1 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 2 𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙠𝙨 𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧

The evening air was thick with anticipation and the faint scent of marigold garlands that adorned the haveli. The golden hues of the setting sun bathed the courtyard in a warm glow as the household buzzed with activity.

Kusum moved briskly from one corner of the haveli to another, her voice carrying over the sounds of bustling servants and the occasional clink of utensils from the kitchen.

Trailing behind her, Mannu, the cutie, followed closely, his tail wagging enthusiastically as he sensed the excitement.

"Mannu, out of the way!" Kusum chided gently, nudging the dog aside as she directed the servants hanging decorations. "We need those up before nightfall!"

In the kitchen, the aroma of freshly made sweets filled the air. The maids were busily shaping ladoos, their hands moving swiftly and expertly.

"Hurry up, girls, we need more ladoos!" Kusum directed, her tone a mix of urgency and encouragement.

Nearby, a sweet maker deftly prepared namkeens, the sizzling sound of frying dough adding to the cacophony.

"Is everything going well here?" Kusum asked the sweet maker, her eyes scanning the array of treats.

"Yes Didi, everything is on track. You will see how people will ask for more namkeens," the sweet maker replied confidently.

Kusum's mind was racing with a hundred tasks, but one concern nagged at her.

She found her son Suraj amidst the flurry of activity and approached him with a look of determination.

"Suraj, did you send the car to Gauripur to bring Manish and his mother?" she asked, her eyes narrowing slightly in concern.

"Yes, Maa, the car has been sent. It will arrive by tomorrow." Suraj replied, trying to reassure her.

Kusum nodded, but her worry was not completely eased.

"And what about Prithvi? When is he coming? It's almost evening," she pressed on, the anxiety clear in her voice.

"Woo bhi aa jayenge, Maa," Suraj said, attempting to calm her.

(He will also reach soon, Maa.)

Kusum's frustration bubbled over. "Kya aa jayenge'? Kal teri Bhabhi ki godh bharai hai aur abhi shaam hone ko aayi hai!" she exclaimed.

(What do you mean he will reach soon? Tomorrow is your sister-in-law's baby shower and it's already getting late!)

"Maa, Bhaiya Aamerica se aa rahe hain, samjhi Aamerica. Shampur nahi gaye hain ki subha ko gaye aur raat ko wapas aa gaye," Suraj explained, his tone exasperated.

(Maa, Brother is coming from America, understand, America. It's not like he went to Shampur where he could leave in the morning and come back by night.)

Kusum muttered under her breath, shaking her head.

"Aajkal ke bachon se muh lagna hi theek nahi," she murmured, turning away to continue her rounds.

(Nowadays, it's useless to argue with kids.)

On her way to Tara's room, she encountered Manvi, who was busy drying the mehndi on her hands.

"Ruk, teri bhabhi ko mehndi lag gayi?" Kusum asked, her eyes scanning the intricate designs on her hand.

(Wait, your sister-in-law has got mehndi applied.)

"Maa, woh lag rahi hai abhi," Manvi answered.

(Maa, she is getting it applied right now.)

"Haan, haan, jab aap Maharani pehle lagane baithengi toh Tara ko kab lagegi? Ja, jaake kaam sambhal," Kusum ordered, her tone sharp and commanding.

(Yes, yes, if the queen sits down to get hers done first, when will Tara get hers? Go and take care of the work.)

Manvi nodded quickly and hurried off to attend to her tasks. Kusum continued towards Tara's room, her mind still racing with the preparations for the next day.

As she entered Tara's room, she saw her daughter-in-law sitting quietly, her hand resting on a pillow while a maid carefully applied intricate mehndi designs.

Tara's other hand was already adorned with the deep, reddish-brown patterns, a stark contrast against her olive skin.

She had completed her 7 months of pregnancy, and her belly was now round and prominent, a beautiful testament to the new life she was carrying.

The fabric of her saree was draped carefully to accommodate her growing belly, the gentle curve symbolizing the joy and anticipation of the child soon to come.Kusum's heart softened at the sight.

She moved closer, her eyes filled with a mix of affection and concern.

"Beta, how are you feeling?" she asked gently, her voice a soothing balm amidst the chaos.

Tara looked up, her eyes meeting Kusum's with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

"I'm alright, Maaji. Just a little tired," she admitted, her voice soft but steady.

Kusum placed a comforting hand on Tara's shoulder.

"It's natural to feel that way. Tomorrow is a big day, but don't worry, everything will be perfect," she assured, her smile warm and reassuring.

