Rishta Simran FF: Saajan

Continuous chapters - Alternate Forum

Part 3 - Poetry competition

A few days passed.

Rishab had already become deeply involved in the affairs of Luthra Constructions. While Karan somehow managed to spend half the day working and the other half talking to girls, Rishab immersed himself completely in business and poetry.

One morning, Rishab was sitting in his cabin studying a project file.

The door opened.

He looked up.

Simar walked in.

Rishab smiled politely.

"Good morning."

"Good morning, Mr. Poet," Simar replied as she sat down without waiting for an invitation.

Rishab closed the file.

He asked, "What brings you here?"

Simar: Karan wants you to join him for some time. It will help you to release your stress.

Rishab immediately understood.

A faint smile appeared on his face. He shook his head.

Rishab: I enjoy my work because it's innovative.

Simar leaned forward.

Simar: I appreciate your creativity. But I think you are not giving importance to personal life. Come on, Rishab. There is more to life than files and poetry.

Rishab: Yes, there is."

Simran: Then let's go out for coffee.

Rishab: No, thank you."

Simar: Why not?"

Rishab: For me, work comes first.

Simar: You can spare half an hour.

Rishab: Simar, I appreciate your concern. For context, half an hour can also become half a day. I value time. So, I would rather finish my work before joining your guys.

Simar frowned.

Simar: No one had ever rejected her invitation so casually.

She tried again.

"Fine. We won't have coffee. Let's talk."

Rishab: We are talking."

Simar: Not like this."

Rishab's patience slowly began running out.

"Miss Simar, I appreciate your concern, but I am perfectly happy the way I am."

Simar folded her arms.

"You really think there is nothing wrong with sitting alone all day?"

"I enjoy solitude."

"And I think you are hiding behind it."

Rishab sighed.

He said, "Perhaps. But that is my choice."

Simar stood up.

Her ego was hurt.

She had approached him with good intentions, but his refusal felt like an insult.

"So that's it?"

"That's it."

"Fine."

She turned to leave but stopped near the door.

Anger overtook her judgment.

"You act as though you are better than everyone else."

Rishab's expression changed.

"I never said that."

"You don't have to say it."

Her voice rose.

"The truth is that you have forgotten where you came from."

Rishab became silent.

Simar continued recklessly.

"You were an orphan living in an orphanage."

The room fell silent.

"You are enjoying the wealth, respect, and status of the Luthras. Whatever you are today exists because of their charity. You are a big zero without them. I know your history. Right from treating your leg to your education, the family stood by you. It's because of them that you are eligible today. But you are too boring to fit in our high-class society. Once a beggar is always a beggar."

At that very moment, the cabin door opened.

Karan entered.

The smile on his face vanished immediately.

He had heard everything.

"Simar!"

His voice thundered through the room.

Simar froze.

Karan's eyes blazed with anger.

"What did you just say? As I mentioned, please lure him from his work for a while. I never told you to insult him."

Simar realized her mistake.

"Karan, listen—"

"No!"

For the first time, she saw genuine fury in him.

"You had absolutely no right to say that."

"I was angry."

"So insult him?"

Karan pointed toward Rishab.

"Do you even know what he means to me?"

Simar lowered her eyes.

Karan walked toward her.

"He is not my adopted brother."

His voice trembled.

"He is my brother. I love him more than my life. If any of my friends hurt him, I don't mind losing my friendship with them."

The room became emotional.

Karan turned toward Rishab.

"Bhai, I am sorry."

Rishab smiled gently.

"Why?"

"Because she insulted you."

Rishab slowly stood up.

He looked at Simar and then at Karan.

"What she said is true."

Karan stared at him.

Rishab continued calmly.

"I was an orphan."

His eyes became moist.

"I had no family."

He looked around the cabin.

"Everything I have today came because Mom and Dad opened their hearts for me."

His voice softened.

"They gave me their name."

"They gave me their love and took the place of my parents."

"They gave me a future."

It was because we were friends from childhood. You stood by me when all other students were bullying me for my disability. If I could get well, it was because of your family. I am indebted to all of you.

Karan's eyes filled with tears.

Rishab placed a hand on his shoulder.

"And had you not wanted an elder brother, I might never have become a part of this family."

Karan immediately hugged him.

"You are impossible. I have always found the figure of an elder brother in you. I always share my feelings with you. If at all I trust anyone, it's my parents and you."

Rishab smiled.

"No. I am fortunate to get a brother-cum-friend like you and the godly family."

Simar watched silently.

Guilt consumed her.

She had expected anger.

Instead, she had witnessed gratitude.

For the first time, she realized the depth of Rishab's character.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

Rishab nodded politely.

"It's alright."

The matter ended there.

But the incident remained in Simar's mind.

The dignity with which Rishab had handled the insult left a lasting impression on her.

A few days later, Mahesh entered Rishab's cabin.

"I have some good news."

Rishab looked up.

"The organizers of the National Poetry Competition want you to be the chief guest."

Rishab smiled.

"There are many senior poets."

"But only one Sagar."

Mahesh laughed.

"The audience wants Sagar."

Rishab agreed.

Meanwhile, at the Arora house, Preeta was reading the newspaper.

Her eyes widened.

A large advertisement covered almost half the page.

National Poetry Competition.

Chief Guest: Famous Poet Sagar.

Preeta jumped from her chair.

"Maa!"

Sarla rushed into the room.

"What happened?"

"Sagar is coming!"

Sarla laughed.

"You look happier than someone who won a lottery."

Preeta hugged her mother.

"I am definitely participating."

For the next few days, Preeta practiced tirelessly.

She selected one of Sagar's most emotional poems.

Every word touched her heart.

Finally, the day of the competition arrived.

The auditorium was packed.

Participants, writers, journalists, and literature lovers filled every seat.

The announcer stepped onto the stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the renowned poet Sagar."

Thunderous applause erupted.

Preeta looked toward the stage.

Her breath caught.

Standing before her was Rishab Luthra.

The same calm eyes.

The same gentle smile.

The same dignity she had seen from a distance in newspapers and magazines.

For a moment, she forgot to blink.

The competition began.

One participant after another performed.

Finally, Preeta's name was announced.

She walked onto the stage.

Rishab looked up.

The moment she began reciting, the entire hall fell silent. The song plays:

Bahut Pyaar Karate Hain,

Tumako Sanam

Bahut Pyaar Karate Hain,

Tumako Sanam

Kasam Chaahe Le Lo

kasam chahe le lo

Khudaa Ki Kasam

Bahut Pyaar Karte Hain

Tum ko Sanam

Bahut Pyaar Karte Hein

Tum ko Sanam...

The passion & the true feelings don't go unnoticed by Rishab. This is the first time he has been mesmerized by a lady.

Hamaarii Gazal Hai,

Tassavur Tumhaaraa

Hamaarii Gazal Hai,

Tassavur Tumhaaraa

Tumhaare Binaa Ab

Naa Jiinaa Hamaaraa

Tumhe Yuun Hii Chaahenge

Tumhe yuun Hii Chahenge

Jab Tak Hai Dam

Bahut Pyaar karte hein tumko sanam(2)

Preeta's intense voice impresses the entire crowd, including Rishab.

Saagar Kii Baahon Men,

Maujen Hain Jitanii

Saagar Kii Baahon Men,

Maujen Hain Jitanii

Hamako Bhii Tumase

Mohabbat Hai Utanii

Ke Yeh Beqaraarii Naa

Ke Yeh Beqaraarii Naa Ab Hogii Kam

Bahut Pyaar Karate Hain, Tumako Sanam

Bahut Pyaar Karate Hain, Tumako Sanam

Kasam chahe le lo

Kasam chahe le lo

Khuda ki kasam

Bahut Pyar Karte hein Tum ko Sanam

Bahut Pyar karte hein

Tum ko Sanam.

Every word carried emotion. Every line reflected understanding. For the first time, Rishab felt that someone truly understood the feelings hidden behind his poetry. When the performance ended, the audience erupted into applause.

At the end of the event, Preeta was declared the winner.

She walked onto the stage to receive her trophy.

Rishab handed it to her.

