.

Next day.

Gauri slowly stirred awake, her eyelids fluttering open as the first rays of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, warm glow across the room. For a moment, she felt disoriented, not quite remembering where she was. But then her gaze traveled across the room, and reality hit her. Omkara's room. Their room.

The thought sent a small shiver down her spine. She shifted slightly in bed, careful not to make a sound. Her eyes searched the room for him, and she found him standing near the mirror, seemingly lost in thought.

Omkara stood with his back to her, shirtless, only in his formal pants, his long hair loose and falling around his shoulders. He was inspecting something in the mirror, maybe lost in his own world of thoughts. The muscles of his back and arms moved slightly with each breath, the morning light casting delicate shadows along his form. Gauri felt her cheeks warm, her gaze lingering a little longer than she’d ever dare if he was looking.

She told herself to look away, but her gaze remained fixed on him, tracing the way his fingers ran through his hair, the casual grace with which he stood. A warmth spread in her chest—a strange, unfamiliar feeling that left her heart beating just a little faster.

As if sensing her gaze, Omkara turned slowly, catching her staring. A flash of surprise crossed his face before it softened, a subtle smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
He can see that she is checking him out.

"Good morning," he said, his voice low, carrying a gentleness she wasn't used to.

Flustered, Gauri quickly sat up, pulling the blanket around her shoulders as though it could shield her from the sudden intensity of his gaze. "G-Good morning," she replied, her voice barely a whisper.

Omkara took a step closer, and then another, until he was standing at the edge of the bed, looking down at her. There was something different in his eyes, something she couldn’t quite name, but it made her pulse quicken. His hand lifted slightly, as if he was about to reach for her, but he hesitated, letting it fall to his side.

"Did you sleep well?" he asked, his voice softer now.

Gauri nodded, biting her lip to keep her gaze from drifting down his chest again. "Yes... I did."

There was a pause, a moment stretching between them, filled with unspoken words. She could feel the warmth of him standing so close, the faint scent of his cologne lingering in the air, earthy and familiar. It was strange, how comforting it felt.

Omkara's eyes never left hers, and she felt something stir within her—a courage, perhaps, that she didn’t know she had.

"Omkara ji..." She hesitated, her voice catching in her throat. "I… I didn’t expect you to be awake so early."

A faint chuckle escaped him, low and warm. "Habit, I suppose. Old routines die hard.I get up early."

The silence returned, but it was different now. It was filled with something tender, almost fragile. He looked down at her with an intensity that sent a flutter through her chest, and for a moment, she thought he might say something, reveal something that they both kept hidden. But instead, he just smiled, a little softer this time.

She actually thought that is he not feeling shy by standing shirtless in front of her? It is really hard for her to control her heart beat and eyes to stay away from him.

While he is enjoying it. He had already made up his mind to make her fall in love with him. So if this coincidence helping him to get close to her, they why not.

"Umm,.... Your.... Your shirt?"

Finally she said not able to bear this side of him.

Ommkara smile.

"Would you like some tea?"

he asked, breaking the tension with a hint of awkwardness that somehow felt comforting. He clearly avoided her question about the shirt.

Gauri's lips parted in a surprised smile, and she nodded. "Yes... tea would be nice."

He lingered a moment longer, as though he, too, was reluctant to break the delicate moment between them. Finally, he turned, heading toward the door, but paused just before he stepped out.

Without looking back, he said,

"Gauri… I’m glad you’re here."

And with that, he disappeared into the hallway after wearing his shirt, leaving her heart racing and her mind spinning, wondering what this new chapter in their lives might bring.

***********************

The morning sun cast a soft glow over the Oberoi mansion as Omkara and Gauri sat down at the breakfast table. The air was thick with unspoken tension, every glance and gesture carefully measured in the presence of Omkara’s family. Across the table sat his father Tej and mother Janhvi, both of whom wore expressions that revealed their inner turmoil, while Omkara’s grandmother, Kalyani Devi, maintained a dignified poise that seemed unfazed by the undercurrents around her.

Gauri kept her eyes lowered, her fingers nervously tracing patterns on the corner of her napkin. She had endured whispered judgments and stares from those who questioned her accidental marriage to Omkara, and the weight of that scrutiny made her feel as though every move was under a microscope. The uncertainty hung in the air, thick enough for everyone at the table to feel.

Breaking the silence, Kalyani Devi, affectionately known as Dadi, glanced around the table and spoke in a calm yet assertive tone.

“I think it’s time we have a reception for Omkara and Gauri,”

she said, her words lingering in the air, weighted with significance.

“It will put an end to the rumors and bring some peace to this household.”

