Devansh sat on the couch in the balcony, the cool New York breeze brushing against his face. Holding his phone, he spoke with Kabir, a faint smirk playing on his lips as he leaned back comfortably.

Devansh said, “Wah Kabir, finally tujhse bhi kisi ne ‘haan’ bol diya. Mujhe toh lagta tha tu zindagi bhar flirting aur jokes mein hi busy rahega.”

On the other end, Kabir scoffed in response.

“Arre oye, zyada ud mat. Tu khud toh abhi tak apni biwi ko properly propose nahi kar paya, aur mujhe lecture de raha hai?” Kabir replied.

Devansh chuckled darkly, his eyes narrowing with amusement.

“Tujhe lagta hai mujhe propose karne ke liye shayari aur ring ki zarurat hai? Mere presence se hi uske saare jawaab nikal jaate hain,” he said confidently.

Kabir laughed loudly.

“Presence? Haan haan… aur phir bhi bechari abhi tak yeh sochti hai ki tu usse pyaar karta bhi hai ya nahi. Bada presence hai tera,” Kabir teased.

Devansh’s smirk faltered slightly, his jaw tightening. A brief pause followed, noticeable to Kabir.

In a serious tone, Kabir said, “Dev… ab mazaak chhod. Tu aur Ananya ek dusre ke liye bane ho. Lekin tu khud ko piche kyu rok raha hai?”

Leaning forward, Devansh rested his elbows on his knees and stared out at the skyline.

“Kabir, it’s not that simple. Zindagi ne mujhe dikhaya hai… khushiyan kabhi tikti nahi. Mujhe darr hai… ki agar maine apne dil ki baat keh di, aur phir kuch kho diya toh?” he confessed quietly.

Kabir fell silent for a moment, then his voice softened.

“Aur agar tu chup raha toh? Kya guarantee hai ki kal ko der na ho jaaye? Dev… relationships mein risk lena padta hai. Ira ne mujhe accept kiya toh mujhe laga jaise duniya ruk gayi ho. Agar maine bhi darr ke wajah se chup raha hota, toh shayad aaj main usse apni keh hi nahi pata,” Kabir said earnestly.

Devansh tilted his head; Kabir’s words struck deeper than he cared to admit. He let out a dry chuckle.

“Tu bhi na… philosopher banta jaa raha hai. Kabir Malhotra the love guru,” Devansh remarked.

Kabir grinned. “Kisi ko toh banana hi tha. Tu toh apne dark humour mein busy rehta hai.”

Devansh smirked faintly, though his eyes showed a flicker of thoughtfulness. He glanced toward the room where Ananya was, and for a brief moment, the mask of arrogance slipped away.

The next morning, the city basked in soft golden light. Devansh and Ananya stepped out of their car at Battery Park, where the air buzzed with the chatter of tourists and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore.

Ananya’s eyes lit up with excitement as the iconic silhouette of the Statue of Liberty came into view from a distance.

“Dev! We’re actually going to see her up close. Can you believe it? Lady Liberty herself!” she exclaimed with a bright smile.

Devansh slipped his hands into his pockets, watching her with an amused expression. “Tumhe dekh kar toh mujhe lagta hai tumhe New York ke buildings aur statues mujhse zyada pasand aa rahe hain,” he teased.

She turned to him, playfully sticking out her tongue. “Arre, tum toh ho hi… abhi tak New York ki list mein add nahi kiya tha,” she replied.

Laughing, Devansh shook his head as they boarded the ferry. The crisp breeze swept past them, causing Ananya’s dupatta to flutter behind her. She leaned against the railing, her wide eyes taking in every detail of the skyline, while the distant statue grew larger with each passing moment.

Devansh, however, was focused not on the statue but on her—the flush on her cheeks, the childlike joy shining in her eyes.

Upon arriving at Liberty Island, Ananya almost raced ahead, craning her neck to admire the towering figure.

“She’s so beautiful… so powerful. Just standing here feels… surreal,” she murmured in awe.

Devansh stepped up behind her, his hand brushing against hers before gently intertwining their fingers.

“Surreal indeed,” he said softly, almost to himself.

Ananya caught the intensity of his gaze, and for a brief moment, her breath caught. She quickly looked away, masking it with a nervous smile.

They explored the pedestal and the museum together, with Ananya asking curious questions and Devansh responding patiently, occasionally adding his characteristic teasing.

Pointing at the flame replica in the museum, Ananya remarked, “Imagine holding something like that for centuries.”

With a smirk, Devansh replied, “I can’t imagine holding anything for centuries. But I can imagine holding one stubborn woman forever.”

Ananya gasped, her cheeks flushing. “Devansh!” she exclaimed.

Devansh chuckled quietly. “What? I’m just stating facts, Mrs. Singhania.”

By the time they reached the crown, the panoramic view stretched endlessly before them—the skyline, the water, and the world beyond. Ananya pressed her palms to the glass, eyes shining with wonder.

“It’s like… freedom itself is staring back at you,” she said softly.

Standing close behind her, Devansh’s warmth was tangible. His voice lowered to a near whisper, blending with the city’s hum below.

“Or maybe… it’s a reminder that sometimes, letting go of fear is the only way to feel free.”

Ananya slowly turned, surprised by the depth of his words. Their eyes met, and though no words were spoken, the moment enveloped them—intimate, unspoken, and undeniable.

