Satish was very much enjoying himself.
His fever was still there, but let’s be honest right now, he was feeling much, much better with Sharayu snuggled up against his chest.
Her head was resting just below his chin, her warm breath tickling his skin, and Satish had never felt this content in his life.
But of course, peace was temporary in this household.
Because right then
A loud throat-clearing shattered their perfect little moment.
Sharayu froze.
Satish froze.
Both of them turned their heads in slow motion.
And there, standing at the door with a very, very amused expression
Was Ridhima Rajvanshi.
Satish’s mother.
Looking at them.
Together.
On the bed.
Very, very close.
Sharayu’s soul left her body.
Satish, for the first time in a while, actually looked panicked.
“Uh...”
Ridhima raised an eyebrow. “Well, well, well.”
Sharayu jumped away so fast that she almost fell off the bed. “A-Aunty! It’s not what it looks like!”
Ridhima smirked. “Oh? Then what is it, beta?”
Satish rubbed his temple. “Maa”
“Oh no, no,”
Ridhima cut him off, grinning.
“Please, explain. My sick son, looking perfectly fine, holding his girlfriend in his arms, both of them looking like they were about to...”
“Maaa!!” Satish groaned, throwing his head back.
Sharayu covered her face with her hands, absolutely mortified.
And that was the exact moment when
Two giggles came from behind Ridhima.
Satish didn’t even have to look.
It was Daksh and Vanya.
Of course.
Because why wouldn’t they show up just to witness his downfall?
Daksh leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, shaking his head. “Wow, bhai. Just wow. You didn’t even wait until your fever went down?”
Vanya snorted. “Sharayu bhabhi, you were supposed to take care of him, not make him feel warmer.”
Sharayu gasped in horror. “Vanya!”
Vanya just grinned, wiggling her eyebrows.
Daksh added, “At least close the door next time, bhai.”
Satish grabbed a pillow and threw it at him. “Shut up!”
Daksh dodged it effortlessly, laughing. “Too late, we’ve seen everything!”
Sharayu looked ready to collapse into the floor.
Satish glared at his mother. “Maa, can you please handle your children?”
Ridhima smirked. “I would, but honestly… this is more fun.”
Sharayu let out a whimper of embarrassment.
Vanya sighed dramatically. “Ah, young love.”
Daksh nodded. “Bhai has fallen so hard.”
Ridhima patted Satish’s head teasingly. “Beta, I just came to check if you were okay. But I see you’re perfectly fine.”
Satish groaned, covering his face with his hands. “This is a disaster.”
Vanya grinned. “For you? Yes. For us? Best day ever.”
Sharayu, still hiding her face, muttered, “I should have stayed in college.”
***
Satish lay back on the bed, arms crossed behind his head, smirking as he watched Sharayu pace the room, clearly flustered from all the teasing his family had just done.
He was still feeling warm and exhausted, but it was mostly the fever now.
Sharayu stopped in front of him, hands on her hips. “Enough lying around. Get up and take a shower. You’ll feel better.”
Satish raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And what if I don’t want to?”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes. “Then I’ll drag you to the bathroom myself.”
Satish’s smirk deepened. “Kinky.”
Sharayu’s mouth fell open. “Satish!”
Satish chuckled. “You walked right into that one, jaan.”
She crossed her arms. “I am serious! You’ll feel fresh after a shower.”
Satish pretended to think. “Hmm. Maybe. But I feel just fine right now.”
She sighed. “Stop being stubborn and get up.”
He suddenly leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, looking at her with that lazy, teasing expression. “You really want me to get in the shower that badly, huh?”
Sharayu huffed. “I just want you to feel better.”
Satish tilted his head. “Well… if you want me in the shower, I wouldn’t mind if you joined me too.”
Silence.
Sharayu’s brain completely short-circuited.
Her entire face went red.
Satish had the audacity to look at her innocently.
“W-what?” she finally stammered.
Satish leaned closer, his voice dropping into a husky whisper. “You heard me, baby.”
Sharayu jerked back, eyes wide. “I YOU “ She groaned, covering her face. “I hate you.”
Satish laughed, thoroughly enjoying himself. “Liar.”
She peeked at him through her fingers. “You’re impossible.”
Satish grinned. “And yet, you’re still here.”
She grabbed a pillow and hit him with it. “Just go take a shower, you shameless man!”
Satish caught the pillow and smirked. “Fine, fine. But only because you asked so sweetly.”
Sharayu pointed to the bathroom. “Go. Now.”
As he got up, he winked at her. “Still an open invitation if you change your mind.”
Sharayu threw another pillow at him.
Satish laughed all the way to the shower.
Sharayu sat on the edge of the bed, scrolling through her phone, still blushing from Satish’s shameless teasing. The man had no filter! She sighed, shaking her head.
“Shameless man,” she mumbled under her breath.
Just as she was about to get up, the bathroom door creaked open.
Sharayu froze.
Her phone almost slipped from her fingers.
Because there he was.
Satish Singh Rajvanshi.
Fresh out of the shower. Dripping wet. And wearing nothing but a towel hanging dangerously low on his hips.
Sharayu choked on her breath.
Satish, on the other hand, stood there like a Greek god, drying his hair with another towel, completely unbothered.
He ran his fingers through his wet hair and smirked when he noticed her wide-eyed, horror-struck expression.
“Enjoying the view?” he drawled.
Sharayu snapped out of it. “WHAT THE HELL, SATISH?!”
Satish raised an eyebrow. “What?”
Sharayu gestured wildly. “Why are you roaming around like this? Have some shame!”
Satish pretended to think. “Hmm. Nope, don’t have any.”
She glared. “Get dressed!”
He smirked. “Why don’t you do it for me?”
Sharayu’s mouth fell open. “EXCUSE ME?!”
Satish shrugged, stepping closer. “You’re already here, love. Might as well be useful.”
Sharayu gritted her teeth. “Fine! I’ll get your damn T-shirt.”
She stomped to his wardrobe, muttering curses under her breath.
But then
Her foot slipped.
The water from his wet hair had dripped onto the floor.
And before she could even scream
She crashed straight into Satish.
Her hands landed flat on his bare, warm chest.
Satish grunted as he stumbled back, catching her by the waist.
For a moment, there was only silence.
Sharayu’s heart pounded.
His bare skin was hot against her palms. His chest was firm and solid, his muscles tensing under her touch.
Satish, meanwhile, was having the time of his life.
He looked down at her with a slow smirk. “If you wanted to touch me this badly, jaan, you could’ve just asked.”
Sharayu snapped out of it. “SHUT UP!”
She tried to push away, but Satish tightened his grip on her waist.
“Careful,” he murmured, his voice dropping an octave. “You might slip again.”
Sharayu glared up at him. “Let go, Satish.”
He tilted his head. “And if I don’t?”
Her breath hitched.
His fingers caressed the small of her back, his thumb grazing her waist.
Her entire body shivered.
Satish noticed. And smirked.
Sharayu’s face burned.
She clenched her jaw and pushed at his chest, finally breaking free.
Satish chuckled, watching her stumble back, flustered.
“Go put some damn clothes on,” she hissed, pointing at him.
Satish grinned. “Only if you help me.”
Sharayu grabbed a pillow and threw it at him.
Satish laughed, catching it effortlessly. “Admit it, jaan. You like me like this.”
Sharayu grabbed another pillow. “I SWEAR TO GOD, SATISH “
And with that, she stormed toward his wardrobe, ignoring his shameless laughter behind her.
Sharayu yanked open his wardrobe with more force than necessary, her heart still racing.
That man was infuriating.
Her fingers trembled slightly as she grabbed a plain black T-shirt from the neatly arranged stack.
Behind her, Satish leaned lazily against the wall, watching her with a smug smirk.
“I hope you picked my favorite one,” he teased.
Sharayu whipped around, T-shirt in hand. Her glare was deadly. He was still standing there in that damn towel.
“What’s taking you so long to put this on?” she demanded, waving the T-shirt in front of him.
Satish stepped closer, his smirk deepening. “I told you, sweetheart. You do it for me.”
Sharayu stared at him. “Are you serious?”
Satish arched an eyebrow. “You’re the one who insisted I get dressed. So, go on.”
Sharayu’s mouth fell open.
Was he was he actually asking her to dress him?
Her cheeks burned. “I will throw this in your face.”
Satish chuckled darkly. “I’d rather you slide it over my head, love.”
Sharayu clenched her jaw, breathing through her nose.
This was a battle.
And she wouldn’t lose.
“Fine,” she said through gritted teeth.
Satish watched, intrigued, as she stepped forward.
Sharayu held up the T-shirt and tried not to focus on his bare chest his toned muscles, the droplets of water still clinging to his skin.
“Lower your head,” she ordered.
Satish obeyed, but not before flashing her an amused look.
She slid the fabric over his head, her fingers accidentally brushing against his warm skin.
She swallowed hard.
Satish felt it too.
He hummed, his voice deep. “Your hands are shaking, jaan.”
Sharayu ignored him. She pulled the T-shirt down over his shoulders, but the moment her fingers traced his arms, his muscles flexed beneath her touch.
His hands suddenly came up, trapping hers against his chest.
Sharayu’s breath hitched.
Her hands were pressed flat against him, the warmth of his body seeping into her skin.
Satish’s eyes darkened.
He leaned down, voice husky. “You love touching me, don’t you?”
Sharayu’s entire face heated.
“I “
Satish tilted his head. “Say it, jaan.”
Sharayu, furious and flustered, shoved him away. “PUT YOUR DAMN CLOTHES ON, SATISH!”
Satish burst out laughing.
She spun on her heel, determined to put as much distance between them as possible.
But before she could escape
He grabbed her wrist.
Sharayu gasped as she was yanked backward straight into his chest.
His scent fresh soap and something purely Satish wrapped around her.
She struggled, but his grip tightened.
“Let me go,” she huffed.
Satish lowered his lips to her ear.
“Not until you admit you like me like this.”
Sharayu’s heart stuttered.
She twisted in his hold, looking up at him with narrowed eyes. “You’re impossible.”
Satish grinned, his nose almost brushing hers. “And you love it.”
Sharayu exhaled sharply. “Sit. Down.”
Satish, still smirking like the devil himself, dropped onto the edge of his bed with an exaggerated sigh.
“You’re so bossy,” he teased, watching as she snatched the towel from the bed.
She ignored him, stepping between his legs, and began rubbing the towel through his damp hair, drying it with firm but gentle movements.
Satish closed his eyes, letting out a soft hum.
She felt his shoulders relax.
His hands, however, rested on her waist, fingers absentmindedly tracing small circles over her sides.
Sharayu pretended not to notice.
But Satish wasn’t one to stay quiet for long.
“You know…” he murmured, voice deep and lazy. “I think I’m the luckiest man alive.”
Sharayu rolled her eyes. “Wow, finally some sense.”
Satish’s lips twitched. “You’re already acting like my wife.”
Sharayu paused.
Satish felt it the brief hesitation in her movements.
He grinned.
“Drying my hair, scolding me, taking care of me,” he continued, peeking up at her through damp strands. “I love it, jaan.”
Sharayu huffed, resuming her task. “I’m only doing this because you were burning with fever.”
Satish’s grip on her waist tightened slightly.
“Hmm,” he drawled. “So after marriage, will you do this every day?”
Sharayu stiffened.
Satish felt her entire body tense.
Bingo.
Sharayu snapped the towel against his head.
“Ow! Woman, abuse!” Satish yelped, grinning up at her.
Sharayu glared. “Stop saying such cheesy things!”
Satish tilted his head. “Why? You don’t like the thought of taking care of me?”
Sharayu groaned. “Ugh, I swear, you “
Before she could finish, Satish wrapped his arms fully around her waist, pulling her closer.
She let out a small gasp, nearly stumbling into him.
His head rested against her stomach now, his warm breath sending shivers down her spine.
He tilted his head up, eyes dark and teasing.
“Admit it, jaan. You’d love it,” he murmured.
Sharayu bit her lip, refusing to meet his gaze.
Satish smirked. “You’d love to be my wife, wouldn’t you?”
Her heart pounded violently.
She tried to pull away, but his grip held her firm.
“Let go,” she muttered.
Satish pouted. “Say it, then.”
Sharayu glared down at him. “Say what?”
Satish’s smirk deepened.
“Say that you want to marry me,” he said smoothly.
Sharayu gaped at him.
This man…
She should push him away.
She should walk out of this room.
She should
But instead, she found herself leaning slightly closer.
Her fingers, as if betraying her own mind, ran through his hair once more.
Soft.
Warm.
His eyes fluttered shut for a moment, lips parting slightly.
She swallowed.
And then
“Fine,” she whispered.
Satish’s eyes shot open.
Did she just ?
Sharayu smirked, stepping back before he could react.
“I’d love to be your wife…” she trailed off.
Satish blinked.
Sharayu grinned, throwing the towel onto his head.
“…but I’m not going to make it easy for you.”
And then she turned and walked out, leaving a stunned, lovestruck Satish behind.
Just as Satish was recovering from the emotional whiplash Sharayu had given him moments ago, a gentle knock came from the door.
Before he could answer, the door swung open, and in came a house help, carrying a tray filled with food, followed by none other than Ridhima Rajvanshi herself.
Satish internally groaned.
Great. Just what he needed his mother, who had already caught him and Sharayu in a questionable position earlier.
Ridhima paused for a moment, taking in the scene before her.
Satish was sitting on the bed, hair still damp and tousled, Sharayu standing next to him, looking both annoyed and flustered.
And from the way Sharayu’s hands were clutching the towel she had used on him, it was clear she had been fussing over him.
Ridhima smirked.
“Oh wow,” she mused, placing a hand on her hip. “Am I interrupting something again?”
Satish groaned, throwing his head back.
“Ma, please..”
Sharayu, on the other hand, immediately straightened up. “Aunty, I was just ”
“Oh, I can see,” Ridhima teased, stepping further inside. “You were taking care of my son like a perfect little wife, weren’t you?”
Sharayu froze, turning a deep shade of red.
Satish grinned. “She was, actually.”
Sharayu whipped around to glare at him.
