Kartik is pacing back and forth in Ranbir's spacious, luxuriously decorated bedroom, holding a perfectly pressed black suit in one hand and a silk tie in the other. The room has an air of excitement as the family eagerly waits for Ranbir to make his appearance. Kartik is trying to focus, but he can't help feeling both proud and slightly exasperated with his younger brother.

Kartik: (murmuring to himself) "Yeh ladka! Har waqt duniya ka superstar hai, par jab apni pehli meeting ki baat aayi, toh woh bhi Prachi ke saath, ab tak tayaar nahi hai!" (This guy! He is the superstar of the world all the time, but when it comes to his first meeting, that too with Prachi, he is not ready yet!)

Kartik glances at his watch, sighing dramatically, and then knocks on the washroom door.

Kartik: "Ranbir! Bas kar yaar, andar kya fashion show chal raha hai? Jaldi aana, sab wait kar rahe hain neeche." (Ranbir! Stop it man, what fashion show is going on inside? Come quickly, everyone is waiting downstairs.)

Esha: For our baklu, everything is a fashion show 😜

Ranbir: (from inside, his voice muffled but playful) "Bhai, chill kar! Global heartthrob hoon, thoda time toh banta hai!" (Brother, chill out! I am a global heartthrob, there is a little time!)

Kartik: "Haan haan, global heartthrob. Par yeh mat bhool ki aaj tu apne life ke sabse important pal ke liye tayaar ho raha hai!" (Yes yes, global heartthrob. But don't forget that today you are getting ready for the most important moment of your life!)

Ranbir laughs from inside, but there's a hint of nervousness in his voice.

Ranbir: "Haan, important hai... but ab tak woh mujhe pasand bhi karegi ya nahi, yeh toh pata nahi." (Yes, it is important... but I still don't know whether she will like me or not.)

Esha: She will love you the most 💖

Kartik softens, his teasing tone giving way to reassurance.

Kartik: "Arey, Ranbir Kohli ho tum. Agar woh tumhe pasand nahi karegi, toh kisi ko nahi karegi. Tumhare jitna acha insaan maine nahi dekha." (Hey, you are Ranbir Kohli. If she doesn't like you, she won't like anyone else. I have never seen a person as good as you.)

There's a long pause, and then the sound of the bathroom lock clicking open. Kartik turns toward the door, his breath catching as Ranbir steps out.

The man emerging from the washroom isn't just Ranbir Kohli, the successful businessman or India's most eligible bachelor. He's a vision of charm, confidence, and elegance, looking like he just walked out of a magazine cover. Dressed in a tailored white suit that fits him like a second skin, his black shirt crisp and spotless, the silk tie perfectly knotted, and his hair styled in a way that screams effortless perfection, Ranbir looks otherworldly. His presence is magnetic, his aura unmissable.

Esha: Haye! He is the definition of Prince Charming!

Kartik's jaw drops slightly as he takes in his brother's transformation.

Kartik: "Oh. My. God. Ranbir, tu... tu toh international supermodel lag raha hai! Main kya boloon, yaar? Yeh kya kar liya tune?" (Oh. My. God. Ranbir, you... you are looking like an international supermodel! What can I say, man? What have you done?)

Ranbir: (grinning, adjusting his cufflinks) "Bas thoda sa effort, bhai. Tumhe kya lagta hai, main Prachi ke saamne kuch bhi pehen ke chala jaunga?" (Just a little effort, brother. What do you think, I will wear anything in front of Prachi?)

Kartik smirks, trying to hide his genuine admiration.

Kartik: "Effort toh hai, par tu bas suit pehen ke nahi, pura bazooka ban gaya hai! Prachi kya, pura India behosh ho jayega tujhe dekh ke!" (There is effort, but you are not just wearing a suit, you have become a complete bazooka! What Prachi, the whole of India will faint after seeing you!)

Ranbir: (laughing nervously, running a hand through his hair) "Bhai, bas karo. Pehli baar ho raha hai ki main genuinely nervous hoon." (Brother, stop it. This is the first time that I am genuinely nervous.)

Kartik: (playfully slapping Ranbir's shoulder) "Arey nervous mat ho, confidence hi tera superpower hai! Ab bas neeche chal, aur sabko dikhade ki Ranbir Kohli kya cheez hai." (Hey don't be nervous, confidence is your superpower! Now just walk down and show everyone what Ranbir Kohli is.)

