulders.
That i already know.
So, I rang the bell.
The door swung open to reveal Vani, who immediately froze.
“Wait…don’t move! Stand right there!” she squealed.
My eyes flickered past her and widened. Tanya stood next to her, grinning, and inside on the couch were Yash and Sid, sprawled like they owned the place.
“You’re so late!” Yash muttered, tossing a cushion aside. “Do you even know how long we have been waiting for you two?”
Sid barely looked up from the deck of cards he was shuffling, “Bro, I thought you really took her to Mars to have your personal time.”
Tanya folded her arms, smirking, “Finally. I was about to send a search team.”
Vihaan sighed under his breath, shaking his head like he wanted to disappear. From the way his jaw tightened, I could tell he had zero idea about this little ambush.
Before I could speak, Vani and Tanya stepped forward, “Okay, now come in,” Vani said sweetly.
The moment we stepped inside, a shower of flower petals rained over us.
I laughed in disbelief, brushing petals off my hair, while Vihaan groaned beside me.
“You people planned this?” he asked dryly.
“Of course we did!” Vani shot back. “What kind of friends would we be if we didn’t give you a proper welcome in your new house? So we cleaned it, although it was already but still!”
I shook my head, amused. Honestly, I had expected silence and maybe fairy lights. Instead, here we were, ambushed by our friends.
Then suddenly, Tanya grabbed my hand, “Okay Ruhii, come with us.”
Vani nodded quickly, “Yes, Ruhii.”
Vihaan instantly tensed, “Wait, where are you taking her?”
“To her room, obviously,” Vani said, winking at me. “You wait outside. Don’t worry, we’ll return your wife to you eventually.”
Tanya tugged me along, ignoring my halfhearted protests, “Come on, Ruhii. Time for a bride-talk.”
I shot Vihaan a helpless look over my shoulder. He looked both annoyed and resigned, his hand half-lifting like he wanted to pull me back but didn’t dare argue them.
“Don’t be too long,” he muttered, narrowing his eyes at them.
Vani laughed, “Oh relax, Jhinghur. Patience is part of marriage.”
“Yeah,” Sid added lazily from the couch, smirking. “Think of it as your first test.”
I chuckled.
They dragged me into the room, shutting the door behind us, leaving Vihaan alone in the hall to wait.
The door clicked shut behind us, and Vani immediately shoved me onto the bed. Tanya plopped down on the other side, both of them grinning like maniacs.
“Finally!” Tanya clasped her hands dramatically. “Bride in the room. Now we can talk properly.”
I blinked, nervous, “Talk about what?”
Vani arched a brow, “Oh, don’t play innocent. About your wedding night, of course.”
I frowned, “Wh-what?!”
Tanya laughed, nudging me with her shoulder.
“Relax, we are not here to scare you. We are your soul sisters now, remember? Our job is to tease, but also to guide.” She winked.
I sighed, rubbing my forehead, “This is so embarrassing.”
Vani gently pulled my hands away, “No, no, listen. It’s very normal. It’s okay to feel nervous or shy.”
“But I am not feeling shy,” I said, shrugging and leaning back against the headboard.
They both looked confused.
“Why?” they asked in unison.
“I have been with him for more than seven years. He’s seen every side of me. I feel so comfortable that I don’t even get shy around him anymore,” I said, and they just sighed.
“Oh, by the way, did you do what I asked?” I asked them, and they-
“Yes! Ready but still, I don’t understand what you’ll do th-” Tanya quickly clamped Vani’s mouth shut.
“Shh, I told you…it’s her personal thing. Not your business,” Tanya said, and Vani nodded obediently as if understanding.
I shook my head at both of them.
“Yash and Sid didn’t get to know?” I asked.
“Yeah, I had to make them clean the kitchen as an excuse. Told them you’d be hungry later so yeah, they found it fine,” Tanya shrugged.
“But serious talk,” both of them said at once.
Tanya nodded wisely, pretending to give a lecture, “Rule number one….don’t let him boss you around. He will act all calm and serious, but trust me, he melts the moment you glare at him.”
He always did.
“Oh, totally,” Vani confirmed.
I shook my head, half laughing, half horrified. What was this? A crash course in “How to Handle Your Husband 101”?
“Rule number two,” Tanya continued, wagging her finger, “don’t be shy to demand. He pretends to be sensible, but deep down, he’s just waiting for you.”
My face got heated again.
“You two are crackheads, you know that?” I whispered.
Vani leaned closer, lowering her voice dramatically, “And rule number three-“
“Stop, you both, I get it,” I said with an almost exasperated sigh.
Meanwhile, outside, faint footsteps betrayed Vihaan pacing in the hallway.
Vani smirked knowingly, “And your groom? Poor guy must be losing his mind out there. He hates waiting.”
Tanya peeked through the door crack, “Yup, confirmed. He’s leaning against the wall, arms crossed, pretending he’s patient. But ohhh… his foot is tapping. He is restless.”
They both giggled, then turned back to me.
Vani patted my hand gently.
“Jokes apart, Ruhanika… don’t be scared. He may tease and annoy, but Vihaan is soft-hearted. He’ll never push you beyond your comfort. Trust him. And…..” She paused, winking, “have fun tonight.”
