AshNi Bas AshNi..Story So Far..NO COMMENTS PLEASE - Page 2

Ashu nidhi must have slept for really long ..as when ashu got up n saw his watch ,it was 12.30...the fatigue of lovemaking...he thought,but then the thought came to him that nidhi needed to eat at regular intervals,he got up,dressed n ordered soup,fries,sandwiches without cheese n cutlets..
Then he woke nidhi.."utho nidhi..khana kha lo.."nidhi seemed to be lost in bliss..but then moved ..n as she opened her eyes ..she realized she was still disrobed..pulling up the quilt,she blushed..ashu smiled,raised his eyebrow n said.."mujhse sharmaa rahi ho!!"n he gave her a nightie n blue gown..nidhi realzed she had not unpacked.."sorry dr ashutosh..maine unpack nahi kiya,subah kar doongi pukka"ashu smiled n said"relax..tum enjoy karne aayi ho.."the bell rang n ashu got the dinner laid in the sitting room of the cottage.nidhi got up but somehow ashu was not sure of her footing,holding her he made her sit on the dinig chair n served.nidhi ate but not much..she looked up n asked ashu.."aap nahi khaayenge"?ashu smiled n started,
After dinner nidhi tried to get up but seemed to stagger..ashu caught her by the waist..n looked into her eyes ..concerned..nidhi smiled"kuch nahi,neend aa rahi hai.."as she went to the washroom,ashu told strictly,"door lock nahi karna nidhi..plz"n his worried gaze was fixed at the toilet door.nidhi stepped out n came to the bed..ashu opened her gown,n put her to bed..looking like a doll in that sky blue nightie.he sat to flip thru. A magazine but she kept twisting n turning..smiling ashu got up,came to bed..put one arm under hern as she i nstinctively nestled closer..he put his other arm on her breasts..she was fast asleep..secure,loved n protected..ashu smiled n was lost in thoughts..n finally sleep conquered him too..
In the morning ashu was awakened by a chirpy nidhi.."uthiye,dekhiye kitna bright din hai..maine sab unpack kar liya hai..ab breakfast ke baad mall road,phir shopping,cable car...""anh aanh !interjected ashu pulling her into his arms..."dr nidhi ashutosh aap bhool rahi hain ki aap 3 months pregnant hain..so..be careful"nidhi made a pout n said "tab aap bataaiye dr ashutosh..kya plan hai?"ashu snuggled her close n said.."pehle breakfast phir thoda walk..n lunch..""aur afternoon me..naukachiya tal"said nidhi.ashu looked at her n said"afternoon me to mera kuch aur hi plan hai...n hugged her tighter"a blushing nidhi tried to get up but suddenly seemed dizzy..ashu caught her"kya hua nidgi..chakker aaya phir?"nidhi shook her head n got up with an effort..ashu looked at her with a hawk eye..of a senior dr..nidhi smiled n said"chaliye,bhool gaye mujhe time pe khana chahiye"ashu smiled n got ready..
After breakfast they came to the room for woolens n camera..ashu said"ek minute nidhi..b.p check karne do"ashutosh seemed tense..145 by 95..better but still high..nidhi smild n asked "kitna hai"ashu said"yeh meri problem hai..yaad hai tum meri intern thi..isliye meri biwi ki care mujh oar hi rehne do"
They walked on the mall,looking at the lovely lake n the pristine surroundings..nidhi wanted to eat chaat but ashu glared n she held her ears!!!!as afternoon approached clouds enveloped the lake n the couple sat on a bench to enjoy the beauty..
Ashu spoke.."you know nidhi..mai poori duniya ghooma hoon..medical conferences me..par itnia sukoon kahin nahi mila..kabhi nahi mila..jaanti ho kyun?"nidhi asked..ashu contd."kyunki mai akelepan se ghira rehta tha..apne quile mey quaid..koi saathi nahi tha...""dr mallika bhi nahi?"nidhi spoke..ashu looked at her.

After the walk to the hotel nidhi seemed tired...she went into the washroom,changed and slumped on to the bed..by the time ashutosh came after changing,she was asleep..his eyes seemed to examine her..he was rather shocked than surprised to see a tiny but distinct baby bump..12 weeks was certainly early..his gaze travelled further down n he observed her swollen feet.."oh my god!!this must be hurting"he wanted to massage her feet but feared she d wake up..so he softly lifted her feet n put a big pillow under them as nidhi seemed to smile at his familiar touch..ashu slipped into the bed n kept looking at nidhi..for long,trying to answer variour apprehensions in his mind..
Nidhi woke up at 7 in the evening and seemed to be looking better.ashu brought a tub of hot water with salt in it n made her put her feet in it,while he sat on the ground to massage them."arre aap mere pairon ko haath nahi lagaaiye..plz"cried nidhi.ashu raised his eyebrow n said"kyun nahin..mai tumhe kahin bhi aur kabhi bhi haath lagaa sakta hoon.."his naughty smile made nidhi blush..she said"i m sorry..mai so gayee afternoon mein..thak gayee thi.."her voice apologetic about the lost moment of intimacy..ashu looked at her n said in a serious tone"nidhi,less of walking from tomorrow.."he stopped midway as nidhi arched her back..dr in him looked intently.."kya..back ache?""hu.."answered nidhi..symptoms were early ..thought ashutosh..why??anyway,first he had to bring relief to nidhi..so he made her lie on her side after wiping her feet dry n raised her pyjama top.his strong n deft fingers began to massage her lower back..as she seemed to relax in relief..ashu asked"feeling better..?"concern showed in his voice..nidhi nodded..she indeed seemed better n turned to say.."aap to massage expert hain.."n then blushed when she realised the naughty glint in his eyes!!!
They changed for dinner,ashu into his black suit n nidhi in a blue churidaar kurta n a black cardigan.in the restaurant,the band was playing as they had dinner ,finally ashu brought her to the balcony to gaze at the lake..
Nainital by night seemed another world..thousands of bulbe glittering n reflections glimmering inthe lake..nidhi was awe struck..she could have gazed on n on ..mesmerized ,had ashu's phone not rung.it was baba..asking about nidhi's welfare.Ashu said she was doing fine but his voice wasnt v convincing.. he added that they d be home in 2 days so there was no panic.nidhi took the phone n told him all about the beauty of the lake..n her teddy shopping too!!
At night nidhi turned to ashutosh..n touching his cheek she said.."mai aapse kuch poochna chahti hoon.."ashu,a little surprised put his arms around her n said.."poocho na..kuch bhi poocho.."nidhi,evaded his eyes n asked,"dr ashutosh...kya aap mujhse khush hain..?"ashu looked at her..smiling at her selfdoubt..n said"tumhe kyun laga ki main khush nahi hoon?..nidhi tum meri khushi hi nahi ..meri zindagi ho.."nidhi 's eyes filled up with tears.."hey doc !kya hua ?"said a surprised ashu..nidhi said nothing ..just nestled cl8ser..ashu held her tightly n kissed her on the forehead..
In the wee hours ashu was awakened out of his sleep by a sound of sobbing..as he opened his eyes..he saw nidhi weeping inconsolably.."kya hua nidhi..dard hai?"nidhi shook her head.."nahi..bus dar lag raha hai.."nidhi whispered..ashu asked"kis baat ka dar nidhi?"nidhi..gulped.."i dunno..mujhe lagta hai mai aapse door na chali jaaoon..dr ashutosh..i cant live without you..mai aapke bina saans bhi nahi le sakti..."n she continued to sob..ashu brought her close ..she was trembling like a scared sparrow..he knew her sixth sense had read worry in his eyes..words couldnt have comforted her..he kissed her eyes ,her lips n made her lie..he put his lips to her baby bump as if to tell her that he would save her n their child..what started as a gesture of care n security soon turned to full blown passion,with nidhi wanting more n more of him..n crying his name softly..as he buried his head between her breasts...as he kissed her eyes..she dug her nails intohis shoulder blade almost flaring with desire..ashu kissed every square inch of her..biting n sucking her taut nipples..ridding her off all worries n finally both united..n reached a world of ecstacy where they shuddered in each others arms..waves of pleasure sweeping away all apprehensions..
The next day ashu drove nidhi to naukachiatal..25 km away.it was a v .quiet spot away from the hustle n bustle of nainital..they sat on a bench under a flower laden gulmohar n just enjoyed their togetherness in silence...
A tea wendor came by n ashu nidhi smiled at each other..ashu stopped him n took two teas in earthen cups..nidhi n ashu held the cups n raising the toast said"yeh adrak ki chai..humaari khushi ke naam,humaari aane waali zindagi ke naam..humaare har pal ke naam"
It was dark as they drove back to nainital..n could see the lamps reflecting in the lake..nidhi remembered ashu's favourite song from an old movie silsila.."kal agar na roshni ke kaafile hue?"she looked up at asutosh..n said to herself"pyaar ke huzaar deep hain jale hue..."

Return to lucknow...
Ashutosh nidhi checkedout in the morning,after breakfast.ashu had been prudennt enough to get lunch n snacks packed.as they drove out,he stopped one last time for both of them to savour the lovely lake..n then drove off..carrying beautiful memories that they had created...on the way back,ashu encouraged nidhi to sleep most of the time.she woke up to eat n finally when they reached lucknow,she was not in a bad shape.ashu took her home,baba was overjoyed to see them,but ashu said"baba,aap nidhi se baat kariye,mai zara hospital dekh ke aata hoon,kal subah most of the staff has to leave for the camp"nidhi said,"chaliye,mai bni chaloon!"ashu signalled her to stay put ,adding,"tum aaj aaraam karo,zarroorat hui to kal help loonga,chalta hoon,so jaana,mujhe der hogi"
Nidhi told baba the fun they had had,their trip to lake side,naukachiya tal..
