The misty hills of Mussoorie enveloped the lavish estate, its twinkling lights reflecting off the manicured lawns. The creme de la creme of society mingled, their designer attire and jewelry sparkling under the chandeliers.

Vedansh stood tall, his tailored suit and confident smile making him the center of attention. Raghav, his childhood friend, nudged him.

"Easy on the drinks, Ved. Someone at home is waiting for you."

Vedansh's gaze drifted, his mind wandering to his wife, Yahvi. He instinctively touched his wedding ring, a habit he'd developed over the past two months.

Home

Once a cold, concrete structure, had become warm and inviting, thanks to her presence.

"Just one more." Vedansh replied, his eyes scanning the crowd.

"By the way, Ved, you're a rockstar. Your parents' business is thriving under your leadership."

Vedansh sipped his drink and looked at his friend. "It's just numbers, Raghav. Means to an end."

Raghav raised an eyebrow. "You're not enjoying the fruits of your labor?"

Vedansh shrugged. "These parties, the glamour... it's all a facade. A distraction from the real work."

Raghav chuckled. "You're still the same Vedansh I knew in school. Always focused."

As they talked, Anaya, his father's business partner's daughter, approached, her stunning gown shimmering with intricate sequins. The strapless design accentuated her toned shoulders, and her raven hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall.

"Vedansh, Raghav, it's so great to see you both!" She said smiling.

Raghav, couldn't help but compliment her. "Anaya, you're looking absolutely stunning tonight."

Anaya's eyes sparkled as she turned her attention to Vedansh. "Vedansh, you're as elusive as ever," Anaya said, her eyes sparkling with flirtation.

Vedansh's expression remained monotone. "Congratulations on the new venture, Anaya."

Anaya's gaze lingered, her voice taking on a possessive tone. "Thanks, Vedansh. I must say, your parents are thrilled about your accomplishments. You've taken their business to unprecedented heights."

Vedansh maintained his professional demeanor, his tone firm but courteous. "Thank you, Anaya. I appreciate your support."

Anaya's eyes locked onto Vedansh's, her voice taking on a sultry tone. "I think our companies could complement each other beautifully. Perhaps we could discuss a potential collaboration?" She said, her hand brushing against his arm.

Vedansh stepped back, creating distance and cut her off, his tone firm but polite. "I'm afraid I'm not interested in discussing business tonight, Anaya. Enjoy the party."

Anaya's smile faltered, but she recovered quickly. "Of course, Vedansh. Perhaps another time."

Vedansh set his glass down. "Raghav, it's getting late. I should head out."

Raghav nodded and turned to Anaya. "Anaya, we should catch up soon. Nice seeing you."

Vedansh moved away, followed by Raghav as Anaya's gaze lingered, her disappointment evident.

Viraj, Vedansh's elder brother, sauntered over, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Still running away from parties, Ved? Some things never change."

Raghav stepped in. "Back off, Viraj. Ved's done more for this family than you'll ever achieve."

Vedansh's eyes locked onto Raghav's, gratitude flickering in their depths. As they made their way through the crowd, Vedansh's parents, Anant and Vedika, intercepted them.

"Vedansh, why are you leaving so early?" Vedika asked, concern etched on her face.

Anant's expression turned disapproving. "You should stay and network, son. These connections are crucial."

Vedansh's mask of politeness slipped, revealing a hint of the forgotten child he once was. "I've done enough for tonight, Dad. I have a life beyond these parties."

With a nod, Vedansh and Raghav bid farewell, leaving the opulent world behind.

As they stepped into the crisp Mussoorie night, Vedansh's thoughts strayed to Yahvi, the one person who saw beyond his mask.

"Raghav, let's get out of here. I have a home to go to."

Raghav smiled knowingly. "That's the difference between then and now, Ved. You've found your true home."

                         
***

As Vedansh drove away from the lavish estate, the winding roads of Mussoorie unfolded before him, a serpentine path lined with pine and deodar trees. The night air carried the sweet scent of blooming rhododendrons, and the misty hills loomed in the distance, their majestic silhouettes shrouded in darkness.

The car glided past the iconic Gun Hill, its peak shrouded in mist, and descended onto the Mall Road, where streetlights cast a warm glow. Tourists strolled along the colonnaded walkways, sipping coffee and enjoying the crisp evening air.

As Vedansh approached his residence, the Camel's Back Road, with its unique rock formation, came into view. The moon cast an ethereal light upon the landscape, and the sound of the Ganga River, flowing through the valley below, created a soothing melody.

Raghav, who had ridden with Vedansh, gazed out at the breathtaking vista. "Mussoorie never fails to mesmerize, does it?"

Vedansh smiled. "It's even more beautiful with Yahvi here."

As they pulled up to the house, Raghav turned serious. "You've found your anchor, Ved. Hold onto it tight."

Vedansh nodded, gratitude welling up in his chest.

