Author Pov:

Ekansh effortlessly carried Siya in his arms, making his way into the cozy living room, where soft sunlight streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow on everything. It felt like one of those picturesque moments you see in movies, where the hero carries the heroine, and everything seems just a bit magical. As he walked, he could feel her heart beating softly against his chest, and it made him smile.

Siya, with her arms snugly wrapped around Ekansh's neck, gazed up at him with a mix of affection and a hint of mischief in her eyes.

"Suniye ..." she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. Suddenly shy, she let her eyes dart downwards, her cheeks tinged with a delicate blush that only made her more charming.

With a playful glint in his eyes, Ekansh looked down at her and replied, "Aap hi ki toh sune ke liye wapas aya hoon, shrimati ji" His tone was teasing, as if sharing a little secret between the two of them, a playful banter that only they could understand.

"Agar aisa hai toh," Siya replied, trying to muster some authority in her voice, "hume nicche uttariye." She looked straight at him, a determined look on her face.

Ekansh feigned innocence, grinning widely. "Nahi utaru toh kya karengi aap?" His playful challenge hung in the air, inviting her to respond.

"Pehle uttariye, fir batayenge," Siya insisted, her tone now firmer and less playful, a hint of stubbornness creeping in.

With a hearty chuckle, Ekansh decided to oblige, gently setting her back down on her feet. As she stood upright, the first thing she did was adjust her saree, smoothing out any creases before shooting him a mock glare, a playful yet piercing look.

"Kya hua?" Ekansh asked, a look of confusion crossing his face; he couldn't quite figure out why her mood had shifted so suddenly.

"Kuch nahi," she replied, playfully tossing the words over her shoulder as she turned her back to him, her determination suggesting she had something up her sleeve. With that, she started to stride towards the apartment door, her back to him, as if she were on a mission.

"Siya?" he called out, trailing behind her.

"Kaha ja rahi ho?" His curiosity piqued; he couldn't help but wonder what was going through her mind.

"Hume nahi batayenge" Siya replied defiantly, turning her back to him as she began making her way toward the apartment door. Her steps were purposeful, almost as if she was trying to put as much distance between them as possible.

"Everything was fine now, then why is she behaving like this?" His thoughts mix of confusion and desperation, as he couldn't quite understand why she was behaving this way.

"Meri baat toh suno," Ekansh said trailing behind her.

"Hume nahi suna hai," she shot back, her tone sharp like a shard of glass, while her gaze remained fixed ahead, deliberately avoiding eye contact with him.

"But Ardhangini ji," Ekansh pleaded, his heart sinking a little more with each passing second, "Mein toh abhi vapas aaya hoon aur tum mujhe chhor kar ja rahi ho!" He quickened his pace, trying hard to close the gap between them.

"Keh toh aise rahe hain jaise main ne kaha tha aap se hume akela chhor kar jaane ke liye," Siya retorted, her voice strong as she turned a little to glance at him. There was no mistaking the firm resolve in her tone.

"Meri baat toh suniye, Ardhangini ji," he insisted, still on his heels, unwilling to back down just yet.

"Hume nahi suni aapki koi baat," Siya replied coolly, swinging the door open and stepping out of the apartment, with Ekansh right behind her.

"Mein toh bas ek hafte ke liye hi gaya tha!" He continued to reason, trying to convey just how important she was to him.

At those words, Siya froze mid-stride and turned back, her gaze piercing into him, causing Ekansh to halt abruptly, caught off guard by the sudden halt in her movement.

"Agar aisa hi tha toh wapas aane ki avashyakta hi kya thi? Nahi aana chahiye tha aapko!" she told him, fire flickering in her eyes.

Ekansh blinked, momentarily taken aback by his wife's sudden out burst. But then he couldn't help but notice how beautifully fierce she looked in that moment, her cheeks slightly flushed and her lips pursed.

Suddenly, his mind wandered, dulled by her beauty, completely forgetting the gravity of their argument.

On the flip side, Siya was entirely unaware of the distracting thoughts swirling in her husband's mind. Instead, she felt a wave of sadness wash over her.

She couldn't shake the feeling that he didn't care about her emotions at all, which only added to her frustration.

"Sahi kaha tha Amrita baisa ne," she murmured, her voice trembling slightly, "Aap nishthur hain, kisi ki parwah nahi hain aapko." Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, highlighting her distress.

"N-Nis-Nis..th-thur," Ekansh stammered, struggling to pronounce the word she had just thrown at him like a dart.

The pressure of the moment was building, and he was failing miserably to keep up.

"Nishthur kehte hain use!" Siya responded, the sharpness in her voice still palpable as she pointedly accused him.

"Mere matlab usi se hai," he shot back with a hint of annoyance now, partly frustrated that he couldn't articulate what he wanted to say and partly flustered by the entire situation.

But then came the silent question echoing in his mind: "But what does it even mean?" He glanced at Siya, seeing her clearly upset, anger radiating from her. He quickly dismissed the thought of asking her, recognizing that now wasn't the time for a vocabulary lesson.

"Ander chale?" Ekansh asked, his gaze locked on Siya as if she were the only thing in the world that mattered at that moment.

"Hum nahi jayenge..." Siya huffed, pouting adorably and deliberately turning her head away from him, wanting to show her displeasure.

