CHAPTER – 14
Abhyansh held her hand and soon another tear escaped followed by another one. Isha quickly wiped his eyes, she started crying and he took her in his arms chuckling at his sensitive wife.
"I was just saying for fun, you really cried", Isha complained, Abhyansh softly wiped her tears and calmed her... Those three tear drops from his eyes acted as three daggers in her heart. Her husband had never cried despite all that he faced, and that made his tears even more precious.
"I'm just happy, and grateful... you only got pain from me, but you always returned it with love, even more love...", he said, and she could feel euphoria at the same time regret in his tone.
"Ansh... We are gonna be parents... and I just want you to be happy hearing this... Regrets have their own time", She said cupping his cheek, she just wants him to enjoy this moment without any regrets washing over, but who would tell her that not a single second in his life would pass without him regretting his past deeds. If anyone would ask him now about the greatest pain in the world, he would say 'guilt' without a pause.
"I am very happy Isha... I have dreamed of having kids with you... But I always had doubts if you would want to carry my children... The things I have done to you are inhumane", he said and she gasped at his confession.
"Rana sa... Why would you think so... I would be glad that you chose me as the mother of your kids, your past deeds don't define the new 'you'. They define the man you were, not what you are now. You changed, so much that no one could believe a man could change so much for the woman he loved", Isha said cupping his cheek...
"I'll keep trying to become the man you deserve, till my last breath, because you deserve the best", he said and she smiled.
"And you are the best, okay let's not talk about this anymore, all this discussion sounds so cringe already, anyways it's not like I can change my fate now, I am stuck with you", she joked earning a glare from him... God he and his possessiveness, she rolled her eyes at it.
"Let's go, see a doctor...", he said and her playful demeanor vanished, now he would know that she had hidden this from him all this time. "that explains all these changes, your increased appetite, weight gain and...", Abhyansh trailed but he suddenly realized how Ranveer was treating her with caution, when he went to tell them the truth... "When did you know about it ?", Abhyansh asked coldly...
"Rana sa... We'll talk in our chamber, let's go, for now", Isha said, Abhyansh nodded hearing the slight tremble in her tone, they both took mahadev's blessings once again before walking out... Abhyansh held her palm while they walked through the alley. He looked visibly upset at the fact that the Rajput siblings hid this truth from him, he was the father, he should be the first one to be informed, it's his right, he was furious about it but he didn't react impulsively or questioned his wife, he kept his temper in check like always when he is in front of her.
No one imagined his anger could ever be tamed, it's like walking on eggshells around him for everyone but he changed himself for her, he learned to control his temper, it was the most difficult task for him, but he did. The moment he realized she suffered one of the worst panic attacks because of his anger, he was scared even to open his mouth in anger.
"What did the doctor say ? Everything is fine with you and the baby right ?", he asked her after they entered their chamber and made her sit on the couch comfortably. He knew she must have gone to the doctor, her expression when he asked her to come for a checkup said it all.
"Yes, everything is fine, she asked me to come for an ultrasound between 6-7 weeks... and I thought of going with you...", Isha said
"Oh! how far along are you ?", he asked her and she looked here and there, she was hell scared of him, she knew he was controlling his temper and she feared his bubble will burst out hearing her answer. She didn't say anything, just showed with her fingers and his eyes narrowed at her audacity. "8 weeks? Why are you telling me now ? You could have directly entered the palace with my child", he said sarcastically... He is angry, and upset but couldn't even show it on her...
"Rana sa... I'm sorry", she said holding his palm but he jerked it softly... tears welled up in her eyes but she controlled herself cursing her damn hormones... "I wanted you to be the first person to know about it, but like always situations played with us... I wanted an environment free from hate, secrets, and disharmony for my kids and for that knowing the truth is very crucial. Tell me one thing, would you have told me the truth if I revealed about my pregnancy ?", Isha questioned him...
Hearing her tone, he understood she was upset and about to cry, he instantly took her in his arms.
"I'm sorry, that I didn't give you enough confidence to come and tell me... Rani sa... You are right, I wouldn't have told you the truth, but that's because I don't want the past to affect you in any way", he said cupping her face... "Are you okay ?", he asked, he was worried for her health now that she knew the past, she nodded softly answering his question.
"You don't know how badly I wanted to share it with you... I'm sorry Rana sa...", Isha said, tears slipping from her eyes but he wiped them immediately...
"No bacha... Don't cry... It's not your fault. It's mine that I have not tried to solve all this before... I'm sorry that you have to deal with these complicated situations... When did you get to know ?", he asked her after a pause, slowly ruffling her hair...
"The day I visited the obstetrician with bhai...", she replied meekly... Abhyansh found his temper returning... The Rajput siblings were hiding this from him for so long ? and Dr. Parthasarathy ? He too played along... Isha felt his muscles tensed and his palms fisting to control his anger, she knew he might be very angry with Dr. Parthasarathy and she is responsible to protect him like she promised... "It was me who convinced Dr. Parthasarathy, I kind of made a deal, that if he helped us hide my pregnancy, I will disclose my past that I was hiding, and as a doctor, he wanted the best for his patient", Isha said and Abhyansh closed his eyes calming down his fury... He can't burst out on his wife for playing him... No, he can't... He kept chanting to himself until he calmed down...
"So, you revealed the truth completely to him ?", Abhyansh asked and Isha frowned...
"I did... Didn't he tell you ? I thought you both must have discussed about my progress and that's what prompted you to disclose the past to me", Isha expressed her concerns...
"No, he did not tell me all this, he just told me you are now more than ready to face the truth", Abhyansh said with displeasure...
"Why didn't Dr. Parthasarathy detail you about my progress ?", Isha wondered...
"Well, this could only be answered by him...", Abhyansh said, he tried to hide his fury but it wasn't hidden from her... Isha took his palm and kept on her stomach as diverting him is the best way to calm him for now...
"Doctor said It could be a multiple pregnancy...", she said surprising him... she thought he would be happy but worry marred his face...
"Will you be fine ? Pregnancy is very difficult bacha, and multiple pregnancy is even more difficult, I saw your mother-in-law during Avyan and Advaita...", Abhyansh trailed, even taking his sister's name pained him... he could never forget the torture she went through in front of his eyes... he shook his head not to think about it for now. She rubbed his palm understanding his emotions...
"I know it will be tough but I have you with me... It will pass... We'll be fine... Trust me...", Isha said and Abhyansh pulled her to him gently hiding her in his arms...
"I'm sorry you have to go through so much pain for me... You are the strongest and I am so proud of you", Abhyansh said kissing her forehead, he gave her a small smile but she could still feel his worry...
"Rana sa... When shall we go for the ultrasound ?", she asked him softly...
