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जैसे आँख है दर्पण है, एक दूजे के वास्ते

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The Rajvansh house buzzed with activity as the Malhotras gathered in the living room, surrounded by vibrant dresses, glittering bangles, and the hum of conversation. The women were deeply engrossed in selecting outfits for the upcoming events, while Darsh, the self-proclaimed victim of the day, reluctantly prepared tea under Kirti's watchful eye.

In the kitchen, Darsh grumbled to himself, his voice a mix of frustration and self-pity. "Yaar, maine kis manhus ghadi me sabko bata diya ki mujhe chai banani aati hai?" He wiped his hands on a towel and loaded the tray with cups, his face a picture of exaggerated misery.

When he entered the living room, the chatter momentarily paused as he handed out tea. "Lo, sabki chai aapke naukar ke haathon," he muttered dramatically, placing cups on the table.

Darsh finally reached Arushi and handed her a cup. Before she could take a sip, Divya, sitting nearby, declared dramatically, "Hame ladki bilkul pasand nahi aayi!"

Darsh stopped in his tracks, narrowing his eyes at Divya. "Muh pe phek dunga yeh cup. Jali hui aatma banti firegi," he shot back, making everyone burst into laughter.

"Darsh!" Kirti scolded him, glaring. "Aise baat karte hain? Thappad padega!"

Divya smirked, leaning back in her chair. "Bada aaya."

Darsh sighed, rolling his eyes. "Yaar, Shashwat bhaiya toh room se bahar hi nahi aaye. Upar jana padega chai lekar," he said, looking at the tray.

Arushi quickly raised her hands, shaking her head. "Tu rehne de, gira dega tujhe. Siya, tu stairs ke side hai, tu hi de aa."

Siya immediately looked up, glaring at Arushi. "Hum nahi jayenge!"

Tara, who had been sorting through bangles, joined in. " Siya, bas ek cup hi toh dena hai. Jaa de aa."

"Arre, wo kyun jayegi?" Kirti cut in, putting her foot down. "Main jaati hoon."

Siya hesitated, glancing at everyone, and finally sighed. "Nahi aunty, aap rehne dijiye. I will go."

She grabbed the cup from the tray and made her way to the stairs, her heart racing slightly. Youngsters exchanged knowing smiles as she disappeared around the corner.

Siya's heart felt heavy as she climbed the stairs, the tea cup in her trembling hands. She had been avoiding Shashwat ever since the bachelor's party. His intense gaze, his possessive touch during the dance, and the emotions that followed had left her confused and vulnerable.

She hesitated at the door of the room Shashwat was sharing with Arav. Knocking lightly, she waited, but there was no response. "Shashwat?" she called softly, but the silence was her only answer. Deciding not to linger, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The room was tidy, with the faint smell of his cologne lingering in the air. She glanced around but didn't see him. Sighing in relief, she walked to the table and gently placed the cup there.

As she turned to leave, her arm brushed against something, and a soft thud echoed through the quiet room. Siya froze and turned back to see a sketchbook lying on the floor, its pages slightly fanned out. Biting her lip, she bent down to pick it up.

It was larger than she expected, and as she tried to place it back on the table, it slipped from her hands, and a page flipped open. Her eyes fell on the sketch, and her breath caught in her throat.

It was her.

The sketch was of her in school, mid-performance, her expression fierce and full of grace. The details were impeccable-her flowing outfit, the soft movement of her hair, the intensity in her eyes. For a moment, Siya could only stare. Her hand hovered over the page, trembling as she turned it.

Another sketch. This time, it was from her college days-a classical dance performance she had given at a regional competition. The strokes of the pencil captured her every move, every emotion. She remembered that day vividly; it was the first time she had performed after Shashwat had been posted out.

Her heart clenched as she turned another page and gasped.

It was her performing in Bangalore. She recognized the costume and stage immediately. This was after their breakup. Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized he had been watching her even then. Every performance she thought she'd given without him, he had somehow been there, capturing her on paper, preserving her memories.

