The Rathore's Family

His first step toward chapter 9:

"No, why would I have any problem with your college?" Advait asked, his voice deep and steady.

"Wohh, nothing," Drishti stuttered, caught off guard.

With a nod, he turned and headed to bed.

Drishti felt a wave of happiness wash over her. Why shouldn't I be happy? She quickly grabbed her phone and messaged her best friend before drifting off to sleep.

The next morning, Drishti woke up feeling refreshed and excited for the day ahead. Today is a big day for me, she thought, forcing herself to wake up early. Well, I always wake up early now, thanks to my wedding.

After getting ready, she made her way to the kitchen and brewed her favorite tea. I just need tea to start my day right.

Sipping her tea on the sofa, anticipation bubbled within her. She had never imagined she would be able to join college, especially after Dadi's discouragement. But sometimes, life had a way of surprising you. All credit goes to my khadoos husband, though—he does have some sense.

Suddenly, she heard someone call her name repeatedly.

Turning around, she nearly spilled her tea. "What are you doing here at this time of day?" she exclaimed, startled by Advait's sudden presence.

"Wohh, I—I..." she stuttered, avoiding his gaze.

"Yes, my khadoos husband," she thought. I don't know why I'm getting punished this early in the morning.

"Aapko kuch chahiye?" she managed to ask, gulping her tea.

"Nahi," he replied, looking straight at her.

"Kahein ja rahe hain?" she asked, still not meeting his eyes.

"Haaan."

"Where are you going?" she pressed, a little curious.

"Coffee?"

"Nahi, I'm getting late," he said, turning to leave. But before he could take a step, she blurted out, "Bina kuch khaye piye ghar se bahar nahi jate." Looks like my inner wife has awakened!

He stopped, surprising her. "Oh, aisa kya?" he raised an eyebrow, smirking.

"Hmm, aap rukiye, main coffee leke aati hun," she replied, feeling bold.

Drishti rushed to the kitchen to prepare the coffee, knowing he wouldn't wait long.

"Carefully! I'm not running anywhere," she heard him say from behind her.

"Bhaag rahe ho toh?" she murmured under her breath.

"Take your time; there's no rush," he said, his tone relaxed.

When he called her name softly, she turned, feeling her heart race. "K—Kya?" Why do I stutter in front of him?

"Just one minute," she replied, trying to steady herself.

"Ek minute? I could wait a lifetime for you." His words left her breathless, and she focused on grinding the coffee beans to hide her flustered reaction.

As she poured the coffee, her emotions swirled. She glanced at him, hoping to find clarity, but his expression was unreadable. After handing him the coffee cup, he sat down, taking a sip.

"Are you my bodyguard?" he teased, catching her off guard. She hesitated, unsure how to respond.

"What? Nahi, nahi!" she stammered.

"Then why are you standing? Just sit," he said, gesturing to the chair. She hesitantly took a seat across from him, and an awkward silence settled between them.

His phone rang, shattering the stillness. He ignored the call, his forehead creasing in frustration. When he finally picked it up, he didn't even let the caller say hello.

"If I don't respond, it's because I'm busy... Alright, I'll be there." He hung up and turned to her. "I have to go."

She simply hummed in response, unsure of what to say as he left. At least we had a conversation, she thought, feeling a mix of emotions.

After he was gone, she took a deep breath. If I'm happy, maybe I'll have another cup of tea!

In the kitchen, Drishti savored her tea, grinning widely.

"Kindly return from your lala land," Vihaan teased, trying to hold back his laughter.

"Sorry, I was lost in thought," she chuckled, turning to face him.

Just then, Anjali and Riddhima entered, exchanging morning greetings. Anjali poured herself and Riddhima a cup of tea before asking, "What were you two talking about?"

"Nothing, Chachi," Drishti replied quickly.

"Oh no? Let me summarize for you!" Vihaan chimed in, earning a glare from Drishti.

"Forget him. I have wonderful news!" Drishti announced, capturing everyone's attention.

"What's the good news?" Riddhima and Anjali asked in unison, their eyes wide.

"I can start college!" Drishti exclaimed, her smile radiant.

Anjali hugged her tightly. "I knew Advait wouldn't stop you from pursuing your dreams—especially not his wife!"

"Offo," Drishti groaned, playfully facepalming. "Do you both have to be so emotional?"

Everyone laughed, and Vihaan gave her a high five for her new chapter. Drishti beamed at her family, feeling grateful for their unwavering support.

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