Chapter: Drenched in Unspoken Feelings

Chapter: Drenched in Unspoken Feelings

Prithvi was sitting on the open terrace of the second floor, the late afternoon sun casting long, amber shadows across the stone floor. From the , the entire haveli seems to breathe, the captivating views of the garden bringing the fragrance of flowers. Dust drifting upward with the arm breeze. Across from him the event manager was sitting on the plush cushion. He held her tablet in hand on the table , and she was going over the final details for the engagement ceremony scheduled for the next day evening.

From one of the wings of the haveli terrace the huge courtyard can be viewed clearly . Although the manager had already talked to his grandfather and Siddharth , Sanjeev still wanted Prithvi to go through the details as he wanted no omission from their side . The engagement will be held in the large living hall room of the haveli.

Although she had already discussed everything with his grandfather and Vardhan, Sanjeev had insisted Prithvi personally review every arrangement. There could be no oversight—not for an event of this scale.

“Everything has been ready Mr. Singhaniya as I showed you .” Sakshi explained, swiping through images . “ My teammates will have jumped into work early tomorrow morning, and the seating will be arranged in a semi-circle for ease of the media-coverage.”

Prithvi listened intently, his posture relaxed yet commanding, one arm resting against arm wings of the plush couch. “ Not only Rajasthan— this engagement will be remembered across India. “ His words had a trade of pride woven into his calm voice .“ The press and media will be present . Every major newspaper will carry it . So, You can imagine the scale we're aiming for”

so you can imagine how much bigger event we're looking for “ Prithvi stated keeping his voice steady , hint of pride and haughtiness

Sakshi nodded respectfully , “ Of course, Mr. Singhhaniya. You can trust us completely. We are one of India's most efficient event management companies.”

Prithvi inclined his head once, signaling approval. As their discussion drew to a close, Sakshi rose from the cushioned sofa , gathering her tablet, before leaving she added politely “ And Sir , you and your wife's wedding reception was also hosted by us . You may rely on our teammates' arrangements without hesitation. “

The moment Sanyogita’s name was mentioned, something shifted inside him. A faint , unguarded smile touched his lips .

The vivid memory of the morning surfaced. When his eyes caught a glimpse of her slim waist , his breathing hitched momentarily, she was pretty dissolved in her task so oblivious of his presence behind her.

It was their first kiss after marriage—unexpected, hesitant yet burning with something unmistakablely real . For a moment he had wished the time would halt itself . He had no intention to let her slip away from his arms .

He had noticed before how she would stiffen whenever he drew near — as if she sensed she was standing at the edge of something she wasn't ready to fall into .

It wasn't fear of him . But it was fear of herself. But today was different. Today, he had seen clearly ; the same desire sparkling in her blue grey eyes , burning in the same fire as it was within him . However , much she restrained but her body betrayed her heart. And her lips…her lips…her lips had answered him in a way words never could.Yet , he was not a man to rush what mattered.She needed time to understand her bubbling emotions and he was willing to give it . Somewhere within, he knew she was beginning to fall for him .

Once, he had believed that it would be difficult for them both to turn their arranged marriage into love would take years — it would need umpteen patience, compromise and distance to bridge slowly. But the more time they spent together, the more irresistibly drawn he felt towards her.

He wasn't someone who would easily sway . Years in business had taught him to recognise false admiration, hidden intention, to distinguish genuine affection from interest rooted in wealth and status.

Sanyogita was nothing like those people. Despite being born into privilege, she carried no arrogance, no hunger for his property or his name . She possessed a quiet self esteem — only wanting to be known for who she was , woman all her own,, not as her father daughter, nor merely as Prithviraj Singhaniya's wife .

And that very independence thought both fascinating and unsettling him . At times, it drew his admiration; at others, it tested his pride …as if she remained untouched by the authority his name carried.

Still, he wanted to be her strength, not her shadow.

Lost in a deep train of thoughts, Prithvi barely noticed when Sakshi left after a polite smile. He acknowledged her with a polite nod.

A worker approached to clear the table. Prithvi leaned back slightly, his gaze drifting toward the main gate below. That was when he noticed it.

