"7. Trust and Tears"

"Ek arsa ho gaya mujhe muskuraye

Kuch waqt hua tujhe meri zindagi me aaye

Ek hulchul si uthti hai mere bheetar

Ek kashish so hoti hai mere andar

Jab jab Tera chehra naraz aaye"

-fictionflare_

After some time, Rudraksh stepped out of the washroom, his expression calm but his mind preoccupied. He spotted Ruhanika still on the bed, seemingly lost in her thoughts. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, clearly reflecting her lingering distress over the events of the previous night. Rudraksh's heart sank at the sight of her crying; he hated seeing her in pain. It troubled him deeply, especially because he couldn’t understand why she trusted him so much despite everything. Dressed casually in a black shirt and white pants, Rudraksh tossed the towel onto the couch and moved towards her. His footsteps were slow and deliberate, his gaze fixed on her tear-streaked face. She quickly lowered her head, trying to hide her tears, but Rudraksh could see right through her attempt to mask her emotions. He knew she was struggling to keep her feelings hidden, and it tugged at something deep inside him. Gently, he placed his hand on her head, his touch meant to be reassuring, yet she still didn’t look up. Whenever she looked at him, it stirred something in his heart—a mix of emotions he couldn’t quite comprehend. But now, even her refusal to meet his gaze was unsettling for him. He found himself caught between wanting to see her eyes again and respecting her space. Despite his inner turmoil, he chose not to force her, understanding that she needed time and space to process her emotions.

Rudraksh: "Chalo niche chalte hai, doctors aane wale honge, tumhare check up ke liye."

(Come on, let's go downstairs. The doctors will be here soon for your check-up.)

Ruhanika: "Vo k..al waali lad..kiya ph..ir aayengi??"

(Will those g...girls from y...yesterday come a...again?)

Rudraksh: "Haa par tum daro mat, main rahunga tumhare sath, thik hai??"

(Yes, but don't worry. I'll be with you, okay?)

Ruhanika wasn't entirely sure of herself, but she nodded her head anyway, trying to muster some courage. She shifted slightly, preparing to step down from the bed, but before she could make a move, Rudraksh firmly placed his hand on her uninjured shoulder, stopping her in her tracks. His grip was gentle but firm, conveying his concern. He gave her a stern look, his eyes narrowing in disapproval, clearly warning her not to push herself too much. His glare was enough to make her pause and reconsider her actions.

Rudraksh: "Pairon me chot lagi hai toh kyu niche utar Rahi ho?? Main hu na yaha bol do mujhe."

(Why are you trying to step down with an injured leg? I'm right here; just tell me.)

Ruhanika lowered her head, clearly affected by Rudraksh's tone. The moment he saw her reaction, Rudraksh immediately regretted his sternness. He cursed himself mentally for speaking so harshly, especially when he knew how fragile she was feeling. He didn’t mean to be so brusque; he was just worried about her overexerting herself.

Rudraksh: "Yaar tum dekho main aise hi baat karta hu toh bura mat lagaya Karo."

(Look, I talk like this, so don't get upset.)

Ruhanika looked at Rudraksh, her eyes searching his face as if she wanted to say something but couldn't find the words. As her gaze lingered on him, Rudraksh felt that familiar flutter in his chest—an inexplicable sensation that he had been feeling around her. His heart seemed to skip a beat, caught in a moment that felt both heavy and tender. He mentally shook himself, trying to regain his composure and dismiss the erratic feelings that were threatening to overwhelm him. Still, he couldn’t ignore the intensity in her eyes. There was something she needed to express, something she was holding back.

Rudraksh: "Bolo kya kehna hai, gale me dard hai kya??"

(Tell me, what's on your mind? Is your throat hurting?)

Ruhanika shook her head slowly.

Rudraksh: "Toh phir??"

(Then what?)

Ruhanika: "Vo hu...me bhi k..apde bada..lne hai, fre..sh hona hai."

(I...I need to ch...change my clothes and get fr...fresh.)

Rudraksh: "Ohh, achcha chalo."

(Oh, okay, let's go.)

