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Author's POV
The morning had shifted. Where earlier there were whispers of tears and muffled apologies upstairs, now, downstairs, there was a quiet tension thick enough to cut through.
Isha walked down slowly, her steps gentle but firm, flanked on both sides by Dhruv and abhimanyu her baba sa, with ayivansh and Ranveer just behind them, chatting loudly on purpose to keep her distracted.
She wasn't smiling anymore. Not like upstairs. Her face was composed. Calm. But inside, there was a wildfire burning - a delicate mix of hurt, anger, and resolve.
Shivansh, who had been pacing the edge of the living room, immediately stopped when he heard the sound of her footsteps.
His head snapped toward the stairs.
She was here.
He moved instantly.
His voice, lower than usual, was almost pleading.
"Isha... I-"
But she walked right past him.
Not a glance.
Not a blink.
As if he didn't even exist.
He stood there frozen, confused.
Her silence wasn't passive.
It was powerful.
And it stung sharper than any angry word she could've hurled at him.
The boys smirked behind her, throwing casual shrugs at Shivansh as if to say, "Told you not to mess up."
They all reached the dining area, where the rest of the family was already seated, plates half-filled, warm breakfast spreading aroma in the air. Everyone looked up at her with concern, but also relief.
"Beta, you okay now?" Shivansh's choti maa sa asked gently, pulling out a chair for her.
"You cried so much, Isha," his dadi sa added, half-scolding, half-loving. "Don't take things to heart. You're so delicate."
"Shivansh is like this only," his chote papa said laughed lightly. "That robot doesn't even understand emotions unless they scream at him."
Isha gave a polite nod, still without speaking much.
Her seat was pulled by dhruv, and she sat.
Everyone settled around her.
Shivansh moved forward to sit beside her - his usual spot, his silent claim.
But Dhruv smoothly slipped into the chair next to her, grinning and placing a glass of orange juice in front of her like a protective guard.
Shivansh was forced to take the seat across the table.
And still... she didn't look at him.
Not once.
He watched her, every movement - from the way she adjusted her dupatta, to how her fingers trembled when she picked up the glass, to how her eyes lingered anywhere but on him.
"Here, have something," said Shivansh's choti maa sa gently, putting a besan chila on her plate.
Isha looked up briefly at her and shook her head softly. "No thank you, choti maa sa, I already-"
But the woman cut her off with a warm but firm voice.
"You're a grown-up, not a child. And grown-ups don't skip meals over silly boys."
There were a few quiet chuckles around the table.
"Just eat a little," his/her mother added, touching Isha's arm with concern. "You'll feel better."
So reluctantly, she let them place just a small amount on her plate. She didn't touch it yet.
And still... Shivansh stared, silently pleading with his eyes. Every second that passed without her glance was a punishment.
He couldn't take it anymore.
He leaned forward slightly, voice low but filled with urgency.
"Isha, at least look at me once."
No response.
She picked up her chila and stirred the food absentmindedly.
"Please... can we talk?"
Dhruv, who was enjoying every bit of the scene, smirked and leaned back lazily in his chair. "She's eating. Don't disturb her."
Avyansh added, "Yeah, bhai sa. Timing is important. Where were you when she was crying?"
Shivansh clenched his jaw but said nothing.
He tried again, softly this time, directly toward her.
"Isha... I know you're angry. But don't do this. At least let me explain."
She paused mid-spoon, but then continued without acknowledging him.
It was brutal.
Because sometimes silence isn't the absence of words-
It's the echo of every unspoken pain.
She didn't need to shout.
She didn't need to cry.
Her calm, collected demeanor spoke louder than any outburst.
Everyone at the table felt the shift. They exchanged looks, realizing that something had changed between the two.
And Shivansh?
He felt it most.
His chest felt tight.
Because this time... he hadn't just upset her.
He had broken something.
And now, she wasn't even willing to let him pick up the pieces.
The breakfast table was lively. Warm sunlight filtered through the tall palace windows, bathing the dining area in a soft golden hue. Laughter and playful banter floated through the air as plates clinked and the aroma of cheelas, poha, and fresh fruit mingled with the fragrance of masala chai.
The long table in the palace dining hall was surrounded by laughter and clinking cutlery as breakfast continued in full swing. Plates were being passed around, fresh juice poured, and teasing remarks floated around like sweet spice in the air. The atmosphere was lighter than ever, like the weight of the previous day had lifted.
Isha sat between Dhruv and Ranveer, her smile rare but glowing. After the whirlwind morning and a night full of surprises, her laughter sounded like the sweetest music to Shivansh's ears. He had been quietly stealing glances at her ever since she walked in-dressed simply, her hair falling softly down her shoulders, no make-up, no pretenses, just... Isha.
When she laughed, her eyes sparkled-and he felt that familiar twist in his chest. She was finally smiling. For a moment, the heaviness in his heart lightened.
It came naturally, brightening her face like a warm sunrise. Her eyes crinkled a little, her lips parted in a gentle laugh as Ranveer cracked a harmless joke at Aviyansh's expense.
Shivansh, sitting at the other end beside his grandfather, caught the rare moment. His gaze lingered on Isha longer than it should have, as if his eyes were trying to capture that very image in his memory. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips, subtle but unmistakably genuine. She's smiling. She's okay now, he thought silently, a wave of relief washing over him.
Shivansh had just taken a sip of his black coffee when he noticed her looking toward his grandfather. Isha subtly signed something with her hands, her fingers moving with the silent confidence of someone who had done this before. His grandfather, the great elder of the family, gave her a nod with a proud little smile and responded with a slight movement of his head as though answering her wordlessly.
