10

Ek baar or dekh kar azad karde mujhe, me aaj bhi teri pehli nazar ki qaid me hu

It's been one month since everything fell apart. Avni has been living at her parents' house, trying to rebuild her life piece by piece, but the weight of Rudra's absence is suffocating her. During the day, she smiles, laughs, and pretends like she's moved on for the sake of her family. But every night, when it quiets down, she falls apart, crying herself to sleep like a child who's lost their safe place.

Rudra, on the other hand, hasn't been the same. He's stopped reaching out to her the way he used. He's punishing himself, still blaming himself for what happened to Avni, believing it's his fault she had to endure so much. By keeping his distance, he convinces himself he's protecting her, though deep down he knows he's just hiding from the guilt.

Despite the distance, there's one connection they still have: Driti. Every few nights, Avni's phone rings, and she answers eagerly, hoping to hear Rudra's voice but it's never the same. Rudra calls, but he barely speaks. It's Driti who fills the silence, her sweet voice chatting with Avni like nothing's wrong. Avni listens, her heart breaking a little more each time, wondering why Rudra won't talk to her the way he used to.

Avni lay on her bed, her mind drifting back to the day she woke up in the hospital. The memories came flooding back as she remembered opening her eyes for the first time after the accident.

She had barely registered where she was before one name escaped her lips, a soft, desperate whisper.

"Rudra..."

Her voice was weak, but her heart raced, hoping he would be there beside her, holding her hand like he always did when she needed him the most. But as her eyes fluttered open, it wasn't Rudra she saw. Instead, his mother approached, her expression calm yet unreadable. "Rudra went home with Driti." Her words hit Avni like a punch to the gut. He wasn't there. Not by her side when she needed him the most.

Even in her weakened state, Avni couldn't stop herself. "Can you call him? Please..." she asked, her voice trembling with hope.

But the phone calls went unanswered. Each ring stretched the silence further, and with every passing second, her heart sank deeper. He didn't pick up.

Swallowing the lump in her throat, she fought back her tears. She didn't want to cry in front of his mother, but the pain of his absence felt unbearable. Rudra's mother, noticing her distress, spoke softly. "Stop crying, beta. It's not good for the baby."

Her words were meant to comfort, but they only reminded Avni of how alone she felt. The thought of the child she was carrying should have brought her joy, but right now, all she felt was heartache.

Moments later, her parents walked in. Her mother rushed to her side, wrapping her arms around her in a gentle hug.

"We'll take you home, beta. You'll be fine." Her mother's embrace was warm, but it didn't take away the cold emptiness Rudra had left behind.

Avni's eyes darted to Rudra's mother again, searching for any sign of reassurance, any explanation for why he wasn't here. But there was nothing. No comforting words, no promises that he would come soon. Just silence.

"I need to talk to him..." she pleaded, her voice cracking. But again, there was no response. No one said anything.

Avni tried to move, to sit up, to somehow find the strength to get to him herself, but the sharp pain shot through her body, the injuries she was still healing from. Her elbow and knee were both fractured, and though they were almost recovered now, at that moment in the hospital, she was helpless. The weight of her broken body matched the weight of her broken heart.

She lay back down, tears filling her eyes despite her best efforts to keep them at bay. The people around her may have been trying to protect her, but the one person she needed the most had already left.

Avni wiped her tears, got out of bed, and took a sip of water. As she set the glass down, memories of the nights she, Rudra, and Driti spent together filled her mind.

She remembered how Rudra would always place Driti on the other side of the bed, making sure she was comfortable and safe. Then, he would turn to Avni and pull her close, wrapping his arm around her tightly, like he never wanted to let her go. They would fall asleep like that, with Driti peacefully sleeping and Rudra's arm keeping her safe.

The thought of those nights made a small smile appear on her face. She could almost hear Driti's soft little giggles before she fell asleep, and Rudra's playful whispers in her ear.

Even though things were different, she allowed herself to remember the happiness they had shared, even if only for a moment.

She then started thinking, wondering if Rudra was even ready to have a baby. The doubt weighed on her mind as she gently placed her hand on her tummy. The thought of having Rudra by her side, supporting her through this, filled her with a longing she couldn't shake.