Their eyes met.

Rishab: Congratulations.

Preeta: Thank you.

Rishab: Your performance was beautiful.

Preeta smiled.

Preeta: Sagar's poetry made it beautiful.

For a moment, neither looked away.

That night, after returning home, Rishab sat alone in his room.

He opened his notebook.

The poet who had written thousands of verses suddenly found himself thinking about only one person.

Preeta.

For the first time, inspiration had a face.

Part 3

Amazing update.... finely written

thanks for the pm

Karan spending half the day working and half the day talking to girls was hilarious. Good that simar asked rishab to enjoy the life too instead of focusing only on work.But guess rishab refused it as he has a lot of work to do.i am shocked that simar insulted rishab just because he didn't join her.Her dialogues to him were very cruel.Good that karan scolded her.each and every dialogue he told simar was touching.Rishab's dialogues to karan were emotional. Glad that simar felt guilty and she apologized to rishab.was this scene there in the movie?

Guess preeta is taking part in the competition only to see sagar.preeta selecting sagar's poem was lovely.preeta singing and rishab lost in her was sweet.Rishab appreciating her and preeta saying that sagar's poem made it nice was lovely.

When they welcomed sagar to the stage preeta saw rishab.so did preeta realize that rishab is sagar?

Pics are nice.edits are too beautiful.

Part 4 - The Face Behind the Words

A week after the poetry competition, Preeta was sitting in her room staring at the trophy she had won.

Beside it lay a letter.

A letter she had written countless times and torn apart before finally gathering the courage to send.

It was addressed to Sagar.

Not the famous poet.

But the man behind the poetry.

The man whose eyes carried silent emotions.

The man she could not stop thinking about.

Dear Sagar,

Your poems have always touched my heart.

After meeting you, I realized that the sensitivity in your words comes from the goodness in your soul.

Thank you for inspiring people like me.

Yours sincerely,

Preeta

Days later, a reply arrived.

Preeta almost dropped the envelope in excitement.

With trembling fingers, she opened it.

Dear Preeta,

A poet writes thousands of words, hoping someone somewhere understands them.

Your performance made me feel understood.

Thank you.

Your friend,

Sagar

A bright smile spread across her face.

And thus began a beautiful friendship.

Weeks passed.

Letters traveled regularly between them.

Sometimes they discussed poetry.

Sometimes dreams.

Sometimes life.

Neither realized how eagerly they waited for the next letter.

One evening...

Rishab sat in his room writing.

Dear Preeta,

You once asked why I write sad poetry.

Perhaps because happiness is easy to live with, but pain is easier to understand.

What is your greatest dream?

He folded the letter.

The next reply came two days later.

Dear Sagar,

My greatest dream is to help people who never got the opportunity to study.

Education can change lives.

What about yours?

Rishab smiled while reading.

He immediately wrote back.

My dream is similar.

Rishab got the next letter from Preeta.

Dear Sagar,

I believe our letter brought us closer.

I want literature to reach those who cannot afford books.

Let's work together on such a project.

Preeta's eyes sparkled after reading those words.

One afternoon, another envelope arrived at Luthra House.

The moment Rishab saw the familiar handwriting, a smile appeared on his face.

It was from Preeta.

He carefully opened the envelope.

A letter slipped out.

Along with it came a newspaper photo clipping and a small gift box.

Curious, Rishab unfolded the letter.

Dear Sagar,

Today I am sending you something special.

Enclosed is the newspaper clipping from the poetry competition at which I received the trophy.

Whenever I look at it, I remember the day our friendship began.

I am also sending a small gift.

I hope you like it.

There is one more thing.

In my room, I have a photo frame that has remained empty for a very long time.

For some reason, I feel that your photograph belongs there.

Today I am sending you my photograph and would appreciate yours in return.

Please don't disappoint me.

Help me complete that photo frame.

Waiting eagerly.

Your friend,

Preeta

Rishab unfolded the newspaper cutting.

There stood Preeta on the stage, smiling proudly while holding the trophy.

Attached to the cutting was a passport-sized photograph.

His eyes lingered on it.

Then he opened the gift box.

Inside was a silver chain.

A customized pendant hung from it.

The name engraved on it was:

SAGAR

For several moments, Rishab stared at it.

No one had ever given him something so personal.

A strange warmth filled his heart.

Slowly, he opened his drawer.

Inside lay several photographs of himself.

For the first time, he seriously considered sending one.

His fingers picked up a photograph.

Then suddenly...

Simar's words echoed in his mind.

"You may be a Luthra today, but everything you have belongs to this family."

"People respect the surname, not you."

"Without the Luthras, who is Rishab?"

His smile faded.

He looked once more at Preeta's photograph.

What if she began seeing him differently after learning he was Rishab Luthra?

What if she stopped seeing Sagar?

What if she started seeing only the wealth, the status, and the famous surname?

No.

He wasn't ready.

Slowly, he returned his photograph to the drawer.

Then he sat down and began writing.

Dear Preeta,

Thank you for the beautiful gift.

The pendant shall always remain precious to me.

And thank you for trusting me with your photograph.

You look exactly the way I imagined—warm, sincere, and full of life.

As for my photograph...

Please forgive me.

There are some introductions that destiny should make in its own time.

Perhaps someday, when fate permits, I shall stand before that empty frame myself.

Until then, let our friendship continue through words.

Your friend,

Sagar

When Preeta received the reply, disappointment touched her face for a brief moment.

But as she read the letter again, her smile returned.

Especially the line:

"Perhaps someday, when fate permits, I shall stand before that empty frame myself."

That sentence remained in her thoughts for days.

Several nights later, she couldn't sleep.

Finally, she sat down and wrote another letter.

Dear Sagar,

I have been trying to write this letter for three days.

Every time I start, I tear the page.

Perhaps because I don't fully understand what I am feeling.

Earlier, I waited for your letters.

Now I count the days between them.

Earlier, your poems made me smile.

Now even your name does.

Whenever the postman arrives, my heartbeat becomes faster.

Whenever your letter reaches me, I read it more than once.

And whenever I don't hear from you, something feels incomplete.

I don't know what this feeling is.

Maybe it is friendship.

Maybe it is admiration.

Or perhaps it is something that poetry understands better than people do.

All I know is that your words have become a part of my day.

And that empty photo frame still waits patiently for you.

Your friend,

Preeta

As Rishab read the letter days later, his eyes stopped at one particular line.

"Whenever the postman arrives, my heartbeat becomes faster."

For the first time, his own heartbeat did the same.

The following afternoon, Rishab and Karan were having coffee at a luxury hotel.

Rishab was busy reviewing business documents. At the same time, he was lost in Preeta's thoughts but happy. However, Karan didn't miss it.

Karan: What's the matter? Today, you look lost but happy. I guess you fell in love with a lady.

Rishab smiles. "He said, ' In your company, anything can happen to me except for falling in love."

Suddenly, he sees a lady sitting opposite an older woman.

"Bhai," Karan sighed.

"You know, one day these files will become jealous of me."

Rishab didn't look up.

"Why?"

"Because you spend more time with them than with your family."

Rishab smirked.

"At least the files don't give me headaches."

Karan was about to reply when his eyes suddenly stopped at a nearby table.

Immediately, a grin spread across his face.

"There."

Rishab looked up.

He asked, "What now?"

Karan pointed discreetly.

Karan replied, "See that girl?"

Rishab glanced briefly.

Then returned to his file.

"So?"

"So?" Karan repeated dramatically. "Within ten minutes, she'll be in my arms."

Rishab calmly closed the file and said, "No."

Karan frowned.

"No?"

Rishab replied, "You'll get beaten up."

Karan laughed loudly. He said, "You have no faith in me."

Rishab: I have years of experience with you.

Ignoring the warning, Karan stood up.

Karan: Watch and learn.

Rishab leaned back in his chair.

This was going to be entertaining.

Karan immediately began pretending to be blind.

Stretching his hands in front of him, he stumbled dramatically across the restaurant.

A few moments later—

Crash!

He "accidentally" fell toward the young woman.

"Oh!"

The girl immediately stood up.

"Are you alright?"

