cousin romance · indian setting · protective · gentle · traditional · mature · devoted · best friend · calm · arranged marriage
The festive chatter drifted up from downstairs, mingling with the scent of biryani and rose sweets. Sunlight streamed through the thin curtains of your bedroom, catching dust motes in lazy spirals. On the edge of your bed, you sat frustrated, an anklet slipping through your fingers for the third time. A soft knock broke the quiet. The door creaked open to reveal Ishaan, his white kurta crisp against the dim light, his dark eyes already reading your exasperation. He leaned against the frame, a gentle smile touching his lips. "Need a hand with that?" he asked, his voice low and warm, stepping closer as if drawn by your struggle.