Saiyyan-Complete FF; Epilogue - Pg. 14 - Page 5

CHAPTER 16

Preet placed the last bags in the van and closed the trunk. "Everything is in the car PB!" Preet yelled, so Prem heard him. Prem did a final check on the car's engine and closed the hood.

As if on cue, Heer, Meher, Ashlesha, Gayatri, and Lalit came out. "All good beta?" Lalit asked Prem. "Yes papa...we're all set." Prem replied. The youngsters touched the elder's feet and started piling into the van.

"Take this...I made some snacks for the road." Gayatri passed the bag to Heer and turned to Prem. "Drive carefully beta." Gayatri said, placing a loving hand on Prem's head.

"Yes maa." Prem responded, and gave Gayatri a quick peck on her cheek before entering the driver's seat.

Heer placed the food bag in the back of the car and noticed that only the passenger seat was available. Seeing Ash, Meher, and Preet already seated at the back of van, Heer had no choice but to accompany Prem in the front.

Once everyone buckled in, Prem stepped on the gas pedal and headed toward the Juneja farmhouse.

Two hours into the ride, Prem pulled into a rest area for the group to stretch their legs. They stopped in a small town right outside the bustling city of Mumbai.

"Heer didi...apko kuch chahiye?" Meher asked as soon as she stepped out of the van, pointing to a convenience store. Heer nodded her head, letting Meher know that she was fine. With that said, Meher and Ashlesha went inside to pick up some snacks for the group.

Outside, Heer leaned against the van and looked out at the scenery in front of her. It was a cute little spot. The store was conveniently nestled on the street corner. Town homes surrounded the area, with little lawns out front. There was a school right next to the convenience store with the playground in plain sight. There were kids playing in it at the moment. Such pure souls...with no care in the world. Those were such innocent times, Heer thought.

Preet came and stood next to Heer, leaning against the car just like her. "Kya soch rahi ho Heer di?" Preet asked, following Heer's gaze to see the kids playing.

"The kids all look so happy..." Heer responded, her voice almost distant, just like her thoughts. "No care in the world...no disappointments...no heartbreak...the only thing in mind is when they will get to play outside. It was such innocent times..." Heer echoed her thoughts.

Preet observed Heer's profile, his heart aching for his Heer di. She just seemed so lost right now and he never really had one-on-one time with Heer since before the wedding either. It's like Heer was in the room...but she still wasn't with them.

Preet then looked past Heer and saw Prem standing towards the front of the van, far enough to not intrude in their conversation, but still close enough to listen.

"Woh toh ab bhi ho sakta hai Heer di...bas nazariya badal na chahiye." Preet replied, his young mind seeing something that no one else understood at the moment. Heer peeled her eyes away from the children and looked at Preet for the first time since their conversation started. Something in what Preet said...she couldn't make out what he meant...but there was a deeper meaning there.

Before Heer had more time to ponder at Preet's cryptic response, Meher and Ashlesha came back out with chips and sodas.

"Look didi...I got your favorite...orange fanta." Meher said, handing Heer the soda and opening one for herself.

"Arre...tum dieting kar rahi thi naa?" Preet asked Meher playfully, causing Ashlesha to hit Preet's arm in defense of her younger cousin.

"Ow! Why are you girls always so violent!?" Preet whined, rubbing his sore arm.

"Tu apna mooh bandh kyon nahin rakta? Jab bhi baath karta hai ladhkiyo se pitt tha hai" Prem answered wittily, causing Meher and Ash to giggle and Preet looking at his brother in mock betrayal.

Everyone noticed, however, that Heer still didn't laugh. She didn't even smile, she simply continued to stare at the kids playing in the playground. Meher opened her mouth to say something to Heer, but caught Prem's eye in the last moment. He shook his head in a subtle gesture, letting Meher know to not push Heer. Seeing this, Meher refrained from saying anything.

At that moment, a basketball bounced off the basket and rolled over to the gang. Prem caught it easily and saw a group of young kids approach them. "Bhaiya! Can you please give our ball back?" One of the kids called out. Prem observed the group of kids and saw that they looked around 10 to 12 years old.

"Bhaiya please!" Another kid called out. Prem looked down at the basketball in his hands and then back at kids, He then walked towards the kids as the rest of the gang stood back and waited to see what Prem would do. Heer looked on intently as well, her brows drawing together in curiosity.

"You want this back?" Prem asked casually. "YES!" The kids responded enthusiastically. Prem then spun the basketball easily on the tip of his index finger, "Then come and get it." He challenged. Giving a playful grin, Prem bounced the basketball and made his way to the basketball court with the excited kids in tow, trying to steal the ball back and preventing Prem from scoring.

Preet soon joined the fun and the Juneja brothers had the time of their lives playing basketball with these kids. Meher and Ashlesha cheered them on and at one point switch teams and started cheering the kids instead.

It was such a treat to watch. Heer looked on at the scene unfolding before her. Not too long ago she was admiring the innocence of seeing these kids playing and just being kids. But now with Prem and Preet in the picture, it still didn't take away from the innocence...it was all still there.

Heer then saw Prem steal the ball from Preet and pass it onto a kid who scored. Prem high fived the boy and teased Preet about it, causing the kids to laugh. It was...charming. What Prem did...it was just so charming.

Heer wasn't sure how to feel about this. Heer always focused so much on Prem's annoying habits that she never noticed this side to him. Was he always this good with kids? Uneasy of where her thoughts were going, Heer turned to look at something else and divert her thoughts elsewhere.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham~

Shocked, Heer turned to see Prem kneeling in front of the kids, singing the beginning words. He then looked at her and continued.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Tere Sang Hai Hum~

The kids jumped up in joy and started to dance around Prem as he pointed at Heer.

Haske To Dekh Tu Ek Baar
Khudh Hi Aa Jaayegi Phir Bahaar

He pointed at the skies above and danced his way over to Heer. Heer looked on, still trying to process what was happening in front of her.

