Chapter: A Sweet Reunion Gone Wrong

Avyuktha's eyes wandered for just a second-and that was enough. Something familiar, someone beloved, caught her attention, and before Arnav could even register the change in her grip, her fingers slipped out of his hand.

"KASHIIII... KASHIIII!" she screamed, her voice bursting with uncontainable excitement as she took off, legs moving faster than her thoughts, running with the kind of reckless joy only a child meeting her best friend could feel. In that moment, there was no road, no crowd, no danger only Kashi standing right there, waiting for her.

Arnav felt it instantly, that sharp drop in his chest. "Avu!!" The word barely left his mouth before he, Maan, and Anvi were running after her, panic replacing reason as they watched her dash straight across the road without a single glance, completely consumed by her happiness.

And then it happened.

A car came speeding toward her, too fast, too close.

"AVUUUU!"

Arnav's scream tore through the air, every ounce of terror ripping out of him in that one broken cry. For a heartbeat, the world seemed to freeze-tyres screeching, time stalling, breath trapped in his lungs. The car jerked to a halt just in time, missing her by mere inches.

But Avyuktha never even noticed.

She ran past it as if it didn't exist, straight into Kashi's arms, wrapping herself around her friend with a delighted laugh, her face glowing, her entire body buzzing with the simple joy of reunion.

Arnav stood rooted to the spot for a fraction of a second, his heart pounding so violently it hurt, the image of what could have happened flashing brutally in his mind. Then his body moved on instinct. He ran, crossed the distance in seconds, and pulled Avyuktha away from Kashi, breaking the hug without a thought.

He dropped to his knees in front of her immediately, hands trembling as they moved over her arms, her shoulders, her legs, his eyes scanning her desperately, searching for injuries he was terrified to find. "Tu tu thik hai na?" His voice was rushed, uneven, fear bleeding through every word.

Still smiling, still riding the high of seeing her friend, Avyuktha nodded quickly. "Ha mujhe kya hoga..."

That was when the fear snapped.

Relief twisted into fury, sharp and uncontrollable, because just seconds ago he had watched death rush toward her and she hadn't even realised it. His hands tightened around her arms as he shook her, his voice rising, breaking, spilling out everything he'd been holding in. "Tu pagal ho gyi hai... Aise road pe bhagte hai... Abhi tera accident hote hote bacha hai... Aur tu keh rhi hai mujhe kya hoga!"

The shout echoed louder than he meant it to.

Avyuktha flinched, her shoulders jerking, her bright expression collapsing in an instant. Her eyes dropped, enthusiasm draining away, replaced by startled silence. Even Kashi froze beside her, the joy of reunion evaporating under the weight of Arnav's fear, still vibrating in the air.

And only then did it hit him how close he had come to losing her.

Kashi, who had been standing stunned only moments ago, reacted instinctively. He stepped forward at once, placing himself slightly in front of Avyuktha, his small frame tense but determined, eyes blazing with sudden protectiveness. Lifting his chin, he looked straight at Arnav, his voice sharp and offended, trying hard to sound braver than he felt.

“Ooo hello… aap kaun ho?” he said firmly. “Aur meri dost se aise kyu baat kar rahe ho?” His gaze flicked briefly toward Avyuktha, who had shrunk back behind him, before snapping back to Arnav. “Door raho.”

Maan and Anvi reached them then, breathless and pale, instinctively closing in around Avyuktha. The noise of the road returned, the world moving again, but the space between them all felt fragile and heavy, filled with unspoken fear, confusion, and the painful aftermath of what almost happened.

Arnav took a step forward, reaching out instinctively to pull Avyuktha closer, the fear still raw in his eyes, refusing to let her remain even a breath away from him. That movement was enough.

Kashi reacted instantly, spinning around and shouting, his voice sharp and furious. “Abey oye… kya kr raha hai… bola na durr reh… fuck off fucker!”

Arnav stopped.

His eyes darkened at the language, jaw tightening as his gaze flickered from Kashi to Avyuktha, taking in the way she had gone completely still again, her body reacting before her mind could catch up. The moment stretched, heavy and charged.

Then Avyuktha stepped forward on instinct, placing herself between them, her voice hurried, almost pleading. “Kashi bhai hai vo mere…”

For a second, he froze, completely.
Mind blank. Eyes widened. Breath stuck in his chest.

Kashi gasped suddenly, stumbling back a step, utterly shocked. “YE AARUSH HAI!”

Before Avyuktha could even say no or explain herself, Kashi marched straight ahead, planting himself right in front of Arnav, who was standing tall now. Kashi looked up and froze. His eyes widened as he stared at Arnav’s face, then snapped back to Avyuktha, then back at Arnav again, his brain clearly struggling to catch up.

And then he squealed again, even louder this time, pointing straight at Arnav like he’d just seen a ghost.
“YE AARUSH HAI!”

Avyuktha rushed forward, flustered and embarrassed at his stupid best friend “Kashi, Areeee ”

But he wasn’t listening. Not even a little.
His eyes travelled from Arnav’s face… to his shoulders… to his height… and then snapped right back to Avyuktha in absolute disbelief.

“Tune aisa kya khila diya isko?!” he exclaimed loudly, voice echoing, hands flying dramatically in the air.

“Ye...Ye chuza...Yeh,” he continued, staring again at Arnav like the laws of biology had personally betrayed him. “ Itna Lamba” he threw his hands up, “YE CHUZA ITNA LAMBA KAISE HO GYAAAAA”

Kashi’s gaze drifted to Arnav’s face, the sharp jawline, the clean beard adorning it. He squinted, unsettled, then crooked his fingers, motioning for Arnav to bend down.

Arnav exhaled sharply at the gesture, irritation flaring in his chest. But before he could react

Whack.

Kashi slapped his arms and snapped, “Bada hoon tujhse zyada. Attitude mat dikha… neeche aa.”

For a split second, Arnav just stared at him, disbelief flashing across his face. Then, against every instinct, he crouched down slightly.

That was all the invitation Kashi needed.

He reached out instantly, one hand sliding over Arnav’s beard, fingers brushing through the coarse stubble, the other pressing against his perfectly clean chin.

He froze.

Eyes widened.

His gaze snapped to Avyuktha… then back to Arnav… then back again, as if trying to reconcile reality with memory.

And then he screamed, voice cracking in pure shock,

“Tujhe daadhi bhi aane lagi?! Aisa kya khaa liya tune?!”

Clutching his head dramatically, Kashi staggered back.

“Hey bhagwan…” he groaned, scandalised. “Ye chuza itna bada ho kaise gaya!”

