The past two days had been a blur of exhaustion, worry, and restless waiting. The routine had become second nature hospital to home, home to hospital. Sharayu, Chaitanya, and their mother barely got any rest, running on adrenaline and hope.

The ICU had been their world, the beeping of machines their background music, and the steady rise and fall of their father’s chest the only thing keeping them going. Each passing hour had been spent glancing at the door whenever a doctor or nurse walked in, waiting for an update that would either calm their hearts or break them further.

But today, as they sat outside the ICU, their mother’s hands clasped tightly together in silent prayer, a doctor finally approached them with a small yet hopeful smile.

“Mr. Ketkar’s condition has improved significantly, “ he said, looking at the three of them. “His vitals are stable, and we’ll be shifting him to a normal ward in a few hours. “

The moment the words sank in, Sharayu felt her mother’s breath hitch. Tears welled up in her eyes, but this time, they weren’t from fear they were from relief.

“Thank you, Doctor, “ Chaitanya said, his voice laced with gratitude.

Their mother folded her hands in front of the doctor in pure respect, her voice trembling as she spoke. “You don’t know how much this means to us, Doctor. Thank you so much. “

The doctor smiled kindly. “He’s strong, and he’s responding well to the treatment. Let’s keep his recovery smooth. You can visit him once he’s shifted. “

As soon as he left, their mother let out a deep sigh of relief. She wiped her tears, turning to look at her children.

“Did you hear that? He’s okay. He’s really okay, “ she whispered, as if saying it out loud would make it even more real.

Sharayu’s chest felt lighter for the first time in days.

The quiet hum of the hospital filled the ward as Sharayu sat beside her father, adjusting his blanket slightly to make sure he was comfortable. Though his face was still pale, there was a noticeable improvement in his strength. The relief in her chest was immeasurable.

Just then, a familiar figure appeared at the door Satish. His presence was calm yet commanding, his sharp gaze scanning the room before settling on her father. He stepped inside with a respectful nod.

“Namaste, Sir, “ Satish greeted politely, his voice steady.

Sharayu’s father looked up at him, curiosity flickering in his tired eyes. “Ah, Professor Rajvanshi… I remember you from the other day. “

Satish smiled faintly. “Yes, I came by to check on you earlier. I hope you’re feeling better now. “

Her father nodded slowly. “Much better, thanks to the doctors here… and to my family for holding things together. “ His eyes drifted to Sharayu, and there was an unmistakable warmth in them.

Satish followed his gaze, his expression softening for the briefest second before he composed himself again. “Sharayu is strong, “ he said, his voice carrying an undertone of admiration. “She’s been managing everything with remarkable resilience. “

Her father chuckled weakly. “That she is. My daughter doesn’t break easily. “

Sharayu lowered her gaze, trying to steady the pounding of her heart. Satish’s words carried more weight than they seemed to on the surface, and she wasn’t sure if her father had caught onto the depth of his tone.

Just then, Chaitanya walked in, holding a thermos of warm water. He paused briefly at the sight of Satish and raised an eyebrow, exchanging a knowing glance with him.

Chaitanya, though initially shocked, had kept their secret. But now, watching the way Satish was looking at his sister, he wondered if their father had started to suspect something too.

Her father, oblivious to the silent exchange, spoke again, his tone light but observant. “It’s rare to see a professor visiting a student’s family in a hospital. Most wouldn’t go beyond professional boundaries. “

Satish didn’t flinch. He was far too composed to let anything slip. “I believe in supporting my students beyond academics, Sir, “ he said smoothly. “Sharayu is one of the brightest in my department, and I respect her dedication. I simply wanted to make sure everything was alright. “

Her father studied him for a moment before nodding. “That’s kind of you. “

The conversation flowed effortlessly after that, with Satish asking about his recovery and her father responding with a mix of dry humor and exhaustion. Chaitanya, standing to the side, observed how carefully Satish chose his words never too formal, never too familiar, but with an undeniable undercurrent of care.

Sharayu, on the other hand, could feel her father’s gaze shift between her and Satish at odd moments, as if he was piecing something together. Her heart clenched at the thought. Was he beginning to suspect? Would he confront her later?

She tried to focus on the conversation, but her mind kept racing. Satish was handling the situation with his usual calm demeanor, but even he wasn’t immune to her father’s sharp instincts.

After some time, her father yawned, his energy slowly depleting. “I should rest for a while, “ he murmured.

Satish stood up. “I won’t take up more of your time, Sir. Please take care. “

Her father nodded, but just as Satish turned to leave, he spoke again. “Professor Rajvanshi… “

Satish paused, looking back at him.

“Thank you, “ her father said, his voice laced with something deeper than mere gratitude. “For everything. “

Satish held his gaze, understanding the layers hidden within those words. “Anytime, Sir. “

As he left, Sharayu exhaled a shaky breath. Her father’s eyes lingered on her for a few seconds longer before he finally closed them to rest.

Chaitanya, however, leaned in close to her and whispered, “You better be careful. Baba is noticing things. “

Sharayu swallowed hard. The storm she had been trying to avoid might not be far away after all.

After days of restless waiting and anxious prayers, the moment had finally arrived her father was being discharged. The weight of the past week still clung to them, but there was finally a sense of relief.

Sharayu stood beside her mother as they completed the formalities, while Chaitanya helped their father into a wheelchair. He looked weak, but his eyes were filled with a quiet determination.

Satish had offered no, insisted on coming to help, but Sharayu had refused. Her father had already been watching them too closely, and she didn’t want to give him any more reasons to be suspicious.

“It’s better if you don’t come today, “ she had told Satish over the phone. “He already suspects something, and I don’t want to add to it. “

Satish had sighed but didn’t argue. He knew she was right.

“Fine. But if you need anything, call me. No excuses. “

She had smiled at his concern. “I will, don’t worry. “

Now, as they helped their father into the car, Sharayu felt a strange mix of emotions relief, exhaustion, and a lingering nervousness she couldn’t shake.

The drive home was mostly silent, except for her mother murmuring small prayers of gratitude. Chaitanya focused on the road, his grip steady on the steering wheel, while Sharayu sat in the backseat, stealing glances at her father.

He looked around as they entered their lane, taking in the familiarity of the neighborhood he had been away from. When they reached home, neighbors peeked out, some stepping forward to ask about his health.

“It’s good to see you back, Ketkar , “ one of them said.

Her father gave a small nod, though his exhaustion was evident. “It’s good to be back. “

Once inside, her mother immediately busied herself, making sure everything was clean and comfortable for him. Chaitanya helped him settle on the bed, adjusting the pillows.

Sharayu took a deep breath, looking around their home. It felt the same yet different. Maybe it was the emotional whirlwind they had been through, or maybe it was the quiet tension hanging in the air.

Their mother fussed over her father, making sure he was warm, while Chaitanya took charge of arranging his medications.

“You don’t have to keep hovering over me, “ their father said in a tired but amused tone.

“You’ve worried me enough in this lifetime, “ their mother replied, not backing down.

Despite the lighthearted exchange, Sharayu could sense her father was still observing everything. He wasn’t just looking at his surroundings he was watching them. Watching her.

Later that evening, after their father had eaten a light meal and taken his medicine, he sat in his usual spot the cushioned chair in the living room. The warm glow of the evening sun filtered in through the windows, casting long shadows across the room.

Sharayu sat across from him, pretending to be focused on her phone, but her father’s steady gaze made her uneasy.

“You look tired, “ he finally said.

She looked up, surprised. “We’ve all been tired, Baba. “

He hummed thoughtfully. “Yes, but you seem… distracted. “

Her breath caught for a second, but she forced a small smile. “It’s just been a long week. Now that you’re home, things will feel normal again. “

He didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he studied her, his fingers tapping lightly against the armrest.

Then, casually, he asked, “That professor of yours… Rajvanshi. He seems like a good man. “

Sharayu’s heart slammed against her ribs. She gripped her phone tighter. “Uh… yes. He’s well-respected in college. “

Her father nodded slowly, as if weighing her response. “He cares about his students a lot, doesn’t he? “

She felt like she was walking on a thin rope. “Yes… He’s a dedicated professor. “

“Hmm, “ was all he said.

The conversation ended there, but the air between them remained heavy.

That night, as Sharayu sat in her room, scrolling through her phone, a message from Satish popped up.

Satish: Is everything okay?

She hesitated before typing back.

Sharayu: Yes… but Baba asked about you today.

His reply was instant.

Satish: What did he say?

