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Anirudh's POV

"Bhaiyaaaa! Look at that tree. Look up there na, please", I chimed excitedly to him while shaking him by his shoulders with eyes still fixed at the sight on the tree, who was busy devouring over his favourite butterscotch flavoured ice-cream.

" Ohooo Chote! Have some patience yaar. My ice-cream would have been tasting the delicious soil by now if I wouldn't have been careful enough", he complained at my ignorance and impatience. I clicked my tongue and replied sheepishly," Oops! I didn't see it. Chuck it, have a look, fast" in a super excited tone.

"Thamba Balak!", he chuckled at my reactions and continued," Show me the thing for which you're being so excited". I immediately replied not wasting a single moment," Look up, there! The nest on that tree. See how cutely the two birds are eating from their mother's beak" while pointing towards the said sight. " Aww, they're so cute", Bhaiya exclaimed totally forgetting about his ice-cream while watching the cute family. After a few seconds, we saw the mother bird flying away probably in food pursuit leaving behind two chicks. But the scene which unfolded after her departure melted our heart and we both couldn't help but go 'Aww' simultaneously.

As we were witnessing, one of the chicks, which looked slightly bigger in size with newly grown feathers than the other who's yet to grow feather on its body, wrapped its little bony wings around the little chick. It looked as if the bigger chick wrapped its tiny developing wings around the little one to protect him from any foreign invasion which might happen in their mother's absence. The bigger one must have hatched out a few days before the little one which has hatched today only. The protectiveness of the elder one warmed our heart, it felt so awesome.

I heard Bhaiya mutter," God bless them and their adorable bond" in an awed tone breaking my thoughts. I turned towards him to see him mirroring the same expression of mine, surprised and gleeful.

And before I could even realise, I spoke my mind, " The bigger chick reminded me of you Bhaiya" to which he immediately turned towards me in amusement. He asked," Really Chote?" with a cocky smile playing on his lips. I replied with my 100-watt smile," Yeah, I'm speaking with full honesty. I love you, Bhaiya!" and immediately embraced him. He reciprocated and chuckled," Chote, don't be so sentimental. You're having a mood swing like Priya or what?" while patting my back. I admonished him fully aware of his teasing self," Shut up and just hug me, Captain Ved Srivastava", to which he laughed saying," Okay my Pseudocommander aka Chote".

After a minute or so, I asked," You will always remain with me. Right, Bhaiya?" while pulling away. Bhaiya laughed while replying," Of course Chote".

I don't know why but I again asked," Promise me?"

"Ohooo Chote! Promise. Why are you being like that all of a sudden? For your information, we aren't in kindergarten anymore. We are freaking adults, young man", He enquired in a teasing tone. I glared at him as I was in a no-nonsense mood.

"Acha Baba, I PROMISE THAT WE WILL REMAIN LIKE THIS, ALWAYS", He caved in.

" Always?", I then asked forwarding my palms out. Knowing very well that I could use this promise later in case of any adversities. I don't trust HER.

" ALWAYS", he chirped in and grabbed my forwarded hand, clutching it tightly while laughing loudly at my silliness. Soon, I joined him in his laughter spree.

A lone tear escaped from my orbs when I closed my eyes in a hope that one of the special moment spent with Bhaiya, that was playing like a film in front of my eyes, will stop assaulting my mind. But those were memories and eyes shut or opened, it doesn't matter. They're gonna haunt me forever from now on.

It was an anecdote from the ocean full of memories shared by us brothers, which assaulted my mind because of the same place I'm standing now and we were standing back then. Our secret hideout: The Sri Bros Hideout.

A secret small cliff outside the chaotic city of Delhi, far from the human settlement still near it. Adjacent to the nearby moderately dense forest area of South Delhi and is yet to be discovered by others. The cliff gives a clear view of some parts of the magnificent capital city of the country, its busy life. Along with the spectacular view the place has been a perfect abode for green healthy beings of every category providing the much-needed shade and coolness respite from the hot blazing sun in the infamous afternoon heat of Delhi. Being at a height, the breeze when goes pass by the body it leaves a certain kind of ataraxia and relaxing feeling taking away all the worries. This place has remained unblemished by humans other than us, hence the deadly arms of the demon, fondly named as 'Pollution', which has been consuming the whole city in its clutches have not reached here yet. It's the same place that housed that tree that had those lovely chicks duo all those years back when I was only 21 and Bhaiya was 23.

We love this place, it is... umm it was OUR special hideout away from Bhaiya's military life and my travelling filled event managing life. All in all, it was our place away from the whole ruckus called life, just known to us. Only Us!

