Rajveer Pov :

"AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"

Kiara.

My dear devil sister.

Saanvi shrieked like I'd electrocuted her, grabbing the nearest pillow and hurling it at the door which hit Kiara's face with a thud before crashing to the floor.

"OH MY GOD," Kiara was still frozen in the doorway, hands slapped over her eyes. "WHY IS BHAI ON TOP OF BHABHI OH MY GOD YOU GUYS ARE ACTUALLY YOU WERE AAAHHHH".

Saanvi buried her face under the blanket,screaming into it while I just lay back beside her, one arm behind my head, watching the chaos unfold.

I yawned lazily. "You could've knocked louder, Kiara."

"I DID! I DID knock! YOU LOCKED THE DOOR!" Kiara screeched. "AND YOU UNLOCKED IT, YOU PERVERTED BHAIYA".

I shrugged. "Accidents happen."

"bhabhi," Kiara cried dramatically, half hiding behind the door. "You were letting bhai eat you before his flight?! What is WRONG with you both?"

She screamed again under the blanket, voice muffled. "I'm going to KILL YOU, RAJVEER".

Kiara flailed wildly at the door like she was swatting away invisible sins. "I'M BLIND! Bhabhi, I SAW BHAI HAND HIS HAND WAS AAAHH-"

"Kiara," I said calmly, eyes locked on the doorway, "If you don't shut the door in three seconds, I swear to God I'll stand up right now. And I'm not even wearing a shirt."

Kiara's eyes widened. "You WOULDN'T."

"One..."

" no."

"Two..."

"Bhai, DON'T."

"Three."

And I stood.

Fully shirtless. Pallu still in my hand.

Saree a little ruined. My jaw sinful. My smirk lethal.

Kiara shrieked again.

Slammed the door.

From the hallway, her voice echoed ," YOU TWO NEED PRAYERS AND HOLY WATER AND MAYBE A PANDIT".

Saanvi screamed from under the blanket, "I HATE YOU, RAJ!"

I laughed darkly, crawling toward her again, voice like thunder," Still one hour left, sweetheart. Let's lock it properly this time."

As then she shoved me so hard I actually fell off the bed and hit the damn floor.

THUD

"Ow, "I groaned dramatically, sprawled.

She peeked over the edge of the bed, her eyes gleaming with mischief, her cheeks still pink from what almost happened moments ago.

And then-

She laughed.

My jaan laughed.

One hand covering her mouth, the other pointing at me.

"Look at you,"she grinned, flipping her hair back.

I narrowed my eyes.

"Oh ho, feeling proud, huh?" I growled, slowly sitting up, brushing imaginary dust off my bare chest.

"Of course," she smirked, stretching like a cat. "Today I've proven I'm the stronger and more dangerous one in this marriage."

And then she stood tall on the bed, hands on her hips like some victorious warrior queen. "Bow down, Mr. Akdu Rajawat. Your wife has defeated you."

I let out a low whistle, shaking my head in mock surrender. "Dangerous one, huh?"

She gave a slow, smug nod.

Bad idea.

Because in one swift motion, I lunged forward, caught her wrist and pulled her down hard right onto me.

Thud!

Now she was the one sprawled on my chest, legs tangled with mine, saree slightly messed up, breathing.

Her face was barely two inches away from mine.

And she froze.

I tilted my head, smirking up at her as I felt her chest rise and fall against mine.

Her lips parted slightly, a nervous little gasp escaping.

Her eyes were wide, her blush spreading like wildfire.

I grinned.

"Ufff ,blushing madam," I whispered, my voice low and teasing. "Look who's redder than a tomato in summer."

She tried to pull away, stammering, "R-Raj... y-you're...idiot ."

I tightened my grip around her waist, not letting her move an inch. "And you, my jaan, are terribly cute when you're pretending not to like being this close."

She hid her face in my neck.

I chuckled, my hand stroking her back lazily. "So? Still think you're more dangerous than me?"

She mumbled against my skin, "Right now I think I'm more in danger."

I let out a deep, sinful laugh, brushing my nose against hers. "Exactly, sweetheart. You woke up the lion."

"And now..." I flipped her gently onto her back again, pinning her wrists down like earlier, hovering just inches above her lips," The lion is ready to roar."

She looked up at me, eyes sparkling, lips parted

KNOCK KNOCK.

"Bhaiya," Dhruv shouted from behind the door. "Your driver's here, Badi Maa said come downstairs ".

She whimpered.

I sighed, pressing my forehead against hers." Now he,".

She laughed softly, cupping my jaw. "Go or you'll miss your flight."

I nodded.

But before leaving I kissed her forehead.

As then She was at the mirror, sliding those delicate glass bangles off her wrist one by one, wincing softly as the metal brushed over her rash.

I hated seeing it those angry little lines etched into her soft skin.

The doctor in her never flinched, but the husband in me? I wanted to throw those bangles out the window.

She never complained, never made a fuss. Even today, she'd tried to wear them for me.

But I didn't need her pain.

I needed her.

"Jaan," I called out softly.

She turned at once, placing the bangles down carefully in her jewelry box and walked toward me.

"Ji boliye, Raj," she said gently, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

Hayeee.

My breath hitched.

