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________________________________________"A suprise update because we completed 1 million read on this book. 1 MILLION READS?! Someone pinch me because this feels like a dream! When I started writing His Arranged Bride, I never imagined it would reach so many hearts. Every laugh, every tear, every moment you've spent with this story has brought me here, and I can't thank you enough. You stayed with my characters-even when they messed up-and that means everything to me.

To my silent readers (yes, I know you're there) and my loud cheerleaders-this milestone is OURS. Thank you for believing in me and my words. You made this possible, and I'm so, so grateful!"
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आ तुझे इन बाहों में भर के और भी कर लूं मैं करीब
तू जुदा हो तो लगे हैं आता जाता हर पल अजीब
इस जहां में है और न होगा मुझसा कोइ भी खुशनसीब
तुने मुझको दिल दिया है में हूँ तेरे सबसे करीब
में ही तो तेरे दिल में हूँ में ही तोह साँसों में बसूं
तेरे दिल की धड़कनों में मैं ही हूँ मैं ही हूँ
तू हमसफ़र तू हमकदम तू हमनवा मेरा
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"Meet my first-ever friends," Sidharth ji said, his voice soft but steady.

I followed his gaze, my eyes settling on the horses a little ahead. There were five or six of them, their forms illuminated by the dim sunlight filtering through the stable. They were unlike anything I had seen before-not on phone screens, not in movies. This was real, real enough to make my heart flutter, and my nerves tighten all at once.

They were magnificent. The way their muscles moved, their coats gleaming in shades of brown and black, made them seem almost unreal. One of them-deep brown with a rich, shiny coat-was the most striking. Yet, as much as their beauty drew me in, it also scared me.

The horses shifted slightly, as if sensing Sidharth ji. One tossed its head, the movement graceful yet powerful. It was enough to make me take a small step back, my pulse quickening. I wasn't sure if it was fear or fascination-perhaps both.

Sidharth ji must have noticed because his hand gently took mine. His touch was warm, steadying me even though my nerves refused to calm. Without a word, he began to lead me closer. I could feel his presence beside me, quiet but grounding, as though the horses weren't just his friends but a part of him.

When we reached the shiny brown horse, Sidharth ji raised his hand to stroke its neck. The horse responded immediately, leaning into his touch with a gentle nicker, a sound that startled me enough to freeze.

I took another hesitant step back, unsure of what to do with the strange mix of emotions swirling inside me.

"Darriye mat, Noor. Yeh aapko kuch nahi karenge, Mai hu"

(Don't be scared, Noor. They won't hurt you. I'm here.)

His voice was calm, almost tender, like he wasn't just so silent all day. It felt like a promise not just to protect me from the horses but from the uncertainty that seemed to surround everything between us.

I nodded slightly, though my heart was still racing. How could he be so at ease with these enormous creatures? And why did I feel like I could trust him, even if I couldn't trust myself around them?

Sidharth ji's hand moved gently over the horse's neck, and I couldn't look away. He seemed so calm, so at ease, that it felt like I was peeking into a part of him I didn't know. The horse made a small sound again, and I instinctively took another step back.

When Sidharth ji turned toward me, his striking eyes locked with mine. His hand stilled, and for a moment, it felt like the world around us paused. His gaze didn't give away much-his expression was unreadable, mysterious even-but there was something comforting in the way he looked at me.

"This is Siraj," he said, his voice low and steady.

My eyes flickered back to the horse, and I felt my breath hitch. He was beautiful, his rich brown coat gleaming in the light. Still, I couldn't shake the nervousness bubbling inside me. Sidharth ji continued, his tone soft yet passionate, as if every word carried a memory.

"He's my childhood horse," he explained, his hand moving gently along Siraj's neck.

"He had a twin, you know. That one's back at home. But Siraj... he's always been my favorite."

The way he spoke, the way his voice softened as he looked at Siraj, made me smile despite myself. There was something so endearing about seeing him like this-calm, lost in his memories, and so genuinely fond of his horse. I couldn't help but wonder how someone who could be so guarded could also have this warmth hidden inside him.

When Sidharth ji turned back to me, I quickly averted my gaze, feeling the heat rush to my cheeks. He tightened his hold on my hand ever so slightly, grounding me.

"Do you want to touch him?" he asked, his tone gentle but firm, as if he already knew my answer.

My eyes widened, and I shook my head quickly.

"Nahi... nahi, mujhe darr lagta hai."
(No... no, I'm scared.)

A small, almost amused smile tugged at his lips, but he didn't say anything. Instead, he let go of Siraj and walked toward me. Before I could move or protest, he stood behind me, his presence warm and steady.

