Chapter-65
After two years ~
Abhimanyu stood near the island, slicing ripe pomegranates with practiced hands, the fresh, tangy scent mixing with the faint hint of cardamom from the tea Navya had brewed earlier.
The sweet aroma of freshly blended pomegranate and sweet lime wafted upward from the glass he was preparing-a careful blend of what she liked, what the doctor suggested, and what his instinct told him would soothe her.
He poured the juice into a tall glass, inspecting the consistency like a professional. No pulp, not too sour, and chilled just right.
He nodded with satisfaction. She'd like it. Even now, more than three years of marriage later, there was still a boyish urgency in him to please her.
Just as he placed the jug back into the refrigerator, a familiar voice chimed from behind.
"Bhai, I placed the order," Navya said, walking in casually, reaching for a glass of water.
Abhimanyu didn't look up. He simply nodded and said, "Okay, I'll go wake her up."
He grabbed the juice and walked upstairs, the rhythmic sound of his footsteps echoing gently in the corridor.
Their bedroom door was slightly ajar. He nudged it open with his foot and entered slowly.
The room was bathed in the quiet hush of late afternoon. The curtains were half drawn, allowing a dim, warm light to fall across the bed-and on her.
Aarushi lay curled slightly on her side, her soft breaths the only sound in the room.
Her hand was tucked under her cheek, and her long hair fanned out over the pillow like spilled ink. Her face had that tranquil softness only deep sleep could bring.
Abhimanyu quietly placed the juice glass on the nearby table and turned on the bedside lamp, careful to keep it dim.
As the warm light flickered to life, his gaze shifted-and landed on what had become his second competition for Aarushi's affection.
A small army of soft toys sat by the windowsill, in utter chaos. Pillu, Beside him was what Aarushi called "Mrs. Pillu," a slightly smaller, bow-wearing pink dinosaur.
Two more miniature dino babies rested beside them like a perfect nuclear dinosaur family.
There was also a unicorn with a sparkly horn, a squishy cow, and a very solemn-looking turtle, whose job seemed to be silently judging everyone.
Abhimanyu sighed and chuckled under his breath. "Of course," he muttered, walking over to arrange them. "God forbid this prehistoric family isn't in order"
He rearranged them into neat positions. Pillu in the center like the patriarch. Mrs. Pillu close beside him. The two baby dinos positioned like well-behaved children.
The unicorn and cow? Distant cousins. The turtle? Obviously, the neighbor who judges everyone.
He gave one last approving look before turning to Aarushi.
His gaze softened as it drifted down to her baby bump. Warmth bloomed in his chest, a strange mix of awe and vulnerability.
He walked over and sat on the edge of the bed. His hand instinctively went to her belly, which now rounded beautifully in her seventh month. His palm rested there, gentle and warm.
He leaned in and whispered, "Baby... wake up. It's already evening. If you sleep more, you won't be able to sleep tonight."
Aarushi didn't stir.
He brushed her hair back and tried again, voice a little louder. "Come on, sweetheart. Wake up."
She stirred this time, brows furrowing as she muttered, "Don't, let me sleep"
"Come on now. First eat something. Look, I made your juice."he said.
She groaned and finally opened her eyes, blinking up at him with faint irritation. "What..."
"Wake up, have your juice. And supplements too. Navya ordered food. Let's freshen up and go downstairs."
Aarushi rubbed her eyes, grumbling, "I was having a really good dream."
He smiled, helping her sit up carefully, one hand steady at her back.
"Well," he said in a teasing tone, "you can see me in real life too. I'm better than any dream."
Aarushi blinked at him, then gave him a deliberate once-over. Top to bottom. Twice.
She raised her brows. "Hmm... debatable."
His eyes widened in mock offense. "Okay, okay. No need to look at me like that. Your sarcasm levels are increasing dangerously."
She giggled, resting her head on his shoulder briefly. "I'm hungry."
"Perfect," he said, standing and walking over to bring the juice. "Here. And your supplements. Then go freshen up, food must be arriving soon."
She took both with a sigh but drank them obediently. When she was done, she started to get up slowly.
"Slowly" He helped her up with gentle support, steadying her until she could stand on her own.
He instinctively moved to follow, but she turned and said "Wait here. I'm good. I'll call you if I need anything."
He frowned slightly, clearly reluctant to let her out of his sight. "You sure?"
"Yes," she smiled.
