The Dr Kaira Chapter. - Page 6

Originally posted by: A_Star39

Part 7: Sushi and Panic ke pakode

The Tokyo skyline outside the panoramic windows of Ruh iBirla Poddar’s penthouse was just beginning to glow with the soft, etherea llight of a spring dawn. Her apartment, a masterpiece of minimalist luxury,hummed with a quiet, efficient energy. Polished concrete, warm wood accents,and strategically placed ikebana arrangements created an aesthetic of serene functionality.

Ruhi, elegant even in her charcoal grey silk loungewear, wasalready in motion. Her fingers, nimble and precise, moved over the touchscreenof her advanced espresso machine, preparing not coffee, but a vibrant,ceremonial-grade matcha. A true Goenka, she handled the intricate ritual withfocused calm, the whisk moving in swift, fluid strokes.

She sipped her matcha, checking the global market indices on her macbook .Her role as the head of GoenkaDiamonds' Japan arm was demanding, requiring a cool head and razor-sharpintellect qualities she possessed in abundance. She wastech-savvy, undeniably cool, and her presence exuded a contained power, a blendof traditional elegance and modern corporate prowess.

A small, delighted giggle broke the silence.

Daksh Poddar, nine years old and already a whirlwind ofcontained energy, scampered into the open-plan living area. He was dressed insoft cotton pajamas, his hair still adorably messy from sleep. He immediatelymade a beeline for the massive, comfortable cushion pile in the corner, wherehe habitually launched into his morning digital adventures.

Daksh (Muttering to his tablet, already immersed in a game):"Almost got you, dragon! Just a few more—"

Suddenly, a loud, pixelated explosion erupted from histablet speakers, followed by a defeated Game Over! chime. Daksh slumped, atheatrical sigh escaping him.

Ruhi glanced over, a fond, knowing smile playing on herlips.

Ruhi (Her voice soft but clear): "Daksh. Language. Andvolume."

Daksh looked up, his face a picture of exaggerated dismay.

Daksh: "Mamma! It ate me! The level boss! I need a TimeOut."

The phrase, "Time Out," hung in the air, a small,bittersweet echo. It was a phrase his father, Rohit Poddar, had affectionatelyused with his family, a playful signal to pause, breathe, and reset. Ruhi'ssmile softened further, a flicker of memory in her eyes before she smoothlybrought herself back to the present.

Ruhi: "Okay, beta. Five minutes of actual 'time out'from the screen. Then, you can help me pick out the vegetarian sushis forbreakfast."

Daksh, momentarily distracted from his digital woes,brightened. He knew his mother, for all her calm, loved a good family drama,especially when it involved Kaira Masi. He bounded toward the kitchen island,ready to contribute to their aesthetic, calm, and strategically planned Tokyo morning.

Daksh bounded back to the kitchen island where Ruhi was nowmeticulously arranging slices of avocado and cucumber for their vegetariansushi breakfast. He leaned against the polished countertop, abandoning hisearlier video game despair for a far more interesting topic: family gossip.

Daksh (Tilting his head, genuinely confused): "Mumma,why does Abhira Masi talk like she’s a TV anchor? She always says things like 'mahabreaking news!' or 'This is a maha big disaster!' And she uses food words forfeelings! Like, 'I have panic ke pakode in my stomach,' or, 'I'm suffering fromanger ka fever.' Is that... is that normal for lawyers in Udaipur?"

Ruhi picked up a delicate piece of inari sushi, examining it critically before placing it on the platter. She let out a small, dramatic sigh, but a playful smirk touched her lips.

Ruhi (Rolling her eyes, then leaning in conspiratorially):"Oh, Dakshu Maharaj, that is a question for the ages. You see, Abhira masi is a wonderful person, but she suffersfrom what we call The Hyper-Dramatic Dialect of the Old City."

Daksh (Eyes wide): "Hyper-Dramatic... what?"

Ruhi: "It’s a condition, darling. It means every smallevent in her life has to be magnified to the power of a thousand. She uses 'maha'to prove the scale of the problem, and she uses food metaphors to prove theinternal emotional trauma. If she's nervous, it's not butterflies; it's 'panicke pakode.' If she's upset, it's not just hot; it's an 'anger ka fever.' Shemakes her feelings sound delicious, but dangerous."

She paused, expertly arranging a sprinkle of black sesameseeds on the platter.

Ruhi: "And the root cause, Daksh? It's all part of hercharm, but mostly, it’s her way of fighting against the Poddar family's 'Maha-Silence-ka-System.'They are so quiet, so controlled, that she feels the need to speak everythingin giant, hyperbolic, tasty phrases just to prove she exists. Just nod andsmile, beta.

Daksh burst out laughing, the absurdity of the explanationsatisfying his nine-year-old logic.

Daksh: "So, if I drop my sushi, should I shout 'Maha-sushi-roll-ka-downfall!'"

Ruhi (Shaking her head, amused): "Absolutely not. Yousay, 'Oh dear, Mumma, could I please have a napkin?' Now, finish yourbreakfast. You need to be sharp. We have a maha-important strategy call with KairaMasi soon, and we need our focus."

The soft chime of the apartment’s smart-lock alerted Ruhi toa delivery. Her Japanese assistant, Kenji, stepped in silently, presenting alarge, square box wrapped in cream-colored raw silk and tied with a goldribbon. It bore the exquisite seal of the Goenka family.

Ruhi set aside her finished matcha and took the box, hercomposure momentarily cracking with genuine excitement. This wasn't just mail;it was an invitation that signalled a major family event.

She carefully slipped the ribbon and lifted the lid. Inside,nestled on a bed of fine paper shredding, was the formal invitation: a thickcard engraved with swirling calligraphy announcing the grand opening of the NairaGoenka Cultural Centre in Udaipur. The hamper also contained a bespokefragrance diffuser and a small silver diya (lamp), making the invitation itselfan aesthetic masterpiece.

Ruhi's eyes, usually cool and focused on stock markettrends, now held a bright, anticipatory sparkle. This was more than a culturalopening; it was the entire family converging, and it was the perfect cover forKaira's strategic maneuvering.

She picked up her phone, the Goenka business flowinginstantly back into her corporate schedule.

Ruhi (Speaking rapidly in fluent, professional Japanese): "Kenji, bijinesu kurasu no chiketto o 2-mai, ima sugu yoyaku shite. Tōkyō kara Munbai keiyu de udaipūru iki. Asunoasa ichiban hayai ben o sagashite. E e, ashitadesu. Sorekara, itsumo no ryokō shorui mo yōi shite. Kaikai-shiki ni shusseki suru ndesu" ("Kenji, please book two business class tickets immediately. Tokyo toUdaipur, via Mumbai. Look for the earliest available flight tomorrow morning.Yes, tomorrow. And prepare the usual travel dossier. We are attending the opening ceremony")

She hung up, a slow, strategic smile spreading across herface. The calm of her Tokyo penthouse was about to collide spectacularly withthe melodrama of Udaipur. Kaira's secret, the "maha complication,"was about to get real-world support.

The morning in the Poddar household was, as usual, a flurryof hurried breakfast, ringing phones, and Kaveri Poddar’s commanding voice. Thekitchen table, unlike the minimalist aesthetic of the Goenka villa, wasoverflowing with newspapers, files, and half-finished cups of tea.

A postman delivered a large, square, cream-colored packagewrapped in raw silk and bearing the distinct Goenka family seal.

Kaveri Poddar, the matriarch, took the box from Vidya, hersharp eyes instantly recognizing the status the invitation represented.

Kaveri (Kaveri's voice ringing with authoritative pride):"Aah. The Goenkas. This must be the invitation for the Naira GoenkaCultural Centre opening. Such fine presentation."

She opened the box, revealing the engraved card and thesilver diya. The inherent prestige of the Goenka name momentarilyeclipsed the recent bitterness.

Kaveri: "This is a social necessity, Armaan. An eventof rutba. We must attend. It shows our standing in the community."

Reactions Around the Table

1. Armaan Poddar (The Humiliated): Armaan, still smartingfrom the ₹2100 lifafa and Kairav’s laughter, immediately pushed hischair back, his face contorted in anger.

Armaan (Bitterly): "Attend?Dadi sa, how can you evensuggest that? After the humiliation they inflicted on us two nights ago? Irefuse to step foot in their maha mansion again!"

2. Vidya Poddar (The Bitchy Analyst): Vidya, Armaan'sstepmother, gave a slow, calculating smile, her eyes fixed on the invitationcard. Her tone was sharp and dismissive, laced with malice aimed directly atKaira.

Vidya (With a cold, bitchy laugh): "Oh, we must go,Armaan. We must! They showed us the extent of their cheapness with the shagun.Now it’s time to assess their daughter. That Kaira Goenka, the one with thehigh-class arrogance, the one who thinks she can assault our boy with ashoe..." Vidya leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "I will go to testKaira. I need to see aakhir kya hai usme .We will see if that Doctor'sdegree matches her attitude."

3. Abhira (The Conflicted): Abhira, who still held complexlove for the memory of the sister/family the center was named after, foundherself torn.

Abhira (Sighing heavily): "Silly boy, it's a centrenamed after Naira Nina It’s important. But... Mera toh dil dukhta hai.Muskan Mami will just give me another lecture on my 'Bandar' language and giveus a fresh dose of snobbery ka sadma."

4. Manisha "Meenu" Poddar (The Aspiring Samdhan):Manisha, Aaryan’s mother, was immediately thrilled by the social prospect.

Manisha (Excitedly, grabbing the card): "Bade Papa, weabsolutely must go! Imagine the photo opportunities! I must call my designerimmediately! This is a chance to show the community that the Poddars are samdhimaterial for the Goenkas' social circle!"

5. Kaveri Poddar (The Strategist): Kaveri raised her hand,silencing the immediate chaos. Her decision was final, based purely on socialoptics.

