CHAPTER 1

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The early morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the small, bustling kitchen. The aroma of fresh parathas and chai wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of clinking utensils and the rhythmic hum of an old Bollywood song playing on the radio.

Arjun had always been an early riser. This morning was no different as he completed his routine with a brisk walk through the nearby park. The cool morning breeze and the chirping of birds provided a perfect start to his day. After returning home, he went straight to his room, freshened up, and spent a little time pampering himself, a rare luxury he cherished. He wore a simple grey T-shirt and black track pants, perfect for his morning routine.

Feeling rejuvenated, Arjun made his way to Vikram and Kabir's bedroom to wake them up for breakfast. As he entered the room, a smile spread across his face at the sight of his younger brothers peacefully sleeping. Kabir was sprawled across the bed, hugging a pillow, while Vikram lay on his back, his expression serene and calm. Vikram was in his favorite blue pajamas, and Kabir wore his usual cartoon-printed shorts and a white T-shirt.

Arjun approached Vikram first, gently shaking his shoulder. "Vikram, uth jao. Breakfast ready hai," he said softly.

Vikram stirred and slowly opened his eyes, giving Arjun a sleepy smile. "Good morning, bhaiya," he mumbled, stretching his arms.

Next, Arjun turned to Kabir, who was still in deep slumber. "Kabir, uthne ka iraada hai ya nahi?" Arjun said a bit louder, playfully pulling the pillow from Kabir's grip.

Kabir groaned and turned over, covering his face with the blanket. "Bhai, thodi der aur," he muttered.

Arjun chuckled and glanced at Vikram, who was now sitting up. "Vikram, tum isse uthao. Main jaake Riya ko bulata hoon," Arjun said, leaving the room.

He walked down the hallway to Riya's room and gently knocked on the door before entering. Riya, still curled up under her blanket, peeked out sleepily. She wore her favorite pink pajamas with tiny white stars, looking cozy and adorable.

"Good morning, Riya," Arjun greeted warmly. "Uth jao, breakfast ready hai."

Riya yawned and stretched, then smiled at her eldest brother. "Good morning, bhaiya. Aap itne subah kyun uth jaate ho?" she asked playfully.

Arjun laughed. "Koi toh hona chahiye jo sabko uthaye. Chalo, fresh ho jao aur neeche aao."

As Riya got up and began her morning routine, Arjun headed back to the kitchen to check on the breakfast preparations. He found Rohan, their close family friend, helping out with the parathas. (Rohan had been a part of their lives for as long as they could remember. He was not family by blood, but the bond they shared made him feel like one. He often stayed over, helping out and joining in family activities.)

"Good morning, Arjun," Rohan greeted with a grin. He was dressed casually in a navy blue T-shirt and jeans. "Tumhare bhai aur behen ab tak uthe nahi?"

"Sab uth rahe hain," Arjun replied with a smile. "Thanks for helping with breakfast."

Soon, the entire family gathered around the dining table. The delicious spread of parathas, achar, and steaming cups of chai awaited them. As they settled in, the usual morning chatter and laughter filled the air.

"Vikram, aaj tumhare kya plans hain?" Arjun asked, pouring himself some chai.

Vikram shrugged, taking a bite of his paratha. "Socha hai thoda study karu aur phir gym jaun. Tumhara kya plan hai, bhaiya?"

"Main aur Rohan kuch important kaam karenge," Arjun replied. "Aur Riya, tum?"

Riya smiled, sipping her chai. "Mujhe kuch painting karni hai aaj. Bhaiya, tum dekhna, main kitna accha painting banati hoon."

"Bilkul, Riya. Tumhari paintings hamesha kamal ki hoti hain," Arjun said proudly.

The morning continued with light-hearted conversations, teasing, and the warmth of familial love. The Sharma siblings, despite their occasional squabbles and differences, shared a bond that was unbreakable and filled with unconditional love and support.

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