The golden rays of the December sun began to filter through the sheer curtains of Armaan and Abhira’s bedroom, casting a soft glow across the room. The morning air was crisp yet soothing, carrying the faint hum of Mumbai’s early bustle. Outside, the city was waking up—cars honking in the distance, vendors setting up their stalls, and the chirping of sparrows adding melody to the chaos. 

Inside their room, the atmosphere was serene. The faint aroma of Jasmine lingered from the diffuser on the nightstand. The bed, a cozy mess of pillows and blankets, held its own story of the night before. Abhira lay curled up on her side, her cheek resting against Armaan’s shoulder, her arm draped protectively over her growing belly. Armaan, in turn, had his hand resting lightly on hers, his face nestled into her hair. 

The sunlight inched closer, painting their faces with warmth. Abhira stirred first, her lashes fluttering open. She blinked against the light, her gaze landing on Armaan, who was still lost in the depths of sleep. A soft smile tugged at her lips as she noticed how his face looked peaceful and boyish in sleep. She snuggled deeper into his embrace, unwilling to let the moment slip away. 

As if sensing her movement, Armaan’s eyes opened slowly, and he caught her staring. A slow grin spread across his face. "Good morning Biwi," he murmured, his voice husky with sleep. 

Abhira smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Aise kya dekh rahe ho?" she asked playfully. 

Armaan stretched lazily, his hand brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Apni biwi ko dekh raha hoon. Kuch galat hai kya usmein?" 

She laughed softly, resting her chin on his chest. "Nothing, Mr. Armaan. Bas tumhari nazar se bachne ki koshish kar rahi thi." 

He chuckled, pulling her closer. "Mujhse bacha ja sakta hai? Main toh tumhe hamesha dekhunga." 

Their moment was interrupted by a sudden flutter from within Abhira’s belly. She gasped, her hand instinctively flying to her bump. "Ouch!" she exclaimed. 

He sat up immediately, his face lighting up with excitement. "Baby ne kick kiya?" 

She nodded, guiding his hand to the spot. As if on cue, the baby kicked again, causing them both to laugh in delight. "Lagta hai baby bhi hamare subah ke plans mein interested hai," Armaan teased. 

Abhira rolled her eyes. "Haan, woh aapni Mumma ki tarah foodie hai. Breakfast ki demand kar raha hai." 

Just then, their alarm rang, breaking the peaceful morning. Abhira groaned, reaching over to turn it off. "I hate alarms," she muttered. 

Armaan smirked, laying back down and pulling the blanket over his head. "Toh ignore kar do. Aaj ka din chhutti hai waise bhi." 

"Armaan!" she scolded, tugging the blanket off him. "Mujhe aur baby dono ko bhook lagi hai. Utho!" 

He groaned dramatically, burying his face into his pillow. "Thodi der main uthun chalega? Main abhi yahin rehna chahta hoon. Tumhare aur baby ke saath." 

She shook her head, pulling him by the arm. "Armaan Poddar, abhi utho warna tumhe main tumhe kick karke bed se gira dungi" 

At the mention of the kick, he peeked out from under the pillow, giving her a sheepish grin. "Thik hai, thik hai. Uth raha hoon." 

The two finally got out of bed, freshened up, and went about their morning routine. As they prepared breakfast together in the kitchen, laughter and teasing filled the air. It was just another ordinary morning, but for them, it felt extraordinary—a life built on love, laughter, and the anticipation of the little one who was about to join their world.

The kitchen was alive with the clatter of utensils and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The December sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the cozy breakfast nook. Armaan stood by the stove, flipping aloo pyaaz parathas with a practiced ease, while Abhira sat at the counter, slicing fruit for a side salad. 

Abhira, watching him with amused eyes, took a sip of the glass of warm water in front of her. "Armaan, it's just a parantha. Tum Picasso ki tarah itni concentration kyun de rahe ho?" 

He smirked, holding up the slice triumphantly. "Art, my love. Perfectly crisp parantha is an art. Tum samjho toh sahi."  He noticed her slicing the fruits.

Abhira rolled her eyes, shaking her head. "Art ya nahi, par baby ko khaana jaldi chahiye. Toh apne 'art' ko speed up karo." 