Kaveri (Firmly): "Enough drama! We are not going for them.We are going for the reputation of Poddar & Poddar Associates. Wewill arrive late, present a large cheque, and leave early. It is a necessarysocial duty. Armaan, control your temper! We will not let them see us affectedby their small insults!"

The invitation was accepted. Vidya's spiteful curiosity hadsealed the Poddar attendance, ensuring a direct confrontation with Kaira at theNaira Goenka Cultural Centre opening.

The announcement of the Goenka event stirred the Poddarhouse not just with anger, but with excitement and underlying familialtensions.

Tanya Raizada Bansal, Krish's wife, who was pouring herselfjuice, suddenly bounced with over-the-top enthusiasm, clapping her hands.

Tanya (Beaming, eyes sparkling): "Oh my God! The NairaCentre opening! This is incredible! I haven't seen Kaira my bestie! in ages!She's finally back in Udaipur, and this is the perfect chance to crash herhouse and hear all the US gossip! I need to call her immediately!"

Vidya seized the moment, her lips curling into a scornfulsneer, aiming her taunt at Tanya’s social eagerness.

Vidya (With a sharp, dismissive wave): "Just becauseyou married into a Poddar branch doesn't mean you automatically get apermanent seat at the Goenka table, Tanya. Control your excitement. You'll makeus look desperate for their company. And don't forget whose family you areactually representing now."

The insult, implying Tanya was chasing her richer, moreprestigious friends, was acidic. Before Tanya could deflate or reply, hermother-in-law, Kajal Poddar Bansal (Kaveri’s daughter), intervened sharply,defending her daughter-in-law with quiet force.

Kajal (Addressing Vidya with a cold, even tone):"Vidya, control your taunts. Tanya is representing the Bansals now.She is excited to meet a close friend. Besides, she is the one who understand show people from the real elite circle operate. Unlike some people,Tanya’s interest in the Goenkas is social, not an urgent need for an education in manners."

The subtle jab suggesting Vidya's only reason for going washer desire to "test" and learn from Kaira was delivered perfectly.Vidya’s sharp retort died on her lips, leaving a fresh layer of cold hostilitysettling over the Poddar breakfast table.

Kaveri simply watched, counting the number of conflicts thesingle invitation had already sparked. The trip to the Naira Goenka CulturalCentre was going to be a battleground, not a social event.

The story is really 👍 👍 😃 😃 so far apart from the Poddar's ..... Everything elegant & classy 😉..... But Ruhi using maha(sarcastically) in her every sentence is ewww... Please don't use her the maha amazing language of Abhira.... She is enough with cringe language😞, we don't need another🤦‍♀️...

Not Cute Dakshu asking his maasi speaks like news reporter 🤣 🤣, he is too funny too....

Aryan-Kaira are good using their 🧠s unlike the cringe kappal....

Not Aryan wishing for Goenka style elite wedding & no bandar references in his wedding is 😂 🤣 literally......

Originally posted by: Fillowship

Awww Kaira parents are so understanding at least in front of their daughter if it was those classless poddars they would be shouting like someone died

Kaira and Aryan are cute too

Will shout over the top of their lungs🤣, Not even bothering to check kids around

Originally posted by: A_Star39

Part 6:Strategy Plan

The silence in the master suite was thick and heavy, broken only by Kairav's sharp demand for the groom's name. Kaira stood before her parents, armed with the truth, bracing herself for the ultimate, chaotic explosion the inevitable fury that would follow the Poddar's name being linked to their daughter's future.

She looked at them, ready for Muskan to shriek about her silk decor and for Kairav to call security.

Kaira (Taking a steadying breath, dropping the bomb):"His name is Aaryan Poddar. And... he is Armaan Poddar's youngerbrother."

Kaira waited for the implosion. She waited for the crash ofthe night cream jar, for Kairav to storm toward the golf clubs again.

The reaction, however, was deafening in its lack of volume.

Muskan simply nodded once, slowly, lowering her hand fromher cheek. Kairav let out a quiet sigh, ran a hand through his hair, and walkedover to sit on the edge of the bed.

Kairav (Calmly, almost conversationally): "Aaryan Poddar. The lawyer brother we heard about. Okay. Good. We had assumed he'd havesome connection to that side of the family."

Muskan (Smoothly, picking up her night cream): "Yes,darling. We are modern and progressive parents, remember? We trust yourjudgment. You are a successful, brilliant doctor. We know you wouldn't choosechaos, only competence."

Kaira stared at them, completely thrown off balance by theircomposure. Her carefully prepared emotional defenses felt suddenly useless.

Kaira (Confused): "Mumma? Papa? Aren't you going to...shout? I kept this a secret for two years! And he's... he's that family."

Kairav leaned back against the headboard, giving Kaira aweary, affectionate look.

Kairav: "Look, beta. We've had enough chaos for oneevening. Your father almost went to jail for golf-club assault, your motheralmost shot a damaad with a relic gun, and we debated the social standing of anickname. That was our quota of melodrama for the week."

Muskan (Finishing her cream application): "Exactly. ThePoddar association is certainly a reputational hurdle, dear. A mahacomplication. But we will deal with it pragmatically. There's no point instressing over logistics at midnight."

Kairav smiled gently, gesturing toward the door.

Kairav: "We are thrilled you're happy, Kaira. But nowyou've given us a huge administrative problem to solve. Go to bed. We'll have aformal strategy meeting tomorrow morning at 8:00 AM, in my study. Bring coffeeand your non-negotiables. We trust you."

Kaira, still clutching the doorknob, realized the terrifyingimplication of their calm: they weren't going to fight her with emotion; theywere going to fight the Poddars with cold, calculated strategy. She wasdismissed.

The moment the door clicked shut behind Kaira, the Goenka'sfacade of modern, progressive composure shattered like cheap glass.

Muskan, who had been resting her head against the silk pillow, suddenly sprang upright, her eyes wide with unholy terror.

Muskan (Hissing, ripping the hair band off her perfectlys tyled hair): "Aaryan Poddar! A PODDAR! Kairav, did you hear that? I toldyou we needed to vet them! Two years! Two years of secrecy! Where did our parvarishgo wrong? Did we raise her to be so devious? Should we have insisted on more arranged dates?"

Kairav, who had remained sitting on the edge of the bed,slowly lowered his head into his hands. He began to laugh—a high-pitched,hysterical sound that was dangerously close to sobbing.

Kairav (Muffled, voice shaking with hysterical laughter):"Devi... devious? Muski, she just attacked a man with a Dior heel, declared war on her future in-laws, and then told us she's marrying into the Mawali family! She's inherited your drama and my bad luck!"

Muskan (Jumping out of bed, pacing rapidly): "Bad luck?This is a curse! A conspiracy! I have to become samdhan with that Meenu Poddar?That woman who wears polyester silks .I cannot! I simply cannot call Manisha Poddar my samdhan!"

Muskan threw herself dramatically onto Kairav's shoulder,half-sobbing, half-cackling at the sheer tragedy of the social descent.

Muskan (Crying into his suit jacket): "Kairav! We'll have to sit next to them at functions! I'll have to exchange recipes! They'll show up to our New York house with their loud traditions and their maha this and maha that! We are ruined!"

Kairav pulled her closer, his own laughter dissolving into genuine tears of frustration and exhaustion.

Kairav (Patting her back, tears streaming down his face):"Hush, Muski, hush! We are Goenkas! We are resourceful! We are progressive!" He pulled back, his voice regaining a desperate, fighting edge. "She said she has a strategy! We will use her pragmatism. We will make them sign so many legal separation papers, they will forget they have as on! We will control the narrative!"

Muskan nodded furiously, wiping her eyes with the sleeve ofher silk pajama top.

Muskan (Slightly steadier, the strategy already forming):"Yes! You are right! We will make that Aaryan Poddar so financially independent, he won't be able to afford a single lifafa from his own family! We will turn this catastrophe into a business transaction! Now," she looked around the room, taking a deep, calming breath. "We need to sleep. We must be sharp for the 8:00 AM strategy meeting. We need to fight this war elegantly!"

The Goenkas, exhausted, hilarious, and utterly determined,finally collapsed back onto the bed, their temporary composure replaced by the steel of strategic intent. The war to control the narrative of Kaira's marriagehad begun.

Meanwhile, across town, the Poddar House was experiencingits own dramatic fallout.

Armaan, Abhira, and Maira returned to the chaotic, cluttered warmth of their home. Abhira, relieved to be back, immediately led Maira to the kitchen, leaving Armaan to fume in the living room.

Armaan, the supposed "eve-teaser" and recipient ofthe infamous ₹2100 shagun, was pacing. He was no longer terror-stricken; he wasa deeply insulted lawyer, his "holier than thou" indignation bubblingover.

Armaan (Muttering, running a hand through his hair): "₹2100!They gave me pocket money! They bought my wife a diamond set and me aceremonial insult! I tell you, Abhira, I am running a 'rage ki railgadi' (trainof rage) inside my head! That Kairav Goenka laughing about 'Jija-Saalinok-jhok' it has given me insult ka injection! They look down on us somuch!"

Abhira returned, setting down a glass of milk for Maira. Her face was tight with suppressed anger.

Abhira (Voice cold, utterly irked): "And Muskan Mami' slecture on 'Ghar ki Lakshmi' versus 'Bandar'! My blood pressure is suffering from judgment ka jhatka (shock of judgment)! That woman's lectures have given me anger ka fever! And you, Silly Boy, didn't even stand up straight during her 'Lakshmi' lecture! My stomach is churning with panic ke pakode over how much they hate us!"

Armaan threw his hands up in exasperation.

Armaan: "They think we are poor! That's the bottomline! They treat us like we are poor, unsuccessful, and unsophisticated because we chose sincerity over stature! Did you see Kaira? That haughty, judgmenta llook? She found the whole thing hilarious! I swear, Abhira, I will never forget that insult! I will show them what this 'local' lawyer is capable of! My entire reputation is spinning on a beizzati ka bhanwar (whirlpool ofdisrespect)!"

