As Naina concluded her dance, applause erupted from both the Gupta and Murthy families. She responded with a shy smile, delicately tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Glancing at Rajveer through her eyelashes, she sought his reaction with a mix of bashfulness and anticipation.

Naina couldn't help but stifle a giggle as she observed Rajveer's stunned expression. His gaze traveled from the top to the bottom, revealing a mesmerized look on his face. It became apparent that he was captivated by her appearance in the saree. The realization made Naina blush.

As Rajveer approached her with a slow, deliberate pace, a smile adorned his lips. After giving her another thorough glance, he uttered her name, "Naina." It sounded like a prayer.

"Sir... oh... aunty said... that... you would like it... That's why I wore... this," Naina hurriedly explained, stumbling over her words in nervousness.

To her surprise, Rajveer responded with a touch of humor, "I should get Chachi something expensive."

Perplexed, Naina questioned, "Why?"

"Because I got to see such a beautiful sight due to her persistence," he replied boldly.

Naina blushed even deeper and cast her eyes down at her hands. Recognizing the effect of his words, Rajveer attempted to clarify, "I... ah.. I mean... you look... I mean, this saree looks... no.. you both together... ah..." He then chuckled, "Actually, you're looking really beautiful in this saree. I never saw you like this... it's the first time.. so..." Even Rajveer found himself blushing, his words faltering.

"Thanks... for the compliment," Naina responded with a smile.

"Of course... it's a compliment," he said, scratching his neck, an embarrassed expression coloring his features.

Rajveer and Naina, lost in their own world, were jolted back to reality by the sound of someone clearing their throat. Turning their attention towards the front of the house, they discovered the rest of the family watching the entire scene with amused smiles.

"Hi, Bhaiya! We're still here... in case you forgot," Khushi cheekily informed, waving at Rajveer.

Rajveer stared at his family, wide-eyed in shock. The realization hit him that he had completely forgotten about their presence, his whole family standing just a few feet away while he complimented Naina.

"Rajveer beta, you didn't answer if we should look for another girl or would Naina do?" Kishori Murthy asked, her eyes twinkling with mischief and a teasing smile playing on her lips. The rest of the family looked on, eager for his response.

Rajveer wished for the earth to open up and spare him from having to respond.

"Boliye na, Rajveer sir?" Naina poked his arm, encouraging a reply.

Rajveer shot her a bewildered look before his gaze shifted to himself. The astute strategist within him quickly connected the dots, taking only moments to realize that his entire family was in on this scheme. How they managed to rope Naina into it remained a mystery until he glanced at his younger siblings, noticing the proud smiles on their faces. Rajveer felt a mix of amusement and exasperation. The conspiratorial smiles on Khushi, Nandini, and Rishav's faces indicated that they had orchestrated this scenario. His eyes moved from one sibling to another, acknowledging their hand in the playful conspiracy.

Rajveer couldn't help but shake his head at their clever scheme, albeit with a hint of a smile, as he prepared himself to answer the teasing question. Feeling cornered and slightly amused by the situation, he let out a sigh, deciding to play along with the teasing. He turned his attention back to Kishori Murthy and replied, "Dadi ji, I think this one is enough trouble for me as I'm used to her. I don't think I can handle a new one."

His playful response elicited laughter from the family, and Naina rolled her eyes at his theatrics. The lighthearted banter continued, creating a warm and jovial atmosphere in the Shikhawat household.

"Beta, you've made a wise choice," Ams chimed in, smiling warmly. "Now, let's go inside and continue our preparation for Diwali. We've got a lot to do!"

As the family dispersed, Rajveer couldn't help but exchange a playful glance with Naina. "Does your parents know that you're here? Or should I expect BC to come here looking for you?" he asked, a teasing smile playing on his lips.

"I'm the master strategist's protégé. I don't do anything without a plan. I told the parents the truth, and they encouraged me to come here," Naina replied, confidently flicking her open hair.

Rajveer paused and turned to her. "Told them the truth? Which one?" he asked, a hint of apprehension in his voice.

"The truth that we love each other, and I want to marry you, but for some reason, you don't," she answered, scowling at him. "Why don't you want to marry me? Alekh said you loved me for a LOOOOOONNNNNGGGG time. Then why don't you agree to marry me?" Naina interrogated, stepping into his personal space.

Startled by her verbal attack, Rajveer took a step back until his back hit a large tree, with Naina only a few inches away from him, looking at him angrily.

