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Isha's POV
The soft glow of the noon sun filtered through the blinds of my cabin, casting long shadows over the sleek desk that had been mine for years. This space, once filled with the constant hum of activity, now felt eerily silent. Papers lay scattered across the surface, a pending file open before me, but my mind had drifted far from the numbers and reports.
I had said yes.
I had agreed to marry Shivansh.
The decision had come from my heart, a choice I did not regret, yet the reality of it all loomed over me in ways I hadn't anticipated. I had spent years building myself, carving my name in the corporate world, becoming the youngest Chartered Accountant to make a mark at twenty-two-an age where many were still struggling to clear their exams. And now, I was expected to leave it all behind.
Jaipur.
The word itself felt foreign, distant. It wasn't just another city; it was another life. A life where I would no longer be just Isha, the CA, the independent woman who had built her own empire, but Isha, Shivansh's wife-the daughter-in-law of a royal family. My fingers absently tapped against the desk. Could I really do this?
So many questions swirled in my mind, questions I couldn't ask anyone. If I voiced them, would that mean I was doubting my decision? I wasn't. I wanted this. I wanted him. But I was also afraid. Afraid of the unknown, of leaving behind my parents, my friends, my firm, my life. Would I be able to adjust? Would they accept me for who I was, a woman who had never stepped into a kitchen, who didn't know the first thing about the traditional responsibilities of a wife? Would I make mistakes? Would I disappoint them?
And then, there was the biggest question of all-
Would I be able to be the Queen of Jaipur?
The weight of that title pressed against my chest, suffocating and unfamiliar. I had spent years mastering numbers, analyzing financial reports, and making corporate decisions-but being a queen? That was a world I knew nothing about. It wasn't just about marrying Shivansh; it was about stepping into a legacy, into a role that required grace, diplomacy, and strength of a different kind. Could I handle it? Could I truly fit into a world so far removed from my own?
My heart clenched as another thought surfaced-how would I survive without my family? My mother, who had been my guiding light, who always knew what to say, what to do, how to hold me when I felt lost. My father, whose silent strength had been my pillar. My brother, my partner in crime, the one person who could make me laugh even on my worst days. And my friends-Arav, Ritvik bhaiya, Prisha, Ishika-their constant presence had been a source of comfort. Could I really leave all of that behind?
For twenty-two years, Delhi had been my world. Every street, every memory, every late-night ice cream run with my friends, every success, every failure-it was all here. The thought of waking up in an entirely different place, in a palace, surrounded by people I barely knew, made my stomach churn. Would it ever feel like home? Would I ever feel like I belonged?
And what about the future?
Would I be able to keep my identity, or would I become just another woman lost in the shadows of tradition? Would I still be the Isha who had fought her way to success, or would I become someone I no longer recognized?
A lump formed in my throat as I leaned back in my chair, my gaze drifting to the ceiling. It was overwhelming, this uncertainty, this fear of the unknown. But amidst all the fear, there was also something else-hope.
Hope that somehow, I would find my place. That Shivansh would be there, that he would understand, that he would stand by me. That I would not be alone in this journey. That maybe, just maybe, this new life wouldn't mean losing everything, but rather, gaining something different-something equally meaningful.
I wiped the corners of my eyes before any tears could fall. Change was terrifying, but it was also inevitable. And deep down, I knew-I had never been one to run from a challenge.
Jaipur was not the end of my story. It was simply the beginning of a new chapter. And no matter how many doubts lingered in the depths of my heart, I knew one thing for certain-
I was ready to take that step.
I was lost in thought when her cabin door suddenly opened. Prisha rushed inside, tears streaming down her face. She was sobbing uncontrollably, her body shaking as she tried to speak but failed. I immediately got up from my chair, concerned about her washing over me.
"Prisha! What happened?" I asked, my voice filled with worry. But Prisha didn't respond. She just kept crying, her hands trembling as she clutched her chest.
I quickly led her to the couch, sitting her down gently. I grabbed a glass of water and handed it to Prisha, but she refused to drink, only hugging me tightly. It was the first time Prisha had cried this hard in front of me like this, and it pained me to see her like this, she is so soft hearted, she is so pure to cry like this.
Before I could say anything more, the cabin door burst open again. This time, Arav entered, almost breathless, like he had been running. His face was tense, his brows furrowed, and his eyes-there was a tear in them, though he was trying hard to mask it. The moment he saw Prisha, a flicker of relief crossed his face, as if he had just found something he had lost.
Then he asked me, "Why prisha is crying this hard."
I, however, was not about to let this go. "This question should be mine to ask, Arav. What did you do to her? She's been crying like this for ten minutes since she met you! What the hell happened?"
