Playful Bet

 Rahul was a talented software engineer living in a small village in Goa. He mostly worked from home, which gave him extra time to focus on his growing interest in the share market. He dreamed of making big profits and securing a better future through smart investments.

Aditi, his recently married wife, had come from a traditional family. She was intelligent, sharp-minded, and always full of clever ideas, but her shy demeanor often overshadowed her wit. Despite their different personalities, they shared a happy life together.

Rahul adored her but He wanted her to be more open, like women from western societies who wore short skirts and dresses even at home.

"Aditi, why don't you try wearing something modern? You would look stunning in a dress!" Rahul would suggest playfully.

Aditi would smile sweetly and counter with her usual calm. "I feel most comfortable in sarees, Rahul. Why should I change when I am happy this way?"

Aditi's quick thinking and ability to deflect Rahul's requests amused him, but he often wished she would take his suggestions seriously.

One warm evening, and Aditi walked into the living room carrying two cups of tea. Rahul sat on the sofa, his laptop open, His usual energy seemed dim. She placed the tea on the table and sat beside him.

Aditi leaned closer. "What happened, Mr. Market Genius? Looks like your prediction didn't work again?"

Rahul sighed, "Don't start, Aditi. I was so sure about this stock. Everything aligned perfectly-the trend, the news. Yet, it didn't move as expected. The market's crazy."

Aditi smirked, crossing her arms. "Maybe it's because you didn't listen to me last week when I told you to invest in that fashion startup."
but you ignored me. And guess what? It doubled in value."

Rahul rolled his eyes. "Oh, come on. That was pure luck, Aditi. You got lucky. The market doesn't work on random guesses or gut feelings."

Aditi raised her eyebrows. "Excuse me? Who said it was a gut feeling? I analyzed the trends and the company's growth. It wasn't luck, Rahul, it was research."

Rahul chuckled. "Research? Come on, Aditi. Women don't analyze the market. You go with your gut, and if it works, you call it skill. It's not your fault-it's just how women are wired."

Aditi's jaw dropped. her playful mood was replaced by determination. "Seriously? You think women can't analyze the market?"

Rahul shrugged. "It's not personal. I'm just saying women don't have the patience for technical analysis. It's all emotion and instinct."

Aditi's face hardened. "Oh, really? Then why don't we make a fair challenge and prove who's better at analyzing the market?"

Rahul raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A challenge? How?"

Aditi leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with determination. "We'll both invest equally. For one week, we'll trade in the market and invest however we want. On Friday evening, we'll compare the results. Whoever makes the most profit wins."

Rahul chuckled, shaking his head. "A whole week? Why not just one day? I could beat you in a day."

Aditi smirked. "One day isn't enough to prove anything. A week will show consistency, not just luck."

Rahul thought for a moment, then nodded. He didn't want to take chances on her luck working for just one day. "Fine. A week it is. But let's make it interesting. What's the prize?"

Aditi leaned back, confident. "The loser has to do whatever the winner says. Agreed?"

Rahul grinned, an idea forming in his mind. "Alright. If I win, you have to wear a western dress of my choice this weekend. And we'll go on a long drive together."

Aditi raised an eyebrow. "You've been waiting for a chance to make me wear a dress, haven't you?"

Rahul laughed. "Maybe. But are you scared you'll lose?"

Aditi smiled. "Not at all. And if I win, you'll do whatever I say. Deal?"

Rahul extended his hand. "Deal."

On next Monday morning, the competition began. Both Rahul and Aditi deposited ₹50,000 each into their trading accounts.

Rahul, as usual, relied on technical analysis and long-term research. Monday and Tuesday were excellent for him, with a pharmaceutical stock giving him significant gains. By Tuesday night, he was already picturing his victory and imagining Aditi in the western dress he would pick.

Aditi, on the other hand, focused on emerging industries. She spotted a green energy company with potential and invested heavily. Quiet and composed, she made her trades without revealing much to Rahul.

The agreement was clear-they would reveal their portfolios only on Friday evening.

On Friday evening, the couple sat on the sofa, their laptops open. Rahul leaned back confidently, sipping his tea.

"Alright, Aditi," he said with a grin. "Let's get this over with. Prepare to admit defeat."

He opened his portfolio and turned his laptop toward her. "Look at this-₹14,570 net profit this week. One of my best weeks ever. Beat that!"