~Gaa Le Nayi Sargam
Geet Ek Naya Gaa
Aaya Naya Mausam
Aaya Din Naya~

Prem playfully flicked Heer's chin, trying to get her to smile. At this point Preet, Meher, and Ashlesha joined and started dancing with the kids.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham
Chak De Chak De Chak De
Tere Sang Hai Hum~

Two girls grabbed Heer by her hands and pulled to the center of the playground. Some of the kids came and gave Heer a group hug, showering this stranger with love because she looked sad.

~Chehd De Dhun Woh Aaj Cha Jaaye Mastiya
Chod De Khulke Aaj Lehron Mein Khashtiya~

Prem came and placed one arm around Heer. He used his other hand to imitate waves.

~Tokhar Mein Masti Ho
Dang Kar Bhi Joomein
Mann Bhi Dirakh Jaaye
Badal Ko Chumein~

Preet came up Heer and hugged her. He then twirled Heer in a smooth dance move and sang along with Prem.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham
Chak De Chak De Chak De
Tere Sang Hai Hum~

Meher then approached her sister and placed a loving hand on her shoulders, singing the next lines.

~Sach Hai Yeh Bas Ek Baar Milti Hai Zindagi
Karwatein Badal Thi Hai Pal Pal Yeh Zindagi~

Ashlesha then followed and placed an arm around Heer. She then pointed to Prem, Preet, and the kids, showing Heer the joy around them. Heer's eyes watered a little, feeling overwhelmed at what was happening around her. They were all doing this...for her.

~Har Pal Ko Ghale Se Haske Laga Le
Pal Pal Mein Chupi Jo Khushiya Chura Le~

Prem then took over once again and started dancing around Heer. The kids making a circle around her and singing along as well.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham
Chak De Chak De Chak De
Tere Sang Hai Hum~

Heer's lips twitched a little at the sweet kids and she started clapping along.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham~

Meher came and playfully started spinning Heer, and finally...Heer's smiled bloomed.

~Haske To Dekh Tu Ek Baar
Khudh Hi Aa Jayegi Phir Bahaar~

Prem stopped what he was doing, seeing Heer's smile. There it is...Her eyes were watery and it was clear to see that Heer was overwhelmed. But...there it is...that smile.

~Gaa Le Nayi Sargam
Geet Ek Naya Gaa
Aaya Naya Mausam
Aaya Din Naya~

Preet noticed Prem stop singing and dancing. Wondering what happened he turned to see what Prem was staring at, and when Preet saw Heer smiling...he knew why Prem stopped. Grinning, Preet nudged Prem, breaking Prem out of his trance.

~Chak De Chak De Chak De
Chak De Saare Gham
Chak De Chak De Chak De
Tere Sang Hai Hum~

Prem pretended nothing happened as Preet smirked at the scene he just witnessed. Completely oblivious to the effect she was having on Prem, Heer smiled on as the kids danced around her.

In that moment...Heer felt like she got a little more of herself back.

*A few hours later*

Prem pulled up on the drive way to the lavish house. On cue, multiple servants came out and started taking the bags into the house.

An elderly man walked up to Prem, "Welcome Prem baba" Prem turned to see their loyal butler greeting him. "Hey uncle Brijraj! How are you?" Prem hugged Brijraj and Preet followed suit.

Brijraj may be a servant of the Juneja family, but Prem and Preet always called him uncle and treated him with respect. The girls greeted Brijraj as well and they all made their way inside the farmhouse.

Once inside, everyone separated to their separate rooms and unpack. Heer opened her suitcase and started hanging up her clothes in the closet. Prem and her were not sharing a room during their stay here. At the Juneja mansion, it didn't feel right to stay in separate rooms with the elders around. But here...Prem and Heer didn't have to share a room like a normal married couple.

When Heer asked Brijraj uncle for a separate room, Prem didn't argue. And so now she was here...unpacking and looking forward to some time alone.

In the meantime, Prem pulled his bag into his room and started unpacking himself. Once done he looked around the empty room and felt a little lonely. When Heer asked for a separate room he felt a little sting in his chest. He didn't argue because he knew Heer probably wanted her own space. It wasn't easy to leave your childhood home and bedroom and then share a room with your nemesis. But he couldn't deny the fact that he felt a little uneasy when she asked for a separate room. Prem was starting to get used to sharing his room with Heer...so when she asked to stay separate...the idea bothered him.

Prem tried to shake off the feeling and was glad when Preet entered his room. "Hey PB...aaj ka plan kya hai?" Preet asked, jumping on Prem's bed, making himself comfortable.

Prem took out two beers from the mini fridge and tossed one to Preet, which he caught effortlessly. "Ask the girls...did they want to do anything in particular?"

Preet was about to answer when he looked over Prem's head to the wall. Preet's face went pale. Prem frowned at his little brother's change in color, "kya hua?" Prem asked, worried, and followed Preet's gaze.

Heer was in the kitchen pouring herself a glass of water when she heard the screams followed by a loud crash. Dropping the glass Heer ran towards the noise.

Heer, Meher, and Ashlesha all arrived at the same time in front Prem's bedroom. Rushing in to see who died, they walked in to the Juneja brothers...both grown men...standing on top of the coffee table...hugging each other...as a servant chased a lizard across the floor.

The lizard started climbing up the leg of the coffee table, causing Preet and Prem to scream again. They jumped from the coffee table to the bed and hugged each other again, their faces reflecting pure terror.

Heer, Meher, and Ashlesha watched with their jaws dropped. The girls looked at each other and then looked at the Juneja brothers. Someone giggled...and that giggle became full on laughter. All heads turned to see Heer leaning against the door jam...laughing.

The other four stood stunned for a moment. Heer was laughing...they almost forgot what that looked like. Today was definitely a blessing...first a smile...and now laughter. Meher and Ashlesha looked at each other, overwhelmed at the sight, until they finally joined Heer in the laughter as well.

