The Dr Kaira Chapter. - Page 14

Oohoooo Aryan sa is just another chameleon like poddars?

Part 16:Nik Bhai and Aaryan Uncle

Kairav throws his expensive watch onto the nightstand, thegesture heavy with exhaustion and disgust. Muskan stops pacing and turns tohim, her eyes clouded with worry.

Muskan : "Kairav, I hate this so much. I hate the wayKaveri ji looked at Kaira, inspecting her like a piece of jewellery. AndAaryan... that boy is pure poison."

Kairav (Sighing, rubbing his temples): "I know, Muskan.Did you see his face when I asked for the balance sheets? Pure panic. Hedoesn't see a life partner; he sees a 'Goenka Brand Ambassador.' His status kajaap was sickening."

Muskan: "It was the way he held her, Kairav.Possessive. I saw Kaira pull away, just for a second. She felt it, I know shedid. But she shut down immediately. She's so blinded by his validation of herambition. She thinks he's fighting for her, but he’s just fighting for her surname."

Kairav walks over to her, pulling her close and resting hischin on her head.

Kairav: "We got the shagun done. Now the real workbegins. We need to expose his toxicity before the engagement. for her to realize his true self?"

Muskan: "I don't know, Kairav. She’s stubborn. Shealways believes she’s the smartest person in the room. Woh khud hi realizekaregi , but we need an external catalyst. Someone she trusts implicitly, whoseopinion she values more than ours right now."

Kairav: "Who? Ruhi? She can. Abhir is toodetached."

Muskan (Pulling away, a decisive look in her eyes): "Nahi.It has to be someone who can make her laugh, someone who has always been her safespace. Someone who doesn't judge her ambition, but also understands her heartbetter than Aaryan ever could."

Muskan walks quickly toward the phone on the cornertable—not the landline Kaveri called on, but an old, simple feature phone shekeeps hidden in a box.

Kairav watches, confused, as Muskan dials a number sheclearly knows by heart. He’s about to ask who she’s calling when she lifts thephone to her ear, and her eyes instantly well up with tears.

A few moments pass as she waits, then she speaks, hersophisticated, corporate voice completely cracking with raw, maternal fear.

Muskan (Struggling to keep her voice down, switchingcompletely to Hindi): "Beta... woh ladka theek nahi hai . I saw it today.Kairav and I... we are so scared for her."

She pauses, wiping a tear away with the back of her hand.

Muskan (Pleading): "Tujhe toh pata hai na ? You’vealways been her best friend, her safety net. Please, kuch toh kar beta. Don’tlet her ruin her life for this fake status and this toxic man. We can't talk toher directly—she'll push us away."

Kairav steps closer, his eyes wide with recognition andsudden understanding. He realizes exactly who is on the other end—the oneperson Kaira truly trusts.

Muskan (Voice choked, the last plea of a desperate mother):"I know you're busy, I know it’s a lot to ask. But Kaira ko bacha le,please. Only you can show her the truth without her raising her legal shield. Humtujhe har tarah se support karenge . Just... come home."

Muskan listens for a long moment, nodding slightly, aglimmer of relief finally entering her eyes. She hangs up, lowering the phoneslowly.

Kairav (Softly,): "Woh aa raha hai ?"

Muskan (Nodding): "He’s booked the first flight. Hesaid, 'Kaira ko koi haath nahi laga sakta' . He’ll be here tomorrowmorning."

Kaira was lost in the unsettling silence, the doubt aboutAaryan lingering like a cold shadow. Usne mere liye fight toh kiya, ya Goenkatag ke liye? The question echoed relentlessly in her mind.

Just as the silence threatened to consume her, her phonechimed with a flurry of notifications—a rapid succession of messages from Aaryan.

She hesitantly picked it up. His messages were a perfect,calculated blend of affection and self-pity, designed to soothe her doubts andreinforce his image as the wronged lover.

Aaryan (09:15 PM): My Jaan, are you okay? I know those oldpeople were very harsh on you. I feel so bad.

Aaryan (09:16 PM): They don't understand the level ofcommitment we have. They only understand profit and loss. That’s why I needyou, Kaira. You are my emotional anchor.

Aaryan (09:17 PM): Kairav Uncle's financial questions wereridiculous! They tried to humiliate me! But I tolerated everything just foryou, my love.

Aaryan (09:18 PM): Promise me you aren't letting theirpolitics bother you. I need my queen to be happy. Don't let anything comebetween us, my world.

Aaryan (09:20 PM): Good night, Jaan. Send me one of yourgorgeous selfies before sleeping. I need to see your smile to sleep peacefully.Sweet dreams of our wedding!

Kaira read the thread, her brow smoothing out with everyword. The sharp edges of the afternoon—the possessive grip, the statusrant—began to dull.

He fought for me, she thought, rereading the message abouthis tolerance. He really does love me. He's just stressed about his career, andI'm being unfair by judging his excitement.

A wave of warmth washed over her, replacing the doubt. Shefelt the powerful pull of being needed by the strong, ambitious man she chose.She felt guilty for questioning him.

She quickly typed a reply: "I'm fine, Aaryan. Don'tworry about them. Focus on the firm. Good night."

She hesitated, then added a quick, glamorous selfie beforetossing the phone aside. She had successfully rationalized away her fear. Thegolden chains of affection felt comforting, not constricting.

She stood up, deciding to put the entire messy day behindher. She walked over to her closet, already thinking about which designer shewould call tomorrow to begin planning their elaborate engagement party.

The Goenka-Poddar alliance had been approved. She wasengaged. Everything was fine.

In Udaipur, the world was silent. In the master suite of theGoenka Villa, Kaira was engaged in a violent, silent battle with her1000-thread-count Egyptian cotton duvet. She was exhausted, but hersubconscious was screaming louder than Aaryan’s text messages.

She rolled to the left. Too hot. She rolled to the right. Tooguilty. She kicked the blanket off. Too cold.

Kaira (Groaning into her pillow, voice muffled): "Ugh.Why does my brain have insomnia ka subscription? Go to sleep, Kaira. You arehappy. You are engaged. You are... awake."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

At the gleaming Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj InternationalAirport (T2), Nikhil Raizada was not sleeping. He was blurring the line between"Fashion Week Runway" and "Olympic Sprint."

Dressed in a Gen-Z masterpiece—oversized cargo pants, abillowing abstract-print silk shirt left unbuttoned over a white tank, and sneakers—hewas sprinting through the departure hall like a man whose life depended on it.His wavy hair was flying, his expensive sunglasses were perched uselessly onhis head, and he was dragging a sleek, sticker-covered Rimowa carry-on behindhim.

Nikhil (Panting, checking his watch, speaking to himself):"Gate 45? Why is Gate 45 always in a different pin code?! Yaar, MuskiAunty, your emotional blackmail better cover my cardio bill!"

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira sat up in bed, looking like a disheveled, beautifulghost. She grabbed her water glass. Empty.

Kaira (Flopping back down, staring at the ceiling):"Great. Even the water has abandoned me. Is this a sign? Is the universetelling me I’m thirsty for... clarity? Or just hydration? God, I hate 4 AMlogic."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

Nikhil drifted around a corner, narrowly avoiding acollision with a duty-free display of perfumes. He didn't stop; he just spungracefully, flashing a charming, breathless grin at the startled salesgirl.

Nikhil (Shouting back as he ran): "Sorry”

He spotted the gate. The airline staff were already reachingfor the "Gate Closed" rope.

Nikhil (Waving his boarding pass like a flag): "Ruko!Wait! Hold the door!"

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira finally punched her pillow into a submission hold,burying her face in it.

Kaira (Mumbling): "I just need... peace. Someonejust... turn off the noise in my head."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

Nikhil skidded to a halt at the Business Class counter,chest heaving, hair perfectly messy, looking like a GQ cover model who justsurvived a hurricane. The ground staff looked unimpressed.

Ground Staff: "Sir, boarding is closing. You are verylate."

Nikhil leaned on the counter, flashing his signaturelopsided, dimpled smirk, utilizing every ounce of his Raizada charm.

