The Sun & the Stars Aligned

16: Operation Rejecting Romeo

ADITYA

"I told you to stay away from my sister," Arjun fumed, his voice laced with anger.

"And I told you that wasn't an option for me. I like her. Damn it, I'm in love with her," I declared firmly, meeting his gaze head-on. His fists clenched, his eyes turning a dark shade of red.

Without warning, a forceful hit landed on my face, stunning me momentarily. Before I could react, he grabbed my collar, his grip tight and threatening. "If you even dare to break my sister's heart, I'll break your bones," he seethed, his voice dripping with menace.

And I couldn't help but chuckle. I understood where his fierce protectiveness came from. In fact, if it were Ananya, my reaction would be just as intense, if not worse. While I could easily retaliate with double the force, I knew my jaan wouldn't appreciate seeing her brother with a bruised face.

Gently, I grasped his hand and removed it from my collar, maintaining eye contact all the while. "You may have raised your hand today, but don't dare to try it again. Just because I love your sister doesn't mean I can't reciprocate it," I asserted firmly, my tone serious and unwavering. 

"One day you'll give your sister's hand in mine, and that day is not far off. I promise," I challenged him, conveying my sincerity and determination.

***

I entered the room to check on her, only to find my jaan sleeping on the couch in an uncomfortable position. Gently, I approached her and settled down beside her.

"Sweetheart, wake up. Let's take you home," I whispered softly, running my fingers through her hair. Slowly, she stirred, her eyes still half-closed from sleep.

"Where is everyone?" she murmured, struggling to fully awaken. Without hesitation, I pulled her close, enveloping her in my embrace. One arm wrapped around her back, the other tenderly stroking her hair.

"They've all left. It's just you and me now," I reassured her, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. She snuggled deeper into my embrace, her voice laden with sleepiness.

"Then let me sleep a little longer," she mumbled drowsily. Seeing her so peaceful, sleeping in my arms without a worry in the world, brought a smile to my lips. I'm glad she's comfortable around me.

"You can sleep once we're home," I replied, holding her closer as her head found its place on my chest.

She glanced up at me, her eyes still half-open but widening in surprise as she carefully studied my face. With a delicate touch, she traced the bruise on my cheek, concern flooding her expression. Damn, she noticed.

"Did you get into a fight? Did Arjun bhaiya hit you?" Tears welled up in her eyes as she inspected the bruise with her gentle hands.

"Hush, don't cry. I can fucking handle anything in this world, but not seeing tears in your beautiful eyes," I murmured, brushing away her tears with my thumb.

"I'm so sorry. He shouldn't have hurt you. It must be painful," she said, tears streaming down her cheeks as she examined the bruise, cupping my face in her hands.

"Everything else was fine, but your brother shouldn't have aimed for my face. It'll leave a mark for a while. Never mind, my handsome face will make up for it," I joked, trying to make her laugh. Instead, she playfully hit me with her small hands.

"Ouch, jaan, that hurts," I pretended, grinning.

"Well, you deserved it," she pouted, glaring at me. "Here I am, worrying about you, and you're trying to be funny."