"Zoya, you go get ready," I told her, gently nudging her towards the bedroom. "I'll take care of the rest."

She looked at me, hesitating for a moment, then nodded. "Okay, but if anything burns, just call me."

"Oh please babe... I'm better at this .. " I chuckled, watching her retreat to the bedroom.

As I finished setting the table and making sure everything was in order, I couldn't help but think about how much this meant for her.

Zoya had always been a filial girl..someone who valued family above all else.

Zoya, always giving her best, always striving to make everyone around her happy.

A thought struck me, and I quickly retrieved a small velvet box from my bag, a gift I'd brought for her from my flight trip to Dubai.

This seemed like the perfect time.

With the box in hand, I headed towards the bedroom.

The door was slightly ajar, and I peeked inside to find Zoya in front of the mirror, adjusting a delicate nose pin.

She rarely wore it, saying it was uncomfortable, often saying they were itchy or uncomfortable, but I always thought they suited her perfectly.

There was something undeniably graceful and traditional about her appearance with the nose pin, a look that complemented her in the most enchanting way.

I found myself mesmerized by her reflection in the mirror, her delicate features framed by her dark, wavy hair.

In that moment, I was completely smitten, overwhelmed by how beautiful she looked. She was already stunning to me every day, but seeing her like this, putting in the effort to impress my parents, made my heart swell with love and admiration.

As I approached her, she turned towards me, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Oh! I’m so excited, Adi,” she said, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm..." How do I look?"

My God, this woman is so gorgeous and so cute, I thought to myself, feeling my heart skip a beat.

She looked at me expectantly, her fingers playing nervously with the edge of her dupatta.

"Stunning..." I stepped closer, "But I think you're missing something."

She frowned slightly, looking down at her outfit. "What do you mean?"

I walked over to her, the box in my hand. "I got you a little something," I said, opening the box to reveal a pair of silver jhumke.

They were delicate and intricate, just like her, and I knew they would complement her perfectly.

Her eyes widened, and she looked up at me in surprise. "Adi, they're beautiful," she whispered, her voice filled with awe.

"I thought they would look perfect on you," I said, taking the earrings out of the box. "May I?"

She nodded, taking off the earrings she was wearing.

I carefully placed the earrings on her, watching as they dangled gracefully against her neck.

"They're perfect.... " Her murmured smile made me smile too.

I smiled, feeling a swell of affection for her. "You look beautiful, Zoya. My parents are going to adore you."

She took a deep breath, her fingers brushing against the earrings. "I hope so. I just want everything to go well."

"It will.." I pulled her into a gentle hug, kissing the top of her head..."and I'm right here with you ...."

“I can’t calm my nerves,” she admitted, a small, anxious smile playing on her lips...and before I could say anything, she grabbed my face and pulled me in for a soft kiss.

Her lips were warm and tender against mine, and I felt a surge of love and protectiveness wash over me.

"Feeling any better, shortcake?" I asked, raising an eyebrow, mischief dancing in my eyes.

She shook her head, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Na-uh... I might need more," she teased, her voice reaching my spine.

I didn't need any more encouragement. I captured her lips again, this time in a deep, lingering kiss. My hands gently cupped her face, my fingers threading through her hair as I pressed her closer. Her arms wrapped around my neck, pulling me in with a need that matched my own.

"Let me taste you, shortcake," I murmured against her lips, my voice husky with desire. "Before my parents come in and I have to torture myself with the inability but the need to kiss you..."

She responded with a soft moan, her body melting into mine. I deepened the kiss, savoring the sweetness of her lips and the way she responded to my touch. Her hands roamed over my back, sending shivers down my spine.

We broke apart just enough to catch our breath, our foreheads resting against each other.

"Gosh! I love the way you kiss," she gasped, her breath coming in quick, shallow bursts.

I pulled her closer, my hands gripping her tighter as I drank in the sight of her flushed cheeks and bright eyes.

I kissed her temple, then her cheeks, savoring the softness of her skin. Finally, I rested my forehead against hers again...holding the moment, feeling the connection between us pulse with electricity.

But my desires were too strong to resist. I couldn't help myself—I grabbed her again, pulling her body flush against mine as I captured her lips in a fierce, hungry kiss. Our mouths collided with an intensity that had the power to break me, and her arms wound around my neck, drawing me even closer.

