Ananya stepped out of the board room, adjusting the sleeve of her beige blazer. The meeting had gone longer than expected and the exhaustion of constant decisions was showing on her face. Piya followed her, tablet in hand, listing the follow-ups.

“Did they come?” Ananya asked while walking.

“Yes, ma’am. They’re waiting for you in your cabin,” Piya replied.

Ananya nodded lightly and headed toward her cabin. The moment she opened the door, both Arshik and Vidisha shot up from the couch, standing straight like two guilty criminals caught red-handed. Their exchanged nervous glances only confirmed her suspicion.

Ananya closed the door behind her, walked forward, and stood right in front of them—arms folded, expression sharp.

Silence thickened the room for a few long seconds.

Then she spoke.

Her voice calm… too calm.

“Tum dono itne bade ho gaye ho ki ab mujhse jo baat batani chahiye woh batate hi nahi?”

Both Arshik and Vidisha glanced at each other, then stared down at the floor like scolded kids.

“Bachpan mein ek ek choti si baat aa kar bataate the… aur ab?” Ananya continued, disappointment clear in her eyes. “Seriously?”

Vidisha swallowed hard, her voice trembling slightly.

“W-What happened, di?”

Ananya’s eyebrow raised.

“What happened? Seriously, Vidi?”

She leaned forward a little.

“You have a freaking boyfriend, and you didn’t bother to tell me?”

Vidisha froze. Her eyes widened like she had been punched with cold water.

Before she could even defend herself, Arshik stepped forward, jaw tight, fists clenched.

He looked at her with pure protective rage.

“Who the hell is that guy?” he demanded.

Vidisha’s throat dried.

“B-bhaiya woh…” she stammered.

“Naam, Vidi.” Arshik’s voice was firm… dangerously controlled.

“V... Vedant,” Vidisha whispered, looking down.

Arshik shut his eyes tight, trying—failing—to calm himself.

“Since when?”

Vidisha clasped her fingers together.

“Since… three months.”

Arshik’s eyes flew open, shock hitting him like a slap.

“Three months??? Seriously, Vidi? And you’re telling me now? How can—”

He didn’t even finish before Ananya stepped in.

“Even YOU hid your one-year relationship from me.”

Her voice cut through the air like a blade.

“So don’t you dare say anything to her, Arshik.”

That shut him up immediately.

He looked down, guilt washing over his face.

The room fell silent.

Ananya’s gaze softened a little as she turned to Vidisha.

Vidisha was still staring at the floor, eyes glistening.

Ananya walked closer.

“Vidi… I’m mad at you,” she said gently, “not because I want to control you.”

Vidisha’s lips trembled.

“I’m mad because you both didn’t think I deserved to know.”

Her voice cracked for a moment.

“You both hid your relationships from me. Pehele Arshik and now you.Uska jab pata chala tab bhi gussa aaya tha mujhe but control kar liya but jab aaj pata chala ki he was in relationship since 1 year I lost it.”

She looked between the two of them—her younger siblings, her kids in every way except name.

“Tum dono ko kya lagta hai, main mana kar dungi?”

She shook her head.

“Of course karungi… agar tumhare partners acche nahi honge toh.”

Vidisha looked up at her, tears finally falling.

“But if I feel they’re right for you… the best for you… then I’ll personally stand with you,” Ananya continued.

She exhaled deeply.

“What you two did… hiding it… wasn’t right.”

Both siblings stayed silent—embarrassed, emotional, guilty.

Vidisha slowly stepped closer and whispered, “Di… I wanted to tell you. Truly. But… I was scared.”

Ananya raised a brow.

“Scared of what, Vidi?”

Vidisha swallowed.

“That… you’d judge us.”

“Judge you?” Ananya repeated softly.

Her voice held both hurt and disbelief.

“You really think I’d judge my own siblings?”

Both of them looked down like guilty children.

Then Arshik stepped forward.

His voice was low, honest.

“Di… we know you won’t judge. We know you better than anyone.”

He paused, choosing his words carefully.

“But we were scared because… you’re very protective of us.”

Ananya looked at him—really looked.

Her expression softened, but her eyes held pain.

“Yes,” she said quietly, “I’m protective.

Because I care for you guys.

Because you two aren’t just my siblings… you’re my kids.”

Vidisha’s eyes filled again, and she nodded.

Arshik gave a small smile.

“Haan di… it’s obvious. But your protectiveness is… something else.”

He couldn’t help but chuckle nervously.

“Don’t you remember in school? That boy who dared to talk to Vidi? You scared him so badly that he changed his division. Of course I was with you—but you were more protective than me.”

Ananya pressed her lips into a thin line but said nothing.

“And you remember that girl who tried to flirt by touching me?”

Arshik winced.

“You literally broke her hand…”

Ananya’s jaw tightened as the memory flashed in her head.

Arshik inhaled.

“So… we were scared, di. That if you found out about our relationships, you’d… do something like that.”

Silence.

Both siblings looked down again, waiting for her reaction.

Ananya took a step closer, her voice soft—but holding the weight of a lifetime.

“Main tum dono ke liye darr nahi… zimmedari hoon.”

Her eyes glistened.

“And responsibilities don’t judge. They guide.

They protect.

But they also… trust.”

She looked at both of them—her eyes fierce yet loving.

“Agar tum mujhe nahi bataoge… toh duniya mein kisi par bhi bharosa kaise karoge?”

Ananya then took a slow step towards them.

Her voice was calm… but carried the weight of pure truth.

“Haan… main protective hoon. Bohot zyada.”

She looked from Vidisha to Arshik.

“Aur haan, agar koi bhi—koi bhi—mere babies ko hurt karne ki koshish karega, toh main usse zinda nahi chhodungi.”

Both of them froze, knowing very well she meant every single word.

Then Ananya gently cupped their cheeks—one hand on each face.

Her eyes softened instantly, melting all their fear.

“Tum dono mere liye sab kuch ho.”

Her voice trembled slightly.

“Tum dono mein se kisi ko bhi chhoti si bhi chot lagti hai na… toh sabse zyada dard mujhe hota hai.”

Vidisha’s lips quivered.

Arshik blinked rapidly, trying not to tear up.

Ananya continued, her thumbs brushing their cheeks softly.

“Aur isi wajah se main protective hoti hoon… kyunki main tum dono ko dukhi dekh hi nahi sakti.

I don’t want the world to hurt you.

Not even a little.”

She dropped her hands and looked at them with pure emotion.

“Bas… issliye gussa aaya. Kyunki tum dono ne mujhe bataane ke laayak bhi nahi samjha.”

The moment Ananya’s words settled in the air, both Vidisha and Arshik stepped forward at the same time and wrapped their arms around her tightly.

“We’re sorry, di…” Vidisha whispered, her voice already cracking.

“Haan di, we’re really sorry,” Arshik added, burying his face in her shoulder.

“We promise… ab se har ek cheez tumse share karenge. Jaise hum hamesha karte aaye hain.”

“Please maaf kar do, di… please don’t be sad,” Vidisha pleaded softly.

Ananya’s gaze softened instantly.

All her anger, frustration, worry—everything melted the second she felt her siblings clinging to her like they used to as kids.

She wrapped her arms around both of them firmly, holding them as if she would never let go.

“Paglon… maaf karne ke liye pehle gussa rehna padta hai,” she murmured with a soft smile.

Then she leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on both their heads—one after the other—like a mother comforting her children.

For a moment, all three of them just stayed there, wrapped in a warm, protective cocoon.

Ananya slowly broke the hug, holding both their shoulders so she could look at them properly.

Her voice wasn’t angry anymore—just firm, protective, and full of authority only she possessed.

“Sunlo tum dono,” she said, pointing a finger at them.

“I’m approving your relationships.”

Vidisha’s eyes brightened a little, and Arshik exhaled in relief.

But Ananya continued—her tone turning sharp again.

“Lekin…”

Both of them straightened instantly.

“Agar un dono ne… kabhi… tumhe thoda sa bhi hurt kiya, emotionally ya mentally—

toh main action loongi. Aur tum dono interfere nahi karoge. Samjhe?”

Her protectiveness was radiating like fire.

Arshik and Vidisha both looked down, guilt and a bit of nervousness flashing on their faces.

Slowly, they nodded.

“Yes di…” Vidisha whispered.

“We won’t interfere,” Arshik added, almost like a promise engraved in stone.

Ananya folded her arms again, giving them that final warning waali look, reminding them she meant every single word.

Ananya sighed softly seeing Vidisha’s teary eyes again.

She stepped forward and gently wiped the tears off her cheeks with her thumbs.

“Bas, ab rona band,” she said softly.

“Ab yeh sab chhodo… aur enjoy karo. After all,”

Ananya smiled—warm, teasing, big-sister–like.

“Aaj tumhare Kabir bhaiya ki mehendi hai.”

Vidisha sniffled and nodded.

Arshik smiled a little too, the tension easing finally.

Ananya placed her hands on her hips and looked at them with a pointed stare.

“Chalo, ab yaha aaye ho toh kaam karke jao. Tum dono ka drama kaafi ho gaya.”