I froze when I felt his other hand gently take mine, his fingers brushing against my skin as he entwined our hands. My heart skipped, my breaths shallow and uneven. Slowly, Sidharth ji guided my hand upward, his firm grip reassuring yet sending a shiver down my spine.

"It's okay," he murmured, his voice so close it made my heart stutter.

He lifted my hand toward Siraj, his touch gentle but unyielding. When my fingers finally brushed against the horse's coat, I sucked in a sharp breath. Siraj's fur was warm, soft, and surprisingly calming under my touch.

For a moment, everything else faded-the fear, the nervousness-and all I could focus on was the way Sidharth ji's hand held mine, steady and sure, as if he was anchoring me to this moment.

I kept my hand on Siraj's neck, feeling the warmth of his fur beneath my trembling fingers. But it wasn't just my hand-it was Sidharth ji's too, his strong fingers gently intertwined with mine, his palm resting over the back of my hand as he guided me. His touch was firm yet calm, steadying the nervousness that threatened to bubble over inside me.

It was strange-this moment. The fear, the nerves, and something else I couldn't quite name swirling inside me. But what drew my attention next wasn't the horse.

I glanced back, tilting my head slightly, looking up toward Sidharth ji. He stood tall behind me, his eyes fixed on Siraj, completely lost in his own world. For a second, I wondered what he was thinking. There was a calmness about him, a quiet strength, but also a distance, as if he wasn't really here with me.

And then, as if sensing my gaze, Sidharth ji's head tilted down, his sharp eyes locking with mine.

The moment froze.

I couldn't look away from him, the intensity in his eyes pinning me in place. There was something so unspoken, so raw, in that brief eye contact that it made my heart race. But then, just as quickly, I felt Siraj shift slightly under my hand, his pulse strong and steady against my palm. My breath hitched, and I looked down, cheeks burning red.

Sidharth Ji didn't seem to notice-or maybe he did, but he didn't let it show. Instead, he left my hand for a moment & his hand moved gently over Siraj's back, still covering mine, his touch deliberate and smooth, as if calming the horse.

I watched him out of the corner of my eye, unsure of what he was doing. He made it look so effortless, like he was born to be here.

And then, his hand was on mine again.

He guided my trembling fingers further down Siraj's neck, then toward his back, showing me how to move gently, patiently. His presence behind me was impossible to ignore-warm, steady, and so close I could feel the faint brush of his breath near my ear.

I swallowed hard, trying to focus, but when he leaned down, his lips barely an inch from my ear, his voice sent a shiver down my spine.

"The one I have back home," he murmured, his tone low and intimate, "his name is Viraj."

Goosebumps erupted along the back of my neck, the soft timbre of his voice pulling me into a daze. I felt my body react before my mind could catch up, my pulse quickening as my breath hitched again. I squeezed my eyes shut for a brief second, trying to steady myself, but it was useless. His closeness, his voice-it was too much.

As quickly as he spoke, Sidharth ji straightened up again, his hand still over mine. He began talking about Viraj-how he was Siraj's twin, how they grew up together. His tone was calm, but there was a passion in his words that made me smile shyly.

He seemed... different today. It was much different than yesterday.

And then, he stopped.

I let out a shaky breath, realizing only then how much I'd been holding back, how his proximity had stolen all the air around me. But even as he stepped back slightly, he didn't let go of my hands.

I hesitated before glancing over my shoulder. When I did, I found Siddharth ji looking at me again, his sharp features softening into a small, almost teasing smile.

"Chaliye," he whispered, his voice quiet but firm. "Aur ghodon se milata hoon."

(Come. I'll introduce you to the other horses.)

He took a step beside me, his hand guiding mine as he led me toward the other horses. My feet felt heavy at first, my heart still racing, but I let him pull me along.

The other horses were just as majestic as Siraj. Sidharth ji described each of them briefly-a gentle white mare, a playful young chestnut stallion. His voice remained calm, yet there was something so passionate in the way he spoke.

And I couldn't help but feel it again-that strange pull toward him. It wasn't just his words or his actions.

It was him, Sidharth ji.

They walked back to Siraj, their hands still entwined, fingers softly linked. Sidharth's face was calm, his expression steady, but there was something about him-something that made her heart beat just a little faster.

Noor couldn't help but sneak glances at him, stealing moments where she could study his profile. She felt... comfortable now, more than she had before. Maybe it was because of him-because of how he had made her feel safe, made her touch the horse and experience this moment.