She imagined how happy she would be if he were here, holding her hand, taking care of her, and being excited for their baby. Just the thought of them going through this journey together, as a family, brought a bittersweet smile to her face. She wanted that happiness so badly, but now, with him so distant, it felt like a dream slipping further away.

Till today, Avni still couldn't understand why Rudra was pushing her away. Every time she tried to call him to ask why he was doing this, to make things right between them, he barely spoke to her. His words were few, his tone distant, and it broke her heart a little more each time.

She had told her parents that she wanted to go back to her in-laws and be with her husband. But her parents insisted she stay with them, saying she needed rest and time to recover. Deep down, Avni knew they were worried about her, but all she wanted was to be with Rudra and fix whatever had gone wrong.

With no other option, she stayed at her parents house, but her mind was constantly running around Rudra.

Avni pressed her face harder into the pillow, the muffled sound of her crying filling the quiet room. Her heart felt heavy, weighed down by questions that had no answers.

"Why, Rudra? Why are you doing this to me?" she whispered through her sobs. "I thought we were in this together... I need you now more than ever, but you're not here. Why are you pushing me away?"

She wiped her eyes, but the tears kept coming. Her mind raced, wondering if he was scared of the changes, of becoming a father again.

"Are you scared?" she asked aloud, as if hoping the empty room would give her some response. "All I want is to be with you. To be in your arms. That's my safe place, and I feel so lost without you."

She clutched her stomach, thinking of the baby growing inside her. "I want to be with you, to have you here, feeding me when I'm too tired to move. I want to wake up next to you, laugh with you, and drive you crazy with my pregnancy mood swings. I want to annoy you with all the weird cravings I'll have, and I want to watch Driti's face light up when I tell her she's going to be a big sister."

The thought of Driti brought a fresh wave of tears. "She deserves to know, to be part of this... we're supposed to be doing this together, Rudra. You, me, driti and our baby."

She could almost picture it, the three of them together, waiting for the baby, laughing at the little things, like they used to. But now, all she had were memories of what once was, and the harsh reality that he was pulling away from her.

"I want you, Rudra," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I just want you with me. I need you now more than ever..."

But all she got in return was silence, the same silence that had become her constant companion since the day he stopped talking to her. And as she lay there, crying into the pillow, all she could do was hold onto the hope that maybe, just maybe, he would come back to her before it was too late.

As Avni lay there, lost in her thoughts, she suddenly heard a soft knock on her door. It was her mother calling out to her. Quickly wiping away her tears, Avni shut her eyes, pretending to be asleep. Her mother entered the room quietly, noticing avni. With gentle hands, she adjusted the blanket, turned on the bedside lamp, and placed a kiss on Avni's forehead before leaving.

The moment her mother left, Avni slowly opened her eyes, and memories flooded back. It was exactly how she used to put Driti to sleep, kissing her forehead just like that. The ache in her heart deepened, and with a silent prayer, she begged for it all to stop, this pain, these memories because it was tearing her apart.

■

Rudra sat on the edge of the bed, his laptop balanced on his lap as he worked late into the night. The room was dimly lit, with only the soft glow from the bedside lamp illuminating his face. Beside him, Driti was sleeping peacefully, her tiny hand holding his finger. He glanced at her from time to time, taking comfort in her presence.

But suddenly, a soft whimper broke the silence. Driti stirred, her little body tensing as her whimpers turned into soft cries. Rudra quickly set his laptop aside, his heart immediately sinking at the sound of her crying. He leaned over and gently gathered her into his arms.

"Bacha, don't cry," he whispered, his voice soft and soothing, but her tears only grew louder. "Shh, it's okay. Papa's here."

He rocked her gently, his hand stroking her hair, but Driti wouldn't stop crying. Rudra's heart raced. She had never cried like this before. He wiped the tears streaming down her cheeks, feeling his own eyes welling up as he watched her sobbing uncontrollably.

"What's wrong, bacha? What do you want?" His voice cracked as he spoke, the helplessness hitting him harder than he expected.

Driti wiped her face with her tiny fists and hiccupped through her sobs, "Avi mamma."

The mention of Avni, hit Rudra like a punch to the gut. He hugged Driti tighter, feeling his chest tighten with emotion. "Bacha... avi mamma is sick you know na," he whispered, though his own words sounded hollow to him.

Driti, still sniffling, lifted her tiny hand and wiped the tears from Rudra's eyes. Her innocent gesture made his heart melt, and he couldn't help but smile through the pain.