Baba,a senior dr himself,could see ashu's cause of worry..he didnt say anything to nidhi but made her have dinner n then told her to retire.nidhi did the unpacking,arranged dr ashutosh's wardrobe,she knew he liked his things prim n proper..n then changed n drifted off to sleep.Dr ashutosh returned at 12.30 in the night,kaka opened the door,ashu asked,"kaka,nidhi ne khaaya"?kaka said"haa beta,dr sahib ne usse khila diya aur woh sone bhi chali gayee,tumhare liye laga duun"?ashu nodded,he ate a little,n then went straight for a shower as he was v tired.Ashe came out,in his blue tees n track lengths,he observed nidhi had unpacked n arranged everything..he swallowed hard..how she knew his requirements..he looked at her sleeping..n there in her arms was the pink teddy..the first toy of their baby..ashu smiled..he then remembered nidhi's feet n checked for the swelling.they seemed ok,n he heaved a sigh of relief,slipped into the bed...nidhi probably sensed his presence,n put the teddy onthe other side n tried to shift to him...ashu came by n took her in his arms..the two slept soundly.
Next morning,as the two sat gor breakfast with baba,ashu dialled dr sudhir n asked him as to when should he get nidhi for the check up n first ultra sound,sudhir gve an appointment for the next evening.as ashu shared this ,baba asked"ashu,dont you think nidhi k8 abhi chutti le leni chahiye..kuch din..?"ashu nodded n said"dekhte hain baba,lets see what sudhir says tomorrow"n then he looked at nidhi,"tum kya chahti ho"?just as nidhi was going to reply,dr ashutosh's phone rang..n he seemed to be in v great tension...left his breakfast n got up, n ended,"dont worry,we r rushing"he looked at nidhi n said,"st agnes' school bus has had an accident,40 odd kids have been injured,some of them seriously,they r being rushed to kotnis as that is the closest..nidhi,i need you today,as only i n dr ranganath r there with a few nurses,rest are at the camp...do you think you d manage..?"nidhi saw the conflict of a dr n a husband..she got up n said,"dr ashutosh,i am fine,,n aaphi ne sikhaaya tha..we are drs first..chaliye"
As ashutosh nidhi entered kotnis,there was confusion,with the injured kids crying n the nervous parents l8oking for their children.
Dr ashutosh,the M.D immediately took charge,seeing the cases,transferring them for first aid,wards, n 3 had to be lined up for surgery.dr ranganath,pacified the parents,told them the kids were being given the best care..while nidhi literally ranfrom one bed to nother,administering medicines,injections n first aid.then she got the O.T ready for the first case,a child of 12 with a frontal lobe injury.Dr ashutosh came in,nidh was already masked,the surgery behan n his fingers sealed the bleeding,as usual he said"doc,will you sew him for me?"nidhi nodded,he left for the rounds,all kids were out of danger ,except two,who needed to be operated.he told dr ranganath to relieve those kids who had been given first aid n were completely out of danger,but all had to be called after 2 days for a check up.ranga nodded.dr ashutos reached for the second surgery that was quite simple..n after that when he returned to his cabin,he asked dr ranganath for the situation.he was appraised that out of 43,38 kids had been relieved,2 were recuperating after surgery,2 were admitted because they had had fractures n dr nidhi had put slings afterx rays,only one kid needed to be operated more..but it was a difficult case,as the child was only 4 years old n had sustained multiple head injuries,dr nidhi came in with his scans n ashu looked at them..he realized,the internal bleeding wad causing pressure on the cerebellum...he looked at nidhi,"is he conscious?"nidhi replied,"barely so.."ashu got up decisively.."lets rush nidhi otherwise we will lose him"
They were in the O.T again,ashu tried to seal the haemmorrhage,n clean the lobes..while nidhi kept a check at the vitals..pulse,heart beat..somehow it was fifficult to locate the tiny miniscule leaks,n it took even a surgeon like ashutosh more than 6 hours to finish the job successfully..without saying anything,nidhi took the task of sewing so that dr ashutosh could go n wind up other things.she had the baby shifted into the i.c.u n then appraised the tense parents.the mother hugged nidhi n her tears of thankfullness said it all..nidhi smiled.she had not failed as a doctor..n more importantly,she had not failed as dr ashutosh's junior..she closed her eyes...the world seemed to be in a whirl..when two nurses caught her n made her sit.
Someone knocked at dr ashutosh's cabin,just as he was finishing up ..all kids had been saved..n only5 were in the hospital..all out of danger..his work was interrupted by the knock n before he could say ,two nurses brought in a semi conscious nidhi...ashu's heart seemed to have stopped.
He immediately held her n carried her to the sofa ,rubbed her hands..n looked at her feet..oh jesus,swoolen like hell.he removed her sandals,n rubbed her soles,she opened her eyes..n tried to get up.his firm hand stopped her from doing so.
He told the nurses to carry on with the duties n dr ranganath will have to stay back n be the incharge n ashutosh would rush in if there was any scare..all nodded n left.
Ashu ,now concentrated on nidhi..it was 9 in the night,she had been working for 12 hrs..non stop..in this condition..his heart wrenched..but at the same time he felt v proud of his nidhi..he opened a juice packet n pressed it to her dy lips..she seemed to suck it all up..he had to say,"dheere,dheere nidhi"she closed her eyes again..
Ashutosh told the wardboy to keep the door of the car open as he carried his bundle of love..n placed her gently on the seat.He started the car ,hoping that in the usual ten minutes they d be home..but fate had other plans...

As ashu drove by clarks awadh,he got caught in a major traffic jam..first it seemed it d clear soon but it only grew worse with time and at about 10,the people realised ,it was caused by agitators of a political party n there was no hope of it opening..in the mean time,nidhi who had been asleep seemed to open her weary eyes n asked,"dr ashutosh..paani,plz"ashu looked at her n extended his hand for the water n juice that he always carried now ,when nidhi was with him...oh no!!!in panic of seeing a fainted nidhi he had forgotten the juice n water..he looked at nidhi she seemed to know n said.."koi baat nahi,ghabraaye mat,mai theek hoon"..ashu could see her trying to wet her parched lips with her tongue,..if only he could find a mineral water vendor..but the jam was so thick now that he couldnt have even opened his door..he banged the steering in frustration..as nidhi seemed to wince in discomfort..ashutosh looked at her feet..they were a pitiable sight..badly swollen,if she could put them up...but there wasnt a way to do so..nidhi moaned n arched..ashu's face whitened"kya hua..nidhi..nidhi..dard hai?"nidhi nodded n pushed her hand to her back..ashu understood,she was pregnant,tired after a long day n her back was hurting..ashu,loosened his tie in anger,held the steering with his right hand n tried to massage nidhi's back with his left hand..a tear trickled from nidhi's eyes as she held on to her baby bump..ashu had never felt so helpless before..did anyone in the procession realize that by their mindless actions,they were putting the lives of so many like nidhi to risk...he looked at his nidhi..concern n compassion not only for his wife but for the selfless dr,who had risked her comfort to save lives but was now in grave discomfort..
Finally he moved the lever of the seat n brought it to 170 degrees..nidhi seemed more peaceful,but her feet were still hanging n swollen..
Finally the traffic seemed to inch ahead ..but the turn to indira nagar where ashu lived was still away,what could he do!!!nidhi twisted in agony.."dr ashutosh.."ashutosh touched the baby bump gingerly...was it hurting there..?he shuddered at the thought..just then he saw a narrow lane to the right ,which could take him to...he somehow turned,scratching the car against the divider,but didnt bother..he dialled col verma
"Ji,col verma,mai ashutosh..actually we r stuck in a major jam..cant reach home,nidhi is v uncomfortable col verma,she needs rest..i have taken the lane to aalam bagh..kya hum aapke yahaan aa jaaye,aaj raat ke liye.."?col verma said"ashutosh,yeh bhi koi poochne ki baat hai..foren aa jaao,"ashu added,"plz sir,nidhi ka bed room,uske kapde aur khaana ready karwa deejiye..she is not good..col verma.."ashu hung up as nidhi again pressed her back..ashu didnt rub her back now,he instead manouvred the alleys to finally reach col verma's house at 11.10..nidhi had been without food n rest for 14 hrs..
Col verma,dadi bua n solankis were waiting in tension,in the lawn..ashu stopped the car n opened nidhi's door.nidhi was unconscious..ashu carried her in his arms in to the hall n laid her on the sofa with pillows under her feet.'"chote sarkaar,paani"col verma rushed with the water,ashu lifted nidhi to sitting position as he opened her eyes.."nidhi,paani piyo..dheere dheere"said ashu,nidhi complied,he looked around n db was ready with juice bottle,he pressed it to nidhi's lips who seemed to gulp greedily..nidhi looked better now..ashu threw off his jacket n tie and asked cs to get hot water in a tub.he added salt,made nidhi sit up n put her feet in hot water ,as he sat on the ground to press the swelling down..shyama aunty said,Dr ashutosh,aap rehne de,mai kar doongi"ashutosh,looked at shyama n shook his head in a no.
As ashu kept massaging n washing nidhi's feet,all around them..col verma,dadi bua,solankis n chote sarkaar were misty eyed at the very special bond that this couple 18 years apart,shared..fially ashu wiped nidhi's feet n cs announced dinner.solankis bade goodnight as they blessed nidhi n shook ashu's hand.

Nidhi ate aaloo matar n roti,but not her favourite paneer mahrani,dadibua was dismayed but ashu explained how nidhi's tastes were changing..nidhi came n lay on the sofa while db stuffed ashu..
When ashu got up,nidhi was asleep on the sofa,as cs was getting chai
i,he sat n nidhi immediately put her head in his lap..col verma looked on n smiled..smile of a secure father who knew his daughter was deeply loved by someone..
