Ritika froze, her heart pounding. "K...kya papa?" she asked, her voice quivering with fear.

[W...what, Dad?]

Harsh's gaze remained unwavering as he leaned closer. "Achhe se samajh rahe ho jo main puchna chahta hoon," he said, his words heavy with meaning.

[You understand exactly what I'm asking, right?]

Ritika looked at her father, panic and guilt swirling in her chest. "Papa... kuch samajh nahi aaya," she stammered, glancing nervously at Arav.

[Dad... I don't understand anything.]

Harsh glanced at Tara, who was standing silently beside him, her arms crossed. "Tumhe pata tha na?" Harsh asked her, his voice a little softer but still firm.

[You knew, right?]

Tara, who had been quietly observing the entire situation, nodded reluctantly. "H...haan, par abhi ek saal pehle tak hi pata chala," she admitted.

[Y...yes, but I only found out about it a year ago.]

Harsh shook his head, frustration evident on his face. "Mujhe nahi bata sakti thi?" he repeated, his voice rising slightly.

[Couldn't you have told me?]

Ritika, trembling, glanced at Arav and then back at her father. "Papa... I am sorry... main batane wali thi... ham bas sahi time ka wait kar rahe the," she said, her voice full of remorse.

[Dad... I am sorry... I was going to tell you... we were just waiting for the right time.]

Harsh's eyes narrowed. "Meri beti ke saath serious ho?" he asked, his voice sharp, demanding the truth from both of them.

[Are you serious about my daughter?]

"J...haan uncle, shuru se," Arav said, his voice steady but his heart racing. He had never been so scared in his life.

[Y...yes, uncle, from the beginning.]

Ritika's eyes widened in surprise at Arav's response, but Harsh wasn't finished. "Aisa to nahi hai na ki aaj kal ke ladko ki tarah use and throw kar diya?" Harsh questioned, his voice low, almost a warning.

[It's not like you plan to use and throw her like the boys nowadays, right?]

Arav quickly shook his head, his voice firm. "Uncle agar aisa hota to chaar saal na chal pata kuch bhi," he said, his sincerity obvious.

[Uncle, if that were the case, nothing would have lasted for four years.]

Harsh took a moment, as if considering Arav's words, before finally nodding. "Khush rakhoge isse?" he asked, his voice softer now, almost a challenge.

[Will you make her happy?]

Arav didn't hesitate. "Aapse bhi jyada" he said, his voice filled with determination.

[More than even you.]

Ritika watched the exchange with tears of happiness in her eyes, her emotions a mix of love, relief, and excitement. She had never seen her father so serious, but the way Arav responded to every question reassured her.

Harsh paused for a moment, before asking the question that had been on his mind. "Shadi karoge meri beti se?"

[Will you marry my daughter?]

Ritika gasped, her heart skipped a beat. She glanced at Arav, her eyes searching his face. Arav, still sitting on the couch, looked at her for a moment before looking back at Harsh.

"Jab aap bolen aur jab Ritika chahe," Arav said, his voice steady, his gaze never leaving Ritika's.

[When you say so and when Ritika wants it.]

Harsh's face softened, a proud smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Without saying another word, he pulled Arav into a warm embrace. "Mujhe pata hai Rajvansh khandan ke ladke aaj kal ke awara ladko ki tarah nahi hain... mai bahut khush hoon ki meri beti ne tumhe choose kiya," Harsh said, patting Arav's back affectionately.

[I know that the boys of the Rajvansh family are not like the irresponsible boys these days... I am very happy that my daughter chose you.]

Arav, feeling both relieved and honored, wrapped his arms around Harsh. "Thank you so much, uncle," he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

As they broke the hug, Ritika couldn't help herself. She ran to her father and wrapped her arms around him, tears streaming down her face. "I love you, papa," she whispered.

Harsh, touched by his daughter's affection, kissed her head tenderly.

Just then, Harsh cleared his throat, preparing to deliver his final words. "Jab tak shaadi nahi hoti tab tak..." He paused, his gaze shifting between Arav and Ritika, a knowing look in his eyes.

[Until the wedding happens, until then...]

Before Harsh could finish, Arav quickly interrupted. "Nahi uncle, mere man me aapki beti ke liye sirf pyaar hai aur kuch nahi... main promise karta hoon, jab tak ham kisi bandhan me nahi bandh jaate, ham apni limit me rahenge," he said, his tone serious, but reassuring.