"Okay," he said, hesitating before stepping back.
As she closed the bathroom door behind her, he exhaled and turned to the bed.
He walked over, smoothing the covers, fluffing the pillows, and placing everything back in order. A small part of him always needed the space to feel calm, clean, safe for her.
His eyes drifted toward the far wall, and he felt his heart soften.
On the right wall, slightly tucked into the corner where the morning light touched first, was their life in pictures.
Collages of memories. Printed, cut, stuck with her insistence.
There were candid pictures from their honeymoon. Silly selfies taken after midnight. Photos from Holi, Diwali, a random rainy evening at a street stall. Some with family. Some with just her, laughing at something he said.
One particular photo caught his eye. Aarushi was squinting at the camera while trying to put a paper crown on his head. They were both drenched after a surprise rain.
Her smile was wide and chaotic and he was looking at her like she was the only thing he could see.
Even now, she was.
His heart felt full, heavy in the best way. Three years ago, he never imagined their life would come to this - filled with this gentle chaos, this warm home, this laughter that echoed even in silence. And now...
Now, they were about to become parents.
The thought hit him like it did every time: with surprise, with joy, with gratitude.
He was going to be a father.
And she... she was doing everything, enduring everything with grace and strength. Carrying life, carrying love, carrying their future.
He didn't need to say it out loud. But he would. Again and again.
He was endlessly, helplessly, deeply in love with her.
And he would spend the rest of his life proving that to her. With every breath he took, every day he got to wake up beside her.
He couldn't put it into words. How beautiful she looked now. How deeply he felt every second with her. How every worry, every pressure of his empire seemed to dissolve when she smiled.
He didn't know what kind of father he would be, but he knew this-if he could love their child even half as much as he loved her, then he would be enough.
The soft click of the bathroom door stirred Abhimanyu from his thoughts.
He turned instantly, his gaze locking on Aarushi as she stepped out of the bathroom, freshened up and glowing in a way only she could.
Her face was flushed with warmth from the steam, loose strands of damp hair sticking to her cheeks, and she was dressed in a comfortable kurti.
He smiled. A soft, adoring curve of his lips that was reserved only for her.
"Feeling better, sweetheart?" he asked, his voice warm.
Aarushi nodded, drying her hands with a towel. "Much. Though I still want to sleep for three more hours."
Abhimanyu chuckled and opened his arms slightly in invitation. She walked over and melted into his embrace without a word.
He cupped her face gently, brushing a stray strand of hair away and kissed her forehead tenderly.
Then, without a word, he lowered his lips and kissed her-soft, unrushed, and deeply familiar. The kind of kiss that didn't need any explanation.
Her fingers curled into his shirt as she smiled into the kiss, then pulled away slowly. "Are you trying to bribe me for finishing the salad?"
He smirked, brushing his thumb across her cheek. "If that's what it takes, I'll kiss you a hundred times."
She rolled her eyes playfully. "That's not how bribing works, Mr. Rathore."
He took her hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles. "That's exactly how love works, Mrs. Rathore."
She blushed faintly, and he gave her a mischievous look. "Let's go downstairs before I change my mind and keep you here for another hour."
Together, they walked downstairs to the living room where only Navya and Aaryan were lounging on the couch.
Everyone else was out running errands or engaged in work. Navya looked up from her phone and grinned.
"Finally, Took you two long enough. Bhai, I thought we were supposed to eat before dinner turned into midnight snacks."
Aaryan smirked. "They probably got busy doing... yoga or something."
Aarushi rolled her eyes dramatically while Abhimanyu cleared his throat with a glare that said 'Behave'
Abhimanyu helped Aarushi settle comfortably on the couch, placing a soft cushion behind her back and adjusting the footrest.
His hands were gentle but purposeful, every gesture steeped in care. Then he went to the dining table and began serving plates.
"Two tacos. That's all you're getting," he warned Aarushi, his tone half-joking, half-serious as he brought her plate.
"Three," she bargained.
"Two. And salad."
She scrunched her nose as he set the plate in front of her. "You really want me to eat this pile of leaves again?"
"It's not a pile of leaves. It's a carefully balanced bowl of nutrients."
Aarushi stared at it like it had personally offended her. "You have trust issues with fast food."
He arched a brow. "And you have no issues in stealing fast food ."
As if on cue, while he turned to give Navya her plate, Aarushi quickly snatched a small slice of pizza from the tray and took a bite with a victorious smile.