They stood in the hallway of their apartment building, which had that eerie silence that only an empty space could hold, a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos of their lives. It was just the two of them in this vast place, and all that ambiance seemed to amplify the playful tension in the air.

Ekansh couldn't help but take a few steps closer to her, intrigued by the way her lips formed that stubborn pout.

This time, however, she didn't budge an inch or even glance at him. He flashed a sly smile at her, feeling a mischievous spark ignite within him.

Leaning down, he lowered his voice to a playful whisper near her ear, "I warned you."

Siya's eyes widened in surprise, caught completely off guard by how close he had gotten. The warmth of his breath sent a tiny shiver down her spine, and before she could muster up a single word, he scooped her up into his arms in one swift motion.

"Aah!" she gasped in shock, her heart racing as she looked up at Ekansh, disbelief written all over her face.

"Nichhe uttariye hume abhi!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with annoyance and indignation. The mix of anger and embarrassment gave her cheeks a rosy hue.

"No, Biwi," he teased, grinning from ear to ear.

"First, we're going to have a serious talk in a very
husband-and-wife-like way." With that, he strode confidently toward his bedroom, holding her effortlessly in his arms as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

"Aap bahut jyada Dusht hai!" Siya exclaimed with a mix of annoyance and disbelief, her eyes narrowing as she attempted to wriggle free from his arms. She was glaring up at him, a fiery determination in her gaze that showed she wasn't about to back down easily.

"Jaisa bhi hoon, tumhara hoon, biwi," he replied with a cheeky grin that tugged at the corners of his mouth, clearly enjoying the playful banter. With an air of authority, he began to lead her inside his bedroom, creating an atmosphere that felt both charged and intimate.

Siya was about to make her feelings known, she wasn't angry with him. She was just punishing him for leaving her alone.

"Hume aap se kisi prakar ki koi baat nahi karni hai," she started, her voice firm but faltering as he gently placed her down on the edge of his bed.

There was a flurry of emotions washing over her, and she wasn't quite ready for what was happening.

"Chalo ab baat karte hain," he murmured softly, leaning in closer, his voice low and inviting as he watched her with mischievous eyes.

Siya was trying her best to process everything, but all her thoughts were jumbled. She instinctively tried to inch back toward the bed, unsure of what to make of this situation.

"H-hume na...nahi karni-" she stammered, her tone heated, a blush creeping up her cheeks as she grappled with her racing heart. Why had he brought her to his bedroom? The question buzzed around her mind like an unruly bee, refusing to settle.

"Aise kaise baat nahi karenge?" Ekansh teased, edging closer as he delicately reached down to touch her payal, spinning it playfully between his fingers. The warmth of his touch sent shivers up her spine, and she couldn't help but shrink her leg back, pulling it up to her chest as a wave of nerves crashed over her.

Her toes curled instinctively, and she felt a nervous flutter in her stomach.

Ekansh find it amousing after seeing her reaction, clearly delighted to see her flustered, and he decided to tease her more by slowly removing his sleek black coat, hanging it over a nearby chair like it was all part of some grand plan.

Siya's heart raced even faster now, each beat loud in her ears. What was he doing?

"Hey, Devi Maiya! Ye kya kar rahe hai!" Siya exclaimed internally, her mind racing with a million thoughts, exploring every possible scenario-except for the one that was actually unfolding right in front of her.

Ekansh, on the other hand, couldn't help but chuckle as he watched her cheeks flush bright red, almost resembling a ripe tomato. There was something delightfully entertaining about her flustered expression, and he savored the moment.

Once he finished adjusting his coat, he stood up, drawing Siya's attention back to him. It was as if he was putting on a show just for her! With a playful smirk, he slowly loosened his tie, letting it slide off and tossed it aside. Then, he nonchalantly removed his handcuffs, placing them back in the nightstand drawer next to the bed.

"Kaise lajja heen pati diye hai aap ne hume, Devi Maiya! Inhe tanik bhi laaj nahi aa rahi hai humare saamne is prakar apne vastron ko utarate huye?" Siya thought to herself, her heart racing as she stole a quick glance at Ekansh. But as she watched him unbutton his shirt, her nerves got the best of her, and she couldn't help but whisper, "A-aap es...pra-prakar s..se apne v-vastron ko kyu utaar rahe hai...?"

"Sone ke liye," Ekansh replied with a teasing tone, clearly enjoying how flustered he was making her.

"Ji!" Siya gasped, her eyes widening in surprise as she turned to fully face her husband.

"Ji," he chuckled, finally settling onto the bed, his gaze now fully fixed on her. The laughter in his eyes was unmistakable; he was revelling in the moment.

"Ye-yah... a.aap hu-hume aise kyu dekh r..rahe hai...?" Siya stammered, her cheeks turning an even deeper shade of red as the shyness washed over her.

"Kyu aap nahi chahti ki mein aapko dekhu?" Ekansh shot back playfully, his tone light yet challenging.

There was hardly any distance between them, as Siya sat in a classic bride-like posture, her knees tucked close to her chest and hands resting on them. She kept her gaze lowered, hiding her flustered expression behind a curtain of bashfulness, clearly nervous but unable to resist the magnetic pull of his attention.

