very nice update..finally premeer r going to b parents😊
Mannat Har Khushi Paane Ki: Episode Discussion Thread - 24
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very nice update..finally premeer r going to b parents😊
Epilogue
Girlish giggles chirped and echoed around the bedroom as a chubby seven month year girl dressed in pink pajamas sat in the middle of the bed playing with her toys. Ginger laid on the end of the bed keeping watch of the precious bundle that belonged to her owners. She knew the moment the tiny being entered the house that she was very important to them. So she did her best to protect and watch over her. Heer smiled at seeing her daughter playing happily by herself while she was putting the laundry away. She was such a good and well behaved baby she thought to herself. She walked over to the side of the bed and softly spoke, "Mama will be done in a few minutes and then we'll play together okay Chahat?" Her daughter lifted her head and nodded. Heer beamed and placed a motherly kiss on her cheek, "You're such a good girl." Chahat giggled back in a happy tone that she had received this sort of affection from her mother.
Ginger suddenly hopped off the bed and pranced towards the bedroom door just as it opened. Prem entered with a huge grin on his face. "How are my girls?" he inquired as he placed his laptop bag on the armchair and walked towards the bed to pick up his daughter. He gave her a kiss on each cheek making her laugh with glee. "Chahat, Papa missed you so much today. You missed Papa?" Chahat clapped her hands and then rubbed them against his cheeks. "No kissy? Give Papa a kissy." She bumped her head against his cheekbone making him chuckle. "I guess that will have to do for now until we get the kisses down." He walked over to his wife and gave her a few sweet kisses in greeting. "How was your day?" He slid his left arm around her waist and rubbed her side.
"Not too bad. It was a normal day at the clinic," Heer replied. She was interrupted from saying anything further by a loud bark. "I think you forgot to greet someone," she giggled.
"Ginger," Prem smiled and gave her a loving pat on the head. "I didn't forget you. You're one of the first girls in my life...the most important..."
"Prem..." Heer warned giving him a slap on the shoulder.
"Wow, you getting jealous over Ginger again?" his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"What happened to the three most important woman rule?" Heer asked.
"I made this rule and I can change it any time I like. And technically speaking Ginger is the second after Ma. You ignored me until after college."
"I was your best friend and you said I was the most important after Ma," Heer fumed. "And you didn't tell me you loved me until after college."
"Okay, okay...I have five very special women in my life. Ma, You, Chahat, your Mom, and Ginger," Prem smirked. Caressing her cheek, "But you are the center of my world. You take care of Ma and the rest of the family...You're the reason I have Chahat...You take care of Ginger...and You take care of me even when you don't want to sometimes."
Heer softly chortled at his last comment. "You are a lot to deal with."
"I am...very much so," Prem nodded in agreement. Chahat let out a gurgle and banged her head against the side of his head making him look at her. "Beta, you're not getting jealous too? Mama is very important. Without her we wouldn't have Chahat."
Chahat looked at her mother and reached out her arms indicating she wanted to be held by her. Heer took her daughter into her arms and patted her back as she comfortably laid her head on her shoulder. "Ma said Chahat had a little diarrhea this morning."
"Oh really?" Prem replied with concern.
"She said she should be okay. But we should keep an eye on her. We are suppose to give her more water. She said she hasn't been too cranky so it probably isn't too serious." Pondering, "I wonder if it was something I ate. I am still pumping milk for her. And I read somewhere if you don't mix baby formula well that it can also upset their stomachs. I've been slowly introducing formula to her as well since I'm going to stop pumping soon."
"I gave her a little apple juice last night," Prem guiltily confused.
"It's too hard to say what might have caused it. We will just have to watch her," Heer stated. "So, Papa are you going to get changed?"
"Why, we going somewhere?"
"Did you forget? Nihaal invited us over for dinner," Heer replied. "He wants us to meet his new girlfriend."
"Oh yes this mysterious new girlfriend he has," Prem laughed. "I don't understand why he's been hiding her. So is it just going to be us? That would be sort of weird. Just his family members there at dinner...that's a lot of pressure to put on a person."
"No, he invited some of his friends and Preet and Meher are invited."
"Oh the newlyweds decided to venture out?" Prem joked.
"Yes, they did. You go get ready. I'll get Chahat ready," Heer instructed. Prem nodded and went to the closet to get a change of clothes. Heer carried Chahat into the nursery to get her ready for tonight's dinner.
****************************************************
Prem held the baby carrier as he and Heer walked up the front steps to Nihaal's house. Heer rang the door bell and waited patiently for the door to be answered. Her eyes widened in surprise when a tall and slender brunette opened the door. "Rachael?" Prem uttered in complete shock.
"Oh my, Prem?" she replied.
"What are you doing here?" he inquired.