A man was standing near the entrance, half hidden behind a pillar . In his hands was a string of white flower gajra . A young girl approached him , unaware . With a shy smile , the man gestured for her to turn around. She did and then he gently tucked the gajra into her hair . The girl vividly giggled and rang softly in the courtyard.

Prithvi’s chest tightened.

Without looking away, he asked the worker cleaning the table, “Where are those flower gajras being sold?”

The man followed his gaze. “Kunwarsa, there’s a small stall just across the road from the haveli.”

Prithvi nodded once. “Bring one. Immediately.”

“Ji, Kunwarsa,” the worker replied, bowing his head. “ A man has put a stall just the opposite side of the haveli “

Prithvi nodded his head “ bring a one immediately “

As the man finished wiping the table and gestured to his helper to continue the rest of the wo—

Prithvi suddenly straightened. “Stop,” he said.

The worker froze.

“I’ll go myself,” Prithvi added, already rising to his feet.

The breeze brushed against his face as he stepped toward the stairs, the image of white flowers and a certain pair of eyes quietly following him.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Sanyogita followed Ruchi, Nidhi, and the other siblings of the Singhaniya family as they explored every nook and corner of the haveli, her eyes wandering over the intricately carved pillars and the gleaming marble floor , remnants of grand history meticulously preserved by their ancestors. Nevertheless, amidst the laughter and lively chatter around her , her mind drifted somewhere else .

Even though she admired the grandeur, her mind was consumed with a different kind of thrill . Her thoughts were fastidious, clung to the memory of the metallic taste of Prithvi's lips , the heat of his touch sending a surge of urgency through her body. The kiss that was meant to be for Yash, but it had happened with Prithvi instead . Sudden memory sent a shiver through her spine , warming her cheeks deepening her guilt “ How would she face Yash . And then there was Prithvi ,...

“ Alright, we’ll continue our remaining adventure the day after tomorrow . For now, it's time to rest . More family is on the way ,” Pranali suggested, stepping in with Varsha and Ruchi's mother .

“Tomorrow is an auspicious day — Pragya’s engagement duty is upon us, and we have so much to prepare “

Meanwhile, Pragya was off to the royal saloon, Reyansha and Ishanvi had accompanied her . One of the biggest days of her life was just around the corner and she was determined to look her best , ready to stun her fiance . Although she couldn't join the exploration this time, with others to explore the haveli, she was aware of each nook and concern of the vast haveli since her childhood. Nidhi couldn't help but feel joyful , her youngest cousin's sister very soon leapt into matrimony.

“You and Ishanvi as the elder-daughter-in-law so you both have plenty of responsibilities ahead , thik hai na ?” Varsha's authoritative tone made Sanyogita nod in agreement, a nervousness washed over her .

“ Dadima , do you know when we are coming today, on the way Pragya was positively glowing with happiness. “

“ Of course,... why shouldn't she , …Nidhi Di, “ Soumya expressed , her face lighting up “ it's a love marriage, after all !“

She clasped her hands dreamily ,mind flight with romantic vision “ She clasped her hands dreamily, her mind alight with romantic visions.

Nidhi’s brow arched in a teasing gesture “ Then we have to talk to Shanaya Aunty , find a suitable match…” Nidhi playfully winked at Sanyogita.

Sanyogita managed a smile, even as Pranali suppressed a grin.

But Varsha's smirks deepened, her voice firm “ In our family , marriages are arranged by the elders' decision only . Pragya's wedding with Bansal , is happening because the family is well dignified , reflecting our family's value and status. Marriage isn't just about two people; it's joining families and traditions.”

“But that's rare, happened in king and queen eras , mainly for political alliances. Marriage should be a connection between two hearts and souls !” Soumya blurted out before she even could swallow her words.

Varsha’s gaze turned icy , pinning Soumya in her place. Sensing the tension, Nidhi laughed softly, almost trying to ease the situation. “ Soumya …, you've been reading too many philosophical books lately — very soon in the city a book fair will be held , we will explore there soon. What would you say? “

Both women chuckled, the mood shifting back to lightness. Seeking the opportunity they both sniped through the spot.

