"11. Sleeping in Solace"

"Ek khwaish puri huyi

Duaon ke bagair

Vo aaye, seene lagaye

Ijazat ke bagair"

-fictionflare_

Rudraksh was speeding down the road, his face set in pure rage. His foot pressed down hard on the accelerator, as if it were Jayvardhan himself that he wanted to crush. The roar of the engine matched the storm raging inside him. Ruhanika’s innocent, smiling face kept flashing before his eyes, while Jayvardhan's vile words echoed in his mind. The memory of Jayvardhan's disgusting thoughts about his pure and innocent wife gnawed at him, causing an unbearable ache inside. It was as if Rudraksh was feeling the same pain that Ruhanika must have endured that night, and the guilt was suffocating him. He couldn’t stop thinking about how things could have been different. If he hadn't forced Vijaypratap into marrying Ruhanika, would she have ended up with that despicable man? The very thought tore at his heart. It pained him deeply to realize how cruel and twisted the world could be to someone as kind and pure as Ruhanika. His mind raced along with the car, consumed by regret and the need to protect her from the harshness of a world that had already hurt her too much. His car sped through the gates of his massive mansion, causing the guards to flinch in fear. If they hadn’t opened the gate in time, he would have crashed right through it. Rudraksh slammed on the brakes, bringing the car to a sudden, jolting stop. The force made him lurch forward, his head hitting his hand on the steering wheel. His chest heaved, breathing heavy from both the reckless drive and the storm of anger raging inside him. Without a moment's pause, he threw open the car door and slammed it shut with a loud thud. His feet barely touched the ground as he sprinted toward the house, the rage and frustration still burning in his eyes.

Rudraksh: "Uski himmat kaise huyi meri Ruh ka sauda karne ki, Jaan lelunga main us Vijaypratap ki."

(How dare he try to sell off my Ruh? I'll kill that Vijaypratap.)

With long, hurried strides, Rudraksh ascended the stairs, skipping several at a time in his rush to reach his room as quickly as possible. Anxiety crept in as he saw the door ajar. His heart raced with concern for Ruhanika. He stepped inside, scanning the room. His eyes immediately fell on Ruhanika, sitting on the bed, propped up by the backrest. She looked so small, her gaze lowered, nervously fidgeting with the sleeves of the oversized shirt she wore—his shirt. It seemed as though she was lost in thought, fragile and unsure. Ashvik was seated in front of her, speaking softly, likely trying to distract or comfort her.

Ashvik: "Teddy, tum na thik ho jao phir main tumhe bhi sikhaunga, hum dono sath me khelenge okay??"

(Teddy, once you're all better, I'll teach you too, and we can play together, okay?)

Ruhanika barely looked up, giving a small, subdued nod in response to Ashvik’s words. Her expression was a mix of resignation and sadness, her fingers still nervously playing with the sleeves of Rudraksh’s shirt.

Rudraksh: "Kya ho raha hai yaha??"

(What's going on here?)

Ruhanika and Ashvik turned their attention to the door as Rudraksh appeared in the doorway. His disheveled appearance told a story of turmoil—his hair was in disarray, his eyes red with anger and exhaustion, and several buttons of his shirt were undone. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, veins protruding from his arms, and sweat glistened on his forehead. Ashvik quickly grasped that Rudraksh's fury had been ignited by something significant. Meanwhile, Ruhanika’s eyes lit up at the sight of her husband. Her gaze softened with relief, and a small, barely perceptible smile tugged at her lips. The sight of her smile seemed to calm Rudraksh’s stormy emotions, his eyes softening in response to her innocent look.Ashvik, observing the shift in Rudraksh's demeanor, understood that Ruhanika's presence had a calming effect on him. With a knowing nod, Ashvik approached Rudraksh and gently placed a hand on his shoulder.

Ashvik: "Nind me Darr ke jaag gayi, maine koshish ki par kuch bol nahi Rahi hai, tu sambhal le."

(She woke up scared in her sleep. I tried, but she's not saying anything. You take care of her.)

Rudraksh gave a slight nod, his gaze fixed on Ruhanika as if trying to reassure himself of her presence. As Ashvik quietly exited the room, Ruhanika extended her hand toward him, her eyes pleading for comfort. Without thinking, Rudraksh's legs seemed to act on their own accord, moving him closer to her. When he reached her side, his hands reached out and gently clasped hers. He sat down opposite her on the bed, his movements almost automatic, as if his body was responding to an unspoken need to be near her. The once intense fury in his eyes now softened, replaced by a deep, aching tenderness.

Ruhanika: "Aap k..a..ha, chale gaye the hume ch..od ke hum dhundh rah..e the aap..ko."

(Wher...e did you g...o? You left me... I was searching for you...)

Rudraksh sat there, mesmerized by Ruhanika’s presence. The sight of her, so innocent and pure amidst a world that had been so cruel to her, filled him with a profound sense of protectiveness. At that moment, all he felt was a deep, overwhelming need to shield her from every harm and to keep her safe within his embrace. While he might not fully understand or articulate his feelings as love, he recognized that she was his responsibility, and the only thing that mattered right now was ensuring she was protected and cared for.