“Haan baba, but you be careful with that knife,” Armaan said without looking up, his voice carrying the unmistakable tone of a doting husband. 

Abhira rolled her eyes, popping a slice of apple into her mouth. “Relax, Mr. Overprotective. It’s just a knife, not a sword.” 

He turned, giving her a mock glare. “Still, I can’t have my biwi or baby getting hurt. Hand it over.” 

She raised an eyebrow, holding the knife out of his reach. “Armaan, I’m pregnant, not helpless. I can handle this.” 

“Fine,” he said dramatically, flipping the last paratha onto a plate. “But if you so much as nick yourself, I’m not allowing you near the kitchen over the next 2.5 months.” 

Abhira smirked. “Oh, really? And who will cook your favorite aloo parathas then?” 

“Taking as if Madam is doing all the cooking right now” He walked over, setting the plate down in front of her. “Aapke liye, From kitchen of world class Chef. Khadusmaan.”

She laughed, shaking her head. “Tum aur tumhara overconfidence.” 

As they sat down at the table, Abhira spread a dollop of butter onto her paratha and took a bite. She closed her eyes, savoring the taste. “Mmm, Armaan, yeh toh perfect bana hai.” 

He grinned, leaning back in his chair. “Of course. Perfect parathas for my perfect family.” 

She opened her eyes, giving him a playful look. “Perfect family, huh? Wait till the baby starts kicking you awake at 3 a.m. Tab dekhti hoon tumhara yeh confidence.” 

Armaan chuckled, reaching across the table to take her hand. “Tab bhi tumhare saath uth kar baby ko sambhalunga. Deal?” 

“Deal,” she said softly, squeezing his hand. 

Just then, the baby gave a small flutter, causing Abhira to gasp. “Lagta hai baby bhi papa ke plans se agree karta hai.” 

Armaan leaned closer, placing a hand on her belly. “Kya hua, baby? Mumma ki team join karni hai ya papa ki?” 

“Clearly mumma ki,” Abhira said, taking another bite. 

“Dhokebaaz,” Armaan said, feigning a wounded expression. “Mera hi bacha meri hi team change kar raha hai.” 

Abhira laughed, shaking her head. “Tum aur tumhari nautanki.” 

As they enjoyed their meal, Armaan got up to pour them both a glass of juice. He placed the glass in front of her, bending down to press a quick kiss to her forehead. 

“Tum dono meri life ka best part ho,” he said quietly, his eyes soft. 

Abhira looked up at him, her heart swelling with emotion and a hint of mischief. “Toh issi baat pe ek aur parantha do.”   

"Ek aur Parantha?" he feigned a gasp, clutching his chest dramatically. "Lagta hai mera poora aalo masala ka stock khatam hone wala hai." 

Abhira playfully swatted his arm. "Drama band karo, aur ek aur parantha do. Baby is also demanding another parantha." 

He chuckled, placing another parantha on her plate. "Lo, madam. Baby ke liye special. Aur tumhare liye bhi, meri hungry queen." 

She narrowed her eyes at him but couldn’t help the smile tugging at her lips. "Tumhe pata hai tum best ho."

Armaan grinned. "You know, tumne baby ke bahane mujhe poora assistant bana diya hai. Pehle ice cream demand, ab parantha ke liye buttering. Kya kar diya hai mere saath?" 

Abhira smirked, spreading some butter on her parantha. "Oh please, tum toh hamesha bolte ho ki tumhe mujhe pamper karna achha lagta hai. Ab complain kyun kar rahe ho?" 

"Pamper karna achha lagta hai," he admitted, walking back to his chair. "Lekin tumhara manager banna is next level." 

She laughed, taking a bite. "Tumhare 'manager' skills toh kaafi achhe hain. Mujhe lagta hai baby bhi tumhe assistant hi banane wala hai." 

Armaan groaned dramatically, but there was a twinkle in his eyes. "Great. Pehle biwi ka assistant, phir baby ka assistant. Main toh officially family manager ban gaya." 