And then... came the throat clear.
Everyone turned toward the respected elder, Ranvijay Raghuvanshi-his presence always commanding attention.
"Abhimanyu... Meera beta," he said, leaning back in his chair, his eyes twinkling, "now that the pooja is done and breakfast has filled us up, I think it's time you both took a little time for yourselves. Go out, enjoy. Spend the day together."
Meera isha maa sa, shivansh maa blinked. "Now?"
Abhimanyu isha's baba sa sat straighter. "Baba, no no-there's work, I have some calls, the board-"
"Oh come on!" Isha interrupted with a laugh, pushing her chair back. "Stop making excuses. You're not going to the company today."
"But-"
"No buts, baba sa," she said, walking over to Maa sa, who had already stood up in anticipation. "You deserve a date. It's been so long since you two actually spent time together. Go!"
"And company can wait," Isha interjected quickly with a mischievous smile, her tone light but firm. She stood up, placing her hands dramatically on her hips. "Now you listen to me, baba sa-today, you are going on a date."
Shivansh hid his grin behind his coffee cup.
Meera giggled, clearly delighted, while Abhimanyu looked helpless.
"Maa-sa, come," Isha said, grabbing Meera's hand as the older woman also rose from her seat. "You're going to get ready right now. And you-" she pointed to her father, "-you too! But honestly, I think you're already fine. It's only maa-sa who needs a little makeover to look more beautiful but she is most beautiful women here but still on her special day she need it."
Everyone burst into laughter.
Dhruv grinned, "Yeah, baba sa, Maa sa deserves a makeover. You just... stand there and nod."
Ranveer chimed in, "And carry the shopping bags."
"Don't forget to swipe the card!" Aviyansh added cheekily.
"Exactly!" Isha said, leading Meera upstairs. "You're going out. Movie, lunch, mall, shopping... go anywhere. But don't come back before evening."
"Hey!" Meera laughed, half protesting, but Isha already had her by the hand and was leading her away from the table.
"Listen," Isha called over her shoulder as she walked, "go anywhere you want. Watch a movie, have lunch, do some shopping. And don't even think about coming back before evening. Just disappear. I'm serious."
Meera looked surprised, laughing. "But where will we go in these clothes?"
"I'll handle everything," Isha declared confidently, and then winked at Shivansh's mother. "Leave it to me."
Everyone at the table burst into laughter. Ranveer leaned toward Dhruv. "Dude, our sister has turned into a total event manager."
"I think she's always been like this," Dhruv whispered back, shaking his head with a proud smile.
Just as Isha disappeared down the corridor with Meera, Shivansh's dadi beamed. "Dekha, yeh ladki kitni samajhdar hai. Sab kuch sambhal leti hai."
( see, she is so sensible. She handle everything perfectly.)
Soon, she had Meera seated in front of the mirror in her room. Isha carefully dabbed some blush, touched up her mother-in-law's eyes with kajal, and gently styled her hair. It wasn't over the top-just enough to make Meera glow. Isha stood back, nodding in approval.
"You look stunning," she whispered, before pulling out a black kajal pencil and placing a small kaala teeka behind her Maasa's left ear. "Bas, ab koi nazar nahi lagegi."
When they both came downstairs, everyone paused for a beat.
A few minutes later, the two women returned. Meera had changed into a soft pastel saree, her hair done lightly in waves, with subtle makeup enhancing her natural beauty. Isha stood beside her, fussing with a few final touches.
"Maa-sa, you're looking like a heroine," Isha said, smiling with genuine affection.
Shivansh watched quietly as Isha held her Maasa's hand like a proud daughter. Her eyes sparkled with childlike joy.
"Wah!" said Dada sa, pretending to cover his eyes. "Kya baat hai Meera beta, ab toh Abhimanyu ko darna chahiye. Don't lose him to someone at the mall!"
Everyone burst into laughter again.
Ranveer teased, "Careful bade baba, she might just run off with someone younger!"
"Jealous?" Meera quipped back, surprising everyone with her quick wit.
Dhruv clapped dramatically, "Okay! Couple of the day award goes to Abhi-Mee!"
Shivansh, watching from the side, couldn't agree more.
"Bas ek minute..." Isha whispered and walked around to Meera's ear, placing a small black teeka behind it.
( just one minute. )
"What's this for?" Meera asked, curious.
"To keep buri nazar away. You're glowing too much today, maa-sa," Isha said with a wink.
Everyone came forward to bid them goodbye. There were cheers and teasing remarks as Abhimanyu joined them, holding his wife's hand like a newlywed.
"Go enjoy," Shivansh's grandmother said, gently patting Meera's back.
"Don't come back early!" isha choti maa sa added with a giggle.
"I'll plan a fourth honeymoon next," teased Abhimaan.
"Okay, okay, now you both leave," Isha announced, stepping forward. "Your car is ready. And don't you dare come back before sunset."
Meera smiled and hugged Isha tightly, "Thank you, beta."
Isha whispered in her ear, "Enjoy your day, Maasa. Today's going to be special for you. Very, very special."
They walked out amid cheerful goodbyes and loud teasing. The couple stepped into their car, and as the vehicle slowly rolled out from the grand palace gates, Meera looked back once. Isha waved gently.
With one final wave, the couple stepped into the sleek black car that had been waiting outside. The palace gates opened slowly, and as the car began to roll down the long driveway, Isha let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.
Then-her eyes sharpened.
Now the real plan would begin.
And then-when the car disappeared from sight-Isha turned sharply and placed her hands on her waist, walking directly to Dada sa with the full energy of a commander-in-chief.