On their return journey, the ferry rocked gently as the salty breeze played with Ananya’s hair. She leaned against the railing, arms wrapped around herself, still enveloped in the lingering glow from their time at the crown.

Devansh stood beside her, arms crossed, his keen eyes fixed on her.

Ananya suddenly grinned. “You know, Mr. Singhania… for someone who pretends to hate touristy things, you were staring at me way more than the statue.”

Raising an eyebrow with a faint smirk, Devansh replied, “Of course. Why would I waste my time looking at cold metal when I already have something far more distracting in front of me?”

Ananya’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she lightly swatted his arm. “Flirt mat karo, Mr. Singhania. Main seriously bol rahi hoon.”

Leaning closer, his voice lowered to a soft tone. “Main bhi seriously bol raha hoon, Mrs. Singhania.”

Her breath caught, and she quickly turned away, attempting to hide her blush by focusing on the waves.

Muttering under her breath, she said, “Yeh aadmi na… kabhi toh seedhe simple baat kar liya kare.”

Devansh heard her and chuckled darkly. “Seedha-simple boring hota hai. Tumhe toh pata hai mujhe boring pasand nahi.”

Ananya rolled her eyes, though the smile on her lips remained.

As the ferry neared the dock, she gently tugged at his sleeve. “Thank you, Dev… for today.”

For a moment, Devansh’s expression was unreadable. Then, without speaking, he reached out and tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear.

Softly, he said, “Get used to it, Anu. This is just the beginning.”

Her heart skipped a beat, and for once, she remained silent.

The ferry was still slicing through the waves, the soft evening glow spilling across the horizon. Ananya stood at the railing, the cool wind brushing against her face. She was so lost in the view—the merging colors of the sky and sea—that she didn’t notice when Devansh quietly stepped closer.

Without a word, his arms snaked around her waist from behind, pulling her gently into his chest. The sudden warmth of his body against her back made her breath hitch. Her fingers instinctively moved over his hands resting on her stomach, holding him there.

“Dev…” she whispered, her voice barely audible above the breeze.

But he didn’t reply. Instead, he lowered his head, his breath hot against the side of her neck. A shiver ran down her spine before his lips brushed her skin—soft, slow, deliberate.

Ananya’s eyes fluttered shut.

He lingered there, kissing the sensitive spot just below her ear, making her knees feel weak. His lips moved in an unhurried trail down to the curve of her shoulder, each kiss scorching yet tender, leaving her trembling.

Her hand gripped the railing tightly, the only thing stopping her from turning completely in his arms and melting into him.

“Dev…” she tried again, but this time her voice cracked, betraying her.

A dark smirk curved against her skin as he whispered huskily, “Shhh… just feel, Mrs. Singhania.”

He kissed the hollow of her throat, then returned to the side of her neck, this time parting his lips slightly, leaving hot, open-mouthed kisses that made her heart pound uncontrollably. His stubble grazed her soft skin, adding a teasing roughness to the gentleness of his lips.

When his teeth gently grazed her skin, she gasped, her hands flying to clutch his forearms tighter. He soothed the spot immediately with a tender kiss, as though apologizing, but the fire in his eyes betrayed that he was anything but sorry.

Ananya tilted her head unconsciously, giving him more access.

And Devansh… he didn’t waste it. His lips moved over every inch of the skin his mouth could claim, slow, teasing, deliberate, as though branding her with his touch.

“Dev…” she breathed out again, this time almost a plea, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

He finally pulled back just enough to look at her flushed face, his lips brushing the shell of her ear as he whispered, dark humor lacing his tone—

“Careful, Mrs. Singhania. Keep shivering like this and people might think I pushed you into the cold water… but we both know it’s not the sea that’s making you tremble.”

Her knees nearly gave out at that, and she leaned fully into him, her cheeks crimson, her heart betraying her calm façade.

Ananya’s breath was uneven, her chest rising and falling with every stolen kiss. Devansh felt her body melt against him, but he wasn’t done—not yet.

His lips lingered at her ear before he whispered, low and dark, “Turn around, Ananya.”

Her heart skipped. For a moment, she froze, her fingers tightening on the railing. But when his hands gently pressed her waist, urging her to face him, she gave in. Slowly, she turned, her wide eyes meeting his dark, unreadable ones.

Now, with nothing but a breath of space between them, Devansh’s gaze roamed over her flushed face, her parted lips, the nervous rise and fall of her chest. His thumb brushed her cheekbone, trailing lightly down to her jaw, before stopping at her chin.

“You blush like this,” he murmured, tilting her face up, “and you expect me to stop?”

Her lips parted to answer, but no words came.

Devansh smirked faintly, then leaned closer, his lips brushing against her temple, her cheek, tracing dangerously close to her mouth but never quite reaching it. His restraint was both a tease and a torment.

“Dev…” she whispered, her voice trembling between plea and warning.

He kissed the corner of her lips, barely touching, enough to make her pulse race. Then his hand slid down her side, resting on her waist again, holding her firmly in place.

“Careful, Mrs. Singhania,” he said darkly, his breath hot against her skin, “one more shiver, and I might just forget we’re standing in public.”

Her eyes widened, and she shoved lightly at his chest, muttering, “Tum pagal ho gaye ho.”

Devansh chuckled—a low, dangerous sound—catching her hand mid-push, intertwining his fingers with hers.

“Maybe,” he said, pulling her even closer, “but if this is madness, I don’t want to be sane.”

