Mishti P.O.V

The soft glow of candlelight flickered, casting dancing shadows on the pristine white tablecloth. A gentle breeze carried the sweet fragrance of jasmine, mingling with the subtle aroma of freshly baked bread. My heart pounded with anticipation as I meticulously arranged the delicate silverware, each piece gleaming under the warm glow. My gaze drifted towards the balcony door, as my were eyes searching for a familiar silhouette.

Abir is late.

A small frown creased my forehead, but it was quickly replaced by a hopeful smile. He was always punctual, always reliable. Perhaps he was caught up in work, or maybe a last-minute meeting had extended. I tried to reassure myself, but a tinge of worry crept into my heart.

As I sat on the chair, waiting for Abir, my mind began to wander back to the day I woke up from the coma. The memories were still hazy, but I remembered the feeling of confusion and disorientation.

I recalled the doctor's words, "You've been in a coma for three months, Mishti." Three months! It was hard to wrap my head around it.

And then there was Abir, my husband, who I didn't remember. He was a stranger to me, but his eyes were filled with love and concern. He held my hand, telling me about our life together, about our wedding

But I didn't remember any of it. The past two years of my life were a complete blank. It was as if I had woken up in a stranger's body, with no recollection of who I was or what my life was like.

At first I was overthinking way too much, what if Abir was playing with me, what if he kidnapped me, what if he was lying, what if he just wanted to use me...

Trusting a stranger in this world could be biggest mistake of my life but looking at him made me feel like he been loving me since decades.

As I sat there, lost in thought, I felt a pang of sadness. I had lost so much, and I didn't know if I would ever get it back.

I remembered how he would cook for me, feed me and carry me everywhere. He would work from home, just so he could spend the day with me. He would read to me, watch movies with me, and just sit with me in silence.

I recalled the way he would gently brush my hair, the way he would massage my sore muscles, and the way he would sing softly to me when I was in pain.

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I remembered the way Abir had cared for me. He had been my nurse, my chef, my chauffeur, and my everything.

And even though I couldn't remember our life before the accident, I knew that Abir's love and care for me were real. I could feel it in my bones, in the way my heart swelled with emotion whenever he was near.

No stranger would do so much for you, no stranger would let you live with his family if he kidnapped you, even if this is a lie I would happily accept it.

He didn't use me, he doesn't even sleep on same bed with me cause he feels he might touch my injuries. He hasn't even moved forward from cheek and forehead kiss.

All such stupid questions of mine were answered by his actions.

And in that moment, I knew that I would do anything to make him happy, to make our life together happy.

As I wiped the tears I felt a sense of clarity wash over me Life has given me the second chance and I am determined to make the most of it.

I took a deep breath, letting go all my doubts and fear, I couldn't change my past but I can shape my future.

Just then, I heard the sound of the door opening, and my heart skipped a beat. Abir was home.

I stood up, smoothing out my pink saree, and walked back into the house. "Hey," I said, trying to sound casual despite the excitement bubbling inside me.

Abir's eyes scanned the room, taking in the decorations and the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. A slow smile spread across his face as he spotted the candlelit table on the balcony.

My heart swelled with happiness as Abir walked towards me, his arms open wide. I knew that this was going to be a night to remember. As we embraced he was quick to plant a kiss over my forehead. I like it but I would have loved it if he would have been more bold and move a little downwards to kiss my lips.

"To ye tha surprise" he said, his eyes shining with appreciation. "Bohot accha hai. Khoobsurat hai bilkul tumhare jaise" he said taking in the look of me in the pink saree. A thanks left my mouth as my cheeks turned pink

"Pata hai mera favourite colour pink kyu hai?" He questioned taking my hand in his, I nodded in no as I glanced at him waiting for his answer.

"Kyuki tum pink tumhari sundarta me chaar sitare laga deta hai"

"Chaand hota hai wo chaar chaand" I corrected him. I have lost my memory but he behaves like he did.

"Naah. Tum khud chaand ho, tumhe aur teen ki kya zaroorat"

It made me laugh and was overwhelmed at the same time.
As I looked into Abir's eyes, I felt a sense of belonging that I had never felt before. Growing up as an orphan, I had always felt like I was on the outside looking in, never quite fitting in with anyone or anything.

But Abir and his family had changed that. They had taken me in, loved me, and accepted me as one of their own. And even though I couldn't remember my past, they had made me feel like I was a part of their family.

"Khaana khaaye?" He broke the silence, "bohot bhukh lagi hai, aur smell bhi acchi aa rahi hai"

I felt a sense of relief, maybe tonight would be start of something new, something beautiful. Maybe tonight would be the start of me finally finding a place in this world.

He pulled the chair for me, and settled himself on the opposite chair, as he opened the lids of the casserole he was amazed, "ye sb tumne banaya?" The question didn't amaze me though cause I have not cooked food since I gained my consciousness. I nodded with excitement as well as nervousness. I didn't know his favourite dish so I asked maa about it.

"Khana banana aata hai tumhe?"

"Pata nahi. Abhi pata chal jayega" as usual he was about to serve but I halted him.

"Me karungi aaj" serving both of us I waited for him to take the first bite and tell me about it.

"Kaisa hai?"

"Bohot accha hai" he exclaimed his voice filled with genuine delight. I beamed with pride, a sense of accomplishment "really?" My voice barely a whisper.

Abir nodded enthusiastically, taking another bite "ye sb tumne kaise banaya?"

"Maa ne help ki"

"Good. Lekin khana sach me bohot accha bana hai. Tum khao na"

"Ha" as I took the bite the food was good but not as he makes. I don't know why he appreciates this so much.

As we continued our dinner, the conversation flowed easily as he first apologized for being late and then continued telling me about his day. It feels good to hear about his day as I feel I am getting to know him more through this.

As we ate he couldn't help but steal glances of me, each time I caught him he would look away smiling. I felt a flutter in my chest as I realised he is still attracted to me even though everything I had been through.

As we finished our dinner Abir reached across the table taking my hand in his "Thank you for the dinner, Mish" he said as his eyes shined with appreciation. "It was amazing"

I felt a sense of happiness, "I am glad you liked it" his eyes locked into mine, electricity ran through my body. "I like everything about you, Mish" he whispered his voice filled with emotions. My heart skipped a beat as I looked at him and felt like I was falling in love with him all over again.

"Itna accha setup hai photo to banta hai!" He said breaking the moment as I nodded to him. Grabbing his phone he took a few selfies of us and then clicked some pictures of mine and the setup as well.

"Uhmmm dessert! Me abhi lekar aati hu" that was whole main point of this setup. How can I forget it? I did forget two years of my life am I going to keep doing it.

"Ruko. Me lekar aata hu. Tum baitho"

"Nahi. Me jaa rahi hu na!" His caring mode is activated now,

"Thik hai me saath to aata hu" he stood up from his chair,

"Rehne do"

"Lekin Mish Ghar me koi nahi hai. Me aata hu na saath me tumhare"

"Look at me. Me apne pairo pr khadi hu na. Kahi plaster nazar aa raha hai?" He won't leave me alone for a second

"Nahi. I know ki tum thik ho me bs saath me aana chahta
hu"

"Me do minute me jakar lekar aati hu please"

"Me ek minute me lekar aata hu"

"Sunoge nahi na?"

"Nahi"

"Baitho chup chap waha" I said it more firmly and strictly trying to assert dominance.

Abir raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Tum itni strict ho gayi hain," he teased, his voice low and husky.

I glared at him, trying to maintain my firm tone. "Baitho, Abir. Me jakar lekar aati hu."

