Author pov...

Vaibhav arrives in Delhi and heads straight to Rahul’s house.

The front door is slightly open.

He steps inside quietly and then pauses.

On the sofa, he sees Divya, Bhavya, and Deepak sprawled over each other, fast asleep in a messy heap.

He lets out a tired sigh.

Just then, Rajni walks up from behind.

She notices him and smiles in surprise.“Arrey, Vaibhav beta, when did you come?”

"Just now, aunty” he replies.

She walks in and the moment her eyes fall on the three of them, she freezes in shock.“What happened to them?!”

Vaibhav moves closer and gently shakes Divya.“Divya… Divya, wake up.”

She groans, half-asleep. “Vaibhav… let me sleep…”

“Get up, Divya,” he insists.

Meanwhile, Rajni starts waking Deepak.

Hearing the noise, Bhavya slowly opens her eyes too.

As she looks around at the crowded room and all the chaos, irritation flashes across her face.

Divya finally sits up, rubbing her head.“Vaibhav… when did you come from Banaras?”

“Just now. Are you okay?” he asks, concerned.

She winces slightly. “My head feels really heavy…”

Without wasting a second, Vaibhav goes to the kitchen, mixes lemon in water, and brings it back for her.

Rajni, however, looks at Deepak with disappointment.“You drank alcohol, didn’t you?”

Deepak avoids her eyes.

Guilt is written all over his face.

Without saying a word, he gets up and walks out toward his house.

Rajni follows him, clearly upset.

Bhavya gets up from the sofa and walks to her room. She glances at the clock.

8:00 a.m.

Her expression changes instantly.

“That means… I missed my night duty…”

Frustration builds up inside her.

She grips her head tightly, anger rising mostly at herself.

Vaibhav looks at Divya, his concern slowly turning into seriousness.

“Divya… why did you drink?” he asks quietly. “I’m really sorry if I stressed you out about the medicines… but doing this drinking like that everything we’re trying to do with the IVF procedure… it could all get ruined.”

Divya’s expression falls.

Guilt hits her instantly.

She holds her head, avoiding his eyes.

“I’m really sorry,” she says softly. “I was careless… I shouldn’t have done that.”

Vaibhav sighs, his tone softening again.“It’s okay… just don’t do this again, okay?”

She nods slightly. “Hmm…”

He gives her a small reassuring look.

“Alright, go take a bath. Then eat something. You haven’t eaten anything since yesterday, right?”

“Hmm…” she replies weakly as she tries to get up.

But the moment she stands, dizziness hits her.

She stumbles.

Vaibhav immediately steps forward and holds her firmly.“Hey are you okay?”

“Yes… I’m fine…” she says, though her voice isn’t convincing.

“Come on, slowly,” he says gently, supporting her as he walks her to the room.

Divya goes into the washroom.

As the water runs, flashes of last night begin to return to her mind, making her uneasy.

After a while, she comes out, looking a little fresher.

Vaibhav picks up his clothes.

“I’ll go freshen up too, then I’ll make something for you to eat.”

Divya quickly shakes her head.

“No, it’s okay… I’ll make it.”

He pauses and looks at her carefully.

“You sure? You’re not feeling weak?”

She gives a faint smile, trying to reassure him.“I’m fine… don’t worry.”

But even behind that smile, a hint of exhaustion still lingers.

Divya is in the kitchen, quietly making breakfast, trying to ignore the heaviness in her head.

Rahul steps out of his room, dressed for work. He notices her instantly.

“You drank last night?” he asks, straightforward.

Divya doesn’t turn. “Hmm.”

Rahul’s expression tightens.

“Why would you do that? Vaibhav jiju was so worried. He must’ve been on his way from Banaras—”

“He’s already here,” she interrupts. “He’s taking a shower.”

Rahul pauses. “He’s here? Since when?”

“Since a while,” she replies. Then, firmly, “Now sit and eat before you leave.”

“I’ll eat at the police station,” Rahul says casually.

Divya turns to him, irritation clear.

“I made all this and you’ll eat outside? Sit down.”

Her tone is final.

Rahul exhales and sits, even though he clearly doesn’t want to.

He already knows what’s coming.

Right then, Vaibhav walks in, a faint smile on his face.“Wow… what’s going on between you two?”

“Nothing,” Divya says quickly. “Come, eat.”

Vaibhav sits beside them.

“I’ll call Bhavya,” Rahul says.

“No, you eat. I’ll bring her,” Divya replies and walks away.

Rahul just nods quietly.

Divya enters Bhavya’s room.

Bhavya is still lying in bed.

“Aren’t you going to the station?” Divya asks.

“No. Night duty,” Bhavya murmurs.

“Come have breakfast.”Divya says

“Not hungry. I’ll eat later.”Bhavya replied

“Okay. I’ve kept it for you.”Divya says

Bhavya nods faintly.

Divya closes the door and comes back, sitting with Rahul and Vaibhav.

“Bhavya didn’t come?” Rahul asks.

“She’ll eat later,” Divya replies.

“Hmm.”

After a brief silence, Rahul asks, “How are Mom and Dad?”

Divya looks at him, her eyes narrowing slightly.“You never come to Banaras to see them, but you keep asking how they are.”

Rahul sighs. “Once Dad retires, I’ll bring them to Delhi.”

Divya immediately shakes her head.