This man had no shame!
Ridhima chuckled, shaking her head. “Anyway, enough teasing. Here, I brought food for this sick patient. He needs to eat properly before taking his medicine.”
She set the tray down on the nightstand, glancing at Sharayu.
“Since you’re already playing nurse,” she said sweetly, “why don’t you feed him too?”
Sharayu’s eyes widened.
Satish perked up immediately. “That’s an excellent idea, Ma!”
Before Sharayu could protest, Ridhima nodded approvingly. “It’ll make sure he eats properly.”
Satish turned to Sharayu, blinking up at her innocently.
“You wouldn’t say no to an ill man, would you?” he asked, pouting dramatically.
Sharayu scowled.
She turned to Ridhima. “Aunty, you see how he manipulates people?”
Ridhima laughed. “Oh, trust me, beta, I’ve been dealing with his dramatics since childhood.”
“Unbelievable,” Sharayu muttered under her breath, picking up the bowl of soup.
Satish beamed.
Sharayu gave him a sharp look. “Don’t look so smug.”
“I’m not smug,” Satish replied, grinning. “I’m just happy my girlfriend is taking such good care of me.”
Sharayu flushed.
Ridhima hid her smile.
“Alright,” she said, suppressing her laughter. “I’ll leave you two alone. But make sure he eats everything, okay, beta?”
Sharayu sighed. “Yes, aunty.”
With one last knowing glance, Ridhima left the room, closing the door behind her.
The moment she was gone, Sharayu turned back to Satish, narrowing her eyes.
“You are insufferable.”
Satish grinned wider.
“And you’re adorable when you’re angry.”
Sharayu huffed, bringing the spoon closer to his lips. “Shut up and eat.”
Satish obediently took the bite, watching her with an amused expression.
Sharayu tried to ignore the way his eyes stayed on her, how they softened every time she brought the spoon to his lips.
“See?” Satish said after a few bites. “I’m such a good patient. Not throwing tantrums, eating properly.”
Sharayu snorted. “You literally refused to eat before.”
“That’s because I was waiting for you to feed me,” he said, winking.
Sharayu choked on air.
This man
“Satish!” she scolded, flustered.
Satish laughed, thoroughly enjoying himself.
“Okay, okay, I’ll behave,” he said, holding up his hands in surrender. “Just don’t stop feeding me.”
Sharayu rolled her eyes but continued feeding him.
After a few more bites, she muttered under her breath, “Such a big baby.”
Satish smirked.
“You’ll be dealing with this baby for a lifetime, jaan.”
Sharayu froze, heat rushing to her cheeks.
Satish chuckled, reaching up to take her free hand, squeezing it gently.
And for once, Sharayu didn’t pull away.
Instead, she let him hold it, let him have his moment.
After all…
He is her big baby.
***
Sharayu sighed in relief as Satish finally finished his food, looking too smug for someone who had just been pampered like a five-year-old.
She handed him his medicines and a glass of water. “Here, take this.”
Satish pouted dramatically. “I don’t like taking medicines.”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes. “Satish…”
Satish grinned mischievously. “But I’ll take them if you give me something in return.”
Sharayu folded her arms. “Like what?”
Satish leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a husky whisper. “A cuddle.”
Sharayu blinked.
“A cuddle?” she repeated, raising a brow.
Satish nodded, completely serious. “Yes. I’ll take my medicine, but only if you let me hold you while I sleep.”
Sharayu rolled her eyes. “You’re such a baby.”
“And you’re my personal nurse,” he shot back. “So, it’s your duty to make sure I rest properly.”
Sharayu shook her head, defeated. “Fine. But first, take your medicines.”
Satish smirked, popping the pills into his mouth and washing them down with water.
Once he was done, he patted the space next to him on the bed.
“Come here, sweetheart,” he drawled. “Let me feel better.”
Sharayu hesitated.
“You’ll sleep properly after this, right?” she asked suspiciously.
Satish nodded solemnly. “Absolutely.”
Sighing, she slipped under the quilt beside him.
The moment she settled in, Satish wasted no time.
He pulled her close, burying his face in the crook of her neck, inhaling deeply.
Sharayu froze.
She could feel the heat of his breath against her skin, the way his arms wrapped tightly around her waist, holding her as if she’d disappear.
“Satish…” she whispered, trying to ignore the way her pulse quickened.
“Hmm?” he hummed, his lips grazing her collarbone ever so slightly.
Sharayu swallowed hard.
“You said you wanted to sleep,” she reminded him, her voice weaker than she intended.
Satish smirked against her skin. “I do. But this is my favorite sleeping position.”
Sharayu felt her breath hitch as his grip around her tightened.
His warm hand rested on her waist, fingers lazily tracing patterns on the fabric of her dress.
Her own hands hesitated before moving into his hair, fingers threading through the still-damp strands.
The moment she massaged his scalp, Satish let out a deep, satisfied sigh, his body relaxing completely against hers.
“Mmm,” he hummed, voice thick with contentment.
Sharayu felt a strange warmth bloom in her chest.
“Feels nice?” she asked softly.
Satish nuzzled closer, pressing a soft, lazy kiss against her neck.
“So nice,” he murmured. “I could stay like this forever.”
Sharayu smiled, shaking her head.
Her fingers continued their slow movements through his hair, feeling the tension in his body slowly melt away.
Minutes passed, and his breathing evened out.
Sharayu glanced down at him.
His face was still tucked against her neck, a peaceful expression on his features.
A soft chuckle escaped her lips.
“You’re impossible,” she whispered, pressing a small kiss to his forehead.
Satish didn’t respond
***
Sharayu had no intention of sleeping.
She had only gotten under the quilt to make sure Satish rested properly. That was the plan.
But the warmth of his body, the way his arm was lazily draped around her waist, his breath tickling her neck, and the soft rise and fall of his chest… it was too soothing.
Her fingers were still absentmindedly threading through his hair, the silky strands slipping between them, and before she knew it, her own eyelids grew heavy.
She told herself she would just close her eyes for a second.
Just a second.
But the comfort of his embrace, his scent wrapping around her like a cocoon, pulled her deeper into a peaceful slumber.
And soon, Sharayu drifted off completely.
An Hour Later
A soft knock on the door.
Then another.
Vanya slowly pushed it open, peeking inside.
And the sight before her had her grinning from ear to ear.
Sharayu and Satish were tangled together, fast asleep.
Satish’s face was still buried in Sharayu’s neck, his arm firmly locked around her waist, as if even in sleep, he refused to let go.
Sharayu’s head rested gently against his, her fingers still tangled in his hair.
Their breathing was in sync, peaceful, soft.
Vanya bit her lip to hold back a squeal.
She turned around and silently gestured for Daksh and their mother, Ridhima, to come look.
Ridhima peeked inside, and her lips twitched into a fond smile.
Daksh, on the other hand, grinned mischievously.
“Oh, bhai is down bad,” he whispered dramatically.
“Completely whipped,” Vanya added, smirking.
Ridhima shook her head, amused.
“Let them sleep,” she whispered. “Satish needs rest.”
Vanya giggled. “And Sharayu?”
Ridhima smirked knowingly. “She needs to get used to this. Once they’re married, this is exactly how she’ll find herself every morning.”
Daksh snorted. “Poor girl. She has no idea what she’s signed up for.”
Vanya nodded solemnly. “Yeah. Bhai is like a giant, clingy teddy bear.”
They all exchanged a quiet chuckle before slowly closing the door, leaving the lovebirds in their own little world.
***
A loud buzzing sound shattered the peaceful silence of the room.
Sharayu stirred first, blinking groggily, trying to figure out where she was.
Then, she felt it.
The strong arm around her waist. The warmth against her side. The soft tickle of breath on her collarbone.
Satish.
Still holding her.
Still asleep.
Her heart did a strange little flip.
She turned slightly, looking at his relaxed face, the faintest stubble shadowing his jaw. He looked… different in sleep. Softer. Vulnerable.
But before she could get too lost in admiring him, her phone vibrated again, flashing Rutuja’s name.
Shit.
She quickly grabbed it, answering in a hushed voice, not wanting to wake Satish.
“Hello?” she whispered.
“Where the hell are you?” Rutuja huffed. “You were supposed to be in college! Are you okay?!”
Sharayu froze. Oh no.
She had completely forgotten about college.
Glancing at the time, she gasped. Two hours had passed!
“Uh...” she scrambled for an excuse, “I um… I had a headache. So I uh went home early to rest.”
Satish, still half-asleep, tightened his hold on her waist, pulling her flush against him.
Sharayu squeaked.
“What was that?!” Rutuja asked suspiciously.
“Nothing! I I shifted in bed!” Sharayu rushed out.
“You’re in bed?! At this hour?!”
“YES! BECAUSE I’M SICK! OKAY, BYE!”
And she hung up immediately, before Rutuja could ask more questions.
Sharayu sighed in relief… only to realize Satish was now fully awake, staring at her with a teasing smirk.
“So…” his voice was thick from sleep, raspy and too damn sexy. “You’re ‘sick’?”
Sharayu scowled. “Shut up.”
But Satish wasn’t done teasing.
He slowly leaned in, his nose brushing against her jaw. “If you wanted to skip college just to sleep with me, you could’ve just said so, love.”
Her breath hitched.
“You !” she smacked his shoulder, but he only chuckled, his warm hand splaying across her waist.
“Hmm?” he hummed, nuzzling against her neck.
She shivered.
“Satish, let me go,” she muttered weakly, but her own hands betrayed her, fingers tangling in his soft hair.
“Not yet,” he murmured, his lips grazing her skin, making her stomach do somersaults.
Sharayu swallowed hard.
She had to get out of here before she lost all control.
Taking a deep breath, she placed both hands on his cheeks, making him look at her.
Satish’s smirk faded slightly, his eyes darkening.
“You need to take care,” she whispered. “Rest properly. Eat on time.”
He studied her silently, his gaze searching.
Then, she pressed a lingering kiss on his left cheek.
Then his right.
Satish froze.
His grip on her waist tightened.
Sharayu smirked, knowing exactly what she was doing to him.
But before he could react, she quickly slipped out of his arms, standing up.
“Take care, professor,” she winked, grabbing her phone and rushing out before he could pull her back in.
Satish lay there, staring at the ceiling, his heart pounding.
Damn this woman.
Satish lay there for a good minute, staring at the ceiling like a man who had just been hit by a tornado named Sharayu.
He could still feel the lingering warmth of her lips on his cheeks.
Damn her.
She always did this.
Leaving him speechless, breathless, and aching for more.
With a heavy sigh, he ran a hand through his damp hair, sitting up.
And that’s when he realized something.
She escaped.
She teased him, kissed him, and escaped like a little thief in the night.
His jaw clenched.
“Oh, you think you’re clever, huh?” he muttered, already plotting his revenge.
He collapsed back onto his bed, groaning.
This was hell.
And he had no doubt.
Sharayu was somewhere, smirking to herself, knowing exactly what she had done.
***
The next morning, college was as chaotic as ever.
Students were scattered around, some cramming notes, some gossiping, and some just existing in the misery of 8 a.m. lectures.
But among all of them, one person stood frozen at the entrance of the campus.
Sharayu.
Her eyes widened in disbelief, and she blinked twice, thrice, just to make sure she wasn’t hallucinating.
There, in the distance, walking towards the building like a goddamn movie hero
Professor Satish
What. The. Hell.
Sharayu rubbed her eyes aggressively.
Nope. He was real.
Why was he here?!
This man was literally burning with fever yesterday, cuddling into her like a clingy koala, refusing to get up unless she forced him to.
And today, he was strutting around like nothing happened?
She watched as everyone turned their heads to look at him.
After all, it had been days since he last stepped into college.
First, he went to Rajasthan.
Then, he fell sick.
And now, here he was, walking in like some Bollywood hero returning to reclaim his empire.
Sharayu’s blood pressure skyrocketed.
She marched towards him, hands clenched.
Satish, who had obviously noticed her fuming face from miles away, smirked.
“Good morning, Miss Sharayu,” he said, completely unfazed.
Sharayu stopped right in front of him, narrowing her eyes.
“WHY. ARE. YOU. HERE?”
Satish tilted his head innocently.
“Uhh… because this is my workplace?”
Sharayu glared harder.
“You were literally DYING yesterday!”
He chuckled. “I was not dying, Sharu.”
“YOU HAD A FEVER!” she hissed. “I tucked you in! I fed you food! I gave you medicine! I let you SLEEP on me! And you’re telling me you weren’t dying?!”
He grinned. “Exactly. Thanks to you, I feel better now.”
She gawked at him.
WAS THIS MAN SERIOUS?!
“Better? BETTER?! Have you seen yourself in a mirror? You still look like a sleep-deprived owl!”
“Sleep-deprived owls are cute.”
“SATISH.”
He laughed, finally lifting his hands in surrender.
“Okay, okay! I swear I feel fine. Just a little tired, that’s all.”
“A LITTLE TIRED?!”
Before she could continue her aggressive lecture, another voice joined in.
“Finally! Professor Rajvanshi returns!”
Sharayu turned her head to see Rutuja, Arohi, Vrushal, Hriday, Gayatri, and Kunal walking towards them.
All of them had expressions ranging from amused to shocked.
“You’re alive?” Vrushal asked, dramatically placing a hand on his chest. “I thought we lost you.”
“Look at you, sir! Looking like a warrior who survived a battlefield,” Hriday added.
“Exactly! Rajasthan trip, fever this man has been through a whole TV serial arc,” Kunal joked.
Satish rolled his eyes. “You all are too dramatic.”
Rutuja nodded towards Sharayu. “And why does Sharayu look like she’s about to murder you?”
“Because she is,” Satish replied, grinning.
Sharayu groaned. “Because THIS man refuses to take care of himself!”
“Nothing new there,” Arohi said, sighing. “Sir, seriously. You should’ve just taken more rest.”
“Exactly!” Sharayu pointed at her. “See! Even Arohi says so!”
Satish chuckled, shaking his head.
“If I didn’t come today, my students would cry without me.”
Hriday snorted. “Oh, absolutely. We totally can’t live without your torturous assignments.”