"I was invited by Nihaal," she explained with a smile. "It's great seeing you," looking down at the baby carrier, "Is this your daughter? She's so precious. What's her name?"
"Yes, this is my daughter Chahat."
Rachael bent down and started waving at her in greeting. "Hello there Chahat...aren't you the cutest thing...look just like your Daddy." Prem smiled and then turned towards his wife. He noticed the displeased look in her eyes. He shrugged his shoulders displaying his innocence as he did not know what to say in this situation. "Oh hi Heer," Rachael said as she looked back up finally taking notice of her presence. "Love that outfit you have on. You look fabulous...cannot even tell you just had a baby. Let me go inform Nihaal you guys are here." She smiled and then disappeared into the house.
Prem and Heer made their way into the foyer and started to take off their shoes. Prem set the baby carrier on the bench and glanced over at Heer. "What did I do?"
"Nothing..."
"You're upset. I'm not the one who invited her here. I have no idea why she's here. You're not getting jealous are you?" Prem inquired. He sighed when she didn't look up at him and continued to fuss over the baby bag. He placed his fingers underneath her chin and turned her head towards him. "You do realize I married you and I am your husband. In fact, you should be thankful...if she hadn't been so difficult to be with...you and I would never have had that week together..." Heer's eyes narrowed at his last comment making him swallow hard. "Well, you know what I mean..."
"She just annoys me. And she barely registered I was there. Hello, I am the mother of the child she was just greeting---"
"And my beautiful wife," Prem added with smirk.
"God, why is she here?" Heer asked ignoring her husband's comment.
"I don't know..." pausing in contemplation, "you don't think?"
"Oh God no," Heer gasped.
"She is Nihaal's secret girlfriend?" they both said at the same time in shock.
"Well, that could explain why he was hiding her. You know...I use to date her and you also disliked her," Prem explained.
"I'll never forgive my brother if he is dating her," Heer said in anger. "And if he marries her," touching her forehead in distress, "I won't allow it...I just won't...she cannot be a part of this family. That's just too messed up. What if she isn't over you? And she wants to get back with you?"
"What?" Prem replied. He then muttered under his breath, "Watching all those Indian serials while she was pregnant has messed with her mind. I knew there was a reason I didn't want to keep the combo pack."
"What did you say?"
"Nothing," Prem quickly answered. "Sweetheart, you know that I love you. I'm not going anywhere." He was going to say more but stopped as he felt someone's presence coming into the room. They both turned around to greet the individual.
Heer's eyes crinkled as a surprised smile formed on her face. "Veera?"
"Surprise!" she laughed and gave her college friend a tight hug. "Is this Chahat?" exclaiming with delight as she bent downwards to greet the baby. "Heer, she's so adorable...even more so in person. Those pictures don't do justice. She looks just like Prem." Veera turned towards her friend's husband and grinned, "You must be a very proud Papa."
"Yes I am," Prem replied. "What more can I ask for? A beautiful wife and a beautiful daughter."
"I forgot how romantic he can be," Veera teased making Heer blush.
"So what are you doing here?" Heer inquired. She glanced towards the side and saw her brother standing with a grin on his face.
Veera took a step back while Nihaal walked forward and placed his arm around her shoulder. "Meet my girlfriend," he simply stated.
"Really?"
"Really," Veera replied nodding her head.
"When?"
"Oh we bump into each other at a conference in Los Angeles..."
"And the rest is history," Nihaal filled in. He glanced downward at Veera and beamed a smile making her smile in return.
"Why all the secrecy?" Heer asked
"We didn't know how you would react," Nihaal replied.
"As long as you take good care of her...that is all that matters. Don't hurt my friend," Heer warned looking at her brother.
"Wouldn't dream of it," he replied.
"So, if you're dating Veera...what is Rachel doing here?" Heer inquired.
"Oh, Rachel," sighing in a deflated tone, "She is dating my brother Rishabh." Veera saw how her friend's eyes went wide and she nodded her head. "She can be so annoying. I don't know what it is. She tries to be overly nice sometimes that it just comes off as fake. But she's not a bad person. She doesn't do mean things. I don't know. I just can't believe my idiot brother is dating her." She then suddenly looked at Prem and made an apologetic face. "Sorry Prem."
"It doesn't matter to me," he replied. "I'm not dating her anymore."
"So then my sister really saved your life," Nihaal joked.
"Tell you the truth I have no idea why I even dated her," Prem said.
"Boredom," Heer replied.
"Ohh, that was cold," Nihaal laughed.
"Come on," Veera said hooking her arm around Heer's arm, "Help me finish making the salad. I can't be alone in the kitchen with Rachel where there are knives."
Heer chortled, "All right," she looked at her husband, "Prem..."
"Don't worry Sweetheart. Chahat will have fun with her Uncle and Papa," Prem reassured.