“And I’ll just live there without them? Alone?”

“You’ll have Malini aunty… and Vaibhav jiju,” Rahul says.

Divya’s voice turns firm.

“No. You should come to Banaras. After Dadi passed away, you didn’t come even once. Do you realize that?”

Rahul falls silent.

Divya continues, her tone is soft but pressing,“At least now… get married. Come to Banaras with your wife.”

Rahul’s hand stops. He slowly puts his plate down.

“Rahul, you have a good job. There’s nothing lacking in you. You’re 26 it’s time,” she adds.

Rahul suddenly stands.“I’m not getting married, didi.”

Divya’s anger flares.

“Why? You want to live like Devdas forever? The one who left you has moved on and you’re still stuck there!”

“Divya, stop—” Vaibhav tries to step in.

But she doesn’t listen.

“Life is long, Rahul. You need a partner. Understand that!”

Rahul doesn’t reply. He simply walks out.

Divya follows immediately. Vaibhav rushes after her.

“Rahul! I’m not done talking!” she calls out.

He ignores her and heads downstairs.

Divya reaches the lift too late. It’s already gone.

Frustration surges through her.

“Divya, stop this,” Vaibhav says, trying to calm her. “People are watching—”

“Let them watch!” she snaps.

The lift arrives. She steps in, tense and determined.

Moments later, she rushes outside, gets into an auto, and tells the driver to follow Rahul’s car.

Vaibhav stands there, stunned.

“Divya! He’s going to the police station you know that, right?!”

Divya looks back at him, unwavering.

“Yes. I know.”

Vaibhav runs a hand over his face, already bracing himself for the chaos that’s about to unfold.

The entire ride to the police station,

Vaibhav doesn’t stop trying.

“Divya, listen to me… this is not the right way,” he says, trying to stay calm. “You’re angry, I get it but going to his workplace like this? Think once.”

Divya stares straight ahead, jaw tight.

“I’ve already thought enough.”

“Then think again,” Vaibhav insists. “You’ll regret this.”

She doesn’t reply.

The auto stops outside the police station.

Before Vaibhav can hold her back, she gets down and walks in, fast and determined.

“Divya wait!” Vaibhav calls out, rushing after her.

Rahul is just about to step inside when her voice cuts through the air—

“Rahul! I’m talking to you!”

He stops. Turns.

And freezes.

“Didi…?” he says, disbelief clear on his face. “You came here?”

Divya walks straight up to him.

“Yes, I did. Because you don’t listen anywhere else.”

Rahul looks around at the constables, then back at her, his expression hardening.“Do you even realize where you are?” he says, his voice is low but sharp. “This is a police station. My workplace. Not house.”

“I don’t care,” Divya snaps. “You left without listening to me—”

“Oh, so you followed me here?” Rahul cuts her off, anger rising. “Great. Amazing. This is exactly what I needed at work.”

“Don’t twist this!” Divya fires back. “I’m talking about your life—”

“And I’m living it!” Rahul shouts. “Why can’t you understand that?!”

Vaibhav steps in, trying to calm things down.“Rahul, just listen—”

“No, jiju,” Rahul says, not taking his eyes off Divya. “Today she’ll listen.”

He turns back to Divya, voice shaking with frustration.“You want me to get married, right? Fine. You want me to move on, right? Fine!” he says sarcastically. “Or maybe not maybe I should just stop everything altogether.”

Divya’s anger flickers into confusion. “What are you saying?”

Rahul lets out a bitter laugh.

“If my not getting married is such a big problem for you,” he says, his voice is breaking slightly, “then tell me… should I just end my life? Will that solve everything for you?”

Silence.

For a split second, Divya just stares at him.

And then—

SLAP.

The sound echoes across the station.

Every constable goes still.

Eyes widen. No one dares to move.

Vaibhav steps forward, shocked.

“Divya! What are you doing?!”

Divya’s hands are trembling, her eyes filled with anger and hurt.

“Don’t you dare say things like that!” she shouts at Rahul. “Do you even hear yourself?!”

Rahul’s face hardens. His eyes burn with anger and something deeper.

Without a word, he turns and walks away, straight into his cabin.

Divya tries to go after him, but a constable quickly blocks her path.

“Ma’am… please, you can’t go inside without permission,” he says, nervous.

Divya glares at him.“He’s my brother. Move.”

“Sorry, ma’am… I can’t allow that,” he says, clearly scared but firm.

Divya raises her voice, losing all restraint.“Fine! Then listen carefully I’m not going anywhere until he comes out and talks to me!”

Inside the cabin, Rahul hears every word.

His fists clench tightly.

Vaibhav grabs Divya’s wrist, trying to pull her back.“Divya, enough! This is going too far. This isn’t right you’re creating a scene at his workplace!”

“I don’t care!” she snaps, pulling her hand away. “He needs to understand!”

“Not like this!” Vaibhav says firmly. “This isn’t a concern anymore this is stubbornness.”

Divya’s eyes fill with frustration, but she doesn’t move.

“I’m not leaving,” she says, her voice steady but emotional. “Not until he listens to me.”

Vaibhav exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair.“Divya… you’re crossing a line,” he says quietly.

But she stands there, unmoved staring straight at Rahul’s cabin door, waiting.

And inside, Rahul stands just as still… trying to control everything breaking inside him.

Pandey stands nearby, watching the entire scene unfold, clearly tense.