"Huda was right to give you the name 'Phoolan Devi' [Bandit Queen]," Rajveer said, placing his hand on his chest. "My God, you scared me," he added, accusingly.

Naina narrowed her eyes and stepped even closer to him. "Answer me! Why did you tell Ruhani and Riddhima that I would never agree to marry you? Did you not forgive me yet for how I behaved when I first learned about..." Naina trailed off, pouting. "I told you I was wrong for reacting like that. You know how I am when I'm angry. I honestly regret behaving like that. I did apologize for that. I know I misbehaved with you a lot, and it wouldn't be easy to forget those... but..." she continued blabbering, but Rajveer stopped her by placing his index finger over her lips.

"No, Naina. That's not why I'm hesitating," he told her patiently, vaguely noticing how soft her lips were.

"Then why?" Naina asked, looking up at him through teary eyes. "I swear I saw love in your eyes for me... did you... did you by any chance... move on?" she asked hesitantly.

"No, Naina, never. As long as I have breath left in my body, my heart will only beat for you," Rajveer confessed. Cupping her face, he added, "I love you, Naina. I really, really do."

Tears rolled down Naina's cheeks. "I too fell in love with you... maybe that's why I kept on showing my right on you. Acting like you were mine to do whatever I wanted with... like a possessive brat. I hated it when you got engaged to Dr. Ritu," she confessed.

Rajveer tenderly wiped away Naina's tears. "I could never move on from you, Naina. I can't imagine my life without you. But the reason I hesitated wasn't about your past behavior. It's because..." he hesitated.

Naina looked at him with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Because?"

He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Naina, can you honestly tell me that you can marry the man who killed your brother? The man who wasn't brave enough to save him? Can you imagine waking up beside the man whose hands are stained with your own brother's blood?" he asked, holding firmly onto her shoulders.

Naina looked into his eyes and saw the profound pain he held inside. Even if the world forgives him, he would never forgive himself for shooting Naveen. "Yes. Yes, I can honestly say that I can marry the man who shot my brother. I can honestly say that I will marry the man who relentlessly fought with the entire world to get my brother, his best friend, justice. I would be honored to marry such a man," she stated with clear words, leaving no doubt in his mind.

Rajveer was taken aback by Naina's resolute response. He released his grip on her shoulders, letting his arms fall to his sides. The weight on his heart seemed to lift as he looked into her eyes, finding sincerity and acceptance.

"Naina," he whispered, almost unable to believe what he just heard. He embraced Naina tightly, as if afraid she might disappear. "I love you, Naina," he whispered, his voice choked with emotions.

"I love you too, Rajveer sir," Naina replied, reciprocating the hug with equal intensity. They stood in the front yard, finding solace and reassurance in each other's embrace.

Unexpectedly, a twinge of pain radiated from the stitches on Naina's back, serving as a gentle reminder that perhaps she shouldn't have been dancing so carefreely. Grateful for leaving her waist-length hair cascading freely, she skillfully concealed the bandage on her back. However, with Rajveer's hand resting there, she worried he might detect the lump of the dressing. With a slow retreat, she flashed him a coy smile and suggested, "Maybe we should head inside."

Rajveer chuckled, realizing he had lost track of time during their embrace, forgetting the anticipation of his family waiting for them indoors. "Yeah, let's go," he agreed, casting a glance around. "Where are your bags?" he inquired.

"Khushi already took them inside," Naina informed him.

Rajveer grinned. "Shall we, then?" he asked, extending his hand. This time, it wasn't an offer to hold her hand as her teacher or mentor; it was an invitation to clasp hands as lovers.

Responding with a dreamy smile, Naina delicately placed her hand in his, and together, they strolled towards the main door of the house.

Garima graciously performed the aarti for Naina. Everyone of this family has already accepted her as the soon to-be daughter-in-law of this house, so they marked her arrival into the house for the first time with the aarti. The warmth of the welcome extended by everyone enveloped her as she stepped in. Once the initial greetings settled down in the cozy living room, Rajveer took the lead in introducing Naina to each member of the family.

"Naina, meet my dadi ji, Mrs. Kishori Murthy. She's a renowned classical singer," Rajveer beamed with pride. Kishori, touched by his endearing introduction, responded with an affectionate smile, profoundly moved by being referred to as 'HIS' grandma.

Pointing to the others, Rajveer continued, "These are my Amma, Garima, and my Babuji, Shashi Gupta. Since reconnecting with them, it feels like my parents have returned. Babuji ran a sweet shop in Lucknow, but they recently moved to Delhi with plans to open another sweet shop here. Amma creates the most divine dishes, and I've learned so much from her." Rajveer's face lit up with a wide smile as Shashi and Garima lovingly patted his cheek.