Nihaal reached downward and picked up his niece who warmly giggled at seeing his face. "Chahat loves her Mamu. Isn't that right?" Chahat just continued to smile and make happy noises.
****************************************************
Prem patted his daughter's back as he walked towards the living room window. He glanced outside surprised to see how dark it had gotten. He turned his attention back to the dinner party and smiled at the way his wife was enjoying herself with their friends. Most of their time was spent with their daughter, so it was nice to have the chance to come out and interact with adults. Chahat gave a soft burp and laid her head sleepily on her father's shoulder. Prem placed a sweet kiss on her head and gently rubbed her back.
Preet smirked as he came walking up to his cousin. "So, how is the little munchkin?"
"Sleeping...hopefully soon," Prem replied softly.
"Oh, sorry," Preet apologized in a quieter tone. His mouth widened into a grin even more as he watched how gentle he was being with Chahat. "You're loving it aren't you? I'm really happy for you...and Heer Bhabhi."
"I just feel really blessed," Prem replied with an understanding look. "It's an amazing feeling...becoming a father." Preet nodded his head processing his words. "So, what about you and Meher...any plans?"
"What?!"
"Shhh..." Prem warned rocking Chahat gently against him.
"Not you too," Preet whined. "We just got married...what is it with you people?"
Prem chuckled, "I'm only joking. I was playing with you man. Everyone has their time...don't let others tell you differently...you and Meher will know when the time is right for you."
Preet shook his head with a half grin. "You really got me."
"Good, that's for all the times you've played pranks on me," Prem smirked.
"Bhabhi, he's being mean," Preet tattled when Heer came walking up.
"Oh is he now?" she replied eyeing her husband. Prem gave her an innocent look trying to dissuade her from believing Preet. "Don't worry Bhabhi will punish him."
"Thanks," Preet grinned happily and then walked away to join Meher who was busy talking to some friends.
"Is Chahat asleep?" Heer inquired.
"She's almost there," Prem stated as he looked down at his daughter. "Let's take her upstairs." Heer followed him up the stairs and into the guest bedroom. The baby bag was sitting on the dresser while the changing pad was laying on the bed. Heer folded the pad and placed it back into the baby bag. Prem carefully placed his daughter in the middle of the bed. He then grabbed two pillows and placed them on either side of Chahat so they acted like a barrier preventing her from falling off the bed.
"Maybe we should go home," Heer suggested.
"Why? Chahat will be fine. She's asleep now. And you're having a good time hanging out. It's been awhile since we've been out of the house," Prem replied. He placed his hands on her shoulder and grinned, "Go and have fun. You deserve it."
Heer smiled as she received a sweet kiss on her cheek. She leaned inward and hugged him. "Mmm...I can't remember the last time we went out for dinner. When was the last time we went out by ourselves?"
"I don't know," Prem chuckled. He rubbed her back making her snuggled even more against his chest. "I guess we should go out. We could have one of our parents watch Chahat for us. We can get a little adult time...no need to worry about diapers and feeding."
"Leave Chahat?" Heer replied.
"Just for a few hours...enough time for us to have a nice dinner," Prem answered. "It's not like we are going out of town. What's the matter...don't want to have dinner with your husband?"
"No."
"No?" Prem's eyes flexed as a surprised look fall over his face.
"No, just kidding," Heer softly chortled. "I would love to have dinner with you. It's just a little hard to stay away from Chahat. I'm working again and I feel guilty for leaving her with one of our mothers during the day."
"Sweetheart," Prem soothed as he cupped her face. "She knows you love her and will always be there for her. I know I'm just the father but I don't want to miss out on her growing up either. We work so we can give her anything she wants in the future."
"What she needs not wants...I'm not spoiling her. And don't say that Prem...you're her father and a very important person in her life," Heer said. She rested her head on his shoulder and rubbed her hand across his chest. "When's our date?"
"When do you want? Next Saturday night?"
"Sounds great," Heer replied. She gave him a tender kiss and then smiled, "Stay another hour?"
"Don't see why not," Prem said and then walked with her hand in hand out the door.
****************************************************
Prem smiled as he looked around him. Chahat was sitting between him and Heer holding onto a bowl of popcorn. "Papa when are you going to start the movie?" her high pitched voice asked. He grinned and used the remote to turn on the Blu-Ray player. He watched as she giggled in delight at the previews playing. He couldn't believe she was now six years old. His eyes lifted upward and caught his wife's eyes. The amber flecks glimmered as her lips broke out into a grin. Prem moved his right arm up and comfortably rested it around her shoulders. He leaned inward and placed an affectionate kiss on her cheek. He lingered his mouth near her ear and then turned toward her lips. "Papa?" Startled by his daughter's voice he pulled away from Heer, who was silently giggling at his reaction. "Can we go see the Rise of the Guardians tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow is Monday. You have school," Prem answered.
