The night was calm, the air filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers as Vishakha, Bela, and Mahir sat on the lawn. Mahir was in high spirits, cracking jokes and making light conversation, but Vishakha’s furrowed brow and distant gaze did not go unnoticed by Bela.

Bela leaned closer to Mahir and whispered, "What do you think is bothering her?"

Mahir shrugged, still smiling. "Maybe she’s just tired. Let’s ask her."

Clearing his throat, Mahir turned to Vishakha. "Hey, Vishakha, you look like you’ve got the weight of the world on your shoulders. What’s going on?"

Vishakha snapped out of her thoughts, her eyes focusing on them. She took a deep breath before speaking. "I’ve been thinking about Nandini."

Bela’s concern deepened. "Is she alright? Did something happen?"

Vishakha shook her head. "She’s fine. It’s just… I’ve been thinking about her future, her marriage. She’s getting older, and I don’t want her to face what I did. I want her to settle down, to have a secure life."

Bela and Mahir exchanged startled glances. Bela was the first to respond. "Marriage? But why so suddenly? Has something happened?"

Vishakha sighed, her voice tinged with worry. "I don’t want her to wait too long. I want to see her happy and settled. And I’ve found someone I think might be a good match for her."

Mahir raised an eyebrow. "Have you talked to Nandini about this? What if she already has someone in mind?"

A flicker of anger crossed Vishakha’s face. "No, she doesn’t. My daughter can never break her promise to me. She will marry the person I choose for her."

Bela’s expression turned serious. "Vishakha, you should at least talk to her. She might have her own feelings about this."

Vishakha’s eyes hardened. "I know what’s best for my daughter. She will marry the man I’ve chosen. I’ve already arranged for us to meet him next Wednesday."

Mahir’s eyes widened in surprise. "Next Wednesday? That’s only four days away! Don’t you think we should give Nandini some time to process this?"

Vishakha’s determination was unwavering. "I will inform her, but not yet. I want to make sure everything is in place first."

Bela and Mahir knew there was no arguing with Vishakha when she was this resolute. They exchanged a resigned look and nodded in agreement.

Bela reached out and placed a comforting hand on Vishakha’s arm. "Alright, we’ll support you in this. But please, talk to Nandini soon. She deserves to know what’s happening."

Vishakha’s expression softened slightly. "I will. Thank you both for understanding."

Mahir leaned back in his chair, his jovial mood now subdued. "I just hope Nandini is okay with all this. She’s a strong girl, but this is a big decision."

Vishakha nodded, her eyes reflecting the weight of her responsibility. "I know. And I trust that she will understand and accept my decision."

The conversation drifted back to lighter topics, but the tension lingered in the air. Vishakha’s mind was still preoccupied with the upcoming meeting, while Bela and Mahir couldn’t shake their concern for Nandini.

Meanwhile, in her hospital cabin, Nandini was oblivious to the plans being made for her future. She was lost in her thoughts, excited about Manik’s impending visit to India, and anxious about how Navya would react to her relationship with Manik.

The night grew deeper, and the plans set in motion by Vishakha, Bela, and Mahir would soon intertwine with the lives of Manik and Nandini in ways they couldn’t yet foresee. The days ahead promised excitement, challenges, and revelations that would test their bonds and bring them closer together.

The flight from London to Mumbai was long, but the excitement of returning to India kept everyone in high spirits. As the plane began its descent, Manik gazed out the window, his thoughts filled with anticipation about seeing Nandini. He could hardly wait to surprise her.

Once they landed and collected their luggage, the group made their way through the bustling Mumbai airport. Raj and Neyonika led the way, followed by Mukti and Alya, with Manik bringing up the rear, his mind already racing ahead to their meeting.

In the car ride to their Mumbai home, Mukti turned to Manik, a pout on her lips. "I still can’t believe Cabir and Dhruv couldn’t make it. It feels incomplete without them."

Alya nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it’s not the same without the whole FAB 5 together."

Manik smiled reassuringly. "I know, but they had work commitments they couldn’t get out of. We’ll all be together soon enough."

Mukti sighed. "I miss Abhimanyu already. It’s only been a few days, but still."

Alya nudged her playfully. "Aww, someone’s in love. Missing your boyfriend, huh?"

Manik joined in the teasing. "Yeah, Mukti, don’t worry. We’ll keep you entertained."

