《The Day I Hated You》


 Chapter 1 - Life of Rehaan

    Awakened abruptly by the jarring sound of a Mixi, Rehaan found himself in a daze as he stumbled towards the kitchen. There, amidst the morning hustle and bustle, his mother and younger sister were diligently preparing breakfast.


    "Ah, Rehaan, you''ve finally graced us with your presence," his mother greeted him with a warm smile.


    "Mmm, yes, mother," he mumbled, still half-immersed in the realm of dreams.


    "Excellent, my dear. Come, lend me a helping hand," she requested, her voice filled with a hint of anticipation.


    "Of course, mother," Rehaan agreed, his grogginess slowly dissipating as he joined them in the kitchen.


    His sister, Maahi, added her own touch to the conversation, "Brother, why don''t you take charge of the fish while I attend to the curry?"


    "Sounds like a plan," Rehaan nodded, ready to contribute his culinary skills to the morning feast.


    After finishing breakfast, Rehaan''s daily routine began. His schedule was always hectic and full of surprises. Upon completing his post-graduation, he focused all his energy on preparing for his state exams. Despite initially dreaming of becoming a teacher in college, he soon discovered his true passion lay in serving as a police officer. His goal was to safeguard others from danger.


    Each day, Rehaan would kick off his morning with a run, followed by attending his UPSC class. He would then spend hours at the library, immersed in books, and in his spare time, he would lose himself in novels. This pattern never wavered, as Rehaan was resolute in sticking to it.


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    Rehaan was given the name by his parents, meaning "God''s blessing." Yet, he later found out it also meant "Destroyer of Enemies." Despite this dual significance, both meanings resonated with him deeply. His father instilled in him a crucial lesson - right and wrong are universal, whether at home or beyond. Rehaan internalized these teachings and remained steadfast in his father''s wisdom.


    In the evening, Rehaan returned home. Maahi was deeply engaged in her phone conversation. Mother was watching TV, and father had left for a meeting. Feeling weary, Rehaan chose to sit beside his sister.


    She beamed a smile that illuminated the room. Rehaan couldn''t help but be curious about what was so amusing in her chat.


    "Oh, look at this handsome guy," she exclaimed, staring at her phone screen.


    "Tevin?" he muttered.


    "Yes, baby Tevin. Isn''t he dreamy?"


    "Maahi, I''ve told you before. Don''t idolize him, he''s just annoying."


    "He''s cute, bro. Check out his photo," she insisted, showing him her phone. Rehaan glanced at the screen.


    "Hot boys?" Rehaan inquired. With a hint of intrigue, he swiftly snatched the phone from Maahi''s grasp upon catching sight of the group''s name.


    "Yes, it''s a group dedicated to our favorite good-looking men. Right now, we''re all about Tevin."


    Rehaan was annoyed to find out about such a group. He skimmed through the messages.


    "He''s so full of himself. Why do you adore him so much?"


    Maahi, who was four years younger, felt upset when her own brother criticized her idol. She snatched the phone away.


    "Oh Maahi, can''t you ask nicely? You almost hurt my hand," Rehaan scolded, shaking his hand.


    "Seriously, bro, you''re dissing my idol now. And remember, this is my phone. I can take it back whenever I want," she retorted. Rehaan stayed silent and looked away. Maahi approached him and asked, "Brother, why do you despise Tevin so much?"


    "He''s your Tevin, it''s just strange. You don''t really know him," Rehaan replied.


    "And what about you, brother? Why do you hate him? Is there something I''m missing?".


    To be continued...

 Chapter 2 - The Never Fading Memories

    "And what about your brother?" Maahi inquired, drawing closer to Rehaan. "Do you possess complete knowledge about him? Why do you harbor such immense hatred towards him?"


    "It is indeed true that I am unfamiliar with him. However, one thing I am certain of is that he is merely putting on a facade," Rehaan responded, rising from his seat.


    "Provide me with a reason as to why you despise him. There must be one," Maahi insisted.


    "You tell me first, why do you love him?" Rehaan countered.


    "He is handsome, possesses a melodious voice, dances gracefully, and overall, he is extraordinary, like a Korean oppa," Maahi expressed, grasping Rehaan''s hands. "Can''t you simply appreciate him? It pains me whenever you express your hatred towards him. You don''t even have a valid reason," she pleaded.


    "Maahi, to hate someone, one does not require a reason. It is my intuition that informs me he is an individual who lacks the ability to trust others," Rehaan gently removed Maahi''s hands and tapped them lightly. "Enough with this conversation. I shall now proceed to study, and you must not engage in frivolous activities. Attend to your responsibilities, comprehend?"


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    "Of course, my dear brother, there is no need to fret." She gives a thumbs up and grins.


    Rehaan gently pats her head and proceeds to his quarters. Having just completed his postgraduate studies, Rehaan aspires to become a police officer. He diligently works towards achieving this goal.


    He opens the door and steps into his room. The walls are adorned with photographs of police officers from movies and dramas, while on the other side, there are concise notes that he studies. He is fully dedicated to preparing for the civil service examination.


    Rehaan settles into the chair, letting out a sigh as he gazes out the window. His mind is consumed by deep thoughts. His fingers tremble as he closes his eyes.


    "You have no idea, Maahi, what he did to me. I despise him with every fiber of my being. I can''t stand the sight of that scoundrel''s face. I wish I had never met him." Tears well up in his eyes. Rehaan opens his cupboard and retrieves a photograph. It is a group picture from his college days. He looks at it with a smile. The man standing beside him, with a hand on Rehaan''s shoulder, is Tevin.


    "Two years have passed, Tevin. I tried my best to hate you, but how can I when I know what you''ve been through?" He smiles and touches Tevin''s image in the photo, taking a deep breath. Returning to reality, memories of Tevin always weaken Rehaan.


    "I shouldn''t have seen you. I want to forget you, you wretched Tevin. Why did you do that to me?" Rehaan''s words are filled with emotion. Memories from his college days flood his mind once again...


    To be continued...

 Chapter 3 - College Days

    I studied biology in high school, so I opted for BSc Chemistry. SNDP college was a great academic institution. On my first day, I was welcomed by many seniors outside the campus. I greeted them and made my way inside. The college had a big hall and I observed the structure. I had three years ahead of me here. I asked a senior about the first-year chemistry class and he guided me to the first floor. I thanked him and climbed the stairs. Suddenly, a boy bumped into me and then disappeared without an apology. It was Tevin. My first impression of him was arrogant. I hurried to my class and noticed that most students were already seated. The majority were girls, chatting in groups. I couldn''t befriend someone so quickly. I chose to sit at the back. A boy from the second last bench grabbed my hand. I turned around and it was the same boy who had bumped into me on the stairs. I never expected us to be in the same class.


    Sit next to me, please. This seat is free," he mentioned.


    "No, I prefer sitting in the back, thanks," I replied.


    He pulled me towards him and made me sit beside him. I didn''t have much of a choice, and even if I did, I didn''t want to create a scene on the first day. He kept staring at me. I checked my face to see if there was something on it. His gaze was starting to irritate me.


    "Why are you staring at me?" I questioned.


    "Nothing, I was just checking if you were okay," he responded.


    "What do you mean?" I inquired.


    "Hey, don''t you remember me? I was the one who accidentally bumped into you on the stairs earlier. You forgot about it," he explained.


    "Of course, how could I forget your face, the one who hurried away without even apologizing," I said angrily.


    "Hey, I''m sorry about that," he apologized.


    "Really? Apologies accepted. Thanks for letting me know." I was so furious with his words and sitting next to him was only fueling my anger.


    "Hey, I''m really sorry. I was actually scared. I thought you were a senior. And I''ve heard that seniors here can be a bit tough. So, I was afraid that you might harm me. That''s why I ran away. Please understand."


    "So what? You''re such a pain." I glare at him and say, "You know, it''s basic manners to apologize. If you had been a senior, they would have given you a hard time because of your attitude."


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.He doesn''t say anything and looks down. I realize that I was being harsh when he was trying to be nice. "Well, let''s forget about it." I speak up. He looks at me and I continue, "I didn''t realize we were in the same class. So, I was just a little shocked. I didn''t mean to shout at you. I''m sorry if my words ever offended you."


    "Hey, it''s okay. You have every right to scold me. I was the one who messed up here. I apologize."


    "You''ve already said it. It''s fine, let''s just move on." I smile and say.


    "Alright." He grins in return. His smile is absolutely adorable, like that of a heavenly being. He turns towards me completely and introduces himself, saying, "Well, my name is Tevin."


    "Kevin?"


    "Not Kevin. It''s Tevin. T instead of K," he clarifies.


    "Hey Tevin, that''s a nice name."


    "And what about you?"


    "I''m Rehaan. Nice to meet you," I reply.


    We both lock eyes and shake hands on our first day. I didn''t really want to be friends with him, I just wanted someone to talk to so I wouldn''t be alone on my first day. But little did I know that he would become my closest friend for the next three years. I can''t deny that he has a certain charm that no one can resist. Honestly, I''ve never had such an amazing friend in my entire life like him.


    That day was pretty uneventful. The seniors came to our class and caused a little commotion, but they were nice. The teachers showed up and emphasized the importance of our subjects, raising our awareness. They went on about how fortunate we are to be here and shared many inspiring words about the different departments and the college. I didn''t understand why the teachers felt the need to boast before starting the lesson. I couldn''t tell if they were being genuine or not. It was entertaining to listen to, though. Sometimes I had to pretend to be impressed. But when I glanced at Tevin, he was the complete opposite of me. Whenever he felt like laughing, he just went for it. He wasn''t a fan of the teachers gossiping, so he simply laid his head on the desk. I found myself intrigued by Tevin. It was refreshing to see someone who did whatever he pleased. I was convinced his parents must have spoiled him rotten.


    To be continued....

 Chapter 4 - The Beautiful Days

    The following day, I was heading to college on foot. As I walked, a bike approached from behind and stopped in front of me. Startled, I glanced over and recognized Tevin, even though he was wearing a helmet. He took off the helmet and said, "Hop on. I''ll give you a ride."


    "Um, okay," I replied and got on. I wanted to refuse, but I was afraid he wouldn''t take it well.


    "I''m a speedy rider, Rehaan. Hold on tight," he warned as he put the helmet back on.


    I gripped Tevin''s shoulder. The college wasn''t too far, and we were on a bike, so I assumed he wouldn''t go too fast. However, the moment he revved up the engine, he zoomed off so quickly that I couldn''t even catch my breath properly. We arrived at the parking area within seconds. I hopped off the bike when he came to a stop.


    "Tevin, are you crazy? Why did you have to speed like that? I thought I was going to die," I panted, clearly out of breath.


    "Sorry about that," he apologized with a grin. "I love riding fast. But I promise to take it slow next time."


    "There won''t be a next time, you goof," I retorted and started walking away. I could hear him chuckling.


    "Don''t be so sure. Just wait and see. There will come a day when you can''t live without me," he called out loudly.


    "Sure, in your dreams," I shot back without looking back. I quickened my pace, but he caught up and wrapped his arm around my shoulder. I tried to push him away, but he held on. I had no choice but to let him be close.


    I didn''t really like everything about Tevin, but he was undeniably popular. Whenever he walked into the college, all the girls would stare at him. And he knew it too; he loved the attention. Some girls from another department even approached us to be friends, all because of Tevin. I wasn''t interested in that kind of friendship though. Tevin always acted like a spoiled rich kid, which is why I called him a spoiled rich brat. So, I was relieved when he went and sat with the girls, as it meant he wouldn''t bother me anymore. Even though he would occasionally glance at me, I didn''t pay it much mind and focused on my own business. I started talking to other students. But as soon as I started being friendly with them, he came and sat next to me. He grabbed my shoulder and pulled me towards him. I was confused for a moment and looked at him, but he didn''t say anything and just smiled. At that moment, I thought his smile was cute, but when the bell rang, I put his hands down and sat up straight.


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    As the days went by, he became even more clingy towards me. I started to find his childish behavior endearing and would often smile at it. Despite having other friends, he would always choose to be with me. We had classes together with the English and Physics departments, so I made friends there too. But I always preferred sitting with Tevin, not because he forced me to, but because I felt comfortable around him. Eventually, he became my go-to person. Whenever I got off the bus, he would be waiting to give me a ride. I always wondered how he knew I wasn''t in class. Oh well, I was probably overthinking it. He could have just asked someone in our class. After two weeks in college, Tevin had become my comfort zone. I would approach him when he walked alone, allowing him to grab my shoulder and be even more friendly. I could feel that the annoying spoiled kid I once thought he was, was actually a really good person.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 5 - The Strong Friendship

    We were suddenly moved to a small classroom. It used to be a storage room, but they cleaned it up for us. We were the only ones in that section and we were all pretty upset about the change. It felt like the department didn''t care about us. We had no choice but to adapt, even though it was really unfair how our class was treated differently.


    Even though the class atmosphere was tense, Tevin and I remained the same. We shared a lot about ourselves, but he never talked much about his parents. All I knew was that they were teachers and he was a top student in his previous school. It was quite surprising to me. I was curious to learn more about his parents since I wanted to become a teacher myself. I asked him several times, but he always changed the subject and suggested we grab something to eat because he was hungry. The more he avoided the topic, the more I started to think he might be an orphan. It wasn''t until I overheard our teacher saying something to Tevin that I realized the truth. I can still picture the uncomfortable look on Tevin''s face that day, a few days after I had asked him about his parents.


    The incident occurred while Tevin and I were chatting. The teacher called him over. He approached her, and I could easily hear their conversation.


    "Tevin, did you ride your bike to college?" she inquired with a serious tone.


    "Yes, ma''am," he replied. He was standing facing me, so I could observe his change in expression.


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    "Your father contacted me. He mentioned that you''ve been taking the bike without their permission. Do you think that''s acceptable?"


    "Oh, don''t worry, miss, I won''t do it again. I promise," he said in a light-hearted manner. However, I could tell he was uncomfortable near her.


    After gently warning him, the teacher left. Tevin came back to me and resumed our conversation as if nothing had happened. But I could see in his eyes that he wasn''t okay. I was really concerned about him.


    "Tevin, are you okay?" I inquired.


    "Yep, I''m perfectly fine," he responded.


    "Are you sure?" I asked once more.


    "Of course, why do you ask?" he smiled and replied. That smile irritated me. The more he pretended to be fine, the angrier I became. "Because you''re not being honest," I told him angrily.


    "I... wait," he avoided making eye contact.


    "Tevin, I know you''re not okay," I said. "I overheard everything the teacher said to you. I was just worried about you. You''re my friend. If you don''t want to talk about it now, that''s okay, but don''t lie and say you''re fine." I placed my hand on his shoulder. "But Tevin, if you need someone to listen, I''m always here for you... I just want you to know that."


    Tevin smiled and looked at me. I patted his shoulder. "The bell is about to ring, let''s go to class," I said, placing my hand on his shoulder and walking into the classroom with him. Suddenly, he stopped walking, and I looked at him.


    "What''s wrong, Tevin?" I asked.


    He looked down and said, "If I tell you, let''s skip this class because I need to talk to you about something. Will you come with me, Rehaan?" When he finished speaking, he looked at me. His face showed fear of hearing a ''No'' in response to his request.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 6 - Sharing The Pain

    I didn''t want to skip class, but his innocent face was too hard to resist. I nodded and walked outside with him. We found a spot on the ground and sat on a plain rock. He gazed up at the clear sky and let out a sigh. He remained silent for a while, and I didn''t want to disturb him because he seemed so at peace. This was the side of him I wanted to see. All I knew was that I didn''t want to see him in pain. I realized I had been staring at him for a while without even blinking. I looked up at the sky and wondered to myself - ''Is it wrong to gaze at your friend like this? He''s my best friend, so it shouldn''t be strange if I want to see him relaxed and happy. But why do I feel different?''


    "Rehaan," Tevin called out softly.


    I turned to look at him. His eyes were shining brightly in the sun.


    I nodded. "Hmm..." I didn''t want to say much.


    "You have something to ask me. Go ahead and ask whatever you want," he said, pausing for a moment before exhaling. "I''ll answer all your questions."


    "Are you sure you''re ready?" I inquired.


    He nodded. "I''m ready for you. I can tell you anything," he assured me.


    I moved closer to him. "About what the teacher mentioned earlier..." I trailed off, rubbing my nose.


    "That," he said with a forced smile, then continued, "It''s just that, you know I always come here on my bike. The truth is, my parents didn''t allow me to ride it. They were afraid I might get into an accident. But I didn''t listen to them and wanted to ride, so they asked our teacher to keep an eye on me. That''s all," he explained.


    "And are you feeling okay?"


    "Yeah, I''m fine."


    "Are you sure?"


    "Sure, I''ve been dealing with that since I was a kid. I''m used to it," he mentioned.


    "What do you mean?"


    "I mean exactly what I just said," he replied, looking at me to see my confusion. "Rehaan, I grew up in a household with two teachers. Just think, if I misbehaved or got bad grades, who would it reflect poorly on? My parents. If a teacher''s child misbehaves, people will say that if a teacher can''t even discipline their own child, how can they teach others? It would be a huge disappointment for them."


    Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.I began to grasp his point. Tears welled up in his eyes.


    "My parents instilled this in me from a young age. They emphasized the importance of education but never taught me about the value of life. They loved and cared for me, but I always felt like it was because they wanted to maintain a certain image. I always felt this pressure inside me. Haven''t we all heard that we''re like pressure cookers, filled with the expectations of others? I''ve experienced more than that. All I can say is that they don''t want a son who fails. I''ve always followed their rules until now. But Rehaan, I envy other kids who can do as they please."


    I reached out and held Tevin''s hands. He gripped mine tightly and lowered his head.


    "Rehaan, I''m tired of that life. I want to live happily. I want to be a rebellious kid. I''m done with being the good kid. I want to drink, smoke, and do all the things boys do. I want to decide for myself what''s right and wrong." Tears streamed down his face.


    "Tevin, please... don''t say anymore," I interrupted, patting his shoulder. He looked up and hugged me, and I held him close as he cried.


    "Rehaan, I don''t want to be the good boy anymore. I don''t want to please everyone," he confessed.


    "Tevin, you can live life on your terms. I''ll always have your back. I promise," I assured him, shedding tears alongside him. It was the first time I cried for someone other than my parents. It was the first time I felt strange hugging another man. I couldn''t quite place the feeling at that moment. And when I finally understood it, I had lost him completely.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 7 - Something Is Changing

    After that day, Tevin seemed so relaxed and I was genuinely happy for him until he dropped the bombshell that he was seeing someone from the English department. My initial reaction wasn''t great. I wanted to be happy for him, but at the same time, I felt a tinge of sadness for some unknown reason. I didn''t want to dwell on those negative emotions, so I put on a smile and offered my support. It turned out that he had fallen head over heels for this girl, but he wasn''t sure if she felt the same way. I assured him that I would do whatever I could to help him out. Our other friends also rallied behind him, giving their support. We all put in our best efforts, but unfortunately, when Tevin finally mustered up the courage to propose, she revealed that she was already dating someone. I listened to this news with a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was relieved that she didn''t reciprocate his feelings, but on the other hand, I felt a pang of sadness for Tevin, who had been rejected. It was at that moment that Tevin decided to drown him sorrows in alcohol. I was the only one he confided in. I agreed, We grabbed two bottles of beer, cracked one open, clinked our glasses together, and took a sip. The taste was strange to me, and I immediately wanted to stop drinking. However, Tevin didn''t seem to share my sentiment. He downed two glasses, and I couldn''t help but feel concerned for him. I wanted him to stop, knowing that it wouldn''t solve anything.


    Tevin, cut it out. This is our first time, so don''t drink too much," I told him, grabbing his hands along with the glass.


    Tevin looked at me with a sad expression and said, "Rehaan, I know that, but I just want to get drunk and forget about her."


    I could tell he was hurting and just wanted some company. "Do you love her that much?" I asked him.


    "Yes, she was cute and pretty. Of course, I liked her," he replied.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator."But what about her personality?" I questioned.


    "Why does that matter when she''s pretty and a girl? I just really want a girlfriend," he said.


    "It seems like nothing matters to you more than loving a woman," I sighed.


    "Yes, I just want a girlfriend, nothing more. It doesn''t matter what her personality is like," he insisted.


    Hearing those words made me feel sad. Does he truly love anyone in his life, or does he just want a girlfriend?


    "Then stop drinking and let''s go home," I said firmly.


    "No, we have to finish these two bottles. If you love me, drink with me. Please, I want to be with you, Rehaan," he pleaded.


    "Fine, I won''t get drunk, but I''ll take you home. Got it?" I agreed, unable to say no whenever he called my name. It was my weakness.


    "Yes, loud and clear," he replied.


    Tevin passed out from drinking too much. I attempted to wake him up, but he wouldn''t budge. I was at a loss for what to do next. Suddenly, Tevin''s lips caught my eye. I couldn''t tell if it was the alcohol causing me to feel this way or something else. I found myself curious about the taste of beer on his lips. Before I knew it, my hands were already touching his lips without my consent. His lower lip felt incredibly soft, like touching a delicate flower. My mind went blank. He was too drunk to wake up, so maybe I could steal a kiss. But was that fair? I wasn''t sure. I started moving closer to him, but then I remembered something he had said earlier. I stopped, turned around, and sat back down. I felt a wave of sadness when he mentioned wanting a girlfriend.


    ''If I had known that loving Tevin would be this painful, I wouldn''t have fallen for him. Wait, did I just admit to loving him? That couldn''t be possible. Then why did I feel so heartbroken when he mentioned wanting a girlfriend? And why did I almost kiss him?''


    Tears welled up in my eyes. I could sense that I was about to make a mistake. I slapped myself in the face to snap out of it and regain control of my thoughts.


    To be continued

 Chapter 8 - Finding The Answer

    I didn''t want to spend any more time with him that day before losing control. I lightly tapped his face until he woke up.


    "Hey Tevin, it''s getting late. Let''s head home," I said as he opened his eyes. Tevin nodded and got up, so I held onto him tightly to make sure he wouldn''t fall.


    I dropped him off at his house. He got off the bike and looked at me seriously. "Rehaan, take my bike with you. It''s late."


    "It''s okay, I can take the bus," I replied.


    "No, Rehaan, listen to me. You got delayed because of me. Please... and come pick me up here tomorrow morning. Got it?" he insisted.


    "Alright then, I''ll leave now," I said, taking his bike and riding back home.


    I couldn''t sleep all night. I had doubts about myself and was deeply contemplating my sexuality. I grabbed my phone, swiped to unlock, and opened a search engine.


    ''Am I gay?'' I typed. Numerous options appeared on my phone. For some reason, I felt worried, but I continued searching and found a quiz to help identify one''s sexuality. So, I clicked on the website. My hands were trembling as the page loaded. There were several questions to answer. One question at a time, I prayed and began.


    I read the first question: "Have you ever had feelings for a close friend of the same gender?" I paused for a moment; it was exactly my situation. I clicked on the option for yes.


    The second question appeared, asking about the desire to kiss someone of the same gender. I wasn''t sure, but this question also resonated with my situation. Once again, I clicked on yes.


    The more questions that came, the more scared I became, but I still clicked on the answers. When I finished the quiz, the question was really straightforward: "What inspired you to take the quiz?" I clicked on the option "I want to know if I am gay?" The phone showed the results, so I placed it on the bed and waited eagerly. The internet was slow, so I had to be patient. Just then, my mother entered the room. I quickly turned off the screen and looked at her.


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    "Rehaan, did you take a bath?"


    "I was about to, mom," I replied, tapping my hands on the bed nervously.


    She came closer to me. "You smell bad," she said, studying me. "Did you drink alcohol?"


    I stood up, feeling ashamed. "I... I didn''t want to... I''m sorry, mom," I said, bowing down.


    She sat next to me and patted my head. "It''s fine, son. During your teenage years, you might feel like trying different things, but don''t go overboard. Think before you do anything in life. Everything has its limits. Got it?"


    I smiled at my mother. "I won''t repeat that again."


    "It''s okay. But if you want to drink, you can, just not at college. It''s not good. Do you understand, my dear?"


    "Hmm, I know, mother. I promise I won''t repeat it."


    "I trust you, my dear. Now go freshen up and come eat. Aren''t you hungry?"


    "Okay, mother. I''ll be right there," I said, wiping my face and getting ready.


    My parents, even though they are busy, always take care of me. They know me too well. After my bath, I changed my clothes and went straight to have dinner. I couldn''t eat as much as I usually do. Afterward, I returned to my room and realized that I was searching for something. I sat on the bed and unlocked the screen.


    The screen of my phone displayed the outcome -  89% certainty that I am gay. My eye practically popped out of its socket in sheer astonishment. I was taken aback to the point where I swiftly closed the app and turned off the screen. Concern for my parents flooded my mind.


    "It had only been a month since college started, so how could I have fallen in love so quickly? " Tears welled up in my eyes.