I groaned, covering my face again.
“Alright, enough torturing my poor girl,” Tanya finally said, standing up.
They helped me up, fixing my dupatta and smoothing my hair like overprotective sisters. Then Tanya swung the door open.
“There you go, jhingur,” she said sweetly.
“Thanks for being here, though it really wasn’t needed to bless me with your witch type presence. The door’s right there…you both can leave,” he said with a stern yet sarcastic tone.
I heard the door click shut. Vihaan hadn’t come back; he probably went to lock it
A few minutes later, I received a message-they all gone.
Which meant I was here alone with Vihaan. In this house.
And that alone made my heart race…nervous, excited, and completely throwing my mind into another dimension.
I looked around the room carefully. Nothing had changed much, just the paint…it was now an off-white texture.
The space was decorated with white orchids and a mix of red and white roses.
I walked over to the big bouquet of orchids and inhaled deeply. The scent made me feel unexpectedly happy, a warm little smile forming on my lips.
Fairy lights were strung across the room, glowing softly. I moved toward the terrace that joined the room. This was my favorite part of this floor. It had a wide terrace where I could see almost half the city sparkling below, and it had a shed too, with a swing and a small table sitting area.
It was also where we had our first date.
I sat on the swing first, then shifted to the bed, waiting, but he didn’t come.
Where the heck is this chimpanzee? I thought, frowning.
Did he forget it’s our first night?
My lehenga swished as I moved around, growing more restless. Finally, I decided to go downstairs. The soft jingle of my jewellery accompanied each step.
The hall was empty, so I peeked into the kitchen carefully.
And there he was sitting on a stool, holding a glass of orange-colored juice.
Next to him, I noticed a pack of orange-flavored Glucon-D.
What?
Like seriouso?? Glucon-D.
I stared. Not just one glass, but seven empty ones already lined up and this one in his hand? Did he really drink 7-8 glasses of Glucon-D?
Seriously, what is he even doing?
His leg shaking restlessly and tapping his finger on the kitchen slab continuously.
Is he nervous? I wondered, watching him closely.
I stayed quiet, just observing.
“You can do it… yes….I’ll just enter and say hii…” he muttered under his breath, staring at the floor.
I froze.
Oh gosh, this man…
It’s a rare sight to watch him nervous.
Leaning against the doorframe, I smirked, “That’s all you have to say to your newlywed wife?”
He nearly choked on his drink and whipped around, “Ruh! Don’t sneak up on me like that…”
I folded my arms, teasing him, “So Mr. Raichand was practicing how to greet his wife with a ‘hi’ ?”
He rubbed the back of his neck, cheeks pink, “Well… I didn’t want to sound like an idiot.”
“You already did,” I said, smirking.
He groaned and leaned back slightly, “Unfair, Mrs. Raichand. You’re supposed to support me, not roast me.”
I tugged my veil forward, letting it fall over my face, “Weren’t you the one who said I’ll be finding a lot more surprises tonight?”
His brows shot up, a small smirk forming, “Of course, wifey. You’ll get everything….but…”
“But here you are, nervous,” I raised an eyebrow, watching him carefully.
He sighed, looking down at the floor, “I’m nervous because you’re my Ruh, but now you’re my wife too. It feels new.”
I could totally understand him.
“And on top of that….pehli pehli baar shadi hui hai aur pehli baar biwi bani ho meri, ghabrahat to hogi na,” he added sheepishly, smiling.
(it’s the first time I have ever married, and it’s the first time you become my wife of course there will be some nervousness)
I blinked at him, then burst out laughing, “You’re acting like I’ve been married every day. It’s my first marriage too, you know. And that nervousness part? That was supposed to be my department!”
He rolled his eyes, sipping his Glucon-D.
Seven glasses gone this man is ridiculous, I thought, trying not to laugh again.
“Now, like a good husband, come to the room. I’m waiting for you,” I said, turning on my heels and chuckling at his antics.
“Besides, I can help you take out your nervousness better than this drink,” I added with a wink, and he coughed, clearly flustered.
I bit my lip, swinging my duppata slightly.
But of course, I forgot-he is Vihaan, the stupidly confident Raichand.
“Ruh, you don’t know this Glucon-D pack says it gives refreshing vibes and energy too,” he smirked, winking at me as he gulped down the rest, staring straight at me the entire time.
I cleared my throat, looking down and understanding exactly what he meant.
“Nasty Homo sapien,” I muttered under my breath, not wanting him to see my red cheeks.
I went back to the room, adjusted myself, and sat on the bed, legs crossed.
Hopefully, he’ll finish his so-called energy drink soon and come in.
A few minutes later, a knock at the door made me look up.
The door opened slowly, and he peeked in, still looking down. A small wave of affection made me grin.
“Hi,” I said, waving.
He scratched the back of his head and murmured, “Hii…”
We stood there, looking at each other for a moment, just holding each other’s gaze as if trying to drink in everything through our eyes.
Then, without warning, we both burst out laughing.
Yep, this is going to be a perfectly chaotic, adorable first night.
