83. Birthday

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As Aarush drove, he kept shaking his head in disbelief. "I still can’t believe it.

The Dr. Mahira—the president, the chief, and the owner of M Care Hospitals—was right in front of me this whole time, and I was out there struggling like an idiot to get your number!"

Mahira chuckled, looking out the window. "You really did cause trouble for my staff."

Aarush gasped dramatically. "Excuse me! I was simply a man on a mission! But seriously, how? You look so young, yet you own an entire hospital?"

Mahira smiled softly. "Hard work, dedication, and a bit of fate, I guess."

Aarush sighed, shaking his head again. "No, no. This is too much for me to process. One second, I’m thinking you’re some hidden mystery doctor, and the next, you turn out to be the boss of the entire place. Unbelievable."

Mahira just smiled, letting him rant as he drove.

Aarush huffed. "And here I was, jealous of the chief and the president. I didn’t even know I was jealous of you!"

Mahira raised an eyebrow. "Jealous?"

Aarush coughed. "No, Nothing!"

Before she could press further, they arrived at the temple. Aarush parked the car, still grumbling under his breath.

He stepped out and opened the door for her, still looking at her like she was some mythical creature.

Mahira stepped out gracefully, adjusting her dupatta. "Thank you."

Aarush leaned against the car. "I still think I should be calling you 'boss' or something."

Mahira rolled her eyes with a small smile. "Just Mahira is fine. Or you can call me Myra"

Aarush sighed dramatically. "Myra... Beautiful. Fine, Myra. But I’m still recovering from the shock."

She just chuckled before turning towards the temple steps.

As Mahira turned, Aarush tilted his head, watching her curiously. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, slipping his hands into his pockets.

Mahira glanced at him and smiled softly. "It's okay."

Taking that as his cue, he walked beside her, following her inside the temple.

The moment she stepped in, she gracefully joined her hands, closed her eyes, and bowed before the deity, her face radiating peace.

Aarush, on the other hand, snuck a glance at her before finally folding his hands in front of the idol.

"Bhagwan," he thought, staring at her from the corner of his eye, "please make this sundari fall in love with me. Just look at her—how can someone be this perfect?"

A small smile tugged at his lips as he admired her, completely forgetting to pray for anything else.

The pandit walked up to them, giving Mahira prasad and placing a hand on her head, blessing her. "May you always be happy, beti," he said.

Then, the priest glanced at Aarush, who was still dazedly staring at Mahira. The old man chuckled knowingly and blessed him too. "May you both be blessed."

Mahira gave the pandit a respectful nod before turning away. Aarush, still slightly stunned, followed her outside, his hands in his pockets as he observed her.

Instead of heading straight to the car, Mahira walked to a small stall outside the temple, where an elderly woman was selling chocolates and toffees.

She picked out several handfuls, filling a small paper bag, and handed the money to the woman, who smiled warmly at her.

Aarush raised an eyebrow, watching silently. Chocolates?

Mahira then turned away and walked toward an oranphanage beside the temple. Aarush frowned slightly before following her, confusion evident on his face.

The moment she stepped into the orphanage, the atmosphere changed.

"Myra Didi!" A chorus of excited voices rang out as children rushed toward her with bright smiles and sparkling eyes.

Aarush's eyes widened in surprise. They know her?

Mahira knelt down, opening her arms as the children threw themselves at her, hugging her tightly.

She let out a soft laugh, holding them all close. The sight made Aarush pause.

She looked different here—more at home, more at peace.

As the children continued to chatter excitedly, a few of them brought out small, handmade gifts—a beaded bracelet, a tiny clay idol, a simple greeting card with her name written in colorful letters.

Mahira’s eyes softened as she accepted each gift, thanking the children with a bright smile that could rival the sun.

She carefully put on the bracelet and held the card to her heart, as if it was the most precious thing she had ever received.

Aarush, still standing near the entrance, felt something stir within him.

This woman—Dr. Mahira,—wasn’t just brilliant and accomplished. She had a heart so big, so full of love, that even orphaned children clung to her like she was their safe haven.