Abhimanyu turned just in time to see her chewing.
"Aarushi," he said flatly.
She grinned and wiggled her eyebrows. "Oops."
"I should have known."
"You should always expect rebellion and it's not me it's your baby."she replied.
Navya and Aaryan burst out laughing while Abhimanyu gave her a slow, narrowed gaze and shook his head. "Not that baby card. I know you enjoy breaking rules when I make them."
"That's because you make too many," she quipped,taking another bite of pizza.
But mid-chew, she suddenly coughed vigorously. The room paused.
Abhimanyu was at her side in an instant, handing her a glass of water, worry etching deep into his expression. "Baby? You okay? Easy, drink slow."
Aarushi took the glass and sipped slowly, calming her breathing. Her hand instinctively went to her belly, rubbing soft circles.
He kneeled beside her, eyes searching her face. "What did I say about chewing properly?"
She gave him a sheepish smile. "Sorry. It was...really good pizza."
He exhaled through his nose and stood up,"You always do this."
"I said sorry,I will listen" she whispered, holding his gaze.
"This is the third time today you've said that."
"But this time I mean it," she insisted with a pout.
Abhimanyu didn't budge. Still glared.
She groaned and suddenly raised her voice, emotions tangling with her hormones. "Sorry bol diya na ek baar! Mante kyun nahi ho?"
The three others froze. Abhimanyu blinked, startled, then slowly nodded like he was trying to deescalate a ticking bomb.
"Sorry sorry dekho Maan gaya mai pakka...shant" he said smiling nervously
Navya stifled a laugh. Aaryan nudged her. "Hormonal hurricane incoming."
Aarushi exhaled and calmed herself, adjusting her position and grabbing the salad bowl as if to prove she was serious now.
"See? I'm eating salad. Happy?"
Abhimanyu let out a soft sigh and kissed her temple. "Ecstatic."
She took a bite and sighed. "Still tastes like disappointment."
He grinned. "Disappointment seasoned with love."
The evening settled into warm, familiar domesticity. The air filled with quiet laughter, rustling plates, and soft conversation.
Navya and Aaryan chatted away about a new web series while Aarushi munched on her "disappointment". Abhimanyu just watched her, eyes soft, fingers occasionally brushing hers when he refilled her water.
The night air wrapped around us like a soft shawl-cool, calm, and comforting.
I was curled against him, my head nestled on his shoulder. Abhimanyu sat with one leg resting on the low wooden stool and a pregnancy book open in his lap, flipping through pages with the kind of intense focus he usually reserved for board meetings and courtrooms.
And me? I just sat there... quietly watching the stars above us, quietly watching the man beside me.
It was funny-how life could be so still and yet so full at the same time.
The stars above were blinking softly, scattered like glitter across the midnight blue sky, but none of them had the warmth his shoulder carried. And none of them had the strength his silence offered me.
I turned my face slightly, enough to glance up at him. His brows were furrowed slightly, eyes scanning the page like the text might suddenly sprout wings and fly away. The book's title made me smile-"Understanding Your Partner's Emotional Needs During Pregnancy.
This man.
This impossible, adorable man.
I let out a soft breath, not loud enough to distract him, just enough to smile to myself.
He had three other books stacked on the table beside him-one about nutrition, one about labor support, and one about newborn care.
Whenever he got a spare moment, he'd quietly reach for one.
And the way he was trying to learn everything... not just about babies but about me. About this whole whirlwind phase we were going through. It was so Abhimanyu. So utterly him.
I knew it hadn't been easy for him. Especially in the beginning.
There were days when my mood changed every five minutes-when I would cry over misplaced clothes ,then laugh hysterically at a silly commercial, then be so angry I would threaten to move back to my parents' house just because he told me to take my iron supplement.
But he never snapped. Not once.
Okay, maybe once. Or twice. But then he would disappear for a few minutes, return with cut fruits, kiss my forehead, and say: "I am sorry"
It wasn't perfect. But it was us. Real. Messy. Hilarious.
I shifted a little, adjusting my legs so I could lean more comfortably against him. He paused at that, glancing down for a second, making sure I was fine.
"You okay?" he asked softly, fingers brushing my forearm.
"Hmm," I hummed, nodding against his shoulder. "Just trying to decide if I love you more today or yesterday."
He chuckled. "Depends. Did I let you eat ice cream yesterday?"
"No, you told me we should switch to frozen yoghurt."