They reached Siraj, and Sidharth moved with a quiet grace, reaching out to gently rub the horse's neck. His fingers trailed softly along the animal's mane, making small, soothing sounds-like he was comforting the horse, soothing it in a way that seemed familiar to him. Noor watched, fascinated, drawn to his every movement. There was something so natural, so tender about how he cared for the animal-something she didn't expect from someone like Siddharth.

"Siraj & Viraj are twins," Siddharth murmured softly, his voice steady, yet filled with warmth.

"Twins in horses are very rare, almost impossible..." his voice wavered slightly, "....Even their mother died while giving birth to them-they came out strong. Both of them are warriors."

Noor listened, her eyes shifting from the horse to him. His words were simple, yet full of emotion. His eyes-calm, but they seemed almost lost in thought, as if he were remembering something far beyond just the horses.

His gaze softened as he spoke, and Noor couldn't help but notice how deeply connected he seemed, how sincere his words were. There was something... poetic about the way he looked at the horse-something that made her chest tighten.

Was it sympathy? No, it wasn't that. It was something more-a genuine bond, like he understood them in a way she couldn't quite grasp.

She watched him in silence, studying the way his eyes softened, the way his lips formed a gentle smile as he spoke. There was something...profound in his gaze-something that stirred something inside her, something she didn't quite know how to name. It made her feel drawn in, like she was slowly learning a part of him, piece by piece.

Without warning, Sidharth carefully climbed up onto Siraj's back. His movements were steady, smooth, and controlled. His posture was strong, yet graceful, and as he sat astride the horse, it was as though he belonged there-like he had done this countless times before. He left her hand gently, but the heat of his touch lingered, leaving a trail of warmth.

Noor's eyes widened as she watched him, taking in his form-his tall, imposing figure, confident but calm. She couldn't help but feel the pull, the way he seemed to command respect even from the horses. The intensity in his actions was undeniable, and it left her mesmerized.

He turned to look down at her, his gaze steady, his expression soft but purposeful. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and his eyes held a quiet challenge-inviting her to join him. Slowly, he extended a hand toward her, silently offering it, as though silently asking her to take a step closer, to trust him.

Noor's breath hitched in her throat. Her fingers twitched, unsure. The thought of climbing up onto that horse-of standing so close to him-made her heart race faster. And yet, despite her nervousness, she found herself looking up at him, her eyes locked with his. She could feel the pull, the way his gaze seemed to seep into her, making her feel something she didn't expect.

Swallowing hard, she gently reached out, letting her small hand brush against his. Her fingers hesitated slightly before she finally entwined them with his, their fingers sliding together. His hand was warm, strong-secure. And yet, it wasn't dominating, but gentle, leading her forward.

She felt it-the slight pressure of his fingers above hers, as if guiding her, easing her into this unfamiliar territory. Slowly, he began to lead her closer to Siraj, his touch steady, reassuring. Noor's heart pounded in her chest, her nerves catching up to her, but something about the way he held her-calm and composed-made her feel safe.

Sidharth's voice broke the silence, soft yet firm, "Aaiye." His eyes locked onto hers, patient, yet expectant. Noor looked up at him, her heart hammering against her chest. Her fingers still hesitated, unsure if she could trust herself enough to climb onto the horse.

(Come)

But Sidharth didn't move away. Instead, his grip on her hand tightened just slightly, gently-firm, yet not forceful. His gaze dropped into hers, steady and unwavering. And then, his voice, smooth yet full of meaning, echoed softly in the quiet space between them.

"Mujh pe bharosa rakhiye, Noor. Main hoon."

(Trust me, Noor. I'm here)

The way he said it-so simple, yet filled with so much more-calmed the erratic beating of her heart. His words weren't just reassurance; they carried a promise, a silent vow that he would be there for her-always.

Noor took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his words. There was a strange calm in the certainty of his voice, as if every doubt she had just melted away. And slowly, she nodded. Yes, she trusted him. She did.

She stepped forward, ready to climb onto the horse, but her body faltered. Her feet were unsure, and she quickly realized she didn't know how to climb on. She froze, glancing up at Siddharth sheepishly.

"Um, I-I don't know how to climb on a horse," she admitted, blushing slightly.

A quiet chuckle escaped from Sidharth, and it made her heart flutter. He gracefully stepped down from the horse, the tension from yesterday easing away, replaced now by something softer-a sense of ease between them.

He moved behind her, silent and deliberate. Slowly, he walked closer, his presence looming yet comforting. Noor's breath caught in her throat, and she felt the heat rising to her cheeks. His hands gently settled on her waist, steady and sure.

Noor froze, feeling the warmth of his touch seep through her dress, the weight of his hands holding her gently, yet firmly. She was momentarily paralyzed by the sensation-his touch was both protective and possessive in a way that made her heart pound.