Abhira (Slamming her hands down on the table): "And I will show them, Armaan! I will show them that maha amazing work is more valuable than their expensive silence and their designer insults! We are honest! We are ethical! We are not social climbers! They are the ones with the filthy rich hearts, not us! I feel like my entire evening has been nothing buta snobbery ka sadma!"

The "holier than thou" couple, bruised but not broken, stood united in their professional indignation. Unaware of the true bomb that Kaira had dropped just moments ago, they focused all their furious energy on avenging the insults delivered at the disastrous dinner, completely missing the fact that the biggest Goenka-Poddar alliance was about to be officially formed.

Kaira retreated to her room, the adrenaline from the evening the chase, the arguments, and the final, shocking revelation finally beginning to recede. She grabbed her phone, her fingers flying across the screen to dial the one person who understood the complex, strategic game they were playing.

Aaryan answered instantly.

Aaryan (Voice low and warm): "My God, my love. I heardabout the dinner. Armaan bhai just called me, screaming about ₹2100 andsomething about a woman with a very dangerous high heel. Is that woman still myfiancée?"

Kaira (A soft smile touching her lips, leaning against the cold wall): "That woman is very much your fiancée, jaan. And yes, that wasme. Your brother is dramatic, but alive. More importantly, Phase One iscomplete."

Aaryan: "And Phase One was... surviving your parents’golf clubs?"

Kaira: "Phase One was the reveal. I told themeverything. I expected the house to burn down, but they pulled the ultimatepower move: they went completely silent and said they'd handle ittomorrow."

Aaryan: "My respect for Kairav Uncle just went up.They're moving straight to legal strategy. Good."

Kaira: "Exactly. I've been summoned to a formalstrategy meeting tomorrow at 8 AM. They want the entire plan: the moving toMumbai, your branch, and the full separation of assets from the family. It'stime to cash in your share, Aaryan."

Aaryan chuckled quietly, the sound comforting and assured.

Aaryan: "I've had the paperwork ready for a year,waiting for your green light. Papa and mom and the rest of the family will hate the demand, but it's the price of our independence. I'm ready to sign anything they want. Just make sure the wedding is Goenka-style, not Poddar-style. No Bandar references, please."

Kaira (Affectionate): "Don't worry. I'll handle theaesthetic. Just show up with your legal team and your best smile, my strategicpartner."

Aaryan: "Always, Kaira. Now, get some sleep. You'llneed your focus for the board meeting tomorrow. I love you."

Kaira: "I love you too. Wish me luck."

She hung up, the small, tender interaction reaffirming their bond. Their love wasn't built on dramatic pronouncements, but on mutual respect, sharp strategic planning, and a shared goal of escaping the chaotic expectations of their respective families. The real negotiation was about to begin.

Why does ab need her husband to speak up for her esp. since it's her bua and mamu.

That cringe nickname they were correct..at least muski has some leftover affection to her due to the fact that she is her bro kid ..kai does not really seem to care for ak kid as much as muski

The main reason i dislike ab is the hypocrisy and disrespect she shows others ..that over interfering impulsive nature of her mother

Glad aryan and kai have respect for each other and trust apart from love

Originally posted by: A_Star39

Part 7: Sushi and Panic ke pakode

The Tokyo skyline outside the panoramic windows of Ruh iBirla Poddar’s penthouse was just beginning to glow with the soft, etherea llight of a spring dawn. Her apartment, a masterpiece of minimalist luxury,hummed with a quiet, efficient energy. Polished concrete, warm wood accents,and strategically placed ikebana arrangements created an aesthetic of serene functionality.

Ruhi, elegant even in her charcoal grey silk loungewear, wasalready in motion. Her fingers, nimble and precise, moved over the touchscreenof her advanced espresso machine, preparing not coffee, but a vibrant,ceremonial-grade matcha. A true Goenka, she handled the intricate ritual withfocused calm, the whisk moving in swift, fluid strokes.

She sipped her matcha, checking the global market indices on her macbook .Her role as the head of GoenkaDiamonds' Japan arm was demanding, requiring a cool head and razor-sharpintellect qualities she possessed in abundance. She wastech-savvy, undeniably cool, and her presence exuded a contained power, a blendof traditional elegance and modern corporate prowess.

A small, delighted giggle broke the silence.

Daksh Poddar, nine years old and already a whirlwind ofcontained energy, scampered into the open-plan living area. He was dressed insoft cotton pajamas, his hair still adorably messy from sleep. He immediatelymade a beeline for the massive, comfortable cushion pile in the corner, wherehe habitually launched into his morning digital adventures.

Daksh (Muttering to his tablet, already immersed in a game):"Almost got you, dragon! Just a few more—"

Suddenly, a loud, pixelated explosion erupted from histablet speakers, followed by a defeated Game Over! chime. Daksh slumped, atheatrical sigh escaping him.

Ruhi glanced over, a fond, knowing smile playing on herlips.

Ruhi (Her voice soft but clear): "Daksh. Language. Andvolume."

Daksh looked up, his face a picture of exaggerated dismay.

Daksh: "Mamma! It ate me! The level boss! I need a TimeOut."

The phrase, "Time Out," hung in the air, a small,bittersweet echo. It was a phrase his father, Rohit Poddar, had affectionatelyused with his family, a playful signal to pause, breathe, and reset. Ruhi'ssmile softened further, a flicker of memory in her eyes before she smoothlybrought herself back to the present.

Ruhi: "Okay, beta. Five minutes of actual 'time out'from the screen. Then, you can help me pick out the vegetarian sushis forbreakfast."

Daksh, momentarily distracted from his digital woes,brightened. He knew his mother, for all her calm, loved a good family drama,especially when it involved Kaira Masi. He bounded toward the kitchen island,ready to contribute to their aesthetic, calm, and strategically planned Tokyo morning.

Daksh bounded back to the kitchen island where Ruhi was nowmeticulously arranging slices of avocado and cucumber for their vegetariansushi breakfast. He leaned against the polished countertop, abandoning hisearlier video game despair for a far more interesting topic: family gossip.

Daksh (Tilting his head, genuinely confused): "Mumma,why does Abhira Masi talk like she’s a TV anchor? She always says things like 'mahabreaking news!' or 'This is a maha big disaster!' And she uses food words forfeelings! Like, 'I have panic ke pakode in my stomach,' or, 'I'm suffering fromanger ka fever.' Is that... is that normal for lawyers in Udaipur?"

Ruhi picked up a delicate piece of inari sushi, examining it critically before placing it on the platter. She let out a small, dramatic sigh, but a playful smirk touched her lips.

Ruhi (Rolling her eyes, then leaning in conspiratorially):"Oh, Dakshu Maharaj, that is a question for the ages. You see, Abhira masi is a wonderful person, but she suffersfrom what we call The Hyper-Dramatic Dialect of the Old City."

Daksh (Eyes wide): "Hyper-Dramatic... what?"

Ruhi: "It’s a condition, darling. It means every smallevent in her life has to be magnified to the power of a thousand. She uses 'maha'to prove the scale of the problem, and she uses food metaphors to prove theinternal emotional trauma. If she's nervous, it's not butterflies; it's 'panicke pakode.' If she's upset, it's not just hot; it's an 'anger ka fever.' Shemakes her feelings sound delicious, but dangerous."

She paused, expertly arranging a sprinkle of black sesameseeds on the platter.

Ruhi: "And the root cause, Daksh? It's all part of hercharm, but mostly, it’s her way of fighting against the Poddar family's 'Maha-Silence-ka-System.'They are so quiet, so controlled, that she feels the need to speak everythingin giant, hyperbolic, tasty phrases just to prove she exists. Just nod andsmile, beta.

Daksh burst out laughing, the absurdity of the explanationsatisfying his nine-year-old logic.

Daksh: "So, if I drop my sushi, should I shout 'Maha-sushi-roll-ka-downfall!'"

Ruhi (Shaking her head, amused): "Absolutely not. Yousay, 'Oh dear, Mumma, could I please have a napkin?' Now, finish yourbreakfast. You need to be sharp. We have a maha-important strategy call with KairaMasi soon, and we need our focus."

The soft chime of the apartment’s smart-lock alerted Ruhi toa delivery. Her Japanese assistant, Kenji, stepped in silently, presenting alarge, square box wrapped in cream-colored raw silk and tied with a goldribbon. It bore the exquisite seal of the Goenka family.

Ruhi set aside her finished matcha and took the box, hercomposure momentarily cracking with genuine excitement. This wasn't just mail;it was an invitation that signalled a major family event.

She carefully slipped the ribbon and lifted the lid. Inside,nestled on a bed of fine paper shredding, was the formal invitation: a thickcard engraved with swirling calligraphy announcing the grand opening of the NairaGoenka Cultural Centre in Udaipur. The hamper also contained a bespokefragrance diffuser and a small silver diya (lamp), making the invitation itselfan aesthetic masterpiece.

Ruhi's eyes, usually cool and focused on stock markettrends, now held a bright, anticipatory sparkle. This was more than a culturalopening; it was the entire family converging, and it was the perfect cover forKaira's strategic maneuvering.

She picked up her phone, the Goenka business flowinginstantly back into her corporate schedule.

Ruhi (Speaking rapidly in fluent, professional Japanese): "Kenji, bijinesu kurasu no chiketto o 2-mai, ima sugu yoyaku shite. Tōkyō kara Munbai keiyu de udaipūru iki. Asunoasa ichiban hayai ben o sagashite. E e, ashitadesu. Sorekara, itsumo no ryokō shorui mo yōi shite. Kaikai-shiki ni shusseki suru ndesu" ("Kenji, please book two business class tickets immediately. Tokyo toUdaipur, via Mumbai. Look for the earliest available flight tomorrow morning.Yes, tomorrow. And prepare the usual travel dossier. We are attending the opening ceremony")

She hung up, a slow, strategic smile spreading across herface. The calm of her Tokyo penthouse was about to collide spectacularly withthe melodrama of Udaipur. Kaira's secret, the "maha complication,"was about to get real-world support.

