The call connected, and her screen lit up with his face - Satish, sitting on his couch in a dark maroon T-shirt, hair tousled, that lazy smile tugging at his lips. The way his eyes softened when they met hers still made her stomach flip.
"Hi," she said softly, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
"Hi?" he repeated with mock offense, leaning closer to the camera. "That's all I get after waiting for you for twenty minutes?"
She rolled her eyes, smiling despite herself. "You're dramatic, Sir."
He raised an eyebrow. "Oh, we're back to 'Sir' now?"
"Of course. Because when you start with your-" she waved her hand vaguely, "-plans, I know you're up to no good."
Satish chuckled, low and warm. "Actually," he said, stretching his arm along the couch, "I called to discuss something serious."
Her eyes narrowed. "Serious?"
He nodded, his expression deliberately solemn. "A two-day trip."
Sharayu blinked. "Excuse me?"
He smiled wider. "You, me. Somewhere peaceful. Just us. Away from this chaos."
"Absolutely not."
"Why not?"
"Because I know you very well, Satish," she said, crossing her arms and leaning closer to the camera. "And I definitely know your intentions. I'm not going anywhere with you."
Satish's lips curved into that slow, dangerous smirk that always melted her defenses. "Intentions?" he repeated, feigning innocence. "What could you possibly mean, Miss Sharayu?"
"You know what I mean," she said, glaring.
He sighed dramatically, then leaned back, looking straight into the camera with that unreasonably charming expression. "Alright then," he murmured, eyes glinting mischievously, "if words won't convince you..."
He cleared his throat softly - and before she could guess what he was doing, his deep voice filled the call.
"Zid pe agar main aaun,
toh pal mein tujhko
abhi utha le jaun..."
Her eyes widened. "Satish-"
He continued, his voice dropping lower, richer, sending shivers down her spine.
"Yeh samajh le gori meri hai tu,
tujhe pyaar se samjhaun..."
Her heart stopped.
He ended the line with a grin so shameless, so utterly confident, that she had to cover her mouth to hide her flustered laughter.
"Are you-are you serenading me right now?!" she half-laughed, half-yelled, cheeks burning.
He tilted his head. "If it gets you to come with me, maybe."
She tried to look angry, but failed miserably. "You're impossible."
"And you," he said softly, "are predictable."
"How?"
"Because," he said, watching her reaction carefully, "you're already thinking about it."
Sharayu scoffed. "I am not-"
But then her brain clicked. Her eyes widened.
"Wait," she gasped suddenly, sitting up straighter. "OH MY GOD. THIS IS PERFECT!"
Satish blinked, thrown off. "What?"
"I'll call the others!" she exclaimed, already fumbling for her phone. "It'll be so fun! Me, you, Rutuja, Arohi, Gayatri, Hriday, Vrushal, and Kunal! We all need a break, right?"
Satish felt a headache forming.
What part of "just us" did she NOT understand?!
His jaw clenched. "Sharayu. This was supposed to be a trip for-"
She giggled. "I know! And it'll be even more fun with them. I mean, think about it-just the two of us? We'd get bored!"
Bored.
Satish blinked.
His brain malfunctioned.
She thought she'd get BORED with just him?!
The audacity.
The actual disrespect.
"You did not just say that," he muttered darkly.
She laughed. "Oh, come on! You'll have fun too!"
Satish pinched the bridge of his nose. "Sharayu. I planned this trip for-"
"Oh! Hriday is calling. I'll add him!"
BEEP.
Satish stared at his phone.
She hung up.
She actually hung up.
His hand curled into a fist. He took a deep breath. Counted to five.
And then muttered, "I swear to God, her friends are my biggest enemies."
***
Ten Minutes Later
His phone buzzed.
Hriday: BROOOO TRIPPPPP!!!
Kunal: Damn, Satish Sir, you actually planned this?! Respect!
Arohi: Omg this is going to be so fun!
Vrushal: I hope there's a pool.
Gayatri: We need matching outfits!
Rutuja: Sharayu, tell him we're taking over the music playlist!
Sharayu: Yay!! Satish, you're the best!
Satish stared.
This was supposed to be HIS trip.
His and Sharayu's.
And now?
It was a circus.
With unwanted guests.
Satish groaned and flopped back onto his bed, mentally screaming.
Satish had never been so betrayed in his life.
This wasn't how it was supposed to go.
It was supposed to be a romantic getaway.
Just him and Sharayu.
Alone.
But...
"Aai, Baba," Sharayu smiled sweetly, sitting at the dinner table. "I was thinking... my friends and I need a break. We've been so stressed with college and the annual function. Can I go on a small trip with them?"
Her father raised an eyebrow. "Just your friends?"
She nodded, keeping her face as innocent as possible. No mention of Satish.
Her mother sighed. "Is it safe? Where are you going?"
"Oh! We have everything planned and-"
Her father looked at her suspiciously. "Wait. Which 'friends' exactly?"
Sharayu internally panicked. If she took too long to answer, they'd suspect something.
So she blurted out, "Rutuja, Arohi, Gayatri, Hriday, Kunal, and Vrushal!"
No hesitation. Smooth. Perfect lie.
Her mother nodded. "Fine, but stay in touch, okay?"
Sharayu grinned. "Of course!"
Mission *Convince Parents* - SUCCESS.
Mission *Not Mention Satish* - DOUBLE SUCCESS.
***
The plan officially collapsed when Satish pulled up in his car outside Sharayu's house, expecting her to hop in, looking all cute and ready for their private trip.
But instead...
The ENTIRE group stood there with their bags, waving like excited children.
Satish stared.
His dreams shattered.
His peace destroyed.
His patience evaporated.
And before he could even say a word, Hriday jumped into the front seat like he owned it.
"Bro! This is gonna be EPIC!" Hriday grinned, adjusting the seat.
Satish's eye twitched. "Get out of her seat."
"Nah, I called shotgun."
Satish took a deep breath. Calm. He needed to stay calm.
He looked at Sharayu, his traitorous girlfriend, who was smiling sweetly as she climbed into the back with the rest of her friends.
"Why?" he whispered, staring at her.
She blinked innocently. "Why what?"
"WHY DID YOU BRING THEM?!"
Sharayu giggled and patted his arm. "Because it'll be fun!"
Fun.
FUN.
Satish had never regretted a decision more.
***
One Hour Into the Drive
Satish was suffering.
His car was no longer his.
It had turned into a moving concert, with everyone singing loudly and off-key.
And the worst part?
Sharayu was enjoying it.
She was singing, laughing, and having the time of her life.
Meanwhile, he was gripping the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles turned white.
"TUM PAAS AAYE... YUUUN MUSKURAYEEEE!!" Kunal sang dramatically, throwing his hands in the air.
"KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI!!" Rutuja and Arohi screamed together.
Vrushal was literally using a water bottle as a mic.
Hriday was banging on the car's dashboard like a drum.
And Gayatri? Recording everything for memories.
Satish glanced at Sharayu through the rearview mirror.
She was laughing, her face glowing with joy.
And just like that... his frustration melted a little.
Damn her.
Damn her for being so beautiful.
Damn her for making him weak.
But still-
He wanted to spend time with her *alone!*
So he suddenly slammed the brakes.
Everyone screamed.
"WHAT THE HELL?!" Hriday yelped.
"Satish Sir, ARE YOU CRAZY?!" Arohi clutched her heart.
Satish turned around slowly.
His gaze locked on Sharayu.
"Switch seats with Hriday," he ordered.
Sharayu blinked. "Huh? Why?"
"Because if I have to deal with this madness, at least let me have you next to me."
There was silence.
Then-
"Oooooooooooohhhhhhhh!" everyone chorused.
Sharayu blushed. "Satish!"
Hriday rolled his eyes, grumbling, "Fine, fine."
As Hriday switched to the back, Satish smirked in victory as Sharayu sat next to him.
Much better.
Finally.
Maybe this road trip wasn't a complete disaster.
Until-
The next song started, louder than ever.
Satish sighed.
He should've taken a solo trip instead.
***
The drive was long, filled with loud music, off-key singing, and Satish's silent suffering.
But finally-finally-they reached their destination.
And the moment everyone stepped out of the car...
They. Were. Stunned.
A breathtaking farmhouse stood before them, tucked away in lush greenery, with a massive swimming pool shimmering under the late afternoon sun. The air smelled of fresh earth and a hint of pine, making it feel like an entirely different world away from the chaos of the city.
"WHAT THE HELL?!" Kunal was the first to break the silence.
"Dude... we are staying here? THIS PLACE LOOKS LIKE A MOVIE SET!" Vrushal's mouth hung open.
"Oh my God, just LOOK AT THIS!" Rutuja twirled around dramatically.
"This pool is so big, we could drown Hriday in it and nobody would find him," Arohi said with an evil grin.