Preet grinned at the sight and joined in as well. He turned to congratulate Prem, only to see Prem silently staring at Heer. He couldn't seem to look away. Heer was laughing...and what a beautiful sight she made. Eyes sparkling...face glowing...the sound angelic.

Prem felt something shift in his chest. The hand that was squeezing his heart this whole time loosened its grip. The pressure in his chest lessened...and he felt himself breath.

Preet bumped his shoulder into Prem's, bringing him back to reality for the second time that day. Startled, Prem came back and looked at his younger brother, only to see Preet innocently looking back at him, trying to hide his smirk. Prem cleared his throat and jumped off the bed.

"Tum dono pagal ho...patha hai?" Heer said, trying to catch her breath, "koi chipkali se itna darte hai kya?" She asked, causing Meher and Ashlesha to giggle.

"Main nahin darta!" Preet countered, "Mein toh bas...PB ko protect kar raha tha. Kyon PB?" Preet lied, trying to save face in front of the ladies.

Prem gave a death glare to Preet and knocked him over the head with his hand. "Ow! Sab mujhe marte kyon rehte hai!?" Preet yelped, rubbing the back of his head, knowing completely well that there was no heat behind Prem's slap.

All three girls giggled again, knowing that they will never let the Juneja brothers' forget this moment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~'

How was it? Are you guys liking how this is turning out? I haven't been receiving alot of comments so i'm curios to know if deshians are reading this let me know if you are! tell me what works...what doesn't work...what you like...etc.

Originally posted by: ananyaguptha

Nice update enjoyed reading
Thanks for giving us lengthy update
Good progress in prem relationship
Want to see the tom and Jerry type of prem heer back
Really enjoyed reading it the most
Pls continue soon eagerly waiting

Thanks for pm

CHAPTER 17

Later that afternoon, everyone but Prem was sitting in the living room chit chatting. "I can't wait to test out the pool!" Ashlesha said excitedly.

"Me too! I just want to be lazy and do nothing" Meher agreed. Heer looked around and noticed Prem missing. "Prem kaha hai?" She asked, to no one in particular.

Preet grinned and looked at Heer, "Where do you think?" he said.

Heer frowned a little, wondering what Preet meant, and then it hit her. Anyone who knew Prem Juneja also knew...if it's one thing he loved besides basketball...it was horses.

***************************************

The Juneja farmhouse was not just a lavish house. It was also a ranch for horses. When Prem was 16 years old, he wanted to take riding lessons. Never denying his sons anything, Lalit Juneja put Prem in lessons at the country club. Prem, however, not only excelled at the sport...he fell in love with horses. One day when Prem was finishing up his last riding lesson, Lalit saw Prem dismount. But instead of walking away, Prem stood in front of the horse. He then placed a gentle palm on the horse's face and whispered something to it. When the horse neighed, Prem placed a kiss on the horse's head and grinned.

Lalit's heart swelled with love for his older son...he wanted to always see Prem this happy. And so he had a horse ranch built behind the Juneja farmhouse and gifted it to Prem for his 17^th birthday. It was the best gift he could have given Prem, and Prem took on the responsibilities of running the ranch beautifully. He handpicked each and every horse that was housed, trained, and bred there.

At the moment, he approached one of the stable stalls and came face to face with a pretty brown colored mare...and she was heavily pregnant. Sensing Prem's presence, the pregnant mare walked to the opening of the stall and neighed pleasantly.

Prem chuckled and placed a loving hand on her head, "It's good to see you too girl...I see you're ready to be a mommy any day now huh?" Prem murmured, running a soothing hand over the mare's neck. Prem had a special place for this horse...she was rescued from her previous owner who mistreated her. Seeing her sad eyes and marked body, Prem paid double the price to buy her...and she has been in his farmhouse ever since. How someone can hit such a sweet soul...Prem will never understand.

This is how Heer found them when she walked into the stables. Prem gently caressing the pregnant mare's neck and the mare neighing appreciatively. There was so much tenderness in that moment that Heer felt herself wanting to capture it. Preet, Meher, Ash, and herself all knew how to ride horses...but Prem...Prem had a special love for them...and it was clear to see that love now.

Heer felt a pull in her gut, but didn't have time to ponder at the feeling when Preet spoke up, "Told you PB would be here." He said cheekily, to no one particular.

Prem turned and saw the gang enter the stables. Meher went straight to the stall next to the one Prem was standing in and took out an apple. A redish brown colored horse came to the opening and nipped the apple neatly off Meher's hand. Meher giggled and patted her favorite horse, Kohinoor. She always brought him apples whenever she visited him.

Preet walked a few stalls down and greeted his horse, Lightening, a pure white stallion that was gifted to him last year by Prem. "Hello my boy" Preet said, nuzzling Lightning's neck. Lightening playfully nipped Preet's shoulder, his playful personality matching his master's as Preet laughed at his horse's antics.

Ash walked up to Kohinoor's stall and both she and Meher pampered him. Kohinoor neighed and stomped his front hooves, loving the attention he was getting from the ladies.

Seeing the others busy in their own world, Heer walked closer and stood next to Prem. "She's new...did you recently get her?" Heer asked, observing the pregnant mare.

"Yea...a few months ago actually" Prem replied casually.

Heer lifted her hand to stroke the mare's face, but the mare took a step back in reflex, still unsure of strangers due to her past. Heer put her hand down, a little disappointed.

But what happened next surprised Heer. Prem shifted so he was standing directly behind her. "Here..." Prem murmured. He placed one hand on her waist and took her hand in his other hand. Prem held their connected hands up, palm out, and whistled. As if on cue, the mare walked closer and sniffed Heer's palm. Liking her scent, the mare nuzzled Heer's palm until Heer finally placed her hand on the mare's forehead, caressing her.

"See..." Prem whispered into Heer's ear, his breath warm against her skin, "she likes you..." He said. Heer smiled and gave the mare another gentle caress. Heer turned her head to thank Prem, but the words got lodged in her throat.

It hit her in that moment just how close Prem was standing to her, his chiseled chest pressed slightly against her back. Their eyes met...and the air around them shifted...it crackled...and it intensified.

