A light in the flame

Chapter 28 - An angel is born

Life in London had brought a new rhythm for Abhimanyu, Akshara, and Abhir, who'd settled happily into their new home. Akshara's pregnancy had progressed smoothly, and with each day, they grew more excited about their little girl's arrival. Abhimanyu cherished every moment—this time, he was determined not to miss a single milestone, unlike when Akshara had been pregnant with Abhir.

One evening, after a long day, Akshara stretched on the couch, her hand resting on her belly. Abhimanyu walked in, carrying a cup of tea, his face lighting up as he saw her.

"How's my favorite little girl doing today?" he asked, leaning down to press a gentle kiss on Akshara's belly.

Akshara laughed, running her fingers through his hair as he sat beside her. "She's been practicing her kicks all day! I think she might be a soccer player."

Abhimanyu's eyes sparkled with excitement. " Really ?" He placed his hand on her belly, waiting with bated breath. After a few seconds, he felt a small nudge under his palm, a delicate kick that made his heart swell. "There it is ! She's saying hello to me," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

Akshara watched him, her heart melting at the sight. "I wish you could have been here for this part with Abhir too."

He took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Me too, Akshu. But right now, I feel so lucky just to be here... to witness this. It's like getting a second chance."

They spent the next few weeks savoring these quiet, intimate moments. Each night, Abhimanyu would read to Akshara, his voice soft as he spoke to both her and their unborn daughter, sharing stories of adventure and love. Some nights, he'd sit beside her, humming lullabies as his hand rested on her belly, savoring the subtle kicks and wiggles from their little girl.

One night, Akshara shifted uncomfortably, rubbing her back with a grimace. Abhimanyu immediately noticed and jumped up. "Lie down, Akshu," he said gently. "Let me help."

He knelt beside her, his hands working expertly to massage her lower back. His touch was gentle yet firm, easing her tension as he whispered comforting words. "Is that better?" he asked, his eyes full of concern.

Akshara sighed in relief, closing her eyes. "So much better... thank you, Abhi. I don't know what I'd do without you."

He chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "You'd manage just fine, but I'm glad to be here. I want to be part of every moment, Akshu... every kick, every little flutter, all of it."

On weekends, he'd take her out for slow walks by the river, holding her hand and supporting her whenever she needed to pause. One afternoon, as they walked, she felt the baby kick again, this time a strong, surprising jolt. Abhimanyu knelt down right there, talking directly to their daughter.

"Listen, little one," he murmured, his voice gentle and loving. "I know you're excited to meet us, but stay cozy for a little while longer, okay? We'll be here, waiting."

Akshara laughed, watching him with a mixture of adoration and amusement. "Are you trying to negotiate with our daughter?"

He grinned, shrugging. "Just trying to let her know her dad's already wrapped around her tiny finger."

As her pregnancy neared the final weeks, Akshara often caught Abhimanyu lost in thought, his hand resting on her belly protectively. One evening, after she'd drifted off to sleep, he whispered softly to their daughter, his voice barely audible.

"Your mama is the bravest person I know," he murmured, his hand still on her belly. "She's given me the world... you, Abhir, this life we have together. And you—our little miracle—you're already so loved."