Title is the song 'Hum dum' from movie 'Shiddat'

Naina swallowed, "Matlab... I'm pregnant."

Time paused for Sameer. His eyes forgot to blink. Everything around him faded... except Naina.

She felt her throat choke with inexplicable emotions. She had heard what he said from outside the door... but still wasn't sure if he was ready to take this. It brought back the memories... and she trembled as she recalled how it had effected him last time.

"Maine... maine koi medicines nahi li. Mujhe toh khyal bhi nahi aaya... sachhi Sameer, maine socha tak nahi. Woh toh Preeti ki doctor ne bola kyonki..." She looked at him nervously, "...mummy ko laga... woh ice cream..." Unable to go on, she pressed her lip with her teeth.

Sameer was still in a daze, though her nervous mumbling did reach him. When he had agreed to go ahead, he had just started to prepare himself... he hadn't seen this coming. In fact, his mind was in conflict now. Should he rejoice, or not raise his hopes... should he listen to his heart which was ready to burst with joy, or should he go with his rational mind and wait till they see the doctor... should he tell her he wanted this as much as her, or should he keep himself in check for her sake...

He blinked, his heart beating at unthinkable speed, "Yeh test... kya yeh... matlab aise hi check ho jaata hai kya, iss chote se strip pe?"

She glanced at the kit, "Doctor ne kaha tha. Unhone hi diya yeh kit."

Sameer swallowed, "Doctor se puchein?"

Preeti's doctor had already left. It was quite late. Though she had Dr Amrita's number, Naina thought it wouldn't be appropriate to call at this hour. When she had said she would do the test next morning, it was only to get away from that situation. In pure honesty, she was dying to do it... without letting anyone know of the result. This possibility hadn't occurred to her earlier, but now that Vishakha had put the doubt in her mind, she couldn't wait another second after reaching her room.

As she stood before Sameer, having confirmed the result not once or twice, but half a dozen times, she was more or less sure of it's accuracy. But she couldn't say it with same conviction to him.

"Kya hum... iss ek test ko... is it...?" Sameer fumbled for right words, as flummoxed as her.

Naina shook her head fiercely, "Ek nahi, maine che baar kiya. Dekho."

She held his wrist and dragged him to the washroom. On the counter, there were five more similar strips... two pink lines bright and clear on each one.

He stared at them in shock, "Doctor ne tumhe itni baar test karne ko bola?"

She again waved her head in negation, "Unhone toh ek hi kit diya tha." Next moment, her head shot up at him as she realised her folly.

Sameer gave her a curious look.

She closed her eyes for a moment, steeling herself, then looked at him earnestly, "Sameer, please gussa mat hona. Main tumse chupana nahi chahti thi. Bas... bas tumhe phir se uss condition mein nahi dekh sakti thi."

"Ky... kya matlab?" He was more confounded now, "Kya tum..."

"Never." She placed a hand on his arm, pinching her throat with other, "I swear maine apna promise nahi toda. Ek din bhi medicine nahi li, na kisi bhi doctor ke paas gayi." She paused, letting out a breath, "Winters mein ek baar mujhe six weeks tak periods nahi hue toh main... maine tab yeh kits khareede the. Lekin tab test negative aaya. Uske baad maine sochna hi chod diya."

He was taken aback, "Naina, tumne mujhe bataya kyon nahi?"

"Mujhe laga pehle confirm kar lun warna tum... tumhe dukh hoga." She stuttered.

He drew in a sharp breath, "Kitni baar aisa hua?"

She lowered her eyes, "Uske baad se dates ka hisaab nahi rakhti. Isliye iss baar khyal hi nahi aaya. Par aaj... jab iss ek test mein positive aaya toh yakeen nahi hua. Maine saare purane kits nikale aur sabme test karke dekha." She swallowed, "Sabme same result tha."

He gawked at the six kits placed in a line on the counter, each one similar to what Naina had shown. Six times... a positive result six times would definitely be correct... or was there a chance of having a defective lot. He licked his lips nervously, recalling that previous time doctor had taken Naina for a scan.

He looked at her, "Woh jo last time... Dr Amrita ke yahan jo test kiya tha... woh nahi karana padega?"

She nodded, "Kal subah sabse pehle wahin jayenge."

He dipped his head, turned and walked out of the washroom. Naina could understand his reluctance to accept the result. She didn't know what had brought him to say all that he said earlier, what had changed his mind... but she could comprehend how arduous it would be for him, to face the same fears.

As he reached the center of the room, Sameer halted and turned around swiftly. In a couple of long strides, he reached Naina and enveloped her in a tight hug, burying his face in her hair. She stumbled with the sudden force, but was secure in his arms. He pulled her more and more close, promising himself that he wouldn't let anything mess their happiness. Somewhere in his heart, he felt this time it was for real.

