A new day starts at Airan Villa; its calm gardens are glowing softly in the morning sun. Gentle sunlight streams through the linen curtains, making pretty patterns on the shiny wooden floor. Takshvi stirs first, her senses soaking in the peaceful quiet around her. Looking around, she sees Yuvaan peacefully sleeping, his face showing the innocent calm of a child. Seeing him makes her smile slightly, a quiet, tender kind of smile.

For a moment, she just watches his calm face—the relaxed brow, the gentle rise and fall as he breathes—but she’s not just noticing how he looks. Her mind goes to the kindness he had shown her the day before, giving freely with no expectation. That memory makes her heart beat a bit faster and brings the warmth she had kept at bay for a long time.

It’s only then, with a quiet, almost surprised awareness, that she realizes her thoughts aren’t guarded anymore, not locked down by the strict rules she’d once set for herself. She’s thinking about him—really thinking—with her heart, letting feelings she’d pushed away come back. It makes her feel a bit uneasy but also a little happy, like the morning light is hiding a promise she’s just beginning to understand.

She looked at him and, in a voice barely above a whisper, said, “I don’t know what kind of relationship we might have had in the past, or maybe I just don’t remember. But after all these years, being around you gives me a strange sense of peace. My heart feels calm with you—something it hasn’t felt in a long time, after everything I’ve been through…”

She paused briefly, drawing in a deep breath before continuing, “I do not yet trust you, Yuvaan. However, the way you and Anish make me feel at ease frightens me, for I fear that I might end up trusting you despite myself. I do not yet know who you truly are, but my past experiences have irrevocably altered my life. Please grant me some time, Yuvaan. I have closed myself off from the world. And… thank you for all that you did for me yesterday.”

As the quiet tension hung in the room, she got up from her seat gracefully, looking a bit tired but determined. The soft swish of her clothes followed her as she walked toward the bathroom, moving slowly but with purpose, like she needed a private space for her thoughts. Little did she know, Yuvaan had been quietly watching and noticed everything she said.

He smiled faintly and said: “Jitna time lena h le lijiye Takshvi, bss m apko khush dekhna chahta hu. And about trust, I blindly trust you because you are the purest soul whom I met till now. M nhi janta ki apke sath kya hua but the moment I get the whole truth, m apki zindagi se sare drd hta dunga.”

(Take all the time you require, Takshvi; my sole desire is to see you genuinely happy. As for trust, I place my complete faith in you, for you are the most virtuous soul I have ever encountered. I do not yet know what you have endured, but the moment I learn the entire truth, I shall strive to remove every trace of sorrow from your life.)

Uttering these words, he once again closes his eyes and drifts into a brief slumber. Moments later, Takshvi emerges from the bathroom and proceeds to the closet to prepare herself. Once dressed, she approaches Yuvaan and murmurs softly, “Still asleep? This is absurd. I wonder how such individuals manage to run a company.”

Having uttered these words, she allows a gentle smile to grace her lips, then leans slightly forward in an effort to rouse him from slumber, calling softly yet insistently, “Yuvaan, wake up.”

Yuvaan stirs faintly, rolling toward his right side with languid movements. His eyes remain half-closed, and his voice emerges low and fraught with drowsy reluctance as he murmurs, almost in a whimper, “Please… just five more minutes.” His tone carries the plaintive note of one desperately clinging to the last vestiges of sleep, as though the comfort of his dreams outweighs any summons to the waking world.

Takshvi smiles and says while shaking his arm lightly: It’s already 8 in the morning, Yuvaan.

Upon hearing this, Yuvaan rose to his feet and cast his gaze about the room. The instant his eyes rested upon Takshvi, he found himself momentarily transfixed, struck by the vision of her clad in a wine-coloured suit, her beauty unadorned save for the most minimal application of makeup.

Seeing him, observing her Takshvi clears her throat intentionally which brings Yuvaan back from his thoughts and says: “V..vo sorry. M late hogya aaj, vese m jldi uth ta hu. Aap rukiye m bss abhi ready ho jata hu.”

(Apologies for my tardiness today; though I generally rise early, I happened to be delayed this morning. Please wait a moment while I prepare myself.)

Takshvi: “Aap apna time lijiye, Yuvaan. M breakfast ready krti hu tb tk.”

(Take your time, Yuvaan. In the meantime, I shall prepare breakfast.)

Yuvaan gently interrupts and says: “Apko y sb krne ki need nhi h. Apko bhi office jana hoga.”

(There is no need for you to do all this. You must also leave for the office.)

Takshvi tries to say something but Yuvaan says: “Koi bhs nhi Takshvi. M apko wife bnakr laya hu. Aap bss khush rhiye yaha, humare sath rhiye baki ghr ka koi kaam krne ki apko need nhi h. Apko jo mnn h vo kriye kbhi kisi chiz k liye nhi roka jaega apko but bss apni mrzi ka kriye. Kisi k liye khud ko force krne ki need nhi h.”

(No arguments, Takshvi. I brought you into my life as my wife so that you may be happy here with me, not burdened with household chores. Whatever you wish to do, you are free to pursue without restriction. Never compel yourself for the sake of another; simply follow your own heart.)

Takshvi stays quiet, just staring at Yuvaan with a look full of pure blessing. In that calm moment, her heart feels really thankful. She never thought anyone would see her as that important—not out of duty or convenience, but truly caring. There's no harshness, no hint of anger; only a warm, genuine kindness shines from him, so rare it feels almost sacred. Every little gesture, every silent act of respect, makes her feel valued in a way she never imagined, giving her a fresh belief in the goodness of people.

She nods and says: “Thank you. Aap ready ho jaeiye. M Anish ko dekhkr neeche milti hu.”

(Thank you. Please prepare yourself; I shall meet Anish downstairs after seeing him.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Thoda dhyan rkhiyega. Janwar h vo.”

(Do be cautious—he is rather beastly in nature.)

Saying this, he leaves from there while chuckling. Takshvi gets confused and says: “Y bhi ptanhi kya kya kehte h usko.”

(I truly cannot fathom the things he says about him.)

Uttering these words, she walks toward Anish’s room with slow, deliberate steps. When she reaches, she gently pushes the door open just a little, letting a narrow beam of morning light seep into the dim room. Inside, Anish is sprawled on his bed, deep in sleep. Shaking her head slightly in mild exasperation, she goes up to him and tries to wake him up, calling in a firm but affectionate voice, “Anish bhaiya, wake up.”

Half-asleep and stubborn, Anish clutches a pillow over his ears to block out both her voice and the morning light. “Please, let me sleep,” he mutters lazily. “Go away.”

Takshvi’s eyes widen, her brows rising in disbelief. “I’m not your brother,” she snaps back, her voice a mix of impatience and amusement. “It’s me—so get up now.”

Anish groans, turning his face toward the wall in a feeble attempt to evade her persistence. Undeterred, Takshvi reaches for the blanket draped over him, giving it a brisk tug. “Enough of this laziness,” she says. “The day will not wait for you, and neither shall I.”