[No uncle, in my heart, there is only love for your daughter and nothing else... I promise, until we are bound in any relationship, we will stay within our limits.]

Ritika nodded in agreement, her heart swelling with love and pride. "Haan papa, hum sab kuch samajhte hain," she said softly.

[Yes, dad, we understand everything.]

Harsh looked at both of them, his face serious but his eyes full of trust. "I trust you both," he said, his voice warm.

With that, Harsh, Tara, Ritika, and Arav shared a heartfelt family hug. It was a moment of unity and understanding, a promise of the future, and a silent agreement that love would guide them through everything.

Harsh pulled away from the hug and looked at Arav with a smile. "Abhi ke liye, tum khud hi apne ghar walon ko bata do sab, kyunki abhi tum log chote ho... Shaadi jaisi Jimmedari nahi utha paoge... 25 tak ke ho jao phir tumhare ghar apni beti ka hath mangne aaunga," he said, his voice light but with a serious undertone.

[For now, you tell your family everything yourself, because you're still young... You won't be able to take on the responsibility of marriage... When you turn 25, I will come to your house to ask for my daughter's hand.]

Arav quickly responded. "Nahi uncle, aap nahi ayenge."

[No uncle, you will not come.]

Everyone turned to look at him, surprised. Ritika's eyes widened in disbelief. "Arav, ye kya keh rahe ho?" she asked, her voice filled with confusion.

[Arav, what are you saying?]

Arav smiled warmly at Ritika, taking her hand in his. "Mere parents ayenge, aapke ghar mera haath mangne, aapki beti ke liye," he said, his eyes shining with sincerity and love.

[My parents will come, to your house to ask for my hand, for your daughter.]

Ritika's heart fluttered as she smiled at him, her eyes glistening with tears of happiness. Harsh and Tara exchanged glances, both of them silently agreeing that their daughter had indeed found the perfect boy.

FLASHBACK ENDS

****************************************

The moment was filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a future that was yet to unfold. And as Arav and Ritika stood hand in hand, they both knew that this was only the beginning of their journey together.

Akash sat in his grandmother's cozy living room, the warm hues of the space contrasting with the sharp, modern look of his laptop. The room smelled faintly of jasmine incense, his grandmother's favorite, and the soft hum of the ceiling fan added to the peaceful ambiance.

He had just returned from the office and immediately settled into work mode, deeply engrossed in a video conference call.

The voices on the call were serious, discussing strategies and projections. Akash, having completed his MBA from IIM Ahmedabad with flying colors, was now flourishing in his job at a prestigious multinational corporation. His analytical skills and natural leadership had earned him one of the best placements in his batch, and he was already making waves in his field.

"Mr. Gupta, the numbers for Q3 seem promising, but I believe we need to reassess the marketing strategy for urban demographics," Akash said, his voice calm yet commanding. He adjusted his glasses, his eyes scanning the charts on the screen.

Suddenly, a faint voice broke through his thoughts, a soft and slightly persistent tone calling out to him from the window.

"Sahab, phool le lo na, Sabah," the female voice chimed, its pitch a bit strange and odd to his ears.

Akash, unbothered and focused on his work, didn't even glance up. "Nahi chahiye," he responded firmly, his gaze fixed on the screen as he continued typing.

But the voice didn't retreat. Instead, it came again, a little louder and more insistent. "Le lo na, sahab."

He sighed, clearly uninterested, and briefly glanced toward the window with a slight frown. "Arre, nahi chahiye... dekhiye, I'm busy right now. Mai kuch der mein paise de dunga," he added, trying to dismiss the interruption politely while still keeping his focus on the task at hand.

However, the voice persisted, now carrying a slight sense of urgency. "Sahab, dekho toh meri taraf ek baar."

Akash, slightly irritated but mostly distracted, didn't respond. He simply continued working, determined not to let the disruption derail him. Just as he adjusted his focus back to the conference call, something unexpected happened.

A rose, soft yet firm, landed squarely on his face, startling him. He blinked, momentarily lost in confusion as he looked up and then quickly turned his head toward the window. His eyes widened in shock as he saw none other than Richa standing there, grinning mischievously at him through the glass. Her playful eyes sparkled with joy, and she waved cheekily.

"Arre ye..." Akash muttered under his breath, his surprise turning into a mix of laughter and disbelief. Without a second thought, he rushed toward the door, excitement and affection overwhelming him. He swung open the door with an ease that reflected his joy, and there, standing on the threshold, was Richa.