I deepened the kiss, my hands roaming over her back and pulling her closer still, if that were even possible.

Her fingers tangled in my hair, tugging slightly as she pressed herself against me, her body responding to every movement of my lips.

I could feel the heat between us, the urgent need in every kiss, every touch.

When we finally broke apart, she pushed me playfully, panting as she looked in the mirror. "You messed up my hair!! Adiiii!!" she whined, but there was a sparkle in her eyes that told me she wasn't really angry.

"Sorry, love," I said with a grin, hugging her from the side. "I think you look gorgeous like this."

She frowned at her reflection, trying to fix her messy waves. I turned her to face me and carefully ran my fingers through her hair, smoothing out the tangles I had created.

Her hair felt silky and soft under my fingers, as I took my time.

I murmured, tucking a loose strand behind her ear. "Perfect."

~~
As the doorbell rang, Zoya took a deep breath, smoothing down her dress one last time. I could see the slight nervousness in her eyes, but I gave her a reassuring smile. "Ready?" I asked, taking her hand.

She nodded, squeezing my hand gently. "Mm-hmm."

When my parents came inside...the warmth of their smiles immediately eased some of the tension in the house.

My mother's eyes were lighting up as she took in the sight of Zoya. "Zoya, it's so lovely to finally meet you," she said, taking Zoya's hands in hers. Her eyes sparkled with genuine warmth...enveloping Zoya in a warm hug.

"Thank you, Auntie. It’s so good to see you too..."

She turned to my father, who gave her a respectful nod and a smile.

"Salaam walaikum, beta," he greeted, his voice deep and kind.

Zoya smiled warmly, stepping forward. "As-salaam walaikum, Uncle," she replied, her tone respectful yet friendly.

My father's pleasantries made me realize, more poignantly than ever, that Zoya and I came from two different cultural backgrounds.

Yet, in this moment, any differences seemed to melt away.

As we moved further into the house, my father took in the surroundings, his eyes crinkling at the corners in approval. "Now...it does look like you've made a beautiful home here, Cheeku." he said, turning to me with a nod.

"Thanks, Pa," I replied, feeling a swell of pride.

I noticed Zoya's gaze drifting towards me, her eyes reflecting the same sentiment.

Just then, Zoya leaned in close to my ear, her voice teasing. "Cheeku? Really?" she giggled, poking fun at my childhood nickname, and we joined after them.

As the dinner progressed, the conversation flowed easily. My father, ever the raconteur, regaled us with stories from his youth, his deep voice carrying a jovial tone that filled the room with laughter. "And that's how I ended up with a broken arm and a lifelong ban from the local cricket club!" he finished, grinning broadly.

Zoya laughed along, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I can't imagine you ever getting into trouble, Uncle," she teased lightly, her comfort growing with each passing moment.

My father chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, I had my fair share of mischief, Zoya. But those days are long behind me."

Zoya leaned forward, a genuine admiration in her eyes. "Actually, Uncle, I was looking into your firm's history the other day. I was amazed by your track record. The success rate is truly impressive. It's clear you've built an outstanding reputation."

"Oh! Thank you bete....I didn't realise you'd be so interested in my firm." He smiled.

Just then, the door opened and my younger brother, Arjun, walked in. Dressed sharply in a suit, he looked every bit the successful lawyer he was. "Sorry I'm late," he apologized, making his way into the living room.

I stood up, smiling broadly. "Come on in, Arjun. Zoya, this is my brother, Arjun. Arjun, meet Zoya."

Arjun's eyes lit up with recognition and delight. "Oh, hey! Beautiful... Woah, bhai!! I've never seen such a beautiful woman..."

Before he could say more, I picked up a breadstick and tossed it towards him, my possessiveness kicking in. "Watch it, Arjun," I warned, though my tone was more playful than serious.

"Adi? Stop fighting, you two! It’s not even been a minute," Maa interrupted, shaking her head in exasperation.

"It’s not even been a minute and he’s already flirting with my girlfriend, Maa," I said, rolling my eyes.

Arjun laughed, catching the breadstick mid-air. "I'm not flirting with her. I'm just telling you that you, my elder brother, are a sly dog!" He winked at Zoya, making her giggle.

"Alright, alright," Maa said, her voice carrying a note of authority. "No more teasing."

Arjun walked over to Zoya, extending his hand. "It’s really nice to meet you, Zoya. I’ve heard a lot about you."