Rudraksh bent down to lift her, but Ruhanika quickly shook her head, a clear sign of her reluctance.

Rudraksh: "Nahi kya, chalne mana hai tumhe so uthane do mujhe."

(No, you're not supposed to walk, so let me carry you.)

Ruhanika: "Vo..nahi"

( N...not that )

Rudraksh: "Phir??"

(Then what?)

Ruhanika: "Hu..mare k..apde, vo kal r..aat me kahi...."

(My cl...clothes...where are they from la...last night?)

She lowered her head, clearly distressed by thoughts of the previous night. Even though Rudraksh remained silent, he closed his eyes for a moment to gather his composure. After taking a deep breath, he gently lifted her into his arms, offering her the support she needed while still respecting her feelings.

Rudraksh: "Abhi kaise meri shirt pehni hai, vaise hi shirt pehen lena, main baadme tumhare liye kapde le aaunga thik hai?"

(Just put on one of my shirts, like you did last night. I'll get you some clothes later, okay?)

Ruhanika: "Aur ni..che kya p..eh..ene??"

(And wh...what should I wear b...below?)

Rudraksh: "Offo, tumhare sawaal khatam ho nahi hote, ruko main de raha hu na kapde."

(Oh my, your questions never end. Hold on, I'll get you some clothes.)

Rudraksh carefully carried Ruhanika to the washroom and gently set her down near the door, ensuring she was comfortable and stable.

Rudraksh: "Bas 1 minute main kapde le aata hu."

(Just one minute, I'll get the clothes.)

She nodded in acknowledgment, and Rudraksh went to his walking closet. Moments later, he returned with a shirt and sweatpants. He handed them to her with a gentle yet deliberate gesture, making sure she had everything she needed to change comfortably.

Rudraksh: "Main yahi hu, tum fresh hoke aa jao, tum kar logi ya main kisi ko bula du??"

(I'm right here. Go freshen up. Can you manage, or should I call someone to help?)

She stared at him with wide eyes, clearly taken aback by his thoughtful gesture but she was scared.

Ruhanika: "N..n.. ahi, hum k..ar l..e..nge."

(N...no, I can m...manage.)

Rudraksh noticed her reaction and, understanding her hesitation, chose not to press the issue further. He gave her a reassuring nod, signaling that he respected her decision and would wait patiently without any pressure.

Rudraksh: "Achcha achcha, thik hai main intezar karta hu, araam se ha pairo pe aur hath me zyada zor mat dalna."

(Alright, alright, take your time. Don't put too much pressure on your hands and legs.)

Ruhanika nodded gratefully and stepped into the washroom. After a short while, she emerged, looking noticeably more composed. Rudraksh, who had been standing with his back turned while scrolling through his phone, heard the door open and turned around. His gaze immediately fell on her, and a warm smile began to form at the corners of his mouth. He tried to suppress it by pressing his lips together, but his eyes betrayed the fondness he felt. Ruhanika stood before him, clad in his dark blue shirt and grey sweatpants. The oversized shirt engulfed her, and the sweatpants were slightly too loose, making her appear both endearing and vulnerable. She wore an adorably hesitant pout on her face, clearly uncomfortable but trying to look composed. Rudraksh’s heart melted at the sight. Despite his attempt to maintain his serious demeanor, the tenderness in his eyes and the softness in his voice revealed his affection. Rudraksh observed Ruhanika and couldn't help but notice how the shirt and sweatpants were far too big for her. The dark blue shirt hung loosely, with the sleeves extending well past her hands, making them look like they were swimming in fabric. The grey sweatpants were similarly oversized, pooling around her feet and making her look as though she might trip if she moved. Ruhanika had her hands clutched around her stomach, as though trying to secure herself or perhaps seeking comfort. This gesture, combined with her overall appearance, shifted Rudraksh’s initial amusement to a deep concern. Seeing her like this, he quickly moved to her side. His expression softened, and he gently placed one hand over hers, which was still resting on her stomach, and the other on her shoulder.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua betu?? Pet me dard hai??"

(What happened, kiddo? Is your stomach hurting?)

