~From Ashes to Passion~ [Multicouple Series #3]

~01~ The Trip

The early morning air was crisp, and the hum of the bustling airport filled the atmosphere as Kush stepped out of the car. 

He glanced around, his heart racing with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, but before his mind could wander too far, a small giggle broke through the noise.

He looked down, and there she was—Preesha, his little niece, her tiny arms stretched out toward him. 

A soft smile crossed his face as he scooped her up effortlessly. "Oh, my baby," he murmured, holding her close. "I'm going to miss you the most."

Preesha, only two old, giggled in delight, her soft lips planting a kiss on his cheek. 

The tickle of his beard against her skin made her giggle more, her little hands reaching to touch his face. 

The sound of her laughter was like music, filling the moment with warmth.

Everyone around them couldn't help but chuckle at her antics. 

Manyata, standing nearby, shook her head with a fond smile before taking Preesha back into her arms. "Take care of yourself, Kush," she said, her voice a mix of concern and care. "Eat food on time, and please call us once you reach there."

Kush gave her a reassuring smile, trying to ease her worry. "Relax, bhabhi," he said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "I'll be fine. And by the way, I'm not going forever. I'm only going for a week."

Manyata nodded, though her face still showed the telltale signs of a worried mother. "Just make sure you stay safe," she added softly.

Raghavi, walked over and enveloped him in a tight hug. "Take care of yourself." she said, his voice warm but firm. "And remember, you're going to Raghav's friend's place. He'll take care of you."

Kush nodded, pulling back slightly to meet her sister's gaze. "Yeah, I know. Czar Sidorov, right?"

Raghavi smiled and nodded. "Yes, exactly."

Maithili, who had been quiet up until now, stepped forward, her hands on her hips as she hugged him. "Please be back soon, bhai," she said, pulling back just enough to look him in the eye. "And don't forget to bring everything on my list!"

Kush raised an eyebrow and flicked her nose playfully. "Mithu, I'm going there for work, not for shopping."

She grinned mischievously. "Well, who knows? Maybe you'll find something amazing there."

He chuckled, rolling his eyes at her playful tone. "Fine, fine, I'll try. But no promises."

The announcement came through the speaker, calling for passengers heading to Moscow. 

Kush sighed deeply, his smile lingering as he glanced at his family one last time. "I'll be back before you know it," he said, his voice firm with determination.

"Take care, Kush!" they all called out in unison, their voices filled with love and concern.

Kush gave them one final wave, his heart swelling with warmth. 

As he turned to walk toward the entrance of the airport, he felt a strange sense of pride and responsibility—he wasn't just the younger brother anymore. 

This trip, this deal, was his chance to prove himself, and he wouldn't let them down.

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