Finally, she reached the last page. A sketch of her in Scotland, dancing against a backdrop of the serene Scottish Highlands. The strokes were softer, almost reverent. At the bottom, his handwriting sprawled across the page, and she leaned in to read, her tears spilling over.

"After three long years, I saw you, You stood before me, radiant and breathtaking, as if no time had passed. My heart raced, my feet wanted to move toward you, but I stood frozen. I wanted to rush to you, Mishti, to hold you, to bury my face in your neck and breathe you in. I wanted to tell you how much I missed you, how incomplete every day felt without your smile.

That performance...God, I can still feel my chest tightening as I remember it. Watching you dance was like watching poetry in motion. Every step you took, every expression on your face, made me want to stand up and cheer for you the loudest. I wanted to tell the world how proud I am of you, of how far you've come.

Mishti, you're my inspiration, my muse, my everything. No matter how much time or distance separates us, you'll always be the one who lights up my soul.

I never stopped loving you, not for a second. And I never will."

Siya placed the sketchbook back on the table with trembling hands, her heart pounding in her chest. Tears streamed down her face as she tried to make sense of the overwhelming emotions swirling inside her. Her fingers brushed against her lips, as though trying to stifle the sobs threatening to escape.

Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Shashwat stepped in, his face a mixture of surprise and concern. "Siya?" he called out softly, his voice low and tentative.

She froze, her back to him, her hand still covering her mouth. She didn't respond immediately, trying to compose herself. But her body betrayed her, her shoulders shaking as a muffled sob escaped her lips.

"Siya?" Shashwat called again, this time more firmly, taking a step closer. The tenderness in his voice broke the fragile dam she had built around her emotions. Slowly, she turned to face him, her tear-streaked face exposing the turmoil she felt.

The concern in his eyes deepened as he saw her state. "Kya hua? Tum ro kyun rahi ho?" he asked, his brows furrowed. He instinctively took another step forward, his hand lifting toward her face.

Siya didn't answer, her gaze locked with his, a silent storm brewing in her eyes. She took hesitant steps toward him, her breath hitching as she closed the gap between them.

Shashwat's hand reached her cheek, his thumb gently wiping away a tear. "Siya," he whispered, his voice barely audible, as if speaking any louder would shatter the moment.

Her eyes fluttered shut at his touch, a part of her wanting to melt into his arms and demand answers. Why did he push her away if he loved her so deeply? Why did he let her endure the pain alone?

But just as the air between them grew heavy with unspoken emotions, Tara's voice echoed from the hallway.

"Siya! Kidhar reh gayi? Neeche sab wait kar rahe hain!" Tara called out, her footsteps approaching the room.

The spell was broken in an instant. Siya stepped back abruptly, her heart racing. She wiped her tears quickly, avoiding his gaze as she turned toward the door.

After finishing his tea, he composed himself and made his way downstairs to join everyone. The room was bustling with chatter and laughter as the Malhotras and Rajvanshs picked out bangles and dresses. Shashwat quietly sat down, initially beside Akash, but the proximity to him was unsettling. Without a word, he got up and moved to sit beside Reyansh, only to realize Siya was now beside him.

She was engrossed in selecting bangles, her delicate fingers trying on different designs. Shashwat couldn't help but glance at her hands, noting the care with which she chose each piece. She picked up a set of silver bangles and tried them on, but his eyes immediately caught a flaw.

His brows furrowed as he leaned closer, his voice low and firm. "Toota hai wo," he whispered, pointing at the slightly broken bangle on her wrist.

Startled, Siya paused and looked down at the bangle, then at his hand gently holding her wrist. Her eyes lingered for a moment before he realized what he was doing and let go abruptly, clearing his throat and sitting back. She quietly removed the broken bangle and placed it aside, her expression unreadable.

Across the room, Akash watched the interaction with a knowing smirk. He grinned mischievously, and before Reyansh could respond, Akash gave him a subtle shove.

Caught off guard, Reyansh stumbled, bumping into Shashwat, who lost his balance and fell forward slightly-right onto Siya. Their faces were suddenly inches apart, her wide eyes meeting his surprised ones. The air between them felt thick with unspoken words, tension crackling like static electricity.

