The next day, Anshika stood outside the auditorium, clutching her bag tightly. The nervous flutter in her stomach refused to settle, but Kartikey's words from the library echoed in her mind: "Risk lena seekho, Anshika." Taking a deep breath, she pushed open the door and stepped inside.
The hall buzzed with energy. Students were scattered around, some stretching, others practicing their moves. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and tension. Anshika's heart raced as she walked to the registration desk.
"Naam?" asked the senior at the desk, not looking up.
"Name?"
"Anshika Sharma," she replied softly.
The senior scribbled her name and handed her a slip. "Audition number 17. Practice karlo, tumhara number jaldi aayega."
"Practice, your chance will come soon."
She nodded, moving to a corner of the room. Pulling out her earphones, she played her music, letting the familiar rhythm calm her nerves. Dance had always been her escape, her sanctuary. But today, it felt different. She wasn't just dancing for herself; she was stepping out of her comfort zone, something she hadn't done in years.
Her thoughts drifted to her family. Her family had always emphasized academics over everything else. "Dance se career nahi banta," her grandfather would say. "Padhai pe dhyan do." While they appreciated her talent, they saw it as a hobby, not a priority. "Log kya kahenge?," had been a constant refrain in their household, and it had shaped Anshika's fears.
"There's no career in dance," "Focus on your studies." "What will people say?"
But Kartikey's words had struck a chord. She couldn't keep running away from what she loved.
"Number 17!" called out a voice, jolting her back to the present. She quickly stood up, smoothing her kurti. The spotlight awaited.
As she stepped onto the stage, the college dance teachers watched her with interest. The music began, and she closed her eyes, letting the melody guide her movements. Her feet glided across the floor with practiced ease, her expressions mirroring the story the song told. For those few minutes, she forgot about everything-her fears, her doubts, her family's expectations. It was just her and the dance.
When the music stopped, the hall erupted into applause. Anshika's chest heaved as she caught her breath, a small smile creeping onto her face. She had done it. As she left the stage, one of the teacher called out, "Impressive, Anshika. Welcome to round two."
Her smile widened. She had passed the first hurdle.
The next round's instructions came quickly. Each selected dancer was paired with a partner to prepare a duet performance for the final audition. Anshika waited nervously as the partners were being announced. Her name was paired with Aksh Mehra. She turned to look at him. Tall, lean, and exuding confidence.
"Hi, Anshika?" Aksh's voice broke her thoughts. He approached her with a friendly smile. "Looks like we're partners."
"Haan... um, I guess," she replied hesitantly.
"Relax, we'll figure it out," he said, sensing her discomfort. "Kal se practice shuru karte hain?"
"Should we start practice from tomorrow?"
She nodded, still unsure. Dancing with someone else, especially someone as confident as Aksh, was a challenge she hadn't anticipated.
"Can I get your number?" Aksh asked, "So we could schedule our practice."
"Haan... sure." she replied hesitantly.
They exchanged numbers and her mind raced with doubts as she walked out of the hall.
Kartikey was waiting outside the college entrance, leaning casually against his car. Spotting her, he straightened up, his eyes lighting up. "Kaisa raha?" he asked, walking towards her.
"How was it?"
"Aapko kaise pata?" she asked back, confused.
"How do you know?"
"Bas pata chal gaya." he answered, smiling softly at her.
"I just know."
"Main second round ke liye select ho gayi," she said after frowning a bit, a hint of pride in her voice.
"I got selected for the second round."
"I knew it." he said, grinning. "Ab second round ke liye ready ho?"
"Are you ready for it?"
"Haan... bas thoda nervous hoon," she admitted. "Partner ke saath dance karna hai, it's a guy."
"Yes... I'm just a little nervous," "We have to dance with a partner, it's a guy."
Kartikey's smile faltered for a fraction of a second, but he quickly recovered. "Ohh," he said, his tone neutral. "Par tumhe tension lene ki zarurat nahi hai. Tum manage kar logi."
"You don't have to worry. You'll manage."
Anshika nodded, though her nerves still lingered. Kartikey noticed her hesitation and leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "Anshika, tumhari strength tumhara dance hai. Kisi ke saath ho ya akeli, tum kar logi. Trust yourself."
"Anshika, your strength is your dance. With a partner or without, you'll do it."
His words, as always, carried a strange reassurance. "Thank you," she murmured.
"Chalo ab ghar chalo," he said, gesturing towards his car.
"Come on, let's go home now,"
Anshika hesitated for a moment, glancing at Kartikey and then back at the path leading to her flat. "Mein chali jaungi." she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"I will go."
Kartikey chuckled, brushing off her concern. "Mein chodd dunga, Anshika. Ab chalo, warna raat ho jayegi," he said, gesturing towards the car.
"I'll drop you, Anshika. Now come on, it's getting late."
She still hesitated, her hands tightening on the strap of her bag. "Main khud chali jaungi. Itna door nahi hai."
"I'll go on my own, it's not that far."
"Mujhse darr lag raha hai?" Kartikey teased, raising an eyebrow. "Tension mat lo, mein tumhe kidnap nahi karunga." Though I want to, so bad.
"Are you scared of me? Don't worry, I won't kidnap you."
A small smile tugged at her lips despite her reservations. Reluctantly, she got into the passenger seat after Kartikey opened the door for her. As they rode away from the campus, the cool breeze tangled her hair through the open window, and her thoughts grew restless.
The hum of the car and the rhythmic passing of streetlights offered a strange comfort. Anshika's mind, however, was a whirlwind of emotions as she looked out the window. Her thoughts shifted between the upcoming performance and the unexpected ways Kartikey's unwavering confidence in her was beginning to shape her own.
"Tum itni chup kyun ho?" Kartikey asked, breaking the silence. "Practice ke baare me soch rahi ho?"
"Why are you so quiet? Thinking about practice?"
"Haan," she admitted quietly. "Aksh ke saath dance karna... main comfortable feel nahi kar rahi."
"Yes, dancing with Aksh... I'm not feeling comfortable."
Kartikey glanced at her, his brows knitting briefly before his signature grin returned. "Tum bas apne dance pe focus karo. Aur agar kuch problem ho, tum mujhe bata sakti ho."
"Just focus on dancing. And if there's any problem, you can tell me."
His words, filled with a sincerity that was hard to ignore, settled some of her unease. She nodded slightly, a soft "Thank you" escaping her lips.