"Okay, Dada sa, you sent the invitation, right? You didn't forget anything?"
He gave a mock salute. "Ma'am, everything's done, as per your detailed instructions."
"Good." She nodded seriously. "Now go. Rest. Shoo!"
"I-"
"No arguing! If you want to help, go sit in the living room and supervise while sipping juice. That's more than enough."
He chuckled and shuffled away, mumbling about "these modern generals."
Just then, Dhruv, Ranveer, and Aviyansh appeared behind her, arms crossed.
"Commander Isha," Ranveer said, "Your troops are ready."
"Reporting for duty," said Aviyansh, grinning.
Dhruv added, "Let's do this."
She turned to them with a sharp smile. "We've got one hour. Change into lighter clothes, take a quick break, and meet me here in sixty minutes. Tonight's party is going to be big. And remember-Maa sa and baba sa don't know anything. It's a surprise."
Everyone nodded.
What no one noticed was Shivansh, still standing by the stairs, watching everything quietly. He had heard every word. He knew what she was planning, and yet, he stayed still-admiring how she took control of the moment.
He wanted to talk to her. Just once. Just a small conversation. Maybe even say "you looked happy."
But when he followed her toward the guest room, she didn't even glance at him. She walked right past, turned the handle, and shut the door softly but firmly... right in front of him.
He stood there in silence.
The palace had started to buzz again. The morning quiet had transformed into a dance of hushed chaos. Every corner whispered of preparation-the hum of vacuum cleaners, the clinking of cutlery, the movement of chairs being shifted, and the rustle of new décor being unpacked.
Exactly one hour later, just as Isha had instructed, Dhruv, Aviyansh, and Ranveer appeared in the hallway, dressed in casual jeans and T-shirts, their expressions somewhere between curiosity and amusement.
"You know," Ranveer said as he adjusted his collar, "it's kind of scary how serious she was about this whole surprise plan."
Dhruv nodded, whispering like he was about to enter a war zone. "One wrong move and she might make us mop the palace floors."
Aviyansh grinned, "Let's just hope she doesn't make us iron the curtains."
Just then, Isha emerged from the guest room. She wore a simple kurta and leggings, hair tied up in a messy bun, clipboard in hand, and a pen tucked behind her ear. She looked like a mix between a bride's event planner and a drill sergeant.
"You're late," she said without looking up.
"We're on time," Dhruv protested.
"I function by my clock," she shot back, eyes narrowed. "Anyway, enough talking. Ranveer bhai sa-you're on balloons and lighting. Bhaiyuu, streamers and stage setup. Aviyansh, you're with me for guest tracking, return gifts and gifts."
They all exchanged a look. Yep, she meant business.
"Wait," Aviyansh raised his hand. "Gifts?"
She grinned mischievously, "You think I'd let the couple come back home empty-handed? We're doing a surprise celebration for their anniversary tonight. Cake, decorations, lights, guests, AND gifts. Now move!"
With that, Isha marched ahead like a commander inspecting her troops.
In the Living Room
The living room was now their war base. Isha had created a master plan-sketches of where the cake table would go, where the seating should be arranged, even how the lighting should fall. She moved like a whirlwind, placing cushions properly, realigning flower vases, and checking everything twice.
Suddenly, the sound of familiar voices, laughter, and dragging trolleys came from the main door.
Isha's ears perked up.
She turned.
And then she froze.
Her heart did a little flip.
There they were.
Her people.
Arjun walked in first, dragging a suitcase with one hand and ruffling his hair with the other. Behind him was ritvik tall and effortlessly cool, balancing coffee cups and a backpack. Then came Aarav, bouncing a tennis ball in his palm and smiling wide. Ishika, clutching her tote bag and wearing the most dramatic sunglasses possible, entered like a runway queen. And finally, prisha smiling sweetly, waving with both hands like they hadn't seen each other in years.
They had arrived.
Her entire core group.
Her chosen family.
Without hesitation, Isha dropped the clipboard.
"YOU GUYS!"
They all screamed together in joy.
Within seconds, she was pulled into a tight, warm, chaotic group hug.
"I missed you so much, yaar!" Arav said, ruffling her hair.
"We thought you'd forget us in this royal palace," Ishika teased.
"Did you eat anything today?" ritvik asked seriously.
"Ugh, this hug. Someone stepped on my toe!" Arjun winced.
"I did not!" prisha said. "You always complain!"
Isha clutched them all tightly, burying her face into someone's shoulder, laughing and maybe almost tearing up. "I was waiting like mad! It's not even the same without you guys!"
Arjun grinned. "Well, now we're here. From now till the end, you're stuck with us."
Ishika narrowed her eyes playfully. "You look more stressed than happy. Should we be worried?"
Isha pulled back, hands on her hips. "Stressed? I'm dying. There's so much to do! And take rest later for now help me okay! "
The group groaned.
"Oh no," Aarav muttered. "We're her laborers again."
"Why do we love her?" ritvik asked the group.
"Because she is our jaan," Ishika whispered.
Isha laughed, already feeling lighter. "Come in properly, na! Leave your bags near the staircase. Shivansh and Choti Maa sa are here."
Just then, Shivansh entered from the hallway. His eyes immediately found Isha, then drifted to the group now filling his palace entrance with noise and laughter.
Behind him came Choti Maa sa, her smile already warm and welcoming.
"Aree wah!" she said cheerfully. "welcome, finally you guys came. you know since, when she was waiting for you."
"Yes, Maa sa," Isha said with a proud smile. "My troublemakers."
"Namaste, choti maa! " they all said in perfect unison.