Parting from her, he blinked in assurance, "Kal subah."

She nodded, the tightness in her heart easing as she looked into his eyes, which sparkled with happiness. She wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head on his heart. Faster than normal rhythm resonated in her ear. She smiled. He was definitely very happy.

His next sentence strengthened her belief, "I love you. Main har step pe tumhare saath hun Naina. Tum bilkul mat ghabrana."

They spent a sleepless night, lost in a whirlpool of fearful thoughts, yet a nervous excitement had set their hearts aflutter.

Harmeet had informed her that Naina no longer wanted to continue the treatment hence Dr Amrita was surprised to see them , "Arre Naina, tum itne dino baad? All well?"

She opened her mouth to explain, but couldn't find any words. Quietly, she brought out the strip on which she had conducted the test and placed it on the table.

Dr Amrita smiled, "That's great. Let's see how the baby is doing."

They looked at each other, unable to mask the feeling of bliss at doctor's words.

When Naina returned to the room after her scan, one look at her beaming face was enough for Sameer to know. Hastily pushing back the chair, he got up and pulled her in his arms. He wanted to say so much, but had no words. All he could do was soak in the heavenly realisation. His heart was ecstatic with joy at the thought of having a baby. Lifting his head, he gazed into her brimming eyes.

"Yeh moment main kabhi nahi bhulunga Naina. Jo tumne diya hai woh itna precious hai ki ki main uske badle mein kuch bhi nahi kar sakta tumhare liye. Nothing can ever compare to this." He said with deep sincerity.

She felt the strings of her heart pull at his this. Blinking hard, she placed her hands on his chest, "Precious tum ho."

Dr Amrita knocked at the open door, giving a teasing smile when they parted, "Mom and dad are happy?"

Sameer looked at her gratefully, "Thank you. Thank you so much doctor."

She walked in after patting his shoulder, "Congratulation to both of you." Once she was seated, she explained how Naina had to take care of herself, the supplements she must take on regular basis and scheduled her next visit.

"Aur ab sincerely aana hai checkup ke liye." She stressed, "Kisi tarah ki carelessness nahi. This is most important." Her gaze softened, "Naina, agar kabhi bhi koi pain ya discomfort ho, any time of day or night, give me a call on my personal number. Maine tumhari file ke first page pe likh diya hai. Ghar pe bhi sabko yeh number de do." She paused for a while, "Tum dono samajhte ho ki iss case mein ek normal pregnancy se zyada care chahiye. Isliye kisi bhi issue ko ignore mat karna. Main tumhare liye har waqt available hun. So, take care of yourself, and the baby."

Neither of them was in a state to go to office. Throughout the drive back, Sameer was doing a happy dance in his mind, a huge grin plastered on his face. Though doctor's instructions had given them a momentary scare, he had a strong belief that this was a new beginning.

"Sameer, itna slow kyon drive kar rahe ho? Ghar jaane ki jaldi nahi hai kya?" Naina asked when she noticed him drive at the speed of forty even on an empty road.

He glanced at her, his eyes flickering down to her tummy, "Mere baby aur uski mumma ko safe rakhna hai na."

She gazed at him fondly. At times she wondered how she had turned so lucky. Did she really deserve him? Was she good enough for him? He had won her heart despite all her scruples and resistance, had accepted her completely, without judging her for all that she had been through. He hadn't once shown any resentment for her inability. Now that she could see how exhilarated he was with the news, she could fathom what a huge decision it must have been for him.

The car came to a stop, pulling her out of the thoughts. He had just reached for the door handle when she called out, "Sameer."

He looked back.

"I love you."

He placed a hand on his heart, dramatically falling back, "Uff, kitne time baad sune yeh words. Kaan taras gaye the inke liye."

"Arey, roz toh bolti hun." She chuckled at his theatrics.

"Kal shaam se nahi bola." He winked, "Mere liye barah ghante bohot zyada hain."

Her laugh was hearty, "Buddhu."

His leaned ahead, his eyes intense, "Main I love you too nahi bolunga. Because I don't love you two, three or any number. I love you infinite."

Her face radiated with the warmth of his love.

They went straight to Preeti's room, where Vishakha and Deepika were fussing over the baby who was wide awake. Preeti was the first to notice them, "Naina, tum log office se itni jaldi aa gaye? All well?"

Other two looked up with inquisitive eyes.

Sameer took long strides to reach his mom, and bent down to hug her, "Mummy, aapka intuition sahi tha... Naina ke liye."

She kept looking at him, perplexed.

He grinned, "Hum abhi doctor ke paas se aa rahe hain. It's confirmed."

A delighted gasp left Vishakha mouth as she hurriedly came around the bed and engulfed Naina in a motherly hug, "I'm so happy beta. So happy. Congratulations."