Arshik frowned. “Kaun sa kaam di?”

Ananya raised a brow. “Arshik, tum tech entrepreneur ho ya circus artist?

Rathore Industries ka new security-audit software pending hai since last week.

Go to the IT department, coordinate with them, and I want a brief report on system vulnerabilities by today evening.”

Arshik blinked. “Di… aaj hi? Evening tak?”

Ananya crossed her arms.

“Yes, Mr. Software Developer. Tumse better aur kaun karega? Jaao. And don’t give me that look.”

He sighed dramatically.

“Fine, di… I’ll do it. But if I get a headache, I’m blaming you.”

She smirked.

“Blame accepted. Now go.”

Arshik left, mumbling under his breath like a grumpy kitten.

Vidisha stood there blinking, confused.

“Di… main? Mujhe kya kaam dogi?”

Ananya looked at her from head to toe.

“Doctor sahiba, aapko dusra kaam hai.”

Vidisha made a face. “Kya…?”

Ananya walked to her desk, picked up a folder, and handed it to her.

“Yeh employees’ first-aid awareness program ka proposal hai. I want you to review the medical accuracy—

what to include, what’s unnecessary,

and what precautions should be highlighted.”

Vidisha’s eyes lit up. “Really? I can do that!”

“Of course,” Ananya smiled.

“Tum medical student ho—

so health and safety protocols tumse better kaun check karega? Aur haan, ek simple, easy-to-understand guide bhi bana dena. Employees ko complicated medical terms samajh nahi aate.”

Vidisha nodded eagerly.

“Done di! Main update doongi lunch se pehle.”

Ananya gave a proud smile and flicked her forehead gently.

“Good. Ab jao. Kaam bhi karo aur mera sar bhi mat khaao.”

Vidisha giggled and rushed out of the cabin.

After a few hours, Ananya was still typing on her laptop, glasses sliding slightly down her nose, fully immersed in work.

The door opened quietly.

Arshik and Vidisha stepped in.

Without saying a word, they walked to her desk and placed their respective files in front of her.

Ananya finally looked up… first at the files, then at them.

She raised a brow.

“Itni shaanti? Yeh dono??

Koi na koi gadbad toh zaroor hai,” she said suspiciously.

Vidisha immediately shook her head.

“Nahi di! Sab theek hai. Maine first-aid awareness ka pura content revise kar diya hai. Jo terms complicated the unhe simple words mein rewrite bhi kiya.”

Ananya looked at her for a second, then nodded proudly.

“Good, Vidi. That’s perfect.”

Then she turned to Arshik, who straightened like he was in front of an army general.

“I’ve completed the system audit,” he said.

“Three weak points milay hain in your internal servers. Mainne solutions bhi mention kiye hain and meeting ke liye presentation bhi ready hai.”

Ananya flipped through the first page.

“Impressive,” she said, tone strict but softening at the edges.

“Exactly what I wanted.”

Arshik smirked slightly.

“Obviously di, I’m your brother. Excellence toh khoon mein hai.”

Ananya put the file down and shot him a stare.

“Kissi ke khoon mein overconfidence bhi zyada hai.”

Vidisha laughed, and Arshik rolled his eyes dramatically.

Ananya leaned back in her chair.

“So… kaam ho gaya. Ab batao— lunch kiya ya nahi?”

They both looked down, silent.

Ananya slapped her forehead.

“Unbelievable. Dono kaam karne aaye the ya upvaas karne?”

Vidisha giggled. “Di hum abhi lunch karne ja rahe the.”

Arshik nodded. “Yes di, just came to submit the files first.”

Ananya sighed dramatically but smiled.

“Fine. Jao. And Vidi— paani piyo.

Aur Arshik— coffee kam. Samjhe?”

“Ji ma’am,” both said together laughing.

Ananya adjusted her glasses and went back to typing, fingers gliding swiftly across the keyboard.

But before she could finish another sentence,

a hand reached forward and shut her laptop closed.

CLICK

She blinked up sharply.

“Arshik??” she said, half-annoyed, half-confused.

He stood there with his arms crossed, giving her that don’t argue look.

“Lunch. Together.

Abhi,” he said firmly.

Vidisha nodded from the side.

“Haan di… please. Aap subah se kuch nahi khaayi.”

Ananya opened her mouth to protest.

“Bas five minutes—”

“No.”

Arshik didn’t even let her finish.

“Aap hamein bolti ho na? Ki kaam se zyada health important hoti hai?”

She narrowed her eyes.

“Tu mere dialogues mujhe hi bol raha hai?”

He shrugged.

“Kaam toh aayega atleast.”

Vidisha giggled and grabbed Ananya’s hand.

“Di… chalo na. We rarely get time like this.

Lunch together after so long.”

That melted her.

Ananya sighed, defeated but smiling softly.

“Fine, chalo.

Par mujhe zabardasti health lectures dene ki zarurat nahi thi,” she muttered.

Arshik placed a hand on her shoulder and said,

“Di… tum hum dono ka khayal rakhti ho.

Kabhi kabhi humein bhi tumhara khayal rakhne do.”

Her eyes softened immediately.

Vidisha looped her arm with hers.

“Chalo… warna chef thanda khana dega.”

Ananya finally laughed, stood up, and said:

“Okay, okay… let’s go.”

"Yaar, I’m not interested in eating chef ka khana. Let’s go out and have lunch, what say?" — Arshik complained.

Vidisha immediately nodded in agreement.

Ananya too agreed; she knew very well that if she refused, these two would not leave her in peace.

And the three of them walked out—

like the small family within a family they always were.

They reached a nearby restaurant and placed their order with the waiter.

While waiting, the three of them talked casually. But then Vidisha suddenly grew quiet. She hesitated, then looked at Ananya nervously.

“Di… does papa know about us?” she asked, staring down at her hands.

Ananya looked at her for a moment before answering. “No, he doesn’t. But soon he will.”

Both Vidisha and Arshik’s eyes widened in shock.

“Tum shayad bhool rahe ho,” Ananya continued calmly, “ki agar main sher hoon… toh papa sava sher hai. He will definitely figure it out on his own. But it’s better if you both tell him yourselves.”

They glanced at each other and then turned their puppy eyes toward Ananya.

Ananya sighed, shaking her head. “Of course I’ll be there.”

Both of them exhaled in relief at the same time.

Vidisha played with the edge of her napkin for a moment before speaking again.

“Di… ek baat poochun?” she asked softly.

Ananya nodded.

“Pyaar kaisa hota hai?” Vidisha’s voice was barely above a whisper. “Like… how do you know it’s real?”

Arshik also leaned in, curious.

Ananya froze for a second. Devansh’s face flashed in her mind — his stubborn smile, his eyes that always saw through her, the way he held her like she was both his weakness and his strength.

She took a breath.

“Pyaar...” she started slowly, “...Pyaar kabhi bolke nahi aata. It just walks into your life quietly… aur phir sab kuch badal deta hai.Pyaar… kisi ko khojna nahi hota, Vidi. It finds you when you’re not even looking. Aur jab mil jaye na… toh tumhari zindagi shant ho jaati hai. Jaise sab kuch apni jagah aa gaya ho."

They listened silently.

Ananya continued, her voice carrying a softness that only came when she spoke of Devansh.

“Pyaar woh hota hai jahan tum apne aap ko dekhte ho — flaws ke saath, insecurities ke saath… aur saamne wala phir bhi tumhe poora accept karta hai.”

Ananya continued, her gaze fixed somewhere far away.

“Pehle toh sab normal lagta hai. Phir ek din… tum notice karte ho ki kisi ek insaan ki khushi tumhari aadat ban chuki hai. Unki awaaz se mann shaant hota hai, unka gussa bhi cute lagta hai… aur unka dard tumhe sehna mushkil ho jata hai.”

Her voice softened.

“Love is when someone becomes home without even trying.”

Vidisha blinked, mesmerized. “But… how do you trust it?”

Ananya smiled faintly, a smile that held memories.

“Saccha pyaar tab samajh aata hai jab kisi ki muskaan tumhari zimmedari ban jaati hai… aur unka dard tumhara apna lagne lagta hai. Jab tum unse lad sakti ho, aur unke liye duniya se lad sakti ho. Pyaar aur bharosa… alag nahi hote. Jis din tum kisi ko sach-mein pyaar karne lagte ho, tum ussi din unpe vishwas karna bhi shuru kar dete ho. Even when it scares you. Even when it hurts.”

She took a slow breath.

“Pyaar mein hamesha butterflies nahi hote. Kabhi kabhi dar hota hai… zidd hoti hai… ego hota hai… lekin agar pyaar sachcha ho, toh har jhagda sirf yeh yakeen dilata hai ki tum dono ek dusre ko khona nahi chahte.”

Both of them listened, deeply moved.

“Love is not about finding a perfect person,” she said quietly. “It’s about finding someone jiske flaws tum accept kar sakte ho… aur jiske bina tum apne aap ko adhura mehsoos karo.”

Arshik swallowed. “Aur… agar woh insaan door chala jaye?”