Shivansh gave a small nod. "Welcome," he said, a little too soft. But his eyes lingered on Isha for a moment longer.
Ritvik stepped forward. "you did something, right? She's angry with you. " he asked Shivansh with a smirk.
"Don't look at me like that," Shivansh replied dryly.
"ignore him," Isha muttered at him as she passed by.
Choti Maasa chuckled. "Come, kids. You must be tired. Let me get you some snacks and something cold."
They smiled politely, grateful for the offer, but before they could agree-
Isha clapped her hands once.
"No snacks yet!"
Everyone turned to her.
"You all came late," she said, grabbing her clipboard again. "I've been managing this entire palace like a one-woman army. There's still table arrangements, welcome tags, playlist, and the favors-don't even get me started on the favors!"
"Oh no," Ishika groaned. "She's back to commander mode."
"I'm not joking, Ishika! Time is running, okay? You all are now my official staff. Split up!"
Shivansh raised his hand. "Before we do... mummy papa? They didn't come?"
Isha blinked. "Wait... yeah. Where are they?"
Arjun smiled and answered, "They'll come by evening flight. Papa had some urgent office work. Don't worry. They'll reach just in time."
Isha nodded, visibly relieved. "Okay. Fine. Then until they come, we'll finish everything. No excuses."
"Why do I feel like this is less of a welcome and more of a kidnap?" Aarav whispered.
Isha pointed a pen at him. "You're on floral detailing. Ishika, you're with me. Arjun-lights and sound with Ranveer bhai sa. Ritvik bhaiya-manage the vendors arriving. Prisha-you're in charge of the gift counters."
Ishika sighed dramatically. "She didn't even say hi properly, and now we're all working."
"Call it a warm-up," Isha smirked.
As the friends scattered with giggles and fake protests, Shivansh watched the storm that had entered his house-and turned it into something alive.
Choti Maa sa looked at him and smiled knowingly. "You've got a wild one," she said softly.
He didn't respond.
Just kept watching Isha.
Taming chaos.
Owning every inch of the moment.
And for the first time in hours, the palace didn't feel heavy with silence.
It felt like home.
Prisha came in carrying a tray of lemonade. "Did someone order caffeine-free madness?"
"God, yes," Dhruv grabbed a glass. "She's possessed."
"She's inspired," ishika corrected, sipping hers while sitting beside arav.
Ritvik walked by with a half-hearted smile. "This much drama for an anniversary?"
Isha paused and looked at her. "No. This much love. Something I don't expect you to understand.
Ranveer whispered to Dhruv, "Oof. Burn level: dangerous."
Meanwhile... Upstairs
Shivansh stood on the balcony of his room, watching the courtyard below. He could see the decorators arriving now-white fairy lights, small lanterns, floral arrangements... Isha had ordered everything.
His choti maa sa walked into the room without knocking. "She's doing all this for your dad and Maa sa," she said quietly.
"I know," he replied, not turning to look at her.
"She's doing it for you," she added softly. "maybe you will do something like this for her.. someday."
He turned slowly, meeting her eyes. "I' will but she's not talking to me. "
"But you want her to," his choti maa sa said, laying a hand on his shoulder. "Don't be stubborn, Shivansh. You should try, you are the one who shout at her."
He didn't answer.
Back in the Kitchen
Isha stood with the palace chef, her sleeves rolled up.
"No garlic in Maa sa's pasta," she instructed. "And use less oil. And for Baba sa make his favorite dal. Less salt, mild spice. And please, make mawa cake for dessert."
The chef nodded. And dhruv said "You remembered all their favorites."
"I always do," she said with a smile, then turned to leave.
As she stepped into the hallway, she bumped into Arjun.
"Careful," he said, steadying her.
"I don't have time to be careful," she said, brushing past him. "Tell me you ordered the cake."
"I ordered two. One chocolate truffle, one butterscotch. Backup plan, in case you throw one at someone."
She chuckled, "Smart boy."
They high-fived like partners in crime.
Evening Begins to Set In
By late afternoon, the transformation was magical.
The once-palatial lounge had turned into a cozy celebration spot. String lights glowed warmly from the ceilings. A beautiful floral arch had been set up near the entrance, and the main living area now had soft music playing in the background. Rose petals were scattered in the hallway. The scent of freshly baked cake lingered in the air. Everything glowed.
Isha stood at the center of the room, eyes scanning every corner.
Prisha walked up beside her. "You did it, isha. This is beautiful."
Isha exhaled deeply, finally allowing herself to smile. "Let's hope they like it."
From the courtyard to the corridors, from the decorated entryway to the glowing chandeliers, the air pulsed with anticipation. And at the heart of it all... was Isha.
She moved like a storm dressed in pastels-hair tied back into a hurried bun, her dupatta constantly slipping off her shoulder, and her hands full of marigold petals, a checklist, or her phone. Her eyes missed nothing, catching a tilted frame on the wall, a misaligned candle on the console, a flickering light that needed fixing. Her brain was a buzzing control room, firing orders, counting items, calculating time.
This wasn't just a surprise celebration. For Isha, this was a message. A message that love deserves attention. That care is shown not in words, but in every fold of a napkin, every polished spoon, every chosen flower.
Her entire being was focused on making everything perfect-not for herself, but for the family who had loved her like their own. For her Bade Papa and Maasa. For the first couple in her life who had shown her what a marriage built on friendship looked like.
She wanted no mistake. No mood ruined. No broken fairy light. Not even one dish that wasn't a favorite.
But while her attention was scattered across the decor and the function-someone else's attention was entirely fixed on her.
Shivansh.