In the entire lively banter, Sanyogita remained silent. She felt adrift— lost in a labyrinth of emotions , and didn't know how to come out of it . Suddenly her profound thinking was interrupted by a gentle touch on her shoulder.

Pranali’s warm gaze bore into hers, filled with motherly concern. “Sanyo... What's wrong, beta? You seem miles away.”

Pranali looked at her in maternal affection “Sanyo…what happened beta ? Is there anything that is bothering you ? You seem to be lost ”

Sanyogita quickly shook her head, forcing calmness into her voice. “ No , Mom …I'm exhausted from the long journey, hence, I couldn't sleep well last night.” she lied to shield her turmoil.

A soothing smile radiated across Pranali's face “go and take a rest in your room. If you need anything to drink or eat, just let me know— thik hai beta. …Don't stress about the tasks however. I’ll manage everything else .” Pranali smiled, her soothing presence a balm for Sanyogita’s racing heart.

As Sanyogita nodded, she marveled again at how Pranali felt like both her mother-in-law and her own mother. It was her gentle strength that propelled Prithvi to carry the weight of his family’s business with such grace.

Sanyogita stared at Pranali. Oftentimes she thought, was she really her mother-in-law or her own mother . Maybe because of Pranali's calming nature , Prithvi got his strength to take huge responsibility to handle the business.

However, she nodded her head in agreement , yet her heart was beating unevenly. As they all headed downstairs, uneasiness still lingered her chest best unevenly as they defended down the stairs .. How would she face Prithvi after what had happened?

And then , her eyes directed towards her left foot , she realized with a jolt that she had left one of gold chain anklets behind. The special anklets Prithvi had gifted her after his recent trip — one he had insisted she wear , took a promise that she would never remove them.

*********

Her footsteps carried her quietly through the haveli, retracing her earlier steps. Finally , by the renovated old swimming pool ..which was modernized yet still reflecting royal elegance, she spotted it glinting under the porch light . The pool was situated in the middle of the large haveli , slightly secular.

Sanyogita heave a relaxing breath , as a deep relief washed over her . As she approached to take her anklet, her pupil went dilated , a chills of wave ran through her body almost instantly a scream pierced the stillness of the atmosphere surrounding the pool .

“Aaahhh!!!! “ Sanyogita jumped back instinctively, her heart nearly leaping out of her throat. She clutched the hem of her kurta tightly.

Prithvi who was searching for Sanyogita with gajra in his hand , suddenly occupied in phone calls , heard a screaming…stood frozen momentarily. In an instant he disconnected the call and ran toward the source of the sound . His brow furrowed, eyes widened , a line of confusion etched on his face . Prithvi saw , Sanyogita was standing there, her hand one hand over her eyes and with the other hand she was waving downwards.

“ shoo,..soohoo..soho!!! She kept whispering, suddenly stumbling back a little before she could hit the ground, Prithvi leaned closer and caught her in his arms. He made her stand properly.

When she stood, tugged her small baby hair strands behind her ear. Her long hair was fleeting behind her back

“Are you … alright? ” he asked, his voice was laced with concern

“”...Y..yes “ she stammered , nodding her head

“ what happened, I heard your screaming!” His expressions softened watching her safe.

Sanyogita’s mumbled, unclear “ I…I..” she pointed towards the side , fingers even shaking.

Following her direction , he noticed a large camouflage, grotesque , sitting over the green grass , nearby the pool pavement.

“ You mean…you scream because of that! Little creature? ” Prithvi stared at her astonishingly , a teasing grin spreading across his cheeks instantly . “Sanjh …, “ He began to laugh heartily " you scared of a camouflage ” His hands slid behind his hips.

Sanyogita smirked , eyes narrowed “are you making fun of mine?” His cheeks burn with embarrassment, still unwilling to leave her ground “ I don’t like camouflage, it's awful!” Her body shook with disgust and then exclaimed in a mockery " is your haveli a jungle!”