I grinned at him, brushing my dupatta as I settled down.
He came and sat beside me, eyes focused, and I held out both hands.
“Find your name,” I said teasingly. “If you can find it, you’ll get a sweet reward. If not….well, forget about it.”
Vihaan raised an eyebrow, smirking, “That’s easy.”
I watched him carefully as he leaned closer, trying to trace the mehndi designs. His brow furrowed slightly, lips pursed in concentration.
Poor man…. he’s taking this way too seriously, I thought, stifling a laugh.
“What happened, dear Raichand ji?” I asked, leaning closer, teasingly.
“Don’t distract me,” he muttered, eyes narrowing as he focused on my hands.
I couldn’t hold it in…I let out a soft laugh.
He looked up at me, pretending to glare, “This is serious work, Mrs. Raichand. You’re trying to mess with me, aren’t you?”
I smirked, “Maybe just a little. You’re so serious right now, it’s hilarious.”
He squinted again at the intricate designs, “These lines, these patterns, it’s like a maze. How do you expect anyone to find a single name in all this?”
“Well,” I said, leaning back slightly, “you’ll just have to try harder. Or… I might cancel your reward.”
He gasped dramatically, “Cancel my reward? You can’t do that. That’s cruel.”
I shrugged innocently, “I can, and I just did.”
He groaned, spinning my hands around to check another spot, “This is unfair! Your mehndi is… impossible. How do you even read this?”
I laughed, watching him struggle and mutter under his breath.
“Seven glasses of Glucon-D won’t help you here,” I teased him.
He finally looked up, cheeks slightly pink, “Okay fine, maybe you made this really hard on purpose.”
“Maybe I did,” I said, grinning, leaning closer to watch him try again. “Or maybe I just like watching my husband work hard for a reward.”
He shot me a mock glare, then sighed dramatically, “I see how it is. You’re enjoying this way too much.”
“Absolutely,” I said with a sly smile. “Now keep looking, or your reward is officially gone.”
He groaned again, but I could see a little twinkle in his eye. That stubborn man… I love him too much.
“Ruh it’s not here I am sure that mehndi artist didn’t write it,” he muttered snd i pulled my hand back
“Well you lose mr. Raichand the name is here already,” I said narrowing my eyes at him.
He sighed and sat trying to find where I could ask the mehndi artist to hide the name.
When he didn’t move, I stood up and walked toward the side drawer.
Vihaan’s eyes followed me carefully, curious and slightly amused.
I reached inside and grabbed the Polaroid camera I had asked Vani to keep safe.
Vihaan frowned.
“Vihaan, suno,” I said without turning back.
“Sunaiye, Vihaan ki Ruh,” he replied, his voice low and warm.
My heart skipped a beat.
I turned around and handed him the camera.
“Now click my picture while I twirl,” I said, smiling softly.
He raised an eyebrow, “Twirl?”
“Of course,” I said, leaning closer. “I want to make our own scrapbook. You know how much I love it. We’ll click pictures, write little messages, and paste them together. It’ll be fun.”
He chuckled, shaking his head.
“Your personal photographer is here, Ruh,” he said, rolling up his sleeves as he loosened his kurta, getting ready to become my personal paparazzi.
I walked to the spot he pointed out. “Ruh, come here, lighting is perfect here.”
I twirled once, letting my lehenga flare, and he clicked the picture.
Then I sat on the couch, leaning against it and holding my dupatta, giving a playful pose.
He clicked again, moving around standing on the couch, crouching on the floor trying to get the perfect angle.
“Now your turn,” I said, handing the camera back.
“What am I supposed to do?” he asked, looking a little lost. I facepalmed.
“Just stand over there and lean against the door frame,” I instructed, ruffling his hair a little so it got messy.
I like when his hair is messy. It makes him look tempting.
Then I stepped back and clicked a picture of him.
Next, I clicked a few more candid shots, him adjusting his sleeves, looking at me, laughing and then we sat together, taking turns clicking each other. He sneaked glances at me, and I did the same, only for him to suddenly snap the camera on me.
I laughed and quickly clicked back, and before I knew it, he kissed my cheek and then clicked a picture.
We took a few more, some in the mirror, some close-ups, some of us smiling like maniacs, laughing so hard our cheeks hurt.
Finally, we sat on the bed, going through the photos.
“I look like a confused puppy in this one,” he frowned, holding up a Polaroid.
“That’s exactly why I love it! You look so cute,” I said, giggling. He rolled his eyes but pasted it in the scrapbook anyway.
We turned the pages, writing little messages next to each photo, teasing each other in notes, and laughing over memories from the wedding.
At one point, I pressed a lipstick mark on one of the pictures of us and kissed it, leaving my imprint.
“Done,” I said, closing the scrapbook with a satisfied smile.
Vihaan wrapped an arm around me.
“I love how chaotic this is but I love that it’s ours,” he whispered.
I leaned my head against his shoulder. “Me too…. perfect memory.”
Vihaan carefully closed the scrapbook and set it aside, tucking it safely onto the shelf.
I yawned, feeling the exhaustion of the day catch up with me.
