Hello, I hope you remember me. *chuckles nervously*

No, this is not a draft posted by some silly mistake like the other times. IT IS AN ACTUAL UPDATE.

First of all, I know even a hundred apologies are not enough for just disappearing randomly, not replying to your messages and delaying the update for so long. So, here I am with a very long one that intends to make you happy.

Go on...

P.s.- Kindly ignore the typos (if any). Might have overlooked them.

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Naina laid on the bed with her eyes and head burning due to fever. She was struggling to open her eyes properly when she saw a blurry image of someone and heard a familiar voice.

"Hey bhagwan...kya kare hum...iska sahi hai...beemar padke let jaati hai...itna kharcha aur ho jata hai bina matlab ka..." The woman said in a disgusted voice.

'Mummy?' Naina didn't know how she came here. Her mind was puzzled when she heard another voice.

"Dheere bolo...Sun legi." The man beside her said.

"Toh sunne de na...yeh toh chali jaayegi ek din...tab bhi humein hi dena hai...yeh kounsa kuch laayegi humare liye..." She said to her husband who nodded.

Naina didn't know what was happening. They were looking at her with loath in their eyes.

"Sahi keh rahi ho...isse acha toh beta hi hota ek...kuch lata toh humara liye kam se kam...pata nahi kounsi ghadi mein paida kiya tumne isey..." Tears were brimming in her eyes as she saw her own father saying such nasty things about her. Why did she have to born into this family? In this world?

Just then, her surroundings began to fade away taking her mother and father. She wanted to call them back to say that she was their own child, to say not to hate her but she found her limbs frozen. The next second, she felt the warmth of someone's hand on her cheek. She saw the familiar pair of eyes staring right down at hers with a warm smile on his face.

"Sameer?" His name came out as a whisper.

He softly ran the pad of this thumb over her cheekbones making her delve deeper into the warmth emanating from his touch.

"Main hun Naina. Sab thik hai." He said in a low gentle voice.

A sudden wave of fulfillment passed through her and with that, her eyes closed before she fell into a deep slumber.

Naina still remembered that dream which she had seen two days ago. The next morning she had woken up to find herself in the same room where she had slept. Her hand had involuntarily reached to her left cheek where he had caressed her in that dream. It had felt so real that she could feel the warmth lingering on her skin. But then, her mind began to register what she saw.

Her parents. They used to treat her as a liability even when she used to fall ill. Being physically weak, she never noticed it at that time. But they weren't here now. She was with Sameer, her husband whom she didn't know if she ever deserved. He had taken care of her by being by her side. She couldn't ask for anything else. This was enough.

The whistling of the pressure cooker brought her out from her stupor. She instantly turned the knob of the gas to simmer the flame before going back to prepare for other things for breakfast.

An hour later, Sameer came rushing downstairs buttoning up his sleeves, his blazer hanging on his arm. Taking his seat on the dining table, his gaze fell on her chuckling at something said by Ramdhari, unfazed by his arrival. His brows creased as he saw her so engrossed without acknowledging his presence.

"Good morning Naina." He spoke catching both of their attention.

She turned around and saw him already seated. "Good morning." She greeted with a smile on her face and got back to her task of getting everything ready to serve.

He noticed her freshly showered hair scattering on her back. Tiny drops were still trickling down from the ends making a small portion of her blouse translucent, giving him a slight glimpse of what was underneath to which she seemed oblivious. Just as she turned again, he averted his gaze, not wanting to give a weird impression of himself.

She walked up to him with a tray in her hands, clad in a peach cotton Saree. As she put it in front of him, the strands of her short hair falling on her cheeks caught his eye reminding him of his venture of two days back.

He didn't know why his insides would react differently when it came to Naina. It's not like he had never encountered females in his life. To be with a girl for a few hours is completely opposite to live with a girl and that too when things aren't normal between you two. According to him, everything is going right between them but his manly thoughts are getting out of his hold and why not, it's been years since he had been with someone. The rush of hormones, whenever he is put in any such situation, is what he can't control. He didn't know what had happened to him that night, the next thing he had known was his hand caressing the buttery soft skin of her cheek. There it goes again.

Intending to clear up his mind, he averted his gaze to the tray she had placed on the table. In a second, his eyes lit up seeing his favourite Aloo-Paranthas.

"Wow...pata hai mera bahut dinon se mann kar raha tha paranthe khaane ka..." In excitement, he at once began to tear a bite ignoring that it was extremely hot.

A yelp escaped from his mouth. In a flash, she held his hand, "Sameer kya karte hain aap. Dekhna chahiye tha na garam hai...Dikhaiye jala toh nahi." She checked his palm in concern taking him aback by her reaction.

"It's okay. Kuch bhi nahi hua Naina." His gentle voice brought her out from her stance. Realising her folly, she left his hand immediately mumbling a sorry and quietly took her place on one of the chairs, embarrassment striking her face.

"Ab tum itne ache paranthe banati ho, main haath control hi nahi kar paya." He remarked trying to lighten up the air and took a bite. A winning smile appeared on his face, succeeding in his attempt to replace the embarrassment with a smile on her face.

Ramdhari served her before she began eating. Her insides felt elated as she saw her husband munching on the Paranthas she had cooked for him. To cook his favourite dishes and the smile it would bring up to his face appeased her. She had now almost mastered the skills of cooking and was learning to make his favorite dishes particularly. Don't ask why, because she herself couldn't point out the exact reason. It's just she liked to cook for him.

Breakfast went by with a little exchange of conversation between them. Naina had just put down her spoon and began to stand up when a set of fingers wrapped around her wrist halting her movement. Her gaze snapped to see Sameer watching her with his eyebrows raised, "Baitho waapas."

She was too in a daze to reply and eased down again on her chair. He left her hand and faced Ramdhari, "Sun, ek aur parantha banake le ana. Naina ek aur legi."

"Please nahi. Maine khaa liya hai." She tried to convince him but he had turned a deaf ear to her.

Ramdhari complied with his order and placed the freshly cooked Parantha on her plate.

