Six years later
Garry and Seerat were now parents to a vibrant four-year-old daughter named Mahi, whose laughter filled their home with joy and warmth. They were expecting baby number 2. Veer had tied the knot with Sahiba's younger sister, Keerat, two years ago, finding his own happiness in the embrace of love and companionship. Kiara had embarked on a new chapter of her life in Delhi, having married her college sweetheart, Rohit, and begun a journey of love and partnership. Ekam was engaged to Sammy, a family friend's son, marking the promise of a future filled with shared dreams and aspirations.
But amidst the celebrations and milestones, Angad remained haunted by the ghosts of his past, drowning himself in work to escape the echoes of regret that lingered in the corridors of his heart. The time he spent at home was dedicated to Mahi, the little ray of sunshine who brought a semblance of peace to his restless soul.
Angad's life had changed dramatically since the day Sahiba left. The emptiness of his home mirrored the void in his heart, and the silence was a constant reminder of his regrets. He often found himself wondering about his unborn childāwhether it was a boy or a girl, what they looked like, and what their laughter might sound like. The not knowing gnawed at him, a silent torment that kept him awake at night.
Every day, Angad prayed to Babaji, seeking forgiveness for his past mistakes. He pleaded for a chance to meet his child, unaware that he was actually yearning for two little ones he had never seen. The thought of them filled him with a mixture of sorrow and hope, and he clung to the belief that one day, fate might bring them together.
Recognizing the need to confront his demons, Angad began attending anger therapy sessions. It was a difficult step, one he had resisted for a long time, but he soon realized how much he needed it. The therapy sessions were challenging, forcing him to confront the roots of his anger and the pain he had inflicted on Sahiba. He learned to understand the triggers of his rage and the importance of managing his emotions constructively.
During one particularly intense session, Angad's therapist helped him uncover the deep-seated insecurities and pressures that had fueled his anger. The expectations of his family, the weight of his responsibilities as the heir, and the constant need to live up to Daarji's ideal of a "man's world" had all contributed to his volatile behavior. This realization was both painful and liberating, allowing him to see his actions in a new light and understand the true extent of the harm he had caused.
As the months turned into years, Angad continued to work on himself, determined to become a better person. He poured his energy into his business, but his heart was never far from thoughts of Sahiba and their child. He found solace in his interactions with Mahi, Garry and Seerat's daughter, whose innocence and joy reminded him of what he had lost. Spending time with her gave him a glimpse of the father he could have been, and he cherished these moments as small but significant steps toward redemption.
Despite his progress, the ache of not knowing his child remained. He often found himself standing at the window, gazing into the distance, wondering if Sahiba and their child were happy and safe. He respected her decision to leave, even if it broke his heart, and he hoped that one day, she might find it in her heart to forgive him.
Angad's journey of self-discovery was far from over, but he faced each day with renewed determination. He had learned to channel his pain into personal growth, striving to be the kind of person who would make his child proud. And though he didn't know if he would ever get the chance to meet them, he held onto the hope that one day, he might be granted the opportunity to make amends and show his children the love and respect they deserved.
The memory of Sahiba's departure and the letter she left behind served as a constant reminder of the consequences of his actions. It fueled his resolve to change and to ensure that if he ever had the chance to be a part of their lives, he would be the father they needed and the man Sahiba had once hoped he could be.
Yet, despite the passage of time, Angad couldn't shake the memory of that fateful day, the day Sahiba disappeared from his life without a trace.
Flashback to that painful morning, when Angad awoke to find Sahiba gone, her presence a mere echo in the empty spaces of their home. Panic surged through him as he searched for her, only to discover that all traces of her existence had vanished along with her belongings. It was then that he found the letter, a silent testament to her pain and sorrow, her words cutting through his heart like a knife.
"To Angad,
When you find this letter, I will be gone for good. I always tried to overlook how you treated me, but your behavior last night gave me a glimpse of the darker days of the start of our marriage. All I wanted to tell you yesterday was that I am pregnant after many months of trying, but you pushed me away and said that you have already had enough on your plate. Your behavior scared me, and I cannot have my baby being raised where your behavior is constantly changing or where its mother is not valued. I wish you the best in your life. If you ever get married again, please don't treat another lady how you treated me."