Her knees nearly buckled, but his hold was unrelenting, his gaze locked onto hers, daring her to look away.

Ananya’s arms slipped around him suddenly, almost desperately, as if words had failed and her only language left was touch. Devansh froze for a fraction of a second, startled by the unexpected closeness, before his arms instinctively wrapped around her in return, pulling her flush against him.

The world around them faded—the gentle crash of waves against the shore, the distant hum of tourists, the whisper of wind tugging at her all of it blurred into nothingness. There was only this—her heartbeat thudding against his chest, his warmth seeping through her, the quiet safety of being held as if nothing could touch them here.

Ananya buried her face against him, breathing in the familiar scent of his cologne mixed with the crisp saltiness of the sea breeze. Her lashes fluttered shut as her lips curved into the faintest, invisible smile. The turmoil inside her stilled, the questions, the confusions, the fears—everything melted in that one embrace.

Devansh’s grip tightened ever so slightly, his jaw pressing against the top of her head. His body relaxed in her hold, his usual steel-like composure softening into something raw and unguarded. His fingers spread protectively across her back, as though even the air itself wasn’t allowed to touch her without his permission.

Time seemed to stretch. Neither moved. Neither spoke. The silence wasn’t heavy, nor was it awkward—it was healing. It was as if both of them had been carrying invisible weights, and in that moment, in each other’s arms, they set them down.

Her hair tickled his jaw, and the soft fabric of her brushed against his knuckles as he held her tighter, unwilling to let go. His eyes closed, not in exhaustion, but in surrender—to the peace he only ever felt with her.

Ananya’s chest rose and fell against his steadily, as though their breaths had fallen into sync. The warmth that radiated from him cocooned her, anchoring her to the present, to him, to them. For a long while, they simply stood like that—two souls saying nothing, but feeling everything.

By the time they returned to their hotel room, the sun had long dipped below the horizon, leaving only the city lights of New York twinkling outside the wide glass windows. Devansh had slipped into the washroom for a quick shower, while Ananya sat cross-legged on the bed, her phone pressed to her ear.

“Yes mumma…” her voice softened instantly, warm with affection.

On the other side, Meenakshi’s voice was brimming with delight. “Anu beta! How are you? You’ve been out of touch the whole day.”

Ananya smiled, her eyes flickering toward the balcony where the night breeze fluttered the curtains. “We were out exploring, Maa. Devansh took me to the Statue of Liberty today.”

“Achha? Aur kaisa laga tumhe?” Meenakshi’s tone held motherly curiosity.

“Bahut accha laga, Maa,” Ananya replied, her cheeks flushing faintly as she remembered Devansh’s arms around her earlier. “It was… special.”

Meenakshi chuckled knowingly. “Special, hmm? I can hear that smile in your voice, beta. I’m glad my Devansh is finally giving you time. Yeh ladka kaam mein itna uljha rehta hai, kabhi kabhi mujhe darr lagta tha ke tum bore ho jaogi.”

Ananya shook her head quickly, even though her mother-in-law couldn’t see. “Nahi Mumma, aisa kuch bhi nahi hai. He’s… he’s wonderful. Kabhi kabhi thoda khadoos zaroor lagta hai…” she giggled softly, lowering her voice as though Devansh could hear, “…lekin dil se bohot achha hain.”

There was a pause, and then Meenakshi’s voice softened with emotion. “Bas, mujhe yahi sunna tha. Tum dono khush raho, ek-dusre ka saath nibhate raho. Mujhe bas yahi chahiye.”

Ananya’s throat tightened a little. “Ha mumma,” she whispered, her heart full.

At that moment, Devansh stepped out of the washroom, towel draped around his shoulders, his damp hair slightly ruffled. He paused, seeing Ananya’s glowing face as she listened to his mother. Something in his chest stirred—an emotion both grounding and unfamiliar.

Ananya noticed him and gave a small smile, mouthing, Mumma se baat ho rahi hai.

Devansh just nodded, quietly watching her as she laughed at something Meenakshi said. For once, his usual stern expression softened completely, replaced with a quiet tenderness he didn’t even realize he was wearing.

“Accha Anu,” Meenakshi’s gentle voice came through, “Devansh kahan hai? Mujhe usse bhi baat karni hai.”

Ananya’s eyes flickered to Devansh, who was standing a few feet away, drying his hair with the towel, watching her with that unreadable gaze. She smiled softly and said, “Mumma ko tumse baat karni hai.”

Devansh raised an eyebrow but came forward, taking the phone from Ananya’s hand. She gave him an encouraging nod before he pressed it to his ear.

“Maa…” his voice, usually firm and businesslike, softened noticeably.

“Haan, mera beta. Kaisa hai? Ananya ko toh khush kar raha hai na?”

Devansh’s lips twitched faintly, and his eyes flickered toward Ananya, who was watching him intently, trying to read his expression. “She seems happy, Maa. I’m… trying.”

Ananya’s heart skipped a beat at that—he never admitted such things easily.

Meenakshi chuckled warmly on the other end. “Bas yahi chahiye mujhe, beta. Tum dono ek-dusre ke saath khush raho. Ananya meri beti hai, uska khayal rakhna.”

“Always,” Devansh said firmly, his tone leaving no space for doubt.

Ananya blinked, her chest tightening at the weight of that one word.

Devansh stepped out into the balcony, phone pressed to his ear. The evening breeze played with his hair, but his mind was focused on the voice at the other end.

