Hey guys! Another update from your messy author!❤️
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The 'Not so quiet' morning, (Author's POV)

The Bhardwaj villa was alive with its signature chaos, the energy magnified by the looming year-end. Everyone had deadlines, targets, and last-minute resolutions to chase, making the house feel like a buzzing marketplace rather than a peaceful home.

In the center of the living room, Manish, seated with a tablet and endless files, raised his voice. "Mansi bhabhi, Aparna bhabhi, at least check these numbers! I can't handle the Bhardwaj Ltd. year-end projections alone!"

"Bhaiya, don't drag me into this right now," Aparna snapped, balancing a tray of tea cups as she moved towards the dining table. "I'm already dealing with Ruhan's half-done pitch reports. That boy takes 'last-minute' to a whole new level!"

"Now you know how I feel every day," Siya called from the other side of the room, sitting cross-legged with her sketchpad. "I've been waiting all week for him to help me choose fabrics for my designs, but no-'I'm busy,' he says, then spends an hour perfecting his hair."

"I perfect my hair because it's one of my best assets," Ruhan quipped as he entered the room, casually rolling up the sleeves of his shirt. His mischievous grin widened as he leaned over Siya's shoulder. "But not as perfect as my wife, obviously."

Siya tried to push him away, though her blush betrayed her. "Ruhan, stop distracting me! I need these sketches finalized today!"

"Why not take a break?" Ruhan whispered, his tone low. "We could review them together... somewhere less noisy. Like, say, our room?"

"Ruhan!" Siya swatted him with her pencil, trying not to laugh. "You're impossible."

"I try," Ruhan replied, grinning as he kissed her forehead before walking off, leaving her shaking her head in disbelief.

At the other end of the villa, Aashika, seated at the dining table with her laptop, was furiously typing away. "X-Guides needs to be in the top three firms this year," she muttered, barely looking up. She raised her voice enough to make the person on the other side flinch, "I don't care if the supplier is two days late; they will have to deliver it by tomorrow."

Across from her, Rishika, surrounded by fabric samples and export catalogs, groaned. "Aashika, can you yell at your suppliers a bit more quietly?"

"Ohkay!" Aashika shrugged it off.

From the kitchen, Samaira, stirring a pot of tea, yelled, "Rivan! Rohit! If you two don't come down now, you're skipping breakfast!"

"Coming, Badi Ma!" Rohit shouted, jogging down the stairs in his scrubs. "Rivan, hurry up! We're late for rounds!"

"I'm here!" Rivan, still tying his shoes, called out. "And if you hadn't bathed for so long, we'd be on time."

"It's called 'getting ready to save lives,' Rivan," Rohit shot back, grabbing a piece of toast. "You wouldn't understand."

From the study, Mansi, holding a notepad, shouted, "Manish bhaiya, can you stop yelling about projections and finalize the new contracts for Bhardwaj Ltd.? I've already handled three client calls this morning!"

"Don't worry, bhabhi," Manish replied, smirking. "I trust you're a genius. You and bhabhi have this under control."

"Control?" Aparna muttered, pouring herself a cup of tea. "That's rich, coming from the guy who's still triple-checking his own spreadsheets."

The chaos crescendoed as everyone juggled their responsibilities, deadlines, and-inevitably-the occasional teasing. Yet amidst the whirlwind, there was an undeniable sense of unity.

As Ruhan passed the dining table again, he paused by Aashika. "Need help, CEO? I'm a master at multitasking, you know."

Aashika didn't look up. "Ruhan, better go and do this buttering in front of Maa...she might give you a holiday for your date but I won't help!"

"Ah! Don't break hopes now." Ruhan said with a shrug, winking as he walked off.

And so, the Bhardwaj villa carried on in its delightful chaos-each person determined to make their mark, with enough teasing, love, and ambition to keep things lively.

At X-Guides, (Author's POV)

Rohit was leaning against Aashika's desk, flipping through a medical journal while Aashika scribbled something on her notepad. The atmosphere was calm and casual until the door swung open abruptly.

In came Advait, his shoulders weighed down with a massive pile of files. Without even noticing Rohit, he collapsed onto the chair beside Aashika's desk, his back to Rohit, and let out a dramatic sigh.

