|AUTHOR|

|3 Days later|

It was finally the weekend. Today was Veer's birthday. Ira and Tanya had planned a lot of things for the bonfire that was to be held in Veer's backyard. But, for that to happen they had to make sure that none of their parents would be present in the house. They had even planned to arrange some cocktails.

Ira had ordered some firewood for the bonfire she was walking around the backyard with a clipboard in her hand to make sure everything on the checklist was ticked off. "Firewood check, kindling check, matchsticks check, blankets check and the only thing left is food!"

She muttered to herself as she ticked everything off the list except for the food. The responsibility of arranging all the food for this event was Tanya's. Just when Ira was thinking about her Tanya entered the backyard and hugged her.

Ira frowned and was about to ask her what made her this excited. But, before that Tanya screeched on top of her voice. "What the hell Tanny? Why are you screaming? Are you out of your mind?" Tanya shook her head and giggled.

She clapped her hands together and bounced on her feet. "I have some amazing news!" Ira's face brightened, she hugged the clipboard that had the checklist paper attached to it and bounced on her feet just like Tanya had done. "Really? Please tell me you figured out where we're sending our parents? And please tell me it's not your boyfriend's idea?"

Tanya blushed when Ira referred to Andy as her boyfriend. She shoved Ira and ducked her head. "He's not my boyfriend and yes it was his idea. Why do you hate him so much?" Tanya tucked a piece of hair behind her ear and whispered while asking her the question.

Ira rolled her eyes and scoffed. "Oh please! Anyone would be blind to not notice what has been going on between both of you! I don't hate him I just dislike him is all. He can be really annoying! He messes my hair every single time! Ugh, and you know I hate it when people touch my hair!"

Ira angrily exclaimed and ran her fingers through her long black hair. Tanya rolled her eyes scoffing at her silly excuse. Ira and Andy had a love-hate relationship more like Tom and Jerry. They do love each other like a brother and sister but refused to admit it. Even when they were younger more fights occurred between Andy and Ira. Meera and Veer would always be the ones to sort it out.

"You know what we can argue about this later! I'm here to tell you where we're sending our parents! Also, I have ordered the food for this evening so you can check that off the list!" Ira nodded her head enthusiastically and checked it off her list.

"So, what's the plan? Where are we shipping them off too?" Ira asked her with a giggle and Tanya joined giggling. "So, there's supposed to be this resort in Mussoorie, which is called The Marriott! They have amazing ratings and they have a spa, swimming pool, and much more." Tanya ranted as they walked around the backyard.

"There's only one problem!" Ira nodded her head sympathetically. They knew what the problem was. "How are we going to convince our parents?" They exclaimed together and let out a huge groan. "Wait! He already booked it right? That way we have more chance of convincing them to go away for the weekend!"

Tanya grinned nodding her head. "He did! I told you Andy is not stupid!" Ira rolled her eyes but decided not to argue, this wasn't the time. "Well, that's great! Wait, how the hell did he pay?" Tanya laughed as she narrated. "He used Meera Di's debit card to make the payment. I don't think she'll mind but Andy will definitely be in trouble because he wasn't supposed to know any details of that card. I'm waiting for that to happen!"

Ira too began laughing. Meera and Andy's fights were always hilarious and entertaining. A few seconds later they were yet again pondering as to how they were going to convince their parents. Ira's eyes gleamed and she snapped her fingers when an idea pooped in her mind.

"The only person who will be hard to convince is your mom since it's Veer Bhai's birthday she might want to spend time with him. We should ask Veer Bhai to tell them and maybe even Meera Di. Only those two have the power to convince the elders. Veer Bhai can convince your parents while Meera Di can persuade her parents. The rest of them have to be on board considering everything is already booked and paid for! What do you think?"

Ira stated the solution while Tanya thought about it giving her a satisfied nod. "That actually sounds perfect! I'll go talk to Bhai! Why don't you go tell the plan to Meera Di? This is awesome! I can't wait for this evening!" The girls squealed and hugged each other before going inside to finish the final task.

Meera did not get a wink of sleep the entire night. She wanted to go to Veer's room and wish him but didn't have the courage. It hadn't been easy since the day they shared the beautiful moment. Veer had been ignoring her. She knew he didn't want to but he still was.

Meera wanted to go and tell him how the promise that he made that day was stupid. She wanted to tell him that she wants to give their relationship another chance but this time more than just friends. Everything sounded amazing in her head but it took a lot more than that to actually take the first step.