"Then definitely today," he smirked, and I smiled into his T-shirt.
I reached out, gently closed the book on his lap. "You've read enough for tonight."
"I still have two chapters left on third-trimester support techniques-"
"Abhi," I said with mock seriousness, "unless those techniques include getting me a foot massage right now, they can wait."
He raised an eyebrow. "You want a foot massage?"
I gave him a look. "I want you to stop being a textbook and just be my husband for a few minutes."
He exhaled a laugh, then nodded, slipping the book aside. He wrapped one arm around me, warm and protective, and rested his cheek lightly on the top of my head.
I closed my eyes.
We didn't speak for a while.
The silence between us wasn't awkward.
It was heavy, yes - but in the gentlest, most comforting way. It carried the weight of everything we had faced together.
The morning sickness.
The emotional spirals.
The panic attacks when we first found out.
The first time we heard our baby's heartbeat.
And in that moment, with my head resting against his shoulder and the stars blinking above us, my mind wandered... gently, quietly... back.
Back to the day I told him.
Flashback
Okay. So, I was nervous.
Like, full-blown heartbeat-in-my-throat, pacing-the-room, might-pass-out-any-minute kind of nervous.
I had come home early , clutching that tiny plastic stick like it was an explosive device. Two bold lines. Positive.
I was pregnant.
I stared at the mirror, trying - and failing - to find a way to say it.
"Hey baby... guess what?" No
"Surprise! You're going to be a father." Naah
"You know... we made a human."
Nope. I sounded like a sleep-deprived stand-up comic.
So I did what any emotionally overwhelmed girl with no chill would do.
I embraced chaos.
I pulled out one of Abhimanyu's white t-shirts - the one I always stole because it was stupidly soft and smelled like him - and wrote across the front with a black marker:
"Papa Singh Rathore."
Then I wore it. Over my kurti.
It looked insane. But the message was loud and clear.
I even stuck the pregnancy test into a small gift box with a ribbon on top and placed it on the center table like some oddly sacred artifact.
By the time I heard his car pull in, I was literally vibrating.
I bolted back to the sofa, sat down with Netflix open at zero volume, and tried to act casual with a pulse of 200.
The front door opened.
'Hey,"his voice floated in, deep and familiar, already undoing his tie. "What are you up to?"
"Nothing serious... how was your day?" I asked, turning ever so slightly - completely forgetting that I was LITERALLY wearing a shirt that said Papa Singh Rathore across my chest like a walking billboard.
He paused. Stared. Then squinted.
"What's on your shirt?"
I glanced down innocently. "Oh this? Just... fashion."
He walked closer, brows furrowing. "It says Papa."
"Yup."
"Papa Singh Rathore?"
"Uh-huh."
"Why?" he asked suspiciously, now within arm's reach. "Is this about that kid in the lift who called me uncle again? I told you that-"
"Open the box on the table," I cut in, my voice cracking on the last word because nerves were tap dancing in my chest.
He glanced from me to the gift box. Then picked it up and opened it.
A pause. Silence.
Then... he stopped moving.
The pregnancy test lay inside, smug and glowing in its own evil little way.
He stared at it.
And then at me.
"Breathe," I whispered - because honestly, I wasn't sure if he remembered how.
"You're... pregnant?" he asked, like the word itself was trying to land in his mouth properly.
I nodded, watching his whole face slowly shift - confusion giving way to shock, then wonder, then-
He took two quick steps toward me and scooped me into a hug so tight, I squeaked.
"Fuck....We're going to be parents?!" he said, his voice raw and stunned.
I laughed through the lump in my throat and nodded again, my arms wrapping around him.
He pulled back, cupped my face with both hands, and kissed me - soft, searching, like he was still trying to believe it.
"Are you okay?" he asked between kisses. "When did you find out? Are you nauseous? Did you eat something? Did the doctor say anything-?"
"Breathe," I giggled through my tears. "And yes, I'm fine. Relax."
He exhaled like he'd just finished a marathon. His eyes flicked down to my stomach and his hand followed, hovering for a second before resting gently over it.
"There's really... a baby in there?" he whispered.
"A tiny one," I smiled.
"Like... smaller than my thumb?"
"Yup."
He let out a broken laugh and bent slightly, pressing a kiss to my belly like it was already the most precious thing in the universe.
"Hi, little one," he murmured. "It's your dad. And I already love you more than I've ever loved anything."
