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Part 3 of War (2019) Series
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2020-04-12
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2024-09-20
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10/?
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Love Me Till The End (Hrithik&Tiger OS Series)

Summary:

This is another OS series based on Hrithik Roshan/Tiger (Jai) Shroff pairing. Each chapter has a drabble or OS.

Chapter 1: Ice Cream Talk

Chapter Text

Based on Hrithik's comment: ['kal raat main bed mein laita howa tha ice cream khah raha tha. Maine Tiger ko phone kiya ke woh kya kar raha hai toh usne kaha main bed mein hon, ice cream khah raha hon. We both were feeling same things'.]

 

"Main abhi bed mein ice cream khah raha tha, feeling happy about movie. Tu bata kya kar raha hai?"

Few seconds of silence.

"Jai?"

"Main bhi bed mein leta howa hon aur ice cream khah raha hon."

A few seconds silence on Hrithik's side.

"We both are feeling the same things then." Hrithik says in joking manner but Tiger feels himself going red and melting. Only if he knew what feelings Tiger was feeling while thinking about the movie. Taking another scoop in mouth he just hums.

"It feels great, haina? Movie itni successful hogayi."

"Woh toh honi hi thi, aap jo ho esme." Hrithik allows himself to feels blush as no one is there to watch him. He thought maybe afterall this time he might get used to Tiger's genuine praises but they still have a certain affect on him.

"Kyunki hum dono hain esme." He corrects Tiger and can hear his shy smile over the phone and it makes Hrithik smile too warmly.

There is a pause for few seconds as both of them take another scoop and hear each other eat ice cream and in that moment Hrithik does not feel alone, he only wishes he could see Tiger too but he banishes that thought. That young man truly admires and loves him and he is the one person Hrithik cannot dream of hurting. Sometimes when it gets too much he would succumb to harmless flirting just to see him blush, the way his eyes would drop, that shy smile playing on his lips, hands would fidget - so many times Hrithik had to control himself from reaching out and taking his hand.

He tried to stop, he did but then he saw how Tiger would feel low and would start to wonder if he made a mistake and Hrithik's heart would feel a tug. So trying to put his feelings aside he tried his best to be there for Tiger.

"Kya soch rahe hain?" That sweet, shy voice breaks his chain of thoughts. For a second he wants to tell the truth.

"Kuch khaas nahi." And Tiger believes him. He loves and hates how much just this guy trusts him. At such moments Hrithik wants to shake him up and scream 'stay away from me. I am nothing but trouble, I'm not worthy of your trust and love.' But he is a weak human being so each time he gets even a slight attention from Tiger, he drinks on it like a thirsty man searching for water for years.

A sudden sob threatens to choke out of him causing Tiger alarmed.

"Kya howa, aap theek ho?"

"Haan... Ice cream went into wrong pipe." He manages to keep his voice from shaking.

"Please araam se khao, apna khayal rakho. Mujhe aise mat darao please." And moments like this make Hrithik want to do something impulsive. Its good Tiger isn't here right now or else he would have done something impulsive like holding him tight and kiss him senseless.

Clearing his throat, Hrithik takes few breaths as Tiger listens to him.

"Aap theek ho?"

"Haan." He coughs and tries not to let another sob out.

"Konsi ice cream khah rahe ho?"

Tiger notices something is off but he accepts the question.

"Double chocolate, chip cookies." Hrithik goes still as he watches ice cream tub on his bed.

"I don't believe you."

"Kyun?" He can hear the cute pout and it makes him smile.

"Main bhi wohi double choco chip khah raha hon." Tiger smiles shyly.

"Ajeeb itefaaq hai." Tiger replies back after taking another bite.

"Itefaaq yaan phir..."

"Yaan phir?"

"Kuch nahi... chodo."

"Main aapko copy nahi kar raha." Hrithik tries to stifle his laughter.

"Maine aisa toh nahi kaha. Main toh yeh soch raha hon ke main tumhe copy kar raha hon." Tiger blushes at this and Hrithik smiles widely at this.

Only Hrithik keeps wishing if he could see him right now. Maybe Tiger was really reading his mind because he hears shuffling and before he could ask, he recieves a picture of Tiger hugging his ice cream preciously with a spoon in his mouth.

Hrithik's breathe catches in his throat and the things this picture does to his mind, it's good thing Tiger isn't in front of him right now.

"Kya howa? Picture achi nahi lagi?" Oh... well, two can play this game then.

"Bohut hi achi hai, aur spoon toh kitni fit lag rahi hai." Tiger goes into a coughing fit realising what he means and Hrithik laughs loudly.

Tiger tries to recover from the coughing fit while Hrithik laughs loudly, hearing that carefree laugh Tiger's heart skips beat or two. It's rare when Hrithik laughs like this and he feels special to have caused.

"Aise haste ho toh bohut ache lagte ho." As soon the words are out Tiger wants to hang up and Hrithik finds himself blushing all over again. What is with this guy keep making Hrithik blush.

"Sorry... I didn't mean..."

"Toh natlab main acha nahi lagta."

"Nahi ache lagte ho, bohut zayada." Shit, shit, shit. What the hell Tiger is doing. Ice cream is freezing his brain slowly for sure otherwise he wouldn't be throwing truth so carelessly at Hrithik.

"Bohut zayada?"

"Sabse zayada." Tiger replies slowly.

Chapter 2: I Care

Summary:

Jai (Tiger) is hurt during shooting a sequence for War.

Chapter Text

Hrithik could swore his heart stopped for a spilt second, Jai is hurt, like seriously hurt during the shoot but Hrithik knows how he is holding himself together when all he wants is to take Jai in his arms and hide from all the pain and world.

It isnt until Jai is safely tugged away in his trailer Hrithik finds him alone and on pain meds.

"Tum theek ho, Jai?" He asks as soon he enters the trailer, before Jai can nod, Hrithik is in front of him, examining the hand where it got hurt. Jai, watches him silently as Hrithik fusses over him.

"Kitni bar kaha hai, itna hero banne ki zaroorat nahi hai, khayal kiya karo."

"Dard ho rahi hai abhi bhi?" He asks with pain in his eyes and Jai is taken aback with all this, smiles shyly and shakes his head.

"Ab theek hai, ab dard nahi ho rahi." He says as he looks Hrithik in eyes.

Embarrassed Hrithik steps back a bit, trying to control his emotions and Jai misses the warmth of Hrithik's touch.

"Khayal rakho apna." Jai nods and Hrithik turns to go.

"Thank you." He whispers and Hrithik turns back.

"Kis liye?"

"Care karne ke liye." It takes every strength he has left not to run back to Jai and hold him, show him exactly how much he cares and how desperately he is trying not to show it. He cannot give Jai this but he can still give him something.

"I care, Jai. I always will, more than you think." With this Hrithik leaves the trailer without waiting to see Jai's reaction.

Chapter 3: Promotions

Summary:

YRF announces that Hrithik and Tiger will be doing Solo promotions for War and of course, it doesn't sit well with the boys.

Chapter Text


This is insane. Hrithik is furious. How dare they say that he and Jai cannot do promotions together.

The crestfallen face of Jai is not leaving his sight. Hrithik feels like killing them. All of their hardwork and everything and yet this is what it has come to.

"Samajhne ki koshish karo, hume yeh karna hai."

"Par kyun?" No one was giving him a straight answer but the dirty looks thrown between him and Jai gave him enough idea about what this could be. Hrithik's blood was boiling, he knew if he didnt walk out of meeting, he would have done something in impulse.

