"6. Comfort and Care"

"Main jo saansein leta hu

Vo uski Rahat si lagti hai

Mere seene me jo dil hai

Vo uski dhadkan si lagti hai"

-Fictionflare_

After Ruhanika nodded, Rudraksh gently placed his hand on her forehead to check her temperature. His touch was soft and careful, as if he feared hurting her any further. Ruhanika's eyes remained fixed on him, her gaze filled with a mix of confusion and cautious trust. She seemed to be trying to understand him. Rudraksh, sensing her steady gaze, turned his head to look at the doctor, seeking confirmation.

Rudraksh: "doctor, fever toh nahi hai ab."

(Doctor, she doesn’t have a fever now.)

Doctor: "Oh, that’s good. Umm, is there any pain in your shoulder, Mrs. Malhotra?"

Rudraksh turned his attention back to Ruhanika, and he noticed she was staring at him intently. Her eyes, though weary and red from crying, were locked onto his, searching for something—perhaps reassurance, perhaps understanding. There was a silent plea in her gaze, as if she were trying to find comfort in his presence, despite the turmoil she had been through. Rudraksh could feel the weight of her stare; it was a mixture of vulnerability and a fragile hope that he might be the one to protect her from the horrors of her past.

Rudraksh: "Umm, yellow kya tumhe kandhe par dard hai??"

(Umm, Yellow, is there any pain in your shoulder?)

Ruhanika lowered her gaze, breaking the intense eye contact with Rudraksh, and she shook her head slowly.

Rudraksh: "Hmmm???"

Rudraksh leaned a bit closer, his voice taking on a slightly more commanding tone as he asked. Ruhanika nodded her head gently in agreement, her eyes still lowered. Seeing her response, Rudraksh's eyes softened. The sternness in his expression melted away, replaced by a warmth and tenderness that hadn't been there before.

Rudraksh: "Zyada dard hai kya betu?"

(Is it hurting a lot, sweetie?)

Ruhanika: "Ha..halka sa."

(Ju-just a little.)

Ruhanika whispered softly, barely above a breath,her voice tremulous but filled with a quiet sincerity. Though the words were faint, Rudraksh heard them clearly.

Rudraksh: "She’s having slight pain, Doctor."

Doctor: "Okay, I’ve already prescribed the medicines, Mr. Malhotra. Just give her those, and as I mentioned earlier, follow the steps I told you about."

Rudraksh: "Everything will be arranged in a few hours. I hope you can start after that."

Doctor: "Sure, but could you please come with me for a minute?"

Rudraksh nodded and was about to stand up from the bed, but Ruhanika's grip on his hand tightened suddenly. He turned to look at her, and saw her eyes darting around the room—glancing at the nurses, Rishwik, and Amandeep—before meeting his gaze again. Her expression was a mix of pleading and apprehension as she shook her head slowly, silently imploring him to stay.

Rudraksh: "Bas ek minute betu, abhi aa jaunga."

(Just a minute, sweetie. I’ll be right back.)

Rudraksh noticed the pleading look in Ruhanika's eyes and felt a pang of sorrow. He gently caressed her head with his free hand, trying to offer comfort and reassurance. His touch was tender and soothing, meant to calm her fears and provide a sense of safety. As he continued to hold her hand, he whispered softly.

Rudraksh: "Main yu gaya aur yu aaya, chinta mat karo in sabko bahar le ja raha hu, thik hai?"

(I’ll be back in a jiffy. Don’t worry; I’m taking them outside, alright?)

Ruhanika gave a small, tentative nod and gradually withdrew her hand from Rudraksh's. With the nurses and doctor having exited, the room felt quieter, a small comfort in her chaotic world. Rishwik, who had been silently observing, looked at her with a soft, understanding gaze, his eyes betraying his own emotions. He seemed to silently share in Ruhanika's pain, his gaze soft and reflective. Rudraksh gently patted Rishwik's back, a gesture meant to ground him and pull him back to the present moment. Rishwik blinked rapidly, trying to push back the tears that had formed in his eyes. With a final, reassuring glance at Ruhanika, Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Amandeep made their way out of the room. Rudraksh carefully closed the door behind them, ensuring it clicked shut softly. The action was deliberate, meant to shield Ruhanika from any further distress or unwanted attention.

Rudraksh: "Yes, Doctor?"

Doctor: "I just wanted to say, please don’t ask her anything about the incident or anything that might intensify her panic and trauma. Her body is too weak to endure these things right now."

They all nodded in silent agreement, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Doctor: "Okay, I’ll take my leave for now and will be back in a few hours for the other tests."

Rishwik: "Okay, thank you, Doctor."

The doctor then left from there.

Rudraksh: "You both should go and get some rest."

Rishwik: "You too, bhai."

Amandeep quietly left the house. Rudraksh, his mind heavy with the weight of the day’s events, walked towards another room.

Rishwik: "Bhai aap kaha ja rahe ho??"

(Brother, where are you going?)

Rudraksh: "The guest room."

Rishwik: "Why?"

Rudraksh: "What do you mean, why? Obviously, to get some rest."