Ruhanika: "Aap ja..nte hai, hume us ra..at ka sapna a..Aya, hum ph..ir Darr Gaye."

(You know, I had a d...ream about that ni...ght again. I got sc...ared.)

As Ruhanika spoke, her voice grew more hoarse, recounting the horrors of that terrible night and the dreams that haunted her. Despite her subdued tone, Rudraksh’s attention was wholly captivated by her eyes. He listened intently, even as he remained lost in the depth of her gaze. Noticing his distracted demeanor, Ruhanika tilted her head slightly, a look of confusion crossing her face. She struggled to read his expression, unable to grasp what he was feeling. In an attempt to break through his daze, she gently poked his shoulder with her finger, seeking to draw his focus back to her words.

Ruhanika: "Aap sun bhi r..ahe hai?? na..raz hai kya hum..se. kya humse ko..I gal...."

(Are you even li...stening? Are you an...gry with me? Did I do some...thing wr...)

Ruhanika’s sentence trailed off as Rudraksh suddenly pulled her into a tight embrace. She was taken aback, her eyes widening in surprise. Normally, it was she who sought comfort in hugs when fear gripped her, but now Rudraksh was the one holding her close. The unexpected shift left her momentarily stunned, but the trust she had in him was unwavering. His embrace was gentle and protective, and she never felt uncomfortable. Slowly, Ruhanika wrapped her arms around him in return, her hands soothingly rubbing his back as she felt the rise and fall of his heavy breathing against her neck. They stayed in this embrace for a few moments, finding solace in each other’s presence without exchanging words. After a while, Ruhanika broke the silence, her voice soft and tentative.

Ruhanika: "Aa..p, thik hai??"

(Are... you okay?)

Rudraksh remained silent, his arms still holding Ruhanika close. His breathing gradually steadied, but he did not respond verbally. Instead, he continued to hold her, finding comfort in the closeness.

Ruhanika: "Aise toh hum aap...ke see..ne se lag j...ate , jab da..rte hai. Kya aa..pko bhi d..ar laga??"

(Normally, when I'm scared, I snu...ggle up to you like this. Were you sc...ared too?)

Rudraksh heard Ruhanika’s voice and slowly pulled back, his eyes now looking at her with a softness that spoke of deep, unspoken feelings. His gaze was tender and filled with an affection that contrasted sharply with his earlier anger.

Ruhanika: "kya aa..pko bhi d..arawna sapna aaya??"

(Did you have a night...mare too?)

Rudraksh observed Ruhanika’s face, noting the mix of concern and confusion etched there. Her eyes reflected her worry for him, and her furrowed brow showed her struggle to understand his emotional shift. Despite her own distress, she was focused on him, her concern evident in every feature.

Rudraksh: "Haa aisa hi kuch, darawne sapne jaisa hi tha."

(Yes, something like that, it was the worst nightmare)

Ruhanika: "Sap..ne me bhoot aaya??"

(Was there a ghost in the drea...m?)

Rudraksh looked at Ruhanika, and for a moment, a smile almost broke through his stern expression. It seemed almost surreal to him that he was so deeply worried about her safety while she was talking about ghosts. Her innocent concern and the contrast with his own turmoil momentarily softened his features. But as he recalled the anger he felt toward Jayvardhan and the disturbing thoughts and actions that had fueled it, his face became stern.

Rudraksh: "Bhoot nahi rakshas tha vo, aur use sazaa toh main dunga."

(It wasn’t a ghost, it was a demon, and I’ll be the one to punish him.)

Rudraksh spoke with a tone of anger, his words laced with the intensity of his emotions. Ruhanika, interpreting his frustration differently, assumed he must have had a nightmare involving a demon and was now frightened by it.

Suddenly, Ruhanika placed both her hands on Rudraksh’s shoulders, lifted herself slightly, and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. The unexpected gesture caught him completely off guard. Rudraksh's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, it felt as though his heart had stopped beating. But then it started to pound so fiercely that he felt it might burst from his chest. The kiss, tender and unexpected, sent a surge of emotions through him. His face, ears, and neck flushed a deep red as every love hormone in his body seemed to spring into action.  It was the first time any girl had kissed him, let alone his wife, whom he had always viewed as a responsibility. Yet here was Ruhanika, having such a profound effect on him. He was so overwhelmed that he forgot to breathe, to move, even to blink. The kiss left him in a state of stunned silence, lost in the intensity of the moment. For Rudraksh, a simple touch from Ruhanika had a profound effect. The once formidable mafia king, known for his ruthlessness and quick decisions, found himself blushing furiously from head to toe due to this innocent act from his wife. The simple touch of Ruhanika’s lips rendered Rudraksh's mind completely blank. After about ten seconds, Ruhanika gently pulled back and settled back into her place. Rudraksh could still feel the lingering warmth of her touch. His eyes, wide with surprise, met Ruhanika's deep brown gaze, and he felt a wave of shyness wash over him. Unable to maintain the eye contact, he turned his head, trying to compose himself and escape the intensity of her gaze.

