Shivay pushed the files aside, shut down his laptop, slipped it into his bag, and picked up his coat. With his usual composed and precise manner, he stepped out of the cabin. There was fatigue in his stride... but like every night, he had wrapped up everything right on time-driven by habit more than anything else.
At Rajbhandari Mansion
Post-dinner moments were unfolding in the hall. The entire family sat together, sharing lighthearted laughter with a young girl. The mood was warm, the conversations easy and affectionate.
“So, how was the trip, sweetheart?” Maanvi asked gently, her tone laced with love.
“It went really well, Mom.” The girl replied with a small, practiced smile. Her voice was cheerful... but her eyes told a different story.
“And Parth, you made sure she was well taken care of, right?” Maanvi turned to the young man standing beside her.
“Yes ma'am, I did.” Parth answered politely.
Just then, the sound of footsteps echoed near the entrance.
Shivay had returned from the office. His coat hung casually over his shoulder, his face calm as always-but his eyes missed nothing.
“Hm? Parth, Nisha... Weren't you two supposed to come back next week? how did you come so early.” There was a hint of surprise in his voice, though his tone remained firm.
“Uh, bro...” Nisha bit her lip slightly before replying, “I kind of rushed through all the places... got bored eventually... so I thought, why not come back early?”
Shivay listened, then gave a small nod with a quiet “Hmm. Alright then.”
“By the way, sir, how are you?” Parth asked suddenly.
Shivay raised a brow. “I'm fine, Parth. Why are you asking all of a sudden?”
With an innocent smile, Parth replied, “Sir... I missed you a lot.”
Without waiting for a response, he stepped forward and hugged Shivay tightly.
The entire family froze.
Eyes widened. Mouths dropped open.
Shivay pulled back slightly, startled. “Hey-what are you doing?!”
“Sorry, sir,” Parth said, his voice trembling with sincerity, “but seeing you after two months... I couldn't control my emotions.”
Shivay frowned lightly and corrected him, “It's not two months. It's been only fifty days.”
“I know... but still, sir, I really missed you.” Parth repeated, as if every word came straight from his heart.
Shivay let out a long sigh. “Alright. I'm heading to my room. Mom, please send my dinner upstairs.”
“Okay, dear.” Manvi said warmly.
Shivay climbed the stairs, disappearing toward his room.
Kitchen - a little while later
In the kitchen downstairs, Manvi was warming up dinner with her own hands, neatly arranging everything on a plate.
“Mom, what are you doing?” Nisha asked from behind.
“Nothing, sweetheart. Just taking dinner up for Shivay.” Manvi replied with a soft smile.
“Leave it, Mom. I'll take it.” Nisha offered quickly.
“But-” Manvi started.
“No buts! Come on, give it to me.” Nisha insisted, grabbing the tray without waiting.
Manvi hesitated, then nodded. “Alright... fine.”
Nisha walked toward Shivay's room with the dinner tray in hand. She knocked gently on the door.
“Come in.” came Shivay's deep voice from inside.
Nisha smiled as she stepped in, holding the tray carefully.
“Bro, your dinner.” She said sweetly.
“Yeah, place it on the table.” Shivay replied without looking up-his eyes still glued to his laptop screen.
Nisha silently set the tray down on the table... and then, without asking, slowly sat beside him.
“Seriously, bro, you're always working! Can't you just take out a little time for yourself? Spend some time with us too.” Nisha pouted adorably.
Shivay looked up for a brief second, then turned his eyes back to his laptop screen. “Look, Nishu... I have a lot of work right now. Please don't disturb me.”
Nisha folded her hands in mock pleading, but she didn't back down. “But bro, at least eat something first!”
Shivay let out a deep sigh, the kind you make when you're losing to a stubborn yet innocent child. “Not now. Let me check a few urgent mails first... then I'll eat. Now go to your room and get some rest.”
But Nisha wasn't going anywhere.
In full-on stubborn mode, she declared, “I'm not leaving until you eat!”
