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Aliyah sat alone in the dimly lit living room of her London apartment, her petite frame trembling with fear and anticipation.

Her long brown hair fell over her face as she rested her head in her hands.

Tears hovered on the edge of her lashes, refusing to fall. Her heart was heavy with doubt and fear of the unknown, though her mind repeated a single thought.

Would he stay?

Her fingers twisted nervously in her lap, and every passing second felt like an eternity. She glanced at the clock. Any moment now.

Then, the doorbell rang.

Aliyah flinched, her heart skipping a beat. She quickly wiped her tears, took a deep, steadying breath, and forced herself to stand.

With shaky steps, she made her way to the door. She hesitated for a brief second, then opened it.

Standing before her was her boyfriend of two years, the man she loved more than anything: Patrick James Cummins, the captain of the Australian cricket team. Her Patty.

His tall frame loomed over her, his piercing blue eyes sparkling as soon as he saw her.

His smile lit up the dim hallway, and without hesitation, he stepped forward and wrapped her in a hug.

"Lia, love," he murmured against her hair. "I missed you so much."

But she didn't respond. Her arms stayed by her sides, stiff and unmoving. Pat froze mid-hug, leaning back to look at her, his smile fading.

"Hey, what's wrong?" he asked softly, his brow furrowing with worry. He bent down and kissed her cheek, but she didn't react.

"Baby, talk to me. Please," he urged, his voice laced with concern.

Aliyah felt her throat tighten, but she fought back her tears. "Go sit on the couch," she said quietly, her voice trembling slightly.

Pat's confusion deepened, but he nodded and obeyed. He walked to the couch, his movements slower than usual, as if trying to figure out what was happening.

He sat down and watched her carefully as she closed the door and joined him.

As soon as she sat, he took her hands in his, his thumbs gently caressing the tops of her hands.

"Lia," he said softly, "you're scaring me. What's going on? Are you okay? Are we okay?"

She looked down at their joined hands, trying to find the right words.

Her body trembled, and Pat leaned closer, his worry growing with every second of her silence.

Finally, she took a deep breath and said, "Patty, I need you to promise me something before I tell you anything."

He tilted his head, his blue eyes filled with nothing but love. "Anything. You know I'd do anything for you."

"Promise me you won't leave me after this," she whispered, her voice cracking. Tears threatened to fall again, but she held them back.

Pat immediately placed a hand under her chin, lifting her face to meet his gaze.

"Aliyah, I would never leave you. Ever. Whatever this is, we'll get through it together. I promise."

That was all the reassurance she needed. Taking another deep breath, she let the words spill out before her nerves could stop her.

"I'm pregnant. It's your baby."

The room fell silent.

Pat's hand froze on hers, his lips parting slightly in shock. His blue eyes widened, and for a moment, he didn't say anything.

Aaliyah felt her heart break at his silence.

Her fear clawed its way back to the surface, and she leaned forward, her voice cracking. “Patty, please… it’s yours. I swear it’s yours. I’d never—” 

But before she could finish, Pat hid his face in his hands and let out a shaky breath.

When he looked up again, his eyes were glassy with tears—not of anger, but of overwhelming happiness. 

“Lia…” he whispered, his voice trembling. 

Before she could say another word, he pulled her into a tight embrace, his body shaking with joy.

“You’re pregnant?” he repeated, his tone disbelieving and filled with emotion. 

“Yes,” she whispered against his shoulder, her tears finally falling. “Two months.” 

Pat let out a joyful gasp and pulled back, cupping her face with both hands. His eyes searched hers, and a grin broke out across his face.

“baby, you’ve just made me the happiest man in the world,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. 

She blinked at him, stunned. “You’re… you’re happy?” 

“Happy?” he laughed, tears rolling down his cheeks as he kissed her forehead, her cheeks, her nose. “I’m over the moon! I can’t believe this!” 

“But…” Aliyah hesitated, her voice still uncertain. “What about our parents? They don’t even know about us. What if—” 

“Shh,” Pat interrupted, his thumb brushing away a tear from her cheek.