Arav looked tense, guilt evident on his face. Before he could answer, Prisha sniffled and muttered, "He fought with me in the cafe."
My eyes widened in anger. Today, Prisha had taken a leave from work to go on a date with Arav. But instead of coming back happy, she was in tears?
"Bhai, kya kar diya?" Arav muttered under his breath, realizing the storm that was about to come.
I had had enough. I was a little pushed away from Prisha, my hands going straight to her heels. Before Arav could react, I threw one at him, hitting him square in the stomach.
"What the f*ck are you doing, woman?!" Arav groaned, doubling over. "Let me explain before you start throwing your damn sandals at me again! If you hit me one more time, I swear I'll call the police and have you jailed for assault."
I, still glaring at him, crossed my arms. "Fine. Speak."
Arav took a deep breath and hesitated before saying, "I wasn't fighting with her... I was just telling her that my parents are coming to Delhi next week. And I want to introduce her to them and tell them we want to get married."
I blinked. "That's why she's crying?" I turned to Prisha. "You're crying because he wants to tell his parents about your relationship?"
Before Prisha could answer, arav said in low and concern voice, "She's on her period."
In periods her mood swings are on high, she can cry any moment and laugh at another. Period prisha is something we should stay a little away.
My mind clicked everything together at once. The overreaction, the heightened emotions-it all made sense now. I sighed and gestured for arav to take Prisha a sit beside her to calm her down.
As they start talking, my eyes landed on Prisha's left hand, where a ring shimmered on her finger. A small smile came on my lips as memories resurfaced.
Two months ago, right after returning from Jaipur after playing Holi, Arav had proposed to Prisha at the airport. It had been unexpected and chaotic, but it was Prisha's dream to be proposed to at an airport. That day, she had said yes with happy tears.
For the past two months, Arav had been buried in work, balancing his job while preparing to start his own company. He wanted to build something from scratch, just like Isha had done. But now, he had finally found the time to focus on his personal life.
I, still a little irritated at him for making Prisha cry, softened when she saw the way he looked at her. "Okay, fine. I guess we're having fun now. But you better not make her cry again, Arav."
Arav grinned, rubbing the spot where my heel had hit him. "Noted. No more crying."
The mood in the room had shifted. The tension melted away, replaced by laughter and lighthearted teasing. For a moment, I forgot about the overwhelming emotions she had been dealing with earlier. Right now, i was simply enjoying the moment with her best friends.
As I sat there watching Arav and Prisha playfully bickering, teasing each other with laughter-filled threats, I couldn't help but smile. They had that kind of bond where love and mischief coexisted so naturally. Their laughter filled the room, their eyes sparkling with unspoken affection, and for a moment, I felt a pang of nostalgia-an ache for something I didn't know I needed to feel.
My thoughts drifted. Over the past two months, so much had changed. My relationships with everyone in Shivansh's family had evolved in ways I never expected. I never imagined myself blending into that world, but somehow, the bonds had strengthened beyond what I could have anticipated. And the most surprising of all-my equation with Shivansh's father.
It still felt surreal that we got along so well. Initially, I had thought he was just a strict, authoritative man who lived by royal decorum, but with time, I realized he was so much more. He had a playful side, a warmth hidden behind his regal presence, and an unexpected fondness for me. It started subtly-small conversations here and there, a few unexpected calls, and then, his visits to Delhi.
He always had an excuse. Some 'important' work, some 'urgent' meeting, but I knew better. He came to see me. And I... I looked forward to it. We spent the whole day together, playing board games, having meals, and simply talking about everything and nothing. He made me feel welcomed, like I belonged.
A particular memory flashed in my mind-the last time he visited. We had ended up going to an amusement park.
Flashback - Amusement Park
"Are you sure about this?" I asked, looking at him with a skeptical expression as we stood in front of the roller coaster.
Shivansh's father-who had insisted I call him 'Baba sa' just like he calls dadu sa, instead of the formal address-crossed his arms and grinned at me. "Isha, don't underestimate me. I'm young at heart. Besides, I'm not the one who's scared, am I?"
I gasped. "Excuse me! I am not scared!"
"Then let's go," he said, walking confidently towards the ride entrance.
I turned to Ishika, who was barely containing her laughter. "Isha, you do look scared, though."
"Oh, shut up." I rolled my eyes, grabbing her hand and dragging her along.
The ride was a complete disaster-or at least, that's what I thought at first. The moment we were strapped in, and the coaster climbed up that steep incline, I regretted all my life decisions.
"I can't do this," I muttered under my breath, gripping the safety bar.
I heard baba sa chuckling beside me. "Too late to back out now, beta."
