The episode opens with Lakshmi asking Neelam if she would permit Ayush and Shalu’s marriage, should Shalu choose to marry him. Neelam firmly rejects the idea. This response prompts Lakshmi to recall Shalu’s earlier fears about Neelam’s disapproval of their relationship. She tells Neelam that Shalu’s concerns are valid. Neelam concedes that if Shalu fears it, then her worry is indeed justified, and makes a pointed remark about it.
Lakshmi presses Neelam on why she won’t allow Ayush and Shalu to be together, highlighting the difficulty of finding true love. Neelam responds with hostility, expressing her disdain for Lakshmi and accusing her of abandoning their family when they were in need, only to return to Rishi when there was no hope left. Neelam demands to know why Lakshmi keeps coming back into Rishi’s life, to which Lakshmi replies that she is there because Rishi wants her. She insists that Rishi loves her deeply, making a notable comment as she speaks.
Neelam counters by pointing out that Rishi and Malishka are expecting a child, stirring an emotional reaction from Lakshmi. At this moment, Karishma interjects, advising Lakshmi that men often say anything to achieve their desires, adding her own comment. Kiran joins the conversation, claiming Rishi’s words to Lakshmi are lies. Lakshmi, however, defends herself, stating she is not naïve and can tell when Rishi is being genuine. With confidence, she asserts that Rishi truly loves her. She prepares to leave, but Neelam halts her and poses a surprising question about her desire for Ayush and Shalu to marry.
Neelam then lays down a condition: she will agree to their marriage only if Lakshmi cuts all ties with Rishi. After stating her requirement, Neelam, along with Karishma and Kiran, exits the scene.
Meanwhile, Aanchal approaches Rishi, seeking confirmation regarding troubling news she has heard. She questions how the doctors could make such a grave mistake. Rishi explains to her that complications from surgery have put Ayush in critical condition. Karishma and Neelam eavesdrop on their conversation, becoming increasingly worried about Ayush’s fate, while Rishi attempts to reassure them.
Karishma confronts the doctor, demanding to know how such an error could happen during surgery. The doctor clarifies that there was no mistake; the knife penetrated too deeply, causing internal bleeding. He requests permission to proceed with treatment to save Ayush’s life before departing.
Later, Karishma recalls the incident when Ayush was stabbed while trying to protect Shalu and directs her anger at her, holding her responsible for Ayush’s current condition. Rishi tries to step in and diffuse the situation, but Neelam and Aanchal also side with Karishma, adding their criticism towards Shalu. Overwhelmed by guilt, Shalu acknowledges her mistake and offers a heartfelt apology to Karishma.