PART~2

A Reality Check

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9.2K+ words

##

Mani.

Manik Malhotra, I said get up. I was yelled by the soft and lovely voice, I'm too used to get up from that voice every morning years back.

I opened my eyes in jerk, but the sharp lights blinded me, resulting to close my eyes again. I heard someone opening and closing doors.

Open your eyes slowly. I heard an unfamiliar male voice, there was disturbance around me, nothing was understandable to me. I had a whish of medicines. Was I in the hospital? Did I had a heart attack? There was fear inside me to face the world, which welcomes me to the world, where My Nandini and son won't be there. I don't want to open my eyes, I can't go through hell again, which the world served me.

I opened my teary eyes, slowly. I could figure out the person to be Doctor, surprising the unfamiliar male voice was Nandini's professor doctor. Shouldn't he have some grey hair? He looks like he was thirteen years ago.

Manik! He tried to take my attention, which he was successfully got.

Are you fine? I nodded my head with pain in my heart. I was too numb to speak anything.

You know you have been out for three days straight. Scaring daylights of your family. He looks concerned, wasn't he supposed to hate me for doing something to his pet student? Urgh, this is confusing. He looks cool and composed.

It doesn't matter. I just wanna sleep and never get up again. I mumbled myself, yet the way the doctor looked me annoyingly. This means he heard it too. I groaned internally.

You had a severe nervous breakdown three days back. I nodded my head aimlessly. After Nandini and Maan leaving I expected cardic attack. This nervous breakdown seems nothing to me.

And had a terrible panic attack with breathing problems and suffocation in sleep before you woke now. I looked at him in reflex. He appeared worried for me.

Is something bothering you? He held my shoulders tenderly passing me warmth. I kept silent.

Okay don't answer, whom do you want to meet now? He questioned me.

How about no one? I don't want to meet any fucking assholes. I make sure they root in hell, for making me feel shit in front of my son and Nandini. Making me a spinless man in people's eyes.

He started examining me and prescribing medicines according to it. He left the room, quietly. My eyes went to the ceiling, tears started flowing from my eyes, I picked my phone it had mine and Nandini's picture of our engagement. 

My baby. I caressed her picture with blurry eyes.

Mani. I lifted my head to see Nandini before me. 

Nandu. I meeked out as she ran to me and crashed to me hardly.

How could you? huh! Who'll do that? You scared me, do you know how much? She started hitting me mercilessly. The punches were solid and it did hurt me. of course, she is famous for her punches.

I'm sorry. I'm sorry for whatever I did to you and Maan. She immediately stopped hitting me.

Who is MAAN? Her face was deadpan completely. I scoffed at her, did she seriously forget her own son for whom she was ready to accept some spineless man into her life?

Nandini, stop kidding. Get Maan here, we need to take him to the doctor, don't you remember how he was choking himself with food at the airport. She blinked her eyes.

When did we go to the airport? And who is this Maan? And why should I take someone I don't to the doctor just because he was choking off with food. What's wrong with you?

Nandini our son, Maan. I repeated to her annoyingly, how can anyone on the earth forget their own son?

Son, Manik Malhotra you gotta kidding me, Seriously!! When was I even pregnant to begin with to have your child? It was reaching my nerves, now.

Get Maan, I know he hates me, But I promise, I'll win his heart, Baby. She was totally mad at me, maybe because of that, she wasn't ready to accept she had the son.

Manik, we had intercourse like four days back, how can I even get the son out of my womb just like that? It's a long process. Buddu. She was gritting her teeth. I was confused.

Four days back WE DID IT. Everything was capital, she blew air to her hairs, meaning she was fucking pissed off me. 

Yes. Four days back, you fu... I didn't let her complete her further.

Never. I ordered her sternly. She swatted her hairs behind in irritation.

What year are we? I aimlessly glanced to have a look at the calendar.

2020. She pulled out my phone to show the date and also in her watch. I cringed completely.

In what year you were dreaming? That stopped me, I looked up to her in bewildered, when I saw the year 2020 in both our phones, I even checked in my google assistant, what if she was lying me. I desperately want to believe her that I was dreaming but I feared what if this was the dream, and the dream in my mind was real.

2033. I answered her meekly, she sighed disappointedly.

You broke up with Fab5 in your dream, don't you? I nodded my head aimlessly as I held her hand in mine, she was here and everything was a dream, no a nightmare, the worst one. Thank god, I was not having a nightmare when I'm awake in real, I don't know what would've happened if it is real, but whatever I felt was so real.

Was it that bad? She started caressing my face, my tears started pouring out without mercy. She held me close in her arms.

It wasn't just bad. It was the worst.

I can't imagine you unloving me. I can never live that, Nandu. It felt so real. You walked out of my life with Maan. She held me tightly in her arms, I would miss this warmth so badly, I couldn't feel it in my dream. Nandini's void eyes and soul broke me infinity times, deeply.

Shush. I can never unlove you ever. She told my eyes, I cried out hysterically. So, badly. Maybe I never cried like this in my whole life. I couldn't imagine, what if the nightmare came true? I would never let that happen. Never.

Promise, you'll love me no matter what. However bad I'm. You should love me, Only me. Nandini nodded her head prettily. It hurt my heart when I saw her in the bride's dress, and I wasn't the groom. It hit me so hard that I almost felt my heart stopped beating.

I Promise, My fiance. She kissed my lips, hardly at the same time gently. I smiled brightly in the kiss.