Ranbir takes a deep breath and looks at himself in the full-length mirror, his expression softening. There's a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes, but it's quickly replaced by determination.

Ranbir: "Chalein, bhai?" (Shall we go, bro?)

Kartik: (nodding, his voice warm) "Chalein. Lekin Ranbir, ek baat yaad rakh. Jo bhi hoga, tu hum sabka favourite hai. Toh bas khud pe bharosa rakh." (Let's go. But Ranbir, remember one thing. Whatever happens, you are the favorite of all of us. So just trust yourself.)

The brothers exchange a quick smile before heading out of the room together, Kartik throwing an arm over Ranbir's shoulder as they walk toward the biggest moment of Ranbir's life.

The entire Kohli family is gathered in the mansion's grand hall, preparing to leave for Sheetgiri. Ranbir stands at the center, radiating charm in his perfectly tailored suit. Naira, looking like a vision in a pastel saree with minimal jewelry, walks in with Kairav, who's pulling along a small suitcase with great enthusiasm.

Kartik is beside Naitik, overseeing the final packing, while the family's staff loads the car. The mood is bustling yet emotional, with anticipation in the air.

Kairav: (whistling dramatically, eyes wide) "Wow, Chachu! Aap toh full-on hero lag rahe ho! Matlab, mujhe toh lag raha hai ki aap kisi film ki shooting pe ja rahe ho, Sheetgiri nahi."(Wow, uncle! You are looking like such a full-on hero! I mean, I feel as if you are going for the shooting of some film, not Sheetgiri.)

Esha: You have learned how to whistle too!

Ranbir laughs, bending down to ruffle Kairav's hair affectionately.

Ranbir: "Tu toh pehle hi mera fan hai, Kairav. Lekin hero tab banunga jab Prachi mujhe haan karegi." (You are already my fan, Kairav. But I will become a hero only when Prachi says yes to me.)

Kairav: (grinning cheekily) "Aap tension mat lo, Chachu. Main toh abhi se Prachi Chachi ke liye ready hoon!" (Don't worry, uncle. I am ready for Prachi aunty right now!)

Naira chuckles softly, adjusting her saree, while Kartik side-eyes her with a mischievous grin.

Kartik: (to Naira) "Mujhe lag raha hai, aaj ke baad Ranbir ko aur bhi zyada security chahiye hogi. Tumhe dekh kar toh Sheetgiri ke saare dulhe bhaag jaayenge!" (I feel that after today Ranbir will need even more security. Seeing you, all the grooms of Sheetgiri will run away!)

Naira blushes, playfully swatting Kartik's arm.

Naira: "Bas bas, Kartik. Tumhe toh bas mazaak sujhta hai. Tumhare chhote bhai ka sabse important din hai aaj." (That's it, Kartik. You just think it's a joke. Today is the most important day for your younger brother.)

Ranbir: (smirking, pulling Kartik into a quick hug) "Bhai ke bina toh yeh din complete hi nahi hoga, Bhabhi." (This day will not be complete without brother, sister-in-law.)

Naitik: (calling out) "Sab tayaar ho? Chalein?" (Is everything ready? let's go?)

Kartik, Ranbir, and Naira nod, but as they're about to step out, Naitik gestures for them to pause. He points toward a grand portrait on the far wall, surrounded by golden lights, marigold flowers, and small earthen diyas flickering softly.

Naitik: (his voice heavy with emotion) "Ek minute... chalte chalte ek baar Akshara ko dekh lena zaroori hai. Aaj agar tumhari Maa hoti, toh kitni khush hoti, Ranbir. Tumhe iss tarah tayaar dekh ke toh unka ladla, unka laadla sabse bada hero lagta." (One minute... before we go, it is necessary to see Akshara once. Today, if your mother was here, she would have been so happy, Ranbir. Seeing you dressed like this, her son, her most loved son seems like the biggest hero.)

The entire family turns to face the portrait of Akshara, her serene smile radiating warmth and love. The glow of the lights around it makes it seem almost alive. Ranbir's gaze fixes on the picture, his confident demeanor cracking as memories flood his mind.

Ranbir: (his voice breaking) "Maa..."(Mom)

Kartik places a comforting hand on Ranbir's shoulder, but it's not enough. Ranbir's lips quiver, and tears stream down his face as he walks closer to the portrait, his chest heaving with suppressed sobs.