"Uhhh..." Chahat whined. "I wish tomorrow was Sunday again."
Heer and Prem chuckled at her response. "Maybe next weekend," Heer stated as she gingerly caressed her daughter's hair. The thick silky threads slipped through her fingers. Normally Chahat had her hair tied up in two pigtails but she had just taken a shower and her hair was down drying. As part of the deal to watch a movie in the evening, she had to take an early shower and wear her pajamas so once the movie finished she be ready for bed.
"Really Mama?"
"Papa you don't have any objections do you?" Heer asked looking at her husband.
"I don't see why not. Why don't we ask if Nani, Nana, Dadi, and Dada want to come with us?"
"Yay! This will be so much fun!" Chahat replied happily. She then turned her attention towards the big screen TV. "Papa, press play the title menu came...the previews finished playing."
"Haan...haan...my little Princess," Prem said as he playfully pinched and kissed her right cheek.
"Ahhh...Papa, the hair on your face is so rough!" Chahat squealed in protest.
Prem laughed and took a handful of popcorn. He offered it to Heer first before he took some kernels to eat. He wiggled his eyebrows and puckered his lips giving her air kisses making Heer shake her head and signal with her eyes to watch the movie. Prem pouted a little but ultimately turned his attention towards the TV.
****************************************************
Prem carefully laid Chahat down on the bed. She had fallen asleep towards the end of the movie. He had carried her upstairs to her room to tuck her into bed. "Papa..." she mumbled.
"Time to sleep," Prem gently coaxed as he placed a tender kiss on her forehead.
Heer smiled and tucked the covers around her daughter. "Sweet dreams," Heer whispered and placed a kiss on her cheek.
"Mmm...night...Papa...Mama...I love you," Chahat sleepily replied.
"We love you too," Heer said and began walking towards the door.
Prem turned off the light and then closed the door just to the point where the lock rested against the door frame. Since Chahat was still young they didn't feel comfortable closing the door all the way just in case there some emergency. They always left it slightly ajar.
****************************************************
Heer entered the master bedroom and took her pajamas out. Prem entered behind her and closed the door half way. He quickly reached for his cell phone when it started ringing. "Hey," he smirked. "So, how many cups of coffee did you have today?"
"Three today," yawning, "I don't know how you did it," Preet replied.
"How's little Prateek?" Prem asked as he closed the bedroom door so their conversation wouldn't wake up Chahat.
"He's good. But he just won't sleep at night. Every two to four hours he wakes up," yawning again, "I don't know if I can take much more of this. I don't know how much more Meher can take either."
"You'll adjust. It's trying the first couple of months," Prem encouraged. "I remember those nights with Chahat...Heer was waking up every 2 hours feeding and changing diapers. But then eventually she started to sleep through the night and things turned back to normal."
"Normal? Things have changed...I actually have to be an adult now," Preet sighed making Prem chuckle.
"We all have to grow up one day," Prem replied.
"I suppose. Oh, is Heer around? Meher is asking for her."
Prem looked towards the bathroom door as he heard it open. He saw his wife walking out in her pajamas. He grinned, "Yea, she's here," handing her the phone, "Meher wants to talk to you."
Heer picked up the phone and smiled, "Hello? Meher?"
While his wife was busy talking to her best friend on the phone Prem entered the bathroom and got ready for bed. When he came back out he saw Heer sitting in bed still talking on the phone. "No, it's not necessary. I don't think you should do that. It won't be good for you and Preet. I remember when I was debating on doing that and Mom told me not to do it. It sounds like a good idea at the time but later when Prateek gets older it will be harder for him to transition from sleeping in your bedroom to his own bedroom. And as cruel as it may seem the bed has to be off limits."
"I guess you are right," Meher sighed. "I just thought it would be easier. But you are right if we are right there he will not learn patience and won't be able to handle himself if it takes us a few seconds to get to him."
"I think we've talked too long tonight. You need your rest. I'll talk to you later," Heer stated.
"Okay. Thanks. Goodnight," Meher replied.
"Goodnight," Heer smiled and then hung up the phone.
Prem turned off the lights and slide underneath the covers. "So, they were thinking about letting Prateek sleep in the bed with them?"
"Yes," Heer answered as she snuggled into her sleeping position. "I had to explain why it wouldn't be a good idea for them. Prateek will get use to sleeping with them and it will be harder when they have to move him to his own room."
"I remember when we were thinking about doing that for Chahat," Prem said recalling those sleepless nights. "In the end it worked out better with her sleeping down the hall."
"It did. Mom was right."
"Mmm..." Prem murmured in agreement and slowly closed his eyes.
"Jaanu, you know talking to Preet and Meher about Prateek has me thinking...what do you think about having another baby?"
"Huh?" Prem replied in response as his eyes shot wide open. "Another baby?"
"They are so cute and sweet...and adorable," Heer explained. "They smell so fresh..."
