Dev’s eyelids fluttered open.

His head felt unbearably heavy  as if someone was hammering inside his skull. He barely had a second to register where he was when, Splash!

A full jug of water hit his face. He jerked upright instantly, coughing, blinking water out of his eyes.

“Have you lost your mind?!” Dev barked, wiping his face.

Kashaan stood in front of him, chest rising with anger. “Oh, now your eyes opened? Your sister’s vidai is over and you’re still busy being drunk!”

Before Kashaan could say anything further, Dev’s fist landed straight across his jaw.

“You filthy jerk! Couldn’t you say it properly?” Dev snapped, standing up despite the dizziness.

Kashaan’s eyes widened in disbelief.

“Wow. I tried to help you and this is what I get? Fine. Go downstairs. Everyone’s been waiting for sending you to hell! ” he shot back angrily before storming out of the room.

Dev stood there, breathing hard. Then he ran a hand down his wet face, his head pounding worse than before. He finally looked around.

This wasn’t his room. And it definitely wasn’t the section allotted to the groom’s family.

A flicker of realization crossed his mind.

He walked out. As he descended the stairs, the atmosphere downstairs was heavy.

Everyone was already gathered, dressed for departure.

Vishakha glanced at him once, sighed, and looked away.

Shankar’s eyes held undisguised anger.

Daksh and Shivraj didn’t even look at him, they were ahead, discussing something.

Dev swallowed the lump in his throat.

Without saying a word, he walked toward the car and sat inside. When they reached home, silence followed them inside. No one spoke.

Shivraj and Preet had still not told anyone about their pregnancy. They had decided to share the news only after Nia’s pagphera. Preet didn’t want attention shifting away from Nia during her new beginning.

Everyone freshened up, exhausted beyond measure. One by one, doors closed. The house fell silent.

Evening settled quietly.

Preet stepped out into the corridor and paused.

Dev was sitting there alone. A cigarette glowed faintly between his fingers. She walked toward him.

He looked up  and immediately threw it away.

“Bhabhi… you?” he asked, slightly startled.

She sat down on the swing and gently patted the space beside her.

He obeyed silently, sitting down with his eyes lowered.

“How long have you been doing this?” she asked softly.

He gulped. “I don’t remember… just… headache,” he muttered.

His hands tightened into fists, as if he were holding something inside.

Preet looked at him for a long moment. Then she patted her lap.

Dev hesitated  then slowly leaned forward and rested his head in her lap.

She began to massage his head gently, her fingers moving slowly through his hair.

“I know you’re troubled,” she said quietly. “Otherwise our Dev was never like this. But time heals everything.”

He let out a hollow breath.

“Sometimes time makes the wound deeper, Bhabhi… especially when it comes from your own people.”

“Wounds don’t come from your own,” she replied gently. “And even if they hurt you once, they heal you with even more love. And if they don’t… then maybe they were never truly yours.”

He stayed silent for a moment.

“Can all emotions… all care… be fake?” he asked, almost like a lost child seeking reassurance.

“Sometimes what we see isn’t the truth, Dev,” she answered calmly. “It depends on which mistake we turn into a lifelong scar. Maybe it wasn’t their mistake at all. Sometimes our own misunderstandings and insecurities become our biggest enemies.”

Her hand continued moving through his hair.

“I misunderstood Shiv once too,” she added softly. “But he was never wrong. If I had the courage to listen to his side of the story… we wouldn’t have lost so much time.”

Dev listened without interrupting.

“Sometimes we claim we’re someone’s own,” she continued, “but when the time comes… we’re the first to doubt them.”

Silence settled between them.

Her words were not sharp, Not accusing, Just honest.

She looked down at him.

“Now get up and eat something. Tomorrow we have to attend Nia’s reception. Everyone’s already upset with you. So wake up early. ”

She gently nudged him to sit up.

He looked up at her, something vulnerable in his eyes.

“Are you angry with me too, Bhabhi?” His voice had lost all arrogance, it sounded almost childish.

Preet smiled softly and brushed his hair back.

“I was never angry with you, Dev. And I never will be. You’re not just my brother-in-law. You’re our friend. My companion. My brother ”

“Even if everyone else is upset with you, your Bhabhi will always stand by you. Remember? On my first day here, you promised to be my brother. Just like that… I promise to always be your shield. Your sister.”