"Excuse me?!" Hriday glared at her.
Gayatri, meanwhile, was busy recording everything, documenting their reactions.
But Sharayu?
She was too mesmerized to say anything.
The farmhouse was perfect.
Peaceful. Surrounded by nature. The kind of place she had always dreamed of living in.
"This place is beautiful," she whispered, taking slow steps toward the house, her eyes filled with admiration. "Whoever owns this... they're so lucky."
She sighed, looking around. "I would love to live in a house like this in the future. Away from the city, peaceful, quiet... It's just perfect."
The moment those words left her mouth...
A deep, familiar voice whispered from behind her.
"Then start getting used to it, love... because it's going to be yours once we marry each other."
Silence.
Utter silence.
Sharayu froze mid-step.
Her breath hitched.
Her eyes widened.
Her entire body stiffened like she had been electrocuted.
WHAT?!
Her brain short-circuited.
Did Satish just say that?!
DID HE JUST-?!
She slowly turned around, and there he was - Satish Singh Rajvanshi, standing there, smirking like he had just delivered the most legendary line in history.
Her friends?
Oh, they went WILD.
"OH. MY. GOD." Arohi screamed, shaking Rutuja's arm like a maniac.
"DID HE JUST-?!" Vrushal gasped.
"KILL ME! I CAN'T BELIEVE I WITNESSED THIS!" Rutuja fanned herself dramatically.
"Bro, THAT WAS STRAIGHT OUT OF A ROMANCE MOVIE!" Kunal clutched his chest.
Gayatri was already recording. "This is going viral among us."
Hriday, however, stood there completely speechless.
Sharayu was still frozen, processing his words.
Her heart? Beating at 500 miles per hour.
Her face? Redder than a tomato.
Her mind? Screaming in every possible language.
Meanwhile, Satish was calm as ever, watching her with amusement.
"What?" he asked, tilting his head. "Didn't you just say you want to live in a house like this?"
Sharayu opened her mouth. Nothing came out.
He smirked. "So I'm giving you an offer. It'll be yours... if you marry me."
"YOU CAN'T JUST-" she finally found her voice, her face burning. "YOU CAN'T JUST SAY THINGS LIKE THAT!"
"Why not?" he shrugged. "It's the truth."
"SATISH."
"Yes, my future wife?"
"OH MY GOD."
And just like that, her friends lost their minds.
"KISS! KISS! KISS!" Rutuja started chanting.
"KUNAL, RECORD THIS!" Arohi yelled.
"ALREADY ON IT," Kunal held up his phone.
"I HATE ALL OF YOU!" Sharayu covered her face in embarrassment.
Satish, on the other hand, was having the time of his life.
"Well," he said, stepping closer so only she could hear, "we can always continue this conversation later. In private."
She looked at him, still flustered, still speechless.
And just before she could come up with a response-
"ANYWAY," Satish suddenly turned to the group. "Shall we go inside?"
And just like that, he walked ahead, cool and composed, like he hadn't just ruined Sharayu's entire existence.
Meanwhile, Sharayu?
Still standing there.
Still processing.
And knowing very well that this was only the beginning.
The group stormed inside the farmhouse, still buzzing from Satish's unexpected "proposal stunt" outside.
Sharayu was still in a daze, walking as if she had lost control of her legs. Her mind replayed the moment over and over.
"It'll be yours... if you marry me."
WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!
Her heart refused to calm down, and the fact that her friends were giving her smug looks didn't help at all.
As soon as they stepped into the luxurious living room-
BAM!
A cushion came flying straight at Satish's head.
"WHAT THE-" He caught it just in time, only to see Arohi and Rutuja glaring at him.
"MR. SATISH SINGH RAJVANSHI," Arohi crossed her arms. "What was THAT outside?"
"What?" he blinked, playing innocent.
"DON'T 'WHAT' US!" Rutuja pointed a dramatic finger at him. "You just dropped a marriage proposal out of nowhere, in front of all of us! Do you know how romantic that was?! DO YOU KNOW HOW SINGLE WE ALL FELT IN THAT MOMENT?!"
"Seriously, Satish Sir," Kunal shook his head. "Could you warn us before you say things like that? My heart almost gave out."
Satish smirked, looking completely unbothered. "I don't see why you're all so worked up. It was just a simple statement."
"SIMPLE STATEMENT?!" Rutuja's eyes widened. "Bro, you basically said you're gonna marry her!"
"Technically, I said *if* we get married-"
"OH, PLEASE," Gayatri rolled her eyes. "You said it with FULL CONFIDENCE. Don't even try to act clueless now."
Meanwhile, Sharayu had enough.
"OKAY, ENOUGH." She clapped her hands together, her face still burning. "Let's STOP talking about this and just... settle down, okay?"
Satish, being the gracious host (and secret devil), decided to give them a tour of the farmhouse.
"Make yourselves at home," he said, leading them through the massive living room, kitchen, gaming area, and finally, the bedrooms.
That's when the real problem started.
"SOOOO," Vrushal grinned, eyeing the rooms. "Who's sharing with whom?"
Silence.
Satish and Sharayu froze.
Before either of them could say anything-
"Oh, obviously, we're gonna divide the rooms fairly," Rutuja smirked, her eyes locking onto Sharayu and Satish.
And then, with a dramatic sigh, she said:
"Which means... our dear Sharayu and dear Satish Sir should take the master bedroom. Together."
"WHAT THE HELL?!" Sharayu almost choked.
"Ohhh, excellent idea," Arohi nodded way too seriously.
"Very fair division," Rutuja agreed, struggling not to laugh.
Kunal pretended to think deeply. "Hmm. Yes, yes. I think that's best. They are the most... mature, after all."
"Of course," Vrushal added. "And I heard sharing rooms builds trust."
"GUYS!" Sharayu shrieked, her face now burning like lava.
Meanwhile, Satish just stood there, smirking.
Enjoying. Every. Damn. Second. Of. This.
"Calm down, Sharayu," he said way too casually. "It's just a room. We're both adults, aren't we?"
She turned to glare at him.
Oh, he was enjoying this way too much.
She took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. "I. Am. Not. Sharing. A room. With him."
"Why not?" Kunal smirked. "Scared something might happen?"
Sharayu gasped. "YOU-"
"Alright, alright, enough," Satish finally stepped in, deciding to put her out of her misery.
He turned to the group, his voice smooth and dangerously teasing.
"Much as I'd love to see where this goes..." He shot a glance at Sharayu, who looked ready to kill someone. "I think we should let Sharayu choose where she wants to sleep."
Sharayu exhaled in relief.
"But," Satish added, his smirk widening, "if she wants to sleep in the master bedroom with me, I won't stop her."
That was it.
Sharayu grabbed the nearest cushion and threw it straight at his face.
The group erupted into laughter.
Kunal high-fived Rutuja.
Gayatri had already recorded the entire thing.
Arohi and Rutuja were dying from second-hand embarrassment.
And Satish?
He dodged the cushion with a chuckle and walked away like the smug devil he was.
The night had barely begun, and chaos was already ruling the farmhouse.
"Okay, listen up, people!" Hriday clapped his hands dramatically. "We have two days to create unforgettable memories, so let's decide-what are we doing first?"
"POOL!" Kunal declared. "We have a freaking pool right outside, and we're NOT using it? Disrespectful."
Rutuja nodded. "Agreed. We can't let this beauty go to waste."
"Plus, it's night," Arohi grinned. "Which means-night swimming!"
Sharayu froze.
Swimming.
At night.
With Satish around.
Her traitorous brain instantly imagined him wet, water dripping down his strong arms, hair slicked back-
NOPE. SHUT IT DOWN. RIGHT NOW.
She quickly shook her head. "Uhh, I think I'll pass on this one-"
"Ohhh, NO YOU WON'T," Rutuja smirked.
"You're coming," Gayatri added.
It took less than fifteen minutes for everyone to change into swimwear and rush to the poolside.
Except for Sharayu, who was still locked inside her room.
Because NO WAY IN HELL was she walking out there half-dressed while Satish was around.
Just as she was debating whether to fake a stomachache-
Knock. Knock.
She froze.
"Sharayu."
It was him.
Her heart betrayed her immediately by doing a somersault.
"Y-Yes?" she called out.
"Are you planning to stay inside all night?"
"Maybe."
A pause.
Then-
"I see," Satish said slowly, his voice deep and knowing.
"Guess I'll just have to come in and get you myself."
Her soul left her body.
"NO!" She lunged at the door, locking it in a panic.
A low chuckle.
"Are you scared of me, Sharayu?"
Oh, this man.
"I AM NOT!" she huffed.
"Then prove it."
...
Damn it.
With a deep breath, she finally opened the door-
Only to REGRET EVERYTHING IMMEDIATELY.
