𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 ♡ - | EPILOGUE-1 |

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I reached home when the sky was no longer dark but not in the morning either. The sky looked dull grey and the air felt quiet. My eyes felt heavy, my shoulders were stiff, and my brain felt like it was running on a two percent charge.

The game launch was in two days. Reports, errors, final builds, everything felt like a cycle that had no pause.

The only relief was that tomorrow was Sunday.

I opened our bedroom door quietly, already imagining the bed pulling me in.

I stopped when I saw my wife.

Ruh was asleep.

The moment I saw her, my whole body relaxed in a way nothing else could manage.

She was lying in the center of the bed, hugging a pillow tightly as if she was protecting it.

The duvet had slipped a little.

She was wearing my white shirt again. The same shirt with faint lipstick marks on the collar.

She always said those marks were her way of claiming me, and then she kept the shirt like it was something she had won.

Every time she wore it, the marks looked clearer against the fabric.

I changed my clothes quietly and moved slowly onto the bed.

She shifted a little in her sleep and the shirt lifted just enough for her thigh to show.

Not lying, she looked hot in this. Too hot for someone who was sleeping so innocently.

My eyes stayed on her legs for a second longer than necessary. Her skin looked warm under the dim light.

The shirt covered her in all the right places and still managed to do nothing at all about my thoughts.

I moved closer slowly and slid my hand around her waist, she came closer without waking up. Her palm rested on my chest like she had been waiting for me.

Her breath warmed my collarbone. The sound of it was enough to pull me right out of the exhaustion I had been drowning in all day.

Her hair was messy and her cheek was pressed into my pillow. She looked peaceful and soft and completely at ease.

“Ruh,” I whispered near her hair.

She made a low sound. My name was somewhere inside it, but most of it was sleepy mumbling.

I smiled and pressed my face lightly against her chest. She opened her eyes a little, just enough for me to see the slow movement of her lashes.

“Vihaan,” Her voice was soft and uneven.

“Yes. I am here,” I whispered against her skin.

She tried to open her eyes again, but they shut after a second, “When did you come?”

“Just half an hour ago,” I said softly.

She nodded still in a sleepy state, “You are late.”

“I know,” I said. “You can scold me properly in the morning.”

Her fingers moved into my hair and she mumbled, “Yess, be ready for the lecture.”

I tilted my head up and looked at her face, “You look very beautiful right now.”

She opened one eye and stared at me, “I know what you are trying to do. But you are tired. So no.”

“Soo….” I dragged the word slowly and traced my fingers across her collarbone. “What if I am still trying.”

She exhaled through her nose and tried not to smile. Her fingers curled into my biceps, “Behave.”

“You stopped letting me flirt. You are becoming old,” I whispered and pulled her even closer.

She let out a quiet laugh. Her eyes remained closed, “You talk too much. Sleep.”

I pulled her closer and placed my face against her chest. Her warmth relaxed every muscle in me. I nuzzled lightly and felt her breathing change. She moved without waking, her arms tightening around me like her body recognised me first.

My hand slid to the top button of the shirt she had stolen. The fabric shifted easily. When the button opened, a small part of her skin peeked through. I leaned in and pressed a slow kiss there.

Her breath caught immediately.

Her chest rose sharply against my cheek. Her fingers curled into my hair even in her half-asleep state. A soft sound escaped her throat, warm and quiet.

Her legs brushed mine and she pulled me closer, as if her body was responding before her mind fully woke.

“Vihaan….” she whispered, her voice low and uneven.

I kissed her again, a little above the last place. She reacted instantly. Her hand slid to the back of my neck and held me there with a gentle firmness.

Her lips parted slightly as she breathed in.

“What are you doing,” she whispered.

“Nothing….it’s just, I missed my wife” I whispered against her skin.

She hummed quietly. Her fingers moved through my hair and tugged lightly, “You are not letting me sleep.”

“You started it by wearing this shirt,” I murmured and pressed another kiss to her chest.

She let out a soft gasp before she even realised it. Her toes pressed against my leg. Her fingers stayed firm on the back of my neck, “Vihaan please.”

Her voice had a light shake, affected by every touch.

I brought my face up slightly and kissed the base of her shoulder, “I will sleep after I get one more kiss.”

She moved her hand to my cheek and tapped it lightly. Her eyes opened just a little, “Okay. But only one.”

I kissed her shoulder again, slower. She made a small sound and gripped my shoulder.

“Happy now.” she whispered.

“Yes. Very,” I said softly.

She shifted closer and pulled me fully into her arms. Her legs tangled with mine and her palm rested on the back of my neck. Her thumb traced slow strokes against my skin.

“Sleep now,” she whispered.

I nodded and closed my eyes, “I am already in my Ruhland.”

Within seconds, everything faded and I drifted off completely.

Sunlight slanted through the curtains and landed straight on my face from the kitchen window.

I was in the kitchen. My stupid best friend had called at nine in the morning and ruined my Sunday sleep. After the call ended, I started cooking breakfast and decided to wake Ruh.

Her alarm was switched off today, which was odd. I thought she must be tired that cannbe the reason.

She never slept this late.

When I entered the bedroom, she was on my side of the bed, curled tightly like a sleepy kitten, hugging the blanket and breathing softly.

I let out a quiet laugh.

“This girl got my sleeping habit,” I said under my breath. “Migrating in sleep.”

I pushed a strand of hair away from her cheek and leaned closer.

“Ruh…” I whispered. “Wake up, sleepyhead.”

She scrunched her nose and turned her face into the pillow.

I blinked looking at her not so common behaviour.

“Ruh?” I tapped her cheek. “It’s morning.”

A muffled groan came, “No.”

I stared at her.
This woman.
This was not my usual disciplined doctor wife.

“It’s 9:40 am,” I said.

She opened one eye, one single eye, glared at the sunlight like it personally offended her, and closed it again.

“Five minutes….vihaaannnn” she whispered, voice hoarse.

“You said five minutes thirty minutes ago,” i murmmered kissing her nose.

Why is she looking extra beautiful today.

I pulled the duvet down just enough to see her face.

She didn’t even open her eyes. She made a tiny annoyed sound, grabbed the blanket back, and covered her head completely.

“I am hibernating,” she mumbled from inside.

I sat beside her, watching the way she curled up tighter than usual. Her knees were tucked in, her arms folded close, her breathing heavier than normal. Not her regular lazy Sunday. This was different, softer, slower.

“It’s morning,” I said quietly.

“I don’t care,” she whispered. “I want to sleep.”

Her voice sounded lower than normal. Not sick…just drained.

I lifted the blanket again.

She groaned and rolled to her side, showing me her back, “Stop disturbing my process. I am hibernating.”

“You are not a bear,” i joked to tease her, my fingers move to tickle her foot.

She laughed but then glared at me.

“I can be anything today,” She hugged the pillow tighter. “Especially a bear who doesn’t want to get up.”

I touched her shoulder gently, “You okay?”

She nodded without turning, “Just feeling lazy.”

Her fingers tightened around the pillow like holding it was taking effort.

I slid closer and tugged her blanket down slightly, “Ruh…look at me.”

She turned slowly, almost reluctantly, her eyes only half open. She looked too soft, too sleepy, like she’d run a marathon in her dreams.

I rested my palm on her warm cheek, “Come here.”

She didn’t resist as i sat beside her.
She scooted closer, slipping over my lap and pulling the duvet over us, resting her head against my chest. Her grip on my shirt was weak but clingy, her legs curling slightly toward me under the blanket.

“I don’t want to get up,” she murmured into my chest.

“You don’t have to yet,” I murmured back, brushing her hair behind her ear. She leaned into the touch instantly, letting out a tiny sigh that pushed straight into my ribs. “Just tell me what’s wrong.”

“I don’t know….” she whispered. “I slept but I still feel sleepy. My body feels slow.”

Her hand slid briefly down near her stomach before she tucked it back under the blanket, curling her fingers into the fabric.

I held her waist gently and pulled her back toward me, “You didn’t eat properly yesterday, right?”

She looked away instead of answering.

I know right. This woman.

She was acting differently today.

She lifted her eyes and gave me a tired glare, “It’s Sunday. Why are you disturbing my peace?”

“Because meri bullet train you barely touched dinner,” I said quietly. “And now you look like you’ll pass out again.”

She groaned and dropped her face against my chest. Her finger traced slowly across my bare skin.

“I can see that,” I murmured, sliding my hand along her back. “At least sit up for five minutes. Wash your face. Then we’ll eat something light.”

“No,” she said, shaking her head lazily. “I am staying here. You feel like a nice warm bed.”

“You are being extra moody today,” i narrowed my eyes at her and she sighed

She didn’t argue. She just curled her fingers into my shirt and held on tighter, “I don’t want to move, Vihaannnnn.”

Her eyes shot open-wide.
Almost too fast for someone who, two seconds ago, was declaring hibernation like a full-time profession.

“Oh crap,” she whispered, pushing her hair back. “yes… I had to get the gift for Atharv. And I still need the dinosaur puzzle and the sketch markers and-“

She tried to get up but swayed instantly.

I caught her waist before she could fall again.

She tried to sit up but wobbled immediately. She grabbed my arm.

“Careful,” I said, catching her waist before she leaned too far. “Are you okay? Are you dizzy?”

“No it’s just…i got up too fast…” she blinked slowly.

“Exactly,” I said, sliding my arm under her legs again. “This is why I am picking you up.”

Everything she did was slower today, her blinking, her breathing, even the way she rubbed her eyes. She looked like she could fall asleep while sitting.

“Ruh,” I said gently, brushing her hair away from her face, “do you want to rest more?”

She shook her head again,”No. I want pancakes and the puzzle… and sleep…but also pancakes.”

I let out a small breath, “So basically everything at the same time.”

“Yes,” she mumbled, closing her eyes again and leaning her forehead on my shoulder. “Hold me for one second.”