Abhira leaned forward, placing a hand on his cheek. "Tum manager nahi ho, Armaan. Tum humari duniya ho. Tumhare bina toh yeh sab complete hi nahi hota." 

His expression softened as he covered her hand with his. "Aur tum dono ke bina meri duniya." 

They shared a quiet moment, the sound of the bustling city outside acting as a backdrop to their intimate exchange. 

Just then, Abhira broke the silence with a mischievous smile. "Waise, agar tum family manager ban gaye, toh kya salary loge?" 

Armaan raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. "Salary? Tum mujhe kya offer kar rahi ho?" 

She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Hmmm... ek extra ice cream tub har weekend?" 

He shook his head, leaning closer. "Not enough." 

"Toh kya chahiye?" she asked, pretending to be serious. 

He grinned, his voice dropping to a soft murmur. "Bas ek chumma, you know one kiss. Advance mein." 

Abhira laughed, but her cheeks turned pink. "Subah-subah shuru ho gaye tum!" 

But before she could protest further, he leaned forward and pecked her cheek, leaving her giggling. 

"Perfect payment," he said, winking. 

Their banter continued as they finished their breakfast, the love and laughter flowing effortlessly—a testament to the life they had built together, filled with small moments that made everything worthwhile.

____________

The morning at the house of the chorus gang began in a lively yet chaotic manner. The aroma of coffee and sizzling eggs wafted through the kitchen as Krish stood by the stove, flipping pancakes. Aryan was chopping vegetables for an omelette while Kiara tried to find plates in the messy cabinet. 

“Krish Bhai, how many times do I have to tell you to keep the stove on medium heat?” Aryan scolded, tossing the chopped peppers into a bowl. 

Krish scoffed, flipping a pancake with exaggerated flair. “Relax, Aryan. My pancakes are legendary. Nobody’s going to complain.” 

Kiara rolled her eyes, finally pulling out the plates. “Legendary for being burnt, maybe. Krish Bhai, if I see one more blackened pancake, you’re banned from the kitchen.” 

“Good morning to you too, Kiara,” Krish said with a grin, waving the spatula. “But don’t worry, these pancakes are golden perfection.” 

Aryan snickered. “Golden perfection, huh? Last time, Charu Di couldn’t even cut through yours without a knife.” 

The mention of Charu brought a brief silence to the room. Kiara set the plates on the counter, her cheerful demeanor faltering slightly. 

“She hasn’t come out of her room yet, has she?” Aaryan asked softly. 

Kiara shook his head. “Not a sound from the room ever since we have woken up. She’s probably still overthinking about yesterday.” 

Krish sighed, flipping another pancake. “We need to do something to cheer her up. Charu’s always been the one keeping our spirits up. It’s our turn now.” 

Kiara’s eyes lit up with an idea. “What if we surprise her with breakfast in bed? And not just that—let’s make it fun.” 

Aryan raised an eyebrow. “Define ‘fun.’” 

Kiara smirked. “We’ll go in there with music, balloons, and her favorite breakfast. Let’s create a party vibe to snap her out of her thoughts.” 

Krish nodded enthusiastically. “I love it. I’ll handle the pancakes and coffee. Aryan, you finish the omelette. Kiara, find those balloons from the cabinet.” 

“On it!” Kiara said, rushing off to the storage closet. 

As they hustled around the kitchen, the energy picked up. Within minutes, the kitchen counter was filled with plates of food—fluffy pancakes, cheesy omelettes, fresh fruit, and a steaming pot of coffee. Kiara returned with a handful of colorful balloons, which she handed to Krish. 

“Okay, team,” Kiara said, tying her hair into a ponytail. “We’re going to make Charu Di smile if it’s the last thing we do today.” 

“Mission Cheer Up Charu is a go,” Krish declared, grabbing the tray of food. 

“Let’s do this,” Aryan said, holding a Bluetooth speaker. 

They marched to her room with purpose, ready to bring a little sunshine into Charu’s otherwise gloomy morning. The chorus gang stood outside Charu’s room, their arms loaded with balloons, breakfast trays, and Krish’s Bluetooth speaker. Krish gave a dramatic countdown with his fingers before Aryan hit play on an upbeat song. As the music filled the air, Kiara pushed the door open and they all barged in. 