“Ma’am… please calm down,” he says gently. “Please sit. I’ll bring you some water.”

“I don’t want anything,” Divya snaps. “I just want to talk to my brother directly.”

Her voice rises again, deliberately loud enough for Rahul to hear inside.

“RAHUL! COME OUT AND TALK TO ME!”

Vaibhav watches this, getting more and more concerned.

He steps closer and holds her arm.

“Divya, sit down first,” he says firmly.

“I don’t want to sit—”divya said

“Sit,” he insists, this time not giving her a choice. He gently but firmly makes her sit on the chair, then looks at Pandey. “Please… bring water.”

Pandey nods quickly and rushes off.

Divya sits there, restless, her leg shaking with frustration.

Pandey returns with a glass of water.

Vaibhav takes it and hands it to her.

“Drink,” he says softly.

Divya hesitates, then takes it. Vaibhav watches her carefully.

“What are you doing, Divya?” he says in a low, controlled voice. “Calm down. This is a family matter… and this is a government place. People come here with real problems. Let’s

go home.”

“I’m not going anywhere,” she says stubbornly.

Pandey, trying to lighten the situation, speaks hesitantly,“Ma’am… if you don’t mind… why are you fighting with sir like this?”

Divya looks at him directly, still annoyed.“For his marriage. Convince your sir to get married.”

Pandey blinks, then lets out a small awkward laugh.

“Oh… but ma’am, sir is already married… to his job,” he jokes.

Divya stares at him, unamused.

Pandey immediately goes silent.

“Sorry… sorry, ma’am…”

Trying to recover, he smiles

nervously.“Actually… my wife watches your videos on YouTube while cooking. She really likes you. I didn’t know you were Rahul sir’s sister.”

Divya’s expression softens a little.

“Really?”

“Yes, ma’am!” he says quickly. “Would you… maybe talk to her on a video call? She’d be very happy.”

Divya gives a small smile.“Yeah… why not.”

Vaibhav watches this sudden shift, confused.“Divya…”

“Shh,” she cuts him off. “Let me talk to my fan.”

Pandey hurriedly takes out his phone and starts the call.

Just then—

From inside the cabin, Rahul’s loud voice echoes out—

“PANDEY! Where are the files I asked for?!”

Pandey freezes, panic flashing across his face.

“Sir coming, sir!” he says quickly, cutting the call mid-way and rushing inside.

Divya’s faint smile fades instantly.

She looks toward the cabin, her expression falling again disappointed, hurt… and still stubborn.

Vaibhav watches her quietly, knowing this isn’t ending anytime soon.

Inside his cabin, Rahul tries to focus on work but he can’t.

Every few seconds, his eyes drift toward the door.

He can still hear

Divya’s voice echoed in his head.

The thought of her sitting outside, stubborn and upset, makes him restless.

He clenches his jaw, runs a hand through his hair, and finally gives in.

He stands up abruptly and walks out.

The moment Divya sees him, she quickly gets up from the chair.

“Rahul—”

But Rahul doesn’t look at her. Instead, he turns to Vaibhav.

“Jiju… please,” he says, trying to control himself. “Take her home. Please. This is not the place for all this.”

Divya’s expression hardens instantly.

“Why are you talking to him?” she snaps. “Talk to me.”

Rahul shuts his eyes for a second, already frustrated.

“You will have to get married, Rahul,” Divya says firmly. “I don’t care what you say.”

Rahul’s patience breaks.

“I DON’T WANT TO GET MARRIED!”

he shouts, his voice echoing across the station. “Can’t you understand that or not?!”

Divya goes still.

The anger in his voice… the sharpness… it hits her harder than anything else.

Her eyes fill instantly. Her lips tremble.

“Rahul…” she tries to say, but her voice weakens.

The room seems to spin around her.

Before anyone can react to her body gives in.

She collapses.

“DIVYA!” Vaibhav shouts, rushing forward and catching her just in time.

Rahul freezes for a second then panic takes over.

“Didi!” he says, his voice shaking as he runs to her side.

All his anger disappears in an instant, replaced by fear.

He kneels beside her, his hands trembling.“Didi… open your eyes… please…”

Vaibhav looks at Divya, her body limp in his arms, panic written across his face.

Vaibhav’s voice cut through the tension, sharp and urgent. “Rahul, get the car. We need to take Divya to the hospital now.”

For a moment, everything froze. Then Rahul jolted into action. Before he could leave, Pandey stepped forward, concerned etched across his face. “Sir, wait I’ll come with you.”

Rahul shook his head firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument. “No. You stay here. Take care of the station.”

Pandey hesitated, then nodded, stepping back.

Rahul rushed out, his heartbeat echoing in his ears as he hurried to bring the car around.

Within moments, the vehicle screeched to a halt in front of them.

“Vaibhav! Jiju” he called out.

Without wasting a second, Vaibhav bent down and gently lifted Divya into his arms.

She felt fragile, almost weightless, as if she might slip away if he wasn’t careful enough.

His grip tightened instinctively, fear and determination battling within him.

He carried her swiftly to the car and carefully laid her down on the back seat before climbing beside her, cradling her close to his eyes never leaving her face, as if sheer will alone could keep her safe.

“Chalo… let’s go!” Vaibhav says firmly.

Rahul starts the engine, and the car speeds through the streets, each red light and honk amplifying the tension.