"Sameer mujhe sach mein bhookh nahi hai." She pulled the last attempt but in vain.

"Acha...kitna khaya tumne?" - He didn't wait for her reply - "Sirf 1 parantha aur sabzi. Itna zara zara sa khaati ho tabhi toh kamzor ho. Fir beemar nahi padna toh chup chap khaao isko." His firm tone shut her pleas.

Naina knew he wasn't going to let it go. It's been two days to her recovery and this was becoming a usual scenario of him prodding her to improve her diet. Ever since Anika had tipped him off about her health, he has become more vigilant about her lifestyle. He had been noticing her eating habits since the beginning and was not at all satisfied. He had inferred that she had been ignorant about herself for a very long time resulting in her weak immunity and therefore, he didn't waver his gaze from her until he saw her tearing the first bite off.

On their way to the office, Sameer spoke, "Kabir ka call aya tha. He has invited us for this sunday. Woh case bataya tha na maine tumhe jo kaafi time se uncle ke under mein tha. He has finally won it. That's why they are having a dinner party. Bhabhi ki tabiyat ki wajah se bahut bada celebration nahi kar rahe hain. Sirf close friends aur relatives hi honge."

She just nodded with an okay before they began to discuss work.

* * * * *

Naina shut her notebook close after another session by the editor-in-chief of the company. She was beginning to wrap her things up when the editor began to speak, "Only 10 days are left for this internship program. I hope aap sabne apne articles ke liye topics decide kar liye honge. Aur agar nahi kiye hain toh jaldi kar lijiye. Your whole internship depends on this article. Choose wisely otherwise you will lose the chance of getting the job as a writer." He stated.

Everyone including her acknowledged either by nodding or saying verbally. She became tense knowing she still hadn't chosen her topic for the article. Her mind was preoccupied as she walked out of the room thinking about what she could choose. She was descending the stairs when Mr. Sahni, the editor in chief of the magazine called out for her, halting her steps.

"Yes, sir." She said.

He gestured her to continue walking and crossed his hands at the back, "Tumne apne assignment ka topic decide kar liya?"

She looked down, "Abhi nahi. But I'll submit it on time."

"It's okay. Abhi tak toh kisine bhi nahi kara. I have read your articles and must say, they are brilliant." He said with appreciation evident in his eyes.

"Thank you." She said passing a polite smile.

"You are married to Sameer Maheshwari right, the CEO of Maheshwari Industries?" He asked out of the blue. She nodded.

"So, what are you doing here, I mean this internship...You are married to a person who is capable of establishing his own publication house, toh tum yahan inn sab ke beech mein kya kar rahi ho? I am sorry, I am just curious." He asked curiously.

She smiled, "It doesn't matter Sir. I am not a professional writer. Writing mera passion hai par abhi bahut kuch hai jo mujhe seekhna hai. I want to prove myself. Jab maine aapke internship program ke baare mein padha toh I thought it would be a good opportunity. Main nahi chahti ki sirf mere surname ki wajah se log mujhe alag nazariye se dekhe. Aise bohot log hain jo mujhse better hain aur iska matlab yeh nahi ki main unki opportunity chheen lun. Mere liye mehnat ka phal hi sab kuch hai. Isiliye main yahan hun."

The loyalty reflecting from her answer instilled him immensely.

He nodded, "Well, I am glad to see ki tum unme se nahi ho jo paiso ke bal par sab kuch karte hain. You know, ek ache writer ki yahi quality hoti hai that he or she should be disciplined with his or her thoughts. Har ek article mein aapki mehnat aur devotion dikhna chahiye. And you do it quite well. That's why I want to talk about something to you."

He paused to wait for her approval to go on and continued when she nodded, "Tum humare internship program ki sabse behtareen intern ho. Humara motto yahi hai ki emerging writers ko sahi platform de jahan unka talent highlight ho sake and you have a knack for it. I would want ki tum humari magazine ke liye articles likho, not just as an intern but as a writer of Ryan Publications. Don't think ki yeh main isliye keh raha hun ki tumhe appoint karke humari popularity badd jayegi. I am saying this because you deserve it. Isiliye apne final assignment ko seriously lena. We wouldn't want to lose such a good writer." He stated.

Her eyes widened in shock. He was indirectly offering her the writer's job for their magazine. It was such a big deal. They had already exited the building while talking and were now standing at the entrance of the gate.

"But sir, main..." She fumbled to choose the right words.

He saw her perplexed state, "It's okay. Internship khatam hone tak toh waise bhi kuch nahi hoga. But do give it a thought...yeh offer tumhare liye rahega." He passed an assuring smile and went inside.

Sameer was waiting for her at the other end of the road in front of the main entrance for the last 15 minutes. He was growing to become impatient as the clock kept ticking to indicate the passing time. He didn't know what was taking her so long when everyone else had already left. His mind became alarmed at the possibility of her being in trouble.

Just as he took out his phone to call her, his gaze caught her emerging out from the building. However, his eyes squinted as he noticed that she wasn't alone. A man in his thirties was walking beside her. They both were engrossed in some serious conversation. Before he knew it, he was out of the car and went on to cross the slightly busy road. By the time he reached, the man had gone inside after passing a smile to her.

She turned around and found him standing there, "Sameer, aap kab aaye?"

"Hey. Main kaafi der se wait kar raha tha." The hint of a smile on her face didn't go unnoticed by him. "Koun tha woh?" He asked tipping his head towards the entrance where Mr. Sahni had gone. She answered, "Woh iss company ki magazine ke editor in chief hai, Mr. Sahni. Aaj humara session tha unke saath."

Gulping down the curiosity to know what they were talking about that she was the last one to leave, he nodded and said, "Chalein?"

She shook her head in approval. They both stood at the side of the road waiting to have a clear way to cross. His protective instincts activated automatically. Placing his palm on her lower back, he guided her across the somewhat busy road being mindful of the upcoming vehicles. Naina's insides went all woozy by his gesture. She somehow carried her feet forward till they reached their car.

