New Beginnings (OS) - Page 16

Originally posted by: strancho

When I binged naruto, I liked everyone except naruto and sakura. I never understood both of their obsession with Sasuke. Naruto's obsession I did understand when they fought at the "Valley of the End". I don't like Sakura till today.

I can't remember how many times I have imagined Sakura getting pummelled by Naruto and Sasuke. 😆

She was such a mismatch in team 7. The same thing goes to Anupama as she is such a mismatch to Anuj Kapadia. Both of them are totally obnoxious and annoying as hell .

I was so so so happy when Naruto chose Hinata. It was the best decision ever... Hinata was generous ,kind , beautiful , understanding , cooperative . She didn't mind taking the responsibility of Kawaki...

Vanraj is to Anupama series is exactly same as Sakura is to Naruto series.

However Sasuke giving cold shoulder to Sakura and often choosing Naruto over her was like rain in the desert.

Sakura ended up marrying Sasuke who was absent from her life for 12 years. Just like fans here continuously ask for ApMaan moments same way SasuSaku fans often keep demanding their moments ... Like who ships them ?? ... 😆 Most of the time Sasuke has shown slight interest in her. It's now after they have become parents to Sarada that he has warmed a bit.

Aww I really enjoyed it❤️ kaash show mein bhi maaya ko thodi sensible lover bana dete🤔

Anyways next part jaldi please

Originally posted by: strancho

Everyone does not have laser eyes like you 🤣

Part 9

Anuj woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after a good night's sleep. He got out of bed and walked over to the window, looking out at the beautiful view of the mountains. He felt grateful for this opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As he sat down for breakfast, his phone rang. It was Mayank calling him.

Anuj: Hey Mayank, what's up?

Mayank: Good morning Sir. Actually, I wanted to give you an update on the restaurant project in Delhi. We're almost done, and we're ready to open!

Anuj: That's great news, Mayank! When do we plan on opening?

Mayank: We just need to do the inauguration ceremony, and we're all set. That's actually why I'm calling you. We need you to be present here for the inauguration. Sir, can you please confirm when your availability?

Anuj: Sure, how about next week? I will be back by this Saturday.

Mayank: Sure, sir. I will handle all the arrangements.

Anuj: Good job, Mayank.

Anuj sighed, knowing that he had to cut his stay short and head back to work but he didn't want to leave without seeing Maaya again. He picked up his phone and typed a message to her. "Hey, are you free to meet up today in the evening?" He hit send and waited anxiously for her response. A few minutes later, Maaya replied, "Yes I'm free. Where do you want to meet?" Anuj felt relieved and quickly typed back, "How about the park near your home? At evening 5 pm?" "Done", came the reply.

Anuj arrived at the park ten minutes early but to his surprise, Maaya and Choti were already there. He couldn't help but smile as he watched Choti run around the park, chasing after butterflies and giggling with joy. It was heartwarming to see his little daughter so carefree and happy. He joined in on the fun, playing with Choti and making her laugh even harder.

Maaya couldn't help but admire the easy and natural way Anuj interacted with Choti. She watched with a sense of awe as he played with Choti, making her laugh and smile at his antics. Anuj's carefree nature was infectious, and Maaya found herself feeling more relaxed and happy just being around him. It wasn't that she didn't know it before but she put up a strong wall that did not let her appreciate it.

After playing with Choti for a while, he sat down on the bench beside Maaya. Anuj couldn't help but notice how beautiful Maaya looked. He felt as if her eyes sparkled, and her smile lit up the entire park.

Maaya: How was your day?

Anuj: It went well. How about yours?

Maaya: Same as every day. What did you do today?

Anuj: I attended meetings in the morning. Went to a bookstore in the afternoon and then sat in sun at the palace.

Maaya: At the palace?

Anuj: Why not? Jubbal Palace is great.

Maaya: Gosh, you are so old-fashioned. (They both laughed)

Anuj: I can't deny that. Everything changes each time I return to a place. But the palaces remain in the same place, looking the same. That's why they stay in my memory. I listen to all types of music but I still love music composed by Chopin, Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, and such. Things that survived a long time without changing.

