This is a continuation to one of my old stories: RaYa Confrontation: https://www.indiaforums.com/forum/topic/4996448
- Supressed Feelings -
After the veneration, everyone returns to Kapoor Mansion....Ram instructs Gopal to shift Peehu and Priya's belongings to KM from Priya's flat...as soon as they reach KM, a video plays in the mega monitor installed at the frontal gate....flashing Priya's childhood images...Priya being surprise at such a gesture...glances at Ram...who pretends to be busy playing with Peehu and Khush....
Before entering the house, KK welcomes RaYa doing the aarti and puts 'tilak' on their foreheads...Dadi blesses them wholeheartedly while others get busy preparing for the birthday party...seeing everybody occupied, Ram grabs the chance to bring Priya to their Green Room...
Priya strolls around the room...touching the edges of the walls...attempts to feel each of the objects kept there...suddenly...an empty feeling grasps her mind...feels like six long years have been snatched from their life, which would never come back! She keeps staring at the small mirror kept in the bed side table...from there, she noticed that Ram was observing her with tearful eyes...both strived to hold their tears within....
The moment they step forward to share a word, Peehu jumps into Ram's lap!
Peehu: Papa, what else will we gift to Mumma?
Ram: whatever your Mom wants!
Peehu: sacchi?
Ram: mucchi!
Priya squints back at them....giving a look to Ram which visibly meant that she is going to remember this promise!
***
Throughout the day...Ram made several attempts to spend some time alone with Priya, which went in vain as everyone else was too overwhelmed to have Priya with them after such a long time! It quite irritated Ram that they were asking her suggestions on matters such as how they should tie their hair or which outfit they should wear for the lunch! Damn!
In the lunch table –
Ram: Rockstar, I'm sure you're going to love this oven baked potatoes...saying this...he proceeds to put some on Peehu's plate....
Peehu objects : offooo Papa! Peehu can't have potatoes for lunch as Peehu already had aloo parathas for breakfast! Peehu promised Mumma that she'll have aloooo only once in a day! She giggles and then becomes busy chatting with Khush! Ram feeling a little dejected, start munching on the potatoes! Priya silently observing the scenario, heaves out a sigh!
Once the lunch finishes, everyone gathers to chit chat with one another....Natasha didn't forget to invite Kaddy too...for the celebration! Priya seems to be busy with Shipra...making a bun with her curls....Ram hears Peehu and Khush discussing over some gifts for Priya....he listens to them eagerly to know their plans...
Khush: Peehu, did you bought any gift for Priya Angel?
Peehu: No Khush, I couldn't! I didn't have the money nah! She flips her lips in hopelessness! Peehu continues: I toh always ask for money from Mumma....now, if I request for money from her, she'll get to know nah!
Ram happily barges in...just to let her little princess know that Papa is always there for her!
Khush: why don't you ask Papa? He always gives me money!
Peehu: but, I toh never did ask for anything from Papa!
A shed of tear appears in the corner of Ram's eyes even before he could realize that! Again, it reminded him that he was away from his family for six damn years! There could be so much that he has missed! A feeling of loneliness comes over him!
***
In the afternoon, the entire family gathers in the lawn to have the birthday girl to cut the cake....as soon as Soumya brings the cake in...Peehu and Khush rush over there to blow the candles....Priya cuts the cake while others keeps clapping...she cuts out a small piece to feed Peehu...the moment she proceeds to feed Ram, Kaddy makes an impetuous move...and puts a pinch of cake into Priya's mouth! This has been their ordinary picture for the past five years...she celebrated her past birthdays with Kaddy and Peehu only! Priya notices Ram swallowing down the lump down his throat!
***
When everyone else enjoys gossiping with each other, Priya keeps waiting in their room...where's Ram yaar...we need to talk! She peeps out from the window...just to feel the fresh breeze! She peers out of the window...Ram's back view catches her attention....she notices Ram has rested his head upon Soumya's shoulder....these two seem inseparable...unknowingly, she exhales a deeply....how many days have passed without them being together...who knows, how Ram has passed those years...she at least had Peehu with her...Ram had nobody....maybe Soumya supported him throughout the hard time....so today, Ram chose to share his mind with her....but, somewhere...she felt empty...thinking that maybe she no longer holds that place in Ram's life that she used to have six years back...
******
Precap:
"Hum pyar karte hai apne liye,
kyun ki hum mein koi achcha lagta hai ...
lekin milta tab hai,
jab yeh jaan le ki
hum mein joh achcha lagta hai ...
usko kya accha lagta hai"
Ram enters the room....they both stare at each other....blankly....Priya moves a little from her place on the bed...Ram sits down near her....they remain silent for few moments...
Few minutes later...Krishna Ji knocks at the door...both startle and get up from the bed...
KK: Ram & Priya...what I was thinking is that why don't you both spend the rest of the day with each other?
RaYa look at each other....with a querying look...
Soumya and Natasha arranged for your tickets...Ram...why don't you take Priya to your Pune farmhouse?
Ram hesitates for a while...Maa...to Pune? So suddenly?
Priya joins him protesting....ha Maa...moreover, Peehu has school tomorrow!