Both of them settled down in the car before he ignited the engine. While they were on the heavily busy roads, the image of her talking to that man popped up in his brain all of a sudden. Glancing beside him, he saw her face tilted towards the window, glowing with a faint smile lingering on it. It didn't take him long to recognize that she was happy about something. Realizing that he was prying too much, he tried to take his mind off by tapping his fingers on the steering wheel and focusing on the road.

"Kya keh rahe the woh Mr. Sahni tumse?" The question slipped out of his mouth before he knew it.

His impromptu question broke her reverie. The curve on her lips elongated as she recalled Mr. Sahni's offer, "Unhone mere saare articles padhe aur unhe bahut pasand aaye. Woh kaafi khush hai mere kaam se, taarif bhi kari meri. Woh chahte hain ki main internship ke baad unki magazine ke liye articles likhu, as a writer. It's like a job offer."

He could see the underlying excitement in her tone. She felt happy but something had stirred inside him. His mind wasn't able to mirror the elation she felt and he didn't know why. Wasn't it supposed to be this way in the first place? That she will be offered to become a writer if she successfully finishes her assignment that would mean she would have to resign from her job at the Maheshwari Industries. Was she okay with it?

She noticed the crinkles on his forehead, "Kya hua Sameer? Aap khush nahi hain kya?

"Huh?" Her question brought him out of the daze, "No...I mean aisa nahi hai main khush nahi hun...that's great Naina. Tumne kya socha hai fir?" He asked changing the gears.

"Abhi internship khatam hone se pehle toh waise bhi kuch nahi ho sakta. Filhal mujhe pehle apne assignment pe dhyan dena hai." She replied.

He hummed and pulled over at the driveway in front of the house. Naina tried to examine his expression but couldn't decipher anything in particular except that he didn't seem happy about it. It was hard for her to think of the reason as he had put on a straight face.

In a daze, she walked upstairs to her room and entered the bathroom to freshen up after taking out her clothes for changing. Minutes later, when she came out, the ringtone of her phone was filling up the room. She spread the wet towel on the chair in front of the study table to let it dry and moved towards the bedside table where her phone was lying.

Her eyes lit up as she saw the caller's name and immediately answered it.

"Naina! Kaisi ho tum?" Her excited voice came through the other end.

"Main bilkul thik hun. Tum kaisi ho?" Naina asked with the same elation in her tone.

"Nainaaa...main bata nahi sakti main kitni khush hun. Pandit ke saath itna acha lag raha hai jabse hum ek dusre ke saath thik se time spend kar rahe hain. Woh mujhe dates pe bhi leke gaya. I really like him." Smriti said excitedly. Naina could really imagine her squeezing her eyes as she said that.

"Main bahut khush hun tumhare liye Smriti." She said in a genuine tone.

"Acha mera chhodo, tum batao internship kaisi jaa rahi hai tumhari?" Smriti asked reminding her of the offer and then Sameer's reaction.

"Um...achi jaa rahi hai." Her voice came out a bit lower than usual.

"Ek minute...yeh mari hui awaaz mein kyu bolne lag gayi. Kya baat hai?" Smriti questioned.

Naina sighed and told her about her conversation with Mr. Sahni.

"Wow Naina! Yeh toh itti vaddi khabar hai! Tumhe toh khush hona chahiye naa." Smriti said in delight.

"Main khush hun...par shayad Sameer nahi hai." She said glumly.

"Kyun? Ab unhe kya pareshani ho gayi?" Another question came with a hint of confusion.

"Pata nahi Smriti. Maine jab unhe bataya, woh khush nahi dikh rahe the. Baad mein bhi kuch nahi kaha. Aisa bhi nahi hai ki unhe pata nahi tha ki internship ke baad job mil sakti hai. Fir achanak se aise react kar rahe hain. Kya baat ho sakti hai?" She was worried.

Smriti on the other side had her eyes narrowed as she listened to the whole thing and then spoke after a moment, "Mujhe toh lag raha hai unka mann badal gaya hai."

"Mann badal gaya hai?" Naina mumbled.

"Haan, inn sab bade businessmen ko apni izzat bahut pyaari hoti hai. Mere papa ko hi dekhlo. Ghar mein koi baat idhar ki udhar hote hi Ghar sar pe utha lete hain. Yahi kehte hain ki baahar log mauke dhundte hain jisse market mein baatein failayi jaa sakein. Isse business pe bhi farak padd jata hai. Ho sakta hai Sameer sir ka bhi yahi reason ho. But I am not sure, yeh toh unhe hi pata hoga. Isliye jaake baat karo unse." She reasoned in a gentle tone.

Naina paid attention to her each and every word and tried to grasp the meaning of what she had just told her. Can this be the reason? What if it is? Did he have a change of mind?

"Thik hai. Main baat karti hun unse." She replied.

"Badiya. Aur pareshan hone ki zarurat nahi hai. Kuch aisa waisa bole toh meri baat karwa dena. Smriti Ahuja dikhne mein hi bholi lagti hai bas. Dhang se bata dungi unhe." Her sassy reply made Naina finally chuckle, "Nahi nahi. Zarurat nahi padegi. Yeh toh batao tum wapas kab aanewali ho?"

"Mera toh mann hi nahi hai. Par main zyada din inn logon ko pareshan nahi kar sakti. Isliye jaldi aane ki koshish karungi." Smriti said referring to her school friend's family with whom she was currently staying. Apparently, they had bumped into each other when she was searching for a hotel but on her friend's insistence, she had opted for staying with them given that it's a matter of a few days.

"Okay. Apna Dhyan rakhna. Bahut baatein batani hai tumhe jab tum aaogi." Naina said with a smile.

"Mujhse zyada baatein nahi hongi tumhare paas." The playfulness in her tone made Naina giggle. "Chalo main rakhti hun. Pandit ka call aa raha hai. Take care." Smriti said.

"You too. Bye." Naina replied before the line went dead. Putting her phone down on the table, she pondered over Smriti's words which seemed to be valid at this point. Their business might get affected when people would see that she had left the job at her husband's company for some publishing company.