He gestured wildly from his own height up to Arnav’s towering frame, then stopped mid-motion.

His hand didn’t even reach Arnav’s chest.

Kashi went completely still.

Horror finally sank in.

Behind him, Avyuktha muttered under her breath, mortified and irritated,
“Ye pagal ho gaya hai… gadha.”

“Avyuktha come here.”

Arnav’s voice cut through the air...sharp, clipped, nothing like the warmth he usually carried when he said her name.
She froze instantly. Her heart skipped, an uneasy chill crawling up her spine.

Before she could even turn

Smack.

Kashi whipped around and slapped Arnav again, scandalised.
“Ek number ka battameez ho gaya hai!” he exclaimed loudly. “Jiji hai na teri...naam se bula raha hai! Height badh gayi hai toh zyada sir pe mat chadh.”

He hit him once more for emphasis.
“Samjha? Ya ache se samjhau?”

Arnav’s jaw tightened. Slowly, deliberately, he looked down at Kashi, eyes dark, fury no longer hidden.
“Samjhao.”

Kashi froze.

For a moment, his confidence flickered under that gaze. But stubborn, nervous bravado took over. He puffed his chest out anyway. “Dekh chuze,” he said, trying to sound authoritative, “Chota hai… chote ki tarah reh... Bada hoon main tujhse… aur vo bhi badi hai tujhse. Kayde se baat kar, samjha? Pyaar se samjha raha hoon… warna”

“Warna kya?” Arnav cut in darkly.

Kashi went completely stiff.

Before the tension could snap, Avyuktha rushed forward and placed herself firmly between them, blurting out in panic, “Kashi Bhaiya hai vo mera… Aaru nahi hai vo.... Aaru vo hai.”

She pointed behind him.

Aarush stood beside Anvi, wideeyed, watching everything silently.

Kashi blinked.

He looked at Aarush.
Then at Arnav.
Then back at Aarush.

And suddenly

“ARREEEEE!” he squealed, clapping his hands. “Chuzeeee… tu yaha hai! Maine iss aadmi ko Aaru samajh liya… ohooo!”

He burst out laughing. “Idhar aa, mere pyaare chote chuzee!”

Aarush immediately ran to him, and Kashi scooped him up with ease, peppering his face with rapid, noisy kisses. “Hai re meri jaan,” he laughed softly. “Mai aur Tai kabse tum logo ko dhundh rahe the, Avu… hum Sitara gaye the tujhe aur Aaru ko apne saath laane.”

His laughter faded completely,

“Teri maami ne bola tujhe tere papa le gaye… hum log bahot tension mein the yaar, Avu.”

He gently set Aarush down and stepped closer to Avyuktha now. The chaos drained from his face, replaced by pure concern as his eyes scanned her carefully. “Avu… tu theek hai na?” he asked quietly. “Tere papa tujhe ache se rakhte hai na?”

His voice softened further, almost pleading. “Koi problem ho toh, Avu… tu chal mere saath.”

A small smile broke through as he added, hope shining in his eyes, “Tai ki bahot achi job lag gayi hai, Hum sab ab yahin Mumbai mein reh sakte hai. Tai ne ghar bhi le liya hai… usme tera room bhi hai.”

He paused, looking at her.. His voice softened as he said earnestly

“Tu chal mere saath, Avu.”

As he spoke, he gently tugged Avyuktha’s hand toward himself, hope and concern mingling openly in his eyes.

Maan stepped forward then, placing himself squarely in front of Avyuktha, his voice sharp but controlled as he said, “Oye shaitaan… Avu bahot khush hai, aur tere saath main toh kabhi nahi bhejunga usse, samjha.”

The words landed hard.

Kashi snapped his head toward Maan, recognition flashing instantly, he was the same man from the cafeteria earlier that day. Fury flared in his eyes as he shot back, “Oye andhakasur… meri dost hai vo, aur mere hi saath jayegi. Aap kaun hote ho usko rokne wale?”

Maan didn’t flinch. “Bhaiyu hoon main uska… aur vo mere saath rahegi, samjha?”

Kashi turned sharply to Avyuktha, his face scrunching in clear disbelief as he asked, “Ye tere bhaiyu hai?”

Avyuktha nodded quietly.

Kashi clicked his tongue in disgust, muttering, “Tujhe duniya mein koi aur bhai nahi mila tha… ye aadmi mila tha…”

Maan opened his mouth to retort, irritation flashing across his face but before a single word could leave him, a sharp, unfamiliar voice cut through the tension.

“Kya ho raha hai yaha?”

Everyone turned.

A girl in her early twenties rushed toward them, breathless, eyes scanning the group frantically. “Kashi…” she exclaimed, relief and panic tangled together. Her gaze shifted and froze on Avyuktha and Aarush.

“Avu… Aru…”

Her voice broke midword.

Before anyone could react, she collapsed to her knees in front of them and pulled both Avyuktha and Aarush into her arms, clutching them so tightly that it felt as if she might never let go. The children melted into her embrace instantly, wrapping their arms around her, their faces pressed into her shoulders.

They stood there like that for long seconds...no words, no movement, just a fierce, desperate hug, so tight it felt as though even air couldn’t pass between them.

Trisha finally pulled back, cupping Avyuktha’s and Aarush’s cheeks in trembling hands, searching their faces as if afraid they might disappear again. “Tum dono theek ho na, baccha?”

Both nodded quickly, small smiles breaking through their tears.

Unable to stop herself, Trisha hugged them again before slowly letting go. Tears streamed freely down her face as she whispered, “I’m so sorry, Avu… I’m so sorry maine tujhe us aurat ke saath chhod diya… I’m so sorry, Avu…”

Avyuktha reached up instinctively and wiped Trisha’s tears with her small hands, shaking her head. “Tai, hum dono ekdum theek hai.”

Trisha shook her head violently, guilt pouring out of her as she cried, “Nahi… meri wajah se us aurat ne tujhpe phir se haath uthaya… mujhe le jaana chahiye tha tujhe pehle hi. Sirf teen mahine ke liye main gayi thi… aur us aurat ne tumhare saath....” Her voice choked completely, the sentence dying painfully in her throat.

A few steps away, Arnav, Maan, and Anvi watched in stunned silence.

The three of them, Trisha, Avyuktha, and Aarush stood together in a way that looked achingly familiar. The protectiveness, the guilt, the love in Trisha’s voice mirrored something they all recognised far too well. It felt like looking at another version of what they already were a mother and her children bound not by legality, but by pain and devotion.

Anvi’s chest tightened.
Maan’s jaw clenched.