A muffled protest escapes his lips, yet the faintest smile betrays his surrender. Slowly, he pushes himself upright, rubbing his eyes in resignation, as the morning finally claims him.

Observing Takshvi’s furious expression, he lets out a soft chuckle, amused by how endearingly she displays her anger. However, he swiftly turns the laugh into a feigned cough when she notices. Catching this at once, Takshvi remarks, “What happened? Has your laughter vanished already?”

Anish, playing along, tosses a pillow toward her, which she skillfully dodges. Reaching for another, he is interrupted mid motion as Takshvi interjects, “Yuvaan was right—you truly are a wild creature.”

Anish hears this and says: “Aaj bhai ko nhi chdunga. Khud ki izzat toh duba rkhi h, ab meri k peeche pde h. Hdd h.”

(Today, I shall not spare my brother. He has already tarnished his own reputation, and now he insists on meddling with mine. This is simply beyond the pale.)

Takshvi shot a sharp look and said: “Agr 20-minute ma neeche nhi mile na, fr m btaungi izzat aur bezzati kise kehte h.”

(If you are not downstairs within twenty minutes, I shall personally demonstrate the true meaning of dignity and disgrace.)

Anish’s eyes widen and say: “Bhabhi, please. Subah subah kyu atyachar kr rhe ho.”

(Sister-in-law, please, why subject me to such torment so early in the morning?)

Takshvi smirks and says: “Bhaiya, abhi mene kuch kiya hi kaha h. Agr ready nhi huyy na fr btaungi.”

(Brother, I have not yet even begun to act. But if you fail to get ready, you will soon understand.)

Anish groans and moves toward the bathroom while muttering: “Koi mujse pyar nhi krta, huh.”

(No one loves me… huh.)

Takshvi chuckles and says: “Jao jao.” (Go on, go on.)

Anish nods and says: “Ap jao neeche, m aa rha hu thodi der ma.”

(You go downstairs; I shall join you in a short while.)

Takshvi nods and moves toward downstairs. Reaching the hall, she moves toward the temple and does worship and prays: “Mahadev, m nhi janti ki ab meri kismat ma kya h pr m itna janti hu ki y dono bhai muje koi tkleef nhi hone denge. Muje apne liye kuch nhi chahiye bss ap inko koi tkleef mtt hone dena.”

(Mahadev, I do not know what fate holds for me now, but I am certain that these two brothers will never allow any harm to come to me. I seek nothing for myself; I only pray that they never endure any suffering.)

Saying this, she takes the blessing of the statue of Mahadev and moves toward the kitchen. Seeing her in the kitchen, Shambhu steps toward her and says: “Madam, apko yaha aane ki jarurat nhi h. Hume bta dijiye kya chahiye. Hum apko de denge.”

(Madam, there is no need for you to come here. Please tell us what you require; we shall bring it to you.)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Ap mujse bht bde h uncle. Ap muje Takshvi hi kahiye. And m bss thoda pehli rasoi k liye meetha bnaungi. Ap chinta mtt kriye, m kr lungi. Ap sb bhi aaram kriye.”

(You are much older to me, Uncle; please address me simply as Takshvi. I only wish to prepare a small sweet dish for the ritual of the first meal. Do not worry; I shall manage it myself. All of you should also take some rest.)

Shambhu nods and moves toward the gate but stops in the middle and looks back. His gaze falls on Takshvi’s politeness which really drops an impression on him. He muttered: “Hey Bhagwan, ap iss ldki ko iss ghr se duur mtt hone dena. M nhi janta y kesi h but mene iss bcchi k aane k baad Yuvaan aur Anish ma khushi dekhi h. M janta hu ki iss bcchi ki bhi apni kahaniya hongi pr iss makan ko ghr bnane ma madad kriyega bhagwan.“

(O Lord, I beseech You not to let this young girl be taken far from this home. I do not know her well, yet since her arrival, I have witnessed joy return to Yuvaan and Anish. I am certain that she, too, carries her own stories; nevertheless, I pray that You will guide her in helping transform this house into a true home.)

Having spoken these words, he departs from the kitchen. Meanwhile, Takshvi busies herself with the preparation of rasmalai, for it happens to be the most beloved sweet delicacy in her family. With this thought in mind, she resolves to prepare it not only for her relatives but also for Yuvaan and Anish, hoping they too will relish its taste. Once the dessert has been meticulously prepared, she carries the dish to the dining table and sets it down with care. Raising her voice so it carries through the house, she calls warmly, “Yuvaan, Anish bhaiya, come na.”

Hearing her voice, Yuvaan and Anish come toward the dining table. Anish looks at dishes and says: “Aree vaah, aaj toh bht kuch bna h.”

(Oh, my, you have prepared quite a spread today.)

Takshvi nods and says hesitantly: “Mene rasmalai bnai h. Ap log khaoge kya?”

(I have made rasmalai. Would you care to try it?)

Yuvaan and Anish exchange looks and says: “Kyu nhi khaeinge? Jarur khaeinge.”

(Why wouldn’t we? Of course, we shall.)

Takshvi’s face lit up and said: “Ap baitho m deti hu.”

(Please be seated; I will serve you.)

Yuvaan gently holds her hand and says: “Ap baitho. Hum le lenge. And mene apko mana kiya tha na y sb krne k liye?”

(Do sit down. We shall help ourselves. And did I not ask you to refrain from undertaking such tasks?)

Takshvi looks down while biting her lower lip she says: “Mera mnn tha, schi…”

(I simply felt like it, truly…)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Jyada kaam mtt kriyega.”

(Do not overexert yourself.)

Takshvi nods while Anish dramatically says: “Bss kro yrr. Kitna bolte ho dono. Khao chlo.”

(Enough now, you two. How much more will you talk? Let us eat.)

Takshvi looks toward Yuvaan who is already glaring Anish and says while smacking his back: “Thoda chup rehna seekh le. Vrna mene sikhaya toh tuje accha nhi lgega.”

(Learn to hold your tongue, or if I teach you myself, you may not find it pleasant.)

Takshvi chuckles on Anish’s pout which makes Yuvaan smile. Soon, the trio settled on their respective seats and began eating. The moment Yuvaan tastes rasmalai, he closes his eyes to feel each and every flavour of it. While, Anish is also eating very slowly so that he can take a taste of every bite. Takshvi observes it and smiles while thinking: “Inn dono ko y psnd aya h. Mtlb acha h. Thank you Mahadev muje inn dono ko dene k liye.”

(Both of them have found it to their liking, which signifies that it is indeed commendable. I am grateful to Mahadev for bestowing these two upon me.)

Her thoughts are broken by Yuvaan’s voice: “Takshvi khana khaiye.”

(Takshvi, please have something to eat.)