Satish was standing there in nothing but swim trunks, water bottle in hand, arms crossed over his chest.
And.
He.
Looked.
Unfairly illegal.
Her brain short-circuited.
"You're staring," he murmured, smirking.
"I-" She looked away, horrified. "I WAS NOT!"
"Mm-hmm."
Oh, he was enjoying this.
"Let's go," he said, stepping back. "Everyone's waiting."
As soon as they reached the pool, a war had already broken out.
Arohi and Hriday were having an intense water fight.
Rutuja was sitting on Kunal's shoulders, trying to drown Vrushal, who had apparently stolen her towel.
Gayatri, meanwhile, was floating peacefully on a giant unicorn float, completely unbothered.
"SHARAYU!" Hriday yelled, waving. "Come in!"
"I'm good!" she called back.
"Oh no, you're not," Satish suddenly spoke from beside her.
Before she could even process what was happening, Satish had already swept her off her feet - literally.
"Satish! No-don't you dare-!" she squealed, hitting his chest in panic.
But his grin was wicked. Dangerous. The kind that promised trouble.
"Too late, love," he whispered - and then, before she could wriggle free, he jumped.
SPLASH.
The cool water exploded around them, laughter and shouts echoing from the crowd nearby.
When Sharayu resurfaced, gasping, her hair clinging to her face and her dress heavy with water, she spun toward him, eyes blazing.
"You-" she sputtered, pointing at him furiously. "This is so not fair!"
Satish only smirked, slicking his wet hair back as the water gleamed against his skin. His gaze locked on her - intense, burning, utterly unbothered.
He swam closer, invading her space, his voice dropping to that deep, teasing murmur that always melted her defenses.
"Nothing," he said, his eyes flickering to her lips, "is ever fair when it comes to what I want to do with you."
Sharayu froze, her heart pounding so loud it drowned out every splash, every laugh echoing from the poolside.
Her fingers tightened around the edge of the pool as Satish's words sank in - his tone, his nearness, that unmistakable fire in his eyes.
"W-what did you just say?" she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.
Satish smirked, the corner of his mouth curving up in that maddeningly confident way. He moved closer, water rippling around them as his chest brushed against hers - just enough to make her breath hitch.
"You heard me," he said softly, his gaze fixed on her lips. "I don't play fair with you, Sharayu... I never could."
She tried to look away, but he caught her chin between his fingers, tilting her face back toward him. The droplets of water on his lashes caught the light, making his blue eyes look impossibly deeper, almost sinful.
Her breath came out in uneven bursts. "You're impossible," she whispered, trying to sound angry - but it came out too soft, too breathless.
After what felt like an eternity of getting splashed, dunked, and bullied, Sharayu finally dragged herself out of the pool, completely exhausted.
Satish followed her soon after, running a hand through his wet hair.
She noticed something immediately.
His shirt was still wet and clinging to him like second skin.
...Great. Just great.
"What's with that look?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh, nothing," she said too sweetly.
Then, before he could react, she grabbed a towel and threw it over his head.
Tightly.
So tightly that he almost stumbled back.
"Sharayu!" he growled.
"Oops," she grinned. "My bad."
By the time Satish managed to get the towel off his head, she was already running back inside.
He was going to make her pay for that.
Very, very soon.
***
The night had settled in, casting a soft glow over the farmhouse. After a chaotic day filled with laughter, teasing, and unexpected moments, everyone finally retreated to their respective rooms.
Except for Sharayu and Satish.
Who were now alone.
In the same room.
The realization hit Sharayu first.
She stood by the large window, staring at the moonlit pool outside, her fingers gripping the edge of the window
Behind her, Satish leaned against the wardrobe, watching her.
The silence stretched.
Neither of them spoke, but the air crackled with tension.
Sharayu finally turned, clearing her throat.
Act normal, act normal.
"So... uh, this room only has one bed."
Satish lifted a brow. "Observant, aren't you?"
She narrowed her eyes. "Don't act like you didn't plan this."
He smirked. "Oh? You think I deliberately orchestrated this so you'd have no choice but to sleep next to me?"
Sharayu crossed her arms. "Yes."
Satish chuckled. "You think I'm that desperate, sweetheart?"
Sharayu's breath hitched at the way his voice dropped on the last word. He did it on purpose - she knew it.
"Don't call me that," she muttered, looking away.
"Why not?" He took a slow step forward. "You like it."
Her grip on the jacket tightened. "No, I don't."
Satish stopped right in front of her, tilting his head. "Liar."
The way he was looking at her - intense, teasing, knowing - made her throat go dry. The air between them felt dangerous.
"I'll sleep on the couch," he finally said, stepping back.
Sharayu blinked, caught off guard by his sudden retreat. "Wait... what?"
"You can take the bed." He moved toward the couch in the corner of the room, grabbing a spare pillow. "I'm not a monster, Sharayu."
She frowned, shifting on her feet. "I never said you were."
Satish sat on the couch, stretching his arms behind his head. "Then why do you look so... disappointed?"
Sharayu's eyes widened. "Excuse me?!"
His smug smirk returned. "I mean, you were glaring at the bed, then at me, then back at the bed - almost like you were thinking of something else."
Her face burned. "I was doing no such thing!"
Satish hummed in amusement. "If you say so."
She huffed, turning toward the bathroom. "I'm going to change. Don't-" She paused, glancing back at him warily. "-Don't do anything stupid."
His grin widened. "Define stupid."
"Ugh!" She slammed the door shut behind her.
Satish leaned back on the couch, rubbing a hand over his face.
Sharayu leaned against the bathroom door, exhaling sharply.
"Damn him."
Her heartbeat was still erratic from their conversation, and the worst part? She could still feel his presence. The way his deep voice curled around his words, the way he looked at her with that teasing glint in his eyes, as if he knew exactly how he was affecting her.
"Annoying man."
She changed into her nightwear - a simple oversized T-shirt and shorts. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out, only to find Satish sitting on the bed.
Not the couch.
Not even pretending to sleep.
The bed.
"Uh... what are you doing?" she asked, folding her arms.
Satish stretched lazily, his muscles flexing under the black shirt he had changed into. "The couch is too small. My legs were hanging off the edge."
Sharayu narrowed her eyes. "Liar. This is a huge couch."
He smirked. "Not as comfortable as the bed, though."
She sighed, rubbing her temples. "Fine. I'll take the couch."
Before she could move, he grabbed her wrist, tugging her forward. She stumbled, landing right on the bed, dangerously close to him.
"Satish!" she hissed, trying to push away.
But he didn't let go.
Instead, he leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. "Why are you running, sweetheart?"
Sharayu's entire body went rigid. "I-I'm not!"
He tilted his head. "Then stay."
Her throat went dry. "You-!"
His fingers ghosted over her wrist, tracing slow, lazy circles.
What the hell is he doing?
"Scared?" he murmured, his lips just barely brushing her temple.
Sharayu's breath hitched. This wasn't fair.
He was too close.
His scent - a mix of mint and cedarwood - was intoxicating.
And his voice - deep, teasing, dangerous.
She swallowed hard, trying to keep her voice steady. "No."
Satish chuckled. "Liar."
Before she could retort, he suddenly flipped their positions.
One second, she was sitting.
The next, she was pinned beneath him.
Her gasp echoed in the room. "SATISH-!"
He braced himself on his elbows, caging her in.
"Shhh," he whispered, his nose grazing her jaw. "You'll wake the others."
Sharayu went still.
Her pulse thundered in her ears as he slowly dragged his lips down her jaw, teasingly slow.
She squeezed her eyes shut, but her traitorous body arched slightly into him.
"Satish..." she whispered, gripping his shirt.
He smirked against her skin. "Yes?"
"You... you're such a menace."
He hummed in amusement, pulling back slightly to meet her eyes. "And yet, you're not pushing me away."
Her fingers tightened around his shirt. "I hate you."
Satish smirked. "Liar."
Then, before she could react, he kissed her.
Slow.
Teasing.
Deliberate.
He tilted her chin up, deepening it, letting his tongue trace along her bottom lip before pulling away just as she leaned in for more.
Her lips parted in surprise.
He grinned. "Goodnight, sweetheart."
And with that, he rolled to the side, leaving her completely breathless.
Sharayu stared at the ceiling, eyes wide, heart hammering.
"This man is going to be the death of me."
***
The golden morning light seeped through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow inside the room. The air was crisp, the distant chirping of birds breaking the silence of dawn. But inside the bed, everything was still.
Satish woke up slowly, feeling an unfamiliar warmth pressed against him. His mind was still hazy with sleep, but as he became more aware, his body went rigid.
His hand was resting on something incredibly soft.
Warm. Silky. Bare.
It took him exactly three seconds to realize where he was touching.