"Aashika! Do you have any idea what your husband has put me through today?" he exclaimed, dropping the files noisily onto the desk. "One minute he's in the hospital, barking orders about some emergency surgery, and the next, he vanishes into thin air! And don't even get me started on the other... uh, 'extra work' he handed me. Do you know how many people I had to call today to keep the 'business' running smoothly? Fifteen! FIFTEEN! I'm practically running the whole operation!"

Aashika exchanged a knowing glance with Rohit, barely suppressing her laughter. Advait, still oblivious to Rohit's presence, continued his rant, waving his arms for emphasis.

He continued, "And on top of that, I still have to sort out all these hospital appointments, manage the supplies, and deal with that cranky anesthesiologist who keeps asking why Rohit disappears for hours. Honestly, if this keeps up, I'm going to need a second assistant just to keep up with his workload!"

Rohit finally smirked, picked up a pen from Aashika's desk, and flicked it straight at Advait's head.

"Ow!" Advait yelped, spinning around. His eyes widened as he saw Rohit standing there, arms crossed with an amused expression. "S-Sir?! You were here the whole time?!"

Rohit leaned casually against the desk, feigning deep disappointment. "Long enough to hear how you think I'm the worst boss in the world. Advait, you're disowned. Effective immediately. No salary. No perks. No... anything."

Advait looked like he'd been struck by lightning. "Disowned?! Sir, you can't do that! Who's going to manage your appointments? Your surgeries? And don't even get me started on those 'special' underworld meetings! You need me, sir!"

Aashika chuckled, folding her arms. "Well, if Rohit disowns you, maybe I'll hire you instead. You've got a good sense of humor, at least. You can be my entertainer..."

Advait perked up immediately. "Really? What would you hire me for? And... how much will you pay me?"

Rohit, grinning mischievously, grabbed a notepad and scribbled "10 lakh" on it. He slid it discreetly under the table to Aashika. She glanced at it and smirked.

"Hmm... I think 10 lakh a month sounds fair," Aashika said casually.

The smile on Advait's face dropped instantly. "10 lakh?! Are you serious?! Sir already pays me 20 lakh! This isn't a promotion-it's daylight robbery!"

Just then, the door swung open again, and Rishika, Siya, and Rivan walked in. Their faces were lit with amusement, clearly enjoying the show.

Rose narrated the whole incident to them while Advait was still finding where his jaw was!? which has actually dropped down hearing Aashika's deal!🤣🫨

Siya leaned against the doorframe, shaking her head with a laugh. "Oh, Advait, this is gold. You didn't even realize Rohit was right there, did you?"

Rishika smirked. "And you got excited about Aashika bhabhi hiring you...Ten lakh? That's classic Advait."

Advait groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I can't believe this. Sir, aap aisa kaise kar sakte ho...You are disowning me...Am I less than your own child?"
(I can't believe this. Sir, how can you do this..You are disowning me...Am I less than your own child?)

Rohit clearly barked hearing Advait's insane words, "What the fuck! You and my child!?! Are you high on something? You're being a menace now!"

Everybody else erupted into immense laughter.

Aashika teased, "OMG! Rohit, you've a so 'big' baby! Who's the mother by the way?"

Advait finally realised his words! He spat out, "Oh! Sorry I-I didn't mean that!"

Rivan chimed in, "Bro! You became a father even before your elder brothers....tch tch...why did you hurry so much!"

Rohit threw the paperweight at him! But somehow he escaped...Poor shot!

Advait turned to Rohit, his voice full of desperation. "Sir, please don't disown me! I'll never complain again. I'll even take care of all your... uh, 'side projects' without whining!"

Rohit exchanged a glance with Aashika, who shrugged with a playful smile. "We'll see, Advait. But next time, maybe check the room before venting about your boss. And... don't go on blabbering always!!"

The room erupted into laughter as Advait slumped back into his chair, muttering, "I need a new job... or maybe just a new life!"

The Secret Discussion🤐 (Aashika's POV)

It was 4 PM on a Saturday, and the office had turned into a war room. I don't know if we were planning a birthday celebration or, like, an international heist at this point. The papers on my desk had been replaced by scribbled notes, cake flavors, and a messy drawing of a hill that looked more like a blob. Rohit was circling it with a red pen, probably trying to pretend he was the mastermind behind this operation.