“Also, we would’ve just celebrated another free period,” Vrushal added.
“SEE?!” Sharayu huffed. “They wouldn’t have cried! But now I WILL because YOU’RE SO STUBBORN!”
Satish sighed dramatically. “Aww, my Sharu will cry for me?”
“Shut up.”
Satish laughed, ruffling her hair, much to her horror.
Everyone else just watched in fascination.
Sharayu slapped his hand away, fixing her hair.
“I swear, if you collapse today, I will NOT take care of you again.”
Satish smirked. “Liar.”
Sharayu glared.
“You love me too much to let me suffer,” he said, leaning in slightly.
Her cheeks burned.
“I.....YOU”
Before she could retaliate, he suddenly turned to the group.
“Alright, enough drama. Go to class, everyone.”
“Yeah, yeah, bossy as ever,” Vrushal grumbled.
“Sir, we’ll be watching you,” Hriday added. “If you start looking like you’ll pass out, we’re dragging you back home.”
Satish chuckled. “Duly noted.”
Everyone started heading towards their lecture hall.
Sharayu, however, stayed behind, still eyeing him suspiciously.
He raised an eyebrow. “What?”
“I still don’t trust that you’re fine.”
He sighed, stepping closer and lowering his voice.
“Sharu, I promise I’ll take it easy today.”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes. “You better.”
He smiled, then suddenly whispered, “By the way, you look very cute when you’re worried about me.”
Sharayu’s face exploded into heat.
“S-SATISH!”
He chuckled, turning away.
“Come on, Miss Sharayu. Time for class.”
Sharayu just stood there, fuming, heart racing, regretting every life decision that led her to falling for this stupid, stubborn, infuriating, and unfairly handsome professor.
After all the chaos of the morning, Satish finally stepped into the classroom.
And the moment he did
Silence.
Pin-drop silence.
It was almost as if the air itself had frozen in anticipation.
Because let’s be honest, Professor Satish Singh Rajvanshi had been MIA for weeks.
First, his Rajasthan trip.
Then, his mysterious sick leave.
Now, he was finally back.
The students exchanged glances, waiting for some dramatic opening statement.
But instead
Satish casually placed his bag on the table, adjusted his sleeves, and turned to face them with a blank expression.
“Missed me?”
The class erupted into whispers, chuckles, and murmurs.
Vrushal, being the ever-dramatic soul, clutched his chest. “Sir, you have no idea how much we suffered in your absence.”
Hriday nodded solemnly. “The replacement professors weren’t the same.”
Kunal added, “We were lost souls, sir. Wandering in the dark.”
Gayatri sighed. “We even considered studying on our own.”
Satish chuckled, shaking his head. “Dramatic bunch.”
Then, his eyes landed on Sharayu.
She was sitting in the front row, arms crossed, still slightly annoyed.
He smirked knowingly.
She narrowed her eyes.
Oh, this war wasn’t over yet.
But before she could throw another glare, he clapped his hands together.
“Alright, enough theatrics. Let’s get started.”
Satish turned to the whiteboard and began writing in bold letters:
“PAYMENT OF TAX PAYABLE – GST”
Then, he faced the class. “Alright, tell me. What do you understand by tax payment under GST?”
Arohi raised her hand. “It’s the process where businesses and individuals pay taxes to the government under the GST law.”
Satish nodded. “Good. Now, what are the different types of GST payments?”
Silence.
Students exchanged nervous glances.
Satish sighed. “Did all of you collectively decide to forget everything in my absence?”
Sharayu, sensing an opportunity to annoy him, raised her hand.
“Sir, we were so lost without you that we completely forgot what studying means.”
The class snickered.
Satish exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Great. Now I have to fix all of you.”
He turned back to the board and began writing:
1. CGST (Central Goods and Services Tax)
2. SGST (State Goods and Services Tax)
3. IGST (Integrated Goods and Services Tax)
4. UTGST (Union Territory Goods and Services Tax)
Then, he explained.
“Whenever a business makes a sale, they have to pay taxes. These taxes are divided based on the location of the transaction.”
If the transaction happens within the same state, CGST and SGST apply.
If the transaction happens between two different states, IGST applies.
For Union Territories, UTGST replaces SGST.
Hriday leaned forward. “Sir, how do businesses actually pay these taxes?”
Satish grinned. “Good question.”
He wrote another heading:
Modes of Payment
1. Electronic Cash Ledger – If businesses want to pay using their own money.
2. Electronic Credit Ledger – If they have tax credits available.
3. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Payment – For small businesses that don’t use online banking.
4. NEFT/RTGS – If payments are made directly through the bank.
Satish turned back to the class. “Every taxpayer has to maintain these ledgers in their GST portal. They can use cash or credit, depending on what’s available.”
Kunal raised an eyebrow. “Sir, what happens if someone doesn’t pay?”
Satish smirked. “Ah. Here comes the fun part.”
He wrote:
Consequences of Non-Payment
Interest Penalty – If payment is delayed, interest is charged.
Late Fees – Businesses have to pay extra if they miss deadlines.
Legal Action – The government can take action if someone avoids tax payments.
Vrushal groaned. “So basically, the government doesn’t let you breathe if you don’t pay?”
Satish chuckled. “Exactly.”
Then, he looked at Sharayu. “Miss Sharayu, would you like to explain how businesses adjust their input tax credit?”
Sharayu stiffened.
This traitor.
He was doing this on purpose.
She cleared her throat. “Uhh… Businesses can use their input tax credit to reduce the GST payable. Basically, if they’ve already paid GST while purchasing goods, they can adjust that against their total tax liability.”
Satish smirked. “Correct.”
Sharayu huffed.
This man was too pleased with himself.
Finally, after an hour of explanations, examples, and dramatic complaints from students, the lecture ended.
Satish stretched his arms slightly.
“Alright. Any doubts?”
Vrushal raised a hand. “Sir, why did you come today if you were sick?”
The class laughed.
Sharayu nodded aggressively. “Yes! WHY?”
Satish smiled lazily. “Because teaching you all is fun.”
“Liar,” Sharayu muttered.
He chuckled, ruffling her hair again before walking out.
She gritted her teeth.
***
After class, Sharayu had barely made it halfway down the hallway when her phone buzzed.
Satish Sir.
She sighed, knowing exactly what this was about.
The text was short but absolutely demanding:
“My cabin. Now.”
No reason. No explanation. Nothing.
Sharayu rolled her eyes.
She knew him too well this was just another excuse to mess with her.
Still, her feet automatically changed direction, leading her toward his cabin.
The moment she stepped inside, Satish was already leaning back in his chair, watching her with an annoyingly satisfied smirk.
“Shut the door,” he said smoothly.
Sharayu huffed but obeyed.
Then, she turned, folding her arms. “What now, Professor?”
Satish raised an eyebrow, his gaze sweeping over her slowly, deliberately.
“You didn’task any doubt today ?,” he murmured, tapping a pen against his desk. “Not even a ‘thank you, sir, for your valuable lecture’? That hurts, Sharayu.”
She scoffed. “Oh please. You dragged me into answering questions just to tease me.”
Satish smirked. “Maybe. But you looked cute when you got all flustered.”
Sharayu felt her cheeks heat up.
This man.
She marched up to his desk. “If that’s all, I’ll be leaving.”
Before she could turn, he grabbed her wrist and tugged her forward.
Caught off balance, she tumbled straight onto his lap.
A sharp gasp escaped her lips.
Her hands instinctively landed on his broad shoulders, and his arm coiled tightly around her waist, holding her in place.
She immediately tried to get up. “S-Satish”
“Shh.” His voice was low, velvety, and entirely too dangerous.
He tilted his head, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Why are you acting so shy? You’ve sat on my lap before, sweetheart.”
Sharayu gaped at him.
“This is COLLEGE!” she hissed.
Satish just chuckled, pulling her closer. “And? My cabin, my rules.”
Sharayu tried to push away, but he held firm.
“Sir!” she warned.
“Sir?” he echoed, raising an eyebrow.
He leaned in, whispering near her ear, “Last night, I was Satish. Now, I’m sir again?”
Her breath hitched.
He was enjoying this way too much.
“You’re impossible,” she muttered.
“And you love it,” he countered, smirking.
She was about to snap back when
The door creaked open.
Both of them froze.
“Professor Rajvanshi?”
The voice was sharp, professional Professor Ishita.
Sharayu panicked.
She instantly jumped up, fumbling for an excuse.
“Uh I I dropped my pen!” she blurted, reaching down and pretending to pick something up from the floor.
Satish, completely unbothered, leaned back in his chair.
With zero shame, he smirked.
“No, Professor,” he said smoothly. “I was just holding onto what’s mine.”
Sharayu whipped her head toward him, eyes wide.
This IDIOT!
Ishita blinked, clearly confused.
Sharayu stammered. “I-It’s not what it looks like “
Ishita narrowed her eyes but said nothing.
Satish, meanwhile, looked completely entertained.
“Professor Ishita, how can I help you?” he asked calmly, as if nothing had just happened.
Sharayu was going to murder him.
Ishita still looked suspicious, but she sighed.
“Principal Sir asked to see you in his office,” she said.
Satish nodded. “Alright. I’ll be there in five minutes.”
Ishita hesitated but finally left the cabin.
The moment the door clicked shut, Sharayu turned and smacked his arm.
“Are you INSANE?!” she whisper-yelled.
Satish laughed, catching her wrist easily.
“Relax, sweetheart,” he teased. “You panicked so cutely.”
Sharayu glared. “I panicked because YOU don’t know how to behave in college!”
He grinned shamelessly.
“Behave?” he echoed, pulling her back toward him. “If you want me to behave, sweetheart… you’ll have to teach me.”
Sharayu pushed him away.
“Ugh, you’re impossible!” she huffed, storming toward the door.
Satish just chuckled to himself.
“And yet, you love me,” he murmured.
Sharayu paused for a fraction of a second before disappearing through the door.
Satish smirked.
Satish had barely settled back into his cabin when a peon knocked on his door.
“Sir, the principal has called for a meeting regarding the upcoming exams,” the peon informed him.
Satish sighed, rubbing his temple. He was already exhausted from the last few days traveling, falling sick, and now dealing with the never-ending responsibilities of being the Head of the Department. But skipping the meeting wasn’t an option.
In the conference room, the principal, along with a few other senior professors, was already seated when Satish entered. He took his usual spot, nodding at the others.
“Ah, Professor Rajvanshi,” the principal greeted. “You’ve had quite an eventful few days, haven’t you?”
Satish gave a polite smile. “It seems so, sir.”
“Good to have you back,” one of the senior professors chimed in. “We have a lot to discuss, especially with the final exams approaching.”
The conversation shifted into detailed discussions about exam schedules, evaluation criteria, and invigilation duties. Satish, despite his fatigue, contributed actively, ensuring that the plans aligned with the department’s requirements.
However, midway through the meeting, his phone vibrated in his pocket. He discreetly checked the screen Sharayu.
He smirked, knowing exactly why she was calling.
“Excuse me,” he said, stepping slightly away from the main table but still in the room.
Answering the call, he kept his voice low. “Miss me already?”
From the other end, her annoyed voice came through. “Why is this meeting taking so long? I’m bored.”
He chuckled. “That’s what happens when you date the HOD, sweetheart.”
“You better finish soon,” she huffed. “I have complaints.”
“Complaints?” He raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
“Yes, first how dare you leave me alone for this long? Second how dare you look so good in a formal coat today? Third I just wanted to call you.”
Satish bit his lip to suppress a laugh. “You really have your priorities set, don’t you?”
“Obviously. Now hurry up.”
Before he could respond, one of the professors cleared his throat. “Everything alright, Professor Rajvanshi?”
Satish smoothly ended the call. “Yes, of course. Just a student with a doubt.”
As he resumed his seat, he couldn’t help but shake his head with a small smirk.
Sharayu was truly something else.
***
Ishita had been watching Sharayu closely ever since she caught that little moment in Satish’s cabin. She wasn’t stupid she had noticed the way Satish held Sharayu, the way he refused to let go even when she entered the room. And now, seeing Sharayu casually sitting with her friends, acting like nothing had happened, Ishita couldn’t resist approaching her.
“Sharayu,” Ishita said, crossing her arms, “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but what exactly was happening in Professor Satish’s cabin earlier?”
Sharayu, who was sipping on her cold coffee, raised an eyebrow but didn’t look fazed. “Earlier?” she asked nonchalantly, tilting her head.
Ishita scoffed. “Don’t play dumb. You were sitting on his lap when I walked in.”
Vrushal and Hriday, who were sitting beside Sharayu, exchanged glances, trying to hold back their laughter. Arohi nudged Rutuja, silently telling her to pay attention because things were about to get interesting.
Sharayu leaned forward, placing her chin on her hand, giving Ishita a slow, knowing smile. “Oh, that?” she drawled. “I dropped my pen, and he was just… holding onto what belongs to him.”
Ishita’s eyes widened. “Excuse me?”
Sharayu feigned innocence, blinking at her. “I said he was just holding onto something precious. You know, things that are… his.”
Ishita stiffened. “Sharayu, I think you should be careful. Professor Satish is your professor, and he’s way beyond your reach.”
At this, Sharayu let out a soft chuckle, tapping her fingers against the table. “You think so?” She tilted her head slightly. “That’s interesting. But you see, some things in life… no matter how far they seem, they always find their way into your arms. You just have to be the one they choose to hold on to.”
Ishita frowned, trying to decipher her words. “Are you trying to say something?”
Sharayu smiled, leaning in just enough to make Ishita uncomfortable. “Oh, nothing much. Just that some people waste their time running after things that will never be theirs while the one who already has it… doesn’t need to chase at all.”
Hriday let out a cough to cover his laugh, while Arohi nearly choked on her drink.
Ishita narrowed her eyes. “You should stay in your limits, Sharayu.”
Sharayu leaned back, stretching her arms. “Limits are funny, aren’t they? They exist only for those who follow them.” She stood up, picking up her bag. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have something… no, someone waiting for me.”
With that, she walked away, leaving Ishita standing there, fuming but confused, as Rutuja and the others burst into laughter.
