56. How's my wife?

161 8 0
                                    

Adhyay's pov

Mornings like these were the moments I cherished the most—when the house was alive with laughter and love, and Meera's presence radiated warmth. Watching her sit at the dining table surrounded by everyone, glowing with happiness and the beginnings of motherhood once again, made my heart swell with pride.

As I handed Ruhaan his cereal and watched him bargain for ice cream, I couldn't help but smirk. This little boy had inherited my knack for negotiating, but his determination was all Meera. He tackled his cereal like it was the most serious mission of his life, determined to earn that trip to the park.

Leaning closer to Meera, I whispered, "How are you feeling? Hope this army isn't overwhelming you."

She turned to me, her lips curving into a soft smile. "Not at all. It's sweet, how everyone is taking care of me. Though Kabeer's schedule might just tire me out before the day even starts," she teased, her eyes sparkling.

I chuckled, shaking my head. Kabeer's overprotective streak was amusing but necessary, given how stubborn Meera could get about taking care of herself. She might be glowing, but I knew she would try to hide any discomfort to avoid worrying me.

Ruhaan tugged at my sleeve, breaking my thoughts. "Baba, aap mujhe school chhodenge na?"

I nodded, ruffling his hair. "Of course, champ. Tumhare bina office kaise jaa sakta hoon?"

Satisfied, he went back to munching on his cereal, leaving me to turn my attention back to Meera. Her plate was still mostly untouched, and I frowned slightly.

"You haven't eaten much," I pointed out, lowering my voice so only she could hear.

She sighed playfully. "Adhyay, it's a feast. I don't even know where to start."

I leaned in closer, my voice dropping to a murmur. "Start wherever you want, but you're finishing at least half of that plate, Meera. I mean it."

Her cheeks flushed, and she picked up a piece of fruit, shooting me a mock glare. "Happy now, Your Highness?"

"Very," I replied, smirking as I leaned back in my chair.

After breakfast, I helped Ruhaan with his bag and jacket, getting him ready for preschool. Meera stood by the door, watching us, her hands resting on her belly. Her gaze held something unspoken—a mix of gratitude, love, and the kind of happiness that comes from knowing you're deeply cared for.

"Ruhaan, come here," she called softly, kneeling down to his level.

He toddled over, his tiny backpack bouncing with each step. She cupped his face, pressing a kiss to his forehead. "Be a good boy at school, okay? Listen to your teacher and don't trouble anyone."

"Okay, Maa," he replied with a serious nod before rushing back to me.

I scooped him up, settling him on my hip. "Chalo, champ. Let's get going before we're late." Turning to Meera, I caught her watching us, a soft smile tugging at her lips.

"I'll see you later," I said, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "Don't skip anything Kabeer has planned, okay?"

She rolled her eyes but nodded, and I knew she'd follow through—if only to avoid Kabeer's lectures.

As Ruhaan and I headed out the door, I couldn't help but glance back one more time. Meera stood there, her hands resting protectively over her belly, a look of pure contentment on her face.

This was everything I had ever wanted—a family, a home filled with laughter, and a future that promised even more love and chaos. And as I drove Ruhaan to preschool, I couldn't help but think about the little one on the way. Life had never felt more complete.

The Unwanted Royal MarriageWhere stories live. Discover now