I LOVE YOU, My Baby. Her giggle spread in my ward. Never. I never felt so happy to announce that to her. Today, I learned the real meaning of Love and Her. This was definitely needed me. I guess the nightmare gave me a reality check, a lesson I learned nowhere in this world.

Are you sure, we don't have any son? She rolled her eyes in annoyance.

You need a Doctor, Manik, Desperately for your head. Well, I never pissed someone so badly as her, six years, I don't know how she still is putting up with me, arrogant myself.

How about you become my head, doctor? I would love that. I teased her rubbing my running nose in long sleeves of mine, she made an eww face as she handover her hanky to me, I was pleased to it.

I'm a cardiologist if you have forgotten. Never, I repeat never use the wrong word to her specialization. She gets totally mad over it. Before I say something there was a knock on the door, I frowned looking at the closing door.

It must be your dad. He was so worried when you fainted. I dumbly watched her when she said to me. Then I remember how my father displeased with Nandini for all these years, how outwardly he said on my face, that he would never accept her as his daughter in law adding to it my nightmare didn't really help me at all. It gave me more goosebumps to think about it also. I should put him away from us if I want to live a happy life with Nandini.

I don't want to meet him. Truthfully, I don't want to keep any relationship with anyone who would think to separate Nandini and me. Even if it is dad, it was okay with me. It doesn't hurt me at all.

Manik, please don't do this. He loves so much.

Nandini, I learned one thing in these three days of sleep, I can live without anything except You. Losing anything wouldn't make me DEAD except you. I held her warmly to me in my arms, Basically, I almost had her in my lap, this feels surreal. I knew the worth of this feeling today, which six years of relationship with her didn't teach me. I now know, I would never take her feelings, trust, and love for granted. I would never.

Just talk with him. For me. I vigorously nodded my head. What if he had some plans? I don't believe him anymore.

I know, your father has utterly disappointed you. But when you fell unconscious right in front of him, he couldn't take that, he was shaken. He was crying so hard holding you in his arms, you are the only son of him. He was literally begging doctors for You. I saw it all in my eyes. He was so guilty. I never have seen him like that in these six years. He was desperate to hold you and say sorry. I wanted to believe her, I wanted. Then I hardly had it in me. That man only left bitterness in my life like Neyonika.

Did I collapse before choosing them over you? I countered her back, she cringed hearing that.

Wait!! What? Then something hit her, and she glared me hardly.

Were you going to choose them over me, Asshole? That hit me like thunder lightning, Fuck!! Fuck!!

No. No. It's just. Before I say further.

Fuck off, Asshole. She threw the middle figures at me as she walked out of my ward. God!!

What did I even do? Damn!! I picked my phone to call her, I couldn't definitely run behind her removing IV's. I'm too scared to even remove it. I hate needles, Period!!

Hey, are you fine, Buddy? I lifted my head to see Abhimanyu with Navya. I relaxed a bit, that's when it flashed me, Navya gave her baby to adoption, there was no Abeer in the present. I huffed badly.

Navya, fetch Nandini. She got mad at me. I dedicated the syllabus to her worriedly.

Of course, you must have done something, huge again. Navya cursed me literally in her mother tongue, Abhi was tongue-tied hearing that so was I. I never knew she would curse so badly, that I feel so uncomfortable to hear them.

I'll go. She left. I hope Nandini doesn't do something nasty with her temper.

Shall I remove it? I desperately nodded at Abhi, who volunteered to remove IVs, he was a doctor too.

Thank you. I should get going. I smiled with please, as I was ready to wear slippers.

Where to Mr? Abhi questioned me confidently.

To Nandini. I answered brightly, her name was enough to enlighten my whole life.

You silly, Get back to rest. I'm sure, she wouldn't leave you no matter what. She'll come back. He was so confident about it, then I was.

Are you sure?

She was pouring eyes out, whole three days, sitting by your side all time. She was scared to lose you, do you think she'll leave you for your words. If she really wanted, she would've left you long back. You both would've never had the future after what you did to her in the past. Even today, Abhi never forgave me for what I did with Nandini when I let her go for Dhruv, though she did forgive me, the same wasn't a case of Abhi. After all, she was his best friend. And he would never let anyone hurt her. It includes me too.

I'm sorry for the past. He straightly looked into my eyes.

What if you repeat the same? Because your father or friends, they don't need her in your life. I was truly ashamed to say, I was associated with them in a relationship, why didn't I see their true face? why didn't I?

I would never. I know what it meant losing her over anyone. She is too precious for me to lose for anyone. I learned it hardly. My confession softened him, he smiled finally.

Get well soon. I nodded my head with a goofy grin, I successfully won his heart.

Your father and friends are waiting, just outside. He added before moving towards the door.

Do me a favor, Abhimanyu. He stayed mum, taking a sign, I continued.

Say Them I Chose Nandini Murthy, My Fiance above Anyone. And I cut off every relationship with them. I'm no more part of Malhotra's or Fab5. I was loud enough to reach five shadows near my door. They all crumbled down to the floor, immediately.

Please, close the door before you leave. He smiled nervously looking to both sides. As he closed the door, making me sigh in relief. 

I thought my heart would hurt badly, but such things didn't even happen with me. I was fine, in fact, I felt lightened, I didn't have any responsibilities of heartless brats anymore. I didn't have to be conscious of what others think about me. What would hurt others? How should I make them accept My Baby? I felt something lessened in my heart which ultimately gave me peace.

