Okay first of all apologies for not letting it out on Diwali. I was unwell so couldn't complete the chapter in time.

This is the longest one yet with some around 14000 word count. Yup!!! It's that longggggg. Haha.. won't take any more time of yours. Straight to the epilogue which most of you people wanted.

Dedicated to all of you wonderful people out there for giving this book so much love. 💞

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Arohi's POV

I stood in front of the full-length mirror staring back at my reflection. A smile crept onto my lips being happy with what I was seeing. I stood dressed in a beautiful, baby pink lehenga. Tanvi has done an excellent job in designing it for me. As I didn't have any idea about fashion and the kind of dress I wanted for the night, I left everything onto her hand. I remember her telling me that she'll design something that suits me as a person and this looks exactly my type. Nothing too much, just simple, yet it looks beautiful and elegant.

So I was right when I trusted her and packed my bags without trying it out beforehand. I know that was kind of careless of me but hey, I was busy with so many things in hand. I've spent a lot of time managing and planning for this one day, for this special night. I smiled at myself overcome with a rush of excitement.

My hair and makeup were done by my gee-girls, Shradz and Nikki. Just like Tanvi, they know me too well and did the simplest of look which went well with the lehenga.

"You look like a princess, Aro," Nikki said from behind smiling at me. I smiled at her through the mirror.

"I can't agree more!" Shradz added with a wide smile.

"Thank you! It's all because of you guys!" I turned around facing them with a wide grin. They passed me one of their sweetest smiles and came forward as we three engaged in a group hug, giggling all the while.

Ever since that Diwali party, the three of them have become my favorites. So I usually have them over whenever I'm attending some big functions or parties. Jenny was so kind enough to let me have them, as they are basically her team. But now, they are more of my girls. I've such a great rapport with them and we sometimes hang out together, of course, accompanied by Jenny. Otherwise, Jenny's possessive ass would kill me for sure!

Pulling away from the hug, I took my mobile and wrote a quick message for Tanvi, thanking her for this beautiful piece of art.

"We'll be taking your leave now, princess," Nikki said bowing down followed by a laugh. I and Shradz laughed at her action.

"But be there on time!" I said replacing my laugh with a serious look.

"For sure! How can we miss it?!" Shradz said smiling widely at me which I happily returned.

"See you in some time!" Nikki said as they both walked out of my room taking their bags and belongings with them.

I let out a sigh with a smile still on my lips. I was sure excited for the night and maybe a little nervous and sad... Well, there were so many mixed feelings.

I turned around looking back into the mirror, running my hand on the skirt. I was surely in love with the dress. I twirl after putting my mobile down on the table smiling to myself.

"Stop adoring yourself so much, Arohi." My smile widened even without looking at the owner of the voice.

"Why not? It's good to adore yourself, you know?" I said raising my eyebrows, turning around to face Rohan with my hands folded on my chest. He gave me his sweetest smile which always manages to melt my heart whether I am angry, sad, frustrated, nervous or bored with life. He always manages to put this big wide smile on my face.

It's been four long years since we are dating. I still can't believe that we managed to get past all the huddles. Whether it be the time difference, distance, our career, going days without contact, fighting and making up through phone or Skype but still making time, understanding and supporting each other, and loving each other even harder was the biggest task and I am glad we manage to overcome it.

It wasn't exactly a surprise to see Rohan putting extra efforts throughout these years but it definitely made me feel important. It was like he is equally invested in this relationship and he wanted to make it work. More importantly, he wanted me to be part of his life.

Long-distance relationships are tough, especially when you are celebrities and living in two different countries gets it even tougher. I don't think our relationship would have survived without both of us contributing to it. Most of the time it was Rohan who made plans and managed the time gap between us. He always made sure to message me every day as it wouldn't be possible to call or video call every day.

Distance makes us appreciate even the smaller efforts from our partners. And I was always left amazed by all the big, small efforts Rohan took in these past four years. That guy even edited a video with my videos and small clips of everyone's birthday messages for my last birthday! I was left in tears, the video was terrible but I can never forget that sheepish, shy face of Rohan as he wished me with that video. He looked so cute and I wished he was there with me so I could have covered his face with kisses. He just made me fall in love with him deeper every single day, even when he was not beside me.

Rohan came and pulled me closer holding me by my waist. My hands traveled around his neck.

"It's definitely good but come on just look at that..." Rohan said gesturing behind me. I threw him a confused look.

"Look at what?" I asked turning to face the mirror and started checking myself.

"That extra handsome guy who is standing right next to you," Rohan said smirking at me. I rolled my eyes at him through the mirror as he let out a hearty laugh and put his arms around my waist pulling me closer to his body, keeping his head over my shoulder.

I could smell his scent and his touch was making it hard to push him away. I stayed glaring at him.

"I mean just look at that face, man! Damn handsome! I wonder how you got so lucky?" He said still smiling widely. I threw him a bored look which only made his smile wider.

"I know right?" I said being sarcastic, "I wonder how." I finished in a plain tone and gave him a sarcastic smile at the end.

Rohan started laughing hard. I punched on his stomach with the help of my elbow. Rohan pouted looking at me.

"You are still a jerk Mr. Nanda," I said glaring at him and taking his hands off me as I moved to take my side purse.

"Yeah but you still love me, Arohi." He said checking his hair in the mirror. I looked at him shaking my head in annoyance.

"Yeah, you just got lucky with that Mr. Nanda," I said making a face as I put some makeup stuff and mobile in the purse.

"That's true!" Rohan said winking at me. I couldn't hold back a smile that crept across my lips but I made sure to replace it immediately with a serious face.

"Are you done adoring yourself or you will still need some more time?" I asked zipping my purse and holding it in my hand, ready to move out.

"Don't be jealous, Arohi." He said walking over to me and putting his arm around my shoulder.

"Can't help it," I said being sarcastic and shrugging my shoulder. Rohan gave me his all-time famous smirk. I shook my head a little.

"Your sister has asked me to come over to help her so I have to go," I said pushing him away yet again as I walked towards the door. "You take your time," I said as I pushed the door open to go out.

**************

"You are looking extra beautiful today," I said entering Ahana's room. She was truly looking breathtaking. The most beautiful bride I have ever seen!

She wore a rose gold color, cape sleeve lehenga paired with matching hairstyle and light make-up, there was little to no jewelry on her. She was very specific about her look, starting from how she wanted her lehenga to be designed to her hairstyle and make-up. I've never seen a bride look so stunning even in such a simple look. She was the perfect example of a modern Indian bride.

Ahana smiled nervously at me. The first time ever since she declared Abeer as her boyfriend to Rohan.

I still remember her looking like a cute nervous 20-year-old girl telling her older brother about her boyfriend. I laughed at the memory. Time really does fly by. I still can't believe that my Hana is getting married tonight. She's going to start a new life, a new journey. I was so excited for her but at the same time a little sad that I won't be getting her all to myself now.

I went and sat next to Jenny who was on her phone.

"What are you doing?" I asked looking at her but that girl didn't bother to spare me a glance. Instead, she kept on typing something. I rolled my eyes and moved my attention towards Ahana.

"So? Finally, the day is here." I said pulling her leg a little. She gave me a horrifying look.

"I'm nervous, Arohi." She said moving in her seat so that she was face to face with me.

"Why? Isn't it what you always wanted?" I asked narrowing my eyes at her.

"She is nervous thinking about her first night maybe," Jenny said still typing on her phone without looking at any of us.

"Shut up, Jenny!" Ahana said in an irritated voice. I couldn't help but laugh at that comment. Jenny looked up at Ahana and then at me giving a wink, "It's not that guys." Ahana was trying so hard to explain something but Jenny was on fire.

She has been since we came here in Udaipur for Ahana and Abeer's grand wedding two weeks back. Ahana wanted it simple but being a responsible older brother that Rohan has always been, he wanted everything to be grand for his only sister. And trust me when I say this, it took some thousands of fights to finalize everything.

