Edit 12/03/2019: I highly recommend that you read my explanation of the promo and the future storyline to understand why I have decided to write this track in the storyline :) This explanation is essential to understanding Shivaay and Anika's characters and the storyline in the long run along with how Anika will become a stronger woman.

https://www.wattpad.com/811896793-learning-to-love-him-again-jasmine%27s-explanation

Cover Photo Credit: Pininterest

Edit: I posted a preview of the upcoming chapters for "Learning to Love Him Again" as the next update will be back on December 19, 2019.

https://www.wattpad.com/811301711-learning-to-love-him-again-long-mid-winter-season

______________________________________________________________________________

Hi everyone :) I want to begin by thanking God for His blessings and all readers who have continued to read, support, and appreciate this story. Thank you for making this story trending all week on #13 on the "Ishqbaaaz" tag on Wattpad. This truly means a lot to me and thank you so much :) I want to thank all of you :)

Part 1 is the longest part and parts 2, 3, and 4 are quite short :) I have received a lot of requests from readers to increase the pace of this story, so this chapter was definitely sped up with a lot of things happening at once. Please let me know if you liked the pace of this chapter or if you would want the pace of the story to be a little slower.

Now, I want to begin by saying that I was in a lot of pain when writing these chapters as my back is not doing so great recently. Thus, I was contemplating whether on updating or not and even posted an announcement I will not be posting the chapter, but at the end decided to post what I had since I have been getting a lot of requests on posting an update. I was not able to fully edit these chapters due to my pain, but I have worked really hard on all 4 parts of this chapter and put in the best I could.

I am not sure if you will like this chapter, but this chapter is really focused on a love confession and Anika's upcoming wedding sequence.

The next update may take a while as I will be writing Anika's wedding sequence and Armaan's exit from the story.

I tried my best in writing this chapter. I intended to write more of a Diwali special chapter, but at the end this chapter became a special in its way as it showed multiple events from fashion show to Diwali and then the Shivika scenes as well. So, I am not sure what to all this chapter as of now.

If you wish to encourage me to continue writing, then if you liked this chapter, if you wish you can upvote on this chapter.

P.S. I have just posted a new Shivika FF: "Our Forbidden Love" on Wattpad that explores a young Anika falling in love with a much older Shivaay Singh Oberoi during her sister and ex-fiancé's destination wedding.

https://www.wattpad.com/810326098-our-forbidden-love-chapter-1-a-romantic-encounter

This story is a rendition to "Learning to Love Him Again" as there are some similarities and big differences with a stronger Anika being the big difference. If possible please do click the link below and read this story :) Thank you :) I am still considering whether I should continue writing this story, so if possible please do let me know if like the concept once you read the story :)

https://www.wattpad.com/810326098-our-forbidden-love-chapter-1-a-romantic-encounter

________________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 27 Part 1

https://youtu.be/Fbu81nRCh2U

Waves of red mixing with swirls of purple and yellow obscured my vision as I looked up at the beautiful sun light shining above us making its way through the sunroof.

I giggled loudly losing myself in utter mesmerization of beauty surrounding me. My white dupatta flying up in the air as I held on to it tightly turning back on my feet. Shyness overcoming me as I smiled looking back at the figure in front of me. His face blurred as he appeared to hide himself in the ropes of mystery.

"You can't catch me!" I yelled loudly as I laughed and ran my hands through a fresh pair of rose petals throwing them back at him.

His hand grabbing on to my wrist pulling me back as he wrapped his hand tightly around my waist. My breath stopping for a moment as his touch elicited a rage of passion that I had secretly buried within myself.

His cold, tender hand running along the side of my shoulder as I tilted my head as unknowingly seducing him as I exposed my bare skin to him.

I heard him take a deep sigh as his hands ran through my hair moving it away from my shoulder. I took a deep breath as I felt his lips lay tenderly on to my shoulder making my heart skip a beat. His lips acting as an illusion as they appeared to tantilate the edges of my skin by running across it. A small smile appearing across my lips as he ran his hands through the side of my waist making me more submissive to his seduction.

"I love you..." The three words slipping out like a tiny whisper out of me as I felt him smile against my shoulder.

"I know..." He softly spoke before he grabbed on to my legs lifting me up in the air as I screamed hiding my face into his chest. Shyness erupting inside of me as I felt my cheeks burning like hot tomatoes. Buriing my face deeply into his chest, I breathed against it as I seduced him in my smallest ways.

He chuckled as I rested my lips against his chest. My hands playing with the buttons of his white cotton shirt as I didn't look up not once attempting to discepher the blurry figure in front of me.

A round bed awaiting in front of me as I giggled nervously as he carried me towards it. Without a second thought, he laid me down on the bed of rose petals as the rose petals immediately splashed up in the air like confetti beginning to fall over the both of us as I giggled feeling mesmerized by enigma standing in front of me.

My hands immediately laying down on to my lower stomach as my vision began to clear up realizing who it was....

"Shivaay..." I whispered with a heavy breath as my heart continued to pound loudly against my chest.

I laid in silence completely spellbound by him and his mysterious aura. An unusual desire to touch that mystery he held.

He smiled before leaning over me placing his hands above my head. His eyes lowered as he licked his lips looking at me. His face leaning closer to mines' as I took a deep breath clenching on to the bed sheet feeling utterly vulnerable to his seduction.

My hand slowly reaching out to his face as I admired his soul reaching eyes...reflecting finally the love he had for me.

"Love me. Choose me..." I whispered as he smiled and kissed the palm of my hand.

His eyes showing a deeply held passion for me...passion to have me...to possess me. My heart continuing to skip on its beats as he leaned over me lifting his body up as I laid against the bed mesmerized by him.

My stomach attempting to suck itself in as I felt his fingers trace against the edges of it before he placed his cold palm against my stomach lifting the white cotton edges of my suit.

The heats of our bodies continuing to emit against one another as Shivaay smiled before placing his forehead against mine. I smiled and leaned his face closer to mines', tracing my finger across his lips as I held an ache to touch them. Without any hesitation, I laid my lips against the corner of his lips...tenderly touching them and feeling a desire to soon capture them.

Shivaay smiled as he pulled his face away slightly before I felt him beginning to caress the lower edges of my stomach sending a shiver down my spine.

"Love us. Choose us Anika..."He whispered as I smiled before pressing my lips against his shoulder kissing it.

"Yes, always us...Shivaay...just you and me...and Chaaya..." I whispered as I felt an unusual ache inside of me. Shivaay chuckled lightly against my ear before brushing his cheek against me and looked back at me into my eyes.

His hand laying against the bare skin of my stomach and continuing to caress it.

"Love us Anika...love us...don't forget about them..." He whispered as he captured his lips on to mines'...

...

My eyes flew up as air wheezed loudly though my throat immediately sending me a hard push. Strands of hair flying up in the air as the darkness of the night welcomed me...

My heart beating loudly as it drummed itself against my chest like a hidden butterfly. My hands trembling as I quickly grabbed the glass of water gulping it down with an attempt to make its coolness to calm me down. The dream continuing to run across my eyes as I rubbed them trying to assure myself that what I just experienced was a dream.

Goosebumps arising across my body as sweat prerspirated down my neck. I took a deep breath as I laid my head against the back of bed.