The wife of a businessman might not be completely involved in the business but she is always in the picture. Whatever she does reflects her husband. She had even observed this at some of those lavish parties they had been in the past. What if it's true? What if he really had a change of mind?

The dinner had gone quietly with a few exchanges of monosyllables here and there. The whole time, her mind was occupied with Smriti's words. Every part of her brain was compelling her to believe them. Moreover, he had left immediately after giving an excuse of office work convincing her. And if he was unhappy because of this reason then she was ready to back off.

Whereas Sameer needed to clear his head off. The shift in her mood due to his foolishness hadn't gone unnoticed by his eyes. Throughout the dinner, she had remained quiet. When they must be celebrating, he had messed it up. And now, he will have to repent for what he did. He went towards her room to talk but was met with silence. He went downstairs looking for her and sighed in relief as he found her sitting on a bench placed by the pool under the ambient moonlight.

On stepping near to her, he noticed her gaze pinned to the ground indicating she was in deep thought. A diary laid open on her lap. He stepped towards her and took his place beside her quietly, "Kya kar rahi ho?"

Her reverie broke, "Uh...kuch nahi bas article hi..." She said incoherently.

His gaze dropped on empty pages of the diary lying open on her lap, "Achha...kaafi kuch likh liya tumne toh." He remarked arching an eyebrow. Her cheeks flushed. She wanted to talk to him but didn't know how to initiate the conversation. She might look calm but he knew her mind was tangled with various thoughts.

He shifted his body such that he was facing her and kept one arm over the backrest of the bench.

"Mujhe tumse kuch baat karni hai."
"Mujhe aapse kuch baat karni hai."

They both said in unison. Naina tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, "Pehle aap boliye."

He shook his head, "Nahi. Pehle tum bolo."

"Nahi. Aap boliye." She said again.

"Maine kaha na tum bolo." He said in a firm tone.

Giving up, she took a deep breath and spoke, "Maine socha hai main...main uss job offer ke liye mana kar dungi."

His eyes widened, "Naina yeh kya bol rahi ho? Yeh suddenly writing chhodne ke liye kyun keh rahi ho?"

Her fingers fidgeted with each other, "Kyuki main jaanti hun aap khush nahi hai uss job offer se aur yeh bhi ki kyun..."

He noticed the nervousness underlining her tone and couldn't comprehend why she was thinking like that. Here he was sitting to clear the things out but she had already formed her own point of view. Therefore, he decided to listen to her first.

"Tumhe aisa kyu laga ki main khush nahi hun?" He asked in a blank tone.

Her gaze dropped down to her lap, "I know agar maine Maheshwari Industries chhodke woh magazine writer ke liye offer accept kiya toh baatein banengi. Afterall, ek writer ki job ki bahut kam importance hoti hai. Isse aapki reputation aur business, dono pe farak padd sakta hai. Aur main nahi chahti ki meri wajah se kuch problem ho. Isiliye agar aap nahi chahte toh main woh offer accept nahi karungi." He kept staring at her as his eyes forgot to blink. What he felt at that moment was pure admiration for this woman who was ready to leave past her dream only for his sake.

"Tum business ke liye apne passion ko chhod dogi?" He asked softly.

It stung to hear it that way but she had to do it. Shutting her eyes close for a moment, she nodded and looked at him, "Writing toh bas meri hobby hai. Mujhe bas thoda experience lena tha aur woh mujhe iss internship se mil gaya. Main khush hun isi mein." Her expression were intending to be normal but her words sounded like she was trying to convince herself more than him. And he knew it.

He scoffed "Kisey samjhane ki koshish kar rahi ho Naina? Mujhe ya khud ko?" The mockery in his eyes downed her gaze. He had noticed the paleness layering her brown eyes and infer how she was saying all that by keeping a big stone on her heart. And so he went for rolling the stone away.

"Tum jaanti ho na mujhe samajh aa jata hai. Nanu humesha kehte the ki humein life mein wahi karna chahiye jisse dil se khushi mile. Tum khud batao, agar tumne mana kar diya toh kya tum sach mein khush rahogi?"

Her downcast eyes conveyed the answer he was expecting. She is ready to give up her career for him and for what? His prestige. The entire scene rose an unknown warmth in his heart. He didn't know what had led her to come up with this decision but right now he needed to fix this.

Shifting a few inches close, he gently took her hand in his. Her eyes automatically shot up to him. Unstirred by her reaction, he continued, "Tumne yeh nahi socha ki agar mujhe problem hoti toh main kabhi tumhe inn sabke liye bolta hi nahi?" He raised his eyebrows in question that left her speechless. Why didn't she think of it?

Her zipped mouth pushed him to continue, "Apne dream ko sacrifice mat karo Naina woh bhi sirf baki logon ki wajah se. Bolne do na unhe jo bolna hai. This is your life. Tum jo chahe woh kar sakti ho. Duniya ka kaam hai bolegi hi, tumne hi bola tha na uss din. Woh log isiliye bolenge kyuki woh tumse jealous feel karenge. Tum smart ho, intelligent ho, aur sabse badi baat, tumne sab kuch chhodke apne dream ke baare mein socha. Jab tum ek badi writer bann jaaogi na tab dekhna sab kaise tumhare aage peeche ghumenge. Inn sabse tumhe apna moral down karne ki zarurat nahi hai. Okay?" He tightened his hold to provide the assurance she needed. She nodded in response accompanied by a soft smile.

"Toh fir aap gussa kyu the jab maine aapko bataya tha?" She asked.

A shadow of nervousness fell on his face but he concealed it, "Ek CEO ki one of the best employee company chhodegi toh pareshani toh hogi hi na. I am sorry agar tumhe aisa laga ki main khush nahi hun. Tumne jab woh news mujhe sunayi, main thoda pareshan ho gaya because humein tumhare baad dusre Financial Accountant ke liye application notice release karna hoga. Inn sab arrangements mein bhi toh time lagega..." His words didn't sound convincing enough.

Her brows furrowed, "Sach bataiye Sameer, pakka sirf yahi baat thi?"