Before she could say anything, Akash pulled her into his arms, lifting her off the ground in a swift motion, twirling her around in pure happiness. Richa gasped in surprise, but she didn't resist. Her laughter filled the air as Akash spun her around, the two of them completely lost in the moment.

Meanwhile, the video conference was still ongoing, and the team members on the call could only watch in bemusement as they saw their colleague, Akash, utterly distracted by the unexpected visitor. A few chuckles could be heard from the other end, with some team members trying to suppress their laughter.

"I missed you," Akash murmured softly, his arms wrapped tightly around Richa, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Richa had chosen to pursue her MBA at IIM Ahmedabad, not only because of her academic interests but also to stay closer to Akash. Their relationship had blossomed over time, and Richa just wanted to stay near Akash, not wanting to leave him alone.

Now in her second year, Richa was balancing the demanding coursework of IIM.

She broke the hug after a few moments, her eyes widening as she glanced over Akash's shoulder at the laptop screen. "Akash, sab video call pe hain," she said, her voice slightly panicked as she realized the situation.

Akash, still holding her, turned around and looked at the laptop, his gaze softening when he realized his team was still waiting for him. His expression shifted into one of playful apology. He quickly leaned over the laptop and spoke into the microphone with a grin, "Sorry, sir, I have my girlfriend here. I want to take my leave."

The man on the other side of the call chuckled, clearly entertained by the unexpected turn of events. "Alright, we should end this conference here," he said with a chuckle, signaling to wrap things up.

With a quick click, Akash ended the call, the screen going dark. He turned back to Richa, his eyes filled with affection and a slight apologetic gleam.

"Kab aayi tum?" Akash asked, his voice filled with curiosity and affection, as if he couldn't get enough of her presence.

Richa gave a playful grin, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Abhi abhi," she replied, leaning back slightly to meet his gaze. "Ghar pe kisi ko nahi bataya. Varna mummy ka pata hai na! Cid ban jayengi," she added, teasing him with the image of her mother turning into a detective if she ever found out.

Akash chuckled, shaking his head. He had heard countless stories of Richa's mom's overprotective tendencies, and the thought of her turning into a CID officer at the mention of their relationship always made him smile.

"She asked you to leave me na?" Akash asked, his tone turning more serious as he looked at Richa, his expression a mix of amusement and affection. He had always known Richa's mother meant well, but her protective nature sometimes put her at odds with their relationship.

Richa's face softened, but there was a hint of defiance in her smile. "Arre nahi toh..." she started, but Akash quickly shushed her, placing a finger on her lips.

"Shh! Don't lie, Richa," he teased, his eyes full of warmth and love. He had learned over the years to recognize when Richa was holding back the truth.

Richa's lips curled into a smile, her eyes glinting with an unspoken promise. Without hesitation, she leaned in and kissed him on the cheek, a gesture that sent a wave of warmth through his chest.

"Haan, par no one can make me leave you," Richa continued, her voice soft but resolute. "Tum khud bhi chaho toh bhi mai kahin jane vali nahi hun. Ek baar tumne koshish kar ke dekh liya hai na?"

Akash gazed at Richa, his eyes filled with adoration, his heart racing with emotions that he had long been holding back. His voice was soft, almost a whisper, as he leaned closer to her, brushing his thumb gently against her cheek. "You are making me fall for you every day," he confessed, the intensity of his feelings clear in his words. His fingers lingered on her skin, tender and full of affection, as he gazed deeply into her eyes.

Richa smiled softly, her heart fluttering in response to his words. She had always known that Akash's love for her was deep, but moments like this made her realize just how much he truly cared. She leaned in slightly, as if ready to meet him halfway, her lips parting ever so slightly.

Akash tilted his head, slowly moving in, his lips almost grazing hers, ready to capture them in a kiss. But just before their lips could meet, he froze, his gaze shifting to the photograph of his grandmother hanging on the wall. He looked at it for a moment, as if lost in thought, and then, with a sheepish smile, he said, "Sorry Dadi maa, I don't want to traumatize you."

With a playful chuckle, he reached up, gently covering the eyes of the picture with his hand.

With the picture now turned to the wall, Akash's attention shifted back to Richa. He leaned in again, this time without hesitation, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, slow kiss. The warmth of his lips melded with hers, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to disappear. The kiss was deep and full of longing, a tender exploration of affection. Akash's hand moved from her cheek to the back of her head, his fingers threading through her hair as he deepened the kiss.