Meanwhile, Ekansh stayed glued in front of her, reveling in every subtle shift in her expressions, cherishing her innocence and vulnerability.

"Humne aisa toh nahi kaha..." Siya whispered softly, her voice barely above a murmur as she kept her eyes downcast, struggling to maintain her composure.

As Ekansh heard her, his heart skipped a beat. The tenderness in her voice caught him off guard, and he felt a warmth blossom within him.

"Mujhse abhi gussa ho?" he asked gently, hoping to ease the tension.

"Hmm," Siya nodded slightly, still avoiding his gaze, a hint of defiance mixed with shyness in her response.

The room fell into a comfortable silence, punctuated only by the soft rhythm of their breathing. Ekansh continued to regard her with a soft gaze, his eyes full of warmth and amusement, while Siya kept her gaze lowered, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks.

After a few moments of quiet, unsure of how to break the spell, Siya finally mustered the courage to look up at

Ekansh and softly asked, "Aap kuch kahenge nahi?" Her voice was gentle, almost like a whisper, laced with curiosity and a touch of vulnerability forgetting the punishment she was thinking of giving him.

"Nahi," Ekansh replied, his gaze fixed intently on her, searching for any sign of what she truly felt.

As their eyes locked, a subtle smile crept onto her lips, bringing a warmth to the moment.

"Hum sach mein aap se guss nahi the," she said softly, a hint of playfulness in her voice. It was clear she wanted to assure him that there were no hard feelings between them.

"Jaanta hoon," he replied, a knowing smile playing on his face, as if he had a secret she wasn't quite in on.

"Fir is prakar -" she began to say, but before she could finish her thought, he interjected with a question that took her by surprise.

"Date per chalengi mere sath?" he asked, his tone light but his eyes filled with curiosity.

"Ji?" Siya exclaimed, her heart racing at the unexpected invitation. Memories of their last little movie date flashed through her mind, making her cheeks flush a fiery red all over again. How could she forget that moment?

"Fikr mat kijiye, es baar proper date hogi," Ekansh said with a chuckle, clearly sensing her flustered state, and knowing exactly what thoughts were racing through her mind.

"Ji?" Siya asked again, surprised and confused about what he meant by a 'proper' date. What could he possibly have in mind this time?

The moment she said 'Ji,' Ekansh couldn't help but smile. He always had a soft spot for how she said that word; it was like music to his ears.

"Give me your hand," he said gently, his voice low and inviting.

"Huh?" Siya looked at her husband with a puzzled expression, as if trying to decode his cryptic words.

Trying to stifle a laugh at her bemused face, he gently took her hand into his, the warmth of his touch sending a familiar flutter through her.

As he held her hand, she returned his gaze, still trying to figure out what he was up to. With a tender touch, he started playing with the bangles on her wrist, mesmerized by their delicate jingling as they danced with the movement.

"Tumhe yaad hai, kaise mein tumhe yah shadi karke aise hi yaha is apartment mein laya tha?" Ekansh finally said, a hint of nostalgia creeping into his tone. He looked down at her bangles, and for a moment, a sad look crossed his face as memories flooded back. Thoughts of the day he had accidentally hurt her wrist, the tears that followed, and the guilt that weighed heavily on him surfaced once more.

"Ji," Siya whispered, memories of that poignant moment surfacing.

"Per aap abhi yah kyu puch rahe hai?" she asked softly, her voice gentle and soothing, realizing they had started talking about a potential date, but now the conversation had veered into deeper territory.

"Siya?" Ekansh whispered her name again, his eyes locked onto hers, searching for an answer.

"Ji?" she replied in a whisper, her heart racing as she felt the warmth and tenderness of his grip surrounding her hand.

"Tum mujhse abhi bhi us din ke liye gussa ho?" he asked, his eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that made her heart race.

She understood exactly what he meant, and as he gently clasped her hand, a sense of warmth surged through her. Meeting his penetrating gaze, she couldn't help but smile.

"Ab hum aapse gussa nahi hai," she replied, her voice laced with sweetness, punctuated by a gentle, reassuring smile that brightened her face.

"Sach mein?" he probed once more, a glimmer of hope dancing in his eyes.

"Ji," Siya nodded, her smile widening as if to erase any lingering tension.

"Toh kya hum dono fir Hus-mera matlab, Pati-patni ki tarah reh sakte hain?" he questioned, the hope in his voice palpable. His eyes sparkled with the thought, and she could feel the warmth of his affection washing over her.

"Ji, aap ka kya artn tha isse?" Siya inquired, a bit puzzled by the abrupt change in their conversation.

"Mera matlab tha ki kya mein aur tum, jaise hote hain na woh... husband jaise rehte hain! Mein tumhari sari wishes complete karu, aur ek romantic husband ki tarah tumhare sath rahu, aur ek husband ki sari responsibilities Puri karu, aur woh sab kuch ho ek husband karta hai," Ekansh's words tumbled out in a rush. He was trying his best to articulate the idea that had been swirling around in his mind, even though he himself wasn't entirely sure how to phrase it.

"What nonsense am I spouting!" he scolded himself internally, feeling a slight blush creep onto his cheeks as he sensed his own vulnerability in the moment.

To his utter surprise, Siya erupted into giggles, the sound like music to his ears. He had never witnessed this playful side of her before.