    "I found myself infatuated with a man who would never reciprocate my feelings". I lay on the bed, contemplating the numerous challenges.


    "Tevin had already faced, not wanting to become the source of yet another problem".


    To be continued...

 Chapter 9 - The Insecurities

    The next day, I found myself sitting in class while Tevin went outside with some friends. After a while, Tevin suddenly appeared out of nowhere, grabbed my hand, and led me outside.


    "Where are you taking me?" I asked, curious.


    "Just come with me, you''ll see," he replied with a mischievous smile.


    Intrigued, I followed him to the entrance where he pointed out a girl to me.


    "What do you think of her? Isn''t she pretty?" he asked eagerly.


    I looked at him skeptically. "What game are you playing, Tevin?"


    "No game, I promise. She''s the girl I like. What do you think of her?"


    "What do you mean ''like''? What about the girl from English class?"


    "She''s no longer in the picture. Now, it''s all about this girl."


    "Wait a minute, Tevin. Yesterday you were heartbroken and now you''re falling for someone else?"


    "That was just a passing infatuation. This is the real deal. Please support me. Should I go and talk to her?"


    I was starting to understand Tevin''s fickle nature when it came to love. I nodded and smiled at him. "Yes, go ahead and talk to her. Good luck." That was all I could say at that moment.


    "Thank you, my dear friend. You''re the best," he said, expressing his gratitude before walking towards the girl.


    I really hope Tevin finds someone who truly cares for him and shows him what love is. I remember saying that to myself before heading back to class. Time flew by, and before we knew it, we were seniors. I started getting closer to my professors, who always seemed to help me out more than anyone else in the class. They treated me like their own child. As for Tevin, his attitude changed after facing rejection. It was hard for me to deal with. In terms of academics, I was just average in chemistry, but Tevin always surprised me with his good grades in exams. However, I could tell that the teachers didn''t really like him, probably because of his parents and his behavior. Despite numerous warnings, he still rode his bike to college.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.One day, Tevin''s father showed up at the college looking for him. He was called in by the teachers and scolded in front of everyone. I felt so anxious and wanted to comfort him, but I couldn''t bring myself to do it. When Tevin walked back to class, he glanced at me before leaving again. I hesitated for a moment before grabbing our bags and following him. All eyes were on him as he made his way to our usual spot and sat down.


    "Rehaan is all the parents like this".


    "Like what?"


    "Like mine. They don''t let me do what I like and they hate me".


    I sat near him Tevin "Rehaan, I understand that you''re feeling frustrated with your parents right now. It can be tough when they don''t seem to understand or support your interests. However, it''s important to remember that they love you and want what''s best for you. Maybe they just have a different perspective or are worried about your well-being".


    Tevin scoffed, "Best for me? Yeah right. I''m miserable. They don''t even understand me."


    Rehaan looked at Tevin and replied, "You know, when I first met you, I found you annoying. But as we talked, I realized you''re actually quite interesting. And when you opened up about your struggles, it made me see that you have a pure soul"- Rehaan paused and continued, "Have you ever told your parents what you like and what you want? I bet you haven''t, because you''re scared. You need to be open with them."


    Tevin shook his head, "No, Rehaan. They won''t understand."


    Rehaan challenged him, "Are they really not understanding, or do you just not want them to understand? If you don''t tell them, how can they possibly understand, you idiot?"


    Tevin looked confused, "What you''re saying doesn''t make any sense."


    Rehaan sighed, "Tevin, you''re smart in many ways, but when it comes to your own life, you''re clueless. You''ve never told your parents how much you hate the things they''ve done to you. I always tell my parents the truth, no matter what. Start being honest. Open up your mind. I promise things will change."


    He gazed at me with the same longing he always reserves for something he desires deeply.


    "Rehaan, do you ever wonder why I find solace in gazing at the sky?


    "I''m not sure, why is that?"


    "Because it brings me a sense of peace and happiness. The sky is always above me, so whenever I feel down, I can simply look up and find comfort."


    "Oh, really? That''s quite interesting. I''m glad that something brings you joy," I replied, turning my gaze towards the sky and smiling.


    "Rehaan..."


    "Yes?"


    "Besides the sky, you''re the one who truly makes me feel better."


    I was taken aback and locked eyes with Tevin. He had a smile on his face.


    "I''ve always dreamt of marrying someone who resembles the sky. Should I marry you, so I can experience a lifetime of tranquility?" he asked, his gaze fixed on me.


    I was stunned and stared back at him, unable to look away. He didn''t break eye contact for even a second.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 10 - The Misunderstanding

    I inquired after a long pause, "What on earth are you saying?"


    He responded with a smirk, "Oh, just joking. Isn''t it strange to love a man?"


    I was exasperated, "Strange? How so?"


    He retorted, "I was just sharing my opinion. Is that not allowed?"


    "Loving someone genuinely is what truly matters. But you wouldn''t comprehend, Tevin. Have you ever loved someone sincerely in your life? Then who are you to pass judgment?"


    "Why are you getting so emotional, Rehaan? Why argue about such a distasteful topic?"


    "Distasteful? Seriously? You know what, Tevin, I''m tired of your narrow-mindedness. If you''re unaware that a man can love another man, that''s fine. Educate yourself. Don''t label it as disgusting when you can''t grasp the concept of love."


    I was filled with anger as I grabbed my bag and walked away. I could feel his confused gaze upon me, but I couldn''t care less about what he was thinking. What truly worried me was the possibility of him discovering my love for him one day. The mere thought of it made me cry, and I couldn''t stop the tears from flowing. I had reached my breaking point. Unrequited love seemed to be a common theme in this world, and I found myself longing to be a part of that list.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    The following day, I decided to sit in a different seat. He appeared indifferent and unaffected by my choice of location. However, the pain inside me was still very real. In the afternoon, I found myself sitting at a marble table outside the college. Suddenly, I heard commotion coming from the canteen. Without hesitation, I rushed over to see what was happening. It turned out to be a small fight between our college students and those from a nearby college. I positioned myself in the middle and tried to mediate.


    "Here comes a hero. What do you have to say now?" One of the scumbags taunted.


    "I don''t want a fight. I don''t like it either. Just give the money and leave," I replied.


    "Money for this terrible food? No way," the scumbag retorted.


    "You already ate the terrible food. Now shut up and hand over the money," I demanded.


    "Why are you arguing like this? Is this your father''s canteen, you jerk?" the scumbag challenged.


    I glared at him angrily and muttered, "You''re such a pain in the neck." I clenched my fist and punched him in the face, causing him to fall to the ground. As he looked up at me with rage in his eyes, I prepared to strike again.


    "You son of a bitch," he growled, getting up to retaliate. He raised his hand to hit me, but just then, someone pushed me back and stood in front of me, taking the blow instead. I stared at the person in disbelief. It was...


    To be continued...

 Chapter 11 - The Unfading Feelings

    I glanced over and saw Tevin. He turned his face towards me and asked, "You okay, Rehaan?"


    "Yeah, I''m fine," I replied. There was blood on his lips, but he still looked at me to make sure I was okay. We locked eyes for a moment.


    When the Professor arrived, the students scattered in different directions. I grabbed Tevin''s hand and we ran towards the field, finding ourselves alone. I helped him sit down and hurried to the storeroom to get a bandage. I also grabbed a bottle and returned to his side. He was examining his wound. I sat beside him, trying to smile, but he didn''t smile back. I could tell he was furious and didn''t want to talk to me, all because he had just been slapped because of me.


    Tevin," I say as I pull out the bandage from my pocket, "Here, put it on your wounds."


    "Oh! I just hit him for you and you can''t even treat my wound. Do you hate me that much?"


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    "No, I don''t hate you," I say, looking at him. "I just... I just can''t bear to see you hurt because of me."


    "Rehaan, it''s not your fault. I was the one who took that slap instead of you. And if you''re worried that I''ll hate you for it, my answer is no. No matter what, I can''t hate you," he says, looking at me.


    "Thank you and sorry for saying those things to you that day," he says. I try to understand his words and hesitate to move closer to him to treat his wound. He keeps his face forward, waiting for me to act.


    "Ouch, it hurts," he says, looking at me and touching his lips.


    "What''s wrong? Does it hurt? I''m sorry, Tevin," I say, realizing he just wants my attention. I look at him and ask, "Are you okay?"


    "I''m fine, my friend. Tevin is always there for his friends," he says proudly.


    "It''s a relief that the seniors informed the principal about the fraudulent activities the students from the other college were involved in. Otherwise, it would have been a big problem," I mention.


    "Huh, are you just going to stand there? Please, treat my wound. It''s hurting", he insists.


    "Rehaan," he said softly.


    I responded with a gentle "Hmm."


    "Rehaan, are you interested in boys?" he asked.


    To be continued....

 Chapter 12 - Opening Up To Each Other

    Rehaan, are you interested in guys?"


    "What? What are you talking about?" I was taken aback.


    "I know. Don''t keep it a secret from me."


    "No, it''s not... Let''s just go to class." I said as I began to walk, but he grabbed my hand and stopped me.


    "Rehaan, tell me."


    "No, I''m not..."


    Tevin motioned for me to sit next to him. I sat down, feeling nervous.


    I apologize for making you feel uneasy, Rehaan. It was never my intention to make you uncomfortable.


    "If I agree," I pondered, "what will happen? Will you shun me? Will everyone despise me for being different?"


    "I can''t speak for others, but I won''t. I may not understand same-sex love, as it''s unfamiliar to me. No one has ever explained it to me."


    "No one can instruct you. You must come to understand it on your own."


    "Rehaan, I totally get what you are feeling inside. But can you please give me a little time to really understand you?"


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "Why do you even want to understand me?"


    "Because you''re my best friend, and I genuinely regret what I said that day. I''m truly sorry."


    "It''s alright, everyone tends to think that way."


    "Don''t include me in that. You know, Rehaan, you''re my safe haven, and now I want to be yours. I promise to keep everything between us a secret." He gently holds my hand. "I promise."


    I smile and gaze at him. "You don''t hate me, do you?"


    I''m not capable of doing that, and you''re well aware of it, right?


    "Hmm," I respond, "how did you figure it out?"


    "About you."


    "Hmm."


    "The day we argued. It was obvious that you were upset because I spoke negatively about you."


    "I am who I am and I..."


    "No need to explain, you don''t have to. You''re perfectly fine. There''s nothing wrong with you. It''s just love."


    "How do you know that?"


    "Because I did some investigating on that day."


    ¡°For me?¡±


    ¡°Of course, yes, and please don''t ignore me from now on¡±.


    I was happy. The person I least expected to understand me turned out to be the one who promised to be my safe haven. I''m not sure if he meant it, but it made me happy.


    "Thanks, Tevin," I reply.


    "It''s okay. Now, tell me who that is. Do I know them?" he asks.


    "I''m not telling. No chance," I say as I walk away.


    "Hey, what''s the big secret? Just tell me. I want to know," he persists.


    "Why should I? I''m not telling you. I don''t want to," I respond.


    "Come on, I''m your best friend," he says.


    I smile and say, "So what?"


    "You know who I have a crush on. Can''t you tell me who yours is?" he stops me. "Tell me, or I won''t share my secrets anymore."


    "I''d rather not hear about it."


    "Come on, Rehaan, act like you care¡±.


    "Alright, you''re curious about who it is."


    "Indeed," he replies, leaning in to listen attentively.


    "Are you prepared to hear the name?"


    "Yes."


    " Tevin the person I have feelings for is..."


    To be continued¡­

 Chapter 13 - The Last Day

    "Tevin, the one I have feelings for, is...a boy." he glanced at me.


    "Alright, don''t tell me now. Let me know when you''re ready. I hope he''s a great guy."


    "Yes, he''s the absolute best."


    "Is he better than me?" he inquires.


    I gaze at him. He''s eagerly awaiting my response. "Absolutely, without a doubt."


    He nibbles on his lip. "Well, I don''t care." he walks away.


    I grin and grab onto his shoulder.


    "Are you feeling jealous?" I inquire.


    "No, I''m not."


    "Aww...you''re so jealous," I tease, flashing a smile. We stroll together towards our class, and he keeps asking me who''s the best. I reply, saying it''s the person I love, but little does he know it''s him. That day holds a special place in my heart, the day he stood up for me and made me feel alright. I can still feel the warmth of his hand.


    Soon, the second-year exams arrive, and we''re on our way to third year. During that time, Tevin introduces me to his new girlfriend, Tia. She''s a first-year student from the English department. He tells me that she''s the one he''s seriously dating. I try to keep my expression normal and wish them the best. It''s bittersweet for me, as I''m sad but also happy that he''s finally taking relationships seriously. With the exams approaching, I become busy with studying, having a lot on my plate.


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    On the day of the exam, after we finished, all the students were busy making plans for the vacation. Tevin and I were sitting on the marble chair in front of the college.


    "So, what''s your plan, Rehaan?" Tevin asked.


    "Nothing in particular. I just need to visit some family members and maybe spend the rest of the time with my family. My sister is coming home this vacation from boarding school," I replied.


    "Oh, Maahi! I''ve never met her in person. Has she been staying there for a long time?" Tevin inquired.


    "Yes, she was upset when we sent her to boarding school. So, she refused to come here. But my father already mentioned that after she completes her 10th grade, she will join a nearby school for higher secondary education," I explained.


    "That''s good to hear," Tevin said.


    "What about you, Tevin? What are your plans for today?" I asked.


    "I... haven''t decided yet," Tevin replied.


    "Do you want to come to my house?" I offered.


    "Me?" Tevin seemed surprised.


    "Yes, you only came once before. If you want to come, you''re always welcome," I assured him.


    "Are you sure? Is that a good idea?" Tevin hesitated.


    "If not, I wouldn''t have bothered asking you."


    "Alright then, let''s get moving."


    "Right now? Don''t you want to hang around here a bit longer?"


    "Nah, it''s dull."


    "Hmm." I reply and start walking with Tevin. As I glance to the side, I notice Tia. I halt Tevin in his tracks.


    "Tevin, Tia is looking at you"


    "So what?" he retorts.


    "Don''t you want to have a chat with her?"


    "Nah, we''re no longer together," he states and continues walking.


    "What?!"


    To be continued...

 Chapter 14 - Feeling Love And Safety.

    "What...you guys broke up...seriously?"


    "I''m not really in the mood to talk about it right now. Let''s just go."


    I glance at Tia, noticing the sadness in her eyes. However, Tevin grabs my hand and pleads for us to leave, so I decide to go with him. We walk towards his car and he takes the driver''s seat. I quickly call my mother to let her know we have a guest and then settle into the passenger seat. Tevin starts driving the car.


    As we arrive at my house, he parks the car and we make our way to the front door. Normally, Tevin is quite talkative when he''s driving, but today he remains silent. I can''t shake the feeling that something is off, but I don''t want to bring it up just yet. I ring the doorbell and my mother opens the door.


    "You''re here," she says, taking Tevin''s hand as they entered "It''s great to see you, Tevin"


    Tevin smiles. My father was in the hall, reading the newspaper while sitting on a chair.


    "Pa, I''m here," I announce.


    "Oh, we were waiting for you boys," he responds, looking at us.


    "Oh really," I reply, sitting down on the chair with Rehaan.


    "Hello, Tevin. How are you?" my father asks.


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "I''m fine, uncle."


    "Rehaan, how was the exam?" my father turns to me and inquires.


    "Well, it wasn''t easy, but it wasn''t too tough either."


    "Did you write down the answers you knew?"


    "Yeah, I only knew the answers to a few questions. As for the rest, I''m not really sure. I just hope I don''t end up failing".


    "Don''t be pessimistic. Relax, forget about it. Even if you don''t succeed, you can always try again. So, don''t stress".


    "Yeah, sure."


    "How did your exam go, Tevin?"


    "It went okay."


    "Oh, you don''t have to worry, Tevin will definitely pass." I said confidently.


    "Keep it up, Tevin. Rehaan speaks highly of you." He mentions with a smile.


    "Enough talking, let''s go eat." She adds, motioning for Tevin to join us.We all gathered around the dining table.


    "Tevin, come here," she says as she serves him fish curry. "It''s your favorite salmon curry."


    "How did you know, aunty?"


    "Rehaan mentioned that it''s the fish you like the most," Mom replied kindly.


    "Thank you, aunty." He then looks at me, Rehaan. "When did you tell her?"


    "When I called her and mentioned that we were coming. She asked me about your favorite dish."


    "You didn''t have to do that," he says.


    "Tevin, it''s not a problem. My mother always wants to cook for you. Today is the day."


    "Yes, son, don''t worry. I am happy," she says. "Now eat the food and give me some credit."


    "Okay, aunty," he says and starts eating.


    "It''s really delicious, aunty."


    "Ha, that''s a relief then."


    Then consume a large amount, my boy," she mentions.


    It was a typical family lunch. Following the meal, we both settled in my room. Tevin was seated in silence.


    "Tevin, what''s wrong?" I inquire.


    "What?"


    "I''m not sure, but something seems off." I observe him and comment. He gazes at me, closes his eyes, and inhales deeply.


    "How did you figure out that something''s bothering me?"


    "I know. Now, tell me what''s going on."


    "Rehaan, I''m facing an issue and it''s really bothering me."


    "What''s the matter?"


    To be continued...

 Chapter 15- Comfort Zone

    "What''s happen?" I inquire.


    "My father instructed me to pursue *B.Ed. after finishing my degree," he explained with a sigh.


    "But I thought you wanted to attend music college instead, didn''t you mention that to him?"


    "I did, and I tried to persuade him," he replied, rolling up his sleeve to reveal a wound on his arm. "This is the result." Tevin rolled his eyes.


    I reach out and hold his hand gently, concern evident in my voice.


    "What''s wrong, Tevin? Did your father beat you?" He meets my gaze but remains silent.


    Worried, I ask again, "Tevin, are you alright?"


    Tears well up in his eyes as he looks at me. Without hesitation, he moves closer and embraces me tightly, seeking comfort. It''s a side of him I''ve never seen before, and it breaks my heart. Knowing his family''s strict nature, I can''t bear to see him like this.


    "Rehaan, I feel so lost and helpless," Tevin admits, his voice filled with disappointment.


    I respond with empathy, "I understand that it''s incredibly tough, Tevin, but you have to stay strong". He nods, acknowledging my words.


    "Tevin, do you want my help? I can talk with your father," I offer.


    "Not at the moment. I''m already exhausted. All I want is to rest for now," Tevin replies.


    "In that case, would you like to lie down on the bed?" I inquire.


    "Rehaan...let me stay like this for a while," he says, embracing me even tighter.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon."Hmm," I nod, gently patting his head.


    After some time, he releases his grip on me and sits up straight.


    "Are you feeling better now? Should I get you some water?" I ask, expressing concern.


    "No, I''m not thirsty," he responds.


    "Alright. But if you feel like it, you can take some time to rest," I suggest.


    "Rehaan...don''t you have any questions for me?" Tevin asks, taking a deep breath.


    "You would have let me know if it was okay" I smile and hold his right hand "I understand that you may not feel comfortable sharing everything with me, but please know that I am here for you no matter what, I promise"


    He sits facing me. "My father slapped me on my face yesterday when I said I want to follow my dreams. And my dream is to become a singer," he said, pointing to the wound on his hand. "But this arm injury was not intentional. It happened when he found out from my teacher that I still take the car to college even after he warned me, so he got extremely angry and pushed me hard, causing me to hit the table and get this injury."


    "Did you apply medicine?"


    "Yes, I have. Don''t worry."


    "Tevin, do you want to stay here today?"


    "No, Rehaan, if I don''t go home today, it will be a big problem," he said.


    I couldn''t force him, as I don''t know what his parents are like. He left soon after telling me that. I lay on my bed, thinking about Tevin. My mother came into my room and sat beside me. I sat up.


    "Rehaan, are you sleeping, son?" she asked.


    "No, mother, what''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, you looked worried, so I came to ask if everything is alright."


    "Yes, mother, but I was just a little worried about Tevin."


    "What happened to him?"


    "Just a small issue with his family, that''s all".


    She gazes at me. "Don''t worry, son. Everything will work out in the end."


    "Yes, mom. I really hope so."


    "Rehaan..."


    "Yeah?"


    "Is that Tevin?" she inquires.


    "What do you mean, mom?" I replied, puzzled.


    "The one you''re in love with, is it Tevin...


    (*B.Ed. is the Bachelors of teacher education degree)


    To be continued...

 Chapter 16 - Confronting The Emotion

    "Is Tevin the one you love?" I stared at her in disbelief. The thought of my mother finding out about this was unimaginable.


    "Wait, Mom," I stammered, my voice filled with panic.


    "Rehaan, that day when you were drinking, I needed to make a call but my phone was out of balance. So, I used yours. When I unlocked the screen, I saw your quiz about sexuality." She looked at me, her hand reaching out to hold mine.


    "I''m sorry, son, that I saw it."


    "Mom, I''m sorry for being gay," I said, my voice breaking as I bent down and started sobbing.


    She gently cupped my face in her hands. "You don''t need to apologize for who you are, my dear. Being gay is not wrong. It''s not a crime that


    you have to say sorry to me for."


    "Mom, are you okay with this?"


    "I''m more than okay, Rehaan. I love you just the way you are. And I''m sorry if we made you feel like we couldn''t accept you for who you are."


    I embraced her tightly, tears streaming down my face.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    "I was terrified, mother. Terrified that you would be disappointed in me."


    "How could I ever be disappointed in my wonderful son? You''ve never let me down. I''m sorry for making you feel like you couldn''t openly share with us about the person you care for."


    "I''m sorry too for assuming you wouldn''t accept me."


    "It''s alright, my son. It''s not your fault. But did he know?" she inquired.


    I sat up straight. "Know what?"


    "That you love Tevin."


    "Why do you assume it''s him? It could be anyone."


    "It can only be him. You may not realize it, but you always speak highly of him and show care towards him. Isn''t it obvious?"


    "Was it really that obvious?"


    "Absolutely. And you brought him here today to cheer him up when he was feeling low, didn''t you?"


    "Hmm. Then are you okay with Tevin?"


    "I''m fine with who ever you like. And Tevin, he''s a good person. I''ve always liked him. He''s even cuter than you. Let him be my son-in-law."


    "Mother, you''re playfully teasing me," I chuckled, wiping away my tears.


    "I was just joking around. But, have you shared your feelings with him?"


    "No, mother. I''m afraid he won''t be able to accept it."


    "Then, are you going to let yourself become like *Devdas, constantly pining for him and eventually dying without expressing your love?"


    "It''s not like that."


    "Rehaan, I''m not saying that he will definitely reciprocate your feelings. But you should let him know about your love. If he doesn''t feel the same way, then it''s time to move on and explore other possibilities. There are plenty of handsome boys out there."


    "Mother, please stop."


    "Do you want me to assist you?"


    "No, I had planned to confess my feelings to him on the last day of our college. That way, even if I faced rejection, I wouldn''t have to see his face anymore."


    (*Devads is character in a Bengali novella by Saratchandra Chattopadhyay)


    To be continued...

 Chapter 17 - The Exam Days

    The third year came to an end and we were all busy with lab practicals because the final exam date had been announced. Our class was split into two groups, and as usual, Tevin and I were in the same group. We always helped each other out. Our professor came and provided a lot of assistance when we were together. I have to admit, she had her favorites in the class, and I happened to be one of them. I didn''t really like the idea, but there wasn''t much I could do about it. As the exam days approached, I had more tasks than anyone else in our class - the final exam, lab practical, project, and finally, confessing my feelings to Tevin.


    On the day of the final chemistry practical exam, we had a viva in the morning. I was incredibly nervous but had prepared as best as I could. Unfortunately, I ended up messing it up and only answered one question. Tevin helped calm me down and assured me that we could make up for it in the practical portion. It was then Tevin''s turn to go inside. I said a prayer for him and when he came out with a smile on his face, I could tell that everything had gone well for him. I was so happy for him. When I asked him about it, he happily confirmed that everything was okay.


    When the viva ended, our practical began. We were all given the questions and returned to our seats. I realized I hadn''t studied. I felt so nervous, having already messed up my viva, I didn''t want to fail this one too. Tevin was jotting down his answers rapidly. I knew he would ace it. He finished in record time and glanced over at me.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator."Rehaan, you''re struggling with the answer, aren''t you?"


    "Yeah, I don''t think I can do it."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll assist you," he whispered.


    "What about yours?"


    "It''s finished, as soon as I glanced at you, I could tell you were unsure of the answer. I hurried to write it down so I could assist you".


    I glanced at him and remained silent.


    "Rehaan, time is ticking fast."


    "Ha," I replied and began writing.


