Chapter 6 The Gift Of Bonding: Vikram's Surprise For Dr Manu

• Vikram smiled warmly and presented a flower bouquet along with a small gift box.
• Returning the smile, he graciously accepted the offerings, placing the bouquet on the teapoy. With excitement, he opened the gift pack and joyfully exclaimed, "Is it for me?"
• Vikram nodded, confirming, "Yes," and revealed, "I know this is your favorite watch," placing it in his hands from his pocket.
• Thank you, but what's this for?" Manu inquired with curiosity.
• Vikram responded, "Yesterday, you expressed your desire for a son like me. That's why I came; can't you consider me as your son?"
• Manu, touched by Vikram's heartfelt words, fell into a momentary silence before admitting, "In my life, I've met many people, but nobody has ever surprised me and left me speechless."
• Vikram smiled in acknowledgment.
• Manu then inquired further, "Did your father talk to you? Do you know he removed Nikki from the job?"
• Vikram affirmed, "I was aware when I spoke to you, and I haven't addressed it yet. It will take some time."
• Manu nodded understandingly and extended an invitation, "Will you join in making breakfast?"
• Vikram rubbed his hands with enthusiasm, replying, "Yes, boss, I'm in."
• They strolled together to the kitchen, where Manu donned an apron and hat. Working as a team, they skillfully prepared omelets, then sat down at the dining table to savor the meal they had created.
• ★★★
• Maitri sat on the grass in the garden, the home's fencing creating a backdrop. A playful puppy, only a few months old, cautiously approached her. Startled, both Maitri and the puppy exchanged fearful glances before the pup scurried behind the bushes. Sighing, Maitri decided to focus on her homework.
• Unperturbed, the puppy ventured back, making small noises. This time, Maitri, standing with hands on her waist, addressed the persistent pup, "Hey, why are you following me? I've seen you around school. It's not fair. If you keep this up, do you think I'll adopt you? No."
• The puppy, looking somewhat forlorn, faced Maitri.
• Undeterred, Maitri folded her hands and asserted, "No means no! It's a firm no." Her mother, watching from the open window while cooking, couldn't help but smile at the amusing scene.
• Maitri leaned back, catching a glimpse of her mother Priya, and playfully raised her voice a bit, "By the way, why do I feel like I won't mind if Mom says yes?"
• Priya chuckled, thinking, "Drama Queen."
• Just then, the postman arrived, announcing, "Madam, courier!"
• Priya went to collect the package, and Maitri is behind the home in the garden, couldn't see her mother. After bringing the box inside, Priya unpacked it, arranged everything neatly, placed it in front of the home, and strolled back to the garden where Maitri was.
• What are you doing?" Priya inquired, playfully folding her hands mimicking her daughter.
• Maitri sighed, "I'm just telling this puppy to go away, but it's not listening."
• The puppy, seemingly amused, shifted its gaze between the two.
• Trying to be serious, Priya stated, "I don't mind if you want to keep it."
• Really, Mom?" Maitri asked, surprised.
• Priya nodded. Maitri cheekily remarked, "Mom, I wish it could be your birthday every day so I can get gifts."
• Priya, amused, responded, "Is that so?" Maitri nodded eagerly.
• Palming her face in mock exasperation, Priya closed Maitri's eyes and guided her, saying, "You have a surprise."
• As Priya led Maitri to the front of the home, she uncovered her eyes. Maitri opened them wide, her eyes filled with amazement, and her smile radiating joy upon seeing a pink bicycle with a basket attached to the handle. "Wow, I just can't believe this! Is this for me?" she exclaimed.
• "Yes, my dear," Priya said, gently pulling Maitri's cheeks.
• Overwhelmed with joy, Maitri hugged her mother tightly, expressing her gratitude, "Thank you, Mom."
• They noticed the puppy excitedly jumping, attempting to climb the newly unveiled bicycle. Chuckling at the playful scene, Priya gently picked up the puppy, holding it in her hands. She turned to Maitri and asked, "What name should we give this puppy?"
• Maitri thought for a moment and suggested, "How about Zuzu?"
• Smiling, Priya agreed, "Yes, Zuzu. Do you like this name?" Maitri, taking the puppy in her hands, declared, "Hey, Zuzu, from today onwards, we're best friends. No, scratch that – we three are best friends!"
• Priya, being the thoughtful mom, brought a water tub and shampoo, giving Zuzu a refreshing bath,and She happily allowed Maitri to play with Zuzu, recognizing the budding friendship between her daughter and the playful puppy.
• With sheer delight, Maitri gently placed Zuzu in the basket and began cycling around the garden. Her mother, Priya, stood nearby, smiling warmly as she observed her daughter's happiness. The garden echoed with the laughter of Maitri and the occasional barks of Zuzu, creating a picturesque moment of joy and carefree bonding between them.
• ★★★
• Banglore, In Varma's Mansion
• "Granny, this is the last one more round," Vikram insists, gently encouraging his grandmother to complete their evening walk. Granny, holding onto her knees, replies, "No, I can't do it anymore."
• Unwilling to accept defeat, Vikram responds, "What is this? It's too much. Just lean on my shoulder, and we can walk together. Come on, Granny." He extends his arm, urging her to join him.
• With a resigned sigh, Granny realizes she doesn't have much of a choice. While walking, she places her hand on Vikram's shoulder for support. As they move, Vikram shares jokes and recounts school incidents, making the round more enjoyable for his grandmother.
• After completing the walk, both settle into chairs on the lawn. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for Siddharth and Priya to join them, initiating a conversation about vacation plans.
• Siddharth says, "Vikram, it's been a while since we all spent time together. How about we go for a vacation?"
• Vikram smiles and responds, "It's a great idea, Dad."
• Priya, curious, chimes in, "Tell me, Vikram, do you have any place in mind for the bucket list?"
• Vikram, thoughtful and considerate, says, "Mom, I prefer Granny's choice." He turns to Granny Devi and asks with a warm smile, "Granny, it's been a while since you stepped out from this mansion. Is there any place you'd like to go?"