Preeti clapped twice, drawing everyone's attention, "Koi batayega yeh kya ho raha hai?"

Vishakha, wiping her damp eyes, smiled widely, "Main phir se dadi banne wali hun. Naina's pregnant."

"Wowww!" Deepika shrieked, running to hug her bhabhi, "Chotu ke liye partner aane wala hai. This is awesome."

Sameer was quick to correct her, "Aane wala nahi aane wali hai. Mujhe princess chahiye."

Preeti teased him, "Yeh koi online order nahi hai jo choice bata rahe ho."

Deepika laughed, "Haww bhai aap itne bade hokar bhi Ayush jaisi baatein karte ho."

Vishakha chided the girls, "Bas karo tum dono. Usko congratulate karne ki jagah taang kheench rahe ho."

Next moment, he was smothered in a group hug by all three. Standing away, Naina admired her family with a pleased smile.

After Preeti had wished Naina too, she was surprised to find Vishakha still teary eyed.

"Mummy, khushi mein itne saare aansu allowed hote hain kya? Aap toh tabse roti hi jaa rahi ho." She frowned, "Ya aap darr ke ro rahi ho ki do do bachhon ko kaise sambhalogi?"

Vishakha gave a loving pat on her cheek, "Pagal ladki. Bohot zyada khush hun isliye zyada aansu aa rahe hain. Aur do kya main toh chaar bhi sambhal sakti hun. Tum chaho toh Naina ke baad phir se number laga lena."

Preeti threw up her hands, horrified, "Na baba. Bas ek hi kaafi hai. Aur hamare chotu ke paas bada bhai toh hai hi. Ab ek chota bhai ya behen bhi aa jayenge."

It was a happy news for Preeti, but for Vishakha, it was a miracle, a blessing. Once she had accepted Naina with her past, she was a daughter for her. And today, seeing the glow of unbridled joy on her daughter's face, she was elated. Nanu was overwhelmed too, when he came to know.

Blessing both his children, he kissed their foreheads, "Jinke dil itne saaf aur masoom hote hain unke liye bhagwan bhi apna faisla badal deta hai. Main bohot khush hun aaj. Tum dono ki zindagi mein aise hi khushiyon ki barsaat hoti rahe, bas yehi chahta hun."

Sameer and Naina decided to tell Ayush when he came back from school.

In his room, Sameer made him sit on his lap and asked, "Ayush, tumhe big brother banna kaisa lag raha hai?"

He bobbed his head pleasantly, "Bohot nice lag raha hai. Pata hai baby meri finger pakad leta hai main jab bhi uske paas jaata hun. Usse pata hai main uska Ayush bhai hun."

After a thoughtful pause Sameer added, "Aur agar... ek aur baby ke Ayush bhai banoge toh kaisa lagega?"

His eyes widened, "Preeti maasi ka ek aur baby hai? Woh hospital mein bhool ke aa gayi thi kya?"

Naina placed a hand on her mouth to hide her chuckle. Sameer gulped down his, and spoke softly, "Preeti maasi ka baby nahi, mumma ka. Agar mumma bhi hospital se baby layengi toh aapko achha lagega?"

His face broke into a cheerful smile, "Meri mumma? Apne tummy wala baby layengi?"

Naina nodded when he looked at her expectantly.

"Yayyyyy." He hollered, "Phir toh mere paas two two babies ho jayenge. Jaise papa two two ke Sameer bhai hain main bhi two two ka Ayush bhai ban jaunga."

Naina palmed her face, muttering, "Ekdum buddhu. Bilkul apne papa jaisa."

Sameer leaned to the side, whispering in her ear, "Maine sunn liya."

Ayush put a hand on Sameer's cheek and turned his face towards himself, "Papa, ab mumma ka tummy bhi Preeti maasi aur Monty ki mumma jaise big ho jayega?"

Sameer waved his head, "Woh toh hoga hi. Lekin hum dono ko mumma ka khyal rakhna padega. Tum unpe jump mat karna."

Ayush looked at her belly, "Baby ko lag jayegi?"

He cupped his son's face, "Bohot chota hai na abhi. Jab bada ho jayega, tumhari tarah, toh jitna marzi khelna uske saath."

Ayush was extremely happy at the prospect of having another sibling.

In the evening, Vivek was overjoyed too, hearing the unexpected news.

Rohan jumped when he came to know, "Kya baat hai bhai. Yeh toh kamaal ho gaya. Kahan main jal raha tha jab Preeti ke nakhre uthane padte the aur soch raha tha aapki life kitni comfortable hai. Mujhe nahi pata tha meri baat ka result itni jaldi aa jayega."

Preeti glared at him, "Nakhre se tumhara kya matlab hai?"