Ruhanika: "Ye aap..ka che..hra, achanak se l...aal kyu ho gaya??"

(Why did your fac...e suddenly get so red?)

Rudraksh turned his face towards Ruhanika, his cheeks still flushed with a deep red.

Rudraksh: "Ye.. ye tumne abhi kya kiya betu??"

(What... what did you just do, baby?)

Ruhanika: "Jab hu..m cho..te the, aur da...rr jaate the tab Nima na hu..me, aise hi sh..ant karti thi."

(When I was li...ttle and got scar...ed, Nima used to calm me down like this.)

Rudraksh: "Toh tumne socha tum mujhe bhi aise .."

(So you thought you'd calm me down the same way...)

Ruhanika nodded, and it was becoming increasingly difficult for Rudraksh to suppress his smile. The anger he had felt just moments ago seemed like a distant memory as he looked at her, his heart still racing from the unexpected kiss.

Ruhanika: "Kyu, kya hum..ne ku..ch galat kar diya?? "

(Why, did I do some...thing wr...ong?)

Rudraksh, unable to contain his feelings any longer, reached out and gently pulled Ruhanika’s cheeks affectionately.

Rudraksh: "Such a pure soul you are, my belle âme."

Ruhanika, as usual, struggled to understand his words and responded with a puzzled look, her eyebrows scrunched together and her lips forming a small pout. Seeing her confusion, Rudraksh couldn’t help but find her reaction endearing. He reached out once more, playfully pulling her cheeks

Rudraksh: "Offoo, tum kitni zyada masoom ho jaana."

(Oh dear, you’re so, so innocent)

Ruhanika’s eyes widened.

Ruhanika: "Jaana?? Hum ka..ha jaye?? Please hum...e mat bh..ejiye khud se dur."

(Leave? Where should we go? Please don’t send us away, don’t send us far from you.)

Rudraksh’s patience finally gave way, and instead of just smiling, he burst into hearty laughter at Ruhanika’s words and reactions. His laughter was genuine and carefree, filling the room with a contagious joy. Ruhanika, who had previously looked at him with a mix of confusion and apprehension, now regarded him with admiration. To her, he seemed incredibly handsome in that moment, his laughter like a soothing melody. Without realizing it, she began to smile, her deep dimples becoming more pronounced as she responded to the warmth and charm of his laughter.

Unbeknownst to Rudraksh and Ruhanika, they were being observed by three pairs of eyes. Amandeep and Rishwik had arrived home just a few minutes after Rudraksh, and they had paused in the living room when they saw Ashvik descending the stairs. Noticing the concern and tension etched on Rishwik and Amandeep's faces, Ashvik inquired about what had transpired in the den. They proceeded to explain the situation in detail, sharing everything that had happened. Meanwhile, the expressions of shock on Amandeep and Rishwik’s faces contrasted sharply with Ashvik’s, Ashvik was seething with anger towards Jayvardhan, his frustration palpable. Just then, they heard noises coming from Rudraksh's room. Without hesitation, the three of them rushed toward the door. As they reached the threshold and peeked inside, they were met with an astonishing sight: Rudraksh was laughing heartily. Amandeep and Ashvik could hardly believe their eyes. The sight of the towering, often stern, and commanding Rudraksh laughing so freely was completely unexpected to them. It was a rare glimpse of a side of him they had seldom seen. Meanwhile, Rishwik, observing the scene, felt a wave of emotion wash over him. Tears welled up in his eyes as he saw his brother, who had been cloaked in seriousness and anger for so long, finally allowing himself to laugh freely. It was a poignant moment, marking the return of a joy that had been absent for over a decade.

Rishwik quickly ran downstairs, his emotions overwhelming him. He reached the couch and, unable to hold back any longer, let out the tears he had been suppressing. His sobs were a mix of relief and joy, reflecting the deep emotional impact of seeing his brother so genuinely happy. Ashvik and Amandeep followed closely behind. Seeing Rishwik in distress, Ashvik immediately went to him, wrapping him in a comforting hug. He gently rubbed Rishwik’s back, trying to offer solace and support as Rishwik’s tears continued to flow.

Ashvik: "Yaar Rishwik, ye koi baat hai rone ki?? Khush hona chahiye na tujhe."

(Rishwik, why are you crying about this? You should be happy!)

Rishwik: "Ashvik bhai, aapne dekha?? Rudra bhai itne saalon baad hase."

(Ashvik bhai, did you see? Rudra bhai smiled after so many years.)

Ashvik smiled warmly at Rishwik. He saw Rishwik as his younger brother and understood that, despite his maturity, Rishwik still had a childlike innocence. Ashvik knew that both Rudraksh and Rishwik needed someone who could bring light into their often dark and troubled lives.  Ashvik hoped that perhaps Ruhanika was the one who could provide that light.

Rishwik: "Ashvik bhai, ab sab thik hoga na?? Aap, Aman, main, Rudra bhai aur humari choti si angel, hum sab saath me khush rahenge na bhai???"

