Karan was sprawled over her, his body pressing her gently into the mattress, his weight both grounding and overwhelming. Suchitra’s hand slid up to his chest, her palm resting against the steady thrum of his heartbeat as she tried to nudge him away.

Suchitra (whispering with a breathless laugh): Karan, move… someone’s at the door.

But Karan didn’t budge. Instead, he continued trailing feather-light kisses along her neck, brushing down to her collarbone, each touch leaving her breathless.

Suchitra (softer, almost pleading): Karan?

He groaned low against her skin, his lips still lingering as if refusing to let go.

Karan (grumbling with mock annoyance): Really? Out of all the times… do people in this world only choose this exact moment to knock?

Her giggle bubbled out, light and uncontrollable. He lowered his face into the curve of her neck, his warm breath brushing her skin.

Karan (teasing, voice husky, nuzzling her neck): You escaped this time, Mrs. Dhillon. But don’t forget—I’ll take my kiss later. With interest.

The vibration of his words sent a shiver down her spine, making her stomach flip. She closed her eyes for a second, trying to steady her heartbeat.

With deliberate slowness, Karan pushed himself up, dropped a lingering peck on the side of her neck, and finally stood. Straightening his shirt, he strode downstairs, his face carrying the kind of mock seriousness only he could pull off.

The moment he opened the door, his expression changed into a playful glare. Standing there, grinning like she had caught the world’s funniest secret, was Saundarya.

Karan (muttering under his breath): Of course… here comes the unwanted guest. The Kabab mai haddi.

Saundarya (grinning wider): Did I… disturb something?

Karan arched an eyebrow, a sarcastic smile tugging his lips.

Karan (dramatic politeness): Disturb? You? Oh, never. This is like North Pole and South Pole—so far apart, no connection at all. How could you ever disturb?

Saundarya brushed past him into the house, smirking.

Saundarya (teasing): Yeah, yeah. Save the sarcasm. Anyway, where’s Suchii?

Karan stuffed his hands into his pockets, tilting his head with exaggerated calm.

Karan (casually lying): Suchii…? Oh, she left with Mumma.

Saundarya (curious): Where did they go?

Karan (smoothly): Bade Papa isn’t well, so both of them rushed off. It’s barely been ten minutes since they left.

Saundarya frowned, nodding slowly.

Saundarya (suspiciously): So… you’ll go to the party alone?

Karan pulled a long face, exaggerating his sadness.

Karan (mock sulk): Haan… what else can I do? All alone, abandoned by my own wife—

Before he could finish, a familiar voice floated down the stairs.

Suchitra (calling out): Karan, who is it?

Karan froze mid-sentence, his eyes widening comically. He turned, spotting Suchitra walking gracefully down the staircase in her home attire, completely unaware of the drama he was weaving. Then he turned again to see Saundarya glaring at him with her arms folded.

Saundarya (accusing): Didn’t you just say Auntie and Suchii left? Then what is she doing here?

Both women’s eyes were now fixed on him. Karan raised his palms in surrender, giving a helpless shrug.

Karan (deadpan): Details, details… why get stuck on them? Anyway, what are you doing here?

Saundarya (dramatic sigh): Don’t act smart, Machhan. Today is Meghna di and Arjun jiju’s anniversary, remember? I came here to get ready with Suchii.

Karan leaned against the doorframe, smirking.

Karan (mock serious): You could’ve gotten ready at your own house. And isn’t that neighbor of yours always hanging around to drop you places?

At that, Saundarya’s face twisted with annoyance.

Saundarya (snapping): Don’t even take that monkey’s name!

Karan blinked.

Karan (confused): Monkey? What happened now?

Saundarya (rolling her eyes, frustrated): That idiot played bhajans the whole night. I didn’t sleep a wink. Hanuman Chalisa on repeat! Over and over again. I swear, my ears are still ringing.

Suchitra burst into laughter, her hand covering her mouth.

Suchitra (teasing): Poor Saundarya, kept awake by divine devotion!

Saundarya pouted dramatically, while Karan bit back a laugh, shaking his head.

Suchitra (smiling warmly): Okay, okay. First, let’s eat something. Then we’ll start getting ready.

Karan (relieved, patting his stomach): Finally! Someone remembered I’m starving.

.....

After lunch.

Karan was in their bedroom, pacing back and forth with a shopping bag in his hand. He placed it on the bed, frowned, then picked it up again.

Karan (muttering to himself): Should I keep it on the bed?

(He shook his head almost immediately.)

Karan (thinking): No, no.

He walked to the dresser and placed it there, then paused again.

Karan (whispering): Or maybe on the dresser? Hmm…

(He sighed, scratching his head.)

Karan (frustrated but amused): God, why is this so difficult?

He glanced at the bathroom door.

