|| 3 Years 6 Months Ago ||
|| Udaipur ||

The December night had wrapped itself around the city, the air crisp and biting with winter's chill. A soft fog crept in through the silent streets, where the distant hum of passing vehicles seemed muffled under the cloak of the cold. The moonlight peeked through patches of clouds, casting a faint silvery glow over everything. Inside their home, however, the atmosphere was a stark contrast-warm, cozy, and brimming with an unspoken intimacy.

In their room, the faint yellow light of a lamp spread a golden hue over the walls, chasing away the cold shadows. The windows were closed, the curtains spread preventing any intruder even if it was the moon light. The space was theirs-soft pillows scattered on the bed, a fleece blanket crumpled at the corner, and a small heater whirring quietly on the floor. It was simple, lived-in, and full of love.

At the far corner of the room, Abhira sat hunched over her study table, her files spread across its surface, documents stacked on one side, and her notepad filled with scribbled notes. The edge of her pen tapped against the paper as she furrowed her brows in thought. Her grumpiness was evident, her lips pursed into a pout, and her forehead lined with frustration.

The sudden preponement of the final hearing of the Manish Goenka case had thrown her off completely. Instead of two days, the case was now scheduled for tomorrow, forcing her to dive into preparations late into the night. What frustrated her more was that it coincided with Armaan's birthday. All her carefully laid-out plans had been ruined. The small surprise she had envisioned-celebrating his special day with love, laughter, and the warmth of close ones-was now in jeopardy.

Abhira had immediately informed the chorus gang, and Krish had taken charge like the dependable friend he was. "Don't worry, Abhira Bhabhi," he had said with confidence. "I'll handle everything. We'll decorate the place while you two are at work. You focus on the case. We've got this!" His assurance had been comforting, but her heart still ached at the thought of not being able to celebrate with Armaan the way she had planned.

She glanced at the clock-it showed 11:30 PM. Almost midnight. Abhira let out an annoyed huff, her hand absentmindedly scribbling random doodles and question marks on the edge of her notepad. In her grumpiness, she muttered something under her breath and blew at the loose strands of hair falling on her face, making silly expressions without realizing it.

That's exactly the scene Armaan walked into.

He paused at the door, his tiredness from the day forgotten in an instant. The sight of her sitting there, eyebrows knitted in a frown, pouting like a stubborn child, made his heart melt. He couldn't help but smile as he watched her scribble, huff, and pull at her hair in irritation.

"Stupid files," she muttered, oblivious to his presence. "And Why tomorrow of all days?"

Suppressing a chuckle, Armaan quietly stepped toward her. Without a word, he wrapped his arms around her shoulders from behind, pressing a soft kiss to her temple.

Abhira startled slightly but relaxed instantly at his familiar touch. "Armaan," she whispered, her voice soft as she leaned into his embrace.

"You're going to kill that notepad at this rate," Armaan teased, his deep voice laced with amusement as he rested his chin on top of her head. "What's with the grumpy face?"

Abhira let out a dramatic sigh, turning her face slightly to look at him. "The case is tomorrow," she mumbled. "They prepone it, and now all my plans for your birthday are ruined." Her tone was heavy with disappointment.

Armaan's brows furrowed, and he tilted his head. "My birthday? Abhira, you're sitting here, working late into the night for something incredibly important, and you're worried about that?"

"Yes!" she said, twisting in the chair to look at him. "I had plans, Armaan. Actual plans-to make your day special, and now..." She sighed again, her voice dropping. "Now I'll be busy in court, and I hate it."

Armaan's heart swelled with affection as he crouched beside her, cupping her face gently in his palms. "Abhira," he said softly, his thumb brushing against her cheek. "You're making me feel loved just by being here. Just knowing that you care so much about it-that's all I need. You don't have to do anything grand for me."

Abhira's eyes softened, but she still pouted. "It's not fair, though."

Armaan shook his head with a small chuckle, then he extended his hand for her and she stood up, stepping behind her again he lead her to the bed. "Come here," he said, as she sat down with her documents and notepad in her lap while he stood near the bed's edge. His hands slipped into her hair and gently, he began massaging her scalp with his fingers, kneading the tension away.

