The Rathores in Therapy: A BCHD Epilogue

Chapter 17: A Difficult Dilemma

Last time: Sandeep smiled back at Kabir, his heart full of warmth. "You're welcome, Kabir," he said. "Remember that I'm always here for you, no matter what."

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February 11th, 2023, 10:00 pm, Rathore Bhavan, Jodhpur

Banni was sitting in front of the mirror, brushing her hair. She couldn't help but smile as she watched Kabir sing a lullaby for Kanha, lulling the toddler to sleep. She admired how he had taken to fatherhood and always seemed to know just what to say to calm their son down.

As she continued to brush her hair, Banni thought about all the great things that had happened that day. She finally decided to go to therapy, and Dr Shobha had been incredibly kind and understanding. She felt a weight lift off her shoulders as she talked about her past and present struggles.

And then there was the news about Yuvaan. Banni had gotten very excited when Dr Sandeep told them she could meet Yuvaan again someday. She couldn't wait to see Yuvaan again, the man she loved so much, the man she had believed was lost forever. She had so much to say to him, so much to share and resolve.

And then there was Kabir. She had been so worried about him. First, he had to be hospitalised because of his panic attack and subsequent switch. Then, instead of turning in early, he had to handle her breakdown. Finally, he was unable to sleep because of those darned nightmares. However, he seemed more at ease after today's session, especially after getting a few hours of sleep this afternoon.

Banni smiled as she remembered the rest of the day. After their nap, Kabir suggested they take Kanha to the park, and Banni readily agreed. The three of them had spent the afternoon playing on the swings, feeding the ducks, and building sandcastles in the sandpit. Banni had felt like a child again, carefree and happy.

She also remembered how Kabir had looked at her when she got ice cream on her nose and how their hands had brushed while building the sand tower. It wasn't technically a date, but it had felt like one. Banni felt a warmth spread through her at the memory, feeling grateful for this moment of happiness amidst all the chaos.

Banni's reverie was abruptly cut short by someone snapping their fingers before her. She was startled and looked up to see that it was Kabir, now looking at her with a raised eyebrow and an amused smirk. Banni flushed as she realised she was so lost in thought that she didn't even notice Kabir put Kanha down and approach her.

"What are you thinking about?" Kabir asked, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

Banni felt her cheeks heat up even more as she tried to come up with a response. "Uh, nothing really," she mumbled, looking down at her hands.

Kabir chuckled, clearly not convinced. "Come on, Banni Chow," he said, stepping closer to her. "You were clearly lost in thought. What were you thinking about?"

Banni bit her lip, feeling embarrassed. She didn't want to admit that she had been daydreaming about their day at the park.

"I was just thinking about...milk," she said lamely, trying to brush him off. "I'll go get some for you."

Banni tried to slip past Kabir, but he was too quick for her. He grabbed her by the arms and pulled her back, trapping her between himself and the dressing table. Banni's heart raced as she looked up at him, her cheeks flaming red.

"Kabir, what..." she tried to ask, but her words died in her throat as he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her closer. Banni could feel his breath on her face as he leaned in closer, his lips dangerously close to hers. She shivered as Kabir traced his other hand up her arm, making goosebumps appear on her skin. His fingers moved up to her shoulder, then her neck, and finally to her face, where he cupped her cheek. Banni felt slightly overwhelmed but leaned into his touch, shutting her eyes.