Bhaiya promised me at this very place that we will remain together always, right here. But now he left me. He left me all by myself.

How I'm supposed to be here without him? How I'm gonna sail through all this without him and his reassuring smile? Whether I will be able to take care of our parents without him? Who will love, guide, chide and protect me? Who will be there for all of us, when needed? Who will make everyone happy? who will take us out of this horrible sorrowful phase? Who will be the bearer of the peace agreement between me and her? Who will be there with his Ved's Priya? How will I survive without him?

Bhaiya we were supposed to be together always. You being the older chick and me being the little one. Now how I'm gonna face all the things coming my way without my guardian angel, YOU?

"I miss you Bhaiya, I really do. And it's hurting right here at this damned muscle caged in the ribcage called heart, whenever anyone tells me that now I have to step up to your place. That wherever I go; I see you and feel your presence. It feels you're right here still not with us. I don't want your place Bhaiya, not even on the dining table to Papa's left. Please comeback na, please!"

I broke down after pouring down my heart out for the first time in two days to the solitude which has Bhaiya'a essence still intact.

I came here in the late afternoon when it became too much for me to even breath in the Srivastava mansion which is in the pitiful pool of woebegone after the demise of Bhaiya with Maa-Papa's silent tears and her being slipping in and out of consciousness. The last two days have been hard for all of us. The house which was full of merry and joyful laughter and wedding preps two days ago, has now got drowned in a dreadful silence and has started haunting me with memories. I know I didn't have anything in my power to stop the occurrence but still, it feels like I have failed as a brother.

I am proud of my brave martyr Captain Ved Srivastava, my brother who fought the enemies and their horrendous cowardly attack till his last breath. In fact, we all are proud of him, but this heart bleeds when I realise that a void has been created with his departure that can't be filled ever.

So, to escape from this pain and my own home, I stepped out in a hope that there might be a place that will give me peace and not the strong memory waves hitting me hard. But with time, I realised that it was impossible as he resides in me, in my heart. Because he is my brother, my guardian angel and my idol. After hours of an aimless car-ride, I found myself here only to feel the same anguish embracing me, making me cave into the forlornness created due to Bhaiya's absence.

Suddenly my phone went off breaking my reverie. I pulled it out of my pants only to see that Lalu Kaka is calling. I hurriedly answered it hoping that no more ugly news will be heard from the wretched device. Yes, I have now come to dread any phone call related to my family after that fateful day. I queried," Yes, Kaka. Everything alright?" in a flat tone after composing myself. To which he responded," Hmm Chote Baba, everything is alright I rang you to inform Sir asked about you a while ago and I told him that you were out for some urgent work, as said by you. But he told me to summon you back as he needs to have something important to talk with you which is really urgent", in his usual informative and kind tone. Papa has summoned me through Kaka, why? He could have called me up himself. Also, he summoned me, after knowing that I'm out in urgency, and he has something important to talk to me. Strange! He never does that.

I again inquired,' Do you have any idea, Kaka, about what he wants to discuss?" knowing very well that Kaka always knows some info if not all of them. He instantly informed,' No Baba. After you left, Sir has been in the study all alone and had instructed me to not let anyone enter, not even Madam. Also not to disturb him. He even did his lunch there that too very late. I tried to gauge his expression while serving him but he had his infamous poker face on. I don't have any idea about what he wants to discuss, Chote Baba".

I sighed heavily after giving my confirmation of return and ended the call. Papa dining his poke face isn't something common. He does that only outside the doorstep of the mansion. Is he up to something?

Maybe or may not be. It might be something related to the consultancy works, my mind told me. While my heart indicated a sudden change of course in my life. Urghhh... I'm thinking too much. I should get going.

Soon, I was on my way back home witnessing the sun dying down the horizon. It will take me nearly 40 minutes to reach, so I indulged myself in watching the setting sun while driving. The hot radiant round red-yellow ball, which has the capacity to burn anything, has mellowed down its intensity while going on its final journey of the day.

Suddenly, the serene face void of that trademark charming smile of Bhaiya wrapped in tricolour crossed my mind. Like the setting sun, Bhaiya's intensity of being full of life had died down when I had forced myself to take a final glance at him, just before lighting his pyre with Papa and biding him goodbye for the last time. Wishing for his peaceful final journey with a heavy heart. His pyre had blazed that day just like the hot sun of the afternoon as the God of Fire feasted upon the martyred body to gave the way for the departed soul to attain salvation.

