FF||A Chance to Love Again?|| Chapter 10 - 15 pg 6 Updated 08/02 - Page 6

Chapter 12

“You know, Geet, tum Maan se pyaar karne lage ho,” Pari remarked casually as she sipped her coffee.

Maan had already left for his meeting, and with little else to do, Geet and Pari had decided to visit a nearby café, bringing Prem along.

Geet choked on her tea, spluttering in surprise. Pari quickly leaned forward and patted her back.

“Don’t die on me, Geet,” Pari teased, her lips curving into an amused smile.

Geet glared at her, reaching for a tissue to wipe her lips. “Tum yeh theory kahaan se layi?” she demanded, her voice sharp.

“Come on, it’s damn obvious! You’re jealous, possessive, and totally in love with him.”

“Hello!” Geet snapped her fingers in front of Pari’s face. “Wake up and smell the coffee, honey.”

“Darling, you need the coffee more than I do,” Pari quipped, unfazed.

“Pari!” Geet growled in frustration.

“Come on, Geet, you should know the signs. Didn’t you feel like this for Arnav once?” Pari asked softly, her tone now more serious.

Geet froze. The words hit her like a bolt of lightning. She hadn’t thought of Arnav in... how long had it been? Weeks? Months? She couldn’t even remember. Her mind had been consumed by Maan and Prem lately. The guilt tightened around her chest like a vice. How could she have forgotten Arnav, the man she had loved so deeply? Tears stung her eyes, and she looked down, desperate to hide her emotions.

“Pari, I’m going back to the room,” she muttered, her voice barely audible. Without waiting for a response, she tucked the blanket securely around Prem and stood up, walking away hurriedly.

________________________________________

Later that day, Maan returned to the room, a sense of relief washing over him as he stepped inside.

“Hey, Geet,” he called out, noticing her seated on the couch, staring blankly at the television with Prem nestled in her arms.

She didn’t respond, lost in her thoughts. Pari’s words had thrown her into a spiral of guilt and confusion. The idea that she had forgotten Arnav, even for a moment, weighed heavily on her heart. How could she? Arnav was her first and only love—wasn’t he? Could anyone truly love twice?

“Geet,” Maan called again, moving to sit beside her.

“Huh?” She blinked, snapping out of her reverie.

“Kahaan kho gayi ho?” he asked, his brow furrowing with concern.

“Nahi... kuch nahi,” she replied, her voice faltering.

“Okaaayyy,” Maan drawled, studying her carefully.

“What?” she snapped, more defensive than she intended.

“Now, what’s going on in that overactive brain of yours?”

“What do you mean?” she countered, trying to keep her tone calm so as not to disturb Prem, who was fast asleep in her arms.

Maan gently lifted Prem from her arms, his movements careful and tender. “Darling,” he said with a teasing smile, “tumhara dimaag aaj kal zyada chal raha hai. Kitne ajeeb khayal aate rehte hain.”

Geet turned her head to look at him as he placed Prem in his crib. She opened her mouth to speak but faltered.

“Maan,” she said softly.

“Hmmm?” He responded without looking away from Prem, running a hand gently over the baby’s cheek.

She didn’t know what she wanted to say; she just wanted to call his name.

“Bolo, Geet,” he prompted, walking towards her after pressing a kiss to Prem’s forehead.

“Kuch nahi,” she murmured, averting her gaze.

“Alright then... order some food. I’ll just freshen up,” he said, picking up a towel and a fresh set of clothes before heading to the washroom.

________________________________________

By the time they finished eating, Prem had woken up, his small whimpers breaking the silence. Geet warmed up his dinner while Maan played with him.

Geet paused in the kitchen doorway, watching as Maan blew raspberries on Prem’s stomach, eliciting loud, gleeful laughter from the baby. A faint smile touched her lips, but it quickly faded. Arnav had never had the chance to share these moments with Prem, and the thought weighed heavily on her heart. Slowly, without her realising, Maan was replacing Arnav in their lives—in Prem’s life and her own. The guilt gnawed at her.

“Geet!” Maan’s voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

“What?” she squeaked, startled.

“What’s happened to your voice?” he teased, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Nothing,” she replied, clearing her throat.

“Sure…” he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

“Maan, what the hell do you want?”

“There she is,” he said with mock relief.

“Kya?”

“My bossy, loud Geet is back,” he said with a grin.

“Bossy? Loud?” she shot back, narrowing her eyes.

“Thank goodness. I thought I’d lost you for a while,” he quipped, ignoring her glare.

“Mr Khurana, you won’t lose me, that’s for sure,” she replied sweetly before adding, “but you may lose your teeth if you don’t shut up.”

“Oooh, I’m so scared,” he mocked, feigning terror.

“Maan!”

“Miss Nautanki, agar tumhara drama khatam ho gaya, toh mere bete ko khilaogi? Usse bhook lagi hai,” he said, handing Prem to her.

