Cover Credits:@Shriyakiduniya
In the royal family of Queen Damyanti, siblings Shiv, Raghav, Maan, and Tara share an unbreakable bond. Maan, the poet of the family, has always been closest to his twin sister, Tara, whose laughter brightened their wor...
The soft afternoon light streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a golden glow across the grand piano. Tarini, or Toru as her brothers fondly called her, sat on the cushioned bench, her fingers dancing effortlessly over the keys. The melody of her favorite song, *"Lafzon Ka Yeh Rishta Nahi,"* filled the room with an aching sweetness. Her deep blue eyes, flecked with gold, remained focused, while her curls cascaded down her forehead, swaying gently with each movement.
She was waiting, as she often did, for her older brothers, Shivendra and Raghavendra, to return from the office. Her heart filled with warmth at the thought of them. They were the pillars of her life, always protective, always loving. It was in these moments of quiet solitude that Tarini let her emotions flow through the music, her way of keeping their bond alive even in their absence.
The song reached its most delicate note when she felt arms wrap around her shoulders from behind. The familiar scent of sandalwood and something distinctly *Maan* surrounded her. Her twin brother, Maanvendra, or Maan, had silently crept up behind her. His hug was warm, and as he rested his chin on her shoulder, she felt his deep exhale against her curls.
"You’re playing our song again, Toru," Maan whispered, his voice soft yet teasing, the affection clear.
Tarini smiled, her fingers still lightly grazing the keys. "It’s the only thing that keeps me from missing them too much. Besides, it’s your favorite too, isn’t it?"
Maan grinned, tightening his arms around her in response. "You know me too well. But you should also know that we’re never too far away. Shiv and Raghav will be home soon. You don’t have to worry."
Tarini leaned back into him, her curls brushing against his cheek. "I know... but sometimes it’s the waiting that gets to me. This house feels incomplete without all of us together."
Maan, understanding her unspoken emotions, released her gently and moved to sit beside her on the bench. His presence was reassuring, grounding her in the here and now. He looked at the piano keys, then at her. "Play it for me, one more time. The whole song this time. I’ll sing with you."
Tarini turned to him, her deep blue eyes sparkling with mischief. "You? Singing? I don’t remember the last time you stayed on key."
Maan laughed, his voice rich and carefree. "Hey, I’ve improved! Plus, with you playing so beautifully, no one will notice if I mess up."
She chuckled, her fingers gliding back onto the keys as Maan began to hum along. The room was soon filled with the harmonious blend of their voices, laughter punctuating the occasional off-note. Together, they filled the house with life and music, just as they always had.
As the song ended, a peaceful silence settled over them. Tarini rested her head on Maan’s shoulder, feeling the love and security that only a brother could offer.
"They’ll be home soon," Maan said softly, as if reading her thoughts.
Tarini nodded, closing her eyes. "I know. And until they are, I have you. That’s all I need."
Maan smiled, pressing a light kiss on her forehead. "Always."
And in that moment, despite the absence of their other brothers, Tarini knew her heart was full, surrounded by the love that only her family could give.
On March 26, the air carried a sweet scent of spring, with the sun filtering through the leaves in gentle golden rays. Maan and Tara made their way to Samrat’s house for his birthday celebration. It was a day Maan had marked on his calendar with extra care, not just because Samrat was his best friend, but because Samrat had been a pillar of strength in Maan’s life. Tara walked beside him, her vibrant energy lighting up the path as they approached the entrance.
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sujayxpyaar as Samrat Khanna aka Sam,best friend of Maan and Tara.
“Are you excited?” Tara asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Maan smiled softly, his thoughts on his friend. "Yeah, it’s been a while since we’ve all gotten together like this. Samrat deserves a good day.”
The door to Samrat’s house opened as they stepped closer, revealing Samrat, whose smile stretched wide as soon as he saw them. "Maan! Tara! I thought you two would never get here!" he exclaimed, wrapping them both in a warm embrace.
“Happy birthday, Samrat!” Tara chimed in, handing him a small, intricately wrapped box.
Samrat grinned and took the gift, waving it around playfully. “You didn’t have to, but I’m definitely not complaining!”
Maan chuckled, watching the exchange. “I’ll say it too. Happy birthday, brother. This year feels special.”
Samrat raised an eyebrow, playfully curious. "Oh? And why’s that?"
Maan shrugged, his tone light but his words sincere. “Maybe because this year we’re all here, together. You’ve always been there for me, Samrat. Today, we get to celebrate you.”
Samrat's expression softened as he glanced between Maan and Tara. "You’re the ones who’ve been there for me. You two have always had my back. I wouldn’t be who I am without you."
The trio made their way inside, where laughter and warmth filled the room. Friends mingled, and the hum of conversations wove through the air. As the evening unfolded, Samrat led Maan and Tara to the balcony, where the city lights twinkled below them.
"I don’t say this often," Samrat began, leaning against the railing, "but having you two here means the world to me. We’ve been through everything—good, bad, and worse. But here we are, stronger than ever."
Tara smiled softly, her voice gentle. "That’s what friends are for, Samrat. To stand by each other no matter what."
Maan nodded, placing a hand on Samrat's shoulder. "You’ve been like a brother to me, and I couldn’t ask for a better one. This is your day, man. Let’s make sure it’s one to remember.”
Samrat’s eyes gleamed with gratitude, and for a moment, the weight of their shared history—each struggle, each victory—passed between them.
"To friendship," Samrat said, raising his glass.
"To friendship," Maan and Tara echoed in unison.
The night continued, filled with laughter, memories, and promises of a future where their bond would only grow stronger. For Maan, it wasn’t just a celebration of Samrat’s birthday—it was a reminder of the unbreakable connection they shared, one that would last through all the chapters of their lives.