Even though the dying sun has this similarity with him but it will be again rising tomorrow and bless the world with its presence. But there's me and my family, who will not be able to see our piece of heart again as he is no more.

This similarity between the sun and him is enough to pull me back into the abode of sorrow but I resisted this time. At this thought, I fought back the sob rising my throat. I can't let myself drown in the miseries like this. Bhaiya won't like it. He must be grumbling up there, watching us mourning at his sacrifice. For he always advised us before that if anyhow he sacrifices his life for our motherland, then we shouldn't be mourning for me more than 2 days. And we need to abide by this. Also, he must be cursing me for being such a child at the age of 28.

Okay, Bhaiya I won't cry anymore. I'll stand by our family and support them in every way. For the fact that: 'You will be always in our hearts, our souls, always with me and our family".

I miss you Bhaiya and I love you. I promise. I'll do everything you would have wanted me to do for the wellbeing of everyone. I'll step up but will never try to take your place. You'll remain within us forever. I promise.

End of POV

The younger and now the only son of the Srivastava's entered the mansion only to hear horrible agonised screams of "No! I haven't" coming from the upper floor. His legs sprinted on their own towards the room which is the abode of the foster daughter and the once soon-to-be new bride of the elder son of the Srivastava household but after fate's cruel turn her course of life has changed.

It was none other than Deekshya's unnerving bawlings which for the first time has shaken even her nemesis- Anirudh, her unrequited love. Maybe he has developed sympathy for that unfortunate fiance of his brother who's been slipping in and out of consciousness after the sudden disclosure of the damned news which has left everyone heartbroken. And also she has been bearing the cruel brunt of the society which is holding this girl's presence in his brother's life as the reason for his demise. He never knew that this day will come in his life when he will get worried about her. Well, the credits go to the murmurings and stares directed towards her at the funeral and the prayer meet, both. It made him feel sick when he heard those baseless accusations hurled at her which not only demeaned his brave brother's sacrifice but also mirrored the nonsensical conservative mindset of this society. For heaven's sake, she has been living all these years with the Srivastava clan and there had never been a single incident that could be deemed as an effect of the bad presence of hers. He had then questioned himself: In which era, is this frivolous society living in? In the 1800s? Is this the same society that boasts upon the fact that it had been successful in reaching Mars and setting foot on Moon?

Then in a moment of heat, he went to those gossips mongers to give them a piece of mind but the fact that in childhood he has taken pleasure in hearing those allegations, stopped him. Right then, he felt disgusted by himself for being such a jealous brat in his teens who enjoyed at the expense of her sufferings.

But now he isn't that teenaged immature brat, he is a grown-up with a stable mind and compassionate heart. And he has come a long way in these mere two days span by developing sympathy for her wretched state out of pity in multitude and concern for his parents who loved her immensely and her this state pains a lot to them. He still feels the animosity reasons somewhat known and somewhat unknown.

While sprinting off the spiral stairs, he watched his parents speeding towards her room as well and that somewhat gave him relief as their presence will do the required than his presence with her. At this, hie slowed down his pace but another heart-shattering scream resonated in the mansion, loud and clear. And he couldn't help but fasten his legs. It reminded him about all those screams of her when she first entered the family and when they both were in their early teens. When she took away all the attention of his parents and his brother to herself and became the centre of his despise. Her sufferings made him happy back then and now he regretted feeling that.

And before his regret could again take a hold of him, he reached the threshold of the room which was once called the bride's room and is now nothing but a wretched soul's abode which is failing now to provide comfort to her. He saw his mother securing the distressed heart-sick soul in her motherly safe embrace which has the power to calm down the evilest demons. And the sight of his mother whispering sweet nothings and trying to bring the soul back from the after-effects of a bad dream, made him relax.

To be honest, the sight warmed his heart and not to forget for the very first time. Before the unfortunate tragedy, he always turned blind towards her closeness with his dear-ones that is much better than him out of envy but now he relaxed at the sight, much to his surprise. He wondered what's happening to him?

A warm palm suddenly placed at his shoulders pulled him out of his trance. He turned to his left to see it was his father's. And the moment he looked up at his face he was left aghast as he witnessed a pool of unshed tears in the now gloom eyes of his father. No, the man standing in front of him can't be the owner of one of the leading law firms of the country, the sharp and well-versed legal luminary of the country. Hell, it can't be the Dhananjay Srivastava. He is only a father standing in front of him, he is Deekshya's father.

