Next morning, before their rigorous training session, everyone gathered together in the common area. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a soft glow through the windows.

Vanika looked around and then turned her attention to Naina. "Naina, what happened to that patient?" she asked with a concerned expression.

Naina sighed and shook her head slightly. "He's still not well. Hosh to aa gaya hai, but thand bahot lag gayi hai," she explained, her voice tinged with worry.

[He has gained concious.]

Vanika nodded thoughtfully. "Han to hoga hi... Tu uske liye kadha bana de," she suggested, trying to be helpful.

[Make herbal tea for him.]

"Mujhe nahi aata," Naina admitted, feeling a bit helpless.

[I don't know how to prepare it.]

Vanika frowned slightly and then raised an eyebrow. "Doctor kis kaam ki hai?" she teased, though there was a hint of seriousness in her tone.

[Why are you a doctor then?]

"Mai ayurved ki doctor nahi hun," Naina defended herself, crossing her arms.

Vanika flashed a confident smile. "I will prepare kadha for him. Mai bahot talented hun," she declared proudly, already thinking of the ingredients she would need.

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

The candidates gathered at the edge of a snow-covered training ground, their breath visible in the icy air. The snowy landscape stretched out before them, a pristine yet challenging arena for their rigorous training. Senior officers Nirmay and Abhiman stood at the front, their authoritative presence commanding attention.

"Welcome to the high-altitude training camp," Nirmay began, his voice steady and clear despite the cold. "Here, you'll be pushed to your limits and beyond. This environment is as harsh as it gets, but it will prepare you for any situation."

Abhiman, a seasoned veteran with a reputation for toughness, stepped forward. "Today, we'll start with endurance drills. Running in snow is no easy task, but it's essential for building stamina and resilience. Remember, out there, conditions won't always be favourable."

"First up, a 5-kilometre run through the snow," Abhiman announced. "Pair up and keep an eye on your partner. Safety is paramount, but so is pushing yourself. Let's move!"

The candidates quickly paired up and began their run. The snow crunched underfoot, each step requiring extra effort as their feet sank into the icy ground. Vanika, paired with Sakshi, set a steady pace, both focused and determined.

"Bhaii meri to kulfi jam rahi hai!!” Sakshi said , running with Vanika.

Ahead, Ishana and Pratha pushed through the snow, their breaths coming in short bursts.

Nearby, Malini and Nitya supported each other through the challenging terrain.

Aditya, running solo after ensuring everyone was paired, kept a close eye on the group's progress. He had a knack for observing and offering support where needed.

After the run, the candidates returned to the training area, panting and flushed from the exertion. Nirmay and Abhiman were waiting.

"Good job, everyone," Nirmay commended. "Next, we move on to strength training. You'll be carrying logs through the snow, working in teams to build trust and cooperation. This will test your physical strength and your ability to work together."

The candidates split into teams, each team given a heavy log to carry through an obstacle course of snowdrifts and icy patches. Vanika and Sakshi teamed up with Pratha and Ishana, while Malini and Nitya joined Aditya and a few others.

"Lift on three," Ishana instructed her team. "One, two, three!"

The team hoisted the log onto their shoulders, muscles straining under the weight. They navigated through the obstacles, communicating and adjusting their movements to maintain balance.

"Bhai dekh ke chalo itni jaldi kya hai sabko" Ishana called out as they approached a particularly icy patch. "Take your step slowly and steadily."

In the other team, Malini took the lead. "Keep it level," she instructed. "If one side drops, it’ll throw everyone off."

Aditya, bringing up the rear, offered encouragement. "We're almost there. Just a few more steps."

After completing the course, the teams set their logs down, muscles aching but spirits high. Nirmay and Abhiman gathered them once more.

"You've done well today," Abhiman said, a rare smile touching his lips. "But remember, this is just the beginning. The real test lies in consistency and perseverance."

Nirmay nodded in agreement. "Tomorrow, we'll focus on survival skills in this environment. For now, rest and recover. You've earned it."

The candidates dispersed, exhaustion mixing with a sense of accomplishment. As they headed back to their tents, the snowy landscape seemed a little less daunting, a witness to their growing strength and unity.

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

After the grueling training session, Vanika made her way to the patient tent with a steaming cup of kadha in her hands. Inside, the tent was warm and filled with the soft, earthy aroma of the herbal concoction. Harshit, the patient, lay on the cot, looking much better than he had the previous day. He smiled as Vanika entered.

"You are Vanika, right?" he asked, his voice still a bit weak but filled with gratitude.

"Haan. This is kadha, for you," Vanika replied, handing him the cup.

Harshit took the kadha with a grateful nod. "Thank you."

Vanika nodded back. "I am Harshit, by the way," he added, trying to sit up a bit.

"Nice to meet you, Harshit," Vanika replied with a smile.

Harshit sipped the kadha and sighed with relief. "That doctor told me that you are the one who saved my life. Thank you so much for that. I will be forever grateful."

Vanika's smile widened, a hint of pride in her eyes. "It's ok. As an IPS officer, it's my duty."

"You are so sweet," Harshit said sincerely, making Vanika smile slightly.

"Alright, aap rest kijiye," Vanika said, her professional demeanour returning. She turned and left the tent, closing the flap gently behind her.

Outside, she found Naina waiting for her. "De diya kadha?" Naina asked.

"Haan... pata chala uska naam Harshit hai," Vanika replied.