Rohan was against Ahana's choice to go simple with her wedding dress. He wanted it to be like how he has seen in some Bollywood movies, with the heavy stone worked red lehenga, traditional pieces of jewelry and I don't know what all he had in mind. Well, we all sort of planned something traditional and close to our culture but Hana was adamant in her decision to not wear heavy jewelry or heavy dresses. She just wanted everything to look simple and peaceful. It took some efforts to convince her parents and Rohan but they all eventually gave in as her happiness matters the most. It's her day after all.

We all started appreciating her decision later on when the preparation started. Everything looked so beautiful for words. The wedding was still the grand wedding Rohan wanted it to be but the arrangements and themes were according to Ahana's wish. Rohan took charge of fulfilling her wish even though there were a difference in opinion between them. He was so stubborn that he won't agree to anything Abeer had to offer and that poor guy would listen to everything he said to keep the older brother happy.

"Then what? Are you on..." Jenny continued further putting some dramatic expressions. I shook my head seeing those two.

"No!!! Just stop!!" Ahana said being annoyed further. I laughed again looking at her state. That poor girl was truly so much irritated. Before Jenny could start anything again, I meddled in between.

"Then? Why are you nervous?" I asked containing my laughter and sounding genuinely serious. Ahana looked at me and before she could explain anything we heard Jenny again.

"Has the reality hit you and you finally realized that you are in love with someone else?" Jenny asked again raising her eyebrows. It was a wonder that these girls were so calm throughout the conversation.

I was the only one laughing hysterically hearing and looking at the expressions they were giving to each other.

"Can you please tell her to stop?" Ahana asked me with irritation written all over her face. With some great efforts, I made myself stop laughing and put on a serious face.

"Jenny..." I looked at her, "Let someone else speak for once?"

"Yeah sure. Anyway, Abeer is not going to let you speak tonight." Jenny said shrugging her shoulders as she got back to her phone again.

"God Jenny. Just go from here!" Ahana said making her voice louder. If Jenny is gonna continue with her antics then I'm sure soon Ahana is gonna be in tears.

"Stop yaar. Why are you troubling her?" I asked fearing the future.

"And stop taking out your desperation on me," Ahana said crossing her arms over her chest. I looked at Jenny who looked up at Ahana.

"Desperation?"

"Yeah, I mean you had to stay away from your husband for some time, right? So that might be coming from this." Ahana said smirking at Jenny. What's with all these people? What did they eat for breakfast?

"It's called mood swings which happens when you are pregnant for 7 freaking months!" Now it was time for Jenny to get irritated, "I can't even move freely with this inside me." She said being irritated and looking towards her all grown tummy.

I honestly can't wait to see little Jenny or Arjun. I guess except for Jenny everyone is excited. But I can't blame her. When you have someone inside you... I don't know it just scares me.

"Yeah, whatever you say," Ahana said giving her half attention and moved to face me.

As Jenny was about to say something Ahana beat her to it.

"I'm just nervous. I don't know the reason. Okay??" She said letting out a sigh, "It's the first time I'm getting married."

"Wow, and you wanted to share this with Arohi? Who has zero experience in marriage?" Jenny said pointing at me. I glared at her.

"That's why I'm going to talk to her. At least she won't tell me some amazing theories." Ahana said again. Jenny rolled her eyes.

"Hey, those weren't the theories but my own experiences." Jenny said defending herself.

"Damn with your experiences, Jenny!" Ahana murmured under her breath. I stood up and hugged Ahana tightly from back.

"Don't worry. You'll be fine. Trust me." I said still not breaking the hug.

"And if anyone troubles you there just give us one call. We all will be right there to cut them down." Jenny said folding her arms and sounding serious for the first time.

Ahana smiled widely for the first time.

"You guys. What am I gonna do without you all?" Ahana said as Jenny hugged her with a smile.

"You don't have to do anything. We are right here, always." Jenny said in a low voice. I just smiled looking at these two girls. I don't know about them but I definitely can't live without them in my life.

*************

I stayed with Ahana while Jenny went with Arjun to have some chocolate pastry as she was craving for some. Ahana was having some nervous attacks in between. She was literally panicking for no reason at all. I tried my best to calm her down but I knew that it was of no help. Seeing her worried made me anxious as well. Jenny, on the other hand, didn't care at all, she said it's a common thing to feel anxious before getting married. Even I agreed with Jenny on that even though I had no experience.

Seeing Hana nervous made me wonder how would I feel before getting married to Rohan. I know I'll be the happiest woman on Earth that day but nervous... Yes, definitely!

Sunanda aunty also accompanied me for some time trying to calm Ahana. While Hana was busy losing her shit, aunty was busy adoring her daughter. She was the happiest woman on this whole planet right now and seeing her smile was making me feel so good.

Aunty and I have gotten along pretty well from the start. She proved me wrong about the image I had of her before I met her. I always thought of her as a strict, rude, never smiling person. But she was the total opposite! She was such a sweet, caring and surprisingly funny person. It's just that tragic incident made her lose herself for some time but now she's recovering from that incident just like Rohan.

Her relation with Rohan is still a silent one. They don't talk to each other openly but I know they have come closer than before. They both know they have got each other and they are happy being that way. Some relations are just like that. Words can't explain them. They are just silent promises which only those two can understand. All I can say is that there's no hate for Rohan in Aunty's heart now and I can see that she has actually begun to consider Rohan has her another son.

Aunty left me alone with Hana as she went to greet the guests and to take care of them and do every other thing which any mother would do for her daughter on her wedding day. Soon after her, I left Hana with her cousins and went to look for Jenny and the rest of our gang.

I greeted few people on the way, as I have got to know few of Hana's relatives on this stay in Udaipur. It was then I saw Raghav walking up to me adjusting his kurta and dupatta.
"How am I looking?" He asked and I let out a small laugh at him.

"Amazingly handsome as always!" I said giving him an impressed look. Raghav smiled widely and put his arm around me, pulling me closer.

"I know right?" He said winking at me. I laughed again.

"Yeah, I am sad for all the girls out there. No one has a chance now." I said making a sad face. I could see Raghav blushing hard. How cute is that??!!!

Yes, guys, Raghav has finally found someone other than Rohan now. And trust me she is equally weird. They found each other at one of the Rohan's concerts. Sara came as Rohan's fan but fell flat for Raghav instead. They started dating and soon after they were head over heels for each other.

One good thing about her was that she mingled with us so easily and even though she was a crazy Rohan Nanda fan, she didn't really let it show anytime or made it obvious. She was not one of those loud fangirls and I was grateful for that, actually, we all were grateful for that!

"Aww... Being shy and all?" I asked poking Raghav's cheek a little. He blushed hard again. I laughed. It was fun irritating him. He has irritated me and Rohan so much and now it was our payback time.

"Where is your Sara?" I asked him poking into his stomach again.

"She is getting ready." Raghav said shying away, "She said she will come down after meeting Ahana."

"Okayyyy..." I said raising my eyebrows dramatically and pulling his leg further.

"I guess you are more desperate to get married, Raghav." Rohan's voice broke in intrupting our conversation as he walked towards us.

"I can say the same thing about you?" Raghav said in a challenging tone.

"Yes you can say anything you want, Joker but that won't change a thing." Rohan said sipping his whiskey.

"Same goes for you." Raghav said defending himself.

"Are you kidding me, Joker?" Rohan started in a dramatic tone, "You are comparing yourself to me?" He asked pointing between them as he attempted to look horrifying. I shook my head looking at my so-called fiancee.

"Yes, how can you, Raghav?" I asked looking at Raghav and being dramatic, "There is no comparison to the great Rohan Nanda. Don't you know that?"

Raghav chuckled at that. Rohan had this wide smile looking at me. I rolled my eyes at him.