He shrugged, "Woh jo tum time dekhe bina demand kar deti thi ki mujhe toh abhi kesar wali jalebi khani hai ya issi waqt khatti chatni wali alu tikki lao, bina soche ke subah ke che baje hain ya raat ke barah. Pata bhi hai main kaise sote hue dukanwale ko uthakar usse jalebi banwa ke laata tha."

Preeti scoffed, "Haan toh main kya apne liye demand karti thi? Woh toh tumhara beta maangta tha."

Vivek laughed, "Deepu toh badi ho gayi lekin Rohan ka bada hona mushkil hi lag raha hai. Aur uski company ka asar Preeti pe bhi aa gaya hai. Vishakha, ab iss ghar mein bade kam aur bachhe zyada honge."

Vishakha smiled, "Main toh hamesha se chahti thi mera ghar bachhon se bhara ho. Aakhir bhagwan ne meri sunn hi li."

Later in their room, Naina smiled as she brushed her hair after changing into the night suit. Entire family was thrilled. While elders were enamoured by it, younger ones were jumping in joy. Just the mention of arrival of a baby could make a family this jubilant.

She didn't know from where the comparison cropped up in her mind. How different everything was for her family when... But even then, after a point of time, she had started to look forward to having her baby in her arms. God, however, had different plans. Her eyes squeezed shut as the painful incident became vivid in her mind. Horrified, she opened her eyes. Why was she thinking about that time. It was gone.

Feeling restless, she went out to the terrace. But the trail of thoughts refused to leave her. Placing a hand on her belly, she felt a familiar attachment to the life that had started to grow inside of her. A tear slipped out of her eye. She wanted the baby last time too.

"No." her mind screamed, "This is nothing like last time. This baby is a reflection of love."

She nodded, convincing herself that this was a part of both of them so it would always be safe. There would be no danger waiting for her in future.

Admonishing herself for her negative thoughts, she earnestly tried to push down all apprehensions. She didn't want to dwell on mishaps of past, and miss out on the pleasures of present. It had been a tiresome effort to remain normal then, but now, she had a beautiful life. And she wanted to make every moment worthwhile. She didn't want to remain stuck.

Taking a deep breath, her eyes turned upwards. There was no moon tonight. She roamed her gaze all over the black cover. A night was supposed to be dark, but whenever one looked at the sky, all one could see was brightness... of millions of stars that together turned an otherwise black sky to a glittering one. Like a celebration.

A celebration of her happiness.

She smiled. Yes, this was her destiny.

Sameer found her on the terrace when he came out after a shower. He noticed the pain on her face. It took him no time to guess what she might be thinking. It was impossible to not be reminded of her previous experience. But he didn't want her to remain pensive.

Quietly walking upto her, he took the spot beside her, and looked up, "Kitne purane honge na yeh taare."

She did not say anything.

He continued, "Jaane kabse chup chaap sab kuch dekhte hain. Kisi ko hanste hue, kisi ko rote hue. Kisi ka dard baant te hain, kisi ki khushi ka hissa bante hain. Kabhi kabhi baadal inhe dhak lete hain. Lekin yeh phir aa jaate hain, issi tarah chamakte hue."

She slowly turned to face him. He turned too, and looked at her. The soft breeze was playing with her open hair, making a few strands fall on her cheeks. The light from a lamp in the garden fell on her face, making it look golden. Her brown eyes had turned a deeper shade, and he could see a streak of uncertainty in them.

His voice was softer, "Woh kaale baadal hat gaye Naina. Ab sab kuch saaf hai. Iss aasmaan ki tarah. Aaj yeh taare hamari khushi mein shaamil hone aaye hain. Aaj chaand nahi hai, jaise Diwali ki raat ko nahi hota. Poore saal ki sabse khoobsurat raat Diwali ki hoti hai. Dekho, aisa nahi lag raha ki yeh Diwali ki sajawat hai jo aasmaan ne hamare liye ki hai?"

She looked up with him. He was right. Just as she had discovered moments back, the sky glittered at them.

She shifted her gaze to him, "Ab tum mere saath ho... ab mera har din har raat aisi hi khoobsurat rahegi."

"Sach?" He held her hands.

She nodded.

His eyes remained fixated on her, and she was mesmerised. It appeared the night sky had shrunk to gather in his dark eyes... along with the sparkle of all stars.

Sameer was glad that she was able to shove aside her painful memories. He looked forward to the beautiful days ahead.

Coming one week was indeed beautiful. But the comfortable spell ended too soon, bringing the usual problems for Naina. Morning sickness gripped her almost daily, making her dread getting up. It was not all. Just about anytime of the day, anything could trigger her nausea, making her rush to the washroom. Another problem was fatigue. She felt completely drained. Sameer asked her to take leave till she was feeling better.