My throat closed up. Nothing snarky or sassy could come out this time.
"You're going to be the best dad in the world," I said, threading my fingers into his hair.
He looked up at me, eyes glassy, and pulled me into his arms again - this time slower, steadier, his breath warm against my temple.
"I-I don't even know what I'm feeling," he whispered. "It's more than happiness. It's... overwhelming. Like something sacred is starting, and I can't believe I get to live it with you."
He pressed his forehead against mine.
"You're going to be a mother... we're going to be a family."
A single breath escaped him, trembling and soft.
"Thank you, baby," he whispered. "For this. I don't think I'll ever be able to thank you enough."
I choked on the love swelling in my chest.
"I love you," I whispered.
He smiled, full and tender, and pecked my lips "I too love you...let's go to doctor wait i will book an appointment and --"
Back to Present
A cool breeze swept across the balcony, stirring my hair.
I blinked, smiling like an idiot, still wrapped in that memory.
My grip on his arm tightened instinctively.
"Papa Singh Rathore," I murmured under my breath, a little teasing smile tugging at my lips.
He glanced down at me. "Hmm?"
"Nothing," I said quickly, biting my cheek to stop from grinning.
He raised an eyebrow suspiciously but didn't press. Instead, he ran a hand along my arm and pulled me a little closer.
"Come on now," he said softly. "Let's get you to bed. Tomorrow's a big day."
I groaned. "Ugh, no. I don't wanna sleep."
"Aarushi," he warned gently, that no-nonsense edge slipping into his voice. "You need rest. You've been yawning from ten minutes "
"Yeah well, yawning is my personality now," I muttered, folding my arms.
He stood up and offered his hand. "Sleep. That's final."
"Bad man" I huffed, but took his hand anyway.
As he guided me back inside and helped me settle into bed, he kissed my forehead and whispered against my skin, "I want you glowing tomorrow. So sleep peacefully"
"Okay, okay," I smiled sleepily. "Only because you are requesting that much"
He chuckled lowly. "Sure"
He dimmed the lights, tucked me in like I was his most fragile treasure, and sat beside me for a few moments more, just running his fingers through my hair.
The next morning of Aarushi's godh bharai arrived with the gentle promise of celebration lingering in the air.
Soft sunlight spilled through the lace curtains, and the sound of bustling city echoed from somewhere in the distance, weaving into the scent of jasmine and sandalwood that clung gently to the corners of the room.
Aarushi stirred in bed, blinking sleepily as her fingers instinctively curled around the soft fabric of the blanket.
Her eyes fluttered open to the familiar sight of Abhimanyu sitting on the sofa, working on his laptop. He noticed her, smiled, and stood up to come near her.
"Good morning, baby," he whispered, leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead.
Aarushi hummed, still not entirely ready to leave the cocoon of sleep. "Hmm... is it already morning?"
"It's a special day," he reminded her gently, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Your godh bharai. Come on, sleepyhead. You'll need time to get ready."
She groaned playfully but sat up with his help. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked around the room.
The entire space had been transformed-delicate floral garlands hung across the windows and the faint glow of fairy lights twinkled along the mirror frame.
Her saree for the day-a blush peach silk with zari embroidery-was draped over a carved wooden hanger, surrounded by matching bangles, gajra, and a pair of intricately designed mojris.
"You did all this?" she asked, her voice touched with awe.
Abhimanyu smiled, handing her a glass of water. "With some help from Navya and the decorators. But yes, most of it. Wanted everything to be perfect."
She looked at him over the rim of the glass and grinned.
The morning unfolded slowly, filled with gentle laughter and hushed murmurs between them.
Abhimanyu helped her dress-patiently holding the pleats of her saree as she tucked them in, pinning the pallu securely over her shoulder, and adjusting her necklace with surprising precision.
He knelt before her, slipping silver anklets onto her feet with the same care he might have shown a sacred relic.
"You look... breathtaking," he said after a pause, pulling back to take her in.
Aarushi gave him a mock-glare. "No crying, Mr. Rathore. Remember your reputation."
He smiled and offered his arm with dramatic flair. "Shall we, Mrs. Rathore?"
They walked down the stairs together, hand in hand. The living area had been transformed into a festive haven-golden drapes, genda phool garlands, pink lotus centerpieces, and a velvet-covered swing placed right in the center.
Soft music floated through the speakers-an old lullaby Aarushi remembered her mother singing when she was young.
