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ग़ज़ब का है दिन, सोचो ज़रा
ये दीवानापन, देखो ज़रा
तुम हो अकेले, हम भी अकेले
मज़ा आ रहा है, क़सम से, क़सम से
ग़ज़ब का है दिन, सोचो ज़रा
ये दीवानापन, देखो ज़रा
तुम हो अकेले, हम भी अकेले
मज़ा आ रहा है, क़सम से, क़सम से
___________________________
For 9k+ words i can expect this much….pleaseee
VOTES: 400+
COMMENTS: 400+
___________________________
It was a cold winter evening, the kind that made December feel heavier and softer at the same time. Outside, the city glowed with warm yellow lights, and inside the cafe, the heater hummed quietly, wrapping everything in a cozy comfort.
Prateek and Priya sat across from each other, hands wrapped around warm mugs, waiting for their order. The café smelled of coffee and fries, soft music playing in the background.
“So, what are the plans for tomorrow?” Prateek asked casually, stirring his drink.
Priya shrugged, completely unbothered. “kal? Nothing special. Just a small party at home, cake cutting and all. Exams chal rhe hai na.”
Prateek raised an eyebrow. “And nothing else?”
“Nope,” she said, popping a fry into her mouth. “Birthday during exams is boring. har baar yhi hota hai”
He smiled to himself for a second, then leaned forward. “Then how about ham dono kal kahi bahar chale ghoomne shaam tak wapas aa jayenge jab cake cutting hogi tumhare ghar pe.”
She looked at him and nodded easily. “Yeah, we can. idea achha hai”
Satisfied, Prateek stood up. “Wait, I’ll get the order.”
As he walked toward the counter, Priya’s eyes absentmindedly followed him-until she noticed something that instantly changed her mood.
A group of girls sitting a few tables away were openly staring at Prateek. Whispering. Smiling. Not even trying to hide it.
Priya’s eyes narrowed.
“Ye mere Prateek pe dore daal rahi hain,” she muttered under her breath, annoyance bubbling up instantly.
By the time Prateek returned with the tray, Priya had already made up her mind.
“Aap idhar aaiye,” she said, patting the seat beside her.
Prateek frowned slightly, confused. “Why? What happened?” Still, he sat beside her.
The moment he did, Priya moved closer-much closer. She slipped an arm around his shoulders and rested her head against his chest as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
The reaction was instant. The girls across the café stiffened, their expressions visibly dropping.
Prateek, on the other hand, froze. His ears turned red as he looked down at Priya, heart suddenly racing.
“Kya ho gaya? Are you okay?” he asked, half worried, half completely flustered.
“Haan, I’m fine,” Priya replied casually, as if she wasn’t the reason his brain had stopped working. She picked up a fry, held it up to his lips, and said, “Eat.”
He obeyed without thinking.
Only then did he notice where her gaze had flickered-straight toward the group of girls. Understanding dawned on him slowly, and a teasing smile tugged at his lips.
“Ohhh,” he hummed softly. “Someone’s jealous.”
Priya immediately shook her head. “Nonsense.”
Prateek leaned closer, enjoying this far too much. “Look,” he said innocently, “they’re staring again.”
Priya instantly looked-and they were. Before she could overthink it, she cupped Prateek’s cheeks in her hands and placed a quick, possessive kiss on his cheek. and pateek’s world nearly stopped.
The girls gasped. Prateek went completely stiff, eyes wide, breath caught somewhere in his chest.
“He’s mine,” Priya whispered firmly, shooting a sharp look at the girls. They looked away immediately.
“Chaliye,” Priya said, grabbing Prateek’s hand and pulling him up. “We’re leaving.”
Prateek didn’t even protest. He just followed her out, still processing what had just happened.
Outside, the cold air hit them instantly.
“Huh,” Priya muttered in irritation. “Samajhti kya hain vo apne aap ko? Pehli baar koi handsome ladka dekha hai kya? Cheel ki tarah ghoor rahi thi.”
Prateek smiled to himself, then gently pulled her back, stopping her. He reached out and softly squished her cheeks.
“Aww,” he said fondly. “You were actually jealous. How cute.”
Priya glared at him, cheeks already warm. “Aur aapko maza bhi aa raha hai.”
“Obviously,” he replied shamelessly. “Agar vo mujhe roz aise dekhenge, aur tum roz mujhse chipkogi, mujhe kiss karogi… toh main kyun nahi chahunga ki ye roz ho?”
Her breath hitched instantly.
“Hawww… kitne gande ho aap,” she said, hitting his chest lightly.
He laughed and wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer until there was barely any space left. “Ganda kya? Sach hi toh bola.”
“Aap… aap kya kar rahe ho?” she asked, voice softer now, eyes refusing to meet his.
“Abhi toh kuch bhi nahi,” he said, leaning closer, his tone low and teasing. “Agar ijazat ho toh thoda sa kar loon?”
“K… kya?” Priya whispered.
“Kiss,” he said simply.
Her eyes widened-but before she could react, he leaned in and gently kissed her cheek. She turned completely red.
“Ab kaha gayi vo bold Priya?” he teased.
She didn’t answer. Instead, she hid her face in his chest, holding onto his jacket tightly, while Prateek smiled, feeling absurdly proud of himself-and very, very lucky.
__________________
It was a quiet winter evening, the kind that carried the weight of the year coming to an end. The cold had settled deep into the streets, fog curling lazily around streetlights. Aditi pulled her jacket tighter around herself as she reached Priya’s house.
As soon as she entered, warmth greeted her. She greeted the elders politely before making her way upstairs, her steps quick, eager to escape the cold.
The door creaked open.
“Aa gayi tu?” Priya said, looking up from her books.
“Haan aa gayi,” Aditi replied, shivering dramatically. “Bohot thand ho rahi hai yaar… razai de jaldi.”
Without waiting for permission, she slipped under the blanket Priya was already wrapped in, curling up beside her.
“Haan aa ja, aa ja,” Priya laughed, adjusting the blanket to cover them both.
For a while, the room was filled with the rustling of pages, pens scratching against notebooks, and the muffled sounds of winter outside. But Aditi’s eyes kept drifting away from the book in front of her. Her mind wasn’t on formulas or notes it was somewhere else entirely.
She shifted slightly, pretending to read, then finally spoke, as casually as she could manage.
“Tere bhaiya kahaan hain?” aditi asked out of nowhere
Priya didn’t look up. “Library gaye hue hain.”
Aditi frowned almost instantly. “Abhi bhi?”
“Haan.” priya simply said.
“Kyun?” Aditi asked, her tone sharper than she intended.
Priya glanced at her then, noticing the concern written clearly on her face. “Arey, NDA ki book sirf library mein hi available hai na. Isliye.”
Aditi’s brows knitted together. “Toh kharid lete na… itni thand mein itni door jaana zaroori hai kya?” Her voice softened midway, worry slipping through no matter how hard she tried to hide it.
Priya sighed lightly, setting her pen down. “Wahi toh baat hai. Vo book kahin mil hi nahi rahi. Har jagah out of stock hai. Isliye bhaiya ko roz library jaana padta hai.”
Aditi nodded slowly, but the concern didn’t leave her eyes. She pulled the blanket tighter around herself, as if imagining how cold it must be outside.
Priya watched her quietly for a second, a small knowing smile forming on her lips. “Tu padhne aayi thi ya bhaiya ke baare mein sochne?”
Aditi looked away instantly. “Aisa kuch nahi hai,” she muttered, but her grip on the blanket tightened.