    Once I finished, we both handed our work to the teacher. Then we proceeded with our practical task. We both dove into our assignment. Tevin was deeply focused on his work, and I was too, but unfortunately, I failed on my first attempt. Normally, I excel in practical tasks, but today was different. As I glanced at Tevin, he looked back at me, silently asking if I was okay. I gave him a thumbs up and smiled. Despite feeling nervous, I didn''t want to distract Tevin any further. I made another attempt, but this time i couldn''t get the same value. At that moment, our professor entered the room and noticed my struggle. She approached me and inquired about the issue. I explained my problem to her. She kindly offered her assistance, which I gratefully accepted. After we finished, the professor instructed me to show my work to the external examiner. I walked over to the external and handed in my answer sheet. The professor went to help other students, and before leaving, I glanced at Tevin. He appeared tense and was clearly grappling with something...


    To be continued...

 Chapter 18 - The Silence

    I glanced at Tevin as I left. He seemed tense and was clearly struggling with something. I wanted to offer my help, but I knew I couldn''t. I stepped outside and waited for Tevin. He emerged later than expected and approached me when he saw me.


    "What''s wrong, Tevin?" I inquired as he tilted his head.


    "Nothing. Let''s head home," he replied.


    "How did the practical go?" I asked.


    "It was okay, but I''m a bit tired. Can we go home?" Tevin said.


    "Hmm," I responded with a nod.


    Tevin was quieter than usual, and it was evident that something was bothering him.


    As we made our way back home, I turned to him and asked, "What''s on your mind, Tevin?"


    "I messed up my practical," he confessed.


    "What? Really?"


    "I tried so many times, but I just couldn''t get the result I wanted."


    "Didn''t you ask the professor for help?"


    "I did, but she was too busy and didn''t pay attention to me. Although, I''m pretty sure she saw me trying to get her attention."


    "Hey, maybe she just didn''t notice?"


    "Hmm, maybe." He seemed disappointed.


    "Don''t worry, Tevin. You did well in the viva, so I''m sure your result will be good. Trust me."


    "I hope so too."


    I reached out and held his hands, giving them a comforting stroke. He looked at me and smiled.


    Even though I finished all my exams, there was one important task that I couldn''t complete. It was my confession to Tevin. I ended up canceling our plan because he was in a bad mood and I was too scared to tell him at that time.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    After the exams, we didn''t see each other much, but we chatted almost every day. When the day of the results came, I was extremely nervous to check them. Thankfully, my parents were there to support me, so I mustered up the courage to search for my results. The website was a bit slow, but I managed to find them. I immediately told my parents about the mess I made in the lab. My father smiled and reassured me that it was okay, no matter what, we still needed to see the results. We hoped for the best.


    After a while, I finally got my results. I couldn''t believe my eyes. I had passed all of my exams and I was overjoyed. My parents hugged me tightly, and my mother reminded me of something important. She said, "Remember, unpredictable things happen in life, but never lose hope." I looked at her and smiled, feeling grateful for their support.


    Once my parents left the room, I couldn''t help but glance at Tevin''s results. I was shocked when I saw that he had failed one subject, chemistry. I wondered if it was because of the practical part of the exam.


    I immediately called him, but he didn''t answer. My worries started to escalate, so I kept calling him until he finally picked up the call.


    Hey Rehaan, wanna meet? On the other side he asks.


    "Sure, should I come over to your place?"


    Nah, meet me at the college ground. I am there, he says.


    "Why are you at the college ground?"


    Just come here, Rehaan. I need to talk to you.


    "Alright, I''ll be there in a jiffy. Wait for me."


    I hang up the call, get ready, and head towards my parents.


    "Mom, Tevin called me. I''m going to meet him."


    "Okay, son. Take care," she says.


    I hopped on my bike and raced towards the college ground. As I approached, I noticed him sitting there, his face filled with pain. I walked up to him and he glanced at me, his lips stained with blood. Without thinking, I gently reached out and touched his face.


    "Tevin...what happened? Did your father hurt you?"


    "You''ve got some nerve to ask that, after ruining my life..."


    To be continued...

 Chapter 19- No More Friends

    Tevin''s anger was evident as he exclaimed, "You''ve got some nerve asking me that, after ruining my life!" He forcefully pulled his hands away from mine.


    "I''m sorry, but I don''t comprehend," I replied, genuinely confused.


    "Seriously?" Tevin stood up, frustration etched on his face.


    "You truly have no clue. So, explain to me, how on earth did you manage to pass the exam?"


    "What are you talking about, Tevin?"


    Tevin was furious as he asked, "Can you explain how you managed to pass the practical when you messed up all the exams? I put in so much effort and got nothing".


    I know he was sad, I struggled to find the right words to calm him down. "Tevin, maybe we should consider requesting a revaluation."


    "Seriously? Rehaan, the teacher''s favorite. I completely messed up my lab practical, and you''re suggesting revaluation?" He angrily grabbed my collar. "Without my help, you wouldn''t have even passed the written exam, you idiot." He forcefully pushed me backwards.


    I could tell he was furious, but his words were getting out of hand. "I understand that you''re upset, Tevin, but..."


    "Upset?" he interrupted, cutting off my words. "For a cheater like you."


    "What did I do wrong..."


    "You''re aware that the professor only assisted the students who were on her favorite line. And obviously, I wasn''t on that list. She knew I needed help but didn''t bother to ask me. Yet, she willingly helped you without any request. You truly are the teacher''s pet".


    "Tevin, I know you''re angry, but it wasn''t my fault. I thought you would have understood".


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it."Wooh Rehaan knows everything. But you wouldn''t have passed third year without me. You scumbag".


    "Tevin, why are you getting angry with me? Is it my fault that the teacher helped me. Is it my fault that the teacher didn''t help you".


    "You didn''t even look at me".


    "Yes, I did, before I left the class. You seem to be worried, but last time I couldn''t do anything".


    "Rehaan, you didn''t even bother to help me or ask the teacher to help me, you just left after your result was finalised. You know why... because you were only thinking about yourself."


    "Tevin, don''t say things like that". I took a deep breath. "Tevin, let''s talk when you''ve calmed down. I''m going to buy some bandages.


    I''m going. Tevin was furious.


    "''Have you ever satisfied yourself like this so the teacher can help you pass the exam?


    I turn round and walk towards him. "What did you say now?".


    "Why?" "I''m shocked. I mean, have you ever slept with the teacher..."


    I slap him across the face before ending the dialogue.


    "You scumbag, Tevin. How can you say something like that when you know everything about me?"


    "You know what people say? They say that gay people always want to have sex. And you didn''t even tell me who you love. Maybe you were doing something wrong behind my back." He comes closer to me. "Listen, I will tell the whole college about your dirty character," he says.


    "Tevin, did you always think of me like that?"


    "So what?"


    Tears start streaming down my face. I never even imagined that he would think of me that way.


    "Do you realize that today is the day you show me your true colors?" I tell him.


    "And you too," he says. "I don''t want to see you in my life anymore, Rehaan."


    He says and walks away.


    "You despise me to such an extent, don''t you? You were so eager to find out who I have feelings for, weren''t you? Well, listen up, the one I love is none other than you, Tevin."


    "What?..."


    To be continued...

 Chapter 20 - The Late Confession.

    "What?" I could see the shock etched on Tevin''s face.


    "Why are you so surprised? Didn''t you notice? And you never will," I said. he remained silent.


    After a pause, he looked at me and asked in jest, "You loved me, really?"


    "I was also taken aback, Tevin. How could I love a despicable person like you?"


    "Did you befriend me for that reason? Well, listen to me, Rehaan. I am not gay, and I don''t want to be like you," he shouted at me.


    "Yes, I know I shouldn''t have. From now on, I don''t want to see you anymore. Let''s put an end to our friendship here," I said, walking away and taking my bike with me. I glanced at Tevin through the mirror, and he was still looking at me. I knew he couldn''t handle the truth, but I couldn''t bear to face him any longer.


    When I returned, my father was nowhere to be found. I rushed to my mother and burst into tears.


    "What''s wrong, my child?" She inquired with concern.


    I sobbed uncontrollably and couldn''t find the words to explain. She gently patted my back, urging me to speak. Eventually, I poured my heart out to her. She embraced me tightly.


    "It''s alright, Rehaan. Life sometimes gives us hardships. You must move forward from this," she comforted me.


    "But why couldn''t Tevin understand me? Why do people view being gay as a crime?" I questioned.


    "Rehaan, no matter what he said, don''t let his words linger in your heart. We stand by you, my son," she reassured me.


    My father overheard our conversations. He stepped outside once more.


    She embraced me tightly until my tears ceased. Then, she led me to the kitchen.


    "Rehaan, I''ll whip up something for you quickly. Stay here," she instructed, settling me down on a chair.


    After a while, my father returned, clutching something in his hands.


    "Hey, don''t bother making anything. I''ve already bought food," my father announced.


    My mother glanced at his hands and asked, "What do you have there?"


    Rehaan''s favorite Biriyani is ready. Let''s dig in," he said with a warm smile as he handed it over to mom.


    My father sat beside me, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. He looked at me and said, "Rehaan, we may not be able to change people''s attitudes, but we will always love you, son."


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Tears welled up in my eyes as I gazed at him. "Pa, did you hear our conversation?"


    "Hmm... and remember, there are many handsome boys in this world. You are as precious as a diamond, and finding a son-in-law won''t be a problem for us. Got it?"


    I embraced him tightly. "Thank you, pa."


    ¡°And Rehaan, if there is anything that''s troubling you, please don''t hesitate to share it with us. We are always by your side, supporting you through thick and thin¡±.


    "I will, Pa," I sobbed.


    "Feel free to cry, my son. We are here for you. Your parents will always be here, shielding you from anything that brings you tears," he reassured, glancing at my mother. She approached us and enveloped me in a warm embrace.


    That was the final time I laid eyes on Tevin. After that, he vanished completely from my life. He deactivated his Instagram account and got a new sim card. Then, three months later, our college organized a ceremony to honor the top students in our department. We all gathered for a small get-together. Tevin was noticeably absent. As we sat in the canteen sipping tea, our professor mentioned Tevin''s name once more. She revealed that Tevin''s father had called her and spoken ill of me. This news piqued the curiosity of all the students including me.


    ¡°What''s the deal with Rehaan? Why, ma''am?¡±


    "He said Rehaan passed because he copied Tevin''s answers." She says, "Isn''t that ridiculous? I was so surprised by his father''s attitude."


    "And was Tevin with him?" one of our classmates asks.


    "No, his father said he was going to send Tevin abroad." She said.


    "Abroad...why?"


    "Because he failed. His father is so disappointed in him."


    "That''s really sad for him."


    When they were both having a conversation, my mind wandered to how he must be doing. Is he okay? Did his father mistreat him? I wish I had spoken to him more patiently. He doesn''t have anyone in his life to confide in.


    "His father is too harsh. He torments his son in every way," remarked another student.


    I turned my attention to her. "What did you just say?" I inquired.


    "Don''t you know Rehaan? His father has always subjected him to torment since he was a child. That''s why he excels academically, so he doesn''t disappoint his parents," she explained.


    "And to top it off, he used to ride his bike to class. His father didn''t allow it, and he was scolded for it," chimed in another student.


    ¡°I feel bad for Tevin. He completely disconnected from us. He even mentioned that nobody cared about him and that he didn''t have any real friends¡±.


    "How did you find out about this?" I inquire.


    "Tevin told us. He was really emotional while sharing his story. I don''t think anyone was there to lend an ear," another student reveals.


    ¡®Alone, with no one to listen, truly¡¯. I felt consumed by anger and sorrow during that period.


    I seethed with anger and sorrow, left without a single soul to hear my thoughts. I chose not to respond, instead sitting in silence. In that moment, our friendship felt utterly counterfeit to me. He even demanded that I keep it all a secret. Did he ever truly mean anything he said to me? I feel sorrow for his predicament, but the more the students spoke, the more my hatred festered.


    Upon returning home that day, I purged all traces of him from my phone, deleting every photo except for one - our final class picture. As I entered the house, I found my younger sister waiting for me. I approached her, leaving all my sadness behind. I had already instructed my mother not to disclose Tevin''s existence to my sister. I didn''t want her to experience the sorrow of discovering my own woeful love story.


    It was quite a surprise when I heard about him from Maahi after all these years. He has become the lead singer of a renowned band and has gained a massive fan following, including my sister. Initially, I couldn''t believe that the person who went abroad is now a famous singer. I felt curious about how this transformation occurred, but then I realized it''s not my place to inquire.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 21 - Present Day

    (Present Life)


    Rehaan was startled by the sound of a knock on his door. He quickly gathered his thoughts and carefully stashed away a photograph, hiding it beneath his cupboard.


    "Brother, can you help me?" Maahi''s voice came from the other side of the door.


    Rehaan took a moment to compose himself before responding, "Yes, I''m here. Give me a second."


    He walked towards the door and opened it to find his sister leaning against the wall, clutching a book in her hands.


    "Brother help me. I can''t solve this maths problem".


    "Alright, Let''s tackle this math problem together," Rehaan offers.


    They both settle down on the chairs by the table. Rehaan begins explaining the problem to Maahi, but notices her glancing at her phone.


    "Maahi, you seem a bit distracted," he remarks.


    "Oh, no, I wasn''t," Maahi denies.


    "Come on, spill the beans. What''s going on?" Rehaan inquires.


    "Brother, please don''t tell our parents. I''m facing a little trouble," Maahi confesses.


    Leaning closer, Rehaan asks, "What''s troubling you, Maahi? Share it with me."


    Maahi asked nervously, "You won''t tell our parents, will you?"


    Rehaan assured her, "No, I won''t."


    "There''s a boy who keeps following me, telling me he likes me and wants me to like him back. I''ve made it clear I''m not interested, but he won''t stop texting me".


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    "There''s this guy who keeps following me, saying he likes me and wants me to like him back. I''ve already told him I''m not interested, but he won''t stop texting me". Maahi explains, taking a deep breath.


    "Is he from your school?" Rehaan inquires.


    "No, he''s a stranger. He waits outside our school," Maahi reveals, trying to hide her fear.


    "How did he even get your number?"


    "I have no clue. It''s too easy to get someone''s number these days."


    "Is he the one messaging you now?"


    "Yes, he''s waiting for my response to his confession. I''m really scared."


    "Then tell him to meet at Youth Cafe tomorrow".


    "What?" Maahi is too shocked to respond.


    "Ask him to meet there. I''ll handle it," Rehaan assures.


    "Are you going alone?"


    "No, we''ll both go."


    "No, I''m too scared. I can''t..."


    "Maahi, don''t worry. It''s important to confront your fears, and your brother is here to support you". He reassures her as he gently takes her hand. "Maahi...send him a message."


    "Right now?" she questions.


    He confirms. She hesitates, then grabs her phone, sends a text about the meeting, and sets it aside.


    "Alright, let''s show him he messed with the wrong person," Maahi declares.


    "That''s my girl," Rehaan praises, patting Maahi''s head. "Now, let''s get back to studying."


    "Okay," she agrees with a nod.


    (Next Day)


    Rehaan and Maahi were patiently waiting for Sam at the cafe.


    "Maahi what was his name?" Rehaan inquires.


    "Sam," Maahi replies.


    "Hmm... Sam. Why hasn''t he arrived yet?" Rehaan checks his watch and glances at Maahi.


    "How would I know?" she says, pressing her stomach. "I''m famished, brother," she adds.


    "I am too. How about we grab a bite while we wait?"


    "Sounds good."


    "What would you like?"


    "How about pizza?"


    "I like that idea."


    "And for drinks?"


    "Grape juice."


    "Alright, cool."


    He says and proceeds to order the food. After some time, their order arrives at the table and they begin eating.


    "This is delicious, brother."


    "Yes, it is. Should we get some takeaway?"


    "Hmm, I agree."


    Maahi and Rehaan were having a chat while enjoying their meal. Suddenly, a boy enters the cafe and scans the room. He spots Maahi and walks towards her.


    "Maahi, are you already eating?" he asks.


    Maahi and Rehaan look at him. He smiles at Rehaan and takes a seat across from them.


    "Is he your friend, Maahi?" Sam asks, pointing towards Rehaan.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 22 - The Mystery Man

    "Hey Maahi, is he your friend?" Sam asks, pointing towards Rehaan.


    "Nah, he''s actually my older brother," she replies.


    "Oh, my bad," Sam apologizes, getting up and bowing respectfully. "Nice to meet you, brother." Rehaan gives him a quick once-over.


    "Is he the one?" Rehaan whispers, looking at Maahi.


    She shakes her head and turns to Sam. "Who are you? Have we met before?" Maahi asks, looking confused.


    "I''m Sam."


    "Wait, which Sam?" Maahi questions.


    "The one you called to come here."


    Rehaan leaned forward, his hands firmly planted on the table, causing the juice to tremble.


    "Are you the one following my sister? You stalker"


    "I''m not a stalker, I''m Sam, her college senior," he replied.


    "What kind of senior?" she inquired.


    Rehaan paused, then pointed towards Maahi. "Her brother is right there. Still pretending," he remarked. "Is he the one bothering you, Maahi?"


    "No, brother, I don''t recognize him," she responded.


    "Wait, hold on, I''m not a psycho. I''m just a regular guy," he insisted. "And Maahi and I have met before."


    "How?" Rehaan questioned.


    "I helped Maahi out once when she was in trouble," he explained.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "What?" she asked, clearly puzzled.


    "Maahi, remember when you complained about a senior to the principal during your first year, and I was the one who supported you? Don''t you remember?" Sam tells her.


    "Senior...complain...?" she says, pondering deeper. "Sam, are you talking about our super senior from the Music department?" she asks.


    "Yes, it''s me. You remember," Sam confirms.


    "Hmm," Maahi nods.


    "Then why are you here, Sam?" Rehaan asks.


    "Maahi told me to come here. She texted me, look," he says, showing his chats.


    "So, it was you who keeps bothering me. No, wait, but why?" she asks.


    "Me? No way. Why would I?" Sam denies. "I am..."


    "Listen to me carefully," Rehaan interrupts, cutting off his words. "Don''t you dare disturb my sister again, or I will..."


    "Sorry, brother. Maahi, I think there is some misunderstanding. Brother, we have to figure out what."


    "What happened, Sam?" a voice from behind Sam asks.


    A man wearing a black hoodie, black mask, and cap stood next to Sam. Rehaan and Maahi glanced at him. The man locked eyes with Sam before turning his gaze to Rehaan. His eyes widened upon seeing Rehaan, as if he had stumbled upon a long-lost treasure.


    "Well, well... it seems you''re not alone. Are you here for a confrontation?" Rehaan remarked, his voice laced with curiosity.


    Sam swiftly intervened, eager to dispel any notions of hostility. "No, no, he''s my friend. We''re not here to fight," he clarified.


    "If you''re itching for a battle, we''re more than willing to oblige," his companion chimed in, taking a seat beside Sam.


    Rehaan scrutinized the man intently, his mind racing to unravel the enigma before him. "Wait a moment, why does that voice sound so familiar?" he muttered to himself, his eyes darting around in search of a connection.


    With a mischievous grin, Sam''s friend removed his cap, revealing his true identity. In that fleeting moment, Rehaan''s gaze locked onto him, refusing to waver, as if determined to uncover the secrets hidden within. As the mask slipped away, Maahi gasped in astonishment, while Rehaan found himself completely taken aback.


    ''Tevin... why on earth is he here?'' Rehaan pondered silently, his body frozen in place. ''Of all the times to encounter my first love and my worst friend, it had to be in the most unexpected circumstances''.


    Tevin paid no attention to anyone else, his eyes fixated solely on Rehaan. An uneasy feeling washed over Rehaan, causing him to avoid meeting Tevin''s gaze.


    Maahi''s voice burst with exhilaration as she called out, "Tevin!" Her eyes sparkled with recognition. "I can''t believe it''s you, the Tevin from the Youth Dreamers group!"


    Tevin responded to Maahi, "Indeed, it is I."


    He shifted his attention towards Rehaan and uttered, "It has been quite a while, my dear friend." A warm smile graced Tevin''s face, radiating genuine joy.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 23 - The uninvited Guest

    Rehaan struggled to find the right words to respond.


    Maahi turned to him and asked, "Do you two know each other?"


    Rehaan quickly replied, "No, I don''t know him."


    Despite Tevin calling him brother, Rehaan insisted, "He must have mistaken me for someone else." Ignoring Tevin, he turned to Sam and said, "Let''s leave now. I hope you won''t bother her again."


    He then turned to Maahi and said, "Let''s go."


    Maahi stopped him, saying, "Wait, we need to discuss this matter."


    Caught off guard by Tevin''s presence, Rehaan forgot the reason for their visit. "Let''s just wrap this up."


    Maahi glanced at Sam, her eyes filled with confusion. "Senior, I swear I didn''t send you any text," she insisted.


    Sam looked at her incredulously. "What do you mean? You''ve been texting me for almost three months," he replied, pulling out his phone to show her their chat history.


    As Maahi scrolled through the messages, Rehaan joined them. "Wait, I didn''t send these messages," she exclaimed, her gaze shifting towards Rehaan. "Something is definitely wrong, brother."


    Her hands trembled with anxiety as she tried to make sense of the situation. "Wait, it''s my number, but I didn''t send you any of these messages," Maahi said, showing her phone to Sam. There was no evidence of any message she had supposedly sent.


    "I''m not lying, Maahi. You gave me your number yourself," Sam insisted.


    Maahi turned to Rehaan, seeking his support. "Brother, I don''t understand what''s happening. I swear, I didn''t do any of this," she said, her voice filled with panic.


    Rehaan gently held her hands and comforted her. "Maahi, calm down. I know you well enough to know you wouldn''t do something like this. Let me handle it. Don''t worry, your brother is here for you."


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Tevin''s attention was fully on Rehaan.


    "Something is off, Sam. My sister said she''s being followed by someone. She was scared and confided in me. The guy''s name was Sam too. We thought it was the same person who''s been messaging her, but turns out it''s a different Sam. I''m confused now." Tevin looks at Maahi and then back at Sam. "So, you''re not a stalker. We''re not looking for you."


    Tevin turns to Maahi and interjects, "I hate to interrupt, Maahi, but there seems to be a big misunderstanding here. He''s not a stalker. He came because you texted him, saying you liked him," he explains.


    "Wait, what? Like him? No way," Maahi exclaims.


    "Wait, let me explain," Sam interrupts Maahi. "I''ve had a crush on her ever since college. I used to always admire her from afar. But then, I witnessed her rejecting a guy and saying she wasn''t interested in love. So, I decided to move on and honestly, I completely forgot about her after college. But then, out of the blue, I received a text from Maahi''s number about 6 months ago. I was surprised, to say the least. And not long after that, she confessed her love for me. It felt like destiny, so I told her I felt the same way. We started chatting frequently, but her messages were confusing and flirty. She even said some things that made me uncomfortable at first. I was certain that the Maahi I knew wouldn''t talk like that, which is why I asked her to meet me at the cafe." Sam explains.


    Maahi takes her phone and shows Sam the chat. "See, I never sent you a single message.."


    "How is that possible?" Sam questions.


    "Sam, can you show me the chat again?" Rehaan asks.


    Sam hands his phone to Rehaan. "The way this person chats doesn''t seem like Maahi, but the number is the same." After pondering for a moment, Rehaan turns to Maahi. "Maahi, did any of your friends play with your phone?"


    "No, brother. You know I never give my phone to anyone."


    Maahi, do you have any enemies? I mean, do you have issues with anyone?" Rehaan, her brother, inquires.


    "No, I don''t," Maahi responds after giving it some thought.


    "Are you sure? There was no issue at college," Rehaan asks again for clarification.


    "Maahi, the raging issue," Sam informs her.


    "Raging issue? What was that about, Maahi?" Rehaan questions.


    "That was during my first year in college. The issue was with a senior who tried to rag me, but I scolded him because ragging was not allowed. I complained to the principal and he was punished. However, he later apologized to me," Maahi explains.


    "Maahi, Who was that senior?" Rehaan asks.


    "Kiran," Maahi replies.


    "Kiran is my junior. The incident she mentioned, I was the one who helped her file the complaint," Sam reveals.


    Rehaan looks at Sam. "I think someone has hacked Maahi''s phone."


    To be continued...

 Chapter 24 - Unknown Person

    "I reckon someone might have hacked Maahi''s phone. Maybe it''s Kiran," Rehaan tells.


    "No, brother," Maahi insists.


    "Maahi, I''m just suspicious of him, not accusing. We need to uncover the truth," Rehaan says, glancing at Sam. "I''m sorry, Sam, for shouting at you. I truly apologize."


    "No worries, brother. I''m fine. I know you always act as a brother would. I understand," Sam replies.


    "Thank you for that," Rehaan says.


    "Now, what will you do about Maahi''s situation?" Sam asks Rehaan.


    "My uncle is a Sub Inspector here. I''ll ask for his help," Rehaan responds.


    "Do I have permission to come with you?" Sam asks.


    "You don''t have to. It''s my sister''s matter," Rehaan says.


    "Whoever did this also misled me. I''ll come with you too," Sam explains.