Before she could even react, he began lifting her, his hands strong yet tender, pulling her up with quiet ease. She let out a small gasp as she felt herself being guided toward the horse, his hands gently settling her into place.

There she sat, the world tilting slightly beneath her. Before she could proceed with anything, she felt him climbing up & sitting behind her.

It was Sidharth's presence behind her that anchored her. Her cheeks flushed deep crimson as she felt his warmth settle close against her back. And before she could process more, she felt him shift-his arms moving from behind her.

He leaned forward slightly, his hands now gripping the reins of the horse. She could feel his strength radiate through his fingers as he expertly held the reins, the grip precise and commanding. The horse shifted beneath them, its front leg lifting slightly, making a soft sound.

Noor's body instinctively pressed against Sidharth, her frame aligning with his. Her heart skipped a beat,She felt the strong curve of his forearms as they curved around her, his arms firmly anchoring her to the horse. Her fingers instinctively clutched at his forearms, trembling slightly, and she let out a small gasp-a mixture of surprise and awe.

At that moment, Sidharth leaned closer, his breath hot against her ear. In a low, comforting whisper, he murmured,

"Shh, I'm here."

The simple words, spoken so softly, carried a warmth she hadn't expected. It wasn't just a whisper-it was reassurance, care, an unspoken vow that he would shield her from whatever fear she felt. It was something more-a deep connection, as though he could feel what she felt.

Noor's heart fluttered, a warmth blooming deep within her. It wasn't just his touch-it was everything about him-the steady care, the quiet strength, the possessiveness that radiated beneath his every movement.

And in that moment, it became clear to her. He wasn't just holding her for the sake of helping-he was there to protect her, to guide her. And though it made her uneasy at first, it slowly began to feel right-this unspoken connection between them, a strange understanding growing with every breath they shared.

Sidharth tightened his grip on the reins, his hands steady, commanding. The horse responded to his silent cue, its hooves moving slowly, rhythmically. The faint sound of the horse's movement against the earth filled the air, and Noor's heart stuttered as the motion began.

Her fingers curled tighter into Sidharth's forearms, her nails digging in instinctively as fear gripped her chest. It wasn't intentional-she wasn't even aware she was doing it. But Sidharth didn't flinch, didn't say a word. He let her hold on, his silence speaking louder than anything he could say.

Then, he clicked his tongue softly, urging the horse to pick up the pace just a little. Noor let out a small gasp, her body stiffening against his. Her breath caught in her throat, and for a brief moment, she felt like the ground beneath her was slipping away.

"Ah!" she gasped, a small sound of fear escaping her lips.

Sidharth, without hesitation, released one hand from the reins. His strong arm moved around her waist, pulling her back gently but firmly against him. Noor felt his chest press against her back, the steady warmth of his body grounding her in a way that no words ever could. His hand settled on her stomach, protective and unyielding, as if to shield her from the very thing that scared her.

She froze, her heartbeat loud in her ears. The heat of his palm seeped through the fabric of her dress, the weight of his touch both reassuring and intimate. Slowly, without thinking, her own hand moved to cover his, her fingers trembling as they rested atop his.

She didn't speak-she couldn't. The closeness of their bodies, the way his strength enveloped her, left her utterly breathless. For the first time, she wasn't just scared-she was aware.

Aware of every inch of him, the way his arm held her, the firmness of his body against hers, the steady rise and fall of his chest as he breathed.

"Enjoy," he whispered in her ear, his voice low, rough, yet laced with something tender. His breath brushed against her skin, sending a shiver down her spine.

Noor's grip on his hand tightened, her fingers latching onto his like he was the only thing keeping her grounded. Her cheeks burned, her heart pounding so loudly she was sure he could hear it. And yet, despite the chaos within her, she felt safe. Completely, undeniably safe.

The horse began to pick up speed, its hooves now moving with more rhythm. The world around them blurred slightly, the gentle breeze lifting strands of Noor's hair and carrying them back against Sidharth's chest.

His hand didn't move from her waist, holding her securely in place. The strength in his grip wasn't overwhelming-it was comforting, like an unspoken promise that she wasn't alone. Noor leaned back slightly, her body instinctively seeking his warmth, his presence.

Sidharth clicked his tongue again, and the horse began to trot faster. Noor's breath hitched as the sudden motion jolted her slightly, pressing her even closer to him. Her fingers clung to his forearm as if her life depended on it, and she let out a soft gasp, unable to help herself.

"Shh," he murmured, his lips so close to her ear that she could feel their warmth. His voice was soothing, yet there was a quiet authority in it, a confidence that made her trust him without question.