“We’ll figure it out, together. If we have to tell them, we’ll tell them. If we have to face the world, we will. But I promise you, Lia, I’ll be here every step of the way. I’m ready to take care of you and our baby. If you’ll have me.” 

Her lips trembled as she let out a relieved laugh, nodding quickly. “Of course I will, you idiot!” 

Pat chuckled, wrapping his arms around her again. “Thank you, Love,” he murmured into her hair. “Thank you for giving me this gift.” 

He pulled back just enough to look at her, his hands moving gently to rest on her stomach.

“What month are you?” he asked, his voice still filled with awe.

“Two months,” she said, smiling at his wide-eyed reaction.

“Two months, huh?” he said softly, his eyes sparkling with joy. “There’s a little one in there already?” 

Aaliyah giggled at his amazement. “Yes, there is.” 

Pat grinned, leaning down to press a tender kiss on her belly. “Hey there, little one. I’m your dad. And I’m going to love you so much.” 

Aaliyah’s heart swelled as she watched him, her fears melting away in the warmth of his love.

“You’re going to be the best dad,” she said, her voice filled with awe. 

“And you’re going to be the best mom,” he replied, leaning up to kiss her lips. 

The kiss started slow, soft, and full of love. But as their emotions swirled, it deepened, becoming more passionate.

Pat’s hands slid to her waist, pulling her closer, while Aaliyah wrapped her arms around his neck. 

“I love you,” he whispered against her lips before kissing her again, his voice hoarse with emotion. 

“I love you too,” she replied, her hands tangling in his hair

Then, without warning, he leaned in and kissed her again, this time deeper, pouring all his love and happiness into it.

Aliyah melted into him, her fingers tangling in his hair as he held her close.

When they finally pulled away, Pat rested his forehead against hers, a playful grin on his face.

"You know, love," he murmured, his hands trailing down her sides, "we've still got time before the baby gets in the way. What do you say?"

She arched an eyebrow, her lips curving into a sly smile. "Who am I to say no?"

Pat's grin widened, and he wasted no time. He leaned down and kissed her jawline, her cheeks, her nose-every inch of her face until she squealed and giggled beneath him.

"Patty!" she laughed, trying to push him away.

But he only laughed along, his kisses becoming more fervent as he pinned her gently to the couch.

"Shhh, love," he teased, his voice low and full of desire. "Just let me thank you properly."

The city lights from the window bathed them in a soft glow as their laughter and whispered affections filled the apartment.

In that moment, all the fear and uncertainty melted away, leaving only the love they shared and the new life they were about to welcome into the world.

Shubman woke up to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore and the soft rustle of the wind coming through a balcony.

The morning light poured into the room, far brighter than his own hotel room.

His brows furrowed as he blinked awake, his head feeling heavy from the night before.

He sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes, realizing the bed he was in wasn't his. The sheets were softer, the scent familiar but pleasant.

He glanced around, confused, until he heard a voice from the balcony.

"Oh, so you're awake, Shub," Layla said casually, leaning against the railing, her hair slightly tousled by the wind.

She held a mug of coffee in her hands, looking fresh and relaxed in yellow crop top and shorts.

Shubman's confusion deepened. He groaned softly and laid back on the bed, his hand over his face.

"My head's killing me," he muttered. But then, like a switch flipped, he sat up suddenly, eyes wide with panic. "Wait... What happened last night?"

Layla froze mid-sip, her cheeks flushing slightly as she avoided his gaze.

That only made Shubman's heart sink further. He got up and walked towards her. "Layla... please tell me we didn't..." he trailed off, gesturing between them.

Her lips twitched like she was holding back laughter, but she nodded slightly, her eyes looking embarrassed.

His jaw dropped. His heart sank into his stomach. No, no, no... This wasn't how he wanted things to go with her.