    "Okay, thank you," Rehaan acknowledges.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road."Hmm," Sam says, looking at Maahi. "Maahi, I''m sorry."


    "No, it''s okay," she says.


    They chatted for a while. Then, they all headed to the police station and filed a complaint with his uncle. After leaving the station, they were getting ready to go their separate ways.


    "I really hope we can catch the real culprit," Tevin says.


    Maahi glances at Sam. "I apologize for the trouble, senior," she says, then turns to Tevin. "Are you Sam''s friend, Tevin, sir?" she asks.


    Tevin looks at Sam and replies, "Yes, he is my best friend." He then turns back to Maahi. "And don''t call me sir, just call me Tevin, or you can call me brother."


    "Can I...?" she asks hesitantly, and Tevin nods. "Then I''ll call you brother Tevin."


    "And you''re the Maahi that he always talks about," Tevin says, looking at Rehaan. "I never realized you were Rehaan''s sister." He then looks back at Maahi.


    "Do you know my brother?" Maahi asks.


    Tevin pauses for a moment and looks at Rehaan. Rehaan was tensed. "Well, not exactly. He just resembles someone who is very dear to me. He mentioned it before," he explains, smiling at Rehaan.


    "Oh, I see," Maahi says, smiling awkwardly.


    Rehaan grasps Maahi''s hands and glances at Tevin before turning to Sam. "Alright, we''re heading out now," Rehaan declares.


    "Sure thing, bro. Just give me a call if you need anything," Sam offers.


    Rehaan nods in agreement. He then shifts his gaze to Tevin. "Looks like it''s time for us to go," he states as he starts walking.


    "Hold on a sec," Tevin interjects. Rehaan turns back as Tevin approaches him. "Could I have your number... Rehaan?" Tevin inquires.


    "I don''t really see the need to share my number with you," Rehaan responds, taking Maahi''s hand and vanishing from sight.


    Tevin watches Rehaan leave. ''He''s still upset with me,'' Tevin thinks to himself.


    "Hey Tevin, let''s head back," Sam suggests.


    "Alright. Let''s go," Tevin agrees, and they walk away.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 25 - Uncomfortable Feelings

    Home


    Rehaan lay on the bed, catching his mother''s attention. She approached Maahi and inquired about Rehaan''s well-being.


    "Maybe brother is concerned about me," Maahi replied, recounting the incident at the cafe.


    Sitting beside her, Mother expressed her frustration with people''s behavior nowadays. "I''ll make sure to teach that person a lesson once we find out who''s responsible."


    "I feel the same way, mother" Maahi agreed.


    Mother moved closer to Maahi. "Are you okay, dear?"


    "Yes, mom, I was scared too," Maahi reassured her.


    "Don''t worry, it''s not your fault, Maahi. Whoever did this will face consequences," Mother comforted her.


    "I hope so, mom," Maahi said, placing her hand on Mother''s shoulder. "But there was a silver lining."


    "What''s that, dear?"


    "I got to see my idol, Tevin," Maahi shared.


    Her mother''s eyes widen upon hearing the name.


    "Wait, who?" she asks.


    "Mom, Tevin. The guy whose photo is in my room. My idol," Maahi explains.


    "What happened then, Maahi? What about your brother?" Mother inquires.


    "It was amazing to meet him in person, but my brother was distant towards Tevin. I know he doesn''t like him, but he shouldn''t have acted that way."


    Her mother appears worried. Maahi observes her. "Mom, what''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, Maahi. I have some things to take care of. You just rest, okay?"


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    "Sure, Mom," she replies.


    Mother hurried to Rehaan''s room. Maahi noticed that she was tense. She entered the room and sat beside him.


    "Mother," he said calmly, getting up to sit on the bed.


    "Are you okay, son? I spoke to Maahi," Mother said.


    "I...I am fine," he replied, looking at her. "Are you worried about Maahi?"


    "No, I don''t need to worry about Maahi when you are with her," she said, holding his hand. "She mentioned that you saw Tevin. Are you okay, son?"


    "I''m okay, mom. I was just shocked because I never thought he would be there."


    "Did you talk to him?"


    "No, I was rude. I felt like he wanted to talk to me, but I didn''t want to. I hate it."


    Rehaan''s mother called him over and sat down beside him. "Son, I understand that you dislike him and that''s okay. But I don''t want to see you in pain anymore," she said, holding his hands tightly. "You can avoid him if you hate him, but if you''re not talking to him because you feel guilty, then I disagree. Rehaan, you did nothing wrong."


    "Mom...I," Rehaan''s voice broke.


    "My dear, if you ever come across him again and he wants to talk, just go ahead. You don''t have to hide away. Face him, have a conversation, and then come back. You''re strong and you know it."


    "What''s the point, mom? It''s all over. He ended it himself."


    "Hmm, I understand," she replied. "But Rehaan, when we examine our problems closely, everything in life happens for a reason. You need to discover that."


    "What do you mean, mom?" he inquired.


    "


    "I''m telling you this because I know you want to talk to him, but you''re afraid of getting hurt again," the mother says.


    "Mom, the way I spoke today, there''s no way he wants to see me again," Rehaan replies.


    "So you also want to resolve things with him, but something inside you is holding you back," the mother smiles. Rehaan remains silent.


    "If he feels guilty, he will come to you, son," the mother reassures.


    "But if he has a valid reason, do I have to forgive him, mom?" Rehaan asks.


    She smiles. "That''s up to you, son. It''s your life. I just wanted to advise you not to avoid him, that''s all," she explains. Rehaan nods.


    "But Rehaan, always prioritize your own happiness. We love you," she says.


    Rehaan smiles and hugs her, tears streaming down his face.


    Outside the room, Maahi overhears everything. She returns to her own room and grabs the temporary phone she had been using. She opens the chat and sends a message to Sam. It''s a new number that Maahi gave Sam to discuss the case.


    Hey Senior, it''s Maahi. Can we catch up? I have something important to discuss with you. she messages him.


    Not long after, he replies. Sure, let''s meet at the caf¨¦ we went to yesterday.


    Great, see you tomorrow at 10:40 am. she responds. When she receives the okay emoji, she puts her phone away. She walks to her room and takes a seat.


    "My brother has always been there for me. Now it''s my turn to return the favor." She reflects.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 26 - Maahis Plan

    The following day, Sam and Mahi meet up at the cafe.


    "I just wanted to apologize for yesterday," Mahi says.


    "No worries, I should be the one apologizing," Sam replies.


    "Thanks anyway, senior," she says.


    Sam nods. "Is everything okay, Mahi?" he asks.


    "Yes, everything''s fine."


    "What about the case? Any updates?"


    "My uncle has already begun the investigation. No need to worry."


    "I actually wanted to talk to you about something else," she mentions.


    "What is it?"


    Sam, have you heard about Tevin and my brother?" Maahi inquires.


    "What''s going on between them? Why do you ask?" Sam responds, taking a sip of water.


    "Well, I think they..." She pauses to clear her throat. "They were a couple," she reveals.


    "What?" He chokes, placing the glass on the table. "Are you serious?"


    "Yes, I overheard my brother and mother talking yesterday. I''m certain Tevin was the one who broke my brother''s heart."


    "Huh! Tevin? No way, he wouldn''t do that. I know him."


    She interrupts him and says, "Why do you think that? Are you against it?"


    "Hey, no, that''s not what I meant. I believe Tevin wouldn''t hurt someone he loves," he clarifies.


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    "I heard it correctly. He''s the one who broke up," she insists.


    "Maybe. I''m not sure," he responds. "So, what''s the deal? Have you talked to your brother about it?"


    "No, he won''t tell the truth. If he wanted to, he would have done so already," she explains, pausing. "And he didn''t even mention that they were in the same class."


    "Really?"


    "Yeah," Maahi confirms with a nod.


    "What''s your plan now?" Sam inquires.


    "I hope they can reconcile". Maahi says


    "What?" Sam asks. "Seriously! Do you even know why they broke up?"


    "No, but they can still give it a shot."


    "Maahi, I don''t think it''s a good idea. First, you should find out what your brother thinks. Sometimes what we believe is best for others can actually end up hurting them."


    "I understand, but I''m pretty sure he wants to talk. I saw their photo in my brother''s cupboard."


    "What?"


    "Yeah... I was curious, so I snooped around my brother''s room when he was out. I found their photo hidden. If my brother truly despised Tevin, he wouldn''t have kept it."


    Sam suddenly had a thought. "Maahi," he says, "Yesterday Tevin asked me about your brother. Just so you know."


    "Wait, seriously? And you''re telling me now?"


    "Yeah, I forgot. He was asking about your brother''s activities and schedule. When I asked if he knew him, he said something like ''didn''t you hear what Rehaan said, we''re not acquainted''."


    "It''s all so complicated."


    "Exactly, let them figure it out on their own."


    "So, you''re not going to help me?"


    "It''s not that. I just have a bad feeling about this."


    "Sam, if you help me, then I''ll consider our situation."


    "What do you think about us?"


    "How about we give dating a try?"


    Sam leans in closer. "Wait, are you being serious?"


    "Hmm, I feel bad about what happened and I''d like to get to know you better. Are you open to talking?"


    "Then let''s reconcile Tevin and your brother."


    "You agreed so quickly," she says with a smile.


    "Hmm...maybe," Sam smiles and asks, "Now, how do you propose we bring them together?"


    Maahi grinned as she picked up her phone and dialed Tevin''s number.


    Rehaan was in his room, studying, when his phone rang. Seeing that it was Maahi calling, he answered.


    "Hey, are you home?"


    Yes, I am. Why do you ask?


    "Can you meet me at the ''Lake view'' park near the cafe we visited yesterday?"


    Why? Is everything okay?


    "Nothing''s wrong, I just need to talk to you about something important. Can you come?"


    Sure, I''ll be there soon. Just wait for me.


    Rehaan ended the call, while Maahi on the other end couldn''t contain her mischievous grin of success.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 27 - The Wound Inside Rehaan

    Amusement Park


    Rehaan arrives at the location, sporting a pink t-shirt. His disheveled hair suggests that he was in a hurry to get here. Upon entering the park, he quickly grabs his phone and dials Maahi''s number. She picks up the call.


    "Maahi, where are you? I''m here," he informs her.


    Can you come to seat number 5, brother? Maahi asks.


    "Seat number 5, got it," he replies and makes his way towards the designated spot.


    Seat 5 happens to be near a small aquarium. Rehaan takes a seat on the bench and starts observing the fish swimming around.


    Lost in his thoughts, he suddenly hears someone calling out, "Excuse me?"


    Turning around, Rehaan is surprised to see Tevin standing behind him. His eyes widen in disbelief. He never expected to run into Tevin here. Tevin is dressed in a purple hoodie, blue skinny jeans, a black mask, and a black cap.


    Tevin takes off his mask and grins. "You caught me quickly," he remarks as he sits down. "No one has ever recognized me in this disguise as fast as you did."


    Rehaan stays quiet, creating some distance between them. Tevin gazes at him. "How have you been, Rehaan?" he inquires.


    "Fine," Rehaan replies without meeting his eyes.


    Meanwhile, Maahi and Sam are hiding behind a tree, observing the scene. An uncomfortable silence hangs in the air, the tension palpable. Tevin wants to break the ice but doesn''t want to upset Rehaan. He looks up at the sky and lets out a sigh. Rehaan notices and decides to speak up.


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    "Why did you come here?" Rehaan questions.


    Tevin locks eyes with him. "I... I came for Sam," he admits.


    Rehaan nods.


    "Then why are you here?" asked Rehaan


    "I came for Maahi," Rehaan responds, trying to call her. However, Maahi doesn''t pick up. He tries again, growing more anxious. Tevin sees this and takes the phone, dialing Sam''s number. But Sam doesn''t answer either.


    Rehaan stands up and starts to walk away. Tevin grabs him from behind.


    "Where are you going Rehaan" Tevin inquires


    "I can''t reach Maahi. I''m getting anxious," Rehaan replies.


    Tevin grins. "Relax, don''t worry. Take a seat. I have something to tell you," he reassures.


    "Tevin, I know you may not care, but I do. My sister''s safety is my priority right now. I need to find her, so please give me some space," Rehaan insists, pulling away.


    Tevin tightens his grip on Rehaan''s hands. "I understand your concern, but what if they planned this to bring us together?"


    "What?" Rehaan questions. "What are you trying to say?"


    "I mean, Sam called me here, claiming he needed help and was sitting in seat 5. But it was you," Tevin explains. "Didn''t Maahi mention something similar to you?"


    "No, she specifically instructed me to come over here and wait for her in this very spot."


    "Absolutely, I believe their intention was to foster a friendship between us. It seems like they had it all planned out."


    "No chance, I never mentioned to Maahi that I was acquainted with you."


    "I understand, but on the day we initially crossed paths at the cafe, your behavior was quite impolite, and I''m certain Maahi picked up on it. Isn''t that glaringly obvious, Rehaan?"


    "Why is it that whenever I''m in your company, I always end up getting hurt?" Rehaan expresses.


    Tevin was taken aback by Rehaan''s words, unsure of how to respond. "I understand, but you''ve never made an effort to understand me either, Rehaan," he finally says, trying to defend himself.


    Rehaan''s anger only intensifies. "Hold on...now you''re accusing me, Tevin. Have you forgotten all the things you''ve done to me?" he retorts, his voice filled with frustration.


    "Rehaan, please listen to me," Tevin pleads, moving closer in an attempt to calm him down.


    In a fit of rage, Rehaan grabs Tevin''s shoulder. "What is there to listen to, Tevin? Just get the hell out of my life. I don''t want to see you anymore. I hate you, you scumbag!" he shouts, his anger boiling over.


    Tevin remains silent, not interrupting or saying anything. He simply stands there, absorbing the rage emanating from Rehaan.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 28 - Maahis Wish

    Maahi and Sam intervened to prevent the altercation between Rehaan and Tevin. Maahi restrained Rehaan while Sam positioned himself next to Tevin.


    "Let''s not fight, let''s talk it out," Maahi urged.


    Rehaan turned to Maahi. "Maahi," he called out. "Did you and Sam conspire against us?"


    "I''m sorry, brother. I knew about the situation between you two. I just want to help reconcile things," she explained.


    "Who informed you about our issues?" Rehaan inquired.


    "I overheard your conversation with mother yesterday," she clarified.


    "Maahi, I never scolded you, but that doesn''t mean you can interfere whenever you want," Rehaan expressed uncomfortably.


    "I apologize, brother. But could you both please consider talking to each other for my sake?"


    He glances at Tevin and reassures Maahi, "It''s not going to happen." He then takes Maahi''s hand firmly. "Time to head back," he said with frustration evident in his voice.


    Maahi found herself in a tricky situation. She didn''t want any bad blood between them. So, she gently removed his hands and walked over to Sam, intertwining their fingers.


    "Brother, we''re in a relationship," she declared confidently, even though it was a complete lie.


    "What?!" Rehaan, Tevin, and Sam exclaimed in unison. Sam was taken aback by Maahi''s sudden move and was caught off guard by her lie.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.Maahi signaled for Sam to play along, while Rehaan looked utterly confused.


    "Isn''t that right, Sam? Confirm it," she demanded, shooting him a fierce look.


    "Uh... yes," Sam stammered. "Yes, we decided to start dating."


    "When? You just met yesterday. Don''t try to fool us," Rehaan interjected.


    "Brother, do you really think I would do something like that? Absolutely not," Maahi defended herself."Wait...then what about tricking us to come here?". Tevin asks.


    "Haha, it''s because," Sam says, pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts. He stumbles over his words, trying to explain the situation. "You see, Tevin, you''re my friend and I''m dating Maahi. We just don''t want things to be awkward between you two, that''s all," he finally manages to say.


    Maahi approaches Rehaan, holding his hands and pleading with him. "Brother, please trust me," she says earnestly.


    Tevin smiles and glances at Sam. Leaning in closer, he whispers in Sam''s ear, "Sam, I know you two aren''t really dating, but you''re just trying to make us believe it." Sam looks at Tevin and starts to play it cool. "Don''t worry, I won''t expose you," he says with a smile, patting Tevin on the shoulder.


    "Thanks, buddy," Sam says gratefully.


    "Guys, my brother is okay with it. Now Sam and I will go buy something to eat. You two just stay here and don''t fight, alright?" Maahi adds.


    Rehaan nods. "Don''t take too long. Come back quickly," he says.


    Sam and Maahi head off to buy food, while Rehaan looks at Tevin suspiciously. Tevin avoids making eye contact.


    "They do make a cute couple, don''t they?" Tevin remarks without looking at Rehaan.


    "Tevin, don''t try to act smart. I know Maahi is lying," Rehaan says.


    Tevin looks at Rehaan, a bit surprised. "How did you figure it out?"


    Rehaan chuckles. "It''s pretty obvious that my sister doesn''t want us to fight. She''s your biggest fan. She can''t stand it when someone dislikes her idol. And I know you''ve figured that out too. Besides, my sister isn''t the best at lying."


    "Alright, so what''s the game plan?" Tevin inquires.


    "I just want to make Maahi feel better. I''ll go along with her scheme."


    "Playing nice with me?"


    "Only when we''re around my sister. Otherwise, steer clear of me."


    "Got it, Rehaan. Your wish is my command," Tevin replies with a smile.


    That day marked the reunion of Rehaan and Tevin after a while. Although their get-together was primarily to make Maahi happy...


    To be continued...

 Chapter 29 - Tevins Happiness

    Sam and Tevin at their current house


    Sam and Tevin share a house together. Tevin bought the house and they decided to live together. They have a bond like real brothers.


    "Hey Tevin, I need to apologize for lying to you," Sam admits.


    "It''s alright. But why did you go along with it? Did something happen?" Tevin asks.


    "Well, she said she would consider being with us if we both made up with her brother," Sam explains.


    "Oh really? That''s great," Tevin responds, pausing for a moment. "Anyway, thanks for making the effort."


    "Please don''t mention this deal to Rehaan," Sam requests.


    "He already..." Tevin pauses, walking over to sit on the sofa. "Okay, I won''t. I''ll make good use of the time." Tevin wanted to tell the truth, but he was afraid of disappointing Sam and losing the chance to meet Rehaan.


    Sam nods and sits down next to Tevin.


    "Tevin, why did you two break up?" Sam asks.


    "We... it''s a long story. But just remember, I was being a jerk at that time," Tevin admits, getting up.


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    "I''m going to freshen up. We have practice this evening," Tevin informs.


    "Aren''t you tired? We had a long day, Tevin," Sam questions.


    "I am tired, but if I rest, I''m scared I''ll fail. I don''t want to, and you know why," Tevin replies.


    "Hmm, don''t push yourself too hard. Remember what happened to you," Sam warns.


    Tevin nods. "I know, my friend. I''ll go now." Tevin says as he rushes to the bathroom. He undresses and turns on the shower for a hot bath. Water drips from his body.


    "Rehaan, I won''t let you slip away this time. I don''t want to lose you too," Tevin whispers, rubbing his face. "I couldn''t say it today, but I''ve missed you so much."


    Tevin closes the tap and dries his body with a towel. He changes into a black leather jacket, a white t-shirt, and black biker jeans. He leaves his hair to air dry and exits the dressing room. He grabs his bike gloves and puts them on. He then turns and takes his guitar before walking out of the room.


    Sam was busy working on his computer when he suddenly paused upon hearing Tevin''s footsteps.


    "Tevin, did you dry your hair?" Sam asked.


    "Haha, I forgot," Tevin replied, rubbing his hair and causing water droplets to fall.


    "Make sure to dry it before you leave, Tevin. Otherwise, you might catch a cold," Sam advised.


    "I won''t. Don''t you know who I am? I''m the rock star Tevin," Tevin confidently declared.


    "I know, but you should also remember that you''re still human," Sam warned.


    "Hmm, but I''m so... so happy today, Sam. Nothing can harm me," Tevin said with a smile.


    "Are you happy because of Rehaan?" Sam inquired.


    Tevin didn''t answer and simply walked away, saying, "I''ll go then. Bye!" He waved, still wearing a smile.


    "Hmm, take care," Sam replied, waving back.


    Tevin opened the main door and disappeared. Sam smiled to himself, thinking, "It''s the first time I''ve seen you smile like that, Tevin. And I know the reason. I promise to keep that smile on your face. I was being a jerk, using you for winning Mahi. But now, I''ll do something for you, Tevin." He picked up his phone and left a message for Maahi...


    To be continued...

 Chapter 30 - Double Date

    Tevin rode his bike, his jacket billowing in the wind. Thoughts of Rehaan consumed his mind.


    ''I became a singer for you, Rehaan. I wanted to show you that I can take control of my life. I hope you''ll see me succeed, always watching over me. I know I may seem selfish, but my intentions are pure,'' he muttered to himself as he sped along.


    Arriving at the studio, he parked his bike and walked in. His bandmates - Dhruv, Daksh, and Aarav - were already there. Dhruv played the piano, Daksh was on drums, and Aarav played guitar alongside Tevin.


    As soon as he walks in, they start practicing. Tevin''s hand starts to ache after an hour.


    Aarav notices and suggests, "Hey, why don''t we take a 15-minute break?"


    "I agree," Dhruv says.


    "Sure, sounds good," Tevin replies and takes a seat. He''s been coughing, and the others notice.


    "Are you okay, Tevin?" Daksh asks.


    "Yeah, I''m fine," Tevin responds with a warm smile.


    Suddenly, Tevin''s phone buzzes. He takes it out of his pocket, unlocks it, and opens the chat. It''s a message from Sam. He reads it...


    Hey Tevin, just a reminder that you have a date with Maahi and her brother tomorrow at 10 am. Don''t let it slip your mind


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    Tevin grinned. His spirits were lifted after reading Sam''s message "Ready to begin?". Tevin inquired,


    "Hold on, you seemed exhausted just now, Tevin." Aarav remarked,


    "I''m all good now. I''ve recharged my batteries."


    Daksh questioned, "You seem suspicious. Any good news, buddy?"


    Tevin glanced at his friends and replied, "You want to know? It''s a secret." He smirked.


    "Oh...now he''s keeping secrets from us," Dhruv teased. T


    evin suggested, "Shall we start practicing now?"


    "Sure thing, boss," Aarav agreed.


    "Guys, if anything good happens, I''ll keep you all informed. But for now, I don''t want to get my hopes up," Tevin shared.


    His teammates nodded and returned to their rehearsal.


    Next Day


    Sam and Tevin arrive at the beach as planned. Sam dials Maahi''s number on his phone.


    "Maahi, we''re here. Where are you guys?" Sam asks.


    "Just come straight ahead. I can see you guys. Look over here. I''m waving my hand. I''m wearing a red dress," she replies.


    "Red dress?" he says, scanning the area until he spots her. "Ha, I found you. I''m coming over." He ends the call.


    They walk towards Maahi and her friends.


    "Tevin," Sam calls out.


    "Yeah?" Tevin responds.


    "Look over there, you and Rehaan are wearing matching colors."


    "Really?" Tevin says, glancing over. "We really do think alike."


    "Hey, spill the beans. Did you guys plan this?" Sam teases.


    "He doesn''t care about me. All he wants is to make Maahi happy. He treats me with such indifference. I long to go back to my college days and become a better person".


    "Hey past is past. Now you are a better person. Don''t dwell on the past too much. Just move on from that".


    I understand that the past is in the past," Tevin acknowledges, glancing at Sam. "But only the person who was hurt can truly comprehend the pain caused by that past event. I accept this sadness, knowing the extent of sorrow I caused. All I wish for is Rehaan to communicate with me like before. That''s all. Despite wanting more, I realize I am not entitled to it."


    To be continued...

 Chapter 31-Feelings Inside

    Tevin and Sam stroll near Maahi and Rehaan. When Rehaan notices Tevin''s outfit, he gives it a quick glance.


    "Tevin, you''re wearing the same dress as my brother. Did you guys plan this?" she inquires.


    Rehaan looks at her and takes her hand. "Did you tell them, Maahi?" he questions.


    "No way! It''s just a coincidence," she clarifies.


    "I was also surprised by the outfit. But it''s nice to see," Sam chimes in.


    "Shall we go then?" Maahi asks Sam.


    Sam nods, stands up from the seat, and walks with her, waving to Rehaan.


    Tevin gazes at Rehaan.


    Tevin inquires, "Are you interested in going somewhere?"


    Rehaan responds, "No, I''ll stay here. If you want, you can join Maahi."


    Tevin joins Rehaan with a warm smile on his face.


    "I also prefer staying here."


    Rehaan questions, "How much longer are you going to keep up this act?"


    "I suppose... until you grow tired of it," Tevin smirks.


    "What do you mean?"


    "You''re the one who initiated the act, Rehaan. Remember, you asked me to please your sister. So, you can end it whenever you want."


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    Rehaan chuckles, "Am I really allowed to do that?" he asks.


    "Uhh!" Tevin exclaims.