Karan (half whispering, half thinking aloud): Maybe I should keep it in the bathroom. She’ll definitely go there while getting ready.

(He suddenly froze and shook his head, scolding himself.)

Karan (dramatic, under his breath): No, no, Karan… have you lost your mind? What if she thinks I’m crazy hiding things in the bathroom?

Before he could make another move, the bedroom door creaked open. Suchitra walked in, wiping her hands with a towel—clearly she had come straight from the kitchen.

Karan’s eyes widened, and he panicked. In one swift move, he hid the bag behind his back, trying to look casual.

Suchitra (narrowing her eyes, suspicious): What are you hiding?

(She folded her arms and tilted her head.)

Suchitra (teasing): Don’t tell me you’re up to something.

Karan gave an awkward laugh, shifting his weight from one foot to the other.

Karan (stammering): N-no… nothing at all! Just… umm… cleaning.

(He mentally slapped himself for such a bad excuse.)

Suchitra took a step closer, her gaze sharp and playful.

Suchitra (smirking): Cleaning? With both hands behind your back? That’s interesting.

(She suddenly glanced sideways at the mirror. The reflection betrayed him completely—the bag was visible.)

Karan froze as his ears turned crimson. He quickly brought the bag forward, scratching the back of his neck like a guilty child.

Karan (sheepish, soft): Fine… you caught me. I was hiding this.

Suchitra raised an eyebrow, trying hard not to smile.

Suchitra (curious): What is it?

Karan handed it to her carefully, almost shyly.

Karan (sincere, with a small smile): It’s for you. I thought… if you wear this tonight at the party, it will look even more beautiful. Because it’ll be you wearing it.

Suchitra felt warmth spread across her cheeks. She puffed them slightly, lowering her gaze to hide her blush. She touched the bag delicately, her lips curving into a small smile.

Suchitra (softly, teasing but touched): You could have just given it to me, you know. No need for all this drama.

Karan (grinning nervously): Drama? Excuse me, this was a well-planned operation. But someone turned out to be a very skilled detective.

Suchitra giggled, shaking her head.

Suchitra (playful): Well, I’ve learned to keep an eye on you. Who knows what you’re up to otherwise?

Karan chuckled, picking up his clothes from the wardrobe.

Karan (playful but gentle): Go on, open it later and get ready. I’ll… get dressed in the guest room. Less chance of me being interrogated there.

Suchitra rolled her eyes but smiled softly as she held the bag close to her chest, her heart fluttering at his thoughtfulness.

Karan had just finished getting ready in the guest room. Adjusting the cuffs of his Tuxedo, he ran a hand through his hair once, giving himself a quick look in the mirror before stepping out. He knew Saundarya was still occupied with her own preparations in guestroom, so there would be no interruption if he checked on Suchitra.

He pushed open the door to their bedroom and froze for a second.

There she was.

Suchitra stood before the mirror, her saree draped beautifully, but her brows were furrowed in concentration. One hand tried to hold her pallu in place while the other fumbled with a safety pin, her movements stiff with frustration. She bit her lower lip, clearly annoyed.

Karan’s lips curved into a faint smile as he leaned against the doorframe for a heartbeat, just watching her. Then, slowly, he walked up behind her, his presence filling the space before his voice, low and steady, finally reached her.

Karan (gently): Give me… I’ll do it.

Startled, her gaze instantly flickered to the mirror, catching his reflection as he moved closer. Their eyes met in the glass, her heartbeat skipping at the warmth in his stare.

Suchitra (softly, hesitant): Will you… be able to?

Karan (a quiet chuckle): Of course. I’ve helped Mumma with her saree more times than I can count. Don’t underestimate me.

She exhaled, almost in relief, and silently handed him the safety pin. His fingers brushed hers as he took it, sending an unexpected shiver racing up her arm.

Carefully, Karan slid the fabric into place, his cold fingertips grazing the bare skin near her shoulder as he secured the pallu to her blouse. Suchitra’s breath hitched. Her eyes fluttered shut, her hand tightening slightly on the edge of the dresser for balance.

Karan noticed. Oh, he noticed everything.

His gaze lingered on her reflection—on the way her lashes trembled, on the way her lips parted unconsciously as if trying to hold back a sound. Something primal stirred within him, pulling him closer before he could stop himself.

When the pin was fixed, he didn’t step back. Instead, he let his hand rest lightly on her shoulder.

And then, softly, almost teasingly, he bent down.

His lips brushed the slope of her shoulder.

Suchitra (whispering, breath uneven): K-Karan…

But he didn’t stop. His mouth trailed slowly upward—feather-light kisses along her shoulder, then to the delicate hollow of her collarbone. She drew in a sharp breath, her knees weakening beneath her.

He pressed another kiss to the side of her neck, lingering, savoring. The faint scent of her perfume mingled with the warmth of her skin, intoxicating.

