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hehehhehe hopefully soon di...
Part Five
Adorable small feet playfully swung about knocking against large muscular knees in pure enjoyment. Suraj was sitting in his father's lap watching the family's favorite TV serial. He smiled seeing his Chachu, Masi, Bua, Fufa, Dadi, Dada, and his cousins Tanu and Ketan all sitting around the living room watching TV together. His little heart swelled with a feeling of great happiness seeing this familial scene. He didn't know why but lately he felt the atmosphere around the family was changing. Everyone was a lot happier not that they weren't happy before. He couldn't quite understand why he felt this way but he did. Either way he was quite happy about this change. He glanced to his side and saw his father's pinky hooked delicately around his mother's pinky finger while their hands laid side by side. He grinned. His parents had become more affectionate in public. He still remembered when his Papa hugged Mama in front of everyone for the first time. Preet Chachu started to tease and ramble on about this and that making his Papa turn a dark shade of red. He couldn't believe a face could get that red. His Mama shyly looked away unable to meet anyone's gaze. He wanted to hug her right then and tell her not to worry. Preet Chachu and Kulraj Bua where always joking around.
Suraj smiled when he felt his father ruffle his hair. He snuggled himself into his father's warm chest even more. "It's time for bed." He immediately sat up and got up from the couch making his father chuckle. "That excited for bed?"
"Haan Papa because..."
"It's Story Time!" Heer squealed along with him. Prem let out a hearty laugh as he saw how his son held onto his mother's hand ready to go upstairs.
"Ready?" Heer inquired looking at Suraj. He nodded his head affirmatively and followed his mother up the stairs.
Prem wanted to accompany them but got delayed by Kiran who wanted to talk about some stocks they had invested in. Eventually he made his way upstairs towards his son's room. He beamed a bright smile as he heard the giggles coming from behind the door. He gingerly knocked on the door and waited to be invited in. He heard his son's chirpy voice answer, "Come in."
Prem walked through the door with a grin. "What story are we reading tonight?"
"We haven't started yet," Suraj replied.
"Haven't started yet?" Prem inquired arching his eyebrows. "What have you been doing then?"
"Taking pictures," Suraj answered and showed his mother's iPhone to him.
"I see," Prem replied with a smile. He scrolled through the photos noting the silly faces they were making when the pictures were captured. "Very cute," smirking as he looked at his wife. "So, story time?"
"Papa you're staying?" Suraj asked.
"Am I not invited?" Prem replied.
"Of course you are. Where does Papa want to sit?" Heer inquired.
Suraj moved to the side of his bed and motioned to his father that he could sit with him. Prem grinned and stated, "I think we should all get comfortable." He crawled into bed and lifted his son up moving him to the right of him. Prem's back was to the wall and he was resting on his elbow. Suraj scooted over so his mother could get in with them. Suraj was sandwiched comfortably between the two.
"What story are we having Mama read us? Hmmm...I know Where The Wild Things Are...Suraj's favorite," Prem teased.
"No," his son replied shaking his head.
"It's not your favorite?"
"It is but not today. I think today Mama should read Green Eggs and Ham," Suraj suggested.
"Green Eggs and Ham? Why?"
"Papa, that is your favorite," Suraj answered. He turned towards his mother and gave an eager look. "You'll read Green Eggs and Ham?"
"Haan, of course Beta. We'll read Papa's favorite story."
The family of three settled in and began their journey into the magical and wonderful world of Dr. Seuss. They giggled and laughed as Sam I Am tried to convince the main character to eat green eggs and ham. As Heer turned the last page and read the finally line of the story Suraj yawned sleepily and curled to his side ready for bed. Prem and Heer exchanged smiles and delicately left the bed. Prem tucked his son in pulling the covers up to his chest and brushed his hand through his hair. "Good night Papa. I love you."
"Good night Suraj. I love you too," Prem replied warmly and placed a kiss on his forehead.
"Good night Mama. I love you," Suraj said.
"I love you too," Heer answered and placed a kiss on his cheek. She grinned and handed him Duffy his new toy bear he had gotten at Disney World. "Sweet dreams."
"Duffy says goodnight too," Suraj said making his bear wave.
"Goodnight Duffy," Prem and Heer waved as they turned the lights off and carefully closed the bedroom door.
Heer smiled knowingly as she felt her husband slip his hands around her waist the minute their bedroom door was closed. "Prem..."
"Hmmm?" he mumbled as he nuzzled her cheek. He spread light kisses against her ear and then delved inward towards her neck. He loved the way she smelled; a sweet scent of fresh berries and vanilla.
"What do you think you are doing?"