He couldn't hide it anymore. The fact that she'd have to leave the company didn't settle well with him.

He sighed and shook his head, "Tumne bahut help kari hai company ko iss position tak laane mein, fir chahe woh kisi deal se related chhota sa suggestion ho ya fir accountancy ho. Tumhari jagah jo bhi aayega, pata nahi kaisa ho. Isiliye main thoda pareshan tha." His voice lowered at the end. "But please ab tum firse writing chhodne ke liye mat bolna. Mujhe koi problem nahi hai" He added hurriedly.

She sat still at her place, not believing that he considered her so important for the company when she hadn't even done anything major. He had a big misconception if he thought so and she wanted to clear it that even if she leaves, it will be the same.

Her other hand closed over their entwined ones. She looked into his eyes before saying, "Aap aisa mat sochiye ki meri wajah se kuch hua hai. Main sirf ek employee hu Sameer. Aaj company ki jo position hai, woh sirf aapke hard work aur intelligence ke wajah se hai. Agar aap sab kuch thik se manage nahi karte toh kya hum yahan tak pohochte? Nahi. Main business ke baare mein zyada kuch nahi jaanti. But aap ek baat jaan lijiye, chahe main company mein rahun ya na rahun, main humesha aapke decisions mein aapka saath dungi. Jab bhi aapko meri help ki zarurat hogi, main humesha tayar rahungi."

There was newfound confidence radiating from her words which were enough to put him at peace.

"Thank you." He said with a smile which she reciprocated, "Yeh toh mujhe kehna chahiye. Aap itna saath de rahe hain mera. Aur main itna toh kar hi sakti hun na. Woh company humari hai, sirf aapki nahi."

Their hands hadn't separated throughout the whole time. The tranquility of the moment was entrancing. So much that their eyes were refusing to leave one another. His mind went back to the night when he had touched her cheek. The same itchiness made a come back in his palm to recreate the moment. He had almost raised his fingers when the ping from his mobile phone broke their trance. He was the first one to remove his hands. Taking out his phone, he checked for the notification, "Ek minute."

He muttered in her direction and stood up to call someone. She shifted her attention to the diary thinking of a good topic. Her gaze automatically lifted to see him when she heard his voice. He was walking by the railing talking to someone related to work. Although he looked calm and composed, she could tell that he wasn't by looking at his tensed back.

She had always seen him like this when it comes to work, rigid and focused. Others might mistake it for his cold behavior but she knows how dedicated he is towards his work. It won't be wrong to compare him with a coconut. The world sees him as a strict and hard person but there is a tender and caring side too that only a limited number of people have witnessed. And she is one of them.

Her mind went down in memory lane when she had met him for the first time. That day, he was wearing a light grey suit. She was sitting outside the interview room, anxiously waiting for her turn alongwith three others. She had begun to check her documents for the umpteenth time to see if she had forgotten anything when a solid voice caught her ears. Her gaze had shifted in its direction, directly falling on the owner of it. He was dressed in a light grey suit, busy talking to the one walking beside him, near to his age. His persona reflected power. Not only his personality was attractive, but his physique also had the capability to make any girl go weak on her knees. His silky hair neither short nor too long waved as the wind flew past him.

As he walked towards the interview room, his gaze had involuntarily fallen on her. Their eyes had just met for a minuscule of a second but the impact was intense before his averted and hers downcast. That was the day when she had actually met him in person, Sameer Maheshwari, the CEO of Maheshwari Industries.

As she recalled, the emotions she had experienced for the first time after seeing him were still fresh. She had totally attributed the racing heartbeat, the slightest fluttering inside her system, her eyelashes downcast the moment they met his to the nervousness before the interview. But now, as she thinks about it, she realized the reason wasn't her anxiety. If that was what they say to develop a crush on someone, then it was almost right to say that she had developed one on him too.

There was no more turning back to the fact that she was falling for him, faster and harder. Shivers ran down her spine when she found that she was not feeling as apprehensive as she was before. The feeling was heavenly like a soft breeze flowing on a starry night.

Her thoughts were put on hold as he plopped back beside her, "Sona nahi hai?"

She just nodded still in a daze and they both made their way back inside to call it a night.

* * * * *

As per the direction of Sameer, Aarav had released the hiring notice for the Financial Accountant's post with all the necessary details. Since the new Financial Accountant was required to be appointed within a week, it had been finalized that this time, instead of the hiring manager, it would be Sameer himself to shortlist the candidates for the interview process alongwith requisite assistance from Naina.

Next day, after wrapping up from the office and the internship session, they both had returned home only for readying themselves before leaving again for the dinner party. Not having left with ample time, she chose whatever came in her hand. It was a decent-looking Teal Blue saree having a thin golden border being paired with a quarter-sleeved matching blouse. She had opted for a Golden pendant with matching earrings and Bangles intending to keep it simple. Her eyes were lined with Black Kohl, the Mangalsutra, and Sindoor completing her look.

Sameer had decided to go for a black suit pairing it up with a grey shirt. The dark grey tie he had chosen was complementing his handsome look. They both got out of the car and walked over the entrance. He tipped his head towards the door signalling her to proceed to which she nodded and clutched his left arm by looping her right one around it to get ready for another night of feigning a perfect couple image.

Just as Kabir had said, only a limited number of people had been invited including some family friends and relatives. The setting wasn't much flashy for a party but wasn't dull either. They both spotted Mr. Singhania talking to someone familiar and walked towards him to greet him. The happiness was evident in his eyes as soon as he saw them. Both of them congratulated him for his success before handing him the bouquet they had brought for him. He felt elated and blessed them before turning to introduce the man near to his age standing beside him.

"Sameer, Naina, this is Mr. Vinay Irani. Kaafi saalon se Inka export ka business hai and humare kaafi ache dost hain. Vinay yeh Sameer hai, Maheshwari Industries ke owner and this is Naina, his better half." Mr. Singhania introduced them. Sameer in return shook hands with him while Naina just greeted him politely by joining her hands.

