A/N: Long chapter ahead! Enjoy! Happy reading lovelies ❤️

|MEERA|

My breath hitched when I realized that the girl hugging him was his girlfriend. Why the fuck was she here? Why the hell was he hugging her? Everything that happened just a few hours ago, the moment we shared, the hug, the kiss and the memory that we lived together was all of it a lie?

Why is he so hell-bent on making my life miserable? Sheena was shaking my shoulders trying to get my attention. "Meera come on let's go! Don't take this to your heart I am sure she's just here to pay her respects." I shook my head as tears cascaded down my face.

"How do you know that? What if they are still together? Then what? I can't believe he told her about Sister Brenda!" I stared at the two of them, Veer was shaking his head and that bitch was rubbing his arms as if trying to calm him. Excuse me for my language but I really hate her.

"Meera! Set your head straight and for once can you think positively? Veer and Jia haven't been together in years! They were done almost four years ago and barely dated for a year! I don't think she means anything to him! Come on let's go! I am sure they are just friends and nothing more!"

I clenched my fists as Sheena pulled me away towards the car. Jia Bakshi granddaughter of my Dad's and Viraj Uncle's once upon a time boss, Officer Bakshi. Jia is a year younger than us. We used to see her sometimes when we were younger when our parents were invited to Officer Bakshi's house.

She is really pretty, she has beautiful green eyes that had brown specs and long brown hair. Her physique was obviously perfect. She's a fashion designer. Therefore, her choices in clothes were always amazing. Her parents separated at a very young age and since then she lived with her mother most of the time and her mother used to bring her to her grandparent's house quite often actually. We didn't meet up with Officer Bakshi that often but whenever we did she was always there. So, in a way Veer and I have known her since we were kids.

As young kids Veer and I had our stupid fights once in a while but the worst ones usually happened when we met this Jia. I hated her from a very young age. I am not saying this because she dated Veer or anything, well that is one reason but the other one was that she hated me first.

We met her for the first time when Veer and I were five and she straight up ignored me. She always did things to catch Veer's attention. When we were teenagers it was pretty evident that she was jealous of the bond that Veer and I have or at least had.

What pricked me the most was when Veer brushed it off one time when I told him about my observation. Asshole told me that I was overthinking and added that I should let it go. To add more fuel to my anger he even said that she was a nice girl and I should get to know her.

This was one of the main reasons why I hated going to these get-togethers. I was always thankful that we didn't go there often. A few days after this ridiculous meeting Veer and I would not talk to each other for at least three days. Don't get me wrong I have a lot of respect for Officer Bakshi it's just that I don't like Jia.

The worst of all was when he introduced her as his freaking girlfriend five years ago. That's when another part of me shattered. It took me two years to get over him, to get used to the idea of not talking to him and this asshole goes out there and gets himself a girlfriend. Obviously, my self-esteem was shattered.

That Jia had the audacity to smirk at me when he introduced her as his girlfriend. Even now when I think about it I lose my cool all over again. Veer's parents along with mine were definitely furious. But, I stayed strong and pretended like it didn't matter. I did not want to give her satisfaction.

I was lost in my thoughts when I heard my Dad calling for me from the driver's seat. I glanced out of the window to see that we were already on the road. "Meera, are you okay sweetheart?" I sighed nodding my head and looked at him through the rare view mirror.

Sheena and Andy were as usual fighting about something. I smiled when I saw Andy swatting away her arm as she tried to ruffle his hair. My Mom was talking to someone on the phone. "Are you sure?" My Dad once again asked me with concern in his voice.

I sighed smiling at him. I literally have to force my lips to do so. "Yes, Dad! I am fine! Don't worry about me!" Saying so I turned my head to stare at the trees. Within a few minutes, we reached the church.

I tried to ignore the pain in my chest when I saw Jai rubbing Veer's back, trying to comfort him. Karan who was standing behind them gave me a sympathetic smile. I glared at him even when I knew it wasn't his fault. I needed to vent out my anger but for now, I need to cool down.

Why am I acting like a jealous girlfriend? We hadn't even dated for god sake! Mr. Veer Gupta made sure that never happened. Once the service in the church was done we drove towards Veer's house.