As soon as Sharayu walked away from Ishita, a smirk tugging at her lips, her friends erupted into laughter.
“Sharayu, oh my god!” Arohi gasped, clutching her stomach. “That was savage!”
“I swear, did you see Ishita’s face? She looked like she was trying to solve a math equation but kept getting the wrong answer!” Hriday added, shaking his head.
Rutuja nudged her playfully. “So, belonging to him, huh? Holding onto something precious? Damn, girl, are we missing out on some spicy details?”
Sharayu rolled her eyes, trying to keep a straight face. “You all are impossible.”
“But not as impossible as you and Sir, apparently,” Vrushal teased, wiggling his eyebrows. “So, tell us, tell us exactly how much do you belong to him?”
“Shut up!” Sharayu hissed, swatting his arm, her face warming up.
Arohi grinned. “No, but seriously, how long do you think it’ll take for Ishita to finally get it? That was the most indirect but very direct claim you just made on Satish Sir.”
“She won’t understand anytime soon,” Sharayu replied, sipping on her cold coffee. “And even if she does, it’s not my problem.”
Hriday let out a low whistle. “Damn, we love this version of Sharayu bold, fearless, and completely owning her man!”
Sharayu just shook her head, laughing at their antics, but deep down, she felt warm. It wasn’t like she had planned on making such a bold statement, but when Ishita started poking around, something in her had snapped. She wasn’t going to let anyone, especially Ishita, try to create a wedge between her and Satish.
After a little more teasing, laughter, and playful nudging, the group finally dispersed as everyone had things to do. Sharayu glanced at the time and realized it was getting late her mother would start asking questions if she didn’t get home soon.
She made her way to the bus stop, her thoughts drifting to Satish. Did he eat properly today? Was he still feeling weak?
Just as she was waiting for the bus, her phone buzzed.
Satish: Did you have fun making indirect claims on me in front of Ishita?
Her eyes widened. What the..How did he know?
Sharayu: Who told you?
Satish: Oh, so you did do it?
She groaned, realizing she had fallen into his trap.
Sharayu: Forget it!
Satish: Never. You basically told her I’m yours. You should’ve just worn a sign that says ‘Satish Rajvanshi’s Girl.’
Her cheeks flamed.
Sharayu: You’re impossible!
Satish: And you love me for it.
She didn’t reply to that, but her lips curved into a smile.
By the time she reached home, she was mentally preparing herself for any questions from her mother. As she stepped inside, her mother, Ranjana, was already in the living room, looking at her with sharp eyes.
“Why so late, Sharayu?”
Sharayu forced a casual smile. “I was with my friends, Aai. You know how they are once they start talking, time just flies.”
Kalyani sighed but didn’t push further. “Go freshen up. Dinner will be ready soon.”
Sharayu nodded, relieved that the topic ended there.
As she went to her room, she pulled out her phone again, her fingers hesitating over the screen. Then, finally, she typed:
Sharayu: Did you eat properly?
A response came almost immediately.
Satish: Are you asking as my student, my nurse, or my girlfriend?
She rolled her eyes.
Sharayu: Eat your food, or I’ll show up and make you eat it myself.
Satish: Now that’s an idea I wouldn’t mind.
She huffed, but she was smiling. This man was going to be the death of her.
***
Sharayu was buzzing with excitement as she added her friends and Satish’s family to a secret group chat for planning his surprise birthday.
“Operation Professor’s Surprise” Rutuja had dramatically named the group, making everyone chuckle.
Vanya was the most enthusiastic, spamming the chat with ideas. “We need something grand! Bhai should be shocked!”
Daksh, on the other hand, was more practical. “Let’s not forget, he’s going to get suspicious if we act weird.”
Sharayu, biting her lip, typed: “We have to keep it a complete secret. No hints, no slip-ups!”
Hriday added, “He’s smart, Sharayu. If you start behaving all mushy-mushy, he’ll know something’s up.”
Rutuja chimed in, “And you don’t even realize when you do it, Sharayu. It’s like second nature now!”
Sharayu groaned. “Okay, okay! I’ll act normal. Now focus! What do we do?”
Gayatri suggested a fancy dinner at a private venue, while Arohi pitched the idea of decorating Satish’s house.
Vanya, however, smirked. “I have the best idea, but let’s discuss it in person. Bhai cannot get even a whiff of this.”
As the planning continued, excitement grew. The countdown had officially begun, and Sharayu was determined to make this birthday unforgettable for Satish.
The group had officially declared “Mission: Professor’s Surprise” a top-secret operation. And the first step? Acting like they had completely forgotten his birthday.
It was Vanya’s brilliant idea. “Bhai is too smart. If we act weird, he’ll figure out something is up. So let’s do the opposite pretend we don’t even remember!”
Sharayu hesitated. “But won’t he feel bad?”
Daksh smirked. “That’s the point, bhabhi. He’ll be grumbling, sulking basically acting like a kid whose candy got stolen.”
Hriday laughed. “He’s already too pampered by you. One day of ignoring won’t hurt.”
Sharayu sighed. “Fine, but if he gets too upset, I’ll give him a hint.”
Vanya gasped dramatically. “No! No hints! You’re the weakest link in this plan, bhabhi. You’ll crack first!”
Rutuja nodded. “Yep. You’ll melt the moment he pouts at you.”
“I will not!” Sharayu crossed her arms.
“Challenge accepted!” Daksh grinned. “Let’s see who breaks first we or you.”
As the days passed, everyone continued their normal routines, carefully avoiding any mention of Satish’s birthday. Sharayu, however, was struggling the most.
Satish had noticed that something was off. His usually attentive girlfriend wasn’t showering him with affection like usual. No teasing texts, no random “I miss you” messages, and worst of all she wasn’t staring at him with that dreamy look during lectures!
One afternoon, he casually leaned against Sharayu’s desk and asked, “You seem distracted these days, Miss Sharayu.”
Sharayu, pretending to be busy with her notes, mumbled, “Hmm? No, I’m fine, sir.”
Satish narrowed his eyes. “You sure? You’re not sick or something?”
She faked a yawn. “Just tired. College stress, you know?”
He frowned. “Hmm.”
Sharayu knew that ‘hmm.’ It was his “I don’t believe you, but I’ll let it slide for now” sound.
***
Daksh and Vanya were having way too much fun with this.
At dinner one night, Satish casually mentioned, “So… anything special happening this week?”
Vanya, without missing a beat, responded, “Nope. Just the usual.”
Daksh nodded. “Nothing important at all.”
Satish squinted at them. “Really? Nothing?”
His mother, Ridhima, hiding her smile, played along. “What do you mean? Is there something we should know?”
Satish opened his mouth but then shut it. Are they seriously forgetting my birthday?
Satish was getting grumpier by the hour.
He had subtly hinted about birthdays in front of Sharayu, but she only nodded absentmindedly. He even brought up an imaginary friend’s birthday just to see if she’d react. Nothing.
“What kind of girlfriend forgets her boyfriend’s birthday?” He muttered under his breath.
At college, he tried one last attempt.
“Miss Sharayu, what’s tomorrow’s date?”
She blinked. “Umm… the 13th?”
“And?”
“And… nothing?” She feigned innocence.
Satish clenched his jaw. “Unbelievable.”
“What?” She tilted her head.
“Nothing, Miss Sharayu. Absolutely nothing.” He turned and walked away.
Behind him, Sharayu bit her lip to stop herself from laughing. Oh, he was mad.
Rajvanshi House – Morning
Satish woke up, stretched, and checked his phone. Nothing.
No messages. No missed calls. Not even from Sharayu.
He frowned. “Maybe they’re planning something secretly,” he thought, but a tiny voice in his head whispered, “Or maybe they actually forgot.”
Still hopeful, he walked out of his room, expecting at least his mother to greet him with a warm “Happy Birthday, beta.”
But instead
“Bhai, pass me the butter,” Vanya said casually as she spread jam on her toast.
“Satish, are you leaving early for college today?” His father asked, flipping through the newspaper.
His grandmother sighed. “These days, young people don’t value traditions. I was just telling Ridhima, we should do a puja for good luck. Right, bahu?”
His mother nodded. “Yes, Maa ji, we should plan it next month.”
Satish’s eyebrow twitched. They were talking about random things but NOT his birthday.
He cleared his throat. “Good morning, everyone.”
“Hmm? Morning, beta.” His mother smiled as she sipped her tea.
That was it? Just “morning, beta” and not “Happy Birthday, beta”??
Daksh, the ultimate drama king, was sitting right next to him, munching on a sandwich like today was just another normal day. Oh, he was enjoying this way too much.
Satish took a deep breath and tried again. “So…anything special today?”
His father barely looked up from his newspaper. “Why? Is something happening?”
“No reason.” Satish gritted his teeth.
“Bhai, don’t forget, we have to go shopping this weekend.” Vanya added.
Satish narrowed his eyes. “Vanya, you sure you don’t have anything else to say?”
She tilted her head. “Umm… nope! Just that you should eat your breakfast fast or you’ll be late for college.”
“Unbelievable,” he muttered.
Daksh finally spoke. “Bhai, you seem irritated. Did something happen? Any tax issues?” He smirked.
“Shut up, Daksh.”
Satish stormed back to his room, shutting the door harder than necessary.
“They actually forgot! How could they forget my birthday? My own family?!”
He looked at his phone again.
Still no messages from Sharayu.
Now he was officially pissed.
“At least she could’ve remembered! Miss ‘I care about you more than anything’ suddenly has amnesia today?”
He grabbed his towel and marched to the bathroom, muttering under his breath.
“Fine. If no one cares, I don’t care either. I’ll just get ready and go to college. Like it’s just another day. Because apparently it IS just another day!”
Satish stood in front of the mirror, staring at his reflection with a scowl. His fingers hovered over the wardrobe handle, pulling it open with more force than necessary. He scanned through his collection of shirts and then his eyes caught it. The lavender shirt.
It was something Sharayu had once told him was her favorite color.
He hadn’t worn it in a while, but today, despite his frustration, something about it felt right. Maybe it was the quiet rebellion against the quiet forgetfulness of his family, or perhaps it was a subconscious desire to keep her close, even when she wasn’t physically there. He could almost imagine her smile when she’d see him in it again.
“Why not?” He muttered to himself.
He slipped it on, feeling the soft fabric hug his body, the light, calming color making him feel more grounded. There was something peaceful about the lavender shade, a sort of serenity that balanced out the chaos brewing in his mind.
But as he buttoned up the shirt, his thoughts kept wandering to Sharayu. It had been a while since they had spent time together, and he’d really hoped today would be different special even.
But no. His family was acting like his birthday was just another day. And Sharayu… well, she was nowhere to be found. He hadn’t even received a simple “Happy Birthday” text.
The thought stung more than he wanted to admit.
“It’s fine,” he told himself. “She’s probably busy.”
He ran his fingers through his hair, smoothing it back, and glanced at the clock.
“Okay, enough sulking. Time to go to college.”
As he straightened his collar, he realized something.
Maybe, just maybe, he could find some way to surprise her let her know how much she meant to him, despite everything.
As Satish made his way downstairs, his family was already at the breakfast table, acting as if nothing was unusual. His mother, father, grandmother, and even Daksh and Vanya were chatting about random things completely ignoring the fact that it was his birthday.
“You look nice today, Satish,” his mother said absentmindedly as she poured herself some tea.
“Thanks, Maa.” He gritted his teeth, hoping for a sign that maybe just maybe someone would wish him a happy birthday.
“Satish, have you finished all the preparations for the exams?” His father asked, still engrossed in his newspaper.
“Of course, Dad,” Satish muttered, trying to keep his irritation in check.
Just as he was about to take a seat, Daksh, with his usual smirk, piped up.
“Bhai, are you okay? You look like you’ve been up all night. Some tax calculations keeping you awake?”
Satish shot him a glare, but Daksh only chuckled.
“Oh, it’s nothing. Just wondering if I should buy myself a cake,” Satish muttered under his breath.
“A cake?” Vanya perked up. “What’s the occasion? You know, no one would even know what to buy you, right?”
“What do you mean by that?” Satish raised an eyebrow, but his sister’s sarcastic tone was starting to irk him more.
“Well, you’ve been so quiet today. Everyone’s wondering if something’s up,” she said, all innocent-looking.
Satish stood there for a moment, staring at them all, his eyes flicking from one family member to the next. It was as if he were invisible.
Finally, his patience broke, and he just shook his head, muttering a sarcastic, “No one cares. It’s fine. I’ll just go to college.”
Before anyone could say anything else, he stormed out, leaving his family behind to gossip and murmur quietly to themselves.
***
As Satish drove to college, the irritation was still burning inside him. He could feel it simmering, but he didn’t know how to shake it off.
The campus was busy as usual students hustling around, professors exchanging greetings but Satish couldn’t shake the feeling of being forgotten. Not just by his family, but by Sharayu.
Where was she? Why hadn’t she texted?
Was she too busy with her friends? Or did she just forget?
His thoughts were interrupted when he arrived at his office, slinging his bag over his shoulder. He sat at his desk, running his hands through his hair as he stared at the pile of papers in front of him.
A knock at the door broke his concentration.
“Sir, the students are waiting for you for the lecture.” It was one of the office assistants, reminding him that the show must go on, no matter what.
Satish took a deep breath.
“Yeah, yeah. I’ll be right there.”
But as he stood up and prepared to leave, his phone buzzed. He quickly grabbed it, hoping it was from Sharayu.
It wasn’t.
It was from his mom.
The message read: “Satish, don’t forget the puja today. We’re all going to the temple this evening. And don’t be upset about anything, okay? Love you.”
He let out a long sigh, feeling a little better. His mom had at least remembered… sort of. But still, the sting of being ignored all day lingered.
“Maybe things will be better tonight,” he muttered to himself, walking out of his office.
But for now, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that this birthday wasn’t turning out the way he had hoped.
As he entered the classroom, his eyes scanned the crowd of students, and the first thing he saw was Sharayu walking in, completely unaware of how she was about to change everything.
Satish entered the lecture hall, his expression unreadable, his posture straight but slightly stiff. His lavender shirt Sharayu’s favorite color should have at least gotten a reaction out of her, but nothing.