Abir chuckled and shook his head, but eventually sat back down, his eyes never leaving mine. "Thik hai, Mish. Jao, lekar aao. Me yahi baitha hoon."

I turned to leave, feeling a sense of triumph at having asserted my independence. But as I reached the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my chest. Abir's caring nature and playful teasing had always been a weakness for me.

As I retrieved the dessert from the kitchen, I couldn't help but wonder what other surprises the night had in store for me. He keeps going away from me whenever I tried to move closer to him, tonight I am determined to openly tell him my feelings and atleast get a kiss.

As I reached the door I found him standing there, his over caring and over protective nature hasn't left him.

"Kya hai dessert me?" He questioned as he sat back on his chair

"Nothing special. ice cream"

"Mujhe ice cream pasand hai"

Grabbing the bowl I walked to him and settled myself on his lap, Abir's eyes widened in surprise, but he didn't push me away. Instead, he wrapped his arms around me, holding me close. "Mish, ye kya kr rahi ho?" he asked, his voice low and husky.

I looked up at him, my heart pounding in my chest. "I'm just trying to get comfortable," I replied, trying to sound nonchalant despite the butterflies in my stomach.

Abir raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Comfortable?" he repeated, his voice dripping with skepticism.

I nodded, trying to maintain my composure. "Yeah, comfortable," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

Abir's eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment, we just stared at each other, the tension between us palpable.

I fed him the first bite of the ice cream,

"Vanilla?"

"Ha kyu accha nahi laga?"

"Nahi. accha hai"

As I was about to feed him another bite he turned the spoon towards me making me eat it.

"Aaj me tumhe khilaungi"

"Accha!"

"Hmm" feeding him another bite I continued my story "me dessert me kuch banane ka soch rahi thi lekin mujhe thoda weak feel hua..."

"Tum thik ho? Maine kitni baar kaha hai tum kuch kaam mat kiya karo house helps hai na wo bana dete. Bahar se order kar leti.. doctor ke pass jaana hai? Ab kuch bologi bhi"

I rolled my eyes laughing at his antics "main theek hu Abir. Thodi si weakness thi. Chali gayi"

"Pakka?"

"Ha"

"Anjali ko phone Karu?" He asked referring to my doctor who treated me for so long. She is his friend too.

"Nahi" I fed him ice cream to distract him, he didn't press further over the topic. I looked into his eyes gathering up the courage "Mujhe tum se kuch kehna hai"

His eyes sparkled with curiosity, "main sun raha hu"

As I fed him the ice cream, our eyes locked onto each other's. I took a deep breath, my heart pounding in my chest. "Abir, I love you," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper.

Abir's eyes widened in surprise, but then a soft smile spread across his face. He took another bite of the ice cream, his eyes never leaving mine. "Main bhi tumse pyaar karta hoon, Mish, I too love you" he replied, his voice filled with emotion.

I felt my heart skip a beat as I heard his words. Abir smiled at me, his eyes shining with happiness. I waited for him to make a move to kiss me but he didn't he just fed me the ice cream.

"Mujhe pehle ka kuch yaad nahi hai humare saath bitaye hue pal, humare shaadi kuch bhi nahi. Lekin mujhe pata hai wo sb bhi bohot khoobsurat hoga.."

his grip over me tightened as if he got reminded of all those moments together.

"Isme tumhari galti nahi hai Mish wo to uss accident ki..." I hushed him by keeping a finger over his lips

"Aaj sirf me bolungi" I requested and he obliged.

"Jaisa tum kehte ho na ki restart kar lenge. Maine socha uss pr bohot so I came to a conclusion ki Hum saath milkar aur nayi khoobsurat yaadein banayenge jo hopefully mujhe yaad rahe. Me har pal tumhare saath jeena chahti hu. To kya tum mere saath ye nayi shuruwat karne ke liye tyaar ho?"

His eyes sparkled with delight as he heard my words, he nodded enthusiastically a wide smile covered his face "of course Mish. Me tumhare saath apni puri zindagi bitane ke liye tyaar hu." His grip firm over my waist, he pulled me closer to him and pecked my cheek. Not able to control the rush the feelings I embraced him.

"Accha hua tumne keh diya me to soch raha tha ki tum to mujh se nafrat karti ho," he Joked taking me back to earlier days when I didn't let him touch me, I didn't trust him at all.

I laughed at those memories, I was really a paranoid.

"Unn dino tum bohot annoying the"

"Tum kya kam thi? Seriously hospital me tumne dusre doctor se cross check karaya ki hum jo medication de rahe hai wo sahi hai ya nahi"

"Tb mujhe nahi pata tha ki kis pr bharosa karna hai aur kis pr nahi lekin ab pata hai" he fed me another bite

"Kya?"

"Ki agar iss duniya me kisi pr aankhen band karke bharosa kar sakti hu to wo tum ho."

"Same with me. I trust you with my life"

Our eyes locked in not even blinking just staring at each other with love.

I leaned in, my heart racing with anticipation. Abir's eyes locked onto mine, and he leaned in too, our lips mere centimeters apart. I could feel the warmth of his breath on my skin, and my lips tingled with excitement.

But just as our lips were about to touch, Abir suddenly pulled back. He stood up, pulling me up with him, and smiled awkwardly. "We should clear the dishes first," he said, his voice a little too casual.

I felt confused and disappointed. "Abir, what's wrong?" I asked, trying to keep my tone light.

Abir avoided my gaze, focusing on gathering the dishes instead. "Kuch nahi Mishti. Ye sb saaf kar lete hai phele"

I raised an eyebrow, feeling a little frustrated. "Abir, seriously? Tumhe abhi ye saaf karna hai" I teased, trying to lighten the mood.

But Abir just chuckled and continued clearing the table. I followed him to the kitchen, feeling a little puzzled. Why was he avoiding intimacy all of a sudden?

As we stood at the sink, washing the dishes in uncomfortable silence, I couldn't help but sneak glances at Abir. He seemed lost in thought, his eyes distant and preoccupied.

I nudged him playfully with my elbow. "Abir sb thik hai? Tum kahi mujhe... Avoid to nahi kr rahe?" I asked, trying to keep my tone casual.

Abir's eyes snapped back to mine, and he smiled reassuringly. "Bilkul nahi, Mish. Tum aisa soch bhi kaise sakti ho?"

I shrugged, feeling a little uncertain. " Pata nahi tum bss thode...distracted ho"

Abir's smile faltered for a moment, and he looked away, focusing on washing the dishes again. "I'm fine, Mish thoda thak gaya hu bs"

I raised an eyebrow, cynical "thak gaye hk? Just four hours of office aur tum thak gaye yu to raat bhar kaam karte rehte ho"

He kept down the dish he was washing, "Mish I don't want to rush things.. let's ..take it slow"

"Aur kitna slow Abir? 8 mahine ho gaya mujhe hosh aaye. Phir bhi slow" he locked his eyes with mine, as he held my hands in his. The wetness of his hands transferring to mine,

"Mish the doctor said we should wait for a few more weeks to continue our normal life. Just to be safe"

I felt a wave of incredulity, I got out of his hold "A few more weeks? Abir. I am totally fine don't you see. I am myself ready for it tum jis doctor ki baat karte ho na usne khud 3 hafte pehle kaha hai ki I am physically fine"

"You feel that way Mish. But your body doesn't, it still needs time to heal, time to normalise" his soft tone didn't change making me think about my own words and tone.

He placed a kiss over my forehead, stacked the last dish and moved towards our bedroom. I followed him my eyes narrowing at him "Abir, stop avoiding me and my questions*

As he walked into our bedroom he flipped on the light switch and turned to face me, "mujhe bss tumhari fikar hai. Aur waise bhi doctor ne..."