Taking few breaths he tries to calm his heart while he thinks about next steps. One thing YRF made it clear, if things don't go their way, they can make things hell for both of them. Hrithik isn't worried about himself, nope, he has been through shit and he can deal with this too. Jai, it's him that Hrithik needs to protect. Jai is innocent, he doesn't know these vultures like Hrithik does. Just because of Jai, Hrithik agrees but doesn't mean it doesn't hurt any less.

Jai joins him after few mins clearly pissed off and heartbroken about the situation.

"This is so unfair." He says and Hrithik silently agrees.

"I know but we can't do anything about it now."

"We can talk to them, convince them, I mean..." Jai feels so lost and still hanging on by a thread and Hrithik knows he has to be the one who can convince Jai.

"It's for best, Jai." Jai looks at him in shock, feeling betrayed.

"Par kyun? Mujhse koi ghalati hogayi hai kya?" And Hrithik wants to burn the world to ground in that moment because it caused his Jai pain.

"Jai, movie promote karni hai aur kitne zayada promotions hain it makes sense to... divide us. Warna sab bohut hectic hojata hai and you know, I'm not much fan of promotions so jitna jaldi hojayein, utna better hai." The crestfallen face of Jai will forever be burned in his memory. This is the single moment he hates most in his life because he is hurting the one person he wants to protect the most.

Hrithik doesn't even know when and how Jai became so important to him but he knows that Jai is someone who will always be in his heart, forever. He knows something is happening but he doesn't focus on it because he rather stay in denial. He knows that higher ups are catching up or just too paranoid s.o.b to actually come to this extent.

"Oh." This single oh is more hurtful to him than that entire meeting.

"Maybe agar saath mein 1-2 hi promotions kar sakein toh..." Oh how Hrithik wishes it was possible. He knows that Jai is eager to spend more time together and so was Hrithik because they aren't ready to say goodbye yet but this just put dampen on their plans.

"It is what it is." Hrithik replies taking a deep breathe and Jai knows there isnt a way around it anymore.

"I'm sorry." Jai replies in soft voice, Hrithik looks at him and is taken aback to find tears in his eyes. This is too much for his heart to handle, he falls weak and comes closer to Jai, taking his face in his hand, gently, he wipes that tear as he pulls Jai in a tight hug. Jai instantly melts in his arms.

"You have nothing to be sorry about." Hrithik tells him while tightening his hold on Jai. It isn't a goodbye but it surely feels like it in a sense. It is finally sinking in that the movie is over, their time together is coming to an end. Hrithik puts a brave face on when they pull apart.

"I'm so proud of you, Jai. Thank You for doing this film with me." And here is that blush Hrithik loves to see, that shy smile is there as eyes shine through the tears. Now this is the image he wants to cherish in his memories forever.

Chapter 4: Kyun Hota Hai Yeh Pyaar

Summary:

After the YRF success party, Hrithik drops Tiger home

Chapter Text

This was written by my lovely, Debs, I only added last lines. 

It was a YRF War Success party and Jai had too much to drink and Hrithik assured Siddharth that he'd drive Jai home himself. No cabs, as the paparazzi can't know about it.

And Hrithik is driving, Jai riding shotgun of course. And Jai turns the music on And it's na tum jano na hum on radio. So Jai, starts singing along in his dreamy intoxicated voice and Hrithik grabs the wheel a bit more tightly to keep himself stable. The song is about to end, Jai is humming the last lines

"Kyon aati hai bahaar

Kyon lutta hai karaar

Kyon hota hai pyaar"

When he stops singing and repeats the line - kyu hota hai pyaar and chuckles and then he lies back on his seat turns his face towards Hrithik and repeats the line again -

Kyon hota hai pyaar

Hrithik is pretending not to hear it but obviously he has heard it well. when Hrithik doesn't answer, Jai sits up and asks Hrithik in a clear voice - kyon hota hai pyaar? And Hrithik still has no answer but only says a few meaningless words like you're drunk, try to rest we'll ll be home soon. So, they're almost about to reach his home when Jai does something unexpected. He tries to grab the wheel and Hrithik had to stop the car.

"Jai what the hell? How much did you drink? You could've caused an accident."

"You are not answering Hrithik sir." Jai is drunk but calm.

"Answer what Jai, you are very very drunk and that's it."

"Why, why do we fall in love? Why did I fall in love?" By this time Jai is crying unbeknown to himself but he asks one last question, "why didn't you?"

"You don't know what you're talking about, Jai. You're drunk. You don't know what you're saying." This time there's defeat in Hrithik's voice with a touch of regret and a dash of guilt.

Now Jai starts laughing and grabs him by the shoulder.

"Did you see the movie? Did you see the way Khalid was looking at Kabir? I wasn't acting, I WAS NOT ACTING. You think people won't notice that? they aren't blind." Jai pulls the older man closer to himself, lips just in hear apart, "and neither are you."

"Yes okay, yes I noticed. The whole production house noticed. That's why we are never allowed to promote the film together. You're easy to read Jai, your eyes can't deceive."

"What's holding you back? You're not married anymore! And I'm an adult." Jai was about to kiss him, "I know what I want."

"Yeh possible nahi hai jai. You'll regret it in the morning. Trust me you will. Find someone your own age."

Hrithik cannot kiss Jai, no matter how much he wants to. Especially not when he's drunk. So he does a responsible thing - he cups Jai's face with his palms as softly he could and said , "we'll talk about this when you're sober. Okay?" And Jai, bless his innocent soul, he believed that. And he was so happy about it. "He said okay and placed a quick kiss on Hrithik's cheeks before going completely unconscious due to his intoxication and over excitement

Hrithik knew very well Jai wouldn't remember a thing in the morning.

Once they reach Jai's place. Hrithik takes an unconscious Jai in his arms, carry him to his bedroom, dropping him carefully on bed. Hrithik sits next to him for few mins and watch him sleep and Hrithik would let few tears fall from his eyes. He was so close to kissing him and Hrithik wanted that so badly but still. "It's better like this, Jai." He kisses his forehead and leaves.

Next day Jai would call Hrithik to thank him for dropping him home and Hrithik for a sec would get scared and hopeful that Jai remembers the conversation but nope, Jai doesn't remember it.

Chapter 5: Dance Practice

Summary:

Jai is having trouble picking up one of step from Jai Jai Shiv Shankar song, Hrithik tries to help him.

Chapter Text

Usually he can pick up steps so easily, he loves dancing but Jai isn't sure what is happening, he can't seem to get certain steps right for Jai Jai Shiv Shankar and he feels so embarrassed and guilty because watching Hrithik and trying to dance with him, it feels like a dream. Watching him makes Jai forget everything else.

But Jai doesn't give up, no matter how hard he has to work he will get these steps right.

Hrithik had silently been observing Jai and can see at certain steps Jai can't seen to get it right. Hrithik wants to call for a break as Jai has been tirelessly trying to work on that step but seeing his determination Hrithik doesn't know how to make him take a break.

Choreographer gives Hrithik pleading look asking him to talk to Jai, Hrithik nods.

"Alright, take a break everyone." Choreographer announces and everyone leaves except for Jai and Hrithik and seems like Jai hasnt heard because he still is working on it. Hrithik is truly admiring Jai's determination and he kbows Jai would never ask for his help so Hrithik decides to step up to help Jai.

"Jai." Hrithik's voice reaches his ears, almost bringing him to a halt. Looking around he finds all gone except for them two.

"It's break time." Hrithik answers his unasked question and Jai feels embarrassed for not noticing it.

"Oh... main aur practice..."

"Haan mere saath practice karoge?" Jai gapes at him before nodding. Holding Jai's hand he brings them in a position and Jai feels electricity going through his body at the touch.

"I've been watching you." Jai goes red at that and Hrithik really enjoys the reaction.