The next thing I knew, we were plummeting down at full speed. I screamed. Ishika screamed louder. And baba sa? He laughed. The man actually laughed, enjoying every second of the terror I was experiencing.
When the ride finally stopped, I staggered out of my seat, trying to steady my breath.
"I am never doing that again," I announced.
"That was amazing!" Ishika said, eyes wide with excitement. "Let's go again!"
I turned to baba sa, hoping he would say no, but the sparkle in his eyes told me otherwise. "Let's do it!" he agreed enthusiastically.
I groaned. "Why do I even associate with you two?"
We spent the rest of the day hopping from one ride to another, playing silly carnival games, and eating more junk food than we probably should have. At one point, we took part in a water gun challenge, where baba sa and I teamed up against Ishika.
"Okay, on the count of three," I whispered. "One... two-" Before I could say three, baba sa fired his water gun at Ishika.
"Hey! You cheated!" Ishika protested, dodging behind a barrel.
"All's fair in love and war," he said with a smirk.
Laughing, I joined in, splashing water everywhere. We made such a scene that people started gathering around to watch. For the first time in a while, I felt carefree, as if I belonged somewhere without trying too hard.
By the time we left the amusement park, we were drenched, exhausted, and still laughing at Ishika's complaints about how unfair we had been.
Present
A small smile tugged at my lips as I came back to the present. That day had been one of my happiest, and I would always cherish it. But it wasn't just baba sa.
My relationships with Dhruv bhaiyuu, Avi, yes avi cause he asks me to him by his name not with bhai attach to his name, he made a deal with me, i'll call him by his name and he will calls me bhabhi sa but then I asks him toh calls me by my name when elders is not around and finally he accept that ant their Veer bhai sa had also strengthened.
Veer bhai sa with his calm and composed nature, had become someone I could have deep conversations with. He was the one who often reminded me to take a step back and breathe when things got overwhelming.
Avi was the complete opposite-energetic, always ready to tease and lighten the mood. He made sure I never took life too seriously, always finding ways to bring out my playful side.
And Dhruv... bhaiyu was the protective one, always watching out for me in ways I didn't even realize. He was like an elder brother I never had, subtly making sure I was comfortable and happy in my new reality.
Things had changed. A lot. And somewhere between all these changes, I had found myself forming bonds I never expected. Bonds that felt real. Bonds that made me feel like, maybe, just maybe, I was truly becoming a part of their family.
I glanced back at Arav and Prisha, still lost in their own world. Love wasn't just about two people. It was about families, about friendships, about the people who stood by you even when you didn't ask them to.
And for the first time in weeks, I felt a little less alone.
Maybe... just maybe... I would be okay after all.
Bug in evening, again those thoughts came as I sat in my office, my fingers mindlessly tracing the rim of my juice glass as I stared at the city skyline outside my window. Delhi had always been home-its chaos, its energy, its familiar streets that carried countless memories. But soon, I would be leaving all this behind. Not just Delhi, but this office, my firm, my independence as I knew it.
I leaned back in my chair, letting out a soft sigh. Marriage. The word itself sent a thrill through me, a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Shivansh and I had come a long way from being at odds with each other to becoming everything to one another. He wasn't just the man I loved; he was my safe place, my unexpected home. The thought of spending my life with him filled my heart with warmth, but at the same time, the reality of change loomed over me.
The ring on my finger gleamed under the soft office light, a symbol of a future that was no longer just mine alone. I smiled to myself, thinking about him. His presence had a way of grounding me, of making me believe that no matter where I went, as long as he was by my side, I would be fine.
But leaving Delhi, leaving my firm... Would I still be the same Isha? I had built this place from scratch, poured my blood, sweat, and soul into it. It wasn't just a company; it was a part of my identity. Would moving to Jaipur mean leaving this behind too? Would I still have my own space, my own dreams outside the grand palace walls?
My thoughts were interrupted by a soft knock on my office door. Ishika peeked in, her usual mischievous grin in place. "Lost in thought again?" she teased, stepping inside and plopping onto the chair opposite me.
I smiled, shaking my head. "Just... thinking about everything. The wedding, the move, leaving all of this behind."
She studied me for a moment before smirking. "You're nervous."
"A little," I admitted. "But I'm happy too. Shivansh... he means the world to me, Ishika."
Her expression softened. "Then that's all that matters. Everything else? You'll figure it out. And besides, do you really think Shivansh would ever let you give up your dreams? That man worships you. He might be all royal and intimidating to the world, but with you? He's just a lovestruck fool."
I laughed, warmth spreading in my chest at her words. It was true. Shivansh always made sure I knew that my dreams mattered just as much as his.