"My bad. Sorry, sir. I forgot." Raghav said being his dramatic self. We gave each other smirks before looking back at Rohan.

Rohan being himself was least bothered by any of our comments but instead, his hand travelled around my waist as he pulled me closer. Raghav let go of his hold on me and moved to the side, giving us our space.

"You are looking just way too beautiful today." He said taking his lips closer to my ear. I blushed as his lips brushed against my ear.

"Wow. You are actually noticing someone else? That's new." I said pushing him gently by his chest. But he wasn't affected by that. He just smirked at me and brushed his lips on my cheeks. Sending some shivers down my spine.

"Guys, we are in public. You can go upstairs if it's so hard to control." Raghav said from the side who I forgot was still standing there.

We both looked at him who was smirking at us.

"And look who is talking." Rohan said in a lazy voice. And as Raghav was about to counter attack I beat them.

"Shut up both of you." I said making my voice a little louder

"I'm gonna go and check on Hana." I said looking at Rohan.

"I'm coming with you." He said putting his glass at some table beside. Just as we turned to leave we heard Raghav.

"Wait, look who is here?" Raghav said in his enthusiastic voice. I followed his gaze and my eyes widened with happiness. I haven't seen Vivek for some time now. I was so busy preparing Ahana's wedding with this crazy bunch.

This is the first wedding of a closed one I'm attending considering I basically missed the big part of Vivek's wedding so that justifies my excitement besides I know I'm gonna be equally excited for Raghav and Sara's wedding as well.

"OMG!!! Vivek!" I said almost running as I hugged him tightly. I heard Vivek chuckle as he returned the hug with the same enthusiasm, "I thought you will miss it." I finished pulling away.

"Even I thought that but your bhabhi didn't let me." He said. I glared at him. And moved my gaze to Suhana who was smiling widely beside Vivek.

"I'm glad to have you." I said pulling her into a big bear hug. Rohan gave a manly hug to Vivek and so did Raghav.

Thank god these two are finally on good terms. I was really nervous when Vivek met Rohan for the first time after that whole drama but guess this male species is kind of different. They were comfortable with each other right from the start as if nothing happened at all.

"You need your wife's interference to come and see me now, Vivek?" I asked narrowing my eyes to glare at him.

"Well..." Vivek was saying something but I didn't let him finish.

"And then look at this guy over here who took so many efforts for Ahana." I said still glaring.

"I was just kidding baba!" Vivek said pulling me into a side hug. I threw him another angry glare.

"Hey, you almost missed my wedding for this asshole!" Vivek said pointing to Rohan. I looked at him. Rohan shrugged his shoulders.

"That's true also." He said looking at me. I threw another glare at Rohan.

"Whose side are you on?" I asked raising my eyebrows and folding my arms. Rohan scratched the back of his neck with a sly smile.

"Well, doesn't matter. You both are on the same side." Rohan said with a smile.

"That's my dialogue!" I said frowning at Rohan.

"Whatever makes you happy," Rohan said gesturing with his hands as he gave me another smile.

"But even you were going to miss my wedding for him and then he had to interfere. Remember?" Vivek said again grabbing my attention. Okay!!! Maybe I shouldn't have talked about it in the first place. I moved my attention to Suhana instead who was enjoying the drama along with Raghav by the side.

"How is everything going, Suhana?" I asked her dodging Vivek's glare and questions.

I can see Vivek shaking his head from the corner of my eyes as Rohan gave me the same look. Raghav and Suhana just started laughing at my state.

*************

"I'm so nervous, Bhai." Ahana said coming towards Rohan as soon as she spotted us entering the room.

Yes, she does occasionally call him 'Bhai'. I figured it out she does that mostly when she is nervous or sad or frustrated or when she couldn't figure out what to do with her life and what decisions to make. And Rohan does get that as well.

It's cute. Their bond. And all I know is that I adore it so much. I smiled looking at Ahana who was standing in front of Rohan.

Rohan gave her a sweet smile and pulled her in a hug. There were a few of her cousins in the room who left after we entered. I think they just wanted to give privacy to this brother- sister duo. I smiled at them politely which they happily returned, on the other hand, Rohan and Ahana didn't seem to care. They were in their own space.

"And what is making you this nervous?" Rohan asked still hugging her, "Weren't you the one who wanted to marry that Jackass?"

"Rohan..." I said glaring at him. Rohan rolled his eyes as he pulled away.

"Why are you nervous? Huh?" He asked again holding her face in his palms as he made her look at him. Ahana pouted looking at him.

I could tell that tears can slide anytime from her eyes. I just kept looking at those two.

"Don't you know him for years?" Rohan asked looking down at her, "You even know his family."

"It's not that... It's just..." Ahana said letting out a sigh as she looked up at Rohan with teary eyes, "I don't wanna leave you."

"Oh hello... Who is leaving?" Rohan asked letting out a chuckle and wiped the tears which started clouding her eyes.

"No one... Not even Abeer will be able to keep you away from any of us." He said pulling her in a hug by one hand.

"And if he ever does that... We will take you away with us." He said further winking down at Ahana. Ahana let out a chuckle hearing those words as she rested her head on his chest.

It's always good to see this soft side of Rohan. Who he always keeps hiding as he is busy being a jerk most of the time. But with Ahana it's obviously different.

"Or... The better way..." I said gaining some of their attention, "We can just make him like us." I finished with a wide smile looking at both of them. Rohan and Ahana chuckled at me.

"You mean crazy?" Ahana asked raising her eyebrows with a smile.

"Totally...!" I said going closer to her and pecked her on the forehead. She gave me a genuine smile.

"Alright... Now don't be nervous." Rohan said wiping remaining tears from her face carefully, not messing up with her makeup or hair, "On a serious note..." He paused.

"He is not bad..." He said shrugging his shoulders, "And I have seen the love... He has for you... so..." He said being somewhat uncomfortable. I contained my laughter seeing his state.

"Don't worry... He will keep you happy." He said giving Ahana a smile. Ahana smiled a little and looked up at him again.

"You are not mad?" She asked. Rohan gave her a confused look.

"Mad??" He asked frowning at her, "On you?? For what??" He asked still being confused and trying to remember the events if he missed anything.

"I know..." Ahana let out a sigh, "You weren't exactly happy with this whole thing. You just went with it for me." She finished trying to put a smile but failed miserably.

I looked at Rohan who just kept staring at Ahana for some time. He then let out a sigh and held her by shoulders as he made her look at him.

"It's not about Abeer, Hana." He said, "I would have done the same even if it was someone else." Rohan finished with a small smile. Ahana returned his smile.

And me? I was still standing there without bothering them and just taking this beautiful moment. Capturing it in my memory. I felt my eyes tear up a bit but I brushed the tears off without catching eyes.

"But you and Aryaan hated him since college," Ahana said with a frown. Rohan let out a chuckle but then his posture went hard and serious.

"That's because..." he started and let out a sigh, "he sometimes reminds me of how I was or I am even today. And seeing you fall for him made me uneasy. It made me fear that he would break you. And I didn't want you to go through that pain, ever. Because it hurts more than anything... When someone you trust and love breaks your trust," Rohan said being in his thoughts remembering things and then paused unable to speak further. I haven't seen him like this ever. Ahana's frown deepened.

I met Abeer three and a half years back when Ahana introduced me to him. He sure has that bad boy persona even today but I can tell he loves Ahana more than anything. What I liked the most about Abeer is that he holds an attitude and personality that attracts people towards him immediately and even though he is a well-known industrialist he never has shown off his wealth. What he has always shown off is his love for our Hana and that was enough reason for me to accept him. Also, he is pretty easy to talk to and would make anyone around him comfortable with him just in the first meet. No need to tell I got along with him for the same reason immediately. Actually we all did except for Rohan who would send him his cold glares in between which didn't bother any of us but still he accepted Abeer with time. We would have long chatting sessions whenever he would come over.

