They never met...

chapter 34 -SEVEN DAYS

As Mahima's lean figure descended the white marble stairs, the morning light filtered through the sheer curtains danced across her face, illuminating her gentle smile where the pastel pink walls of jagjeet's cozy and warm house were complimenting the colours of her cheeks. The aroma of freshly cooked breakfast—spices, golden pancakes, and steaming coffee—wafted through the air, enticing her senses and leading her to the kitchen.

But what caught her breath was the sight of Jagjeet, effortlessly navigating the culinary space with the confidence of a man who knew his way around her heart. His broad shoulders flexed as he expertly flipped pancakes, the sizzle and crackle of the pan filling the air. The morning light danced across his chiseled features, highlighting those piercing blue eyes that had once been her safe haven.

His hair was covered in a navy blue turban and that was the issue he was wearing a turban while cooking....he was wearing 'only' turban  and shorts while cooking, and a hint of stubble framed his strong jawline covered under his beard, making him look vulnerable yet irresistible. Mahima's heart skipped a beat as she leaned against the railing, her eyes locked on Jagjeet.

The warmth in his gaze drew her in, like a magnet pulling her to the only man who had ever truly understood her.

"Good morning," Jagjeet called out, sensing her presence. His eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, and Mahima's soul stirred.

She drifted toward him, her footsteps silent on the marble floor. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around Jagjeet's waist, pulling him into a gentle back hug.

The warmth of his body enveloped her, and she felt the tension in his muscles ease. Jagjeet's hands paused mid-air, the spatula hovering over the pan.

He felt Mahima's warm embrace, her soft curves pressing against his back, and his heart swelled. The world around him melted away, leaving only the gentle pressure of her hold.

"Morning," he whispered, his voice filled with emotion, his lips brushing against her forehead.

Mahima released him, and Jagjeet quickly turned, his lips moving toward hers. Mahima's eyes closed, anticipating the kiss, her heart racing with excitement.

But instead, Jagjeet's lips brushed against her cheek, leaving a trail of disappointment in their wake.

Mahima's eyes flickered open, and Jagjeet swiftly lifted her onto the kitchen counter, his gaze burning with intensity.

"I'm not done yet," Jagjeet teased, his voice low and playful.

His lips grazed Mahima's with a soft good morning kiss. Jagjeet's eyes locked onto Mahima's, the connection between them palpable.

"Better?" Jagjeet asked, his voice husky, his eyes searching for reassurance.

Mahima's cheeks flushed, her silence speaking volumes of the emotions swirling within her.

To change the subject, Mahima asked, "What are you cooking?" But then it clicked to her

"Jagjeet, you're... cooking?" Mahima asked, incredulous, her voice laced with amusement.

Jagjeet turned his attention from the pan to his lady on the kitchen counter as he smiled. "Surprised?"

The warmth in his gaze drew her in, like a magnet. Mahima's heart skipped a beat.

"Seven years ago, you couldn't even boil water," Mahima teased, her eyes sparkling.

Jagjeet's face turned sheepish, his dark hair mussed. "Hey, I've improved."

Mahima's curiosity got the better of her. "Where did you learn cooking from?" she asked, her voice softer.

Jagjeet's expression softened, his eyes filled with love. "Umm... Harman loves food, so I learned it for my kiddo."