Happy reading.....

Mahir stirred in his sleep, feeling a weight on his chest. Groggily rubbing his eyes, he was irritated by something tickling his face.

Looking down, he discovered Bela curled up against him, her arms tightly wrapped around him, her head resting on his chest, and her hair cascading over his face. They were cuddled under the blanket, and Mahir's eyes widened in realization.

However, he soon relaxed when he heard her mumbling something in her sleep.

"Don't move," she muttered, snuggling closer to him. Her pouty, sleepy face made his heart flutter. He couldn't help but smile as he gently pushed her hair aside to clear her face.

"Bela, it's 6 AM already... don't you have to go to the office today?" he whispered softly.

She mumbled in response, "No, I want to sleep some more... don't irritate me, Didi."

Mahir burst out laughing, unable to contain his amusement. The sound of his laughter woke Bela up. She lifted her head, her eyes struggling to adjust to the light. As her vision cleared, she saw Mahir smiling down at her.

"Good morning," Mahir greeted her with a warm smile.

Bela blinked a few times, her expression shifting from confusion to embarrassment.

"Good morning," she replied, her voice groggy. She quickly realized their intimate position and tried to pull away, but Mahir gently held her in place.

"It's okay," he said softly. "You looked so comfortable. I didn't want to wake you."

Bela's cheeks turned pink as she met his gaze. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to... you know, invade your space."

Mahir chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't apologize. I didn't mind at all."

She sighed, relaxing back into his embrace for a moment before reluctantly sitting up. "I should probably get ready for the day."

Mahir nodded, sitting up as well. "Yeah, me too. But first, how about some coffee?"

Bela smiled, the awkwardness between them fading. "Coffee sounds perfect. But I will make it."

They got up, disentangling themselves from the blanket. Bela quickly brushed her hair and headed to the kitchen while Mahir made the bed. The early morning light filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room.

As Bela prepared the coffee, she couldn't help but think about the night they had shared. It was comforting, waking up next to Mahir, feeling his warmth and hearing his laughter. It felt... right.

Mahir joined her in the kitchen, watching as she moved around with practiced ease. "You know, you could have stayed in bed a bit longer," he teased.

Bela rolled her eyes playfully. "And miss out on having coffee with you? No way."

They both laughed, the morning beginning to feel like a perfect start to the day. As they sipped their coffee, sitting at the kitchen table, Mahir couldn't help but notice the comfortable silence between them.

"So," Bela began, breaking the silence, "What's on your agenda for today?"

Mahir shrugged. "Just the usual. Work, meetings, and a walk. How about you?"

"Pretty much the same," she replied. "Although, I might take a walk later. The weather seems nice."

Mahir nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Sounds good. Maybe we can walk together if our schedules align."

Bela's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "I'd like that."

They finished their coffee, enjoying the peacefulness of the early morning. The bond between them felt stronger, the laughter and comfort of the previous night lingering in the air. As they got ready for the day, both Mahir and Bela couldn't help but feel that something significant had shifted in their relationship, and they were eager to see where it would lead.

----

Bela was in her office, taking a break and chatting with her sister Vishakha over the phone. She was recounting the previous night's events, laughing at herself for calling Mahir "Didi" in her sleep.

Vishakha laughed heartily. "You really called him 'Didi'? What was his reaction?"

Bela smiled, her cheeks tinged with embarrassment. "He just laughed and said it was fine. Mahir's a good guy; he didn't mind at all."

After a moment of hesitation, Vishakha added, "By the way, Dad brought a proposal for me."

Bela practically screamed, "What?!" gaining the attention of her colleagues nearby. She quickly apologized, lowering her voice. On the other side of the call, Vishakha facepalmed at Bela's antics.

Bela bombarded her sister with questions. "Who is he? What does he do? How old is he? Where does he live? What's his personality like?"

Vishakha chuckled, "Bela, breathe before you ask another question."

Bela smiled, trying to contain her excitement. "I can't help it! It's so exciting!"

Vishakha shook her head, mumbling, "Crazy girl."

"Nah, di, tell me the details!" Bela insisted.

"I don't know much yet," Vishakha replied. "I just heard that his parents live in Amritsar, like us."

Bela's face lit up. "Oh, that's great! So they're from the same place. What else do you know?"

"The proposal was sent to a matchmaker, and Dad is considering it. I just overheard their conversation," Vishakha explained.

Bela sighed, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling inside her. "I hope it works out. But It's all so sudden though."

Vishakha's voice softened. "Don't worry too much, Bela. Dad will make sure it's a good match. Just trust the process."

Bela nodded, even though her sister couldn't see her. "I know."

"Now, get back to work before your boss catches you slacking off," Vishakha teased.

Bela laughed. "Alright, talk to you later."

As she hung up, Bela's mind raced with thoughts about the proposal. The excitement of the morning with Mahir was now mingled with anticipation about this potential match for her sister. Her colleagues, having noticed her animated conversation, smiled at her curiosity and energy, adding a light-hearted note to the office atmosphere.

Bela returned to her desk, her thoughts still swirling but feeling a renewed sense of optimism.

