Manik walked downstairs washing his face as he gave a small smile to Nandini, who returned one for him. She showed her hands to him, while he kept his hands with her as he settled next to her.

Manik where have you been all day. Don't tell me you were in the hospital, from yesterday. Were you?? Khushi asked him with worry. While Manik looked at Ruhi then Nandini, who passed secret thumbs up, it was a sign that they will keep it secret. And he knows it. As both mother and daughter have in their blood.

Oh! Yeah, I was in the hospital I had some surgeries lined up. So I was late. He said without looking at her eyes. He doesn't lie, seeing in someone's eye. He hates to lie.

You badly need to work on your sleep idiot, you look exhausted. She commented as she threw  towel over his face, he pouted at her as he shrugged it.

Yeah, lack of sleep maybe. But I'm sure I can sleep better tonight. He said looking at Nandini, who passed a knowing smile to him.

Well, stop that staring session of yours. She slapped him, while he gave her his required attention. Never piss Khushi, he knows it.

Yes, my all ears for you. He said to her as they talked about their life. They never gave up on the thing, even if ASR forgets Manik, Khushi never forgets him. Because for her, he is a brother, who she needs take care of all time. He needs attention and care. Well, she gives him always.

##

Khana tyar hai. Neyonika shouted from the kitchen, while Manik laid Khushi into the dining room, where she smiled at him. She knew what gentlemen he was, and mostly she trusted him enough to treat him same, even knowing the truth. She knows something is wrong, something happened, which she is not aware of. But she also knows, Manik can't be the culprit at all. He can't be ever.

Ruhi, downstairs now. Ishitha yelled from dining table as everyone sat in their places, while Manik occupied last but not least chair, where two seats vacant either of the sides, while another side was full with Rhayzada couple and elder Malhotra's and Cabir. While Raman and Ishitha in head table.

Nandini came with dishes and set in the table as she sat next to Manik, holding his right hand, he smiled at her, but his smile got wider, when Ruhi, poked him to make her sit next to him, which he did gladly, where she kissed his cheeks in return.

Waise Manik?? Khushi asked him with a naughty smile looking at him and then his behind, while Manik looked her and behind him, he found no one. He looked ASR, he looked equally confused like him. 

What are you up to? Manik questioned as he snapped his head behind him, where there was a blast of party popper, which made Manik and everyone shiver, except Khushi, who was giggling.

Surprise!!

A girl, in 20's walked into the dining hall, where Manik opened his mouth in wide, but he collected himself as he ran to the girl, where Nandini was surprised importantly shocked, who the girl was, Was she Manik's ex-girlfriend? Well, do I need to say that she was jealous. Do I?

Where ASR, smiled looking at the girl as he walked to them, where Khushi already ran to the girl, where everyone looked in a daze, it was like some kind of a shock to them, where Ruhi pouted in confuse. Where for Ishitha and Raman it was bad day again.

Oh! my God, You girl should be kidding me, aren't you? Manik asked her with an excited smile, as he hugged her in a tight embrace, where she rocked him like a small kid, the way he likes.

Well, not at all. She gave her ever pleasing smile, as she waved a hi to Khushi and ASR, where she came forward to hug Khushi and gave a formal handshake to ASR, he is too reserved with touching the thing with anyone.

Li. I missed you so much. He jumped in happiness.

Lisa Mathews. A Very good friend of Manik. Have a crush on Manik even today. But a very good person from heart. Gynocologist by profession, who was Nandini's doctor, when she was pregnant with Ruhi. Wife of Daanish Mathews.

Ahem.. Ahem. I'm here too. A boy with blue eyes walked inside, with his hands in pocket, as he gave formal surprise wink to Manik. Where for Manik it is the surprising day.

Daan!!

Daanish Mathews. A childhood friend of Manik, Grandson of Thomas. Husband of Lisa Mathews. Well known neurologist of US. Like an elder brother to Manik. And much more to be added.

This must awesome day. Manik jumped on Derek, where he stumbled behind, but maintained his balance well to hold Manik. 

You are still kid Manik. Daan patted his back as he rocked in his arms, while others eyes went wide in shock. How come Manik knows Daan?? Is all thought. While Nandini cringed seeing her doctor again in the home. Why was he here? Mainly how do they know each other?

Daan. Ruhi shouted in happiness, while he waved a hi to her from distance.

Hello Ruhi. He broke the hug with Manik as he walked to Ruhi, who was ready to jump in his arms, while he lifted her in his arms effortlessly, while others looked them in shock, especially ASR and Khushi except for Nandini, who facepalmed her face, she was so gone by ASR. One side ASR and another side Daan, not a good combination to be put in a scene. Just like her combination of her elder brothers.

Hello Patient, How are you now? Daan asked her.

Well, At this moment not very good. She looked ASR, who was blazing fire against her. As she hugged him tightly, while he kissed her forehead lovingly.