Yet even as she tried to focus back on her books, her thoughts stayed with him sitting alone in a quiet library, wrapped in his jacket, determinedly chasing a dream that mattered more to him than comfort.
The warmth of the house slowly replaced the sharp bite of the cold outside. The smell of freshly brewed chai filled the hall as Kriti called them over for snacks. Aditi and Priya settled onto the floor mat, plates in hand, the clinking of cups and soft laughter blending with the hum of conversation.
Aditi, mid-bite of a mathri, shook her head dramatically. “Aunty, I’m telling you ye bilkul bhi lunch nahi khati,” she complained, pointing straight at Priya. “Hamesha zabardasti khilana padta hai.”
“Haina,” Kiran agreed instantly, sipping her chai. “Ghar pe bhi kaha khati hai ye.”
“Kya yaar mummy, jhooth kyu bol rahi ho,” Priya protested, nudging Aditi with her elbow.
“Haan haan, tu hi toh ek sach bolti hai bas,” Kriti teased from the side, earning an exaggerated groan from Priya.
Their laughter was still echoing when the sound of the main door closing reached them. Aditi’s head lifted almost instinctively. Ansh had returned.
For a second, everything else faded. He stood near the doorway, jacket still on, hair slightly tousled from the cold, eyes calm yet tired in a way only someone chasing a dream relentlessly could look. As soon as his gaze lifted and met Aditi’s, she straightened without realizing it, fixing her posture, suddenly very aware of herself.
“Aa gaya tu beta?” Kiran said warmly, getting up.
Ansh smiled softly and nodded. “Haan, maa.”
“Aaja, baith ja. Chai laati hoon,” Kriti said, already heading towards the kitchen.
He came and sat down on the mat in front of Aditi and Priya, legs folded neatly, movements quiet and composed. He picked up a mathri, completely at ease, as if the long walk to the library in freezing weather was just another part of his routine.
“Kar liya aaj ka quota poora padhai ka?” Kiran asked teasingly.
“Haan maa,” Ansh replied calmly. “Bas thodi revision baaki hai.”
“Bas bhi kar diya kar kabhi-kabhi,” Kiran sighed. “Pata nahi kisne tujhe ye army ka bhoot chadha diya.”
“Apke hi bhai ne chadhaya hai,” Priya chimed in from behind him, grinning. “Aur kisi ko kya bol rahi ho aap.”
Ansh chuckled under his breath, shaking his head slightly.
“Matlab?” Aditi asked, genuinely curious, her eyes never leaving Ansh’s face.
Kiran laughed, settling back down. “Arey beta, kya bataun main tujhe. Ye jo itna shaant head boy hai na tumhara bachpan mein itna shararti tha, kisi se sambhalta hi nahi tha. Bas apne mama ke paas jaake hi shaant hota tha.”
“Aur mama toh vaise bhi army mein hain,” Priya added eagerly. “Poora-poora din army ki baatein, parade pe le jaana, drills dikhana… tabhi se inko bhoot chadha hai mama jaise banne ka.”
“Haan,” Kiran continued fondly, “aaj bhi unse milta hai toh pair nahi chuega pehle, salute karega. Pagal.”
She lightly smacked Ansh’s arm, smiling.
“Maa, bas bhi kijiye,” Ansh said, embarrassed, hugging her from the side.
“Mann toh karta hai usko bhi maarun aur isko bhi,” Kiran muttered playfully, tapping his shoulder before kissing the top of his head. “Nalayak kahi ka.”
Just then, Kriti returned, placing a cup of chai in front of Ansh. “Ye le.”
“Thank you Chachi ji,” Ansh said politely.
“Hatt,” she scolded affectionately, smacking his arm. “Chachi ko thank you bolega.”
Their laughter filled the room again.
Aditi sat quietly through it all, her fingers wrapped around her cup, her eyes unconsciously tracing Ansh’s every movement. The way he listened patiently. The way he smiled softly but didn’t interrupt. The discipline in his posture, even while sitting casually. The calm certainty in his voice when he talked about studying no complaints, no drama.
She thought about him walking to the library every day in this cold, refusing to buy an expensive book, trusting himself enough to manage with the library copy. About the way his dream wasn’t loud or showy, but steady, rooted, and unshakable.
There was something incredibly attractive about that kind of determination.
A few moments later, Aditi glanced at her phone and her smile softened. The time had slipped by without her realizing it. and ansh looked at her.
“Okay aunty, I should leave now,” she said, getting up. “It’s already quite late.”
“Arre, but how will you go alone?” Kiran asked immediately, worry lining her face. “It’s so dark outside.”
“I’ll manage, aunty,” Aditi replied gently.
“Manage kaise?” Priya jumped in dramatically. “Bhaiya aap drop kar do isko vrna kho gyi to naya siyappa.”
She winked at Aditi, who shot her a sharp glare, cheeks already warming. and ansh’s ears warming up instantly.
“Haan beta, chhod aao,” Kiran said firmly. “Andhera ho gaya hai.”
Ansh nodded without hesitation.
“Ja ja,” Priya whispered into Aditi’s ear as she passed her. “Go spend some quality time.”
Aditi turned even redder, mumbling something incoherent as she followed Ansh out.
“Aram se jaana,” Kriti called from behind.
“Ji aunty, thank you….bye!” Aditi waved, smiling brightly.
Outside, the cold hit them instantly. The streetlights glowed softly as Ansh rolled his bike forward and adjusted it.
“Baitho,” he said simply.
Aditi hesitated for a second before sitting behind him, lightly holding his shoulders for balance.
“Chaliye,” she said, gripping the back handle again.
Ansh glanced back slightly. “Tumhe thand nahi lag rahi?”
“Kyun?” she asked, confused.
“Mujhe lag rahi hai,” he replied casually, a teasing lilt in his voice. “So… maybe you could leave that handle and hold me instead?”
Aditi froze.
“Oh,” she whispered, nerves fluttering wildly, and carefully placed her hands on his shoulders.
“Ab theek hai?” she asked softly.
Ansh chuckled under his breath. Then, very gently, he took her hands and guided them around his waist, settling them there with quiet assurance.
“Now it’s perfect,” he said, meeting her eyes briefly in the rear-view mirror.
Aditi’s face burned at the closeness, her heart thudding loudly, while Ansh started the bike far too aware of her warmth behind him. The ride itself was calm, almost unreal. The cold air brushed past them, the road smooth and quiet.
After a while, Aditi relaxed. She tightened her hold slightly and rested her head against his back, trusting, comfortable. Ansh felt it instantly. A small smile tugged at his lips, his ears turning pink, but he said nothing just drove a little more carefully.
When they reached her house, Aditi hopped off and took a step back, ready to go inside.
“Isha Wait,” Ansh said. She turned.
“Don’t you think you’re forgetting something?” he asked, arms crossed, eyes glinting with mischief.
She frowned, genuinely confused. “No? What am I forgetting?”
“socho socho,” he prompted. “You owed me something… to compensate for scolding me.”
“Oh!” Realization dawned. “sorry, sorry.”
Before he could say anything else, Aditi stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him tightly. Ansh stiffened for half a second, then melted into the hug, arms circling her back, breathing in her familiar warmth.
When they pulled apart, she looked up at him with a playful smile. “Now fine, sir?” He nodded immediately, satisfied.
“Actually,” Ansh said, his tone changing, softer now, more serious. “I wanted to ask you something.”
