TWELVE

HIS POV

"Isha… Isha Tiwari hai ladki ka naam," he said with a smirk, his voice deliberate, laced with something that made my heart skip a beat.

I came to a sudden halt, my foot frozen mid-step as if the weight of his words had physically pulled me back.

For a moment, the world blurred around me—I just stood there, motionless, processing what I’d just heard.

Then, slowly, almost reluctantly, I turned around.

And there he was—Dadu—leaning ever so casually against the couch, arms folded, that all-too-familiar smirk dancing on his lips. The same smirk that always meant he knew far more than he was letting on.

Something about that expression made my blood simmer. My fists clenched at my sides, and my jaw locked tight, the tension running from my temples to my teeth. I could feel the anger creeping in, that slow burn that starts my chest and makes its way up,

He didn't say another word. He didn't have to. That look-smug, knowing, playful-it was enough to light a fire in me.

I shook my head slightly, not because I was disagreeing, but because if I stayed there a second longer, I might actually say something I'd regret.

So, I did the only thing I could. I turned on my heel and stormed off, each step heavier than the last ,he was still watching. I didn't look back.

As soon as I entered my room, I slammed the door shut behind me, the loud thud echoing off the walls like the exclamation mark to everything I was feeling.

I closed my eyes tightly, as if shutting them could block out the chaos spinning in my head.

My hands curled into fists as I looked around, and in the next second... I snapped.

In a sudden wave of rage, I grabbed the glass vase on my table and hurled it across the room. It shattered against the wall, the pieces scattering like my thoughts - sharp and wild.

Next went the mirror - I didn't even hesitate. One punch, and it cracked violently, my reflection splitting into fragments I didn't recognize.

Still not enough.

I threw my laptop and watched it crash against the floor with a loud thud, the screen flickering for a second before dying completely.

Papers flew. A chair flipped.

The room that once screamed luxury now looked like a storm had passed through it.

I was the storm.

They hit the walls, the floor... but nothing made me feel better.

Because no matter how much I tried to distract myself...

Her face wouldn't leave my mind.

Isha

That quiet smile.

Those soft eyes.

That innocence that somehow managed to get under my skin without even trying.

So calm. So gentle. So painfully present.

I shut my eyes tightly, breathing hard, trying to block her out - but the more I tried, the clearer she appeared.

When I opened them again, they were bloodshot - red, tired, furious.

What was this?

Why her?

And why couldn't I stop feeling like this?

I clenched my jaw tightly

Blood trickled slowly from my hand - a deep cut across my knuckles from punching the mirror.

It dripped down my fingers, painting thin red lines on my skin before falling to the floor.

But did I care?

Of course not.

Without flinching, I walked straight to my study room - not even bothering to look at the mess I had made behind me.

Each step felt heavy, like the anger inside me was weighing me down.

I pulled out my phone from my pocket, my fingers smeared slightly with blood.

And without thinking twice, I dialed Archit

One ring. Two.

I could feel my jaw tightening, my breath shallow.

"Sir?" He picked up immediately, alert as always.

"Get the jet ready. I'm leaving tonight."

My voice was firm, deliberate -

There was a pause.

"...Where to?"

"London."

Another pause - shorter this time.

"okay sir, your London meeting is still pending. Should I-?"

"Schedule it."

I cut him off.

"That meeting's been waiting long enough anyway."

Archit, ever efficient, caught on instantly.

"Understood. I'll confirm the itinerary and get the jet ready within the hour.

I cut the call

And stared blankly at the broken glass across the floor, glanced down at my bruised, bleeding fist.

I didn't waste time.

Within minutes, I stood in front of the mirror, dressed in a crisp black shirt, the sleeves rolled up to my elbows, Paired with tailored black pants and polished shoes - the look was sharp. Powerful. Controlled.

I ran a hand through my hair, grabbed my watch, and strapped it on, letting out a deep breath. Grabbing my phone , I walked out of the room - leaving behind shattered glass, silence, and a name I wasn't ready to say out loud.

