Chapter 19: A Gift Like No Other
July had arrived — a month filled with monsoon showers, the scent of wet earth, and soft breezes that made evenings feel alive. But for Niyati, July meant something more. It meant Vansh’s birthday.
She had been secretly planning for weeks. From selecting the perfect cake to arranging decorations and inviting a few of Vansh’s closest friends from college — everything had to be flawless.
Why? Because Vansh had become more than just a friend. He had been a steady hand when her world felt like it was crumbling, a patient listener when words were hard to form, and the rare soul who cared without expecting anything in return. She wanted this day to be special for him — just as he had unknowingly made so many days special for her.
The Surprise
The office had been transformed that evening. Fairy lights hung like glowing threads across the walls, balloons in shades of blue and white floated near the ceiling, and a huge cake with the words “Happy Birthday Vansh” sat proudly at the center.
The aroma of chocolate mingled with the fragrance of fresh flowers. Laughter and soft chatter filled the air as employees glanced toward the entrance, excitement twinkling in their eyes.
Finally, the glass door opened. Vansh stepped in, slightly tired from the day, but the moment he saw the dimmed lights and heard everyone shout,
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, VANSHHH!”
…he froze.
His eyes widened, and for a moment, he just stood there, blinking — as if his mind were trying to catch up with reality.
Then he saw her.
Niyati stood a few steps ahead, holding a plate with the first piece of cake, her eyes shining with the satisfaction of pulling off the perfect surprise. Their gazes locked briefly, and she smiled — not her usual polite smile, but one that reached her eyes.
The celebration began. Vansh cut the cake, and as per office tradition, he fed the first bite to someone. Without hesitation, he walked straight to Niyati, holding out the small piece. She accepted it with a soft “thank you” and playfully offered him a bite in return.
The employees clapped, teased, and laughed, yet both of them seemed caught in their own little world.
The Gift Request
After the cake was served and the music softened, Vansh walked over to the balcony where Niyati was watching the rain. A half-smile played on his face — the kind that made her heart flutter with curiosity.
“You forgot my gift,” he said casually, almost like a complaint, but with a mischievous sparkle in his eyes.
Her eyebrows lifted. “Oh… I’m sorry. What do you want?”
For a second, he didn’t answer. He glanced at her father, sitting nearby with a warm smile, and took a deep breath — the kind you take before saying something life-changing.
The Proposal
Slowly, he walked toward her father. Everyone’s attention shifted to them. Then, without a word, Vansh dropped to one knee.
Gasps echoed across the room. Music faded. Conversations stopped. The rain outside seemed to grow louder — as if the world were listening.
Looking directly at Niyati, his voice steady but full of emotion, he said,
“What I want… is you. Niyati, will you be my wife?”
Her breath caught. For a second, her mind went blank. She could see everyone’s expectant faces, hear her own heartbeat in her ears. She had never imagined this moment happening here, in front of colleagues and family. Yet deep inside, her heart had known the answer all along.
She stepped forward, lips trembling, and whispered,
“Yes…”
Then, with more certainty,
“Yes, my future husband.”
The room erupted into cheers. Some clapped, some whistled, some even shed tears. Vansh stood and pulled her into a gentle embrace — the kind that spoke more than words ever could.
A Father’s Blessing
Her father walked forward, eyes glistening but smile wide. Placing a hand on Vansh’s shoulder, he said,
“Vansh beta… how do I thank you? Today, my biggest responsibility is fulfilled. I know my daughter is in the safest hands.”
Vansh bowed his head slightly, replying softly, “I promise, uncle… I’ll never let her feel alone. Ever.”
Her father nodded, and for the first time in years, Niyati felt rare, unshakable peace.
That night wasn’t just Vansh’s birthday. It became the day they stepped into a new chapter — one written not with grand promises, but with years of silent care, shared pain, and an unspoken bond that had finally found its voice.
