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

The courtroom was heavy with tension as Sanjay stood at the center, his voice echoing through the silent chamber. He confidently handed a document to the judge and gestured toward Manish Goenka, who sat in the witness stand, visibly shaken.

"Your Honor," Sanjay began, his voice smooth and calculated. "This document clearly shows that Mr. Manish Goenka willingly handed over the disputed property to Mr. Ashok. It bears his signature, as you can see." He paused for effect before adding, "It is unfortunate that Mr. Goenka now claims ignorance, all for the sake of monetary gain."

The judge adjusted his glasses and looked at Manish. "Mr. Goenka, is this your signature?"

Manish Goenka's face turned red with frustration as he shot to his feet. "No, Your Honor! This is a lie-I never signed such a document! This is forged!"

Sanjay smirked, tilting his head slightly. "Interesting," he said smugly. "So now you're trying to change the narrative, Mr. Goenka? Let me remind the court that this man has a history of financial issues. It seems convenient to deny such agreements now that he's being offered more money elsewhere."

"Objection!" a strong voice cut through the tension.

The judge glanced toward the courtroom doors as Abhira entered, walking with an unmistakable air of confidence. Despite the bruises hidden beneath her sleeves and the limp she carried, she exuded determination that immediately caught everyone's attention.

"Ms. Abhira Sharma, I see you've joined us," the judge remarked, glancing at her entrance. "Please approach the bench."

Abhira nodded, walking forward steadily as Sanjay stepped aside, glaring at her. She set her files on the table before addressing the judge. "Your Honor, I apologize for the delay. I would like the opportunity to cross-examine both the document and Mr. Ashok's claims."

The judge motioned for her to proceed.

Abhira picked up the document Sanjay had presented and began to study it carefully. Her brows furrowed as she examined the signature and the dates mentioned, her mind racing as she connected the dots. Slowly, she turned toward Manish.

"Mr. Goenka," she said calmly. "Can you confirm the dates when you were out of the city for business meetings between this and the previous hearing?"

Manish nodded. "Yes. I was out from the 11th to the 13th of last week."

Abhira turned to the document and pointed to the signature date. "Your Honor, the document claims that Mr. Goenka signed this on the 12th-during the period when he was not even in town. I have here Mr. Goenka's flight and hotel records as evidence. Also the courts orders that allow him travel are also a testament for the same."

Sanjay's smirk faltered slightly. "That proves nothing, Ms. Sharma. Signatures can be arranged ahead of time."

Abhira didn't miss a beat. "That brings me to my second point, Your Honor Can we pls have the inhouse handwriting expert to examine the documents." She pulled out another set of document and present it to the expert.

"Mr. Goenka can you pls sign this sheet once again and show me?" Manish did as the expert had adviced him to.

"The signature analysis report comparing Mr. Goenka's previous verified signatures and also his current signature to the one on this so-called agreement," The handwriting expert addressed the court and handed the report to the judge. "The reprot confirmed that the signature presented here is forged."

The judge looked at the report, his expression serious. "Mr. Sanjay, do you have anything to say about this?"

Sanjay shifted uncomfortably. "This is irrelevant-"

"It's entirely relevant," Abhira interrupted sharply. She turned to Ashok, who was now looking visibly nervous. "Mr. Ashok," she said, her tone direct and commanding. "You've gone to great lengths to get your hands on this property, haven't you? First by forgery, and now by intimidation."

"Objection!" Sanjay barked. "Your Honor, she's making baseless claims!"

"I have evidence," Abhira said firmly. She pulled out her phone and passed the same to the judge. The photos from her phone-evidence of the bruises on her arms, taken earlier that morning, and video surveillance from nearby stores showing the SUV and the men who attacked her.

"These are the men who tried to stop me from reaching this court today," Abhira stated, her voice unwavering. She turned to Ashok. "Mr. Ashok, do you deny that these men are working under your orders?"

Ashok hesitated, looking around the room nervously.

"Answer the question!" Abhira pressed.

Sanjay's voice wavered as he tried to interject, but the judge raised a hand. "Let her continue."

Abhira stepped closer, her eyes piercing into Ashok. "You've been using illegal means to seize something that was never yours. You thought you could silence me with your goons. But let me remind you, the law doesn't bow to people like you."

Ashok finally cracked under the pressure. "Fine!" he shouted, his voice echoing. "Yes, I arranged the attack! But I didn't forge the document-"

"You just admitted to sending the attackers, Mr. Ashok," Abhira cut in, her voice rising. "That's more than enough to prove your guilt."