Maaya: I don't know much about music but people like you appreciated them for a long time, and that's why they survived to this day.

Anuj: People like me.. (he smiled gently) Is that so? You wanted to open a help center right? How's that working out?

Maaya: I am working on it. There are a few volunteers who are helping me. We're currently looking for sponsors to help us with the initial funding.

Anuj: Finding sponsors can be tough, but don't give up hope. I'm sure there are people out there who would be willing to support such a great cause.

Maaya smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Anuj for his words of encouragement.

Maaya: Thank you, Anuj. It means a lot to me that you believe in what I'm trying to do.

Maaya found herself opening up to him more and more, sharing her own hopes and dreams for the future. As they talked, the sun began to set behind them, casting a warm glow over the park.

Anuj: It is getting late. We should leave now.

Maaya: Would you like to have dinner with us?

Anuj smiled at the invitation. "I would love to," he said.

Maaya's heart fluttered as she saw Anuj's genuine excitement. She couldn't help but feel drawn to him even more.

Maaya, Anuj, and Choti arrived at Maaya's flat. As soon as they entered, Choti ran to her room to get her favorite toy, leaving Maaya and Anuj in the kitchen. Maaya opened the fridge and started taking out the ingredients for the dish they were planning to make. Anuj offered to help and began to cut the vegetables.

Maaya: Thank you for helping me. It's been a while since I cooked for someone else.

Anuj: No problem, I'm happy to help. What are we making?

Maaya: Dal, rice, and just a simple curry. Choti loves it, and it's quick and easy to make.

Anuj: Sounds delicious. I can't wait to try it.

Anuj began to chop the vegetables while Maaya put a pot of rice on the stove. Choti sat on the kitchen counter, watching them both with interest. Anuj showed Choti how to chop the vegetables as well, and she giggled when she accidentally dropped a piece on the floor.

As they cooked together, Anuj and Maaya continued their conversation from the park. Anuj asked more about the help center Maaya wanted to open, and they discussed ways to find sponsors and volunteers. Maaya was grateful for Anuj's interest and support, and she felt a sense of hope that they could make it happen. As they cooked together, Anuj and Maaya continued their conversation from the park. Anuj asked more about the help center Maaya wanted to open, and they discussed ways to find sponsors and volunteers. Maaya was grateful for Anuj's interest and support, and she felt a sense of hope that they could make it happen.

After about an hour of cooking, they sat down at the table to enjoy their meal. Anuj, who had helped with the cooking, felt a sense of pride as they all took their first bites. The food was delicious, Anuj complimented Maaya on her cooking skills, and they chatted and laughed over dinner.

After dinner, Anuj and Maaya washed the dishes together. They worked in silence for a while, enjoying the comforting sound of water running and the clink of dishes. Anuj couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him as he worked alongside Maaya. It felt like they had known each other for ages. Once they were done, they went to tuck Choti into bed, kissing her goodnight before turning off the lights.

They both went back to the living room, sitting on the couch, facing each other. They were both quiet for a few moments, lost in their own thoughts. Anuj broke the silence.

Anuj: I have to go back. There's some work that needs to be done, and I can't postpone it any longer.

Maaya felt a little disappointed but tried to hide it. She knew that Anuj had to prioritize his work, but she couldn't help feeling a little sad that their time together was coming to an end. Anuj noticed her expression and tried to lighten the mood.

Anuj: Don't worry, I'll be back soon. And we can catch up again.

Maaya smiled weakly, trying to hide her emotions. She didn't want to come across as needy or clingy.

Maaya: Of course, I understand. Work comes first. When are you leaving?

Anuj: I have to be there by Saturday, so I will leave on Friday morning.

Maaya: Anuj, the day after tomorrow there is get together in the old age home. Would you be able to come?

Anuj: Sure. By the way, what's the occasion?

Maaya: Actually, there's a person who had donated a lot recently, the old age home manager wants to introduce him.