By the time they reached her building, the initial tension in her shoulders had eased a little. Kartikey stopped the car and turned to her, his eyes searching hers. "Stress mat lena, everything will be fine."
"Don't stress,"
Anshika stepped outside the car, her bag still clutched tightly. "Thank you and good night," she said softly, her voice carrying a mix of gratitude and lingering nervousness.
"Good night, go in" Kartikey replied, his grin softer now, as he waited for her to get inside safely.
Anshika felt his gaze and hesitated, glancing back at him briefly before turning towards the entrance. As Anshika stepped into the building, the warmth of the night air wrapped around her, but her thoughts remained far from calm. She glanced back at the entrance for one last time, her heart still fluttering from the moments with Kartikey. The sound of his car engine hummed in the distance, growing softer as he drove away.
Her thoughts were a mixture of apprehension and something she couldn't quite name. Perhaps, Kartikey's belief in her was the push she had been needing all along.
Anshika entered the quiet lobby of her building, the familiar scent of fresh paint and the soft lighting calming her senses. She walked to the elevator, her mind still tangled in the web of emotions Kartikey had stirred up. She had never been this vulnerable with someone before, and yet, Kartikey made it feel so natural. The way he had supported her, encouraged her, without any hidden motives-it was different from what she was used to.
As the elevator doors closed, she leaned against the wall, closing her eyes briefly. Why is it so hard for me to accept that someone like him could actually care for me? Her own insecurities gnawed at her. She wasn't the kind of girl who easily got attention, and definitely not from someone like Kartikey, who could have anyone. She had seen the girls who smiled at him, the ones who flirted openly. And yet, here he was, spending time with her, believing in her abilities. Is it just pity? Or something more?
The elevator reached her floor, and she stepped out, shaking off her thoughts. Her mind was still buzzing, but she knew there was no sense in overthinking it right now.
The next morning, Anshika arrived at the college dance studio for her first practice with Aksh. He was already there, stretching and chatting with a few other dancers. Spotting her, he waved her over with a friendly smile.
"Good morning, Anshika," he greeted cheerfully. "Shuru karein?"
"Should we start?"
"Good morning," she replied softly and nodded, still feeling a bit hesitant as she clutched her bag tightly.
"Relax," Aksh said, noticing her stiffness. "Tumhe comfortable feel karvaane ki zimmedari meri."
"It's my responsibility to make you feel comfortable."
His easygoing nature was disarming, and Anshika found herself nodding. They began discussing their routine, and Aksh took the lead, demonstrating a few steps. His movements were fluid and confident, a stark contrast to her hesitance.
"Dheere-dheere karte hain. Tumhe jo comfortable lage, uske accordingly adjust kar lenge." Aksh said reassuringly.
"Let's go slow. Whatever you feel comfortable with, we will adjust accordingly."
They practiced for hours, and Aksh's patience made it easier for Anshika to open up. His jokes and lighthearted attitude helped her relax, and she started enjoying the process. By the end of the day, they had a rough outline of their routine.
"Not bad," Aksh said, giving her a thumbs-up. "Tum jaldi seekh rahi ho."
"You are learning quick."
"Thanks," she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. For the first time in a while, she felt a flicker of pride in herself.
Meanwhile, Kartikey sat in the college cafeteria with his teammates, his thoughts drifting to Anshika. He couldn't shake off the unease he'd felt when she mentioned dancing with Aksh. His fingers absentmindedly drummed against the table as he replayed her words. "Why does it bother me so much? it's just a dance" he thought, clenching his jaw slightly. His teammates' laughter barely registered as he forced himself to focus, though his mind remained elsewhere.
"Kya soch raha hai?" Rahul asked, snapping him out of his thoughts.
"What are you thinking?"
"Kuch nahi," Kartikey replied, shaking his head. But his clenched jaw and distracted demeanor said otherwise. As he sipped his chai, his mind wandered back to Anshika. He tried convincing himself that his concern was purely about her stepping out of her comfort zone. And yet, the thought of her dancing with Aksh and their time together gnawed at him. "Let it go," he muttered under his breath, but his grip on the chai kulhad betrayed him.
"Nothing."
Throughout the day, Kartikey found himself scanning the campus, hoping for a glimpse of her. Group Meetings, football practice, even casual conversations with his teammates failed to hold his attention. By the evening, his irritation was palpable. He slumped into his car seat, after waiting to see her until the college gate finally closed. "Ek din mein itna busy ho gayi ki kahi nazar bhi nahi aayi," he muttered under his breath, the thought fueling his restless mood. "Yeh toh bas ek din tha," he thought grimly, his fingers tightening on the steering wheel. Letting out a frustrated sigh, he leaned back, the unresolved tension knotting in his chest. "Let it go," he told himself again, but his thoughts betrayed him-circling back to her yet again.
The next day, the auditorium buzzed with anticipation. It was the final round of auditions, and Anshika stood backstage with Aksh.
"Tension mat lo," Aksh said, noticing her fidgeting. "Tumne kal bohot achha kiya tha. Aaj bhi waise hi karna hai."
"Don't stress, you did really good yesterday. Just do the same today."
"Haan, pata nahi kyun, par nervous hoon," she admitted, her fingers fiddling with her ring.
"Yes, I don't know why, but I'm nervous."
"Sirf dance par dhyaan dena," Aksh said, his tone serious. "Apna best do, baaki chhodo."
"Just focus on dancing. Give you best, and then let it be."
His words calmed her, and she nodded, drawing a deep breath as their names were announced. When their turn came, they stepped onto the stage, and the spotlight enveloped them. Anshika felt her heart hammering in her chest, but as the music started, she let herself flow with the rhythm. Aksh's confidence was infectious, and his reassuring nod at the beginning gave her the final push she needed to let go of her inhibitions. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, every move a seamless blend of precision and emotion. Aksh's movements guided her, complementing her every step, while her expressions told a story that pulled the audience into their world. Her expressions mirrored the song's narrative with such intensity that it felt as though the melody coursed through her veins.
In the audience, Kartikey sat in one of the back rows in the dark, his sharp eyes never leaving the stage. He watched every moment of their performance, his jaw tightening slightly whenever Aksh stepped closer to Anshika during the choreography. Her grace captivated him, but the sight of her dancing so effortlessly with someone else stirred a mix of emotions he wasn't prepared to face.