No stolen glances, no secret smiles, no teasing remarks.
She didn’t wish him.
Not even a hint that she remembered.
Instead, she was sitting with Rutuja, flipping through her notes as if today was just another ordinary day.
His fingers curled into a fist as he forced himself to focus. He had to teach.
“Fine. If she wants to act like this, then so be it.”
He placed his books on the desk and turned toward the class. His deep voice echoed across the room as he spoke.
“Today, we’ll discuss exemptions under GST. These exemptions reduce the tax burden on certain goods and services, ensuring that essential commodities remain affordable.”
He grabbed a piece of chalk and started writing on the board, his mind screaming, “No one cares about my birthday!”
The class remained silent, attentive. Even Sharayu sat still, jotting down notes, completely oblivious to his inner turmoil.
But Satish was not in the mood to let things slide.
He turned toward the students, crossing his arms. “Can anyone tell me why exemptions are necessary in a taxation system?”
A few hands shot up, but his gaze unintentionally landed on Sharayu.
“You. Answer.” His voice was firm, almost challenging.
Sharayu blinked, surprised. It wasn’t unusual for him to ask her questions, but today, his tone was sharper.
She cleared her throat. “Exemptions ensure that essential goods and services, like healthcare and education, remain accessible to the general public. It prevents excessive tax burdens on lower-income groups and encourages economic growth.”
Satish held her gaze for a second longer than necessary before nodding. “Correct. But there’s more to it.”
He turned back to the board, trying to focus on his lecture.
But it was not working.
Sharayu could feel that something was off.
His voice was a little too sharp.
His explanations were too precise, like he was venting his frustration through his teaching.
And he wasn’t looking at her. Not properly.
She frowned, tapping her pen against her notebook.
“Why is he acting like this?”
Meanwhile, Satish continued.
“Certain exemptions apply to agricultural products, healthcare services, and educational institutions. For example, services provided by government schools and colleges are exempt under GST. Can someone give me another example?”
A student answered, but Satish barely paid attention. His eyes flickered to Sharayu again.
Still nothing.
No stolen glance. No soft smile.
Not even a hint of acknowledgment.
His jaw tightened. “Fine. You want to act like you forgot? Let’s see how long you can keep it up.”
After 45 minutes of rigorous teaching, Satish slammed his book shut.
“That’s all for today. Go through these exemptions, and we’ll have a discussion in the next class.”
The students started packing up, murmuring among themselves.
Satish leaned against his desk, watching Sharayu closely as she gathered her books.
And still not a word.
She walked right past him as if he was just another professor.
His fingers curled around the edge of his desk, his irritation bubbling beneath the surface.
“This is not over, Sharayu.”
Satish walked out of the lecture hall, his mood sour. The moment he stepped into the corridor, he half-expected someone anyone to suddenly jump out and yell “Happy Birthday, Sir!”
But nothing.
The students just went about their business. His colleagues passed him by with casual nods. Even Ishita, who usually never missed a chance to flirt, simply greeted him with a professional “Good morning, Satish.”
He clenched his jaw.
“What the hell is going on?”
By the time he reached his cabin, his irritation had boiled over. He threw his books onto his desk, ran a hand through his hair, and let out a deep sigh.
“Maybe they’ll wish me later. Maybe there’s some surprise waiting at home.”
But the thought did not ease his frustration.
He was not used to being ignored. Especially not by Sharayu.
Just then, there was a knock at the door.
For a split second, his mood lifted.
“Maybe she finally came to wish me.”
But no. It was a random student asking for assignment clarifications.
Satish wanted to scream.
He answered the student mechanically, barely paying attention, before dismissing him.
“That’s it. I’m done. If she won’t acknowledge me, I won’t acknowledge her either.”
During the lunch break, Satish walked into the cafeteria, determined to ignore Sharayu just as she was ignoring him.
But the moment he saw her sitting with her friends, casually chatting away as if today was just another ordinary day, his frustration tripled.
She was eating her sandwich, her eyes bright, her laughter soft, as if she wasn’t making him suffer.
“Oh, you want to play this game? Fine. Let’s see how you handle it.”
With a smirk, Satish walked straight past her table without even looking at her.
Instead, he walked toward Ishita, who was sitting alone at another table, scrolling through her phone.
“Mind if I join you?” He asked, his voice extra smooth.
Ishita looked up, surprised. “Oh? Sure, of course.”
Sharayu, who had been mid-bite, froze.
Her fingers tightened around her sandwich.
Her friends exchanged glances.
Gayatri whispered, “Uh-oh, he’s playing dirty.”
Rutuja bit back a laugh. “Game on.”
Meanwhile, Satish casually pulled out the chair opposite Ishita, sitting down with an air of complete indifference.
“How’s your day going?” He asked Ishita, leaning forward slightly, his voice all polite charm.
Ishita blinked, clearly flustered.
“Uh, good. Just busy with exam preparations. You know how it is.”
Satish nodded thoughtfully, stealing a quick glance toward Sharayu who was now poking her sandwich aggressively, her jaw clenched.
“Ah, so you do care.”
He smirked internally.
Sharayu’s friends were muffling their laughter at her reaction.
“You okay?” Rutuja teased, nudging her.
“What? I don’t care.” Sharayu muttered, biting into her sandwich aggressively.
Satish, meanwhile, pretended to be deeply interested in whatever Ishita was saying, even though he had no idea what she was talking about.
His entire focus was on the girl gritting her teeth at the other table.
“That’s right, sweetheart. You started this. Now let’s see if you can handle it.”
Sharayu took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay calm. She knew exactly what Satish was trying to do.
“Oh, so now he wants to play dirty?”
She smirked internally but kept her face completely neutral.
Instead of reacting, she took a deliberate bite of her sandwich and turned back to Rutuja, continuing their random conversation about a movie they had watched recently.
“The hero was such a red flag,” Rutuja was saying dramatically. “Toxic, arrogant, and full of himself.”
“Hmm,” Sharayu hummed, loudly enough for Satish to hear. “Sounds familiar.”
Her friends choked back laughter.
Satish, who had just taken a sip of his coffee, almost choked.
He narrowed his eyes at her.
Sharayu, on the other hand, pretended not to notice. She continued talking, even throwing in an extra sweet laugh, just to piss him off more.
“Two can play this game, Professor.”
Satish clenched his jaw.
“Why isn’t she reacting?”
She was supposed to get jealous. She was supposed to glare at him, maybe even drag him away from Ishita in a fit of possessiveness.
But no.
She was just sitting there, ignoring him, ignoring his birthday, ignoring everything.
“Unbelievable.”
Meanwhile, Ishita was still talking, but Satish wasn’t even listening anymore. His eyes kept drifting to Sharayu, who was casually scrolling through her phone now, looking completely unbothered.
“Satish?” Ishita waved a hand in front of him. “Are you even listening?”
“Huh?” He blinked, turning back to her. “Uh… yeah. Of course.”
“Then what did I just say?”
Satish: “…”
Ishita sighed, rolling her eyes. “Forget it.”
Satish groaned internally.
“This is the worst birthday ever.”
By the time lunch was over, Satish had officially lost his patience.
“Fine. She wants to ignore me? Let’s see how long she can keep it up.”
As everyone started leaving the cafeteria, Satish deliberately walked past Sharayu, his shoulder brushing hers.
She barely reacted.
Instead, she turned to Rutuja. “Hey, should we get some ice cream after college?”
Satish’s eye twitched.
“Ice cream? That’s what you’re thinking about right now?”
He exhaled sharply and walked away, feeling defeated for the first time that day.
Before heading back to class, Satish glanced at his phone.
No messages from Sharayu.
Not even a simple “Happy Birthday.”
His frustration peaked.
“That’s it. I give up.”
Satish sat in his office, arms crossed, glaring at his laptop screen. The numbers on the screen meant nothing to him right now. He was supposed to be grading papers, but instead, he was thinking about her.
His jaw clenched.
It was past noon now.
And still nothing.
Not a single “Happy Birthday” from his Sharayu.
“Is she really not going to wish me?”
His fingers tapped impatiently on the desk as he stared at the door, waiting.
And right on cue there was a knock.
He sat up, quickly straightening his lavender shirt.
“Finally.”
Sharayu peeked inside before stepping in, her face calm, her expression completely neutral.
“Stay strong, Sharayu.”
She was starting to feel guilty now, but she couldn’t break character. The plan was to pretend they had all forgotten his birthday, and she had to commit.
“You called, Sir?” she said, voice steady.
Satish narrowed his eyes at her.
“Sir?”
Oh, so she was really going to act this formal with him today?
He exhaled sharply. “Close the door.”
Sharayu swallowed.
His voice was low, commanding, irritated.
But she didn’t let it show. She turned, slowly closing the door behind her.
Satish leaned back in his chair, studying her.
She looked perfectly normal. Not a hint of guilt or hesitation on her face.
He ran a hand through his hair.
“I need to push her.”
“Where were you planning to go after college?” he asked, tilting his head.
“Home,” she said smoothly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Why?”
Satish gave her a mocking smirk. “No special plans?”
Sharayu pretended to think. “Hmm… nope.”
That was it.
Satish let out a dry chuckle and stood up, walking toward her.
She didn’t move.
He stepped closer.
And closer.
Until she was pressed against the door.
Sharayu’s breath hitched.
“Sir “
“Not even a single message?” he murmured, his voice deep. “Nothing at all?”
She felt his irritation, his disappointment.
She licked her lips, suddenly nervous.
But she held her ground. “Why? Were you expecting something?”
Satish let out a low laugh, his hands coming up to rest on the door behind her, trapping her between his arms.
“Do I look like a fool to you?” he asked, voice laced with frustration. “Or do you really think I wouldn’t notice?”
Sharayu bit her lip.
“Stay strong.”
She lifted her chin slightly. “Notice what?”
Satish let out a slow exhale, his lips twitching into a smirk.
“You’re really enjoying this, aren’t you?”
Sharayu shrugged, trying to keep her face neutral.
Satish leaned in closer, his breath fanning over her cheek.
“You can pretend all you want, Sharayu.” His voice dropped to a whisper. “But I know you feel guilty.”
Her heart skipped.
Because he was right.
She was starting to feel really bad.
“Maybe I should just wish him now…”
No.
She couldn’t break.
She had to hold on just a little longer.
So instead, she exhaled slowly, forcing herself to smirk. “If you already know that, why are you still complaining?”
Satish chuckled darkly, shaking his head. “You’re impossible.”
Sharayu smiled sweetly. “I try.”
He huffed a laugh, stepping back slightly, but his eyes never left hers.
“You’re really going home?”
She nodded. “Yes.”
Satish ran his tongue over his teeth, clearly annoyed.
Then, suddenly
He reached out and grabbed her wrist.
Sharayu gasped. “Sir”
His thumb grazed over her pulse. “You don’t want to stay for a little longer?”
Her throat went dry.
She knew what he was doing.
Trying to make her slip.
Trying to make her confess.
She swallowed hard, then forced herself to smile. “Nope. I’ll see you later, Sir.”
And before he could say another word, she pulled her hand away and walked out.
Leaving Satish completely frustrated.
As soon as Sharayu stepped out of Satish’s office, she rushed straight to his house.
She had no time to waste.
The moment she arrived, she was greeted by Vanya and Daksh, who were already grinning knowingly.
“So?” Vanya smirked. “How mad is he?”
Sharayu let out a dramatic sigh, throwing her bag onto the couch. “Mad? That man is fuming. He was looking at me like he wanted to throw me out of the college.”
Daksh snickered. “Oof, poor bhai. He really thought you forgot?”
“Completely.” Sharayu grinned mischievously. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him this irritated.”
Vanya clapped her hands. “Perfect. This is exactly what we wanted. Now, let’s get to work!”
Operation: Birthday Surprise Begins
Sharayu made her way to the kitchen, where Ridhima was already waiting with an apron in hand.
Ridhima turned to her with a teasing smile. “So, finally decided to show some mercy on my son?”
Sharayu pouted. “Aunty, I had to! He was looking like a kid who got his candy stolen.”
Ridhima chuckled, handing her a chopping board. “Then let’s make it up to him. You’re making his favorite dishes today.”
Sharayu’s eyes widened. “Me?”
“Yes, you. You’re his favorite person. It’s only fair you cook his favorite food.”
Sharayu groaned, tying the apron around her waist. “Fine, but you’re supervising. I don’t want to accidentally poison him.”
Vanya leaned against the counter. “That would be tragic. Imagine bhai collapses after taking the first bite. What a birthday gift!”
Daksh laughed. “Legendary.”
Sharayu glared at them. “You two are useless. Go do the decorations!”
“Bossy much?” Vanya rolled her eyes but grabbed the decoration supplies. “Fine, but I want extra cake for all this hard work.”
“Go, before I make sure you get no cake at all!”
With Ridhima’s help, Sharayu started preparing Satish’s favorite dishes.
She carefully chopped vegetables, mixed spices, and occasionally whined when the oil splattered on her hand.
“Aunty, I swear, cooking is not my thing.”
Ridhima chuckled. “Then how do you plan to feed Satish after marriage?”
Sharayu almost dropped the spoon.
“M-MARRIAGE?!” she squeaked.
Ridhima raised an eyebrow. “Well, isn’t that where this is going?”
Sharayu’s face turned bright red. “Aunty!”
Ridhima laughed, patting her head. “Relax, beta. But knowing my son, he’s probably already planned everything in his head.”
Sharayu groaned, stirring the curry furiously. “He needs to plan how to calm down first. He was acting like the world betrayed him.”
Ridhima smiled warmly. “That’s because he loves you too much. You’re the most important part of his life.”
Sharayu paused for a moment, feeling a strange warmth bloom in her chest.
She knew Satish loved her.
But hearing it from his mother made it feel even more real.
She shook her head, snapping out of it. “Okay! Less talking, more cooking. We need everything to be ready before he comes home!”
Ridhima chuckled. “Yes, yes. Let’s hurry.”
And so, Operation: Birthday Surprise continued.