“Devansh,” Meenakshi said softly, her tone warm yet firm, “kab tak apne dil ke aas-paas yeh deewar banakar rakhoge, beta? Tumhare zakhm main jaanti hoon… par zindagi rukti nahi hai.”

He leaned against the railing, jaw tight, eyes fixed on the city lights. “Maa…” His voice faltered before he caught himself. “It’s not that easy.”

“I know,” she said patiently, “lekin ab waqt aa gaya hai move on karne ka. Tumhare saamne Ananya hai… usme woh sab kuch hai jo tumhe khushi de sakta hai. Tum bas apna dil uske liye khol do.”

Devansh ran a hand through his hair, conflicted. “Maa… main… main dar jaata hoon. Kya main phir se kisi ko khona bardasht kar paunga?”

“Yahi toh,” Meenakshi replied gently, “Ananya tumhari majboori nahi hai, woh tumhari taqat ban sakti hai. Usse apni zindagi ka hissa banao, beta. Mujhe sirf itna wada karo… ki tum khud ko ek mauka doge.”

Silence lingered for a beat. Devansh’s throat tightened, but finally, he let out a sigh. “Theek hai, Maa. Main koshish karunga.”

“That’s all I want, Dev,” she said with motherly affection. “Khush raho… aur Ananya ko bhi khush rakho. Tum dono ek-dusre ke liye bane ho.”

He closed his eyes for a moment, absorbing her words. “Goodnight, Maa.”

“Goodnight, beta.”

The call ended.

Devansh slipped his phone into his pocket and turned. His eyes immediately softened—Ananya was curled against the headboard, fast asleep, her head tilted slightly to the side, strands of hair brushing her cheeks. She looked so peaceful, so untouched by the storms that raged inside him.

Quietly, he walked inside. With utmost care, he slid an arm behind her shoulders, gently lowering her onto the bed. She stirred faintly but didn’t wake. Devansh pulled the duvet over her, tucking it around her like she was something fragile.

He sat beside her, gazing at her face in the dim light. His mother’s words echoed in his ears.

“Mom is right…” he whispered to himself, voice husky. “And I have to do it.”

Taking a deep breath, he leaned closer. For the first time in years, a soft smile curved his lips. He pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead, his voice low against her skin.

“Get ready, Mrs. Singhania…” A smile tugged deeper at his lips. “…because you’re about to get all of me.”

With that, he leaned back, still watching her, as though promising himself and her both that things were about to change.

The next morning, the sunlight streamed through the glass panes of the upscale New York shopping mall. Ananya weaved through the crowd, her excitement barely contained, while Devansh trailed behind, his gaze flitting between her and the boutique displays.

“Dev, look at this!” Ananya exclaimed, holding up a bright red dress. “Doesn’t it scream ‘me’?” She twirled slightly, the fabric catching the light.

Devansh’s jaw tightened in amusement. “Screaming loudly enough for the entire mall to hear, yes,” he said with a smirk, stepping closer to examine the dress on her. “But it’s… actually really pretty.”

Ananya beamed, holding the dress against her. “See! I knew you’d approve. You have good taste, Mr. Singhania.”

“Only when it comes to you,” he replied smoothly, his eyes briefly lingering on her cheeks as she turned, caught between twirling and admiring herself in the mirror.

They moved to the next boutique, Ananya darting from rack to rack. “Oh, this one! Dev, what do you think?” she held up a soft blue blouse with delicate embroidery.

“Hmm…” he studied it carefully, pretending to ponder. “It’s nice… but I like it more on you than on the hanger,” he teased, and she shot him a glare that melted the teasing smile on his face.

“Stop complimenting everything I try on!” she said, but her lips twitched with a smile.

Devansh chuckled softly, slipping an arm around her waist as they moved toward the next store. “Not my fault. You make it hard to say anything else.”

Ananya leaned into him as they walked, her head brushing against his chest. “You’re impossible, you know that?”

“And you’re addictive,” he murmured, his eyes twinkling as he watched her playful grin.

They continued shopping, laughing over silly accessories, debating over handbags, and trying on sunglasses. Devansh occasionally carried bags she couldn’t manage, his hand brushing against hers whenever they moved between stores. Each touch sent a tiny thrill through her, and she caught him watching her more than once, his gaze lingering longer than necessary.

Finally, they took a pause near a café inside the mall. Ananya flopped into a chair, tossing her shopping haul beside her. “Okay, I need a break before I try on another dozen things,” she said, wiping her forehead dramatically.

Devansh leaned back against the chair beside her, smirking. “Breaks are fine… as long as you’re next to me during them.”

She looked at him, her heart fluttering. “Hmm, I guess I can manage that.”

Their laughter mingled with the soft mall music, the hum of shoppers fading into the background. For a moment, it was just the two of them—laughing, teasing, and enjoying the simplicity of being together.

Devansh leaned slightly toward her, a teasing glint in his eyes. “So, Mrs. Singhania… be ready. There’s a surprise for you tonight,” he said, his voice low and playful, brushing against her ear as he spoke.

Ananya paused mid-scroll through the racks, looking up at him with wide eyes. “A surprise?” she asked, her tone a mixture of curiosity and mischief. “Are you finally admitting that you’re going to spoil me?”

Devansh smirked, his hand brushing lightly over hers as he handed her a small shopping bag. “Spoiling you is my full-time job,” he replied smoothly, his gaze locking on hers. “But tonight… I promise it’ll be worth the wait.”