"You know," Rishika said, twirling her pen like she was preparing for a job interview, "this feels like we're robbing a bank. Secret locations, codes, multiple players..."

"Exactly," I said with a smirk. "Except instead of cash, we're stealing memories. Very expensive ones, might I add."

"Expensive?" Rivan shot me a look. "We're talking about a birthday celebration, not a trip to a private island."

I crossed my arms, mock-serious. "Is there a difference? This birthday is going to cost you-emotionally, of course."

"Right," Rohit chimed in, completely ignoring the sarcasm. "So, let's review: We've got the location, the food, the guest list... We need one more thing to really elevate the experience."

"Spicy truth or dare?" Siya suggested, with a mischievous grin. "Because nothing says 'birthday vibes' like revealing your deepest, darkest secrets to everyone you know."

"Oh, hell yes," I said, practically clapping my hands. "Picture this-everyone gathered around the bonfire, the mood just right, and then-bam! A round of spicy truth or dare. Let's see who really knows how to keep a secret. I think Rivan's gonna have some fun with this."

Rivan raised an eyebrow. "I'm an open book, Aashika."

"Sure you are," I said, flashing a sly smile. "Tell me, do you still sleep with your childhood teddy bear? Or have you upgraded to something a little... more mature?"

Rivan nearly choked on his water. "That's... that's classified information."

"Exactly," I said, waving my hand dismissively. "You can't hide from truth or dare. Let's just say there will be a lot of revealing going on, including those crushes from high school that you guys still think are top-secret."

"Now you're talking," Rivan said, laughing. "But we need something to really shake things up. We've got the truth or dare, but what else? Something unexpected?"

Rohit smiled wickedly. "What if we throw in a surprise gift exchange? I mean, let's be real, their wives-ahem, you two-are in charge of picking something special. You know, a gift that'll really show how much we love them." He pointed towards Siya and Rishika who were already throwing daggers at him in return.🤣

"Gifts? Oh, this is getting serious," I said, grinning. "I can already see it. Ajay opens a present from you, Rishika, and suddenly he's in tears over... what, socks?"

"Pfft, not socks, Aashika," Rishika retorted. "I'm thinking something personal-maybe a cool gadget he's been eyeing, or something sentimental. You know, the kind of thing that says, 'I get you' without saying a word."

"Right," I said, nodding thoughtfully. "And Siya, I'm sure you've got something amazing planned for Ruhan. Maybe a gift so unique, he'll be speechless. Or maybe a new surgery kit?"

"Ha, very funny," Siya said with a roll of her eyes. "But seriously, I'm a baby myself, how can I surprise such a huge man!?A book or piece of art...Though he is an item himself.." She said shrugging off casually and here we were laughing like manicas.

"Okay, okay," I said, pretending to look serious. "So the wives are taking on the heavy lifting with the gifts. Got it. Let's just make sure we don't mess this up, huh? I'm not saying it's life or death, but..."

Rivan smirked. "Life or death? Seriously, Aashika? It's just a birthday, not the final exam."

"Maybe not," I said, leaning back in my chair. "But trust me, when Ruhan and Ajay open those gifts, there's no turning back. They'll know we really care. And if not, well, we can always just blame it on the 'spicy truth or dare' session for the emotional rollercoaster."

Siya laughed. "Exactly. A good gift and a wild game-what could go wrong?"

"Exactly!" I said, feeling the excitement building. "This has to be the best surprise of their lives. And trust me, they'll love it."

"So, we're set," Rohit said, tapping the whiteboard. "Epic location, check. Truth or dare, check. Surprises, check. And most importantly, the guys are going to love every minute of it."

"Oh, they'll love it," I said with a wicked smile. "They'll remember this birthday as the day they thought they were going on a peaceful hilltop retreat, and instead, they ended up in the middle of a full-blown party-with a twist."

We already had a pretty good feeling that the guys wouldn't know what hit them. The truth or dare, the surprises, the gift exchange-it was going to be the perfect mix of chaos and love. And honestly? We were here for all of it.

One...Two...Three...Your jaw dropped somewhere, find it duh! (Rishika's POV)

Two days!
Yes, only two days left for their birthday! I'm so waiting for it. It's gonna be breath-taking.