Prithvi's shoulders moved up and down observing her little facial changes, nevertheless he controlled his laugh “ Okay ..I stop ,” his mouth went closed then parted to convey “ Camouflage is quite common in around bushes and trees, and apart from that what are you doing here btw , don't say you that you can understand their language like you can do of foxes !”

“Viraj , aap hamara majak udha rahe hai !” She’s eyes widened, irritation occupied her, her hands slid behind her hips , her expression was more like an angry kitten than threatening “ humhe koi shok nahi hai yaha ghumne ka “ her cheeks flushing, puffy, “ ,..I was searching for one of my important belongings. “ Her confession was hesitant

Prithvi’s heart melted at her cuteness. Suddenly he had the desire to pull her cheeks turning into an angry cute kitten.

“ What?" Prithvi brow furrowed, shaking off all his desires

Sanyogita lifted a little of the palazzo , showed her legs “ see..mistakenly one of my anklets fall here “

Prithvi eyes move up slowly from her leg to her face ,her eyes sparkling innocence. His breathing hitched, his eyes stuck to her cute worrying expression .

“ I was searching for my anklet,” Sanyogita added softly.

He tilted his head as he glanced at it, then back at her. Relief washed over his face before mischief replaced it.,

Kneeling down to pick up the anklet, he teased “Sanjh , you're incorrigible…you screamed because of a tiny creature, ”

Sanyogita's smirked deepened which was transformed into worry “ Viraj , don't go close , it's very poisonous I heard. It will bite you !”

Prithvi loved her concern but his reply was masking with tease “ Don’t worry, Noone can bite me as deeper as my little fox “

Sanyogita's eyes widened, her jaw dropped dramatically “ Viraj…, you're terrible!”

“ And in anger , you appeared as Anabelle, “ he grinned .

Pirthvi waved his hand , the camouflage ran toward the greenery and hid behind the flower tree .

Sanyogita smirked , she clasped her hands over her chest “ When I'll get a chance will take this revenge “

Prithvi grinned , “ Okay le Lena — magar , Prithviraj Singhaniya turned every opportunity worth it” He winked

Sanyogita’s pulse quickened . She watched him , stood before her and straight, confident, without any hesitation.

“ wear it!”

“ What ?” She asked confuse

He showed the anklets, letting it hang down from the grip of his hand .

She nodded her head slowly. Prithvi kneeled on his leg. Sanyogita looked at him in awe — a proposing style.

“ apna pao do !” He said

Sanyogita nodded, as she put her left leg over his thigh , goosebumps sprouted through her skin , his hand slid gently around her ankles, she shivered under the heat of his hand against her skin..

Prithvi was busy helping to fix the anklet around her leg , he said without looking at her “ Waise why are you so worried , because of this anklet …it just a simple anklet “

She retorted back immediately “ No . You asked me never to take these out and they're beautifully gorgeous “ words slipped out in a motion.

Prithvi lifted his head , and met her gaze. He was still sitting there proposing style .

He stood on his knees , after Sanyogita withdrew her leg and stood straight on the floor .

“khair …kuch der pehle ek paal k liye aisa laga ki …!” He stopped, masks his fear with a relieved breathing

“ Ki what ? “ Her curious glance looked onto him .

“ Jaisa, pura Haveli little fox se hijack ho gai ho !” He quipped, vaguely,

Sanyogita’s cheeks burned hotter, “ Viraj …” however, gradually her expression turned into a beautiful laugh

Prithvi joined her , suddenly something around the bushes shifted , Sanyogita again saw that camouflage running towards the other side on the pavement, she stepped closer to Prithvi, hugged him tightly,

“ little fox !!” his hands slid around her waist...their laughter filled the atmosphere of the pool.

She pushed him slightly, embarrassed “ Kharate Singhaniya!”

Prithvi's eyes darken only to realise too late they were both standing by the edge of the pool . He grabbed her hand instinctively for balance, but the wet marble betrayed him , and tighter they splash right into the water .

Sanyogita snickered , both from shock and amusement . Prithvi’s hand was still resting around her waist pulled back suddenly in a snap as something had fallen into his eyes.

“ aah!! “

“ Viraj , let me help you ,” she said , moving closer into the water , reaching out to touch his cheek , her hand flew to his face , and blew lightly to remove the invisible danger.