The morning in the Poddar household was, as usual, a flurryof hurried breakfast, ringing phones, and Kaveri Poddar’s commanding voice. Thekitchen table, unlike the minimalist aesthetic of the Goenka villa, wasoverflowing with newspapers, files, and half-finished cups of tea.

A postman delivered a large, square, cream-colored packagewrapped in raw silk and bearing the distinct Goenka family seal.

Kaveri Poddar, the matriarch, took the box from Vidya, hersharp eyes instantly recognizing the status the invitation represented.

Kaveri (Kaveri's voice ringing with authoritative pride):"Aah. The Goenkas. This must be the invitation for the Naira GoenkaCultural Centre opening. Such fine presentation."

She opened the box, revealing the engraved card and thesilver diya. The inherent prestige of the Goenka name momentarilyeclipsed the recent bitterness.

Kaveri: "This is a social necessity, Armaan. An eventof rutba. We must attend. It shows our standing in the community."

Reactions Around the Table

1. Armaan Poddar (The Humiliated): Armaan, still smartingfrom the ₹2100 lifafa and Kairav’s laughter, immediately pushed hischair back, his face contorted in anger.

Armaan (Bitterly): "Attend?Dadi sa, how can you evensuggest that? After the humiliation they inflicted on us two nights ago? Irefuse to step foot in their maha mansion again!"

2. Vidya Poddar (The Bitchy Analyst): Vidya, Armaan'sstepmother, gave a slow, calculating smile, her eyes fixed on the invitationcard. Her tone was sharp and dismissive, laced with malice aimed directly atKaira.

Vidya (With a cold, bitchy laugh): "Oh, we must go,Armaan. We must! They showed us the extent of their cheapness with the shagun.Now it’s time to assess their daughter. That Kaira Goenka, the one with thehigh-class arrogance, the one who thinks she can assault our boy with ashoe..." Vidya leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "I will go to testKaira. I need to see aakhir kya hai usme .We will see if that Doctor'sdegree matches her attitude."

3. Abhira (The Conflicted): Abhira, who still held complexlove for the memory of the sister/family the center was named after, foundherself torn.

Abhira (Sighing heavily): "Silly boy, it's a centrenamed after Naira Nina It’s important. But... Mera toh dil dukhta hai.Muskan Mami will just give me another lecture on my 'Bandar' language and giveus a fresh dose of snobbery ka sadma."

4. Manisha "Meenu" Poddar (The Aspiring Samdhan):Manisha, Aaryan’s mother, was immediately thrilled by the social prospect.

Manisha (Excitedly, grabbing the card): "Bade Papa, weabsolutely must go! Imagine the photo opportunities! I must call my designerimmediately! This is a chance to show the community that the Poddars are samdhimaterial for the Goenkas' social circle!"

5. Kaveri Poddar (The Strategist): Kaveri raised her hand,silencing the immediate chaos. Her decision was final, based purely on socialoptics.

Kaveri (Firmly): "Enough drama! We are not going for them.We are going for the reputation of Poddar & Poddar Associates. Wewill arrive late, present a large cheque, and leave early. It is a necessarysocial duty. Armaan, control your temper! We will not let them see us affectedby their small insults!"

The invitation was accepted. Vidya's spiteful curiosity hadsealed the Poddar attendance, ensuring a direct confrontation with Kaira at theNaira Goenka Cultural Centre opening.

The announcement of the Goenka event stirred the Poddarhouse not just with anger, but with excitement and underlying familialtensions.

Tanya Raizada Bansal, Krish's wife, who was pouring herselfjuice, suddenly bounced with over-the-top enthusiasm, clapping her hands.

Tanya (Beaming, eyes sparkling): "Oh my God! The NairaCentre opening! This is incredible! I haven't seen Kaira my bestie! in ages!She's finally back in Udaipur, and this is the perfect chance to crash herhouse and hear all the US gossip! I need to call her immediately!"

Vidya seized the moment, her lips curling into a scornfulsneer, aiming her taunt at Tanya’s social eagerness.

Vidya (With a sharp, dismissive wave): "Just becauseyou married into a Poddar branch doesn't mean you automatically get apermanent seat at the Goenka table, Tanya. Control your excitement. You'll makeus look desperate for their company. And don't forget whose family you areactually representing now."

The insult, implying Tanya was chasing her richer, moreprestigious friends, was acidic. Before Tanya could deflate or reply, hermother-in-law, Kajal Poddar Bansal (Kaveri’s daughter), intervened sharply,defending her daughter-in-law with quiet force.

Kajal (Addressing Vidya with a cold, even tone):"Vidya, control your taunts. Tanya is representing the Bansals now.She is excited to meet a close friend. Besides, she is the one who understand show people from the real elite circle operate. Unlike some people,Tanya’s interest in the Goenkas is social, not an urgent need for an education in manners."

The subtle jab suggesting Vidya's only reason for going washer desire to "test" and learn from Kaira was delivered perfectly.Vidya’s sharp retort died on her lips, leaving a fresh layer of cold hostilitysettling over the Poddar breakfast table.

Kaveri simply watched, counting the number of conflicts thesingle invitation had already sparked. The trip to the Naira Goenka CulturalCentre was going to be a battleground, not a social event.

Atleast my dakshu is happy 🥰

Ru resilience is her asset ..right from.storms ak and ab ar has caused ( her father death due to ak , manyu leaving her behind due to ak , rohit death, ar ab not showing compassion and making her continue the surrogacy) she is successful and happy

How come dadi does not know that ru is the one handling all this and invite is from her too

Will aryan stand by ru or has he stood by her before he fell for kaira

Ruhi and Dakshu ❤️

Loved both updates. I am not good with words, but I really look forward to this story. And I always have a smile on my face when reading it

Part 8: The Meeting

The Poddar House was a labyrinth of watchful eyes, even atdawn. Early mornings were Kaveri Poddar’s domain, a time for barking orders andsurveying her empire. For Aaryan Poddar, it was a prime time for evasion.

He moved through the sprawling house with the stealth of a commando. The faint aroma of ginger tea and parathas came from the kitchen, signaling Kaveri's imminent emergence.

Aaryan was dressed in his most generic gym clothes anon-descript grey t-shirt and track pants a perfect disguise for an early morning escape. He saw Abhira Bhabhi already bustling in the kitchen, humming to herself, oblivious. Armaan Bhai's snores, a familiar rumbling sound,vibrated faintly from his closed bedroom door.

He quickly scribbled a note on the kitchen whiteboard,knowing Abhira would see it first: "Gym, early session. Don't wake me,busy with 'maha fitness' today! - Aaryan." It was just enough of Abhira's own dramatic language to make it sound authentic.

He slipped out the back door, past the sleeping gardener,and into the crisp morning air. His car, a sleek, understated SUV (chosen specifically to avoid Kaveri's flashy tastes), was parked a block away, out of direct sight of the house.

Within minutes, Aaryan was on a quiet side road, the Poddar house receding in his rearview mirror. He pulled over next to a small,unassuming coffee shop, its shutters still down. In the back of his car, a garment bag held his true attire for the morning.

He quickly changed out of his gym clothes, swapping them fora tailored, crisp linen shirt in a muted sage green, perfectly paired with darktrousers and Italian loafers. His hair, usually styled casually, was smoothed back, giving him an air of quiet confidence and understated elegance.

He checked his reflection in the rearview mirror. Gone wasthe gym-bound "Aaryan," the younger, less imposing Poddar. In his place was the sharp, strategic partner Kaira knew, ready to face the formidable Kairav and Muskan Goenka. He took a deep breath, adjusted his cufflinks, and started the engine. The real negotiations were about to begin.

In her sleek, minimalist bedroom, Kaira woke with theprecise clarity of a CEO. There was no time for contemplation, only execution.She swiftly applied her makeup, choosing a palette that emphasizedprofessionalism and strength—a clear contrast to the emotional chaos of theprevious night.

She approached her closet, rejecting several fashionabledresses in favor of a tailored, cream-colored power outfit: a structured blazerand trousers that projected authority. Her final hurdle was her hair.Frustration flickered across her face as she momentarily wrestled with theadvanced technology of her Dyson hair tool, its efficiency momentarily clashingwith her own impatience. She needed every detail perfect for the 8 AM meeting.This wasn't a family chat; it was a contract negotiation, and she was dressingfor victory.

Downstairs, the atmosphere was infused with the scent ofsandalwood and incense. Kairav and Muskan were performing their daily morningaarti in their beautifully appointed home temple. Their devotion was a blend ofgenuine faith and a public reaffirmation of their traditional, culturedstanding.

Muskan was draped in a flowy, elegant saree, its rich silk moving gracefully as she circled the diya (lamp). Her hair was perfectlycoiled, her expression serene and poised—the picture of the perfect bahu andhostess.

Beside her, Kairav stood tall, his posture refined. He wasdressed in crisp white cotton paired with an elegant bundi (a traditionalNehru-style vest) in a subdued jewel tone. The outfit spoke of inherited wealthand quiet power.

As the final bell of the aarti chimed, their faces werecalm, the emotional hysteria of the previous night completely erased. Theyexchanged a look not of parental worry, but of synchronized, focused intent.The ritual was complete; the strategic meeting was next. They were ready to negotiate their daughter's future with the same precision they applied to their corporate empire.

Aaryan arrived at the Goenka villa exactly on time, theexterior of the house looking even more formidable in the clear morning light.He was instantly greeted by a silent butler who escorted him through the grand,hushed hallways—a stark contrast to the lively chaos of the Poddar home.

The butler opened the doors to Kairav Goenka’s high-class study, a room dominated by dark wood, leather, and framed awards that spokevolumes of corporate success.

The air was thick with tension, not of hatred, but of acold, financial appraisal.

Kairav (Placing a palm flat on the desk): "Goodmorning, Aaryan. We are past the emotional shock. Now, we deal in logistics and stability. What exactly is your plan? What is the complete roadmap for your separation from the Udaipur structure?"