"What do you think I'm doing?" Prem inquired as he began placing light kiss along her neck. "It's time for bed. You put Suraj to sleep. Now, it's Papa's turn for a bed time story."
Heer chortled at his comment and slithered her hand back around his nape. "You already received a bed time story. Green Eggs and Ham."
"I want two stories."
Heer closed her eyes and breathed deeply enjoying her husband's affections. Eventually she turned and met his eager lips. Prem's muscular arms tighten around her body and his hands gripped her lower back pushing her into him. She felt herself go weak kneed as they continued to kiss. She heard her husband murmur a protest as she pulled back breaking their make out session. "Heer..." he replied in a raspy voice.
She gave a tender smile and caressed his cheek with her hand. "What makes you think you deserve another bed time story from me?"
"I went to my doctor's appointment," Prem replied beaming a cheesy smile. "Don't I deserve an award?" Heer simply laughed at his facial expression making him grin even more. "I love the way you laugh you know that?"
"Wow, you're laying it on thick tonight," Heer mused. "But thank you for the compliment. So you went to the doctor's office today but how long did it take you to finally go? Hmmm? You canceled a couple of appointments. It's been about three months hasn't it? What award?"
"Well, I had projects for the hotel going on I couldn't make some of those appointments," Prem defended. A pouty expression formed on his face making Heer smirk. "Please Heer. Other than that I've been a very good boy. Doesn't that count for something?"
"A good boy?" Heer chuckled as she playfully curled her fingers in his hair on the back of his head. Prem rested his hands around her waist gently swaying them from side to side. They both had mirthful smiles on their faces. It was strange how quickly their relationship had progressed in three months. The barriers that had been between them were now gone. It was replaced with a feeling of openness and comfort with each other.
"You know I have been. By the way have I told you how beautiful you looked today?" Prem asked.
"Beautiful? Yesterday I was gorgeous," Heer teased.
"You're beautiful and gorgeous and pretty and cute every single day," Prem quickly replied. "How's that?" wiggling his eyebrows up and down making her giggle.
She gently caressed his cheek and then leaned forward sealing her lips with his. Magic. It was that unmistakable spark that would flare igniting thousands tingling sensations through their bodies whenever they touched. They lived for this moment and thrived on this feeling. Their intimate moments were ones they cherished. Heer moaned into Prem's mouth as his hand gently slide down and cupped her bottom. She pressed herself against his hard frame letting him know she was in a willing mood. Prem slowly broke the kiss and swept her off her feet cradling her in his arms. He gazed into her almond shaped eyes seeing in them the same desire he was feeling in his heart.
Prem carefully laid Heer down on the bed and hovered over her. She reached up and cupped his neck bringing him downward so they could kiss. Prem adjusted himself so he could lay with her comfortably without putting too much of his weight and pressure on her. As the kissing intensified and their breaths mingled heatedly there was a sudden loud knock on their bedroom door. Prem groaned at the intrusion and purposely pressed his mouth even harder against his wife's hoping she would ignore whoever it was at their door. Unfortunately she turned her head to the side and placed her hands on his chest trying to push him back. "Prem..."
"They'll go away soon," he replied as he bent down trying to kiss her neck.
"Prem, you know that won't happen. They are at the door," Heer replied. "We have to answer it. What will they think?"
"That we are sleeping," Prem grumbled.
The loud knock continued but this time it was accompanied by a voice, "Bhaiii...let her go nah, just need to ask her something."
Heer gave her husband a dirty look and wiggled her way out of his embrace. Prem sighed in defeat and collapsed onto the bed with a pout. Heer smoothed and adjusted her attire making sure she was presentable before she answered the door. "Kul Di," Heer greeted.
Kulraj had a teasing smile on her face. Her eyes shifted over towards the bed to see her brother sitting with his legs crossed grumbling. "He's in a very grumpy mood. Do make sure to cheer him up later." Heer's cheeks went warm and she gave a shy smile. Kulraj suppressed her smirk and inquired, "I was wondering if you had a chance to call those venues to check on rental prices?"
"Oh no, I haven't had the chance. I'll call them tomorrow. I'm so sorry. It's been a busy week at work," Heer replied.
"No-no, actually don't worry about it. The committee has decided to do a picnic at the park. Sara's uncle works for the Parks and Recreation board and he happened to mention to her that Bayside Park allows you to rent out a portion of the park to do events. So she called the park up and got this really good deal. You should see the brochure it's gorgeous."
"Really?" Heer replied extremely excited.
"You really need to see it," Kulraj replied motioning her hand for her to follow her.