Shivay raised his hands in defeat. “Okay, okay. Fine.”
He quietly closed his laptop, stood up, and walked into the washroom to wash his hands. When he returned and sat by the table, Nisha's face lit up with a victorious smile, watching him like she'd just won a war.
Shivay picked up his spoon and began eating silently. He didn't say a word-but that tiny smile tugging at the corner of his lips? It said everything.
Tough in front of the world. But when it came to his little sister... he was soft. Always.
“You know what... you're always so busy,” Nisha said, resting her elbow on the table and leaning her chin into her palm. “One day, when you get married, your wife is going to fix you!”
Shivay let out a small laugh and shook his head. “Well, that's never happening. I'm not getting married. It's just a waste of time.”
Nisha narrowed her eyes playfully. “But the day a girl walks into your life... you won't even know what hit you. You'll forget everything-your meetings, your files, even your breath. Time will stop. And when she's around, you'll just stare into her eyes like nothing else matters. You won't be able to stop thinking about her. And your rude, stone-cold attitude? It'll turn into something softer... into love. And you won't even realize when it happens.”
Shivay stared at her in disbelief. “How do you even come up with this stuff, huh? What do you know about love anyway? You're still too young for that.”
Nisha smirked and gave him a playful shrug. “Maybe I'm younger, but I'm 24 now, okay? Not a kid. And when it comes to love... I know way more than you.”
Shivay raised an eyebrow. “Is that so? Even if some girl like that does come into my life, I'll keep my distance. I don't even want to think about love. Love is nothing but a weakness.”
Nisha gave him a knowing smile. “We'll see, bro. The day you fall in love... I promise I'll be the first one to love that girl even more than you do. No matter what you say, I'll always take her side.”
Shivay pushed his plate aside with a sigh. “Oh really? Anyway, I'm done eating. Now go rest.”
Nisha stood up, brushing her hair back. “Fine... but don't leave for the office early tomorrow morning.”
“Why not?” He asked.
“Because we're going to the temple,” she said with a small smile. “It's the first Monday of Sawan, remember? And Mom said she wants to do a special prayer... for a someone 'Avi'.”
Shivay gave a small nod. “Ah... right, okay.”
“Alright then, good night, bro!” Nisha chirped as she walked toward her room.
“Good night.” Shivay replied, his voice a little softer now.
Nisha disappeared into her room, her heart light. A few minutes later, she picked up her phone and texted her boyfriend, her face glowing with quiet happiness. And then, still smiling... she drifted off to sleep.
Next morning - 6:00 AM
The early morning breeze was cool and quiet when Shivay opened his eyes. Even in sleep, his face carried that same stoic calm. Without a word, he got up, showered, got dressed, and came downstairs-perfectly put together, just like always.
As he reached the living room, he found the entire family bustling around, preparing for the temple visit. Plates were beautifully arranged, the scent of incense wafted through the air, and excitement lit up every face.
“Good morning, bro!” Nisha greeted him with a bright smile.
“Morning, Nishu.” He replied with a faint curve of his lips.
Nisha's gaze landed on his outfit-formal office wear, crisp and classic.
“Bro, again with the office clothes? Don't you own anything traditional?” She asked, mock annoyance in her tone.
“What's wrong with this? Anyway, I'll head straight to the office after the puja.” Shivay said, his expression unchanged.
“Alright, everyone let's go. We're running late.” Manvi said, balancing a pooja thali in her hands.
They all got into the car and drove toward the Pashupatinath Temple. The roads were calm, but their minds buzzed with thoughts unspoken.
Soon, they arrived at the temple. Thanks to VIP access, they were ushered in swiftly and began the rituals.
Shivay, however, stayed near the temple gate. He had no intention of going in. His eyes watched his family, but his mind... it was elsewhere.
“Shivay, come inside.” Manvi called out to him.
“No, Mom. I'm fine here.” He replied coldly.
“We kept this puja for Avi. You won't even come for her?” Her voice softened, laced with emotion.