And as of now, I'm heading to the hospital. These routine checkups suck me but kya kare pati ka hukum hai ki tum ek din mujhe khana Dena bhul jaana lekin checkup mat bhulna! Gazab pagal hai ye....
(These regular checkups suck me but what can I do, it's my husband's order...He told me that it's okay if you forget to give me food for a day but never forget your routine checkup! What a creature!)

As I reached the hospital, the faint smell of medicines welcomed me. I went to the receptionist, she told me to wait for a few minutes. I extended my hand to fetch a water bottle, but someone held my wrist, "What the-"

And next, I was stunned only to see my annoying husband giving me a cheeky smile.

"Tumhara routine checkup pe akele aane ka man nhi tha na, lo Mai aa gya!" He took the waiting card from the receptionist and held my hand gesturing to move forward.
(You didn't want to go to a routine checkup alone, right? So, I'm here!)

The doctor wrote a few tests and instructed us to go to the lab. Obviously, I never had to wait, mera pati senior doctor hai yahan ka!😏
(Obviously, I never had to wait as my husband is the senior doctor here)

The doctor examined the reports carefully with a steady gaze, his eyes not lingering us for a single moment

"Ms. Rishika, I insist you to get a few more tests." The doctor said with his gaze still glued to the reports.

Ajay's brows furrowed in confusion, "Why? Is everything alright?"

"Not really. But just for clarifications." The doctor remarked with no room left for further questions.

Ajay hummed in response and after performing a few more tests....we waited for the reports.

"Iske baad shopping krne chale kya?" I asked him with hope shimmering in my eyes. But obviously, my Grumpy Bird never answers like a normal human!
(Should we go for shopping after this?)

He just hummed and continued pacing around as if the reports had some confidential information. Isse bolna hi nhi chahiye tha yahan aane ke liye, mujhse jyada to ye darta hai!😒
(I shouldn't have told him to come here, he is afraid even more than me!)

"Dr. Bhardwaj! I disown you as my husband!" I exclaimed furiously and started walking away!
Now, this man was irritating me!

"Suniye!" He shouted.
(Listen)

"Sunaiye!" I answered back and he smiled sheepishly! Oh! Why did I reply him!! I was angry...
(Speak)

"You tricky man! You know that right, whenever you say 'suniye', I can't resist myself from replying! So, you think you can always use this trick!" I shouted at him, with my index finger almost reaching his head by now.

"Rishika, are you okay? Don't you think, you're being weird these days?" He looked at me with a serious expression.

Is it so?

Am I being weird?

As I drifted into my thoughts, I heard him crazily laughing at me, this man is going to be the death of me!!

Just when I was about to retort, a nurse came towards us and told us to go to the doctor.

As we entered, Dr. Nikhil, one of Ajay's crazy friends (partner in crime), welcomed us with a wide smile, one that immediately put me on edge. Ajay, ever the composed one, raised an eyebrow, muttering under his breath, "What's with the grin? Did he win the lottery?"

Dr. Nikhil leaned back in his chair, clearly enjoying the suspense. "Sit down, both of you," he said, waving towards the chairs. "This is going to be good."

Ajay narrowed his eyes, folding his arms. "Nikhil, stop being dramatic. What's going on? Why are you smiling like a dumb!"

"Alright, alright," Dr. Nikhil said, holding up his hands in surrender. He leaned forward, his voice softening. "Ajay, Rishika... you're going to be parents."

The room went deathly quiet. I blinked at him, I'm sure I'd misheard. Ajay froze beside me, his normally confident demeanor shattering into pure disbelief.

"What?" he finally croaked, his voice low, almost inaudible.

"You heard me," Dr. Nikhil said, smiling gently now. "Rishika's pregnant. Congratulations, buddy."

I felt my heart race, my breath catching as the words sank in. Pregnant? Parents? How could this be happening? My voice trembled as I whispered, "Nikhil, this... this can't be real. Are you absolutely sure?"

"Completely sure," he replied, his tone steady. "I double-checked the results. You're a few weeks along, Rishika. It's happening."

I turned to Ajay, my hands shaking. He looked completely lost, his gaze darting between me and Nikhil like he was trying to wake up from a dream. "A father?" he mumbled, as if saying the word aloud would make it more believable. "Me? What? How...? When...?"