Karan nodded helplessly.

"I am so sorry."

"I couldn't see."

The elderly lady's expression softened.

"Poor boy."

The young woman gently supported him and took him to his seat, where Rishab was sitting.

She said, "Please be careful."

Across the hall, Rishab shook his head.

Unbelievable.

The elderly lady smiled warmly.

"Such a handsome young man."

"What a tragedy."

"He is blind."

Karan almost smiled in victory.

Then disaster arrived.

The waiter stopped beside the table.

"Blind?"

Everyone looked at him.

The waiter pointed at Karan.

"Madam, he isn't blind."

Karan's face fell.

The waiter continued happily.

"This is Karan Luthra."

"Mahesh Luthra's son."

The elderly lady frowned.

The waiter grinned.

"He is famous for flirting with girls."

"He is ready to become anything to get a girl in his arms."

The restaurant fell silent.

Karan slowly turned around.

The young woman looked horrified.

The elderly lady looked furious.

Rishab quietly picked up his coffee.

He knew what was coming.

"You lied to us?" the elderly lady shouted.

"Catch him!"

Karan ran.

The crowd chased him through the hotel.

Rishab remained seated.

Exactly as predicted.

Unfortunately for Karan, the crowd caught him on the staircase.

The next few moments involved angry shouting, flying handbags, and several well-deserved slaps.

"Ouch!"

"Listen!"

"It was a misunderstanding!"

Nobody listened.

Several minutes later, Karan finally escaped and sprinted out of the hotel.

At that exact moment, Mahesh's car passed by.

Mahesh frowned.

"Wasn't that Karan?"

His business partner looked outside.

A bruised Karan was running for his life.

Before they could stop him, Karan disappeared.

Luthra House

That evening...

Karan quietly entered Luthra House.

Mahesh was waiting.

"Stop."

Karan froze.

Mahesh folded his arms.

"I saw you today."

Karan immediately became emotional.

"If you saw me, why didn't you save me?"

Mahesh stared at him and laughed sarcastically.

"Save you?"

"If I had stepped out of the car, I would have been beaten up with you."

Even Rakhi started laughing.

Karan looked betrayed.

Suddenly, the telephone rang.

Karan instantly rushed toward it.

"I'll get it."

Before he could answer, Rakhi stopped him.

"This phone is what spoils him."

Mahesh nodded.

"You're right."

He took the receiver from Karan's hand.

"Dad!"

Mahesh ignored him.

"Go upstairs."

"Change your clothes."

"And come back."

Karan sighed dramatically.

"My own family doesn't understand me."

Rishab, who had watched silently, finally laughed.

A few weeks later, the idea discussed in the letters became reality.

Luthra Foundation and a local NGO launched a literacy campaign together.

The project aimed to provide books and education to underprivileged children.

Rishab personally supervised it.

Preeta volunteered enthusiastically.

Their meetings became frequent.

Every day, they spent hours planning classes, arranging books, and interacting with children.

One afternoon...

The children were drawing pictures.

Rishab stood observing them.

Preeta approached, carrying notebooks.

"You were right."

Rishab looked at her.

"About what?"

"The smile on a child's face is better than any award."

Rishab smiled.

"I am glad you agree."

Their eyes met briefly.

Both looked away.

For reasons neither understood.

A few days later...

After a successful literacy event, Preeta and Rishab stopped at a hotel café.

Soft music played in the background.

Preeta stirred her coffee.

"I never imagined Sagar would be so serious."

Rishab laughed softly.

"And I never imagined Preeta would talk so much."

She gasped dramatically.

"That was an insult."

"It was an observation."

Both laughed.

For the first time, Rishab felt completely relaxed around someone outside his family.

At that very moment...

The hotel entrance opened.

Karan walked inside with a business client.

He froze.

His eyes landed on Rishab and Preeta.

A mischievous smile appeared on his face.

He quietly walked toward them.

Suddenly...

Preeta turned while standing up.

She accidentally bumped into Karan.

The files in her hands fell to the floor.

"Oh, my God! I am sorry."

Karan immediately bent down.

"No problem."

For a brief moment, both reached for the same file.

Their hands touched.

Preeta quickly withdrew hers.

Karan smiled.

"It's alright."

Rishab stood up.

"Karan?"

Karan grinned.

"So this is where Mr. Work Comes First spends his evenings."

Rishab rolled his eyes.

Preeta laughed.

Karan looked at her.

"So you are the famous Preeta."

She blinked.

"Famous?"

"I hear your name every day."

Rishab almost choked on his coffee.

"Karan!"

Karan burst out laughing.

The three talked for a few minutes before Karan left.

But as he walked away, he glanced back.

For some reason, he felt happy seeing Rishab smile so freely.

A few days later...

Preeta gathered courage.

"Would you like to visit my house?"

Rishab looked surprised.

"Your house?"

"Maa has heard so much about you that she thinks you already live there."

Rishab laughed.

"In that case, I should probably meet her."

The following evening, Rishab drove toward the Arora house.

As the car moved through the city streets, his thoughts remained fixed on Preeta.

In his imagination, the melody echoed...

✭✭✭Male✭✭✭

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Par saamne jab tum aate ho, (2)

Kuch bhi kehne se darta hai

O mere saajan, o mere saajan,

Saajan saajan, mere saajan

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Rishab imagines himself with Preeta, sharing romantic moments on a lawn.

Kitna isko samajhata hoon,

Kitna isko behlata hoon

Kitna isko samajhata hoon,

Kitna isko behlata hoon

Naadaan hai kuch na samajhata hai,

Din raat ye aahen bharta hai

❤❤❤Female❤❤❤

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Par saamne jab tum aate ho, (2)

Kuch bhi kehne se darta hai

O mere saajan, o mere saajan,

Saajan saajan, mere saajan

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

❤❤❤Female❤❤❤

Har pal mujhko tadpata hai,

Mujhe saari raat jagata hai

Har pal mujhko tadpata hai,

Mujhe saari raat jagata hai

Is baat ki tumko khabar nahi,

Ye sirf tumhi pe marta hai

✭✭✭Male✭✭✭

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

❤❤❤Female❤❤❤

Mera dil bhi kitna pagal hai

Ye pyar to tum se karta hai

✭✭✭Male✭✭✭

Par saamne jab tum aate ho

❤❤❤Female❤❤❤

Par saamne jab tum aate ho

✭✭✭Male✭✭✭

Kuch bhi kehne se darta hai

O mere saajan, o mere saajan,

Saajan saajan, mere saajan.

For the first time in years, his heart felt lighter.

When he reached the house, Sarla welcomed him warmly.

Rishab folded his hands respectfully.

"I guess you must be Maa."

Sarla immediately liked him.

During dinner, laughter filled the house.

Rishab felt an unfamiliar warmth.

A feeling of belonging.

While looking around the living room, something caught his attention.

A large decorative photo frame hung on the wall.

But it was empty.

Completely blank.

Rishab frowned.

"Why is that frame empty?"

For a brief moment, Preeta's smile faded.

She looked at the frame silently.

Sarla exchanged a glance with her daughter.

"There is a story behind it," Sarla said softly.

Preeta quickly changed the subject.

"We'll tell you someday."

Rishab sensed hidden emotions.

He did not ask further.

But his gaze returned to the blank frame once again.

Somehow, he felt that the empty frame was connected to a wound that had never healed.

And unknowingly...

That blank frame was destined to play an important role in all three lives very soon.

Far away, Karan stood on the balcony of Luthra House, looking at the stars.

A strange restlessness filled his heart.

He did not know why.

He did not know that destiny had already begun writing a story that would test friendship, love, and sacrifice.

End of Part 4

Originally posted by: jasminerahul

Karan spending half the day working and half the day talking to girls was hilarious. Good that simar asked rishab to enjoy the life too instead of focusing only on work.But guess rishab refused it as he has a lot of work to do.i am shocked that simar insulted rishab just because he didn't join her.Her dialogues to him were very cruel.Good that karan scolded her.each and every dialogue he told simar was touching.Rishab's dialogues to karan were emotional. Glad that simar felt guilty and she apologized to rishab.was this scene there in the movie?

