Fighting Destiny

Chapter 13 - Reunion

Akshara stood in the quiet of the hospital lounge, still in cloud nine, waiting for the work to be over so she could get back to Abhi's arms. Just then, her phone rang. She glanced at the screen, her heart fluttering as she saw Kairav's name flash across it.

"Hey, Kairav," she answered, trying to keep her tone light despite the nerves fluttering in her stomach.

"Akshara! I have some big news !" Kairav's voice was animated, full of excitement. "Arohi's rishta has been finalized, and she's getting married in the US ! We're leaving for a month for the wedding."

Akshara's heart sank, a mix of emotions washing over her. She took a breath before responding, her voice cool and collected. "That's great news, Kairav. I wish her happiness."

Kairav, ever perceptive, picked up on the chill in her tone. "Are you okay ? You sound a bit... off."

"I'm fine," she replied, a little too quickly. "Just processing everything. I hope you all have a wonderful time."

"Thanks ! We'll definitely take lots of pictures. You can join us if you want ?," he suggested.

"Yeah, maybe." Akshara said, forcing a smile that he couldn't see. As they wrapped up the call, she felt a familiar pang of unease. Arohi's wedding was, hopefully, the last step of her plan to keep her away.

Once she hung up, she turned to find Abhimanyu watching her with concern. "Everything okay?" he asked, stepping closer.

"It's just Kairav telling me about Arohi's wedding in the US," Akshara replied, her voice steady. "They're leaving for a month."

Abhimanyu nodded, his expression thoughtful. "How do you feel about it ?"

"I wish her happiness, but I will be relieved when the wedding will be confirmed and done." Akshara took a deep breath, Abhimanyu nodded, totally understanding her feelings. "I think it's time to go back to our hometown." Suggested Akshara.

"Together," Abhimanyu affirmed, his gaze steady and reassuring.

"Together," she echoed, feeling a sense of comfort in the decision. She glanced at her phone, the silence of the room amplifying the emotional weight of the moment.

Later, as they prepared to leave the hospital, Akshara found Dev and Sonakshi in the lounge. "Hey, guys," she said, her voice softer now, holding a hint of finality. "I wanted to say goodbye before we head out."

Dev looked up, surprise flashing across his face. "You're leaving ? Just like that ?"

"I need some time away," Akshara explained, her heart heavy. "But I promise I'll stay in touch. You both mean so much to me."

Sonakshi stepped forward, pulling Akshara into a tight embrace. "We'll miss you. You're always welcome here, okay ? Just call us whenever you need to talk."

Akshara nodded, blinking back tears. "I'll miss you both too. Thank you for everything."

As she and Abhimanyu walked out of the hospital, the weight of goodbyes lingered in the air. They climbed into his car, the familiar streets of the city passing by, each one holding memories of her time here.

_

Upon arriving at the Birla residence, Akshara felt a rush of nostalgia mixed with nervous excitement. The grand doors opened, and there stood Manjari, her face glowing with warmth as she greeted them. Though Akshara knew this family deeply in her heart, she reminded herself that, to them, she was a stranger. This was their first meeting.

"Akshara, welcome !" Manjari said warmly, pulling her into a gentle hug. Akshara touched Manjari's feet in a respectful greeting, making her smile with appreciation.

"Thank you, Aunty," Akshara replied, her voice soft with affection and a hint of bittersweet remembrance.

As they stepped inside, Neil appeared, his face breaking into a grin as he rushed forward to embrace Abhimanyu in a playful hug. Turning to Akshara, he introduced himself, "Hi, I'm Nei l! So glad to meet you !" he said, his excitement genuine. Akshara smiled, touched by his unchanged kindness. She couldn't stop herself from hugging him. Niel panicked and looked straight at Abhimanyu, but Abhimanyu nodded at him showing him that he doesn't mind, so Niel hugged her back.

" Very nice to meet you Niel, your brother talks about you a lot." Akshara felt a storm of emotions brewing inside her. Vivid flashes of Neil sacrificing himself to save her and their unborn children came to her. The pain of that loss gripped her heart, and she blinked back tears as she remembered the love and protection he had given her. " Only good things I hope ?" grinded Niel. " Of course !" she smiled back.

Throughout the evening, Akshara's respectful manner and gentle nature charmed the Birlas. She greeted Dr. Anand and Mahima with the same grace, touching their feet as a mark of respect, which made them exchange pleased glances. The family couldn't help but feel a strong sense of warmth toward her. Abhimanyu's obvious affection for her only heightened their impression; he rarely took his eyes off her, his smile always softening whenever he looked her way.

With each interaction, Akshara felt the surreal nature of this reunion—a reunion only she truly remembered. As she laughed and conversed with the family, memories of another life flickered in her mind. She remembered Neil's selfless bravery, Manjari's kindness, and the strong bond she once shared with this family. But here, everything was new and full of possibilities.

Manjari took her hand as they settled into the evening, her eyes bright. "We're so glad to welcome you, Akshara. You're already like family to us."

Touched, Akshara felt a tear prick her eye. "Thank you, Aunty. It feels so good to be here." The acceptance and warmth of the Birlas felt overwhelming, filling a void she hadn't realized she still carried.

Dr. Anand stepped forward, his expression warm. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Akshara. Abhimanyu's found someone truly special."

"Thank you, Uncle," Akshara replied, blushing at the compliments and the family's unanimous approval.

Abhimanyu had transformed in this lifetime; his relationship with his father was strong and supportive. She looked around the room at the Birlas, the laughter and love shared among them making her heart swell. She couldn't help but feel grateful that they were all alive and thriving together this time.As she gazed at Abhimanyu, who was chatting animatedly with his family, she felt a wave of joy wash over her. He had changed everything that had been wrong in their past life.

As the evening wound down, Manjari, eyes alight with excitement, brought up wedding plans. "We'll start planning right away ! I want everything to be perfect !"

Akshara hesitated, glancing gently at Manjari. "Maybe we should wait until Arohi's wedding is over ? I don't want to overshadow her special day."

Manjari smiled, nodding with understanding. "You're right, Akshara. Arohi deserves her celebration, but as soon as that's done, we'll get right to it!"

When the night came to a close, Akshara knew in her heart that she had found a family here, one that embraced her wholeheartedly. And as she stood beside Abhimanyu, feeling his hand squeeze hers with quiet reassurance, she realized they had a second chance to write a new story.

Together.

To be continued ...

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