Angad's hands trembled as he read her words, the weight of his regret crashing down upon him like a tidal wave. He had failed her, failed to see her pain, failed to cherish her love. And now, she was gone, leaving behind nothing but memories and unanswered questions.
Despite his best efforts, Angad could never find Sahiba, no matter how far and wide he searched. Seerat and Keerat remained tight-lipped about her whereabouts, their silence a wall he could never breach. And as the years passed, Sahiba became a distant memory, a ghost from his past that haunted his every waking moment.
But amidst the shadows of his regret, Angad vowed to carry Sahiba's words with him, a reminder of the love he had lost and the woman he had failed to cherish. And as he watched Mahi play, her laughter a melody that soothed his troubled soul, he prayed for forgiveness and redemption, knowing that some wounds could never fully heal.
As Sahiba stood in the dimly lit room, her heart heavy with the weight of her decision, she knew that she couldn't stay any longer. Angad's anger had reared its ugly head once again, and she couldn't bear the thought of subjecting herself or her unborn child to the toxicity of his behavior any longer.
With trembling hands, Sahiba began to gather her belongings, her movements swift and purposeful. She knew that Angad was in no state to notice her leaving, lost in the oblivion of alcohol-induced slumber. This was her chance to escape, to break free from the chains that bound her to a life of misery and pain.
Tears streamed down Sahiba's cheeks as she packed her bag, her heart torn between the love she still held for Angad and the desperate need to protect herself and her baby. She couldn't bear to imagine bringing her child into a world where their mother was constantly belittled and undervalued.
As she made her way to the door, Sahiba's resolve wavered, a wave of fear and uncertainty crashing over her. But then, she remembered the envelope, the ticket to a new beginning, a chance to chase her dreams and find happiness once more. With renewed determination, she slipped the envelope into her bag, the promise of a better tomorrow giving her the strength to take that first step towards freedom.
Outside the house, Seerat and Keerat waited anxiously at the train station, their hearts heavy with worry for their sister. When Sahiba finally arrived, her eyes red from tears and her face etched with exhaustion, they enveloped her in a tight embrace, offering silent comfort and support.
"Sahiba, are you sure about this?" Seerat asked, her voice filled with concern. "Leaving like this, it's a big step."
Sahiba nodded, her voice choked with emotion. "I have to do this, Seerat Di. For my baby, for myself. I can't stay in that house any longer, not with Angad's anger consuming us both."
Keerat squeezed her hand gently, her eyes brimming with tears. "We understand, Sahiba. We're here for you, every step of the way."
Tears flowed freely as Sahiba broke down in her sisters' arms, the weight of her decision lifting slightly with their unwavering support. In that moment, surrounded by love and understanding, she knew that she was making the right choice, no matter how difficult it may be.
She boarded the train, their hearts heavy with sorrow but hopeful for the future that lay ahead. And as the train pulled away from the station, carrying Sahiba towards a new beginning.
As Sahiba settled into the apartment provided by Surinder in Delhi, she found solace in the unexpected bond that formed between them. Surinder wasn't just a mentor or employer; she was a kindred spirit who understood the depths of Sahiba's pain in a way few others could.
tThe next afternoon, as they sat together over tea, Sahiba found the courage to confide in Surinder about her abusive marriage. To her surprise, Surinder listened with compassion and empathy, her own eyes reflecting the echoes of pain and trauma that Sahiba knew all too well.
"I understand, Sahiba," Surinder said softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "I too have walked in your shoes, endured the scars of an abusive marriage."
Sahiba's eyes widened in surprise, a flicker of understanding dawning within her. Here was someone who knew firsthand the anguish of living in the shadows of fear and violence, someone who could offer not just sympathy, but genuine understanding and support.
In the days that followed, Surinder became more than just a mentor; she became a confidante and friend, guiding Sahiba through the turbulent waters of healing and recovery with wisdom and grace.
When Sahiba finally shared the truth of her pregnancy with Surinder, expecting judgment or condemnation, she was met with nothing but unwavering support and solidarity.