They were toxic in my life, who burdened me and made me guilty of being happy when they weren't happy for whatever they had. It was better this way.

##

Manik, will you be okay, right? Nandini asked me the same infinity times as she dropped me in her Honda Activa 6G to my destination. 

I'll be, My baby. You know how good cook, I'm. I lifted my collar in pride, she giggled. 

Yes, I know. But you don't have a proper degree or diploma or even work experience, how are you going to be a chef? She questioned me seriously, I nervously ruffled my head. She was really not helping.

Nandini, let me try this. I always wanted to do this. You know, right? I was desperate, I always dreamt to be a chef, In fact, my dream became a passion, when Nandini started savoring my food, it was more like, I didn't love anything more than this, not even Music. The bright smile adoring Nandini's face made me so happy than cheers of fans for my Music. 

Manik, you were born with a gold spoon. You were born to rule the Malhotra Industries. Not to become a chef at a three-star hotel. I definitely understood her, basically, it was difficult to leave the luxuries which I was used to. Living in a rented room where I had to share my space with a roommate is something I never thought of myself. Yes, it was rude to admit, I missed being Malhotra, The Great Manik Malhotra who was so used to luxuries. But it was fine with me, as long as I had Nandini, in my life. I can go through this, with ease.

Nandini, trust me. I know I come from a rich background, where I was served everything with one blink of an eye, Now, I left everything behind. But I'm not regretting any of it. I also know, I don't have any qualifications to become a chef. I sighed when she held my hands in an assuring way.

This time, I wanted to follow my heart, Nandini. I want to see what will I become If I chose my heart over my mind. I want to say where it takes Us. I professed her, honestly.

It may sound absurd to everyone to leave everything I had. But I wanted to live myself Nandini, just like you. I wanted to live my passion. I did Music because of Fab5, they were best at it, However, I'm not a big fan of Music. Something not everyone understood this. Music surely an escape but Cooking food was my peace.

I trust you Manik. Take care of yourself. Hmm. I nodded my head as she drove off not before giving all-the-best-kiss. Man, I'm just gone.

I walked to the new destination with head high, hoping to get the best.

##

Nandini, I'll pay. I tried my level best to convince her but she didn't give two hoots as she paid fees for my diploma in Food & Beverages Services. 

Manik, let me do it, this one time, please. She pleaded cutely I let her do as I waited for her outside the office, so once she completes formalities we could leave.

Finally, I got selected for a chef job without qualifications. Though it's quite hard to follow up professionally the job, Somehow, my colleagues helped me out without making awkward to me, in fact, they were quite encouraging. To say they don't know who Manik Malhotra was a huge plus for me. They all are elderly people, I'm the youngest bud in that chef staff. I being inside the kitchen all time helped me, greatly. I wasn't exposed to the outer world.

Nandini had insisted I join the diploma classes in morning as my work is in the evening. I could actually learn and do my job simultaneously. She never ones made me feel, I was dependent on her for everything, emotionally, mentally & financially. She was looking after me like I was her child. Never ones my parents made me feel this. I was just a deal to them. I did something great in my past, resulting in me getting Nandini in this life. 

I looked around the college. It wasn't that huge like Space yet it wasn't bad at all. It was a prestigious college in Mumbai. I saw many youngsters' recognizing, I passed a smile to some who was grinning at me, widely. Crazy fans.

Chale, Nandini walked proudly, from her eyes I could say she noticed how everyone looking at me in awe.

Whether you declare your end in Music Industry, Music won't leave your side, Manik. Music stays within you. She never fails to amuse me, she knows me better than any. 

I know. I replied to her back softly, as she passed me documents, which I need to carry tomorrow, as my classes start tomorrow.

We need to collect our mark sheets from Space. I agreed as I started her activa by myself. Never, Never in life, I learned the two-wheeler vehicles because I was scared I would fall out, and I lack in balancing myself, it took so much patience in Nandini to teach me, I being Hulk didn't even help the tiny lady, at all. It was a total worth recording scene. I basically recorded it on my phone with the help of my roommate, Shree.  

You won't drop us or my activa on road, right? Nandini questioned seriously, I chuckled reminiscing. I don't how many times, I had hit her new activa to the road or even the street lights. Obviously, I made sure I wasn't hurt and even Nandini. Thank god, somehow with the help of Shree, I got a good hold of the vehicle. 

I don't this time, My baby. C'mon hop-in. She with fearful eyes sat behind me, chanting her Aiyyappa's name. I laughed at her as I rode us to Space. 

Nandu, we reached. Once I parked the vehicle in her regular place.

You sure na? Her doubtfulness towards my driving skills is something can irritate me, yet this was amusing me. She had grown more adorably in one month, So cute.

Yes, Baby. Come let's move in. I held her stiffly as I walked us to the office. Nandini stood in the office line before. There was a line to collect the mark sheet. I was finally an MBA graduate holding the gold medals for the same.

We received our respective mark sheet. Nandini was happy holding my sheets. Her internship will end in the next five months, later she can join her residency in any hospital, finally. I'm so proud of her.

Manik, you got so many gold medals, she gleed as we collected them too as we both didn't attend the convocation. I smiled looking at them and her. It was like, I bring gold medals to her every time. She has a collection of medals from six years already in her room. It inspired me more when she fondly display it in her showcase, in her flat which shares with Navya. She says, my achievement makes not to give up medicine. Not true, she is a bright student in our college, everyone agrees with it.

I'm going to put it in the showcase. Totally not in this land.