"What?" he asked, genuinely curious about what had amused her so.

"Aap bahut pyare lagte hain, aise," Siya managed to say between her delightful laughter, her eyes sparkling with joy.

"Ye aap keh rahi hain, Ardhangini ji?" Ekansh asked, now wearing a grin that reflected his growing comfort in her presence.

"Ji, Pati parmeshwar ji hum keh rahe hain," Siya responded, her tone teasing yet affectionate, her gaze unwavering.

"Toh bataiye, kya jawab hai aapka?" Ekansh pressed, eager for her response, leaning in as if to bridge any distance that might have been left between them.

"Agar na kaha toh fir aap kya karenge?" Siya shot back playfully, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Ekansh, with a gentle air, removed his hand from hers, taking a small step back, ready to leave but wearing a gentle smile that belied his playful demeanor.

"Toh fir mein aapki haan ka intezaar karunga," he said, deliberately turning to walk away toward the bedroom door.

"Aur...." Siya whispered, her voice barely above a murmur. Her eyes followed his retreating back, urging him to stop. He paused, his heart racing with curiosity.

"Aur agar humne haan... kaha... toh?" Siya added, her voice soft and inviting, filled with a hint of excitement and trepidation.

Ekansh turned around, a playful smirk forming as he made his way back to her side, climbing onto the bed once more.

He looked at her intently, his gaze holding a mix of affection and love, making her pulse race with a nervous thrill.

Before Siya could even gather her thoughts, she found herself enveloped in a warm embrace.

"Mat Puchiye, Ardhangini ji," he murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it held an intimate urgency that sent butterflies fluttering in her stomach.

Surprised but not reluctant, Siya reveled in the closeness, reciprocating his embrace. It felt like home, wrapped up in his arms, where everything else faded away into the background.

As they finally broke away from each other, he looked deeply into her eyes, curiosity dancing across his features.

"Toh mein aap ki haan samjhu?" he asked, a playful spark in his voice.

She nodded, a shy smile creeping onto her face.

"Ji," she replied, feeling a rush of warmth spread through her.

His expression shifted slightly as he leaned in closer, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Toh hum dono aaj se aur abhi se ek pati aur patni ki tarah reh sakte hai?" he questioned, a hint of eagerness evident in his tone.

Siya couldn't help but giggle at his enthusiasm.

"Ji, reh sakte hai," she answered, finding it amusing that her husband was so eager to solidify a bond that they already shared.

"Ek baar fir soch lijiye, Ardhangini ji, kyuki iske baad aap inkaar nahi kar sakti," Ekansh warned, amusement lacing his words as ideas began swirling in his mind.

Siya, feeling more confident, shot back with a grin, "Ji, humne soch liya hai." She was certain now that her husband was genuinely happy about their relationship.

"Toh fir thik hai, baad mein maat boliyega. Maine warn nahi kiya tha," he said playfully, leaning in just a bit closer, making her instinctively lean back against the bed's headboard.

"A-aap ky-kya kar rahe hai?" she stammered, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

He didn't answer her question but instead closed the distance between them, leaving her slightly breathless as she found herself pressed between the bed and him. Her heart raced, and though she felt nervous, she was also filled with a curious anticipation about what he would do next.

Ekansh watched her expression intently, a smile creeping onto his face. In a sultry tone that sent shivers up her spine, he whispered, "Toh fir kal date per chale as official husband and wife?" His words lingered in the air, making her eyes widen as she processed his intentions behind the questions.

Reacting to his teasing nature, she playfully pushed him back with a gentle shove.

"Bahut dusht hai aap!" she exclaimed, her voice a mix of feigned annoyance and genuine affection. Without another word, she hurriedly slipped off the bed, her cheeks flushed and her heart racing, and made her way out of the bedroom, the soft jingle of her anklets echoing down the hallway, a perfect soundtrack to her embarrassment.

Ekansh chuckled to himself, delighting in her reaction. He reclined on the bed, staring up at the ceiling, a contented sigh escaping his lips. It wasn't exhaustion that caused his sigh, but rather a profound sense of relief and happiness. He was back where he belonged, and every ounce of his being was alive simply from being near her-the reason his heart raced so fiercely.

"Ardhangini ji... Why am I feeling this strange kind of flutter inside me?" he pondered silently, momentarily shaking his head to dispel the distracting thoughts before he resolved to go after her.

"I'll figure out these feelings later, maybe even consult the doctor about this odd sensation," he muttered to himself, "but right now, I need to be around my wife. It's the only place I feel truly alive." And with that determination, he left his room in search of Siya, eager to bask once more in the glow of her presence.

........

"Damn, Juhi Aunty! These cupcakes are absolutely amazing!" Trisha exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with delight as she devoured one cupcake after another, savoring each bite like it was the best thing she'd ever tasted.

"Aram se, Trisha baby," Juhi Aunty replied, a warm smile spreading across her face as she watched both Trisha and Amrita happily indulging in the sweet treats. It was such a comforting sight, those two girls enjoying each other's company and a plateful of deliciousness.

Trisha paused for a moment, a cupcake halfway to her mouth, and asked, "Hey, I thought you were going to bring Siya bhabhi with you?" She took a moment to relish the chocolate frosting on her fingers before licking them clean.