He crossed his arms, leaning against the doorframe, unable to take his eyes off her.

He had never been so mesmerized by someone in his entire life.

Mahira took the paper bag full of chocolates and toffees and knelt down again, distributing them among the children.

Their faces lit up instantly, and excited cheers echoed through the orphanage.

"Thank you, Didi!" one of the younger boys squealed, hugging her tightly.

Mahira laughed, ruffling his hair. "No need to thank me, little one. Just promise me you’ll always keep smiling, okay?"

The kids all jumped in joy, unwrapping their treats eagerly. Some of the smaller ones kissed her cheeks, their tiny hands holding onto her as if she were their whole world.

Mahira let out a soft chuckle, hugging them all back, her heart full.

Aarush stood there, arms crossed, watching everything unfold. His usual cocky grin had faded into something softer—something he himself didn’t fully understand.

After a few minutes, Mahira waved at the kids. "I’ll visit again soon, okay?"

"Bye, Myra Didi!" they all chorused, waving back enthusiastically.

As she stood up, Aarush finally stepped forward. "What was that all about?" he asked, looking at her with an expression somewhere between curiosity and admiration.

Mahira dusted off her clothes and gave him a small smile. "I often visit this orphanage whenever I get time. The kids know me well."

Aarush raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching. "So, the great Dr. Mahira has a soft spot, huh?"

She just chuckled, adjusting the gifts in her hands, but they were too many for her to carry properly.

Without a word, Aarush reached out and took most of them from her, making it easier for her to hold the rest.

"What are these gifts for?" he asked, glancing at the handmade trinkets.

Mahira hesitated—a lot. Her fingers fidgeted, and she looked anywhere but at him.

Aarush narrowed his eyes. "Well?"

Finally, after a long pause, she exhaled and mumbled under her breath, "It’s my birthday today."

Aarush, who had been taking more and more of her gifts into his hands, froze. His eyes widened, his jaw slackening as the realization hit him.

"Wait. What?" His voice came out louder than he expected.

Mahira looked up at him, blinking innocently.

Aarush gaped at her. "It’s your birthday? And you didn’t think to mention it?!"

She shrugged slightly. "It’s not a big deal—"

"Not a—" Aarush ran a hand down his face, exhaling sharply. "Unbelievable. Absolutely unbelievable."

She tilted her head, watching him as he stood there, still shocked, still processing.

The great Aarush, for once, was at a loss for words.

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Rishi gently guided Mahima out of the car, her eyes still covered by the soft ribbon.

She had been patiently asking about their destination during the drive, but Rishi had kept it a secret.

Now, as they reached their spot, he carefully positioned her and slowly untied the ribbon.

As Mahima's eyes fluttered open, she gasped at the breathtaking scene before her.

They stood atop a serene hill, offering a panoramic view of the sprawling city below, bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun.

The sky was painted with shades of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the landscape.

The area was transformed into a romantic haven. Hundreds of colorful balloons swayed gently in the evening breeze, each tied to the ground, creating a whimsical atmosphere.

In the center lay a beautifully wrapped gift box, adorned with intricate ribbons and surrounded by delicate fairy lights that twinkled like stars.

The ground was blanketed with soft petals, forming a path leading to the centerpiece. Lanterns hung from nearby trees, casting a soft, ambient light, enhancing the enchanting setting.

Mahima's eyes widened in amazement, her hand covering her mouth in surprise.

The meticulous attention to detail—the balloons, the gift, the lights—all combined to create a magical moment that took her breath away.

Rishi watched her reaction, a satisfied smile spreading across his face.

The effort he had put into planning this surprise was all worth it, seeing the joy and wonder in her eyes.

"Happy birthday, Mahima," he whispered softly, stepping closer to her.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Mahima turned to him, her eyes glistening. "Rishi, this is... it's perfect. Thank you."

He took her hand, leading her towards the gift box, eager to continue the celebration he had so thoughtfully prepared.