His father spoke after composing himself," I think everything is under control here. Your mother will do the necessary. We should get going. Besides, I need to discuss something with you. Come down to the study", in a straight voice. Not knowing what to make out of that unusual formal voice of his father, he simply nodded and walked behind him. But not before taking a glimpse of the messed up girl, who is now crying out with heart-wrenching sobs which can melt even a rock. While walking away, he heard his father's lips escape a sob and saw his body tremble, & it didn't surprise him. It was because of the state of his beloved daughter. And that left the Youngman heart-sick when he realised he can't take away the grief as he is powerless.

He wondered if there will be a chance to set everything right then he will surely take it. He is willing to do anything to take away the sorrow settled in his family. But is there any chance?

Little did he knew that he's going get such a chance...

The father-son duo walked into the study filled with legal documents, commentaries, case files, AIRs(All India Reporters), books etc. While the elder Srivastava took his place in his usual plush cushioned grand chair placed across the room, the other younger Srivastava got himself seated in front of him with a classic teak-wood table separating them. For nearly five minutes, no words were exchanged. The silence prevailing its reign majestically but it was short-lived.

Papa Srivastava cleared his throat before speaking," Ahem! Where were you all this while?" by placing his elbows on the table and his well-sculpted face against the conjoined palms. Anirudh's brows got knitted together in response while he purred," I was out for some urgent work, Papa. I have already informed in case anyone searches for me". He knows it was his father's insecurity speaking after losing his firstborn as his father had never asked him about his whereabouts before, not even when he came home late in his teens or remained in Mumbai for long periods without informing them in the early years of adulthood. Heck, his father chided his mother with his Bhaiya when she used to interrogate him about his numerous girlfriends or more aptly put flings.

But now the man seated opposite to him has become insecure about his children's lives after the huge loss. His father's current state is giving away a vibe that he is thinking gravely on a matter which will be a life-altering point for everyone. And he has never seen his father in such deep thoughts other than his cases or Srivastava Consultancy works. Anirudh could feel a certain prick in his being and uneasiness crawling up his spine at the sight of this broken man whom he calls 'Papa'. The man who gave him birth, the man who is a revered sharp and witty legal luminary of the country, the man he loves admires and idolise, the man who he and his brother has always looked up to and the man who has such a big heart that to father his best friend's child as his own. The man who has dealt with all sorts of negativities in his profession yet has remained unblemished to this date. His father, Dhananjay Srivastava, who has by now donned his attorney garb ready to interrogate his own son.

The elder one spoke," I would have bought that lie, if not for this-" while lifting from his seat and removing a little twig from his son's luscious dark flowy and now messy hair, leaving his son shocked. He again continued while sitting back,"-besides, it's a fact that I'm your father and I can very well read your face" and pointed his fingers to the other's red puffy eyes which easily gave away Anirudh's heartache.

"Okay fine! I was not out in urgency. I was at my and Bhaiya's hideout. And yeah I cried there. Now, happy!" He grumbled out his frustration of getting caught red-handed by his father while the other chuckled dryly. " I love your honesty, son. I know it's hard but we can't get away from reality, right! We are bound to accept this. Also, it's okay to shed tears and loosen up, in situations like this. Don't hold yourself back, my child", the father advised and in response, the son sighed heavily nodding later.

After a second, Anirudh chipped in," Practice what you preach, Papa" shocking the old man a little and watched his features soften a bit later. The old man wondered when has this younger lad of him has grown up?

Maybe in the time when he went away to stand and create his own place in this world all by himself. One of the several doubts that were there in his mind got cleared on its own. His Anirudh is now a well-grown adult and not a spoilt brat like his coevals. And this filled his heart with pride.

" Papa, you wanted to discuss something important, right?" he asked after being scrutinised by his father's experienced eyes which has the capacity to tremble the heart of obstreperous criminals. This broke the old man's reverie and replied," Yeah I wanted to but-" only to get interrupted by the youngster," Go on Papa, I'm all ears". It will be better to not beat around the bush, the elder one contemplated.

He sighed," I want you to-" and halted himself abruptly. Nah, it won't be good to jump into the main thing. Testing the waters first is my forte before diving in. He thought.

"Go on Papa", Anirudh coaxed him noticing the calculated tensed features of his father.

