"What about Gangtok?" Yashvi said softly, looking at the confused faces of all the youngsters who were suggesting different places for a family vacation. The elders just stared back with exasperation.

It was soon going to be a year since her marriage to Advik, and it had been a beautiful journey so far. From gaining a family to receiving so much love, she had everything. It was decided that the whole family would go on vacation for a few days, but everyone was confused about the destination. The elders weren't keen on foreign countries, while the youngsters wanted adventure and fun while spending time with family.

"Yes, the place is beautiful, offers adventure, and it's in India. We can visit nearby places too," Advik nodded in agreement, sitting in a corner with a frustrated expression. For the past hour, everyone had been suggesting different places, but not a single one had been finalized due to conflicting preferences.

Everyone looked at each other and finally nodded. Adya pulled out her phone, quickly searching for Gangtok and nearby places, and showing it to everyone.

"Okay then. I will call Aman and ask him to make the necessary arrangements. We will leave in a couple of days. Is that fine?" Advik asked, standing up with a sigh. He pulled out his phone, his eyes lingering on everyone for any signs of disagreement. Finding none and receiving a nod from his grandfather, he left the room.

"Yashvi, why don't you ask Amrita and Darsh to join us?" Sandhya, Advik's mother, cautiously suggested, looking at Yashvi. Yashvi looked at Sandhya with a contemplative expression. She was eager to spend time with her mother and brother, but unsure whether her mother would agree.

"If you want, I can talk to her," Yashodara, Advik's grandmother, said, gently caressing Yashvi's hair. Yashvi nodded softly in response.

"I wish Aashi di could join us," Adarsh said softly, with a sigh of sadness. Aashi was on her own vacation with her husband and son in Japan, a place she had always wanted to visit.

"It's fine. We'll enjoy a lot and send her plenty of photos," Adya replied with a grumpy sigh, standing up and hurrying towards her room.

Everyone chuckled as they looked at her, creating a happy atmosphere.

-----

Advik entered the room and was immediately enveloped in a warm hug by his wife, who showered him with kisses all over his face. She had a hunch that he was the one who had suggested to Sandhya to invite Amrita and Darsh to join them. Advik softly smiled, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close, leaning in for a soft kiss.

"Thank you so much. I'm going to make a list of things we need to pack. Let me check the temperature in Gangtok," Yashvi said excitedly, pulling away from the kiss and planting a peck on his jaw. She moved towards the side table and picked up her cell phone. Advik shook his head, a soft smile on his face as he walked over and sat beside her. He pulled her onto his lap, nuzzling into her neck and peeking at her phone.

"The temperature ranges between 10 to 18 degrees as it is October. Mildly cold, isn't it?" she softly asked, nervously biting her nails as she glanced at him. He nodded gently and planted a soft kiss on her shoulder, causing her to shiver. She playfully smacked his arm and pulled away, then retrieved a diary and pen.

In nearly a year of their marriage, he had come to understand that his wife was a perfectionist, perhaps even more so than himself.

"How will we travel?" she asked, poking at his arm. He pulled her closer, planting a kiss on her nose, which made her giggle.

"We'll take our private jet from here to Bagdogra, and then proceed to Gangtok by bus," he informed her, to which she nodded and began jotting down notes in her diary.

"I'll make a list of our essentials that we need to carry, and you'll pack them all up. Okay?" she asked, raising her eyebrows. He nodded, a hint of exasperation mixed with amusement.

"If I'm going to pack, I deserve a reward too," he teased, grabbing her waist and peppering kisses along her bare neck, which made her laugh out loud.

"Leave me now and look at the list. How long will the trip be?" Yashvi asked with a pout, scratching her head with the pen before looking at him.

"Nearly two weeks," he softly whispered, nuzzling into the crook of her neck, leaving dewy kisses on her shoulder.

"Advik, don't!" she said, pulling away from him and sitting up to face him while showing him the list. He sighed, grabbing the diary and going through it. She had jotted down all the essentials, from clothes to toiletries.

"Add a box of condoms. We will need it," he remarked with a smirk, bending towards the side table and grabbing a box. Yashvi was not very comfortable with contraceptive pills, as they caused her issues ranging from excess bleeding and nausea to bloating. Hence, they both decided to use condoms to avoid the chance of having a baby for now. They weren't exactly ready for a child and had mutually decided on it. A child should only come when the parents can fully invest their emotions. It had only been a year since their marriage, and they didn't want to rush things.