What was that? Love us...don't forget about them...That unusual statement ringing in my ears as my brain swirled in confusion after waking up from deep sleep. My mind trying hard to focus upon the reality in front of me convincing me that what I just saw was a dream and not my reality.

My reality is this darkness, seen in this room, that seemingly catches on to me. The wind whistling loudly outside my window as it merged with the thundering sound of rain.

Loneliness. This is my reality. A reality I cannot escape from at the moment.

But, I was not alone in this dream. Happiness, fantasy, and mesmerization embraced me in this dream.

I smiled slightly as the thought that I had dwelled upon before falling asleep returned back to me. Remembering how Shivaay fought for me...protected me... and even fought for my pride by being arrested and not telling anyone what happened to me...For the first time he cared about me.

It has been four days since the incident and somehow I still cannot forget about it. Shivaay is still lingering in my thoughts and I shamelessly am allowing him to enter them. All day, I continue to think about him...think about how he might be, where he might be, and if he is ok. I remember the happiness I found yesterday when he called me.

Flashback

I wrapped my scarf around my neck tightly as I grabbed my stethoscope ready to resume my duties as a medical resident since my ribcage injury had finally recovered.

I grabbed a lemon taking a whiff of it as I felt a little nauseous. I think I might be becoming lactose intolerant. I heard my phone ring as I looked at it realizing it was Armaan.

Great what does he want? He apologized to me the night after the club incident and I somehow hesistantly forgave him, but have been trying to ignore him. The cowardness he showed at the club and the lack of ability to stand by his family in a hard time has brought a lot of doubts in my mind.

"Hello."

"Good morning Anika. How are you doing?"

"Fine. How are you?" I asked nonchalantly not trying to dwell into further conversation.

"Anika...I am sorry again for what I did that night at the club and the jail...Emotions got the best of me. I mean I was wrong that night in the club and should have reported the men to security, but then I didn't...I was trying to play safe and ensure the night went well, but I was wrong. Also, you know Shivaay and I do not get along and so...."

"You left him in jail without a care...He's your cousin Armaan..." I repeated as Armaan sighed across the line as he appeared frustrated with my persistence.

"I know I am wrong Anika, but you don't know. Shivaay has not treated the family well and so we don't really get along with him..."

"But then you should've supported him that night and perhaps your relationships would have been mended," I argued. I agree Shivaay can be cold and tough. Shivaay is not the emotional type, but still the way I saw his expression drop upon realization that his family abandoned him in jail that night helped me realize that somewhere he does care about his family.

"I know. I will try Anika and mend our relationships, but for now please don't be mad. I want this relationship to work you know..."Armaan said appearing to plead.

"I know, but...I don't know Armaan what I think about us right now...I need time..." I whispered.

"You are a good guy, but I feel like I...I don't know honestly. Can we talk later please? I am getting late for my shift at the free clinic," I noted.

"Ok...but Anika I see us becoming something greater and I hope you understand that. You will see soon know what I mean because you cannot deny the magic we had since the last few weeks which confirms what we can be..."

I sighed as I turned off the call. Magic? Maybe he felt it, but I didn't. I felt happy in his presence, but still empty. I don't see what he see's. Even the choice of his words is so cliché and somehow that makes everything appear farsce.

https://youtu.be/T_u6hmvZ510

Grabbing my purse, I packed my stuff in it as I heard my phone ring once more. My eyes going down towards the name realizing it was Shivaay. My heart instantly skipping a beat. A small smile coming across my lips as I answered it.

"Hey..." His voice deep and husky as he spoke first. Playing with my earring, I twisted it across feeling nervous as I thought of what to say.

"Hi Shivaay...how are you?"

"I-I am good...um...I didn't talk to you since that night, but I wanted to check in and ask how you are feeling now?" Shivaay's voice reflecting a sense of concern.

"I'm good...Ok to be exact. It feels a little weird because of what happened that night... and I...I don't know..." I bit my lip trying not to cry as I remembered how that man had violated my space that night. Somehow I have been having a fear lately while going out in public that the incident might happen again.

"Anika...I assure you that you will be safe. I will protect you ok? Be brave and I know you can protect yourself as well. You have the capability of being a strong person..."

His words cheering me up and bringing a small smile across my face hearing his words come across. The way he said he would protect me making me feel a sense of comfort...his words healing my fear. More than that, the way he acknowledged the fact that I might just be brave brought in an unusual strength in me.

"How do you know that?"

Shivaay sighed as he spoke, "I saw strength in you the night you stood in that empty jail for me...I saw a brave Anika who stood up for me and fought for me that no one else has ever done." I felt my cheeks burn up as he had clearly touched my heart once more.

"I hope the fashion show's organization is going well. I will see you there tomorrow and then of course the Diwali party after the show as well..."Shivaay remarked as he appeared to say the statement in the form of a question trying to assure that I would show up.

"Yes I will be there Shivaay with my family if you are curious..." I said as I giggled not knowing what had overcome me. It has been a while since I have talked in such a normal conversation with Shivaay...actually it has been years since this has happened.

Shivaay chuckled on the other side of the line. "How's your bruise by the way?" I questioned.

"Better...perhaps if I had you by my side then it would have been already healed..." His words making me feel coy as my heart began to flip flop in nervousness as I knew he was flirting with me.

"Oh really? You really think that?"

"I know it Anika...You can be the only healer to my wounds...and I to yours'..."

His words making me hold my breath as I leaned back against the wall clearly becoming intrigued by him.

How I wish you heal my wounds Shivaay? But why did you give me such deep wounds of betrayal. I want to hate you at the moment, but the way you showed that change that night in protecting me, supporting me, and making me feel loved....has intrigued me.

"I-I am getting late....um...what happened about your charges?" I questioned as I broke the conversation and grabbed my purse.

"The prosecutor dropped them of course. Your statement really mattered and thank you for that..." Shivaay said as I smiled once more. I don't know why he is making me feel so gleeful, but he is and I am shamelessly allowing him to do such.

"Ok...I will see you tomorrow then Anika? I actually wanted to talk to you before, but I know you want to keep distance, but then I decided to call today and wish best of luck to you for the fashion show...."

"Well it's a first you listened to me...but anyways...um....Thank you for what you did that night Shivaay...It means a lot....I will see you tomorrow then..."I spoke softly as he sighed before I placed the phone down.

Present

I felt the dream approach me once more as I closed my eyes. A sense of peace approaching me remembering the beauty of the dream. To be loved is the biggest blessing in the world...a blessing everyone wants, but cannot have. To get a taste of this blessing is truly pleasure worthy even if it exists in a dream as a complete illusion.

I have dreamed about Shivaay after so many years since our separation...but it feels awful to have dreamed about him. I feel awful to realize how much pleasure and happiness I found in the dream despite how he has treated me. Why did I dream about us? Why did I dream about our broken love? Is it because Shivaay is beginning to affect me once more seen in ways of seduction by how I was intrigued by him that night and finding that empty feeling inside of me filling up as I enjoyed his presence. Moreover, I fought, with so much passion, for him that night. I did not once care about anyone else besides him...something that I have only did in the past.

Love me Shivaay. Choose me. The phrase suddenly appearing in my thoughts crashing my idealization. The phrase reminding me how many times I used it to call to Shivaay and how he just ignored it and moved forward in further betraying me.