I cut him off my voice rising "doctor ne ye kaha doctor ne wo kaha. Me koi kamzor gudiya nahi hu jisse tum touch karoge aur wo Tut jayegi"

For a moment he stared at me, " Mish maine tumhari itni saari baatein maani hai. Tum meri ek baat maan lo please"

I didn't had anything to say to the person who maintained the normal tone while mine just went up like anything. He doesn't wants to listen to me. He is right, maybe I could agree to his request for once. So I just nodded in a yes my mind still not ready to buy it.

He walked the sofa arranging his blanket, "ye tum kya kar rahe ho?" I kept my tone light not wanting to hurt him more.

"Bed laga raha hu. Sona to yahi hai mujhe" he uttered with a chuckle as he turned that sofa into a bed for himself.

I just couldn't control the anger in me, I strode over the sofa, picked up the blanket only to throw it on the floor. "Nahi"

His eyes widened in suprise "Mish? Ye kya tarika hai?"
I took a deep breath trying to calm myself down.

"Mere saath bed pr soiye na, matlab uss tarike se nahi. Bss mere saath, mere pass, normal couple ki tarah"

His expressions softened as he moved closer to me "mujhe nahi lagta ki ye accha idea hai hum doctor..."

I cut him off because of the frustration "Phirse doctor. I just want to sleep next to you, hold you, feel you next to me. Is that too much to ask for?"

As I glanced at him I could see the conflict there but then he shook his head his expressions firm "sorry. Me ye risk nahi le sakta"

"Pr kyu?"

"Me tumhe ek baar kho chuka hu. Ab me chote se chota risk bhi nahi le sakta"

A stinging sensation in my eyes is felt as tears pricked my eyes, I turned away from him trying to maintain the compose myself. "Thik hai so jao sofe pr. See if I care"

Changing my clothes I switched off the lights and laid on the bed, staring at the ceiling thinking about the answers that Abir gave me. It didn't feel like they were 100 percent true there is something else too.

Did he lose interest in me?

Does he have an affair?

What's it?

As I thought back to our conversation trying to analyse every word, every gesture, his expressions, his tone, his body language everything suggested that he was truthful. But I can get off the feeling that there's something more he is hiding from me.

I heard his movements but didn't bother to ask him, he walked upto my side of the bed and switched on the lights I still didn't say anything to him. Bending a little over the side table he was finding something. What is he doing?

As he fetched out the medicine box of mine I realised I haven't had the after dinner medicines. I sat up quietly and ate the medicines he gave me without creating any scene.

"Arey waah! Aaj koi nakhre nahi" he said looking at me stunned, I ignored him and his comment,

"Phir to hume roz ladna chahiye, hai na" he tried to continue but I just gave him a 'seriously' look.

He chuckled and shook his head "sorry no more jokes"

Abir sat down beside me on the bed, his presence making me feel a mix of emotions. I didn't look at him, instead keeping my gaze fixed on my legs

Abir didn't say anything, he just sat there beside me, his eyes fixed on me. I could feel his gaze, but I didn't meet it. I just sat there, trying to process my thoughts and emotions.

The silence between us was palpable, but Abir didn't seem to mind. He just sat there, his presence comforting and reassuring. After a few moments, he gently placed his hand on mine, his touch sending a spark of electricity through my body.

I didn't pull my hand away, instead letting it rest beneath his. Abir's touch was warm and comforting, and for a moment, I forgot about all my doubts and fears.

"Mish kya baat hai? Tum pareshan lag rahi ho" he enquired tenderly.

"Nahi. Kuch nahi"

"Kuch to hai aur wo sirf ye nahi hai ki maine pass aane se mana kar diya"

"Tumhe Aisa kyu lagta hai"

"I know you. Tumhare iss dimag me pakka kuch aur chal raha hai"

"Kuch bhi"

"To tum nahi bataogi?"

"Nahi"

"Chalo tumhare sawalon ke jawab me hi de deta hu"

"Konse?"

"Mera kahi koi affair nahi hai. Me sirf tumse pyaar karta hu.. ha matlab baaki gharwalo se bhi karta hu but waise wala nahi"

His words laced with humour but the point was he knew exactly what I was thinking. He knows me so well.

"Accha phir kaisa pyaar karte ho tum mujhse"

"Like a man loves a woman" he answered

His response was simple, yet it sent shivers down my spine. I looked at him, my eyes locking onto his, and I saw the intensity and passion burning within them.

"Abir," I whispered,

He leaned in closer, his face inches from mine. "Haan, Mish?" he replied, his voice low and husky.

I felt my heart racing, my pulse pounding in my veins. I was torn between my desire for him and my frustration at being kept at arm's length.

But as I looked into his eyes, I saw the love and adoration shining within them, and my heart melted.

The way he knows me in and out, my fears, my thoughts, my doubts every single thing. It was as if he had a map of my soul, and he knew exactly which buttons to press to make me feel seen and heard. His gaze was like a warm caress, enveloping me in a sense of safety and understanding. It was as if he held a mirror to my soul, reflecting back every hidden fear, every secret thought, and every deep-seated doubt. And yet, instead of judgment or criticism, his eyes shone with a love and acceptance that was nothing short of breathtaking.

"Abir" I breathed

"Haan, Mish!" He repeated calmly.

"Itna pyaar kyu karte ho mujhse?" His gaze softened as he smiled gently wrappin his hand around my mine.

"Kyuki tum meri jaan ho Mish, mere wajood ki wajah ho. Meri har khushi, har gham har khwahish ka hissa ho" he answered honestly. Damn that was true and he didn't even exaggerate it.

I felt my heart flutter in my chest as I listened to his words. I looked at him, really looked at him, and saw the sincerity in his eyes. He wasn't just saying words, he truly meant them. And that realization was like a punch to the gut, leaving me breathless and wanting more. "Abir," I whispered, my voice barely audible. He leaned in closer, his eyes locked onto mine. "Haan, Mish?" he replied, his voice low.

"Sach keh rahe ho?"

"Koi Shaq?"

I was quick to nod sideways, he held me close embracing me I felt myself melting into him, my body molding into him as if two pieces of puzzle meant to fit together.

"Abir"

"Haan Mish"

"I am sorry" I muttered the words tumbling out of my mouth as a confession.

"Kyu?" He questioned confused as he moved away to meet his eyes with mine.

"Mujhe aisa nahi sochna chahiye tha, tum mere liye itna karte ho. Tum bss meri care kar rahe the aur me tum se bewajah ladne me busy thi"

"Ho gaya?"

"Haan"

"Tum mujhse lad sakti ho, gussa kar sakti hu tumhare jo dil me aaye wo tum kar sakti ho mere saath uske liye tumhe sorry feel karne ki zaroorat nahi hai"

I embraced him back, he has always been so understanding, so patient he never judged me, criticised me. He just loved me unconditionally.

"Waise tumhare information ke liye affair karne ke liye dusri ladki ko patana padega usme bohot waqt lagta hai" he said with a snort leaving his mouth.

"Aur tumhe to mujh se fursat hi nahi milti hai na" I teased him.

"Aur nahi to kya. Tum ho hi itni interesting"

We sat there in a comfortable silence, but he had to break it

"Pata hai mujhe darr lagta hai khud se ki kahi meri wajah se tumhe hurt na ho"

"Me samjhi nahi"

"Agar hum ek bed pr soyenge to shayad me tumhe jyada zor se cuddle kr lu, ya phir mera haath pair tumhari injuries pr lag jaye, ya phir neend me mujh se kuch jayega. Tumne already bohot dard saha hai"

"Abir aisa kuch nahi hai, tum bohot jyada soch rahe ho"

"Nahi Mish. I keep thinking about all the ways I could accidentally hurt you" he said his eyes furrowed with worry.