The courtroom buzzed with murmurs as the judge banged his gavel. "Order in the court!"

After reviewing the evidence thoroughly, the judge delivered his ruling. "The court finds the document in question to be forged and declares it null and void. Furthermore, Mr. Ashok is held accountable for orchestrating acts of intimidation and physical harm toward Ms. Abhira Sharma."

The sound of victory echoed in Abhira's heart as relief washed over Manish Goenka, who thanked her profusely. Sanjay stood at the defense table, defeated, while Ashok's face paled as security officers moved toward him.

Abhira gathered her files, a small smile playing on her lips. She had done it-not just for Manish Goenka but for justice. As she walked out of the courtroom, her gaze shifted toward the courtroom doors, where she suddenly saw Armaan rushing in, his face filled with panic and concern. "Abhira!" he called, making his way straight to her.

"Armaan?" she whispered in surprise.

Without a second thought, he cupped her face and scanned her bruises and scratches as he made her sit on the bench nearby. His movements were frantic yet gentle, his eyes searching her face for any signs of serious injury. "Are you okay? Where else does it hurt? Did you lose your mind taking them on alone?"

"Armaan, calm down," Abhira said, trying to steady him as he checked her hands, arms, and shoulders.

"What are you doing here?" she asked, confused. "You had a meeting with Mr. Kapoor to finalize the deal for the firm!"

Armaan froze for a second, his eyes narrowing. "Meeting? To hell with the meeting" he repeated incredulously. "You think I care about that deal right now? I just found out you were attacked by Ashok's men, and you're sitting here talking about meetings?"

"Armaan-"

"No, Abhira!" he interrupted firmly, his voice rising just a bit. "You didn't think it was important to tell me? You hid this from me? I would've been here earlier if I hadn't reached the court!"

He turned to Krish, who stood nearby, looking sheepish. "Bring me a first aid box. Now!"

The clerk quickly handed Armaan the kit. Armaan opened it with slightly trembling hands and started tending to her wounds, applying antiseptic to a cut on her hand. "This is exactly why I didn't want you handling this case," he muttered under his breath, frustration evident in his tone. "I told you something like this could happen, and look! It did."

Abhira winced slightly as he dabbed at a bruise on her arm. "It's not that bad, Armaan. I handled it."

He shot her a sharp look. "Handled it? You're hurt, Abhira! And you're sitting here pretending like nothing happened."

Abhira sighed and glanced at Krish, silently asking him what had happened. Krish tilted his head toward Aryaan, who was standing behind him, holding his ears guiltily like a child caught red-handed.

Abhira let out an exasperated sigh and facepalmed. "Aryaan Sa."

Armaan noticed the silent exchange and huffed, shaking his head. "Us bache pe kyun chila rahi ho? Even you knew this would happen! But no, Ms. Sharma here is too stubborn to listen to anyone." He finished tending to her wounds, closed the first aid box with an audible snap, and stood up abruptly. "I'm done. You're impossible."

"Armaan-"

But Armaan turned and began walking out of the courtroom, his frustration still clear on his face. Abhira stared after him for a moment before a mischievous smile appeared on her lips. Without warning, she sprinted after him and jumped on his back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders.

"Abhira!" Armaan exclaimed, startled as he caught hold of her arms to steady her. "Get down!"

"No!" she said, grinning, her lips close to his ear. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" she sang in a soft, playful tone, over and over again.

"Abhira, stop it," Armaan growled, though his voice lacked any real anger. "People are watching! Get off!"

But Abhira only giggled and clung tighter. "Not until you forgive me. Say it. Say you forgive me!"

The courtroom, which had been busy and bustling a moment ago, suddenly paused as people turned to look at the scene unfolding. A few clerks and lawyers chuckled quietly while others outright laughed at the sheer adorableness of the two.

"Abhira!" Armaan hissed again, his face red now-not from anger, but embarrassment. "You're creating a scene!"

"Say you forgive me," she sang again, pressing her cheek to his.

"You're impossible!" Armaan muttered, but a smile finally tugged at the corner of his lips.

"Forgiven?" she asked sweetly.

"Fine. Forgiven," he said in defeat, his tone softening completely.

"Good!" Abhira grinned triumphantly, loosening her hold but still clinging to him as he adjusted her weight on his back.