Sharayu: Just… small talk. But he’s watching me too closely. I think he knows something’s off.

Satish didn’t reply right away. She could imagine him deep in thought, trying to figure out the safest way forward.

Just then, her door creaked open, and Chaitanya stepped in.

“You’re terrible at hiding things, “ he said bluntly.

Sharayu sighed. “Dada, I “

“He’s not stupid, Sharayu, “ Chaitanya interrupted. “Baba is catching on. You need to be careful. “

She nodded, rubbing her forehead. “I know. I’m trying. “

Chaitanya folded his arms. “Are you sure about this? About him? “

She looked at him, her expression unwavering. “Yes. I love him. “

Chaitanya exhaled. “Then you better be ready. Because if Baba figures it out… I don’t think it’ll be easy for you. “

Sharayu swallowed hard. She already knew that. But hearing it out loud made the weight of the situation settle deeper in her chest.

She looked down at her phone, Satish’s name glowing on the screen.

The morning was finally peaceful well, as peaceful as it could be after a week of chaos. The house still carried the weight of exhaustion, but the fact that Baba was home made everything feel a little lighter.

Sharayu had just finished helping Aai in the kitchen when the doorbell rang. She wiped her hands on a towel and went to open it, only to find a very familiar, very loud group standing outside.

“Surprise!! “ Rutuja shouted, grinning.

Before Sharayu could react, Arohi pushed past her and wrapped her in a tight hug. “Sharu, we missed you! “

“You missed me ? Or did you miss eating all our snacks? “ Sharayu shot back, trying not to laugh.

“Both, “ Arohi admitted shamelessly.

Behind them, Hriday, Kunal, Vrushal, and Gayatri stood with a bag full of fruits and a bouquet in hand. “Since we don’t want to get beaten up by Aai, we actually brought something this time, “ Hriday said, holding up the bag dramatically.

Sharayu rolled her eyes but stepped aside. “Come in before the neighbors think we run a free entertainment show outside the house. “

As soon as they entered, Aai greeted them warmly. “Arre, look who’s here! I was wondering when you all would show up. “

“Baba is home; how could we not? “ Vrushal said, placing the bouquet on the table.

Their father, who was resting on the living room couch, looked up as they walked in. A tired but genuine smile appeared on his face. “Ah, my daughter’s little army is here. “

“Baba, you should say Sharayu’s headache squad , “ Chaitanya teased from the corner, making everyone laugh.

“Hey! That’s rude. We are very well-behaved guests, “ Kunal said, pretending to look offended.

Aai scoffed. “Yes, yes. Very well-behaved especially when I find my kitchen half empty after you all leave. “

The group exchanged guilty glances, but before Aai could start a lecture, Rutuja quickly stepped forward. “Anyway, Baba, how are you feeling now? We’ve been so worried! “

Her father nodded. “I’m doing much better now, beta. It’s good to be home. “

Arohi pouted dramatically. “You gave us all such a scare, Baba. Next time, please give us stress in small doses! “

“Next time? “ he raised an eyebrow. “I’d rather not have a ‘next time’ at all. “

“Fair point, “ Vrushal muttered.

As they settled down, Aai made sure they had tea and snacks, despite their protests. The house was suddenly filled with laughter and conversation Hriday cracking jokes, Gayatri recounting a funny college incident, and Chaitanya joining in on their teasing.

After about an hour, Aai went into the kitchen to prepare lunch, and Chaitanya got busy on a phone call. That’s when the inevitable happened.

The moment there were no parental figures around, all six of them turned to Sharayu at the same time.

Rutuja smirked. “So… did someone else come to visit? “

Sharayu blinked. “Huh? “

“Don’t ‘huh’ us! “ Kunal said, wiggling his eyebrows. “We mean Professor Rajvanshi or should we say, your father's to-be javai? “

Sharayu choked on air. “ What?! “

“Oh please, “ Hriday rolled his eyes. “Don’t act innocent. We know he came. “

“How do you know? “ she asked suspiciously.

Gayatri grinned. “Because we know you. There’s no way he would’ve stayed away while his Sharu was dealing with all this. “

Arohi clasped her hands together in fake admiration. “A love so strong… even a hospital couldn’t keep them apart! “

Sharayu groaned, covering her face. “You all are impossible. “

“But did he come? “ Rutuja pressed, her curiosity practically shining.

Sharayu sighed in defeat. “Yes. He came. Happy now? “

The room exploded with excitement.

“I knew it! “ Kunal laughed.

“Aww, he came to check on his future father-in-law, “ Vrushal teased. “How sweet! “

“Forget that, what we really want to know is did Baba suspect anything? “ Hriday asked eagerly.

Sharayu hesitated. “He… sort of. “

That shut them up for a second.

“What do you mean sort of ? “ Gayatri leaned forward.

Sharayu sighed. “He watched me the entire time Satish Sir was there. And then later, he randomly brought up his name and started asking questions. “

“Oooooh, “ Arohi whispered dramatically. “The father’s suspicion has begun. “

“Are you screwed? “ Rutuja asked bluntly.

“I don’t know yet, “ Sharayu admitted, rubbing her forehead. “But he’s definitely watching me closely now. “

Hriday whistled. “Then you better not slip up, Sharu. One wrong move and BOOM! You’re caught. “

Sharayu groaned. “Thanks for the vote of confidence. “

“Anytime! “ Kunal grinned.

The laughter and teasing continued for a while, but soon, Aai called everyone for lunch. Despite all their protests, she had prepared an elaborate meal hot puri, batata bhaji, varan bhaat, and freshly made mango pickle.

As everyone sat around the dining table, Baba watched them all with a fond smile. “It feels good to have some noise in the house again. “

“You mean it feels good to finally eat proper home-cooked food again, “ Chaitanya corrected. “Because let’s be honest, hospital food is “

“Unbearable, “ Hriday finished for him, making everyone laugh.

Baba chuckled but then gave a small sigh. “It’s good to be home. And it’s good to see you all. “ His eyes softened. “You kids are really Sharayu’s second family, aren’t you? “

Rutuja grinned. “Of course, Baba! We’re not just friends; we’re her unpaid therapists, stress relievers, and official troublemakers! “

“You forgot ‘professional gossip providers,’ “ Arohi added.

“That too! “

Baba smiled, nodding. “It makes me happy to know my daughter has such strong bonds. “ His gaze lingered on Sharayu for a second too long.

She swallowed nervously, knowing exactly what was going on in his mind.

After lunch, Baba leaned back comfortably in his chair. “So, tell me, how’s college going? “

Sharayu tensed. Here we go.

Kunal started rambling about their upcoming assignments, and for a moment, she thought she was safe until Baba turned to her directly.

“And how’s your professor doing? “ he asked casually.

Sharayu blinked. “Uh, which professor? “

Baba gave her a look. “The one who visited me in the hospital. “

Oh no.

Rutuja choked on her water. Arohi bit her lip to stop from laughing. Hriday, Vrushal, and Kunal exchanged looks, knowing very well that this was dangerous territory.

Sharayu forced a polite smile. “Oh, Satish Sir? He’s good. Busy with college work. “

“Hmm, “ Baba said thoughtfully. “He seems very… concerned about his students. “

“Yes, Baba, he is, “ she said quickly. “That’s why he’s the HOD. “

“Right, right. A very responsible man. “ Baba nodded, taking a sip of water. “He must have a very close bond with his students to come all the way to visit one in the hospital. “

Sharayu felt her friends mentally screaming for her.

Don’t panic. Don’t mess up.

She laughed lightly, hoping to brush it off. “Sir is strict but kind, Baba. He cares about his department. That’s all. “

Baba hummed. “I see. “ But his expression didn’t change.

Rutuja, being the chaos agent she was, decided to not let this moment pass. “Sharu, wasn’t Satish Sir also the one who helped you with that… extra assignment last month? “

Sharayu shot her a death glare.

Baba raised an eyebrow. “Oh? He did? “

Rutuja, I will kill you.

“Uh… yes, “ Sharayu said slowly, trying to recover. “But he does that for all students, Baba. He’s very involved in academics. “

Baba leaned back, observing her. “That’s good to know. “

The room fell into an awkward silence.

Then

Arohi, unable to hold back, kicked Sharayu’s foot under the table and muttered, “ Sharu, Baba’s turning into a detective. “

Baba caught that. “Hmm? What was that, Arohi? “

Arohi immediately straightened. “Nothing, Baba! Just saying your investigative skills are top-tier! “

Baba smirked. “Good to know you noticed. “

Sharayu wanted to die.