I clutched my chest dramatically. "Aise na bolo jaan jaate jaate toh meri jaan hi nikal jaayegi."

She gave me a half-laugh, half-eye roll, already knowing what mood I was in.

And yet, she walked closer, her fingers reaching for the tie in my hand.

She murmured,"Stand still. You're already late."

I didn't.

I leaned forward and bit both her cheeks one after the other.

"Ow, Raj," she squealed, laughing and pushing me away. "You bit me, again?"

"How else will I remember the taste of your cheeks for thirty nights?" I grinned shamelessly.

She shook her head, biting her lip to hide her smile, and began tying my tie with expert fingers.

"You remember how to breathe when I'm not around?" she teased, her voice softer now.

"Only when I think of this moment."

I stared at her as she fixed the knot. Her eyes were lowered in concentration, her lips pressed together. She pulled the tie neatly, gave it a final pat, and looked up to meet my eyes.

"I fixed it," she whispered.

I didn't move. Just cupped her face in my palms and held her gaze.

"I wish I could take your hands with me," I murmured.

"They're attached to me, stupid," she smiled.

"Exactly."

I leaned in, pressing my forehead to hers. "I'll miss every second without you, jaan."

"Mee too Raj , "she whispered.

Just then, her phone buzzed faintly on the side table.

But neither of us move.

As then she stood on her toes her fingers brushing the collar of my shirt, adjusting it.

Like she needed to make sure I looked like hers before I left the house.

And God help me, I loved that feeling.

But I was an idiot.

Because just when she leaned in, soft breath kissing my jaw, and whispered in that calm, spine-chilling voice-

"What if any woman looks at you the same way I do?"

my dumbass brain chose to tease her.

Just be the arrogant, smirking, cocky idiot I often was when I didn't know how to deal with love that ran too deep.

I chuckled and leaned back, flashing her a crooked grin. "Then I'll ask her which shade of lipstick she's wearing so I can send it to you too, baby."

Her fingers froze.

Her eyes lifted.

The temperature dropped.

Slap.

Before I could react, her palm met my cheek with a loud crack.

Then another.

And another.

And another.

I stumbled a step back, stunned, as her hands didn't stop twenty times.

My cheeks went from wheatish to tomato red in under thirty seconds.

" JAAAN ," I shouted, finally catching her wrists gently, eyes wide. "What the hell-?"

But she just stood there.

Breathing hard.

Tears in her eyes.

"I hate when you joke like that, Raj," she screamed. "You think it's funny? You think I don't die a little every time I imagine you in another woman's gaze? You think this is easy for me?!"

God.

I messed up.

"I'm sorry," I whispered, voice low, ashamed. "Jaan, I didn't mean it. I swear on every heartbeat inside me. I've hurt you before with my stupid jokes and I hate myself for it."

She blinked rapidly, fists still clenched in the fabric of my shirt.

"I was scared," she whispered, voice cracking. "And you made a joke out of it."

I couldn't say anything else.

So I just stood there, hands by my side, red-faced, humbled, wrecked.

And then-

She grabbed my collar, pulled me down with all the strength of her anger, and kissed me.

Hard.

Her lips crushed against mine like punishment, her teeth nipping at my lower lip, her breath hot with frustration and fury.

She didn't kiss me like a lover.

She kissed me like a storm.

When she finally pulled back, both our breaths ragged, she glared at me and hissed, "I'm ready for many more slaps if the reward is this kiss sweetheart ."

I couldn't help it I smirked like a fool, still breathless. "Baby, I think my face is vibrating."

"Shut up," she snapped, pushing my chest. "And answer me properly. This time truly , or I swear, I'll not talk to you when you call. I'll hang up the phone every time."

Her voice wobbled at the end. The fear behind the fire cracked through.

I cupped her face gently.

"I swear on every deal I've ever made, on every breath I'll take in the next thirty days without you", I said slowly, meeting her tear-glazed eyes, "if any woman dares to look at me the way you do she won't be able to handle it."

"Why?"

"Because you are the only one who's allowed to."

Her breath caught.

"You're the only one who sees me like this. The real me".

She blinked, her anger melting.

And then she kissed my cheek gently.

The one she'd slapped the most.

Her lips lingered there, soft, apologetic, soothing.

I hissed a little. "Baby my cheek hurts now. It's burning like someone set fire to it."

She rolled her eyes, "Good. Let it burn. That's for being a shameless idiot."

I chuckled, wrapping my arms around her waist. "Then kiss the other one too. Balance it out."

She raised a brow. "Want another slap?"

"I'll take that too," I grinned. "If it ends with your lips on mine again."

And just like that her smile came back.

And mine never left.

Her arms were still around me.

And mine?

Mine were wrapped around her like I was shielding my soul.

Because I was.

The suitcase was packed

But I hadn't moved.

And neither had she.

Her head rested against my chest, her breathing slow and quiet like if we just stayed this way a little longer, time might forget us.

I wanted to believe it would.

But then, slowly, she lifted her face.

Her lashes brushed against my skin as she looked up, her eyes searching mine.

There was something in them something silent yet screaming.

Like heartbreak that didn't need words because the ache was loud enough on its own.

I didn't let her speak.

I tilted her chin up with two fingers and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

There was no knock on the door.