    "No, I thought. Only you have the power to bring everything to an end. On your own terms," Rehaan said firmly.


    "Rehaan, please stop," Tevin pleaded.


    "What should I stop? I haven''t even begun," Rehaan replied defiantly.


    "The conversation is going down a path we''ve been through before. Can we please just sit here peacefully? I don''t want to fight with you," he implored.


    "Tevin, I don''t understand why, but being calm around you seems impossible," Rehaan confessed.


    "I know I''ve made mistakes in the past, but I''m genuinely trying to be a better person now. I''m putting in a lot of effort to make you happy, Rehaan," he explained.


    "Really? Because I haven''t seen any evidence of that. Am I blind or something? All I see is a person with malicious intentions," Rehaan retorted.


    "Rehaan, If being around me makes you this uncomfortable, then I''ll leave now," he said, standing up and walking away.


    Rehaan was disappointed by Tevin''s lack of effort to convince him. He felt let down ''Tevin, you still didn''t try to convince me anything. You just tried to justify you. You didn''t change at all''. Wiping away his tears, Rehaan was left feeling disheartened. Despite his initial distress, he eventually gathered himself and decided to confront Tevin.


    Rehaan couldn''t find Tevin anywhere. He looked around until he spotted Tevin sitting at a table, resting his head on his hands. Tevin appeared exhausted. Rehaan hesitated for a moment before approaching Tevin and placing a comforting hand on his back.


    "Tevin? Maahi will be searching for us," Rehaan says, catching Tevin''s attention.


    Tevin, who appeared exhausted, raises his head to look at Rehaan.


    Concerned, Rehaan moves closer and asks, "What''s wrong, Tevin? Are you okay?"


    Tevin nods weakly, attempting to stand up but his leg gives out. Rehaan sits down beside him and gently touches Tevin''s face, noticing his excessive panting.


    "You''re burning up, Tevin. You have a fever."


    Tevin shakes his head and avoids eye contact.


    Worried, Rehaan places his hand on Tevin''s forehead. "You definitely have a fever. Why did you come here if you''re not feeling well?"


    Tevin looks at Rehaan but remains silent. The intensity of his gaze answers Rehaan''s question.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 32 - Care

    "Let''s head to the hospital," Rehaan suggests.


    "No, I''m...Fine Rehaan," Tevin replies.


    "Hmm, I can see that," Rehaan acknowledges as he calls a cab and accompanies Tevin to the nearby hospital.


    During the journey, Rehaan sends a text to Maahi.


    Maahi, Tevin isn''t feeling well. We''re heading to the hospital first, he informs her.


    Tevin rests his head on Rehaan''s shoulder.


    Don''t worry. You guys enjoy yourselves. I''ll take care of him, Rehaan assures Maahi, while gently patting Tevin''s hair.


    Finally, they arrive at the hospital.


    Tevin lay in the hospital bed with a glucose drip in his left hand. Rehaan sat on a chair beside him, keeping a watchful eye. The nurse came in, adjusted the drip, checked Tevin''s temperature, and handed Rehaan a prescription. "You can buy this medicine from the pharmacy," she said, glancing at Tevin and then at Rehaan.


    The nurse mentioned that he needs to drink more water and eat healthy food because he is very weak. Rehaan assures her that he will take care of him.


    "And give us a ring when the drip is almost done," she says before heading out.


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    Rehaan approaches Tevin and softly caresses his hair. Afterward, he removes his hands and steps outside to purchase medicine.


    Pharmacy


    Rehaan stood in line, waiting patiently. Suddenly, his phone rang and it was Maahi calling. He answered the call with a cheerful "Hello Maahi".


    "How''s Tevin, brother?" she inquired, putting her phone on speaker so Sam could also hear the conversation.


    "He''s doing okay. We''re at the hospital now. Are you on your way?" Rehaan asked.


    Maahi glanced at Sam, who shook his head indicating they couldn''t come. "No, brother. We can''t make it right now. Can you take care of Tevin?"


    Rehaan handed over the prescription at the counter and received the medicine.


    "Alright, I''ll drop him off at his place," Rehaan assured.


    "Do you know where he lives, brother?" Sam questioned.


    "Of course, I do," Rehaan replied. Then he remembered Tevin''s father. "But Sam, I won''t be able to take him home. Can you call his father to come here instead?"


    "No need, he doesn''t live there anymore," Sam informed.


    Rehaan was shocked when he asked, "What does it mean that he doesn''t live there anymore?"


    "Didn''t Tevin mention that he and his father are not on good terms? It''s been two years," Sam explained.


    Rehaan was speechless, processing the information. He wanted to ask for more details but held back.


    "Could you drop him off at the address I''ll send you?" Sam requested.


    "Sure, just send me the address," Rehaan replied.


    After a brief conversation, they ended the call. Rehaan approached Tevin with the medicine.


    ''What does it mean that he and his father are on bad terms?'' Rehaan pondered.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 33 - The Truth Behind The Text

    ¡°What should we do next?¡± Maahi wonders


    "I''m not sure. I think it''s a good time for Rehaan and Tevin to reconcile." Sam suggests


    "You''re right. Hopefully they can work things out." Maahi agrees


    ¡°Me too¡±. Sam nods


    Maahi''s phone rings. She answers and sees it''s her uncle


    "Why did you call, Uncle?" She asks politely


    Maahi, can you come to the station now? We''ve caught the culprit. He informs


    "Really, Uncle? We''ll be there right away." She says, hangs up, and turns to Sam


    "Uncle called. The stalker has been caught. Will you come with me to the police station?" She asks


    "Of course." He replies


    "Should we tell your brother, Maahi?" He inquires


    "I''ll inform him later. Let him focus on Tevin for now."


    Sam nodded and they both arrived at the station. She asked for permission and entered her uncle''s room.


    "Uncle," she called out as she walked closer to him.


    "Maahi," he replied, scanning the room. "Where is Rehaan?"


    "I haven''t told him yet. I''ll inform him later. So, I came with Sam today."


    "Alright, Maahi, come with me. Sam, you come too. They are in the other room," he instructed, leading them to another room.


    She entered and saw a girl''s face. "Krishna," Maahi called out.


    Krishna looked at Maahi and then at Sam.


    Maahi approached her. "Krishna, why are you here?" she asked, glancing at her uncle. "Uncle, what''s going on?"


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "Maahi, Krishna is the mastermind behind all of this," Uncle revealed.


    "What?!" Maahi exclaimed in disbelief. "No way."


    "Listen, Maahi. Krishna hacked your phone and sent messages to Sam, as well as many other boys. And her friend Akshay helped her with all of it," Uncle explained.


    Maahi turned to Krishna with teary eyes and asked, "Krishna, is this true?"


    Krishna responded defiantly, "What if I did? So what?"


    Maahi was shocked to witness this side of her best friend. She felt completely drained. Sam noticed her distress and comforted her by holding her hand.


    "Why did you do this, Krishna? We were good friends," Maahi questioned.


    "What friends?" Krishna retorted, giving Maahi a piercing stare. "You were never my friend. I never saw you as one," she shouted.


    Maahi couldn''t comprehend what she was hearing. "What are you saying?"


    "I hated you, Maahi. You took the man that I loved," Krishna confessed.


    "What the hell are you talking about?" Maahi exclaimed, utterly bewildered.


    Krishna was furious, "You have no idea. I''m not talking about Kiran, our senior who you complained about, who made you angry. I loved him deeply. But he was head over heels in love with you, even though you complained about him. When I confessed my feelings to him, he confessed his love for you. You, Maahi, who never even came close to my beauty. How dare you? I''ve always been pretty, but I couldn''t get Kiran to love me. And you, with your innocent face, making people fall for you. I despised it, I wanted everyone to hate you. I did everything to make sure everyone would hate you, Maahi."


    "Why Krishna, just for one man. You did this," Maahi asks.


    "Yeah, I picked several guys from our college and sent them seductive messages, making it seem like you were a nymphomaniac. That''s why our seniors started hating you. Didn¡¯t you ever wonder why seniors suddenly started hating you. I wanted them to hate you. Even Kiran, he despised you. He thought you were a girl with no morals," Krishna admits.


    "You were the one behind all of this. How could you?" Maahi cries, feeling betrayed.


    "Maahi, Krishna and her friend hacked your phone and sent messages to many boys, mostly flirtatious ones. One of them was Sam. Her plan was to gather everyone in one place and make you look like a person with no character. But you ruined her plan by sending a message to Sam beforehand," Uncle explains.


    Krishna laughs. "And I''m glad that so many people hate you now," Krishna says, laughing hysterically.


    "You did all of this without knowing that I liked Maahi. And I knew that she wouldn''t send messages like that. That''s why I wanted to meet Maahi. But when I met her, I realized she was a victim," Sam interrupts Krishna and reveals.


    Krishna didn''t expect that from Sam. "You loved her."


    "I love her. And I promise I will make sure everyone knows your true face, Krishna," Sam declares, wrapping his arms around Maahi and holding her tightly. "Uncle, I''m leaving with Maahi. She doesn''t look okay. And as for Krishna, she should pay for her wrongdoings. It doesn''t matter if she''s a girl, she did something wrong and she should be punished," he says. Uncle nods in agreement. Sam nods back and walks out of the room with Maahi.


    To be continued¡­

 Chapter 34 - Love Or Hate?

    Rehaan and Tevin hop into a cab and head over to Tevin''s fancy villa on Street 7, house 13.


    Tevin seems to be in a daze, barely conscious. Rehaan helps him off his shoulder and they make their way inside through the gate. As they approach the front door, Rehaan realize it''s locked with a password.


    "Password?" he muttered to himself. "But Sam never mentioned it." Rehaan scratches his head, wondering what the password could be.


    He glanced at Tevin and inquired, "Tevin, what''s the password?"


    Tevin mumbled, but Rehaan couldn''t make out what he said. Tevin leaned in close to Rehaan''s ear.


    "It''s your birthday. 14072000," he whispered.


    Rehaan''s eyes widened as he looked at Tevin. "My birthday?"


    He then turned to enter the password. A beep sounded, and the door swung open.


    "He used my birthday as his password? But why?" Rehaan pondered as he followed Tevin inside.


    "Tevin, where''s your room?" Rehaan asked.


    "Um... It''s upstairs," Tevin replied, pointing upwards. "It''s the room with the white door."


    "What?" Rehaan questioned.


    Rehaan asks Tevin, "Hey, where''s your room?"


    Tevin points upstairs and replies, "Oh, it''s upstairs. The one with the white door."


    Confused, Rehaan asks, "What do you mean?"


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Tevin stammers, "Well, there''s only one room with a white door, and it''s mine."


    Shaking his head, Rehaan carries Tevin up the stairs.


    "You know, it''s a flush door," Tevin slurs, sounding like a drunk person. "It has a very flat surface for ornamentation."


    "What the hell are you saying. it''s annoying me". Rehaan says with a smile


    "I...I just wanted to let you know. Can''t I?" Tevin says and starts to giggle uncontrollably.


    "What''s so funny?" Rehaan asks, trying to suppress his own laughter.


    "I can''t believe I''m getting a piggyback ride from you," Tevin manages to say between giggles "You''re like my personal chauffeur!" Tevin says


    "Shut up or I''ll put you down," Rehaan warns.


    Tevin remained silent and tightened his grip on him. Rehaan grinned. Rehaan smiles and continues walking until he finally spots the white door. He gently lowers Tevin to the ground and opens the door, revealing a neatly organized room.


    They steps into Tevin''s room. Rehaan gently lays him on the bed and covers him with a cozy blanket. Taking a moment to observe the surroundings, Rehaan notices that the room is adorned with numerous solo photos of Tevin, some featuring Sam, and a large one showcasing his band. A guitar sits on one side, accompanied by a group photo of the band. Walking towards the table, Rehaan carefully places the medicine down. On the table, he spots a photo frame displaying a picture of him and Tevin from their college days.


    Rehaan picks up the photo, remarking, "He still keeps this," as he glances over at Tevin.


    Returning the photo to its place, he approaches Tevin and sits on the bed, gently placing his hand on Tevin''s cheek and softly rubbing it. Tevin turns his face towards Rehaan''s touch.


    "Tevin, you''re still that spoiled rich kid," Rehaan says with a smile. But suddenly, his smile fades away. "Wait, why am I smiling?" he wonders aloud, removing his hands from his face.


    Tevin grabs Rehaan''s hand, causing him to look at him.


    Tevin opens his eyes and stares at Rehaan intently. "Were you trying to take advantage of me?" Tevin asks, his voice filled with suspicion.


    "What advantage?" Rehaan tries to pull his hands away, but Tevin holds on even tighter.


    "You know exactly what I''m talking about. That day at the beach," Tevin says, his tone serious.


    Rehaan is shocked by Tevin''s words. "What the hell...are you saying?" he stammers, unable to comprehend.


    "Don''t you remember?" Tevin asks, his voice tinged with frustration.


    Rehaan remains silent, attempting to get up. However, Tevin pulls him closer.


    "Then I''ll make you remember," Tevin declares, snatching Rehaan''s face and kissing his lips. Rehaan stands there in shock, unable to react.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 35 - The Conflict

    Rehaan froze for a moment, his face turning red as he tried to process what had just happened. Tevin''s lips were still lingering on his when he finally pushed him away, wiping his mouth in anger. He stood up abruptly.


    "What the hell do you think you''re doing?" Rehaan demanded, his hand still touching his lips.


    "Rehaan, please, let me explain," Tevin pleaded as he also got up.


    "Explain? What''s there to explain?" Rehaan questioned, his voice filled with hurt.


    "It was a mistake, a moment of weakness. I didn''t mean to hurt you," Tevin tried to clarify.


    "You didn''t mean it? Really, Tevin?" Rehaan''s eyes welled up with tears. "Why are you doing this to me?" He asked, his voice breaking.


    ¡°Rehaan, I apologize for the pain I caused you. I...¡± He approaches Rehaan and gently grasps his hands. "I find it difficult to find the right words to console others, you know that about me."


    "If you struggle with comforting, then just leave me alone." Rehaan retorts, forcefully pushing Tevin''s hands away and heading towards the door.


    "Rehaan, I... I love you," Tevin confesses, his voice barely above a whisper as he lowers his head.


    "What!" Rehaan stops in his tracks, turning to face Tevin. "What did you just say?"


    Tevin steps closer to Rehaan, taking hold of his hand and pulling him closer. "I understand it may be hard to believe, but please trust me. I truly do love you." Rehaan is taken aback, his gaze fixed on Tevin.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "You love me?" Rehaan tugs at Tevin''s hand. "If you truly loved me, you wouldn''t have hurt me like that before."


    "I am sorry, but my love for you is genuine, Rehaan."


    Tevin, you''ve fallen in love with me. Should I be thrilled now? Answer me," he says.


    "Rehaan, I understand that you don''t have faith in me. But can you please consider giving me a second chance? I am willing to go to great lengths for you," Tevin pleads.


    Rehaan gazes at Tevin. "Truly, anything you''re willing to do?"


    "Hmm...anything. I give you my word," Tevin assures.


    "In that case, just leave me be. I no longer wish to be near you. I cannot bear the thought of being hurt again," Rehaan declares as he exits the room and slams the door behind him.


    Rehaan descended the stairs and entered the hall. Maahi and Sam were seated on the sofa, awaiting their arrival. Rehaan approached Maahi.


    "Maahi, it''s time to head home," he stated.


    Maahi remained silent. She noticed Tevin approaching Rehaan.


    "Let''s leave, Maahi," he repeated.


    "What''s wrong, brother?" she inquired.


    "I ALREADY TOLD YOU TO LEAVE," Rehaan yelled.


    Tevin came closer to Rehaan. "Rehaan, please don''t go. Allow me to explain."


    "Wait, brother," Maahi uttered, halting Rehaan in his tracks. "I apologize," she confessed.


    Rehaan pivoted, his gaze fixated on Maahi. "Why are you saying sorry?" he inquired.


    "Brother, it''s not Tevin''s fault. It''s mine. I was the one who desired for you two to reconcile," she admitted, her eyes locked with Rehaan''s. "I know you were a couple, and you..."


    "What did you just say?" he interjected, cutting her off. "Tevin and I were a couple? Did Tevin tell you this?"


    "No, I overheard your conversation with mother the first time we met Tevin. And I stumbled upon an old photograph of the two of you. So, it was quite evident that you were indeed a couple," she explained.


    "Maahi, please stop," Rehaan pleaded. "I thought you wanted me to befriend him because he was your idol. But I never imagined that you both had planned something like this," he expressed, his gaze shifting towards Tevin. "We are not lovers."


    "But the way you both..." Maahi began.


    "Maahi, I already told you we were never a thing," he interrupted, turning towards her and grasping her hand. "Maahi, let''s just leave."


    "Rehaan, please, I need to talk..." Tevin interjected, gripping his hands.


    "Tevin, just let me go," Rehaan declared, turning around and delivering a forceful smack to Tevin''s face. Tevin staggered backward, his cheek stinging from the impact. The pain mirrored the ache in his heart as he desperately tried to hold back tears.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 36 : Hating You Because I am Scared

    Tevin had never witnessed Rehaan in such a state of intense anger before. It was a first for Rehaan to lash out and strike Tevin. As Tevin gingerly touched his cheek, he gazed at Rehaan. Rehaan, in turn, quickly realized the gravity of his actions.


    "What have you done, brother?" Maahi inquired. Sam, taken aback, approached Tevin and embraced him.


    Tevin wept silently, locking eyes with Rehaan, who seemed to be on the verge of apologizing profusely, yet remained speechless. Rehaan had not meant to resort to violence, but it had happened nonetheless.


    "I should go now," Rehaan announced before exiting the house.


    Maahi turned to Tevin. "I apologize for that," she expressed before following Rehaan.


    "Tevin, are you okay?" Sam checked in.


    "Yes, I am," Tevin replied.


    Rehaan, still in disbelief, hurriedly made his way to the waiting cab outside and left for home with Maahi.


    [Home]


    Rehaan and Maahi entered the house, and a storm brewed within her. As they stepped into the hall, Maahi reached out and grasped his hands.


    "Brother, we need to talk," she said firmly.


    "Maahi, let''s discuss this later," he replied, attempting to evade the conversation.


    "You know, I have always held you in high regard, but what you did today was beyond comprehension," she expressed, her voice filled with anger. "Why did you have to slap him so forcefully?"


    "I admit, I made a mistake. It was unintentional," he confessed, remorse evident in his words.


    "Why, brother? Why did you do this? The brother I have known all these years was not like this. I did it because I wanted your happiness. That''s why I..." she trailed off, her voice filled with confusion and concern.


    "Did I ask for your opinion?" he interrupted sharply. "Maahi, being with him would hurt me the most. You don''t understand anything."


    "Then tell me, brother. You have always confided in me, so why can''t you share this with me?" she pleaded, gripping his hand tightly. "I can see the pain in your eyes, but I don''t know its source. Let it out... Tell me," she urged, her voice filled with empathy.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.Tears streamed down Rehaan''s face as he embraced Maahi, seeking solace in her comforting presence. He finally mustered the courage to reveal the hidden truth about Tevin and himself, a story he had kept concealed from her until now. Maahi listened intently, her anger simmering as she learned of the betrayal.


    "That Tevin...he did that to you back in college?" she inquired, her voice laced with disbelief.


    Rehaan simply nodded in response.


    "You''re too kind, Rehaan. If it were me, I would have done much worse than just a slap," she admitted, her protective instincts kicking in.


    Rehaan managed a small smile, grateful for her unwavering support. "Maahi, please don''t tell mother about today," he pleaded.


    "Of course, brother. You have my word," she assured him, her tone filled with regret. "I''m sorry, brother. I misunderstood your relationship with Tevin."


    "It''s alright. You acted out of concern for me," Rehaan reassured her, his eyes reflecting gratitude.


    "Good. I promise I won''t let you face Tevin again," Maahi vowed, her determination shining through.


    "Maahi," Rehaan called out to her.


    "Yes?"


    "I realize now that I was wrong. I should have listened to Tevin''s side of the story, as mother suggested. But I couldn''t control my anger when he kissed me unexpectedly," Rehaan confessed, his words hanging in the air.


    "What! He kissed you?" Maahi exclaimed, rising from the bed in shock. "Brother, what happened next?"


    "I just left the room. But there''s still something unclear," Rehaan replied.


    "That scumbag! I need to see him," Maahi said angrily.


    "Maahi, that''s a bad word. Let''s not use it," Rehaan cautioned.


    "Bad words are for bad people," Maahi insisted.


    Rehaan smiled, "Not everyone wishes us well."


    "I completely understand, brother. Betrayal by friends is the worst," Maahi sympathized.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 37 : The Bond Of Rehaan and Maahi

    Rehaan inquires, "Why did you phrase it that way?"


    Maahi responds, "Uncle phoned this afternoon and I accompanied Sam to the police station."


    "Why didn''t you inform me?"


    "I apologize, brother. I thought it would be nice for you both to spend time together at that moment."


    "Hmm. It''s alright. So, what happened next?"


    "Brother," she calls out, grasping his hands, "I never imagined seeing her there."


    "Who?"


    "Krishna," Maahi replied, her eyes welling up with tears as she mentioned the name.


    "Which Krishna?" Rehaan probed further.


    "My closest friend," Maahi responded.


    "The one who visits our house?" Rehaan clarified.


    "Yes," Maahi confirmed.


    "Tell me all the details about what she did," Rehaan requested.


    Maahi spills all the details at the police station, leaving Rehaan in disbelief. He couldn''t fathom what he had just heard and it made him angry. "I can''t believe it. She seemed so innocent, who would have thought she had such evil thoughts in her mind?"


    "Same here, brother. I loved her so much and considered her my best friend. But she..." Maahi trails off, unable to finish her sentence.


    "She doesn''t deserve a loyal friend like you," he says, shaking his head.


    "When she first told me she never saw me as a friend, I thought..." Maahi starts, her voice trailing off.


    "Maahi, never think like that. You know what? She''s the one who''s at fault here. It''s alright to feel sad or angry for not realizing her true intentions, but don''t blame yourself for anything," Rehaan assures her.


    Maahi nods in agreement and gives him a hug. "You''re right, brother."


    Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation."Ugh." Rehaan lets out a loud sigh. "Life can be so unpredictable, like a movie," he says.


    "Yeah, unexpected things are happening," Maahi adds.


    "Doesn''t matter. We have each other, no matter what," Rehaan says with a smile.


    "We have each other," Maahi replies, smiling back. "Brother, lend me your shoulder."


    "Sure," he says, sitting up straight. Maahi rests her head on Rehaan''s shoulder.


    "I feel so much better now."


    "That''s good to hear, my mischievous sister," Rehaan says.


    "Yeah. Brother, what are you going to do about Tevin?"


    "I''ll just ignore him, maybe for a long time."


    "That''s good, but do you think Tevin will do the same?"


    "I don''t know. But based on his personality, he won''t easily give up," Rehaan said.


    "Should I give him a beating then, brother?" Maahi confidently asks.


    "Maahi..." Rehaan calls her, unable to believe what his little sister just said.


    "Aww, I''m just kidding," Maahi reassures him.


    "Alright, I''ll go and prepare for my exam," Rehaan says as he stands up.


    "Take some rest. There''s plenty of time, brother," Maahi advises.


    "I know, but I''ve wasted many days without studying. I want to focus on my dream," Rehaan says with a smile.


    "Alright then, I''m going out for a ride to clear my mind."


    "Do you want company?"


    "No, brother, I want to go alone. But if I feel lonely, I''ll call you, don''t worry."


    "Hmm. Have a safe trip," he says.


    "Alright, bye," Maahi says and walks outside.


    I''m sorry, brother, for lying. I''m not going to relax. I''m going to see Tevin, she says herself as she takes her scooter and drives away.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 38 : Maahi To Save Rehaan

    Maahi reaches Tevin''s house. Sam opens the door for her and she enters. Maahi stops Sam when he wants to speak to her. She walks inside the hall and sees Tevin was laying on the couch.


    "Ho...you are really resting after doing the shitty things to my brother". She says and walks near him. Tevin opens his eyes and looks at her.


    "Maahi...why are you here". He says and looks behind her.


    "My brother is not here, don''t look for him". She says in belligerent tone


    Tevin gets up and sits on couch. "Is he alright Maahi?" He asks and gets up.