After a while, the conversation finally shifted away from Satish, and Sharayu let out a breath of relief.

But the moment Baba went to rest in his room, her friends pounced.

“ You are so doomed, “ Hriday whispered dramatically.

“Did you see how he was testing you? “ Gayatri added.

“ Forget that, “ Kunal said. “Did you notice how he said ‘responsible man’ like he was already making a character evaluation ? “

Vrushal smirked. “You better be careful, Sharu. Baba is in full-on spy mode now. “

Sharayu groaned, covering her face. “I know! Ugh, I told Satish not to come that day, but noooo, he had to be stubborn! “

Rutuja grinned mischievously. “Aww, but isn’t that why you love him? “

Sharayu grabbed a cushion and threw it at her face.

But her mind was racing.

Her father wasn’t the type to randomly dig into things unless he suspected something. And right now? He was definitely suspicious.

If she wasn’t careful, this secret would blow up in the worst possible way.

After what felt like an eternity, Sharayu finally stepped into the college corridor, inhaling deeply. The familiar sounds of chatter, hurried footsteps, and the occasional frustrated sigh of a student reminded her that life hadn’t stopped just because hers had been a whirlwind of hospitals and worry.

Her friends were already waiting for her outside their classroom.

“There she is! “ Rutuja declared dramatically, throwing her hands in the air. “The long-lost warrior returns! “

Before Sharayu could react, she was suddenly surrounded by her friends.

“Finally! “ Arohi sighed in relief. “We were starting to forget what you looked like. “

Kunal said. “Now that you’re back, we can finally get serious about exams. “

Gayatri scoffed. “As if we weren’t already drowning in stress. “

“Speaking of drowning, “ Vrushal smirked, “You missed Satish Sir’s last lecture. It was… interesting. “

Sharayu’s ears perked up at his name, but she played it cool. “What did I miss? “

Rutuja wagged her eyebrows. “Well, he was teaching ‘Exemptions under GST.’ But more importantly, the whole time, he kept glancing at your empty seat like a sad poet waiting for his muse. “

Sharayu shot her a warning look. “Stop exaggerating! “

“Oh no, she’s right! “ Arohi grinned. “He actually paused twice before continuing, as if contemplating whether to wait for you to miraculously appear! “

“I think he even sighed at one point, “ Kunal added, pretending to dramatically place a hand over his heart.

Kunal snickered. “So, tell us, Sharu. When is the wedding? “

Sharayu smacked Kunal’s arm and groaned. “You all are so annoying! “

But before they could continue their teasing, the bell rang, and everyone scurried inside. It was their last lecture of the day Satish Sir’s class.

The moment Satish walked in, the class went silent. Not because he demanded it but because he radiated authority.

Sharayu quickly took her seat, trying to act normal. She definitely wasn’t going to make eye contact with him.

Satish glanced across the class, his gaze briefly settling on her before he spoke.

“Since exams are approaching, I want all of you to focus. I don’t want any last-minute panic, so let’s make sure you understand everything. “

There was a collective groan from students who had already been panicking.

Satish smirked. “I can already see the stress on your faces. Don’t worry, I won’t overload you… much. “

A few nervous chuckles spread through the class.

“Before we move ahead, let’s quickly revise what we covered in the last lecture Exemptions under GST. “

Sharayu’s head snapped up in surprise. She knew Satish never repeated topics unless necessary.

And then

“Since some of you were absent, “ Satish continued, his tone pointed as his eyes flickered to her for just a second, “I’ll go over it briefly. “

Her friends immediately turned to look at her with knowing smirks.

Sharayu refused to react.

Satish turned to the board, writing in neat, bold letters:

GST Exemptions.

“As we discussed last time, exemptions under GST are given to certain goods and services to promote essential sectors and reduce tax burden in critical areas. These exemptions can be categorized into three main types absolute exemptions, conditional exemptions, and exemptions based on threshold limits. “

He paused and turned back to the class. “Now, someone remind me what’s the difference between absolute and conditional exemptions? “

A student in the front row hesitantly answered, “Absolute exemptions are where GST is completely removed from a product or service without any conditions. Conditional exemptions require certain criteria to be met before the exemption applies. “

Satish nodded. “Correct. And threshold exemptions can anyone explain? “

Hriday raised his hand. “They’re based on turnover limits, Sir. If a business earns below a specific threshold, they don’t have to register for GST or pay tax. “

“Exactly, “ Satish said, his gaze lingering on Hriday for a moment before shifting directly to Sharayu. “And what about services related to healthcare? Are they exempted? “

Tanvi straightened, clearing her throat. “Yes, Sir. Healthcare services provided by hospitals, doctors, and paramedics are exempt from GST because they fall under essential services. “

A small, approving smile touched Satish’s lips before he masked it with his usual professional expression. “Good. “

The moment Satish left the room, her friends pounced.

“Did you see that?! “ Arohi whisper-screamed.

“He literally revised the entire thing just for YOU! “ Rutuja added

Hriday grinned. “So, tell us, when is ‘Professor Sir’ taking you for extra lessons? “

Sharayu grabbed her water bottle. “One more word and I will throw this at you. “

Kunal snickered. “Worth it. “

As they walked out of the classroom, Sharayu sighed, knowing this was only the beginning

The weight of the day settled into Sharayu’s shoulders as she made her way through the quiet corridors of the faculty wing. It wasn’t a place students usually wandered without reason, but she had a reason. A very particular reason.

She hadn’t really planned to come here at least, that’s what she told herself. But after the teasing from her friends, after that class where his gaze had lingered on her more times than she cared to count, and after the overwhelming urge to just be with him, she found herself here, in front of his cabin.

Without knocking, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

Satish was behind his desk, his pen paused mid-air over a file as his sharp eyes lifted to meet hers. For a moment, silence stretched between them thick, charged, and unspoken. Then, a slow, knowing smirk curved his lips.

“Couldn’t stay away, could you? “ His voice was low, teasing, but there was something darker beneath it. Something wanting.

Sharayu locked the door behind her. “I had to see you. “

That smirk faltered for half a second just enough for her to catch the way his fingers tightened around his pen. “And here I thought you’d been avoiding me after all the attention you got in class today. “

Sharayu rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. “I was not avoiding you. And that was your fault. Who asked you to revise the topic just because I missed it? “

Satish leaned back in his chair, watching her with a dangerous glint in his eyes. “You think I did it just for you? “

She raised a brow. “Didn’t you? “

He tilted his head, the smirk returning in full force. “What if I did? “

Her stomach flipped. He was impossible. Unfair.

She stepped closer to his desk, resting her palms on the wooden surface. “You’re impossible. “

“And you, “ he murmured, eyes roaming over her face, “are breathtaking. “

Her breath hitched. She should be used to this by now the way he spoke to her when they were alone, the way his words held heat that made her insides twist. But every time, it was as if he set her on fire all over again.

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “ Baba kaise hai? “ His voice had softened, but the intensity remained.

Sharayu exhaled, collecting herself. “He’s better. Still weak, but recovering well. The doctors are positive. “

Satish nodded, his expression unreadable. “And you? Are you okay? “

She hesitated, the weight of the past week pressing against her chest. “I am now. “

Something in his gaze darkened. He stood up, coming around the desk until he was standing right in front of her. His fingers brushed her arm lightly, sending a shiver up her spine.

“You don’t have to pretend with me, Sharayu, “ he murmured, his voice dangerously close to her ear. “I know it wasn’t easy for you. “

She swallowed, tilting her head up to meet his gaze. “It wasn’t. But I had to be strong. For Aai, for Chaitanya… “ She paused. “For myself. “

Satish’s lips pressed into a thin line, his hand coming up to cradle her face. “You’re too strong for your own good sometimes. “

Sharayu huffed a soft laugh. “You make that sound like a bad thing. “

“It’s not, “ he admitted, his thumb grazing her cheek, “but I wish you’d let me carry some of your burden, too. “

Her heart clenched. “You already do. “

His jaw ticked, and then, without another word, he pulled her into him. His arms wrapped around her, strong and unyielding, and she melted into his warmth, her forehead resting against his chest.

“I missed you, “ she whispered against his shirt.

Satish let out a low chuckle, pressing a kiss to her hair. “That’s what I wanted to hear. “

She smacked his arm lightly, pulling back just enough to look up at him. “You know I missed you. “

He hummed, eyes tracing her face as if memorizing every detail. “Say it again. “

She rolled her eyes, but her lips twitched. “I missed you, Professor. “

Something flashed in his gaze at that something primal. His hands tightened around her waist, pulling her flush against him.