Geet stomped over, grabbing the bib and dinner pot. Maan tied the bib around Prem’s neck, accidentally brushing his hand against Geet’s side. She stiffened, a strange sensation coursing through her. Composing herself, she began feeding Prem, who eagerly took the first spoonful.

Maan, however, couldn’t resist making faces, causing Prem to burst into laughter and spit out his food.

“I’m playing, Geet,” he said innocently.

“Play after I’ve fed him, you prick,” she retorted.

“Geet, sharam toh karo. Prem ke saamne hi—”

“Get lost,” she muttered, spooning another bite into Prem’s mouth.

“Honey, I know my way around, so getting lost is really hard for me.”

“That’s it!” she exclaimed, grabbing the nearest object—a hairbrush—and hurling it at him.

Maan dodged and hurried towards the door. “Tch tch, looks like you missed,” he said, laughing as he stepped out.

After settling Prem for the night, Maan re-entered the room, waving a white handkerchief.

“Peace?” he offered with a sheepish grin.

“Fine. I’ll accept it since you’re too arrogant to say sorry,” she muttered, crossing her arms.

“I’ve apologised enough for a lifetime,” he quipped.

“Whatever.”

“Get ready. We’re going out,” he announced.

“Where?”

“Sightseeing. And didn’t you want me to spend the evenings with you?”

She blushed, recalling her outburst from the other night. “Fine. I’ll get ready,” she said, heading to change.

Within an hour, they set off together, with Prem cradled securely in Maan’s arms. The three of them strolled towards the nearby street stalls, which were illuminated by warm, golden hues from the setting sun. The sky was a blend of fiery orange and soft red, casting a magical glow over the bustling streets.

Maan’s free arm rested protectively around Geet’s waist, holding her close as they navigated through the lively crowd of tourists. The cheerful chatter, light background music, and occasional bursts of laughter filled the air, reminding Geet of her college days. Back then, weekends were spent roaming the cinemas, beaches, or parks with friends. Life seemed so different now, she thought with a faint smile.

“Maan, do you remember when we got stranded in a place like this?” Geet asked suddenly, her voice laced with nostalgia.

“Of course,” Maan replied without missing a beat, a smirk tugging at his lips. “It was your fault we were stuck for two hours, wandering around like idiots.”

“Can’t you ever talk without taunting me?” she retorted, playfully smacking his arm.

“Geet, we’re in public,” Maan teased, feigning shock. “What will these tourists think? Hindustani patni apne pati ko maarti hai.”

“Shut up,” she huffed, her cheeks tinting pink. “And stop irritating me.”

They continued walking in silence for a while, the comfort of each other’s presence needing no words.

“Do you want to go to the beach?” Maan asked after a moment.

“Erm…” Geet tilted her head, considering it. “Okay,” she finally agreed, a small smile playing on her lips.

Maan hailed a passing taxi, opening the door for her as they climbed in.

“Taxi mein jaayenge?” Geet asked curiously.

“Hmm. I don’t feel like driving. I want to enjoy the night,” Maan explained as he settled in, cradling Prem gently.

She nodded, leaning back into her seat as the driver took them to the nearest beach.

“Wow…” Geet’s eyes widened in awe as they stepped onto the beach. The sky had transformed into a breathtaking palette of deep purples and soft blues, with the horizon shimmering faintly under the moonlight.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Maan asked, his voice low and soft as he led her closer to the waves.

“Yes,” she whispered, entwining her hand with his. They walked side by side, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore filling the silence between them.

“Maan, I want ice cream,” Geet suddenly exclaimed, pointing to a stall not too far away.

“Hmm… chalo,” he agreed with a chuckle, indulging her childlike excitement.

Geet smiled brightly and ordered two chocolate ice creams. Once they had their cones, they found a quiet spot on the beach and settled down.

Geet slipped off her sandals, letting the cool sand tickle her feet. Maan, meanwhile, struggled to keep Prem from grabbing his ice cream. Geet took the cone from Maan and fed Prem small licks of the treat, ensuring he didn’t have too much.

The waves danced under the moonlight, lapping at the edges of the sand as the last traces of purple in the sky faded into the night. They seemed to be the only people left on the beach, their silhouettes barely visible in the dim light.

Geet lay on her back, gazing at the stars as they gradually filled the sky. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt this relaxed. Her days were consumed by caring for Prem—feeding him, bathing him, soothing him to sleep. Yet, tonight felt different. Peaceful.

Maan smiled down at her as he cradled a dozing Prem. Once the baby was sound asleep, he carefully retrieved a blanket from the baby bag and wrapped it around him to keep him warm.