"I never even thought about a park. Where is Bayside Park?" Heer inquired as she stepped out of the bedroom to go with her sister-in-law.
Prem groaned and fell backwards onto the bed knowing full well that his wife would be gone for a while. He stared up at the ceiling and sighed. "Guess I should get ready for bed. God knows when she'll be back."
*************************************************************
Heer opened the door to the bedroom and saw through the dimly lit room that her husband was sleeping. He had left the bathroom light on and kept the door slightly ajar so the room wouldn't be in total darkness when she eventually returned. She gave a sad smile. He was so thoughtful to leave a light on for her even after abandoning him to go talk to his sister for over an hour. She really did want to spend some quality time with him but some things got in the way tonight. Heer crept silently into the room and carefully closed the door behind her. She picked up her pajamas in the dresser and then went to the bathroom to get ready for bed.
A few minutes later Heer came out feeling refreshed. She walked towards the bed and lifted the covers up sliding inside. She could see Prem's back and the way his white undershirt hugged his board shoulders. Instantly she felt this need to reach out and cuddle with him. She loved it when they cuddled in bed together. No words could describe the feeling of having their bodies so close, their hands lazily caressing each other, and listening to their heartbeats sync in perfect rhythm. Heer inched her way closer and slipped her hand around his waist moving it up towards his chest. She rested her head on his pillow. She felt him gently stir making her smile. She decided to be bold and started to softly nibbled his earlobe. She needed to apologize for leaving him.
Prem smiled sleepily at his wife's affections. He gripped her hand and brought it up to his lips to place a tender kiss. "Sorry Prem." He breathed deeply and turned over so he could face her. He gingerly caressed her cheek and shook his head. His eyes closed as their lips met in a sweet kiss. They adjusted themselves getting into a comfortable position so they could fully enjoy this moment they were sharing.
"So, you girls have everything set for this party?" Prem asked when the kiss naturally broke.
"We got the place now. We still need to decide on the food and decorations," Heer replied. "We were thinking finger foods since it is a picnic. But then that could get sort of messy."
"You're going to be pretty busy the next coming months," Prem mused.
"Yes, I suppose so." Sighing, "I'm sorry."
"Why are you saying sorry?"
"I know I won't be able to give you all of my attention," Heer answered with a tone of guilt.
Prem shook his head and delicately caressed her cheek. "I'll survive." His eyebrows suddenly furrowed and he alarming asked, "You're not sleeping on the couch are you?"
"What? Why would I do that?" Heer inquired.
"All the late night hours of planning...coming into the bedroom when I'm already asleep'"
"Don't be silly," Heer answered.
"Okay good, you're still staying right here by my side in bed," Prem said. "As long as I can hug you in my sleep I'll be fine." Heer giggled as he tightened his arms around her and snuggled his head in the crook of her neck. Prem's eyes widened when he felt her hands slowly inching his cotton shirt up. He titled his head back and gave her a pensive look.
"Do you want me? Do you need me? Wanna love me?" Heer sang making him beam a bright smile and shake his head in agreement to her words. (Song reference is Right Now from the movie Housefull 2…click here to listen: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLcTbFP4YaE) "Aaja baby mere naal. Right now now...Right now now..." Heer continued giving him a sly wink. She giggled as he hovered over her and began placing soft kisses along her ear.
"Do you want me?" Prem sang back.
"Yes, right..." Heer teasingly answered.
"Do you need me?"
"Of course..." Heer replied
"Wanna love me?"
"C'mon," Heer challenged and helped him take his shirt off. Prem hungrily captured her lips and sunk into her body. Heer melted at his touch letting everything go. She just wanted to feel him, breath with him, and become one with him. Prem followed where he was being led wanting nothing more than to satisfy her requests. It made him feel good when he could elicit such pleasures for her.
Clothes soon laid scattered on the floor as a loving mound formed underneath the maroon bed sheet. Time seemed to stand still as two souls caressed and intertwined reaching for the ultimate harmonious connection. It wasn't until the wee hours of the early morning were hearts sated and desires filled. Prem breathed steadily as he slowly caught his breath back into pace. He grinned at the way Heer was looking at him. Her cheeks still had a faint blush and her hair was damp from all the heat in the room. He gingerly moved a few strands of her hair away from her face tucking them carefully behind her ear. His thumb then grazed her cheek in a soft continuous motion. The room was peaceful and calm. He gazed at her face and then blinked in sudden revelation at how deeply in love he was with her.