He had been quieter than usual since morning, his usual calm demeanor hiding something heavier. The words he had said to her earlier still echoed in his ears-sharp, impatient, unnecessary.
He had shouted at her in front of others.
And now, watching her flit about the palace like a determined flame, ignoring him completely, he realized the guilt sat deeper than he thought.
He had hurt her.
And what made it worse was that she wasn't reacting-not with coldness, not with anger. She was just... not reacting to him at all.
That silence was louder than any argument.
So, he followed her.
Like a shadow.
Through the hallway where she was checking flower arrangements.
Into the kitchen where she instructed the chef about Maa sa's favorite dish.
Past the storeroom where she checked on the candles.
And into the living room where the decorators were putting up final touches.
Everywhere she went, he was right behind her. Quiet. Hesitant. Watching. Hoping.
She noticed.
Of course she did.
At first, she ignored it. Then she grew mildly irritated. And then-when he subtly let her dupatta get stuck on his watch while pretending to walk beside her-she stopped dead in her tracks.
"Are you serious?" she muttered under her breath, jerking it free without even looking at him. He didn't respond.
And then... it all exploded.
In the middle of the living room, surrounded by her friends, his family, and the staff with Dhruv and Ranveer who were helping with lighting, and Prisha arranging cushions, Isha turned around so suddenly that Shivansh had to halt a step away from crashing into her.
"MOVE!" she snapped. "Move, Shivansh! You're following me like some lost puppy!"
Everyone froze.
He blinked.
She raised a hand in the air, pure frustration dripping from her voice. "What is wrong with you? Can't you just sit somewhere silently for five minutes? Or are you on a mission to test my patience?"
"I-" he opened his mouth.
She didn't let him speak.
"No. You know what? Just don't. I am already dealing with a hundred things here. I am already frustrated because of you, and now you're hovering behind me like I'm going to disappear if you blink!" she hissed.
He stayed silent.
"And what is with this cute little act of getting my dupatta stuck?" she threw up her hands. "Do you want attention? A cookie? A gold medal?"
Still, he didn't speak. Just... smiled.
A soft, guilty, almost relieved smile.
She paused. Eyes narrowed.
"WHY are you smiling?" she shouted. "Is there something stuck on my face? Did I grow a second head while yelling at you?"
He still didn't answer. His eyes simply drank her in-the flushed cheeks, the fire in her tone, the way her chest rose and fell with every word, the way her hands waved in frustration.
Because finally...
She was looking at him.
Talking to him.
Even if it meant getting scolded, at least she wasn't pretending he didn't exist anymore.
Isha stared at him, stunned by his calm. "Say something!" she demanded. "Have you lost your tongue now?"
Still, nothing. Just that smile.
With a furious huff, she stomped her foot on the floor. "Ughh, I can't deal with you right now!" she grumbled, turning on her heel and walking away, muttering, "Puppy ho ya insaan, chhodna padta hai jab kaam zaroori ho..."
The room burst into soft, amused chuckles.
Dhruv bit back a grin and whispered to Ranveer, "Honestly, she's better than the decorators. She just redesigned his emotions in under five minutes."
Ranveer snorted. "She didn't just scold him. She gave him a TED Talk."
Prisha, standing nearby with a tray of candles, had a soft smile on her lips. "He deserved that, but the way he smiled... like a child finally being forgiven."
Ishika rolled her eyes dramatically and muttered under her breath, "that's like my soul sister..."
Every one was enjoying their comments on him. And now their attention was on the way Isha continued managing everything-fixing flowers, organizing the trays, asking the staff to rehearse the surprise entry plan.
She looked powerful.
Tired, but glowing. Stressed, but fierce. Angry, but still loving.
And as Shivansh stood there, watching her take control of the chaos, he realized something deep and unshakable.
Even when she was angry at him... she still made everything better.
Even when she wasn't speaking to him... she still moved his world.
And even when she scolded him in front of everyone...
He was falling for her even harder.
The palace buzzed like a well-rehearsed orchestra preparing for its final performance.
Every corner was being fine-tuned under Isha's strict eyes-candles were lit and extinguished and relit again because "The angle is wrong." Trays were rearranged three times. Even the cushions on the sofas had been fluffed, rotated, and threatened if they didn't align with the theme.
Isha stood in the center of it all-one hand on her waist, the other holding a half-crumpled to-do list, her eyes scanning everyone like a general ready for battle.
"Dhruv bhiyuu!" she called, not even looking back.
"Ji huzoor?" Dhruv appeared like a soldier summoned.
"Did you check the projector? The video surprise has to start the moment they enter. Not a second late."
"Yes, ma'am. Done and dusted."
"Ritvik bhaiya?"
"Yours truly," he popped up beside her, eating grapes.
"Did the catering team confirm Maa sa's besan ke laddoo are ready? And the guava juice for Bapu sa?"
"Madam, I called them more than I call my exes."
"I don't care about your exes! Focus!"
"See? This is why I left them for you."
She glared.
He put his hands up. "Okay, okay! Laddoos are ready. Juice is cold. All is well."
Then ritvik went to handle something and ranveer take place.
As the trio walked around giving last-minute instructions, Shivansh stood a little distance away. Not too close. Not too far. Just enough that he could see her... and maybe she'd see him.
But she didn't.
Her focus was still everywhere but on him.
He wanted to help. He wanted to talk. Apologize. Maybe hold her hand and say something stupid just so she'd smile at him again. But the gulf her silence created was wide-and he didn't know how to cross it.
Just then, Choti Maa sa entered the living room, carrying a tray with fresh juice, snacks, and biscuits.