For the first time, Ananya’s eyes flickered — a small crack in her controlled expression.

“Phir tum wapas normal banne ka natak karte ho,” she answered honestly. “Kaam mein busy ho jaate ho… logon ke beech rehkar bhi akela mehsoos karte ho… aur raat ko unki yaadein sabse zyada satati hain.”

Her voice dropped to barely a whisper.

“Lekin agar pyaar saccha ho… toh na waqt use mita sakta hai, na doori.”

Ananya’s voice softened even more, filled with unspoken memories of Devansh.

“Pyaar… sukoon bhi deta hai aur pareshaani bhi. Lekin sabse bada sach yeh hai—

jis se tum pyaar karti ho, woh tumhare andar rehne lagta hai. Chahe woh paas ho ya door.”

Vidisha whispered, “It sounds beautiful…”

Ananya smiled, a small, heartfelt one.

“It is beautiful. Jab sahi insaan milta hai… pyaar mushkil nahi lagta. Bas natural ho jata hai. Jaise saans lena.”

She lifted her glass lightly.

“Bas dono mein loyalty aur respect ho… toh pyaar kabhi toot nahi sakta.”

Both Vidisha and Arshik looked at her with admiration.

They didn’t need to ask who she was remembering —

her eyes already said the name:

Devansh.

“Vidi, enough baccha… you ate a lot of ice-cream already,” Ananya said, rubbing her palm gently on Vidisha’s back as they walked along the beach. “Zyada thanda mat khao, you’ll catch a cold baby.”

But Vidisha, proudly holding her 8th ice-cream, just giggled and took another big bite.

Arshik stared at her in disbelief.

“Eight, Vidisha. EIGHT. Insaan hai ya ice-cream disposal machine?” he said dramatically.

Vidisha stuck her tongue out at him. “Bhaiya, beach pe aake ice-cream na khaun toh kya Biryani kahun?”

Arshik rolled his eyes and snatched the stick from her hand.

“Bas kar. If you catch a cold, you won’t be able to enjoy Kabir bhai ki shaadi. Aur phir rona shuru kar degi ki photos kharab aa rahi hain.”

Vidisha gasped. “Excuse me! My photos are always perfect!”

Ananya couldn’t help but laugh and gently cupped Vidisha’s cheeks.

“Baccha, listen to me. Mujhe teri tabiyat ki tension hai, samjhi? Ek aur ice-cream nahi.”

Vidisha pouted dramatically.

“Di pleaaase…”

“No,” Ananya said, firm but lovingly. “Tumhari naak jab band ho jayegi na, tab yaad aayega ki maine mana kiya tha.”

Arshik added, smirking, “Aur main toh bilkul nahi sununga tera rona. ”

Vidisha smacked his arm. “Bhaiya!!!”

Ananya shook her head at both of them.

“You two are impossible,” she muttered, but her smile was full of warmth.

Vidisha suddenly sneezed loudly,

“Aachooo!”

Ananya glared at her with that I-told-you-so expression.

“Dekh! Lag gayi na thand? Sunti hi nahi hai tu,” she scolded, already slipping her coat off her shoulders.

Before Vidisha could protest, Ananya wrapped the coat around her and buttoned it properly, tucking the collar close to her neck.

“Di, I’m fine—”

“Bilkul nahi,” Ananya said, pulling her closer and rubbing her arms to warm her up. “Ab iske baad ice-cream ka naam bhi nahi lena. Samjhi?”

Vidisha nodded with a tiny pout.

Arshik chuckled, hands in his pockets.

“Vidi, honestly… ek din teri wajah se di ka BP high ho jayega.”

Ananya shot him a sharp look.

“Mere bachchon ki wajah se mujhe kuch nahi hoga. Tum dono ho na mere paas.”

Vidisha melted at that and hugged Ananya’s waist, mumbling,

“Sorry di… thoda thanda lag gaya.”

Ananya softened instantly and kissed the top of her head.

“I know baccha… chalo, ab gaadi mein chalte hain. Tum dono ko garam coffee pilaati hoon.”

Arshik smirked, “Di, coffee hum kuch zyada hi use karne lage hain. Life ke har problem ka solution—coffee.”

Ananya rolled her eyes but smiled, “Tum dono ke saath patience bhi coffee ki wajah se hi bachi hui hai.”

They all laughed and started walking towards car, Vidisha snug inside Ananya’s oversized coat like a little kid.

They were about to turn toward the car when a sharp voice cut through the sound of waves—

“Anya!!”

All three of them turned.

Devansh and Kabir were striding toward them.

Kabir looked tense…

But Devansh—

His hair was completely messed, sleeves rolled up, fists clenched, jaw hard as stone, breath uneven…

His eyes were scanning her like he was making sure she was real.

Before Ananya could even react, Devansh reached her in quick, desperate steps and pulled her into a tight, crushing hug.

A hug that wasn’t the usual soft Devansh-style hug.

This one felt like he had been holding his breath for hours and finally exhaled.

He wrapped both arms around her waist and held her close—so tight that Ananya stumbled a little.

“A...ansh?” she whispered, shocked.

But he didn’t loosen his grip.

His forehead rested on her shoulder, his chest rising and falling unevenly, like something had terrified him.

Ananya slowly raised her hands and circled them around him, feeling his heartbeat pounding wildly against her.

“Dev…kya hua,” she whispered softly.

Still confused… still shocked at his sudden urgency.

He finally pulled back only a little, cupping her face with both hands, eyes filled with a mixture of anger, worry… and relief.

“Tum phone kyun nahi utha rahi thi, Anya?” he asked, voice low, heavy, almost trembling with fear he was trying to hide.

Ananya blinked, “Phone? Dev… mera phone dead ho gaya. Charging hi khatam thi. I didn’t realise—”

“And phir switch off ho gaya,” Devansh finished her sentence, eyes fixed on hers like he was confirming she wasn’t hurt.

She nodded slowly, “Haan… but why are you—”

He pulled her into another hug.

Softer this time.

He buried his face in her hair and breathed out, long and shaky.

As if letting go of something he had been holding inside.

Ananya gently placed her hand on his back, rubbing soothing circles.

“Dev… main theek hoon,” she whispered.

“I know…” he whispered back, voice tight, “bas… next time don’t disappear like that. Please.”

Arshik and Vidisha stood silently beside them—

Vidisha with widened eyes,

Arshik with a frown, sensing something was wrong but choosing not to ask.

Kabir placed a hand on Arshik’s shoulder, signaling him to stay quiet.

Ananya finally pulled back from the hug, cupping Devansh’s cheek with concern.

“Tum thik ho?” she asked gently.

Devansh just nodded… but his eyes told her he wasn’t ready to explain.

Not here.

Not now.

Not in front of everyone.

Ananya finally pulled back from Devansh’s arms, still holding his wrist gently.

She looked at Kabir—who was standing there with a don’t-look-at-me face.

“Kabir,” she asked, raising a brow, “kya hua isse?”

Kabir lifted both hands dramatically.

“Nothing yaar!” he said, shrugging.

“Bas teri shakal poore din nahi dekhi na… toh banda full panic mode mein chala gaya.”

Ananya blinked.

Kabir continued, amused—

“Haan bhai, thoda chill! Biwi hi toh hai… kahin bhaag thodi na jaayegi.”

Devansh shot him a razor-sharp glare.

Kabir zipped his mouth instantly.

Vidisha giggled, Arshik smirked, and Ananya folded her arms.

“Seriously, Devansh?” she asked softly, trying not to laugh, “itna tension?”

Devansh didn’t respond.

He just… looked at her.

That same silent, stubborn, possessive look that said yes, I panicked. I don’t care if it sounds stupid.

Ananya’s expression softened.

“Main theek hoon,” she whispered. “See?”

Devansh didn’t say anything… just slipped his hand into hers tightly, as if reassuring himself again.

Kabir leaned toward Arshik and whispered loudly,

“Bhai ki biwi mil gayi. Now he’ll start breathing like a normal human.”

Devansh: death glare no. 2

Kabir raised his hands up in surrender, “Okay okay sorry.”

Ananya finally exhaled, still holding Devansh’s hand, and then turned to Kabir.

“Alright, chalo,” she said, brushing her palms together,

“teri mehendi hai, Kabir. Agar late ho gaya na, Ira tujhe zinda chhodengi nahi.”

Kabir’s eyes widened dramatically.

“Haan haan, chalo! Mujhe marna nahi hai!” he said, jogging a step ahead.

Vidisha giggled and followed him.

Arshik shook his head at Kabir’s overacting and walked beside her.

Devansh was still holding Ananya’s hand a little too tightly.

She nudged him with her shoulder.

“Relax, Mr. Singhania. I’m right here.”

He looked at her sideways—still a bit tense—but his voice came out low,

“Accha hai.”

Ananya smiled softly and intertwined their fingers.

“Chalo,” she whispered,

“warna Kabir mehendi ki jagah apna mourning function shuru kar dega.”

Devansh huffed a small laugh, finally easing, and together they all walked back toward the cars—

the chaos of Kabir’s wedding rituals waiting for them.