He kissed her forehead tenderly, trying to keep his voice steady. "Okay, let's go get your favorite cookies, hmm?" He gently tapped her hand, coaxing her into a high five, which she gave weakly, her tears slowing down.

"That's my girl," Rudra said softly, a smile finally returning to his face. He stood up, carrying her in his arms as they made their way to the kitchen.

As they enjoyed the warm, cookies, Rudra smiled at Driti, who was giggling with delight after each bite.

Suddenly, he paused, glancing at the cookie jar on the counter. "Avni, tumhe cookies chahiye? Tumhara favorite flavor hai!" he called out playfully, holding the jar up as if she were there. But then, a heavy silence fell over the room.

(Avni, do you need cookies? It's your favorite flavor)

Reality hit him like a cold wave. Avni wasn't there; she hadn't been for a long time. Tears began to well up in his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away, hoping Driti wouldn't notice. He didn't want her to see him upset, especially after she had just calmed down.

Turning back to Driti, he forced a smile. "Hey, how about you sleep with your grandparents tonight? I've got some work to finish up," he suggested, trying to sound casual. Driti pouted at first, her little brows furrowing in disappointment.

"Pappa" she protested, her voice small.

"I know, sweetheart. But I really need to focus on this work," he replied gently, knowing that the responsibilities of his job sometimes took him away from her. After a moment, Driti raised her tiny thumb and nodded. "Okay, Papa," she said.

Once they finished the last of the cookies, Rudra took Driti into his arms, the warmth of her small body comforting against him. He walked towards his parents' room, the soft glow of the hallway light guiding his way.

He knocked softly on the door, and his mother opened it, concern etched on her face. "Kya hua, Rudra?" she asked, taking in the sight of her son holding Driti close.

(What's wrong rudra)

"Maa, can you please take care of Driti tonight? Main bohot thak gaya hoon aur bahut kaam he" he said, trying to keep his voice steady.

(I am so tired and I have so much work)

"Of course, beta" his mother replied, a warm smile spreading across her face as she reached out for Driti.

Rudra carefully placed Driti in his mother's arms. "Goodnight, bacha. I love you," he said, kissing her forehead softly.

"Goodnight, Papa!" Driti chirped, her earlier pout replaced with a smile as she nestled against her grandmother.

As Rudra stepped back, he watched his mother carry Driti into the room, tucking her under the covers with gentle hands. A wave of emotion washed over him as he turned to leave, heading back to his own room.

Alone, he let the tears fall freely now that he was out of sight. He missed Avni more than he could express, and the empty spaces in their home felt more pronounced in moments like this.

■

It was nearing midnight when Rohan woke up, his throat dry and in need of water. As he made his way through the darkened hallway, he passed by Rudra's room and heard soft murmurs drifting from inside.

Maybe he's working late again, Rohan thought, assuming Rudra was deep in concentration. He pushed the door open quietly and stepped inside, but what he saw made him halt in his tracks.

Rudra was in his bed without a shirt, hugging his pillow tightly, just as he used to hug Avni when they were together. The sight struck Rohan with a wave of laughter. But it was the strange moaning noises that broke through the memory and pulled Rohan back to reality.

"Rudra?" Rohan said softly, unsure of what to make of the scene. The moans were a mix of pleasure and despair, echoing in the quiet room. It was a vulnerable moment, one that Rohan had not expected to witness.

Rudra, lost in his own world, didn't respond immediately. His eyes were closed, and his expression was a mixture of longing and sadness.

Rohan couldn't hold back his laughter as he heard Rudra moaning softly, "Avni, go slow, don't stop but go slow. How about I hover upon you?".

The situation was too funny, and rohan struggled to keep a straight face. "Abey, uth ja pagal".

(Hey, get up, you crazy guy)

Just then, the lights turned on, and Rudra's parents walked in. As they heard Rudra's words, his mom looked away, trying not to laugh, while his dad burst out laughing.

"Yahan kya ho raha hai?" his father asked, clearly amused.

(What's going on here?)

Rudra, startled by their presence, quickly sat up straight. "Uh, nothing! I was just..." he stammered, trying to think of an excuse.

Rohan couldn't resist teasing him, saying, "Yeh ladka Kitna ashleel yeh". The comment made his dad laugh even harder.