Nikhil (Breathless): "Madam, I am not late. I am dramaticallyon time. It’s an aesthetic choice. Besides, if I don't get on this flight, avery scary lady in Udaipur—my Mami—will likely hunt me down. You don't wantthat on your conscience, do you?"

The staff member tried to fight it, but the smirk wasundefeated. She sighed and beeped his pass.

Ground Staff: "Go. Quickly."

Nikhil grabbed his bag and sprinted down the aerobridge, thehollow thud of his sneakers echoing. He paused just at the aircraft door,looking back at the empty bridge, catching his breath.

Nikhil (Whispering to the Udaipur air): "I'm coming,Kai. Your shanti is on the way. And also your chaos. Mostly your chaos."

He stepped onto the plane, bringing his flamboyant energyinto the quiet cabin.

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira let out a long, deep sigh, finally finding a cold spoton the pillow. Her eyes fluttered shut, unaware that her "externalforce" was currently buckling his seatbelt at 30,000 feet, ready tocrash-land into her perfectly planned life.

Kaira (Sleepily): "Everything... will be... fine."

Nikhil (In the plane, putting on headphones): "It’sshowtime."

Kairav and Muskan were already dressed, moving with an airof comical stealth.

Kairav (Checking his watch, whispering fiercely):"Seven AM. Flight lands in 30 mins. We need to be out. If Kaira wakes upand sees us sneaking, she’ll launch a full-scale legal inquiry."

Muskan (Hissing back as they tiptoed): "Then stopwalking like a bull in a ceramic shop, Kairav! Be silent!"

They reached the grand staircase, and Kairav nearly lost hisfooting on the polished marble.

Kairav:” Yeh Design hi galat hai!Muski yeh kya interiordesign kiya tune”

Just as they reached the landing, a small, sleepy figureemerged: Daksh, seven years old, in dinosaur pajamas.

Daksh (Muttering, slightly confused): "Nani and Nana?Why are you dressed for office but walking like burglars?"

Kairav and Muskan froze.

Kairav (Voice strained, trying to sound casual):"Daksh! Good morning, son! We were just... going for an extremely early...uh... jog!"

Daksh (Skeptical): "A jog? But you’re wearing silk. Andnanu, your pulse is elevated. Are you experiencing tachycardia?"

Kairav (Whispering to Muskan): "What is 'tachycardia'?Is that a law firm in Delhi? I need a lawyer!"

Muskan (Stepping forward, seamlessly adopting the high-levellanguage): "It’s a secret, Daksh. We are undertaking a high-level BiomarkerAcquisition Protocol."

Daksh (Eyes widening, instantly attentive): "BiomarkerAcquisition Protocol? Is the sample viable? Does it require cryogenicpreservation?"

Muskan (Solemnly): "It's an Exotic Pathogen flown infrom London. It’s highly sensitive and needs immediate transfer to the GoenkaCenter before it causes acute emotional toxicity in the localenvironment."

Kairav (Completely lost, whispering desperately to Muskan):"Pathogen? Muskan! Are we picking up a virus? Why didn't you tell me! Idon't have my sanitiser!"

Muskan (Ignoring Kairav, focused on Daksh): "Yes. It’sa very specialized Green Flag Pathogen that requires a precise TemperatureGradient Stabilization. We have to handle it because it requires a highly rarequality: Emotional Intelligence."

Daksh (Proudly): "I see! So Nanu is the LogisticsManager and you are the Chief Stabilization Officer?"

Kairav (Fumbling): "I’m the... Logi—? Muskan, I justwant to pick up Nikhil! What are you talking about?"

Muskan (Shooting Kairav a death glare that shut him upinstantly): "Yes, Daksh. We are the Stabilization Team. This is strictlyclassified. You cannot tell anyone about the Exotic Pathogen or our BiomarkerProtocol! Can you keep a secret?"

Daksh: "Mission accepted, Nani! I will protect thesecret!"

Muskan pulled Kairav towards the door.

Kairav (As they reached the garage, bewildered):"Muskan, what was that? What is a 'Green Flag Pathogen'? And what if heasks me about the Biomarker Gradient again? I only know legal gradients!"

Muskan (Starting the car, her relief evident): "Itmeans he bought the lie, Kairav. Now, let’s go fetch the only person who canneutralize Aaryan's emotional toxicity—our 'Pathogen Sample,' Nikhil."

Muskan’s white luxury SUV, driven by Kairav, was parkeddiscreetly at the edge of the tarmac, near a small executive hangar, thanks toa few discreet calls made by the Goenka legal team.

Kairav (Looking anxiously at his watch): "Muskan, thisis illegal. Highly illegal. We are risking a violation of Aviation SecurityProtocol for a designer with questionable fashion choices."

Muskan (Calmly checking her reflection, smoothing hersaree): "It’s not illegal, Kairav, it's 'special dispensation for medicalretrieval.' And his fashion choices are Gen Z chic, which is exactly hamariaesthetic Kaira needs to remind her that life isn't just about beige lawbooks."

The roar of a jet engine grew louder. A sleek Air India A320 taxied onto the apron.

Kairav (Pointing): "There! That’s the flight fromMumbai. Our 'Exotic Pathogen' is about to land."

Muskan smiled, a genuine, relieved smile that reached hereyes—the first since the Poddars left.

A few minutes later, the plane stopped. The stairs wereattached, and soon, figures began descending, mostly corporate-looking men insuits. Then, the last person appeared.

Nikhil Raizada.

He looked exactly as he had at the Mumbaiairport—flamboyant, chaotic, but undeniably put-together in his oversized silkshirt and cargos. He was wearing noise-canceling headphones around his neck andsquinting slightly at the early morning sun, looking less like a passenger andmore like an indie rock star on tour.

Nikhil reached the bottom of the stairs, inhaling theUdaipur air, when he spotted the white SUV and the two impeccably dressedfigures waiting by it. He stopped dead. His jaw dropped, and he ripped theheadphones off his neck.

Nikhil (Muttering to himself): "Wait. Is that MuskanAunty? Did she take a second flight just to meet me? This is next-levelemotional commitment."

He broke into a run, his Rimowa bag clattering behind him.

Nikhil (Breathless, half-laughing): "Aunty! Uncle! Ohmy God! This is not a dream I had after eating that terrible Business Classpaneer tikka! You actually came to the tarmac! Is Kaira okay?"

Muskan, forgetting all corporate decorum, rushed forward andenveloped him in a tight hug. She buried her face in his shoulder, hersophisticated exterior dissolving instantly.

Muskan (Muffled, voice thick with emotion): "My beta!You came! You came so fast, I was so worried..."

Nikhil hugged her back fiercely, the maternal grief in hervoice instantly sobering him up.

Nikhil (Softly): "Of course, I came. Kaira is myperson. I wouldn't be anywhere else. Now stop the emotional blackmail, Aunty,you’re wrinkling my silk shirt."

Nikhil pulled back, beaming. He quickly moved toward Kairav,dropping his bag and bending to touch Muskan's feet in a traditional aashirvad(blessing) gesture.

Nikhil (Bending down): "Aunty, your aashirvad(blessing) is what I need before facing the Poddars. I need all the stabilizationprotocol I can get."

Muskan snatched her foot back with hilarious speed, leaningaway dramatically.

Muskan (Horrified): "Nahi! Stop it! Don’t do that,Nikhil! What are you doing? I’m Muskan Goenka, I'm not some ancient matriarchfrom the 80s! I'm only 51, darling! And you’ll ruin my saree pleats!"

Nikhil stood up, grinning widely, hands spread in mockinnocence.

Nikhil: "Just respecting the Senior StabilizationOfficer, Aunty. Point noted. No foot-touching before 60."

Kairav, who had been watching the entire exchange, let out agenuine, hearty laugh—a sound rarely heard in the Goenka mansion lately. Heclapped Nikhil warmly on the shoulder, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten.

Kairav (Smiling widely): "Nikhil! My boy! I’m so gladyou’re here. Muskan didn't tell me who she called, but I knew Kaira’s hypothalamicstress required your unique brand of chaos management."