With Sharayu cooking, Vanya and Daksh decorating, and Ridhima keeping everyone in check
The Rajvanshi house was getting ready for one unforgettable night.
The kitchen smelled heavenly. Aromas of spices, fresh herbs, and rich gravies filled the air as Sharayu, under Ridhima’s guidance, prepared Satish’s favorite dishes.
At the center of the feast was a steaming hot plate of Paneer Makhani, with soft, juicy paneer cubes drowning in a velvety, tomato-based gravy rich with butter and cream.
Next to it was a fragrant dish of Veg Biryani, each grain of basmati rice perfectly cooked, infused with saffron, and mixed with colorful bell peppers, carrots, and peas. A small bowl of cool, refreshing raita sat beside it, garnished with roasted cumin and fresh coriander.
Sharayu had also insisted on making Dal Tadka, a simple yet comforting dish of yellow lentils, tempered with ghee, garlic, and mustard seeds. The aroma of the sizzling tadka made Daksh sneak into the kitchen only for Ridhima to shoo him away.
Crispy, golden naan and soft tandoori rotis were stacked in a basket, ready to be served. On the side, there were stuffed aloo parathas, glistening with butter, a special request from Vanya.
For snacks, they had crispy paneer tikka, skewered with onions and capsicum, roasted to perfection, along with Hara Bhara Kabab a delightful mix of spinach, peas, and potatoes, shallow-fried until golden.
And for the grand finale a homemade Kesar Pista Kheer, thick, creamy, and filled with saffron-soaked richness, topped with slivers of almonds and pistachios.
While Sharayu was busy cooking up a storm, Vanya and Daksh had transformed the Rajvanshi house into a dreamy birthday paradise.
The living room was adorned with black and golden balloons. Some balloons had “Happy Birthday, Bhai!” and “We Love You, Professor Rajvanshi!” written on them, thanks to Vanya’s extra effort.
A giant ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY SATISH’ banner hung near the entrance, with golden fairy lights twinkling around it.
The dining table was set elegantly, with white and gold dinnerware, and fresh flowers lilies and orchids placed in a crystal vase as the centerpiece.
Near the sofa, they had created a small photo corner, featuring some of Satish’s childhood pictures, embarrassing teenage photos, and recent ones with family and friends.
A three-tier chocolate truffle cake sat proudly on the coffee table, waiting to be cut.
Vanya had also arranged a “SURPRISE!” confetti popper for when Satish walked in ensuring that the moment he entered, he’d be greeted with a shower of colorful confetti and loud cheers.
Everything was perfectly set.
All they had to do now was wait for the birthday boy to arrive.
Satish sat in his cabin, staring at his phone, fingers hovering over the keyboard. His irritation from the whole day hadn’t faded not one person had wished him. Not at home. Not in college. Not even Sharayu.
He let out a frustrated sigh and finally texted her:
Satish: Reached home safely?
He tapped his fingers on the desk, waiting, scowling at the screen.
A few seconds later, her reply popped up:
Sharayu: Yes, sir. Reached home safely.
He stared at the message. That’s it? No follow-up? No teasing? No long rant? Nothing?!
He clenched his jaw. The woman who would usually bombard him with messages, emojis, and unnecessary banter was suddenly so formal and cold.
Satish: Hmm.
Sharayu saw the message and bit her lip to stop herself from laughing. Oh, he was sulking. She knew it.
Just then, Vanya peeked over her shoulder and whispered, “Bhabhi, he messaged, didn’t he? What did he say?”
Sharayu showed her the chat, and Vanya snorted. “Bhai is such a kid! He’s probably fuming in his office right now.”
Daksh, sitting nearby, smirked. “Text him something confusing. Make him more mad.”
Sharayu grinned mischievously and typed:
Sharayu: Sir, you should go home early today. It’s just another normal day, no?
She hit send and immediately burst out laughing, watching the ‘typing…’ disappear and reappear repeatedly.
Meanwhile, at college, Satish ran a hand through his hair, glaring at his phone.
“Just another normal day?!”
His patience snapped. He typed back:
Satish: Are you trying to piss me off on purpose?
Sharayu saw the message and covered her mouth, giggling.
Sharayu: Of course not, sir. I’m just being practical.
Satish’s eyes narrowed. Practical?! This woman was playing with fire.
Just as he was about to call her, he got a text from his mother.
Ridhima: Beta, come home early today. I made something special for dinner.
Satish rolled his eyes. “Yeah right. Probably another boring daal-roti.”
Satish stepped out of his car, his brows furrowed as he stared at his house. Pitch dark. Not a single light on.
“What the hell?” he muttered, checking the time on his watch. It wasn’t that late. His mother had told him to come home early. Why did the house look abandoned?
He unlocked the front door and stepped inside, expecting the usual chaos his grandmother scolding Daksh, his father reading the newspaper, his mother giving orders to the house help, and Vanya shrieking over something stupid.
Instead…
Silence.
Darkness.
His frown deepened. Did they all go out somewhere? He closed the door behind him and walked further inside.
“Maa? Dad? Dadi? Daksh? Vanya?” He called out, his voice echoing.
Nothing.
“At least they could have left a note,” he mumbled, loosening the first two buttons of his lavender shirt in frustration. The whole day had been a disaster.
No one had wished him. Not at home, not at college. Not even Sharayu.
That stung the most.
“I swear, if they actually forgot my birthday, I’m never letting them hear the end of it.”
As he moved towards the living room, he saw a faint flicker of light coming from inside.
His heart pounded a little.
He stepped in
“SURPRISEEEEEEE!!!”
The lights flashed on. A loud blast of confetti filled the air, and before he could process anything, a loud cheer erupted from all around him.
His eyes widened.
The entire Rajvanshi family stood there his parents, his grandmother, Daksh, and Vanya all grinning mischievously.
The living room was beautifully decorated fairy lights twinkled along the walls, balloons of different shades were floating, and in the center, a huge table with his favorite food was set up.
His grandmother, Dadi, walked up to him first, cupping his face. “Arey, Satish beta, did you think your Dadi would forget your birthday?”
He chuckled, feeling a rush of warmth. “You all really had me fooled, Dadi.”
His mother, Ridhima, playfully hit his arm. “Didn’t I tell you I made something special for dinner?”
His father, usually the calmest, smirked. “You looked ready to murder someone outside.”
Daksh and Vanya burst out laughing.
“Bhai, you should have seen your face!” Daksh cackled.
Satish shook his head in disbelief. His irritation from the entire day started fading, replaced by a deep sense of happiness.
But then…
Something felt missing.
His eyes subconsciously searched the room. Everyone was there. But not the one person he wanted to see the most.
His throat went dry.
Sharayu.
Would this birthday even be complete without her?
Before he could stop himself, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. “This would have been the best birthday ever… if she was here.”
And then
“Missing me, Professor?”
His breath hitched.
That voice.
That sweet yet smug voice he could recognize anywhere.
He whirled around.
And there she was.
Sharayu.
Standing at the entrance of the living room, arms crossed, wearing a stunning black dress that made his heart race. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, and her lips curved into that teasing smile she knew drove him crazy.
His heart clenched in relief.
“You little..”, he started, but before he could finish, Vanya pushed her forward.
“Bhabhi, go to him! Bhai was about to cry.”
Satish glared at Vanya. “Shut up, Vanya.”
Sharayu chuckled and walked up to him, her hands slipping into his. She leaned in closer, her breath warm against his cheek.
“Happy birthday, Satish.”
After the grand surprise, Satish had gone upstairs to freshen up. The lingering warmth in his chest refused to fade. Sharayu had planned everything for him.
And now, he was about to experience another tradition she brought into his life.
When he descended the stairs, everyone was already waiting. His family stood near the large living room, where a beautifully arranged silver thali with kumkum, rice, a lit diya, and sweets was kept. The air was thick with the rich aroma of ghee and sandalwood.
Satish raised a brow. “What’s all this?”
Sharayu, standing beside his grandmother, smiled mischievously. “A Maharashtrian tradition, Professor. We do an ‘Aukshan’ for the birthday person.”
“Aarti on my birthday?” He looked at his family, who were all in on it, smiling. Even his father, the most serious of them all, nodded in approval.
“She planned this,” his mother, Ridhima, whispered with a proud smile. “We never did it before, but Sharayu suggested it… and we all loved the idea.”
Satish’s gaze flickered to Sharayu. She did all this? For him?
His heart clenched, but before he could say anything, Dadi stepped forward.
His Dadi was first. She dipped her finger in kumkum and pressed a red tilak on his forehead.
“Jeetey raho, beta,” she said warmly, throwing rice grains gently over his head as a sign of blessings.
She took a gold ring, circling it before his face three times, warding off any evil eye. The diya flickered as she performed five rounds of the aarti, chanting blessings softly.
She finally picked up a piece of his favorite mithai Besan Ladoo and fed it to him with a motherly smile.
Satish, touched, bent down to touch her feet, but Dadi cupped his face instead. “Bas, bas… Be happy.”
His mother was next.
She pressed another tilak on his forehead, her fingers lingering, eyes soft with motherly affection.
As she sprinkled the rice on his head, she murmured, “No matter how old you grow, you’ll always be my little boy.”
He smiled. “Maa…”
She circled the gold ring around him three times, her lips moving in silent prayers.
Then, she performed the five aarti rounds, her voice humming softly along with the diya’s flame.
Finally, she fed him a piece of Kaju Katli.
“Eat well and rest properly, Satish,” she said. “And don’t you dare skip your meals!”
He chuckled. “Yes, Maa.”
Vanya stepped forward next.
She grinned as she smeared the tilak a little too much, making it a big dot.
“Vanya!” Satish glared.
“Arrey, bhai, aapke liye toh extra blessings,” she teased, throwing a handful of rice with too much enthusiasm, making some fall in his hair.
“What the hell? ”, shook his head while everyone laughed.
She did the gold ring ritual, moving it extra slowly to annoy him.
Finally, as she performed the aarti, she kept giggling.
“Stop laughing!” he hissed.
“Sorry, bhai,” she smirked, feeding him a piece of Gulab Jamun. “But this is fun!”
When Sharayu stepped forward, the air changed.
Satish stiffened.
Her hands trembled slightly as she dipped her fingers into the kumkum. Unlike the others, she took her time, staring into his eyes as she pressed the tilak on his forehead.
Her fingertips lingered on his skin for a heartbeat too long.
Satish swallowed.
Then, she took the rice.
Instead of simply throwing it, she placed a few grains on his head gently, as if placing stars on the night sky.
His breath hitched.
Next, she picked up the gold ring.
Slowly, very slowly, she circled it before his face three times. Her eyes never left his.
Satish’s chest rose and fell deeply.
Everyone else was smiling at their moment, but neither of them noticed.
Then, came the aarti.
The five rounds.
Her soft chanting mixed with the flickering flame, her gaze deepening with every rotation.
Satish’s fingers itched to reach for her.
Finally, the sweet.
Sharayu picked up a piece of Rasmalai, his absolute favorite.
But instead of feeding it to him immediately, she hesitated.
“What?” Satish whispered.
She smirked. “Will you always be this stubborn, Professor?”
Before he could answer, she gently placed the Rasmalai against his lips.
Satish held her gaze as he slowly took a bite.
The moment stretched.
His lips brushed against her fingers.
A faint gasp escaped her.
He smirked. “Your hands are shaking, Mrs Rajvanshi.”
She quickly withdrew her hand, flustered. “Eat properly!”
Vanya giggled. “Bhabhi, why are you blushing?”
Sharayu glared at her, but before she could respond, Dadi clapped her hands together.
“Bas bas! Satish, beta, now that the aarti is done, go take blessings from everyone.”
Satish did as told, but his mind remained stuck on one thing
The way Sharayu’s hands trembled when she touched him.
And the way his heart thundered when she did.
***
Satish stood before the beautifully decorated table, the flickering candle on his birthday cake casting a warm glow over the room. Everyone had gathered around, their faces filled with joy and anticipation. But his eyes searched for only one person.
Sharayu.
She stood beside Vanya, looking at him with that small, teasing smile she always wore when she was up to something. But tonight, there was something softer in her gaze something that made his heart clench.
“Make a wish, beta,” his mother encouraged.
Satish took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and let his heart speak.
“I wish…”
“…For this warmth, this happiness, this family ” his eyes fluttered open briefly, landing on Sharayu.
“And for her.”
He let the thought linger in his mind before sealing it within him.
“I wish that every birthday from now on, I get to celebrate it with her. That every candle I blow out, every wish I make, will have her beside me. Always.”
The room was filled with the sound of everyone singing, “Happy Birthday to you…”
Satish smirked as he cut the cake, his gaze flickering to Sharayu.
“Now, who do I feed first?” He raised a brow, looking at her expectantly.
But before he could make a move, Sharayu pointed straight at Dadi. “First to Dadi, of course!”
Dadi chuckled as Satish fed her a piece of the cake. “Acha, acha. Now go to your parents.”
He turned to his mother and father, giving them their share before his siblings eagerly opened their mouths like baby birds.
“Arrey, ek ek karke!” Satish scolded, laughing, as he fed Vanya and Daksh next.
Finally, his eyes locked onto her.
Sharayu swallowed, suddenly feeling nervous.
Satish took a piece of the cake, his fingers brushing against the creamy texture, and brought it near her lips.
“Ab tum,” he said, voice dropping an octave.
Her lips parted slightly as she took a hesitant bite, avoiding his intense gaze. The soft chocolate melted on her tongue, but her heart was pounding for an entirely different reason.
She quickly moved back, only for Satish to do something that made her freeze.
He took the remaining half of the same piece she had bitten… and ate it.
Her eyes widened.
Her teeth marks were still on it.
Her lips had touched that bite.
And now… his had, too.
The realization made her cheeks burn.
Satish licked the remaining cream off his thumb, completely unfazed. “Mmm, extra sweet.” His lips curled into a slow smirk as he looked at her.
Sharayu’s breath hitched.
“S-Satish!” she hissed, turning away in embarrassment.
But it was too late.
The entire family had caught on.
“Aiyyo, bhabhi is blushing!” Vanya whispered loudly.