"Abir tum mera bohot dhyaan rakhte ho upar se ye injuries bhi thik ho gayi hai. Doctor ne kaha hai na ki me physically fit hu wo bhi 3 hafte pehle. You behave delicately with me"

"Ha. Pr shaayad neend me agar mera meri body pr control nahi raha toh"

"Me wahi keh rahi hu injuries hoti to dard hota na. Sb thik ho gaya hai"

"I know ki tumhari injuries 90 percent thik hogayi hai lekin bache hue 10 percent hai na. Utna thik hone do phir I promise ki hum dono ke beech me kuch nahi aayega"

His words felt trustworthy so I just nodded at him.

"Chalo so jao abhi bohot raat hogayi hai"

As I laid there he covered me with the blanket, switched off the lights and moved to his sofa to sleep. I watched him settle into the sofa, a mix of emotions swirling inside me. His concern for my well-being was touching, but a part of me felt a pang of sadness that he was sacrificing his own comfort for my sake. I wanted to tell him to come back to bed, that I would be fine, but his words had been laced with a worry that I couldn't ignore. So I lay there, listening to the sound of his gentle breathing, feeling grateful for his love and care.

Abir P.O.V

I sat behind my desk, sipping on a cup of lukewarm coffee, my eyes fixed on the clock on the wall. Anjali and Aarav were running late, but that was nothing new. I have grown accustomed to their tardiness over the years.

As I waited, my mind began to wander back to the conversation Mish and I had last night. Her injuries were still a concern for me, and I couldn't shake off the feeling that I might accidentally hurt her. But she had reassured me, her words laced with a conviction that I couldn't help but trust.

I was lost in thought when I heard a knock on the door. "Come in," I called out, looking up to see Anjali and Aarav walking in, apologetic smiles on their faces. "Sorry we're late, Abir," Anjali said, plopping down in one of the chairs in front of my desk. "Traffic was a nightmare."

I leaned back in my chair, a smile spreading across my face as I waited for the coffee to arrive. "I've been thinking a lot about Mish and me," I said, my eyes locking onto Anjali's. "And I wanted to talk to you about it."

Anjali's eyebrows shot up, curiosity etched on her face. "What about you and Mishti?" she asked, her voice low and intrigued.

I took a deep breath, collecting my thoughts before speaking. "I just feel like...I don't know, like I'm walking on eggshells around her. I'm constantly worried that I'll hurt her, or trigger some old memory that will cause her pain."

Aarav, who had been quietly observing the conversation, spoke up. "You're talking about her past, aren't you?" he asked, his voice gentle.

I nodded, feeling a sense of relief that they understood what I was getting at. The pune came in with tow cups of coffee for them and left.

"Pehle ye batao ki tumne Mish ko ye kyu bataya ki wo physically fine hai?" I question looking at Anjali.

"Ab wo hai physically fine to yahi kahungi na usse" she replied mixing her coffee.

I leaned in, my voice taking on a more serious tone. "To be honest, guys, I'm not ready for that level of intimacy with Mish yet. I know wo mere kareeb aana chahti hai but I'm just not there yet."

Aarav let out a low chuckle. "Abir, Abir, Abir...you're killing me, man. You're telling me that the beautiful Mishti is throwing herself at you, and you're pushing her away?"

I shot Aarav a wry look. "It's not like that, Aarav. This is serious. Mish has been through a lot, and I don't want to rush into anything that might hurt her."

Aarav's eyes widened in surprise, and he looked at me with a confused expression. "Wait, what? You and Mishti haven't...? I mean, I just assumed that you two had been...close, for months now."

I shook my head, feeling a sense of embarrassment. "No, Aarav, we haven't. I know it's hard to believe, but we've been taking things slow. We've been focusing on her recovery and getting to know each other again."

Aarav's expression turned incredulous. "But...but I thought you two were...you know, intimate. I mean, you've been living together for months."

I chuckled, feeling a sense of amusement. "Aarav, just because we're living together doesn't mean we're having sex you know. Building a connection and trust is more important than a physical."

I couldn't help but laugh at Aarav's expression. "Aarav, it's not that exciting. I sleep on the sofa, and Mish sleeps on the bed We've keept things platonic."

Aarav's eyes widened even further, and he burst out laughing. "You sleep on the sofa? Oh man, Abir, you're a saint! I wouldn't have been able to resist her for so long."

I chuckled, feeling a sense of amusement. "Well, it's not that hard when you're trying to help someone recover from a traumatic experience. Besides, I care about her and I want to do what's best for her."

Aarav wiped tears from his eyes, still chuckling. "I'm sorry, Abir. I just can't believe you've been sleeping on the sofa for months. You're a better man than I am."

Anjali, who had been quietly observing the conversation, spoke up. "Abir, I think you're being wise. Mish does need time and space to heal. But at the same time, you can't just push her away without explaining why."

I nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Anjali for understanding my concerns. "You're right, I did have a talk with her"

I looked down, my eyes avoiding my friends' gazes. " it's not just about Mish's past or her healing process. It's about...us. She doesn't belong to me. Mishti meri nahi hai aur na hi mera uss pr koi haq hai" It hurt me to accept this bitter truth but it's truth afterall

Aarav's expression turned serious, and he leaned forward. "Abir, kya bakwas kar raha hai. Tu mishti se pyaar karta hai aur mishti tujh se aur kya chahiye?"

I took a deep breath, trying to articulate the thoughts that had been swirling in my head. "Lekin wo abhi bhi shaadi shuda hai. Uska abhi bhi ek pati hai. Aur jb tk ye badal nahi jata mujhe nahi lagta ki mera Mish pr koi bhi haq hai"

Anjali's eyes were filled with understanding, and she nodded slowly. While Aarav just sat there with an expression 'what an idiot'.

"Badal chuka hai Abir. Humne abandonment ke basis pr divorce file Kiya hai. Aur wo accept bhi hua hai bhul gaye? Aur pati tha" Aarav blurted out of frustration. Anjali's eyes widened in surprise "Ye sb kab hua?"

"Kuch mahino pehle" aarav replied meekly to her realising that he spilled the beans he shouldn't have.

Her gaze turned to me, "Mishti ko pata hai?"

I shook my head, "nahi. Usse waise bhi kuch yaad nahi hai"

"Wahi to. Phir problem kya hai. Ab to wo shaadi shuda bhi nahi hai aur pati bhi nahi hai" Aarav remarked.

"Aarav, problem ye hai ki me te rishta jhoot se shuru nahi karna chahta. Mish aur mere beech sab clear hona chahiye. Rishte sacchai aur bharose pr bante hai, secrets aur dhoke se nahi" I tried to make him understand.

"Anjali yaar isse samjhao ki ye jo bol raha hai wo sunne me accha hai practically nahi." he said looking at Anjali who was confused on whose side to take.

"Aarav sun to.." I attempted to make him understand,

"Aur rishta shuru karne ki baat kar rahe ho Abir. Rishta ban chuka hai, ab usse nibhane ki socho na ki todne ki" he explained. making think over his words. Somewhere he is right to.

"Mujhe ye phir bhi galat lagta hai" I uttered knowing Aarav would burst. Visibly he took a deep breath before questioning "thik hai phir tere hisab se sahi kya hai?"

"Me mish ko uske past ke baare me batau humne jitne jhoot bole hai wo clear kr du aur phir wo mujhe chune" as I completed he face palmed himself.