Moving on to the next couple, he introduced, "This is my Chacha ji and my beautiful Chachi ji, Vijay and Shanno Murthy. Chachaji is a civil officer in a Government office, and my darling chachi is a culinary inventor who delights in creating new and tasty dishes." Rajveer dropped a kiss on Shanno's hand, eliciting a joyful beam from her. Vijay playfully rolled his eyes at Rajveer's charming exaggeration of his wife's culinary prowess.

"And lastly, the most affectionate member of my family, my Buaji, Madhumati," he said, embracing her warmly. "She pampers me and makes me feel like a little boy all over again."

Observing this familial exchange, Naina felt tears of joy welling up in her eyes. Witnessing Rajveer, who had experienced years of orphanhood, find a family that embraced him so wholeheartedly filled her with profound happiness. The radiant joy on Rajveer's face resembled a shining sun, illuminating the peace and contentment he had finally found.

"You've already met the bachcha party[Youngsters] of our house. This beauty is Payel Gupta, the only sensible sibling I have," Rajveer introduced Naina, hugging Payel, who chuckled in response, while the rest of the younger siblings playfully scoffed.

Rajveer burst into laughter before turning his attention to his sisters, wrapping his arms around them. "This is Ruhani, also known as 'Khushi' now. She's like a tornado made of mischief, love, and happiness. Always scheming something naughty or a new trick to tease others under the guise of helping them," he shared, earning an elbow to his stomach and a pout from Khushi. "And this is Riddhima, now going by the name 'Nandini'. Most of the time, she's a good girl, but as soon as she's left alone with Khushi, Nandini transforms into a Sanka devi," he added jokingly, noticing Nandini's wide-eyed look and blushing cheeks that betrayed the truth.

"Now, last but not least... This handsome young man is my little brother, Rishav Murthy. But... he's only little in age. From what I've observed so far, he has a brilliant mind, and with a little guidance, he could be a rocket scientist for all I know," Rajveer said proudly, giving Rishav a warm smile. Rishav stared up at him, then unexpectedly burst into tears, hugging Rajveer tightly. The Murthy family became concerned, but Rajveer signaled them not to intervene, embracing Rishav back.

"Hey, Rishu, don't cry... yet. I haven't started telling Naina about your naughty side yet," Rajveer teased, making everyone chuckle as Rishav managed a small giggle through his tears. It became apparent that Rishav was simply overwhelmed by the love he received from Rajveer.

"You know, Naina, this little one is a sneaky devil. He was instigating the whole matter earlier when Dadi ji ambushed me," Rajveer said dramatically.

"What you don't know, bhaiya, is that Rishav was the one who got the landline number and Bhabhi's surname for us so that we could contact her," Khushi revealed.

"Hmm... and he was the one who told us to call at night so that we could talk for longer," Nandini added.

Rajveer peeked at Rishav, who still rested his head against Rajveer's chest. "Really? I thought you were on my team!" he playfully exclaimed.

Finally pulling back from Rajveer, Rishav wore a slight naughty smile and said, "Everything is fair in love and war." His statement elicited laughter from everyone in the room.

Kishori Murthy observed the heartwarming scene unfolding before her and felt a profound sense of peace. Seeing Rishav embraced by an older brother who would guide him, along with three caring older sisters who would pamper, scold, and, most importantly, help him overcome his traumatic past, brought her immense relief. As she gazed at Rajveer, a serene sigh escaped her, and she thought to herself, "Your parents must've been truly exceptional human beings to have given birth to such a remarkable son. You entered our lives like a storm but settled in like a beautiful spring season, transforming empty meadows into a canvas of blossoms like magic. May the Almighty always protect you and shower you with boundless happiness."

As the conversation continued effortlessly, Kishori, sporting a fond smile, instructed Khushi and Nandini to guide Naina to her assigned room. Brimming with excitement, the girls led Naina to the first floor, regaling her with tales of their clever plan to ensure that the only vacant room happened to be conveniently situated next to Rajveer's.

... - - - - ...

The guest room, designated temporarily for Naina, exuded a serene ambiance with its greenish-beige walls adorned with subtle white accents. The focal point of the room was a comfortable queen-sized bed, inviting and neatly made, positioned against one of the walls. A window on the opposite side framed a picturesque view of the front yard, allowing natural light to gently filter in.