Col verma told that he had phoned dr mathur n he was fine..ashu thanked him n as he got up,col verma couldnt help saying,"ashutosh..aapse zyaada nidhi ka khayaal koi nahi rakh sakta...thank you.."ashu just looked at col verma n smiled,he carried nidhi to the room n then changed into a kurta pyjama kept on the bed..surprisingly it fitted him..couldnt have been col verma's thought ashu!!
As he lay next to nidhi,he looked around the room.,the same room where he had come to try the engagement ring on nidhi...n his nidhi had hugged him..ashu blushed at the thought that he had felt shy of hugging her back..nidhi had told him that in this very room ,she had missed him a lot...he recalled those phone calls..n months of pain,agony n separation..but then smiled as his gaze settled on nidhi..his wife..pregnant with his child..they had come a long way indeed..nidhi had been right when she had said"yaadein jab such ho jaayein,to yaadon ko ghar nahi chahiye hota.."

Nidhi's check up
While ashu slept pretty soundly in nidhi's old room,nidhi herself seemed to miss theor bedroom..n had a troubled sleep.when ashu got up n groped for her in the morning,she was not in the bed..he looked around,he could hear the tap inthe wash room n opened the door,to find nidhi washing her face.."hey doc..kaisa laga apne room me sona"?nidhi smiled,v weakly..ashu looked intently ,there was blood on the towel n also in the basin.."kya ..kya hua nidhi..u r having nose bleeding..mujhe kyun nahi uthaya?"nidhi answered,"abhi,brush karne uthi to..suddenly.."ashu didnt bother to listen to the full sentence..he brought her back to the bed n made her lie..he went outside to his car n took out his bag ,it had the b.p. instrument.he came in n measured nidhi's b.p...175 by 100..disturbingly high for 14 week..he sat by nidhi ,running his fingers in her hair..trying to put her to sleep..sleep she did eventually n when she got up,dr ashutosh was already ready toleave for hospital.ashu looked at her n asked"abhi kaisi ho?"nidhi nodded.ashu said he had had his breakfast n was leaving for kgh.he will come at 4 p.m to pick her up for the check up n then will take her home..till then she could enjoy with db n col verma
Ashu had already talked to col verma,nidhi tried to get up to say bye..but he stopped n told her to rest..he also assured her that he would give a kiss to the little boy they had operated upon the previous day.
Nidhi strangely felt lonely,though it had been her home for 24 years..yet now she was missing mathur mansion..baba n kaka,that was her world..that was where she belonged to..finally she took her cell n dialled baba,"baba,mai nidhi..aapne naashta kiya?"baba laughed n said"han maine to kiya,tu apna bata..maike me kya chal raha hai"?nidhi didnt know why but she felt like crying..baba sensed it"kya hua nidhi?bata bete..ashu ne kuch kaha?"dr mathur ,though nidhi's nana,had always felt towards n8dhi as a father in law n he adored her bcoz she had brought spring into the dull mathur mansion..nidhi said"nahi baba,bus ghar ki yaad aa rahi hai..man nahi lug raha yahaan"dr mathur smiled,he told her to talk to her father..after all he also needed her company.nidhi kept quiet..
While db n col verma kept nidhi engaged the whole day,they couldnt help observing,nidhi looking at the clock..again n again..
Ashutosh,had reached the hospital,assessed the cases,drs had returned from the camp,the children were fine..n he gave a tender kiss to the little one who was now conscious.Ashu talked to sudhir about nidhi's b.p n nose bleed,read gynae books to wisen himself ..n was deeply concerned..was this pregnancy a threat to nidhi..?his brow was furrowed..when he realized it was time to leave for col verma's place.
Nidhi had changed n was sittinng in the hall,as soon as she heard the familiar footsteps of dr ashutosh,she rushed out..n almost slipped when she was held securely by those strong familiar arms.. sainyaa..ashu took her n almost scolded her only to melt away as she held her ears..col verma n db smiled,db added"daaktar,ab nidhi ka jee nahi lagta,tumhaare bina..kab se ghadi dekh rahi hai.."ashutosh smiled as he touched db n cv feet..
Ashutosh's car entered dr sudhir mishra's residence,tension was visible on his face..nidhi sensed it ,touched his arm n asked"kya hua??darr lag raha hai papa banne mein?"n ashu just smiled n patted her hand.
Dr sudhir first talked to nidhi,as ashutosh sat silently,he was trying to assess if there was any underlying tension that was the cause of nidhi's b.p.He finally seemed to find none..n smiled at nidhi asking her"ready for the check up"?nidhi nodded..looking at ashutosh..trying to read his eyes..what were they hiding from him?
Dr sudhir told the nurse to take nidhi n ready her for the examination..with nidhi gone ,sudhir looked at dr ashutosh n said,"emotionally,she seems fine..we need to check her medically..this high b.p cant be without a reason..n you know it can be dangerous to her.."ashutosh finally spoke "yes sudhir ,i know..n im scared..her welbeing matters the most for me..if necessary,we can abo.."the nurse entered to inform that nidhi was ready..both the doctors went in.
Dr sudhir got a screen placed above nidhi's abdomen,a standard practice to maintain the patients privacy.As he wore his gloves ,he looked at ashutosh,who came to the doctor..sudhir pressed the abdomen,did the cervical check up..n as nidhi seemed to move,dr ashutosh peeped across the screen,nidhi was in discomfort...he came close n held her ,as dr sudhir continued his examination.finally,as he discarded his glove,he looked at ashutosh n said,lets proceed for the ultrasound.The nurse adjusted nidhi's gown and as she was wheeled to the ultra sound room,dr ashutosh walked with her..looking very concerned.
In the room,her baby bump was exposed,while the pelvis was covered with a sheeth,the nurse called dr sudhir..just as he came in,nidhi held ashu's hand n spoke"we will see our baby for the first time..hain na jee?"ashu smiled n pushed back her hair.
Dr sudhir applied a gel on nidhi's lower abdomen and pressed the probe.,images appeared on the screen,due to the doppler effect,they d hear the heart beat too,nidhi knew..after all she was a dr herself..yet when suddenly the heart beat reverberated..she looked on to the screen,trying to see..but tears blinded her..dr ashutosh bent down to hold her hand..hewiped her tears..and nidhi whispered,"can you hear it..dr ashutosh?can you hear it?"ashutosh ,the husband nodded agfectionately,but ashutosh the dr had his gaze fixed on the screen...finally sudhir removed the probe n told the nurse,"clean the patient n ready her for further investigations"He looked at Ashutosh n signalled him to come out.dr ashutosh caressed nidhi's hand n went to dr sudhir's cabin.
Sudhir was a dr,who believed in being honest .he looked at a worried Ashutosh n as both sat,he played the dvd of the ultrasound again,pointing certain details to ashutosh..n finally said,"ashutosh,this trans abdominal ultrasound hasnt been very informative,i need to have a better look at the foetus n thus will do a trans vaginal ultrasound,want to assess before we decide the future course.."dr ashutosh nodded..he knew sudhir was right,but trans vaginal ultrasound could be painful..nidhi had winced even in cervical examination...thought ashutosh..seeing her in pain made him helpless..he was ready to sacrifice all to have her feel comfortable..he gulped in silent pain..
Dr ashutosh entered the room as nidhi lay,cleaned n exposed..he held her hand n answered the question in her eyes."dr sudhir wants to do a trans vaginal ultrasound..to have a better look at the foetus..nidhi,dont be nervous,main hoon na.."nidhi kept quiet but her hand touched her baby bump..n she looked up at dr ashutosh..he put his hand on hers...with a deep look in his eyes.
Dr sudhir entered,asterile probe in a sheath ,connected to the ultra sound was handed over to him,he bent n deftly inserted it into nidhi.."ouuuch"..cried nidhi n ashutosh winced,he put his hand on nidhi's hair,trying to steady her as she rocked her head in pain.."nidhi..nidhi,bas ho gaya,plz."he held her strongly by the shoulders but his voice quivered..nidhi moaned in agony.."dr ashutosh.."dr ashutosh bent down to her n hid her contorted face in his chest..holding her steady..
Dr sudhir looked at the images v carefully..n then pulled out the probe ..that made nidhi almost yell in pain..she lay back,exhausted n pale.Ashu patted her cheek,"bas,bas,ho gayaa..its over.."The nurse took over to clean nidhi ,as ashutosh came to sudhir who was studying the slides intently..he looked up n told ashu to sit.
"We have finally found out..nidhi is 14 weeks pregnant but the foetus is showing a development seen at 17 to 18 weeks.."ashutosh was shocked..sudhir went on"yes,the crown to heel length should be 4.3 inches,but its nearly 6.7n the mass is 180 grams..almost double of what should be..the fact is ashutosh,the baby is very big and as nidhi has a small frame..specially a narrow pelvic region..so she is under lot of strain..thats why the high b.p."dr ashutosh nodded n asked"but what is the reason..sudhir why ..is there an abnormalcy"?sudhir shook his head,"no..no,the doppler is clear on that..no abnormalcy..the problem is bcoz of the difference between you two"ashu looked amazed.."what has age difference got to do with our babys size"?sudhir smiled.,"ashutosh,not age difference,the difference in your heights...nidhiis i think 5'2" n you are6'1"your child has taken after you..ashutosh..thats the crux of the matter.."dr ashutosh looked up.."so what are the ramifications..i mean can she carry..if there is a danger to her..i d opt for a mechanical termination of pregnancy..i just cant put her in danger.."said ashu,shaking his head.dr sudhir got up n patted him,"ashutosh,m.t.p.need not be considered as of now..though its your call but i feel it will shatter nidhi.."dr ashutosh thrust his hands in his pockets ,impatiently and said"yes ,it will shatter her..but what if i lose her..?sudhir ,i feel like a criminal..i made her pregnant ..n put her into all this agony.while her batch mates r still hiking n swimming..its me me me!!"a frustrated ashutosh bnged the table..helplessness brimming in his eyes.sudhir spoke,"ashutosh,i feel she can pull through..with your care n support..though we will have more frequent check ups n yes her pain quotient will be high..specially 20 week onwards ,when the movements start.."
