First of all. Huge sorry for making you all wait for so long. We know it was so freaking long. But we were literally too busy with life.

Hope this longggg chapter will make up for the wait though.

And don't worry. We surely won't drop the book ever and will definitely finish it as it is really close to our hearts. You guys just be patient with us.

Dedicated to all of you amazing people.

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Arohi's POV

I honestly wish I had some powers to control time, just so that I can skip time. And yes, today is one specific day I want to avoid. Why? Because I hate parties. And I have to attend one because of my dear best friend's continuous blackmailing for the past one week.

The other reason being Rohan. I'm just not ready to face him because of my new found stupid feelings. I want to avoid him as much as I can. Specifically after what Aai said to me that night.

Love.

That's the exact word she used. I didn't know the word which runs the world, which lights up even the darkest of minds could steer fear in me. I don't know since when did I start to fear that word. I've traveled the depths of it and what did I not do in love. There have been countless days when I wished to be loved and to love. I've wished for some miracle to happen and bring Rahul back to me. Back then it was just love, love for Rahul, that's all I felt. I was at peace even though I lived for nothing. Just waiting for death to bless me and reunite me with Rahul.

But now, I find myself running away from that word. Just that mere mention of it brings fear, guilt, confusion, and heartbreak for me. And the reason being one person. Rohan Nanda. I still don't know what I feel for him. I just know that he's dangerous to my perfectly ordinary life. Things have not been the same after he entered my life, I've not been the same.

I haven't seen or spoken to him since our last meet at my parent's house. Even he didn't make any efforts to reach to me after that, for which I'm partly thankful and partly annoyed.

My trail of thoughts were broken by the ringing of my mobile. I took it from the table beside my bed and let out a sigh when I saw the caller ID. I guess yet another session of emotional yet violent blackmailing.

"Yes Jenny, I know what are you gonna say but...." My efforts to change her mind went into vain when she cut me off in between with her ever so loud voice or you can say shouting.

"No buts Aro darling. You are so gonna come with me." She said with determination dripping from her voice.

"But I don't have anything to wear. I haven't picked out any outfit and you know it's a big party. I can't possibly come wearing something ordinary when everyone will be wearing designer clothes and looking their best. Also, there's gonna be a lot of media and paparazzi. So..." I intentionally didn't buy any outfit to get out of this. She can't argue with that. It is, in fact, a big party with the whole Bollywood and Business people coming under the same roof to celebrate Diwali. Its gonna be super crowded and just the thought of that made me want to puke.

"I know you will say this darling. I know you too well. That's why I've already picked out a designer dress for you and my makeup and hair people are already on their way to your house to help you get ready for the party. So hurry up already. I'll meet you directly at the venue. And if you don't show up there in an hour or so then I'm gonna come to your house and drag you from there no matter in which state you are. Hope you understood that." She finished and I can imagine the victorious smirk forming on her lips. I rolled my eyes at her even though she can't see me.

"Yes, ma'am. I'll be there once I get finished with whatever you have in store..." I said finally accepting my defeat after my final failed attempt.

"That's like a good kid. I'll see you then, love. Don't be late." She said. Just when the doorbell rang.

"Yes, Jenny. I guess your gang is here. I'll see you at the party then..." I let out a sigh thinking it's actually gonna happen, I'm gonna be at the party, much to my dislike.

"Yeah! I'll be waiting for you, baby." Her cheery voice said. I made my way to downstairs toward the main door.

"And oh yeah, the dress better be good else I won't be wearing that or coming to the party." I said finding yet another excuse to be not at the party and hoping that the dress will be bad enough for me to reject and just stay at home. But knowing Jenny, I doubt if that's gonna happen, her choices are way too good to reject.

"As I said, I know you too well baby and I know you're gonna love it for sure. Thank me for the dress later. See you soon. Bye! " Jenny said and cut the call. I took yet another sigh and opened the door as Jenny's crazy gang entered the house.

They greeted me with a hug and I returned it back. There were three of them. Shraddha, Nikita and Tanvi. I've known these girls since I started hanging out with Jenny. And knowing these girls, I can say they are amazing! Personally and professionally.

Tanvi showed me the dress I was gonna wear for the night. The dress was anything but gorgeous! If anything could make me happy and sad at the same time, it was that dress. Sad, because now I can't reject it and I've to go to that diwali party. Happy, because it was so pretty and I've never worn any designer clothes except for the times when I did photoshoots for magazines and when I walked for a designer. I rarely attend any functions to be wearing them anyway.

"This is so pretty..." I said touching the fabric, doubting myself in doing justice to the dress.

"Yes it is! But you will make it look even prettier!" Shraddha said with a cheerful smile.

"Thank you, Shraddha..but..." I still had my doubts.

"Stop doubting yourself, Arohi. You will look fab in that dress." Nikita smiled at me genuinely and I smiled back at her.

"Now let's get you ready. You don't want to be late and get killed by Jenny." Tanvi reminded me and we all burst out laughing.

With that they started their work, I just sat there patiently for them. I barely know anything about makeup and has not been a fan of it too. So everytime Shraddha took something to apply on my face, I told her to keep it light. My face felt heavy with all the creams or whatever. I was not liking it at all. Nikita was doing my hair and Tanvi was choosing the right accessories to go with the dress.

Finally after an hour, we were done. The girls didn't let me look at myself in mirror throughout the process. They said I've to wait and I'll be surprised in the end. So I just did as I was told, I didn't have any other choice.

"You look so beautiful...!" Nikita said looking at me dreamily accompanied by the other two girls.

"Okay...now can I see myself?" I asked confused.

"Yes!" All three said in unison.

I chuckled at them and stepped in front of the full length mirror.