I sighed closing my eyes. I didn't want to go there. "Hey! Are you really okay? Don't lie to me? You may get away with such stuff with your father but I know you better than anyone! So, don't lie to me!" My Mom caressed my cheek.

I must have been really out of my mind that I didn't even notice that my Mom had exchanged seats with Andy. Sheena was sitting at the other end and my Mom was seated between us. "Mom! I swear I'm fine! Okay? Just leave me alone for a while. I hate it that she's gone but I have to say she was really peaceful when she went. She looked really content!"

My mom sighed and tucked a piece of my hair behind my ear. "Okay, if you say so and I'm sure Sister Brenda is in a better place. Um, I didn't want to say anything but are you like this because of Jia?" I glared at her, why would she even say that?

"Just making sure you're fine! That's all!" She exclaimed raising her hands in surrender. I scoffed rolling my eyes. God Damit! How do mothers know everything? It's almost creepy as to how she can catch my mood swings within a jiffy. Most of all she can even pinpoint the reason for my misery.

"Mother! For the first and the last time! I don't care about the relationship that Jia and Veer share! They can do whatever the hell they want and it's none of my business what they do! Actually, it none of our business as to what they do or what is happening between them! So, can you not bring her up in any of the conversations?"

I was literally screaming now. My Dad switched off the radio staring at us through the rare view mirror. Andy had a serious look on his face while Sheena almost looked like she didn't want to be here. My Mom had a cool expression on her face because this was an argument we had all the time when Veer and Jia dated in the past.

"There's no need to shout! I was only making sure. Meera, I love you and I worry about you. That's why I asked you, that's all. Nothing more to it. We'll not have this discussion again okay? If that's what you really want!"

I closed my eyes breathing through my nose. She's my mother and she's right I can't talk to her like this. She's after all concerned about me. "I'm sorry I'm just there are too many things happening today! That's all! I don't want to talk about this again, so please for the love of God, don't bring this topic again!"

Saying so I wrapped my arms around her right arm and buried my face in her neck. I could hear my mom sigh. She placed a kiss on my head and promised me to not bring up this topic ever again.

I mumbled a small thank you. Her soothing smell and the warmth of being near my Mom calmed me down immensely. All I wanted to do was sleep. The drive was after all long so my eyes closed on their own and I fell into a deep slumber.

I was snoozing and luckily didn't have any dreams for the first time. My mom woke me up when we reached Veer's house. The moment I stepped out of the car my Dad pulled me in for a hug. "I love you! Everything will be okay! I promise! You'll see for yourself !"

I wanted to laugh hard and tell him how stupid that was because everything is never fine in my life. One good thing happens and the next moment equally a hundred bad things happen. But, instead, I hugged him back and nodded my head. I didn't want him to be worried about me.

He kissed my forehead and walked away to help my Mom with some arrangements. My Mom was the one who was responsible for the food so that was given. Everyone was mingling with each other while walking towards the backyard. I just stood there leaning against my car.

Sheena bumped her shoulders with mine and gave me a cheeky grin while I scoffed rolling my eyes. "What? Why are you smiling like that?" I was getting annoyed! How can she be happy when Veer was with that Jia? I had seen them go towards the backyard a few minutes ago. She was literally all over him!

"Ohh come on Meera! Don't be rude now! I have some good news!" She wiggled her brows like she usually did when she wanted to gossip or say something which was usually good but nothing about today was good so I wasn't exactly pinning my hopes on that. "Really? What about the kiss Veer gave you a few hours ago?" My stupid fucking subconscious mind chided at me.

I snarled and brushed away the thought. "Okay, enough of grinning like a creepy person! Get to the point! Tell me what you want to tell me and let's just get this over with!" Sheena gave me a sour look shaking her head in disappointment. She touched my shoulders and nodded her head as if she had concluded. I rolled my eyes pushing her away.

"Meera! You really are tensed! You need to loosen up girl! When was the last time you had fun?" I shrugged my shoulders. I didn't know. Things have been crazy since I have come back from my deployment so I haven't really had an actual vacation at all.