“Dekho dekho, how cute!” Daksh teased.
Even Dadi, who usually refrained from teasing, was smiling knowingly.
“Acha, Satish, we thought you loved sweets, but we didn’t know you’d steal from Sharayu’s share too!” his mother added, barely hiding her amusement.
Satish leaned closer to Sharayu and whispered, “You know me, sweetheart. I only like things that are… exclusively yours.”
Sharayu felt her entire soul leave her body.
“Bas bas! No more teasing!” She quickly turned to the family, her hands clasped together. “Cake cutting is done, now let’s eat food, please!”
The family erupted Into laughter as she practically fled toward the dining area.
Satish smirked, watching her go.
Sharayu busied herself in the dining area, pretending to check on the food while trying to cool down her burning cheeks.
“Ugh, why does he have to be like this?” she muttered under her breath.
She had planned everything so perfectly the decorations, the food, the rituals. She had kept herself composed the entire evening. But no, Mr. Rajvanshi had to ruin it all with one stolen bite of cake and that damn smirk.
And now, the entire family was onto them.
She felt a presence behind her, her senses tingling before she even turned around.
Satish.
“Still blushing, sweetheart?” His deep voice was far too close to her ear.
Sharayu flinched, spinning around, only to find him standing there with his arms crossed, looking smug.
“I am NOT blushing.” She narrowed her eyes. “And don’t call me sweetheart in front of everyone!”
“Oh?” Satish tilted his head. “So, only when we’re alone then?”
Sharayu gasped, stomping on his foot.
“OW! Sharayu!”
Before she could retort, Vanya suddenly popped up beside them, giggling.
“Aww, Bhai, did Bhabhi just hit you?!”
“NO!” Satish glared at his sister.
“YES!” Sharayu grinned victoriously.
“Haww, Bhabhi, you shouldn’t be this mean on his birthday!” Vanya teased.
“I’m not mean,” Sharayu huffed, crossing her arms. “He’s just annoying.”
“Annoying, but your favorite annoying person,” Satish said smoothly, leaning against the dining table.
Sharayu regretted everything.
Because Vanya squealed in delight.
Before she could say anything more, Dadi’s voice rang out from the living room.
“Bas bas, stop troubling my bahu!”
Sharayu choked on air.
“DAAADII!”
The room exploded into laughter.
Even Satish, who usually kept his composure, couldn’t help but chuckle.
This family was impossible.
But… she loved them.
Even if they teased her mercilessly.
Even if Satish was the most irritating man on the planet.
She loved them.
Satish froze mid-step as his eyes scanned the long dining table, his brows lifting in surprise.
Every single one of his favorite dishes was laid out beautifully, the rich aroma filling the air. From paneer makhani to his mother’s special dal, crispy stuffed bhindi, soft phulkas, Naans, veg biryani, and his ultimate weakness hot, homemade gulab jamuns.
“Damn,” he whispered under his breath.
“What happened, Bhai?” Vanya smirked from the side, already anticipating his reaction.
“You look like you just fell in love,” Daksh added with a laugh.
Satish ignored them, his eyes darting toward his mother, who stood proudly at the head of the table.
“Maa… you made all this?” His voice was soft, touched.
“I did.” His mother smiled, but then her eyes twinkled mischievously. “But I had a very special helper today.”
Satish blinked. Helper?
Before he could ask, his mother turned to Sharayu.
“Sharayu helped me prepare everything.”
His gaze snapped to her.
Sharayu, who was standing near the kitchen door, looked anywhere but at him, suddenly very interested in the dining table.
Satish felt something warm settle in his chest.
“You did all this?” His voice was quieter now.
Sharayu shrugged, still refusing to meet his gaze. “I just… helped a little. Aunty did most of it.”
“A little?” His mother scoffed. “She was in the kitchen the entire day. Kneading dough, cutting vegetables, stirring the gravy if anyone deserves credit, it’s her.”
“Damn, Bhabhi,” Daksh whistled. “You cooked all this for Bhai? That’s some serious wifey behavior.”
Sharayu’s eyes widened.
“SHUT UP, DAKSH!”
The entire family burst into laughter.
Satish, on the other hand, was still staring at her.
His usually fierce, sharp-eyed Sharayu… had been in the kitchen the whole day. For him.
Something tightened in his chest.
Before she could react, he reached out, grabbing her wrist and pulling her toward him.
“You’re seriously something else, you know that?” His voice was low, just for her.
Sharayu squeaked, struggling. “Satish, let go your family is here!”
“Let them watch,” he teased, his lips twitching.
“Oh my god, you’re impossible!”
His grandmother suddenly clapped her hands.
“Bas bas, enough romance. Let’s eat before the food gets cold!”
Everyone cheered, taking their seats, and soon, the room was filled with laughter, conversation, and the clinking of plates.
Satish, sitting beside Sharayu, kept stealing glances at her as he ate.
And when he finally took the first bite of the food she had helped prepare, he knew this was one of his best birthdays ever.
As the dinner went on, Satish barely paid attention to the conversation around him. His focus was on the girl sitting next to him, the girl who had spent the entire day in the kitchen just to make his birthday special.
Sharayu was busy serving everyone, ensuring his family had everything they needed. She hadn’t even properly eaten herself.
Satish noticed.
And he wouldn’t have it.
With a smirk, he picked up a piece of soft phulka, dipped it in the creamy panner makhani, and without warning, brought it to her lips.
“Eat.”
Sharayu froze. Her wide eyes flickered between him and the piece of food so close to her mouth.
“What?”
“For all your hard work.” His voice was low, teasing, full of something deeper. “You deserve this first bite, Sharayu.”
She felt her breath hitch.
Around them, the family had gone silent, watching with rapt attention.
“Oh-ho!” Daksh grinned. “Bhai is being all romantic today!”
“Arre haan,” Vanya giggled. “Feeding Bhabhi first? Looks like someone is making this official.”
Sharayu’s cheeks burned.
“Satish, everyone is looking!” she hissed, trying to push his hand away.
But Satish didn’t budge.
“Let them,” he said smoothly. “Now, be a good girl and open your mouth.”
Her heart thundered.
And before she could think, her lips parted slightly, just enough for him to gently place the piece of roti inside.
His fingers brushed against her lips soft, warm, lingering.
Sharayu swore she forgot how to breathe.
His touch sent a shiver down her spine, her body betraying her as heat crept up her neck.
And Satish?
He was watching her. Watching her reaction, her flustered expression, the way her lips closed around the bite he had fed her.
“Good girl,” he murmured, just for her to hear.
Her entire face went up in flames.
The family?
Oh, they had lost it.
“Arre waah!” His grandmother laughed. “Sharayu beta, are you going to feed Satish now? After all, he fed you first!”
“Yes, yes! Equal rights!” Vanya chimed in, clapping. “Bhabhi, feed him!”
“Haan haan!” Daksh nodded enthusiastically. “We want to see it!”
Sharayu choked.
Satish, on the other hand, leaned back lazily, smirking.
“I wouldn’t mind,” he said, his eyes glinting with mischief. “After all, I did start it.”
Sharayu gritted her teeth, glaring at him.
“You are impossible!”
But Satish only grinned wider.
“And, you still made all my favorite dishes.”
His voice was low, smug, and utterly sinful.
“No way,” she whispered harshly, glaring at Satish, who was looking entirely too amused. “This is not happening.”
“Oh, but it is, Bhabhi!” Vanya clapped excitedly. “Bhai fed you, now it’s your turn!”
“Fair is fair, Sharayu beta,” his grandmother chuckled, thoroughly entertained.
Sharayu felt her entire body burn with embarrassment.
Satish, of course, was enjoying this way too much.
“I mean,” he leaned back in his chair, watching her struggle, “I wouldn’t want to break tradition.”
Sharayu whipped her head toward him, narrowing her eyes.
“You!”
“I’m waiting, sweetheart,” he said smoothly, voice low, teasing. “I would hate to keep everyone waiting.”
This man. This insufferable man.
Sharayu took a deep breath, gathered all her courage, and finally picked up a small piece of his favorite gulab jamun.
“Fine,” she hissed, “but don’t make a scene.”
She held up the sweet delicately, bringing it closer to his lips.
Satish watched her, eyes dark with amusement. But instead of simply taking the bite, he tilted his head slightly, letting his lips brush against her fingers as he took the sweet into his mouth.
A slow, deliberate touch.
Sharayu froze.
Heat shot through her entire body.
Satish’s lips curled into a satisfied smirk as he chewed.
“Sweet,” he murmured, looking directly at her. “But I think you taste better.”
She choked.
The entire family gasped, then burst into laughter.
“Arre, what was that?!” Daksh grinned. “Bhai, control yourself, at least in front of everyone!”
“Oh my God, Sharayu is so red!” Vanya giggled. “Bhabhi, do you need water?”
Satish’s mother shook her head, laughing.
“Satish, stop teasing the poor girl!” she scolded playfully.
Sharayu, on the verge of combusting, turned to Satish and whispered furiously.
“You are impossible!”
Satish only grinned wider.
“But, you just fed me like a good wife should.”
If looks could kill, he would have been dead.
But instead, he simply winked.
“Look at Bhabhi, blushing so much,” Vanya grinned, nudging Sharayu. “Bhai, I think she’s ready for the next ritual feeding you every day!”
“Stop it, Vanya!” Sharayu whispered harshly, throwing a glare at Satish, who was sitting entirely too relaxed, enjoying her suffering.
“I wouldn’t mind,” Satish added casually, biting into a piece of naan, eyes twinkling. “In fact, I think I should fall sick more often if this is how I’ll be taken care of.”
“HA!” Daksh laughed. “You’re not even sick anymore! Stop pretending just to get pampered by Bhabhi.”
“Who said I was pretending?” Satish raised an eyebrow, looking directly at Sharayu. “I’m still weak. Maybe she should take care of me for a few more days.”
Sharayu gasped, nearly dropping her spoon.
“You !”
“It’s okay, beta,” his grandmother intervened sweetly, patting Sharayu’s hand. “You take care of him so well. You should just move in and make it easier for all of us.”
Silence.
Sharayu froze. Satish choked on his food.
And then laughter exploded around the table.
“Dadi, you’re giving ideas that don’t need to be given!” Vanya cackled.
“Why not?” His mother smirked. “Sharayu, you’re already feeding him, taking care of him, and blushing like a new bride. Just say the word, and we’ll make it official!”
Sharayu felt her soul leave her body.
“I.....Aunty, please “ she stammered, looking at Satish for help.
But Satish? Oh, he was having the time of his life.
He leaned back, arms crossed, watching her with a smirk.
“I think it’s a great idea,” he mused.
“SATISH!” Sharayu whipped her head toward him, betrayal written all over her face.
“What? He shrugged innocently. “They’re right. You take such good care of me. Shouldn’t you just do it officially?”
“I AM GOING TO KILL YOU.”
“Only if you catch me, sweetheart.”
The entire family laughed again, watching the drama unfold.
Dinner at the Rajvanshi house was nothing short of a feast a well-planned surprise turned into a perfect evening.
The dining table was filled with Satish’s favorite dishes. From piping hot paneer butter masala, perfectly roasted jeera rice, soft garlic naan, and crispy veg manchurian to the rich aroma of dal tadka, everything looked mouth-watering.
Satish took a bite of the paneer and closed his eyes, savoring the taste. “This is… perfect. Just like how I like it.”
His mother smiled proudly. “Sharayu helped me a lot. She made most of the dishes, especially the paneer and dal.”
Satish raised an eyebrow, looking at Sharayu with an amused smirk. “Oh? So I should be thanking you for this delicious meal?”
“You should!” Vanya chimed in. “Bhabhi worked so hard. You better eat every bite and not waste her effort!”
The teasing continued as everyone enjoyed the food, but the real highlight was the dessert.
His mother had made gajar ka halwa, while Sharayu had prepared Kheer.
“Oh my god, this is the best kheer I’ve ever had!” Vanya gushed, taking another bite. “Bhabhi, you need to make this every day after you get married!”
“VANYA!” Sharayu glared, but her blush betrayed her.
Satish simply smirked, taking a spoon of kheer and offering it to Sharayu.
“Feed her, Bhai!” Daksh whistled.
Satish held it up, waiting. “Come on, Sharayu. It’s your own cooking. You should taste it first.”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes but knew there was no escape. She took a small bite, only for Satish to sneakily eat the rest from the same spoon.
The entire family burst out laughing as Sharayu turned completely red.
After dinner, Sharayu got up to leave.
“It’s getting late,” she said. “I should go home. My family is waiting for me.”
“Wait, why are you leaving so soon?” his mother frowned. “Stay for a little longer.”
“Yes, Bhabhi! Stay!” Vanya pleaded.
“Stop calling me that!”
Satish, who had been silently watching, finally spoke up. “No need to argue. I’ll drop her home.”
“Satish, I can go by myself “
“Not happening,” he cut her off smoothly, standing up. “It’s late. I’m taking you home, and that’s final.”
Sharayu sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing.
“Fine,” she muttered, looking away.
But as Satish grabbed his keys and smirked at her, she had a feeling this ride home was about to be anything but normal…
As Satish and Sharayu stepped out of the Rajvanshi house, the cool night air greeted them. The sky was painted in soft shades of deep blue, stars twinkling like little secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Without even thinking, Sharayu reached for his arm, fingers wrapping around his bicep like it was the most natural thing in the world. The muscle tensed slightly under her touch, and she could feel the warmth of his skin through the fabric of his shirt.
Satish glanced down at her hand and smirked. “Holding onto me like that, sweetheart? He teased, his voice smooth as silk. “Didn’t know we reached the ‘clingy girlfriend’ stage yet.”
Sharayu immediately tried to pull her hand back, but he caught her wrist, pulling her closer.
“You’re impossible,” she mumbled, looking away.
“And you’re adorable,” he countered.
Before she could reply, he suddenly pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in a warm embrace.
Sharayu froze for a second before slowly melting against him. His scent a mix of fresh cologne and something uniquely him wrapped around her like a cocoon.
“Thank you, Sharayu,” he murmured, his breath fanning against her ear.
