Annahita and Nandini met Akshita and Rustam at the theatre. Despite Rustam's stoic expression, they all enjoyed the outing. Nandini teased Rustam about not being able to say no to his wife.

During dinner at the restaurant, Annahita asked about Akshita and Rustam's love story. Akshita began, "It's a long story, but I'll tell you in short." Annahita nodded, encouraging her to continue.

"I got engaged to Adhiraj in a very private function involving just our family members," Akshita explained. "He wasn't interested in this marriage, so he used to ignore me a lot, although he respected me but didn't love me." Rustam maintained his stoic expression as Akshita continued, "I was trying to make Adhiraj show interest in me, so I used to invite him on dates or pester him for gifts. But he never showed any interest and used to send Kaali with gifts. I got frustrated, drank a lot one day, and met Rustam. It's embarrassing to say, but I cried a lot while hugging him, even though I didn't know him. He was so shocked by my sudden hug that he couldn't move."

Days passed, but Akshita couldn't forget Rustam. She saw him again with Shivaay on a rally and decided to approach him for friendship. Although he initially denied it, he later agreed. "Months passed, and I developed feelings for him, but he couldn't betray his Sarkaar and Hukum, so he used to stay away from me," Akriti continued. "At last, I approached Adhiraj and told him about my love for Rustam. That was the first time I saw Adhiraj genuinely happy. He helped me confess my feelings for Rustam."

Akshita held Rustam's hands, intertwining her fingers with his. "Of course, my father wasn't happy with this arrangement, and he didn't want Rustam as my husband. He tried to break us apart when Shivaay threatened to leave the party and resign from his position if he didn't approve of Rustam. The most difficult task was to make Rustam agree to his love for me. But the day he confessed was the day he married me. He couldn't wait any longer" Akshita chuckled. Rustam smiled at her and pecked her hands.

Annahita was captivated by their story and felt their love in their eyes. They didn't talk much but could convey everything through their gaze. Their conversation paused as the waiter arrived with their food, and they all dug in.

After some time, they headed back to their mansion, even though the ladies were reluctant to leave early. Rustam insisted, citing the late hour, and they all returned home.

On the other part of the city

Adhiraj sat with Shivaay, who appeared visibly intoxicated but continued to consume more alcohol. Shivaay, with a troubled expression, shared his concerns.

"It's all messing with my mind, Adi. Randhawa is pressuring me to marry his daughter as soon as possible. The elections are near, and this drama is giving me a headache. Bachhi made that girl resign from her post, and now Randhawa is angry. I don't know what to do," Shivaay said, followed by another gulp of wine.

"First, stop drinking. Although I want to punch you in the face for making Nandu cry, I know your reasons. And secondly, just leave that Randhawa; the whole Anuvarta will vote for you only," Adhiraj advised.

"I know the people of Anuvarta will vote for me, but I don't want to involve you guys in this election right now. Otherwise, that man will surely start suspecting my identity, and I can't risk it now. Things are not going as I planned, and right now, even Bachhi is going against me," Shivaay explained.

As Shivaay continued to drown his concerns in alcohol, Adhiraj couldn't help but feel the weight of the complicated situation. The dimly lit room reflected the somber atmosphere.

Adhiraj, showing a mix of concern and frustration, replied, "Shivaay, you need to think clearly. Drinking won't solve anything. Your decisions affect not only you but also those around you. Nandini is hurt, and Anahita is getting involved in the mess. She will surely find out what is going on here."

Shivaay leaned back, running a hand through his disheveled hair. "I never wanted Nandini to be hurt. I thought I was doing the right thing. Anna can't find out about it right now. Things will get complicated with her involvement."

Adhiraj sighed, "Sometimes, what we think is right may not be the best for everyone. You need to find a way to fix this mess. I would've beaten you up to a pulp if you weren't my friend. Fix your mess as soon as possible."

Shivaay looked at Adhiraj with despair. "I know, but Randhawa is pressuring me, and the political situation is getting tense. That man is trying to find Anna, and Nandini is trying to do something big. I can feel it. There is going to be more mess."

Adhiraj, determined to help Shivaay find a solution, said, "We'll figure it out, Shivaay. But first, you need to sober up. Tomorrow is a new day, and decisions made under the influence won't lead to anything good."

With that, Adhiraj tried to convince Shivaay to rest and clear his mind for the challenges ahead, hoping for a resolution that would bring peace to everyone involved.

Later, at Anantara Kutir, after dropping off Shivaay in his room, Adhiraj rested on his bed, suddenly remembering his movie date with Annahita.