Nikhil (Wiping his brow): "Chaos management is mydesign philosophy, Uncle. Just tell me the plan. Do we need to crash aboardroom or just re-design Aaryan’s wardrobe? Because both are equally urgent,I suspect."

Kairav picked up his Rimowa bag, his determination renewed.

Muskan: "We need coffee and a strategy session. Welcomehome, Nikhil. We have a girl to save."

At the airport curb, just as Kairav was about to loadNikhil’s Rimowa suitcase into the SUV, Nikhil placed a hand on the trunk,stopping him.

Nikhil (Checking his phone, a sudden instinct kicking in):"Wait. Uncle, don't put the bag in yet. I’m not coming to the Villa. Notyet."

Muskan (Confused): "What? Nikhil, we need to debrief!Where are you going? You just landed!"

Nikhil (Adjusting his sunglasses, a knowing smirk playing onhis lips): "Strategy later, Aunty. Priority first. It’s 8 AM. If I knowKaira—and I do know Kaira—when she’s stressed, she doesn’t go home. She goes tothe water."

Before Kairav could protest about security or logistics,Nikhil flagged down a passing Auto Rickshaw.

Nikhil (To the Auto Driver, effortlessly switching to streetsmarts): "Bhaiya, Gangaur Ghat loge? Meter se. And fast, I have a heroineto save."

He threw his backpack into the auto and hopped in, lookingridiculously out of place yet perfectly at home in his expensive silk shirt andchunky sneakers sitting on the torn rexine seat.

Nikhil (Saluting Kairav and Muskan): "Take the luggagehome. I’ll bring the 'Patient' back myself!"

The auto sputtered away, leaving Kairav and Muskan staringafter him.

Kairav (Shaking his head, smiling): "He’s crazy. Buthe’s right. She always goes to the Ghat."

Gangaur Ghat was bathed in the soft, golden haze of themorning sun. The pigeons fluttered near the water's edge, and the sounds oftemple bells rang in the distance.

Kaira Goenka stood on the lower steps, looking out at LakePichola. She looked breathtakingly simple, a stark contrast to the heavy silversaree of the previous day. She wore a white aesthetic Chikankari kurta set—long,flowy, and delicate—with a matching white chiffon dupatta. Her hair was loose,dancing slightly in the cool breeze.

She wrapped her arms around herself, the doubt about Aaryanstill a quiet hum in her chest. She needed peace. She needed to feel likeherself, not "Dr. Goenka, the Status Symbol."

Suddenly, a gust of wind—stronger than the rest—swept acrossthe ghat.

Whoosh.

Kaira’s lightweight chiffon dupatta slipped from hershoulder. It danced away, floating down the steep stone steps toward the water.

Kaira (Gasping): "Arre!"

She turned and ran after it, her instincts taking over. Sheskipped one step, then two, her eyes fixed on the white fabric fluttering away.

But the Ghat steps were uneven.

Her foot caught on a jagged stone. She lost her balance. Theworld tilted. A small scream escaped her lips as she pitched forward, bracingfor the hard impact of the stone steps.

But she never hit the ground.

Strong, familiar arms wrapped around her waist withpracticed precision. Her fall was arrested instantly, pulled against a chestthat smelled of sandalwood, sea salt, and expensive cologne.

It was a collision of worlds.

Kaira’s delicate, traditional white Chikankari crushedagainst Nikhil’s chaotic, vibrant abstract-print silk shirt. Her soft elegancemet his modern, rugged cargos.

Time seemed to freeze.

Just as he caught her, the wind shook the large Bougainvilleaand Gulmohar trees overhanging the steps. A shower of vibrant orange and pinkpetals rained down on them, settling in Kaira’s hair and on Nikhil’s shoulders.

It was iconic. It was cinematic. It was pure magic.

Kaira, heart pounding, slowly opened her eyes. She wasn'tlooking at the ground. She was looking up into a pair of warm, hazel eyes thatwere looking down at her with a mix of amusement and intense relief.

Nikhil held her firmly, his messy hair falling over hisforehead, the sunlight catching the gold rim of his sunglasses that had sliddown his nose.

Kaira stared. She blinked, unable to process thehallucination.

Kaira (Breathless, whispering): "Nikhil...?"

Nikhil grinned, that signature lopsided, dimpled smile thatshe had missed more than she realized.

He didn't let go. He just held her there, amidst the fallingflowers and the morning light, the perfect picture of the chaos she desperatelyneeded.

For five whole seconds, Nikhil forgot how to breathe.

Holding Kaira in his arms, surrounded by fallingBougainvillea petals, his brain short-circuited. He wasn't the cool, flamboyantfashion designer Nikhil Raizada anymore; he was just the boy who had beensecretly in love with her since the 6th grade.

His eyes traced her face—the shock in her wide eyes, thewind-blown hair sticking to her cheek. He stared at her like she was the onlypiece of art in a crowded gallery.

Nikhil (Internal Monologue): "Mar gaye. I am dead. Thisis it. Cause of death:Kaira."

He was leaning in unconsciously, completely entranced, asoft, goofy smile taking over his face.

Kaira, however, recovered much faster. She blinked, realizedwho was holding her, and her shock exploded into pure, high-decibel delight.

Kaira (Screaming at the top of her lungs): "NIKHIIIIIIIIL!"

The scream was so loud and sudden that Nikhil flinchedphysically, the romantic bubble popping instantly. He stumbled back, nearlytripping over his own chunky sneakers.

Nikhil (Covering his ears, wincing): "Arre! Bas! My eardrums are designer, Kai! They are not insured for this sonic blast!"

Kaira (Ignoring him, jumping on him for a bear hug):"Oh my God! Tu sach mein yahaan hai?! (You are actually here?!) I can’tbelieve it! Tu toh miracle hai! (You are a miracle!)"

She squeezed him tight, burying her face in his shoulder.Nikhil stood frozen for a split second before melting, wrapping his arms around her and lifting her slightly off the ground, spinning her once.

Nikhil (Laughing): "Haan, haan, main hoon. Put me down before you wrinkle my 'Emotional Support Shirt', woman!"

Kaira pulled back, beaming, her face flushed with happiness.

Kaira: "But how? Why? Tu toh London mein fashion week kar raha tha na? "

Nikhil (Adjusting his collar, putting his sunglasses backon): "Fashion never sleeps, darling, but it does travel. I have a secret heritage textile project here in Udaipur. Very hush-hush. Aur socha..since I'min the neighborhood, why not annoy my favorite person?"

Kaira’s eyes lit up even more. She grabbed his hands,bouncing on her toes.

Kaira: "You came at the perfect time! Nikhil, listen! I’m getting married! I’m engaged to Aaryan! It’s all happening!"

Nikhil’s smile froze. He felt a sharp tug in his chest, but he forced his face to remain neutral.

Kaira (Gushing, completely blinded): "He is amazing,Nick! You have to meet him. He is so supportive, so caring. He fights for me,he loves me... he is just my Prince Charming! Meri life set hai!"

Nikhil looked at Kaira’s glowing face, then recalled thebackground check Muskan Mami had hinted at—the stiffness, the rules, the Poddargloom.

He raised an eyebrow, shoving his hands into his cargopockets, his signature savage smirk returning.

Nikhil (Dryly): "Aaryan Poddar? Really? That guy?"

Kaira (Defensive but smiling): "Yes! What do you mean'that guy'? He is handsome and successful!"

Nikhil (leaning in, whispering conspiratorially): "Kai,sweetheart... I saw his Instagram. That man looks like he irons his underwear."

Kaira’s jaw dropped, and a bubble of laughter threatened toescape.

Nikhil (Continuing, relentless): "Seriously! Uska chehra dekh ke lagta hai ki woh haste waqt bhi 'Terms and Conditions' padhta hai. Does he have a personality, or is he just a human version of a PowerPoint presentation?"

Kaira (Bursting into loud laughter, slapping his arm):"Shut up, Nikhil! He is disciplined, okay? Not boring!"

