Page 80 of Love Locked
“Dad, I’m sorry, I didn’t tell you the real reason for going to the US that day,” Kyra said sheepishly.
“I wish you would have told us, sweetheart. I would have made sure everything was fine. We would never let anyone hurt you. Do you know how helpless a father feels when he knows his daughter is in a difficult situation and can’t help her?” Digvijay got emotional.
“Dad, I didn’t do it to hurt you. You’ve always been there for us whenever we needed you. But I’m not a kid anymore. I wanted to decide for myself what I could do and did what I thought was right.”
“You did the right thing, sweetie. But it’s tough to accept that my little girl is not so little anymore. That she doesn’t need me.”
“I will always need you, Dad. But maybe differently. I will fight my own battles, but I will always be your little girl. That will never change.” Tears filled her eyes as she hugged him.
Her Dad nodded. “You’re right, sweetheart. I’ll always be there for you, and I’m so happy you found Kabir.” He patted her head affectionately as he looked at Kabir. “I hope you know what you’re getting into, young man. I’ve always liked you, but you hurt my daughter, and no one will be able to save you. Not even your father.”
“If he hurts her, Vijay, I will myself drag him by the ear and leave him at your mercy to do as pleased.” Prithvi Oberoi declared.
“You both won’t have to do any of that. I will never hurt her. I promise.” Kabir assured both Digvijay and Prithvi.
“Mom, you’re not angry, right?” Kyra asked her mother, who was still silent.
“No, sweetie. I’m not. Even if I tried, I couldn’t have found anyone better than Kabir for you. We were shocked, but not because of the age difference, as age is just a number, but because it was Kabir. Honestly, we never thought about you both getting together. But looking at you guys now, it’s the best thing that could have happened to this family.” Vrinda pulled Kyra in a tight hug, and Kyra felt she would explode with happiness.
“This definitely wasn’t a surprise for me,” Prithvi smirked, and everyone’s attention went to him.
“Now, what did you do, Prithvi?” Astha gave her husband an incredulous look.
“I had an inkling that Kyra liked Kabir. I could see it way back when she was a teenager, and I could see it even when she grew and transformed into a gorgeous and elegant woman. Kabir and Kyra were like solo puzzle pieces, but they fit together perfectly. Why do you think I suggested Kyra’s name for the position of CSO?” Prithvi revealed smugly.
“I told you not to meddle in our kids’ lives anymore. You never listen to me.” Astha swatted him playfully.
“I didn’t do anything except nudge them in the right direction.” He laughed.
“So, Dad gets the credit for getting us all settled.” Adil grinned.
“I’d say the credit of you three falling in love.” Prithvi beamed happily. He felt contented seeing his sons under one roof… happy, successful and a part of one big happy family.
“I’m happy for you both. Our blessings are always with you. And I’m so glad my son found someone like you, Kyra,” Prithvi said, and Kyra blushed.
Astha turned to Kyra and said, “Kyra, we’re thrilled with this news, and I can’t wait to plan this wedding with you both. Kabir, I’m so glad you two found each other.” She kissed his forehead.
“Kyra, I’m so happy for you.” Mira enveloped Kyra in a hug that was full of warmth.
“I’m sorry, Di. I should have told you everything from the beginning. I just thought I would handle everything by myself. I wanted to show you that I’ve grown up.”
“I know that, Ky. But still, you’ll forever be my little sister. I love you. And always remember, you are not alone. You can always come and talk to me about anything. If you ever want to complain about Kabir, I’ll happily be your sounding board.” Mira laughed, and Kyra nodded as tears flew down her cheeks.
“I don’t know how to thank you,” Nitya said, sobbing as she engulfed Kyra in a tight hug. “I love you, Ky. I don’t have words for what you did for me. You protected me.”
“Tiya, shh. Don’t cry, please. I love you, and if anyone ever tries to hurt you, I will kill them with my bare hands. That’s a promise.” Kyra wiped Nitya’s tears.
“Now that is enough crying for today, my darlings. Astha here wants to say something.” Vrinda looked at her daughters sitting together. She felt immensely proud of raising such passionate and independent women who valued family and love.
Astha signalled Mira to hand her a box. Astha opened the box to take out a pair of stunning gold bangles, and she made Kyra wear them. The exquisite bangles were delicately carved with lotuses and were encrusted with diamonds. It was a tradition, symbolising the acceptance from Kabir’s family, and it made Kyra shed tears of happiness.
“Welcome to the family, Kyra. Officially.” Astha kissed her forehead in affection, welcoming her into the Oberoi family.
“Welcome to the family, sister-in-law.” Mira and Ruhi squealed in happiness.
Everyone cheered for them.
Kyra felt her face glow with all the happiness she was surrounded with. She met Kabir’s gaze over all the chaos around them. He looked at her as if she was his entire universe…and that look sealed her fate.