As they finally made their way out of the courtroom, laughter and smiles followed them. Armaan shook his head, muttering something about "this stubborn woman," but his heart felt lighter. Despite everything, in that moment, he knew Abhira was his greatest strength-and he wouldn't have it any other way.

In the court's parking lot, Armaan finally put Abhira down, his arms lingering around her waist as he scanned her face one last time for any signs of discomfort. Just as he pulled her into a warm hug, he murmured, "Are you really okay? Tell me the truth, Abhira."

She smiled softly against his chest, her fingers curling into his shirt. "Yes, Armaan. I promise. I'm okay now."

Before Armaan could say more, Dev came out of his car with a concerned expression. "Abhira, are you alright?"

Abhira turned to face Dev, flashing her usual reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Dev Sir. I'm fine. It's just a few scratches; I've been through worse."

Dev frowned but nodded reluctantly, his concern still visible. "You sure?"

"Yes, absolutely. Armaan's already fussed enough over me." She glanced at Armaan playfully, who only huffed in response. "Now, you two have important work to do. Armaan, you should go for the meeting with Mr. Kapoor. Everything's fine here; I'll head home with Krish and Aryaan."

Armaan looked at her skeptically, reluctant to leave her side. "Abhira..."

"Armaan, trust me." She reached up to straighten his shirt collar, her voice calm yet firm. "You've worked hard for this deal. You need to be there, and I'll be fine with these two," she said, gesturing toward Krish and Aryaan, who were standing sheepishly nearby.

Armaan sighed in defeat, pulling her close again for a brief hug. "Call me the moment you reach home, understood?"

"Understood, Mr. Poddar." She saluted him teasingly.

As Armaan turned to Dev, Abhira quickly added, "Dev Sir, you're invited for a small get-together at home tonight. We're celebrating Armaan's birthday."

Dev's face lit up slightly but then his expression hardened. "Of course, I would have loved to be there. But i have some commitments to attend to."

Abhira looked at him and she could make out what was going on hence she did not push him further.

Armaan, still glancing back worriedly as he walked toward Dev's car, finally waved her off. "Go straight home, Abhira!"

Once Armaan and Dev drove off, Abhira turned toward Krish and Aryaan with narrowed eyes and folded arms. "So... how exactly did Armaan find out?"

Krish sighed dramatically, pointing an accusing finger at Aryaan. "Bhaiya spotted us in the court because he was here to pick up some documents, and this stupid Aryaan told him everything."

Aryaan, looking guilty, scratched the back of his head. "I didn't know he'd react like that!"

"Oh, Aryaan Sa!" Abhira groaned, her face scrunching in frustration before she playfully grabbed his ear. "Why do you open your mouth at the worst times?"

"Ow, ow, sorry, Abhira Bhabhi!" Aryaan laughed, squirming under her hold. Krish chuckled beside them, enjoying the moment.

Abhira finally let go with a grin and shook her head. "Come on, let's go home. There's still so much to do for Armaan's birthday. Kiara and Charu have already started with the decorations; we need to finish the preparations before he gets home."

"Yes, ma'am!" Krish saluted her teasingly, earning a playful glare from Abhira as they all walked toward their car.

As they drove home, Abhira leaned back in her seat, her heart brimming with warmth and determination. Despite the chaos of the day, she was determined to give Armaan a birthday that would make him forget all his worries, even if just for a day.

________

When Abhira reached home, the house was already abuzz with activity. Kiara and Charu had taken over the living room, unfurling fairy lights and carefully arranging balloons in Armaan's favorite shades of deep blue, white and black. Krish immediately jumped in, rolling up his sleeves. "Alright, team! Let's make this place scream 'Happy Birthday, Armaan Bhaiya!'"

Abhira smiled at his enthusiasm, grabbing a roll of ribbon. "Let's do this, guys! No slacking, or I'll make Aryaan blow up all the balloons by himself."

"Yeh har aisi situation ke andar main kaise fas jata hun!" Aryaan protested, already struggling with an inflated balloon. "That's unfair, Abhira Bhabhi. You know I hate balloons."

The room burst into laughter as Abhira playfully rolled her eyes. "Well then, work faster, lazybones!"

As the hours passed, the group became a whirlwind of energy. Abhira climbed on a stool to hang a banner, grumbling about how tall Armaan must feel every day. "Seriously, does this guy live in a world of high ceilings? My arms are dying here!"