And Arnav observed them keenly, his eyes never leaving the trio, something unreadable settling deep within his gaze.

This time, Avyuktha broke.

The words spilled out of her in broken sobs, messy and unfiltered, the way they only ever do when a child finally feels safe enough to fall apart. Curled into her arms, Avyuktha cried the way she never allowed herself to...no strength, no control, no careful holding back. This wasn’t the brave Avyuktha who stayed strong for herself, for Aru, for the world that demanded too much from her. This was a child, small and aching, clinging to the one place she knew she wouldn’t be pushed away from.

She cried into her arms, voice breaking, accusing and vulnerable all at once, asking why she had been left alone, why it had happened to her because in that moment, she wasn’t being strong anymore. She was exactly what she was supposed to be.

A child in the arms of someone she loved, finally allowed to complain, finally allowed to grieve, finally allowed to be held.

“Aap kyun chali gayi thi…” Avyuktha sobbed, clutching Trisha’s clothes desperately, her fingers digging into the fabric as if letting go would make everything disappear. “Unhone mera haath jala diya… mujhe maara… vase tod diya jisse Aaru ke pair kat gaye… unhone mujhe school se bhi nikal diya, Tai…”

Her voice shook violently, each word dragged out of her chest with effort as tears streamed down her face. She spoke the way a child does when pain spills out all at once...no pauses, no filters, only truth.

“Aap kyun chali gayi thi… khaane ko bhi nahi dete the… Parth bhai chupke khaane ko de dete the…” she hiccupped, pressing her face harder into Trisha’s shoulder. “Aap kyun gayi thi… mujhe itni yaad aa rahi thi aapki…”

Her sobs deepened, breaking her sentences apart. “Aap jaise hi gayi… unhone mujhe maarna shuru kar diya… Aap kyun gayi…” Her grip tightened. “Maine bola tha na aapko… mujhe aur Aaru ko bhi le chalo…”

She sucked in a sharp breath, shaking.
“Unhone bola ki aap bhi mujhe chhod ke chali gayi… aur kabhi nahi aaogi…” Her voice dropped into a wounded whisper before shattering again. “Unhone phir se maarna shuru kar diya…”

Her chest hitched as she cried the question that had lived inside her for far too long.

“Aap kyun gayi…”

Everyone present froze.

This wasn’t just a confession, it was a lifetime spilling out. The kind of pain that had been swallowed because there had been no one safe enough to hear it. For the first time, Avyuktha wasn’t surviving. She wasn’t protecting Aaru, or shielding herself, or pretending she was strong enough to endure it all. She was simply a child, wounded and exhausted, finally trusting someone enough to fall apart.

And in that single, devastating moment, they understood just how sacred Trisha and Kashi were to her, not just family, but safety. The ones she had waited for. The ones she had believed would come back. The ones she had carried in her heart while enduring everything alone.

Trisha broke down completely.

She pulled Avyuktha closer, sobbing into her hair, rocking her gently as she cried, “I’m so sorry, meri guddiya… I’m so sorry… sorry…” Her voice trembled with guilt as she added, “Mujhe paise chahiye the, guddiya… nahi toh main kaise tum teeno ko paalti… isliye job ke liye yahan aayi thi…. Maine tujhe akele nhi choda guddiya... Mai vapas gyi thi tujhe laane... Mai hoon tere pass guddiya... Hamesha hoon... Tu meri guddiya hai meri baccchi... Chahe kuch bhi ho jaye... Mai hamesha tere pass rahungi...” She took a shaky breath, forcing herself to steady. “Lekin ab koi baat nahi.”

She wiped her own tears, then carefully wiped Avyuktha’s, cupping her face with trembling hands and said with quiet resolve, “Main aa gayi hoon na ab… tujhe kuch nahi hoga… tu chal mere saath. Maine flat liya hai, Avu… usme tera room bhi hai.. Maine saja ke rakha hai usko... Kashi ko bhi nhi jaane deti ki meri gudiya ka room hai... Tu chal… hum sab saath mein rahenge ab… khushi khushi...”

That was when Arnav moved.

Without saying a word, he stepped closer and placed his hand firmly on Avyuktha’s shoulder, grounding her, anchoring her, silently but unmistakably staking his claim.

Trisha’s eyes flicked to his hand.

Then to his face.

Then back to Avyuktha.

“Avu…” she asked slowly, her voice careful but probing, “Tere papa tujhe theek se rakhte hai?”

Avyuktha shook her head.

Something dark flickered in Trisha’s eyes, but she stayed quiet as Avyuktha whispered, “Papa ekdum mami ki tarah hai, Tai… mujhe bahot bura bura bolte hai… bolte hai mujhe pet mein hi maar dena chahiye tha.”

Trisha’s heart shattered.

Her breath hitched, but she didn’t let herself cry anymore. She wiped her tears fiercely, straightened up, and pulled Avyuktha fully into her arms, turning sharply toward Arnav, fury blazing in her eyes as she said, “Tujhe wahan rehne ki zarurat nahi hai ab. Tu aur Aaru mere saath chaloge. Chal.” Her grip tightened around Avyuktha’s hands, protective and possessive.

Arnav’s voice cut through the air, firm and unwavering. “Dekhiye… Avu kahin nahi jaayegi. Meri bacchi mere saath jaayegi. Kindly leave her hand.”

Trisha snapped instantly.

“Ye sab nautanki mat kariye ab, samjhe?” she scoffed, pulling Avyuktha closer. “Meri bacchi…”

Trisha lifted her head slowly.

Her eyes blazed with a fury so sharp it felt almost physical, like standing too close to a fire. This wasn’t loud anger. This was controlled, lethal rage, the kind that comes when someone crosses a line they can never uncross.

“Ye cheez,” she said evenly, every word weighed and deliberate, “ek baar ek barah saal ki bacchi ko bura-bhala bolne se pehle sochni chahiye thi, samjhe aap?”

Her gaze never wavered.

“Kaunse haq se bol rahe hain aap?” Her jaw tightened. “Ek bacchi ko itni ghatiya baatein bolte hue sharam nahi aayi aapko?... Pehle usko marne ke liye chor diya... Aur jab leke gye hai... Tb bhi usse dhang se nhi rakh rhe... Insaan nhi haiwaan hai aap... Apki wajah se meri Maa ki zindagi toh barbaad ho hi gyi... Mai ab aapko meri bacchi ki zindagi nhi barbaad karne dungi. ”

Her voice didn’t rise, didn’t shake but the anger burning in her eyes was terrifying, the kind that promised consequences. Trisha stood there like a lioness shielding her cub, her body subtly angled in front of Avyuktha, one arm firm around her, as if daring anyone to try and come closer.