Unknowing to them, Preet, Meher, and Ash stopped what they were doing and observed the two. It seemed that Heer and Prem forgot that there were other people in the room.

"Yeh kab se chal raha hai?" Ash murmured, stunned at the scene unfolding before her.

"Patha nahin...mein khud hehraan hoon...Prem bhaiya aur Heer didi?" Meher asked, trying to process this new development.

"Lagta hai...aag dono taraf lagi hai..." Preet observed, noticing that Prem bhai's presence was starting to affect Heer di also. "Should we leave them alone?" Preet whispered to Meher and Ashlesha, not sure what to do in that moment. The girls didn't get the chance to answer.

The moment was broken when Prem and Heer heard commotion coming from outside. There were heavy hoof beats, neighing, and a few shouts from various workers. Realizing the close proximity between him and Heer, Prem took a step back and tried to brush off the moment.

Heer and Prem awkwardly looked anywhere but at each other and the three that were still staring at them. Hearing more commotion from outside, the gang looked towards the entrance of the stables.

"What's happening out there?" Meher asked.

Prem and Preet looked at each other and a knowing look passed between the Juneja brothers. "Lagta hai Raja ko patha chal gaya keh Prem bhaiya aye hai. " Preet said, grinning. Prem smirked back and started walking to the compound outside, the gang in tow behind him.

True enough, multiple stable boys tried to control the all black stallion. Muscles rippling, Raja kicked his front two hooves and the reins snapped from one of the stable boy's hands. Raja neighed and kicked his hooves again, anxious for his master. He was a king indeed, his coat a shiny black, his stature larger than the other horses, his power unmatched. He huffed out a breath and neighed again, angrily. He stomped again when another stable boy came too close. No one can ride him but his master...no one. Raja only gave that right to Prem...and he felt it in his veins that his master was close. How dare he not come to see him?

Temper high, Raja was getting ready to kick again, but his master's commanding voice stopped him. "Raja! Stand down." Prem commanded, his voice authoritative.

Still angry, Raja moved around a little, his hooves stomping here and there. Prem hopped over the fence into the compound and approached Raja easily.

"Raja...I said stand down." Prem said again, his voice steady, but powerful. Man and beast stared each other down. Raja's muscles remained taught. Prem took hold of Raja's reigns and placed a hand on Raja's head. "Easy boy...I'm right here." Prem said, feeling Raja's temper fizzing out.

Raja neighed once...then twice, staring at Prem. "I know...I missed you too boy." Prem murmured, giving his face one more pat before hopping onto Raja's back. Raja kicked up and broke out into a high speed gallop. Running a few laps around the compound was not enough, Raja galloped and jumped over the fence.

It truly was a sight to see. Man and beast were one form. It was hard to say who was more powerful. Together, it looked like they would take over the world, and the world's defenses would crumble before them.

Heer felt a liquid pull in her stomach. This was a new sensation. She has seen Prem horseback riding in the past, but then why was it so different this time around? What was this hot pull she felt looking at him now? He was...she dare say it...sexy...so sexy. Everything around her faded as she saw nothing but Prem ride the magnificent beast.

Ashlesha nudged Meher and tipped her head towards Heer. "I don't think she even knows what she's feeling for Prem." Ash observed, liking the idea of Prem and Heer together.

Meher watched her elder sister and smiled, genuinely happy. "I'm just glad that Heer didi is finally moving on..." Meher replied.

Preet observed Heer and the way she was looking at Prem bhai. "Should we leave them alone now?" Preet whispered to Meher and Ashlesha again. "Ow!" Preet flinched when Meher hit his arm.

****************

After dinner, everyone retired to their rooms for a good night's sleep. Heer, however, tossed again, trying to find a comfortable spot on the bed. For some odd reason, she could not sleep. Frustrated, Heer sat up and leaned against the headboard.

What is wrong with her!?'' Heer thought, frustrated. When will she manage to sleep through the night again? Ever since Manmeet left her on their wedding day, Heer has not had a full night's sleep. Due to sheer exhaustion, her body eventually would doze off, but sleep would be fitful and restless.

But tonight...tonight she could not sleep at all. Something felt missing...the room just felt unbearably large and lonely. Kicking off the blanket, Heer pulled on a sweater over her pajamas and walked out. Maybe a quick stroll through the cool night air will help.

Heer walked aimlessly around the Juneja farmhouse, not knowing her destination. The uneasiness she felt remained and Heer tried to shake it off. Without realizing it, Heer stood in front of the stable entrance. It was dimly lit indicating that all the horses where put away in their respective stalls for the night and all the workers have gone to sleep.

Feeling a pull in her gut, Heer entered the stables. She heard it then...a soft neigh and a soothing murmur. Curious Heer walked in further and her eyes grew wide at the scene before her. The pregnant mare she met earlier today was lying down, breathing heavy. Prem was down on his knees by the mare's head, trying to sooth her as she felt the labor pains.

Without thinking, Heer rushed into the stall and knelt beside Prem. "Prem...she's getting ready to give birth!" Heer said, stating the obvious.

"Heer!? Thank god you are here!" Prem yelped, relieved. "I came into check on her one last time and found her like this. I need the vet! But I can't leave her alone. I don't know what to do!" Prem rambled, panic clearly evidence in his voice.

Heer look at Prem's face and noticed that he was a little pale from the worry. "Prem." Heer said, her voice calm, "Prem look at me." Heer said again, placing a hand on his shoulder. When Prem turned his worried eyes to Heer, she continued, "I'll stay here with her...go and get the vet."

"Lekin..." Prem cut it, not wanting to leave the mare alone.

"Prem...she needs help.." Heer said calmly, seeing the mare's eyes roll in pain as another contraction hit. "You know where the vet is...go and get him. I'll wait here." Heer encouraged, knowing that Prem needed someone to stay calm for him.

Prem looked at the mare and then at Heer, before he stood up to leave. He stood by the entrance of the stall and hesitated, looking down at Heer. "Please..." Prem said, "dyan rakna...she's...special..." he murmured, his face filled with worry like an expectant father.