I don't know how exactly he was in his college days but I can clearly imagine him as a rich spoilt brat as a football team captain holding a bad boy image and girls would go crazy with just one look of him. I let out a small chuckle being proud of my imagination.

"But it's a good thing if he is like you, bhai... right?" she said without changing her expressions. Rohan let out a small laugh. He nodded still with a smile as he looked at Ahana again who still had the same frown on her face.

"No... Not at all. You see me as a brother, Hana and trust me I am worst when it comes to..." Rohan paused again trying to explain to his lil sister about how he has lived all these years, "You know women in general," he said finally managing to find the correct sentence.

"Bullshit," Ahana said with an annoyed expression as she looked at me, "Arohi will have the same thing to say... Right?" Ahana paused raising her eyebrows as she waited for my answer. I looked at Rohan who didn't spare me another look. I pressed a smile as I looked back at Ahana who was looking at me.

"Of course," I said with a smile as I looked at Rohan, "He just needed some repairing though." Ahana let out a sigh.

"Whereas Abeer is already sane," I continued further. Rohan let out a chuckle as he looked at me and then at Ahana.

"I would agree to that," he said with a nod and laugh. Ahana slapped his arm hard which made his smile widen.

"You do?" she asked raising her eyebrows with a playful smile. Rohan rubbed his arm and looked at her with a complaining face.

"Yup!!!"

"Okay, Drama queen. You won't even bother to call me later. So don't mess with your make up for it." Rohan said glaring at Ahana. She made a horrifying face.

"Oh shit. Is it that bad?" She asked checking the makeup with her hands and looked at me. I chuckled at her.

"Who needs makeup? You anyway look beautiful." I said winking at Ahana. She cheered up again and gave me a wide grin.

"That I do!" She said slyly and moved her gaze to Rohan, "And I'm not leaving you that easily, Rockstar! I am gonna trouble you till my last breath," She said glaring at him. Rohan and I chuckled looking at each other and then at Ahana.

"I'm glad to hear that," Rohan said giving Ahana a peck on her forehead as he pulled her for another hug.

**************

It was late at night when the marriage ceremonies got over and Ahana left with Abeer.

Now the reception will be taking place in Mumbai once the love birds will be back from their brief honeymoon.

I was sitting with Rohan, Jenny, Arjun, Raghav, Sara, Vivek, and Suhana in the garden area of this grand palace. We all changed to our comfy clothes and gathered around the bone fire. I was sitting next to Rohan, on my other side Jenny and Arjun sat together wrapped up in a blanket with Jenny leaning her back on him, resting her head on his shoulder. I never adored them this much before. Especially after Jenny announced her pregnancy, Arjun has been taking care of her like a small child. They are the cutest couple ever!

"So finally the D day is over," Jenny said getting comfortable in Arjun's arms. She surely was getting all the pampering as she was of course pregnant.

"Hmm... It feels a little quiet now. Isn't it?" Arjun said with a little smile.

"Don't worry guys. She is away just for some short period. She will back in no time and start eating our heads again." Raghav said. He was seated opposite to me on the other side of the bone fire with Sara sitting close to him.

"That's true." Jenny said being in her own thoughts. No matter how much she fights with Ahana, I knew she would miss her the most after Rohan of course!

Rohan was sitting silently beside me. I poked him in his arms. He was startled for a moment and looked at me raising his eyebrow with a questioning look.

I raised my eyebrows at him asking if he is okay. Rohan just chuckled at me and gestured with his eyes stating he is fine. I smiled at him again.

"Now that leaves us with two more weddings." Vivek declared looking at me, Rohan and then Raghav, Sara. He was sitting next to Rohan with Suhana beside him.

Raghav smiled shyly at him as he rubbed the back of his neck and looked at Sara.

"Stop being pathetic, Joker." Rohan shouted from my side which startled me for a moment.

"Good God, Rohan. You scared me." Jenny said looking at him being horrified.

"Seriously!" Arjun said reflecting Jenny's expressions.

"Let them be." I said glaring at Rohan. He rolled his eyes.

"Just look at that guy." He said pointing towards Raghav who was smiling widely for no reason. I let out a laugh looking at him. I've never seen this side of Raghav and I was really enjoying seeing him like this. I mean he truly deserves all the love in this world! I was so happy to see him in love and Sara is such a great girl for him.

"He is just being so pathetic, man." Rohan said in a disgusted voice looking at me and then looked at Raghav again, "It's so embarrassing."

"Don't be jealous, baby." Raghav said making a dramatic face, "You know I love you equally." He finished winking at Rohan and looked at Sara giving a peck on her cheek. She blushed hard. How cute is that???!!!

Rohan let out an irritated groan. I again let out a laugh.

"Asshole, always making a show." I heard Arjun. Jenny slapped him on his chest with a laugher. Arjun gave her a look.

"Stop being assholes, guys." Jenny said and looked at Raghav, "Just look at him." She said smiling and looked at Arjun with a disgusted face, "And then at you guys." Arjun rolled his eyes and so did Rohan.

"Sara, you are one lucky girl," Jenny said making her voice a little louder.

"Truly. He is a keeper." I said in the same tone making them blush harder.

"I know," Sara said in her cute British accent. She is half British half Indian. Her dad is Indian while her mom is British and she has spent most of her life in London.

"Keeper my ass!" Arjun said again under his breath but enough for us to hear. Rohan let out a laugh and gave a high five to Arjun making efforts to get up to reach him.

"Rohan..." I said giving him a glare once again. Rohan rolled his eyes and sat closer to me as he pulled me closer in his arms.

He pecked me on my ear. I blushed pushing him a little.

"Just get a room, guys." Sara said winking at me. I glared at her but failed miserably as I started laughing hard. Jenny followed me.

Arjun shook his head at Rohan who offered him a sweet smile.

"Arjun, we have seen the worst." Raghav said smiling widely. Arjun rolled his eyes and cuddled up with Jenny giving her a long kiss on her cheek.

"Yes and I just want to let you guys know that there is still much more left!" Jenny said and pecked Arjun on his lips. He gave her a known look.

"Guys, control. It's the seventh month." Sara said. And everyone except for Jenny and Arjun let out a laugh.

Rohan made his grip on my tight pulling me even closer to him even when there was literally no distance left. I tilted my head to the side and gave him a peck on his cheek. Rohan gave me a smirk and gave me small pecks on the neck which sent shivers down my spine. I barely managed to stay sane or worst making any kind of weird sound.

"Rohan..." I whispered just for him to hear. I could sense his lips curving into a smile.

"Hmm...?" He asked tilting his head as his lips brushed on my skin.

"Don't..." I said trying to sound strict but when has Rohan ever been affected by it.

"You started it." He said shrugging his shoulders, chuckling. I glared at him again before shifting in his grip and making myself comfortable in his arms.

Rohan chuckled again but didn't move at all and I was grateful for that. After so many hectic days, finally, I was in my most comfortable place.

"By the way Suhana, you usually don't talk or you don't like us?" Arjun asked Suhana. She looked a little uncomfortable and looked at Vivek who gave her a small smile.

She is an introvert and doesn't usually mingle with people. She just lives in her own space. But don't underestimate her, she's a published author and now she's working on her first-ever novel which I'm really excited about. She also works for a magazine company as a content writer. She won't be a good speaker but she surely is a good listener and gives the best advice ever. We both got along with each other because we shared introverted traits and were so glad to find a fellow being who would finally understand our weird habits. She needs time just like me to show off her crazy side which I've got to see and trust me she's the craziest I've ever met!

But she hasn't hung out with my crazy gang that much, so that explains most of her silence. I know she will be fine once she gets to spend some time with them. Her conversation with Rohan has also been limited. So far they have had just formal conversations.