"Very funny. I will share my room with Adya," Yashvi teasingly said, standing up and walking towards the walk-in closet.

"Really?" he asked, grabbing her waist and scooping her into his arms, twirling her around, making her laugh loudly.

"It's not our honeymoon, Advik," she said, grabbing tightly onto his hands, to which he smirked, rubbing his cheeks against hers.

"Doesn't matter. I know how to make every trip of ours feel like a honeymoon," he teasingly said, setting her down as she rolled her eyes, a faint blush covering her cheeks.

"Let's do the packing," she said, pulling him along with her into the closet and opening her side.

-----

"Bhabhiiii," Adya screamed, entering their room with a tray filled with golgappe. Seeing no one in the room, she turned around with a sad pout but heard the faint murmurs of her brother and sister-in-law and immediately set the plate aside, walking towards the closet.

"Advik, this is the fifth top you're rejecting. Are you a businessman or a fashion influencer? I'm wearing what I wish to. Get lost from here now," Yashvi angrily screamed, throwing a top aside. They had been packing for three hours. They were done packing the essentials and Advik's clothes, but the problem started when Advik began rejecting every other dress of hers.

"I want us to choose clothes in the same shades of color. We will twin throughout the trip," he softly murmured, looking at her fuming face. Her anger evaporated listening to his cute wish, and she smiled widely, crossing her arms around his neck as he held her waist tightly, swinging them both.

"You could have told me then. You were irritating me throughout," she said, resting her head on his shoulder, which made him smile.

"You look cute when you're angry," he softly said, pecking her on the head, then heard a fake cough. Yashvi immediately pulled away from him and looked at the door where Adya was admiring them.

Adya had seen loving couples all her life, but the relationship between Advik and Yashvi seemed like a goal to her. Even though it was arranged, they had so much love, mutual respect, trust, and loyalty towards each other. The way her brother understood everything about her sister-in-law seemed too beautiful, and it was not one-sided. Yashvi reciprocated every gesture of his in her own way, from keeping fasts for each other to accepting their shortcomings. Her brother was not very vocal, but her sister-in-law understood everything. Advik had always been someone who avoided direct confrontations, either by being silent or by becoming busy with work. But Yashvi had always confronted him directly. Even though they had fights, they never stopped caring for each other. They seemed so beautiful to her.

"Bhabhi, I was passing by your favorite golgappa vendor, so I bought some for us. Let's have it, then I'll help pack your clothes. Come on," Adya softly said, admiring both of them lovingly.

"Bhai, will you have some too?" Adya softly asked, raising her eyebrows. Advik shook his head and walked out of the room.

Yashvi softly smiled at the golgappe. It was a small gesture, but it touched her heart. This was the reason she easily adjusted to the Mehrotra family. Everyone was so thoughtful and loving. Adya herself wasn't exactly fond of street food and preferred to ask a chef to make it at home, but because Yashvi loved it, she too started enjoying it.

Yashvi softly smiled at the golgappe. It was a small gesture, but it touched her heart. This was the reason she easily adjusted to the Mehrotra family. Everyone was so thoughtful and loving. Adya herself wasn't exactly fond of street food and preferred to ask a chef to make it at home, but because Yashvi loved it, she too started enjoying it.

-----

After landing in Bagdogra, Advik was talking to someone over the phone while Yashvi angrily glared at his back. Darsh chuckled looking at his sister as he put his arm around her, guiding her towards the travel bus while she murmured continuously to herself.

"Chill, Dii," he whispered teasingly, only for Yashvi to pinch him hard on his bicep, making him wince softly.

They were supposed to travel by bus to Gangtok, where they would stay for five days before visiting nearby places. Their accommodations were booked at Mehrotra Grand Hotels. Yashvi was extremely excited for this trip, as it was her first with her entire family.

"I am hungry," Adya said, pouting slightly as soon as she saw her brother entering the bus. Advik looked around as Darsh stood up, gesturing for him to sit. Darsh sat beside his wife, who smiled softly at him.

"We will first stop at a restaurant for lunch and from there, we will leave for Gangtok," Advik said, sitting beside his wife, who glared hard at him and looked away.

"It was an important phone call, Yashvi," Advik softly said, taking her hand in his, which she snatched away almost immediately.

"Advik, let's not talk about this. We will end up fighting," Yashvi softly said, opening her handbag and pulling out her earbuds and mobile phone. Playing a romantic track, she kept her head on his shoulder, snuggling closer to him.