Before Ishika could tease me further, my phone buzzed with a message. I glanced at the screen and felt my heart skip a bit.
Ansh: "Thinking about me?"
A knowing smile tugged at my lips. He always had a way of reading me, even from miles away.
Me: "Maybe. Missing me?"
A knowing smile tugged at my lips. He always had a way of reading me, even from miles away.
Ansh: "Always."
I sighed happily, the nervous knots in my stomach easing just a little. Yes, things were changing. My life was about to take a new turn, but as long as I had Shivansh by my side, I knew everything would be just fine.
But before Ishika could tease me further, my cabin door suddenly swung open with force, making both of us jump.
I sighed happily, the nervous knots in my stomach easing just a little. Yes, things were changing. My life was about to take a new turn, but as long as I had Shivansh by my side, I knew everything would be just fine.
Ishika lounged on the couch, scrolling through her phone. The atmosphere was calm, the only sounds being the occasional rustling of papers and the clicking of my pen against my desk. However, the peace didn't last long.
The door to the cabin suddenly burst open, making both I and Ishika jump. Standing at the entrance were Dhruv bhaiyu and Aviyansh, each holding bouquet in their hands. Dhruv bhaiyu carried one, while Avi had two. Both of them wore their usual mischievous grins, making it evident that they had come with some sort of plan in mind.
"What the-" I started, but dhruv bhaiyu was already striding towards me, handing me the bouquet he carried.
Avi followed suit, handing one bouquet to Ishika and the other to me. We both exchanged curious glances looking at bouquet.
"What's this?" i asked, narrowing my eyes at the pages.
Before they could get an answer, Avi smirked. "Nothing much, just some work documents. But don't worry about that now. We're here for something else."
Ishika looked up, her brows furrowed. "Okay... then why are you both here all of a sudden?"
Dhruv casually shrugged. "Well, I had some work nearby, and Avi was missing you, so we decided to drop by."
I shot Avi a knowing look. "Is that so?"
"Daydreaming about my brother again, huh?" he teased, walking in without waiting for an invitation.
"Shut up," I muttered, locking my phone and placing it face-down on the table.
Dhruv plopped down on the couch opposite me, stretching lazily. "So, when are you moving to Jaipur? Seems like you and Dad have already formed a secret club."
I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the small smile on my lips. "baba sa is amazing, Dhruv. I never thought we'd get along so well."
"Yeah, well, he never flew to another city every week just to have breakfast with me," Avi said with mock jealousy. "You've got him wrapped around your little finger, Isha."
"It's not like that," I said, shaking my head. "It's just... surprising. I never expected things to change this much. Not just with him, but with all of you."
Dhruv gave me a knowing look. "You were always part of our family, Isha. Now, it's just official."
His words made my chest tighten with emotion. It was true. In the past two months, my bond with Shivansh's family had grown in ways I never imagined. From his father's weekly visits to the way Veer and Avi had started treating me like their own sister.
And then there was Shivansh himself. The man who had once been nothing more than an arrogant, distant presence in my life was now someone I couldn't imagine my world without.
Ishika and I exchanged bewildered looks. "But still What the hell are you two doing here? If you want to meet then meet us at home. Why here? You know about media." I asked, placing my phone face down on the desk, trying to school my features into neutrality.
Dhruv bhaiyu's gaze instantly darted to my phone. His lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Ohh, I see. Someone is changing her question and someone was blushing before we entered. Were you by any chance texting my dear shiv?" His tone was dripping with mischief.
I shot him a glare, but Ishika, of course, had to jump in. "Oh, she totally was! The moment your name popped up on her screen, she had that dreamy look on her face."
I groaned, trying to snatch my phone, but Avi was faster. He picked it up and gasped exaggeratedly. "Tsk, tsk. 'Missing me? Always.' Wow, I didn't know my bhai sa ould be this romantic!"
Dhruv bhaiyu chuckled. "I'd say he's learning from the best."
I narrowed my eyes at them. "Okay, enough. Give me my phone back."
Avi held it out of reach. "Say, 'Avi, you're the best brother-in-law ever, and I will never doubt your wisdom.'"
"Not happening."
"Then no phone."
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Ishika was practically rolling with laughter at this point. I lunged forward, finally snatching my phone back, and playfully smacked Avi's arm. "Now, tell me, what are you two doing here?"
Avi finally dropped his teasing and plopped onto the couch. "We actually had some work in Delhi, but then we thought, why not visit our future Bhabhi sa? Bade papa visit you all the time, so it's our turn now."