Anuj: That sounds interesting. Tell me more about this person who donated.

Maaya: Even I do not know him. He's made some significant donations recently, and the manager wants to introduce him to the residents and volunteers.

Anuj: Nice.

As the evening drew to a close, Anuj got up to leave. Maaya walked him to the door and thanked him for his help and for spending the evening with them.

Anuj: I had a great time

Maaya: Me too. Please drive..

Anuj: I will drive carefully. And I will text you once I reach.

Maaya: Bye, take care.

Anuj: See you soon.

As Anuj drove home, he couldn't help but think about the wonderful day he had spent with Maaya and Choti. He smiled as he remembered the laughter and the good times they had shared. He had enjoyed spending time with Maaya, getting to know her better, and playing with Choti. On the other hand, Maaya couldn't stop thinking about Anuj either. She sat on her couch, her mind wandering back to the time spent with him earlier in the day. She couldn't help but admire his kind and caring nature.

As the night wore on, both Anuj and Maaya lay in bed, lost in their thoughts. The memories of the day kept replaying in their minds, and they couldn't help but feel a sense of longing to be together again.

On the day of the get-together, Anuj arrived early to help with the preparations. He was greeted warmly by the other residents, and he set to work hanging up decorations and arranging the tables. Maaya was already there with Choti, and Anuj couldn't help but feel a flutter in his chest at the sight of her. As he finished hanging up a banner that read "Happy Birthday," he turned to Maaya and asked, "Whose birthday is it today?" Maaya smiled at him, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "It's the old lady over there, who found you handsome," she said, pointing to a woman sitting in a chair. Anuj laughed, feeling a little embarrassed but also pleased. "Well, I hope I can make her day a little bit brighter," he said.

As he worked alongside them, decorating the room for the birthday celebration. He couldn't help but feel a sense of joy and contentment being around Maaya, even though they were just friends. He admired her kindness and strength, and he secretly hoped that she would see him as more than just a friend.

After the decorations were done, the residents of the old age home were eagerly waiting for the special guest who had made the donations for the birthday celebration. They were expecting to see the man who had been known to be generous towards charities. As they waited, Maaya made sure everything was in order, checking the decorations and the refreshments. Anuj couldn't help but notice how happy Maaya looked. Her face was beaming with joy and her smile lit up the room.

However, as the time ticked by, it became clear that he was running late. The manager of the old age home didn't want to delay the celebrations any further. They decided that they should proceed with the cake cutting of the old lady whose birthday it was. As the birthday cake was brought out, the old lady who had found Anuj handsome beamed with delight. She blew out the candles, and everyone cheered and clapped. Anuj made sure to sit next to her and chat with her, and he was touched by her wisdom and kindness.

As Anuj was talking to the old lady, he noticed the commotion at the entrance. The special guest had arrived and the manager was introducing him to some of the residents. Next, the manager was introducing him to Anuj. Just then, Maaya came over with a plate of cake and got shocked when she saw the special guest.

Manager: And this is Maaya, the woman I was talking about. Maaya, this is Mr Amol.

Maaya: Hello, Mr Amol. (her voice shaking)

Maaya handed Amol the plate of cake and excused herself. Anuj noticed that Maaya's expression changed suddenly as she caught sight of Amol. He couldn't quite read her expression. He sensed that something was wrong and followed Maaya as she hurried out of the room. He caught up with her in the hallway and gently asked her what was going on.

Anuj: Maaya, what's wrong? Why did you seem so surprised to see that man?

Maaya: Anuj, I am not feeling well. Can you please drop us home?

Anuj: Yeah, let's go home. I will bring Choti. Then we will leave, okay?

Anuj went inside to bring Choti, and just then Amol appeared in front of Maaya.

Amol: It's been a while Maaya. How well you have hidden. The madam told me she kicked you out because you fell ill, but I knew that wasn't why. They wouldn't kick out a money-maker like you. Although I didn't expect to see your daughter as well.

Maaya: I don't want to talk to you. Leave. Don't create a scene here.