The two of them moved in unison now, the rhythm of the horse carrying them around the open field. Noor was no longer scared-not entirely. The fear was still there, lingering at the edges of her mind, but it was drowned out by something stronger-the safety she felt in Sidharth's arms, the quiet intensity of his presence.

And as the horse rounded the ground, the world seemed to fade away. It was just them-the sound of the horse's hooves, the steady warmth of Sidharth's body against hers, and the unspoken connection that seemed to bind them closer with every passing moment.

The horse moved steadily beneath them, its rhythm soothing yet unsteadying, matching the wild thrum of Noor's heartbeat. Sidharth's strong arm stayed firm around her waist, anchoring her to him as if he could sense her fleeting hesitation.

The world around them blurred-a soft haze of twilight, a murmur of distant winds. Yet, Noor could feel every detail of him. The way his chest pressed against her back, warm and unyielding, the faint scent of his cologne lingering between them, and the quiet power in the way his hand rested on her stomach.

He was like the rain-steady, relentless, and impossible to ignore.

She tightened her hold on his forearm, her nails pressing slightly deeper into his skin, seeking comfort, stability-or perhaps something she didn't yet understand.

Without warning, Sidharth leaned forward. His chin came to rest on her bare shoulder, brushing against the delicate curve revealed by the neckline of her suit. His warmth spread through her, quiet but consuming, like embers fanned to life.

Noor's breath hitched, her chest rising and falling with an uneven rhythm, and she tightened her grip on his arm, her fingers trembling.

"Let me show you something," he whispered, his voice low and velvety, sending a rush of goosebumps skimming across her skin. His breath danced along the curve of her neck, soft and intimate, igniting a fire that left her utterly unmoored.

The words seemed to linger in the air, curling around her like a secret only they shared. Noor's cheeks flamed, the blush creeping up her face as her heart thundered, wild and frantic, against her ribcage. She felt caught-between the closeness of his voice and the warmth of his body, between fear and something thrillingly unfamiliar.

Sidharth's chin stayed against her shoulder as his face leaned closer, his nose brushing along her neck. The soft graze of his skin against hers sent shivers racing down her spine, her eyes fluttering shut for a moment as her senses sharpened. She felt everything. His steady breathing. His quiet strength. The way his fingers subtly tightened on the reins, steering the horse toward a different path.

The horse turned, its pace gentle, as if Sidharth's quiet dominance extended even to the animal. Noor's eyes opened, barely focusing on their surroundings, her body too aware of the man behind her.

The forest loomed ahead-a quiet sanctuary of tall trees and scattered shadows. The air grew cooler, carrying with it a faint, earthy scent. Sidharth slowed the horse, and as the movement softened, he shifted closer, pressing her back firmly against him.

Noor's breath stuttered when she felt his nose again-this time tracing the curve of her neck, a deliberate motion that sent a thrill racing through her veins. His touch wasn't harsh, yet it held an authority, a quiet command that made her surrender to the moment.

Her lashes lowered, and for a fleeting second, she let herself sink into the strange pull of him-the steady weight of his arm around her, the whisper of his breath against her skin, the way he moved as though she belonged to him.

But before she could lose herself entirely, the horse came to an abrupt stop. Its sudden stillness jolted her back, the spell momentarily broken. Noor's eyes flew open, her heart still racing, her pulse wild, as she clung to the reins and the man behind her.

The horse came to a gentle stop, and before them lay a sight that seemed to belong to a dream rather than reality. A small, still lake stretched out like a mirror, its waters so clear that Noor could see the stones resting beneath its surface, perfectly shaped by time and untouched by the chaos of the world. The sunlight danced on the water, creating a shimmer that felt almost magical.

Surrounding the lake were tall trees, their trunks rising like sentinels, their leaves swaying gently in the cool breeze. The forest seemed alive, humming with the soft sounds of nature. Birds sang in harmony, their melodies echoing through the air, weaving a song that was both soothing and enchanting. Noor closed her eyes for a moment, letting the sounds wash over her.

When she opened them, her gaze fell on the corner of the clearing. There, nestled near the edge of the trees, was a patch of rose bushes. The deep red and maroon blooms stood out like jewels against the greenery, their petals soft and full, as if guarding secrets of their own. Noor's lips parted slightly, a soft smile gracing her face as her cheeks flushed with the cool air and the sheer beauty of it all.

She had seen her village's beauty before, the simplicity of fields and rivers, but this-this was different. It felt untouched, sacred, as if the earth itself had whispered its most beautiful secrets to this spot. The butterflies danced freely here, their colorful wings flickering like little shards of sunlight. Noor couldn't tear her eyes away.