    "You still have the guts to ask that". She says and took a deep breath and continues "I didn''t notice it before but ever since he met you again, he loses his focus on the study. He loses his smile. You know what. I never thought that someone who I admire so much is really bad person". She says


    Sam gets angry "Maahi, let me tell you one thing". Sam said


    "Sam, don''t interrupt her...Let her speak". He says


    "Oh, thank you. But even if you don''t allow. I will still speak. You know one thing Mr Tevin for these past years he knows I am your fan but he never told me anything about his past. The thing that he did wrong was lov...". She pauses and walks near him. "Forget it...Listen to me carefully. Dont you ever come near to my brother again. I wont let you ruin his happiness anymore. But you know what, you dont deserve a friend like my brother". She said.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation."Of course who wants a friend like him. I don''t want".  He shouts loud and bite his lip. He was suppressing his emotions


    Maahi gets furious. "You still have the guts to say that". She says


    Tevin had reached the limit of his endurance. He cried out Infront of them. Maahi looks at him confused. "You are right Maahi. I don''t deserve his friendship. I don''t know why but I am always like this. I was searching for attention in my entire life. I wanted that from a girlfriend. Because my father, he always told me that he became happy when my mother came in his life". he pause and seated.  I also wanted to find that happiness. But without knowing Rehaan came into my life and became my source of happiness. He loved me like no else did. He was there for me. You know Maahi he is my everything. He trusted me the most and told me his secrets. But I was too afraid to confess that I loved a man in college and it''s Rehaan". He says and wipes his tears.


    Maahi walks near him and asks. "What are you saying".


    To be Continued...

 Chapter 39 : Not Every Family Is Once Comfort Zone

    "Maahi, you have no idea, Rehaan has no idea either. That day, I completely bombed my final exam. My dad was beyond furious with me. He even had the audacity to say that I don''t deserve parents like them. He actually hit me. I didn''t mean any harm when I told my parents that I helped Rehaan pass. I just wanted my dad to acknowledge that I did well. But I never expected him to explode like that and forget that I''m his own son. He couldn''t control himself and started hitting me with whatever he could find in the room. He pushed me and I ended up falling on the table, hurting my back. My mom didn''t even try to stop him. She just looked at me with shame in her eyes. All I needed that day was some comfort from my parents, but instead, they despised me for letting them down."


    Tevin says, touching his heart. "It still hurts here, Maahi. I was trapped in the cage of my parents'' expectations." He says.


    Maahi sits beside him and gently holds his hand. "Tevin...brother." She calls out.


    Tevin paused for a moment, his eyes filled with a mixture of pain and regret. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "Maahi, you cannot imagine the anguish I felt when he uttered those words. He blamed Rehaan for my failure and vowed to prevent him from achieving success. I was taken aback, fear gripping my heart as his words echoed in my ears. I knew that if my father ever laid eyes on Rehaan, even though he had done nothing wrong, he would carry an immense burden of guilt on my behalf. That''s why I said what I did to him that day. I wanted him to despise me, so that he wouldn''t have to bear the weight of any wrongdoing. Even if he heard something from my father, he would believe that I was the one who influenced him to say those hurtful things."


    Tevin paused again, his voice trembling slightly as he continued. "But Maahi, I never anticipated that on that very day, Rehaan would confess his feelings for me. Can you imagine the whirlwind of emotions I experienced? It felt as though I had finally arrived at a place where true happiness awaited me. However, I couldn''t bring myself to reveal my own heartfelt emotions to him. I believed that he deserved someone far better than the flawed individual I saw myself as¡ªa scumbag, unworthy of his love."


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.As Tevin finished speaking, Maahi couldn''t help but feel a surge of curiosity. "Wait, so all those actions in the past were driven by your father''s influence...you have no idea how deeply my brother cares for you," she asked, her voice filled with concern.


    "I am aware of his love for me, his past love for me, but I couldn''t reciprocate. Ever since I discovered Rehaan''s feelings towards me, I made a conscious effort to avoid them. I even confided in my classmates about my secret, the one that only Rehaan knew, because I was afraid of developing feelings for a man. I was terrified of my parents. However, everything crumbled because of me".


    "Wait, my brother mentioned that you went abroad. What happened with that?" Maahi inquires.


    "Hmm... I did go, and it was the last time my parents laid eyes on me. However, I didn''t go to Ireland to pursue studies; instead, I stayed with my uncle for a few months. My father couldn''t bear to see me, so they sent me away. Initially, I felt isolated, but one day, I crossed paths with Sam. Eventually, he became a close friend of mine," he explains, glancing at Sam. "A true friend," Tevin adds, pausing. Sam smiles and nods in agreement.


    Tevin continued, "Then one day I left my uncle''s home without anyone knowing and returned to India with Sam. I started a new life by joining a band. Everything that followed felt like a dream to me. But one thing I knew for sure was that Rehaan was the reason I wanted to become brave. I longed to hold the person who loved me, the one I loved the most. The only memory I desired was with Rehaan. However, I lacked the courage to face him. So, I worked tirelessly to ensure he noticed me everywhere, watching him from a distance without his knowledge. I even went to the library where he studied and followed him wherever he went. I believed that if I could win the grand fest award one day, I could finally confront him and confess that he was the reason behind my success. But I was too self-absorbed to consider his feelings." Tevin bent down and wept.


    Maahi remained silent.


    "I love him, Maahi. I love him so much," he said.


    To be continued

 Chapter 40 : The Disclose Of Truth

    When Maahi returned home, she recounted all that had happened in the past to Rehaan. After listening to her story, he was left speechless and silently retreated to his room. Sensing that he needed time to process, Maahi refrained from following him. Rehaan shut the door behind him, leaning against it as he sank to the floor. Tears streamed down his face.


    "Tevin..." he whispered, shutting his eyes. "It was my fault. I failed to see the pain in your eyes." Standing up, he made his way to the drawer, pulling out a photo and gently caressing Tevin''s image. "Why didn''t I stay to comfort you when you needed me the most?" he murmured to himself, embracing the photo tightly as he wept uncontrollably.


    [Next day]


    Rehaan sat in the hall, feeling distracted and lacking the courage to face Tevin. Concerned by his behavior, his parents approached him and he opened up about everything that had been happening. His mother gently held his right hand, offering words of wisdom, "Rehaan, I always told you that there is a reason for everything."


    "Mother, why...I couldn''t see it before," Rehaan replied.


    "It''s never too late, son. Your happiness is still within reach. Seize it and hold onto it tightly," she reassured him, cupping his face. "I don''t want to lose a son-in-law who is a star."


    Rehaan chuckled, "Mother, you''re teasing me." He glanced at his father, "See, Pa, she''s making jokes even now." Wiping away his tears.


    His father smiled and took his other hand, "Rehaan, I understand that Tevin has wronged you in the past. But it was because he lacked guidance on what''s right and wrong...Now, as your mother said, you have the power to bring him the happiness he deserves. And he can give you the love you''ve always yearned for," he explained.


    "Shall I call him, Father?" Rehaan inquired.


    "No, my son, engage in a face-to-face conversation. Not every emotion can be comprehended through a phone call," his father advised.


    Rehaan smiled. "I shall go and meet him now, Father," he declared.


    "That''s our courageous son," both of his parents exclaimed.


    "Oh, you two are so open-minded," Maahi chimed in. "Will you react the same way when I fall in love?"


    Mother smiled warmly. "Certainly, my dear. Both of you have the right to choose the one you love," she affirmed, gently patting Maahi''s head. Maahi smiled and nodded in agreement.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.Maahi received a call from Sam. "Speaking of the devil," she muttered, answering the call.


    "Hello, Sam," she greeted, glancing at Rehaan. Rehaan looked at her, curious to know about Tevin.


    Maahi, Tevin has been involved in an accident. He is currently at the hospital,  Sam informed her.


    "What! When did this happen?" Her voice turned serious. Rehaan looked at Maahi, awaiting an answer.


    We are at the SQT hospital, Sam replied.


    "Alright, we will come right away," she responded before ending the call.


    She turned to face Rehaan.


    "Brother, Tevin has been in an accident," she informed him.


    Rehaan stood up in shock.


    "Mother...is this because of me?" Rehaan asked, his voice filled with guilt.


    "Do not dwell on such thoughts, my dear. And do not worry, son, everything will be alright," his mother reassured him, holding his hands.


    "Rehaan, go and see him now," his father instructed.


    Maahi and Rehaan dashed to the room, swiftly changing their attire before hurrying to the hospital. In the midst of their haste, Sam sent Maahi a text message disclosing the room number - 301, located on the third floor. Without wasting a moment, they stepped into the elevator, ascending to the designated floor. As they made their way towards the room, they noticed Sam standing outside, accompanied by Druv, Daksh, and Aarav, all seated on chairs.


    Approaching Sam, both of them drew closer. Sam rose from his seat, acknowledging their presence. "You guys have arrived," he exclaimed.


    Curiosity brimming within him, Rehaan inquired, "What happened to Tevin?"


    Sam responded, "Fortunately, nothing too severe. He had an accident while riding his bike, colliding with a tree, rendering him unconscious. Thankfully, there were no major injuries, but his left leg suffered a fracture. He needs rest. And he..."


    Interrupting Sam, Rehaan interjected, "May I see him now?"


    Sam paused for a moment, contemplating, before replying, "Hmm, yes. However, he is currently asleep inside the room. Would you prefer to wait until he wakes up, so you can have a conversation?"


    Determined to catch a glimpse of his friend, Rehaan asserted, "I simply wish to see him now. I won''t disturb his slumber."


    Nodding in understanding, Sam agreed. Maahi, understanding the need for privacy, waited outside while Rehaan ventured into the room alone.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 41 : The Second Chance?

    Tevin lay peacefully in slumber, unaware of the world around him. Rehaan, with utmost care, closed the door behind him and approached Tevin''s side. Silently, he pulled out a chair and settled himself next to Tevin. Gently, Rehaan ran his fingers through Tevin''s hair and caressed his cheeks, where he slapped.


    "I apologize for striking you, Tevin. And I am sorry for not heeding your words," Rehaan whispered remorsefully. "There are so many things I wish to discuss with you once you awaken. I will patiently await your return."


    Tevin''s eyes welled up with tears as he gazed at Rehaan. Slowly, he opened his eyes and met Rehaan''s gaze.


    "Tevin, you''re awake. Did I disturb your sleep?" Rehaan inquired.


    "No, I couldn''t sleep, to be honest. I merely pretended so as not to burden my friends," Tevin replied, a smile gracing his lips.


    Tevin and Rehaan locked eyes, a silent understanding passing between them. "Rehaan..." Tevin called out softly. Rehaan nodded in response. "I heard your words just now. I...I am deeply sorry. I was..."


    Rehaan placed a hand over Tevin''s mouth, silencing him. "There is no need for words, Maahi has already informed me. Let us leave the past behind us. From this moment forward, we shall embrace the present...together, in happiness," he declared. Tevin smiled and clasped Rehaan''s hand in his own.


    Rehaan inquired about Tevin''s leg, "Are you in pain?"


    "I''m fine. Despite the accident, it was worth it because you came to visit me. I''m happy," Tevin replied with a smile.


    Rehaan playfully hit Tevin''s hands, "You''re making light of the situation, you fool."


    "Ouch...that hurts, Rehaan," Tevin winced as he held his hands.


    "I''m sorry...are you okay? Should I call the doctor?" Rehaan asked as he stood up.


    Tevin grinned, "Just kidding. Only my leg is bothering me. Everything else is perfectly fine."


    "Don''t joke around, Tevin," Rehaan warned.


    "I''m just glad to have someone who cares about me," Tevin said, tears welling up in his eyes.


    "Oh, really?" Rehaan sat down and wiped Tevin''s tears.


    "Yes," Tevin smiled. "Wait, Rehaan, why are we talking like lovers?" he asked.


    "What do you mean, lovers?" Rehaan asked, taken aback.


    "Are you shy Rehaan. But just now our talk was just like couples". He says


    "I don''t understand what you are talking about".


    Rehaan''s shyness was evident as he averted his gaze. "I''m not sure what you mean," he replied softly.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement."Is that so?" Tevin inched closer. "Ouch." He winced as he moved, feeling a sharp pain in his forehead.


    Concerned, Rehaan examined Tevin''s injury. "Please don''t joke around, I''m genuinely worried. You have a wound on your forehead," he said.


    "It''s just a minor cut, no need to fret. I won''t joke anymore, I promise," Tevin assured him.


    "Alright then, I''ll take my leave," Rehaan stated.


    Tevin held onto Rehaan''s hand. "Where are you off to?" he inquired.


    "I''ll be waiting outside. You should rest for a while," Rehaan replied.


    "Please don''t leave," Tevin pleaded.


    "Tevin, your body needs rest. Get some sleep, my friend," Rehaan said, gently patting his hand.


    Then, Tevin pleaded with a desperate look in his eyes, "Please, just stay here with me. I can''t bear to sleep alone."


    Rehaan, with a gentle smile, responded, "Tevin, you''re not a child anymore."


    Tevin''s lower lip jutted out in a pout. "My old Rehaan would never say something like that," he muttered.


    Rehaan''s smile widened as he took a seat. "Alright, I''ll stay," he agreed.


    "Promise?" Tevin asked, seeking reassurance.


    Rehaan pondered for a moment before replying, "Hmm...because I miss that old Rehaan too." He reached out, holding Tevin''s right hand and affectionately patting his head. "Now, go to sleep. I''m right here with you."


    Tevin nodded, his eyelids growing heavy as he slowly closed his eyes.


    As Tevin drifted off to sleep, Rehaan''s thoughts wandered. There were so many things I wanted to talk to you about, our past and everything. But now, it doesn''t seem to matter. All that truly matters is that we want to face the future together, he silently confessed, gazing at Tevin with a tender smile. I promise, Tevin, I won''t ever leave you again- With that, he rested his head on the pillow, still holding Tevin''s hand, and peacefully fell asleep.


    After some time, Tevin''s eyes fluttered open, and he found Rehaan sleeping soundly beside him. He glanced at their intertwined hands and, feeling a surge of warmth, leaned closer to Rehaan before drifting back into slumber.


    Meanwhile, Maahi opened the door and caught sight of the two of them together. Filled with joy, she hurriedly informed Sam, who called his friends over to witness the heartwarming scene. They all shared in the happiness before closing the door and leaving the couple in peace.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 42 : New Begining

    [After three days]


    They arrived at their house, accompanied by Tevin. Rehaan and Sam gently held onto Tevin, ensuring his stability. Meanwhile, Maahi tenderly clutched Tevin''s forearm crutches in her hands, displaying her care and concern. Duksh, Druv, and Aarav dutifully carried Tevin''s belongings, shouldering the responsibility with utmost diligence. Finally, they settled Tevin onto the comfortable couch.


    "It''s hurting," Tevin expressed, wincing as he took his seat.


    "The doctor explicitly advised you to stay in the hospital for at least a week. You didn''t heed their advice, so don''t complain now," Rehaan scolded, his tone laced with frustration.


    "I simply dislike the hospital atmosphere. I find solace in the comfort of home," Tevin replied, defending his decision.


    "Well, that doesn''t give you the right to disregard everyone''s advice. You''re still a patient," Rehaan retorted, his anger palpable.


    "Don''t be upset, Rehaan. I''m alive, I didn''t perish," Tevin tried to pacify, his voice filled with remorse.


    "Tevin, I''ve already warned you about speaking in such a manner," Rehaan responded, his anger still lingering.


    "I apologize sincerely," Tevin uttered, his voice tinged with regret.


    "Hmm," Rehaan muttered, averting his gaze.


    "Rehaan, please don''t be angry. I truly am sorry," Tevin pleaded, his face adorned with a pout.


    Rehaan couldn''t help but smile upon witnessing Tevin''s expression. "If you genuinely regret your actions, then don''t repeat them. Do you understand?" he questioned, his tone softer.


    "Hmm...yes, sir," Tevin replied, giving a thumbs-up sign.


    Rehaan''s smile widened as he gently patted Tevin''s head. "Good boy," he said softly. When he heard his sisters laughing, he turned around to see Maahi standing there. Tevin''s friends and Maahi were all watching them, smiling. Feeling a bit embarrassed, Rehaan scratched his head nervously.


    "Don''t mind us, brother. Continue your sweet moment," Maahi said with a teasing smile.


    "Yes, Rehaan, carry on. Just pretend we''re not even here," Aarav chimed in.


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author."What sweet moment?" Rehaan stammered, looking away. "I''ll go make something for Tevin. He needs to take his medicine." With that, he headed towards the kitchen, avoiding eye contact with anyone. Tevin watched him go, a small smile playing on his lips.


    After dinner, Tevin was carried to his room, and Rehaan sat by his side on the bed. The others left the room, leaving the two of them alone. Tevin''s gaze lingered on his guitar.


    "What''s wrong, Tevin?" Rehaan asked, peering at the instrument.


    "Nothing, I just...I can''t perform on stage for a while. My bandmates postponed our show because they''re worried about me, but I still feel uneasy," Tevin admitted, rolling his eyes.


    "It''s just for a month, Tevin. You''ll be back to normal soon. And who said you can''t perform on stage? Sure, you can''t jump around like a monkey, but you can still practice if you want. Just don''t stress too much," Rehaan reassured him.


    "Wait...did you just call me a monkey, Rehaan?" Tevin asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "Well, maybe I should call you a dog then," Rehaan teased, a playful smile on his face.


    Tevin winces, placing his hand over his heart. "Ouch, Rehaan. That really hurts."


    Rehaan chuckles. "Oh, come on. Is it really that painful?"


    Tevin pouts, "I feel so alone, no one to take care of me."


    Rehaan teases, "Well, maybe it''s a good opportunity for you to learn self-care."


    Tevin frowns, "You''re so mean. I''m already feeling unwell, and your words are making it worse."


    Rehaan raises an eyebrow, "My words are hurting you?"


    Tevin looks away, "I''m feeling moody."


    Rehaan grins, "Oh, really?"


    He reaches for Tevin''s hand, "Look at me, Tevin."


    Tevin hesitates, "Are you going to make fun of me again?"


    Rehaan shakes his head, "You''re something else." Leaning in, he plants a kiss on Tevin''s chest, leaving him stunned.


    "Rehaan, you just..." Tevin stammers, blushing.


    Rehaan leans back, gazing at Tevin. "I hope that kiss healed your heartache. It''s the best medicine I can offer."


    Tevin smiles, "My heart feels better now, but my hands, legs, and..." He trails off, looking at Rehaan. Rehaan''s smile hints at mischief. "Now, all my other body parts are aching. Can you apply that golden medicine there too?"


    To be continued

 Chapter 43 : Will You Be My Boyfriend?

    Rehaan chuckled, "Flirting with me now, are you?"


    Tevin shook his head, "Flirting and me? No, I''m not that kind of person. I don''t even have a heart."


    Rehaan placed his hand on Tevin''s shoulder, calling his name softly.


    Tevin responded with a slight nod, "Hmm."


    "Thank you for coming back into my life," Rehaan said with a smile.


    Tevin laughed and cried, "You''re good with words too."


    "Really?"


    Tevin nodded, leaning on Rehaan''s shoulder.


    "I learned from the best," Rehaan teased.


    Tevin grinned, "You do have a way with words."


    "And don''t forget to be kind to your friends," Rehaan reminded him.


    Tevin looked puzzled, "Why bring that up now?"


    "I have to head home," Rehaan said, "My duty here is done."


    "Rehaan... I implore you to be my caretaker until I am fully healed," Tevin pleaded.


    "Why must it be me? You have Sam and your group members," Tevin questioned.


    "Oh, but they cannot replace you," Tevin retorted.


    "Why am I to be your servant?" Rehaan inquired.


    "No, my dear, you are mine," Tevin stated with a smile.


    "When did I become yours?" Rehaan asked, puzzled.


    "Rehaan, don''t you love me?" Tevin questioned.


    "Love? When did I ever say such a thing?" Rehaan responded.


    "At the hospital, you promised not to leave me alone, and just now you kissed me on my chest," Tevin reminded him.


    "That, my dear Tevin, it was merely an attempt to uplift your spirits. Nothing more, nothing less, You are my friend" Rehaan uttered with a gentle smile. Tevin''s eyes fixated on Rehaan, a mixture of disbelief and uncertainty clouding his expression.


    "Rehaan, please don''t toy with me now. I cannot bear it," Tevin pleaded, his voice tinged with a hint of desperation. Rehaan''s smile widened, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes.


    "Ah, but you see, my dear Tevin, you bestowed upon me an unexpected kiss that day. Shouldn''t I tease you a little for such audacity?" Rehaan playfully retorted. Tevin''s brows furrowed as he tried to comprehend the situation.


    "Wait, you were joking, right?" Tevin questioned, his voice laced with uncertainty. Rehaan chuckled softly, his amusement evident.


    "Of course, my dear. Do you truly believe I would randomly bestow a kiss upon someone without reason?" Rehaan inquired, his tone filled with playful sarcasm. Tevin let out a sigh of relief, his anxiety dissipating.


    "You truly frightened me, Rehaan," Tevin admitted, his voice laden with a mixture of relief and exasperation. Rehaan''s expression softened, his gaze filled with understanding.


    "And perhaps, my dear Tevin, you deserved a taste of that fear," Rehaan stated, his voice tinged with a hint of reproach. "In the past, you never revealed your true feelings to me."


    "I apologize for that," Tevin responded, his voice sincere as he paused to gaze at Rehaan intently. "Rehaan, what exactly are we?"


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere."Hmm... What indeed are we?" Rehaan mused, his tone contemplative. Tevin''s eyes narrowed, his seriousness evident.


    "Rehaan, I am being serious," Tevin asserted, his gaze unwavering as he locked eyes with Rehaan.


    "And yet, my dear Tevin, you still remain oblivious to what we truly are," Rehaan replied, a playful smile tugging at his lips. Tevin couldn''t help but smile in return, a mixture of anticipation and hope filling his heart.


    "Rehaan, will you be my boyfriend?" Tevin asked, his words flowing forth with a sense of urgency. Rehaan''s reaction was immediate, his surprise evident.


    "Wow, that was quick". Rehaan remarks.


    "I don''t want to waste any more time".


    "Well then, say something nice. Like a proper proposal". Rehaan suggests.


    "Rehaan, you''re quite hard to impress".


    "Is that so?" Rehaan leans in closer. "I''ve waited years for this moment, Tevin. And you just brushed it off. I felt nothing". He admits.


    Tevin''s face lit up with a smile as he gently shook his head. "Alright then," he said, his voice filled with a mix of emotions. He reached out and took hold of Rehaan''s hand, his touch warm and comforting. "Rehaan," Tevin called out, pausing for a moment before continuing. "I want you to know that I realize now how much of a coward I was in the past. I never gave you the space you needed, and I hurt you deeply. Without you, my life felt like a withered flower, unable to bloom or thrive. I spent countless days crying, regretting the terrible things I did to you. I was afraid of what my parents would think."


    Tevin''s tears began to flow, and Rehaan gently wiped them away, his touch filled with tenderness. "But now, Rehaan, all those hurdles are gone. I''ve broken free from them. I want to make up for the lost time, to bring happiness back into your life. I was scared to fall in love with another man, but fate had other plans. I fell in love with a boy who loves me unconditionally, who only wants to see me happy. And now, it''s my turn to take on that role. From this moment forward, let me take care of you. Can I?"


    Tevin''s voice trembled with emotion as he spoke, his eyes filled with tears. "Rehaan, will you be my boyfriend?" he asked, his heart pounding in his chest.


    Rehaan''s tears mirrored Tevin''s as he held his face gently. "Hmm," he managed to say, his voice choked with emotion.


    Tevin pulled Rehaan into a tight embrace, holding him as if he never wanted to let go. "Thank you, for giving me a chance," he whispered, his voice filled with gratitude and love.


    "I''m not just giving you a chance, Tevin," Rehaan replied, his voice filled with determination. "I''m giving myself a chance too. And I promise you, I will do everything in my power to make you the happiest person in this world."


    To be continued

 Chapter 44 : Tevin open up to Rehaan

    Rehaan''s mind wandered back to a distant memory, and he couldn''t help but bring it up to Tevin. "Tevin, did you mention that I attempted to take advantage of you during our time at the beach?" Rehaan asked, his voice filled with curiosity.


    Rehaan''s question caught Tevin off guard, but he couldn''t help but smile. Memories of their college days flooded his mind, and he couldn''t help but reminisce about that fateful night they went out for drinks. Tevin''s eyes sparkled as he began to recount the events.


    Tevin chuckles, "I thought you won''t ask me-He grins mischievously, "You remember that night at college when we decided to try drinking for the first time?" Tevin asked, his voice filled with nostalgia. I passed out and you attempted to steal a kiss from me. Quite bold, I must say."


    Rehaan''s curiosity piqued as he questioned, "But how did you know? Weren''t you asleep?"


    Tevin''s smile widened as he explained, "Oh, Rehaan, I was merely resting my eyes. I could sense your presence drawing closer, and when your lips touched mine, I couldn''t move. I didn''t want to wake up because I wanted to understand your intentions. Deep down, a part of me secretly yearned for that kiss "


    Tevin''s heartfelt words touched Rehaan, and he blushed, averting his gaze shyly. "Oh, Tevin..." he murmured softly.


    Unable to resist teasing him, Tevin playfully asked, "Are you feeling embarrassed, Rehaan?"