Richa responded instantly, her breath catching as she tilted her head slightly, allowing him further access. Her lips parted, welcoming him, and Akash's kiss became more urgent, more consuming. His tongue traced the line of her lower lip before slipping inside, seeking out hers.

His hands moved from her face to her waist, pulling her in closer, his fingers gripping her softly but firmly as his lips continued to move against hers. He sucked her lip once more, tugging at it gently before releasing it with a soft, satisfied sound.

He pulled her even closer, his hands now fully encircling her waist as he lifted her slightly off the ground, his kiss not giving her a chance to breathe.

Akash gently pecked her lips once more, his lips lingering briefly before he pressed a soft kiss to the tip of her nose, his eyes twinkling with affection. "Ho gaya ab aap dekh sakte ho," he said with a smile, turning back to the portrait of his grandmother on the wall, adjusting it with care, making sure it was perfectly placed. His movements were deliberate, and as he did so, Richa let out a small giggle, amused by how seriously he took everything.

Richa reached up and gently wiped the lipstick mark from his lips, her fingers grazing his skin tenderly. Akash chuckled at her action, his eyes warm as he watched her. He leaned in for another kiss on her cheek before speaking again.

"Chalo, tumhe bhukh lagi hogi na?" he asked, his voice soft but teasing. "I will prepare something for you. Tum baitho."

Richa immediately shook her head, raising an eyebrow at him, her smile mischievous. "Please nahi," she replied, her tone full of playful concern. "Tumhe akele kitchen mein jaane dena khatre se khali nahi hai. Abhi last week hi tum gas khula chhor ke chale gaye the na aur ek din baad jab yahan vapas aaye tab samajh mein aaya."

Akash's smile turned sheepish, remembering the incident. "Oho, don't remind me," he admitted, scratching the back of his neck in embarrassment.

"Chalo," he said with a laugh, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. He gently pulled her toward the kitchen, making sure she was close by, the warmth of her presence comforting him.

****************************************

The warm evening air buzzed with energy inside the exhibition hall. It was Arushi's first exhibition, and preparations were in full swing. Arushi stood in the center, trying to maintain her composure. Her family members moved around the hall, chipping in wherever they could.

Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the noise, "Aruuu!!"

Arushi turned and saw Richa running towards her with a beaming smile. Before she could say anything, Richa enveloped her in a tight hug.

"Kaisi hai?" Richa asked, pulling back slightly to look at her friend's face.

[How are you?]

"Mast!" Arushi replied with a grin. Her expression quickly shifted to one of mock irritation. "But Siya kahan mar gayi? Aane waali thi na!" she asked, her voice tinged with impatience.

Before Richa could respond, Arushi felt a sudden tug on her hair from behind. She turned swiftly, her brows furrowed, but found no one there. Confused, she glanced around, only to hear a loud "Bhooo!" shouted right into her ear.

Startled, Arushi jumped, her heart racing, only to see Siya standing behind her, grinning mischievously. Siya burst into laughter, and Arushi's fake glare only made her laugh harder.

"Siyaaa!" Arushi exclaimed, swatting at her friend's arm as Siya chuckled and pulled her into a warm hug.

"Kab aayi wapas?" Richa asked, breaking the hug, her curiosity evident.

"Just abhi! Airport se seedha yahin aa rahe hain," Siya replied with a smile, her voice carrying the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.

[Just now! They are coming straight from the airport to here.]

As they stood chatting, Richa's tone turned wistful. "Shashwat bhaiya nahi aaye, Aru? Ritika didi aur Arav bhaiya ki engagement hai... kab tak lautenge wo? Do saal se wapas nahi aaye. I'm missing him," she said, her voice soft.

[Shashwat brother hasn't come, Aru? It's Ritika didi and Arav bhaiya's engagement... when will he return? He hasn't been back for two years. I'm missing him.]

Arushi sighed, sharing the sentiment. "Haan yaar, but wo kal aa rahe hain wapas," she assured her. Then, with a teasing glint in her eyes, she turned to Siya. "Toh Miss Siya madam, apni khushi ke baare mein kya kehengi aap?"

[Yes, but he's coming back tomorrow. So, Miss Siya madam, what will you say about your happiness?]

At the mention of Shashwat, Siya's heart clenched painfully. She had been trying