Aditi smiled, unimpressed. "Not bad, Rahul. But let's see how I did."

She opened her portfolio and showed him the screen. Rahul stared in disbelief.

"₹21,890 net profit?" he exclaimed, leaning forward to double-check. "How is that even possible? That's more than my career-best week!"

Aditi grinned. "Remember that green energy company I mentioned? It had a breakthrough announcement on Thursday. And that fashion startup you mocked? It surged again after another viral campaign. Looks like my gut feelings were spot-on."

Rahul leaned back, stunned. "I can't believe this. Even when I'm at my best, you still beat me."

Aditi laughed, patting his shoulder. "Guess women can analyze the market after all, huh?"

Rahul shook his head, smiling despite his defeat. "Fine, you win. I'll do whatever you say. But don't rub it in too much, okay?"

As the couple laughed and teased each other, Rahul couldn't help but admire Aditi's sharp instincts and determination. Maybe next time, he'd think twice before underestimating her.

Aditi smirked. "Oh, I'm going to enjoy this weekend. Let's just say you'll be getting a taste of your own challenge."

Rahul sighed, smiling. "Alright, So What do you want me to do?"

Aditi leaned in, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, don't worry. I already think of something... special."

Rahul's expression shifted to slight fear. "So, what is it? Tell me."

Aditi crossed her arms, her smile widening. "Well, as you wanted me to wear a dress of your choice on a long drive with you, I think it's only fair that now you wear something of my choice on our drive tomorrow."

Rahul frowned, confused. "What does that mean?"

Aditi leaned back, enjoying his confusion. "Simple. Tomorrow, when we go on the long drive, you will wear a saree."

Rahul's jaw dropped. "What? No way! That's not fair! Why should I wear a women's dress?"

Aditi laughed, shaking her head. "Hey! If I had lost, I'd have worn a short skirt, even though it makes me feel uncomfortable and awkward. It's only fair, Rahul. A bet is a bet."

Rahul hesitated. But then he realized that the new highway they planned to go was mostly deserted-just 80 kilometers of smooth road, with only a few empty farm houses along the way. He thinks he can pull this off easily.

"Fine," he said reluctantly, trying to reason it out. "I'll do it. But on one condition."

Aditi raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What's that?"

Rahul smirked. "If I do this, you have to wear that short dress, after we return home, just for me, when we're alone."

Aditi rolled her eyes, laughing. "Fine, deal. I'll wear it for you"

The next morning, the couple slept a little bit late, enjoying the weekend. By the time they had breakfast, it was nearly 12:30 PM.

"Alright," Aditi said, "Time to get started with your makeover!"

With a resigned sigh, Rahul nodded,

Aditi started by heating the waxing strips. Rahul frowned, watching her. "Wait, what's that for?"

"Your arms and chest. We need to get rid of the hair," Aditi said, holding up a strip.

Rahul resisted. "Why? The bet was just about the saree, not this!"

Aditi put her hands on her hips. "Rahul, do you want to look convincing or not? If someone sees hairy arms in a saree, they obviously get doubts. So Just cooperate, and you'll get your treat when we're back."

Rahul groaned. "Is this really necessary? Can't I just wear the saree and be done with it?"

Aditi smirked. "If we don't do this properly, you'll end up looking like a clumsy transgender (kinner), and that would be even more embarrassing. Just trust me, and let me handle this. You'll thank me later."

Grumbling, Rahul finally gave in. Aditi carefully waxed his arms and chest, leaving his skin smooth and soft.

"You know," Aditi teased, "you already had such smooth skin. This makes it even better!"

Rahul blushed but didn't respond.

Once his body was waxed, Aditi handed him a pair of women's undergarments. Rahul stared at them in disbelief. "You're joking, right?"

"Nope," Aditi said, grinning. "These are part of the package. Now, go change into them."

With a deep sigh, Rahul did as he was told. When he returned, Aditi couldn't help but laugh. "See? You're looking too cute in that!"

Next, she pulled out a pair of water balloons filled with water and placed them carefully in his bra to give him the perfect shape. Rahul looked down, blushing furiously.

Aditi teased. "You already have a bit of a round butt, so we don't need any padding there.

Then, she helped him wear a yellow petticoat and blouse. "Thank god, we're the same height and build," she said, adjusting the fitting of the blouse. "It's almost like it's stitched for only you."