"Anjali zara isse yaad to dila ki tere senior doctors ne kya kaha tha mishti ki yaadon ke baare me" Aarav mockingly uttered,

"Hume mishti ko uske past se dur rakhna hai. Past ki koi chiz yaad dilane ki koshish nahi karni. It could affect her brain aur wo wapas coma me jaa sakti hai" she copied her senior doctors words which he told all of us.

"To Abir kya tu Mishti aur khud ko maarna chahta hai?" He questioned bitterly. I felt uncertain and unsure about what to do.

Anjali's expression turned stern as she scolded Aarav, "akal bech kr aaye ho yaha? Itni insensitive baate kaise kar sakte ho"

His expressions didn't change as he replied "Insensitive nahi hai ye. Ye sach hai, agar Abir ne apne honesty ke chakkar me aakar Mishti ko sach bata diya aur bhagwan na kare wo coma me chali gayi to kya alag hoga? Wo waha uss bed pr ek zinda lash ki tarah padi rahegi aur ye harishchandr ki aulad mishti ke baju me jaan hokar bhi bejaan baitha rahega. Accha hai tumne apni inhe aakhon se roz ye scene teen mahine dekha hai"

Anjali didn't had a answer to his questions nor did I. Cause he was right I couldn't tell the truth to Mish not even try.

"Listen tu mishti se jhoot nahi bol raha to usse bacha raha hai. Usse waqt chahiye apni zindagi sawarne ke liye aur tu usse wo de raha hai. Aur ye dhoka nahi hai compassion hai" he cleared for me.

"Compassion ka hindi word nahi mila" he joked trying to lighten up the mood and succeed too.

"Aarav sahi keh raha hai. Tum usse jhoot isiliye to nahi keh rahe na tumhe usse manipulate ya control karna hai. Ye sb isiliye hai ki wo apne traumatic past se dur rahe" Anjali too went on his side, I didn't expect that.

Out of the blue my fears surfaced I felt a lump form in my throat as I voiced my deepest fear. "What if she remembers everything, Aarav? What if she recalls her past, her husband, her entire life before me? She'll leave me, Aarav. She'll walk away, and I won't be able to survive that."

Aarav's expression turned somber, and he placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Abir, you're assuming the worst-case scenario. What if she remembers, and she still chooses to stay with you? What if her feelings for you are stronger than her past?"

I shook my head, feeling a sense of desperation creeping in. "I don't know, Aarav. I just know that I've fallen deeply in love with her, and the thought of losing her is unbearable."

Anjali's expression turned thoughtful, and she leaned forward. "Abir, I want to tell you something. In cases like Mish's, where the patient has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it's actually quite rare for them to regain their memories."

I looked at her, a glimmer of hope rising up in my chest. "Really?"

Anjali nodded. "Yes. The human brain is a complex and mysterious thing, and sometimes, traumatic events can cause permanent damage to the memory centers. It's possible that Mish may never remember her past."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me, followed by a pang of guilt. Was I really hoping that Mish would never remember her past, just so I could keep her in my life?

Aarav grinned mischievously. "You know, Abir, ek simple solution hai iss sab ke liye Why don't you just marry her?"

I rolled my eyes, laughing. "Aarav, you're not helping."

But to my surprise, Anjali's expression turned serious. "Actually, that's not a bad idea," she said, a thoughtful look on her face.

I raised an eyebrow. "Anjali, tu kis baare me baat kar rahi hai?"

Anjali's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Socho Abir. If you marry Mish, you'll be giving her a sense of security and stability. You'll be showing her that you're committed to her, no matter what."

Aarav chuckled. "Anjali, wedding planner vagera ho kya?"

Anjali ignored him, her mind already racing with plans. "We could have a small, intimate ceremony. Just close friends and family. And then we could..."

I held up my hands, laughing. "Whoa, Anjali, slow down. Apne ghode band ke rakho."

"Abir, ghode uske pass nahi hai. Humare pass hai" he commented with a double meaning. We three just burst out laughing totally forgetting the problem.

But Anjali was undeterred. She pulled out her phone and started typing away, a determined look on her face. "I'm making a list of all the things we need to do to plan the wedding. We'll need to book a venue, choose a caterer, decide on decorations..."

I felt my eyes widening in horror as Anjali continued to rattle off her plans. "Anjali, stop. Just stop. Me mish se shaadi sirf isiliye to nahi karunga kyuki tumhe wo accha idea lagta hai"

But Anjali just smiled sweetly at me. "Oh, Abir. You're just not thinking clearly. This is the perfect solution. Trust me, I know what I'm doing."

I threw up my hands in frustration. "Anjali, you're impossible. Fine. Jo karna hai Karo phir mt kehna ki maine bataya nahi"

Aarav's expression turned serious, and he leaned forward, his eyes locked on mine. "Abir, tujhe Mishti se shaadi nahi karni? I mean, thoda iss baare me soch. Tu usse pyaar karta uski fikar karta hai aur wo bhi tujhse pyaar karti hai"

I shook my head, feeling a sense of unease. "Aarav, it's not simple. Kitni saari complications. Her past, her husband...it's all so messy."

Aarav's expression turned persuasive. "Abir, come on. Tu future ke baare me soch na, tu sirf past ke baare me soche jaa raha wo ho gaya. Mishti is free to make her own choices now, and if she chooses to marry you, then that's what matters."

He leaned back in his chair, a confident smile spreading across his face. "Besides, Abir, you know as well as I do that you're perfect for each other. You balance each other out. You make each other happy. So why not take the leap and make it official?"

I took a deep breath, weighing my options carefully. Aarav's words had struck a chord within me. I did love Mish, and the thought of spending the rest of my life with her was tantalizing.

I looked at Aarav and Anjali, seeing the enthusiasm and support in their eyes. They believed in me and Mish, and they thought we could make it work.

I thought about Mish, about her bright smile and her infectious laugh. I thought about the way she made me feel, like I was home.

Slowly, I nodded my head. "Okay," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll do it. I'll marry her."

Aarav let out a whoop of excitement, pumping his fist in the air. Anjali grinned, clapping her hands together in delight.

I couldn't help but smile, feeling a sense of excitement and trepidation. I was really doing this. I was going to marry Mish.

"Pr me usse bataunga kaise ki Mish hum shaadi kar rahe hai. Aisa kuch pehle kabhi nahi kiya hai maine!" I questioned with genuine concerns.

"Arey itna tension Mt lo mast sa ek candle light dinner ka setup karo usse kaho mish I love you will you marry me. Simple" Anjali advised.

"Will you marry me chod kr kal raat baaki sb ho gaya" I admitted honestly.

"Are you serious? Phir ye conversation kar hi kyu rahe hai hum! Just go and kiss her" she burst out teasing me.

"Oo mere maha rathiyo" Aarav called out both of us, we looked at him.

"Shaadi ki liye propose kar rahe ho. Humne usse kaha hai ki uski aur Abir ki shaadi ho chuki hai. Hum yaha tak gaye hai ki humne usse edited photos bhi dikhaye hai" his expressions turned serious doubt lacing his voice.

Anjali looked at me with concern, "ye baat to hum bhul gaye"

I snapped my fingers an idea suddenly striking me "Hum Mish se kahenge ki humari wedding anniversary aa rahi hai aur kyuki wo sb bhul gayi to kyu na dubara shaadi kar le"

Aarav's eyes lit up with excitement "that's a good idea. Mere saath rehkar seekh rahe ho"

"Maa aur papa! Un se to maine kaha tha ki meri aur Mishti ki shaadi ho chuki hai" I stressed over the new problem. Of course I said that cause they are Indian parents won't let a woman stay along with their son unless married.