The suggestion took both Tej and Janhvi by surprise. Tej frowned, his voice uncertain as he spoke.

“Mom, is that really necessary? You know the circumstances…”

Janhvi, who had been staring at her cup of tea, looked up and added softly,

“Everyone knows how... unexpected this marriage was.”

But Dadi was unwavering. “Precisely why we must do it,”

she replied firmly.

“Let them see that we stand behind Gauri and Omkara. It’s the best way to silence those who have no business in our matters.”

Omkara’s gaze shifted to Gauri, who looked as though she wished to disappear. Her hands trembled slightly, and her discomfort was obvious, but she remained silent. It was a lot to process, and the prospect of facing a crowd only deepened the knot in her stomach. She wondered if she would ever truly belong here.

Omkara, watching her intently, felt a pang of protectiveness mixed with his own doubts. Did she still harbor feelings for Akshat, his brother? The thought gnawed at him, filling him with a jealousy he barely understood. Yet he couldn’t deny the pull he felt toward her—the desire to be the one she looked to for comfort, the one she could trust.

In that moment, he reached across the table and, as if by instinct, gently covered her hand with his own. Gauri’s breath hitched as she looked up, meeting his intense gaze for the second time that morning. His hand was warm, grounding her in a way she hadn’t expected.

“You’re not alone in this,” he murmured softly, his voice barely audible but laced with determination. “We’ll handle it together.”

His words sent a shiver down her spine, a mixture of relief and confusion filling her. She wanted to believe him, to trust that he meant what he said. Despite her apprehensions, a spark of something deeper flickered in her heart. She gave a tentative nod, her lips parting in the faintest of smiles.

Their silent exchange was interrupted by Dadi’s approving smile as she took in the scene before her. “Then it’s settled,” she declared with finality, a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. “The Oberois will host a grand reception, and let the world see that Gauri is as much a part of this family as anyone.”

As the table discussion resumed, Gauri’s fingers remained intertwined with Omkara’s for a few moments longer than necessary, both unwilling to let go just yet. A quiet promise had been made, and while the journey ahead was uncertain, there was a sliver line of hope—a small flame that flickered between them, waiting to be nurtured.

************************

The preparation started. Ommkara called his in laws but they said they can't come as they just reached their home town and there are a lot of things they have to handle. Gauri is a little said but understand their situation.

Dadi called Balraj and sharmila for the reception and talk with Akhsat. No matter what the situation of their relationship, but nobody can Deny dadi's order so they agreed to come. Here Dadi called them because she doesn't want to see her family apart. And thought to patch up between Akshat and Omkara and make Akshat understand about the situation.

Gauri is really nervous but she has build a trust on Ommkara that he will handle everything.

**************************

The soft glow of evening light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm hue across the room as Gauri sat before the mirror, struggling with her jewelry. The faint sound of laughter and conversation from Omkara’s family echoed down the hallway, but she hardly noticed; her focus was on the delicate necklace she couldn’t clasp around her neck.

She is already nervous for the party. Unsure what will happen. And it is making her hands slightly Trumble so she is finding difficulties in wearing the necklace.

Frustrated, Gauri sighed, tugging gently at the chain. Just then, she heard a gentle knock on the door. She turned, surprised to see Omkara standing in the doorway. His gaze softened as he noticed her struggle.

He is all ready in a black 3 peice suit. His shoulder length hair is tied in half ponytail which suits him well. His trimmed Beard adding more charm to his handsome face. Gauri lost for few seconds in his beauty.

“Let me help,” he offered, stepping closer without waiting for her response.

Gauri’s heart fluttered as Omkara’s fingers brushed against her skin. His touch was warm, yet careful, and she could feel her pulse quickening under his fingers. She watched him through the mirror, his expression unreadable as he concentrated on securing the necklace. A soft, almost reverent smile curved on his lips as he finished, and for a moment, neither of them moved, caught in the silence and the intimacy of the moment.

Omkara’s gaze lifted, meeting hers in the mirror. Their eyes locked, and a thousand unsaid words passed between them.
He can see that she is looking breathtaking beautiful in that black saree. The diamond jewelry is complimenting her milky white skin. Her amber eyes are looking more attractive with the kajal on it.
He forget to beath for a second seeing the goddess of beauty in front of him.
But, he feel there is something missing on her.

Gauri could feel a mix of emotions swirling within her—hope, fear, and a vulnerability she rarely allowed herself to feel. She opened her mouth to say something but hesitated, unsure of what she even wanted to say.