Prithvi stopped struggling his hands swiftly again around her waist, her body pressed against his , he felt the softness of her curves very close, was both amusing and tempting. When Sanyogita was busy concentrating to remove his uneasiness , Prithvi's greedy eyes were busy drinking her beauty. He swallowed hard , his heart was hammering wildly .

“ aab , thik hai ?” She asked, her tone was laced with concern

Prithvi didn’t respond, as if her words weren't reaching his brain. Suddenly she felt his arms pulling her closer than before. Their bodies were impossibly close ,their hearts even thudding in sync.

Sanyogita's breathing caught , eyelashes cast down on her cheeks, trying to free from his grip ,but Prithvi didn’t let her go.

“ Why are you avoiding me at lunch today?” He stared at her softly, pulling her just a fraction closer . “ Even since lunch .. you didn’t speak .”

Her voice faltered, her hands wanted to push him away , yet at the same time , to pull him closer. She was unable to utter any words.

He murmured against her lips “ Sanjh…!

She shivered as he only had the authority to whisper her name like that .

She lowered her eyes daring not to look into his mystic maze. “ hume jana chaihye , “ her breathing hitched , she put her hands over his chest to shove him “sab hamara intazar kar rahe honge !” his breathing fanned around her mouth and neck.

Prithvi pulled her closer instead , her hands pressed against his shoulder

“ Let them wait.. !” his voice dropped low, almost a growl, sending shivers down her spine … , his index slipped beneath her chin — titled her face up , brushing wet hair from her cheeks as those were obstructing her glowing face.

She shivered, he felt her nervous breath , his eyes glided to her lips which trembled beneath his touch . His fingers slid down behind her ear and his thumb bruised her chin.

Her pulse raced. “Someone will come!” she stammered ,eyes went shut , she held his shoulders tightly for support or desire he couldn't comprehend.

“Let them see… I don’t care,” he whispered nonchalantly , his lips brushing softly against her temple.

Suddenly he desired to taste her lips once again . His hand drew her close, holding behind her nape. He bent his head slowly near to her mouth , Sanyogita shivered, her gripped over his shirt tightened. Prithvi felt her breast pressed into his chest , her nipples stiffened, rubbed against his damp shirt.

His nose nuzzled against her cheeks , she his lips brushing against her, a wave of desire consumed her so deeply, she forgot about everything but this only .

Prithvi's lips parted slightly only to take her lips into his .

The word shrank in their surroundings, everything seemed to disappear—the pool, the evening setting sun , shame of if any elder caught them together in their vulnerable phase .

They pulled apart—not because they wanted to , but because air became necessary.

Warm filled Sanyogita's cheeks , her breath was uneven still, her lips however still tingling till the memory of his lips . Water rippled gently around them , their rhythm broke only by the rise and fall of their chests.

For a moment, neither spoke . As if words would ruin what they were feeling .Their captive gaze held each other .

His eyes searched for a subtle clue of her expression—the way her damp lashes trembled, casting a shadow over her pink cheeks , she tried to steady herself but her hammering of her chest reverberated against his chest.

Her lips parted as if to say something—anything , but no sound came out . Instead, she swallowed softly,her gaze dropping briefly before lifting again , this time braver.

Prithvi's grip loosened at her waist , not to release her but just enough to let her breath . His thumb bruised a slow , unconscious stroke against the damp skin of her jaw . As if a silent question or an urge not to let the gripped to lose.

Sanyogita's breathing hitched just when his hand lingering down her spine, overpowered all her self control.

Prithvi’s gaze darkened as their head gradually leaned in once more .His breathing deepened, so was hers .Gradually the distance between them was eaten . Sanyogita’s eyes shut once again, unable to bear his intense gaze, her heart was racing wildly . Prithvi pulled her closer without a second thought as if she was his only salvation .

Everything unsaid hovered between them—warm, fragile, yet dangerously real .

“ Mammu … look what I drew !” Neeraj's voice echoed in the empty hall , as his tiny hands were holding a note book , his small eyes sparkling curiosity.