Vaibhav leans over her. “Divya… wake up, please. Divya, what’s happening? Look at me…”

But Divya doesn’t respond.

Her eyes remain closed her breathing is shallow.

Minutes stretch like hours.

Vaibhav continues talking softly, trying to keep her alert.“Stay with me… almost there… just a little more.”

Finally, the hospital looms ahead.

Rahul brakes sharply.

Vaibhav lifts Divya from the car with care and urgency, heading straight to the emergency entrance.

The staff immediately rushed over.

They take Divya to an examination room, while Rahul and Vaibhav pace outside, anxiety written all over their faces.

After what feels like an eternity, the doctor comes out.

His expression is calm, but his tone carries weight.

“She’s stable,” he says, pausing to let them breathe. “But we need to run a few tests to be sure.”

Vaibhav grips Rahul’s arm tightly. “Please… just tell us she’s okay.”

The doctor steps back inside, checking her vitals, monitoring her heartbeat, and watching her closely.

Every second feels infinite.

A doctor walked toward them, flipping through a file.

His eyes scanned the two men before he asked calmly, “Who is the husband of the patient?”

Vaibhav stepped forward immediately. “I am. Is there any problem?” His voice carried a mix of fear and desperation.

The doctor looked at him for a moment then a gentle smile appeared on his face.

“No problem,” he said softly. “Congratulations… your wife is pregnant.”

For a second, the world seemed to stop.

Vaibhav just stared at him, unable to process the words.

It felt unreal, like something he had only dreamed of but never dared to believe.

Beside him, Rahul’s face slowly broke into a wide smile.

His eyes filled with emotion. “Jiju…” he said softly, almost laughing through his happiness, “you’re going to be a father.”

Vaibhav looked at Rahul, then back at the doctor, still in disbelief. “Doctor… please check again. There’s no misunderstanding, right?”

The doctor shook his head reassuringly. “No misunderstanding. Your wife fainted because of weakness. You need to take good care of her. She’s about two weeks pregnant.”

The words finally settled into

Vaibhav’s heart.

A faint smile appeared on his face slow, trembling, but filled with something he hadn’t felt in a long time… hope.

“Can I see my wife?” he asked, his voice softer now.

“Yes, you can,” the doctor replied, “but she hasn’t regained consciousness yet.”

Vaibhav’s smile faded slightly. “Why hasn’t she woken up yet?”

“She will, very soon. Don’t worry,” the doctor assured him before walking away.

For a moment, Vaibhav stood there, absorbing everything.

Then suddenly, Rahul pulled him into a tight hug. “Congratulations, jiju.”

Vaibhav let out a small breath, finally smiling fully now. “Thank you…”

The door creaked open softly as Rahul and Vaibhav stepped into the hospital room.

The air was calm, almost too still, as if the world itself was waiting.

Divya lay on the bed, pale but peaceful.

Vaibhav’s eyes softened the moment he saw her.

A quiet smile touched his lips, filled with relief and something deeper something warm.

Rahul stood beside him, equally relieved, his gaze fixed on his sister.

For a few seconds, neither of them spoke.

Then, slowly… Divya’s fingers twitched.

Her eyelids fluttered, and with effort, she opened her eyes.

The bright light made her blink in confusion. She looked around, disoriented, trying to understand where she was.

Vaibhav immediately stepped closer, his voice gentle yet filled with concern. “Divya… are you okay?”

Divya turned her gaze toward him, her expression dazed. “Vaibhav…? Where am I…?”

“You’re in the hospital,” he replied softly.

“Hospital…? Why?” she asked, her voice weak, barely above a whisper.

Vaibhav’s smile grew, his eyes shining now. “Because… we’re pregnant.” He paused, letting the words settle. “It’s been two weeks… we didn’t even know. You fainted because of weakness.”

For a moment, Divya just stared at him.

Her breath hitched.

It felt unreal like she was trapped in a dream she didn’t want to wake up from.

Her eyes searched his face, as if trying to find the truth hidden behind his words.

And then…

Tears welled up.

Suddenly, she broke down, crying uncontrollably years of pain, longing, and silent prayers pouring out all at once.

Vaibhav quickly sat beside her, holding her gently. “Hey… hey, don’t cry,” he whispered, wiping her tears. “This is a happy moment… please…”

Rahul stepped closer too, his own eyes moist but smiling. “Didi… please don’t cry now. Be happy. Take care of yourself.”He tried to lighten the moment, adding softly, “And yesterday… you drank alcohol, right? Don’t do that again now.”

Divya gave a small, tearful nod, still unable to stop crying completely but this time, her tears carried happiness, hope… and a new beginning.

Vaibhav and Rahul brought Divya home from the hospital,

The front door opened, and the three of them stepped inside.

Vaibhav carefully supporting Divya by her shoulders, his grip gentle yet protective.

Rahul followed behind, carrying the medicines.

Bhavya, who had been sitting on the couch eating, looked up casually but the moment her eyes fell on them, her expression changed.

She immediately stood up. “What happened?”

Rahul couldn’t hide his smile anymore. “Didi is pregnant.”

For a second, Bhavya froze, her eyes widening in shock as she looked at Divya.

Divya met her gaze, a soft, shy smile forming on her lips.

“Congratulations,” Bhavya said, still a little stunned.

“Thank you…” Divya replied quietly.