Without breaking eye contact, Omkara reached for the sindoor. As he finds out what is missing to add more charm in her beauty. Her breath hitched as he gently brushed her hair back, exposing her forehead. Slowly, he brought the red powder to her hairline, his movements almost reverent. As the sindoor touched her skin, she felt a surge of emotion—one she could barely understand. This simple, sacred gesture felt like a promise, yet she knew they both had doubts holding them back.
She still does not remember everything clearly about their marriage, but when he put that Sindoor on her hairline, she said like this is the first time he is doing this. And it makes her so emotional.

"You're… ready now," Omkara murmured, his voice low, almost as if he were speaking more to himself than to her. His fingers lingered just a moment longer, his touch gentle but full of something deeper.

She couldn’t look away from him. Part of her wanted to reach out, to say something to ease the doubts she knew he carried about their marriage. She wanted to tell him that maybe… just maybe, she could make him happy if he’d let her. But the words stayed trapped in her throat, replaced instead by a shy smile that spoke more than words ever could.

Omkara returned her smile, his own filled with that same restrained emotion. In that quiet, fleeting moment, they both understood each other more than words could convey. Though they were unsure of what lay ahead, this small moment gave them both hope—a hope they each held close to their hearts.

**************************

The party was in full swing, the grand hall filled with the buzz of conversation, clinking glasses, and flashing cameras. The Oberoi mansion was alive with guests, from prominent businessmen to media reporters. As Omkara and Gauri entered, heads turned, and the room seemed to pause for a moment. Together, they looked stunning, but the tension between them was undeniable. Gauri, feeling the weight of the whispers and curious stares, held onto Omkara’s arm, drawing strength from his presence.

“Mr. Oberoi, could we get a few words?” a reporter called, eagerly pushing forward with a microphone.

Omkara nodded politely, keeping Gauri close by his side. He leaned into the microphone, speaking calmly and with confidence. “Thank you all for joining us tonight. My wife, Gauri, and I are here to celebrate with family and friends. I understand there have been rumors, but I hope tonight brings clarity to any misunderstandings.”

As he spoke, Gauri noticed Akshat standing a few feet away, his expression dark, his eyes fixed on her with an intensity that made her uncomfortable. She glanced away, hoping he wouldn’t approach, but within moments, he was there, standing before them with a forced smile.

“Quite the show, bhai,” Akshat said, his voice low, barely concealing the resentment simmering beneath it. “I suppose I should congratulate you…both of you.”

Omkara kept his expression neutral, but his hand moved subtly to Gauri’s, giving her a reassuring squeeze. “Thank you, Akshat. I’m glad you could make it tonight.”

Akshat’s smile faltered, his tone turning sharper. “I wonder, Gauri, do you ever think about what this marriage has done to our family? Or did you and Omkara bhai enjoy sneaking around all along?” His gaze darkened as he leaned closer. “You know, there are people who still believe you two were planning this behind my back.”

Akhsat was frustrated from the thing that Gauri doesn't love him. And now seeing her with his elder brother makes him mad and angry on Gauri.

Gauri flinched, feeling the weight of his accusation, but before she could speak, Omkara stepped in, his voice calm but firm.

“Enough, Akshat,” he said, his voice carrying an authority that silenced the surrounding guests. “I understand you’re upset, but dragging Gauri through these accusations won’t change the past. This marriage wasn’t planned. You know that as well as anyone.”

Akshat clenched his fists, unwilling to let go. “So you’re saying she just happened to end up as your bride? That’s a convenient story, isn’t it?”

Omkara’s gaze hardened. “Our families went through enough, Akshat. This isn’t the time or place for your bitterness.”

The reporters were quick to notice the exchange, cameras flashing as they tried to capture every word. One of them seized the moment, directing a question at Omkara.

“Mr. Oberoi, there have been rumors that Gauri was seeing you before the wedding and that Akshat was simply a…complication. How do you respond to that?”

Omkara straightened, pulling Gauri a little closer to him. “Let me make one thing very clear,” he said, his voice calm but resolute. “Gauri is my wife, and I have the utmost respect for her. We may have faced unexpected circumstances, but our commitment to each other is not something to question. She didn’t deserve to be dragged through rumors, and neither do I.”

Gauri felt a surge of gratitude and admiration for him in that moment. The way he stood up for her, the dignity in his words—it was as if he were shielding her from all the judgment around them.

Akshat sneered, unable to hide his frustration. “Fine, bhai. Protect her all you want. But remember, some things don’t just disappear because you pretend they didn’t happen.”

Omkara’s gaze remained steady, unfazed. “If you can’t let go of the past, Akshat, that’s your burden to bear. But Gauri and I have moved forward. I suggest you do the same.”

The tension hung thick in the air as Akshat stared at them, his face a mixture of anger and regret. Finally, he turned and stormed off, leaving the party with a cloud of bitterness trailing behind him.
His parent also follow him after shooting drager to Gauri and Ommkara.
But Ommkara stands there like nothing happened.