A car was already waiting outside the mansion, the driver open the door and i sat inside and the car turned sharply through a private, guarded gate - my personal airstrip.

No terminals.

No crowd.

Just the quiet hum of engines waiting for him.

As the car stopped, the driver opened the door. I stepped out without a word, the wind tugging slightly at his shirt, sleeves still folded up, jaw tight, eyes dark.

The crew was already in position, lined near the staircase of the jet. Silent, respectful.

I walked toward it slowly - not rushing, but with purpose in every step.

The night air bit at his skin, but he didn't flinch. I didn't feel much these days anyway.

I paused at the foot of the stairs. For a split second, my phone buzzed in my hand.

I shoved it into my pants pocket and ascended the steps, never once looking back.

Once inside, I took my seat, buckled in, and gave a short nod to the pilot.

The engines began to roar, and the world outside started to blur.

With every second, leaving behind the mess, the voices, the name that still lingered at the edge of my thoughts.

I shut my eyes, tilted my head back.

And finally - finally - felt nothing.

___________________________

HER POV

This morning, I woke up - like always, to my mom's voice echoing through the house, calling my name at least three times before I finally got up.

Still half-asleep, I quietly got through my little routine... brushed my teeth, washed my face, and took a quick shower.

I tried to hurry, even though my mind was still floating somewhere between sleep and random thoughts.It wasn't anything special - just a normal morning...

I quickly got ready in something simple yet a little elegant - nothing too much I grabbed my bag and made my way downstairs, where Mom and Dad were already having breakfast.They looked up as I entered and Papa looked at me and gave me a gentle smile - But of course, Mom didn't miss the chance to scold me a little for waking up late.Her tone was sharp, but I knew it came from love... still, I lowered my eyes and quietly took my seat.

After breakfast, I quietly stepped outside and headed toward the car. I slid into the driver's seat, took a small breath, and started the engine.With my bag beside me and the morning still settling in, I drove off - toward college, toward another ordinary day...

After reaching college, I carefully parked my car in the usual spot, switched off the engine, and sat there for a second - just taking a quiet breath

As I stepped out, i walked inside and there standing - Ayushi. The moment I saw her, a wide smile spread across my face without even trying. She looked just like she always did - full of energy, holding a coffee in one hand and waving at me with the other.

I walked straight toward her and before she could say a word, I wrapped my arms around her in a tight hug.She laughed, slightly startled, but hugged me right back - and just like that, the day already felt better.

After our little reunion hug, Ayuuu and I walked together toward our classroom, chatting about random things - nothing too serious, As we stepped inside, most of the students were already there, sitting in their usual spots. The room buzzed quietly with murmurs - some people were talking about assignments, others were sharing weekend stories, and a few were just laughing softly in their own corners.

We quietly made our way to our usual seats near the window and sat down, just as I was about to say something, The door creaked open -and in walked our not-so-favorite English professor, Mrs. Raina. She had that same strict expression she always wore, the kind that made the whole class instantly straighten up. The room fell quiet, conversations died mid-sentence,

I glanced at Ayushi and she looked at me - we both knew what was coming. A long lecture, possibly about "discipline" or "the importance of punctuality"... or maybe both.

I sighed softly and opened my notebook, hoping today she'd go easy on us.

After what felt like a never-ending lecture from Mrs. Raina - filled with dramatic pauses and way too many grammar rules - we finally moved on. One class after another slipped by, each one blending into the next.

We attended every single class like good students, even if our minds drifted off more than once. By the time the last bell rang, my notebook had more doodles than notes, and my brain was begging for a break.

As the final bell echoed through the corridors, Ayushi and I grabbed our things and slowly made our way out of the classroom. The sun outside felt a little too bright after hours of fluorescent lighting, and the gentle breeze played with the loose strands of my hair as we walked toward the college exit.

Just then, my phone buzzed in my hand. I glanced down at the screen - and paused Ruhi. Her name flashed across the caller ID, and for a second, I just stood there, blinking at the screen.

I slowly pressed the green button and brought the phone to my ear,

And then I heard her -a bright, cheerful voice that instantly felt like sunshine.