They all entered the beautifully decorated mehendi venue—lights, music, and chatter filling the air.

Harshad, Rajveer, Arjun, and Ishaan were standing together, talking about some old memory and laughing.

But the moment Harshad’s gaze landed on Vidisha, his laughter vanished and his brows drew together sharply.

He walked toward her with big, worried steps.

“Vidi baccha, kya hua?” he asked, cupping her face.

“Teri naak laal kyu ho gayi??”

Vidisha immediately hid behind Ananya like a five-year-old caught stealing chocolates.

“Papa woh… hehe… ice cream kha li thi… toh isliye… hehe…” she said with a nervous smile, peeking from behind Ananya.

Before Ananya could open her mouth, Arshik betrayed her.

“Woh bhi aath.”

Ananya facepalmed.

Vidisha shot daggers at him.

“Bhaiyaaa!!” she whisper-yelled, horrified.

Harshad’s jaw dropped.

“Aath?! Vidisha!! Tumne poora ice-cream ka freezer kha liya kya?!”

Vidisha pouted and hid further behind Ananya,

“Papa woh beach pe thand lag rahi thi… toh… maine socha… ice cream se… better feel hoga…”

Ananya glared at her dramatically.

“Haan bilkul. Thand lag rahi thi toh ice-cream badi zaruri thi, right?”

Vidisha: “Di…” pout intensifies

Harshad sighed, shaking his head,

“Yeh ladki mujhe pagal karegi.”

Ananya took charge immediately, clapping her hands once to get everyone’s attention.

“Alright, bohot drama ho gaya. Now you guys go and get ready!” she said, pointing at Kabir first.

“Kabir, jaldi ja! Jaake ready ho ja. Waise hi late ho gaye hai, aur agar aur late hue toh Ira hum sabko maar daalegi.”

Kabir dramatically flicked his imaginary hair.

“Main? Late? Never—”

“Kabir. Room. Now.” Ananya warned with narrowed eyes.

Kabir gulped.

“Yes Anu…” he said in a tiny voice and rushed toward his room.

Devansh chuckled, Harshad shook his head, and Vidisha whispered,

“Di ka full CEO mode on.”

Ananya smirked proudly,

“Of course.”

After a while, Ananya appeared in a stunning green saree that shimmered softly under the lights. The fabric hugged her form gracefully, and the pallu was draped elegantly over her shoulder. She let her long, silky hair cascade down her back, giving her a perfect blend of elegance and modesty.

Devansh stood beside her in a matching green kurta, the shades harmonizing beautifully. He looked effortlessly handsome, and together, they looked like a picture-perfect pair, twinning flawlessly in their coordinated attire.

Soon, Ananya and Devansh joined the others, their presence lighting up the room. Moments later, Kabir entered, looking dashing in a green kurta that complemented the festive vibe. Beside him, Ira walked gracefully in a stunning green sharara, the intricate embroidery catching the light as she moved. Together, the four of them created a mesmerizing sight, perfectly coordinated yet radiating their own individual charm.

The mehendi function officially began. Ira sat in the center, her green sharara glowing under the lights, as two mehendi artists worked meticulously on her hands and feet. Kabir sat beside her, trying to look patient, but Siya was having other plans. She had mischievously taken some mehendi and was slowly applying it on his hands.

“Bhaiya, smile! This color will make your hands look perfect!” Siya said, grinning.

“Siya… stop it, you’re smudging it!” Kabir groaned, pulling his hand back.

“Bhaiya, nahi! Yeh art hai, appreciate it!” Siya teased, leaning closer with a playful glint in her eyes.

Ira giggled, “Kabir, don’t act so serious… let her have fun.”

“Fun? This is my hand, not a canvas!” Kabir complained, trying to hide his smirk.

“Bhaiya, you’re already making funny faces… it’s just mehendi, chill!” Siya said, patting his hand gently and smearing a little more color.

Devansh, sitting nearby with Ananya, couldn’t resist whispering to her, “Look at him… the mighty Kabir reduced to a playground for his little sister.”

Ananya chuckled softly, “That’s what happens when you’re too serious… someone has to teach you fun, right?”

Kabir groaned dramatically, but Ira leaned closer and whispered, “Just let it happen, you’ll survive.” She playfully nudged him, and he gave in, pretending to sulk but secretly enjoying the attention.

Meanwhile, Aryan sat nearby watching the scene unfold, shaking his head with a grin. “Bhaiya, you’re too soft… just admit it, you love it.”

Kabir huffed but couldn’t hide the small smile creeping onto his face as Siya continued her mischievous work.

Just then, Meenakshi came towards Ananya with a playful smile.

“Anu, jaake tu bhi lagwa le,” she said, nudging her gently.

“Mumma, baad mein… abhi nahi,” Ananya replied, trying to protest.

“Baad mein nahi, abhi ja! Phir time nahi milega, Jake lagwa le,” Meenakshi insisted, her tone teasing but firm.

Ananya gave in with a small sigh and walked over to get her mehendi applied. A skilled artist sat her down and began working on both of her hands. The intricate designs slowly took shape, delicate flowers intertwining with elegant patterns, creating a masterpiece on her palms.

After a few minutes, the artist paused and asked with a smile, “Aapke husband ka naam kya hai, madam?”

Ananya’s lips curved into a soft smile. “Devansh,” she said, her gaze drifting towards him. Devansh was standing a little away, talking on his phone, his expression sharp and focused.

Ananya looked at him and couldn’t help but smile, but a flicker of confusion crossed her mind. She remembered how he had been behaving earlier—so intense and serious—and now, seeing him like this, she made a mental note: I’ll ask him about this later.

Ananya and Ira sat together, leaning slightly towards each other, giggling softly as they chatted. The mehendi on their hands was still fresh, not yet dried, but that didn’t stop them from enjoying each other’s company.

“Yaar, bhook lagi hai,” Ira suddenly said, rubbing her stomach playfully.

Ananya nodded in agreement, her cheeks puffing into a small pout. “Haan yaar, mujhe bhi lagi hai…”

Ira looked down at her hands. “Par kaise khaye yaar, mehendi toh abhi tak nahi sukhi…”

Ananya sighed dramatically, making her pout even more pronounced. “Haan, yaar… phir bhi kuch toh khana chahiye.”

Just then, Devansh and Kabir walked towards them, each carrying a plate of food. They were talking seriously, their brows slightly furrowed, but the moment their eyes fell on Ananya and Ira, their expressions softened.

Devansh leaned slightly, offering his plate. “Tum dono ne kuch khaya?” he asked, his voice gentle but teasing.

Ananya smiled up at him. “Abhi tak nahi, bhook lagi hai,” she said.

Devansh and Kabir quietly settled beside the girls. Ananya and Ira were absorbed in conversation laughing about old memories their hands lifted carefully to avoid smudging the mehendi.

Without a word Kabir picked up a small bite of chaat holding it near Ira's lips. Ira still talking to Ananya opened her mouth automatically realizing only after a second.

She turned to look at him."Kabir you're feeding me?"

"Haan. Agar main nahi khilaunga toh tum khaogi kaise? Mehendi sukhi nahi hai."

She looked at him really looked her voice softening. "Kabir kabhi kabhi tum itne ache kyun lagte ho?"

Kabir laughed quietly. "Kabhi kabhi? Rude."

He fed her another bite gently wiping the corner of her lip with his thumb.

On the other side Devansh placed a piece of paneer tikka near Ananya's mouth. She didn't notice still chatting with Ira.

Devansh huffed softly half teasing half affectionate.

"Anya"

She blinked turning to him her eyes softening immediately.

"Tum khila rahe ho?"

He nodded slightly. "Haan. Tum dono haath upar kar ke baithi ho aur bhook se pareshaan bhi ho."

He fed her gently. Ananya chewed slowly her gaze fixed on his face.

"Bade romantic ho rahe ho."

Devansh didn't look away. "Tum ho toh hona hi padta hai."

Ananya's breath hitched his tone honest not dramatic.

Ira smiled watching them.

"Tum dono ka romance kabhi khatam hota hi nahi."

Kabir smirked. "Aur tum dono ka complaining kabhi khatam nahi hota."

All four laughed softly the atmosphere peaceful and warm.

While Devansh fed her his eyes weren't only on her face.Every few seconds he glanced at her mehendi specifically her right hand specifically the inner side of her palm.He tried to be subtle. He failed miserably.

Ananya noticed. Of course she did.She shifted her hand away keeping her palm facing down. Her hair fell over her shoulder blocking the view further.

Devansh narrowed his eyes slightly."Anya haath seedha karo" he said in a low voice.

"Kyu?" Her tone was innocent. Too innocent.

He raised an eyebrow. "Tum jaanti ho kyu."

Ananya bit her lip holding back a smile. "Main kuch nahi jaanti."

He leaned closer whispering so only she could hear. "I know you hid it. Tumne mehendi mein mera naam likwaya hai par mujhe dikh nahi raha. Aur tum jaan-boojh ke chhupa rahi ho."

Ananya looked away trying to act unaffected but her cheeks betrayed her turning warm and pink.