“Good morning, Sleeping Beauty!” Krish announced, holding the tray like a waiter in a fancy restaurant. 

Charu, startled, sat up in her bed, her wide eyes darting between the three of them and the colorful chaos they had brought. “What is happening?” she asked, her voice groggy but laced with confusion. 

“Operation Cheer Up Charu Di is happening!” Kiara declared, plopping onto the bed beside her. “And no protests are allowed.” 

Aryan set the speaker on her bedside table and turned down the volume slightly. “You’ve been overthinking since yesterday, so we decided it’s time for some sibling intervention.” 

Krish handed her the tray with a dramatic bow. “Pancakes, omelettes, coffee, and fruit—all prepared with love and a sprinkle of our legendary charm.” 

Charu’s lips twitched into a small smile as she looked at the tray. “You guys are crazy.” 

“That’s a compliment,” Kiara said, nudging her shoulder. “Now, eat up. We’re not leaving until we see you smile for real.” 

Charu let out a soft laugh, her first genuine one in days, as she picked up a fork and took a bite of the pancakes. “Okay, I’ll admit, these are good.” 

“See? I told you my pancakes are legendary,” Krish said, sitting cross-legged on the floor. 

“They’re edible at best,” Aryan quipped, stealing a piece from Charu’s plate and earning a playful slap on the wrist. 

As they dug into the breakfast together, the room filled with warmth and laughter. Krish mimicked a food critic, dramatically describing every bite, while Aryan and Kiara took turns teasing him about his nonexistent cooking skills. 

“Charu Di, do you remember the last time Krish Bhai tried making pancakes?” Kiara asked, grinning. 

Charu chuckled, her mood lightening further. “Oh, I do. The smoke alarm went off, and we had to air out the kitchen for hours.” 

“Hey, that was an experiment gone slightly wrong,” Krish protested, holding up his hands. “I’ve improved since then!” 

“Debatable,” Aryan muttered, earning laughter from everyone. 

As the breakfast progressed, they shifted to talking about random memories—family trips, late-night movie marathons, and inside jokes that left them all in stitches. The heavy thoughts weighing on Charu’s mind began to dissolve, replaced by the undeniable bond of sibling love. 

Kiara leaned her head on Charu’s shoulder. “We’re here for you, okay? Whatever happens, you’re not alone.” 

Charu looked around at their smiling faces, her heart swelling with gratitude. “I don’t know what I’d do without you guys,” she said softly. 

“Luckily, you’ll never have to find out,” Krish said, tossing a grape at her, which she caught mid-air with a laugh. 

They spent the rest of the morning lounging together, sharing stories, cracking jokes, and simply enjoying each other’s company. The bond they shared was their greatest strength, and today, it reminded Charu that no matter how challenging life got, she’d always have her family by her side.

_____________

The Poddars returned to the house late in the evening, the air heavy with a mixture of relief and worry. Kaveri had been discharged, though her fragile condition left everyone on edge. Vidya stood at the door, a small silver plate in her hands, as Madhav and Manoj helped Kaveri out of the car and towards the entrance. 

As Kaveri approached, Vidya lit the diya on the aarti plate, her hands trembling slightly. She performed the ritual with care, her voice steady as she prayed silently for Kaveri’s recovery. “Aap ghar waapas aa gayi hain, Maa Saa.” Vidya said, her voice laced with hope. “Yeh ghar aapki himmat ke saath hi phir se apni roshni payega.” 

Kaveri gave Vidya a weak smile, but her eyes were clouded with doubt. Madhav gently supported her as they made their way inside, with Manoj following closely behind. 

The family gathered in the living room, their faces somber. Though relieved to have Kaveri home, the uncertainty of her health and the family's future weighed heavily on their minds. They exchanged quiet glances, unsure of what to say or how to offer comfort. 

Madhav and Vidya led Kaveri to her room, ensuring she was settled comfortably in the bed. Vidya adjusted the pillows while Madhav tucked the blanket around her. “Kuch aur chahiye, Maa Saa?” Vidya asked softly. 