The door opened and nidhi entered,..she still seemed pale but very determined.."dr sudhir..i have heard..i know that the baby is big..i dont need an ultrasound to tell me that sir,i can feel it.."ashutosh looked up n began.."nidhi ,we were just discussing ,if its prudent to go ahead with this.."nidhi stopped him midway,she was upset..very very upset.."dr ashutosh..was it prudent for me to love my dean,was it prudent to marry him..who was 18 years my senior..then how can you say this...sir,i will not abort this baby..i am ready to take the pain..i will do as you people say..i d quit work,take bed rest ,.whatever but i want to keep the baby..plz plz dr ashutosh..its the creation of our love..if he dies..i too die..emotionally atleast.."nidhi looked up .emotions varying from anger to oleading..
Ashutosh looked at her..in her eyes..that had profound love for him..oblivious to sudhir's presence,he put his hands on her cheeks n kissed her on the forehead..a kiss of love,of protection,of commitment..
Dr sudhir interrupted the moment n smiled,"nidhi,you should realise,the ramifications,you are a dr..so now that you are keeping the baby,you need to obey me n ashutosh..n be very careful..you matter a lot to hardstone.."nidhi looked up to ashutosh..n said"jaanti hoon"after a long list of do's n dont's ashu nidhi emerged..just then sudhir called ashu back,"n yes,no penetrative sex tonight,she d be tender from the probe..but tomorrow on you can be normal..but be careful..dont put all your weight,..."ashu said"i completely understand..sudhir..nidhi's comfort n safety matters the most for me.."
In the night as ashu was reading,nidhi entered with a bundle of pressed clothes..ashu got up,almost rushed to take it..anger n concern palpable.. but he controlled his temper..care took over.he tenderly made nidhi lie..but she held on to his hand,as he was moving away.."dr ashutosh..aap guilty nahi feel karen,yeh baby sirf aapka nahi,humaara sapna hai..mai iske zariye aapko aapka bachpan lautaana chahti hoon..mai ek chote ashu ko hanste dekhna chahti hoon,main aapke sab dukhi yaadon ki kaali kothri...kholna chahti hoon iski muskaan ki dhoop se..main jaanti hu raah mushkil hai..par kya aap mera saath nahi denge?"
Dr ashutosh looked at her,he had tears in his eyes,he held her n said.."haan nidhi..mai humesha saath doonga tumhara,,tumhi to ho meri subkuch.."

Nidhi proceeded on 2 months leave to start with.As dr ashutosh was leaving for the hospital the next morning,he looked into nidhi's eyes,trying to assess if she were disappointed..taking a break from a job that she loved so much..He said,"nidhi,yahaan aao plz"he said going into his bedroom to take his wallet,nidhi in her night gown followed,"jee"Ashu held her swelling waist n said"kya karogi dinbhar?bore ho jaaogi"?Nidhi shook her head n said"nahi,baba se baatein karoongi,ghar theek karoongi aur...sapne dekhoongi..."Ashu held her tighter.."sapne..kiske sapne?"nidhi smiled n answered,"humaare aanewaale kal ke..ek chote ashu ke..."Dr ashutosh bent to kiss her full on the lips n added"ya,choti nidhi ke.."nidhi just rested her head on his broad ,masculine chest..her ultimate sanctuary..
At about 7 in the evening,dr ashutosh phoned to inform that he had an urgent surgery n would be home only by 2 in the night,so nidhi must eat n retire.Nidhi n baba sat for dinner,matar ki kachouri aur aloo,ashu's favourite..baba could see the loneliness in nidhi's eyes.she had to be prodded to eat,she cleared the table n when baba said"chal beta ,walk kartein hain"she just said.."nahi baba..mann nahi kar raha.."n retired.
When ashu came,everyone was asleep.he opened with his key n entered the bedroom..looked at nidhi..lost in dreams..but he was so bone tired that he just collapsed on the bed n slept like a log.
"Uthiye ,9 baj rahe hain,hospital nahi jaana?"nidhi was waking him up..ashutosh looked up,she had taken bath but was still in another gown..ashu held her hand n said.."hey doc,kal bahut der hogayee.."before he could say more,nidhi interrupted,"haan,aur kyunki mai so gayee thi,aap bina dinner khaaye hi so gaye.."pouted nidhi.."chaliye,taiyyar hoiye,maine aapke liye aaloo ke paraanthe banaaye hain.."nidhi got up..but with effort..dr ashutosh obseved that.
At breakfast,baba was talking about the neighbours n just as nidhi said,"suniye,aaj shaam ko.."dr ashutosh's phone rung.He got up,there was an urgent meeting,so he had to leave,as nidhi made an effort to get up,he held her shoulder n said"tum baitho..bye.."n he was gone..
It was another v busy day for dr ashutosh,meeting with management,rounds,3 complicated surgeries n then as he was planning to leave in the evening,a visit by health secretary to discuss the plan layout for the new wing n equipment at k.g.h.
Nidhi had made ashu's favourite hare chane ki curry,roomali roti n tossed salad..but again had to eat without him..baba also forced her to come for a walk..though he couldnt help observing that nidhi kept looking at her cell phone from time to time..waiting for ashu..baba smiled at their love..
Nidhi tried to remain awake but by 12,she had fallen asleep...waiting..still waiting..
As ashu entered ,he looked at the food..n knew that nidhi had cooked for him..he went into the bedroom n as he entered he was mesmerised by the sleeping nidhi,on her back,the cellphone still in her hand..ashu came close to her,sat n just gazed..It was like their wedding night when ashu had to leave..depriving nidhi of what every bride dreams of..n when he came the next morning..he had found a sleeping nidhi...sainyaan
But just like that day,as he was about to touch her..nidhi sensed his presence n opened her eyes..n smiled"aagaye aap..chaliye khaana khaaiye"said nidhi as she tried to get up..but found it difficult..DrAshutosh put a hand around her n helped her..He looked at her..
sainyaan..his nidhi..never a complaint..always thinking of him..n he.always stuck with work..ashutosh gulped looking at nidhi,as she served him..n sat next to him.ashu took a bite n put it in nidhi's mouth..she just looked at him sleepily..
By the time ashu finished dinner,nidhi was v sleepy n ashu helped her into bed..n came to lie after a bath..nidhi mumbled in her sleep.,"dr ashuto..."n ashu kissed her on her forehead.
In the wee hours,dr ashutosh seemed to feel something by his side..he opened his sleepy eyes..n sat up as he saw nidhi trying unsuccessfully to come into a sitting position..n was moaning in pain.
Ashutosh immediately understood ,held her shoulders..as nidhi's eyes brimmed up with tears.."please dr ashutosh..baithne me help keejiye..plz.."nidhi seemed desperate.Ashu helped her to a reclining position n asked "aur pillow chaahiye?"nidhi bit her lip n nodded..ashu came close,put his arm around her..as she put her head on his chest..crying feebly..ashutosh put his hand flat on her belly..n seemed to feel a flutter.."movements..?"he asked.Nidhi nodded n seemed to weep n smile at the same time..As ashu understood,the foetal movements were causing the pain..sudhir had forewarned..
Ashu held nidhi tenderly,as he stroked the baby bump ,as if lulling their child to sleep..finally nidhi drifted into sleep n ashu gently put her in a sleeping position again.He got up,took his stethoscope n put it on the baby bump,he could hear the heart beat clearly n then movement like a click of fingers..He smiled..his own flesh n blood ,nurtured in his nidhi's womb..but then he looked at nidhi..looking a shade pale n v tired..this labour of love..was it too much for his nidhi..?nidhi seemed to smile in her sleep..Ashu couldnt resist what he had been dying to do..he bent n grazed is lips on hers..n ..sainyaa..he patted her to sound sleep..n kept gazing at her with love..how her form was changing..as if she was really blooming..her breasts were bigger n softer..n she had gained weight..was full..n seemed sooo happy..but the thought of her in pain,her moans..her inability to turn or sit up..how she must be needing him during the day..n he came home only when she was asleep..Ashu felt guilty..he had to be with nidhi..more
In the morning,nidhi was awakened by familiar wetness of ashu's kisses on her eyes.."utho nidhi..dekho,breakfast in bed.."nidhi rubbed her eyes n said "arre,9 baj gaye..im sorry,aapko der.."ashu stopped her midway n reminded her it was a sunday..so he d be with her,would take her for lunch n in the evening they d visit col verma..as ashu said he had some work there..nidhi wondered what..
Her thoughts were cut short when ashu asked"to,doc kya karna hai aaj!ashutosh at ur service"nidhi smiled n said"mujhe maternity shopping karni hai..i have grown so much..cant fit into.."ashu understood why she was always in gowns..why hadnt it struck him..she must be needing every garment.Nidhi tugged at him.,"kya soch rahe hain..i need clothes.."Ashu smiled naughtily.."achcha,let me check your size.."n he opened her gown,deftly undid her nightie ,to look at her breasts..larger n lovelier..he bent his head to take the nipples which were bigger n darker..his fingers moved around one nipple while he sucked the other..nidhi moaned..ashu raised his head..to see but ws relaxed to find it was a moan of pleasure..he bent his head again..nidhi in pregnant form..seemed so lovely..so complete..he wanted he more than ever..nidhi too yearned for his stubble scraping her soft skin..his kisses n his fingers..pregnancy seemed to have made her want him more than ever..she unbuttoned his shirt n kissed him all over..as ashu trailed his fingers from her eyes to her navel..followed by soft kisses..till nidhi's moans seemed to grow into loud groans..and ashu cupped her breasts..n then remembering not to put his weight on her..he turned her to her side..she didnt like it..but ashu was the boss n he knew he could bring her to ecstacy in any position..his fingers massaged..n nidhi felt the heavenly pleasure of his probing n pressure..of his fingers seeming to be a part of her..n he bit her ear lobes n sensing nidhi 's desire he claimed her sideways..very careful not to burden her with his weight..n as he moved in a rhythm,nidhi n he again traversed the frontiers of shuddering ecstacy..whichcould come only when deep love n total commitment connected two people..