His throat tightened.

“Thank you, Bhabhi,” he whispered.

She smiled warmly.

“Now go eat something. I’ll wake everyone else too.”

And with that, she walked away leaving him sitting there, quieter than before… but perhaps a little less alone.

Reception Day

The house was once again filled with movement.

After the emotional vidai , there was no time to slow down. Nia’s reception awaited, and with it came a new round of preparations.

Women were busy selecting outfits, matching jewelry with precision. Daksh handled logistics, gifts, and coordination. Shivraj remained composed as always, overseeing everything with quiet authority.

The house buzzed with conversations about dresses, parlour timings, makeup artists, and gift arrangements.

But Dev, He stayed Locked inside his room. Laptop open. Phone beside him. He buried himself in work, Emails,Calls and Documents.

Reception Evening

The venue was grand, glowing under golden lights. Soft music played in the background as guests filled the space with laughter and conversation.

When the Ranawat family entered, heads turned almost instinctively.

They carried elegance effortlessly, not loud, not showy, but commanding in its own way.

Shivraj walked ahead, his presence steady and unshakable. Daksh followed beside him, composed and sharp. Preet and Maya walked gracefully, their expressions warm yet dignified. Everyone entered with warm smiles.

And Dev, He walked with them.

Dressed impeccably, his aura colder than the earlier.

Rashi and Rajeev stepped forward immediately to welcome them, smiles wide and genuine.

“Welcome, welcome!” Rashi said warmly.

Raheev shook hands firmly with Shankar, Shivraj and Daksh, exchanging polite greetings.

Preet and Maya were welcomed with affection, while conversations began flowing naturally.

On the other side

Nia sat in front of the mirror, finally ready for her reception.

The soft glow of the lights reflected off her attire, making her look almost unreal , delicate, radiant, breathtaking in every sense.

Janisha stood a little behind her, watching in pure awe.

For a moment, she forgot everything else.

“Bhabhi… you look so beautiful,” she whispered, her eyes shining. “I don’t even have words for it.”

Nia smiled softly at her reflection, her cheeks tinting slightly.

Just then, the door creaked open.

Veeranshu stepped in And stopped, Completely.

His eyes locked on Nia, and for a second, he forgot how to breathe. His heartbeat picked up, loud and uneven in his own ears.

He didn’t move from the doorway, Didn’t blink, Just… stared.

Janisha noticed immediately.

She glanced between the two and smirked.

“Hmmm… someone is completely whipped,” she teased, crossing her arms.

Veeranshu let out a slow breath, placing a hand over his heart dramatically.

“You’ll be the death of me, butterfly,” he said, his voice low, eyes never leaving Nia.

Nia couldn’t help but giggle, her gaze dropping shyly.

Janisha rolled her eyes playfully. “Bas bhi kijiye aap. Let’s go, bhabhi. Someone here clearly won’t stop staring anytime soon. We’ll be late for the reception.”

Veeranshu shot her a glare.

“What?” Janisha raised a brow mischievously. “Your butterfly isn’t flying away with anyone else if you blink.”

“Janisha!” Veeranshu warned, narrowing his eyes.

Nia shook her head, smiling softly at their banter. “Janisha, go get ready. I’ll come with him.”

Janisha nodded but not before leaning down and pecking Nia’s cheek.

“Love you, bhabhi. You’re looking breathtaking,” she said warmly, then added with a grin, “And please stay safe from this Ghost.”

Before Veeranshu could respond, she darted out of the room.

He shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

But his eyes, They went back to Nia. And softened all over again.

As Nia and Veeranshu stepped out, their hands entwined, the soft hum of the reception seemed to pause for a moment.

They walked toward the stage together.

Welcomed by smiles, lights, and countless eyes.

Guests greeted them warmly, offering blessings, compliments, and laughter. The air was filled with celebration, but for Nia, everything faded into the background for a second.

Because her eyes found Her family.

Standing at a little distance.

She smiled instantly, soft, emotional, full of warmth.

Preet and Maya noticed her at the same time. Both of them waved excitedly before making their way toward her without wasting another second.

Maya reached first, her eyes scanning Nia from head to toe with exaggerated drama.

“Bas bas… humari Nia toh aaj kisi apsara se kam nahi lag rahi,” she teased, placing a hand on her hip.

(Our Nia is not looking less than an angel!)