He noticed immediately and chuckled softly, “Looks like someone’s running out of energy.”
I rubbed my eyes.
“Just a little tired,” I mumbled.
Without a word, I reached into my dupatta and pulled out my jewelry. Vihaan gestured for me to sit at the dressing table. He leaned closer, gently helping me remove my earrings, his eyes on mine in the mirror.
He bent down slowly to take off my heavy anklets and carefully placed them inside the jewelry box.
“Finally,” I said, feeling lighter with every piece removed.
He worked on taking out my necklaces, then moved to the hair pins and studs.
He loosened each pin carefully, making sure none of my hair got tangled.
After a while, he let out a small groan, “How many pins are there, Ruh?”
I chuckled at his reaction.
“36 for the bun alone, and 17 more for the side hair and baby hairs,” I said, grinning.
His fingers gently traced the half-tangled strands of my hair.
“Ruh your head didn’t hurt,” he asked, looking shocked.
“It was a total headache but I was looking beautiful, so worth it,” I teased, leaning slightly against him.
“Indeed you were looking mesmerizing,” he said smiling at me.
Finally, he removed the last pin, letting my hair fall softly around my shoulders. He brushed a stray strand behind my ear.
“There,” he said softly.
Then, leaning closer, he pressed a gentle kiss near my ear, tracing up my jaw almost to the corner of my lips. I pulled slightly back, and he frowned but didn’t say anything.
“I think you should go change. I’ll keep all the things in their place,” I said.
He looked at me for a moment but didn’t argue, simply nodding and smiling faintly.
He went into the other room to change, while I stayed back, arranging my jewelry neatly into the box. I adjusted everything in the wardrobe just the way I liked it.
Now only one task left…changing out of my heavy lehenga.
By the time I locked the wardrobe, Vihaan walked back in, completely changed, wearing a plain white tee and black sweatpants.
My eyes lingered for a second.
Simple, but dangerously good.
“Ruh,” he said, his voice softer now, “your things are inside the wardrobe already. Go change. Maybe take a quick shower, it’ll freshen you up. I set the water temperature already. Lukewarm, just how you like it.”
I nodded as I really need a shower right now.
Then he added, “Change, and then we’ll sleep.”
I turned, looked at him.
“Sleep?” I frowned.
“Yes,” he said, like it was the most obvious thing.
I blinked at him.
“You do remember it’s our wedding night, right?” I asked dramatically, raising an eyebrow.
He nodded, completely calm, “Of course I do. But Ruh, I saw you yawning and rubbing your eyes. You are tired. You should rest tonight.”
Before I could argue, he leaned down, kissed my forehead gently, and went back to adjusting the bedsheets. He smoothed out the wrinkles, even picked up the rose petals that had been scattered across the bed for decoration.
I stared at him, lips parted.
“I’m not tired,” I blurted out quickly.
He turned to me, narrowed his eyes suspiciously, and then sighed deeply, closing his eyes for a moment like he was gathering patience.
Is he holding back?
Not because he doesn’t want to but because he thinks I’m too tired.
Aww. Sweet.
But also now I really want to push his buttons.
Fine, Mr. Raichand. If you won’t make a move, then your wife will.
I leaned against the wardrobe, arms crossed, watching him fuss over the bed, a mischievous smile tugging at my lips.
I can do this.
Of course I can. After all, I am Ruhanika Vihaan Raichand now.
She looked ethereal tonight-the glow on her face making me restless, the urge to touch her, to kiss her, to claim her burning through me.
Control Vihaan Raichand control.
But I had told myself to be patient. She’d yawned so many times after the crowd, and I thought all she needed was sleep.
I was wrong.
The faint creak of the door caught my attention.
“Ruh, sit on the chair, I’ll dry your hair,” I called while adjusting the things beside the same drawer.
But silence answered me.
I turned.
“Ruh?”
The terrace door was open. I frowned as i went to find her.
No reply. Only darkness, the shed lights dimmed, until faint music whispered through the night air.
And then the first cold drop hit my skin.
Water. Droplets pouring over me.
Wait. Rain?
But the weather is clean.
And when I stepped outside I lost every ounce of patience I had left.
She stood there, under the artificial rain, maroon chiffon saree plastered to her like molten silk, her hair dripping, clinging to her waist.
The sight of her stole my breath. My throat went dry.
Seeing Ruh in Maroon-my weakness.
She walked toward me, her anklets chiming, eyes glimmering like she knew exactly what she was doing.
“Ruh…” I whispered.
She only pressed a finger to her lips, silencing me.
Did she planned this??
As the music swelled, she twirled around me, every movement fluid and tempting, water droplets sliding over her skin, catching the light like tiny sparks. My eyes couldn’t leave her.
The terrace had vanished beneath the storm.
All I could see, all I could feel, was her-My Ruh-moving like she owned the rain.
Each sway of her waist was deliberate, teasing, the soft chime of her red bangles calling me closer, daring me to lose control.
Her hazel-brown eyes locked onto mine, blazing with desire and love. My gaze followed her every step.
The subtle shift of her weight, the tilt of her waist, the curve of her body…it was hypnotic.