"Shit, she will be so angry with me. But it's late at night now. She must be sleeping, and I can't disturb her. It's getting hard to be close to her. I need to do something."

Adhiraj laid on his bed and fell asleep thinking about his relationship with Annahita.

The next morning, Adhiraj decided to meet Annahita and apologize for ruining their plans the previous night. While walking to his parents' wing, he spotted his father and mother going somewhere.

"Baba, where are you going with Maa this early?" asked Adhiraj.

"Guru Ji is not coming for Kaali Puja due to some reasons, so he instructed someone else to perform the puja. We are going to make arrangements for their stay and check things going on in the temple," answered Digvijay.

"Okay, if you need any help, then call me" said Adhiraj and touched both his parents' feet. Digvijay and Tripti went away.

Adhiraj started going towards Annahita's room when he found her in the hall, fiddling with speakers. Annahita was standing backward, and her back was facing him, so she didn't see him.

"Jaanam, what are you doing?" asked Adhiraj.

Annahita heard him and turned to face him, smiling brightly. Adhiraj was momentarily taken aback by her unexpected reaction. Before he could say anything, she started working on her phone. Adhiraj observed her with curiosity, wondering what she was up to.

Suddenly, the entire mansion shook with the loud sound of music blasting from the speakers. Adhiraj was dumbfounded, and he couldn't believe the lyrics of the song.

(🎶Tum toh dhokebaaz ho
Waada karke bhul jate ho🎶)

Adhiraj quickly covered his ears with his hands, attempting to drown out the music. However, Annahita raised the volume even more. After a while, Adhiraj finally managed to turn off the speakers and said, "Jaanam, I'm sorry. Something urgent came up; otherwise, I would've come for sure."

Adhiraj quickly covered his ears with his hands, attempting to drown out the music. However, Annahita raised the volume even more. After a while, Adhiraj finally managed to turn off the speakers and said, "Jaanam, I'm sorry. Something urgent came up; otherwise, I would've come for sure."

"You could've informed me or Nandu. But no, mighty Adhiraj Singh Rathore doesn't have even a second to message us," said Annahita, folding her hands in front of her chest.

Adhiraj slowly held his ear with his hand and said, "Sorry, Anu, it was really urgent. I will take you tonight on a movie date."

"No need" said Annahita, starting to walk toward her room.

Adhiraj followed behind her like a puppy, continuously apologizing. "Anu, please understand. It was an unforeseen situation. I promise to make it up to you. Let me take you on a movie date tonight."

With mock indifference, Annahita replied, "No need. I'm not interested. You go on your 'urgent' missions. I have other plans."

Desperate to make amends, Adhiraj persisted, "Come on, Anu, don't be upset. Let me make it right."

Teasingly, Annahita crossed her arms and said, "Oh, mighty Adhiraj Singh Rathore has time for movie dates now? I thought saving the world kept you busy."

Realizing he needed a more genuine approach, Adhiraj softened his tone, "Anu, I'm really sorry. Let me make it up to you. I promise I'll find time for us tonight."

Slightly amused, Annahita said, "We'll see, Sarkaar. Actions speak louder than words, remember?" She then walked away, leaving Adhiraj contemplating how to redeem himself.

Adhiraj followed her to her room but didn't enter; instead, he stood by her door and said, "Vaise, tumhare is 2 ft ke shareer mein itna gussa kaise hai?"
(By the way, how come you have this much anger in this 2 ft body?)

Annahita glared at him and retorted, "Main aapko 2 ft lagti hu ?"
(Do I look like 2 ft to you ?)

Smirking, Adhiraj replied, "Yes, why? Are you even shorter?"

This statement angered Annahita, and she started arguing with him about her height.

Adhiraj continued to tease her, laughing,
" Jaana mujhse behas matt kro. Nhi toh almirah pe bitha dunga or utarunga bhi nhi"
("Jaana, don't argue with me, or else I'll make you sit on the almirah and won't carry you down from it.")

Annahita's anger flared, and she impulsively grabbed a nearby vase, chasing after Adhiraj, who was moving at a fast pace. However, he suddenly slipped on the stairs and fell.

Shocked at the sudden turn of events, the vase slipped from Annahita's hands. She hurriedly moved towards Adhiraj, tears welling up in her eyes.

Annahita rushed to Adhiraj's side, her heart pounding with concern. She gently lifted his head onto her lap and said, "Are you okay? What happened? Say something, please. I'm sorry."

Adhiraj, wincing in pain, rubbed his right hand and replied, "Ahh, I think I've fractured my hand."