Family and friends had already started gathering. Navya was flitting around with a camera in her hand, documenting everything, while Aryan snuck sweets off the dessert table.
Bade Papa stood tall near the entrance, welcoming guests, and Badi Ma was by the swing, ensuring everything looked perfect.
When Aarushi entered, all eyes turned toward her. Gasps of admiration followed.
"Meri bachhi... kitni pyaari lag rahi hai," Badi Ma murmured emotionally as she rushed forward.
Abhimanyu stepped aside with a proud smile, allowing her to take Aarushi's hand and guide her to the swing.
The rituals began shortly after-traditional songs sung by the older women in the family, haldi and kumkum applied on her forehead, bangles slipped one by one onto her wrists as everyone showered her with blessings.
Abhimanyu stayed close, occasionally adjusting the cushions behind her back, handing her water, and making sure she wasn't overwhelmed.
Whenever someone fed her a bite too spicy or too sweet, he intercepted the next one. She laughed every time, half-annoyed, half-adored.
At one point, Navya came over and handed Abhimanyu a box. "This is your turn bhai."
He raised a brow. "What's this?"
"Something symbolic," she said mysteriously.
Inside the box was a tiny white onesie with the words: Mini Rathore - Coming Soon.
Abhimanyu blinked, then let out a breathy chuckle. He turned to Aarushi, his eyes warm. "They've already branded the baby."
She laughed, leaning forward just enough to brush her hands against his. "Well, branding is your department, CEO saab."
As the ceremony carried on and laughter echoed through the mansion, the space seemed to glow more.
Aarushi's eyes sparkled as she exchanged greetings with relatives and received blessings - some light-hearted, some emotional, and some just amusing.
The traditional songs played gently in the background, the dholki beating in rhythm with the excited voices around her.
A cousin interrupted "Bhaiya, Bhabhi! Photo time"
The photographer stood ready, camera poised as everyone shifted to make space.
Abhimanyu gently helped Aarushi up from the swing. "Careful," he whispered, placing one hand protectively on her lower back and another beneath her arm.
They stood together under the floral canopy now - her frame leaning slightly into his as they posed for the first set of pictures.
Aarushi whispered, "Smile naturally, don't look like a mugshot."
Abhimanyu whispered back, "I'm standing next to the love of my life and the soon-to-be mother of my child. If I smiled any wider, my jaw might fall off."
She blinked, thrown off for just a second, before she laughed - head gently tilting toward him.
"Cheesy. But cute," she muttered.
The camera clicked, catching that exact expression - her laughing, him gazing.
They took photos together: his arms behind her, hers resting on her baby bump, both holding each other gently like something sacred.
The family joined in - Bade Papa and Badi Ma standing proudly on either side, then Chachu and Chachi, followed by Aryan and Navya who, predictably, began cracking jokes halfway through, making everyone laugh.
The photographer grinned taking family shot "Perfect"
After the family group photos, there was chaos as cousins began insisting on selfies.
In a quiet moment, as everyone busied themselves with food and laughter,
Eventually, when the ceremonies wound down and guests started leaving,
Aarushi leaned back into Abhimanyu's chest as they sat on the swing. He rubbed slow circles on her back, letting her rest.
"Tired?"
"Happy-tired," she mumbled. "Also, hungry. But don't you dare say salad."
He chuckled. "We have fruit chaat in the kitchen. And yes... one slice of that almond cake you've been eyeing."
She looked up at him. "I love you."
He kissed her forehead softly. "I know."
The day had been long, but it was perfect. A celebration not just of impending motherhood, but of togetherness. Of love wrapped in rituals, and traditions infused with laughter.
After 2 months ~
The sterile scent of antiseptic lingered in the air, masked only faintly by the calming lavender diffuser in the hospital labor room.
Outside, the corridor was tense - a blend of anxious pacing, whispered prayers, and nervous glances.
Badi Maa had her eyes closed with a rosary in hand, while Aryan and Navya hovered nearby, trying not to look worried. But inside the room - chaos had a name.
Aarushi.
Sweat clung to her forehead in glistening beads. Her brows were scrunched, her lips parted in pain, and her one hand gripped Abhimanyu's hand like they were her only tether to sanity.
The monitor beeped beside her, recording every contraction, every heartbeat - hers and the baby's.
"Ma'am," the doctor said calmly but firmly, "it's time. You need to push."