I can see that. Daan said looking at ASR, who gave the sharp look of his anger, where Daan returned one back to him. They hated each too much to say, anyone.

How do you know Ruhi? Is the first question, Cabir asked Daan. While he kissed Ruhi's cheeks as he settled down on the coffee table, which was in front of me. He feels home finally.

I guess Nandini will answer this. Won't you? Daan had something in his voice. Nandini had already buried him in the ground in her mind. She will be screwed by ASR for this.

Hmm. Nandini tried to look above, but she was scared to lift her lashes also today. This made Manik frown. How does Ruhi know Daan?

Hmm. ke age bologi. Ya phir vahi atke rahi gi?? ASR shouted at her, while she flinched at his tone like Ruhi, where Manik made a bad face.

I tagged her along once when I went to the hospital for a checkup and they bonded really well. Nandini answered confidently, making ASR angry more.

And who gave you right to do that? ASR questioned her back. Now, this was getting Manik's nervous. How the bloody dare he say that to the mother of the child about the rights she had on her her own daughter? He was getting mad ASR for this.

I don't want anyone's permission to take her out. Did you hear me? Not even you. Nandini's firm and the authoritative tone was enough to shut ASR's mouth. Somethings can't be forgotten by heart even if your mind forgot it, that's what makes heart greater than the mind. where Daan's eye twinkled in joy. She gonna get her memory back, this is what he wants. The thing she forgot, was all he needed back in her system. He is working hard to get her memory, not to get revenge from any but to show her, what she had done to Manik, well, its top secret, he never shared this with any but his wife Lisa, who was so ready to join her hands, who saw Manik's misery in front of her.  All they wanted to make Nandini and Ishitha regret about the thing they have done to Manik. And what better than bringing back the memory she lost in her accident.

Everything went silent. So, as Manik. He looked Nandini in shock. Was she getting her memory back? If that is possible, that Nandini will ruin him again. she will ruin this present and future of his with his new Nandini, with whom he wanted to make everything perfect for them. If that old Nandini gets back, she will destroy that Manik, because she had either power of Making him or destroying him again. His life is all about what she chose for him. He gave his everything to her. Maybe it's his happiness or sorrow, which she chooses for him, it is his gift for life. She had the key of his life than any.

That's progressive. Daan answered with winning smirk. He gonna bring back her memory by hook or crook. He wants to teach a lesson to them for hurting an innocent soul, who is nowhere wrong. Where ASR's eyes went wide, he is back because he will get her memory back, this feared ASR.

Daan? Manik's questioning eyes had fear of death. If something went wrong this time, he will be dead forever. He made a decision of marrying her, with the hope he will live happily with her forgetting worst past. Giving chance to themselves once again. If it ruins again, he will rather die than seeing that Nandini again, who hates him to no end.

Everything will be fine, Manik. If not, I will make everything fine. Assurance in his voice, made Manik relax, if he promises, he will make it happen. That's Daan. That's what Manik learned from his friend. Never to break anyone's promise. And make that promise happen by hook or crook. Is what make them complete.

I trust you. Manik said like a kid, while Lisa hugged him sideways, giving assurance smile, he knows that something will happen. but he also knows, when Daan is here, nothing can go wrong. I mean no wrong. He will protect him no matter what. He will. He never left his side, not even a second, when he needed him.

How do you know, Daan? Suyyash and Raman asked in unison, while Ruhi started saying her little things to Daan, who was listening to her very attentively.

He is my childhood friend from California. Not to forget Thomas's grandson. Manik sais looking at ASR, who puffed in annoyance, when he heard 'Childhood friend'. ASR and Derek hated each other for only one thing. That is because they feel either of them snatched their bestie from them. But for Manik both are equal. 

Oh! wait I forgot to introduce them properly to you all. I know you all know them already but still, meet my friends. This is Dr. Daan Mathews and his wife Dr. Lisa Mathews. My childhood and college friends. Manik said to them. Where others just nodded their head not knowing what to say. It was a shock because they know these people from long but they were not aware of they being Manik's friend.

And you forgot to mention this Manik. Daan said as he walked in front of them.

He is the one, who asked me to treat Nandini. Manik wanted really bang Daan's head to some wall. His life is full complications, just because not everyone was aware of his relationship with Nandini or they didn't know Manik and Nandini had a story of their own in past. All they knew was Manik and Nandini know each other from past three or two years, where they met bearly each other. Or in childhood, which they spent only three months together.

What? Nandini looked Manik, who wanted to run away from here, but Ishitha somehow managed things in her control.

I asked Manik, to recommend some doctor, so he suggested Daan, Haina Manik? she asked him, while he gave a sharp glare to her, for lying so confidently in front of everyone, Yes he made Daan treat Nandini, not for any saying, but to make her okay. If she forgets him, that doesn't mean, he should forget her. 