"I think you are trying too hard, Jai." Jai looks down not wanting to see disappointment in Hrithik's eyes.

"Jai." He nods while looking down.

"Look at me." Hrithik request and Jai's head snaps up locking eyes with Hrithik's.

"It's okay. Just... let your body lose, you are too tensed here." Hrithik touches Jai's arms and positions them in right angle while Jai struggles to breathe and to remain calm.

"Jai, breath." Hrithik notices how Jai almost came to a halt at his touch, struggling to breath. Taking one of his hand he places it on his chest as he inhales and exhales and ask Jai to follow his breathing pattern. The touch, his voice, thos closeness is making Jai's blood run south, he tries to control his emotions. Once fully relaxed, Hrithik slowly leads and Jai follows. Slowly, with help of Hrithik, Jai manages to get the step right. When he gets it right he feels so happy, looking at Hrithik for validation and Hrithik gives him double thumbs up and Jai blushes at that. Hrithik is hit by a sudden urge to kiss away that blush and that thought takes his breath away. He quickly turns away and tries to divert his mind. Not sure where and how that thought came in his mind.

Jai is... Jai... he is... Hrithik is not sure what Jai is but when he looks at him the only thought comes into his mind is special. And that is the first time he looks at Jai in different light.

Chapter 6: Hrithik Sir

Summary:

Hrithik confronts Jai about whole 'sir' thing.

Chapter Text

Hrithik Sir

It is so amazing to see some manners in today's generation but one person takes a whole cake with taking respect and manners onto a whole new level - Jai. It was always so enduring to see Jai addressing Hrithik with so much love and respect.

Hrithik thought that now they are doing a movie together so this whole 'sir' would stop but it was totally opposite. Jai took him by surprise yet again and that sir now contains not only respect but so much love. Or was it always there and Hrithik didn't notice?

It was all fine but the frequency of sir increased as they were working together. It was enduring but also making Hrithik feel old and maybe bit arrogant to enjoy that. But most of all what really made it difficult for him that now Jai stopped calling his name altogether it was 'sir' mostly and Hrithik was missing hearing his name from Jai but of course, he wouldn't admit to a soul.

"Jai."

"Jee sir?" Here is that sir again. 

"Tum mujhe sir kyun kehte ho?" Jai looks at him in surprise. 

"Woh.. I mean... I respect you... aapka fan hon... aisi liye." He stutters throughout the whole sentence and Hrithik's heartmelts again at this. 'Tumhari har adaa pe itna pyaar ajata hai. Kaise kar lete ho, Jai?' He wonders to himself while Jai is looking at him expecting an answer.

"That's really sweet, Jai. And I..." he wants to say the L word so badly but he swallows is back in his throatm Jai and L word in a sentence would be death of him.

"I mean... industry mein ajkal koi bhi nahi bolata aise."

"Aap mujhe Jai kyun bolate ho? Industry mein koi mujhe Jai nahi kehta." He asks while looking at Hrithik in damn eyes and this time he is momentarily taken aback.

"Main humesha se hi tumhe Jai kehta hon."

"Aur main bhi esi liye sir kehta hon kyunki humesha se sir kaha hai aur mana bhi hai." He replies so simply and Hrithik is left amazed by him. But still it doesn't solve his problem.

"Aapko bura lagta hai main sir kehta hon toh?" 

"Nahi, Jai. Aisa nahi hai. Bas..." Hrithik doesn't know how to continue his thought, suddenly feels so silly. This boy loves him, adores him so much.

"Bas kya?" 

"Tumne mera naam lena chodh diya hai." It falls from his mouth just like that, shocking them both.

"Oh." Hrithik doesn't know what to do with this confession but now its out there so go all the way.

"I kind of miss that." Hrithik says softly and if its a cue, Jai blushes heavily and there is that dopey smile Hrithik loves so much.

"Sorry." 

"Pagal... sorry kyun bol rahe ho?" 

"It's just ke... thora odd lagta hai, aise jaise main school teacher hon aur tum..." oh boy. Hrithik tries to laugh it off.

"Aisa kuch nahi hai. Aap humesha se hi mere liye Hrithik ho aur humesha Hrithik hi rahoge." Oh the wonders it does to Hrithik's heart to hear his name twice in a single sentence and that too without sir, he feels light headed. Trying to control his excitement, Hrithik tries to play cool.

"Main Hrithik hi hon." Causing both of them to laugh. 

"Theek hai, Hrithik sir." Oh there we go again. Hrithik shakes his head.

"Phirse kaho." Jai looks at him in confusion.

"Hrithik sir?" Hrithik shakes his head.

"Sir hata ke bolo phirse." A few seconds silence but Hrithik waits.

"Hrithik." Jai's whole face is red and that die for smile on his face. Hrithik knows, this boy will be death of him. He finally nods affirmative.

"That's perfect. See, it wasn't hard."

"Mere liye toh tha." 

"Don't worry practice karte raho." He says with a wink and Jai's blush deepens which Hrithik didnt know was possible.

Chapter 7: Birthday Present

Summary:

 it’s Jai’s birthday (post War), and when Hrithik calls to wish him, Jai asks him for a present.

"Mera present kahan hai?"

Hrithik is bit surprised as Jai never asks for anything so he happily says “jo dil kare maang lo.”

Chapter Text

 it’s Jai’s birthday (post War), and when Hrithik calls to wish him, Jai asks him for a present.

"Mera present kahan hai?"

Hrithik is bit surprised as Jai never asks for anything so he happily says “jo dil kare maang lo.”

“Sach mein?” The excitement is so visible. Hrithik laughs and says yes, anything.

“Toh phir apni life ke sirf 24 hours mujhe deinde, sirf aap aur main.” Hrithik is taken aback by this. There is a bit of silence and Jai feels sad.

“Zayada maang liya na, sorry.”

“Okay.” Hrithik says and Jai suddenly feels so happy.

“Par karna kya hai?”

“Kuch bhi... kuch nahi... I mean... I just want to... spend time...” Jai doesn’t know how to say what he wants to say without spilling all of his feelings.

“Theek hai...”

Hrithik arranges to celebrate Jai’s birthday at his home with just two of them as he missed Jai’s Birthday celebrations.

So when Jai comes over for his birthday present and Hrithik still doesn’t know how to react to the fact what Jai wanted was to spend time together. It makes his heart go crazy in happiness yet also complicates his feelings but he had promised Jai so he does keep it.

Hrithik tries to bake cake for Jai, the one he likes, Red velvet, but obviously it burns and doesn’t turn out the way he wanted.

He is about to throw away but Jai comes in that moment. It doesn’t take him time to put 2 and 2 together. He stops Hrithik from throwing it away. Taking a knife he cuts a piece meanwhile Hrithik tries to stop him.

“Kya kar raha hai, Jai?”

Hrithik tries to stop him but Jai eats it with smile.

“Pagal hogaye ho?”

“Bphut hi mazay ka hai.” Jai says and Hrithik scoffs.

“Aapne itni mehnat se aur itne pyaar se banaya hai, main kaise na khata?” The look in Jai’s eyes, that smile, Hrithik doesn’t know whether to kiss him or shake him at his stupidity.

“Mat karo yah pagalpan, Jai.”

“Pagalpan nahi hai yeh... pyaar hai.” Hrithik goes into shock and Jai just smiles sadly at him.

They don’t talk about it any further and enjoy their time together. They workout, play games and the time almost flies by. Jai doesn’t sleep or tries to stay awake for as long as possible. Hrithik senses that and also doesn’t want to sleep, want bit more time with Jai.

This has been the most perfect day for Hrithik in a long time and seeing Jai so happy makes Hrithik feels good that he has managed to make Jai this happy. They spend time and watch movies, during the movie Jai falls asleep on Hrithik’s shoulder, so comfortable.