[You know his name is Harshit?]

Naina raised an eyebrow. "To mai kya karun? Naam badal dun uska? Ya apna naam Harshita rakh lun?" she asked, earning a smack from Vanika.

[So what should I do? Should I change his name or change my name as Harshita.?]

“ I was just telling." Vanika said, shrugging her shoulders.

"No need. I already know that," Naina said.

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

At night, everyone gathered outside on chairs around a fire pit. The snow glistened under the moonlight, and the lights from the tents cast a warm, inviting glow. The atmosphere was relaxed, with laughter and chatter filling the air.

"Harshit ko toh bula lo dinner ke liye," Vanika suggested, glancing towards the patient tent.

[Call Harshit for dinner.]

"Who is this Harshit?" Nirmay asked, raising his eyebrows in curiosity.

"Arre, that man jisse ham lekar aaye hain," Naina explained.

"Ohh..." Nirmay responded, his curiosity piqued.

"I should call him," Vanika said, standing up and walking towards the tent.

A few minutes later, Vanika returned with Harshit, who joined the group. The conversation flowed easily, everyone enjoying the camaraderie. Nirmay, however, noticed Harshit frequently glancing at Vanika with a smile, and felt a twinge of jealousy and possessiveness. He clutched his spoon tightly and cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention.

"Vaise Harshit," he began, his voice carrying an edge, "when will you return back to your home? I mean, your family must be worried and tumhari wife bhi tumhe miss kar rahi hogi."

[Your wife must be missing you.]

Harshit looked up, slightly surprised. "Sir, meri wife nahi hai."

Ishana, full of sympathy, asked, "So sad! Kab death hui unki?"

"Arre... I mean I don't have any wife. Meri shadi nahi hui," Harshit clarified, smiling awkwardly.

Nirmay, his jealousy thinly veiled, responded quickly, "To kar lo na." He forced a smile. "I mean, shadi jaldi hi kar leni chahiye, otherwise people will say ki dulha budha dikh raha hai."

[Then do it..I mean we should get married early.]

"Nirmay, tu ye aunties jaise kyun baat kar raha hai?" Abhiman asked, curiously.

[Why are you talking like aunties?]

"Arre... I was just saying," Nirmay said, shrugging his shoulders, trying to play it off casually.

Harshit chuckled. "Kar lunga shadi bhi, sir," he said, glancing at Vanika. "Pehle koi acchi ladki to mil jaye."

[I will get married, but I should get a girl first.]

Nirmay took a deep breath, his jealousy flaring again. "Haan to mil jayegi, udhar kya dekh rahe ho!" he snapped, trying to mask his irritation with a light-hearted tone.

[You will get a girl but why are you looking there?]

"Ji?" Harshit asked, slightly taken aback.

"When will you return back?" he asked again, his voice tight.

"Abhi he is not fully recovered. Time lagega. At least one week," Naina interjected, sensing Nirmay’s impatience.

"Ye abhi aur rahega!!" Nirmay muttered under his breath.

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

The training academy buzzes with activity as everyone gathers for lunch after a rigorous morning session. The cafeteria is filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation as trainees fuel up for the rest of the day.

Vanika glanced around the table, her eyes landing on Harshit’s plate, which was now empty. She noticed his hopeful look as he sat quietly, not wanting to ask for more.

“Harshit, roti chahiye?" She asked.

[Do you need roti?]

Harshit looked up, his face lighting up with a smile. “Haan, just one more.” He replied, gratitude evident in his voice.

From across the table, Nirmay watched the exchange with a growing sense of irritation. He clenched his jaw, his mind swirling with jealousy.

“Kitna khayega petu aadmi,” he muttered to himself, his eyes narrowing at Harshit.

[How much will he eat!]

Nirmay’s brooding did not go unnoticed. Abhiman, sitting beside him, raised an eyebrow and smirked.

“Tu aise sada muh shakl bana ke kya kha raha,” he teased, nudging Nirmay with his elbow.

[Why are you sulking?]

Nirmay shot him a glare, his irritation palpable.

“Aisi hi hai meri shakal to,” he retorted, his voice laced with annoyance.

Vanika, meanwhile, had caught a glimpse of Nirmay’s sullen expression. She frowned slightly, puzzled by his demeanour.

“Inhe kya hua aise subah se karele ke papa jaise shakl banaye kyun phir rahe!” She thought to herself, trying to make sense of Nirmay’s unusually sour mood.

[What's wrong with him, why are they walking around with a face like He had been eating bitter gourd since morning?]

As Vanika handed the roti to Harshit, he took it with a small blush.

“Thank you Vanika, you are actually too good,” he said softly, his cheeks tinged with a faint pink. This innocent comment only fueled Nirmay’s jealousy further, and he felt a surge of anger.

Struggling to contain his frustration, Nirmay suddenly snapped, his voice cold and commanding. “Khane khate time baat nahi karna chahiye. Ye ghar nahi training academy ka part hai, yaha discipline maintain kar ke rehna hoga.”

[We shouldn't talk while eating. This isn't just a home, it's part of a training academy, so we need to maintain discipline here.]

Harshit’s face fell, and he quickly apologised. “Sorry sir,” he mumbled, lowering his gaze to his plate.

Vanika glanced at Nirmay again, her confusion deepening. She couldn’t understand what had triggered such a harsh reaction from him.