Ranbir: (his voice trembling) "Maa, das saal ho gaye... das saal se ek din bhi nahi guzra jab maine aapko yaad na kiya ho. Aaj bhi lagta hai ki ek baar aapka haath mere sar par aa jaaye, bas ek baar..."(Mom, ten years have gone by... not even a day has passed since that year when I have not remembered you. Even today I feel that your hand should touch my head once, just once...)

Esha: I can still remember the day...

Flashback: The Fateful Day – Akshara's Tragic Demise

The grand Kohli mansion was bustling with life and joy. It was Kartik and Naira's wedding day, a union that had been eagerly awaited by both families. Every corner of the house was adorned with flowers, lights, and shimmering decor. The air was filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of wedding preparations. Yet, amidst this joyous chaos, fate had a cruel plan.

Ranbir, just a 16-year-old boy back then, was running through the halls, his face glowing with excitement. Dressed in a traditional kurta, he couldn't contain his happiness.

Ranbir: (shouting) "Bhai! Bhai! Dekho, aapki sherwani tayaar hai! Aur main kya lag raha hoon? Maa ne bola tha mujhe sabse smart banna hai!" (Brother! Brother! Look, your sherwani is ready! And how do I look? Mom told me she wants to be the smartest)

Kartik, 25 and beaming in his groom's attire, was standing in front of the mirror, adjusting his turban. Naira, his bride-to-be, peeked shyly from the door, her cheeks pink with shyness.

Kartik: (teasing) "Ranbir, tu toh pehle hi hero hai. Agar zyada smart ban gaya, toh Naira mujhe chhod ke tujhe apna dulha bana legi!" (Ranbir, you are already a hero. If you become smarter, then Naira will leave me and make you her groom!)

Naira: (laughing softly) "Aap dono bas ek jaise ho! Ranbir toh mera sabse favorite devar hai." (You two are just alike! Ranbir is my favorite brother-in-law.)

The three laughed together, unaware of the storm looming over their joy.

Downstairs, Akshara was in the kitchen, overseeing the final preparations. She was a vision of grace and love in her pastel saree, her hands busy but her face glowing with pride and happiness. She spoke to the cooks and staff, her voice calm yet commanding.

Akshara: "Sab kuch perfect hona chahiye. Aaj meri Naira ghar ki bahu ban rahi hai aur Kartik ka sabse bada din hai." (Everything should be perfect. Today my Naira is becoming the daughter-in-law of the house and it is the biggest day of Kartik.)

One of the staff nodded but mentioned something about the gas stove acting up. Akshara frowned slightly and moved to inspect it.

Akshara: "Main dekhti hoon. Aap log jaake mithai tayaar kariye." (I will see. You guys go and prepare sweets.)

Meanwhile, in the hall, Ranbir was looking for Akshara to show her his outfit.

Ranbir: "Maa! Maa, kahan ho aap? Dekho, main aapka smart beta tayaar ho gaya!" (Mom! Mom, where are you? Look, your smart son is ready!)

As he walked closer to the kitchen, he suddenly froze. A loud whoosh followed by a scream echoed through the house.

Akshara: "AAAHHH!"

Esha: Aunty ji!

Ranbir's heart stopped. His legs moved on instinct as he ran toward the kitchen. Kartik and Naira, hearing the scream, followed in panic.

In the kitchen, flames had engulfed Akshara's saree. She was trying desperately to pat them down, but the fire was spreading too quickly. Her calm, composed face was now a mask of terror and pain.

Ranbir: (screaming) "Maa!"(Mom)

He rushed forward, grabbing a cloth to try and douse the flames, but the heat pushed him back. Tears streamed down his face as he screamed for help.

Ranbir: "Koi paani lao! Kartik bhai! Maa ko bachaao!" (Someone bring water! Kartik Brother! Save Mom!)

Kartik burst into the kitchen, his eyes widening in horror. Without hesitation, he grabbed a bucket of water and threw it over Akshara, extinguishing the flames. Naira stood frozen at the door, her hands covering her mouth as tears rolled down her cheeks.

Kartik: (frantically) "Maa! Maa, humein dekho! Ranbir, ambulance bulao!" (Mom! Mom, look at us! Ranbir, call an ambulance!)

Akshara's body was badly burned, her breaths shallow and labored. Kartik held her in his arms, his tears mixing with the soot on her face.