I laughed quietly, kissing the top of her head. She didn’t pull away at all, she just lingered there, breathing softly against me.

Then she pulled back a little, looking up with those half-sleepy eyes.

I held her carefully and then moved toward the bathroom.

I held her waist gently, “You almost collapsed. I told you to eat properly. And you’re a doctor…you can’t even keep track of your own meals.”

She squinted at me, copying my expression perfectly, then sighed and pouted, “Stop glaring at me. I’m fine.”

“You’re a sleepy penguin pretending everything’s okay,” I teased.

Her reaction was immediate. She gasped dramatically and pressed her forehead against my chest, “How dare you?”

Ah, the penguin thing. She still hated it. Especially since last time she was drunk and I had teased her mercilessly.

Honestly, it was unfair how adorable she looked when offended.

I lifted her effortlessly and carried her to the washroom. Her hands clung lazily to my shoulders, and her legs swung slightly as I settled her on the counter.

“Wait….this was supposed to be my turn to scold you for being late,” she said, smirking like she had a whole lecture ready. “I waited patiently.”

“I am your handsome, dashing, charming husband,” I said, leaning close so our chests brushed. “No lectures today.”

She rubbed her eyes like a sleepy child, blinking slowly. I leaned toward her cheek, smirking, and she squirmed slightly but didn’t pull away. She held my arm almost pulling me closer…but then I handed her the toothbrush.

“Brush.”

She stared at it for three long seconds, rolled her eyes, and began brushing halfheartedly.

I laughed at her reaction and flicked her forehead lightly.

“Ow!”

“You’re half-asleep. You’ll fall. Come here,” I said, scooping her gently and making her sit properly on the counter beside the basin.

Her phone rang. I picked it up automatically.

She shot me a questioning look.

“Your junior doctor. Again,” I said.

She snatched the phone and put it on speaker, “Give.”

“Yes… increase fluids and no, not that medication…just send the chart and report to me, okay?” She spoke professionally, and I used the time to gather her hair and twisted it into a bun, sneaking glances at her focused face. She looked ridiculously cute like this, while i am pretending not to eavesdrop.

“Uhhnm ma’am, did you have breakfast? You sound not okay,” came the junior’s voice.

I raised an eyebrow. This stupid guy.

She sighed, “I’m okay.”

“Please take care of yourself and have breakfast on time, and if something…” He hesitated, and I jumped in.

“Her husband is here now. If you don’t have anything else to say, cut the call,” I said, glaring at him through the speaker.

She peeked at me, wide-eyed.

“Oh… goodbye….I mean, good morning sir…yes… I’ll hang up,” he stammered, finally ending the call.

“I think someone’s a little jealous,” she teased, still holding the phone.

“Me? Jealous? Not at all,” I said, though my voice betrayed me.

“Oh, come on,” she said, laughing.

“He literally told me to take care of myself, and you….” She gestured at me. “…are glaring at the phone like you’re going to rip it out of his hands.”

“Well, he keeps flirting with you. Don’t you think he has work to do? I should call Kunal jiju and get him fired from flirting duties,” I said, leaning closer.

“Uhmm… so now you’re using my brother to keep your work under control?” she teased.

“Perks of having a brother-in-law,” I said with a wink. “Connections, influence, all the good stuff. Except that he is a grumpy robot.”

She laughed and flicked water at me from the sink. “You’re such a unique Species.”

“And you love it,” I countered, catching her wrist gently to stop the water. “Admit it.”

We went to the kitchen. She sat on the slab, legs swinging lazily, slicing fruits.

Her white shirt… my shirt… kept slipping off one shoulder, exposing warm skin right in front of me.

Was she doing it on purpose?

I tried to focus on the pancake batter, but she was impossible to ignore.

She stood, stretched, and reached for a container on the top shelf. The shirt lifted dangerously high on her thighs.

I swallowed.

This woman was a walking test. A test I was failing spectacularly.

I moved to help, but no. My wife was always anti-romantic.

She went on her toes, leaned slightly over the slab, grabbed the container like she was auditioning for a commercial, and sat back down with a smug little smirk.

“Got it,” she said.

I stared.

She blinked innocently, “What?”

I didn’t answer. I picked her up and set her on the counter.

“Vihaan!” she gasped.

I leaned in to kiss her, but before I could, she shoved an apple slice into my mouth.

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” she said proudly.

I chewed slowly and held her waist firmly, my hands sliding to her thighs.

“If the doctor is beautiful,” I said softly, “throw the apple away.”

Her breath hitched.

Fin-freaking-ally..after 42 hours, I kissed her. Slow and Deliberate. Her hands slid into my hair, tugging gently. I tasted the fruit she had just eaten. My lips moved over hers, exploring softly, teasingly, until she parted for me.

She tugged at my lips, nipping gently, and I responded in kind, brushing my tongue lightly against hers.

She tapped my shoulder, breathless.

I pulled back slightly, forehead resting against hers.

“Dizzy?” I whispered.

“No,” she whispered. “But now I am.”

I laughed quietly and brushed my thumb over her cheek.

She fed me fruit while I flipped pancakes. She watched me openly, chin in hand, eyes glimmering with mischief.

“You know,” she said, eating a grape, “I always fantasized about this.”

“About what?” I asked.

“You. Shirtless and cooking. Me staring at you and having…. thoughts.”

“Dirty thoughts?” I smirked.

“How can you say it out loud?” she said, eyes wide.

“So you were having dirty thoughts,” I teased.

She nodded shamelessly. “Why can’t I have nasty thoughts about my own husband?”

“You can,” I said, leaning closer. “You should.”

She threw a hand towel at me. I caught it and laughed.

She blushed.

We talked a little more.

Eleven months into our marriage, nothing had changed. I still cling to my Ruh like a magnet and irritate her, she still made a grumpy face but blushes a lot.

Weekdays were often busy, but on weekends we stayed at Maasi’s house…I mean, now ours.

Yes our small bubble.

This place became our little world, where cheesecake, chai, and teasing were our routine. And for those moments, nothing else mattered.

She set the dining table and watered the plants while I did all the breakfast and cleaned the slab. Once she put the food on the table, I cleaned the mess in the kitchen.

I hate leaving dishes for later…it’s boring.

“Ruh,” I said, pulling her chair closer to mine, “eat properly like a good girl you are.”

She mimicked my tone perfectly. I waited for her to take a bite while I checked emails.

She nudged my knee under the table. I nudged back.

She stared.

Long.

Too long.

“What happened?” I asked slowly.

She made a face, “I don’t feel like having pancakes.”

The world stopped. No….not the world-my brain stopped.

“You… don’t feel like… eating pancakes?” I repeated.

She shrugged tiredly, “I don’t.”

I placed a hand dramatically on my heart, “Ruh, who are you?”

She scrunched her eyes at me and sighed, “Oh god, stop overreacting.”

Weird.

She is the one asking for pancakes.

She drank the juice while looking at the pancakes.

Her eyes lit up the second I poured chocolate syrup.

Craving sweet. Got her.

But I only did a small drizzle.

She reached for more syrup, and I grabbed her hand mid-reach.

“Remember, papa said less sweet,” I reminded her. “Doctor madam should follow the rules.”

She mimicked my voice perfectly, “Remember, Yuvraj papa said not to annoy your wife.”

I stopped her again, only allowing one tiny drop. She gasped like I’d stabbed her.

“You are the devil, VIHAAN RAICHAND!”

She threw her hands up, “Why did I marry you, chimpanzee?”

“You married the handsome chimpanzee,” I corrected, smirking.

“Remember, Ruh, you should take care of yourself. have less sugar,” I said.

She had been sneaking too many sweets, and of course, Akshat papa would notice. She’s allowed cheesecake in two weeks, though she’s managing her diet. I’m the one who has to enforce it.

“You’re a doctor, Ruh. You should eat healthy and have a proper diet.”

She glared at me and shoved a piece of pancake into my mouth, smashing it in.

She mimicked my tone and said, “Stop acting like my father.”

I leaned closer, licking the chocolate syrup from the corner of her lips, right near the mole.

“Then what do you think I should act like?” I whispered.

She coughed, a sharp little laugh escaping her.

I laughed too.

“Nasty Homo sapiens,” she muttered, cheeks red, glaring at me through lashes.

I winked, “only yours.”

She swatted my arm, but her lips twitched like she was trying not to smile.

I grabbed a fork and fed her a tiny bite of pancake, watching her eyes sparkle.

Two minutes ago, she didn’t even want pancakes.
Now she was sitting on my lap, like she’d been starving all week.

And honestly? Watching her eat from my hand yeah, I could get addicted to that.

“Vihaan…enough,” she said, pushing my wrist a little. “Don’t feed me more. I am done.”

I smirked when her lips brushed my fingertips, “Ruh… you know I love watching you eat from my hand.”

She gave me that warning look, “Behave.”

Behave.

Right.

As if that has ever worked for me.

I know I am shameless but i just love her teasing.

I leaned in, let my breath touch her ear.

“I am behaving. If I wasn’t-“my voice dropped lower, “….I’d be asking you to feed me later…. with that mouth.”

Her whole face turned red instantly.
Beautiful.

“Vihaan!” she hissed.

I raised a brow, “What? That’s not even the worst thing I was thinking.”

Her eyes widened, “Don’t you dare say another word….”

I opened my mouth to give her something even filthier-

And she shoved a whole peice of another pancake straight into my mouth.

I froze.

Chewed.

Stared at her.

She crossed her arms, “Good. Silence.”

I swallowed it dramatically, “You literally shut me up with breakfast.”

“Exactly.”

I licked a crumb from my lip, watching the way her eyes flicked there, “You know….you putting things in my mouth is only giving me worse ideas.”

She slapped my arm, “VIHAAN RAICHAND!”

I laughed, grabbed her waist when she tried to run, “Come here. You started this.”