KK: Priya...beta...we're here na! Just don't worry!
RaYa prefer not to argue anymore...as they also wanted to have some quiet time...together...!
***
On the flight, Ram remained considerably silent...though Priya tried to initiate a conversation, he just responded shortly! After a while, Priya too seemed a little lost....gaping at the smogy sky!
The moment they reach the house, Priya amazes at the view of the place....it was so calm and peaceful...she could smell the fresh buds...of apples! She just awed staring at so many different types of apple trees! The apple tree named 'Pacific Rose' was the most beautiful one out of them all! She registered that Ram was observing her from a far! She glances at him...with a smile full of gratitude! Ram gently acknowledges that by blinking his eyes!
Ram escorts her inside the house....Ram gets freshen up....a while later, Priya also changes into a white salwar suit...after coming back from the changing room...he finds Ram nowhere near...she strolls across the garden...reading the nameplate attached to each of the trees ....she wanted to pick one from the 'Pink Pearl' tree...then, thought not to! As those were hanging so beautifully on the tree!
After wandering around for a while, she finds Ram....sitting on the ground...folding his knees to his chest....gazing at the water flowing down the small blue-water lake...she also sits beside him...he startles a little seeing her near...she gives a comforting smile!
Priya: thinking something?
Ram nods his head in denial....
Priya (In an attempt to start a convo): I never knew about this place! Soumya, Neha, Natasha...no one ever told me!
Ram: no one knows much about this! They just know that I've a farmhouse in Pune!
Priya: So, am I the first one visiting here? Her eyes beam in happiness!
Ram: probably the last one too!
Priya giggle candidly...Ram looks at her intently....keeps staring at her innocent face...Priya too gapes at him...she notices that Ram is holding his thoughts within...
She bites her lips...in apprehension...Raaam....!
Priya fills the gap in between them going closer....and surrenders her head on his neck...
Ram takes her hands into his..and folds his fist!
They remained entwined....for quite a long time....
After a while, Priya inquires...Ram, these apples....?
Ram: all these get distributed among local people...
Priya wheezes out a little...
She looks into his eyes...he must have been so lonely all these years...without her...how would anyone feel losing their loved ones...especially when he thought that he was the reason behind her death? She feels so suffocating inside...! She felt that somewhere she has wronged him! He deserved better...much better...! How could she think that he could have moved on without her?
Ram (seeing her engrossed into a deep thought): hey! Whatever gone is gone....it can't be undone!
Priya: still, Ram...it hurts! She breaks down into his chest....he embraces her tightly....being so near her breath makes him feel even more emotional...he cries his heart out! Both mourn for a while...
Sometime later, She raises her face...wiping her nose, she continues....Ram...you know? I called you...from the Dubai hospital....when I got to know that I'm expecting Peehu! But, Ram....she snuffles heavily...you...I heard you...complimenting someone about her earrings! I.... I thought that you're trying to cope with the situation...so, I thought I won't come your way! I just don't know what stupidity came over me...she twists her lips...sniveling out!
Ram feels so shattered inside....recalling the restaurant scene...when he had a conversation with a lady...about Priya's earrings! How Priya must have felt overhearing that chat...especially when she called him to share the news of her pregnancy! All these days...he never tried to know how she gave birth to Peehu....how she raised her...didn't she deserve a better life? He too feels guilty acknowledging that his anger overpowered his love for her...which made him so blind that he kept ignoring his emotions!
He cups her face in his palms...I missed you Priya...I missed US! Priya just silently acknowledges his remarks! He sobs out badly enfolding her petite frame into his chest...a drop of his tear drops upon her neck...she too wets his shirt weeping out...hearing her sobs, he tries to comfort her patting her back....he moves his hand across her curls...and, then inbreaths its fragrance! It seems so familiar...so owned...so intrinsic! She too absorbs his scent....it felt so inherent... so immanent! He brushes his lips against her's...to immerse into her essence that was so close his heart ...she runs her fingers upon his face...to feel him...experience him...!
Precap:
"Jaise pyar ko paane ke liye junoon zaroori hota hai ...
pyar ko nibhane ke liye bhi ek junoon zaroori hota hai"
- Recreating the memories -
He caresses her sobbing face....she too strokes his frowns to lessen his agony....he fondles her face front....caressing out her tears....she endearing his lips with hers, draws him closer....deepening the smooch, he enfolds her into his closest grip...cuddling her in his embrace...he brushes his lips throughout her neckline...while smooching her lower back, he frees herself from the grasp of her vest....following the rhythm...she unbuttons his outfit...cuddling his torso....
They lie down underneath the tree 'Smitten'....gazing the stars...she rests her head upon his chest...there are certain feelings in life...that never change...she remarks...registering her remark...he leans forward to validate her thoughts...
Glazed with the moonlight, the nature witnesses the two floral buds rejoicing through a 'sacred worship'...