Chapter 8: Green Eyed Monster

Summary:

Hrithik and Jai never really got along during the shooting of War, contrary to their on screen chemistry. Jai had quickly realised working with his mentor, his crush, his inspiration wasn't as fun as he imagined.

Notes:

Sorry, not much beta'd. Another old prompt I had written years ago but never posted. This is for: Obscurebibilophile. Who had requested for Hrithik's jealousy. I hope you like it. :)

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Hrithik and Jai never really got along during the shooting of War, contrary to their on screen chemistry. Jai had quickly realised working with his mentor, his crush, his inspiration wasn't as fun as he imagined.

Hrithik was arrogant during filming of War, as he was the senior actor and Jai got hurt. Months after the release of War, Hrithik can't get Jai out of his mind. The way Jai handle all of it and the way Jai admires him has left a mark on him. 

It was one of those nights where attending a Bollywood party was just like giving attendance and leaving. But then, during the party they come face to face and Hrithik gets his usual highly drunk in some corner, it is then Jai who handles him, support him. He takes care of a drunken Hrithik and Hrithik in drunken state apologises to him tries to get friendly with him but Jai brushes it off. He is already quite hurt by Hrithik whom he considered his mentor. But Jai still takes care of him, makes sure he gets home safely before he leaves the party.

 

After this incident Hrithik starts to think about Jai more and more. He had an idea about about Jai’s admiration for him and he took advantage of it and now he is starting to regret it. 

 

They don’t come across again much to his dismay, it seems like when Jai decides to ignore you, he is good at it. Hrithik sees all over the Internet that Jai is spending more time with Disha and it makes Hrithik green with jealousy for some reason. It is then Hrithik realises that in past few months he wants Jai, he wants his attention once again, he wants his love again and he feels desperate for Jai. 

 

Hrithik had figured out Jai’s feelings for him during War but was busy with himself much than to pay attention to him. Despite Jai's effort to ignore him, it doesn't last long when they come face to face yet again at another party. Jai is there with Disha and Hrithik is there without a date because he only came to this party when he realised Jai will be there. 

 

Getting Jai's attention isn't hard once younger man sees Hrithik there and the way his eyes light up slightly makes Hrithik sure for what he wants. But it proves more difficult to keep that attention on him as Jai focuses more on Disha and actively staying clear of Hrithik’s sight.

 

Throughout the evening Hrithik tries so hard to keep Jai by his side, getting his attention, keep interrupting him but when it all fails, he makes another desperate attempt. As opportunity strikes he takes Jai to another room and locks the door. Hrithik knows Jai wants him and he badly wants Jai. So, how to achieve that? Simple. He tries to seduce Jai.

 

Jai almost loses his mind and actively believes Hrithik is either drunk or high and Hrithik can't blame him as his change of heart is recent and Jai isnt aware of these feelings. But this is why Hrithik is doing all this, Jai isn't willing to listen to Hrithik wants to show younger man what he wants. He knows somewhere his gifrl friend must be looking for him but Hrithik doesn't care in this moment. 

 

Sitting on the edge of bed like a predator, inviting, while watching Jai like hawk and he is enjoying it. Finally, him and Jai are alone and he has Jai’s full attention. 

 

 

This makes Jai so angry, so furious, the way Hrithik had been messing with him all these times. Where during War, he barely glanced towards him and since after the night he saved Hrithik from his drunken state, Hrithik had been nothing but giving him all attention. 

 

Jai snaps. He really snaps and decides to test Hrithik and revenge on him, in a swift he is in front of him, then a moment later he is on Hrithik’s lap and kisses him hard! Hrithik is taken aback but tries to respond but Jai takes full control. Hrithik’s hands move to touch him, hold him but Jai holds both of his hands tightly in his, not letting him touch Jai as he continues to kiss him hard and dirty. 

 

Hrithik is shocked by such force and dominance by Jai, its so unexpected but he is loving it and now he has tasted him, he can’t let Jai go. He tries to get control of his hands but each time he tries to touch him, Jai holds his hands to stop them, holding him a prisoner. 

 

Hrithik tries to reply his brutal kiss with softness, trying to slow him down and it works for a moment, he feels Jai’s hold on his hands go soft, so takes his hands out to hold on to Jai’s hands in his and puts on of his hand on his heart, it causes Jai to kiss him hard, slowly Hrithik moves his other hand and guides Jai’s hand from his chest to downwards until he places on his hard on and suddenly that breaks the trance and Jai suddenly breaks the kiss and in a swift he is up and away from Hrithik, leaving him half laying on bed, panting. 

 

“Ja...” 

 

“No. You did it okay? You played me, I snapped. This is what you wanted, right? There you go, you win.” With this he leaves the room without looking back and Hrithik is left there, shocked, hard and confused. 

Notes:

Part 2? Yay or nay? Let me know guys what you'll think, if there should be part 2 of it?

Chapter 9: Green Eyed Monster II

Summary:

That single kiss from Jai which Jai believes Hrithik's way to mess with his feelings has left Hrithik in utter mess. This encounter has changed his perception so much about Jai. He cannot get him out of his mind and that kiss is burned in his memory, he keeps replaying it over and over again and starts to miss Jai in a way he never did before. 

Notes:

So... this was another incomplete OS idea, left abandoned, so I have expanded and connected to the previous chapter 'Green Eyed Monster'

Chapter Text

That single kiss from Jai which Jai believes Hrithik's way to mess with his feelings has left Hrithik in utter mess. This encounter has changed his perception so much about Jai. He cannot get him out of his mind and that kiss is burned in his memory, he keeps replaying it over and over again and starts to miss Jai in a way he never did before. 

Now that he wants to see Jai, the younger actor has seem to gone underground or he has successfully managed to avoid appearing on Hrithik's radar. Hrithik feels absolutely mad over the fact that he cannot see Jai as he wants to, because he wants answers. He wants to know about Jai's feelings, he wants to know about the kiss - he wants to kiss him again and again. The revelation is not as shocking to him as he thought it would be. Maybe it is Jai who has evoke those feelings that's why it is not as shocking. Still, Hrithik almost trips while standing straight when the urge to kiss Jai and not stop hits him with such a strong force.  

There is a silence between them once again which goes for more longer than Hrithik liked and anticipated but when it happens - when they meet again, it changes everything. The award season begins and Hrithik knew that no matter what they had commitment to at least IIFA to make appearance especially since War's success. 

Hrithik is buzzing with excitement when he appears on Red Carpet of IIFA while simply dodging the question of his relationship status. When he is asked the question not surprisingly it is Jai's face that appears before his eyes. 

IJai sees Hrithik before he sees Jai and his heart is in mouth. All those feelings come surfacing and hit Jai hard. He missed Hrithik so much and now seeing him, it hurts, physically. That kiss, his breakdown later at night when is alone, it all comes back to his mind. Jai had the most difficult time trying to get Hrithik out of his mind and still he couldn't realising that it is futile to even try. 

What bothered him more was Hrithik still trying to reach out to him after that 'kiss'. Jai was most confident that he has ruined whatever they had or almost had because Hrithik was just playing with him, messing with his head and Jai snapped. Jai is still not ready to accept that how Hrithik had responded that night when Jai kissed him because for him it is not real, because never in million years it is a possibility that Hrithik can feel something for him. 

Hrithik's eye catches Jai the moment the young man is turning away, he tries to go behind him but is caught up by media and fans. It isn't just before the show was starting that Hrithik sees Jai in a restroom, he thinks to surprise him, slowly coming to his behind. It is when Hrithik comes closer and sees through the mirror that Jai has tears, not just some tears but a river is flowing and he is crying softly and Hrithik's heart sinks and breath is knocked out of him.