“I started NOTHING!” She said glaring at me yet her cheeks were turning red.

I pulled her close until our noses brushed.

“You blush like that,” I murmured,
“and you expect me to stay innocent?”

She shoved another piece into my mouth, “Eat this and shut up!”

I bit into it right from her fingers, slow, eyes never leaving hers.

She swallowed hard.

I brushed her knuckles with my lips, “You really want me quiet?
Because I have better ways to keep your mouth busy.”

Her hand flew to my mouth instantly, “Not. Another. Word.”

I kissed her palm, smirking against it, “Your command is my honour, Mrs. Raichand.”

The morning continued like that, pancakes, syrup, nudges, bites, and soft laughter filling the kitchen.

Eleven months into marriage, and nothing had changed. I still teased her endlessly, and she still protested but she loved it.

We still kept our silly little dates.

We still made time for each other, especially on weekends…no matter how tired or busy life got.

We still went on our late-evening chai dates, sitting on the same bench, laughing about nothing.

She still gave her random “personal concerts” in the kitchen or in the car.

And I still recorded every single one of them, made a whole playlist out of her voice, and listened to it when I missed her.

That’s what we were.
That’s what we still are.
And honestly… I wouldn’t change a single thing.

•••••

We finally reached home with Atharv’s gifts and the essentials we needed. The moment we stepped inside, I checked the time, it was almost evening already. We had to get ready and go straight to dinner at her parents’ place.

Ruh didn’t waste a second, she went straight to the dresser, unpacking her tiny essentials the way she always does, hair tie, lotion, her favourite perfume, lip balm.

She placed everything neatly, then pushed her hair back with her fingers.

Meanwhile, I was sitting on the couch with my laptop open, pretending to work.

Correction….I was playing a game.

And my opponent was my own nephew, a six-year-old tornado.

I hit the next button aggressively.

If I lost this round, I would owe him “two cars” and a “free full-access subscription” to the next level of my own game.

Yes, my own game.

I was about to make my final move when-

“Vihaan.”

Her voice. Soft. Too soft. Making my heart explode.

My spine straightened instantly. Her voice always does that.

I turned my head.

She was standing near the bathroom, holding her towel with one hand, her hair tied into a bun. Her eyes were warm and mischievous.

I took a deep breath and worked on the match between me and tornado.

“I am going to take a shower,” she said.

I nodded without looking away from the screen, mostly because I didn’t trust myself to look at her and act normal.

She cleared her throat.

Then her voice dipped, bold and slow.
“If you want…. you can join me.”

My finger froze mid-tap.

She smirked at my reaction and crossed her arms under the towel.

I swallowed.

Hard.

Already.

“You have five seconds before I close the door.”

Five seconds.

Who cares about cars?
Who cares about subscriptions?
Who cares about dignity?

Wife invitation is limited edition access.

I jumped from the couch in a single leap.

The shock on her face was priceless.

Before she could even blink, I had sprinted across the room and grabbed the bathroom door before she shut it.

“3.5 seconds,” I announced, slightly out of breath. “New record.”

She stared at me, horrified, “You actually ran.”

“You actually invited me,” I countered, stepping inside.

She backed up with slow steps as I closed the door and caged her against the wall. My hands slid to her waist. Her breath hitched, her fingers brushing my forearm gently as if steadying herself.

“Ruh,” I murmured, leaning close, “you can’t throw that offer and expect me to pretend I don’t care.”

She put one palm against my chest, her touch light but teasing, “I didn’t think you’d sprint like an athlete.”

“You underestimate my motivation.”

She tilted her head, “And what motivates you exactly?”

“You. Meri Ruh. Only you.”

Her cheeks warmed instantly, and she tried to shove me playfully, but it had no strength at all.

I reached behind her and turned on the shower. Warm water poured down, and she pulled me under with her, her hand sliding behind my neck.

I pulled off my t-shirt, helped her out of her clothes, and we stepped fully under the water.

She lifted her chin and kissed me, slow, deep. Her fingers held my jaw, pulling me closer until my breath mixed with hers.

I tightened my hands around her waist, pulling her right against me. She smiled against my mouth, soft and warm.

Then she kissed my shoulder, traced that stupid little mole on my collarbone, and lightly bit it. The warm water hit us in heavy streams.

I shivered.

Of course she noticed.

Her smirk spread immediately.

She ran her hands up my chest, over my shoulders, then down my arms. Slow. Torturous. Eyes locked on mine the whole time.

“Focus on breathing, Vihaan,” she teased. “You’re forgetting again.”

I grabbed her waist and pulled her even closer, “You’re doing it on purpose.”

She gasped dramatically, “Me? Never.”

“Enough. My turn.”

I slid my hands over her waist. My fingers moved slowly across her stomach, then up her back.

Her breath hitched.
Her hands gripped my forearms.

“Vih-aan…” she whispered, leaning into me.

I kissed her shoulder, then her neck, slow and deliberate. Her grip tightened.
And breathing grew soft and shaky.

She curled her fingers around the back of my neck as I kissed up her jaw.

She pressed her body closer, warm and flushed under my hands. Her lips brushed mine again, inviting….

And then-

RING.

My phone.

I ignored it completely.

She said softly against my lips, “You should check….”

“No.”

I kissed her again, slower this time, my hand sliding up her thigh.

RING.

Louder. More annoying.

“Ignore it,” I muttered.

She pulled back a little, resting her forehead on mine, “It might be important.”

“It’s not,” I said instantly.

“You didn’t even look,” she scolded.

“I don’t need to look.”

The phone rang again.

I groaned loudly and dropped my forehead on her shoulder.

“Whoever is calling,” I muttered, “may their network die forever. May their phone fall in a gutter.”

She burst into laughter, “Vihaan!”

“The offer is over?” I asked her and she nodded.

I sighed, wrapped a towel around my waist, and walked out, already annoyed.

“Who the heck is calling me right now?”

Typical. The one rare moment when Ruh is actually in a romantic mood, and the universe sends obstacles like it’s a hobby.

I glanced at the screen.

“Kunal Jiju.”

I stared at the phone, “This man is the enemy of my romance.”

I cut the call.
The phone immediately rang again, this time on Ruh’s number.

Perfect. Amazing. Beautiful timing.

“Ruhii, where are you?” Jiju’s voice boomed through.

I grumbled, “Yaar Jiju… aapko apne cute, handsome, good-looking bhanje-bhanji ka chehra dekhne ka mann nahi karta kya?”

(Brother-in-law don’t you feel like seeing the face of your cute, handsome, good-looking niece or nephew?)

“Khud toh mujhe do baar mamu bana diya aur jab main aapki wishlist puri kar raha hoon, tab aap tapak jaate ho,” I groaned louder.

Frustration dripping from my tone.

(You’ve already made me an uncle twice, and the moment I finally start working on fulfilling your wishlist, you appear out of nowhere,)

“Ab kya Insaan shanti se family planning bhi nahi kar sakta kya?”

(Can’t a man even do family planning in peace now?)

Before he could reply, I cut the call mid-sentence.

Serves him right.

I fell onto the bed dramatically then froze.

Oh no.

Ohhhh no.

What did you just do, Vihaan Raichand?

Pagal aadmi.

If Ruh found out, she would straight-up bury me alive and say it’s…organic composting.

But that’s not the problem.

I grabbed clothes, muttered curses, and rushed into the guest room for a quick cold shower.

Then I got dressed properly and walked back into our room.

Ruh was standing in front of the dresser, her wet hair dripping on her maroon kurti. Tiny water droplets slid down her neck. She pushed her hair back with her fingers, graceful, tired, adorable.

She wore a maroon kurti with delicate embroidery on the sleeves, white straight pants, and a white organza dupatta.

Something about maroon always hits me straight in the chest.

She looked at me through the mirror.

I grinned, walked to her, gently held her shoulders, and made her sit on the chair.

“Let me,” I said softly.

I started drying her hair slowly, running my fingers through the strands. Her eyes fluttered shut for a second. Her shoulders relaxed like she’d been waiting for this all day.

“You’re looking so pretty, Ruh,” I whispered, leaning down to kiss her neck.

Then I traced my lips to the corner of her mouth, stopping right at my favorite mole.

She shivered. My heart did a little dance.

“Whose call was it?” she asked suddenly.

I froze mid-motion.

“Umm… no one’s,” I said way too quickly, pretending to be extremely invested in drying her hair.

“Vihaan.”

“Ruh, did you change your shampoo?” I forced a casual tone. “It smells different.”

She blinked, confused, “Same shampoo.”

“Really?” I sniffed again. Trying to change the topic.

Before she could question me more, she reached for her favorite perfume.

She sprayed it on her wrist, leaned in to smell it and paused.

Her brows knitted.

She inhaled again, slower this time.

Then she made a tiny face, “Strange… why does it smell so…strong today?”

I raised a brow, “Strong? It’s literally the same one you always use.”

“No, it feels different,” she murmured, pulling her hand back like the scent bothered her slightly. “I don’t like it today.”

That was new.

Ruh never dislikes this perfume.

My brain couldn’t understand this.

Ruh shook her head lightly and pushed the perfume aside.

Once her hair was done, she applied her makeup in soft strokes while I changed quietly in the corner. I buttoned my shirt, watching her press a hand on her temple for a second, tired, sensitive, not her usual self.

“Everything is fine?” I asked her checking her forehead.

No sign of fever.

“Yess, I am fine, now let’s go we are late”

I packed Atharv’s gift carefully.

We drove up to our house, and the moment I rang the doorbell.

Varun was at the door, holding his three-month-old son. Vansh.

Ruh’s eyes lit up immediately, and she practically leapt into Vansh’s arms. The baby stared at her with those big, innocent doe eyes.

God, she looks so soft when she’s happy like this.

“Did you miss your maasi?” Ruh whispered. Vansh babbled back, mimicking her voice, staring up at her like she was the most fascinating thing in the world.