Panicking, Annahita continued to apologize with tears in her eyes as she stood up, frantically searching for her phone to call for help. Eventually, she found Shivaay's number and dialed it.

Shivaay picked up the call, and Annahita, with a shaky voice, explained the situation, "Bhai, it's Annahita. Adhiraj fell down the stairs, and he's in pain. Can you please come over? I think he might have fractured his hand."

Shivaay, concerned, responded, "I'll be there right away. Just take care of him until I arrive."

Annahita thanked Shivaay and then turned her attention back to Adhiraj, who was trying to sit up despite the pain. "Please, just lie down. Help is on the way," she insisted.

Adhiraj managed a small smile and nodded, appreciating Annahita's caring nature even in stressful situations.

Annahita was panicking every second, apologizing to Adhiraj for her behavior, while he tried to calm her down. After a few minutes, Adhiraj and Rustam rushed towards him, guiding him to sit on the couch.

"Bhai, will he be alright? Should we go to the hospital? What if something happens to him?" panicked Annahita.

Shivaay reassured her that the doctor was on his way. Adhiraj also attempted to calm her down, but she continued to fret.

"Why isn't the doctor coming? Is he coming from London that it's taking so much time?" she said, tapping her foot anxiously.

As she paced around, the doctor arrived and began examining Adhiraj. Before the doctor could share any information, Adhiraj signaled to Shivaay, asking him to take Annahita outside and help her calm down. Shivaay raised his eyebrows but complied with the request, guiding Annahita away from the scene. She was initially reluctant to leave but eventually moved with Shivaay after his persistent requests.

Shivaay took her outside and settled her on the swing.

"Stop panicking, Anna. He will be alright. It's not your fault," said Shivaay, trying to reassure her.

However, Annahita's panic was evident in her trembling hands and the anxious look in her eyes. "No, Bhai. It's my fault. What if something happens to him like with Maa and Baba? What am I gonna do?" she expressed, tears welling up and her voice cracking.

Shivaay knelt in front of her, gently holding her trembling hands. "Look into my eyes. You call me Bhai, right? So trust me. It's not your fault. It's just a minor fracture," Shivaay assured her, trying to provide comfort amid the distress.

As they sat on the swing, the soft morning sunlight filtering through the leaves cast a warm glow on the surroundings.

Annahita's panic was palpable - her rapid breaths punctuating the otherwise quiet ambiance. Shivaay, with a steadying presence, spoke soothing words to alleviate her anxiety. The delicate fragrance of blooming flowers mixed with the fresh morning dew, creating an atmosphere that contrasted sharply with Annahita's distressed state.

She couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt, and Shivaay's attempts to console her echoed in the serene surroundings. The garden, adorned with blossoms of various colors, served as a picturesque backdrop to the unfolding scene of reassurance and concern.

As Shivaay held her hands, Annahita's gaze was drawn to the swaying branches above, their shadows dancing on the ground below. The morning birds chirped a hopeful melody, as if trying to impart a sense of optimism to the troubled atmosphere.

Together, they awaited news on Adhiraj's condition, the morning sun casting long shadows as it rose higher in the sky. Shivaay's supportive words mingled with the sounds of nature, creating a delicate symphony in the garden.

As Shivaay ushered Anu outside, my gaze fixed on Dr. Mehra. I sat up, determined to control the narrative.

"Look, Dr. Mehra, you're going to plaster my hands and confirm a fracture. Understand?" I asserted, my tone unwavering.

The doctor, sensing the gravity of the situation, hesitated, "But Sarkaar, you seem fine, and there doesn't appear to be any fracture."

My expression hardened. "If I say there's a fracture, then there's a fracture. Arrange for someone from your hospital to come here and plaster my hands."

I turned my attention to Rustam, issuing a stern warning, "Don't you dare mention this to anyone."

Rustam nodded in silent compliance, leading the doctor away to manage the necessary arrangements discreetly. The hall echoed with anticipation, each moment carrying the weight of the intricate web I was weaving.

As I sit here orchestrating this charade, guilt gnaws at the edges of my conscience. Anu's tears should never have fallen, yet my actions led her to this moment. I vowed it would be the last time she'd shed tears because of me. But the truth is, I'm selfish. I want her with me, always.

Manipulating this situation feels like navigating a minefield, each step fraught with potential consequences. Anu deserves honesty, yet my desperation clouds my judgment. Love has a way of turning the most rational minds irrational, and mine is no exception.

She's a tempest of emotions, and I'm the cause of this storm. I long to hold her close, to ease the pain etched on her face. In the depths of my being, I yearn for her presence, her laughter, and the warmth of her understanding gaze.