(This boy is so shameless)

Rudra's cheeks turned red as he realized how ridiculous he must look. He quickly grabbed a shirt and threw it on, trying to act like nothing happened. "Sach mein, tumhara chehra dekhna chahiye tha! Mujhe laga humein Avni bhabhi ko bulana padega tumhe bachane ke liye!"

Rohan said making everyone brust into laughter.

(Seriously, you should have seen your face! I thought we were going to need to call Avni bhabhi to save you!)

Rudra shot Rohan a playful glare. "Very funny. It wasn't like that," he protested.

"Beta" his mom said with a smile, "Usse yaad karna theek hai. Lekin shayad jab hum saath hain, tab un feelings ko apne tak rakhna, theek hai?"

(It's okay to miss her. But maybe keep those feelings to yourself when we're around, okay?)

Rudra felt embarrassed and hide in face in pillow and yelled. "Will you all get out of my room and let me sleep."

After everyone left, he walked into the bathroom and splashed water on his face, trying to shake off the embarrassment. Once he felt somewhat refreshed, he went back to his room, picked up Avni's photo, and held it close to his heart.

"I wish things were different," he whispered, feeling the weight of sadness pressing down on him. "It's probably better if you stay away for now, so you can heal."

He glanced toward the cupboard in the corner, where he had stored baby toys and clothes he bought for their future child.

"Avni, you might think I sent you home, but I didn't. I'm building our new home here, for you, me, Driti, and our baby," he said softly, his voice filled with longing. "I miss you, Avni. Please forgive me."

Rudra's heart ached as he continued to speak to the photo. "Maine socha agar tum mere saath raho, toh shayad tum mujhe Sameera ki tarah chhod doge. Isliye maine apna faasla rakha. Lekin main ab aur isse seh nahi sakta."

(I thought if you stayed with me, you might leave me like Sameera did. That's why I tried to keep my distance. But I can't handle this anymore)

He lay back on the bed, staring at the ceiling, feeling lost without her. The silence of the room surrounded him, and he closed his eyes, hoping for a moment of peace. "Bas tumhe wapas chahata hoon, Avni. Mujhe tumhari zaroorat hai."

(I just want you back, Avni. I need you with me)

As he drifted off to sleep, the photo of avni resting on his chest. But for now, all he had was the hope that one day, they would be together again.

■

The next morning, Rudra woke early, he dressed carefully in a kurta and half coat, preparing for an important party meeting about the upcoming elections. After making sure he looked professional, he headed downstairs.

"Mom?" he called out, glancing around the quiet house.

His mother came out of the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dish towel. "Good morning, Rudra."

"Kya tumne Driti ko dekha?" rudra asked glancing around him.

(Have you seen driti?)

His mother's expression turned serious. "She didn't allow us to bring her out of her room. She hasn't eaten anything since this morning and keeps asking for Avni. Last night, even in her sleep, she kept calling out for avni."

Hearing this, Rudra's heart sank. The thought of Driti missing Avni so much made him feel helpless. "tumne mujhe pehle kyun nahi bataya? Mujhe usse dekhna hai."

(Why didn't you tell me sooner? I need to see her)

"She's upset, Rudra," his mother replied gently."

Rudra interrupted, determination rising in his voice. "Driti ko Avni ki zaroorat hai, aur mujhe bhi uski zaroorat hai. Hum isse aur nahi chhod sakte."

(Driti needs Avni, and I need her too. We can't let this go on any longer)

Without waiting for his mother's reply, he hurried up the stairs. As he reached the room, he pushed the door open. Driti was curled up in her bed, her small face pale and tear-streaked.

"Pappa!" she cried, looking up at him with watery eyes.

"Hey, sweetheart," he said softly, rushing to her side. He scooped her up into his arms, holding her close. "What's wrong, baby?"

"Avi mamma!" she sobbed, burying her face in his shoulder.

Rudra felt a deep ache in his heart. "I know, I know. I want her too. We are going to bring her back. I promise."

Driti looked up at him, her eyes wide with hope.

"Really, I promise," he assured her. "We can't be apart from her any longer. Let's get her home."

Just then, his mother appeared in the doorway. "Rudra, where are you going?"

"I'm going to bring Avni back home," he said.