Amol: Ever since you left, I could never sleep because of my longing for you.

Maaya: I am no longer what I used to be. I have left my past behind.

Amol: Has your status as a priest's daughter been restored since then? I did a background check on you.

Maaya was about to leave but Amol held her hand.

Amol: Your daughter is at a tender age. Under you, she will never escape the burden of her low birth. What do you think will happen if I told her about your past?

Maaya: What are you saying right now? Leave me.

Anuj came back to find Maaya trying to free herself from Amol's clutches

Anuj rushed towards Maaya and Amol and demanded Amol release Maaya immediately. Amol was taken aback by Anuj's sudden appearance and his firm tone, he let her hands go.

Amol: So, he is your new toy, ha? Does he know about your disgusting past? Or is he the father of your daughter?

Anuj: Yeah, I am her father. Happy?

Amol: So, you have also got a taste..

Anuj was about to raise his hand but Maaya stopped him. The manager came looking for Amol and he went.

Anuj turned to Maaya and said, "Are you okay?"

Maaya nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. Anuj put his arm around her and guided her towards a quiet place to talk and comfort her. They sat in silence for a while.

Maaya: Is it a sin that I survived? So, I should never feel happy or complain? I work my socks off every day, but I can never pay off my sins. I can't escape from it. I just want to rest now. I want to give up everything.

Anuj: I believe those who survived, did for a reason. You survived because there's something that only you can do in the world. So your staying alive might be a blessing for others. Maaya, you can do whatever you want. You can take a break, or cry. When things are tough, you don't have to put up with them. No matter what, I will stay by your side.

Maaya: You will get hurt. Why do you want to stay by my side?

Anuj: Maybe I will. Yet I will stay by your side.

Maaya felt a sense of relief wash over her as Anuj's words sank in. She knew that she could count on him to support her no matter what, and that meant more to her than anything else in the world. She knew that she had found someone truly special in Anuj, someone who cared about her, wouldn't judge her, and would do anything to help her through difficult times.

Maaya: They say a problem shared is a problem halved, but it's the opposite for me. Still, do you want to stay by my side?

Anuj: I meant what I said, I'll always be here for you, no matter what happens.

Maaya: You asked me if we could be friends. You gave so much comfort and consolation as a friend. I wanted us to remain friends. But I no longer think we can remain friends.

Anuj's face fell as he heard Maaya's words. Maaya looked at him with tears in her eyes. She took a deep breath before speaking again.

Maaya: I love you, Anuj.

Anuj stared at her and could not believe what he heard. He had hoped to hear those words from her, but never in his wildest dreams did he think it would come true like this. For a moment, he was speechless. He simply gazed at Maaya, trying to take in the enormity of what she had just said. He had to be sure he had heard her right.

"What did you say?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Maaya: I love you, Anuj. (Maaya paused for a moment) By the time the callouses on my fingers hardened, I thought my heart would have toughened as well. Since there was nothing special between us. I thought that I would be okay. I told myself that every day. But. I’m not okay. I love you. It’s something I can’t help. My grand plan to fall back on... my toughened heart... has totally failed.

Maaya's eyes were still fixed on him, waiting for his response. Anuj took a deep breath and spoke, his voice trembling slightly.

Anuj: I have been waiting for you to say that. I love you too, Maaya. I have wanted to tell you for so long, but I never knew how you felt about me.

Anuj then took out his phone and gave it to her. He showed her the texts that he had tried to send her when her phone was unreachable. Maaya read through them, tears streaming down her face. She could see the pain and longing in Anuj's words and realized that she had been blind to his feelings all along.

One of the messages read,

"I poise myself on my toes, but I just can't see you.

Sometimes my wait lasts longer, and I feel resentment toward you.

High up in the sky, fleecy clouds drift away.

What shall I say to reach your ears?

We didn't meet, so we can't be parted.

Even though we are not parted, I still can't hold your hand.