"Unhe bhi same chipka dena" Aarav just dismissed my problem. We sat there discussing more about the wedding. Anjali called a priest for knowing the dates and he suggested a date after three weeks.

We three sat there planning everything cause we didn't had much time now, even though we would be keeping the wedding small like really small just my family, very close relatives and friends.

Mishti P.O.V

I was busy chopping vegetables for the evening's meal, while my mother-in-law, Rajshri, was expertly kneading dough for the rotis. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting aromas of cooking food and the sound of sizzling spices.

Maa looked up at me with a glint in her eyes "Hmm to kal Ghar me koi nahi tha sirf tum dono the"

I felt my face heat up as I realised where she was going with this "Maa kuch nahi hua" I said trying to brush it off.

She Chuckled as she playfully nudged me with her shoulder "Me kaha kuch keh rahi hu. Me to keh rahi hu ki kal tum dono ke pass bohot saara time tha" her eyes sparkling with amusement.

My face grew more hotter as I tried to focus on chopping the vegetables but her teasing had sent to mind to last night. It was way too beautiful, the evening was memorable.

"Kal jo itna pareshan kiya mujhe phone karke recipe ke liye. Khaana khaya bhi ya nahi?" Maa's question brought me back from last evening.

"Haa. Aapko pareshan karna worth it tha. Abir ko sb accha laga. Usne kuch baaki nahi chodha" I answered honestly beaming in happiness.

"Sirf khaana khaya ya aur bhi kuch kiya?" She enquired her voice dripping with tease.

"Maine accha khasa candle light setup banaya tha. Ruko me aapko photo dikhati hu" fetching for my phone I showed her the pic of the setup.

"Arey ye to bohot Accha kiya tha tumne. Abir ko to pasand aaya hoga" she questioned

"Bohot. Uske chehre ki smile dekhni chahiye thi aapko. Haayee itni acchi lag rahi thi ki.." I got reminded of his smile.

I was cut off my maa's cough, of course a fake one to stop me from spilling my fantasies with her son. I blushed realising I got carried away with the sexiest man's smile.

I wrapped my arms around her giving her a hug. "Maa, you're so cute! I love you!" I exclaimed, feeling a surge of affection for my mother-in-law.

Her face lit up with a bright smile as she hugged me back. "I love you too Mishti"

We stood there for a moment, embracing each other warmly. I felt grateful for her love and support, and I knew that I was lucky to have her as my mother-in-law.

As I reached for another vegetable, her eyes landed on an ice cream tub on the counter. Her eyebrows rose in surprise, and she asked, "Mishti, yeh vanilla ice cream ka tub yahaan kaise aaya?"

I smiled, remembering the previous night's candlelight dinner. "Maine order Kiya tha. Kal dinner ke baad maine aur Abir ne khai"

Her expression turned puzzled, and she asked, "Toh Abir ne bhi yeh ice cream khai?"

I nodded, "Haan, Maa, hum dono ne saath mein khayi thi."

Her frown deepened, and she said, "Mishti, Abir ko vanilla flavor bilkul pasand nahi hai. Woh toh isse nafrat karta hai."

I was taken aback, feeling a sense of confusion. "Kya? Par Abir ne toh mujhe kaha tha ki ice cream acchi hai"

She shook her head, a knowing glint in her eye. "Nahi, Mishti, Abir ne bachpan se hi vanilla ice cream pasand nahi thi. Isliye main kabhi bhi ghar par vanilla flavour ka kuch kharidti bhi nahi hu"

I felt confusion and curiosity. I tried to clarify "maa maine khud usse khilaye thi ye ice cream"

Maa's face lit up with a warm smile as she said, "Ohh to tumne khilayi thi, isiliye. Barabar hai! Tum khilaogi to wo kuch bhi kha lega"

Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she emphasized the extent of Abir's love for me. It was as if she was saying that Abir's love for me was so strong that he would willingly eat something he disliked, just to make me happy.

As I basked in the warmth of Maa's words, guilt suddenly rose up in me. I felt a twinge of regret as I realized that I didn't know Abir's likes and dislikes as well as I should. Despite being his wife, I had never taken the time to learn about his preferences, his tastes, and his habits.

The fact that Abir had eaten the vanilla ice cream despite not liking it, just to make me happy, made me feel even more guilty. I thought to myself, "How could I not know something as simple as his favorite ice cream flavor?" It was a small thing, but it spoke volumes about how much I still had to learn about my husband.

I looked down, feeling a mix of emotions swirling inside me. I was happy to know that Abir loved me so much, but at the same time, I was guilty for not knowing him better.

"Aahh" the sharp pain on my finger distracted me. I got cut from the knife I was chopping vegetables with. Concerned maa put a bandage over it and sent me back to my bedroom.

As I entered the bedroom I sat down on the bed, staring blankly at a wall as I tried to process my emotions. The pain in my finger was nothing compared to the turmoil inside me.

I buried my face in my hands, feeling tears forming in my eyes

Am I really worth Abir's love? Am I enough to make him happy?

It felt like I was failing in this relationship, I am not giving Abir the love and attention he deserves. I am lagging behind in our relationship while he is already on the peak of his love for me.

I took a deep breath trying to calm down my racing thoughts. I knew I had to do better. I have to put more efforts, I have to be present in our relationship and more attentive towards Abir.

As the day passed, Abir came back from office he seemed happy.

"Aaj itne khush? Kal to bohot thak gaye the" I taunted him.

"Maar lo taane pr me aaj bohot khush hu"

I looked at Abir with curiosity, my eyes narrowing slightly. "Kya hai? Tum itne khush kyun ho?"

Abir's smile grew wider, and he leaned in, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Hai ki kuch jo mere pass aane wala hai, uska maine bahut saal intezaar kiya hai."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Kya? Batao na."

Abir chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Arre, yeh toh ek surprise hai. Tumhein intezaar karna hoga."

I pouted, feeling a bit frustrated. "Abir, tum mujhe paagal kar rahe ho. Batao na, kya hai?"

Abir just laughed, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Tumhein sabar karna hoga, Mish. Sabar ka fal meetha hota hai."

I continued to pester Abir, trying to get him to spill the beans. "Abir, please tell me! I'm dying to know. Is it something big? Something important?"

Abir just chuckled and shook his head, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Mish tumhein sabar karna hoga. Main tumhein abhi kuch nahin bata sakta"

I pouted, feeling frustrated. "Abir, me tumhari biwi hoon. Mujhe tumhare raaz maloom hone chahiye!"

His expressions changed he looked at me with a soft and gentle smile, his eyes seemed to sparkle with happiness as he took a step closer to me.

I stepped backward, my eyes locked on Abir's, as he moved closer to me. My heart was racing, and I could feel the air thickening with tension. I didn't know what Abir was going to do, but I couldn't help but feel drawn to him.

As I stepped back, my back hit the wall, and I felt a jolt of surprise. Abir's eyes never left mine, and he kept moving closer, his movements slow and deliberate.

I felt trapped, but not in a scary way. It was more like I was trapped in Abir's gaze, unable to look away. My heart was pounding, and I could feel my pulse racing in my neck.

Abir's face was inches from mine, and I could feel his warm breath on my skin. I was frozen in place, unsure of what to do next.

He spoke in a voice that has capabilities to send shiver down my spine "Kal 7 baje hum date pr jaa rahe hai, samjhi!" It was more of a warning than a request or a question.

I looked up at Abir with a innocent expression, my eyes wide with curiosity. "Shaam ke 7 ya subah ke 7?"