He paused. A quiet second passed before he sighed deeply and said-
“Fine... Just for her.”
He stepped into the temple, standing silently as the others performed the rituals for Avi. His presence was quiet-neither fully devoted, nor completely detached.
After the puja ended, everyone took the prasad-everyone except Shivay.
“Mom, I've got a call coming in. I'll just step outside to take it.” He said.
“Alright.” Manvi nodded, her eyes understanding more than she let on.
Shivay was on a business call, his eyes fixed on the screen as he briskly walked out of the temple. But then-
Thud.
He bumped into someone.
The girl stumbled, almost about to fall-until Shivay instinctively reached out, catching her by the wrist and supporting her waist in one swift motion.
Her face was hidden behind the folds of her scarf, but her eyes... they trembled.
And then, slowly, she pulled the fabric away.
In that moment-
Shivay's gaze met with hers.
Golden morning sunlight streamed around them, the air still crisp, and for a second, the world quieted down-like time itself paused to watch.
Her hazel eyes, soft face, and trembling lips... for a heartbeat, Shivay forgot the call, forgot the temple, forgot everything.
“U-Um... excuse me,” her voice came out hesitant, barely a whisper. “Would you mind letting go?”
It snapped him out of the trance.
“Oh... sorry,” He murmured, letting her go and stepping back quietly.
But his gaze lingered a moment longer.
The girl adjusted her saree with grace and then offered him a soft smile. “Thank you... for saving me from falling. By the way, I'm Advika Shakya.”
She extended her hand for a handshake-gentle, polite.
But Shivay?
He didn't say a word. Didn't even glance at her. Still talking on the phone, he walked away as if nothing had happened.
Advika blinked, surprised.
“Well... that was rude,” She muttered under her breath. “Didn't even shake hands. Whatever. Not like I care.”
Rolling her eyes, she turned toward the temple. “Ugh, it's already this crowded?”
With a sigh, she made her way inside.
A few minutes later, Shivay ended the call. His steps slowed, but his thoughts hadn't. Those eyes... that innocent face-they still lingered in his mind.
Without a word, he too stepped inside the temple.
“Mom, can we go now?” Shivay asked, slipping his phone into his pocket, that familiar hint of boredom in his voice—one that always came up when the word temple was mentioned.
Maanvi smiled sweetly. “Not yet. First, go inside and take Lord Shiva’s blessings.”
Shivay shifted awkwardly. “But, Mom…”
“No buts.” She said, giving him the look—the kind that meant he better listen, or else.
Reluctantly, Shivay sighed and walked into the temple.
Inside, he knelt down for the puja. Right beside him, completely unaware of his presence, sat Advika—her eyes closed in prayer, her face calm, glowing softly in the morning light.
As if led by fate, both of them bowed down at the same time, their heads lowering in unison to offer their respect to Lord Shiva.
And just then—
A single white flower dropped from the deity’s idol… landing gently on both their hands.
The priest noticed and beamed. “Ah! Lord Shiva himself has blessed you both. Such a beautiful pair—may your bond last forever!”
Advika’s eyes flew open. “W-What? No, Mr priest! There’s a misunderstanding. We don’t even know each other!”
The priest chuckled kindly. “No problem, dear. Perhaps Lord Shiva knows something you two don’t. Here—take the prasad, both of you.”
He handed it to them before either could object.
Shivay, ever the stoic, didn’t say a word. He quietly walked out of the temple, expression unreadable, and handed the prasad to his sister, Nisha.
“Wait, isn’t this for you?” Nisha asked, surprised.
“I don’t eat this stuff.” Shivay replied curtly.
Nisha rolled her eyes. “Fine then.”
And with a dramatic shrug, she popped the prasad into her mouth with a grin.
“More blessings for me, I guess.”
“Umm, bro… can we go home now?” Nisha asked softly, glancing around. The temple courtyard was almost empty now—everyone else had already left.
Shivay checked his watch and then looked at her. “Yeah, let’s go. I’ll drop you home first, then head straight to the office.”