For a moment I didn't recognise the girl in the mirror.

Was it really me?

I looked different, a good different. Judging by the amount of times Shraddha had applied creams and powders to my face, it still looked light and seemed like I just did my eyes and lips and nothing else. How is that possible? My hair and accessories went well with the dress and me. For the first time, I felt confident in my look and I couldn't thank these guys enough.

"So what do you think?" Shraddha asked me, curiosity taking the best of her.

"I love it! Thank you so much guys! I don't know when I've looked this good. Thank you for making me look good." I said genuinely with a smile.

"No Arohi, its not us, its you. You are beautiful." Tanvi said smiling at me.

"Lots of boys are gonna have a hard time keeping their eyes off you." Nikita said winking at me with a teasing smile.

"I agree!" Shraddha and Tanvi said nodding their heads at me with a wide smile. I chuckled at them. They sure were great team. No wonder why Jenny's every look is so perfect and beautiful.

They left soon after and I said my goodbye with a tight hug, thanking them once again.

I went back into my room to get my purse. I checked myself in the mirror once again letting out a deep breath.

Yes, I'm ready for the night.

I took my mobile and dialed Jenny's number to let her know that I'm on my way to the party before she actually comes all the way here after losing her cool. I grabbed my purse and made my way to the door.

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Just as I expected. The venue was huge. And so was the crowd. I felt some nervousness surfacing me. The media was not allowed inside the main gate. I thanked God for that. Now I don't have to do the whole posing for the camera thing.

The party was held at the mansion of Mr. Avinaash Kapoor, one of the most leading businessman in India. The whole place was lit up by beautiful lights. There were few people standing outside in the garden talking, clicking pics and just enjoying their drink.

I got out of my car and walked in as I didn't find the ones I'm looking for in the little group standing out in the garden.

As soon as I entered through the main door, I found myself being lost in the big crowd of my fellow beings. Some faces were known to me and still many were unknown. The hall was filled with laughter, talks and the loud music from the dance floor. Everyone was busy in their own world, while the majority of them were standing in their groups and having a great time chit-chatting, others were dancing it out on the dance floor. There was a crowd around the bar area and then another set of people who were busy walking around socializing.

I felt left out of place, a sense of not belonging. I wish Vivek came with me but he couldn't because of some prior commitment and I had to come alone. Although he did promise me that he'll make it once he was done with the work.

I sighed not being able to spot any of them. I took my phone out and was about to call Jenny when I heard my name being called. I looked at the direction of the voice to find Raghav walking towards me. I felt relieved when I saw him, a smile involuntarily crept across my lips.

"AROHI!! You're finally here." Raghav said overenthusiastically when he came near me.

"I know right. Even I'm surprised." I said being half sarcastic.

"You sure don't like parties at all, huh?!" Raghav asked raising his eyebrows at me with a playful smile plastered on his face.

"That obvious?" I asked raising my eyebrows at him.

"Yup!" He said still smiling. I let out a sigh. Raghav chuckled at me before continuing. "Anyway, you are looking...wow! What's special about tonight, Arohi?" He wiggled his eyebrows at me, teasing.

"Oh please, Raghav! No more teasing." I said rolling my eyes at him and smiling at the end.

"I definitely wasn't teasing with the 'wow' part. You really look that beautiful." He said with a genuine smile. I returned it back.

"Well, you don't look bad yourself, Mr.Raghav Mehra." I punched him lightly on his shoulder with a soft chuckle.

"Thank you, Ms. Arohi. Glad you finally noticed that." He said giving me a smirk which immediately got replaced by a small laugh as he put his arm around my shoulder pulling me in for a side hug. I felt comfortable for the first time since I entered the party.

"Where is Jenny?" I asked looking around as we pulled away from the hug.

"I don't know where exactly Jenny went as she got overexcited after coming here and we lost her somewhere," Raghav said looking here and there as I guess in an attempt to find Jenny before meeting my gaze again.

"Wah! I guess that means she wouldn't have even noticed if I haven't come here after all."

"Are you kidding me? She has asked dozens of times about you already. And she was all ready to go to your house too if you haven't shown up in the next 10 minutes. She even asked me to be ready with the car, in case." He said shaking his head a bit. I let out a laugh at that.

"Well, that's Jenny after all," I said smiling at Raghav who chuckled in return.

"Yup definitely." He said smiling at me. "So, should we go?"

"Umm... to where?" I asked being confused.

"Rohan and Arjun are standing there. Don't you wanna meet them?" Raghav asked gesturing behind me. The nervousness which was long gone now resurfaced me after hearing his name. I didn't look back at the direction Raghav gestured even though my instinct was to do so.

"Umm... Yeah sure. Maybe..." I said in a low unsure voice dropping my gaze to the ground. Raghav's smile faded seeing my face. A frown took over it.

"Maybe?" Raghav asked being confused. "Arohi, are you OK?"

"Yeah, I guess... Don't worry. Let's just go." I said meeting his gaze again with a smile plastered on my face. He gave me a small smile. I know he wasn't convinced by my answer but he didn't force any further questions and I was thankful for that.

"Okay! But if there is anything, I'm a good listener and at times a good adviser too." He said giving me his ever so wide smile. A smile automatically took over my lips looking at him.

"I don't doubt about listener but adviser? Really?" I asked raising my eyebrow at him.

"Oh, I so am. How do you think Rohan has achieved this much of stardom?" He said raising his eyebrows at me. I looked at him for some time before breaking into laughter.

"OH yes. Of course." I said in between the laughs. Raghav just looked at me with a genuine wide grin on his face. As always, he managed to make me laugh hard without much effort. I'm seriously glad to have him as my closest and most reliable friend.