Nikhil (Winking): "Disciplined? Darling, he looks likehis favorite color is 'Tax Return'. But fine, if you say he's Prince Charming,I'll believe you... for now."

Kaira laughed harder than she had in days, the heavy weightof the "Poddar Rules" lifting simply because Nikhil was there to makefun of them.

Kaira and Nikhil walked away from Gangaur Ghat, Kaira stillbuzzing with energy and Nikhil walking with the confident, hip-swaying gait ofa man who knows he looks good in cargos.

Kaira: "Okay, let's take the car. Uncle and Aunty mustbe worried sick. We should head straight home."

Nikhil (Stopping dead near a crowded, bustling street vendor selling hot snacks): "Stop! Stop right there, Kaira."

Kaira turned, seeing the busy, slightly chaotic stall piled high with golden-fried delights—crisp kachoris, sticky orange jalebis, and steaming samosas.

Kaira (Wrinkling her nose slightly): "Nikhil, what are you doing? That place is definitely not up to 'Goenka hygiene standards.' We can get fresh jalebis at home."

Nikhil ignored her entirely. He walked up to the stall with the focus of a curator inspecting a rare artifact.

Nikhil (To the vendor, counting on his fingers):"Bhaiya, do kilo jalebi pack kar do. Aur paanch samosa, achhe se fry karna, mirchi daalke. Aur do pyaz kachori alag se. No plastic, paper mein wra pkaro. Fast."

He pulled a thick wad of cash from his wallet—the samewallet that probably housed his European bank cards—and paid without checkingthe change.

Kaira (Staring, hands on her hips): "Nikhil! What is this madness? You flew from London, Business Class, and now you’re gettingstreet food? We need to talk about your aesthetic integrity!"

Nikhil (Turning, juggling the large paper packets expertly,his charm overpowering her protest): "Kaira, this is my grounding ritual.You can't fight global corporate giants on an empty stomach, or on blandhome-cooked food. This—" he gestured to the greasy packet—"is the realUdaipur flavor. Besides, Aaryan Uncle ke taste ki baat mat karo . He probablyeats organic celery sticks for breakfast."

Kaira couldn't help but shake her head, a huge smile back onher face. This was the Nikhil she grew up with—classy enough for Paris, streetsmart enough for any galli (alley). She grabbed a corner of the hot kachoripacket.

Kaira: "Fine! But if I get sick, you are footing themedical bills."

Nikhil: "Done. Now come on. We have a family to feed and a fiancé to mock."

They arrived at the grand Goenka Villa in a hired taxi, Nikhil carrying the fragrant, slightly greasy bags of snacks. Kaira was laughing uncontrollably, leaning against Nikhil as he recounted a ridiculous story about his flight.

They walked into the living area, bathed in the soft morninglight. Kairav and Muskan were waiting there, having just finished their tensediscussion and trying to look nonchalant.

The parents froze.

They didn't see the famous fashion designer or the ambitiousdoctor. They saw their daughter:

1. Her hair slightly messy from the wind and the fall.
2. Her elegant Chikankari kurta slightly crumpled.
3. And the look of pure, uninhibited happiness on her face, leaning on her childhood friend, her eyes sparkling with laughter.

Kairav saw his daughter, for the first time since Aaryanentered her life, look completely free. The rigid, professional facade wasgone. His eyes instantly welled up with emotion—joy, relief, and deep paternalgratitude for the young man standing beside her.

Muskan saw the relief too. She watched Kaira double overlaughing at something Nikhil whispered about the samosas. That genuine,carefree laughter was the best news they’d received all week.

Simultaneously, overwhelmed by the sight of their daughterradiating such joy after days of worry—and needing to protect this precious,fragile moment from the evil eye (Aaryan's influence)—both Kairav and Muskanlifted a hand to their mouths.

Kairav & Muskan (Synchronized and silent): "Thu!Thu! Thu!"

The spontaneous, coordinated gesture of warding off nazar(evil eye) was so perfectly timed that it was hilarious.

Kaira and Nikhil stopped talking, noticing the suddensilence and their parents' rigid, synchronized posture.

Kaira (Confused): "Mom? Dad? Kya hua? Are you bothpracticing some new yoga breathing technique?"

Nikhil grinned, understanding the silent fear and loveperfectly.

Kairav just beamed, stepping forward to hug Nikhil, hisrelief palpable.

Kairav: "Aao, beta! Come! Aao! (Come!)"

The room was heavy with the aftermath of yesterday’stension. Kajal (Kaveri’s daughter) was looking worried.

Kajal (To Sanjay and Krish): "Maa (Kaveri) is stillupset. She feels the Goenkas humiliated Aaryan with those financial questions.This entire alliance is resting on Kaira’s ambition, nothing else."

Sanjay: "They are covering their assets, Kajal. KairavGoenka is a sharp lawyer. But yes, the air is thick. We need to ensureeverything for the engagement is perfect."

Tanya was scrolling through her phone, half-listening,clearly bored by the endless corporate talk. Suddenly, her face lit up as shesaw the caller ID.

Tanya (Answering instantly, her voice instantly dropping allformality): "Nik bhai! Hey! How are you doing? Long time!"

Krish, Kajal, and Sanjay paused, looking at Tanya withconfusion. They were used to her enthusiasm, but this was a whole new level ofjoy.

Tanya (Squealing loudly, holding the phone away slightly):"Wait, wait, say that again? Udaipur?! Seriously? Arre waah! Yeh toh bestsurprise hai! (Wow! This is the best surprise!)"

She started bouncing slightly in her seat, completelyunaware of the three sets of wide eyes staring at her.

Tanya (Gushing): "Perfect timing! No, nahi nahi (no,no), I’m free! Of course, I’m free! You call me when you get settled, okay? Wehave so much to catch up on! Bye, Nik bhai! Love you!"

Tanya ended the call, beaming at her reflection, thenrealized she was being intensely scrutinized.

Krish (Raising an eyebrow, amused): "Tanya? Who wasthat? I haven't seen you this excited since you found out Zara was having amid-season sale."

Kajal (Slightly sternly): "That was a very loud phonecall, beta. Who is 'Nik bhai' who causes this much ruckus?"

Tanya sighed happily, pushing her hair back.

Tanya: "Oh, that was Nikhil Raizada. My cousin. Well,distant cousin. But he's my Nik bhai, and he's the best! He's a huge fashiondesigner in London now, you know. He's here in Udaipur for a designproject."

Sanjay nodded thoughtfully, recognizing the surname from thefamily tree.

Sanjay: "Raizada... Yes, I remember. Tanya's mother'sside. Very successful, I heard."

Krish (A tiny bit of suspicion entering his tone): "Afashion designer in Udaipur? That’s unusual. Does he know anyone here? Anyoneimportant?"

Tanya shrugged innocently, still riding the wave ofexcitement.

Tanya: "I don't know, maybe. He knows everyone! He’s socool and funny, Maa . He's the only one who can make me laugh till my stomach hurts. Wait... he grew up with Kaira, right? They were childhood best friends in the States!"

The casual revelation hit the room like a small explosion.

Krish, Kajal, and Sanjay exchanged significant glances. The same thought ran through all their minds: Nikhil Raizada, the estranged family connection, the green-flag designer, and Kaira Goenka’s childhood best friend,had just landed in Udaipur right before the Poddar engagement.

Kajal (Frowning, the Poddar anxiety instantly returning):"Nikhil... Kaira's childhood friend. Ab yeh kya naya siyappa hai?"

Tanya, oblivious to the high stakes of this 'simple'reunion, simply picked up her phone to text Nikhil.

Tanya (Muttering): "We need to go shopping, Nik bhai. Mywardrobe needs urgent intervention."

Part 16 is out!

The Hero is here!

Rishta legacy fl entry for kaira and nikhil.

Nikhil making fun of Aryan >>>> so he's tanya's cousin..maza ayega

Wow wow wow finally charismatic hero is here

Waiting to c all the drama

Will nik give some truths to tani also ..make her fight for herself

Originally posted by: A_Star39

Part 16:Nik Bhai and Aaryan Uncle

Kairav throws his expensive watch onto the nightstand, thegesture heavy with exhaustion and disgust. Muskan stops pacing and turns tohim, her eyes clouded with worry.