She tilted her head up, confused. “For what?”
“For everything.” He leaned in just a little, his lips dangerously close to her cheek. “For making this birthday special. For taking care of me. For being mine.”
Sharayu felt her heart race. “Satish…”
“Hmm?” His voice was laced with mischief.
“You’re being “ Before she could finish, he suddenly brushed his lips lightly against her forehead, the warmth lingering long after he pulled away.
“What?” He smirked. “Too much?”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes, trying to ignore the heat rushing to her cheeks. “I swear, one day, I’ll get back at you for all this teasing.”
“Oh, sweetheart,” he chuckled, opening the car door for her. “I look forward to it.”
With a playful wink, he gestured for her to get inside. But before she could, he leaned down slightly, his lips grazing just above her ear as he whispered
“Unless, of course, you’d rather take your revenge right now.. in the car.”
Sharayu swatted his arm, shoving him away.
“Drive, Professor,” she huffed, slipping into the passenger seat.
Satish laughed, shaking his head before getting in. “As you wish, Mrs Rajvanshi. But don’t think I didn’t notice how much you enjoyed that hug.”
And just like that, the teasing continued… all the way home.
### A Drive Filled with Teasing and Temptation
The car hummed softly as Satish navigated the quiet roads, the glow of streetlights casting a warm golden hue inside. The atmosphere inside the car was thick with unspoken tension, an electric current crackling between them.
Satish, without hesitation, rested his hand on her thigh, his thumb tracing slow, lazy circles over the fabric of her dress.
Sharayu glanced at him sharply, her breath hitching. “What do you think you’re doing?”
He didn’t even blink. “What does it look like?” he murmured, his voice deep and smooth, filled with playful arrogance.
“Satish,” she warned, her fingers twitching in her lap, but she didn’t push his hand away.
“Hmm?” He flicked a glance at her before turning his attention back to the road, his grip on her thigh tightening slightly.
“You were awfully cruel today,” he continued, his tone dipping into something low and sultry. “Ignoring me the whole day. No wishes, no texts… nothing.”
Sharayu bit her lip, knowing exactly what he was doing. “I had to make the surprise believable,” she defended.
Satish chuckled darkly. “And you enjoyed watching me suffer, didn’t you?”
She didn’t answer. Instead, she turned her face toward the window, trying to hide her smile.
That was all the confirmation he needed.
Without warning, he caught her left hand in his, bringing it to his lips, pressing a slow, lingering kiss against the back of her palm.
Her stomach did a flip.
“You little minx,” he murmured, his lips brushing over her skin again, this time against her wrist, where he could feel her pulse race under his touch.
“Satish!” she gasped, trying to pull her hand away, but he held on.
“No, no, no,” he teased, trailing his lips along the side of her palm. “You ignored me all day, made me suffer, and now you don’t want to hear me complain?”
“I already made it up to you, didn’t I?” she challenged, her voice slightly breathless.
Satish arched a brow, smirking. “Did you?” He gave her hand one last squeeze before resting it against his chest. “Because I’m still not convinced.”
“Oh, really?” she crossed her arms. “What more do you want, Professor?”
Satish turned the car into a quieter lane, slowing down.
“Maybe,” he mused, his fingers once again trailing along her thigh, dangerously close to places that made her breath hitch, “an apology. A real one.”
Sharayu narrowed her eyes. “I literally cooked for you, planned your surprise, and put up with your terrible teasing. And you want an apology?”
Satish smirked, turning his head slightly, voice dropping to a whisper.
“I want you to tell me how much you missed me today.”
Sharayu felt warmth creep up her neck. “Satish…”
“Go on,” he coaxed, his voice like molten honey, fingers tightening slightly on her leg. “Say it.”
She looked away, heart hammering, but then she heard his deep chuckle.
“I swear, you enjoy this way too much,” she muttered.
“Oh, absolutely,” he grinned, his thumb once again drawing slow circles on her thigh. “So? How much did you miss me?”
Sharayu groaned dramatically. “Fine. I missed you, okay? Happy now?”
Satish pretended to consider it. “Hmm. Maybe a little more emotion next time.”
She swatted his arm.
“Drive, Professor, before I actually jump out of the car.”
He laughed, but finally let her off the hook.
Sharayu shifted uncomfortably in her seat, biting back a small wince as she stretched her legs. The dull ache throbbed up her calves, a reminder of the long hours she had spent standing in the kitchen, running around making sure everything was perfect for Satish’s birthday.
Satish, who had been quietly watching her from the corner of his eye, pressed his lips together in concern. She’s in pain, he realized.
Without a word, he reached for the gear shift, put the car in park on the side of the quiet road, and turned toward her.
“Sharayu.” His voice was softer now, serious.
She blinked at him. “Hmm?”
He tilted his head slightly, eyes flickering down to her legs. “You’re hurting.”
Sharayu froze for a second. She had thought she was being subtle, but of course, he had noticed.
“It’s nothing,” she dismissed quickly.
Satish didn’t buy it.
“Put your legs up.” His tone left no room for argument.
Sharayu stared at him, dumbfounded. “What?”
He sighed, reaching out and gently placing a warm palm on her knee. “Your legs are hurting, sweetheart. Just do as I say.”
The casual endearment sent a shiver down her spine.
“Satish, I–”
“Sharayu.” He held her gaze, unwavering. “Up. Now.”
She swallowed hard, hesitating, but the throbbing pain made her give in. Slowly, she lifted her legs, letting them rest over his lap.
What she didn’t expect was for Satish to immediately start kneading the tense muscles of her calf with firm, precise movements.
A sharp gasp escaped her lips.
“What are you “
“Shh,” he murmured, his fingers pressing in all the right places. “You did so much for me today. You don’t get to suffer because of it.”
Sharayu bit her lower lip, eyes fluttering shut for a brief moment.
His touch was magic. The warmth of his palms, the way his thumbs pressed into her sore muscles, working out the tension with slow, deliberate strokes it was overwhelming.
“You’re too stunned to speak?” Satish teased, a small smirk playing on his lips.
Sharayu’s eyes snapped open. “N-No, I just “ She sucked in a breath as he found a particularly sore spot.
“Mm-hmm,” he hummed, clearly enjoying her reaction.
“Satish,” she half-whispered, half-whined, trying to regain some sense of control. “I can do it myself “
“You’re not doing anything,” he cut her off, fingers now moving to her ankle, pressing in slow circles. “Let me take care of you, Sharayu.”
Her chest tightened.
It wasn’t just the way his hands moved over her skin, or how incredibly good it felt it was his words.
Let me take care of you.
There was something so raw, so intimate in the way he said it, like it wasn’t just about her legs hurting. Like he wanted to take care of her in every way possible.
She looked at him, eyes searching his face.
“You don’t have to do this,” she murmured.
Satish’s hands paused for a second. Then he looked up, his expression unreadable.
“I want to.”
Her heart skipped a beat.
Neither of them spoke for a moment. The air between them felt heavy, charged.
Then, as if sensing that she was getting too lost in her thoughts, Satish grinned suddenly, breaking the tension.
“Besides,” he added, resuming his massage with slow, lazy strokes. “It’s a win-win situation for me.”
Sharayu arched a brow. “How?”
His smirk deepened.
“I get to touch you as much as I want, and you can’t even scold me for it.”
Sharayu gasped, her cheeks turning a furious shade of red. “You !”
Satish chuckled, completely unbothered, his fingers trailing along her ankle teasingly.
“Shh, sweetheart. Relax. Enjoy it.”
Satish’s grip on the steering wheel was firm, but his other hand remained on her leg, his fingers continuing their slow, soothing movements as he drove through the dimly lit streets. His thumb traced lazy circles against her ankle, his warmth seeping into her skin, making it impossible for her to focus on anything else.
Sharayu, half-dazed from his touch, bit the inside of her cheek, trying to compose herself. The way he handled the car so effortlessly with just one hand while the other was completely occupied with her made her stomach flip.
“You’re going to get us killed,” she murmured, voice breathier than she intended.
Satish smirked, stealing a glance at her. “I’m a multitasker, sweetheart. Besides, if I die, at least my last moments would be spent touching you.”
Sharayu swatted at his shoulder, her face heating up. “Shameless!”
“Only for you.” His voice was deep, teasing, but there was a hunger in his eyes, a flicker of something dark and unrestrained as he looked at her for a second longer before focusing back on the road.
The tension between them crackled like a live wire.
As they pulled up outside her house, Satish finally let go of her leg, but the warmth of his touch lingered like a brand. Sharayu turned to him, her heart pounding.
She leaned in.
Satish barely had time to process before her lips pressed a lingering kiss to his cheek, soft, warm, and slow.
“Happy birthday, Satish,” she whispered against his skin, her breath sending a shiver down his spine.
Then, just as she was about to pull away, she added the words that shattered his restraint completely.
“I love you.”
Satish’s entire body went rigid.
Something dark and possessive flared in his eyes as his hand shot out, gripping her waist before she could escape.
“Not so fast, sweetheart,” he murmured, voice low and dangerous.
Before she could blink, he had her on his lap, straddling him, his arms wrapped around her waist in a vice-like grip.
Sharayu let out a soft gasp, her hands bracing against his chest.
“Sa-Satish!”
But he didn’t let her finish.
His lips crashed onto hers.
It wasn’t soft. It wasn’t sweet.
It was raw, desperate, and demanding.
His lips moved against hers feverishly, claiming, taking, owning. He kissed her like she was the very air he needed to breathe, like he had been starving for her and finally had a taste.
His fingers dug into her waist, pulling her impossibly closer as if he wanted to merge into her. One hand tangled into her hair, tilting her head back, deepening the kiss until there was no space, no air left between them.
Sharayu moaned softly, her fingers curling into his shirt, clutching onto him for support.
The heat between them was intoxicating, suffocating.
When Satish finally pulled back, both of them were breathless, their chests heaving, their lips swollen from the intensity of it all.
His forehead rested against hers, his fingers still gripping her waist as if he refused to let go.
“Happy birthday to me, I guess,” he whispered, his lips brushing against hers one last time in a teasing ghost of a kiss.
Sharayu let out a shaky breath, her fingers trembling against his chest.
Satish chuckled, his voice deep and husky.
“I love you too, sweetheart,” he murmured, his eyes dark with something unreadable.
Then, with a smirk that made her stomach twist with anticipation, he added, “Now my birthday is complete the way I wanted.”
Sharayu’s cheeks burned, her lips still tingling.
“You!” she tried to scold him, but her voice betrayed her, weak and breathless.
Satish grinned, dragging his thumb across her lower lip. “What, sweetheart? Can’t handle the way I love you?”
Sharayu had no answer.
Sharayu sat frozen in Satish’s lap, her heart hammering against her ribs, her breath still uneven from the intensity of his kiss. His hands were still on her waist, warm, firm, unrelenting, as if he wasn’t ready to let her go yet.
The silence inside the car was thick with electric tension, only the sound of their uneven breathing filling the space.
“You should go,” she whispered, but there was no conviction in her voice.
Satish’s fingers tightened ever so slightly on her waist, his lips curving into a slow, dangerous smirk.
“Are you sure, sweetheart?” he murmured, his voice like liquid fire, deep and teasing, making her shiver.
Sharayu tried to push at his chest, but her hands betrayed her, staying pressed against him instead of shoving him away.
“Satish,” she warned, her voice barely above a breath.
“Hmm?” His nose brushed against hers, his breath warm against her lips. “You just kissed me, told me you love me, and now you expect me to just drop you home like nothing happened?”
His tone was mockingly amused, but there was something darker in his eyes a silent plea, a raw longing that made her stomach twist.
“I-I have to go inside. My mother will “
“Your mother will assume you’re already asleep by now,” he interrupted smoothly, tracing slow, lazy circles on her lower back with his fingers.
Sharayu swallowed hard.
He was impossible.
But he was also right.
Still, she had to be the sensible one.
“I’ll call you when I get inside,” she tried to reason.
Satish arched an eyebrow. “That’s not the same as having you in my arms, sweetheart.”
His words sent a dangerous warmth through her veins.
“Satish,” she warned again, but he wasn’t listening.
Instead, his lips found her jawline, placing the softest, most delicate kiss there.
Sharayu sucked in a sharp breath, her fingers curling into his shirt.
“I love you, Sharayu,” he murmured against her skin, his voice husky and thick with emotion. “And I don’t think I’ll ever stop wanting you like this.”
Her heart skipped a beat.
Because she felt the same.
Taking a deep breath, she finally found the strength to cup his face, forcing him to look into her eyes.
“I love you too,” she admitted, her voice softer now, but no less intense.
Satish’s eyes darkened.
He leaned in, brushing his lips against hers teasingly, as if asking for permission.
A soft knock on the car window shattered the moment.
Sharayu gasped and turned her head sharply, her heart nearly leaping out of her chest.
Satish let out a low curse under his breath.
Outside, the security guard was standing there, looking mildly awkward but not entirely surprised.
“Sir, madam… it’s quite late,” the guard said hesitantly.
Sharayu flushed bright red, immediately scrambling off Satish’s lap.
Satish, however, wasn’t fazed at all.
He simply rolled down the window slightly and said, “We were just talking.”
The guard gave a knowing look but wisely said nothing.
Sharayu, mortified, grabbed the door handle and pushed it open. “Goodnight, Satish,” she said quickly, stepping out of the car.
Before she could escape, Satish caught her wrist, pulling her back slightly.
“Sweetheart,” he whispered, his voice holding a dangerous edge.
She turned to look at him, only for him to smirk and say,
“This conversation isn’t over yet.”
Sharayu swallowed hard, her body betraying her by reacting to his words.
She quickly turned and rushed inside, but she could feel his gaze burning into her back.
“Sharayu?”
The voice wasn’t his.
It was familiar in a different way—grounding, brotherly, laced with confusion.
She froze for half a second before turning. Her brother,Chaitanya stood a few steps behind her, eyebrows slightly raised, watching her with suspicion. She realized then how she must look—cheeks flushed, eyes too wide, breath uneven, as if she had been caught doing something she shouldn’t.
His gaze scanned her face, searching.
“What happened? Why do you look like that?”
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