I felt warmth spread in my chest at his words. My bond with Shivansh's family had grown so much over the past two months. The fact that Dhruv bhaiyu and Avi had come all the way just to meet me meant a lot.
Ishika, who had been silently enjoying the scene, finally joined in. "Oh come on, isha, let us see the message thread! Maybe we can give you some love advice."
I groaned, finally snatching my phone back. "You guys are the worst. I'll tell shivansh and then he will give you guyss extra work."
Avi looked at me in horror and give me my phone back" Don't tell bhai sa anything warna toh he will not let me leave office for two days. "
Dhruv grinned. "he will definitely." Then, his expression turned mischievous again. "Anyway, we're going out for dinner, and you're coming with us."
"I have work," i protested.
"Nope, not an excuse," Avi interjected. "If you don't come, we'll just buy food and eat it right in front of you without offering a single bite."
I rolled my eyes, but a small smile played on her lips. "Fine, fine. Where are we going?"
Dhruv and Avi exchanged glances before Dhruv said, "Let's make it a group thing. Call Prisha, Aarav, and Arjun. The more, the merrier."
"Go where?" I asked, frowning.
"Dinner And don't even try to say no. Veer bhai sa and fitwik bhai is already waiting."
I let out a small laugh, shaking my head. Maybe I was leaving behind a part of my life, but I was also stepping into something new-something warm, something strong, something that felt like home.
Author's POV
Moments later, the entire group was gathered downstairs, where Ranveer and Riteik were already waiting, looking impatient.
"Took you guys long enough," he grumbled, handing car keys to both Dhruv and Aviyansh. "Here, one's for you, and the other is for you."
They divided into cars, with Dhruv went taking Aarav, and prisha.
while Aviyansh went to took Arjun.
Meanwhile, Ranveer, Ritwik , isha and ishika went in Isha car, Ranveer was driving and they both were sitting on the backseat. They already start their journey to restaurant.
Isha settled into her own little world in the backseat, scrolling through her phone and smiling at her messages from shivansh and laughing at something ishika is saying.
Seeing this, Ranveer smirked and, without warning, dialed Shivansh's number on video call. As soon as the call connected, he turned the camera toward isha, who was happily chatting and laughing.
"Look at this, bro," Ranveer announced. "Your girl is having way too much fun without you."
Shivansh's face appeared on the screen, his eyes immediately softening as he saw isha. "Is she now?"
Isha, hearing his voice, turned and gasped. "bhai sa!" she scolded, trying to grab the phone.
Shivansh chuckled. "Hi, love. Having fun?"
Isha huffed, shooting a glare at Ranveer before nodding. "I was until someone decided to ambush me."
Ranveer, Ritwik and ishika laughed as the teasing continued, while Shivansh watched with an amused yet fond expression.
"Alright, enjoy yourself," Shivansh said, his voice warm. "But don't let them bully you too much."
Isha smiled. "I can handle them."
As the night went on, the group enjoyed their dinner, teasing, laughing, and making new memories. It was a night of joy, friendship, and love-one that isha would cherish forever.
Shivansh calls Dhruv to just see Isha again and again. Dhruv turned the camera on Isha, who was mid-laugh, cheeks flushed with happiness, unaware that Shivansh's gaze had softened watching her.
As the night deepened, none of them wanted it to end. "Let's crash at our place," Ishika suggested, turning to Ritwik. "We've got enough space."
And just like that, their spontaneous outing turned into a cozy night-in at Ishika and Ritwik's house, filled with pillows, late-night snacks, soft giggles, and stories that stretched into the early morning.
The restaurant buzzed with the soft clinking of cutlery and the mellow hum of conversations, but in one corner booth, chaos reigned-in the most joyful way possible. It was a table full of warmth, laughter, and relentless teasing. Isha, Ishika, Dhruv, Aviyansh, Arjun, Aarav, Prisha, Ranveer, and Ritwik were all gathered around, plates filled with sizzling appetizers and chilled soft drinks in hand.
Isha was sitting between Dhruv and Ishika, her smile barely fading for more than a few seconds. She leaned forward slightly, glancing around with a confused pout. "But seriously... why isn't Shivansh here?" she asked, her voice soft but clearly carrying that tinge of longing.
Immediately, five heads turned to her with identical expressions of mock exasperation.
"Oh my God, again?" Ishika groaned, throwing a napkin at her.
"you literally just to talk to him in car," Prisha chimed in, dramatically placing a hand over her heart. "Let the man breathe, Isha."
Aviyansh laughed. "You two just had breakfast together yesterday. And lunch the day before that. And-"
"Dinner the day before that," Dhruv completed, pointing his fork at her like it was a mic. "And now you want him at our group night too?"