She groaned and buried her face in the pillow. She realized she was scared to put her heart in the line and that too for the second time. "You have to take the risk else you'll lose him forever! Is that what you want?" Her subconscious mind chimed in for the millionth time today and for the first time, Meera didn't ask it to shut up.

She knew that it was the truth. "God Damit! Flying planes and killing those bastards who threaten my country is so much easier!" She whined into the pillow. Just then there was a knock on the door. Meera pushed the covers away from her body. She tied her hair into a bun and straightened her loose T-shirt which was hanging off her shoulders. She was still in her pajamas.

Her heartbeat increased when she pondered upon the fact that it might be Veer but she brushed away the feelings and opened the door all the while holding her breath. She let out a gush of breath and sighed disappointedly when she saw Ira standing on the other side.

Meera brushed away the feelings and gestured at Ira to come in. Ira entered the room and shut the door. Meera gave her a suspicious look and looked at the package in her hand with curiosity. She sat on the edge of her bed and raised her brows at Ira who was now grinning widely.

"What's up Ira? How can I help you today?" Ira threw the package at Meera who caught it without a hassle. She peeped inside to find a beautiful dress. She took it out of the cover and let out a surprised laugh. "Ira! This is so beautiful! Is this for me?" Ira giggled, taking a seat next to her she nodded her head.

"Yes! This is for you! Tanya and I were sick and tired of watching you wear those Jeans and Tank tops! I mean don't get me wrong, you look amazing in them like a badass woman but seriously you need to change once in a while!" Meera glared at her but secretly she knew that Ira was right.

She hadn't thought that much about dressing up. Her lips morphed into a huge smile when she realized that the dress she was holding in her hand was blue in color. Veer always liked blue. Besides dressing sexy always did the job. Not to mention Kabir coming here today was definitely going to give this whole thing between Veer and her a huge push.

"I'm going to let that comment go because I really do like this dress and it's been ages since I wore one. So, thank you for this dress Ira!" Ira grinned widely and hugged her.

"Is everything set for the bonfire?" Meera asked as she traced the patterns on the dress with her fingertips. For some reason, she had really been looking forward to the bonfire, a far cry from how she had initially felt about it. What a huge difference a week made!

Ira thought this was the perfect opportunity to bring up the topic of convincing their parents. "Everything is done and ready! We do have one problem though?" Meera looked up from the dress and raised her brows asking her what the problem was.

"Umm, the thing is we don't want any of our parents to attend this bonfire. We just want it to be us, kids. So we may or may not have booked a resort where they can spend this weekend. Could you please help us with convincing our parents?? Please? I mean you won't be alone. Veer Bhai will also state his point but can you back him up?"

Meera's eyes widened but then Ira too had a point. It would be kind of awkward and formal with all the elders here. She thought about it for a while and then nodded her head. "Okay! Done! I'm up for it!" Ira squealed and hugged Meera who was now laughing.

"Ohh, I forgot to mention Kabir will be joining us. I hope you don't mind?" Meera asked as Ira pulled away and stared at her face. Heat crept across Ira's face. She looked everywhere trying to avoid Meera's questioning glance. She began fidgeting with her hands. Meera observed her curiously as Ira turned shy all of a sudden.

Meera smirked and decided to have some fun."Ohh it's okay Ira I'll tell him not to come! Since you have a crush on him and that might make it awkward for us and you right?" Ira's eyes widened as she looked at Meera. She shook her head vigorously.

No! I have no such feelings for him! I don't care if he comes! Okay, Meera Di I have to go now! Lots to um do you know!" Meera bit her lip trying to control her laugh as Ira stuttered and stumbled out of the room. She sighed and made a mental note to warn Kabir to stay away from Ira.

Ira may like him but it wasn't the right time. Ira was too young to be in a relationship and Kabir was kind of older than her. Maybe when Ira is a bit older then she wouldn't mind the both of them dating. Although she will kick Kabir's ass if he ever breaks Ira's heart.

Meera took a quick shower. She wore the dress and twirled in front of the mirror with a huge smile on her face. She curled her hair for the first time in years. The last time she had curled her hair was during her high school graduation. She blushed when she remembered how Veer had played with her hair and had whispered beautiful to her a million times that day.

