"22. Embracd with Care"

"Ab aisa koi lamha na ho

Jisme tu mere sath na ho

Mujhe vo zindagi gawara nahi

Jab mere hathon me tera hath na ho"

-fictionflare_

(Ruhanika)

Two young boys, one around 10 years old and the other about 8, were racing across the grassy expanse of the park, their laughter filling the air. Their joyful giggles echoed as a woman,  chased them with playful determination. She was close on their heels but let them slip away on purpose, teasing them with exaggerated huffs as they darted in two different directions. The boys, full of energy, zigzagged to escape her grasp, their faces beaming with delight. Suddenly, the woman paused, her playful demeanor shifting as she dramatically slumped down onto the grass, feigning sadness. She sat there with a pout, pretending to sulk. The boys noticed immediately, their carefree sprint coming to an abrupt stop as they turned to look at her. Concern flickered across their faces, and they started running toward her, eager to console her. But before they could reach her, an abrupt and terrifying change swept over the park. The boys’ wide eyes reflected the blaze as their chests heaved with panic. The playful scene had turned into a nightmare. Their breath became uneven as they looked around, desperately searching for an escape or a way to help. They reached for each other’s hands, hearts pounding, but before they could move, everything suddenly went black. The vibrant park and the fiery chaos vanished in an instant, leaving them in terrifying, silent darkness.

Rudraksh jolted awake, his heart pounding in his chest as he gasped for air. Sweat trickled down his forehead, remnants of the terrifying nightmare clinging to his mind. The room, usually serene, now felt thick with the echoes of his uneven breathing. He sat up, grabbing the glass of water from the side table, and gulped it down in one swift motion, hoping to calm his racing heart. As he placed the empty glass back, his eyes instinctively drifted to the other side of the bed. To his confusion, the space beside him was empty. He frowned, the unsettling quiet of the room amplifying his unease. Where had Ruhanika gone?

Rudraksh: "Ye Ruhhh is waqt kaha ja sakti hai"

(Where could Ruhhh be at this time?)

Still feeling the lingering tension from the nightmare,  Rudraksh pushed the duvet aside with urgency, hequickly swung his legs over the edge of the bed stood up, and slipped into his slippers.  ust as he was about to walk away, his eyes fell on the bed—there, on the pristine white bedsheet, was a red stain. His heart sank instantly as realization dawned upon him. Ruhanika. His worry intensified, knowing that she must be dealing with this alone and must be experiencing discomfort. His heart raced at the thought.  Without wasting another second, he rushed toward the closet, his eyes scanning for any sign of her. His gaze shifted quickly to the washroom door, and he hurried over, knocking gently but firmly on the door.

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh, betu andar hai aap??"

(Ruhhh, sweetheart, are you inside?)

Ruhanika: "Jiii"

(Yes!)

Ruhanika's voice trembled with pain, and Rudraksh immediately sensed her inner turmoil.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, bachcha dekho basin ke side me ek cabinet hai na."

(Ruhh, sweetie, look beside the sink. There’s a cabinet there, right?)

Ruhanika: "Hmm"

Rudraksh: "Use open Karo, usme tumhare Zarurat ki sari cheezein hai."

(Open it. Everything you need is in there.)

Ruhanika: "Jii kya??"

(What exactly?)

Rudraksh: "Open Karo betu, aur dekho. Take your time main bahar hi hu, fresh clothes chahiye??"

(Just open it, sweetheart, and see. Take your time, I’m right outside. Do you need fresh clothes?)

Ruhanika: "Nahi, vo hum le aaye hai."

(No, I’ve already got some.)

Rudraksh: "Okay."

He stepped back into the room.

Rudraksh: "achcha hua maine sanitary items bhi arrange kar diye the, Ruhh ke kapde lete waqt."

(Good thing I had also arranged sanitary items when I was getting Ruhh’s clothes.)

Rudraksh quickly changed the bedsheets, his movements efficient as he wanted everything to feel fresh and comforting for Ruhanika. Once he had everything in place, he sat down on the edge of the bed and reached for his phone, his mind racing with concern for her well-being. He knew all too well that periods could be painful for women, and the sound of Ruhanika’s voice earlier had conveyed just how much discomfort she was in. Determined to help her, he began to research ways to alleviate her pain. With a few quick taps, he delved into articles that discussed menstrual symptoms and remedies. The information poured in, revealing the common struggles women face during this time: intense cramps, mood swings, and cravings for certain foods.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh ko kya cravings ho sakti hai??"

(What cravings could Ruhh have?)

He found himself lost in thought, reflecting on Ruhanika's favorite things

Rudraksh: "Chocolates yess, meetha bahaut khati hai chocolate le aata hu."

(Chocolates, yes. She eats a lot of sweets. I’ll bring some chocolate.)