Oh! But I'm very much aware of things, which happened that day. Mrs. Murthy. Daan's stern and never dare you to lie me look was enough to Ishitha, to sweat like hell. While Raman wanted ASR and Daan to be out of the home. They simply can't bear this two under the same roof. 

What's happening here? Nandini looked clueless at each one. 

You will be very much aware of things. Mrs. Malhotra, I make sure you will be. Daan is not going to back out from his decision no matter what, which sweated Murthy's like hell. While ASR looked Ishitha why the hell he is here look? where Ishitha shrugged it for a minute. She can't deal specimen's now.

Hmm. I guess we need to have dinner. Neyonika said looking awkward atmosphere as Ishitha was feeling short of words today. Her children's life would be ruined again is what she thought. While for Manik, he knew his life is ready with another throwback. How is he gonna deal with it? He doesn't know again. He feels uncertainty again in his life. But he accepted it wholeheartedly because it was his life, he needs to live with it no matter what till he dies.

That would be the best idea. Lisa said with a nervous smile, as all sat at the dining table. while Ruhi occupied the same place giving damn to ASR's stern look. She was born to stubborn parents, you can't help the kid anyway.

Manik smiled at her, something was peace in his life was his daughter anyway. Anyone can snatch her from him but no one can replace her in his mind and heart. No one. She will be a constant source of his happiness no matter what.

How is my baby doing? Manik whispered in her ears, while everyone was busy in eating. Ruhi smiled at him.

I'm doing good. She whispered back with glee. He smiled at her as he pulled her cheeks lightly, where she giggled at him, making him smile in glee too.

Thanks for the Thank you card. It was beautiful. Manik said to her, she gave an excited look to him, where her eyes twinkled in shine, the way Manik likes always. 

I made it for you. She accepted it, while he nodded his head as he stuffed some salads into his mouth with his left hand.

Neyonika and Cabir who were in front of Manik and Ruhi lifted their head hearing someone giggling when they saw it was Ruhi and Manik, they smiled at them but soon their smile faded as they saw both were eating in their left hand with the same style. Anyone who watches them closely can easily recognize them as daddy and his baby daughter by there inheritance, And not forget the mole of them, which was near to their lips and their dimples exactly at the point, whenever they smile. 

It was like someone removed their brain and stuffed some things in their brain, which they both couldn't afford to digest. They looked each other with shock while daddy and his daughter were usually gossiping things to each other in their own land.

Ruhi, right? Lisa asked her, where Manik and Ruhi immediately dipped into their respective plates as if they are eating from long. And not aware of each other. 

Yup. Ruhi mimicked Nandini's adorable annoyance look, where Manik pressed his lips because Ruhi was so like her mother, Manik accepts it heartily.

Which standard are you? Lisa asked her, where she stuffed chicken in her mouth.

I go to school. She said cutely, as she isn't aware of standards in school.

Kindergarten. Mrs. Mathews. ASR filled the information with a small and polite smile.

Oh! that's so good. So, Ruhi is a big girl? Lisa said with a smile.

I'm always a big girl. Ruhi said sternly, while Manik wanted to bang his head. She is like her mother. You can't change it no matter what.

Then you must know some rhymes. Will you tell us? Lisa asked sweetly, she loved kids a lot. She is one kid when she is with them. Clean heart girl in precise.

Okay. I will say my favorite one. Ruhi said proudly, as she stood on her stool, where Manik helped her, he knows this doll should be taken care of love and affection.

Yes, please. Everyone prompted her, while other two were too shocked to come out. It was like someone poured ice water on them. They need some air. This can't happen? Could this happen? How can it be possible? Is she really ASR's daughter? Is Manik cheating on Nandini? Did he abandon his own child? Did he stoop so low in his values? Did he not think of consequences? Did he not? How can he do this? So on and so forth.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. 

This four letters took away the breath of everyone. Especially Manik's because everyone's gaze went on him except Nandini, who was enjoying the show of Ruhi's with an unproud smile. She had bonded with a kid, which she is not able to figure out. But she loved Ruhi very much. Very very much, But why? it was more than the needed, being bua of her. Something in her made her love this kid as her own, where her heart always treated as her own kid, though she forgot her past in mind, heart and emotions never forgot to love her loved once. It maybe Manik or Ruhi. She loved them like she used to love them before. In fact, more than she thought about them as years rolled with them.

As she started singing Manik's past came running this how he used to sing for Nandini. His Twinkle. Whenever he wants to irritate her in their childhood, everyone knows this is how Manik used to sing for Nandini. Even when he meets Nandini years back in his college, he used to sing in the same style for her. Because it was their trademark, only he had right to tease her like that. The family knew it as they have seen same in childhood, as Manik and Nandini never went along in very childhood, but only Manik had copyrights to tease her, then after she never left anyone to rule her after he left. It was always him.

