Ivaan sits curled up on the large chesterfield in the corner of the living room, flipping through a picture book.

His act reminds me of last night, how I found his mother sitting in the same position with a book in her hand.

Like mother like son.

Eventhough Tinkerbell is not this little monkey's mother, but seeing them together hardly makes me believe the fact.

He glances up nervously when I enter.

"Good morning, Ivaan," I say in my steady voice.

Ivaan mumbles a nearly inaudible reply, dropping his gaze back to the pages.

I settle myself on the sofa across from him. "That looks like a very interesting book. May I know what it's about?" Damn, why I feel like I am talking to a little version of my wife.

Ivaan shyly holds up the book to show him the cover. "It's about explorer mice who go on adventures."

"Ah, fascinating. I always wondered what mice might up to," I say, eyes twinkling slightly.

Ivaan relaxes a little bit and starts softly telling me about the explorer mice's quest to find treasure.

After a while, "You know, Ivaan, I have a large collection of books in my study. Would you like to come choose some new books to read?" Ivaan's eyes widen but he nods eagerly.

"Wonderful. Let's go see my study." I pick Ivaan in my arms, his cheeks turning a light shade of pink with shyness.

As we enter the study, his eyes grow round as he takes in the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves lining the walls, packed with more books than he's ever seen. I gently put him down.

"Go ahead and look around," I encourage.

"What kinds of books do you like?" Ivaan wanders slowly along the shelves, one small hand trailing over the leather spines. "I like books with animals...and fairy tales..." he says quietly.

I join him and select a beautifully illustrated edition of Rudyard Kipling's Just So Stories.

"These are some of my favorites from when I was your age," I share. Ivaan holds the book carefully. Looking at me with fascination.

He flips through the pages of cats and whales and elephants, enchanted by the detailed pictures.

After a while, he looks up at me. "Will you read one to me?" he asks in a voice just above a whisper.

My stern face softens. "I would be delighted to," I reply, resting a gentle hand on his shoulder. We settle in plush armchairs by the window. Sunlight streams over us as I read aloud. Ivaan listens, perfectly content.

As I read the Just So Stories, my serious demeanor melts away. A small smile plays on my lips as I give each animal character a funny voice.

Ivaan listens with rapt attention, shoulders shaking with giggles at my dramatizations.

When I finish the story about how the elephant got its trunk, I see Ivaan's eyelids drooping sleepily. I carry him to the leather couch, draping a soft throw blanket over him.

"Rest here while I do some work, Ivaan," I say quietly.

He snuggles into the pillows, clutching the storybook. Seated at my desk, the scratching of my pen fills the comfortable silence. Now and then, I steal a glance at the napping boy.

I smile softly as I as watch Ivaan sleep, his small chest rising and falling rhythmically.

If someone would have told me that I'll be a married man with a responsibility of a kid in my 30s, I would have found it hard to believe.

I have always been distant with the idea of taking responsibilities in my personal life.

It's still an alien concept. However, as I look at the unexpected turns life has taken, I've come to realize that the very responsibilities I once distanced myself from have been handed down to me in the form of tinkerbell and this lil guy.

I don't know how am going to do it, all this is an unexplored territory for me.

I take a deep breath, the thoughts of the last few days striking me with full force. I have caused a strain in mine and Ishika's relationship. Though, I don't regret bringing the prenup in our marriage as it was really important for me to clear the boundaries.

But what I do hate are, my actions, because I know how sad she was with my words. I might be rude and come out a bit strict, but I hate the fact that I made a woman cry.

Her not being my type, how I hate her, belittling her, It's utter bullshit.

And now it's time I challenge my own biases, she deserves respect and an open-minded approach, and I'll give my best to break free from such perspective.

I sigh, the future uncertain. But watching Ivaan's chest rise and fall in untroubled sleep, I feel a glimmer of hope.

I know I have much to learn about being a nurturing father figure. My own upbringing was cold and stern, leaving me emotionally distant.

But seeing this sweet child's small hand clutching the storybook, I feel my heart soften. Perhaps this is the greatest adventure life has yet offered me.

I notice Tink entering my study, a surprised expression on her face as she finds Ivaan peacefully asleep on the couch. She hesitates in the doorway, maintaining a formal tone.

"I didn't mean to intrude. I was just looking for Ivaan," she says.