As Rudraksh stood up to leave the room, he suddenly caught sight of Ruhanika emerging from the closet. She looked pale, her usual vibrancy dulled by discomfort. Instantly, his heart raced with concern. He hurried toward her, grasping her hand gently with one of his while placing the other reassuringly on her shoulder. Carefully, he guided her to the bed, helping her sit down as he settled in front of her, his heart aching at the sight of her distress. He looked deeply into her eyes, searching for any signs of what she might be feeling.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, dard ho raha hai zyada??"

(Ruhh, is the pain bad?)

Ruhanika: "Aapko kaise pata??"

(How do you know?)

Ruhanika asked, her eyes downcast and avoiding his gaze. Her voice was barely above a whisper. She hesitated, struggling to find the right words.

Rudraksh: "Kya kaise pata Ruhh?"

(How do I know what, Ruhh?)

Ruhanika: "Vo.. inhi sabke baare me, humara matlab aapne sari cheezein la kar rakhi hai, toh aap kaise jante hai??"

(About all this… I mean, you had everything ready. How do you know?)

Rudraksh: "It's normal bachcha, aur yaha dekho meri taraf, sharmane ki zarurat nahi hai tumhe."

(It’s normal, sweetheart. And look at me—there’s no need for you to be shy.)

Ruhanika slowly lifted her gaze to meet Rudraksh's, and he instinctively cupped her face in his hands, concern etched on his features. He could see the shimmer of tears threatening to spill from her eyes, and his heart ached at the sight.

Rudraksh: "Ruuhhh, dard ho raha hai kya betu??"

(Ruhhh, is it really hurting, sweetie?)

Ruhanika's lips trembled as she nodded, a mixture of distress and discomfort washing over her. She instinctively clutched her stomach, a wave of cramps hitting her hard, causing her to wince. The pain was evident in her eyes, and Rudraksh's heart sank as he watched her struggle.

Rudraksh: "Ummm, dard kaise jayega?? Chocolate khaogi??"

(Ummm, how can we ease the pain? Want to eat some chocolate?)

Ruhanika: "Nahi hum kuch bhi nahi kha payenge."

(No, I don’t feel like eating anything.)

Rudraksh: "Achcha tum na araam se let jao, main dekhta hu kuch."

(Okay, you just lie down comfortably. I’ll figure something out.)

Rudraksh gently helped Ruhanika lie down, but she instinctively turned onto her side, pulling her knees up toward her chest. The expression on her face clearly indicated that the pain was overwhelming, a sharp reminder of the discomfort that often accompanies her menstrual cycle. The doctors had already informed Rudraksh that, due to the medication she was taking, Ruhanika's periods might be delayed and, when they did arrive, she would likely experience severe cramps. He recalled their advice that painkillers were not advisable during this time, leaving him feeling helpless as he watched her suffer.

Rudraksh: "Betu, suno main na abhi tumhare liye herbal tea leke aata hu, and a hot water bag, tumhe araam milega okay??"

(Sweetheart, listen, I’ll bring you some herbal tea and a hot water bag. That’ll help you feel better, okay?)

Ruhanika merely nodded, but Rudraksh could see the distress etched on her face. Understanding that she was in considerable pain from the severe cramps, he quickly covered her with the duvet, ensuring she felt warm and secure. Without wasting a moment, he dashed out of the room.

In Kartavya's room,

Kartavya was down on his knees, his hands gripping his ears in a playful gesture of apology, his expression a mix of earnestness and regret. Savisha sat on the bed, her back turned to him, intentionally avoiding eye contact.

Kartavya: "Isha yaar, Mahiye, Maan bhi jao. Main call karan hi wala si, par is Rishwik ne sadde vich aag la ditti hai!"

( Isha, Mahiye, come on now, don’t stay mad. I was about to call, but Rishwik got in between and caused trouble!)

Savisha: "Rishwik nu beech vich na leke aayo tusi, ik ta bina dassan yitho aa gaye, menu chhad ke, te hun safaiyan de rahe ho."

(Don’t bring Rishwik into this. First, you came here without telling me, and now you're giving excuses.)

Kartavya shifted closer and wrapped his arms around Savisha, pulling her into a warm embrace. He nestled his chin atop her head, feeling the soft strands of her hair against his cheek.

Kartavya: "Achha daso, tusi kis tarike de naal manogi hun?"

(Alright, tell me, how can I make it up to you?)

Before Savisha could respond, a series of persistent knocks echoed through the room, interrupting the moment. The sound was urgent and unwavering, pulling both of their attention away from their conversation. Kartavya glanced at Savisha, raising an eyebrow in curiosity, and then turned toward the door, wondering who could be so eager to get their attention

Savisha: "jaake darwaza kholiye pehle."

(First, go and open the door.)

Kartavya: "Hun kon aa gaya eh vele? Je Rishwik hoya, taan ajj isdi khair nahi!"

(Who could it be at this hour? If it’s Rishwik, he's in trouble tonight!)

Savisha shot Kartavya a sharp glare, her frustration evident, prompting him to stand up silently. With a slight sigh, he made his way to the door.