People usually take these kinds of things as an act of arrogance but trust me she is too sweet for this world. And I'm glad that my crazy bunch doesn't judge her, in fact, they treat her so warmly. They know she needs time to open up and they don't mind giving her time as well.

"Umm..." She said smiling weakly and looked at me. I gestured her with eyes assuring to go ahead and that it's okay. She smiled awkwardly at Arjun and continued, "Not really."

Arjun nodded at her in understanding and so did Jenny.

"That's fine, girl. I'm sure I'll make you speak a lot sooner." Jenny said smiling at her.

"Vivek, just make sure that she comes with you whenever you come," Jenny said glaring at Vivek. I looked at Vivek who was taken aback.

"What? I have told her countless times but she is just..." Vivek was saying when Suhana cut him off.

"I'll make sure, Jenny, to attend all of the functions and other stuff from now on." Suhana said passing one of her sweet smiles to Jenny. I smiled looking at her. She is too sweet!

Suhana continued looking at all of us sitting in a circle, "Even I think I am missing on a lot of stuff staying quiet."

We gave her a warm smile.

"That's good. So welcome to the mental asylum." Raghav shouted and we burst into laughter.

"By the way, madam. Wedding is over now." Vivek asked looking at me with a questioning look, "Any plans for getting back to work?"

I groaned loudly. Shifting myself in Rohan's arm. I could literally feel him smile. His warm breaths were hitting the back of my neck.

"Ah, Vivek yaar...!!" I said being annoyed, "Don't do that."

"Don't do what??" Vivek asked again raising his eyebrows.

"He is asking the right question," Rohan said holding my hand with was already intertwined with his tightly.

"Don't you start it now, Rohan," I said being irritated as ever and passed him an annoyed look. 

I know he will be going back to London once Ahana's reception is over which is like just 10 days away from now. And then I'll be again on my own before I go to London to meet him which I've no idea when.

Just video calls, chats, and messages. I'm going to miss his touch yet again. And I want to live in this moment and make the most of it but then here he is worrying about my career more than I do. Don't get me wrong, I'm not taking my career for granted. I just want to make most of the moments I get to be with him. After all, I only get him by my side only for a few days, other days are dedicated to my work.

"Okay. Whatever you say." Rohan let out a sigh and left that topic there. He knows how I feel about this whole topic and makes sure that it's not the only thing we talk about. It would have been fine if we were staying together and I've to work but that's not the case here. We live apart and I rarely get to be close to him like this. Eventually everyone got busy with the chatters like always.

I closed my eyes leaning on his shoulder, with his arm wrapped around me protectively, keeping me closer to him. I took a deep breath, calming myself and taking in the beautiful moment that we were living. I don't want to miss any of it. Because I don't know when I will get to see him again after these 10 days.

***********

The next morning came early as we basically slept at dawn. I was still so sleepy but had no choice as we all have to leave for Mumbai in few hours.

I made a shift in the bed to see Rohan sleeping peacefully beside me. I smiled looking at him.

"Don't stare, Arohi." Rohan said startling me a bit. His eyes still closed. "It's uncomfortable."

"Since when my gaze made you feel uncomfortable?" I asked getting up and sitting straight in bed, tying my hair in a bun.

I looked at Rohan again. He was still lying in bed with his eyes closed. I gave him a gentle push in an attempt to make him his eyes but nothing.

I let out a sigh as I moved in bed to get up when I felt a hard grip on my wrist and a pull backward.

I stumbled and fell on the bed again. I tilted my head to see Rohan with his ever so famous smirk. He looked hot with his messed up hair and that well trimmed beard.

"As you know. I don't like it when someone comes in between me and my first love." He said resting his head on his hand as he looked at me. I was lying beside him with his tight grip still on my hand, "So yup! That was uncomfortable for me and my love." He finished with a wide smile.

"I guess you won't even bother if something happens to me in the middle of the night." I said turning myself to face him as I gave him a cold glare, "You'll still go on with your sleep."

Rohan let out a laugh putting his head back which brought a small smile to my face.

"I don't really think I could afford that." He said moving a little closer to me. He bent and placed a soft kiss on my cheek. I smiled wholeheartedly. He placed another kiss on my earlobe.

"You know I love you so much." He whispered in my ear before planting another kiss down my neck. I let out a soft moan. I could feel a smile forming on Rohan's lips as they brushed on my bare skin.

He pushed me gently on the bed as he moved above me putting his hands on either side. I looked up at him getting the view of his well-toned abs. He was shirtless, wearing only his track pants while I was clad in my tank top and shorts. He smiled looking down at me.

"Why don't you just go and have fun sleeping instead?" I asked with a roll of the eye as I pushed him by his chest. He was not affected but instead, his smile widened as he looked down at me.

"Too much jealousy," Rohan said still smiling. It was taking everything in me to not pull him for a kiss but I didn't let it show.

"Let go," I said with a frown. He chuckled again.

"Let me at least wish you a good morning." He said bending down. I just stared at him with a loud beating heart.

Our noses touched and I closed my eyes with heavy breathing. In the next moment, I could feel his lips against mine. I felt my heartbeat louder as our lips moved in sync. No matter how many times we've kissed, each kiss feels like our first. I still get those butterflies and abnormal heartbeat. I still get a rush of strong passion and deeper intimacy.

I placed my hands around his neck pulling him closer to me. Rohan's hands traveled on my waist and then up inside my top till it reached my bra.

I moaned again enjoying every bit of his touch on my skin. He smiled into our kiss as we pulled back to catch our breath. Rohan smiled looking down at me as he pecked me once more on my lips. I still had my palms placed on his cheeks feeling the roughness of his beard. I looked at him in the eye for a brief moment before I whispered, "I love you."

He smiled as I lifted my head up a little to place a small kiss on his nose. He let out a chuckle and planted a long kiss on my forehead. I closed my eyes feeling the touch of his lips.

I felt disappointed when he pulled away, missing his touch. I opened my eyes as he got up from above me and got off the bed. I frowned at him, sitting straight in bed. He chuckled looking at me again.

"What?" He asked raising his eyebrows as he took his T-shirt from one of the chair and wore it.

"Nothing," Rohan smirked at me knowing the reason but acted as if he had no clue.

I let out a sigh getting up from the bed and moved to the cupboard to select some clothes before going to brush my teeth.

"Just tell me what made you grumpy," Rohan said grabbing me from the back as he put his head in the crook of my neck sending those shivers again.

"You know it but you still want to act like you have no clue," I said with a plain face and went on searching for a dress in the cupboard, not bothering to even look at him. Rohan took his hands off me and grabbed my shoulders making me face him.

I didn't look at him and instead glued my eyes to the ground.

"Hey..." Rohan started in a low concerned voice, "What is it?" He asked cupping my face and making me look at him.

"I don't know, Rohan.... I don't want to stay away from you." I said as tears started covering my vision, "Is it too hard for you to understand?"

I finished jerking his hands and wiping my tears away. Rohan let out a sigh as he pulled me towards him wrapping his arms around me. My head rested on his chest as he ruffled my hair with one hand as the other rested around my waist.

"Then what do you want to do?" Rohan started calmly, "You always knew about this, Arohi." He said still being calm.

"I knew it, Rohan." I said being reckless as I pushed away from his grip, "But..." I stopped trying to gather my emotions. I put a few strands of my hair behind my ear as I looked at him again.

"It's been four years..." I said trying to explain to him my point, "And... I don't know... I just miss you." I said breaking a little at the end. Rohan's eyes soften as he looked back at me.

I felt like a mess at that moment. I just couldn't think straight. I knew it was unfair of me to behave like this, but I just needed to let it out. I needed to let him know I miss him more than I will ever show. I fear our distance and I just can't stop thinking that he will be leaving soon even in the moments we spent together. It hurts me every time he leaves. I don't know how to handle that pain even now, it's been four years and I still don't know...