Ruhanika shook her head, her gaze still fixed on the floor, as if trying to push away her discomfort and unease.

Rudraksh: "Toh kyu pakda hai is tarah??"

(Then why are you holding it like that?)

Ruhanika: "Vo ye aa..pka pant ye hu..me bahaut bada ha...ai. ni..che gir rah..a hai."

(Your p...pants are t...too big for me; they're falling d...down.)

Rudraksh had to make a concerted effort to stifle a smile and resist the urge to playfully pull her cheeks. The sight of her in his oversized clothes was both endearing and heartwarming, and it took considerable self-discipline for him to keep his expression composed. His concern for her was genuine, but he couldn’t entirely suppress the tender feelings she evoked in him.

Rudraksh: "Toh isiliye toh sweatpants diye the, knot kyu nahi bandha??"

(That's why I gave you sweatpants. Why didn't you tie the knot?)

Ruhanika: "Hu...mne koshish ki, humse h..ua hi n..ahi."

(I tr...tried, but I c...couldn't.)

Rudraksh shook his head,  charmed by her innocence and the way the oversized clothes swallowed her small frame. However, Ruhanika misinterpreted his reaction, thinking he might be offended. Her gaze dropped, and she lowered her head.

Ruhanika: "Hum s..ach k..eh rahe hai, humne s..ach me k..oshish ki thi, s..achchi."

(I'm t...telling the tr...truth, I r...really tried. Re...really.)

Rudraksh: "Toh maine kab kaha jhuth bol rahi ho paglu."

(When did I say you were lying, silly?)

Ruhanika's eyes were filled with confusion as she glanced up at Rudraksh, and he could tell she was on the brink of asking a peculiar question.

Rudraksh: "Nahi kuch nahi, achcha main knot bandh du??"

(Nothing, nothing. Alright, should I tie the knot for you?)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Pakka?? Tum uncomfortable toh nahi hougi na??"

(Are you sure? You won't feel uncomfortable, right?)

Ruhanika shook her head.

Rudraksh gently lifted the hem of his oversized shirt, pulling it up to her waist to ensure it covered her properly. With a careful touch, he gathered the flat strings of the sweatpants in his fingers, adjusting them to fit her waist. Ruhanika, still holding onto the edges of the pants, let go as he worked, her eyes wide with curiosity and confusion. As he tied the knot securely, he kept his eyes closed, focusing on making sure everything was in place. The sweatpants were now snugly fitted around her small waist, preventing them from slipping any further. When he finally opened his eyes, he found Ruhanika watching him intently, her expression a mix of bewilderment and surprise.

Rudraksh: "Hath aage Karo ye fold kar du??"

(Should I fold the sleeves up for you?)

Ruhanika extended her hand towards Rudraksh, and he began folding the overly long sleeves of his shirt to make them fit her better, but she gently placed her hand over his, halting his movement. Rudraksh paused, looking at her with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua??"

(What happened?)

Ruhanika shook her head, signaling that she didn't want him to continue folding the sleeves.

Rudraksh: "Sirf yahi tak fold karu???"

(Should I fold them up to here only?)

She nodded her head in acknowledgment, and Rudraksh responded by gently patting her on the head, a gesture of reassurance. When she looked up at him, he softened his gaze and tenderly patted her cheeks, conveying a sense of warmth and care.

Rudraksh: "Dekho, ab na hum niche jayenge tumhara check up karane."

(Look, now we're going downstairs for your check-up.)

Ruhanika: "aap ra..henge na sa..th hum..are??"

(You will st...stay with m...me, right?)

Rudraksh: "Tum chahti ho rahu??"

(Do you want me to stay?)

She immediately nodded, and Rudraksh struggled to keep his smile in check. It had been years since he last felt such genuine joy, and the effort to suppress his smile only made it more difficult for him to maintain his composed demeanor.

Rudraksh: "Ha main rahunga tumhare sath. Par dekho ho sakta hai doctor's tumhe hath lagaye, pass aaye tumhare."

(Yes, I'll stay with you. But look, the doctors might need to touch you or come close to you.)