Shashwat quickly straightened up, stepping back as his face turned red. "Pagal hai kya tu!" he snapped at Reyansh, his voice sharp with embarrassment.

Reyansh, confused, started to defend himself. "Maine nahi-"

But before he could finish, Akash pinched his arm hard, cutting him off. "Arre chup reh!" Akash muttered, smirking to himself.

The chaos of the house seemed far away as Shashwat's eyes locked onto the delicate red bangle set. The vibrant color called out to him as if it were made specifically for her, and a strange pull surged within him. His heart urged him to take it, even though he knew he couldn't-he shouldn't. His eyes flicked around the room, noticing that everyone was occupied with their own conversations, unaware of his quiet escape.

With swift hands, he picked up the set and quickly made his way to his room, determined to hide his emotions before anyone could question them.

Meanwhile, the sounds of laughter and chatter continued downstairs, with Arav's voice cutting through the noise, "Isko kya ho gaya?"

"Washroom lagi hogi zor se," Darsh answered, not even looking up from his phone.

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

Arushi, having just ended a call, walked back toward the gathering, her mind elsewhere. She was startled when a firm hand grasped hers, pulling her quickly into the kitchen. Before she could react, she was pressed against the cool door, her breath catching in her throat as she looked up into the mischievous eyes of Reyansh.

Her heart skipped a beat, a mix of surprise and frustration flooding her. "Tumhari ye harkat kab band hogi!" she hissed, glaring at him as her heart thudded in her chest. "And why do you always find the kitchen to do romance?"

Reyansh leaned in slightly, his breath warm against her ear. "Toh tumhare room me chalen?" he teased, a devilish smirk on his lips.

Arushi rolled her eyes, her face flushing with irritation-and something else. "You are being so badtameez day by day." She tried to push him away, but his grip on her wrist only tightened, drawing her closer to him.

"Shareef kab tha mai," he said, his voice low, almost a growl, as he looked into her eyes, the playful teasing now replaced by something more intense, more dangerous.

Reyansh pulled his hand from his pocket, and to Arushi's surprise, he revealed a delicate red bangle set. The bright hue sparkled in the dim light of the kitchen.

"I selected this for you," he murmured, his voice softening as he handed the packet to her.

Arushi's eyes widened with surprise and warmth as she took the package, her fingers brushing against his . She smiled, her heart fluttering at the thought of him picking something out for her. She opened the package, revealing the stunning bangles.

Without a word, Reyansh gently took one of the bangles from the set, his fingers brushing over her wrist as he carefully slid it on. His touch was slow, deliberate, every movement drawing her closer into the moment. The cool metal of the bangle contrasted with the heat of his skin, sending shivers up her arm.

Arushi admired the bangles on her wrist, her smile soft and genuine. "It's so pretty," she said, her voice light with appreciation as she tilted her wrist to admire the delicate design.

Reyansh leaned closer, his eyes fixed on her with a teasing glint. "Because it's on your wrist, na, he replied, his words smooth and filled with affection.

Arushi laughed softly, shaking her head at his flirtatious tone. "Thank you," she said, her smile growing wider as she looked up at him.

Reyansh crossed his arms, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "Mujhe return gift toh do, he demanded, his voice low and mischievous.

Arushi blinked, surprised. "Kya? Abhi I don't have anything... kal de dungi," she replied earnestly, unsure of what he meant.

But Reyansh shook his head, stepping closer to her. "Tum chhoro,' he murmured, his tone dropping to a whisper as his hand brushed her cheek, "I'll take it myself."

Before Arushi could respond, his lips pressed softly against hers, catching her by surprise. Her breath hitched, her heart racing as the world around them seemed to blur into nothingness. His kiss was gentle yet deliberate, his hand resting lightly on her waist as he drew her closer. The warmth of his touch sent shivers down her spine, and for a moment, she let herself melt into him.

Reyansh tilted his head slightly, deepening the kiss just enough to make her knees feel weak. Time seemed to stretch as her hands instinctively rested on his chest, her heartbeat echoing in her ears.

When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested lightly against hers. His dark eyes gazed into hers, a smile playing on his lips. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice low and husky.