Her head tilted slightly to the side, almost involuntarily, as if giving him more access.

Suchitra (trembling, whisper-plea): Please…

Her voice was breathless, a mix of protest and surrender.

Karan smiled against her skin, a low hum vibrating from his throat. He moved higher, his lips brushing her jawline now, each kiss making her grip the edge of the dresser tighter.

Finally, he leaned close to her ear, his breath hot against her skin.

Karan (husky, teasing): Shall we go? Saundarya must be waiting…

Her eyes snapped open at his words, her chest rising and falling rapidly. She dared to glance at the mirror again. Her cheeks were crimson, her lips parted, and her eyes—shy, dazed, and glowing.

She quickly stepped forward, trying to compose herself, her gaze firmly dropping to the floor.

Suchitra (muttering, flustered): You’re impossible.

Karan’s teasing smile widened as he followed behind her, his stride unhurried.

Karan (grinning, playful): Impossible? Maybe. But you still let me help you, didn’t you?

She bit her lip, not answering, which only made his grin deepen. He trailed a step behind her, enjoying the sight of her walking quickly, almost fleeing, her shyness written in every gesture.

Karan (softly, almost to himself as he watched her): God… she doesn’t even know what she does to me.

And with that, he followed her out of the room, still wearing that teasing smile.

Their Outfit...



(I wanted to use this picture for so long 😭)

The car pulled up in front of the beautifully decorated lawn, fairy lights cascading down the entrance like glimmering stars. Laughter and soft music filled the air. Karan stepped out first, Wearing his coat, adjusting cuffs, came to her side offer his hand to Suchitra. She accepted it shyly, her saree shimmering under the golden lights. Saundarya followed behind them, fixing her earrings as she walked.

The moment they entered, a familiar voice echoed through the crowd.

Arjun (grinning wide, teasing): Oye hoye! Just look at these two—what a sight!

He strode toward them with his usual confident gait, a wide smile plastered on his face, With Arhana in his arms. Beside him, Meghna came forward, her eyes lighting up as she saw the trio.

Meghna (smiling warmly): You both look absolutely stunning.

Karan smirked, adjusting his shirts collar as if her compliment was something he already expected.

Karan (in Punjabi, playful): Main kehya, sone lokanu sab sone hi lagde ne.

(I say, only beautiful people recognize beauty.)

Arjun burst out laughing and shot back immediately.

Arjun (in Punjabi, mock offense): Tainu chhad ke sab sone lagde ne mainu te!

(Everyone looks beautiful to me—except you, of course!)

Karan placed a hand dramatically on his chest, pretending to be wounded.

Karan (grinning): Oye, I was talking to bhabhi, not you!

Arjun’s jaw dropped in mock shock, while Meghna rolled her eyes at both of them.

Meghna (laughing, light slap on Arjun’s arm, in Punjabi): Tusi vi na! Always fighting like kids.

Suchitra chuckled quietly beside them, watching the playful banter unfold. Saundarya meanwhile had spotted baby Arhana in Arjun’s arms and instantly squealed.

Saundarya (softly, excited): Oh my god, look at her! Aloo baby!

Hearing her nickname, little Arhana’s head turned, and the second she saw Suchitra and Saundarya, her face lit up. The baby broke into the most adorable giggle, stretching her tiny arms toward Suchitra.

Suchitra (melting, holding out her hands): Oh, come here, sweetheart. Missed your chachi, hmm?

Arjun grinned as he gently handed the baby to her.

Arjun (fondly): She’s been restless since morning. Guess now we know why—she was waiting for her favorite chachi.

Suchitra’s heart swelled. Arhana immediately grabbed her earrings and gave them a tiny tug, making everyone laugh.

Karan (pretending to scold): Oye, careful little princess, these aren’t toys.

Suchitra (giggling): Karan, let her be—she’s just exploring.

Arjun (grinning): Haan haan, now you’ll take her side too. Bas, ab toh Aloo baby ke liye hum sab second place pe hain.

Meghna chuckled, shaking her head at her husband’s antics.

Meghna (smiling kindly): You all go enjoy the party, please. We’ll take care of the rest.

She gave Arjun’s arm a nudge to pull him away from Karan’s teasing grin.

Meghna (to Arjun, laughing): Come on, mister sarcasm, leave them alone for a while.

Arjun groaned but followed her as she walked off, muttering something about “nobody appreciating good humor these days.”

Suchitra cradled Arhana close to her chest, the baby now resting her cheek against Suchitra’s shoulder. Karan’s eyes softened as he looked at them—his wife glowing under the party lights, holding a baby in her arms like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Karan (under his breath, smiling): Beautiful…

Saundarya (teasing, overhearing): The baby or the wife?