Zoya shook his hand, smiling warmly.

Aditya's told me a lot about you as well. I hear you're quite the hotshot lawyer."

Arjun laughed, a modest blush creeping up his cheeks. "I do my best. But it sounds like you were just complimenting our father's firm. He's the real legend around here."

Our father waved his hand dismissively, but it was clear he was pleased with the compliment. "Arjun's being modest. He's made quite a name for himself in his own right."

As Arjun joined us, the conversation picked up where it had left off, seamlessly weaving in new stories and anecdotes.

Zoya’s ease with my family filled me with a deep sense of contentment.

She fit right in, her laughter and genuine interest making the evening even more special.

I noticed my father's occasional glances at Zoya, during the dinner, a mix of curiosity and perhaps a touch of admiration in his eyes. It was subtle, but I sensed that he was beginning to see what I saw in her.

Meanwhile, my mother was already deep into another conversation with Zoya.

Zoya was taking out the kulfi from the freezer, her face glowing with a soft smile that made my heart skip a beat. Arjun and I were clearing the table, and I noticed Arjun's eyes light up as he saw her.

"Let me take that for you," Arjun said, reaching for the kulfi tray. "You go ahead and sit down, Zoya."

She handed him the tray, smiling gratefully. "Thanks, Arjun."

Arjun, never missing a beat, grinned and said, "Gosh! How does Adi bhai survive? If I got to see your smile this often, I'd probably die of happiness."

Zoya blushed, a light laugh escaping her lips. I felt a pang of possessiveness and decided it was time to intervene.

"Alright, Romeo," I said, stepping between them and playfully nudging Arjun away from Zoya. "You've had your fun. Now, why don't you go set the table for dessert?"

Arjun chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Just appreciating your girlfriend, Bhai. No harm in that."

"Uh-huh... let's keep that to the minimum."

Arjun raised his hands in mock surrender, but I could see the twinkle in his eye that promised more teasing.

As we moved to the dessert table, Arjun leaned towards Zoya, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Zoya, have you ever considered how different your life could be if you'd met me first? I mean, I can cook too, you know," he said with a wink.

Zoya laughed, playing along. "Oh, really? What can you cook?"

"Well, I'm great at making cereal," Arjun replied, grinning widely. "And instant noodles. Pretty impressive, right?"

I chuckled at the exchange but couldn't resist giving Arjun a playful shove. "Stop trying to steal my girlfriend, Arjun."

Arjun later...on the table noticed Zoya's hands as she reached for her glass of water.

"Wow, Zoya, even your hands are so pretty," Arjun remarked, taking her hand gently and examining it with exaggerated admiration. "Aditya, how do you handle all this beauty? I'd be terrified of losing her."

I shot Arjun a warning glance, but he continued, undeterred.

Arjun laughed, clearly enjoying the game. "I'm just appreciating your good fortune, Bhai," he teased. Then, with a mischievous glint in his eye, he added, "You know, Zoya, if you ever get tired of Adi's possessiveness, you can always come to me. I promise, I won't be so clingy."

"Arjun...do you ever stop?" Zoya laughed.

"Your are taking me as a joke, aren't you?"

"I mean... " She held back her laugh and smiled, "you're leaving me with no other choice."

He handed Zoya the glass, saying, "You know, Zoya, if Adi ever gives you a hard time, just call me. I’m great at listening—and giving foot massages."

Zoya giggled, shaking her head. "I think I'll stick with Adi for now, but I'll keep your offer in mind."

That did it.

Before I knew it, I was on my feet, chasing after Arjun, who bolted from his seat with a laugh. "That's it, Arjun! You're asking for it!" I called out, trying to keep a straight face.

Arjun darted around the coffee table, laughing as he tried to stay out of my reach. "Hey, I'm just stating the obvious! It's not my fault you're dating a goddess!"

I lunged, but Arjun ducked, running towards the hallway. Zoya watched us, her laughter mingling with the sound of our footsteps.

Whoa, whoa! Just kidding, just kidding!"

Finally, I cornered him by the stairs, grabbing him by the arm and playfully wrestling him to the ground. "Alright, you've had your fun," I said, breathless but laughing. "Now apologize to my girlfriend for being such a flirt."

"Okay, okay!" Arjun gasped between laughs. "Zoya, I'm sorry for being an incorrigible flirt. But can you blame me? You're just too easy to compliment!"