Dhananjay, the patriarch again started by correcting his previous sentence," I wanted to retire and hand over the reign of Srivastava Consultancy to Deekshya. What are your thoughts on this? Are you okay with this arrangement?" and completed hoping for his desired answer. This question is a perfect choice to test the waters. He and his wife have always been aware of the animosity between their coeval children even though the trio had tried their best to not make it obvious. But they were parents and they know their children to the core. But now with Ved's demise and the huge shift in their lives had forced his father's heart to decide the life course of Deekshya and Anirudh. This question posed in front of his son is to test whether after such a setback the long harboured hostility is still intact? This is to test whether the thing he actually wants to happen now will bear the desired fruits?

And the answer he got, is a shocker and also the only thing he wanted to hear.

" I think... I think it's a great idea, Papa", Anirudh finally responded after a few seconds of pondering. He again continued," And I'm totally fine with this. She is trained in that area and is exceptional. Also after Bhaiya's... she needs a distraction. And this will prove to be a good distraction according to me. It will be a great thing to do as it will keep her occupied. Besides, I have 'Dream Eventrra' and a year later I'm planning to launch an exclusive clothing line. I can't handle both, that too two unlikeable fields, one being event management and the other being related to law. You've yourself trained her and Bhaiya for this, though Bhaiya chose to join the army. But as now he is... She is perfect for this, Papa. I have got no issues. Rather I would recommend transferring all the things to her name soon. Work will keep her occupied and who knows it might help her to get over all this, eventually even move on" and spoke his mind out with a kind smile playing on his handsome features. He seemed excited and relaxed after hearing his father's decision as if he got the desired thing that is a ray of light which meant that one day everything will get fine. They all will eventually get through this.

The feeling that a thirsty traveller feels after getting hold of an oasis in the middle of a hot burning desert, is what Deekshya's father felt at that time. Even though it could be a mirage, but the hope he got through his son's words filled him with new-found confidence. The fact that his son Anirudh has mentioned his concern for the much-needed distraction of his only daughter first rather than just his incompetency to run the firm, cleared his another and most important doubt. His son's words somehow started to strengthen his belief in his actual decision which is completely different from what he said to his son. He wanted to test the waters, to test that is his son still holding the same abhorrence for Deekshya. And now he can say that he should dive into the deep waters even though there's still a possibility of getting drowned. His father side of the heart is ready to take the chance. Now he just needs one more assurance from the love of his life, his wife.

Anirudh then witnessed a confident and usual charming smile which is similar to his, on his father's face. Finally, after two days of distressed face, the smile bloomed there which made his heart flutter. It gave away the actual emotions of his father and he could feel he was proud and satisfied with his answer. The interrogative stature has long forgotten and the fatherly features settling in his father. He secretly thanked and prayed for the smile to remain intact, forever.

While he was thinking this, he didn't notice his father rising and rushing to him. When his father pulled him into a bone-crushing hug, he then realised the depth of his father's happiness. He gladly reciprocated and felt his fatherly affection just like the good old days. But when he felt the shrinking figure and wrinkled skin of his father, the reality hit him hard. His father is getting old, he is no longer that well-built man. At this thought, he felt a pit forming in his stomach but soon his reverie got broke.

The elder Srivastava pulled away and said," I'm proud of you son" while cupping his face. It was a statement straight from the heart and Anirudh gladly accepted it. The old man then continued," You're planning to launch a clothing line. Why didn't you tell us?" faking a glare which made the other chuckle. He replied," How can I not tell you guys? I had planned to tell you all after the wedding ceremony but..." stopped abruptly when realisation dawned upon them.

The father-son duo who were smiling some moments ago again felt the woebegone engulfing them at the mention of the third male of the family, who is no more. The father shed a few drops for his firstborn while the younger brother let loose his guards in front of his father. They missed Ved a lot and this is the truth that can never be changed.

Anirudh's phone went off breaking their trance and he pulled it out to see the caller ID. It was a call from the main branch situated in Mumbai and it seemed urgent as it was already long past the working hours. It can wait though, but he needed an escape plan.

" Papa, I'll see you at dinner. I need to attend this", he stated while pointing to his phone to which his father nodded. He did this purposely as he didn't want to show his broken self to his father anymore which will make the latter sadder. And the call proved to be his saviour. He hurriedly walked out of the room and headed towards the safe confines of his own room on a pretence of the so-called important call leaving behind his father who already knew the exact reason for this escape of his son. After all, he is a father.

Anirudh's POV

Finally... Finally, it's over and everything is back on track. How I wish I could say this about my personal life along with the professional front. No, Anirudh! Don't go down that lane again. Bhaiya won't appreciate it, my mind chided me.