Takshvi nods and takes a sandwich. Anish who is observing her, says: “Bhabhi, dudh ya fr juice bhi lo.”

(Bhabhi, you should also take some milk or perhaps a glass of juice.)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Nhi bhaiya. M bss subah itna hi kha pati hu.”

(No, Bhaiya. In the mornings, I can only manage this much.)

Yuvaan shot Takshvi an unimpressed look and said: “Ap ab tk kese khati aai h, y m nhi janta. But ab ap acche se khana khaeingi.”

(I do not know how you have managed to eat so little all this time, but from now on, you will eat properly.)

Saying this, he passes a glass of milk toward her while Takshvi gently rejects it and says: “Nhi Yuvaan. M nhi pee paungi.”

(No, Yuvaan. I will not be able to drink it.)

Anish stands up and moves toward her. Takshvi observes him and says: “Kya hua?”

(What happened?)

Anish shakes his head and asks: “Juice or milk? Choose one.”

Takshvi tries to stand up but Anish says: “Nhi Bhabhi. Ankit jiju na btaya tha ki ap nhi khate peete. But muje acche se aata h ziddi logo ka dhyan rkhna. After all, I am a doctor.”

(No, Bhabhi. Ankit Jiju mentioned that you hardly eat or drink at all. But I know quite well how to take care of stubborn individuals—after all, I am a doctor.)

Takshvi looks down and says: “Bhaiya, rehne do.”

(Bhaiya, let it be.)

Anish shakes his head and says: “Answer me fast Bhabhi. Juice or milk?”

Takshvi shakes her head on which Anish sighs and says: “Fine, ab ap muje beshak maar lena but this is necessary.”

(Very well. You may scold me later if you wish, but this is necessary.)

Saying this, he picks a glass of juice and passes to Yuvaan who nods in understanding. Takshvi gets a hint and says: “Nhi, nhi. M pee rhi hu.”

(No, no—I will drink it myself.)

Anish smirks and says: “Kyu Bhabhi? Ab hum pila dete h na. M pkd leta hu apko, bhai peela denge.”

(Why, Bhabhi? We can serve it to you. I will hold you, and Bhai will make you drink it.)

Takshvi shoots him a deadly glare and says: “Yuvaan, ap inko samjha lo vrna y bht pitenge mujse.”

(Yuvaan, you had better explain things to him, or else he will receive a severe scolding from me.)

Yuvaan chuckles and says: “M samjha dunga. Lo juice pio. And y roz nhi hoga ki hum zabardasti krenge. Apko dhyan rkhna hoga Takshvi apna. Bina khayy piye kese kaam chlega.”

(I will explain. Here, drink this juice. And this will not become a daily occurrence where we force you. You must take care of yourself, Takshvi. How will you manage your work without proper food and drink?)

Takshvi nods and says: “I will take care of it.”

Anish and Yuvaan nod in satisfaction and soon, all completed their breakfast. Takshvi stands up and says: “Okay, m apko sham ko milti hu.”

(Very well, I shall meet you this evening.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Ap khud chle jaoge? Vrna agr apko issue na ho toh m drop kr dunga.”

(Will you be going on your own? If it is not inconvenient, I can drop you off.)

Takshvi was about to say something but Anish interrupts and says: “Bhai, Bhabhi ka office yhi pass ma h. M drop kr dunga unko. Ap jao.”

(Brother, her office is quite nearby. I will take her there. You may go ahead.)

Yuvaan shoots sharp glare at him and says: “Biwi meri h. M chd dunga.”

(She is my wife. I will take her.)

Takshvi’s eyes widen slightly over hearing this as Yuvaan never expressed his possessiveness openly while Anish smirks and says: “Bhabhi, aap mere sath chloge na?”

(Sister-in-law, you will accompany me, won’t you?)

Takshvi looks toward Yuvaan and says: “Apko koi dikkat h toh m apke sath chl deti hu.”
(If it bothers you, I can go with you instead.)

Yuvaan closes his eyes for a brief moment and says: “Fine, aap aaj iske sath jao but kl mere sath chloge.”
(Very well, you may go with him today, but tomorrow you will come with me.)

Takshvi nods while Anish smirks on which Yuvaan says while taking his bike keys: “And Mr. Airan, apki bike ab mere pass rhegi 2 weeks k liye. Car se travel kro.”
(And Mr. Airan, your bike will remain with me for the next two weeks. You can travel by car.)

Anish’s smirk vanishes instantly and says while pleading: “Bhai, nhi please. Apko toh pta h muje bikes kitni psnd h.”
(Brother, please, no. You know how much I love my bike.)

Yuvaan shakes his head and says: “Aur kr mujse mjk. Chl ab ja.”
(That will teach you not to mock me. Now go.)

Anish pouts while Takshvi says while whispering: “Ap chlo. M lekr aati hu apki keys.”
(You go ahead. I shall bring your keys.)

Anish’s face lit up and said: “Thank you. Jldi aana.”
(Thank you—do come quickly.)

Takshvi nods while Yuvaan gives suspicious looks to her and asks: “Y itna chahekta hua kyu gya?”
(Why did he leave in such haste?)

Takshvi chuckles softly and says: “Uski bike keys dena.”
(Please hand me his bike keys.)

Yuvaan raises his eyebrows and asks: “And vo kyu?”
(And why is that?)

Takshvi: “De do na. Baccha h vo abhi.”
(Just give them to me. He is still a kid.)

Yuvaan says while sighing: “Ptanhi konse angle se bccha h y. And ap uski side le rhe ho?”
(I fail to see from any angle how he could be considered a kid. And now you are taking his side?)

Takshvi nods and says: “Hnn, ab do.”
(Yes, now please give them.)

Yuvaan pouts and says while passing keys: “Thk h. Y lo. But kbhi meri bhi le liya kro side. Kl se ap uski hi le rhe ho.”
(Fine, here you go. But you should occasionally take my side as well. Since yesterday, you have been siding only with him.)

Takshvi chuckles and says: “Okay done. Next time apki lungi.”
(Very well, agreed. Next time, I shall support you.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Chliye late ho rha h.”
(Let us go; we are getting late.)

Takshvi nods and leaves with him while Anish is waiting for Takshvi in the car. The moment she arrives, he gets out of the car and says: “Bhabhi, chliye.”
(Bhabhi, shall we?)

Takshvi nods and goes toward the passenger seat after giving bike keys to Anish while Yuvaan follows her and before she can open the gate, he opens it and says: “Baithye and vaha pahunchkr text kr dijiyega.”
(Please be seated, and once you arrive, send me a message.)

Takshvi looks at Yuvaan with a mix of surprise and quiet admiration, fully aware of his high position as the CEO—a guy used to boardrooms, high-pressure deals, and earning respect. And yet, here he is, personally opening the car door for her, moving with a kind of gentle grace that’s so different from the corporate image she had imagined. This simple, polite gesture throws off her expectations and leaves her a bit speechless. A warm little feeling of appreciation stirs in her, along with a curiosity about the man behind the title, whose polite manners hint at a depth she didn’t expect.