"No I-" Aarushi croaked, her breath hitching. "I can't...it-its hurting so much"
Beside her, Abhimanyu stood like a statue of marble - tall, broad-shouldered, dressed in scrubs over his usual black shirt, and looking ten shades paler than normal.
His eyes flickered between the doctor and Aarushi, panic rising in waves.
He had fought business tycoons in boardrooms. Outmaneuvered seasoned politicians. Took down enemies with nothing but strategy and silence.
But nothing - nothing - had prepared him for watching Aarushi in labor.
He leaned down quickly, clutching her hand with both of his. "Baby... baby you've got this. You're strong, okay? I'm here. Just breathe with me. One, two, three-"
Aarushi turned her head toward him, her eyes dark and blazing. "Breathe? Tum kar ke dikhao na. Ghanta I can do it."
Abhimanyu blinked, momentarily stunned. "I-uh-haan, I know it hurts but-"
"Oh do you? How?" she hissed, eyes wide. "You think you can do this? Nikalna ek baccha. Ek baar nikal ke dikhao na....Then say breathe. Ye sari tumhari galti hai...You did this to me"
He opened his mouth to reply but no words came. She was in pain. Angry. Scared.
"Sorry," he said quickly, "My fault. Totally. This is all on me."
The doctor glanced up, trying not to smile. "One more big push, ma'am."
Aarushi groaned and leaned forward, gripping the handrails. "This is happening because of you, Abhimanyu Rathore. Agar aaj ke baad tumne mujhe haath lagaya haddiya tod dungi tumhari"
"Arey per tumne hi kaha tha ki tumhe -" Abhimanyu said hurriedly, wiping her forehead with a cloth.
She screamed through another contraction and yanked her hand out of his "Chup ekdum or hath choodo mera"
He stepped back, alarmed. "Okay, okay"
Aarushi growled. "Arey kaise insaan hai choodo bola to chod doge ...haath pakdo! Jaldi!"
He scrambled back and held her hand again like it was his lifeline.
A nurse giggled under her breath.
The doctor nodded. "She's ready. Aarushi, just one more big push - you're almost there."
Aarushi gritted her teeth, closed her eyes, and pushed with everything she had left in her.
And then - the room erupted.
A shrill, beautiful cry cut through the air.
Abhimanyu stilled.
Everything slowed - the noise, the breath, the panic. His eyes widened as the nurse held up the tiny baby, covered in birth and life and love.
"It's a girl," the doctor announced gently, almost reverently. "Congratulations."
A girl. Their daughter.
Abhimanyu looked at Aarushi. Her head had dropped back against the pillow, breath ragged, skin damp, but eyes fluttering open.
He bent down slowly, hand still clutched in hers, and kissed her forehead.
Not in a rushed gesture - but in the softest, deepest kiss he had ever given. His lips lingered there, trembling slightly.
"You did it," he whispered, voice hoarse with emotion. "You did it, baby. She's here."
Aarushi gave a weak smile. "Told you... I could..."
"You're the strongest person I've ever known," he whispered again, pressing his forehead to hers. " And she's the luckiest girl to have you as her mom."
Aarushi barely managed a nod before her eyes fluttered closed briefly in exhaustion.
The nurse walked over. "Sir, we need to clean both the baby and the mother. Could you please wait outside for a few minutes?"
Abhimanyu straightened instantly. "She's unconscious-"
"She's fine," the doctor assured gently. "Just tired. Everything's okay. We'll bring her out to you with the baby and shift them to another room in few minutes."
He looked back at Aarushi. Her fingers were still loosely curled around his.
He brushed her hair back softly
Then, reluctantly, he went outside.
Just before stepping out, he turned once more, casting one long look back at the woman he loved more than life and the tiny little heartbeat they had brought into the world.
And as the door shut softly behind him, Abhimanyu exhaled, long and slow - like he'd just returned from war and left a piece of himself behind.
The hallway erupted the moment they saw him.
"Abhimanyu!"
"Is she okay?"
"Kya hua? Bolo na!"
Their voices came all at once - overlapping, frantic, hopeful. But he didn't say anything immediately. Just stood there, looking utterly dazed.
Abhimanyu finally blinked, coming back to earth. His voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper.
"She is okay and It's a girl."
A beat of silence - and then cheers broke out like confetti in a celebration.