****
- RaYa are settled well in their 'ordinary' life -
Ram packing Peehu's school bag, strokes his hands on her drawings...she draws so well...! He looks at the wall hanging Peehu's pictures...Priya, in a blue gown... holding her first time...is his favorite! He never held a little human being that much protective! When he was engrossed into his thoughts, Priya enters the room...Ram, why did you give Peehu extra pocket money this week? Raaam...she jerks him a little...where are you lost? Huh? Aah, sorry! Why do you pamper her so much yaar..? I pamper her...I pamper her? Look at the way you've held her in you lap....he points toward their picture...she smiles!
At night:
Ram's looking at his Ipad while Priya's resting her head on her shoulder...Ram scrolling down the screen, shows a picture to Priya with excitement, Priya, I was thinking, how about going for a mini vacation? That would be a nice break both for Peehu and Khush. We didn't gift them anything after their mid-term result got publish! What do you say?
Priya making an adorable face...says, you just want to gift your kids...not their Mom or Massi!
Ram: Hawww....that's rude!
Priya: aur nai toh kya! You were telling Peehu that Mumma will get anything she wants...and, then you never gifted me anything for my birthday!
Ram: Haww...I gifted you the wedding chain no?
Priya: that's not a gift Ram, that's already mine!
Ram: hahaha! So, what does madam want?
Priya: (hesitating a little): Raam, what about having a child again?
Ram: (raising his eyebrows): what?!? Are you mad? At this age?
Priya: (squinting her eyes) So, what do you want to say? You're too old to have another child?
Ram: yah! Very funny!
But, Priya, It's not funny! What if anything goes wrong?
Priya: what'll go wrong, Ram? Trust me, I'll remain careful!
Ram: you're not getting it, Priya! I had lost you for once, I can't lose you again! His tone becomes a little heavy layered with several set of emotions!
Priya (caressing his arm): I know, Ram! But, just think about it! Peehu can have her little sibling! She misses Khush so much! Having a baby sister or brother will make her more empathic and responsible!
Ram: whatever it is, I won't let you risk your life and that's final!
Priya: I can understand Ram! She cups his face into her palms, look at me, Ram! Don't you want another child?
Ram remains silent for a while, and then speaks up with a considerable amount of intensity, I would like to have too many children to count! But, that's not possible, right? it's too late, Priya! I don't want you to deal with those complexities at this stage! That's it!
Priya: Give it a thought at least! For me? She pledges!
Ram (with a substantial amount of fear in his eyes): We'll think about it! Just give me some time to plan!
Priya: Plan? You'll plan before romancing your wife?
Ram: it's not funny yaar! It's a life changing decision Priya! I think, before reaching to any conclusion, we should get your check-ups done...if there's any complications....He was about to complete the line...when she captures his lips with her one's...Ram startles at such a sudden act...!
***
Six months later:
Priya and Peehu waiting for Ram...in a cafe...
Peehu: Mumma, relax! Papa will be here soon!
Priya: chup! Papa ki chamchi!
Peehu giggles...Ram joins in their laughter...!
Ram: Rockstar, what would you have?
Peehu: Mud cakes!
Ram: Aah! Me too!
Priya: me three!
Ram and Peehu look at each other!
Ram: are you sure, Priya? saying this, he hi-fives Peehu!
***
Both Priya and Peehu dig into their cakes....and, gulp down a spoonful of cake! Both licking their lips, concentrate on grabbing another bite! Ram taking a piece of napkin, wipes out Priya's chin!
Suddenly, both Priya and Peehu notice that Ram's not having his cake!
Priya: Ram, you're not having your cake?
Ram: I think I'm done! Why don't try their Espresso? It's really good Priya!
Priya protests, shrinking her nose, No, please!
Peehu: Mumma, now, where will we go? To watch a movie?
Priya: Next week na, baby! You've exams this week!
Peehu (making faces): okay Mumma! But, we can visit the Kulfi-joint, no? Please.. Mumma! Please!
Priya: okay, Okay! Drama queen!
At the Kulfi joint:
While three of them enjoying Kulfis together, Peehu inquires: what's cooking there in that Van, Mom?
Priya: Delicious food items that your Papa doesn't like! Saying this, she bursts out laughing!
Ram: aah! Madam, I'm having roadside Kulfi...you see!
Priya: Ram, let's have Dahi-puri nah! They sell really good ones! And, hygienic too! She keep staring at him intently!
Ram: no way! You just had Cakes and Kulfi! It may create indigestion!
Priya: kya yaar! Don't be so calculative!
Priya tries to convince him by giving a pledging look...Ram rolls his eyes...accha baba, you can have a little! Just a little!
***
Reaching home, Ram settles Peehu on her bed as she fell asleep in the car. Ram going into his room, finds Priya too laying asleep on their bed...Ram chuckles! Like mother, like daughter! Saying this, he pulls her sandals off her feet and tucks her flowing hair behind her ears...she stirs a little and then, drowses off!
Next morning, RaYa woke up late...so do Peehu...Soumya sprints around Peehu with a plate of omelet...Chachi...Peehu will hide....if you can find Peehu, only then she'll finish the breakfast! Saying this, she runs away from there...and jumps into Priya's lap...who's just got up!
Peehu: Mumma...good morning!
Priya: Good morning baby!