"Aree, bacchon! Eat something," she called out sweetly. "Isha beta, you've been running around like a machine. Drink juice. At least a bite of something!"
But Isha was too deep into giving Prisha instructions on the lighting. She didn't even hear her.
Choti Maa sa turned to Dhruv and Ranveer. "You tell her, she won't listen to me."
Dhruv took the tray from her with a small smile. "We'll handle it, Maa sa. Don't worry."
As she walked away, Dhruv's eyes instinctively went to Shivansh-standing quietly, stealing glances at Isha from across the room. His hands were stuffed into his pockets. His lips pressed tightly, clearly fighting the urge to go to her.
Shruc enjoy that like he was mocking him now shout at her.
Shivansh's chest tightened.
Not just because he knew everyone wanted to take care of her.
But also because he wanted to do the same.
That jealousy? It crept up like an old habit. But Isha's pale face, her constant rushing, and the fact that she hadn't even had water since morning?
Her health came first.
Jealousy could wait.
He sign dhruv and ranveer to make her eat the snacks and made her drink the juice.
And they noticed, dhruv elbowed Ranveer. "Oye."
"What?"
"Snack mission. Agent Isha. We have to make her eat."
Ranveer grinned. "You distract her. I feed her."
"No no no. You distract her. I feed her. Or you'll drop juice on her outfit."
"Bro, you're the clumsy one."
"I'm also the caring one."
"Oh please. I was the one who gave her chocolate during her period cramps."
"She doesn't even like chocolate during cramps!"
"She liked mine."
They stared.
Then sighed.
"Fine. Let's just do it before someone else tries."
The two of them marched up to her, Dhruv clearing his throat theatrically. "Madam! Emergency."
"What now?" she sighed.
Ranveer pointed at the tray in Dhruv's hand. "This. You haven't eaten anything. Juice. Now."
"I'll eat later-"
"No. Now," Dhruv interrupted firmly. "Or I'll go full dramatic and faint on this marble floor in protest."
She blinked at him.
"I'm serious," he added. "Don't make me fake illness. I've done it before."
"And I'll help him," Ranveer said with puppy eyes. "Come on, yaar. One bite. Just juice. Half a biscuit."
Isha tried to resist. "Guys, seriously, I have to-"
"No," Dhruv said, placing the tray on the nearby console, pouring the juice into a glass, and holding it out. "This. Now. Three seconds or I'll call Maa sa."
She narrowed her eyes. "You're blackmailing me."
"With love," he grinned.
Ranveer held out a samosa. "Your highness, shubh aarambh."
Reluctantly, with an annoyed glare and muttering under her breath, she took a bite.
They both cheered dramatically.
"I want this recorded," Dhruv said.
"Proof that she listened to us once in her life," Ranveer added.
As they sat together on the carpeted floor near the coffee table, Isha finally let out a deep sigh. Her shoulders loosened. She drank half the glass of juice and leaned her head back on the sofa for a second.
"Better?" Dhruv asked.
"Don't get used to it," she mumbled.
They grinned.
Ranveer took a bite of his own samosa and said, "By the way, you know the chef made an extra batch of laddoos because last time you snuck three when no one was watching?"
"I did not!" she glared.
Dhruv joined in. "You did. You had one in your hand, one in your mouth, and one hidden in your dupatta."
"That was for Prisha!"
"That's what they all say."
"I hate you both."
They laughed.
Shivansh watched from afar, still quiet, still guilty-but with a soft smile tugging at his lips.
Because she was laughing.
Because she was eating.
Because... someone made her do both.
And even if it wasn't him right now-he was grateful someone did.
The palace was filled with soft echoes-of clinking trays, quiet footsteps, and murmurs of last-minute instructions. Sunlight streamed through the grand windows, casting golden warmth over polished marble floors. Isha stood near the main hall, arms folded, her brows furrowed in deep concentration as she checked yet another list on her clipboard.
The decorations were nearly done, the arrangements had begun to fall into place, and she had just asked the staff to bring in the final floral pieces.
The chaos had finally settled.
After hours of fixing flower arrangements, managing guest lists, adjusting seating charts, giving instructions to the decorators, and turning into a full-time manager in a palace-Isha had finally done it all.
And now, she was tired.
The palace was glowing, ready for the upcoming function. Everything was nearly perfect. The sun was beginning to dip, casting golden light across the marble, and the air smelled faintly of mogra and sandalwood.
Isha finally slumped onto the large couch in the inner courtyard lounge, her limbs screaming for rest. The cushions welcomed her like an old friend. Her friends followed right after her, all plopping down like a group of exhausted kids who'd just completed their school project in one night.
Ritvik took off his shoes dramatically and flung them aside. "If anyone tells me to move even one inch from this spot, I will cry."
Ishika leaned her head on Isha's shoulder. "You're a tyrant, you know that? My back is broken."
"I feel like I just ran a marathon," Aarav said, still catching his breath.
Arjun grinned as he handed a chilled glass of lemonade to Isha. "But it was worth it. Everything looks amazing. You killed it."
Isha smiled softly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Thanks, yaar. But seriously-I couldn't have done it without you guys. Mujhse akela nahi hota."
( I can't do this alone.)
"Aww," said prisha, dramatically clutching her heart. "Emotional Isha alert."
Just then, Choti Maa sa appeared with a wide smile, holding a large tray of snacks.
"Tum sabko bhook lagi hogi. Yeh lo, garma garam samose, kachori, aur thanda juice"
( you all must be hungry. Here, hot samosas, kachoris, and cold juice. )
They all sat up instantly.
