The bustling cafeteria brimmed with the familiar hum of student chatter, the rhythmic clatter of trays, and the occasional burst of carefree laughter. Mahi and Riya sat by the sunlit window, their trays half-finished as their voices danced animatedly in conversation.

"So, I was thinking about joining the drama club. What do you think?" Riya asked, her eyes shimmering with a hopeful kind of excitement.

Mahi raised a brow, amusement flickering across her features. "You? On stage? That's going to be interesting."

Mahi let out a laugh, shaking her head. "Hey, I think I could pull it off. It'll be fun!"

Just as their laughter mingled with the cafeteria’s ambient noise, the door creaked open, slicing through the moment like a whisper of warning. Mahi’s attention shifted instinctively. Ishan entered, flanked as always by his silent sentinels—Rajan and Vikram. They moved with a swagger that suggested ownership, arrogance oozing from every step.

Mahi noticed Ishan’s eyes sweeping across the room, until—there. A flicker of recognition sparked in his gaze as it met hers. His posture subtly changed, but instead of acknowledging her, he looked away and walked on—though his eyes lingered just a heartbeat too long.

"Hey, Mahi, do you see who's here?" Riya murmured, tension curling around her voice like smoke.

Mahi followed her gaze, then rolled her eyes with practiced disdain. "Oh no, not Ishan and his gang. They've been stirring trouble everywhere lately."

The trio settled into a table at the far end of the room, their voices low but eyes alert. Ishan’s gaze, however, remained unnervingly trained on Mahi. She tried not to look, not to acknowledge the prickling sensation of being watched.

"Do you think he's looking at us?" Mahi whispered, unease settling into her bones.

"Definitely," Riya responded, her voice dropping an octave. "Just try not to make eye contact."

Mahi focused on her tray, though the clenching of her fingers around her juice cup betrayed her growing tension. Then she caught something—an almost imperceptible shift in Ishan's expression, like a shadow crossing the moon.

"I remember her. She's from that... incident," she heard Ishan murmur to his friends, the words barely audible but unmistakably about her.

Rajan and Vikram exchanged loaded glances, though they stayed silent. Mahi’s grip tightened, the juice cup creaking softly under pressure.

"Mahi, let's just ignore them," Riya whispered, noting the creeping distress etched into her friend’s features.

"Yeah, let's," Mahi replied, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

But Ishan wasn’t finished. After a brief exchange with his companions, he rose and strolled toward them, confidence coiled like a serpent beneath his casual demeanor. He leaned against their table, a smirk curling at the corners of his mouth.

"Hey, Mahi. Fancy seeing you here," he said, voice casual, but laced with something sharper, something unsettling.

Mahi looked up, heart thudding in her chest. She returned a polite but guarded smile. "Ishan. What do you want?"

He leaned in slightly, his eyes unreadable. "Just surprised to see you. It's been a while."

"We're just having lunch, Ishan," Mahi replied, her tone carefully neutral. "If you're done here, maybe you could let us be?"

A flicker of irritation passed through his gaze, quickly masked by false charm.

"Fine. But just so you know, you might see more of me around. Things have changed."

Mahi felt her stomach drop but kept her expression composed. "Great. See you around."

Ishan gave one last lingering glance before turning back to his table. The moment he walked away, Mahi let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

"Are you okay?" Riya asked, concern etched into her features.

Mahi nodded slowly. "Yeah. Just surprised. Let’s not let this ruin our lunch."

Riya nodded in agreement, but the tension between them clung to the air like smoke. Something about Ishan’s presence had shifted the atmosphere, casting a shadow over their peace.

Athrav’s BMW glided to a halt in front of the college campus, its obsidian frame gleaming beneath the golden wash of the afternoon sun. Luxury cars weren’t an unfamiliar sight here, but this one stood apart—a model unreleased to the public, a machine cloaked in curiosity and envy.

Athrav stepped out in effortless style—casual but impossibly refined. His sunglasses reflected the crowd as he scanned for one face and one face only.

"Where are you, Mahi?" he muttered under his breath, anticipation curling like electricity in his chest.

Then—there. Among the wave of students trickling out, he saw her. Mahi. She walked beside Riya, lost in animated conversation. She didn’t see him. Not yet. And Athrav—though his heart longed to rush to her—remained still, watching her like she was a secret he’d never grow tired of keeping.

Their marriage was a hidden thread in the tapestry of college life, unseen by all, even Riya. A sacred vow wrapped in silence. And Athrav respected that—respected her.

His phone buzzed: a text from Rohan, an update on tomorrow’s business meeting. Athrav glanced at it, replied swiftly, then pocketed the phone again—eyes still fixed on Mahi.

Her smile sent warmth through him, but he stayed hidden, a phantom of devotion. As she looked up and scanned the crowd, his instincts took over—he stepped back into the blur of students.