It was peculiar how despite moving forward in their relationship neither one of them had mentioned the word Love. They respected each other, cared for each other, and considered each other friends. They had agreed to move forward and complete this relation of husband and wife. They exercised all rights and found themselves enjoying the time spent together. They were learning from each other, supporting each other, and now living once more. The pain of the past was becoming distant and the positivity of the future was leading them forward. When she was happy he was happy, if she was sad he was sad, if she was in pain he was in pain, if she was worried he was worried, if she was upset he was upset as well. What else could this be called? This was Love. He was in Love with his wife. It was plainly obvious yet he had not told her using that word.
Prem felt his heart beat happily as his grin widened. He wanted to tell her, no needed to tell her. He couldn't contain this sudden joy brimming over in him. He felt like shouting this declaration. As his mouth began to slowly form, he suddenly stopped taking note of the situation. His words needed to sound pure and from the heart. He didn't want to give the impression that he was simply saying it because they had just slept together. This feeling was beyond the carnal pleasures they shared together. She was the hope to his future and the light in the darkest of days. She was becoming everything to him. He hoped she had at least half of a fraction of these feelings for him. He could be happy with that. He didn't want to be greedy.
"What's the matter Prem?" Heer inquired. She had seen it in his eyes that he wanted to say something to her.
"Nothing," he replied and continued caressing her cheek. "We should probably get some sleep." He blinked sleepily causing Heer to nod her head in agreement. She gave him a sweet kiss before turning around getting comfortable on her side. Prem scooted closer spooning her from behind. He delicately draped his hand around her waist and snuggled himself onto her pillow. He bent his head down and softly kissed her shoulder thinking about how much he loved her and how he should confess these words to her.
Suraj ran around the playground with great glee. He followed some children as they ran up the steps of the playhouse jungle gym set making their way to the slide. He giggled as he went down the slide and landed firmly with his feet on the warm sand. He then followed them as they ran in a zigzag motion weaving their way around the fireman poles and the monkey bars laughing loudly. The group soon stopped in their tracks when they heard a commanding voice, "No running." Suraj recognized the voice immediately and turned with apprehensive eyes. His dark black hair hung low on his forehead and his hands were at his side.
Prem stood with his arms crossed in front of his chest with a disapproving expression on his face. "If you run you will end up hitting someone. There are other people playing you have to be careful. You can skip or hop." The children nodded their heads and started to slowly skip away.
"Sorry Papa," Suraj replied.
"I just want you to be careful," Prem answered giving him a slight grin letting him know that he wasn't upset with him. "Go and play."
"Okay Papa," Suraj nodded and carefully skipped away.
"Hey PB!" Prem turn around and saw his brother walking towards him. He had his usual mischievous smirk on his face. "Preet," Prem greeted.
"Why don't you go and relax a bit? I'll watch Suraj at the playground." He motioned with his head towards the side and whispered, "Bhabhi's over there with Meher." Prem shifted his gaze towards the direction Preet had instructed him to look and saw his wife laughing with her younger sister. "Go PB," Preet urged as he patted his shoulder. "Good Luck."
"Thanks Preet," Prem nodded and started making his way towards the sisters.
The Junejas and Maans had decided to go on a family picnic at the park. Everyone was enjoying themselves doing various activities. The in-laws were watching over the food and playing carrom. Kulraj and her family were playing a game of frisbee. Suraj was happily playing at the playground and currently being watched by his uncle Preet. Prem smiled and waved at his sister-in-law. Meher returned a knowing smile and teased Heer, "Prem Juji is coming. I'll leave you two alone."
"Meher? Where are you going?" Heer inquired as her sister walked away. "Meher? You don't have to leave."
Prem watched as Meher quickly walked past him giving him a thumbs up. He was caught off guard for a second but then realized that his brother must have said something to her. Prem nervously brushed his hand through his hair as he approached his wife. "Hey," he greeted.
"Suraj having fun?" Heer asked.
"Yea, he's having a blast at the playground," Prem replied. "Preet's watching him right now. So, you want to go take a walk?"
"Sure," Heer answered and linked her arm around his as they started moving away towards the other side of the park. She felt his fingers curl comfortably between the spaces of her fingers and the gentle but loving pressure of his hand holding hers. Her lips curled upward into a smile and she impulsively placed a kiss on his cheek. Seeing the expression on her husband's face, she let out a giggle. "Is that a blush I see Mr. Juneja?"
Prem grinned, "You just surprised me Mrs. Juneja that's all." Heer simply smiled and continued walking with him. Eventually they made their way down to a grand fountain. Many of the benches were taken so they found a big shady tree to stand underneath and hide from the sun.
"Today was really nice," Heer said.
"Yeah, this picnic idea of yours was great," Prem replied.
"What are you talking about? You're the one who suggested it."