Sheena shook her head in disappointment. Then she waved her hands in the air. "Ugh! Never mind! We'll get to that later! So, while you were sleeping like a beast in the car I made an effort to get in touch with Karan, and guess what I found!!!"

I rolled my eyes. She had to be this dramatic. I swear she does be this on purpose to irritate the shit out of me. "What did you find out Sheena? Tell me fast! Can we get over this soon? I'm hungry!" She rolled her eyes flipping her hair and gave me a bored expression.

"Fine! I'm telling! Buzzkill. Meera Veer and Jia aren't back together. She's here only to support him and also to make sure he's fine or whatever. So, there's no need for you to worry about her. Not my words they were said by Karan himself. Apparently, Viraj Uncle had informed her grandfather so yeah that's probably why she's here."

It felt like I could finally breathe once again but why should I care? It's not like we're dating or together anyway? I don't understand why I give him the much power to hurt me? He doesn't act as I do. He's a master at concealing his emotions. I wish I could do that. At least then I don't have to tell a lie every time I deny the fact that I don't care about who he's with.

Keeping a cool face I turned towards Sheena and shrugged my shoulders. "Yeah, whatever! I don't care. Look I may have overreacted that time but I really don't care what he does or who he is with." Sheena stumbled back with a bewildered expression.

"Wow! Just wow!" She clapped her hands together while giving me a bitter smile. "Meera when will you realize that you're never getting over Veer? You can lie to the world but at least don't lie to yourself! I'm sorry but I really have to say this! Both of you are helluva stubborn! If moping around and living in pain for the past seven years means that you have gotten over him, my friend you are highly mistaken! That is not getting over! Either completely move on or go tell him your feelings. I can't see you destroy yourself anymore!"

I gaped at her retreating figure as she walked away after shouting at me. I banged hands against the car. I wanted to scream and shout with frustration because Sheena was so right. But, she didn't get all of it. Only if it were that easy for Veer and I to be in a relationship. Only if it were that easy to admit my feelings to him.

It wasn't and that was what complicated everything. I was the one who went to confess my feelings to him seven years ago but he was the one who crushed it even before it could mean anything. I'm not going to do that again. I have already done it once and have been living with its consequences for all these years.

If there has to be some sort of progress between Veer and me then he has to show me that he wants it just as much as I want it. He needs to prove that, not sit there with his stupid stoic face. Taking a few more minutes to compose me I walked towards the backyard.

I smiled for the first time in hours. It was nice to see everyone together. Sister Brenda would have wanted this, all of our families together. My Mom smiled at me when she noticed my presence. Everyone was seated at different tables that were neatly arranged in the backyard.

I gave her a small smile and my eyes automatically searched for Veer. I saw him sitting at a corner table and surprisingly he was staring at me intensely almost like studying my face while nodding his head absent-mindedly to whatever Jia said. I turned my face away and walked towards where all the food was kept.

I made myself a plate and walked to the table where Ira, Sheena, and my brother were seated. Sheena glared at me while I gave her an apologetic smile. "Hey, can we talk later? There are just too many things going on!" She sighed nodding her head and gave my hand an assuring squeeze. "Sure! That's not a problem! But, no more lies! At least not with me!"

I closed my eyes and breathed out. Finally, after contemplating for a few seconds I nodded my head reluctantly. "Fine!" I gritted out and she gave me a huge grin. Ira and Andy didn't pay much attention as they were busy arguing about something.

"Meera Di! Can you please tell him to shut up?" I laughed at her nodding my head. "Sure! Shut up, Mikey!!!" Andy hated that pet name but I used it just to annoy him. He glared at him and slammed his hands on the table. "Di! Don't call me that! You can't ask me to shut up! You don't even know what I'm talking about!" I shrugged my shoulders and took a bite of my sandwich.

"I don't have to know! You're just annoying! So, just shut up!" I told him between chewing my food. He scoffed taking a sip of his water. "Ha! Whatever! I was trying to be on your side but have it your way." I narrowed my eyes at him when Ira hit his shoulder and gave him a "what the hell is your problem look?"