Arushi's cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she blinked up at him, struggling to steady her breathing. Before she could gather her thoughts, he leaned in and lightly nipped her cheek, making her gasp.

"Reyansh!" she exclaimed, giggling despite her embarrassment. "Mai maar dungi tumhe!"

Reyansh's heart raced as Arushi pulled away from his grasp and ran a few steps away, giggling mischievously. He smiled to himself, enjoying the playful chase, and without thinking, reached out to grab her again, pulling her back towards him. But his smile quickly faded as his eyes widened in shock. He stopped mid-motion, seeing Harsh standing just a few feet away, looking both startled and confused.

"Arrey!" Harsh exclaimed, his voice laced with surprise. He was in the middle of walking by when Reyansh had yanked him, and now, seeing the situation, his confusion turned to realization. Harsh blinked a few times, and before Reyansh could react, Harsh raised his hand and slapped him lightly across the back of his head.

"Kya kar raha hai ye?? Dimag kharab hai kya!" Harsh scolded, his tone sharp with disbelief. Reyansh froze, his eyes wide, his mouth opening but finding no words as his mind scrambled for an explanation.

Before he could muster a response, Arushi took the opportunity to escape, running out of the kitchen and away from the awkward situation. Reyansh felt a pang of regret but couldn't do anything about it now.

He stuttered, trying to find his footing. "P...p...p...Papa... aap..." he managed, his voice barely above a whisper as he looked at Harsh, who was now standing there with an incredulous expression.

"Han mai...kyun? Kyun tujhe kya laga, kon hai jisse aise kheecha tune?" Harsh's voice dropped to a low, stern tone, his eyes narrowing in suspicion as he waited for an explanation.

"Woh... I thought it's Shashwat," Reyansh said hurriedly, his face turning red with embarrassment, and his gaze shifting away from his father's accusing look.

Harsh's eyes widened in disbelief, his suspicion mounting as he took a step forward. "Kyun? Usko kyun kheechega aise? Reyansh, tell me clearly... kya chal raha hai?" His voice was a mix of confusion and concern.

Reyansh's heart pounded in his chest, and he gulped, realizing just how awkward this situation had become. "I... I mean... Papa... you are getting it wrong. Woh... Shahswat ne meri funny picture click kar li thi aur bhag raha tha, toh I was catching him," he quickly blurted out, hoping the story would sound believable enough to calm Harsh's suspicions. He gave a nervous laugh, trying to brush off the tension, but it was clear that Harsh wasn't convinced.

Harsh looked at him for a long moment, suspicion still written across his face. Then, without another word, he smacked the back of Reyansh's head lightly. "Nalayak kahin ka!" he muttered in frustration, before shaking his head and walking off, leaving Reyansh standing there, feeling a mix of embarrassment and relief.

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

"Swami, what is the surprise? Jaldi chaliye na," Ritika urged, her voice a mix of curiosity and excitement as she walked alongside Arav. He had been teasing her about a surprise all day, and now, as they approached their room, her anticipation was building. Arav, with a playful glint in his eye, kept his hand over her eyes, guiding her step by step.

With a soft click, the door to their room opened, and Arav slowly removed his hand from her eyes. As she blinked a few times to adjust, Ritika's gaze landed on a beautiful red bridal lehenga, intricately designed with delicate patterns of gold. The colors swirled together in a mesmerizing blend of red and gold, catching the light in a way that made it seem almost magical. Her breath hitched as she took a step forward, her hand reaching out instinctively to touch the fabric.

Her mouth fell open in awe. "Swami... this is... this is so beautiful," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion as she picked up the lehenga slightly, her fingers brushing against the rich material. A feeling of disbelief washed over her, as the memory of a conversation long past came rushing back.

Flashback

It was a lazy afternoon in college, and Arav was sitting at his desk, furiously taking notes for an upcoming exam. Meanwhile, Ritika sat beside him, scrolling aimlessly through Pinterest, her mind wandering until a particular image caught her eye. She gasped in excitement, turning her phone toward Arav.

"Swami, see this lehenga!" she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up