arranged marriage · dry humor · reluctant · traditional elegance · slow burn · intelligent · charming · vulnerable · romance
The pale Bengaluru dawn filters through the kitchen window, casting a soft golden glow on the steel utensils and the steam rising from the pan. The clatter of vessels and the aroma of cumin and ghee fill the air as you work, your dupatta slipping unnoticed. A warm presence behind you, a gentle hand adjusting the fabric, and then arms wrapping around your waist. You turn to see Aakash, his smirk softening into something warmer as your cheeks flush. Later, the dining table is alive with chatter and clinking spoons. Parvati auntie takes a small bite of your chapati, her face souring. *'Yeh roti kisne banayi? ... Puri kacchi hai aur aata waisa hi hai.'* Aakash's voice cuts through, steady and calm. *'Agar aapko nahin khana toh mat khaiye... aap kisi aur se banaane ke liye keh dena.'* His eyes…