"I was talking to Onyx Security Services. It was important. I promise, Yashvi, unless it's extremely important, I won't be busy with work here. All of me and my time is yours," he softly said, kissing her forehead again and again. He smiled as she pecked his bicep.

"I love you," she softly whispered, pecking his shoulder as he took her free earbud and put it on. "Kabhi Jo Badal Barse" was playing, perfectly complementing the rainy atmosphere. He smiled softly, caressing her pulse.

"I love you too," he softly said, pecking her hairline as she snuggled more into him.

"Ahem, ahem," Adarsh, Advik's younger brother, coughed slightly, making both of them pull away as Advait looked at them with a smirk.

"Bhai, let's sit over there. This place is not safe for us single souls," Advait teasingly said, smiling mischievously at his eldest brother. The youngsters were sitting behind; Darsh had come by now, sitting beside Adya. Adya and Darsh had turned into great friends with a platonic bond between them.

Yashvi looked at her mother, who was sitting alone, making her heart break a little for her. Sandhya, Yashvi's mother-in-law, saw that and immediately went to her, engaging her in conversation.

Advik followed her line of vision and sighed softly, squeezing her hand. She softly sighed, looking away and then back at him.

"My mother has been alone all through her life, Advik. You know, I had always seen this longing in her eyes, which I couldn't understand before, but now I realize it. She managed everything on her own, from her divorce to her pregnancy, and supported two children, providing us with all the facilities. She did it all alone, Advik, and in the end, she is the one left alone." She poured her heart out, thankful that they were at the farthest corner.

"And who said she is alone? She has two children who are willing to go to any length for her happiness," he softly said, caressing her hands.

"Advik, this is just for name's sake. Look at me; I don't have enough time to spend with her. Darsh is busy with his residency most of the time, and I am busy with my work and family. I know we take out time to visit her and all, but in the end, she is left alone. She too deserved love, Advik, which I am getting from you but she never got," Yashvi pointed out. Advik knew it was harsh, but in the end, it was the ultimate truth.

"Everything will be fine. Look at her," he said, pointing at his mother-in-law, who was laughing along with his mother and aunt. Her laughter was a replica of the way Yashvi laughed.

"She is happy right now, and we will make sure she stays that way. We can find ways to spend more time with her. Maybe invite her to stay with us more often, or plan regular family outings. She deserves to feel loved and supported, just like she gave to you and Darsh," he added, squeezing Yashvi's hand reassuringly.

Yashvi looked at her mother, the woman who had been her rock and her inspiration. Seeing her smile, even if just for now, brought a sense of relief. She leaned into Advik, feeling grateful for his support and understanding.

"You're right, Advik. We'll find a way. We'll make sure she knows she's not alone," Yashvi said softly, feeling a renewed sense of determination.

Advik smiled, kissing her forehead gently.

-----

"It is so pretty," Yashvi said, keeping her handbag aside as she looked around the hotel room. It was an extremely cozy presidential suite. A small smile played on Advik's lips as he locked the door and walked towards her, pulling her into a back hug and gently swaying them around.

He pecked the side of her head as she placed her hand over his. "We'll enjoy a lot. You know, it's our first family trip together. Everyone was so happy, isn't it?" she asked, turning to face him and pulling him closer, encircling her arms around his neck. He nodded happily, bending down to take her lips in a soft kiss.

"Go and freshen up quickly. I'll arrange our clothes in the wardrobe. After a short nap, we'll go for a small outing. The tour guide will be here in the next two hours," he said, pulling away from the kiss and pecking her nose to which she nodded softly. 

After taking a shower, Yashvi walked out, drying her hair with a towel, and looked at her husband, who was putting the empty luggage aside. "Won't you take a shower?" she asked, noticing his frown. He pulled her hand, leading her back into the bathroom and pulling out a hair dryer.

"You'll fall sick, Yashvi," he scolded, helping her dry her hair. She wasn't exactly a fan of using a hair dryer.

"I won't. Go take a shower. I'll lay out your clothes, and I'm going to Mumma's room. Okay?" she asked. He nodded, putting the hair dryer away after drying her hair.

As she started to walk away, Advik held her elbow, pulling her back towards him and trapping her between him and the counter. Her eyes widened as she tried to push him away.

"You look so pretty," he softly whispered, rubbing her lips sensuously, making her take a sharp breath.