(Ashvik bhai, everything will be okay now, right? You, Aman, me, Rudra bhai, and our little Angel—we'll all be happy together, right?)

Rishwik pulled back from the hug and looked at Ashvik with eyes full of childlike wonder. His face, streaked with tears, showed a mixture of hope and vulnerability.

Ashvik: "Sab khush rahenge, hum sab sath rahenge, aur ab ye Rona band kar ye kaam toh Angel ka hai na??"

(Everyone will be happy. We’ll all stay together. Now stop crying. Crying is Angel's job, not yours.)

Rishwik: "Nahi bhai main apni Angel ko rone nahi dunga, usme aaj bhai ko hasaya hai, use pata bhi nahi usne kya Kiya hai."

(No, bhai. I won't let my Angel cry. Today, she made bhai smile, and she doesn’t even know what she’s done.)

Ashvik responded with a gentle smile, and both he and Rishwik then looked over at Amandeep. Rishwik extended his hand towards Amandeep, who quickly moved in and embraced him. The two shared a heartfelt hug, with Rishwik smiling warmly as he patted Amandeep on the back.

Rishwik: "Yaar tu toh senty ho jaata hai, isliye bhai tujhse pyaar se baat nahi karte."

(Dude, you get so emotional. That's why bhai doesn't speak to you sweetly.)

Amandeep: "Rudra bhai mujhe pyaar karte hai main janta hu, utna hi kaafi hai Rishwik."

(Rudra bhai loves me, I know that, and that's enough for me, Rishwik.)

Amandeep gently pulled back from the hug and took a moment to wipe away his own tears.

Rishwik: "1 Mahine bada hu tujhse, bhai bol mujhe."

(I’m a month older than you, call me bhai.)

Amandeep: "Sir bolne ka natak kar leta hu, utne me khush reh, kahi teri harkatein bhai ko bata di toh..."

(Just pretend I call you sir and be happy with that. If I tell bhai about your antics...)

Rishwik: "Baat baat pe personal kya ho jaata hai??"

(Why do you have to get personal every time?)

Both Amandeep and Rishwik shared a moment of light-heartedness as they giggled and they embraced each other once more.

Ashvik: "Rudraksh ne dekh liya na ye bharat milaabh tum dono ka, aadhi raat ko beghar ho jaoge dono."

(If  Rudraksh, witness this great reunion of yours any longer, both of you will be homeless in the middle of the night.)

Rishwik and Amandeep both cast stern looks at Ashvik. Amandeep addressed Rudraksh as "Bhai"—what might be the reason for this?

Ruhanika, who had been admiring Rudraksh with a soft smile, suddenly felt a wave of sadness wash over her. Her expression shifted as tears began to well up in her eyes, and she clutched the bedsheet tightly. Rudraksh noticed the abrupt change in her demeanor, and his laughter immediately faded away. Concern replaced his earlier amusement as he observed the sadness in her eyes, understanding that something was troubling her deeply.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua bachcha??"

(What happened, baby?)

Ruhanika looked at Rudraksh with tearful eyes, and the sight of her distress made his heart ache. Gently, he placed his hands on her shoulders, offering both comfort.

Ruhanika: "Aa..pne kaha jaana, k..ya aap ph...ir hume ba...har bhej de..nge vo ... Vo aadmi... Aap saza de dijiye.... Par baa..har na....uhhhhuuuuu"

(You said to leave... Are you going to send me away ag...ain? Th...at man... Punish me, please... But don’t send me outsi...de... uhhhuuu...)

Ruhanika was in the middle of speaking when a sudden cough interrupted her. Rudraksh immediately wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close in a comforting hug. He gently rubbed her back.

Ruhanika: "Hu..m aa..pko..."

(I... you..)

Rudraksh: "Shhhh Betu, rote nahi."

( Shhh, baby, don’t cry.)

Rudraksh carefully pulled back from the hug and tenderly wiped away Ruhanika's tears with his thumbs. He then cupped her face in his hands, his gaze remained soft as he looked into her eyes.

Rudraksh: "Aeee bahar di duniya vaddi zaalim hai taude vaaste, tussi humesha mere naal, mere kol ravangi."

(the world outside is too cruel for you. You’ll always stay with me, close to me.)

Ruhanika looked at Rudraksh with a mix of confusion and lingering tears. Seeing the confusion in Ruhanika’s eyes, Rudraksh's smile grew warmer and more reassuring. He gently brushed a stray tear from her cheek.

Rudraksh: "Tumhe kahi nahi bhej raha main, tum humesha mere pass rahogi."

(I’m not sending you anywhere. You’ll always stay with me.)

Ruhanika’s smile seemed to brighten the room, and seeing her light up like that, Rudraksh couldn't help but mirror her joy. His own smile grew wider.

Ruhanika: "Aa.ap, sa..ch keh rahe hai na??"

(Are you saying the truth?)

Rudraksh: "Kyu bharosa nahi mujhe??"

(Why? Don’t you trust me?)

Ruhanika: "H...ai, bahaut hai."