As ashu withdrew ,nidhi still lay ,n ashu..concerned,turned her n asked,"nidhi,did i..did i hurt you.."?nidhi moved her head to say "no" n asked him to help her sit..as she sat,she again hid her blushing face in his bare chest..sainyaan...

Ashu takes nidhi shopping..
Nidhi went to have a bath,ashu was v particular now that she shouldnt lock the door from inside.she dressed into a purple kurta n black churidar..this was the only set that fitted her..ashu infact had to help her wear her sandles..bending down was getting difficult..n it was only the 4 month yet..ashu's brow was furrowed.
After breakfast,ashu told baba their plans n said that he should also accompany them to col verma's in the evening.baba smiled n said "zuroor zuroor,solanki saheb se bhi mil loonga,par ashu,lunch ke baad beta,nidhi ko thoda ghar le aana rest ke liye..thak jaati hai aajkal..i have observed ,infact i wanted to tell you,kabhi kabhi panting bhi hoti hai usse..tune dekha hai?"ashu nodded,"jee baba,i have..infact next week there has to be a checkup again..its a painful pregnancy for her.."ashu trailed off..but nidhi interrupted.."dr ashutosh,painful to aaj ka din aapke liye hoga ,kyunki mei bahut saari shopping karoongi.."baba smiled at their banter n got up ,while ashu looked up n said with care in his eyes,"aaj tum dekhna mai kitni shopping karta hun apni biwi ke liye.."ashutosh remembered how he had yelled at nidhi when during anji's wedfing she had shopped for 1 lac..but he was gonna make amends ,..for sure..ashu smiled n got up.."chalo,mujhe do minute kaam hai.."ashu helped nidhi inthe car,making her sit v softly n then came to drive.he first stopped at the officeof make my trip n said"bus abhi aayaa"nidhi wondered.he came soon eith a packet..n when nidhi asked,he said they were tickets for drs who had to go on conference..nidhi became apprehensive,"aap bhi jaayenge??"ashu could sense the panic in her voice..he held her hand n said"tumhe is haalat me chod ke kya mai kahi jaa sakta hu?" sainyaa..
They came to the sahara mall n went into the mothers store.nidhi wanted loose kurtas n stretch churidaars,ashu helped her pick different colours n then she had to try them..she went into the trial room while ashu waited ..nidhi couldnt manage to try beyond the second kurta,she felt so drained..she called out"dr ashutosh ,can you help me plz"?ashu immediately looked up ,raising his eyebrow"bolo nidhi,kya hua?"nidhi opened the door..n ashu entered..she was looking a harrassed kid with clothes strewn around n a kurta on her but all awry!!ashu smiled ..his child woman.
He made her sit on the stool n helped her try all kurtas n even a churidaar..their hands feeling together if it was tight at the baby bump..nidhi felt it was..so ashu came out n returned with some loose salwars..which were perfect,finally they emerged,nidhi tired n panting..ashu made her sit n made her sip juice which he was carrying.."bas ho gayaa..aur dresses?"he teased nidhi..who just smiled,they then went to the sari section but nidhi didnt want any..however she bought the stretch lon blouses..as her bust seemed to grow each day..n finally the soft pre maternity bras panties..new gowns..ashu seemed to be pampering her like hell.finally nidhi said.."kitna khareedenge..sambhaal ke rakhoongi,agli baar bhi yehi sab kaam aajaayega.."she said blushing..already thinking about her next pregnancy..Dr ashutosh looked at her n thought how rough this period was going to be ..could he ever take the risk again..
Ashutosh was shaken out of his thoughts by nidhi prodding him,"chaliye,aapke liye shopping.."n before ashu could say no,nidhi was getting shirts n suits..n ties..also tees n track lengths..ashu told nidhi "aataa hoon"n went to the cosmetic section,to pick skin lotions,coconut butter cream n olive oil.nidhi s skin d need all this v soon,he knew it..when he returned,he found nidhi looking wistfully at the tiny cute dresses of newborns..ashu came n stood next to her..trying to read her thoughts,cast aside his worry n share the joy.."yeh bhi lein"?nidhi asked..pointing at the dresses..ashu said no..not as yet,he added"pehle apni biwi ko pamper karloon..baby ke aane mei to abhi waqt hai.."
In the footwear section,dr ashutosh himself went down to help nidhi try the shoes..feel the fit..n having bought 4 pairs of comfortable hushpuppies for mom to be,he had to pull nidhi from the stilletoes section.."nahi,nahi,no heels..n that is final.."said he even as nidhi pouted..only to smile n lean on him..sainyaan..dr ashutosh was v careful on the escelators asnidhi was slow now..having paid the bill..which made nidhi scared!!!!!they came to the car..
"Ab bataaiye sarkaar lunch kahaan"?ashu asked nidhi..nidhi looked at him playfully "to chinese hi khaana tha..par aapke baby ko papa ki tarah indian hi chahiye.."ashu smiled.put his hand on her belly n said.."thank u baby!!"
They had lunch at dilli durbaar,ashu ordered dal,aaloo dum n veg jaipuri n gave special instructions for low salt.."when the food came,nidhi said "aap namak daal lijiye..aap mere saath kyun suffer karen"?Ashutosh,looked up at her..a young woman ..half his age who had entered his lonely life n changed it forever..he held her hand,looked into her eyes n said,"nidhi tum mere liye,mera sapna poora karne ke liye itna dard seh rahi ho...to kya mai tumhari taqleef share karne ki bhi koshish nahi kar sakta.."nidhi's eyes seemed moist..dr ashutosh had mafe her the most fulfilled woman on this planet...she looked back at him n spoke,"sapna hum dono ka hai..kaash maine aapko iske liye intezaar nahi karwaaya hota.."ashu smiled n patted her hand,"chalo chalo,khana khao.."
After lunch,they returned to mm ,n as baba had predicted nidhi was v tired..dr ashutosh helped her to change into a loose gown n tucked her in the bed..while he went into his study as he had some research to do,At 4 ,he too came to lie..n as usual nidhi sensed him n tried to move..but these days she coulnt shift..so he smiled n came to herhe rested his right hand on her belly,nestling the tiny proof of this unconventional love..n both slept..
Finally at 5.45 ashu got up n softly awoke nidhi..
Nidhi wore a new pink kurta n grey salwar n ashu his blue suit..then ashu made nidhi sit on the bed n mafe her wear the shoes..nidhi protested."mai kar sakti hoon"ashu smiled n said.."mujhe mat sikhao ,main jaanta hoon tum kya kya kar sakti ho.."n nidhi blushed.
As ashni n baba entered col verma's place,they were welcomed warmly,dadibua as usual was in overdrive,trying to get 100 things to eat..when solankis also arrived.finally col verma spoke up,"dr ashutosh,kuch khaas baat hai kya aaj..any thing that i m not aware of.."?
Everyone including nidhi looked at dr ashutosh..he got up..n said with a serious face.."dekhiye col verma,its a serious issue n so i called solanki saheb n shyama aunty also..maine yeh decide kiya hai..aur aapko mera decision maana hoga.."he looked at his father in law..everyones heart missed a beat..baba interrupted "kya beta..bol na"..ashu continued.."yehi ,ki mai aur nidhi ab yahaan nahi aayenge..."dadibua shrieked"par kyun daaktar."ashutosh took out the travel agents pack n said"kyunki agle dus din aao sab europe jaa rahein hain..to hum kiske paas aayenge?"
Solanki saheb n col verma looked at ashu in amazement,.."lekin aapne to kaha tha..."ashu said,"bhool jaaiye jo maine kahaa tha..yeh hain aapke tickets,visa interview kal hai..aur hotel bookings,cab,vegetarian restaurant,guide all done..aapko bas travel karn hai..aap chaaron aur baba bhi.."everyone was v happy ..n ashu contd."since sab old log jaa rahein hain,to ek fit aadmi bhi hona chaahiye,isliye maine chote sarkaar ko bhi bhejne ka faisla kiya hai.."cs jumped with joy.."hum bhi..arre wah dr sahib..par humaara passport.."!!ashu replied"maine banwa diya..ab driving licence se zaroori to yehi hai na!!"
Shyama aunty came up to ashutosh n said"dr ashutosh,hum sab aapki feelings ki respect karte hain..pur..itne kharcha aapne kar diya..."baba came in n said proudly,"arre kar diya to kar diya,..daamaad hai aapka..daamaad aur bete me kya farq!"ashu smiled at db n said"haan bhale hi mai beta kehlaane ki umr ka nahi hoon!!"db smiled n said"naaraaz hai abhi taq daaktar.."?ashu hugged her..n said chaliye ab coffee pilaayey..