Peehu kisses her cheeks...the smell of egg yolk coming from her mouth bothers Priya a little!
Priya (Kissing her back): Peehu baby, you should be finishing your breakfast first, clean your mouth and then run around, no?
Peehu (giggling): holds her ears.. sorry Mumma!
Priya: it's okay, baby! Let's go! We'll eat together!
In the breakfast table, Priya consciously attempts to finish her bowl of oats to subside the nauseated feeling...while Ram and Rishabh discuss over some business deals. Hearing them mentioning today's date, catches her attention...she finishes her bowl of quaker fast and leaves the table...
A little later, Ram enters the room...Priya rushed to him...Raam...ooo...
Ram: yeah, I remember, I need to drop Peehu to her school and no chocolate treat on the way! I will keep that in mind! Saying this, he pulls her into a side hug and leaves for the office!
Priya being a little irritated, goes to the restroom again!
***
Priya spends a little restless time...she looked for Soumya who has gone to visit a friend....hoping that Ram will be free during lunch hour, she even messaged Ram once...for which he replied an hour later..."Busy, anything urgent?" She felt like smacking the phone off the floor...!
Priya thinks to message Neha...but, suddenly stops in the middle...Mr. Kapoor needs to know first, before anybody else! I won't repeat the mistakes that I had done six years back!
She tries to do 'Pranayama' to calm herself down...and closes her eyes...a moment later, she open her eyes as she feels that Ram has just entered the room hastily...Priya flashing a happy smile goes near him...so early, today? He clutches her with one hand...and answers flashing a wide grin, Priya....today, I am very very very happy! Priya gets surprise, kamal hai! She looks up to him with a confusing look...Ram answers cheerfully, Priya, remember, how badly we wanted to sponsor a maternity care ward in the Dubai hospital where Peehu was born? Finally, the paperwork is done! I'm too excited! Where's my Rockstar? I want her to know this as well! Saying this, he left the room as hurriedly as he entered! Priya frowns her eyebrows in absolute frustration!
***
Evening (RaYa's bedroom)
Priya keeps flipping the pages of a magazine indifferently while Ram seems to be glued to his laptop...Priya observes Ram scrutinizing few pictures of some medical cabins...Priya sighs...inhe bas dusro ki Biwiyon ki padi hai...asa nai ki khud ki Biwi se bhi puch le kuch! Ram looks up to her...and, she looks away! Ram turning the laptop off...goes near...Priya....? She replies acting moody...hmm? I forgot! You texted me? What's the matter? You seem to be quiet since the morning...So, you noticed? How couldn't I? She makes a face...Ram chuckles a little! Aah...! Peehu se tumne bhi shikh li? Mooh fulana? Huh? Peehu learnt from her mother, get it right, okay? Okay, baba, okay! He gently pulls her cheeks and then, rests his chin upon her bosom...she tossed her chest off him whimpering a little...Ram gets aback by her sudden move...what happened Priya? are you okay? Did It hurt you? He remains clueless! Priya biting her lips...hugs him abruptly....and, breaks into tears! Priyaaa...he calls out...caressing her hair...what happened? She sobs for a while...then, raises her head from his chest...he keeps looking at her with an anxious face...Ram...Raaam....I think, I think I am pregnant!
Ram feels like his eyes get moistened within a second...he grins a little...and, then, Priya notices that his smile soon vanishes away...he asks freaking out, why are you crying? Are you alright? Are you feeling unwell? Priya pouts a little...I don't know yaar! I just got a little carried away! Ram seems considerably silent...Priya reading his mind...goes near him, come on yaar! Pregnant mein hu, you're swinging your mood! Moreover, I am not sure! I mean I just have a feeling that I am expecting, that's all! Sometimes, testing kits show false results! Ram murmurs, do you think Priya, have we taken the right decision? Of course, we did! Aur, wase bhi, aab sochne ka kya fayda...aab toh train nikal gayi nah, she winks a little...just to cheer him up! He heaves out a sigh and pulls her into an embrace!
Four weeks later:
Ram rouses up from sleep hearing a distinct sound... following which Ram rushes to the washbasin...he finds Priya throwing up in the washstand....he gently massages her back, and then rinses water on her face! After cleaning the washtub, he brings Priya back in the bed...and settles her back pillows... then, offers her a glass of water from the bottle kept on the side table... You feeling okay, now? She nods her head in affirmation...this is the third time since the last evening Priya....I told you nah...to wake me up if you feel unwell...you just don't want to listen to me! she chortles a little...Raam! It happens! There's nothing to worry about! I'm fine, trust me! She rolls a little to reach him and drifts off resting her head into his heart!
He felt a little restless...recalling the events of past few days...lately, Priya has been extremely fatigue and excessively nauseated! Struggling with thousands of dreadful thoughts, he too finally dozes off!
Afternoon (the night before Karva Chauth)
All the Kapoors, Sharmas and Shergils gather together to enjoy the evening before the Karva Chauth...while Soumya, Natasha, Ridhima and Peehu get busy selecting some Mehndi designs...Neha peeps into RaYa's room...Priya who was settling her dupatta...bites her tongue...sorry yaar! I got late as I just fell asleep!