"Today... In fact right now... Let's dress you up in something comfortable, and we can leave...", he said getting up but she held his palm and made him sit beside her again...
"Just a few minutes... I want to sit here with you...", she said leaning her head on his bare chest which was just covered by his red shawl... "Are you still upset ?", she asked him after a few minutes...
"Shouldn't I be ?", he asked her in return...
"I understand your emotions Rana sa... but I...", she is about to explain but he stopped her...
"Sh... You don't have to explain anything... Yes, I'm upset but I don't blame you, I understand you and I accept it's my fault that I...", he started but she cut him off angrily...
"Listen to me first... I'm explaining to you because you deserve it... You are right to be upset, you are the father and you should know about my pregnancy before anyone, but I know you wouldn't tell me the past if you get to know about it, and with the unknown past, my mental health would have gone for a toss and all this would have affected our child/children, and eventually it would affect you, so, I had to make a tough choice...", she said in a breath and he looked at her amused...
"I know all this bacha...", he answered and she glared at him...
"Do you love getting kicked out of our chamber ?", she asked glaring at him, he shook his head instantly... "Then stay put and go change...", she said avoiding looking at his bare chest...
"Your mood swings started too early huh...", he whispered near her ear softly licking the lobe... she fisted his shawl unable to control her hormones... He pecked her lips and got up to change...
"Abhyansh...", she yelled for leaving her like that, he chuckled and went to the closet to change and she followed him... He was just about to pull off his shawl when she entered the closet, and he quickly covered himself back... If at all his wife notices the wound on his back, she would be emotionally very disturbed and he wouldn't want her to go through the distress now... She frowned at his quick actions...
"What's wrong ?", she asked noticing his quick pullback of his shawl...
"Nothing... Let me help you change first, then I'll change...", he said and she nodded. He selected a lightweight suit for her and helped her wear it, though she is completely capable of changing, she loved it when he pampered her and it's been weeks she had gotten that treatment from her husband.
"Now go and make your hair... I'll be back in 5", he said...
"I'm not in the mood, I think I'll go with this bun...", she said and he nodded...
"You look beautiful either way... Choose your comfort above everything", he said kissing her head, she gave him a smile before walking out of the closet. He sighed and quickly got changed.
"Rana sa, when shall we inform the family ?", she asked him when he walked out of the closet...
"After we return from the hospital... By the way, from your next ultrasound, Dr. Mrunalini will come to the palace, the ER in the East wing is fully equipped, we don't have to go out, if it's multiple pregnancy, then you'll start showing up early, I don't want anyone to cast an evil eye on you or our child/children", Abhyansh said picking up her phone...
"Yeah, I completely forgot about the clinic here, we have a full-time gynecologist and obstetrician in the palace, Why can't we go to her instead ?", Isha asked ignoring his later statement as she doesn't want to argue about her stepping out of the palace now. Abhyansh shook his head at her suggestion.
"Dr. Mrunalini is a far better option, and since there's a chance of multiple pregnancy, I don't want to risk your health in any way, Dr. Mrunalini is well established and experienced, so I would prefer she treat you", Abhyansh said and Isha rolled her eyes, if the doctor in the palace heard him, she would die out of shame, she is also a great doctor but like always, her Rana sa is obsessed with the best in the field when it came to her... She sighed deeply... His overprotectiveness already started irking her.
"Let's go...", she said and stormed out, he followed with a confused face, now why is she angry ? He rushed out to catch up with her...
"Walk steadily... Your doctor is not running away...", he said earning a glare from her...
"I'm hungry...", Isha said...
"You didn't have your breakfast? That idiot Rajput didn't even feed you breakfast ?", Abhyansh cursed his brother-in-law
"I had... but it was 2 hours ago...", she said getting embarrassed and he chuckled at his wife's cuteness... he kissed her temple, pulling her into a hug...
"I so love you bacha... I am happy your appetite increased, Let's have breakfast and then leave", he said and she nodded with a smile, these days, just the thought of food excited her a lot...
The couple reached the dining hall, since there's still 10 minutes for breakfast, and Abhyansh had never come before time, he always came on time but never before or after. The family was still assembling when they saw Abhyansh and Isha there. Avyan checked his watch and phone thrice to see if he was late. Isha who noticed Avyan's act hid her smile, she also noticed everyone's faces that held fear and apprehension thinking they were late. They trust Abhyansh and his timing more than their watches, Isha sighed at her walking clock of a husband.
"I'm hungry, so we are early today...", she said clearing the air, she wanted to cool their otherwise anxious minds... They nodded, sighing inwardly that they weren't late.
"Bhabhi ma...", Avyan came forward and touched Isha's feet, she ruffled his hair with a smile, and he got up... "When did you arrive ?", he asked...
"just this morning...", Isha answered...
"Rani sa...", Abhyansh said, pulling a chair for her... Wait, What ? he never pulled a chair for her, but that's because she always sat after serving him, in fact everyone settled after he sat in his chair, so this move of his, definitely shocked them.
"Ji(yes) Rana sa", Isha said but didn't settle down, she always respected him in front of everyone as the king... he understood her silent actions, so he sat down first, and after that she settled down followed by the whole family. All the dishes were already placed on the table so Isha served him and they started having the breakfast.
After breakfast, Isha and Abhyansh left for the hospital. Isha was nervous but tried to handle herself. She is anxious thinking about the doctor's 'multiple pregnancy' statement. She is excited at the same time petrified. Abhyansh who realized his wife's state took her palm in his, and gently rubbed the back of it soothing her.
"It's okay, everything will be fine, I'm here with you", Abhyansh consoled her... She nodded at him resting her head on his chest. "Sleep bacha... I'll wake you up once we reach the hospital...", he said and she nodded closing her eyes... "Should I adjust the seat so you can lean your back properly ?", he asked gently...
"No, I'm fine...", she said leaning on him, tucking his arm... He held her securely supporting her back... He gently massaged her back and she sighed in relief...
"Is it aching ?", he asked and she hummed... "You could have told me before...", he said softly resuming his massage, she sighed in relief and soon slipped into a slumber...
They reached the hospital, Abhyansh woke her up, both of them walked inside the clinic, the doctor and the hospital staff were informed of the king and queen's visit, they were directly led to the doctor's cabin.
Dr. Mrunalini greeted them and the three of them settled in her cabin... She asked some questions to Isha.
"It's good that you aren't experiencing morning sickness yet... Feeling aversive towards any kind of food ?", the doctor asked, trying not to get intimidated by Abhyansh's presence, though he was sitting there calmly hearing to the doctor's conversation with his wife, his presence was enough to make anyone nervous...
"Not as of now...", Isha answered...