Abhira closed her eyes, melting under his touch. "Armaan," she murmured, her voice dreamy. "You're too good to me."

"Someone has to keep you sane na Sharma ji," he teased lightly. "Or you'd drive yourself crazy overthinking everything."

"Khadusmaan tum" she retorted weakly, but the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her.

Armaan chuckled, pressing another kiss to the crown of her head. "Better now?" he asked softly.

"Much," she admitted, her voice content as she leaned back into his touch. "You have magic hands."

"Only for you," he murmured, his tone affectionate.

They stayed like that for a while-her seated, him standing behind her, his fingers weaving gentle circles into her hair. The atmosphere in the room was calm, the only sounds being the faint ticking of the clock and their soft breathing. In that quiet moment, the chilly night outside ceased to matter. It was just the two of them, wrapped in the warmth of each other.

Eventually, Armaan leaned down again, whispering close to her ear, "You're going to nail that case tomorrow, you know that, right?"

Abhira smiled, reaching up to hold one of his hands. "Only because you're my lucky charm," she whispered back.

Armaan chuckled, placing one last kiss on her cheek. "Always."

Armaan continued to massage Abhira's hair, his long fingers kneading the tension out of her scalp with gentle precision. The soft strokes, combined with the warmth of his presence, made her feel at ease, her earlier frustration dissolving slowly. Abhira occasionally mumbled over her notes, biting her lower lip as she pondered aloud.

"Armaan, what do you think about this?" she asked, pointing at a scribbled argument on the notepad.

He leaned forward slightly, his chin hovering near her shoulder as he squinted to read. "Hmm... you could tweak this line a bit. Make it punchier. How about... 'The integrity of the agreement was compromised due to the defendant's deliberate omission'?"

Abhira's eyes lit up, and she scribbled quickly. "You're good at this," she murmured with a smile, glancing back at him.

"Well, I do have the smartest lawyer as my wife," Armaan teased, his voice dripping with pride.

Abhira smirked playfully but returned to her notes, occasionally nudging him with follow-up questions. Armaan, still standing behind her, happily engaged, offering suggestions while his fingers continued their soft, rhythmic massage.

Suddenly, Abhira's phone alarm went off, startling both of them. The time flashed 12:00 AM-midnight.

Armaan paused mid-stroke. "What's that for?"

Before he could finish his sentence, Abhira grabbed his hands and stood up abruptly, pulling him along with her. Without a word, she turned to face him, her eyes glowing with warmth, and in the blink of an eye, she climbed onto his lap, arms looping around his neck and legs wrapping around his waist, cocooning herself against him.

Armaan chuckled, though surprise danced across his face. "Abhira, what-"

"Shhh," she whispered, pressing her forehead against his, her voice soft but brimming with love. "Happy Birthday, Armaan."

She peppered his face with gentle kisses-on his cheeks, his nose, his eyelids, and finally his lips. Each kiss was accompanied by whispers of, "I love you... I love you so much... I love you more than anything."

Armaan's breath caught, his heart swelling with emotion as he held her close, one hand supporting her back while the other cradled her head. In that moment, words failed him. All he could do was hold her tighter, his chest rising and falling as he silently prayed for her to be by his side always.

"I don't deserve this," he murmured faintly, his voice thick with emotion.

Abhira pulled back slightly, her fingers running through his hair as she gazed into his eyes. "You deserve everything, Armaan. And I'll spend my life proving that to you."

Before Armaan could respond, his phone buzzed in his pocket. Annoyed, he groaned but pulled it out, his expression softening when he saw the caller ID-Krish.

"It's Krish," he said, showing Abhira the screen.

"Pick it up!" she urged, her legs still wrapped around him.

Armaan swiped to answer, the video call connecting. The screen was instantly filled with smiling, excited faces-Krish, Vidya, Madhav, Manisha, Manoj, and the entire chorus gang, all huddled together in what appeared to be someone's living room.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ARMAAN!" they whispered loudly in unison, trying (and failing) to keep their voices hushed. Krish waved frantically at the camera, his grin wide.

Armaan blinked, momentarily overwhelmed by the sight of so many loved ones coming together for him. "You guys..." he said, his voice trailing off.