Eventually, they all finished their food, the clinking of cutlery coming to a halt. The cadets began to rise from the table, one by one, heading off to their next training session. Vanika lingered for a moment, her eyes following Nirmay as he walked away, still lost in her thoughts about his sudden change in behaviour.

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

As the evening sets in, Harshit and Vanika arrive together discussing something.

“Harshit aao na, yahi baitho, andar bore ho rahe hoge na akele.” Aditya said warmly, guiding Harshit to a comfortable chair under the shade of a tree.

[Harshit, come on, sit here with us. You must be getting bored inside alone.]

Harshit nodded gratefully and sat down, but Nirmay, who had been watching the scene unfold from a distance, couldn’t hide his irritation. He stepped forward, his brows furrowed.

"Yahan kyun laayi? Andar baitha to tha," Nirmay snapped, a tinge of jealousy creeping into his voice as he glared at Harshit.

[Why did you bring him here? He was sitting inside.]

Vanika turned to Nirmay, "Arre, kya baitha tha.…wo bechara Shant hai kuch bolta nahi, iska matlab ye thodi hai ki wo bore nahi ho raha hoga," she replied, shaking her head and she excused herself as she got Piyali's call.

[ Oh, what was he doing inside? He's quiet and doesn't say much, but that doesn't mean he's not getting bored.]

Harshit, watching her retreating figure, couldn’t help but smile. "Vanika mere dil ki baat kitne achhe se samajhti hai na," he said softly, a dreamy expression on his face as he turned to Nirmay.

[Vanika understand me so well.]

Nirmay’s jaw tightened. "Isme dil ki baat samajhne wali baat kahan se aa gayi? Main bhi hota to samajh jata," he retorted, his voice barely concealing his anger. He felt a mix of jealousy and frustration, feeling like he was losing ground to Harshit.

[Where did this understanding of heart-to-heart come from? Even I would have understood if I were in his place.]

"Nahi sir, aap samajh nahi rahe hain. Wo alag hi connection hai," Harshit explained, his voice filled with a serene happiness. The way he spoke about Vanika, with such genuine affection, only made Nirmay’s jealousy burn hotter.

[You won't understand. It's a different connection.]

"It's all rubbish!" Nirmay muttered, his temper flaring.

Harshit shifted nervously, finally breaking the silence. "Sach kahun sir, mujhe Vanika se pyaar ho gaya hai," he confessed, his voice earnest and filled with a mix of hope and anxiety. "Soch raha hun jane se pehle propose kar dun aur uske parents se bhi baat kar lunga agar wo maan jayegi to."

[To be honest, I fell in love with her. I am thinking to propose her and talk to my family if she agrees.]

Nirmay's expression darkened, a storm brewing in his eyes. His hands clenched into fists at his sides as he struggled to keep his anger in check. The audacity of Harshit’s words struck him like a blow.

"How dare you," Nirmay spat, his voice low and dangerous. "She is my—" He wanted to say "fiance," to lay claim to the bond he shared with Vanika, but his words were cut short.

Without waiting for a response or even acknowledging Nirmay's rising fury, Harshit turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Nirmay seething in silence. The air between them crackled with unspoken words and unresolved tension.

Nirmay’s chest heaved with suppressed rage as he watched Harshit’s retreating figure. "She is my fiance," he whispered to himself, the words bitter on his tongue.

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

After dinner, Nirmay sat alone, sulking as he watched Vanika talking with Harshit, who was eagerly looking at something on her phone. His frustration simmered just beneath the surface. After a while, Vanika approached him, her face lit with excitement.

"Why are you sitting alone? Chaliye na, sab baith ke baatein kar rahe hain mere tent mein," Vanika said, trying to coax him into joining the group.

[Come on, everyone is sitting and chatting in my tent.]

"Mera man nahi hai...tum jao," he replied sternly, avoiding her eyes.

[I don't have mood.]

Vanika looked at him for a few seconds, then sat down beside him. Nirmay glanced at her, surprised.

"Why are you sitting here? Tumhe jana nahi hai?" he asked, his tone softening a bit.

"Mera bhi man nahi hai," she said, meeting his gaze.

[I also don't have any mood.]

Nirmay felt his irritation melt away. "Nirmay, what happened? Is there any problem? Aap gussa hain mujhse? Koi galti hui hai mujhse?" she asked, her concern touching his heart.

[Are you upset with me? Did I do something wrong?]

He cupped her cheek, smiling gently. "Kuch nahi hua...chalte hain," he said.

"Aapka man nahi hai to it's ok. Hum dono yahi baith te hain," she said, leaning her head on his shoulder and holding his arm.

[If you don't feel like it, it's okay. Let's just sit here together.]

"Tumhara to man hai na? Aur tumhara man hai to mera kaise nahi hoga. Chalo," he said, standing up. They walked together to Vanika's tent, where the rest of the group was gathered.

[If you're up for it, then why wouldn't I be? Let's go.]

"Aao, baatein karte hain," Naina said, waving them over.

[Let's talk.]

"Sara din wahi to karti rehti ho," Nirmay remarked with a playful grin.

[You does the same everytime.]

"We're planning to tell horror stories," Naina said excitedly.

"What?? Horror kyun?" Abhiman and Nirmay asked in unison, their expressions showing mild apprehension.

"Kyun? Are you both scared?" Vanika teased, raising an eyebrow.

"O... of course not!" Nirmay quickly said, trying to sound confident.