Cute overload.

“Looks like Vansh is going to have a little sister or brother soon,” Varun teased, wiggling his eyebrows.

I frowned at Ruh, who blinked at me, completely confused.

“What?” we said together.

“Uh… nothing,” Varun said.

Ruh went inside, holding Vansh, and I glanced at Varun.

“Nice, you are too focused on your work,” he said teasingly.

“What in the world are you talking about?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.

While he just chuckled.

We stepped inside, and I froze. Everyone…everyone…was staring at us.

That knowing, teasing stare that made my chest tighten and a smirk curl on my lips. Oh no this cannot be good.

“Vihaan jiju, aaiye bethiye! You must be tired after all the hard work you’ve been doing,” Aashi said, smirking.

“What…. hard work?” I asked, completely frozen.

“Ruhii, come sit here,” her mother called her, patting the sofa.

“What’s happening?” I muttered under my breath.

“Idiot….the phone was on speaker,” Prisha di said, slapping my arm lightly.

“Phone? Speaker?” I asked, eyes wide.

Wait… what?! They heard everything?

WHAT THE HECK VIHAAN RAICHAND!!!!

And then it hit me. Slowly. Horribly.

Oh Gosh….they heard everything. EVERYTHING.

“Well, it looks like our little family is… expanding?” Masi teased, leaning toward Ruh and winking.

Akshat uncle, holding little Aarvi, cleared his throat. Ruh’s mother glared at me but I can see the small smile forming.

Wait.

No, no, no… Kunal jiju is going to eat me alive.

“After all, you are my son…but some private moments are better kept private,” Dad said, still looking at me.

Ruh stared at me, silently asking for an explanation.

I can’t even begin.

Kunal jiju sat in the corner, arms crossed, glaring at me like I’d committed a crime against humanity.

Relax, Vihaan!

He won’t do anything. Ruh has already taken a class of him. Be cool.

“I still don’t understand what my sister sees in you,” he muttered.

I smirked, “She sees a lot which you don’t need to see. And that’s okay, jiju. Not everyone has the vision to recognize greatness… handsomeness…charm. Clearly, you’re still stuck in your grumpy little robot phase.”

He glared at me muttering some words…but…but calm down. knowing his wife and my wife will again take a class of him.

Ruh’s parents kept poker faces, though tiny twitches at the corners of their mouths betrayed amusement.

Mumma grabbed my ear, “Bilkul sharam lihaaz nahi hai…na hi akal hai is ladke ko,” she said, twisting it slightly.

(He has absolutely no shame and not even a shred of sense, this boy)

“Ow! Mumma, it hurts!” I yelled, wriggling.

“Don’t you dare trouble my Ruhanika more…Although I’d be happy to be a grandmother soon, that doesn’t mean you’ll trouble her,” she continued, and I nodded quickly.

Yes, mumma. I surrender.

“Will anyone tell me what happened?” Ruh finally asked.

Please, no one tell her. Please.

Of course, Aashi couldn’t resist. She leaned in and whispered into Ruh’s ear. Ruh shot me a glare that screamed, Save me today.

We sat at the dining table.

“I… I can’t even look at anyone…” Ruh buried her face in her hands.

“Relax, Ruh. It’s just us… and apparently the entire family is listening. They seem happy we’re adding one more member,” I whispered.

“Ghar chalo tum, then I’ll see you,” she said, glaring at me and pinching my thigh under the table again.

“You have already seen everything,” I whispered, winking at ger.

She blinked at me, flustered.

I held her hand while we ate, squeezing it gently.

She’s so beautiful when embarrassed.

The teasing didn’t stop.

After dinner, we all moved to the hall.

“Aap sab mujhe bhul gaye?” Atharv said, sleepily walking downstairs in pajamas. He had fallen asleep before dinner.

Kunal jiju appeared from the kitchen, plate in hand, helping Atharv eat.

“Bua, mera gift!” Atharv said between bites.

“Hey, little tornado, call her mami,” I teased.

“She is my bua,” he said deadpan.

Well. The genes are gene-ing.

Ruh handed him the gift, and his face lit up.

“Thank you, bua! You are the best!” he said. Ruh kissed him on the cheek.

“First eat, Atharv,” Ruh reminded him.

“Waise, mamu, you lost to me… two cars and the subscription for level 6,” he said, smirking.

“Woah! Vihaan lost the game he made himself?” Aashika said in amusement.

“Yeah, only because of your sister… only if she….” I started, but Ruh pinched me hard under the table.

Ouch.

“Vihaan, you are going to sleep outside our bedroom” she said and i sighed knowing I should control my tongue.

Aarvi crawled toward me, giggling uncontrollably. I bent down and scooped her up into my arms, but she wiggled and squirmed, tiny hands reaching for everything around her.

Ruh hurried over, her fingers lightly brushing mine as she helped me steady Aarvi. She laughed softly, her eyes sparkling, as the little toddler tried to grab my hair and my shirt.

“Vihaan, careful!” Ruh whispered, guiding Aarvi’s hands gently, her voice full of warmth.

And Vansh was enjoying in her arms silently looking at her in amusement while talking in baby gibberish language.

Aashi, never missing a moment, clicked a picture of us with aarvi and vansh.

She send it to me. And showed the picture.

“I’ll be waiting for my nephew or niece one day,” she said, nudging me playfully.

Ruh’s eyes softened as she watched me, her hand brushing against mine as she leaned closer to steady Aarvi. While the little Aarvi is trying to touch the little vansh.

I looked down at the photo, a soft smile tugging at my lips.

This… this is exactly what I want.

My own little family, someday. Perfect chaos, tiny little humans running around, laughter echoing, perfect everything.

•••••

Three Days Later-

I was working when the phone rang.

I’d been browsing through catalogs, trying to find a surprise gift for Ruh our anniversary was coming up in just three weeks. Nothing felt perfect. I sighed, closed my laptop, and picked up the call.

It was from Yash but someone else spoke first.

“Whatttt?” I exclaimed, standing up and grabbing my keys. “Where are you now?”

I drove straight to the hospital, heart racing, imagining the stupid guy somehow in yet another mess.

When I reached his room, I found him sitting on the bed, munching on an apple, scrolling through his phone, and laughing.

“What the heck? I thought you were supposed to be in pain!” I said.

Yash looked up, grinning that ridiculous, infuriating grin, “I was…but I’m kinda fine. It still hurts a bit, though.”

I shook my head and grabbed his medical reports, scratches, fractured foot.

This man.

“You’re reading like you actually understand all this,” he said jokingly.

“My wife is a doctor. My in-laws are doctors. You think I wouldn’t know this basic stuff?…like reading reports,” I retorted, sitting beside him.

He tilted his head, pretending to ponder, “Yeah… fair point.”

Suddenly, Siddharth walked in, scrubbing his hands, “Why is it that every time you both husband and wife end up in a hospital? Don’t you guys have bedrooms for emergencies?”

I chuckled, shaking my head.

I touched his bandaged foot gently.

“Abeey kamine insaan, it’s hurting me!” he yelled dramatically. I yanked my hand back instantly. “Sorry, sorry!”

“Sid, did you call Tanya?” he asked.

Sid nodded. “Yeah, she’s coming.”

“It must be painful,” I said, trying to act sympathetic.

Yash grinned like it was a game, “Not at all! Just a small fracture…. will heal in a few days.”

And he happily munched on his snacks.

At that moment, Tanya walked in, frowning but trying to look casual.

“Urgh…. it’s so painful,” Yash groaned, rolling dramatically onto the bed.

I couldn’t help noticing his dramatic skills.

This man is more dramatic than Atharv.

Tanya tilted her head toward Sid, “How is he?”

Yash subtly pinched my arm, signaling something. Ah, I got it.

“Poor guy’s struggling…. maybe he needs someone to be with him,” I said, playing along.

Tanya’s glare immediately hit me.

Yep, caught.

“He’s fine,” Sid said flatly.

Tanya nodded.

“Okay… I’m sure he’ll be fine. I should go,” she added, walking toward the door.

Yash, giving her that ridiculous smile, muttered, “I know my wife cares that’s why you came, right?”

“Nope,” she said coolly, handing him a guava juice pack. Her face was valid of any emotion. “I’m here for humanity and formality… besides I had a routine checkup anyway.”

Yash groaned as she walked out, “Tanya! Can’t you stay here?”

But she walked away.

I smirked as I reached for the juice, but Yash swatted my hand away, “That’s mine!”

We both shook our heads, watching this weird, impossible couple.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have guessed they were married. Their wedding had been insane, full blown dramatic.

Tanya was still keeping him in line and making it hard for him.

Well he deserved it.

Sid leaned in, whispering, “Are you still going to fake it? She’ll get angry if she finds out.”

Yash sipped his juice, “I need a small excuse to get close to her…. she’s treating me like a stranger.”

“Don’t you dare hurt her again, or we’ll both teach you another lesson. Remember the last time?” Sid warned.

I patted his shoulder, as i remembered we three had a huge fight between us because of this reason.

Yash rolled his eyes but nodded, “Got it.”

“By the way, my dad will call you both soon. Don’t even think of saying a word and about this accident,” he added.

“Your dad is a dsp….and with his interrogation skills? He’ll know everything anyway,” Sid shrugged.

“Fine, just make sure Tanya doesn’t find out about it and especially my fake reports,” Yash muttered.

I sighed.

Tanya returned, sitting beside him silently. Yash tried to act pitifully.

“I know you will come because you care about your poor husband,” he said trying to sit.

She ignored him, handing him a food packet and placing his meds neatly, probably on Sid’s instruction.

He smiled sheepishly. Tanya’s face remained calm, but her eyes betrayed a hint of worry.

“Is it painful?” she asked.

“Yes! It’s terrible! I feel like-” he started, over-dramatizing.

“Eat,” Tanya said firmly, though her eyes softened slightly.