Finally, she draped the saree over him, taking her time to make sure it looked elegant. When she finished, Rahul stood there, blushing furiously.

"I feel ridiculous," he muttered.

Aditi stepped back, admiring her work. "Ridiculous? You look amazing! Just wait until I'm done with the final touches."

Aditi added small accessories: thin anklets, a delicate necklace, tiny jhumkas, and a simple ring. Then, she moved on to makeup.

"Minimal is key," she said, applying eyeliner, a small bindi, and a soft maroon lipstick.

As she finished, "Now, let's see if this lipstick is smudge-proof." Saying this she leaned in, cupped his face in her hands.  Before Rahul could get, she kissed him passionately, he couldn't react, he melted in her arms, just closed his eyes and let her suck his lips.

As they pulled back, he shocked. "What was that for?"

Aditi grinned mischievously. "Just testing the lipstick. Don't worry, it passed the test-it didn't smudge!"

Rahul couldn't help but smile, shaking his head. "You're unbelievable."

Wait," she added, pulling out a long, silky black wig from a box. "This will complete the look." She carefully placed the wig on his head, adjusting it until it looked perfect.

When Aditi finally took him in front of a mirror, Rahul was stunned. He couldn't believe his reflection. He looked... convincing. Just like a real woman.

"See?" Aditi said proudly. "Told you I'd make you look perfect. No one will doubt you!"

They waited until 6:30 PM, allowing the light to dim before heading out. They decided to drive only 40 to 50 kilometers before turning back, ensuring they'd be home within two hours. Rahul was nervous but calmed himself, remembering the empty stretch of highway.

"Let's go," Aditi said, grabbing Rahul's hand and tugging him toward the door. "It's time to enjoy our long drive."

Before Rahul could argue, Aditi tossed the car keys toward him. "You're driving."

Rahul caught the keys. He looked down at his saree-clad figure. "This feels so awkward."

"Come on," Aditi teased. "No one's going to see us on the highway."

Rahul reluctantly slid into the driver's seat. As he gripped the steering wheel, his bangles jingled softly. He glanced at his reflection in the rearview mirror, and checked his reflection again, still amazed and embarrassed at how convincingly feminine he looked.

Aditi leaned over and playfully adjusted his pallu and put it on his lap. "Don't forget to sit properly, Mrs. Riya," she teased, laughing.

Rahul raised an eyebrow. "Riya? Who's that?"

Aditi smirked. "You, silly! That's your name when you're in this saree. Riya suits you perfectly."

Rolling his eyes, Rahul adjusted the seat and started the car. "Very funny. Let's just hope we don't run into anyone we know..."

With Aditi teasing him all the way, they finally set off. Within a few minutes, they were on the highway, surrounded by the dimming evening light.

Aditi played soft music on the stereo, singing along to songs. She leaned over to adjust Rahul's pallu again.

"Careful, don't mess it up!" Rahul scolded lightly.

"Oh, come on," Aditi teased. "You should thank me for making you look this gorgeous."

Rahul rolled his eyes, but a small smile tugged at his lips. "You know, this isn't as bad as I thought it would be. But don't get any ideas about making this a regular thing."

Aditi laughed. "I'm just glad you're being a good sport. Honestly, you look so natural, it's almost scary how well you pull this off."

Then she opened the sunroof and poked her head out, letting the wind play with her hair. "This feels amazing!" she shouted over the rush of air. Her hair flew wildly, and she stretched her arms out like she was in a movie.

"Aditi, sit down," Rahul called, his voice edged with worry. "What if someone sees us?"

"Relax," Aditi replied, laughing. "No one's here! It's just us."

Rahul shook his head, focusing on the road. Now slightly more comfortable in the saree and heels, adjusted his posture. but couldn't help feeling self-conscious every time his pallu slipped or his bangle jingled as he turned the steering wheel.

After some time, Aditi ducked back into the car and said, "Alright, Riya, can I take over now?"

Rahul groaned. "Why do you want to drive?"

"Come on, Rahul. You know I'm good at driving, and this empty road is perfect for me to gain more confidence."

After a moment's hesitation, Rahul agreed. They pulled over and switched seats. Aditi adjusted the mirrors and started driving smoothly.

As the car picked up speed, Aditi teased, "Why don't you have some fun now? Open the sunroof and feel the breeze."