Vaibhav guided Divya to the sofa and made her sit down carefully, as if she were something fragile. “From now on, you’re not doing any work. Understood?”

Divya nodded obediently, a small smile playing on her lips.

Without wasting time, Vaibhav walked to the kitchen.

A few minutes later, he returned with a plate of freshly cut fruits and sat beside her, picking up a piece and feeding her with his own hands.

Bhavya stood there, watching everything silently.

There was something about the way Vaibhav cared for Divya so effortlessly, so genuinely that made her pause.

A faint, almost unnoticed smile appeared on her face.

Vaibhav suddenly looked up and noticed Bhavya staring at him for quite a while.

He shifted slightly, feeling a bit uncomfortable under her gaze.

Divya noticed it too.

She looked at Vaibhav… then slowly turned toward Bhavya, her eyes narrowing slightly.“Why are you staring at my husband like that?” she said.

Bhavya blinked, confused. “What?”

Divya straightened a little, her tone turning possessive. “Why are you looking at my husband like that? He’s my husband. Only I can look at him like that.”

Rahul burst out laughing at her words.

Vaibhav sighed, slightly embarrassed. “Divya… what are you saying? Just be quiet.”

Bhavya crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. “I was looking at both of you.”

“Why?” Divya asked instantly.

Bhavya softened a little. “Because… he takes such good care of you. You’re lucky to have a husband like Vaibhav.”

Divya smiled proudly. “Ohh… yes, that’s true.”

Vaibhav shook his head slightly, continuing to cut fruits.

Then, casually, he said to bhavya, “But you called me a misogynist on the phone. So… am I not one anymore?”

Divya’s head snapped toward Bhavya. “What? You called my husband what? And when did you even call him?”

Bhavya looked a little awkward. “Sorry… I was drunk, that’s why I said that. You’re not like that. And Divya di… you’re the one who made me call him while I was drunk.”

Divya frowned, confused. “I made you call him?”

Bhavya just nodded slightly, then turned and walked toward her room without another word.

Rahul watched her go, thoughtful.

Behind him, Divya continued eating quietly, still confused. “But… when did I even say all that?”

Vaibhav chuckled softly, shaking his head as he handed her another piece of fruit.

Evening descended softly, wrapping the house in a quiet, fragile calm.

Divya stepped out of her room after resting, her movements slow but composed.

In the living area, Bhavya stood in her crisp police uniform, getting ready for her night duty her expression sharp, but her eyes carrying an unspoken fatigue.

In the kitchen, Rahul was helping Vaibhav cook dinner.

The two worked side by side, the clatter of utensils filling the silence.

Divya leaned against the doorframe, a faint smile touching her lips.

“Wow… my husband is cooking, and Rahul is helping too? That’s rare.”

Vaibhav glanced at her with a soft smile, while Rahul just shrugged lightly, trying to keep things normal.

Bhavya picked up her cap and turned to leave.

Before she could step out, Rahul called out, his voice gentle but firm,

“Bhavya, at least eat something before you go.”

She paused but didn’t turn around. “Not hungry,” she replied shortly.

Rahul sighed, already expecting that answer.

Without arguing, he quietly started packing food into a tiffin.“Fine… I’ll pack it. Eat later.”

Bhavya hesitated for a moment, then nodded slightly.

She wasn’t the kind to insist but she also wasn’t someone who easily accepted care. Still… from Rahul, she didn’t refuse.

Divya watched them silently the quiet understanding, between them.

And then

Vaibhav’s phone rang.

The sound cut through the calm like a sudden storm.

“Rahul, pass me my phone,” Vaibhav said, still focused on the stove.

Rahul walked over casually, but the moment his eyes fell on the screen, everything inside him froze.

Ishani.

His breath hitched.

His fingers tightened around the phone.

For a second, he just stood there, unmoving.

“Rahul?” Vaibhav’s voice pulled him back. “Give it to me.”

Rahul forced himself to respond. “Hmm…” he muttered, handing over the phone, though his hands felt cold.

Vaibhav glanced at the name, confused.“Ishani? Why is she calling?”

Divya and Bhavya both instinctively looked at Rahul but he avoided their gaze, turning back to the tiffin, though his movements had slowed.

Vaibhav answered the call.

“Hello, Ishani?”

A broken, trembling voice came from the other side. She was crying.“Bhaiya…”

Vaibhav’s expression changed instantly. “What happened? Ishani, why are you crying?”

Rahul’s hand stopped mid-air.

The sound of her crying hit him harder than anything else.

Divya stood up quickly and walked closer.“What happened?” she asked, anxiety rising in her voice.

Vaibhav’s tone turned serious. “Ishani, tell me clearly what happened?”

Through her sobs, Ishani spoke “Bhaiya… Abhay is no more. I’m coming to India with Ishaan… bringing his body.”

The words shattered the air.

Vaibhav’s hand went numb.

The phone slipped from his grip and fell to the floor.

For a moment, no one moved.

“Vaibhav!” Divya rushed forward, picking up the phone with trembling hands.“Ishani? What happened?”

Ishani repeated everything, her voice breaking again and again.

Divya’s face drained of color as she listened.“How did this happen? Where are you right now?” she asked, trying to stay composed.

“I’m reaching Delhi… in some time… with body. Then I’ll go to Banaras,” Ishani said weakly.

