As dawn's gentle light filtered through the curtains, Shikha slowly awoke. She found Mohit, wrapped in her embrace, his face nestled against her back and his arm resting protectively around her waist. The warmth of his presence was a soothing comfort, and she reveled in the sensation of his breath on her skin, sending delightful shivers down her spine. A smile graced her lips as she glanced out the window. The sun seemed to shine brighter today, and the breeze carried a refreshing coolness. There was a certain joy in the air, a mirror to the happiness she felt with Mohit so close, so real, within her reach.

Turning her gaze back to him, she saw him looking endearingly peaceful, his features soft and his expression tender. She shifted slightly, maneuvering herself to face him. Their faces were mere inches apart. She traced the contours of his face with loving eyes, her own eyes brimming with affection. Unable to resist, she leaned in and planted a gentle kiss on his lips. Mohit's eyes fluttered open in surprise, and their gazes locked. A flush of embarrassment colored Shikha's cheeks as she pulled away, realizing he was now fully awake. Mohit, however, wore a satisfied smile.

Before Shikha could react further, Mohit drew her back into his embrace. Their lips met again with an intensity that spoke of their longing. This kiss was their first—a moment of pure, passionate connection that spoke of the deep yearning they had for each other. The kiss was not wild or forceful, but tender and filled with simmering affection. Their hands roamed—Shikha's from Mohit's waist to his face, and Mohit's, one cupping her face and the other around her waist. The room echoed with their soft moans as Shikha's fingers tangled in Mohit's hair, pulling him closer.

The kiss grew more intense, yet remained gentle, a testament to their mutual desire and the love they shared. As they both struggled to catch their breath, their eyes locked once more. Shikha's lips and the surrounding area flushed a deep red, and Mohit's gaze softened with understanding and concern.

"Are you okay?" Mohit asked softly.

Shikha merely nodded in response. Just as he was about to lean in for another kiss, the doorbell rang. Mohit's expression shifted to one of disappointment, while Shikha offered a small smile. He reluctantly withdrew, and Shikha, blushing, hurried out of the room. She grabbed a tumbler from the kitchen and answered the door, greeted by the milk delivery person.

Returning to the kitchen, she placed the milk on the burner and set it to boil. Her heart fluttered with happiness from their first kiss, and she could still feel the warmth of his lips lingering on hers. With her fingers tracing her lips, she replayed every moment of their intimate encounter in her mind.

Minutes later, Shikha felt a strange sensation and a hint of discomfort in her belly. A realization dawned on her, and she quickly returned to the room. Finding Mohit absent, she discovered he was in the washroom. She went to the common washroom but emerged feeling disheartened. Returning to her room, she retrieved a sanitary napkin from the cupboard and went back to the washroom.

When Mohit emerged from the washroom, he found Shikha sitting on the bed. He noticed her subdued demeanor and greeted her with a warm smile, which she returned faintly. Concerned, he approached her.

"What's wrong? Are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.

"I'm fine," Shikha replied, trying to sound reassuring.

Mohit, not fully convinced, inched closer and said, "You don't look okay."

Shikha, trying to maintain composure, responded, "I'm fine, Mohit. I just need to get ready for the office."

"Well, we do need to go," Mohit said with a playful wink. "And we'll be coming back too."

Shikha understood his implication but felt compelled to share her discomfort with him. She gave a small smile, then went to the washroom to prepare for the day. After emerging, her stomach pain had worsened. She went to the kitchen, had two biscuits, and took a painkiller, her mind preoccupied with how to explain her condition to Mohit. Shy and self-conscious, she worried about disappointing him, knowing what he might expect.

When Mohit joined her at the dining table, he waited expectantly for breakfast. Shikha brought it to the table and sat beside him. Mohit noticed her subdued mood and reached for her hand.

"Shikha, look at me," he said gently.

She met his gaze and murmured, "Hmm?"

"What's going on? Tell me," Mohit urged.

"Nothing. I'm fine," Shikha insisted.

"I can't understand why you're lying to me," Mohit said, his concern evident. "Especially after what happened earlier."

Blushing, Shikha glanced at him with a mix of shyness and vulnerability. "It's not like that," she said softly.

Mohit, still worried, said, "You don't look okay. Look, Shikha, you can take your time. I'm not forcing you. I love you, and I know it's not easy."

Shikha hesitated before blurting out, "I need five days."

Mohit raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Five days? You're quite specific."

"Yes," Shikha confirmed with a hint of embarrassment.

Mohit chuckled. "Five days, huh? You're very precise."

Shikha nodded, her face flushed with embarrassment.

"Alright," Mohit said, still smiling. "But could you explain the reasoning behind needing five days?"

Shikha looked down, gathering her thoughts. "It's just... I'm not feeling well. It's common for me. I'll be fine in a few days."

Mohit's eyes widened with understanding. "Oh, I see now. It's that time of the month. You didn't have to go through this alone. I would have taken you to the doctor."

Shikha appreciated his understanding. "Yes, it's something I'm used to. I'll be okay soon."

Mohit's gaze softened. "So, that's why you need five days?"

Shikha nodded. "Yes."

Mohit looked at her with a mischievous glint. "And then?"

Shikha smiled and replied, "Let's just focus on breakfast. We're going to be late for the office."

Mohit resumed eating, his concern tempered by his playful nature. "By the way, are you in pain? I've heard it can be quite uncomfortable."

"Just a little," Shikha admitted. "I took a painkiller, and I'll be fine soon."

"I've heard that mood swings are also common during this time," Mohit said, his tone light. "No wonder you're a bit irritable."

Shikha rolled her eyes and playfully nudged him with a spoon. "Stop teasing me."

Mohit laughed heartily. "A spoon attack today. Yesterday it was a pillow. I wonder what's next."

Shikha glared at him, though a smile tugged at her lips. She tried to walk away, but Mohit pulled her back onto his lap, holding her close. He kissed her shoulder and murmured, "I'm sorry if I hurt you with my jokes. I really do love you."

Shikha melted into his embrace. "It's okay. I'm sorry for breaking that expensive phone. I've been so childish."

Mohit's lips brushed hers in a tender kiss. "Don't worry about it. I'll get you a new phone. You're always so sweet, and I'll always take care of you."

Shikha hugged him tightly, tears spilling from her eyes. "I'm sorry for everything. You've been so caring, and I haven't always been the best."

Mohit soothed her gently. "Shh, don't cry. I love you, and you're my everything. Let's not dwell on the past. We have a day ahead of us."

With a gentle push, Mohit encouraged her to get up. Together, they left for the office, ready to face the day.

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