Omkara turned back to Gauri, his expression softening. “Are you okay?” he asked quietly, his eyes searching hers.

Gauri nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. “Thank you, Omkara ji…for standing by me.”

He gave her a gentle smile, holding her hand to his in a quiet, comforting gesture. “Always.”

Then he turns to the reporters who were ready to post the masala news, the fight between the Oberoi brother, and the new bride who wants to get both the brothers.

"Enjoy the party please, and I like to hear good news in the morning time. If I hear anything negative about my family in the early morning time, you know my anger actually rises so high. I hope you all understand what I want to say."

He said in calming yet dangerous tone.
All the reporters feel frighten to his behaviour as they already know that before Omkara had shut down more than 8 news companies, because they had posted rubbish about the Oberoi family during the marriage scandal time.

They quickly deleted the videos and pictures they had taken and they were supposed to post tomorrow.

Gauri look at him.
As they stood together amidst the flashing lights and curious eyes, Gauri felt, perhaps for the first time, that she was truly safe with him. And in that moment, surrounded by strangers and whispers, she realized that this accidental marriage might hold more meaning than she’d ever imagined.

***************************

Gauri sat in her room, eyes red from crying, the weight of the evening pressing down on her. She felt trapped, hurt by Akshat’s accusations and haunted by the whispers from the guests. Family members had tried to comfort her, offering words of reassurance before leaving her alone, but nothing seemed to ease her turmoil.

Moments later, Omkara entered the room quietly, his presence calm and comforting. He approached her slowly, his eyes full of concern as he knelt beside her.

“Gauri…” he spoke softly, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. “Look at me.”

She looked up, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. He gave her a small, reassuring smile.

“Don’t let tonight’s words affect you,” he said firmly. “You know the truth. That’s all that matters.”

“But Omkara…people think so poorly of me,” she whispered, her voice wavering. “They think I betrayed Akshat…that I was somehow part of this mess.”

He shook his head, his gaze turning intense. “You have nothing to prove to anyone, Gauri. I’ll make sure no one ever questions you again. Trust me.”

A part of her wanted to believe him, to let herself lean on his strength, but the fear was still there, lingering. Sensing her hesitation, Omkara moved closer, brushing a stray tear from her cheek.

“You’re safe with me,” he said softly, his tone holding a possessive warmth. “As long as I’m here, no one will dare hurt you.”

The depth of his words made her feel a little lighter, as if some of the burden had lifted. Within a few minutes, her exhaustion took over, and she fell asleep, reassured by his presence.

Once he was certain she was resting, Omkara rose quietly and made his way to the balcony. The cool night air brushed against him as he pulled out his phone, dialing a number he knew by heart. After a few rings, a male voice answered on the other end.

“Is everything done as we planned?” Omkara asked, his voice low, controlled, and carrying a hint of menace.

“Yes, sir,” the man replied. “Everything went exactly as you instructed.”

“Good,” Omkara said, a trace of satisfaction in his tone. “You’ll make sure Neha’s family knows the truth, won’t you? That she left of her own free will?”

“Yes, sir. Neha agreed. She’ll tell her family it was her decision to leave.”

Omkara’s gaze darkened as he looked out into the night. “Perfect. And remember,” he said slowly, emphasizing each word, “Gauri is off-limits. Anyone who tries to hurt her—directly or indirectly—will answer to me. Understood?”

The man on the other end hesitated, sensing the threat in Omkara’s voice. “Yes, sir… I understand completely.”

Omkara paused, his tone turning dangerously soft. “And make sure Neha’s boyfriend remembers our arrangement. I paid him well to take her away and keep her hidden on our wedding day. I don’t want her causing any more issues.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll keep him in line.”

Omkara smirked slightly, a dark satisfaction flickering in his eyes. “Good. If he knows what’s best for him, he’ll follow through. The moment there’s any trouble, he’s on his own.”

As he ended the call, Omkara’s mind drifted back to Gauri, asleep inside. He knew his actions weren’t without risk, but he didn’t care. Gauri was his, bound to him through fate or accident—it didn’t matter. He would do whatever it took to protect her, even if that meant orchestrating plans in the shadows.

Omkara’s expression softened as he turned back to look through the doorway, where Gauri lay peacefully, unaware of the lengths he had gone to ensure her place by his side. In that moment, he vowed silently to himself: no one would ever come between them. Not Akshat, not Neha, not anyone.

And as the night deepened, Omkara stood guard, resolute and fiercely determined to protect what was now his.

*********************

I hope you like it. ❤️

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Micky❤️