"Her appetite...", Abhyansh as usual stated in one word, the poor doctor who isn't used to his one-word statements like his minions got confused, but she didn't dare to ask him to clarify... Hearing his tone is enough to scare the hell out of her...
"My appetite has suddenly increased, um... actually I have had a minimal appetite since childhood and we are worried if the sudden increase would cause any harm to my health", Isha clarified looking at her husband, he gave a curt nod looking at the doctor waiting for the answer.
"Usually, it's normal in pregnancy, but if your appetite was minimal from childhood, the sudden increase may be because of what I suspected earlier... Multiple pregnancy could probably be the reason... I would recommend a scan, for now, let's start with the ultrasound ?", the doctor asked politely... Isha looked at Abhyansh and he blinked in a 'yes.
"Okay, we'll get it done...", Isha told the doctor softly...
The doctor asked Isha to lie down, but before the nurse could step ahead, Abhyansh took a step towards his wife and helped her settle down on the bed... The nurse wanted to adjust Isha's kurti so that the doctor could apply the gel and start the procedure but Abhyansh didn't move... and his cold aura is only making everyone overly cautious... Isha so wanted to kick her husband out but the desire to see their baby together for the first time stopped her.
"Rana sa...", she called him and he instantly understood what she wanted, he stepped to the other side holding Isha's palm, giving way to the nurse, she adjusted Isha's clothes and the doctor started the procedure...
"I was right... Multiple pregnancy it is... Congratulations Maharaj... Congratulations Rani sa, you are carrying triplets ... These are your babies...", the doctor said showing the small bean-sized dots on the screen.
"Triplets ?", Abhyansh whispered, his heart thudded with fear for his wife... there is excitement and happiness to have his kids but the worry for his wife overpowered everything... Isha could hear the slight tremours in his tone... She is scared herself but her husband looked more scared than her and it surprised her... usually he is very strong-minded, nothing could scare him except for the thought of her in pain and that explained his feelings now...
"Rana sa... We are having triplets... I'm happy... and I know you are too", she said holding his palm, slightly pressing it, to bring his emotions in control and it did help him a little.
"Is she fine ?", Abhyansh couldn't help but ask the doctor... His question definitely surprised the doctor, she heard Abhyansh Singh Ranawat was crazy about his lineage and the only reason he married was to continue his lineage, but here he seemed more concerned about his wife... Are all those just rumors? the doctor wondered.
"Yes, Maharaj... Rani sa is absolutely fine... that explains her increased appetite... Rani sa and the fetus, both are fine...", the doctor said, Abhyansh glared at her coldly... Can't she address his children in a better way ? instead of calling them fetus ? He is about to snap when Isha holds his palm knowing his bad temper...
The doctor observed the little exchange between the king and queen and when she recalled her words, she understood what blunder she did. The king is extremely possessive of his family, so obviously he would be possessive of his children...
"I apologize Maharaj... I meant the babies...", the doctor quickly corrected herself...
"It's okay doctor...", Isha said giving her a polite smile...
"Hear their heartbeat... It's faint as for now since it's still early, you can hear it properly around 12 -14 weeks...", the doctor clarified... "I'll leave you guys alone", the doctor added and with a small bow, she left from there leaving the new parents to enjoy the moment, she too needed a fresh breath of air away from the cold aura of the Abhyansh.
Isha's eyes welled up seeing their babies and hearing their faint heartbeats... Abhyansh held her palm rubbing it softly...
"I'm overwhelmed Rana sa... In less than 8 months, we'll have our kids with us... I'm no more scared... I feel like I can bear any pain to bring them to this world... to give the happiness of fatherhood to you, thank you", Isha said kissing the back of his palm, he shook his head kissing her forehead...
"Thank YOU... I'll be with you in every step... I'm sorry I couldn't take away the pain but I'll try to make it easy for you as much as I can...", he said, she could feel his rough throat... She knew he was extremely worried thinking about the challenges she would be facing... She knew assuring him or saying anything wouldn't help it so she refrained from trying.
He put back the transducer away, and wiped the gel spread on her stomach neatly...
"Rana sa... just call the nurse na...", Isha said... she didn't want her husband to do all these...
"It's my right to serve you in every way...", he said bending and gently kissing her exposed belly... She heard the unsaid and a very meaningful 'thankyou' in his kiss. She fisted his hair giving a small smile to him... He helped her correct her dress and after that, both of them walked to the doctor's cabin... The doctor is surprised, she thought they would call her or the nurse when they were done, she just hoped the king wasn't mad over this as well... Isha's smile relaxed the doctor. They settled in the chairs and the doctor advised about the do's and don't's.
Abhyansh carefully listened to her and then came the most important topic, intimacy. Though the doctor didn't completely say 'No', she asked them to be careful. She didn't talk about it directly as she was scared, What if Abhyansh got offended for going too personal? So, she instructed them indirectly and she knew both of them are smart enough to decode her words.
"The first trimester is critical for both the mother and child, and since Rani sa is carrying triplets, she should be even more careful, strenuous activities are a big 'No'. A little walk and exercise here and there is okay... She needs ' gentle ' care...", she said stressing on the word 'gentle' and both wife and husband understood what she meant by that. After the instructions, they stood up to leave, the doctor too got up and about to say that she would see them for the next ultrasound but Abhyansh beat her.
"See you at the Ranawat palace for the next ultrasound", Abhyansh ordered in his cold tone and the doctor understood that she is supposed to go to Ranawat palace from the next time, that's his way of asking... Before she could nod or bow at his order, he turned to walk away, Isha gave her a polite smile and walked away with her husband. Abyansh opened the door for Isha and took her palm in his gently leading her out...
The doctor rolled her eyes at his rudeness and arrogance but she couldn't deny him, she didn't have the audacity and more than that, she was aware of all the good things Abhyansh did for the people, he even sponsored 80% of the funds to built the hospital she now proudly called hers, he made medical care affordable for all the people in the regime, and in return for all this, if she had to go to the palace and treat his wife, who is a kind queen, she would be happy to do it. Not that she has any choice though. She wondered how gentle Abhyansh was when it came to his wife. It's as if she is seeing two different people in a single body. The elder lady shook her head and got back to her work.
"Rana sa, what about the scanning ?", Isha asked when they were walking outside the hospital, Bhairav and the guards guarding them...
"I have arranged it in the palace...", he said and she rolled her eyes...
"We could get it done here...", she said but he didn't say a thing and she got her response in his silence. If this continues, she would probably go crazy till the end of her pregnancy... She controlled her mouth as if she opened it, she would definitely say something that would shock his men and she would regret it later.
They soon reached the palace. Amruta frowned when she saw her elder son and daughter-in-law walking in... she thought they went to office ? What happened that they returned so early ?