Charu laughed, steadying the stool. "Bhabhi aap upar kyun chade, yeh khambe jaisa lamba Krish kis din kaam aayega."

Kiara nodded in agreement "Armaan will never forgive us if you injure yourself Bhabhi, isseleye aap neeche aao krish bhai kardenge."

Krish helped abhira down and climbed the stool to put the banner. Abhira stood beside him holding up an end of the banner. "Focus, Krish! Armaan will love this. We're almost done."

Kiara, meanwhile, was busy arranging flowers on the dining table. "So, Abhira Bhabhi" she teased, "what's your big surprise for Armaan? Don't tell me you didn't plan anything!"

Abhira, caught off guard, stammered. "Of course, I did! You'll see soon enough."

Aryaan smirked. "C'mon, Abhira Bhabhi, give us a hint. Is it something romantic? Sentimental? Or are you just writing him a love note?"

The gang erupted in laughter as Abhira threw a cushion at Aryaan. "Stop it! You'll all find out in good time."

Finally, as the sun began to set, the group sat down in the living room, the center table piled high with wrapping paper, ribbons, and scattered gifts. Each of them had brought something special for Armaan.

Krish carefully wrapped a leather-bound journal. "I figured he'd like something to jot down his thoughts. You know, with all that lawyering and stuff."

Charu nodded, holding up a sleek pen. "And this will go perfectly with it. Personalized, of course!"

Aryaan chimed in, showing off a small globe. "It's a little symbolic. Armaan bhaiya has always been our guide. I figured it'd be a good reminder of that."

Kiara smiled, placing a small bonsai tree in a box. "He's always been so patient with us. This is to remind him that growth takes time, but it's always worth it."

All eyes turned to Abhira, who hesitated for a moment before pulling out a carefully wrapped box. "Okay, okay, fine. I'll show you mine."

She unwrapped the box to reveal a beautiful handmade scrapbook. "I managed to find pictures from Armaan's childhood. Most of them were from the albums Shivani ma had kept. I thought... maybe he'd like to see how much he's been loved, even before he knew it."

The room fell silent for a moment as everyone admired the effort Abhira had put in. Krish broke the silence with a grin. "Bhabhi, you're going to make us all look bad with this. It's too good!"

Charu wiped away a mock tear. "You're such a romantic. Armaan's going to cry, I just know it."

Abhira blushed, shrugging. "It's not about making him cry. It's just... I wanted him to feel connected to his roots, to his mom, and to all the love he's had in his life."

Aryaan leaned back, smirking. "Well, we're all set then. Let's see who wins the best gift title tonight."

The group burst into laughter again, their camaraderie filling the house with warmth and joy as they prepared for the big moment.

________

The Poddar Mansion echoed with Sanjay’s thunderous voice as he stormed into the hall, his face twisted with rage. “Kajal! Kajal, where are you?” he bellowed, his footsteps heavy against the marble floor. 

Kajal appeared from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel, startled by his tone. “Kya hua Ji? Why are you shouting?” 

Sanjay’s eyes blazed as he pointed a finger at her. “Do you even know where your children are right now?” 

Kajal frowned, confused. “Krish is at his class, and Charu went to a friend’s house. What’s wrong with that?” 

With a furious growl, Sanjay swept his coat off his shoulder and hurled it onto the couch. “Wrong? You don’t even know they’re both at Armaan’s house, celebrating his birthday, along with Kiara and Aryaan!” 

“What?” Kajal gasped, her face paling. 

Before she could respond, Kaveri entered the hall, her expression stern. “What is all this noise about? Jamai Sa, kya baat hai ?” 

Sanjay turned to her, his frustration spilling over. “Maa Saa, do you hear this? Our children are at that woman’s house. Abhira, the girl who humiliated me in court today, has now lured my kids into celebrating that home-breaker Armaan’s birthday!” 

Madhav, who had been reading in the adjacent room, walked in, his calm demeanor intact. “Enough Sanjay, you’re crossing limits. They’re just kids. Let them enjoy a little. Stop calling my kids names and For God's sake stop overreacting.” 

“Overreacting?” Sanjay scoffed, turning on him. “How can I not? Abhira has been tarnishing our family’s reputation, defeating me in court, and now even influencing our children!” 

At this, Manoj stepped forward, his voice firm. “Enough, Jija Sa! Abhira didn’t tarnish anyone’s reputation. She fought for the truth and won a case, against whom you were wrongly fighting. Shouldn’t you be ashamed for siding with the wrong people instead of lashing out?” 