“Koi ehsaan karne ki zarurat nahi hai meri bacchi pe,” she continued, cold and unyielding. “Zinda hai uski Tai abhi.” Her eyes hardened further. “Aur khayal rakh legi uska.”

She didn’t move. Didn’t blink.

She stood rooted, fierce and immovable, eyes locked onto Arnav’s with a warning so clear it needed no words she would destroy anyone who tried to hurt Avyuktha now. No hesitation. No mercy.

Not today.
Not ever.

Arnav froze.

The intensity in Trisha’s eyes stopped him cold. The way she stepped in
..swift, instinctive, absolute made it feel as though he had committed an unforgivable crime. Her gaze locked onto his, fierce and unyielding, as if daring him to move an inch closer to Avyuktha.

Even though he had done nothing wrong.

Still, under that burning, protective fury, Arnav felt like someone who had crossed a line, one he hadn’t even known existed.

Seeing the glare harden between Trisha and Arnav, Avyuktha panicked. She immediately stepped forward, clutching Trisha’s hand tighter and blurting out hurriedly, “Tai Tai… ye Bhaiya hai mere… papa nahi…” Her voice trembled with urgency. “Bhaiya bahot ache hai, Tai… sacchi.”

Trisha froze.

She looked down at Avyuktha, startled by the desperation in her tone, and Avyuktha rushed on before anyone could interrupt her. “Bhaiya bahot ache hai, Tai… ekdum aapke aur mumma ki tarah… sacchi.” Her eyes shone with sincerity as she continued, “Mera aur Aaru ka bahot dhyaan rakhte hai… aur jab papa ne mere baare mein bura bura bola na… Bhaiya ne unhe ghar se bhi nikal diya, sacchi.”

Trisha’s grip on Avyuktha loosened slightly as she lifted her gaze to Arnav again, the fury still there, but softened now by hesitation. Avyuktha didn’t stop, her words tumbling out, her need to make Trisha understand overwhelming her. “Papa bahot bure hai, Tai… unhe ladkiyan pasand nahi… unhone sirf mujhe nahi, didi ko bhi bahot bura bura bola.” She shook her head firmly. “Lekin Bhaiya bahot ache hai, Tai… bahot dhyaan rakhte hai hum sab ka… vo aise nahi hai.”

Trisha swallowed hard and asked quietly, “Tu sach bol rahi hai na, Avu?”

Avyuktha nodded instantly, almost offended at the doubt. “Haan, Tai… Bhaiya sacchi mein bahot ache hai.” Then her eyes widened with wonder as she added, “Aapko pata hai… vo mujhe apne haath se khilate hai.” She paused, genuinely amazed, as if still processing it herself. “Haan, sacchi.” Someone feeding her gently, not throwing food at her the way her maami used to, it was still unbelievable to her.

She went on, her voice softer now, warmer. “Mujhe pyaar se sulate bhi hai… mujhe bahotttttt saara pyaar bhi karte hai.”

Suddenly, she turned and pointed excitedly at Anvi and Maan. “Aur...Aur ye mere didi bhaiyu hai.” She beamed proudly. “Ye bhi mujhse aur Aaru se bahot pyaar karte hai… sacchi… bahot saara pyaar.”

Her excitement bubbled over as she squealed, speaking faster than her tongue could keep up. “Aapko pata hai, aaj hum log shopping pe gaye the… Didi ne toh poori dukaan ke kapde khareed liye mere aur Aarush ke liye.” She laughed, clapping her hands. “Matching shoes bhi liye hum dono ne… aur phir cafeteria mein burger bhi khilaya.” She leaned in conspiratorially. “Aaru ne itne toys le liye na… sach bataun toh hum log ek alag se market khol sakte hai.” Her eyes sparkled. “Aur Bhaiya ne mana bhi nahi kiya.”

She looked back at Trisha, cheeks flushed, joy spilling out of her. “Vo sacchi mein bahot ache hai, Tai… aur main bhi unse bahotttttt zyada pyaar karti hoon.” Her voice softened fondly as she added, “Vo hamesha bolte hai...‘Bhaiya’s Avu is the best.’”

Avyuktha giggled, then said proudly, “Unhone mere liye gaana bhi banaya hai. Jab bhi mera mood kharab hota hai na, vo gaana gaane lagte hai… aur mera jhatt se mood theek ho jaata hai.” She spread her arms wide. “Sab bahot ache hai, Tai… aur main bahot, bahot, bahottttttt zyada khush hoon. Sacchiii.”

She squealed with happiness, words tumbling over each other in pure excitement, the love in her eyes unmistakably real.

Trisha watched her silently, a soft smile slowly breaking through her tears, because no child who had known only fear could speak like this unless she had finally found safety.

Trisha leaned down and pressed a gentle, loving kiss on Avyuktha’s forehead, her eyes soft as she smiled at her. A trace of embarrassment crept over her when she finally noticed Arnav. He looked almost too young to be a father to a twelve-year-old. Realising it only now, she hesitated, then spoke with a quiet, apologetic expression. “I’m sorry… maine vo galat samajh liya…” she whispered, her voice filled with genuine regret.

Arnav’s expression softened instantly. He looked at her, really looked at her, and saw the fierceness and love she held for Avyuktha, the protective instinct that matched his own in some ways. He smiled slightly and said, “It’s okay… it was a misunderstanding.”

Then, extending his hand politely, he introduced himself, “Arnav Jaisingh.”

Trisha took his hand, her smile gentle and sincere. “Trisha Singh… Nice to meet you.”

Arnav returned the smile, feeling the warmth and sincerity in her gesture.

From beside Avyuktha, Kashi stepped forward with a grin that seemed almost too big for his small frame. “I’m Kashish Singh… by the way, Avyuktha’s one and only best friend.” Without hesitation, he leaned down and touched Arnav’s foot in a respectful gesture, seeking his blessings.

Arnav froze for a moment, surprised. Earlier, he had thought this boy was just a brat, cursing and shouting freely. But seeing him now, humble and earnest in this gesture, made him look more cute than arrogant. And then Arnav remembered, the way Kashi had placed himself protectively between him and Avyuktha earlier, his tiny body brimming with courage.

A small, almost affectionate smile touched Arnav’s lips as he placed a hand lightly on Kashi’s head. “Khush reh, baccha.”

Kashi’s grin widened, the pride and joy in his eyes unmistakable. “Aap mujhe Kashi bulana… mera nickname hai… okay?”