My lips quivered as I felt the remnants of his touch on them from that night. I pushed the back of my hand against my lips trying to wipe off the mere illusion of his touch as I felt disgusted realizing what I did.

Anika...don't you dare find pleasure in his presence. It is wrong of you to once more turn back towards him...but then...why is it that I only find comfort in him? Why is it that he's the only one who fills my loneliness? I cannot deny this fact that I am starting to become attracted to Shivaay once more...attracted to his mystery, his cold demeanor, and his toxicity...His badness attracting me eventhough I know how wrong it is...But still...it's wrong. It's wrong knowing that our relationship has already fallen apart in the past...one can never go back in their steps once signing off the deed of divorce...

Anika, you have to stop...a broken relationship can never be mended again. Do not live in a false reality knowing that it will never become never true. But...then I am seeing hope...That night in the club and the jail, I saw hope for both of us. The way he looked at me with utter passion. The way he held me tenderly in his arms making me feel loved. The way he protected me and fought for my pride and honor that he once himself had stepped upon years ago. I don't know why, but I see hope that something could change between the both of us.

Shivaay's Point of View

The light making itself present as an illusion as it turned it on and off. My eyes following outside towards the rain lost in my thoughts. I laid in silence in my chair flinching slightly with the bruise making itself more apparent across my lips. Anika's touch still lingering there as I remembered her fingertips brushing against it in an attempt to heal the wound...I slightly smiled as I placed my thumb on wound finding her touch in the wound's burns.

"Anika..." I whispered as I remembered her. She being the only one who didn't leave me that night. The hope and eagerness seen in her eyes as she stood waiting outside in the jail for me. Not once running away, but standing still and fighting for me.

God knows how she must have mustered the courage and strength to sit in that jail, give testimonies, and fight for me. God knows how she found my lawyer and got him to come to the jail. Where did she get so much strength from?

There is no doubt that Anika is a strong person, but the way she broke out of her timidness and stood up for me has made me fall in love with her all over again and more deeply this time.

What is Anika made of? Despite how I have treated her and hurt her, she still stood up for me and supported me. Perhaps, she did it out of righteousness, but still...she could've left like everyone else. She could've thought of my arrest as a moment of vengeance for her and justice for her considering I deserved going in jail mainly because of how I betrayed her. However, Anika did not walk away...

Now I know why I love you Anika...you are everything that no one else is. You are the type of woman I have never met before. Your strength lays in your bravery of not giving into revenge, but always standing up to your morals and values. Your strength lays in your ability in not running away, but always standing your ground. Despite how others treat you, you never think ill of them and God I was so wrong in leaving you...You were so right for me yet I left you.

"Papa..." My thoughts breaking away as I heard the timid, innocent voice behind me.

"Chaaya...meri jaan. What are you doing being awake this early in the morning?" I questioned curiously as I got up picking her up in my arms as she rubbed her eyes sleepingly.

I chuckled as I looked at her innocent eyes that had overcome with sleep, but still stubbornly tried to open themselves. She is so similar to Anika in how she behaves. Anika also has a bad habit of waking up this early in the morning and then staying awake until dawn arrives.

Chaaya yawned loudly as she wrapped her arms around me laying her head against my shoulder holding on to her teddy bear tightly.

"Papa...I don't want to sleep...I want to be with you..." She mumbled as I pecked her cheek.

It had been a few days since I had met Chaaya as I had gotten quite busy with the latest project the hospital had acquired recently regarding further expansion into the central valley. Moreover, I was in court trying to get my battery charges dropped by the prosecutor which she somehow did do. Of course, I have to do everything to save myself for Chaaya. Chaaya is my responsibility and I cannot get into more trouble because there is no one else to care for her at the moment.

"I am here dear. Look we ate together last night and then we had story time. I am here for you my jaan..." I spoke softly as I looked into her eyes.

She bit her tongue as she appeared to hold back tears. "Jaan, what is wrong?" I questioned as Chaaya shook her head before hugging me tightly.

"I want you to be here with me all day. I want mommy to be here with me all day!" Chaaya claimed before she began to bawl into tears.

Her tears instantly daggering my heart as I pulled back my tears trying to console her. "Don't worry Chaaya...hm? Soon...we will be together...ok?" I whispered as I stopped myself from saying anything further realizing what I had just said.

God, what have I just said? How can we all three be together? But, then why can't we? That night...I saw something in Anika's eyes that I haven't seen in long. The way she looked at me without any hesitation and anger, but a sense of care and kindness tells me that she is beginning to see me differently. I see that love in her eyes that I haven't seen in a long time...I know she loves me and I love her...we can be together and raise Chaaya together...give her the best life possible...I smiled at the thought as Chaaya turned her head looking at me.

"Together? Who?" She questioned curoiously as I smiled at her innocence.

"All of us meri jaan. All three of us..." I whispered as a wide smile appeared across Chaaya's face.

"Mommy?"

"She will be with us soon meri jaan...Just watch...your mom will come soon..." I said with a sense of determination.

Chaaya began to giggle as she kissed my cheek with pure happiness. "I will see my mommy soon! I will see mommy!" Chaaya yelled loudly as I smiled raising her up in the air as she giggled.

I smiled as I realized that for once happiness was about to touch our lives...for once Anika will be coming back to our life and filling in the emptiness that it has...This time Anika, I will love you more than anything in this world and give you the love you deserve. This time Anika, we will become a family forever. I will do anything to make this dream come true Anika...tonight at the party, I will tell you how much I love you...

Anika's Point of View

I wiped a tear from my eye as I looked at the innocent face in front of me. My hand running across her picture as I held her tightly in my arms the day she was born...Chaaya...I miss you so much meri jaan...Your mom loves you more than anyone and anything in this world...I hope you know that...I took a deep breath as I looked up praying her soul was at peace.

It was almost dawn and as I was getting ready, I had stumbled upon Chaaya's picture I had hid in my closet. Her picture instantly making me stop and reminding me of the horrible memories of the fateful that I had lost her...I don't want to remind myself of that pain, but what can I do?...I cannot forget my daughter...my life...Someone who belonged to me, was a part of me, someone who would never leave me and would always love me the way I would love her.

I wish you were alive meri jaan...Why has fate been so cruel? If fate allowed me to choose between love and my daughter then I instantly would have given up love for Chaaya, but fate decided to steal both from me.

"Anika..." The photo jumping out of my hands as I quickly grabbed it stuffing it behind a pile of clothes. My hands trembling in nervousness as I quickly wiped away my tears.

"I'm in here!" I yelled back as I quickly took out a cardigan from the hanger wrapping it around me.

"There you are beta! I knew you would be awake this early," Mom said with an unusual pleasant smile across her face. Mom is never a morning person and considering she is awake right now with a smile I feel that something is definitely not right.

"Good morning mom," I mumbled as I smiled slightly still feeling a little off as I looked back at the pile of clothes where I had hid Chaaya's picture.

"Ok, come with me. I need to talk to you about something very important." Mom grabbed my hand and dragged me out towards my room.

I looked at her utterly confused trying to figure what she wanted to talk about it as we sat down on my bed.

"What happened mom? Is everything ok?"

