super duper long chapter as per request

As Shubman and Nila made their way through the bustling airport, they couldn't help but draw attention. Cameras flashed around them, capturing their every move as they navigated through the crowd.

Shubman's familiar face was instantly recognizable to many, his status as an Indian cricketer making him a celebrity in his own right. Nila, with her radiant smile and effortless charm, also garnered attention, her status as a talented screenplay writer adding to her allure.

Shubman grinned at Nila as they walked, his hand securely entwined with hers as they moved through the sea of people. "Looks like we're the center of attention again," he remarked, amusement dancing in his eyes as he glanced at the flashing cameras.

Nila chuckled softly, her cheeks flushed with the sudden influx of attention. "Seems like it," she replied, her voice tinged with amusement as she adjusted her grip on Shubman's hand.

Despite the attention, Shubman and Nila continued on their path, their steps confident and purposeful. They were accustomed to the scrutiny that came with fame, and they navigated the attention with ease, their bond only growing stronger with each shared moment.

As they approached the security checkpoint, Shubman flashed a charming smile at the security personnel, his demeanor relaxed and friendly. Nila followed suit, offering a warm smile to the staff as they made their way through the security screening.

Once through security, Shubman and Nila found themselves in the bustling departure lounge, surrounded by shops and fellow travellers. Despite the chaos of the airport, they remained focused on each other, their connection unbreakable amidst the flurry of activity.

With their boarding passes in hand, Shubman and Nila made their way to the gate, excitement bubbling in their chests at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.

Shubman and Nila settled into their seats on the plane, the hum of the engines and the gentle sway of the aircraft lulling them into a sense of calm. Nila stowed her carry-on bag in the overhead compartment, while Shubman helped her adjust her seatbelt with a tender smile.

"There we go, all buckled in," Shubman said, his voice soft as he leaned in to press a gentle kiss to Nila's cheek.

Nila smiled back at him, her heart fluttering at the affectionate gesture. "Thanks, Shubman," she replied, her voice filled with warmth as she returned his kiss.

As they made themselves comfortable, Nila couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling within her. The thought of embarking on this journey with Shubman by her side filled her with a sense of joy and anticipation.

Shubman reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers as he leaned in close. "Ready for this adventure, love?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Nila nodded eagerly, a smile spreading across her lips. "Absolutely. I can't wait to see what's in store for us," she replied, her voice tinged with excitement as she squeezed his hand.

With their hearts full of anticipation and their hands intertwined, Shubman and Nila prepared to embark on their journey together. As the plane taxied down the runway and lifted off into the sky, they knew that no matter where life took them, they would always have each other to lean on. 

As the plane ascended into the sky, Shubman turned to Nila with a tender smile, his eyes filled with affection. Leaning in close, he cupped her cheek gently with his hand before pressing a soft, lingering kiss to her lips.

Nila's heart fluttered at the intimate gesture, her cheeks flushing with warmth as she melted into his embrace. Despite their agreement to fake date, the connection between them felt undeniably real in that moment, filling her with a sense of warmth and belonging.

Their lips parted, but the electricity between them lingered in the air, a silent acknowledgement of the unspoken bond that had formed between them. Shubman's gaze met hers, his eyes shining with sincerity as he whispered, "I'm glad you're here with me, Nila."

Nila smiled back at him, her heart swelling with affection. "Me too, Shubman," she replied softly, her voice filled with warmth as she snuggled closer to him in their seats.

As they settled in for the flight, the gentle hum of the plane surrounding them, Shubman and Nila knew that despite the complexities of their situation, they were in this together. 

As Nila drifted off to sleep beside him, Shubman couldn't help but feel a surge of frustration bubbling within him. He ran a hand through his hair, his brows furrowing in a mixture of confusion and irritation.

"Damn it," he muttered under his breath, his voice barely above a whisper as he wrestled with his thoughts. "This fake dating shit is driving me crazy."

He leaned back in his seat, his mind swirling with a whirlwind of emotions. On one hand, he knew he couldn't deny the growing feelings he had for Nila. But on the other hand, the pressure of their fake relationship weighed heavily on him, threatening to suffocate him with every passing moment.

"Just gotta keep up the act," he muttered to himself, his jaw clenched with determination. "For the sake of my family, for the sake of... everything."

But even as he tried to convince himself of the necessity of their charade, a part of him couldn't shake the feeling of guilt that gnawed at his conscience. He cared for Nila deeply, and the thought of deceiving her—of deceiving himself—left a bitter taste in his mouth.

Just then, he felt Nila shift beside him, her body instinctively snuggling closer to his. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she nestled against him, her warmth seeping into his skin and soothing the turmoil within him.

Shubman couldn't help but feel a pang of longing as he looked down at her sleeping form, her peaceful expression tugging at his heartstrings. Despite the complications of their situation, he couldn't deny the depth of his feelings for her.

"I love her," he whispered to himself, the words hanging heavy in the air as he stared down at her with a mixture of adoration and anguish. "God, I love her so much."

But as the plane hummed softly around them, Shubman knew that their journey was far from over. With a heavy heart and a mind filled with uncertainty, he wrapped his arms around Nila, pulling her close as he vowed to protect her, no matter the cost.