"Isha... beta... Is everything alright ?", Amruta asked holding Isha's forearm and Isha gave a smile calming her mother-in-law.
"Bhairav... Ask everyone to assemble in the family hall in 2 hours", Abhyansh said and walked away to his chamber, he knew his wife would like to sit in the hall with the family so he left her there signing Bhairav to stay there and keep an eye on Isha... Isha who understood her husband's silent orders to Bhairav fisted her palms, she so wanted to kill her husband, she was pregnant, not sick.
Bhairav let Pratap, Avyan and Devyani Devi know about the Family meeting. Pratap got worried thinking the meeting was to increase his punishment. He thought his sufferings were over when his son punished him in the back palace for weeks, making him do strenuous activities for slapping and abusing his wife. He learnt his lesson but Pratap knew his son wasn't satisfied with it.
Pratap and Devyani Devi walked to the hall immediately.
"What new torture is he planning for me Isha ?", Pratap asked as soon as he settled down in the hall... his tone held accusation and Isha frowned at it. She didn't like anyone talking in that tone about her husband but it's his father, so she had to hold back her temper...
"Everything is not about you Sasur sa... Rana sa has an announcement to make...", Isha said the latter phrase softly... But her earlier sentence held a warning tone and Pratap got it.
Devyani Devi glared at Pratap with a 'think-before-you-talk' look. Some casual conversations followed after that, and Isha and Pratap got in word war but it wasn't serious, and Amruta smiled at the change in her husband while Devyani Devi hoped her son would realize all his mistakes at least now, though it's very late still better late than never. Avyan reached there and participated in the family conversations.
"I just realized, we don't have a family group", Isha suddenly said, everyone was surprised to hear her.
"Family group ? bhai sa won't like it", Avyan said
"I know, so we won't add him... Don't worry", she said and everyone raised their brows in shock... It would be better for them to not have a group if she is supposed to add him, as no one would speak a word if he is there in the family group so Isha decide to eliminate her husband.
Isha quickly added Amruta, Devyani, Avyan, and Pratap.
"Hello guys", she sent...
Everyone was apprehensive to reply, what if Abhyansh got to know about it ? He wouldn't leave the person who replied first...
"Hi", It was Devyani who sent the first reply making Isha smile widely...
"You keep boasting about your skills, show your courage now", Isha taunted her father-in-law who quickly typed a 'Hi' making Isha laugh. Pratap's message was followed by Avyan and Amruta.
"Bhabhi ma, Why didn't you add Ranveer ?", Avyan asked
"Should I ?", she looked apprehensive, if Pratap and Devyani would like it or not... She created this group so that her family interacts at least through this... she saw her friends interact very well with their families in the family group, they even argue and fight there, she wanted that bond for her family as well. She has a group with her brother and Vikram, and they three used to interact a lot there, but since the rift between her brother and Vikram, the group has become silent, though now they sorted their differences, there's still some gap which is yet to be filled and she knew her brother didn't forgive Vikram yet.
"You should add him...", Avyan responded, Pratap and Devyani nodded at Isha who gave them a small smile and is about to add Ranveer when Avyan stopped her.
"Bhabhi ma, first, let's keep a proper name and profile picture before adding him, otherwise we won't hear the end of his taunts...", Avyan said
"Right right...", Isha said and added Sharah and Veera's picture as the group icon, Avyan and Isha who knew Ranveer's fear for the two beasts laughed out loud, hi-fying each other.
"Now, he wouldn't even start the 't' of taunt", Isha said and Avyan nodded with a laugh.
"Laughing at your own brother huh ?", Pratap taunted Isha...
"We should think of a way to end his taunts as well...", Isha told Avyan pointing at Pratap and Avyan nodded... The duo are like those naughty kids who play pranks on everyone.
Pratap rolled his eyes at his younger son and his 'bhabhi ma'.
Avyan changed the group name from 'Family' to 'Family adventure'...
"Adventure ?", Amruta asked, rest all understood why he framed it like that...
"Ma... being in this family group is nothing less than an adventure... So the name", Avyan said and Amruta got afraid of her elder son's anger...
"Oh! no no, I am exiting... How to do it... Isha show me how to exit beta...", Amruta asked afraid, she is scared to piss her son now... She is afraid the little changes she is seeing in him would disappear and he would be back to his previous self.
"Ma... Relax... No need to be scared... Nothing would happen... It's just a group... Rana sa wouldn't say anything... Avyan is just scaring you, calm down", Isha called her mother-in-law.
"Yeah right right...", Avyan said teasing his mother, Isha glared at him...
"Avi... Stop it right away or else you know me", Isha warned...
"Bhabhi ma... sorry... I was just teasing ma for fun...", Avyan defended himself... "Now add your brother, I'm so wanna see his reaction to the Group Icon", Avyan said and Isha added her brother, he isn't online, Isha and Avyan chuckled imagining his reaction and others shook their head at the two childish adults.
The family had a little chat and everyone felt content to have a small conversation after ages, there is still coldness between them, a lot of it, and there are unresolved issues but having this light moment seemed as a new beginning for the family. It was almost time to gather for the family meeting Abhyansh called for, so everyone got up, Isha couldn't get up as quickly as everyone did... She needed support as the couch was little lower, Bhairav understood this... He was about to call Avyan back but Isha asked Bhairav's hand surprising him...
"Bhairav... Help me please", Isha asked with a small smile forwarding her palm...
"Rani sa... How can I...", Bhairav started with hesitation, they are not supposed to touch the Royal family women, that too a queen...
"Bhairav, you are family, how many times should I tell you not to separate yourself from the family ?", she asked sternly... Bhairav still hesitated... "Okay, from today, you are eating with us, maybe that would make you realize that you are one of us and will always be", Isha said...
"No... No Rani sa...", Bhairav said and quickly held Isha's palm helping her... Isha chuckled at how afraid Bhairav is to have meals with them, especially with his king at the same table... Isha didn't like how they separated themselves from the Royal family but she let it be, she always wanted Bhairav to have meals with them but she didn't force ever as for one, it would upset her family, two Bhairav won't be comfortable either, the only peaceful time he gets away from Abhyansh is his meal time, and she didn't wanna spoil even that little peace the old man had, anyways the rest of the day, her husband keeps dancing on his head for everything, commanding around with 'Bhairav do this... Bhairav do that...'
"Thank you", Isha got up from the couch and gave a small smile to Bhairav... She too walked to the family room and settled there, just then Abhyansh made his way inside and everyone stood up, she cursed for taking a seat just then, now she had to get up again in her husband's respect but he shook his head in a 'no' and quickly settled in the head chair and he was followed by other family members.
Bhairav is about to leave the hall when Isha stopped him.