"Haan, we are IPS training commanders, aisi cheezon pe believe nahi karte," Abhiman added with a nervous smile.

[We don't believe these things.]

"To baithiye," Vanika said, gesturing for them to sit.

"Vanika, we will start from you," Ishana said, prompting Vanika to grin mischievously.

"Haan, to suno..." she began, then whispered in an eerie tone, "Kali andheri raat thi."

[It was a dark night.]

Nirmay interrupted, frowning slightly. "Aise ajeeb si awaz me batana zaruri hai kya?"

[Is it necessary to speak in such a strange voice?]

"Arre, isse hi to maza aata hai! Tu chup reh!" Naina retorted, eager for the story to continue.

Vanika continued, "Ek kali andheri raat thi... hawayen tej chal rahi thi, poore shehar me light nahi thi... ek aadmi office se aata hai... wo apni wife ko awaz lagata hai, 'Kamini... mai aa gaya hun, tum khana lagao.' Uski wife andar se dinner lekar aati hai, 'Aap jaa ke hath muh dhul lijiye, mai lagati hun.' Wo apne mobile ki flashlight on karta hai, fresh hone ke baad wo dining area me ata hai. Uski wife usse dinner serve karti hai. 'Thank you... par tumne inverter off kyun kiya hai?' Uski wife kehti hai, 'Wo inverter kharab ho gaya hai... mai aapko call kar ke batane wali thi, tab tak aap aa gaye.' Uska pati dinner start karta hai. Dinner ke baad dono room me jate hain aur so jate hain. Phir subah hoti hai... tufan shant ho jata hai. Wo uth ta hai aur dekhta hai ki Kamini bed par nahi thi. 'Kamal hai, aaj mujhse pehle uth gayi madam,' ye kehte huye wo bed se khada hota hai... tabhi uska phone bajta hai. Wo caller ID dekhta hai, 'Kamini... ye subah subah kahan chali gayi.' Wo phone uthata hai... udhar se awaz aati hai, 'Hello, wo na kal mai mummy ke yahan ruk gayi thi... aapko call kar ke batana tha, par mausam kharab hone ki wajah se yahan network hi nahi tha. I am sorry, maine aapke liye kuch banaya nahi tha. Aap rukiye, mai raste me hun, bas pahoch ke aapke liye kuch banati hun, ok?' Ye keh ke usne phone cut kar diya. Idhar ye sab sunte hi uske hathon se phone gir gaya."

[There was a dark night... the winds were blowing fast, there was no electricity in the whole city... a man comes home from the office... he calls out to his wife, "Kamini... I'm home, please make dinner." His wife comes out with dinner, "You go wash up, I'll set the table." He turns on the flashlight on his phone, freshens up, and then comes to the dining area. His wife serves him dinner. "Thank you... but why did you turn off the inverter?" His wife says, "The inverter broke down... I was going to call and tell you, but you came home before I could." He starts eating dinner. After dinner, they both go to their rooms and sleep. Then morning comes... the storm calms down. He wakes up and sees that Kamini wasn't on the bed. "Strange, today she woke up before me," he says as he gets up from the bed... then his phone rings. He checks the caller ID, "Kamini... where did she go so early in the morning." He answers the phone... a voice comes from the other end, "Hello, you know, yesterday I stayed at my mom's place... I was going to call and tell you, but due to bad weather, there was no network here. I am sorry, I didn't make anything for you. Stay there, I'm on my way, I'll make something for you as soon as I reach, okay?" Saying this, she hangs up the phone. Hearing all this, the phone slips from his hands.]

The group sat in stunned silence for a moment, the impact of the story sinking in. The only sound was the crackling of the fire and the wind rustling the tent flaps. Everyone gulped, the eerie feeling lingering in the air.

"That was... intense," Aditya finally said, breaking the silence.

"I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight," Sakshi admitted, hugging her knees.

"Good job, Vani" Pratha said, her voice a mix of admiration and fear.

Everyone turned to look at Nirmay and Abhiman, who were clutching each other’s arms, sitting close together.

"Someone was saying that wo believe nahi karte insab pe," Vanika teased, causing them to quickly separate.

"Haan to!! We don't believe in all these. Wo to hamne brotherly hug kiya tha," Nirmay defended, trying to sound nonchalant.

"Haan haan, mera bhai," Abhiman added, giving Nirmay a side hug, and everyone burst into laughter.

"Okay, now my turn," Naina said, rubbing her hands together with excitement.

"It's enough for today. Itni raat tak jagna sahi nahi hai, officers. Go to your tents," Nirmay said in a stern voice, attempting to reassert control.

"Haan, khud jo Vani se raat 1 baje tak baat karte ho, uska kya? Jyada ban mat ab. Vaise bhi abhi to 9 hi baj rahe hain." Naina retorted.

[Yes, what about you chatting with Vani until 1 a.m.? Don't overdo it now. Anyway, it's only 9 p.m.]

"I am going to start... agar dono ne nahi suna to raat me aisa daraungi ki teeno heart attack ek sath aa jayega," Naina threatened, making everyone chuckle.

[If both of them didn't hear, then I'll scare them so much at night that all three of them will have a heart attack at once.]

After some time, everyone returned to their tents. Nirmay sat on a chair near the fire, lost in his thoughts. Abhiman joined him, noticing his troubled expression.