Opposite the entrance, a tastefully designed dressing table stood, complementing the room's décor. A chest of drawers provided ample storage, and a thick carpet graced the floor, offering a plush and warm feel underfoot. The room exuded sophistication with its carefully chosen furnishings and meticulous arrangement, yet it remained devoid of any personal touch

"Bhabhi, do you like the room?" Khushi inquired, guiding Naina to where her bags were placed.

Naina took a moment to glance around and then offered a warm smile. "It's nice."

"Naina Bhabhi, it's okay if you don't like it much. After all, in the end, Bhaiya's room will become yours. So, it's important that you like that room," Nandini playfully teased, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

Naina responded with a subtle smirk. "Riddhu dear, does your bhaiya know about your boyfriend who is not your boyfriend?" she countered, amusement evident in her eyes.

Nandini's eyes widened in shock, and Khushi turned to give her little sister a surprised look. "You have a boyfriend? How come you didn't tell me?" Khushi sulked.

"I doubt she was going to tell me either if her 'not-boyfriend' hadn't come along to pick me up," Naina shared with an amused smile as she took a seat on the bed.

"Bhabhi! He's not my boyfriend!" Nandini whined, joining Naina on the bed.

"If he's not your boyfriend, then why are your cheeks so red?" Khushi pointed out with a teasing edge, a sly smile playing on her lips.

Nandini sighed deeply, embarking on the tale of her complicated relationship with Manik. "Manik is the leader of the band Fab 5, and the five members of this band have been childhood friends. When I first encountered him, he was notorious for bullying students at the SPACE academy, a private college owned by Manik's parents. My initial impression of him wasn't favorable—I thought he was a monster with the face of an angel. He started tormenting my friend Navya, and when I stood up against it, Manik and the rest of the FAB 5 turned their bullying tactics towards me. It reached a point where I punched Manik in front of everyone, making him even angrier," she explained, a sigh punctuating the recollection of the past.

"He manipulated me into a bogus contract, claiming I had to pay him or become his slave. Reluctantly, I agreed, and our interactions increased. During this time, I discovered that Manik's father was absent from his life, alive but mysteriously absent. He harbored resentment towards his mother, the college trustee. The only people he truly cared about were his four friends, who were like family to him. Dhruv, Manik's best friend, holds a special place in his heart, and when Dhruv became friends with me, Manik grew jealous, thinking I was trying to take away his friend," Nandini continued with a teasing smile.

"One day, I realized that Dhruv also experienced the same kind of attacks that Rishav does when triggered by the past. When I questioned Manik about it, instead of answering sensibly, he behaved like a jerk again. Chacha and Chachi had gone on a sudden trip, leaving me to take care of Rishav. Manik assumed I was avoiding him, so he visited, discovering Rishav's condition. During the Musicana competition preparations, our bands clashed often."

Nandini's narrative unfolded with emotional peaks and valleys, capturing the complexity of her relationship with Manik. "Those moments were sweet one minute and sour the next. However, what truly touched me and revealed his softer side was during the final selection round when Rishav had an attack while I was on stage. Manik forgot everything else and immediately attended to Rishav. Chachi was struggling to handle Rishav, but Manik swiftly intervened, calming him. Despite risking his team's disqualification for not being present on stage, he showed no regret. It was then that I began to see the goodness in him," she recounted.

"Following that incident, Manik suggested that we gather to investigate why both Rishav and Dhruv experienced these attacks. As we spent time together, we engaged in fights and banter. One day, I discovered that Cabir was gay and in a relationship with our teacher, Raghav sir. When I told Manik, he initially threatened me to keep quiet, but eventually, it became a secret between us. Cabir confided in Manik about his truth, and while Manik accepted him, he felt Raghav sir was taking advantage of Cabir. Manik, having no one else to confide in, would visit my house in the middle of the night, calling me down and hugging me tightly, as if afraid of losing himself. Sometimes he'd lean against his car, sharing his findings and seeking advice on how to handle the situation," Nandini continued, offering glimpses into the complexities of their shared secrets.

"At our college party, I accidentally consumed a spiked drink, and Manik took care of me. In a situation where others might have taken advantage, Manik ensured my safety, ensuring I brushed my teeth, said my prayers, and tucked me into bed before leaving. As we spent time in secret, our feelings deepened, and we realized we loved each other. However, everyone believed Manik was still dating Alya. Manik revealed that he and Alya had broken up long ago but kept it a secret from Fab 5 due to the upcoming Musicana festival. We continued to meet in secret, sharing sweet moments, and our feelings intensified to the point of realizing we were in love. On the night before Musicana, Manik confessed his love for me, and I was over the moon," Nandini recounted with a mix of joy and sadness.