Neha: it's okay, Priya! you're allowed to take a little bit of extra time! But, where's your husband? He too is taking time? Ram who was coming back from the changing room waves at her!
Looking at the mirror, Neha slightly pinches Priya's cheek...Priya...I guess you've started growing a little early, no? I must say that the extra carb is looking good on you! Soumya and Natasha barge into their conversation...aah! You two are here? We're looking for you in the entire house! Now, let's go!
While putting mehndi on Priya's hand...Neha says...Priya, I think you should avoid fasting...It's just 8 weeks yaar...I mean, why to take any risk! Wase bhi, Fatty tumhari fast karlegi! Priya blinks her eyelashes in confusion...Neha continues...Fatty didn't tell you? He's been fasting for the last six years on the day of Karva Chauth....just to hold onto your beliefs....Priya silently notes it down!
At night, while taking off her earnings, she playfully asks...Ram...I was thinking to fast for tomorrow....Ram replies almost instantly...NO! Raam...this day comes only once in a year...ha..toh? This year, I will keep the fast of your share....Priya pretends...you'll be fasting? Are you kidding me Ram? Why? Why can't I keep fast? I've years of experience...Mrs. Kapoor! Then, he realizes what he has blurt out! She looks into his eyes...intently...and, then rests her chin on his arm!
***
After freshening up, Priya surrenders to the bed..I'm so tired yaar! Ram following her word... says...Priya....I think we should visit your gynecologist once...you seem to be too exhausted now a days! It's normal...Ram! It's not Priya...accha? Badi experience hai apko...she chuckles...of course...I've seen Neha from so close...that's too three times! Every pregnancy is different Ram...so is every expecting mother...I also don't feel the same as I did during Peehu's time....Ram cuts her off...that's why I am telling Priya...Let's consult your doctor...before it's too late! Accha..baba...we'll...next week! Ram being impatient...why next week, Priya? why not tomorrow? If there's actually an issue...it's always better to figure it out early...god forbids...if anything goes wrong...we can at least abor...t...Ram stops in the middle...hearing this, Priya bursts out in anger...she yells in a louder tone...abort what Ram...? Why did you stop? Just say it...that you don't want this child! You actually never wanted this child! Saying this, she storms out of the bed...leaveing the room! Ram being at a loss, wipes out his sweaty forehead and then, howls for a while...covering his mouth with his left palm!
****
At midnight:
Ram wakes up as the alarm clock rings...rubbing his eyes...he heads toward the dinning area...midway, he peeps into Peehu's room...she's asleep...Priya's seen nowhere in the bed...he looks for Priya in the kitchen...she's found preparing a plate...seeing Ram...she says with a straight face...Maa has asked me to give my 'Shagun' to you...Ram barely smiles...seeing no reaction from Priya...he says...you can go and rest...I'll eat alone! she remains silent....few moments later, Soumya and Krishna Ji join them in the dining table....finding RaYa in absolute silence...they exchange a look with one another...they finish their food silently...as Krishna Ji and Soumya were there....Priya goes back to her room instead of Peehu's room...
***
She walks into the balcony...Ram follows her....both stand still for a while...then, Ram leans his head on her shoulder...she looks into his eyes...those deep dark shaded eyes seem to be telling it's own story...she too adjoins her head with his one...they remained entwined for a while...
They spend few moments in comfortable tranquility....then, Ram breaks the silence...Priya...I know...why you want this child so badly...to give me back what I've missed! But, Priya....sometimes it scares the shit out of me...what if anything happens to you...what if anything happens to our baby...I just feel suffocating thinking about all these...I didn't mean what I had said! Priya nods in aggression...I know Ram...but, trust me....everything is going to be fine....and, she takes his hand into her and places it upon her stomach...THIS..is going to be our BEST decision ever...I know you can't feel the baby now...but, you can feel a life breathing inside...no? He shivers a little....and then, nods to her...all his fears seem to be calming down!
Precap:
"Itna toh mujhe hai maaloom
Milke tujhe behtar main insaan ban gaya
Thoda thoda tujh se seekha
Pyaar karne ka tareeka"
- PriAm -
Next day: (Karva Chauth evening)
Priya dresses up in a red Anarkali suit...putting a pinch of vermillion on her hairline...she applies a little bit of Kohl on her eyes....to twist her Bindi a little...she looks into the mirror...the salwar suit seems to be hugging her frame...Neha was right...she's already showing a little! A sudden thought comes into her mind...she's been feeling extremely fatigue and a little more bloated than she should be at this stage! what if Ram's insecurities come true...what if there's something wrong with this baby? When she was engrossed into her thoughts...KK calls her out...
Hearing Krishna Ji calling for her...she joins them to gather in the terrace...once the moon peeps in...everyone performs the pooja...she feels a little shy while Ram sees her through a round strainer...she even gestures him to put it down...following others...Ram showers her with a handful of flower petals... she lowers down her eyes in an attempt to control her tears...the favorite part of the ritual for Ram was when she put a laddu into his mouth!