I glance up from my desk, assuring her, "It's no intrusion. We were reading, and he got sleepy. I didn't want to disturb him."

Ishika nods, moving to gently smooth back Ivaan's hair as he sleeps. "Thank you for keeping an eye on him," she says politely, the distance between us still palpable.

"Of course. He's a good boy," I reply, glancing at him.

An awkward moment passes before Ishika gathers the drowsy Ivaan into her arms.

" Should I help? He's a lil heavy for you to carry him." I say cautiously.

I hesitate for a moment, unsure of how'll she take my offer.

She looks at me, surprised, and then seems to consider it. "If you don't mind," she says, a hint of gratitude in her voice.

I stand up, moving closer to her, and gently take Ivaan from her arms. He stirs slightly but remains asleep as I carefully adjust his weight. Tinkerbell watches, and for a brief moment, there's a shared understanding between us.

"Thank you," She whispers, a tight smile on her lips.

"No problem," I reply, I give her an assured glance. I follow her as she leads the way out of the study, navigating the corridors with a sleeping Ivaan in my arms.

As we reach Ivaan's room, Tink prepares to take him back. "I appreciate your help," she says, sincerity in her eyes.

"It was my pleasure," I respond genuinely.

"Tinkerbell, I have some work at the office today. I'll be back later in the evening if you need help with anything, just let Dhriti or Nikhil know ."

"Sure," she replies with a hint of negligence.

Ishika is still not in terms with the fact of having a secretary and a security Guard on her toe.

"But if you don't mind can I ask you something?" A soft red ting covers the tip of her nose and ears.

"Sure."

She looks up at me, a tentative expression on her face. "Why do you call me Tinkerbell?"

That question catches in me surprise. Didn't think she'll ever ask me that.

I step close to her, a tight lipped expression on my face. Though I know how hard I am controlling to not smile seeing the uncertainty in her eyes.

I look deep into her eyes, " You remind me of the fairy- tiny, petite and full of spirit. You might have a tight control on your toung but your expressive face reflect your emotions perfectly." I explain gently.

I smirk mentally, noticing how fitting the nickname is for my tiny little wife. Her petite little frame contrasting with my tall stature.

"Ohhh..." she responds softly, a breathy sound lingers in the space between us. I notice a delicate blush tinging her cheeks.

"I should head to the office now, take care." Giving in to the irresistible urge, I swipe a stray strand of her hair away from her face, not missing the quiver of her lips.

"Oke...y but what about the breakfast?"

"I'll have it in the office itself." I inform her earning a nod in return.

~ISHIKA~

I hum quietly as I enter the kitchen and begin gathering ingredients for tomato rice. The early morning sunlight is streaming cheerfully through the windows. As I take out the basmati rice, my thoughts drift back to this morning before Abhiraj left for work.

I still feel a little flutter in my stomach remembering that interaction. I like having nicknames, it makes me feel special. And his touch, the tingles can be still felt on my face...

My daydreaming is suddenly interrupted by the loud ringing of my phone on the counter. I glance at the caller ID and a smile spreads across my face as I see it's my best friend from college, Amayra, video calling me.

"Helooooooo, What's up Girl?" I answer excitedly as I accept the call.

Amayra's voice bubbles through the phone. "Roomieee! Oh my gosh, look at you, you have changed so much. YOU HAD A GLOW UP!"

I laugh, taking in her brightly grinning face on my phone screen.

"Even you! How long has it been, two years?"

"Too long!" Amayra declares dramatically. We launch into catching up, our words tumbling over each other. She asks me all about my life after college and I give her the abridged, positive version, not ready to unpack the complexities

When I tell her about little Ivaan living with me, she clutches her heart.

"You're a mom now too? I'm crying, Ishika, I need to meet this cutie! Last I saw him, he was in arms of Mahira, a month old baby. Send photos!"

I laugh and oblige with more pictures, touched by her enthusiasm.

However, her next question brings an uneasy knot to my stomach. "Okay, enough stalling," Amayra says, her expression shifting to one of eager curiosity. "Tell me how this arranged marriage happened!"

"It was all quite sudden. Our parents suggested the match since his family is so well-off and respected. And he was looking for a wife." I tell her with nitpick words.

"And you...A Husband? Seriously!" Amayra arches her brow.

I laugh at Amayra's dramatic reaction.

