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“Why are we suddenly talking about babies? It’s my bro’s birthday. Let’s focus on him.” She slides her arm through Vishnu’s.

“Where’s my birthday gift?” he asks, and I notice a strange glint in Meher’s eyes.

“The gift I have for you is… special,” she replies mysteriously. “Trust me, it’s going to increase your family duties big time.”

I share confused glances with everyone else, but before we can probe further, Ayaan appears with Raghav—his fraternal twin.

And just like that, the vibe in the room shifts.

Though Raghav has turned over a new leaf, there’s something about him, an intensity, a presence that’s impossible to ignore. The way he moves, the confident way he holds himself—some things never quite fade away.

Raghav Kundra isn’t a man who merely enters a space; he commands it. Even in his reformed state, that unmistakable mafia aura still clings to him, as if his past refuses to fully release its grip. He’s dressed in a bespoke tailored black suit that hugs his broad shoulders. Every detail—from the crisp, open collar of his designer shirt to the sleek, expensive watch on his wrist—speaks of his sophistication and refined taste.

But it’s not the clothes that make him stand out. It’s the way he carries himself that sets him apart—a quiet confidence that borders on dangerous. His presence is definitely not for the faint-hearted; it is magnetic, lethal, like a predator who no longer hunts but hasn’t forgotten how.

Women might swoon over him, but he isn’t the kind of man to entertain weak hearts. There’s steel beneath that devastating charm, a darkness that simmers just beneath the surface.

Stopping in front of Vishnu, Raghav gives him a nod before extending his hand. “Happy birthday, Vishnu.”

Vishnu clasps his hand firmly. “Glad you could make it.”

I notice how Raghav’s usually guarded expression softens slightly.

Raghav nods. “Couldn’t miss an invite from the party president of the ruling party.”

Ayaan smirks, shaking his head. “Vishnu is a very ethical politician. If you’re hoping to grease some wheels for RK Vineyard’s business approvals, forget it. No shortcuts—only proper legal documentation works for him.”

Vishnu smirks at Ayaan, and the two tap their fists together in a silent brotherly high-five.

Raghav remains silent, merely watching the exchange with that unreadable gaze of his. But we all know—if he trulywantedsomething, no red tape in the world could stand in his way. That’s the kind of man he used to be.

The fact that he no longer takes those shortcuts and now walks the same path of righteousness as the rest of the Shergills, is what makes him even more formidable. Because when a man like Raghav chooses to stay on the right side of the line, it’s not because he’s forced to—it’s because he wants to. And that’s when you know he’s left his past behind and is done with it.

Aksh and Devika excuse themselves when they see Papa calling them. Meher steps forward and wraps Raghav in a warm side hug. The gesture is so natural and instinctive—just like a sister greeting her brother after a long time. And despite his usual aversion to hugs and any form of physical affection, Raghav doesn’t pull away. Instead, his arm tightens around her for a brief moment, as if soaking in that rare comfort. I’ve noticed this before also—the way Raghav is different around Meher—softer, more open, more human-like. And Meher, too, has formed this invisible bond with her brother-in-law, one that goes beyond mere words.

“I really thought you wouldn’t come today,” she says, arching a brow. “Just like last time, when you missed Veer’s birthday.”

Raghav exhales, adjusting the cuff of his suit. “I had renovations going on at the Vineyard resort back then. Couldn’t leave it unattended.” Then, with the faintest smirk, he adds, “But if I had missed this one, I’m sure you and Ayaan would’ve been at my doorstep, ready to drag me here.”

Meher grins, nudging Ayaan playfully. “Absolutely.”

Ayaan, standing tall beside her, slides an arm around her waist, his grip possessive yet casual. His dark eyes gleam with pride as he looks at his twin. “For once, you got that right. We’re not letting you disappear back into your brooding cave, Raghav. Not anymore.”

Raghav scoffs lightly, but there’s no real bite to it. He knows. He sees it—the way Ayaan, Kailash uncle, and Meher are all working tirelessly to anchor him to the Shergill family, refusing to let him slip back into the shadows of his past.

Meher’s voice softens, her concern evident. “You can’t keep isolating yourself forever, Raghav. Family isn’t just about blood—it’s about belonging. And you belonghere.”

Raghav doesn’t answer right away. His jaw tightens as he glances suspiciously at Ayaan, muttering, “You put her up to this, didn’t you?”

Ayaan chuckles, shaking his head. “Meher doesn’t need me to put words in her mouth. She’s got a mind of her own—and she’s always right.” He winks at his wife, and she positively beams at him.

Raghav exhales, rubbing the back of his neck in mild exasperation. “You two are impossible.”

Meher simply links her arm with his, tugging him toward the rest of the group. “And yet, here you are—at a party, withus.”

Ayaan smirks. “Which means we’ve won.”

Raghav shakes his head but doesn’t pull away. Despite all his resistance, despite all the walls he keeps up, hestays. And that says more than any words ever could.