"I miss you too much when you go back to London." I said in a low voice when tears slid down my cheeks. Rohan came forward and wiped those tears away placing his both hands on my cheeks.

"Do you really think that it's easy for me to stay away from you?" He asked in a calm voice, "Huh?"

"But we need to do this, right? Arohi?" He asked, "If we want this relation."

My heart felt heavy. I don't know what was happening to me. Why was I being like this? But I couldn't control my emotions. I know we have managed well until now. Sometimes he visits and sometimes I do but once we both get too busy with our respective works, it just gets impossible for any of us to even talk with this time difference.

And it gets even more difficult when he is out on his world tour in different countries. I don't wanna whine like a small kid but it is what it is. I don't wanna deny it just because I wanted to act and sound like a grown-up strong lady.

"I know but..." I said and stopped, taking a deep breath.

"But what?" He asked looking down at me. I wasn't looking at him. Instead, I chose to adore the ground beneath my feet.

"Look at me." Rohan said again coming closer to me. I still didn't move. I heard Rohan let out a sigh. He ran his hand through his hair. One act he does to calm himself down. Moments passed in silence, I kept staring at the floor as I felt Rohan's eyes on me and heard him letting out a sigh before he broke the silence.

"Can you choose between your career and me?" He asked sounding calm yet again. I looked up at him, finally. He raised his eyebrows demanding an answer from me. I just kept staring at him. How can he ask that? He knows I can't choose between those two. I can't live without any of them.

"Don't think just say whatever comes to your mind first." Rohan said again.

"I can't, Rohan." I said as soon as he finished his sentence, "You know that. And I know you can't either."

"That's why." He said holding my arms. He kept staring at me, waiting for me to say something. I nodded my head in understanding. I know we both can't sacrifice our career. It will always remain our priority apart from each other.

"How long will we go like this? I'm tired of this distance... I hate it when you leave. I just don't know how to handle it..." I said looking straight at him, letting out my heart as tears filled my eyes again. He let go of his hold on my arms and put his hands inside his track pant pockets. I watched as a small smile took over his lips.

"Even I hate the distance and baby, you have no idea how much it affects me to leave you behind every time! I handle it worse than you, ask that Joker." He let out a small chuckle before continuing. "But you know what, I know we will manage anything and will overcome anything!" He said looking down at me. "Right?"

I smiled a little looking back at him.

"I guess..." I said still smiling.

"I push pass my days looking forward to our next meeting. And then you count my days! You make me so miserable, Arohi!" He stopped and let out a small laugh shaking his head a bit. I chuckled at him with tears in my eyes. Wondering how I got so lucky to have him as my man.

"I just want you to know that..." Rohan said as he came closer and pecked me on my forehead, "I love you." He said pulling away from me and looked down at me. His chocolate brown eyes settling on my hazel ones. Searching for something. I smiled widely as I looked back with the same intensity.

"More than your sleep?" I asked putting a playful smile wiping my tears with back of my hand. Rohan raised his eyebrows as he ruffled his hairs with one hand.

He looked at me again after a moment. I raised my eyebrows crossing my arms on my chest questioning him as he didn't say anything.

Rohan let out a chuckle pulling me closer and kissing me gently on the cheek.

"Alright, much more than it!" He said as he hugged me tightly. We pulled back after a brief moment as he gave a quick kiss on my lips.

I smiled back at him as I turned to the cupboard and started grabbing some comfy clothes for the flight. While Rohan went to check his phone resting on the table beside.

I made my way to the bathroom but stopped in between and turned around to look at Rohan again.

"By the way, Aai Baba was asking about..." I said looking at him carefully, "You know what."

Not a single thing about his posture made me feel guilty about asking him this question. He never looked uncomfortable when I mentioned every Indian parent's main concern about their daughter's long term boyfriend. Marriage!

He always understood them more than I ever did. He would sit with them, chat with them, make them understand our point of view and surprisingly they would always get him. I don't know what is it in him or his ways. But I am sure of one thing that he loves them as much as they love him.

He might not be perfect. He might act like a jerk and a big asshole but beneath than he is a great human being. And that's why people around him love him. No matter who it may be.

Rohan put a smile on his face as he got what I was asking for.

"Yes, I know. And I'm going to meet them first once we land in Mumbai." He said giving me a sweet smile.

"Don't worry." He said gesturing me the same with his eyes. I smiled automatically looking at him calm and relaxed posture. It made me feel at ease. Though I always knew he is there, it still made me feel like some burden is lifted off my chest.

"I'm not. I know we will be fine." I said. The smile was still lingering on my lips.

"It's us after all. How can I not be sure." I continued smirking a little. Rohan narrowed his eyes and shook his head a little.

"Finally?" He asked raising his eyebrows. I let out a laugh.

"Yeah!!!" I said, "It's just sometimes... I don't know what happens." I finished letting out a sigh remembering my nervous breakdown a few moments back.

I just make him worry sometimes. Just too much. And this guy still doesn't say anything. He just listens to me calmly without judging, without being mad. He makes me understand everything without starting any fights. And I'm glad at least one of us act like that when other is being an emotional wreck or just having a hard time. It has always been like that with us, if he's down I act so mature and vise versa. That has been one of the reason we survived all the hard times.

People always say that I'm the understanding one in this relationship but sometimes the most difficult person can be the most understanding as well. Lately, I've been the trouble maker in our relationship. And Rohan has been so patient with me, he has been gentle handling me. He just knows what I need to hear and what calms me down. I've been taking that for granted for some times now.

"I am sorry, Rohan." I said meaning every word I spoke. I just needed to say that.

"Don't be. It's okay." Rohan said giving me a faint smile. "You okay, right?" He asked further. I nodded my head with a grateful smile.

"Thanks..." I said again.

"For?" Rohan asked raising his eyebrows with a smirk. I let out a laugh.

"Just being there. Always." I said walking up to him, "And for understanding me... More than anyone else." I finished putting my hands around his waist.

"I love you so much. More than I could ever get to tell you." I whispered and put my chin on his chest looking up at him. Rohan chuckled at me.

"I know...." He said putting his lips on my forehead and staying like that for a little longer.

************

The rain poured heavily as we stood outside of Aai-Baba's house in Mumbai. I rang the doorbell and stood beside Rohan with a big smile anticipating the reaction I will get to see on their faces after seeing us at door. Baba opened the door after a few moments. His eyes widened for a fraction of seconds before a wide smile broke on his face reaching to his both ears. I heard Rohan chuckle beside me.

"Arey... Arohi..." He said hugging me and then moved to Rohan, "Rohan..." He said enthusiastically as he pulled Rohan in a warm hug. I smiled looking at them. Rohan had a big wide smile on his face as he pulled away after a few moments.

"Yes, Baba..." He said, "How have you been? Taking medicines? Or..." Rohan was saying something when we heard Aai coming from inside wiping her hands on her Saree fall.

"Rohan..." She said in surprise. I and Rohan let out a chuckle as we moved inside home. Rohan hugged Aai and she looked at me after pulling away with a big smile, "Arohi, you should have informed me." She said glaring at me and then her eyes soften as she looked back at her favourite son-in-law.

"I could have made something at least." She said putting a hand on Rohan's cheek. I rolled my eyes at the mother-in-law and son-in-law duo.

"Are maa... sorry..." Rohan said and paused making a sorry face, "Aai..."

Aai chuckled at him. So did I and Baba. Rohan held Aai's hand in his as he continued further, "Whatever you make is anyway special." He said putting a big smile. We let out a laugh again.

"Come sit. I will make something for you." Aai said being nervous as always. I honestly don't know what for. What makes her so anxious around Rohan? I think she worries too much about treating him when he visits and we just do surprise visits only, way to make her more anxious. But all the anxiousness lasts only for first few minutes then she's back to the normal self. Rohan and Aai's bond is something that makes me happy and annoys me at the same time. She treats him more as her child than me now. Okay, I am jealous but for a very valid reason!