Rahul shook his head firmly. "No way. That's too risky."

"Oh, come on, Riya!" Aditi teased. "Look around. It's almost dark. No one can see you!"

Rahul hesitated but finally gave in. "Fine," he muttered, standing up through the sunroof.

The cool breeze hit his face, and all his long hair covered his face. "Tuck your hair behind your ear, Riya," Aditi called out, mimicking the gesture with her own hand.

Rolling his eyes but secretly amused, Rahul mimicked her. He felt the breeze against his navel, the saree brushing lightly against his skin, and the cool air slipping through the open-back blouse. It was a strange but oddly refreshing experience.

When the chill got to him, he sat back down, pulling the pallu over his shoulders. Aditi couldn't help but smile. "You're handling that saree like a pro. An elegant woman indeed!"

Suddenly, the car shuddered and stopped. The engine had shut down.

They were surrounded by pitch darkness, with no sign of civilization nearby.

"We're 50 kilometers from home, and it's already dark out here," he muttered, his voice tinged with worry.

Rahul stepped out of the car and said, "Aditi, press key to open the bonnet."

He lifted it, pausing to tuck his hair behind his ear again before inspecting the engine. "The spark plug broke," he announced grimly.

"What do we do now?" Aditi asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Rahul checked his phone for a signal, shows no signal. "We can't even call anyone for help. I can't let anyone see me like this!"

"Relax," Aditi said. "Someone will pass by eventually. We'll get help."

Rahul sighed. "We've been driving for an hour, Aditi. Did you see any cars? Not even a bicycle!"

Aditi realized the gravity of the situation but tried to stay positive. "Let's try to fix it ourselves."

Rahul sat in the driver's seat, desperately turning the key, but the engine only sputtered. "Come on... just start!" he muttered, frustration growing.

Aditi paced nervously outside, her eyes darting around the dark, empty highway. "We're two women all alone out here, Rahul. This isn't safe!"

Rahul paused, trying to lighten the mood. "Relax, Aditi. I'm trying my best. And by the way, I'm not a real woman" He shot her a playful smirk, hoping to ease her tension.

Aditi chuckled despite herself. "Well, you're convincing enough to make me forget sometimes!"

They spent 30 minutes trying to start the car, but nothing worked.

Just then, headlights appeared in the distance. Aditi waved her hand desperately, and the car slowed down to stop.

Rahul felt a mix of relief and dread. "Finally, some help... hope they didn't recognize me?"

To their surprise, the driver was Rajeev, Aditi's ex-boyfriend from college.

"Aditi! What a surprise!" Rajeev exclaimed as he stepped out of the car.

"Rajeev!" Aditi said, startled. "I didn't expect to see you here."

She quickly explained their situation and how they needed help.

Rajeev glanced at Rahul; his eyes lingering. "And who's this lovely lady?"

"This is Riya, my cousin," Aditi said smoothly, introducing Rahul with a smile.

Rahul blushed but managed a polite nod.

Rajeev bent over to check the car, he looked up at Aditi and Riya with a teasing smile. "You know, it's not good for two hot chicks to be stranded on an empty highway like this," he said with a playful wink, making Rahul's cheeks flush and Aditi smirk knowingly.

Rajeev "It's the spark plug issue. We'll need a replacement."

He turned back to them. "My farmhouse is just a few kilometers away. I have tools there, and we can figure something out."

He offered to tow their car. As they hooked up the vehicles, Rajeev said, "One of you can sit with me in my car."

Rahul immediately suggested, "Aditi, you go with him. I'll handle our car."

But Rajeev smiled at Rahul. "Why don't you come with me, Riya? Let Aditi handle the car."

Aditi smirked mischievously. "Enjoy your ride with your man, Riya. I'll manage here."

With no other choice, Rahul got into Rajeev's car, sitting stiffly in the passenger seat.

During the drive, Rajeev kept glancing at Rahul. "So, Riya, what do you do? Studying? Working?"

Rahul, trying to sound feminine, replied, "I... I'm working."

Rajeev smiled. "You have a lovely voice. Where are you from?"

Rahul answered as vaguely as possible, trying not to falter.

When they reached the farmhouse, Rajeev invited them inside. He brought snacks and drinks while searching for a spare spark plug.

After a while, he returned, shaking his head. "I don't have one here. But my employee is coming in the morning—I'll ask him to bring it. But you'll have to stay the night."