"You're the one who asked Bauji and Ma about going to the park," Prem said.
"It was because of your idea," Heer replied giving him a playful push.
Heer saw him look down at their hands and sighed, "I know it feels weird doesn't it? I called the jeweler to see if they had finished cleaning my rings and they told me that it wouldn't be until next week. I thought I would have gotten them back by now. I mean it's just a wedding band and an engagement ring. They aren't replacing a stone or resizing it. I'm not quite sure why they are taking so long."
"Maybe they have a back up on orders or something," Prem replied. "You know first come first serve type of ticketing system."
"Yea, I guess," Heer said rather sadly.
Prem lifted her hand up and delicately rubbed his thumb along her ring finger. "Or maybe someone already picked them up."
Heer stared at him wondering what he meant by that comment. "Prem?"
He let go of her hand and stuck his hand in his pocket pulling out her engagement ring. "I know when I gave this to you it represented something different. It was uniting two families together. We were doing it to make our parents happy. But now two years and three months have passed and things have changed. You're an amazing person Heer. They way you came into my family and took care of everybody: Bauji, Ma, Kulraj, Kiran, Ketan, Tanu, Preet, Suraj, and me..and I know it was tough. Neither one of us was really ready for this but you didn't complain you fulfilled your duty as the daughter-in-law of the house. You're the most selfless person I've ever known. I sometimes wished I had met you before and gotten to know you better." He gave a shy grin but continued talking, "You know there was a point in my life that I thought everything had just stopped. I was still alive yet not really living. I didn't think I could go out and smile again and appreciate things...the simply things like taking a walk, seeing the sun rise, eating a good meal at a restaurant. But over time you helped me not be afraid anymore. It was okay to step back out there...to share my feelings and appreciate things again. And this ring," holding it up higher, "means so much more now than it did before. This ring is my promise to you for the future. If you'll accept me I'll do everything to make sure you live a fulfilled and happy life."
"Prem," Heer replied as she hugged him. "Of course I do."
He pulled back a little to gaze into her hazel eyes and said, "I want to tell you something...and you don't have to say anything if you don't want to. No pressure." Heer looked at him with confusion unsure why he was talking like this all of a sudden. Prem took a deep breath and continued, "I know I haven't said this to you even though I have been feeling this for quite some time. I've probably expressed it in other ways but never verbally said it. And I probably should have said this sooner considering everything..." pausing in frustration, "sorry...I'm rambling...I should get to the point shouldn't I? I...I love you. I love you Heer." Prem watched with awe as her hazel eyes began to sparkle and then brim with tears.
"I love you too Prem," Heer replied with great emotion in her voice. She hugged him tightly again as she felt her heart beat happily with joy.
"You do?" he stupidly inquired.
"What do you mean I do?" Heer replied sniffling back her tears. "I love you. I've been in love with you for some time now. I just didn't know if you felt the same way."
Prem gave a relived chuckle. "I was thinking the same thing. Took me long enough didn't it? Two years and three months?"
"We can't count the first year...we were just getting to know each other."
"You know I use to cruse God wondering why he did certain things but I understand now. I'm so thankful to have you in my life," Prem said. "You and I...we met for a reason."
Heer melted at his words and gave him a tender kiss. "I'm thankful too." She then smirked and inquired, "Can I have my ring now?" Prem moved his hand away when she reached down to take the ring back. "Prem..."
"Not so fast," sticking his hand into his pocket, "I'm not finished yet. You're suppose to put the wedding band on first...it's suppose to sit close to the heart."
"I'm sorry," Heer replied with an apologetic look.
Prem grinned seeing how cute her face had become. Her lips were slightly pouty and her eyes displayed a child-like innocence. He took out the wedding band out and stated, "This is my vow to love you, support you, protect you, and cherish you until my dying day. I won't allow anything to happen to you. If I should fail then I will gladly take any punishment God bestows upon me. No matter what punishment he gives me the pain would never equal to the pain that I feel when I see you cry."
Heer's eyes moistened and she shook her head cupping his face, "Prem please don't say that."
"It's the truth. I can't bear to see you in pain." Heer stood there stunned at the depth of his words. His love for her was pure and true.
"I don't know what I did to deserve you," Heer replied. She hugged him again gripping on to his back feeling so secure in his arms. The emotions of this moment were so overwhelming. Her tears started to fall and she buried her head into the crook of his neck.
Prem could hear her softly crying making him twinge uncomfortably. "Heer, don't cry."
"These are happy tears Prem."
"I still don't like hearing you cry," he replied as he gently wiped away her tears with the pads of his thumb. "No tears," he whispered and softly kissed her forehead before he hugged her again.