Divya glanced at Vaibhav, who had completely broken down, tears streaming down his face.

“We’re in Delhi too,” Divya said softly.

Vaibhav wiped his tears, his voice shaking as he spoke,“Where are you, Ishani?”

Divya put the call on the speaker.

“I’ll reach Delhi airport soon,” Ishani

said. “Will you come there?”

“Yes… we’ll be there,” Vaibhav replied immediately, his voice filled with grief.

“Okay…” Ishani whispered before the call disconnected.

Silence filled the room.heavy, suffocating, unbearable.

Rahul stood frozen, the tiffin box still in his hands, his mind unable to process what he had just heard.

Bhavya, still near the door in her uniform, didn’t move.

She wasn’t looking at Vaibhav.

She wasn’t looking at Divya.

Her eyes were fixed only on Rahul.

.....................................................................................

Fifteen days passed like a long, silent storm heavy, suffocating, leaving everything broken in its wake.

The rituals were over.

The fire had turned Abhay’s body to ashes, and the tehravi had been completed.

People had come, spoken soft words of sympathy, and left.

But grief… stayed.

Inside the vast halls of Thakur Haveli, silence had settled like something permanent.

Ishani was no longer the same.

She sat for hours without moving, her eyes hollow, her face drained of life.

Draped in a plain white saree, she looked less like a living person and more like a shadow of one.

Beside her, little Ishaan stayed close always close.

He didn’t understand what had happened, not fully.

People kept telling him gently.

“Papa has gone to God.”

And every time, he would look up with innocent confusion and say,

“Then I also want to go to God… I want to meet Papa.”

No one had the heart to answer that.

Not when he said it so simply.

Not when he didn’t understand that some distances… could never be crossed again.

Days went by like this.

And in all this time, Divya had stayed silent.

She had seen Ishani break.

She had seen her cry without tears, breathe without life but she hadn’t asked the one question that kept burning inside her.

How did this happen?

One afternoon, she finally found her answer waiting.

Ishani was alone in Abhay’s room.

The room still carried his presence his clothes, his scent, his untouched belongings.

It felt like he would walk at any moment.

But he never would.

Ishani sat on the bed, still, lifeless, staring into nothing.

Divya stepped in slowly.

“Ishani…” her voice was soft, hesitant.

No response.

She walked closer and sat beside her.

After a long silence, she finally asked,

“How did this happen? How did the accident occur?”

For a moment, Ishani didn’t react.

Then, slowly, her lips parted.

“His car… was found underwater,” she said, her voice empty. “Inside it… was Abhay.”

That was all.

No tears.

No expression.

Just a fact, spoken like it didn’t belong to her life.

Divya felt a chill run through her.

Something about it didn’t feel complete… but looking at Ishani, she couldn’t push further.

At the same time, in another part of the haveli.

Rajvardhan Thakur sat alone in his room.

Age had already bent his body, but today, grief had bent his soul.

A servant entered quietly and handed him a letter.

“Thakur saheb… this came from the post office.”

Rajvardhan frowned slightly and took it.

His hands trembled the moment he saw the handwriting.

Abhay.

His breath caught.

With shaking fingers, he opened the letter.

“Dadu… this is the last letter I’m writing to you…”

The words blurred instantly as tears filled his eyes.

Still, he forced himself to read.

“I have cheated on Ishani, Dadu… yes, your grandson turned out just like his father…”

Rajvardhan’s grip tightened.

“No…” he whispered, disbelief flooding his face.

But the letter continued.

“Ishani found out. She asked me for a divorce… but I refused. I love her too much to let her go. Yes, I made a mistake… a big one… but I can’t live without her.”

Tears rolled down Rajvardhan’s face as his hands shook uncontrollably.

“Ishani left me… she took Ishaan and started living separately. Every day, I went to her… I begged for forgiveness. I thought she would forgive me… but she never even looked at me.”

His vision blurred completely now.

“It’s been three months, Dadu… three months of trying to win her back. But every time I went there, Ishaan saw his mother crying…”

Rajvardhan pressed the letter to his chest for a second, as if bracing himself.

“Then one day… he said to me

‘Papa, you’re bad. You make Mumma cry. Mumma doesn’t want to meet you… and I don’t want to meet you either.’”

A broken sob escaped Rajvardhan’s lips.

“That day, I realized… I made the biggest mistake of my life. Ishani was already gone… and now Ishaan too.

They were my whole world, Dadu.”

His hands trembled harder.

“That’s why… I have decided to end my life. Forgive me, Dadu…”

Rajvardhan shut his eyes tightly, tears slipping out endlessly.

“Please take care of Ishani and Ishaan after I’m gone…”

The next lines made his heart stop.

“And Dadu… you know Rahul Pathak, right? I found out he never got married. He loves Ishani… a lot. If possible… bring them together. Maybe then… Ishani and Ishaan will forgive me.”

Rajvardhan’s breath became uneven.

“I’m leaving now. Take care of yourself.

By the time you read this… I’ll be gone.”

The letter slipped from his hands.

Silence filled the room but it wasn’t empty.

It was heavy with truth.

With guilt.

With a secret that could destroy what little was left.

And somewhere in the haveli, unaware of this truth.

Ishani sat in white, mourning a man…

whose death was not just an accident,

but a choice that would haunt them all forever.

The room was heavy with sorrow.