"Choti Maa sa, aap best ho!" Ishika squealed.
Choti Maa sa chuckled. "Main jaanti hoon kaun kaun kaise kaam kar raha tha, and trust me-sab deserve karte hain ye break. Especially Isha."
(I know who was working and what, and trust me-everyone deserves this break. Especially Isha..)
She gently kept the plate in front of Isha, and her eyes softened. "Tum aaj poori rani lag rahi hai. Par rani bhi kabhi kabhi thoda aaram kar leti hai."
(You look like a queen today. But even queens take some rest sometimes.)
Isha blushed. "Thoda rest toh banta hai."
(I should take some rest.)
Everyone dug into the food with pure happiness. Crunchy bites, soft laughter, teasing words-it was finally that moment where everything felt calm and warm.
"So now that we're free for like ten minutes," ritvik said, wiping his mouth, "are we going to talk about how Shivansh was roaming around like a rejected lover the whole day?"
Isha stiffened. "bhaiya."
"Oh come on," Aarav joined in. "He literally passed by us five times, pretending he was 'checking the setup'. Man's desperate."
"And you," Ishika added, nudging Isha, "were giving him death glares like he borrowed money and never returned it."
Isha just stuffed a samosa in her mouth. "I don't want to talk about him."
"Still mad?" Arjun asked gently.
"I'm still breathing, aren't I?" Isha snapped, then added, "Anyway, he deserves it. Don't even start defending him."
They all exchanged looks but let it go.
In another part of the palace, Shivansh stood in his study, hands on his hips, pacing like a man with a mission. His hair was slightly tousled, frustration clearly visible on his face.
She hadn't spoken to him properly.
Not once.
Only sharp glares, colder replies, and that one dramatic scolding in front of Choti Maa sa which still echoed in his head. She was angry-and this time, not the playful kind. Real anger. Dangerous anger.
He sighed and looked around.
Aviyansh was lounging on the couch, scrolling his phone, while Dhruv leaned against the window sill munching on dry fruits.
"You both are useless," Shivansh muttered.
"Excuse me?" Aviyansh looked up, confused. "What did we do?"
"You were supposed to help me. Get her to talk to me."
"She threatened to throw a chappal at me if I even mentioned your name," Dhruv said casually.
"And she actually threw a pen at me!" Ab
Viyansh added. "Bhai sa, I love you, but I love my eyes more."
Shivansh sighed dramatically, rubbing his temple. "Fine. Let's negotiate."
Aviyansh raised an eyebrow. "Now you're speaking my language."
"I'll give you the car you wanted. The supercar."
Aviyansh sat up like someone had won the lottery. "Wait... are you serious?"
Shivansh gave a deadpan look. "Do I look like I'm joking?"
"Bhai. Done. SOLD. I'll get her to your room. I'll do a backflip if needed."
Dhruv laughed. "Waah. Ek car mein becha diya bhai ko."
(Wow. He sold himself just for a car.)
Shivansh turned to him. "And you? You wanted to drive that convertible from Jaipur showroom? It's yours. For the weekend."
Dhruv raised both brows. "shiv that's emotional blackmail."
"Take it or leave it."
Dhruv smirked. "Taking it. But I want no scratches on the car when you cry on it after she yells at you again."
Shivansh rolled his eyes. "She won't yell. Once she's inside the room, I'll handle her."
"Bhabhi toh abhi 'Don' ban chuki hai," Aviyansh chuckled.
( Bhabhi has already become a 'Don',)
"Just do it," Shivansh said, walking out. "Make her come with you two. Tell her something casual. Once she's near the corridor, push her inside my room. That's it. I'll manage from there."
Aviyansh looked at Dhruv, then back at the door Shivansh had exited through.
He grinned.
"This is going to be fun."
Dhruv cracked his knuckles. "Let's go bring the bride to the lion's den."
They high-fived.
And the mission began.
The palace buzzed faintly in the background, with workers finishing the last-minute touches, lights being tested, and fragrances filling the air. Guests were expected soon, and the soft hum of excitement danced in the corridors.
Isha stretched her arms as she walked toward the guest wing, her shoulders aching but her heart calm for once. The work was done, and her friends were finally resting. It was time to freshen up, maybe wear something light before the evening events began.
Her room-peace-was just down the hallway.
She turned the corner when suddenly, two shadows popped up beside her-Aviyansh on the left, Dhruv on the right.
"Arre arre! Dekho toh kaun aa rahi hai! Our star of the day!" Aviyansh grinned.
(Hey hey! Look who's coming! Our star of the day!)
"Queen Isha herself," Dhruv added with a mock bow.
Isha giggled lightly. "Oh please. Stop flattering me. But really-thank you both. Without you two today, I might have gone insane."
"Insane?" Aviyansh said dramatically. "We made it look like an army operation. Mission Roka: accomplished."
Isha chuckled, walking with them. "It was like an operation. Especially when the decorator dropped the wrong board-oh god, remember that?"
"Don't remind me," Dhruv said, shivering. "I thought you'd kill him."
"I was this close," she held up her fingers. "Anyway, I'm going to change and just lie down for five minutes. After that, I'll help Maasa with the welcome arrangements."
Aviyansh looped an arm casually over her shoulder. "Haan haan. Of course. But ek minute... don't you want to come upstairs for a second?"
Isha narrowed her eyes. "Upstairs? Why?"
"Kuch nahi. We just wanted to show you the new portraits Dadi sa had made for the Jaipur palace wall. She was asking about your opinion," Dhruv lied smoothly, walking faster to stay ahead of her.