"I will stand by you, Sahiba," Surinder said, her voice filled with determination. "No matter what challenges lie ahead, you will never have to face them alone."
And true to her word, Surinder remained by Sahiba's side throughout the visa process for Australia, offering guidance, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on when the weight of the past threatened to overwhelm her.
As Sahiba bid farewell to Delhi and embarked on her journey to Australia, she carried with her not just the promise of a new beginning, but the comforting knowledge that she had found a true ally in Surinder, a fellow survivor who understood the depths of her pain and the resilience of her spirit.
When the day finally arrived for Sahiba to bid farewell to Delhi and embark on her journey to Australia, her heart was heavy with mixed emotions. Surinder had become not just a mentor, but a confidante and friend, and Sahiba was grateful for her unwavering support every step of the way.
But it was her family's visit before her departure that truly touched Sahiba's heart. As she embraced her Tayji, Paapji, Mummy, and sisters one last time, tears flowed freely, mingling with the bittersweet ache of farewell.
"Sahiba, beta, we will miss you so much," Mummy whispered, her voice choked with emotion.
Sahiba nodded, unable to find the words to express the depth of her gratitude and love. "I will miss you all too," she managed to say, her voice trembling with emotion.
Before they parted ways, Sahiba made them promise, a promise that weighed heavy on her heart yet was necessary for her peace of mind.
"Promise me you won't tell Angad where I am," she said, her eyes pleading with them to understand.
Her family exchanged solemn looks, their expressions mirroring her own inner turmoil. But in the end, they nodded, their love for Sahiba outweighing their own desires.
"We promise, Sahiba," Tayji said, her voice firm with resolve. "We will keep your secret safe."
With one final embrace, Sahiba boarded the plane bound for Australia, her heart heavy with the weight of goodbye yet light with the promise of a new beginning. As the plane soared into the endless blue sky, she closed her eyes and whispered a silent prayer for courage, strength, and the hope of a better tomorrow.
As Sahiba settled into Australia, everything felt new and unfamiliarāthe people, the environment, the language. It was a daunting yet exhilarating fresh start. The bustling city streets, the unfamiliar sounds of a different language, and the diverse faces around her were all part of the new world she had chosen for herself and her unborn children.
Surinder, her boss and mentor, was a pillar of strength during this transition. Understanding the importance of familial support, especially during such a critical period, Surinder extended a heartfelt invitation to Sahibaās Tayji to come and stay with her in Australia. When Tayji arrived, it felt like a piece of home had come with her, providing Sahiba with comfort and familiarity in a foreign land.
As Sahibaās pregnancy progressed, so did her career. She poured her heart and soul into her art, finding solace and purpose in her work. The news that she was expecting twins filled her with an overwhelming sense of joy and anticipation. Her babies, whom she lovingly named Akir and Akira, became the center of her universe even before their birth.
Surinder, being like a mother figure, provided not only professional guidance but also personal support. She shared her own experiences of overcoming adversity, offering wisdom and encouragement that bolstered Sahibaās resolve. With Tayji by her side, Sahiba felt a renewed sense of strength and determination.
The day Akir and Akira were born was a moment of profound transformation. Holding her twins for the first time, Sahiba felt a surge of love and a fierce determination to build a successful future for them. She vowed to become a renowned artist, to create a life that her children could be proud of. The tiny hands grasping her fingers were a reminder of the precious lives she was responsible for, and she promised herself that she would give them a life filled with love, security, and inspiration.
Balancing motherhood with her burgeoning career was challenging, but Sahiba thrived on the love and support of her family and Surinder. Her art began to reflect the depth of her experiences and emotions, resonating with audiences far and wide. Exhibitions of her work drew critical acclaim, and her reputation as a talented artist grew steadily.
Every day, as she painted, Sahiba thought of Akir and Akira. She envisioned the future she was creating for them, one brushstroke at a time. The sacrifices, the sleepless nights, and the moments of self-doubt were all worth it when she saw the pride in her childrenās eyes as they grew older.