He quickly goes to Jai, startling him as he makes himself known to young man.

"Jai? Kya... kya howa? Tu theek hai?" His voice is filled with panic and concern causing Jai to startle before he tries to hide his face from one man he did not want him to see him like this.

Turning away he tries to wipe tears before trying to assure Hrithik.

"Haa..... aankh mein kuch chala gaya."

Hrithik of course doesn't believe and moves his hand to hold Jai's face to turn towards him and Jai bows his head as tears keep falling.

"Jai kya howa? Batao mujhe."

"Kuch... na...I am fi.." Jai tries to say but is unable to between his soft sobs and tears flowing. Hrithik's heart is sinking fast, these rapidly falling tears and Jai's shaking body is not a good sign. He pulls Jai towards him into hug where Jai literally falls onto him and holds him tightly like holding onto a dear life. Hrithik tries to remain calm as he tries to calm Jai down.

"Jai... kuch toh batao." But seems like that does the opposite, suddenly Jai breaks away from hug, turning away from him, wiping his eyes.

"Jai." Hrithik tries to hold onto him but Jai shies away from his touch and that stings him.

"Sorry... woh... maine... aankh mein.. I'm fine." Jai stumbles over his words as he tries to make a hasty exit leaving a stunned and worried Hrithik behind. Before Hrithik could react, stop him, Jai is already gone.

The award ceremony starts but Hrithik's mind keeps going back to Jai, he tries to look around and finds Jai's table just little further from his table and Disha is there with Jai. Instantly, Hrithik feels burning feeling in his heart seeing Disha next to Jai when he wants to be there with Jai. Hrithik's eye never leaves Jai throughout the awards. Once, it gets too much for him to handle especially when his whole body start to burn with jealousy, he makes his move. 

Hrithik goes to Jai's table (round table) where Disha is seated as well, Hrithik finds a seat next to Jai and sits there. Jai is shocked to say the least but he tries not to react. Although, Disha does reacts but at least she greets him cordially before placing a possessive hand over Jai's arm. Hrithik notices this but he is more focused except Jai and his tears, his swollen red eyes.

Jai tries to ignore Hrithik because he knows he will breakdown but Hrithik is adamant. He tries to hold Jai's hand to comfort him under the table but Jai moves away from his touch. Hrithik tries again to hold his hand and Jai fights him and this time Hrithik fights back and does not give up until he takes his hand and wraps his fingers around Jai's and placing it on Jai's thighs.

Jai tries to ignore it but somehow it makes him feel better and make him feel worse 10 times more. Hrithik sees tears pricking in his eyes. With his hand holding Jai's hand, using his finger he writes on Jai's thigh 'r u ok?'

Jai doesn't say anything, nor looks at him as Disha is distracting him so Hrithik moves their joined hands to his thigh and waits for it and finally he feels Jai's finger reluctantly tracing 'no.' And Hrithik's heart stops. In that moment he wants to forget everything and everyone and just take Jai in his arms and take care of him. It startles him how strongly he is being hit by things feelings when it comes to Jai.

Turns out these awards were special they decided to pay tribute to Hrithik to celebrate 20 years of his career and Jai is the one performing and giving tribute to him. So when it is announced and Jai appears on stage, Hrithik is shocked, devastated and wants nothing more than to snatch Jai from the world and just beg him to listen to him once.

He watches Jai in awe, shocked and with wrenching heart as he performs for Hrithik without letting his inner turmoil shown on his face but Hrithik can see it, he can feel it because Jai's tears and now brimming in Hrithik's eyes.

He is sliently awed and feels so undeserved when at the end of tribute Jai walks towards him as he sings his praises and still from the bottom of his heart and in that moment Hrithik knows how much Jai is in love with him.

Hrithik unable to hold the guilt and pain any longer, not caring about media or the world, he moves forward and hugs Jai tightly. Once Jai is secure in his arms Hrithik feels the heart break, the pain, the guilt and the love. He silently begs Jai to listen to him. Jai breaks the hug and their eyes meet and Hrithik's world stops yet again, the shattered look in Jai's eyes kills him.

Jai is more aware and first time more in control so he gives Hrithik the mic and gestures him to say stage is and he tries to leave but Hrithik holds his arm, shocking him and pulls him on the stage with him. All are bit stunned and most of all is Jai, not even able to voice his nervousness.

But as Hrithik takes the stage to thank everyone and his other friends join him on stage, Hrithik thanks them all and he then thanks Jai lastly surprising all. He says openly that Jai came into his life as a blessing (during War) and how much Jai also inspired him too and he wants to say so much more but Jai's pleading eyes stops him and his heart keeps beating so loudly he is afraid he'll die.

As he is wrapping up his acceptance speech, Karan as a host engage him bit more on stage during that time Jai has already gone backstage. Once Hrithik is free and is backstage he tries to look for Jai only to find out that Jai has gone home. He only made a commitment for this performance. And he didn't even ask for payment for it. 

Hrithik knows he needs to find Jai now and talk to him, he needs to talk to him and clear things with him. He leaves the awards show to go and see Jai at his place. On his way Hrithik's mind is running wild not sure how and what he will say. 

When he gets to Jai's home Hrithik finds Jai in tears and absolutely numb. Hrithik desperately tries to talk to Jai, to try and explain to him but when Jai looks at him with haunting look in his eyes. 

"Sorry." The first words out of Jai's mouth and Hrithik shakes his hand. 

"Jai please, meri baat sun."

"Maine aapko bohut hurt kiya hai, meri wajah se aapko taqleef hoyi. Main kabhi aapke raaste meim nahi ana chahta. Main ab nahi ayonga, aap fikar mat karo aajse main aapko tang nahi karonga." And Hrithik actually sobs at this, wants nothing more than to explain to him this isn't what he wants.

Jai has gotten all wrong and Hrithik's heart hurts so much at this. He wants to tell Jai that he is wrong that it's not like that. Hrithik is at fault, Jai's feelings were never inconvenience for him in fact, Hrithik was too arrogant, he dismissed Jai's feelings. 

Hrithik's pleas, his words does not make it to Jai and Hrithik cannot deal with Jai being like this, he cannot take Jai being in this pain and he is the cause. In desperation he pulls Jai into a heartbreaking kiss to convey his sorry. Jai, first is shocked and when he comes to his senses he pushes Hrithik away slightly and looks at him. Between tears, confusion and pain Hrithik tries to pull him into another kiss but Jai pushes him away. 

"Please, no." The way Jai's voice breaks as he utters these words, Hrithik stops dead in his tracks. 

"I can't... phir se nahi."

"Jai."

"Aapke saath jo waqt guzra, jo bhi... I'll always cherish it but please, this cannot go on. I'm going mad, sir. I'm losing my sanity, bit by bit. Please. I cannot take more heartbreak. Please." Jai folds his hands and Hrithik bows his head and quietly leaves from there with tears in his eyes and heartache.   

Communication between them stops, completely stops. Jai stops calling him, he just stops, keep everything professional. He doesn't see Jai for sometime and that makes him realise how much he wants Jai in his life. But in what capacity? That's the big and burning question. Jai's feelings for him has been crystal clear while Hrithik has been feeling more than friendly feelings for Jai, it takes him time to accept that those feelings has started to get deep. 

They meet again, months later at party at Hrithik's place, seeing Jai there and him not approaching Hrithik but being cordial with him breaks his heart. 

As the party comes almost to an end and thought of Jai leaving makes Hrithik have a breakdown. He feels like he has lost Jai and he goes into panic attack. Jai sees Hrithik panicking and he helps him take into a quiet room and helps Hrithik calms down. Jai is about go call for help but Hrithik holds his hand and begs Jai not to go.