Aaryan leaned forward, his demeanor now sharper than ever,making the proposal sound less like a marriage plan and more like a hostile corporate takeover disguised as an internal promotion.

Aaryan: "Mr. Goenka, the plan is not a messy exit; it’sa strategic restructuring. I am leveraging my father's—Manoj Poddar's position and my own capabilities to push for the formal establishment and leadership ofthe Poddar Law Firm, Mumbai Branch."

Kaira took the lead, emphasizing the mutual benefits and the complete severance from the Udaipur drama.

Kaira (Looking directly at Muskan): "The Mumbai Branch is the key. Aaryan is positioning this as a necessary expansion for the firm,one that requires his full, undivided attention and his immediate family'spresence."

Muskan (Eyes narrowing, sensing the true motive): "Andwho exactly constitutes your immediate family in this strategic relocation,Aaryan?"

Aaryan: "My mother, Manisha, my father, Manoj, and mysister, Kiara. They will all relocate to Mumbai. This move achieves a complete and permanent severance from the drama and chaos of household. "

Kairav tapped his pen, slightly impressed by the audacityand completeness of the plan.

Kairav: "A bold move. But what about Kaira? How does moving to Mumbai benefit my daughter professionally?"

Kaira: "That is the primary driver, Mr goenka. Mumbai is the medical hub of India. The move ensures my Dermatology Clinic gets maximumexposure and a clientele base that matches the Goenka standard. We establish alife of supreme professional stability and high social stature, completelyseparate from Udaipur."

Muskan finally offered a slow nod of approval, a flicker ofsatisfaction in her eyes. This wasn't just Kaira marrying; this was Kairastrategically acquiring a new, upgraded life, dismantling the Poddar structurein the process.

Muskan: "So, you use the firm's ambition to create a clean,permanent physical and professional barrier between your future and yourbrother's past. Aaryan, this plan is—"

Kairav (Finishing Muskan's thought): " Acceptable. Itremoves the instability and, crucially, ensures that their chaotic structurecannot follow Kaira."

The conversation had moved into the specifics of the legalframework, but Muskan still had one major concern regarding the entrenchedhierarchy of the Poddar matriarchs.

Muskan (Her voice dropping, laced with warning): "Thephysical distance is sound, Aaryan. But what about the mental distance? We sawthe dynamics at your home. Your grandmother, Kaveri Poddar, is a force, andyour Taiji, Vidya, has a particular bitterness about her. They will stilldemand obedience. They will try to dictate Kaira's decisions her clinic, herwork schedule, even her personal life. How do you ensure that Kaira, mydaughter, is not subjected to the commands of Vidya or Kaveri?"

Aaryan met Muskan's gaze without hesitation, understandingthat this was a test of his commitment to Kaira's independence.

Aaryan (Firmly): "Mrs. Goenka, there are two answers tothat. Firstly, the Mumbai branch and Kaira's clinic will be entirelyautonomous, financially and geographically. They will have zero operationalauthority over us. Secondly, and more importantly, my commitment is to Kaira'sprofessional identity. I can assure you, with my complete support, they willnot even think of trying to instruct Kaira."

He paused, ensuring his next words carried maximum impact,addressing the core of the Goenkas' anxiety the influence of Abhira.

Aaryan: "And finally, Mrs. Goenka, you need tounderstand one crucial thing: Kaira isn't Abhira. Kaira is highly educated,fully established, and professionally autonomous. She deals in facts, notfeelings. She won't introduce melodrama or be susceptible to the emotionalmanipulation that defines the Udaipur household. Kaira Goenka is not a Poddar bahu(daughter-in-law) who bows to pressure or inherits chaos. She is Dr. KairaGoenka, the head of her own professional empire."

Kairav looked from Aaryan to Kaira, who gave a small,confident nod, silently affirming Aaryan's statement. The parents recognizedthat Aaryan had not only anticipated their concerns but had successfullycontrasted their daughter's value against the perceived instability of theirniece.

Kaira stood on the expansive balcony of her room, gazing out at the distant lights of Udaipur . The meeting had been a success a cold,calculated victory but the sheer complexity of the life she was choosing weighed on her.

The sliding door opened quietly, and Muskan and Kairav entered. They didn't speak immediately, sensing the fragile mood of their daughter.

Muskan (Her voice soft, tinged with genuine fear): "It went well, Kaira. The strategy is sound. Aaryan is shrewd. But..."

Kairav walked to her side, his usual composure etched with visible anxiety.

Kairav: "But the strategy only covers the financial and geographical distance, beta. It doesn't cover the genetic instability. Muskan and I, we've been talking, thinking about Abhira's entire life story... and we're scared."

Muskan gently placed a hand on Kaira’s arm.

Muskan: "We are not naive, Kaira. We know what it meansto marry into that family. We saw how Armaan treated his wife, your own cousin,Abhira."

Kairav leaned against the railing, recounting the litany ofArmaan Poddar’s actions, the pattern of instability, abandonment, and controlthat terrified them.

Kairav: "Armaan Poddar. He built a relationship with Ruhi only to ask her to 'move on' when she married Rohit. He entered a deal marriage with Abhira, but when Rohit died, he swung back to Ruhi, only to abandon her atthe mandap publicly. This is not loyalty; this is chaos."

Muskan (Voice dropping in disgust): "Then the years with Abhira... the pattern is horrific. He married her, then gave her the silenttreatment for three months because his mother, Vidya, disapproved. He pressureda 23-year-old lawyer to become pregnant at the start of her career. And when she suffered the tragedy of a stillborn, what did he do? He chose to hide thetruth and let her live a lie, all because he couldn't handle her grief. Hedecided her career was over and slapped a resignation letter on her desk."

Kairav shook his head slowly, the shame of the Poddar name palpable.

Kairav: "He diverts from his 'big ethics' to blame Abhir in court the brother whose paralysis was caused by Vidya just to protecthis family. Then, when Abhira tries to pursue justice, he destroys her career with a false bribe allegation. Later, when she struggles with motherhood partlydue to his own actions, he humiliates her, calls her incapable, and insults herby throwing a vase at a mirror. He decides he is the only one capable ofraising Maira (Pookie) and effectively kidnaps his own daughter for seven years,hiding her existence from the world."

Muskan gripped Kaira's hand tighter, the fear in her eyesprofound.

Muskan: “Kaira,I cannot handle you getting hurt in any way. Abhira’sdoormat mentality even landed her in jail. Are you sure about Aaryan?”

Kaira turned her gaze from the distant lights back to herworried parents, her expression shifting from thoughtfulness to sharp, almostoffended resolve.

Kaira (Her voice dangerously calm, laced with disbelief):"Papa? Mumma? Are you seriously underestimating me right now?"

She stepped away from the railing, meeting their gaze withunwavering intensity.

Kaira: "After all the strategies I’ve executed theyears of secrecy, the planning for the Mumbai clinic, the audacity to useAaryan’s own family against him you think I will fold the moment Vidya Poddar raises an eyebrow or Kaveri Poddar issues a command? You think I am somefragile piece of glassware they can shatter with a stern look?"

A slow, chilling smile touched her lips, a clear indicationthat the Goenka ruthlessness was strong in her.

Kaira: "I am not Abhira. I am not going to be a victim,and I am certainly not going to be a martyr. My love for Aaryan is genuine, butmy self-preservation is absolute. I am a Goenka. If they try to exert control,if they try to trouble me even for a bit a single taunt, a single demand aboutmy clinic, a single attempt to undermine my life in Mumbai I will retaliate. Ihave the leverage, I have the contract, and I have the financial separation. Iwill use the law and I will use their own social standing against them."

She concluded with a fierce confidence that brooked noargument.

Kaira: "I will torture the Poddars to hell if they tryto disrupt my life. They will regret the day they mistook me for a Bichari bahu.Trust me, Mumma. I have this."

Kairav and Muskan could only stare, realizing their daughterwasn't just planning a marriage; she was planning a reign. Her final assurancewas not one of peace, but of guaranteed, devastating warfare should the Poddarsstep out of line.

The warm, dry air of Udaipur hit Ruhi and Daksh as theystepped out of the private lounge area of the airport. Their travel experience,curated for absolute comfort, contrasted sharply with the loud, emotionalreception waiting for them.

Armaan and Abhira stood waiting near the arrivals barrier,armed with plastic smiles and a sense of familial duty. Armaan wore a look ofstrained pleasantness, while Abhira was clearly prepared to embrace her role asthe welcoming Taiji.

Daksh immediately ran to Abhira, who scooped him up in atight, dramatic hug.

Daksh (Excitedly): "Abhira Masi! Did you bring the panicke pakode? Mamma said you make the best ones!"

Abhira (Laughing loudly): "Of course, my little bhanja!You've arrived! This is maha happy news! Now, let me see your mother!"

Ruhi walked over, her posture impeccably straight. She gaveAbhira a genuinely warm, cousinly embrace, which lasted a touch too long to bepolite.

Ruhi (Softly): "It’s good to see you, Abhira. You lookwell."

She then turned to Armaan, who stepped forward, offering aprofessional hand.

Armaan (Smiling tightly): "Ruhi. Welcome home. We’reglad you and Daksh are here. It’s been too long."

Ruhi met his gaze, and the warmth instantly vanished. Herexpression became glacial—the cold shoulder was absolute. She bypassed his handentirely, nodding curtly towards his chest.

Ruhi: "Armaan. Yes. Thank you."

She immediately signaled to the porter managing her designerluggage.

Ruhi (To the porter): "The Goenka Villa, please. We areexpected there."

Abhira stepped forward, her sense of duty immediatelykicking in, determined to uphold the family tradition of hosting.

Abhira (Placing a firm, possessive hand on Ruhi's arm):"Ruhi, wait! What are you saying? You can’t go to the Goenka Villa! We areyour family! You, Daksh, Maira, Armaan we are the Poddars! Dadisa and Maa andPapa are waiting. You are coming straight to the Poddar House. It’s your home,Di, it's your rightful place!"