"Really? You're asking like you don't already know the answer," Amrita chimed in, playfully narrowing her eyes at Trisha as she took a sip from her cup.

"Okay, you got me there," Trisha admitted with a nod, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

"So, what do you think? How long until we become aunts?" Trisha tossed out the question lightheartedly, but it caught Amrita off guard as she abruptly choked on her drink.

"Cough! Cough! Cough!" Amrita sputtered, her eyes watering as she glared at Trisha, both amused and annoyed.

"Do you really have to say that right now?" Amrita managed to retort in an irritated tone, still coughing a bit as she swatted her hand in Trisha's direction, trying to shoo her away.

"It was just an innocent question!" Trisha pouted, crossing her arms and pretending to sulk.

"You're so mean, Basanti!"

"Shut up! And don't forget, Ekansh bhai doesn't even know the 'R' of romance, so just forget about it for a few years!" Amrita said, half-amused and half-exasperated, giving Trisha a playful glare for ruining her moment of refreshment.

"I didn't even think about that," Trisha exclaimed, her expression like that of a little boy who had just lost his favorite candy, wide-eyed and slightly defeated.

"Well, you need some brain cells for that kind of thinking, and you seem a little short on those," Amrita chuckled, shaking her head at Trisha's antics.

"Hey!" Trisha exclaimed, playfully pouting after hearing Amrita's teasing remark, but she couldn't help but laugh along with her friend.

...

It was past midnight, and the mansion was enveloped in a deep, eerie silence. Not a single sound could be heard as everything lay in slumber. In the dimly lit dining room, a woman dressed in a simple yet elegant suit sat alone at the table, waiting patiently for someone. The food in front of her had long gone cold, untouched as if it had been there forever.

"Ma'am, I really don't think sir will be coming tonight. Why don't you eat something and get some sleep?" the head butler suggested, his concern evident in his tone as he glanced over at the woman still waiting, her expression tinged with sadness.

"It's alright, I can wait," she replied, forcing a faint smile as she sat there, her heart heavy but resolute, unwilling to give up on her vigil.

The butler shook his head slightly, knowing this was a familiar scene-a part of their daily routine-one that she wouldn't budge from, no matter how much he urged her to take care of herself.

"As you wish, Iria Ma'am," he said gently before quietly stepping out of the dining room, leaving her to the solitude that wrapped around her like a thick blanket.

Iria leaned back in her chair, allowing her eyes to drift toward the glass mirror walls that surrounded her. Her reflection stared back, but it felt foreign, almost like looking at someone else's face rather than her own.

"Humari aankhon ke alwa kuch Humara nahi hai..." she whispered to herself, a hint of bitterness lacing her voice. A mocking smile played at her lips as she added, "Aur humari awaaz bhi..." The irony of her situation hit hard-as if her identity had been erased along with her own features the day Arsalan had insisted she take on Siya's likeness.

As time slipped into oblivion, Iria's weary body succumbed to sleep, remaining slumped over the dining table where dreams and reality intertwined in an atmosphere thick with unresolved emotions.

Meanwhile, outside the mansion, a sleek black car pulled up, its engine humming before falling silent. A man stepped out, clad in an impeccably tailored suit that fit him like a second skin. With every step he took towards the mansion, he exuded an aura of control and intensity, but tonight, that aura was marred by the storm of anger brewing within him.

Once inside, he wasted no time. He strode purposefully towards his room, fury etched across his handsome features.

"I'm going to kill you, Ekansh!" Arsalan growled under his breath, the weight of the morning's news pressing heavily on his shoulders like an unshakeable burden.

His company had suffered a devastating blow-a financial disaster that felt like a punch to the gut. To add insult to injury, he had just learned that the income tax department was now scrutinizing him for tax evasion, an accusation he had been blissfully ignorant of until the notice had arrived that morning. And if that weren't enough, his series of covert dealings in the underworld had also made headlines, dragging his name through the mud in the most public of ways.

As he ascended the stairs, his mind raced with thoughts of how Ekansh's return to India seemed to be orchestrated solely to dismantle everything he had built. It felt personal, a vendetta against him that had thrown his life into chaos when all he had wanted was to get ahead. With each angry step, he plotted his revenge, determination blazing in his heart as he steeled himself for what lay ahead.

After stepping into his bedroom, he tossed his clothes aside with a sense of urgency, feeling the weight of his emotions pressing down on him. The need for distraction drove him toward the shower, where the warm water cascaded over his skin, washing away not just the day's grime but also a hint of the turmoil brewing in his heart.

Once he dried off and slipped into something more comfortable, he headed straight back to his room. There, his gaze fell on Siya's portrait hanging on the wall, a work of art that felt more like a haunting reminder of everything he had lost. In that moment, a deep sense of hopelessness enveloped him, making it almost hard to breathe.

"Hume aur kitna tadpayengi Kainat?" he murmured softly to the portrait, his voice barely above a whisper, tinged with a mix of longing and despair. It was as though he was seeking an answer from the painted image, hoping it would somehow bridge the gap between his heart and the universe that felt increasingly indifferent to his suffering.

"Aap ko paane ke liye hum kitna kuch kar rahe hai," he continued, his fingers lightly brushing the surface of the frame as if trying to connect with Siya on a deeper level.