He fed her another bite his voice softening. "Dikhana nahi chahti?" A tiny smirk tugged at his lips. "Ya phir chahti ho main dhoondta rahun?"

Ananya rolled her eyes but her smile emerged anyway. " Tum bohot irritating ho."

"Good. Kyuki woh sirf mera right hai."

She turned slightly still protecting her palm.He sighed dramatically.

"Theek hai. Mat dikhao. Par raat ko main khud dhoond lunga."

Ananya's breath stopped. [ A/N :- Kya kya sochti reheti hai beta tu 🤧 ]

"Ansh!" she whispered shocked.

He just smirked.

"What? Mehendi ka naam hi toh dhoondunga."

But the look in his eyes promised much more.

They were enjoying their moment when Harshad's firm voice echoed across the hall.

"Anu! Meet me in my room now."

Ananya looked at him letting out a long sigh knowing exactly what was coming.Devansh sensing her tension leaned in slightly.

"Everything alright?"

Ananya gave him a reassuring smile. "Everything is fine don't worry."

She stood up following her father. Devansh watched closely eyes filled with concern.As she stepped into the room Harshad sat with his gaze fixed on her while Arshik and Vidisha stood timidly avoiding his eyes. Ananya sighed moving forward.Before they could speak the door creaked open. Devansh along with Kavita ,Rajveer and Meenakshi appeared.Seeing Kavita Arshik and Vidisha immediately hid behind Ananya.

Ananya pinched the bridge of her nose. "Seriously?? I'm not a wall you know."

Vidisha peeked out. "Please don't leave us di."

Arshik nodded. "Yeah we love our life."

Ananya shook her head amused while Kavita shot them a sharp glare. Both siblings shrank further behind her.

Ananya turned to Harshad who gave her a disappointed look."Papa don't look at me like that. I didn't know either. Piya told me."

Harshad's gaze shifted to Vidisha and Arshik silently demanding the truth. "Truth."

Vidisha swallowed nervously. "Papa I...I and Vikram we are classmates. Slowly we fell in love."

Harshad's gaze turned to Arshik silently asking for his explanation.

Arshik steadying himself said "Papa I have the same reason and I fell for Trisha."

Harshad looked at them both then turned away conflicted.Vidisha's eyes glistened with tears.

"P....Papa please sorry na."

Arshik pleaded "Papa sorry. We won't do this again please."

Harshad let out a heavy sigh. "Sorry?? Seriously?" He looked away trying to hide his mixed emotions.Kavita stepped forward standing firmly in front of Ananya.

"Tum dono seriously?? Hiding such a big thing from us? Okay for a moment I can understand hiding it from us because you were scared. But why hide it from Ananya?? You share everything with her then why not this?"

Both Arshik and Vidisha lowered their heads unable to meet her gaze. Ananya let out a soft sigh conflicted between amusement and concern.

"Maa I—"

Harshad cut her off sharply. "Not today Anu. Not today. You always support them but not today."

Harshad's voice was firm but hurt. "Anu you knew everything tough today but you did still you didn't say this to us. Ek baar bataya hota but no!"

Ananya responded calmly with authority. "Papa I know you're hurt and you have every right to be. But maine inhe bola tha ki it's better ki woh khud aake bole but they were scared. Scared that we would judge them."

Harshad raised his voice slightly. "Scared? For what ?? That we would judge them?? No! We would never. Aur karenge bhi kyu they are my kids so why will I judge them??"

Ananya stepped closer gently. "Papa you know how protective we are towards them. So isliye they were scared. Isliye nahi ki hum unhe judge karenge ya kuch isliye ki we are way more protective towards them."

Harshad sighed still frustrated. "Par Anu main unhone ye baat humse chupai fine but why you?? Tumse kyu chupai ye baat?? Tumse ye har ek baat share karte hai toh why didn't they said it to you?"

Ananya touched his arm softly. "You know the reason behind it papa more than anyone you know it. And inhone promise Kiya hai ki aainda se ye aesa kuch bhi nahi karenge. Aur agar Kiya toh I promise I won't interfere."

Harshad paused his voice softening slightly. "Now you want me to accept it?? Their relationship??"

Ananya smiled yet serious."It's completely your choice papa . Aapko Haan karna hai ya nahi but mujhe itna toh pata hai ki bhale ki woh kitne bhi dare hue ho aapse,mumma se,mujhse they won't go against of us. And warning de rakhi hai dono ko maine ki agar inke partners ne kuch bhi kiya jiski wajha se unhe dukh milla I won't spare them. And —."

Ananya crunched her nose in irritation and said, “Ek min papa!” and then turned around to look at Vidisha, who was crying.

Ananya looked at her and said firmly, “Chup hoja ek dam! Tab se pani baha rahi hai, wese hi bimar hai… rooke aur bimar hona hai kya tujhe?” she yelled at her.

Vidisha went silent for a while, and the whole room went quiet.

And then…

“AAAAHAHAAAAAAAAA!” Vidisha cried more and ran towards Harshad, tears streaming down her face.

“Dekho, aapki beti ko mujhe daat rahi hai!” said Vidisha while tugging at his arms.

Harshad first looked at Ananya, then at his crying little girl, and hugged Vidisha tightly. “Shant ho ja baccha… didi tere bhale ke liye hi bol rahi hai na,” he said softly.

“AAAAAAHAHAAAAAA!” Vidisha cried even more, burying her face into his chest.

Ananya crunched her nose again in irritation, then heard some giggles from behind. She turned around sharply and said, “Tu kyu has raha hai?”

Arshik immediately hid behind Devansh and whispered urgently, “Nahi di, mai nahi!” Then he leaned closer to Devansh and whispered, “Jiju, bacha lo apni wali se.”

Devansh looked at him coldly and muttered, “Tujhe bachane laga toh mai khud mar jaunga… chup chaap khada reh.”

He flicked his eyes at him, silently gesturing, stay quiet if you want to live.

Ananya’s irritation was rising—her jaw tight, eyes narrowed, nostrils flaring slightly. Harshad was still consoling Vidisha, who was crying dramatically.

Rajveer slowly stepped forward and said gently,

“Anu baccha… gussa thoda kam kar. Bachche hi toh hain. Samjha dena araam se.”

Meenakshi hurried beside him, rubbing Ananya’s arm softly.

“Ha baccha, calm down, please. Pura din thak gayi hogi tu… is wajah se choti choti baat par gussa ho rahi hai.”

Devansh came closer, his tone soft but firm,

“Anya, un dono ko dar lag raha hai… isliye react kar rahe hain. Tum aur tension mat lo. Pehle shant hojao, phir baat kar lenge.”

But Ananya took a deep breath, her irritation clearly visible as she pointed at the still-crying Vidisha.

“Yeh na… yeh dono hadd karte hain. Maine thoda sa daant kya diya, poora drama shuru!”

Behind her, Arshik whispered again,

“Di bas ab phatne wali hai…”

Devansh shot him a glare so sharp that he froze.“Ek aur shabd bola toh sach mai Ananya se nahi… mujhse padegi,” he muttered.

Meenakshi sighed deeply.

“Bas Anu, ab gussa mat kar… sab theek ho jayega. Tu shant ho ja, warna tere gusse ka next target Devansh hoga.”

Devansh stiffened.

“Mumma aisa mat bolo…” he whispered nervously.

Kavita smiled slightly at Devansh’s reaction and said,

“Ha toh? Kaun bachayega tujhe agar ye phat gayi toh?”

Devansh gulped.

“…Main khud ko bacha lunga,” he muttered under his breath.

Rajveer chuckled,

“Beta, is time chup rehna hi tere liye safe hai.”

Ananya finally exhaled sharply, rubbing her temples.

“Ek min ruk jao mujhe do minute shanti chahiye.”

Everyone went dead silent.

Harshad gently tried to calm Vidisha, his hands resting on her shoulders. After a few attempts, Vidisha stopped crying, her teary eyes now fixed on Ananya with a slightly offended look.

Ananya looked at her, irritation evident in her gaze.

Vidisha huffed, “Hmph,” and turned her face away.

Ananya rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath, “Ye ladki…”

Harshad took a deep breath and said firmly,

“Ye pehli aur aakhri baar tha ki tum dono ne humse kuch chhupaya. Agar phir kabhi aisa hua, chahe tumhari didi kitni bhi gussa ho jaye, mai nahi manunga.”

Both Vidisha and Arshik nodded earnestly.

Harshad sighed, then gestured for Arshik to come closer. Arshik hesitated for a moment, but Devansh gave him a subtle nod, “Go,” encouraging him. Arshik took a deep breath and stepped forward.

Harshad pulled him into a warm hug, holding him close for a few moments.

Ananya watched them, her face still showing irritation, but a small smile tugged at her lips—happy that her father had finally accepted her siblings partners .

Harshad looked at Ananya, chuckling softly, and gestured for her to join.

Ananya huffed, “Hmph,” before turning to hug Kavita instead, pressing her cheek gently against her mother's shoulder.

Harshad looked at Ananya with a teasing smirk, “Accha… papa se direct mummy?”