"Yeh toh sabke saath hota hai Sameer. Aise chutti leke ghar thodi baith jaate hain." She argued.

He was adamant, "Mujhe sabka nahi pata. Par meri Naina iss condition mein office ka tension nahi legi."

She frowned, "Toh kya sab kuch chod ke ghar baith jaun? Khud ka office hai iska matlab undue advantage lenge?"

He tried to explain in a gentle voice, "Sweetheart, iss waqt tumhe aaram ki zarurat hai. Tum jaanti ho na office mein sabko maternity leave poore nau mahine ki allowed hai. Jab employees le sakte hain toh tum kyon nahi."

Her eyes teared up, "Tum already mujhe kuch kaam nahi dete. Ghar pe sab rest karne ko bolte hain. Ayush ko Deepu padha deti hai. Mummy toh chotu ka kaam bhi nahi karne deti." The tears spilled down, "Pata hai main kitna useless feel karti hun. Lagta hai jaise meri kisi ko zarurat hi nahi rahi."

He sighed. It was her hormones speaking. Taking her face in his palms, he wiped her tears with his thumbs, "Tumhari zarurat sabko hai. Sabse zyada mujhe aur Ayush ko. Lekin Naina, iss waqt baby ki health ke liye tumhe zyada se zyada rest karna chahiye. Ek baar yeh nausea khatam ho gaya toh tum energetic feel karogi. Tab koi tumhe nahi rokega."

She blinked, "Pakka?"

He smiled, "Pakka."

With a deep breath, she went into his arms, resting her head on his chest, "Tum bohot achhe ho Sameer."

"Pata hai." He replied smugly, kissing the top of her head.

Her love of ice cream had not dwindled. Rather, it had grown. Sameer ensured that their freezer had each flavour that she liked, at all times. But her choices changed every few days. If one week she drooled over Butterscotch, next week she hated it, and demanded coffee caramel. Few days later, it was berries and nuts.

One night, he felt bereft of the warmth he was so used to, pulling him out of sleep. Seeing the bed empty, he rushed to the washroom, fearing another bout of nausea. But it was vacant too. In panic, he checked the time. It was two in the morning. After finding the terrace door locked, he ran out of the room... only to be greeted by silence. But there was a faint light coming from far end of the living room. Stealthily, he went down the stairs. Upon reaching the dining hall, what he saw made all his anxiety melt away.

Sitting cross legged on the floor, Naina was having ice cream directly from the tub, two more placed in front of her. Crossing his arms, he watched her quietly from a distance. With her mouth still full, she put back the tub in hand and picked another. First she kept looking at it, her lips moving slightly, making him wonder what she was doing. Then she dunked a finger in it and licked slowly. A wide smile crept up on her face. Taking the spoon, she eagerly gobbled a few mouthfuls. When she paused again, seemingly murmuring something, his curiosity peaked. He didn't want to scare her by suddenly going to her, so he switched on the lamp of dining hall. She looked up, and her eyes widened.

With a smile, he crouched beside her, "Tum ice cream kha rahi ho ya isse baatein kar rahi ho?"

She pursed her lips, "Ice cream se nahi baby se baat kar rahi hun. Usse puch rahi hun kaunsa flavour zyada pasand hai."

He placed a hand on her tummy, "Toh kya kaha baby ne?"

She shrugged, "Decide hi nahi kar paa raha. Isliye sab taste kar rahi hun."

He threw his head back and laughed.

She narrowed her eyes, "Isme hansne ki kya baat hai?"

He pulled her cheeks, "Iss waqt toh tum hi mujhe ek baby lag rahi ho. Hamari princess ayegi na toh bilkul tumhari tarah hogi."

She smiled dreamily, "Ayush bhi kitna khush hoga agar baby girl aayi toh."

He placed a finger under her chin to make her look up, "Baby boy hoga toh bhi hum utne hi khush honge."

She placed her arms on his shoulders, locking them behind his neck, "Phir mujhe teen teen boys ko sambhalna padega."

He eyed a small speck of melted ice cream at the corner of her mouth. Letting his hands wander on her waist, he mumbled, "Abhi toh iss ek ko hi sambhal lo. Isse bhi ice cream chahiye."

She did not waver her gaze from his face, "Toh kha lo. Yahin toh rakhi hai."

He clucked in negative, flicking his eyes at her lips, " Mujhe kahi aur ki zyada tempting lag rahi hai."

She closed her eyes slowly, welcoming his kiss. Few minutes later, Sameer gathered her in his arms and carried her to their room.

In the morning, when they came down for breakfast, they found Vishakha directing Ramdhari as he mopped the kitchen. Seeing them, she asked in a stern voice, "Ice cream bahar kisne chodi raat ko?"