Mom smiled as she looked at me. She appeared to contemplate as she attempted to gather her thoughts before speaking. Her cold hands grabbing mines as she grabbed my attention.

"Anika...after so many years I am so happy today..." Mom said with excitement clearly apparent in her voice. I slightly smiled as I looked at her trying to figure what had given my mom such a sudden burst of happiness.

"What happened?" I questioned curiously as Mom squeezed my hand before looking at me.

"I-I cannot express what I feel right now Anika. I have waited for this day for ages and finally it has come. Anika...you are getting married!"

"What?!" The shock erupting through my body acting as a slow poison. My heart beginning to pound as I felt it's pulse at the base of my ears. What is mom saying? My wedding? What is going on? My mind beginning to spin with many thoughts as I stood shell shocked. A sense of déjà vu falling upon me.

"I thought you would be happy! That you would want this!" Mom said excitedly as she grabbed my hand once more.

"Want this! When did I say I want to get married mom?" I questioned as I found myself getting angry minute by minute.

The past cannot be repeating itself so cruelly. This conversation appearing quite similar to one I held with my parents many years ago.

"Listen to me beta...I know why you are reacting like this since you don't know whom you are getting married to, but believe me you will surprised once you find out..."

I raised my eyebrow looking at her in utter confusion.

"It's Armaan beta! I am so happy that Armaan has chosen you to be his life partner and I cannot express in words how happy I was when he brought his parents home to meet both of us..."

My body going cold as my hand slipped away falling against the bed. Disgust, anger, sadness all cruelly mixing with one another and creating a toxic bitterness inside of me upon hearing the ominous gift my mom had laid in my lap.

"Mom...how could you?" I whispered as I bit my lip trying to hold my tears. My vision blurring with them as they forced themselves out of my eyes.

"W-What? What are you saying Anika?" Mom looked shockingly taken aback by my statement. It appeared as if she thought I would be happy and excited with her decision, but rather the opposite happened.

"I cannot believe you would do this once again with me. Before without my permission, you fixed my engagement with Kunal and now Armaan? Mom how could you do this to me? After knowing how much I value my independent right in choosing my life partner. How can you betray me mom?" The moment becoming bitter and furthering my distance from my mother. I had not always been distant from her, but from the day I decided to walk away and be with Shivaay since then everything has been different despite her accepting me back when I returned home after the divorce.

My words touching my mom's sensitive nerve as she slammed her hand against the bed releasing her anger. "Betray?! How dare you use that word against me knowing that you did the ultimate betrayal to your father and I?! You shamed our family and our pride and honor by running away the day before your engagement and now you have the audacity to claim that we are the ones who betrayed you?! Shame on you Anika!"

I leaned back as I distanced myself away from her. Fear rising inside of me as the moment reminded me of my childhood when mom would get similarly angry like this and then...begin throw things, emotionally and sometimes physically becoming abusive. I shut my eyes blocking out the memories as I tried to hold my ground.

I know my mom was right in the sense I did betray her and dad by running away from home, but it's not like they didn't know. They knew how much I loved Shivaay and still for the sake of pride and honor were forcing me into the engagement.

"Mom that time you also failed to listen and now as well you did! You fixed my marriage with Armaan without my permission!"

"Shut up Anika! Just shut up because you clearly need guidance in life! You left your parents before for that damned man and then after he used you and threw you away, we were the ones' there for you that night in the hospital. We were the ones holding you and comforting you and not that damned man!"

Her words sending shock waves through my body. My mom's words instantly piercing small pieces of hope I had gathered...a sense of hope that things were changing between Shivaay and I...A sense of attraction I had begin to build for him once more.

My mom's words bringing a sudden sense of reality back to me as I realized how true they were. How my family was always there for me despite how I treated them and how Shivaay abandoned me.

How can I stand by a man who abandoned me? How can I stop myself from moving on for someone who betrayed me? But...then how can I listen to my parents and move forward with Armaan who can never protect me and maybe someone else than he truly appears?

"How can you now say that you do not want to be with Armaan? You have spent so much time with him since the past few weeks and now you are saying this?"

I sighed as I looked at her. "He may be not who he appears to be...I don't know..." I whispered as I knew I was losing the argument. I want to say so much and let my mom know that I may not be able to build a further relationship with Armaan because he is beginning to put me off now with the attitude he has shown that night.

Armaan did apologize, but I have been ignoring him ever since with responding minimally to his texts and calls. I don't think I see myself with a man like him.

"What are you saying Anika? Armaan is the perfect man for you. He is a complete gentleman and cares for you reflected in how he asked us for your hand in marriage..." Mom whispered. I sighed and did not say another word.

"Anika...you once made a decision for yourself and look what happened...for once listen to your parents..."

I looked at her seeing her eyes filling with tears something that I couldn't bear to see. No matter what type of relationship I share with my mother, but I still love her and I cannot see her upset. Her words do have a point that for once I should trust my parents. Perhaps, I am thinking wrong of Armaan, but then that night what I saw was also a reality.

"Promise me. Promise me Anika that you will marry wherever we decide to get you married..." My eyes widening in shock as mom held out her hand for me to hold on to and make the promise.

"I-I need time mom. I need time to clear my mind and make a decision. Everything is so confusing at the moment..."

"Anika if you love your father and I and if you care for us then for once listen to us and believe our decision will be correct. Promise me that you get married to the person we choose for you..." Mom repeated as I bit my lip contemplating and thinking about what to do.

Anika you once have ruined your life...you once have seen the consequences of what happens when you go with your heart. Don't do this again. Trust your parents and trust their instincts. You have decided to live for your parents and their happiness, so now live up to that and agree.

My hand trembled as I lifted it up and placed it on the palm of my mom's hand. "I promise...." The words barely breaking out of me as I knew that I had signed off my life to my parents right in this instant.

A wide smile appearing across mom's face as she looked at me with tears in her eyes. "I knew my daughter would make the right decision. This is what a good daughter should be...the one who listens and obeys to her parents knowing that they think well of her..." Mom pulled me into a hug as I laid my head against her shoulder. Tears slowly streaming down my cheeks, knowing that now Shivaay can never reach me...knowing I had shattered the last pieces of hope I had...but then that hope was an allusion because Shivaay doesn't love me, so how could I hope that something could change between us?

Shivaay's Point of View

I love you Anika and now I will confess my feelings to you. I will tell everything to you and I will assure you that I will give you your happiness and nothing less than that. I cannot imagine how happy you will be knowing our family is alive...our Chaaya is alive...I am sure you will listen to my story and understand why I hid Chaaya, but before I do this Anika, I have to confess my love for you and make you believe me.

I smiled as I walked down the stairs humming a small tune as I noticed Papa standing in the hallway. His eyebrows furrowed with his hands behind his back as he walked back and forth. Great, this day will definitely start off well. I thought as I rolled my eyes in annoyance.

"Where were you last night? You just came home back an hour ago?!" The questions suddenly thrown at me full of anger and frustration seen in my father's face as I noticed his stick out his lower lip in disgust.

Papa is apparently suspecting that I am having an affair since the last couple of days considering I got arrested for getting into a brawl and saving a woman according to the prosecutor's notes. Of course, Anika's identity is anonymous in the testimonies presented in front of the prosecutor, but Papa is definitely suspicious. How does he know that yesterday I was with my daughter and comforting her as she found herself once again alone?