She applied some light makeup, sprayed some perfume on her neck, and applied lip gloss. She wore a charm bracelet, with a matching necklace and hoop earrings. Once she was satisfied with her look, taking a deep breath she made her way towards the dining hall.

On the other hand, Tanya had begged, pleaded, and even cried a little bit after which Veer had finally agreed to tell everyone about the resort plan. "Why do they need to go Tanny? I swear if you're up to something I will not be attending the bonfire!"

Veer warned her with a stern voice. Tanya's lips trembled and she made puppy eyes at Veer who immediately regretted being rude to his baby sister. "Bhai! It's only for fun! I swear we're not planning anything crazy. We can have more fun without them hovering over us." Tanya slowly muttered.

Veer sighed and hugged his sister. "Okay, fine Tanny! I trust you! Now please smile at me!" Veer tweaked her nose while Tanya giggled. "Happy Birthday Bhai! This is going to be the best birthday ever!" Tanya exclaimed while Veer let out a laugh.

"Thank you, Tanny! Now, why don't you go to the dining hall and help mom setting up the table? I quickly shower and join you!" Tanya nodded her head and after giving him one last hug she left the room. Veer slumped into his bed and ran his fingers through his hair.

It had been no less than torture for him to control himself from seeing Meera. It took every ounce of his self-control to distance himself away from her. He was afraid that if things went this way he would end up breaking the promise. So, he had decided to leave the place as soon as his birthday celebration ends.

He knew this decision would hurt him but when it came to Meera and her safety he would do anything for it, even if it meant giving up on living. Sighing he tried to brush away the agonizing feeling that he had been drowning in for the past few days and went towards the washroom to take a quick shower.

After showering he dried his hair with the towel and pulled out some clothes from his wardrobe. He put on a black T-shirt and some grey pants. He brushed his hair with a comb and sprayed some Chanel perfume.

Pocketing his phone he exited the room and closed the door behind him. He sucked in a breath when he saw Meera descending the stairs from the other side. She looked like an angel in that blue dress. He wanted to hug her tightly and never let her go. He snapped out of his trance when someone cleared their throat.

His father Viraj stood right behind him raised his brows when he noticed the expression on his son's face. Veer cleared his throat while looking at his father. Viraj hugged his son. "Happy Birthday Veer! I'm proud of you my son!"

Veer sighed and relaxed in his embrace. "Thank you, Dad!" Viraj smiled and patted his back. The father-son duo walked towards the dining room together. Naina too hugged her son and kissed his cheek. Veer gave her a warm smile and hugged her tightly. Meera witnessed the entire scene with a warm smile on her face.

The rest of them wished him together and then settled on the large dining table. Conversation flowed easily across the table. Neel and Viraj were talking about something, the ladies were, as usual, gossiping and Arjun, Sameer, and Shail were laughing about something. While their kids just chatted among themselves. Sanjana Naina's sister had left a few days ago so it was just the friends and their kids again. 

Veer gazed across the dining table and his heart swelled with love. Never in his life did he imagine that he would be surrounded by so many people who loved him unconditionally. His eyes found Meera who looked beautiful and ethereal, she was laughing at something that Ira had said. Her eyes lightened up and a tinge of red spread on her cheeks as she laughed clutching her stomach. He hadn't seen her wear a dress in years. Somehow that made her look more jovial and beautiful.

He smiled when he realized her hair was styled into curls. He vaguely remembered how he used to love it when she curled her hair and how he would play with them. It's not that he didn't like her straight her but she looked amazing with those curls. It made her look more relaxed, calm, and of course pretty,

Meera moved her eyes towards the birthday boy only to find that he was already staring at her. She wondered as to how can a man so perfect and handsome. The muscles in his arms were popping out, the shirt fit him perfectly and he looked like a Greek god.

Meera gave him a small smile and mouthed "Happy Birthday!" She stared at him and waited for a response. Veer was still studying her face and trying to figure out why Meera was behaving this way. Taking a deep breath he gave her a small but noticeable smile and mouthed a "Thank you!"

That was all it took for Meera's heartbeat to skyrocket and she felt heat creep through her body. Ira cleared her throat when she noticed the brief but sweet exchange between them. Meera cleared her throat and took a bite of her boiled egg which was cut into small pieces.

Ira smirked at her. Meera raised her brows casually shrugging her shoulders. "What? Quit looking at me like that!" Meera mumbled while popping another piece into her mouth. "Umm, Di do you like Veer Bhai?" Meera's eyes widened and she began coughing. So much for thinking that she was being discreet.