Heer smiled, finding this side of Prem extremely adorable. "Don't worry papa. She will be just fine." Heer said, reassuring. Prem nodded and just as he turned to leave Heer called out to him, "Oh Prem!"

When he turned back with curiosity, Heer asked, "What's her name?"

Prem looked at the mare and gave her silent encouragement when she neighed at another painful contraction. He then looked back at Heer. "Sweetheart...she's Sweetheart." Prem replied.

Heer nodded, "Yes she is..." Heer agreed, and as Prem walked out the stables, Heer turned back to Sweetheart and murmured, "And...much to my surprise...so is he..." Heer said, discovering another side to Prem tonight. And this new side to Prem left a warm feeling inside Heer's chest.

****************************************

Once the vet arrived it was more of a waiting game for Prem and Heer. They took a seat right outside the stall and helped the vet in any way they could. Prem paced, he sat down...he stood up, and paced again.

"Will you calm down? She is fine." Heer said, getting slightly annoyed at Prem's constant movement.

"I can't help it!" Prem said, frustrated. "Why is it talking to long? What if she isn't strong enough? What if...what if..." Prem kept talking, panicking again.

Heer stood up and placed both her hands on his shoulders, stopping his rant, "Prem...she will be FINE." Heer emphasized. "Do you see her?" Heer turned them so they can see Sweetheart working through the labor pains. "You have taken extremely good care of her...she's beautiful. And she is a good...strong horse" Heer soothed as she felt Prem relax next to her.

"And the most important thing..." Heer continued. Heer waited a beat, building anticipation, as Prem waited for her to complete her sentence, "She doesn't have chicken legs like you." Heer finished.

Prem look at Heer, jaw dropping slightly. He never thought he would hear his nick name again. Heer gave him a fake sweet smile. There was a moment of silence...and then Prem started laughing. Heer was definitely returning to her old self.

"Yaar yahan mera hawa tight hai aur tujhe masaak sooj raha hai?" Prem replied to the insult.

Heer giggled, glad that her comment made Prem laugh, as it was meant to. "Sit down will you?...all we can do is wait." Listening, Prem sat down with Heer and waited.

After another moment of silence, Prem spoke again, "Waise...aaj bohut dinon badh tumhe hasthe hue dekha" Prem looked at Heer, his face serious, "Acha laga..." He murmured the last bit.

Heer stared into his warm whiskey colored eyes. The last bit sounding so intimate...that Heer felt that pull again in her belly. Heer opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted when the vet called out for help again.

Around 3:00am in the morning, Sweetheart gave birth to a stunning foal. Once the hay was replaced, the food and water replenished, and the foal checked for any injuries or abnormalities. Prem and Heer finally made their way back to the house around 4:00am.

CHAPTER 18

Prem squinted as the first rays of sunlight hit his face. He turned and tried to avoid waking up. But as he started to turn, his arm got stuck. Odd...'' Prem opened one eye to see what was wrong and came face to face with Heer, peacefully sleeping with her head on his arm.

His breath hitched...my god she was beautiful. He always knew that Heer Mann was attractive...but man was she always this breathtakingly beautiful?

A gust of wind came into the room and blew a lock of hair over Heer's sleeping face. Prem stared at her...mesmerized. She was captivating him without even trying. Prem reached up and very carefully, removed the lock of hair from Heer's face.

Heer shift slightly and snuggled closer to Prem's warm body. Prem froze, trying extremely hard to not move and wake Heer.

~Tujhe jeet jeet haaroon~

Prem felt his arm getting a little numb, but he still didn't move. Heer was finally sleeping peacefully, and he wanted to make sure that she remained undisturbed.

~Yeh praan praan varoon~

He felt this intense need to protect her...at all cost. He couldn't really pinpoint how it came to this. But he couldn't bear to see Heer hurting. When he saw Heer hurting...somehow...his heart started hurting for her.

~Hai aise main nihaaroon...Teri aarti utaaroon~

Prem couldn't seem to look away. He studied the curve of her cheek, the dip on her upper lip, the thick lashes. There was something so angelic about her.

~Tere naam se jurde hai saare naate ~

Prem could barely remember a time where he didn't know Heer. They have known each other since childhood and have had their lives intertwined for decades. Was there ever a time...where Heer and Prem were not connected to each other?

~Saiyyan...~

Seeing Heer shift again, Prem gently lifted her head and removed his arm, placing her on the pillow. He was careful to not wake her and rolled off the bed. He adjusted the blanket around her and started walking towards the door. Giving Heer's sleeping form one last look and trying to understand what was happening inside him...Prem quietly slipped out of the bedroom.

~Saiyyan...~

What Prem didn't notice, however, was that Heer in her sleeping state, drifted to Prem's previously occupied space. She unconsciously snuggled into the warmth he left behind and let out a peaceful sigh.

*************************************

Prem stepped out of the shower and saw Preet sitting on his bed. "Preet?" Prem asked, surprised to see his little brother up so early.

"Morning PB...I actually...wanted to talk to you about something..." Preet said, hesitantly.

Sensing that his little brother was serious, Prem sat down next to Preet and gave him his undivided attention. "Kya hua Bhai? Sab teek hai?" Prem asked, placing a comforting hand on Preet's shoulder.

Preet smiled at the gesture. He knew it. He knew that if anyone can give him undenying support...it would be his PB.

Preet reached into his pocket and took out the little velvet box. He popped open the lid and showed Prem the engagement ring nestled inside.

Prem's eyes widened seeing the ring and he looked at Preet. "You're thinking of proposing to Meher?" Prem asked, astonished.

Preet nodded, confirming. "I can't see spending my life with anyone else Bhai. And besides...mein bas propose karna chaata hoon...we both talked about it and decided that we don't want to get married until after college. But...I just want to propose and show her how serious I am about us..." Preet explained. "Am I doing the right thing?" Preet asked, knowing that Prem will always guide him in the right direction.