"Hume sparsh karne ka adhikar kewal humare pati ko hai."

The memory of her words cut through him like a knife. The manipulation he had attempted now felt like a grave mistake, filling him with self-loathing. How had he let it come to this?

"Why Kainat?" he bit out, his voice rising with frustration as he smashed his fist against a delicate vase on the table, sending shards scattering across the floor. "Why are you forcing me to snatch you away from him through force?" His heart raced, pounding against his chest like a caged animal desperate for freedom.

"I want you to come to me willingly, and yet you are doing everything that makes me angry enough to snatch you and cage you!" His eyes blazed with a mix of rage and desperation as he glanced back at Siya's portrait, not wanting to destroy it but feeling a reckless urge to do something-anything-to change his fate. Deciding that drowning his sorrows in a drink might help, he stormed off to grab a bottle of alcohol.

When he reached for the bottle, and as he looked for a glass, he didn't find any.

That little discovery only fueled his already simmering anger. With a growl, he decided to head downstairs-not just to find the glass but also to find something to eat. He was ravenous, not just for food but for a distraction from the chaotic thoughts that swirled in his mind.

Navigating through the dimly lit hallway, he made his way toward the dining room, his senses heightened. Something didn't sit right with him. His instincts kicked in, and his eyes narrowed when he noticed light spilling from the kitchen. It was far too late for anyone to be there, especially with the servants off duty at this hour. Each slow, deliberate step added to his tension as he approached the dining room.

As he pushed open the door, his heart momentarily skipped a beat. There in the flickering light sat a figure slumped over the dining table, her head resting on crossed arms.

"Iria?" he thought, recognizing the tousled hair that trailed across her face. She appeared to be asleep, her lips slightly parted, breathing softly and unaware of his presence.

"I have told her not to wait for me, and yet she never listens," he thought, irritation mixing with an odd fondness. Staring down at Iria, he was flooded with memories from the day they first met.

"Nikkah kar lijiye humse..." a soft, trembling voice echoed in his mind, reminding him of her vulnerability and courage.

With a stoic expression, he approached her and, with utmost care, lifted her into his arms. Her eyes stirred slightly as he moved, but she remained deeply asleep, drawing closer to the warmth he provided without fully waking.

"Ajeeb ladki hai," he mused, nostalgia filling him as he recalled their first encounter.

Carrying Iria to her room, Arsalan noticed how she instinctively snuggled closer to him, seeking the warmth he radiated even in her sleep. It was almost heartwarming amidst the chaos of their reality.

"Ek baar fir soch lijiye, Iria, kyuki iske baad aap mukar nahi sakti hai," Arsalan warned, his voice steady as he locked his gaze on her. Iria stood there, trembling with fear, wearing his coat that practically enveloped her smaller frame. She clutched it tightly, almost as if it were a protective shield. Meanwhile, his white shirt was splattered with dried blood, the sleeves rolled up in a casual yet ominous manner. The contrast between their worlds was stark-his confidence on display as he faced the frightened girl in front of him.

"Hu... humne s... soch liya h... hain," she replied, her voice barely a whisper as it trembled through the air, thick with tension.

As Arsalan gently entered her room, he carefully placed Iria on her bed, ensuring that she was comfortable. The weight of the day seemed to slip away as he tenderly pulled the blanket over her, tucking it in with the gentleness one would reserve for a child. He wanted her to feel safe, to chase away the shadows of fear that hovered around her.

After making sure she was cozy under the soft blanket, he took a step back, allowing himself one last look at her peaceful, sleeping form.

He couldn't shake off his own words echoing in his mind, "Don't expect love in this relationship." He recalled telling her that, a reminder of the boundaries he had set, the walls he had built around his heart.

Even now, standing on the precipice of vulnerability, he felt ready to leave her. But he could see it in her eyes; she didn't want that. That's why he wouldn't push her; he wouldn't force her to commit beyond her comfort.

Turning away, he quietly walked back to his own room, raking his fingers through his hair as he did.

"I should really get some sleep," he muttered under his breath, almost trying to convince himself that resting was all he needed.

.........

Meanwhile, Ekansh was lost in a dream when the soft sound of Siya's bhajans drifted through the air, rousing him. He found a sleepy smile creeping onto his lips as he stirred and tried to shake off the remnants of sleep.

"I missed my alarm clock..." he mumbled lazily, his voice still thick with morning fog as he blinked his eyes open.

The blanket slipped from his chest as he got up, sitting on the edge of the bed and rubbing his eyes. Glancing at the clock, he noted it was just 4:48 in the morning-still early enough to enjoy some peace before the day kicked in.

"Maybe I should do some exercise," he contemplated, pushing his body off the bed and stretching lazily before setting off to start his day.

In the meantime, Siya knelt before her Devi Maiya, the fragrant incense swirled around her in a comforting embrace, creating a serene atmosphere in the room. Her heart swelled with affection as she gazed at the lovingly adorned idol, a sense of peace washing over her.

"Aaj hum bahut khush hain, Devi Maiya, kyunki Bhairav ji ab wapas aa gaye hain!" Siya exclaimed, her voice bubbling with joy. She felt a lightness in her spirit as she reflected on the events leading up to this moment.

"aur aapko pata hai, Devi Maiya?" Siya continued, her voice dropping to a soft whisper, reflecting a hint of shyness.