"Can't help it, and that was no video call. Okay not in front of each other. " Isha muttered with a shy grin, sipping her drink. "He's nice to look at."
Ritwik chuckled. "Yeah, yeah. But this is our time, no shivansh allowed. Tonight's about us."
"She's addicted, guys," Arjun said, mock whispering to Aarav. "We need to do an intervention soon."
"Or just keep her away from her phone for a few hours," Aarav added with a smirk.
Laughter echoed around the table. The food arrived in waves-paneer tikka, malai chaap, naan baskets, sizzlers-and everyone dug in with the kind of hunger that only comes from long workdays and shared excitement.
By the time dessert rolled around, Dhruv slammed his spoon down theatrically. "Okay, enough food. Time for step two."
"Step two?" prisha asked, raising a brow.
"Yup," Ishika announced, standing up. "We're crashing at our place tonight. Games, music, gossip, maybe a pillow fight if we're feeling dramatic."
"Wait, you're inviting us to your house?" Prisha asked, pretending to look suspicious. "Is it clean though?"
"Clean enough," Ritwik shrugged. "Just don't open my closet. Or her fridge."
The night bloomed into playful chaos at Ishika and Ritwik's apartment. Blankets and pillows were tossed around the living room, fairy lights were plugged in, and snacks were stacked on the coffee table. Someone played lo-fi music through the Bluetooth speaker, and someone else brought out a stack of board games and cards.
Isha had changed into her pastel pajamas, sitting cross-legged on the floor, her hair tied in a messy bun. Ishika, beside her, had declared war during UNO. "Reverse! Draw two! And... another draw two, because I'm feeling spicy," she announced with glee.
"Yeh cheating hai!" Aviyansh cried, flopping back on the carpet in defeat.
"Cry harder," Ishika said, blowing him a kiss.
"I'm telling Shivansh you bullied me," he warned dramatically.
"Do that and I'll tell him about that accidental dent, you did in his car," Dhruv said casually, smirking at him.
Abhiyansh immediately sat up straight. "No you won't."
"Watch me."
Roars of laughter followed.
Later, they split into teams for charades-boys vs girls. Arjun's ridiculous acting of "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" had everyone in tears. Aarav kept guessing "DDLJ" for every single movie. And when it was Isha's turn, she tried to act out "Titanic" only for Ritwik to shout, "Shipwreck! Heartbreak! Global warming?"
The clock blinked 1:17 AM, but the apartment felt like it was still early evening. Blankets were scattered like confetti, snacks half-finished, and a warm golden glow from fairy lights made everything feel cozier than it should on a random weekday night.
Isha was still giggling from their last round of Uno, where Ishika had mercilessly declared war on everyone's cards. Dhruv lounged with his phone in hand, occasionally glancing at Isha as she threw her head back in laughter.
Suddenly, his phone buzzed again.
"Yeh banda chhod hi nahi raha mujhe," Dhruv muttered, showing his screen to Ishika. "Shivansh. Again."
Isha looked up immediately. "He called you?"
Dhruv grinned. "Three times. And now-" he tapped on Video Call Accept, "-he's here."
Shivansh's face appeared on the screen, relaxed in his dimly lit room, hair slightly messy and his eyes narrowing at the noise. "What are you all doing?"
Everyone froze.
Then chaos.
"Ohhh! He's here!" Ishika yelped.
"Hi bhai sa," Aviyansh said with a sheepish grin.
"Sorry for the noise, Shivansh," Ritwik said, barely hiding a smirk.
Isha flushed, immediately ducking her head. "We weren't being that loud..."
Shivansh chuckled softly. "I wasn't complaining. I was trying to sleep and Dhruv's was calling me like crazy."
Ishika leaned in to the camera, dramatic as always. "Don't act like you didn't want to be here. You miss us."
"Specifically me," she added with a wink.
Shivansh smirked. "Sure, Ishika."
"Hey!" Isha narrowed her eyes.
"I mean-sure, Isha."
"Too late," she muttered, but couldn't hide her smile.
As everyone settled back into the floor again, Isha suddenly sat up, eyes lighting up. "Wait, guys. I have an idea."
"Oh no," Ishika groaned. "The last time she had an idea, we all ended up getting drenched in a Holi color war in our pajamas."
"This one's better," Isha said, eyes twinkling. "It's been so long since we went on a trip. A real one. Not Jaipur, not Delhi. I mean... outside India. Just us. No work, no stress, no drama-just fun."
Everyone paused.
Then a wave of voices came in all at once.
"YES."
"PLEASE."
"I was literally dreaming of a beach yesterday."
"Oh, can we go shopping somewhere expensive?"