"Hey! Where are you? Are you free right now?" she asked, her words spilling out like excitement she couldn't hold in.

I blinked, gathering my voice.

"Umm... yeah, I just stepped out of college. What's up?"

I tried to sound calm, but even I could hear the tiny nervousness in my own voice. I could hear the excitement bubbling in her voice, like she had something fun planned and couldn't wait to share it.

"Nice! So... I need to go shopping," she said with a soft laugh, "So, I was thinking... maybe you could come with me?"

For a moment, I didn't know what to say.

Not because I didn't want to - but because I hadn't expected it. No one had ever randomly called me up to hang out like that. It wasn't forced, it wasn't formal - it was just... real.

Her voice was so warm, so full of ease, like she wasn't asking out of politeness - she genuinely wanted me there.

I bit my lip, smiling to myself, a little unsure but also a little... happy. And before I could overthink it like I usually do, I replied softly,

"Yeah... sure. I'd love to."

"Perfect!" she said with a soft laugh, the kind that made her sound even more excited. "Meet me at Palladium Mall in Lower Parel? It's my go-to place for everything."

I nodded instinctively, even though she couldn't see me.

"Sure... I'll be there."

After the call ended, I turned to Ayushi, who was already looking at me with curious eyes. I couldn't help but smile. I told her everything. Without wasting much time, we both left for mall - Palladium Mall - wasn't too far, and the ride felt quicker than usual.

We finally reached Palladium Mall -

After stepping out of the car , Ayushi adjusted her sling bag and looked around, taking in the early evening crowd.

Just as I was about to say something, my phone buzzed again. I looked at the screen - Ruhi.

I answered right away, and her familiar cheerful voice greeted me once more.

"Hey! I'm already there... but can you wait near the main entrance? I'll come find you!"

Her tone was bubbly, excited - like she'd been looking forward to this all day.

"Okay," I replied softly, She chimed, and the call ended with a soft beep.

We waited near the main entrance, right by the fountain where the sound of water mixed with soft music playing from nearby cafés.

And then... a sleek black car pulled up in front of the mall. The door opened, and Ruhi stepped out.

She wasn't dressed in anything flashy - just a simple, long dress that flowed gently with the breeze. But somehow, it suited her perfectly.There was something effortlessly cute about her, the kind of charm you didn't have to try for.

Her soft curls framed her face, and as soon as she spotted us, her dimples appeared with a bright, cheerful smile. She raised her hand and waved at us.

Ruhi walked toward us with that same cheerful energy, her smile never fading.

And before I could even say anything, she pulled me into a quick, friendly hug - the kind that felt warm, casual, and somehow comforting.

It wasn't awkward.

Then she turned to Ayushi, her smile still bright.

" Hiii " she said, offering a polite little wave.

Ayushi smiled back, and they shook hands - though it felt more like the start of a group that just clicked.

The three of us stood there, talking and laughing for a few seconds, and honestly... our vibes matched so effortlessly, it surprised me. There was no tension, no hesitation. Just easy, flowing energy -

As we stepped through the glass doors, a wave of cool air wrapped around us - a soft contrast to the warmth outside.

My eyes widened almost instantly.

The mall was... breathtaking.

Everywhere I looked, there were shining lights, tall glass windows, and polished floors that sparkled with every step.Big brand stores lined both sides - their displays filled with clothes, bags, shoes...

It was the kind of place where everything looked expensive - where people walked around in designer heels, sipping coffee from fancy cafés, and every corner smelled like perfume and luxury.

Ayushi whispered, "Whoa..." and I quietly nodded, just as amazed.

Ruhi, on the other hand, looked like she belonged here.

Just as we were about to take our first step toward the store, my phone suddenly rang.

I paused mid-step and glanced at the

screen.

Dad

My heart skipped a beat.

I quickly checked the time - 6:30 PM.

Oh no.

I hadn't told anyone. In all the excitement, I completely forgot to inform mom and dad.

And now they were probably worried.

I quickly told dad everything - that I was at Palladium Mall, not alone, but with Ayushi and Ruhi. And I ended the call, a soft wave of relief washed over me.