Manisha, standing by Manoj, nodded in agreement. “Jija Sa, you keep calling Armaan and Abhira home-breakers, but it was Armaan’s hard work that kept this family afloat for years. If anyone’s tarnishing this family’s name, it’s you.” 

Ruhi, who had been silently observing, finally interjected, her voice dripping with disdain. “It’s always Abhira, isn’t it? The great savior. But let’s not forget, she’s the one who’s tearing this family apart. First Armaan, now the children.” 

Vidya shot her a sharp look. “Ruhi, Abhira fought for your Nanu Today. If it weren’t for her, we’d have lost everything to Ashok. Don’t forget that.” 

Before the argument could escalate further, Kaveri’s voice sliced through the air, cold and sharp. “Enough! All of you, stop this nonsense right now!” 

The room fell silent as everyone turned to her. Kaveri’s eyes narrowed as she addressed them. “That girl, Abhira, has done nothing but bring chaos to this family. And Armaan? He’s an outsider, a nobody who’s finally showing his true colors.” 

Madhav, standing tall, stepped forward, his voice steady and unyielding. “Aab bas bhi kariye Maa Sa. Armaan is my son. My blood. And I won’t let anyone, not even you, insult him.” 

Vidya, her voice calm but resolute, added, “It’s Armaan’s birthday today. If you all can’t set aside your petty grudges for one day, we will. Madhav Ji, Manoj, Manisha, and I are going to celebrate with him, and there’s nothing any of you can do to stop us.” 

As the four of them walked out, leaving a stunned silence behind, Ruhi turned to Dadi sa, her voice soft but manipulative. “Dadi sa, can’t you see what’s happening? Abhira’s influence is poisoning this family. First Armaan, then the children and the now even Maa. She’s turning everyone against us.” 

Dadi sa’s eyes darkened, her hands tightening around the armrest of her chair as Ruhi’s words sank in. She had to find a solution soon. Abhira Sharma was becoming a never ending headache.

_________

As the evening descended, Armaan returned back to the place he now called home. The faint hum of laughter and music drifted toward him, bringing a smile to his face. He stepped inside to find the living room beautifully decorated with fairy lights and balloons. The chorus gang was busy adding finishing touches while Abhira lit the candles on the table. 

“Finally, the man of the hour graces us with his presence!” Krish teased, throwing a balloon at Armaan. 

Armaan caught it, chuckling. “Well, I hope I have given you all enough time to plan my grand surprise, didn’t I?” 

Vidya walked over, her face glowing with warmth. “Happy birthday, beta,” she said, pulling him into a tight hug. She then picked brought out a small box with ladoos. Ladoos she made On his birthday for the puja, ladoos he did not like much but appreciated enough. She held a piece of ladoo and fed him with her hands. “First bite for the birthday boy, as per tradition.” 

“Thank you, Maa,” Armaan replied, his voice thick with emotion. 

The celebration soon kicked into high gear. Manoj and Madhav pulled Armaan onto the makeshift dance floor in the living room, cueing up an old Bollywood number. “Chal, beta, let’s see if you’ve inherited my moves,” Madhav said, winking. 

The chorus gang joined in, clapping and cheering as Armaan tried to keep up with Madhav and Manoj’s antics. Vidya laughed, shaking her head at their antics, while Abhira took over the music system. 

When a slower, romantic tune played, Manisha extended her hand toward Armaan with a playful grin. “Shall we?” 

Armaan chuckled, taking her hand. “I can’t say no to my sabse pretty Chachi Sa” They swayed lightly to the music, Armaan occasionally spinning her around to the cheers of everyone watching. 

Soon, it was time for the cake. The table was set with a simple yet elegant chocolate cake, topped with a small “Happy Birthday, Armaan” written in white frosting. Armaan’s eyes softened as he looked at it. “You remembered,” he said, looking at Abhira, who gave him a small, knowing smile. 

“Of course,” she replied softly. 

The room quieted as Armaan closed his eyes and made his wish. “I don’t need much,” he whispered to himself. “Just this—my family, my loved ones, together and Abhira.” He then blew out the candles, and everyone erupted in applause. 

As slices of cake were passed around, Krish smeared a dollop of frosting on Armaan’s cheek, starting a mini food fight. The room filled with laughter as everyone joined in, smearing frosting and laughing like children. 