I narrowed my eyes at Ira who was now eating her food like the conversation didn't happen at all. Andy was now smirking at me. "What is this about? Will anyone of you tell me?" Ira gave me sweet smile shaking her head and muttering nothing.

"Ira! Andy! For the last time! What are you both planning? Tell me now!" Ira rolled her eyes. I could see from my peripheral vision that Sheena was trying to not smile. God! It's never good news when all of them join together to plot something. Especially, Ira and Sheena. Even though Ira is young and innocent most of the time she can be very mischievous.

"I'll tell you Di! No need to break your head so much!" Andy exclaimed while Ira and Sheena started shouting at him to not tell me anything. "Shut up both of you! Andy tell me what's going on! Now!" Andy smirked at them like he spoilt their plan.

"They have planned to have a bonfire night next week! Only us young adults. Without our parents!" What the Fuck? Bonfire! I hate bonfires! Not in general but the ones that include Veer in it. I didn't want to attend one. Fucking hell! I gave him a sweet smile and threw a glare at Ira and Sheena who was now looking everywhere but at me.

"Thanks for telling me, Andy! You're the best brother. Ira, Sheena I'm going to save both of you some time! I'm not attending this stupid bonfire. Do you guys know how much I hate it? Then why did you plan for this sort of thing? I am not attending and that's final!"

I shouted the last part and began eating my food. Ira slapped Andy's arm as hard as she could. "Andy, you're a traitor! Why can't you keep your mouth shut? Meera Di you have to come! It's been years since we had one with all of us together! Besides don't throw a fit! You'll be surprised to know that Veer Bhai has also agreed to attend it! Since when do you hate it? You used to love it so please come!"

Ira pleaded with me with a cute face. Did veer agree? Wow, that had to be a first. I used to love bonfires until one fine day when Veer Gupta bought his girlfriend to it. It was the worst evening slash night of my life. Way too many things happened. a catfight and maybe Jia might have got scratched by me. Don't blame me she was asking for it.

Since then whenever we have these get-togethers neither did Veer or I went for this bonfire. The rest of them always went. So, I'm really surprised that he agreed to this. I don't know what his reasons were to not attend but whatever if he wants to go by all means he can.

I glanced at Veer who was now talking to Karan and Jia was on the other table talking to Viraj Uncle and Naina Aunty. "Veer's coming?" I frowned and asked her once again. "Mmhmm, he sure is! Will you please come? It's not fun or the same without both of you! Please!"

What the hell? What's the worst that could happen? Everything is already done so why the hell not? I sighed in defeat and nodded my head. "Okay, fine I'll be there!" Ira screamed and hi fied Sheena who let out an excited squeal. Ira gobbled up the rest of her food and ran towards Tanya informing her that I will be coming for the bonfire as well. Tanya screeched and both of them started making plans with so much excitement.

Oh god! It's never too good when these two get together and plot things. The rest of the afternoon passed without any hassle. Jia was sticking to Veer but I could sense that Veer hated it and was pushing her away. I stayed away from them.

Sheena and I didn't really get to have a conversation because we were never alone. For some reason, I still wanted to go to Pune for a few days. I think it's best if I leave tomorrow. I just need some space. Maybe Sheena can come with me.

One by one everyone left the house until it was only us. Ira, Tanya, and Nisha were huddled up plotting something together, which was a very dangerous sight. They always did crazy things. Harish, Ankit, and Andy were playing on their phones.

Sheena was in the washroom while I had no clue where Veer and Karan were. I walked towards the kitchen to talk to my Mom about me leaving tomorrow. We argued for twenty minutes after which she finally agreed not because of my valid points but because Dad intervened at the last minute by taking my side.

Sheena was busy playing monopoly with the rest of them so I decided to go to the terrace. It was almost six in the evening. I leaned over the railing and closed my eyes basking in the last rays of sunlight for the day.

I love this time of the day. I love when the sun sets and the beautiful night sky filled with stars comes up. It's the most amazing thing ever. Something about the dark is really comforting. I feel like we can hide our vulnerabilities and just be ourselves without other things defining us.

I sighed in content when I stared at the sky which was now almost purplish. A few more minutes and it'll be completely dark. "Well, I thought I would find you here and I was right!" I whipped my head when I found Veer at the entrance of the terrace.