As the plane continued its steady course through the night sky, Shubman held Nila close, his thoughts consumed by the tumultuous whirlwind of emotions swirling within him. Despite the darkness pressing in around them, he found solace in the warmth of her presence, her steady breathing a comforting rhythm against his chest.

"I can't keep doing this," he murmured softly to himself, his voice barely audible over the drone of the plane's engines. "Pretending... lying... it's tearing me apart."

His fingers traced absent-minded patterns along Nila's arm, his touch gentle yet laden with the weight of his internal struggle. He knew he couldn't continue to deceive her, to deceive himself, yet the prospect of revealing the truth filled him with a sense of dread.

"But what choice do I have?" he thought bitterly, his jaw tightening with frustration. "I can't risk disappointing my family, but I can't bear to see the hurt in her eyes when she finds out."

As he grappled with the weight of his dilemma, Shubman felt Nila stir beside him, her eyelashes fluttering as she began to rouse from her slumber. He held his breath, his heart pounding in his chest as he braced himself for her reaction.

To his surprise, Nila's sleepy gaze met his own, her lips curling into a soft, sleepy smile as she reached up to brush a stray strand of hair from his forehead. "Hey," she murmured, her voice thick with sleep but filled with warmth. "What's on your mind?"

Shubman swallowed hard, the lump in his throat making it difficult to speak. "Just... thinking," he replied evasively, his gaze dropping to the floor as he struggled to find the right words.

But Nila's hand found his chin, gently guiding his gaze back to meet hers. "You can talk to me, Shubman," she said softly, her eyes searching his for any hint of the turmoil raging within him. "Whatever it is, we'll figure it out together."

Her words washed over him like a balm to his wounded soul, and for a fleeting moment, Shubman allowed himself to believe that maybe, just maybe, there was hope for them yet. With a heavy sigh, he leaned in to press a tender kiss to Nila's forehead, his heart heavy with the weight of the truth he longed to share.

"Thank you, Nila," he whispered, his voice barely a whisper against her skin. "For everything."

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As the plane touched down in Udaipur, Shubman and Nila gathered their belongings and made their way off the aircraft, stepping into the warm embrace of the Rajasthan evening. The air was heavy with the scent of spices and the distant sound of traditional music drifted through the air, welcoming them to the vibrant city.

Shubman's hand found Nila's instinctively, their fingers intertwining as they navigated through the bustling airport terminal. Despite the fatigue of their journey, excitement buzzed between them, anticipation building for the festivities that awaited them.

Nila's eyes sparkled with curiosity as they emerged from the airport, taking in the sights and sounds of Udaipur with wonder. Shubman couldn't help but smile at her infectious enthusiasm, his heart swelling with affection for the woman by his side.

"Welcome to Udaipur, Nila," he said, his voice tinged with excitement as he squeezed her hand gently. "I can't wait to show you around."

Nila beamed up at him, her eyes alight with excitement. "Thank you, Shubman," she replied, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I'm so grateful to be here with you."

With their bags in tow, Shubman and Nila made their way to the waiting car, the driver ready to whisk them away to their accommodations.

 As they settled into the backseat, the anticipation of the days ahead hung heavy in the air, promising adventure, romance, and the chance to create memories that would last a lifetime. 

The late afternoon sun cast a warm golden hue over the sprawling estate as Shubman and Nila pulled up to his cousin's place. Shubman's nerves were palpable, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his tshirt. Glancing sideways at Nila, he offered her a sheepish smile, his usual confidence momentarily replaced by a flicker of uncertainty.

Nila, ever perceptive, caught the subtle shift in Shubman's demeanour. With a reassuring squeeze of his hand, she intertwined her fingers with his, the touch grounding him in the present moment. Stepping out of the car, they retrieved their bags from the trunk, the weight of their charade hanging heavy in the air.

As they approached the front door, Shubman's heart hammered against his chest like a well-timed drumbeat. The sound of laughter and chatter from inside only served to heighten his nerves. With a deep breath, he mustered up what little courage he had left and rang the doorbell.

Before he could even finish exhaling, the door swung open, revealing his cousin, who practically bounded out like an overenthusiastic puppy. "Shubman! Buddy, you made it!" he exclaimed, his voice booming with excitement.

Shubman couldn't help but smile at his cousin's exuberance, grateful for the distraction it provided. "Hey, Manav! Yeah, we're here," he replied, trying to sound casual despite the knot of tension coiled in his stomach.

Manav's eyes then flickered to Nila, and a mischievous grin spread across his face. "And who might this lovely lady be?" he asked, his eyebrows wiggling suggestively.

Nila, ever the quick thinker, flashed him a charming smile, playing along with the charade. "I'm Nila," she said smoothly, extending her hand for him to shake. "Shubman's girlfriend."

Shubman's heart skipped a beat at the words, his eyes widening slightly in surprise. But before he could process the implications of Nila's declaration, Manav enveloped them both in a bone-crushing hug, his enthusiasm infectious.