Savisha: "Wait."

Savisha tossed her t-shirt at Kartavya's face, but he deftly dodged it just in time.

Savisha: "Kapde taan pa lo, husn pradarshan da copyright taan mera hai!"

(Put some clothes on first. The rights to the beauty show are mine!)

Kartavya smirked at Savisha's playful glare but quickly composed himself as he slipped his t-shirt back on. He opened the door to find Rudraksh standing there, his expression tight with tension. The contrast between Kartavya's playful demeanor and Rudraksh's serious look was stark, instantly shifting the mood in the room.

Kartavya: "Rudraksh, kya hua is waqt tujhe??"

(Rudraksh, what happened? Why are you here at this hour?)

Rudraksh: "Sorry Bhai, but bhabhi ki thodi help chahiye thi."

(Sorry, bro, but I need some help from bhabhi.)

Savisha peeked from behind Kartavya, her curiosity piqued by Rudraksh's tense demeanor.

Savisha: "Kya hua Rudraksh bhai??"

( What’s wrong, Rudraksh?)

Rudraksh: "Sorry bhabhi, maine Kritika ke kamre ko bhi knock kiya par vo so gayi hai."

(Sorry, bhabhi, I knocked on Kritika’s door too, but she’s already asleep.)

Savisha: "Koi baat nahi kahiye na aapko kya kaam hai??"

(No worries, tell me what you need.)

Rudraksh: "Actually bhabhi, Ruhh got her periods, and use bahaut dard ho raha hai bhabhi, aapke pass hot water bag hoga kya?? And main kya karu uska pain kum karne ke liye, vo kuch kha bhi nahi rahi."

(Actually, bhabhi, Ruhh got her period, and she’s in a lot of pain. Do you have a hot water bag? Also, what can I do to ease her pain? She’s not eating anything.)

Savisha: "Relax bhai, firstly nahi kha rahi toh zabardasti nahi karna Varna bloating ho jayegi, and I don't have hot water bag with me, but yeah you can massage her lower abdomen with lavender oil. It will help relieve her pain"

(Relax, Rudraksh. If she’s not eating, don’t force her; otherwise, she’ll get bloated. I don’t have a hot water bag with me, but you can massage her lower abdomen with lavender oil. It will help relieve her pain.)

Rudraksh: "Bhabhi, main hot water bag jaake le aata hu, aap Ruhh ke pass rahengi kuch der??"

(Bhabhi, I’ll go get the hot water bag. Can you stay with Ruhh for a bit?)

Rishwik: "Bhai main le aata hu, aap Angel ke pass rahiye."

(Bro, I’ll get it. You stay with Angel.)

Rudraksh turned slightly to see Ashvik and Rishwik approaching, their expressions mirroring the tension in the air. Ashvik’s brows were furrowed in worry, while Rishwik’s face was a mix of concern and determination.

Kartavya: "Tum dono soye nahi abhi tak??"

(You two are still up?)

Ashvik: "Video games khel rahe the, anyways Rudraksh kya kya chahiye bol, hum le aate hai."

(We were playing video games. Anyway, Rudraksh, tell us what you need. We’ll go get it.)

Rudraksh: "Bhabhi hot water bag, what else??"

Kartavya: "hot water bag, dark chocolates, ice cream, herbal tea bags, some relaxing oil, and yeah Rudraksh keep her hydrated, and no caffeine, aur umm Mahiye anything else??"

(Hot water bag, dark chocolates, ice cream, herbal tea bags, some relaxing oil, and yeah, Rudraksh, make sure she stays hydrated, and no caffeine. Umm, Mahiye, anything else?)

Savisha smiled warmly at Kartavya, appreciating how well he understood her needs. She shook her head, amused by how he had always been attentive during her periods, learning just the right things to do to make her comfortable. Rishwik and Ashvik exchanged knowing glances, mentally noting everything they had witnessed before dashing off to gather the necessary supplies.

Meanwhile, back in Rudraksh and Ruhanika’s room, Rudraksh returned to find Ruhanika struggling to find a comfortable position in bed. She was clutching her stomach, shifting from one side to the other in obvious discomfort. The sight of her pale face, with tear stains lingering on her cheeks, pierced his heart. With urgency in his step, Rudraksh headed to the closet and retrieved a bottle of oil. He returned to her side, concern etched across his face. Sitting beside her, he gently caressed her head, his touch soothing and comforting.

Rudraksh: "Betu??"

(Sweetheart)

Ruhanika gazed up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of vulnerability and comfort. Slowly, she rested her head on his lap, seeking solace in his presence.

Ruhanika: "Is baar bahaut dard ho raha hai."

(It’s hurting a lot this time.)