His mother sighed, concern etched on her face. "Lekin, Rudra, agar usse zyada samay ki zaroorat hai toh?"

(But, Rudra, what if she needs more time?)

"She shouldn't have to suffer, and neither should Driti," he replied firmly. "Main apni beti ko kisi ke liye nahi roone dunga jo usse itna pyar karta hai. Main yeh dono ke liye kar raha hoon. Sabse zyada mujhe is waqt Avni ki zaroorat hai."

(I won't let my daughter cry for someone who loves her so much. I'm doing this for both of them. More than anything I need avni right now)

"Rudra..." his mother started, but he was already heading down the stairs with Driti nestled in his arms.

"Let's go, Driti," he said, feeling a surge of resolve. "We're going to get Avni back."

Driti nodded, her little hands gripping his shirt tightly.

■

After the drive, Rudra arrived at Avni's home. He glanced over at Driti, who was seated beside him in the passenger seat, her eyes wide with excitement.

"What are you going to do when you see Avni?" he asked, trying to gauge her feelings.

Driti beamed, her little face lighting up. "Huggies!" she exclaimed, her arms opening wide to demonstrate.

Rudra chuckled softly and lifted her into his arms, grinning. "Okay, lots of hugs then," he promised. With a deep breath, he stepped out of the car and walked to the front door, Driti securely nestled against him.

Standing in front of the door, he knocked firmly. Moments later, Avni's mother opened the door, her expression shifting from surprise to warmth. "Rudra! Driti! Come in, beta," she said, stepping aside to let them enter.

He walked into the living room, where Avni's father sat, looking equally surprised. Rudra set Driti down, and she hurried to sit on the couch, her eyes darting around in curiosity.

"What brings you here, Rudra?" Avni's father asked, his brow furrowed in concern.

"Main Avni ko ghar le jaane aaya hoon." Rudra replied, his voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach.

(I came to take Avni back home with us)

Avni's parents exchanged concerned glances, but before they could respond, Driti chimed in, her innocent voice breaking the tension. "Avi mamma!" she called out, looking up at Avni's parents hopeful eyes.

Both parents softened at the sight of the adorable girl, their hearts melting at her innocence. "I'll go get Avni," her mother said. She turned and hurried toward Avni's room, leaving Rudra and Driti seated in the living room.

A few moments later, Avni's mother went to Avni's room and saw Avni sleeping with a blanket on her. "Avni, beta! Rudra yahan tumhe wapas le jaane ke liye aaya hai!"

(Avni, beta! Rudra is here to take you back!)

At first, Avni thought it was a dream. The thought seemed too good to be true, but as she heard her mother's words, reality washed over her like a wave.

She rushed down the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest. When she reached the bottom, she saw Driti sitting on the couch, her eyes sparkling with joy. Rudra stood tall beside her, a warm smile on his face.

Driti clapped her hands with delight, her voice ringing out. "Avi mamma!"

Avni dropped to her knees, her arms opening wide, longing to embrace the little girl who had missed her so dearly. "Driti!" she cried, opening her arms wide and driti ran towards her.

"I missed you so much!" Avni said, squeezing Driti tightly.

"I miss you, Avi mamma!" Driti replied in her baby words, nuzzling into her embrace.

Avni paced back and forth in the living room, cradling Driti in her arms. The little girl babbled softly, but Avni's mind was elsewhere, consumed by thoughts of Rudra. Just then, her mother entered the room, concern etched across her face.

Avni stood in the hallway, holding Driti close to her chest. The little girl in her arms, her bright eyes darting around the unfamiliar surroundings. Avni felt a mix of frustration and anxiety as she caught Rudra's gaze from the corner of her eye. He was leaning against the wall, watching her intently as if waiting for her to say something.

"Avni, you need to talk to Rudra," her mother urged gently, crossing her arms.

Avni stopped in her tracks, her expression hardening. "Maa, mujhe usse baat nahi karni. Usse keh do yahan se chale jaye aur yeh bhi keh do ki wo mujhe na dekhe, na sooche."

(Mom, I don't want to talk to him. Tell him to go away from here and also tell him to not talk to me, not look at me even not think about me)

Avni stormed into her room, slamming the door behind her so hard that the entire house seemed to vibrate. The sound echoed down the hallway, causing her mother, to flinch. She quickly turned to Rudra.