Every tiny motion made my blood surge, and I had to remind myself to breathe.
Breath Vihaan Raichand.
Breath.
Inhale and Exhale.
This woman had such power over me. I couldn’t look away.
My jaw clenched, pulse hammering, every nerve ablaze.
She moved like fire and water combined, and I was completely, hopelessly captivated.
The maroon chiffon clung to her, wet and translucent, molding to her curves and sliding with every sway.
My hands ached to pull her close, but she allowed just enough distance to burn me slowly, keeping me in delicious torment.
Her soaked hair slid against my chest as she leaned forward, brushing me with every movement as she whispered the lyrics of the song:
Meri pehli mohabbat hai
Meri pehli yeh chahat
Meri itni si hasrat hai
Gale lag na na jaa
Her voice wrapped around me like fire, silken and irresistible.
I watched her carefully, noticing every detail, the tilt of her head, the subtle shift of her feet.
She was tempting me deliberately, testing my restraint, and I was helpless.
She knows exactly what she’s doing.
The way she slid her pallu just enough to reveal the curve of her waist made my chest tighten and my thoughts shatter.
I reached for her, hands tracing the curve of her waist, the hollow of her back, feeling the soft shiver that ran beneath my touch. She leaned in, letting her hair cascade over my shoulder, chest brushing mine with a rhythm that made me ache.
I wanted to devour her, memorize every inch of her, but I had to hold myself back…. for now.
When I leaned in to kiss her, she pulled away teasingly, letting her lips brush my neck in a soft, wet caress, water droplets adorning her skin.
Her finger traced my jaw, brushed my lips, and she winked. That single gesture destroyed all my restraint.
My hands snaked around her waist, pulling her impossibly close, inhaling the intoxicating scent of her skin mingled with rain.
As I twirled her again and again, I pulled her close, our movements perfectly in sync.
Teri baahon mein rahat hai
Teri zulfhon mein jannat hai
Meri itni si hasrat hai
Gale lag na na jaa
I whispered against her throat, low and rough, letting my hands anchor her to the swing as we swayed together. The wet fabric of her saree slid across me, igniting every nerve in my body.
Her presence was fire against my skin, and I was completely burning with the desire.
And I knew that I am loosing all the control.
She nudged me toward the swing with a playful shove, and I obeyed without a word, watching her with raw desire.
The way she moved, so confident, so daring, made my mind spin.
Her, this version will always be imprinted in my mind.
She leaned back slightly, pressing her chest against mine with deliberate intent.
Her pulse raced under my fingers, intoxicating and alive. Her hands wandered across my chest, teasing, and
I caught them, holding her palm against my heart, memorizing the rhythm of her body.
She slid onto my lap, tilting her head, exposing the curve of her neck, daring me to cross the line but I let desire simmer, savoring every second.
Her breath was hot against my skin, hair sticking to her cheeks and my shoulder.
I was utterly helpless and addicted towards her.
Sulge sulge badan hai
Uljhe uljhe se mann hai
Badhti jaati hai tan ki pyaas
Bheki bheki hai raatein
Mehki mehki hai saansen
Rehna..rehna tu dil ke paas
Every fleeting touch, every teasing brush of lips against my jaw, temple, and neck drove me to the edge. I groaned softly, unable to stop the ache building down there.
Her cheek brushed my shoulder, “Do you feel it, Vihaan?” she whispered.
“Yes,” I rasped, voice thick with desire I could barely admit.
You’ve made me insane me already.
Look at my Ruh.
How one woman can be this perfect?
The swing creaked beneath us as our bodies pressed closer, swaying together, fire against fire. My hands roamed over her sides, memorizing every curve, the hollow of her back, the soft dip of her waist.
Her lips brushed my temple.
I leaned in, forehead resting against hers, breath mingling, heart racing.
Her eyes sparkled, wet and mischievous, lips parted in silent invitation. Her subtle tremor pulled me deeper into her orbit.
“I’m losing my last strings of patience,” I murmured, lips brushing the nape of her neck.
My lips trailed along her neck, tangling in her hair, every soft moan slipping through the storm like fire.
I was drowning in her, utterly undone.
I held her close, drinking in that intoxicating scent, my favourite lipstick shade which she applies, rain-soaked hair, the subtle perfume of her skin…every part of her calling to me.
She pressed into me like she belonged there, curves molded to mine, heat radiating off her in slow waves.
I lifted her hand, kissing her ring finger, letting my lips linger. She furrowed her brows, teasing, daring me to go further.
“I found my name, Ruh. Where’s my reward?” I whispered, biting her earlobe lightly.
Her eyes darkened with mischief, pupils dilated, lips parting in a quiet, tempting smile.
“You knew all this before?” she murmured, voice soft but taunting.
I nodded, pulling her closer, letting my hands travel the damp curves of her waist.
“Why didn’t you tell me before? Are you trying to annoy me-?” she started, but I silenced her with the press of my chest, letting my lips find hers.
“Vihaan…” she gasped, lips trembling against mine.
“I just wanted to tease you,” she whispered against my lips, her tongue brushing mine for a fraction, leaving me desperate. “But don’t you think I deserve my own reward?”