In an instant, the calmness in her eyes was overtaken by a wave of fear, and her hands began to tremble uncontrollably. Rudraksh quickly reached out, gently clasping her hands in his, trying to offer comfort and reassurance.

Rudraksh: "Shhh, Darna nahi tum, koi kuch nahi karega aur main hu na sath tumhare. Bharosa karti ho mujhpe??"

(Shhh, don't be afraid. Nothing will happen, and I'm right here with you. Do you trust me?)

She nodded quickly, and Rudraksh couldn't help but wonder about the depth of her trust in him. He placed his hand gently on her forehead, checking her temperature once more, his concern evident in his touch.

Rudraksh: "Bukhaar toh nahi hai ab, lagta hai jaldi thik hona chahti ho."

(You don't have a fever now; it seems you want to get better soon.)

Rudraksh had hoped that his gesture would reassure her, but her expression grew somber again, and her eyes filled with tears, reflecting her underlying fear. Concern deepened on his face as he carefully guided her to sit on the nearby couch. He then knelt down in front of her, his posture attentive and caring.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua?? Udaas kyu ho gayi?? Dar kis baat se rahi ho??"

(What happened? Why are you sad? What are you afraid of?)

Rudraksh's heart raced as he saw her face, lowered and streaked with tears. The sight of her trembling, her fear evident in every quiver of her sobs, struck him deeply. Each sob seemed to tug at something within him, something he couldn’t quite understand but couldn’t ignore. Feeling an overwhelming urge to comfort her, he gently cupped her face in his hands. His thumbs softly brushed away her tears, his touch tender and reassuring. The warmth of his hands on her cheeks was meant to soothe her, to let her know that despite the storm of emotions within her, she was not alone.

Rudraksh: "Kya ho gaya?? Kyu ro rahi ho??"

( What's wrong? Why are you crying?)

Despite her silent tears and unspoken distress, Rudraksh, usually known for his stern demeanor, found himself struggling to keep his emotions in check. The sight of Ruhanika's tear-streaked face and her quiet suffering affected him deeply. His anger seemed to took over his concern.

Rudraksh: "Bataogi bhi ki roti hi rahogi??"

(Will you tell me what's wrong, or are you just going to keep crying?)

Rudraksh's voice, though unintentional, carried a sharp edge that only intensified Ruhanika's sobs. Seeing her reaction, he quickly recognized his mistake. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, and sighed heavily, feeling the weight of his own frustration and guilt. His harsh tone had not helped; it had only deepened her distress.

Rudraksh: "Meri taraf dekho betu, batao kya hua, main nahi datunga."

(Look at me, kiddo. Tell me what's wrong, I won't scold you.)

Ruhanika: "Aa..p chahte hai h..um th..ik ho ja..ye??"

(D...do you w...want me to get b...better?)

Rudraksh: "Haa toh, kyu tumhe thik nahi hona hai kya??"

(Yes, of course. Why, don't you want to get better?)

Ruhanika: "Hum thik ho ja..ye..nge toh a..aap hume p..hir ba..har Jaa..ne keh denge na??"

(If I get b...better, you'll ask m...me to l...leave again, won't y...you?)

Rudraksh’s eyes widened in shock as he processed her words. He was taken aback by her assumption, unable to fathom why she would think he would ask her to leave after everything that had happened. Her perception of him as someone who would discard her, especially when he understood how vulnerable and childlike she was, struck him deeply. His grip on her face slackened slightly, and the shift in his demeanor only reinforced her fears. Seeing the change in his expression, Ruhanika's heart sank further, her worst fears seemingly confirmed. The tentative hope she had held onto began to crumble, and the tears in her eyes flowed more freely. Rudraksh, realizing the impact of his reaction, felt a pang of guilt and sadness.

Ruhanika: "Hum k..oi, ga..lti nahi ka..renge, aa..p cha..he toh hume d..ant li..jiye, gl..ass bhi t..od dijiyega, a..ap hum..e Kam..re me bhi ba..nd kar sak..ye hai, hu..m aap..ko par..eshan bhi na..hi karenge. B..as vo h..ume b..ahar n..ahi please. Vo a..admi vo v..vapas...."