“You have no idea how much I missed you, “ he murmured, his lips dangerously close to hers.

Sharayu’s breath hitched. “Then show me. “

Satish didn’t need to be told twice.

His lips crashed onto hers, hungry and possessive. It wasn’t a soft kiss it was raw, filled with every unsaid word, every moment they’d been apart. She clutched his shirt, pulling him closer, her entire body igniting under his touch.

When they finally pulled apart, both breathless, he pressed his forehead against hers.

“I don’t know how much longer I can keep my hands off you in public, “ he muttered.

Sharayu smirked, running a finger down his chest. “Then I guess you’ll just have to suffer, Professor. “

He let out a groan. “You’re a menace. “

“And you love it. “

He sighed dramatically. “Unfortunately, I do. “

A knock on the door made them both freeze.

Sharayu pushed him away, frantically fixing her hair while Satish ran a hand over his face, looking far from professional.

“Who is it? “ he called, his voice still a little rough.

“Sir, the principal wants to see you, “ came a voice from outside.

Satish sighed, shooting Sharayu a look that screamed we’ll continue this later.

She smirked, grabbing her bag. “Go, Professor. Duty calls. “

He watched her walk to the door, shaking his head. “You will be the death of me. “

She winked before slipping out, leaving him standing there, still feeling the ghost of her lips on his.

The evening sun cast a golden glow over the college campus as Sharayu and her friends made their way toward the gate, their laughter echoing through the air. It had been a long day one filled with teasing, whispered jokes, and stolen glances in Satish’s direction that her friends did not let her live down.

“You should’ve seen your face, Sharayu, “ Rutuja cackled, nudging her. “When Sir looked directly at you during class today, I swear you forgot how to breathe. “

“I did not! “ Sharayu protested, rolling her eyes.

“Oh, please, “ Hriday chimed in. “Your mouth was slightly open, your pen stopped moving, and you were literally zoned out while he was talking about GST exemptions. “

Kunal snorted. “Honestly, I was half expecting him to walk up to your desk and ask, ‘Miss Sharayu, do I have your attention or should I make it more interesting for you?’ “

Everyone burst into laughter while Sharayu groaned. “You all are impossible! “

“Oh, we’re just getting started! “ Arohi smirked. And before Sharayu could react, Arohi suddenly pushed her hard.

It happened in a flash.

Sharayu lost her balance instantly, her body tipping backward, gravity pulling her down toward the hard pavement below. Her eyes widened in sheer panic as she flailed, bracing herself for impact

Only to land in the firm, unyielding grip of strong arms.

Everything stilled.

A distinct, musky cologne mixed with the faint scent of sandalwood filled her senses as she realized she wasn’t sprawled embarrassingly on the ground. Instead, she was pressed against the solid chest of a complete stranger.

His hands gripped her waist tightly, holding her with ease, his strength evident in the way he had caught her like she weighed nothing. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears as she slowly lifted her gaze to meet the stranger’s face.

A man tall, broad-shouldered, and undoubtedly in his late twenties looked down at her with a small, amused smirk playing on his lips. His dark brown eyes held something unreadable, something intriguing. A neatly trimmed beard framed his sharp jawline, and his slightly tousled hair added to his effortless charm.

For a brief moment, neither of them spoke. The world around them faded as the tension of the unexpected moment settled between them.

Then, he tilted his head slightly, his smirk deepening. “Well, that was dramatic. “

Sharayu blinked, still processing what had just happened. “Uh... “

The man chuckled, his grip on her waist loosening slightly, but he didn’t let go entirely. “You okay? “

She swallowed, finally regaining some control over her voice. “Y-Yeah. Thanks to you. “

“Good, “ he murmured. Then, as if remembering something, he leaned in just a little, his voice lowering. “Though, if you fall like that often, I’d recommend a helmet. “

Sharayu huffed, stepping out of his hold quickly, heat rising to her cheeks. “I don’t fall like that often! “

Behind her, her friends had gone completely silent, watching the scene unfold with wide eyes. And then

Hriday let out a slow whistle. “Well, well, well… who do we have here? “

The man turned his attention toward the group, his expression unreadable. He exuded an aura of quiet confidence, one that didn’t demand attention but somehow effortlessly commanded it.

Finally, he spoke. “Utkarsh. “

His voice was smooth, deliberate, like he chose each word carefully.

“Just… Utkarsh? “ Rutuja questioned, raising an eyebrow.

“For now, “ he said with a small, knowing smile.

Sharayu frowned slightly. For now? What kind of introduction was that?

“And what brings ‘just Utkarsh’ to our college? “ Vrushal asked, crossing his arms.

Utkarsh glanced at Sharayu briefly before looking back at them. “Passing through. “

Gayatri narrowed her eyes. “Passing through… our college? “

Utkarsh smirked again, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Why? Does it require special permission? “

Arohi grinned. “Not really, but your timing is interesting. “ She wiggled her eyebrows at Sharayu, making her groan internally.

Utkarsh chuckled. “Ah. I see. “ His gaze flickered back to Sharayu, something unreadable passing through his eyes. “You attract attention quite easily, don’t you? “

Sharayu stiffened. “I do not! “

He hummed, tilting his head. “Strange. Because in just a few seconds, I’ve already seen enough to know that you’re someone people can’t help but watch. “

Her breath hitched slightly. What kind of line was that?

Kunal let out an exaggerated cough. “Dude. That was smooth. “

Utkarsh’s lips curled into a smirk, but he said nothing.

Sharayu, still trying to process whatever this was, crossed her arms. “So, Utkarsh, are you going to keep being mysterious, or do you actually have a purpose here? “

Utkarsh chuckled softly, his gaze locking onto hers. “Oh, I have a purpose, alright. “

The way he said it sent a strange shiver down her spine.

But before she could ask what he meant, he took a step back, his hands still casually in his pockets. “It was nice catching you, Sharayu. “

Her breath caught at the way he emphasized the word catching.

With that, he turned and walked away, leaving behind a silence thick with curiosity, confusion, and something else something unspoken.

The moment he was out of sight, the group exploded.

“WHO WAS THAT?! “ Rutuja practically screamed.

Hriday grinned. “Forget that Sharayu, that was the most cinematic fall-and-catch I have ever seen in real life! “

Kunal snorted. “If I didn't know any better, I’d say the guy just walked straight out of a Bollywood movie. “

Arohi crossed her arms, looking suspicious. “And why was he looking at Sharayu like that?! “

Vrushal tapped his chin. “Yeah… and why did he talk like he knows something we don’t? “

Gayatri narrowed her eyes at Sharayu. “Girl. Spill. Did you know him? “

Sharayu, still staring at the path Utkarsh had taken, shook her head. “No. Never seen him before in my life. “

And yet…

His words lingered.

“I have a purpose, alright. “

What did he mean by that?

Satish was in his cabin, his fingers idly tapping against his desk as he went through some papers. His mind, however, wasn’t entirely on work. He had been waiting for Sharayu’s message. She had gone home with her friends, and he had expected a quick text or call but she had been unusually silent.

His phone buzzed.

He picked it up, expecting to see her name on the screen.

But it was an unknown number.

Frowning, he answered. “Hello. “

A low chuckle greeted him. “Well, well. The great Professor Rajvanshi. As sharp as ever. “

Satish’s brows furrowed. That voice… he knew that voice. It had been years, but some things never faded.

“…Utkarsh? “

A mocking hum. “Ah, you remember. I’m flattered. “

Satish leaned back in his chair, his grip on the phone tightening. “What do you want? “ His voice was cold, laced with restrained irritation.

Utkarsh sighed dramatically. “Straight to the point. You haven’t changed. But then again, I suppose patience isn’t your virtue, is it? “

Satish’s jaw clenched. Not with you.

There was a pause before Utkarsh continued, his tone deceptively casual. “I had an interesting encounter today. “

“I don’t care. “

Another chuckle. “Oh, but I think you will. “ A pause. “I caught something today. Something small. Something fragile. Fit perfectly in my arms, actually. “

Something inside Satish twisted at the way Utkarsh spoke like he was toying with him. His fingers curled into a fist against the desk.

Utkarsh exhaled, as if relishing in dragging this out. “You see, I was just minding my business when, out of nowhere, this delicate little thing practically fell into me. And I must say, the way she fit against me? Exquisite. “

Satish’s grip on the phone turned white-knuckled. His heartbeat quickened. His mind, racing. Who?