"Mat jao please, mat jana."

"Main... main yahin hon. Relax." Jai tries to calm Hrithik who is holding Jai like a lifeline.

"Mat jana, kahin mat jana."

"Im not going." Jai assures.

"Par tum door chale gaye thay." Hrithik says behind his sob, jai feels helpless.

"Mujhe laga aap yehi chahte ho." Hrithik shakes his head regretfully. He holds Jai from back of his neck and bring their foreheads together.

"Aisa nahi hai. Aisa kabhi nahi tha. Jai..." Hrithik looks into his eyes through his tears.

"I love you, Jai. I really do." Jai shakes his head tries to move away feeling too much.

"I do. Mere liye tum kya ho main lafzon mein nahi bayaan kar sakta. I am so sorry, Jai. Par main kya karon. Tum, tumhara dil... main, I just can't not love you." Holding Jai's hand his brings it to his heart.

"Yeh dil tumhara hai, Jai. Meri rooh bhi tumhari hai."

Jai looks at Hrithik in surprise and tears as he feels Hrithik's heart beating fast under his touch.

"Jai... par esay zayada main tumhe kuch nahi de sakta. Im so sorry." He sobs regretfully and Jai tries to calm him down.

"Main... meri zindagi meri nahi hai. Mere bacche, yeh ghar... main... I can't give you more than this. I am sorry. Kaash ke yeh duniya, yeh waqt aur hota, main aur tum kisi aur dunya mein milte toh main tumhe kabhi bhi apne aap se alag nahi karta." Jai us crying softly as he holds Hrithik who is completely breakdown. Hrithik looks at Jai with pure passion and holds him tightly.

"Mere bas mein nahi hai warna tumhe bataon ke mere liye tum kiya ho. Tumhe itna pyaar karna chahta hon, es duniya se, sab se tumhe chuppa lon, apne andar sama lon. Tumhe aise jakadh lon apne pyaar mein ke kahin na jaa pao." He says with so much passion that even Jai is taken aback slightly and his heart almost gives out.

"Par main aisa nahi kar sakta." Jai's expressions break Hrithik's heart so much, wrenching out another sob out of him.

"Jai... mere dad ne mujhe kabhi woh freedom nahi di, na woh himmat aur tauqat... main bohut kamzoor hon, majboor hon. I need to be there for my kids like my dad never was."

"I'm sorry." Hrithik keeps repeating between his cries and Jai tries to be strong for him. It has been too much for him to process. Once Hrithik is bit calm they both stay locked in each other's arms.

"Jai... tumhare aagay puri life hai, career hai. Uspe apna focus karo, apni life banao. Tumhe aur bhi..."

"Nahi." A slow and firm no from Jai and clear in his eyes too, a no even a thought of Jai loving anyone else.

"Jai..."

"I understand. Main aapki baatein, samajh raha hon. Par... aapke ilawa aur koi nahi." The firmness in his words make Hrithik feel so blessed yet so helpless as well.

Their foreheads connect yet again as they silently shed tears over what it could have been and what it is.

"Why does it hurt so much? Why it feels like an end." Jai whispers and Hrithik holds him tighter.

"It's not an end."

"Yet it feels like I have just lost a piece of me." Hrithik doesn't answer but more tears fall from his eyes as he pulls Jai for a tight hug. They stay like that for sometime, crying over the loss of what they didn't even had in the first place. 

Chapter 10: Noor

Summary:

Jai adopts a baby girl who he found abandoned on side of road.

Notes:

TW: Thoughts of suicide, abandoned child.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Jai’s life is a mess. He’s stuck in a false relationship and now being blackmailed into it, he is madly in love with Hrithik who doesn’t see it but only sees a fanboy in him. Jai is gay but has to live in a cover up because of his career. The career, only good thing in his life yet recently that has been a burden too. He is tired of living in a falsehood. There has been many times when he thought of easy way out, ending it but never took the step. Tonight as well, he is in that mood and wants to end it all, roaming around in the streets in darkness.

He is lost in his mind when he hears the cries of a baby, shockingly he looks around but finds nothing, then he hears closer and finds the crying coming from a dumpster. He runs towards it and is absolutely shook to find a small baby girl, a month old maybe in there. Jai’s senses stop to work but he manages to pick up the baby.

Not knowing what else to do Jai brings back the baby with him to his home not knowing the storm it’ll bring to his home. Family is shocked to see Jai with the baby but first they take care of the baby. Ayesha helps bath the baby and fedd her as Jai tells the family where he found it. They decide to file the complain but Jai says they can do that later. Few days passes as Jai take cares of the baby and still not know what to call her but he starts to become attach to her. Jai spends most of time taking care of her and hell break lose after the police and then Ayesha (mum) says she knows a good orphanage where they can send. Jai’s resolves break and that’s when he says no.

 

“Jai, yehi eske liye sahi hai. Wahan koi esay adopt karlega.”

 

“Agar adopt hi karna hai toh bhejna kyun? Main adopt karonga usay, apna naam donga.” He shocks entire family with this causing a huge breakdown in their home.

 

The family tries to explain to Jai how it is not practical but Jai is adamant on it. He is so attached to the baby and isn’t ready to part with her. He can’t tell them that yet how it was her who saved him that night not vice versa. Krishna seeing her brother melts and takes Jai’s side but their mum is not willing to listen, saying they don’t know whose bad blood is this and that causes Jai to almost lose it at his mother. Jackie realises then, it was decided, Jai will not let go of her. But it wasn’t going to be an easy path.

 

Meanwhile, Disha finds out about this accidentally when she visits Jai after he didn’t see her or was talking to her. She is shell shocked too at this and tries to explain to Jai.

 

“I don’t want to hear a word, yeh bacchi ab meri hai, main adopt kar raha hon esay.”

 

Disha tells Jai to think about it. She says if he chooses the baby, she is out of there but she will deag Jai down with her.

 

Jai had already been talking to lawyers despite having this issue at home, papers were almost getting ready, the process was happening.

 

The more time Jai spent with her the more he stopped caring about the world. He has set up baby’s cot and nursery in his room, Krishna had gone for baby shopping and brought necessary things. Hai has been feeding her, bathing her, sleep with her, wakes up with her throughout the night.

 

The baby is used to Jai now more than others, she goes to Krishna for a while but always with Jai.

 

Jai had been thinking about the names since the first night and didn’t even realised that. After this another hectic day with family, Jai sits down with the baby as he feeds her.  He looks at her closely, her face, eyes features and it breaks his heart to think what had happened. Her face was gaining colour again.

Everytime she looks at him his heart skips a beat and he knows second time in life he has fallen madly in love and this time, he will fight for this love even if he has to fight the entire world.

Just seeing her safe makes Jai feel so happy, he can’t stop smiling and it doesn’t escape his family.

 

“Pata hai tum meri zindagi mein nayi roshni lekar ayi ho, aik nayi umeed ban kar. Thank you.” His eyes fill with tears yet again as she plays looks at him while he feeds her and thats when it hits him. She is his Roshni, his Noor.

 

“Noor.” He utters in awe and can see a hint of a smile from her.

 

“Meri Noor.” He whispers again and it all fits. He just named his baby, she is his Noor.

During next few days, the adoption process is almost complete and he tells his family and Jai says if Noor can't be part of family then he wouldn't either. Jackie sits them all down and explains mum how happy Jai has been since Noor and maybe she is the blessing they needed for Jai. She is worried about Jai and his career and image and Jai talks to his mum tries to explain that he didn't choose Noor, she chose him and he can feel himself becoming a father and tries to show her how she feels protected towards him, he feels for Noor. She finally sees Jai's point and family comes to terms with it and Jai signs the papers.