Getting no response, Yuvaan calls her again: “Takshvi!!”

Takshvi blinks her eyes and says: “Ji, thank you. I will inform you.”

Yuvaan nods and soon, all three leaves for their work. Yuvaan drives toward his office while thinking about his following day. On the other hand, Anish is observing Takshvi that she is not talking and thinking about something continuously on which he sighs and says: “Bhabhi….”

Takshvi hummed softly on which Anish says: “Kya soch rhe ho?”
(What are you thinking?)

Takshvi: “Kuch nhi, bhaiya.”
(Nothing, bhaiya.)

Anish chooses not to pressurize her and says: “Vese apke pass bhai ka number h?”
(By the way, do you have bhai’s contact number?)

Takshvi’s eyes widen in shock and say: “Aree y toh mene socha hi nhi ki unka number hi nhi h. M unko text kaha se krungi.”
(I had not even realized that I do not have his number. How am I supposed to text him?)

Hearing this, Anish laughs and says: “Toh mujse le lo.”
(Then take it from me.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Hnn. Aap forward kr dena.”
(Alright, please forward it to me.)

Anish nods and says: “But ek condition h.”
(On one condition.)

Takshvi gives confusing looks and says: “Kya condition?”
(What condition?)

Anish slows the car speed and pulls out the packet from his pocket. He gives it to Takshvi and says: “Bhabhi, aaj se aap y daily loge for 3 months.”
(Sister-in-law, from today onward you must take this daily for the next three months.)

Takshvi gets confused and opens the packet which makes her eyes widen in shock. She looks toward Anish who is driving normally without any specific reaction for her.

Takshvi: “Bhaiya, y kyu?”
(Brother, why this?)

Anish hummed and said: “Hnn y. Jiju na btaya tha muje ki apko PCOD h and aap medicines nhi lete ho. Y ab aap 3 months lena, ap thk ho jaoge uske baad dekhte h aaghe ka procedure.”
(Jiju told me that you have PCOD and that you neglect taking your prescribed medicines. You must take this for three months; once you recover, we will decide on the next course of action.)

Takshvi looks down and says while passing medicines to him: “M nhi lungi bhaiya.”
(I will not take them, brother.)

Anish stops the car near her office and says: “Bhabhi, m janta hu aap kyu nhi lena chahte y but y apki body k liye necessary h.”
(Sister-in-law, I understand why you are reluctant, but these are essential for your health.)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Nhi bhaiya. Y medicines weight gain krva deti h.”
(No, brother. These medicines cause weight gain.)

Anish: “Toh kya hua Bhabhi?”
(And what of it, Sister-in-law?)

Takshvi turns her face and says: “M nhi chahti vo.”
(I do not wish to take it.)

Anish smiles softly and says: “Bhabhi, m apke sath daily walk pr chlunga ya fr gym krenge ghr pr but please le lo. Bhai na muje bola ki m samjhau vrna bhai ko abhi aap jante nhi vo apko mjboor kr dete but health se compromise nhi hone dete.”
(Sister-in-law, I shall accompany you on a daily walk, or we may exercise together at home, but please do accept it. My brother instructed me to persuade you, for you have yet to fully understand him—he would not hesitate to insist, though he would never allow any compromise with your health.)

Takshvi looks toward Anish with warm eyes and says: “Ap pkka mere sath gym chloge?”
(Will you truly join me for gym sessions?)

Anish nods and says: “Hnn Bhabhi. I promise and bhai bhi chlenge.”
(Yes, Sister-in-law. I give you my word, and my brother will join us as well.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Okay, m le lungi.”
(Very well, I shall take it.)

Anish nods and says: “Thank you Bhabhi. And about bhai’s contact number, apna number do pehle fr hi m bhej paunga.”
(Thank you, Sister-in-law. And regarding my brother’s contact number—kindly share yours first, only then will I be able to send it.)

Takshvi gives a slight nod before handing him her number, and soon after, she reaches out by sending Yuvaan a message. Anish also heads to the hospital, giving her a polite little nod in passing. Takshvi walks into the office with calm, measured steps, her expression unreadable, and makes her way to her private cabin.

She had shown some emotion around Anish and Yuvaan because she realized their concern for her was genuine. But outside of those rare moments of real connection, her life felt empty—like she was just a shell going through the motions. The spark she showed with them was a sharp contrast to the usual numbness that filled her days, leaving her feeling like a soul drifting alone in her own quiet isolation.

On the other hand, in Yuvaan’s office:

Yuvaan was meticulously reviewing and signing a series of documents when the quiet rhythm of his work was interrupted by a notification that illuminated the screen of his mobile phone. Curious, he unlocked the device, and as his eyes scanned the message, a gentle, almost involuntary smile curved upon his lips.

The words read: “Hello Yuvaan. I have reached the office. Thank you sincerely for showing such thoughtful concern regarding my health, but I would kindly request that you refrain from worrying excessively about the matter. I am perfectly fine. And for today, my heartfelt thanks.”

The simplicity of the message carried a warmth that lingered with him, not merely because of its content, but because of the quiet grace and reassurance woven into each line. It was both a gesture of gratitude and a subtle attempt to lift the weight of his concern, leaving him with a sense of calm that momentarily eclipsed the formal atmosphere of his workspace.

Yuvaan replies: “No worries at all. We will talk about this later.”

Keeping his phone aside, he says: “Abhi mene kuch nhi kiya h apke liye Takshvi. Bss koshish kr rha hu ki apko pehle health se thk kr du fr apke dil ko vapis jodunga jo mere aane se pehle logo na tod diya h. Anish bhi apse connected h and m iss chiz se khush hu ki ap mere and Anish k sath thoda comfortable ho gyi h.”
(So far, I haven't really done much for you, Takshvi. My main goal is to help you get better, and only after that will I try to heal your heart, which others had hurt before I came along. It feels nice knowing that Anish is also close to you, and I'm glad to see that you feel a bit more comfortable around both of us.)

After saying that, he grabs his pen and gets back to carefully going through the rest of the documents. The office is quiet, the hum softened by the end of the workday, as he notes things on each page. Outside, the fading light comes through the blinds and throws long shadows on the desk. His coworkers start packing up, but he stays focused, wanting to finish his last checks before closing the ledger and calling it a day.

He gets up, grabs his laptop bag, and heads to his car. He's moving a little faster than usual, like he's eager to see Takshvi again soon. He keeps smiling, which is rare around the office. He gets in his car and drives off toward Airan Villa.

Meanwhile, in Takshvi’s office:

Takshvi is wrapping her belongings from the table when her cabin door is knocked. She stops for a moment and says: “Come in.”

A man of her age comes inside and she gets surprised and says: “You here?”

The man nods and says: “Can we talk, Mrs. Airan?”