"I... I'm so sorry, Layla. I swear, I didn't mean for anything to happen. I-this is not how I imagined things at all!" he blurted, pacing back and forth with his hands on his head.

"I wanted to get to know you properly, take my time, and-oh God, you must think I'm the worst-"

Layla couldn't hold it in anymore. She burst out laughing, clutching her stomach as she doubled over.

"Oh my God, Shub!" she cried between giggles. "Nothing happened, you idiot!"

Shubman froze mid-pace, turning to her with a bewildered expression. "What?"

"Nothing happened!" she repeated, tears of laughter forming in her eyes.

"We came back from the party, and you passed out first. I just made you sleep on my bed, and I took the couch. That's all!"

He stared at her, his face slowly turning from pale to pink. "You're serious? That's it?"

"Yes!" she said, still laughing. "But you were so funny last night. You kicked me off the bed, and I got so frustrated I just went to sleep on the couch."

Shubman's jaw dropped. "I what?"

Layla wiped her tears, her laughter finally subsiding. "Yep. You starfished across the bed and kicked me off when I tried to move you. Honestly, I gave up after that."

He groaned, his face buried in his hands. "I can't believe I did that. I'm so sorry, Layla. You're too nice to deal with me."

She waved it off, still grinning. "It's fine, Shub. I survived. But watching you panic just now? Totally worth it."

Before he could respond, his phone started ringing somewhere in the room. Both of them froze, glancing around.

"Is that yours or mine?" Layla asked, looking at her own phone lying on the nightstand.

"It's mine," Shubman said, scrambling to find it. He finally spotted it on the dresser and answered the call, recognizing his mother's name on the screen. "Hello, Mumma?"

She smiled and stepped back, giving him privacy as she headed to the bathroom.

He walked out to the balcony, the fresh air clearing his head as he talked to his mother.

"kake, how are you? How's the trip going?" his mother asked, her warm voice carrying through the line.

"I'm good, Mumma," Shubman said, leaning against the railing. "The trip's been... interesting so far."

"Interesting?" she asked curiously. "Aaram kar pa raha haina tu?"

Shubman hesitated for a moment, then smiled to himself. "haan Mumma... suno toh..... I think I found her. Your daughter-in-law."

There was a pause on the other end, followed by a loud clap of excitement. "Really? Are you serious, Shub? Who is she? Tell me everything!"

He chuckled, feeling a blush creep up his neck.

"Not much to tell yet, Mumma. Uska naam Layla hai, and she's... amazing. Beautiful, smart, funny. Aap usse bohot pasand karoge."

His mother practically squealed. "Oh, kake I can't wait to meet her! Tu bas usse jaldi se Mohali leke aaja."

"Mumma, slow down," he said, laughing. "We just met, okay? Let me figure things out first. I'll keep you updated."

"thik hai,puttar" she said, though he could hear the excitement in her voice. "But don't keep me waiting too long. Kudi se mila dena"

"Okay, Mumma," Shubman said softly. "Love you."

"Love you too, beta," she replied before hanging up.

As he put his phone down, Layla emerged from the bathroom, her hair tied up in a messy bun.

She raised an eyebrow at him, an amused smirk on her face.

"So," she said, crossing her arms, "who's this 'daughter-in-law' you were talking about?"

Shubman's face turned beet red. "You... you heard that?"

Layla nodded, her smirk widening. "Oh, I heard it loud and clear. Care to explain, Shub?"

He scratched the back of his neck, avoiding her gaze. "Uh... it's nothing. My mumma was just... you know, being a Mumma."

She burst out laughing again. "Wow. That's adorable. You're already planning my introduction to your family?"

"I didn't say that!" he protested, his face burning with embarrassment.

Layla grinned, clearly enjoying his flustered state. "Relax, Shub. I'm just messing with you."

He sighed in relief, though his heart was still racing. "You're evil, you know that?"

"Yep," she replied with a wink. "So, what's your plan for the day?"

Shubman chuckled despite himself. "Honestly? Just a simple hangout at the beach. Relax, maybe swim a little. Nothing fancy."