Nia laughed lightly, shaking her head.

Preet, on the other hand, didn’t say anything at first.

She just stepped forward and pulled Nia into a gentle hug.

“Congratulations,” she whispered softly, her voice filled with affection.

Nia hugged her back tightly, her eyes closing for a brief moment,comfort settling into her heart.

When they pulled back, Preet cupped her face lightly. “Khush ho na?” she asked.

(Are you happy?")

Nia nodded, her smile genuine.

Maya turned towards Veeranshu.

“oye natwarlal meri dost ko sambhaal kar rakhna, warna!” she said narrowing her eyes like a threat. Veeranshu gave a sarcastic smile,“Don’t worry chudail, tum jaise chudail se bohot bacha kar rakhunga!”

Maya glared him back while Preet laughed at their jabbing.

Her brothers walked up to Nia, their expressions finally softening.

One of them gently patted her head, the gesture filled with quiet affection.

“How are you?” they asked, voices low, protective.

Nia smiled, answering softly, her eyes glistening just a little. Then came her another family members.

Across the hall, Dev sat at a corner .

His face was calm.

But his eyes, They betrayed him completely. They moved restlessly through the crowd, searching, scanning every corner for someone or for her.

But she wasn’t there. His jaw tightened.

Then his gaze landed on someone familiar.

Abhishek.

Dev’s eyes narrowed slightly. Instinctively, he looked around again, assuming, She must be nearby.

But she wasn’t.

A flicker of irritation crossed his face.

Without looking, he reached for a glass from a passing waiter. And the next second,The drink spilled all over him. Cold liquid soaked into his white shirt, staining his blazer.

The waiter froze in panic. “S-sir, I’m so sorry..”

Dev exhaled , dismissing him with a brief wave.

“It’s fine.”

Rashi hurried over, concern evident on her face. “I’m really sorry, beta. Please come, I’ll show you the washroom.”

He gave a short nod and walked in the direction she pointed, not bothering to think much.

But as he passed through the corridor, He heard a voice.

Muttering and Cursing that Made him stop.

.

.

.

Janisha stood in front of the mirror.Dressed in a stunning designer lehenga. Elegant and Striking.

But none of that mattered to her right now. Her focus was entirely on her neck. On the mark.

A faint bluish-red bruise was still there.

Her jaw clenched. “This bloody Dracula literally stamped his teeth on my neck,” she muttered, glaring at her reflection.

She dabbed concealer over it, trying to hide it.

Failed. She dabbed more and Tried again.

“Bloody monster, He should rot in hell,” she added under her breath, more frustrated than before.

“Should I, kitten?” The voice came from behind.

Low,Familiar and Dangerous.

She froze. Then turned sharply.

And there he was. Dev.

Leaning casually against the door.

His blazer hung in his hand. His white shirt was slightly soaked, two buttons undone, exposing just enough to make him look even more tempting  yet more dangerous.

A slow smirk played on his lips.

His eyes moved over her. From head to toe, shamelessly and Unapologetically.

“Divine,” he murmured under his breath.

Her anger spiked instantly.

“You?” she snapped. “What are you doing here?”

He tilted his head slightly, his gaze drifting to her neck.

To the mark. And his smirk deepened.

“Just checking,” he said calmly, “if I marked you properly.” Her fists clenched.

“What the hell do you think of yourself?” she shot back, pointing a finger at him. “You think this is cool?”

He pushed himself off the door and took a step closer.

“Why are you so angry, Janu?” he murmured, voice low. “I’ve marked you in far more ways before. This is nothing.”

Before she could react, his fingers brushed lightly against her hair, moving it aside, Exposing the very mark she had been trying to hide. Her breath hitched.

Her cheeks burned, With anger And something else she refused to name.

She pushed him Hard. But in a swift motion, his hands wrapped around her waist, pulling her flush against him.

Her breath caught. Her body pressed against his solid chest.

“What’s the hurry, Janu?” he murmured, tilting his head slightly.

Her frustration boiled over. “You’re insane!”

She tried to push him away again, But his grip only tightened.

“You haven’t seen even one percent of how insane I am,” he said darkly.

The smirk was gone, Completely. His face had changed Dangerously.

For a moment, Even her anger paused.

Because this Dev, This version, Was not the one she remembered.

“Leave me… and go to hell,” she snapped, her voice sharp enough to cut.