Tara nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Thank you, Maaji."

Kusum's eyes lingered on Tara's belly, the life within stirring a deep sense of protectiveness and love within her.

She adjusted the pillow beneath Tara's hand, ensuring her comfort.

"You're carrying such a precious gift. Rest now, everything is in good hands," she said softly.

With one last glance at Tara, Kusum left the room, her mind returning to the myriad of tasks that still awaited her.

She couldn't shake the hope that Prithvi would make it in time for the ceremony, to be part of this joyous celebration.

As she moved through the bustling haveli, the promise of new beginnings and the strength of family filled her heart with unwavering determination.

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The next morning dawned bright and early, with a flurry of activity sweeping through the haveli.

The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and the occasional bark from Mannu, who was just as caught up in the excitement as everyone else.

The courtyard was transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colors, with marigold garlands draped elegantly over every surface and colorful rangoli designs adorning the ground.

A canopy had been set up, its fabric billowing gently in the morning breeze, creating a festive yet intimate atmosphere.

The sweet, heady scent of dhuni mixed with the aromas of various delicacies being prepared in the kitchen.Inside, Kusum was in her element, overseeing every detail with meticulous care.

She moved from one task to another, her energy seemingly endless. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and pride as she made sure everything was perfect for the baby shower.

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Tara sat alone in her room, dressed in just her blouse and petticoat, her eyes fixed on her reflection in the mirror. Her hands rested gently on her baby bump, feeling the occasional flutter of movement.

Today was meant to be a joyous occasion, celebrating both her baby shower and the 1-year anniversary of her marriage to Prithvi.

Yet, her heart was heavy, burdened by a sense of restlessness and unease.

The weight of her impending motherhood and the milestone of her marriage seemed overshadowed by a nagging feeling that something was amiss.

The baby, their child, was a symbol of hope and new beginnings, but today, that hope felt fragile.

A soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Kusum entered the room with a nervous smile, her eyes betraying her own sense of unease.

She stood behind Tara, her gaze meeting Tara's through the mirror. The tension in the room was palpable, a shared understanding of the anxiety that weighed on them both.

"Tara, beta," Kusum began, her voice gentle but strained. "How are you feeling?"

Tara forced a smile, trying to mask her anxiety. "I'm fine, Maaji. Just...a bit overwhelmed."

Kusum nodded, her expression softening with empathy. She knew Tara well enough to sense that something was amiss.

"It's natural to feel that way, especially today. But remember, you are surrounded by people who love you."

Tara looked down, her fingers tracing the curve of her belly.

"I know, Maa. It's just...I can't shake this feeling that something bad is going to happen."

Kusum's smile faltered slightly, her own fears mirroring Tara's.

She had been trying to keep her worries at bay, but seeing Tara so distressed made it harder to maintain her composure.

"Everything will be alright, beta. We are here for you."

Tara nodded, appreciating Kusum's attempt to reassure her, but the unease lingered.

She could see the same worry reflected in Kusum's eyes, an unspoken acknowledgment that they both felt the shadow of something ominous hanging over them.

As Kusum began helping Tara prepare for the ceremony, the room gradually filled with the light of the setting sun, casting a warm glow over the two women.

Despite the lingering sense of foreboding, Tara resolved to focus on the present moment, to find solace in the support of her family, and to hope that whatever storm was brewing would pass without harm.

Together, they faced the mirror, two generations of women linked by love, hope, and a shared sense of apprehension about the future.

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The courtyard was a vibrant tapestry of colors and sounds as the women of the haveli moved gracefully in their beautiful sarees, the fragrance of marigold and jasmine filling the air.

As evening descended, the soft glow of lanterns illuminated the space, casting a warm and inviting light over the assembled guests.

In her room, Tara sat patiently as Kusum deftly helped her into a stunning saree.

The fabric was rich and luxurious, its intricate embroidery catching the light with every movement.

Kusum adjusted the pleats and pallu with practiced ease, making sure every detail was perfect.

She added a few pieces of delicate jewelry-simple yet elegant, just enough to enhance Tara's natural beauty.

"You look beautiful, beta," Kusum said, a proud smile lighting up her face. Tara gave her a shy smile in return, her nerves momentarily forgotten.

Kusum took Tara's hand, guiding her out of the room and down the staircase.

The soft jingle of bangles accompanied their steps. As they descended, the chatter of guests quieted, and all eyes turned to the expectant mother.