Layla tilted her head, considering it. "Hmm. Sounds nice. I think I'll join you."

His heart leapt, though he tried to play it cool. "Yeah? That'd be great."

"Cool," she said with a smile. "I'll meet you there."

As Shubman left to head back to his hotel, Layla noticed something shiny on her nightstand.

Picking it up, she realized it was his Rolex watch. She ran her fingers over the sleek design, smiling to herself. It suits him,she thought.

She mentally noted to return it to him later, though a small part of her enjoyed having a piece of him left behind.

For now, she focused on the excitement of the day ahead-and the growing intrigue she felt toward the man who was quickly becoming much more than just a friend.

The sun shone brightly over Hawaii, painting the sky with hues of yellow as Layla slipped into an orange dress that clung perfectly to her curves.

The color made her tanned skin glow, and the dress swayed lightly with every step she took.

She packed a small bag with sunscreen, a camera, some snacks and a bottle of water, smiling to herself as she zipped it up. 

I hope he’s up for a boat ride, she thought with a grin. 

Meanwhile, in his hotel room, Shubman finished buttoning his blue shirt with leafy patterns, pairing it with navy-blue shorts.

He checked himself in the mirror, adjusting the collar and running a hand through his slightly messy hair.

He looked effortless, but the boyish charm he radiated made him feel ready for the day. 

As he grabbed his phone and wallet, his brows furrowed. His wrist was bare. 

“Wait... where’s my watch?” he muttered, looking around the room. He checked the dresser, the bathroom counter, and even under the bed. But it wasn’t there. 

Layla waited near the beach’s boardwalk, her tote bag hanging from her shoulder, the Hawaiian breeze playing with her hair.

Shubman spotted her from a distance, and his breath hitched slightly. 

She looked radiant in orange, standing out even among the vibrant hues of Hawaii.

He shook his head slightly, forcing himself to focus as he approached her. 

“Hey,” he greeted with a smile. “Ready for a day of sun and water?” 

“Always,” Layla replied, matching his grin. 

Before they headed to the boat rental, he hesitated. “Hey, uh... did I leave my watch in your room last night? I can’t seem to find it.” 

Her heart skipped a beat, but she quickly masked her reaction with an innocent look.

“Your watch? Hmm, I don’t think I’ve seen it. Maybe you left it at the party?” 

Shubman scratched his head, looking puzzled. “Maybe... I’ll check later.” 

Layla bit back a smile. She knew it wasn’t right to lie, but something about keeping the watch felt comforting.

It was a small possession of his, and she didn’t feel ready to give it back just yet. 

They boarded a spacious white boat, its deck shining in the sunlight. It was perfect for the two of them, with just enough space to lounge around comfortably.

She leaned over the side, letting the wind whip her hair back as the boat slowly pulled away from the dock. 

“This is amazing,” she said, turning to him, her smile brighter than the sun. 

“You weren’t kidding about the whole relaxation thing,” he replied, pulling out his phone. “Hold still—I need a picture of this.” 

Layla laughed but struck a pose, her hair blowing in the breeze. “Make sure you get my good side.” 

“Every side’s your good side,” Shubman teased, clicking a picture. 

She rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the blush creeping up her cheeks. “Okay, your turn, Mr. Businessman” 

He smirked but leaned casually against the railing, the ocean behind him sparkling like diamonds. “Alright, but make me look good. No weird angles.” 

“I’ll try my best,” Layla said with mock seriousness, snapping a few pictures. 

They spent a while clicking pictures and soaking in the beauty around them before settling down on the deck, their backs resting against the seats as the boat floated further out to sea. 

“So,” Shubman started, breaking the comfortable silence, “why Hawaii? Why now?” 

She glanced at him, her expression softening. “I needed to get away, to clear my head. Work was exhausting, and... well, there were some personal things I needed to leave behind.” 

“Personal things?” he asked, tilting his head. 