(I do, a lot.)

As Rudraksh leaned in to gently kiss Ruhanika's forehead, a soft and tender gesture, she suddenly recalled something important. Her expression shifted from serene to one of mild concerns.

Ruhanika: "Areh ha, ky...a aapka Darr Gaya??? A..gar n..ahi toh hum aa..pko phir se k..isse dede??"

(Oh wait, has your fear go...ne away now? If not, should I give you another kis...sie?)

Rudraksh felt a wave of shyness wash over him, his earlier confidence now replaced by a mix of hesitation and awkwardness. While he didn't want to outright deny his feelings or the significance of the moment, he also found it difficult to fully embrace or articulate them.

Rudraksh: "Main thik hu yellow."

(I’m fine, Yellow.)

Ruhanika: "Kuch p...uche hum??"

(Can I ask you something?)

Ruhanika and Rudraksh sat facing each other, their hands intertwined.

Rudraksh: "Shuru ho gaye sawaal."

(Oh, here come the questions.)

Ruhanika: "Nahi puche???"

(Should I not ask?)

Rudraksh chuckled.

Rudraksh: "Puch lo"

(Go ahead, ask.)

Ruhanika: "Aapne jaana ka..ha, ag..ar hum..e kahi nahi bhej r...ahe toh hu..m kaha jye??"

(You said you’re not sending me away, so where will I go? )

Rudraksh found himself in a dilemma, trying to figure out how to explain the meaning of "Jaana" to his curious little lady.

Ruhanika: "A..ur aapn..e kaha aap rakshas ko s..aza denge. Toh kya.. aap hum...e bhi saza denge, hu..m galti k..arenge toh??"

(And you said you’ll punish the demon... Will you punish me too if I make a mist...ake?)

Rudraksh smiled warmly and gently cupped Ruhanika’s face in his hands.

Rudraksh: "Main kabhi tumhe sazaa nahi de paunga."

( I could never punish you.)

Ruhanika: "Toh h..um galti karenge tab??"

(So, what if I make a mistake then?)

Rudraksh: "Insaan galtiyo se hi sikhta hai, phir bhi agar tumhe kabhi lage ki main gussa hu toh tum apni ye meethi si muskaan dikha dena main Maan jaunga."

(People learn from their mistakes. But if you ever feel like I’m angry, just show me that sweet little smile of yours, and I’ll forgive you.)

Ruhanika’s smile widened, her expression brightening.

Ruhanika: "Sachchi??"

(Really)

Rudraksh nodded in acknowledgment, but Ruhanika’s face remained a mix of confusion and curiosity. Noticing her bewilderment, Rudraksh shook his head with a gentle smile, realizing that he had to be clearer to bridge the gap in her understanding.

Rudraksh: "Ab kya hua tumhe yellow??"

(What is it now, Yellow?)

Ruhanika: "Aapne k..aha, hum..ari muskaan me..ethi hai."

(You said my smile is sweet.)

Rudraksh: "Hmm"

Ruhanika: "Aa..pne kab chakha hume???"

(When did you tas...te me?)

Rudraksh’s eyes widened as he struggled to understand why Ruhanika was asking such seemingly innocent but not so innocent and complex questions. Her genuine curiosity made it clear that she expected a thoughtful response. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, trying to navigate the unexpected depth of her query while maintaining his composure.

Ruhanika: "Bataiye."

(Tell me.)

Rudraksh: "Ahh vo.."

Ruhanika: "Pata hai jab Ni..ma thi na tab vo hume baha...ut kissie deti thi au..r kehti thi hum bah..aut meethe hai."

(You know, when Nima was here, she used to give me lots of kissies and say I was really sweet.)

As Ruhanika reminisced about her grandmother, a warm smile spread across her face. Seeing her smile, Rudraksh couldn’t help but mirror her expression, his own smile blooming in response to her happiness.

Ruhanika: "Pa..r aapne toh... Achcha haa"

(But you... Oh wait, now I get it.)

Rudraksh: "Kyaa??"

(What?)

Ruhanika: "Aa..pne kayi baar h..ume yaha, m..aathe pe kissie di hai, ta...bhi pata chala na??"

(You’ve given me kisses on my fore...head many times, so that’s how you found out, right?)

Rudraksh suddenly remembered how often he had kissed Ruhanika's forehead without thinking much of it. He realized that this can be an effective way to avoid answering her probing questions.

Rudraksh: "Ha tabhi pata chala."

(Yes, that’s how I found out.)

Ruhanika's confusion still persisted. Her eyes remained fixed on Rudraksh.

Rudraksh: "Ab kya??"

(Now what?)

Ruhanika: "Ab..hi humne aapko k..issie di, par hum..e swaad kyu nahi aaya???"

(I just gave you a kissie, but why didn’t I tast...e anything?)

Rudraksh's face was turning red again. In just a few minutes, this innocent girl, who seemed to know so little, had managed to make him blush once more. He was surprised at how her simple presence and questions had such a powerful effect on him, causing him to feel embarrassed and flustered in a way he hadn’t anticipated.