"Well, it's about time, Shubman!" he exclaimed, releasing them from his embrace. "Come on in, everyone's been dying to meet you two!"

With a mixture of trepidation and excitement, Shubman and Nila followed Manav into the bustling household, their hands still intertwined as they stepped over the threshold into the unknown. 

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Shubman navigated the lively crowd, his heart raced with a mix of nerves and anticipation. His parents and elder sister Shahneel were somewhere in the throng, undoubtedly eager to greet him and meet his supposed girlfriend, Nila. With a deep breath, he plastered on his best smile and scanned the room for familiar faces.

Spotting his parents and Shahneel near the buffet table, Shubman made his way over, his pulse quickening with each step. His mother, a vision in traditional attire, spotted him first and her face lit up with a radiant smile.

"Shubman! There you are, beta!" she exclaimed, her arms outstretched in welcome.

Shubman embraced his mother warmly, basking in the comfort of her familiar embrace. "Hey, Ma," he said, his voice tinged with affection.

His father, a stern yet kind-hearted man, joined in the embrace, clapping Shubman on the back with pride. "Good to see you, son," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of paternal authority.

Beside them stood Shahneel, Shubman's elder sister and confidante. With her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, she was the family's resident voice of reason. As Shubman approached, she arched an eyebrow inquisitively.

"Well, well, well, look who decided to grace us with his presence," she teased, a playful glint in her eyes.

Shubman chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment. "Hey, Shahneel. Long time no see," he quipped, trying to play it cool despite the butterflies fluttering in his stomach.

As the conversation flowed, Shubman's nerves began to settle, buoyed by the warmth of his family's love and acceptance. But just as he started to relax into the familiar banter, his mother's voice cut through the air like a knife.

"Shubman, beta, where's Nila?" she asked, her gaze searching the crowded room for any sign of the elusive Nila.

Shubman's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Nila's name, his mind racing to come up with a plausible explanation. With a forced smile, he glanced around the room, his eyes landing on the staircase where Nila had disappeared moments earlier.

"Oh, uh, Nila's just freshening up. She'll be down in a bit," he replied, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

His mother nodded in understanding, a knowing smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Well, we can't wait to meet her," she said, her tone laced with excitement.

Shubman's stomach churned with apprehension as he prayed silently that Nila would emerge from their room unscathed. Little did he know, their carefully crafted facade was about to be put to the ultimate test.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Shubman made his way upstairs to their room, his heart pounded in his chest with a mixture of nerves and anticipation. The thought of facing his family with Nila by his side sent a thrill of excitement coursing through him, even as he wrestled with the weight of their deception.

Upon reaching the door, he hesitated for a moment, his hand hovering over the doorknob as he took a deep breath to steady himself. With a determined exhale, he pushed the door open, only to freeze in his tracks at the sight before him.

There she was, Nila, standing in the middle of the room in nothing but a pair of jersey shorts, her back turned to him as she struggled with the clasp of her bra. Her hair cascaded in soft waves down her back, the gentle curve of her spine a tantalizing invitation.

For a moment, Shubman couldn't tear his gaze away, captivated by the sight of her. He watched as she furrowed her brows in concentration, her fingers fumbling with the stubborn hook as a frustrated sigh escaped her lips.

Without even realizing he had moved, Shubman found himself crossing the room towards her, his steps slow and deliberate. With a gentle click, he closed the door behind him, the soft sound barely registering over the thunderous beat of his heart.

As he drew closer, Nila still hadn't noticed his presence, her focus consumed by the task at hand. With a silent exhale, Shubman reached out, his fingers grazing the delicate curve of her shoulder as he took hold of the clasp of her bra.

"Let me help you with that," he murmured, his voice low and husky as he leaned in close, his breath ghosting over the nape of her neck.

Nila started at the unexpected sound of his voice, her body tensing for a moment before relaxing into his touch. With practised ease, Shubman deftly manoeuvred the clasp, the metallic click echoing in the quiet room as he secured it in place.

As the tension melted away, Shubman couldn't resist the pull any longer. With a boldness he didn't know he possessed, he wrapped his arms around Nila from behind, pulling her close against his chest.

The warmth of her body against his sent a shiver down his spine, igniting a fire that burned hotter with each passing moment. His heart raced as he pressed his lips to the soft skin of her neck, trailing kisses along the curve of her shoulder.

"Shubman," Nila breathed, her voice barely above a whisper as she melted into his embrace.

But even as desire coursed through his veins, a nagging voice in the back of Shubman's mind whispered caution. They were playing with fire, dancing dangerously close to the edge of something neither of them could control.

Yet in that moment, with Nila in his arms, Shubman couldn't bring himself to care. For once, he allowed himself to succumb to the intoxicating pull of desire, losing himself in the warmth of her embrace as they stood on the precipice of something neither of them could deny.

As Shubman held Nila close, the world outside their embrace seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them suspended in a moment of shared intimacy. His senses were overwhelmed by the scent of her hair, the softness of her skin, the gentle rise and fall of her breath against his chest.

For a heartbeat, time stood still, the weight of their unspoken desires hanging heavy in the air. But just as quickly as the moment had begun, reality came crashing back with a jolt.