"Don't worry. I'll definitely tell you if there is anything. Now let's just go." I said giving him a grateful smile. Raghav nodded at me as we made our way towards Rohan and Arjun with my heart beating rapidly with each step I took.

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Raghav and I made our way through the crowd of people towards Rohan and Arjun. As we neared them I didn't miss to notice how gorgeous and dapper Rohan looked in that attire of his with hair gelled up perfectly.

"Guys, look who is finally here," Raghav said enthusiastically to Arjun and Rohan, who were in some deep serious conversation that they didn't even notice we were standing near them.

They both looked startled hearing Raghav's voice but recovered themselves almost immediately as they gave us wide smiles. Arjun came and gave me a tight side hug. I smiled back at Arjun, returning the hug. I intentionally avoided looking at Rohan but I could still feel his eyes on me.

"THANK GOD!" Arjun said with a genuine wide smile. "And thank you so much Arohi for coming all the way here even though when you were least interested. I was honestly tired of hearing Jenny's loud voice." I let out a laugh at that so did Raghav.

"I can totally understand you, Arjun," I said giving Arjun a sympathized look.

"Don't even try to sympathize with him, Arohi. He will back off as soon as he will spot Jenny." Raghav said with a plain face, shaking his head a bit looking at Arjun. Arjun rolled his eyes at Raghav in return.

"I'm not like you, Joker. I stick by my words. Do you want me to show you?" Arjun asked in a challenging tone to Raghav.

"Fine! I don't mind at all. Say what you said a few minutes back in front of Jenny. " Raghav said smirking at Arjun.

"Sure I will... I will definitely show you that I'm not afraid of anyone, alright?" Arjun said shrugging his shoulders, looking little nervous as he might have got where this will eventually go.

"Fine then." Raghav smiled devilishly, rubbing his hands together. I shook my head a little trying to suppress a smile. It's not every day that you see Raghav Mehra like this.

But I stepped in between for Arjun's rescue. I definitely don't want to ruin this night for me or Arjun and spend it with Jenny and her loud voice. We both are anyway tired of hearing it for the past few days now.

"Guys! Guys!! Stop, seriously. No one has to show anything to anyone. And not especially to Jenny." I said making my voice a bit louder just to get their attention. And all this while I didn't fail to notice how silent Rohan was. He didn't even utter a single word till now. I don't think I will ever get my question answered as to why this guy is so complicated in the first place?

"Were you guys talking about me?" We froze at our position when we saw Jenny coming towards us with a smile. She was looking gorgeous without a doubt. I smiled wide at her as I went and engulfed her in a hug. Jenny squeezed me back.

"Yes, Arjun..." Raghav was saying when I cut him in between with a glare.

"Arjun was saying where did you go after inviting me here." I completed the sentence for Raghav and again glared at him, sending silent threats to not open his mouth. From one corner of my eye, I could see Arjun's tensed posture relaxing a bit as he let out a sigh.

"Well, no one told me that you came. Thank god I spotted you now else I would have reached your home." Jenny said folding her arms over her chest.

"Well you know, you can anytime call me Jenny. You don't have to make this much effort." I said with a bit of sarcasm in my voice.

"When have you just listened to me like that?" Jenny said rolling her eyes at me. "By the way, someone is looking gorgeous in that dress," Jenny said smirking at me. I rolled my eyes at her trying to hide the smile.

"Yeah! I wore it anyway as I didn't have anything better." I said in a challenging tone.

"You bitch..." She said shaking her head a little with a small smile. I gave her a wide grin in return.

"Why are you so serious Mr. Nanda? Did anything happen?" Jenny asked looking to the side at Rohan with a concerned voice. She might have noticed the unusual silence and blank look on Rohan's face. The three of us followed the suit and looked in Rohan's direction. He immediately plastered a smile on his face, a smile that wasn't reaching his eyes. I could tell from the look of his face that something was wrong, something was bothering him. But again, I didn't know what it was and I guess, I'll probably never know. I also made up my mind to not ask.

"Hmm..? Nah! I'm good." He said trying to sound as convincing as he can.

"Ohkay but you aren't looking..." Jenny was saying something when Arjun beat her to it.

"Jenny, don't you have to go and meet Harshad? Look he is there. Come on, let's go!" He said almost pulling Jenny with him to somewhere. I don't really know who Harshad is and I don't even want to know because I was too busy worrying for Rohan. So, I just ignored them.

"Yes but Arohi..." Arjun again cut Jenny's sentence in between and pulled her further with him.

"Don't worry. Raghav and Rohan are here with her. She will be fine. We will be back guys." Arjun said and then disappeared somewhere in the crowd with Jenny.

I looked at Rohan and then at Raghav who in return just gave me a small smile.

"I'll be somewhere near." Raghav patted my shoulder with a small smile and left me all alone with him.

Few moments went by in the awkward silence. I didn't make any effort to start off the conversation. Even when I was dying from inside to talk to him.

"Are you mad at me?" Rohan broke the silence after few minutes. I looked at him only to find his gaze fix on the ground.

"What?" I asked being unsure if I heard him correctly.

"You are ignoring me for some days now." He said calmly and looked up at me meeting my gaze. His chocolate brown eyes bore into my hazel orbs searching for some answers. But I looked away afraid that he might read me.

"I'm not ignoring you, Rohan." That's all I said not meeting his eyes. Rohan let out a deep sigh.

"Then tell me what is it? Why do you keep behaving like that?" Rohan asked in a calm tone. No expressions were displayed on his face. I couldn't figure out what exactly was he thinking. Does he really care or is it just a formality? Is it killing him too or is it just me?

"Like what? I have always been like this." I said still avoiding the eye contact.