"A girl" Badi Maa gasped, eyes shining with tears. "Laxmi aayi hai ghar mein"
Chachi instantly came forward and said "Badhai ho hum dadi ban gayi"
Chacha hugged him warmly, pride swelling in his chest. "Congratulations, beta"
Rudra was already elbowing him playfully, his eyes wide. "A girl? Congratulations"
Abhimanyu could only manage a weak smile.
Aarushi's parents were next - her mother, emotional and proud, blessed him. " Congratulations and Thank you... for keeping our daughter safe."
Her father patted his back gently, nodding without words - the kind of silent approval only fathers knew how to give.
As they all sat down again, still buzzing with joy, the nurse reappeared after an hour.
"She's being shifted to a private recovery room," she said kindly. "You can all meet her "
Abhimanyu didn't need a second invitation , he immediately stood up and went towards the room.
The door creaked open softly.
The room was quiet now - peaceful, glowing under the pale yellow lights. The chaos of labor had passed, and everything felt slowed down, sacred almost.
There, on the bed, lay Aarushi.
Hair slightly messy, skin pale but glowing, her body clearly exhausted - but her face?
Her face held peace.
Because in her arms, wrapped in a soft white blanket with tiny golden stars, was their daughter.
The baby.
Abhimanyu stopped at the threshold.
He froze.
His eyes fixated on the tiny figure nestled into Aarushi's chest. So small. So delicate.
A tiny fist rested against Aarushi's collarbone, and her soft pink face peeked out from under the swaddle like a whisper of heaven.
His throat tightened.
"Abhi...." Aarushi's voice was soft, almost teasing. "You planning to just stare forever or come hold your daughter?"
He swallowed. "I... Are you okay?"
She smiled, tired but radiant. "I am now."
His feet finally moved. Slowly, cautiously, like approaching something sacred.
He sat beside her, eyes never leaving the tiny bundle.
Aarushi looked at him with a knowing smile, then gently held the baby out to him. "Take her."
His hands hovered in midair. "How...? Like this or wait, I think... left hand under, right behind the neck?"
She chuckled - a soft, sleepy giggle. "Hold her like I am. Don't overthink. She won't break."
He looked at her once more. "Are you sure?"
"Abhi"
"Okay, okay."
He slipped his arms around his daughter - gingerly, as if lifting the most fragile crystal in the world. The moment she settled into his hands, his breath hitched.
So small.
So warm.
So real.
The world vanished.
The baby stirred gently in his arms, her face scrunching, lips puckering.
And Abhimanyu... crumbled.
His eyes turned glossy and his arms cradled her protectively, his hands already learning the rhythm of gentle rocking.
His lips parted, eyes locked on her face - memorizing everything.
"God..." he whispered. "She's so... perfect and beautiful"
He looked back at Aarushi - his voice cracking. "Her eyes... they're like yours."
Aarushi smiled sleepily. "You're crying."
"No I'm not," he said quickly, shaking his head - but the tears had already slipped free.
His words came out broken. "I'm not..."
Aarushi chuckled avoiding much movement "Yes, you are."
He sniffled softly and bent down, pressing a kiss to his baby girl's forehead. "I love you a lot."
His daughter gave a soft coo - a sound that hit his chest like a melody he didn't know he needed.
He rocked her gently, still in awe.
Aarushi watched them - her whole heart in her eyes.
She whispered, "She's going to be the luckiest girl in the world. Because she has you."
"No," Abhimanyu whispered back. "We have her"
And then the door creaked open.
The family peeked in "Sorry for disturbing you but we can't wait anymore " Navya said.
One by one, they entered - slowly, reverently, like entering a temple.
Badi ma was first to reach. "Haye meri gudiya," she whispered, bending down to bless the baby.
Chacha looked at the baby and then Aarushi "She's beautiful, beta. Just like you."
Navya gasped softly. "Can I touch her?"
"No, you will hurt her "Abhimanyu said shielding her in a protective manner.
Everyone laughed softly as Navya touched the baby's tiny feet,showing her tongue to glaring abhimanyu
Aarushi's mother reached out slowly and touched the baby's cheek. Her fingers trembled. "She's... divine."
Rudra clicked a photo quietly on his phone " One photo for memory"
Aarushi chuckled "Of course."
They shifted gently. Abhimanyu sat beside Aarushi on the bed, still holding the baby close.
Aarushi leaned against him, her head resting on his shoulder, while the others gathered around the sides of the bed.
Click.
A moment - captured forever.