Shubman's mind raced as he wrestled with conflicting emotions, torn between the undeniable attraction he felt for Nila and the knowledge that their relationship was built on a foundation of lies. He knew he should pull away, put an end to their illicit embrace before things spiraled out of control.

But as he looked into Nila's eyes, dark pools of desire staring back at him, all rational thought flew out the window. In that moment, he wanted nothing more than to lose himself in her, to forget the world outside and give in to the overwhelming passion that threatened to consume them both.

"Shubman," Nila whispered again, her voice a breathless plea that sent a shiver down his spine.

Unable to resist any longer, Shubman leaned in, capturing her lips in a searing kiss that left them both gasping for air. It was a kiss born of desperation and longing, a silent plea for something more than the facade they had constructed.

As their lips met, time seemed to slow to a crawl, each moment stretching out into eternity as they lost themselves in the intoxicating dance of desire. In that moment, there were no lies, no expectations, no consequences—only the two of them, bound together by the undeniable pull of attraction.

But even as the flames of passion threatened to consume them, a small voice in the back of Shubman's mind whispered a warning. This was dangerous territory, a path fraught with peril and uncertainty. Yet as he deepened the kiss, tangling his fingers in Nila's hair and pulling her closer, he couldn't bring himself to care.

For in that moment, all that mattered was the electric connection between them, the fire that burned hot and bright in the depths of their souls. 

As their kiss deepened, the world outside their embrace seemed to fade away, leaving only the sensation of each other's lips, the rhythm of their breaths intertwining. Shubman's heart thundered in his chest, a wild symphony of desire and uncertainty.

But just as the flames of passion threatened to consume them both, a sharp rap at the door shattered the moment like glass, yanking them back to reality with a jolt.

"Shubman? Nila? Are you guys in there?" came Shahneel's voice from the other side of the door, the concern evident in her tone.

Panic surged through Shubman's veins like ice water as he reluctantly pulled away from Nila, their breaths mingling in the space between them. With a quick, furtive glance exchanged between them, Shubman reluctantly released Nila from his embrace, his fingers lingering on her skin as if unwilling to let her go.

"Yeah, Shahneel, we're here," Shubman called out, his voice betraying none of the turmoil raging inside him.

There was a brief pause, during which Shubman could practically feel Shahneel's sharp gaze boring into the door. "Everything okay in there? It sounded like...never mind. Dinner's almost ready. Don't keep us waiting too long," she replied, her voice trailing off uncertainly before receding down the hallway.

As the sound of her footsteps faded into the distance, Shubman let out a shaky breath, his heart still racing from the intensity of their moment together. He turned to face Nila, his eyes searching hers for any sign of regret or hesitation.

But to his surprise, he found only warmth and understanding reflected back at him, a silent reassurance that they were in this together, whatever may come.

"Are you okay?" Nila asked softly, her voice a soothing balm to Shubman's frayed nerves.

Shubman nodded, a ghost of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, I'm okay. Just...a lot to process," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Nila reached out, her fingers intertwining with his as she offered him a reassuring squeeze. "We'll figure it out together," she said, her eyes sparkling with unwavering determination.

And as Shubman looked into those eyes, he knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, he would face them head-on, with Nila by his side. For in that moment, he realized that their love was stronger than any lie, and together, they were unstoppable.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Nila stood before the mirror, the soft glow of the room's ambient light casting a warm halo around her, she couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement. Today, she wasn't just Nila the screenwriter; she was Nila, the girlfriend of Shubman Gill, stepping into a role she never thought she'd play.

With practiced ease, she draped the maroon saree around her slender frame, the rich fabric cascading in elegant folds down to her ankles. The blouse, with its three-quarter sleeves adorned with intricate embroidery, hugged her curves in all the right places, adding a touch of understated glamour to her ensemble.

As she carefully pinned her hair into a loose, tousled bun, strands of dark curls framing her face in a soft halo, she couldn't help but admire the transformation in the mirror. Gone was the confident, independent Nila; in her place stood a woman who was equal parts nervous and exhilarated, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

With a final adjustment to her jhumkas, the delicate gold earrings glinting in the light, and a quick glance at her wristwatch to check the time, Nila felt a surge of determination wash over her. She may have been stepping into unfamiliar territory, but she refused to let fear hold her back.

Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, Nila made her way downstairs, the soft rustle of her saree echoing in the quiet hallway. With each step, she could feel the weight of expectation pressing down on her shoulders, but she squared them back, refusing to let it show.

Meanwhile, in the midst of animated conversation with his relatives, Shubman's attention was suddenly drawn to the staircase as he caught a glimpse of movement out of the corner of his eye. His heart skipped a beat as he watched Nila descend the stairs, a vision of beauty in her maroon saree and jhumkas.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as Shubman drank in the sight of her, his breath catching in his throat at the sheer perfection of it all. The way the saree hugged her curves, the gentle sway of her hips with each step, the mesmerizing glint of her jhumkas against the soft curls of her hair—it was almost too much to bear.