“poochiye,” Aditi said.
“Do you ever feel uncomfortable around me?” he asked quietly. “I know you don’t usually like physical touch. So when we hold hands… or hug, are you really comfortable, or do you do it just for me?”
The sincerity in his eyes made her chest ache in the best way.
“Look at me,” she said, cupping his cheeks gently. He held her wrists instinctively, grounding himself.
“You could never make me uncomfortable,” she said honestly. “With you, I feel safe. Like no one can hurt me anymore. I feel like I can just… be myself. And just like everything of yours feels mine and main bhi toh aapki hi hoon.”
Ansh swallowed, eyes softening even more.
“Still,” he said gently, “if there’s ever anything you don’t like, you’ll tell me. We’ll stop right there.”
She nodded. “Okay.”
Then she smiled and squished his cheeks lightly. “Good night. Bye. Love you boht saaaraa,” she said, stretching her arms wide.
He laughed softly, mirroring her gesture. “Good night. Love you usse bhi jyada.”
Aditi giggled and ran inside, not looking back.
Ansh stood there for a moment longer, heart full, before finally turning his bike around riding home with a smile that refused to fade
___________
The evening at Ruhaan’s house felt unusually warm one of those quiet, comforting evenings where the cold stayed outside and laughter stayed in. Soft yellow lights glowed in the kitchen, and the faint aroma of boiling milk slowly filled the house.
Shagun stood beside the kitchen counter, sleeves rolled up, hair loosely tied back, listening attentively as Riya moved around with practiced ease. There was something calming about watching her like being wrapped in familiarity Shagun hadn’t realized she was missing so badly.
“Aunty… the milk is boiling over. What do I do now?” Shagun asked, slightly panicked as she hovered over the stove.
Riya glanced over and smiled. “Now add the rice the soaked one. The same bowl you kept aside.”
“Okay,” Shagun nodded quickly, grabbing the bowl and carefully adding the rice, stirring with full concentration.
Just then, dramatic footsteps echoed as Ruhaan barged into the kitchen, holding his stomach.
“Yaar, mummy… how much time will this take? bhook lag rhi haii,” he whined, leaning dramatically against the doorframe.
Riya didn’t even look at him. “sabar rakh le thoda…pet hai ki pitara? You already ate so many samosas.”
“I didn’t eat that many,” Ruhaan protested. “Just one. aur vo bhi kitna time hogya khaye hue.”
Shagun turned around, spoon in hand. “Half an hour more. Relax. Your stomach isn’t going to burst.”
“It will burst,” Ruhaan said with full seriousness. “Kheer is like… my jaan. Please make it fast.”
Riya slowly turned, picked up the belan resting on the counter, and raised it threateningly. “Your jaan?teri jaan to main nikalungi ab ruk ja tu!.”
“Maate!” Ruhaan yelped, instantly backing away. “I was joking take your time, full time, no hurry at all.”
The kitchen fell silent for half a second before Shagun burst out laughing, the sound light and genuine. She covered her mouth, eyes crinkling as she looked between mother and son.
Riya shook her head, smiling to herself, while Ruhaan grinned proudly clearly satisfied with making her laugh
Time slipped by comfortably, and the kitchen slowly filled with the sweet, nutty aroma of kheer thickening on the stove. The milk had reduced perfectly, rice soft and creamy, cardamom floating gently on top. Shagun stood beside Riya aunty, stirring occasionally, their conversation drifting from random stories to small laughs that felt homely and warm.
Meanwhile, Ruhaan had claimed his spot on the countertop, legs swinging impatiently, two bowls already placed neatly beside him like trophies waiting to be filled. He leaned forward, peeking into the pot with exaggerated curiosity.
“Yaar mummy… kaaju nahi the kya?” he asked, squinting as if inspecting a science experiment.
Riya frowned slightly. “The toh… par mil nahi rahe.”
Ruhaan’s eyes lit up instantly. “Arey! Woh toh aapke room mein rakhe hue hain. Maine subah dekhe the.”
Riya turned, suspicious. “Wahan kaun le gaya?”
Ruhaan flashed an innocent grin. “Main hi le gaya tha mummy.”
“Nalayak,” Riya muttered, shaking her head as she wiped her hands and walked out to fetch them.
The moment she disappeared, the kitchen fell quieter just the soft bubbling of kheer and the hum of the exhaust. Ruhaan turned his head slowly toward Shagun, eyes sparkling with mischief.
“Oiii,” he poked her side lightly.
“Kya hai,” Shagun whispered sharply, narrowing her eyes.
“Kissi,” he said, pouting exaggeratedly like a stubborn child.
“Pagal ho kya?” she hissed, smacking his arm softly. “Aunty aa jayengi!”
“Nahi aayengi itni jaldi,” he said confidently and before she could react, he leaned in and planted a quick, warm kiss on her cheek.
Shagun froze, eyes wide, breath caught mid-second.
Ruhaan pulled back instantly, grinning. “Dekha? Nahi aayi na.”
Before Shagun could even process what just happened, Riya aunty’s voice echoed again as she re-entered the kitchen. “Arre, mil hi nahi rahi wahan pe”
Shagun straightened up so fast it was almost comical, her cheeks burning.
“Wahi pe hai, mummy. Chalo, main deta hoon,” Ruhaan said smoothly, hopping down and walking past her as if nothing had happened.
But just as he was about to leave, Shagun grabbed the collar at the back of his neck, pulling him down slightly and whispering fiercely into his ear, “Agli baar aisi harkat ki na… toh dekh lungi tumhe.”
Ruhaan’s lips curved into a slow, teasing smile. He raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying her flustered anger and before she could stop him, he leaned in again and kissed her quickly, softer this time, stealing the moment.
“thoda ruk jao,” he whispered challengingly, stepping back.
Shagun stood stunned, heart racing, words completely gone.
Ruhaan chuckled under his breath. “Araam se dekh lena,” he added, eyes twinkling. “Akele mein… I’m fully yours.”
With a playful wink, he turned and walked away, leaving Shagun standing there, shocked, flustered, and very aware of how loudly her heart was beating while the kheer bubbled away like nothing had happened at all.
_________________
The next few days passed quietly yet happily. The laughter hadn’t vanished, but it had softened wrapped under timetables, revision schedules, and the unspoken pressure of exams inching closer. Everyone knew it was time to be serious now.
That evening, Aditi walked into the library with a purpose she had been holding onto for days.
The familiar silence welcomed her, broken only by the faint turning of pages and the scratch of pens against paper. Her eyes scanned the room almost instinctively, and within seconds she found him.
Ansh was sitting at a corner table, shoulders slightly hunched, completely engrossed. Books were spread around him like a small battlefield, NDA guides, rough sheets filled with formulas, margins crowded with neat notes. His pen moved steadily, brows furrowed in concentration, jaw set with determination. He looked calm, focused… driven.
Aditi’s heart softened at the sight. Without wasting a second, she walked up to him and slid into the chair beside him.
“Hii,” she wispered cheerfully.
Ansh startled slightly, as if pulled out of a deep thought. He looked at her, eyes widening for a split second before recognition settled in.
She raised an eyebrow. “Maine hii bola… at least hello toh boliye.”
Her mock-offended tone snapped him fully back to reality.
“Hii—sorry,” he said quickly, a little flustered. “Woh thoda…” He stopped himself, ears turning a faint shade of red.
Aditi smiled knowingly. “Haan haan, pata hai. Aap thoda kho gaye the meri khoobsurti mein.” She said it with playful pride, chin lifting slightly.