Rudraksh was once again engulfed by a wave of guilt, a heavy weight settling in his chest. He couldn't shake the thought that if he hadn’t insisted on her leaving the house, she wouldn’t have been injured, and she wouldn’t have to endure the discomfort and side effects from the medication. The thought weighed heavily on him, filling him with a profound sense of regret. He continued to caress her head gently, hoping to soothe her as best as he could. The warmth of his hand against her hair seemed to bring her a tiny bit of comfort. Leaning down, he pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, a silent promise that he would do everything in his power to take care of her.

Rudraksh: "Achcha Ruhh, listen ye lavender oil hai, isse tumhe thoda sa araam milega betu, toh kya..k..ya main massage k..ar sa...kya hua, tumhare umm pet pe??"

(Okay, Ruhh, listen, this is lavender oil. It’ll give you some relief. So, umm…can I…umm, can I massage your abdomen?)

Ruhanika: "Aap karenge??"

(You’ll do it?)

Ruhanika lifted her gaze to meet Rudraksh's eyes.

Rudraksh: "Koi baat nahi, agar tum uncomfortable ho toh bhabhi k..."

(If you’re uncomfortable, bhabhi c–)

Ruhanika: "Ji nahi, humara matlab hai ki aap karenge aap humari vajah se jage hai is waqt."

( No, no, I mean you’ll do it. You’ve stayed up because of me.)

Rudraksh: "Chup paglu, kuch bhi sochti ho, aur mujhe bhi pagal kar deti ho."

(Silly girl, you think too much and make me crazy too.)

Ruhanika frowned, her brows knitting together in confusion. Rudraksh, noticing her distress, gently caressed her cheeks with his warm hand, his touch soothing and reassuring.

Rudraksh: "kuch nahi, chalo ab thik se let jao, main massage karta hu."

(It’s okay. Now lie down properly, and I’ll give you a massage.)

Ruhanika nodded in agreement, feeling the gentle warmth of Rudraksh’s presence. He carefully assisted her in lying down comfortably, making sure she was settled. Once she was in position, he covered her with the duvet up to her waist, ensuring she felt cozy and secure. After making sure she was comfortable, Rudraksh paused for a moment, looking at her with a mixture of concern and affection.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, I'm gonna lift up your kurti a little. Don't worry main aakhein band kar lunga, phir bhi tumhe uncomfortable feel ho toh bata dena okay??"

(Ruhh, I’m going to lift your kurti a little. Don’t worry, I’ll close my eyes. But if you feel uncomfortable, just let me know, okay?)

Ruhanika: "Aapko aakhein band karne ki zarurat nahi hai, aur hum kyu asahaj mehsoos karenge??"

(You don’t need to close your eyes, and why would I feel uncomfortable?)

Rudraksh: "Kya karenge??"

(What did you say?)

Ruhanika: "Asahaj, humara matlab hai, uncomfortable."

(Uncomfortable—I mean, why would I feel uncomfortable?)

Rudraksh: "Ohh, achcha ab baatein band okay, tum sone ki koshish karo."

(Oh, okay. Now, no more talking, just try to sleep.)

She nodded and closed her eyes, surrendering herself to the moment. Rudraksh poured some oil into his palm, warming it slightly before gently lifting the hem of Ruhanika's kurti to begin massaging her abdomen. Every motion was deliberate and tender, driven by a singular focus: to provide her with relief. As he worked, he was acutely aware of the softness of her skin beneath his fingers, yet his thoughts were solely centered on her comfort and not a single stray thought crossed his mind.. Ruhanika didn’t flinch or express discomfort from his touch; her focus was entirely consumed by the unbearable pain she was experiencing. He could hear her soft sobs, each one tugging at his heartstrings, amplifying his sense of helplessness. In a moment of vulnerability, a tear slipped down his cheek, betraying the emotions he tried so hard to contain. He quickly wiped it away, not wanting Ruhanika to see his pain. After a few moments, a knock resonated from the door, breaking the intimate silence. Ruhanika glanced at Rudraksh, whose eyes were still closed in concentration. She was about to sit up, eager to address whoever was outside, but Rudraksh gently interrupted her.

Rudraksh: "Nooo, leti raho tum, main dekhta hu."

(noo, you keep resting, I'll check)

Ruhanika didn't have the energy to argue with him, so she remained still, grateful for his care. Rudraksh gently pulled her kurti down, ensuring she was comfortably covered with the duvet. When he opened his eyes, he noticed that her facial expressions still reflected pain, but she managed to give him a faint smile, a small beacon of reassurance that warmed his heart. He stood up and walked to the door, swinging it open to find Rishwik and Ashvik standing there, both of them looking eager to help. Rishwik immediately extended a bag toward Rudraksh, while Ashvik handed him a steaming cup of herbal tea.

Rishwik: "Bhai, Angel ko kuch aur chahiye toh batana"

(Bro, if Angel needs anything else, just let me know.)

Ashvik: "Also ye abhi just banaya hai, garam hai toh jaldi se pila dena."

(Also, this is freshly made. It’s warm, so give it to her quickly.)