Vidya spoke up next, smiling warmly. "We couldn't wait till morning. We wanted to be the first ones to wish you, beta ofc after abhira."

"Are you crying?" Krish teased, squinting at the screen.

"Shut up, Krish," Armaan muttered with a shaky laugh, but his voice betrayed just how overwhelmed he felt.

Abhira shifted in his lap, trying to get out of his grip but Armaan refused to let her go, holding her close as if drawing strength from her presence. She looked up at him, pressing his cheek against her forehead, he pulled her closer as trying to gather himself. Abhira rubbed his back providing him the assurance he was looking for.

Madhav chuckled softly, "We hope this year brings you all the happiness in the world, Armaan."

"And don't you dare let Abhira overwork herself tomorrow!" Manoj added with a grin.

Abhira laughed lightly, her fingers squeezing Armaan's arm. "I'll try, Chacha Sa."

Aaryan wiggled his eyebrows. "For now, just enjoy the moment. And Bhabhi, don't worry-we've got everything handled for later."

Armaan looked at Abhira, puzzled, but she only smiled, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

"Thank you, everyone," Armaan finally said, his voice warm yet soft. "This means so much to me."

As the chorus gang waved goodbye and the call ended, Armaan set the phone aside, his focus returning entirely to Abhira, who was still snug in his arms.

"Did you plan something else too?" he asked, his voice laced with affection.

Abhira smiled, resting her palm on his heart. "Maybe..."

Armaan shook his head, pressing his lips to her forehead. "You're unbelievable, you know that?"

"And you're stuck with me," she teased.

"Forever," he murmured, holding her close again, the warmth of her presence filling every corner of his heart.

Outside, the chilly December night continued, but inside their room, wrapped in each other's arms, Armaan and Abhira existed in a world untouched by the cold-where love, warmth, and quiet promises made the night unforgettable.

_________

The soft glow of the morning sun filtered through the sheer curtains of their bedroom, casting a gentle golden hue on the sleeping figures of Armaan and Abhira. They lay tangled together, limbs entwined, as if they couldn't bear to let go even in sleep. Abhira's head rested on Armaan's bicep, her back pressed to his front, while his arms cradled her securely, holding her close as if protecting her from the world.

Slowly, Abhira began to stir. Her eyelashes fluttered before she blinked herself awake, feeling the warmth of Armaan's embrace around her. A soft smile crept onto her face as she tilted her head slightly to look at him. Armaan was still fast asleep, his face peaceful and boyish, a hint of a smile lingering on his lips. She took a moment to admire him, brushing her fingers softly across his jawline.

"Shaadi ke baad pehla birthday hai aapka, Mr. Poddar," she whispered softly, her voice filled with affection. "Toh special banana toh banta hai."

Leaning in, she pressed a featherlight kiss to his forehead, her lips lingering for a second longer. Then, she kissed his nose, smiling as he stirred slightly, and finally placed a soft kiss on his cheek.

"Happy Birthday, khadusmaan," she whispered near his ear before gently slipping out of his hold.

Armaan groaned faintly in his sleep, his arms searching for her warmth, but Abhira managed to escape. Giggling softly at his adorable pout as he caught hold of her pillow and slept again, while she grabbed her shawl and tiptoed out of the room, careful not to wake him.

Later Abhira walked straight to the small temple in their living room, as instructed by Vidya. She lit a diya, its golden flame illuminating the serene idols of Radha-Krishna. Folding her hands in prayer, she closed her eyes.

"Bhagwan ji, bas Armaan ko khush rakhna. Unki zindagi mein sirf pyaar aur sukoon ho. Woh hamesha muskurate rahein, aur jo bhi struggles hain, unka hum saath milkar saamna karen. Aaj ka din unke liye bahut special ho."

With a content smile, she stepped into the kitchen. She grabbed her phone and opened the recipe Manisha had shared the night before -a sweet yet simple Besan ka Hawla paired with puris. "Perfect," she murmured to herself, pulling out the ingredients. Rolling up her sleeves, she got to work, humming softly as she roasted the besan in ghee, the rich aroma filling the house.