In Australia, Sahiba found not just a new beginning but a place where she could heal, grow, and flourish. With the unwavering support of Surinder, the love of her Tayji, and the inspiration drawn from her children, she transformed her pain into beauty, her struggles into strength. Sahibaās journey was a testament to her resilience, and she knew that no matter the challenges ahead, she would continue to rise, creating a legacy of love and art for Akir and Akira to cherish.
Brar Mansion
Angad was immersed in his work, typing away on his laptop, when he heard a knock on the door. Looking up, he was surprised to see Seerat and Keerat standing at the threshold. Their expressions were stern, and the tension in the air was palpable.
"Seerat, Keerat," Angad greeted, trying to mask his surprise with a polite nod. "What brings you here?"
Seerat stepped forward, her eyes cold and unyielding. "We need to talk to you, Angad," she said, her voice laced with an edge of bitterness. "It's about Sahiba."
Angad's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Sahiba's name. He hadn't heard anything about her in years, and the sudden confrontation left him feeling unsettled. "What about her?" he asked cautiously.
Keerat, standing beside her sister, handed Angad a CD. "Watch this," she said bluntly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You owe it to her, and to us, to see what's on it."
Angad took the CD, his hands trembling slightly. He could feel the weight of their gaze, their resentment towards him for how he had treated their sister. "Alright," he murmured, turning to his laptop and inserting the CD.
As the video began to play, the screen flickered to life with Sahiba's face. Angad's breath caught in his throat as he saw her, the woman he had driven away, now staring back at him from the screen.
"Angad," Sahiba's voice echoed through the room, steady yet filled with a mix of emotions. "I cannot forget what you did to me. The pain and the hurt you caused will always be a part of me. But I want you to know that despite everything, I gave birth to twins."
The screen shifted to show images of two beautiful children, a boy and a girl, their innocent faces filled with joy and wonder. Angad's heart pounded in his chest as he took in their features, the way their eyes sparkled with life.
"Akir Singh Brar and Akira Kaur Brar," Sahiba continued, her voice softening as she spoke their names. "Both age 5, birthday 7th May 2019."
The video showed moments from their livesāAkir and Akira taking their first steps, blowing out birthday candles, playing at the park, and laughing together. Each image pierced Angad's heart, a mixture of overwhelming joy and deep sorrow washing over him.
"They are the light of my life," Sahiba's voice narrated over the images. "I want you to see what you missed, what your actions cost you. I hope one day you can find it in yourself to change, truly change, and become a better person. For them, if not for me."
The screen transitioned to Sahiba sitting in a bright room, her expression calm but resolute. "Angad, I need you to understand that while I want you to see our children, this doesn't change anything between us. I'm bringing Akir and Akira to India. They have always asked about their father, and I want them to meet you. They deserve to know who you are, and you deserve to know them."
She paused, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and determination. "I've told them that you're busy with work but that you love them a lot. They believe you care for them, and I hope you can live up to their expectations."
The screen shifted one last time to show Akir and Akira, their faces lighting up with excitement. "We love you, Papa," they said in unison, their voices filled with pure joy. "We're coming! Can't wait to meet you!"
As the video ended, the screen went dark, leaving Angad in stunned silence. He felt a lump in his throat, tears welling up in his eyes as the reality of what he had lost hit him with full force. The images of his children, their innocent faces, their smilesāit was all too much to bear.
Seerat and Keerat watched him, their expressions unrelenting. "You never deserved her," Seerat said, her voice breaking the heavy silence. "But those children, they deserve to know who their father is."
Keerat added, her voice softer but still firm, "We hope you realize the gravity of what you've done. Sahiba Di learnt to live again, for the sake of her children. It's time you do the same, but with a conscience."
Angad nodded, unable to find the words to respond. His mind was reeling from the revelation, the images of his children etched into his memory. He knew in that moment that he had to continue his journey of redemption, not just for himself but for Akir and Akira. They were his children, his legacy, and he would do whatever it took to become a man worthy of being their father.
As Seerat and Keerat turned to leave, Angad called out, his voice thick with emotion, "Thank you. For showing me this. For giving me a glimpse of them."
