Chapter 32: 28. Birthday Bomb

The grand birthday party was in full swing. The house was alive with lights, music, and chatter.

Aarvi, in her midnight blue gown, moved through the crowd gracefully, exchanging pleasantries and warm smiles with everyone. Darshil, standing close by, couldn’t take his eyes off her. The decorations were beautiful, with twinkling fairy lights casting a magical glow over the party.

As she and Darshil moved around the hall, her heart began to swell with happiness. Darshil had truly outdone himself, and for the first time, Aarvi felt herself enjoying his presence beside her.

As the night progressed, guests approached Aarvi to wish her a happy birthday, and she felt truly loved and cherished. Darshil stood beside her, occasionally whispering something teasing or sweet in her ear, making her laugh softly. After some more minutes the butler approached and bowed.

Madam, there are guests waiting for you at the entrance. Butler said

Aarvi looked at Darshil with curiosity, wondering who it could be. As they made their way toward the grand entrance, Aarvi’s heart suddenly raced when she saw the familiar figures stepping inside.

Her parents.

Her mother, Anjali ji, and her father stood there, smiling, but with a hint of nervousness in their eyes. Beside them was her elder sister, Siya.

Aarvi hadn’t seen her parents since the day of her marriage, and a wave of emotions rushed through her.

Aarvi… my dear…. Anjali ji said and before Aarvi could say anything, her mother rushed forward, pulling her into a tight embrace. Aarvi felt a lump form in her throat as her arms wrapped around her mother, her heart swelling with a mixture of joy and nostalgia.

Maa… Papa… I missed you so much. Aarvi said

Vivek ji stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.

We’ve missed you too, beta. Happy Birthday. Vivek ji said

Darshil stood by, watching the reunion with a calm smile, his eyes catching Aarvi’s emotional reaction. He stepped forward, extending a polite greeting to her parents.

It’s an honor to have you here. Aarvi has missed you all. Darshil said

Aarvi glanced at Darshil, feeling something shift between them as he spoke.

Siya, meanwhile, rushed to Aarvi and hugged her tightly, her playful energy lighting up the mood.

Happy birthday, my cutie pi! Looks like I’m late to the party, but I’m here now! Siya said

Aarvi laughed, wiping her tears as the emotional moment gave way to joy. She hugged Siya back, feeling a sense of completion with her family around.

They all entered the party hall and met Darshil's family. Siya and Aarvi on the other side enjoy happily, tasting soft drinks and snacks.

As the evening progressed, the music took a romantic turn, and guests began to couple up for the dance. Darshil turned to Aarvi, his hand extended toward her.

Would the birthday girl honor me with a dance? Darshil asked

Aarvi hesitated for a moment, the playful smile on her face fading slightly. She wasn’t sure if she was ready for this—dancing with Darshil had always felt awkward, but tonight, something felt different.

Alright. Aarvi said softly.

She placed her hand in his, and Darshil gently guided her to the center of the dance floor. He pulled her close, placing one hand on her waist and holding her hand with the other. As the music swelled, he pulled her close, his hands resting softly at her waist. Aarvi felt a warmth rise in her chest, her heart racing as they moved together to the rhythm of the song.

You look beautiful tonight, Hazel. Darshil said which makes Aarvi blush.

Darshil’s gaze was intense, filled with admiration, but tonight, it didn’t scare her. It made her feel seen—truly seen for the first time.

At the edge of the dance floor, Shiv had been watching Poorva from a distance, debating whether to approach her. His heart raced as he saw her standing there, looking beautiful in a pastel gown, completely unaware of the effect she had on him.

Summoning his courage, Shiv stepped forward, extending his hand toward her.

Care to dance, Poorva? Shiv asked with a smile.

Poorva, slightly taken aback, glanced up at him. She wasn’t used to being asked to dance, especially by someone who made her feel… strange.

Uh.... Sure. Poorva said

As Shiv led her to the dance floor, Poorva couldn’t help but notice the butterflies in her stomach. His hand was warm against hers, and when he pulled her close, she felt an unexpected jolt of electricity pass through her.

They danced in silence for a few moments, but the air between them was charged with unspoken tension. Poorva could feel her heart pounding, her mind racing with thoughts she couldn’t quite grasp.

You’re quiet tonight. Is everything okay? Shiv asked

I’m fine… just… surprised. Poorva said

Shiv’s gaze softened, and he pulled her a little closer, his voice gentle.

Surprised? By what? Shiv asked

Poorva’s cheeks flushed, and she looked away, unable to answer. She didn’t know how to explain the fluttering in her chest, the way her heart skipped a beat every time she was near him.

Just the things going on. Poorva said

They continued to dance, their bodies swaying in perfect sync, and Poorva felt herself slowly relaxing into his arms.

As the song came to an end, Darshil pulled Aarvi to a stop in the center of the room. The guests around them clapped politely for both the couples, but Darshil’s attention was entirely on Aarvi.