Anu glanced over at Bela, curious. "Why were you squealing a moment ago?" she asked.

Bela's face lit up with excitement. "My elder sister got a marriage proposal!" she said happily.

Anu's eyes widened in delight. "Really? That's wonderful news! If it works out, I might have a chance to go to your city and enjoy some days off."

Bela beamed. "That's exactly what I was about to say! I want to invite everyone to her wedding. It would be so great to have all of you there."

Anu grinned, sharing in Bela's excitement. "That sounds amazing. It would be so much fun. Do you know anything about the guy?"

Bela nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Not much yet, just that his family lives in Amritsar, like us. My father is considering the proposal seriously. My sister just overheard their conversation."

Anu nodded thoughtfully. "Well, I hope it all works out. And if it does, count me in for the wedding festivities."

Bela's smile grew even wider. "Absolutely! It will be a grand celebration, and having you all there will make it even more special."

The two friends chatted excitedly, already envisioning the joyous occasion and the fun they would have together.

Bela leaned in closer to Anu, her expression serious yet playful. "Why don't you just confess to Aditya?"

Anu was taken aback, her eyes widening in surprise. "What? No, Bela, it's not like that..."

Bela rolled her eyes, giving her friend a knowing look. "Come on, Anu. I knew it the day I joined the office."

Anu sighed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration. "He's not interested in me, Bela. And I won't waste my feelings on him anymore."

Bela frowned slightly but nodded in understanding. "So, what's your plan then?"

Anu straightened up, a determined look on her face. "I'm going to a pub today to enjoy my freedom. Just let loose and have fun."

Bela chuckled at her friend's resolve. "That sounds like a good plan."

Anu smiled but shook her head. "Actually, I wanted to ask if you could join me."

Bela hesitated, then said, "Not today, Anu. I have to share this news with Mahir."

Anu nodded, understanding. "Alright, but you owe me a night out soon."

Bela grinned. "Deal. Just make sure you have fun tonight. You deserve it."

Anu smiled back, feeling a bit more at ease. "I will."

------

Mahir was busy checking the details of the ongoing event, ensuring everything was running smoothly. The wedding hall was a hive of activity, and Mahir moved through it with practiced ease, his eyes scanning for any potential issues.

Suddenly, a beautiful young woman approached him. She looked nervous, her cheeks flushed.

Mahir paused, noting her attire, which suggested she was from the groom's side. "Do you need something?" he asked, his tone polite yet professional.

The young woman blushed deeper, shaking her head. "No, I don't need anything."

Mahir raised an eyebrow, sensing her hesitation. "Then what is it?"

Taking a deep breath, she spoke slowly, "I'm a guest at this wedding. I've been following you on social media."

Mahir hummed, his interest piqued. "Okay. Are you looking to hire me for an event?"

She shook her head quickly. "No, that's not it." Gathering her courage, she continued, "I like you."

Mahir watched her anxious expression, understanding the courage it took for her to confess. Offering a polite smile, he replied gently, "Thank you for liking me. You seem like an amazing person, but I'm not the right man for you."

Her face fell, and tears began to form in her eyes. Mahir quickly offered her his handkerchief. "Please don't cry. Pretty girls shouldn't cry."

She wiped her tears, shaking her head. "I know you're a good man, and I respect your rejection."

Mahir said, "I appreciate your understanding. Life has a way of leading us to the right people when the time is right. You deserve someone who can fully reciprocate your feelings."

She nodded, trying to muster a smile through her tears. "Thank you for being kind."

Mahir smiled back, his eyes warm. "You're welcome. Remember, there's someone out there who will be perfect for you. Don't lose heart."

She took a deep breath, feeling slightly comforted. "I hope so. Thanks again, Mahir."

As she walked away, Mahir watched her go, hoping she would find the happiness she deserved. With a sigh, he turned back to his work, his thoughts momentarily distracted by the unexpected encounter.

------

Tanya parked her bike in the company parking lot, adjusting her helmet and grabbing her file before stepping into the building. She wore a practical yet stylish outfit: dark jeans, a fitted white shirt, and a lightweight jacket, perfect for her engineering work. A colleague greeted her, but she ignored him, her mind already on the tasks ahead.

Inside the office, Daksh was already at his desk, engrossed in his system. When he looked up and saw Tanya, as cool as ever, he couldn't help but smile. "Good morning, Tanya."

"Good morning, Daksh," she replied, settling down beside him. She placed her file on her desk and started up her computer, ready for the day ahead.

Daksh leaned back in his chair, looking at her. "Did you hear what happened to Ruhaan?"

Tanya frowned, her hands pausing on the keyboard. "What happened to that idiot now?"

Daksh chuckled. "He's been reckless again. Raima already gave him an earful."

Tanya rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smirk. "I know my girl, she did good."

Daksh continued, "Also, Aditya, Bela, and Anu went to Pratham's restaurant the other day. They had a great time."

Tanya looked up, surprised. "Wow, so much happened while we were away. How was the food? Did they say?"

Daksh grinned. "From what I heard, it was amazing. Pratham always knows how to make it special."