As the evening wound down, Vidya brought out a basket filled with neatly wrapped gifts and placed it in front of Armaan. “These are from all of us,” she said warmly. 

Manisha and Manoj handed over the first gift from the basket. “This is from us—a set of cufflinks. I know how much you love a good classic look.” 

Krish and Charu followed with their gift. “For all the lawyer things you need to jot down,” he joked, “or maybe just your thoughts. Either way, it’s special,” she added.

Aryan and Kaira sheepishly handed over their gifts. “We thought to gift you something that reminds you of what u mean to us.” 

Armaan’s eyes glistened as he looked at the picture. “Thank you,” he whispered, voice choked with emotion. 

Finally, Madhav and Vidya handed him gift. She placed a carefully wrapped package in his hands. “This… this is something Madhav Ji had kept safe for years, memories of your mother,” she said, her voice soft.

Armaan look at the gift, them at Vidya who was looking at him with mosit yes but no hate or regret. His hands trembled as he took the wrapped box but did not open it. He hugged madhav feeling overwhelmed.

"Main yeh sab isseleye sambhal ke rakha tha taki ek din jab tu mujhse shivani ke baar main puche toh mere pass tujhe batane ke liye kuch ho." Madhav smiled at his son "Aaj se yeh teri amanat hai."

Armaan pulled him into a tight hug, his voice trembling. “Thank you, Papa. For everything.” 

__________

After the family left, leaving the house quiet once more, it was just Armaan and Abhira. She was tidying up when she felt him walk up behind her, locking the door before turning toward her. Without a word, he his knees gave up as if the weight of everything was to much to hold. His hands slipped around her waist pulling her close. He buried his face in her abdomen, his nose brushing against her body as he inhaled deeply, trying to hide himself from the world.  

“Thank you,” he murmured against her skin. 

“For what?” she asked softly, her fingers threading into his hair. 

“For giving me the best birthday I’ve ever had. For making me feel like I belong somewhere. For loving me,” he said, his voice husky with emotion. 

Abhira pulled back slightly, cupping his face. “Armaan, you’ve always belonged. It just took some time for the world to catch up to how amazing you are.” 

He smiled faintly, but burried himself into her body once again. “Today… it felt like the child in me, the one who always craved love and attention, was finally seen. You brought that to me.” 

She leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his head. “You deserve all of it, Armaan. Every bit of love, every moment of happiness.” 

His hands tightened around her waist. “You’re my happiness, Abhira. Everything else is a bonus.” 

They stood there in the middle of the hall, basking in the warmth and intimacy of the moment. The day had been a celebration not just of Armaan’s life but of the love and support that had finally found its way to him, healing the wounds of his past.

Abhira smiled as she pulled back from their embrace, looking down at him with a glint of mischief in her eyes. “I have one more thing for you.” 

Armaan raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. “Another gift? Haven’t you spoiled me enough today?” 

“Trust me, you’ll like this one,” she teased, she pulled him up helping him to the sofa and turning towards their room to grab a small, neatly wrapped box from the nearby table. 

He took it from her hands, shaking it gently. “Hmm, feels light. Is this some kind of prank?” 

“Just open it,” she said, rolling her eyes playfully. 

He tore off the wrapping and opened the box, only to freeze when he saw what was inside. A pile of neatly packed imlie candies lay before him along with what seemed like a scrapbook. For a moment, he just stared at them, his breath catching. 

“Imlie candies…” he whispered, his voice trembling. “These…” 

Abhira’s smile softened as she watched his reaction. 

Armaan’s eyes grew misty as he looked at her. “How… how did you even know about these? Nobody’s brought them for me since I was a kid. They stopped being available, and I…” He swallowed hard, his voice breaking. “I’d even forgotten how they tasted.” 

Abhira stepped closer, brushing her fingers along his cheek. “Your Shivani Maa told me.” 

He blinked, confused. “Told you?” 

“In one of her diary entries. She wrote about how much you loved these candies as a child, how your face would light up every time she gave you one,” Abhira explained. “When I read it, I knew I had to get them for you.” 

“But… how?” 

Abhira’s smile widened. “Back in Mussoorie, we have an organic farm remember? These candies are made there using one of Mumma’s traditional recipe. I asked them to make a batch just for you.” 

Armaan picked up one of the candies, unwrapping it carefully. He popped it into his mouth and closed his eyes as the familiar tangy-sweet flavor exploded on his tongue. It was as if he’d been transported back to his childhood, to simpler, happier times. 