"For your kind information Papa. This is my life and I can decide what I can do with it and how to utilize it. I don't need your permission." My voice cold as I placed on the cold demeanor. I have learned early on in my life that one can only survive in this brutal world by being equally cold, brutal, and distant even in front of family.

"Oh really? Do you even know what kind of mess you got yourself into by living your so-called life? You went to jail damn it! This news is everywhere in the papers right now and the board of directors of Oberoi Hospitals is very upset with you and are highly questioning your capabilities to run Oberoi Hospitals!"

I sighed as I leaned back against the staircase clearly not in the mood for the argument. "So? Tell the board of directors that the damned charges were dropped and nothing else will happen. Also...tell them that no one else can run Oberoi Hospitals besides Shivaay Singh Oberoi. Make them remember the loss these hospitals faced many years ago and how I got them out of it..."

Papa looked take aback by my change in attitude as he took a step back. I smirked knowing I had won. Papa you made me this way, so now you have to bear me. Don't you dare think that now you have rights on me as a father...you already rosaked them years ago after the way you treated me with neglect.

"How can you continue to talk to you father like this?" Papa's eyes appearing to soften from their usual stance of aloofness.

I shook my head as I walked down the step standing proud and tall in front of him as I leaned my head and looked him straight into his eyes.

"The way he deserves to be talked with. What father? The one who not once has cared about me or even acknowledged my presence? The one who has always sacrificed me for profit. Remember how you sacrificed your son to get married to Tia so you could get money from her father to save Oberoi Hospitals...and remember how I stupidly agreed forsaking...." I stopped as I felt my throat tighten not able to digest the truth...my truth. My lips quivering as I remembered how Tia's family trapped me, manipulated me, and shamelessly used Chaaya's secret...I stopped the thought as I looked into my father's eyes.

"How can you say this? You know how I have always known that you were the rightful heir to the Oberoi empire. I worked these many years for you knowing you were the one and not Om. Then how can you even say such words?"

I chuckled as I took a step away from him. "It's the truth Papa. I know I am the rightful heir and so don't assume that you gave me power to do such because even if you didn't, I would have fought my way up to the Oberoi empire. However, don't deny the way you have treated your family...the way you have forgotten about me and Om...the way you treated my mother all these years...the affairs that you indulged in with female business associates for pleasure and to get money for business. At least I didn't do that..." The words erupting as toxic bitterness I had held for my father for years. Papa furrowing his eyebrows as he took a large step towards me.

"Shivaay!" Papa screamed before giving me a hard push as I stumbled back knowing Papa finally heard his truth...his reality...My eyes looking up towards his face as I saw something that I had wanted to see for years. The fear, the shame, the humiliation all apparent.

Laughter erupting inside of me as I chuckled knowing I had succeeded today towards showing my father the mirror. "Shivaay stop it!" I looked up realizing it was Om rushing by his father's side.

I grinded my teeth as I looked at Om remembering how he had forgotten everything about our relationship and abandoned me in jail. His eyes showing fake concern as he held Papa. I could tell he was faking it by that tinge of coldness apparent in his eyes.

"How can you talk to our father like this? I am seriously ashamed of the fact that you are my brother! The way you command yourself in this family is utterly disgusting!" He spat hitting me right in my ego- slashing it and challenging it.

"How dare you talk to me like that in this tone Om? How dare you? Says the man who left his brother to rot in jail. How dare you question my authority and question me? Who are you Om? Huh? Who are you to dare me and challenge me in this manner?!" My voice thundering as it caught attention of Ma and Dadi as they quickly walked towards us.

"Shivaay stop right this minute!" Ma grabbed my arm pulling me back as I shrugged my arm away from hers taking a large step towards Om.

Om appearing furious as he clenched his fists ready to get into a fight with me. I glared at him knowing he definitely deserved a punch for what he did to his older brother. It is disgusting how low your own brother can stoop to for the love of money and power.

"I am a man now Shivaay and you have no right to speak to me in this manner! Do you understand?! It's a shame how Papa thought you were capable for the Oberoi empire and handed you off such a big business!"

"Shut up will you?! What capabilities have you shown in running the Oberoi empire? Weren't you the one who said that you want to begin your own start up company because you didn't want to be part of a legacy company? Wow...the way you change colors..." I yelled as I laughed clapping my hands together.

Om ready to lunge towards me as Gauri held him back. "I will show you the dust one day Shivaay...I will show you the dust..." Om repeated as I chuckled, rolling my eyes at his stupidity.

"What dust? Hm? What dust? I own Oberoi empire. I am the image of this empire and no one can take it from me...not even you." I snapped my finger right under his nose inciting his rage.

"Next time think before you mess with me. No one can take me down besides myself..." I hissed as I looked at Om and back towards Papa. Om's eyes showing revenge as Papa stood still with an unusual, cold expression as he looked at me.

Placing a large smirk across my face, I placed on my sunglasses as I patted Om's shoulder.

"Good luck Om...you might need it..." I whispered as I chuckled before walking out the door.

No one can destroy an Oberoi besides themselves.

The Evening

Anika's Point of View

My hands trembling, slowing down their strength as cold wind hit them. Blowing air into my hands, I continued to tremble as I blew heat in into my hands.

I drank a sip of warm lemon water as I felt my nausea coming back. The nausea had settled down since the past few days, but it had come back again making even my favorite Nutella appear repulsive. I made a disgusted look as the stuffed the bread with Nutella back into my purse.

Mom's words still spinning in my mind and intending to make my lose focus as I looked back at the long line of catered foods in the hotel kitchen.

I tried to focus as I looked at the pasteries that once again were teasing me and telling me to vomit.

Numbness reaching my body and dosing down the flight of emotions I tend to always carry. Free of any emotions at the moment, I walked around in a daze, an unusual habit that I have when I realize the control of my life is slipping out of my hands.

Life indeed has slipped out of my control and can only be played by fate now. Fate has taken guard over it and now I cannot do anything about it. A promise binds me now. A promise to my mother...a promise of marrying the one they choose.

I don't see myself with Armaan...I don't, but then my mom has already decided and I have to trust her. This time I cannot break her trust in me because I have already done it before in foolishness.

Flashback

Thud.

My ears began to ring as mom towered over me as I fell on to the floor. Her eyes full of disappointment, anger, and mostly disgust...disgust that I had lost my pride, honor, and had become touched by a man.

Tears continued to stream down my cheeks as I wiped them away, using my entire force and getting up.

"I love him and I will fight for our love! I am not going to marry Kunal no matter what!" I yelled as Mom lunged towards with Dad holding her back.

"How dare you tarnish my pride like this?! How dare you be with another man? I have not raised you like this Anika!" Mom yelled running towards me as I quickly took a few steps back holding on to the staircase behind me. Fear rushing through me as my heart continued to beat loudly. At that moment, I felt scared of mom...scared what she might do...but then I also gathered some strength from the love I had for Shivaay.

"Mom I love him and love is not a crime! He is a great man and you will like him. Just please listen to me. Do not let your conservativness hold you back and lead you to ruin your own daughter's life!" I argued as Dad took a large sigh looking at me with utter disappointment.