"I'm so sorry about her behavior, Rudra," she said. "She's just... she's been through a lot these days."

Rudra, still standing near the doorway, smirked and sighed heavily. He straightened his back. "It's okay, aunty ji. I'll handle it. Just give me a moment."

Rudra walked towards Avni's door, pausing for a moment before knocking softly. "Avni, kya main andar aa sakta hoon?"

(Avni, can I come in?)

There was a pause before he heard a response, "Kya chahiya tumhe".

(What do you want?)

"I want to talk," he said, his voice steady. "Just open the door, please."

After a few seconds, the door creaked open, revealing Avni with her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Her eyes were red-rimmed, but there was a spark. "What do you want?" she repeated.

Rudra stepped into the room, closing the door behind him. He moved with a sudden intensity, pushing Avni gently against the wall. Before she could protest, his lips were on hers, capturing her in a kiss that was both surprising and overwhelming.

At first, Avni struggled against him, trying to pull away. "Rudra, wait-" she began, but her words faded as the kiss deepened.

As she stood there, caught in the moment, she found herself surrendering to him. Her body relaxed against the wall, and she closed her eyes, allowing the kiss to wash over her. It was as if a dam had broken, releasing all the feelings she had been holding back.

Rudra pulled away slightly, breathless, his forehead resting against hers. "You're so beautiful," he whispered, his voice husky. But just as she was about to respond, he hugged tightly.

In the middle of their embrace, Avni remembered Driti. She hesitated for a moment, pulling back just enough to speak. "Rudra, Driti is here."

He paused, looking into her eyes. "Let her see how her dad is feeling," he murmured in between kisses. "Let her see that her father loves her mother."

His words struck a chord within her. There was something tender about the way he spoke, as if he wanted to show Driti that even in this new and confusing situation, love could still exist.

Rudra leaned in again, brushing his lips against hers softly, then deepening the kiss once more. This time, Avni leaned into him, her heart racing as she found herself lost in the moment.

As they finally broke the kiss, Rudra looked softly into Avni's eyes, searching for a hint of what she was feeling. The moment hung in the air, charged with unspoken words.

Avni, feeling a mix of frustration started to hit his chest. "You can't just kiss me like that and expect everything to be fine!" she said.

But Rudra didn't flinch. He remained steady, his gaze locked onto hers. Avni continued to hit him, each tap fueled by the emotions inside her, but he didn't move away. Instead, he kept looking into her eyes.

After a moment, she grew tired of her playful assault and stopped, breathing heavily as she tried to process what had just happened. She wiped her tears and looked at him. "Tumne woh baatein kyun kahi? Tumne mujhe aisa mehsoos karaya jaise main tumhara nahi hoon!"

(Why did you send me away earlier? Why did you say those things? You made me feel like I didn't belong to you!)

In an instant, she hugged him tightly, burying her face in his chest. Rudra wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as she cried. He felt her tears soak through his shirt, and it tugged at his heart. "I'm so sorry, Avni," he whispered, his voice sincere and full of regret. "Main tumhe hurt karna nahi chahta tha. Sach mein, mujhe nahi pata kyun maine woh kaha."

(I didn't mean to hurt you. I honestly don't know why I said that)

He gently made her sit on the edge of the bed, then took her hands in his, holding them closer. "I just wanted to keep you safe," he continued, looking deeply into her eyes. "Tumhe nahi pata mere duniya mein rehna kaisa hota hai. Jo khatra hai, jo pressure hai, yeh asaan nahi hai. Maine socha agar main tumhe door rakhunga, toh main tumhe is sabse bachaa sakta hoon. Lekin ab mujhe samajh aata hai ki maine sirf tumhe dard diya, aur apne aapko bhi."

(You don't know what it's like to be in my world. The danger, the pressure, it's not easy. I thought if I pushed you away, I could protect you from all of this. But I see now that I only hurt you, hurt myself)

Avni wiped her tears and looked at him. "Away from you is not my safe place, Rudra," she said. "In your arms is my safe place. I don't want to be separated from you just because you think it's best for me. I want to be here, with you, even in the chaos."

(Tumse door hona mera safe place nahi hai. Tumhari baahon mein mera safe place hai. Main tumse alag nahi hona chahti sirf isliye kyunki tumhe lagta hai ki yeh mere liye behtar hai. Main yahaan, tumhare saath rehna chahti hoon, chahe kitna bhi chaos kyun na ho)

Her words struck him deeply, and for a moment, he was speechless. He had underestimated her strength and determination. "You don't know what you're asking for," he replied, his voice heavy with concern.