Sanyogita's eyes snapped open , and she pulled back . Prithvi pushed back and spun around, making her hide behind his back . They instantly pulled apart like guilty teenagers caught by the teacher .

Neeraj froze in the mid-step, gasping widely. His tiny eyes blink..once ..then twice.

Then—

A smile radiated in his small cheeks, his eyes were shimmering with innocent curiosity. His words slipped , laced with incontinence and curiosity, “ Maamu , mujhe bhi pool mein aapke saath khelna hai ! “ his tiny steps move ahead , but he suddenly found himself in the mid air—

Pranav caught him early in his arms, …he grinned while holding the little tornado in his arms. He couldn't believe his eyes. What he had just witnessed within a fraction of a moment.

Prithvi stood still in the water , Sanyogita held her squeezing shut because of embarrassment.

Meanwhile , Pranav’s words shot like an arrow wrapped in teasing words.

“ Bhaiya aap kya kar rahe they meri Bhabhi Maa ke saath ?” He looked anywhere but not at his brother , “ Aap jaante hai na, shayad honeymoon key jaga Pragya ke engagement party galti se agaye hai .”

Prithvi clenched his teeth , “ Those aren't your business. Why do you come by the way ?” Prithvi hid his embarrassment beneath his fake anger.

Pranav’s grinned didn't faltered, not a bit “I don’t want to ruin your and bhabhi's romance but I came to let you two know Rest of the members have arrived and they were all waiting for you two meet in the living room “

Prithvi shot him a look of mock fury, shielding Sanyogita behind him.

Neeraj was struggling like a tiny wolf in his uncle's arms , his hands and feet jerking up and down “ Pranav Mammu leave me….” Neeraj shouted" I want to swim. Prithvi Mammu told Pranav Mammu to drop me…Unless mein khana nahi kahunga!”

Pranav's grinning deepened.“Beta… tumhara Prithvi Mammu abhi kuch aur hi khelna ke mood mein hai “ Pranav grinned mischievously , he turned back before leaving “ Waise bhaiya, ghar mein buzurg bhi hain, chhote bacche bhi… meri tarah. Sabko bigaad mat dena. Carry on, bhabhi-bhaiya.”

Neeraj kicked his tiny legs, utterly unconcerned by adult embarrassment.

Neeraj tone was fastidious “ Mammu mujhe swimming sikhna hai, I wanna swim with Mammu “ his tiny limbs kicked in the air

Pranav giggled with intensity “ Swimming mein sikha dunga , chote !”

“No , Mamma said you doesn’t even remember where your socks lies , you are very careless , if you drawn me in the water what will I do “Neeraj clenched teeth, keep shouting like a rhyme

Pranav’s grin faltered. “…Wah re beta. Seedha character assassination... let see who will buy you chocolates “

Neeraj showed his uncle a grin by pulling out his tongue “ Rockstar Mammi gives me chocolates every day .

Pranav mouth left open m baffled by the progress of his four old nephew “ lagta hai ...bachhon ki pocket money bhi humse zada hai “

Neeraj grinned “ that's why I said I'll swim with Bade Mammu. He is teaching Rockstar Mammi to swim in the pool “

Pranav looked at his little nephew's weird idea regarding his elder brother . But deep down he chuckled at what exactly his brother and sister in law were doing in the pool .

As Pranav and Neeraj's voice gradually faded away, Prithvi was hoping Noone would come and find them in that condition and unless nobody could save them from gossip . However, a faint hint of smile tugged in his lips in disbelief at his younger brother's interruption and little nephew's urge to play with him in the pool.

When he spun around, Sanyogita was already on the pavement, her eyes were all fixed at him , complaining and angry.

“ Tum mujhe aise kyun dekh rahi ho?” Prithvi flinched back slightly.

Sanyogita smirked, “ Swimming practice ho rahi thi … Huhh!!" she uttered sarcastically.

*************

She took a towel near the pool side room and wrapped it around herself, and marched straight toward their bedroom—each step stiff with embarrassment and silent panic.

Prithvi blinked once… twice. Then followed.

He caught up with her just as she pushed the bedroom door open. The door shut behind them with a soft thud.