(I won't make a...any mistakes. Y...you can sc...scold me if y...you want, even br...break a glass on m...me. You can l...lock me in the r...room too. I w...won't bother y...you. J...just please d...don't send me o...out. Th...that man...he'll come b...back...)

Ruhanika’s sobs grew more intense, her throat aching with each painful cry. She struggled to complete her sentence, her words lost amid the torrent of tears. Sensing her distress, Rudraksh enveloped her in a tight embrace, pulling her close. He rested his chin on the top of her head, his fingers gently caressing her hair as he tried to soothe her.

Rudraksh: "Shhh, pehle chup ho jao tum, shhh bachcha"

(Shhh, first calm down. Shhh.)

As Ruhanika's sobs gradually subsided, Rudraksh gently pulled back from the embrace, his hands still holding hers. He looked into her eyes with a tender expression, his touch reassuring and firm.

Rudraksh: "Main jo bolunga uspe bharosa karogi??"

(Will you trust what I say?)

Ruhanika instantly nodded.

Rudraksh: "Mujhse galti ho gayi, bewakoof hu main.."

(I made a mistake; I'm a fool...)

Ruhanika gently placed her hand over his mouth, causing Rudraksh to look at her with wide eyes. The soft, unexpected touch had an effect on him that he hadn't anticipated. His heart, which had long been encased in a rock-like shell, began to soften and melt the moment he laid eyes on her.

Ruhanika: "Aise n..ahi boli..ye ap..ne baare me."

(D...don't talk like th...that about yourself.)

Rudraksh couldn’t help but think how challenging it was to resist smiling around her. With the way things were unfolding, it seemed like the world might soon see a rare and genuine smile from "The Leo" Mafia King. These were the thoughts going on Rudraksh's head.

Rudraksh: "Achcha ab suno, main tumhe kabhi nahi bolunga kahi bhi jaane ke liye. Mujhe maaf kar dogi?? Mujhse galti huyi."

( Okay, now listen. I will never ask you to go anywhere again. Will you forgive me? I made a mistake.)

Ruhanika: "sach hu..m n..ahi jay..enge kah..i??"

(Are you s...sure I d...don't have to g...go anywhere?)

Despite her struggles with speaking, Rudraksh could clearly sense her excitement. It was becoming increasingly apparent that this girl was going to bring a genuine smile to his face today, something that hadn't happened in years.

Rudraksh: "Haa, aur ab bas bahaut hua, ab tum nahi bologi kuch, dard hai na gale me??"

(Yes, and that's enough. Now, you won't say anything more. Your throat hurts, right?)

She nodded her head in agreement.

Rudraksh: "Chalo, doctors aa gaye honge, chalte hai tumhare tute fute shareer ki marammat karane."

(Come on, the doctors must be here by now. Let's go get your broken body fixed.)

She looked at him in confusion, not grasping his words. Rudraksh mentally facepalmed himself, realizing he had used sarcasm in front of her. Shaking his head, he stood up.

Rudraksh: "Kuch nahi, tum meri baaton pe dhyaan mat do."

(It's nothing, don't pay attention to what I say.)

She nodded, still looking confused, as Rudraksh gently picked her up in his arms. She instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck for support. He carried her out of the room, and they soon descended the stairs. Downstairs, Rishwik, Amandeep, and the doctors were already present. Rishwik noticed the deep concern etched on Rudraksh's face as he carried Ruhanika, and a warm smile spread across his face at the sight of the couple.

Rishwik: "Dekh raha hai Aman, Pathar pighal raha hai."

(See, Aman, the stone is melting.)

Amandeep: "Haa Rishwik Sir, aapko toh na shadi Wale din dekhna chahiye. Sir ki aakhon me maine pehli baar gusse ke alawa kuch aur dekha tha."

(Yes, Rishwik Sir, you should have seen it on the wedding day. For the first time, I saw something in Sir's eyes other than anger.)