"Maybe not," she admitted, "but I do know that I feel safe when I'm with you. I don't want to run away. I want to face whatever comes, together. I am your Sita and you are my ram, together we will face whatever comes."

(Shayad nahi, lekin mujhe yeh pata hai ki main tumhare saath rehkar surakshit mehsoos karti hoon. Main bhaag nahi jaana chahti. Main jo bhi samna karna hai, tumhare saath milkar karna chahti hoon. Main tumhari Sita hoon aur tum mere Ram ho, saath milkar hum jo bhi aayega, uska samna karenge)

Rudra felt a warmth spread through him at her words. He hadn't expected from her, and it made him realize that he didn't have to bear the weight of his world alone. "I promise to do everything to keep you safe," he said.

Avni nodded, her heart swelling with affection for him. "I will. But just know that I'm here for you too. You don't have to hide things from me. I want to be part of your life again "

His heart swelled with happiness as he pulled Avni into a tight embrace, feeling the warmth of her body against his. His grip was firm, protective, and filled with love. "I'm so glad you're here," he murmured.

Avni gently pulled back, her eyes wide with concern. "Rudra, be a little slow. It may hurt the baby," she said, glancing down at her belly.

He immediately released her, looking down with a mix of awe and love. Placing a careful hand on her tummy, he leaned in and kissed her forehead softly. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be too tight," he said. "I just... I'm so happy."

Rudra's gaze shifted to the doorway, where Driti stood, her big eyes watching them with curiosity. "Driti, come here baby!" he called.

With tiny, careful steps, Driti approached, her little feet padding softly on the floor. Rudra lifted her onto his lap, cradling her gently as she settled in. He took her small hands in his and placed them on Avni's tummy, looking down with a proud smile. "Bacha, there's a baby in there,".

Driti tilted her head, her brows furrowing in confusion. "Baby?" she asked.

Avni smiled down at driti, taking her hands in her own. "Yes, sweetheart. Mamma has a baby here, and you're going to be a sister soon," she explained.

For a moment, Driti seemed to process the information. Then, without hesitation, she leaned down and pressed a sweet kiss on Avni's tummy. "Baby!" she exclaimed, her face lighting up with delight. Then, wrapping her tiny arms around Avni, she hugged her tightly.

"Yes, baby. You're going to be such a wonderful big sister," she said, holding Driti close.

Rudra watched the two of them, his heart overflowing with emotion. Seeing Avni and Driti together like this made everything feel right. "We're going to be a family," he said, his voice thick with feeling.

Driti looked up at him, her expression full of innocence and wonder. "Family" she repeated, trying to grasp the meaning.

"Yes, darling," he affirmed, smiling down at her. "A family. Just us and so much love."

Just then rudra turned to Avni and said, "You should sit for a while. I'll pack your bag so we can go to my house."

Avni nodded, happy to take a moment to relax. While she sat down, Rudra started gathering her things. He picked out clothes, and a few other things, making sure he got everything she need.

As he worked, Avni watched him, it was clear he wanted to make her comfortable and safe, which made her love him even more.

After about an hour, Rudra finished packing and came back to Avni, who was stretching her legs. "All set," he said, lifting the bag easily. He glanced around her room one last time before they left.

When they reached her parents, Rudra took a deep breath. "I promise I'll take care of Avni and our baby better than I take care of myself," he said earnestly. "She'll be safe and happy with me."

(Vaada karta hoon ki main Avni aur apna bacha ka dhyan apne se bhi achhe se rakhunga. Wo mere saath surakshit aur khush rahegi)

Avni's parents looked at each other, a mix of concern and trust on their faces. "Just make sure you look after each other," her mother said softly, stepping forward to give Avni a tight hug.

"Take care of yourself, Avni," her father added.

After saying their goodbyes, Rudra and Avni walked to his car. They climbed in, and Rudra glanced at avni. She smiled back at him.

With that, Rudra started the car, and they drove away from her old life, heading to his house.

To be continued

Part two of final chapter will be out soon and for that do vote. Comment. And let me know your review.

Virtual hugs to you all.