Back on stage, for those few minutes, the world beyond the performance ceased to exist for Anshika. Her doubts and fears melted away as she lost herself in the music. As the final note played, their synchronized movements ended with a dramatic pose, and the hall erupted in applause. Anshika's cheeks flushed as she bowed alongside Aksh, the adrenaline and joy from their performance leaving her slightly breathless.
Backstage, the judges announced the selected dancers for the college dance community.
"Anshika Sharma and Aksh Mehra," one of the judges called out, and Anshika's heart leapt. Relief and pride surged through her, and for a moment, she couldn't stop smiling.
"We did it!" Aksh exclaimed, giving her a high-five.
As they left the auditorium, she spotted Kartikey leaning against a pillar, watching her with an unreadable expression. His arms were crossed, but his stance wasn't casual-he seemed to be waiting for her.
"Congrats," he said, walking up to her. There was a brief pause before he added, "Tumhara partner kaafi talented hai."
"Your partner is very talented."
"Aapne humara performance dekha?" she asked, a little surprised oblivious to the slight edge in Kartikey's voice.
"You watched our performance?"
"Haan, he's really good," Anshika said, after Kartikey nodded.
"Yes,"
"Good," Kartikey said, his smile not quite reaching his eyes. "Waise tumne bahut achha dance kiya. I'm proud of you."
"By the way, you danced really well."
The sincerity in his words made her heart flutter, and she looked down, suddenly shy. "Thanks," she murmured, feeling a mix of emotions, she couldn't quite name.
As Kartikey walked her to her class, his usual lightheartedness returned, but there was a new determination in his eyes. The sight of her smiling at Aksh and their camaraderie had sparked something in him. Anshika had taken a step forward, and Kartikey wasn't about to let her slip away.
🌻
The following morning, Anshika sat at the college library, her books spread out before her. The faint sunlight filtering through the tall windows illuminated the pages she was scribbling notes on. Despite her exhaustion from the dance auditions, her mind was focused on her academics. It wasn't just a matter of grades for her; it was about proving something to herself and meet the expectations of her family.
She had always been a topper, consistently excelling in her studies. Yet, that brilliance was shadowed by her constant self-doubt. Anshika often felt the weight of unspoken expectations.
"Tum bas apni padhai pe dhyan do," her mother would remind her. "Achha career aur izzat bohot zaruri hai, Anshika."
Despite the pressure, Anshika found solace in her studies. Academics had become her sanctuary, a space where she felt in control. She knew her family was not wrong in the expectations they had, and she wanted to make them proud more than anything else. And now, with her MBA, she was determined to secure a future that could help her rewrite the narrative for herself-a future where she is successful, she wanted to see that proud look on her mother and grandfather's face.
Her phone buzzed, pulling her out of her thoughts. It was a message from Kartikey.
Kartikey: "Library me chhupi ho ya cafeteria?"
"Where are you hiding, library or cafeteria?"
Anshika: "Library. Busy hoon."
"Library, I'm busy."
Kartikey: "Busy toh sab hote hain. 5 min ke liye aa jao, chai peene."
"Everyone is busy. Just come for 5 min, for tea."
Anshika's lips twitched into a faint smile as she typed back a quick refusal. Yet, within minutes, Kartikey appeared in front of her table, carrying two kulhads of chai.
"Main aa gaya tumhare paas," he said, setting the chai down. "Ab koi excuse nahi chalega."
"I came to you, now no excuse."
"Library me allowed nahi hai." she said, panicking a little.
"It's not allowed in the library."
"Shhh, koi nahi dekhega." he reassured her, sipping his tea peacefully, sliding into the chair opposite her.
"No one will see."
"Aapko pata hai na mujhe distraction pasand nahi hai," she said, in her soft resigned tone.
"You know na, I don't like distraction."
"Aur mujhe tumhari strictness pasand nahi hai," Kartikey quipped. "Aur thoda break lena zaroori hai. Tumhara dimaag overheat ho raha hoga."
"And I don't like your strictness, and it's important to take breaks. Your brain will overheat."
She rolled her eyes but reached for the chai. "Main overheat nahi hoti."
"I don't overheat."
"Haan, Tum toh robot ho na," he teased, his grin widening. "Lekin robot ko bhi recharge karna padta hai."
"Yes, you are a robot na, but robot also need to recharge."
Anshika took a sip of the chai, the warmth spreading through her. Kartikey had this uncanny ability to show up when she needed it the most, even if she wouldn't admit it.
"Chalo, ab tum padhai karo," Kartikey said a few minutes later, standing up and giving her a teasing smile. "Aur agar overheat ho jao, toh mujhe bula lena."
"Okay, now study and if you get overheated then just call me."
She shook her head, unable to stop the small smile that tugged at her lips as he walked away. His presence was a contradiction in her life-both a distraction and a source of strength.
Later that evening, Anshika found herself sitting with her friends, Priya and Meera, in the cafeteria. The trio had formed a bond over late-night study sessions and shared frustrations about professors' impossible deadlines.
"Toh... tum aur Kartikey? Kya scene hai?" Priya asked, her tone mischievous.
"Friendly nahi, kuch toh special hai," Priya countered, smirking. "Uski aankhon mein kuch aur hi dikhta hai tumhare liye."
"Not friendly, there's something special. There's something else in his eyes for you."
"Tum logon ko kuch bhi lagta hai," Anshika said, flustered. She changed the topic quickly, asking about their group project, but the lingering smiles on her friends' faces told her they weren't convinced.
"You guys keep thinking about anything."
The days passed in a blur of lectures, assignments, and dance rehearsals. Anshika found herself growing more comfortable in the dance community with the help of Aksh, whose easygoing demeanor made their practice sessions enjoyable.
One afternoon, after an intense rehearsal, Aksh offered to walk her to the library. They chatted about the choreography, and for the first time in a while, Anshika felt a sense of confidence in their routine. As they reached the library entrance, she spotted Kartikey standing near the steps, engrossed in a conversation with a teammate.
"Hi, Kartikey," Aksh said, waving as they approached.
Kartikey's eyes flickered to Anshika before settling on Aksh. "Hi," he replied curtly, his gaze sharp.
"Main chalta hoon," Aksh said, and Anshika nodded her head.
"I'll leave."
"Hmm...bye," she said quickly. Aksh nodded, bidding them goodbye, and Kartikey watched him leave, his jaw tight.
"Tumhara naaya best friend kaafi helpful lagta hai," Kartikey remarked as they entered the library together.