Raghav stepped out of the car and clapped Vedansh on the back. "Take care, my friend. Enjoy your well-deserved peace."

Vedansh smiled, "Thanks for being here, Raghav. Drive safe."

With a nod, Raghav slid back into the driver's seat and started the engine. As he pulled away, Vedansh watched, a sense of contentment washing over him.

"Goodnight, Raghav," Vedansh called out, waving.

Raghav honked the horn in response disappering into the night, leaving Vedansh to his tranquil haven.

Vedansh turned toward his house, where Yahvi awaited, his true home.

                       
***

Vedansh's house, nestled in a quiet corner of Mussoorie, was a cozy haven, far removed from the bustle of the town. The colonial-style bungalow, with its wooden facade and sloping roof, blended seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The driveway wound through a lush garden, where rhododendrons and azaleas bloomed in vibrant colors.

As Vedansh stepped inside, the warm glow of the living room enveloped him. Nita Aunty, their loyal house help, sat on the sofa, her eyes watching him with a mix of concern and warmth.

"Why didn't you go home, Nita Aunty? It's late." Vedansh asked, shedding his coat.

Nita Aunty's face creased with worry. "Yahvi beta was in pain, Vedansh. Period cramps. I just checked on her, she's sleeping now."

Vedansh's expression softened, gratitude welling up in his chest. "Thank you, Nita Aunty."

Vedansh glanced at his phone, his brows furrowed. "It's not time yet," he muttered to himself.

Nita Aunty's eyes sparkled with surprise. "You're keeping track of dates, Vedansh?"

Vedansh's cheeks flushed slightly as he looked up. "No, no... just checking."

Nita Aunty's smile hinted at amusement. "It's okay, beta. Happens sometimes."

Vedansh's flush deepened, but he said nothing, recalling Yahvi's first period after their marriage. He had been clueless, but Yahvi's pain had stirred an unexpected tenderness within him.

Determined to do better, he had Googled "how to help your partner during menstruation" that night.

The next day, he discreetly bought sanitary pads, heat packs, and pain relievers, stocking them in their bathroom cabinet. He also made sure to have her favorite snacks on hand - dark chocolate, crackers, and fruit.

He had even set reminders on his phone to track Yahvi's cycle, ensuring he'd be more attentive and supportive.

With a gentle pat on Nita Aunty's shoulder, Vedansh saw her off.
"Get some rest, Aunty. Thank you again."

As the door closed behind Nita Aunty, Vedansh climbed the wooden staircase to his bedroom. The room was cozy, with pine-paneled walls and a plush carpet. A bay window framed the misty hills, now shrouded in darkness.

Yahvi lay curled under a blanket, her face scrunched in discomfort. A hot water bag rested on her stomach, and her hair were tangled across the pillow. Vedansh's heart swelled as he approached her.

He gently brushed strands of hair from her face, his fingertips tracing the contours of her cheeks. Yahvi stirred, her eyes opening lazily.

"Vedansh" she whispered, her voice husky with sleep.

"How are you?" Vedansh asked, his voice soft.

Yahvi smiled tiredly. "Better now that you're here. How was the party? You looked stunning in black."

Vedansh smiled wryly. "Thanks. It was the usual, pretentious smiles and empty conversations."

Yahvi's lips curled. "You're getting cynical."

Vedansh shrugged. "Maybe. But I'd rather be here with you."

Yahvi's eyes softened.  "I'm glad you're home safe."

Vedansh's expression turned serious. "You should have told me about the cramps. I would've come home sooner."

Yahvi's cheeks flushed. "It's okay, I managed. Nita Aunty took care of me."

Vedansh's fingers intertwined with hers. "Next time, tell me. Please?"

Yahvi nodded. "I will."

Vedansh's lips brushed against Yahvi's forehead, a gentle kiss.

"Sleep. I will go take a shower." he whispered, his breath caressing her skin.

He stood up, his eyes never leaving hers, and Yahvi nodded, snuggling deeper into the blanket. As Vedansh headed to the bathroom, the sound of the shower filled the air.

The warm water cascaded down Vedansh's tense muscles, easing the knots in his shoulders. When he stepped out of the bathroom, Yahvi's hand reached out, a silent gesture calling him to her. Vedansh smiled, putting the towel on the chair, and joined her in bed.

As he wrapped his arms around her, Yahvi nestled into his chest, her breathing slowing. Vedansh's fingers tangled in her hair, his touch gentle.

"Sleep." he whispered, his lips grazing her forehead once more. Yahvi's eyelids drooped, a soft sigh escaping her lips.

"Love you." she murmured, her voice almost inaudible.

Vedansh's heart swelled, his own feelings reflected in her words. As Yahvi drifted off, Vedansh's thoughts lingered on their journey, the memories they'd created, and the moments yet to come.

The gentle rise and fall of Yahvi's chest, the softness of her skin against his, and the sound of her gentle breaths lulled him into a peaceful slumber, their bodies entwined, their hearts beating as one.

                              ***