Ananya didn’t reply. She simply huffed, “Hmph,” and hugged her mother, Kavita, more tightly, resting her head on her shoulder.

Meenakshi smiled warmly, “Chalo, finally sab thik ho gaya. Ab tension chhodo aur enjoy karo.”

Harshad shook his head, still amused, and muttered, “Yeh Ananya… hamesha apni alag hi style se sab handle karti hai.”

Ananya peeked at him from the corner of her eyes and gave a tiny smirk, silently saying, “Exactly, papa.”

Kavita stood there in complete silence, her expression unreadable.

Ananya, still hugging her, looked up in confusion. “Maa…?”

But Kavita gently removed Ananya’s hands and said in a straight tone,

“Nahi. Main tumse baat nahi karna chahti.”

Ananya’s eyes flew wide. “Maine kya kiya???”

Kavita folded her arms. “Hume nahi bola.”

And before Ananya could even open her mouth to explain, Kavita turned and walked out of the room.

The door shut with a soft thud… but for Ananya it felt like a slap.

She stared at the door, mouth open, eyes blinking in shock.

Arshik blinked twice. “Mummy toh naraz ho gayi…”

Vidisha sighed dramatically. “Ab kaise manayenge…”

They both looked at each other… then slowly turned their heads and looked at their sister.

Ananya snapped.

“Mujhe mat dekho tum dono! Tum dono ki wajah se mummy mujhse bhi naraz ho gayi!”

“Humne kya kiya???” both Arshik and Vidisha said together, looking genuinely innocent.

Ananya marched forward.

“Kya kiya?? SERIOUSLY??? Tum dono ki himmat dekho—‘humne kya kiya??’”

Her voice rose with each word. Harshad instinctively stepped back and both Arshik and Vidisha immediately hid behind him like scared puppies.

She pointed at them.

“Fine! Ab tum dono hi handle karoge. Main nahi madad karungi. Tum dono jaake mummy ko khud manoge!

Aur haan—dare you come to me for ANY kind of help.

Is baar, Mr. and Ms. Rathore—

I. WON’T. HELP. YOU. GUYS.”

Arshik whispered to Vidisha,

“Didi ke bina agar gaye toh mummy ke gusse ka volcanic eruption hoga…”

Vidisha whispered back,

“Didi ko leke gaye toh didi ke gusse ka volcanic eruption hoga.”

Harshad subtly pushed them away from behind him.

“Jaao, jaao… ab bhugo apne karmo ka phal.”

Ananya gave all three of them a final glare and threw herself back on the bed dramatically, face buried in a pillow, whining,

“Sab log mere peeche hi kyun pade hote hain yaarrr…”

Arshik folded his arms and said in attitude,

“Aapke peeche kaun pada hai? Woh toh humare peeche pade hain!”

Vidisha nodded immediately,

“Haan! Hamesha humein hi sunati rehti ho!”

Both of them proudly said it together…

…for exactly three seconds.

Because the moment Ananya slowly lifted her head from the pillow and squinted at them—

both their smiles died.

She stood up from the bed with the aura of a villain entry.

Walking toward them step by step, she said in a dangerously sweet tone,

“Dono ko repta padega… accha wala.

Zyada bol rahe ho tum dono.”

Arshik’s soul left his body for a moment.

Vidisha squeaked and immediately grabbed Harshad’s sleeve.

Both of them hid behind him again like terrified baby chicks.

Harshad sighed,

“Mai nahi bachane wala.Tum logon ne khud bulaya hai taandav.”

Ananya advanced another step.

“Aaj tum dono ko line pe laane ka perfect mauka hai.”

But before she could launch into full “Ananya Rathore Fury Mode,”

a calm but firm voice cut through the room.

“Anya. Bas.”

Devansh finally stepped forward.

His tone wasn’t loud—

but it was enough to freeze her mid-step.

He gently placed his hand on her shoulder.

“Calm down,” he said softly,

“Tumhara gussa un do chhote logo pe nikaal rahi ho jo already darr ke mare statue ban gaye hain.”

Arshik peeped from behind Harshad,

“Haan… hum statue hi hai abhi…”

Vidisha whispered,

“Bas had mat rakhna… hum sach mein daree hue hain…”

Devansh looked at them and then back at Ananya with a small smile.

“Sab ho jayega, okay?

Tum pehle geheri saans lo.”

Ananya made an annoyed face… but did what he said.

A long breath.

Devansh smirked,

“Good girl.”

Ananya took one more irritated breath, glared at everyone in the room, muttered,

“Mujhe koi calm down mat bolna abhi…”

and stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

The room shook.

So did Arshik and Vidisha.

For two seconds everyone stayed silent.

Then Harshad sighed dramatically,

“Bas… chali gayi. Devansh beta, ab teri zimmedari hai. Main 27 saal se iss ladki ke tantrums jhel raha hoon, ek aur round nahi hoga mujhse.”

Devansh rubbed his forehead,

“Papa… aapki beti hai. Aap hi handle karo.”

Harshad folded his arms.

“Shaadi ke baad teri responsibility. Official transfer.”

“Papa—”

“Order.”

Devansh blinked.

“Wow. Delivery bhi express.”

Harshad patted his shoulder like a general assigning a suicide mission.

“Chal. Team up. Aaj Rathore–Singhania alliance banate hain.”

Behind them, Arshik whispered,

“Jiju ki toh phatne wali hai…”

Vidisha nodded,

“Didi ka gussa… bhoot level ka hai aaj…”

Devansh glared at them, “Tum dono ki wajah se yeh sab hua hai. Tum log bhi chal rahe ho.”

Both instantly yelled, “NO!”

But Harshad grabbed both by their ears,

“Chup Didi ko gussa dilaya hai toh manaoge bhi tum dono Chalo.”

Arshik whined, “Papa please… didi maar degi…”

Vidisha cried softly, “Haan… woh toh gusse mein Zeus ka lightning bolt bhi phek deti hai…”

Harshad rolled his eyes and dragged them toward the door.

“Drama band karo dono. Chalo.”

Devansh opened the door slowly, peeked out, and whispered, “Sab log dhyaan se chalna. Agar woh corridor mein khadi mili toh main neeche se jaake aata hoon.”

Harshad declared "Agar neeche jaayega toh phir main upar se jaaunga."

Arshik replied "Hum cupboard mein chup jayenge."

Vidisha added "Haan. Safe zone."

Harshad looked at them like they were aliens. “Ghar se bhaagoge kya?

Chalo. Ek saath. Captain main hoon.”

Devansh whispered, “Captain aap ho, par agar woh mujhe daantne lagi toh please beech mein bol dena.”

Harshad smirked. "Depends. Agar maza aa raha hoga toh nahi bolunga."

Devansh stared at him, betrayed.

The four walked out together like a nervous rescue mission team.

Harshad muttered,

“Operation Shant Ananya begins…”

Devansh nodded,

“Bhagwan hum sabke saath ho.”

Both of them—in perfect coordination—

looked left, right, and down the corridor…

…searching for the angry tigress.

They walked down the corridor like a search squad.

Harshad in front, Devansh slightly behind, and the siblings sticking to the wall like prisoners being escorted.

Suddenly Devansh stopped.

“Papa… wahan.”

At the far end of the corridor, Ananya stood near the window.

Arms folded.

Back stiff.

Breathing sharp.

Classic cyclone stance.

Harshad muttered,

“Bas… aag jal rahi hai.”

Vidisha whispered,

“Didi ka volcano mode on.”

Arshik gulped,

“Hum waapas chale?”

Harshad didn’t bother answering—he just grabbed both by the back of their collars and pushed them forward gently.

Devansh took a deep breath and stepped ahead.

“Anya…”

She didn’t turn.

Didn’t move.

Didn’t even blink.

Just said coldly,

“Peeche mat aana tum log.”

Devansh froze.

Then looked back at Harshad, silently begging.

Harshad’s expression: Beta, tu hi jaa. Main backup hoon.

Devansh whispered, “Papa aap aage aao na…”

Harshad whispered back,

“Beta, Shaadi ke baad biwi ko manane ka kaam pati ka hota hai."

Devansh pleaded "Papa please."

Harshad replied "Jaa beta. Shubh ho."

Devansh inhaled deeply approaching slowly. He stopped just a few steps behind her.

“Anya…”

His voice soft, careful.

She still didn’t turn.

Finally, she spoke with a tight jaw,

“Mujhe explain mat karna Devansh. Not now.”

Devansh shook his head.

“I’m not explaining. I’m checking.

Are you okay?”

Silence.

Her shoulders dropped just a bit — not calm, just tired.

Harshad signaled the siblings to stay quiet.

They instantly zipped their lips and nodded vigorously.

Then Harshad stepped forward,

“Anu…”

She turned halfway and glared,

“Papa ye dono… UGH!”

She pointed directly at the twins.

“Iss baar inki wajah se mummy bhi naraz ho gayi! Aur yeh dono mujhe upar se bol rahe the ‘humne kya kiya’.”

Arshik and Vidisha instantly hid behind Harshad again.

Harshad looked at them like a disappointed teacher.