Sure, My lady. As we walked out Space to celebrate our victory.

##

Bye, uncle. I bid bye to my mates as I walked out of the kitchen, it was tiring day. I needed a night of sleep, a proper one.

Bye, beta. I left before informing the manager, who patted my shoulders in admiration. I left the hotel. 

Before I move towards the main road, I saw activa stopping right next to me, with the color and model, I could definitely say who it was.

Nandu, twelve in the night, are you crazy? She pouted adorably holding the vehicle, then I noticed her eyes were swollen, I gulped in worry, she didn't say a word, so I sat behind her taking the helmet. She drove us to her flat. I scowled, I don't want to hear one cruse from Navya, she literally hates sharing her flat with me.

Navya left for Pune. I relaxed a bit. I don't have to face Madhubala on a tiring night.

I freshened up quickly, Nandini served both of us food, I just ate without a word, Nandini doesn't like when someone posters her when she cried. No one should question it. It was her space.

Once we were done with food. I sat before their TV, there was Netflix streaming on it, I just sat beside her quietly, when she herself lean to me on my chest. I caressed her hair. She forwarded an envelope to me. I collected it from her, plainly. 

I opened the envelope to see an appointment letter from the hospital, which was in Bangalore. It was her dream to work with this hospital. 

Congratulations, My Baby. I kissed her cheeks hardly making her pout cutely. She was adorable.

Manik, She swatted my left hand, making me chuckle.

You're happy? I'm going to Bangalore in two months, aren't you sad about it? Now, I know the reason of her swollen eyes.

Of course not. Now, I can have my freedom, I kept my leg on my thighs in attitude. All I received was punches. 

You scoundrel. I'll kill you. I won't accept this appointment, I make sure you live in hell by my side always. Later was a nice massage on my body, meaning her punches the whole night. Well, I didn't like to mention a pleasure full night later. It's a private matter. Shush!!

##

Manik!! She palmed her mouth in shock, I giggled at her reaction. As I settled just beside her.

Did you thought, I'll let you go alone. Never, My Baby. I'll always beside you wherever you go. She had happy tears after two months of sulking. It took everything in Navya, Abhimanyu, and me to make her agree to take this appointment. That followed with Nandini's cribbing and angry pout when she learned she needs to live there alone without me. Though her family lives there. She wasn't happy to accept the offer. Somehow, I pushed her to take this up, her amms and brother helped more with blackmail. Though they aren't big fans of mine, we are bearable with each other for Nandini's sake. And Nandini's amms wasn't that cruel in real as in my nightmare, thank god.

Thank you. She engulfed me in a bear hug, I gave in happily. As the plane took off we both settled in our seats comfortably.

What about your diploma and job? Finally, she asked me. I pulled out two envelops from my backpack.

You completed your diploma, already. I nodded my head. It was already seven months, I finally had a diploma.

You never said to me, idiot. She hit me, I took it. That woman of mine loves to torture me with her solid punches.

Last month I completed my course. I gave her another, it was an appointment letter in a prestigious hotel in Bangalore.

You got the job. If she wasn't held by the seatbelt, I'm damn sure, she was going to do the dance of her style. Meaning the Annamman step without tammate, very famous in Karnataka, especially in Bangalore.

I was selected on the campus. I proudly announced at her. I had different locations for the workplace, but somehow convinced the management to give me a job in the Bangalore branch, they agreed thankfully. It wasn't difficult as I thought it to be.

I'm happy. She cuddled in my arms, as I saw outside the plane, what if never chose her?? Will I ever be happy? Never. I would have never been happy. Yes, it was difficult to manage my things, when I had people to do the same back then. Nonetheless, I was happy to start from scratch, where I didn't have to use my surname. It was finding New me, which I didn't know, it existed. Empty pockets surely will teach a lesson. I learned it well.

Nandini made me Independent, gave me the freedom, care, affection, and love, which none ever gave me. It was absolute surreal to live like this, then living dead with all luxuries. I was never this happy in my life. Maybe, I don't have great money in my account today. Then again I was never this content in my life.

I still remember how seven months back, I canceled the contract between Fab4 & I. It was ten years contract which was drafted by me, The contract still had one year, resulting in me paying heavy compensation for the same. I don't meet them personally, I just transferred the amount to their account legally which I earned from the concerts. Goodness, the bank balance I had was sufficient to pay them. Resulting no amount in my bank balance, I had left everything behind, it was Nandini who made me settle in PG paying the amount for me until I got the salary for my job. Now, I was standing my own legs, with head high because of her.

##

Nandini cut it na. I cribbed at her impatiently so where people behind me. Nandini smiled at me, kissed my cheeks.

Congratulations to you, Manik. She cut the ribbon looking at me in affectionately. I had tears in my eyes, seeing my first restaurant. It's been three years since I came to Bangalore with Nandini. Things were rough to me due to the communication problem in the new locality altogether. Somehow Rishab and Amms helped me learning Kannada. I actually bonded with them well enough to say, I'm also their family. I'm part of their family. They accepted me, completely as Manik not for Nandini but for who I'm. No achievement gave me so much satisfaction than this. 

Thank you. I kissed her tenderly on her forehead. My friends clapped and hooted for us. Yes, I earned truthful friends in these years. Navya, Abhimanyu, and Shree with Rishab. 

Everyone explored the new restaurant I built with my sweat. It was worth for Nandini's adoration and trust on me. She was in glee with ambiance. It was a homely and lively place. Which makes you feel home resulting in making comfortable, easily. I added a co-working space too for more earnings on the second floor. It also consisted of a library for book lovers in the cafe upstairs. 