As Nila reached the bottom of the stairs, her eyes met Shubman's, and a playful twinkle danced in their depths. With a teasing raise of her eyebrows, she silently dared him to look away, a knowing smile playing at the corners of her lips.

Unable to resist the magnetic pull of her gaze, Shubman felt his lips quirk up into a dreamy smile, his heart swelling with a rush of affection. In that moment, surrounded by his family and bathed in the soft glow of the evening light, he knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, having Nila by his side made it all worthwhile.

As Nila descended the staircase, she couldn't help but notice the way Shubman's eyes widened in awe, his gaze fixated on her as if she were the only thing that mattered in the world. It sent a thrill coursing through her veins, knowing that she had the power to captivate him so completely.

With each step, she felt a surge of confidence wash over her, bolstered by the warmth of Shubman's gaze and the silent promise it held. It was a heady feeling, knowing that she was the one who could make him smile like that, even in the midst of their elaborate charade.

Reaching the bottom of the staircase, Nila's eyes met Shubman's, and she couldn't resist the urge to tease him, to see that dreamy smile spread across his lips once more. Raising her eyebrows playfully, she held his gaze, a silent challenge passing between them.

Shubman's smile widened at her silent dare, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of affection and amusement. It was a look that sent a flurry of butterflies fluttering in Nila's stomach, a silent affirmation of the connection they shared.

As Shubman made his way towards her, his steps slow and deliberate, Nila felt a rush of excitement course through her veins. She knew that their journey together would be anything but easy, but in that moment, surrounded by the warmth of his gaze, she felt invincible.

With a final step, Shubman stood before her, his eyes locking with hers in an unspoken promise. And as they shared a knowing smile, Nila knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, hand in hand.

Feeling Shubman's arms envelop her in a warm embrace, Nila couldn't help but melt into his touch, her heart skipping a beat at the closeness between them. She raised her hand to gently grasp his bicep, relishing the strength and security it offered.

Their bodies pressed together, fitting perfectly like pieces of a puzzle, as if they were meant to be intertwined in that moment. Nila tilted her head upward to meet Shubman's gaze, the depths of his eyes reflecting the love and longing she felt in her own heart.

In that embrace, amidst the murmurs of conversation and the soft glow of the room, Nila felt a sense of belonging wash over her. It was as if they had carved out a sanctuary for themselves, a safe haven where their love could flourish away from the prying eyes of the world.

As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Nila felt a sense of peace settle over her. Despite the uncertainty of their situation, she knew that as long as they had each other, they could weather any storm that came their way.

With a contented sigh, she leaned into Shubman's embrace, revelling in the warmth of his touch and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. At that moment, surrounded by the love of their family and the promise of their future together, Nila knew that she had found her home in Shubman's arms. 

As Shubman and Nila stood wrapped in their tender embrace, they were gently interrupted by the approach of one of Shubman's jovial uncles and his warm-hearted aunt. The uncle's hearty laugh echoed through the room as he clapped Shubman on the back with a boisterous grin.

"Well, well, well! Look who finally decided to show up!" the uncle exclaimed, his voice booming with joviality.

Shubman grinned sheepishly under his uncle's playful scrutiny, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Hey, Uncle! Sorry, we're a bit late," he replied, his tone apologetic yet laced with good humour.

Beside him, Nila couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Shubman's bashful expression, her eyes sparkling with amusement. She extended her hand in greeting, her smile warm and genuine. "Hi, I'm Nila. It's nice to meet you," she said politely, her voice carrying a hint of mischief.

The aunt's eyes lit up with delight as she took Nila's hand in her own, her face breaking into a radiant smile. "Oh, Shubman's been talking all about you! It's wonderful to finally put a face to the name," she exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.

Shubman's uncle chuckled heartily, shooting Shubman a knowing look. "Ah, so this is the famous Nila we've been hearing so much about, eh? You're a lucky man, Shubman!" he teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Shubman could feel his cheeks growing warmer under his uncle's playful scrutiny, but he couldn't deny the truth in his words. With Nila by his side, he felt like the luckiest man in the world.As they exchanged pleasantries and laughter filled the air, Shubman couldn't help but steal a glance at Nila, his heart swelling with affection. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of his family and the love of his supposed girlfriend, Shubman knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be. And as they shared a smile, he silently vowed to cherish every moment of their journey together, no matter what the future held.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

The night wore on, and the atmosphere shifted from the warm glow of familial love to the vibrant energy of a gathering with old friends. Shubman found himself surrounded by familiar faces, his childhood buddies regaling him with tales of their exploits on and off the cricket field.

With a drink in hand and a smile on his face, Shubman basked in the camaraderie of his friends, grateful for the chance to unwind and escape the pressures of his professional life, if only for a few precious hours.

Beside him, Nila laughed along with the group, her easy charm and quick wit earning her a place among Shubman's closest confidantes. 

But just as the night seemed to be reaching its peak, Shubman's old friends took the conversation in a direction that made his blood run cold. With a sly grin and a knowing wink, one of them turned to Shubman with a lewd chuckle.

"So, Shubman, how's Nila in bed?" he asked, his tone laced with an unsettling mixture of curiosity and innuendo.