I slipped my phone back into my bag, took a deep breath, and walked back toward Ayushi and Ruhi, who were patiently waiting for me. I gave them a soft smile, and without needing to say much, we all started walking further into the mall - side by side.

Soon, we entered one of the most beautiful stores I'd ever seen.The lights were soft and golden, the mannequins dressed in elegant pieces that looked straight out of a fashion magazine. Everything was so perfectly arranged... and so, so expensive.

Ruhi and Ayushi instantly lit up like kids in a candy store.

They moved through the racks with excitement - pulling out dresses, holding them up, giggling, and admiring each other.

Ruhi found a stunning navy-blue satin dress that looked like it belonged at a red carpet event. Ayushi, on the other hand, picked a pastel pink one with tiny pearl details - simple, sweet, and totally her.

They both looked so happy - twirling in front of the mirror, laughing over which heels would match, trying on earrings like they owned the place.I just watched them with a small smile,

While Ayushi and Ruhi were busy trying out their beautiful dresses, I stood quietly nearby And then, suddenly, my eyes wandered - just for a second - across the corridor, past the golden railings and the marble floor.Through the large glass windows of another store, something caught my attention.

A mannequin stood tall and graceful, draped in the most stunning red saree I had ever seen.The fabric shimmered gently under the store's lighting - not too flashy, but rich and elegant.Tiny diamond-like stones were delicately embedded along the border, catching the light with every angle. They sparkled like stars on velvet.

I don't know how long I stood there, just staring at the mannequin. She didn't move, obviously. Just stood there, frozen in perfect posture, draped in that stunning red saree that looked like it belonged in a fairytale.

And for some reason... I felt this tiny wave of jealousy rise in my chest.

I mean, she wasn't even real! Just a lifeless mannequin with perfect curves, flawless posture, and my dream saree hugging her like it was made only for her.

How unfair.

I crossed my arms and narrowed my eyes at her, as if that would somehow make her give it up.

It didn't.

A soft pout formed on my lips before I caught myself and laughed quietly.

Was I really getting jealous of a mannequin?

I was still lost in my own little world - somewhere between dreams, red silk -when I heard Ayushi's voice calling me.

"Ishuuuuu!"

I blinked and turned, slightly startled, like I'd just woken up from a very sparkly daydream.

There she was, standing just a few steps away with shopping bags in both hands, her eyes squinting playfully at me.

"What are you staring at?" she asked, with a grin that said she already knew.

I gave a tiny, guilty smile and looked away,

"Nothing... just looking around," I mumbled.

Ruhi appeared beside her with a raised eyebrow, clearly curious.

But I didn't say anything more.

Some things... like a secret saree crush and a small war with a mannequin, were better left in my head.

As we began walking again, Ayushi suddenly looked at me and asked, "By the way....tune kuch kyu nahi liya?"

{"By the way... why didn’t you buy anything?"}

Ruhi nodded, looking at my empty hands. "Haan, you didn't even try anything!"

I gave a small smile and shook my head."Nothing really felt like... me," I said honestly. "I didn't like anything that much."

They both frowned a little, clearly not satisfied with that answer " Arey kuch to try kar leti" Ayushi said, nudging me gently.

{"You could’ve at least tried something..."}

They insisted for a while, tugging at my arm, pointing to stores we hadn't gone to yet, trying to convince me.

But what could I say?

Truth is - I really didn't like anything. Nothing had that feeling.

Except that one red saree.

That one piece of clothing I hadn't even touched, but couldn't get out of my head.

So I just smiled and walked with them quietly, the saree still lingering in the back of my mind.

After wandering around a few more stores, we finally decided to take a break.

Ruhi suggested a luxurious restaurant on the top floor of the mall - the kind that had velvet chairs, golden lights, and soft instrumental music playing in the background.

As we entered, everything felt elegant and a little dreamy, just like the rest of the mall.We found a cozy corner table by the window, where the city lights sparkled far below.

Ruhi and Ayushi grabbed the menu and immediately turned into excited little food critics.