***
Next evening:
Priya was arranging her wardrobes...when Ram comes back from the office....while folding her clothes...she pondered into a thought....how to reveal this to Ram? Knowing him, he's definitely going to overreact...! Once he freshens up and gets into the bed cozily, she too sits beside him....he places his arms behind her back...while she keeps one of her hands on his thigh...settling his hair, she initiates a conversation...I nah have a gift for you....accha? He asks in a melting tone....why so? Ooo...you kept fast for my...oh...no...our wellbeing nah...that's why! Ahan! Madam, I didn't keep it for you...I kept it for my child...he tries to observe her reaction from the corner of his eyes...though he wanted her to react to such a claim...she showed no interest in his jokes! Ram realizes that she is up to something!
Taking a pause, she continues....you wanted to have too many kids to count, no? He gives a satisfactory smile...ha! What if your wish gets fulfil right away? He seems to be a little frightened...kya baat kar rehi ho yaar? Aur paida karni hai kya? She playfully smiles....phle yeh dono toh ajaye...Ram nods his head...then, after a moment, he inquires surprisingly...Dono? Priya heaves in...and then says, what if we have twins? Ram seems to be static...I consulted my doctor today...after listening to my symptoms, she was saying that maybe we're going to have twins! She jerks Ram a little...Ram, aap sunh reh ho na?
Ram thinks for a moment...Priya, giving birth to one child is as it is risky at your age...and, now two? Beads of sweat flow down his forehead...toh kya hua, Ram? Life is all about a little amount of uncertainties, which follows a huge reward! Ram still doesn't seem to be convince...Ram, yaar...just think about it! We wanted just one child...now, we may have two gifts from the almighty! Ram interrogates...Priya, was Ms. Silvia (her health specialist) sure about it? Priya replies...nai, sure toh nai hai! These all are our assumptions! Then, Priya...we must get the ultrasound done! I mean, I need to be very careful with your diet and make sure that you follow a healthy routine! We can't afford to take any risk with your health! Relax yaar, wase bhi, it's safer to get the ultrasound done after week 11, if it's not an emergency! Aaa...maa...yaar! She presses his forehead in an attempt to settle his mind....he looks at her intently...how Priya..how? how you manage to be so calm...how can you take such a serious matter so lightly? Don't you feel afraid? She smiles...this is because, Mistaar. Kapoor...you tend to bear all tensions of my share! He presses his lips...and a drop of tear sheds down...touching her palms...getting a little emotional...she says...Ram, yaar...don't do this!
He takes her into a tight embrace! After a moment, he says...Priya...do you really think that we're going to have twins? Priya twists her lips...yeah, I think so! I mean my intuition says so... and Mr. Kapoor...your wife is always right!! Accha? He grins...Priya joins him... Ha...ha...ha! They burst out laughing! Ram suddenly remarks...mothers are too lucky, no? They can feel a baby since the beginning! Who says? Fathers are also lucky! They can hear the heartbeat of their babies...since the beginning! Ram awes at such a declaration!
A little later, Mr. Kapoor carefully bends down to his wife's lower abdomen...he couldn't pinpoint if it was the heartbeat that he could hear...but, he knew that whatever it was, it was incalculable!
***
At week 16:
Priya reclining on the bed check Peehu's notebook...while Peehu was learning a poem...Peehu notices that Priya sits up instantaneously...keeping a hand on her tummy...Peehu inquires worriedly...what happened Mumma? Should I call Dadi or Chachi? Priya smiles a little...No pagal! Mumma's fine! Then, what happened Mumma? Priya strokes her hand in Peehu's hair...while keeping her another hand on her stomach...then, Mumma why did you get up suddenly? That's because...chote babies nah...playing inside Mumma! Peehu asks inquisitively...really Mumma? They can play? Papa showed me a video...I couldn't even see them! That's because they're still so tiny! But, you can feel them! Really Mumma? She gets excited! Priya laughs at her innocence...baby, you can even talk to them...maybe they will respond to their Big sister? Priya takes Peehu's palm and places it upon her tummy...both Priya and Peehu do a little chit-chat with the babies...
Peehu: chote babies, do you know...Papa nah....will take us for a holiday...we'll have loads of fun there!
Priya: babies, last night we slept well, no? your papa was snoring away to glory...that actually was peaceful to hear...no?
Saying this, she laughs out loud! Peehu too joins the laughter...suddenly, she feels a slight sensation under her little palms! She opens her jaw in awe, Mumma...were they our little babies? Priya lovingly pats her back...yes...darling! Peehu jumps out in joy!
Mumma, what'll we call them? Priya shakes her hand...abhi toh we don't know! But, Mumma was thinking to call them Gappi and Pappi! How about that? That sounds great Mumma! Peehu exclaims clapping her hands!
Priya messages Ram...Gappi and Pappi said to Mumma to pass 'Thanks' to their Papa! Ram replies almost instantly...what rubbish!? We won't name our kids these! He sends another text...by the way, why did they thank their papa? Priya answers back, they were telling Mumma that they like when their papa snores loudly...it's like a lullaby to them! Ram sends back a SMS...ahan see, even they like me snoring!