Ira patted her back and passed her a glass of water. Meera gulped it down hastily and glanced at Veer who was looking at her curiously. "Ira! No, it's nothing um like that. I don't know where you got that idea from but trust me it's nothing like that okay?" Ira nodded her head but didn't stop smirking.

Before she could state more of her observations to Meera Tanya stood up catching everyone's attention. She told them that all the kids had booked a resort for the parents so that they would have a peaceful weekend. Boy, that did not go well. Naina started arguing and then Annie too joined her, while their husbands watched the entire scene unfold without uttering a single word.

Meera rolled her eyes when her Dad agreed with everything her mom told. Typical, he does that to avoid an argument. Then Neena, Isha, and Indu joined as well. "God, what is going on?" Ira muttered while Meera just shrugged her shoulders. That's when Veer finally stepped in.

"Mom! I think this is a great idea. You guys need a break from everything. Don't forget that we're all grown up. Everyone here is seventeen and above. Besides Meera and I are responsible enough. I think we can take care of them for one weekend. Right, Meera?" Meera stopped mid-bite as everyone stared at her waiting for a response.

"Yeah of course! Veer is right! You guys need to chill out for a while. Between the two of us, I think we can manage them. The only two who are hard to handle are Ankit and Andy but we'll figure something out!" The two boys glared at her but didn't argue while the rest of them laughed nodding their heads in agreement.

"But, Veer we wanted to spend the day with you seeing that it's your birthday and all," Naina stated her point sadly. Veer sighed and walked towards his mother. "Mom, your relaxing will be my biggest gift! Please go, you guys need this more than anyone. This past month hasn't exactly been the best. The resort is already booked and paid for so if you don't go now then it'll be a complete waste. I don't want that to happen!"

The rest of them started begging their parents together. Tanya made puppy eyes at Viraj and that was all it took to seal the deal. "I think we should go! The kids have taken so much effort. Naina let him enjoy with them! Let's go! It'll be fun plus we don't have to babysit!" They all laughed when Andy and Ankit declared that they weren't kids.

"Okay fine! Let's go!" Everyone cheered while Meera and Veer just smiled. Annie too was convinced when Meera assured her that she'll make sure that Andy doesn't get into any trouble. The rest of the morning was cheerful. Annie made a cake for Veer. He cut the cake happily. After having lunch all the parents left the house to go to the resort. Not before giving the boys a firm warning.

Meera and Veer went to their respective rooms until it was time for the bonfire. Ira and Tanya made the rest of the arrangements. Meera discovered that Andy had used her debit card to make the payment for the resort. She fumed and chased Andy across the entire backyard while Andy ran away screaming. The rest of them witnessed the entire scene all the while rolling on the floor with laughter. Even Veer who rarely laughed was now chuckling.

"How the hell did you know my pin? I swear if you tell me one more time that you're a genius and figured it out with your big brains I'm going to dump you in the pool!" Andy stood in front of a table to catch his breath as Meera stood on the opposite side. "Di, I'm really sorry! I didn't know what else to do!" Meera screeched and lunged at him.

She finally caught hold of his arm and twisted it behind his back. "Stupid! You could have asked me! Did you hack into my account? I thought we agreed that you won't do that the last time I warned you about it!" Andy screamed and tried to free himself. Although he was a bit taller than Meera and had more muscle Meera had a strong grip on him.

"Okay, okay I'm sorry! I won't do it again without your permission. I promise. Let go now! My arm hurts Di!" Once Meera was satisfied she let him go and Andy rolled his shoulder letting out a painful groan. "God Damit! You're a strong woman!" Meera scoffed at him flipping her hair she walked towards the living room.

Veer followed her and let the others handle whatever they were doing. He laughed when he heard Tanya and Ira chime "I told you so!" together. Shaking his head he entered the living room and found Meera sitting on the couch and watching some random show.

When Meera noticed Veer she scooted towards the side and patted the seat next to her, gesturing him to sit beside her. Veer was surprised but took a seat next to her. Meera cleared her throat, she tilted her head to glance at Veer. "Happy Birthday Veer!" She scooted closer until their shoulders were touching.

Veer gulped as her lavender scent hit his nose. He frowned and didn't know what to make out of this. They had to be away from each other right? Isn't that what they agreed on? Then why was Meera behaving this way? All these questions flashed in his mind.