Because I'd already ordered the staff not to come near until I walked out myself.

I don't need reminders to be on time.

I might own the jet. I might dictate the schedule.

But I'm still a man of discipline.

I live by time.

But right now? Time was the one thing I hated.

She finally stepped back, and the loss of her warmth made my arms ache.

"I'll get your jacket," she whispered, moving toward the wardrobe.

She pulled it out the black one and walked back to me slowly, her brows furrowed, her hands gentle as she slid the jacket over my shoulders.

Not a word was said.

But in that silence, there was everything.

She tugged the lapels into place, smoothed the front, brushed away an invisible speck of lint on the shoulder.

Then her fingers reached up slowly, lightly to adjust the collar. Her thumb slid across the edge, correcting the slight misfold like it was second nature.

Like she always did it.

And she did.

Every time.

I didn't speak.

I just watched her.

Her lips were parted slightly breathing carefully.

And then...

She finally said it.

"What if something happens while you're away Raj?"Her voice was barely a whisper.

But I heard it.

Every syllable landed in my chest like a punch.

My hands instinctively found her waist again, pulling her close.

Her fingers froze on my collar.

" Jaan," I said.

Because that wasn't a question you answered with pretty words or false hope.

It wasn't about missing me.

It wasn't about time zones or returns.

It was about fate.

And she knew the kind of world I lived in.

She knew about the boardrooms, the enemies dressed in tuxedos, the threats that didn't come with warnings.

She knew the men who smiled at me while waiting for the chance to stab me in the back.

And this trip?

This wasn't just business.

It was war in the making disguised as a negotiation.

I tilted her chin again gently. Her eyes finally met mine.

Eyes that weren't just afraid.

They were begging for an answer I couldn't lie about.

"I can't promise nothing will happen," I said, voice low and honest.

"But I can promise this..."

I leaned in until our foreheads touched, my breath syncing with hers.

"If anything ever comes for me, jaan it'll have to crawl through hell before it even thinks of touching you or anything I love."

Her eyes brimmed with tears.

I wiped one before it fell.

"I'm not going anywhere," I whispered. "Not without a fight. Not without turning the world inside out to come back to you."

She opened her mouth to protest, maybe, or to say something I wouldn't be able to bear but I silenced her.

With a kiss.

Slow.

Just everything I couldn't say in words.

And when I finally pulled back, I rested my lips against hers and whispered

"If something ever happen the last thought in my mind will still be your face."

She broke then.

The tears spilled freely.

And I held her.

Like I never wanted to let go.

"You're not allowed to say things like that," she whispered. "Like it's final goodbye."

"It's not," I said. "It's a promise."

She rested her cheek against my chest again, her sobs quiet and buried, as if she didn't want me to hear how scared she really was.

I heard them anyway.

I felt every single one in my bones.

Eventually, she stepped back again and adjusted the jacket one last time. Set the collar with precision. Brushed her fingers through my hair. Fixed everything like always.

She had wiped her tears.

"You know," I smirked slightly, trying to lighten the ache in my chest, "this collar feels a little too straight. Is that your version of goodbye punishment?"

She blinked and then smiled.

"Next time,"she whispered, "I'll choke you with it."

I chuckled softly.

______🦋

Saanvi's POV

I stood there silently, adjusting the pleats of my saree with trembling hands.

Raj grabbed his phone from the side table, slipping it into his pocket, then picked up the car keys. He turned to me, his lips curling into that soft, teasing smirk that always undid me.

"Come fast, jaan."

I swallowed the lump rising in my throat and forced a smile. "I'm coming you go."

He lingered for a second.

Our eyes met.

Maybe he saw something in mine the shimmer of unshed tears, the ache I didn't speak of.

But he didn't say anything.

He just nodded once and walked out the door, wheeling both suitcases behind him.

I stood frozen.

The sound of the suitcase wheels rolling across the hallway tiles the soft clink of his watch as his hand brushed the doorframe the distant closing of the main door as he stepped out-

Each sound felt like a countdown.

And then

Silence.

He was gone.

And my heart broke louder than the silence that followed.

I stared at the empty doorway for a long second, my saree still half-wrinkled at the waist, my hands still motionless on the fabric.

So many thoughts swirled in my mind like a storm I couldn't stop.

What if he falls sick and doesn't tell me?

What if he forgets to eat again in meetings?

What if he doesn't sleep properly like usual?

What if he gets hurt and I'm not there to scream at him?

But most of all-

What if this month feels longer than it should?

I pressed my hand to my chest, trying to calm the wild beating of my heart.

Trying to convince myself that it was okay.

That I could manage.

That he'd be back.

But love doesn't always listen to reason.

Sometimes it just aches.

And in that moment, I wasn't Dr. Saanvi Rajawat or the daughter-in-law of a powerful family.

I was just his wife.

The girl who wanted her husband to turn around, come back, pull her into his arms one last time.

But he wouldn't.

Because he kept his word even when it hurt.

I sniffled softly, wiping the corners of my eyes before anyone could see. My lipstick was still fresh. My eyes still held kajal. And I wasn't about to let my tears ruin it.

I took a deep breath.

Lifted my chin.

And walked toward the mirror.

Because no matter how much I ached, I had to smile when I joined the family.