Shubman's heart plummeted at the crass question, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment as he struggled to find the words to respond. Beside him, Nila's laughter faltered, her eyes welling up with tears at the blatant disregard for her dignity.

Before Shubman could even begin to formulate a response, Nila rose from her seat, her hands trembling with suppressed emotion. "Excuse me," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she hurriedly made her way towards the door, desperate to escape the suffocating weight of the conversation.

Shubman watched in stunned silence as Nila disappeared from view, his heart heavy with guilt and regret. He knew that his friend's words had cut her deeply, exposing the vulnerability that she had worked so hard to conceal.

With a heavy sigh, Shubman turned to his friends, his expression a mixture of anger and disappointment. "That was uncalled for," he muttered, his voice tinged with a hint of reproach.

But his words fell on deaf ears, drowned out by the raucous laughter of his friends as they continued to jest and joke, oblivious to the pain they had caused. And as Shubman sat there, his heart heavy with remorse, he couldn't help but wonder how he could ever make things right with the woman he loved.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

The night air was cool against Shubman's skin as he made his way through the garden, the soft glow of the moon casting a gentle light on the sprawling estate. His heart pounded in his chest with each step, his mind consumed by the image of Nila's tear-streaked face and the pain etched in her eyes.

As he rounded the corner, he spotted her sitting alone on the swing, her silhouette illuminated by the soft glow of the garden lights. His heart clenched at the sight of her, her shoulders slumped in defeat, her cheeks glistening with the remnants of her tears.

"Nila," he called softly, his voice filled with a mixture of concern and remorse as he approached her.

Nila didn't look up, her gaze fixed on the ground as if unable to meet his eyes. "What do you want, Shubman?" she asked, her voice tinged with anger and hurt.

Shubman's heart sank at the bitterness in her tone, knowing that he was the cause of her pain. 

"I... I just wanted to make sure you were okay," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

Nila scoffed bitterly, her tears threatening to spill over once more. "Okay? How can I be okay, Shubman? How can anyone be okay after hearing the shit your friends spew about us?" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion.

Shubman winced at her words, the weight of her accusation hitting him like a punch to the gut. "I'm sorry, Nila. I didn't know they were going to say that," he said, his voice thick with regret.

Nila looked up at him then, her eyes blazing with a mixture of anger and betrayal. "But you knew what they were like, Shubman. You knew how they talked about women. And yet you brought me here, knowing damn well what would happen," she accused, her voice laced with hurt.

Shubman felt a lump form in his throat at her words, knowing that she was right. He had been reckless, thinking only of himself and his own desires without considering the consequences for Nila. "I'm so sorry, Nila. I never meant for any of this to happen," he pleaded, his voice cracking with emotion.

But Nila shook her head, her anger undiminished. "Sorry isn't good enough, Shubman. Do you have any idea what it feels like to be reduced to nothing but a fucking object? To have your worth judged by how well you fuck in bed?" she demanded, her voice rising with each word.

Shubman felt a pang of guilt shoot through him at the raw pain in Nila's voice, knowing that he was the one who had brought her to this point. "I know, Nila. I fucked up. I fucked up big time," he admitted, his voice thick with emotion.

Nila's anger seemed to deflate at his words, replaced by a profound sadness that cut Shubman to the core. "I thought... I thought you were different, Shubman. I thought you actually cared about me," she whispered, her voice choked with tears.

Shubman knelt down in front of her, his heart breaking at the sight of her pain. "I do care about you, Nila. More than you'll ever know," he vowed, his voice trembling with sincerity.

But Nila shook her head, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. "If you really cared about me, Shubman, you would have stood up for me. You would have told your friends to fuck off instead of letting them talk about me like I'm some fucking trophy," she accused, her voice filled with bitterness.

Shubman felt a surge of shame wash over him at her words, knowing that she was right. He had been a coward, too afraid to stand up for the woman he loved when she needed him the most. 

"You're right, Nila. I should have said something. I should have defended you," he admitted, his voice filled with regret.

Nila looked up at him then, her eyes searching his for any sign of sincerity. "Do you really mean that, Shubman? Or are you just saying what you think I want to hear?" she asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

Shubman reached out, gently cupping her face in his hands, his heart aching at the vulnerability in her eyes. "I mean it, Nila. I swear to you, I'll never let anyone disrespect you like that again. I'll do whatever it takes to make it right, I promise," he vowed, his voice thick with emotion.

Nila searched his eyes for a long moment, as if weighing his words against the pain in her heart. And then, finally, she nodded, a single tear slipping down her cheek. "Okay, Shubman. Okay," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper.

With a sense of relief flooding through him, Shubman pulled her into his arms, holding her close as if he never wanted to let her go. And in that moment, surrounded by the soft rustle of leaves and the gentle hum of the night, he vowed to himself that he would do whatever it took to earn back Nila's trust and prove to her that his love was worth fighting for.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Shubman held Nila in his arms, a sense of relief washed over him, the weight of their earlier confrontation lifting from his shoulders. He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, his heart swelling with gratitude for her forgiveness.