Armaan silently nodded his agreement, expecting Ruhi tocomply with the family command.

Ruhi gently, but firmly, removed Abhira's hand. Her toneremained calm, but beneath the surface, it was steel.

Ruhi (Her eyes hardening, reminding Abhira of theirhierarchy): "Abhira, listen to me carefully. I am Ruhi Di, your eldersister, and your elder cousin. I just spent eight hours flying from Tokyo. Idon't need a lecture on family duty, and I certainly don't need the maha chaosof the Poddar House right now."

Ruhi leaned in, her voice dropping to an intimidatingwhisper.

Ruhi: " You will take us to the Goenka Villa now. Or Iwill simply call Muski mami and have her send a driver. Your choice."

Abhira’s face flushed, momentarily stunned by the authorityin Ruhi’s voice. The defence crumbled immediately under the power of her eldersister's command.

Abhira (Defeated, sighing): "Fine, Ruhi Di. I'll tellthe driver. But this is going to give Dadisa a Maha Jhatka!"

Ruhi simply smiled, coolly regaining control of thesituation.

Armaan and Abhira returned to the Poddar house, the polishedtiles and opulent furniture seeming to mock their failure. The air in thehouse, usually buzzing with activity, felt heavy with anticipation and quietfury.

Kaveri Poddar was seated in the living room, surrounded byher sons and daughters-in-law. She didn't look up, but her voice, sharp andlaced with annoyance, cut through the silence the moment they walked in.

Kaveri (Without looking up): "You are late. And whereis my granddaughter-in-law, Ruhi, and my great-grandson, Daksh? I trust youbrought them straight here, as is the tradition?"

Armaan sighed, running a hand over his face, unable to maskhis humiliation.

Armaan: "Bade Papa, she refused. She wouldn't evenaccept my handshake. She insisted on going straight to the Goenka Villa. Shesaid she needed a 'secure, stable base of operations' and didn't want thePoddar 'chaos.'"

A collective gasp went around the room.

Vidya Poddar (The Angry Mother/Grandmother): Vidya's angerwas immediate and piercing, driven by a deep sense of insult to her status asDaksh's paternal grandmother.

Vidya (Leaping to her feet, her voice trembling with rage):"Refused? She went to the Goenka Villa? My bahu rejected her own family,her own son's Dadi, for those arrogant outsiders? Daksh is Rohit’s son! Heshould be in this house, sleeping in his father’s room! This is the height ofdisrespect! She has shown us exactly where her loyalties lie, Maa sa !"

Kaveri Poddar (The Annoyed Matriarch): Kaveri remainedseated but her eyes flashed, seeing the event as a direct challenge to thePoddar rutba.

Kaveri: "This is not about loyalty, Vidya; this isabout manners. We are not some small-time family whose invitations can bedismissed. Ruhi may be a Goenka, but she married into this house! She hasinsulted the entire family’s name by running straight to her maternal home,making it look like we are incapable of hosting our own kin!"

Armaan watched the internal chaos explode, his humiliationmorphing into a bitter conviction. Ruhi had fired the opening shot, and theGoenkas had declared war long before the cultural centre doors opened.

The tension melted away the moment the car pulled up to theserene Goenka Villa. The atmosphere inside was one of quiet, genuine warmth, astark contrast to the emotional battlefield of the Poddar house.

Kairav and Muskan were waiting in the foyer. They moved pastthe elegant front hall, instantly shedding their corporate armor to embracetheir kin.

Muskan (Her voice thick with emotion, hugging Ruhi tightly):"Ruhi! My sweet child! We were so worried about that long flight. Welcomehome, beta."

Kairav (His face softening into a rare, genuine smile,hugging Ruhi): "Welcome back, Ruhi beta. Thank you for choosing to comestraight here. It means a great deal."

Daksh immediately ran to Kairav, who laughed and scooped uphis grand-nephew.

Daksh: "Nana! Nani! Mom said we have the best pillowshere and no one shouts the word 'maha'!"

Muskan chuckled, taking Daksh into her own arms.

Muskan: "No shouting, darling. Only elegance and quiet.We're thrilled you're here." She held Ruhi's hands, her expression turningserious for a moment. "It’s good you didn't go to the Poddar house. Weheard the message was loud and clear. They must be furious."

Ruhi (Smiling, the tension finally easing from hershoulders): "They are beyond furious, Mamma. They are scrambling. But I amnot here for tea and pakode at their house; I am here for Kaira. Where is thechief strategist?"

Kairav (Gesturing toward the stairs): "She's upstairs,pretending to review her clinic blueprints. But she’s really just waiting forher strongest ally to arrive. Come, let's get you settled. The entire Goenkafamily is converging, Ruhi. We are relying on your insight. The war is officiallyon."

Kairav put a hand on Ruhi's shoulder, ushering her towardthe stairs. The welcome wasn't just familial; it was the quiet, confidentgreeting of one general to another, establishing their united front against theimpending chaos of the Poddar family.

Ruhi found Kaira seated at a sleek, ergonomic desk, amassive blueprint of her planned Mumbai dermatology clinic spread out beforeher. Kaira was holding a stylus, frowning in deep concentration, but Ruhi knewher better.

Ruhi leaned silently against the doorframe, crossing herarms, and watched Kaira for a moment.

Ruhi (Suddenly, with a theatrical sigh): "Aah, theintense concentration. Is this about the new laser technology, or are you justpretending to look busy so your parents don't realize you’re in a maha panicabout marrying a Poddar?"

Kaira startled, dropping her stylus, then looked up, herface breaking into a huge, genuine grin.

Kaira (Jumping up and rushing to hug Ruhi): "Di! You'rehere! You know, for the Head of Goenka Diamonds Japan, you have terribleboundary management."

Ruhi (Hugging her tightly): "And for a strategicgenius, you have terrible taste in men's families. But listen, I had to comestraight up. My flight was long, but my desire to mock you was stronger."

Ruhi sat on the edge of the desk, swinging one perfect foot.

Ruhi: "Seriously, Kaira? The safe, quiet, youngerbrother? The one who never causes a scene? I thought you’d choose someone whoflew a jet to woo you, not someone who’s practically silent in a room full ofchaos. It’s so... responsible."

Kaira (Rolling her eyes, but smiling): "Oh, you are oneto talk, Mrs. Ruhi Birla Poddar. You married the kind, stable one, Rohit, rightafter the chaotic one, Armaan, tried to wreck your life! I just skipped thedisaster part. And Aaryan is only responsible because he’s terrified of becominghis brother."

Ruhi (Waving a dismissive hand): "Exactly! Which makeshim perfect for us Goenkas. But the way he was talking about you to Muskan Mamiabout your 'professional autonomy' and 'superior stature'I swear, he soundedless like a fiancé and more like your incredibly competent, well-vetted COO (ChiefOperating Officer)."

Kaira laughed, the tension from the morning's strategysession finally dissolving.

Kaira: "That’s the point, Di. I need a COO, not aliability. But tell me, you've seen the chaos up close. What's the real mood?And what about Armaan? Did he look suitably miserable at the airport?"

Ruhi smirked, leaning closer to share the airport gossip,her eyes now glittering with strategic focus. The moment of levity was over;the planning had begun.

Part 8 is out

Part 8 is out girls

I liked how kaira said she loved Aryan but she also thinking logically

And Aryan should ditch his useless mother father sister too. Why he thinks any amount of planning plotting and excuse of Mumbai will take these people away from Nalla poddars? He needs to leave these losers. Let them rot

Dakshu maharaj probably thought aunty will feed his panic k pakode lol. I liked how ruhi was firm. Of course kaveri Vidya drama over it. All these years they didn't remember about grand daughter in law suddenly so much love

The drama will start on naira centre opening i guess. Arman bageera planning plotting idk what these two will do

I want a drama of bageera overdoting on daksh and ruhi showing her aukat and maida also being pissed

Originally posted by: A_Star39

Part 8: The Meeting

The Poddar House was a labyrinth of watchful eyes, even atdawn. Early mornings were Kaveri Poddar’s domain, a time for barking orders andsurveying her empire. For Aaryan Poddar, it was a prime time for evasion.

He moved through the sprawling house with the stealth of a commando. The faint aroma of ginger tea and parathas came from the kitchen, signaling Kaveri's imminent emergence.

Aaryan was dressed in his most generic gym clothes anon-descript grey t-shirt and track pants a perfect disguise for an early morning escape. He saw Abhira Bhabhi already bustling in the kitchen, humming to herself, oblivious. Armaan Bhai's snores, a familiar rumbling sound,vibrated faintly from his closed bedroom door.

He quickly scribbled a note on the kitchen whiteboard,knowing Abhira would see it first: "Gym, early session. Don't wake me,busy with 'maha fitness' today! - Aaryan." It was just enough of Abhira's own dramatic language to make it sound authentic.

He slipped out the back door, past the sleeping gardener,and into the crisp morning air. His car, a sleek, understated SUV (chosen specifically to avoid Kaveri's flashy tastes), was parked a block away, out of direct sight of the house.

Within minutes, Aaryan was on a quiet side road, the Poddar house receding in his rearview mirror. He pulled over next to a small,unassuming coffee shop, its shutters still down. In the back of his car, a garment bag held his true attire for the morning.

He quickly changed out of his gym clothes, swapping them fora tailored, crisp linen shirt in a muted sage green, perfectly paired with darktrousers and Italian loafers. His hair, usually styled casually, was smoothed back, giving him an air of quiet confidence and understated elegance.

He checked his reflection in the rearview mirror. Gone wasthe gym-bound "Aaryan," the younger, less imposing Poddar. In his place was the sharp, strategic partner Kaira knew, ready to face the formidable Kairav and Muskan Goenka. He took a deep breath, adjusted his cufflinks, and started the engine. The real negotiations were about to begin.