I had to wave goodbye like a good wife. I had to show him strength when all I wanted was to crumble.

But God...

Thirty days suddenly felt like a lifetime.

As I slowly descended the stairs, the rich blue folds of my saree swayed around my ankles.

From halfway down, I paused.

My eyes locked on the sight below.

There he was.

He stood near the center of the living room tall, composed, commanding as always surrounded by the warmth of our family.

He was hugging Mummy ji first, his voice low and warm. "Aap apna khayal rakhna, okay? Don't skip your meds."

"Tu meri chinta chhodd aur khud khayal rakh, Raj," she scolded gently, her hand patting his cheek before she stepped back.

Then Chachiji pulled him into a quick side hug, whispering something that made him chuckle, and he pressed a kiss on her head.

I could barely breathe.

Every touch he gave, every smile he offered it felt like he was slowly, piece by piece, leaving parts of himself with each of us before flying away.

And that ache I had held back upstairs?

It stirred again.

But before I could take another step down, his phone rang.

I saw him glance at the screen his brows twitching with recognition.

Without a word, he stepped aside near the hall pillar, answering the call with a short, clipped, "Yes, speak."

As soon as he moved away, I noticed Mummy ji and Chachiji standing near the stairs.

I descended the rest quietly and approached them.

Before I could even open my mouth, Mummy ji turned toward me and gently placed her hand on mine.

"I saw your eyes from there, beta," she said softly. "It's not easy, I know."

I pressed my lips together, trying to nod without letting my chin tremble.

"She's hiding her tears like we won't know," Chachiji added, smiling gently. "But we mothers notice everything."

I gave them a shaky smile, squeezing both their hands.

"I just I hope he eats on time," I whispered.

"He'll remember. Don't worry. Even if he doesn't, he has your scoldings on speed dial," Mummy ji chuckled.

Before we could say more, a loud voice broke the moment

"And this is the moment where Bhai officially becomes an international businessman with a dramatic goodbye".

We turned.

And there stood Kiara adorable, mischievous holding her phone like a camera, shooting her self-proclaimed "family vlog."

"Kiara,"I whispered under my breath, already dreading the drama.

"Say hiiii to the Rajawat Vlog fam" she grinned, angling the camera to Mummy ji. "Today our CEO Bhaiya is leaving us for 30 painful days Will Bhabhi survive? Will Bhaiya eat anything except black coffee and meetings?"

I buried my face in my hands.

Mummy ji rolled her eyes. "Stop your nonsense, Kiara."

"Still, It's emotional". Kiara insisted, swinging the camera dramatically. "Wait wait where is the real drama my bhabhi?"

She pointed the camera toward me, and I instinctively looked away.

"Stop it, Kiara," I groaned, cheeks already warm. "This isn't the time-"

"Oh, but you're looking so pretty in that royal blue saree," she sang, giggling. "Let the people see what heartbreak looks like in designer wear".

I gasped, turning fully red. "I will snatch your phone and throw it in Raj suitcase".

"Too late," she chirped, twirling around. "It's uploading to my backup already".

Mummy ji sighed, though she was clearly amused. "Ye ladki ek din na".

I couldn't help but laugh softly, wiping the corner of my eye as I stole a glance toward where Rajveer still stood one hand in his pocket, his jaw tight, nodding at whatever the caller was saying.

That sharp, focused expression on his face it made me ache a little more.

The moment I saw him walking back toward us after ending his call his steps long, his brows still creased from business mode I panicked .

I couldn't explain it.

Maybe it was the way my eyes were already threatening to betray me again.

So, I did what any emotionally overwhelmed woman in a saree does before she cries in front of the whole house.

I ran to the kitchen.

Well, not ran gracefully escaped.

Or at least that's what I told myself as I brisk-walked like a saree-clad ninja, heels clicking softly against the marble, eyes fixed on the sink like it owed me protection from my own husband's goodbye eyes.

I stepped inside the quiet kitchen, took a long, deep breath, and gripped the edge of the counter.

"Okay," I whispered to myself. "You can do this. You are a doctor. You've stitched up heart wounds. You can survive a thirty-day separation from your husband."

But just as I closed my eyes to collect myself.

"Ahem ahem."

I opened one eye.

Only to find Dhruv leaning against the fridge , arms crossed, a devilish grin on his face.

And beside him, Kiara, still holding her phone like a mike. "Ladies and gentlemen bhabhi hides she escapes but emotions find her even in the kitchen ".

I groaned. "Can I please cry in peace?"

"No," Dhruv said simply, biting into an apple. "Because you're not sad. You're dramatic."

"Exactly," Kiara chirped. "You're not crying because he's going. You're crying bhabhi because bhai bit your collarbone and left a love mark this morning and now you miss his biting skills."

My eyes widened.

She winked. "Don't act innocent, bhabhi. Your neck is redder than the tomatoes in that bowl."

I quickly covered my shoulder with my pallu and turned toward the sink, mortified. "Both of you are impossible."

"And you," Dhruv pointed the apple at me, "are a walking love-struck disaster."

"You should've seen your face when Bhai hugged Mummy ji. You were blinking more than a malfunctioning tube light."