“Don’t think too much i didn’t come here because I wanted to…my mother asked me to be with you that’s why I am here just formal duty,” Tanya said flatly.

Yash’s smile faltered but he masked is expression apparently eating his food and meds.

Sid nudged me and I exchanged a knowing look and we both came out of the room.

Sid asked, “Do you think it’s okay to fake this?”

“If that stupid guy behaves, maybe,” I whispered back.

Sid added, “By the way, Tanya didn’t even have an appointment.”

Knew it.

I shook my head.

And then I glanced at Sid as he was busy staring at his phone, i peeked to which i just saw him smiling looking at a msg.

Yess… everything’s going well.

I looked at Sid, “Looks like things are fine.”

“She’s not scaring you too much, right?” he asked.

I chuckled, “Actually…she’s scary, but not scary.”

He gave that confused smile. I laughed. “Perfect couple material, indeed.”

One of my best friends had a full-on dramatic wedding, and the other didn’t even wait…just decided to get married in two days.

What a ridiculous, chaotic, insanely crazy thing it was.

I stepped into the hospital cafeteria during lunch break, hoping Ruh would be free. I wanted to surprise her, maybe steal ten minutes alone. She had been so busy lately that even waving at her felt like an achievement.

I spotted her near the corner of her mother’s cabin, talking on the phone to her mother.

She was in navy-blue scrubs, her stethoscope hanging loosely around her neck. Her hair was tied back, but a few strands fell near her cheek.

She looked tired but breathtaking.

My heart lifted, and I walked closer, smiling…until I heard somehing which hit me like a truck.

“Yes, and for a woman carrying triplets, the diet plan must be very strict. We have to monitor her every week…triplets pregnancy is never simple,” her mother said.

“I know, right? I got a little worried when I found out about this, but I guess a healthy routine and a stress-free environment can help,” Ruh replied softly.

Her mother nodded, sounding serious.

And that was the exact moment
the door swung halfway shut and completely closed.

Silence.

My brain short-circuited so violently I swear my soul left my body for a quick walk.

Triplets?
Pregnancy?
HER?

Wait…. Wait, WAIT-

Is she pregnant?
With TRIPLETS??

My vision shook. I feel like I can faint at any time.

I swear I saw three of everything.

“What a great stamina you have Vihaan Raichand. You literally pulled off buy 1 get 2 free deal,” i muttered under my breath, my voice laced with shocked and amusement.

I was about to collapse when someone grabbed my arm.

“Sir, are you okay?” It was Arun, the intern who always followed Ruh like a lost puppy.

I blinked at him, “You’re… looking like three.”

His eyebrows shot up, “What?”

“I’m going to be a father of three,” I whispered, horrified.

He stared at me, wide-eyed, “Sir…what?”

“How will she handle this? Three babies at once? This is too much for my Ruh,” I mumbled, holding my head.

The intern looked alarmed, “Sir, do you… need water?”

“I need a new brain,” I muttered. “A new, triple-capacity brain that can handle…three.”

He blinked rapidly, clearly regretting ever asking.

“Have you ever seen someone who looks like three without being drunk?” I asked seriously.

“Sir, maybe you should sit-“

“I should leave before I faint in front of three people. I mean, you’re one, but I see three!” I backed away slowly, muttering under my breath.

Triplets.

Don’t faint Vihaan Raichand.

Don’t.

I reached her cabin and collapsed onto the couch. My hands shook. My chest tightened. My brain replayed her words like a horror movie. Triplets. THREE.

I leaned back, staring at the ceiling. “I’m not ready for one… forget three. No, no, breathe, Vihaan…breathe…”

I cancelled everything Meetings, calls, presentations.
My head felt like someone had opened a pressure cooker inside it, and drove straight to house.

Triplets.
Three babies.
Three tiny humans.

I lay on the bed, arm on my forehead, breathing like a man going through labor himself.

My brain whispered on loop-“Three…three…three…”

Eventually, panic knocked me unconscious and I slept.

I woke up when it was almost evening and sat on the couch, waiting like an overdramatic movie hero staring at the door.

Finally, the door opened. Ruh walked in with her brother. The moment she saw me, her eyes lit up. She quickly sanitized her hands and ran toward me.

“Viiihaaaannn!” she sang, jumping into my arms. I caught her immediately, my heart leaping.

“Ruh! Careful!” I said, holding her waist. “Slow down.”

She smiled brightly and pressed a small peck on my lips, “Hi.”

Her happiness made me even more confused.

Is it because of earlier news.

“You’re very cheerful today,” I said, gently making her sit on my lap so she wouldn’t fall again.

She giggled and kissed me again, “Because something finally went right today.”

“What?” I tried to sound normal.

“You remember my special patient? The little girl? She healed completely. We’re discharging her tomorrow,” Ruh said, wrapping her arms around my neck again.

Oh.

It was her patient.

My soul slowly returned from wherever it had gone.

I lifted her gently and sat back on the couch, her on my lap.

“I’m proud of you,” I said, kissing her forehead.

She relaxed against me, talking about her rounds, OPD, and surgeries. Her fingers traced the veins on my forearm as she spoke. I didn’t understand half the medical terms, but I listened anyway. Her voice calmed me.

After a while, she stood up, tying her hair into a bun, “I should go take a shower. I smell like antiseptic.”

I nodded, still recovering from my mini heart attack earlier.

She reached the door but paused, “By the way….can we eat something spicy tonight? I’m craving it.”

My head snapped up. Spicy, Craving, Triplets. Panic hit me again.

“Yes?” she asked casually.

“Spicy,” I muttered under my breath.

I swallowed hard.

How is she going to handle everything?
How is her body going to manage this?
My head was spinning, panicking, calculating everything from nutrition to sleep to hospital visits.

And then another thought hit me like a truck.

Three types of cravings.
Does that happen? Do I need to preorder three cuisines every night? Oh God.

She leaned against the doorframe, one eyebrow raised, watching me melt into stress soup.

“Vihaan? You okay?”

I snapped my head toward her so fast I nearly dislocated something.

“Haan, yes…totally fine…perfect…very fine,” I said, nodding so rapidly.

She blinked slowly.
Her arms folded and stare narrowed.

“No… trip…ping…tripping over my own feet earlier,” I said quickly. “I’ll make something spicy for dinner.”

She smiled at me, slow and warm, the kind of smile that softened my knees and turned my chest into something fragile.

Then she simply turned around and walked upstairs. Calm, peaceful, completely relaxed, as if the world had not just shifted under my feet.

The door clicked shut behind her.

“Three” I whispered, pressing my palm over my heart. It was beating in a strange, frantic rhythm that felt almost illegal.

My breath wobbled. My legs threatened to give out.

She is carrying three and she has not even told me yet.
Of course she has not. She must be worried. She must be overwhelmed. She must be processing everything on her own.

But she walked away like she had just finished sipping tea and was going to change into pajamas.

Meanwhile I felt like I had aged twenty years in twenty minutes.

I dragged a hand through my hair and paced the hallway with the stiff movements of someone who had short-circuited internally.

“Okay Vihaan, breathe. Get a grip. She needs support. You will handle everything. You will not panic.”

I panicked anyway.

I rushed to the kitchen and grabbed a cold water bottle.

Then I froze.

Cold water might not be good.

I put it back and took a warm water bottle.

Then I panicked again because maybe she prefers room temperature when she is pregnant.

Pregnant with three.

I exhaled sharply and took all three bottles because my brain had no sense of logic left.

Now I stood there holding three bottles in my arms like a new employee trying to impress the hotel manager.

“Hydration is important. She should stay hydrated. Hydration is the foundation of life,” I muttered as I stared at the bottles in my hands.

Then I spotted the blankets.
She might feel cold. Or warm. Or something in between.

I picked one blanket.
I put it back.
I picked a lighter one.
I put it back again.
I finally grabbed three because choosing one felt like deciding which child I loved more.

Armed with three water bottles and two blankets, I climbed the stairs like a man carrying responsibilities he was not prepared for.

I knocked gently on the bedroom door.

No response.

I opened it a little and peeked inside.

She was standing in front of the mirror, brushing her hair. Her movements were relaxed. Her breathing was even. She looked perfectly fine.

“Ruh” I said carefully.

She turned and her eyebrows immediately rose, “Why do you have water bottles and blankets in your hands”

I stared at the items I was holding, betrayed by them once again.

“I thought you might need them” I said softly.

“Vihaan, I literally just came upstairs,” she replied.

“I know” I said, moving closer to her. My voice dropped without me realizing. “I just want to take care of you properly.”

Her expression softened and she stepped forward to kiss my cheek, “Okay.”

That one word nearly killed me in the best way.

Then she turned and began heading toward the kitchen.

Panic hit me again.

I reached for her wrist and held it gently, as if she was made entirely of glass, “Ruh, you do not need to cook. Please sit. I will handle it.”

She looked surprised but she allowed me to guide her to sit on the kitchen counter. She swung her legs slightly while watching me like I was behaving in a foreign language.

I cooked for her spicy and also some normal thing. What if she found it too spicy.

“Here. Spicy. You wanted spicy.”

She smiled and took a small bite, “You are acting very strange today.”

“I am not acting strange. I am being responsible” I said looking at her stomach with intense concentration.

She checked her phone, scrolling through patient emails, probably medical emergencies and follow-ups. I watched her carefully every few seconds. Her breathing. Her posture. Her energy. I felt like monitoring her was the only job I had left in this world.

She finally looked up and caught me staring at her again.

“Vihaan” she said in a suspicious tone.

“What is happening. You are behaving differently.”

I stood and went to her, placing my hands gently on her knees.

“Ruh, listen to me” I said quietly.

She tilted her head, giving me her full attention.

“I know things might be stressful for you. Maybe you are thinking about it a lot. Maybe you are trying to decide something. You do not have to tell me anything before you are ready. But I want you to know that whatever it is, I am with you. Every decision. Every step. You do not have to handle it alone.”