In her sleek, minimalist bedroom, Kaira woke with theprecise clarity of a CEO. There was no time for contemplation, only execution.She swiftly applied her makeup, choosing a palette that emphasizedprofessionalism and strength—a clear contrast to the emotional chaos of theprevious night.

She approached her closet, rejecting several fashionabledresses in favor of a tailored, cream-colored power outfit: a structured blazerand trousers that projected authority. Her final hurdle was her hair.Frustration flickered across her face as she momentarily wrestled with theadvanced technology of her Dyson hair tool, its efficiency momentarily clashingwith her own impatience. She needed every detail perfect for the 8 AM meeting.This wasn't a family chat; it was a contract negotiation, and she was dressingfor victory.

Downstairs, the atmosphere was infused with the scent ofsandalwood and incense. Kairav and Muskan were performing their daily morningaarti in their beautifully appointed home temple. Their devotion was a blend ofgenuine faith and a public reaffirmation of their traditional, culturedstanding.

Muskan was draped in a flowy, elegant saree, its rich silk moving gracefully as she circled the diya (lamp). Her hair was perfectlycoiled, her expression serene and poised—the picture of the perfect bahu andhostess.

Beside her, Kairav stood tall, his posture refined. He wasdressed in crisp white cotton paired with an elegant bundi (a traditionalNehru-style vest) in a subdued jewel tone. The outfit spoke of inherited wealthand quiet power.

As the final bell of the aarti chimed, their faces werecalm, the emotional hysteria of the previous night completely erased. Theyexchanged a look not of parental worry, but of synchronized, focused intent.The ritual was complete; the strategic meeting was next. They were ready to negotiate their daughter's future with the same precision they applied to their corporate empire.

Aaryan arrived at the Goenka villa exactly on time, theexterior of the house looking even more formidable in the clear morning light.He was instantly greeted by a silent butler who escorted him through the grand,hushed hallways—a stark contrast to the lively chaos of the Poddar home.

The butler opened the doors to Kairav Goenka’s high-class study, a room dominated by dark wood, leather, and framed awards that spokevolumes of corporate success.

The air was thick with tension, not of hatred, but of acold, financial appraisal.

Kairav (Placing a palm flat on the desk): "Goodmorning, Aaryan. We are past the emotional shock. Now, we deal in logistics and stability. What exactly is your plan? What is the complete roadmap for your separation from the Udaipur structure?"

Aaryan leaned forward, his demeanor now sharper than ever,making the proposal sound less like a marriage plan and more like a hostile corporate takeover disguised as an internal promotion.

Aaryan: "Mr. Goenka, the plan is not a messy exit; it’sa strategic restructuring. I am leveraging my father's—Manoj Poddar's position and my own capabilities to push for the formal establishment and leadership ofthe Poddar Law Firm, Mumbai Branch."

Kaira took the lead, emphasizing the mutual benefits and the complete severance from the Udaipur drama.

Kaira (Looking directly at Muskan): "The Mumbai Branch is the key. Aaryan is positioning this as a necessary expansion for the firm,one that requires his full, undivided attention and his immediate family'spresence."

Muskan (Eyes narrowing, sensing the true motive): "Andwho exactly constitutes your immediate family in this strategic relocation,Aaryan?"

Aaryan: "My mother, Manisha, my father, Manoj, and mysister, Kiara. They will all relocate to Mumbai. This move achieves a complete and permanent severance from the drama and chaos of household. "

Kairav tapped his pen, slightly impressed by the audacityand completeness of the plan.

Kairav: "A bold move. But what about Kaira? How does moving to Mumbai benefit my daughter professionally?"

Kaira: "That is the primary driver, Mr goenka. Mumbai is the medical hub of India. The move ensures my Dermatology Clinic gets maximumexposure and a clientele base that matches the Goenka standard. We establish alife of supreme professional stability and high social stature, completelyseparate from Udaipur."

Muskan finally offered a slow nod of approval, a flicker ofsatisfaction in her eyes. This wasn't just Kaira marrying; this was Kairastrategically acquiring a new, upgraded life, dismantling the Poddar structurein the process.

Muskan: "So, you use the firm's ambition to create a clean,permanent physical and professional barrier between your future and yourbrother's past. Aaryan, this plan is—"

Kairav (Finishing Muskan's thought): " Acceptable. Itremoves the instability and, crucially, ensures that their chaotic structurecannot follow Kaira."

The conversation had moved into the specifics of the legalframework, but Muskan still had one major concern regarding the entrenchedhierarchy of the Poddar matriarchs.

Muskan (Her voice dropping, laced with warning): "Thephysical distance is sound, Aaryan. But what about the mental distance? We sawthe dynamics at your home. Your grandmother, Kaveri Poddar, is a force, andyour Taiji, Vidya, has a particular bitterness about her. They will stilldemand obedience. They will try to dictate Kaira's decisions her clinic, herwork schedule, even her personal life. How do you ensure that Kaira, mydaughter, is not subjected to the commands of Vidya or Kaveri?"

Aaryan met Muskan's gaze without hesitation, understandingthat this was a test of his commitment to Kaira's independence.

Aaryan (Firmly): "Mrs. Goenka, there are two answers tothat. Firstly, the Mumbai branch and Kaira's clinic will be entirelyautonomous, financially and geographically. They will have zero operationalauthority over us. Secondly, and more importantly, my commitment is to Kaira'sprofessional identity. I can assure you, with my complete support, they willnot even think of trying to instruct Kaira."

He paused, ensuring his next words carried maximum impact,addressing the core of the Goenkas' anxiety the influence of Abhira.

Aaryan: "And finally, Mrs. Goenka, you need tounderstand one crucial thing: Kaira isn't Abhira. Kaira is highly educated,fully established, and professionally autonomous. She deals in facts, notfeelings. She won't introduce melodrama or be susceptible to the emotionalmanipulation that defines the Udaipur household. Kaira Goenka is not a Poddar bahu(daughter-in-law) who bows to pressure or inherits chaos. She is Dr. KairaGoenka, the head of her own professional empire."

Kairav looked from Aaryan to Kaira, who gave a small,confident nod, silently affirming Aaryan's statement. The parents recognizedthat Aaryan had not only anticipated their concerns but had successfullycontrasted their daughter's value against the perceived instability of theirniece.

Kaira stood on the expansive balcony of her room, gazing out at the distant lights of Udaipur . The meeting had been a success a cold,calculated victory but the sheer complexity of the life she was choosing weighed on her.

The sliding door opened quietly, and Muskan and Kairav entered. They didn't speak immediately, sensing the fragile mood of their daughter.

Muskan (Her voice soft, tinged with genuine fear): "It went well, Kaira. The strategy is sound. Aaryan is shrewd. But..."

Kairav walked to her side, his usual composure etched with visible anxiety.

Kairav: "But the strategy only covers the financial and geographical distance, beta. It doesn't cover the genetic instability. Muskan and I, we've been talking, thinking about Abhira's entire life story... and we're scared."

Muskan gently placed a hand on Kaira’s arm.

Muskan: "We are not naive, Kaira. We know what it meansto marry into that family. We saw how Armaan treated his wife, your own cousin,Abhira."

Kairav leaned against the railing, recounting the litany ofArmaan Poddar’s actions, the pattern of instability, abandonment, and controlthat terrified them.

Kairav: "Armaan Poddar. He built a relationship with Ruhi only to ask her to 'move on' when she married Rohit. He entered a deal marriage with Abhira, but when Rohit died, he swung back to Ruhi, only to abandon her atthe mandap publicly. This is not loyalty; this is chaos."

Muskan (Voice dropping in disgust): "Then the years with Abhira... the pattern is horrific. He married her, then gave her the silenttreatment for three months because his mother, Vidya, disapproved. He pressureda 23-year-old lawyer to become pregnant at the start of her career. And when she suffered the tragedy of a stillborn, what did he do? He chose to hide thetruth and let her live a lie, all because he couldn't handle her grief. Hedecided her career was over and slapped a resignation letter on her desk."

Kairav shook his head slowly, the shame of the Poddar name palpable.

Kairav: "He diverts from his 'big ethics' to blame Abhir in court the brother whose paralysis was caused by Vidya just to protecthis family. Then, when Abhira tries to pursue justice, he destroys her career with a false bribe allegation. Later, when she struggles with motherhood partlydue to his own actions, he humiliates her, calls her incapable, and insults herby throwing a vase at a mirror. He decides he is the only one capable ofraising Maira (Pookie) and effectively kidnaps his own daughter for seven years,hiding her existence from the world."

Muskan gripped Kaira's hand tighter, the fear in her eyesprofound.

Muskan: “Kaira,I cannot handle you getting hurt in any way. Abhira’sdoormat mentality even landed her in jail. Are you sure about Aaryan?”

Kaira turned her gaze from the distant lights back to herworried parents, her expression shifting from thoughtfulness to sharp, almostoffended resolve.

Kaira (Her voice dangerously calm, laced with disbelief):"Papa? Mumma? Are you seriously underestimating me right now?"

She stepped away from the railing, meeting their gaze withunwavering intensity.

Kaira: "After all the strategies I’ve executed theyears of secrecy, the planning for the Mumbai clinic, the audacity to useAaryan’s own family against him you think I will fold the moment Vidya Poddar raises an eyebrow or Kaveri Poddar issues a command? You think I am somefragile piece of glassware they can shatter with a stern look?"

A slow, chilling smile touched her lips, a clear indicationthat the Goenka ruthlessness was strong in her.

Kaira: "I am not Abhira. I am not going to be a victim,and I am certainly not going to be a martyr. My love for Aaryan is genuine, butmy self-preservation is absolute. I am a Goenka. If they try to exert control,if they try to trouble me even for a bit a single taunt, a single demand aboutmy clinic, a single attempt to undermine my life in Mumbai I will retaliate. Ihave the leverage, I have the contract, and I have the financial separation. Iwill use the law and I will use their own social standing against them."