Layla sighed, pulling her knees to her chest. “My ex, Robby. We broke up a few months ago.” 

“Ah,” Shubman said, sitting up a little straighter. “What happened, if you don’t mind me asking?” 

She gave a small, bitter laugh. “Oh, it’s quite the story. Turns out, Robby was cheating on me. With Rachel.” 

He frowned. “Who’s Rachel?” 

“My makeup artist,” Layla replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

“Imagine my surprise when I walked in on them in my dressing room. It was... memorable, to say the least.” 

Shubman’s jaw tightened. “What an idiot. He cheated on you?” 

She shrugged. “People do stupid things. At least I found out early.” 

“Still,” he said, shaking his head, “he must’ve been blind to let you go. You deserve way better than that.” 

She gave him a small smile. “Thanks, Shub. That means a lot.” 

“What about you?” she asked, turning the tables. “Any exes worth mentioning?” 

Shubman rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah, there’s one. Sara.” 

“Sara?” Layla repeated, raising an eyebrow. 

“Yeah,” he said, exhaling. “We dated briefly. She’s a great person, but... it just didn’t feel right. Like, something was missing, you know? I couldn’t see it going anywhere long-term, so we ended things.” 

She nodded, understanding. “At least you were honest about it.” 

“Yeah, but it still sucked,” he admitted. “Hurting someone is never easy, even when you know it’s for the best.” 

They sat in silence for a moment, the gentle rocking of the boat filling the space between them. 

“Well,” Layla said finally, breaking the quiet, “cheers to leaving the past behind, right?” 

Shubman grinned, holding up an imaginary glass. “Cheers.” 

As the boat floated further into the vast ocean, Layla and Shubman found themselves laughing and sharing more stories, their conversations growing deeper and more personal with each passing minute. 

For Layla, it felt easy to open up around him, like he wasn’t just a stranger she’d met a few days ago.

And for Shubman, every word she spoke only made him more certain—there was something undeniably special about her. 

Little did she know, the man sitting beside her wasn’t just “Shub, the Businessman. But the Prince of Indian Cricket.

And little did he know, she was quietly falling for his charm, even if she didn’t realize it yet. 

The boat ride had left Shubman and Layla both famished. The afternoon sun shone warmly, making the water shimmer as they walked along the shore toward a nearby beachside restaurant. 

“kass ke bhook lagi hai yaar,” Layla admitted, holding her stomach dramatically. “If I don’t get food in me soon, I might pass out.” 

Shubman laughed, walking beside her. “Don’t worry, princess. Main hoon na. Hawaiian food never disappoints.” 

She gave him a playful glare. “Princess? Really?” 

He shrugged, smirking. “Well, you are a little high-maintenance.” 

She gasped in mock offense. “Excuse me, Shub! I’m very low-maintenance. I even packed my own snacks for the boat!” 

“jo tumne 10 min me khatam kar diye,” he teased, dodging the light shove she gave his shoulder. 

As they approached the restaurant, a soft giggle caught their attention.

Out of nowhere, a tiny figure with chubby legs and bouncing pigtails came running toward them.

The little girl, no older than three, had rosy cheeks and was dressed in a bright yellow two piece set, that matched her bunny smile. 

“awww, look at that baby,” Shubman said, his eyes lighting up as the baby girl ran straight toward him, her little feet kicking up sand. 

The girl stopped just in front of them, staring up with wide, curious eyes. “Hi!” she squealed, her voice full of excitement. 

He knelt down immediately, his face softening as he smiled at her. “Hi there! What’s your name, cutie?” 

“Aria,” she said proudly, holding up three fingers. “I’m this many!” 

Layla chuckled, watching the adorable scene unfold. Shubman was completely charmed, his playful side on full display.

“Three? No way! You look at least five!” he said, feigning shock. 

Aria giggled, covering her mouth with her tiny hands. “Noooo, I’m three!” 

“Well, you must be the smartest three-year-old I’ve ever met,” he said, tapping her nose lightly, making her laugh. 