I got free finally after an hour-long meeting with the office guys and the set of agitated clients. The call I got in the study turned into an emergency video conferencing meeting because of the sudden complications in a big event which is scheduled to be held in a week. Thank God, it got sorted within a single meeting or else I would have to fly back to Mumbai in the morning to solve the issue and of course, I can't leave my mourning family at this point. They need me and vice-versa. Thanks a ton, God, I thought and relaxed on the recliner.

Wait! I have been busy for an hour and haven't checked on anyone. Neither anyone checked on me. I sprang up from my seat and walked out of my room in pursuit of my family. Why the hell is this mansion so silent? Where's everyone?

I glanced down the majestic hall to find not a single soul lurking but soon I got the answer to my queries when my gaze fell on the particular frame hung on the wall. The photo frame garlanded with Chandan flowers and Diya lit in front of it. It was the frame that has captured the charming and ever welcoming smile of Captain Ved Srivastava, my Bhaiya. And then I realised that everyone must be in the only room which needs the major attention right now. Deekshya's room, which is just a room away from mine.

And before I could even realise, I found myself standing near one of the windows, which opens to the pillared corridors of the floor, left slightly ajar. I couldn't help the urge of eavesdropping and did it anyway.

I heard her saying," I'm sorry Papa. I should have done that but tell me one thing. Was that a place to create such a ruckus? At our dear Ved's funeral? It would have got ugly for sure and I didn't want that to happen. That's why I didn't answer them back. But yeah, I did wrong when I let those accusations take control over me and my senses. And I'm sorry for letting both of you down". She probably must have folded her hands then because I heard our parents fuss about it a second later.

So, this is the reason she didn't answer back to her bullies. All because she loves Bhaiya immensely and didn't want to create a scene at the funeral and prayer meet. And here I always thought that she was just using Bhaiya to keep herself secured. That was so wrong of me to even think. I was so blind in contempt that I had never paid heed to the love that the couple had shared. And now she not only took all those cruel jabs but also is suffering the most because of all this mess. Was I so blinded in my jealousy, hostility and rage that I had always overlooked her this side?

Damn you, Anirudh!

Will I be able to make up for all these mistakes? But then what about the past?

I suddenly heard Maa exclaiming in a happy and excited tone which pulled me out of my brooding spree," Yeah Deekshu, you're right! I'll call Anirudh. You two also come down after a while- ah- chuck it, you two come along now. We will set the table together" surprising me. Why Maa is sounding so happy now? Oh yeah, I've not heard their whole convo because I had zoned out and they must have moved on from that topic. I again heard the father-daughter duo teasing my mother," Ohhoo! The matriarch of Srivastava is back in charge" to which Maa shushed them and ordered them to follow her making me chuckle. And soon I heard the trio burst into peals of laughter just like they used to before the ugly turn of events. Is this my family who is mourning and now they're laughing their hearts out? Who did this magic?

I so wanted to hear my parents laugh and I'm so fortunate that I got the opportunity so fast. This trio is something else, they're laughing even though their hearts are weeping. Guess, in trying to pacify her, my parents have also sorted their feelings, a little though. The laughter is surely from their heart but kinda has the vibe of a forced one. Nevertheless, at least they're smiling. And this fact is enough to make me smile, I realised as I felt my lips curving up. But who did this?

Deekshya! All of a sudden something in me voiced out her name. Deekshya? Really?

My mind reasoned: yeah, of course, it's her who else.

I silently prayed to God for keeping that laugh fixed in their faces and also to give strength to that heart-sick girl. Even though she is an adversary for certain reasons but she has made our parents smile, also she is the ray of hope in these testing times, who herself is fighting her demons yet got successful in lightening the thick sorrowful air. Thanks, Deekshya and it is for the first time I'm thanking her. Should I thank her in person? Nah, that's a very bad idea. She will just give me a flat poker face which I don't appreciate much and maybe I'll get riled up which won't be good at this time because of the situations prevailing.

Suddenly I heard the trio walking out of the room which broke my thoughts. I mentally face-palmed myself for zoning out for the nth time. And hurriedly hid behind a pillar even before they could see me. Thankfully, they didn't notice my presence.

But for a second it felt like she saw me as turned back to check and I pasted myself to the pillar while praying to not get caught by her. By God's grace, she again joined the other two after peeking for a few seconds. Huff! I got saved by a little.

I sighed and came out of hiding. Wait! Why the hell I hid? I'm not a robber. Anirudh you're going insane, my mind mocked me. I dismissed my useless thoughts and marched back to my abode.