So when my wait lasts longer like this, I feel bigger resentment towards you"

I'm so sorry, Anuj," she said, her voice choked with emotion. "I caused you so much pain"

Anuj smiled at her, wiping away her tears. "It doesn't matter now," he said. "What matters is that we're here, together, and we both feel the same way."

It is so beautiful ❤️

I hope this is not last part 🤧

All the little notes you write to yourself, I think there was always an incredible writer hidden within you and now I can see her in full glory!

Dude...the way you have written this, it feels like anyone reading this will just want them both to be together and happy...such convincing writing.

It was a good move to make a character from her traumatic past come into this, it brought out the depth of love and concern Anuj had towards her like nothing else. A way to make Maaya feel that she was safe with him in a way she might have never felt before...

Her confession felt natural and Anuj's reaction too.

The road ahead might not be easy, but you really make us believe that they will make it!

I don't know if this is the last part, but I don't mind either way.

I feel like this is but the start of your journey as a writer and you'll keep writing more beautiful stories...

She confessed❤️This is soooo good Pompy... The deep conversations are love❤️How I adore this couple in your story...

Wow, this story has evolved so beautifully ! Absolutely loving it !! I hope this isn't the last part but I am OK if it is too. Such beautiful narration. My heart is full !!

This was so sappy but enjoyed it pompy 🤗

A secret romantic you are 😲

Last Part

Anuj was driving his car, with Maaya sitting in the front passenger seat and Choti in the backseat. The atmosphere inside the car was silent, with no one saying a word. Anuj was stealing glances at Maaya, trying to read her expressions, but she seemed lost in her thoughts.

Choti, who had been quiet for a while, suddenly piped up,

Choti: Did you two fight?

Anuj and Maaya both looked at her in surprise, wondering where the question had come from. Anuj looked at Maaya and replied.

Anuj: No, we didn't fight.

Choti: Then why are you both so quiet?

Anuj: Choti, your mom, and I have something to tell you.

Choti's eyes widened in surprise.

Choti: What is it?

Anuj: What if I become your Papa?

Choti: What kind of question is that? You are my Papa.

Anuj chuckled listening to her.

Anuj: I meant how about if we become a family? Your mom, me, and you.

Choti: Really? Is it possible?

Anuj: I am ready. It's your mom that we have to convince.

Choti: Maa, can we?

Maaya smiled at her innocent plea, not knowing how to respond.

They reached Maaya's flat after half an hour of driving. Choti was already feeling sleepy, so Anuj put Choti to bed while Maaya prepared some hot tea for them. After putting Choti to sleep, Anuj joined Maaya in the living room. They sat quietly, sipping their tea, lost in their own thoughts. They both sat in the living room, looking at each other awkwardly. Finally, Maaya broke the silence.

Maaya: I'm sorry about the way I reacted in the car. I just wasn't expecting you to say that.

Anuj: I understand. I wasn't expecting it either, but I just couldn't keep it to myself any longer.

Maaya: Anuj, can you wait a bit longer before we take this any further?

Anuj was surprised by the request. He had waited for so long for Maaya to reciprocate his feelings, and now that she had, she was asking him to wait again.

Maaya: I just need some time to open the help center and settle things down.

Anuj: I am an expert at waiting. I'll wait as long as you need me to.

Maaya: Anuj, I am sorry. Don't think that I am trying to keep you at a distance.

Anuj: Let's not try to show each other only our good sides. I hope that we share our pain and flaws so that we can rely on and comfort each other.

Maaya looked at Anuj, surprised by his words. It was not often that someone was willing to show their vulnerable side, especially at the beginning of a relationship. She felt a sense of relief knowing that Anuj was willing to open up to her.

Maaya: I completely agree but I have to admit, I'm a little nervous about opening up like this. It's not easy to show vulnerability.

Anuj: I understand. But remember, we're in this together. We can lean on each other and help each other through anything. I believe that our love is strong enough to withstand anything, as long as we have each other to lean on.

Maaya: Hmm. I think you should leave now. You are leaving early morning tomorrow, right?

Anuj: I don't feel good leaving you alone here. Let me cancel my meeting.