Ansh let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head. He leaned a little closer and whispered, “Thoda nahi… bohot.”
Under the table, his fingers found hers slow, sure, and warm. He intertwined their hands effortlessly, like it was the most natural thing in the world.
Aditi sucked in a quiet breath, her cheeks warming instantly. She didn’t pull away.
Instead, she glanced at the books spread in front of him. “Kitna hua?”
“Bas hone wala hai,” he replied softly, eyes flicking between her face and the page, clearly torn.
Before either of them could say more, a firm voice echoed from the front desk. “Please maintain silence.”
Both of them immediately straightened, biting back smiles. Aditi pressed her lips together to stop herself from laughing, while Ansh nodded innocently toward the librarian.
They bent back over their books, pretending to focus pens moving, pages turning.
But beneath the table, their hands remained tightly intertwined.
After a while, they finished their work, packed their bags, and stepped out of the library together. The evening had deepened into a quiet winter calm. Streetlights glowed softly, and the cold air brushed against their faces as they walked side by side, their steps naturally falling into the same rhythm.
They hadn’t gone far when Aditi suddenly stopped.
“Oh shittt,” she muttered, slapping her forehead lightly. “Main bhool hi gayi thi ki main kis kaam se aayi thi.”
Before Ansh could ask anything, she quickly opened her bag, rummaging through it with urgency. His brows furrowed in confusion as he watched her, until she finally pulled something out.
A book. Not just any book. That book.
She held it out toward him. “Yeh lijiye.”
For a second, Ansh just stared at it. His mind refused to register what his eyes were seeing. Slowly, he took the book from her hands, turning it over once, then again, as if it might disappear if he didn’t check.
“Yeh… tum kahaan se laayi?” he asked, genuinely stunned.
Aditi crossed her arms and puffed her chest out proudly. “Kahaan se laayi ka kya matlab? Aap bhool rahe hain shayad, there is nothing impossible in this world for your Isha.”
Her confidence made him smile, but concern quickly replaced it.
“I know that,” he said softly, eyes still on the book, “but how did you even get this? It was out of stock everywhere. Aur upar se… it’s expensive. Tumne itne paise kyun kharch kiye?”
Aditi shrugged casually, as if it were the most normal thing in the world. “Arey itna bhi kuch nhi kiya. Papa ki jaan-pehchaan mein ek stationery hai. Wahan almost saari books mil jaati hain. Maine unse bola, toh unhone arrange kar di.”
Ansh looked at her, guilt creeping into his eyes. “But still… it was expensive.”
She stopped walking and turned to face him fully. Her expression softened, but her voice didn’t hesitate. “Not more than your health.”
That single sentence hit him harder than anything else could have.
She continued, words flowing with quiet concern. “Aap itni thand mein roz itni door library aate ho. Upar se school mein poora din aap naak sikodte rehte ho jaise sardi se lad rahe ho. It’s dangerous. Agar aap bimaar pad gaye toh exam kaise doge? NDA koi mazaak thodi hai.”
She looked genuinely upset now not angry, just worried.
Ansh swallowed. “But tumhe yeh sab karne ki kya zarurat thi?”
Aditi narrowed her eyes slightly, placing her hands on her hips. “You call me your Isha, right?” He nodded instinctively.
“then you should quietly do as I say,” she said firmly. “Main aapko bimaaar hone se protect kar rahi hoon. Aur ab koi arguments nahi warna main gussa ho jaungi.” Her tone left absolutely no room for debate.
She gently pushed the book into his hands again. “Ab yeh rakhiye. Aur ghar pe hi padhai kijiye. Is thand mein roz library aane ki koi zarurat nahi. Understood?”
Ansh straightened immediately, standing almost at attention. “Yes ma’am. Understood.”
She laughed, shaking her head. “Good boy. Keep it up.”
Before he could react, she reached up and ruffled his hair lightly. Ansh just stood there, grinning like an idiot.
Inside, his chest felt impossibly full. No one had ever looked out for him like this not with such quiet thoughtfulness, not with such certainty. She hadn’t done it for praise, or to prove anything. She’d done it because she cared. Because she noticed. Because his dreams mattered to her.
_________________
The arrival gate was crowded with voices, trolley wheels, and soft announcements echoing through the airport. Amidst all that chaos stood Samaira, bouncing slightly on her feet, holding a handmade board above her head.
“WELCOME BACK, ZINDA STATUE “
People passing by gave her amused looks. She didn’t care. Her eyes were fixed on the glass doors, searching. And then, she saw him.
Aman walked out with his bag slung over one shoulder, looking tired, travel-worn… and very real. The moment his eyes landed on the board, he froze for half a second, then a slow smile spread across his face. A chuckle escaped him before he could stop it.
“Zinda statue?” he muttered to himself, shaking his head. “Seriously?”
Before he could even lift his hand to wave, Samaira dropped the board on the floor and ran completely unfiltered, unplanned, unstoppable.
“Aman!” she practically screamed at top of her lungs.
She crashed into him, arms wrapping around his waist tightly, her face buried into his chest like she’d been waiting to do this forever. Aman barely had time to react before instinct took over. He wrapped his arms around her and lifted her slightly, spinning her around once, twice right there in the middle of the airport.
For a moment, everything else blurred.
“I missed you,” Samaira said breathlessly, her voice muffled but full.
Aman rested his forehead against her hair. “You have no idea how much I missed you.”
She pulled back just enough to look at him, eyes scanning his face like she was checking if he was still the same person. Her smile faded into a frown.
“Tum… patle ho gaye ho,” she said accusingly. “London jaake khana bhool gaye kya?”
Before he could reply, she did something so Samaira that his brain short-circuited.
She reached forward and lifted the hem of his T-shirt slightly. Aman’s eyes widened in pure shock.
“Samaira—!” he hissed, quickly grabbing her wrist. “What are you doing?”
Her eyes were still focused, as if genuinely inspecting. “Bas check kar rahi thi… abs abhi bhi theek hai ya nahi”
“Aree sab log dekh rahe hain!” Aman whispered urgently, his ears turning bright red. He looked around nervously people were staring. Some amused. Some curious. Some very aware.
“Car mein kar lena yeh sab,” he added quickly, mortified. “Yahaan nahi.”
That’s when it hit her. Samaira’s eyes flickered around too and the reality crashed in.
they are at Airport a Public place surrounded by Dozens of people lots of Security guardsand among then she saw A kid staring directly at them. Her face went crimson.
“Oh my God,” she breathed, immediately dropping her hands like they were burning. “Main main sorry.”
She turned her face away, suddenly very interested in the floor. “Mujhe laga bas hum hi hain.”
Aman laughed softly despite himself, embarrassment still crawling up his neck. He adjusted his T-shirt, clearing his throat leaning towards her with a teasing smirk on his face. “Tumhara hi hoon yaar, koi aur touch bhi nhi kar skta thoda to pacience rakho car main chalo sab dikhata hu”
She peeked at him from the corner of her eye. “shut up Aman….aur tease mat karo vrna chodungi nhi tumko”
He smiled, warmth replacing the awkwardness. “pahle pakdo to, chodne ki baad main sochenge.”
They stood there for a second longer both flustered, both smiling like idiots, both very aware of how much they’d missed each other… and how little self-control they had when together
_________________
The amusement park buzzed with loud music, flashing lights, and the excited screams of people on rides. The moment the group entered through the huge gate, the younger gang practically lost their minds. As it was a weekend and since Aman had returned back for holidays they had decieded to spend it in amusement park.