"Your new best friend seems really helpful."
Anshika frowned. "Woh sirf friend hai."
"He's just a friend."
"Sirf friend hai?" Kartikey's voice held a teasing edge, but his eyes searched hers, as if seeking reassurance.
"Just a friend?"
"Haan, sirf friend," she repeated firmly.
"Yes, just a friend,"
They settled into a quiet corner of the library, Kartikey leaning back in his chair while Anshika buried herself in her notes. Despite the comfortable silence, she could feel his gaze on her every now and then.
"Tum itni mehnat kyun karti ho?" he asked suddenly.
"You're already smart and talented, why do you take so much pressure then?"
Anshika hesitated, the question cutting deeper than she'd expected. "Kyunki... failure se darr lagta hai," she admitted softly. "Aur..." she halted, as she realized what she was doing. Why? Why am I telling this to him?
"Because... failure is scary. And..."
Kartikey sat there looking at her softly, he noticed the fear, her reluctance and the confusion in her eyes.
"Arrey, Tum tension mat lo," he said, changing the topic. "Tum mere saath mere papa ki company join kar lena." he joked trying to make her feel better.
"You don't have to worry about that, You can join my father's company with me."
Anshika forced a smile at his joke, trying to lighten the mood. "Haan kya?" she quipped, her tone playful but with a hint of sarcasm.
"Huh...what?"
Kartikey chuckled. "MBA toh kar hi rahi ho, aur talent toh tumhare paas already hai. Bas thoda confidence le aao, baaki sab main sambhal lunga." His grin was easy, but his words carried weight.
"You're doing MBA, and you already have talent. We just need a bit of confidence, I will take care of the rest."
Anshika shifted uncomfortably, feeling her cheeks flush. "Mujhe kisi ki help nahi chahiye," she muttered, her voice barely audible as she turned her focus back to her notes.
"I don't want anyone's help,"
Kartikey raised an eyebrow. "Help ki baat nahi hai, Anshika. Kabhi-kabhi support lena galat nahi hota."
"It's not about help, Anshika. It's not wrong to take support sometimes."
She avoided his gaze, pretending to scribble something in her notebook. "Main apne kaam khud karna prefer karti hoon." she said, her tone neutral.
"I prefer doing things on my own."
Kartikey leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his eyes studying her. "Tum har baat pe itna defensive kyun ho jati ho? Main bas mazak kar raha tha."
"Why do you get so defensive about everything? I was just joking."
Anshika felt a pang of guilt at his words but couldn't bring herself to respond. She didn't understand why she was feeling so exposed around him. "Main bas... focus karna chahti hoon," she said finally, hoping to steer the conversation. "Assignments bhi pending hain, aur exams bhi aa rahe hain."
"I just... I just want to focus. I have pending assignments and exams are also near."
Kartikey got up, grabbing his bag. "Main chalta hoon. Tum apna kaam khatam karo."
"I will leave. You can finish your work." She nodded, watching him walk away, his words lingering in her mind. For all his teasing, there was an undeniable warmth in his voice, one that made her feel seen-something she wasn't sure how to process.
As Kartikey walked away, his broad shoulders disappearing through the rows of bookshelves, Anshika felt a strange tug in her chest. His abrupt exit left her unsettled. She stared at the spot where he'd been sitting, her mind replaying their conversation. Had she upset him?
Her gaze drifted to her notes, but the words blurred on the page. She rested her chin on her hand, her brow furrowed. Kya main zyada rude thi? The thought of him being genuinely upset bothered her more than she cared to admit.
Her mind wandered back to the way he had looked at her earlier-his teasing, his concern, and then that slight hint of disappointment before he left. Woh bas mazak kar rahe the... aur maine unnecessarily defensive behave kiya. A wave of guilt washed over her.
She shook her head, trying to brush away the uneasiness, but it clung to her thoughts. Mujhe unse baat karni chahiye... par kaise? Main unse baat karu? Lekin kya kahun? Sorry bolna sahi hoga? Par agar kuch serious nahi tha, toh woh kya sochenge? Ki main unnecessary sorry bol rahi hoon? She sighed, slumping in her chair. Lekin agar woh genuinely hurt hain... toh?
Her fingers absentmindedly doodled on the corner of her notebook as she tried to come up with a plan. Shaking her head again, she stood up abruptly, gathering her notes and stuffing them into her bag. The library, which had felt so inviting a while ago, now felt stifling.
Anshika packed her bag, deciding she couldn't sit still any longer. As she walked out of the library, the cool evening breeze ruffled her hair, but her mind was far from calm. She played out a dozen scenarios in her head, each more awkward than the last.
By the time she reached her building, her resolve was firm. Kal unse baat karungi. Direct bolungi ki agar maine kuch galat bola toh I'm sorry. Simple, no overthinking.
She nodded to herself, trying to muster courage. But even as she took the elevator to her flat, her heart fluttered nervously. Kartikey's words echoed in her mind: "Kabhi-kabhi support lena galat nahi hota."
Woh mere liye itne considerate kyun hain? Aur mujhe unki baatein itni kyun affect karti hain? she wondered, her thoughts pulling her deeper into the maze of her emotions.
As she reached her flat, she leaned against the closed door, staring at the ceiling. Bas kal... casually baat karungi. Relax rehna hai bas.
But deep down, she knew she wouldn't be able to relax until she saw him again.
🌻
The next day, Anshika found herself walking to the college campus with a knot in her stomach. The morning sun seemed unusually bright, and yet, everything around her felt hazy-her thoughts swirling in every direction. She had decided, she would talk to Kartikey. Apologize. She had already rehearsed it in her mind a hundred times, but now that she was close to facing him, the nervousness was back in full force.
As she entered the college grounds, she spotted Kartikey practicing with his teammates. Her heart raced. This was her chance.
She took a deep breath and approached the field. As she got closer, Kartikey noticed her and gave her a quick nod before returning to his practice. Anshika hesitated, wondering if she should interrupt, but the urgency in her chest pushed her forward.
"Kartikey," she called softly, her voice barely reaching him over the sound of the ball being kicked.
He glanced at her, as she moved closer. "Kya baat hai, Anshika? Yahaan kaise?"
"What is it, Anshika? You here?
Anshika shifted nervously, biting her lip. "Mujhe aapse baat karni thi," she started, her words shaky.
"I want to talk to you."