"Woh chahte hain ki hum apne rishte ko ek moka aur de." A soft blush crept onto her cheeks as memories of Ekansh teasing her danced in her mind, reminding her of their playful banter that often left her flustered.

"Devi Maiya," she said, a gentle smile spreading across her face as she spoke earnestly, "Humare Bhairav ji per apna ashirwad sada rakhiyega."

With those words, she picked up the arti thali, her heart brimming with warmth, ready to spread the positivity throughout her home.

In contrast to the vibrant energy of her puja, the apartment felt unusually quiet. The only two occupants were Siya and Ekansh; he had insisted on a peaceful atmosphere, desiring no distractions while spending time with her.

As she wandered through the hallway, the delicate chime of her anklets accompanied her every step, filling the air with melodic sounds that danced like light on the walls. The rhythm was almost hypnotic, and Siya couldn't help but smile to herself, feeling connected to the very essence of femininity and grace.

Meanwhile, just emerging from his workout session, Ekansh paused in his tracks as the enchanting tinkling of Siya's anklets reached his ears. A smile unfurled on his lips, and curiosity piqued, he turned on his heel, drawn toward the sound like a moth to flame. There she was-her form illuminated by the subtle, warm light of the room, deeply engrossed in her own world.

Leaning against the wall with his arms crossed and a soft grin on his face, he watched her for a moment, appreciating the way she moved with such intention and devotion. She was blissfully unaware of his presence, absorbed in her prayers, her lips whispering chants.

That was until she caught sight of him; her gaze widening in disbelief as she realized he had been watching the entire time but the moment her eyes went down on his body.

"Hey! Devi Maiya!!!" she exclaimed in shock, her voice a mixture of surprise and embarrassment and turned her back at him.

Ekansh blinked at her reaction, momentarily thrown off guard, before he glanced down and understood the source of her startled exclamation.

A chuckle slipped from his lips as he observed her cheeks transform into a vibrant shade of red-she was utterly adorable.

"How long will it take for her to look at me without turning the brightest shade of tomato?" he pondered with playful amusement as he stepped closer, making his way down the hallway toward her.

Reaching behind her, he stealthily approached, leaning in near her ear, his warm breath sending delightful shivers down her spine.

"Abhi tak mujhe aise dekhne ki adat to aapko daal leni chahiye thi, Ardhangini ji," he murmured, his voice low and teasing, causing her heart to race with anxiety and excitement.

Flustered, Siya bit her lip, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks.

"Hume laaj atti hai, hum aapki tarah lajja heen nahi hain," she retorted, pouting adorably as she set the arti thali down on the table, ready to face him. But before she could speak another word, he leaned in closer, his breath brushing against her ear, his intimate words wrapping around her like a soft blanket.

"Per ye lajjaa Heen pati toh aapka hi hai aur apne pati ko aise dekhne mein kaisi, Shram?" he whispered, drawing closer, his lips almost brushing against her neck.

Siya felt her ears burn a bright shade of red. She turned around only to find his face mere inches away from hers. Her eyes widened in surprise as she instinctively faced his broad chest, taking an involuntary step back. But before she could put more distance between them, Ekansh swiftly wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer with a playful tug.

"Kahi nahi ja rahi hai aap," he murmured, his voice soft as he hugged her tightly, ensuring she remained snug against him.

Looking up into his eyes, she questioned, "Ye kya kar rahe hain aap?" Trying her hardest to avoid staring at his chest, which was practically tantalizing right in front of her.

"Prem kar raha hoon," he replied, a mischievous smirk dancing on his lips, his confidence radiating an undeniable charm.

"Ji, Es prakar se kon Prem karta hai?" she countered, her voice laced with a mix of confusion and intrigue, trying to process the boldness of the situation.

"Toh fir kaise karte hain?" he quizzed back, genuinely curious about what she thought love was.

Her gaze fell to the floor, a hint of embarrassment rising within her as she whispered, "Hume nahi pata hain..." Her innocence was palpable, leaving room for curiosity to flourish in the air between them.

With a gentle motion, he removed one hand from her waist and raised his finger under her chin, tilting her face upwards so their eyes could lock in a firm gaze.

"Then let me teach you," he said softly, his voice dripping with intimacy as he held her gaze. Siya felt her heart skip a beat, her lips slightly parted, caught between wanting to ask him what he meant by that and the thrill of the moment.

Only for him to interrupt her, Ekansh leaned in closer and softly whispered, "The first step of love is marking you as mine..." With those words hanging in the air, he slowly pulled her in nearer, the atmosphere thick with anticipation.

As he leaned in, his breath tickled her neck, making her heart race at an alarming rate, each beat loud enough that she was certain he could hear it too. There was something electric about the moment, and Siya felt butterflies take flight in her stomach, an unfamiliar but thrilling sensation coursing through her.

Ekansh couldn't resist the urge to look up at her, a playful smirk curling on his lips, betraying the delight he felt in this intimate moment. Turning his attention back to her neck, he lowered his head and began to gently nibble on that sensitive spot, eliciting a soft mewl from her that resonated in the warm air between them.