“Bas Line mein aa jao.”

Both came in front, heads down.

Harshad said firmly"Maafi."

Vidisha softly added "Sorry didi."

Arshik followed "Really sorry didi."

Ananya rolled her eyes.

“Mujhe sorry mat bolo Jao jaake mummy ko manao Mujhe nahi pata tum log kya karoge.”

The siblings nodded so fast their heads almost fell off.

But when Ananya looked away again, Devansh stepped closer—very gently—and touched her arm.

“Hey… look at me.”

She sighed but finally turned fully toward him.

Devansh met her eyes softly,

“Tum itna pressure kyun le rahi ho?

Sab theek ho jayega, okay? Papa bhi samajh gaye… mummy bhi maan jayengi. Tum sabke liye load mat lo.”

Ananya blinked, her anger still there but wavering.

Harshad added quietly, with a tiny smile,

“Aur agar koi load lena hi hai… toh in dono ka lo.”

Both siblings groaned.

Ananya finally let out a small, reluctant exhale — almost a laugh, almost a sigh.

Devansh leaned a bit closer,

“And I’m here Calming you down is part of my job description now.”

She narrowed her eyes,

“Huhh… tum bhi team up kar rahe the mere against.”

Devansh held his ears dramatically,

“Galti ho gayi, madam Aap gussa mat ho… warna papa mera permanent duty laga denge.”

Harshad smirked. "Haan. Kar diya."

Devansh's eyes widened. "Papa!"

Ananya finally—finally—let her shoulders relax, anger melting just slightly.

And Harshad whispered to the siblings,

“Bach gaye hum log…”

Ananya gave one last deadly glare to the twins.

“Jao. Jake mummy ko manao.

Aur jab tak woh maan nahi jaati…”

She pointed a finger at them sharply,

“Apni shakal mat dikhana. Samjhe?”

Both Vidisha and Arshik stood like two scolded school kids and nodded so hard they could’ve sprained their necks.

“Samajh gaye didi…”

“…bahut clearly,” they said in unison.

Ananya huffed, flicked her pallu back dramatically, and turned around.

Without another word, she walked away toward her room — each step loud enough to remind them she was still furious.

The moment she disappeared around the corner, both siblings let out a long breath.

“Bach gaye…” whispered Arshik.

“Thodi der ke liye,” corrected Vidisha.

Harshad crossed his arms.

“Tum dono ki asli test ab shuru hoti hai.”

The siblings gulped.

Devansh, who had been quietly watching Ananya walk away, muttered under his breath,

“Shaant ho jao… warna woh abhi wapas aa kar aur sunayegi.”

The siblings instantly straightened up.

“Chalo,” said Harshad with a sigh, “ab jao. Mummy ka gussa sambhalna. Tumhari didi se bhi dangerous hota hai kabhi kabhi.”

Both of them looked terrified as they walked toward Kavita’s room, shoulders touching, holding hands like they were going into war.

Meanwhile, Devansh looked in the direction Ananya had left and said softly,

“Main dekh kar aata hoon.”

Harshad nodded with a knowing smile.

And Devansh left to go after his wife — who was currently a walking bundle of anger, sass, and hurt.

Ananya stormed into her room, shut the door a bit louder than she intended, and threw her phone on the bed. Her mehendi-filled hands were in the air in pure frustration.

“Mere hi ghar wale mere papad banake kha jaate hain… mummy bhi naraz… aur upar se woh dono mujhe bol rahe the humne kya kiya… unbelievable!” She paced back and forth.

Just then the door opened quietly.

Devansh slipped in.

He didn’t say anything at first — just walked up behind her and gently held her by the shoulders.

“Bas,” he murmured softly. “Shant ho jao, Anya.”

But she shrugged his hands away and turned, her eyes still burning.

“Mat bolo mujhe shaant ho jao! Meri mummy mujhse naraz hai! Mera koi fault bhi nahi tha!”

Devansh smiled faintly. “Haan, pata hai… fault tumhara kabhi hota hi kaha hai?”

She glared at him. “Devansh!”

He raised his hands in surrender.

“Okay, okay. Suno.” He stepped closer. “Tum gussa karogi toh woh dono genuinely mar jayenge darr se.”

She looked away, crossing her arms.

“Accha hi hai. Darne do.”

He moved closer again, this time holding her arms gently.

“Sweetheart… tum gussa mein cute lagti ho, par scary bhi. Aur abhi tum wahi scary mode mein ho.”

She tried not to smile… and failed a little.

He noticed.

“Dekha?” he said softly. “Wapas aa gayi na smile. Ab batao… saans leli? Khush?”

Ananya rolled her eyes but her anger was melting.

“Devansh… mummy mujhse baat bhi nahi kar rahi…”

He tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear.

“Woh tumse naraz nahi hai. Sirf thodi hurt hai. Aur tum sabse zyada close ho unke — toh thoda drama toh banta hai.”

She sighed. “Par—”

He placed a finger on her lips.

“Bas. Ab tum calm ho jao hmm? Ab main jaake un dono ko bachaaun?” he teased.

Ananya finally cracked a small laugh.

“Haan… warna mummy se pehle main unko maar dungi.”

Devansh smirked, kissed her forehead gently, and whispered,

“That’s my girl.”

Meanwhile…

Arshik and Vidisha stood outside Kavita’s room like two terrorists waiting to surrender.

“Tu bol,” whispered Vidisha.

“Nahi tu bol,” whispered Arshik.

“Tu bada hai!”

“Tu chhoti hai — mummy teri zyada sunegi!”

Before they could argue more, the door opened.

Kavita stood there with folded arms and The Mom Look — the look that reduces even lions to mice.

The twins straightened immediately.

“Ma— m-maa…”

“Woh… mummy hum…”

“Chup. Dono.” Kavita said, her expression stone cold.

The siblings’ mouths snapped shut like zips.

Then Kavita walked to the couch and sat, staring at them.

Arshik whispered, “Yeh toh interrogation room lag raha hai…”

Vidisha elbowed him sharply.

They both stepped closer.

Vidisha started, “Mummy please—”

Kavita raised her eyebrow.

Vidisha instantly changed tone:

“Maa… maa… meri pyaari maa…

Arshik also immediately joined,

“World’s best mummy… humari jaan… humara oxygen…”

“Bas.” Kavita said dryly. “Drama mat karo.”

Both shut up instantly.

Then Vidisha suddenly burst into tears again,

“Mummy sorryyyy! Humne jaan-boojhkar nahi chupaya tha!”

Arshik, seeing her cry, panicked and added,

“Haan mummy! Kasam se galti thi! Kasam se love story serious ho gayi yaar— I mean— mummy sorry!.

Kavita stared at them blankly.

“Tum dono… itna badi baat… humse nahi… par Ananya se bhi nahi bola. Kyu?”

Both looked down like guilty parrots.

Vidisha mumbled,

“Mummy… dar lag raha tha…”

Arshik nodded,

“Haan mummy… hum soch rahe the aap log gussa ho jaoge…”

Kavita sighed loudly.

“Gussa?” She put her hand on her chest dramatically.

“Gussa tab hoti jab mujhe pata hota! Par yaha toh main last person thi jise pata chala!”

The siblings immediately dropped to their knees.

“Mummy please forgive usss!”

“Ma humko pyaar karna hai bas!”

“Humne koi crime nahi kiya mummy!”

“Hum doodh chori nahi kiya tha mummy promise!”

Kavita covered her face with her dupatta for a second — because she almost laughed — but then returned to strict mode.

“Last chance,” she said.

The siblings instantly grabbed her hands like clinging baby pandas.

“Last and final chance mummyyyy!”

“Promise mummy! Ab kuch bhi nahi chupaenge!”

“Main toh WhatsApp live location bhi on karke rakhunga!” said Arshik.

Vidisha elbowed him “Idiot!”

Kavita finally let out a breath and softened.

“Thik hai… bas.”

They both gasped in relief and crushed her in a hug.

Just then Ananya walked in, arms folded, leaning on the door.

“Ho gaya drama?”

The siblings jumped up.

“Mummy maan gayi!” they shouted.

Ananya stared at them.

“Lucky ho tum dono. Mummy ne maaf kar diya — main nahi karne wali thi.”

Vidisha whispered to Arshik,

“Didi ko toh sham tak gussa rahega….

Ananya narrowed her eyes.

“Maine suna.”

They both straightened like soldiers.

“Get. Out.”

Ananya said in a deadly calm tone.

Arshik and Vidisha didn’t wait even a second.

“YES DI!”

“GOING DI!”

They bolted out of the room like two rockets, almost bumping into each other at the door before disappearing down the hallway.

Kavita couldn’t help it — a soft chuckle escaped her.

Ananya watched their dramatic “escape run” and shook her head,

“Drama pieces. Pure drama pieces.”

She sighed and turned back toward Kavita.

Kavita was sitting on the couch, arms crossed, pretending to still be mad.

Her expression said angry, but her eyes were already softening.

Ananya took slow steps, then flashed her most mischievous, cheeky smile — the one she only used when she wanted to melt her mom.