Her lips parted slightly. She blinked twice, clearly moved yet confused.

Then she said, “Vihaan, I know you care but you are still acting weird.”

Her voice held a mix of concern and amusement.

I exhaled, my forehead dropping lightly against her knee.

I wrapped my hand around her fingers and kissed them softly.

“I will take care of everything, Ruh. Whatever comes, I am here.”

•••••

Next morning I reached my office, caffeine in hand, I was shaking. I had barely sat down when Naman, my PA, entered with his tablet.

“Sir, we have three major tasks today for the game launch.”

My hand twitched. Three? My mind immediately jumped to the number that had ruined my life this morning. Triplets. Three babies. Three diapers.

Naman stood in front of me.

“Fine. What is the first task?” I asked. My voice sounded like I had already died once today.

“We have to test the new update for the game,” Naman said. “They added a Triple Mode.”

I froze.

Not again.

Triple. Triple. Triple.

My eyelids twitched.

“In Triple Mode, the game runs three levels at the same time,” Naman said. “And they sent three install files.”

My hand flew to my chest like I was protecting my heart from breaking.

“Why is everything three today?” I whispered. I sounded like a man who had seen ghosts.

Naman stared at me, “Sir, are you okay?”

“No. Obviously not.” I rubbed my forehead and leaned back like gravity suddenly doubled. “Next task. Please tell me it does not include number three.”

Naman checked his list. His face fell. That was not a good sign.

“Sir… we got bug reports.”

“How many?” I asked slowly, praying.

He swallowed hard.

“Three.”

I closed my eyes, “This is not normal anymore.”

“I know,” Naman whispered.

I dropped my face into my hands.

Naman took a step back like I was a ticking bomb.

“Should I bring water?” he asked gently.

“No. Today the water will come in three drops, I know it,” I muttered.

He nodded slowly, placed the tablet on my desk, and backed away like I might throw the mouse at him.

I stared at the screen, completely broken.

I was absolutely, completely, catastrophically not fine.

I spun my laptop toward myself and typed the most desperate search in human history- “How to handle triplets without dying as a father.”

Google attacked immediately-

Extra take care of mother
No sleep for two years
Triple feeding schedule
Triple crying fits
30 diapers per day
Must support mother emotionally

What? Is Google pranking me right now?

I rubbed my face, “She JUMPED on me yesterday…no. No. God… no more jumping. Bubble-wrap Ruh. Completely.”

I grabbed a sticky note with shaking hands and started writing like my life depended on it.

“No lifting”
Because she jumps on me every day. Not anymore. Never again.

“No running”
She runs like a baby tornado. That has to stop. For safety. For my sanity.

“No stairs”
Our house has stairs. I hate our house.

“Handle cravings”
If she wants ice cream at midnight, I will run. If she wants spicy at 3 a.m., I will cry but still run.

“Buy vitamins”
All of them. Maybe I should buy the whole pharmacy.

“Proper schedule”
She needs rest, food, naps and zero stress.

I stared at the note.

It looked like a survival guide for a man preparing for triplets he wasn’t even sure existed.

I whispered, “I can do this.”

My brain whispered back, “No you can’t.”

I shut the laptop. My brain threatened rebellion.

•••••

It had been a week since the triplets “news” hit me like a meteor straight to my chest. Seven days of pacing, panicking, Googling, and talking to inanimate objects because I wasn’t sure I could handle human interaction anymore.

My brain was running a triple loop, three babies and Ruh hadn’t even told me. Maybe she wasn’t ready. Maybe she was scared.

I stared at Skully, my first child sitting on my desk like an eternal judge.

“Skully,” I whispered, pointing at its hollow eyes, “do you realize what could happen in nine months? Three tiny humans… three times the chaos and I have to be a nice father. A supportive husband. Gentle. Calm. Not freak out like… like last week.”

Skully didn’t blink. Typical skeleton behavior. But I imagined it was nodding.

“You are going to be a big brother?” I muttered.

Am i going crazy?

“Okay, focus, Vihaan. She’s probably tired. She’s been working. She hasn’t told me yet. Don’t be a maniac. Don’t act like…like you’re scared of a sandwich that might explode. Just…be nice. Be normal.”

I straightened my posture, inhaled deeply, and tried to act calmly. But my hands were shaking anyway.

The sound of the front door opening made my heart leap like it had been training for the Olympics.

Ruh stepped inside, exhausted, hair tied messily in a bun, still in her scrubs. She adjusted her bag on her shoulder. She looked adorable and worn-out, and my chest tightened painfully.

I straightened immediately, standing taller than humanly necessary. My entire body switched to Vihaan Care Mode.

Ruh frowned, “Why are you standing like a statue?”

“I…uh…I’m just…here,” I stammered, my voice way too loud, my hands twitching as if they were auditioning for a drama role.

She walked past me, and my feet followed her automatically, like she was a falling rocket I needed to catch.

She set her bag down on the sofa. I darted forward like it was made of uranium.

“I’ll keep it! You shouldn’t lift anything heavy,” I said, snatching it up with both hands.

She stared at me, “It’s literally a bag with a lip balm and my ID and a little cash.”

“Still! Heavy for you!” I countered, taking a step back as if the bag might explode.

“What?? Since when??” She asked looking at me.

“Since today,” I swallowed audibly.

She stepped closer, and I flinched. My hands hovered like a nervous referee ready to catch a tumble.

“Careful!” I said, panicking unnecessarily.

Ruh narrowed her eyes, “Vihaan. What is wrong with you? I have been seeing this behaviour of yours since last week.”

“I just want you safe,” I whispered, shaking slightly. My lips pressed together because otherwise I might start crying over how delicate she looked.

“Safe from what?” she asked, suspicious.

“Uhmm Ruh, I was just saying…” I said trying to hide my panic.

She sighed shaking her head.

Ruh stepped aside in front of the mirror, brushing her hair calmly, completely unaware of the storm of worry swirling inside me. I couldn’t look away. Every thought in my head was about her.

She looks fine but what if she isn’t? What if she’s tired? What if she feels dizzy? What if… oh God… what if something happens to her?

I took a careful step closer, my hands twitching, ready to hold her, steady her, protect her from everything.

Okay, Vihaan. Breathe. Calm. She’s okay. She’s fine. But what if she’s not?

She started changing into fresh clothes. My eyes flicked to her stomach just for a second but my chest tightened immediately.

She’s going through so much. It’s going to be difficult for her. She needs me. I have to do everything right. Everything. I’ll make sure she eats. I’ll make sure she rests. I’ll handle cravings. I’ll carry her if I have to. I’ll never let her lift anything. I’ll never let her run. I’ll… I’ll be the best husband I can. The best father I can be.

She tossed her kurti onto the bed and slipped on another.

“Stop staring at me, Vihaan,” she said, still adjusting her clothes.

My eyes, however, were stuck on her stomach.

I couldn’t help it. I was worried for her, terrified of how hard this could be for her.

“Stop staring! I know I’m getting fat,” she said in irritation, hitting me gently with a pillow.

I stood up quickly and wrapped my arms around her.

“No, Ruh. You are not getting fat. You are beautiful exactly as you are. I love you,” I said, pressing a kiss to her lips, then to her cheek.

She smiled softly and then moved toward the stool to reach the top shelf in the wardrobe. My heart nearly stopped.

“Ruh…wait!” I shouted, panic rising. “Careful! Don’t fall!”

She looked down at me, laughing softly. “Vihaan, I’m fine.”

“No, you’re not fine if you fall!” I said, holding my hands out like I was about to catch her. “I can’t.. I can’t let anything happen to you and our three babies.”

She looked at me eyes widened, “three babies? Whose babies?”

Uhmm What??

“YOU’RE PREGNANT WITH THREE!”

“You’re pregnant with three!” Vihaan blurted, his face a strange mix of horror and excitement.

I froze, blinking at him.

“What?”

“Triplets. Three babies.”

My knees almost gave way.

My head felt like it was spinning. I might faint.

“Ruh are you okay?” he asked, concern creeping into his voice.

I stared at him, utterly lost, “How did you even think that?”

He pointed at me, like he’d solved the greatest mystery of the universe, “Your mother, she was talking about taking care of you and triplets!”

“That was my patient, Vihaan,” I said flatly. He blinked, then his eyes widened.

“But you crave spicy food.”

“I always crave spicy food,” I muttered.

“You were walking slowly.”

“I always walk slowly.”

“You didn’t like that perfume smell…” he added.

“Because I poured too much and it was strong.”

“And Google said-“

“You Googled triplets?” My eyes went wide.

He nodded proudly, like a proud toddler who learned to walk, “Yes.”

I groaned and pressed my forehead into my palm, “I’m going to kill you.”

“So… you’re not pregnant?” His hope was almost painful to watch.

“No.”

“Not even a little bit?” he asked looking at my stomach.

“I snapped, giving him a look that could melt steel.

“Vihaan, do you hear yourself? ‘A little bit pregnant’?“

I raised an eyebrow, leaning back slightly, pretending to be innocent.

“Pregnancy isn’t like adding salt to food. You don’t sprinkle a pinch of embryo and get a tiny baby.”

He scratched the back of his head nervously, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips, “yeah, i know”

I poked him lightly in the chest, my eyes blazing, “Stupid chimpanzee. This is exactly why you shouldn’t bunked your biology classes in school.”

“You don’t need to say this,” he said scratching his head.

“And why were you acting like I was made of glass?” I added.

“Because… Google said-“

“Stop listening to Google!”

He raised a finger like a kid, “But Google knows things.”

“Not about My Uterus,” I said, sighing, rubbing my forehead.

Seriously, what did I do to deserve this husband?

But I love him so much.

Finally, he clamped his mouth shut. I exhaled slowly, letting some tension leave me.

“You are such a stupid chimpanzee,” I muttered.