Before Naina could own up, Sameer quickly offered, "Mummy, raat ko achanak Naina ko ice cream khane ka dil hua toh uske liye leke gaya tha. Jaldi mein wapas fridge mein rakhna bhool gaya shayad."

Vishakha pointed at the floor, "Lekin floor pe kyon chodi? Neeche the saare boxes. Woh bhi gire hue. Poora kitchen sticky ho gaya. Kabse Ramdhari safai kar raha hai."

Naina bit her lip, feeling guilty. She walked to the kitchen door, "Sorry Ramdhari bhaiya. meri wajah se aapka kaam badh gaya."

He immediately stood up, smiling widely, "Nahi nahi Naina bhabhi, humein koi pareshani nahi hai. Aap jab chahe ice cream khaiye. Aage aage bachhe bhi toh aise hi girayenge. Achha hai humein practice ho jayegi."

Sameer smirked, "Yeh toh Ramdhari ke liye training session ho gaya mummy. Aap aise hi gussa kar rahi hain."

Vishakha glared at him. His smile vanished, and he mumbled a 'sorry', making Naina stifle a smile.

Her eyes drifted to Naina. The change of expression was evident.

"Naina, aaj subah bhi nausea hua?" She asked in a gentle voice.

She smiled thankfully, "Nahi mummy. Aapne jo salty biscuit wala idea diya tha usse better lagta hai. Lekin din mein do teen baar ho hi jaata hai."

Vishakha pressed her arm, "Bas kuch hafte aur hoga phir almost khatam ho jayega. Shuru ke teen mahine rehta hi hai."

She was proved right. The frequency reduced greatly once the first trimester was over. But her mood swings worsened. Also the fear and depression. Dr Amrita had waved it off as normal anxiety when Sameer mentioned it on their previous visit. She had clearly told him that no anti depressant could be given to her. Some women faced such emotional turmoil during pregnancy and after child birth. There was no apparent reason. All they could do was try to keep a cheerful ambience around her and do things that made her happy.

Sameer had some inkling of her reasons though. He could only imagine her anguish because of past sufferings. She was nearing the time when she had suffered a miscarriage. She never said it, but he knew she was fighting a battle with herself. Her heart didn't want to think about it but her mind related every step to that ugly phase. This brought back the bad dreams. Though they were not as bad as her earlier nightmares, she would still wake up, drenched in sweat. He would gently put her back to sleep but it was killing him to see that she was unable to calm her mind.

If she was not sad, she would be agitated... over just about anything. Though there were spells of good mood, but it changed at such speed that he had started to miss his happy, smiling Naina. It terrified him that she was so scared all the time. The strength and optimism she always displayed was lost somewhere. It was like she was walking on eggshells. Every pain, every little discomfort pushed her panic button. Her beautiful smile was marred by the tears which seemed to be lurking at the corner of her eyes all the time.

"Naina, tum theek ho?" He asked one evening when he found her seated in bed, her eyes closed.

"Haan." She straightened, opening her eyes and letting a smile bloom on her lips.

He perched on the edge, taking her hand in his, "Achha laga." Bringing her knuckles to his lips, he placed a soft kiss, "Itne dino ke baad apni Maina ke chehre pe smile dekh ke."

Her lips curved a little more, "Mujhe bhi achha laga, itne dino baad yeh naam sunke."

Shifting closer, Sameer cupped her cheek, "Tum hamesha se Maina ho... Meri Naina. Aur rahogi. I love you so much Naina."

He regretted his words instantly when her eyes filled with tears. Holding her face within his palms, he pleaded, "I'm sorry jaan. Please rona mat. Abhi toh tum normal thi."

Her damp eyes narrowed, "Normal thi matlab? Main waise normal nahi rehti kya?"

He opened his mouth, closing it again immediately as he realised whatever he said could be his doom.

"Bolo. Tumhe kya main pagal lagne lagi hun?" She poked his shoulder,

He leaned to join his forehead with hers, and whispered, "Haan... mere pyar mein. Jaise main hun... tumhare pyar mein pagal."

The frown on her face changed to a contented smile again, "Very much very much pagal."

With a relieved smile, Sameer moved back, "Aisi hi rehna."

She dipped her head, "Okay. Jo tum bolo."

"Jo main bolun?" He quirked up a brow.

She nodded.

"Toh aaj bahar chalein? Kahin bhi... jahan tumhara dil kare." He asked hopefully.

To his delight, she agreed.

The weather was pleasant since the onset of monsoon. When they reached India gate, the wind had become stronger than the soft breeze of whole day.

Sameer held her hand as they walked slowly on the side path, "Last year ki baarish yaad hai Naina. Tumne pakodo ko mujhse zyada importance di thi. Aur adrak wali chai ko bhi."

She raised her brows, "Tum unse bhi jal gaye the kya?"