Kartikey paused, looking at her with a blank expression. He didn't immediately respond as he noticed the looks they received from his teammates and some other people around the field and though he did not care, he knew she would care. So instead, he kicked the ball back to one of his teammates and turned his back to her for a moment.
Anshika stood frozen for a moment, was he so upset?Did he not care? She took a small step forward, "Kartikey,"
Kartikey's back remained turned, and his voice, though calm, carried a hint of coolness, he clearly wasn't liking everyone looking at her like that. "Hmm... Anshika, me thoda busy hoon baad me baat karte hain."
"I'm a little busy, we will talk later."
His words hit her harder than she expected. Was he that angry, the coldness in his tone made her feel as if she was being dismissed. She tried to apologize again, her voice faltering, but he was already walking away, not even sparing her a glance.
"Let's talk later," he said over his shoulder, his tone final.
Anshika stood there for a few moments, her chest tight, before turning to leave.
The next few times after their conversation at the field, Anshika tried to muster the courage to apologize to Kartikey multiple times, but every time, she found herself tongue-tied, hesitating she tried to apologize multiple times but backed off, nervous he might dismiss her again.
It wasn't long before Kartikey caught on to what Anshika was up to. Her repeated attempts to approach him hadn't gone unnoticed, and it amused him to no end. He had always found her hesitant, almost awkwardly cute demeanor intriguing, but seeing her try so hard to apologize was something new-and he wasn't about to let the opportunity slip to tease her a little.
The next morning, Anshika entered the college canteen, scanning the room nervously. She had spotted Kartikey heading in this direction earlier, and she was determined to apologize this time. Her eyes finally landed on him sitting at a table, chatting with a group of his friends. Taking a deep breath, she approached him, rehearsing her words in her mind. But just as she reached within a few feet of him, Kartikey turned his head and saw her coming.
For a fleeting moment, their eyes met, and her heart skipped a beat. But before she could say anything, Kartikey casually leaned back in his chair and addressed one of his friends. "Yaar, ek kaam hai mujhe, abhi aata hoon," he said, standing up abruptly.
"I have some work, I'll be back."
Without even glancing at her, he walked right past her, leaving Anshika rooted to the spot, stunned.
Did he just... avoid me? she thought, staring after him as he disappeared through the exit. A mix of confusion and hurt bubbling up inside her. Had he seen her coming and purposely left? Why would he do that?
Feeling defeated, she slumped into a nearby chair and watched the exit, hoping he might return. But Kartikey didn't. Instead, she sat there for a while, overthinking and trying to piece together why he was acting so distant.
Little did she know, Kartikey had been watching her approach from the corner of his eye and had deliberately left, biting back a grin as he walked away. He could see how determined she was to talk to him, and though he wasn't really upset with her, he couldn't resist drawing out her apology just a little longer.
"Thoda aur wait karo, Anshika" he muttered to himself with a smirk as he headed towards the college building. "Dekhte hain, kitni serious ho tum iss apology ke liye."
"Just wait a little more, Anshika. Let's see how serious you're about this apology."
The next time Anshika tried to apologize, it was during a lecture break. As she was walking towards the exit, she saw Kartikey talking to his friends near the doors. She hesitated, her mind still processing his behavior from before.
"Kartikey," she called out softly, taking a few steps toward him.
He looked up and caught her eye, then turned to his friends, raising his hand dismissively. "Aata hoon," he said, his voice light but with a mischievous undertone. They left giving both of them sly looks, and Kartikey slowly walked toward her.
"I'll be back,"
She took a deep breath and walked towards him, her steps hesitant. When she was a few feet away, she stopped, unsure how to start. She knew she had to make it quick before her courage wavered.
"Kartikey?" she called out, her voice barely above a whisper.
Kartikey looked at her, his expression neutral at first, but as soon as he saw her standing there fidgeting nervously, a small smirk tugged at his lips. "Anshika? Kya baat hai? Aaj padhai nahi karni?"
"What is it? You don't have to study today?"
His teasing tone made her feel even more self-conscious, but she managed to look him in the eyes. "Mujhe aapse baat karni thi... Actually, main aapse kuch kehna chahti hoon," she stammered.
"I wanted to talk to you... Actually, I want to say something to you."
"Mujhse? baat?" Kartikey raised an eyebrow, his voice dripping with mock curiosity. "Waah, bolo kya kehna hai?"
"With me? Talk? Wow, say, what do you want to say?"
Anshika's cheeks flushed, and she bit her lip, trying to gather her words. "Mujhe lagta hai ki parso main zyada defensive ho gayi thi. Agar aapko bura laga ho, toh... mujhe sorry kehna hai."
"I think I was too defensive day before yesterday. If you felt bad, then... I want to say sorry."
Kartikey's expression softened slightly, but he maintained his teasing demeanor. "Hmm... hurt toh hua tha mein thoda par," Tumse naaraz hone ki acting nahi ho payegi ab aur.
"I was hurt a little but,"
Anshika fidgeted with the edges of the books in her hands, "Par?"
"But?"
"Kuch nahi, bolo tum," he said softly, shaking his head with a smile.
"Nothing, you continue,"
Anshika hesitated, her eyes cast downward. "Main bas...I'm sorry main... Main sirf..." She trailed off, unsure how to explain herself.
"I just... I'm sorry... I... I just..."
Kartikey watched her intently, his eyes twinkling with amusement. He could see how much she was struggling with this, and it amused him to no end. He smiled slightly, his tone light yet purposeful. "Accha, theek hai, par ek condition hai."
"Okay it's fine, but there's a condition."
Anshika looked up in surprise, her brow furrowing. "Condition?"
"Haan, condition. Tum mujhe ab se 'aap' nahi kahogi. Bohot formal lagta hai, aur hum toh friends hai na, hm?" he said, a playful grin spreading across his face.
"Yes, condition. You won't call me 'aap' from now on. It's too formal, and we are friends na, hm?"
Anshika blinked at him, completely caught off guard. "Umm... haan par-" We are friends? okay.
"Umm... Yes but-"
"Par kuch nahi, Main serious hoon," he replied, his grin widening. "Tum mujhe 'aap' nahi bulaogi. Tum mujhe 'tum' bulaogi."
"But nothing, I'm serious. You won't call me 'aap'. You will call me 'tum'.
"Aap... Par main kaise?" she asked, still flustered.
"Aap... But how can I?"