He took a deep breath, his eyes locking with hers. This was the moment he had been waiting for, the moment to tell her what had been in his heart for so long.

Aarvi, I need to say something now, in front of everyone, I want you to know. Darshil said

Aarvi’s heart skipped a beat as she stared up at him, her breath catching in her throat.

Darshil walked to the center of the room and took the microphone, getting everyone's attention.

He held Aarvi's gaze, his heart pounding with a mix of nervousness and determination. He spoke into the microphone, his voice loud and clear for everyone to hear.

Excuse me, everyone, I have something important to say. I want to make a confession, a confession that's long overdue. Darshil said

Aarvi looked at him in confusion.

Darshil took a deep breath, steeling himself and preparing to lay his heart bare in front of everyone. He continued, his eyes never leaving hers.

For a long time now, I've been struggling to make my wife beleive on my feelings. But today, I have to confess something, and I have to do it here, in front of everyone because you deserve nothing less, my Hazel. Darshil said

What is he doing? Aarvi mumbles

Darshil heard her murmur and a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He spoke louder, making sure everyone could hear him.

I need to confess my feelings to her, the woman who has captured my heart, the woman who has been by my side through everything. I can no longer keep her doubting my love. I need to say it out loud... I love you, Hazel. I love you with all my heart. Darshil said

A hush fell over the room as everyone turned to watch them. Aarvi’s parents, Darshil’s family, and their friends all stood in stunned silence, waiting for her response.

Darshil you have..... Aarvi said but Darshil interupts.

He walks towards her. He held her gaze, his expression serious and earnest.

I know I've said it before, Hazel. But this time it's different. I'm saying it in front of everyone, in front of our family and friends. I'm declaring it out loud, so there is no sign of doubt about whom Darshil Rajvanshi belongs to. I am completely owned by you forever, even after I die. I love you, Hazel. I love you more than anything in the world. Darshil said with a smile.

Aarvi’s mind was spinning. She had never expected this—Darshil, confessing his love so openly, so boldly. And yet, as she looked into his eyes, she could see the truth in his words.

Her lips parted, her hand slowly reaching for his, but before she could speak, a wave of dizziness washed over her. The room tilted, and everything went black.

Darshil.....Aarvi said and then, she collapsed.

Darshil’s eyes widened in shock as Aarvi’s body went limp in his arms. He caught her just before she hit the ground, his heart racing in panic.

Hazel.... Darshil shouted.

The room erupted in chaos as everyone rushed forward, concern and fear etched on their faces. Nandini and Sakshi were the first to reach them, their voices trembling with worry.

What happened? Is she alright? Nandini ji asked

Aarvi, wake up! Anjali ji said

Darshil gently cradled Aarvi in his arms, his heart pounding in his chest. He couldn’t see her unconscious without looking into her eyes.

Hazel, please… open your eyes. Darshil said

Siya suddenly rushed.

Darshil, take Aarvi to the room. Let me check her. Siya said.

Aarvi lay unconscious in Darshil's arms as he carried her to their room. His heart was pounding, torn between worry and confusion. As soon as they entered, Siya followed closely behind, holding her medical kit.

Lay her on the bed. Let me check her vitals. Siya said

Darshil carefully placed Aarvi on the bed, his eyes never leaving her pale face. Siya quickly got to work, checking her pulse, heartbeat, and temperature. After a few tense moments, she turned toward Darshil and Nandini, who had just entered.

Her pulse is normal. There’s nothing life-threatening. But… just to be safe, I’ll give her an injection to stabilize her condition. Siya said

Darshil nodded, his expression filled with worry.

Do whatever is necessary, Siya. Darshil said

Siya administered the injection and then drew a blood sample for testing. There was a strange silence in the room as everyone anxiously waited for some explanation for Aarvi’s sudden collapse.

Darshil sat beside Aarvi, his heart was beating faster and faster looking at her. He was holding her hand, trying to wake her up but Aarvi was still unconscious.

Darshil calm down. Siya will get the reports in sometimes, and we will get to know what happened to Aarvi. Nandini ji said

I can't calm down when she is lying unconscious infront of me. She needs to wake up, I need her. Darshil said and squeezed her hand softly.

Aarvi starts to wake uo slowly.

Darshil watched anxiously as she slowly stirred, her eyelids fluttering open gradually. His heart filled with relief as he saw her regaining consciousness.

He held her tight, his voice filled with worry and concern.

Hazel , can you hear me? Are you okay? What just happened? Darshil asked

I don't know..... I just felt..... dizzy and then..... everything was blank. Aarvi said

After taking the blood sample to her temporary lab setup, Siya returned about half an hour later, her face a mixture of confusion and disbelief.

I think… we have an unexpected answer. Siya said

Darshil, Nandini, and Poorva looked at Siya with anxious expressions.

What is it, Siya? Is she alright? Darshil asked

Siya hesitated for a moment before stepping closer to Darshil, lowering her voice slightly.