But just as he began to relax into their embrace, Nila pulled away with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Before Shubman could react, she playfully swatted at him, causing him to stumble backward with a surprised laugh.

"Hey, what was that for?" he protested, his laughter echoing through the garden as he regained his balance.

Nila grinned wickedly, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Consider it payback for letting your friends talk about me like that," she teased, her tone light despite the lingering hurt in her heart.

Shubman chuckled, his heart swelling with affection for the woman who had stolen his heart. "Fair enough," he admitted, his voice tinged with amusement.

But before he could say anything else, Nila's eyes widened in mock horror as she watched him teeter precariously close to the edge of the pool. With a mischievous gleam in her eyes, she gave him a playful shove, sending him tumbling backward with a surprised yelp.

Shubman hit the water with a splash, his laughter ringing out as he surfaced, shaking the water from his hair. He looked up at Nila with a playful grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

"You're going to pay for that, you know," he warned, his voice dripping with mock indignation.

Nila laughed, her melodic laughter filling the air as she watched him swim lazily around the pool. She settled down beside the edge, her eyes tracing the sleek lines of his toned torso as he moved through the water with effortless grace.

Shubman emerged from the pool a few moments later, his wet hair plastered to his forehead as he climbed out with a satisfied grin. He shrugged off his kurta, tossing it aside before diving back into the cool embrace of the water.

As he surfaced once more, he caught Nila's eye, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of her sitting there beside the pool, her eyes sparkling with admiration. At that moment, surrounded by the soft glow of the moonlight and the gentle ripple of the water, Shubman knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be—with the woman he loved by his side, laughing and playing like carefree children in the night.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Shubman rested against the edge of the pool, the cool tiles pressing against his bare back, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. The night air was alive with the soft rustle of leaves and the gentle hum of crickets, creating a serene backdrop to the moment.

His gaze drifted to Nila, seated on the opposite side of the pool, her silhouette bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight. She looked ethereal, her hair cascading around her shoulders in loose waves as she removed the clip, allowing her messy bun to fall in disarray.

For a moment, Shubman was mesmerized by the sight of her, the gentle curve of her smile and the sparkle in her eyes casting a spell over him. In that moment, she seemed to glow with an inner light, her beauty transcending the mundane world around them.

With a sense of determination, Shubman pushed off from the edge of the pool, the water parting around him as he swam effortlessly to the other side. He emerged from the water with a splash, his chest heaving with exertion as he settled beside Nila, his hands resting on the edge of the pool in front of her.

Nila looked up at him, her eyes soft with affection as she met his gaze. "Hey," she said softly, her voice a gentle caress in the stillness of the night.

"Hey," Shubman replied, his voice barely above a whisper as he returned her smile with one of his own.

For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, the only sound the soft lapping of water against the pool's edge. Shubman couldn't tear his gaze away from Nila, captivated by the way the moonlight played across her features, turning her into a vision of beauty.

"You look like a goddess," he murmured, his voice filled with awe and reverence as he took in her radiant beauty.

Nila's cheeks flushed pink at his words, a shy smile playing at the corners of her lips. "And you look like a Greek god," she teased, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Shubman laughed, the sound echoing through the night like music. "I'll take that as a compliment," he replied, his heart swelling with love for the woman beside him.

They sat there for a while longer, lost in each other's company, the world around them fading into insignificance. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of the night and the warmth of their love, Shubman knew that he had found his own slice of paradise—right here, with Nila by his side.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As they sat by the poolside, Shubman couldn't help but feel a sense of peace settle over him, a tranquility that he only found in Nila's presence. The soft glow of the moon cast a silver sheen over everything, illuminating the garden in a ethereal light that seemed to dance across Nila's features.

He reached out, his fingers grazing lightly against her cheek, tracing the delicate curve of her jawline. "You're even more beautiful than the moonlight," he whispered, his voice barely above a breath as he gazed into her eyes.

Nila's breath caught in her throat at his words, her heart swelling with emotion at the tenderness in his touch. "And you're even more charming than I remember," she replied, her voice soft and filled with affection.

Shubman smiled, his heart soaring at her words. "I mean it, Nila. You're like a goddess, sitting here under the moonlight, with your hair like a cascade of stars," he said earnestly, his eyes filled with adoration.

Nila's cheeks flushed pink at his words, a shy smile playing at her lips. "You always know just what to say," she murmured, her eyes shining with love.

As they sat there, lost in the magic of the moment, Shubman couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude wash over him. Gratitude for the woman beside him, whose love had brought light into his life in the darkest of times.

"Thank you, Nila," he said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. "For everything."

Nila reached out, intertwining her fingers with his as she leaned in close, her breath mingling with his in the cool night air. "You don't have to thank me, Shubman," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As they sat by the pool, the soft glow of the moonlight casting a romantic aura around them, Shubman felt a surge of nostalgia wash over him. He looked at Nila, her features illuminated by the gentle light, and couldn't help but be reminded of the first time he had laid eyes on her, all those years ago.

"I remember the first time I saw you," he began, his voice tinged with fondness as he recalled the memory. "It was about four or five years ago, on the film set when Virat had taken me to visit Anushka."