She concluded with a fierce confidence that brooked noargument.

Kaira: "I will torture the Poddars to hell if they tryto disrupt my life. They will regret the day they mistook me for a Bichari bahu.Trust me, Mumma. I have this."

Kairav and Muskan could only stare, realizing their daughterwasn't just planning a marriage; she was planning a reign. Her final assurancewas not one of peace, but of guaranteed, devastating warfare should the Poddarsstep out of line.

The warm, dry air of Udaipur hit Ruhi and Daksh as theystepped out of the private lounge area of the airport. Their travel experience,curated for absolute comfort, contrasted sharply with the loud, emotionalreception waiting for them.

Armaan and Abhira stood waiting near the arrivals barrier,armed with plastic smiles and a sense of familial duty. Armaan wore a look ofstrained pleasantness, while Abhira was clearly prepared to embrace her role asthe welcoming Taiji.

Daksh immediately ran to Abhira, who scooped him up in atight, dramatic hug.

Daksh (Excitedly): "Abhira Masi! Did you bring the panicke pakode? Mamma said you make the best ones!"

Abhira (Laughing loudly): "Of course, my little bhanja!You've arrived! This is maha happy news! Now, let me see your mother!"

Ruhi walked over, her posture impeccably straight. She gaveAbhira a genuinely warm, cousinly embrace, which lasted a touch too long to bepolite.

Ruhi (Softly): "It’s good to see you, Abhira. You lookwell."

She then turned to Armaan, who stepped forward, offering aprofessional hand.

Armaan (Smiling tightly): "Ruhi. Welcome home. We’reglad you and Daksh are here. It’s been too long."

Ruhi met his gaze, and the warmth instantly vanished. Herexpression became glacial—the cold shoulder was absolute. She bypassed his handentirely, nodding curtly towards his chest.

Ruhi: "Armaan. Yes. Thank you."

She immediately signaled to the porter managing her designerluggage.

Ruhi (To the porter): "The Goenka Villa, please. We areexpected there."

Abhira stepped forward, her sense of duty immediatelykicking in, determined to uphold the family tradition of hosting.

Abhira (Placing a firm, possessive hand on Ruhi's arm):"Ruhi, wait! What are you saying? You can’t go to the Goenka Villa! We areyour family! You, Daksh, Maira, Armaan we are the Poddars! Dadisa and Maa andPapa are waiting. You are coming straight to the Poddar House. It’s your home,Di, it's your rightful place!"

Armaan silently nodded his agreement, expecting Ruhi tocomply with the family command.

Ruhi gently, but firmly, removed Abhira's hand. Her toneremained calm, but beneath the surface, it was steel.

Ruhi (Her eyes hardening, reminding Abhira of theirhierarchy): "Abhira, listen to me carefully. I am Ruhi Di, your eldersister, and your elder cousin. I just spent eight hours flying from Tokyo. Idon't need a lecture on family duty, and I certainly don't need the maha chaosof the Poddar House right now."

Ruhi leaned in, her voice dropping to an intimidatingwhisper.

Ruhi: " You will take us to the Goenka Villa now. Or Iwill simply call Muski mami and have her send a driver. Your choice."

Abhira’s face flushed, momentarily stunned by the authorityin Ruhi’s voice. The defence crumbled immediately under the power of her eldersister's command.

Abhira (Defeated, sighing): "Fine, Ruhi Di. I'll tellthe driver. But this is going to give Dadisa a Maha Jhatka!"

Ruhi simply smiled, coolly regaining control of thesituation.

Armaan and Abhira returned to the Poddar house, the polishedtiles and opulent furniture seeming to mock their failure. The air in thehouse, usually buzzing with activity, felt heavy with anticipation and quietfury.

Kaveri Poddar was seated in the living room, surrounded byher sons and daughters-in-law. She didn't look up, but her voice, sharp andlaced with annoyance, cut through the silence the moment they walked in.

Kaveri (Without looking up): "You are late. And whereis my granddaughter-in-law, Ruhi, and my great-grandson, Daksh? I trust youbrought them straight here, as is the tradition?"

Armaan sighed, running a hand over his face, unable to maskhis humiliation.

Armaan: "Bade Papa, she refused. She wouldn't evenaccept my handshake. She insisted on going straight to the Goenka Villa. Shesaid she needed a 'secure, stable base of operations' and didn't want thePoddar 'chaos.'"

A collective gasp went around the room.

Vidya Poddar (The Angry Mother/Grandmother): Vidya's angerwas immediate and piercing, driven by a deep sense of insult to her status asDaksh's paternal grandmother.

Vidya (Leaping to her feet, her voice trembling with rage):"Refused? She went to the Goenka Villa? My bahu rejected her own family,her own son's Dadi, for those arrogant outsiders? Daksh is Rohit’s son! Heshould be in this house, sleeping in his father’s room! This is the height ofdisrespect! She has shown us exactly where her loyalties lie, Maa sa !"

Kaveri Poddar (The Annoyed Matriarch): Kaveri remainedseated but her eyes flashed, seeing the event as a direct challenge to thePoddar rutba.

Kaveri: "This is not about loyalty, Vidya; this isabout manners. We are not some small-time family whose invitations can bedismissed. Ruhi may be a Goenka, but she married into this house! She hasinsulted the entire family’s name by running straight to her maternal home,making it look like we are incapable of hosting our own kin!"

Armaan watched the internal chaos explode, his humiliationmorphing into a bitter conviction. Ruhi had fired the opening shot, and theGoenkas had declared war long before the cultural centre doors opened.

The tension melted away the moment the car pulled up to theserene Goenka Villa. The atmosphere inside was one of quiet, genuine warmth, astark contrast to the emotional battlefield of the Poddar house.

Kairav and Muskan were waiting in the foyer. They moved pastthe elegant front hall, instantly shedding their corporate armor to embracetheir kin.

Muskan (Her voice thick with emotion, hugging Ruhi tightly):"Ruhi! My sweet child! We were so worried about that long flight. Welcomehome, beta."

Kairav (His face softening into a rare, genuine smile,hugging Ruhi): "Welcome back, Ruhi beta. Thank you for choosing to comestraight here. It means a great deal."

Daksh immediately ran to Kairav, who laughed and scooped uphis grand-nephew.

Daksh: "Nana! Nani! Mom said we have the best pillowshere and no one shouts the word 'maha'!"

Muskan chuckled, taking Daksh into her own arms.

Muskan: "No shouting, darling. Only elegance and quiet.We're thrilled you're here." She held Ruhi's hands, her expression turningserious for a moment. "It’s good you didn't go to the Poddar house. Weheard the message was loud and clear. They must be furious."

Ruhi (Smiling, the tension finally easing from hershoulders): "They are beyond furious, Mamma. They are scrambling. But I amnot here for tea and pakode at their house; I am here for Kaira. Where is thechief strategist?"

Kairav (Gesturing toward the stairs): "She's upstairs,pretending to review her clinic blueprints. But she’s really just waiting forher strongest ally to arrive. Come, let's get you settled. The entire Goenkafamily is converging, Ruhi. We are relying on your insight. The war is officiallyon."

Kairav put a hand on Ruhi's shoulder, ushering her towardthe stairs. The welcome wasn't just familial; it was the quiet, confidentgreeting of one general to another, establishing their united front against theimpending chaos of the Poddar family.

Ruhi found Kaira seated at a sleek, ergonomic desk, amassive blueprint of her planned Mumbai dermatology clinic spread out beforeher. Kaira was holding a stylus, frowning in deep concentration, but Ruhi knewher better.

Ruhi leaned silently against the doorframe, crossing herarms, and watched Kaira for a moment.

Ruhi (Suddenly, with a theatrical sigh): "Aah, theintense concentration. Is this about the new laser technology, or are you justpretending to look busy so your parents don't realize you’re in a maha panicabout marrying a Poddar?"

Kaira startled, dropping her stylus, then looked up, herface breaking into a huge, genuine grin.

Kaira (Jumping up and rushing to hug Ruhi): "Di! You'rehere! You know, for the Head of Goenka Diamonds Japan, you have terribleboundary management."

Ruhi (Hugging her tightly): "And for a strategicgenius, you have terrible taste in men's families. But listen, I had to comestraight up. My flight was long, but my desire to mock you was stronger."

Ruhi sat on the edge of the desk, swinging one perfect foot.

Ruhi: "Seriously, Kaira? The safe, quiet, youngerbrother? The one who never causes a scene? I thought you’d choose someone whoflew a jet to woo you, not someone who’s practically silent in a room full ofchaos. It’s so... responsible."

Kaira (Rolling her eyes, but smiling): "Oh, you are oneto talk, Mrs. Ruhi Birla Poddar. You married the kind, stable one, Rohit, rightafter the chaotic one, Armaan, tried to wreck your life! I just skipped thedisaster part. And Aaryan is only responsible because he’s terrified of becominghis brother."

Ruhi (Waving a dismissive hand): "Exactly! Which makeshim perfect for us Goenkas. But the way he was talking about you to Muskan Mamiabout your 'professional autonomy' and 'superior stature'I swear, he soundedless like a fiancé and more like your incredibly competent, well-vetted COO (ChiefOperating Officer)."

Kaira laughed, the tension from the morning's strategysession finally dissolving.

Kaira: "That’s the point, Di. I need a COO, not aliability. But tell me, you've seen the chaos up close. What's the real mood?And what about Armaan? Did he look suitably miserable at the airport?"

Ruhi smirked, leaning closer to share the airport gossip,her eyes now glittering with strategic focus. The moment of levity was over;the planning had begun.

Wow.... Ruhi being authoritive to Abhira manipulation is just 😎 👍, she didn't fall for the emotional manipulation is 😍 literally.....

Not dakshu taunting Gabheera on panic ke pakode is 🤣 🤣

Ruhi-kaira discussing like deligates is too good....

Now can I imagine her as Kaira as the slayer to the core "Priyanka bajwa"

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DO2qTJrE3PN/