A Symphony Of Silence And Storm

Bad uncle

After a triumphant argument with Shivay, Aadhya rejoined Ritvik, playfully resuming their games. Secretly, she reveled in putting the "bad uncle" in his place. Meanwhile, Annika secured the room keys and returned to the waiting area, a wide smile gracing her face.

"The wait is over, everyone!" she declared, holding up two keycards – one for the room and another for exclusive penthouse access. Excitement crackled in her voice. "Let's see our luxurious home for the next few days!"

Advik,  bounced with anticipation. "A penthouse? Like in the movies, Buddy?"

Annika confirmed with a nod. Aadhya, her earlier victory a forgotten memory, chimed in, "Let's go, I'm very tired." She then held up her arms for Annika to pick her up.

Chuckling at her daughter's antics, Annika scooped Aadhya into her arms. She instructed  Advik to gather their belongings so they wouldn't leave anything behind. United, they headed towards their penthouse suite

There were twelve penthouses in total, with six on each of the top two floors. Annika's family was on the very top floor, while Shivay's was on the floor below. Unaware they were just one floor apart, both Shivay and Annika arrived at their respective rooms.

Unbeknownst to Aadhya and Shivay, their argument was observed by another guest. Rudra, needing to deliver a file from his father to Shivay, had arrived at the hotel lobby. Seated on a couch, he strategically positioned himself to spot Shivay's entrance. He'd even initiated a video call with Dadi and Om, allowing them to join in virtually.

As Shivay entered, Rudra switched the camera to capture him. He intended to approach Shivay but was halted by the sight of a little girl throwing something at him. Entranced, Rudra watched the entire scene unfold. After Shivay and the girl left, Rudra returned to his seat, pondering the encounter. He turned the camera back to himself and addressed Dadi, "Dadi, did you see what I just saw?"

Dadi, still reeling from the encounter, responded, "Yes, puttar, I witnessed it too. I can't believe that little girl rendered Shivay speechless. It strangely reminds me of Annika."

Dadi continued, "If Annika were still here, her child would be around that age."

Rudra contemplated, "Dadi, do you think what Bhaiya said about Annika was true?"

Dadi's answer was laced with uncertainty, "I don't know, Rudra. Shivay's accusations were convincing, but my heart tells me she was innocent."

Interrupting Dadi explanation, Rudra's phone buzzed with a call from Shivay. Abruptly ending the conversation with Dadi and Om, Rudra announced, "Gotta go! Bhaiya's calling, wouldn't want to get chewed out for being late."

As Rudra entered Shivay's room, he found his brother talking to Khanna on a broken phone, requesting another one. A mischievous glint flickered in Rudra's eyes as he inquired, "Bhaiya, what happened to your phone?"

Shivay, his teeth gritted tight, fabricated a story, "Slipped out of my hand and broke. Give me the file you brought and get out of here."

Rudra, sensing his brother's anger, wisely handed over the file and retreated from the room. Poking a fuming Shivay wouldn't be a good idea.

Meanwhile, Annika, Ruhi, Advik, and Aadhya reached their penthouse. Stepping inside, they were all awestruck by its grandeur. Annika gently lowered Aadhya from her arms and, holding her hand, led the way into the living area, the others following close behind.

Annika's eyes scanned the luxurious space, taking in the plush furniture, expansive windows offering breathtaking views, and all the amenities that promised a comfortable and unforgettable stay. A satisfied smile touched her lips as she thought, "This is perfect for the next few days. A place for us to relax, unwind, and create beautiful memories."

Advik, with the excitement of a new discovery, darted towards one of the three bedrooms. "This is mine!" he declared, claiming his territory.

Aadhya, never to be outdone by her brother, saw his move and took off towards another room. "No way, this one's mine!" she shouted, staking her own claim.

Ruhi and Annika, watching their children's playful antics, couldn't help but laugh at their enthusiasm for the bedrooms.

Aadhya emerged from her room with a puzzled frown. "Mommy," she announced, "this house is too small! Where will you and Ruhi Mami sleep?"

Annika's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean, sweetheart?" she inquired gently.

Aadhya giggled. "Silly mommy! There's one room for me, one for Advik bhaiya, and one for Ritvik. All the rooms are taken! Where will you sleep? I'll have to ask Arnav Mamu for a bigger house."

The heartwarming scene continued as Ruhi and Annika doubled over with laughter at Aadhya's innocent proposition. Playing along, Annika asked, "Aadhya, if you don't mind, can I cuddle with you tonight? I just can't seem to sleep unless you're beside me."

Aadhya, after a moment of consideration, readily agreed, "Sure, Mumma, you can sleep with me." Then, turning to Ruhi, she added thoughtfully, "Ruhi Mami, you should sleep with Ritvik too. He's a little baby and can't sleep alone."

Ruhi, stifling a chuckle at Aadhya's endearing suggestion, replied, "You're absolutely right, Aadhya. Ritvik needs his mommy to sleep soundly. Let's all head to our rooms and get some rest."

Following Ruhi's lead, they all dispersed to their respective rooms. After freshening up and changing their clothes, Annika found herself lying comfortably on the bed with Aadhya nestled on her stomach. Aadhya, in her animated voice, recounted all the sights she had witnessed on their journey, from the airport to the hotel. Finally, she reached the encounter in the lobby.

"Mommy, beware of that bad uncle," Aadhya concluded her narration with a serious expression. "If he bothers you again, I'll beat him up!"

Annika offered a reassuring nod. Noticing Aadhya's growing drowsiness, she gently laid her daughter on her chest and hummed a lullaby, stroking her hair until sleep claimed Aadhya.

As silence descended, Annika's thoughts drifted back to the "bad uncle." Aadhya's description sent a shiver down her spine. It painted a clear picture of a single person – someone Annika desperately hoped to avoid, not just for herself, but for Aadhya's sake as well.