Arnav chuckled softly, leaning down to ruffle his hair, a gesture both playful and protective. The tension of the earlier confrontation melted, replaced with a quiet warmth and mutual respect that radiated silently between them.

Avyuktha watched all of it, a small, satisfied smile tugging at her lips, her heart full seeing the people she loved slowly finding a peaceful rhythm together.

Avyuktha bounced slightly on her heels, tugging Kashi forward. “Kashi, ye mere bhaiyu aur didi hai…” she said proudly, motioning to Maan and Anvi.

Kashi’s face lit up immediately, his grin stretching from ear to ear. “Avu… tu Angel ki behen hai! Oh God!” he exclaimed, eyes wide with excitement and wonder. Without a second thought, he bent down and touched Anvi’s feet in the same respectful, reverent way he had with Arnav.

Anvi stepped back lightly, laughing and shaking her head. “Are are… khush reh, Avyuktha’s one and only best friend.” She gave him a small, amused smile, clearly charmed by his antics.

But then his gaze shifted to Maan. The moment their eyes met, Kashi’s wide grin vanished almost instantly. His enthusiasm flatlined, and he held out his hands stiffly. “I’m Kashish… it was… okay meeting you.”

Not even a “nice to meet you,” just flat, awkward, stiff.

Maan blinked at him, one eyebrow raised, and shook his head in disbelief. He took Kashi’s hand, letting the awkward handshake linger just long enough to make the boy squirm slightly. “Okay…” Maan muttered under his breath, his glare sharp but amused.

Avyuktha frowned, crossing her arms as she looked between Kashi, Maan, and Anvi. “Tujhe bhaiyu se kya dikkat hai… aur aapko Kashi se kya dikkat hai bhaiyu… aur tu didi ko Angel kyun bol raha hai? Tu pehle mila hai kya inse?”

Kashi grinned sheepishly and nodded. “Aree haa… aaj hi cafeteria mein mila tha. Vo… mai na Andhakasur se takra gaya tha aur meri tray fir gyi… toh Angel pyaar se mujhse pucha, ‘Tujhe kahi lagi nhi na?’… Kitni pyaari hai... Ekdm angel jaisi isliye mai angel bolta hoon inhe.”

Avyuktha’s brows knit in confusion. “Andhakasur?”

Kashi nodded confidently. “Haa… tere bhaiyu.”

Maan’s eyes narrowed, voice sharp. “Oye shaitaan… ye Andhakasur kya laga rakha hai? Tu mujhse takraya tha… mai nahi!”

Kashi’s expression hardened. “Aap mujhse takraye the…”

Maan threw up his hands, incredulous. “Tu takraya tha… tu hi pata nahi kaha dekh ke chal raha tha, aur aake mujhse bhid gaya!”

Kashi folded his arms and repeated, with mock seriousness, “Aap mujhse takraye the.”

Before it could escalate further, Arnav and Trisha both intervened, Trisha said calmly “Aree… mall ki baat mall mein khatam karo!”

Arnav added calmly, “Haa… chalo chalo, ache se haath milao.”

Both Kashi and Maan protested at the same time. “Baccha thodi hoon mai!”

The others chuckled at the absurdity. Kashi exhaled sharply, rolling his eyes, and said with mock magnanimity, “Dekh Avu… sirf tere liye… mai maaf kar deta hoon inhe.”

Maan scoffed, shaking his head. “Maafi mangi kisne bey, tujhse?”

Kashi waved a dismissive hand. “Haa… toh battameez ho aap, toh mai kya karu… jao, maine phir bhi maaf kiya. Aap bhi kya yaad rakhoge.”

As Maan opened his mouth, ready to argue again, Kashi suddenly leaned down and touched his feet in a gesture of respect, acknowledging him as Avyuktha’s elder brother. Maan froze for a moment, caught off guard, before hesitantly ruffling Kashi’s hair. “Khush reh… Bhagwan sadbuddhi de tujhe.. Aur teri aakho mai roshini de.”

Avyuktha clapped her hands, stepping in eagerly. “Bhaiyu, didi… ye meri Tai hai!”

Both Maan and Anvi bent down respectfully, touching her feet.

Trisha’s eyes widened slightly at the gesture.

She had seen rich kids before...entitled, loud, wrapped in privilege and arrogance like armour. She had expected the same here. But Maan and Anvi looked nothing like that. There was no impatience in their faces, no superiority in their posture. Only quiet kindness, a little nervousness, and an innocence that hadn’t been hardened by wealth.

The way they had bowed their heads so instinctively, with such effortless respect, melted something inside her. It wasn’t rehearsed. It wasn’t for show. It was genuine.

Her gaze flicked briefly to Avyuktha, understanding settling deep in her chest. The child was safe here. More than safe, she was cherished.

Trisha reached out, placing her hands gently on Maan’s and Anvi’s shoulders, her touch warm and certain.
“Khush raho, baccho.”

Both Maan and Anvi smiled warmly. Anvi’s grin turned cheeky. “Main Anvi Jaisingh… aur ye Abhimaan Jaisingh. Aap pyaar se mujhe Chutki ya Anu bula sakti hai… aur inhe Maan ya Suar… inhe Suar zyada pasand hai vaise.”

Everyone chuckled at her teasing, the tension breaking completely.

Kashi, unable to contain himself, exploded into loud, infectious laughter, clutching his stomach. Maan ground his teeth, scowling, while Arnav, Trisha, and Avyuktha all chuckled at the lively chaos unfolding in front of them, feeling the warmth of this new, imperfectly perfect family.

Suddenly, a sharp, familiar sound pierced Avyuktha’s ears. Her eyes widened instantly, and she squealed, bouncing on her heels with pure joy. “KASHIII!”

Kashi, mid-laugh, froze as if someone had pressed pause on him. His head snapped toward the sound, eyes lighting up like fireworks. “AVUU!” he yelled, his voice echoing with the same excitement.
For a heartbeat, they just stared at each other, grinning impossibly wide, energy crackling between them.

And then, they both screamed, voices bursting out at the same time, unrestrained and full of exhilaration:
“BARAAATTTT!”

Avyuktha and Kashi clasped hands tightly, their eyes sparkling with uncontainable excitement, and bolted forward toward the baraat. Their laughter rang out like bells, high-pitched and infectious, echoing through the crowd.

Maan froze mid-step, eyes wide, and let out a horrified shriek. “AREEE! Vo meri behen ko bhaga le gaya!”

Everyone snapped their heads toward him, glaring, and the sheer force of their looks made him stumble backward slightly.

Maan’s voice turned frantic. “AREE! Vo dono bhaag gaye… CHALOOOOO!”