Guess preeta is taking part in the competition only to see sagar.preeta selecting sagar's poem was lovely.preeta singing and rishab lost in her was sweet.Rishab appreciating her and preeta saying that sagar's poem made it nice was lovely.

When they welcomed sagar to the stage preeta saw rishab.so did preeta realize that rishab is sagar?

Pics are nice.edits are too beautiful.

No, she didn't apologize to him in the movie. Preeta didn't know that Rishab is her Sagar.

Part 5 - Tu Shayar Hai

The days following the launch of the Udaan Project passed quickly.

The literacy initiative had received an overwhelming response. The Udaan center organized the first major cultural event to raise awareness about education and literature.

Preeta had been asked to perform.

Rishab, as always, was busy overseeing the arrangements.

But whenever Preeta was around, his attention seemed to find its way toward her.

That evening, the auditorium was beautifully decorated.

Students, teachers, volunteers, and several guests filled the hall.

Backstage, Preeta nervously adjusted her dupatta.

Rishab approached her.

"Are you nervous?"

She looked at him.

"A little."

"You? The girl who can stand before hundreds of people and recite poetry without hesitation?"

"Poetry is different."

"How?"

"Poetry doesn't stare back at me."

Rishab smiled.

"Then don't look at them."

"Look at me."

Preeta's nervousness disappeared for a moment.

She smiled.

"I'll try."

The announcement was made.

"Please welcome Preeta Arora."

The audience applauded.

Preeta walked onto the stage.

The lights dimmed.

Music began.

Tu Shayar Hai

The song filled the auditorium.

Preeta began to dance.

Tu Shayar Hai

Main Teri Shayari

Tu Shayar Hai

Main Teri Shayari

Tu Aashiq Hai Main Teri Aashiqui

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

O Mere Saajana

Me Shayar Hu

Tu Meri Shayari

Me Aashiq Hu Tu Meri Aashiqui

Rishab took her pics.

Teri Har Nazm Tera Har

Geet Hai Yaad Mujhe

Teri Har Nazm Tera Har

Geet Hai Yaad Mujhe

Jab Tak Saans Chalegi Na

Bhoolungi Main To Tujhe

Tere Bina Jeena Nahi

Kha Ke Kasam Kehti Hu

Tere Bina Jeena Nahi

Kha Ke Kasam Kehti Hu

Maine Bina Dekhe Bina

Jaane Tujhe Dil De Diya

Tu Dhadkan Hai

Main Teri Zindagi

Tu Shayar Hai Main Teri Shayari

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

O Mere Saajana

Tu Shayar Hai

Main Teri Shayari

Tu Aashiq Hai Main Teri Aashiqui

Apni Betaabi Ka Main Kaise

Tujhase Izahaar Karu

Apni Betaabi Ka Main Kaise

Tujhase Izahaar Karu

Kaise Batalaau Tujhe

Jaan-E-Jaana Kitna Main Pyar Karu

Lab Pe Koi Naam Nahi

Tere Siva Meri Janam

Lab Pe Koi Naam Nahi

Tere Siva Meri Janam

Mere Is Dil Pe Tera Hi Nasha Chha Gaya

Me Deewana

Tu Meri Deewangi

Me Shayar Hu Tu Meri Shayari

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

Tujhe Milne Ko Dil Karta Hai

O Meri Jaan -e- jaaa

Tu Shayar Hai

Main Teri Shayari

Me Aashiq Hu Tu Meri Aashiqui

Her movements were graceful and expressive, reflecting the song's emotions. She moved across the stage with confidence, her smile growing with every beat.

Rishab stood among the audience, completely absorbed.

He had seen Preeta as a poet.

He had seen her as a bookstore owner.

He had seen her working tirelessly for Udaan.

But seeing her dance like this was different.

His eyes never left her.

When the performance ended, the entire auditorium erupted in applause.

Preeta looked toward Rishab.

He was smiling.

She smiled back.

After the event, everyone gathered backstage.

Rishab took out his camera.

Preeta noticed.

"What are you doing?"

"Taking photographs."

"Of what?"

"You."

She laughed.

"Why?"

"Because you were good."

"Just good?"

Rishab pretended to consider.

"Very good."

"That's better."

He clicked another photograph.

Preeta posed playfully.

"At least tell me before taking my picture."

"I'm trying to capture the moment."

"And what if I don't like the picture?"

"Then I'll take another."

He clicked again.

And again.

Soon, Preeta was laughing.

"How many pictures are you going to take?"

"Until I get the perfect one."

She looked at him softly.

"And if you never do?"

Rishab lowered the camera.

"Then I'll keep trying."

For a moment, their eyes met.

Neither spoke.

The celebrations continued late into the night.

Eventually, the guests began leaving.

One by one, the lights around the Udaan center were switched off.

Preeta gathered her belongings.

Rishab approached her.

"Ready?"

She nodded.

"Thank you for staying."

"I wasn't going to let you go alone."

They walked toward the car.

The roads were almost deserted.

The night was quiet.

Rishab drove while Preeta looked out of the window.

"Today was beautiful," she said.

"It was."

"Do you think the project will really make a difference?"

Rishab glanced at her.

"With people like you involved, yes."

Preeta smiled.

Suddenly-

A group of men appeared in the middle of the road.

Rishab immediately stopped the car.

Preeta looked frightened.

"Who are they?"

"I don't know."

The men surrounded the vehicle.

One of them pulled open the door.

"Get out."

Rishab stepped out.

"Leave her alone."

The man laughed.

"You should be worried about yourself."

Another man attacked.

Rishab blocked the blow.

Within seconds, a fight broke out.

Rishab fought fiercely, protecting Preeta.

One attacker tried to grab her.

Rishab immediately pushed him away.

"Don't touch her!"

More men surrounded him.

Rishab continued fighting, but the numbers were against him.

Suddenly, headlights appeared on the road.

A car stopped nearby.

Karan stepped out.

He looked at the scene.

His expression changed instantly.

"Rishab!"

He ran toward them.

"Need some help, Bhai?"

Rishab blocked another attack.

"You're late."

Karan grinned.

"At least I came."

He joined the fight.

The brothers fought side by side.

Within minutes, the attackers were forced to retreat.

The remaining goons ran into the darkness.

Karan straightened his jacket.

"See? I told you I was useful."

Rishab shook his head.

"Don't get used to it."

Preeta approached them.

"Are you both alright?"

Rishab nodded.

"I'm fine."

Karan looked at Preeta and smiled.

"Don't worry. My brother is very stubborn."

Rishab glared at him.

"Karan."

"What?"

"You talk too much."

Preeta laughed despite everything.

The tension finally broke.

The following morning...

The sun was bright.

Karan had decided that after the previous night's excitement, he deserved a day of relaxation.

He went on a picnic with his friend.

Music played from the jeep as they drove toward a scenic spot outside the city.

Karan was back to his carefree self.

His friend laughed.

"Yesterday you were fighting goons. Today you're on a picnic."

"Life is about balance."

They reached a beautiful, green hillside.

Karan stepped out of the jeep.

"Perfect."

His friend looked around.

"Now what?"

"Enjoy."

They began walking toward the picnic area.

Then Karan stopped.

His eyes fell on a group of young women laughing together.

And among them-

Preeta.

She was spending the day with her friends.

She wore a beautiful traditional outfit, her hair moving gently in the breeze as she laughed.

Karan stared.

His friend noticed.

"What happened?"

Karan didn't answer.

"Who is she?"

His friend followed his gaze.

"You don't know her?"

Karan shook his head.

"No."

His eyes remained fixed on Preeta.

Something about her was different.

For once, there was no mischievous grin.

No flirtatious remark.

No plan.

He watched her.

Preeta laughed at something one of her friends said.

Karan smiled unconsciously.

His friend nudged him.

"You're staring."

Karan finally looked away.

Then looked back.

"I think..."

"What?"

Karan smiled.

"I think I've fallen in love."

His friend burst out laughing.

"You?"

Karan nodded, still watching Preeta.

"For the first time..."

He paused.

"...I don't feel like flirting."

"I just want to know her."