"I know, I know, it sounds crazy old-fashioned. But it kind of made sense at the time."

"Girl, you're an Idiot!" Amayra shakes her head in amusement. "So what, you just agreed to marry some random businessman? Bro in our group you were the one who always used to dream of love marriage and a destination wedding.

And now just because of your so-called family, forget destination wedding, you didn't even invite your friends. "

I wince. She's right that agreeing to an arranged marriage went against my over the top romantic dreams I always shared with her.

Choosing my words carefully, "You're not wrong - this whole thing has been really out of character for me. And I'm sorry I didn't involve my friends more or have a proper wedding celebration." I reply.

I pause, considering how to explain further. "I guess when my parents were so set on this match, and the threats from dadi, it felt the only option at the time."

Amayra shakes her head but her eyes show empathy rather than judgment. "I get it, families can pressure us in ways that don't make sense from the outside. I just hope this guy appreciates the wonderful woman he's married."

"Thank you, Amayra. That means a lot. Abhiraj can be reserved but we're learning to connect as partners. And hey, maybe one day we'll have a vow renewal ceremony and you'll all be there!" I smile softly.

"Aww! My hopeful roomie. And Ishika - I'm always here if you need to talk, no judgements. Just want you to be happy." Amayra grins.

I feel my throat clogging with the sincerity she is treating me with.

"But enough about all that - the question is, are you still applying for that PhD program we always said we'd do together?" Amayra's expression grows serious then, although her eyes still dance playfully.

I bite my lip, hesitating. With my focus on Ivaan and the marriage pressure, my academic dreams have fallen by the wayside.

Sensing my doubt, Amayra presses on. "Come on, Ishika! We planned this since three years. You have to apply, your research is groundbreaking! Don't let our plan fizzle."

As she speaks, I remember of how passionate I used to be about research. She's right, I can't let go of this lifelong goal so easily, It always had my heart.

"You know what, Amayra? I'm doing this. I'll apply this week!"

"Yes! Let's go, future Dr. Ishika!" Amayra shrieks out in excitement, making me laugh.

But my smile dazzle away as I remember the major obstacle. LOAN. The million bucks which I have borrowed from Bashar's. And with the debt plus Ivaan's education I am incapabale to handle my living expenses in US and the university fees.

" Amayra the thing is, the university is in the US. I'll need to get an education loan for the fees and living costs, since my family won't support the decision. Plus do you remember I took a loan from Bashar's, don't know if I can manage..."

"Bashar's? You mean the one Aryan introduced us to?" She asks worriedly. " I thought you paid it off last to last year."

"No. After Ivaan I asked them to reduce my monthly principle amount because of which my years increased and interest as well." I sigh.

"But you aware they are into shady business, right?"

I nod in reluctance. " Yeah, they have already given me an ultimatum. But I'll do something soon."

Amayra hums thoughtfully. "Maybe you could explain the situation to Abhiraj? He seems well-off, perhaps he could help cover the remainder of what you owe Bashar's? And secondly you can't delay their debt, otherwise you might get into trouble."

I frown, doubtful. We already have a strain in our relationship. Asking him for a large sum of money...No. I never asked my father, and I am not going to ask my husband either. I'll look like a gold-digger to the family.

"I don't know, Amayra...I'll have to think about it. Abhiraj is still quite reserved."

"Just consider it," Amayra suggests gently. "He is your husband, he'll want you to achieve your dream."

"I'll talk to him about this." No I won't. I'll think of something else. Maybe I'll also look for the scholarship option if the University is offering, atleast one problem will be solved.

And the constant warnings I am getting from there men, I can't leave India without solving the matter. My family can't know about it.

Our call ends soon after, leaving me with the new tension to ponder upon. Applying will be challenging with my new family obligations, plus all the mess I have created in my college life and the duties of Ivaan.

Damn, I need some help.

To be continued...

Hello Reader's...

Here's the new update ... Hope you all liked it.

So what do you think of Abhiraj now?

And Ishika, the girl is plannig to leave to US... And DEBT...

What's all this She has got herself into....

Secondly Reader's I have an Insta account Where I am constantly Post ing about the characters and updates.

You all are missing a lot... Follow me soon to know about Ishika and Abhiraj... Graphically.

Account: the.i_s_h_u

Next update soon... Till then enjoy and don't forget to👇