"Take a shower," she said, trying to walk away, only to be hushed by him as he caressed her lower lip, his other hand holding her by the waist and lifting her onto the counter. She softly moaned his name as he caressed her neck. He smiled to himself, taking her lips into a kiss, which she reciprocated with equal vigor.

Before things could escalate further, a soft chime sounded. Yashvi pulled back slightly, breathless and flushed, looking around in confusion.

Advik chuckled, "That's the butler call. They must have come to check if we need anything."

She nodded, still catching her breath, as he pressed a button on the wall panel. Moments later, a polite knock was heard at the door. Advik gave her one last peck before stepping back to answer it, leaving Yashvi to compose herself.

-----

"Yashvi, keep a jacket at least. It will be cold soon," Advik said, grabbing a brown-colored coat for himself. Yashvi smiled faintly, checking her handbag while Advik sighed and grabbed her coat as well.

"Scarves?" he asked, and Yashvi nodded, pointing to her handbag. He chuckled at her excitement and put on his shoes while Yashvi placed her power bank and Polaroid camera inside. She loved Polaroid cameras for making journals, something she had done since her college days. Just a week before, Advik had gifted her the best Polaroid camera she could have imagined.

"Advik, where are we going? It's nearly four in the evening," she asked, wrapping a beige scarf around her neck.

"To a local cafe first, and then a museum. The tour guide will be here soon," Advik replied, taking her hand as they locked the room and headed downstairs, where everyone was waiting for them.

"Sir, I am Amish Sinha, your tour guide working under Mehrotra Tourism as an intern. I am a student pursuing a BBA in Tourism and Hospitality," a young man who looked like a college student said excitedly as he approached Advik and extended his hand.

Advik nodded at the young man, shaking hands with him. Seeing Amish's excitement fade a little, Yashvi poked Advik, gesturing for him to say something.

"Advik Mehrotra, and this is my wife, Yashvi Bansal," Advik introduced with a smile, looking at his wife.

"Sir, I have reserved a local cafe where you can have some food, and from there we will go to the Namgyal Institute of Technology," Amish said, looking at his phone. Advik nodded at him as he held Yashvi's hand, taking her handbag in the other hand, and they went inside the bus.

After a few minutes, they stopped at a local cafe as everyone quickly emptied the bus. Advik's grandparents were tired, so they decided to rest and told the group they would join them tomorrow.

Advik helped Yashvi off the bus, still holding her hand. The group walked towards the quaint local cafe, its warm lighting and inviting aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods welcoming them.

The cafe was cozy, with wooden interiors and large windows offering a beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Amish guided them to a reserved section near the window.

The menu featured a mix of local and popular cafe items. Yashvi looked around excitedly, while Advik perused the menu.

"Everyone, what do you feel like having?" Advik asked, looking around at the group as they settled into the cafe.

"I'd love to try the vegetable momos," Yashvi said, glancing at the menu.

"Great choice," Amish replied. "How about some thukpa as well? It's a local noodle soup that's supposed to be delicious."

"Yes, definitely!" Darsh chimed in. "And maybe we can get some sel roti and aloo dum too. I've heard they're really good here."

"Sounds perfect," Adarsh agreed. "Let's also order some paneer tikka and a few parathas for those who want something more familiar."

"Don't forget the drinks," Adya added. "I'll have a glass of fresh lime soda."

"Good idea," Advik said, signaling the waiter. "We'll have a few glasses of fresh lime soda and some masala chai as well."

The waiter nodded, noting down their order as the group chatted excitedly about the place.

"It is so delicious," Yashvi moaned in delight, taking a bite of momos as she looked at her husband, who was sipping on his hot thukpa. She dipped the momo into the spicy chutney and offered it to him, gesturing for him to eat. He gently held her hand, took a bite, and nodded in appreciation as she devoured the remaining momos.

"We won't be able to go to Namgyal Institute of Tibetology today. Papa hasn't joined us, and he really wanted to visit that place, so we'll go there tomorrow," Aakash, Advik's father, said cautiously as soon as they finished their food.

"I was thinking the same thing, Bhaiya," Alok added, looking at Adya and Advait, who turned sad upon hearing the news.

"Then we can go to MG Road. You all can try local cuisine, take a stroll around, do some shopping, and it's quite a photogenic place," Amish suggested.

"Okay then," Advik agreed, signaling the waiter to bring the bill and quickly paying it.