There was a collective intake of breath as everyone admired Tara, radiant in her attire.

As they reached the courtyard, Manik, who had been playing nearby, spotted his mother and rushed over.

His little face lit up with joy as he saw her, and he eagerly took his place beside her, holding onto her hand.

The women gathered around Tara, their faces glowing with affection and excitement.

They began to sing traditional songs, their voices blending harmoniously in celebration of the new life soon to be welcomed into the world.

One by one, they approached Tara, offering their blessings and gifts. Each gift was a token of love and goodwill-clothes for the baby, sweets, and small items for Tara.

One elderly woman stepped forward, her hands holding a silver tray with a small idol of Lord Krishna.

She placed it gently in Tara's lap, her eyes twinkling with wisdom and warmth.

"May your child be as divine and playful as Krishna," she said, her voice full of blessings.

Another woman gifted a beautifully embroidered blanket, soft to the touch. "For the little one, to keep him warm and safe," she said with a kind smile.

As the gifts continued to pile up, Tara felt a deep sense of gratitude. She looked around at the faces of those who had come to share in her joy, feeling their love and support enveloping her like a warm embrace.

Kusum, standing nearby, watched with pride and a hint of emotion in her eyes.

She had orchestrated the entire event with meticulous care, and seeing her daughter-in-law so cherished by the family and community filled her heart with immense satisfaction.

The festivities carried on, laughter and music filling the air. Manik, now seated comfortably beside his mother, clung to her, his presence a constant source of comfort.

Tara's earlier anxieties began to fade, replaced by the warmth of the celebration and the tangible love surrounding her.

As the night continued, Tara's thoughts briefly turned to Prithvi. She hoped he would arrive soon to share in this special moment.

But for now, surrounded by family and friends, she allowed herself to bask in the joy and blessings of the evening, feeling a renewed sense of hope and anticipation for the future.

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The evening's celebrations were in full swing, the courtyard alive with music, laughter, and the hum of conversation.

Tara, now fully immersed in the festivities, sat with Manik beside her, the little boy almost acting as a guardian. Mannu, lay protectively at her feet, his eyes alert and watchful.

Kusum, busy ensuring that every guest was well-attended to, was momentarily distracted when Suraj approached her with a sense of urgency. He leaned in close, his voice low and serious.

"Maa, Dadi is on her way and should be here any moment," he informed her, his eyes scanning the courtyard to gauge the security situation.

Kusum's expression shifted from joyous to concerned. She nodded, her mind quickly pivoting to the necessary preparations.

"Alright, Suraj. Make sure everything is in place. We can't afford any slip-ups," she instructed, her tone firm and resolute.

Suraj gave a quick nod and then made his way to the grand door of the haveli. The imposing structure stood tall, a symbol of the family's legacy and strength.

Suraj's presence at the entrance was commanding as he took charge of the situation.

He addressed the 50 guards, each one equipped with rifles, their faces serious and vigilant.

"Spread out and keep your eyes open. We need to ensure the safety of everyone here. No one gets in without proper clearance," he ordered, his voice carrying authority.

The guards dispersed, taking up strategic positions around the perimeter of the haveli.

Their presence was a stark reminder of the underlying tensions, even amid such a joyous occasion. Suraj watched them go, satisfied that they were well-prepared for any eventuality.

Inside, the atmosphere remained lively and warm. Mannu continued to sit loyally beside Tara, his watchful eyes a silent assurance of protection.

Tara, sensing the subtle shift in the air, glanced at Kusum, who gave her a reassuring smile despite her own underlying worries.

As Suraj re-entered the courtyard, he caught Kusum's eye and gave a slight nod, indicating that everything was under control.

Kusum, in turn, exhaled a quiet sigh of relief, focusing back on the guests and ensuring the celebration continued smoothly.

The anticipation of Padma's arrival lingered, but for now, the family was united, the warmth of their togetherness creating a barrier against any potential threat.

"Maa, jalebi!" exclaimed Manik, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the hot, fresh jalebis being served.

Tara smiled warmly at her son. "Go and ask Manvi Bua to make you eat one," she said, her heart swelling with joy at the sight of his excitement.

Manik, on searching Manvi, darted towards the sweet table, his excitement palpable.

The front garden of the haveli, where the function was being held, was filled with laughter and the sounds of celebration.

Women continued to bless Tara and offer their gifts, while children ran around, playing amidst the vibrant decorations.

But in an instant, the joyous atmosphere was shattered by the deafening crack of a GUNSHOT.

