Anaya-His heartbeat

CHAPTER 43

Shivarth
The morning was unusually peaceful, a rare moment I wasn’t sure I deserved but wouldn’t trade for anything. The soft light filtered through the curtains, illuminating her face as she slept soundly in my arms. My fingers unconsciously traced small circles on her back while my eyes roamed over her delicate features.

I couldn’t help but admire her—the way her hair framed her face, the softness in her expression, the way she fit perfectly against me, as if this moment had always been waiting for us. For the first time in a long time, I felt... at ease.

Her lashes fluttered, and she stirred. When her eyes opened, and our gazes locked, I couldn’t stop myself. I leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.

“Good morning,” I murmured, my voice softer than usual.

Her lips curved into a smile. “Good mor—”

Before she could even finish, loud, unmistakable voices boomed from downstairs.

“Bhai! Bhabi! We’re back!” Ayaan’s voice echoed through the house, followed by Samaira’s exaggerated cheer.

Her eyes lit up instantly, that sleepy warmth replaced by pure excitement.

“They’re back!” she gasped, her tone so animated it made my chest tighten.

Before I could even respond, she shot out of my arms like a bullet, tossing on a robe in record time.

“Anaya—” I called out, but it was useless. She was already sprinting out of the room, her laughter trailing behind her like a melody.

I groaned, dragging a hand down my face. “Great timing as always,” I muttered, glaring at the door she’d just flung open.

The warmth she’d left behind in the sheets was already fading, much like my mood. Shaking my head, I sat up, muttering a string of curses under my breath. “Can’t they ever not ruin a moment?”

But even as the irritation simmered, I caught myself smirking. Her happiness was contagious, even when it meant leaving me to sulk alone. Reluctantly, I swung my legs out of bed, determined to keep my annoyance in check—for now.Sitting there, watching Ayaan and Samaira animatedly recount their trip to Anaya, I felt like an outsider. Their laughter filled the space, and though I stayed for a while, I couldn’t bring myself to join in. The gym was calling—my one constant escape from everything. After an intense workout, I headed back to my room, showered, and got ready, assuming the lively trio would have dispersed by now. But no, they were still there, talking and laughing like they didn’t have a care in the world.

Anaya’s voice broke my thoughts as she called me for breakfast. I glanced at them, still in their casual morning state, and told them to freshen up first. But, of course, Anaya, being Anaya, had to assert her authority. “The Supreme Highness will eat first,” she declared, with that stubborn spark in her eyes. I could argue, but what was the point? With a resigned sigh, I let it go and joined them at the table.

After breakfast, Ayaan and Samaira left, giving me a moment alone with her. I stepped into the room to say goodbye, intending to keep it brief, but she stopped me with a cheerful announcement.

“I’m keeping a Karvachauth fast tomorrow,” she said, her excitement practically glowing.

I frowned. I leaned against the doorframe, watching her as she folded her dupatta neatly, her cheerfulness radiating through the room. “Anaya,” I started, my tone firm but softer this time, “this Karvachauth fast… you don’t need to do it. Why are you putting yourself through this?”

She looked up at me, a mix of confusion and determination crossing her face. “It’s not about need, Shivarth. It’s a tradition, and I want to do it. Why are you so against it?”