The next day, the house was alive with excitement, as it was Ansh’s birthday.The entire living room was transformed into a magical wonderland, with blue and white balloons floating at different heights, some tied to chairs and others forming elegant arches over doorways.

Silver streamers dangled from the ceiling, catching the light and creating a sparkling effect.A large, blue-themed “Happy Birthday” banner was strung across the wall, with fairy lights twinkling around it.

Outside the gate, a person dressed as Stuart Little, the beloved mouse from the classic children’s movie, stood eagerly greeting the guests.

His adorable, oversized costume with big round ears, a tiny suit jacket, and a red bow tie made the children squeal with excitement.

He waved cheerfully as each family approached, bending down to give high-fives to the younger kids and shaking hands with the adults.

As the children arrived, their faces lit up, captivated by the life-sized version of the character. Stuart Little handed out small party favors—tiny mouse-shaped cookies and blue-and-white balloon animals—making the kids giggle with delight. His friendly, animated manner put everyone at ease, setting the playful tone for the party.

Inside the room,

Ankita POV:

"Come on, shona... let me dress you up. You can play with this train after the party is over, bacha," I said softly, gently moving his toy train to the side. He looked at me with those innocent, wide eyes, still holding on to the wheels as if it were the most precious thing in the world.

As I undressed him, I kept up the conversation, knowing he loved hearing my voice."You know, shona, everyone downstairs is waiting just for you. All your friends are here to celebrate your special day... my baby has turned one year old today," I said with a smile, feeling an overwhelming sense of pride and joy as I looked at him.

His eyes sparkled, and even though he couldn’t talk much yet, I could see he understood that something special was happening.

With care, I buttoned his tiny shirt, smoothing it down before running a comb through his soft hair. His gaze never left mine, so full of curiosity as if he could sense every word I was saying.

"Your chachu has specially ordered your favorite pancakes. You love them, don’t you, baby?" I asked, my voice filled with affection as I placed a small dot of kajal behind his ear to ward off any evil eyes.

"Pancakes!" he mumbled, in his gibberish voice melting my heart, and I couldn’t help but smile at how cute he sounded trying to say his favorite word.

"My baby is looking so dashing in this outfit… aww, my cute, handsome boy," I cooed, lifting him up and turning him towards the mirror.

He stared at his reflection for a moment, clapping his tiny hands excitedly when he saw himself all dressed up.I chuckled, unable to resist kissing his forehead, breathing in the sweet, familiar scent of my little boy.

"You're going to steal everyone’s heart today," I whispered as I held him close.

Just then, Maa came in, her eyes lighting up when she saw him. "Ahh, everyone’s been waiting for this little prince," she said with a soft laugh, reaching out to take him from me.

"I’ll take him downstairs; all the guests are eager to see him."

"Alright, Maa. I’ll be there soon," I said, watching as she carried him out, his little arms waving at me as if to say goodbye for now.

I smiled and waved back before turning to the mirror, realizing it was time for me to get ready too.

I stared at the saree Aryan gifted me. After a lot of inner conflict, I finally made the decision,I will wear this saree.

I know Maa and Papa will be happy to see me in it, but I’m unsure about the reactions from others.

I expect they might taunt me for wearing something so fancy. After all, I’m just a widow who supposedly shouldn’t be adorned in such attire.

But today, I will wear it—just for my Aditya, just for my baby’s happiness, and just for Aryan’s request.

Author's POV:

Aryan was busy with the guests and arrangements. He wore a maroon shirt from Ankita for his promotion and black pants.

The shirt’s rich color made him look sharp, and his neatly styled hair and clean-shaven face added to his handsome appearance. His smile and confident stance made him look both charming and stylish.

Aryan's POV:

I looked at the stairs waiting eagerly Ankita..I don't know if she would wear the saree or not ??  I would be grateful if she wears it but even if she not then it's not a problem.. afterall it's her choice.

I grins seeing my handsome boy jumps excitedly at mom's arm when he saw me ..

'Aww my Jaan is looking so handsome ' I took him into my arms.

He caresses my face, ' how am I looking my champ?? Do I look good'

He nods his frantically giggling patting my cheek..

Various guests are coming and meeting the birthday boy but as he's not so extrovert ,all time he was clinging to my neck..

Later my cousin aunty Shalini and her daughter Sanjh  also came to attend the party..

'How are you beta ? After a long time seeing you' Shalini aunty ask me..

I gave a small smile, 'I'm fine aunty,how are you?'

Sanjh is standing beside her staring at me in such a intensity that makes me feel irritated.

At times she is looking down blushing..

I roll my eyes. I don't know what made her blush like this.

Overacting ki dukaan!!!

From the starting only I don't like these mother daughter duo because everytime they comes they will always brought up the topic of my marriage..how sanjh will be great as my wife ...how we will look perfect for each other..and bla bla..

'He is so cute Aryan. He has got your brown eyes' Sanjh comment patting his chubby cheek..

But instantly Ansh swat her hand turning his face towards me.

Well done my boy!!

She looks at me embarrassed.

'Uhmm Sanjh he doesn't like when someone touches his face' I said clearing the awkwardness.

She shook her head and said, “No, no, it’s okay. I didn’t mind at all.”

Sanjh tried to continue the conversation, but my attention was abruptly captured by the sight of Ankita descending the stairs.

My heart skipped a beat as I saw her wearing the saree I had gifted her.I was left momentarily speechless.

The saree looked even more stunning on her than I had imagined. The fabric flowed elegantly, hugging her curves in all the right places. Her light makeup accentuated her features beautifully, and her long, silky hair cascaded down her back, adding a touch of effortless grace.

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