"What are you thinking? Kabse dekh raha hun, chehra bana hua hai tera," Abhiman asked, curious.

"Uss Harshit ke daant todne ka man ho raha hai," Nirmay said, gritting his teeth.

[I want to break the teeth of that Harshit.]

"Arre, but why?" Abhiman asked, surprised.

"Mere hi samne, mere hi fiance ko propose karne ki baat kar raha tha wo!!" Nirmay exclaimed, then recounted the entire incident to Abhiman.

[He was talking about proposing to my fiancée right in front of me.]

"Haan, to Vani konsa haan kar degi. Tujhe shaq hai uspe?" Abhiman asked, trying to calm him down.

[Yes, as if Vani will say yes just like that. Do you doubt her?]

"What are you saying! I trust her more than anything. But the matter is, how could he propose to her!! Wo usko jaa ke 'I love you' bolega!! Uska muh ma tod dun mai," Nirmay said, his frustration evident.

"Why didn't you tell him that you both are engaged?" Abhiman asked, puzzled.

"I didn't get any chance," Nirmay admitted.

"Arre, he will be rejected na... jyada mat soch!" Abhiman said, trying to reassure him.

"Tujhe nahi samajh ayega. I can't imagine anyone else saying 'I love you' to her... aur wo bhi jab maine hi nahi kaha ho," Nirmay said, his voice heavy with emotion.

[You won't understand. I can't imagine anyone else saying 'I love you' to her... especially when I haven't even said it yet.]

"To tu keh de na!" Abhiman suggested.

[Then you should tell her.]

"Wo kya sochegi mere baare me," Nirmay said, his insecurity surfacing.

[What will she think about me?]

"Bhai, you are her fiance. Ab usse propose nahi karega to kya mujhe karega? Ulta she will be happy. Dekh, tujhe jo karna hai kar, I am going to sleep," Abhiman said, exasperated, before getting up and heading to his tent.

[Bro, you are her fiancé. If you don't propose to her, then who will? Instead, she will be happy. Look, do what you have to do.]

Nirmay watched as Vanika stood with Harshit outside her tent, his heart pounding with jealousy and anxiety. He moved closer, trying to eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Arre, but jo kehna hai yahi kaho na," Vanika said, sounding a bit confused.

[Say it here only.]

"Please, Vanika... meet me near that tree in a few minutes... mai wait karunga," Harshit replied, and then walked away.

Nirmay clenched his fists, anger boiling inside him. He saw Vanika take a step in the direction Harshit had indicated. Without thinking, Nirmay strode forward, grabbed her hand, and pulled her towards him. She collided with his chest, gasping in surprise, his arms wrapping around her waist securely, possessively.

"Nirmay!!" she exclaimed in shock.

"Vanika, what are you doing? Sab..." Before she could finish, he interrupted her.

"I love you," he said, his voice intense, making her eyes widen in surprise.

"Nirmay..." she started, but he continued, pouring out his feelings.

"I don't know how or when it happened, Vanika. Maybe it was the way you always stand up for what's right, or how you never let anyone feel left out. At first, your habits annoyed me. Your continuous chatter, your laugh, your smile, your voice, I can't imagine my life without those things."

He took a deep breath, his gaze locked on hers. "The way you smile, the sound of your laughter, the determination in your eyes , Your courage, your pure heart... I fell in love with all of it. I wanted to make this confession special, to plan something memorable. But when I found out that Harshit was going to confess his feelings to you, I couldn't accept that. I can't stand the thought of anyone else telling you they love you because those words belong to us. I love you, Vanika. I love you more than anything, and I can't keep it inside anymore.”

Vanika stared at him, her eyes filling with tears. She placed her hands on his chest, feeling his heart beating rapidly beneath her fingertips. "Nirmay, I... I love you too." She confessed, her eyes shining.

Harshit's footsteps echoed softly in the snow as he walked back to his tent, his heart heavy with disappointment and sorrow. The image of Vanika in Nirmay's arms replayed in his mind, shattering the hope he had nurtured.

Nirmay pulled her closer, his forehead resting against hers. He kissed Vanika's forehead tenderly, his lips lingering against her soft skin. He then moved to kiss each cheek, planting gentle yet meaningful kisses that sent shivers down her spine. His touch was electric, igniting a fire within her that she had never known before.

With one hand cupping her cheek, Nirmay pulled Vanika closer, his touch firm yet gentle. His other hand held her waist tightly, pulling her towards him until there was no gap between them. Their bodies pressed against each other, fitting together perfectly as if they were two puzzle pieces finally finding their match.

Their eyes met, and in that moment, the world around them faded away. Nirmay's gaze flickered towards her lips, a silent question hanging in the air. He leaned in slowly, his breath mingling with hers as their noses brushed against each other.

With a soft sigh, Vanika lifted onto her toes, her arms wrapping around Nirmay's neck, drawing him even closer. His hand tightened around her waist, his touch possessive yet gentle, as he leaned in, She closed her eyes, her trust implicit. He titled his head, their lips inches apart, the anticipation palpable.

Then, their lips met, softly at first, testing, exploring. His grip on her waist tightened, pulling her impossibly closer, deepening the kiss. His hand roamed over her back, tracing the curve of her spine, igniting a trail of fire wherever he touched. She pressed into him, her body molding to his, their hearts beating in synchrony.

Their lips met in a searing kiss, a symphony of longing and longing that reverberated through their souls. Nirmay's lips possessed hers with a fervour that left her breathless.