“LIST BANATE HAIN!” Vivaan announced dramatically, spreading his arms.
“Har ride. Ek bhi miss nahi honi chahiye,atleast ik ik baar to sab try karenge” Ruhaan added with full seriousness, already scanning the map like it was a battlefield plan.
“Sabse pehle roller coaster!” Samaira said, eyes shining.
“Uske baad giant wheel,” Shagun chimed in.
“And haunted house,” Riva added confidently.
Ansh shook his head, amused, watching their chaos. “Abhi exams ke time itna ethusiasm kaha chup gaya tha tum logo ka”
“Ansh bhaiya please,” Priya cut him off. “Aaj sirf fun. no lecture “
Aditi smiled softly, standing beside Ansh, enjoying how relaxed he looked today no books, no pressure, just laughter around him.
As they walked further inside, the teasing began as expected.
Vivaan glanced at Riva, smirking. “Waise Riva… Shivank ko nahi bulaya? Bechara dar jaata kya roller coaster se?”
Riva stopped walking and turned sharply. “Excuse me? Shivank is not scared of rides, okay?”
“Achha?” Vivaan raised an eyebrow. “Par mujhe to lagta hai giant wheel ke upar jaake ‘mummy’ chillata hoga.”
Ruhaan let out a laugh. “ye phir pitega.”
“Tum apna kaam dekho,” Riva snapped. “At least woh tumhari tarah bina matlab ke bakwas nahi karta.”
Vivaan placed a hand on his chest, fake-hurt. “OHOOOO. Itna pyaar. mujhe fakeness ki boo aa rhi hai tumhare iss insta boyfriend se”
“That’s it,” Riva said, pointing at him. “One more word and I’m pushing you from the drop tower.”
Vivaan leaned closer, completely unbothered, and right before turning away he stuck his tongue out at her like a five-year-old.
Riva’s jaw dropped. “Are you SERIOUS right now?!”
The entire group burst out laughing.
“God, he’s so annoying,” Riva muttered, folding her arms.
_________________
The moment they stopped in front of the giant pendulum boat ride, the younger gang’s faces lit up like they had just unlocked their biggest dream of the day.
The massive boat swung back and forth in the air, climbing higher with every turn. Screams echoed around them some terrified, some thrilled. Colorful lights flashed against the evening sky, making the whole ride look even more tempting.
“YEH!” Aditi shouted suddenly, pointing at it with sparkling eyes. “Sabse pehle yeh.”
Vivaan clapped his hands excitedly. “Full swing wala. Mazza aayega!”
“Haa mast lag raha hai… poora thrilling,” Priya said, craning her neck to watch the boat rise higher. “Look at that height!”
Ansh didn’t even wait a second. “Nahi. Yeh wala nahi,” he said firmly.
Vivaan turned to him, utterly offended. “Kya hai yaar bhaiya? Itna sahi to hai!”
Aman frowned, watching the boat swing almost upside down. “It looks… scary.”
“Ghanta scary,” Samaira snapped, hands on her hips. “Itna mazedaar lag raha hai. Ab yahi wala try karenge hum sab.”
“I’m with didi,” Shagun said immediately, stepping beside her.
“Hum bhi,” Aditi added without hesitation.
Vivaan, Priya, Ruhaan, and Riva joined them one by one, forming a very clear team all eyes now fixed on the boys.
Ansh, Prateek, and Aman exchanged looks.
Samaira tilted her head innocently. “Okkk… tum teeno ko nahi aana? Koi baat nahi. Hum hi chale jaayenge.”
She turned dramatically toward the ride, as if ready to leave them behind. That did it.
“Bhaiya dar gaye lagta hai,” Aditi teased Prateek, trying hard not to laugh.
Prateek straightened instantly. “Aisa nahi hai ji,” he said quickly. “Main bhi aaunga.”
Aman let out a helpless sigh. “Haan… hum bhi chalte hain. Akele neeche khade reh ke kya karenge.”
Ansh closed his eyes for a brief second, then nodded in defeat. “Fine. Chalo.”
The younger gang exploded in excitement.
“YAYYYYY!” they screamed together, jumping in happiness.
As they walked toward the queue, the younger ones chatted animatedly about how amazing it would be, while the elders walked a little slower glancing up at the ride again and again, already questioning every life decision that led them there.
_________________
As the gang finally settled onto the pendulum boat, the excitement slowly turned into nervous energy.
Aditi sat beside Ansh, carefully pulling the safety bar down while double-checking the belt like her life depended on it. Ansh noticed and quietly leaned in.
“Relax… it’s locked properly,” he said softly, still fastening his own belt.
Prateek sat next to Priya, gently helping her with the buckle. “Ho gaya?” he asked.
“Haan… but tight zyada hai,” Priya muttered, making him smile as he adjusted it again.
Samaira and Aman sat together, Samaira already grinning like she was born for this ride, while Aman let out a slow breath, mentally preparing himself.
Ruhaan and Shagun were busy bickering.
“Agar tum chillaye na, I swear” Shagun warned.
“Main nahi chillata,” Ruhaan lied confidently.
Riva took her seat, only to realize Vivaan had very intentionally sat beside her.
“Don’t worry,” Vivaan said proudly, puffing his chest. “Darr lage to mujhe pakad lena.”
Riva rolled her eyes so hard it could’ve been an Olympic sport. “Dream on.”
The ride started moving slowly. Just a gentle sway.
“Huh,” Aditi muttered, relaxing a little. “Itna slow hai. Khama-kha log darr rahe the.”
“Kaafi slow chala rahe hain, na?” Samaira said to Aman.
Aman nodded, still gripping the bar. “Haan… thoda zyada hi safe.”
“Arre uncleeee,” Vivaan shouted confidently, “thoda tez karo yaar! Mazza nahi aa raha!”
Ansh turned his head sharply. “Vivaan “
Too late. The ride suddenly picked up speed. The boat swung higher. And higher.
“AAAAAAAAAA—” Everyone screamed at once.
Aditi’s soul left her body.
“MAMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY—AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” she screamed as the boat dropped, instantly burying her face into Ansh’s neck and clutching him like a lifeline.
Ansh, startled for half a second, immediately wrapped one arm around her, securing her against his chest. “Hey…..hey…..got you,” he said, half laughing, half trying to calm her.
“BHAGWAAN JI GALTI HO GAYI—” Aditi screamed again as the boat swung back.
“AAJ TO KHEL KHATAM—MAMMYYYYYY!”
She held him even tighter, her entire existence now limited to Ansh’s hoodie.
Ansh couldn’t help it he laughed. Not mocking, just… fond. “Abhi to bol rahi thi slow hai,” he teased gently, even as he shielded her.
“CHUPPPPPP RAHIYEEEE!” she yelled into his shoulder. “MUJHE ZAMEEN PE UTARO!”
Each drop made her gasp louder, and each time, Ansh held her closer, steady, protective eyes soft as he watched her terrified expressions.
“She’s adorable,” he thought, smiling despite the chaos.
Meanwhile, on their side of the ride, Priya and Prateek were having a full-on meltdown but in the most hilarious way.
Priya had her arms wrapped tightly around Prateek, clinging to him for support as the ride swung violently. Every sudden drop made her scream like a banshee. “MAMMYYYYYYYYY!” she shrieked, burying her face into his chest for protection.