Mahima carefully unwrapped the gift box, her eyes lighting up as she discovered its contents.

"Thank you, Rishi! You're the best!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with joy.

They settled onto a plush blanket that Rishi had thoughtfully laid out, surrounded by the gentle glow of lanterns and the vibrant array of balloons.

The panoramic view from the hilltop showcased the city below, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun.

As they enjoyed the serene ambiance, Mahima shared, "I've always loved hilltops like this. There's something so peaceful about being above everything, watching the world from a distance."

Rishi smiled, pleased that his choice of location resonated with her. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to make today special for you."

As the sun dipped closer to the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape, Rishi remembered Amrita and Ananya's advice to have Mahima home before sunset.

Reluctantly, he said, "We should probably head back now."

Mahima nodded, still beaming from the surprise. "Thank you for this, Rishi. It means a lot."

They made their way back to the car, the memory of the evening etched in their hearts.

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As the car rolled to a stop in front of Raghuwanshi Palace, Mahima stepped out, her eyes scanning the towering structure that loomed in darkness.

A frown creased her forehead. The entire palace, usually glowing with warmth and light, was eerily silent.

"Where is everyone?" she muttered, stepping forward cautiously.

She pushed open the grand doors and stepped inside, the vast hall eerily quiet.

The silence felt heavy, almost unsettling. She took another hesitant step, her heels clicking against the marble floor.

"Hello?" she called out, her voice echoing through the empty space.

And then—

The entire palace lit up in an instant. A chorus of voices erupted, filling the room with warmth.

"Happy Birthday, Mahima!"

The sudden burst of light momentarily blinded her, and as her vision adjusted, she took in the breathtaking sight before her.

The massive hall was beautifully decorated with balloons, fairy lights, and shimmering ribbons cascading from the ceiling.

A large table stood in the center, holding a towering cake, adorned with delicate designs and candles flickering on top.

Mahima felt her breath hitch, a lump forming in her throat. Tears pooled in her eyes as she turned to see Amrita, Ananya, Divya, and Ishika rushing toward her.

"You guys!" she whispered, her voice breaking with emotion.

They engulfed her in a warm, tight hug, laughter and excitement buzzing around them.

"Did you really think we'd let your birthday pass without making it special?" Ananya teased, pulling away.

Mahima wiped a stray tear and chuckled. "I just... I didn’t expect this."

"Exactly! That’s the whole point of a surprise," Divya smirked.

Mahira stood a few steps behind, shifting slightly, her gaze uncertain.

Ishika had insisted she come, and now she was here, watching the scene unfold.

"Come on, cut the cake already!" Amrita urged, nudging Mahima toward the table.

With everyone cheering, Mahima took a deep breath, closed her eyes for a brief moment, and made a silent wish before blowing out the candles.

The room erupted in applause as she sliced through the cake.

"First bite for me!" Ananya declared, leaning in.

"In your dreams," Amrita smirked, snatching a piece and feeding it to Mahima first.

Everyone followed suit, taking turns feeding her. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they celebrated, the warmth of the moment settling deep into Mahima’s heart.

Then came the gifts.

Amrita grinned as she handed over a small box. "Open it."

Mahima’s eyes widened as she unwrapped it and found a sleek, gleaming race car model inside.

"Amrita!" Her face lit up like a child’s. "You remembered!"

"Of course, I did. You never shut up about how much you wanted one," Amrita smirked.

Mahima hugged her tightly. "This is the best!"

Mahira hesitated before stepping forward. She handed over a beautifully wrapped bouquet of deep red roses.

"Happy birthday, Mahima," she said softly, offering a small smile.

Mahima took the bouquet, her fingers brushing against Mahira’s. For a moment, there was an awkward silence before Mahima gave her a nod. "Thank you, Mahira."

A flicker of something crossed Mahira’s eyes, but she simply returned the nod.

As the celebration continued, Mahira took a step back, watching from the sidelines.

The noise, the laughter, the overwhelming emotions—it was too much. She needed a moment.

Slipping away unnoticed, she made her way to the restroom.