The horse began to move again, slow and steady, as Sidharth guided it. His arm stayed firm around her waist, his grip protective yet easy, as if he knew they needed this moment. He didn't speak, allowing the quiet hum of the forest and the gentle rhythm of the horse to fill the space between them.

Noor's eyes stayed fixed on the lake, her mind caught in the spell of its beauty. She barely noticed when Sidharth turned the horse slightly, leading it to circle the water. The breeze grew cooler as they neared the water's edge, and Noor shivered slightly, drawing closer to Siddharth without realizing it.

Sidharth tilted his head toward her, his chin brushing lightly against her temple. "Beautiful, isn't it?" he murmured, his deep voice breaking the silence like a soft echo.

Noor nodded, her throat tight with wonder. She couldn't bring herself to speak; words seemed too small, too clumsy, for a moment like this. Her fingers, still resting lightly on Sidharth's arm, tightened slightly as if anchoring herself to him while the world around her spun with beauty.

The horse's slow walk continued, the sound of its hooves a quiet rhythm against the soft earth. Siddharth leaned in just a little more, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered,

"I wanted you to see this."

Noor's heart stuttered, her chest rising and falling with shallow breaths. She felt her cheeks burn again, but not just from the cold. She glanced up at him, his face calm but unreadable, his gaze fixed on the path ahead. He looked like he belonged here, as if the strength of the trees and the calm of the lake mirrored him in some way.

Her eyes returned to the roses, the lake, the butterflies-every part of it. The horse moved slowly, as if it, too, didn't want to disturb the perfection of the moment. Noor let herself relax against Sidharth, feeling the steady beat of his heart against her back, the quiet strength of his arm around her.

It wasn't just beautiful. It felt like something more-like a secret shared only between them and this little corner of the world.

Sidharth swung down from the horse in one smooth motion, his boots landing softly on the earth. The faint crunch of the ground beneath him barely broke the stillness of the air. He turned back, his expression calm and unreadable, yet his presence spoke volumes.

There was no smile on his face, no need for one. His posture, the way he stood tall yet inviting, the quiet power in his movements-it all called to Noor in a way words never could.

He extended his hand toward her, his palm open, fingers steady. Noor's breath hitched for a moment as she looked at him. Without hesitation, she placed her hand in his, her fingers trembling slightly against the warmth of his skin. His grip was firm but not forceful, guiding her down from the horse.

As Noor descended, her hair slipped loose, soft strands brushing against Sidharth's face. He closed his eyes briefly as if savoring the fleeting touch. A sharp breath escaped him, quiet but filled with something she couldn't name. Her cheeks warmed instantly, and she hurriedly tucked her hair behind her ear, avoiding his gaze as a soft flush spread across her face.

Sidharth's eyes opened, darker now, holding a weight that made Noor's pulse quicken. He stepped back, his movements slow and deliberate, while she took a hesitant step forward. Drawn by the serene beauty of the lake, Noor walked toward its bank. The cold breeze kissed her skin, and as she crouched down, her fingers grazed the water's surface.

It was cold-sharp yet soothing. A small smile bloomed on her lips, unbidden but pure. The peace of the moment wrapped around her, filling her chest with something she couldn't quite describe. She glanced back over her shoulder, and her breath caught.

Sidharth was still standing near the horse, his eyes fixed on her. His gaze was steady, almost piercing, but not unsettling. There was something deeper in it, something that made her feel as though she was the only thing in the world he could see. A small smile tugged at his lips, faint but genuine, and it made her heart stutter.

Blushing again, Noor stood and took a few tentative steps toward the flower bushes near the edge of the clearing. She knelt slowly, her fingers brushing against the velvety petals of a deep red rose. She leaned closer, inhaling its soft fragrance. It was intoxicating, a mix of sweetness and something raw, unfiltered.

When she looked up, a wide smile still lighting her face, she froze. Sidharth was kneeling in front of her, so close that she could feel his presence without even touching him. Her smile faltered for a moment, not because she wanted to hide it but because the intensity of his gaze stole her breath.

He reached up quietly, his movements measured, and tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. His fingers lingered just a moment longer than they needed to, his touch both featherlight and grounding. Noor's heart thundered in her chest, her lips parting as though to speak, but no words came.

Their eyes locked, and the world around them seemed to fade. The birds, the breeze, the water-everything fell silent. Siddharth leaned in slightly, his voice low, rough, and intimate as he whispered,

"Aap bahut khoobsurat hai, Cherry"

(You are very beautiful, Cherry)

The words hit her like a storm, her chest tightening, her heart skipping so many beats it felt like it might stop altogether. She felt her cheeks burn, the blush spreading like wildfire. Her lips parted, frozen in the moment, her breath uneven.