-----

Upon arriving at MG Road, the group split up to explore. Advik and Yashvi walked hand in hand, taking in the vibrant atmosphere. They stopped at a local shop, where Yashvi admired the beautiful Thangka paintings and Tibetan carpets. Advik, noticing her interest, decided to buy a painting for their home.

"Look at this one, Advik," Yashvi said, pointing to a stunning painting of a Buddha. "It's beautiful."

"Let's get it," Advik replied with a smile, pulling out his wallet.

As they walked further, the aroma of street food filled the air. They couldn't resist trying some local delicacies. They stopped at a stall and ordered aloo chat and pakoras, enjoying the flavors and the lively crowd around them.

"This is so good," Yashvi said, savoring the spicy aloo chat.

"It really is," Advik agreed, taking another bite of his pakora.

They found a bench and sat down, people-watching and enjoying the ambiance. Yashvi took out her polaroid camera and snapped a few pictures, capturing the essence of MG Road.

"Let's take a selfie," she said, holding the camera out. They posed, and the camera clicked, printing out a perfect snapshot of their moment.

As the evening progressed, they explored more shops and bought souvenirs for their family. Yashvi found a beautiful woolen shawl for her mother, and Advik picked up a few books on Sikkim's culture and history.

"Books even here, Advik?" Yashvi asked with a chuckle, holding his arm as they strolled side by side through the vibrant market.

"What's wrong with that?" he replied with a playful frown, intertwining their fingers. His gaze lingered on a display of old, weathered books outside a small shop.

Before he could indulge his curiosity, Adya's voice interrupted them.

"Bhabhi, come with me!" Adya called out, tugging Yashvi away before Advik could protest.

Advik sighed good-naturedly, handing over the shopping bags to his bodyguard who had been with him all this while. He instructed him to take the bags back to the bus and ensure they were safely stowed.

-----

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over MG Road, Advik and Yashvi found themselves walking hand in hand through the bustling market. The air was filled with the aroma of street food and the chatter of locals and tourists alike.

Advik stopped suddenly, pulling Yashvi gently towards a quieter corner where a street artist was painting a breathtaking sunset scene. He turned to her, his eyes reflecting the hues of the setting sun.

"Yashvi," he began softly, "this moment, right here with you, is perfect."

She smiled, her heart skipping a beat at the tenderness in his voice. "It really is," she whispered, feeling the warmth of his hand in hers.

He leaned closer, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "I love you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper but carrying all the depth of his feelings.

Yashvi felt her cheeks flush with warmth. "I love you too," she replied, her voice filled with love and sincerity.

"Both of you, romance can wait. Bhabhi, there are some beautiful dresses. Let's go and try them," Adya said boringly, avoiding her brother's glare as she once again pulled Yashvi along with her, making Advik sigh as he moved towards the bus.

-----

Advik stopped beside his father, who was lost in his own thoughts, and sat beside him.

"Papa, what's wrong?" he asked softly, pulling Aakash out of his thoughts.

"I didn't even realize how time flew by. It seems like just yesterday when I held you in my arms for the first time, and now look at you, married and shouldering all my responsibilities," Aakash spoke softly, his eyes shining with pride toward his children.

"Do you remember Madhav Gupta?" he asked, making Advik frown before nodding.

"Your old friend who owns a jewelry store, right?" Advik replied.

"Yes, him. He suggested a match for Adarsh. He's thirty now and has turned down all the proposals in the past year. I asked him if there was anyone special in his life, but he denied it. I've met the girl once. Esha Agrawal, she's an event manager, not as wealthy as us; her father owns three textile factories, and she has a younger sister. She seems like someone who would easily adjust to Adarsh. You know how he is. He's not as outgoing as Advait or as sharp as you," Aakash explained, pulling out his phone and handing over the biodata to Advik. Advik glanced at the details.

The woman was beautiful The woman was beautiful with a slightly darker shade of skin tone. She had sharp features and stood at a height of five feet four inches.

"Have you spoken to Adarsh about this?" Advik asked, forwarding the biodata to himself to show Yashvi later, then turning back to his father, who shook his head.

"You know how introverted Adarsh is. He dislikes people intruding on his personal space. Your mother tried talking to him, and he flatly said he would never marry," Aakash said with a frown, recalling his wife's disappointed expression.

Advik nodded thoughtfully, understanding the gravity of the situation. He had always known his brother Adarsh to be reserved and intensely private. The idea of marriage might not sit well with him unless approached delicately.