The second she locked the door behind her, she let out a shaky breath.

She leaned against the cool marble counter, gripping its edge tightly. A tear trickled down her cheek before she quickly wiped it away.

"Not now," she whispered to herself.

Taking a deep breath, she composed herself, straightened her posture, and prepared to step back into the lively chaos outside, hiding the storm within her heart.

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As Mahira stepped out of the restroom, she immediately noticed something strange—the house was dark again. Her brows furrowed in confusion.

"What the—" she muttered under her breath, glancing around.

The lively noise from before had vanished, replaced by an eerie silence.

Her heart pounded slightly faster as she reached for her phone and switched on the torch. The dim glow illuminated the empty room in front of her.

"Hello?" she called out, her voice hesitant.

No answer.

Her footsteps echoed in the silence as she moved cautiously, her eyes darting around.

Just moments ago, the palace had been filled with laughter, and now it felt deserted. Her grip tightened around her phone.

And then—

From another room, a soft glow emerged, followed by the familiar tune of voices singing in unison—

"Happy Birthday to you..."

Mahira froze, her breath hitching.

Aarush appeared first, stepping into the light, holding a cake carefully in his hands.

Behind him, the others followed, their faces glowing with warmth as they continued singing.

The flickering candles cast a soft golden hue over their expressions, reflecting the sincerity in their eyes.

She stood there, rooted in place, her chest tightening.

Tears threatened to spill over, blurring her vision. She blinked rapidly, her lips parting slightly, but no words came out.

They came closer, forming a half-circle in front of her. The warmth, the affection—it was overwhelming.

Aarush smiled at her, his voice gentle. "You didn’t think I'd just let your birthday go, did you?"

Mahira's lips trembled. She wanted to say something, anything—but the lump in her throat made it impossible.

The lights flickered back on, illuminating the grand hall once again. Everyone cheered and clapped as they gathered around Mahira, guiding her toward the cake Aarush was holding.

“Come on, Mahira! Cut it already!” Ananya urged, grinning.

With slightly shaky hands, Mahira took the knife, hesitating for a second before slicing through the cake.

Cheers and applause filled the air as she fed the first bite to Mahima, who stood beside her, smiling brightly.

“I still can’t believe we both have the same birthday!” Mahima said excitedly, hugging Mahira from the side.

Mahira smiled, a rare softness crossing her face. “Neither can I.”

Everyone laughed and continued celebrating, the energy in the room lively once again.

But amidst the chaos, when no one was looking, Aarush smirked mischievously. Before Mahira could react, he swiped a bit of cake onto her cheek.

“Happy birthday, Mahira,” he said, his tone teasing yet filled with warmth.

Mahira gasped, eyes wide. “Aarush Sir!” She reached up to wipe the frosting away, but he just chuckled, clearly enjoying her reaction.

She huffed, but before she could retaliate, he suddenly took a step closer.

His expression changed—no longer playful, but sincere. Slowly, he pulled out a single red rose from behind his back and held it out to her.

Mahira blinked, stunned.

"Be my girlfriend," he said, his voice steady, his eyes locked onto hers.

Her breath caught in her throat. For a moment, she simply stared at him, trying to process what he had just said. And then—

“What? No!” she blurted out, shaking her head.

Aarush frowned but didn’t move away. “Why not?”

Mahira took a step back, crossing her arms. “Because... you wouldn’t like me.”

Aarush scoffed. “Says who?”

“Me,” she replied firmly. “You don’t know what you’re asking for, Aarush Sir.”

He chuckled, taking another step forward. “I know exactly what I’m asking for, Mahira.”

She shook her head again, refusing to meet his eyes. “You think you do. But you don’t know me—who I really am.”

Aarush exhaled, watching her carefully. “Mahira, I know enough. And what I don’t know, I want to learn. You think I wouldn’t like you, but have you ever considered that I already do?”

Her heart pounded. She wasn’t used to this—to someone being this persistent, this patient with her.

“I’ll only disappoint you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Aarush’s expression softened. “You won’t.”