Maaya: Anuj, please don't do that. I promise we will be fine. I will call you if something comes up. I don't want your work to get hampered because of me.

Anuj: Okay. I will come back as soon as the inauguration is done. Umm....Can we go for a short walk?

Maaya: Sure.

They started walking, enjoying the peacefulness of the night. Anuj took a deep breath and looked at Maaya.

Anuj: You know whenever I had a hard time, I used to think, "I should go and see Maaya, if I meet her I will feel better".

Maaya: So, do you feel better now?

Anuj: Yes. When I am with you, I am happy and I keep smiling.

Maaya: How did you fall for someone like me?

Anuj: After I lost Choti's custody case, I lived with pain in my heart. My wound never healed while I lived with that pain. I lived with a pain I can't cut out or let go of my heart to that day when we met for the first time after the case. You helped me see things in a different light. You made me feel alive. You aren't someone, you are the one who helped me let go of the pain that I couldn't let go of for a long time. How about you? I never thought that you would feel anything toward me.

Maaya: You remember, when you did not text me for some days? I became restless and couldn't focus on anything. So, I decided to become friends with you. I hoped that with time I would forget you. Instead, I thought about you every night after pouring out all my energy into work. "What is this emotion? friendship? Sympathy? Or just feeling indebted?" The more I pondered on it, the more it frightened me, so I just tried to ignore it. But the moment I saw you again that day when it was snowing, I realized...that I love you. But the truth is I had known all along, it's just that...I knew from the get-go that I should never show it.

Anuj: When we texted and shared our daily life back then, I thought we would keep doing that. It took us a long time to resume that. Let's not put a coma, this time. Promise me?

Maaya looked at Anuj with affection and nodded. "I promise, Anuj. I don't want to lose touch with you again," she said, squeezing his hand. "I want to be able to share everything with you, good or bad."

Anuj smiled, feeling relieved. "Thank you, Maaya. That means a lot to me," he said.

As they continued their walk, they talked about their hopes, dreams, and fears. As they talked, they realized how much they had in common and how easy it was to talk to each other. They laughed and teased each other, feeling more and more comfortable in each other's company.

Anuj: Maaya, I want to tell you something else as well. My sister, Mukku, and my uncle know about you. I've told them about you

Maaya's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? What did you tell them?" she asked, feeling a little self-conscious.

Anuj smiled. "I told them about how we used to talk all the time, and how much I enjoy spending time with you," he said. "They were so happy to hear that I had someone in my life who makes me happy."

Maaya felt a warm glow spread through her chest. "That's really sweet, Anuj. I'm glad they like me," she said.

Anuj nodded. "They more than like you, Maaya. They love you already. And they would be so happy to listen to anything we have to say about us."

Maaya felt a little overwhelmed by the thought of meeting Anuj's family. The idea of meeting his loved ones made her nervous. But she also felt excited to get to know them and to be a part of Anuj's life. "Thank you for telling me, Anuj. I would love to meet your family someday," she said, smiling.

Anuj watched as Maaya entered her flat, feeling grateful for the chance to spend time with her. He knew that they had a lot of work ahead of them, but he also knew that they had a strong connection that could withstand anything. Maaya waved goodbye feeling happy and content. She knew that things were just beginning between her and Anuj, but she also knew that she was ready for whatever came their way.

Anuj was filled with anticipation as he made his way to Delhi for the inauguration ceremony. He had been looking forward to this day for weeks and couldn't wait to see the project he had been working on finally come to life. But even as he drove, his thoughts kept wandering to Maaya. He called up Sohit to let him know everything and in Shimla, Maaya confided in Sushma.

They had been talking regularly since the night they had confessed their feelings to each other. It was like they had opened up a new chapter in their relationship, one filled with the promise of a brighter future. Even though he was miles away, Anuj felt closer to Maaya than ever before. They would text each other in the mornings, talk during lunch breaks and share their day's experiences before going to bed.

Despite his busy schedule, Anuj always found time for Maaya. He would call her whenever he got a free moment, even if it was just to hear her voice for a few minutes. And Maaya reciprocated in kind, always eager to hear about his day and offer her support.

