Chapter 18: A House, A Rain, and a Promise

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The new house smelled of fresh paint and homemade tea. It was still half-empty—no wall clocks, no curtains, just two mugs, two plates, and two toothbrushes in the bathroom. But to Abeer and Reet, it was perfect.

Their laughter echoed through the rooms as they hung fairy lights on the windows, arguing about who made better tea (Reet won, every time), and played soft music on Abeer's old speaker.
After settling in, Reet said, “Let’s do a housewarming, na?”
Abeer nodded, “Yes, but not like a big one. Just Preet, a few classmates… and tea with biscuits.”

So, they invited just a few close friends. The guests came with plants and chocolates, and the house suddenly felt alive. Everyone was teasing them—“Dr. and Dr. Malhotra, when will we get the good news?” Reet blushed hard and Abeer just smiled protectively.
That night, the sky turned grey and gentle thunder rolled in.
As everyone left, it started raining lightly.

Reet stood near the balcony, watching the droplets dance on the railing. Abeer came and stood beside her, holding two steaming cups of tea.
She took hers and whispered, “This rain is like a blessing.”
Abeer smiled, “Or maybe a sign.”
“A sign of what?” she asked.
He looked at her softly and said, “That even storms can be peaceful… when you’re with the right person.”
They stood silently for a moment.
Then suddenly, Abeer turned and went into the bedroom.

Reet frowned, “Where are you going?”
“Wait here,” he said.
A minute later, he returned, holding a tiny box in his hand.
She blinked, surprised. “What is that?”

He opened the box slowly to reveal a delicate silver ring, with a small blue stone that shimmered like the rain outside.
“It’s not an engagement ring,” he said nervously, “We’re already married.”
Reet giggled.

“But this… this is a ‘thank you’ ring. For being my peace. For standing beside me, even when I didn’t know how to express my love. For making this empty house feel like home.”
Her eyes glistened with emotion.
Without saying a word, she held out her hand.

Abeer slid the ring onto her finger—it fit perfectly.
And just like that, in the middle of a rainy evening, no fancy flowers, no loud music—just two doctors in love—a new chapter in their love story began.

In the background, the wind blew the curtains gently as Reet leaned on his shoulder, and he whispered,
“This is forever… Dr. Reet Abeer Malhotra.”
She smiled, “Forever, Dr. Abeer Reet Malhotra.”

Thank you for reading Chapter 18
☔ Next up: First day of real work, new challenges, and a patient who changes everything... 🩺