“Yes, I will,” she insisted. “I’m not what you think I am. I’m not—”

“Mahira,” he interrupted, his voice steady, “I don’t need you to be anything else. I like you as you are. Every part of you.”

She swallowed hard, feeling her defenses crack, but she still shook her head. “I can’t.”

Aarush sighed, running a hand through his hair. He looked at her with so much certainty, as if he had already made up his mind.

“You’re stubborn,” he murmured, smirking slightly.

She raised an eyebrow. “So are you.”

He chuckled. “Yeah. And I’m not giving up.”

She sighed, feeling trapped yet strangely safe at the same time. He was relentless. And somewhere deep inside, she knew—if she kept saying no, he’d keep asking.

Taking a deep breath, she finally whispered, “Fine.”

Aarush’s eyes lit up instantly. “Really?”

She rolled her eyes, looking away. “Yes. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

He grinned, stepping closer, holding the rose up again. “I’ll take my chances.”

This time, she took the rose. And maybe—just maybe—she let a small smile slip through.

Aarush watched her for a moment, a smirk still playing on his lips. Then, reaching to his back, he pulled out a small, carefully wrapped gift. He extended it toward her, his gaze steady.

“This,” he said, “is my first gift to my girlfriend. And, of course, happy birthday again.”

Mahira hesitated before taking the box from his hands. She carefully unwrapped it, her fingers trembling slightly, and the moment she saw what was inside, she gasped.

Her eyes widened as she lifted a sleek, pink Polaroid camera from the box.

“How did you know?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her gaze flickering up to meet his.

Aarush grinned, leaning slightly toward her. “I saw it on a card one of the kids gave you,” he admitted.

“‘I hope you will get your dream Polaroid camera, Myra Didi.’” He mimicked the innocent handwriting, his expression amused yet fond.

Mahira stared at him, her heart caught between disbelief and something else—something warm, unfamiliar. She hadn’t even told him, yet he had noticed. He had remembered.

A slow, genuine smile spread across her lips. “You really are impossible,” she muttered.

Aarush chuckled. “And you’re really bad at accepting nice things.”

She shook her head, looking down at the camera again. Gently, she ran her fingers over it, feeling the weight of it in her hands.

It wasn’t just a gift—it was something she had wanted for so long, something she never expected to actually have.

Before she could say anything else, Mahima appeared beside her, grinning. “Enough of your cute moment, lovebirds. It’s time for the birthday picture!”

Everyone gathered around as Mahira switched on the camera. She looked through the viewfinder, framing the moment—the two birthday girls at the center, surrounded by friends who felt like family.

She pressed the button. The soft whir of the camera sounded, and a photo slid out.

As the image developed, Mahira stared at it—the frozen moment of joy, of warmth, of belonging.

For the first time in a long while, she didn’t feel out of place. She belonged here.

As the group picture developed, everyone laughed and cheered, admiring the memory captured on the Polaroid. Mahira held the photo in her hands, her gaze lingering on it for a moment before Mahima nudged her playfully.

"Now, one with just the two of us," Mahima said with a grin.

Mahira raised an eyebrow. “You just want more pictures, don’t you?”

Mahima chuckled. “Of course! This is special, Myra. How often do you find someone with the same birthday?”

Mahira rolled her eyes but smiled as she lifted the camera again. The two of them stood side by side, their expressions mirroring the happiness in their eyes. Just as Mahira clicked the button, Mahima threw an arm around her shoulder, pulling her into a half-hug.

The camera whirred, and another Polaroid slipped out. Mahira took it, watching as the image developed—two girls, standing together, smiles wide and real.

Mahima beamed at the picture. “Perfect!” she declared, taking it from Mahira’s hands and waving it in the air to let it dry.

Mahira, for once, didn’t argue. She just looked at the photo, at Mahima’s bright expression and her own rare, unguarded smile.

Maybe, just maybe, this birthday wasn’t so bad after all.

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His heart recognized her before his mind could even catch up.🫀✨💓