It's freaking awesome. Shree hugged me tightly, Don't take him wrong, he is clingy yet sweet fellow, we are still in contact of each other, Nandini helped me to hold back the people who were there in our difficult times. And Shree had a special place next to Nandini. He had been there for me in a rough phase, though he was aware of I being The Manik Malhotra, he never made it a big issue or said it aloud to the people around us, he accepted me as just Manik. In times, he even took me to food outside, when PG food isn't edible, those times, I wouldn't have money. He never minded paying me too. I had savored street food with him at midnight. I had long night talks with him, which I never had with Fab5 also. To say we never had liquor or partied the whole night is also shocking to me. With Shree, it was always about learning new things. Finding happiness talking sense to non-sense while having by2Coffee.

Shree comes from a middle-class family from Bangalore. His parents are teachers in the government school, he is basically an IT employee in Malhotra Industries (Mumbai), I never knew he was working under me until I saw his ID one day, mistakenly. When I countered him back, he told me, he was just working below my special team, I was stunned to learn further when he said, I was an inspiration to him. He was really fond of me so joined Malhotra Industries to work under him, he was almost successful in it. He was promoted to my special team before he works under me, I resigned from my post. He was deeply disappointed when he couldn't work with him. Until he met me as his roommate.  When I confronted him not saying the same, he said, he wanted me to be comfortable with him. Which I was actually, maybe if I knew him who he was, I would've never bonded this well with him, this was way better actually to me. 

I know. Enjoy the food. I showed him the way to buffet, he left as gossiped with Rishab about food and desserts. I relaxed seeing my people happy. I sat a little far, watched food fight with Navya and Abhi. I smiled at them. I sometimes missed Fab4 in happy times. If they would've been here things would've changed. Despite this, wasn't really bad without them. It was perfect.

Fab4 left the music the day, I day the canceled the deal with them. Now they are leading life from scratch like me. Finding their own life with a new career.

Navya is now the wife of Cabir Dhawan, who is a famous RJ in Mumbai. They had a love marriage last year with the blessing of elders, I didn't attend the wedding but Nandini did. She also made me aware of Alya, opening a Fashion brand with Mukti. Dhruv is has opened Dance academy, It was good to know they achieved everything and created their own name in respective fields.

Abhimanyu and Mukti are getting married in the coming year along with Dhruvlya. I was really happy for them. Abhi says Mukti has changed drastically, she even opened orphanage and NGO with My dad. And about my dad, I get to hear from the news, him donating his 90% of income to rural development. I was really proud to hear that. Though I know their progress, I kept them away from my life. Something in me always stopped to trust them.

What's up Manik? I lifted my head to see Amms carrying two plates in her hand, I took them gently from her. She smiled at me, as she settled next to me.

Now tell me, when are you going to marry, Nandini? She asked me teasingly. I shied away.

Look, guys the Manik Malhotra blushing. Shree hooted while I saw Navya recording it on her phone. Man, that was embarrassing. I looked at Nandini, she wasn't here, of course, they wouldn't have a bark in her presence.

Whenever do you say? I'll marry her. I answered back, they hooted in happiness. Rishab hugged me tightly followed by others. Screaming god knows what. I was happy. I was really.

##

Dad!! I being called again, I wailed looking at Nandini, who all did was laugh at me. This is going too much. This boy should be given a lesson. I walked straight to open the door, once I made sure my wife was dressed appropriately.

What's it Maan? I questioned him totally pissed off, he smiled brightly as he threw his hand, meaning to pick him up. I did, there is no way, he would let me go if I don't fulfill his wishes.

I'm hungry. There. There it goes. I groaned terribly. All the mood to make sister for him to play went in the bin, again. Like seriously elven years of born of Maan, we are still trying to make one more baby and he isn't letting it happen. 

What do you want? I looked at Nandini, she bid sleepy bye and covered herself to jump into sleep. Of course, she knows this would happen and also warned me before I start another round, what was even thinking when I encouraged for her second round. With a son like Maan, I assure you will die in sexual frustration one day. 

Curd rice would do. I carried him to our majestic kitchen, which welcomed us royally. I settled him on the counter as I started cooking rice, will Maan switched on the TV to time pass. I look at him today, he looks the same as my nightmare. The only difference is he loves me so much than anything in this world unlike in my nightmare. Maan & I have strong connections which Nandini and he doesn't have. There is something weird about us, I can read his mind without looking at him or without him saying. I know what he needs and whatnot. I might pamper like a brat, however, I can't say the same to Nandini. She is a strict parent. Maan even calls her Hitler.

Here you go. I passed him the bowl of curd rice, he had it in love. I kept looking at him in awe. With Maan coming in our life many things changed in our life. Before the first year of the anniversary, we had Maan. Nandini always teased me saying that our child would be a girl, I didn't agree with her till the end. It was hilarious to say, Maan and Nandini kinda had fire and water relationships. It always fun for me to see them fighting like cats and dogs at home. My half-life went into making peace between them. The home we built together was merrier with their banter. It felt HOME.

Maan, eat slowly otherwise you'll choke off. He agreed with a full mouth. I caressed his hair, affectionately. Kept looking at him.

What were both doing in your room? He was a curious cat, that would always put us in trouble or embarrassment. Yet, he was innocent. Too innocent, I may add.

Adult things. I answered him.