“You do,” I breathed, tilting her jaw toward me, claiming her mouth with my own.
The moment our mouths crashed together, it was hunger and heat.
I sucked on her lower lip, slow and deliberate, before she answered with a flick of her tongue that sent fire down my spine.
Our tongues tangled, collided, reckless dance neither of us wanted to end. I sucked her corner of lips where my favourite mole rested, tasting her, drawing her deeper, until she moaned and pressed harder against me.
The sound unraveled me, and I kissed her harder, sucking, nipping, tongues clashing in wild rhythm.
She pulled at my hair, urging me closer, and I gave in, losing myself in the intoxicating chaos of her mouth against mine.
I lifted her slightly as I carried her through the terrace door.
Inside, I pressed her against the door, letting it click shut, sliding the curtain across the window.
I lowered her onto the couch, lips never leaving hers, biting her lower lip lightly, tasting her, tasting rain and desire all at once.
She arched against me, lips parted, hands roaming over my shoulders, tugging at my shirt, teasing my chest, making me groan into her mouth.
As I pulled her into another breathless kiss, she pushed me back just enough to look up at me, wet hair falling over her face like a dark, eyes blazing with fire.
She took deep breaths while i looked at her. Caressing her hair.
She then stood up and walked toward the bed, each step slow, deliberate.
I stepped closer, hands on her waist, pulling her gently against me. Her back pressed to my chest, and the mirror reflected everything, her radiant self, and me, completely captivated, already losing control.
“You know,” I murmured, lips brushing her shoulder blade, teasing her neck, “I don’t think I’ve ever wanted someone this much.”
Her fingers traced my jaw lightly, playful and bold. Tilting her head, she whispered, low and teasing, “Are you sure you can handle it?”
“I…I don’t know,” I admitted, breath catching, lips brushing hers accidentally.
“I feel like I’m already losing my self.”
I kissed her back, biting slightly, letting her feel me while she shivered under my touch.
Her soft, teasing laugh made my pulse spike.
“Good,” she said, voice smooth, confident, “I like seeing you like this. Flustered, desperate…. it suits you.”
I pulled her closer, staring into the mirror.
I slowly opened the knot of her blouse. She gulped, a little bold but still nervous and shy. I pressed my lips to her shoulder, tasting the soft, damp skin.
The blouse almost slipped from her shoulder, revealing just a little, but she put her hand over it. I kissed her neck again.
“You…you’re ethereal,” I murmured, voice rough, almost confessing.
She leaned back just enough to tempt me, eyes glinting in the mirror.
“Ruh… I can’t control myself now, I need you,” I muttered, breathless, lips brushing hers.
“Then earn it, Vihaan, make me lose control too,” she whispered, fire flickering in her eyes as she looked straight in my eyes in the mirror.
“What?” I muttered, shocked at how much she had me undone.
“Yes,” she said softly, a little smirk tugging at her lips.
“Earn it. I like seeing how far my man will go when he’s pushed,” she said sliding her finger to my arms as if testing my patience.
I couldn’t resist. My lips trailed from her shoulder to the side of her neck, kissing, sucking gently, tasting. She tilted her head, eyes closing briefly, then opening to meet mine in the mirror with that challenging gaze.
“You’re enjoying this too much, aren’t you?” I murmured against her skin, hands roaming her waist and lower back.
Her fingers brushed my chest again, nails teasing lightly.
“Maybe,” she said softly, voice low, commanding. “But I like seeing how much control you think you have before you lose it completely.”
Where the hell she is learning this??
But I like it.
I groaned softly, turning her toward me, lips brushing hers in a slow, heated kiss. Her mouth was soft, warm, intoxicating.
She kissed back, sucking gently as our tongues explored the corners of each other’s mouths.
I pulled back just slightly, lips brushing along her jaw.
“You’re making me crave you like fire,” I whispered.
“Am I?” she teased, biting her lower lip, eyes locking on mine in the mirror.
I kissed her again, slow and deliberate, teasing with pressure.
Her hands tangled in my hair briefly, pulling me closer, then slid teasingly down my chest again.
The mirror reflected every tiny shift of her body pressed against mine. She was teasing, guiding, subtly in control, making me ache to earn her completely.
Her whispers against my ear, soft, commanding, playful, made me stagger with desire.
As I almost pushed her gently onto the bed, careful not to hurt her, her blouse slipped slightly from her shoulder.
I hovered above her, the warmth between us thick, almost suffocating.
Her elbows pressed firmly into the bed, holding herself steady and teasing me while her foot slowly traced up my chest, nudging, daring, testing my restraint. As her foot still pressed over my chest I caressed her skin sliding my fingers over her ankle making her arch back.
“Take off your shirt,” she ordered me in a commanding tone.
I smirked, “Desperate much?”
She rolled her eyes but said nothing, hair spilling across the bed, the pallu slipping, revealing just enough for me to drink her in. My gaze locked on hers, and I loved the way she looked at me… shy, daring, all mine.
I shrugged out of my shirt, tossing it carelessly into the corner.
Her eyes flicked over me, dark and bright, and I felt her pulse in the curve of her gaze.