Zoya, standing in the doorway with a smile, shook her head. "Apology accepted, Arjun.... Just don't flirt with me in front of Your angry elder brother." She laughed.

I helped Arjun up, both of us still chuckling.

Later in the night, after the dinner and before heading to the room, I had a brief conversation with my mother about the sleeping arrangements.

I could see she was a bit uneasy about Zoya and me sharing a room while they were visiting.

"Aditya," my mom started gently, pulling me aside. "I was thinking, maybe it would be better if you and Zoya slept in separate rooms while we are here. Just for the sake of appearances."

I knew she meant well, but I also knew how important it was for Zoya and me to maintain our routines and comfort, especially in our own home. "Mom, I understand where you're coming from," I said, trying to keep my tone respectful. "But Zoya and I live together. This is our home, and we're used to being together."

She sighed, clearly torn. "I know, Cheeku. It's just... people of our generation sometimes find it hard to accept these things. I'm not saying you should change anything about your life, just... maybe be mindful of how it looks...."

I nodded, appreciating her attempt to balance her concerns with respect for our choices. "I get that, Maa. And I respect your views. But Zoya and I......We've built a life together, and it's important for us to continue living that way, even when you and Pa are visiting."

She looked at me, her eyes softening. "You're right, Adi. I don't want to make Zoya uncomfortable or feel unwelcome. I just worry, that's all."

"I know you do, Mom," I replied, giving her a reassuring smile. "But Zoya and I will be discreet. We'll make sure to be respectful of your presence here."

"It's not just about discretion, Adi. It's about respect and tradition. Your father might not say it, but he has certain expectations."

"I understand that, Mom," I said gently. "But Zoya is a part of my life now. She's not just my girlfriend; she's my partner. It's important for us to be together...It's just... I think it's important for us to be true to how we live our lives."

Maa looked at me for a long moment, her expression a mix of concern and acceptance. "You're right. I see how happy she makes you, and that's what matters most. Just... be mindful, okay?"

"I promise," I said, feeling relieved that we had reached an understanding. "And thank you for understanding."

As I opened the door, I found Zoya already changed into her night suit, looking comfortably settled. She looked up at me with a curious smile.

"Hey," she greeted, her eyes softening as she saw me.

"Hey," I replied, walking over to the dresser to get my fresh boxers. "I have to tell you something."

She tilted her head slightly, curiosity evident in her eyes. "What is it?"

I hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. "So, Maa suggested that we don't sleep together while they're here. She said it would be better, at least while they're home."

Zoya's smile faltered slightly, a flicker of concern crossing her face. "Oh," she said softly, looking down at her hands. "I see."

I quickly moved to sit beside her on the bed, taking her hand in mine. "Hey, it's not what you think," I said, squeezing her hand gently. "She doesn't have a problem with us living together. I explained everything to her, and I told her that I would be staying here with you."

Her eyes met mine, a mixture of relief and uncertainty. "You did?"

I nodded, leaning in to kiss her forehead. "Of course. You're the most important person in my life, shortcake. I want to be with you, and I made sure she understands that."

She smiled, the tension easing from her shoulders. "Thank you, Adi. I was worried she might not approve."

"Don't worry about that," I said, caressing her cheek. "My parents love you, and they understand how much you mean to me. Maa just has these traditional ideas sometimes, but she also respects our choices."

Zoya leaned into my touch, her eyes closing briefly as she sighed with relief. "I just want everything to go smoothly. I really want them to like me."

"They already do," I assured her, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "And how could they not? You're amazing."

She chuckled softly, looking up at me with warmth in her eyes. "You're biased."

"Maybe," I admitted with a grin, "but it's the truth."

As we settled into bed, Zoya's hand lay in mine, her fingers warm and delicate. I couldn't help but admire them, caressing each finger with gentle strokes.

"Arjun was right, you know," I murmured, my voice soft and sincere. "You really do have beautiful hands."

Zoya looked at me, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "Adi, are you seriously complimenting my hands right now?"

I grinned, unable to resist the urge to bring her hand to my lips, planting light kisses on her knuckles. "Absolutely..."

She laughed, a melodic sound that filled the room with warmth. "You’re being ridiculous," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

"Maybe."

"You're such a sap sometimes." She laughed.

~~~

Thanks for reading ♥️

I'll update soon