"Kaise bhi. Tumhari apology ki value tabhi hai jab tum meri baat maanogi," Kartikey said, his voice softening just a little, though the playful spark remained in his eyes.
"However. There will only be a value to your apology if you listen to me."
Anshika hesitated for a moment before giving in. "Fine. Kartikey, main t-tumhe abse t-tum bolaungi." she said, her voice tentative but sincere.
"I will call you t-tum from now on."
Kartikey's eyes lit up with a satisfied gleam. "That's more like it," he said, clearly pleased with the outcome. "Ab, tumhari apology accepted."
Anshika let out a small, relieved sigh, feeling the tension in her chest ease slightly. "Thank you," she murmured, almost shyly. "Aur... sorry, agar maine kuch galat bola ho toh."
"And... sorry, if I said anything wrong."
"Chalo, ab relax," Kartikey said, his grin widening. "Chai piyogi?"
"Ok, now relax, you want to have tea?"
Anshika blinked at his sudden change in tone. "Chai?" she repeated, caught off guard.
"Tea?"
"Haan, chai," Kartikey said, tilting his head slightly as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Ek cup chai toh banti hai, right?"
"Yes, tea, this needs a cup of tea, right?"
She opened her mouth to protest but realized she didn't have a reason to. Instead, she nodded, still a bit flustered by the conversation. "Th-theek hai," she agreed softly.
"Ok-okay,"
"Bas theek hai?" he teased, gesturing for her to follow him.
"Just okay?"
Anshika trailed behind as they walked toward the canteen, her thoughts racing. She wasn't sure if she was more nervous about the apology finally being over or the fact that Kartikey now wanted to sit with her over tea.
When they reached the canteen, Kartikey ordered two cups of masala chai and leaned against the counter, watching her with an easy smile. Anshika, on the other hand, stood awkwardly, unsure what to do with her hands or herself.
As they waited, Anshika couldn't help but feel slightly self-conscious. She still wasn't used to spending time alone with him like this, and his casual demeanor only made her more nervous.
"Relax, Anshika," Kartikey said, noticing her fidgeting with the corner of her notebook again. "Main tumhe kha nahi jaaunga."
"I won't eat you."
She glanced up at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Main relaxed hoon."
"I'm relaxed."
"Haan, bilkul dikh raha hai," he replied, chuckling.
"Yes, I can surely see that."
The chai arrived, and Kartikey handed her a cup.
Anshika accepted it, her fingers brushing against his briefly. "Thank you," she murmured, taking a cautious sip.
They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the bustling noise of the canteen filling the gaps.
"Waise, tumhe mujhe sorry bolne ki zarurat nahi thi," Kartikey said suddenly, his tone softer now.
"By the way, you didn't have to say sorry."
Anshika looked up at him, surprised. "Kyun?"
"Why?"
"Kyunki main itna toh jaanta hoon tumhe, jitna tumhe lagta hai usse thoda zyada. Tum kabhi intentionally kisi ko hurt nahi karogi," he said, his gaze meeting hers.
"Because I know you, at least a little more thank you think. You will never hurt someone intentionally."
His words caught her off guard, and for a moment, she didn't know how to respond. "Phir bhi, I was wrong." she said quietly.
"Still, I was wrong."
Kartikey smiled, shaking his head. "Toh maine maaf kar diya. Simple."
"So I forgive you. Simple."
Anshika bit her lip, her heart unexpectedly lightened by his words. She took another sip of her chai, feeling a small smile creep onto her face.
"Waise, ek baat kahoon," Kartikey added, breaking the silence.
"Can I say something,"
"hmm" she hummed, curious.
"Tum glasses me kaafi cute lagti ho, aaj pehene nahi?" he said with a mischievous grin.
"You look cute with glasses, didn't wear them today?"
Anshika nearly choked on her chai. "K-Kya?"
"W-what?"
"Glasses, cute lagti ho," he said, smiling. "Aaj pehene nahi?"
"Glasses, you look cute, didn't wear them today?"
She looked away, her cheeks burning. "Tum bohot ajeeb ho," she muttered.
"You are really weird."
"Ajeeb toh tum bhi ho," he teased back, his deep chuckle filling the space between them.
"You are also weird."
For the first time in days, Anshika felt her nerves easing, a faint smile tugging at her lips as she finished her chai. Kartikey's teasing, as infuriating as it was, had a strange way of making her feel... seen.
"Chalo, lecture shuru hone waala hai," Kartikey said, glancing at his watch. "Waise, tumne notice kiya? Ab tum 'tum' bolne lagi ho aur bolne bhi lagi ho."
"Come on, lecture is about to start. By the way, did you notice? Now you say 'tum' and you talk."
Anshika rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile that played on her lips. "Chalo, class chalte hain," she said, brushing past him toward the exit.
"Come on, let's go to class."
"Anshika," he called out, making her pause and turn back.
"Haan?"
"Yes?"
"Good start," he said with a wink and a sweet smile before following her to the building.
Later that week, the college was abuzz with preparations for an upcoming cultural fest. Anshika had reluctantly agreed to choreograph a dance performance. While she was thrilled to work with her passion, the thought of being in the spotlight terrified her.
One afternoon, as Anshika rehearsed alone in the dance studio, Kartikey walked in, a bottle of water in hand. He leaned casually against the doorframe, watching her silently for a moment before speaking.
"Anshika," he said, his voice breaking her concentration.
She turned to him, startled. "Tum yahan?"
"You here?"
"Bas dekhna tha ki tumhari practice kaisi chal rahi hai," he replied, stepping inside. "Aur tum yeh batao, performance ke baad mujhe thanks bolne ka plan hai ya nahi?"
"Just wanted to see how your practice is going, and you tell me, do you have any plan to thank me after your performance."
"Thanks? Kis liye?" she asked, genuinely confused.
"For what?"
"For cheering you on," he said, smirking. "Main front row mein baithne wala hoon."
"I'll sit in the front row "
Anshika lowered her eyes, trying to hide the small smile that crept onto her face. "Tum busy nahi rahoge?"
"You won't be busy."
"Rahunga," he said, shrugging. "But tumhare liye time nikalna padta hai."
"I will be, but I need to take out time for you."
She didn't respond, turning her attention back to the mirror, but his words stayed with her.
The next few days saw more interactions. Kartikey began showing up at her rehearsals, sometimes bringing snacks for her, other times sitting at the back, quietly observing. The other dancers teased Anshika mercilessly, some even gossiped about them, some jealous and a few just curious, but she avoided their comments, her cheeks tinged pink every time she caught Kartikey watching her.