Vihaan slumped beside me on the couch, “Thank God. I thought I was going to become a father of three all at once.”

I raised an eyebrow, “And what exactly would you do with three babies?”

His eyes widened in horror, “Panic. Cry. Faint. Then repeat.”

I laughed, feeling my chest lighten.

“Do not laugh. I aged ten years today!” he protested.

“It’s funny,” I said, shaking my head.

“But why was your mother talking so carefully about triplets?” he asked softly, concern creeping back.

I tilted my head, thinking, “She wasn’t talking about me. It was her patient, a woman who had surgery a few months ago and wants to keep her pregnancy. We were just discussing what she needed to do. You only saw part of the conversation the patient was right next to me, but you didn’t see her.”

He nodded slowly, trying to process it, but I couldn’t help letting out a small laugh at how relieved he looked.

“This isn’t funny, Ruh,” he muttered, glaring at me.

“It is,” I said, leaning into him.

His pouted like a child.

“Come here,” I said, pulling him close.

I moved closer to him, letting my fingers tangle lightly in his hair. He leaned into me, resting his head against my chest, and I could feel the tension in him slowly ease. His soft exhale pressed into me, warm and comforting.

“Why are you so cute?” I whispered, brushing my thumb across his temple.

“I was just scared,” he murmured, his voice low and almost shy. “Worried about how we… how everything would be. And especially for you”

Aww. I kissed his corner of lips.

He always worried, always overthought, and somehow that made my chest tighten with warmth.

I pressed my lips to the side of his head, “Vihaan, even if it had been true, I think we would have managed. Somehow, together.”

He traced the pendant resting on my chest, brushing over my skin lightly.

“I do not know,” he admitted quietly, and I felt the honesty in him, unguarded.

I smiled, soft and slow, letting my cheek rest against his hair.

“I know. But I trust you. I would have trusted you to do your best. You would have been a good husband, and you will be a good father.”

His fingers tightened slightly around my hand, “I would have worried about you more than anything. Three babies at once that would be overwhelming.”

I nodded, feeling a small, secret part of me stirred with thoughts I wasn’t ready to say aloud, “And someday if it really happens do you think we are ready to start a family?”

He looked down at me, a small frown tugging at his lips, “No.”

I bit my lip, brushing my fingers lightly over his hair, “And what if this whole thing turns out to be true? Do you think we’re ready to start a family?”

He exhaled slowly, eyes focused on mine, “No”

My chest tightened. Not ready…? Was he saying that because he didn’t want it, or because he cared too much and wanted to be absolutely sure he could handle it?

I searched his face, trying to read the truth behind his calm words.

He shifted slightly and asked softly, “The real question is… do you think you’re ready?”

I felt my heart flutter. My hand moved to his, holding it gently, pressing a small kiss to the back of his wrist.

“I… I don’t know,” I admitted. “Maybe… maybe not yet.”

He smiled gently, nudging his shoulder against mine, “Then when you’re ready, I’ll be ready too.”

I smiled back, but inside, a small knot of worry churned. He wasn’t completely ready and maybe neither was I. But at least we were honest with each other. That mattered.

“You know,” he said, a teasing glint in his eyes, “I’ve literally planned everything. The nursery, the list of what we’ll need, how to take care of you even the bedtime routines.”

I laughed, sinking back into the couch as he pulled me close.

“You didn’t faint hearing this news?” I asked, amused, tucking myself into the curve of his arm.

He shook his head, though a small grin tugged at his lips.

“That was something so shocking even when fainting wasn’t enough,” he admitted, pressing a soft kiss to my shoulder. We both laughed, and it felt like the kind of laughter that could chase away all the tension of the day.

He held me a little tighter, his fingers brushing over mine.

“Right now, I want only you, he murmured, voice low and tender.

“Honestly,I want to have a family, but it’s a big step. A huge responsibility,” he admitted.

I nodded, my hand finding his, “Yeah. I feel the same. It’s exciting, but scary too.”

I pressed a small kiss to his wrist, feeling his warmth seeping through me.

He gave my hand a gentle squeeze.

“I keep thinking what if I fail you? Or… or what if I’m not ready for all the things a parent has to handle? Sleepless nights, constant care, and responsibility….” His voice softened at the end, almost hesitant.

I brushed my thumb over his knuckles.

“I worry about that too,” I admitted.

“What if I’m not patient enough? What if I get overwhelmed?”

He tilted his head, looking at me with that familiar soft intensity, “But then I remember…we’ll have each other. We won’t be alone in it. We’ll figure things out together, even the hard parts.”

I smiled, resting my head against his shoulder.

I looked up at him, seeing that same flicker of worry mirrored in his eyes, the part he didn’t always show.

“We’re both scared,” I said softly. “And that’s okay. Maybe that’s normal.”

“Yeah,” he murmured. “Fear doesn’t mean we’re failing. It just means we care. And I..I care about you more than I have ever cared about anything else.”

He brushed a strand of hair behind my ear, “Even the thought of you carrying our little one… it scares me in the best way.”

I felt a tiny flutter in my chest at his words.

“I feel that too,” I admitted. “I mean thinking about having a baby, it’s so overwhelming but also kind of magical.”

He smiled, resting his hand over mine on my stomach, “I keep imagining us trying, fumbling, laughing at ourselves, learning as we go. Messy, chaotic, but ours. I want to be there for every little moment.”

I leaned closer, resting my head against his chest, “Sometimes I imagine tiny hands grabbing mine and it makes my heart race.”

He laughed quietly, the sound warm against me, “I think about that too. The little noises, the tiny feet, even the messy diaper days… I want to be there for all of it. I don’t want to miss a single thing.”

I reached up to touch his cheek. “You really are ready…. in your heart, even if your mind is still figuring it out.”

He smiled softly, resting his forehead against mine again, “I think we’re both ready…just in our own ways. I’ve never done this before, but with you, I feel like we can handle it. We’ll stumble, we’ll laugh, maybe cry but we’ll do it together.”

“Together,” I echoed. “And that’s enough. We don’t need to have all the answers now. Just… love each other and figure it out as we go.”

He pulled me fully into his lap, wrapping his arms around me.

I rested my head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart.

I felt a surge of warmth thinking about him as a father, imagining him holding a tiny, wriggling little person, his careful hands, that teasing smile.

But for now I shook my head, pushing the thoughts aside.

“But I have to admit,” I murmured softly, a playful lilt in my voice, “the stamina thing… doesn’t seem entirely true. I mean…it just doesn’t work.”

He raised an eyebrow, eyes glinting with mischief, “Excuse me?”

“You are excused,” I said, my thumb tracing the curve of his lower lip as I leaned in, letting my lips brush against his in a slow, teasing kiss.

He grinned against me, and before I could react, he flipped us over, pressing his body gently but firmly against mine. My heart raced as his lips captured mine again, slow and demanding.

His hands slid the top buttons of my shirt open, fingers brushing over my skin in a way that made me shiver.

“Seems like someone is making me do all the work,” he murmured, his voice dropping lower, rougher, eyes dark as he pressed closer. “And I’m not sure I’m complaining not when you’re the reason my hands can’t stop roaming.”

I gasped softly, my fingers tangling in his hair as he trailed kisses from my lips down to my collarbone. I could feel the heat radiating from him, playful and bold, yet careful.

I melted against him, our laughter softening into quiet sighs, his hands exploring with just the right mix of daring and tenderness.

My hand rested on his chest, feeling the steady beat beneath my palm, and for a moment, it was just us, intimate, alive, and completely consumed by each other.

•••••

FEW DAYS LATER-

The evening air was calm and warm, carrying the faint scent of orchids from the little pots Vihaan insisted on keeping all around the house. the thought of our anniversary made my heart flutter in a way I couldn’t ignore.

Today was ours….a day we would always remember. Our one year anniversary.

Night had settled in. Our family had already wished us, and earlier in the day, we celebrated with a small picnic. But now, it was just the two of us, alone in our little bubble.

I had dressed carefully in a maroon saree, the silk soft against my skin, and wore the pendant necklace that Vihaan loved so much.

My hands trembled slightly as I placed his gift in a small box, imagining his face when he saw it. I had planned a surprise dinner for him.

Since the weather was bad, I hadn’t decorated the terrace as I had imagined, but I had transformed a cozy corner of the balcony and our bedroom instead. Candles flickered softly, casting warm light, and I hoped it felt intimate enough.

Then I heard the door open. My heart leapt into my throat. It was him-Vihaan.

I peeked up, holding my breath. He stood there, looking different. His usual confident, cheeky grin was softened by a subtle nervousness I hadn’t seen before.

“Happy anniversary, Ruh,” he said softly, his voice catching slightly as if he had run the entire way here.

I looked up at him with a soft smile, my voice barely above a whisper, “Happy anniversary to us, Vihaan.”

He stepped closer and wrapped me in a gentle hug, pressing a tender kiss to my forehead. I melted against him, feeling the warmth of his body and the familiar rhythm of his heartbeat.

“Am I late?” he asked, glancing at the clock.

“I guess a little,” I said with a teasing smile. “But I am forgiving you, my dear husband.”

He chuckled, that sound making my chest flutter, and I pulled a chair for him.

He looked at me and whispered, “that was supposed to be my department”

“Have a seat,” I said, giggling.

He smiled as he settled down. He wore a crisp white shirt that fit him perfectly, elegant yet simple.

But something seemed missing…something that made my chest squeeze with utter pride.

I walked to him and pressed a soft kiss on his collarbone, leaving a faint trace of my lipstick.

“Now you’re looking like my Vihaan,” I whispered.

He looked down at me, eyes sparkling, and nodded with a small grin.

Dinner was simple, but perfect. He had brought a cheesecake from my favorite bakery, and we ate slowly, savoring each bite, occasionally stealing small glances at one another.

The soft patter of rain against the balcony roof made everything feel more magical, as if the world had paused just for us.

