**Scene 1: Morning Routine and Office Concern**
The morning sun spread soft golden rays through the pale curtains of the bedroom. Maryam, now almost three months pregnant, moved slowly across the room, placing her dupatta over her shoulders and heading toward the kitchen. Just as she reached the stove to boil milk, her phone rang.
"Assalamu Alaikum," she answered softly, already knowing who it would be.
"Wa Alaikum Assalam, jaan. Did you eat something? Did you take your folic acid tablet?" Haroon's voice was filled with warmth and concern.
Maryam smiled. "Yes, Haroon. I had a banana and some milk. And yes, I took the tablet."
Haroon's tone turned slightly firm, teasing. "Are you telling the truth, or just trying to keep me calm?"
She laughed gently. "You're behaving more like a doctor than a police officer these days."
"I'd resign this moment and become your personal nurse if it meant keeping you and the baby safe," he said with heartfelt honesty.
**Scene 2: Evening Visit with Surprises**
That evening, Haroon returned home earlier than usual. He entered the house with a grocery bag in one hand and a small bouquet of jasmine flowers in the other.
"You didn't have to bring flowers," Maryam said, touched, as she accepted the delicate bouquet.
"You love them," he said simply. "And you love mangoes, so I bought two kilos."
He placed the bags on the kitchen counter and began pulling out vegetables, fruits, and even some minced beef.
Maryam looked surprised. "Why so much?"
"I thought I'd make your favorite tonight—Aloo Qeema. And I'll add peas, just how you like it."
She narrowed her eyes in mock suspicion. "Did someone tell you how to cook this or is this your own idea?"
"Please, madam," Haroon replied with exaggerated pride, tying an apron around his waist, "I've been in undercover operations more difficult than making Aloo Qeema."
They laughed together, and Maryam settled on a chair near the stove, watching her husband chop onions with the seriousness of a bomb disposal technician.
**Scene 3: Feeding with Love**
An hour later, they sat down to eat. Haroon served the food, placing a plate in front of Maryam and then sitting close to her.
"You made all this?" she asked, taking the first bite. The aroma of ghee, spices, and slow-cooked meat danced in the air.
He nodded, watching her intently. "Do you like it?"
"It's perfect," she whispered. "More than perfect."
Without a word, Haroon picked up a spoon, scooped some Aloo Qeema, and gently brought it to her lips.
"Let me feed you tonight," he said tenderly.
Her eyes softened with tears of gratitude and affection. "No one's ever taken care of me like this."
He smiled and kissed her forehead. "That's how it should have always been."
**Scene 4: Late Night Assurance**
Later that night, Maryam lay in bed, curled on her side. Haroon sat by her, gently massaging her feet.
"Haroon," she whispered, "I don't want anything to go wrong."
He looked into her eyes, steady and calm. "Nothing will. Not while I'm alive. I'll protect you and our baby with my life."
She smiled. "You say it with such belief, it feels true."
He kissed her hand. "Because it is true."
**Scene 5: Doctor's Visit and Gentle Scolding**
A week later, they sat in Dr. Samina's clinic after a routine check-up. The doctor smiled as she placed the file back on the desk.
"All well. Baby's heartbeat is strong. Maryam, you need rest, and most importantly, no stress."
As they exited the clinic, Haroon squeezed her hand. "See? Everything's good. But don't make me scold you if I ever find out you skipped a meal again."
"I won't," she assured him.
They walked slowly to the car, Haroon gently guiding her step by step, a soft summer breeze blowing through the twilight.
**Scene 6: Another Day, Same Care**
The following day, Haroon called again from his office during lunch.
"Did you eat anything yet, Maryam?"
"Yes, Haroon. I made khichdi today. Very simple but filling."
"And your vitamin tablet?"
"Taken."
He chuckled. "You've become a good patient."
"Only because I have the world's most loving doctor."
They both paused in silence, listening to each other's breathing.
"I'll bring corn soup for you tonight," he said finally. "Just stay rested."
**Scene 7: A Night of Reflection**
That night, after dinner, they lay in bed, the lights dimmed, a soft lull in the air. Haroon placed his hand gently over her stomach.
"Our baby is in there," he whispered, more to himself than to her. "I wonder if it will be a girl or a boy."
Maryam smiled sleepily. "As long as it has your heart, it'll be a good human."
"And your strength," he replied.
She kissed his cheek. "Thank you for making me feel loved."
He pulled her close. "Thank you for being my home."
And in that quiet moment, a peaceful stillness filled the room, as two souls celebrated the life growing between them.
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**End of Chapter 9.**