Dr. Nikhil chuckled, leaning back again. "You really want me to explain the 'how'?" he teased, trying to lighten the mood.

"Not now, Nikhil!" Ajay snapped, his voice louder than I'd ever heard.

"A father? Me?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.

I swallowed hard, my hands trembling as they clutched the arms of the chair. "Ajay... I... I didn't expect this either."

For a moment, we both just stared at each other, the weight of the news sinking in. Then, out of nowhere, Ajay let out a laugh-a breathless, incredulous laugh that made me jump.

"We're going to be parents?" he asked again, this time louder, the edges of his lips twitching upward. "Oh my God, Rishika, we're going to be parents!"

His words cracked something inside me, and tears welled up in my eyes-tears of shock, disbelief, and overwhelming happiness all at once. "Ajay..." I choked out, not knowing what else to say.

He reached for my hand, his grip firm yet gentle, and in that moment, the initial shock melted away into something beautiful. "Rishika, do you realize what this means? We're going to have a baby-a part of us!" he said, his voice trembling with emotion.

I nodded, unable to speak, tears streaming down my face.

"Hey, don't cry," he said, his own eyes glistening. "We didn't see this coming, but isn't that what makes it amazing? Life just handed us the biggest and the best surprise, and it's... it's perfect."

Dr. Nikhil clapped his hands together, breaking the moment. "Alright, lovebirds, I think you've got it now. Rishika, we'll schedule your next check-up soon, but for now, I'd say go celebrate!"

Ajay shot him a look, still grinning. "You've just changed our lives forever, Nikhil. Don't think I'll let you off that easily."

Dr. Nikhil laughed. "Definitely!"

As we walked out of the room, Ajay suddenly stopped in the hallway and turned to me. His hands cupped my face, his expression soft yet filled with determination.

"Rishika," he said, his voice low and steady, "this might be the biggest surprise of our lives, but I promise you, we're going to be amazing at this. You and me... and our baby. I can't wait."

I broke into a teary smile, wrapping my arms around him. "Neither can I, Ajay. This is the start of something beautiful. But-"

"But what, Rishika?" He looked straight into my eyes.

"Gharwalo ko kya bolenge?" I asked him with a weird, okay not weird but dumb expression on my face!
(What will we say to our family?)

"Jo Kiya vo bolenge!" He said with his lips curling into a wild smirk.
(We'll say what we did!)

"Kya yaar! Mazaak kyu kar rhe ho? Aise to unhe pta chal jayega ki humne vahan honeymoon pe kya kiya." I replied with a pout on my face, casually wrapping my hand around his shoulder, walking on the pavement.
(What man! Why are you joking? In this way everyone will know, what we did at our honeymoon!)

We were looking nothing but like ducklings by the way we were walking!🦆😌

"Pta chal rha hai to chalne do...Kuch sikhenge vo humse. Aur ab sabko ye to pta hi hai ki hum honeymoon pe Gaye the...Aur honeymoon pe jo hota hai vo humne kiya!" He replied back and when I looked at him, he returned the same pout I was giving him a few minutes ago! This man!😒
(If they are knowing, then let them know... They'll learn something from us. And everyone already knew that we're going on a honeymoon... So, it's normal if we did what genuine couples do on a honeymoon.)

"Bacche ke saamne aisi ashleel baatein krte hue tumhe sharam nhi aati!" I said while looking and pointing towards my belly, my baby!
(You shouldn't say such indecent things in front of a baby.)

"Jis bacche ki tum baat kar rhi ho na, uske paida hone ki wajah hi humari vo ashleel harkatein hai, samjhi!" He answered back with a wide grin dancing on his face.
(The child you're talking about is the result of our indecent acts only, got it!)

What the-

As I was about to retort, something clicked into my mind and I exclaimed, "Wait! Let's go!"

He didn't even protest. As we reached to our car, he held my hand with a firm grip.

"Kya?" I asked hoping something sensible.
(What?)

"You're pregnant. Sit on the backseat." He opened the door and gestured me to sit in!

"Well, I'd say, welcome to fatherhood, Dr. Ajay Bhardwaj!" I stepped in as he took over the driver's seat.

"Welcome to motherhood too, Ms. Rishika Gandhi!" He exclaimed, dramatically adjusting his hair in the rear view mirror of the car.

"By the way, where are we going?" He asked as the engine roared to speed.