Kaveri shook her head. “Bas tum sab mere saath ho, yeh kaafi hai,” she murmured, though her tone lacked conviction. 

Once Vidya and Manoj left to check on other arrangements, Madhav pulled a chair close to Kaveri’s bed and sat down. He studied her face, etched with weariness and a hint of despair. 

“Maa Saa” Madhav began gently, “aap yeh sab itne chup chaap kyun seh rahi hain? Hum sab aapke saath hain, lekin pehle aapko khud ke liye himmat banani padegi.” 

Kaveri sighed deeply, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. “Himmat?” she echoed bitterly. “Mere paas kuch bhi nahi bacha, Madhav. Na ummeed, na Himaat.” 

“Yeh aap keh rahi hain, jo hamesha is parivaar ka sahara rahi hain?” Madhav leaned forward, his voice firm but kind. 

Kaveri’s eyes glistened with tears. “Main galat thi, Madhav,” she said, her voice trembling. “Maine apne faisle se tum logon ko dukh diya. Armaan aur Abhira ke saath jo kiya, uska dard mujhe har roz satata hai. Shayad yeh meri saza hai.” 

Madhav placed a comforting hand on hers. “Aapne galti ki thi, Maa Saa lekin galti ka ahsaas sabse badi shuruat hoti hai. Armaan aur Abhira aapse pyaar karte hain, aur woh yeh baat samajhte hain.” 

Kaveri shook her head, her tears spilling over. “Lekin kya woh kabhi mujhe maaf kar paayenge?” 

“Maa Saa,” Madhav said softly, “pyaar aur maafi ek doosre ke saath chalte hain. Armaan aur Abhira aapki parwaah karte hain, chahe woh aaj aapke saamne na ho. Lekin pehle aapko khud ko maaf karna hoga.” 

Kaveri let out a shaky breath, her hand clutching Madhav’s. “Tum theek keh rahe ho,” she whispered. “Shayad abhi bhi waqt hai kuch theek karne ka.” 

“There’s always time, Maa Saa,” Madhav assured her. “Aur jab tak aap ladna chahti hain, hum sab aapke saath hain.” 

Kaveri managed a faint smile, the faintest flicker of hope reigniting in her heart. For the first time in days, she felt a sliver of strength returning, thanks to her son’s unwavering support. 

The family gathered outside in the living room under the soft glow of the evening lights. The air was thick with tension and worry as they prepared to discuss Kaveri’s treatment plan. Madhav and Manoj sat at the head of the table, their faces etched with concern, while the rest of the family huddled together, trying to remain hopeful. 

Breaking the silence, Vidya, Kajal, and Manisha walked out holding small pouches and jewelry boxes. Without a word, they placed the items on the table in front of Madhav and Manoj. 

“Kajal, yeh kya kar rahi ho?” Madhav asked, his brows furrowing. 

“Bhai Sa,” Kajal began, her voice firm despite her moist eyes, “Maa ki jaan ke saamne yeh sab kuch bhi nahi hai.” 

Vidya nodded, her hands trembling as she spoke. “Madhav Ji, Manoj, yeh sab le lijiye. Jo karna pade, kijiye. Bas Maa Saa ko theek kar dijiye.” 

Manisha added, “Haan, bhai Sa. Hum sab milkar ek naye shuruat ke liye kaam kar lenge, lekin Mummy Saa ko abhi ladne ke liye waqt aur dawaon ki zarurat hai.” 

Madhav’s throat tightened as he looked at the small pile of jewelry. 

As the family absorbed the gravity of the moment, Rohit entered the patio, holding his phone. “Papa,” he said, drawing their attention, “maine abhi internet pe ek cheez dekhi. Mumbai ke ek multi-speciality hospital ka program hai jo families ki financial conditions ke karan medical expenses mein madad karta hai.” 

“Sach?” Madhav asked, his brows lifting. 

“Haan, Papa,” Rohit replied, showing them the details on his phone. “Yeh un families ke liye hai jo financially struggles face kar rahi hain. Hume unse contact karna chahiye.” 