After nearly 15 mins, Lalu Kaka knocked at the door and informed me that dinner is being laid, everyone's waiting for me. As I was in the middle of some calculation to keep myself distracted, I said to him that I'll join them in a few minutes. And then he left. It took me more than 5 mins to wrap up. Soon I was walking down the stairs while my gaze fell upon the trio seated on the dining table at their usual place with one person missing, Bhaiya.

I sighed and walked up to them, once I reached, I knew everyone's attention is on me. I deliberately ignored them and pulled out my usual chair to get seated. After making myself comfortable, I faced them and the look on their faces made me realise my actions. Out of habit, I did that but the main reason is that I've promised already to Bhaiya and myself that I would never take his place, not here or at any other places.

I and Bhaiya always used to crib on this particular thing i.e. who will get to sit next to Papa to his left? Usually, Bhaiya won the privilege but sometimes he lent me that out of affection. And now he's not here. I then decided that this place will always remain vacant in honour of the martyred son of the household. I felt my heart sank as my eyes started getting blurry. Nevertheless, I composed myself as I can't fall weak because my family needs my support.

Soon, I felt Papa reaching out his hands towards me and running his palms on my head in adoration. His eyes filled with unshed tears and love for me, all at the same time. I summoned myself to give a half-hearted smile in response, it was the most I could do at that time.

After that, all of us started taking our dinner in silence not knowing what to converse. Occasionally, a few exchanges were made which was mostly done by the servants who were serving otherwise it didn't feel like the dining area always filled with merry Sriavsatava's. Of course, we all are mourning for the now lost light of all of our lives, Ved Srivastava.

Suddenly Papa started after completing his meal," We, me and your mother wanted to talk with you". As soon as Papa finished, Maa clutched his hand as if asking him that if he is sure and Papa assured her using his eyes.

Weird!

Papa must be wanting to say about his decision of transferring Srivastava Consultancy's ownership to Deekshya. But why Maa is reacting like this? It's not like Maa had ever seen her as an adopted child or even as a soon-to-be daughter-in-law of the house. Maa has always thought of her as her own daughter, the daughter she hadn't given birth to but no less dear to her like us. But suddenly what happened? Am I missing something here? Is there anything more to Papa's decision which I'm not aware of? Does Deekshya know anything?

Involuntarily my gaze fell upon her and at the same time, she also met my gaze. Her big black bewitching doe-shaped eyes met mine and for the very first time, I saw something there. They were no more a neutral set of orbs rather there was confusion written in them mirroring mine. I was left aghast. She has worn an emotion for the very first time in front of me. How?

Probably, its because she is vulnerable now and doesn't want to keep up her usual stoic stance as it must be so exhausting for her. My agitated features softened as I realised how all this had been so had for this poor girl and I don't know why but I'm feeling concerned about her. After that incident which took place several years ago, I'm feeling this for her. That day it was her fearful eyes that have successfully moved me and today it is her confusion filled eyes or more aptly put emotion-filled eyes that have converted my hostility for her into compassion.

And to be very honest, I'm shocked myself that I can say this that too accept this fact. Don't ask why because I don't have an answer.

Papa cleared his throat pulling both of us out from our trance and I encouraged him," Go on Papa. We are all ears" to which Deekshya also nodded. Papa and Maa both declared," We have decided something for the betterment of the whole family and of course, Deekshya" while it looked both are contemplating their decision. Why? That's a superb decision, so what's there to rethink about it?

Then again Maa requested," We expect both of you will understand from where we are coming and act accordingly though we hope for a positive response" leaving me hell confused. Why on earth Maa is including me in all this? I have already given my green signal to Papa and I know they must have discussed it. So, why she's requesting like that as if it's something else?

Oh, wait... Is it something else? Urghhh I'm going nuts!

But then an authoritative yet soft voice of my father boomed in the room," We want you both to get married".

WAIT, WHATTTTTT?

And after a second he continued," to each other. We want you both, Anirudh and Deekshya, to get married to each other. Everyone's betterment can only be ensured by this".

What? Are they serious? But they had decided to give the firm to her. From where this thing popped up in between? Marriage? That too to Deekshya, what the hell are they saying?

And for everyone's betterment? Especially Deekshya's... Oh, wait!

Realisation dawned upon me when Papa's words started making sense. Yeah, no matter how weird it sounds but in a way this can ensure all of ours betterment and peace of mind, especially Deekshya's. Even our parents will be somewhat relieved and very much happy with this. With this, we can show society that she's not what they say because there's no way I'm getting harm. Also most importantly, it might help her get through this.