Geet watched Maan’s gentle actions, her chest tightening with an unfamiliar warmth. No one had ever cared for her or Prem the way Maan did. He had taken on every responsibility without hesitation—providing for them, protecting them, and supporting her. He never demanded anything in return, never voiced his own needs. How long could he live like this?

“Maan,” she called softly, sitting up.

“Hmmm?” he responded, his brows knitting in slight confusion.

“How long will you live like this?”

“Like what?” he asked, his head tilting to the side.

“Like this… like…” She hesitated, searching for the right words. “Like we’re perfect,” she finally said, though she knew it wasn’t quite what she meant.

“Are you saying we’re not?” he asked with a teasing smile.

“It’s not funny,” she snapped, her glare sharp. “I’m being serious here.”

“Alright, I’m listening,” he said, his tone softening.

“Maan, don’t you want a normal life like everyone else?”

“What does normal mean for you, Geet?” he asked, genuinely curious.

“Maan, don’t you want a wife?”

“I’m looking at her right now,” he replied with a smirk.

“Maan… a normal wife,” she clarified, exasperated.

“Geet, it’s okay. I’m fine with you being abnormal,” he quipped.

“You know what? Go to hell!” she huffed, swatting his arm again.

“Geet,” he said after a pause, his voice more serious. “I married you so I could have those things without having to work for it. If I married someone else, there would be expectations—from both sides. And when those expectations aren’t met, there’s disappointment, resentment, and eventually dislike.”

“With you, it’s different. I know you, you know me, and we understand each other. We accept each other with all our faults. I know you toss and turn in bed and can’t sleep properly. You eat messily. You look pale as a ghost in the mornings, and your hair looks like a bird’s nest. You argue over everything you think is wrong.”

“Are you insulting me?” she asked, her tone a mix of indignation and amusement.

“No,” he said with a soft chuckle. “I’m saying I accept you, faults and all. You’re the perfect bhabhi for Yash, Manvi, and Anjali. You look after the mansion, care for Savita and Maasi like a daughter, and you love Prem like no one else could. You’re perfect for me, Geet. For us. If someone else had come into my life, I doubt she could handle our family—or me, for that matter.”

Geet chuckled, “You got that right.”

“See? Now promise me you won’t ask such silly questions again,” he said, holding out his hand.

“Maan, my questions aren’t silly. You are,” she retorted with a grin.

“Alright, it’s getting late. Let’s go,” he said, standing and offering his hand.

She took it, and together they walked back, the night enveloping them in its serene embrace.

Chapter 13

Both Geet and Maan returned home with a sense of unease hanging over them. Maan carefully tucked Prem into his crib, his actions gentle despite the storm brewing within him. After ensuring Prem was settled, he went to change while Geet slipped into her pyjamas and slid into bed.

As Maan glanced at his phone, he noticed several missed calls. Dialling back, he waited for the line to connect, his expression growing more serious.

“Mama, kya baat hai?” he asked, his tone laced with concern.

“Kuch nahi, bete… bas poochna tha, aap log kab wapas aa rahe hain?” Savita’s voice held a nervous tremor that Maan didn’t miss.

“Mama, do teen din aur lagenge. Kyun? Sab theek hai na?”

“Bas… aise hi,” she replied evasively.

Maan’s brow furrowed as he sensed something was amiss. Savita wasn’t one to call without reason, and her tone only confirmed his suspicions.

After the call ended, Maan sat on the edge of the bed, worry etched into his features.

“Maan, what’s wrong?” Geet asked, sitting up and noticing his tense demeanour.

“Mama’s hiding something from me,” he said quietly.

“Did she say anything that seemed odd?”

“It’s not what she said, Geet. It’s her voice—it sounded nervous.”

Geet grew concerned too. “Maan, why don’t I head back home first? You can wrap up your meetings here.”

“No,” he said firmly. “We’ll go together.”

“But your meetings?”

“Adi and Sasha can handle them. Right now, I’m more worried about what Mama is hiding.”

“Why don’t you call Manvi and find out?” Geet suggested.

Maan nodded and immediately dialled Manvi.

“Hello?”

“Manvi, main hoon.”

“Veerji? Aap?”

“Manvi, tum log mujhse kya chhupa rahi ho?”

“Kuch nahi…”

“Manvi!” His voice carried a warning.

After a moment’s hesitation, Manvi sighed, “Yash ne shaadi kar li.”

“WHAT?” Maan’s voice thundered, startling Geet.

“Haan… aur usne kisi ko kuch bataya tak nahi. Mama ko bhi nahi.”

“Who is she?”

Manvi paused before replying hesitantly, “Sameera.”

Maan wasted no time booking the earliest flight home. Sleep was a distant thought for both of them. The revelation that Yash had married Sameera Kapoor—a name that instantly conjured up bad memories for Maan—left them restless. Maan’s anger simmered beneath the surface, but he knew he couldn’t confront Yash recklessly. He needed a strategy, especially with someone as cunning as Sameera involved.