Muskan : "Kairav, I hate this so much. I hate the wayKaveri ji looked at Kaira, inspecting her like a piece of jewellery. AndAaryan... that boy is pure poison."

Kairav (Sighing, rubbing his temples): "I know, Muskan.Did you see his face when I asked for the balance sheets? Pure panic. Hedoesn't see a life partner; he sees a 'Goenka Brand Ambassador.' His status kajaap was sickening."

Muskan: "It was the way he held her, Kairav.Possessive. I saw Kaira pull away, just for a second. She felt it, I know shedid. But she shut down immediately. She's so blinded by his validation of herambition. She thinks he's fighting for her, but he’s just fighting for her surname."

Kairav walks over to her, pulling her close and resting hischin on her head.

Kairav: "We got the shagun done. Now the real workbegins. We need to expose his toxicity before the engagement. for her to realize his true self?"

Muskan: "I don't know, Kairav. She’s stubborn. Shealways believes she’s the smartest person in the room. Woh khud hi realizekaregi , but we need an external catalyst. Someone she trusts implicitly, whoseopinion she values more than ours right now."

Kairav: "Who? Ruhi? She can. Abhir is toodetached."

Muskan (Pulling away, a decisive look in her eyes): "Nahi.It has to be someone who can make her laugh, someone who has always been her safespace. Someone who doesn't judge her ambition, but also understands her heartbetter than Aaryan ever could."

Muskan walks quickly toward the phone on the cornertable—not the landline Kaveri called on, but an old, simple feature phone shekeeps hidden in a box.

Kairav watches, confused, as Muskan dials a number sheclearly knows by heart. He’s about to ask who she’s calling when she lifts thephone to her ear, and her eyes instantly well up with tears.

A few moments pass as she waits, then she speaks, hersophisticated, corporate voice completely cracking with raw, maternal fear.

Muskan (Struggling to keep her voice down, switchingcompletely to Hindi): "Beta... woh ladka theek nahi hai . I saw it today.Kairav and I... we are so scared for her."

She pauses, wiping a tear away with the back of her hand.

Muskan (Pleading): "Tujhe toh pata hai na ? You’vealways been her best friend, her safety net. Please, kuch toh kar beta. Don’tlet her ruin her life for this fake status and this toxic man. We can't talk toher directly—she'll push us away."

Kairav steps closer, his eyes wide with recognition andsudden understanding. He realizes exactly who is on the other end—the oneperson Kaira truly trusts.

Muskan (Voice choked, the last plea of a desperate mother):"I know you're busy, I know it’s a lot to ask. But Kaira ko bacha le,please. Only you can show her the truth without her raising her legal shield. Humtujhe har tarah se support karenge . Just... come home."

Muskan listens for a long moment, nodding slightly, aglimmer of relief finally entering her eyes. She hangs up, lowering the phoneslowly.

Kairav (Softly,): "Woh aa raha hai ?"

Muskan (Nodding): "He’s booked the first flight. Hesaid, 'Kaira ko koi haath nahi laga sakta' . He’ll be here tomorrowmorning."

Kaira was lost in the unsettling silence, the doubt aboutAaryan lingering like a cold shadow. Usne mere liye fight toh kiya, ya Goenkatag ke liye? The question echoed relentlessly in her mind.

Just as the silence threatened to consume her, her phonechimed with a flurry of notifications—a rapid succession of messages from Aaryan.

She hesitantly picked it up. His messages were a perfect,calculated blend of affection and self-pity, designed to soothe her doubts andreinforce his image as the wronged lover.

Aaryan (09:15 PM): My Jaan, are you okay? I know those oldpeople were very harsh on you. I feel so bad.

Aaryan (09:16 PM): They don't understand the level ofcommitment we have. They only understand profit and loss. That’s why I needyou, Kaira. You are my emotional anchor.

Aaryan (09:17 PM): Kairav Uncle's financial questions wereridiculous! They tried to humiliate me! But I tolerated everything just foryou, my love.

Aaryan (09:18 PM): Promise me you aren't letting theirpolitics bother you. I need my queen to be happy. Don't let anything comebetween us, my world.

Aaryan (09:20 PM): Good night, Jaan. Send me one of yourgorgeous selfies before sleeping. I need to see your smile to sleep peacefully.Sweet dreams of our wedding!

Kaira read the thread, her brow smoothing out with everyword. The sharp edges of the afternoon—the possessive grip, the statusrant—began to dull.

He fought for me, she thought, rereading the message abouthis tolerance. He really does love me. He's just stressed about his career, andI'm being unfair by judging his excitement.

A wave of warmth washed over her, replacing the doubt. Shefelt the powerful pull of being needed by the strong, ambitious man she chose.She felt guilty for questioning him.

She quickly typed a reply: "I'm fine, Aaryan. Don'tworry about them. Focus on the firm. Good night."

She hesitated, then added a quick, glamorous selfie beforetossing the phone aside. She had successfully rationalized away her fear. Thegolden chains of affection felt comforting, not constricting.

She stood up, deciding to put the entire messy day behindher. She walked over to her closet, already thinking about which designer shewould call tomorrow to begin planning their elaborate engagement party.

The Goenka-Poddar alliance had been approved. She wasengaged. Everything was fine.

In Udaipur, the world was silent. In the master suite of theGoenka Villa, Kaira was engaged in a violent, silent battle with her1000-thread-count Egyptian cotton duvet. She was exhausted, but hersubconscious was screaming louder than Aaryan’s text messages.

She rolled to the left. Too hot. She rolled to the right. Tooguilty. She kicked the blanket off. Too cold.

Kaira (Groaning into her pillow, voice muffled): "Ugh.Why does my brain have insomnia ka subscription? Go to sleep, Kaira. You arehappy. You are engaged. You are... awake."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

At the gleaming Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj InternationalAirport (T2), Nikhil Raizada was not sleeping. He was blurring the line between"Fashion Week Runway" and "Olympic Sprint."

Dressed in a Gen-Z masterpiece—oversized cargo pants, abillowing abstract-print silk shirt left unbuttoned over a white tank, and sneakers—hewas sprinting through the departure hall like a man whose life depended on it.His wavy hair was flying, his expensive sunglasses were perched uselessly onhis head, and he was dragging a sleek, sticker-covered Rimowa carry-on behindhim.

Nikhil (Panting, checking his watch, speaking to himself):"Gate 45? Why is Gate 45 always in a different pin code?! Yaar, MuskiAunty, your emotional blackmail better cover my cardio bill!"

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira sat up in bed, looking like a disheveled, beautifulghost. She grabbed her water glass. Empty.

Kaira (Flopping back down, staring at the ceiling):"Great. Even the water has abandoned me. Is this a sign? Is the universetelling me I’m thirsty for... clarity? Or just hydration? God, I hate 4 AMlogic."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

Nikhil drifted around a corner, narrowly avoiding acollision with a duty-free display of perfumes. He didn't stop; he just spungracefully, flashing a charming, breathless grin at the startled salesgirl.

Nikhil (Shouting back as he ran): "Sorry”

He spotted the gate. The airline staff were already reachingfor the "Gate Closed" rope.

Nikhil (Waving his boarding pass like a flag): "Ruko!Wait! Hold the door!"

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira finally punched her pillow into a submission hold,burying her face in it.

Kaira (Mumbling): "I just need... peace. Someonejust... turn off the noise in my head."

CUT TO MUMBAI.

Nikhil skidded to a halt at the Business Class counter,chest heaving, hair perfectly messy, looking like a GQ cover model who justsurvived a hurricane. The ground staff looked unimpressed.

Ground Staff: "Sir, boarding is closing. You are verylate."

Nikhil leaned on the counter, flashing his signaturelopsided, dimpled smirk, utilizing every ounce of his Raizada charm.