Rudraksh nodded appreciatively at Rishwik and Ashvik, grateful for their support. Not wanting to intrude further on their moment, they exchanged understanding glances and quietly left the room. Once the door clicked shut, Rudraksh took a deep breath, feeling a mix of relief and determination to help Ruhanika. He returned to her side and set the bag down on the bed. First, he filled the hot water bag with warm water, knowing that the heat would provide some soothing relief for her cramps. After ensuring it was securely sealed, he plugged it in to warm up, preparing it for when she needed it most. Rudraksh sat beside her, feeling a surge of determination to alleviate her pain.

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh, bas 2 minute ke liye uth jao aur ye pilo, isse tumhe achcha lagega."

(Ruhhh, get up for just two minutes and drink this. You’ll feel better.)

Ruhanika: "Par hum nahi pi payenge, humara kuch bhi khane peene ka man nahi hai."

(But I can’t drink anything. I don’t feel like it.)

Rudraksh gently caressed Ruhanika's head, his fingers running through her hair with a tender touch.

Rudraksh: "janta hu Sohneyo, par bas ye pilo please bas thoda."

(I know, sweetheart, but please, just drink a little bit for me.)

Ruhanika gazed up at Rudraksh, finding solace in his presence. She couldn't help but smile at his unwavering care.  With gentle hands, Rudraksh helped her into a sitting position, allowing her to rest her head against his chest. The rhythm of his heartbeat was calming, and she closed her eyes for a moment, soaking in the peace he provided. As he rubbed her shoulders soothingly, she felt some of the tension begin to ease. Rudraksh then carefully lifted the cup of herbal tea, blowing gently on the surface before bringing it to her lips. He encouraged softly to drink herbal tea, ensuring that the tea wouldn’t burn her mouth. He fed her the warm drink, watching her face for any signs of discomfort. As she finished the tea, he felt a small sense of accomplishment; every little bit of comfort mattered. Once she had finished, he helped her lie back down, making sure she was cozy under the duvet. He then turned his attention to the hot water bag, carefully checking its temperature against his wrist to ensure it wasn’t too hot for her sensitive skin. Satisfied with the warmth, he turned back toward Ruhanika, holding the bag gently.

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh, yellow main na ye hot water bag tumhare abdomen pe rakhunga, isse tumhara dard thoda sa kum ho jayega aur tum so paogi, okay??"

(Ruhhh, here, I’m going to place this hot water bag on your abdomen. It’ll help ease the pain, and you’ll be able to sleep, okay?)

Ruhanika: "Par aap bhi humare pass so jaiye na, hume aisa nind nahi aa rahi."

(But will you sleep beside me too? I’m not able to fall asleep.)

Rudraksh smiled warmly at Ruhanika, his eyes conveying reassurance as he blinked softly. With a gentle touch, he lifted her kurti slightly and placed the hot water bag over her abdomen, hoping to alleviate her discomfort. He then carefully tucked the duvet around her, ensuring she felt cozy and secure. The warmth of the bag, combined with his comforting presence, created a soothing atmosphere, letting her know he was there for her every step of the way.

Rudraksh: "Okay???"

Ruhanika: "Jii, ab aap bhi aa jaiye na humare pass."

(Yes, please, come sleep beside me.)

Rudraksh: "Aww meri ruhh, tusi taan cuddle baby ho! Theek hai, chalo cuddle karde aan tuhanu, sohneyo."

(Aww, my Ruhh, you’re such a cuddle baby! Alright, let’s cuddle and sleep, sweetheart.)

Ruhanika: "Ji aap kya kehte hai, hum nahi samajh pate."

(What did you say? I don’t understand you sometimes.)

Rudraksh chuckled, his eyes sparkling with affection as he reached out and gently pinched her nose.

Rudraksh: "Kuch nahi, chalo so jao."

(Nothing, just go to sleep now.)

Rudraksh lay beside Ruhanika, his heart heavy with worry. As soon as he settled, she instinctively curled into him, wrapping her arms around him for comfort. He responded by pulling her closer, enveloping her in his embrace. He kissed her forehead tenderly, but as he held her, a tear slipped from his eye. Seeing her so pale, weak, and sobbing quietly broke his heart. It was a sight he couldn’t bear. Gently, he started running his fingers through her hair, hoping the soft touch would soothe her. With his other hand, he rubbed her arm, his touch full of love and care. He noticed how she was rubbing her legs together in discomfort, likely from the cramps. Without a word, Rudraksh placed his legs over hers, using his warmth and weight to ease the tension. Almost instantly, she seemed to relax, a small sign that his presence was helping. He kept kissing her head, each kiss filled with silent reassurances that he was there for her, that she wasn’t alone in her pain. Gradually, her sobbing slowed, and he felt her breathing soften, her small, gentle breaths resting against his chest. Finally, she had found some peace and drifted into sleep. Though a faint smile tugged at his lips, his heart was still heavy with concern. He placed another gentle kiss on her head. The exhaustion of the night finally caught up with him, and before he knew it, sleep claimed him too, his arms still wrapped protectively around her.