Sliding closer, I pressed my lips to her ankle, a shiver ran through her. I lingered, letting my lips wander as the saree slipped further down her leg. She pulled back, nervous, a soft gasp escaping her lips.
“As much as I love your bold side…” I murmured, my voice was low and warm, “…I adore my shy, perfect Ruh even more.”
She bit her lip, eyes darting down, cheeks flushing as I leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to the nape of her neck. My fingers brushed lightly under her blouse, tracing gentle lines over her curves. She shivered, pulling me just a little closer, her breath catching in soft, shy gasps.
The bed was scattered with rose petals, spilling from the box which I had kept before.
They fell around us as we lay down, soft and fragrant, clinging to our skin, pressing between us, fragrant witnesses to every movement, every gentle shift we made together.
I murmured against her collarbone, “The way these petals lie scattered around us, your shivers, your very essence it’s not just your body, Ruh, it’s your soul, and it pulls me in like nothing else ever could…a poem I could read a thousand times and never grow tired of.”
She shivered, tilting her head, lips parting in a soft smile.
“Then read it again and again,” she murmured, her voice trembling, teasing, coaxing.
I kissed her cheek, tracing the line upward slowly, letting my lips linger, nose brushing her neck softly.
She giggled, biting her lower lip, and I whispered, voice low and warm,
“You are breathtaking. From the sparkle in your eyes to the curve of your smile. I could cherish you like this forever.”
Her fingers traced his jaw lightly, voice barely above a whisper. “I… I didn’t know I could make someone feel like this.”
I leaned closer, lips brushing her temple, “Ruh it’s not just what you do to me..it’s who you are. The way you breathe, the way you laugh it makes me drown into you, and I never want to let go.”
Her hands slid over my shoulders, pulling me closer, pressing against me, daring me with her warmth and softness. I let my lips follow the line of her chest, trailing kisses, teasing, savoring, letting the petals scatter softly beneath us.
She tilted her head, eyes sparkling, lips brushing mine in a tentative, teasing kiss. I caught it, deepening slowly, my hands cupping her face, whispering:
“You are a galaxy, Ruh and I…. I could get lost in you, in every star of your body, every warmth of your sighs.”
Her giggle, soft and intoxicating, pressed me further.
“Then get lost,” she whispered, voice low, playful, trembling. “But don’t forget….you have to earn every inch.”
I smiled, teeth grazing her jaw softly, lips brushing hers in a slow, teasing rhythm.
“Oh… I’ll earn it,” I murmured, voice rough, intimate, “…every sigh, every shiver, every curve beneath my hands of yours….all yours, only yours.”
I leaned down, letting rose petals slip slowly from my fingers, drifting over her shoulders, her arms, tracing the curves of her body like a painter marking a masterpiece.
My lips traced upward, brushing her shoulder, i kissed her gently and then I nibbled it lightly, tasting it, letting my tongue brush over her warmth, marking her with the softest touch. She shivered, breath hitching, and I traced the line of her neck with my lips, feeling her pulse under my tongue.
Her neck, bare and tender, held the petals like a gift. I pressed my lips over each one, letting them linger, nipping softly.
I bent down, eyes tracing her curves, and pressed a soft kiss to her waist. My tongue flicked lightly over her skin, and she arched instinctively, a shiver running through her body.
I let my lips roam, brushing over the hem of her blouse, teasing her sensitive skin with slow, deliberate licks.
By the time three red marks dotted her waist, I smirked, running a hand over her skin, admiring my work.
“You burn,” I whispered, “like fire held in velvet. I want to learn every flicker, every shadow of you.”
She tilted her head and turned me hovering over me, lips brushing mine in a soft, teasing kiss, lingering just long enough to make my chest tighten.
Then she trailed her lips downward, brushing my nose, cheek, and jawline before settling on the sensitive hollow of my neck.
Tracing the adam apple with her fingers as I gulped.
Her mouth moved deliberately, soft kisses, quick nips, flicks of her tongue marking me, leaving wet, heated traces that burned deliciously against my skin.
And looked at me with her intense hazel brown eyes.
“You’re…. looking at me,” I whispered, breath hitching.
She smiled, eyes glowing, and whispered, “I’m looking at the man I love, the heartbeat of my heart.”
Her fingers cupped my face gently, thumbs brushing my cheeks, before sliding lower to press against my chest.
She nipped and kissed, over my skin, leaving purplish marks. My chest rose with every shiver, utterly captivated, while my fingers roamed over her waist, struggling to control myself.
Her hands explored my back, nails tracing teasing, deliberate patterns as she guided mine over her curves, pressing her body into mine as she kissed relentlessly.
“I love you…. all of you, Vihaan,” she murmured, her voice low.
Her blouse slipped further, but she didn’t care, kissing over my shoulder, leaving traces of her heat on me, claiming every inch she could reach.
I groaned, pressing into her, feeling her warmth, her desire, her soft dominance wrapping around me.
She looked up, eyes glowing with love and need, whispering, “You are mine and I want you to feel how much I adore you.”
I could barely form words, chest heaving, lips parting for ragged breaths.