    Rehaan quickly denied it, his gaze fixed on the ground. "No, why would I be?" he replied, his voice filled with a mix of emotions.


    Rehaan, your face is all red, are you that shy?" Tevin observed. However, he quickly added, "Then I won''t say what happened after that."


    Curiosity got the better of Rehaan, and he insisted on knowing the details. "No, I want to know. Tell me," he urged Tevin.


    "But you said we won''t discuss about the past?" Tevin asks.


    "Ha that''s right, then don''t tell," Rehaan says remembering his own words before.


    Tevin, feeling a mix of apprehension and vulnerability, decided to open up about his true feelings.


    "I was taken aback when you attempted to kiss me," Rehaan confessed. "That''s why I wanted you to pick me up the next day. When I returned to my room, I found myself searching about being gay and all. I was scared to acknowledge those feelings within myself, but I also yearned to know your true emotions. I was afraid of my parents'' reaction, but I also longed to understand your genuine sentiments. That''s why I lied and told you that I liked another girl. But the truth is, I didn''t have any feelings for her. I just wanted to gauge your reaction. However, you acted completely normal, which infuriated me. So, I decided to propose to another girl and became her lover. The rest, as you know" Rehaan revealed, pouring his heart out to Tevin.


    "Wait...seriously?" Rehaan asks, raising an eyebrow in disbelief.


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it."Hmm. And the day you said you love someone. I wanted it to be me. But you didn''t say anything. So, I went to our classmate and told them about my family issues," Tevin explains.


    "Wait, stop. Are you serious, Tevin? Because of that, I thought I wasn''t your special one," Rehaan says, a hint of disappointment in his voice as he smiles.


    "What about it?" Tevin asks, curious to know Rehaan''s thoughts.


    "Well, there was a little reunion and I found out from our classmates that they know about your family matters. It made me really upset, and I started to think that maybe I wasn''t your special one," Rehaan clarifies.


    "I''m sorry for doing that, but I was scared of losing you and I was so jealous. It''s true that I didn''t want to admit that I had feelings for a man. You know how my parents always tell me to find a girlfriend, so I was conflicted," Tevin confesses, pausing for a moment.


    "Hmm, I understand. So, you didn''t go home after that?" Rehaan asks, concerned.


    "No, why should I? It feels like they don''t love me," Tevin replies sadly.


    "Tevin, I think you should talk to them. Maybe they will understand if you explain how you feel," Rehaan suggests, offering support.


    Their son is well-known, but they refuse to accept me. And if I were to confess my love for a boy, they would create more problems. It''s better to remain in this situation. I don''t want to experience heartache again. I don''t want to hurt you again. I feel like I don''t have a family anymore," Tevin expresses with disappointment.


    "Who said that? I am your family," Rehaan asserts, gently cupping Tevin''s face with his hands. "No matter what happens, I will always love you and be by your side forever. I, Rehaan, promise to my one and only boyfriend, Tevin the rockstar."


    Tevin smiles and tightly holds both of Rehaan''s hands. "Thank you."


    Rehaan and Tevin exchange a nod before locking eyes. Tevin glances at Rehaan''s lips, prompting a smile from Rehaan as he leans in for a kiss. Tevin reciprocates, but just as their lips are about to meet, Sam walks in.


    "Tevin," Sam calls out.


    Startled, Rehaan and Tevin quickly move away from each other. Sam catches on and looks away, apologizing for the interruption.


    "Can''t you knock before coming in?" Tevin questions.


    "Oh man, I forgot you were busy with your guy," Sam admits.


    "Then why did you barge in?" Tevin asks.


    "I just wanted to know what you guys wanted for lunch," Sam explains.


    "Anything works," Tevin replies.


    Alright, I''m heading out now. You guys keep going. See ya! Sam says as he closes the door and vanishes.


    Tevin glances at Rehaan. He seems embarrassed, but they both share a smile.


    "Should we pick up where we left off?" Tevin suggests.


    "Nope, I''m going to go assist Sam," he replies before walking out. Tevin smiles and gazes at Rehaan without looking away.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 45 : Permission To Hold The Hand

    After one month


    Rehaan and Tevin embarked on a journey to visit Rehaan''s parents at his residence. Rehaan was casually dressed, while Tevin concealed his identity with a black mask. Tevin tenderly clasped Rehaan''s hand, causing Rehaan to burst into uncontrollable laughter out of sheer joy. Although everything seemed familiar, there was a subtle shift in dynamics.


    This time, my closest friend Tevin is not just a friend, but also my boyfriend, Rehaan reflected as they strolled down the lengthy streets, eventually arriving at Rehaan''s home.


    Rehaan rang the doorbell, and Tevin''s nerves got the best of him, his hands trembling with anxiety. "Don''t fret too much. Everything will be fine," Rehaan reassured him, giving Tevin''s hand a comforting squeeze.


    Tevin smiled in response, his apprehension gradually dissipating. When Rehaan''s mother greeted them at the door with a warm smile, Tevin''s anxiety peaked. Sensing Tevin''s unease, Rehaan held his hand tightly as they entered the house. Tevin eagerly awaited the opportunity to converse with Rehaan''s family, particularly his mother, but he found himself at a loss for words.


    Tevin felt a wave of embarrassment wash over him as he greeted Rehaan''s parents. His hands trembled slightly, betraying his nervousness.


    "Hello, Tevin, how are you, dear?" Rehaan''s mother asked, noticing his shaky hands.


    "I''m good, Auntie," Tevin replied, wiping the sweat from his brow. "And how are you doing?"


    "We''re doing well, thank you. We''re so happy to have you here," she said with a warm smile. "How''s your leg?"


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere."It''s all healed now, Auntie. Thank you for taking care of me when I needed it," Tevin said, glancing at Rehaan. Mother nodded in approval Well, where is uncle and Maahi? He asks


    "They are in the kitchen, cleaning up. Your mother is taking a break today."


    As if on cue, Rehaan''s father appeared in the hallway. "Did someone mention my name?" he asked with a smile.


    Tevin quickly stood up and greeted him respectfully. "Hello, uncle," he said, straightening up. Rehaan observed the interaction, looking as if he was witnessing a formal meeting.


    Rehaan''s father beams with a smile. "Don''t be so shy. Just relax, Tevin," he advises. Maahi follows suit, and they all take a seat.


    "I apologize, uncle. Its been quite a while since we last met. I''m feeling a bit anxious," Tevin admits.


    "I understand. I''m glad you are still alive," Father jokes.


    Dad Rehaan interjects, shooting his father a disapproving look. He couldn''t believe what he had just heard.


    "Oh my son, I was only kidding. Don''t give me that deadly glare," Father reassures. He then turns to Tevin. "You see, Tevin, I was just trying to tease you, but Rehaan here is standing up for you," he explains.


    Tevin''s face lights up with joy as he glances at Rehaan, who blushes and looks away.


    "Shall we have lunch then? Its already 2:00," Rehaan suggests.


    "Alright, lets change the subject," Mother chimes in.


    "Mom..." Rehaan starts to say.


    "I know, I know. By the way, I made Tevin''s favorite fish curry today", she announces, turning to Tevin, whose eyes sparkle with delight.


    "Okay, lets eat first, and then we can discuss something", Father tells Tevin.


    The mood suddenly shifts. Tevin''s heart pounds loudly in his chest that Rehaan could hear it. Rehaan does his best to conceal his embarrassment. After lunch, there is a meeting in the living room to determine whether Tevin will be accepted as a potential son-in-law.


    To be continued

 Chapter 46 : Getting Blessings From Parents

    Rehaan''s father settled himself roughly in the seat, with Tevin seated across from him. Rehaan was positioned nearby, as he was not allowed to sit close to Tevin.


    "How is your band doing, Tevin?"


    "Its going well, uncle. We have a performance scheduled for this week," Tevin replied politely.


    "Then why are you here? Shouldn''t you be practicing?"


    "No, its alright. We decided to take a break today".


    "It''s been years since you left," his fathers tone turned serious.


    "Yes, uncle," Tevin responded.


    "Tevin, why have you returned now? It has been a long time since you left my son," his father inquired.


    "Hmm," Tevin hesitated, glancing at Rehaan. "I know it was my fault. Actually, what happened was..."


    "I know," his father interrupted. "Rehaan has already told us everything. We don''t wish to dwell on the past. However, this concerns our son. So, if something were to happen in the future, would you repeat the same actions you did in the past?"


    Tevin shook his head. "No, uncle. I realize I caused him a lot of pain. It was because I was immature back then. I admit I was scared, but now I understand what true happiness is. I know you have trouble trusting me after everything that happened. Please give me a chance, this time I won''t disappoint you both. I promise," he says.


    "Alright, what''s your plan then?" Father inquires.


    "Rehaan has already agreed to be my partner. But now I seek your blessing, uncle and auntie," he looks at his mother and asks, "Can I date Rehaan?"


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work."What if we say no?" Father questions.


    "I''ll be disappointed, but I''ll work on convincing you one day," Tevin replies.


    "That sounds like a warning," Father remarks.


    "No, uncle, I was just..." Tevin starts to explain.


    "Tevin," Mother interrupts, sitting beside him. "He is just joking. If we didn''t approve, we wouldn''t have invited you here. We just want to see both of you happy always."


    "I promise to take care of him, aunty. I won''t let him slip away again," Tevin assures. Mother nods and smiles.


    "Then uncle, are you..." Tevin begins to ask him something.


    However, his father swiftly interrupts him, saying, "Tevin, you may date my son. You are aware of how much I admire you. However, as parents, we naturally worry about our child''s well-being. I simply want my son to be happy, and I don''t want to witness his suffering. So, please take good care of him, Tevin." The father concludes his statement and eagerly awaits Tevin''s response.


    With a warm smile, Tevin approaches Rehaan and positions himself on his right side, gently grasping his hand. "Uncle, I promise I will never let go of this hand. You have my word," Tevin assures.


    "If you ever decide to leave, you''ll have to deal with me," the father playfully adds, bursting into laughter.


    Tevin and Rehaan exchange glances, their smiles mirroring one another''s.


    This is truly the happiest day of my life, Tevin silently reflects, a contented smile gracing his face.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 47 : The Urgue To Wanting More

    (Night)


    Rehaan and Tevin are in Rehaan''s room.


    "It''s been a while since I was last here, hasn''t it?" Tevin inquires.


    "Hmm, you''re right," Rehaan acknowledges with a nod.


    "I don''t know why, but I feel so uneasy now," Tevin admits, tilting his head.


    "Why is that?" Rehaan questions.


    "Because we just made a big reveal in front of your parents, and now I''m not just your boyfriend; we''re lovers, and I''m your sister''s brother-in-law," Tevin explains.


    "Wait, Tevin, slow down," Rehaan requests.


    "Why are you so nervous?" Tevin smiles and teases, "You''re acting like it''s our first night."


    Tevin gazes at Rehaan and tilts his head. Rehaan''s smile fades when he notices Tevin''s intense gaze.


    "Why are you staring at me like that?" Rehaan inquires.


    "Me? Not at all. I just remembered something," Tevin responds.


    "What?"


    "We became a couple but didn''t do anything that a couple does" Tevin inched closer to Rehaan, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Shall we give it a try?" he whispered.


    Rehaan hesitated, gently pushing Tevin away. "Hold on, Tevin. We can''t do that right now. My parents are just outside."


    "They won''t even notice," Tevin insisted, trying to reassure Rehaan.


    "But we don''t have any protection," Rehaan pointed out.


    "Why would we need that?" Tevin questioned.


    "Because safety comes first, Tevin," Rehaan replied, shaking his head.


    "Even for a simple kiss."


    "Uhh...Kiss!"


    "Yes, kiss... What were you thinking, Rehaan?" Tevin inquires, his voice filled with curiosity.


    Rehaan scratches his head, a puzzled expression on his face, and shakes his head. "Nothing at all," he replies, averting his gaze.


    "Wait, did you think I was expecting something more?" Tevin asks, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. Rehaan''s eyes widen, and he instinctively covers his mouth with his hands.


    "Lower your voice," Rehaan urges, his voice barely a whisper. He slowly removes his hands from his mouth, unsure of how to respond.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.Tevin''s smile widens, and he affectionately pats Rehaan on the head. Rehaan''s confusion deepens, making it difficult for him to even meet Tevin''s gaze. "Rehaan, I had no idea you were so eager," Tevin teases playfully.


    "Stop it, Tevin. I''m already..." Rehaan trails off, his voice trailing into a shy mumble.


    "Shy?" Tevin interrupts, his smile growing wider as he gently holds Rehaan''s face. "Rehaan, look at me," he insists. Reluctantly, Rehaan turns his face towards Tevin.


    "Hmm," Rehaan murmurs, his mind still racing with thoughts.


    "What ''hmm''? Say something," Tevin urges, his eyes filled with anticipation. Rehaan shakes his head and pouts, unable to find the right words.


    "Whose boyfriend are you? You''re so cute," Tevin remarks, pinching Rehaan''s cheeks affectionately.


    Rehaan''s smile brightens, and he replies, "I''m your boyfriend. You''re so lucky to have such a handsome boyfriend."


    "Of course, my handsome boyfriend," Tevin responds, pulling Rehaan into a warm embrace. Rehaan reciprocates the hug, and for a moment, there is a peaceful silence between them. "Rehaan...can I kiss you?"- Asks Tevin


    Rehaan gazes into Tevin''s eyes, a smile playing on his lips. "Yes," he whispers, leaning in slowly. Their lips meet in a tender kiss, hands finding their way to each other''s faces. The moment is filled with sweetness and longing, as they both close their eyes and savor the connection.


    As they break apart, Tevin''s eyes glisten with tears. Rehaan gently wipes them away, planting soft kisses on his eyelids. Looking into Tevin''s eyes, he confesses, "Tevin...I love you," pulling him into a warm embrace.


    Tevin''s response is filled with emotion, "I love you too, Rehaan," he says, returning the hug. Rehaan pulls him closer, deepening the kiss, and Tevin can''t help but smile, feeling the happiness of being reunited with his love.


    In that moment, Rehaan finds solace in Tevin''s arms, finally breaking free from his sadness. The more they kiss, the more they crave each other''s touch, lost in the bliss of their love.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 48 : The Grand Music Show

    Music Fest 2023


    Tevin and his group were getting ready for the scholarship music festival in India. The winning group would receive a prize money of 25 lakhs and a free travel ticket to a particular country. As they prepared in their room, a make-up artist applied make-up on Tevin''s face while the other members got ready. Tevin anxiously checked his phone, waiting for a call from Rehaan. Sensing his tension, the members exchanged worried glances.


    Druv patted Tevin on the shoulder and reassured him, "My dear friend, don''t worry, he will be here soon." Tevin looked up at Druv, expressing his nervousness about performing in front of Rehaan for the first time. Druv comforted him, "Don''t let the nerves get to you, it will affect the performance. Just relax, bro, you''ve got this."


    Tevin nodded, taking in Druv''s words of encouragement.


    Rehaan walks into the room, capturing everyone''s attention as soon as he opens the door.


    Tevin eagerly greeted Rehaan as he entered the room. "You''re late," Tevin remarked with a smile.


    Rehaan acknowledged, "I know, the traffic was terrible." Tevin playfully patted Rehaan on the head, but Rehaan quickly removed his hands. "Tevin, there are people around," he reminded.


    Tevin leaned in and teased, "Are you feeling shy?"


    Rehaan admitted in a hushed tone, "Yes, I am."


    Tevin advised, "As the boyfriend of a rock star, you should try to overcome that shyness."


    Rehaan responded, "Is that so?" They both chuckled. "So, where''s Maahi?"


    "She''s with Sam. I didn''t want to intrude, so I came here," Rehaan explained.


    Tevin inquired, "Sam hasn''t come to see me yet. Is he too busy with his girlfriend?"


    Rehaan nodded, "Seems like it. They make a cute couple."


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator."Just like us, right?" Tevin asked with a grin.


    Rehaan''s face brightened with a smile as he nodded in agreement. Just then, a member of the staff entered the room, breaking the silence. "Team Youth Dreamers, get ready for the performance," he announced before swiftly exiting the room.


    Tevin, the leader of the group, turned his attention towards his fellow members, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "Are you ready?" he asked, his voice filled with anticipation.


    The members exchanged smiles and began walking towards Tevin. Arav, with a confident grin, replied, "Always ready, man."


    With a determined expression, Dhaksh chimed in, "Then let''s cheer for our group, guys."


    Tevin extended his right hand first, a gesture of unity, and the rest of the members followed suit, forming a circle. "Let''s do it," Tevin declared, his voice brimming with enthusiasm.


    "Let''s go and win the trophy, guys," Tevin exclaimed, his voice filled with determination.


    "Let''s get it," the members responded in unison, their voices echoing with unwavering determination. Rehaan observed the scene before him, his heart swelling with joy.


    "Team Youth Dreamers," they chanted together, their voices harmonizing in perfect unison as they performed their group cheer. And with that, they walked out of the room, ready to conquer the stage.


    Tevin approached Rehaan, eager to speak, but Rehaan cut him off, saying, "Don''t bother, I already know. I''ll be right there in the front row, waiting for Maahi. So make sure you give your best performance."


    Tevin responded confidently, "Of course, do you not recognize who I am?"


    Rehaan retorted, "Why? Have you forgotten who you are?"


    Tevin chuckled, "Oh Rehaan, just go along with it."


    Rehaan relented, "Alright then, sing your heart out. Good luck."


    Tevin assured him, "I will, Rehaan. I''ll win the first prize for you," He looks at his members, "Now, I must be off." Rehaan simply nodded in response.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 49 : Forever With You

    The competition is about to start. The auditorium is filled with a large crowd, all here to cheer on their favorite groups. The first performance is by the group ''Code Love''. The JLN stadium is buzzing with excitement. Rehaan approaches his sister, who is engrossed in a conversation with Sam. As he joins them, Maahi pauses and shifts her attention to Rehaan.


    "Maahi... You can continue talking. Pretend I''m not even here," Rehaan teases, looking away.


    Maahi blushes and lowers her gaze, feeling a bit shy. She then playfully nudges Rehaan''s shoulder. "Brother, you act the same way with Tevin. I never complain," she says with a smile.


    Rehaan opens his mouth to respond, but decides against it. His cheeks flush red, unable to hide his embarrassment.


    "Alright, enough fooling around. Time to head to the hall," Rehaan declared, and Sam and Maahi nodded in agreement. The trio made their way into the hall, strolling towards the first court before coming to a halt.


    The competition was intense, and Tevin and his team were up next for the 5th performance. They were all set backstage, eagerly waiting as the 4th performance commenced. With the conclusion of the 4th performance, the show''s host took the stage to announce the next act.


    "Coming up next is the celebrity group, and here we have the Youth Dreamers" The presenter announces enthusiastically, clapping and welcoming the group.


    The crowd erupts in cheers and shouts the group''s name. Tevin takes the stage with his friends, each taking their positions. Tevin confidently walks up to the microphone stand and plugs in his guitar. Druv positions himself near the piano, Daksh settles onto the drum seat, and Aarav stands to Tevin''s left, holding the rhythm guitar.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.With his microphone in hand, Tevin scans the crowd, searching for Rehaan. Amongst the sea of faces, he finally spots Rehaan, who is proudly holding the red badge Tevin had given him back in their university days. Rehaan raises his hand, displaying the badge for Tevin to see. Their eyes meet, and Tevin can''t help but notice that Rehaan still cherishes the badge after all this time.


    Rehaan''s mouth opens and he utters, "I love you," without making a sound. Tevin comprehends and responds with a smile and a nod. Rehaan smiles in return. The members prepare themselves in their positions. Tevin glances at his bandmates, who give him a thumbs up to signal that they are ready to perform.


    It''s showtime. Tevin takes hold of the microphone and begins to speak. The spotlight shines on Tevin as the crowd cheers his name. He gazes proudly at the audience.


    "Hey everyone. I am thrilled...we are...to be here. The song we are about to perform took a lot of effort to complete. It''s special- Tevin pauses for a moment, a smile gracing his lips, before clearing his throat and continuing- It''s a song that I want to dedicate to someone special in my life, someone who has always been there for me and made me feel cherished. It''s for someone I am incredibly proud of. The song is called...Forever With You." Tevin smiles and locks eyes with Rehaan.


    As the background lights illuminate the stage and the enchanting sound of the guitar fills the air, Tevin begins to sing. Rehaan, filled with anticipation, eagerly awaits the commencement of the song.


    To be continued....

 Chapter 50 : To See Your Smile

    The competition begins. A huge crowd has gathered in the auditorium to support their favourite groups. The performance begins with the group ''Code Love''. The crowd at the JLN stadium was packed. Rehaan goes to his sister who is talking to Sam. As he stands near her, Maahi stops chatting and turns to Rehaan.


    "Maahi...You don''t need to worry. You can keep chatting. Pretend I am not here". Rehaan says mockingly. And looks away from them.


    Maahi bows her head, she was shy. Then she gently touches Rehaan''s shoulder. "Brother, when you are with your brother Tevin, you behave like this too. I have never complained". Maahi smiles and grins.


    Rehaan wanted to say something, but he didn''t. Rehaan blushed, his face turning red.


    "Enough with the jokes. Let''s go to the hall"- Said Rehaan and Sam and Maahi agreed. The three of them go into the hall. They walk towards the first court and stop there.


    The competition was very close. The performance of Tevin and his team was 5th. So, they were ready in the backstage when the 4th performance starts.


    So they were ready backstage when the 4th performance began. As soon as the 4th performance was over, the host of the show came on stage to announce the next performance.


    "Next up is the celebrity group. Here come Youth Dreamers". The presenter says with a clap and welcomes the group.


    The crowd cheers loudly and shouts the group''s name. Tevin enters the stage with his friends. Tevin walks up to the stand microphone and plugs in his guitar. Druv stands near the piano, Daksh sits on the seat to play the drums and Aarav stands to Tevin''s left holding the basic guitar.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.Tevin holds his microphone and looks for Rehaan in the crowd. Rehaan is holding the red badge he got from Tevin when they were in university. Rehaan raises his hand and shows it to him. Rehaan catches Tevin''s attention. He notices that Rehaan still has the badge.


    Rehaan opens his mouth. "I love you". He says without speaking. Tevin understands and smiles, nodding. Rehaan smiles back. The members get ready on their spot. Tevin looks at his members, they show their thumbs up to tell him that they are ready to perform.


    Time to perform. Tevin holds the mike and starts to talk. The spot light focused on Tevin. People cheers Tevin''s name. He looks at the crowd proudly.


    "Hello everyone. I am so happy...we are...to stand here. The song we are playing here took a long time to finish. Because this is special. This is a song which I want to dedicate someone in my life, who was always there with me to make me feel special. It''s for someone who I am so proud of. The song is called...Forever With You". Tevin smiles and looks at Rehaan.


    The background lights on and the guitar sounds starts. Tevin starts to sing. Rehaan eagerly waited for the song.


    To be continued....

 Chapter 51 : Accepting the Real Feeling

    As the melody reached its final note, Rehaan''s eyes brimmed with tears. The lyrics had struck a chord deep within him, resonating with his own experiences. The raw emotions conveyed in the song were like a mirror reflecting his own journey. Overwhelmed by the connection, he longed to embrace Tevin, the singer, after the performance.


    Unlike the other bands, Tevin remained on stage, seeking validation from his fellow bandmates. Arav, Duksh, and Druv stood together, a united front, nodding and smiling in unwavering support. Tevin''s gaze swept across the crowd, met with thunderous cheers. For a fleeting moment, he closed his eyes, savouring the magnitude of the moment before revealing an LGBTQ flag from his pocket.


    As he draped himself in the vibrant colours of the flag, a hush fell over the audience, anticipation hanging in the air. Then, like a tidal wave, applause erupted, filling the room with a symphony of appreciation. Tevin radiated an undeniable sense of pride, his authenticity shining through every fibre of his being. In that moment, Rehaan, though nervous, couldn''t help but feel an overwhelming sense of joy.


    Surrounded by their supportive friends, Duksh took the guitar from Tevin, a silent signal that it was his turn to speak. The audience and judges leaned in, eagerly awaiting Tevin''s words as he firmly grasped the microphone, ready to share his truth.


    Tevin''s voice trembled as he spoke, his words carrying a mix of apology and determination. "Forgive me for my sudden outburst, but I refuse to apologize for being true to myself," he confessed, his gaze fixed upon Rehaan. With a deep breath, he turned his attention back to the crowd, his eyes filled with a newfound sense of purpose. "This is something I''ve always yearned for, a moment I''ve longed to seize. I am in love, deeply and unconditionally, and yes, it is with another man. My affection for him is akin to the way I cherish music, an integral part of who I am. I refuse to believe that my love is a mistake, for it has brought me immense joy and fulfilment. I am a person who craves love, the kind of love I have yearned for all my life. And finally, in my college days, I found someone who bestowed upon me a love like no other. His smile brightened my darkest days, and he showered me with a love I had never experienced before. And now, it is time for me to pursue the things that bring me happiness and fulfilment." Tevin''s voice quivered with emotion as he spoke, his words resonating with the crowd.