"Are you kidding me? Don't I know you?" He said again but this time with a little anger in the voice. I looked at him only to find him turning his head away from me, letting out a deep breath to recover himself. I smiled to myself a little, feeling happy that my silence and ignorance towards him was affecting him. His anger was a sign that he cared.

I stared at him for some time waiting for him to say something but when he refused to say anything I continued. "Rohan, you are thinking way too much... Anyways, are you OK?"

He didn't respond or even spare me a look. Instead, his eyes were fixed on something or rather someone. I tried following his gaze but couldn't figure out who or what it was as there were too many people around.

"Yeah, I'm good. Don't worry. Just act like I don't exist like you were doing for the past few days." Rohan said just when I moved my gaze back to him. His face was calm but I could see the anger and frustration behind it. Whether I'm the reason behind it or not, I can never tell. But I wish for him to let it all out for once and free himself from whatever that's weighing him down.

"Rohan..." I was trying to say when a cheerful girl's voice cut me in between.

"Rohan, OMG are you really here?" I followed the direction of the voice to see a girl somewhere near my age come and hug Rohan. Rohan plastered a smile on his face and hugged her back.

"I guess," Rohan said pulling back still smiling at her. She returned the smile showing off her dimples. She definitely was a pretty girl of average height. I don't know why but I got some good vibes from her, maybe it's her smile that reached her eyes or her cheerful personality.

"I mean of course I heard about it but then I didn't expect to see you here at the party at all." She said again with an excited voice. Rohan didn't respond much as his expressions stayed the same instead of matching to the girl's cheerful ones.

"Yeah... But how are you, Shanaya?" He asked in a calm voice.

"I'm great. What about you?" Shanaya as Rohan mentioned, responded with that smile never leaving her face. It was pretty clear that she was more than happy to see Rohan and somewhere I got the feeling that he was happy to see her too. I could see the genuineness in his smile and the softness in his eyes as he looked at her.

"I'm good too," Rohan said with a small smile just when a hard voice interrupted their conversation.

"Hey man! What's up?" The owner of the voice, a tall guy, walked up to Rohan giving him a manly hug. Rohan returned it back but it seemed like a formality. The smile wasn't really going to both of their eyes.

"I'm good, Abhi," Rohan said and I felt some tension in the air. I don't know what their exact relation is but at the moment there was some awkwardness between the three. Abhi, as Rohan mentioned him, stepped back and stood with Shanaya putting his hand behind her waist as they both exchanged a smile. It seemed like they were a couple.

"That's great. It's really good to see you again." Abhi said, now looking at Rohan with a genuine smile.

I was just standing there invisible. Abhi and Shanaya didn't even notice my presence as I was standing a little away from them. Besides, I was not needed there. It seemed like these three had some history which may be the cause for the tension and awkwardness between them. I obviously didn't want to get involve and I felt it's better to leave them alone now. Anyway, I don't think Rohan is even in a mood to talk to me. I let out a sigh and was turning away when I heard Rohan's voice.

"Arohi, wait." I turned again to look at Rohan to see him coming towards me. Abhi and Shanaya followed his suit. They came and stood near in front of me while Rohan was standing beside me. I gave Rohan a confused look. He smirked at me and slid his hand behind on my waist and pulled me a little closer. I gasped a little and threw another confused look at him. He just blinked his eyes at me giving a playful smile. God knows what is going on in his head now. Actually no, even God won't be able to tell that.

"Abhi, Shanaya, you haven't met Arohi, right?" Rohan asked them and then looked back at me with a grin.

"Oh yeah, sorry I didn't see you there." Shanaya said with an apologetic smile and I could feel the genuineness in her voice. I gave her a reassuring smile.

"By the way, I'm Shanaya. I, Abhi and Rohan went to the same school." She said extending her hand to me. I took it with a smile. She seemed really nice.

"Oh, I see," I said with a smile shaking her hand.

"Well Hi, I'm Abhimanyu but feel free to call me Abhi," Abhi said with a warm smile.

"Yeah, sure." I smiled back at him with a nod. "You both together?" I asked being unsure about my question. I didn't know if I should have asked that in the first place but I did anyway.

"Yes, we are married," Abhi said smiling at me and so did Shanaya.

"Oh, that's great! You both make a very beautiful couple." I said genuinely smiling at them.

"Thank you, Arohi! Actually, I am a big fan of yours. I have heard all of your songs. You are just amazing." Shanaya said again with a little excitement. I smiled at her.

"Thanks. Well, I'm still learning and trying to improve myself." I said genuinely.

"Don't be too formal Arohi. Everyone here knows you are great." Rohan said moving closer to me with his one hand still resting on my waist protectively.

"She just goes shy when someone praises her." He looked at Abhi and Shanaya and then back at me. "Right sweetheart?" He pulled me yet again more close to him. I desperately wanted to take his hand off of me as his touch and his closeness was affecting me. I've never been this close to him in public and I felt my heart rate increasing as I found myself trying not to blush.

Why is he doing this?!

"Huh?" I asked looking at him being clueless. All three pair of eyes were on me and I was clueless about what the heck was going on!

I looked at Rohan conveying my questions through my eyes. And the look Rohan gave me said it all. He just wanted me to play along with him, for whatever reasons. And one reason being crystal clear to me that Rohan was using me for his own purpose.

Maybe, Shanaya and Rohan have had some past. Were they in love? Then who is Abhi? How did they end up together? I'm not sure about my speculations yet I had a feeling that I'm right.

I felt some jealousy building over me imagining Rohan and Shanaya together. Even though I liked Shanaya still, her being with Rohan at some point in past made me uncomfortable. And the thought of Rohan using me to get them wasn't helping either. Nevertheless, I decided to play along as I didn't have any choice. He better make it up to me with proper explanation to my questions. I gave him a look which conveyed the same and he just smiled at me in assurance.