Across the picnic area, Preeta remained completely unaware of the man who had just fallen for her at first sight.

Karan watched Preeta laughing with her friends.

For the first time, his usual flirtatious smile disappeared.

He realized that this wasn't another girl he wanted to impress.

He has genuinely fallen for her.

Part 6 - Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna Hai

The morning after the picnic, Karan could not concentrate on anything.

The image of Preeta laughing with her friends kept returning to his mind.

The song plays

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Jo Kabhi Hum Mile

Toh Zamana Dekhega Apna Pyar

O Mere Yaar

O Mere Yaar

Karan is driving the car, daydreaming about Preeta.

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Jo Kabhi Hum Mile

Toh Zamana Dekhega Apna Pyar

O Mere Yaar

O Mere Yaar

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Main Shayar Nahi Deewana Nahi

Main Aashiq Nahi Parwana Nahi

Main Shayar Nahi Deewana Nahi

Main Aashiq Nahi Parwana Nahi

Mili Jabse Nazar Tabse Jaan-E-Jigar

Mili Jabse Nazar Tabse Jaan-E-Jigar

Main Ho Gaya Deewana

Main Ho Gaya Deewana

Ab Jaane Kya Hoga Jaan-E-Jana

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Kya Pata Phir Kaha Kab Mulaakat Ho

Woh Haseena Se Phir Dil Ki Baat Ho

Kya Pata Phir Kaha Kab Mulaakat Ho

Woh Haseena Se Phir Dil Ki Baat Ho

Uske Jaisi Haseen Maine Dekhi Nahi

Uske Jaisi Haseen Maine Dekhi Nahi

Rokega Kya Zamana Maine

Dil Mein Hai Thana

Mujhko Use Hai Abhi Apna Banana

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

Jo Kabhi Hum Mile

Toh Zamana Dekhega Apna Pyar

O Mere Yaar

O Mere Yaar

Tumse Milne Ki Tamanna

Hai Pyar Ka Irada Hai

Aur Ek Wada Hain Jaanam

For someone always surrounded by girls, this feeling was unfamiliar as he began to dream about Preeta.

Usually, Karan knew exactly what he wanted.

A smile.

A conversation.

A flirtatious exchange.

And then he would move on.

But this time was different.

He didn't even know her name.

And that bothered him more than anything.

At the place where Rishab was staying

Rishab was in the hill station for the Udaan Project and was staying there for business.

He was going through some files when the door suddenly opened.

Karan walked in.

He threw himself onto the sofa.

Rishab looked up.

"What happened to you?"

"Nothing."

Rishab raised an eyebrow.

"I know you, Karan."

Karan remained silent.

Rishab put the file aside.

"Are you alright?"

Karan sighed.

"I think I'm in love."

Rishab stared at him.

Then he laughed.

"In love?"

"Yes."

"With whom?"

Karan looked at him helplessly.

"I don't know."

Rishab's smile disappeared.

"What do you mean you don't know?"

"I saw her yesterday."

"Where?"

"At the picnic."

"And?"

"I fell in love with her."

Rishab shook his head.

"Karan, you didn't even talk to her."

"I didn't need to."

"At least tell me her name."

Karan became quiet.

"I don't know."

Rishab stared at him.

"You don't know her name?"

Karan nodded.

"I was with you when we fought those goons the other night. Then yesterday I saw her at the picnic."

He sighed.

"I was so lost looking at her that I forgot to ask her name."

Rishab couldn't help smiling.

"This is the first time I've seen you become speechless because of a girl."

"I'm serious, Bhai."

"You're always serious for the first five minutes."

Karan frowned.

"This time is different."

Rishab returned to his files.

"We'll see."

The day passed.

Karan remained restless.

He walked around the room.

Sat down.

Got up again.

Looked through the window.

Then finally turned toward Rishab.

"Bhai."

"What?"

"What if I never see her again?"

"Then you'll survive."

Karan glared at him.

"You don't understand."

Rishab smiled.

"I understand you very well."

Karan was about to reply when there was a knock at the door.

Rishab looked up.

"Come in."

The door opened.

Preeta entered.

She smiled when she saw Rishab.

"Sorry. Am I disturbing you?"

"No," Rishab replied warmly. "Come in."

Karan turned toward her.

The moment he saw her, he froze.

His eyes widened.

It was her.

The same girl from the picnic.

The girl he had been unable to stop thinking about.

He looked at Rishab.

Then back at Preeta.

His voice came out almost as a whisper.

"Bhai..."

Rishab noticed his expression.

"What?"

Karan leaned closer.

"She's the one."

Rishab looked at him.

"The one?"

"The girl."

"The girl I told you about."

Rishab's expression changed.

He looked toward Preeta.

Then back at Karan.

Karan continued softly,

"I don't know what happened to me, Bhai."

"But this time I'm not interested in flirting."

"I genuinely love her."

Rishab remained silent.

He already knew the truth about Preeta's heart.

She was not like the girls Karan had known before.

And, more importantly, she loved someone.

Someone called Sagar.

Rishab looked at Preeta.

"Her name is Preeta."

Karan repeated the name softly.

"Preeta..."

A smile appeared on his face.

"It's beautiful."

Rishab looked at him seriously.

"She is different from the other ladies you've met."

"I know."

"And she loves someone else."

Karan's smile disappeared.

"Someone else?"

"Yes."

"Who is that lucky person?"

Rishab hesitated.

"She loves a poet."

Karan frowned.

"A poet?"

"Sagar."

Karan looked confused.

"Sagar?"

"Yes."

"Where is he?"

Rishab looked at Preeta.

"That's the problem."

"She has never met him personally."

Karan's expression brightened.

"Then there's still a chance."

Rishab shook his head.

"Don't misunderstand me."

"If you are genuinely serious about her, I can help you."

Karan stared at him.

"How?"

"Tomorrow is her birthday."

Rishab paused.

"I can arrange a surprise for her."

Karan's eyes lit up.

"Really?"

"But remember one thing."

"What?"

"If you are going to enter her life, don't play games with her."

Karan became unusually serious.

"I won't."

Rishab nodded.

"Then I'll help you."

Karan smiled.

"For the first time, I think I'm actually lucky to have an elder brother."

Rishab smiled.

"You've always had one."

However, Rishab was in pain because he loved the same girl. The song plays:

Jeeye To Jeeye Kaiiiseeee

Haaai Bin Aaaaapkeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeee Kaiseeee

Haaai Bin Aaaapkeeee

Lagta Nahiiin Dil Kahiiiin

Bin Aaaaaapkeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Haiiii Bin Aaaapkeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Haiiii Bin Aaaaapkeeee

Kaise! kahoon?

Bina Tere

Zindagi Ye Kya Hogi

Kaise Kahoon

Bina Tere

Zindagi Ye Kya Hogi

Jaise Koi Saza

Koi Badd-Dua Hogiiii

Jaise Koi Saza

Koi Badd-Dua Hogiiii

Maine Kiya Haiiii

Ye Faislaaaa

Jeena Nahin Haiiii

Tere Binaaaa

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Bin Aaaaapkeeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiiiseee

Haiiiii Bin Aaaapkeeee

However, Rishab decides to unite Karan with Preeta, thinking she would have a blissful life with him after marrying him, and Karan would be a responsible person.

That evening, Preeta returned home unaware of what was being planned.

Rishab watched her leave.

His expression became thoughtful.

He knew what tomorrow would mean for Karan.

But there was another truth only he knew.

He was Sagar.

The man Preeta loved.

The man whose letters she waited for.

The man whose photograph she had asked for.

And tomorrow, Karan would unknowingly become part of that secret.

The next morning

It was Preeta's birthday.

The Arora house was filled with preparations.

Flowers decorated the entrance.

Her friends arrived with gifts.

Sarla was busy in the kitchen.

Preeta smiled as everyone wished her.

But somewhere in her heart, she was waiting for one particular person.

One particular letter.

One particular name.

Sagar.

She quietly looked toward the door.

Then she smiled at herself.

"Why am I waiting for him?"

She didn't know that he was already on his way.

Meanwhile, Rishab and Karan arrived outside the Arora house.