Her fingers threaded through his hair, pulling him closer, deepening the connection. His tightened around her waist , his fingers splaying across the small of her back, the touch eliciting a shiver that ran through her body. She pressed against him.

Their movements became more fervent, more urgent. His kisses trailed down her jaw, to the sensitive spot behind her ear, before returning to her lips, capturing them in a searing kiss that spoke of promises and forever. She clung to him, her body alight with the fire of their shared passion.

The kiss grew more intense, their lips moving together in a dance of passion and need.He poured everything into the kiss-his longing, his love, his desire-losing himself in the sensation of her.

But as the kiss reached its peak, they broke apart, both breathless and trembling with emotion. Their eyes met, still clouded with desire, but now softened with a tenderness that spoke volumes.

Vanika's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue as she looked down, her lips still tingling from the intensity of their kiss. She bit down gently on her lower lip, a shy smile playing at the corners of her mouth as she relished the lingering sensation of his touch.

Nirmay's heart swelled with adoration as he watched her, his arms still wrapped around her in a protective embrace. He couldn't help but smile, a tender expression of love and affection spreading across his face as he gazed at the woman who had stolen his heart.

With a gentle touch, he lifted her chin, tilting her face upwards so that their eyes met once more. In that moment, there was no need for words, their love speaking volumes in the silent exchange of their gaze.

And then, without a word, Nirmay pulled her into his arms once more, holding her tightly against his chest as if afraid to let her go. Vanika melted into his embrace, her heart swelling with love as she buried her face against his chest, inhaling the comforting scent of his cologne.

They stood there in silence, lost in the embrace of each other's arms, the world around them fading into oblivion as they savoured the sweetness of their love.

And as they stood there, wrapped in the warmth of each other's embrace, they knew that their love was a force to be reckoned with, a love that would withstand the tests of time and endure for all eternity.

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

The next morning dawned with a crisp clarity, the sun casting its golden rays over the snow-covered landscape as the candidates gathered for another day of training. Vanika's heart raced as she joined the group, her thoughts still lingering on the moment she had shared with Nirmay the night before.

As she caught sight of him across the training ground, her cheeks flushed with a rosy hue, and she quickly averted her gaze, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her. Nirmay, too, felt the heat rising to his cheeks as he met her eyes, a shy smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

"Candidates!! Attention everyone!!" Nirmay's voice rang out, cutting through the air with authority as he commanded the group's focus. His cheeks still tinged with a hint of pink, he quickly composed himself, his gaze sweeping over the assembled candidates.

With a clear voice, he began to outline the day's training objectives, his words carrying the weight of determination and purpose. The group listened attentively, their minds focused on the tasks ahead, but Vanika couldn't shake the lingering memory of their shared moment from her mind.

As Nirmay spoke, she stole glances at him whenever she could, her heart fluttering at the sight of his handsome features. She found herself lost in the depths of his gaze.

After the training session concluded, everyone gathered to unwind and chat. Harshit had already bid his farewells, citing familial obligations, leaving the group to their banter. Vanika and her friends, excluding Ishana, were engrossed in preparing a new juice experiment.

"Try this and tell us how it is," Vanika offered, extending a glass to Pratha.

"Accha? Mai hi mili hun bali ka bakra banane ke liye?" Pratha quipped, earning a chuckle from the group.

[I am not a scapegoat.]

Seeing Ishana approaching, Naina couldn't help but tease, "Tum sab bhi wahi soch rahe ho jo mai soch rahi hun?" Her mischievous grin was mirrored by the others.

[Are you all thinking the same thing that I'm thinking?]

"Ishana, meri behen, aa jaa na," Vanika called out, gesturing for her to join them.

[Ishana my sister come here.]

"We have prepared this special juice for you," Aditya chimed in.

"Mere liye kyun?" Ishana questioned, suspicion evident in her tone.

[Why for me?]

"Arre, dekh khud ko! Kitni patli hai... hum toh tujhe fit banana chahte hain," Vanika explained with a playful smile as Ishana accepted the glass.

[Look at yourself! How slim you are... we want to make you fit.]

Taking a cautious sip, Ishana immediately recoiled, disgust contorting her features. "Chii!! What is this?? Kitna ghatiya tha," she exclaimed, prompting laughter from her friends.

"Hehehe, we thought you would like it," Sakshi teased.

"Iisse pee ke koi mara hua aadmi zinda ho ke vapas usse bhi buri maut mar jayega!" Ishana remarked before tossing the juice away in disgust. However, her amusement turned to horror as she realised the juice had landed on none other than Abhiman, who had just joined them.

[Anyone who drinks this will bring a dead person back to life only to give them an even worse death.]

Abhiman sighed and wiped his face with a handkerchief, his expression a mix of exasperation and amusement. "Tum ye sab jan bujh ke karti ho na?" he asked, shaking his head as he headed off to wash his face.

[You do this knowingly.]

"I am sorry sir... aap achanak se aa gaye... Mai saaf kar deti hun," Ishana apologised, feeling genuinely remorseful.

[You suddenly arrived... I'll clean up.]

"Rehne do... pata chala saaf karne ke jagah mera muh hi na tod do," Abhiman quipped before leaving to freshen up.

[Forget it... I might end up breaking my face instead of cleaning.]

"Behen, tu kyun relationship me aane ke pehle breakup karana chahti hai apna," Naina teased Ishana, eliciting groans and laughter from the group as they resumed their chatter.