Akshara: (whispering, weakly) "Kartik... Ranbir... tum dono humesha khush raho...I love you..." (Kartik... Ranbir... May you both always be happy...I love you)

Kartik: (sobbing) "Maa, kuch mat bolo. Hum aapko kuch nahi hone denge!" (Mom, don't say anything. We won't let anything happen to you!)

Esha: Maine apani bechari  kittu ko itana rote kabhi nahi dekha (I have never seen my poor kittu cry this much)

Ranbir knelt beside her, clutching her hand tightly.

Ranbir: (pleading) "Maa, mujhe mat chhodo... main abhi smart nahi bana... mujhe aapko proud karna hai!" (Mom, don't leave me... I'm not smart yet... I have to make you proud!)

The ambulance arrived, but Akshara's condition was critical. She was rushed to the hospital, the family trailing behind in stunned silence. Kartik held Naira's hand tightly, his mind racing with fear and guilt.

In the hospital, the doctors worked tirelessly, but the burns were too severe. After hours of waiting, the doctor finally emerged, his face grave.

Doctor: "I'm sorry. Humne puri koshish ki, par unka body zyada damage ho chuka tha. Vah mar gaye." (I'm sorry. We tried our best, but her body was too damaged. She is dead.)

Esha: He bhagavaan, ek doctor ke roop mein aap kitane kroor ho sakate hain. Aap yah kaise kah sakate hain ki vah mar chuki hai"(Oh my God, how cruel can you be as a doctor. How could you just tell she is dead!)🤧😖

Naitik, who had arrived by then, collapsed into a chair, his head in his hands. Kartik leaned against the wall, his tears finally breaking free. Ranbir sat in a corner, his face buried in his knees, sobbing uncontrollably.

Ranbir: (whispering to himself) "Maa... aap kyun gayi? Mujhe smart banne ka chance bhi nahi diya..." (Mom... why did you leave? You didn't even give me a chance to become smart...)

Naira, despite her own grief, knelt beside Ranbir and wrapped her arms around him.

Naira: (softly) "Tumhari Maa tumse abhi bhi utna hi pyaar karti hai, Ranbir. Woh hamesha tumhare saath rahengi." (Your Mom still loves you just as much, Ranbir. She will always be with you.)

That day changed everything for the Kohlis. The wedding was postponed, the house plunged into mourning. For Kartik, it was the loss of his anchor. For Ranbir, it was the loss of his first love, his guiding star. And for Naitik, it was the loss of a partner who had been his strength for decades. 

Naira walks up quietly, her own eyes brimming with tears. She wraps her arm around Ranbir's shoulder gently.

Naira: "Woh yahin hain, Ranbir. Tumhare saath, hamesha. Tumhare chehre ki muskaan mein, tumhare jazbaat mein, aur aaj tumhare is pehle kadam mein bhi." (She's right here, Ranbir. With you, always. In your smile, in your emotions, and today, in this first step you're taking.)

Kartik steps in, trying to lighten the mood while his own voice wavers slightly.

Kartik: "Arey Ranbir, Maa yahin hoti, toh sabse pehle tumhari ye tie set kar rahi hoti aur bolti, 'Ranbir Kohli, tum sabse handsome lag rahe ho!' Toh ab rona bandh karo aur humein proud karne chalo." (If Mom were here, she'd be fixing your tie and saying, 'Ranbir Kohli, you look the most handsome!' So stop crying and let's go make her proud.)

Ranbir laughs softly through his tears, wiping them away and nodding. He stands straighter, turning back to face the portrait one last time.

Ranbir: (softly) "Aaj bhi aapke liye kar raha hoon, Maa. Har cheez aapke liye." (Even today, I'm doing this for you, Mom. Everything is for you.)

Esha: Your mom is so proud of you.

Naitik clears his throat, his own eyes moist but filled with pride.

Naitik: "Aksha ke bachchon ne kabhi mujhe disappoint nahi kiya. Aaj tumhe tayaar dekh ke lagta hai, mera ladla waise hi hero ban raha hai jaise Aksha chahti thi." (Aksha's children have never disappointed me. Seeing you ready like this today, it feels like my beloved son is becoming the hero Aksha always wanted him to be.)

Kartik nods and takes Naitik's hand as they all move toward the door. The family is emotional but determined, united in their love and memory of Akshara as they head out for Sheetgiri, where destiny awaits Ranbir.