"Papa, I'll talk to Adarsh," Advik reassured, placing a comforting hand on his father's shoulder. "Let me handle this. Maybe he just needs a little time and space to think things through."

Aakash nodded gratefully, visibly relieved to have Advik take charge. "Thank you, beta. I know you understand him better than anyone else."

"I'll speak with him tonight," Advik affirmed, glancing again at the biodata on his phone. "And I'll discuss it with Yashvi too."

As they sat together, the bus began to move, signaling their departure from the MG road. Advik looked out the window, deep in thought about how to broach the topic with Adarsh. Meanwhile, Yashvi and Adya returned from their outing, chatting animatedly about the local shops they had explored.

Advik caught Yashvi's eye and gestured for her to join him. She sensed the seriousness in his expression and nodded, excusing herself from Adya's conversation. Sitting beside Advik, she leaned closer as he quietly explained the situation with Adarsh.

"He's so adamant about not marrying," Yashvi whispered, concern flickering in her eyes as she read through the details of the potential match. "Do you think he'll consider it?"

"I'm not sure," Advik admitted honestly. "But it's worth discussing. Adarsh might surprise us."

-----

After having dinner at the hotel, everyone made their way back to their rooms.

"I'll go talk to Adarsh," Advik said, changing into his night t-shirt and slipping on his slippers.

"Main bhi chalu?" Yashvi asked, applying moisturizer as she glanced at him. He shook his head, walking towards the door.

He knocked on Adarsh's bedroom door, feeling a bit nervous himself.

Adarsh opened the door after a few moments, looking surprised to see Advik standing there.

"Hey Bhaiya, come in," Adarsh said, stepping back to let Advik enter.

Advik entered the hotel room, glancing around at the neatly arranged space adorned with a minimalist decor and a view of the city lights from the window. He took a seat on one of the armchairs by the small coffee table, while Adarsh remained standing, looking expectantly at his elder brother.

"I wanted to talk to you about something important," Advik began, choosing his words carefully. "It's about your future."

Adarsh raised an eyebrow, curious. "My future?"

Advik nodded. "Papa mentioned something about a potential alliance."

Adarsh frowned slightly, puzzled. "Alliance? What do you mean?"

Advik hesitated, realizing Adarsh wasn't aware of the details. "Um, well, there's this girl... Madhav Gupta suggested her."

Adarsh's expression remained blank, prompting Advik to elaborate. "Her biodata was shared with Papa. She's an event manager, not as affluent as us, but from a respectable family."

Adarsh nodded slowly, processing the information. "Okay..."

Advik studied his brother's reaction, trying to gauge his thoughts. "What do you think about it?"

Adarsh shrugged nonchalantly. "I haven't really thought about marriage, Bhaiya. It's not something I've actively pursued."

Advik nodded understandingly. "That's okay. Marriage isn't something you rush into. It's important that you feel ready for it."

Adarsh looked thoughtful, staring at the floor for a moment before meeting Advik's gaze. "Do you think I should consider it?"

Advik sighed softly. "It's ultimately your decision, Adarsh. Marriage is about finding someone you connect with, someone who understands you. If you haven't felt that connection yet, it's perfectly fine to wait."

Adarsh softly smiled at his elder brother before going into the details. 

"Bhai, back in college, I dated a woman for about two months, and it was incredibly frustrating for me. She left despite all the effort she put into our relationship, saying I didn't have what it takes to make anyone happy. Money alone can't make her happy. She needed my time and attention, and I failed to give her that. I cherish my own space, and marriage feels like it would take that away from me," Adarsh said with a sigh. Adarsh was deeply introverted, having had just two friends throughout his life. He had spent his entire life with his family, making them the center of his attention. He was soft-hearted and highly emotional.

"Maybe she wasn't the right one for you? I'm not saying what you did was right. It wasn't, obviously. But are you planning to remain single all your life just because of that?" Advik asked, leaning back in his chair and gesturing for Adarsh to take a seat.

"I have all of you by my side," Adarsh countered, looking away.

"Adarsh, be practical. I'm not saying it's impossible to live without a life partner, but honestly, it's tough. I didn't understand it before, thinking it was just a societal rule, but after marriage, I realized how important it is to have someone you can call your own, share your sorrows with, and double your happiness with. Tomorrow, Adya and Advait will be married, and eventually, we'll all have kids. Eventually, you'll find yourself alone even if all of us are around. I'm not asking you to marry now, but at least think about it. Meet the girl, and if you think it can work, then give it a chance," Advik said softly, looking at Adarsh expectantly as he listened.