How I wonder what you are
Up above the world so high
Like a diamond in the sky
Twinkle, twinkle little star
How I wonder what you are

When the blazing sun is gone
When he nothing shines upon
Then you show your little light
Twinkle, twinkle, all the night
Twinkle, twinkle, little star
How I wonder what you are  

Ruhi, get down right now. Manik said sternly, while Ruhi got scared but she evidently jumped into his arms, which never happens with ASR also. everyone is aware of it. That was Manik's bond with Ruhi, unknowingly she knows, he will never hurt her no matter how angry he is. She trusts him enough to be in his arms in whatever situation it is.

What did you do? Manik whispered being nervous, while frows formed in his forehead, while for Neyonika and Cabir nothing was needed to be told, because the way she started her rhymes, they knew she was Manik's only daughter. They don't need DNA report for it too.

I sang rhymes, She said without being aware of things, Manik justed walked out without hearing anything from any with Ruhi in his arms, Where the air was completely awkward and anxious between each other. 

Who thought you that? Manik asked in a pure panic, he remembers, he never did this again in past five years. Because everything changed between him and Nandini forever. She was not his twinkle anymore, who used to love him. 

I learned it myself. She said proudly, for a minute Manik just looked at her with an aww. She had something like him.

You sang like me. He said to her with pure bliss. He didn't fear for what next in the moment, he cherished it for himself. Its rarest moment, where he thinks about himself. It was the rarest moment, he finds something worthy of his tears.

Really? That's sound wow! Ruhi added with a smile. Making Manik smile in the moment, as he kissed her cheeks.

Shouldn't I award my baby girl with a gift? Manik asked her, as he walked to the drawing room with her. while she nodded her head in yes. 

If you don't, it will be a pure sin because I made you happy. She added with her attitude making Manik laugh at her words, her choice of words, he should thank Nandini for that.

Hmm. This is for you.

Manik pressed pink box in her tiny hands, while he settled on the couch with her, where she gave an amazingly beautiful smile of her's to him, which added more into his store. As said he cherished the moment than being stuck in past or future.

She opened the box, as her eyes twinkled with joy as she rocked in Manik's arm in happiness, while he hugged her tightly. 

You remember it? she questioned him, as he bobbed his head. He can never forget whatever he promised his daughter, he can never.

Thanks, Manik. This is truly amazing.

He slides it into her little finger. He promised her ring and he not bringing one for her, not happening.

I loved it. she said loud as everyone walked to the hall with confusing.

Ruhi, how do you know that style? ASR was not worried, will be a lie. He was hell worried about his daughter, he doesn't want to lose her no matter what. Same was the case with Khushi but she was strong enough to trust Manik, unlike ASR.

Hmm. Manik taught me that. Ruhi lied making Manik startled by her answer, how easily she helped him. People would've asked him a hundred questions, but she helped him in a blink without a second thought. He sighed relief.

But I feel like I heard this before? Nandini asked with confusion, while Manik looked at her in the blank face, she doesn't remember things which he used to do for her, but today she forgot things. Importantly she forgot her Manik. Well, today at this moment he feels, she should never remember things, because she gonna hurt him again like past. Badly destroy an innocent boy in him, who didn't do any single mistake.

You will remember where you heard, I mean very sooner. Daan smirked in attitude, where he threw a bomb on Ishitha and then Manik, who looked pale at the moment. He doesn't want to go through same shit, same pain he delt again. It's better to leave her again if she becomes same Nandini. He doesn't want to get hurt where it had hurt him beyond.

That sounds perfect. Nandini admitted as she remembers, she screaming with tears holding someone's hand as if she was bearing world's pain in that moment, where someone was soothing her saying sweet words in her ears, giving her strength, that he will be there no matter what, he will protect her no matter what. That promise made her feel, she should remember that person, who saved her. She can't forget that man, she should not. Because she feels its sin to forget him, which she is already done easily. She forgot him.

That sounds horrible. ASR and Manik said unison, looking at Nandini, while they see each other. They had fear, one to lose his daughter other to lose his own life again. 

Whatever. She gave an unwanted shrug, this so happens with both of them, whenever it is about her past things, which she had forgotten. She knows this two don't want her to dig her past no matter what. Something was there this two aren't telling her, she knows it well. There was something she needs to know. There was something definitely.

You gonna help me, Daan? She asked Daan, where he gave his truthful smile, which is only preserved for his only his sister.

Of course, I will Nandu. He smiled genuinely, he never forgets to bring her to track this time. He won't let her break Manik's heart this time. No matter what. He won't let his sister being culprit like ASR did.

Thanks. She smiled at him. while Ishitha looked worried among others. Her kids are just born to be troublemakers.

##

Why do you want Nandini to get her memory back? Ishitha asked Daan, who was sipping a drink at the bar counter in Murthy's home.

Because I want to make everything right between Manik and Nandini, which you aren't doing as a mother. Daan answered rashly, while Ishitha breathed some air.