Oh! You continue I won't disturb you tonight. He flew off from there before I scold him for the same. And the next day, I don't even remember to scold him, this is going on from years together. Nandini will scold me tomorrow also for the same. Urgh!

My phone started ringing, I cringed to look at Cabir's number. I received the call not wanting to cut it.

What it is now, Cabir? I rubbed my nape as I climbed the steps.

Yaar, Manik. How do we prepare, Dhokla? Navya wants to have them. I sighed, not again. Cabir is going to be the father the third time and here I'm struggling to make my wife pregnant again. Just great.

Cabir,  I was irritated, but somehow told him the procedure tagging the recipe from my channel in youtube. 

Chal, bye. He kept phone just like that, I cursed my fate. No thank you, he still hasn't learned any manners.

I walked to our room to see Nandini sleeping peacefully not before tucking covers on Maan in his room. I sighed tiredly as I cuddled to Nandini.

What did he ask today? she questioned me in the sleepy face.

Curd rice. She hmm and slept peacefully. I smiled at her as I kissed her forehead. While I kept looking at her, her presence gave me immense peace which nothing gave me. 

I don't know whether that nightmare would've come true or not. But this moment I might have missed if I didn't choose what my heart wanted. This feels euphoria.

However, I'm not sure, I would've got Nandini if I chose Fab4. Yet, I was sure someday, I would get Fab4 if I chose Nandini. Somewhere deep down, I knew Nandini will get them to me, and she did, without me asking her.

I still remember how Nandini invited Fab4 and my father to our wedding. I was completely startled to see them that day. Nandini told me, she expected me to burst on her and them or create a scene on our wedding rituals, I didn't do that, I was okay with their presence, not that I wanted them in my wedding. I wanted to accept everything Nandini gave me, I wanted to respect her ideas and try, I wouldn't defame her any decision she takes behalf of me. I was normal, I didn't initiate more talks with them. Rather I spent most of the time ragging Shree, who was by my side whole time. Our wedding was merrier with lots of teasing, love & happiness. It was a simple wedding I ever imagined to happen in my life. Then again, I bet nothing gave me so much of happiness than knotting a tie with her. She looked Divine that day is all I remember when she become Mrs. Manik.

Nandini & I settled ourselves completely in Bangalore. My restaurant was hit in the next years with Maan already in our life. My wife was focused on her career, so was I, Maan was grown under Amms guidance and love when we were in work. Or sometimes, I took him to Restuarant. He was the apple of my staff, they loved and pampered him a lot. 

When he was five, Amms passed away, it was really difficult to handle everyone. Especially Maan, who was always around Amms, he cried out days together sitting her bed. It took a lot of time to recover from our loss but somehow we moved on keeping her in our heart. Later, we shifted back to Mumbai, once Rishab was transferred to Chandigarh from his work. He is an IPS officer.

Coming to Nandini, she was known, Cardiologist in India, she had grown tremendously in her field, made us very proud of her. If any patient is critical, she is the one called from all over the country. Besides, she started her own hospital for the people who couldn't afford hefty prices for their treatments. In conclusion, she was happy and content of what she was doing so was I for her. 

Well for Fab4, I still kept them away, but the same didn't happen with Maan and Kavya. Kavya is the daughter of Cabir and Navya, fortunately, or unfortunately, it gave more room fab4 to enter our lives again. Nevertheless, I kept my guard up around them. Kept Maan and Nandini more protective. I never entertained them like before. I had a normal chat when they visited us. My father started visiting us often, to more my luck, note the sarcasm, Nandini, and Maan bonded with my father real soon. They even visit him in Malhotra Mansion. I neither didn't say a word to them nor they pestered me to do something which my heart wasn't happy about. 

Things changed I started my restaurant in Mumbai too, as years passed I have a good number of branches of my restaurant in almost all of the states in India. Today, I'm aiming to build chains of hotels in India. Furthermore, I'm almost there, in the coming a few days my hotel will be inaugurated and opened for the business. It was like my dream came true. I would have not known taste of success if I didn't struggle in the starting days of my restaurant. It wasn't cakewalk trust me on that but with Nandini, everything was fine & best. She was my lucky charm, made me pass all the storms being with me.

//

That reminds me, how fab4 earned my respect along with my dad. 

It was just few days we finally settled in Mumbai with Shree and family. It was Maan's birthday, we always celebrated his birthday in orphanage, it is something we learned from amms, I often contributed donations in Maan & Nandini's name. That's how I found out an orphanage with the help of Shree. We decided to celebrate it there. My wife & son brought the whole food, stationery, gaming, clothing & gifts department to our new mansion with Shree's wife, Sanch.

We took all of them took it to the well-built orphanage, I was actually amused with its infrastructure and modern technologies used in that place, Nandini case wasn't different. Somehow coming out of amazement and surprise, We distributed things we brought among the kids. Maan was so happy in showering things on them. He loves to be with people around always, he is a loud extrovert. Especially, if they're his age, you can't get hold of him. And there is no one in the world who could contain themselves around him, he was Charmer. And everyone loved to be around him, he is way down to earth very funny, most lively and chirpy. In another word, the chatterbox.

Later, Nandini & I moved to make donations in the office that's when I got to know, that orphanage was built by Mukti by the compensation I gave to them. In fact, all the Fab4 have contributed along with my dad every year. I was dumbfounded to learn something like this about them. I never expected them to change to this extent. They never cared for anyone if not them in the past, seeing such changeover in their attitude, was shocking but in a good way.