The sisters paused, exchanging a glance before nodding slightly. Without another word, they left the room, leaving Angad alone with his thoughts and the lingering images of the family he had lost but now had a renewed hope of one day being a part of. The anticipation of meeting his children filled him with a mixture of anxiety and determination, knowing that this was his chance to make things right and to finally start being the father they deserved.
Angad sat back in his chair, the weight of his past actions heavy on his shoulders. He felt a deep ache in his heart, thinking about all the moments he had missed, the laughter and the tears. The regret was overwhelming, but alongside it was a flicker of hope. A chance to meet his children, to be a part of their lives, was more than he had ever dared to dream. He vowed to himself that he would make the most of this opportunity, that he would become the father Akir and Akira needed.
As he thought of Sahiba, his heart ached with sorrow and regret. He knew that he could never undo the past, but he could strive to be better, for their sake. He hoped that one day, they might be able to forgive him, even if he could never forgive himself.
As Seerat and Keerat left the room, they noticed Inder and Manveer standing at the doorstep. Their expressions were a mix of shock, sorrow, and understanding. They had heard everything.
Seerat paused, looking at Manveer with a stern yet empathetic gaze. "Your son needs you now more than ever," she said quietly. "He has a long road ahead if he wants to mend the pieces of this broken family."
Keerat added, her voice soft but firm, "Please support him. He has a chance to change and be there for his children. Donāt let him waste it."
Inder nodded, his face lined with regret. "We will. Thank you for showing him what he needed to see."
Manveer's eyes were filled with tears. "We're so sorry for everything Sahiba had to endure. We'll do everything we can to help Angad become the father those children deserve."
Seerat and Keerat exchanged a glance, their stern expressions softening slightly. "It's all we can hope for," Seerat replied. "Take care of him. And make sure he doesn't let this chance slip away."
With that, the sisters turned and walked away, leaving Inder and Manveer standing at the door, their hearts heavy with the weight of the truth they had just witnessed.
Inside the room, Angad was oblivious to his parents' presence. He sat back in his chair, staring at the screen, his emotions in turmoil. He hit play again, watching the video from the beginning.
As Sahibaās face appeared on the screen once more, her words pierced through his heart anew. Every image of Akir and Akira felt like a dagger of both joy and pain, reminding him of what he had missed and what he now had the chance to reclaim.
He watched as Sahiba spoke about their children, her voice steady but filled with the pain of their past. He saw the moments of his childrenās lives that he had missedātheir first steps, their birthdays, their laughter and joy.
Tears streamed down Angad's face as he replayed the video over and over, absorbing every detail. Each repetition etched their faces deeper into his memory, their voices resonating in his mind. He watched as Akir and Akira said, "We love you, Papa. We're coming! Can't wait to meet you!" Their innocent, loving words broke him and healed him all at once.
Inder and Manveer watched from the doorway, their hearts aching for their son. They saw the raw pain and regret on his face, the tears that wouldnāt stop flowing. They knew this was a turning point for Angadāa chance for him to truly change, to become the man and father he needed to be.
Manveer stepped into the room, her voice gentle but firm. "Angad, weāre here for you. Whatever you need, weāll support you."
Inder nodded, placing a hand on Angad's shoulder. "Weāll help you every step of the way, son. It's time to make things right."
Angad looked up at his parents, his eyes red and filled with a mix of determination and sorrow. "I need to be better. For them. For Akir and Akira. I can't let them down."
Manveer smiled through her tears. "And you won't. We believe in you."
With his parents' support, Angad felt a glimmer of hope. He knew the road ahead would be challenging, but he was ready to face it. For his children. For Akir and Akira. And with every replay of the video, he felt his resolve strengthen, determined to become the father they deserved and to earn their love and trust.
Australia
Sahiba had come a long way since leaving her past behind in India. In Australia, she had found her true calling as a freelance artist, her talent shining brightly in the international art scene. With each stroke of her brush, she poured her heart and soul into her creations, weaving stories of resilience, hope, and love.