"Bhairav, stay...", Isha said, looking at Abhyansh. Bhairav is as dearer to her husband as his family is, and so is he to her as well, and she wanted his presence in this happy moment. She knew Bhairav is already aware of the news, but still as a family, he too deserves to hear it from Abhyansh.
"Rani sa... Please let me go...", Bhairav politely requested, but Abhyansh cut him off...
"Bhairav, stay", Abhyansh ordered and Bhairav bowed as he couldn't say a thing to him, Isha narrowed her eyes at Bhairav for listening to her husband and not her, Abhyansh so wanted to chuckle at his wife but didn't due to the audience. He sighed concentrating on the task at hand, i.e disclosing the news to his family.
On their way home from hospital, Isha discussed how to reveal it to the family, Abhyansh wanted to choose the direct approach while Isha messaged him a script that's sweet for the family, he refused to read it, she suggested she would get the baby clothes prepared with sweet quotes mentioning all of them but he refused even that idea. So, now she wanted to wait and see how would her brooding husband reveal such a sweet news, she was waiting so that she could taunt him for life.
Abhyansh didn't want to upset his wife, he was preparing himself to read the script his wife sent him, he made a face even at the cringe statements in it but if he spoiled this, he wouldn't hear the end of it, moreover he wanted to do everything she wanted. He ordered for the clothes she wanted to get designed, he ordered his staff to get them as early as possible, he hoped they deliver it now, so that he didn't have to read those lines.
"I have something to tell you all...", Abhyansh started but just then everyone's phone pinged at the same time and they glanced their phones before putting them on silent but he observed they are hardly stopping their smiles. He wondered what is so funny...
It was Ranveer who messaged in the group with a sticker, his own sticker displaying his annoyance and his shocked and disbelief face is not all helping, if it wasn't for Abhyansh's intimidating presence, they all would have cracked up, but unfortunately even his presence couldn't stop Isha and Avyan from laughing. They tried hard to hold their laughter but failed at the end.
They quickly shut their mouths realizing what they just did.
"Finish it off first, then I'll speak", Abhyansh said in his cold tone that scared Avyan but Isha fought the urge to roll her eyes at her always brooding husband.
"Phone...", Abhyansh asked forwarding his palm that snatched Isha's playfulness. Avyan got scared and Isha had to divert the situation so she took the matter in her hands...
"I am pregnant...", Isha blurted out looking at the family, everyone is surprised and shocked to hear her, but her husband was wearing an amused expression. She was the one who lectured him when he talked about 'direct statement' but now look at her... Now he is determined to find whose message was it...
"My bachi... You are pregnant ? I am so so happy", Amruta got up and rushed to Isha taking her in her arms... Amruta broke the hug and kissed Isha's forehead... "My first grand child... You made me so happy Isha...", Amruta's eyes welled up in happiness, it's as if she was waiting for this moment for ages...
Devyani Devi got up from her seat and walked towards Isha, for the first time, Isha saw a wide smile on her face, otherwise, it's always her cold face or sometimes a smirk... Amruta moved aside so her mother-in-law could bless Isha, Devyani caressed Isha's cheek... Isha slowly got up and bend down to touch Devyani's feet but she stopped, instead took Isha in her arms, which is a first time...
"God bless you Isha... Eat well and take care of yourself, you need to take a lot of care at this time...", Devyani advised...
"Ji Dadi sa...", Isha said with a wide smile, she was happy to experience the warmth of the eldest in the family...
Pratap walked towards Isha, he didn't say a word but caressed Isha's hair... That was a first too... Isha could feel the happiness in his eyes but she knew the egoistic man he was, he wouldn't express in front of his son, his happiness to have his grandchildren.
Avyan wanted to hug his sister-in-law tightly... Tears welled up in his eyes... His brother lost all his childhood in protecting them, but he made sure Avyan got to enjoy his childhood, and every phase of his life. Avyan felt he couldn't give anything to his brother in return for all the sacrifices he did, for all those times when he risked his life to save him, and now Avyan vowed he would give all that happiness to his brother's children... Maybe that way, he would repay a fraction of his brother's love and affection, thought Avyan.
Amruta looked at her son, she wanted to congratulate him, hug him... Fatherhood is a blessing and she wanted him to embrace it with love and become the best father... But all her words remained in her heart.
"Maharaj... Congratulations... I get to see my great-grandchild... The firstborn in the next generation of Ranawat clan... I am delighted", Devyani Devi said in a happy tone instead of her usual cold tone and her tone moved his heart, the last time he heard that happy tone of his grandmother was when his grandfather was alive, Abhyansh gave her a small nod looking into her eye acknowledging her wishes and conveying how glad he is to see her happy, Devyani Devi smiled with tears at this small act of Abhyansh, it's as if her grandson was gradually returning...
"Rani sa is carrying triplets Rajmata", Abhyansh said, Amruta gasped in surprise... she again hugged Isha making her giggle...
"Bhabhi ma...", Avyan called, a lot of emotions were heard in his tone but happiness was evident the most...
"Oh! now you remember, huh....", Isha taunted him playfully, Avyan hugged her tightly and she could feel his tears... "Avi... Sh... I know you are happy but who gets happy like this hm ?", Isha said caressing his hair lightly... Avyan chuckled but still hugged her tightly...
Abhyansh asked Bhairav to capture all these moments as he knew his wife would love to cherish them in the future.
"Bhabhi ma, I'm so happy... Thank you so much... I'll be the best chachu to them...", Avyan said, his throat heavy, Isha smiled at his claim ruffling his hair, he is already the best chachu... In one way, it's because of Avyan and Amruta that Isha didn't want to leave Abhyansh, and he was partially the reason she was together with Abhyansh and pregnant with his children... Though she wouldn't say it in front of everyone, she realized its important for Avyan to know this, he always felt guilty that he didn't do anything for his brother and her, without realizing what all he had done for them.
At the beginning of her marriage, Avyan was the only one apart from her mother-in-law that supported her, and gave her the feeling of a family. They never left her alone or made her feel like she was nothing to them. Avyan was the first person she shared how she was caged for more than 16 years, he made her feel safe and reliable.
Avyan slowly broke the hug and walked towards his brother... He is a little bit scared but nonetheless approached his brother.
"Congratulations Bhai sa...", Avyan said, he so wanted to hug his brother but he didn't know how to, they never shared that kind of bond.
"Hm... To you too", Abhyansh acknowledged and that gave enough courage to Avyan, he hugged his brother, and Isha quickly captured the moment without knowing Bhairav was already doing it. The brothers' hug was brief but it gave the family, especially Amruta a hope that things could still be changed between her and her elder son. Her lost hope again revived and she had her daughter-in-law to thank for it.
"How far along are you bache ?", Amruta asked
"8 weeks ma...", Isha answered.