Rajvardhan Thakur sat on the edge of his chair, shoulders hunched, face buried in his hands, uncontrollable sobs shaking his body.

Footsteps echoed softly in the hall.

Deeksha entered quietly, sensing the weight in the air.“Nanu… what happened?” she asked gently, approaching him.

Rajvardhan lifted his tear-streaked face, eyes red and swollen. “Deeksha… Abhay… he… he didn’t have an accident,” he choked out. “He… he… committed suicide.”

Deeksha froze. “What? Who… who told you?”

Rajvardhan handed her the letter, trembling so much that it shook in her hands.

She read through it, her lips parting in disbelief, tears forming instantly.

Shock stole the breath from her.

“Why… why would he do all this?”

Deeksha remained silent, unable to answer. She could only feel the depth of his despair.

Rajvardhan looked at her, voice raw with grief. “And… and you knew… Rahul loves Ishani… you knew this, didn’t you?”

Deeksha shook her head slowly, tears streaming down her cheeks. “No, Nanu… I only just found out now.”

He buried his face in his hands again, shaking with anguish. “What has he done to us? I… I’m too old… how will I manage all this?”

Deeksha sat beside him, quiet and calm, though her own heart ached.

Rajvardhan’s tears didn’t stop.

Deeksha sat quietly beside him, her presence calm but heavy with sorrow.

He wiped his tears and turned to her again, voice hoarse. “And Mannat…

how is she?”

Deeksha’s voice broke. “Nanu… Mannat… she’s very sick.”

Rajvardhan froze. “What… what happened?”

Through her tears, Deeksha whispered, “Nanu… Mannat has blood cancer.”

Shock struck him like a physical blow. “Since when… why didn’t you tell me?”

Deeksha sobbed harder. “I thought I could manage… I thought I could handle it… but I couldn’t. Mannat… she’s so weak… and my bone marrow didn’t match either.”

Rajvardhan covered his face with his hands, grief and despair consuming him. “What is happening? What punishment is God giving our family?”

Deeksha reached for his hand, her own trembling. “Nanu… there’s still hope. If Deepak’s bone marrow matches, Mannat can survive. That’s why I came… I have to go to Delhi. I can’t stay here anymore.”

He nodded slowly, voice still heavy with sorrow. “Hmm… go. And if you need money, don’t hesitate to ask me.”

Deeksha’s tears continued, but she nodded firmly.

“Deepak is in Delhi… Rahul too?” Rajvardhan asked.

“Yes… both are there,” she said.

He looked at her seriously. “Then take Ishani with you.”

Deeksha hesitated. “But… Ishani Bhabhi… her condition… she can’t travel.”

Rajvardhan’s gaze was steady, commanding. “No, I’ll handle it. Take her with you. Prepare immediately.”

Deeksha wiped her tears, swallowing hard. “Alright… I’ll do it.”

Rajvardhan exhaled slowly, the weight of grief still heavy on his shoulders, but a small resolve glimmered in his eyes.

Rajvardhan Thakur’s steps echoed through the corridor as he hurried to Ishani’s room.

Something was wrong he could feel it in his bones.

When he entered, his eyes froze.

Ishani was on the floor, her face streaked with tears, her small frame trembling.

And in front of her stood Raj, his voice cruel and mocking.

“Now that my brother is gone… I’m the only one left in this house,” Raj said, smirking. “And you… you’re mine. I’m going to marry you whether you like it or not.”

Ishani scrambled back, panic in her eyes. “No! Leave me alone, Raj! Don’t touch me!”

Raj laughed, a cold, cruel sound that made Rajvardhan’s blood boil. “So proud… Bhabhi ji. Once we’re married, every inch of you… every secret part… will belong to me.”

That was the last straw.

Rajvardhan Thakur’s fury erupted.

He gripped his walking stick tightly and swung it with all his might, striking Raj hard across the back.

“Get out! Get out of here this instant—or I’ll kill you right now” Rajvardhan roared, his voice booming like thunder.

Raj’s eyes widened, panic flashing across his face as he saw his grandfather’s wrath.

Without thinking, he bolted, disappearing into the corridor, his footsteps fading into the halls.

Ishani on the floor, shaking and sobbing.

Rajvardhan immediately rushed to her side, kneeling beside her.

He handed her a glass of water and gently lifted it to her lips.

“Shh… shh… I’m here, beta,” he said softly, his hand resting protectively on her shoulder. “No one will ever hurt you again. I promise.”

Ishani sipped the water, letting her tears flow freely.

The warmth of his presence slowly steadied her trembling.

Rajvardhan’s eyes softened as he looked at her. “Ishani… staying here is not safe. Anand has decided… your marriage with Raj.”

Ishani’s gaze shot up at him, disbelief written across her face. “What… what do you mean, Dadu? My marriage…?”

“Yes,” he said firmly. “And that is why you must leave this place and Banaras too is not safe for you.”

“But Dadu… I want to go to my brother’s house. I want to be with my family…” she said, her voice breaking.

“No,” he said sharply, but gently. “You cannot stay here. Raj is a criminal. He terrorizes the city. He will not stop until he ruins you. I will not let that happen.”

Ishani’s shoulders slumped, and her sobs grew heavier. “Then… where should I go? I can’t just leave everyone behind…”

Rajvardhan cupped her face in his hands, holding her gaze. “Deeksha is going to Delhi. You must go with her… take Ishaan. Start a new life there. You have to think about your future now… your safety… your child’s life.”