"Umm..." Siya let out a sound that caught her completely off guard, a rush of heat flooding her cheeks as she realized the nature of such a candid and unguarded response. It was a sound she'd never intended to make, and the embarrassment washed over her like a wave, leaving her momentarily speechless. She couldn't believe she had let that slip out.

Encouraged by her voice, Ekansh continued his tender assault, kissing her neck with increasing affection, leaving a trail of delicate pecks that felt like soft whispers on her skin. Each kiss was a gentle exploration, and he reveled in the way she responded, the way her body seemed to lean into him as if urging him on.

"Umm... ah-" Siya's breath hitched, a mix of pleasure and confusion colliding within her as she struggled to suppress the unanticipated sounds escaping her lips. In a rush of embarrassment, she instinctively placed her hand over her mouth, hoping to muffle whatever might follow. It was strange and exhilarating all at once, and she didn't know how to handle the sensations swirling within her.

Noticing her expression, Ekansh's gaze softened. He wanted her to feel at ease, so he reached up slowly, lifting her hand away from her mouth with the gentleness of a summer breeze. Siya looked at him, her eyes wide with a mix of embarrassment and vulnerability as their gazes locked for a brief moment.

"I want to hear your voice," he said softly, leaning in closer to her, their breaths mingling in the short distance between them. It was a tender request, one filled with sincerity, but he could sense her hesitation. His heart raced as he felt the chemistry crackling between them, yet he understood that this moment was about more than just desire; he needed to respect her boundaries.

With a teasing slowness, he let his fingers glide down towards her waist, drawing her closer to him. Her eyes widened in surprise as she met his gaze, feeling the electric tension that hung between them.

As he leaned in closer to her ear, his breath warm against her skin, he murmured, "Look what your sweet little voice has done to me, Honey." His words dripped with seduction, sending a delicious shiver racing down her spine.

From the moment he had heard that soft gasp escape her lips, he felt an undeniable surge of desire. That tiny sound had ignited something primal within him, and now he was reeling from the pleasurable tightness constricting him in his pants. The heat pooling in his core only intensified as he continued to lose himself in this heady moment.

"Hu-hum kuch-" Siya stammered, her mind racing as she struggled to find the right words. She could hardly form a coherent thought, let alone express the whirlwind of emotions brewing inside her. But just as she began to speak, he gently pressed a finger against her lips.

"Shh... darling," he murmured, his voice low and velvet-like, "or I might just lose all control over myself in response to that beautiful, melodious voice of yours." With that, he leaned in once more, placing soft, lingering kisses along her collarbone. Each gentle touch sent her heart racing and made her knees wobble as she fought to remain steady on her feet.

Finally, he reached the spot he had been yearning to claim, and with a delicate flick of his tongue, he began to leave his mark. His teeth grazed her skin just enough to send a thrill of sensation coursing through her.

"Grasp!" she gasped, biting down on her lip as she tried not to utter a sound. She was determined to contain the pleasure bubbling within her, even as he continued to tease her with slow, deliberate kisses.

When he finally pulled back, he was greeted by the sight of her flushed face-her cheeks a rosy pink, a telltale sign of the effect he had on her. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, the world around them faded away, leaving just the two of them suspended in that intoxicating tension.

Trying to keep his own emotions in check, he leaned closer to her ear, his breath warm against her skin. "First lesson done, let's dive into another one tonight," he murmured softly, punctuating his words with a gentle kiss on the spot where he had marked her.

Siya, still reeling from the shock of what had just transpired, found herself rooted to the spot. Her knees felt weak, and a rush of warmth flooded her cheeks as she struggled to process the surge of feelings coursing through her heart. It was a wave of emotions she had never experienced before, and with each passing second, her pulse quickened, leaving her breathless.

Meanwhile, Ekansh was in turmoil of his own. The sound of her voice echoed in his head, intensifying his desire and leaving him in a state of heightened arousal. Frustrated by the effect she had on him, he groaned inwardly, grappling with his desire as he headed toward his bathroom, muttering under his breath, "A cold shower is the only thing that could possibly help me now."

The mental image of Siya refusing to leave his mind only fueled his frustration, making the situation all the more unbearable.

"I swear I hate this fucking brain!" he cursed vehemently, slamming the bathroom door behind him, seeking solace from the whirlwind of sensations that threatened to overwhelm him.

While, Siya stood there, still in a state of surprise and disbelief over the whirlwind of emotions that had consumed her in just a matter of minutes.

Slowly, she raised her hand and gently touched the tender spot where Ekansh had marked her, feeling a mixture of warmth and confusion.

"Is prakar se koi kisi ko katata hai kya?" she murmured softly, her voice barely above a whisper, trying to make sense of why Ekansh would choose such an intimate spot to claim her.

Yet, the tingling sensation left behind by his touch lingered, making her heart race with both excitement and a hint of nervousness about what their next lesson might entail. "Bada hi vichitra sa tarika tha prem sikhne ka..." she said quietly, almost to herself, reflecting on how unconventional their introduction to love felt.

With a determined shake of her head, she resolved to brush off the overwhelming feelings of the moment and carry on with her day.

Yet, despite her efforts to distract herself, she couldn't shake the vivid memory of Ekansh's touch or the heat that radiated from her cheeks, proving that the experience was not something she could easily forget.

"Hume inse dur hi rehna chahiye..." She murmured with embracement.

_________________________