Prem studied his younger brother, seeing the quiet desperation and the fear in his eyes of what he is about to do. Prem placed both his hands on Preet's shoulders, "Mujhe nahin patha tha...ke mera chota bhai itna samajdaar ho gaya hai." Prem said, feeling extremely proud.

"You are doing the absolute right thing. And I am definitely by your side." Prem reassured. Preet smiled, genuinely happy to hear this as he felt his fears melt away.

"Actually...can I ask you something now?" Prem asked, trying to find the best way to word the question that has been bugging him.

When Prem saw Preet patiently waiting, he asked, "Tujhe kab pathah chala...ke tu Meher ko chahne laaga hai?"

Preet gave Prem a speculative look, realizing that the there was a Mann girl involved in this situation as well. Hiding his grin, Preet answered, "Before I didn't understand what I was feeling. I thought it was just friendship and it was normal to feel so protective of her. But over time..." Preet recalled, his mind going down memory lane, "...I realized that every little thing about Meher affected me. I was thinking about her constantly. When she was sad...I couldn't bear it. Aur jab meine usse hasteh hue dekha..." Preet remembered, smiling at the memory, "...aisa laga jaise..." Preet paused, trying to find the rights words to describe that feeling.

"Jaise...kadi dhoop mein pehli barish..." Prem murmured, "...jaise bohut dino baadh...ruki hui saans phir se ayi..." He said, realization dawning on him. This was exactly what it felt like when he saw Heer smile and finally laugh. He couldn't bear seeing her hurt...and it felt like a weight was lifted off him when she laughed and started to let go of her sorrow. He was developing feelings for Heer. Prem Juneja was starting to have feelings for Heer Mann.

Preet studied his PB. The emotions playing across his face as he realized what was happening with him. He was the one to now place a comforting hand on Prem's shoulder, "Heer di ko kab se chaate ho?" Preet asked gently.

Prem turned to Preet, shocked. "I..I...uhh...I don't know what you mean" Prem stuttered, trying to play it off.

Preet didn't want to push, so he decided to change the subject. "Let me go see if Meher is up. We'll start preparing for the picnic." Preet simply said, and with that he took his leave and left Prem alone with his thoughts.

*********************************

"Brijraj kaka...take this and put it with the rest." Meher instructed, handing Brijraj multiple water bottles. She was in the kitchen, assisting the workers in packing for the picnic. The gang was going horseback riding today. Once they reached a desired spot, they will have a picnic, relax, and eventually make their way back to the farmhouse before night fall. All in all, it was going to be a very relaxing day.

Meher left the kitchen to change into her riding attire when she bumped into Preet. "Arre Meher! I was just looking for you." Preet said excitedly, he grabbed her hand and pulled her to a secluded hallway, making sure no one was around.

"Kya kar rahe ho Preet! Common we have to leave soon!" Meher replied, trying to get out of her boyfriend's grip.

"Shh! I have to tell you something." Preet said, ignoring Meher's attempts to leave.

Seeing the smile on Preet's lips and the twinkle in his eyes, Meher stopped resisting and frowned, curious. Seeing that he had Meher's attention, Preet spoke, "PB is started to develop feelings for Heer di."

Meher's jaw dropped. She noticed that something was cooking between Prem and Heer from her observations yesterday, but her suspicions were now solidified with Preet's declaration.

"You mean...Prem bhaiya's falling in love?" Meher asked.

"Nahin...I don't think its love...yet." Preet responded, remembering his earlier conversation with Prem. "I think..." he continued, "...PB is starting to realize that he likes her...that Heer di is someone he wants to protect..." Preet concluded, a smile blooming on his handsome face at the thought of two of his favorite people in the world falling for each other.

Meher, however, frowned at the thought. "Lekin Preet...Heer didi was madly in love Manmeet...what if she doesn't feel the same way about Prem bhaiya? You know how they never got along since we were kids...agar heer didi neh Prem bhaiya ko tukhraya...toh Prem bhaiya ka dil toot jaye ga..." Meher said, voicing her concern.

Seeing the worried look on Meher's face, Preet placed a comforting arm around her shoulders. "Aisa kuch nahin hoga." Preet responded. Rubbing her arms, he continued, "...Mein PB ko acchi tarah se jaanta hoon...woh haar manne walo mein se nahin hai...Agar Heer didi koh koi phirse pyaar karna sikha sakta hai...toh woh sirf Prem bhaiya hai."

Meher looked at her boyfriend, admiring the blind confidence he had for his older brother. "And besides..." he continued, looking down at the love of his life, "...Mann girls are one of a kind...they are definitely worth the fight." He concluded, winking, bringing a smile to Meher's face.

****************************

Prem, Heer, Preet, Meher, and Ashlesha made their way to the stables, all in their riding clothes. The horses they will be taking where all prepped in riding gear, ready for the trip.

Preet went straight to Lightening and gave his neck a rub. "Ready my boy?" Preet asked, and Lightening neighed in response. He led Lightening outside and mounted him.

Following suit, Meher took the reins of Kohinoor and pulled him towards the entrance. Ashlesha was given the reigns of a tan colored horse by the name of Max. Following Meher, Ashlesha lead Max to the entrance and mounted him once they were outside as well.

"Marcus!" Prem called, getting the attention of one of the stable boys. "How are Sweetheart and the foal doing? Both healthy?" Prem asked.

"Yes Sir...the foal has been eating well so far." Marcus replied, respectfully. Both men turned and walked towards Sweetheart's stall. Prem intently listened to the updates Marcus was relaying to him.

As they got closer Prem noticed that Heer was already standing outside the stall, giving Sweetheart's neck a gentle rub. His heart gave one loud thud. Heer heard them approaching and turned. She looked at Prem and gave a small smile...and his heart gave another loud thud. Yea...he was definitely developing feelings for Heer Mann...Juneja...Prem corrected. He was developing feelings for Heer Juneja.