A few minutes later, all three of them were seated in the car.
“By the way, Parth,” Nisha said suddenly, her voice carrying that innocent curiosity, “I noticed you didn’t take the prasad at the temple. Why?”
There was a brief pause before Parth replied, “Because I’m fasting today.”
“What?” Nisha’s eyes widened. “Fasting? Boys fast too? That’s new to me!”
Parth smiled, eyes still fixed on the road ahead. “Yes, ma’am. We do.”
“Oh really? And who’s this fast for?” Nisha asked with a playful glint in her eyes, clearly teasing.
Parth stayed silent for a second… then answered, “For your safety. For all of you.”
But in his heart, his gaze drifted to the rearview mirror—
To the girl sitting quietly in the backseat.
“And for you too, ma’am...You don’t love me…But I do.”
Nisha nodded, unaware of the storm behind those calm eyes. “Oh… that’s sweet.”
“Yes, ma’am.” Parth repeated quietly.
As soon as the car began to slow down near the gates, Nisha leaned forward, her voice soft but filled with a stubborn spark.
“By the way, bro… you should assign me a bodyguard.”
Shivay raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. “Why? Parth’s always with you, isn’t he?”
Nisha pouted, crossing her arms. “Yeah, but he’s your bodyguard, not mine! And he’s your assistant too!”
Shivay let out a sigh, shaking his head. “So what?”
“So nothing. I just want my own bodyguard. Period.” She stated firmly, like it was non-negotiable.
Shivay rolled his eyes in defeat. “Fine… I’ll look into a female bodyguard for you.”
“Okay!” Nisha beamed, clearly pleased with her little victory.
The car came to a gentle stop in front of the mansion gates. Shivay and Parth helped her out, and then the two men drove off toward the office.
Rajbhandari Industrial – Later
The car pulled into the sleek portico of Rajbhandari Industrial Headquarters. Parth stepped out first and opened the door for Shivay, who got out with his usual composed intensity.
“Parth,” Shivay said, striding ahead without missing a beat, “Some new employees are joining today. Make sure you brief them properly.”
“Yes, sir.” Parth replied with a crisp nod.
Shivay walked straight into the building, making his way toward his cabin where his second assistant was already waiting—files in hand.
“Good morning, sir.” The assistant greeted politely.
“Morning.” Shivay replied curtly, not even bothering to look up.
“Sir, these are a few files that need your signature.” The assistant said, holding the stack out.
“Alright, place them on the table. I’ll go through them.” Shivay instructed, settling into his chair.
One by one, he picked up the files, eyes sharp and focused. The pen glided through the papers effortlessly, each signature landing like the final stamp on a judgment—precise and unshakable.
“By the way, how many meetings do I have today?” He asked, still not lifting his gaze.
“Just two, sir. One at noon and the second at 3 PM.” The assistant answered quickly.
There was a pause… then Shivay spoke again, casually but with purpose.
“I’ve been thinking about you.”
The assistant blinked in surprise. “Me, sir?”
Shivay looked up for the first time, meeting his eyes directly.
“My factory in Pokhara… I want you to move there. We need a product manager. You’re perfect for the post.”
“But sir, who will handle things here? Parth sir hasn’t even—”
“Who said he’s not here?” Shivay interrupted, his tone calm but commanding.
“Step outside the cabin. He’s out there assist the new employee.”
“Really?” the assistant smiled, relief evident in his tone. “Then I’d be honored to take the transfer, sir.”
“Good. Head home today and start packing. You leave tomorrow, Mr. Abhir Gautam.” Shivay said—firm, but not unkind.
“Yes sir! I’ll head home now.” Abhir replied with excitement, already gathering the files from the table.
After saying that, Abhir left for home.
A while later, Shivay made his way toward the meeting room for his next appointment. Time flew like it had wings. By the time both meetings wrapped up, he was visibly exhausted. He returned to his cabin with a weary sigh and dropped into his chair, leaning back against it.