"However, the very next day, he changed his tune, declaring that everything between us was a lie, orchestrated as revenge for the punch. I was heartbroken. This all happened the night Rajveer Bhaiya and Khushi di first came to meet me. I was so shattered that I forgot my lines during the show, leading Fab 5 to win. Harshad was furious and attacked Cabir. Manik and I were arguing when we heard the commotion. We arrived in time to save Cabir and rushed him to the hospital before I returned home. A few days later, I discovered that on the night Manik confessed, he also found out about Dhruv's feelings for me. The idiot decided that I would be happier with Dhruv than him, hence concocting the revenge story. Now that he realizes his mistake after I confronted him, he's been persistently apologizing and seeking a chance to rebuild our relationship. So, you see... at the moment, he's not my boyfriend," Nandini concluded, her story a poignant blend of love, betrayal, and the intricacies of the human heart.

"That boy is very bad! Are you sure he's telling the truth this time? What if he hurts you again?" Khushi expressed her worry.

"He's sincere. I could see it in his eyes... but broken trusts are like broken glasses. Can they be repaired?" Nandini pondered, looking at her sister before turning to Naina, who appeared lost in thought. "What do you think I should do, Bhabhi? You've seen him."

"Humans are... well, only human. We may not get everything right the first, second, third, or even the hundredth time. But that's why having a second chance at something is important. It took me some time to understand that... some people are worthy of a second chance. You might regret not giving him this chance," Naina advised Nandini with a small smile. "I was observing you two for a long time before I even got off the bus. The way he was looking at you was like... like he was a blind person before that moment and was seeing the light for the first time. It was the pure love oozing out of his very being that made me look at you two," she explained.

A shy smile bloomed on Nandini's face at Naina's heartfelt description.

"But what if he hurts her again?" Khushi asked, still concerned.

"While you are never required to give a person another chance, just think of the times when life or other people gave you a second chance, Khushi. And I think it's okay if Nandini gets hurt. Because now she's not alone. She has a huge family to lean on. Loving sisters, brothers, bhabhi, parents, uncle, aunt, and grandma. She would be okay," Naina assured Khushi with a comforting smile.

Khushi sighed. "I guess bhabhi is correct. But I think before giving him another chance, you should make him do something to prove that he's serious about your relationship this time," she suggested.

Nandini nodded in agreement.

"Nandini just shared her story. What about you, Ms. Khushi? Tell me about the man in your life," Naina asked with a teasing smile.

"W-What man?" Khushi stammered.

"Rajveer sir was telling me that there was someone named 'Arnav' who seemed really possessive and protective about you?" Naina prodded, playfully bumping her shoulder with Khushi.

"Is it the same person who sent you that lehenga when we were shopping?" Nandini asked her sister before turning to Naina. "You know, bhabhi, we were shopping yesterday when suddenly a man in a black suit came and handed a shopping bag from one of the most renowned designer brands to di. Inside was a gorgeous bottle-green lehenga. Khushi di, how did your man know that we decided on green?" she inquired curiously.

"Who knows? I didn't talk to him since the morning yesterday," Khushi confessed, pouting at the teasing she was receiving due to that lehenga.

Suddenly, Khushi exclaimed with shock as she smacked her forehead, "Hey Devi Maiya! I forgot that Amma had told me to invite the Raizadas for Diwali." She got to her feet and was about to run out of the room when Naina and Nandini grabbed her hands to stop her.

"We're sparing you for now, but I demand to know the whole story tonight," Naina told Khushi sternly, though her mischievous smile betrayed her seriousness.

Khushi sulked but nodded.

"And I want to go with you... I want to see who might become my future jijaji [brother-in-law]," Nandini stated with a naughty smirk of her own.

Khushi's eyes widened in shock, and her cheeks turned red. "Bu-But.."

"I'm going... or I'll tell Ams and Babuji about your man," Nandini blackmailed.

"NO! Okay, you can come along," Khushi relented. Naina and Nandini cheered, exchanging high-fives at the successful negotiation, while Khushi puffed up her cheeks in defeat.

...-...

...-...

...-...

A/N:::

Did you like Naina's entrance? And Rajveer's reaction to Naina in saree?

Did you enjoy Raina's confession?

Did you enjoy the bonding scenes?

Let me know.