During coffee col verma asked that will it be prudent for all to go when nidhi is pregnant..ashu turned serious,he said,"jee,dus dino ki hi baat hai..phir by the time you ppl return ,nidhi willbe in the fifth month..tab mushkil hogi...this is the best time..n maine hospital nurse hire kar li hai nidhi ke liye..when i m in hospital..so tensionfree ho ke jaaiye"
Cs buzzed like a bee,making shopping plans..finally as they got up to leave,col verma said.."aapko kis kis cheez ke liye thanks karoon ,dr ashutosh..",dr ashutoshsmiled,bent down to touch his feet n said.."col verma.,thanks to mujhe kehna chahiye..aapko..for giving me nidhi.."
At night as ashu emerged from the washroom after his shower..he saw nidhi standing by the window..he came n caressed her back.."kya soch rahi ho..?"nidhi turned to him..her eyes were full of tears..gracious drops of love..she said.."dr ashutosh...thanx,mere parivaar ko apna parivaar samajhne ke liye.."ashu snuggled her closer n raised her chin..kissed the tears dry n added"nidhi..thank you..mujhe yeh parivaar dene ke liye.."..sainyaan...

Ashutosh n nidhi went to see off the group.everyone told nidhi to take care but when baba came to her..she leaned on him ,he held her n said,taking her aside"nidhi,beta,ashu ka khayaal rakhna,usse tere bharose hi chod kar jaa raha hoon..uska swabhaav to tu jaanti hai..."nidhi smiled"baba aap chinta nahi kariye..unke liye main hoon na.."n baba patted her..the two shared such a special bond,though he was her nana,but she always valued him as ashutosh's baba..ashu looked silently at the two pillars of his life..when they said bye n moved ,nidhi's eyes were filled with tears."hey doc!kya hua?"asked ashu..Just then chote sarkaar came running back..ashu asked him"kuch pronblem ho gayi kya?"cs giggled n said"nahi daaktar saahib,aapko thanku kehne aaye the..thanku hai jee"n ran off..ashu nidhi smiled n drove back.
Laxmi nurse was there to take care of nidhi..ashu patted her ,told hiraman to phone if there was any problem n drove off to k.g.h.
At 7 ,ashu phoned n said"nidhi,kya tum..mere ek dost ki help karogi..plz..kuch din ghar rakhogi.."?nidhi immediately knew it must be dr mallika..she felt uncomfortable..but said yes..how could she refuse ashu..she got the guest room cleared..but kept thinking..what storm was dr mallika going to bring this time..?
As she heard the horn of ashu's car,she wiped her tears n got up.Ashu came in n said "nidhi..kuch din ki baat hai.."nidhi got up to welcome dr mallika..n in walked Armaan..!!!!
"Arre armaanji..aap""haan nidhi,armaan ko waapas apna business lucknow shift karna pada hai..to kuch din..humare yahaan.."nidhi spoke"dr ashutosh,yeh ghar jitna aapka hai,utna mera bhi hai..main nahi chahti..."Ashu said"koi baat nahi nidhi,main armaan ko kahi aur thehra doonga,tum tense nahi.."nidhi stopped him..as ashu's face fell.."meri poori baat to sun le..main nahi chahti ki armaan ji yahaan kuch din rahein..main chahti hu ki woh humesha yahin rahen..humaare saath!"n a smile reached ashu's eyes..as he looked at armaan..n then proudly at nidhi..
Armaan said "thanks nidhi,per mai kuch dino me chala jaaoonga.."nidhi stopped him midway n said"kyun armaanjee..phir humaare baby ko maggi khana kaun sikhaayega..!"she said ..n armaan laughed his usual laugh n hugged her..then added"haan nidhi,usse doodh ki jagah coke pilaayenge,aur annapraashan maggi se.."Ashu laughed at their banter..
As nidhi helped in dinner,ashu n armaan sat outside n ashu shared with armaan his apprehensions about nidhi's pregnancy n her decision to carry the baby inspite of the pain n..he said..'"armaan ,mujhe darr lagta hai..agar nidhi ko kuch ho gaya..."armaan kept a hand on him..he had always been there in ashu's problems..
After dinner nidhi wanted to chat but armaan understood the concern in ashu's eyes n said"nidhi,subah guppe maarenge ,jub yeh khadoos nahi hoga..aur phir maggi bhi to laana hai..aur pepsi..aur biscuits.."
Ashu sat on the bed waiting for nidhi to come out of her bath..when she did nt emerge 5 mins after the shower stopped,ashu looked in..to find her struggling to wipe herself..
He smiled n said"kyun nahi aawaaz di.."?n took the towel,patted her dry n helped her into a nightie n when she came into the bedroom,he made her settle,n slipped next to her.."nidhi..thanku..thanku soo so much armaan ke liye.."said ashu..nidhi replied"dr ashutosh..thanku kis liye?armaanji ka is ghar pe aur aap pe ,mujh se zyaada huq hai..aur phir baby ke chacha humaare saath nahi rahenge to kahaan rahenge?"n put ashu's hand on her belly..as ashu caressed n bent to kiss her baby bump..nidhi moaned in anticipated pleasure..ashu raised his eyebrow,smiled n patted her cheek"aaj nahi,aaj tum thaki ho..chalo sulata hoon.."n he patted her till she slipped into deep sleep..
Days passed by happily,ashu observed nidhi happy with armaan n knew both of them saw in each other siblings they never had..
Nidhi started helping armaan with his new designs,though she never went out..one night as ashu snuggled nidhi..n asked her.."nidhi..you have given me so..much..mai tumhe kya de sakta hoon?"nidhi looked at him then the twinkle of mischief came in her eyes n she said."aisa kariyega..do saal ke baad,ek aur baby..."n she hid her face in his chest..as ashu seemed to smile..but there was a deep worry in his eyes..
Next day,as nidhi was sitting with armaan,eating maggi,armaan broached the topic of her pregnancy..n said"jaanti ho nidhi,ashu bahut worried hai tumko leke..agar tumhe kuch ho gaya to woh jhel nahi paayega..mai tha uske saath kerala mei,jab tum dono alag hue the..kabhi nahi bhool sakta uske aansoo..jo bahe nahi..andar hi reh gaye.."nidhi said"armaanji,aapne to unki udaasi,unka akelaapan mujhse zyaada dekha hai..is bachche ki muskaan se,mai unki saari dukhi yaadein mita dena chahti hoon..main unki aankhon me chamak dekhna chahti hoon..dukh aur akelepan ki syaah silwaton ko iski maasoom khilkhilahat se dho dena chahti hoon..."armaan looked at nidhi..n blessed the fact that they had found each other...
That night,armaan got a phone call n his expression of "yipee"showed it was a good news..yes his designs had been accepted by many export houses..n so nidhi said"bhai,ab to ek treat banti hai.."ashu joined in..armaan gladly agreed.."yes kal party time...yuhooo"
As ashu n armaan stood in the lawn after nidhi had settled for sleep..armaan said"ashu,tu kitna lucky hai..nidhi jaisi ladki ko paa ke..uske liye teri khushi se bada kuch nahi hai...uski zindagi bhi nahi.."ashu sighed n said.."armaan..nidhi meri zindagi bhi hai..aur meri khushi bhi.."..both ashu n armaan looked at each other silently as inside,nidhi slept..lost in the dreams of the joy which she felt was just round the corner...

Next morning as nidhi was helping kaka make breakfast,ashu came out n shouted"nidhi,nidhi meri red tie kahan hai"?nidhi tried to hurry to the bedroom..but could only wobble.she opened the tie case n took out the tie.."ab nikaal di hai to pehna bhi do"said ashu,n nidhi smiled as she did the knot for him n he bent down to kiss her..
At breakfast,armaan was v enthusiastic about his new order n nidhi reminded him of the treat..hiraman kaka also said"raat ka khana to nahi banega ,armaan beta?"as everyone smiled,nidhi's phone rang..ashu passed it to her..glancing at the number..nidhi said "hello!"
Nidhi seemed to go white n then pale..she wanted to speak but words failed her..ashu n armaan both observed,n ashu took the phone from her.."hullo,hullo"he shouted ,but the call had been disconnected.he looked at nidhi.."who was it..kya kaha"?nidhi seemed to be in a stupor n was shaken out of it as armaan sitting next to her,held her hand.."a man ,a man ,he said..he said.."n rest was all lost in nidhi's sobs..Ashu came close,looked at her intently n said,"kya kaha nidhi..bolo"!"he said..both i n our baby will be killed..for sure.."the look of fear writ large over her face..
Ashu calmed her n said"come on nidhi,annonymous callers are the biggest cowards..dont be scared..meri brave nidhi.."Armaan added,"for all that you know it might be a joke..let me see the no."he dialled back.,yhe no.was switched off
After much convincing by ashutosh n armaan,nidhi seemed fine..n as luxmi bai came,both left for their respective works.
In the afternoon ashu called to find out how was nidhi n kaka told she was sleeping after lunch.satisfied,ashu immersed himself in his work.
When he reached home at7,armaan was almost ready n as he entered his bedroom,he saw nidhi choose a sari for the evening.she had already pressed his blue suit n tie .As ashu emerged from the toilet,he saw nidhi wear her sari..in a state of partial undress..he smiled as he could not help thinking of the first time when he had seen her this way..the struggle between his shyness n desire..n though she was 18 years younger..she had understood..n taken the initiative..he could never forget the moment when he had kissed her neck n she ,slipping into his arms ,had guided his hands to the buttons of her red kurta..he still recalled the mutual tremors of shyness,n his touch on her virgin body...Nidhi looked up n seeing ashutosh look at her ,said.."kya soch rahe hain?"ashu smiled ..n said.."tumhe aise dekh kar ..machaan waali raat yaad aa gayee.."n nidhi took his hands n put them on her shoulders..from where ashu slipped them to her breasts..sqeezing them,just a bit..as nidhi whispered"ab sharmaate nahin hain aap"!..ashu caressed her earlobe n claimed her lips..finally a knock at the door made them realise they were getting late for dinner..both came out dressed n armaan drove them to Clarks.