Abir's smile grew wider, and he chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Shaam ke 7, Mish," he said, his voice low and husky.

I glanced at him looking for more information but he just smiled and stepped back moving to the washroom leaving me with my thoughts.

A date? With Abir?

Of course who else will you go with Mishti?

I couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement at the thought itself. Cause all these days we never left home for anything other than hospital visits.

I know we might have went on lot of dates before my accident but of no use for now.

It's going to be our first date.. no last night we had our first date. Tomorrow is going to be our second date. Good that doctors are finally allowing me to eat outside food. These stupid people won't even let me sleep with my husband. I swear they are going to pay for it.

As Abir walked out of the washroom he settled himself over the chair and had a sip of water kept there. I was quick to get the red velvet box kept on my dressing table.

"Abir ek kaam hai tumse"

"Bolo na"

"Maa ne diya hai mujhe" I opened the box showing him the mangalsutra it contained.

"Keh rahi thi ghar ki bahu ka gala suna suna lagta hai"

Abir's voice was calm and detached as he spoke. "Agar tumhein pehenna nahin hai, toh chhod do. Main maa se baat kar loonga."

But I shook my head, my eyes locked onto his. "Nahin, Abir. Main yeh pehenna chahti hoon."

Abir's expression was skeptical, but I could see a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes. "Kyun?" he asked, his voice soft.

"Me tumhari biwi hu ye baat duniya ko pata honi chahiye na. Humari shaadi ka symbol hai ye. Shaadi bhale hi yaad na ho pr humara rishta to hai na"

He was quick to pull me on his lap, making me blush. He gently took the box from me, his fingers brushing mine.

"To isme Mera kya kaam hai?" He enquired staring at me.

I blushed feeling a little shy, I couldn't look into his eyes as I answered "Me chahti hu ki tum mujhe ye phenao"

I took my hand in his, before questioning "Mujh pr bharosa karti ho?"

"Khud se bhi jyada" I answered within a blink. That would never be a question to ask.

"Me khud ye mangalsutra tumhe pehnaunga lekin abhi nahi" his answer left me disappointed and confused.

"Pr kyu?" I couldn't understand him with his unreadable emotions.

"Me nahi bata sakta. But I promise ye mangalsutra me khud tumhe pehnaunga"

"Ye kya baat Hui Abir?"

"Please meri baat samjho."

"Pr Abir.."

"Tumne abhi kaha ki tumhe khud se jyada mujh pr bharosa hai. Ek baar prove bhi kardo"

I just sometimes can't understand this man, his words, his actions are nothing co related. A few moments before he asked me out on a date, right now I am sitting on his lap and he says such things.

"Thik hai" I tried to get away from him but he didn't let me move

"Aise nahi yaar tum to naraz ho gayi"

"Ab kya chahiye?"

"Tumhari smile!"

"Mera koi kaam to kiya nahi jaata tumse aur meri smile
chahiye"

"Sorry. Wo kya hai na aaj muhurat nahi hai uska"

"To kb hai?"

"Kal 6 baje ke baad shaam ko"

"Pakka?"

"Ha. I promise"

"Lekin ye kya baat Hui muhurat and all"

"Uss din tumne mujhse kaha tha na ki you will believe in my beliefs"

"Kitne acche se insaan ko phasate ho tum"

"Talent hai"

"Mujhe bhi aise hi phasaya hoga"

"Ho sakta hai"

"Bohot tez ho rahe ho?" He just hummed at my response as he held my index finger in his had carefully not touching the bandage.

"Ye samjhane ka kasht karengi aap?"

His use of aap was enough for me to know he's angry over it. Well giving respect means something's wrong.

"Wo maa ko kitchen me help kar rahi thi,.."

"Maine kitchen me jaane se mana kiya hai na? Kal maine kuch isliye nahi bola kyuki aapne bohot mehnat ki thi aur me aapka mood nahi bigadna chahata tha. Lekin aaj phir gayi aap?"

"Stop calling me that. Mujhe accha nahi lagta" listening aap from him makes me feel distant.

"Lekin aapko to meri koi baat sunni hi nahi hai. To me aapki kyu sunu?"

"Itna nahi laga hai. Wo to maa ne tumhare jaise exaggerate karke bandage laga diya. Jyada deep cut nahi hai"

"Cut to hai na"

"Accha sorry. Agli baar dhyaan rakhungi"

"Good"

Our talks continued until the househelp knocked on the door asking to join the dinner. As we all completed our dinner maa asked us if we wanted dessert as usual everyone said yes.

Maa walked to us with bowls containing ice cream , Abir denied eating ice cream as soon as he knew it was vanilla flavour. He started making up excuses without uttering he dislikes that flavour.

"Mera Mann nahi hai. Mujhe kaam hai me jaata hu"

"Kha lo beta thodi si to hai" maa insisted,

"Kal to khai thi na tumne kha. Acchi bhi hai kaha tha" I teased him further.

"Kal khai hai na abhi Mann nahi hai" he blurted out.

But maa and me kept on insisting him, he looked at both of us and finally sat down to eat the ice cream he hates.

"Rehne do" maa stopped him from eating that ice cream.

"Mishti fridge me dusri ice cream rakhi hai wo lekar aao" maa uttered looking at me. As I was about to get up Abir held my hand,

"Me lekar aata hu" he got up but maa held his hand,

"Baitho neeche. Mishti tum jao" maa said looking at him.

"Usse kyu pareshan kar rahi hai" he defended himself.

"Neeche baitho Abir" maa said in a strict voice and Abir obliged.

"Mishti tum jao aur ice cream lekar aao" she said looking at me. I was quick to get up and walk towards kitchen.

"Abir, usse kaam karne do. Ho gayi wo thik. Hr chiz ko me karta hu me karta hu nahi chalega." Maa tried to put some brain in his

There isn't much distance between kitchen and dining table so I could hear thier conversation. He was still reluctant over his point. As I opened the fridge and pulled out the ice cream wondering what flavor it is. Oh so my husband likes
coffee walnut ice cream. I get it that he loves coffee but ice cream of same flavour too.

"Abir, tum over protective ho rahe ho ye accha nahi hai..." She continued giving a piece of advice to him which didn't seem to affect him much.

We were soon in our bedroom with him handing me my medicines which luckily would be stopped in a week.

"Aaj rehne dete hai please"

"Tum phirse shuru ho gayi?"

"Waise bhi Anjali ne mujhe kaha ki me physically fine hu, aur usne ye bhi kaha tha ki medicines sirf thode din khaani hai"

"Ha to thode hi din aur khaani hai na. Aaj kha lo"

"Abir please "

"No. Dawai ke saath koi compromise nahi"

"Accha me ye yellow aur white waali kha leti hu baaki ki rehne do"

"Bachti hi do hai. Kha lo na"

"Nahi please. Unka taste sach me bohot kharab hai. Abhi ice cream khai hai accha taste hai"

"Ye medicines kha lo me phir se ice cream khilata hu
tumhe"

"Apni biwi ki itni si baat nahi manoge" from yesterday I have understood he would do anything if I call myself his wife. That's kind of his weak point.

"Thik hai"

As I ate the two tablets, he moved away to his sofa,

"Abir"

"Haan Mish"

"Mujhe kuch sawal puchne hai"

"Pucho"

"Ek minute" fetching the diary from my drawer I opened the page where I made a list of the questions.

"Tumhari favourite dish?"

"Hein? Ye kyu puch rahi ho achanak?" He questioned looking at me unsure. He noticed the diary in my hand,

"Ohh to interview chal raha hai mera" he added.
I couldn't help but laugh at Abir's reaction. "Haan, kuch aisa hi," I said, smiling mischievously.