Takshvi becomes more shocked by hearing this but nods. Takshvi moves toward him and says: “Bahar baat krte h.”
(Let’s talk outside.)

The man nods and leaves with her toward the garden. But the moment she steps out of the main gate, Yuvaan appears. Takshvi looks toward Yuvaan and says: “Ap yaha?”
(You here?)

Yuvaan nods and says while looking at the man: “Mene socha Anish apko drop krk gya toh m pick krne aa jata hu. But maybe aap busy h.”
(I thought that since Anish had dropped you off, I could come to pick you up. However, perhaps you were occupied.)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Nhi, mera office work khtm hogya h. And about him, He is Ravinder Singh. I will tell you about him later.”
(No, I have finished my office work. As for him, his name is Ravinder Singh. I shall tell you more about him later.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Hello, Mr. Singh.”

Ravinder nods and says: “Hello jiju. Ap muje Ravinder keh skte ho.”
(Hello jiju. You can call me Ravinder.)

Yuvaan gets confused and says: “Jiju?”

Ravinder nods and says: “We both met online while studying and I deeply consider her as my sister but seems like something is off with her.”

Takshvi turns her face and says: “Ghr chlkr baat kr skte h.”
(We can talk at home.)

Ravinder looks toward Yuvaan and says: “Ap isko le jao.”
(You take her.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Aap bhi aao. Ghr pr baat kr lena.”
(You also come. You both can talk at home.)

Ravinder hesitates but Yuvaan says: “Don’t think so much. Just come.”

Ravinder nods and says: “Aap chlo. M bike se aata hu.”
(You go. I will come on my bike.)

Yuvaan inclined his head in a brief nod, signaling agreement, and the two proceeded toward Airan Villa. Takshvi took her place beside Yuvaan in the car, while Ravinder retrieved his motorcycle from the parking area. As the vehicle began its journey, Yuvaan’s gaze lingered on Takshvi, noting the distant expression in her eyes and the subtle tension in her demeanour—clear signs that her mind was absorbed in profound contemplation. Wishing to gently draw her out of her reverie, he spoke in a soft yet engaging tone, “How has your day been?”

Takshvi looks toward him and says: “Fine, aap btao?”
(Fine, what about you?)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Mine was also fine.”

Takshvi nods and says: “Lunch kr liya tha apne?”
(Had you done lunch?)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Hnji, apne?”
(Yes, you?)

Takshvi stays silent on which Yuvaan looks toward her and says: “Apne nhi kiya?”
(You hadn’t?)

Takshvi hesitantly says: “Kaam krte krte pta nhi chla.”
(Absorbed in work, scarcely realized the passage of time.)

Yuvaan sighs in frustration and says: “Apko seriously lunch k liye nhi mila? Jhuth bol rhi h aap?”
(Are you telling me in all seriousness that you did not manage to have lunch? You cannot possibly be speaking the truth.)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Nhi, I just usually forget to do.”

Yuvaan: “M nhi janta Takshvi ki aap aisa kyu krti h khud k sath but y acchi baat nhi h. Apne subah bhi itna kum khaya tha and ab frse lunch skip kr diya. Fr aap coffee piti h vo kitni harmful ho jaegi apke liye. Agr y baat Anish ko pta chli na vo apko dant dega and m kuch bhi nhi keh paunga because vo bht strict h aise matters ma.”
(I fail to understand, Takshvi, why you treat yourself in this manner. It is not a healthy habit. You ate so little this morning, and now you have skipped lunch once again. Afterwards, you consume coffee, which can be quite detrimental to your health under such circumstances. If Anish were to learn of this, he would certainly reprimand you, and I would be unable to intervene, as he is exceptionally strict in such matters.)

Takshvi’s eyes widen in pure fear and say: “Nhi nhi, please unko mtt kehna. M pkka yaad rkhungi daily lunch krna.”
(No, please do not tell him. I promise I will remember to have lunch every day.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Sirf aaj maaf kr rha hu but next time aisa na ho.”
(I shall pardon you this time alone, but ensure that it does not happen again.)

Takshvi nods and says: “I promise.”

Yuvaan nods and says: “By the way, you never mentioned how you know Ravinder.”

Takshvi nods, closing her eyes for a brief moment before replying, “He and I pursued the CMA course together. We first connected through Telegram. We used to converse quite pleasantly, but eventually, due to certain personal reasons, I distanced myself from him. None of it was his fault—it was simply… well…”

Sensing her hesitation, Yuvaan interjects gently, “It’s all right. He is coming here shortly, is he not? You can speak with him then.”

Takshvi opens her eyes, gazes at him, and asks softly, “You have no objection?”

Yuvaan looks at her with mild perplexity before responding, “Why would I have any issue? He himself said he regards you as a sister, and even if you two were simply friends, it would not trouble me in the least.”

Takshvi nods and murmurs, “Thank you.”

Yuvaan smiles faintly and says, “You don’t need to thank me, Takshvi. This is your life, and like I’ve said before—and I’ll say again—I’ll never put restrictions on you. I just want you to be happy; nothing else matters to me as much. Your happiness is a bigger treasure to me than anything else, and your peace of mind is more important than any worry. If you ever feel weighed down or troubled, I hope you remember I’m by your side—not to control your choices, but to support them, as long as they make you happy. That’s enough for me.”

Takshvi looks at Yuvaan with pure love and admiration, so strong that it’s hard to believe they’ve only been married for a day. In such a short time, Yuvaan has given her a sense of peace and emotional comfort that she’d longed for years. Her own family never really tried to understand her or even notice the struggles she quietly faced. Their indifference slowly made her close off, building walls to keep people at a distance. But Yuvaan—and in his own way, Anish—are different. They don’t push or intrude; they respect her space and boundaries. Their quiet, steady support gives her a safe place to just be herself without any pressure or judgment. For Takshvi, this generosity isn't just a small act of kindness; it's a rare gift she's always wanted but never gotten—a gift that's now starting to bring back bits of trust and warmth she thought were lost forever.

Soon, the car stops and Takshvi’s thoughts come to an end with a soft break. She steps down from the car and says: “Yuvaan, aap andr chliye. M usse baat krk andr aa jaungi.”
(Yuvaan, please proceed inside. I shall join you shortly after speaking with him.)

Yuvaan: “Aree aap unko andr le aao. Vaha pr baat kr lena.”
(Kindly escort him indoors; you may converse there instead.)

Takshvi hesitated: “But…”

Yuvaan gently interrupts and says: “Takshvi, muje aap pr bharosa h. Aap unhe andr lekr aaiye.”
(Takshvi, I have complete faith in you. Please bring him inside.)

Takshvi can only respond with a quiet nod, because no words come out of her mouth when she hears that Yuvaan trusts her. Maybe the ghosts of her past have made her hesitant to trust others, creating a guarded heart that rarely lets anyone get close. Yet here she is, facing trust given freely—without proof, without any evidence—based only on Yuvaan’s unexplainable belief in her. It’s a simple feeling, but disarmingly sincere.