Nikhil (Breathless): "Madam, I am not late. I am dramaticallyon time. It’s an aesthetic choice. Besides, if I don't get on this flight, avery scary lady in Udaipur—my Mami—will likely hunt me down. You don't wantthat on your conscience, do you?"

The staff member tried to fight it, but the smirk wasundefeated. She sighed and beeped his pass.

Ground Staff: "Go. Quickly."

Nikhil grabbed his bag and sprinted down the aerobridge, thehollow thud of his sneakers echoing. He paused just at the aircraft door,looking back at the empty bridge, catching his breath.

Nikhil (Whispering to the Udaipur air): "I'm coming,Kai. Your shanti is on the way. And also your chaos. Mostly your chaos."

He stepped onto the plane, bringing his flamboyant energyinto the quiet cabin.

CUT TO UDAIPUR.

Kaira let out a long, deep sigh, finally finding a cold spoton the pillow. Her eyes fluttered shut, unaware that her "externalforce" was currently buckling his seatbelt at 30,000 feet, ready tocrash-land into her perfectly planned life.

Kaira (Sleepily): "Everything... will be... fine."

Nikhil (In the plane, putting on headphones): "It’sshowtime."

Kairav and Muskan were already dressed, moving with an airof comical stealth.

Kairav (Checking his watch, whispering fiercely):"Seven AM. Flight lands in 30 mins. We need to be out. If Kaira wakes upand sees us sneaking, she’ll launch a full-scale legal inquiry."

Muskan (Hissing back as they tiptoed): "Then stopwalking like a bull in a ceramic shop, Kairav! Be silent!"

They reached the grand staircase, and Kairav nearly lost hisfooting on the polished marble.

Kairav:” Yeh Design hi galat hai!Muski yeh kya interiordesign kiya tune”

Just as they reached the landing, a small, sleepy figureemerged: Daksh, seven years old, in dinosaur pajamas.

Daksh (Muttering, slightly confused): "Nani and Nana?Why are you dressed for office but walking like burglars?"

Kairav and Muskan froze.

Kairav (Voice strained, trying to sound casual):"Daksh! Good morning, son! We were just... going for an extremely early...uh... jog!"

Daksh (Skeptical): "A jog? But you’re wearing silk. Andnanu, your pulse is elevated. Are you experiencing tachycardia?"

Kairav (Whispering to Muskan): "What is 'tachycardia'?Is that a law firm in Delhi? I need a lawyer!"

Muskan (Stepping forward, seamlessly adopting the high-levellanguage): "It’s a secret, Daksh. We are undertaking a high-level BiomarkerAcquisition Protocol."

Daksh (Eyes widening, instantly attentive): "BiomarkerAcquisition Protocol? Is the sample viable? Does it require cryogenicpreservation?"

Muskan (Solemnly): "It's an Exotic Pathogen flown infrom London. It’s highly sensitive and needs immediate transfer to the GoenkaCenter before it causes acute emotional toxicity in the localenvironment."

Kairav (Completely lost, whispering desperately to Muskan):"Pathogen? Muskan! Are we picking up a virus? Why didn't you tell me! Idon't have my sanitiser!"

Muskan (Ignoring Kairav, focused on Daksh): "Yes. It’sa very specialized Green Flag Pathogen that requires a precise TemperatureGradient Stabilization. We have to handle it because it requires a highly rarequality: Emotional Intelligence."

Daksh (Proudly): "I see! So Nanu is the LogisticsManager and you are the Chief Stabilization Officer?"

Kairav (Fumbling): "I’m the... Logi—? Muskan, I justwant to pick up Nikhil! What are you talking about?"

Muskan (Shooting Kairav a death glare that shut him upinstantly): "Yes, Daksh. We are the Stabilization Team. This is strictlyclassified. You cannot tell anyone about the Exotic Pathogen or our BiomarkerProtocol! Can you keep a secret?"

Daksh: "Mission accepted, Nani! I will protect thesecret!"

Muskan pulled Kairav towards the door.

Kairav (As they reached the garage, bewildered):"Muskan, what was that? What is a 'Green Flag Pathogen'? And what if heasks me about the Biomarker Gradient again? I only know legal gradients!"

Muskan (Starting the car, her relief evident): "Itmeans he bought the lie, Kairav. Now, let’s go fetch the only person who canneutralize Aaryan's emotional toxicity—our 'Pathogen Sample,' Nikhil."

Muskan’s white luxury SUV, driven by Kairav, was parkeddiscreetly at the edge of the tarmac, near a small executive hangar, thanks toa few discreet calls made by the Goenka legal team.

Kairav (Looking anxiously at his watch): "Muskan, thisis illegal. Highly illegal. We are risking a violation of Aviation SecurityProtocol for a designer with questionable fashion choices."

Muskan (Calmly checking her reflection, smoothing hersaree): "It’s not illegal, Kairav, it's 'special dispensation for medicalretrieval.' And his fashion choices are Gen Z chic, which is exactly hamariaesthetic Kaira needs to remind her that life isn't just about beige lawbooks."

The roar of a jet engine grew louder. A sleek Air India A320 taxied onto the apron.

Kairav (Pointing): "There! That’s the flight fromMumbai. Our 'Exotic Pathogen' is about to land."

Muskan smiled, a genuine, relieved smile that reached hereyes—the first since the Poddars left.

A few minutes later, the plane stopped. The stairs wereattached, and soon, figures began descending, mostly corporate-looking men insuits. Then, the last person appeared.

Nikhil Raizada.

He looked exactly as he had at the Mumbaiairport—flamboyant, chaotic, but undeniably put-together in his oversized silkshirt and cargos. He was wearing noise-canceling headphones around his neck andsquinting slightly at the early morning sun, looking less like a passenger andmore like an indie rock star on tour.

Nikhil reached the bottom of the stairs, inhaling theUdaipur air, when he spotted the white SUV and the two impeccably dressedfigures waiting by it. He stopped dead. His jaw dropped, and he ripped theheadphones off his neck.

Nikhil (Muttering to himself): "Wait. Is that MuskanAunty? Did she take a second flight just to meet me? This is next-levelemotional commitment."

He broke into a run, his Rimowa bag clattering behind him.

Nikhil (Breathless, half-laughing): "Aunty! Uncle! Ohmy God! This is not a dream I had after eating that terrible Business Classpaneer tikka! You actually came to the tarmac! Is Kaira okay?"

Muskan, forgetting all corporate decorum, rushed forward andenveloped him in a tight hug. She buried her face in his shoulder, hersophisticated exterior dissolving instantly.

Muskan (Muffled, voice thick with emotion): "My beta!You came! You came so fast, I was so worried..."

Nikhil hugged her back fiercely, the maternal grief in hervoice instantly sobering him up.

Nikhil (Softly): "Of course, I came. Kaira is myperson. I wouldn't be anywhere else. Now stop the emotional blackmail, Aunty,you’re wrinkling my silk shirt."

Nikhil pulled back, beaming. He quickly moved toward Kairav,dropping his bag and bending to touch Muskan's feet in a traditional aashirvad(blessing) gesture.

Nikhil (Bending down): "Aunty, your aashirvad(blessing) is what I need before facing the Poddars. I need all the stabilizationprotocol I can get."

Muskan snatched her foot back with hilarious speed, leaningaway dramatically.

Muskan (Horrified): "Nahi! Stop it! Don’t do that,Nikhil! What are you doing? I’m Muskan Goenka, I'm not some ancient matriarchfrom the 80s! I'm only 51, darling! And you’ll ruin my saree pleats!"

Nikhil stood up, grinning widely, hands spread in mockinnocence.

Nikhil: "Just respecting the Senior StabilizationOfficer, Aunty. Point noted. No foot-touching before 60."

Kairav, who had been watching the entire exchange, let out agenuine, hearty laugh—a sound rarely heard in the Goenka mansion lately. Heclapped Nikhil warmly on the shoulder, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten.

Kairav (Smiling widely): "Nikhil! My boy! I’m so gladyou’re here. Muskan didn't tell me who she called, but I knew Kaira’s hypothalamicstress required your unique brand of chaos management."