"Are you two dating or what?" Shanaya's voice broke the silent conversation that we were having with our eyes. We both looked at her. I was trying to process her question.

Did I hear it right?

"What?" I asked in a low voice ignoring the stares from two people standing right in front of me. I'm too bad at lying. I haven't really done that. But I have to do it today just for Rohan and his pleading eyes.

"Umm... We aren't as of now. Just in process of getting to know each other." I said as confidently as I can and looked at Rohan with a smile playing on my lips as I shifted more into his arms.

I was surprised at myself. I didn't know I could pull that off this effortlessly. I don't have to say that my actions took him by surprise as he looked a little taken aback but he recovered himself as his famous smirk found it's way back to his face and he looked ready to play along too.

"Woh! That's great. If you end up being together then I'll be happy for you two." Shanaya said with a huge smile. OK! I'm not getting anything. What is even happening here? She is looking just fine then what is Rohan's deal? But then again what am I even thinking. It is Rohan Nanda after all.

"So, When are you going back, Rohan?" Abhi asked Rohan.

"Why? Don't you like seeing me here, Abhi?" Rohan said in a sarcastic tone, looking at Abhi with a smile or should I say a mocking smile.

"I just asked, dude. Just... you know so that we can catch up sometime maybe." Abhi said defending himself. Shanaya looked uneasy throughout the exchange.

"Sorry but I don't think I'll be staying that long now," Rohan said shrugging his shoulders a bit.

"Oh okay!" Abhi said nodding his head a bit. Even though Shanaya was being cheery, Rohan and Abhi didn't seem that easy with each other. Some tension seems to be there between them. I wonder is it because of Shanaya? Or there is some other thing. Gosh, I'm thinking way too much. Rohan and his complex life to the credit.

"So, you two are collaborating, right? Can't wait to hear the album from both of my favorite singers." Shanaya said breaking the tension building in the air.

"You'll soon hear it, Shay. Arohi was great anyway so it was easier for me to record it." Rohan said looking at me again. The looks he was giving me and his constant touch on my waist were making it hard for me to stay sane. But that in a way was helping as Abhi and Shanaya were buying the story.

"Rohan Nanda praising someone. That doesn't happen every day." Shanaya said giving me a known smile. I tried hard not to blush at her compliment but failed anyway. I looked down instead. I heard Rohan chuckle beside me. I knew it was all for a show, whatever he said or did but I couldn't help myself from blushing. I really am becoming a mess.

"Well, I don't just praise anyone. She deserves it." He said smiling at me and then looked at Shanaya, who had some dreamy expression on her face.

"Oh stop it, Rohan." I punched Rohan playfully with my elbow and looked at Shanaya. "Don't listen to him. He is just saying that. I'm not really that good as he is making it."

"You guys already seem to be so much in love. That's great. I hope to hear some good news soon. Shanaya and I will definitely be there." Abhi said looking at Shanaya and then back at us. I smiled back at them not knowing how to respond to that.

"Sure buddy. Why not. We will definitely invite you guys." Rohan said giving a huge smile to them. I looked at Rohan surprised by what he said but my face showed zero emotion. He looked down at me as his eyes held me with its intensity. At that moment, I wished for all these lies to turn into truth. I wanted to believe whatever lies we told and go on living those lies but then, I looked away.

What the hell was I thinking?! I shouldn't feel that way...

I looked at the happy couple before me and pressed a smile at them. From the corner of my eye, I could see Rohan still looking at me. Did he know what I was thinking? Did he read me? I didn't feel that comfortable anymore. The conversation was getting more and more awkward so I thought it will be only better for us or at least for me to leave the place now.

"Rohan, I'm hungry. Should we go and eat something?" I asked again turning to Rohan with pleading eyes. Rohan still had his eyes fixed on me, analyzing my every movement. I felt uncomfortable under his intense gaze but was happy that he got the hint.

"As you say." He said with a smile and I could say that he was thankful and relieved at the same time. I mentally sighed as I felt more relieved than him. I just wanted to get out of there.

"Sorry guys. Gotta go." Rohan said to Abhi and Shanaya who in return nodded in understanding.

"Sure." Abhi said extending his hand to Rohan who shook it willingly.

"Stay in touch, Rohan," Shanaya said with a smile as she gave short hug to Rohan, who hugged her back. Rohan's arm left my waist and I felt like I was released from some intoxication, I felt relieved but at the same time, I missed his protective arm around me. "By the way, I forgot to tell you that you guys look amazing together and I really hope you two will end up together." She said with a genuine smile looking at me and then Rohan. I somewhat felt bad lying to her. She doesn't seem to be a bad person. In fact, she is hoping for best for Rohan and here he is being insecure for God knows what reason.

"Thanks, Shanaya. I hope so too." I said forcing a smile not feeling good about the show we put up. It felt like a sin to lie to her now, especially when she only wish good for Rohan. And I had to lie to her face about something that will never happen.

"Thanks, Shay." Rohan said.

"Tell us when you come back. We will catch up then." Abhi said to Rohan, to which Rohan shook his head.

"Sure. Bye."

"Bye," Shanaya said as I turn around after giving her a warm smile. I walked away from there as fast as possible with Rohan following me behind.

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I paved my way through the crowd into the garden from a back door. I felt at peace when the silence of the night and the cool atmosphere hit me as I stepped out. The loud music and noise from the party seemed to fade away as I walked deeper into that garden. There weren't many people there, in fact, there were no people around. I sighed to myself in relief.

Finally some time alone.