"That's the baby powder," Prem stated. "But what about the morning sickness? Trouble sleeping...strange hunger cravings...2am feedings...sleepless nights?"
"We would be giving Chahat a baby sister or brother. You really don't want to have another child?" Heer asked.
Prem could hear the gentle tone of disappointment at his initial reaction to her question. "It's not that," he replied shaking his head. "I just want us to be fully aware of what this would mean...all the wonderful things and the not so wonderful things a baby brings. I'd be happy to become a father again if this is something you really want."
"I want you to want this too," Heer replied sadly. "Obviously, I got my answer."
Prem frowned as he watched his wife turn her back away from him to sleep. "Heer," he called as he moved closer. He placed his hand on her shoulder and gently pulled her back towards him. "I guess I wasn't expressing myself correctly." He looked into her eyes and could see her sorrow. "Sweetheart, forgive me. I really didn't mean what it sounded like. You know I love being a father to Chahat. And if you want to have another child then I'm here to support you in that decision. As the father you know what kind of contribution I give...you're the mother and will have to hold the baby in your womb for 9 months...I get off easy...I just spoil the baby by buying presents and things. Anyways, if you are really serious about this I'm hundred percent behind you...besides, I still owe you a Chota Prem." He watched as his wife's facial expression changed and a tiny smile appear on her lips. He caressed her cheek and smirked, "So, should we get started?"
Heer giggled as their lips met. "I love you Jannu."
"I know," Prem replied. "Now, shhh...no more talking..."
****************************************************
Hazel eyes sparkled as they looked around the park taking in the beautiful scenery before them. The hedges were trimmed and the flowers were in full blown. The assortment of colors was breath taking. Pillows of fluffy white clouds hung in the clear blue sky as a tiny breeze from the south blew through making it the perfect weather for an outing. Her lips turned upward into a grin hearing the chatter and giggles of the Juneja and Maan families.
"Look out Heer Mami!" She turned just in time to see a Frisbee go whizzing by her head. Ketan had an apologetic look on his face as he ran towards her.
"Ketan what did I tell you about the Frisbee?" Kulraj yelled.
"It's okay Kul Di," Heer assured.
"We were just playing a game," Ketan replied.
"Sorry Mami," Tanu apologized. "It was my throw."
"It's fine," Heer said placing her hand on her cheek warmly.
"I told you to put that thing away. We are taking family pictures," Kulraj said.
"What do you expect him to do? The camera guy is taking pictures of Nihaal and Veera with Aunty and Uncle," Preet defended. "It's a good thing Ketan brought the Frisbee otherwise we'd be bored to death." He then smirked, "By the way have you seen your husband? He seems to have disappeared."
"What? Where is he?" Kulraj huffed as she turned around trying to locate him.
"Preet," Heer warned. "Trying to get Kiran Jiju and your Uncle in trouble? You know they are listening to the cricket game."
"Trying to get rid of her so we can play," Preet explained. "She's on everyone's case. She needs to relax and enjoy this day. It's not every day we get the entire family together. I kind of wish my parents and Meher's parents were here...they live so far away."
"You know Ma and Bauji will be having a big wedding anniversary soon. I think the plan is to have this big family reunion in India," Heer said. "But it's at least two years away. We will probably do another round of family portraits."
"Yeah, I guess so. I remember Prem Bhaiya mentioning it once," he replied.
"Preet Chachu are you going to throw the Frisbee?" Heer grinned at Ketan who was standing with his sister eagerly waiting for his uncle to return to the game. "Oh, sorry," he answered and ran off to play with his niece and nephew.
Heer glanced over to the right where some benches were and saw her mother-in-law and Meher playing with Chahat. She was twirling in her pink and white sun dress. "She looks just like you now." Heer turned to see her husband walking towards her. He was holding their six month old son in his arm while Prateek, his nephew held his hand as he waddled next to him.
"I went," Prateek proudly announced to Heer.
"You did?" Heer smiled as she picked him up into her arms.
"I did good?"
"You did very good. Your Mama and Papa will be so proud," Heer stated.
Prateek turned and saw his mother sitting by the benches and began to shift his weight indicating he wanted to be put back down. "Want to see Mama?"
"Yes, Mommy," Prateek nodded.
Heer and Prem walked towards the benches and watched as Prateek waddled his way towards his mother. "Mommy..." he called.
Meher lifted her head and grinned brightly. "Yes, Prateek. Were you a good boy and listened to your Prem Uncle?"
"Haan," Prateek said.
"Mama are we taking more pictures?" Chahat inquired.
"I think so," Heer replied. "We still haven't taken the big family picture yet."
"If the camera man doesn't finish soon Ayaan will be sleeping."
Everyone broke into chuckles at her comment. "So Chahat, how do you like being the older sister?" Gayatri asked.