Her mind lingers on the moment, thoughts swinging between disbelief and a reluctant warmth, until Ravinder’s voice suddenly cuts through: “So, gonna talk here?” The words hit with casual finality, snapping her back from her fragile daydream to the present.

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “Nhi, aao andr chlo.”
(No, come inside.)

Ravinder nods and moves with her in the villa. Takshvi enters and says: “You have a seat here. I am coming after changing.”

Ravinder nods and sits on the couch where Anish and Yuvaan are already sitting. Anish gives Ravinder a confusing look which makes him chuckle and says: “I am like her brother.”

Anish nods and says: “I am her brother-in-law.”

Ravinder nods and says: “I am Ravinder Singh. I am a cost accountant.”

Anish nods and says: “I am Anish Airan. I am a doctor.”

Ravinder gets surprised and says: “Fr bhi Takshvi itni chill h apke aas pass?”
(Still, Takshvi is this much comfortable around you?)

Anish chuckles and says: “Hnji, I am also surprised but also trying to make her comfortable.”

Ravinder nods and says: “She really needs this environment.”

His voice is genuine which makes Yuvaan and Anish’s concentration there. Seeing their confusing look, he says: “Vo bss dikha rhi h ki vo apke sath khush h and maybe vo hogi but jitna mene uske sath time spend kiya h mene dekha h vo bss dikhati h but andr hi andr overthinking krti h.”
(She merely appears to be content with you, and perhaps she truly is. Yet, from the time I have spent with her, I have noticed that she only pretends to be happy, while inwardly she tends to overthink everything.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Hmm, mene y chiz observe ki h. Vo kuch bhi krne se pehle sochti h ki kya reaction hoga samne vale ka fr krti h as if she is afraid of another person’s reaction.”
(I have observed the same. Before taking any action, she carefully considers how the other person might respond; it is almost as though she fears their reaction.)

Ravinder nods and says: “M apko sb bta du but y uska right h apke sath sb share krne ka. Uski life h, m koi nhi hota sb btane vala.”
(I could tell you everything, but it is her right to share those matters with you herself. It is her life, and I am not the one who should reveal her personal truths.)

Anish and Yuvaan nod in understanding and say: “Don’t worry. We are patient with her.”

Ravinder nods while Takshvi also returns after changing clothes. Seeing her, they become silent while Takshvi moves toward Yuvaan and Anish and says: “Ap dono bhi change kr lijiye.”
(Please, you both should get changed.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Ap baat kijiye. Hum dono upper h. Change krk dinner pr aa jaeingi.”
(You carry on with the conversation. We are upstairs; we will change and then join you for dinner.)

Takshvi nods while Yuvaan leaves with Anish. Seeing them going, Takshvi sits on a separate couch and says: “Hmm, now tell me. Aaj kese yaha aana hua and usse bhi important tuje kese pta meri shadi ho gyi h?”
(Hmm, now tell me—what brought you here today, and more importantly, how did you learn that I am married?)

Ravinder shoots Takshvi a deadly glare which she ignores royally and says: “Jldi bol.”
(Speak quickly.)

Ravinder sighs in frustration and says: “Khushal se baat hui thi meri usne btaya and about yaha aana…. beta bht pehle aana chahta tha bss office se off nhi mila muje. Vrna jo tune kiya tha uske baad tu bchti?”
(I spoke to Khushal; he told me. As for coming here… I had wished to visit long ago, but my work commitments prevented me from taking leave. Otherwise, after what you did, do you think you would have escaped facing me?)

Takshvi shakes her head and says: “M bss alg rehkr dekhna chahti thi.”
(I merely wanted to observe things from a distance.)

Ravinder: “Toh mene kya kiya tha?”
(And what exactly did I do?)

Takshvi: “Tune nhi kiya tha but jinhone kiya tha unka bhi toh bhulaya nhi ja rha na.”
(You did nothing—but what was done by others… it is not something I can forget.)

Ravinder stands up and sits beside her and says: “Takshvi, shadi ho gyi h teri. Ab toh koshish kr uss sbse bahar aane ki. Janta hu jo hua bht jyada tha, tu nhi bhul pa rhi but inn logo ko chance de. Ache log h y.”
(Takshvi, you are now married. Try to free yourself from the shadow of the past. I know what happened was far too much, and forgetting is difficult, but give these people a chance. They are good at heart.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Janti hu veere, aur m koshish kr rhi hu ki inn logo ko preshani na ho meri vgh se. Y bhi janti hu ki y harm nhi krenge but trust? Vo nhi ho pa rha h ab.”
(I know, Veere, and I am making an effort not to cause them any trouble because of me. I also know they will not harm me—but trust? That is something I can no longer summon.)

Ravinder nods and says: “Janta hu y baat m. Pr tu himmat mtt haar. M hu tere sath hrr point pr.”
(I am aware of that. But do not lose courage; I am with you at every step.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Sorry tuje aise hi bich ma bina kuch kahe hi chd diya tha. Pr m mjboor thi.”
(I am sorry for leaving you midway without saying a word. I had no choice.)

Ravinder nods and says: “Chla muje pta. Jb tere parents itne preshan kr rhe th toh ek baar muje hi keh deti ki ghr ma dikkat ho rhi h meri vgh se m khud alg ho jata kuch time.”
(I came to know that too. But when your parents were troubling you so much, you could have at least told me that you were facing difficulties at home because of me. I would have distanced myself for a while.)

Takshvi: “M hurt nhi krna chahti thi.”
(I did not wish to hurt you.)

Ravinder nods and says: “Ab vo sb mtt soch. Jo hone tha ho chuka h bs tu apne present and future pr concentrate kr.”
(Do not dwell on it any longer. What was meant to happen has already occurred. Focus solely on your present and your future.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Hnn. Dinner krk jayyo.”
(Yes. Stay for dinner before you leave.)

Ravinder shakes his head and says: “Fr kbhi. Aaj kisi aur k ghr bhi jana h.”
(Another time, perhaps. I must visit someone else’s home this evening.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Proceed with care, and next time I shall not let you leave without eating.”

Ravinder chuckled softly and replied, “Certainly, behna. Now, shall I take my leave? I am getting late.”

Takshvi smiled and responded, “Indeed. Send me a message upon arrival.”

Ravinder nodded and departed.

Left alone, Takshvi muttered to herself, “What should I do? I know you’re still hurt, but I can’t take back what I’ve already done. Still, I’ll make sure no one suffers because of me from now on. If I can control my own feelings, I can handle everything else. I also know that when your anger finally fades, you might strike me, and that’s your right—I’m not afraid of it.”

After saying this, she stood up and started heading toward the kitchen. But halfway there, a sudden wave of dizziness hit her, making her vision blur. She instinctively reached out to steady herself, but there was nothing to grab. In the next moment, she lost her balance and fell to the floor. The fall was harsh; her head hit the sharp edge of the table hard. Blood started flowing from the wound, and within moments, her eyes closed as she lost consciousness.