I walked aimlessly as the decorative lights and the moonlight guided my path. I stopped walking as soon as I felt his presence behind me. I didn't feel the need to turn around to check if I was right. I just knew it was him.

I waited for him to say something and I heard nothing but his silence. I took a deep sigh and turned around to see him looking at the ground kicking stones. His features looked relaxed.

"Rohan!! Aren't you going to say anything?" I asked him when he didn't show any sign of talking.

"What?" Rohan asked looking up at me acting clueless. I let out a sigh and tried to stay calm even though it irritated me.

"Well, I need to know something after helping you out this much," I asked crossing my arms on my chest. I had decided not to bring up whatever talk that was pending between us, at least not this night. I thought even he was not in the mood but now that he followed me to this garden, ruining my lone time then I will as well make use of it and get the answers I want.

"Helping out? Oh, you mean with Abhi and Shanaya?" He was still acting and it was honestly getting on my nerves. What is his problem? Why he has to hide so many things?

"Don't act!" I said with a stern voice.

"I'm not acting... But were you really helping me? Or telling the truth?" Rohan said with a smirk shrugging his shoulders. That's it! He can't do this always. I wasn't really pleased with him using me to get them for God knows what reason!

"Just don't turn the tables on me, Rohan," I said with some anger built in my voice though I was trying my hardest to stay calm. I don't want to fight again and ruin my own mood. Why does he have to follow me to just ruin my mood? Every single time?! He knows what I want and he knows he can't give that to me then why? Just why can't he stay away and let me protect myself from all that I'm feeling for him?

"I'm not..." He was trying to say something but I cut him in between as I finally lost my cool.

"OK, let me ask this straight then." I said with anger filled in my voice. Rohan looked at me with an expressionless face but something about it was telling me that he knows what am I going to ask.

I let out a deep sigh closing my eyes and asked the question bugging my mind from the moment I met Shanaya. "Do you still love her?"

The expressions on Rohan's face didn't change. So I was right when I said he was expecting this question. He just asked "What?" in low voice as a form of trying to buy some time or more precisely trying to find an excuse or turn the tables on me again. But I was determined this time. I wanted my answers. Enough of everything now.

"You heard me. Now, just answer," I said refusing to let go of the topic. Rohan looked away without answering my question. I waited for few more minutes in hope to get some reply from this guy but no, nothing!

"Rohan?" I called him again. Rohan looked back at me with an unreadable look on his face.

"Not anymore." He said looking at me. His brown orbs looking straight into mine. But this time I looked away as he refused to.

"Then why did you do that?" I asked in a low voice. My eyes fixed on the ground.

"I don't know," Rohan said as I heard him sigh before he continued. "I'm sorry."

I looked up at him again. I wasn't expecting a sorry from him but anyway, he has been unpredictable and full of surprises as long as I've known him. Rohan had his eyes fixed on me as many emotions flashed in those eyes of his.

"That's fine," I said nodding my head as I continued further trying to ease up the mood. "They bought it anyway. We were good I guess." I gave him a weak smile at the end, not finding the energy to be cheerful.

"Yes definitely." Rohan smiled a little but the smile disappeared as quickly. "But I didn't say sorry for that."

"Then?" I asked in a confused, cocking my eyebrows together.

"Hmm... For everything. For all those days when I hurt you." Rohan said coming closer to me. He stopped right in front of me keeping a safe distance. I stayed glued to my position. I don't know how to reply to that. Even though it is true that he had hurt me many times but I don't think it's his fault. Most of the time, it was just me and my thoughts that were the main cause for my pain. He wasn't aware of the of anything going in my head like how I was clueless about his thoughts. It wasn't fair to put all the blame on him. Besides, I hated to see him like this, vulnerable and broken.

"Rohan..." I wanted to stop him but he beat me to it as he continued.

"I didn't mean to, Arohi. Trust me. It just happened. You are one person in my life who is most close to me. That's why you should trust me when I say that I will never hurt you intentionally. But it happens anyway because I'm a big jerk, a coward who freaks out when life slaps me with reality. Who couldn't face his own problems and likes to run away from them by taking it out on people." Rohan stopped in between and closed his eyes for a brief moment letting out a sigh again. I stayed quiet, unable to utter a word. Some moments passed in silence before Rohan decided to break it.

"As for Ahana, she is my friend. Just a friend. She is someone I own my whole life to. And even if I try my hardest I can't make up for the loss she is suffering because of me. I need to be with her, to help her in every way I can, to protect her. That's when I can at least live my life without regrets and cover up for my sins." He finished looking at me but I could tell that his mind was not here. He seemed to be lost far away, remembering something. His face conveyed the pain he was going through. And I stood there gazing at him not being able to help.

I knew at that very moment that I could trust him. There is much much more to him that I could think of. I need to know the full story before going to any conclusion. The guilt surfaced me for taking him in the wrong way. I was wrong when I thought he was emotionless, when I thought he didn't care, when I blamed him for not sharing his past. All this while, he was trying his best to show his care and emotions through the way he knew. He was trying his best yet I didn't even notice his efforts. How could I not see that he was the one who always came to me whenever I played the ignore game. Be it the day when he showed up at my door or when he came searching for me on the terrace. He had always left his ego aside for me. Like now, he was apologizing for something that's not at all his fault. How could I possibly avoid all these facts and focus on his negatives?

Maybe because I wanted reasons to dislike him and stay away from him...

"Please trust me, Arohi. Don't ignore or stay mad at me. Not you out of all people. Just say whatever you feel... I still don't know why but it really hurts. I promise I'll tell you everything. Every other thing in my life. Just give me some time. Some more time. Please. I don't think I'm still ready to do that just now." I could tell how tough it was for him to open up and he did that just because he didn't want me to stay mad at him...?