“Want to have a dance, like old times?” he asked suddenly, reaching for my hand.

I nodded, smiling, and he put on Tum Se Hi.

The familiar music filled the room as we swayed together, his hand warm on my waist. I rested my head lightly on his shoulder, feeling the closeness of him, the steady strength he always gave me.

“It’s been a year since we married,” I murmured, my voice soft against the music.

“One year of holding each other,” he whispered back, brushing a gentle kiss over the corner of my lips. I giggled, feeling a shiver of happiness run through me.

“And ten years of being together,” I added softly, resting my head against his chest, “through every laugh, every fight, every little moment.”

We twirled slowly, the rain lightly tapping against the balcony, before he gently led me back inside. I looked outside. The rain was pouring.

“No, don’t think of getting wet. You’ll catch a cold,” he said, though the warmth in his eyes betrayed his teasing tone.

I pouted but obeyed, settling beside him on the couch.

Then he reached behind him and pulled out a small velvet box, his eyes shining as he extended it toward me.

“Vihaan…” I breathed, my heart skipping a beat.

“Open it,” he urged, fidgeting slightly. “I hope you like it. It took me forever to choose.”

I lifted the lid and gasped softly. Inside were delicate white-gold earrings carved like orchids, each with a tiny pale amethyst at the center. They were elegant and unique.

“They’re beautiful,” I whispered, brushing my fingers over them.

“You like them?” he asked, relief washing over his features.

“I love them. Thank you,” I said, smiling at him. He gave a small, playful bow as if the gesture came naturally to him.

I slipped them on, checking myself in the mirror.

“Perfect,” I murmured, feeling a warmth bloom in my chest.

Then came the moment I had been both excited for and nervous about. My hands shook slightly as I reached for the folder in my bag. My heart was racing, but I knew I had to tell him.

“Vihaan… there’s something I need to tell you,” I said softly, trying to steady my voice.

He leaned forward, brushing his fingers lightly against mine.

“What is it?” His voice was soft, but there was an edge of tension I couldn’t ignore. His eyes searched mine, and I could feel the pulse of anticipation in the space between us.

I swallowed hard, my chest tightening as I reached for the folder. My fingers trembled slightly, and I felt as though I were holding a tiny secret that could change everything.

“Vihaan…you need to see this,” I whispered, my voice barely audible.

He gave me a small, reassuring nod, but his eyes held a spark of worry, the way he always did when he sensed I was nervous. Slowly, deliberately, I handed him the folder.

He opened it carefully, his fingers lingering on the edges as if touching the paper alone might reveal the secret before his eyes.

His gaze moved over the pages…reports, ultrasound scans, tiny little hearts faintly drawn on a card which I made. His brows furrowed as he tilted his head, a sharp inhale escaping him.

I stayed silent, watching him, my heart pounding against my ribs like it was trying to escape.

His expression shifted in the slowest increments from curiosity to disbelief, then to the kind of stunned awe that made my stomach flutter.

“I… I am going to be a father?” His words were barely a whisper, almost trembling as if he were afraid to believe them.

I nodded, my fingers brushing against his, “Yes. You’re going to be the father of one tiny little munchkin.”

His body stiffened, and I could feel the weight of the news settle over him, “Ruh, it says you’re six weeks pregnant. That means…when we were talking earlier, you were already pregnant, but you didn’t tell me?”

“I didn’t know myself until just a week ago,” I explained softly. He nodded slowly, still looking a little stunned.

My heart fluttered nervously. Was he ready? Was he happy?

I nervously turned around.

“We’re going to be parents,” I heard him murmur, wonder and awe lacing his voice.

THUD-

I turned to saw but, in classic Vihaan fashion, he collapsed dramatically onto the floor, throwing his hands over his face.

“Vihaan! Do you faint now?” I asked, rushing to him.

I went to his side, worried about him. My heart is panicking.

But he sprang up immediately, grinning mischievously, waving the folder.

“No, Ruh… this time I didn’t faint,” he said, brushing himself off.

“You scared me! Offo, Vihaan..kya karu mai tumhara ?” I asked, exasperated but smiling, sitting beside him.

(what am I supposed to do with you?)

“Aap bas pyaar karo mujhse, baki sab Mai kar lunga-nahi-maine toh already kar dia na,” he teased, pulling me onto his lap.

(You just love me, I’ll take care of the rest-no wait-I’ve already taken care of it, haven’t I?)

“How..how can you be such a shameless fool?” I murmured, half-laughing as he gently guided me to sit on his lap.

My heart beat wildly as I leaned against him, feeling the steady warmth of his chest.

We went over the ultrasound together, Vihaan’s hand gently sliding to my waist as he studied each image. His eyes softened with every tiny detail, and I couldn’t help but find the tenderness in him, the man who had always been playful and teasing, now completely awed and protective.

“Ruh…we’re going to be parents. And skully is going to be a big brother” he murmured again, voice choked with emotion.

I chuckled knowing he remembered skully too.

“You’re happy?” I asked softly, brushing my fingers against his cheek.

“What… happy would be too small a word,” he whispered, tears brimming in his eyes. “I am… I am feeling everything at once. Excited, scared, joyful… I’ve never felt this much all together.”

I hugged him tightly, my chest pressed against his, “I’m happy too, Vihaan. So, so happy.”

He buried his face in my hair, holding us both close.

“I love you, Vihaan,” I said, resting my head against his chest.

His arms tightened around me, holding us like we were the only two in the world. And his hand resting on my stomach caressing it slowly.

“I love you more and our little one too,” he whispered, his voice trembling as a soft sob escaped him.

My heart clenched.
I lifted my hand and brushed the tear sliding down his cheek. He closed his eyes like even that touch steadied him.

“Hey…” I whispered, cupping his jaw gently. “It’s okay. I’m right here.”

He leaned his forehead into my palm for a second, breathing shakily, as if trying not to fall apart entirely.

“Can you… can you explain everything to me?” he murmured. “Please. I want to know exactly what’s happening.”

“Of course,” I said softly, shifting on his lap.

I opened the folder, the pages rustling quietly between us.

He held my waist lightly, as if making sure I didn’t slip, careful, gentle, completely tuned into me.

“Okay,” I whispered, guiding his hand so he held the report with me. “Let’s start here.”

His eyes moved between my face and the page, trusting me completely.

“This black oval,” I pointed, “is the gestational sac. It’s like the baby’s very first home inside me.”

He nodded slowly, as if memorizing every word.

“And this tiny bright dot is the yolk sac. For now, it gives the baby everything it needs to grow.”

His lips parted softly, his breaths turning deeper, steadier.

“And this…” I touched the faint white line, “is the fetal pole. That’s the baby right now. Just a few millimeters.”

He stared at it, blinking a few times, overwhelmed.

“Ruh…” he whispered, “that tiny little thing is ours?”

“Yes,” I murmured, my voice warm with emotion.

He swallowed hard, his throat working as he held back another wave of feelings.

“And here,” I showed him the last line, “it says ‘cardiac activity detected’. That means the heartbeat has already started. It’s like a tiny flicker.”

His whole body went still.

“A heartbeat….” he said softly looking at the scan.

He didn’t speak.
He didn’t move.

Then, with the gentlest movement, he slid his hand toward my stomach, slowly, almost shyly like he was touching something sacred.

But he paused midway.

I smiled softly and took his hand, guiding it the rest of the way to my tummy.

His palm settled there, warm and careful.

He looked up at me, eyes glistening, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Does it feel anything yet?”

“No,” I said gently, placing my hand over his. “But it knows you’re here. I promise it does.”

His fingers curled protectively across my tummy, like he was shielding both of us.

“Ruh…” he breathed, voice cracking, “I didn’t know I could feel this much love at once.”

I stroked his hair, brushing it back from his forehead kissing his forehead.

He lifted my hand and kissed my palm, holding it against his cheek.

Then he bent down and rested his forehead softly on my belly so softly it felt like a prayer.

“Hi, little one…” he whispered shakily, “I am your father. A little bit stupid. But I’ll take care of you. I swear I will.”

My eyes filled instantly.

He stayed there for a moment, just breathing against my stomach, his thumb stroking slow circles, gentle, protective, loving.

When he lifted his head, his face was calm, peaceful, glowing with a new softness.

“Ruh,” he said quietly, brushing my hair back behind my ear, “thank you…I mean it’s…”

I leaned into his touch, “Vihaan, you’re the safest place for both of us.”

His arms pulled me close, not tight, just enough to hold me steady and warm.

We curled into each other, his chin resting on my shoulder, his hand never leaving my tummy, caressing it softly like it was the most precious thing he had ever touched.

The candles flickered.
The rain whispered outside.

The rain continued outside, drumming softly against the balcony roof, but inside, the world felt still and perfect. I rested my hand on his chest, feeling the rise and fall of his breathing, the warmth of him radiating into me.

And in the quiet warmth of our little home, he held me and our tiny heartbeat with a tenderness that melted everything inside me.

For a long while, we just stayed there, wrapped in each other, letting the quiet joy of the moment sink in, letting the rain outside be the soundtrack to the most important moment of our lives.

——————————————
Missed me???🤭

So how was the chapter??

My babies are gonna have their own babies🥹🤌🏻

Your favourite scene??

Mine was when Ruh was explaining the scan and reports to him😭
(That the whole thing is from Google i just know the basic thing about this so i searched for it..if something is wrong do let me know or think of this as fiction)

What if that triplets thing turned out to be true💀
I can’t stop laughing at this 🤣

Btw i am so sorry i updated this late… because of some reason i wasn’t able to update earlier…. I know I said I would update on my bday and you all were waiting for it. I’m really sorry, but i am just three days late🥹

Ab acche se vote and comment kar dena 😋

Enjoy Reading ❤️

Will update the next epilogue by the end of December hopefully.

Bye Cutiepies…!!🍁

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