"Really?" Isha blinked. "But... I'll look later, na? Let me freshen-"
"Bas ek minute lagega," Aviyansh interrupted. "Promise. Aate hi waapas. Cross our royal hearts."
( Promise. Back soon. Cross our royal hearts.)
Isha hesitated. But they looked so sincere. She sighed. "Fine. Only one minute."
They kept talking, distracting her with jokes and casual stories about guests who might arrive, their "secret code" for escaping boring relatives, and even about the samosas Choti Maa sa made earlier.
Before Isha even realized it, they had climbed one floor.
Then another.
And then... she stopped.
"Wait," she frowned, "this isn't the guest wing. Why are we on the ansh floor?"
Dhruv and Aviyansh suddenly looked at each other and smirked.
"NOW!" Abhiyansh yelled.
Before Isha could react, both grabbed her arms, rushed her forward two steps and-SHOVE!
She stumbled inside a grand room, catching her balance just in time, when she realized-
It was Shivansh's chamber.
The heavy door slammed shut behind her.
"WHAT THE-!" she banged the door. "OPEN THIS DOOR RIGHT NOW!"
From the other side, Abhiyansh's voice echoed, cheerful as ever, "Nope. Sorry, Bhabhi. This is Operation Patch-Up. Enjoy!"
Dhruv added, "You two need to sort things out. No running this time!"
Isha pounded on the door. "I SWEAR TO GOD! Abiyansh! Bhaiyuu! This is not funny! Open it!"
"Not until you both stop acting like enemies!" Aviyansh said firmly.
"I am NOT talking to him!" Isha yelled. "You are dead, both of you! I'll make sure Maa sa puts you on guest cleanup duty forever!"
Dhruv snickered, "Do your worst. Right now, we are Team ShivIsha! We only serve romance."
Isha growled in frustration, trying to pull the handle.
"No use," Aviyansh called. "Locked from the outside. And we're not opening it until bhai sa gives us the all-clear."
"I swear I will make you regret this. I'll delete your Instagram reels, all of them!"
There was a gasp.
"You wouldn't," Aviyansh whispered.
"Try me," she hissed.
They both laughed.
"Handle him, Bachhe!" Dhruv called with a grin. "He's been sulking like a kicked puppy all day. We did our part. Rest is on you."
"You betrayed me!" Isha shouted, fuming. "I THOUGHT YOU WERE IN MY TEAM!"
"And now," ABiyansh said dramatically, "we are his gang. Royal duties, you know."
"TRAITORS! I will write your names in my black diary!"
"Write it with glitter," Dhruv added cheekily. "Bye-bye!"
Then silence.
Isha's heartbeat raced. She took a step back from the door, chest heaving.
The room was silent but thick with tension-the kind of silence that wasn't truly quiet. It buzzed with unsaid words, muffled emotions, and the echo of footsteps that had just fled down the corridor.
Isha stood facing the closed door, fists clenched at her sides, heart pounding against her chest like a war drum. Her hair fell in soft waves over her back, slightly tousled from the sudden struggle. Her lips parted in anger, disbelief still clouding her thoughts.
And then, the air shifted.
Behind her, the faintest creak.
A movement.
A presence.
The sound of water dripping onto polished marble.
She froze.
And then...
From behind her, the low click of a lock.
He was there.
She turned slowly, eyes blazing.
And there he stood.
Shivansh.
Waiting.
Slowly, as if afraid of what she'd see, she turned around.
There, in the soft haze of the room's amber lights, stood Shivansh.
His tall frame leaned casually against the wall near the living area, arms crossed over his chest, droplets of water trailing down the sculpted lines of his collarbone, gliding across the ridges of his torso like a path marked by fire and time. His hair was wet, strands falling slightly over his forehead, dark and wild, giving him a disheveled, reckless kind of beauty.
A white towel hung low on his hips, clinging just barely, and another smaller towel rested across his shoulders, which he used to carelessly pat the water off his neck.
He hadn't even dressed.
He hadn't even bothered.
He had heard her.
He came out the moment he recognized her voice.
And now he stood there-not regal, not cold, not untouchable.
Just raw. Bare. Real.
His gaze locked onto her like a predator on instinct. His lips curved into something between a smirk and a question-intense and unreadable.
Then his voice cut through the stillness-deep, slightly raspy from the steam of the shower and his unspoken thoughts.
"Ab kahaan jaaogi, bahaana karke?"
It wasn't a question.
It was a statement.
A dare.
Isha blinked.
Her throat dried.
He had seen through her.
Again.
He always did.
Shivansh stepped forward slightly, the soft thud of his bare feet on marble echoing through the silence. His hand ran through his hair, pushing the wet locks back with effortless grace, water droplets falling to the floor like beads of tension between them.
His eyes never left her.
Neither mocking nor angry.
Just deep. Unreadable. Drenched with something heavy-maybe pain, maybe longing, maybe... all of it.
" Ab bhaag kar kaha jaogi, jaana," he said quietly, voice a low thunder. "Par ab toh kamre mein ho. Mere saamne."
(Now where are you going to run, Jaana,)
(But now you are in the room. In front of me.)
She took a step back.
He didn't move.
She looked at the door.
Still locked.
He tilted his head.
"Dar lag raha hai? Mujhse? Ya khud se?" he asked, his voice lower now, as if the walls had leaned in to listen.
( Are you scared? Of me? Or of yourself?)
Isha's chest rose and fell sharply. Her lips trembled, but she said nothing.
Because what was there to say?
She hadn't expected him like this-bare, real, standing in the afterglow of a storm he'd made no effort to clean up.
And yet, even then...
He looked like he had nothing left to hide.
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