The rawness in his tone, the way he said her name like it was a prayer and a promise all at once-it was overwhelming. Sidharth didn't move, didn't break the connection of their gaze, as though daring her to look away.

Noor couldn't.

Her pulse roared in her ears, her body caught between the cold of the lake's breeze and the heat radiating from him. She felt both lost and found, her emotions swirling too quickly to make sense of.

This moment-it was intimate, unspoken, and undeniably theirs.

Sidharth's gaze was heavy, piercing through the moment like it held the power to stop time itself. But Noor couldn't bear the intensity of it anymore. She broke the eye contact, her lashes fluttering downward, and looked away. Her chest felt tight, her heart hammering with a force that made her feel breathless. A soft blush painted her cheeks, blooming slowly, unbidden.

Her eyes dropped to the flowers near her feet, their vibrant reds and deep maroons blurring as she whispered, "T-Thank you." The words trembled in the air, barely more than a murmur.

She stood abruptly, her fingers reaching for her dupatta. She adjusted it nervously, as though the familiar fabric could shield her from the storm of emotions threatening to break free. Her breaths came shallow, uneven, and she bit her lower lip in an attempt to compose herself. Turning her attention to the lake, she sought refuge in its calmness, the clear water reflecting the soft blue of the sky.

And then, it happened-a warm hand sliding into hers.

The touch was firm yet gentle, an unspoken promise wrapped in the heat of his palm. Noor froze, her breath hitching. Her gaze fell to their joined hands, the sight of his larger, rough hand enveloping her smaller, delicate one sending a jolt through her chest.

Slowly, almost hesitantly, she looked up, but Sidharth wasn't even looking at her. His face was calm and unreadable, as though holding her hand was the most natural thing in the world. His eyes were fixed on the lake ahead, his posture commanding yet effortless.

He began to walk, his grip on her hand unyielding but not harsh. Noor followed, her feet moving on instinct while her gaze remained on him. Every step felt surreal, like they were walking into a dream woven from the whispers of the wind and the soft rustling of the trees.

She couldn't look away. The curve of his jaw, the way his shawl draped over his broad shoulders, the faint breeze ruffling his hair-it was hypnotic. Everything about him exuded power, control, and something deeper, something that made her chest tighten in ways she couldn't understand.

Then, as if sensing her gaze, Sidharth turned his head toward her. Noor's heart jumped, and she quickly looked away, her cheeks burning. She stared down at the ground, at the soft crunch of their footsteps, feeling caught.

"Bachpan mein dadaji ke saath aaya karta tha..." Sidharth's voice cut through the silence, deep and steady, carrying a weight that made her chest tighten.

("I used to come here with my grandfather when I was a child...")

He paused, his steps slowing as though lost in the echo of his own words. The way he said it, quiet and reflective, made Noor glance up at him, curiosity flickering in her brown eyes.

"Tab ye jagah... mere ghore... mujhe sukoon dete the," he continued, his tone softer now, filled with an ache she didn't understand.

("Back then, this place... my horses... gave me peace."")

The way he said it, so distant yet so vulnerable, made something stir in her. Without thinking, the question slipped from her lips, barely above a whisper. "Aur ab?"

("And now?")

He stopped walking. The sudden halt made her heart pound harder. He turned toward her fully, their hands still intertwined, and Noor felt a new kind of weight settle in the air between them.

His eyes found hers, the icy blue depths soft yet brimming with intensity. It wasn't just a look; it was a pull, magnetic, and all-consuming. Her breath hitched as he reached up with his free hand.

His fingers, rough and calloused, brushed against her cheek as he cupped it gently. The touch sent a shiver down her spine, the contrast between his hands and her soft skin making her pulse race. His thumb moved slowly, tracing the curve of her cheek, and the tenderness in the gesture felt almost unbearable.

Her wide brown eyes met his, and the world around them seemed to fade away. The lake, the trees, the distant hum of nature-it all blurred into nothingness. There was only him, the way his gaze held hers captive, and the warmth of his touch grounding her.

"Aab bas aapka hona deta hai," he murmured, his voice low and raw, filled with a quiet reverence that made her heart stop and start again.

("Now, only your presence gives me peace.")

The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. His thumb continued its soft caress, and Noor felt the blush deepening on her cheeks. Her lips parted slightly, but no words came. She couldn't speak, couldn't move, couldn't breathe.

She stood frozen under his touch, her heart racing as if trying to escape her chest. The intensity of his gaze, the way he looked at her, the words he just said like she was the only thing that mattered-it was overwhelming, suffocating, and yet she didn't want it to stop.