He twisted his mouth, giving a sad wave to his head, "Mere alava tum kisi ko bhi time dogi toh jealousy hogi hi na."

She laughed, "Sameer, tumhara kya karun main. Kal ko tum baby se bhi jaloge kya?"

He stopped, turning to look at her, "Baby se kaise jealous ho sakta hun Naina. Woh toh mera hi hissa hai. Jab jab tum usse pyar karogi, woh pyar mere liye hi hoga."

She kept gazing at him.

He looked around, then whispered, "Abhi bhi pyar aa raha hai na mujhpe. Tumhari aankhon mein dikh raha hai."

She smiled, "Pyar toh aa raha hai lekin tumpe nahi," She pointed behind him, "Uss bhelpuri pe."

"Bhelpuri?" He grimaced, his bubble of romance bursting in no time as he realised she was looking behind him, not at him.

Naina tugged at his arm, "Chalo na Sameer. Mujhe bhelpuri khani hai. Bohot dil kar raha hai."

He did not budge, "Nahi Naina. Yeh healthy nahi hai. Tumhe bhelpuri ka mann hai toh main mummy ko phone kar deta hun. Woh banwa ke rakhengi jab tak hum ghar pohochenge."

"Nahi mujhe abhi chahiye." She said angrily, "Yeh jo itne saare log kha rahe hain unki health ke liye theek hai toh meri ke liye kyon nahi?"

Fearing that she would run across the road, he gripped her arm tighter, but kept his voice soft, "Naina tum pregnant ho. Baby ko koi harm na ho isliye humein risk nahi lena chahiye."

"Jaise mujhe toh pata hi nahi main pregnant hun. Sameer, tum har baat mein zid kyon karte ho? She retorted.

Forcing himself to stay calm, he wound an arm around her shoulder, "Achha chalo main tumhe Haldiram's leke chalta hun. Wahan jitni chaho bhelpuri kha lena."

"Nahi mujhe abhi khani hai. Ya toh tum mujhe khane do nahi toh main khud jaake banwa lungi." She lifted her chin defiantly.

Sameer eyed her helplessly, wondering how to get out of this situation without offending her when rain gods came to his rescue. As the drops came pelting down, along with all other vendors, bhelpuri stall was also dismantled in seconds and everyone rushed to seek refuge.

Their car was parked close by. Thankfully, Naina's mood changed when they entered Haldiram's. Sameer watched her as she relished two plates of bhelpuri.

After reaching home, however, she started to feel pukish after a while. Hurriedly, she ran to the washroom. With same urgency, Sameer followed her. He held her hair, gently caressing her back. When she had washed her face, he offered the towel. She gratefully accepted it and patted her face, completely exhausted. He lifted her and carried her to the bed.

"I'm sorry Sameer. Tumhari baat maan leni chahiye thi." She said in a choked voice.

He smoothened her hair from the forehead, smiling, "Maan toh li thi. Tumne street pe nahi khaya. Lekin lagta hai baby ko bhelpuri pasand nahi hai."

She gave him a weak smile, "Abse nahi khaungi."

He kissed her forehead, "Don't worry too much Naina. Doctor ne kaha tha na yeh sab toh hota hai pregnancy mein."

She closed her eyes. Last time, she didn't face so many problems... at least she didn't have much memories. Her initial months were gone in coma. And some more in her ignorance. By the time she came to know, and accepted the fact, it all ended.

She placed a hand on her belly protectively. This time, she was ready to endure anything for the sake of that little life inside her. Opening her eyes, she smiled at Sameer, who was watching her intently. He started to stroke her hair. Within minutes, she drifted off to sleep.

"Sameer!" Her panicked cry made him turn towards her sometime in the night.

Moving closer, he tried to wrap his arms around her, thinking of it to be another bad dream.

Her hand clutched his arm hard, "Sameer... hospital."

All sleep was out of his system. Springing up, he switched on the side lamp and looked at her. Naina was sweating profusely, her other hand over her stomach.

"Kya hua jaan?" He placed a hand on her forehead.

"Pain... pain ho raha hai. Aisa lag raha hai kuch... kuch twist ho raha hai. Sameer... please jaldi..." She muttered helplessly. Though she was trying to be brave, he could see the fear lurking in her eyes.

Without any delay, Sameer grabbed his phone, calling up Dr Amrita, then his mom... there was no time to go to her room to inform. Five minutes later, he was driving to the hospital with both women on back seat, Vishakha supporting Naina and assuring her that all will be fine.

About two hours had passed since Naina woke up with excruciating pain, and Sameer had been pacing outside the hospital room for more than an hour now.

Vishakha patted his arm, "Don't worry Sameer, sab theek hoga. Pregnancy mein pain hona koi abnormal ya alarming baat nahi hai."