Now, things are good between us, yes, still my closest friend in Shree alone. He knows everything about me and none could take his place in my heart. Somehow, Fab4 also was part of my family. Our children were great friends. It is what I could conclude.

Perhaps, if I encouraged them by choosing them over Nandini, I would've chosen the wrong future and attitude for them also. I always listened, how Nandini scolded Maan when he did wrong or lied to us, she gave him punishment so that he doesn't repeat or go in the wrong direction, next time. She chose to be strict so that, she could direct him towards the right destination even by giving hard punishment. And she is right, I never saw Maan doing that mistake again. He never does anything which might not be liked by Nandini. He knows how to behave with everyone. And he makes sure, he never disappoints his mother in that matter. He is just namesake Prince of Daddy but he does everything which his mother needs him to do. He is the dotted son of hers'.

The same thing was needed to Fab4, a punishment to learn where they were wrong. They would've grown more worst with my encouragement. I had already spoiled them enough without teaching them my value or anyone's and that turned them toxic. If they did mistake it was in my hands to bring them back to track as Nandini did to Maan, I failed to do that, I should have killed their bad deeds in the seeds itself. I let them spread their venomous, without knowing it would harm me too, maybe my silence was taken as reassuring for them. It was all in my hands, it was me who spoiled them.

When I left their side, it was then everything changed for them. They didn't have someone to cover them up. There was no one who could shelter them protectively. There was no one to love them even after what they did. They collapsed when they didn't have me by their sides. Somehow, they didn't choose the wrong direction again, it is my relief. They grew and also let me grew on my grounds too. I'm happy, I didn't choose their destruction in my own hands. This was better, 

Cabir found his Navya, his Madhubala.

Mukti found her Abhimanyu, her personal Doctor.

Alya found her Dhruv, her dance master.

It was good this way. Today, they have everything, everything to be happy about. I'm really happy for them.

With a sigh, I cuddled more into Nandini in sleep.

##

I entered home, after supervising the hotel staff. It was actually a tiring day. I plopped on the couch after giving my bag to the butler, who in return gave me a glass of water. I sighed tiredly, I loosened my tie and gulped the water hurriedly for my patchy throat,

You, fatty!! He didn't say that again. Aiyyo!!

Manik!! Nandini screamed at me loudly, I flinched by her tone as she climbed downstairs, Maan cleanly landed to the living room, as he slid on the railing of steps.  

He called me FATTY, again. Never. I repeat never say that to her, even if its truth, never say that on her face. I wish I had that guts of Maan to say that aloud. I wish.

Maan, I warned not to tease her. I sternly stated to him.

Whose even teasing? I'm telling Truth only. He is the grandson of King Harshichandra, can't he once shut his mouth. All-time he does is tease the hell out of Nandini, Summer holidays are getting Nandini's nerves, if it is in her hand, she would never grant summer holidays for school students. At least for Maan.

Manik, he is saying, I'm fat. Nandini walked slowly holding her six-month tummy. Yeah, finally I made her pregnant with great difficulty. Thanks for Maan's school trip. I was never fond of going to school trips until I sent him to one. Well, he had his share of joy with his school mates while we had our own, by happily staying alone in our room. It was the best romantic holiday we ever had after our honeymoon in Swiss, I may add. *Romantic Sigh*

C'mon, My baby, don't listen to him. He talks absurd always. You aren't fat you are just pregnant. Once we have the baby you'll be back in shape. It is all I could recite for her.

Yeah. In shape. He gestures a fat figure by widening his arms, mocking her back. God! help me with him.

You Brat!! Maan!! flying slipper landed straight to his stomach, which he didn't see come, now don't ask me whose slipper it was, of course mine, I readily gave her. 

Ouch!! I'll complain about you under child abuse. His dramas aren't new. He should start being creative, Nandini and my ears will fall out hearing the same for years, now.

Le phone kar. Nandini thrust her phone to him confidently, he gulped hardly, as he ran out our home after throwing her phone on the coffee table, Obviously to Shree's home. He knows how to get escaped from Nandini & me.

He is too much. I'm telling you already. Maybe I never annoyed her as Maan does. One small thing is enough for Nandini to explode.

Come sit here. Once she confirmed our dinner preparation, she settled beside me.

You stink, Manik. She threw akimbo face at me, as I smelled myself by lifting my arms, yes, I smell bad, but it wasn't that bad as she pointed on my face. Dude, I work hard, so I do sweat, is it wrong?

You need a bath. She pushed me away from the couch as she fanned herself fresh air, seriously.

I walked downstairs, once I was cleaned and smelled good enough for my wife. I saw Maan & Nandini already fighting over the last slice of pizza. All I did was pick up the last slice feeding myself.

I guess I didn't have any pizza you ordered from my card. I savored making both of them baffle at me. They counter-attacked at me, I laughed endlessly with them, while he and she were in one team, only Food can make them partners, and nothing could do.

You jerk. Give me my pizza. Nandini pulled my hair as I gulped the last bite of it, and faked burp. Maan was horrified seeing Nandini and me fighting. We do fight, sorry we fight a lot. However, in front of Maan, we played a good parent role, so that he doesn't get messed with our fights. Though we both have a different perspective, in the end, we are each other side, and we don't drag our fights harshly too.

Not chance, My Baby. In fact, I'm going to order chicken pizza, at dinner. I licked my tongue over my lips, deliciously. And they threw eww face, they are pure veg babies. They hate the smell of meat.