Tanya nodded, leaning back in her chair. "We should go there sometime. It's been a while since we all hung out together at his restaurant."

Daksh agreed. "Definitely. But for now, how about we visit Ruhaan during lunch break? Check on him and maybe tease him a bit about Raima's scolding."

Tanya laughed. "Sounds like a plan. That idiot needs to know we're still looking out for him, even if he's being reckless."

The two of them returned to their work, the morning passing quickly with the promise of a lunchtime visit to their friend.

----

Tanya decided to take a break and went to the office kitchenette to make herself some coffee. As she was filling her cup, the colleague she had ignored earlier approached and deliberately brushed against her back, pretending to reach for something in the cabinet above her.

Tanya moved aside to give him space, but he moved with her, making it clear his actions were intentional. Fury welled up inside her, but she maintained her composure. She filled a cup with hot water, and as she turned, she poured it on him.

"Oh, I'm so sorry! It's just an accident." she said with feigned innocence, her smirk barely hidden.

The colleague yelped in pain and jumped back, his shirt soaking wet. Tanya left the kitchenette, her smirk widening as she walked away.

Back at her desk, Daksh looked up from his computer. "Whom were you cursing just now?"

Tanya set her cup down and rolled her eyes. "Some fucker misbehaved, so I taught him a lesson."

Daksh felt a surge of pride but also a wave of anger. His eyes darkened, and he clenched his fists, wanting nothing more than to confront the guy who had dared to touch Tanya. However, he knew Tanya well enough to understand she preferred handling her own battles unless it was something truly serious.

Respecting her strength and independence, he let it go, though the protective urge simmered beneath the surface. "Good for you. Teach those assholes some respect."

Tanya grabbed her bag and smiled at Daksh. "Let's go visit Ruhaan."

Daksh stood up, ready to accompany her. "Absolutely. He probably needs a good laugh right about now."

As they walked out of the office, Daksh couldn't help but glance back at the kitchenette, silently promising that any further misbehavior would not go unnoticed. Tanya linked her arm with his, and they made their way to Ruhaan's cafe, ready to support their friend and perhaps share a few laughs along the way.

When Tanya and Daksh reached Ruhaan's cafe, they were greeted by the sight of Pratham already giving Ruhaan an earful. Pratham's voice was stern and filled with concern.

"If you are hurt, you should get rest! Why are you working with that swollen shoulder? Do you want me to kick your ass, Ruhaan?"

Ruhaan, looking slightly sheepish, tried to protest, but before he could get a word in, Daksh burst out laughing as they entered the cafe.

"That's right, Pratham. His ass definitely needs a beating!" Daksh chimed in, still chuckling.

Ruhaan rolled his eyes but couldn't help the small smile that crept onto his face at the sight of his friends. "Oh, great, now I have the whole squad on my case."

Tanya smirked and crossed her arms. "Well, what did you expect, Ruhaan? You need to take care of yourself."

Pratham nodded in agreement, his stern expression softening slightly. "Exactly. You're no good to anyone if you make things worse by not resting properly."

Ruhaan sighed, finally conceding. "Alright, alright, I'll take a break. Happy now?"

"Ecstatic," Daksh said with a grin, clapping Ruhaan on the back gently. "Now, why don't you sit down and let us handle things here for a while?"

Tanya added, "And no more heroics. We're here to help, not watch you play martyr."

Ruhaan shook his head, but he couldn't help feeling grateful for his friends' support. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate it."

With that, they all settled into the cafe, ready to lend a hand and enjoy each other's company, ensuring Ruhaan got the rest he needed.

Daksh looked around the cafe and then turned to Pratham with a playful grin. "Pratham, didn't you bring food for us?"

Pratham rolled his eyes and pointed towards a table in the corner, where several packed food containers were neatly arranged. "Over there, genius."

Ruhaan, who had just laid down on a small bed in the back to rest his shoulder, suddenly sat up and jumped to his feet. "You brought food and didn't tell me?" he exclaimed, dashing towards the table.

"Easy there, tiger," Pratham said with a chuckle. "I was about to mention it, but you were too busy getting lectured."

Ruhaan ignored him, already digging through the containers. "This looks amazing," he said, his eyes lighting up as he uncovered various dishes.

Tanya and Daksh followed, their own excitement building. Tanya nudged Daksh. "Guess we'll forgive him for yelling at Ruhaan," she teased.

Daksh laughed. "Yeah, food makes everything better."

They all gathered around the table, the mood instantly lightening as they unpacked the food. Pratham had brought an impressive spread: fragrant biryani, butter chicken, naan, and a variety of side dishes and desserts.

"You outdid yourself, Pratham," Tanya said, her eyes wide with appreciation.

"Had to make sure you all ate well," Pratham replied with a modest shrug. "Especially you, Ruhaan. You need to keep up your strength."

Ruhaan, already stuffing his mouth with a piece of naan, gave a thumbs-up. "This is fantastic. Thanks, man."

As they settled down to eat, the cafe was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation, the earlier tensions melting away. The friends enjoyed their meal, grateful for the moment of respite and the bond that held them together.

*****

Ruhaan is bhukhad

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