***
Soon after Ram enters the house, Peehu pulls his hand and gets him to RaYa's room...she starts talking without a pause...Papa...do you know? Today nah, it was magic! Peehu na felt the butterflies! Ram inquires her adorably...oh accha! You strolled in the garden? Your flower plants are getting bigger nah? You saw butterflies there? Offooo Papa! Peehu felt butterflies on Mumma's tummy! Ram takes a moment to understand what's she saying! Soon Priya joins them...Peehu baby...you didn't tell Papa...? You could feel the butterflies as we were gossiping about Papa...with Gappi and Pappi! No? Priya claps Peehu's hand...ha..Papa...ha...we told them about your snoring...only then they flattered!
Next moment, Papa and Peehu tried their best to feel the butterflies again...Peehu even intimated Papa's snoring...Mumma even argued with Papa...Papa even bowed down to Mumma holding his ears...but, there was no response from the butterflies!
***
At midnight, Priya got up to have water...while drinking it...she could sense a light movement inside her...she was about to wake Ram up...but, seeing him sleep peacefully...she too drifts off....with a loud sound of snoring in the background of course!
At week 20:
To escape from their routine life, all the couples planned for a mini holiday in a wellness and spa center in Mumbai...Priya kept sleeping in the whole journey...keeping her head on Ram's shoulder...Peehu too took a small nap sleeping on Ram's lap...although his neck was hurting a little...he preferred not to disturb the sleep of his girls...although he was a little afraid that the light snore of Vikram...who was resting on the next seat may awake them up...
Khush also slept on Natasha's thigh...for an hour! It was almost evening...when they reached the venue... they preferred spending the rest of the time simply gossiping with one another....seating under the open sky...enjoying some mouth-watering snacks!
As it dawns...Natasha puts Khush into sleep...while Neha makes Peehu drink a glass of milk...Soumya orders for some vegetable soup and sends it to RaYa's room...though Ram was reluctant to have it...he had to sip a little on Priya's insistence...
***
As they unpack, Priya realizes that she forgot to pack her nightwear...she was about to step out to look for the girls...if they could help her out with something...she steps back remembering that their slim fits may no longer fit her...
Being a little frustrated, she looks for something loose in her luggage....Ram who was observing her from the basin mirror, comes forward...and hands her one set of his white kurta...she wonders a little...Ram assures her...don't worry...I won't mind sharing this with Gappi and Pappi! Priya smirks...accha? Oss din toh badi problem thi apko...kurta share karne mein? He acts itching his nose...kis din? She draws the collar of his shirt..accha? You don't remember? She nuzzling his neck a little...says...yaad dilaon apko? He folding his arms around her...exclaims...pagal!
Later in the night, Ram too changes into his white set of kurta...while coming back from the changing room, Ram finds her talking to the butterflies...stroking her hands on her bulging tummy...he too joins in...babies...Mumma and Papa look identical, no...he declares! Both of them burst out laughing!
Next morning:
Neha introduced RaYa to a well-known yoga instructor...who guided them to absorb some esoteric approaches for yoga...although it went above Ram's head...he kept quiet knowing that Priya will accompany him throughout the process...once the trainer left, Ram started asking thousands of questions...Priya gestures her to keep quiet...she inhales a deep breath...indicates Ram to do so...after a moment....Ram opens his eyes...feeling quite comforted...he notices that Priya's eyes are still close...he goes near Priya...and gently strokes his hands upon her protruding belly...finally...he too could feel the butterflies...both lived in the moment...appreciating the silence!
Next Sunday morning:
Peehu and Khush had a mini painting competition...they kept throwing colors into each other's faces while drawing cartons...when Natasha and Soumya were about to give up...Mrs. Priya Kapoor steps in...to pacify the little monsters...after an hour of exertion from all the ladies...finally...the munchkins gave in! While Soumya and Natasha took them away to give a bath...Priya huffs....ah! Her another set of little monkeys seem to be indulged into a fight out there...in their own universe!
***
While entering her room...she looks at her messy hair...she couldn't figure out if the kids have colored their drawings or her hair more...she runs her finger through her hairlines...she exclaims out of irritation, now it will take an hour to clean this mess! Ram suggests from his rocking chair...why don't you go with Soumya or Choti...get a hair wash...and your regular foot massage too? Priya answers back...do you want me to stay like this till the afternoon? These colors...yuck! While rebuking the Kapoors...she gets her clothes out from the closet...a minute later...while she was going to the bathroom...Ram follows her...she screams a little...Ram...don't tell me now that you're going to the bathroom...Ram...you take too long...Ram shuts her up by keeping his fingers on her mouth...sssh! You talk too much! He unties her lock of hair...then turns the hand shower on...and scrubs her hair to clean it thoroughly...then, he gets a little bit of gel and gently massages it on her scalp! Within a moment, his grumpy wife flashed a joyful smile...she felt thankful to the universe...life was nothing but a combination of such little moments!