They are happy now. Aren't you seeing that? Ishitha asked looking at Manik and Nandini, who were teasing each other, sorry it was Nandini alone, Manik was trying to shut her dirty talks for a while.

Correction Mrs. Murthy. It's Nandini, not Manik. He is still stuck where your daughter as left him. Daan gritted his teeth. He knows Manik to well, to see whether he was happy or trying to be happy for other's sake.

Because he deserves it. Doesn't he? she snapped him back, where Daan's anger raised to the cloud.

Oh! really then why did you begged him to marry your daughter, when you were the one, who asked him to never show up again. Why? Just because for your daughter's happiness again? If you are so concern about your daughter's happiness, even I'm concerned about Manik's happiness. If they need to live happy and peaceful life, they need to clear the mess of their past, which apparently Nandini have forgotten. I will make everything proper for either of them. And if you don't want to be part of it, I don't care. I will make it happen without your help. Daan's answer was like a tight slap to Ishitha. Yes, she always did whatever it is better for kids forgetting what's right and what's wrong with others. How it hurt others, she kept it secondary. She was a mother before then anything to others.

What should I do? Ishitha asked meekly as she looked Manik, who looked lost looking at Ruhi, with longing, when she is playing with ASR and Cabir. She was the culprit to the scene indirectly. It should be Manik always. Keeping her kids above everyone, she forgot she kept away the father and daughter, who had always wished to bring up his daughter, but she gave in to her daughter's wish than seeing what mistake she was doing.

Just stay out of things for God's sake. And never give in to your kid's demand again, if they are wrong. Daan pushed her side as he walked out on her face, if she would've been little sensible, things would've been better for everyone. 

You won't call me mother again, Derek?? She asked him, while he stopped as he closed his eyes.

You wish, Mother. He walked out to meet Raman.

Well, nothing can be this misfortune to the mother than this moment. Both her son's were away from their own parents, and not ready to get surnames of their own family. One was Arnav Singh Rayzada other was Daanish Mathews. Huge mishap between Raman and Ishitha made Arnav and Daan feel void of family love. They got their deserved love in someone's home. For Arnav it was always Rayzada family(Raman's cousin), who gave him all love, while for Daan it was his grandpa, Thomas.(Manik's caretaker). 

Ishitha is the daughter of Thomas Mathews and Sneha Mathews. So, Ishitha is an Anglo Indian, while Daan is brought up by his Grandfather, Thomas. So, he chose to keep it Mathews instead of Murthy, same was a case of Arnav, they didn't want parents who forgot them, in their misunderstanding. They left the home in their teenage leaving most powerful tag one desired to have, which Nandini alone owns, Their only sister. Who they love but dare not to show her because they hate the fact their parents loved her more and gave whatever she asked for. Which always boys carved from Murthy's. Not that they hate her. They hate their parents for making them void of family, which they had. 

But Daan is more responsible than ASR when it comes to Nandini being the big brother of either of them. He makes sure she chooses right things for life unlike ASR, who lets her do whatever she wants even if it wrong. He never stops her, which Daan never let's happen. Three Murthy kids were different completely different from each other. But something was constant, they loved each other very much, but never showed to each other, because that was the weak point of each one.

##

Hey dad. Daan sat next to Raman, who looked pale seeing all kids at home. Something Murthy's can't digest all kids being at home, at the same time.

Hey. He answered with a sad smile.

You don't seem happy, seeing me and ASR under the same roof. Am I right? Daan is too much straightforward, he never holds his tongue. As if it never happens, as ASR threw a glare at him.

It's not like that. He tried to say a lie, which both sons caught it immediately. Getting back to home doesn't feel home at all to them anymore.

Well, we can see truth better in your eyes. ASR added. Raman nodded his head in disbelief.

Why didn't you showed up for Nandini's marriage? Raman asked Daan, who looked at him.

I had surgeries lined up. I couldn't make it up. I had informed mom about it. So, thought of seeing you all once. Daan said while he started talking with Khushi, who showed him wedding photos, he smiled at pictures, looking at his sister. He was really happy for her. he was the right person for her if you ask him. They were with people, whom they loved. 

That's why I hate doctors. Cabir said, who heard the conversation of Raman and Daan.

Nandini you better change your best friend. Daan warned Nandini again, Nutcase should be deleted from her life first. Is Daan's thought from the very beginning.

Daan, don't start again. Nandini said annoyingly. while Daan glared Cabir.

Stay within your limits. Jerk. Daan said loudly making Manik happy.

##

I should get going. Good nights guys. Manik said as clock strike midnight, where he had an endless talk with Lisa and Khushi as he knows both Murthy boys are too busy to dagger each other. And Manik Malhotra stays out of such things. He can't stand with strong headed people when they are fighting. He hates it.