Heer laid her face to the side and tucked her head underneath his chin. The warmth he was giving off was so intoxicating. She curled herself in his embrace placing her hand on his shoulder and murmured, "I love you."
Prem grinned at hearing her words and rubbed her back in a soothing manner. "So Mrs. Juneja is wild and crazy for her husband?"
Heer chuckled at his comment and replied, "Mr. Junjea drives Mrs. Juneja crazy sometimes with his wild antics."
"Hey," Prem pouted.
Heer laughed and then asked, "So, can I have my engagement and wedding ring back?"
"You know we are having a moment here and you want to ruin it by asking for the rings?"
"I'm not ruining the moment. We can still have it. I would prefer to have my rings back on my finger where they belong." She smiled mischievously as a thought crossed her mind. "You won't believe how many guys hit on me because I didn't have my rings on." She suppressed her laugh seeing the way her husband's face suddenly contorted at the mention of other men interested in her.
Prem knew she was kidding but he couldn't help the twinge of jealousy flaring in his veins. She was his wife and his alone. No other man should be looking at her in that manner. He wouldn't stand for it. He was brought out of his brooding manner when he felt the tender touch of her hand on his cheek. "I'm only kidding you know that right? I only belong to you like you belong to me." He nodded his head in understanding.
Prem took the wedding band and slipped it back on to her ring finger. "I, Prem Juneja take you, Heer, to be my wife, my constant friend, my faithful partner, and my love from this day forward. Underneath this oak tree and in the presence of God, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live."
Heer smiled and kissed him lovingly. Prem shook his head as he wiped the tears from her eyes. "Crying again?"
"I can't help it. That was the sweetest thing to say. How can I not get emotional about it?"
Prem gently hugged her and grinned. He then slipped on her engagement ring completing the set. "So, how does it feel to have them back?"
"Wonderful," Heer gushed as she looked at the sparkling diamonds on the smooth and shiny platinum bands. She playfully kissed his nose making him smile. "We should probably walk back soon. The family is going to be wondering where we are."
"No they won't," Prem replied as he grabbed her waist preventing her from walking away.
Heer giggled as she was pulled back towards him. "We have to go."
"No," Prem replied childishly. "A few more minutes."
"Eh, you're just like a kid."
"Am not!" Prem exclaimed.
Heer elbowed him forcing him to let go. She snickered and began moving away. Prem furrowed his eyebrows and started to chase after her. Heer laughed as she got caught from behind. His arms were wrapped tightly around her as he lifted her up into the air. "Where do you think you're going?" Heer continued to giggle unable to say anything. Prem eventually put her down and put his arm around her shoulder. "Okay, let's go back." Heer smiled and slipped her arm around his waist and began walking with him.
Deep mocha brown eyes flexed in glee at the sight that laid before them. Steady little legs lunged forward in a frantic pace trying to reach their ultimate destination. Her tiny chubby cheeks puffed as her mouth formed into a pout when a hand clasped onto her arm preventing her from going any further. "Chahat you can't run out like that." Pigtails swung as the three year old turned to look at the person who had stopped her. "Mickey, Su-raj Bhai-ya," she pointed in defense.
Suraj grinned as he went down on his knees to speak to his little sister. "See all these people in line?" Chahat moved her head up and down in confirmation. "It's not nice to cut in line. They have been waiting their turn. We should too. Okay?"
"Okay Su-raj Bhai-ya."
Suraj took her hand in his and gently led her to the back of the line where their parents were waiting. Chahat wore a gloomy expression on her face knowing that she was in trouble. Her eyes lifted from the ground and met the disappointing gaze of her parents, "Sorry Mama. Sorry Papa."
"Chahat, please don't run away like that again," Heer sighed. "Mama, was really worried."
"We should wait in line just like everyone else," Prem said looking at his daughter. "It's important to wait our turn."
Chahat put her hands to her ears and held them in great apologize. "Sorrie...I won't do it again. I will wait with Mama, Papa, and Bhai-ya."
Her parents melted at her words and welcomed her into the line. The family of four happily stood together waiting their turn to see the great cartoon mouse. It was everyone's first time at the Disney theme parks except for Suraj. He had been before three years ago with his aunt, uncle, and his cousins. He was elated that he was able to finally return as he had such a good time the last time he had visited. But this trip was much more special because he was with his family. He was sharing his joys with his father, mother, and his little sister and they in turn where sharing their joys with him. He loved each and every one of them so much.
Twenty minutes later Chahat had the widest grin ever on her face. She pranced merrily about holding onto her father's hand. "Papa, picture...can I see the picture again?"