A glimmer of hope lit up Vidya’s face, but it was quickly overshadowed by her weariness. She sank into one of the dining table chairs, clutching her hands together. “Yeh kya ho gaya hai hamare parivaar ke saath?” she whispered. “Kaise mushkil mein aa gaye hain hum?” 

Manisha immediately knelt beside Vidya, wrapping her arms around her. “Jethani Sa, hum sab saath hain,” she said, her voice steady. “Aur jab tak hum ek hain, koi bhi mushkil hume hila nahi sakti.” 

Madhav stood up, his voice strong and resolute. “Vidya, Manisha theek keh rahi hai. Yeh parivaar sirf ek musibat ka samna nahi kar raha. Yeh ek pariksha hai, jo hume aur mazboot banayegi.” 

Manoj added, “Aur hum sab is pariksha mein pass honge. Maa Saa ke liye, humare liye.” 

The family looked at one another, drawing strength from their shared determination. Though the road ahead was uncertain, they knew they would face it together, their bond growing stronger with every challenge.

__________

The soft glow of the city lights seeped into the nursery through the large glass windows, casting a warm ambiance across the baby nursery. Abhira was nestled on the cozy couch in the corner, surrounded by the soft pastel tones of the nursery walls. The faint sound of traffic and life outside was a soothing reminder of the world beyond their little haven. 

Abhira sat comfortably, her back pressed against the pillow fort Armaan created. She held a pregnancy book in her hands, her fingers idly flipping through the pages. Armaan’s hands, warm and gentle, were busy massaging her swollen feet with care. His touch was firm yet soothing, and every motion seemed to erase the tension from her body. 

Abhira let out a soft sigh as she turned another page. “Did you know,” she began, her voice laced with curiosity, “that the baby can hear everything now? Including us?” 

Armaan chuckled. “Then I guess I should start telling this little one bedtime stories,” he replied, his tone teasing. “Maybe about how their father is the most patient man in the world.” 

Abhira tilted her head to glance at him, raising an eyebrow. “Patient? You mean the same man who can’t wait five minutes for chai without pacing around the kitchen?” 

He feigned a gasp, his hands pausing for a moment before resuming their work. “That’s just strategic pacing to enhance the chai’s flavor. Totally different.” 

She giggled, leaning back further into him. “Strategic pacing, huh? I’ll make sure to write that down for the baby’s list of life lessons.” 

Armaan smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to her belly. “You can tease me all you want,” he murmured, “but the truth is, this little one’s going to have the best mom in the world.” 

Abhira’s smile softened, her free hand reaching up to rest on his arm. “And the best dad,” she whispered. 

For a moment, they both fell silent, their eyes drifting to the crib across the room. It stood empty now, but in just a few weeks, it would hold the center of their world. 

“Do you ever think about how much our life is going to change?” Abhira asked quietly, her voice tinged with both excitement and nervousness. 

“All the time,” Armaan admitted, his fingers gently tracing soothing circles on her ankle. “But if it means moments like this, then I can’t wait.” 

Abhira closed her book, resting it on her lap. She turned slightly to face him, her eyes glistening with emotion. “You make it all feel so easy, Armaan. Like no matter what, we’ll be okay.” 

“That’s because we will be,” he said firmly, cupping her face with his hand. “As long as we have each other, there’s nothing we can’t handle.” 

She smiled, her hand covering his. “I love you,” she said softly. 

“And I love you,” he replied, leaning in to kiss her forehead. 

Armaan, slowly shifted, moving closer to her as if drawn by some invisible force. He slid his arms around her waist, pulling her towards him in a tender embrace. His head found a natural resting place on her lap as he sank into her warmth, feeling the weight of his emotions settle.

They sat there in the quiet comfort of their nursery, the world outside fading away. In that moment, it was just the two of them—and the promise of the life they were building together.

___________

So, a happy update before the face off. Honestly the episode today was so high on emotions so thought to write this.

Also I wanted u guys to know that a request from a dear friend has caused me to edit and publish one draft that never made it to the Os Collection book.

This Os will be Part 2 of Heartfelt Wispers, Unspoken Bonds (The Os I had written on the post marriage 3 months phase). I shall be re-uploading part 1 today so that you can reread it to brush up the content before I post Part 2.

~TheLostSoul