Rudraksh: "Ahh voo dekho, main na thak gaya hu mujhe nind aa rahi hai. Aur tum kya aise itni raat ko ullu bani ho so kyu nahi rahi??"

(Oh, look, I’m feeling so tired now, I’m getting sleepy. And why are you still up so late, like an owl? Why aren’t you sleeping?)

Ruhanika pouted and responded with a hint of sadness in her voice.

Ruhanika: "Hum n..ind me ake...le Darr rahe hai, hume n..ahi Sona."

(I’m scared when I sleep alone. I don’t want to sleep.)

Rudraksh: "Aise kaise nahi Sona?? Araam toh karna padega na betu, thik hona hai na??"

( How can you not sleep? You need to rest, right? You want to get better, don’t you?)

Ruhanika: "Par hu..m a..kele Darr rahe hai, aa..p s..oyenge humare sath k..al ki tarah???"

(But I’m scared alone. Will you sleep with me like you did last night?)

Rudraksh was unsure and conflicted. The doctors had advised him not to leave Ruhanika alone, especially since she had been having nightmares. He knew that these nightmares could have a serious impact on her well-being, and the thought of her suffering in any way was something he couldn't handle.

Rudraksh: "Thik hai tum araam Karo, main kapde badal ke aata hu."

(Okay, you rest. I’ll go change and be right back.)

Ruhanika smiled and nodded.

Ruhanika: "Jii hum in...tezaar karenge."

(Yes, I’ll wait for you.)

Rudraksh felt a surge of warmth in his chest as he saw Ruhanika's smile. Her words, promising to wait for him, touched him deeply each time. They filled him with a unique sense of happiness he hadn't experienced in past few years. He had gone into the washroom, and when he emerged, he was dressed in casual sweatpants and a loose vest. Ruhanika, meanwhile, was still sitting on the bed, visibly frustrated as she struggled with the sleeves of Rudraksh's shirt. She had always worn Indian suits and wasn’t accustomed to handling with these kinds of shirts. Her nose was slightly red from the effort and annoyance. After a few minutes of futile attempts, she huffed in exasperation and let the sleeves fall. Rudraksh, trying to suppress a chuckle, approached her with a gentle smile. He sat down beside her on the bed, and her face lit up with a smile as she saw him.

Rudraksh: "Main kar du??"

( Should I do it?)

Ruhanika nodded eagerly and extended her hands toward Rudraksh. He smiled at her gesture and carefully folded the sleeves of the shirt for her.

Ruhanika: "A..ap kaise ka..r lete hai, hum..se kyu nahi hota??"

(H...ow do you do it? W...hy can't I?)

Rudraksh: "Koi baat nahi main hu na."

(It's okay, I’m here.)

Ruhanika smiled and nodded. Rudraksh noticed that Ruhanika's sweatpants were much too long for her, practically swallowing her feet. Her cuteness made him smile, and he decided to help her by folding the excess fabric. However, as he reached for her legs to adjust the sweatpants, Ruhanika instinctively pulled them back, her expression one of surprise and slight discomfort. Rudraksh sensed that she might be feeling uncomfortable.

Rudraksh: "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. It's just that they're too long for your legs, so I..."

Rudraksh was speaking rapidly, trying to explain everything all in one breath, but Ruhanika interrupted him.

Ruhanika: "A...ap hum..are pair nahi chu s..akte."

(Y..ou c..an't t..ouch my feet.)

Rudraksh stopped speaking and looked at Ruhanika.

Rudraksh: "Huh??"

Ruhanika: "A..ap pa..ti hai hum..are aap pair nahi chu sa..kte."

(You are my husband, you can't touch my feet)

Rudraksh mentally face-palmed himself.

Rudraksh: "Ab ye bakwas kisne sikhayi hai tumhe, Nima ne??"

(Who taught you this nonsense? Was it Nima?)

Ruhanika: "N..ahi, Mami bata rhi thi sh..adi se pehle.")

(N..o, auntie told me before the wedding.)

Rudraksh: "Bakwaas hai ye, tumhari mami ne jo jo bola hai bhul jao, Samjhi??"

(Forget what your auntie said; it's all nonsense, okay?)

Ruhanika was confused but nodded, as she felt it was important to follow her husband’s lead, a value her grandmother had instilled in her. Rudraksh then gently folded the sweatpants, taking care to make sure they were adjusted properly.

Ruhanika: "Aap ba..haut thake se l..ag rahe hai."

(You look v..ery t..ired.)

Rudraksh: "Hmm"

Rudraksh replied while sitting back down beside her.

Ruhanika: "Kya hum aa..pke sar pe ma..lish kar de?? Aapko ac..hchi nind aayegi."

(Should I m..assage y..our head? You’ll s..leep b..etter.)

Rudraksh smiled and gently patted her cheeks.

Rudraksh: "Nahi bachcha tum so jao, main thik hu. Aur main yahi couch pe so Raha hu, kuch bhi chahiye toh mujhe utha dena, khud nahi utarna niche thik hai??"