"Jewellery shop!" I exclaimed and he saluted like a polite husband!😌

And just like that, the shock turned into something far more powerful-pure, unfiltered joy. My goodness, I still can't believe, we're three now!

The Expectations, (Author's POV)

The warm amber light of the setting sun spilled into Ruhan's office, casting golden streaks across the polished floor and the desk cluttered with reports, charts, and plans. The air was heavy with the quiet tension of a year nearing its end, and the weight of expectations hung over them.

Ruhan sat casually on the edge of his desk, flipping through a file with practiced ease. His sharp gaze absorbed every number and detail, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. Across the room, Manish stood near the window, arms crossed, his piercing eyes fixed on the bustling city below. The silence was broken only by the faint hum of the air conditioner and the occasional rustle of papers.

"Ruhan," Manish began, his deep voice cutting through the stillness, "these backlogs-how do you plan to address them? We're entering the final stretch, and the competition is fierce."

Ruhan glanced up, his smirk widening. "Bade Papa, you worry too much. Trust me, Bhardwajs are set to secure the 2nd spot in the Striding Companies of the Year rankings. It's practically guaranteed."

Manish turned sharply, his brows furrowing. "Second? Why not the 1st? Are we aiming for mediocrity now?"

Ruhan chuckled, setting the file aside. He straightened up, folding his arms across his chest as he leaned against the desk. "Because the 1st spot is already taken."

Manish's frown deepened. "By whom?"

Ruhan's sly grin returned. "X-Guides. Kya bade papa! Umar ke saath saath yaadash kamzor ho rhi hai, apni bahu ko bhool gaye kya! She's locked it in the trading sector rankings. Honestly, she shouldn't be dethroned, all regards to her efforts!"
(X-Guides. I think you're losing the ability to memorize with your increasing age, you forgot your very own daughter-in-law! She's locked it in the trading sector rankings. Honestly, she shouldn't be dethroned, all regards to her efforts!)

For a moment, Manish's stern expression held, but then his shoulders relaxed, and a rare smile appeared on his face. He walked over and lightly smacked Ruhan's arm. "You had me worried for a moment, you rascal! But if that's the case, I'm fine with it. At least both titles are within the family, not in the hands of strangers."

Ruhan grinned. "Exactly. The Bhardwajs are dominating as always."

Manish's smile faded slightly, replaced by a more reflective expression. "Still, our job isn't done. Aashika's success is a matter of pride for all of us, but we can't afford to slack off. Keeping the 1st and 2nd positions within the family is just the beginning. We're not here to just win titles; we're here to restore the Bhardwaj name to its rightful glory."

Ruhan's face grew serious, and he nodded. "Don't worry. We'll get there. Together."

Before the conversation could continue, Ruhan's phone buzzed loudly on the desk. He picked it up, frowning as Ajay's name flashed on the screen. He answered immediately.

"Ajay? What's up?"

Ajay's voice came through, hurried and tense. "Ruhan, get home. Now. Bring everyone. No time to explain."

"What happened?" Ruhan pressed, but the line went dead before he could get an answer.

Ruhan and Manish exchanged a sharp look. Without another word, Manish grabbed his coat while Ruhan quickly collected his things. The tension in the room was palpable as they rushed out, their minds racing with questions.

Whatever had caused Ajay's urgency, one thing was certain-it was time for a good DRAMA!

The Cheerful Revelation, (Author's POV)

The villa was buzzing with energy as everyone gathered around, waiting in suspense for Ajay and Rishika to reveal the big news. The family had been called in an emergency, and although the room was filled with curiosity, no one had an inkling of what was to come.

Nysa and Vinay sat together, exchanging glances. "Do you think it's something serious?" Nysa asked, her concern evident.

Vinay shrugged. "No idea. But you know Ajay, he likes to make everything feel like a drama."

Meanwhile, Ishwari and Samaira were leaned over the dining table, whispering and speculating, while Mansi and Aparna tried to decode the cryptic messages they'd received. Everyone was talking, but no one knew the reason for the gathering.

Manish was pacing in frustration. "I had to cancel two meetings and a dinner reservation for this, Ajay! This better be good!"

Ajay simply smiled, his calm demeanor only adding to the mystery. "Relax, Bade Papa. You'll thank me later. Just sit down and hold your horses."