Panic erupted as people screamed and scrambled, knocking over chairs and tables in their haste to find cover.

The sound of gunfire echoed through the garden, blending with the cries of terror.

"Get down!" someone shouted, the urgency in their voice cutting through the chaos.

Tara's heart pounded with fear. Her only thought was of Manik. She pushed through the panicked crowd, her eyes desperately scanning for her son.

"Manik! Manik!" she called out, her voice hoarse with anxiety.

As she ran towards the opposite side of the garden, she caught sight of the main gates where attackers, faces covered and riding on horses, stormed in. The glint of weapons in their hands sent a chill down her spine.

Another gunshot whizzed past her, narrowly missing her head. Her eyes frantically scanned the crowd, but Manik was nowhere to be seen.

Fear tightened its grip on her heart as she realized the attackers had already breached the haveli.

Kusum, with a mother's instinct, tried to keep an eye on Tara while rallying the household guards.

"Secure the gates! Protect the women and children!" she commanded, her voice carrying over the din.

But it was too late. The attackers had already infiltrated, their dark figures slipping through the chaos unnoticed. They moved with chilling precision, their targets clear in their minds.

Tara's breath came in ragged gasps as she ran through the garden, desperately searching for Manik. Her mind raced with thoughts of his safety. She had to find him, had to keep him safe.

She pushed through the throngs of people, her eyes darting everywhere. The garden was a blur of frightened faces and chaos.

As she reached a secluded corner, she saw a group of attackers force their way inside.

Her heart clenched with terror. "Manik!" she screamed, her voice breaking with desperation. She had to find him before the attackers did.

As Tara continued her frantic search, she prayed that Manik was safe, somewhere hidden from the danger.

The fear for her son's safety drove her forward, her resolve unwavering despite the chaos surrounding her.

Tara ran through the large corridors of the haveli, her breaths coming in ragged gasps, her swollen belly making each step a Herculean effort.

The opulent surroundings, once a symbol of safety and prosperity, now seemed to close in on her, suffused with dread.

Her heart pounded violently, each beat echoing the urgency and fear coursing through her veins.

As she turned a corner, her worst nightmare materialized before her eyes. Manik, her precious child, was huddled on the floor, his tiny body trembling.

Standing over him was a man, his face obscured by a black cloth, the cold barrel of a gun pointed directly at Manik's head. The sight made Tara's blood run cold, her heartbeat stuttering in sheer terror.

"Manik!!" Tara's scream tore through the air, a raw, primal sound that resonated with every fiber of her being.

She launched herself forward, adrenaline overriding the pain and exhaustion. In a desperate, protective gesture, she scooped Manik into her arms, shielding his small frame with her own.

She pushed herself away from the gunman, backing into a nearby corner, her body a protective shield around her son.

Manik clung to her, his face buried in her chest, his small form shaking with fear.

The man advanced slowly, his steps deliberate and menacing, the gun unwavering in his grip.

Tara's back hit the cold, unyielding wall, and she realized with a sinking dread that she was trapped.

There was nowhere left to retreat. Desperation clawed at her insides as she sank to her knees, clutching Manik tightly to her.

She looked up at the gunman, her eyes wide with a mixture of fear, pleading, and defiance.

The man stood over them, his presence looming and oppressive. The barrel of the rifle lowered until it rested against her forehead, the cold metal pressing into her skin, a chilling reminder of their peril.

Tara's heart hammered in her chest, her breaths shallow and rapid. She could feel Manik's little hands clutching at her blouse, his muffled sobs vibrating against her chest.

"Please, leave us...," she whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. The words were barely audible, a desperate plea that hung in the air between them.

Her eyes searched the man's hidden face, looking for any sign of mercy, any hint that he might spare them.

The cold barrel of the gun seemed to burn against her forehead, and time itself seemed to freeze.

The sounds of chaos from outside - the screams, the gunfire, the frantic footsteps - all faded into a distant hum. In that moment, there was only the man, the gun, and the crushing weight of fear.

Tara held her breath, her entire world narrowing to that single point of contact between the gun and her skin.

Her thoughts raced, a whirlwind of memories, fears, and a desperate hope that someone, anyone, would come to their rescue.

The scene was suspended in a tense, unbearable silence, a cliffhanger between life and death.

Tara's heart beat wildly, a drum of terror in the quiet stillness, as she waited for whatever fate had in store for them.

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𝙏𝙊 𝘽𝙀 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙏𝙄𝙉𝙐𝙀𝘿...