Sharayu's waist.
His breath hitched.
Not only was his hand resting on the smooth curve of her waist - his fingers barely grazing the skin where her T-shirt had ridden up - but their legs were tangled together.
Her slender leg was draped over his, and somehow, at some point during the night, she had scooted closer, tucking herself into his chest.
Satish swallowed hard.
He froze, every nerve in his body screaming at him not to move.
If he moved even an inch, she would wake up. And if she woke up and found his hand where it was, she would probably murder him on the spot.
But, God, was this moment heavenly.
He let out a slow, quiet breath, his eyes flickering down to her face.
She looked so peaceful.
Her lips slightly parted, her long lashes resting against her cheeks. The soft rise and fall of her chest against him, her breath fanning against his collarbone - it was dangerous.
Painfully intoxicating.
This is what I want, he thought, his heart clenching.
Waking up beside her.
Holding her like this.
Seeing her face before anything else in the morning.
It was something he hadn't even let himself dream about. But now, here she was.
And if he had his way, this wouldn't be the last time.
His fingers, of their own accord, tightened slightly around her waist, his thumb brushing ever so lightly against her skin.
She stirred slightly, pressing her face closer into his chest, mumbling something incoherent.
Satish held his breath.
God, she was going to be the death of him.
A smirk tugged at his lips as he imagined her reaction when she woke up.
Would she scream?
Would she punch him?
Would she blush furiously and refuse to meet his gaze?
Whatever it was, he wasn't going to miss it for the world.
But for now, he stayed still, memorizing everything.
Because waking up next to Sharayu?
He wanted this forever.
Satish lay still, heart pounding, as Sharayu unconsciously snuggled closer, her soft breath tickling his collarbone. His grip on her waist tightened involuntarily, his fingers brushing against the bare skin beneath her top. It was dangerous, intoxicating, and completely out of his control.
He knew he should move. He knew he should wake her up gently or at least untangle their legs before she woke up and possibly killed him.
But he couldn't.
Because this moment - her warmth, the way her fingers clutched his shirt even in sleep, the way her leg was entangled with his as if they belonged together - felt like something he never wanted to end.
"Just a little longer," he told himself, but he knew he was already doomed.
Then, she stirred.
A soft, sleepy sigh left her lips as she shifted slightly, her body pressing even closer. Satish shut his eyes for a second, exhaling through his nose, trying to control himself.
Her lips were so close to his neck now.
And then - disaster struck.
Her fingers moved.
From where they had been clutching his shirt in sleep, her hand slid slightly, her fingertips brushing against his chest.
A sharp jolt ran through him.
Satish bit his lip hard, his jaw clenching.
"Damn it, woman."
He squeezed his eyes shut, cursing himself for putting himself in this situation.
But then, she moved again.
And this time, she woke up.
Her body tensed against his, her fingers curling slightly as she became aware.
The first thing she felt was warmth.
Then, a strong arm wrapped around her waist.
Then, a heartbeat beneath her cheek.
And then, reality hit her like a brick.
Her eyes snapped open, and the first thing she saw was Satish's shirt, so close that her face was practically buried in it.
She froze.
Her breath hitched, her entire body stiffening.
And then - she looked up.
Straight into his eyes.
Satish was already awake, his gaze dark, intense, and way too amused for her liking.
Her heart slammed against her ribs.
"Good morning," he murmured, his voice deep and husky from sleep.
She didn't reply.
Because her brain had completely short-circuited.
Her eyes darted down - to his hand still resting on her waist.
Her bare waist.
To their legs tangled together.
To how she was practically on top of him.
Her face turned an impossible shade of red.
"S-Satish..." she whispered, her voice barely there.
"Hmm?" His thumb brushed over her skin - deliberately.
Sharayu shuddered.
Her breath hitched, her fingers tightening on his shirt as a shiver ran down her spine.
"You-" she swallowed, her mind scrambling for words. "Move your hand."
"Why?" he smirked, his voice teasing. "It's comfortable."
Sharayu gasped.
"You-!!"
She tried to move away, but Satish's arm tightened around her waist, pulling her back against him.
"Not so fast," he murmured, his lips brushing against her forehead.
Sharayu froze again.
Her heartbeat went wild.
The air between them grew thick - intense.
"You look cute when you're flustered," he murmured, his lips dangerously close to her ear now.
Sharayu's breath caught in her throat.
She could feel the heat radiating from his body, the warmth of his breath on her skin.
Her fingers, of their own accord, clutched his shirt tighter.
"Satish..." she whispered again, her voice a mix of frustration and something else - something neither of them were ready to name yet.
"Hmm?" he teased, his lips grazing the shell of her ear.
"Let me go," she said, but even to her, it didn't sound convincing.
Satish chuckled.
"Are you sure?"
She wasn't.
Satish's grip on Sharayu's waist tightened slightly, his fingers brushing against the smooth skin beneath her top. The warmth of her body against his was maddening, the way she fit so perfectly in his arms felt like a cruel test of his self-control.
Sharayu was still frozen, her breath shallow, her heart pounding so hard she was sure he could hear it. Her gaze flickered between his intense, dark eyes and his lips - those lips that were far too close for her sanity.
She should move.
She needed to move.
But she couldn't.
Satish smirked slightly, his eyes hooded as he tilted his head just a little, his nose brushing against her temple.
"You're not trying to run away," he murmured, his voice husky and teasing.
Sharayu swallowed hard. "S-Satish-"
"Shh..." His thumb moved, slowly tracing circles over her bare waist.
Sharayu shivered.
His touch was electric, sending shivers up her spine, making her feel hot and cold at the same time.
She gasped slightly when he leaned in, his lips brushing just below her ear, the barest touch, yet it sent a wave of heat crashing through her body.
"You're playing with fire," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Satish chuckled, his chest vibrating against hers.
"And you're the one who crawled into my arms last night, sweetheart."
Her eyes widened.
"I-I did not!" she protested, her cheeks burning.
"You did." His voice was lazy, smug, and far too deep.
"I did not!" she repeated, but her voice was less convincing this time.
"You did," he hummed, his lips dangerously close to her jaw now.
Sharayu sucked in a sharp breath.
"You could have pushed me away," she shot back, attempting to take control of the situation.
Satish smirked. "Why would I?"
Sharayu's stomach flipped.
"You-!"
Before she could finish, he moved.
His lips ghosted along her jawline, his breath hot against her skin.
Sharayu went completely still.
His nose brushed against the column of her throat, his lips hovering over her pulse point.
Her breath hitched.
"Satish..." she whispered, her fingers clutching onto his shirt.
"Hmm?" His voice was deep, teasing, dripping with control.
She was burning.
Her skin felt like it was on fire wherever he touched her.
The room was silent, save for their breaths.
His lips hovered over her collarbone now, his hand firm on her waist.
Sharayu felt her stomach twist with anticipation, her nerves a mess.
"S-Satish..."
His lips curled against her skin.
"I love the way you say my name like that," he whispered.
Her entire body tensed.
She was losing.
Losing to the tension, to the way he made her feel.
And he knew it.
"You're an idiot," she muttered, but her voice lacked venom.
Satish chuckled, the sound deep and delicious.
"An idiot who's got you trapped," he said, tilting her chin up with his fingers.
Her breath got caught in her throat.
She could feel everything.
His warm breath fanning over her lips.
The soft graze of his fingertips against her skin.
The way his eyes darkened as they dropped to her lips.
"Move," she whispered, but it was a lie.
She didn't want him to.
And he knew it.
Satish leaned in just a little closer, his lips brushing over the corner of her mouth.
Sharayu sucked in a shaky breath.
She was about to lose it.
The air between them was thick, heavy with something neither of them wanted to name yet.
Just when she thought he would finally close the distance-
A loud knock on the door made them both jump apart.
Sharayu's heart nearly exploded.
Satish cursed under his breath, running a frustrated hand through his hair.
The spell was broken.
But the fire?
Still there. Burning.
"Sharayu, are you up?!" Hriday's voice came from the other side.
Sharayu swallowed hard, her mind still spinning.
"I-I'm up!" she called back, her voice too high-pitched.
Satish smirked. "You sure about that?"
She glared at him, cheeks flaming.
"Shut up," she hissed, before shoving him away and scrambling out of bed.
Satish just laughed.
Because he knew.
This wasn't over.
Sharayu stood near the door, trying to steady her breath, her hands pressed against her burning cheeks. Satish's laughter still rang in her ears, low and smug.
He knew exactly what he had done to her. And worse? He was enjoying it.
She turned to glare at him, only to find him leaning back against the headboard, arms crossed, watching her with that infuriating smirk on his face. His hair was slightly messy from sleep, his shirt rumpled, and his eyes still held the weight of whatever had passed between them just moments ago.
Damn him.