"No!!! Wait. Just sit here for some time." Rohan said holding her hand and pulling her with him to sit on the couch, "Why are you always in a hurry, Maa?"

"I'm not a guest here, right?" He said frowning at her. She just smiled at him.

"Of course not!!!" Baba said as he came and put a hand on his shoulder, "He is absolutely right." He finished looking at Aai. I was just standing there watching them with a huge smile on my face.

"Okay." Aai said and sat beside Rohan. Baba sat on the chair near Rohan and I sat opposite to them on the couch.

"You never listen to me, Aai." I said frowning at her. Aai gave me a smile and looked at Rohan but didn't say anything.

"Someone seems to be too jealous?" Rohan said raising his eyebrows. I rolled my eyes.

"Whatever!!!" I said and looked at Baba with a grin, "I know my Baba will always going to be on my side." I said smiling at him. Baba let out a laugh and looked at Rohan.

"So? How was the wedding?" He asked raising his eyebrows.

"It was amazing!" I said over-enthusiastically. Rohan chuckled. Aai and Baba had wide grin on their faces. They looked at Rohan.

"Of course!!! You put too many efforts in everything after all." Aai said with a smile, "I am sure Ahana would have loved that. She is one lucky girl to have you." She finished putting her hand on Rohan's hand. He smiled looking at her.

"I hope she liked it." He said in a low voice, being in his thoughts. I know he is missing Ahana, especially more now as we are in Mumbai and he will be visiting her place next.

"How can she not." I said with a smile. Rohan looked at me and gave me a small smile.

"Visiting Sunanda?" Aai asked looking at Rohan. Yes, my Aai Baba knows Sunanda Aunty and Sharma uncle. Our families have bonded really well. They have visited us countless times and so have we. We have been like a big family. It makes me so happy. I wonder what was I doing all these years before I met Rohan. Living in my alone space, pushing everyone away.

"Yes, thinking of going there next now." Rohan said shaking his head, "I will be staying there for a few days at least." He finished looking at me. I smiled at him. He had made it a point to stay at their place for at least few days on his visit to India. It's just his way to get closer to aunty and maybe to relieve those old days and remember his lost friend in good memories, and maybe to feel a little closer to him.

In these days, he visits me at my place or I visit them. And I don't mind it really. In fact, it just makes me feel proud of him. He had gathered the strength to face his nightmares. The one who feared to even remember anything related to Aaryan is actually going and staying at his house, mending his heart with the memories Aaryan left behind. The one who feared to meet Aaryan's mother is making efforts to talk to her and trying to get closer to her. Rohan has truly come a long way and I just can't be more happy for him.

"That's great!!! But you need to come here too." Baba said raising his eyebrows with a wide grin, looking at Rohan.

"Of course!" Rohan said with a smile. I smiled too adoring them.

"Ahana called yesterday." Aai said after a few moments. Rohan and I looked at each other and then at her. That's so sweet of her. I wonder why didn't she mention it to me. But I guess that's just like her. She is anyway unpredictable.

"She did?" Rohan asked in a surprise.

"Yes." Aai said, nodding with a smile.

"We too really wish we could have attended the wedding but my health is the biggest problem." Baba said sighing a bit. I frowned at him.

"It's okay, Baba." Rohan said before I could open my mouth to speak anything, "She understands and you will be there for the reception anyway."

"Yes. I can't afford to miss that now." Baba said making a dramatic face. We laughed at that.

"Now your sister is married off." Baba said after the laughter faded a little, "Any plans for yourself?" He asked raising his eyebrows and looking carefully at Rohan. I saw Aai shift in her seat as well to have a better look at Rohan. Rohan's gaze found mine and I sighed a bit.

"Baba?" I glaring at him.

"It's okay!!!" Rohan said and looked at Baba, "I am happy that he is talking to me openly." He finished with a small smile.

"About that..." Rohan started by looking at both of my parents, "Well, we did think about it." He said and looked at me. I was just staring at him anticipating what he might say.

"And I know it's been four long years as well." He said shifting his gaze to Aai, "And I promise I am not running away anywhere." He said putting his hand on hers and squeezing it, giving a promise that he is there. A small smile formed on my face.

"Yes, we do know that." Aai said with a small understanding and genuine smile, "It's just we are..." She paused looking at Baba. Baba laughed wholeheartedly.

"Just you know, looking forward to seeing our Arohi marrying off." He finished the sentence for Aai. And both of them looked at Rohan again. Rohan chuckled at them.

"I do understand your feelings and trust me I will be marrying your daughter really soon." He finished giving me a smirk. And I smiled at him before mouthing a 'Really?' narrowing my eyes without the notice of Aai Baba. He just smiled at me and continued.

"Let us first get done with the work commitments." He said making a face as he knew he has made a lame excuse. I let out a laugh hearing him. You need to try harder, Mr Nanda. Rohan looked at me with a frown. I just shook my head in a disappointment.

"Work will go on." Baba said, "Get settled first."

"Who says I'm not?" Rohan asked as he looked at me again with his chocolate brown eyes, "I'm well settled with your daughter even now." He finished and looked at Baba again.

"It's just we need to follow those rituals and then sign few papers until we are legally husband and wife, right?" He asked with a small smile. Baba and Aai smiled at that. A genuine one. How did he do that? I would have ended up fighting with them by now.

"Your daughter is in safe hands. I promise I won't ever leave her." Rohan said further and looked at me again, "Not even when she wants to."

"I'm relying on you for that," Baba said and patted Rohan's hand.

"So we need to wait a few more years it seems." Baba said looking at Aai who nodded at him with a smile.

"Not a few but at least another year," Rohan said and I looked at him with surprise, raising my eyebrows. He just shrugged his shoulders at me with a smirk. Aai and Baba smiled widely hearing his words.

"Well, then we should start the preparation!" Baba said being enthusiastic, "One year will fly away." He said looking at all of us. Aai nodded with happiness clearly seen on her face. The last time I saw her this happy was when I sighed that music contract for the first time.

"It sure will." Rohan said and looked at Baba, "And no, you aren't doing anything."

Baba frowned at Rohan. He let out a small chuckle.

"Just look after yourself, Baba." Rohan continued and I kept on adoring him, "I'll take care of everything you want."

"I am glad..." Aai said putting her hand on Rohan's shoulder and then looked at me, "My Arohi has someone like you by her side." I know she won't show it but she might have cried any moment if Rohan wasn't anywhere around. I got up and went to hug her tightly from the side as she held my hands tightly.

"Don't ever leave her." I heard Baba say to Rohan breaking his gaze from me and Aai.

"I won't..." Rohan said and looked at me in the eye, "I promise..." And I knew he meant every word he said.

*************

It was still pouring heavily when I went upstairs after we had dinner. I stood by the door opening to the terrace and enjoyed the rain. I took a deep breath, taking in the cool air looking at those big droplets falling from the sky. Rain always fascinated me as a child. I love this season out of all. It just makes me feel some unknown emotions. I feel so connected to it. There's a strange happiness I feel just seeing these drops from heaven quenching the thirst of the earth. It unites the sky and the earth, gives life to the earth. It showers hope and washes out the impurities. Rain is truly a blessing from heaven, showered onto us.

I felt like reliving my childhood where I could just go running into this pouring rain and let it fall on me until I am soaked in it. I smiled to myself as I remembered my fond memories of rain from my childhood.

"Why do you think so much?" Rohan asked keeping his chin on my shoulder as he looked at me tilting his head.

"I am not sure." I said and turned to the side to face him. "Just tell me one thing, Rohan." I said and looked at the rain again. "Are you scared of commitments?" I heard Rohan let out a sigh as he stood straight behind me.

"Are you seriously asking me that?" He asked raising his eyebrows as I turned to look at him again, "Of course I am not! Why did you ask?" He said with a frown.