"Sameer Maheshwari ko koun nahi jaanta. To be honest, you have really impressed me by your immense dedication and hard work. Iss age mein itna bada business akele handle karna is not a small deal. Tum prove kar rahe ho ki tum Jaiprakash ji ke hi naati ho." Mr. Irani said with the utmost appreciation.

"Aap jaante hain Nanu ko?" Sameer questioned.

Mr. Irani nodded, "Bhyi business mein hote huye unhe koun nahi jaanta hoga...Main khud unse kaafi baar mila hun. Such a great person he was." Mr. Irani shook his head as he sighed in remorse.

Sameer looked down not wanting to let himself overpowered by his emotions. As if she could read his thoughts, she placed her left palm on his arm and gave it a gentle squeeze to provide him reassurance. His gaze lifted to see her reassuring smile which was enough to compose himself. This little exchange didn't go unnoticed by Anika and Kabir who were standing a distance, waiting for them as they didn't want to intervene.

Mr. Irani realised what he has done, "I am sorry for your loss beta. Tumhare Nanaji bahut nek insaan the. I know he how hard must everything for you. But trust me, Jahan bhi woh hain, he is very proud of you. Plus you have got such a supportive wife by your side. Everything will be fine for sure." He said patting his shoulder. Sameer glanced at Naina whose eyes were already trained at him. He faced Mr. Irani and nodded with a tight-lipped smile. Mr. Irani asked about work which he answered with a confident stupor making everyone relieved that he was back to normal.

The conversation might have continued if not for the lady who came by Mr. Irani's side. At a glance, it could be inferred she was his wife. After a delightful exchange of pleasantries, she remarked, "You two really look so good with each other."

They both glanced at each other rather awkwardly but maintained their stance not intending to raise any suspicion, "Thank you." They both said in unison.

Mrs. Irani smiled and then mumbled something in his husband's ears before excusing themselves. Mr. Singhania turned to them, "Well, you go and enjoy the party. Kabir aur Anika bhi kaafi time se tumhara wait kar rahe hain." Having said that, he too left to have a talk with others.

"Aap thik hai na?" She asked once they were left alone.

He smiled at her and nodded.

"Naina!" A voice exclaimed from the side. Anika came with Kabir on her heels carrying a camera in his hand.

She pulled her in a hug, "Kaisi ho ab tum? Sameer, tum thik se dhyan toh rakh rahe ho na iska?" She asked playfully as both the men withdrew apart from a brotherly hug.

"Of course, Bhabhi. Kisi ko toh rakhna padega na. Yeh toh dhyan rakhti nahi hai bilkul bhi apna." Sameer played along taking the other two by surprise. Kabir knew about Anika's trick but was taken aback by Sameer's answer. The changes in their relationship were clearly evident from the last time they had visited. Naina slightly pouted in disapproval but chose to stay silent.

"Hmm...that's good." Anika raised her brows in appreciation. Kabir greeted Naina before saying, "Ab aap deviyaan baatein kijiye, hum zara apne dost ko le jaa rahe hain." He said to Anika and Naina who chuckled at his perky way. He turned facing Sameer, "Chal main tujhe dad ke aur friends se milwata hun." Sameer glanced once at Naina before nodding in approval and left with him.

Anika watched Naina's eyes following Sameer till he disappeared in the lawn.

"Kaafi handsome hai na?" Anika whispered near Naina's ear.

"Haan." Came her prompt reply in a daze but instantly came back to reality as Anika giggled seeing the pink hue blossoming on Naina's cheeks.

"Tumhari tabiyat kaisi hai aur baby kaisa hai? Sorry main pichli baar kuch puch nahi paayi." Naina spoke once Anika's giggles subsided.

"I am absolutely fine and yeh junior bhi." Anika smiled looking down at her belly. Naina smiled at the scene. Bending down a little, she whispered, "Chachi wait kar rahi hai aapka."

Anika chuckled, "Chalo main tumhe sabse milwati hun." Grabbing Naina's arm, she begin to walk towards the living area where all the ladies had gathered to chit-chat.

Kabir and Sameer took a stroll around with the former introducing the latter to the other guests. Most of the discussions were brief including the introduction and about work. A few minutes later, Kabir patted his shoulder and said, "Chal, thodi der baithke baat karte hain." Sameer sighed and nodded.

The makeshift bar for drinks and other stuff for the gents had been set out in the lawn outside the living room. Both the men took their seats from where they had access to their wives who were busy talking to other ladies.

Sameer's gaze fell on Naina who was busy talking to a kid sitting on her lap. He looked nearly three years old discerning from the way he was animatedly talking to her. She looked so happy that an instant smile crept on his face.

This didn't go unseen by the other man watching his best friend busy staring at his wife.

"Bhai, kitna dekhega. Roz rehti hai tere saath." Kabir teased breaking his trance.

Getting his attention back to his drunk, Sameer muttered, "Chup reh."

"So, kaisa chal raha hai sab kuch. I mean Business wagarah aur....Naina ke saath..." Kabir trailed off deliberately.

Sameer took a sip, "Business toh thik hi chal raha hai. Abhi sab kuch track pe hai."

"Aur Naina ke saath? I mean you are getting along pretty well now." Kabir said.

Sameer nodded, "I know...Kafi achi understanding ho gayi hai humari. Achhe doston ki tarah hain hum ab."

Kabir looked at him in disbelief, "Dost? Really? I hope yeh dosti sirf dosti na banke reh jaaye..." He let out in a sarcastic tone.

Sameer frowned, "Humne decide kiya tha ki chhote chhote steps leke aage badenge. Toh sab thik hai uss hisab se."

Kabir snickered.

"What? Isme hasne wali kya baat thi?" Sameer pulled one of his eyebrows up.

Kabir shook his head, "Nothing. I can't believe tu yeh bol raha hai jo kisi relationship se pehle kuch sochta bhi nahi tha, jo kuch saal pehle tak apne jaadu se ladkiyon ko apne vash mein kar leta tha. It's been four freakin months since you got married. Shaadishuda rehke bhi Brahmachari banke rehna hai kya?"