Abir raised an eyebrow, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Toh main taiyaar hoon, pucho apne sawaal," he said, leaning back against the pillows with a charming smile.

"Favourite dish?"

"Pata hai meri jo favourite dish hai wo maine abhi tk khai nahi hai?"

"Ye konsi dish hai?"

"Tum!"

I felt my face heat up with a blush as Abir's words caught me off guard. "Abir!" I exclaimed, trying to sound stern but unable to hide the smile that was spreading across my face.

Abir chuckled, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Kya, ye sach nahi hai" he teased, his voice low and husky.

I rolled my eyes, trying to play it cool. "Tum bahut badtameez ho," I said, laughing.

Abir grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Tumne mujhe badtameez banaya hai," he said, his voice filled with emotion.

"Bakwas band karo aur jawab do"

"Accha. biryani, dal baati churma thoda bohot Chinese. Ha lekin top priority tum"

"Shut up Abir. Accha favourite colour?" I asked even though I knew the answer.

"Tumhe nahi pata?"

"Nahi" I played along.

"To. Tumhari aankhon ka rang"

"Black hai. Aur ye kabse favourite ho gaya tumhara"

"Jabse tumhari aankhein dekhi tabse"

"Kyu jhoot bol rahe ho. I know you like pink"

"Arey nahi, mera cupboard kholo aadhe kapde black hai. Mere jhoote bhi maximum black hai. Aur to aur mere baal dekho black hai na. Aur kya proof chahiye tumhe"

I burst out laughing at his ridiculous explanation. "Baal black hai" I just couldn't control myself.

"Accha next question, favourite dessert?"

"Ek second me photo dikhata hu"

He fetched out his phone and searched for something then turned the screen towards me. I blushed looking at my own photo on the screen. "Ye kya hai Abir?"

"Mera favourite dessert"

"Chup Karo. Tum mujhe sahi se jawab doge ya nahi" I really want to know what happened today in office that there is such a drastic change in his behaviour. Like is this Abir I have known for eight months. No not at all. He never talked such things with me. In the evening he informed me about our date that too very romantically, then he himself pulled me on his lap. And now this behaviour, dirty talks. This isn't Abir at all.

"Sach hi to bata raha hu"

"Aaj office me kya kiya tumne?"

"Kuch nahi."

"Kuch to hua hai. Tum badal gaye ho. Konse nashe karke aaye ho?"

"Kyu tumhe ye badalav pasand nahi?"

"Aisa nahi hai. Pakka koi nashe nahi kiye hai na?" I teased loving the changed Abir more. This is what I wanted him to be like.

"Nahi. Agla sawal pucho yaar"

"Kya agla sawal iss sawal ka jawab do tum pehle"

"Thik hai madam. Gulab jamun"

"Favourite movie? Khabardar agar mujhe phirse involve Kiya to"

"Uhmm ye to tough ho gaya. Hera pheri, welcome, 3 idiots"

"To comedy type movies pasand hai"

"Hm"

"Favourite hobby"

"Tumhe pata hai"

"Mujhe kuch nahi pata isiliye to tum se puch rahi ho?"

"Tumhare saath waqt bitana"

"Abir..Aur bhi to kuch hoga na like singing dancing koi sports"

"Waise cricket and guitar aur thodi bohot shayri aur cycling"

"Guitar? Ye to maine aaj tk dekha nahi"

"Wo maine bajana chod diya hai"

"Mujhe sach me nahi pata tha. Pr kyu chod diya?"

"Aise hi. Like life me busy ho gaya"

"Ohh mujhe dekhna hai tumhe guitar bajate hue"

"Abhi to zindagi padi hai saath jeene ke liye. Phir kabhi"

"Tumhara favourite song"

"Yaar Aisa koi fav song vagera nahi hai"

"Accha fav singer to hoga"

"Tum"

"I will kill you thik hai. Mazak band karo"

"Arey ye mazak thodi hai ye sach hai"

"Mujhe baat hi nahi karni tumse jao" I acted to keep away the diary and sleep.

"Arey sorry sorry Kishore Kumar, Arijit Singh Shreya"

I noted all the answers down in my diary,

"Favourite ice cream"

"Abhi to tumne laakr di"

"Hmm. Favourite cricket player?"

"Ye jaan ke kya karogi?"

"Tum jawab de rahe ho ya nahi?"

"Accha thik hai Sachin"

I kept on asking him questions that I thought I didn't know about him. Once the questions were done he looked at me saying "to interview me pass ya fail?"

"Fail!"

"Kyu?" He made a puppy face,

"Kyu? Kisi sawal ka dhang se jawab nahi diya tumne. Hr jawab me kaise bhi karke mujhe le aate the"

"Ab meri favourite hi tum ho to sb ne involve to hogi na"

"I am impressed. Pass ho gaye tum" I said keeping the dairy back in the drawer.

"Waise mujhe ab pata chalega ki ye interview kyu ho raha tha?"

"Maa bata rahi thi ki tumhe vanilla pasand nahi hai. Lekin kal raat ko maine tumhe khilaye. Mujhe tb realise hua ki me tumhe utne acche se nahi pechanti jitna acche se tum mujhe pechante ho. So I made an effort to do it"

He embraced me, around my torso placing a kiss over my head. "Itna Mt socha Karo. Tum mere saath ho ye kaafi hai" he uttered breaking the hug.

"Sochna zaroori hai. Nahi aise hi me tumhe vanilla khilate rahungi" we both just chuckled over it.

"Ab tumhari turn. Batao tumhara favourite colour?" He questioned me,

"Tumhe sb pata hai" I answered knowing he is just teasing me nothing else. "Me to tumhari aankhon ka colour bhi nahi bol sakti mere baal brown jo nahi hai" we both just chuckled over it.

"Ab dekho meri favourite category of movie hai comedy to meri life me mast hasi mazak hota rehta hai meri personality bhi waise hi. Aur tumhari favourite category kya hai crime psychological thriller, tum bhi waise ho aur tumhare saath hota bhi waisa hi hai" he explained

"Me samjhi nahi mere saath kya hua?" I asked not knowing where was this leading.

"Tumhara accident, memories jana proper movie scene
ha.."

"Aur me bhi waise hi behave karti thi. Bilkul trust nahi tha tum pr. Hr chiz cross check karti thi. Mujhe sach me lagta tha ki tumne mujhe kidnap kiya hai ya phir mera fayda uthana chahate the" I snorted over the memories.

"Dekha isiliye acchi filme dekha karo"

"Aaye bade"

We talked for a few more minutes, it felt good in his arms like safe and secure but he had to leave me to go and sleep over that fucking sofa.

As I laid down, he helped me cover myself with the blanket, bent down to place a kiss over my forehead like he always does. He moved and kissed my cheeks too that's something he doesn't do.

As Abir's lips brushed against my cheeks, I felt a flutter in my chest. It was a gentle, soft touch, but it sent shivers down my spine. I looked up at him, and our eyes met for a moment. I saw something in his eyes, something that looked like affection, like caring.

Abir straightened up, and I could see the faintest hint of a smile on his lips. "Goodnight, Mish," he said, his voice low and soft.

I smiled back at him, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort. "Goodnight, Abir," I replied, my voice barely a whisper.

As Abir turned to leave, I felt a pang of sadness. I didn't want him to go, I didn't want him to sleep on that sofa. I wanted him to stay with me, to hold me, to keep me safe. But I knew that couldn't happen, not yet,

********

This is the first part. It's of +11.5k words

Hope you liked it.

Let me know your views on it.

Part two might take time.