Mukti rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile. "You two are impossible."

As they pulled up to their house, Manik’s excitement grew. The familiar sight of their Mumbai home brought back a flood of memories. They all stepped out of the car, stretching their legs after the long journey.

Raj looked around and took a deep breath. "It’s good to be back. There’s nothing like the feeling of coming home."

Neyonika smiled, placing a hand on his arm. "Yes, it’s been too long."

They entered the house, and the staff greeted them warmly, helping with their luggage. The spacious living room felt comforting, a blend of old memories and new possibilities.

Manik looked at Mukti and Alya. "Let’s unpack and rest for a bit. We have a lot to do in the coming days."

Mukti nodded. "Good idea. I’m exhausted from the flight."

Alya stretched. "Same here. I need a nap."

They all went to their respective rooms to freshen up and rest. Manik, however, couldn’t sit still for long. He unpacked quickly and then pulled out his phone, scrolling through his messages, eager to text Nandini and let her know he was in town.

But he decided against it, wanting to surprise her instead. He could already imagine the look on her face when they met. The thought made him smile.

Later in the afternoon, they gathered in the living room. Mukti and Alya were talking excitedly about their plans for the next few days.

Mukti glanced at Manik. "So, what’s the first thing you want to do?"

Manik leaned back in his chair, grinning. "First thing, I want to see Nandini. I can’t wait to surprise her."

Alya chuckled. "You’re really excited, aren’t you?"

Manik nodded. "More than you know. It’s been too long."

Raj entered the room, holding a cup of tea. "I’m glad you’re eager to see your friends, Manik. But don’t forget, we have some important meetings lined up as well."

Neyonika joined them, sitting beside Raj. "Yes, we need to discuss the collaboration with Sehgal Industries. It’s a significant opportunity for us."

Manik nodded, his excitement tempered by the reminder of his responsibilities. "I haven’t forgotten. I’m looking forward to it."

Mukti looked thoughtful. "I’m curious about this collaboration. It sounds like a big deal."

Raj smiled. "It is. Sehgal Industries is a major player, and working with them could open up new avenues for us."

Alya leaned forward. "I heard they’re also into fashion and design. It’s exciting to think about the possibilities."

Neyonika nodded. "Indeed. It’s a chance to expand our horizons and explore new ventures."

They spent the rest of the evening discussing their plans, catching up, and enjoying each other’s company. The house was filled with laughter and chatter, the warmth of family and friends making it feel truly like home.

As the night wore on, they decided to call it a day and get some rest. Manik, however, found it hard to sleep. His thoughts kept drifting back to Nandini, the excitement of seeing her again making it impossible to calm his racing heart.

The next morning, Manik woke up early, the anticipation of the day ahead pulling him out of bed. He took a quick shower and got dressed, ready to face whatever came his way.

At breakfast, the atmosphere was lively. Mukti and Alya were teasing each other, Raj was reading the newspaper, and Neyonika was chatting with the staff, making sure everything was in order.

Manik sat down, his mind already planning how he would surprise Nandini. He could hardly wait to see her reaction.

After breakfast, they gathered in the living room, ready to start their day. Mukti looked at Manik, a playful glint in her eyes. "So, are you going to meet Nandini?"

Manik grinned. "Absolutely."

Alya chuckled. "I wish we could meet her too now, but alas we have a meeting."

Manik nodded. "That’s fine, you can meet her later. And Mom and Dad I will directly meet you at Sehgal Industries."

They all left the house, heading off to their respective appointments. Manik’s heart was light, filled with excitement and anticipation. The days ahead promised new beginnings, unexpected challenges, and the joy of reuniting with loved ones.

Meanwhile, in her cabin at the hospital, Nandini was lost in thoughts about Manik’s arrival. She couldn’t wait to see him, to feel his presence again. The excitement was mixed with a tinge of nervousness about how her family, especially Navya, would react to their relationship.

The stage was set, and the pieces were falling into place. The reunion of Manik and Nandini promised joy and challenges, and their journey was about to take another significant turn.
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Hope u all like the chapter.....

Few words for Manik....

Few words for Nandini....

What were your favourite moments???

What will happen when Nandini will get to know about this marriage proposal???

Guys any suggestions you want to give for upcoming chapters like you want to see something???

Thank u 🙂🙂

Love,
Kiara ❤️❤️