Layla stood back, observing with a warm smile. There was something about seeing Shubman with the little girl that made her heart flutter.

He wasn’t just playful—he was gentle and kind, completely at ease. 

“Where’s your mommy or daddy, Aria?” Shubman asked, looking around the beach. 

“Mommy’s over there!” Aria said, pointing toward a woman sitting on a nearby bench, watching them with a smile. 

“Oh, okay, so you just ran away to make new friends, huh?” he teased. 

Aria nodded enthusiastically. “You’re tall! Like a tree!” 

Shubman laughed loud. “A tree, huh? Well, trees like me love making friends with cute little squirrels like you.” 

“I’m not a squirrel!” she giggled, stamping her tiny foot. 

“Oh. Maybe you’re a bunny?” Shubman asked, wiggling his fingers like bunny ears, making Aria laugh even harder. 

“Layla,” He called over his shoulder, grinning. “Come meet my new friend!” 

Layla walked over, crouching down beside him. “Hi, Aria. You’re so cute.” 

Aria tilted her head, studying Layla with a thoughtful expression. “Are you his friend?” she asked innocently, pointing at Shubman. 

Layla smiled, glancing at Shubman. “Yes baby” 

“Best friends,” Shubman added with a wink, making Layla roll her eyes. 

Aria seemed satisfied with the answer, clapping her hands. “Okay! Now we can all play!” 

Shubman laughed. “I like the way you think, Aria. But first, your mommy might want you back.” 

“Okay,” Aria said, her excitement undimmed. She reached out and gave Shubman’s hand a tiny squeeze. “Bye, tree!” 

“Bye, bunny!” he called back as she toddled off toward her mom. 

As they stood up, Layla crossed her arms, tilting her head at him. “That was adorable.” 

Shubman shrugged casually, but there was a faint blush on his cheeks. “What can I say? I’ve got a way with kids.” 

She smiled, walking beside him again. “You really do. You’re good with them.” 

He gave her a sidelong glance, his tone playful but genuine. “Think I’d make a good dad?” 

Layla pretended to think, tapping her chin. “Hmm… maybe. You’d definitely spoil them rotten, though.” 

“Of course. What’s the point of being a dad if you can’t spoil your kids?” Shubman replied with a laugh. 

Layla shook her head, but her smile lingered as they continued walking toward the restaurant.

As they stepped into the restaurant, Shubman held the door open for her, grinning as she walked in.

“Alright, princess, let’s get you fed before you turn into a angry squirrel.” 

Layla laughed, shaking her head. “You’re never letting that go, are you?” 

“Not a chance,” he replied, his grin widening.  

Both of them settled into their seats at the cozy beachside restaurant, the sound of the waves faintly audible in the background.

A waiter handed them menus, and both of them immediately started scanning the options. 

“Alright,” Layla said, flipping through the menu. “What are you thinking of ordering?” 

Shubman didn’t look up, his eyes glued to the menu. “I’m leaning toward the Hawaiian BBQ platter. You can’t come to Hawaii and not have BBQ.” 

She raised an eyebrow. “BBQ? Really? That’s so basic. Look at this—grilled mahi-mahi with a tropical fruit salsa. That’s what I’m getting.” 

He glanced up at her. “Grilled fish? Come on, that’s broing. Go for something hearty. Something with... meat.” 

Layla rolled her eyes. “Not everyone’s obsessed with meat, Shub. [🌚🌚] Some of us appreciate a little sophistication in our food.” 

“Sophistication?” Shubman repeated with mock offense. “What’s sophisticated about a fish covered in fruit? That’s just weird.” 

“Excuse me, it’s gourmet,” Layla shot back, smirking.

“And for the record, you’re the one who said, we should eat healthy. Shouldn’t you be all about the fish and veggies?” 

Shubman retorted. “okay fine, Princess. enjoy your tiny, overpriced fish. I’ll be over here with my actual meal.” 