Kiara gasped. "Oh my god, yes and don't think I didn't catch that 'I'm-holding-my-tears-like-a-strong-heroine' look when he picked his suitcases."

I slapped my forehead. "You two are devils in disguise. I'm leaving."

"No wait," Kiara laughed, grabbing my arm. "Come here, bhabhi Tell me one thing did you sneak a kiss upstairs before he came down? Or was it just the biting today?"

I covered my face with my hands. "I hate both of you."

Dhruv snorted. "It's okay. You can hate us bhabhi while we pack tissues in your bag for when you sneak into the bathroom crying after bhai leaves."

I peeked at them from between my fingers.

Despite all the teasing

Despite all the laughter they were pulling out of me

My heart still ached.

But it also felt a little lighter because these two were trying their best to hold it up for me.

"Thanks, ,monkey," I muttered.

"Anytime, Crybaby Rajawat," Dhruv grinned.

"I'm going to name your firstborn 'Goodbye' if you cry this much," Kiara added helpfully.

As they both left.

We still had half an hour before Rajveer had to leave.

There was still half an hour left.

So I thought, what can I do?

And the answer came to me simply feed them something sweet.

Mango shake.

Thick, cold, creamy Raj's favourite since forever.

I tied my hair up loosely, and began slicing the ripe mangoes .

I blended it slowly with chilled milk, a touch of kesar, a pinch of cardamom, and finally a spoonful of love.

I poured it into tall glasses, added ice cubes, and set them on a tray.

I whispered to myself. "Smile now."

With the tray in hand, I stepped into the garden. Mummy ji and Chachi ji were sitting on the jhoola, enjoying the evening breeze.

Kiara was on the lawn chair editing her vlog, Dhruv was munching on peanuts and teasing someone on call.

I served everyone with a soft smile.

"Fresh mango shake," I said.

"Ohh, my favourite," Kiara squealed, taking a glass. "Bhabhi you're spoiling us."

"Beta, you didn't need to do all this," Mummy ji started, but I smiled and shook my head.

"Bas mann kiya," I said softly.

They nodded.

I turned to look around and there he was.

Sitting a little distance away under the patio shade, in his all-black tuxedo, sunglasses hanging on his collar, legs crossed lazily, and phone on the table.

But what made me smile softly was who he was with Abhiman bhaiya.

Abhiman was seated beside him, speaking about something security-related with that usual calm, collected face of his.

I walked toward them, holding the last two glasses.

My pace slowed.

Raj looked up first his eyes caught mine instantly, and something flickered in them.

Just something soft.

And beside him, Abhiman bhaiya stood up politely as I approached, ever the gentleman.

"Shake, bhaiya?" I smiled, offering him the glass first.

He blinked, a little surprised. "Madam this isn't necessary. I-"

"Please," I insisted gently. "Take it. I made it for everyone."

He took it then, his expression warm. "Thank you, Madam."

I nodded, then slowly turned toward Raj.

He stared at it for a second, then took it from me silently fingers brushing for a second too long. My skin tingled.

He raised the glass to his lips without a word.

But I turned back to Abhiman bhaiya before I could fall into those eyes again.

And I said my voice firmer now, "Please take care of Raj."

Abhiman bhaiya blinked.

I continued, "I know he acts like a stone sometimes. Like he doesn't need anyone. But he skips meals when he's stressed, and forgets to sleep properly after late meetings. He'll say he's fine even when he's clearly not. So if he doesn't eat on time call me. Even if it's 2 AM. Please?"

There was a long pause.

Even Rajveer turned to look at me properly now his lips still against the rim of the glass, eyebrows slightly raised.

Abhiman bhaiya stood up straighter and gave me a slight nod, a little more serious now. "I promise, Madam. I'll make sure boss eats, rests, and stays in one piece."

Raj rolled his eyes at that. "Wow. Did I die already? You're assigning me a babysitter?"

I gave him a glare. "You need one."

Abhiman bhaiya smiled behind his glass, trying not to laugh.

Raj leaned back in his chair and grumbled like a child, "You're all teaming up against me now."

I smirked, "we're protecting you from yourself."

He stared at me.

And then quietly sipped the rest of the shake in one go.

"Not bad," he muttered. "Too sweet though."

I smiled, raising a brow. "Exactly how I want your memories to taste."

That shut him up.

Even Abhiman bhaiya looked away politely with a small, knowing smile.

I handed Raj his car keys next, brushing his fingers again, this time lingering just a little longer. He gripped them but didn't let go of my hand for a few seconds too long.

And then he whispered, "You're not making this goodbye easy, jaan."

"I'm not supposed to," I whispered back.

I should have known by now.

That every time he leaned closer with that sinful glint in his eyes and that playful smirk on his lips, nothing good nothing innocent was going to come out of his mouth.

But I still got caught.

There we were, standing in the garden after giving mango shake to Abhiman bhaiya, Raj still sipping his glass with that lazy elegance that should've been illegal in a tuxedo.

I leaned down to take his empty glass, murmuring softly, "Give it, I'll keep it in the tray."

And then he leaned in too close his breath brushing against my cheek.

He tilted his head, his lips dangerously close to my ear, and whispered in that husky voice that always, always made my knees weak. ,"Jaan, forget the mango shake. You know what would really cool me down right now?"

I froze.