"Tu pagal hai kya...kuch bhi bol raha hai." Sameer chided, "Aisa kuch nahi hoga. It was nothing but a distraction. Woh ladkiyan mere liye important nahi thi." He stated firmly.

Kabir grinned with a mischievous gaze, "Matlab Naina hai?"

Sameer wanted to smash his face but his question stopped him from doing so. He pondered over before taking a sip and placing the glass back down, "Naina ek bahut achi companion hai. Woh ladkiyan mostly mere paison ki wajah se mujhe importance deti thi but Naina mein maine aisa kuch dekha hi nahi. Uske jitni selfless ladki maine aaj tak nahi dekhi."

He sighed looking at her, "Main bas itna chahta hun ki jo khushiyan, jo moments usne apni life mein miss kiye hain, woh usey milein. She deserves at least that much. Aakhir woh bhi toh humesha rehti hai na mujhe support karne ke liye. Baki ka baad mein dekhenge." Kabir was stunned by the progress of his thoughts. A few months back, he was sitting in front of him, totally distant and uncertain, questioning if he could trust her.

He knew his friend had issues with marriage and love but life can't work without them or at least without the latter. But he also knew that making him understand about that would be like talking to a brick wall. He couldn't help but wish for his best friend to get rid of his past issues. And somewhere, he was convinced that it would be none other than Naina to help him out. Moreover, some things should be left on time. It will automatically fit everything into place.

"Sab thik hi hoga yaar. Naina sach mein achi ladki hai. Woh har week Anika ki health ke baare mein puchne ke liye call karti hai. Ek din maine hi utha liya tha. Tujhe pata hai na humne kuch bhi plan nahi kara tha, but Anika ne jab mujhe yeh news di, I was happy but still doubtful. Kya hoga kaise hoga...par main usey dukhi nahi karna chahta tha. Uss din Naina Bhabhi ne mujhse baat kari, mujhe kaafi kuch samjhaya. Aur fir mujhe realise hua ki life mein jo bhi milta hai, sabke peeche ek reason hota hai. Shayad humari life mein yeh khushi likhi hui thi. Isiliye ab main koi mauka nahi chhodne wala isey celebrate karne ka." He flashed a dazzling smile which reflected the happiness he was feeling within.

In a way, Kabir was right. Everything happens for a reason. Kabir's appraisal for Naina's considerate and compassionate nature didn't surprise Sameer as he had already so much of it. Yet, he couldn't help but feel admiration for her.

The two men continued with their chitter-chatter over drinks shifting from one topic to another, failing the preconception that only women can gossip.

The evening was going by pretty well for Naina. Unlike the Mathur's Anniversary parties, the ladies here were much more welcoming and humble. It didn't take her much time to get accustomed to them. She was taking part in conversations even though she wasn't saying much. Plus, the three-year-old kid named Ansh had become an instant fond of hers. He was the son of one of Kabir's cousins and was too adorable. Even his constant blabbering about here and there wasn't bothersome.

"Tum kya karti ho Naina?" One of the ladies in her fifties asked. Anika had introduced her as Mrs. Irani who ought to be the co-owner of the export company belonging to her husband.

"Main Maheshwari Industries mein Financial accountant hun aur abhi ek Publication house se Writing internship bhi kar rahi hun," Naina answered calmly.

Mrs. Irani's eyebrows raised in surprise, "Writing...Very impressive. Maine pehli baar aisa kuch suna hai. Tum writer banna chahti ho?" She asked.

Naina nodded, "Main humesha se writer banna chahti thi."

Mrs. Irani nodded, "That's great." She sent an appreciative smile towards her.

"Toh tum job ke saath saath writing pe bhi dhyan de rahi ho?" Ruhani, Ansh's mother asked as she adjusted his rumpled clothes caused by his constant budging even if sitting at one place.

Naina nodded.

"Sameer ne allow kar diya tumhe?" She asked curiously. Naina was taken aback for a moment.

"Umm...haan. Actually, unhone hi mujhe writing internship join karne ke liye encourage kara tha." The gratitude for her husband spoke.

"Wow...tum toh bahut lucky ho...aur yahan dekho. Husband aur unki family ke chakkar mein apne sapne hi bhulne padd jate hain - Ansh baby thik se baitho." Ruhani began to adjust his position while Naina just kept staring at her in confusion, "Kya matlab hai aapka?"

Ruhani's face fell a little, "Please aap kisi ko batana mat. Mera humesha se hi Art and Design mein interest tha. Maine share bhi kiya tha inse but koi khaas response hi nahi mila. Humesha keh dete the ki Mummy ki tabiyat thik nahi rehti, unka dhyan rakhna zyada zaruri hai. Uske baad Ansh ke hone ka time aa gaya aur maine maan liya ki ab kuch karke koi fayda nahi hai." She concluded and showed her artwork to Naina on her phone.

Naina was speechless. The fact that there was still such patriarchal thinking prevailing in today's so-called modern world saddened her.

"Sameer ne bina kisi chiz pe dhyan diye tumhare passion ko support kiya hai jo sabke luck mein nahi hota. Woh chahte toh bol sakte the ki tum unki company mein dhyan do. Businessmen ke liye apni reputation bahut important hoti hai but tab bhi he encouraged you. Tum bahut lucky ho Naina." Ruhani ended speaking.

Naina reckoned she was right. Sameer never made her feel inferior about following her dream. Instead, he always motivated her just like the other night and even patiently listened to her whenever she'd talk about her classes to him. Her gaze involuntarily veered to him sitting outside busy talking to Kabir. Warmth filled inside her chest, her eyes radiating reverence for the man in her line of vision, "Haan... hun toh." She said out with all the affection she felt for her husband at that moment.

And that was when she realised what she was going to write for her final assessment article. Several things are required to be cleared in this society. These trivial matters create a big difference in our lives. There are many husbands out there who despise the idea of their wives working according to their will. She will dedicate her first article to hers without whom she won't be chasing her dream.

'Behind every successful man, there is a woman.'- The saying is quite popular among people but the reverse can also be true. There can be a man behind every woman's success, to provide his support and motivation.