Rishwik: "aaj in aakhon me parwaah hai bahaut jaldi isme pyaar hoga."

(Today, there's concern in his eyes. Very soon, there will be love.)

Amandeep: "Aapko Aisa sach me lagta hai Rishwik sir??"

(Do you really think so, Rishwik Sir?)

Rishwik: "Haan, main bhi dekhta hu bhai kaise nahi karte Angel se pyaar, maine inhe majboor nahi kiya toh mer naam bhi Rishwik Malhotra the great hacker of the world nahi."

(Yes, I want to see how my brother won't fall in love with Angel. If I don't make him fall in love with her, then my name isn't Rishwik Malhotra, the great hacker of the world.)

Amandeep: "Sir aapka naam vaise bhi Sirf Rishwik Malhotra hai baaki sab ab khud laga rahe hai."

(Sir, your name is just Rishwik Malhotra; the rest is all self-proclaimed.)

Rishwik shot a pointed look at Amandeep, his gaze filled with disapproval. Amandeep, sensing the intensity of Rishwik's stare, shifted uncomfortably.

Rishwik: "Chup kar tu. "

(Shut up, you.)

Amandeep fell silent, his gaze dropping as he absorbed the weight of Rishwik's disapproving look.

Rudraksh: "Kya khusur phusar chal rahi hai dono me??"

(What are you two whispering about?)

Rishwik and Amandeep both shook their heads, each reacting to their own inner thoughts. Meanwhile, Ruhanika, feeling overwhelmed by the situation, buried her face in Rudraksh's neck, seeking comfort. Rudraksh went stiff at her gesture, his emotions caught off guard. Rishwik noticed this and couldn't resist a smirk at Rudraksh's flustered reaction. Rudraksh shot him a sharp glare, but his younger brother's amusement was clearly impervious to any form of intimidation.

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, let's proceed with the tests and check-up. It will take some time as there are a lot of tests."

Rudraksh carried Ruhanika into the medical room, where doctors and nurses followed closely behind. The room was filled with the quiet hum of medical equipment.  As the medical staff prepared for the tests, Ruhanika's anxiety was palpable. She clung to Rudraksh, her eyes wide with fear at the prospect of the various procedures. The doctors began explaining the steps of the examination, but Ruhanika's attention was solely on Rudraksh. She was visibly trembling, and her trust in him was evident as she refused to let anyone else come near her. Rudraksh, determined to offer her comfort, stayed close by her side, following the doctor's instructions meticulously. His own concern was evident in his furrowed brows and the tight grip he maintained on her hand. As the time came for the blood sample to be taken, the atmosphere became even more tense. The needle, though necessary, was a source of dread for both Ruhanika and Rudraksh. Ruhanika's fear intensified as the doctor approached with the needle, her body instinctively drawing closer to Rudraksh. In response, Rudraksh wrapped his arm around her, pulling her tightly against him. He buried her face in his stomach, shielding her from the sight and sound of the impending procedure. Rudraksh's hand, holding hers firmly, was a lifeline of reassurance. He spoke soothing words to her, trying to distract her from the discomfort. As the needle pierced her skin, Ruhanika’s grip on Rudraksh’s waist tightened. She buried her face deeper into his stomach, her breath coming in quick, shallow bursts. The doctor worked quickly and efficiently, and once the sample was taken, Ruhanika immediately wrapped her arms around Rudraksh’s waist, seeking solace. Rudraksh gently patted her head, his touch tender and reassuring. Despite his own worry and the visible strain on his face, Rudraksh remained a steady anchor for Ruhanika. He continued to comfort her, his fingers lightly stroking her back, trying to ease the lingering fear from the ordeal. His presence and the gentle pat on her head conveyed his unspoken assurance that she was safe and cared for.

Rudraksh: "Shh yellow dekho sab thik hai bachcha, ho gaya bas ab."

(Shh, look, everything's fine, kid. It's almost done now.)

She still clung to him, not letting go.

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, all the reports will come by evening. I'll personally come to discuss everything. For now, I can tell that she's really weak, as you can see. So she needs to eat good, healthy, and nutritious food. Her fever is gone, and her feet seem okay. I think she can start walking from tomorrow, but the shoulder injury was deep, so it'll take a few more days."