You aren't going to do that, Manik/dad. They warned me; all I did was pick my phone to place my order, in return I got was a massage for the night. Chicken pizza can be only dreamt with veg people. Sighing deeply.

##

Nandini. I called her out, she hmm in return. I pulled her to face me, gently.

What's it Manik? I'm sleepy. She cuddled to my chest, I placed a tender kiss on her hairs and I caressed her too chubby cheeks. Maan was right, she turned from fatty to fatso, in a matter of two months. 

What would've done if I didn't choose you over Fab4? This question always troubled me, deep inside. I wanted to know, whether she would hold me even when I choose them above her.

I would let things settle first and would've won my place in their heart and teach them good lessons which you never thought them. 

Later I would've slapped and tortured you for a few months or until I was satisfied or I felt you won't repeat the same and then I would've married you. She answered groggily. I was stunned to hear that even, I mean I thought things would've turned worst between us.

You would've done that for me? I want to confirm from her.

Yes, I would've. Don't you remember, I'm your personal shining star, who protectives you always as you do to them. If they are your responsibilities, you were mine too. Hmm! Now lets sleep I'm tired because of your son Maan. He is a tantrum queen.

You know, I love you. I whispered to her ears, huskily.

Yeah, you tell me it every day. Nothing new. She cuddled peacefully in my arms. I was content hearing her out. I was damn lucky to have her. 

When I was in heights of happiness and content, I felt someone separating me from Nandini. I opened my eyes in startled as I was badly thrown to my side of the bed. Who the hell?

Maan!! I yelled with Nandini, who smiled goofily yet innocently as he side hugged her. I scowled at the scene. I don't like him doing that. She is mine to hug, I screamed internally.

What are you even doing in our bed? In pure annoyance I questioned, he grinned mischievously.

I know you both do some adult things and bring me more siblings. I don't want that. Wait! What?? I was completely deadpanned hearing him. What on earth taught him that?

Who taught you that? Nandini with narrow eyes questioned him.

Shree Chachu. That stupid.

That asshole. I surely read the mumble of Nandini.

Tell me clearly what he said? she countered him back, not in the mood for any nonsense. I could practically imagine Shree hanging upside down by Nandini. It will be a treat to watch the scene.

He told me to sleep in between you both if I don't want more siblings. He did what? Scoundrel. He loves to see me sexually frustrated. That piece of shit.

Maan, don't listen to that Chachu of yours. He is teaching you bad things. And will not be more siblings for you. Nandini told him softly. 

If says something like this next time you tell me, I'll personally make sure, he has cold showers every night. I added more, brat Shree. I make sure the couch would be your bed from tomorrow night.

Why does Shree Chachu need cold showers at night? Does he have some problems? Maan asked me innocently, I grinned mischievously as Nandini threw dare-you-to-spoil-my-son look.

No, he will have problems from tomorrow, so, he needs cold showers at night. I clearly answered him, Maan pouted sadly for his Chachu, while Nandini grinned with me, cunningly.

Okay, we'll provide a bucket full of cold waters for him from our side. We couldn't contain ourselves, we broke into fits of laughter hearing Maan's innocent, he pouted blankly at us, as Nandini hugged him still laughing with me. Poor Shree.

#

Well, this how after thirteen years, Manik Malhotra turned his disaster nightmare into a dreamy reality.

~END~

##

Okay, before I start, I would dedicate this chapter who guessed it right or even thought or even wanted part-1 as a nightmare. Sorry, if I missed anyone from the comments. I kept my promise.

Priyanshi22minnie1911Jyotibiswalsristy_29PriyankaDeepakMakhijmoon_princess20DristyBanikGargi97littlebirdie276

How is it?

Actually, the moral of this story will be?

I wrote this story for only one reason.

We often tend to make 'hasty decisions'. Without thinking about the consequences. Yes, sometimes we need to make decisions on the spot, but I want you to do one thing, Take that decision from your heart; based on your inner instincts, or go to some who would guide you to make the best decisions.

If you feel you can't decide, give it some time, if it isn't an emergency. Time will help you to see the situation in a different light, and may also help you in making better decisions. Just don't rush and regret later.

Your Decision will not only change you but someone around you too. Make sure never to put someone in trouble. Never make harsh decisions that could hurt others. Think before you step in.

The inspiration of the first part will be Karan of Mahabharath,

He did the right things for the wrong people and ended up giving his life. The world knew him for his sacrifices, that selfless sacrifice didn't save him, but brought him to death itself when he sacrificed his Karan kundal for Indra, which directly helped Arjun to kill him. His good deeds weren't served to him just because he chose Kauravas, even though he still had a chance to move towards Pandavas with help of Lord Krishna when he narrated his birth secret, still he stuck to his devotion with Kauravas, Ended up being a martyr for the Kauravas. (Correct me if I'm wrong)

Part-2 will be the decisions if you hear your heart or instincts. Always chose the truth. Always.

If Part-1 is a reality, not a nightmare, what would be your alternative plot?

Trust me, if Part-1 was reality, I wouldn't have given a happy ending for this book at all. In fact, Part-1 would be the end of this os. I don't believe in giving chances for all the investments I did to anyone, emotionally for twice. That's me.

What would you've done, if it was you in place of Nandini & Maan?

Would you give the chance or walk out? 

Thank you for reading patiently, sorry for making you cry in last part. I just wanna make my point here with a small os, here. Thank you for loving it.

Lot's of Love