🌻
The cultural fest had finally arrived, and the entire college buzzed with excitement. Colorful decorations adorned the campus, music echoed from different corners, and students ran around making last-minute preparations. Anshika, however, stood backstage, clutching a bottle of water, her palms slightly sweaty.
Her group members chattered around her, adjusting their costumes and fixing their hair, but she remained quiet, taking deep breaths to calm herself. It wasn't her first time performing, but the nerves never really went away.
Anshika dressed in a graceful navy-blue Anarkali suit embroidered with silver thread. Her hair was neatly braided with tiny jasmine flowers woven into the strands, and a few wisps of hair framed her face. She looked stunning-elegant yet nervous, her hands fidgeting with the dupatta draped over her arm. Kartikey leaned against a wall at a distance, watching her closely.
"Yeh ladki mujhe pagal kar degi," he muttered under his breath, shaking his head with a smirk.
"This girl will make me go crazy,"
"Agar aise hi nervous hoti rahi na, toh stage pe gir jaogi," a familiar voice teased beside her.
"If you keep being nervous like this, then you'll fall on the stage,"
She turned sharply to see Kartikey standing there, arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. He was dressed casually, yet effortlessly attractive-something that irritated her more than she'd admit.
"Main nervous nahi hoon," she answered back, though the tight grip on her water bottle said otherwise.
"I'm not nervous,"
"Haan, dikh raha hai," he chuckled. "Waise, mujhe tumhari performance front row se dekhni thi, par front row wali jagah already book ho chuki hai."
"Yes, I can see that. I wanted to see your performance from the first row but it's already booked."
Anshika's heart skipped a beat. "Kyun?... uh I mean... Toh?"
"Why?... Uh I mean... So?"
"Toh ab main front row ke paas khade hoke dekhunga," he said smugly, shrugging.
"I'll stand by the first row and watch."
She rolled her eyes. "Itna zaroori bhi nahi hai front row se dekhna."
"It's not that important to watch from the first row."
"Mere liye toh hai... tumhara performance hai toh zaroori hai," he said with a smile before walking away, leaving her flustered.
"It is for me, it's your performance so it's important."
As the performances went on, Anshika's group was called next. The music started, and she stepped onto the stage, her heartbeat loud in her ears. But as she took her position, her eyes instinctively searched for Kartikey. True to his words, he was standing near the front, his gaze fixed on her with an intensity that made her momentarily forget the crowd.
The performance began, and Anshika lost herself in the rhythm, her body moving fluidly with every beat. Her confidence grew with every step, every turn, and every perfectly executed movement. Every time she glanced Kartikey's way, she found him watching her with an almost unreadable expression-pride, amusement, something deeper she couldn't quite place.
Kartikey watched, completely mesmerized. The shy, hesitant Anshika was nowhere to be seen. In her place stood a confident, graceful dancer, lost in her own world.
He found himself unable to tear his gaze away. He had always admired her, but this... this was something else. He watched her, as a realization settled over him-he was falling for her, hard.
The performance ended to a round of deafening applause. Anshika took a deep breath, her heart racing-not just from dancing, but from the overwhelming emotions flooding her. She stole a quick glance at Kartikey, who met her gaze with an unreadable expression before breaking into a slow, approving clap.
Anshika's group bowed, breathless yet exhilarated. She walked offstage, her heart still racing, and before she could even process anything, Kartikey was there, holding out a bottle of water.
"Perfect tha, bohot sundar." he said, his voice softer than usual as he gazed at her.
"It was perfect, very beautiful."
She took the bottle, muttering, "Thanks," before looking away.
Later, as she stepped out of the green room, she was ambushed by her friends.
"Anshika, tu toh kamaal lag rahi thi!" Priya gushed.
"Anshika, you were looking so good!"
"Haan, aur maine dekha, Kartikey was staring at you the whole time," Meera teased, making Anshika's cheeks flush.
"Yes, and I saw,"
"Bas karo yaar, kuch bhi" she muttered, walking ahead, but the heat on her face refused to fade.
"Enough, you guys say anything."
The festival continued with more events, and Anshika found herself relaxing, especially with Kartikey and their friend group pulling her into their conversations and jokes.
At one point, they were all gathered near a food stall, bickering over who would pay for the food.
"Kartikey, tu de," Rahul suggested.
"Kartikey will pay."
"Haan haan, sab mujhe hi loot lo," Kartikey sighed dramatically before pulling out his wallet.
"Sure sure, everyone robs me only."
Anshika shook her head. "Mujhe nahi chahiye," she said.
"I don't want it,"
"Chup chaap khao." Kartikey countered, handing her a plate.
"Shut up and eat."
She opened her mouth to protest but gave up, taking a bite instead. To her annoyance, he looked entirely too pleased with himself.
Their growing bond didn't go unnoticed. Meera and Rahul, ever the observers, took every opportunity to tease them.
"Kartikey bhai, aaj kaafi seriously cheering chal rahi thi, pehle toh kabhi nahi hui." Rahul joked, earning laughter from their group.
"Kartikey bro, you were taking cheering quite seriously today, you never did before."
"Another college showcase? Harr semester hota hai," he mimicked Kartikey.
"It happens every semester,"
"Haan, ab kya hua? Seedha front row," Arjun said, joining the teasing.
"Yes, now what? Directly front row,"
"Haan toh," Kartikey replied smoothly. "Special reason tha, after all."
"Yeah so, there was a special reason after all."
Anshika, standing nearby, looked down at her plate, wishing she could disappear. But even as her friends laughed, she couldn't ignore the way her heart fluttered at his words.
"Yeh kya ho raha hai?" Meera asked Anshika, smirking.
"What is happening?"
"Kuch bhi nahi," Anshika said quickly, avoiding Kartikey's amused expression.
As the festival winded down, Anshika sat on a bench away from the crowd, enjoying a moment of peace. Kartikey found her easily, settling down beside her without a word.
"Thak gayi?" he asked after a while.
"Tired?"
She nodded. "Lekin maza aaya."
"But it was fun."
"Tumne bohot accha perform kiya aaj," he said, turning to look at her. "Mujhe pata tha tum kar logi."
"You performed really well, I knew you could do it."
She glanced at him, surprised. "Itna confidence kyun hai mujhpe?"
"Why do you have so much confidence in me?"