"I'll even shave my head," Ishika declared, tossing her messy bun over her shoulder. "New me, new country."
"You always say that and end up just trimming your bangs," Dhruv laughed.
"Shut up, Dhruv."
"I'm down," Arjun said, leaning back. "Let's do this."
Isha turned to the screen. "Shivansh, what about you?"
He blinked, caught off-guard for just a second. "You want me to come?"
Before she could answer, Ishika jumped in. "Obviously. You're like, half the reason she'll enjoy the trip. Or cry if you're not there."
Shivansh's lips curled slightly. "In that case... yeah. I'm in."
"Okay but where?" Aviyansh asked.
Everyone started shouting different places.
"Bali!"
"No, Greece!"
"Japan!"
Then Shivansh said quietly, "Paris."
The room fell silent.
Everyone turned to him.
"You serious?" Isha asked, eyes wide.
He shrugged. "Why not? City of love, lights, and overpriced coffee."
Ishika squealed. "YESSS."
Ritwik and Arjun fist-bumped. "Let's do it."
And just like that, the plan was sealed.
By the time the clock struck 2 AM, they were exhausted, sprawled across mattresses, sofas, and beanbags. A quiet settled in, only broken by occasional giggles and someone munching on leftover chips.
Isha lay on the floor beside Prisha and Ishika, staring at the ceiling. "This was perfect," she whispered.
Ritwik, from the other side of the room, added, "We should do this more often."
Arjun stretched. "Minus the part where I lost at every single game, yeah."
"And without Shivansh," Dhruv said, teasingly. "This is our version of paradise."
Isha rolled her eyes but smiled. "Fine. Just this once."
Later that night, the apartment finally quieted down. The girls curled up together in Ishika's room-pillows piled up, stories whispered in the dark.
Ranveer and Aviyansh took the guest room, still laughing at memes and Shivansh's reactions, while Ritwik and Arjun passed out mid-conversation in the living room. Dhruv take Ritwik room.
But in the silence, Isha lay awake just a little longer, her thoughts drifting to Paris... and the way Shivansh had said yes without hesitation.
The next morning arrived with soft sunlight filtering through the windows. The apartment looked like a battlefield of blankets and empty soda bottles
The soft orange sky was just beginning to peek behind the sleepy clouds of early morning as the black SUV rolled into the road. Shivansh stepped out quietly, dressed in a hoodie and black jeans, a duffel slung over one shoulder and phone in hand.
He dialed.
"Aviyansh?" His voice was low, rough from the cold air. "Gate khol. I'm outside."
( open the door,)
A few moments later, Dhruv opened the main door, blinking away his sleep.
"bhai sa, aao yha kya kar rhaee ho?" he whispered in shock.
( Bhai sa, what are you doing here?)
Shivansh nodded, lips twitching. "Chup karo aur ab hato yha se."
( Shut up and move aside.)
Aviyansh stepped aside, still half-asleep. Shivansh crept in, the house dark and still, lit only by the faint glow of fairy lights still running from last night's chaos.
He passed the living room, spotting empty juice glasses and scattered blankets. Typical.
They were all asleep. Peacefully, comfortably, with no idea what storm had just walked in.
He found Dhruv snoring softly in the ritwik room.
"Room service?" Shivansh whispered as he dropped his bag and slipped under the blanket beside him.
Dhruv blinked awake, confused. "Kya-what the hell?"
He turned, squinting. "SHIVANSH?"
"Shhh!" Shivansh chuckled. "Sone de. I'll explain in the morning."
( let me sleep.)
Dhruv laughed silently and patted his back like a pillow. "Psycho."
The house started stirring around ten-thirty.
Ritwik was the first one up, walking into the living room yawning, followed byAarav, Arjun and Ranveer. Aviyansh popped his head out from the guest room, hair looking like a bird's nest, blinking like he'd forgotten what planet he was on.
"Why is it so bright..." he muttered.
They all started picking up empty mugs and putting the cushions back. As they moved around, Dhruv walked out from the guest room, stretching.
Behind him-Shivansh.
The room froze.
"Tu sach mein aa gaya?" Ranveer blinked.
( you came here really.)
"Yup," Shivansh said, sliding his hoodie off. "Couldn't stay away."
"Two months. That's a record," Aviyansh muttered.
They weren't shocked-this was Shivansh after all. If Isha was somewhere, he wouldn't stay away for long. Still, they smirked knowingly at each other. Isha is going to freak.
"Okay, teams," Dhruv clapped. "Cleaning vs Breakfast. Go."
Shivansh and Veer headed to the kitchen. The others grabbed brooms and cloths and started wiping, vacuuming, and collecting the garbage.