My fingers stiffened on the glass.

Please. Not here. The whole family was around.

I turned to glare at him but his devil eyes twinkled with mischief. He smirked deeper.

"You sitting on my face instead of my lap."

I whisper-screamed, smacking his arm hard, my cheeks instantly turning a hundred shades of red. "Shut up! Have you lost it?"

He laughed, entirely unbothered by my embarrassment.

And then, like it was the most normal thing in the world, he pulled my waist and made me sit on his lap right there, under the garden, while everyone was nearby but thankfully distracted.

I tried to get up, squirming. "Raj, Everyone is around have some shame-"

"Nope," he replied casually, gripping my waist tighter. "I have exactly twenty minutes left with my wife. I'm using it to the fullest. Let them watch if they want."

Then he took out his phone and said like an excited teenager, "Come on, one selfie. Clicked with my jaan in my lap."

I narrowed my eyes. "You'll post it, won't you?"

"Who said I'll post it?" he grinned. "This one's for my lonely hotel nights when I miss my favorite pillow and her soft blushes."

He chuckled again and pulled me closer, making me rest against his chest as he lifted the phone high.

"I'm clicking. No arguments."

I gave him my best annoyed glare which obviously failed because right at the last second, he brushed his lips near my cheek, and I ended up smiling like a fool in the photo.

Click.

Then he turned the camera again for another.

"Smile properly this time. And don't fake it," he teased.

I rolled my eyes but smiled softly for the next picture.

"Perfect," he whispered.

He looked at the photo for a second, then locked the phone and held me tighter, resting his chin on my shoulder.

"I'll look at this when the nights feel too long," he murmured.

My throat went dry.

My hands slowly reached up and cupped his jaw, making him lift his head.

"Then look at it after eating properly," I whispered. "And after video calling me. Every night. Promise?"

He nodded.

Then winked. "Every night. But the call won't be PG-rated."

I smacked his chest again, biting back a laugh. "Pervert."

"Yours," he replied.

I was still sitting on Raj's lap, his arms snug around my waist.

We had just finished taking those shamelessly sweet selfies when I heard footsteps approaching .

Uh-oh.

I tried to wriggle away from his lap, but his grip only tightened, his chin still resting on my shoulder. "Don't move, jaan. I just got comfortable."

"Raj, someone's coming-"

Too late.

"Oye hoye," came Dhruv's voice, followed by an overly dramatic gasp.

"Should we knock before entering the garden now?" Kiara chimed in, laughing as she appeared beside her idiot cousin-in-crime, both standing there with their arms crossed and smug grins plastered on their faces.

Dhruv pointed like a full-on drama actor. "Caught live Mr. and Mrs. Rajawat starring in their public display of lust, not even love."

"Love got left behind in the bedroom. This is pure desperation," Kiara added, giggling uncontrollably.

I face palmed, hiding my burning red cheeks with both hands. "Oh my God."

Raj didn't even flinch.

Didn't even blink.

Instead, he turned his head slowly, giving them the kind of glare that could probably wither roses in spring.

"Say one more word," he said in a deep, ice-cold tone, "and I'll book your wedding halls right now with random strangers. You too, Dhruv."

Dhruv's smirk faltered. "Arre bhai, joke tha bas-"

"Yeah, bhabhi looked so red we couldn't help it-" Kiara added sheepishly, now taking a half step back.

I peeked up at Raj who was still holding me protectively, like a lion daring anyone to touch what's his.

"Raj, it's okay. Don't scare them," I said, patting his arm gently.

He didn't break eye contact with them. "No one teases my wife when she's sitting on my lap. Especially not when I only have fifteen minutes left with her."

"Oop possessive mode activated," Dhruv whispered to Kiara.

"More like danger husband' mode," she whispered back.

Raj raised one eyebrow.

Both of them instantly backed up, hands in the air.

"Okay okay bhabhi, we're sorry," Kiara laughed, hiding behind Dhruv. "We're leaving! Let the Romeo enjoy the Juliet."

Dhruv folded his hands in a dramatic namaste. " bhai aapke pyaar ke raaste mein hum kabhi nahi aayenge. Carry on."

They both ran off giggling before Raj could open his mouth again.

I shook my head, laughing softly into his neck.

"You scared them."

"They should be scared," he muttered. "Idiots think this is a circus."

"They're just teasing. It's how they show love."

Raj leaned back slightly and looked into my eyes. "Then tell them to find a new language. Tease each other. Or better, go fall in love and get teased back."

I chuckled, pressing my hand to his chest.

"Possessive lion ," I teased.

He grinned, brushing his nose against mine. "Only for one prey. And she's sitting right here."

Just as I was trying to escape Raj's iron grip from his lap, Mummy ji's voice floated from the main door.

"Saanvi beta, Rajveer! Come fast".

I jolted slightly.

Oh God. Time was slipping.

I quickly pushed against his chest, trying to stand. "Raj, come on-get up".

But the moment I shifted off his lap, he let out a low, dramatic groan.

"Fuck."

I froze.

Turned slowly to look at him, my eyebrow raised high.

"What did you just say?" I asked suspiciously, hands on my hips.

He blinked at me innocently, lips twitching.

"Nothing. I just uh something felt hard."