He gulped down his fear, and looked at his mom, "Lekin Naina ko har pain ek hi baat ki yaad dilata hai mummy. Aapko pata hai na pehle bhi usse aise hi pain..."

Vishakha put a hand on his mouth, shaking her head, "Apne dil mein koi bura khyal mat la. Dekhna, baby ko kuch nahi hoga."

Sameer hugged her, fighting his tears. He prayed whatever she was saying would be true. They did not notice the doctor leaving the room and walking away to other side. Moments later, a nurse called him, "Aap hain na madam ke saath?" When he nodded, she waved at the door, "Aap jaake mil lijiye, lekin ek ek karke. Unko rest ki zarurat hai."

Vishakha nodded at Sameer to go in, then turned to the nurse, "Koi problem toh nahi hai na?"

"Scan aur test ho gaye hain. Doctor reports check karke abhi aapko bata dengi." She said in plain, professional voice and walked away, leaving Vishakha worried. She had consoled Sameer but somewhere inside, she was scared too. If pain was a normal phenomenon in pregnancy, usually all issues also began with pain only. She just hoped in Naina's case, it was former.

Naina was waiting for him. The moment Sameer entered, she smiled, relief written all over her face, "Baby theek hai na? Doctor ne kya kaha? Ab mujhe pain nahi ho raha. Operation theater mein nahi leke gaye, room mein hi rakha hai. Iska matlab sab theek hai. Hai na?"

He didn't have the heart to tell her that he knew nothing. A weak smile struggled on his face.

Her hands instinctively went to her tummy, "Main abse aur zyada khyal rakhungi."

He nodded, leaned and kissed her forehead, "Hum dono khyal rakhenge."

He wanted to be strong for her... to be her strength, her rock. He had not been good at dealing with loss last time... even if it was only a loss of hope. Now, it was much more than hope. He silently prayed it wasn't a loss this time. A sound of opening door made him straighten and look back.

Dr Amrita entered with some papers, "So, how are the would be parents feeling?"

A weight seemed to lift off Sameer's chest. He looked at her expectantly, "Naina... aur baby... theek hain na doctor?"

She smiled, "Dono theek hain."

A huge grin bloomed on Sameer's face. He turned and engulfed Naina in his arms, awashed with relief. She hugged him back.

"Aapke babies perfectly healthy hain."

Sameer and Naina took some time to understand, absorb and react. They turned, as if in slow motion.

"Babies?" They stared at her with similar dumbfounded expression.

Dr Amrita walked over to Naina and patted her cheek, "Yes... babies. Congratulation. You're carrying twins."

Her hand flew to her mouth as Naina forgot to blink. Sameer stood up with a jolt, but could not move after that. His eyes fixated on doctor, his jaw ready to hit the floor.

Doctor laughed looking at their aghast expressions, "Muh band kar lo Sameer. Makhhi na ghus jaaye."

She chuckled as he followed her order, shutting his mouth like a child.

"Jee haan. Naina twins expect kar rahi hai. Mujhe last checkup mein bhi doubt tha par maine bola nahi kyonki main poori tarah sure hona chati thi ki koi complication toh nahi hai. Lekin iss baar ki report bikul clear hai." She smiled warmly, "Do bachhe hain. Aur dono perfect healt mein hain. Koi problem nahi hai. Naina ki reports bhi normal hain. She is absolutely fit and healthy." She explained.

Naina was the first to recover, "Woh pain? Bohot sharp pain tha."

Dr Amrita nodded, "Gastric the. Shayad kuch aisa khaya jo tumhare system ko suit nahi kiya. Since tum pregnant ho, aur woh bhi twins ke saath, isliye tumhara digestion bohot sensitive ho gaya hai. Zaruri nahi jo baaki sab normally kha paaye woh tumhe bhi digest ho jaaye. Isliye abse har raat iski medicine bhi leni hogi."

The relief, mixed with this unexpected terrific news made Sameer go crazy. He just dashed to the doctor and hugged her.

Dr Amrita let out another laugh, "Okay beta. I know you are excited par apni wife ko bhi hug kar lo. She needs double the love now... double good news jo de rahi hai."

"Oh sorry doctor." He stepped back, holding his ear, "Mujhe... mujhe Naina ko hi hug karna tha. Pata nahi kaise aapko..." He scratched his head, looking from one to another.

Doctor rolled her eyes, "Mujhe pata hai kaise. Baap banne ki khushi mein maine bohot saare men ko bachha bante hue dekha hai." She winked at Naina, "Ab sambhalo apne sabse bade bachhe ko. Main discharge ke liye bol deti hun."

Hush, another long one. And late too. Kya karun, control hi nahi hota ☺️

Next update would be longer so need more days. Would post on either Sunday or Monday