Meanwhile, in Anish’s room, Yuvaan and Anish are deep in conversation, speaking in hushed tones. The door suddenly swings open, and Shambhu comes in, chest heaving, breathing hard from running. Worry spreads across Anish’s face as he steps forward and says, trying to keep calm but sounding urgent, “Uncle, please calm down. What happened?”

Shambhu shuttered: “V..vo beta, Takshvi beta behosh ho gyi.”
(V…vo beta, Takshvi has lost consciousness.)

Yuvaan’s eyes widened in alarm, and he hastened down the stairs, while Anish interjected, “Uncle, please remain calm. I shall attend to her; she will be fine.”

Shambhu shook his head gravely and said, “Son, blood is flowing from her head. She struck herself against the iron table. Please, take a look at her immediately.”

Anish’s eyes widened in stunned disbelief at the mention of blood, and without a moment’s hesitation, he dashed down the staircase, his pulse quickening with dread. As he reached the final step, his gaze fell upon Takshvi, limp and motionless in Yuvaan’s arms, and an agonizing tightness gripped his chest, as though the breath had been stolen from him. Yuvaan, his voice trembling yet persistent, was desperately attempting to stir her from unconsciousness.

“Takshvi, wake up… please, wake up…open your eyes, Takshvi,” he implored, his words faltering under the weight of urgency. His hands gently shook her shoulders, each movement betraying his fear that she might slip further away. The air between them hung heavy with panic, the silence broken only by Yuvaan’s pleading calls and the faint, uneven rhythm of Takshvi’s breathing. Anish, frozen in place for a heartbeat, felt his own helplessness gnaw at him before instinct urged him forward, his mind racing with questions and dread.

Getting no result, he picks her up and makes his way toward his bedroom and makes her lay down over bed while Anish brings his medical bag and says: Bhai, Bhabhi k face pr thoda water sprinkle kro.

Yuvaan nods and sprinkles some water droplets over her face which affects her and she slowly opens her eyes and tries to sit but quickly places her palm over head: “Ahhh…”

Yuvaan shushed her and said: “Bss Takshvi. Shant ho jaiye. Leti rhiye.”
(Enough, Takshvi. Please remain calm and lie down.)

Takshvi nods and lays down while Anish sits beside her and opens a medical bag which makes Takshvi gulp in mock fear. Seeing her reaction, Yuvaan sits on the other side and says: “Kuch nhi hoga. M yhi hu.”
(Nothing will happen; I am right here.)

Anish gives a pointed look to her and says: “Bhabhi agr dant nhi khani h na mujse toh sch sch btao ki chkkr kese aayy?”
(Bhabhi, if you wish to avoid my reprimand, then tell me truthfully how these dizziness spells began.)

Takshvi looks toward Yuvaan who nods and says: “Chote, she skipped lunch today.”

Takshvi gasps in displeasure and says: “Apko sch nhi bolna tha.”
(You ought not to have spoken the truth.)

She hesitantly looks toward Anish who is glaring at her with deadly looks and says: “Ab na muje mera kaam krne do, vese hi bht acha kaam kr liya h apne.”
(Now, allow me to attend to my work. You have already done more than enough.)

Takshvi gives the best pleading eyes to him but he stays firm and says: “Bhai, m dressing krta hu aap thoda dhyan rkhna y hile nhi.”
(Brother, I will tend to the dressing; please make sure she does not move.)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Takshvi, idhr dekho. Udhr nhi.”
(Takshvi, look at me—do not turn away.)

In his words, Takshvi nodded and shut her eyes, intentionally blocking the sight of the dressing. Anish, noting her reaction, promptly began cleansing the wound with antiseptic, eliciting a sharp intake of breath from her. Yuvaan soothed her with gentle reassurances while Anish completed the task and concluded, “It is done—only the tetanus injection remains.”

Anish quickly prepares a tetanus shot and says: “Bhai….”

Yuvaan nods and says: Takshvi, look here.

Takshvi looked over at Yuvaan as Anish carefully cleaned her arm, moving with slow, precise motions before giving the shot. The sharp sting made her squeeze her eyes shut, her face twisting with discomfort for a moment. Seeing her reaction, Yuvaan reached for her hand, gently rubbing her knuckles to reassure her, whispering, “Relax, Takshvi.” She nodded slightly and took a deep breath, staying surprisingly composed. But this unusual calm felt heavy, something both Yuvaan and Anish noticed. They shared a glance filled with a hint of sadness, remembering how she used to react with real fear just at the thought of a shot. Now, though, she hid all her pain, like she didn’t want anyone to share that burden with her.

After a moment, Anish pulled out the needle carefully and set it aside. The room went quiet, the only sound being the soft rustle of disposable gloves. Yuvaan looked at her face, trying to catch any sign of weakness, but all he saw was a calm that kept her emotions shut off from the world. Anish stayed quiet too, lost in thought, feeling that her silence said more than words ever could—a silence telling a story of endurance, loneliness, and maybe a kind of quiet acceptance that neither of them could quite figure out.

After a few minutes, he says: “Done, ab aap ruko. M dinner yhi lekr aata hu.”
(It is done; now, please wait here. I shall bring the dinner.)

Takshvi stays quiet, not saying anything, while Yuvaan just nods in response. Sensing their need for some space, Anish quietly steps away, leaving them alone. Yuvaan looks at Takshvi, noticing how still she is—her usual brightness from that morning is now dulled by obvious discomfort. A quiet sadness hits him as he remembers how she used to laugh and talk so freely, her voice full of warmth and ease. Now, her silence feels heavy and fragile, like pain has woven itself into every breath. He wishes he could comfort her or at least say something to make her feel better, but he holds back, worried even a gentle comment might break the calm between them. In that shared silence, Yuvaan’s concern grows, thinking not just about her pain but also about the gap it’s created between them.

Yuvaan takes a deep breath and says: “Takshvi, uthiye. Dinner aa rha h fr aap so jana.”
(Takshvi, please rise. Dinner is being served, after which you may retire for the night.)

Takshvi nods but doesn’t utter a single word on which Yuvaan says: “Kya hua h Takshvi? Pain ho rha h?”
(What is the matter, Takshvi? Are you experiencing any discomfort?)

Takshvi lifts her gaze to meet his eyes, their depths brimming with tender care and unspoken affection, each glance a silent promise that stirs the very core of her being. The warmth they radiate seeps into her soul, dissolving every trace of doubt, until her heart, overwhelmed by the gentleness before her, feels as though it might melt entirely. A faint, wistful smile touches her lips as she exhales softly, her voice a delicate whisper of surrender: “Hmm.”

Yuvaan smiles and says: “Bss thodi der ma thk ho jaega. Ap chinta mtt kriye.”
(Just a short while, and you will feel better. Please do not trouble yourself with unnecessary concern.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Sorry, mene apko preshan kr diya.”
(I am sorry; I must have inconvenienced you.)