Prateek, meanwhile, was trembling so badly it was a miracle he was still seated. “Mujhe koi utaraaaa…pleaseee!” he wailed, shutting his eyes tight as if sheer willpower could stop the ride.
“Kooii roko isse…AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” he yelled, voice cracking, arms gripping the safety bar and Priya at the same time.
Priya, still clutching his hands like her life depended on it, pleaded dramatically, “Saare bure kaam chod dungi…Bhagwaan jii, zinda jaane dooooo!”
Prateek’s face was red, teeth clenched, and he was muttering every curse and prayer combination he could think of under his breath. Priya, meanwhile, peeked through her fingers just long enough to see his panicked expression, which made her let out a small nervous laugh, quickly stifled as the ride swung back up.
On the other side, Vivaan, who had been claiming all along that he wasn’t scared “even a bit,” was now completely undone, gripping Riva like his life depended on it.
“MAMMMMMYYYYYYY… PAPAAAAAAA… koi to bachaa lo!” he screamed at the top of his lungs, eyes wide with pure terror.
Riva, meanwhile, was holding onto the side bars for dear life, her face a mix of panic and frustration. “Mujhe chodo yrrr… meri phat rahi hai… main mukka maar dungi!” she shouted, glaring at Vivaan while shaking her head.
Vivaan’s arms tightened around her instinctively. “Meri phatttt chukiii haiii… UNCLE YRRR ROK DO PLEASEEEEEEEEE!” he begged, voice cracking as he pleaded with the ride operator, his knees practically knocking together.
Riva shot him a teasing look through her panic. “Mujhe to bada bol rhe the na… darte nahi ho?”
Vivaan’s teeth clenched and his eyes went wide again. “Galti hogyi yrrr… boht darr lag raha hai… uncle rokk doooo… badla mat lo aisee!” he admitted, trembling like a leaf, voice half desperation, half embarrassment, as Riva just smirked at him despite her own fear, enjoying how the mighty Vivaan was reduced to a screaming mess.
On the other side, Ruhaan had clutched Shagun tightly, his face pale and eyes wide, while Shagun was absolutely loving every second of the ride.
“Whooooooooo… faster!” Shagun screamed, laughter bubbling out as her hair flew wildly in the wind, her hands gripping Ruhaan’s firmly but playfully.
“Ye kam fast hai kyaaa?!” Ruhaan yelled, panic dripping from his voice as the ride swung higher and higher.
“MAMMMMMYYYY… UTAAAROO MUJHEE… NHI ZULNA ISPEEE!” he shrieked, kicking his legs in pure terror.
“Are chill karo yrr… kitna maza aa raha haiii!” Shagun laughed, holding him steady, her excitement infectious, trying to calm him down while clearly having the time of her life.
“Mujhe maut aa rahi haiiii…” Ruhaan wailed, voice trembling, as he buried his face a little into her shoulder for support, his whole body shaking with fear.
Meanwhile, Aman had taken Samaira’s hand, and though they were swinging high in the air, both of them were laughing and screaming in pure joy. “I’m loving itt!” Aman shouted, while Samaira’s hair whipped around her face.
“Dekha, maine kaha tha…!” Samaira yelled back, her eyes sparkling, as they held onto each other tightly, every swing making them scream and laugh in equal measure, enjoying the thrill together
_________________
The moment the pendulum ride finally slowed down and came to a stop, the entire boat let out a collective mix of relieved sighs, nervous laughs, and shaky breaths.
People climbed down one by one some with legs still wobbling, some laughing like maniacs, some questioning their life choices.
Prateek stepped down carefully, holding the railing like it was his last lifeline. “B-bach gayeee…” he whispered dramatically, exhaling as if he’d just survived a war.
Priya immediately joined her hands and looked up at the sky. “Thank you Bhagwaan ji… aaj ke baad aapke liye extra diya jalaungi,” she said sincerely, still breathless.
Aditi jumped down next, face pale, hair all over the place. “Bas. Decision final,” she announced. “Ab se main kabhi bhi ispe nahi baithungi.”
Ansh, on the other hand, was laughing freely full open laughter, eyes crinkled, clearly enjoying every second of her dramatic trauma.
Aditi shot him a glare. “Zyada hasi aa rahi hai?”
Ansh instantly zipped his lips, straightened up. “Sorry.”
Beat. Then he failed again and turned away, shoulders shaking while controlling his laugh.
On the other side, Riva tried to pull her hand free. “Mujhe chodo yaar!”
Vivaan, however, was still clinging to her arm like he was mentally still on the ride. “Do minute ruk jao… please,” he said desperately. “Mind stable hone do, sab kuch abhi bhi ghoom raha hai.”
Riva rolled her eyes, half-annoyed, half-amused. “Kitne irritating ho yrr tum?”
Ruhaan, meanwhile, was already walking straight toward the exit gate like a man on a mission. “Ghar chalo bhai… mera ho gaya,” he declared. “Ab mujhe kisi bhi jhoole pe nahi baithna.”
Before he could escape, Shagun grabbed the back of his hoodie and yanked him back. “Pagal ho gaye ho kya?” she scolded. “₹700 diye hai per person. Bina theek se jhoole kahin nahi jaane wale hum.”
Ruhaan stared at her in disbelief.”Tum meri maut ka paisa vasool karna chahti ho?”
Samaira clapped her hands excitedly, eyes sparkling.”Chalo, next haunted house chalte hain!”
“HAAN!” Shagun agreed instantly, already pulling Ruhaan along.
Laughing, teasing, dragging one another, the whole group slowly made their way toward the next queue,
The moment it was their turn, the group stepped inside the haunted house, and the door slammed shut behind them with a loud thud.
Pure. Pitch. Darkness.
“Kuch bhi dikh nahi raha. Na aage, na peeche, na upar.” prateek said
“Thodi lights hi laga dete, kuch dikhta to, poora black bl—” Vivaan was mid-rant when
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA” His sentence transformed into a full-volume scream as something suddenly grabbed his hand.
“CHODO— mujhe chodo! MAMMMMYYYYYYYY!” Vivaan shrieked, jumping on the spot, shaking his hand violently like it had caught fire.
“AHHHHHHH!”
The entire group screamed together as a tall, horrifying figure in costume appeared out of nowhere, lights flashing on its twisted face.
“BHAAGOOOO!” someone yelled (no one knew who). And just like that, chaos erupted.
Everyone ran in random directions, colliding, tripping, screaming, grabbing onto the nearest human body they could find family, friend, enemy, didn’t matter.
Ansh instantly caught Aditi’s hand, gripping it tightly like it was the only solid thing left in the universe.
“Don’t let go,” he said firmly, though his own voice wasn’t exactly calm.
“AHHHHH… mamyyyyy!” Aditi suddenly screamed when something brushed past her arm. She jumped instantly, clinging to Ansh with full force, face buried into his chest, arms wrapped around him like a koala.
“Hey…hey….shhh…” Ansh whispered quickly, holding her tighter, panic rising. Then, without seeing anyone at all, he blurted out nervously, “Uncle chhod do isko bhi… aur merko bhi.”
There was no uncle. No one responded. Complete silence except their heavy breathing.
“Gaya kya?” Aditi whispered shakily, still not letting go, fingers digging into his jacket.
“Pata nahiii,” Ansh replied honestly, eyes wide, scanning the darkness while hugging her protectively.
Somewhere far behind them, Vivaan’s voice echoed again “MUJHE CHOD DO YRRR…..MAMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!”