Sanyogita turned around sharply, arms crossed, cheeks already betraying her with a furious pink flush.

Her cheeks burned with embarrassment and horror of being caught by a kid and her brother-in-law, in an awkward moment with her husband.

When they reached their bedroom, they immediately closed the door as if fearful of being caught once again, by another prying eyes.

“ Sab kuch aapki galti hai!" She turned into a fluid of motion. Her body was burning with shame and embarrassment.

“ Meri wajah se!" He pointed at him , then his hands dropped on his either waist .

Sanyogita's chest was still rising up and down, “ You know na !,” she said through clenched teeth, “You little nephew , he is just a kid by looks but when he opens his mouth — a bullet gun, doesn't have a filter. Whatever he saw her said everything word to word.”

Prithvi was standing, far too relaxed for a man whose reputation was about to be destroyed by a four-year-old. “Achha?” he said innocently. “Toh kya problem hai?”

Her eyes narrowed. “Problem yeh hai ki he will tell everyone—Bade Mammu Rockstar Mammi ke saath pool mein chipak rage the.” Sanyogita's mouth grimaced , as she demonstrated little Neeraj.

Prithvi’s lips twitched. A faint chuckle escaped. “Chipak rahe the?” he repeated thoughtfully. “Thoda exaggeration nahi ho gaya?”

She glared at him sharply.“ Aapko eh mazaak lag raha hai?”

He stepped closer, voice dropping into that familiar teasing tone that always made her lose arguments before they even began.

“Waise,” he said, tilting his head, “When we’re kissing …then you seem like you have no problem ..huh?”

Silence.

Absolute, deadly silence.

Sanyogita froze. Her eyes widened so much it was almost comical. The heat of embarrassment rushed straight to her cheeks, then climbed shamelessly to her ears.

“V-Viraj..!” she stammered, completely thrown off balance.

He grinned, slow, unapologetic, victorious. “Dekha?” he said softly. “Wahan toh tumhari ..” He winked as he added " saari complaints mute hogayi thi .”

Her chest fluttered, immediately she turned away instantly, flustered beyond recovery, tugging at the edge of her towel. “Aap… aap bilkul besharam hai.”

“Oaky , so you're my besharam wife ,” he replied cheerfully

Her jaw tightened , yet she risked a glance at him, but to her surprise only to find him watching her with open amusement, eyes warm, and a gentle smile.

Her annoyance fuelled. Pointing a finger at him she said “…Agar Neeraj ne kuch bhi ulta-seedha bola na,” she warned weakly, “Hum aapse bilkul bhi nahi karenge.”

Prithvi's eyes widened with surprise, his hands dropped on her shoulder. “Promise. I'll give him chocolates, then things will settle.”

She gasped. “You will bribe a kid ?”

He shrugged. “Family reputation bachane ke liye kuch bhi.”

Despite herself, a small laugh escaped her. She covered her face instantly.

Prithvi’s smile softened.

*********

Sanyogita slipped into her casual indore- attire . Nevertheless, she couldn't summon the courage to step out of the room since they returned from the pool side . The walls felt too loud , even the silence seemed exposing ; every little sound reminding her of their kiss . Of him.

She stood near the window, nervously twisting the edge of her dupatta, when Prithvi’s calm voice grounded her.

“Sanjh…” he said softly, walking toward her. “Tum itni ghabra kyun rahi ho?”

She didn’t turn. Her voice came out small, almost embarrassed. “Sab log… bahar… kya sochenge?”

Prithvi smiled knowingly. He came to stand behind her, close..but not touching. “Don’t worry,” he said gently. “Koi kuch nahi kahega. Aur waise bhi… we didn't commit a crime .”

She finally faced him, eyes wide, cheeks already warm. “crime?”

“Haan,” he teased lightly. “We are a husband–wife. And whatever has happened between us…”

His tone shifted—deeper, slower.“…are very common .”

Sanyogita’s eyes widened further, words tumbling out before she could stop herself.
“Kya common hai?”