This intricate dance of deception is a means to an end - a future where Anu willingly chooses to be by my side. The weight of my love for her is both my strength and my weakness. I'll mend the fractures I've caused, plastering the wounds I've inflicted on her heart.

As I tread this perilous path, the echo of promises made hangs heavy in the air. Anu, my confidante, my love, deserves the truth. But can I reveal the depths of my manipulations without risking the very connection I seek to strengthen? Only time will tell, and in these stolen moments, I grapple with the conflicting desires of my heart - to have her, to cherish her, and to be honest with her, even if it unravels the carefully woven tapestry of my schemes.

Anu, deserves the unfiltered truth, yet here I am, entangled in a web of half-truths and manipulations. My jaanam is a powerful force who turns the rational mind into a battlefield of emotions. Only she has the power to make the beast and the devil hidden under my smiling self to come upfront.

It was challenging to make her willingly be with me without a fight. I enjoy irritating her because that's when she reveals her emotions to me. When she was chasing me with the vase, I saw the opportunity to bind her to me forever. I purposely fell down from the stairs and faked the injury. I can jump from heights; these stairs wouldn't cause any damage to me.

Feeling remorseful for making her cry, I wanted to comfort her when she apologized for something she didn't even do. Yet, I'm selfish and a jerk who craves her presence. I'd rather be the selfish jerk in her life than lose her for the sake of morality.

As I lay on the couch, the doctor arrived to plaster my hands, and I noticed Annahita rushing in with Shivaay. I held my hands, contorting my face in pain, as part of the act.

Annahita, still anxious and teary-eyed, rushed toward me as the doctor began plastering my hands. Shivaay stood beside her, offering silent support. Maintaining my act, I winced in pain as the doctor worked on the plaster.

"Adhiraj, are you okay?" Annahita's voice trembled with concern, and I wanted to smack myself for making her cry. Oh, Bholenath, I deserve hell for making her cry.

"I'll be fine, Anu. Just a minor fracture," I replied, managing a half-smile through the pain.

The doctor finished the procedure, reassuring everyone that I needed some rest. Shivaay suggested taking me to a guest room for the time being.

As they walked me to the guest room, she again started apologizing, "I'm really sorry, Adhiraj. If I hadn't chased you with that vase, this wouldn't have happened."

Staying in character, I softly replied, "It's not your fault, Anu. Accidents happen."

Shivaay, sensing my eyes signaling him to leave the room, glared at me but decided to leave them alone. "I'll inform everyone about Adhiraj's situation. You both take care."

Once alone in the guest room, Annahita continued to apologize. I sat on the bed, and she helped me by placing a pillow under my hand and behind my back.

"Come, jaanam, sit here beside me," I said to her.

She hesitated but sat beside me. I held her hand with my left hand and said, "You don't need to apologize, but I'll give you a punishment. Ok?"

She frantically nodded at me and said, "Ok. I'll bear your punishment."

I smiled at her, patted her cheeks, and said, "Move to Anantara Kutir with me"

"What?" said Annahita, with a puzzled look on her face.

"I can't do anything with my left hand, Jaana. So, just move to Anantara Kutir with me to help me. I have so many things to do, and I can't trust anyone easily. So, tell me. Will you move with me?" I said to her.

She seemed to be in her thoughts and said, "Ok. I'll move to Anantara Kutir. Now you should rest here for some time."

She started getting up from the bed when I said, "I'm hungry, Anu."

Annahita, with a concerned expression, looked at me and asked, "Oh, I forgot. What would you like to eat?"

I pondered for a moment and then smiled, "How about some roti and aloo ki sabzi? It's simple, and I'm sure it will be delicious."

She nodded and said, "Alright, I'll arrange that for you. Just rest here, and I'll be back soon."

As Annahita left the room to prepare the meal, I couldn't help but appreciate the turn of events. Though I had manipulated the situation, there was a part of me that genuinely enjoyed her company. The thought of her moving to Anantara Kutir brought a sense of joy and anticipation.

Soon, she returned with a tray containing a plate of roti sabzi. She carefully set it down on a small table beside the bed. "Here you go. I hope you like it," she said, offering a genuine smile.

I smiled at her and started tearing a morsel but failed to do so with my left hand. She suddenly sat in front of me and took the plate in her hands and herself started feeding me.

Bholenath, save me. I feel like I'll die of a heart attack with her being near me and feeding me with her own hands.

She is such a beautiful girl that I've seen in my life.

I finished my plate while occasionally biting her fingers when she was feeding me. She made me rest and left the room. I slept while thinking about her as I couldn't sleep properly last night.