My Secret Love

Chapter 11

Aarti was busy instructing the servants to pack the gifts and load them into the car quickly. Her tone was firm, yet her usual warmth still showed through as she ensured everything was in place for their trip to Delhi.

"Hurry up, we need to leave soon!" she called out, her eyes scanning the preparations with a sharp, practiced gaze.

Abhi walked into the room, still on the phone, speaking to his manager. "Yes, make sure the designs for the winter collection are approved by the client by Monday. And don't forget to follow up on the international shipment-it's crucial for our timeline."

As he finished the call, he slipped his phone into his pocket and turned toward his mother, who gave him an exasperated look.

"Abhi, it's just a matter of a week. You can afford to take a break and stay at your Nani's place in Delhi. After all, this trip is important-we need to see the bride," Aarti reminded him.

Abhi shook his head, smiling slightly but with a hint of frustration. "Mom, it's not that simple. I've got this project going on, and it's not just any project. It's Dad's dream-turning AR from a local clothing store into a leading fashion brand, and now we're expanding into new territories. AR is hosting fashion shows, collaborating with international designers, and our clothing line is making waves in the industry. This upcoming project could elevate us even further, and I want to see it through."

Aarti's face softened as she listened to her son, pride filling her eyes. "Abhi, I'm so proud of you. Your father would be too. You've done so much more than anyone could've imagined. AR is now a name people respect, all because of your dedication and hard work."

Abhi smiled at his mother's words, but his mind quickly shifted to another concern. "By the way, Mom, did you talk to Garima Aunty?"

Aarti's expression changed, a flicker of annoyance crossing her features. "I'm still angry with Garima. I can't believe they've decided to shift to Mumbai like that, without even consulting us first."

Abhi sighed, trying to calm his mother down. "Mom, I'm sure Shashi Uncle must have some important work that'll keep him in Mumbai for a while. You know how Uncle is-he can't stay away from family for too long. But I've asked Arnav to talk to him about it. I don't want them to move either."

Just then, Arnav strolled into the living room, yawning lazily. "I talked with Uncle," he said, rubbing his eyes. "They aren't moving to Mumbai yet."

Abhi frowned, confused. "What do you mean by 'yet'?"

Arnav plopped down onto the couch and stretched. "Uncle said he really has some important work in Mumbai, and his boss trusts him with it. It might take longer than expected, but I've requested him not to move permanently. He said he'd come back after the work is done. After all, Uncle has spent his whole life in Lucknow; moving wouldn't be easy for him."

Abhi nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah, you're right. Uncle's heart is here in Lucknow, I'm sure he won't be able to move for good. He'll be back. Mom, now will you leave your anger behind and talk to Aunty? She's been calling since morning."

Aarti huffed, clearly still not pleased with the situation, but she relented. "Alright, alright. I'll talk to her. But not through phone. I'll go and meet her."

Arnav walked over to his mother and hugged her from behind. "Don't worry, Mom. They know how much we need them. They can't leave us."

Aarti's expression softened, and she hugged Arnav back tightly. "You boys mean the world to me," she said, her voice thick with emotion.

Abhi smiled warmly and joined the hug, his arms wrapping around both his mother and brother. Aarti was holding her sons in a warm embrace, a tender moment shared between mother and her two beloved boys. The family bond was strong, and though they often bickered or had their differences, moments like this reminded them all of how much they truly meant to each other.