“Maa…” she sang sweetly, like a little kid trying to convince her parent after doing mischief.

No response.

Kavita kept looking away, lifting her chin in fake attitude.

Ananya moved closer…

then closer…

then bent down and rested her head on Kavita’s lap like a stubborn child.

She took Kavita’s hand, placed it on her own head and said in her cute, childish voice — the one that melts absolutely ANYONE:

“O meri mumma… meri pyaari mumma…

Mann jao naaa… pleaseee…”

Kavita bit her lip, trying her best not to smile.

Ananya made puppy eyes.

Extra big puppy eyes.

“Maa… dekho na… main toh itni seedhi hoon… innocent hoon… sabse cute bhi hoon…”

She blinked dramatically.

“…aur sabse zyada aapki hoon.”

Kavita’s lips twitched.

“Meri maa…” Ananya whispered in a soft baby tone,

“…naraz hogi toh main kese rahungi, hmm?”

Kavita finally gave up and burst into a laugh.

“Bas! Bas Ananya!” she said, tapping her forehead.

“Main toh in dono pe gussa thi, tu nahi!”

Ananya grinned immediately, sitting up.

“Dekha? Mujhe pata tha. Mera charm kabhi fail nahi hota.”

Kavita flicked her forehead lovingly.

“Charm nahi, Drama Queen hai tu.”

Ananya gasped dramatically.

“Maa!!”

Kavita pulled her into a hug, laughing.

“Accha baba… maan gayi. Khush?”

Ananya tightened the hug.

“Very very khush.”

“Ye toh cheating hai!”

A loud complaining voice echoed from the door.

Ananya and Kavita turned their heads together.

There stood Arshik and Vidisha, half bodies inside, half outside — peeking like two suspicious squirrels.

Vidisha holding her ears dramatically,

Arshik glaring with full betrayal expression.

Ananya raised her eyebrow.

“Oh hello? Kis baat ki cheating?”

Vidisha pouted, stepping in with tiny steps,

“Di… hum dono ko andar aane nahi diya…

par aap khud yaha maa ke paas aa gayi? Yeh injustice hai!”

Arshik nodded aggressively,

“Bilkul! Hum dono ne itni mehnat ki mummy ko manane ki… aur aap seedha aa ke hug le gayi? Aur shakal dikhane se bhi mana kiya tha. Unfair play, didi. Very unfair.”

Ananya crossed her arms.

“First of all, drama kings and queens…

maine tumhe mana nahi kiya tha.

I just said—

‘Jab tak mummy Maan nahi jati, don’t show me your faces.’

Not that you can’t show your face to mummy!”

They both looked at each other like they just cracked the code of the universe.

Kavita shook her head with a smile,

“Tum dono ko toh bas mauka chahiye nautanki karne ka.”

Vidisha immediately ran to Kavita and hugged her,

“Mummyyy… please forgive us na…

dekho main aur nahi ronay wali, promise.”

Kavita smiled softly and kissed her head,

“Bas, bas… ro mat ab.”

Arshik took one step inside… then paused.

“Mummy… hug milega? Ya quota khatam?”

Ananya snorted.

“Quota khatam.”

Arshik glared at her,

“Main mummy se pooch raha hoon, tumse nahi!”

Kavita opened her arms.

“Aaja idhar.”

He ran straight into her hug like a 6-year-old.

Ananya shook her head,

“Pagal log…”

Kavita, Arshik and Vidisha were still gathered around, laughing and finally relaxed when a familiar deep voice cut through:

“Chalo meri biwi ko chhodo tum log.

Jab se aayi hai tumhare paas hi chipki hui hai.”

Everyone turned.

There stood Devansh, hands in pockets, expression straight but eyes full of mischief and a hint of possessiveness.

Before Ananya could process what he said, he stepped forward, slid an arm around her waist, and in one smooth move—

picked her up.

“D–Devansh! Neeche utaaro!” Ananya said, lightly hitting his shoulder, half embarrassed, half annoyed.

“Bilkul nahi,” he said calmly, as if carrying her was the most normal everyday chore.

“Poora din tum inn dono shaitano ke peeche bhaag rahi ho…ab thodi der meri bhi sun lo.”

Arshik smirked,

“Jiju, kidnapping is illegal.”

Devansh didn’t even look back.

“Biwi hai toh. Legal hai.”

Vidisha giggled,

“Di, enjoy!”

Ananya glared at her siblings,

“Tum dono ghar aa rahe ho na?

Dekhna tumhari khair nahi.”

They both hid behind Kavita.

Harshad who just came shook his head with a smile,

“Le jao Devansh. Thodi der hum sambhal lenge Anu ke jungli bacchon ko.”

“Exactly,” Devansh said, tightening his hold slightly.

“She needs a break.”

And without waiting another second, he walked out of the room carrying Ananya—

her hands instinctively clutching his shoulders, her face turning a little red from all the eyes on them.

“Devansh… sab dekh rahe hain…” she muttered.

“Dekhne do,” he said, not slowing down even a bit.

“Meri biwi ho. Koi problem?”

Ananya rolled her eyes but a tiny smile tugged her lips.

He pushed open their room door and gently placed her down on the bed.

As soon as Devansh put Ananya down on the bed, she folded her arms and glared at him.

“Tum na… tum bohot hi zyada over ho!”

And before he could reply, she grabbed the nearest pillow—

SWOOSH

She lifted it over her head, ready to bonk him.

But Devansh was quicker.

In one smooth move, he caught her wrist mid-air.

“Oh hello!” he said, eyebrows raised.

“Gussa mat nikaalo mattress pe. Mattress bechaari ka kya kasoor?”

Ananya huffed,

“Mujhe mat sikhao! Tumhari wajah se ab sab mujhe tease karenge!”

Devansh calmly took the pillow from her hand and tossed it aside.

Then—dramatically, like he was dealing with a 5-year-old after a tantrum—

he sat beside her, placed his hand on her head, and started patting.

“Soo ja, mera baccha… Soo jaaa… aaaa…”

He dragged the last “aa” so long it sounded ridiculous.

Ananya’s jaw dropped.

“DEVANSH! Main bacchi lagti hoon tumhe!?” she yelled, pushing his hand off.

“Thodi si,” he said with a straight face.

“Thodi si!?” she repeated, offended.

“Haan… thodi si,” he said again, pinching his fingers to show a tiny gap.

“Bas itni si.”

Ananya grabbed the second pillow to throw at him—

He immediately covered his head with both hands.

“AREY! Bacche pe hamla!?”

“You called me baccha!” she shouted.

Devansh burst out laughing,

“Accha baba, sorry sorry. Nahi bolunga.”

She crossed her arms and looked away with a dramatic “Huhh.”

Devansh leaned slightly to see her face,

“Ab theek? Ya ek aur ‘so jaa mera baccha’ bolu?”

Ananya shot him a look so sharp that he instantly sat up straight.

“Okay, okay! Nahi bolta! Calm down sherni!”

But the corner of her lips twitched—

she was trying very hard not to smile.

Devansh raised an eyebrow and asked teasingly,

“Are you on your periods? Itna gussa aa raha hai aaj tumhe?”

Ananya gasped dramatically, “DEVANSH!”

He held up both hands defensively.

“What? Normal question! Aaj toh tum sabko khane ka plan bana rahi ho.”

She threw him another fake glare, pulled the blanket over her face and turned away.

Devansh chuckled, gently tucked the blanket around her, and said:

“Thik hai, Madamm. Goodnight. Kal subah normal version wapas aa jaye, please.”

Ananya just made a muffled “Hmph!” under the blanket.

Ananya muttered something under her breath. Devansh chuckled softly shaking his head. He gently pulled the blanket over her drew her closer and rested her head on his lap.

"Soo jao jaan" he whispered stroking her hair gently. "Sab theek ho jayega subah."

Devansh looked at her puffed-up angry face and burst into laughter.

“Kitni cute ho,” he said, trying to hold back his grin as he gently bite her cheek.

Ananya snapped her glare at him, rubbing her cheek dramatically.

“Touch mat karo!” she warned.

Devansh raised both hands like she was a ticking bomb.

“Arre madam, mazaak kar raha tha! Tum toh aaj full volcano mode mein ho.”

Ananya huffed, crossing her arms, still muttering something under her breath.

Devansh, still chuckling, shook his head.

“Bas bas… aise ghoorogi toh main hi pighal jaunga,” he joked softly.

Her glare stayed, but her ears turned slightly red, which only made Devansh laugh harder—quietly this time, before she threw another pillow at him.

Devansh tried not to laugh as Ananya kept grumbling, throwing him side–eye every few seconds.

He just shook his head, pulled the blanket over both of them, and said calmly,

“Chalo… ab aaram karo. Aaj ke liye drama quota full ho gaya.”

Ananya let out one final huff but didn’t move away.

Slowly, the room quietened—no arguing siblings, no scolding parents, just the two of them finally cooling down after a whirlwind of a day.

______________________________________________________________________________________

Hush!!!! Baar baar bacche aaj Arshik aur Vidisha 😬

Well aaj ka chapter kesa tha batana zaroor 😌