Utkarsh continued smoothly, his voice carrying an edge of mockery. “Ah, she was so light. So… breakable. Like she’d shatter if I wasn’t careful. Makes me wonder… “ He let the words hang, then smirked, “Does her so-called boyfriend even realize how easy it would be to “

“Utkarsh. “

The sheer authority in Satish’s voice made the air go sharp.

For a second, there was silence. Then, Utkarsh let out an amused laugh. “Ah. There it is. That temper of yours. “

Satish’s breaths were controlled, but just barely. “You’re testing my patience. “

“And you’re proving that you still lose it so easily. “

Satish closed his eyes briefly, reigning himself in. His mind went back to what Utkarsh had said. A girl. Small. Fragile. Fell into his arms.

His gut twisted with something dark. His instincts screamed at him. And then

Utkarsh chuckled again. “What’s really amusing is that she didn’t even tell you. “

Satish’s eyes snapped open. His pulse pounded.

“She fell into my arms, stayed there for a moment, let me hold her, and then walked away. And yet… she didn’t bother to tell her beloved about it? “ His tone turned cruel. “How interesting. “

Satish inhaled sharply, rage burning low in his chest. “You’re walking on thin ice, Utkarsh. “

Utkarsh hummed. “Oh, I think I’ll be just fine. But you… how does it feel? Knowing she chose not to tell you? “ He let the silence stretch before adding in a whisper, “Maybe you don’t own her as much as you think. “

Something inside Satish snapped.

His chair scraped against the floor as he stood up abruptly, his voice dangerously low. “Listen to me, and listen well. “

Utkarsh didn’t interrupt, which only meant he was waiting for his reaction.

Satish’s tone was ice. “I don’t know what sick game you’re playing, but you don’t speak about her like that. You don’t get to touch her, and you sure as hell don’t get to compare yourself to me. “

Utkarsh exhaled in amusement. “Ah. There it is. That possessiveness. “

Satish clenched his jaw, his other hand gripping the desk. He hated that Utkarsh had gotten under his skin. Hated that he even entertained the thought of Sharayu in another man’s arms.

Then Utkarsh spoke again, voice smooth, taunting.

“Tell me, Satish… does she even know who I am to you? “

Satish’s breath hitched for a fraction of a second.

And Utkarsh caught it.

A slow, satisfied smirk. “Ah. She doesn’t, does she? “

Satish gritted his teeth, his pulse thundering. This wasn’t just about Sharayu. It was deeper. And he had no doubt Utkarsh had every intention of making this worse.

Before Satish could say anything, Utkarsh chuckled darkly. “I suppose we’ll have plenty of time to catch up, won’t we? “

And then, he hung up.

Satish stared at the phone, his mind a storm of emotions rage, frustration, and a deep, unsettling worry.

Utkarsh was back.

Sharayu sighed as she unlocked her phone, scrolling through her notifications. The day had been exhausting, and all she wanted was to take a shower, eat something warm, and maybe just maybe talk to him. But as she walked into her building, her phone buzzed with a message.

Satish: Come to the café. Now.

She frowned. Now?

Her fingers hovered over the keyboard. She was about to ask why, but another message popped up.

Satish: I’m waiting.

Something felt… off.

Still, she grabbed her bag and headed out. The café was just down the street, a place they occasionally met when they could steal moments away from the world.

When she reached, she spotted him immediately. Satish was leaning against his bike, arms crossed, his jaw tight. He wasn’t in his usual relaxed stance his body was stiff, his eyes dark with something unreadable.

She took a deep breath and walked up to him. “Hey “

“You didn’t tell me, “ he cut her off, his voice even but sharp.

Sharayu blinked. “What? “

Satish exhaled sharply, pushing off his bike. He looked at her for a long moment before shaking his head. “You really weren’t going to tell me? “

Her frown deepened. “Satish, what are you talking about? “

His gaze flickered, like he was searching her face for something. Then he let out a humorless chuckle. “So, you really don’t think it’s important? “

Sharayu’s patience started to wear thin. “I don’t even know what you’re talking about! What thing am I supposed to tell you? “

He scoffed, running a hand through his hair. “Oh, I don’t know. Maybe the fact that you fell into someone’s arms today? Some stranger just happened to catch you? And you didn’t think I should know? “

Sharayu stared at him, speechless for a second. Then she let out a short, incredulous laugh. “You’re upset about that? “

Satish’s eyes darkened. “I’m upset that I had to hear it from someone else. “

She rolled her eyes. “Oh my god, Satish, it was nothing! Arohi pushed me, I lost balance, and some random guy caught me before I hit the ground. That’s it. “

His jaw clenched. “You don’t even know who he is. “

She threw her hands up. “Exactly! That’s the whole point! I don’t know him! He was just there! And you’re acting like I betrayed you or something! “

Satish exhaled, his fingers curling into fists at his sides. “He knows, Sharayu. “

That made her pause. “What? “

Satish met her gaze, his voice low and firm. “He knows about us. “

Her heart skipped a beat. “But… how? “

Satish looked away, his expression tight. “Because he called me and made sure I knew. “

Sharayu stared at him, stunned. “Wait he called you? But how does he even know you? “

Satish was silent for a beat too long.

That silence sent a ripple of unease through her.

She took a step closer. “Satish… who is he? “

His jaw ticked, but he didn’t answer.

Sharayu’s chest tightened. “You know him, don’t you? “

He let out a slow, controlled breath before muttering, “Utkarsh. “

The name meant nothing to her. “And that’s supposed to what? Mean something to me? “

Satish let out a bitter laugh. “Apparently not. “

She groaned, rubbing her temples. “Satish, why are you making such a big deal out of this? “

His head snapped up, eyes blazing. “Because he’s not just some guy, Sharayu! “ His voice was low but intense. “Because he wanted to make sure I knew. Because he enjoyed telling me how perfectly you fit in his arms. “

Sharayu’s stomach twisted, but she forced herself to remain calm. “And you believed him? You actually think there was something more? “

Satish clenched his jaw. “That’s not the point. “

“Then what is? “ she snapped. “Because from where I’m standing, it looks like you’re jealous over a complete accident! “

His eyes flared. “I’m not jealous. “

She laughed sharply. “Oh really? Because you’re acting exactly like a jealous idiot! “

Satish inhaled sharply through his nose, stepping even closer, his presence nearly overwhelming. “I’m not jealous, “ he repeated, voice lower. “I’m furious that he got close to you. That he knows about us. That he’s playing games, and you don’t even see it. “

Sharayu crossed her arms. “Maybe because there’s no game to see. Maybe because you’re making something out of nothing. “

He exhaled harshly, shaking his head. “You don’t know him like I do. “

“And I don’t care to! “ she shot back. “Because he doesn’t matter, Satish! What matters is us, and right now, you’re the problem. “

His brows furrowed, caught off guard.

She poked a finger at his chest. “You didn’t even ask me what happened. You just assumed I kept something from you. Do you even hear yourself? You’re interrogating me over something that wasn’t even in my control! Do you trust me or not? “

His lips parted, but he didn’t speak.

That silence hit her harder than anything else.

Her chest ached. She swallowed. “I can’t believe this, “ she whispered. “You’re actually doubting me over him. “

Satish shook his head, his expression flickering. “I don’t doubt you, Sharayu. I “ He exhaled, frustrated. “I just “

But he didn’t finish the sentence.

Because he didn’t know how to.

Sharayu took a step back, her throat tight. “I’m going home. “

His head snapped up. “Sharayu “

“No. “ She held up a hand. “I need space. And you need to figure out what you’re actually mad about. “

Satish clenched his fists, watching her turn around and walk away. Every fiber of him wanted to call out to her, to grab her wrist and not let her go like this.

But he didn’t.

Because he knew this time, he had messed up.

Satish rode home in silence, the city lights blurring past him, his mind drowning in the storm of his own thoughts. He had messed up. Badly.

The fight with Sharayu replayed in his head on a loop the hurt in her eyes, the way she took a step back, the cold finality in her voice when she told him she needed space. It made his chest feel unbearably tight.

As he pulled into the driveway of the Rajvanshi mansion, he killed the engine and sat there for a moment, gripping the handlebars of his bike. He ran a frustrated hand through his hair, exhaling harshly before forcing himself to get off and go inside.

