"Yuvraj, please," I whispered, my voice breaking. "Don't do this."
"Get up," he ordered, his voice as cold as ice.
Tears streamed down my face. "Please, I'll do anything. Just don't make me-"
"Step on the glass," he interrupted, his eyes burning wit...
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The house was alive with excitement. The familiar hum of voices filled the air as friends and family gathered in celebration. The decorations were vibrant with marigold flowers, garlands, and colorful streamers-traditional touches for an Indian baby shower. It felt surreal, but in the best way possible. Aisha's smile was infectious as she glowed with happiness, her hand resting gently on her growing belly. Today was special, not just for her, but for our entire family.
Aaradhya, now 6, was running around the house with Mochi, our playful female cat, who had now been a part of the family for almost 6 years. She darted between guests, making sure everyone was part of her game. It made me smile to see her so carefree, so full of life. She had grown into such a bright, sweet child, and soon she would have a sibling to share that joy with. Aisha's excitement was palpable, and I could see how much she had longed for this moment. We were about to bring our own baby into this world, a miracle that would complete our family.
I stood back for a moment, taking in the scene. Yashraj, my younger brother, was talking to his neighbor, Rhea. There was something undeniably different about the way he looked at her. I had never seen Yashraj this way before-softened by love, more open than usual. Rhea was five years older than him, but it was clear that age had no bearing on their connection. They were magnetic, and the way Yashraj's face lit up when he spoke about her made me think this might be the real thing for him. It was a far cry from the brooding, quiet Yashraj I had always known. His love for Rhea was genuine, and it made me proud to see him finally letting someone into his heart.
Then, there was Viraj, my youngest brother, who had been inseparable from Alia for the past few months. The two of them were practically attached at the hip. They had been through their own challenges, but the way they supported each other was inspiring. Today, I couldn't help but notice how Viraj kept looking at Alia with a tenderness that was reserved just for her. It was clear to anyone who saw them together that they were meant to be, and I couldn't be happier for him. They were engaged now, a milestone in their relationship, and I could see a lifetime of happiness ahead for them.
Aisha looked so content as she laughed and interacted with everyone. Her hand was always on her belly, rubbing it absentmindedly as she listened to stories and jokes from my mother and Alia. My mother, ever the doting matriarch, was moving around the room, ensuring everyone was comfortable, while also fussing over Aisha. I could tell she was just as excited about becoming a grandmother as Aisha was about becoming a mother.
The party was filled with laughter, music, and the delicious smell of traditional Indian dishes. The highlight of the event came when Aisha was showered with gifts-little clothes for the baby, handmade toys, and sweet little trinkets. Each gift was a testament to how much love surrounded us. I stood by Aisha's side, my hand on her shoulder, feeling the weight of this new chapter in our lives.
As we moved on to the final part of the celebration-the ritual of giving blessings-Aaradhya ran up to us, holding Mochi in her arms. "Mom, Dad, look! Mochi's going to be a big sister soon!" she giggled, clearly excited at the thought.