Ananya’s cheeks flushed lightly, and she tried to hide her excitement behind a playful pout. “Hmm… I’ll hold you to that, Mr. Singhania,” she said, teasingly wagging a finger at him.

“Good,” he said, a soft chuckle escaping him. “Now finish up here so we can go. I don’t like keeping my Mrs. Singhania waiting.”

Ananya couldn’t help but grin, her heart fluttering at the thought of whatever he had planned.

Ananya tucked the shopping bag under her arm and moved toward the next boutique, her eyes scanning racks of colorful dresses. Devansh followed, his hands tucked casually into his pockets, but his gaze never left her. He watched the way her fingers lingered on fabrics, the slight tilt of her head when something caught her eye, and he felt a small, quiet warmth spreading in his chest.

“Mrs. Singhania,” he drawled, leaning closer so his breath tickled her ear, “you know you don’t need to try everything on, right? I already know anything will look stunning on you.”

Ananya rolled her eyes, laughing softly. “Oh really? Since when do you have such impeccable taste, Mr. Singhania?” She swung around to face him, her cheeks flushed, but there was a playful sparkle in her eyes.

“Since the moment I realized I have the most beautiful woman in the world to shop with,” he said smoothly, giving her a wink.

She stopped in her tracks, a little flustered, and flicked her finger at him. “Stop being so dramatic! You’re making me blush in public.”

“Good,” he replied, his lips curling into a teasing smirk. “I like it when my Mrs. Singhania blushes.”

They moved from boutique to boutique, laughing, teasing, and occasionally stealing soft glances at each other. Devansh helped her pick up a few elegant scarves, making playful comments about which colors would suit her. Ananya, in turn, flicked at his tie or jacket occasionally, pretending to critique him, but secretly loving how attentive he was.

At one point, Ananya picked up a flowing dress and held it up against herself. “Hmm… what do you think? Should I try this one?” she asked, looking at him over her shoulder.

Devansh’s eyes darkened slightly, captivated by how the fabric draped along her curves even without her stepping into the fitting room. “You? Try it? You don’t need to,” he said in a low, almost dangerous tone. “You’d look irresistible in anything… anything at all.”

Ananya smirked, though her cheeks flushed even more. “You really like to hear yourself talk, don’t you?” she teased, moving toward the changing rooms.

“Maybe,” Devansh replied, his voice softening as he watched her disappear behind the curtain. “But I also like watching you. And right now… I can’t stop.”

Minutes later, Ananya emerged in the dress, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Well, do I get your seal of approval, Mr. Singhania?”

He stepped closer, circling her slowly, his eyes lingering on every movement. “Approval? Mrs. Singhania… I’m more than approved. I’m… speechless.” He smirked, then added in a low, teasing voice, “But don’t get too full of yourself. We still have that surprise tonight.”

Ananya rolled her eyes, but she felt her heart flutter at his words. “You really know how to keep a woman on edge, don’t you?” she murmured, her tone softening.

“And you love it,” he said simply, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face.

As they continued their shopping, laughter and playful bickering filling the mall aisles, both of them knew that the evening would be unforgettable. And though neither could say it aloud yet, the air between them was thick with anticipation… and the promise of something far deeper.

Ananya flopped dramatically onto the couch, stretching her arms above her head. “Ugh… that was exhausting! I swear, I walked more in the past two hours than I did in a week!”

Devansh chuckled, kneeling to gather her shopping bags. “Exhausting, huh? Mrs. Singhania, I think you secretly enjoy this chaos.” He carefully set the bags aside and glanced at her with a teasing smirk.

“I do not!” she protested, throwing a cushion at him. “I’m tired. Dead tired!”

He caught the cushion effortlessly, letting it rest on his shoulder. “Hmm… sure. Tired, huh? Looks like someone needs a rest… or maybe a little pampering.” His gaze softened as he walked toward her.

Ananya raised an eyebrow, smirking despite herself. “Pampering? I like the sound of that… but you better not get any funny ideas, Mr. Singhania.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it… for now,” he said, kneeling in front of her and gently brushing a stray hair from her face. “Sit tight. I’ll unpack these bags and make sure you don’t have to lift a finger.”

Ananya leaned back on the couch, letting out a dramatic sigh. “You’re spoiling me too much… but I guess I can survive this once or twice.”

Devansh grinned, his hand lingering near hers for a brief moment before he stood up. “Once or twice? Mrs. Singhania, you’ll learn that being with me is a full-time job.”

“And I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she murmured, a soft smile spreading across her lips as she watched him move efficiently among the shopping bags.

Ananya yawned dramatically, pushing herself off the couch. She walked over to the bed and collapsed onto it, stretching lazily. “I’m sleeping now, so do not disturb, Patidev,” she declared, her tone playful yet commanding.

Devansh raised an eyebrow, leaning against the doorframe, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “Patidev, huh? Very commanding today, Mrs. Singhania. I might have to take that very seriously.”

Ananya turned her head toward him, one eyebrow arched. “I insist you take it seriously. No arguments, no distractions, no funny business.”

He walked closer, the smirk never leaving his face. “Funny business… hmm, tempting. But I’ll behave… for now.”

She rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile playing on her lips. “Good. Now leave me to my beauty sleep, Patidev.”

Devansh chuckled softly, reaching out to tuck the blanket slightly around her. “Sleep well, Mrs. Singhania. I’ll be here if you change your mind about disturbing me.”