Armaan woke up to the smell of something sweet wafting through the air. Blinking sleepily, he sat up, his hair tousled and face still marked with sleep. For a moment, he glanced around, his arms automatically reaching for Abhira, only to realize she wasn't there.

"Abhira?" he murmured groggily, but then his ears caught the faint sound of utensils clinking from the kitchen.

With a soft smile, he stood up and stretched before padding toward the kitchen. The sight that greeted him made his heart swell-Abhira stood at the counter, her face glowing in the morning light as she focused intently on stirring the contents of the pan. A few strands of hair escaped her bun, framing her face in a way that made her look even more beautiful.

Armaan leaned against the doorframe for a moment, watching her, his expression tender. He didn't say anything, allowing himself to savor the simple yet profound moment.

Finally, he walked up behind her and wrapped his arms gently around her waist, pulling her back into his chest. Abhira jumped slightly in surprise. "Armaan!" she exclaimed, turning her head to look at him. "Good Morning ho gayi aapki"

"Hmm," he murmured, nuzzling her neck softly. "Kya ho raha hai yahan?"

She smiled, tilting her head back slightly. "Your birthday breakfast. Surprise."

Armaan's gaze drifted to the stove, where the Besan ka Halwa simmered perfectly golden, and on the side, a plate of fluffy puris was waiting. His throat tightened as he took in the scene, and his mind involuntarily wandered back to the grand celebrations of his birthdays at the Poddar Mansion-lavish breakfasts, extravagant parties, the entire family coming together to make him feel like the center of their universe.

But today... this simple, quiet morning, with Abhira working so hard just for him, struck a different chord in his heart. It was overwhelming-because it wasn't about grandeur; it was about love.

A tear escaped his eye, trailing down his cheek unnoticed until Abhira turned in his arms and gasped softly. "Armaan?"

He quickly wiped his cheek, shaking his head, but Abhira cupped his face gently, searching his eyes. "Kya hua? Tum ro kyun rahe ho?"

Armaan exhaled shakily, pressing his forehead against hers. "I don't know... it's just-this. You. I've had so many birthdays, Abhira, but this... this feels different."

Abhira's eyes softened, and she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him close. "Different achha wala different hai ya bura wala different?"

Armaan smiled faintly through the emotion, his arms tightening around her waist. "Achha wala you silly girl, bahut achha."

She rested her head against his chest, her fingers tracing soothing circles on his back. "Toh fir yeh aansuon ka kya kaam?"

Armaan chuckled softly, his voice thick. "Woh toh sirf ek stupid moment tha. Mujhe bas... overwhelming laga."

Abhira tilted her head back, her eyes locking with his. "I'll make sure this birthday is your best one yet, Pati Dev. Abhi toh bas shuruwat hai."

Armaan smiled warmly, brushing his lips gently over her forehead before murmuring, "Bas tum ho toh sab perfect hai, biwi."

Abhira grinned, leaning up to kiss his cheek. "Now let me finish breakfast, warna halwa jal jayega. Aur tum jake nahao and then pray in the mandir before anything."

Armaan huffed playfully but didn't let her go just yet, hugging her close for a few seconds longer before finally releasing her. He turned to go when abhira stopped him again.

"Armaan," she called for him softly "Aaj jab bhagwan ji se wish mango na toh sirf aapne liye mangna."

Armaan pressed a lingering kiss to Abhira's forehead. "Main fresh hoke aata hoon," he murmured softly, trailing his hand down her arm as he stepped back. Abhira smiled and nodded, turning back to finish plating the halwa and puris while Armaan headed to the bathroom.

The sound of running water echoed faintly as Armaan stood under the warm spray, allowing the droplets to wash away the weight of his emotions. Birthdays had always been bittersweet for him-celebrations clouded by memories of his mother, Shivani, and a longing for something simpler, something truer. But today was different. Today, Abhira had filled his life with warmth and quiet love, and that was all he could ever ask for.

Once dressed in a crisp white shirt and dark trousers, he walked back to the small living room where the morning diya still flickered in the temple. The serene faces of the Radha-Krishna idols watched over the space, bringing a sense of peace to his heart. He stepped forward, folding his hands and closing his eyes, his voice soft and filled with reverence.