He shrugged, his usual teasing smirk replaced with something softer. "Bas hai."
"I just do."
Anshika didn't know how to respond to that. Instead, she let the comfortable silence settle between them, the sounds of the festival fading in the background.
As he watched her, Kartikey realized something-this wasn't just amusement anymore. He wasn't just enjoying teasing her or seeing her flustered reactions. He liked seeing her succeed, he liked being the one she searched for in a crowd, the one who could break through her hesitations, even if just a little.
Leaning back, he smiled to himself, hoping to break her walls someday.
Little did he know, she had already started lowering them, unknown to this fact herself.
Later in the evening, Kartikey stood at a corner in the campus, away from the crowd. He was lost in thought, running a hand through his hair. Anshika had always been different, but he had never realized just how deeply she affected him until now. Every little thing about her-the way she fidgeted with her notebook, the way she stuttered when nervous, even the way she blushed without knowing-had him completely hooked.
"Kya kar raha hoon main?" he muttered under his breath, shaking his head. He was Kartikey, the football captain, the confident, carefree guy who never let emotions dictate his actions. And yet, here he was, completely smitten by a girl who barely realized the effect she had on him.
"What am I doing?"
His gaze drifted toward where she stood, laughing at something one of her friends had said. It was subtle, but he could see it-the way she had started meeting his eyes more often, how she no longer shrank away when he teased her, how her initial hesitation around him was slowly melting away.
"Anshika... tumhe pata bhi hai tum kya kar rahi ho?" he murmured to himself, a slow smile forming on his lips.
"Anshika... You have no idea what you're doing?"
For the first time in a long while, Kartikey felt like he had a challenge he genuinely wanted to win. Breaking through Anshika's carefully built walls wasn't going to be easy, but then again, he had always loved a good chase. And now when it was her, he was not ready to lose.
"Bhai, tujhe ho kya gaya hai?" Arjun nudged him playfully, following his line of sight. "Pichle kuch dinon se bas usi ko dekh raha hai. Pehle bhi ladkiyan pasand aayi hain tujhe, but yeh toh kuch aur hi hai."
"Bro, what's up with you? You just keep looking at her. You have liked other girls before, but this is something else."
Kartikey exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "Pata nahi yaar... woh alag hai. Simple, lekin fascinating."
"I don't know man... She's different. Simple yet fascinating."
He knew it was more than just a passing attraction. Anshika had this quiet strength, a resilience that spoke volumes even when she remained silent. But she was guarded, hesitant, always keeping people at arm's length. And that bothered him more than he cared to admit.
"Phir kya socha? Baat aage badhani hai ya bas door se dekh kar aashiq banne ka plan hai?" Arjun teased.
"What are you thinking then? You want to do something about it or just look at her like a lover from far."
Kartikey smirked but didn't answer immediately. He wanted to get closer to her, to see beyond the walls she had so carefully built. But how? She resisted every attempt he made to engage her beyond surface-level conversations. And yet, there were moments-tiny, fleeting moments-where he caught her looking at him when she thought he wasn't watching. Where she hesitated just a little less before replying to him. Where her expressions softened, even if just for a second.
His jaw tightened with determination. "Main bas uska trust jeetna chahta hoon, Arjun. Jab tak woh khud mujhse baat karne me comfortable nahi hogi, tab tak main zabardasti nahi karne wala."
"I just want to win her trust, Arjun. I won't do anything until she's comfortable with me."
Arjun let out a low whistle. "Bhai, tu toh sach mein dil de baitha hai."
"Bro, you really gave your heart away."
Kartikey chuckled, running a hand through his hair. "Pehle uska dost toh ban jaun theek se, phir aage ke baare me sochenge."
"Let me become her friend first, then we will think ahead."
Little did he know, at that very moment, Anshika was also stealing a glance at him, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing at her lips before she quickly looked away, her heart beating just a little faster than usual.
Anshika herself felt something shift within her, though she refused to acknowledge it.
She told herself it was just coincidence that her eyes often searched for him in a crowd. That her heart didn't race a little when he called out her name. That she wasn't thinking about his words long after he had spoken them.
But then, why did she hesitate less before responding to him?
Why did she feel a strange warmth spreading through her chest when he smiled at her in that confident, almost knowing way?
It had started small. She no longer immediately turned away when their eyes met. If he sat near her in the canteen, she didn't shift uncomfortably like before. One day she had been walking to the library when he had fallen into step beside her, a casual smirk playing on his lips. "Kitabein toh itni padhti ho, kabhi mujhe bhi tumhe padne ka time do."
"You read so many books, let me read you sometime."
Instead of getting flustered or ignoring him like she usually did, she had given him a side glance and said, "Kisi ki bhi kitaab banne ka koi plan nahi hai mera."
"I don't have any plans to be someone's book."
Kartikey had let out a surprised chuckle. "Sahi hai, ab toh dialogues bhi maarne lagi ho."
"Right, dialogues and all."
And Kartikey had grinned, almost triumphantly.
The biggest change, though, had been during dance practice.
She usually preferred staying in her own corner, focusing on her movements, avoiding unnecessary attention. But that day, Kartikey had been watching from the sidelines, his intense gaze unwavering. She had felt it-like a weight, like an anchor. And instead of shying away, she had let herself dance freely, without overthinking.
When the routine ended, breathless and flushed, she had glanced at him. He was still watching, but there was something different in his eyes. Admiration. Respect. Something more.
And before she could stop herself, before she could remember that she wasn't supposed to be affected, she had smiled. Just a small, fleeting smile.
She had caught herself almost immediately, her expression slipping back into neutrality, but the damage was done.
Because Kartikey had noticed.
He had noticed how her shoulders weren't as tense when he was around, how she no longer avoided standing too close.
She might not realize it yet, but she was letting him in.
Kartikey had started noticing the little things-how Anshika wasn't as quick to escape when he was around, how she no longer avoided conversations with him, and how, sometimes, she even initiated them unknowingly.
Like the time in the canteen when she had casually passed him a tissue before he could ask for one. "Shukriyaaa," he had said with a teasing tone smirking, expecting her usual eye roll.
"Thanksss,"
But instead, she had just shrugged, "Hamesha mess karte ho, maangte hi."
"You always make a mess, you would've asked anyway."
It was a small moment, one that would have gone unnoticed by anyone else, but for Kartikey, it was proof. She had noticed his habits, enough to anticipate them.
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