Rudraksh nodded in response, then glanced down at Ruhanika, who was burrowing her face against his stomach. Her fingers were tightly gripping his shirt, and her small frame trembled slightly. The doctor, observing the scene, shifted his gaze between Ruhanika's anxious form and Rudraksh's steady, reassuring presence.

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, I wanted to discuss something with you. Can you please come with me?"

Ruhanika heard the doctor's words and turned her gaze up to Rudraksh, shaking her head in silent protest. Seeing her distress, Rudraksh gently cupped her face with his hands, his thumb softly brushing away her tears. He then tenderly caressed her head.

Rudraksh: "Bas 2 min, 2 min me pakka vapas aa jaunga."

(Just 2 minutes, I'll be back for sure in 2 minutes.)

Ruhanika pouted and lowered her head, clearly feeling uncertain. Rudraksh’s lips were on the verge of curving into a smile, but he managed to compose himself. He gently helped her settle comfortably, making sure she was at ease before turning to leave. With a final reassuring glance, he exited the room along with the doctor and nurses, closing the door behind him.

Rudraksh: "Yes, doctor?"

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, actually, there's something that's bothering me about your wife."

Rudraksh: "What's that?"

Doctor: "Don't get me wrong, but a patient who has been molested usually tends to be very quiet, which she is, but they also tend to become aggressive and very angry; they get angry at themselves and others. But in your wife's case, she's not even sharing how she's feeling. Has she shared anything with you?"

Rudraksh: "No, doctor, she hasn't even talked about that incident, and since you advised not to pressure her, I haven't asked."

Doctor: "That's good, but I would suggest you stay with her all the time, as she only trusts you. I'm worried she might try to harm herself to vent her anger, so being with her would be safer."

Rudraksh's eyes softened as he glanced back at the closed door of the room. The sight of Ruhanika, so vulnerable and trusting, tugged at his heartstrings. He stood there for a moment, lost in thought, reflecting on the fragile trust she had placed in him and the responsibility he felt to protect and care for her.

Doctor: "Also, Rishwik Sir told me about her past. You need to be very careful with her because biologically, she's 22, but physically, she's 17-18, mentally 5, and emotionally very strong."

Rudraksh's confusion deepened as he turned his gaze toward the doctor. His brow furrowed in concern, seeking clarity about the situation.

Rudraksh: "Strong? How? She starts crying whenever she's with me."

Doctor: "That's because she believes you will handle her. She trusts you. She's strong because, unknowingly, she's mastered the art of hiding her tears and feelings."

Rudraksh: "But that's not good for her mental health, right?"

Doctor: "Right, and that's why I suggested a counselor. But looking at her condition, I don't think she'll share anything with anyone except you. So, it's better that you make her comfortable with others, and then we can proceed to further steps."

Rudraksh listened attentively, his focus unwavering as he mentally noted every detail and instruction provided by the doctor. His expression was a mix of concentration and concern, reflecting his deep commitment to Ruhanika's well-being and his desire to ensure that everything was handled properly.

Rudraksh: "And what about her throat? She feels pain while speaking, and her voice comes out as a whisper."

Doctor: "Since she hasn't spoken for 3 years, whatever the reason is, it will take some time, but I'll prescribe a syrup to help with the pain. Always give her warm water, and her throat will eventually get better."

Rudraksh: "Okay, anything else?"

Doctor: "Nothing for now. I'll take my leave and come back in the evening with the reports."

Rudraksh, typically known for his arrogance, offered no thanks to the doctor. He simply nodded in acknowledgment as the doctor and her team departed.

Rudraksh stepped back into the room, his mind a tumult of emotions. He saw Ruhanika sitting quietly, her gaze distant as she grappled with the events of the previous night. The guilt he felt was overwhelming, a stark contrast to his earlier decision to have her leave. Now, all he wanted was to ensure her safety and shield her from the world’s cruelties. It puzzled him how, just hours ago, he had considered sending her away and now found himself wanting nothing more than to hold her close. What troubled him even more was the depth of her trust in him, despite his role in her distress. Shaking off these turbulent thoughts, he approached her with a quiet resolve. Oddly, she seemed to sense his presence without fear, her body relaxing slightly. He settled himself in front of her, his expression softening. Ruhanika, however, kept her eyes lowered, her silence speaking volumes.