And in that moment, as the wind played with her dupatta and the soft murmur of the lake filled the silence, she felt herself slipping deeper into the spell he was weaving around her.

The sudden caw of a bird pierced through the silence, shattering the fragile stillness that wrapped around them like a cocoon. Sidharth's gaze flickered upward, his sharp blue eyes narrowing slightly as he noticed the sky shifting. Dark clouds were beginning to roll in, casting shadows over the serene lake and dimming the soft glow of the sun.

Lowering his head, his jaw tightened in thought as his hand instinctively brushed the edge of his shawl. He glanced at his watch, the sleek silver face catching a brief glimmer of light. It was past three in the afternoon. A realization dawned on him-they had been out for hours, nearly five, wandering aimlessly yet purposefully lost in each other.

His lips pressed into a firm line. She hadn't eaten. It was colder now, the air carrying a biting edge he hadn't noticed earlier. He knew she must be feeling it, too, even if she wouldn't say it aloud.

His composure remained unshaken, calm, and deliberate. Sidharth wasn't a man to let unease dictate his actions. He lowered his gaze to Noor, who still stood close, her expression dazed, her lips parted ever so slightly. Her chest rose and fell in uneven breaths, the weight of his words still lingering between them.

His hand, rough yet achingly gentle, was still cradling her cheek. He shifted slightly, his fingers brushing against her skin as if reluctant to part. With a subtle tilt of his head, he caught her chin between his thumb and forefinger, tilting her face up toward him.

"Cherry," his voice was soft but commanding, and her lashes fluttered as she was pulled from her trance. Her brown eyes met his, wide and searching, the remnants of her blush still vivid on her cheeks.

"Let's go. It's getting dark," he said, his tone steady but low, carrying a warmth that contrasted with the chill around them.

Noor blinked, her lips trembling slightly as she nodded. She didn't trust herself to speak, her thoughts still a jumbled mess, her heartbeat erratic.

Sidharth let his hand drop, but not before his fingers brushed the edge of her dupatta, lingering for a fraction of a second. He turned away, his movements unhurried but purposeful. With ease, he untied the reins of the horse, the sound of the leather stirring in the air. Then, turning back to Noor, he extended his hand, palm open and inviting.

She hesitated for the briefest moment before placing her smaller hand in his. The warmth of his touch spread through her, grounding her in a way she couldn't explain. With one fluid motion, he guided her toward the horse, his presence a silent assurance that she was safe.

Sidharth helped her onto the horse first, his hands steady as they found her waist, lifting her effortlessly. Noor clutched the edge of the saddle, her breath hitching when his fingers lingered just a second longer than necessary. Once she was secure, he moved to mount behind her, his larger frame dwarfing hers as he settled into place.

She expected him to urge the horse forward, but instead, he shifted slightly. The shawl draped over his shoulders fell loose for a moment before he adjusted it. Noor's brows furrowed, confused, until she felt the soft fabric being pulled over her as well.

Her breath caught as she realized what he was doing. The shawl was wide, its fabric heavy and warm, and Sidharth carefully arranged it to cover them both. His movements were precise and unhurried, as if this was the most natural thing in the world. Noor froze, unsure of what to say, but he didn't seem to need her words.

The shawl now enveloped them both, cocooning them in a shared warmth that felt far more intimate than anything else they had experienced that day. Sidharth's arm brushed against hers as he adjusted the reins with one hand. The other, just as before, found its place at her waist, steady and possessive.

Noor swallowed hard, her gaze fixed on the horizon, but her mind was acutely aware of every point of contact between them. The firm hold of his hand on her waist, the way his breath mingled with the cool air, the warmth of the shawl binding them together-it was overwhelming.

Sidharth didn't speak. He didn't have to. His actions, deliberate and quiet, spoke volumes. There was an unspoken intensity in the way he held her, a quiet promise that was both comforting and consuming.

The horse stirred beneath them, and with a gentle nudge, Sidharth urged it forward. Noor's heart raced as she felt the subtle shift of his body against hers. She gripped the edge of the saddle, trying to steady herself, but the presence of his arm around her waist was an anchor she couldn't ignore.

They began their journey back, the rhythmic sound of the horse's hooves filling the silence. Noor dared to glance sideways, catching a glimpse of his profile. His expression was calm, but his jaw was set with a quiet determination, his focus unwavering.

The world around them faded into the background. The forest seemed quieter now, the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of a bird the only sounds accompanying them.

And as the shadows grew longer, Noor couldn't help but feel that this moment, wrapped in his shawl, held by him, was one she would never forget.

____________________________

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