The moment he stepped in, he was greeted by his mother’s keen gaze. She was sitting in the living room, her book open in her lap, but her eyes were locked onto him the second he entered.

“You’re late, “ she observed, closing her book.

Satish barely responded, just muttering, “Had work, “ before walking past her toward the stairs.

But his mother wasn’t the kind to let things slide. “Satish. “

He paused, his jaw tightening. He didn’t turn around. “Hmm? “

She watched him for a beat, then asked, “What happened? “

“Nothing, “ he said too quickly, too stiffly.

She raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been in a foul mood since you stepped in. That doesn’t look like ‘nothing’ to me. “

Satish exhaled sharply. “It’s nothing important, Maa. Just drop it. “

But she wasn’t buying it. She studied him, her sharp maternal instincts picking up on everything the tension in his shoulders, the way his fingers curled into fists. And then, as if something clicked in her mind, she narrowed her eyes.

“Is this about Sharayu? “

His entire body went rigid.

She sighed, setting her book aside. “Satish, I may not comment on things, but I see more than you think. “

He clenched his jaw. “Maa, please “

“You’re upset, “ she cut him off. “And knowing you, it can only be because of one person. “

Satish’s patience was wearing thin, but it wasn’t directed at his mother it was at himself. At his stupidity. At the way he had let his emotions get the better of him and hurt her.

His mother stood up, stepping closer. “Did you two fight? “

Satish let out a bitter chuckle. “If you can call it that. “

Her gaze softened. “What happened? “

He hesitated. He didn’t want to say it out loud because the moment he did, it would sound as stupid as it actually was. But his mother wasn’t going to let it go.

After a long silence, he muttered, “Utkarsh. “

His mother’s face darkened instantly. “That man? “

Satish nodded, his expression grim.

His mother inhaled sharply. “I don’t even need to hear the details to know he must have said something to provoke you. “

Satish exhaled, rubbing his face. “He called me. “

His mother’s brows furrowed. “Why? “

“To tell me that Sharayu fell into his arms today, “ Satish admitted, his voice laced with frustration. “That she fits perfectly there. That I should have seen how fragile she looked. “ His grip on the back of the couch tightened. “That my so-called girlfriend didn’t even bother to tell me. “

His mother’s lips pressed into a thin line, anger flashing in her eyes. “And you believed him? “

Satish’s jaw ticked. “No. But… I was angry that she didn’t tell me. That he knew before I did. “

His mother shook her head, disappointment clear in her eyes. “Satish, that man is vile. He enjoys playing with people’s minds, twisting words, and creating chaos. And you let him do exactly that. “

Satish remained silent.

His mother sighed, stepping closer. “I know what kind of person Utkarsh is, Satish. And I know what kind of person you are. You don’t get angry without reason but today, you did. You let your pride and jealousy get the best of you, and in doing so, you hurt the very person who means the most to you. “

Satish clenched his fists. “I didn’t mean to. “

“I know, “ she said gently. “But that doesn’t change the fact that you did. “

Satish swallowed hard, running a hand through his hair again. “I should’ve listened to her. “

His mother nodded. “Yes. You should have. “

Silence stretched between them. Then, softly, she asked, “Have you apologized? “

Satish exhaled. “Not yet. “

“Then what are you waiting for? “

He closed his eyes briefly before opening them again. “I don’t know how. “

His mother smiled a little. “Then start with the truth. “

Satish looked at her, a flicker of something uncertain in his gaze. But then, slowly, he nodded.

His mother patted his shoulder. “Go fix it, Satish. Before it’s too late. “

And with that, he turned on his heel and walked toward his room, his mind already racing with how he was going to make things right.

Satish knew he had messed up. He wasn’t the kind of man who let his emotions cloud his judgment, but today, he had let his insecurities and jealousy take control. And now, all he could think about was fixing things before the night ended.

He couldn’t let this fight stretch till morning.

The thought of Sharayu going to sleep upset, her heart heavy with anger and hurt, made his chest ache. He had never wanted to be the reason for her pain.

So, he did the only thing that felt right he went to her.

Standing outside her building, he called her. But, as expected, she didn’t pick up.

Satish scoffed under his breath, shaking his head. Stubborn woman.

He knew she had seen his name flash on the screen, and he knew her silence was deliberate.

So, he messaged.

“I know you’re awake. And I know you won’t pick up. But at least read this I’m outside. Look out of the window. “

He barely waited a few seconds before he saw the curtain in her window shift. And then, there she was, standing by the window, staring down at him. Even from this distance, he could see the slight hesitation in her gaze, the conflict between her anger and the undeniable pull between them.

Satish didn’t move, his eyes locked onto hers.

After what felt like forever, she exhaled and disappeared from the window. His heart pounded. Would she come down?

Then, the building’s main door opened, and his breath hitched.

And there she was.

But the moment he saw her, he went utterly, completely still.

She had come as she was.

Sharayu stood before him in the simplest yet most stunning form he had ever seen her. A small, loose black crop top that barely reached her waist, exposing just a sliver of her soft skin whenever she moved. Paired with grey cotton shorts, the kind that barely reached mid-thigh, showing off her long, slender legs.

His throat went dry.

He had never seen her like this before. Always in jeans, kurtis, and oversized t-shirts. Never this… casual. Never this undone.

And damn if it didn’t make him lose his mind.

Sharayu folded her arms, her eyes still holding a stubborn glint. “You wanted to talk? Talk. “

Satish blinked, snapping himself out of the trance she had unknowingly put him in. He let out a breath and took a step closer, his voice softer this time.

“I’m sorry. “

She didn’t respond, just looked at him expectantly.

He sighed. “Sharayu… I messed up. I let that bastard get into my head, and I took it out on you. That was wrong. “

Still, she said nothing.

Satish ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. “I should have trusted you. I do trust you. But the thought of him even speaking your name “ He cut himself off, his jaw tightening. “I got angry. And instead of handling it the right way, I lashed out at you. I hate that I made you feel like you had to defend yourself when you did absolutely nothing wrong. “

Sharayu shifted, the tension in her posture lessening just a little.

Encouraged, Satish took another step closer, lowering his voice. “I don’t want to fight with you, Jaan. Not over something so stupid. Not over him. We’re stronger than that, aren’t we? “

Finally, she sighed. “You behaved like an idiot, Satish. “

A small smile tugged at his lips. “I know. “

“And you hurt me. “

His heart clenched. “I know that too. And I hate myself for it. “

Sharayu stared at him for a long moment before finally, she let out a breath and looked away. “…I don’t like fighting with you either. “

Satish reached forward, his fingers grazing her wrist, testing the waters. When she didn’t pull away, he gently intertwined their fingers, squeezing lightly. “Then let’s not. Let’s make up, hmm? “

She looked down at their hands, then up at him. Her lips parted as if to say something, but before she could, Satish lifted their joined hands and pressed a soft, lingering kiss to her knuckles.

Sharayu’s breath hitched.

The air between them shifted from emotional to something else entirely.

Satish looked up at her through hooded eyes. “By the way… “ His voice dropped to a lower, more teasing tone. “You do realize you came down in this, right? “

She frowned. “What? “

His lips curved into a slow smirk. He deliberately let his gaze roam down her bare legs, the strip of skin visible between her crop top and shorts. His eyes gleamed with mischief as he murmured, “I’m having a really hard time concentrating right now, sweetheart. “

Sharayu’s eyes widened. And then heat exploded across her cheeks.

“Oh my God, “ she muttered, realizing what he meant. She immediately tried to pull away, but Satish was faster.

He tugged her forward, and in one smooth motion, she was pressed against his chest.

Satish’s arms wrapped around her waist, his nose grazing against her temple as he chuckled softly. “What happened, Jaan? You were standing here so confidently a minute ago. “

Sharayu’s fingers curled into his shirt. “Shut up. “

He grinned, his lips brushing against her ear. “Not a chance. “

Her blush deepened, and she swatted his arm, making him laugh. But then, his grip on her tightened ever so slightly, and his voice dipped into something more serious.

“I missed you today, “ he murmured, his fingers tracing light patterns on her waist. “And I hated that our night almost ended on a bad note. “

Sharayu softened against him. “…Me too. “

Satish smiled against her skin before pulling back just enough to cup her face. His thumb brushed over her cheek, his eyes dark, intense, unwavering.

“Let me make it up to you properly, “ he whispered.

And then he kissed her.

Not soft. Not tentative. But deep, possessive, consuming.

A kiss that spoke of every unsaid word, every ounce of regret, and every drop of love he had for her.