Before anyone could respond, the door creaked open, and Aashika walked in, a look of annoyance on her face. "Ajay, I swear, if this is another one of your surprise announcements-"

Rishika teased her. "What, you didn't want to be a part of the big reveal, Aashika? I thought you were dying to know!"

Aashika rolled her eyes but took a seat beside Rishika. "Fine. But if this is about another weird family game, I'm walking out."

Just as Ajay was about to speak, the door opened once more, and Rohit entered, his doctor's coat still on, looking frazzled and out of breath. "Sorry, sorry! I came straight from the hospital. What's going on? Is it a medical emergency?"

Ruhan smirked. "Rohit, you've got to stop diagnosing every situation. It's just a family gathering. Sit down before you try to prescribe vitamins to us."

Ajay sighed dramatically. "Rohit, just sit. I'll tell you everything in a second."

Before Ajay could get any further, the door swung open once again, and in walked Rivan, looking totally unfazed as he sipped from his ever-present juice box. "Am I late? Did I miss the drama?"

Ajay threw his hands up in exasperation. "Rivan! How many times do I have to tell you to stop entering like you're in a Bollywood movie?! Who even told you to appear!"

Rivan just grinned, unfazed. "I bring the drama, bhai. Moreover, when I checked last, this is my home too. Yoy can't disown me!"

Dadi, who had been watching the spectacle with a knowing smile, chuckled. "Yeh Rivan toh har waqt apni film banaata rehta hai. Kabhi toh juice bhi side rakho!"
(This Rivan is always making his own film. At least put that juice aside for once!)

Rivan winked. "Dadi, you know hydration is key!"

Ajay sighed, clearly done with the interruptions. He grabbed a few blue boxes from the table, his hands slightly shaking in anticipation. "Okay, enough with the theatrics. Everyone, open this at the same time."

The room went silent as everyone eagerly ripped open their boxes.

Inside were delicate, beautifully crafted bracelets, each one engraved with a special title: "Bua" for Nysa, "Chachu" for Rivan and Rohit, "Chachi" for Aashika "Bade Papa" for Ruhan, "Masi" for Siya and so on.

The room was stunned into silence for a brief moment as the realization sank in.

Dadi was the first to break the silence, her eyes wide with shock. "Arre! Ajay beta, tum papa banne wale ho?"
(Oh my God! Ajay, are you going to become a father?)"

Ajay, his smile growing wider by the second, nodded. "Yes, Dadi. Rishika and I are going to be parents."

The family erupted in laughter, joy, and applause.

Nysa jumped to her feet, clapping her hands. "OMG! This baby is going to be a dad! I can't believe it! I'm so happy!"

Vinay joined in with a grin. "Congrats, bro! But just remember, babies don't come with a mute button, okay?"

Rivan, not missing a beat, chimed in, "I'm betting the baby learns to say 'no' before 'mama' with Ajay around."

Ajay smirked. "And with you in the mix, Rivan, the baby will probably think you're their personal playmate."

Siya jumped up, throwing her arms around Rishika. "Oh my God! This is amazing! You both are going to be such amazing parents! And this baby is going to be so spoiled by all of us!"

Aashika grinned, "I'm already planning the first business course for when he/she turns three. He/she will be a little CEO by five."

Rohit laughed. "And I'll handle the medical side. I'll be the one gifting the first stethoscope!"

Dadi, always the center of attention, leaned in to give Rishika a hug. "Beta, yeh toh bas shuruaat hai. Tum dekhna, parivaar ke chhote mehmaan kitni khushiyan lekar aayega!"
(Dear, this is just the beginning. You'll see, our little guest will bring so much happiness to the family!)

Manish put a hand over his heart. "I can't believe it. I'm officially old."

Nysa teased, "Bade papa, you were old the day you started wearing reading glasses."

Rishika wiped away a tear, laughing. "This baby hasn't even arrived yet, and they're already being overwhelmed with love."

Everyone gathered around, teasing and celebrating together. The cousins were playfully arguing over who would spoil the baby the most, while Ajay and Rishika exchanged knowing smiles. This moment, filled with love and joy, was the beginning of a new chapter for their family.

Suddenly, Rohit dragged Ajay away from the crowd, followed by Ruhan, Rivan, and Vinay, all grinning like cats who had just caught the canary.