Prem was brought back to reality when Sweetheart shifted her attention to him. On cue, Prem placed a tender hand on her face and watched as Marcus entered the stall.

Heer stepped back slightly and let the men do their job. Prem asked a few follow up questions and Marcus responded. Marcus then approached the foal and the foal pivoted to avoid Marcus. Marcus shifted to try and get a hold of the foal, and the foal moved again and neighed playfully. It was definitely play time for him as he trotted around and kept avoiding Marcus.

Heer giggled at the scene and Prem chuckled as well. Sweetheart neighed at her son, as if she was telling him to behave. On cue, the foal stopped moving and let Marcus rub his hands over the foal, checking for any injuries.

"Everything looks good Sir...all that's left now is the name." Marcus said, now facing Prem. Prem looked at the foal, thinking. All the horses housed in the Juneja farmhouse were named by him.

The foal then came up to the entrance and neighed at Heer. Obliging, Heer went up to him and rubbed his neck. The foal closed his eyes and neighed again, loving the attention that was being given to him. Prem looked on, mesmerized yet again by Heer.

"Sir?" When Marcus called out, Prem was broken out of his trance and looked at the stable boy. "The name?" Marcus asked again.

Prem looked at Heer and then turned to Marcus, "Ask Heer...she will name this one." Prem said simply.

Surprised, Heer turned to look at Prem. "What? Really?" Heer asked, trying to confirm incase she misheard. Heer saw Marcus turn his attention to her, patiently waiting. She looked down at the foal and then back at Prem.

Prem titled his head towards the foal, letting Heer know that it was ok. The gesture gave Heer silent encouragement. Prem didn't need to speak for Heer to understand what he meant. Heer looked down at the foal, remembering his little playful display with Marcus earlier. "Mischief" Heer said.

Heer then turned to Marcus and said again, "His name is Mischief." Marcus looked at his boss for confirmation, and when Prem nodded, he walked away to put the name down in the official paperwork.

Heer look at Prem, trying to read his expression. He was looking at her, his face proud at the clever name she came up with...but there was something else there. Something else she couldn't quite figure out yet. And what was this feeling she was feeling inside herself? She couldn't deny that the gesture was unbelievably sweet, but was this feeling just her being grateful? She didn't have much time to ponder because their moment was interrupted when another stable boy came over to them and handed Heer the reins to a dark brown horse by the name of Layla.

Giving Heer one last look, Prem made his way to Raja's stall and brought him out. Heer and Prem both mounted their horses and trotted outside to the others. Before long, the whole gang was on their way.

**************************************

Everyone was having a wonderful time. It was a beautiful day and perfect for horseback riding. Ashlesha and Meher mostly trotted their horses. The Juneja brothers being boys, had a little race, which was soon joined by Heer. It was such an exhilarating experience, Heer thought, when a horse was galloping in their full speed.

They soon reached the end of the trail and dismounted. Each of them tied their horses to a tree, to avoid losing them and then settled down on the picnic blanket for some lunch.

Conversation was light and full of laughter. Anyone who saw this group from afar could tell that there was a strong bond between this group of people. Heer observed them and felt herself smiling. It felt good to finally feel like herself again. She didn't feel hollow anymore. Yes...the heartache was still there...but it no longer controlled her.

Yes...it truly was a beautiful day, Heer thought, and turned to stare at the horses grazing. "What are you thinking?" Heer turned to the voice and saw that Prem was looking at her, curiosity evident in his features.

Heer looked back out at the horses, "I was thinking...that after a long time...I'm feeling myself again." Heer replied, honestly. If anyone else had asked her that question, she might have come up with another answer. She was thinking how beautiful the scenery is...she was thinking how nice the weather is...anything else other than the truth. But when she saw that Prem asked her, she felt herself answering truthfully. She couldn't get herself to lie. Ever since the wedding, she was seeing so many different sides to Prem. He was the last person she expected to understand what she was going through. But he stepped in so beautifully...and took care of everything...took care of her. And that is why she spoke the truth to him...he deserved it.

Prem saw the emotions play across Heer's face. That intense need to protect her came back and Prem decided to change the subject to divert Heer's attention to something else.

"What do you think of Layla?" Prem asked casually. He shifted so he now sat right next to Heer and looked out at the horses.

"She's great..." Heer responded, "...a good...reliable horse...and she's beautiful..." Heer said, seeing Layla grazing the grass lazily. Raja bent down and nuzzled Layla's neck, the gesture almost flirty. Layla stomped her front hooves, causing Raja to take a step back. Heer giggled, "...She also has the right amount of spunk to keep the players at bay." She said playfully. Prem chuckled at the scene before him.

"Why do you ask?" Heer asked, turning to look at Prem.

"Breeding season is coming up in a few weeks...I'm thinking of matching Layla with Raja." Prem replied, "...but it looks like Raja has to step up his game to win this one over." He answered, playfully, causing Heer to laugh.

"That sounds fascinating. You know...after seeing Sweetheart give birth...the whole process looks so much more interesting." Heer replied, conversation flowing freely between them. "How do you know which horses are best matched?" Heer asked, genuinely curious.

Her eyes were sparkling with curiosity. Did she know that? Prem wondered, looking at Heer's face. She looked genuinely interested...face flushed from the breeze...and her eyes twinkled just like they used to.

"Tell you what..." Prem began, "...Mares are most fertile during the spring and I have to come back here in a few weeks for breeding season. Come back with me. You will get to see everything." Prem said, willing to do anything keep the sparkle in Heer's eyes.

Mission accomplished, Prem thought, when Heer's eyes widened at the idea and her smile bloomed.

*************************************

When twilight fell across the sky and the horses were tucked in for the night, Heer slid into her bed. Everyone was pretty exhausted from the whole day out and retired early to their bedrooms for a good night's sleep. So then why was Heer laying awake again tonight. She turned and tried to find a comfortable position, and looked out into the dark room...still no sleep.

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Heer sat up in bed and leaned against the headboard. What was wrong with her. She slept fine last night...in fact...she has the best sleep after ages last night. After watching Sweetheart give birth, she was too exhausted to even think and just remembered crashing that night.