As they boarded the plane and settled into their seats, Maan leaned back and closed his eyes, trying to calm the storm raging inside him.

Geet reached over and gently placed her hand over his. “I’m worried for Yash, Maan,” she said softly.

“I am too,” he admitted. “She’s using him to get back at me. I just know it.”

“Maan, we’ll all need to be cautious. We don’t know what she’s planning.”

He nodded silently, appreciating her support, as he prayed for patience to handle the unfolding situation.

“Manvi, tumne bro ko bata diya ke maine shaadi kar li?” Yash’s voice boomed, startling his sister.

“Mo-o-om!” Manvi whined, turning to Savita for help.

“Yash!” Savita interjected firmly.

“Mama, Manvi ne bro ko bataya hai! Bro mujhe nahi chhodenge,” Yash said, panic lacing his words.

“Aapka hi galti hai, Yash. Aapne shaadi ki aur humein batana zaroori nahi samjha?” Savita countered, her disappointment clear.

“Mama, main Sameera se pyaar karta hoon, aur woh chahti thi ke hum jaldi shaadi kar lein.”

“Yeh zaroor biwi ka gulaam hoga,” Simran muttered under her breath.

“Choti Ma!” Yash protested.

“Teri biwi ko dekh kar lagta hai ke yeh aurat nahi, chudail hai,” Simran continued with a smirk. “Dekha hai? Kitna make-up lagaya hai—poori bhootni lagti hai.”

“Choti Ma, please Sameera ke baare mein aisa mat kahiye!”

“Waise, madam ji hai kahan?” Simran asked, ignoring his plea.

“Woh… woh so rahi hai. Bohot thak gayi hai,” Yash answered nervously.

“Wah! Kya baat hai,” Simran retorted sarcastically. “Hum sabki neend udh gayi hai aur madam ji ko tabhi neend aayi.”

Before Yash could argue further, the screech of tyres outside announced Maan’s arrival. Yash froze, knowing what awaited him.

The servants brought in the luggage as Maan and Geet entered with Prem in her arms. Maan’s expression betrayed no emotion, but those who knew him well could sense the tension radiating off him.

Maan stopped in the centre of the hall, his piercing gaze fixed on Yash. “Explain,” he demanded, his voice sharp and icy.

“I… I love her,” Yash stammered.

“How long? One day? One hour? One minute?” Maan bit out, his patience wearing thin.

“We’ve been dating for a week,” Yash retorted.

“A week? Koi ek hafte mein shaadi karta hai kya?” Maan’s voice rose, echoing through the hall.

“Maan, please,” Geet intervened, sensing the situation spiralling out of control.

“How did you ‘fall in love’ in one week?” Maan continued, his voice dripping with disbelief.

Yash stayed silent, knowing the truth would only infuriate Maan further.

“Did you even date her properly, or did you just take her to bed?” Maan accused, his temper flaring.

“Maan!” Geet stepped in again, quickly handing Prem to Manvi and urging her to leave. “Take him upstairs and put him to sleep,” she whispered.

Once Manvi had left, Geet tried to usher Savita and Simran away as well, but they refused to budge, too anxious about what might happen next.

“Answer me, Yash,” Maan thundered. “What did she do? Offer herself on a plate?”

“Maan, that’s enough!” Yash snapped, finally retaliating. “Sameera is my wife now, and I won’t let you insult her.”

“You want to know who your wife really is? She jumps into bed with any man who flashes cash at her!”

Yash lunged at Maan, his anger boiling over. But Maan was quicker, grabbing Yash by the collar. Geet tried desperately to separate them, her voice drowned out by Savita and Simran’s panicked shouts.

“You leave with yours and take that b*stard with you” He spat out in anger, Geet’s fingers slipped away numbed by his words, Maan’s anger knew no bounds he punched him, then followed by a slap then violently punched him harder causing him to fall to the floor, Savita came so did simran to stop him.

“Leave before I kill you,” Maan hissed, his voice low and menacing. He shoved Yash away, his patience completely eroded.

Yash stumbled but quickly stood up, glancing at Geet. “Bhabhi… please listen to me,” he began, his tone pleading.

Geet turned to him, her face pale. “I can’t even look at you right now, Yash,” she whispered before walking upstairs, leaving him rooted in guilt and regret.

Pari is absolutely right that Geet is falling in love with him. Maan seems to be delighted as well knowing this fact.

Pari made Geet realise that she is in love with Maan. Geet wants Maan to have a normal life but Maan's point is also correct here.

Maan is right how can Yash just fall in love with Sameera in a week. Sameera is just using Yash to settle her scores with Maan.

Sweet moment between Maaneet. Thank God there is some progress in their relation. At least they are sleeping on same bed.

Wow! They kissed and Geet wants to give their relationship a chance. I am excited to see their love progress.