Her line of thought broke as Mrs. Singhania announced the outset of dinner.

The sitting arrangement for everyone had been done in the backyard. The servants had begun to serve everything on the large dining table. Sameer and Kabir had been joined by Mr. Singhania and Mr. Irani a little while ago. They were currently involved in discussing their business companies with Mr. Irani advising Sameer about various tactics of the marketing world. Soon enough, the ladies had joined them taking place besides their respective partners. Dinner had been quite an affair as Mr. Singhania had raised a toast with regard to his achievement and thanking everyone who put their contribution in this case including Kabir.

Afterwards, on continuous persuasion of Kabir, everyone had gathered for a photo session.

Ruhani had left Ansh free while she posed with her husband. The little toddler began to tiptoe towards the bushes. Sameer saw him, "Arey arey, aap kahan chal diye..." He caught his hold just in time preventing him from falling. Raising him in his arms, he walked beside Naina who smiled looking at Ansh. The minute he saw her, he became excited and wiggled his hands in the air. While his parents were getting clicked, Sameer kept entertaining him by making weird faces erupting fits of giggles from the three year old who was busy playing with his black tie, the glossy satin material fascinating him. Naina's lips curved up as she saw the two of them enjoying in their own bubble. She had never seen him with kids and that too bonding with them so readily.

Kabir turned towards the three of them and pulled up the camera to click them as the sight was quite adorable. Ruhani walked over to take her son from his hands. Sameer carefully handed him to his mother but in the process, Ansh tucked at his tie causing it to loosen. Without a mirror, he wasn't able to adjust it in place. Naina noticed and before she knew, she stepped closer in front of him.

She could feel his deep gaze as her slender fingers reached for the knot, sending chills down her spine. Sameer's condition was no less. Her proximity was doing something to him. The familiar jasmine scent hit his nostrils, meddling with his senses like everytime. Her face was close enough to let him note all the minute details. The flawless skin of her cheeks glowed under the bright golden fairy lights. Her almond-shaped brown orbs were lined with kohl, currently focused on his tie. He let his gaze trail down over her cute button-shaped nose and then fell on her plump lips coated with a light shade of pink. Out of nowhere, a few strands of her hair dropped down on her left cheek seizing his attention from his point of focus.

He could feel every second passing by as time seemed to have slow down. He was no longer paying attention to how Kabir was convincing his mother and father to stand in a better pose or how Ruhani was complaining to her husband about Ansh or how others were engaged in conversation with one another.

His hand lifted on its own accord and made its way towards those dangling pieces of hair. In a very smooth and gentle motion, he tucked them behind her ear leaving a feathery trail of the tips of his fingers on her skin in the process. The second he did, her body stiffened, hands freezing on his tie. Her gaze shot up to meet his intense ones. His fingers were still lingering over her earlobe, brushing lightly over the wisps of her hair. The pad of his thumb grazed her cheek ever so slowly as if he had the whole time to himself. Her skin tingled by the contact. A mystic aura had enveloped them detaching them from their surroundings. Their gazes were refusing to tear themselves from each other.

The sound of the click of a camera pulled them out from their moment. She instantly stepped back to maintain some distance while he withdrew his hand away, a sigh escaping from his mouth. They both turned to see Kabir standing with a victorious grin on his face as he lowered down the camera to see the snap of the perfect moment he had captured. 

"Puri party mein bas tum log hi reh gaye ho. Chalo ab badiya sa pose do dono." He said raising the camera in front of his eyes.

Both of them stood beside each other avoiding any touch. Awkwardness was clearly apparent. Kabir again peeked from behind and said pouring a bucket full of sarcasm in his tone, "Waah, kitne ache padosi hain...Hai na Anika?"

Anika chuckled standing by his side whereas the other two frowned at his words.

"Kya bol raha hai?" Sameer asked in an irked tone.

Kabir straightened from his cameraman stance making a face, "Aur kya bolu? Biwi ke saath koi aise khada hota hai kya? Dhang se khade ho na, thoda paas..." He gestured by bringing the palms of his hands close to each other.

Without looking at her, Sameer slipped his right hand around her waist, pulling her a little to his side, "Ab thik hai?" He asked in a normal tone.

"Mast!" Wasting no time, Kabir captured them doubting that his best friend might change his mind.

Naina's mind had gone blank with all that was happening. His musky cologne was making her senses go into a frenzy. She smiled at the camera while her mind was buzzing with a million thoughts. If not because of the people's gaze on them, he would have never done that, right? She could make it from his normal stance. Only if she knew what amount of restraint he was putting in to keep his original reaction disguised from everyone.

Kabir clicked them in a few more poses before they were ready to leave. Ultimately, The party ended on a good note.

The car ride was silent as both of them were engrossed reminiscing the happenings of the evening. Her cheeks redden every time she replayed that particular moment in her mind. The minute she closed the door of her room behind her after bidding him good night, she placed her palm on her heart to feel how it was racing at the rate of a mile per minute.

Taking deep breaths, she moved in front of the mirror to free herself from what people say to be six yards of elegance but right now seeming six yards of annoyance after wearing it for a whole day. She turned sideways and tried to unpin her pallu by craning her neck towards her shoulder but the pin didn't stir. It was in the backside due to which she was unable to get a better look. Several attempts later, she gave up as her muscles began to hurt. There was no other way to open it. 

What would she do now?

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Pheww...that was quite long. This chapter literally took a lot of effort since it wasn't coming up to the mark but now here it is. I hope you liked it and it's fine even if you didn't.

Do tell me your reviews, be them positive or negative.

I know I had been a little careless about updating and I am really sorry for that, but we all would agree that this pandemic has taken a toll on everyone of us. The online classes and loads of assignments are a headache, plus it's the last semester of my graduation which means I have to take care of other things too given the uncertainty of the future scenario. Managing everything gets a little out of hand sometimes. This doesn't mean I will be delaying the updates unnecessarily. This is just me ranting about how bad I want everything to get back to normal.

Thank you for reading it patiently (if you did).

Lots of love, Sim❣