Arnav and Trisha dashed after them, the sound of their laughter carrying over the music. Not far behind, Anvi, Maan, and Aarush followed, dodging the occasional spinning dancers.

Arnav ran faster now, irritation bubbling just beneath his calm exterior, his jaw clenched as he muttered sharply under his breath, “Aaj ye ladki maar khayegi aaj mere hath se”

His eyes never left Avyuktha’s small, darting figure ahead of him,  “Pagalon ki tarah road pe bhaage jaa rhi hai...”

Arnav’s eyes caught the road teeming with baratis, but before he could step in, Trisha grabbed his wrist.

“Enjoy kr lene dijiye… phir ek saath daat diya jayega.” she muttered, a grin tugging at her lips.

She realized she had instinctively held Arnav’s hand, quickly withdrew it, muttered a soft “sorry,” and then let her gaze return to the spectacle ahead.

Avyuktha and Kashish were already in the middle of the road, moving with unstoppable energy. Arnav’s eyes softened as he watched her, saw her laugh so freely, so hard, that her face flushed with pure joy.

The beat of the music changed. A familiar, playful note hit the speakers, and the air seemed to vibrate with it:

🎶 “Are aaa re, aa re…Tere binaaa re, reh jaayenge hum kawaareeee.....” 🎶

Kashish pressed both hands to his chest, face twisted into exaggerated heartbreak, and circled around Avyuktha, bouncing lightly on his toes, shoulders swaying with the beat.

Avyuktha laughed at his drama, turning in place to keep up with him as the line repeated

🎶 “Are aaa re, aa re…Tere bina re, reh jaayenge hum kawaareeee” 🎶

Once again, Kashish spun around her, still clutching his chest, grinning wildly, completely committed to the role of the hopeless filmy hero.

🎶 “Are jaa re, jaa re…  Muh dhoke aa, humko na chuna laga reee” 🎶

Avyuktha flipped her hair back sharply, chin lifted, dismissed him with both hands, and began walking ahead with playful attitude, hips swaying and hair flipping in perfect filmy exaggeration.

The hook returned.

🎶 “Aa re, aa re…Tere bina re, reh jaayenge hum kawaare” 🎶

Kashish darted forward, caught her wrist theatrically, one hand still clutching his chest, singing along loudly. Avyuktha turned dramatically, shouting back

🎶 “Are jaa re, jaa re…Muh dhoke aa, humko na chuna laga reeeee!” 🎶

Her hand sliced the air for emphasis, and Kashish froze mid-pose, grinning at her exaggerated performance.

Then the next line came:

🎶 “Are oo phuljhadi, tu lovely badi…
Tumka bhi tera phataka hai” 🎶

Kashish bounced forward in two quick steps, hands lifted near his face, fingers fluttering like sparklers. On “tu lovely badi”, he pointed thumbs toward Avyuktha, nodding twice, chest puffed proudly. On “tumka bhi”, his hand shot forward, then slid back to his chest dramatically. On “tera phataka hai”, he clapped once, jumped lightly with arms flying up, landing in a wide-legged pose, one hand on his waist, the other still raised, grinning from ear to ear.

Avyuktha responded instantly:

🎶 “Abey oo Romeo, zara bachke raho…
Thumka nahi, ye dhamaka hai” 🎶

She stepped forward sharply, hand raised in warning, chin tilted with mock seriousness. She wagged her finger, slid a step sideways, shoulders rolling slightly. On “thumka nahi”, she turned over her shoulder, flicking her hair with a small, controlled sway of the hips. On “yeh dhamaka hai”, she stomped firmly, throwing both hands up and outward, pausing for a beat in perfect filmy stance.

The music then dropped hard, the beat exploding with energy:

🎶 “Are aa re, aa re… Tere bina re, reh jaayenge hum kawaare” 🎶
🎶 “Are jaa re, jaa re…Muh dhoke aa, humko na chuna laga re” 🎶

Avyuktha and Kashish interlocked elbows, spinning in tight circles, feet moving fast, almost tripping, laughing breathlessly. They broke apart, shot into the hands-behind-neck step, knees bending and straightening with quick hops, arms bouncing with the beat.

Then, on the high thumping beats, they went full bhagara, stomping, jumping, punching the air, shaking, spinning laughter spilling from every movement, energy unstoppable.

Even the baaratis stepped aside, clapping and cheering, letting the two kids dominate the road.

From the sidelines, Arnav, Trisha, Abhimaan, Anvi, and Aarush watched, grinning wide. Anvi was recording every wild move, phone shaking with laughter. Arnav and Trisha couldn’t help but admire how happy and free they looked.

Aarush, caught up in the madness, threw his hands up and down, dancing in Maan’s hold, wobbling slightly but grinning wildly. Maan laughed at the chaos, at Aarush flailing and at Avyuktha and Kashish spinning like little whirlwinds.

The music, laughter, and energy fused into one unstoppable storm, the kids completely lost in the joy of their crazy, filmy, high energy dance.

After dancing like absolute buffoons in the middle of the road...jumping, spinning, clapping off‑beat, shouting lyrics at the top of their lungs, their energy finally gave out.

Avyuktha and Kashi bent forward, hands on their knees, panting hard, faces flushed, hair a mess, laughter still bubbling out between breaths. The baraat moved ahead, drums fading slightly as the world seemed to catch its breath along with them.

That’s when they felt it.

A shadow fell over them.

Both of them straightened at the exact same time and froze.

Arnav and Trisha were standing right there.

Avyuktha’s eyes widened in slow horror. Kashi’s grin died mid‑breath. For a heartbeat, neither of them moved, as if pretending they’d suddenly turned into statues might save them.

It didn’t.

Trisha didn’t shout.
She didn’t scold.

She simply stepped forward, reached out, and caught both of them by their ears, one ear each.

“Chalo.”

“AAAHHH TAI!” Avyuktha yelped instantly, grabbing at her ear.
“AREY AREY AREY.... KAAN NIKAL JAYEGA!” Kashi howled dramatically.

Trisha tightened her grip just enough to make her point and dragged both of them straight from the middle of the road toward the sidewalk, heels clicking, expression calm but lethal.

“Tai lag rahi hai! Sach mein lag rahi hai.... Mereee kaan nikal jaynge.... Bina kaan ke kaise rahungi mai....Taiiiiiii!” Avyuktha cried, half‑laughing, half‑panicking.

“AAAHHH....MERI KISMAT HI KHARAB HAI!” Kashi shouted, hopping along, “Hayeee mere pyaare masoom kaaaaannnn!”

People from the baraat stared.
A few aunties nodded approvingly.