A few hours later, Ruhanika stirred in her sleep, her face twisting with discomfort. Her breathing became shallow and rapid as she slipped into a nightmare. She clenched her eyes shut, her body tensing, until she suddenly jolted awake. Sitting up abruptly, she gasped, trying to shake off the lingering fear from her dream. Her movements disturbed Rudraksh’s sleep, causing his eyes to flutter open slightly. Before he could fully wake up, Ruhanika gently patted his chest, silently urging him to rest. Trusting her touch, he sank back into his slumber, his breathing steady again. Ruhanika, however, remained sitting for a moment, trying to calm herself, but just as she thought she was regaining control, the familiar sharp cramps hit her abdomen once more. She winced, her hand instinctively pressing against her stomach as the pain intensified. She bit her lip, struggling to endure the discomfort without disturbing Rudraksh again.

Ruhanika: "Ahhhh"

Ruhanika winced and clutched her stomach as another wave of pain hit her. She carefully moved the hot water bag aside, realizing it had lost its warmth.

Ruhanika: "Hume toh Darr lag raha hai ab, ab hum kya kare, ye bhi der se soye the humari vajah se, Ahhh"

(I'm scared now, what should I do? He slept late because of me, ahhh...)

Ruhanika winced again, clutching her stomach tightly as the pain intensified. Her face contorted with discomfort, and tears welled up in her eyes.

Ruhanika: "Hum kya kare ab, ye jage hote toh sambhal lete, par utha bhi nahi sakte thak gaye hai ye bhi."

(What should I do now? If he were awake, he would handle everything, but I can’t even wake him up—he’s tired too.)

Ruhanika's eyes roamed the room, but they quickly landed on the figure beside her—her husband, Rudraksh, peacefully sleeping. She stared at him for a few moments, her earlier discomfort momentarily fading away as a small smile graced her lips. In the quiet stillness of the night, she found herself drawn to him, forgetting the pain for a while as she admired his features. His calm expression, the gentle rise and fall of his chest, and the way his hair slightly tousled from sleep made her heart swell with affection. She didn’t know how long she sat there, simply watching him, but there was something soothing about his presence.

Ruhanika: "Ye kitne pyaare lagte hai hume. Na jaane hume titliya kyu mehsoos hoti hai humare bheetar jab bhi ye humare pass aate hai."

(He looks so adorable to me. I don’t know why I feel butterflies inside whenever he comes close to me.)

Ruhanika stretched her hand toward Rudraksh, hesitating as she pulled it back multiple times, caught in a sweet internal struggle. Finally, summoning her courage, she reached out and caressed his cheek. The soft brush of her fingers against his skin elicited a response from him; Rudraksh instinctively leaned into her touch, burying his face deeper into her palm as a serene smile spread across his lips, even in his sleep. A light giggle escaped Ruhanika's lips, the sound gentle and filled with warmth. She felt a rush of affection wash over her, her heart swelling at the sight of him so content and at ease.

Ruhanika: "Ye kitne bhole hai, bilkul humare Shiv ji ki tarah."

(He’s so innocent, just like my Lord Shiva.)

Ruhanika gently reached out, her fingers weaving through Rudraksh's hair. As she did, she noticed his features becoming more relaxed, the tension in his brow easing as he savored the soft touch of her hand.

Ruhanika: "Achcha toh inhe bhi araam aata hai aise. Ab hum roz karenge aisa."

(Oh, so this relaxes him too. From now on, I'll do this regularly.)

As Ruhanika continued to run her fingers through Rudraksh's hair, she noticed how peacefully he slept, his features relaxed and serene. The rhythmic motion of her fingers was soothing, almost lulling her into a calm state. Eventually, a yawn escaped her lips, and she opened her eyes fully and pouted.

Ruhanika: "Hum kya kare, hum soye kaise hume darr lag raha hai."

(What should I do? How will I sleep? I'm scared.)

Ruhanika gazed at Rudraksh with innocent admiration, watching as he stirred in his sleep, instinctively seeking the warmth she had provided. A soft smile spread across her face at the sight. Gently, she patted his chest, hoping to reassure him and coax him back into a deeper slumber. Satisfied when he settled back down, a sense of joy filled her heart.

Ruhanika: "Bilkul bachche ki tarah hai aap, bahaut bhole aur pyaare se, aap jante hai bachpan me na jab hum aise Darr jate the na toh Nima hume apne pallu me Sula deti thi, par aap toh saree nahi pehen sakte."

(You're just like a child, so innocent and sweet. You know, back when I was a child and got scared, Nima would let me sleep in her pallu (the end of her saree), but you can't wear a saree.)

Ruhanika giggled softly at her own thoughts, a sense of joy bubbling within her. Suddenly, a clever idea sparked in her mind, and she couldn’t help but grin widely.