But am I ready for this? Nooooo! How can I marry her? We don't even share a cordial relationship. And even if somehow this thing gets eased out then also, will she get ready for this? She loves Bhaiya truly. Will she be able to accept this? Will I be able to accept this? Even if anyhow this marriage happens then what's next? I don't know what's gonna be the future of this as we both don't even talk normally. And marriage? It will be a disaster, man.

" But you've promised your Bhaiya and yourself that you'll do everything for the well being of everyone".

A voice from within me reminded me of my promises made to Ved Bhaiya at our hideout this afternoon. But is this the thing, I need to do? Marry her? The fiance of my elder brother and an adversary of mine, Deekshya?

Another voiced reasoned again within me," But you've also promised Ved that you will never take his place. You'll just step up but never even try to take his position in everyone's life. Is this how you're gonna keep up your promises?"

Goddddd what I'm supposed to do now? I've got myself trapped in my own promises. Save me, Lord!

" I promise, I'll do everything you would have wanted me to do for the well being of everyone"

Suddenly I heard my own voice reverberating in my being. Words like 'Everything' and 'Everyone' started assaulting my mind along with the reverberation of my promise made to Bhaiya. But in all the chaos one question bugged me constantly: Does 'everyone' phrase of mine used then by me includes my nemesis Deekshya too?

I involuntarily closed my eyes not knowing how to face others and also for searching the answer within me. The answer should be given at this time, no delay can't be tolerated as its the need of the hour. Am I ready to get into a loveless, emotionless and somewhat circumstantial forced wedlock?

Well, I have promised Bhaiya and myself as well. And I can't back out. Also, our parents seem hopeful about this, if it makes them happy then be it. I don't know why this thing struck their mind but no matter how weird it sounds it does make sense. I can do this at least for my parent's happiness and maybe Deekshya's well being is there as well though I can't see how. Even if I have to suffer because of this then be it.

"Anything for family'. I chanted it in my mind as I replied after a good amount of self-talks," Okay Papa, I'm ready" in a firm voice after an unnerving deadpan silence.

I opened my eyes to witness the shocked expression of everyone. Of course, they weren't expecting me to decide so fast that too with a positive answer. They remained unmoved as if they all have become a statue. Maa was the first one to come out of the shock as she asked me," Are you sure Anirudh? Beta, We don't want you to answer-" and stopped abruptly when the soul sitting beside her hurriedly stood up. Deekshya stood up with a jerk and before even any one of us could say a single word, she vanished from the dining area. It was as if this place made her feel sick as if her legs had got their own brain and wanted to drag their owner out of this situation, out of another unwanted situation that has the capacity to break her again into million pieces that too by our parents. As if the presence of all of us and the proposed idea disgusted her.

Maa wanted to go after her but Papa stopped her," Smita, let her go. She needs to be alone" by grabbing her hands. Maa pleaded with him to don't do this and let her go after her daughter through eyes but one steely look from him and she knew it was better to stop.

I sighed heavily. Deekshya's reaction was nothing unexpected. I knew such a thing is coming. God knows what's gonna happen now.

Papa started, "I guess it's not our place to talk to her, Smita. Anirudh has assented with our decision. Probably, he should be the one to talk to her. He must have thought about this and he will be able to show her the bright side, also she wouldn't like to face us this soon with an agitated mind, you know her." trying to comfort Maa who has started weeping by now.

What? Do I have to talk to her? Papa has gone mad or what? How can I make her understand? We don't even talk normally. Urgh... God, what this mess I'm stepping into, that too willingly?

Again Papa continued turning to me," You should go talk to her Anirudh! But after some time, let her gather herself" to which I nodded not knowing how to present my dilemma in front of him.

How I'm supposed to talk to her and about what? I agreed with Papa's statement but there's a difference is saying and doing the thing. What's gonna happen now? Please God give us all the much-needed strength to tackle this situation. Was I right in taking the decision so fast? Am I committing a mistake?

End of POV

8255 Words. Pheww!

Tell me how's it? Honest reviews, please!

Yet another long chapter is here. Anirudh's POV it was and I didn't even realise when it became so long. And I don't know how it is, I don't like this as I feel it's not up to the mark. Pardon me, if you got bored with it.

The next chapter will have THE TALK. Who's excited?

I'm so happy! Thank you for giving this a try. Also, I'm really sorry for not replying to the comments. I'm actually busy with two internships and both are draining a lot of my time and energy, I'm even not getting time write this book. Somehow I managed to pull it up. Hopefully, y'all will understand.

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Updating Chapter 4 soon...

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~Signing off: Akankshya~

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