He smiled at Rahul. "That way, I'll also get to know more about Riya."

With no other option, they agreed to stay overnight.
As they settled at the farmhouse, Rajeev suggested they enjoy some drinks and have a campfire to lighten the mood. Aditi and Riya agreed, feeling the weekend spirit and wanting to make the most of the unexpected turn of events.

The three of them gathered around the crackling fire, glasses in hand. Rajeev and Aditi reminisced about their college days, laughing over old pranks, trips, and shared memories. Riya sat quietly, occasionally nodding or smiling but keeping her answers short when asked something. Her discomfort was clear, though she tried her best to play along.

Sensing Riya's hesitance, Rajeev shifted his focus toward her. "So, Riya, what's your story? Aditi tells me you're quite special," he said with a charming smile.

Riya, feeling the weight of his gaze, stammered, "I... I'm..... Nothing special." She quickly excused herself, muttering about needing the washroom.

As soon as Riya disappeared into the house, Rajeev turned to Aditi, his curiosity piqued. "Aditi, I have to say, Riya is... different. I'm really attracted about her. How do I win her heart in one night? I think I'm really drawn to her."

Aditi couldn't hold back her laughter. Rajeev frowned, clearly confused but waiting for her to explain.

Just then, Riya returned, noticing the amused look on Aditi's face and Rajeev's puzzled expression. "What's so funny?" she asked warily.

Aditi grinned mischievously. "Riya, Rajeev here has fallen for your charm and wants you as his girlfriend. What do you say?"

Riya froze, her face turning red with embarrassment. Rajeev looked at her expectantly, his eyes filled with hope. Aditi, on the other hand, was enjoying the situation immensely, her smile growing wider.

Riya stammered, "Aditi, you know the reality! How can I even answer that?"

Aditi leaned back, crossing her arms with a smug smile. "Rajeev, I think it's time you learned the truth. I'm really sorry for breaking your heart, but Riya isn't who you think she is. Riya... is my husband, Rahul."

Rajeev's eyes widened in disbelief. "What?" he whispered, looking back and forth between Aditi and the demure figure of Riya.

Aditi explained everything-the bet, the transformation, and their long drive adventure.

As Rajeev processed the truth, his jaw dropped. "Are you serious, Aditi? This... this gorgeous woman is your husband?"
He leaned back in his chair, "Man I can't believe this beautiful woman in front of me isn't a real woman?"

Aditi grinned mischievously. "Well, yes."

Rahul, still maintaining his female persona, responded in his male voice. "Yes, Rajeev. I'm really sorry for the confusion. But I'm truly thankful for your help tonight. If you hadn't been there, we might have ended up in a really bad situation."

Rajeev shrugged, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Hey, no need to apologize. Honestly, I haven't had this much fun in ages. Rahul-uh, Riya. But I do have one question,"

Rahul looked at him nervously, curiosity dancing in his eyes. "What is it?"

Rajeev smirked. "Can I still call you Riya for the rest of the night? I mean, the illusion is so perfect, it feels weird calling you anything else."

"Definitely!" Rahul replied, relieved.

Aditi, teasingly, "But you can't tell anyone, okay? Let's keep this between the three of us."

Rajeev raised his glass, "Of course. To secrets, friendships, and... unique experiences!"

After a few more pegs, Rajeev sighed dramatically, his voice playful yet a bit wistful. "I really feel heartbroken, you know? Not only is Riya actually a real male, but also a married one! If you were unmarried, Riya, I would definitely propose to you to marry me, even knowing you're a man."

Riya blushed, her cheeks turning a lovely shade of pink. "I don't know what to say, but really, thanks for all the compliments!"

Aditi, always ready to tease, said to Riya, "I think this heartbroken man deserves a dance with you, Riya"

the tension easing due to the drinks. Riya's eyes sparkled with mischief as she replied, "Why not? I'd love to dance with this handsome hunk!" She winked playfully.

They laughed and made their way inside the farmhouse. Aditi quickly turned on some romantic music, Aditi leaned back on the couch, sipping her drink, her gaze fixed on the two figures in front of her.

Riya turned to Rajeev, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Shall we dance?"