Rohit leaned in with a smirk. "So, Ajay, you're actually gonna be a dad? The man who never took a break, huh? What happened to all that 'I'm married to my work' nonsense?"

Vinay chuckled, "Yeah, we thought you were more into saving lives than, you know, creating them!"

Ruhan added, "Who knew Dr. Ajay had the time for... other emergencies, huh?"

Rivan, with his trademark mischievous grin, crossed his arms. "Bhaiya, I honestly thought you were... well, you know... impotent. But here you are, breaking all expectations! I'm shocked!"

Ajay's face turned crimson, and he flicked Rivan's head. "Shut up, Rivan! Why the hell did you even think that!!"

Rohit laughed, "Oh, I can't wait to see you trying to handle a baby, Ajay. You'll be up at 3 AM, Googling 'How to Calm a Crying Baby,' right?"

Vinay added, "And let's not forget the sleepless nights. You're gonna need more than a stethoscope to survive this one, bro!"

Ajay groaned, "I'm never telling you all something again!"

Ruhan, always the instigator, winked. "Oh come on, Ajay, don't be like that. We've all been waiting for this moment. To see you making crazy faces and taking out those baby voices, 'gi gi, ga ga' and all..."

All of them erupted into laughter.

Rivan smirked, "Yeah, Bhaiya, get ready for your biggest, most chaotic 'patient' yet!"

Ajay sighed dramatically. "Alright, alright, you guys win. But mark my words-y'all are going to be on the same train one day!"

He ended with a wild smirk, while others diverted their gazes here and there to avoid the hilarious moment!🤣

As the night wore on, everyone continued to celebrate with laughter, teasing, and heartfelt congratulations. The villa was full of happiness, and the joy of the upcoming baby echoed in every corner. This was what family was all about-support, love, belief and togetherness.

The Moonlit Night, (Author's POV)

The room was quiet, save for the faint hum of the night outside. Moonlight poured in through the slightly parted curtains, casting a soft, silvery glow. Rohit and Aashika sat close on the bed, the stillness of the moment offering respite from the whirlwind of their day.

"You know," Rohit began softly, his fingers brushing against hers, "today was chaotic, but somehow, it feels perfect now. Just you and me, like this."

Aashika smiled faintly, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. Her silence stretched, and Rohit turned to her, his brows knitting with concern.

"Aashika," he said gently, tilting his head to catch her gaze. "What's wrong?"

She hesitated, her hands fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. "It's just... the year-end results," she finally admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "Rohit, this year, I have to make it to the top. For the past few years, second or third place felt like enough, but not anymore. My team's spirit depends on it. I can't let them down."

Rohit didn't respond immediately. Instead, he shifted closer, wrapping his hands around hers. The warmth of his touch seemed to steady her trembling fingers.

"Aashika," he said after a pause, his voice low and calm, "you've never been the type to let anyone down. You carry so much, yet you always find a way. This year will be no different."

"But what if it is?" she asked, her voice breaking slightly. "What if I can't do it this time?"

He cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing her cheek. "Then I'll remind you of who you are-a woman who built something extraordinary with nothing but her determination and heart. I'll remind you that even when you doubt yourself, the rest of us never will."

Her eyes softened, glistening as she looked at him. "You make it sound so easy."

"It's not easy," he murmured, resting his forehead against hers, "but you don't have to do it alone. I'm here, every step of the way. So is the family. You'll rise, Aashika. And when you do, it'll be even more beautiful because you'll know you were never alone."

She closed her eyes, exhaling a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "You're too good to me."

"Not possible," he replied softly, his lips brushing her temple.

The weight of her worries began to fade, replaced by the serene comfort of his presence. She leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder, and for a while, neither spoke. The quiet of the night cradled them, a silent promise of togetherness stronger than any fear or challenge.

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(6.34k words)
So, how was the roller coaster ride? Everything is getting back on it's track, right? But not for much time, just a few more chapters and the chaos re-enters!😏

Author's not gonna let you guys laugh much! Never mind, next update after 20th Feb, after my exams end, I promise minimum 6 updates a month!✨ Sounds good, no?👽

Share your feedback in the comment section & help promote the book!❤️

With regards,
Wings_Of_Passion
🎀🎀