Page 205 of One Hellish Desire

Both Maahi and I share a glance and then focus back on her.

“Oh, no, no. Please don't think I'm pushing you two to plan a baby soon... I just—”

“Mom,” Maahi holds her hand over the table. “Actually, Vikram and I have something to share with you all.”

Everyone stops eating, and I smile, seeing my wife take the lead in sharing this news. It's not a huge announcement, but it's important to us. We want our family to know every step we take in our lives. Since Mom brought up the baby topic, it's a good time to share.

“Share what?” Daadi asks, a bit worried. “Is everything okay with you both? Anything to worry about?”

“Nothing to worry about, Daadi. We just made a decision and wanted you all to know,” Maahi assures.

“What decision?” Dad pokes.

“I know what it is,” Mom intervenes. “They need more time to plan for babies. I totally understand if that's the case.”

“Mom,” Maahi presses her arm. “It's the opposite, actually. We were just thinking this is the right time to start a family. Vikram doesn't have any huge ventures this year that might consume his time, nor any extended business trips. I've already hired a good team to take care of all my boutiques in India and New York, which means we will have ample time to plan for a baby this year.”

The room goes silent. Maahi looks at me, and I'm already grinning. Yes, we had this conversation this week. It wasn't a planned conversation—it just happened! Maahi and I were at a nearby park and saw toddlers playing, which sparked the idea and feeling within us to have that moment in our lives too, soon. So, we quickly reviewed our business plans and decided to go for it. No more precautions while making love. We want babies. Soon!

“Say something,” Maahi nudges me with her elbow.

I scoop her into my arms.

“You said it all, sweetheart. Nothing left for me to add.”

I place a kiss on her forehead and turn to the three people who look at us as if we've announced Maahi's pregnancy.

“Wow, wow,” Mom squeals. “This is incredible. I mean, yes, why not start a family? Ask Maa and Vanraj, we were all waiting for you two to think on these terms and... Oh my god, what should I say?”

She gets up from her seat and reaches Maahi, who stands up and gives her a hug.

“I'm so happy to hear it. Please give us the good news soon.”

Maahi pouts, feeling embarrassed. Daadi is next to bless her.

“Excuse me?” I interrupt. “Why is no one blessing me? I'm also contributing here.”

Everyone laughs, and Dad reaches me and pats my back.

“I'm here for you, son. Good thought, and I wish you good luck. Making babies is easy, but nurturing them and giving them good values is tough. But I'm sure you and Maahi will give them all they need.”

“Not without your support, Dad,” I add. “We're lucky to have a family like you all to help raise our children.”

“Children?” Mom pokes. “That means you're not going to stop at one?”

I laugh.

“It's a free country, Mom. I can have as many kids as I want.”

While everyone laughs, Maahi and I share a long look. Our lives are about to take a wonderful turn—something we've both been anxiously waiting for.

MAAHI

Ever since we shared our plans with the family, my entire routine has changed. Mom and Daadi won’t let me cook much and make sure I eat all the healthy stuff to stay fit for a baby. Dad has already chosen the hospital where I’ll deliver and started adjusting his investments to include his future grandchildren. It’s amazing how a little news has brought so much life into all of us. Daadi’s traditional dos and don’ts are always on my mind. I'm not even pregnant yet, and the family is already in high gear. I'm not allowed to work late or skip any meals. Even if I'm at the boutique, Mom calls me every afternoon to check if I've eaten. I’m not allowed to drive either. Can you imagine? Vikram picks me up from work daily, and if he’s busy, Dad comes to get me. On weekends, Daadi and Mom insist I take afternoon naps, but if Vikram is home, those naps often turn into love sessions, which I don’t mind at all.

Three more months pass, and as I'm waiting for Vikram to pick me up, I feel giddy. My assistant helps me to the couch and gives me some water. She’s about to call Vikram, but he’s already here.

“Hey... you okay?” Vikram sits next to me, stroking my back.

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