Rajeev took Riya's hand, pulling her close. They swayed together under the soft lights, the soft jingling of her anklets filled the room. As they danced, Rajeev's hands began to explore, gently resting on Riya's back and sliding down to her waist. The soft fabric of the saree seemed to invite his touch. The heavy alcohol dulled their inhibitions, heightening the intimacy.

Leaning closer, Rajeev whispered, "You look beautiful, Riya," With that he leaned in and kissed Riya softly on the lips. The kiss was tentative at first but quickly deepened as they surrendered to the moment.

Aditi watched in shock, her heart racing at the sight, knowing that they were crossing the line, but she did not stop them.

When Rajeev and Riya pulled apart, their eyes met, filled with unspoken desire. Aditi, smiled, but remained a spectator, feeling the thrill of the unexpected encounter.

"Shall we continue this in the bedroom?" Rajeev suggested

Riya hesitated, glancing at Aditi, who simply raised her glass and smiled. "Go on," she said playfully.

Rajeev extended his hand toward Riya, who hesitated before nodding. He led both women to the bedroom,

Riya stepped closer to the bed, the soft jingling of her anklets filling the silence. She sat down gracefully, her saree flowing around her. Rajeev approached her with a soft smile, his eyes filled with admiration.

With a swift motion, Rajeev gently guided Riya to lie back on the bed, his hands brushing over the silky fabric of the saree. "You're stunning," he whispered, his eyes locking with hers. "Almost too real."

Riya blushed, her cheeks glowing. "Don't overdo it," she murmured, with a nervous smile.

Rajeev chuckled, his fingers trailing lightly over her waist. "Relax. Tonight, you're not Rahul. You're Riya. Let's make it memorable."

Their lips met again, this time more passionately, their hands exploring each other with growing fervor.

Aditi sat on the couch near the bed, pouring herself another drink. She watched, sipping slowly, her eyes fixed on her husband as he began to lose his hesitation, and transformed completely into Riya.

"You're doing great," Aditi teased, her voice light with humor.

Riya smiled shyly, the nervousness in her eyes slowly fading. As Rajeev carefully unwrapped the saree, Riya's body trembled with a mix of nerves and excitement. The cool air brushed against her skin as the fabric fell away.

Rajeev trailed kisses down her neck and collarbone, Riya let out a soft gasp, tilting her head to give him better access. A shiver ran down Aditi's spine as she witnessed this unexpected transformation, her husband becoming someone entirely new, his movements feminine and inviting.

Rajeev leaned in for another kiss, "You're a natural," he whispered, his lips brushing her ear.

Riya giggled softly, running her fingers through his hair. "I've had a good teacher," she teased, glancing at Aditi, who smiled proudly. "I taught him well," Aditi said, with sarcasm.

Rajeev laughed softly before his attention returned fully to Riya. He lifted her legs gently, resting them on his shoulders. "Shall I go further?" he asked, his voice husky with desire.

Riya nodded, her voice trembling with anticipation. "I want this... badly," she whispered, pulling him into another kiss.

Rajeev pushed his dick inside her in one smooth motion, Riya gasped, her hands clutching the sheets tightly. She let out a soft moan, her body arching with pleasure. Her moans grew louder as Rajeev moved rhythmically, his body stroking against her butt.

"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Aditi teased; her tone playful as she sipped her drink.

Riya turned her head slightly, meeting Aditi's gaze with a smirk. "I'm putting on a show for you, baby," she replied with a breathless smirk, her words trembling with pleasure.

"God, she's good at this," Aditi muttered to herself, sipping her drink, her eyes glued to the scene unfolding before her.

Riya's moans filled the room, mingling with Rajeev's grunts of satisfaction.

Rajeev's movements grew more intense, his hands gripping Riya's hips as he brought her closer to the edge. Their bodies moved in perfect harmony, the tension building until a final, powerful thrust left them both trembling.

Rajeev released himself with a deep groan, collapsing onto Riya's chest. Riya wrapped her arms around him, her body still shaking from the experience.

Aditi sat frozen, a strange knot forming in her stomach—a mix of jealousy, pride, and curiosity. She watched as Rajeev leaned in to kiss Riya deeply, one last time, their lips lingering together.

As exhaustion took over, Rajeev and Riya lay entwined on the bed, their breaths slowly evening out. Aditi, finishing her drink, slipped into a light sleep on the couch, a faint smile playing on her lips. Tonight, had been a revelation—one that none of them would forget.