Part 15 : A Surprising Discovery
As the weeks passed, Rishab slowly regained his strength and appetite, buoyed by Shreyas’s unwavering support. The village continued to thrive, and so did their mural, which had become a vibrant symbol of hope and love. However, beneath the surface of their shared joy, a subtle change in Rishab’s body began to stir—a change that would alter the course of their lives forever.
One sunny afternoon, as Rishab and Shreyas were working on the mural together, Rishab felt a strange sensation. It was a gentle flutter in his abdomen, something he couldn’t quite place. He paused mid-stroke, glancing over at Shreyas, who was deep in concentration, mixing colors for the next section of their artwork.
“Shreyas,” Rishab called softly, a hint of uncertainty creeping into his voice.
“Hmm?” Shreyas looked up, his brow furrowing in concern at the tone of Rishab's voice. “What is it?”
Rishab hesitated, his mind racing. “I’ve been feeling something odd… in my stomach. Like… little movements.”
Shreyas’s eyes widened, and he set his brush down, stepping closer to Rishab. “What kind of movements? How long has this been happening?”
“I don’t know,” Rishab admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “A few days, maybe? I thought it was just my stomach acting up again, but… it feels different now.”
Shreyas took a deep breath, the weight of realization pressing down on him. “Rishab, have you considered that you might be pregnant?”
Rishab’s heart raced at the thought. “Pregnant? That’s impossible… right?”
“Let’s not jump to conclusions, but it’s a possibility,” Shreyas said, his eyes shining with a mix of hope and apprehension. “We should see the healer. She can help determine what’s going on.”
Rishab nodded, a whirlwind of emotions coursing through him. Could it really be true? He had imagined starting a family one day, but never thought it could be happening so soon. As they made their way to the healer’s hut, excitement and fear danced in his chest.
When they arrived, the healer greeted them with a warm smile, but her expression shifted to concern when she saw Rishab’s pale face.
“What brings you here today?” she asked, leading them inside.
Rishab took a deep breath, feeling Shreyas’s hand on his back. “I’ve been feeling unusual movements in my stomach, and we’re worried I might be pregnant.”
The healer’s eyes sparkled with understanding. “Let’s check and see what’s happening.”
She guided Rishab to a comfortable seat and began her examination. Rishab felt a mix of nerves and anticipation, stealing glances at Shreyas, who stood by his side, holding his hand tightly.
After a few moments, the healer smiled, her expression warm and reassuring. “I have good news, Rishab. You are indeed pregnant. I can sense the life growing within you.”
Rishab’s heart soared, a wave of joy and disbelief crashing over him. “I’m going to be a father?” he asked, his voice filled with wonder.
Shreyas’s face broke into a radiant smile, his eyes shining with tears of happiness. “Yes, you are! We’re going to be parents!”
Rishab felt a rush of emotions—excitement, fear, joy. “But… what does this mean for us? For the mural? For everything?”
The healer placed a reassuring hand on Rishab’s shoulder. “This is a beautiful journey you’re embarking on. Pregnancy can be challenging, but with care and support, you can continue your work. Just remember to prioritize your health and well-being.”
Shreyas squeezed Rishab’s hand tighter, his expression determined. “We’ll do this together. You don’t have to worry. I’m here for you every step of the way.”
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Rishab nodded, feeling the warmth of Shreyas’s love wrap around him like a protective cocoon. “Thank you,” he said, tears glistening in his eyes. “I’m so lucky to have you.”
As they left the healer’s hut, the world outside felt different. The vibrant colors of the murals seemed brighter, the air more alive with possibility. They walked hand in hand, each step filled with a newfound sense of purpose.
Once back at their cottage, Shreyas turned to Rishab, his eyes shining with love and excitement. “Let’s celebrate this beautiful news. We’re going to create a family together!”
Rishab smiled, feeling lighter than he had in weeks. “Yes! I can’t wait to start this journey with you.”
As the evening settled in, they prepared a simple meal together, laughter filling the air as they shared their dreams of parenthood. They talked about names, the kind of parents they wanted to be, and how they would involve their child in the beautiful world they were creating.
After dinner, they sat on the porch, watching the sun set behind the hills. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, mirroring the mural that had brought them together.
“Look at that,” Shreyas said, gesturing toward the horizon. “Just like our mural, our baby will be a part of this beautiful story.”
Rishab rested his head on Shreyas’s shoulder, feeling the warmth of his partner beside him. “I can’t wait to share our love with them. They’re going to grow up surrounded by art, love, and acceptance.”
Shreyas turned to Rishab, his expression softening. “And they’ll have you as their father. I know you’ll be amazing.”
Rishab felt a surge of warmth at Shreyas’s words. “And I’ll have you as my partner. Together, we can do anything.”
As the stars began to twinkle overhead, Rishab felt a sense of peace wash over him. They were about to embark on a new chapter, one filled with love, challenges, and beautiful moments. With Shreyas by his side, he knew they would face it all together.