"Stop smirking," she hissed under her breath.
"Why?" he mused lazily, tilting his head. "Did I do something, sweetheart?"
Her eyes widened.
Did he just-?!
"Don't call me that!" she snapped, her voice flustered.
"Why not?" he teased, his voice dripping with amusement.
Sharayu threw a pillow at him.
Satish caught it effortlessly, his smirk deepening.
Before she could argue further, Hriday knocked again.
"Sharayu, we're going out for breakfast! If you don't get out in five minutes, I'm breaking in!"
Sharayu groaned, pressing her forehead against the wooden door.
God save her from these idiots.
Satish stretched lazily, standing up with a smirk. "You better get going, princess. Wouldn't want your friends to think you spent the night tangled up with your professor, would we?"
Sharayu's jaw dropped.
"You-!" She grabbed another pillow, but he was already dodging her attack, chuckling as he made his way to the bathroom.
"Go freshen up, sweetheart," he said over his shoulder, his voice thick with amusement. "Wouldn't want them to see you all flustered, now, would we?"
And with that, he shut the door behind him.
Sharayu stood there, seething, her face still burning.
***
Fifteen minutes later, everyone was seated at the long table near the poolside, plates full, conversation buzzing.
Sharayu, however, was still recovering from the morning's torture.
"Are you okay?" Arohi nudged her. "You look... I don't know, flustered?"
"Flustered?!" Rutuja leaned in, narrowing her eyes. "She looks positively wrecked."
Sharayu nearly choked on her coffee.
"I do not look wrecked!" she protested.
Kunal smirked. "Then why do you look like you've had the most interesting night of your life?"
"Because she did," a deep, smug voice cut in from behind them.
Sharayu froze.
Everyone turned, only to see Satish, fresh from the shower, walking toward them.
His hair was still slightly damp, a few water droplets sliding down his jawline, and he wore a crisp black T-shirt with gray sweatpants - looking annoyingly comfortable and ridiculously attractive.
Sharayu hated him.
Her friends, on the other hand, were having the time of their lives.
"Oh?" Vrushal smirked, his eyes lighting up with mischief. "Care to explain, Sir?"
"Please," Gayatri added. "We're all ears."
Satish sat down beside Sharayu, way too close, his arm casually resting behind her chair.
Sharayu stiffened.
He leaned in slightly, voice low and taunting.
"She's just a little sore from this morning, that's all," he said, smirking as he sipped his coffee.
Sharayu's soul left her body.
Her friends erupted in chaos.
"Sore?!"
"Sharayu, WHAT DID YOU DO?!"
"Satish Sir, YOU CAN'T JUST SAY THAT AND EXPECT US TO IGNORE IT!"
Sharayu whipped around, face red. "YOU-!"
Satish bit back a laugh, taking another slow sip of coffee.
"Relax," he murmured. "I was talking about the way she twisted in her sleep." He turned to the group. "She nearly kicked me off the bed."
The table fell silent.
Sharayu groaned.
And then-
Laughter exploded.
Hriday clutched his stomach, howling. "I- I CAN'T-"
Rutuja was wiping tears. "Sharayu, you kicked him?!"
Sharayu dropped her head onto the table. "I hate all of you."
Satish leaned in, voice just for her.
"Do you?"
Sharayu tensed.
That tone. That stupid deep, teasing tone.
She peeked up, only to find his eyes locked onto her - dark and knowing.
Her heart stuttered.
Oh, she was so screwed.
***
While the rest of their friends were laughing and playing around in the garden, Satish had other plans.
Sharayu barely had time to protest before he grabbed her wrist and pulled her away, guiding her toward the side of the farmhouse.
"Satish, where are we going?" she questioned, half amused, half confused.
"You'll see," he said, a mysterious smile playing on his lips.
She narrowed her eyes but didn't resist. There was something different about his mood today - something almost soft.
They walked past the main garden, weaving through the trees, until they reached a small stone pathway leading to a secluded spot behind the farmhouse.
And then-
Sharayu gasped.
The place was breathtaking.
A small wooden gazebo stood in the middle, surrounded by glowing fairy lights and candles that flickered against the soft December breeze. A small bonfire was crackling nearby, and a cozy seating area with pillows and blankets was arranged around it.
Her heart skipped a beat.
"You... did this?" she whispered, turning to look at him.
Satish shoved his hands into his pockets, suddenly looking a little unsure. "I might have arranged it before we left this morning."
"You planned this?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.
His gaze softened. "You said earlier that you'd love to live in a place like this. I just thought..." He looked away, rubbing the back of his neck. "Maybe you'd like a little preview of your future home."
Sharayu froze.
Her future home?
Her breath hitched as she replayed his words, her chest tightening.
Was he serious?
She turned to him fully now, her heart pounding.
"Satish..."
He sighed, stepping closer, his voice low and deep. "I know we still have a long way to go. But I also know what I want. And, Sharayu..." He lifted her chin slightly, making her look at him. "I want you. Every single day, every morning, every night. In a place like this, or anywhere else, as long as you're with me."
Sharayu forgot how to breathe.
This man. This infuriating, smug, teasing man... was also the one who made her heart race like nothing else.
Her fingers clutched the fabric of his hoodie, trying to ground herself. "You're serious?"
His gaze darkened. "Completely."
A shiver ran down her spine, not from the cold but from the intensity in his eyes.
"Say something," he murmured, stepping impossibly closer, his breath warm against her lips.
"I..." Her voice faltered. She swallowed, trying to control the storm raging inside her.
And then-
She stood on her toes and kissed him.
It wasn't slow.
It wasn't hesitant.
It was raw, deep, and full of everything she felt but couldn't put into words.
Satish groaned, his arms wrapping tightly around her waist, pulling her flush against him.
The cold air disappeared. The world around them blurred into nothing.
His hands gripped her waist, trailing up her spine, fingers pressing into her skin like he needed her closer - needed her to never leave.
Sharayu tangled her fingers into his hair, pulling him down as her lips moved against his with a desperation she didn't know she had.
Satish's control was slipping. He knew it. But damn it, she was impossible to resist.
When they finally broke apart, both breathing heavily, Sharayu's forehead rested against his chest, her cheeks flushed.
Satish exhaled shakily, pressing a lingering kiss to her temple.
"You're killing me, princess," he whispered against her skin.
Sharayu smirked against his chest. "Good."
He chuckled darkly, tightening his hold on her.
"If you keep this up," he murmured, his voice dropping into a dangerously low tone, "I might just marry you tomorrow."
Sharayu's breath hitched.
***
Sharayu sat between Satish's legs, her back resting against his chest, wrapped snugly in his arms. His blazer was draped over her shoulders, enveloping her in his scent - musk, a hint of sandalwood, and something undeniably him.
Her fingers traced lazy circles on his palm, while his other hand absentmindedly toyed with a loose curl resting against her neck.
For a while, neither of them spoke. They simply existed in the moment, basking in the unspoken love that had grown between them over time.
And then-
"You know," Satish murmured, his lips ghosting over the shell of her ear, "I never thought I'd be the kind of man who falls this hard."
Sharayu's fingers stilled against his palm.
She tilted her head slightly, trying to look at him. "And what kind of man did you think you were?"
His chuckle was deep, vibrating against her back. "A practical one. Someone who keeps emotions at a safe distance. Love? It was always something I thought was meant for others, not me."
Sharayu swallowed past the sudden lump in her throat.
"And now?" she asked, barely above a whisper.
Satish tightened his arms around her. "And now, I wonder how I ever lived without you."
Her heart skipped a beat.
"You make it sound so intense," she tried to tease, but her voice came out softer than intended.
Satish turned her slightly so he could see her face, his eyes locking onto hers. "It is intense, Sharayu. It's terrifying and overwhelming and absolutely maddening. But it's also the best damn thing that's ever happened to me."
Sharayu felt her chest tighten, emotions bubbling up faster than she could control.
She looked away, her fingers nervously fidgeting with his. "Do you ever... think about the future?" she asked, almost hesitantly.
His grip on her fingers tightened slightly.
"Every damn day," he admitted.
Sharayu looked up at him, her eyes searching. "And what do you see?"
Satish exhaled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear before cupping her cheek.
"I see us," he said simply. "Waking up together. You stealing my shirts, even though you already have your own clothes. Me making breakfast, eating together, enjoying time with each other and our families."
She swatted his chest, but she was smiling. "Fine. What else do you see?"
Satish's expression softened, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I see lazy Sunday mornings, you curled up in my arms while we argue about which movie to watch. I see us dancing in the kitchen at midnight, just because we can. I see you laughing, filling every corner of our home with your chaos. I see you, Sharayu - always you."
Her eyes burned with unshed tears.
"Satish..." she whispered.
He leaned in, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Do you know what I see the most?"