Nila's eyes widened in surprise, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. "I remember that day," she replied, her voice filled with warmth. "You and Virat were quite the dynamic duo."

Shubman chuckled at the memory, the image of himself and Virat causing mischief on the film set flashing through his mind. "Yeah, we definitely caused quite a stir," he admitted, his tone laced with amusement.

"But then I saw you," he continued, his gaze locking with Nila's as he spoke. "You were so focused, so passionate about your work. I remember thinking to myself, 'Who is this girl?'"

Nila's cheeks flushed pink at his words, a shy smile playing at her lips. "And what did you think?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shubman's heart skipped a beat at the memory, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "I thought you were the most beautiful woman I had ever seen," he confessed, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I couldn't take my eyes off you."

Nila's breath caught in her throat at his words, her heart swelling with emotion. "I had no idea," she murmured, her eyes shining with love.

Shubman reached out, gently cupping her face in his hands as he leaned in close. "It's true, Nila," he whispered, his breath mingling with hers in the cool night air. "You've always had a way of captivating me, from the moment I first saw you."

And as they sat there, lost in each other's gaze, surrounded by the soft rustle of leaves and the gentle murmur of the night, Shubman knew that he had found something truly special in Nila—a love that had endured through time and distance, and would continue to burn brightly for eternity.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Nila glanced at her watch, a hint of concern crept into her expression. "We should probably head back to our room," she murmured, her voice tinged with regret. "It's getting late."

Shubman's heart sank at the thought of their time together coming to an end, a pang of longing coursing through him at the prospect of parting ways, even if only for the night. "I know," he replied softly, his voice filled with a sense of reluctance. "But before we go..."

He trailed off, his gaze locking with Nila's as he gathered his courage to speak the words that had been weighing on his heart for so long. 

"Nila, there's something I need to tell you," he began, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "Something I should have said a long time ago."

Nila's eyes widened in surprise, her heart skipping a beat at the intensity in his gaze. "What is it, Shubman?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shubman took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest as he prepared to lay bare his true feelings. "I love you, Nila," he confessed, his voice filled with sincerity. "I've loved you from the moment I met you, and my love for you has only grown stronger with each passing day."

Nila's breath caught in her throat at his words, her eyes brimming with tears of joy. "Shubman," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

Shubman reached out, gently taking her hand in his as he continued to pour his heart out to her. "You mean everything to me, Nila," he said earnestly, his voice filled with conviction. "You're not just my girlfriend or my partner in this crazy charade. You're my everything—the light of my life, the beating of my heart."

Tears spilled from Nila's eyes as she listened to his heartfelt confession, her heart overflowing with love for the man who had stolen her heart. "Oh, Shubman," she murmured, her voice choked with emotion. "I love you too. More than you'll ever know."
Feeling the weight of their emotions hanging heavy in the air, Nila couldn't resist the overwhelming urge to express her love physically. With tears of joy still glistening in her eyes, she wrapped her arms around Shubman's neck, pulling him into a tight embrace.

Shubman's heart swelled with affection as he returned her embrace, holding her close as if he never wanted to let her go. In that moment, they were cocooned in their own little world, the rest of the universe fading into insignificance as they held onto each other.

"I don't ever want to let you go," Nila murmured against his chest, her voice muffled by the fabric of his kurta.

Shubman tightened his grip around her, pressing a tender kiss to the top of her head. "You don't have to," he whispered, his voice filled with a quiet determination. "I'll always be here for you, Nila. Always."

They stayed locked in their embrace for what felt like an eternity, the world around them melting away as they savoured the warmth of each other's presence. And in that moment, they knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together—united by a love that was as boundless as the stars in the sky.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

As Shubman and Nila reluctantly pulled away from their embrace, they shared a knowing look, silently communicating the unspoken promise of forever. With intertwined hands, they made their way back to their room, the soft moonlight guiding their path like a beacon of love.

Upon reaching the door of their room, Shubman turned to Nila with a playful gleam in his eyes, a mischievous smile dancing on his lips. Without a word, he swept her off her feet, lifting her into his arms in a move that caught her completely off guard.

Nila gasped in surprise, her eyes widening in astonishment as she found herself cradled in Shubman's arms like a bride being carried across the threshold. "Shubman!" she exclaimed, her laughter bubbling up like music in the night.

Shubman chuckled at her reaction, the sound filling the air with warmth and joy. "What? A gentleman always carries his lady across the threshold," he teased, his voice tinged with affection.

Nila couldn't help but laugh at his words, her heart swelling with love for the man who had stolen her heart. "You're ridiculous, you know that?" she replied, her voice filled with fondness.

Shubman grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he pushed open the door to their room with his foot. "But you love me anyway," he quipped, his tone playful yet filled with sincerity.

Nila smiled, her heart overflowing with love for the man who had become her everything. "Yes, Shubman," she whispered, her voice soft with emotion. "I love you more than anything in this world."

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:

soups rants!!

the fourth chapter has arrived!

i seriously have no words to explain this
like i just wrote
whatever came to my mind 

so do comment on how this chapter was

but anyway

hope y'all enjoyed it!

- yours truly, supraja