"Sure Beta," Prem replied and picked her up into his arms. He turned on the camera and adjusted it to the viewing mode so she could scroll the pictures at her leisure. "Hold onto the camera. Don't drop it."
"Okay Papa."
"Give me your hand," Prem instructed. He put his daughter's hand through the camera strap and tied a knot to give her more support should the camera slip from her hands.
Suraj walked next to his mother holding a bag that contained two stuffed toy souvenirs; one for him and the other for his sister. He turned when he heard his name being called by his mother. "Suraj, give me Mickey and Minnie I'll put it on the back of the stroller." He nodded his head and gave the bag to her.
"Mama?"
"Hmmm?" Heer replied as she carefully placed the bag in a cargo compartment on the back of the stroller.
"Can we come to Disney World again next Spring Break?"
Heer glanced over to Prem to gauge his reaction but he was too busy with Chahat and the camera that he had no response to give her. "Well, Papa and I will have to talk about it."
"Please Mama? It's so much fun here. It would be awesome if we can come again," Suraj pleaded.
Heer smiled at the expression on his face but continued with her firm stance, "Your Papa and I will discuss it. Beside what if next year you want to go someplace else? You may not want to come to Disney World."
"No, I would never want to go anywhere else," Suraj answered affirmatively. "Disney World is the happiest place on Earth. Why would I want to go anywhere else?"
Heer chortled at her son's comment amused he was using one of the advertising slogans Disney World had coined. "We'll see, okay?"
"Okay Mama," Suraj sighed.
She lovingly ruffed his hair and then placed her hand on his shoulder. "So who wants a Mickey Mouse ice cream bar?"
"Mickey ice cream?" Chahat squealed in delight. "I want one! Mama, I want one."
"I want one too," Suraj replied.
"Okay, that's two and plus me that's three. Papa?" Heer asked looking at her husband.
"I could go for something cool right now too," Prem grinned. "So four it is. I think I saw one over by the Tea Cups ride," leading his family over to that area of the theme park. It wasn't long before they located the vendor and purchased their Mickey Mouse ice cream bars. The happy family then found a place to sit down and enjoy their cool sweet treat together.
Prem collapsed onto the living room couch and let out a tired but accomplished sigh. "Kids are tucked into their beds sleeping."
Heer turned off the kitchen faucet and dried her hands on a towel, "Dishes are all done," she announced. She walked into the living room and sat down next to her husband. She curled her tired feet up onto the couch and leaned herself onto Prem's shoulder.
"Tired?" Prem inquired.
"Extremely," Heer replied.
"Thank you for making dinner," Prem said as he lifted his arm up so his wife could comfortably rest her head on his chest. "We could have gone out to eat."
"I know but we bought those groceries for a reason. It wasn't so bad. All I made was macaroni and cheese."
"But you still made dinner. Thank you," Prem replied and placed a loving kiss on side of her head. "Ready for bed?"
"Yes," Heer answered. She placed her hand on his chest when she felt him start to get up. "Wait. Can we just sit here and rest for a few minutes?"
"Okay," Prem replied. He leaned back onto the couch and let his head fall back. "Tomorrow we are going to Animal Kingdom. Chahat is going to love seeing all those animals."
"You know she is going to ask for a stuffed elephant," Heer grinned. "She is just crazy about elephants."
"I wonder where she gets it from?" Prem smirked giving a teasing look at his wife. "Just like mother just like daughter." Heer nodded her head and then curled herself even more onto her husband. She lifted her hand and started to pat his chest in a soft rhythmic beat. Prem yawned and then grinned, "You're making me even more sleepily."
"Sorry," Heer replied as she stopped her actions.
"Don't stop. I like it," Prem smiled looking at his wife. Heer grinned and closed the distance between them giving him a sweet and tender kiss. "This has been a really fun vacation," Prem said after their lips separated. "I think we should go to Disney World every year. Make it an annual Juneja family vacation trip, what do you think?" His eyebrows arched when he heard his wife giggling. "What's so funny?"
"Your son said the same thing. Suraj wants to make Disney World an annual Spring Break trip," Heer replied.
"Great minds think alike," Prem proudly said.
"Well, it is a nice thought but I'm not sure about next year...it might be another three years from now," Heer replied.
"What do you mean another three years from now? You have some plans I don't know about? Is there some big conference you have to go to? You know I always set aside time for our family so you don't have to worry about me."
Heer shook her head, "No, there isn't a big conference I have to go to in the next three years."