"When you reach your forties and look around, you'll see all of us settled with our own little families. The loneliness you might feel then would be tough to battle. I'm not saying marriage is the solution to all problems, because it's not. But having a partner makes us stronger. Marriage isn't a bed of roses; it comes with its share of fights. You might not get the personal space you have now, but you will evolve with time. When I married Yashvi, I was skeptical, but look at us now. I'm ready to do anything for her happiness. She's always there for me—on my bad days, my good days, and even when I'm going through failures. She doesn't judge me; she just stands by my side, motivating me. Just because you had a bitter experience and someone told you that you can't make anyone happy, doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a try," Advik said, trying to make Adarsh understand.

Adarsh sat silently, absorbing his brother's words. He knew deep down that Advik was right, but the fear of repeating past mistakes and the comfort of his current solitude held him back.

"I get what you're saying, Bhai," Adarsh finally said, looking at his hands. "But what if I can't make it work? What if I'm just not meant for that kind of relationship?"

Advik leaned forward, placing a reassuring hand on Adarsh's shoulder. "No one is perfect, Adarsh. We all have our flaws and fears. But it's about finding someone who accepts you for who you are and is willing to work through those imperfections together. The right person will understand your need for space and will help you find a balance. Give yourself a chance to find that person."

Adarsh sighed, nodding slightly. "Okay, Bhai. I'll meet her. But I can't promise anything more than that."

"That's all I'm asking for," Advik said with a smile. "Just meet her with an open mind. You never know, she might be the one who understands and complements you in ways you never imagined."

Adarsh managed a small smile. "Thanks, Bhai. I'll try."

Advik patted his shoulder before standing up. "Good. Now, get some rest. We have a long day ahead tomorrow."

As Advik left the room, he felt a sense of relief. He hoped that this meeting would help Adarsh see that love and companionship were worth the risk. Walking back to his room, he found Yashvi reading a book.

"How did it go?" she asked, looking up from her book.

Advik smiled, sitting beside her. "I think he'll give it a try. It's a small step, but it's a start."'

Yashvi smiled, leaning against him. "I'm glad. Adarsh deserves to be happy."

"He does," Advik agreed, wrapping an arm around her. "And so do we. Thank you for being my rock."

Yashvi looked up at him, her eyes filled with love. "Always, Advik. Always."

Advik smiled, gently taking the book from Yashvi's hands and setting it aside. He lifted her into his arms, carrying her to the bed with a tenderness that made her heart flutter. As he delicately placed her down, she felt the warmth of his hand caressing her cheek. He trailed feathery kisses along her jawline, each touch filled with love and reverence. Yashvi pulled him closer, her fingers tangling in his hair as she reached over to switch off the lights. The room was enveloped in darkness, but the love between them shone brightly, guiding them as they lost themselves in each other's embrace.

In the dim glow of the room, their love felt even more intimate and profound. Advik's kisses grew deeper, more passionate, as Yashvi responded with equal fervor. Their hearts beat in unison, a silent symphony of devotion and desire.

"I love you," Yashvi whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with emotion. Advik's hand gently traced the curve of her face, his eyes locked onto hers.

"I love you too," he murmured back, his voice husky with emotion. "More than anything."

They lay together, their bodies entwined, savoring the closeness and the warmth of each other's presence. The world outside ceased to exist, leaving only the two of them in their cocoon of love.

As the night wore on, they spoke in hushed tones about their dreams and hopes, sharing secrets and laughter. Yashvi's fingers traced patterns on Advik's chest, a soothing motion that lulled them both into a state of blissful contentment.

Eventually, the conversation dwindled, replaced by the soft, rhythmic sound of their breathing. Advik pulled Yashvi closer, wrapping his arms around her protectively. She nestled into him, feeling safe and cherished.

"Goodnight, love," Advik whispered, pressing a final kiss to her forehead.

"Goodnight," Yashvi replied, her voice filled with happiness and love.

Together, they drifted into a peaceful sleep, holding onto the precious moments of their love.

-----

Long time indeed. I was missing the Mehrotras, Yashvi and Advik so thought to pen it down.

I am quite blank related to the previous bonus but this one will be continued further.

<3