"I love it. Ayaan is such a cute baby brother," she replied.
"Even when he's crying at night?"
"Haan, even when he is crying at night. I sleep with my door close so I don't hear him. And Mama and Papa are there to take care of him," Chahat answered causing the adults to laugh.
"I think Ayaan is very lucky to have a sister like you."
"I think I've very lucky to have a little brother like him," Chahat replied.
At that moment Ayaan let out a gurgle in response. He looked down and moved his hands towards his sister. "Oh my...what is he doing?" Meher inquired.
Chahat sat on the bench between her grandmother and aunt and beamed a bright smile. "He likes it when I hold him."
"Sit still and remember to support his head," Prem said as he carefully sat Ayaan in his daughter's lap.
"They have a unique bond," Heer explained. "Sometimes he won't stop crying until Chahat holds him."
"I can see that," Meher replied in wonder.
Chahat smiled down at her baby brother who scrunched his nose and grunted out a smile of his own. As everyone was busy staring at Chahat and Ayaan's sibling bond, Prem secretly slipped his arm around his wife's waist. He winked as Heer gave him a warning look. He then gave her a quick kiss on her cheek. "Badmash..."
"Only around you," he whispered into her ear.
Heer raised her eyebrows at him as she saw the mischievous look in his eyes. She was saved from a potentially embarrassing situation when the camera man started speaking requesting everyone to get together to take the big family photo. Lalit, Gayatri, Teji, and Balraaj sat in chairs in the front row. Gayatri held Chahat while Lalit held Prateek. Little Ayaan went into the arms of Teji. Ketan and Tanu stood off the side of Lalit's chair with Kulraj and Kiran behind them. Prem stood next to his sister with Heer standing next to him; followed by Preet and Meher. Nihaal stood next to Meher with Veera at his side. She was placed on the end so her pregnancy could be shown. She was carrying twins much to Nihaal's dismay. But he was still a very proud father to be none the less. The camera man adjusted his lens and took a few shots.
"Okay, we're done," he stated with a smile. "I'm sure you are all relieved. Hopefully, this whole experience hasn't been too painful. Thank you for your patience."
"It was a pleasure Dave," Balraaj stated as he got up from his chair. "Thank you."
"Yes, thank you very much," Lalit said as he shook his hand.
"The pictures should be available in two weeks. I'll give you call when the album is finished," Dave informed.
"Very good," Lalit nodded.
"We're going to the Indian buffet right Bauji?" Kiran asked.
"Yes, Saffron," Lalit replied.
"I'm so hungry," Preet said patting his stomach as he walked with the family through the park heading towards the parking lot.
"I'm so hungry I could eat eight gulab jamun," Ketan said with a dreaming look as he rubbed his stomach thinking about the food at the buffet.
"It's scary how much you act like each other sometimes," Kulraj sighed.
"Mom, can we go play mini golf later?" Tanu asked.
"Oh, that sounds fun Mama," Chahat pleaded with Heer.
Kulraj looked over at her sister-in-law and arched her eyebrows. "I don't see why not," Heer replied. "Would it be all right? I'll ask Prem to stop by the house and pick her up later."
"Mama, you're not coming?" Chahat asked sadly.
"We have to take Ayaan home. He has to rest," Heer explained.
"I can look after him," Gayatri offered. "You can go with the kids and have fun."
"No Ma, I'm a bit tired myself," Heer confessed. "I'll send Prem."
"I won't go then," Chahat stated.
"No, you will go," Prem interjected. "And whoever hits the first hole in one will win a very large Cadbury chocolate bar."
"Chocolate?!" Ketan, Tanu, and Chahat exclaimed.
"Haan, chocolate," Prem smiled.
"Does this contest include adults?" Preet inquired making everyone laugh. "What? What did I say?"
Meher just sighed shaking her head at her husband. "He never changes."
"They never really do," Veera teased.
"I know what you mean," Heer whispered causing the sister-in-law friends to giggle.
"They're talking about us again," Nihaal sighed.
"Just don't get them mad," Prem quickly stated.
"Right, or we're all going to sleep on the couch," Preet replied.
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Prem grinned as he stealthy opened the bedroom door. He saw his wife napping peacefully on his old bed. His mother had insisted that she just rest at the house as she could help watch Ayaan allowing her to take proper rest. Prem tip-toed inside and carefully closed the door. He smiled at the way she was sleeping. He knew she had been extremely tired the last few days and she wasn't getting the rest that she needed. He gingerly laid down next to her and turned to his side to watch her sleep. He smirked recalling how she had berated him the first time she had caught him staring at her while she was sleeping. It was on their wedding night. He sighed, "It's been almost 10 years...10 beautiful years Heer."
"Mmm?" she mumbled as she began to stir from her sleep.
Prem caressed her cheek with a grin, "Morning Sweetheart."