"Bhagwan ji, Abhira ne bola ki aaj apne liye kuch maangna chahiye. Par aapko toh pata hai mujhe kya chahiye-bas woh hamesha mere saath rahe. Uski muskaan, uski khushi meri zindagi hai. Mujhe aur kuch nahi chahiye. Uska saath bas yunhi bana rahe."

He paused, taking a deep breath as the weight of another prayer lingered in his heart. Shifting slightly, he whispered, "Mumma."

The word hung heavy in the air. Armaan opened his eyes slightly, looking upward as though seeking Shivani's presence. "Mumma, mujhe pata hai aap mujhe dekh rahi hain. Aaj aapka beta thoda aur samajhdar ho gaya hai-Abhira ki wajah se. Woh meri zindagi ka sabse bada tohfa hai. Aap bas usse hamesha khush rakhna... aur mujh par aapni blessing banaye rakhna."

He swallowed hard, his throat tightening. "Aapki bohot yaad aa rahi hai, Mumma."

Armaan stood there for a moment longer, the flickering flame of the diya reflecting in his eyes before he softly turned away.

Back in the kitchen, Abhira had set everything on the dining table-a small plate of golden puris with a bowl of warm halwa that still steamed gently. Armaan walked in, his eyes softening as he saw her waiting for him.

"Birthday boy, aayiye," she teased, pulling out the chair for him dramatically.

Armaan chuckled, shaking his head. "Aapke is dramatic welcome ka kya karun, biwi ji?"

"Enjoy kijiye," she replied with a wink. "Waise bhi, aapka special din hai."

As they settled down for breakfast, Abhira served him first, watching his expression with eager anticipation. Armaan took a bite of the halwa, and the taste immediately brought back flashes of childhood-of his mother making it just like this. He looked up at Abhira, his eyes moistening again as he whispered, "Ye... bilkul waise hi hai jaise Mumma banati thi. I don't remember the taste exactly but aisa hi banta tha vo bhi."

Abhira's smile softened, and she reached across the table to hold his hand. "Main jaanti hoon u like it, isliye toh seekha chachi sa se."

Armaan didn't say anything; he simply squeezed her hand, his heart brimming with gratitude. Moments like these made him realize how deeply Abhira understood him, even the unsaid parts of his soul.

After breakfast, the two of them got ready for the day. Abhira got ready in her usual court fit but with open hair rolled at the side and fixed at the back. Armaan couldn't take his eyes off her as she walked out of the room, putting the earings.

"Staring is rude, Mr. Poddar," she teased playfully, catching his gaze.

Armaan smirked, stepping closer to wrap an arm around her waist. "Tumhe dekhna aur tumhare pyaar mein doobna toh meri purani aadat hai, Sharma Ji."

Abhira rolled her eyes with a blush but leaned in to adjust the collar of his blazer. "Chaliye, ab late ho raha hai. Aaj hearing bhi hai aur aapko bhi kaam pe jaana hai."

They gathered their files and laptops, stepping out of the house together. The chilly December morning wrapping around them like a promise-of love, partnership, and unwavering support for whatever lay ahead.

___________

Abhira stood near the auto stand, clutching the small bag containing her files and essentials while glancing around impatiently. The morning sun shone brightly, but the crisp December breeze still carried a slight chill. She rubbed her arms to warm herself as she looked at her watch again.

"Where is this Krish?" she muttered, glancing down the road. Armaan had already left for the firm while she waited for Krish as he was supposed to take over the house keys before she rushed to the court.

As she waited, her eyes fell on a familiar black SUV parked at some distance across the road. Her heart skipped a beat. The same SUV as that night. She narrowed her eyes as her suspicion grew. The engine was running, and within moments, the vehicle came to a halt closer to where she stood.

Her instincts kicked in when the doors opened, and a group of men stepped out. Her stomach churned as she recognized their faces-men she had seen tagging along with Ashok during the case hearings. A shiver of unease ran down her spine.

"Stay calm, Abhira," she told herself as she quickly turned and began walking toward the road to find an auto. But the men were faster.