"Okay... Ma sa... can we hold the puja in the coming week ?", Amruta asked Rajmata...
"We can... We'll call the kulguru and the Rajgurus as well, they might suggest any extra rituals and yagnas... We would get them done as well... What do you think Maharaj ?", Rajmata asked Abhyansh
"Hm... I'll leave it to you to decide, Rajmata", Abhyansh said and his one statement gave the older woman the clarity that her grandson's lost trust on her is slowly reviving... She nodded controlling her emotions.
After a few more discussions, Amruta and Devyani left to invite the kulguru and Rajgurus the following day to discuss things. Pratap wanted to give something valuable to his daughter-in-law because, for him, she was no more Amar Rajput's daughter or the woman he hated, she became a part of his family and he loved and cared for her. Pratap took off his ring and that's when Isha saw that it wasn't a ring but a thin gold chain with golden knots in between. She always saw her father-in-law wearing the ring but till today she didn't realize it was a chain...
"Stay safe and take care of yourself", Pratap said extending over the fine gold piece to her... Isha hesitated to accept it... Abhyansh's face turned stone at his father's act, not with anger but in an act to hide his emotions, he never expected his father to do what he did just now...
Abhyansh knew the chain belonged to his sister and from the time she was killed, Pratap wore it as his ring unable to forget his dead daughter. He loved his daughter a lot and her brutal murder shook the family and Pratap couldn't help but blame himself as he was the one who brought Amar Raput and his allies inside the palace. Abhyansh never expected his father to give it to Isha, considering how she is Amar Rajput's daughter but looks like his father too started looking at her as his daughter-in-law more than his enemy's daughter now. "Accept it...", Pratap said...
"Sasur sa, this wasn't required...", Isha said but Pratap was determined... Isha looked at Abhyansh and he blinked his eyes as an approval and that came as a surprise, she thought he would oppose it. Isha accepted the chain, she bent down to take his blessings but Pratap moved back...
"I'll bless you the day when I become deserving of it...", Pratap said and walked away... Well, that's a big statement, she never thought the egoistic man would accept his mistakes openly...
"Is his health okay ? he is taking his medicines correctly right ?", Isha asked getting worried for her father-in-law's health...
"Yes bhabhi ma, ma makes sure he takes his timely medication, don't worry... From now on, just take care of yourself", Avyan said and Isha nodded...
"Learn from your father both of you... Where is my gift ?", Isha asked showing the chain Pratap gave to her... Abhyansh ignored his wife's drama while Avyan quickly replied, not wanting to upset his sister-in-law, she needs to be happy at this time and he would do everything to make her happy. He already thought of shopping for her...
"I'll give it to you later... promise...", Avyan said and Isha nodded and turned to her husband.
"What about you maharaj ?", Isha asked playfully but he already had a gift for her. He thought he would gift her on her upcoming birthday but she surprised him with the news that delighted him but he avoided responding to her now.
"Bhairav... Increase Rani sa's security... Make the changes and get my approval and make sure this news stays low", Abhyansh said, Bhairav bowed and is about to go but he remembered, he didn't congratulate the king and queen.
"Hukum... Rani sa... Badhaai ho... (Congratulations)", Bhairav said with a small but pleasant smile, and Isha smiled widely as getting his wishes made her happier...
"Thank you Bhairav", Isha said with a wide smile and it showed how important his wishes are for her... Bhairav got happy that his king got a queen like her, and he always wondered how can she be the blood of Amar Rajput.
Bhairav looked at Abhyansh who acknowledged his greetings with a nod. Bhairav bowed and left from there.
"Avi... Are you going back to office ? If so, take me with you...", Isha said
"You will be resting in the chamber...", Abhyansh declared... "Avyan, go back to office", he ordered, Avyan nodded and left from there leaving his brother to bear his angry wife's glares.
"I'll go back to my place if you keep doing this", Isha warned her husband.
"I am not letting you", he said and asked her to walk towards their chamber and he followed her.
"You are not going to office ?", she asked when she saw him following her.
"No... I'll be working from home", he said and she made a face filled with irritation...
"There was a time when I used to love having you around, but with your overprotectiveness, you changed it into hate... Please go back to office, I promise, I'll take care of myself", she whined.
"I am staying with you, doesn't matter whether you love Or hate it", he declared, it's just been half a day since he got to know about her pregnancy and he already became overbearing for her, untill she told him, her heart screamed for his presence and now that she told him, she wanted him to leave. Her mood swings irritated herself too...
They reached their chamber, and Abhyansh helped her settle on the bed and supported her back with cushions...
"I am just 8 weeks long, not 8 months... I can do it myself", she said with a frown...
"I know jaan... I am helping you since I'm here, if I go to office, you can do it yourself", he answered calmly...
"Ansh... I am sorry, I get easily irritated these days...", she said instantly feeling guilty...
"I know bacha, no need to feel guilty, you can snap at me, I don't mind", he said kissing her head.
"I'll be working in study in our chamber... Give me a call if you need something hm ?", he said but she held his wrist.
"Do your work here", she said and he agreed instantly, he got back with his Mac book and settled beside her on the bed.
She leaned on the cushions and started scrolling her phone, she started following a few baby pages and she giggled looking at the cute reels...
"Rana sa... This is what your kids would do with you", she said replaying the video showing it to him...
Abhyansh gave her a look to be silent, that's when she realized he was on a call... She cupped her face in shock but he shook his head asking her to relax. He ended the call and she started whispering sorrys...
"Noise cancellation is activated bacha, relax", he said and she calmed down... "Now show me that", he asked and she started giggling again thinking the video.
There are three little girls, sitting around their father, one girl is making her father's hair, while the other one is applying lipstick to his whole face, and the third one is painting his nails, scratch that, painting his whole fingers.
Isha showed it to him, horror struck Abhyansh's face looking at it and Isha laughed out loud... And then a small smile made it's way on his face.
"I would be grateful to Mahadev forever if I get even half as lucky as this man", he said and Isha looked amused at his statement.
"You wanted girl child ?", Isha asked
"Why do you even have to ask ? Of course", he answered looking at her with surprise. Didn't his wife know how much he craved for a daughter...
"I know but I thought you wanted a son first to protect your princess...", Isha said...
"Why should someone protect them ? The will be capable enough to protect themselves and everyone around them", he said proudly and she smiled shaking her head at the proud father in him...
"I'm sure... You would make them brave and courageous like you", she said, "But I want sons, I want to see that version of Abhyansh who smiles frequently and displays peace on their face", she taunted him and he frowned...
"Now that's not fair Rani sa... I'm always smiling when I'm with you", he defended himself...
"You call this brooding face, smiling ?", Isha fought back... Abhyansh kept his laptop aside and got closer to Isha...