Ananya buried her face in the pillow, letting out a satisfied sigh. “I won’t, Patidev. Trust me.”

Devansh walked over and gently sat on the edge of the bed, keeping a careful distance. His gaze lingered on her as she lay there, her hair splayed across the pillow, her cheeks slightly flushed from her playful antics.

“You know,” he murmured, leaning closer so only she could hear, “it’s really hard to not disturb someone as adorable as you pretending to sleep.”

Ananya shifted slightly under the blanket, her eyes squeezed shut. “I am sleeping, Patidev. Do not test my patience.”

He chuckled, the sound low and teasing. “Oh, I’m not testing you… I’m merely observing. Scientific research.”

She let out a muffled groan into the pillow. “Scientific research, huh? That’s what you call it?”

“Yes,” he said with mock seriousness, leaning closer to brush a strand of hair from her face. “Observation is key. And right now, I’m observing the most beautiful Mrs. Singhania in the world… pretending to be asleep.”

Ananya’s lips twitched, and she couldn’t help but peek one eye open, only to catch him grinning at her. “Patidev…” she whispered, her voice both exasperated and amused.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” he replied softly, leaning in closer so their foreheads nearly touched. “Now, sleep… but remember, I’m right here. Always.”

She let out a content sigh, nuzzling back against the pillow, feeling his presence warm and reassuring. Slowly, her eyelids fell, but the small smile on her lips lingered even as she drifted toward sleep, comforted by him beside her.

Devansh sat on the edge of the bed, watching Ananya settle into the pillows, her shopping bags scattered around the room. He let out a soft sigh, a gentle smile tugging at his lips.

“Bas kuch der aur…” he murmured, leaning down to press a tender kiss on her forehead. Her eyelashes fluttered slightly as if sensing his presence, though she remained nestled comfortably into the bed.

He lingered for a moment, watching her peaceful expression, letting the quiet intimacy of the moment linger. Then, with one last glance, he stood up and quietly stepped out of the room, leaving her to rest, a faint smile still playing on his lips.

A few hours later, Ananya stirred awake, the soft light of the New York afternoon streaming through the curtains. She blinked a few times, stretching lazily, only to realize that Devansh wasn’t in the room. Her brows furrowed in confusion.

A gentle knock on the door pulled her attention. She rose from the bed and walked towards it, curiosity tinged with a hint of concern. Opening the door, she saw the butler standing there with a neatly wrapped package. He placed it carefully on the table and left without a word, disappearing down the corridor.

Ananya stared at the package, puzzled. Just then, her phone screen lit up with a notification. Picking it up, she saw a message from Devansh:

"Get ready for your surprise, Mrs. Singhania."

A soft, delighted smile spread across her lips. Her fingers trembled slightly as she reached for the package on the table. Carefully opening it, she gasped softly. Inside lay a stunning black net saree, delicately embroidered with shimmering sequins that caught the light with every movement. The intricate design highlighted the elegance of the fabric, flowing like liquid silk, while the sheer texture revealed just enough to accentuate her curves.

Heart fluttering, she carried the saree to the washroom. Moments later, she emerged from the bathrobe, carefully draping the black net saree over her. The saree clung to her body beautifully, tracing the curves of her waist and hips. The pallu fell gracefully over her shoulder, giving her an air of understated sensuality. She let her hair cascade in soft waves down her back, adding to the allure. She wore her nuptial chain around her neck, the sindoor neatly placed in the parting of her hair, a subtle reminder of the bond she shared.

Glancing at herself in the mirror, Ananya took a deep breath, savoring the transformation. Feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation, she picked up her phone and stepped outside, ready for whatever surprise Devansh had in store.

No sooner had Ananya stepped outside than her phone lit up again with a message from Devansh:

"Sit in the car. The driver will bring you here."

A soft smile curved her lips, her heartbeat quickening with anticipation. She took a moment to steady herself, smoothing the saree over her waist and shoulders, before making her way down the hotel lobby.

Outside, the sleek black car waited, its polished surface reflecting the golden afternoon light. The driver opened the door as she approached, and she slid gracefully into the plush leather seat. The soft hum of the engine and the subtle scent of leather welcomed her as she settled in, her fingers brushing the delicate fabric of the saree over her lap.

As the car began to move, Ananya leaned back slightly, her thoughts dancing between excitement and curiosity. Where had Devansh brought her? What surprise awaited her? A thrill ran down her spine as the cityscape of New York blurred past the window, the anticipation of the unknown making her pulse race.

The car came to a gentle halt, and Ananya stepped out, the soft breeze of New York ruffling her hair and the delicate fabric of her saree. She blinked, her eyes widening at the sight before her. The location was nothing short of breathtaking—a rooftop garden overlooking the shimmering city skyline. Twinkling fairy lights were draped elegantly along the edges, soft lanterns glowing, and the gentle hum of water from a small fountain nearby created a serene, magical ambiance. The golden hues of the sunset reflected off the skyscrapers, painting the entire scene in warm tones, leaving Ananya almost speechless.

Her breath hitched as she slowly turned—and there he was. Devansh. Standing at a short distance, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and trim waist. The crisp white shirt beneath contrasted sharply, his tie impeccably tied. His hair slightly tousled, his piercing gaze fixed on her—it was as though the world had shrunk to just the two of them.

“Anya...You are looking breathtaking, sweetheart,” Devansh said, stepping closer, his voice low, confident, and laced with affection.