He had already booked a table for three and as they ordered ,it seemed to be a perfect evening in the making.Ashu joined the buffet while armaan n nidhi ordered sizzlers..armaan talked of his business plans n ashu gave his suggestions.,infact nidhi surprised both saying she might join armaan for a while after the baby was born,working from home..
Ashu asked"but wont u come back to kgh?"nidhi counterd"then who will look after the baby"?"i m sure dadibua..or a ..""no,dr ashutosh,its our baby,n i want to witness all the magical moments..i will join kgh..but a little later.."ashu seemed mesmerised at her maternal instincts..but armaan interjected.."arre nidhi,aisa nahi ho ki koi aur ashu pe dore daal le..u see he is hot n handsome..!"everyone laughed.
As armaan ordered desserts,nidhi wanted to use the washroom.."mai abhi aayee".ashu said"i will come..""to the ladies washroom!!!"ashu shook his head n said,a"arre i will wait out side"
Nidhi went in,and crossed a lady who walked passed her quickly.As she was washing her hands,lights went off..nidhi waited for the generator..it was taking time
She suddenly felt a grip on her belly n a hand on her mouth.."dare not shout..otherwise you will die right now,..you do not have a chance with dr ashutosh..n this baby will never see the light of the day..."n she was pushed with full force in complete darkness.
Nidhi's hands groped n luckily caught hold of the hand drier ..that checked her fall.she could hear some one running..n nidhi yelled with all her lung power "dr ashutosh.."
As ashu n the female attendants entered the washroom,nidhi lay on th floor,luckily on her back..Ashu lifted her n brought her out..still in a state of complete shock,she recounted the horror..the manager was shocked as the lights outside had not been off..so had someone been waiting for nidhi...or was her mind playing games with her..?
Ashu recalled the call in the morning n asked if it was the same man's voice..nidhi quivered n said.."this was a woman.."ashutosh was shocked.
The drive home was tense,ashu sat with nidhi at the back seat..holfing her tight..though she was not crying,she still seemed to be trembling..ashu knew..she was scared for their baby..he instinctively put his protective hand on her belly wehile she clutched to his shirt.
Nidhi changed,..but ashu could see her tremble..he literally cocooned her in a bear hug ..as she rested her form on him..n he caressed her..trying to bring comfort n security..she seemed to be in discomfort as well..ashu felt the baby move ..was there an injury..?he d take her to dr sudhir tomorrow...
As nidhi finally slept..,ashu put pillows around her n came out ..a tense armaan was pacing the hall
"Nidhi kaisi hai ab ashu"asked a worried armaan..Ashu nodded n said.."its been a tough knock for her..dar gayee hai..pakad ke soyee hai mujhe.."armaan asked"is the baby ok"?ashu looked into the darkness n said"restless movements the..naturally bcoz mother disturbed hai..ahi to settled lagta hai..kal check up ke liye le jaaoonga.."
Armaan stood by ashu n asked "any guesses..kaun ho sakta hai..mallika...?"ashu kept quiet.."armaan ,im not sure..but i dont think it could be her..but i d check thru. My friends if she has come back to india.."armaan patted him..ashu went on..in a rare mood to unburden himself"you know armaan,i cant understand,why will anyone harm nidhi..she is such a .,such a ..dear..jaanta hai armaan..i feel guilty..meri wajah ee nidhi itna sab seh rahi hai..pehle mallika ne usse chot pahunchaai..mai bhi andhaa ho gayaa tha dosti me..jantaa hai,nidhi abhi bhi raat me uth ke roti hai..usse lagta hai mallika uske baby ko maar degi..n you know armaan..even this pregnancy..i know she is bearing all this pain for me..because i..wanted my flesh n blood..because i couldnt lay my demons to rest..and as if all this was not enough..now this unknown fesr..yeh darr.."
"DR ASHUTO..."it was nidhi,ashu n armaan rushed in..nidhi had woken up,not finding ashu around had probably got scared..she clutched ashu..as armaan quietly went out n closed the door..
"Kahaan chale gaye the aap.."whimpered nidhi.."hey doc,yaheen baahar tha..aur tum to meri bahadur firebrand nidhi ho..daro nahi..tum brave hogi tabh to yeh bhi brave hogi"said ashu..indicating to the baby..
Nidhi nestled closer as ashu slipped into the bed..thinking inthe darkness..

The whole night ashu kept holding nidhi,close..really close to him..but she whimpered in her sleep..as ashu's experienced hands could feel the restless movement of the baby..who was it who was threatening his wife n child..?he kept wrecking his mind but could not find any answers..
In the morning,he phoned sudhir n narrated the entire sequence of events..dr sudhir was shocked n told ashu to bring nidhi to the hospital immediately.
As nidhi woke,ashu told they had to go for a check up...she got ready n the two left.
Dr sudhir talked to nidhi,nanda was there too,both looked worried but tried to make nidhi feel relaxed..the anger against this unknown enemy filled dr ashutosh's eyes with anger..
Both nanda n ashutosh were present as dr sudhir conducted a detailed examination of nidhi,at the end of which,she looked even more pale n tired..
Sudhir called for the head nurse to take nidhi n ready her for the ultrasound..
Ashu,nanda n sudhir came out,as the nurses wheeled nidhi away..
In his chamber,dr sudhir spoke,"ashutosh,nidhi has been v. Lucky indeed..she has not sufferred any major injury n the baby is normal..though i d still like to conduct ...""
"DR DR..THE PATIENTVIS SHRIEKING..THE NURSE HAS LOCKED THE ROOM.."ONE OF THE NURSES OF SUDHIR RUSHED INTO THE CHAMBER..
"Who..who is it?who is locked"shouted sudhir..His nurse said what ashutosh feared.."sir ,the new nurse who reporte today has locked dr nidhi..plz rush "
All four rushed,wardboys were already outside the ultrasound room..nidhi's cries could be heard.there was lot of commotion within..ashu realized nidhi was in mortal danger..n hardly in any position to defend herself..ashutosh banged the door over n over again..he also smsed armaan..n after agonisingly long moments as the door broke open..all were frozen in fear to see an injured battered nidhi lying on the floor n the assailant raised a scalpel to stab the baby..
Nidhi realised the danger n the mother in her made a final valiant effort to duck n save her baby..as she ducked n her hand,tried to fight the attacker,the scalpel missed her abdomen but jabbed her just below the left breast..n nidhi fell..bleeding n unconscious..

Dr ashutosh dr sudhir n others rushed in..ashu immediately felt for nidhis pulse..weak..but there..dr sudhir n his wardboys trapped the path of the assailant as she was trying to escape..
Ashu looked up to see the identity of the attacker..n he was shell shocked.."DIVYA...YOU...OH GOD..WHY?""???
just then armaan appeared with the police who took charge of a blistering fighting divya..dr ashutosh gave her a look of disgust as he helped nidhi on to the stretcher..n she was rushed into the o.t.
Dr sudhir's team of surgeons were already at work.nidhi's pulse rate was falling,heart beat was indicated on the monitor..her forehead was bleefing n as the dr cut her gown,dr ashutosh was aghast to see the blood gushing out of the stab below the breast..ashutosh clenched his fists..
Dr sudhir came n just as he was to examine nidhi gynaecologically,he came n firmly took ashu out of the o.t."ashutosh..wait here..let us try.."
Ashu slumped almost numb..not knowing why,how his paradise was being shattered..Armaan came n stood by him..the look in ashu's eyes told that if ,god forbid anything happened to his nidhi..he will not be able to take it..
Ashu kept pacing up n down the corridoor..oblivious to all n everything around him..his thoughts were only with nidhi..lying on the operaton table ,fighting for her life..n for their baby..what if the baby didnt make it..how would nidhi take the blow..what if her pregnancy threatened hrr condition further..?ashu sat with his head in his hands..
The police inspector appeared.
D
"Dr ashutosh,could you just give us two minutes.."ashu nodded n got up.
As the inspector took him to divya..aradhanaji's daughter..his heart wrenched with hatred..
Divya seemed unrepentant..n said"dr ashutosh..i did it..i hired men to phone her,i attacked her..bcoz of you..BECOZ I LOVE YOU..I CANNOT BEAR TO SEE HER PREGNANT WITH YOUR CHILD...ONLY I.."ashu could not bear any longer..he struck divya hard across her face.."HOW COULD YOU DO THIIS..WE GAVE YOU A NEW LIFE..NIDHI NURSED YOU..N THIS IS HOW YOU PAY BACK.."?DIVYA SHOUTED INSANELY,"NO ONE BUT ME CAN TOUCH YOU..YOU WILL BE MINE..."
The inspector n police women held divya n took her away..saying they will return for nidhi's statement if she survived...
"If she survived..."thought ashu..what if she didnt..twice nidhi's life had been threatened by insane love of women who desired him..how gnarled could love be..
Ashu was finding it tough even to breathe..armaan brought coffee.."ashu plz..himmat mat haar,.."Ashutosh looked away..he couldnt bear to see his home,his world being shattered..he would simply not have any reason to live without nidhi..
After about 4 hours,the o.t door opened,dr sudhir n his general surgeon emerged.sudhir patted ashu n said"ashu.all is not lost..we have saved her..n the baby is also fine..infact nidhi fought valiantly to save the baby..as there are stabs around her body but she manahed to save the baby bump..head injury is superficial,though m.r.i has been done n you can have alook.
Its the stab below the breast,thats deep n has caused lot of blood loss..she is still unconscious..we have to wait n watch .n pray..the next 12 hours are crucial...if not critical..
Ashutosh did not know how to respond..he was simply dazed..his nidhi hanging between life n death..what if the thread broke...ashu covered his eyes with his hands...