I'm coming. Nandini tagged her arm to Manik as she bid bye to her family, while she walked back to their Mansion with him. where Manik chose to be silent. Many things were running through his mind. Brothers are back, And Nandini is gonna get her memory back, the thoughts only shivered him. He doesn't want to be there, where he has come out. He wants little peace, little assurance, little happiness. That's it. Was it too much to ask, he doesn't know?

Why are you so quiet today? Nandini asked him as they took staircase.

Nothing. Maybe I'm too tired. Well, totally true. as he opened the door of their room, while Nandini closed the door behind, as Manik fell on the bed directly. He was pretty exhausted from a week, he didn't take care of him all he did was travel where ever Nandini is there. He didn't want miss out a single chance to make her happy by his surprise visit. Because he always wanted to see her happy, as she was his happiness.

You should get some sleep I guess. You looked pale out. Nandini went to change as Manik crawled into sheets more. All he needs at the moment was to cover himself in dark, and never face the reality, which gonna come from here on to him. 

He knew he was going to get hurt and humiliate again, but he was ready to take chance as he promised himself to give his whole for this wedding. The wedding was just not promises of vows for him, which he made, he promised himself to give one chance to Nandini, if she needs him in her life, if she happens to get her memory back. 

That was uncertainty in his life.

He closed his eyes with a sigh, he was getting ready for tomorrow again, like years back, when Ruhi was in Nandini's womb. He was treated with all pain. He gulped all for his daughter, for whom he can bear anything. Any damn thing.

Where he slipped to sleep.

##

Run.. Run Manik. He shouted at himself as he ran in corridors of his college, where his eyes stuck with ticking clock as he dashed out top floor with a huff, with a sigh in relief that he finally climbed 5 floors of the building, where blonde gave him sexy smile, where he returned one back. As he pushed the door of his class from his back, as he winked at the blonde, who was just ogling at Greek God. That's fun for him.

Hello Mrs. Deaten. Manik winked at her flirty, while she gave a glare, for which he threw a flying kiss. Hearing a huff from the rest of girls in the class. Where his lecturer forgot to scold him for coming 55 minutes late, where he would be probably getting detention for same. But he was smart to play with girls mind. He had skills, for which girls could die.

Manik huffed and sat next to Lisa, who gave a beautiful smile of her's to him, which he returned back, while he was rewarded with a slap on his back from Daan, who gave sarcastic smile, for his late coming again. While Manik gave puppy face.

Done with class, the trio walked out, as he walked to the canteen.

Manik. Arnav called him loudly from behind, while Manik smiled at him, as he saw Khushi and he had a great time with each one. Daan came behind as five people walked to the cafeteria.

Guys, Nandini arahi hai. Arnav put a bomb to rest, while Manik looked him in cringe, he heard that name somewhere but didn't ask anything as he stuffed salad in his mouth, while others frowned at super diet freak as they stuffed junk food in their tummy.

What? Mom batha rahi thi. She is going to Europe, right? How come she gonna end up in California. When dad clearly doesn't like that idea? Daan was too shocked he knows one thing, that their dad doesn't want all three being together, the reason was either of them will be headlines, and headlines will be sister and brothers killed each other. He is so done with them.

Do you think he will say no to his daughter, Do you? Arnav snapped him back.

Point hai boss.Daan agreed.

Nandini means your sister. Right? Lisa questioned back Arnav, who nodded his head, while Daan and Arnav already looking Manik for a response because they knew why Nandini was coming to California, they knew Nandini's feelings for Manik from the very childhood, and then accept the fact, she loving him. But Manik has no idea about the same. He is too naive for love thing. And too innocent to trust love. For him, love meant something which is constant that makes you happy no matter how sad you are. It brings a smile to their mere name. That was his belief in love.

You mean Twinkle? Manik asked them with mischief smile. For him, Twinkle meant a girl, who has an attitude in her body more than her blood. Stubborn and attention should be her name than Nandini. And also a person, with whom he can be himself. A person, who accepted him the way he is. Unlike his parents, who wanted him to be like them, which he can never be. Neither she was his friend nor she was someone special to him but for him, she was someone called smile to him.

Oh! Twinkle and all?? Khushi tried to tease him, while he rolled his eyes. You can't blame him, he never tasted love or believed in one. He was waiting for the moment to happen. He was not desperate but still had the patience to wait for the moment.

She is like any other girl to me. Manik said what he felt, he never had alien feelings like any other lovesick puppy guys out there, he was completely away from that feeling. He was a happy man with bachelor tag next to him only.

Let's see. Daan said with a naughty smile, while ASR nodded his head. Manik nodded his head in disbelief as his pager made sound saying he needs to leave for an emergency with senior doctors, where he working as an intern.

Guys bye I will meet you when I meet you. Bye people. Manik hugged them as he ran outside, while others made there a way to the airport to pick up Nandini, who was going to land California in next hour, completely aware of the intention to get Manik in her life with her love, while for Manik it was anything but same. His life his friends. His hospital. His Thomas. Period.