She shook her head, unable to form words.
"I see a lifetime of loving you."
Sharayu couldn't stop the single tear that slipped down her cheek.
She turned fully, straddling his lap, cupping his face between her palms. "You idiot," she whispered. "You were never practical. You were always meant to love like this."
Satish smiled, brushing his thumbs against her cheeks. "Only for you."
And then-
She kissed him.
Slow, deep, lingering - the kind of kiss that didn't just speak of love, but of forever.
The warmth of their kiss still lingered between them, but as the night settled into a comfortable silence, a thought nudged its way into Sharayu's mind.
She shifted slightly on his lap, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on his chest. Satish noticed the change in her demeanor immediately.
"You're thinking about something," he stated, tilting his head to study her face.
Sharayu sighed, her gaze fixed on the flickering flames of the bonfire. "It's just... us."
Satish raised a brow. "Us?"
She nodded slowly, chewing on her lower lip. "We're different, Satish. You're my professor, and the age gap between us-"
Satish's expression softened. "And?"
Sharayu let out a breathy chuckle, shaking her head. "And? You say it like it's nothing."
Satish pulled her closer, his arms tightening around her. "Because it is nothing, at least to me."
Sharayu lifted her eyes to meet his. "Maybe for you. But you know how our families are. How society is."
Satish exhaled, understanding where she was coming from.
"Sharayu," he started, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, "do you think I care about what society thinks?"
She let out a soft, bitter laugh. "No, you don't. But your family - your grandmother, your parents - do. My family does. They've always imagined me marrying a boy my age."
Satish smirked. "And yet, here you are. Sitting in my lap. Kissing your professor."
Sharayu rolled her eyes. "Don't joke, Satish. I'm serious."
He sobered up, brushing his knuckles against her cheek. "I know, jaan. And I understand. But tell me something..."
She blinked. "What?"
Satish cupped her face, his thumb stroking the apple of her cheek. "Do you love me?"
Her breath hitched. "You know I do."
"Enough to fight for us?"
Sharayu hesitated for a second, then nodded. "Yes."
Satish's lips curved into a smile. "Then nothing else matters."
Sharayu huffed. "Easy for you to say. What about your Dadi?"
Satish chuckled. "I know. But she also loves me. And when she sees how much I love you, she'll come around."
Sharayu arched a brow. "And if she doesn't?"
Satish smirked. "Then I'll just marry you without asking."
Sharayu gasped. "Satish!"
He laughed, pressing a kiss to her temple. "Relax, jaan. I'm not saying it'll be easy. But I promise you, I'll stand by you through everything. If we have to fight for this, we will. Together."
Sharayu searched his face, looking for any sign of doubt-but there was none. Only unwavering certainty.
"You're impossible," she muttered, shaking her head.
Satish grinned. "And you love me for it."
Sharayu sighed, but a small smile played on her lips. "Yeah, I do."
Satish brushed his lips against hers. "Then trust me, Sharayu. We'll make this work. You and me-against the world, if we have to."
Satish tightened his hold on her, his hands firm yet gentle on her waist. "Loving you is easy," he said, his voice low and intense. "Convincing the world? That'll take some effort, but I don't care how long it takes-I'll do it."
Sharayu exhaled sharply, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt. "What if your family never accepts me? What if they never see me as their own?"
Satish cupped her face, his thumbs stroking her cheeks as if trying to soothe away her worries. "Then I'll show them why they should."
Sharayu shook her head. "You make it sound so simple, Satish. My parents-my father, especially-he's always believed in traditions, in sticking to our roots. And your family-your grandmother, your mother-they've always wanted a traditional Rajasthani bahu. A girl who knows their customs, who speaks their language, who-"
Satish pressed a finger against her lips, silencing her. "And you think you're not enough?" His eyes darkened, a storm brewing within them.
Sharayu swallowed hard. "I-"
"You are more than enough, Sharayu," he said firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument. "You are everything. You are strong, kind, intelligent, and you love with your whole heart. What more could they ask for?"
She tried to look away, but he tilted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze.
"Do you think I'd let anyone-anyone-make you feel like you're not enough for me?" he asked, his tone laced with frustration and passion.
Sharayu bit her lip, her heart pounding. "No..."
"Then stop doubting what we have," Satish murmured, leaning in, his breath warm against her lips.
She shivered, feeling her resolve weaken. "Satish, I just-"
"I love you," he interrupted, his voice a deep whisper. "I don't love you because of your caste, your traditions, or where you come from. I love you because you're you."
Her eyes softened. "Satish..."
"Tell me something," he continued, his fingers tracing slow, burning lines on her waist. "When you imagine your future... do you see me in it?"
Sharayu's breath hitched. She didn't even need to think. "Yes," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Then that's all that matters," he murmured, brushing his lips lightly over hers-a touch so soft, yet so possessive, it sent shivers down her spine.
"But your family..." she tried again, though her voice wavered.
Satish exhaled, pressing his forehead against hers. "They'll come around," he assured her. "And if they don't... then we'll find a way. But I promise you, I will never let you go."
Sharayu felt her heart swell, ache, and melt all at once.
"How do you always know what to say?" she whispered, her lips brushing against his as she spoke.
Satish smirked, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "Because when it comes to you, jaan, my heart speaks for me."
Sharayu's resolve crumbled, and before she could stop herself, she closed the distance between them, kissing him fiercely.
Satish groaned against her lips, his arms tightening around her as he pulled her flush against him. His hands slid up her back, fingers tangling in her hair as he deepened the kiss. It was raw, desperate, filled with promises unspoken but understood.
When they finally broke apart, breathless, their foreheads rested against each other.
"I love you," she whispered, the words finally slipping out effortlessly.
Satish grinned, his thumb brushing over her swollen lips. "Say it again," he murmured.
Sharayu giggled, feeling lightheaded and free. "I love you, Satish."
He groaned. "God, you're going to be the death of me, woman."
She laughed, her heart feeling lighter than ever before.
Satish cupped her face, his thumb grazing her cheekbone as if memorizing the curve of her skin. His breath was warm against her lips, his dark eyes locked onto hers.
"You don't know what you do to me, do you?" he murmured, his voice thick with restrained passion.
Sharayu swallowed, her heartbeat erratic. "Satish..."
"Every time you look at me like that," he continued, his fingers trailing down her arms, igniting a fire along her skin, "I forget how to think. I forget everything except the fact that I want you. That I need you."
Her lips parted, a shaky exhale escaping as his hands slid lower, his fingers ghosting over her waist, his grip possessive yet gentle.
"Say it again," he demanded, his voice low and rough.
She knew what he meant. Her pulse thrummed as she whispered, "I love you."
A curse slipped from his lips as he pulled her flush against him, their bodies molding together as if they had always belonged this way.
His lips hovered over hers-teasing, tormenting. "One more time, jaan," he murmured, his voice almost a plea.
Sharayu smiled, her fingers curling around his tie, pulling him closer.
"I love you, Satish Singh Rajvanshi," she whispered against his lips, savoring the way his name rolled off her tongue.
That was all it took.
Satish crashed his lips against hers, his control finally snapping. The kiss was a storm-intense, desperate, filled with years of longing and unspoken promises. His hands fisted in her hair, tilting her head back as he devoured her, tasting her, claiming her.
Sharayu melted into him, her hands roaming over his broad chest, feeling his rapid heartbeat beneath her fingertips. His lips traveled down, pressing hot, open-mouthed kisses along her jaw, trailing down her neck.
"Satish," she gasped, her nails digging into his shoulders.
He smirked against her skin, pressing a lingering kiss behind her ear. "Hmm?"
"You-" She broke off when his tongue flicked against her pulse point, making her shudder.
"You were saying?" he teased, his voice thick with desire.
Sharayu tugged at his collar, bringing his lips back to hers. This time, she kissed him with everything she had-a silent promise that she was his, now and forever.
When they finally pulled away, both gasping for breath, Satish rested his forehead against hers.
"Tell me this is real," she whispered, her fingers tracing his jaw.
"It's real," he vowed. "And I'm never letting you go, Sharayu."
She smiled, pure and breathtaking, and in that moment, Satish knew-he would fight the world for her.
***
The moon had risen high in the sky by the time Satish and Sharayu made their way back to the farmhouse. The air between them sizzled with an intensity neither could deny, yet both basked in the warmth of what had just unfolded between them.
Satish drove in comfortable silence, his fingers tapping against the steering wheel as his mind played every single moment of their stolen time together on repeat. The way she looked at him, the way her breath had hitched when he whispered against her skin... Damn, she was going to be the death of him.
Sharayu, sitting beside him, wasn't fairing much better. Her lips tingled, her skin still burned from his touch, and her mind was a mess of emotions she could hardly process. She risked a glance at him-his jaw was clenched, his knuckles slightly white against the wheel.
