Dons of Punjab: Fluke of Reality✔️

chapter 9

a few months later

Prabhneet Kaur

The moment I heard the news, my heart swelled with joy—my older sister, Gunu didi, was expecting a baby! I was going to be a massi again, and I couldn't have been happier. The thought of holding my little niece or nephew in my arms, spoiling them with love, and watching my sister step into motherhood filled me with excitement.

What made this even more special was my brother-in-law's thoughtful gesture. He had made all the arrangements for my return to New York, ensuring I wouldn't miss the baby shower. It was an act of kindness that touched my heart, reminding me how deeply he valued family. I couldn't wait to be back home, surrounded by the people I loved, celebrating such a beautiful occasion.

But amid all the excitement, there was a small cloud hanging over my heart. Aman.

We hadn't spoken in months, not since our falling out. It had been difficult—pretending I was fine, pretending I didn't miss him. But I had made up my mind. This trip wasn't about him. It was about my sister, my family, and the new life we were about to welcome. Whatever had happened between us, I refused to let it ruin this moment.

The day I arrived home, I couldn't contain my excitement. As soon as I stepped into the house, I tiptoed towards my sister's room, my heart pounding with anticipation. A mischievous grin spread across my face as I spotted her standing by the window, humming softly, completely unaware of my presence.

Taking a deep breath, I lunged forward.

"BOO!"

Gunu didi let out a shriek, spinning around so fast that she nearly dropped the scarf she was holding. Her eyes widened in shock before realization dawned, and then—

"PRABH!" she screamed, rushing forward to hug me.

I burst into laughter, wrapping my arms around her as she squeezed me tightly.

"You really think I would miss your baby shower?" I teased, pulling back to look at her glowing face.

She shook her head, eyes glistening. "I hoped you'd come, but I didn't expect you to just scare me half to death!"

"Had to make a grand entrance," I said with a wink.

She laughed, wiping away a tear. "I've missed you so much, Prabh."

"I missed you more, didi," I whispered, my voice filled with love.

Her hands instinctively rested on her belly, and I looked down, feeling a rush of emotions. "How's the little one treating you?" I asked, kneeling slightly to place a gentle hand over her bump.

She chuckled. "Your niece or nephew is already a troublemaker. Kicking all night, making me crave weird foods...but I wouldn't have it any other way."

My heart warmed. "Well, this baby is going to be spoiled rotten by their massi, I can promise you that!"

Gunu didi rolled her eyes playfully. "As if I expected anything less!"

As the afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the yard, guests began arriving, filling the space with warmth and laughter. The decorations were stunning—gold and white drapes fluttered in the breeze, fairy lights twinkled above, and a long table was beautifully set with an array of sweets and gifts.

Standing next to my mother and sisters, I carefully placed a vibrant red wedding chunni over my sister's head, marking the start of the rasam ceremony. It was a moment of tradition, love, and blessings, a celebration of the new journey she was about to embark on.