 

Disha is furious and she comes to threaten Jai, to expose him and drag his family name through mud. That does it and Jai's patience are done. He threatens her and low and dangerous tone if she does that, he will drag her down exposing her secrets that she had been taking money from Jai for being his cover and also all her exploitations. Disha is shell shocked.

Jai decides to do a video announcements on social media and gets on with it without discussing with anyone.

 

“Hi. I... main aaj aap sabke saath aik bohut personal experience share karna chahta hon, jisne meri life humesha ke liye badal di.

Aisa kyun hota hai ke beta hone par itni khushiyaan manate hain aur beti ko bujh samajh kar phenk... dete hain...” His eyes moist at recalling the moment.

 

“Kuch waqt pehle main aise hi guzar raha tha jab aik nanhni si zindagi mujhe mili. Woh bhi adh mari halat mein kisi pathar dil ne usay raste par phenk diya tha.” Tear rolls down his eye.

 

“Koi aisa kaise kar sakta hai? Reham nahi ata, tars zara bhi nahi aya? Maine...”

 

“I took her with me home. Police mein file ki par kuch nahi howa aur phir teh howa ke orphanage eska muqadar hai. Par jabse maine usay uthaya apni godh mein, main kuch aur soch hi nahi paya. Shayad pehle hi din teh hogaya tha... guys, I want you to meet – Noor Tiger Shroff.”

He moves away and when he comes back in front of camera, he is holding Noor in his arms and tears in his eyes.

 

“Yeh Noor hai, meri beti. I have officially adopted her. Yaan youn kahon ke shayad Noor ne mujhe adopt karliya hai. I know it will be difficult but I cannot wait to start our lives. I know aap sab ke paas bohut sawal honge, par meri request hai ke please mujhe aur Noor ko humari zindagi start karne mein aap sab support karein. I need some time, privacy and support. I hope ke main Noor ke liye aik acha Papa ban paon.” Tears fall from his eyes as he places a soft kiss on Noor's forehead.

“We are embarking on a new journey and please bless us.” Jai’s eyes never leave Noor as he addresses everyone out there hoping they all love her too. She deserves all the love of the world.

 

“I’ll love you the most, Noor. I will never leave your side.” He promises her, sealing with a kiss. Before ending the video he makes another announcement.

 

“I know that the responsibility of being a parent is huge and I am going to do my best to do it right. But I cannot ask someone to share this with me right now. This is why Disha and I have parted ways mutually. I wanted to share both news with you all personally.” With this he thanks his fans and ends the video and posts it on Insta and Twitter and within minutes its all chaos.

 

As soon he puts it live, its chaos. “Are you insane?” His mum’s freaks out but Jackie remains calm, he knew this will happen. Since Noor came into their lives, there is a change in Jai and Jackie feels somehow this is for the best.

 

His phone goes mad with notifications, calls, messages but Jai turns his phone off and takes Noor in his arms and lays down to sleep.

 

“Aaj ke liye bohut hogaya, ab rest. World will be burning tomorrow too.” He smiles at Noor who manages to smile at him, already sleepy. Both father and daughter go to sleep and let the chaos happen.

 

The world is shook with Jai’s video, whereas overwhelming response from his colleagues and fans, another part of NGOs, feminists also take over talking about injustice happening, killing daughters at birth and then there are people who were looking for spice and try to exploit this situation and controversy over this.

 

Disha is in shock as she sees the announcement feeling conflicted if she tries to take Jai down it will only drag her down. If she denies it she’ll be seen in a bad light. Finally it feels like Jai has cornered her, she feels defeated, knowing this is truly the end. Where her world is turned upside down there is another person whose life goes still as he hears the video.

 

Hrithik was surprised to see Jai’s video when his notification appeared, he thought it must be movie related but is surprised to see Jai live, wanting to share some news.

 

As the video proceeds, Hrithik goes through various emotions but what really pulls rug under his feet when Jai announces his daughter – Noor.

 

Jai just adopted a baby! He just became a dad! Jai... his Jai.. he just... Hrithik is in shock to say the least. When he sees Jai’s tears, how his face lits up as he talks about Noor, takes to Noor. Hrithik feels he is in other dimension. Seeing this, brave Jai really takes him by surprise.

And it doesn’t end there, the last announcement of his break up. Hrithik can’t wrap his head around it. How did Disha even let Jai go so easily? He knows there is no way she would have done this mutually.

 

But he focuses on the fact, Jai just adopted a child! He sits there shocked, happy, surprised, bit angry and tears in his eyes. Only Jai... only he would do something like this.

 

As soon he comes out of shock he just first thing he can think of, call Jai. He tries many times but Jai’s phone is switched off. Considerably, after such announcement, there would be chaos. The online world has surely gone into chaos. The news are picking up, the debates already started. The support and love is pouring in and of course, the hate section is also there, calling it nothing but a publicity stunt and that makes Hrithik’s blood boil.

 

He tries to message Jai but decides against it. He needs to see him asap. He thinks of going to see him in morning but then he remembers Jai asking for privacy.

Hrithik sighs and just sits there not knowing what to do, he is still trying to process the fact Jai just adopted a kid.

 

The new morning and a new beginning would seem fitting until Jai turns on his phone. Basically, world is still there, not burnt, he has gotten overwhelming love and everything else that comes with it. The calls, the messages... Jai is overwhelmed but not ready to face it yet. Though one particular news catches his eye, his dad went on record to support Jai and Noor while asking media for privacy in their family matter. His heart blooms at this, he sends a thank you message to his dad.

 

Noor is wakes up demanding for his attention and Jai happily shuts off rest of world as he goes back to her. He feeds her, baths her and plays with her when his manager comes to his apartment guns blazing.

 

“Are you out of your f...”

 

“Hey, no swearing, I’ve a kid.” His manager gawks at him before she continues to scold him for his stunt.

 

“Tiger why did you do this? We could have planned it. We could have spin the story better.”

 

“My daughter is NOT a story. And don’t tell me what I can & can’t do.”

 

His manager is surprised at sudden behaviour she tries talk about Disha but Tiger isn’t in mood. Thankfully he is saved by Krishna coming over to help him with Noor.

 

He asks about mum and dad, she tells him mum is hysterical but dad is managing her. He smiles knowing his dad is a real charmer, feels blessed to have dad like him. That makes him think and hope he can be a good dad to Noor.

 

“You will be.”

 

“Hm?”

 

“The best dad, Noor can have ever have.” Jai hopes it can be true.

“ Have you checked social media?”

 

“Not all but enough.”

 

“It’ll be okay.” He hopes so.

Next few days flies by as he tries to sort out all media attention, getting back to his colleagues. One bad thing happens that he loses a potential character due to producer not wanting a father doing this role. It got him quite angry but he let go vowing not to work with the small minded people. Losing doesn’t seem to matter to him when he has Noor on his side. He starts talking to her, sharing everything with her and she would just listen and Jai feels she can understand him.

Jai is playing with Noor as this is favourite part of the day now, play with her when his phone rings.

 

“Sorry, Noor, baba gotta take this.” Noor makes out a noise like a whine and Jai knows she isnt happy, she is catching on quickly when Jai’s full attention to her and when it isn’t.

 

“Ill be quick.” He says as he picks up the phone without seeing who is calling as his eyes are still on Noor.

 

“Hello?” There is a slight silence before other person speaks up.

 

“Congratulations on being a father, Jai.” Jai’s heart almost stops. Hrithik. In all midst of this, he completely forgot about him and this is the first time in his life he forgot about Hrithik.

 

“Aa..p.. thank you so much.” Jai replies suddenly feeling anxious.