A week later, Diwali celebration:
Priya was working relentlessly on her laptop for her online bookshop....which she and Neha started together a year back...having Diwali coming closer, they were planning for some last minutes offers! Moreover, baby rooms are also needed to be decorated! Priya glances at Ram...who seems to be busy on his phone...Raam...yar, I'm telling you....let's check for the gender of the babies! Ram not looking back from the screen...says....no, Madam! Ram...yaar...you're not getting it! It will help us to decorate their rooms beautifully! Ah! As in? Jaise ki we can...paint it accordingly! Ram keeping aside his phone, goes near Priya....takes her palms into his hands...Priya...I do not want them to be confined within our imaginations...we'll give them everything within our capacity...they'll choose....whatever they like! Priya couldn't help but agree!
***
The entire family gathers for the Diwali celebration...Ram, Priya and Peehu dressed up in blue...complimenting each other...after taking blessings from KK, Sudhir takes RaYa into an embrace...
Seeing Sudhir observing RaYaPi from a little behind ...KK joins him...she smiles at him and says...you know, Sudhir Ji...I used to think that one can never get back the time lost....but, seeing them....now I understand that people can get back anything gone...if they truly work toward getting it back!
At week 30:
Priya tossed on the bed...quite a few times...then, got up from the bed...slowly put on her slippers...and strolled around....Ram observed her puffed eyes...the dirk circles below her eyes didn't miss his notice...Priya's confined her movements now a days...yesterday, Ram heard her telling to Neha that she would prefer staying home than attending a book launch event next day....Ram thought carefully...Priya badly wanted to have another child...so that Ram could live those moments lost...so that they could enjoy raising a child together...a Father's role in a pregnancy seemed so insignificant to him...somehow, this fact bothered him...he didn't feel happy inside knowing that Priya had to quit her work life....to make a balance with her family life! He saw her struggling to walk around...the moment he was observing her...her eyes fell upon him...she flashed a smile spontaneously! Ram reciprocated to it!
At week 32:
Priya was waddling in the garden...Ram was accompanying her...entwining her hand into his palms....Ram...why didn't you go to office today? I'm positive yaar! Moreover, I am due six weeks later...you can't bunk your work like this...I didn't skip it...I got a leave! Accha? Yes, I am on parental leave! Ah! So are you the privileged one who enjoys this quota? Priya squints her eyes...no yaar! We've announced such a quota for all the good-to-be dads working for Kapoor Industries...seriously...? Haa..yaar...! For the next six months, I'll be your personal driver, cook, masseur and all! Priya murmurs under her breath...phir toh hogaya kam...! Kuch kaha tumne? Nahi toh!
***
At week 37, Priya has been admitted into the hospital due to severe backpain...although the C-section was suppose to take place a week later, taking her condition into account, her gynecologist wanted to do the cesarian at the soonest.
***
Priya half lying on the hospital bed, clutched her back with one hand...while she covered her forehead with another hand....Ram enters the room...in a visitor's suit...Ram goes near her...settles her messy hear a little...caressing her forehead...he says...you know Priya... when I met you six years later, I felt that you weren't strong enough to stand by me...that's why you left...but, today, I know that I was wrong! You're the strongest women I've ever known...and I feel proud that YOU are the mother of my children! A drop of tear rolls down his eyes...she manages to stroke her palm on his sweaty forehead...
***
Hours later, Priya blinks her eyes...the midwives on duty check on her blood pressure and heartbeat...Ram who's sitting on the side sofa, gets up anxiously....he touches her cheek slightly...although she's still under the impression of the anesthesia, she could see his hands shaking....she asks mildly...Ram...our babies? She shakes one of his hands...Raam...where're they? Huh! Oh! I don't know! Must have been fine! What? She attempts to stir....what do you mean yaar? The nurses ask her to relax...her gynae enters flashing a smile...she could read Priya's weary face...don't worry...she assured her...your babies are absolutely fine...they're under observation for the next 24 hours...but, you both can surely meet them!
Once she leaves....Priya asks Ram gently...how do they look Ram? Ram takes a pause and says...Maa was saying they have taken after their mother! What? You didn't meet them yet!? How could you!? I wanted to greet them together...with you! What nonsense...you're just too much! How they must have had felt yaar! Relax Priya....all the Shergils, Kapoors and Sharmas have already met them....just except their parents! Still, Priya wasn't convinced with the thought that Ram didn't see them even for once...the moment she continued arguing with him, they saw KK and Soumya entering the cabin...holding two heavenly children in their arms...Natasha carefully took one of them and placed near Priya's arm...Priya smiled at the little human...blinking it's eyes...in amusement...though she had cannula attached to her wrist, she caressed his puffy cheeks, which are just like his Father...seeing Ram awestruck, Soumya handed him the baby from her lap....he stared at the little angel...a pink baby wrapped inside a pink towel...observing him with a pair of inquisitive eyes...those eyes seemed so known to him...those were just like Priya! He tried to gently touch her eyes...to feel it! She whimpered a little! Ram got a little nervous...KK instantly rocked her by taking her in arms and then kept her near her little brother...Ram just kept staring at them who seem to be rubbing their noses on their mother's arm...to absorb the familiar fragrance...
A little Priya and a little Ram....PriAm...as Peehu called them!
***
To be continued....
comment:
p_commentcount