He was not aware what happiness he gonna meet at the same time what disaster was waiting for him. He was completely unaware of life, which gonna turn up his whole life. He was never aware, that he will fall in love, or he will be questioned for his character one day. He never thought he will be the father of a daughter in next few months. It was like he blinked his eyes, happiness and grief hit him at cost of his living forever in next blink. He didn't know if love can make you. Love can equally destroy you. She taught him everything in the best way. She did. He learned it well.

##

Uff. I can die for your smile. He said to a blonde holding his hand above his heart, who he was flirting for a long time, where she blushed like any other girl. Getting into Manik Malhotra's attention needs beauty. If you had one, who will be treated with one treat definitely. 

Mr. Malhotra, aren't you getting late for your class? College principal cringed at Manik, who made a bad face, he never goes along with his principal. 

Yup going. Manik said as he winked at the girl.

Tonight dinner is my treat, babe. Blonde jumped in happiness thinking further plans of getting him in her bed, which is never going to happen. If Manik knows to play with girls mind, he equally knows to keep himself safe from them.

He walked to his class as usual not before giving a tight smile of annoyance to his principal, who he hates to no limit, where he banged at the girl. Where he frowned muttering not again, as he made her stand properly, who looks little angry, which of course he shrugged until he looked at her face, it looked beautiful, with whom he loved to go on date. But in next second he shrugged the thought. Girls come behind him, he never goes behind them. Period.

Are you fine, Ms? He enquired politely, he was a boy with the best values, thanks to his grandparents.

Yes. she stomped her legs, he shrugged it as he walked leaving the girl behind him. Who looked at him with open mouth. Attention was in her blood, it was like really the first time that someone didn't care or ogled at her beauty. It didn't hurt her ego will be a lie definitely. She was born to get attention from anyone. But she was not aware, who he was. What values he had in him, where She burned hole at his back as she saw him giving a sexy and flirty smile to any girl he meet in corridor. She looked herself from the top to bottom, she looked absolutely epitome of beauty than any girl he met. Then what's wrong with him. 

Was he gay?

But he looked straight?

Never mind Twinkle. Never mind. She muttered herself, as she turned her heels towards her class.

That was a very first face-off Manik Malhotra with Nandini Murthy, who weren't aware of each other. Where Manik gave damn to the beauty, he laid eyes on. where for Nandini it was the pure shock of life. She was never ignored. Never.

##

Maaaannnik!!

Mannniikkkk!!

Someone was badly shacking Manik with teary eyes and cracking voice, while he got up in jerk only to meet his baby daughter with teary eyes with wobbled lips, which made Manik shock and worried at the same time, as he saw her messy look with her teddy bear in her hand, which Manik remembers he kept in his dolls' cradle, while giving Ruhi to ASR after her birth. 

Ruhi!! 

Manik immediately came out of Nandini's hold, who was sleeping next to him, while Ruhi threw her hands in the air, while Manik picked her in his arms in a blink as he walked to Nandini side of the bed. 

Nandu. Nandu. Get up Ruhi ro rahi hai. Manik tried to wake her up while hearing lines Nandini woke up in the jerk. Which made Manik relief.

Aww..my baby, what happened to you? Nandini pulled Ruhi in her arms as Manik gave a glass of water to Ruhi, where Nandini tried to take Teddy from her hold, which she never left her side. while she wailed more. Nandini stopped her doing as she knows what that teddy means to Ruhi, it is a precious thing, which she never left her side ever. Whatever you give her nothing is compare to her teddy she has with her.

Because it has something, which always gives warmth and protection to her. And she doesn't want to lose it no matter what or let anyone touch it.

Kya huwa meri princess kho? Nandini asked her as Manik stayed away from them not because he was not capable of taking care o his daughter but because he feared to get attached to her, which was happening without his knowledge and other was Nandini herself, he feared to hear anything again. He feared. It stopped him again as he stood foots away from them. 

Where his face depicted nothing but worry for his daughter. He always wants his daughter to be happy. No matter what.

Nanndduuu. She wailed in her mother's arms as it felt knife to him.

Kya huwa baby? Nandini kissed her cheeks lovingly as she wiped her tears with her hands, while Ruhi snuggled into her mamma's arms. It was always an unknown connection to Nandini, maybe you call mother's love, which connected them anyway without her past memories. Feelings never forget there way like memories in mind.

Nandini's motherly feelings made her find her way to reach Ruhi through Khushi and then there was no turning back. You don't need a bond like you need to any other person in the world. You will be connected with your mother from very womb. You can't erase that bond or emotion. Same was in case of Ruhi and Nandini. She found her way to reach her. 