Ruhanika: "Ab raat ko aap Darr ke humare gale lag jate hai toh hum bhi aisa kar sakte hai na, aap Bura mat maniyega, par hume dard ho raha hai, aur nind bhi aa rahi hai. Hum subah aapse mafi mang lenge. Hum jante hai aap samajh jayenge ki aapke pass rehne se hume darr nahi lagta, isiliye hum aapke khoob pass so rahe hai, thik hai??"

(At night, when you get scared and hold onto me, I can do the same, right? Please don't mind, but I’m in pain, and I’m feeling sleepy too. I’ll apologize to you in the morning. I know you’ll understand that being near you makes me feel safe. That’s why I’m sleeping so close to you, okay?)

Rudraksh shifted his head on the pillow, blissfully unaware of the grin spreading across Ruhanika's face. If he had seen her smile, he would have playfully poked her dimples, teasing her as he often did. Feeling a wave of warmth, she gently pulled the duvet away from Rudraksh's chest, ensuring not to wake him. Slowly, she closed her eyes and she lifted the loose hem of his black vest from his waist up to his chest. With a gentle nudge, she slipped inside the vest, resting her head against his bare skin. The fabric enveloped her like a warm embrace, adding to the cocoon of comfort they had created together. She adjusted the vest and duvet, ensuring that they were snugly wrapped in each other, a perfect little haven.

With her arms wrapped tightly around him, Ruhanika nestled closer, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her cheek. She looked up briefly to check if he was awake, but he remained blissfully asleep, his expression peaceful. A smile danced on her lips as she settled back down, her heart swelling with contentment. Soon, the exhaustion of the day caught up with her, and she drifted into a deep slumber, cocooned in the warmth of his embrace. In that moment, as they lay entwined, both lost in their dreams, it felt as if the world had faded away. This was, without a doubt, the best sleep of their lives, filled with love, comfort, and the unbreakable bond they shared.

The next morning, Rudraksh stirred awake at his usual time, the sunlight streaming through the curtains but Ruhanika was still fast asleep, her brow slightly furrowed as she dealt with lingering cramps. As he opened his eyes slowly, he lifted a hand to rub the sleep away, but then he heard Ruhanika's soft voice escape her lips—a gentle whisper tinged with pain.

Ruhanika: "Ahhh"

Rudraksh: "Sohneyo..."

Rudraksh looked down at his hand, confusion washing over him as he noticed strands of hair caught in his fingers. His heart raced as he realized it was Ruhanika's hair; she was nestled against his chest. He instinctively tried to free her hair, but the movement caused her to whine softly in pain. He started gently releasing her hair from his grasp and smiling down at her. However, his smile quickly faded when something else caught his attention. His breath caught in his throat as he saw Ruhanika’s face pressed into his neck, her hands resting comfortably on his bare torso. Gently, he pulled back the duvet to get a better look, and his eyes widened in shock at the sight before him. Ruhanika was completely sprawled over him, her face buried against his collarbone, cheeks flush against his skin, while she was enveloped in his loose vest. Suddenly, Rudraksh's breathing became uneven, a rush of heat spreading across his face, neck, and ears as he felt an overwhelming surge of emotion. He had never been this close to anyone before, and the intimacy of the moment sent his heart racing. The delicate brush of Ruhanika's lips against his neck made his pulse quicken even further, and he could hardly comprehend the whirlwind of feelings swirling inside him. In an instinctive response, he gently turned her face away, hoping to regain some semblance of control. Yet, as he did so, he couldn't shake the warmth spreading through him, a mix of protectiveness and an inexplicable longing that left him both exhilarated and breathless.

Rudraksh: "aye ki kitta tusi, sohneyo?"

(What did you do, my love?)

Rudraksh closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to regain his composure. The warmth of Ruhanika's body against his was intoxicating, and he couldn't help but steal another glance at her. With trembling hands, he cautiously pulled his vest up to his neck, creating a barrier that helped him feel a little more at ease. With the other hand, he gently wrapped his arm around Ruhanika's waist, careful not to disturb her too much. Slowly, he turned them both, shifting her body onto the bed while ensuring she remained comfortable. He laid her down gently, then propped himself up beside her, resting his head on his hand and elbow. As he settled into this new position, Rudraksh couldn’t help but admire her. Ruhanika looked peaceful in her slumber, her features softened in the morning light that streamed through the window. Her hair cascaded across the pillow like a dark waterfall, framing her delicate face. The way her chest rose and fell with each breath was mesmerizing, a rhythmic reminder of her presence beside him.

Rudraksh: "Sohneyo, dil taan tusi pehla hi le chuke ho, te hun jaan v tuhade naam kar ditti hai. Fer ehna pyaria harkataan karke hor ki chahida, betu?"

(My love, you've already stolen my heart, and now even my life belongs to you. What more could I ask for when you do such adorable things, my dear?)