"Why are you doing this?" I asked calmly, being unsure. Why is he explaining things to me? Do I really matter anything to him? Or is he just saying that because he thinks of me as a friend?

"Because I don't want to lose you. I need you around me, Arohi. I don't know why. But I just..." Rohan stopped abruptly. What he said brought back the butterfly feeling in my stomach. He continued after few moments. "Whoever came in my life has left me. All of my friends, my parents. They hate me." His eyes dropped to the ground and I could feel his pain in his voice.

"Stop thinking that way, Rohan. You know it's not true. I don't know which friends you are talking about but all I know is Arjun, Jenny and Raghav love you and care for you more than you'll ever imagine." I said moving near to him so that there is a small distance left between us.

"I know. I know they do. But I'm not sure if I deserve any of them." Rohan said in a low voice looking down at his feet which came nearly like a whisper.

"Stop saying that... Just look at me." I said holding his hands in mine. He looked up at me. He was looking miserable. I felt my heart ache by the sight. But I didn't let it show on my face. If I have to talk to Rohan then I need to be strong enough. I successfully put on a brave, determined look and continued by looking at him directly in eyes.

"I could have lost all hope when Rahul left me but NO! I'm still here living my life. Stop pitying yourself, Rohan. You are much more than that. Just appreciate what you have right now instead of regretting things and staying in the past. Staying there won't help you, Rohan. It will only ruin you and your present. Just try to live the present. You can make up for your mistakes by living your life to the fullest in the way you wanted it to be. You are never too late to start. Try to move on."

Rohan didn't say anything for some time and kept looking at me. I was just searching his eyes in an attempt to find anything, any emotion.

"Have you?" He asked in a low voice refusing to move his gaze away from me.

"What?"

"Have you moved on, Arohi?" He asked again. I was stunned hearing those words. But I wasn't going to back off this time. I refused to let go. I don't know what came in me, I didn't let myself go weak this time. I refused to move my gaze from his eyes like other times.

"I might not have moved on from Rahul but yes I surely don't feel sorry for my state," I said being confident about my answer and that's true to some extent too.

A small genuine smile formed on his lips. His eyes softened as he looked down at me. The look in his eyes made me blush automatically.

"What?" I asked moving my gaze to the ground. That's when I noticed the proximity between us. We were so close and I didn't realize that until now. But still, I didn't back off. I stayed glued to my ground. He didn't make an effort to move away too.

"You know... You are one of the strongest person in my life, Arohi. And I'm definitely not lying about that." Rohan said in a low serious voice. I looked up instinctively at him.

"Thanks for that. But Rohan, should I celebrate this day? I mean you are being extra nice to me today with all those praises?" I said trying to ease up the mood. Rohan for the first time in a while smiled from his heart at me. My heart melted at that sight, I don't think I've been this happy and relieved to see someone smiling. Nothing felt heavy now, I was at peace when he smiled. Isn't it funny how he is the cause for my turmoil and it's in him I find my peace? I was glad that I was at least able to make him smile. A smile involuntarily crept across my lips by seeing him smile like that.

"But seriously Rohan. Just try... Please. And just so you know, I am and I'll always be by your side when you need me. You just have to let people in. Let us help you. We want to be there for you. I want to be there for you. Will you trust me?"

His smile faded a little. "I've always trusted you, Arohi." He said in a serious tone with a small smile still on his face. I didn't know how to respond to that, I was happy would be an understatement. There was no doubt in my head this time, just the way he said it and his smile told everything for itself. I just felt that it's going to be different this time.

"So, will you forgive me?" He asked again raising his eyebrow a little. I let out a laugh at that. Rohan's smile widened too.

"I never was mad at you for me to forgive you, Rohan. And if you really are feeling sorry then just..."

"I know. I will. Trust me. I will try my best." Rohan said as his eyes did a silent promise to me.

"By the way, I forgot to tell you that you are looking extra gorgeous today!" Rohan said with his famous smirk finding its way back to his lips as he slid his hands behind the back of my waist and pulled me little closer towards him. My hands voluntarily went on his shoulders.

"What is with you today Mr. Nanda?" I asked letting out a small laugh at the sudden change in his mood. I was trying hard to hide my blush as he was standing close to me, looking down at me.

"Nothing. Just..." Rohan said shrugging his shoulders as his smirk slightly disappeared. He didn't let go of me as his one arm was still placed at the back of my waist.

"You are going back?" I finally asked the question I was hiding behind the back of my mind for a few days now.

"I guess." He answered in a low voice not quite meeting my gaze.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Well, maybe because you were on a mission 'Don't talk with Rohan Nanda.'" He said in a casual tone giving me known look.

"Whatever." I rolled my eyes at him.

"I don't know when yet but I'll be going pretty soon," Rohan said again getting a bit serious. I wanted to ask few more questions but stayed quiet as I don't wanna start the same thing again.

"I? Well, let me remind you, we still have an album to complete and I'm gonna follow you all the way to London. Alright?" I said in an attempt to change the mood.

"Yes, ma'am," Rohan said letting out a small laugh but his expressions changed again to serious as he continued further. "But you didn't tell me you are possessive over me and don't even want to share me with anyone let alone Ahana."

"What?" I asked in a whispered voice looking down at the space between us, there was hardly any space left.

"You were jealous of Shanaya too." He said raising his eyebrow at me.

"I wasn't..." I stuck in between the words as I didn't know how to complete it. He already has read me so there is no point in denying the fact. But does that mean he is aware of my confused feeling for him too? Well, there is a possibility now.

"You don't have to," Rohan said in a low voice looking down at me and I was looking down at proximity in which we were standing.