A slow, dangerous smile curved on his lips.

“Oh, my princess… of course,” he said softly, his grip tightening around her arms, almost painful. “But I’m taking you with me.”

“I hate you!” she hissed, struggling against him.

“I know,” he replied calmly, his gaze dark and unwavering. “And I’ll give you more reasons to. Because only I have the right to make you feel any emotions whether it’s hate or love!!”

Her breath hitched at his words.

“Am I right or right Janu?” his voice came as a taunt. She couldn’t think straight, the proximity, the closeness was clearly making hard for her to keep her mind straight.

And then, He let go. Just like that.

The sudden absence of his hold made her stumble back slightly. He stepped away, creating distance.

But his eyes dropped, To her arms.

Faint red marks of his hands. For a brief second, Something flickered in his expression.

Regret? Guilt?

His hands almost rose, this time softly to touch her.

Before it could settle,  She pushed him hard. He staggered a step back.

“Monster!” she spat.

And without waiting another second, She turned and walked out.

Her steps quick and Furious. The door slammed behind her. Dev stood there.

His gaze slowly dropped to his own hands. The same hands that had held her, Too tightly. His jaw clenched.

Janisha walked out, still fuming,

Only to find Abhishek standing nearby, talking on the phone. Without a second thought, she snatched it from his hand.

“Hey! Go get your own phone! Give mine back!” he protested.

“Shut up and let me talk,” she shot back, already turning the screen toward herself.

On the other side, Achint appeared, grinning widely.

“Janu! Why are you so late?” she asked.

“Got stuck with something, yaar,” Janisha replied casually.

Achint’s grin widened knowingly. “Hmm… I know, I know.”

Janisha rolled her eyes.

“What’s with that face? Tell me too!” Abhishek interrupted, trying to peek into the phone.

“Why didn’t you come?” Janisha complained instead. “I’m stuck here with this idiot. He does nothing but eat my brain.”

“Hmm… in that case, I’m safe here with my brain,” Achint laughed.

“Excuse me? I’m your only male best friend. At least show some respect!” Abhishek said dramatically.

“Earn it,” Janisha shot back without missing a beat.

Abhishek scoffed. “I swear, I hate her nature sometimes. Makes me want to strangle her.”

“Yaar, I’m missing this chaos,” Achint sighed from the other side.

Then suddenly, her expression turned mischievous.

“By the way… what about your ex?” she asked, munching on chips.

“Hey, that’s mine!” Abhishek exclaimed, from the screen to Achint as she was eating his snacks.

“Leave him,” Achint ignored him completely. “Tell me about your ex, Janu.”

Janisha’s expression hardened instantly.

“Nothing. He’s… ugh… don’t ask me about him,” she said, irritation clear in her voice.

Achint’s eyes sparkled. “That means something did happen… hmm?”

Janisha glared at her.

“Hey….wait!” Achint suddenly leaned closer to the screen. “The guy behind you… that’s your ex, right?”

Janisha glanced back briefly. Then nodded curtly.

Achint’s eyes widened.

“Damn. He’s fine. Earlier when you showed me his picture, he was handsome… but now? He’s hot too.Damn he's a walking hottie.”

“Don’t you have any shame?” Abhishek snapped, snatching the phone. “Saying all this in front of me?”

Janisha shot Achint an equally annoyed look.

“What?” Achint shrugged innocently. “I’m just appreciating God’s finest creation. He’s really something yaar. Does he has any brother by chance?”

“Seriously… it’s a good thing you didn’t come,” Janisha muttered. Abhishek nodded in agreement.

Achint gasped dramatically, pretending to be offended.

“Yeah, right! Look at her, eyes glued left, right, everywhere except in front of her. Doesn’t she see anyone else? Flirting with other guys like this?” Abhishek added, deliberately blocking part of the screen.

Achint pressed her lips together, trying not to smile.

A faint blush crept onto her cheeks.

“Well, I don’t see anyone,” she replied smoothly. “If someone was standing right, left or in front of me, he would’ve come and proposed by now.”

Her tone was light. Almost careless.

As if she didn’t realize what she was saying. Or who might be listening.

“Ugh, you two are impossible,” Janisha muttered, turning away.

She walked off, shaking her head slightly.

Because she knew one thing very clearly,

No matter what happened…Those two would never confront each other.