Was he thinking about it too?
Just as she was about to tease him, Satish pulled the car to a stop just outside the farmhouse, killing the engine.
Neither moved.
The silence stretched, thick with unspoken desires.
Finally, Satish turned to her, his smirk lazy yet full of mischief. "You've been quiet."
Sharayu raised a brow, arms crossing. "And you've been gripping the steering wheel like it personally offended you."
His eyes darkened. "You're playing a dangerous game, jaan."
Her lips curled. She knew exactly what she was doing.
Before he could react, she leaned closer, her breath warm against his cheek. "What game, Mr. Rajvanshi?" she whispered, letting her fingers ghost over his forearm.
Satish sucked in a sharp breath. "You have no idea how badly I want to pull you back into this car and-" He stopped himself, exhaling heavily. "But we need to go inside before your friends start a damn search party."
As if on cue, the front door of the farmhouse swung open, revealing a very suspicious-looking Hriday and Rutuja.
"About damn time!" Hriday called out. "We thought you two got lost in the wilderness or something."
Rutuja smirked, her eyes immediately zeroing in on the way Satish and Sharayu stood far too close. "Or maybe you didn't want to be found?"
Sharayu cleared her throat, stepping away from Satish as naturally as possible. "We were just-"
"-Spending time alone," Hriday finished for her, wiggling his eyebrows.
Satish sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "You all are exhausting."
Gayatri peeked from behind them, grinning. "We try our best."
Vrushal, not missing a beat, dramatically gasped. "Wait. Don't tell me... Did you guys finally-?"
Sharayu glared. "Go inside before I throw you all into the pool."
Kunal chuckled, patting Satish's shoulder. "Good luck, buddy. You're in for a lifetime of this."
Satish smirked, casting a sideways glance at Sharayu. "Wouldn't have it any other way."
Sharayu's heart stuttered.
Damn him.
As they finally entered the farmhouse, surrounded by their friends' teasing laughter, she couldn't help but steal one last look at Satish.
***
The morning sun peeked through the curtains of the farmhouse, casting a golden glow over everything. Birds chirped, the air smelled of fresh earth and a faint hint of the bonfire from last night, and yet-no one was ready to leave.
Hriday groaned, stretching his arms. "Why do we have to go back? Can't we just live here forever?"
Gayatri sighed dramatically. "Exactly! The city means assignments, lectures, and deadlines!"
Kunal smirked. "And grades. Don't forget the grades."
"Shut up, Kunal," Arohi mumbled, still half-asleep.
While everyone grumbled about leaving, Sharayu stood near the balcony, lost in thought. Her gaze was fixed on the endless greenery surrounding them, the same greenery where she had spent some of the most intense, romantic moments of her life. Moments that had permanently changed things between her and Satish.
She wasn't ready to leave either.
"Already missing it?"
A deep, familiar voice broke her trance. She didn't need to turn to know it was Satish. She could feel him. His presence was like a fire, warming her even when he wasn't touching her.
"Maybe," she admitted softly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "It was... nice."
Satish stepped closer, his hands casually tucked in his pockets. "Nice? That's all?"
She turned, raising an eyebrow at his teasing smirk. "What else do you want me to say?"
He leaned in slightly, voice lowering. "That you don't want to leave me?"
Her breath hitched. Damn him. Damn his voice. Damn his everything.
But before she could retort, a loud whistle pierced the air.
"Oi, lovebirds! Time to pack up!" Vrushal shouted, grinning.
Sharayu felt her face heat up, while Satish just sighed, rubbing his temple. "Why are they like this?"
"They're my friends," Sharayu said, smirking. "What did you expect?"
"I expected some privacy," he muttered, stealing one last glance at her before stepping back.
And just like that, the moment passed.
Back inside, packing was a disaster.
Gayatri was sitting on her suitcase, trying to zip it shut. Hriday was dramatically lying on the couch, refusing to move. Arohi was stuffing snacks into her bag like they were about to go on a survival mission.
And then there was Kunal and Vrushal, who had completely given up.
"Why do I always end up with extra clothes?" Kunal groaned.
"Because you steal hotel towels," Vrushal shot back.
"I DO NOT!"
"Then explain this towel in your bag, genius?"
Before Kunal could argue, Satish walked in, eyeing the chaos like a disappointed father. "Are you all children?"
"Mentally? Yes," Hriday answered immediately.
Satish sighed, muttering something under his breath before locking eyes with Sharayu across the room. Her gaze was already on him.
Something unspoken passed between them.
It wasn't just about the trip. It wasn't just about the moments they had stolen.
It was about what came next
Once everything was packed, they finally piled into the cars. Satish, of course, was driving his car-with Sharayu in the passenger seat.
Her friends had fought to sit with them, but one glare from Satish was enough to make them happily take the other car.
"Possessive much?" Sharayu teased as Satish started the engine.
"After the torture your friends put me through?" He scoffed. "I deserve at least this much peace."
She laughed, shaking her head. He was impossible.
The drive back was filled with stolen glances, lingering touches, and comfortable silence.
Every now and then, their hands would brush against each other-deliberately or by accident, neither of them really knew.
All they knew was that leaving the farmhouse didn't change anything.
Because this? This thing between them? It wasn't just a vacation romance.
It was something real.
The road stretched long before them, bathed in the soft golden glow of the evening sun. The wind carried the scent of fresh earth, rustling through the trees that lined the highway. Inside the car, the atmosphere was thick-not with silence, but with everything left unsaid.
Satish's fingers tapped lightly against the steering wheel, his sharp eyes fixed on the road ahead. But his thoughts? All on the girl beside him.
Sharayu sat quietly, her fingers playing with the bracelet on her wrist. Every now and then, she would steal a glance at him, biting her lip when she caught his sharp profile, the way his jaw clenched when he was deep in thought.
She knew what he was thinking.
She could feel it.
The tension between them wasn't just casual anymore. It was electric. Palpable. Dangerous.
Meanwhile, in the Other Car...
Gayatri, Vrushal, Hriday, Kunal, and Arohi were noticing things.
"I swear, they're acting like a married couple who just had a lovers' spat," Arohi muttered, peeking through the windshield at Satish's car ahead.
Vrushal chuckled. "Or like a married couple about to break every speed limit just to get home and... you know."
Kunal gagged. "Dude. No. That's our friend. I don't need mental trauma."
Gayatri smirked. "Oh, please. Satish is literally devouring her with his eyes every time she looks away."
Kunal leaned back, smirking. "I say, they'll be engaged within six months. Wedding in a year, max."
"Three months," Arohi corrected.
"One month," Vrushal added confidently.
Hriday groaned. "Why are we betting on their love life?"
"Because we have nothing better to do," Kunal said, grinning.
Everyone laughed, but deep down, they all knew the same thing-Sharayu and Satish weren't just 'something.' They were inevitable.
"Why are you so quiet?" Satish finally broke the silence, his voice low, teasing.
Sharayu shrugged. "Why? You want me to entertain you?"
He smirked. "Wouldn't mind."
She rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "I was just thinking."
"About?"
She turned towards him, resting her cheek against the window. "You."
Satish's grip on the steering wheel tightened. "Oh?"
"You looked good this weekend," she continued nonchalantly. "Especially in that black shirt. Dangerously good."
His smirk deepened. "You should've told me earlier. I would've worn it more often."
She sighed dramatically. "No point now. We're heading back, and I'll just have to live with the memory."
Satish chuckled. "Is that why you kept staring at me? To burn the memory in your mind?"
Sharayu turned to face him fully, resting her elbow on the armrest. "Oh, Satish," she whispered, voice dripping with mischief. "If I was staring, you'd have known. Because you wouldn't be able to look anywhere else either."
Satish cursed internally. This woman was going to be the death of him.
He let out a breath, gripping the wheel a little harder. "Sharayu," he warned, voice rough.
"What?" she asked innocently.
"You know what."
Her eyes glowed with amusement. "Do I?"
Satish shot her a look-one that promised revenge.
"You just wait," he murmured under his breath. "Just wait"
A thrill ran through her.
As the city lights grew brighter, a quiet understanding settled between them.
This wasn't the farmhouse anymore.
This was reality.
Their love was still a secret-hidden in the stolen touches, the longing glances, the teasing words. But it wouldn't be forever.
Because deep down, they both knew.
One day soon, the world would know, too.
The car rolled to a slow stop in front of Sharayu's house. The streetlights cast a soft glow, and the silence of the late evening wrapped around them. Inside the car, however, there was nothing but noise. Not the kind you could hear, but the kind you could feel-thick, unspoken, breathless.
Satish shifted in his seat, one arm draped casually over the steering wheel, his other resting on the gear shift. But his eyes-his damn eyes-were fixed on her.