"Let’s try this!”

“Oh wait, and this one too—”

“Desserts! We’re definitely not skipping those!”

They practically ordered half the menu, giggling and pointing at dishes I couldn't even pronounce.

I just smiled and watched them, quietly amused.Their energy was contagious, but I didn't feel very hungry.

So, I softly told the waiter, "Just one cappuccino,

Ruhi gave me a look. "Bas coffee?"

I nodded. "I'm not really that hungry... just something warm would be nice."

We spent a good while there - eating, chatting, and just enjoying the calm after all the shopping chaos.Ruhi and Ayushi devoured their orders with the kind of excitement only good food brings, and I sipped my warm coffee slowly, letting it soothe me from the inside.

We laughed over the silliest things, shared tiny stories, and for the first time in a while,

Once we were done, we gathered our bags and made our way out of the restaurant, our steps slower now, like none of us really wanted the evening to end.

Eventually, we exited the mall - the night air cool and a little breezy. The sky above was dusky purple, and the city lights shimmered around us like stars.

We stood near the drop-off zone, smiling, saying our goodbyes like we were old friends instead of people who had only just met properly.

Ruhi offered sweetly, "I can drop you both home, I have my driver."

I smiled, touched by her kindness, but shook my head gently.

"I brought my car... but thank you so much, Ruhi." she nodded

We all exchanged soft hugs, a few more laughs, and promised to meet again soon.

As soon as Ruhi's black car pulled away into the soft glow of the streetlights, silence hung in the air for a second - the kind that comes only after a long, beautiful day.

Ayushi and I looked at each other and smiled.Without saying much, we both slipped into my car, placing our bags in the back seat. The engine purred to life, and I slowly pulled out of the parking area, heading toward home.

The city looked peaceful at night - quieter, calmer, like even it was winding down from its own adventures. As we drove, Ayushi and I started talking softly about the day.

After some time, we reached Ayushi's house. I stopped the car in front of her gate, and she turned to me with a sleepy smile.

"Today was fun," she said, softly.

I nodded, "Yeah... really fun."

She waved as she stepped out, and I waited until she went inside safely before driving off again. It was already 9:30, and the streets had grown quieter, lit by the soft yellow glow of streetlamps. I turned up the volume just a little, letting the calm music fill the silence.

I was tired - no doubt about that - but a good kind of tired, the kind that comes after a day filled with new memories.

In a few more minutes, I reached home.

As I entered, the house felt peaceful.

Mom and Dad had already had dinner, and everything was quiet. I softly tiptoed to my room, not wanting to disturb anyone.

I wasn't really hungry either. More than anything, I just wanted to change and lie down.I slipped into something comfortable, quickly freshened up, and let out a small sigh as I fell onto my bed

I tossed my phone beside me on the bed and let out a deep sigh - the kind that comes after a long, exhausting day.

Finally, peace.

I pulled the blanket over myself, the softness comforting, and slowly closed my eyes, ready to drift into a quiet sleep.

But just as the darkness behind my eyelids settled in...

His face appeared.

Veer

Out of nowhere.

Sharp eyes. Calm expression. That unreadable silence.

My eyes flew open immediately.

Oh God.

What was that?

Why... why did his face suddenly show up like some dramatic movie scene?

I sat up slightly, confused, my heart beating just a little faster.

"This is ridiculous," I whispered to myself, pressing my palm to my chest.

I didn't even know him properly. We had barely spoken. He was always so distant, so mysterious - so impossible to read.

Then why was he appearing in my thoughts like this?

I buried my face in my pillow, groaning softly.

"What is happening to me...?" I mumbled.

I tried not to think about it.

About him.

I turned to the other side, closed my eyes tightly, and whispered to myself,

"Just sleep,... it's nothing."

And thankfully, after a few minutes of tossing and turning, my mind finally gave in.

The noise inside me slowly faded.

My breathing slowed.

And before I knew it...

Sleep wrapped around me like a blanket, pulling me into gentle dreams.

Thank God.

Because even I didn't have the

energy to deal with whatever that was.

___________________________