And just when everyone thought it couldn’t get worse, the haunted house proved them very, very wrong.
“KUTTEEE CHOD— main mukka maar dungiii!” Samaira screamed when something suddenly grabbed Aman’s arm, who was already halfway to losing his soul.
“Aaaahhhhhh!” Aman yelled, frozen in place, eyes wide, legs refusing to cooperate.
Samaira, though equally terrified, went into full protective mode, blindly swinging her hand at whatever had dared to touch him. “CHOD USKO!” she shouted, hitting air, plastic, fabric she didn’t know, she didn’t care.
“MAMMMYYYYYYYYYYY!” Prateek screamed as something grabbed him from behind, his voice cracking like a frightened child.
At the same time
“BHOOTTT… CHUDAIL… PISACHINI NE PAKAD LIYAA… MAMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!” Priya screamed so loudly it echoed through the entire haunted house, clutching onto Prateek like her life depended on it which, according to her, it absolutely did.
On another side, Shagun and Ruhaan were walking extra carefully, almost tiptoeing, staying so close they were practically glued.
Suddenly, Shagun felt something brush against her shoulder.
“MAMMMYYY… mammyyyy… mamyyyyyy ye kya haiiiii… maMMYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!” She jolted on the spot, nearly jumping out of her skin—only to realise it was just a hanging decoration.
“Hahahaaa… tum to itne se dar gayii,” Ruhaan laughed confidently too confidently.
The next second, he felt a hand land on his shoulder. He went stiff. Completely. Statue mode activated.
“Ye bhi koi kapda hi hoga,” he mumbled, trembling, convincing himself.
But the moment he turned A huge costumed zombie face popped right in front of him.
“Hello zombie uncle…” Ruhaan said with the most awkward laugh ever, immediately grabbing Shagun’s hand.
“BHAGOOOOOOOOO!” And with that, he ran like his life depended on it, dragging Shagun along, both screaming and laughing hysterically.
Ahead of them, Aditi and Ansh were moving cautiously, creepy noises echoing from all directions.
Suddenly Someone grabbed Aditi’s hand.
“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH……MAMMMYYYYYYYYYYYYY!” She screamed at the top of her lungs and without thinking even for a second
SMACK. A solid, loud slap landed straight on the creature’s face.Ansh froze.
“What the—”
The creature froze too. Aditi didn’t wait for explanations, apologies, or guilt. She grabbed Ansh’s hand tightly.
“BHAGOOO!”
And just like that, she ran full speed, pulling a stunned Ansh behind her, leaving the poor haunted house actor questioning his life choices.
____________
As they finally stumbled out of the haunted house, bright lights hit their eyes and everyone collectively exhaled, like they’d been holding their breath for the last ten minutes.
“Broooo yaar,” Vivaan groaned dramatically, hands on his knees, still catching his breath. “kitne gande ho aaplog mujhe waha akela chod ke bhaag gaye.”
Ruhaan said, wiping his forehead, “ye sach main bohut hi haunted tha bahii.”
Riva shook her head, still shaken. “meri poori aatma bahar aa gyi thi yrr”
Samaira let out a tired laugh. “same,… pta nahi kitni galiya bakk di maine to”
Prateek folded his hands, looking up. “Thank you bhagwaan jii.”
Priya nodded vigorously. “aisa laga ki saare bhoot hamare peeche hi pade the”
Aditi, completely done with life, plopped down on the floor, hugging her knees. “I’m not going anywhere anymore,” she declared. “mujhe bhook lag rhi haii pehle kuch khate haii”
Ansh looked at her and smiled softly. “Alright, then let’s eat something first.”
Aman agreed instantly. “ha pehle kuch kha lete haii”
_________________
The next day, Aditi’s house was buzzing with comfort and chaos. The hall was full some of them sprawled lazily on the sofa, others sitting on the floor with cushions and snacks, everyone relaxed and still riding the high of yesterday’s madness.
“Kal to maza hi aa gaya tha bhai, kasam se,” Shagun said happily, leaning back.
“Haan yaar, bohot maza aaya,” Priya added, nodding.
“My throat is still sore,” Aditi said, remembering the day. “We screamed way too much.”
Aman laughed immediately. “Koi cheekha ho ya na cheekha ho… Aditi sabse zyada cheekhi thi, I must say.”
“Arre nahi bhaiya yaar,” Aditi defended herself quickly. “Itna bhi nahi cheekhi thi main.”
Vivaan didn’t miss a beat. “Haan bhaiya, ye cheekh kahan rahi thi—bas darr ke maare Ansh bhaiya se chipki ja rahi thi. ‘Ahhhh… mammyyyy’ karte karte.” He dramatically acted it out.
Ansh’s ears turned red instantly.Aditi froze for a second, then flustered and annoyed.
“Pagal hai kya?” she snapped. “Khud ko dekha tha? Khud to Riva se door hi nahi ho raha tha darr ke maare.”
Vivaan shrugged exaggeratedly. “Haan to usko bhi to darana tha na. Darr hi nahi rahi thi ye bandi.”
Samaira tilted her head and looked at Ansh. “Waise… Ansh nahi dara na?”
Before Ansh could even open his mouth, Priya jumped in casually too casually.
“Ye darte bhi nahi hain yaar didi. Big wheel wale pe bhi nahi. Even ye ek baar Kritika ke saath baithe the wo bandi itna royi thi, bhaisahab, darr ke maare poochho mat. Aur bhaiya usse chup kara rahe the poora time.”
The moment Kritika’s name was spoken, Aditi’s head snapped toward Priya. Her smile vanished. Her body stiffened.
“Hein… itna ro gayi thi?” Aman asked, curious.
Vivaan immediately acted it out, clinging tightly to Ruhaan. “Arre kya bataun yaar. Bhaiya se aise-aise chipki rahi thi poori ride, darr ke maare.”
Aditi’s jaw tightened. Her eyes slid slowly, sharply toward Ansh, shooting daggers so intense that he visibly gulped.
“Aur inhone kya kiya tha, Vivaan?” Aditi asked, teeth clenched, her voice sweet but dangerous.
Vivaan, absolutely unaware of the storm he was fueling, replied innocently, “Ye to bas usko hold karke back rub kar rahe the, ki chup ho jaaye bechari.”
“Back rub?” Aditi repeated, stressing every word. Silence fell for a second.
Ansh shifted uncomfortably. “Bas bhi karo bhai, tum log kitni purani-purani baatein karte ho.”
“Purani kahan hai?” Priya said casually. “Pichhle saal hi to gaye the aap log. Bhool gaye kya?”
“Oh.”Aditi raised her eyebrows slowly, folding her arms.
Ansh gulped again, now glaring at Priya to shut up.
Ruhaan leaned closer to Ansh and whispered with a grin, “Tu to gaya beta ab.”
Aditi didn’t say another word but the way she leaned back, eyes fixed on Ansh with clear jealousy, irritation, and way too much interest, made it obvious.
Samaira walked in just in time, holding a plate full of neatly arranged cheesecakes, clearly trying to save the room from turning into a battlefield.
“Arey chodo bhai, tum log ye khao,” she said, placing the plate on the center table.
“Haan, ye khate hain,” Ansh said a little too quickly, immediately getting up to help her very obviously escaping Aditi’s laser-sharp glare.
As everyone picked up a cheesecake, Aditi leaned forward, excitement returning to her face at least on the surface.
“Kaise bane hai?” she asked eagerly, eyes scanning everyone’s reactions.