Oh lord please give me the strength to handle his presence. I sent a silent prayer to the almighty. I turned again to stare at the night sky trying to ignore his presence. Veer came to stand beside me. Thank God there was some distance between us. At least he respected boundaries.

He lit a cigarette with a lighter puffing out a cloud of smoke. I frowned at him giving him a disgusting look. Since, when did he smoke? "Okay, It's none of my business but since when do you smoke?" He glanced at me taking another puff. Smoke surrounded him and he looked even more handsome. Great! There goes my sanity! He shrugged his shoulders and stared at the sky.

"It's been a while! A year or so. It's not a regular habit but I have to since I'm super stressed right now." I raised my brows at that. "Really? That's surprising! For the record, I'm stressed as well but do you see me smoking that cancer stick? Give me that thing!"

I pulled the cigarette out of his mouth, throwing it on the floor I stomped it with a satisfied smirk. Veer glared at me for a few seconds. I don't give a shit, I hate that thing and I hate it when people smoke. He smirked pulling out another one he lit it and puffed out smoke.

I scoffed and walked towards the other side. I don't want to deal with him or that smoke right now. A few minutes later he came and stood next to me. He cleared his throat trying to catch my attention. I could see him chewing something. Maybe a mouth freshener? Our arms brushed against each other.

"What do you want Veer?" I asked him tiredly. I'm trying to get him out of my thoughts but he keeps coming back which doesn't help. "I heard you're going to Pune tomorrow. Why are you going?" I would have happily answered his questions if things were normal between us, but nothing was cordial or normal between Veer and me.

"Yes, I am going! Why I'm going is none of your business! So, I suggest that you leave me alone. Besides I'm sure that you're girlfriend must be waiting for you! Why don't you go back to her?" I air quoted the word girlfriend while glaring at him.

I could feel Veer's body shaking with anger but I could care less. He's the one who started this so he will have to endure it. He pulled my arm and forced my body to face him. I glared at him trying to pry myself out of his grip.

He moved his face closer to mine. My heart stopped beating for a moment. I could smell his smoky and minty breath. "Jia and I are not together anymore! The sooner you understand that the better it will be for both of us. Am I clear?"

I squeaked trying to pry myself once again. "Fine!" I gritted out and he finally let me go. I shoved his chest pushing him away. "Leave me alone! Just go Veer! I am going because I want some peace of mind which is clearly impossible with you everywhere I go. That's why I'm going okay? Happy?"

Veer once again came close to my face and held my chin in a tight grip. I felt butterflies in my stomach but decided to ignore it. What the hell was wrong with this man? Does he have any idea about private spaces? "Well, get used to it because you aren't getting any peace of mind! I'm coming with you to Pune whether you like it or not."

I stared into his dark eyes and stopped squirming. The feel of his strong chest against mine and the way his breath wafted against my face. I loved it all but will never admit it loudly.

He stared deeply into my eyes for a few more minutes and did something unexpected. He leaned forward just like he had done this morning. I was breathless when he placed a long kiss on my forehead with his perfect lips. Then he ran his lips down my brows, then my eyelids, and finally pressed it to my cheek. My heart was thudding against my chest!

With that he let me go and left the terrace. I let out the breath that I had been holding ever since he pulled me close. I traced my fingers over the trail that his lips had touched. I felt heat passing through my entire body. Who was this Veer? What happened to the old Veer who was good at pushing me away? That's when I realized I was doomed or was I not? Tomorrow is the only way to find out.

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A/N: I need a fan no an air conditioner to cool down. Damit, the chemistry between Meera and Veer is too much for me to handle! What do you guys think?

I'm sorry for leaving you guys hanging the last time but it had to be done! I enjoyed your misery though 😂. It was really nice to read all of your frustrating comments! I can understand so here's presenting Jia to you 😂🤭.

Who's excited for the Pune trip that'll be coming up soon? I have planned some amazing things for you folks! More Meera and Veer coming up! I need a ship name for them. Can you guys come up with one?

Hope you liked this chapter! If you did please do vote and comment! I would love to know what you guys think!