"We don't want to listen about this boy and Anika one thing is straight that you will marry Kunal! You are going to get engaged to him tomorrow and that is final!" Dad yelled back at me. His anger something new that I had not seen before. Indeed, I knew I had hit hard on their core values which they disliked.

"Dad listen to me please! For once listen!" I began to cry as Dad grabbed my arm beginning to drag me up the stairs to my room.

"Dad I love him and I want to marry him. He is going to come to our home and ask for my hand in marriage. Believe me dad. He is just waiting for you both to agree and then he will come. He is far better than Kunal." I placed my hands together pleading him as Dad did not listen to another word.

Dad turned looking towards me in my eyes. I could tell by his eyes that he appeared to be hurt in the way he was treating me, but I could see the determination in marrying me off with Kunal. "Anika...this matter is about our pride...Your taaya ji (uncle's) brought this marriage proposal and I agreed because the boy is from your taayee ji's (aunt's) family...We both know how my family isolated the three of us due to greed, but they are changing beta. They want to improve relations and so do I. This marriage is a great way to do such..."

"By sacrificing your only daughter in a relationship with a man she doesn't love..." I whispered as Dad sighed. I heard mom coming behind as she grabbed my arm.

"Beta...how do you even know that you are in love? How are you sure that this relationship you have is truly based on love and will fulfill you in life? Listen to your parents. We have lived a long life and we have see a lot. We are not fools beta...we know what is right for you, so listen to us..." Dad said placing his hands on my shoulders looking into my eyes.

Tears continuing to trail down my cheeks as I looked back at mom. Mom glared at me before grabbing my arm and pushing me into my room shutting the door behind me.

My hands trembling as I wiped my tears away. I love Shivaay and I cannot see a world without him. I love my parents...but...they have never understood me. It's like I am a commodity to them...a liability...just a responsibility. If my parents loved me then they would listen to me which they haven't. They shouldn't be treating me like I owe them something for how they have raised me. Everyone's parents raise their children and provide for them...it is not an option, but a responsibility endowed by fate. All my life, they have treated me like I am I burden upon them. Neglected me. And now are sacrificing me because Dad wants to reconcile with his elder brother who has treated him like trash all his life.

I cannot let myself continue to be sacrificed....I have never fought for my own happiness, but now I will.

I grabbed my phone quickly dialing the number. The phone ringing before I heard a loud sigh.

"What happened Anika? Did your parents finally agree?" Shivaay spoke with a sense of urgency.

"N-no...I did everything to convince them, but they didn't agree Shivaay...They are getting me engaged to Kunal tomorrow....Shivaay do something...I love you and do something for me..." I began to cry all over again feeling powerless in the moment as I had pleaded to my parents for days without them agreeing.

"Shhh...relax Anika...we will get through this together ok? You and I both will get through this...I want to come and bring the proposal, but how will your parents react? I don't think they will agree considering how much you tried already..." Shivaay said buzzing the words into my ears.

"T-Then what should I do?" I whispered as Shivaay took a deep breath before speaking once again.

"Run away....run away with me...."

My eyes widening as I heard his words...Run away? How could I possible run away from my family? "How can I just leave my parents?"

"I know it is a hard decision, but tell me that don't you love me? Don't you want to fight for me?" He whispered softly. My heart aching as I realized that if I get engaged tomorrow then forever Shivaay will be distanced from me...that a new relationship will break the one that I have with Shivaay....

"I love you Shivaay...I cannot bear to be with anyone else besides you. You make me feel loved...something I haven't experienced in a long time...You complete me in a way that no one else can..."

"Then be with me..." His words in an instant withering down my values and morals...his words strengthening my love...his words mixing foolishness in my mind and clearing out all reasoning. His words appearing genuine telling me that he wanted to be with me as much as I wanted to be with him. Without saying another word, I picked my destiny...my destiny to be with him.

Present

Love makes one a fool and I was a fool myself. Without any worries about my parents and their pride and honor in front of their respective families, I ran away from home that night and married Shivaay in an instant. That fateful night, I for once stood up for my happiness and that one decision that I once took for myself tilted my entire world and ruined me savagely.

If only I had listened to my parents, trusted them, respected them...then this would have never happened. I wouldn't have been ruined the way I was...that night of Shivaay's wedding with Tia...I was in the hospital and feeling alone. In that moment no one came for me except my parents. My parents came and comforted me and wiped my tears without any questions further...they knew I had been wronged and betrayed by my love, but didn't ask anything further. They came despite what I did to them and now it's time I step up to my responsibility as a daughter and accept their decision for their happiness.

"Anika, everything is set up for the fashion show and now we just want you to look at the organization alright? The show is in less than an hour and time means money!" Linda exclaimed as she grabbed my arm and dragged me down the hotel lobby towards the main hall.

"Everything looks lovely Anika and I am sure you will love it!" Linda said giggling as I smiled and walked with her finding myself lost still in my own thoughts.

Shivaay's Point of View

"Dr. Malhotra has done excellent arrangements with the fashion show..." Maxwell, my assistant, told me as the driver drove the car through the hotel's large entrance.

I smiled slightly looking at my file with a sense of pride in Anika. Indeed, I am quite impressed by how Anika handled this charity fashion show all on her own. The vulnerability that she exhibits behind the mask of strength she has is truly enduring and something that entices me. I bit my pen as I looked out the window.

"That's good to hear...Where would she be at the moment?" I questioned curiously as I looked back at Maxwell.

"Um...probably in the main hall where the fashion show is of course sir."

I smiled and shook my head as I gave him back the file. The car parking himself at the entrance as I noticed reporters quickly swarming around my car like lost bees.

Slamming the door open, I quickly got out as the questions erupted.

"Sir, do you want to say anything about the recent charges that were dropped against you?! Who was the woman that you had saved?!" A reporter yelled as I continued to walk.

"We heard that the mystery girl, Dr. Anika Malhotra, with whom you were spotted with has organized the show!" Another yelled as I continued to ignore the questions and run up the steps of the hotel.

Questions clearly intended to make a mockery of my personal life. The whole media is a circus full of a need to mock others and put them down. They are all entitled beings and indeed Shivaay Singh Oberoi hates entitled beings.

I raised my nose as I looked at them in disgust once more before walking into the hotel lobby. Crowds of guests seen everywhere as they appeared to look at me with a smile or with disgust...those are the two usual reactions I get and somehow I am used it. I faked a smile as I shook hands before walking away.

"Well the fashion show will begin in less than two hours and after that we will move the after party to your home where you have your annual Diwali party. Linda, the head secretary, will continue to run the bidding after the fashion show here," Maxwell reminded as I raised my hand at him.

"I know. Don't repeat Maxwell. Now where is the fashion show being held?" I questioned with a sense of eagerness to see Anika of course.

Maxwell led the way up a long pair of stairs as I hurriedly walked towards the main hallway as Maxwell led me to the back door.

https://youtu.be/Vy9DUy0lwDE

My heart beating fast as I felt excited to see Anika after a couple of days. Without a second thought, I opened the door as a petite figure stumbled back right into my arms. My arms flying up and wrapping around her waist as I stumbled back grabbing on to wall.