Behind them, Arnav followed...silent, arms by his sides, jaw tight but there was a very clear flicker of relief in his eyes. They were off the road. They were safe.

Trisha finally stopped at the sidewalk and released their ears with one sharp tug.

Both kids instantly clutched their ears, pouting, sulking, wincing.

Trisha leaned down to their level, eyes fierce, voice controlled.
“Pagal ho gye ho dono.... Bina dekhe bhagne lage the road pe... ”

Avyuktha sniffed, pouting
Kashi rubbed his ear and muttered, “Excitement mai bhool gye thoda...”

Trisha glared down at both of them, hands on her hips, eyes sharp enough to silence an entire baraat.

Avyuktha and Kashi instantly fell into step, pouting in perfect sync, lower lips pushed out, shoulders slumped like guilty kittens caught stealing milk.

“Tum log road pe bhaag rahe the,” Trisha scolded, voice tight with fear more than anger. “Agar abhi koi gaadi aa jaati toh? Haan? Kya karte tum dono? Dimaag bech diya hai kya?”

Both of them nodded solemnly, as if accepting the charge. Then, without missing a beat, they executed their tried, tested, and clearly over-used move.

They held their ears with both hands, bent their heads slightly, and spoke together, word for word. “Sorry, Tai… dobara aisa nahi karenge… pakka.”

Before Trisha could even react, they lunged forward and wrapped their arms around her waist in a tight hug.

Trisha inhaled sharply.
She didn’t hug back.
She didn’t move either.

They pulled away just enough to look up at her and then rose on their toes.

Smooch

A kiss on one cheek.

“Sorry na…”

Smooch

Another kiss on the other cheek.

“Ab maaf bhi kar do…”

Smooch Smooch

Two more exaggerated kisses, cheeks squished lovingly between their hands.

“Ab toh maaf kar hi do apne pyaare-pyaare bacchon ko…”

Every word, every gesture, perfectly in sync, like years of method acting, rehearsed drills, and emotional manipulation rolled into one deadly combination.

Trisha’s jaw clenched.
She tried to stay stern.
She really did.

Then she exhaled...long, helpless and shook her head.

Her shoulders finally softened.

Both Avyuktha and Kashi’s faces lit up instantly. Huge, victorious grins spread across their faces as they threw themselves at her again.

“THANK YOU TAIIIII!” they shouted, hugging her tightly.

A little distance away, Anvi’s mouth hung open, eyes wide in absolute disbelief.
She slowly turned to Maan and whispered, “Main isse tricks sikha rahi thi… mujhe toh isse seekhna chahiye.”

Maan burst out laughing, shaking his head. “Guru gud reh gaya… chela cheeni ban gaya.”

Anvi nodded, still stunned, as if witnessing a masterclass she hadn’t known existed.

While Arnav watched Avyuktha turn so carefree...pulling silly faces, making exaggerated gestures just to dissolve Trisha’s anger, softened something inside him. It was suddenly easy to see where Aarush had picked up his antics from.

Avyuktha and Kashi pouted together, wide puppy eyes glistening as they leaned in to press quick, apologetic kisses to Trisha’s cheeks. The sight was unbearably adorable.

Arnav found himself wishing....quietly, achingly, that one day Avyuktha would be this free with him too. That she would feel safe enough to be cheeky, to pout and bargain her way out of punishments, to tease him with that innocent charm.
He hoped that day would come soon.

But he didn't smile. He masked his emotions as the fury came back.

His gaze was fixed on Avyuktha...steady, dark, controlled but there was something simmering underneath. This was the second time today she’d run like a madwoman. The second time she’d almost been lost to a moment of carelessness.

He swallowed his anger, clenched his jaw, and spoke firmly, voice leaving no room for argument.

“Ghar chalte hain ab.”

Then, softer but heavier, calling her name “Avyuktha.”

Avyuktha looked up at Arnav, her excitement slowly settling into nervousness. His tone was firm, not angry but heavy enough to make her understand she was doomed. She nodded quietly.

Arnav then turned to Trisha, his voice calm and respectful. “Trisha aap dono bhi sath mai chaliye... I'll drop you...”

Trisha shook her head slightly.
“It's ok.....hum rickshaw se chale jayenge...”

Arnav immediately refused, a gentle firmness in his manner.
“Raat bahot ho gyi hai its already 9:30...aapko rishshaw nhi milega... Aap address bataiye.. We'll drop you...”

Trisha hesitated, unsure, when Kashi suddenly jumped in, eyes hopeful, voice full of excitement. “Tai chalo na bhaiya ke sath... Mai aur Avu baat bhi kar lenge... Pure 3 mahine baad mila hoon mai isse.... Please chalo na....”

Trisha looked at him, then at Avyuktha, who was already waiting eagerly for her answer. Finally, she sighed and agreed, giving Arnav the address.

Avyuktha immediately bounced on her toes, curiosity spilling out. “Ye hamare ghar se kitna door hai... Agar pass mai hua toh kitna mazza aayega... Humlog roz mil lenge”

Before anyone else could answer, Maan jumped in casually. “3 din lagega Avu... Vo bahot door rehta hai”

The excitement drained from Avyuktha’s face instantly. Her shoulders drooped.
“Itna door..”

Thwack.

Anvi smacked Maan’s arm sharply and scolded him before turning to Avyuktha with a reassuring smile.
“Nhi Avu... 10-15 min door hai walking distance..... Bhaiyu mazzak kr rhe the... Pass wale apartments mai hi rehta hai vo”

Avyuktha’s eyes lit up like fireworks.
“Sacchiiiii”

Anvi nodded, smiling at her excitement.

Both Avyuktha and Kashi jumped at the same time, unable to contain themselves.
“Kitna mazza aayega.... Mai tere ghar aa jaungi... Hum sb khoob masti karenge khoob mazza aayega”

“Ha haa khoob khela jayega..”

Arnav finally cut through the noise.
“Chale ab...”

He glanced at Trisha again, a small polite smile forming. “Ab toh sath mai chal hi skti hai aap... ”

Trisha nodded, and they all started moving toward the cars.

That’s when Kashi suddenly tugged at Arnav’s hand. Arnav stopped and looked down at him.

Kashi gestured for him to bend down a little. Arnav complied, and Kashi spoke hesitantly, guilt clear on his face.
“Bhaiya... I'm sorry... Maine aapko vo.... I'm sorry mujhe nhi pata tha aap Avu ke Bhaiya ho... Mujhe laga aap uska pareshan kr rhe ho isliye.... Sorry”

His voice wavered. The weight of what he’d said earlier pressed heavily on him. Arnav wasn’t just anyone, he mattered deeply to Avyuktha. And Avyuktha never disrespected the people he loved.