She laughed, shaking her head. “Fine. Order your BBQ. Let’s see who’s happier when the food comes.” 

“Oh, I’ll definitely be happier,” he replied confidently. 

As they waited for their orders to arrive, Layla leaned back in her chair, her gaze drifting toward the ocean. “Aria was adorable, wasn’t she?” 

Shubman smiled at the mention of the little girl. “Adorable doesn’t even begin to cover it. She was perfect. I love kids, you know?” 

She glanced at him, her curiosity piqued. “You really do, don’t you? You were so happy there” 

He shrugged, a soft smile playing on his lips. “Yeah. There’s something about kids... They’re just so pure. Honest. It’s impossible not to love them.” 

She tilted her head, studying him. “So, I take it you want to be a dad someday?” 

“Absolutely,” Shubman said without hesitation. He leaned forward slightly, his expression earnest.

“What about you? Have you ever thought about being a mom?” 

Layla hesitated, her smile faltering just a little.

“Honestly? No. I mean, I love kids. They’re cute, they’re funny, and I don’t mind playing with them. But being a mom? Giving birth? That’s a whole different story.” 

He frowned slightly, leaning back in his chair. “Why not?” 

She sighed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“Because it’s painful. I’ve read all about it. The whole process of pregnancy, labor, childbirth... It’s terrifying. I’m just being practical, you know? Why would I willingly go through that?” 

Shubman’s expression softened. “It’s painful, yeah. But isn’t the reward worth it? I mean, holding your own baby in your arms, watching them grow up... That’s gotta be the greatest feeling in the world.” 

Layla gave him a small smile, appreciating his perspective but not entirely convinced.

“Maybe for some people. But for me, I don’t know. I’d have to think long and hard about it.” 

He nodded slowly, his gaze thoughtful. “Fair enough. It’s not for everyone. But if you ever changed your mind, I think you’d make an amazing mom.” 

She laughed softly, shaking her head. “You barely know me, Shub. How can you be so sure?” 

“I’ve seen how you are with people,” he replied. “You’re caring, thoughtful, and funny. Plus, you have this way of making people feel comfortable around you. That’s all a kid needs—a mom who loves them.” 

Layla felt her cheeks warm at his words, and she looked away, pretending to be distracted by the ocean. “You’re too sweet, you know that?” 

Shubman grinned. “I get that a lot.” 

Their conversation was interrupted as the waiter returned with their food.

The Hawaiian BBQ platter was set in front of Shubman, the smell of grilled meat and smoky sauces wafting through the air.

Layla’s grilled mahi-mahi arrived on a beautifully plated dish, garnished with colorful tropical fruit salsa. 

“Well,” Layla said, picking up her fork, “let’s see who made the better choice.” 

Shubman smirked, grabbing a forkful of BBQ. “Prepare to lose, princess.” 

As they dug into their food, Layla couldn’t help but sneak glances at Shubman.

His easygoing nature, his love for kids, and the way he spoke so passionately about fatherhood—there was something undeniably warm about him. 

And for Shubman, every laugh, every playful retort, and every thoughtful answer Layla gave only made him more certain that he wanted to know everything about her. 

Even if she didn’t realize it yet, she was slowly becoming the center of his Hawaiian adventure—and maybe even more than that.

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All rights guys
This was the 8th chapter of the book.

So, how did you like Pat's surprise? Istg, I really love him. Idc if you call me a desh drohi.

How are their families gonna react??

Alsooo him and Aliyah are gonna have a baby together! Her point of story was a suspense.
Oh also, she's the female face claim for Aliyah:

Andddd, what did you think of Shubman and Layla in this chapter? Nice, na?

Im so so excited, to include pregnancy in this book. It's a beautiful process and pregnant women deserve all the comfort and love during this!

Alsoo, Shubman as a dad? I lowkey do want him to see that side of his.

Back to the topic, how was it?
Any guesses about the next one?

Please hit that star button. It means a lot to me! Comments are appreciated!

Till then,
With love
Yours author 🌞