The soft hum of the jet blended with the occasional murmurs of the crew and the light clatter of cutlery from the in-flight dining area. The luxurious interior of the Randhawa private jet looked untouched by time—polished mahogany panels, plush beige leather seats, ambient lights dimmed to a comforting warmth. Yet amidst the understated opulence, it wasn’t the lavish surroundings that held Pihu’s attention. It was the growing, tentative bond forming quietly across the aisle—one that tugged painfully at her chest, one she never imagined witnessing.

Ruhi sat curled up beside her, flipping through the pages of her coloring book, half-distracted by her own thoughts. Across from them, Ruhaan sat near Akash—by sheer chance more than planning. It had happened sometime after lunch. The twins had insisted on exploring the aircraft, curious about the different compartments. Radhika and Surya had eagerly offered to show them around. At first, Pihu had remained alert, ready to step in, protective as ever. But as Ruhaan lingered beside Akash while Radhika took Ruhi to the cockpit, she found herself rooted to her seat, unsure of whether to interfere or observe.