Episode 7 : "A Morning of Joy and Loyalty"
1186 Words
(Veer’s Point of View — At His Mansion)
It’s a beautiful morning, and I’m seated at the dining table—not at the head chair, as one might expect from the owner of a grand mansion like this, but at the chair to its right. That seat at the head is reserved for the man I revere: Denver Knight.
He is more than just a mentor—he’s my savior. He gave my sister and me a home when we had nothing. Shelter, food, a future—he provided all of it without hesitation. His word is final. It’s etched in stone. I would lay down my life for him—or take one if needed.
Today is special for two reasons. First, it’s Pari’s birthday—our precious five-year-old angel and the daughter of Denver and Rhea. She is the heart of this household, and we all adore her. Second, my sister Ruhani returns from her month-long vacation in the Maldives. I’ve missed her more than I realized.
Lost in thought, I was brought back to reality by a familiar, excited scream coming from the entrance of the mansion.
“Bhai! Veer Bhai!”
A wide smile formed on my face as Ruhani ran in, arms open. She threw herself into my embrace with childlike excitement.
“I missed you, Bhai,” she said, holding on tightly.
“I missed you too, Ruh,” I replied warmly, kissing her forehead. “Come, let’s have breakfast together.”
As we settled in, I asked, “So, how was your trip?”
“It was amazing, Bhai! I’ve taken so many pictures—I’ll show them to you when you’re free.”
I smiled and nodded.
Suddenly, she looked at me with hopeful eyes. “Do you remember your promise?”
I smirked. “Which one exactly, Ruh? You might need to refresh my memory.”
She pouted. “Bhai! You never forget promises made to others, but you forget the one you made to me?”
Her disappointment was genuine, and I softened. “Don’t cry, Ruhani Singh Roy. You know I can’t stand tears in your eyes,” I said, wiping them gently with my thumb. “Of course, I remember. I’ll speak to Sanchit—after Pari’s birthday party.”
Her face lit up with joy. “I love you, Bhai. You’re the best!”
“I have to leave now. Denver Bhai needs me, and the party starts at 12 sharp. Don’t be late.”
“I won’t,” she said, waving me off with a grin.
---
When I arrived at the Knight Mansion, it looked like a scene from a fairy tale—decorated like Disneyland itself. As soon as little Pari saw me, she squealed, “Veer Chachu!” and ran straight into my arms.
She was dressed like a true princess—gown, tiara, and all.
“Happy Birthday, my princess,” I whispered, showering her with kisses.
“Thank you, Veer Chachu!” she beamed.
“How do I look?” she asked, pouting playfully.
“Even fairies can’t compare to you,” I replied.
“Even more beautiful than Cinderella?” she questioned innocently.
“Absolutely. Cinderella can’t even compete,” I affirmed. She giggled and blushed.
“Where’s my gift?” she asked eagerly.
“You’ll get it soon. First, tell me where your Dadda is.”
“Pinky promise?” she said, holding up her little finger.
“Pinky promise,” I replied, linking mine with hers.
“He’s with Mumma in their room.”
I smiled. “Your gift will be here in half an hour, my princess.”
Setting her down gently, I made my way upstairs.
---
Outside Denver Bhai and Rhea’s room, I heard Rhea’s playful but angry voice.
“You know what, Mr. Husband? You’re a big pervert!”
“If loving my beautiful wife makes me a pervert, then let me show you how much,” Denver replied with a teasing laugh.
Not wanting to interrupt anything intimate, I cleared my throat loudly.
Rhea, now aware of my presence, pushed Denver away and blushed. “You’re sleeping on the couch from tonight,” she declared and came to greet me.
“Good morning, Veer Bhai,” she said warmly, embracing me.
“Good morning, little sister,” I responded. Though we aren’t related by blood, our bond runs deeper than many siblings I know.
“You finally found time from Mr. Husband duties?” she teased, eyeing both of us suspiciously.
We both raised our hands in mock surrender.
“You two better behave,” she warned, shooting Denver a final glare before heading downstairs.
I turned to Denver with a smirk. “So, the mighty mafia king is afraid of his sweet wife?”
He narrowed his eyes at me. “Is the plan ready?”
“Yes, boss. Everything’s in place. We’ll catch him Friday night.”
He nodded. “Let’s head down.”
---
Pari was gleefully playing with her little friends. My eyes found my best friend, Sanchit Sinha, who was walking toward me.
“Hello, buddy,” he said, hugging me.
“You finally made it,” I said.
“Of course—how could I miss Pari’s big day?” he replied.
Though he’s not fond of Denver Bhai due to personal reasons, Sanchit has always cared deeply for Rhea and adores Pari.
“Come on, she’s waiting for her San Chachu,” I said, pulling him toward her.
She squealed at the sight of him. Sanchit knelt and picked her up.
“Happy Birthday, princess,” he whispered, kissing her cheek.
“Thank you, San Chachu! Where’s my gift?”
“It’s right here,” he said with a wink.
At that moment, Rhea and Ruhani joined us.
“Pari! It’s rude to ask for gifts,” Rhea scolded gently.
“Stop it, Rhea. It’s her birthday. She can ask for anything!” Sanchit replied, defending Pari. “We’re her Chachus—you don’t get to come between us and our princess.”
Pari stuck her tongue out at her mother and giggled.
“You’re getting naughtier by the day, Ms. Pari Denver Knight,” Rhea said, shaking her head with a smile. “And don’t spoil her with too many gifts. She already has enough toys and gadgets.”
The three of us—Sanchit, Ruhani, and I—exchanged a look that clearly said, Whatever you say.
Sanchit hugged Rhea and then turned to embrace Ruhani, who hugged him back shyly.
“It’s time for the cake,” he announced, lifting Pari again. She wrapped her arms around his neck and rested her head on his shoulder.
We all gathered near the center of the hall, where a grand Barbie-themed cake stood. Denver Bhai gently placed Pari down beside it. She gasped when she saw the cake and began jumping with joy.
That moment—watching her happiness, seeing the people I love around me—reminded me why loyalty, family, and love are the only things worth fighting for.
- Writer
