chapter 3

Amaira couldn’t shake the vivid memories of the time she spent with her younger brother, Dilip. It felt just like yesterday when their entire world turned upside down, shattering her sense of security and comfort.After celebrating her 14th birthday, tragedy struck: their parents passed away unexpectedly, leaving Amaira adrift in an ocean of grief. The weight of sorrow pressed heavily on her heart, making her feel as though she was navigating life in total darkness. In the depths of her despair, she often felt isolated, as if she had no one to turn to. However, Dilip, her younger brother, became the beacon of hope she desperately needed. He was not only her brother but her unwavering ally, reminding her that life still held value amidst the pain. He stood by her through thick and thin, becoming her rock during a turbulent time.Despite the challenges they faced, including the relentless bullying from their aunt, who seemed to take pleasure in exploiting their vulnerability, Dilip remained steadfast. He offered her warmth and comfort when their aunt’s harsh words cut deep, making her feel like she wasn’t alone in a world that seemed cruel and unforgiving. His presence brought a sense of safety, a reminder that the bond they shared was unbreakable.When Amaira turned 18, the pressure of their reality began to weigh on them both. Dilip, who was just 15 at the time, made a heartfelt promise to his sister every night before bed. He vowed that he would work hard to ensure their future was secured, pledging to take care of her once he began earning money. Despite his youthful spirit and eagerness to protect her, Amaira understood that the responsibility of caring for Dilip also fell on her shoulders after their parents were gone. She had to grow up quickly, prioritizing their shared well-being above all else.At the age of 21, Amaira received a life-changing job offer in England from her boss at the café where she worked. It was a golden opportunity with a lucrative salary that could provide for both her and Dilip, especially as he planned to pursue higher education. The excitement was palpable, but with it came a wave of anxiety. Dilip was now becoming more independent, yet he was anxious about the thought of his sister moving so far away. Though he had matured into an adult, the idea of being separated from Amaira filled him with dread. He felt the weight of their past and the bond they had forged over the years, and he couldn’t bear the thought of being apart. While he understood the importance of education, he also felt a strong emotional pull to stay close to her.Despite the miles that would separate them, Amaira and Dilip made it a priority to talk on the phone every single night. Their conversations became a lifeline, a reminder of their unbreakable bond. Through determination and hard work, they both slowly improved their financial situation. Yet, as time wore on, life felt achingly lonely without the daily comfort of each other's presence.Just yesterday, Amaira was working when a colleague told her that Dilip was waiting for her outside. She felt her heart race as she stepped out and saw him. They embraced tightly, feeling like that moment was essential after four long years apart. Joy filled Amaira’s heart at seeing him again.But soon, emotions took over. Amaira lost her temper and scolded Dilip for leaving India and not listening to her. They argued, and in her anger, she called him selfish, reminding him of all the sacrifices she had made for him over the years.Dilip felt hurt by her words. He understood why she was upset, but it still pained him. He came to celebrate her birthday, and all he wanted was to be close to her. He also needed to focus on his studies, which made things complicated.After their fight, Amaira regretted how she had spoken to him. She thought back to their shared experiences and felt bad for letting her frustration take over. When Dilip left, panic set in. This was their first real fight, and both of them had reasons for their feelings. Dilip wanted to stay nearby, but Amaira wanted him to finish his education and build a stable future.If only Amaira had known what would happen next. She blamed herself for scolding him, wishing she had chosen her words carefully. Maybe then he wouldn’t have left so quickly and avoided the accident. Now, through her anger, she felt she had lost him forever.***“Doctor, please tell me there’s something we can do!” Tears brimmed in Amaira's eyes, painting the edges of her vision with desperation.The doctor paused, his brow furrowed as he weighed the impact of his next words. “There is one possibility, but…” He took a breath, searching for a way to convey the gravity of the situation.“What is it? I need to know!” Amaira pressed, urgency and fear lacing her voice.“It’s a risky and costly procedure,” he replied, his tone firm yet compassionate.“I don’t care! I’ll do whatever it takes to save my brother. Just guide me!” she proclaimed, her determination cutting through the dark haze of uncertainty.“The situation is complex. Both sides of his brain are affected, and only Dr. Luke has had success with cases like this,” he explained, his words laced with both a sliver of hope and a stark warning.A spark ignited within Amaira, propelling her forward.“But Dr. Luke is reclusive, performing surgeries only a few times a year. His schedule is booked for the next five years. Even if you reach him, there’s only a 30% chance of success, and the costs will be immense,” the doctor cautioned, concern echoing in his voice.“I will find the money somehow! Saving my brother is all that matters! If there’s just a 1% chance, I have to pursue it,” Amaira asserted, her voice rising with fierce conviction.“I can’t guarantee he’ll be reachable,” the doctor warned, disappointment lingering in his gaze.“I will do anything to contact him. Thank you, doctor, for your honesty.” As Amaira stood up, her heart swelled with resolve, ready to forge her path forward and take action for the sake of her brother.