"I don't mind until my wife loves this brooding face...", he whispers in her ear and the heat from his body, and his warm lips that are touching her ear, caused unexplainable sensations in the pit of her stomach...
"Rana sa...", she moaned closing her eyes...
"Hm... You want something ?", he teased her... It's been days she had kissed him and his proximity is only intensifying her hormones. She pushed him passing a glare, but he closed the distance and pressed his lips on hers, taking her in a sweet kiss, but soon it turned into a passionate one...
"You don't know how desperate I was, it was so difficult to control around you Rani sa", he said breaking the kiss... he pulled her to him softly kissing her nape but he pushed him away as she knew it would get difficult for them to stop if he continued his ministrations, and since she is in her first trimester, she decided to maintain some distance... And he understood her...
"Trust me, we won't do it...", he said pressing his lips on hers... and slowly started pleasuring her in other ways, they couldn't get intimate but that doesn't mean his wife would be deprived of her pleasure...
----------------------------------------------
"What about you ?", she asked after coming from her high...
"It's fine, I'll take a cold shower after some time... Now sleep... you seem tired...", he said softly kissing her forehead.
"Sleep here, beside me...", she said forwarding her hand and he took it, laying beside her... he made her wear his shirt and he is bare-chested now... "I'm glad to be back in your arms... I don't like going away from you but situations always play the villain", she said and he chuckled at her choice of words...
"I know, it's torture for me, just don't go away from me Rani sa, if we have differences, we'll sort it here...", he said
"We think we can solve everything staying together but some things are beyond that Rana sa...", Isha said silently hinting at their upcoming disagreement as her stance would be favoring her father and he wouldn't like it obviously. He instantly drew reference but chose not to say anything for the time being, he felt as if he got his life on track again after she came home, he didn't want to disturb the peace that's achieved after a long time.
"Sleep... You are tired...", he told her kissing her forehead...
"It's not good for the family wealth if I sleep at this time, Maa Lakshmi won't stay at our home", Isha said and he frowned...
"Who is feeding you all these things ? It's nothing like that, and your case is different, sleep bacha...", he said
"But...", she tried to argue...
"My Lakshmi is always with me, in front of my eyes, until you are happy and smiling, everything is fine... Sleep now...", he said and she smiled knowing he not just said for namesake, he meant those words...
She remembered seeing her photo on his desk, ' My Lakshmi' written on it, it's not any normal picture, it was her picture when she entered R Empire for the first time, when she kept her right foot inside the company, she didn't know her husband got that moment captured too until she came across that picture frame. This is one of his specialties, he doesn't express or show off how much he loves her or how much she matters to him, he is very bad at expressing but his ocean of love refuses to stay hidden and comes out in light in the form of such gestures.
"Want to eat something ? Hungry ?", he asked her when she didn't close her eyes despite looking tired and sleepy.
"Not now... maybe you are right, I'll sleep for a while", she said and he contained the urge to shake his head at her mood swings.
After she woke up, he got her ready and took her to the scan, and sent the reports to Dr. Mrunalini, consulting her on phone, she assured everything was fine with the mother and babies.
The next day, the kulguru and Raj gurus arrived at the Ranawat palace, they blessed Isha and her unborns and suggested some religious pujas, Devyani and Amruta took care of them making sure everything took place correctly. Abhyansh didn't involve himself and that made the two women happy, they knew he didn't trust them completely even now but he started trying to build his trust in them again and that's a good sign, Isha too is happy about it, though she wanted more from him, she wanted him to listen to her mother-in-law and learn the truth but something is better than nothing, she thought to herself.
--------------------------------------------
Abhyansh decided to confront his brother-in-law and Dr. Parthasarathy for hiding his wife's pregnancy news. He invited both of them to Ranawat palace but since Dr. Parthasarathy got an emergency at home, he had to fly back promising Abhyansh to be back. Abhyansh knew he was needed for his family so he let him go. Ranveer cursed his fate, now he had to go and face his brother-in-law alone. Now, Abhyansh would show him hell, thought he, and his brother-in-law didn't disappoint him, in fact, he overachieved Ranveer's expectations, he assigned back-to-back meetings to him for the next 2 weeks and also made him code in his free time, Abhyansh always wanted to have the knowledge about the interface used, and due to his wife's pregnancy, he couldn't be present there, so he assigned Ranveer the job knowing his brother-in-law's extraordinary coding skills.
A week passed and Ranveer eagerly waited for another week to pass quickly, so that he could meet his sister and his fiance.
Avyan gifted Isha the apparel she needed during her pregnancy phase. Isha appreciated the thoughtful gift a lot. In the coming days, she received gifts from Amruta and Rajmata, even Vikram sent gifts to her from London, but her husband didn't give her anything, and she waited for it. Her husband always got her the best, and his choice is amazing, whether it's a saree, bangles, footwear, bags, payal, toe rings, or jewelry... Everything is the best, and she wanted to see what would he gift her now.
Nonetheless, more than these things, what she values the most are his efforts and the way he cooks for her these days to satisfy her hunger. He didn't want their servants to know how much she ate or what she ate, he was scared they would cast an eye and that would affect her health, so he made sure to cook extra food in their personal kitchen every day before he left for work. For midday snacks and other things, he asked his mother to cook for her in their personal kitchen and feed her inside the chamber away from everyone's eyes. When Isha first heard her husband utter these things, she was so surprised knowing he believed all these things, but then she realized he took every possible measure to keep her safe, even if it made less sense. She admired his love for her a lot. These days, he wouldn't even let her cook or enter the kitchen, she could see everyone is missing her handmade food but none uttered a word, when she tried to cook in their chamber kitchen in her husband's absence, her mother-in-law stopped her lecturing her to take rest.
Isha worked from home most of the days, but visited office occasionally, She informed Ragini and Reetu about her pregnancy who were on cloud nine knowing the news, Ragini granted her work from home without even asking. Isha isn't showing yet so she decided to visit the office occasionally till she does. The days she visited office, her husband operated from first floor, and eventually, Isha's friends requested her to stay at home as having Abhyansh's presence in the floor was quite intimidating and they weren't ready for it. They even said they would come to the palace and personally take her signatures if needed but she wouldn't come to office. So, she stayed at home most of the days.
It was one such day. It's some time past lunch, and Isha is working on her designs in her laptop, sitting in the hall with Amruta and Devyani Devi when their family jeweler and his staff came there with Ranawat guards accompanying him.
He greeted all three of them, they all settled and he with the help of his staff started taking out the jewelry boxes and placed them neatly on the mahogany glass table.
"I would like to ask your forgiveness for the delay Rani sa... At first, Maharaj asked me to get these ready by the next month, so I was working at that pace but the deadline moved forward to last week but unfortunately, I couldn't deliver them on time, hope you understand...", the jeweler said confusing Isha...