"You're home," he said, voice low, almost reluctant.
Sharayu didn't move immediately. Instead, she turned slightly in her seat, watching him. The dim lighting softened his features, but there was no mistaking the sharp intensity in his gaze.
Her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her kurti. "Yeah," she murmured. "I should go."
She should.
But she didn't.
Because leaving felt harder than it should have.
Because the past two days-the stolen moments, the teasing, the confessions, the tension-they weren't just something to brush aside.
She swallowed. "Satish?"
"Hmm?"
Her breath hitched. She leaned in before she could overthink it, her fingers gently resting on his shoulder for balance.
Satish froze, his body instantly tensing.
And then-the kiss.
Soft. Barely there. A whisper of warmth against his cheek.
But it was enough.
Enough to drive him insane.
His jaw clenched, his hands gripping the wheel just a little tighter.
When she pulled back, her face was so close. Their breaths mingled, the air between them thick with something dangerous, something unspoken.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice carrying a thousand emotions in just two words.
Satish turned his head slightly, just enough so that their noses brushed. Just enough to make her breath hitch.
"You're playing with fire, Sharayu," he murmured.
A slow, teasing smile tugged at her lips. "Am I?"
His fingers twitched. He could grab her waist, pull her back, claim the kiss she had so cruelly teased him with.
But then-the car light flickered on.
Sharayu's eyes widened. "Shit," she whispered, scrambling back.
Satish let out a sharp breath, half frustrated, half amused. "Go before I decide to walk you inside and give your parents a reason to ask questions."
She bit her lip, hesitating for just a second longer before pushing the door open. As she stepped out, she turned back one last time, mischief twinkling in her eyes.
"Goodnight, Professor," she whispered, then winked.
And then she was gone.
Satish let his head drop back against the headrest, running a hand through his hair.
This woman was going to kill him.
With a sigh, he shifted the car into gear.
As he drove away, one thought settled heavily in his mind.
She could thank him with a kiss all she wanted.
But one day soon, he'd take his thanks properly.
And he'd make sure she felt every second of it.
***
Satish stepped into his home, exhausted yet oddly satisfied. The past two days had been... something else. Sharayu's teasing, her kisses, her mischief. Damn woman. He was tortured and blissful all at once.
All he wanted now was a hot shower and a long nap.
But the second he stepped into the living room-he knew. He was in trouble.
His mother, Ridhima, was seated on the sofa with her arms crossed, a cup of chai untouched in front of her. His father, Rajveer, was reading the newspaper-but upside down. His grandmother, Vasundhara, was staring at him like he was a criminal caught red-handed.
And then there were his siblings-Daksh and Vanya.
Daksh looked entertained. Vanya? Oh, she was enjoying this way too much.
Satish sighed, already sensing the storm coming. He dropped onto the couch, rubbing his temples.
"Where were you, beta?" his mother asked, her tone sweet-too sweet.
"I already told you, Maa," Satish replied, stretching lazily. "I was on a trip with Neelesh."
Silence.
A silence so loud that Satish finally looked up.
Vanya bit her lip to stop from laughing. Daksh was straight-up smirking.
Satish frowned. "What?"
His father flipped the newspaper. Still upside down.
And then Vasundhara dropped the bomb.
"Beta," she said, in that knowing, grandmotherly tone, "Neelesh was here yesterday."
Satish froze.
"He had tea with us," Ridhima added casually, sipping her chai.
"And snacks," Vasundhara continued.
"And dinner," Vanya finished, barely containing her glee.
Satish's jaw clenched. Shit.
Rajveer finally folded his newspaper, giving his son the 'busted' look. "So tell me again, Satish... where were you?"
Satish took a deep breath. Think, Satish, think!
"I-uh..." he cleared his throat, looking at Daksh for help. His traitor of a brother just smirked.
"Maa, I was with... some college friends," Satish tried. Technically, not a lie.
Ridhima raised an eyebrow. "Which ones?"
Vanya giggled. "Yeah, bhai. Any special friends we should know about?"
Satish shot her a glare.
His father shook his head, disappointed but amused. "Satish, you're almost thirty. Lying about a trip? Really?"
"I didn't lie," Satish defended. "I just... didn't tell the full truth."
Vasundhara sighed dramatically. "Ah, this generation. Back in my day, when we met our someone special, we introduced them proudly!"
Satish nearly choked. "Dadi!"
Daksh whistled. "Oooh. So there is a special someone."
Vanya gasped. "Wait. Wait. What if-" She turned to her mother. "Maa, do you think Satish bhai has a girlfriend?"
Ridhima tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Maybe. I mean, he was away for two whole days..."
Rajveer joined in, nodding. "And came back smiling."
Vasundhara's eyes twinkled. "And lying about it!"
Satish groaned, rubbing his face. "I swear to God, you people are worse than an interrogation squad!"
Vanya pouted. "But bhai, we're just curious!"
Satish stood up abruptly. "I'm going to shower."
"Running away, are we?" Daksh teased.
"Yes," Satish deadpanned, already walking.
He grabbed his bag and marched to his room-not realizing his phone was still on the coffee table.
Satish dragged himself to his room, kicking off his shoes lazily. That interrogation was pure hell. His family was worse than a CBI investigation team. They sniffed out his lies like trained hounds.
Groaning, he tossed his towel onto the bed and unbuttoned his shirt, walking toward the bathroom. A long, hot shower. That's what he needed.
Meanwhile, in the living room...
Vanya was the first to notice the buzzing phone on the coffee table.
Satish bhai left his phone? That's unusual.
She didn't mean to snoop, but then a notification popped up.
A message.
From someone named Sharayu.
Sharayu? Who the hell was Sharayu?!
Curious, she leaned forward. But before she could tap the screen, her jaw dropped.
The wallpaper.
Oh. My. God.
It was a picture of a girl.
In a stunning red dress.
Looking like an absolute goddess.
Her elder brother-Satish Singh Rajvanshi-had a wallpaper of a mystery girl, wearing a sultry red dress.
"OH MY GOD!" she screeched, grabbing the phone.
Daksh looked up from his own phone. "What now?"
Vanya waved the phone like a winning lottery ticket. "Look at THIS!"
Daksh leaned in, frowning. But the moment he saw the screen, his eyes widened.
"No. Freaking. Way."
"What? What happened?" Ridhima asked, standing up.
"Who's that?" Vasundhara peered over her glasses.
Vanya practically shoved the phone in her mother's face. "That's what we're asking!"
Ridhima gasped. "Wait. Who is she?"
Vanya shrugged dramatically. "That's the mystery! Some girl named Sharayu messaged him, and this is his WALLPAPER!"
Vasundhara squinted at the photo. "Hmmm. She's beautiful."
Ridhima snatched the phone from Vanya.
"Satish's wallpaper is of a girl." She stated it like she was trying to process the words out loud.
Silence.
Dead silence.
Then, Vasundhara grinned.
"My grandson has a girlfriend!"
Daksh smirked. "Ohhh, bhai is SO done for!"
Ridhima's eyes narrowed. "Who is she? How long has this been going on? Why hasn't he told us?!"
Vanya giggled. "I say we find out."
Rajveer nodded, enjoying the chaos. "Agreed."
Just then-
Footsteps.
Satish was coming back.
Vanya panicked. "Quick! Put the phone back!"
Ridhima shoved the phone onto the table.
Vasundhara picked up the newspaper like nothing happened.
Daksh tried-and failed-to look innocent.
Satish walked in, rubbing his wet hair with a towel.
He froze immediately.
Something was off.
Way off.
Everyone was sitting too still.
Too quiet.
And they were all staring at him.
His gut told him something was wrong.
He glanced at the coffee table-and saw his phone sitting there.
Unlocked.
His brain stopped working.
Oh.
OH NO.
Ridhima broke the silence first.
"So, beta," she said sweetly. Too sweetly. "Who's Sharayu?"
Satish stiffened.
"Who?" he tried.
Vanya snorted. "Oh, come on, bhai. Don't even TRY that. Your phone was unlocked. We saw."
Satish's face went blank. "Saw... what?"
Daksh smirked. "A beautiful girl. A red dress."
Vanya wiggled her eyebrows. "Your wallpaper."
Satish felt his soul leave his body.
"You-" He pointed at them. "You snooped through my phone?!"
Vanya scoffed. "We didn't snoop! You left it there! The notification popped up and-"
Ridhima interrupted. "Who is she, Satish?"
Satish opened his mouth. Closed it. Opened it again.
Rajveer smirked. "I'd choose my words carefully, son. We already know you weren't with Neelesh."
Satish mentally cursed Neelesh for showing up at the worst possible time.
Vanya grinned evilly. "So, bhai. Who is she?"
Satish ran a hand through his hair, realizing he was trapped.
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