Yuvaan shakes his head and says: “Sorry mtt kahiye bss khana kha liya kriye. And about preshan krna…apne nhi kiya h. Ap meri wife h, Anish ki Bhabhi h toh apki care krna humara frz h. Ab aap jyada mtt sochiye, okay? Apko abhi dant sunna baki h. Vo apko aise nhi maaf krega.”
(There is no need for apologies—only ensure that you eat your meal. As for troubling me, you have done no such thing. You are my wife and Anish’s sister-in-law; your well-being is my responsibility. Do not overthink the matter. You still have to endure a scolding, you know. He will not let you off so lightly.)

Takshvi’s eyes widen in shock and fear both of which make Yuvaan laugh softly. Anish also enters the room with dinner and places it on the table and says: “Aajao vrna bed pr le aata hu?”
(Come here, or shall I bring you to the bed myself?)

Yuvaan nods and says: “Bed pr hi aaja.”
(Just come to the bed.)

Anish nods and serves Yuvaan and Takshvi, then to himself. Takshvi looks at her plate and says: “Bhaiya, itna sara nhi khati m.”
(Bhaiya, I don’t eat this much.)

Anish raises his eyebrows and says: “Apko ab bhi lgta h ki m apki sununga? Pehle subah itna kum khaya then lunch skip kiya and ab dinner bhi acche se nhi krna h. Kya chahte ho ki m apko hospitalize kr du, haan?”
(Do you truly believe I will listen to you? This morning you ate barely anything, skipped lunch entirely, and now you wish to avoid eating a proper dinner. Do you intend for me to have you hospitalized, is that it?)

Takshvi shakes her head and says while avoiding eye contact: “Nhi, bss thoda kum krdo plate ma se.”
(No, just reduce the portion a little.)

Anish stays firm and says: “Ap kha rhe ho ya m khilau?”
(Will you eat it yourself, or must I feed you?)

Takshvi’s eyes widen in shock and look toward Yuvaan who blinks his eyes and says: “Chote, shant hoja. And Takshvi aap khana start kriye. Jitna kha pa rhe ho utna kha lo.”
(Chote, settle down. And Takshvi, please begin your meal. Eat as much as you can manage.)

Takshvi nods and starts eating and soon, they finish their meal while Anish stands up and takes out some tablets and says while forwarding toward Takshvi: “Y lo. Painkiller h and apko weakness feel nhi hogi.”
(Here—painkillers. You won’t feel weak after this.)

Takshvi doesn’t argue and takes pills because she knows that Anish is already mad at her. After taking pills, she gets up and says while stopping Anish who is going toward his room: “Bhaiya…”

Anish stops and says: “Ji”.

Takshvi: “Sorry. Maaf kr do. Aghe se nhi hoga.”
(I am sorry. Please forgive me. It will not happen again.)

Anish nods and says softly: “Bhabhi apna dhyan rkha kro. Kha pee liya kro. M nhi chahta ki m apke ya bhai k upper gussa kru.”
(Bhabhi, please take care of yourself—eat and drink properly. I do not wish to be angry with you or with Bhai.)

Takshvi nods and says: “I will take care of this.”

Anish nods and says: “Good night. Kl milta hu subah.”
(Good night. I shall see you in the morning.)

Takshvi nods and closes the door after Anish’s departure from the room. Then, she turns and moves toward Yuvaan who is standing on the balcony. She stands beside him and says: “Kya hua?”
(What happened?)

Yuvaan shakes his head and says: “Kuch nhi. Aap khade kyu ho, chlo baitho.”
(Nothing. Why are you standing? Come, sit.)

Takshvi interrupts and says: “M thk hu Yuvaan. Ap kya soch rhe ho, bta skte ho.”
(I am fine, Yuvaan. Could you tell me what you’re thinking?)

Yuvaan gently holds her hands ensuring that she will feel comfortable and says: “Takshvi, m drr gya tha apko vese dekhkr. M janta hu ki apko habit nhi h yaha pr humare sath rehne ki but khud ka dhyan toh rkhna hota h na…. apko agr office jane se problem h toh mtt jaiye ghr se kaam kr lijiye but aise hectic days ma exhaust hokr aap khud ki health k sath mtt kheliye. Anish abhi kuch nhi bola kyunki usko pta h m usko tok deta but bhagwan na kre agr next time aisa hua toh m nhi rok paunga. Vo bht msti mjk ma rehne vala ldka h but apko ya muje kuch hoga toh vo nhi sunega and hume hi suna dega. M bilkul nhi chahta ki apko koi kuch kahe ya fr apko kuch ho. Thoda dhyan rkhiye, please.”
(Takshvi, I must confess that I was quite alarmed upon seeing you in that state. I am aware that residing here with us is not a habit you are accustomed to; nevertheless, one must always take proper care of oneself. If commuting to the office proves burdensome, I suggest you work from home rather than exert yourself unnecessarily. During such demanding days, you should refrain from compromising your health through exhaustion. Anish has remained silent for now, knowing that I would intervene; however, should such a situation arise again, I may not be able to restrain myself. He is generally a lively, playful individual, yet if anything were to happen to either of us, he would not tolerate it and would direct his displeasure toward us. I sincerely wish to spare you from any distress or harm, and I urge you to be more mindful of your well-being, please.)

Having uttered these words, he lifts his gaze toward the vast expanse of the sky, inhaling deeply as though seeking solace in the boundless heavens, striving to rein in the turbulence of his emotions. Takshvi remains wordless, her silence heavy with the realization that every syllable he has spoken is steeped in genuine concern for her welfare—an earnestness she has never before encountered. The weight of his words presses upon her heart, stirring a complex tide of gratitude, guilt, and newfound resolve.

She draws a long, steady breath, willing herself into composure, then steps nearer, her eyes reflecting both determination and contrition. In a voice softened by sincerity, she murmurs, “Yuvaan, I promise. Neither you nor Anish Bhaiya will ever again have reason to complain about me.”

A faint tremor lingers in her tone, yet beneath it lies a firm resolve, as though invisible threads of trust and responsibility are binding her to this vow. Yuvaan’s expression shifts almost imperceptibly, the sternness in his eyes giving way to a quiet reassurance. In that moment, an unspoken understanding settles between them—a fragile but profound accord that may shape the course of their relationship in the days to come.

Yuvaan nods and says: “Aao ab so jao aap.”
(Come, now sleep.)

Takshvi nods and says: “Ji, aap bhi.”
(You too.)

Having uttered these words, they both proceeded toward the bed. After carefully placing a pillow between them as a subtle partition, they settled into their respective sides and soon surrendered to the quiet embrace of sleep.

.............................................................................................................

So, this is the chapter.

I hope you guys like it.

Do votes and comments.

Till next chapter, HAR HAR MAHADEV