The Billionaire's Embrace

A Mother's Breaking Point

It was an early morning at the Raichand mansion, the first rays of the sun casting a warm glow through the large windows of the dining room. Atharva Raichand sat at the right side of the table, his expression distant as he swirled his coffee absentmindedly. His mother, Akshara Raichand, noticed the change in his demeanor right away. He wasn't someone who let his emotions surface easily, but today, something was different.

"Beta, are you okay?" Akshara asked gently, her voice full of concern.

Atharva sighed and looked up at her, his usually sharp eyes softened by a hint of worry. He placed his coffee cup down and leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.

"I need to talk to all of you," he said, his tone calm but serious.

Akshara exchanged a quick glance with her husband, Adhiraj Raichand, and their two other children, Ayaan and Arohi, who were also seated at the table. Sensing that something important was on Atharva's mind, they all turned their attention to him.

"It's about Aradhya," Atharva began. "She's been going through a lot lately—she lost her job, she's struggling financially, and she's doing everything she can to provide for Aarav. But it's clear that the pressure is becoming too much for her."

Akshara's brows furrowed in concern. "Oh no, poor girl... She's been through so much already. What can we do to help?"

"That's what I wanted to talk about," Atharva said, his eyes locking onto his mother's. "I've been thinking... maybe we should ask her and Aarav to move in with us. It would take a lot of the financial burden off her shoulders, and Aarav would have a safe, stable environment to grow up in."

The room fell into a brief silence as Atharva's family processed the idea. It wasn't out of character for Atharva to help someone in need, but asking Aradhya and Aarav to move into their home was a big step—one that would change things for all of them.

Adhiraj, the patriarch and head of the family, spoke first. "I think that's a good idea, Atharva. Aradhya's been doing everything on her own for too long, and we can offer her the support she needs."

Ayaan, Atharva's younger brother, nodded in agreement. "And Aarav's a great kid. He deserves to grow up in a happy environment. Plus, I've seen how much he looks up to you, Bhai."

Arohi, who had always been the most empathetic in the family, added, "She's a proud woman. It might be hard for her to accept help, but maybe we can make her see that this is what's best for Aarav."

Atharva leaned back in his chair, feeling reassured by his family's support. "I'm going to talk to her today. I'll try to make her understand that we're doing this for Aarav, not because we think she's incapable."

Akshara smiled gently. "You're doing the right thing, beta. But be patient with her—she's been through more than most people could handle."

Later that day, Atharva arrived at Aradhya's modest apartment. He had been there several times before, but today felt different. He had a purpose, and it was one that he knew could either bring Aradhya relief or push her further into despair. Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door, and after a moment, Aradhya opened it.

"Atharva," she said with a tired smile. "Come in."

He stepped inside, his eyes immediately scanning the small space. Aarav was playing on the floor with his toys, and he waved excitedly when he saw Atharva.

"Dadda!" Aarav called out, running over to hug Atharva's legs.

"Hey, champ," Atharva said, picking him up for a quick hug before setting him back down. "You've been behaving, right?"