When he opened his eyes, they were shining with unshed tears. He pulled Abhira close, wrapping his arms around her tightly. “You… you’ve brought back a part of me I thought I’d lost forever,” he murmured against her hair. 

Abhira hugged him back, her voice soft. “You deserve every bit of joy, Armaan. And I’ll do everything I can to bring it to you.” 

He pulled back just enough to look at her, his gaze filled with love and vulnerability. “How did I get so lucky to have you?” 

“You’re the lucky one? I think I hit the jackpot with you.” she teased, her fingers brushing against his jaw. “Acha vo dusra gift bhi toh dekho na.” 

He opened it, he found an album filled with photos from his childhood, preserved by Shivani. Abhira had painstakingly arranged them, each accompanied by small handwritten notes about the memories behind them. 

He looked up at her, overwhelmed. “How did you even…” 

“Maa had them in her collection. I wanted to remind you of all the love she had for you, Armaan,” Abhira said, her eyes brimming with tears. 

He smiled faintly before leaning down to rest his forehead against her and whispered, “You’ve given me everything today. I don’t know how to thank you.” 

“Don’t thank me,” she replied, her voice trembling slightly. “Just be here with me, like this.” 

Armaan’s grip tightened around her as the moment deepened. They stood there, wrapped in each other, their hearts speaking in the silence of the night. Slowly, the shared warmth and vulnerability gave way to an intimate moment, where words became unnecessary and only the depth of their connection mattered. 

The warmth radiating between them was electric, their breaths mingling as their hearts beat in sync. His fingers lightly traced the curve of her back, igniting a trail of heat wherever they touched. 

Abhira clutched his shirt, her heart pounding as his kiss became more fervent, leaving no doubt of the passion he felt for her. He trailed kisses down her jawline, pausing at her neck to press soft, lingering kisses along her collarbone, causing her to shiver under his touch. 

“Armaan,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, yet it held a plea that made him pause and meet her gaze. 

His dark eyes searched hers, filled with love and unspoken promises, seeking her permission in response, she nodded, her eyes shimmering with trust and desire.

Their breaths became ragged as they surrendered to the moment, their hearts beating in perfect unison. Every kiss, every touch, was a declaration of the love and desire they held for each other, a celebration of the bond they shared. 

The night had settled into a peaceful quiet, the house illuminated only by the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the curtains. Abhira lay curled up against Armaan like a little bear, her petite frame snugly tucked into his side. Her exhaustion from the day’s excitement and activity was evident in the serene expression on her face, her soft breaths steady and rhythmic. 

Armaan, however, was wide awake. Propped up on his side with his elbow supporting him, he watched her intently. His free hand moved with deliberate gentleness, brushing stray strands of hair away from her face, his fingers tracing the delicate curve of her cheek. There was a tenderness in his eyes, a warmth that filled his heart as he took in every detail of her peaceful face. 

How did this miracle of a women ever fall in love with me? he thought, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Abhira had brought a light into his life that he hadn’t known was missing, a warmth that had melted away every bit of loneliness he had carried. She wasn’t just his wife; she was his solace, his strength, and the one person who made him feel complete. 

Suddenly, she stirred, her face scrunching slightly as she shifted in her sleep. Her hand reached out instinctively, finding his, and she clung to it as if seeking comfort. A shiver ran through her, and Armaan realized the room had grown colder. 

He leaned over, careful not to wake her, and grabbed his sweatshirt draped over the chair by the bed. It was oversized, long enough to envelop her small frame. Gently, he slipped it over her, ensuring she was snug and warm. 

As if sensing his care, Abhira moved again, her body instinctively shifting closer to him. She burrowed into his chest, her soft murmurs filling the silence. “I you love” she mumbled, her voice barely audible, but enough to make Armaan chuckle softly. 

He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close, his chin resting lightly on the top of her head. Her warmth seeped into him, her presence a balm for his soul. “I love you too Jaan,” he whispered, his lips brushing against her hair. “Always.” 

She settled against him, her breathing evening out once more, and Armaan couldn’t help but tighten his hold, as though shielding her from every trouble in the world. In that quiet moment, with Abhira nestled securely in his embrace, he felt a profound sense of peace. Nothing else mattered as long as she was by his side.

|| End of Flashback ||

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Excited for Abhimaan and Chorus Gang meeting in Mumbai ??

Next Update for Bounded by Fate comes tomorrow.

~TheLostSoul