Just then—
Knock knock.
A soft knock echoed from the cabin door.
“Come in,” Shivay said, without lifting his eyes from the file in front of him.
The door creaked open, and Parth walked in, holding a beautifully designed invitation card in his hand.
“Sir, it’s a birthday invitation… from Mr. Thapa. It’s his daughter’s birthday,” Parth said calmly.
“When’s the party?” Shivay asked, his tone still strictly professional.
“Tomorrow evening, sir,” Parth replied.
“Alright. Take care of the gift.” Shivay said, his eyes still fixed on the files scattered across the table.
“Sure, sir.” Parth nodded.
“You can go now. Make sure the new employees understand their tasks.” Shivay added.
“No need for that, sir. I’ve already briefed everyone,” Parth said with a small smile. “Also, it’s almost 7 PM. Office hours are over and most of the staff has already left.”
“Ohh… I didn’t even check the time,” Shivay muttered, rubbing his forehead.
“Sir, you should head home too now.” Parth said gently.
“Alright. Go get the car. I’ll be down in a minute.” Shivay replied.
“Yes, sir.” Parth said and left the cabin.
A few minutes later, the sound of the car engine echoed in the parking lot. Parth waited by the driver’s side as Shivay stepped out of the building.
And just like that, the two—Shivay Rajbhandari and his shadow, Parth—headed home to the Rajbhandari Mansion, the city lights casting long shadows behind them.
At Rajbhandari Mansion
Nisha was sprawled on her bed, casually scrolling through her phone, when a thought suddenly struck her.
Oh no! My chocolate! I left it in the fridge!
Without wasting a second, she jumped off the bed and hurried to the kitchen, yanking open the fridge and searching frantically.
“Huh!? Where’s my chocolate? I’m sure I left it right here!” She muttered under her breath.
Just then, the kitchen door swung open and Aarav walked in.
“Nisha sister, what are you looking for?” He asked with innocent curiosity.
“I… I had kept my chocolate in the fridge, but now it’s missing.” Nisha replied.
“Oh really? I had kept my ice cream here too. Let me check.” Aarav said, leaning in.
“Sure, look.” Nisha said, opening the door wider for him.
A few seconds later—
“Huh!? My ice cream is gone too!” Aarav exclaimed, eyes wide.
“What!? Your ice cream is missing, my chocolate is missing… so where did both go?” Nisha asked, suspicion lacing her tone.
Aarav’s gaze shifted toward the dining table, and a knowing smirk spread across his face.
“Nisha sister… just look over there. Our chocolate and ice cream thief is enjoying them like it’s a feast.”
Nisha turned her head—
“Rishi… YOU!” She shouted, her voice sharp with mock anger.
Both of them stormed toward the dining table.
“What happened, Sister? Why are you yelling?” Rishi asked, feigning innocence.
“What happened? You stole my chocolate and Aarav’s ice cream—why?” Nisha narrowed her eyes at him.
“When did I steal them? I just saw them in the fridge and picked them up.” Rishi shrugged.
“Picked them up!? Sis, did you hear what he just said?” Aarav complained.
“Shut up, Little one!” Rishi shot back.
“Why should Aarav shut up? You shut up! And today… you’re not getting away!” Nisha said, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
“What do you mean by that, sister?” Rishi asked, suddenly nervous.
“Oh, nothing… you’ll see.” Nisha replied, signaling to Aarav.
Aarav dashed off and returned with a stick in one hand and a broom in the other.
Rishi’s eyes went wide in horror—then, without another word, he bolted out of the kitchen.
Behind him, Nisha charged with the stick while Aarav followed with the broom, both laughing and yelling as the chase began.
“Stop right there!” Nisha snapped, her eyes narrowing in warning.
“No, sister! If I stop… you’ll hit me.” Rishi replied, voice dripping with mock fear, though a mischievous smile played on his lips.
The next second, Aarav and Nisha exchanged a quick look—and without wasting another moment, they charged after him. Within seconds, they had him cornered, delivering light, harmless smacks that had him laughing and trying to dodge.