"Arre madamji, rukiye zara," one of them called out, his voice carrying a mocking tone.

Abhira ignored them and increased her pace, gripping her files tightly.

The men surrounded her in seconds, cutting off her path. "Kya jaldi hai, madam? Lagta hai aap bohot busy hain court jaane ke liye," another man sneered, his eyes glinting with malice.

"I'm warning you," Abhira said firmly, her voice steady despite the fear prickling her spine. "Move aside."

The tallest of the group stepped closer, an unsettling smirk on his face. "Aise kaise? Ashok sir ke against witness deke bohot badi galti kar rahi ho, madam. Tumhe thoda sabak sikhana padega."

The men advanced on her, one of them grabbing her arm roughly. Abhira yanked her arm free, her eyes blazing with determination.

"I said, dur raho" she shouted, shoving the man hard. He stumbled back but recovered quickly, his expression turning dark. Another lunged toward her, but Abhira was ready. She swung her bag at him, the metal zipper leaving a scratch across his face.

"Ah! You-"

Before he could finish, Abhira kicked him square in the knee, forcing him to stagger back with a groan. Her adrenaline surged as she fought fiercely, swiping her files at another man who grabbed her wrist. The sharp edge of the folder scratched across his face as she twisted away from his grip.

But they were too many. One of them managed to shove her, and she stumbled backward, her ankle twisting painfully. A gasp of pain escaped her lips as she hit the ground, her palms scraping against the rough pavement.

Just as the men moved in to grab her again, a familiar voice cut through the chaos.

"Abhira Bhabhi!"

Krish's voice rang out as he sprinted toward her, Aryaan close on his heels.

"Oye! Hato unke paas se!" Krish roared, his voice filled with fury as he reached the scene. The men hesitated, glancing at the two new arrivals, who didn't slow down as they charged forward.

Krish tackled one of the men to the ground, his fists flying in a rage, while Aryaan grabbed another by the collar and shoved him back. "How dare you touch her!" Aryaan growled, delivering a solid punch.

Soon crowd gathered and upon realizing they were outnumbered, the goons stumbled back toward the SUV. The SUV roared to life and sped away, leaving a cloud of dust behind.

Krish turned to Abhira, who was sitting on the ground, breathing heavily as she cradled her injured wrist. Aryaan rushed to her side.

"Bhabhi! Are you okay?" Aryaan asked, his voice laced with concern.

"I'm fine," she mumbled, wincing slightly as she tried to move.

"Fine?!" Krish snapped, his voice sharp as he knelt beside her. "You're bleeding, and your ankle-what were you even thinking fighting them alone?"

Abhira looked at Krish, her eyes blazing. "I wasn't going to let them stop me from going to court!"

Aryaan shook his head, gently helping her to stand. "You're impossible, Abhira Bhabhi. But seriously-are you sure you can walk?"

"I have to," Abhira said determinedly, brushing off the dust from her coat. "The hearing is today, and I'm already late."

Krish sighed, clearly frustrated but unable to argue against her resolve. He handed her the keys to the house. "Fine. But don't you dare act like you're indestructible, okay?"

Abhira managed a faint smile. "I'll manage, Krish. Thank you for showing up."

Aryaan frowned. "This isn't over. We'll track down those idiots."

"I know," Abhira said softly. "But right now, I need to be in that courtroom."

The three of them shared a quiet moment, Krish and Aryaan exchanging glances before finally nodding.

"Chalo, I'll drop you," Krish said, grabbing her bag. "You're not running around alone anymore."

Abhira gave a small nod, limping slightly as they made their way to the car. She turned to Aryaan, "Aryaan is building ke gate ki cctv footage pls nikalwake mujhe send karoge."

Aryaan nodded and despite the pain and the injuries, Abhira's determination was unshaken. Ashok will not win, she thought, her jaw set firmly.

As they drove off, Abhira looked back one last time at the now-empty road, vowing silently to fight harder than ever.

*..*..*..*..*..*

This was getting longer so had to split it into two parts.

Next chapter will be the last of this flashback series and we head for the Charu and abhimaan meet in Mumbai.

Will update the Marriage of Convenience book tonight.

~TheLostSoul