( No, sweetheart, you should sleep. I'm fine. And I’ll sleep right here on the couch. If you need anything, just wake me up. Don’t get down on your own, okay?)

Rudraksh spoke while grabbing a pillow and getting up from the bed. However, Ruhanika reached out and held his hand. He looked at her, noticing that she was already gazing at him with hopeful eyes.

Rudraksh: "Kya??"

(What?)

Ruhanika: "Hum..e ak..ele Darr lagta hai."

(I g..et scared w..hen I’m alone.)

Rudraksh: "Ha toh main bahar nahi ja raha, yahi couch pe hu dekho vaha."

(Well, I’m not going anywhere; I’ll be right here on the couch, see?)

Rudraksh, holding the pillow in one hand and with Ruhanika’s hand in his other, pointed towards the couch with his eyes. Ruhanika followed his gaze and then looked back at him, with hope.

Ruhanika: "Nahi vo ba..haut dur hai, aa..p yahi so..iye, humare pass, aur ye bis..tar bhi k..itna bada hai, hum aur aap d..o..no aa jayenge."

(N..o, that’s t..oo far. Y..ou s..hould sleep r..ight h..ere, next to me. And this b..ed is b..ig enough for both of us.)

Rudraksh: "Par betu main Kaise matlab tu nahi samajh rahi."

(But, sweetheart, how can I? I mean, you don’t understand.)

Ruhanika: "kaise matlab?? n..ima bh..i soti thi hum..are sath, aap fi..kr mat k..ijiye hum hath p..air nahi maarte."

(W..hy not? Nima u..sed to s..leep with me. Don’t w..orry, I w..on’t k..ick in my sleep.)

Rudraksh: "Ab tumhe dono ka farak kaise batau?"

(How do I explain the difference to you?)

She looked at him with innocent, hopeful eyes, and that was all it took—Rudraksh melted.

Rudraksh: "Achcha thik hai yahi so Raha hu. Tum us taraf main is taraf, thik??"

(Okay, fine, I’ll sleep here. You stay on that side, and I’ll stay on this side, alright?)

She nodded, her eyes shining with hope. Rudraksh placed the pillow back in its proper position and then helped Ruhanika lie down on the bed. Gently, he covered her with the duvet, ensuring she was c.omfortable and warm. After making sure she was settled, he lay down beside her, maintaining a respectful distance, allowing her space while still being close enough.

Ruhanika: "Umm k..ya hu..m aapka hath p..akad sakte hai?? Hu..me aise nind na..ahi aa rahi."

(Umm, c..an I h..old your hand? I can’t f..all asleep otherwise.)

Rudraksh glanced at her, unable to deny her request, and simply blinked his eyes in response. Ruhanika's smile widened as she reached out and placed her hand in his palm. The warmth of her hand brought a sense of safety and comfort, and she looked at him, her dimples making her even more endearing to him. Rudraksh couldn’t help but admire their intertwined hands, marveling at how her delicate, soft fingers fit perfectly against his rough, calloused ones.

Ruhanika: "Suniye"

(Listen)

Rudraksh: "Dasso ji"

Ruhanika: "Ky...a ?? K..ya hum das baar so ja... ye??"

(What?? Should I sleep ten times?)

Rudraksh chuckled softly and shook his head with a smile. They lay side by side on the bed, facing each other. Gently, Rudraksh reached out and caressed her cheek with his free hand.

Rudraksh: "Mera matlab hai ki kahiye"

(I mean, yess say)

Ruhanika: "A..ap ne a..ise aadhe a..dhure kapde kyu pehne??"

(W..hy are y..ou w..earing h..alf-dressed clothes?)

Rudraksh’s eyes widened in surprise. He had made an effort to show some decency by wearing a vest over his sweatpants while she was in his room, and now she was saying he was half-dressed.

Rudraksh: "Kya matlab hai tumhara?? Tumhe mere kapade dikh nahi rahe hai???"

(What do you mean? Can’t you see my clothes?)

Ruhanika: "Hum..Ara matlab, aapka ha..ath Dhaka n..ahi hai, aap..ko thand l..ag jayegi."

( I m..ean, y..our arm isn’t c..overed. Y..ou’ll c..atch a c..old.)

Rudraksh's heart melted at her concern. The genuine care in her voice touched him deeply.

Rudraksh: "Nahi lagegi thand mujhe, tum so jao araam se."

(I won’t get cold, don’t worry. Just go to sleep.)

Ruhanika: "Ek aur s..awaal puche??"

(C..an I ask one more question?)

Rudraksh: "Pehle tum mere sawaal ka jawab do. Tum toh bolti nahi thi na?? Aur ab bolna shuru kiya toh chup nahi rehti hu sawalon ki dukaan laga deti ho, gale me dard nahi hota kya??"

(First, you answer my question. You used to not talk at all, right? But now that you’ve started, you don’t stop. Doesn’t your throat hurt?)

Ruhanika lowered her eyes, her grip on Rudraksh’s hand tightening slightly. Rudraksh felt the increased pressure and looked at her, waiting for her to speak.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua betu??"