Bad dream. Demons. Nandu..Ruhi hicked up while Nandini kissed her forehead as she rocked her in her arms, something Ruhi expects from her loved ones like Manik, where he sat at the edge of the bed looking at the duo. This is what he dreamt. Them in precise. They and their only daughter. 

Mera baby dar gaya. Mai hu na, Mai sab demons ko baga dungi. Now smile my baby. Nandini said cutely with utmost care as she rocked her daughter, while Manik admired his girls from far away with a sad small smile, he wanted to part of it but feared to see old Nandini, who he never wants to meet up again ever, who will definitely keep him away from his own daughter. Now at least he can have a glimpse of her with New Nandini but with Old Nandini, she makes sure that never happens.

He smiled at them as he looked them giggling as they were tickling each other. Where he looked skywalker's door(which is connected to Manik and Nandini's room from Murthy's mansion) was opened not the main door of his room, he looked at Ruhi. Wait! how come Ruhi ended up in their room rather than being in ASR and Khushi's room. Yes, he didn't mind but how come Ruhi ran to them than Rayzada, who she thinks as her parents.

Ruhi? why didn't you went to ASR room? Manik asked softly as he maintained distance, he doesn't want to take chance with Nandini's forgotten memories now. It feared him to death.

I couldn't reach knob of the door. And I saw skywalker door open. So, I walked from there. she said with a pout, which made sense to Manik as skywalker's door will never be closed by either of the houses, It was a habit of Manan from childhood as they walk up to each other room without permission. 

Thank god we both never locked that door. Nandini uttered looking at the way, where she saw the image of a boy and a girl, who were pulling each others hair like always. It was them. Manan in childhood. That was the memory she likes in them, where she had feelings for Manik from childhood. That small Manik was completely different from the Manik she has married. What difference she isn't able to recollect. Something about him is what she forgot about him. She needs to remember. She should.

Manik!!

Ruhi crawled to Manik's lap as he made her sit on his lap, while he rocked her in his arms, she felt safer and connected to him, while she snuggled to his chest, whatever it was Ruhi was too close to her father than her mother. He struggled so much to be with her when she was in Nandini's womb, and that was worth it. Because he was the one who felt her before, any. he used to talk to her all night when Nandini was sound sleep without anyone's knowledge. He felt her first kick than Nandini, she responded to her dad more than her mom. She was daddy girl's from the very beginning. She will always be.

Where Nandini hugged her knees as she saw Manik, who was saying sweet things to his daughter so sweetly, where she forgot her bad dreams in the fairy tale, which Manik built in his words for his daughter. It felt like a delight to Nandini. Where their smile made her happy like never before. Nothing made her this happy than this very moment. But why? She couldn't figure out. She didn't stress herself as she admired them more. That was the best thing she ever did. Never to look for reasons. If she did, she would ruin Manik Malhotra forever again, which she was never aware of. She forgot what disaster, she bought for his hidden truth, how badly she destroyed him. She was never aware of. She screwed Manik inside him. It is just Manik Malhotra now. Where he lost himself, he is still finding in darkness.

Manik walking to and fro with Ruhi in his arms as Nandini was reading the story to her, it was the moment any family wants to cherish. They wanted to cherish with their daughter. While she spent her first family moment with her parents being her side. While she slept hearing her mom in her daddy's arms.

Manik! Nandini called him with a content smile, which he never saw in her face till date, as he walked towards her, as she kneels down on the bed, as she pulled Manik by the waist as she kissed his lips with some emotion, which is unknown to her too. And for Manik, it was a pure and sudden shock, but he recovered as he kissed her back. And looked her.

You will be the best father to our kids!

Nandini confessed it by her heart, with a content smile, she saw some emotions in him. At the moment all her heart thought was, he will be the best dad in the whole world.

You will be the worst father to our daughter!

Is what Manik heard in his mind, it just popped out when he heard her, it was her words again. As he looked Nandini with blank eyes. Should he be happy or sad, he didn't know. He just looked her eyes, That eyes spoke happiness and soulful confession in it than hatred and anger towards him. While Manik took a minute to observe her words, as she kissed him again. He let her lead, where he surrendered himself without a word. He didn't know what to express, all he wanted at the moment is, his Nandini. 

Only Nandini Not Twinkle.

He wanted to cherish this moment. Because life is not certain always!! he knows it.

##

Life is uncertain,

So, eat dessert first!!

###

Missed me??

Which Manik do you like most??

Fated vala??

Ya phir

My so-called Husband??

how was it?? Ping me.

I know I'm too late. I have many family and work issues, which is why I'm unable to update any of my stories. Sorry dears, I know you all are waiting. Please bear me little more, I'll be back sooner. With lamba update in either of my stories. All I want you to wait for me. I have reasons for my disappearance. 

Sorry again for no replies to your comments, I had an issue with my phone. Now its fine.I'll update fated sooner. But don't ask me when. Sorrrryyyy!!

Miss me till then.

Lots of love