That’s when the sound of fast footsteps echoed from outside—Shivay and Parth had arrived. The commotion drew the rest of the family, one by one, into the room.
“What’s going on here?” Shivay’s brows furrowed as he scanned the scene.
“Brother! You’re here! Look at this Rishi—he ate my chocolate and Aarav’s ice cream!” Nisha complained, her voice full of indignation.
“So what? It’s just chocolate and ice cream. Buy new ones.” Shivay shrugged casually.
“Exactly, bro!” Rishi immediately agreed.
“Shut up, Rishi!” Nisha shot him a glare.
“Alright, alright… why are you getting so worked up, sister?” Rishi muttered, pulling a face.
“Enough, you three. And you—Rishi! Did you really steal the chocolate and ice cream?” Manvi’s tone was firm.
“Well… actually…” Rishi’s head dipped in guilt.
“Forget it. And Nisha, you’re older than Rishi—let this go now. Come on, dinner’s ready.” Manvi concluded.
“Fine,” Nisha replied reluctantly.
“Shivay, you go change too.” Manvi instructed.
“Alright, Mom.” Shivay said with a faint smile, heading to his room.
Meanwhile, Nisha, Rishi, and Aarav bickered their way to the dining table. Moments later, Shivay joined them, and the whole family sat down to eat in peace. Once dinner was over, everyone retreated to their rooms.
Next Morning – Advika’s House
The breakfast table was warm with chatter, clinking cups, and the faint aroma of fresh parathas. But Advika sat quietly in her chair, her eyes downcast, barely touching the food on her plate.
“What’s wrong, Advika? You look sad.” The lady of the house asked gently, concern softening her voice.
Advika hesitated before replying, her tone low. “It’s just… I was thinking about my mom and dad. I miss them.”
“Oh, sweetheart,” The lady’s expression melted into a tender smile. “Aren’t I like your mother too? Come on, open your mouth—I’ll feed you myself.”
“But… aunty—” Advika began, unsure.
“No buts,” She cut in warmly. “Now, open up.”
“Okay… aunty.” Advika gave in softly.
The lady began feeding her with motherly affection, and Advika didn’t resist. Sitting beside them, Veer and Payal exchanged a knowing smile, but stayed quiet.
Then, Payal broke the silence. “By the way, Advika, it’s my friend’s birthday today. She invited me to her party. You’re coming with me—don’t you dare say no.”
Advika blinked, surprised. “Oh… okay. But when?”
“This evening,” Payal replied without missing a beat.
“Alright, I’ll come.”
“And me?” Veer asked quickly, leaning forward with interest.
“You’ll stay home—with Mom.” Payal shot back immediately.
Veer frowned. “That’s not fair!”
“It’s fair . Now, finish your breakfast and go get ready for work,” Payal said firmly.
“Fine…” Veer muttered in defeat.
Once breakfast was over, Veer left for the office. Time slipped away, and soon evening rolled around. Payal and Advika stepped out of their room, dressed for the party.
“Wow! You both look absolutely stunning,” the lady said proudly. “May no evil eye fall on you.”
“Mom, come on… who’s going to cast an evil eye on us anyway?” Payal said excitedly. “Advika, you take some pictures of me with your camera, okay?”
“Alright, I’ll grab the camera.” Advika replied with a soft smile and went to fetch it.
A few moments later, she returned with the camera.
“Okay, Payal, let’s get started.” Advika said, lifting the camera.
Advika clicked picture after picture of Payal, capturing her in all her excited, playful poses. Once done, she gently set the camera down.
“Now, let’s take some selfies with Mom!” Payal suggested.
“Sure,” Advika agreed, leaning in.
They clicked a few fun selfies together, laughing at their own silly faces.
“Advika, it’s time. We should get going now. Mom, take care of yourself… and Veer should be home any minute. We better head out,” Payal said, picking up her bag.
“Okay, dears.” the lady said with a warm smile, waving them off.
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