Heer opened her eyes and then touched the side of her mouth. "I was drooling?"
"Snoring a little too," Prem chuckled.
"You watched me again?"
"You're the most angelic angel when you sleep," Prem complimented.
"Not this time...ugh," touching her mouth. "Don't look."
"We've been married how long?" Prem laughed. "I'll get you a damp towel." He got up from the bed and went into the bathroom. A few minutes later he came back with a damp face towel. "Here you go my lady," he smirked as he gently wiped the side of her mouth.
"Prem, stop...I'll do it," Heer replied.
"No," he stated clicking his tongue at her as he moved his hand to the side so she couldn't touch the towel. "Let your loving husband do this for you."
"Prem..."
"What is there to be embarrassed about? You've heard me snore. You've seen me drool. You've heard me burp and fart."
"Eww...Prem!"
"What? I'm just saying...we've seen a lot of each other and we're still married. If I was this sensitive then I would have been long gone a long time ago." He placed the towel on the night stand and then caressed her cheek.
"Prem..." Heer shyly smiled as their noses touched.
"Shhh..." he whispered and then sealed his lips with hers. Heer relaxed into the bed and felt the comfortable weight of her husband laying on top of her.
"So, this was your ultimate goal?" Heer chortled when the kissing naturally broke.
"Maybe..."
Her eyebrows lifted in sudden concern, "Wait, if you are here then that means everyone is back from mini golf. How long have I been sleeping?"
Prem pushed her back down, "Stay calm. You needed that nap. You've been really tired lately. Everything is okay. The kids are downstairs watching a movie with Ma and Bauji. And all the adults are resting."
"I need to go down and help with dinner," Heer replied.
"We had a buffet for lunch. Everyone is pretty stuffed. Dinner will probably be something light. Don't worry about it," Prem soothed. "Let's take a nap together."
"I don't think I can sleep anymore," Heer replied.
"Then?" Prem inquired with a naughty smirk as he leaned inward.
"I want to get up," Heer said just as his lips were about to touch hers. Prem pouted with annoyance that she had interrupted him. "Hahahehehe...you're so cute when you get like that," pinching his cheek.
Prem slumped over onto his back and sighed. "I guess its nap time then." Heer rolled over and lovingly ran her hand over his thick hair. Prem just smiled enjoying their time alone together. It was rare and far and few now that they had a second child.
"Your hair is still nice and thick," Heer mused as she let her fingers flow through. "No signs of gray."
"Were you expecting me to gray really early?" Prem chuckled.
"No, actually I thought you would lose all your hair by now," Heer laughed.
"Yea, Bauji...who knows it could still happen," Prem sighed with worry.
"And I'll still love you...bald head and all," Heer replied as she kissed his forehead.
"You think I should shave my head then? Or maybe cut it really short?"
"Shave it short," Heer said. "Then I can do this!" rubbing her hands to and fro as if he had already had it cut. She giggled as his hair puffed and became all messy.
"Aaahhh..." Prem protested. "Sweetheart...my hair..." Heer stopped but continued to give a playful smile. "Great, my hair is a mess."
"Just tell everyone it's bed head." She gave him a sweet kiss to tame his mood.
"Mmm...would you give me kisses on my head?" Prem asked making her laugh.
"Of course...why wouldn't I?" Prem ran his fingers through his wife's silky locks and let his eyes roam along her face taking in her beautiful complexion. "One day these will all turn gray."
"And I'll still love running my fingers through them," Prem replied before he gave her a few short kisses. "Can you believe it's been almost 10 years?"
"Our anniversary is coming up soon," Heer grinned.
"I have to remember to buy a gift and book a hotel room," Prem pondered out loud. "Flowers? New surround sound system? Jewelry?" He smirked as he watched his wife's expressions change at each correct and incorrect suggest he made, "That dress you loved? Nah, you wanted a new flat screen TV...or was it that Michael Kors purse? No, no, no...I remember now you wanted the BMW Z4 sDrive28i in Deep Sea Blue Metallic."
"Are you trying to give me hints on what I should get you?" Heer replied. "I can tell you now that you will not be getting that BMW."
"So there's hope for the new Bose surround sound system?"
"In your dreams Mr. Juneja," Heer mocked.
Prem wrapped his arm around her waist and pushed her closer to him, "Aaa, but some of my dreams have come true," giving a naughty grin.
Their conversation was soon interrupted by a knock on the door. "Prem Bhaiya..."
"Why did Preet have to interrupt now?" Prem muttered making Heer chortle. She immediately stopped when he looked at her. He was annoyed. Heer closed her mouth and tried her best to suppress her laughter.
There was another loud knock making him clench his jaw in aggravation. "Be nice Prem."
"Why does this always happen? I can't spend any time with my wife alone? Is it too much to ask for?" Prem grumbled.