Karan stepped out of the car carrying a beautifully wrapped gift.

He looked nervous.

Rishab noticed.

"Why are you nervous?"

"I've never felt like this before."

"Good."

"Good?"

"It means you're taking her seriously."

Karan took a deep breath.

"Let's go."

The two brothers walked toward the house.

Rishab rang the bell.

The door opened.

Preeta appeared.

The moment she saw Rishab, her face lit up.

"Rishab!"

"Happy birthday, Preeta."

"Thank you."

Then her eyes fell on Karan.

Rishab smiled.

He said, "Remember, I told you at the bookstore that I know Sagar in person. Karan is Sagar. He is a great poet."

Preeta: That's a wonderful surprise.

"There's someone who wanted to wish you personally."

Karan stepped forward.

"Happy birthday, Preeta."

She smiled politely.

"Thank you."

Karan looked at her.

For once, there was no flirtatious line.

No clever joke.

Just genuine affection.

Rishab watched them silently.

Somewhere beneath his smile was a strange mix of happiness and uneasiness.

He had promised Karan he would help him meet the woman he loved.

But the woman Karan loved...

was the same woman who loved Sagar.

And Sagar was standing right there.

Rishab.

As the birthday celebrations began, the song played

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Kasam chaahe le..lo..

Kasam chaahe le..lo

Khuda ki kasam..

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Hamein har ghadi..

aa..rzu hai tumhari..

Hamein har ghadi..

aa..rzu hai tumhari..

Hoti hai kaisi..

sanam bekarari..

Milenge jo tumko to

Milenge jo tumko to

batayenge hum..

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Kasam chaahe le..lo..

Kasam chaahe le..lo..

Khuda ki kasam..

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Bahut pyaar karte hain..

tumko sanam

Rishab watched Preeta smiling among her family and friends.

Karan watched her too.

But Preeta's eyes repeatedly searched for someone else.

Someone she had never seen.

Someone she knew only through letters.

Sagar.

And Rishab knew that sooner or later, the truth behind that name would have to come out.

After the Birthday Party

The birthday celebrations continued late into the evening.

Preeta thanked everyone for making her day special. As the guests gradually began leaving, Karan waited for a moment when he could speak to her alone.

"Preeta."

She turned.

"Yes?"

Karan smiled.

"Would you have dinner with me tomorrow?"

Preeta looked slightly surprised.

"With you?"

"Yes. Just dinner."

She hesitated.

"Karan, why?"

"I want to talk to you."

"About what?"

Karan smiled.

"About something important."

Preeta studied his face. There was something different about him tonight. The usual playful, flirtatious Karan was nowhere to be seen.

"Alright," she finally said. "Where?"

"I'll pick you up."

"No, just tell me the restaurant. I'll come."

Karan smiled.

"Fine. Tomorrow evening."

Preeta nodded.

"Okay."

"Promise?"

"Promise."

Karan's face lit up.

"Then I'll see you tomorrow."

As Preeta walked away, Karan watched her with a smile.

For the first time, he wasn't thinking about how to impress a girl.

He was thinking about how to tell Preeta what was in his heart.

Across the room, Rishab had witnessed the exchange.

His expression became thoughtful.

He had promised Karan that he would help him.

But he also knew something Karan didn't.

Preeta's heart already belonged to Sagar.

And tomorrow, Karan was going to take her out to dinner without knowing that the man she loved was sitting only a few feet away from him.

Part 7 - Dekha Hai Pehli Baar

The evening had finally arrived.

Karan stood before the mirror, adjusting his jacket for what felt like the tenth time.

For a man who had spent years confidently approaching women, he was surprisingly nervous.

His friend watched him with amusement.

"What's wrong with you?"

Karan looked at him.

"Nothing."

"You've changed your shirt twice."

"That is called dressing well."

"You've checked your hair five times."

Karan ignored him.

Tonight was different.

Tonight, he was meeting Preeta.

Not another girl.

Preeta.

The woman who had occupied his thoughts ever since he had first seen her.

The Restaurant

Preeta arrived a few minutes later.

Karan stood up as soon as he saw her.

She was dressed elegantly, and for a moment he looked at her.

Preeta smiled.

"Sorry, am I late?"

"No."

Karan pulled out her chair.

"You look beautiful."

She smiled shyly.

"Thank you."

They sat across from each other.

For a few moments, neither spoke.

Then Karan smiled.

"I don't know why, but I feel like I've known you for a long time."

Preeta laughed.

"That's strange."

"Why?"

"Because we hardly know each other."

"Then let's change that."

Their conversation gradually became easier.

They talked about books, the Udaan Project, their families, and their dreams.

Karan listened to her with genuine interest.

There was no teasing.

No flirting for the sake of flirting.

He wanted to know her.

Later, soft music began playing in the restaurant.

They went to the park; the song played:

[F] Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Aab Ja Ke Aaya Mere

Bechain Dil Ko Karaar

[M] Dilbar Tujhe Milne Ko

Kab Se Tha Main Bekaraar

Ab Ja Ke Aya Mere, Bechain Dil Ko Karaar

Both began to dance.

[F] Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Aab Ja Ke Aaya Mere

Bechain Dil Ko Karaar

[F]Palkein Jhukaun, Tujhe Dil Mein Basaun

Ab Bin Tere Main To, Kahi Chain Na Paau

Palkein Jhukaun, Tujhe Dil Mein Basaun

Ab Bin Tere Main To, Kahi Chain Na Paau

[M] Tu Mera Jigar Hai, Tu Meri Nazar Hai

Tu Meri Aarazu, Tu Mera Hamsafar Hai

[F] Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Aab Ja Ke Aaya Mere

Bechain Dil Ko Karaar

Both of them went boating.

[F] Meri Adaaye, Ye Meri Jawani

Bas Tere Liye Hai, Ye Meri Zindagani

Meri Adaaye, Ye Meri Jawani

Bas Tere Liye Hai, Ye Meri Zindagani

[M] Tu Meri Ghazal Hai, Tu Mera Tarana

Aa Teri Dhadkanon Pe

Likh Du Dil Ka Fasana

[F] Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

[M] Dekha Hai Pehli Baar Jaanam

Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Aab Ja Ke Aaya Mere

Bechain Dil Ko Karaar

[F] Dilbar Tujhe Milne Ko

Kab Se Thi Main Bekarar

Ab Ja Ke Aaya Mere, Bechain Dil Ko Karar

Dekha Hai Pahali Baar

Saajan Ki Aankhon Mein Pyar

Karan looked at Preeta. He dropped Preeta at her place and left.

The song's words seemed to express exactly what he felt.

He had seen countless beautiful women before.

But seeing Preeta had been different.

This wasn't attraction that would disappear the next morning.

This was something that had settled deep inside him.

Preeta noticed him staring.

"What?"

Karan smiled.

"Nothing."

"You've been looking at me for the last few minutes."

"I was thinking."

"About?"

"How strange life is."

Preeta smiled.

"Why?"

"Because I never thought I would meet someone who would make me forget all my usual lines."

She laughed.

"So you admit you usually have lines?"

Karan grinned.

"I used to."

"And now?"

"Now I don't need them."

Preeta looked down, unable to hide her smile.

Luthra House

Later that night, Karan and Rishab returned home together.

Mahesh and Rakhi were in the living room.

Mahesh looked at Karan.

"You seem unusually happy."

Karan smiled.

"Dad, I have something to tell you."

Rakhi immediately became curious.

"What happened?"

Karan took a breath.

"I've decided to settle down."

Everyone stared at him.

Mahesh almost dropped the newspaper in his hand.

"What?"

Karan laughed.

"I've decided to get married."

Rakhi's face lit up.

"Who is the girl?"

Karan smiled.

"Preeta."

Rishab stood quietly beside him.

His expression remained controlled.

But hearing her name still affected him.

Rakhi looked at Rishab.

"You knew?"

Rishab nodded.

"Yes."

Mahesh looked at his younger son.

"Are you serious?"

Karan's voice became firm.

"For the first time in my life, Dad... completely serious."

Mahesh studied his face.

Then smiled.

"If you're certain, we have no objection."