Tears rolled down Ishani’s cheeks. “But… Dadu… leaving my family…?”

“This is the only way,” he said firmly, yet gently. “If you stay here, you will live in fear. You are educated. You can take a teaching position at any University of Delhi , build a career, and stand on your own feet. Forget Abhay… build a better life for yourself and Ishaan. That is your duty now.”

Hearing all of this, Ishani’s mind raced, a storm of fear and despair overtaking her.

Memories she had been trying to push away came flooding back. Raj he had been touching her inappropriately for the past fifteen days, and the thought made her shiver with disgust and anger.

Her mother-in-law, who should have protected her, seemed to despise Ishaan, calling him crazy, and showing nothing but cold indifference toward her.

Her father-in-law, the rigid Thakur of the haveli, never let her step outside.

Not even to visit her brother’s house.

If she didn’t leave this place, she realized with a sinking heart, she would remain trapped forever at the mercy of Raj, a man she despised and feared.

And she knew, with absolute clarity, that she could not let that happen.

She had to leave.

She had to get out of this house, this haveli, before it was too late.

Ishani nodded slowly, through tears. “Yes… Dadu… I will go. I… I will do it.”

Rajvardhan exhaled, a faint sense of relief washing over him. “Good. You’re strong, beta. You’ll manage. I promise, everything will be alright. You’re not alone.”

Deeksha called Divya and asked her to meet at a restaurant.

Divya arrived early and sat quietly at a corner table, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her glass as she waited.

A few moments later, Deeksha walked in.

Their eyes met and instantly, a soft smile spread across Divya’s face.

Deeksha smiled back and came to sit across from her.

“I couldn’t talk to you at all in Thakur Haveli,” Divya said gently, her voice carrying a hint of regret. “But here… I can finally talk to you properly.”

Deeksha nodded with a small smile. “Yes.”

Divya looked at her closely, as if trying to make up for all the lost years. “It’s been so many years since I last saw you, Deeksha. You’ve changed so much.”

Deeksha let out a soft breath. “You’ve changed too, didi. Time changes everything… even Banaras. It used to be so peaceful, and now it’s so crowded that sometimes it doesn’t even feel like our own city anymore.”

Divya smiled faintly. “That’s true.”

After a brief pause, Deeksha spoke again, a little hesitant this time. “Didi… I needed Deepak’s number.”

“Oh,” Divya said, pulling out her phone. She quickly found it and sent it to her. “Here.”

Deeksha checked her phone and smiled. “Thank you.”

“There’s no need to thank me,” Divya replied warmly. “Deepak and Rahul… they both miss you a lot.”

A soft smile appeared on Deeksha’s lips. “I’m going to Delhi… I’ll meet them there.”

Divya raised her eyebrows slightly. “Oh? And you didn’t tell me you got married?”

Deeksha shook her head. “No, didi. I didn’t.”

Divya frowned, confused. “Then… Mannat?”

Deeksha’s expression changed.

Her smile faded into something heavier, more fragile. “Mannat is my and Deepak’s daughter, didi.”

Divya froze. “What…?”

Deeksha nodded slowly. “Yes. Everyone keeps asking… and anyway, the truth will come out soon. So I’ve started telling people.”

She paused, gathering strength before continuing. “Actually… Mannat has blood cancer. My bone marrow doesn’t match… and now Deepak is my only hope. If his bone marrow matches… then Mannat can survive.”

The words hit Divya like a storm.

Her eyes widened in shock, and she immediately reached across the table, holding Deeksha’s hand tightly.

“I didn’t know any of this, Deeksha… I’m so sorry.”

Deeksha gave a faint, understanding smile. “It’s okay, didi. I understand.”

Divya squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Everything will be fine. You just have to stay strong.”

Deeksha nodded, her eyes reflecting both pain and hope. “That’s all I pray for… to God. And I’m taking Ishani didi to Delhi with me. She must have told you?”

“Yes,” Divya replied. “Vaibhav, Maa… everyone said there was no need to leave Banaras. But I felt she should go. She deserves a new beginning.”

“Yes, didi,” Deeksha agreed softly.

Then, as if remembering something important, Deeksha asked, “You’ve been to Delhi, right? Do you know any good places where we can stay?”

Divya immediately picked up her phone again, searched for an address, and showed it to her. “There’s a house available in this society. It’s a very good colony you both can live comfortably there.”

Deeksha looked at it and smiled with gratitude. “Thank you, didi.”

They talked for a little while longer, holding onto the comfort of each other’s presence.

Then Deeksha finally stood up, picking up her bag.“Okay… I should go now.”

Divya nodded softly. “Hmm.”

As Deeksha walked away, Divya kept watching her, her eyes filled with unspoken thoughts. A faint smile touched her lips.

Go, Ishani… go, Deeksha, she thought silently. Maybe Rahul and Deepak will finally find their life partners.

Her expression turned slightly somber for a moment.

Abhay had his chance… but he ruined everything by betraying Ishani. And now, he’s gone from her life forever.

Then, slowly, hope returned to her eyes.

Now my Rahul deserves happiness.

He deserves Ishani.

And Deepak… he deserves Deeksha.

That was why she had given Deeksha the address of the same society where they lived.

A quiet, knowing smile settled on her face.

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