Finally, the day of the inauguration arrived. Anuj's project was a great success, and he was over the moon with happiness. But even as he basked in the glory of his achievement, his thoughts once again turned to Maaya. As soon as the ceremony was over, Anuj stepped out of the venue and dialed Maaya's number. She answered on the first ring, and Anuj could hear the excitement in her voice.

Maaya: Hey, Anuj! How was it? Did everything go well?

Anuj: It was amazing, Maaya. I wish you were here to see it.

Maaya: I'm so happy for you, Anuj. I can't wait to hear all about it. When are you coming back?

Anuj: I should be able to catch a flight soon. I'll call you as soon as I know for sure. How about your help center? Did you find any investors?

Maaya: Not yet. I have talked to a few people, but nothing concrete yet.

Anuj: Can I help? I can invest or be a sponsor.

Maaya: Is this your way of testing me? "Still? You still won't let me help you?" Are you thinking that?

Anuj: I want to help. I want to do something for you. I can't think of anything but money to help you out. It's tormenting for me too. I never knew I had such a weak imagination.

Maaya: Then go work on your imagination. Take lessons or go to an academy with that money.

As they talked, Maaya realized how much she had missed him. She had grown accustomed to talking to him every day, and the thought of not being able to see him in person made her feel a pang of sadness.

Maaya: I can't wait to see you again

Anuj smiled. "I will be back soon"

And with those words, Maaya felt her heart fill with hope. She knew that she and Anuj had something special, something that would last a lifetime. Whereas Anuj felt grateful for the journey that had led him to Maaya, and excited for the journey that lay ahead.

After months of hard work and dedication, Maaya finally managed to secure investors and set up the help center. The day of the inauguration was a momentous occasion for her, and she was excited to see her dream come to fruition. Maaya was busy putting the final touches on everything. Anuj, Sohit, and Sushma had come to support her. Anuj could see the exhaustion on her face. She looked like she hadn't slept in days.

"Are you okay?" he asked, placing a gentle hand on her arm.

Maaya smiled at him, grateful for his concern. "I'm just a little nervous," she admitted. "This means so much to me, and I really want it to be successful."

Anuj squeezed her arm. "I know it will be," he said. "You've put in so much hard work, and the community needs this. They're lucky to have you."

Maaya smiled up at him, feeling her heart swell with love for this man who was so dedicated to making a positive impact in their community. "I'll be here waiting for you when you're done," he said. "Go do what you need to do."

After the inauguration, Anuj and Maaya were sitting on a bench, watching Choti play in the nearby park. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the surroundings. Maaya leaned her head on Anuj's shoulder and sighed contentedly.

Anuj turned his head to look at her and asked, "What are you thinking?"

"I'm just so happy," she replied. "This has been a dream of mine for so long, and to finally see it come to fruition is just... incredible."

Maaya smiled gratefully and rested her head on his shoulder again. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, watching Choti run around and play with the other children in the park.

Eventually, Maaya broke the silence, "Anuj, I know I haven't been the easiest person to be with lately. I've been so focused on getting this center up and running, I feel like I've neglected our relationship."

Anuj looked at Maaya with a smile on his face and took her hand gently. "Maaya, I understand why you've been so busy and I'm proud of all the hard work you've put into this center. But I want you to know that you're not alone in this. I'm here for you, always," he said, looking deep into her eyes.

Anuj took out a small box from his pocket and opened it to reveal a beautiful diamond ring. Anuj took a deep breath and continued, "You said you promised yourself that you would never hurt Choti again. Will you let me keep that promise too?"

Maaya's eyes welled up with tears as she looked at the ring. She felt a rush of emotions and memories flooding her mind. She thought about all the times they had spent together, the laughter, the tears, the fights, and the makeup. She knew in her heart that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with Anuj.

"Yes, Anuj," she said, tears streaming down her face.

Choti came running towards them, excited to see what was going on. Anuj picked her up and said, "We are really a family now".