Rudraksh smiled warmly, leaning down to plant a gentle kiss on Ruhanika's head. The tender gesture filled him with affection, but it also triggered a rush of memories that made him blush. He recalled the way she had nestled against him in his vest, her warmth enveloping him and igniting a flutter of emotions within him.

Rudraksh: "Jaana, tusi meri reputation hi kharab kar dogi. Jo mainu rude te arrogant image banayi si, sab chali jaayegi. Lok sochan ge, itna vadda mafia hai, itni vaddi company chalaanda hai, kise di nahi sunnda, oh Rudraksh Malhotra apni biwi to sharmaunda hai!"

(Darling, you’re going to ruin my reputation! The tough, arrogant image I had built up will disappear. People will think, “He’s such a big mafia guy, runs such a big company, never listens to anyone, and now Rudraksh Malhotra is shy around his wife!”)

Rudraksh smiled softly at Ruhanika as he noticed her frowning in her sleep, a clear sign of discomfort. He instinctively thought it was due to the cramps she had been experiencing rather than the loss of his warmth. Acting quickly, he grabbed the hot water bag, reheated it, and gently placed it back on her abdomen. As the soothing heat enveloped her, Ruhanika instinctively turned toward him, seeking his presence, and settled into a more comfortable position. The sight of her snuggling closer brought a wave of relief to Rudraksh, and he felt a sense of happiness wash over him, knowing he could help ease her pain even in the simplest of ways.

Rudraksh: "Uthte hi bhook lagegi na aapko meri jaan, main abhi kuch meetha banata hu."

(When you wake up, you'll be hungry, won’t you, my love? I’ll make something sweet for you right now.)

Rudraksh gently tucked Ruhanika deeper into the duvet, ensuring she was cozy and warm before quietly slipping out of the room. He made his way to the kitchen, determined to prepare something special for her to brighten her day. Meanwhile, Ruhanika slowly stirred awake, blinking against the morning light filtering through the curtains. As she sat up and glanced around the room, she realized she was alone. A frown creased her forehead, and she pouted, feeling a pang of disappointment at his absence. She missed the warmth of his presence and the comforting aura he brought with him.

Ruhanika: "Ye kaha chale gaye hum yaha chod ke?? Kasrat karne?? Offo Mahadev, ye kitni kasrat karte hai. Hume dekhna hai inhe."

(Where did he go, leaving me here? To work out? Oh, Lord Shiva, he exercises so much. I want to watch him.)

Ruhanika sat up and began talking to herself, With a gentle push, she tossed the duvet aside. As she settled back against the pillows, her hand brushed against the hot water bag resting on her abdomen. To her relief, it was still warm, providing comfort to her cramps. She smiled softly, appreciating the little things he did for her, even in his absence.

Ruhanika: "Ye kitna pyaare hai, humara kitna khayal rakhte hai. Hum inhe kissie deke inaam de denge."

(He’s so sweet and takes such good care of me. I’ll reward him with a kiss!)

Ruhanika grinned as she set the hot water bag aside, her heart feeling lighter as she placed her feet on the cool floor. Her soft slippers, which she had left in the closet the night before, were now conveniently placed nearby, a thoughtful gesture she knew Rudraksh must have made. With a smile, she slipped them on and went about her morning chores, feeling a sense of warmth and appreciation for him. Once she finished, Ruhanika stepped out of the room, eager to find Rudraksh. As she made her way upstairs, she spotted him approaching the stairs, engrossed in a phone conversation. A wave of affection washed over her at the sight of him, but her attention quickly shifted when she noticed something unusual. As she took a cautious step down the stairs, her eyes widened in alarm at the sight of a liquid spilled on the floor directly in Rudraksh's path. She could see his foot moving closer to the slick surface, and her eyes widened in concern.

Ruhanika: "Mat jaiyee vaha"

(Don’t go there.)

Ruhanika raised her voice slightly, hoping to catch Rudraksh's attention However, he remained engrossed in his phone call, oblivious to her pleas. he called out a few more times, each attempt a little louder than the last, yet he remained lost in conversation.

Ruhanika: "Suniye, Ruk jaiye na"

(Listen, please stop.)

Ruhanika's mind raced as she contemplated how to prevent Rudraksh from falling. She could see him approaching the stairs, and her heart raced with worry. Just as she began to descend the stairs quickly, she noticed Rudraksh nearing the edge. He was about to step right onto the slick, spilled liquid on the floor when her voice rang out, filled with urgency.

Ruhanika: "Akshhhh, rukiye."

(Akshhhh, Stop!)

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Precap: Ruhanika Blushes.

First of all, thank you for hitting the target on the previous chapter! Secondly, I apologize for not replying to your comments.

I know this chapter is a bit shorter, but I promise to post a longer one tomorrow.

Also, I wanted to ask your opinion—would it be okay if the book exceeds 60+ chapters? There's still so much content left, and I don’t want to rush through things.

Target:

Votes: 1.2k

Comments: 225

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Happy reading 🌸💙

Lot's of Love 💙🫂