Surinder Ji, or Suri Ma as Sahiba lovingly called her, had played a pivotal role in Sahiba's journey to success. Not only had she provided Sahiba with a job and a platform to showcase her art, but she had also been a mentor, a guide, and a source of unwavering support. Suri Ma had recognized Sahiba's potential from the very beginning, nurturing her talent and encouraging her to dream big. Together, they had forged a bond that went beyond mentorshipāa bond of trust, respect, and mutual admiration.
With Suri Ma's guidance, Sahiba had honed her skills and expanded her horizons, working independently for clients across the globe. Her artwork adorned galleries, exhibitions, and private collections, each piece a testament to her passion and dedication. Through her art, Sahiba found a voiceāa voice that spoke of her journey, her struggles, and her triumphs.
Meanwhile, Sahiba's Tayji had been by her side every step of the way, helping to raise Akir and Akira with love and care. Together, they had formed a strong support system, creating a nurturing environment for the twins to thrive in. Tayji's wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love had shaped Akir and Akira into kind-hearted, resilient individuals, just like their mother.
Back in India, Sahiba's parents and sister's watched with pride as their daughter and sister flourished in her newfound independence. They marveled at her strength, her resilience, and her unwavering determination to chase her dreams. Despite the distance, their bond remained unbreakable, strengthened by love and admiration.
As Sahiba's career blossomed and she found financial stability, she made sure to share her success with her parents. Every year, she would send them a ticket to come visit her and the twins in Australia, cherishing the precious moments they spent together as a family. For Sahiba, these visits were a reminder of her roots, her heritage, and the unconditional love that had guided her every step of the way.
Sahiba's annual visits from her parents served not only as a reunion for the family but also as a cherished opportunity for her parents to bond with their beloved grandchildren, Akir and Akira. For the twins, their grandparents were a source of warmth, wisdom, and endless stories from the homeland they had never known.Sahiba's parents doted on Akir and Akira, showering them with love, affection, and homemade treats that carried the flavors of home.
Through hard work, perseverance, and the support of her loved ones, Sahiba had transformed her life into a masterpieceāa testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the unwavering belief in oneself. And as she looked towards the future, she knew that the best was yet to come, for her and her precious family.
Sahiba House Australia
As Sahiba packed the children's last-minute things, Surinder Ji, or Suri Maa as Sahiba fondly called her, entered the room. She watched Sahiba with a knowing gaze, her eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and concern.
"Sahiba, how are you feeling?" Suri Maa asked gently, her voice soft but probing. "What made you decide to bring Akir and Akira to meet their father?"
Sahiba paused, her hands momentarily still as she considered Suri Maa's question. She took a deep breath before answering, her voice tinged with a mixture of sadness and determination.
"I've spent years trying to forget the pain of my marriage, trying to move on and build a new life for myself and the children," Sahiba began, her words measured yet filled with emotion. "But despite everything, I realized that I couldn't deny Akir and Akira the chance to know their father. No matter what happened between Angad and me, he is still a part of their lives, a part of their story."
Suri Maa listened intently, her expression thoughtful as she absorbed Sahiba's words. She could sense the depth of Sahiba's emotions, the turmoil and conflict that lay beneath her calm exterior.
"And what about you, Sahiba?" Suri Maa asked gently. "How do you feel about seeing Angad again, after all these years?"
Sahiba's gaze faltered for a moment before she met Suri Maa's eyes, her own filled with a mixture of pain and longing.
"I... I don't know," Sahiba admitted quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Part of me still carries the scars of our past, the hurt and the betrayal. But another part of me... can't help but wonder if there's still a glimmer of hope, a chance for healing and closure."
Suri Maa reached out and gently squeezed Sahiba's hand, offering her silent support and understanding. In that moment, she realized something profoundāthat despite the pain and the heartache Sahiba had endured, there was a part of her that still held onto a flicker of love for Angad, a love that she had been unable to forget or let go of.
As Sahiba continued to pack, lost in her thoughts, Suri Maa watched her with newfound insight. She knew that Sahiba's journey was far from over, that there were still wounds to heal and truths to uncover. But in the depths of Sahiba's heart, amidst the pain and the scars, there was also a loveāa love that refused to be extinguished, a love that had the power to transform and heal, if only given the chance.
To be continued...
Edited by Simiyy - 6 months ago
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