Nikhil (Wiping his brow): "Chaos management is mydesign philosophy, Uncle. Just tell me the plan. Do we need to crash aboardroom or just re-design Aaryan’s wardrobe? Because both are equally urgent,I suspect."

Kairav picked up his Rimowa bag, his determination renewed.

Muskan: "We need coffee and a strategy session. Welcomehome, Nikhil. We have a girl to save."

At the airport curb, just as Kairav was about to loadNikhil’s Rimowa suitcase into the SUV, Nikhil placed a hand on the trunk,stopping him.

Nikhil (Checking his phone, a sudden instinct kicking in):"Wait. Uncle, don't put the bag in yet. I’m not coming to the Villa. Notyet."

Muskan (Confused): "What? Nikhil, we need to debrief!Where are you going? You just landed!"

Nikhil (Adjusting his sunglasses, a knowing smirk playing onhis lips): "Strategy later, Aunty. Priority first. It’s 8 AM. If I knowKaira—and I do know Kaira—when she’s stressed, she doesn’t go home. She goes tothe water."

Before Kairav could protest about security or logistics,Nikhil flagged down a passing Auto Rickshaw.

Nikhil (To the Auto Driver, effortlessly switching to streetsmarts): "Bhaiya, Gangaur Ghat loge? Meter se. And fast, I have a heroineto save."

He threw his backpack into the auto and hopped in, lookingridiculously out of place yet perfectly at home in his expensive silk shirt andchunky sneakers sitting on the torn rexine seat.

Nikhil (Saluting Kairav and Muskan): "Take the luggagehome. I’ll bring the 'Patient' back myself!"

The auto sputtered away, leaving Kairav and Muskan staringafter him.

Kairav (Shaking his head, smiling): "He’s crazy. Buthe’s right. She always goes to the Ghat."

Gangaur Ghat was bathed in the soft, golden haze of themorning sun. The pigeons fluttered near the water's edge, and the sounds oftemple bells rang in the distance.

Kaira Goenka stood on the lower steps, looking out at LakePichola. She looked breathtakingly simple, a stark contrast to the heavy silversaree of the previous day. She wore a white aesthetic Chikankari kurta set—long,flowy, and delicate—with a matching white chiffon dupatta. Her hair was loose,dancing slightly in the cool breeze.

She wrapped her arms around herself, the doubt about Aaryanstill a quiet hum in her chest. She needed peace. She needed to feel likeherself, not "Dr. Goenka, the Status Symbol."

Suddenly, a gust of wind—stronger than the rest—swept acrossthe ghat.

Whoosh.

Kaira’s lightweight chiffon dupatta slipped from hershoulder. It danced away, floating down the steep stone steps toward the water.

Kaira (Gasping): "Arre!"

She turned and ran after it, her instincts taking over. Sheskipped one step, then two, her eyes fixed on the white fabric fluttering away.

But the Ghat steps were uneven.

Her foot caught on a jagged stone. She lost her balance. Theworld tilted. A small scream escaped her lips as she pitched forward, bracingfor the hard impact of the stone steps.

But she never hit the ground.

Strong, familiar arms wrapped around her waist withpracticed precision. Her fall was arrested instantly, pulled against a chestthat smelled of sandalwood, sea salt, and expensive cologne.

It was a collision of worlds.

Kaira’s delicate, traditional white Chikankari crushedagainst Nikhil’s chaotic, vibrant abstract-print silk shirt. Her soft elegancemet his modern, rugged cargos.

Time seemed to freeze.

Just as he caught her, the wind shook the large Bougainvilleaand Gulmohar trees overhanging the steps. A shower of vibrant orange and pinkpetals rained down on them, settling in Kaira’s hair and on Nikhil’s shoulders.

It was iconic. It was cinematic. It was pure magic.

Kaira, heart pounding, slowly opened her eyes. She wasn'tlooking at the ground. She was looking up into a pair of warm, hazel eyes thatwere looking down at her with a mix of amusement and intense relief.

Nikhil held her firmly, his messy hair falling over hisforehead, the sunlight catching the gold rim of his sunglasses that had sliddown his nose.

Kaira stared. She blinked, unable to process thehallucination.

Kaira (Breathless, whispering): "Nikhil...?"

Nikhil grinned, that signature lopsided, dimpled smile thatshe had missed more than she realized.

He didn't let go. He just held her there, amidst the fallingflowers and the morning light, the perfect picture of the chaos she desperatelyneeded.

For five whole seconds, Nikhil forgot how to breathe.

Holding Kaira in his arms, surrounded by fallingBougainvillea petals, his brain short-circuited. He wasn't the cool, flamboyantfashion designer Nikhil Raizada anymore; he was just the boy who had beensecretly in love with her since the 6th grade.

His eyes traced her face—the shock in her wide eyes, thewind-blown hair sticking to her cheek. He stared at her like she was the onlypiece of art in a crowded gallery.

Nikhil (Internal Monologue): "Mar gaye. I am dead. Thisis it. Cause of death:Kaira."

He was leaning in unconsciously, completely entranced, asoft, goofy smile taking over his face.

Kaira, however, recovered much faster. She blinked, realizedwho was holding her, and her shock exploded into pure, high-decibel delight.

Kaira (Screaming at the top of her lungs): "NIKHIIIIIIIIL!"

The scream was so loud and sudden that Nikhil flinchedphysically, the romantic bubble popping instantly. He stumbled back, nearlytripping over his own chunky sneakers.

Nikhil (Covering his ears, wincing): "Arre! Bas! My eardrums are designer, Kai! They are not insured for this sonic blast!"

Kaira (Ignoring him, jumping on him for a bear hug):"Oh my God! Tu sach mein yahaan hai?! (You are actually here?!) I can’tbelieve it! Tu toh miracle hai! (You are a miracle!)"

She squeezed him tight, burying her face in his shoulder.Nikhil stood frozen for a split second before melting, wrapping his arms around her and lifting her slightly off the ground, spinning her once.

Nikhil (Laughing): "Haan, haan, main hoon. Put me down before you wrinkle my 'Emotional Support Shirt', woman!"

Kaira pulled back, beaming, her face flushed with happiness.

Kaira: "But how? Why? Tu toh London mein fashion week kar raha tha na? "

Nikhil (Adjusting his collar, putting his sunglasses backon): "Fashion never sleeps, darling, but it does travel. I have a secret heritage textile project here in Udaipur. Very hush-hush. Aur socha..since I'min the neighborhood, why not annoy my favorite person?"

Kaira’s eyes lit up even more. She grabbed his hands,bouncing on her toes.

Kaira: "You came at the perfect time! Nikhil, listen! I’m getting married! I’m engaged to Aaryan! It’s all happening!"

Nikhil’s smile froze. He felt a sharp tug in his chest, but he forced his face to remain neutral.

Kaira (Gushing, completely blinded): "He is amazing,Nick! You have to meet him. He is so supportive, so caring. He fights for me,he loves me... he is just my Prince Charming! Meri life set hai!"

Nikhil looked at Kaira’s glowing face, then recalled thebackground check Muskan Mami had hinted at—the stiffness, the rules, the Poddargloom.

He raised an eyebrow, shoving his hands into his cargopockets, his signature savage smirk returning.

Nikhil (Dryly): "Aaryan Poddar? Really? That guy?"

Kaira (Defensive but smiling): "Yes! What do you mean'that guy'? He is handsome and successful!"

Nikhil (leaning in, whispering conspiratorially): "Kai,sweetheart... I saw his Instagram. That man looks like he irons his underwear."

Kaira’s jaw dropped, and a bubble of laughter threatened toescape.

Nikhil (Continuing, relentless): "Seriously! Uska chehra dekh ke lagta hai ki woh haste waqt bhi 'Terms and Conditions' padhta hai. Does he have a personality, or is he just a human version of a PowerPoint presentation?"

Kaira (Bursting into loud laughter, slapping his arm):"Shut up, Nikhil! He is disciplined, okay? Not boring!"

Nikhil (Winking): "Disciplined? Darling, he looks likehis favorite color is 'Tax Return'. But fine, if you say he's Prince Charming,I'll believe you... for now."