I narrowed my eyes, crossing my arms. "What. Was. Hard."

He gave me that devastatingly smug grin the one that promised nothing but trouble and leaned back on the chair.

Then he pointed casually to his heart.

"This. My poor heart, jaan. It became rock solid the moment you left my lap."

I rolled my eyes so hard I nearly saw my past life. "You're disgusting."

"And dangerously in love with you," he added with zero shame, standing up and walking around me slowly, like a lion circling his prey.

"Raj," I warned as I stepped back, "don't you dare say anything else shameless."

He leaned in, his lips brushing my ear again, voice deep and sinful. "You sure? Because there's another thing that felt hard when you sat on me but-"

"RAJVEER"

I softly, dragging him along. "Come on, Mr. Hard-Heart. Mummy ji is calling."

He grinned. "And you're still calling me 'Mr.' instead of 'Baby, please don't go'? Wow. Stone-hearted wife confirmed."

I smacked his arm lightly.

"Come fast," I said.

We walked back into the living room our steps slow, heavy, like neither of us truly wanted to move forward. Everyone was already gathered inside, chatting softly, trying to act normal.

I quietly walked to stand beside Mummy ji and Chachi ji, while Rajveer went to Papa ji and Chachu.

He bent to touch their feet, humbly taking their blessings before both men pulled him into warm hugs.

Dhruv gave him a quick half-hug, smacking his back like brothers do. Kiara hugged him too, pretending to cry into his shoulder.

Meanwhile, I was still standing by the side, my hands folded neatly, heart thudding like it would spill out onto the marble floor.

And then-

But then I heard Mummy ji's voice, warm and smiling. "Saanvi beta, ja ja hug kar le apne pati ko."

Before I could react, Chachi ji added mischievously, "Haan betu! Your husband is going away for a whole month. Go give him a proper goodbye hug, Don't act like a new bride now."

I turned scarlet.

"Chachi," I whispered in protest, glancing around at everyone.

I wasn't used to public affection especially not in front of all the elders.

But the next moment, both Mummy ji and Chachi ji exchanged a wink and gently pushed me from behind.

"Go now,"Mummy ji whispered with a grin. "He's yours, after all."

And before I could resist, I stumbled straight into Raj's chest.

I blinked up in shock and found his arms wrapping around me instantly .

His hand slid up my back, warm and sure, pulling me closer like we were the only two people in that room. His chin dropped to rest against my hair.

And my hands? Without thinking, I clutched his shirt .

The whole room chuckled softly again. Dhruv whistled.

I buried my face against his chest in sheer embarrassment.

And then I felt his breath against my ear.

"About time you came running into my arms, sweetheart," he whispered, his voice low and teasing.

I gasped softly, nudging his shoulder in protest.

But he wasn't done.

His lips brushed just behind my ear, and in that sinful whisper only I could hear, he added," If they weren't watching, I swear this hug would've ended with you against the door instead."

My eyes widened instantly.

"Raj," I hissed under my breath.

He chuckled darkly, pulling back slowly just enough to look into my face. His thumb brushed my cheek so gently I almost broke right there.

"Don't cry," he murmured, only for me. "You'll make it harder to leave."

I nodded, not trusting my voice at all.

As I stood by the doorway, hands clenched in the folds of my saree, watching silently.

One of the staff members wheeled Raj suitcase toward the waiting car.

He was really leaving.

He stepped outside the mansion now, sharp in his tuxedo, spine straight, eyes calm as if he was ready.

But I-

I was still inside.

My feet wouldn't move. My throat was tight. My heart was beating like it was trying to shatter its way out of my chest.

I had promised myself I wouldn't cry.

I had practiced that smile in the mirror. Told myself a hundred times.

But then

My eyes drifted again to the suitcase now loaded in the car, to the staff closing the back door.

It felt too final.

Too cruel.

And suddenly, without thinking I broke.

"Raj," I whispered.

I stepped forwar.

Then suddenly, I was running.

Straight into his arms*

My fingers clutched his suit jacket, curling tightly in the fabric, and I buried my face into his chest.

Tears spilled freely now, no matter how much I tried to blink them back.

I couldn't speak properly.

Only one sentence came out, choked and broken, in front of everyone, but it didn't matter anymore.

"Please thodhi der ruk jaye na, Raj".

I felt his body freeze for a heartbeat.

And thenwarm arms wrapped tightly around me. As if he, too, was trying to hold together something broken.

He just held me.

One hand cradled the back of my head, fingers stroking through my hair softly, the other arm securing me close, so close I could hear the fast beat of his heart against my tears.

He leaned down, lips brushing the top of my head. His voice, low and hoarse ,"Jaan say that again and I swear I'll cancel the flight right now."

I shook my head against his chest.

"No, I'm sorry, " I whispered, voice trembling. "I promised I won't cry. I'm sorry".

He cupped my face gently and lifted it until our eyes met.

His thumb brushed away my tears, and with a soft, heartbreaking smile, he whispered ,"Why are you saying sorry for loving me this much?"

That did it.

I sobbed softly again, forehead resting against his.

Mummy ji placed her hand gently on my back, giving me a soft pat. "Beta it's okay. He'll be back before you know it."

Even Chachu said warmly, "Let them hug love like this is rare."