 

“I wanted to call since I saw the video but... socha tumhe thora time chahiye, isi liye.” How does this man knows Jai so well?

“Thank you, Hrithik sir. Aap kaise hain?”

 

“Meri chodho, tum batao kaise ho? How is Noor?” Jai can’t help but to smile hearing Hrithik saying Noor.

 

“Acchi hai, khel rahi hai abhi. In fact aise lah raha hai ke shayad gussa kar rahi hai. Does babies understand alot?” This makes Hrithik’s heart melt and he smiles.

 

“Trust me Jai, babies understand a lot! Tang toh nahi karti zayada?”

 

“Nahi, bilkul bhi nahi. In facr humari bohut achi dosti hogayi hai.” There is a short silence where Hrithik can hear Jai still playing with her, his attention more towards her and it makes him feel bit weird.

 

“So... tumhari family... I mean,  sab..”

 

“Haan, Krishna and Dad ne bohut help ki. Shuru mein mushkil tha but its all coming around now. And mum.. you know how she is... waqt lagega but she’ll be okay.”

 

“Yep.. don’t worry, Jai. It’ll be okay.” Jai smiles at this, feeling better to hear it from Hrithik.

 

“Aik baat puchon?”

 

“Haan, sure.”

 

“Is it always this scary? Being a parent?”

“Yes, it is.”

 

“Does it go away?” Hrithik laughs as he says no, never.

 

“I mean... maine Noor ko adopt kar liya hai par darr lag raha hai... what if I fail? What if I can’t be who she wants.” Suddenly Hrithik hears panic and fear in Jai’s voice and it breakd his heart.

 

“Hey, hey.. Jai. Stop. It will be fine, it will all work out. Just see. You got this figured it out you will figure out the rest too. And I know Noor has what she needs more than anything... you.” And this makes Jai feel much better, this is what he needed, a support, a friend.

 

“Thank you.” He says softly causing Hrithik’s heart to melt. Before it can continue Noor whines more and Jai knows he needs to get back to her.

 

“It’s okay, she needs you.” Hrithik saves Jai once again. Hrithik then says something that brings tears into his eyes.

 

“Jai...”

 

“Ji?”

 

“I’m so proud of you.” And there, Jai cries silently the weight of this words finally lifts any doubts or burdens he had.

 

Noor notices tears in Jai’s eyes and maybe Hrithik was right because Noor suddenly cries and Jai, drops the phone, hanging up and picks her up and tries to rock her but it is his smile that does the trick and he watches this astonishingly realising maybe Noor cried because he was emotional. His heart almost gives out.

He doesn’t realise that the phone he dropped thinking he hung up, it wasn’t hung up in fact Hrithik was still connected on the other side. He was going to hang up but then he listens Jai tries to calm Noor down and for some reason he can’t help but to stay on line, thinking in case Jai needs him.

 

But then he hears his name and ends up listening Jai talking to Noor about him and that leaves him baffled once again.

 

“Baba is the happiest and luckiest, Noor. Because I have you.. these are happy tears. Hrithik ne kaha toh ankhon mein...” he stops and looks at Noor who is watching him attentively.

 

“Bataonga.. unke baare mein bhi sab bataonga. Woh mere liye bohut important hain. Meri zindagi mein.. mere dil. Par ab toh aap ho, aapse important koi nahi hoga.” He tells her.

 

And this is when Hrithik thinks he shouldn’t be listening because he is invading their privacy hangs up with shaky hands but is unable to shake off Jai’s words.

Hrithik is lost in Jai’s thoughts long after he hangs up. He is trying to process all this and today, talking to Jai, it was so different and weird. He seemed same and changed at once. Hrithik doesn’t know why he feels so happy yet so sad either. He can’t explain why but he feels a pang of loss, almost if he has lost Jai? But this is insane. He doesn’t know why he is thinking that.

 

Yet, Jai’s words still leave him feeling tingling inside ‘woh mere liye bohut important hain, meri zindagi mein... mere dil..’ Hrithik doesn’t know what to think about this, he knows Jai’s admiration for him, maybe that’s what he means right? Yet, why does it feel more personal than that?

Later Shroff family gathers once again and his mum is miffed at Jai for his stunt and it hurts Jai because she is more worried about how it'll affect his career more and yes, Jai knows this, especially losing a film already but it doesn't matter because his life has a purpose now - Noor.

 

Jai knows he cannot tell them how Noor saved his life that night and how close he was to giving up and since Noor came into his life, things are looking up for him. He does feel more happy, grounded. Jackie sits down with Jai and tells him not to worry too much, it'll take her time to come around but eventually she will.

 

Jai thanks his dad for his support and Jackie tells him he is really proud of what Jai has down and Jai once again feels emotional.

 

Jai’s routine messes up a lot with Noor in picture now, his sleeping pattern matches Noor, or more likely he gets some sleep when Noor allows him to sleep. And Noor has become so attached to him that if she doesn’t see Jai for a bit, she’ll start crying and he will have to rock her, play with her to pacify her.

 

His room becomes Noor’s room with mess all around and he is getting barely a moment to himself with so much of his work pending.

 

His mother suggests a Nanny but Jai refuses it. Maybe at one point he’ll need a Nanny but not now. Krishna notices a hint of jealousy in Jai’s eyes when Nanny is mentioned, someone is getting possessive.

 

“Jai, aise chalega toh tum kaise kaam karoge? Ghar dekho mess howa hai, apna haal dekho, dark circles hogaye hain.”

 

“Mum please.”

 

“Kya please, sahi toh keh rahi hon, abhi toh break thi, par tumhari training start hone wali hai, movie shooting start honi hai, tab kya karoge?”

 

“Tab ki tab dekheinge.”

 

“Jai...”

“Maine Noor ko es liye adopt nahi kiya ke usko Nanny ke paas de don. She is my responsibility and I’ll handle it.”

 

“Mum, he is right.” Krishna comes to his rescue and Jai is thankful for his baby sister.

 

“Aur hum hain na... Noor sirf Jai ki nahi ab humari hai. We will deal with everything together.” Krishna assures Jai and he is so thankful to her and their mother also goes quiet knowing she is losing battle to her kids.

When it is time for Jai to finally get started on work for his next movie, all were worried how he will manage Noor and Jai found the perfect solution. Taking Noor with him almost everywhere. For his family it wasn't ideal but for Jai it was ideal. He also had arranged for help for Noor, a part time, care taker but he was with Noor most of the time.

 

When first time he went to discuss his next project, for movie table read, all were shocked to see Noor strapped to Jai's stomach as he comes with Noor and a baby bag on his other shoulder. That was such a sight to see and made everyone's heart melts.

Also in last few months since Noor’s announcement Jai’s insta changed so dramatically where it used to be about his movies and stunts and now most keeps filling with Noor, him and Noor and suddenly Jai is the newest cutest Papa in the town.

 

Jai starts preparing for the movie, firstly he has to work long hours at gym and he can’t stay parted from Noor for long so most times he bring her with him and keep Noor where she is safe and making sure Noor can see him. Because it’s her new trait, if she doesn’t see Jai for long, she will start crying until she sees Jai.

 

Her mum warned him that Noor will become clingy and its not good but little did she knew that Jai was becoming more clingy to her. So it wasn’t possible to keep Father-Daughter away for long.

 

The nanny is there when Jai is out with Noor working so if Jai is working and Noor is with him at least nanny can take care of Noor. But when they are at home, Jai does everything for Noor.

Notes:

Another half written/half cooked OS from my notepad. I debated a lot of times whether to post it or not but today I just wanted to post it. Maybe, Ill write another chapter on it but maybe... but I am happy with this so far.

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