Dr ranganath,anji had also come but armaan warned them not to divulge anything to the group abroad..anji came n said,"jeejaaji..."ashu looked up n then away..he could not face anji..whose best friend..child hood playmate was dying..bcoz of a womans insane love for him..ashu walked away..
"Dr ashutosh.."ashu stopped dead..it was araadhanaji..baba's friend..she came up as ashu looked away in contempt.."ashutosh..i m sorry for what divya has done..."ashu 's patience blew off.."you r sorry..r you..do u know your maniac ,spoilt daughter has nearly killed my nidhi..n why bcoz she says she loves me...aradhnaji..is this what you taught her..to do anything.?to obtain a man...huh!!!"n ashu walked away..seething with rage.
The wait thru the night was intensely painful..they coould see nidhi thru the window..the tubes,n all..the monitor..but she lay still..no movement..
Ashutosh was thinking of the months of long separation..of her suffering due to mallika..his own temper..he hated himself..armaan n anji came..anji said,"jeejaaji..nidhi aapse bahot bahot pyaar karti hai.."armaan held him"hey ashu..stop blaming yourself.."ashu couldnt hold back his tears...he sat recalling the moments when his nidhi would go overboard in excitement ..planning about the baby..how she would put his hand on her belly...ashu felt a lump in his throat..

Dr ashutosh ,armaan, anji waited outside nidhi's i.c.u. while dr ranganath had to go to k.g.h.dr dubey,ashu's professor n administrator of k.g.h came ..he put a hand on ashu's shoulder..but ashu just kept quiet..he had nothing to say..except that he dbe on leave till nidhi recovered..dr dubey nodded n went away..he could probably not comprehend the agony of ashu...only armaan n anji could..armaan becoz he had been with him thru his bleakest n most lonesome days n knew what nidhi meant to him..she had given him all that ashutosh had never even dreamt of..n anji becoz she was nidhi's confidant n knew the silent dependence of dr ashutosh..now jeejaaji to her on her best friend..nidhi.
Ashu loosened his tie n looked at his watch..5 hrs had goneby...As armaan brought cups of coffee,ashu could suddenly see a flurry of activity in nidhi's room..dr sudhir rushed in..Ashu's heart throbbed..trying to muster up a prayer...for all that he had lay helpless in the i.c.u...moments stretched into hours n it was at 6 in the morning,that dr sudhir emerged..a smile on his face..."ashutosh...nidhi has made it..she n the baby r out of danger.."the rest was lost to dr ashutosh ,who just shook dr sudhir's hand n said"thanks sudhir..you have given me my life back..."dr sudhir smiled n patted ashu..he said ashu could not meet nidhi right now as the surgeon was giving plastic surgery below her breast..ashu nodded n as sudhir told him to come to his cabin...he followed but not before he had hugged armaan..n anji who were crying with relief..
Dr sudhir took a cigarette..it had been a long night for him too..he offered one to dr ashutosh,who said"no,thanks..i gave up on smoking n alcohol eversince nidhi came into my life.."sudhir explained "ashutosh,nidhi has survived..n the way shehas fought the monster...it shows she is emotionally v strong..but her wounds will take time to heal..n you have to ensure that she is well looked after n protected..she certainly cant take any more of this..n now v soon she will be in the 5 month..which as you know can be treacherous..specially with the size of the baby..n the discomfort the movements r going to cause.."ashutosh nodded..he understood the difficulties..
Dr sudhir finally said,"you know ,i am glad you did not force nidhi for the abortion...the baby n the will to protect it has probably saved her..even when she was semi conscious..she was trying to touch her baby bump..trying to feel if the babywas safe n your name..it was constantly on her lips.."Ashu had to look away to hide his tears from sudhir.."yes,i know..she is bearing all the pain to give me a blood connect...her only dream is to fulfil my dream of having a family...can i ,can i see her now"?
Dr ashutosh entered nidhi's i.c.u after an hour..she was on drip n there was a bump on her temple..scratches on her arms...rest of her gashes were covered..
As ashu came close to her n stood..she opened her eyes..slowly..ashu saw those eyes that were large n beautiful..full of life..reflection of her vivacious self...eyes in which he had seen misery n desolation in kerala..which had danced with ecstacy when he had touched her waist for the first time during the sangeet dance..eyes that had been full of joy when he had brought her home as his bride...those eyes...looked at him ..nidhi tried to utter"dr ashutosh.."but words couldnt come out..ashu looked at her..with love..n longing..with care n protection...n then bent down to kiss her on the bruise on her forehead..n then gently placed his hand on her baby bump..n witha great effort spoke,"nidhi,humara baby theek hai..dekho..i can feel it.."nidhi closed her eyes n tiny tears flowed from them...tears of relief...ashu wiped them n stood silently..he then checked her reports by the bedside n came out..giving her a pat on the forehead..for he knew even in the deepest pain or sleep,she would always feel his touch..the touch of their silent commitment...
Armaan n anji forced him to go home,freshen up n then return..Hiraman kaka knew everything..he said"beta..bhagwaan me vishwaas rakho..."
Ashu bathed n as he opened his almirah ,he saw nidhi's portion too...her kurtis,her gowns..her one favourite churidaar..ashu was flooded with a deluge of emotions..that he had been fighting to control..he touched her clothes..n his hands found and pulled at an unfinished sweater of the baby..pink..n lovely..ashu couldnt bear it any longer..he broke down completely..
When ashu returned to dr sudhir's nursing home,he was apparently composed though armaan could sense the restlessness..
It was inthe afternoon that sudhir came for a check up n took ashu with him.
As always,ashu held nidhi's hand as dr examined her..she was fully conscious now..n looked at ashu...as if telling him to relax...
The next day the police came for nidhi's statement..ashu stood close to her as she recounted her horror..but to ashu's admiration she remained calm..
After two days,dr sudhir smiled at her n said.."nidhi..ghar jaaogi?"nidhi's eyes danced with joy..
As she entered the home with ashu's support..armaan n kaka had tears in their eyes..ashu made her lie n she slept of fatigue..at finner armaan reminded that everyone d be back in 2 days..nidhi winced at the panic that d ensue..
In the night as ashu helped her change,he also put ointment on her wounds..she winced when he checked her wound below her breast..n as a tear rolled ,ashu gulped in his silent agony..he gave her the medicines..n came next to her..brushed her hair back..as she slowly drifted into sleep.
Nidhi stayed at home as the rest went to pick the family from the airport.."are nidhi nahi aayee.."observed col verma,ashu kept quiet..baba observed it..but was digresssed in meeting armaan..n was thrilled to know he was back at mm.cs looked cool with goggles n even tried the foreign accent..solankis were busy recounting the sight seeing..
As ashu got them to cv house,baba said "arre beta ,pehle nidhi se to milwa deta sabko.."ashu turned towards the window ,not willing to show his agony n tears as he recounted the misery of the past week..
Dadibua was restless to meet nidhi but was wisely convinced that they should come in the evening..col verma n db suggested that nidhi should be brought here so that she could be better looked after in the day,ashu seemed to agree..
As baba came into nidhi's bedroom,nidhi tried to get up..baba came n hugged her,..tears flowing dowm..."kaisi hai bachchi"?nidhi replied"ab aap aa gaye hain to ab theek ho jaaoongi jaldi..."
In the evening ,cv,cs db ,solankis all xame to take nidhi..as she sat in the hall talking ,armaan gave her juice..n ashu camein to pack her stuff..
Nidhi suddenly realized ashu's absence..'"dr ashutosh kahaan gaye..dekhti hoon"n she got up with armaan's help.
As she was coming towards their bedroom,ashu emerged with her suit case..nidhi was shocked.."ye kya hai..dr ash..."
Ashu looked at her,db spoke"meri bachchi,itna sab ho gayaa..ab tujhe humaare saath rehna hoga delivery tak..daaktar aata jaata rahega..bachchi yahaan samdhiji pareshaan ho jaayenge..phir daaktar kab tak chutti leke baitha rahega.."?nidhi gulped n looked at ashu.."kya aap bhi yahi chaahte hain..mai bojh ban gayee hoon aap pe?"
Ashu shook his head n said.."kaisi baat kar rahi ho nidhi,mai to bas tumhara aaram ,tumhara sukh chaahta hoon..bahut taqleef jheli hai tumne..phir shaayad dadibua tumhari is haalat me behtar looking aft kar sakein.."
Nidhi breathed in deeply n said.."aap sab ko meri hifaazat,meri looking after ki chinta hai..kisi ne socha mai kya chahti hoon..ha,ye sach hai,mujhe chot lagi..par bachaya to dr ashutosh ne hi na..aur ye baby hum dono ka hai..mai iska ye safar iske papa ke bina kyun kaatoo?dr ashutosh..aapko mere khaane peene ki chinta hui..yeh nahi socha aapne ki aapki nidhi aapse door zinda kaise reh paayegi..delivery tak to bahut door ki baat hai..kya mai aur baby ek din bhi aapke bina saans le paayenge..."nidhi was crying..n was angry too..even though physically frail,she had her steely resolve intact..
"Dadibua, mai kahi nahi jaa rahi..yehi mera ghar hai..aapko jab meri chinta ho ,mujh se mil jaaya kariye.."saying so,nidhi wobbled into the bedroom..her family patted ashu n went away..baba gave"i told you so looks to" ashu
As ashu entered the bedroom..nidhi was sitting on the bed..eyes filled with tears..ashu came close n said"sorry..nidhi"n nidhi looked up..tears rolling down..she said.."dr ashutosh..aap mujhse 18 saal bade hain..phir kyun nahi samajh paaye..mera sukh..mera sansaar..meri duniya yaheen hai..aapki baahon mei.."n ashu hugged her tight...sainyaan ..naino ki bhaasha samjhe na..naino ki bhaasha..