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version."I once experienced the pain of losing him, and I never want to go through that again. That''s why I am determined to hold on to this person no matter what happens". Tevin took a deep breath before speaking again, "Yes, I am gay and I have feelings for a boy. If my sexuality makes you hate me, that''s okay as long as I have the support of those who care about me. Thank you, my friends, for always being there for me. I appreciate you all... Someone once told me that we can''t change people''s opinions. So, I will respect whatever my fans decide. But my passion for music and my love for my fans will always remain unchanged. I will continue creating music. Thank you for being a part of my journey so far. I love you all." As Tevin finished his heartfelt words, his friends gathered around him for a group hug on stage. They then turned to the audience, bowed, and walked off together.


    Some fans in the crowd shouted, "Tevin, we love you!" Tevin turned around, surprised by the overwhelming support. The cheers for their band name grew even louder. Tevin was taken aback by the reaction, tears welling up in his eyes. The cameras focused on him as he gratefully placed his hands together in thanks. Rehaan, witnessing it all, couldn''t help but feel overjoyed and wiped away his own tears.


    After the performance, Tevin made his way backstage. Rehaan hurried over to him, and they embraced tightly. Tevin leaned his head on Rehaan''s shoulder, feeling the love and support from his friend and bandmate. The other members of the band watched with smiles on their faces.


    "You did amazing out there, Tevin," Rehaan said softly.


    Tevin, his eyes still moist, replied, "I love you, Rehaan."


    "I know. I love you too," Rehaan said, patting Tevin''s head affectionately.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 52 : The Unbreakable Promise

    Rehaan and Tevin sat in silence in the room, as the rest of the group lingered outside, awaiting the verdict. Rehaan''s voice broke the quiet, "I apologize."


    Tevin questioned, "For what?"


    "Because... I''m the reason you had to expose yourself like this. And before the decision. So, I''m nervous."


    "Are you worried we won''t triumph?"


    "It''s not that, but I..."


    "I understand your apprehension. But I no longer want to conceal our relationship. I''m tired of pretending we''re just friends. That''s all."


    "But what if things don''t go according to plan?"


    "Hmm... If I emerge victorious, I''ll bring you up on stage and demonstrate to everyone how important you are to me. But if I fail, then once we return home, I''ll share a picture of us together with the caption - Lover."


    "Tevin, I''m being sincere."


    "I am too," Tevin responds. Rehaan shoots Tevin a glare. Tevin grins and takes Rehaan''s hand. "All I want is you, Rehaan. I''ll be content. If I don''t succeed now, I''ll continue chasing my dream with you. This competition will return in two years. I can win another time. But the way the audience cheered for me, I''m overjoyed to receive such love from them. It makes me feel special."


    "I feel sorry for your friends," he admitted, his voice tinged with regret.


    "They won''t, Rehaan," Tevin reassured him, his voice filled with conviction. "Before we became a team, we were good friends. They were the ones who supported and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. We are the Youth Dreamers, and we won''t let defeat easily overcome us."


    A tender smile graced Rehaan''s lips as Tevin held his face gently. "Don''t you know that your boyfriend is amazing?" Tevin whispered, his voice filled with adoration.


    Rehaan chuckled softly. "Hmm... I do know that," he replied, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Especially when I saw you on stage, you looked so cool."


    Tevin''s confidence shone through as he responded, "I know that. I am the most handsome."


    Rehaan couldn''t help but tease him. "Uhh... I said cool, not handsome. Those are two different words with different meanings."


    Tevin playfully pouted, his eyes filled with mock hurt. "Hoho... Can''t you call me handsome just once?"


    Rehaan smirked mischievously. "Oh really?" he replied, his voice dripping with amusement. Tevin wrapped his arms around Rehaan from the side, seeking comfort.


    Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!"I am hurt now, Rehaan," Tevin said, his voice laced with feigned sadness. "Comfort me."


    Rehaan leaned closer to Tevin''s face, his voice filled with affection. "You were so handsome. Handsome like hell. Are you happy now?"


    Tevin''s lips curled into a satisfied smile as he hugged Rehaan tighter. "Hmm..." he murmured, his voice filled with contentment.


    In a tender embrace, Tevin held Rehaan tightly, whispering, "I love you so much, my cutie."


    Rehaan''s smile widened as he called Tevin''s name. "Tevin," he said softly, his voice filled with warmth. "I promise you, I will always be by your side." He turned and returned Tevin''s embrace, causing tears of joy to well up in Tevin''s eyes.


    They hold each other with an abundance of love. Tevin embraces Rehaan tightly and expresses his love, causing Rehaan to smile. Rehaan then assures Tevin of his constant presence and reciprocates the hug. Tears of joy well up in Tevin''s eyes as they hold each other with deep affection. After a moment, they break the embrace and gaze into each other''s eyes. Tevin tenderly kisses Rehaan''s fingers, prompting a wide smile from Rehaan. Just then, Druv knocks on the door, interrupting their moment. Rehaan and Tevin become alert and compose themselves.


    "It''s me, Tevin" Druv announces.


    Tevin invites him in, and Druv enters with a teasing smile on his face.


    Why are you doing that expression, seems suspicious. Tevin asks


    Druv playfully responds, "Oh, I''m entering the lovebirds'' room, so I should be cautious.


    Well what were you guys doing- Asks Druv


    Tevin questions his meaning, to which Druv replies, "Oh, never mind. Don''t tell me".


    Tevin, frustrated and asked "Why the hell are you here, my dear friend".


    Druv explains that they have been called to the stage for the announcement of the results.


    "Tevin agrees to go. Hmm". Ok Tevin says and looks at Rehaan. "Rehaan I got to go".


    "Hmm. I will be on the same spot". Rehaan assures


    As Tevin leaves with Druv, Rehaan joins Maahi and Sam in their designated spot. The atmosphere is tense as the results are about to be revealed. The host approaches the stage with the results, handing them to the special guest. Rehaan prays for Tevin''s victory, while Tevin and his team anxiously hold each other''s hands, awaiting the outcome.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 53 : The Grand Open

    "So... the winners of music fest 2023 are...Youth Dreamers!" The crowd erupts in cheers, shouting their names. Tevin and his bandmates embrace each other, jumping with excitement as they make their way to the centre of the stage. Mahi and Rehaan hug tightly, unable to contain their joy. The special guest approaches the group and presents them with the award and cash prize. The audience cheers even louder for them.


    In the distance, a group of girls holds up a poster that reads, "We still love you Tevin." When Tevin sees it, he can''t help but burst into tears. His bandmates quickly comfort him. The host comes closer and instructs them to stay on stage and perform the song again. They remain on stage, ready to perform. Tevin and his team stand there, waiting for their instruments to be brought on stage. Once the staff brings them, they take their positions. The audience eagerly awaits their performance. As soon as the song begins, Rehaan, Mahi, and Sam cheer for their band.


    Tevin catches sight of Rehaan''s smile. When he reaches the last few lines, he walks over to Rehaan''s side. Rehaan knows the promise he made and nods his head, granting permission. Tevin steps down from the stage and approaches Rehaan, raising his right hand for Rehaan to hold. Rehaan takes his hand and they walk towards the stage together. The spotlights and cameras focus on them as they stand face to face. Tevin sings the last line directly to Rehaan, who smiles and listens with delight.


    The crowd cheers even louder when they see Tevin''s lover. As soon as the song ends, Tevin looks at Rehaan and smiles. The crowd goes wild with cheers. Tevin sets aside his microphone and looks at the crowd, then turns to Rehaan.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report."Thank you, Rehaan, for coming into my life," Tevin says.


    Rehaan smiles and nods.


    Tevin''s cheeks were wet with tears as Rehaan approached him, gently cradling his face and planting a kiss on his lips. Tevin was taken aback but filled with joy.


    Stepping back, Rehaan declared, "I love you, Tevin," with a smile.


    Tevin couldn''t help but laugh, pulling Rehaan closer for another passionate kiss. The crowd''s cheers grew louder, and cameras clicked away, capturing their intimate moment. Lost in their love, they were oblivious to everything else happening around them.


    The rest of the group members stands around them, applauding with pride. Maahi glances over at them, beaming with joy. Everyone around the world was tuning in to watch the live stream. Many of the comments flooding in were filled with support, even from those who weren''t fans. Of course, there were also some homophobic remarks, as expected.


    The live stream was reaching a global audience, including Rehaan''s family. Together, they captured the beautiful moment and shared it on social media, showing their unwavering support for their son. Rehaan''s parents joined in the applause from the stage, their hearts filled with pride. Sam gazes at Maahi, who is laughing with pure happiness. He reaches out and takes her hand, and she smiles back at him. Rehaan and Tevin lock eyes before turning their attention to the crowd. The sound of cheers fills them with overwhelming joy. They hold hands and express their gratitude to their fans.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 54 - New Chapter Of Life

    (Home)


    Rehaan settled comfortably on the sofa, a smile spreading across his face. "That was an incredible opening," he exclaimed with enthusiasm.


    "I agree, it was amazing," Tevin responded, raising his eyebrow as he sat down beside Rehaan.


    Rehaan nodded in approval as Tevin came closer. "You did promise to join me on stage if we won. But that kiss...that was unexpected. You''re something else".


    "Oh, I just wanted to express my appreciation. Is that a problem?" Rehaan questioned.


    Tevin chuckled, patting Rehaan''s head affectionately. "Aww, my sly boyfriend has become quite bold," he remarked.


    Rehaan expressed, "I want everyone to know that you''re my boyfriend," as he drew Tevin closer. "Did you not like it?" he asked.


    Tevin smiled warmly. "Of course, I love everything about you," he reassured.


    "Indeed, my boyfriend gave me my first official on-stage kiss," Tevin added.


    "First kiss? Was that really your first kiss, Tevin?" Rehaan inquired.


    Tevin gave a sweet smile and blinked innocently. Rehaan couldn''t help but smile back at Tevin''s adorable look.


    Leaning in, Rehaan playfully urged Tevin to spill the truth. "Come on, spill it, Tevin,"


    "Oh, you know that''s not true. I''ve had plenty of kisses in my life. Don''t tease me when you already know that," Tevin answered.


    "True, you were the Romeo of our college. Or should I say, the Casanova?" Rehaan teased, grinning. "Which one do you prefer, Mr. Rockstar?"


    Tevin smiled. "I''ll go with Casanova."


    Rehaan chuckled, satisfied with the response. "Ah, Casanova it is."


    "Nope," Tevin corrected with a grin "Mr. Rockstar. I believe that title suits me perfectly."


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident."Hmm, alright," Rehaan conceded, sitting up straight and giving Tevin his full attention.


    "Rehaan, I must admit that I''ve kissed many individuals in my lifetime," Tevin confessed. Rehaan glanced at Tevin, their eyes locking, as Tevin continued, "But you, my friend, are the first man who has ever kissed me. And you will be the only one I will ever allow."


    A warm smile spread across Rehaan''s face. "Is that a promise?" he asked, his voice filled with hope.


    "Why else would I have waited for you, Rehaan?" Tevin replied, his tone filled with sincerity. "Think about it, you''re going to be a cop. Don''t you trust me?"


    Rehaan''s smile widened. "Then don''t you dare mess with your cop boyfriend, alright?" he playfully warned, gently squeezing Tevin''s cheeks.


    Tevin nodded, moving closer to Rehaan. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he asked, "So, can I have the same gift you gave me on stage?" Tevin leaned in, ready to capture Rehaan''s lips in a passionate kiss. Rehaan understood his intentions and slightly parted his lips, freezing in anticipation. However, their intimate moment was interrupted by a sudden text message that appeared on Tevin''s phone, causing him to abruptly step back.


    "Who in the world is messaging me now, at the most inconvenient time?" Tevin exclaimed in frustration.


    Rehaan couldn''t help but smile, teasingly saying, "Don''t worry, I''ll catch you later."


    Tevin retrieved his phone and discovered a message from an unknown number, feeling a sense of confusion wash over him. He opened the text and was taken aback by its contents.


    Rehaan noticed Tevin''s reaction and asked, concern evident in his voice, "What''s wrong, Tevin? Who is it?"


    "It''s... my father," Tevin replied, his voice filled with a mixture of emotions, as he looked at Rehaan with a mixture of emotions.


    To be continued

 Chapter 55 : With You I am Not Scared Of Anything

    Tevin''s eyes were filled with tears as he looked at Rehaan. Rehaan, sensing his distress, moved closer and placed a comforting hand on Tevin''s shoulder.


    "What did your dad say?" Rehaan inquired softly. Tevin wordlessly showed him the chat, and Rehaan read it aloud.


    "Tevin, my son. We are so proud of you. Sorry for not understanding you before. If you''re okay, can you please come back to our family? We miss you, son. Tell Rehaan we are sorry too."


    Feeling overwhelmed, Tevin began to cry. "Rehaan, what should I do?" he asked, his voice trembling.


    "Reply to him. Everyone deserves a second chance," Rehaan suggested, his voice filled with compassion.


    "But I''m scared. What if things go back to how they were before? What if they hurt me again?" Tevin expressed his fears, shaking his head in frustration.


    Rehaan gently held Tevin''s face, looking into his eyes. "Nothing will happen. We''ll face it together, no matter what," he reassured him, his voice unwavering. Tevin''s gaze locked onto Rehaan''s, seeking comfort.


    "Don''t worry, Tevin. I''ll be right there with you. We''ll confront your parents together. I won''t leave your side," Rehaan promised, his tone filled with determination.


    Tevin nodded, a faint smile appearing through his tears. "Rehaan, please stay with me forever."


    "I will. Why would I have waited for you all these years if I didn''t mean it?" Rehaan replied sincerely.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.Tevin managed a smile through his tears. "You stole my line. But I don''t mind, as long as it''s you," he teased gently.


    Rehaan smiled back and leaned in to kiss Tevin''s forehead, tears streaming down both their faces. After the kiss, Rehaan pulled back slightly.


    "Can you hug me today, Rehaan?" Tevin asked softly, looking down.


    Rehaan''s face lights up as he calls out Tevin''s name. Tevin turns to look at him, a small smile forming on his lips. Rehaan extends his arms, silently asking for a hug. Tevin steps closer, wrapping his arms around Rehaan in a warm embrace. Rehaan returns the hug, running his fingers through Tevin''s hair soothingly. Their foreheads touch, creating a sense of peace for Tevin. They remain in each other''s arms for a while, eventually drifting off to sleep.


    As the hours pass, Tevin remains sound asleep in Rehaan''s embrace. Rehaan rises quietly, observing Tevin''s peaceful slumber. Instead of waking him, Rehaan carefully lifts Tevin and carries him to his bedroom. Gently laying Tevin on the bed, Rehaan switches off the light and tucks him in with a soft blanket before settling down beside him. In their sleep, Tevin instinctively moves closer to Rehaan, seeking comfort in his embrace. Rehaan responds by holding him close, and soon they both drift off into a peaceful slumber together.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 56: His Personal Comfort Zone

    The next morning, Tevin woke up and noticed Rehaan sleeping beside him. He moved closer to Rehaan and started playing with his hair, which was covering his face.


    "Are you playing with my hair, naughty Tevin?" Rehaan asked, surprising Tevin.


    "You were awake?" Tevin asked in astonishment.


    Rehaan opened his eyes and looked at Tevin. "Why? Were you planning to do something mischievous?" Rehaan questioned.


    "What do you mean by mischievous? I was just fixing your hair," Tevin replied, pouting.


    "Oh really? I had high expectations from you," Rehaan teased.


    "Uh! Were you expecting me to make the first move?" Tevin inquired.


    Rehaan paused for a moment and then shook his head. "Nothing, I was just joking. Don''t mind me," he said, gazing at Tevin. "Are you hungry? I can make something for you," Rehaan offered, attempting to get up. However, Tevin pulled him back onto the bed.


    "Let me go, Tevin," Rehaan protested.


    "Nope, why are you trying to escape? Are you shy?" Tevin teased.


    "No way. I was just hungry and wanted to make something to eat," Rehaan explained.


    "Hmm, I''m also really hungry," Tevin admitted.


    Rehaan was taken aback. "I was just hungry and wanted to make something to eat," he explained.


    Tevin nodded in agreement. "I''m also really hungry."


    "Alright, then I''ll whip something up for you," Rehaan offered.


    Tevin didn''t let go of Rehaan''s hand and moved closer. "But I''m hungry for something else," he admitted.


    "What do you mean?" Rehaan asked, his face turning red.


    "Are you drunk, Rehaan?" Tevin inquired.


    "No, why would you think that?" Rehaan replied.


    "Your face is all flushed," Tevin pointed out with a smile.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.Rehaan touched his face in surprise. "Oh, it''s just really warm in here."


    "In this air-conditioned room?" Tevin raised an eyebrow.


    Rehaan avoided eye contact. Suddenly, Tevin climbed on top of him.


    "What are you doing?" Rehaan questioned.


    "The thing we didn''t finish yesterday. Should I start now?" Tevin teased.


    "Wait, it''s too early in the morning for that," Rehaan protested.


    Tevin chuckled. "Exactly, that''s why I''m hungry."


    Rehaan looked flustered as Tevin gently held his face.


    Rehaan, can I make you mine?" Tevin asks eagerly, waiting for Rehaan''s approval.


    Rehaan gazes at Tevin, then wraps his arms around Tevin''s shoulder and nods in agreement.


    Tevin grins and leans in, gently rubbing Rehaan''s head with his own.


    "Want to meet my father-in-law together tomorrow?" Rehaan suggests.


    Tevin looks up, pouting slightly, and hesitantly asks, "Is that a good idea? Can we postpone it?"


    "Why? Scared?" Rehaan teases, leaning in to stroke Tevin''s hair.


    Tevin takes Rehaan''s hand, placing his head on his palm, and nods with a smile.


    "You know, you look like a puppy right now," Rehaan remarks.


    "Hm...then who are you, a cat?" Tevin jokes.


    "Nope, I''m the owner of the dog," Rehaan playfully responds, making Tevin smile.


    "Really?"


    "Yeah...any doubts?"


    "No, sir."


    "Then what about the meeting?"


    "Hmm," Tevin contemplates for a moment before agreeing, "Fine, let''s go and meet them. I''m in."


    "What about now, are you ready?" Rehaan asks.


    Tevin looks confused, "Ready for what?"


    "I''ll show you," Rehaan says, leaning in closer.


    Tevin understands his intentions and lies back on the bed. Rehaan kisses Tevin on the lips, fulfilling all his desires.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 57 : Gaining The Trust Again

    The very next day, Rehaan and Tevin decided to visit Tevin''s house. Even though Rehaan had been to his house multiple times before, this time was different. It had been a while since their last visit, and Rehaan was feeling a bit nervous entering as Tevin''s lover. On top of that, Tevin''s father had never been fond of Rehaan.


    As the clock struck 11:00, Rehaan and Tevin arrived at the house, both dressed in matching outfits. Rehaan wore a brown pant with a black t-shirt, while Tevin sported a black pant with a brown t-shirt. They made their way towards the house, with Tevin having already informed his mother about their arrival. Tevin rang the doorbell, and his mother warmly welcomed him upon seeing him. Tevin and Rehaan entered the house, noticing a change in his mother''s behaviour. It felt a bit strange to Tevin, as he had never seen her so calm before. His father was waiting for them in the living room, and they both joined him there.


    When his father saw Tevin, he greeted him with a big smile, but his expression turned slightly surprised upon seeing Rehaan. "I didn''t expect Rehaan to be with you, son"- his father said, putting on a smile and continuing, "But it''s alright. You both come and sit here."


    Rehaan felt a bit embarrassed and glanced at Tevin. Tevin motioned for him to sit beside him, so he followed and took a seat across from his father.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it"Rehaan, how are you, son?" Mother walked in and asked.


    Rehaan smiled and replied, "I''m fine aunty".


    "We''re sorry, Rehaan, we didn''t know you were coming too. We could have prepared your favourites". she said.


    "No worries, aunty. I''m good with whatever Tevin likes"- he said suddenly. Tevin looked surprised at Rehaan, who realized what he had just said and blushed at his own words. The room fell silent.


    Tevin''s mother approached him and said, "Tevin, are you hungry, son? Let''s eat first. Your mother prepared all your favourite food."


    She took Tevin''s hand and said, "Come, dear. Let''s eat." Then she turned to Rehaan and said, "Come, Rehaan, let''s eat together." Rehaan smiled and nodded in agreement. Tevin followed his mother to the dinner table, with Rehaan sitting beside him.


    Tevin, your favourite paneer dish Mother said, as his mother served, Rehaan knows that Tevin didn''t like paneer. He didn''t want to spoil the day, so he remained silent.


    Paneer is dad''s favourite Tevin thought to himself, feeling disappointed by his parents behaviour. ''They still didn''t know my likes and dislikes''. Tevin put his hands on his thighs, lips drawn tightly.


    "Thanks, ma," Tevin said.


    Rehaan put down his hands and held Tevin''s hand, gesturing for him to stay calm. Tevin only hoped that his family would accept Rehaan.


    To be continued...

 Chapter 58 - I Will Always Love You (The last Chapter)

    After finishing their meal, they both exited the house. Now it was Rehaan''s turn to drive, with Tevin sitting beside him. Tevin was already in a bad mood before today''s meeting with his parents, and he wasn''t happy about how it went. As they drove, Rehaan noticed Tevin''s unhappy face. He took a quick look outside, flicked on the left turn signal, and pulled the car over to the side of the road.


    "Why did you stop the car, Rehaan?" Tevin asked.


    "I have something to take care of here. Just wait for me, I''ll be back soon," Rehaan explained.


    "Hmm," Tevin responded with a pouty face. "Hurry back, okay?"


    Rehaan nodded and disappeared. Tevin waited in the car, turning on some music to try and improve his mood. After a while, Rehaan returned. Tevin spotted him and smiled, getting back into the vehicle. Rehaan had a small package in his hand.


    "You took forever to come back," Tevin said with a smile.


    "Hmm... the line was really long," Rehaan replied.


    "For what?" Tevin asked.


    Rehaan handed Tevin the package, and Tevin took it in his hands.


    "What''s this?" Tevin questioned.


    "Open it and you''ll find out," Rehaan said.


    Tevin eagerly opened the package and his face lit up when he saw what was inside. "Roast chicken!" he exclaimed. "Is this for me?"


    "Hmm... it''s all for you. Extra crispy fried chicken, your favourite," Rehaan confirmed.


    Tevin''s face brightened even more as he turned to Rehaan. "Thank you so much, baby."


    Rehaan tries to comfort Tevin, "I understand you were upset about your parents forgetting your favourite food and making something you dislike. Just give them some time to get to know you better. I''m confident things will improve. Trust me."


    Tevin questions, "But what if they never really understand my preferences?"


    "Stay positive, Tevin," Rehaan encourages. Tevin''s smile fades once more. Rehaan then takes Tevin''s right hand, holding it firmly.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon."If your parents don''t change, I''ll step in and cook your favourite meal for you. I might not know how to make everything, but I''ll learn. And if I can''t learn, we can always go shopping like we did today" Rehaan reassures.


    Really? Tevin asks


    "Yes," he replies.


    "I promise," Rehaan says, raising his hand and pointing his Pinky finger towards Tevin. Tevin places his Pinky finger on his finger and promises.


    "Hmm," Rehaan says. "In return, I want to see your smile."


    "For my smile, you will do anything?" Tevin asks.


    Rehaan nods. Tevin smiles.


    Tevin grabs Rehaan''s hand and pushes him towards Tevin, giving a peck kiss on his lips.


    Rehaan is surprised. "We are outside, Tevin. What if people see us?" he says.


    "So what, no one is around," Tevin says with a smirk.


    "So what?" Rehaan asks.


    "Oh, I was kissing my boyfriend. Do you have any problem?" Tevin says.


    "Is that what you call a kiss?" Rehaan says, grabbing Tevin''s collar and moving closer to him, kissing deeper on the lips. Rehaan kisses deeper and deeper whenever he moves his lower lips. They both don''t want to stop. Both their bodies heat up. Tevin stops kissing and moves back. "We should go home, Rehaan," Tevin says.


    Rehaan looks confused. "What happened? Did I hurt you, Tevin?" he asks.


    "Nope, I''m just hungry," he says, touching Rehaan''s shoulder. "And I think before eating this crispy chicken, I need to eat something much tastier than that." Tevin looks at him with his flirty eyes.


    Rehaan smiles. Tevin takes his hand and says, "What do you say, Rehaan?"


    "As you say. I also wanted to unwrap that" Rehaan replies.


    "Then... what are you waiting for?" Tevin smiles and says. Rehaan playfully winks his eye and starts the engine.


    The car set off on a long journey of two beautiful souls.


    -End-