Kaira laughed harder than she had in days, the heavy weightof the "Poddar Rules" lifting simply because Nikhil was there to makefun of them.

Kaira and Nikhil walked away from Gangaur Ghat, Kaira stillbuzzing with energy and Nikhil walking with the confident, hip-swaying gait ofa man who knows he looks good in cargos.

Kaira: "Okay, let's take the car. Uncle and Aunty mustbe worried sick. We should head straight home."

Nikhil (Stopping dead near a crowded, bustling street vendor selling hot snacks): "Stop! Stop right there, Kaira."

Kaira turned, seeing the busy, slightly chaotic stall piled high with golden-fried delights—crisp kachoris, sticky orange jalebis, and steaming samosas.

Kaira (Wrinkling her nose slightly): "Nikhil, what are you doing? That place is definitely not up to 'Goenka hygiene standards.' We can get fresh jalebis at home."

Nikhil ignored her entirely. He walked up to the stall with the focus of a curator inspecting a rare artifact.

Nikhil (To the vendor, counting on his fingers):"Bhaiya, do kilo jalebi pack kar do. Aur paanch samosa, achhe se fry karna, mirchi daalke. Aur do pyaz kachori alag se. No plastic, paper mein wra pkaro. Fast."

He pulled a thick wad of cash from his wallet—the samewallet that probably housed his European bank cards—and paid without checkingthe change.

Kaira (Staring, hands on her hips): "Nikhil! What is this madness? You flew from London, Business Class, and now you’re gettingstreet food? We need to talk about your aesthetic integrity!"

Nikhil (Turning, juggling the large paper packets expertly,his charm overpowering her protest): "Kaira, this is my grounding ritual.You can't fight global corporate giants on an empty stomach, or on blandhome-cooked food. This—" he gestured to the greasy packet—"is the realUdaipur flavor. Besides, Aaryan Uncle ke taste ki baat mat karo . He probablyeats organic celery sticks for breakfast."

Kaira couldn't help but shake her head, a huge smile back onher face. This was the Nikhil she grew up with—classy enough for Paris, streetsmart enough for any galli (alley). She grabbed a corner of the hot kachoripacket.

Kaira: "Fine! But if I get sick, you are footing themedical bills."

Nikhil: "Done. Now come on. We have a family to feed and a fiancé to mock."

They arrived at the grand Goenka Villa in a hired taxi, Nikhil carrying the fragrant, slightly greasy bags of snacks. Kaira was laughing uncontrollably, leaning against Nikhil as he recounted a ridiculous story about his flight.

They walked into the living area, bathed in the soft morninglight. Kairav and Muskan were waiting there, having just finished their tensediscussion and trying to look nonchalant.

The parents froze.

They didn't see the famous fashion designer or the ambitiousdoctor. They saw their daughter:

1. Her hair slightly messy from the wind and the fall.
2. Her elegant Chikankari kurta slightly crumpled.
3. And the look of pure, uninhibited happiness on her face, leaning on her childhood friend, her eyes sparkling with laughter.

Kairav saw his daughter, for the first time since Aaryanentered her life, look completely free. The rigid, professional facade wasgone. His eyes instantly welled up with emotion—joy, relief, and deep paternalgratitude for the young man standing beside her.

Muskan saw the relief too. She watched Kaira double overlaughing at something Nikhil whispered about the samosas. That genuine,carefree laughter was the best news they’d received all week.

Simultaneously, overwhelmed by the sight of their daughterradiating such joy after days of worry—and needing to protect this precious,fragile moment from the evil eye (Aaryan's influence)—both Kairav and Muskanlifted a hand to their mouths.

Kairav & Muskan (Synchronized and silent): "Thu!Thu! Thu!"

The spontaneous, coordinated gesture of warding off nazar(evil eye) was so perfectly timed that it was hilarious.

Kaira and Nikhil stopped talking, noticing the suddensilence and their parents' rigid, synchronized posture.

Kaira (Confused): "Mom? Dad? Kya hua? Are you bothpracticing some new yoga breathing technique?"

Nikhil grinned, understanding the silent fear and loveperfectly.

Kairav just beamed, stepping forward to hug Nikhil, hisrelief palpable.

Kairav: "Aao, beta! Come! Aao! (Come!)"

The room was heavy with the aftermath of yesterday’stension. Kajal (Kaveri’s daughter) was looking worried.

Kajal (To Sanjay and Krish): "Maa (Kaveri) is stillupset. She feels the Goenkas humiliated Aaryan with those financial questions.This entire alliance is resting on Kaira’s ambition, nothing else."

Sanjay: "They are covering their assets, Kajal. KairavGoenka is a sharp lawyer. But yes, the air is thick. We need to ensureeverything for the engagement is perfect."

Tanya was scrolling through her phone, half-listening,clearly bored by the endless corporate talk. Suddenly, her face lit up as shesaw the caller ID.

Tanya (Answering instantly, her voice instantly dropping allformality): "Nik bhai! Hey! How are you doing? Long time!"

Krish, Kajal, and Sanjay paused, looking at Tanya withconfusion. They were used to her enthusiasm, but this was a whole new level ofjoy.

Tanya (Squealing loudly, holding the phone away slightly):"Wait, wait, say that again? Udaipur?! Seriously? Arre waah! Yeh toh bestsurprise hai! (Wow! This is the best surprise!)"

She started bouncing slightly in her seat, completelyunaware of the three sets of wide eyes staring at her.

Tanya (Gushing): "Perfect timing! No, nahi nahi (no,no), I’m free! Of course, I’m free! You call me when you get settled, okay? Wehave so much to catch up on! Bye, Nik bhai! Love you!"

Tanya ended the call, beaming at her reflection, thenrealized she was being intensely scrutinized.

Krish (Raising an eyebrow, amused): "Tanya? Who wasthat? I haven't seen you this excited since you found out Zara was having amid-season sale."

Kajal (Slightly sternly): "That was a very loud phonecall, beta. Who is 'Nik bhai' who causes this much ruckus?"

Tanya sighed happily, pushing her hair back.

Tanya: "Oh, that was Nikhil Raizada. My cousin. Well,distant cousin. But he's my Nik bhai, and he's the best! He's a huge fashiondesigner in London now, you know. He's here in Udaipur for a designproject."

Sanjay nodded thoughtfully, recognizing the surname from thefamily tree.

Sanjay: "Raizada... Yes, I remember. Tanya's mother'sside. Very successful, I heard."

Krish (A tiny bit of suspicion entering his tone): "Afashion designer in Udaipur? That’s unusual. Does he know anyone here? Anyoneimportant?"

Tanya shrugged innocently, still riding the wave ofexcitement.

Tanya: "I don't know, maybe. He knows everyone! He’s socool and funny, Maa . He's the only one who can make me laugh till my stomach hurts. Wait... he grew up with Kaira, right? They were childhood best friends in the States!"

The casual revelation hit the room like a small explosion.

Krish, Kajal, and Sanjay exchanged significant glances. The same thought ran through all their minds: Nikhil Raizada, the estranged family connection, the green-flag designer, and Kaira Goenka’s childhood best friend,had just landed in Udaipur right before the Poddar engagement.

Kajal (Frowning, the Poddar anxiety instantly returning):"Nikhil... Kaira's childhood friend. Ab yeh kya naya siyappa hai?"

Tanya, oblivious to the high stakes of this 'simple'reunion, simply picked up her phone to text Nikhil.

Tanya (Muttering): "We need to go shopping, Nik bhai. Mywardrobe needs urgent intervention."

WOW 🥰 🥰 🥰..... Nikhil is such ball of sun shine.....

Him mocking Aryan is too hilarious... Specifically "the guy looks like he irons his underwear" is 🤣 🤣

Tanya beaming with energy in boring poddar house is cute after long...

Nikhil is amazing 🤩 🤩

Please when you mention Birla's can you😉 please make some part for tribute to Neil ka beaming & sunshineera 🤩

Awww this is so interesting can't wait for more drama