Sharayu melted into him, her arms wrapping around his neck as she kissed him back just as desperately.

The night air buzzed with electricity around them, but the only thing that mattered was this moment.

When they finally pulled away, breathless and flushed, Satish smirked, brushing his nose against hers.

“So… are we officially good now? “

Sharayu rolled her eyes, still dazed. “You’re insufferable. “

He chuckled. “And you’re adorable. “

She smacked his chest lightly, making him laugh again.

As Sharayu tried to pull away from his arms, still breathless and dazed from their kiss, he tightened his grip, refusing to let her escape so easily. His lips brushed against her ear as he whispered, “Where do you think you’re going, hmm? “

Sharayu squirmed, still feeling the warmth of his mouth on hers. “Home. It’s late. “

But Satish, being Satish, had no intention of letting her off the hook just yet.

His gaze lazily roamed down to her bare legs, the soft fabric of her crop top barely covering her waist. His fingers traced slow, feather-light circles on her hip as he smirked.

“You know, Jaan… you stepping out of your house like this “ He let out a deep hum, “ do you want me to go insane? “

Sharayu’s eyes widened. “Satish! “

His smirk widened at her reaction, thoroughly enjoying himself. “What? I’m just saying… I’ve never seen you in shorts before. Or such a tiny top. Makes a man wonder what other surprises you’re hiding. “

Sharayu’s face exploded into a deep shade of red.

She smacked his arm, struggling to escape his hold. “Stop it! “

But Satish wasn’t one to stop when he was having this much fun.

He leaned in, his voice dropping to a teasing murmur, “Did you come down in this on purpose? Trying to test my self-control, are we? “

Her jaw dropped. “Oh my God, NO! I didn’t even think about it! I just “ She groaned, her blush deepening. “I just came in whatever I was wearing, okay? It’s not a big deal! “

But Satish, being the menace he was, shook his head dramatically. “No, no, this is a big deal, sweetheart. Because now I have a very important question. “

She narrowed her eyes. “What question? “

His smirk turned wicked as he whispered, “What do you wear when you sleep? “

“SATISH! “

His laughter rumbled through his chest as she smacked his arm again, her entire face practically glowing red.

Sharayu glared at him, pointing a finger at his chest. “You! Are! Impossible! “

Satish chuckled, catching her hand and pressing a slow, lingering kiss to her palm. His voice softened, teasing but sincere. “And yet… you still love me. “

Sharayu huffed, crossing her arms. “Not right now, I don’t. “

His smirk grew. “Liar. “

She turned away in a futile attempt to hide her flustered state, but Satish caught her wrist and spun her back to face him.

His voice turned husky as he murmured, “Say it. Say you love me. “

Sharayu’s breath hitched at the sudden intensity in his gaze.

For a moment, all the teasing melted away, replaced by the raw, undeniable pull between them.

She swallowed, her voice coming out softer than she intended. “I love you, idiot. “

Satish smiled a slow, utterly devastatingly beautiful smile.

“And I love you more. “

Then, before she could react, he tilted her chin up and kissed her again slow, deep, and utterly consuming.

By the time they pulled away, Sharayu was breathless, her mind spinning.

And Satish? Well, he was grinning like the devil himself.

“Now, about those sleeping outfits… “

“SATISH, I SWEAR “

Satish was having way too much fun with this.

As Sharayu stood there, still red-faced and flustered from his teasing, he took out a small ice cream cup from a bag he had hidden behind him.

Her eyes widened the moment she saw it. Her favorite flavor.

“You… you brought this for me? “ she asked, momentarily forgetting her embarrassment.

Satish smirked, holding it just out of her reach. “Of course, Jaan. I knew you’d be grumpy after our little fight. “

Sharayu’s lips parted, a mix of guilt and warmth filling her chest. But just as she was about to take it, Satish pulled it back, mischief dancing in his eyes.

“But before I give it to you, “ he continued, voice dripping with amusement, “I have one very, very important question. “

Sharayu narrowed her eyes, already sensing trouble. “What question? “

His smirk deepened as he leaned in closer, his voice a low murmur, “After we get married, are you still going to walk around in these tiny shorts and crop tops at home? “

Sharayu choked on air.

“W-what?! “

Satish grinned. “What? I’m just curious. Because if this is your usual nightwear, I might have to rethink my work schedule. No way I’d leave for work when my wife is prancing around like this. “

Her eyes widened. “I DO NOT PRANCE! “

Satish burst into laughter. “Oh, you totally do. And imagine me, coming home after a long day at work, tired, exhausted, and then I see my beautiful wife in these adorable little outfits… “ He sighed dramatically, placing a hand over his heart. “I might just quit my job, honestly. “

Sharayu’s jaw dropped. “You are impossible! “

Satish tilted his head, pretending to think. “Although… I wouldn’t mind if you only wore them for me. Just me. No one else gets to see, hmm? “

Her entire face burned.

“SATISH! “

He chuckled, finally handing her the ice cream. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop… for now. “

She snatched it from his hand with a glare but couldn’t hide the tiny smile forming on her lips.

As she took her first bite, Satish watched her with a satisfied expression. “See? I knew this would calm my angry little wife-to-be. “

Sharayu froze mid-bite. “I I’m not your wife yet! “

Satish shrugged, looking completely smug. “Yet. “

Sharayu groaned, taking another spoonful of ice cream to distract herself from the butterflies in her stomach.

And Satish?

Well, he was already planning how to tease her even more.

Sharayu sighed, her face still flushed from Satish’s teasing, but the ice cream in her hand was doing wonders in calming her nerves. She took another spoonful, enjoying the cold sweetness melting on her tongue.

Satish, still standing close, watched her intently, his eyes gleaming with amusement and something deeper something that made her heart pound a little faster.

After a moment, she hesitated, then dipped the spoon into the ice cream and held it up to him.

“Here, “ she said softly, avoiding his gaze.

Satish raised an eyebrow, a slow smirk tugging at his lips. “Feeding me now, are we? “

She rolled her eyes. “Just eat before it melts, idiot. “

He chuckled but leaned in, parting his lips to take the bite. But just as the spoon was about to reach his mouth, he abruptly grabbed her wrist, holding it in place.

Sharayu gasped as his grip tightened just enough to make her feel his warmth.

His eyes darkened slightly, lips hovering over the spoon but not taking the bite yet. Instead, he let his gaze drift back to hers, intense and unwavering.

“You know, Jaan, “ he murmured, his voice low and teasing , “if you wanted to feed me, you could’ve just used your fingers. “

Sharayu’s breath hitched. Oh.

Her mind went completely blank for a second, her fingers gripping the spoon tighter.

“S-Satish, “ she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

He finally took the bite , his lips grazing the spoon ever so slightly before he pulled back, tongue flicking out briefly to catch the remnants of the ice cream.

Sharayu’s knees nearly gave out.

Satish saw it of course, he did. And he smirked like he had just won the greatest battle.

“Delicious, “ he murmured, licking his lips slowly. “But you know what would be sweeter? “

She swallowed hard. “What? “

His grip on her wrist loosened, only for him to slide his fingers down her arm, tracing a featherlight path that sent shivers through her entire body.

“You, “ he whispered.

Her breath caught in her throat.

His words, his touch, his everything was driving her insane, and he knew it.

She opened her mouth to say something anything but before she could, Satish leaned in even closer, his voice a velvet murmur against her ear.

“I’d rather taste you than this ice cream, Jaan. “

Boom.

Sharayu nearly dropped the cup in her hand.

She stepped back quickly, her entire face burning. “Y-you are the worst! “

Satish chuckled, eyes smoldering as he watched her flustered state. “Am I? “

She huffed, glaring at him, but it was ruined by how red her cheeks were.

“Yes! “ she snapped, turning on her heel. “And you’re not getting another bite! “

Satish laughed, catching her wrist again before she could escape.

“Fine, fine, “ he said, tugging her back slightly. “But at least let me taste something else. “

Before she could protest, he leaned down and pressed a soft, lingering kiss on the corner of her lips.

Sharayu’s brain short-circuited.

His lips were warm , teasing , and completely unfair.

When he pulled away, his eyes held a victorious glint.

“There, “ he murmured. “Much sweeter than ice cream. “

Sharayu let out a tiny squeak and smacked his chest before storming off , heart racing in her chest.

Satish grinned, watching her go.

Satish was still grinning, the taste of victory sweet on his lips as he watched Sharayu stomp away in embarrassment. His phone buzzed in his pocket, and without checking the caller ID, he picked it up, still in a teasing mood.