[Sister, why do you want to break up before even entering a relationship?]

"At least go and apologize to him," Nitya urged.

"But I said sorry... aur kitna karun!" Ishana protested.

"Bewkuf!! We are giving you a chance to spend time with him. He loves chai, so uske liye chai bana ke le jaa aur sorry bol," Naina suggested with a mischievous grin.

"Okkk," Ishana agreed, unable to suppress her own smile at the prospect.

After some time, Abhiman was sitting in his tent, engrossed in reading some records, when he heard Ishana's voice.

"Sir..." she began, and he turned towards her, curious.

"Ishana... kya hua?" he inquired.

"Sir, I am really sorry... Maine galti se aap pe pani pheka diya tha..." she started, her words interrupted as her leg tangled, causing her to stumble. In a moment of unfortunate timing, the cup of tea she was holding spilled onto his shirt, near his shoulder, making him hiss in pain. She covered her mouth with her hand, cursing herself mentally for her clumsiness.

"Shit!! I am so sorry sir... I don't know how this happened..." she apologized, genuine remorse evident in her voice.

He raised his palm in reassurance. "It's all right... I will change," he assured her.

"Aap jal gaye honge... I am sorry... Mai toh acche se aa rahi thi," she apologized, tears brimming in her eyes.

"Ishana... it's all right, okk... Don't cry please. Meri galti hai, maine sab saman idhar udhar failaya hua hai, that's why you stumbled. It's not your fault," he comforted her, reaching out to wipe away her tears.

"I will apply ointment," she offered.

"Aree, it's nothing... mai khud kar lunga," he insisted.

"Please sir... otherwise mujhe guilt hota rahega," she pleaded, her sincerity melting his resolve.

He sighed and nodded. "Okay, fine."

As Ishana stammered, "Wo aap..." her voice trailed off, her cheeks flushing as she pointed towards his shirt, unable to meet his gaze.

Abhiman's eyes softened as he observed her, understanding dawning upon him. With a hesitant nod, he reached to open the buttons of his shirt, his movements slow and deliberate. Ishana's heart raced with anticipation, her breath catching in her throat as she nervously fidgeted with her fingers, unable to tear her eyes away from the floor.

Suppressing a smile at her flustered state, Abhiman gently asked, "Ointment?"

Ishana nodded, her cheeks growing even warmer as she retrieved the ointment from the first aid kit. With trembling hands, she approached him and he sat down on the edge of the bed, giving her space to tend to his injury.

Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, Ishana began to apply the ointment near his chest, her touch light and delicate. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach as she felt the warmth of his skin beneath her fingertips, sending a shiver down her spine.

Abhiman, too, felt a surge of warmth coursing through him as he watched her, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of her focused expression. The tenderness in her touch ignited a fire within him.

As Ishana's fingers grazed his skin, tracing the contours of his chest, he felt a rush of emotions coursing through him, his breath catching in his throat.

As Ishana continued to apply the ointment, her movements became more confident, her touch lingering on his skin as if unwilling to let go. Abhiman's breath hitched at the sensation, his heart pounding in his chest as he fought to control the overwhelming rush of emotions coursing through him.

With each passing moment, the air between them crackled with an undeniable tension, their souls reaching out to one another in a silent symphony of desire and longing. And as Ishana's hand gently caressed his chest, her fingers tracing delicate patterns, Abhiman felt himself falling deeper and deeper under her spell.

But as the treatment came to an end, both of them cleared their throats nervously, suddenly aware of the intimacy of the moment. Ishana's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she hastily gathered the first aid kit, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Um... I should go, she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, as she turned to leave.

"Wait," Abhiman called out softly, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.

Ishana paused, her heart racing as she turned back to face him, her eyes searching for answers.

*Thank you, Abhiman said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

Ishana's heart swelled with warmth at his words, a soft smile gracing her lips as she nodded in response.

With a final farewell, she turned to leave, her footsteps echoing in the silence of the room as she made her escape. And as Abhiman closed his eyes with a sigh, a whirlwind of emotions churned within him, leaving him bewildered and unsure of what was happening to his heart.

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

Two months passed in the blink of an eye, and now only a few days remained before the group had to return to Hyderabad. One month before, Piyali and Shikhar were blessed with a baby boy. The news brought joy and excitement to the group, adding another layer of happiness to their lives. It was night, and everyone was enjoying a bonfire under the starlit sky, laughter and chatter filling the air.

Vanika was making her way toward the group when suddenly, a hand pulled her behind a tent. She gasped, her heart racing, only to see Nirmay standing there with a mischievous smile.

"Nirmay!! You scared me," she exclaimed, clutching her chest.

"Yaar... tum to aaj kal mujhpe dhyan hi nahi de rahi ho. You are just busy with your friends. Unke sath to phir bhi district training ke time me rahogi, but we will be in a long-distance relationship after a few days. But you don't care about me. Mai hi hun jo chance dhundta rehta hun tumse baat karne ka," he said, a hint of sadness in his voice.

["Hey... you don't seem to be paying attention to me these days. You're just busy with your friends. At least you'll be with them during district training time, but we will be in a long-distance relationship after a few days. But you don't seem to care about me. I'm the one who keeps looking for a chance to talk to you."]