A small chuckle escaping from my lips as I realized who it was. My heartbeat immediately settling down as an unusual sense of solace overcame me seeing the beauty in front of my eyes. Tonight is the night that you will be loved Anika...

Anika's Point of View

Butterflies erupting inside of me as his touch ignited the similar passion that happened last night in that dream. His hands laying at the side of my hip as he held me. He had a playful smile as his blue eyes appeared more lively than I had seen them last. In an instant, my swarm of sadness flying away as I appeared to enter a foolish phase once again...a phase of attraction.

I cleared my throat as I lifted myself up with my hands wrapped around him. His sultry breath laying against my ear as I heard him take a deep breath. My hands slowly moving down his shirt as I lifted them away realizing some emplyoees were looking right at us.

"Um...thank Mr.Oberoi...sorry..." My awkwardness clearly breaking out as Shivaay slipped his hands off of my hips fixing his tie as he looked back at everyone else standing backstage.

"I thought we are having a fashion show? So what are you all doing standing here?" Shivaay remarked as I noticed him change his demeanor. The sense of liveliness and playfulness vanishing from his face as he looked at the employees.

The employees quickly resuming to work as I took a deep sigh before bending down and picking up the curtain drapes that still needed to be placed in the front of the stage.

"Hey...don't do that..." I looked up at Shivaay confused as I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Maxwell you do this alright?" Shivaay ordered his assistant as he encircled his hand around my wrist pulling me up from the ground.

I tried to pull my wrist away from him as he grabbed open the backstage door and led me out into the hallway that was now filling up with guests for the fashion show.

My eyes wandering towards them as they looked at the both of us. Their eyes seemingly following us, especially me as I fixed my black capris and the faded white collared shirt I wore. Judgemental looks appearing as women looked at me up and down.

I felt flustered as I looked back at Shivaay. "What are you doing? I have a lot of things to do!" I whispered loudly as Shivaay had a wacky smile on his face...a foolish smile I shall say more appropriately. We turned a corner into an empty hallway as Shivaay took a deep sigh before looking back towards me.

Without any hesistation, Shivaay pushed me back lightly against the wall surprising me. What is going on his mind? Those eyes are clearly showing something is brewing up in his mind...I twirled the end of my shirt around my thumb as I felt coyness approach me. The way he looked at me without any shame surprisingly felt intriguing.

I leaned back against the wooden wall as Shivaay placed his hand besides my head. His aftershave filling up my senses as he leaned closer towards me. My hands instantly running up to his chest as I looked up at him brushing my head against his lips as he let out a small sigh against the locks of my hair falling over my face.

"Stop..." He whispered as I looked up at him confused.

"W-what do you mean?"

"You are getting to me Anika...I cannot express how I feel right now seeing you after so long..." His words placing a small smile across my lips as I felt my cheeks fluttering with redness.

"Not too long...it's been just four days..." I whispered back as I leaned closer towards his ear. Shivaay clicked his tongue in disagreement.

"It felt like an eternity to me..." He whispered back as I looked back into his eyes seeing a sense of honesty in them...wanting to feel that he might just be telling the truth.

I bit my lip as I looked at him. You made a promise Anika...you promised your mom already then what are you doing here right now? You shouldn't be indulging in conversations with Shivaay knowing your marriage has now been fixed with Armaan. I felt sadness overcome me as I came back to reality.

"I-I should get going Shivaay...um..." I felt his eyes on me and clearly the way he looked at me was making me go blank in an instant.

"Mr.Oberoi..." He said as I quickly looked back at him.

"What?"

"That's what you said inside...I actually am starting to like the ring to it...I hated it the way you said it before, but now...I don't know..." His voice lowered as I felt his hand trace against my arm raising goosebumps. His fingertips lightly traced each and every inch of smooth skin lighting it up with his heated touch. He heaved a breath as he looked into my eyes capturing me in an instant.I gulped nervously as clearly he was playing his cards right...knowing what exactly worked on me and would coax me towards him.

"S-stop...I-I...um...have to...um..." Great, I know what I want to say, but the mixture of seduction and an intrigument are not healthy for the tongue as they immediately strangle the voice.

"The way the phrase rolls out of your tongue...I like it..." I felt my legs feeling weak as I held on to the wall behind me as his hand traced from my shoulder and up to my neck pulling me closer towards him as I allowed him to.

I traced my hand to his shirt underneath his suit before pulling him towards me. He smirked as he leaned closer towards me.

"I really have to go...um...can we not do this right now?" I barely broke out a proper phrase as nervousness caught up to me. Shivaay smiled as he looked back towards me.

"So you do like this...the seduction..." My eyes widening as his statement caught me off guard. I felt my stomach flip flop with the nausea slowly creeping up at me. I exhaled a deep breath as I slipped my hand away from his shirt. His question putting me at crossroads as I didn't know what to say.

I don't even know what to think of. I bit my lip somewhere knowing the answer to the question. Is it wrong to admit that I enjoy the idea of seduction? It is wrong Anika...knowing who is doing the seducing...this man who once betrayed you...

I know he betrayed me, but I cannot deny my attraction for him is coming back in full force. It feels awful knowing that he is making me feel this way, but these days I somehow cannot control my emotions...Every single emotion is getting to me. Shivaay is beginning to affect me...I spoke to my inner self that was challenging me.

"Um..."

"That night you liked it...the ultimate seduction. You liked the tender touches...the kisses..." My hand immediately brushing against his lips as I stopped him from speaking further. He looked quite surprised by my initiation as I lightly pressed my palm against his lips.

"I-I...I cannot describe or tell you what I am feeling right now...This is hard Shivaay and you know it too...It's hard for me to feel so conflicted between our reality...and the fantasy we weave together in these moments forgetting everything that has happened..." I stopped as I couldn't speak longer because if I did I was going to break down.

My heart thudding and drumming as I slipped my hand away from his mouth. A sense of understanding somehow seen in him as he leaned a step back.

"I know Anika...I am so sorry for everything...but I...I cannot stop myself from wanting to be with you..."

"What?" His statement clearly shaking my ground and hailing curiosity inside of me. I looked at him expecting an answer as Shivaay appeared to hesitate before he leaned his face forward closing a small gap between us.

"There is so much I want to say and I will say everything tonight..." His words immediately initiating a sense of excitement inside of me. For some reason, his words ignited happiness inside of me...a sense of hope...a hope that I didn't want, but somehow was accepting it right now. The moment itself appearing as a dream like last night.

Why did he say he wants to be with me? Is it because he...? The thought rumbling my mind and dashing down to my heart as I did not even want to complete the line. My heart quickening its pace as I looked at Shivaay as he smiled before he grabbed my hand holding it up in the air. Without a second thought, he laid his tender lips against the palm of my hand. Closing my eyes shut, I heaved a breath as the innocent kiss had tragically hit the soul and ignited a strong yearning to be touched by him. My fingertips lifting up suddenly shaking as a current ran through them.

I felt his lips trace the lines of fate across my hand as my fingertips curled up against the edge of his chin. Lifting my eyes open, I looked at him seemingly admiring his touch of innocence on me...It's a lie if I say there is nothing in my heart for him, but the realization of such may take deeper thought that I do not want in this moment as I only want to enjoy his presence.