Finally, I let my hands explore her waist and back fully, fingers tangling in her hair as I drew her closer, lost in the intoxicating mixture of heat, love, and need. Her lips never left me, tracing patterns across my chest, marking me, leaving me breathless and overwhelmed, heart pounding with every kiss and bite.
“I want you, Ruh,” I said, voice low, almost a growl, thick with longing.
Her breath hitched, voice trembling with desire, “Then why don’t you do it already?”
I smirked, brushing a soft kiss along her shoulder, letting my fingers trail down the petals resting on her skin.
And i turned her over her back resting to the bed as I hovered over her.
“Because,” I murmured, lips brushing hers, ” I’ll pour all my love to you first, letting it coat you, mark you, claim you before I take you completely.”
She smiled at me.
I stood up, grabbed the projector, switched off the lights, and turned it on.
The room went dark, except for the soft swirl of stars from the galaxy projector.
The rose petals beneath us glimmered faintly, reds glowing against the shadows like tiny constellations.
I traced her skin like I was mapping the universe itself.
“Do you see them, Ruh?” I whispered, low and husky. “Every star up there, every galaxy it all fades beside you. You’re infinite and I want to get lost in you and drown you into my love.”
“And one more thing,” I said caressing her hair.
She nodded, and I cupped her cheeks, thumbs brushing softly.
“You’ll tell me how it feels, okay? Good, strange, awkward, weird, whatever you feel, just tell me,” I murmured.
She nodded again.
I pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, then smirked, letting my lips trail down her neck, chest, along the gentle curve of her waist. The stars of the projector danced across her skin, highlighting every curve.
I leaned closer, lips brushing hers, letting my hands trace her thighs.
“You really know how to tempt someone, don’t you?” I murmured, low and teasing.
She grinned against my mouth, fingers tracing my jaw.
“Ruh are you sure about this?” I asked, serious.
She blinked at me and rolled her eyes, “Dare you stop, Vihaan Raichand, and I’ll make sure you never touch me again.”
Oh okay!
I chuckled, leaning closer, “Oh really? That’s your threat? You do realize I thrive on challenges, right?”
Her eyes sparkled, bold, “Then go ahead see if you can handle me.”
“Handle you?” I teased, brushing my lips along hers lightly. “Sweetheart, I don’t just handle I make you forget the world exists.”
She froze for a second, then her cheeks flushed, eyes closing as she muttered, almost shyly, “Nasty Chimpanzee.”
I laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face, “Oh, I like it when you all get shy after being bold.”
She peeked at me through her lashes, biting her lip, “You’re stupid, Vihaan.”
“And you love it,” I whispered, leaning closer, letting my hands wander just enough to make her squirm. “Admit it, Ruh, you can’t resist me.”
She shivered, playful but hesitant, letting her voice drop, “Umm just a little.”
I smirked, voice low, teasing, “A little won’t do tonight I plan on taking all of you.”
Her laugh was soft, daring, and I could feel her heart racing under my touch. “Vihaan… you’re really… something else. Really… unique Species existing on this Earth”
“And this handsome unique species is all yours,” i whispered winking at her.
I leaned closer but stopped.
“One question,” I said, and she nodded.
“Only the saree is maroon… or inside too?”
Her eyes sparkled with mischief, lips curling into a daring smirk.
“Why don’t you find out yourself?” she smirked, arching slightly, tempting me closer.
That smirk, that tease it shattered every ounce of restraint I had. I captured her lips in a slow, intoxicating kiss, my hands slipping beneath her blouse and taking it off and throwing somewhere in the corner of the room.
She gasped softly, pressing closer, and I let the heat between us guide every kiss, every touch.
The rose petals beneath us shifted, soft and fragrant, while the starlight above cast shadows dancing across our entwined bodies.
The light dimmed almost completely. Then she let her hair tumble loose, the dark waves framing her face as she shed the last barrier between us.
My chest tightened as I followed, discarding my own, until nothing remained between us but breath, warmth, and the ache of closeness.
I pulled the duvet over us, cocooning our bodies, the stars above shimmering on our skin, painting us in soft, celestial glow.
And there, beneath the galaxy, surrounded by rose petals and whispered breaths, we gave ourselves over, slow, worshipful, intoxicating….into deep, endless love.
Every touch, every kiss, a poem written only for us.
——————————————————
Finally Chapter 73…!!!
So how was the chapter ???
I hope it turned out well…!!
Chalo ab couples ko privacy de doπ
Your favourite scene ??
Mine was “gale lag jaa na”π€
Glucon-D πΌ
And that one too “chalien mrs. Ruhanika Vihaan Raichand” ππ
Damn it…this sounds so goodβ¨
Oh and by the way, I thought I would be able to complete the book, but the realization is hitting me hard that I am too slow to update two chapters in a week, barely able to update one chapter, so yeah, wait for 5-6 more days π
And votes toh kr nhi rhe ho ab comments me bhi kanjoosi krne lageπ
Comments hi kar do…i read all your single comments literally and it feels so good to read mere liye hi kar do π₯Ή
Enjoy Reading β€οΈ
Stay tuned for further updates….!!
Bye Cutiepies….!!!π
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