"Then why can't we go next year?" Prem inquired confusedly. Heer took his hand into hers and smiled shyly as she placed his hand on her stomach. Prem's eyes widened at her action and he looked into her eyes to confirm what he thought she was trying to say to him. Heer gave a nod making him break out into a huge grin. "Heer," he murmured as he hugged her tightly. When they broke apart he furrowed his eyebrows and asked, "When?"
"About a week before we left for this trip," Heer answered. She saw his eyes flex and a concern expression fall on his face. "Don't worry Prem. I'm fine."
"Fine? All this walking and the heat...why didn't you tell me sooner? " Prem asked and then continued mumbling, "We need to get you a wheelchair. Maybe we should end this trip earlier, sighing, "Probably should have stayed home."
"This is why," Heer replied. "I shouldn't have said anything to you until after we got home. I don't know why I told you now...I knew this would happen."
"Well, your health is important," Prem earnestly said. "I don't want you or the baby to be at risk."
Heer cupped his cheeks and gave him a loving look, "I'm fine Prem. You know how much Suraj and Chahat wanted to go to Disney World. Suraj has been waiting for such a long time for us to finally take a family trip together. And I didn't want to stop us from going again. Last time I was pregnant with Chahat. Anywaya, it isn't the first time I've been pregnant. I've been really careful and good. And besides exercise is good for me and I've been properly hydrating myself. And its March and Florida isn't so hot during this time of the year. The weather has been really pleasant. This would have been an entirely different story if this trip was in the summer."
"What about nausea? You were suffering a lot with Chahat," Prem replied with concern.
"It hasn't been so bad to tell you the truth. And I packed some Preggie Pop candy drops...I've only had to eat those a few times," Heer said.
"So, those are those cough drops you've been telling Suraj and Chahat about," Prem pondered.
"I had to tell them that otherwise they would have been bugging me for them thinking it was candy," Heer said.
Prem sighed and then placed his hands around her wrists and slowly pulled them down from his cheeks. He gently kissed each palm and said, "You know I love you so much. I don't want anything to happen to you especially if I can prevent it. We'll go to Animal Kingdom tomorrow but you have to tell me the minute you don't feel good, okay? And I'll be cooking dinner for the rest of the week while we are down here. I want you to rest properly."
Heer nodded her head, "Okay." She then gave a slight frown, "You're not mad at me are you?"
Prem shook his head. "How can I be mad when you just told me the best news ever? I'm going to be a Papa again."
Heer grinned relieved at his response. "Congratulations Papa Prem."
"Congratulations Mama Heer." Prem leaned forward and captured her lips to express his undying love for her. Heer smiled when the kiss naturally broke. "Thank you Heer. Thank you for coming into my life," caressing her cheek, "I'm so thankful to God for this second chance. You've made me so happy. You've taken care of Suraj and loved him so. You've blessed me with Chahat and now we have a second one on the way. I couldn't ask for anything more."
Heer gave a teary smile and gently shook her head, "No Prem thank you for loving me so much. I'm so lucky to have you and Suraj in my life. I love you and I can't see my life without you. You make me happy...really happy."
They shared another sweet kiss before Prem advised, "It's late. It's time for us to go to bed."
Heer's eyes widen when she was scooped up into his arms. "Prem..."
"You've had a long day. Don't argue with me." Heer didn't say anything further and rested her head on his shoulder. Prem carried her into their bed room and softly laid her down on the bed. The happy couple then crawled underneath the covers and cuddled together. Heer rested her head on her husband's chest listening to the steady rhythm of his heart beating and smiled. Prem tenderly kissed her forehead and whispered, "Goodnight Heer. Goodnight my Choti Heer...Papa loves you and can't wait to see you."
"What if she is actually a Chota Prem?" Heer chuckled.
"Nah, the baby will be a Choti Heer...just like my Chahat. I was right the first time," Prem proudly stated.
"But I want a Chota Prem," Heer pouted.
"Well, our next one will definitely be a girl but we can keep trying for one."
"Acha?" Heer giggled. "How many are we having?"
"Haan. You don't want to have more with me?"
Heer lifted her head and nodded, "Of course I want to have more with you." Prem smirked and then kissed his wife. "Okay, it's time for bed."
"Yes-yes...we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow and you and the baby need rest. Goodnight."
"Goodnight Prem. Sleep well." Heer closed her eyes and snuggled herself comfortably on his chest.
"Sweet dreams," he replied and wrapped his arms around her lovingly.
It wasn't long before the couple fell into a peaceful slumber dreaming about the precious gift they had been blessed with again. Everything felt right like it was meant to be. God had brought them together when they needed someone the most. They had shared each other's pain and found a new hope within one another to live again and to love again.
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