Rakhi hugged him.

"At last!"

Karan laughed.

Rishab watched the happiness around him.

He wanted his brother to be happy.

Even if the happiness he was helping create would eventually break his own heart.

Preeta's House

Karan later brought his family to meet Preeta's family.

The meeting went warmly.

Sarla was impressed by Karan's sincerity.

Mahesh and Rakhi welcomed Preeta into the family immediately.

With both families' blessings, they agreed to the wedding.

Soon, they held the engagement ceremony.

Karan placed the ring on Preeta's finger.

Everyone applauded.

Rishab stood a little distance away.

He smiled.

But his eyes betrayed the pain hidden behind them.

Preeta looked toward him.

For some reason, his expression made her heart ache.

She couldn't understand why.

A Special Gift

A few days later, Rishab came to Karan.

"I have something for you."

Karan looked surprised.

"What?"

Rishab handed him two tickets.

"Pankaj Udhas is performing tomorrow."

Karan's eyes widened.

"You got these?"

"Yes."

He smiled.

"Take Preeta."

Karan hugged him.

"You're the best brother in the world."

Rishab smiled faintly.

"Just make sure she enjoys herself."

"I will."

Pankaj Udhas' Concert

The concert hall was filled with music and applause.

Karan and Preeta sat together, enjoying the performance.

Preeta listened intently as Pankaj Udhas sang a beautiful ghazal.

Karan smiled at her happiness.

Then the announcement came.

The host praised the poet who had written the lyrics being performed.

Karan casually listened.

Until he heard the name.

Rishab Luthra.

Karan froze.

He turned toward the stage.

Then toward Preeta.

"Rishab?"

Preeta looked at him.

"What's wrong?"

Karan couldn't answer.

The poetry.

The sensitivity.

The words that Preeta had fallen in love with.

The man she called Sagar.

It was Rishab.

His own brother.

Karan's face became pale.

He checked Rishab's drawers and found

The letters.

The poetry.

Preeta's mysterious Sagar.

Rishab's unusual attachment to her.

And now this.

Karan's heart sank.

He couldn't tell Preeta.

He couldn't confront Rishab.

He couldn't destroy his brother's happiness.

But he couldn't pretend that he hadn't discovered the truth either.

The rest of the concert passed without him hearing a single word.

The Restaurant

The following evening, Karan and Preeta went out for dinner.

But Preeta immediately noticed that something had changed.

Karan barely spoke.

He wasn't smiling.

He wasn't joking.

He wasn't even looking at her properly.

Preeta finally put down her glass.

"Karan."

"Hmm?"

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Don't lie to me."

Karan forced a smile.

"I'm just tired."

"Tired?"

"Yes."

Preeta studied his face.

"You've been like this since yesterday."

Karan looked away.

"I have a headache."

Preeta's expression softened.

"Should we go home?"

"No."

He stood up.

"I'll be fine."

A few minutes later, Karan excused himself.

"I need some fresh air."

Preeta nodded.

But something inside her told her that he was hiding something.

The Swimming Pool

Karan arrived at the swimming pool area.

He needed to escape.

He couldn't bear the thought of hurting Rishab.

And he couldn't bear the thought of telling Preeta that the man she loved was his brother.

Then he saw someone approaching.

Simar.

She smiled when she saw him.

Karan said, "Hi, sweetheart"

Simar: What's the matter? It seems you are in a romantic mood.

Karan: I am in a good mood.

Both swam.

Karan and Simar talked about their earlier days.

Karan and Simar hugged each other.

However, he was no longer the flirtatious Karan.

The man who never allowed emotions to control him.

He smiled at Simar.

"Maybe I just needed to see an old friend."

Simar laughed.

"Old friend?"

"Don't you remember me?"

"I remember you very well."

Karan deliberately slipped back into his familiar flirtatious manner.

He complimented her.

Teased her.

Made her laugh.

He acted as though nothing had changed.

But inside, he was breaking.

He told himself that this was better.

If he became the old Karan again, perhaps Preeta would hate him.

Perhaps she would stop loving him.

Perhaps Rishab would never have to know that Karan had discovered his secret.

He was willing to sacrifice his own happiness for his brother.

But Karan didn't know one thing.

Preeta had followed him.

She stood at a distance.

And she saw everything.

She saw Karan laughing with Simran.

She saw the flirtatious smile she had never seen from him since they had fallen in love.

She saw him move closer to Simran.

Her eyes filled with tears.

"Karan..."

The word barely escaped her lips.

She had trusted him.

She had believed his love was different.

And now, before her eyes, the man she had agreed to marry had returned to his old ways.

Preeta turned away.

Tears rolled down her cheeks.

She walked away without confronting him.

Karan remained unaware.

He continued pretending to be the old Karan.

Not knowing that his attempt to protect his brother had just broken the heart of the woman he loved.

And somewhere else, Rishab remained completely unaware that the secret he had guarded so carefully was beginning to destroy all three of their lives.

Part 8 - The Truth Behind Sagar

The house was silent.

Preeta stood before the empty photo frame that had once held no photograph.

The same frame she had reserved for Sagar.

The same frame she had believed would one day be completed by the man she loved.

But after her engagement to Karan, a photograph of Karan had been placed inside it.

Tonight, she stared at it through tear-filled eyes.

Memories of the past few days rushed back.

Karan's love.

His promises.

His smiles.

And then what she had seen at the swimming pool.

Karan with Simar

Her heart could no longer accept the contradiction.

With trembling hands, she removed Karan's photograph from the frame.

She stared at it for a moment.

Then-

Crash!

She smashed the photograph against the floor.

The glass shattered.

Preeta broke down.

Her friend rushed toward her.

"Preeta!"

"I trusted him."

Her friend held her shoulders.

"Don't blame yourself."

"How could I have been so wrong?"

"You loved him. Trusting someone you love isn't a mistake."

Preeta wiped her tears.

"He made me believe he loved me."

"Then let him face the consequences of what he did."

Preeta looked at the broken frame.

"I don't want to lose myself because of him."

Her friend held her hand.

"Then don't. You are stronger than this."

Preeta took a deep breath.

For the first time since the previous evening, she found the courage to face Karan.

Meanwhile...

Karan sat alone.

A glass of alcohol was in his hand.

He had never imagined that love could hurt this much.

The man who had once laughed at the idea of heartbreak was now trying to drown his own feelings.

He closed his eyes.

Preeta's face appeared before him.

Her smile.

Her voice.

The moment she had accepted his proposal.

Everything.

His eyes became moist.

He poured himself another drink.

The song played:

Jeeye To Jeeye Kaiiiseeee

Haaai Bin Aaaaapkeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeee Kaiseeee

Haaai Bin Aaaapkeeee

Lagta Nahiiin Dil Kahiiiin

Bin Aaaaaapkeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Haiiii Bin Aaaapkeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Haiiii Bin Aaaaapkeeee

Kaise! kahoon?

Bina Tere

Zindagi Ye Kya Hogi

Kaise Kahoon

Bina Tere

Zindagi Ye Kya Hogi

Jaise Koi Saza

Koi Bad-Dua Hogi

Jaise Koi Saza

Koi Bad-Dua Hogi

Maine Kiya Haiiii

Ye Faislaaaa

Jeena Nahin Haiiii

Tere Binaaaa

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseee

Bin Aaaaapkeeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiiiseee

Haiiiii Bin Aaaapkeeee

Preeta, on the other hand, is lost in her memories with Karan - the romantic moments and unexpected betrayal.