Ananya’s cheeks flushed. “What did you just call me??” she asked, a mix of surprise and amusement in her voice.

Devansh chuckled, the sound sending a small thrill down her spine. “Bas yahi suna,” he replied, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“What did you call, Dev?” she whispered, leaning in slightly, curiosity and a tinge of shyness coloring her tone.

“Sweetheart,” Devansh said softly, stepping closer, the word carrying warmth and intimacy.

“No, before that,” Ananya murmured, her eyes searching his, her voice barely above a whisper.

Devansh smiled, his hand gently reaching out to tuck a stray strand of her hair behind her ear, his thumb brushing lightly against her cheek. “Anya,” he said, his voice soft but filled with meaning, making her heart skip a beat.

Devansh let out a long, shaky sigh, his gaze fixed on her. The city lights around them twinkled softly, reflecting in her wide, expectant eyes.

“Anya… I want to say something,” he said, his voice low, almost vulnerable.

Ananya’s heart skipped a beat. “Say it, Dev… I’m listening,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, yet carrying all the warmth and anticipation she felt.

He took a deep breath, his jaw tightening as he struggled with his emotions. “Anya… these past years… I was bound. Bound by my past, by memories that I thought I could never let go of. I built walls around myself, thinking it would protect me from losing… from feeling… but then…” He paused, swallowing hard. “Then I started feeling things. For you. But I didn’t even realize it at first. And when I did… I got scared. Scared that if I let myself feel, if I let myself fall… I could lose you too. So I stayed silent. I told myself I was doing the right thing, keeping my distance, protecting you… protecting myself. But it never stopped. Not even for a day.”

Ananya’s eyes brimmed with tears, her lips quivering. Her heart ached as she listened to him, realizing for the first time the depth of the turmoil he had endured—and the depth of the love he held for her.

“I… I loved you,” Devansh continued, his voice breaking slightly. “Every time I saw you smile, every time I saw you struggle, every time I saw you… I wanted to be there. But I was too afraid. Too afraid that my past… that my fears… would ruin what we could have. And when I found out… when Kabir told me that you… that you felt the same way… Anya… I don’t even have words. I felt… happiness. Pure, uncontainable happiness. But still… my fears didn’t leave me. I couldn’t let myself… not fully… until now.”

Ananya’s chest tightened as a flood of emotions surged through her. She had loved him all along, had watched him from a distance, had waited in silence, her heart quietly breaking and mending at the same time. Her hands trembled slightly as she reached out and touched his arm, feeling the warmth of him.

“Dev… I… I’ve loved you all these years,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “Even when you didn’t see me, even when you didn’t know… I loved you. I dreamt of us, I imagined you holding me, protecting me, laughing with me… I never stopped. I never will.” Her eyes shimmered with tears, and she bit her lip to hold back the sobs threatening to escape.

Devansh’s eyes softened, and he took a slow, deliberate step closer.

“Anya…” His voice was firm yet tender, every word carrying the weight of his years of restraint and hidden love. “I know I’ve been a coward. I let my fears, my past, and my silence keep me from you. But no more. I want to stop running from us. I want to love you openly, completely, without fear… without hesitation. So, anya, will you… will you give me a chance? A chance to build our life together, to make up for all the lost years… to be mine, and me… yours?”

Ananya’s chest rose and fell as she listened to him, her eyes brimming with tears. For so long she had imagined this moment—yet standing here, hearing him bare his soul, she felt her heart both ache and heal at once. She blinked rapidly, but a tear still escaped, sliding down her cheek.

“Dev…” her voice broke, trembling, “do you even know… what it was like for me all these years? To love you, and yet stay silent? To watch you slip further into your shadows and tell myself every day that maybe tomorrow… maybe tomorrow you’d finally see me?”

Her fingers tightened against his arm, her whole body shivering with the weight of emotions finally spilling free.

“I loved you in every smile I forced when my heart was breaking. I loved you in every prayer I whispered at night, asking God to heal the pain in your eyes. I loved you when you wouldn’t even look at me—when your silence was the loudest rejection. And still… I couldn’t stop. Because you’re Devansh. My Devansh. The man my heart chose long before I even realized it myself.”

Her tears fell freely now, her voice cracking but unwavering in its truth. “Do you know how many times I told myself to let you go? To walk away? But every time I tried, the thought of a life without you felt emptier than death. You’ve been my strength, my weakness, my every unspoken dream. And even when you didn’t love me back… I never stopped loving you. Not once.”

She placed her trembling hand on his cheek, her thumb brushing the line of his jaw, her gaze locking with his through her tears. “So don’t you ever say you were a coward, Dev. Because if you were… then I was the fool who kept waiting. And I would do it all again. Every single moment of pain, of silence, of hope—I’d live it all again… just to stand here now, with you finally in front of me, asking me to be yours.”

Her voice broke into a sob, but her lips curved into a trembling smile. “Because I already was yours, Devansh… long before you even asked.”

Devansh’s throat tightened as her words sank into him. For a moment he couldn’t speak, his heart hammering so hard it almost hurt. He reached up, cupping her face in both hands, his own eyes glistening.

“Anya…” his voice was rough, broken, “you think you were the fool for waiting? No. The fool was me. Because while you were burning silently in love, I was drowning in chains of a past I should’ve let go long ago.”