Aarvi is..... pregnant. Siya said looking at Darshil

The air in the room shifted instantly. Aarvi and Darshil’s eyes widened in disbelief, and Nandini gasped in surprise. Poorva brought her hands to her mouth in shock.

What… what did you just say? Darshil asked

She’s pregnant. The blood test confirmed it. Poorva said

Pregnant? How…? Aarvi whispers.

Her eyes darted toward Darshil, and she suddenly felt an overwhelming rush of confusion, dread, and suspicion. She tried to sit up, but the weight of the news kept her frozen. She got the glimpse of the night she was intoxicated, she remembers herself attempting to kiss Darshil.

It means Darshil lied to me? He took advantage of me when..... Aarvi thinks

Darshil was just as shocked. He had been obsessed with Aarvi, yes, but they had never consummated their marriage. He couldn’t understand how this could be possible.

I never touched Hazel so how can she get pregnant? But the reports can't be wrong, It means she slept with.... Darshil said

Both of them were looking at each other, surprised and angry.

Nandini ji and Anjali ji hugged each other out of extreme happiness.

Congratulations Anjali..... Nandini ji said

You too. Anjali ji said

Nandini ji sat infront of Aarvi and kissed on her forehead.

May god bless you Aarvi beta. We were giving you gifts for your birthday and you gave us the most beautiful gift in the world. Nandini ji said

Congratulations Darshil, you're going to be a father soon. Vivek ji said.

Darshil smiles, meanwhile Aarvi glared at him from the corners of her eyes.

Everyone congratulated Darshil and Aarvi and each other.

I think Aarvi needs some rest, why don't we leave her alone for sometimes? Siya said.

Yes, lets go out. Darshil you stay with Aarvi. Nandini ji said and all of them left the room.

Darshil closed the door behind and walked towards the bed, his expressions darkening. On the other side, Aarvi after a long time had a the same hatred on her face as she stood up.

Did… did you take advantage of me, Darshil? When I was intoxicated? Aarvi asked

Darshil’s head snapped toward her, his eyes blazing with a mixture of disbelief and hurt. His jaw clenched, and for a moment, he couldn’t believe what she was insinuating.

What? How could you even think that, Aarvi? I would never… Darshil said angrily

Then how do you explain this? We’ve never… but I’m pregnant! How else could this have happened? Aarvi said, her eyes teary.

The hurt in her voice was palpable. She was torn between shock and a gnawing suspicion that Darshil had betrayed her trust, but deep down, she knew it didn’t add up.

And how do you expect me to explain it, Aarvi? I’ve respected every boundary you set, even though we’re married. I would never take advantage of you, not in a state like that. Darshil said

He turned away, trying to control the storm of emotions raging within him. His voice dropped, cold and distant.

But I am pregnant? Aarvi questions

Yes, the real question is… who were you with when I wasn’t around? Darshil asked

Aarvi’s face paled as Darshil’s words hit her like a slap. Her eyes widened, and her breath caught in her throat. He was accusing her of infidelity.

How dare you?! Do you really think I would betray you like that? I may not love you, Darshil, but I would never stoop so low! Aarvi said

Then how do you explain this pregnancy? Because as far as I know, it’s impossible unless…. Darshil said

Darshil..... Aarvi yelled

AARVI!!! Darshil said in anger, for the first time he called her by her name. He steps closer and grabbed her shoulder and pulled her closer.

You can't do this to me. I know you hated me, you wanted to take revenge of whaf I did with you, but this way? You wanted to kill me, I agreed to that too, but this way? I gave you my gun to shoot me, fir aise tadpa kar marne ki kya zaroorat thi? Darshil asked

I can’t believe you’d think so little of me, Darshil! Aarvi shouted, tears rolling down her cheeks.

Darshil clenched his fists, his jaw tight.

And I can’t believe you’d accuse me of violating your trust. We’re both in this together, Aarvi. But I have to say  you are amazing at taking revenge.

Just tell me who is that bastard??? Darshil said

Darshil, you're getting me wrong. I never cheated on you. I agree I never let you touch me but I was still pure until..... you snatched my innocence that night. Aarvi said

Me? So you're blaming me? Who were you with while I was in Italy? Who the hell did you fulfill your desire with? Darshil asked in a loud voice.

Aarvi grabs his collar and pulled him close.

Shut up..... I hate you Darshil..... Even more than ever. Aarvi said in an angry voice

Darshil held both her hands and got her to release his collar.

And how lucky am I? I am still not able to hate you. But let me tell you one thing..... I Hate myself for loving you. I am disgusted by my choice. I wish, I never met you. And as far the father of this child...... I'll make him regret touching you. I'll kill him in front of you. Darshil said and then he turned on his heel and stormed out of the room, leaving Aarvi standing there, her heart shattered.

She sat on the bed and burst into tears. She couldn't control her tears anymore, they were flooding like it's never gonna stop.

*********

So guys, that's all for today.

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As English is not my first language so there can be some grammatical mistakes, I just request to please ignore it.

Thankyou🥀