“Thoda meetha kam hai, baaki sahi hai,” Shagun said honestly.
“Hein?!” Aditi frowned instantly and took a bite herself, analyzing it seriously.
“Hm… isme na agar choco chips added hote na, to zyada tasty lagta,” Ansh said casually, meaning it as a harmless suggestion.
Aditi slowly turned her head toward him.
“Achha,” she said sternly. “Cheesecake mein to chocolate ki layer hoti hai. Choco chips kahan hote hain?”
Ansh swallowed. “Wo… I’ve eaten one with choco chips na, isliye bata raha tha. Baaki theek hai ye bhi,” he said, suddenly very careful with his words.
Aditi smiled too sweetly.
“Kahan khaya tha aapne?” she asked softly. Before Ansh could answer
“Kritika ke ghar pe,” Ruhaan said dramatically. “Usne specially iske liye banaya tha.” Aditi’s eyebrow twitched.
“Haan haan, yaad aaya,” Vivaan added cluelessly. “Wo to banati hi rehti hai Ansh bhaiya ke liye cheesecakes. Aur ye ungliyaan chaat-chaat ke khate hain usko.”
Silence. Aditi slowly nodded, lips curving into a tight smile.
“Ohh achha… tabhi ye wala pasand nahi aaya lagta hai,” she said, glaring straight at Ansh.
“Nahi nahi, ye bhi achha hai,” Ansh rushed, panic evident. “Tasty banaya hai didi aapne.”
He immediately took another bite like his life depended on it.
“Didi ne nahi banaya,” Prateek said,with mischive, looking between them. Then he added casually, “Aditi ne banaya hai.”
Ansh froze.
“Aur tune to specially iske liye hi banaya tha na, Adu?” Prateek said, poking the fire very deliberately. Ansh choked.
Aditi slowly turned to him, a fake, perfectly polite smile plastered on her face eyes absolutely murderous.
“Koi baat nahi,” she said calmly. “Next time se I’ll take advice from Kritika. Warna ussi ke haath ka banwa lungi.”
Before anyone could react, she snatched the plate from Ansh’s hand, walked straight to the kitchen, dumped it there, and marched upstairs toward her room mumbling under her breath.
The second she disappeared The room exploded in laughter.
“Bhai sahab,” Prateek said, laughing uncontrollably. “Iska to khel khatam ab.”
“Batao,” Priya added, wiping tears. “Teesri bite ka mauka bhi nahi diya bhaiya ko.”
“L lag gaye bhaiya ke,” Shagun laughed.
“Aww,” Samaira said, shaking her head. “Bichara Ansh.”
Ansh just sat there, staring at the empty space where his cheesecake and his peace used to be.
___________________
Lunch break at school was loud as usual laughter echoing across the corridor, benches scraping against the floor, lunchboxes opening and closing, voices overlapping in comfortable chaos. Their group sat as always under the shade near the classrooms, bags scattered around, food being exchanged without permission.
Everyone was busy with their tiffins, teasing each other, stealing bites…
“yrr ye wale sanwiches tasty hai boht,” Shagun said appreciatively, taking another bite.
“haina,” Riva agreed, nodding.
“yrr ruhaan bhaiya phir se mere parathe kha gaye aap,” Vivaan complained dramatically, staring at his almost-empty box.
“tu samaosa kha le na phir mera…. le,” Ruhaan said casually, passing his samosa toward him.
Laughter followed.
Aditi ate too, joining in the food-sharing, smiling at jokes, reacting to everyone but there was one very deliberate absence. She didn’t look at Ansh. Not even once.
No teasing comment. No accidental eye contact. No soft smile that always found him without trying. Ansh noticed. Of course he did.
Since yesterday, she hadn’t spoken to him properly even once. No glances, no small fights, no quiet understanding between them just distance. And it sat heavy in his chest.
When Aditi finally closed her tiffin, wiped her hands, and stood up with her bottle, Ansh instantly got up too.
“mera hogya, main handwash kar ke aati hu,” she said curtly, already turning toward the wash area.
Before she could even reach the corridor, Ansh caught up with her.
“Aditi…wait.”
She heard someone call her. For a second, she turned… and the moment she saw it was him, her expression hardened. She turned back around and kept walking, not slowing down even a little.
“isha please listen na yrr,” he said in a pleading tone, walking beside her. “I’m sorry Isha! I swear it wasn’t intentional. I didn’t even know you made the cheesecake.”
She stopped so abruptly that he almost walked into her. She turned sharply, eyes blazing.
“Good,” she said coldly. “Because I won’t even try making it again. Not even once now.”
Ansh opened his mouth, panic flashing across his face but she didn’t let him speak.
“And you should just go eat the ones Kritika makes for you,” she added bitterly and started walking again.
That sentence hit him hard. His chest tightened as he watched her walk away, every step putting more distance between them over a mistake that was never meant to hurt her this much.
“isha listen na-” He followed her immediately.
She increased her pace, clearly annoyed. “mera peecha mat kijiye ab aap.”
“nhi….I’ll follow you,” he said stubbornly, matching her steps. “untill you talk to me again.”
She stopped again and turned to glare at him, eyes sharp with irritation and hurt. Before she could say anything, he suddenly held his ears, bending slightly with a small, guilty grin that only she ever got to see.
“sorry naa, please maaf kar do” Ansh whispered.
For a split second, she faltered.
Then she turned sharply away again. “bhaad main jaiye,” she snapped and started moving.
The corridor was now filled with students voices, footsteps, teachers passing by but Ansh stayed right behind her, whispering apologies under his breath again and again.
“sorry isha…”
“please…”
“maan jao yrr…”
She didn’t respond. Still… a tiny smile betrayed her on the corner of her lips, appearing despite herself at his ridiculous persistence. He followed her all the way, completely unapologetic about it.
Finally, thoroughly annoyed and flustered she stopped near the staircase and turned back, frustration clear on her face. “Are you serious right now? What if somebody sees us like this? kisi teacher ne dekh liya to?”
He didn’t even hesitate. “I don’t care.”
That made her pause.
He stepped closer, voice softer now, almost desperate. “i’m sorry naa Isha… please talk to me…. i love you yrrr… please maaf kar do, i’ll do anything just tell me…. i won’t even talk to kritika anymore i swear but please talk to me isha please please pleaseee.”
The words spilled out in one breath raw, honest, full of guilt and affection as he gently held her pinky finger, like he was afraid she’d disappear if he didn’t. For a moment, her anger wavered.
She looked at him his eyes wide and guilty, his face tense like a scared puppy afraid of losing the one thing that mattered. It looked like he might actually cry if she pushed him away again.
Then
“Ansh!”
They both froze. Aditi immediately pulled her hand back, heart racing.
A teacher stood at the end of the corridor, looking straight at him. “Come here. I need you right now.”
Ansh shut his eyes briefly, clearly annoyed and helpless.
“I—” he looked back at Aditi, voice urgent. “We’re not done yet…. please don’t go, i’ll be back promise.”
She folded her arms, turning her face away to hide everything she was feeling.
“Go,” she said flatly.
He hesitated for a second longer… then turned toward the teacher, walking away unwillingly, glancing back at her every few steps like he was being dragged against his will.
Aditi watched him disappear down the corridor Her heart still racing, anger slowly melting into something much more dangerous.
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That’s all for this chapter guys…hope you enjoyed it.😊
don’t forget to vote and leave your comments.💖
lots of love♥️
~Prachi💌
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