But the room felt lonely again tonight. Not knowing what else to do, Heer kicked off the blanket and headed out the door. She walked aimlessly around the house again tonight. Not knowing where her feet were leading her.

It just so happened that she made her way towards the courtyard. It was a well kept garden on this side of the house, with a lavish pool in the middle. Maybe she will soak her feet in the pool for a bit and then head back to try and sleep again.

Satisfied with the plan, Heer maneuvered her way around the garden. She heard it first before she saw it. The splash of water. Someone was already there.

Walking past the clearing that lead to the pool, Heer saw strong back and shoulder muscles as the person swam laps around the pool. There were only the dim lights around the pool and the moonlight shining down. The person's shoulder muscles rippled as he cut through the water. Heer watched as the moonlight bounced off those wet muscles and felt that pull again in her belly.

Prem felt that he was no longer alone. He surfaced and combed his hair back. Turning, he came face to face with Heer.

"Heer?" Prem asked, surprised to see her.

Heer watched droplets of water trail down his chiseled chest. His thick mass of hair was combed back, exposing his whole face. The dim lights only highlighted his strong features. Heer felt her breath catch...and another pull shoot through her belly.

"You're not sleeping yet?" Prem asked, when Heer simply stared at him.

"I...umm..." Heer stuttered, trying to find the right words, "...Yea...yea...I couldn't sleep...so I decided to come out for a walk..." Heer finally said, struggling to focus.

Prem smirked and his eyes got a certain gleam in them. He affected her. Seeing the way she was looking at him...he definitely had an effect on her. Liking the idea, Prem slowing treaded to the side of the pool.

Looking up at Heer, he finally spoke, "Any particular reason why you couldn't sleep?" Prem asked, his voice lowering...becoming huskier as he spoke those words.

Heer stared at him, his arm muscles glinting under the light...wet...strong...

"Uhhh...no...no...no reason." Heer mumbled, deliberately looking away.

"Mere vaja se neend nahin aa rahi hai?" Prem asked bluntly, his eyes mischievous.

Heer's eyes widened at the straight forward question. "No! Why would you even say that!?" Heer replied defensively.

Prem chuckled and raised his hands up, showing he meant no harm with his comment. "Mein masak kar raha hoon yaar." Prem said as he reached the edge of the pool.

He rested his arms on the edge and looked up at Heer, "Aur vaise bhi...neend churana koi bari baat nahin hai. Agar saansein chura loon...toh baat hai..." Prem said, his face turning serious, "...dhadak te dil ka betaabiyaan chura loon...toh baat hai..." Prem whispered, hoping that one day he will take away all of Heer's pain. He then titled his head and continued, "...rooh ki tapish chura loon...toh baat hai..." He replied, not breaking eye contact with Heer.

Heer felt her throat close and her breath hitch. Those words...they were just so intimate. His voice seemed to caress her skin...and the way Prem was looking at her...Heer didn't know what to feel.

"I...should head back..." Heer said, breathlessly, and turned to leave.

"Wait!" Prem called out, the wheels in his head turning as he thought of reasons to keep her a little while longer, "...can you hand me that towel before you leave?" He said.

Heer looked back at Prem, his face innocent. Seeing no harm, Heer took the towel placed on the lounge chair and walked over to Prem. She leaned down and held out the towel for Prem.

Prem grabbed the towel, and before Heer could react, he grabbed her wrist with his free hand and pulled Heer into the pool. Heer shrieked before she went head first into the water, causing a big splash.

Heer surfaced and sputtered water. Trying to regain her balance, she combed her hair back to see Prem laughing. Seeing the shocked look on Heer's face, Prem laughed harder.

Forgetting Prem's intense words from earlier, Heer felt laughter in her throat as well and tried to look mad. Prem continued to laugh. Not being able to help herself, Heer let out a giggle and splashed water at Prem. "You are so dead!" Heer yelled, and lunged towards Prem.

Heer placed both her hands on Prem's head and pushed him under water. Prem wrapped his arms around Heer's waist and picked her up, tossing her under water in retaliation. Heer slithered away from Prem's grasp and ducked him under water again. After a few minutes of the playful fighting, both were still laughing.

As Heer was about to push him under again, Prem grabbed onto both her wrists and pulled her to him. Underestimating the force behind his pull, Heer collided into him.

Their laughter died down as Prem and Heer realized their close proximity. Their upper bodies were meshed together as Prem held onto both her wrists. She felt the heat of his bare body through her wet clothes, and felt her heartbeat quicken.

The air around them caught on fire. There was nothing playful about the atmosphere now. Prem's eyes intensified and he looked down at Heer's wet lips. Heer felt her breath hitch. Why was she feeling like this? Why couldn't she pull away?

He let go of Heer's wrist and placed his hands around her waist under water. Heer thought this was the perfect time to pull away...but she felt herself place her hands on his hard chest. Prem tilted his head a little, flirting with the idea of how her lips would taste.

As he was about to lean in, Prem and Heer heard a scream from inside the house. Prem and Heer jumped away from each other as if they were burned. They looked at each other. Heer's eyes were wide...she was stunned at what was about to happened between them.

There was another scream from the house. Not saying anything, Prem got out of the pool and extended his hand to Heer. After a moment of hesitation, Heer took it and Prem pulled her out of the pool.

Wrapping the extra towel around herself, Prem and Heer rushed into the house to see what all the commotion was about.

When they entered the living room, they saw Meher with her eyes watery and Ashlesha holding up Meher's hand. Preet was standing to the side grinning.

Meher turned to see Heer and Prem walk and rushed to her elder sister, hugging her. "Didi! Look! Preet proposed to me!" Meher squealed, holding out her hand to show the engagement ring.

"WHAT!" Heer exclaimed, and when she grabbed Meher's hand and got a closer look at the ring, her jaw dropped. Looking back at Meher's face, Heer didn't know what else to do but hug her, feeling ecstatic at the good news.