Stethescope & Secret Vows

The homecoming chaos

The sun rose gently over the sprawling mustard fields of the picturesque Indian village, casting a warm golden glow over the Chauhan haveli. The air was alive with the festive buzz of wedding preparations—bright marigold garlands hung from every pillar, the rhythmic beats of the dhol echoed in the background, and the aroma of freshly prepared sweets wafted through the courtyard. It was a scene of joyous chaos, where every corner of the sprawling house brimmed with laughter, chatter, and a sense of togetherness. 

Siddhant Chauhan stepped out of his room, his tall frame and dignified demeanor instantly commanding attention. His crisp white kurta, paired with dark denims, spoke of simplicity and understated charm. Siddhant, a renowned cardiologist in the city, had returned to his village not just as the eldest son but as the unwavering pillar of his family. For the villagers, he wasn’t just “Doctor Saab” but their very own Siddhu Bhaiya, the man who never hesitated to treat anyone in need at the village hospital, often free of charge. 

“Chachu! Chachu!” a chorus of gleeful voices broke his reverie as his two nephews came barreling toward him, their little feet kicking up dust as they ran. Siddhant crouched just in time to catch both boys, their giggles ringing out as he lifted them into the air. 

“Arre, mere sher! Already up and running so early?” Siddhant teased, spinning them around. 

“Chachu, come play with us! We need one more person for our team!” one of the boys begged, clinging to his neck. 

“Play? At this hour? What about your studies?” Siddhant asked, feigning seriousness. 

“Studies are for school, Chachu! Today is for cricket!” the younger one declared confidently, making Siddhant laugh. 

Their mother, Siddhant’s sister-in-law, emerged from the kitchen with her hands dusted in flour. “Don’t spoil them, Siddhant Bhaiya. I’ll never hear the end of it if they forget their lessons.” 

“Come on, Bhabhi,” Siddhant said with a grin. “Every kid needs to learn strategy, and what better way than cricket?” He winked, setting the boys down as they cheered and ran back to their game. 

“Always on their side,” she muttered with mock exasperation, shaking her head as she walked away. 

In another corner of the courtyard, Siddhant’s elder brother, the groom-to-be, was being teased relentlessly by their cousins. “What are you hiding for, Bhaiya?” one of them called out. “Worried about your saalis pulling your leg?” 

Siddhant joined the group, leaning casually against a pillar. “Don’t worry, Bhaiyya. If it gets too much, I’ll rescue you,” he said with a smirk, his tone laced with mischief. “But then, who’ll rescue you from Bhabhi after the wedding?” 

The group burst into laughter as the groom groaned, rubbing his temples. 

Just then, Siddhant’s phone buzzed in his pocket, breaking the moment. He glanced at the screen—it was a reminder for his rounds at the village hospital. Despite the festive chaos, he had made time to visit his patients, a testament to his dedication. 

“Bhai, skipping the fun already?” his younger cousin asked, noticing him prepare to leave. 

“Duty calls,” Siddhant replied, tucking his stethoscope into his bag. “But don’t worry—I’ll be back before the evening celebrations. And when I return, you’d better save me some of those laddoos.” 

As he walked out of the haveli, the sounds of the lively household faded into the background, replaced by the quiet hum of the village waking up. Siddhant glanced around at the familiar surroundings—the cobblestone streets, the lush green fields, and the smiling faces of the villagers greeting him warmly. This was home, and despite his busy city life, he knew he would always be drawn back to its heart.