"Arohi...?" He called, his voice so tender, as concerned filled in them.

I didn't say anything again. I couldn't utter a word. I don't have anything to say at all. I looked up at him. Concern was clearly visible in his eyes. His eyes bore into mine. And the whole thing was making me weak. So weak. I was already lost in him

"Arohi, what is it?" He asked again. I looked away, breaking the eye contact and tried to free myself from his grip. But he refused to let go of his hold on me.

"Rohan, please, let me go," I said not looking at him.

"Nope. Not again," He said as he pulled me more close to him. The closeness we shared was making me weak and I knew if I stayed I will lose all my senses.

"Rohan, please..." My voice was low this time, pleading him to let me go. I looked up at him to find him already staring at me.

Our eyes locked and I felt myself drowning in his brown orbs. His eyes were piercing through my soul taking away my sanity. We both were two broken souls lost in the ruins of our lives. And in this moment, we found each other, more real than ever before. I could feel his pain, his insecurities, his nightmares. I could feel him as he unveiled all those emotions he was hiding behind his mask. I knew he was reading me and even though I let him to. I didn't want to hide anymore. I found some newborn courage in me and so did he. We were both coming clean.

He took his eyes away from mine and looked down at my lips. He then looked me in the eye asking for permission. I found my heart beat rising as adrenaline rushed through my blood. I moved closer to him than ever before as his grip around my waist tightened. He took his other hand to my cheek, brushing it lightly and moved further to my neck as he held it tenderly. His fingers tickled my skin and I got goosebumps. He slowly leaned in as I closed my eyes anticipating the touch of his lips on mine.

And the wait was over when his lips lightly brushed against mine. Blood rushed to my face and I felt weak. I opened my eyes when he moved away to meet his brown orbs staring at me with admiration.

I opened my mouth to say something when my words got stolen by Rohan as the next thing I felt was his lips hard against mine. All my senses exploded when he kissed me. All I felt was him and the feel of his lips against mine. My hand found it's way to his hair while the other rested on his chest feeling his heart beat rapidly against his chest.

He was passionate and dominating. In that moment, everything seemed so little, all the problems, all the restrictions, all the insecurities, and all the fears, nothing mattered at all except for him. Maybe this was the only moment I lived, nothing bothered me, not my past, not my future. For the first time in years, I was at absolute peace.

He deepened the kiss crushing me into him pouring all his emotions into the kiss, showing every bit of his feelings through it. I kissed him back with the same intensity showing him I wanted this as much as he did. We both felt the need of each other in our ruins.

We pulled apart getting breathless. Gasping for air. His grip around me loosened as I let go the grip on his hair. I was flustered blushing in crimson red. Rohan had his one hand on my cheek stroking it lightly as he said, "You are all red."

He wore the sweetest smile for me and I couldn't help but smile back at him. He tucked the hair that fell on the side of my face behind my ear. I just kept admiring this new side of Rohan, the soft side, the romantic side. He leaned in again placing a soft kiss on my forehead and pulled me into his arms again, hugging me. I closed my eyes against his chest. I felt at home, I felt protected.

Just when"Rahul..." A voice inside my head whispered and as if I was broken from a spell, I realized what I just did. The reality hit me hard.

What did I do?? This can't be! I can't let this happen.

I felt my eyes tear up feeling awful. Memories of Rahul flooded my mind and I felt like I was cheating on Rahul. I felt guilty and ashamed of myself. How could I do this? How can I let anyone close to me??

I broke the hug, pushing him and moved away from Rohan making a safe distance between us. He looked at me with a confused expression after seeing the look on my face.

"Arohi... What happened?" He asked moving closer to me. I moved back wanting distance between us.

"It's wrong..." I said looking at him with my vision blurred due to the tears.

"What?" This time he looked concerned.

"This... We shouldn't have..." I said as my voice trembled. A tear rolled down my cheek.

"Arohi..." Rohan tried to say something as he moved closer to me but I cut him in between.

"NO!!!" I said with my voice little louder and moved back distancing myself from him more. He stopped in his track and looked at me with concerned filled eyes. I felt my heart heavy with all kinds of thoughts weighing me down. I cried because I was helpless and I was hurting him in the process. I looked at him one last time, taking in everything about him before turning around and finally walking away from him and his life forever.

We can never happen...

And with that I left him there all alone, probably hurting him much more than he ever did.

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The way you feel when you kiss him
For the first time.
Like fire within your bones.
Like your soul has returned to the water.
Like every part of you that came from the dead star
Is alive again.

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OK! So that was it. What do you think about this one? We were surely excited to share this with you all for the obvious reason. Haha..

So we have 3 things to celebrate.

First one. THEY KISSED FINALLYYYY!!!! OMGGGG YAAAAS!!! Even though it didn't ended on good note. *sigh*
What do you guys think about it? We would love to know your thoughts. ☺️😁😍❤️

Then another thing. YESSSSS We completed 6.5K views. YAAAAS!!!! You guys are AMAZing. Love you all so much and thank you so so so much..!!!! 🎉🎊✨

And one last thing to celebrate was VarShra were together. 😍😭 They came together for Diwali bash in single car. Like shsjdkdgfcrdwegqg. I still can't believe that it actually happened. And then selfie with Preity. Sooo fucking happy to see them like this again. They truly are GOALS big time. 😍❤️💖🤧

So that was it for now. Keep VOTING and Commenting and Reading until we meet next time. 💕😊

AroHan will be back with another chapter (Don't know exactly when but will try to update soonest and make sure that it won't take this longer.). 😁

Till then, Bye. 🙋‍♀️

Love, Kritika and Ammu. ❤️