Arnav smiled softly, lifting Kashi’s face gently. “It's ok baccha... Lakin aise gaaliya nhi dete Kashi... It's very bad... Gaaliya de dene se you don't look strong.... Aur aage se gaali suni maine toh...”

The unfinished sentence was enough.

Kashi immediately shook his head.
“Nhi dunga sorry... Aapne maaf kiya? ”

Arnav smiled, ruffled his hair affectionately, and straightened.
“Haa... Chal ab.. Sb wait kr rhe hai”

Kashi nodded, relief washing over him.

In the car, Avyuktha and Kashi talked nonstop, voices overlapping, laughter spilling freely, hands moving animatedly as if three months of distance had to be covered in one ride. Their excitement filled the car so completely that it softened everyone around them.

From the front seats, Trisha and Arnav exchanged small smiles, watching the two children glow with happiness. It was the kind of joy that came only from reunion...pure, loud, unfiltered.

Maan, meanwhile, couldn’t help himself. Every once in a while, he poked Kashi just to annoy him. Kashi glared back, ready to retaliate, and Anvi instantly stepped in between them, playing peace-maker with dramatic sighs and warning looks.

Aarush, exhausted after the emotional evening, slowly crawled onto Trisha’s lap. The moment she wrapped an arm around him, he relaxed completely and, within minutes, fell asleep, cheek pressed against her, breathing even and calm.

Kashi leaned closer to Avyuktha and asked, “Tu konse school mai jaati hai Avu”

Avyuktha froze.

The excitement drained from her face for just a second. She didn’t know the answer. She didn’t know that her mami had cancelled her admission. She didn’t know which school she’d go to. Supplies had been bought, yes but nothing had been decided yet.

Before she could struggle for words, Arnav spoke from the front.
“ Malti Devi Memorial Academy... Ussi mai admission karwane ki soch raha tha mai”

For a brief moment, Kashi froze.

Trisha immediately smiled and said,
“Are... Kashi bhi ussi mai hai....”

Arnav looked surprised and impressed.
“Acha... Uska entrance toh bahot tough hota hai... Very good Kashi...”

He genuinely meant it. Arnav knew the reputation of the school well, its strict rules, difficult entrance exam, and the values it stood for. He knew why it existed, what it represented, and how hard it was to get in.

Kashi replied softly,
“Thank you”

But something was missing.

The usual excitement that always surrounded him wasn’t there. Anyone else would’ve been thrilled knowing their best friend might join the same school but Kashi looked uneasy.

Avyuktha, on the other hand, beamed.
“Wow... Hum dono same school mai jayenge... kitni achi baat hai ye... Tu mujhe entrance ke liye help krna na”

Kashi nodded.

Arnav noticed. His eyes flicked to the rear-view mirror, studying Kashi’s face, a slight frown forming but he didn’t say anything.

Soon, the car stopped outside Trisha’s apartment.

Trisha and Kashi got down, thanking Arnav for the ride. Kashi lingered, shifting his weight nervously, before finally looking up and asking quietly,
“Bhaiya... Mujhe aapse kuch baat krni thi”

Arnav nodded from inside the car.
“Bolo”

Kashi hesitated, then said,
“Aap do min bahar aao na...”

He turned to Trisha and told her to go ahead, that he’d come in a bit.

Arnav stepped out of the car.

Kashi swallowed and said,
“Bhaiya aap Avu ka admission uss school mai mat karwaiye please”

Arnav frowned slightly.
“Kyu baccha... Koi problem hai kya?”

Kashi hesitated, eyes lowered, then finally spoke, “Vo school acha hai Bhaiya mtlb teachers sb thik hai... Lakin Bhaiya school mai kuch bacche bahot bully krte hai mujhe... Kyuki mere parents nhi hai... Vo Avu ko bhi same same bolenge Bhaiya... Aap please uska admission kisi aur school mai krwa do”

Arnav stilled.

A different kind of anger rose in him...slow, controlled, dangerous.

“Tujhe bully krte hai.... Does trisha know about it?”

Kashi shook his head quickly.
“Nhi... Aap unhe mat batana please... She's already stressed... Abhi itni mehnat ke baad unki itni achi job lagi hai, Aapko pata hai she did something in her office aur company join krne ke sirf 1 mahine baad she got promoted...”

There was pride in his voice...pure, unquestioning pride.

He continued, “Isliya mai unhe pareshan nhi krna chahta... She's working very hard... Aap unhe mat batana... Aur please Avu ka kisi aur school mai admission krwa dijiye”

Arnav’s expression softened. He cupped Kashi’s face gently. “Baccha... Konsi guarentee hai ki dusre school mai Avu ko koi bully nhi karega... Aur reh gyi teri baat... Toh tum dono sath mai rahoge toh I know you both will be there for each other and tackle any bully...”

He couldn’t stop himself.

Arnav bent down and kissed Kashi’s forehead. “Aur mai parso jaunga Avu aur Aru ke admission ke baare mai baat krne... Tu mujhe bullies ke naam bata... I'll take care of the rest”

Kashi opened his mouth to protest, but Arnav cut him off gently.  “Teri Tai ko nhi bataunga... Ye sirf hum dono ke beech rahega... Okay”

Kashi nodded and told him the names.

Arnav went still at one name. He exhaled slowly. “Are you sure... Sb yhi the”

Kashi nodded.

“Okay... I'll deal with them okay”

Relief flooded Kashi’s face. He smiled, eyes shining. “Thank you bhaiya... Aap sacchi mai bahot ache ho”

He hugged Arnav tightly.

Arnav hugged him back, then pulled away, gave him his number, and reminded him he could call anytime, for anything, even just to talk to Avyuktha.

They said good night.

Arnav got back into the car.

And soon after, the car rolled into the quiet gates of the Jaisingh mansion.

___________________________________________

Thanks so much for reading this chapter

I’d really love to know what you felt while reading it, how did the chapter come across to you overall? What are your thoughts on Kashish and Trisha as characters, and how did their presence feel alongside Avyuktha? I’m especially curious about how you see the bond they share with her, and also with Arnav.

This chapter was written with a lot of warmth and innocence in mind, the kind that slowly turns into unexpected chaos, so your thoughts and interpretations genuinely matter to me.

Avyuktha's punishment in the next chapter. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what consequences would suit her actions. I’d love to hear your ideas on what you think would have fit her situation best.

Thank you for being here, for reading patiently, and for sharing this journey with me. Your support means more than I can put into words