Karan looked at her with a mock glare but didn’t deny it.

Karan (playful, smirking): Both.

Suchitra’s cheeks turned pink, and she lowered her gaze, pretending to adjust Arhana’s tiny bow.

The party was glowing with laughter, light music, and chatter. At one corner, Suchitra sat comfortably beside Saundarya on a plush sofa, gently rocking little Arhana in her arms. The baby was silently drinking her milk, her small hands clutching the bottle as she blinked sleepily.

Across the hall, Karan stood near the bar counter with Arjun, Samksh, Parth, and his other friends laughing at something one of them said. The golden light reflected off his neatly styled hair, and his sharp eyes occasionally flickered toward Suchitra, though he didn’t realize she had already caught him looking twice.

Saundarya slid her chair closer to Suchitra, lowering her voice into a teasing whisper.

Saundarya (grinning): You seem to love babies so much, Suchi… why don’t you have one of your own?

Suchitra (pretending to glare): Dhatt pagal! What nonsense are you saying?

Saundarya stifled a giggle, covering her mouth.

Saundarya (smirking): Nonsense? I think I’m being practical. At the speed your train is moving, it’ll take years to reach the destination.

Suchitra’s cheeks flamed instantly. She opened her mouth to argue, but before she could say a word—

Meghna (joining, mischievous): She’s right, Suchi. Tujhe apne andar ki savitri ko sulana hoga aur sheela ko jagana hoga!

Both Suchitra and Saundarya turned to her in pure shock.

Saundarya (blinking): Wait—what did you just say?

Meghna (playing innocent): What did I say?

Anvi (grinning, walking in with a drink): You said exactly what I heard — “apne andar ki savitri ko sula aur Sheela ko jaga!.”

Suchitra’s jaw dropped, and Saundarya burst out laughing, clapping her hands together.

Saundarya (offering a high-five): You and I are twins of thought! I said the exact same thing to her earlier!

Meghna (smugly): My sister-in-law told me that line during my time, and trust me—it worked.

Anvi giggled and leaned closer to them.

Anvi (teasing): Honestly, they’re right, Suchitra Bhabhi. Look at you blushing like a teenager.

Suchitra covered her face with her palm, shaking her head in disbelief.

Suchitra (muttering): You all are impossible.

Saundarya (nudging her arm): No, we’re just experienced. Look there—

She pointed toward the bar where Karan stood. Tanya, was beside him, talking animatedly, tossing her hair every few seconds. Karan, however, only gave short replies, either nodding or smiling politely.

Saundarya (raising a brow): See that? He’s not even giving her proper attention, and still she’s putting in effort. Even through he's married, She isn't leaving. That’s what I mean, Suchi. Sometimes, effort speaks louder than words. You're his wife, He gives you his attention, Affection. Put efforts then why not you do it same?

Anvi (nodding): Exactly! Look at me and Parth. We’re just engaged, not even married yet, and still—we’ve already crossed that line.

Suchitra’s eyes widened.

Suchitra (gasping): Wait, what? You mean—?

Anvi (shrugging, playful): Well… yeah. We did it.

Suchitra (half whisper, half gasp): Then that means I’m the only one left behind?!

Meghna chuckled softly, sipping her juice.

Meghna (assuring): Don’t worry, Suchii. You’re not late. When Arjun and I got married—even though it was a love marriage—it still took us a while. It’s all about comfort and timing. But... (smirks) sometimes, a little push helps.

Anvi (serious tone): She’s right. If you don’t take the first step, Karan Veerji might think you’re uncomfortable with him. And then he might start maintaining distance. Then what will you do?

The thought made Suchitra go silent. Her gaze unknowingly drifted toward Karan again—his calm, composed face, his easy laughter, the way he occasionally ran his hand through his hair. She could still feel his cold fingertips brushing her shoulder from earlier when he pinned her pallu.

Saundarya (softly): See? You’re already lost thinking about him. Just imagine if you actually tried.

Suchitra blinked quickly, breaking her trance.

Suchitra (trying to sound casual): You all have lost your minds.

All three of them giggled like schoolgirls.

Then Meghna leaned forward and said, her tone turning gentle.

Meghna (smiling): Okay, give me the baby. She’s already asleep. I’ll take her to our room.

Suchitra nodded and carefully handed little Arhana into her arms. The baby stirred slightly but soon nestled against Meghna’s shoulder, asleep again.

Suchitra (softly): Be careful, she’s in deep sleep.

Meghna (smiling): Don’t worry, I’ve got her. Now you—start planning your next move.

She winked before walking away, leaving Suchitra red-faced while Saundarya and Anvi exchanged amused looks.

Saundarya (whispering teasingly): Operation “Sheela Mode” begins tonight.

Suchitra glared at her, but the smile tugging her lips betrayed