---
It was the third day after Harsh had left, and Mahek found herself trying to focus on her next steps. She had joined college recently, and there were still formalities to complete. That morning, as she was finishing her breakfast, Om entered the dining room with a casual, easygoing vibe.
"Bhabhi, are you ready for your registration today?" Om asked with a teasing smile, pulling out a chair beside her.
Mahek looked up, confused for a second. "Registration?"
Om chuckled, shaking his head. "Your transfer to the college, bhabhi. You didn't forget, did you?"
"Oh... right," Mahek replied, quickly finishing her breakfast, trying not to appear too distracted. She had been lost in her thoughts the past few days, and it was easy to lose track of time and details. But Om's light-hearted attitude helped lift some of the tension she'd been carrying.
Just then, Aditi walked into the room, her phone in hand. "Bhabhi, I'll come with you! It'll be fun. I'll show you around the campus-it's way better when you know the cool spots," she said with excitement, already planning the day ahead.
Mahek smiled at Aditi's enthusiasm, appreciating how her in-laws were trying to make this transition easier for her. "Thanks, Aditi. I'm sure I'll need the help," she said, feeling a little more at ease with the thought of them accompanying her.
Later that morning, the three of them arrived at the college. The campus was bustling with students, and Mahek felt a mix of nervousness and anticipation. As they made their way to the registration office, Om handled most of the paperwork like a responsible younger brother, occasionally throwing in a joke to make Mahek laugh.
"Bhabhi, you're officially a student here now," Om declared triumphantly after handing in the last set of documents.
Aditi, standing beside Mahek, grinned. "Now you can focus on studies and... maybe forget a little about your worries," she said, her voice soft but understanding.
Mahek nodded, feeling a little lighter as they walked around the campus. Aditi pointed out the library, the student center, and even a quiet spot under a tree where students usually hung out between classes.
As they headed back home, Mahek realized how grateful she was for Om and Aditi's support. It wasn't just about helping with college-it was about making her feel like part of the family, easing her into her new life one step at a time.
---
---
Harsh stepped out into the bustling city, the sharp air hitting him as he adjusted to the noise and energy surrounding him. He blended seamlessly into the crowd, his presence commanding yet unobtrusive. Each passerby was a potential ally or threat, and Harsh was always scanning, always calculating.
The streets were alive with activity, but Harsh was focused on his objective.
As he walked, he replayed his strategy in his mind. Tonight, he would meet with his trusted contacts in a discreet location downtown-an old café that served as a hub for those in the know. There, he'd share information about Khanna's latest moves and finalize plans for the next phase of his operation.
Suddenly, a black SUV pulled up beside him. Harsh's eyes narrowed. "Get in," a familiar voice called from the driver's seat. It was one of his associates, a man who had been with him for years.
Without hesitation, Harsh opened the door and slid into the passenger seat. "What's the latest?" he asked, shifting his focus.
"We've intercepted communications suggesting Khanna is planning something big. He thinks he's got the upper hand," the associate replied, his tone serious.