"Just..." I said shrugging my shoulders and leaned my back on the open door behind me.

"Really?" He asked raising his eyebrow at me, leaning his shoulder on the door and looking down at me.

"What happened to you? Don't tell me you are afraid of commitments!" He said widening his eyes dramatically and then laughed at his own joke.

"Shut up!" I said rolling my eyes at him.

"Just tell me whatever that's bothering you." He said with his soft eyes on me.

"Are you avoiding marriage?" I asked with a plain face without beating around the bush.

"When did I avoid that?" He asked taken aback by my question, "I just asked for one more year, Arohi."

"I know. I just wanted to know that it's happening after one year. There's no more pushing it further?" I said with a serious tone. Rohan looked behind to see if anyone was up there or could hear us but the sound of rain was too loud that I doubt it. Aai Baba already went to their room as Baba had to take medicines and it was anyway too late now for them to stay awake. And we are up here in the terrace, they definitely won't hear us.

"There were reasons why we pushed it further in the past. You know that very well. Even now, there are reasons why I asked for one more year. You have an album coming up soon." Rohan looked back at me. His voice was low and calm, "Besides there are few other commitments you should take care of." He paused for some time looking at me carefully. I kept looking up at him, waiting for him to speak again. He was right about the work commitments. I have too much on my plate right now to think or invest myself in anything.

"Ben is waiting for me." Rohan continued after few moments, "I have a world tour coming up in next couple of months." He gave me a small smile before starting again.

"We need to finish off these things first." He said, his voice calm, "That's when we could give our whole time to the marriage." I smiled a little at him being happy. That's all I wanted to hear.

I very well know about our work commitments and busy schedule that's coming up. But marriage has been something I felt like Rohan was avoiding. I just wanted to clear that. It didn't bother me much before when we started dating. It was too early to get married then and of course there was plenty of work. Back then when Aai Baba brought up that topic I'll always leave it onto Rohan's hand for him to handle it. I never gave my opinion, if I want to get married or not. Also, I and Rohan haven't really talked about it.

But now, when Aai Baba asked him about marriage, I was expecting a positive answer or I wanted to hear a positive answer from him. I just want to get married to him. I want him to be my husband and not my boyfriend anymore. I don't know since when I started having the thoughts of marriage but I know I do want to get married. I don't want to push it further.

"I don't just want to marry you for the sake of it, Arohi." He said further. I was just staring at him with admiration, with the smile still on my face. "I want to be there with all of me without thinking about anything else." He said further coming a little closer to me.

"I guess you're right." I said smiling at him. Rohan gave me a smirk.

"I always am!!! You just doubt me too much." He said locking me between him and the door behind, staring down at me. He slid his hand around my waist and pulled me closer as he bend down a little. I chuckled at him and planted a small kiss on his cheek.

"By the way, Ben is still waiting to hear from you." He said.

"Yes, I did talk to him." I said playing with his shirt button, "And I'm gonna do that album when we are married." I said looking up at him with a smirk. "That way I can stay with you." I finished shrugging my shoulders.

"You can still do that." Rohan said in a confused tone, "Why to wait till marriage?"

"No ways!!! I am not pushing it further." I said narrowing my eyes at him. Rohan let out a laugh.

"Okay!!! Whatever you say." He said.

"What about..." I started but stayed quiet as I wasn't sure how to start that topic. Rohan looked at me with questioning face.

"Umm... Your mom and dad?" I asked carefully. The smile on his face dropped and it made me feel guilty. But I needed to ask this sooner or later so yes here I am. I haven't met them yet but I want to in the future. I want them to attend at least our marriage. I want at least his mother to see her son wed. I don't know if it's too late now but still, if he can mend his differences with them or at least his mother. Even a little bit. Maybe he wants that too.

"What about them?" Rohan asked not being sure.

"You are going to talk to them, right?" I asked again. Rohan stayed quiet. He had plain expressions on his face. I let out a sigh.

"The one year is not just to handle the work commitments. Right?" I said looking at him with concern.

"You know everything too well," Rohan said in a low voice but the expressions on his face didn't change. He looked at me as I smiled a little. He gave me a grateful smile and I felt at ease.

"It's you after all." I said in a low voice, "Talk to them."

"I will... Soon." He said giving me a small smile. I smiled looking back at him without stretching the topic as I know it's sensitive for him just like how Aaryan is. He has never brought any of them in any conversation we have. 

Rohan moved his gaze and looked at the rain outside. Just when I got an idea in my brilliant mind to lighten up his mood.

"What to get drenched?" I asked getting excited. Rohan looked at me giving horrified expressions as if I asked him to have sex with me in the rain. Well, actually he would have got excited if I have asked that. I rolled my eyes at the thought.

"What? No!!!" He said pulling away from me. I chuckled looking at those cute expressions of his.

"No??" I asked raising my eyebrows and trying to contain my smile, "Why not?"

"Are you serious?" Rohan asked taking another step away from me, "And how am I gonna go to Aunty and Uncle after getting drenched?" It was so much fun irritating him and then seeing those wrinkles on his face.

"Umm well... That's for you to worry about." I said shrugging myself as I made myself move closer to him and pulled him with a force to the open terrace, "Let's go!!!"

"SHIT!!! No... Arohi..." Rohan said but too late we were already out in the rain getting drenched as those heavy drops poured on us. He had a frown on his face as he looked at me.

"You are..." He was saying when I cut him in between.

"Too adorable." I said shrugging my shoulders, "I know..." Rohan let out a chuckle hearing that and ran his hand through his hair. I smiled widely looking at him as I moved closer to him, my hands traveled around his neck.

"One year, huh?" I asked with a small smile playing on my lips. Rohan pulled me closer grabbing me by my waist.

"Yup!!!" He said smiling down as the water was flowing from his hairs and then making its way to his face, "So by next year, you'll be Mrs. Arohi Shirke Nanda." He said with a wide smile

"I can't wait for it," I said and raised my toes to get closer to him. Rohan smirked at me.

"Me neither." He whispered as he pressed his lips against mine. I closed my eyes feeling his warm tongue slid inside my mouth. I smiled through the kiss letting him dominate. He deepend the kiss as the rain showed no mercy pouring down on us. I felt a strange happiness fill my heart.

Although we are almost like a married couple even now, the idea of getting married to him legally and being called his wife and having him as my husband just made me feel excited. I know our lives are going to be always tough and marriage is not going to make it any easier. In fact, it's only making our relationship more challenging. But we both want to move forward with this relationship and grow together.

I know that getting married is not going to magically make all time gap, distance or workload disappear. Or I don't believe that it's going keep me closer to him always. My and Rohan's career will never allow us to settle down in one place unless one of us give up on our career. And that's not even in the option for us. We can take break from work but we can never quit.

Our lives are going to be exactly the same as now even after marriage. We are still going to struggle to keep in touch, bear the longing for each other, get only limited time to spend with each other. But you know what makes me excited for marriage? It's the effort that we'll be putting in, we'll work at it even harder than we do now. We'll make it a priority right next to our career. We'll try to make our career and marriage go hand in hand. There will be more fights, more tears, more struggles but there will also be more togetherness, more passion and even more love. Nothing will matter when we'll meet and nothing can ever replace the feeling, we feel when we will be in each other's arms.

I can't wait for those days laying a year ahead of us when we'll begin a new phase of our life together.

-----------------------------------
So it's not gonna be easy, it's
gonna be really hard and we're
gonna have to work at this every
day, but I wanna do that because
I want you. I want all of you,
Forever. You and me.
Everyday.
-------------------------------------

So that was it. Hope you enjoyed it as much we enjoyed writing it. The final chapter of this book. The journey in this book has finally come to an end.

Thank you so much once again from the entire gang. Yes, with Abeer and Sara included now. 😁🥰

Loads of love from us to you all.❤️