"Thank you, Meera!" Veer whispered. Meera smiled at him and glanced at him through her eyelashes. Taking a deep breath she knew this was the moment to tell him what she wanted and what had been on her mind since the day he had made that stupid promise.

Taking a deep breath for the courage she internally cheered herself. She placed a shaky hand over one of his hands. Before he could move it away Meera entwined her hands with his. Veer's eyes widened as he looked at their hands. Meera ignored his gaze and stared at the television. Her heart was thumping and she felt electricity pass straight through to her heart.

What shocked him more was how much his body had been craving for her touch. "Meera! What. Are. You. Doing??" He gritted out as Meera tightened her grip. "Nothing just holding my friend's hand!" She replied casually without even stuttering.

Veer closed his eyes and pinched his nose with his free hand. He had to stop wherever this was headed. "Meera I thought we promised that we were going to stay away from each other? You know maintain some distance? This doesn't exactly seem that way!"

Meera turned her head and raised her brow. "Really? Did we now? What happened to that promise when you kissed me on the cheek a few days ago? Where was that promise then Veer? I would really like to know!" Veer glared at her because she was right and he hated that he was the reason to break their promise, again.

"I don't know what you're talking about!" Veer muttered his face void of any emotions. "Right, so this is how you want to play it?" Veer wasn't expecting that at all. He tried her pry his hand but her grip was strong.

"Meera! We're not having this conversation right now! I thought we already cleared this! We made a promise!" Meera scoffed at that and cursed under her breath. "What are you mumbling about?" Veer gritted out, her close presence was driving him crazy. He won't be able to control his actions if he sits here for any longer.

"I said Bullshit Veer Bullshit! We did not make that promise! You made it and didn't even give me a chance to speak!" Veer's mouth dropped open. He always assumed she was angry with him and didn't want to talk to him. So, he made that stupid promise and left the place.

"What? Are fucking kidding me? That is not true!" Meera turned her head completely so that they were face to face. She leaned forward until their breaths mingled. Veer noticed that her eyes were blazing with anger.

"You didn't even give me a chance to explain myself! You didn't even have the courtesy to ask me if that's what I really wanted! Veer you don't get to come all of a sudden mess up my feelings and then disappear just like that!"

Veer panted against her face and Meera was breathing hard. They were still clutching their hands together. Veer cupped her cheek with his left hand and leaned closer. Their nose brushed and their lips almost touched. Meera could almost taste his lips.

"What do you want Meera?" Veer asked and now Meera was panting against his face. She looked into his beautiful black eyes and for the first time could see how vulnerable he actually was. Meera wanted to take the chance so she closed her eyes and leaned forward. It was all up to Veer now, if he leans just an inch their lips would now be touching.

"I don't think that's a good idea!" Veer stared at her face closely and memorized every ridge on her face. "Why? Why do you push me away every single time! I want to know!" Meera opened her eyes and found him staring at her lips.

He brushed his fingers over her cheek and sighed against her lips. He placed his forehead over hers. "Please Meera stop me now! I could destroy you!" Veer muttered. Meera shook her head and ran her fingers over his cheek.

"You already did Veer you already did! I'm just giving you another chance!" Veer opened his eyes and stared into her brown eyes which had so much pain and agony. That's when it hit him as to how much he had hurt Meera.

He freed his arm from her hand and held her face in between his hands. He didn't know what to say or do as heat crept through his body. He kissed her forehead and Meera closed her eyes. He ran his lips down her brows, kissed her eyes, and then her cheeks.

Meera's heart was pounding as she panted trying to catch her breath. She felt butterflies in her stomach. That had to be a first. "I'm sorry!" Veer whispered and his lips were just an inch away from hers. At that very moment, the doorbell rang. Meera and Veer jumped away from each other. They now sat at the far ends of the couch with a decent distance between both of them. Their sibling entered the room.

Meera's cheeks were red and she tried to catch her breath. Veer clenched his fists trying to control his emotions.  A single question rang in their minds. Who the fuck was at the door? Kabir entered the room greeting everyone. Meera groaned and leaned into the cushion as Veer bolted from there trying to keep his anger at bay. Only if Kabir would have come a few minutes later.

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A/N: Okay, don't hit me😂. Can you feel the heat? Wow, I sure as hell did. The chemistry between Meera and Veer Woah. What do you think?

Will Veer finally let off the barriers and let Meera in?

Stay tuned to find out. The bonfire has only begun.

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