Understanding love

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As the days passed at the Khurana household, Randhir found himself increasingly aware of the dynamics between Aadarsh and his family. Each morning, as Aadarsh woke up and performed his rituals, Randhir would watch how Suman, his mother, always doted on him, never allowing him to lift a finger around the house. Aadarsh was treated like a princess—his younger brothers would rush to do whatever he asked, their playful banter filled with affection. 

Randhir would often catch Karan and Arjun playfully competing to see who could bring Aadarsh his chai first or who could help him the most with his chores. It was a sight that warmed Randhir's heart but also made him reflect on the stark contrast to how Aadarsh had lived in his own home. He remembered the stories Aadarsh had shared about his life before marriage, how he had been responsible for most of the household work, often juggling tasks with just one maid to help. It was evident that Aadarsh had always found joy in those responsibilities, but seeing him treated so lovingly now filled Randhir with a sense of admiration.

One afternoon, while they were all sitting in the garden, Randhir couldn't help but bring it up. "You know, Aadarsh," he said casually, leaning back in his chair, "your brothers are really protective of you. I've never seen anyone take care of their sibling like that." 

Aadarsh chuckled, a bright smile lighting up his face. "Oh, they can be quite the handful! But I think it's sweet. They've always been like that. I guess I'm just lucky to have such a caring family." 

Randhir nodded, a soft expression crossing his face. "It's nice to see how happy you make them. It's... different from how I grew up." He paused, contemplating his own upbringing. "I mean, my family loves each other, but we don't really show it like this."

Aadarsh's gaze turned serious. "You have your own ways of showing love, Randhir. It doesn't have to be the same as mine." 

Randhir could feel the warmth spreading in his chest at Aadarsh's words. He appreciated the understanding and acceptance that came so naturally to him. Over time, he began to realize that Aadarsh wasn't just his wife; he was becoming a friend, someone he enjoyed being around. 

In the evenings, as they spent time together, Randhir started to notice little things about Aadarsh that he hadn't before. The way Aadarsh's eyes sparkled when he talked about something he was passionate about, or how his laughter filled the room, making everything seem lighter. Aadarsh was calm, cheerful, and incredibly understanding—qualities Randhir admired more and more each day.

Meanwhile, Aadarsh was beginning to see Randhir in a new light as well. The stoic man he had first married was fading away, replaced by someone warm, caring, and deeply respectful. He loved how Randhir interacted with his family, always valuing their opinions and showing genuine interest in their lives. It was a stark contrast to the persona Aadarsh had imagined based on the stories he had heard from the original owner of his body.

One evening, as they sat together under the stars, Aadarsh turned to Randhir, a playful smile on his face. "You know, you're not as scary as I thought you would be." 

Randhir raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Scary? Me?" 

Aadarsh laughed softly. "Yes! You seemed so serious all the time. But now... you're different. You actually enjoy spending time with your family." 

Randhir chuckled, the tension easing in his shoulders. "I guess I just needed a reason to let my guard down." 

Aadarsh looked at him thoughtfully. "Well, I'm glad you did. I'm really enjoying getting to know you, Randhir." 

And just like that, the barriers they had both built began to crumble, allowing a new foundation to form—one built on mutual respect, understanding, and a growing affection that neither of them had expected. As they exchanged smiles, both felt the gentle pull of something deeper developing between them, transforming their marriage from a mere arrangement into a partnership that was slowly blooming with love.

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