The moment passed. She hadn’t seen him.

He smiled to himself and, instead of approaching, sent her a text:

"Just wanted to see you, Mahi. Hope you're having a good day at college."

Later, as the campus began to quiet, Mahi glanced back toward the gates. Riya had already gone. The sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the pavement. Her heart fluttered with secret joy.

Athrav waited, leaning against the BMW, the engine idling softly. When Mahi approached, she said nothing. Neither did he. Instead, she slipped into the passenger seat, her presence all the greeting he needed.

The engine whispered to life as they pulled away from the campus.

"So, how was your day?" Athrav asked gently, breaking the quiet with ease.

"Busy. But manageable," she replied, gazing out the window. "Just the usual chaos."

He smiled, his tone soft. "I’m glad it wasn’t too hard. I hate seeing you overwhelmed."

She chuckled, the tension finally beginning to melt. "Comes with the territory. But I’ll survive."

"You always do," he murmured. "But don’t forget to breathe. You’re doing better than you think."

She glanced at him, cheeks flushed with warmth. "Thanks, Athrav. You always know what to say."

"I try," he teased, fingers drumming lightly on the gearshift. "But you? You’re invincible."

"Oh, I know," she replied with mock pride. "Practically bulletproof."

Their laughter filled the car, light and unburdened, as the city gave way to quieter roads and familiar peace.

As they neared their favorite secluded park, Athrav spoke again, voice tender.

"I missed you, you know."

Mahi turned, her smile soft and real. "I missed you too."

He reached out, brushing his fingers against hers—a fleeting yet steady promise.

"We’ll be okay, Mahi. One step at a time."

"With you," she said, "it’s always easier."

They drove in silence then, content in the hidden world they’d built—just for the two of them.

"Let’s go for a walk " Mahi whispered.

Athrav glanced at her, smile blooming.

"Sounds perfect."

And it was. Perfect—because they were together, even in secret.

The afternoon sun hung low on the horizon, casting a mellow golden hue over the city as Mahi and Athrav drove through quiet streets toward the school. Their sleek black BMW glided smoothly over the road, its polished frame catching the attention of passersby—an elegant anomaly amidst the parade of practical school-run vehicles.

Mahi adjusted her seatbelt, glancing sideways at Athrav. His hands were steady on the wheel, his profile calm, stoic—effortlessly composed, as always.

"Do you think it's a good idea to show up in this?"
Her voice carried a hint of hesitation as she gestured toward the gleaming dashboard.
"We don't want to make Advait's friends feel uncomfortable, do we?"

Athrav chuckled, his lips curving into a familiar smirk.
"It’s just a car, Mahi. Advait will be thrilled—and as for his friends, let them be shocked. They’ll survive."

Mahi arched an eyebrow, but despite herself, a smile tugged at her lips.
"You’re probably right."

As they neared the school, the playful shrieks of children echoed across the courtyard. The sight filled Mahi with that familiar rush of motherly warmth. She could already picture Advait’s eager face, his eyes lighting up at the end of another school day.

The moment the BMW came to a halt near the school gates, it drew the attention of nearly every child in sight. A hush seemed to ripple across the playground. Conversations halted. Heads turned. Older students nudged one another, and a group of younger ones stood slack-jawed, whispering among themselves.

Inside the car, Mahi and Athrav exchanged an amused glance before stepping out. Mahi smoothed the front of her kurta, trying to keep her presence understated—though beside Athrav, that was rarely possible.

The school bell rang.

And then—there he was. Advait came bounding out of the building, eyes darting through the crowd. The moment he spotted them, his face erupted into joy.

"Mumma !Papa!"
His voice soared above the others as he sprinted toward them, his little backpack bouncing with each step.

Mahi knelt down, arms open wide.
"Hey, sweetheart. How was school?"

"It was awesome, Mom!"
He launched into her embrace, laughter bubbling from his chest. Then he turned to Athrav, eyes as wide as the sun.
"Look at the car! Is that really ours?"

Athrav laughed, tousling his son’s hair.
"It’s all ours, buddy. You like it?"

"Like it? I love it! All my friends are staring!"

Indeed, they were. A small circle of children had already formed, whispering excitedly and craning their necks to get a better look at the sleek vehicle.

One boy stepped forward, eyes full of curiosity.
"Advait, is that really your car? It looks so fancy! How come we've never seen it before?"

Mahi offered the group a warm smile, her hand resting protectively on her son's shoulder.
"It’s a little surprise for him. He’s been a good boy lately, so we thought he deserved a treat."

The children nodded, impressed, and Advait beamed with pride—not from the car, but from the love behind it.

As the family climbed into the car, Advait chattered non-stop from the back seat. Mahi and Athrav exchanged another glance—one that said more than words could. These were the moments that made everything else worth it.

"Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad."
His voice, filled with sincerity, drifted from the back seat as they pulled into their driveway.

"Anything for you, sweetheart,"
Mahi replied, kissing the top of his head.

Hand in hand, the three of them walked into their home, leaving the astonished murmurs of the schoolyard behind.

By evening, the sky had begun to blush a gentle orange, the horizon melting into dusky violet. The family stepped out once again, this time heading toward their favorite restaurant—a cozy place known for its hearty meals and casual, street-food charm.

Advait bounced beside them, practically radiating excitement.

"I'm starving, Mumma ! Can we please get some street food? I really want chaat and pani puri!"

Mahi laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face.
"Alright, sweetie. But don’t forget—we’re getting real food too."

Athrav, ever the calm voice of indulgence, winked at his son.
"I think I can handle some chaat. Let’s turn this into a feast."

The restaurant buzzed with the comforting sounds of clinking cutlery, sizzling pans, and overlapping conversations. Aromas of cardamom, cumin, and fresh coriander danced in the air as they were led to a table by the window.

Mahi ordered a spread that would make any food lover sigh—classic butter chicken, spicy tandoori platters, fragrant biryani, and, of course, the street food Advait had begged for: pani puri, dahi puri, and crisp, tangy chaat.

The first plate arrived—puffed puris crackling with freshness, filled with spiced potatoes and drenched in tamarind water.

Advait popped one into his mouth, eyes wide as the flavors burst across his tongue.
"Yum! This is the best!"
He grinned at his parents.
"Thank you! This is exactly what I wanted!"

Mahi smiled, her heart full.
"I’m glad you’re happy, sweetheart. But pace yourself—we still have a table full of food coming."

Athrav laughed, picking up a puri of his own.
"Let him enjoy it, Mahi. He’s earned it today."

Soon, the main course arrived, and the table filled with colorful dishes, each one an aromatic masterpiece. They shared bites, laughed between spoonfuls, and listened to Advait recount the tales of his day with wide-eyed excitement.

"I got an A in my math test today!"
He beamed, pride radiating from every inch of him.

"That’s amazing, Advait! We’re so proud of you,"
Mahi said, her voice rich with joy.
"Looks like this treat was well-earned."

"Yeah, you’ve been doing great lately,"
Athrav added, raising his glass of water in a mock toast.
"Keep it up, little champ."

Advait leaned back in his chair, belly full, eyes sparkling.
"Thanks, Papa. Thanks, Mumma."

As they finished their meal, Advait leaned in once more, hopeful.
"Can we come here again tomorrow? Maybe try more street food?"

Mahi shook her head with a laugh.
"We’ll see, sweetheart. We’ll see."

Outside, the evening air was cool and refreshing. They walked back to the car slowly, full and content. It had been a simple day, and yet, somehow, it felt perfect.

By the time they reached home, night had wrapped the world in its quiet hush. The house welcomed them with stillness.

Advait had dozed off in the backseat, his little mouth parted in sleep, his head tilted slightly.

"Looks like someone’s exhausted,"
Mahi whispered, gently unbuckling his seatbelt.

"He had a big day,"
Athrav said with a fond smile.

Together, they carried him inside. Athrav gently laid their son on his bed, tucking the covers around him with a tenderness that came naturally. He lingered for a moment, watching the slow, steady rise of his chest.

"Goodnight, little man,"
he whispered, brushing a stray curl from Advait’s forehead before stepping out.

Mahi waited by the door, her smile quiet and knowing. The warm glow of the lamps softened the corners of the room, casting her in a golden halo. Athrav walked toward her and, without a word, pulled her close.

His arms encircled her waist, his lips pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. The world outside faded. All that remained was the steady thrum of hearts in sync.

"I missed you,"
he said softly, his voice laced with emotion.

"I missed you too,"
Mahi whispered, her fingers resting lightly on his chest.

He cupped her face, eyes searching hers, before leaning in and kissing her—slowly, deeply—anchored in a love that only grew stronger with time.

When they finally pulled apart, Athrav smiled.

"I’m glad to be home. With you. With him. It’s all that really matters."

"We’re always here."

she replied.

"You don’t have to miss us when you’re home."

And just like that, they stepped into the comfort of their evening, hearts aligned in the quiet rhythm of love, family, and all the little moments that make a life feel full.

Sneak peek Chapter 15

Then, in an instant, cold water rained down from above, soaking her through. Gasps turned to laughter. Her clothes clung to her skin, her hair dripping down her back.

She looked up—and there he was.

Ishan.

Leaning over the balcony railing with that same smug grin he always wore when he thought he was clever. His friends, Rajan and Vikram, snickered beside him.

"Whoops. Didn’t see you there, Mahi," Ishan called out, mock innocence dripping from his voice. "Guess you should watch where you’re walking."