Kiara sniffled behind her phone. "You two are killing me. Even I want this filmy love."

Raj kissed my forehead slowly.

Then leaned to my ear, whispering shameless even in the pain," Now you've cried publicly, jaan when I come back, I want the same energy privately."

I gasped in embarrassment and smacked his chest weakly.

He chuckled against my hair.

His hands cradled my cheeks gently, his eyes soaking in every inch of my face as if trying to memorise me not just my features.

Then he leaned down and placed a soft, lingering kiss on my forehead.

And in that deep, sinfully soft voice the one that had teased, tamed, he whispered ,"Apna khayal rakhna, mohtarma beshaq saansien aapki hain lekin jaan humari hai."

A shiver travelled through my spine.

My breath caught in my throat as his words wrapped around my soul like silk.

I blinked rapidly, trying to hold back the tears brimming at the edge of my lashes.

And then

He stepped away.

His hands left mine.

I stood there froze watching him walk away toward the waiting car.

He reached the door, turned and looked back.

That last glance.

His eyes found mine again.

And for a moment everything stood still.

Everyone around us faded there was only me and him.

Just his stare holding mine

I clenched my jaw lightly and gave him a nod the smallest one, but with every bit of strength I had.

He smiled faintly, knowingly, like he heard all the words I didn't say.

Then he stepped into the car.

I didn't move.

Not until the door shut with a dull thud.

Not until I saw the wheels slowly begin to roll away from the mansion gates.

That's when I felt it.

The first tear slipped down my cheek.

I quickly looked down, pressing the edge of my pallu to my face, hiding it.

Mummy ji gently placed her hand on my shoulder from behind. "He'll be back, beta."

I nodded, but my voice was stuck somewhere in my chest.

As now it's been two hours.

Two long, aching hours since Raj left.

The house was too quiet now.

Papa ji and Chachu had retired to their room after lunch. Kiara was lying on the sofa beside me, one leg lazily crossed over the other, scrolling her phone.

Mummy ji sat beside me on the couch, slowly rubbing my back as I tried to sip on the glass of water she had handed me almost twenty minutes ago.

But my hiccups from crying still wouldn't stop.

"You've been hiccuping since he left, beta," she said softly, offering me a glass of water. "You'll make him sneeze wherever he is."

I gave a weak laugh the kind you force out just to avoid breaking down.

But The worst part?

He hadn't called.

Not once.

No message. No voice note. Not even a double tick on the last one I sent.

My phone was clenched tightly in my hand like a lifeline. I kept checking it again and again, unlocking it, refreshing every two seconds as if somehow, his name would magically flash on the screen.

But nothing.

Kiara glanced at me, her voice low but trying to cheer me up. "Bhabhi, don't worry. Maybe network issue. He must've landed, he's probably just stuck with security checks. You know Raj bhai always full VIP treatment."

I gave a weak nod, not trusting my voice.

But inside, the uneasiness grew louder.

Kiara, ever the restless energy in the room, suddenly sat up straighter and reached for the TV remote.

"Let me check if there's anything fun on. Something to distract this crying mess," she teased lightly, trying to lift the air.

She turned on the LED television mounted on the wall.

The screen flickered to life.

A news anchor's voice echoed in the room.

And then the world stopped.

"BREAKING NEWS: A private jet registered under Rajawat Industries rumoured to be flown today by business tycoon Rajveer Singh Rajawat has reportedly crashed after losing signal mid-air shortly post take-off."

The moment the words left the anchor's mouth, my world stilled.

I couldn't breathe.

My body stiffened.

My heart plummeted into my stomach.

Kiara's hand froze on the remote.

"...w-what?" I whispered.

The anchor continued, the words landing like hammers against my chest.

The aircraft, which departed from Jaipur's private airbase just two hours ago, was headed toward london for a month-long business summit. Sources say emergency services have arrived at the scene, but initial images show heavy damage. Authorities have not released the names of confirmed survivors yet".

"No..." I stood up without realising it, the glass slipping from my hand and shattering across the marble floor.

Mummy ji gasped.

"Saanvi-!"

But I didn't hear her.

Because the screen changed.

A burning tail wing. Smoke. A white private jet charred into black and grey pieces.

I knew that plane.

It was our.

Rajveer's plane.

I took a step back.

My ears buzzed. My chest felt like it had caved in. My lips moved but no words came out.

"Call him-someone please call him-why isn't he calling-WHY DIDN'T HE CALL-" I was shaking now, heart thudding painfully.

Kiara clutched the phone, trying his number.

Switched off.

Mummy ji caught me just as my knees buckled." Don't think the worst, beta don't jump to conclusions," she whispered, voice trembling too.

But I couldn't hear anything anymore.

My hands clutched my stomach, as if trying to hold together the pieces breaking apart inside me.

Because he hadn't called.

Because my last message was still on delivered.

But what if now...

He forgets everything?

What if now

He never remembers me again?

And just as I collapsed onto the floor, tears blinding my vision-

Kiara's phone lit up again.

An unknown number was calling.

I held my breath.

Everyone froze.

Kiara slowly picked up.

"Hello?"

Her eyes widened.

Then-

She turned to me.

And whispered, almost breathlessly ,"It's about Bhai."