"Kitna jhuth bolte hain aap!! Training ke baad aadhe se jyada time to aapke sath rehti hun. Wo kam hai kya?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

[You tell so many lies!! After training, I spend more than half of my time with you. Is that not enough?]

"Tumhare sath to sara din bhi kam lagta hai," he replied, his smile widening as he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer. He leaned in and pecked her nose gently. His gaze shifted to her lips, his eyes darkening with desire.

[Even the whole day feels less with you.]

"Aapke irade kuch thik nahi lag rahe Mr. Oberoi!" she teased, her voice playful.

[Your intentions don't seem right, Mr. Oberoi.]

"Aapke sath mere irade kabhi thik hote bhi nahi hain, to be Mrs. Oberoi," he murmured, his lips leaning towards hers. She closed her eyes, her arms wrapping around his neck as she lifted onto her toes.

[My intentions with you never seem right, to be Mrs. Oberoi.]

Just then, Aditya's voice rang out, "Vanii!!!" he called, searching for her.

Vanika's eyes snapped open, and she quickly put some distance between herself and Nirmay. He squeezed his eyes shut in frustration, muttering under his breath, "Stupid!!"

Vanika giggled at his reaction. Standing with a frown and sulking, Nirmay looked every bit the disgruntled lover. She came closer, standing on her toes to peck his lips quickly before darting away. Nirmay stood there, momentarily frozen in surprise, before a grin spread across his face. He chuckled softly, shaking his head as he walked back to join the group, the warmth of her kiss lingering on his lips.

As everyone sat around the bonfire, Vanika found herself seated directly across from Nirmay. The flickering flames cast a warm glow on their faces, and both couldn't help but smile bashfully as they glanced at each other, quickly looking down whenever their eyes met.

Naina, ever the observant friend, noticed Ishana staring at Abhiman. Leaning in, she whispered, "Kab tak aise ghurti rahegi? It's too much! You should confess to him."

[How long will you keep staring like this?]

Ishana responded with a tight-lipped smile, "Naina ji, aapne kuch mere confess karne ke liye chhora hai jo mai jaa ke confess karungi? Sab kuch to aapke kripa se unhe pata chal hi gaya."

[Naina ji, have you left something for me to confess that I should go and confess? Everything seems to have been known to them by your grace.]

Naina rolled her eyes. "Arre...I mean you should propose him."

Vanika nodded in agreement. "Haan, she is right. Only a few days are left. Kab tak aise dekhti rahegi."

Ishana's face turned a shade pinker. "Yaar... I can't! What if he rejects me and gets angry? What if he stops talking to me altogether?"

"Wo gussa kyun hoga? He already knows about your feelings. Agar hona hota to pehle hi ho jata. Uske dil me bhi tere liye feelings hain," Naina assured her, then added, "Shayad."

[Why would he be angry? He already knows about your feelings. If he was supposed to reciprocate, he would have already. Maybe he also has feelings for you in his heart.]

Ishana's eyes narrowed. "Shayad matlab?"

[What do you mean by Maybe?]

Naina shrugged. "Shayad matlab shayad. Mujhe aisa lagta hai. Vani, what do you think?"

[Maybe means maybe. I think like this]

Vanika looked thoughtful for a moment. "Mujhe to nahi laga kabhi," she said with a blank expression, making Ishana glare at Naina again.

[I don't think so.]

"Arre, he is my best friend so I know him better. Maine usse kayi baar tujhe dekhte huye dekha hai," Naina said.

"Sachhhii??" Ishana's excitement was palpable.

Vanika, ever the pragmatist, added, "Zaruri nahi hai ussi reason se dekhte hon. Maybe he just notices her because he knows that she loves him." Ishana glared at Naina again.

"Tujhe kya ho raha hai? Bechari ka confidence girane me lagi hui hai!" Naina said, annoyed.

[What's happening to you? You seem bent on lowering her confidence!]

"Arre but we can't give her false hopes na. But I think you should propose to him. Wo mana kyun karenge? You are perfect... kya burai hai tere andar? Han, mana ki itni patli hai ki hawa chalte hi udd jayegi, bahot ziddi hai, har baat pe meri tarah ladai pe aa jati hai, pani ubalne ke alawa koi aur kaam nahi aata, chudail jaise hasti hai, gana gaati hai to samne baithe 4 logon ko heart attack aa jata hai... but baki to you are perfect," Vanika said with a playful grin.

[But we can't give her false hopes, right? But I think you should propose to him. Why would he refuse? You're perfect... what flaw is there in you? Yes, it's true that you're so slim that you'll fly away in the wind, you're very stubborn, you pick fights on every little thing like me, you don't know anything besides boiling water, you laugh like a witch, and when you sing, it gives the people sitting in front of you a heart attack... but besides that, you are perfect."]

Ishana folded her arms and glared at her. "Aur kuch buraiyan bacha hai wo bhi bata de!"

[Is there any bad qualities left?]

"Arre on a serious note, you have a good nature, you're soon to be an IPS officer, and most importantly, you love Abhiman sir so much. Mujhe nahi lagta ki unhe tujhse jyada pyar karne vali ladki milegi," Vanika said, her voice full of encouragement.

Ishana's face lit up with a mix of determination and shyness. "Accha accha thik hai. I will propose him on our farewell day."

"Done! Mai tujhe khud ready karungi," Naina said, grinning from ear to ear.

The bonfire crackled, and the group continued to chat and laugh, the warmth of their camaraderie filling the night.

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