Mujhe Koi

De De Zaher

Hanske Main Pi Luungiii

Mujhe Koi

De De Zaher

Hanske Main Pi Luungiii

Har Dard Seh Luungi

Har Haal Mein Ji Luungiiii

Har Dard Seh Luungi

Har Haal Mein Ji Luungiiiii

Dard-E-Judaayiiii

Sah Na Sakuungiii

Tere Bina Maiiiin

Rehna Sakuungiiii

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseeee

Bin Aapkeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiiiiseee

Haaai Bin Aapkeeee

Dekhke Voh

Mujhe Tera

Palkein Jhuka Denaaaa

Dekhke Voh

Mujhe Tera

Palkein Jhuka Denaaaaa

Yaad Bahut Aayi

Tera Muskara Denaaa

Yaad Bahut Aayi

Tera Muskura Denaaaa

Kaise Bhulaauun

woh Saari Baateiiiin

Woh Meethi Raatein

Woh Mulaaqaateiiiin

Jeeye To Jeeye Kaiseeeee

Bin Aapkeeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeee Kaiseeeee

Haaaai Bin Aapkeeeee

Lagta Nahin Dil Kahin

Bin Aapkeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeye Kaiseeeee

Bin Aapkeeeee

Jeeye To Jeeyeeeee Kaiiiseeeee

Hooo Bin Aaaaapkeeeeee.

The male and female voices seemed to echo the pain inside him.

Karan looked down at the glass.

"I never wanted to hurt you, Preeta."

He swallowed his tears.

"But maybe loving you was the one thing I didn't know how to do."

Karan had drunk so much that he lost consciousness. Simar saw that and took him to her house till recovered.

The Following Evening

Preeta finally met Karan.

Simran was with him.

Karan looked at Preeta and immediately sensed something was wrong.

"Preeta..."

She removed the engagement ring from her finger.

She placed it in his hand.

Then she removed the bangles he had given her.

She placed those beside the ring.

Karan stared at them.

"What's this?"

Preeta's voice trembled.

"The things that were supposed to represent our relationship."

She looked directly into his eyes.

"I am returning them."

Simar looked confused.

"What is the matter?"

Karan remained silent for a moment.

Then he said bitterly,

"I've always been the way I was."

Preeta's eyes filled with tears.

Karan continued.

"Preeta's only mistake was that she believed the lie that I told her."

Simar looked at him.

"What lie?"

Karan looked at Preeta.

"She loves a poet named Sagar."

"I told her that I am her Sagar."

"She believed it."

Preeta's face fell.

"You lied to me?"

"I did."

"I hate you for this."

Karan lowered his eyes.

"It wasn't my idea."

Preeta looked at him sharply.

"What?"

"It was my brother Rishab's idea."

She immediately shook her head.

"That's impossible."

"He can never do something like that."

Karan looked at her.

"If he didn't do it, did I?"

Preeta remained silent.

"I never knew that you loved Sagar."

"I only got to know that Rishab is your Sagar after the concert."

Preeta's eyes widened.

"Rishab?"

Karan nodded.

"He's the most precious person to me."

"I don't want to deprive him of his love."

Preeta couldn't process what she had heard.

She turned around and walked away.

Rishab's Truth

Preeta reached Rishab.

He immediately noticed the pain in her eyes.

"Preeta?"

She confronted Karan.

"Karan told me everything."

Rishab's face went pale.

"He told me that you are Sagar."

Rishab remained silent.

"Is it true?"

His silence was an answer enough.

Preeta's voice broke.

"When you were my Sagar, why did you plant that womanizer, Karan, in my life as Sagar? Why didn't you tell me?"

Rishab slowly reached into his pocket.

He took out the chain Preeta had gifted him.

The customized pendant was still there.

SAGAR.

He placed it in her hand.

"This is the gift you sent to Sagar."

Preeta stared at it.

The memories returned.

The letters.

The photograph she had sent.

The words he had written.

The way he had refused to send his photograph.

And the chain she had gifted to the man she loved.

Everything suddenly made sense.

Tears filled her eyes.

"You..."

Rishab nodded.

"Yes, Preeta."

"I am Sagar."

Preeta's eyes closed as tears rolled down her cheeks.

"The man I wrote to..."

"The man whose poems I loved..."

"The man I waited for..."

"Was you."

Rishab could barely speak.

"I wanted to tell you."

"But I was afraid, as it was he and his parents who lifted me from the orphanage. I was also afraid that once you knew I was Rishab Luthra, you would no longer see Sagar."

Preeta looked at him.

"And the blank frame?"

Rishab's eyes softened.

"You once told me that you had kept a frame waiting for me."

"I remembered every word."

Preeta held the pendant tightly.

For the first time, the mystery was over.

She finally knew the face behind the words.

Preeta: If you had trusted me, I would have accepted you. I'm not concerned about the background or financial status. I only care about good nature.

Rishab was speechless and felt embarrassed.

Luthra House

Karan returned home quietly.

Rishab was waiting for him.

The moment Karan entered, Rishab approached him.

"Karan."

Karan stopped.

"I know what happened."

Rishab's voice was filled with pain.

He slapped Karan and said, "I never expected that you would break Preeta's heart. I was happy for you when you decided to settle with Preeta. When everything was going well, why did you do this to her?"

Karan: I did this for my brother and buddy.

Rishab: These words have no meaning. If I had known I would have to see this day, I wouldn't have befriended you, and I wouldn't have agreed to stay in this house.

Karan: Yes, I am bad. I am very bad, and I've always remained like that. But what did you do? I'm disappointed that you didn't tell me that you loved Preeta. Had you told me, I would have borne that pain. But I wouldn't have come between you two.

Rishab: I could've told you I love Preeta and that I'm her Sagar, but I didn't want to see you in pain. I love you as my younger brother and a buddy as much as you do. I saw genuine love for Preeta in your eyes, and I was happy you finally decided to settle. I have one more favor to ask. Please accept Preeta.

Karan looked at him.

He said, "I can't."

Rishab: You love her.

Karan: Yes, I do.

Rishab: Then why are you doing this?

Karan took a deep breath.

"Bhai, we never treated you like a servant."

"I always treated you as my elder brother."

"And you will always remain my brother."

Rishab's eyes became moist.

Karan continued. He looked directly at Rishab.

"You deserve her."

"Whereas I don't deserve her."

Rishab shook his head.

"Karan..."

"No, Bhai."

"You are my brother. And I want you to be happy."

"Preeta belongs with you."

A Brother's Sacrifice

As the wedding date drew closer, Karan tried to behave normally.

He smiled.

He joked.

He pretended everything was fine.

But one evening, as he stood quietly in the living room, a tear escaped his eye.

Mahesh noticed it.

He walked toward his son.

"You can hide your feelings from the world."

Karan looked at him.

"But not from me."

Mahesh placed a hand on his shoulder.

"I have always fulfilled your demands."

"Not only as a father."

"But as your friend."

"All I ever wanted was to see you happy."

"So tell me."

"What is hurting you?"

Karan could no longer hold himself together.

"Dad..."

His voice trembled.

"It isn't me who will be sitting next to Preeta as her groom."

Mahesh looked at him with concern.

"It will be Rishab."

Mahesh was stunned.

Karan continued through his tears.

"Preeta loves a poet named Sagar."

"And Rishab is her Sagar."

For a moment, Mahesh said nothing.

Then his eyes filled with pride.

He pulled Karan into his arms.

"That's like my son."

"I am proud of you."

Rakhi had heard everything.

She walked toward Karan.

"And I am proud of you too."

Karan looked at her.

Rakhi embraced him.

Mahesh joined them.

Soon Rishab stood there too.

The two brothers looked at each other.

Karan smiled through his tears.

Rishab hugged him tightly.

No rivalry.

No resentment.

Only brotherhood.

A New Beginning

Karan had lost the woman he loved.

But he had gained something more precious.

He had protected the love of the brother who had always been there for him.

From that day forward, Karan became the cupid between Rishab and Preeta.

He helped them overcome the misunderstandings his lie created.

He went to Preeta and said, "Give Rishab a chance. Whatever he did, he did it out of concern for me. Rishab was secretly in love with you, which none of us knew. Don't let him go, or else you will regret it.

And slowly, Preeta's love for Sagar found its true destination in Rishab.

As for Karan...

He finally allowed himself to move forward.

And the person who slowly became the reason for his new beginning was Simar.

The same Simran with whom he had once tried to hide his heartbreak.

This time, however, Karan wasn't pretending.

He was ready to love again.

And somewhere between sacrifice, friendship, and fate, three hearts found three different paths.

Karan brought Preeta to Rishab. Both hugged each other.

Finally, Preeta found her Sagar.

And Karan found a new beginning with Simar.