His jaw clenched, and he lowered his head, his words tumbling out like a confession he’d buried for too long. “I told myself I didn’t deserve happiness. That if I let myself fall for you, I’d lose you too. I thought pushing you away, keeping distance, would protect me. But all it did was torture me more, because every second I kept myself from you… I was killing a part of myself.”

He swallowed hard, his voice cracking as he went on. “Anya, I saw you. Every smile you faked, every time you held your pain behind those eyes—I saw it all. And yet I still stayed silent, because I was a coward. I loved you from the shadows, from the corners of crowded rooms, from stolen glances when you weren’t looking. I loved you, and it terrified me… because you became the one thing I couldn’t afford to lose.”

His hands slid down to her shoulders, his touch trembling as though his heart was pouring out through his fingertips. “But tonight… hearing you, feeling you… I realize the truth. You weren’t just my weakness, Anya. You were my cure. My anchor. The only light strong enough to pull me out of the darkness I had chained myself to.”

He sank to one knee, his suit brushing against the ground as he pulled a velvet box from his pocket. His gaze never left hers, eyes dark yet shining with unshakable devotion. He opened the box slowly, revealing the ring inside, his voice low and fierce with sincerity.

“So, Mrs. Ananya Devansh Singhania…” he whispered, a tear slipping down his cheek, “I’m not asking you to love me—you’ve already given me that in ways I can never repay. I’m asking you to let me love you, completely, fiercely, without fear this time. I’m asking you to give us a chance—not as two broken souls bound by shadows—but as two hearts that finally found home in each other.”

His lips trembled into the faintest smile. “Will you, Anya? Will you give me the honor of spending the rest of my life proving that your wait… was worth it?”

Tears blurred Ananya’s vision, her chest heaving with the weight of emotions she had carried for years. She couldn’t hold back anymore. With trembling hands, she bent down to his level, the velvet box still open between them, and threw herself into his arms.

“Yes,” she whispered breathlessly, her voice breaking. “Yes, Devansh… a infinity times yes!”

Her arms wrapped around him desperately, as if afraid that letting go would snatch him away again. She buried her face against his neck, her tears soaking into his suit, her entire body trembling with relief, with joy, with love that finally found its place.

Devansh froze for a moment—stunned by the intensity of her embrace—before his arms closed around her with equal ferocity. He hugged her back so tightly it was as if he was trying to fuse her into himself, never to let her slip away again. His eyes shut, a shaky exhale escaping his lips as he pressed his face into her hair, inhaling her, grounding himself in the reality of this moment.

“Anya…” his voice was a husky whisper against her ear, his arms trembling with the force of the emotions coursing through him. “You have no idea what you’ve just given me… you’ve given me life again.”

For a long moment, neither of them moved. They simply clung to each other—two broken halves that had finally, after years of pain, found their way back into one whole. The city lights glimmered around them, but the real brightness was the fire in their hearts, burning together at last.

Devansh slipped the ring on her finger, sealing his promise, but the way Ananya’s teary eyes looked at him shattered every last wall inside him. He cupped her face in both his hands, his thumbs gently wiping away the tears streaming down her soft cheeks.

“Stop crying,” he whispered, though his own eyes glistened, his voice breaking. “You’re mine now… and I’m never letting you go.”

Ananya laughed through her tears, shaking her head. “Idiot,” she murmured, her hands sliding to the back of his neck, pulling him closer.

Devansh couldn’t hold himself back any longer. His gaze dropped to her trembling lips, and with a slow, deliberate movement, he leaned in. His breath mingled with hers, his thumb caressing her cheek as if asking for permission one last time.

Ananya closed her eyes and tilted her head ever so slightly, granting it.

Devansh didn’t wait anymore. His lips found hers—tentative at first, as if he was terrified she would vanish like smoke if he pressed too hard. But Ananya responded, her fingers tangling in his hair, pulling him closer, anchoring him to her.

That was all it took for Devansh to lose control.

The kiss deepened, raw and desperate. His lips moved against hers, taking, claiming, but also giving—every ounce of unspoken love, every bit of fear, every moment of longing poured into it. His arms tightened around her waist, pulling her flush against his chest as though even a fraction of distance was unbearable.

Ananya gasped softly against his mouth, and he used that moment to tilt his head and kiss her deeper. The taste of her, the warmth of her lips, made his heart race wildly. He kissed her with a hunger he didn’t even know he carried, years of restraint breaking apart in one single moment.

Her hands clutched his shirt, her nails lightly digging into him as if she too was afraid he might slip away. She kissed him back with equal intensity—matching his fire, his desperation.

He pulled back only for a second, his lips brushing over hers as he breathed her name like a prayer. “Anya…”

Her answer was simple—she crashed her lips back onto his, kissing him harder, fiercer, her tears mixing with their kiss.

Devansh groaned softly, his hand sliding up her back, holding her steady as though he could never let her fall. His other hand cradled the back of her head, guiding her, deepening the kiss even more until both of them were breathless.

When they finally broke apart, gasping for air, his forehead rested against hers. Their lips were still brushing, soft pecks exchanged between ragged breaths as if neither wanted to end it.

“Years of silence…” Devansh whispered hoarsely, brushing his lips across hers again. “And just one kiss… and I finally feel alive again.”

Ananya’s chest rose and fell against his. She looked into his eyes, her lips swollen from his kiss, and whispered back, “Then live, Dev… live with me.”

And before he could respond, she kissed him again—slower this time, gentler, but no less intense. It wasn’t just passion now; it was love. Pure, unshakable love.

______________________________________________________________

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