"WHIPSERS OF TOGETHERNESS "

12 ~ KNOWING ABOUT HER

Kumar's Mansion - 9:00 AM, USA

The morning sun gently filtered through the large windows of the spacious Kumar's mansion. The living room, adorned with tasteful furniture and soft rugs, was bustling with the casual conversation and light hearted teasing that often filled the family's time together. Ahaan, Ankur, Ruhi, Raman, and Ishita were all seated around the room, cups of steaming coffee and tea in their hands. The air carried a soft fragrance of jasmine and freshly brewed tea.

Ruhi (thoughtfully, swirling her cup): "Mom, I've been thinking... Should I buy something for Pankti? Like a bracelet or a necklace? Something thoughtful."

Ishita, who was leaning back comfortably on the plush couch, smiled and raised an eyebrow at her daughter's eagerness.

Ishita (playfully): "You could, Ruhi. But wouldn't it be nicer if this question came from Ahaan instead?"

All eyes turned to Ahaan, who was sitting on the arm of the couch, fiddling with his phone. He looked up, clearly caught off guard, and gave a sheepish grin.

Ahaan (sighing, almost in defeat): "Mom..."

Ishita (teasingly): "What, mom? It's a perfectly valid suggestion!"

Ankur (laughing, dramatically gasping): "Excuse me, but who is Pankti?" He looked at Ahaan with feigned shock, his hand on his heart.

Before Ahaan could respond, Ruhi jumped in, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Ruhi (grinning): "Ankur bhai, bhai didn't tell you yet?"

Ankur (leaning forward curiously): "Tell me what?"

Ruhi threw a playful glance at Ahaan, who looked like he'd rather disappear into the couch cushions.

Ruhi (gleefully): "Bua has seen a girl for bhai! Her name is Pankti, and we're going to India next Saturday to meet her and the family."

Ankur (mock disappointment): "What! The most eligible bachelor is going to be hitched, and he didn't even tell his best friend? Not fair, Ahaan!"

Ahaan (smiling, defensive): "Arey yaar, I was going to tell you! That's why I called you here this morning."

Ankur (raising his fist in jest): "Thank God you were going to tell me today, or else..." He mock-punched the air.

The room filled with laughter as Ahaan playfully pushed Ankur's fist aside.

Ahaan (laughing): "Why would I hide something like this from you?"

Ankur (grinning): "Good, good. Now show me the picture of our would-be Pankti bhabhi."

Ahaan leaned back with a faint smile, shaking his head.

Ahaan (teasing): "She's not your bhabhi yet."

Ankur (with exaggerated patience): "That's why I said 'would-be,' Ahaan. Now show me the pic!"

Before Ahaan could respond, Ruhi jumped in again, grabbing her phone.

Ruhi (enthusiastically): "Ankur bhai, come here! I'll show you."

She quickly swiped through her phone, pulling up a picture of Pankti in a traditional Indian saree, the soft colors of the fabric highlighting her delicate features.

Ankur (leaning over her shoulder): "This one?"

Ruhi (nodding proudly): "Hmm!"

Ankur stared at the picture for a moment, nodding in appreciation.