Destined to Be Yours

As days passed, the strained silence between Shourya and Vedha became a routine. There were no meaningful conversations, no attempts to bridge the gap, and no signs of reconciliation. Yet, amidst this cold war, Shourya's anger toward Vedha only grew. He couldn't forget the circumstances that had brought her into his life—a constant reminder of what he had lost.

One afternoon, as Shourya sat in his office, his phone buzzed. Seeing Saanvi's name, he sighed, bracing himself for her usual mischief.

"Saanvi, I'm in a meeting," he said curtly.

"Meeting? Oh, so busy you've forgotten what tomorrow is, haven't you?" she teased, her voice brimming with mock indignation.

"What's tomorrow?" he asked, genuinely confused.

Saanvi gasped dramatically. "Unbelievable! My own brother doesn't know my birthday! I'm hurt, Bhaiyya. Truly hurt."

Shourya rubbed his temple, already sensing where this was headed. "Alright, fine. Happy birthday in advance. I'll send a gift."

"Oh no, mister! I don't want just a gift. I want you—in person. And don't you dare come alone. Bring Vedha with you. I want the perfect couple at my party!"

"Saanvi…"

"No excuses. I'll see you both tomorrow evening. Byeee!" she said, hanging up before he could argue.

Shourya sat back, feeling utterly trapped. Saying no to Saanvi was impossible, especially when she played the emotional card. He knew he had no choice but to comply.

The next evening, a sleek black Mercedes-Benz car pulled up in front of Aditya's house. Shourya stepped out, exuding his usual aura of authority, followed by Vedha, dressed simply but elegantly. She was nervous, knowing how strained her presence made things, especially around Shourya.

As they walked inside, Saanvi ran to the door, her face lighting up with excitement. She flung her arms around Shourya in a warm hug.

"Happy birthday," he said, handing her a beautifully wrapped gift.

"Thank you, bhaiyya! But you're late! Even Vedha looks more excited than you," she teased, her tone mischievous.

Shourya gave her a warning glance. "Behave, Saanvi."

She grinned and turned to Vedha. "Look at him trying to be all serious. Vedha, you'll teach him how to smile, right?"

Vedha smiled faintly but said nothing, sensing Shourya's discomfort.

Aditya appeared, extending a hand to Shourya. "Welcome, Shourya. Glad you could make it."

Shourya barely acknowledged him, offering only a curt nod before stepping inside.

Aditya's face fell, but he quickly composed himself. Turning to Vedha, he greeted her warmly and gave her a brief hug.

As the time came to cut the cake, Aditya carefully brought it out of the kitchen, smiling at Saanvi's excitement. But as he stepped into the living room, his foot slipped on a stray ribbon. The cake tilted precariously before slipping from his hands and crashing to the floor.A collective gasp filled the room. Aditya stood frozen, guilt etched across his face.

"I—I'm so sorry," he stammered, his voice heavy with regret.