Ishika was the first to zombie-walk into the living room, followed by prisha hair wild, oversized T-shirts and socks dragging.
Isha came last, rubbing her eyes, her bun half undone. She threw herself on the couch without looking, right next to someone.
Someone warm.
Someone wearing cologne she knew.
"Good morning," came a familiar voice.
Isha froze.
She looked up-and met his eyes.
"S-SHIVANSH?" she gasped.
He smirked, casual. "Morning love."
She blinked. "No... no, I'm dreaming. I'm dreaming!"
Then she launched herself into his arms.
He caught her mid-hug as she squealed in disbelief, "YOU'RE REALLY HERE?!"
"I had to come," he said softly, holding her tight. "You didn't leave me much choice."
Her loud excitement woke up the others properly.
Ishika groaned, "What happened-oh my God."
Prisha laughed, "Well, there goes her sleepy mood."
Everyone burst into laughter, teasing her, while she refused to let go of Shivansh.
"Before everything," Dhruv said, "Let's eat before our pancakes become crackers."
They gathered around the table, where Shivansh and Veer had somehow whipped up a decent spread-pancakes stacked high, sandwiches, juice, and coffee.
They all sat, talking in between bites, laughing and catching up. Shivansh sat beside Isha, and every now and then, she'd just look at him like he was a dream she hadn't fully woken up from.
As they lounged on the carpet after breakfast, freshened up and energized, Dhruv pulled out his iPad.
"Okay, planning time. Paris, right?"
"YESSSS!" came a chorus of voices.
"We need to finalize the date and assign responsibilities," he said, typing away.
"I'll handle all the flight and travel bookings," Dhruv declared. "Me and aviyansh, we'll take care of the kids-you people."
"Excuse me?" prisha threw a pillow at him.
"Too late. Responsibility claimed," Aviyansh grinned.
"We already have two apartments in Paris," Shivansh added casually, "and a bungalow just outside the city. So accommodation's sorted."
The girls turned to him in slow shock.
"YOU WHAT?" Ishika's jaw dropped.
"You guys have homes in Paris?"
"And Switzerland, New York, Italy, Maldives..." Dhruv counted on his fingers.
"Okay, wow." Isha blinked. "I suddenly feel poor."
Everyone laughed again.
"Okay," Dhruv clapped. "Final checklist. Passport: check. Outfits: not yet. Travel dates?"
"Next Friday?" Arjun suggested.
"Done." Dhruv grinned. "Paris, we're coming."
The group was still huddled in the living room, scattered between cushions and leftover laughter, everyone lazily chatting and tossing ideas. The planning had turned into giggles and snack cravings.
Isha slipped away quietly, barefoot and still sleepy-eyed, making her way toward the kitchen to get a glass of water. The cool tiles felt soothing under her feet as she reached for the jug.
She didn't notice when Shivansh got up and followed her.
She poured herself a glass, taking a long sip, when she felt that distinct warmth behind her-like someone's eyes were tracing her every move.
She turned.
And there he was.
Shivansh, leaning casually against the doorframe, arms folded, but his gaze-soft, intense, missed-you-so-much kind of look-was fixed on her.
"You really followed me just for this?" Isha whispered, setting the glass down, her voice teasing.
"I haven't seen you alone since I landed," he murmured, stepping closer. "Two whole months, Isha. You think I can wait longer?"
Her breath hitched slightly. She leaned back against the counter as he closed the distance between them, his hand brushing her waist gently before he slipped his arms fully around her.
"You didn't even tell me you were coming..." she whispered against his hoodie.
"I wanted this moment," he said softly, brushing her hair aside, "Exactly like this."
And before she could reply, he kissed her.
Slowly at first-like he was making sure she was real. Then deeper, hungrier, like he had been counting down every second since they last met. She held his hoodie tight in her fists, smiling against his lips between kisses.
Until-
"Guys-OH MY GOD!"
They broke apart to find Ishika standing there with a spoonful of peanut butter halfway to her mouth, eyes wide and annoyed.
"You two are unbelievable! This is a kitchen, not a movie set!"
Isha burst into giggles, face flushed. Shivansh just raised an eyebrow, not moving an inch from where he held her.
Ishika grabbed a cookie from the shelf dramatically. "You know what? I'm not even shocked anymore. Carry on, Romeo and Juliet."
She stormed out-but not before muttering, "I need bleach for my eyes."
But Shivansh still didn't let go.
"Where were we?" he whispered, smiling, as he gently tilted her chin up and kissed her again, slower this time.
"Hopeless," Isha murmured against his lips, smiling.
"Hopelessly yours," he whispered back.
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