"Be nice.."
Prem opened the door and give a hard glare at his cousin. "Um, your mother wanted to tell you and Bhabhi that they are thinking about ordering pizza for dinner later. Everyone is downstairs and they are getting ready to watch Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. You'll join yes?"
"Of course," Heer replied before her husband could say anything. "We'll be down in a few minutes."
"Okay," Preet nodded and walked away.
Prem turned around with a frown. Heer cupped his face, "Let's go down. Everyone is waiting for us." He watched as her lips turned into smile. It immediately rid him of his sour mood. His eyes followed her figure as she walked through the open bedroom door towards the hallway. He rushed up behind and hugged her snuggling his head into the crook of her neck making her giggle. "Feeling better Mr. Grumpy?"
"Mmm...yes. You're smile does wonders for me. Love you," Prem whispered as he kissed her earlobe.
"Love you too," Heer replied as she turned and hooked her arm around his so they could walk down the stairs together.
Once downstairs they grinned at seeing the family commotion as everyone got ready to watch a movie. Tanu stood by the Blu-Ray player waiting to place the disc inside. "Can we start the movie?"
"Just a minute not everyone is here," Kiran replied.
"I have the popcorn!" Ketan yelled as he raced out of the kitchen.
"Popcorn?" Kulraj sighed. "We just ate."
"Popcorn?!" Preet exclaimed in delight. He motioned for Ketan to come and bring him the bowl.
"Don't eat the whole thing," Meher commanded.
"Don't worry I have another bowl," Ketan stated and rushed back to the kitchen to get the other bowl.
"Papa!" Chahat greeted as she slid off the couch and ran towards him. She grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the couch. "Sit down!" Prem chuckled as he led by his daughter. "You sit here on the side." Chahat then turned towards her mother and grabbed her hand, "You sit next to Papa."
"Where is Chahat going to sit?" Lalit inquired. He was sitting with his wife on loveseat positioned on the right side of the room.
"I'm not sitting."
"You're not?" Lalit replied with great curiosity.
"Someone has to watch Ayaan and Prateek," Chahat explained. "Papa and Mama watch babies all the time. They should watch the movie today. I'll play with Ayaan and Prateek." The adults in the room looked at the seven year old in awe. Chahat walked over to the play pen where Ayaan and Prateek were laying about playing with their toys and sat down to play with them.
"Are you sure Beta?" Gayatri coaxed.
"I'll be okay Dadi. Mama and Papa should enjoy. They don't go out very much. Papa, put your arm around Mama."
Heer's eyes widen at her daughter's words. She turned giving her husband a look when he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "My daughter told me to do this. I'm just following orders."
"This is Papa and Mama's movie date." Everyone laughed at what she was saying.
"Is this a hint that we need to babysit so you two can go out?" Gayatri teased.
"I guess next Friday night?" Lalit suggested.
"Ma...Bauji...we never told her..."
Gayatri held her hand up, "I know. We're just joking Heer."
"But our offer still stands," Lalit said.
"How come we don't get that offer?" Preet whined.
"Preet..." Meher said giving him a look of warning.
"Why not," Gayatri agreed. "We'll watch both."
"Ma, that's too much," Prem replied.
"Not with Chahat around. Look..." pointing to the play pen, "We will do just fine."
"It's settled then," Lalit confirmed.
"Dad, can I put the movie in?" Tanu asked again. "Everyone is here."
"Sure, okay..." Kiran nodded, "Put the movie in." He then sat down next to Kulraj on the other loveseat and put his arm around her shoulder.
"What are you doing?" Kulraj whispered.
"Has it been that long that you don't remember?" Kiran replied.
"Ehhh, Mom...Dad...what are you doing?" Ketan asked with disgust.
"Just watch the movie," Tanu order.
"Ketan, please take the bowl of popcorn away from him," Meher requested.
"No, I'm eating it," Preet replied defensively.
"How much? At the rate you're eating you won't have any room left for dinner."
"Don't worry. I'll make room," Preet smiled and placed his arm around Meher in an attempt to pacify her.
"What you too?" Ketan groaned.
"You'll love it later, trust me," he replied.
Eventually everyone settled down and started focusing their attention on the large flat screen TV. Heer gently held Prem's hand while they watched the movie. She caught herself reminiscing all the moments in their lives they had spent together. She was so thankful that he didn't give up on their relationship even when times were tough. She was thankful that he had been brash enough to purpose to her at her own wedding. If he hadn't she wouldn't be enjoying this moment with him or their family. She couldn't picture herself being with anyone but them. She loved and cared for each one of them so much. Prem caught her eye and gestured with his eyebrows if everything was all right. She smiled and gestured back with her eyes that everything was okay and squeezed his hand affectionately. Prem just smiled and returned his attention to the TV screen.
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The End
Thank you all for reading 😃