"It's okay, Open them...", Isha said pretending to know about it, by now she understood that her husband planned this surprise for her birthday which is in the coming month and then when he got to know about her pregnancy news, he got it delivered before...
The jeweler opened the sets and they are an all-inclusive jewelry set.
"As you know, these are made up of the rarest diamonds, I'm blessed that Maharaj chose me and my enterprise to design this for you... We hope you like it...", he said and Isha nodded getting awestruck at the beauty of the jewelry. Rajmata and Amruta too examined the jewelry, they are the best they have seen till date, honestly they didn't expect Abhyansh to be so thoughtful, well, romantic is the right word that came in Rajmata's mind but she didn't say it out loud.
"They are beautiful, thank you for the wonderful job, where did you get these diamonds from ?", she knew they might have imported them from other countries as well.
"Maharaj gave them to me Rani sa", the jeweler said shocking Isha but she nodded masking her surprise.
The jeweler asked her to try them when she has some free time and let him know if there are any issues. She nodded and he left from there with his staff after taking her permission. By then, the ladies understood that Abhyansh personally selected the diamonds and imported them specifically for her. His efforts brought a smile on her face...
That evening when he came home, she told him how much she liked the jewelry.
"Um... Did the jeweler deliver everything ?", he asked without mentioning anything particular, she understood what he was asking but she wouldn't answer him until he asked directly.
He not only got jewelry made for her, but also for his mother and grandmother. But, he wouldn't say it out loud.
"Yes he did", she answered curtly.
"And ? Everyone liked it ?", he asked
"Why does it matter ?, I have to wear it, so it's enough that I like it", she purposely said so and he instantly understood what she was trying to do...
"God! Isha don't play with me bacha... Tell me, did they like it or they want any changes ?", Abhyansh asked
"They loved it Rana sa, but it would have been better if you gave them yourself", Isha said and Abhyansh glared at her.
"I got them something after ages, that should suffice, don't expect too much from me, you know I hate to disappoint you", he said coldly and she shook her head.
"You got it for them because you started softening towards them, and it's a good thing, there is nothing wrong in accepting that... and they are your family, it's only better that you change your ways with them rana sa, even if it's gradually", she said
"I don't want to talk about it anymore", he said and went to freshen up, she sighed at his adamant nature but let it slip for the time being.
-------------------------------------------------
Finally, Ranveer's punishment came to an end after an extension of one more week by his beast of a brother-in-law. Abhyansh is still not satisfied with his revenge so invited Ranveer for a sword fight but he downright rejected.
"Spare me Ranawat, my wounds from last fight haven't healed yet, I'm sure yours too didn't, so let's not stress our bodies much eh ?", Ranveer suggested and Abhyansh sighed at his brother-in-law's childishness.
"Okay, let's play something that wouldn't strain your poor body", Abhyansh said smirking indicating a chess game.
"Why do I smell something fishy here ?", Ranveer asked
"The bet... if I win, you will be my slave for a week, if I do, I'll be yours", Abhyansh announced shocking Ranveer, well, the part when his brother-in-law said he would be his slave is the sweetest thing he had ever heard, but he knew though he is a champion in chess, it's tough to defeat Abhyansh, but the offer is too tempting that Ranveer couldn't reject.
"Done... When do we play ?", Ranveer asked
"Now...", Abhyansh replied...
Both of them settled in the study room while the staff arranged for the chess game in a royal style, and after an hour, they commenced the game, Isha entered the study and saw her husband and brother playing chess. As soon as Abhyansh noticed his wife, he signalled Ranveer not to disclose anything about the bet to her, otherwise she wouldn't let them play, Ranveer blinked at him assuring him he wouldn't say a thing.
Isha frowned at their little exchange, if she didn't know any better, she would have definitely suspected her husband of cheating on her with her brother, that good is the understanding between her husband and her brother.
"What's going on here ?", Isha asked
"Andhi hai kya ? (are you blind ?)", Ranveer asked his sister hitting her head...
"Rajput... I would cut that hand of yours if you hit my wife again", Abhyansh warned coldly... "and speak properly to my wife", he added...
"Maharani Sa, Hume nahi pata tha aapki drishti kamzor hai, kahe toh ek ache vaidye ke paas leke chale aapko ?(Your royal highness, I didn't know you suffer from poor eye sight, if you say, I could take you to a good doctor)", Ranveer said bowing his head, and looked at Abhyansh giving him a look of 'Is-this-okay?'. Abhyansh so wanted to kick his brother-in-law's sarcastic a** out but controlled his fury as he will show him when he becomes his slave for the next one week.
"Bhai... Hum toh aise hi puchre the(Bhai, I was just asking) I haven't seen you guys playing chess ever, so...", Isha trailed...
"Your brother is an old a**, he didn't want to strain his body, so here we are, playing an indoor game in an Air conditioning setting", Abhyansh said making Isha glare at her brother.
"These days, you hardly exercise... Why are you neglecting your health like this ?", Isha scolded her brother...
"Don't worry Rani sa, I'll make sure he exercises a lot from tomorrow", Abhyansh said smirking at Ranveer, Isha found something fishy in his smirk but she didn't ask as she knew they wouldn't say even if she did.
"Now let us concentrate Ishu, support your bhayyu...", Ranveer said
"She would support her husband", Abhyansh said strongly...
"She always supported me, when I played with Vikram or even with bhabhosa...", Ranveer trailed, just hearing his name, Abhyansh stiffened but Isha held his hand patting the back of his palm calming him down and that helped him a bit.
"She is my wife now, and she will support me...", Abhyansh said and Isha messaged Avyan to come to the study and he was there in the next 5 minutes.
"Okay, since Avyan is here, we'll support our siblings, Avi and Ansh, Me and my veer ji", she said tucking Ranveer's arm. He kissed her forehead hearing 'veer ji' from her, she used to call him that sometimes, in her childhood. When she said that, all those cute and lovely moments ran like a reel in his head.
"My Ishu...", Ranveer said proudly ruffling her hair and Isha gave him a wide smile, but it soon disappeared when she saw her brooding husband, she could see the genuine happiness in his eyes when he saw her having an emotional moment with her brother, but that wouldn't stop him from getting jealous over the fact that she chose to be in her brother's team instead of his.
"Bhai sa... I'll cheer for you, I'm happy to be in the winning team", Avyan said and Abhyansh smirked looking at the confidence his brother displayed in him, well, he knew Avyan always had confidence in him but he never expressed it openly, or he never got a chance to express it before.
"Haha... keep dreaming", Isha mocked giving hi-fi to her brother, and there began the championship for 'Who's gonna be who's slave ?'