(What’s wrong, sweetheart?)

Ruhanika: "Hum..are gale me d..ard toh hota hai, pa..r hum bolna cha..hte hai. Humne N..ima ke jaane k..e baad bol..na band kar d..kya kyuki koi su..nna nahi chahta tha, k.. isi ko ehsaas tak nahi hua ki ab.. hum b..olte nahi. Par aap hu..Mari sunte hai, hu..me mehsoos h..ota hai ki hum jit..na bhi bole..nge aap s..unenge baa..kio ki tarah gussa nahi k..arenge."

(M..y throat d..oes hurt, b..ut I want to t..alk. After Nima left, I s..topped talking because n..o one w..anted to l..isten. No one e..ven n..oticed I w..asn’t speaking anymore. B..ut you listen. I f..eel like I c..an say as m..uch as I w..ant and y..ou’ll listen. Y..ou w..on’t get angry like the others.)

A lone tear escaped Ruhanika's eye as she spoke about her days in the Rathore mansion. Despite the sadness in her words, she managed to smile warmly at Rudraksh, finding comfort in his presence.

Ruhanika: "Ha pe..hle aapne gussa k..iya toh hume l..aga aap bhi b..aakio jaise hai. Par ja..b se aap hume va..pas le aaye hai. Aap g..ussa nahi k..arte. Aap Jan..te hai hu..me aapke pass na surak..shit mehsoos hota hai."

(Y..eah, at first y..ou did get angry, so I thought y..ou were like the others too. But e..ver since y..ou brought me b..ack, y..ou haven’t been angry with me. D..o you know? I f..eel safe w..hen I’m w..ith you.)

Rudraksh listened intently to Ruhanika’s words and the emotions she conveyed. He could feel her pain and sadness deeply and was overwhelmed with guilt for having neglected this pure and innocent soul for an entire week.

Ruhanika: "Isiliye agar a...apko ka..bhi humpe gu..ssa aaye na toh aa..p bhi hume ka..mre me band k..ar dena, par ka..bhi dur mat bhejna."

(So, if y..ou ever do g..et mad at me, you can l..ock me in the r..oom, but p..lease never send me away.)

Rudraksh realized that those despicable people had used to lock her up as a form of punishment. He mentally made a note to deal with them later, but now was not the right time to focus on that. He wanted to learn more about her past, but it wasn’t the right moment to delve into her old wounds, especially when she was so vulnerable both physically and emotionally. He gently caressed her cheek again.

Rudraksh: "Main kabhi tumpe gussa nahi karunga jaana, maine kaha na tum sirf muskura dena aur mera gussa gayab."

(I'll never be angry with you, sweetheart. I told you, if you just smile, my anger will disappear.)

Ruhanika: "Phir ..se.. jaana?? Areh hum ka..ha jaye??"

(There y..ou go again, saying "Jaan"! W..here am I supposed to g..o?)

Rudraksh chuckled softly, his mood lightening a bit despite the seriousness of their conversation.

Rudraksh: "Tum na abhi gehri nind me jao, bahaut bolti ho tum thoda gale ko bhi araam do."

(You need to go into a deep sleep now. You’ve been talking too much, give your throat a rest.)

Ruhanika: "par hum..are sawa..al ka ja.."

(But w..hat about my q..uestion...)

Rudraksh: "Ha sawaal bhi bahaut puchti ho, par ab bas aaj ke liye itna kaafi tha baaki kal ha? Chalo so jao."

(You ask a lot of questions! That’s enough for today. We’ll save the rest for tomorrow, okay? Now, go to sleep.)

Ruhanika couldn’t muster any more questions as Rudraksh gently patted her head, lulling her to sleep and she drifted off into a peaceful sleep. Sensing her restlessness, Rudraksh leaned in to place a tender kiss on her forehead before settling beside her. Their hands remained entwined as he found a comfortable position next to her. A short while later, Ruhanika, still in the grip of sleep, began to feel a chill. Instinctively, she sought warmth and moved closer to Rudraksh. Gradually, she nestled against him, resting her head on his chest and wrapping her arms around his torso. Her face nuzzled into the crook of his neck, and her legs entwined with his, seeking comfort and closeness. Even though Rudraksh was half-asleep, he sensed the shift in position and the added warmth from Ruhanika's proximity. With a soft smile spreading across his face, he adjusted slightly to accommodate her, savoring the serene moment of intimacy.

Rudraksh: "Hath pair nahi marti ye bata diya, par nind me chipak jaati ho ye bhi batana chahiye na betu?"

(You said you don’t kick in your sleep, but you didn’t mention that you snuggle up to me. Shouldn’t you have told me that too, sweetheart?)

Rudraksh kissed Ruhanika's head once more, then wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. The warmth and security they provided each other seemed to soothe their weary souls. They both drifted off to sleep, nestled in each other's arms, finding solace and peace despite the chaos that surrounded their lives. Unaware of their intimate position, they rested peacefully, comforted by each other’s presence.

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A chapter filled with innocence, care, and plenty of dialogues. I hope you all enjoy it!

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