Rudraksh: "Naraz ho kya??"

(Are you upset?)

Rudraksh watched as Ruhanika shook her head.

Rudraksh: "Kyu?? Naraz toh hona chahiye tumhe main baar baar tumhe kamre me chod kar ja raha hu."

(Why? You should be upset since I keep leaving you alone in the room.)

Ruhanika: "Toh a..ap vap..as bhi aate hai. Aa..p hum..se jhuth n..ahi bolte."

(But... you come back too. You don't lie to me.)

Rudraksh noticed the confusion in Ruhanika’s eyes and realized she might be wrestling with painful memories. Determined to help her shift her focus, he decided to gently steer the conversation away from her distressing thoughts.

Rudraksh: "Phir bhi bachcha, main janta hu tum naraz ho tabhi toh meri taraf nahi dekh rahi."

(Even so, Sweetie, I know you're upset, which is why you're not looking at me.)

Ruhanika: "A..ap ne ma..na kiya hai a..pki t..araf d..ekhne se. Aur n..araz ka..ise hote hai h..ume nahi aa..ta."

(You told me not to look at you. And I... I don't know how to be upset.)

Rudraksh couldn't help but marvel at Ruhanika's persistence. It was as if she had vowed to make him smile no matter what, and despite his best efforts to remain composed, her innocent antics were wearing him down. He shook his head with a mix of frustration and admiration. He lifted her gently into his arms once more, feeling her small frame nestled against him.

Rudraksh: "Haa mana kiya tha kyuki main bewakoof hu na. Tum meri taraf dekh sakti ho."

(Yes, I did tell you because I'm an idiot, right? You can look at me.)

Ruhanika looked up at Rudraksh with a frown, her brows furrowed in distress.

Rudraksh: "Ohho tumhe mujhpe gussa aa raha hai??"

(Oh, are you mad at me?)

As Rudraksh began to move out of the room with Ruhanika cradled in his arms, she quickly shook her head, causing some stray strands of hair to fall across her face.

Ruhanika: "Na..hi, hum ka..ise gu..ssa kar sak..te hai aap pe, vo aa..pne khud ko b..e..wakoof kaha, toh..."

(No... how can I be angry at you? It's just... you called yourself an idiot, so...)

Rudraksh: "Toh??"

(So?)

Ruhanika: "Toh hu..me achcha nahi l..aga aur h..ume g...ussa ka..rna nahi aata."

(So, I... didn't like it, and... I don't know how to be angry.)

Rudraksh, managing to control his urge, gently leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Ruhanika's forehead. The tender gesture provided her with a sense of safety and comfort, making her close her eyes and relax into his embrace.

Rudraksh: "Thik hai main nahi kahunga khud ko bewakoof thik hai??"

(Okay, I won't call myself an idiot anymore, okay?)

Ruhanika nodded, and together they made their way to the living room. Rishwik glanced up from where he was sitting, his face breaking into an admiring smile as he observed the pair. Just then, a sudden noise interrupted the moment, causing everyone to turn their attention toward the source of the sound.

Voice: "Mr. Rudraksh Malhotraaaaaaa."

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1. Since both "Bachcha" and "Betu" have been requested, I'll use both—can't upset any of my readers.

2. "Yellow" will remain unchanged. Most of you liked it for its uniqueness, and I'll reveal the reason soon.

3. Please bear with today's chapter, as I wrote it in a hurry.

4. Feel free to share any particular scenes you'd like to see.

5. Should I create another account so you guys can DM me? My current Insta account is having some issues.

6. Don't blame me for the target expectations—it’s you guys who set the bar high! 😜

Target:

Votes: 130

Comments: 50

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Happy reading 🌸 💙

Lot's of Love 🫂