“Missing me already, Jaan? “ he drawled, expecting Sharayu’s flustered voice.

Instead, a cold chuckle echoed through the receiver.

“Disgusting, “ a voice sneered.

Satish’s smirk vanished instantly. His expression turned sharp, jaw tightening.

“Ah, “ he said, his voice dropping an octave. “And here I thought I’d blocked all the pests from my life. “

Utkarsh chuckled, but there was a mocking edge to it. “Guess you missed one. “

Satish leaned against his bike, rubbing his temple. “Trust me, I’ll correct that mistake very soon. “

“But before that, “ Utkarsh continued, his tone dripping with disdain, “let me just say what a pathetic little show that was. “

Satish’s fingers curled into a fist. “Excuse me? “

“Your so-called ‘love story,’ “ Utkarsh scoffed. “So desperate. So... childish. The way she blushed, the way you touched her pathetic. Creepy, even. The way she looked so tiny and helpless in your arms... “ He laughed under his breath. “Do you really think it’s love? She’s just a fragile little thing playing grown-up. You “

“Watch your mouth. “

Utkarsh stopped mid-sentence.

Satish’s tone was lethal now, devoid of amusement.

“Before you spew another word, think carefully, Utkarsh, “ he said, his voice calm but deadly cold. “Because the only thing pathetic here is you, wasting your breath on something that’s none of your damn business. “

Utkarsh let out another chuckle, but it was forced this time. “You’re getting worked up over nothing “

“Nothing? “ Satish laughed, but it held no humor. “That ‘nothing’ is the only woman I love. And as for what we share? “ His lips curled into a smirk full of arrogance. “Well, you wouldn’t understand, would you? After all, it’s not something a lowlife like you could ever experience. “

Utkarsh’s breath hitched for a second before he scoffed. “You talk big for someone who’s sneaking around like a coward. “

Satish’s smirk didn’t waver. “Sneaking? No, no. I’m just keeping what’s mine away from filth like you. “

Utkarsh gritted his teeth. “You think you own her? “

Satish chuckled darkly. “Oh no. She owns me. But I wouldn’t expect you to understand devotion. You’re too busy lurking in the shadows, hoping for scraps. “

Silence.

Satish could practically hear Utkarsh’s blood boiling through the phone.

“Now, if you’re done wasting my time, “ Satish continued, checking his watch lazily, “I have better things to do. Like, say… go back to my girlfriend, who, by the way, melts in my arms. “ He smirked. “You must’ve seen that quite clearly, didn’t you? “

A loud beep.

Call disconnected.

Satish grinned in pure satisfaction.

“That’s what I thought, “ he muttered, sliding his phone back into his pocket before heading toward Sharayu.

The moment Satish stepped into his house, a tired sigh left his lips. He tossed his keys onto the table and loosened his tie, running a hand through his hair. Today had been… eventful, to say the least. But just as he was about to sink into the couch, his phone vibrated in his pocket.

Sharayu: Ping me when you reach home.

A small, involuntary smile tugged at his lips. Just one message from her, and the irritation from his conversation with Utkarsh vanished into thin air.

Satish: I’m home, sweetheart.

Within seconds, the typing bubbles appeared.

Sharayu: Good. Now, go to sleep. You need rest.

Satish: Are you my girlfriend or my personal doctor?

Sharayu: Both. Now shut up and sleep.

Satish: Only if you dream about me.

Sharayu: Ugh. Good night!

He chuckled at her reply.

The classroom buzzed with quiet concentration as students bent over their notebooks, solving the problems Satish had given them. He sat at his desk, pretending to be focused on some papers but in reality… his attention was somewhere else.

Or rather, on someone else.

Sharayu.

She was sitting in the third row, biting her lower lip in concentration, her fingers lazily twirling a strand of her hair. It was a habit. A small, innocent one. But damn if it didn’t test his patience every single time.

His phone was in his hand before he even realized it.

Satish: Stop twirling your hair. It’s distracting.

He watched her glance down at her phone, her brows knitting in confusion before she typed back.

Sharayu: You’re not even looking at me!

His smirk widened.

Satish: I don’t have to. I know you’re doing it.

Sharayu: Creep.

Satish: Your creep, sweetheart.

Sharayu giggled at her screen, but the moment she felt someone staring at her, she turned it into a cough. The student next to her raised an eyebrow, clearly suspicious.

But before she could compose herself, Satish decided to strike.

“Miss Sharayu, “ he called out loudly, his tone far too casual. “If you have something to share with the class, please enlighten us. “

The entire room went silent.

Sharayu’s eyes snapped up to meet his betrayal written all over them.

“I hate you, “ she muttered under her breath, gripping her pen so hard it might snap.

Satish leaned back in his chair, enjoying her flustered state. “I’m waiting, Miss Sharayu. “

She narrowed her eyes at him, then cleared her throat. “I was just… uh… going through the problem, Sir. “

Satish raised an eyebrow, pretending to consider her excuse. “Is that so? “

“Yes, “ she said through gritted teeth.

He hummed. “Alright then. Since you’re so ‘focused,’ why don’t you come up and solve the next problem on the board? “

Her eyes widened in horror.

“Right now? “

“Yes, “ he said smoothly, folding his arms. “Unless, of course, your mind was elsewhere. “

Sharayu clenched her jaw. Oh, he was enjoying this too much.

But she wouldn’t let him win. Not today.

Pushing her chair back, she marched up to the board and took the chalk, muttering curses under her breath the entire way.

As she solved the case study, Satish rested his chin on his hand, watching her with amusement.

Utterly adorable.

When she finished, she turned to look at him, smugly raising her eyebrows.

He simply smirked. “Well done, Miss Sharayu. You may go back to twirling your hair now. “

Sharayu almost threw the marker’s cap at him.

Hriday, Rutuja, and Kunal were already dying of silent laughter.

The lecture had finally ended, and Sharayu stomped back to her seat, still fuming from Satish’s teasing. The audacity! If she could, she would have marched back up to him and wiped that smug grin off his face. But she knew better than to provoke him further especially in front of everyone.

Just as she dropped into her chair, pulling out her notebook to at least pretend to focus, the classroom door swung open.

A hush fell over the room as Professor Hrishikesh entered, followed closely by another man.

Satish, who had been gathering his notes at the desk, paused. His jaw clenched almost imperceptibly, but he said nothing.

Sharayu, noticing the sudden tension, turned her head to see who had arrived.

And then her stomach dropped.

Utkarsh.

He walked in, casual yet deliberate , his eyes sweeping over the class before stopping for a fraction of a second on her. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, one that made her skin crawl.

Hrishikesh cleared his throat, addressing Satish first. “Rajvanshi Sir, sorry to interrupt your lecture, but I needed to introduce our new faculty member to the students. “

Sharayu’s eyes flickered toward Satish. He hadn’t moved. His face was impassive, but she could feel the storm raging beneath.

Hrishikesh gestured toward Utkarsh. “Everyone, meet Professor Utkarsh Kulkarni. He will be teaching Economics for the rest of the semester since Professor Mehta has taken maternity leave. “

The class murmured in curiosity, some nodding in acknowledgment.

But Sharayu? She felt her breath hitch.

Satish still hadn’t said a word.

And Utkarsh? He was enjoying this.

Sharayu’s fingers tightened around her pen, an uneasy feeling settling in her chest.

Professor Hrishikesh turned to Utkarsh with a polite smile. “You can interact with the students properly in your first lecture tomorrow, but for now, I just wanted them to know their new professor. “

Utkarsh nodded, offering the class a charming yet unsettling smile. “I look forward to teaching you all. “

Then, as if it were the most natural thing in the world, his gaze drifted toward Satish.

“Rajvanshi Sir, “ he said smoothly, “I hope I’ll have the pleasure of working alongside you. “

Sharayu noticed how Satish’s grip on his notebook tightened.

But he still didn’t say a word.

Hrishikesh, oblivious to the tension, nodded and clapped Utkarsh on the shoulder. “Alright, let’s not keep Rajvanshi Sir from his work. We’ll head to the staffroom now. “

With that, the two professors turned and exited the classroom.

The door clicked shut.

The silence in the room was deafening.

Sharayu’s heart hammered in her chest as she slowly turned her gaze to Satish.

He was standing still , staring at the closed door, his expression unreadable.

But Sharayu knew him.

She could see the quiet fury simmering beneath that calm exterior.

This was bad.