Prithvi chuckled—a low, dangerous sound that sent a ripple through her spine.He stepped closer, deliberately invading her space. One arm slid around her waist, firm and sure, pulling her flush against him.

“Yehi,” he murmured, eyes dropping to her lips and back to her eyes. His words were delivered quietly. “Jo humare beech ho raha hai… jo hum dono ek-dusre ke liye mehsoos kar rahe hain.”

She stood catching on her breathing.His nearness unsettled her senses ; his warmth, his scent, the steady strength of his chest beneath her palms. Her heart started racing, loud enough that she was sure he could hear it.

Prithvi leaned down slightly, his nose brushing her cheek, his breath whispering against her skin like a promise. She closed her eyes instinctively, overwhelmed and conflicted yet drawn helplessly toward him.

It felt like surrender.

His one hand lifted, his fingers tilting her chin up. Slowly then achingly slowly he shortened the distance between them. Their lips brushed, just a whisper of a touch.

His arm tightened around her waist possessively. He felt her heartbeat pounding against his own—fast, frantic, honest.

Sanyogita lost the last thread of her restraint. Her lips parted unconsciously, breath trembling—

The door flew open.

“Aryeee!”

Pranav immediately slapped his palm over his eyes. “Arre baap re, main toh andha ho gaya”

Beside him, Soumya stood leisurely chewing bubblegum, eyebrows wiggling, grinned spreading ear to ear. “Wah! … kya scene hai!”

Sanyogita gasped and shoved Prithvi away in panic. Prithvi reacted instantly, pulling her behind his broad frame like a shield.

Reyansha meanwhile, stood rooted to the ground . A soft chuckle escaped her mouth but for a moment.

But Pragya's eyes dropped with shyness. Soumya who was standing beside Pranav giggled mischievously.

His ears burned, but he masked it with fake fury. “Pranav! Pragya ! Tum dono manners naam ki cheez bhool gaye ho kya? Knock karna nahi aata?”

But Prithvi's stern voice which usually brought chills tonight felt like words on air.

Pranav peeked through his fingers, grinning shamelessly. “Bade bhaiya… romance bhi darwaza band karke karte hain. Aap ko bhi ye yaad nahi tha kya !

Prithvi clenched his jaw. Behind him, Sanyogita stood frozen, cheeks blazing red, eyes glued to the floor.

Rudra continued chewing his gum like he was watching a daily soap. “Waise bhaiya,” he said casually, “agar bolein toh Pranali bua ko bhi bata doon? Jab dessert mil jaata hai na… toh bhookh kisi aur cheez ki nahi lagti.”

Pranav burst out laughing. “Sorry bhaiya-bhabhi,” he said mischievously, “aapke romance mein haddi banne ke liye .Par neeche poori family bhookh-hartaal pe baithi hai. Dining table pe aap dono ka intezaar ho raha hai.”

Sanyogita’s face turned an even deeper shade of red— she wished the ground would swallow her whole if that was possible.

Prithvi snapped, pointing at the door. “Now. Get. Out.”

Pranav smirked as he walked away. “Haan haan… pehle shaadi nahi karni thi, aur ab bhaiya full love-sick Romeo bane ghoom rahe hain.”

Everyone laughed loudly as they disappeared down the corridor.

The door shut. Silence returned.

Prithvi turned back slowly only to find Sanyogita staring anywhere but at him.

He smiled to himself. Her innocence.Her chaos.

Outside the door, faint footsteps passed followed by Pranav’s exaggerated whisper:

“Pragya Di , I told you na— bhaiya ka romance timing is lethal.”

“Shhh,” Soumya replied. “I’m still processing. Bhabhi looked like she was about to faint.”

Prithvi closed his eyes for half a second.

Then, very calmly, he called out, “If either of you say one more word—”

Their footsteps ran away.

A faint smile tugged her lips despite herself , and she was forced to pretend to stay offended at him.

Prithvi looked at her, surprised.

His expression softened “Come,” he said gently. “Before they decide to announce this at the dining table.”

She nodded nervously.

And as they stepped out together, her hand slid, naturally, instinctively—into his.

Prithvi noticed.

He said nothing.

But his grip tightened, just a little.