"Anika! Anika!" My eyes widening as I suddenly pushed Shivaay away. My breaths heavier in sheer nervousness as I clasped my hands together hearing loud footsteps at the end of the hallways.

"Y-Yes..." My voice barely breaking out of my timidness as I felt Shivaay slip out a small chuckle next to me. I threw him a glare seeing how he didn't appear to be affected by the fact that we were almost going to be caught.

Suddenly, Armaan appeared in front of me as I noticed his demeanor appearing to change as Shivaay fell upon his line of sight. Oh great, what is he doing here? I thought as I pressed my fingertips against my temple aware that something explosive was about to happen.

"What are you doing here?" Armaan's voice icy cold as he appeared to shoot daggers with his eyes as he looked towards Shivaay.

Shivaay cleared his throat as he took a step forward towards him. "If you forgot, I am the CEO of Oberoi hospitals, so I am bound to be here at a charity event that is an essential part of my new project for free clinics." I looked back at Shivaay seeing a smug look apparent across his face realizing he was definitely in the mood to heckle Armaan.

"The charity event in which you abandoned Anika and I had to take your place." Armaan's voice clearly taunting him and appearing to have a deeper meaning. I sighed and shook my head looking at both of them. Shivaay clearly fuming as he detested the taunt.

"We should all get going since the fashion show will start soon...Wouldn't it be better that we work as a team rather than taunt one another and put each other down?"

Shivaay and Armaan looking back at me as I smiled trying to break the ice between the two cousins, but considerable failing as they didn't appear to like ym statement.

"Well tell Shivaay to not taunt alright?" Armaan said throwing Shivaay a side eye as Shivaay clenched his fists tightly clearly attempting to control his anger.

"Oh really says the man who himself is full of so much crap and jealousy. The man who doesn't give a damn about anyone else in the family! The man who is hell bound to get everything I own!" Shivaay yelled

"Oh really? Look at yourself first before taunting others! Look at you! Who do you think you are?! You are nothing! You are not even worth a penny!" Armaan clearly igniting Shivaay's anger as his face reddened. His eyes darkening just like that night in the club. Before I knew it he lunged towards Armaan.

My feet jumping into action as without another thought I jumped in front of him grabbing his waist and pushing him away.

"Shivaay no!" I screamed as Armaan appeared to jump behind us clearly towards Shivaay.

"Stop it Armaan!" I yelled back as I pushed him a little too harshly as he stumbled back.

Shivaay taking a side step as he dashed towards him. My eyes widening realizing Shivaay was about to indulge into another brawl. I grabbed Shivaay's arm pulling him back as Armaan ran forward towards him.

"Do you even know who I am?! Do you?!" Shivaay grabbed Armaan's shirt collar pulling him quite close to him utilizing his famous tactic of inciting fear.

My heart beating fast in fear as I looked at Shivaay realizing he might worsen another situation in public and this time likely he couldn't be saved. Grabbing Shivaay's shoulder, I used all my power pulling him back as I turned him towards me.

Placing my hands on his chest, I pushed him back with all my force leveling his distance from Armaan.

"Stop it! For the sake of me just stop it! Shivaay don't you dare ruin this for me!" I screamed at him a little louder than intended to be.

Shivaay appearing stunned as he didn't expect this reaction from me. "What are you saying? Are you supporting this piece of crap instead of me?!" His voice echoing through the empty hallway as I bit my lip nervously feeling a little scared as I saw his anger.

"Hey don't you dare say that!" Armaan yelled back going towards him as I grabbed Armaan's arm pulling him back. Shivaay's eyes falling down at my hand grabbing on to his arm. He looked up at me and appeared shocked.

"Wow. I didn't expect this. Anika..." He stopped as I realized what he must be thinking. I closed my eyes shut as I took a deep breath.

Well it is the reality Anika. How ca you just ignore reality and weave a fantasy with Shivaay? Your reality is this. Your reality is to be with Armaan and no one else...that is the reality your parents have decided. How stupid can I be? How can I just find admiration for Shivaay and hope for something better knowing I should hope. That having hope is not something I have a right to.

"Shivaay..." I whispered his name as Shivaay held his hand up stopping me from saying another word.

His eyes reflecting an unusual sense of pain as he appeared appalled at my actions. My heart aching as I felt a sense of discomfort seeing him like this. I don't know why, but I felt hurt. Hurt to see him in a sense of despair that he was projecting bluntly in how his anger appeared to vanish in thin air leaving only sadness behind.

He smiled as he looked at me. "Good luck with the show..." And without saying another word, he walked away.

"You ok Anika?" Armaan placed his hand over mine grabbing my attention. I nodded not indulging in further conversation. We hadn't strangely yet talked about the supposed marriage proposal that our parents had fixed, but I knew in that moment what reality I was about to soon enter seen in the beloved look Armaan gave me which I didn't want to respond to.

My eyes followed back to Shivaay as he walked ahead of us. My footsteps following his with hope he would look back towards me, but not once he did so.

Don't walk away Shivaay. Don't walk away from me like this...my heart calling out as my mind pushed it back telling it to not plead for a man who had betrayed it. I know I should be listening to my parents...standing up to the promise I made, but then my heart is not listening again. My heart doesn't want to listen. My heart wants the fantasy again that once existed between Shivaay and I...that life that was a fantasy, an illusion, delicate like glass, but provided fulfillment that reality hasn't given ever since.

Shivaay's Point of View

Dragging my feet, I walked in silence. The heart is delicate just like glass and it can be shattered by the smallest gestures intended to hurt it, weaken it, and eventually break it...gestures that ones' own lover makes.

How could you Anika? Never would I have thought you would do this to me. How can you play with my heart and be with that Armaan knowing what we both have is nothing compared to what you and Armaan have? Your relationship with him has no foundation and it is weak that can be shattered by a snap of the finger. While we...we both know what we had and what we shared. We both know how our relationship was like...how we even started a family...How you loved me selflessly...How can you forget all of this Anika? How can you just let go of me?

I placed my hands on my cheeks as I felt tears coming down my eyes. My eyes widening as I realized I had cried a puddle. My eyes following the tears on my hands as they appeared foreign to me...appalling that I had cried...What are you doing to me Anika? Why is it that when I finally want you...you have chosen to be with Armaan...support him...were you misleading me? Were you misleading me that night in the club? Were you misleading me just a few moments ago? I took a deep breath placing my hands against my mouth shocked how Anika might have just played me.

Anika cannot do this to me. She cannot take vengeance. She is not like this...there is something more that I don't know. I have to find the truth of the matter...I cannot let my love fall weak and just shatter...I will not give up and allow her to run towards Armaan. I will fight for her. I will not distance myself from her, but instead do everything to close our distance. I will question her and ask her what the truth is tonight...I will confess my love to her, perhaps, bringing her back to me where she belongs. Perhaps, if she finds out my true feelings then she will come back. She has to come back.

Part 2 is is quite short and is posted next :)

P.S. A lot of Shivika scenes will be seen in the next parts as well :)

If you wish to encourage me to continue writing, then if you liked this chapter, if you wish you can upvote on this chapter.

Edit: I posted a preview of the upcoming chapters for "Learning to Love Him Again" as the next update will be back on December 19, 2019.

https://www.wattpad.com/811301711-learning-to-love-him-again-long-mid-winter-season