Rishwik: "Toh apne kamre jao, vaha so jao."

(Then go to your own room and sleep there.)

Rudraksh: "Rishwik are you dumb?? Yellow hai vaha, main ek ladki ke sath room thodi share karunga."

(Rishwik, are you dumb? Yellow is there. I can’t share a room with a girl.)

Rishwik: "Vo ladki aapki biwi hai bhai, aur doctor ne bhi kaha hai bhabhi ko akele nahi chodna."

(That girl is your wife, brother. And the doctor also said not to leave her alone.)

Rudraksh: "Rishwik, dekh tu janta hai maine usse shadi kaise ki thi, and vo kitni choti hai mujhse, main use biwi nahi manta."

(Rishwik, look, you know how I married her, and she’s so much younger than me. I don’t consider her my wife.)

Rishwik: "Aapke manne na manne se kya hota hai??? Aapne shadi ki hai aur bhabhi hai aapki biwi. And bhai she's going to be 22, 5 years ka age gap is common."

(What does it matter whether you consider her your wife or not? You married her, and she is your wife. And brother, she’s going to be 22 soon. A 5-year age gap is common.)

Rudraksh: "Behes mat kar Rishwik, maine galti ki usse shadi karke, vo ek baar thik ho jaye toh phir main use.."

(Don’t argue, Rishwik. I made a mistake by marrying her. Once she gets better, then I will...)

Rudraksh didn’t finish his sentence, as Rishwik abruptly interrupted.

Rishwik: "phir use kya bhai?? Phir bhej denge bhabhi ko un logo ke pass, phir se us kaid me??"

(Then what will you do, brother? Send her back to those people? Back to that captivity?)

Rudraksh: "Rishwikkkk"

Rudraksh, overwhelmed with frustration and worry, shouted.

Rishwik: "Aur nahi toh kya bhai, Bhuliye mat bhabhi sirf aap par bharosa karti hai, please us masoom ladki ka dil mat todna vaise hi bahaut bikhri huyi hai vo. Shadi unke marzi ke khilaaf ki, par aage ka faisla toh please unse puch ke Lena."

(What else, brother? Don’t forget, she only trusts you. Please don’t break that innocent girl’s heart. She’s already broken enough. You forced her into this marriage, but for what happens next, please make sure to ask her first.)

Saying this, Rishwik left for his room, leaving Rudraksh standing there, confused and unsettled. Rudraksh stared at the door of his room, his mind preoccupied, and walked towards it absentmindedly. He opened the door and stepped inside. Rishwik, who had been observing from the room directly opposite, smile before closing his own door. Rudraksh entered his room only to find Ruhanika missing from the bed. Panic surged through him as he quickly scanned the room. His eyes fell upon her sitting on the floor, her back resting against the bed. Concern etched deeply on his face, he moved swiftly towards her. Standing in front of her, Rudraksh’s heart ached at the sight of her sitting so vulnerably on the cold floor. He knelt down to her level, his expression softening as he reached out a hand to gently touch her shoulder.

Rudraksh: "Yaha niche kya kar rahi ho??"

(What are you doing down here?)

Ruhanika's eyes widened in surprise as she looked up at Rudraksh, her body tensing momentarily. But as she met his gaze, the initial shock in her eyes softened, and a sense of calm began to wash over her. The warmth in his eyes and the gentle concern etched in his face helped ease her anxiety. She took a deep breath, her body relaxing.

Rudraksh: "Utho, aao uper baitho."

(Get up. Come up and sit.)

Ruhanika: "Na..hi, h..um k..aise, ye aapka b..istar hai."

(N-no, h-how can we? This is your bed.)

Rudraksh: "Bakwaas band karo, abhi bukhaar tha, chod lagi hai uper se niche tak tuti futi ho, ab aur bimaar hona hai kya??"

(Stop talking nonsense. You were just sick, you’re injured, and you’re weak from top to bottom. Do you want to get even more sick?)

Rudraksh spoke in his usual tone, which was anything but gentle. The sharpness in his voice was evident, and Ruhanika instinctively shook her head, her gaze dropping to the floor. Noticing his mistake, Rudraksh softened his approach. He gently helped her to her feet, his touch tender as he guided her upright.

Ruhanika: "Ahh"

As Rudraksh guided Ruhanika back to the bed, she winced in pain, her injured feet clearly causing her discomfort. When he tried to help her sit down, she gently stopped him with a restrained movement.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua?"

(What’s wrong?)

Ruhanika glanced around the room, her eyes darting from one corner to another, searching intently for something she couldn't quite locate. Her expression was one of confusion and mild distress, as if the missing item was of significant importance to her.

Rudraksh: "Bolo"

(Tell me.)

Ruhanika: "Wa..shroom."

Rudraksh: "Ohh"

Rudraksh gently lifted Ruhanika into his arms, her surprise evident as she looked up at him with wide eyes. Without a word, she instinctively clutched his shoulders tightly, her grip firm as if seeking reassurance. She shut her eyes tightly, her face pressed against his chest, seeking comfort and stability in his embrace.

Ruhanika: "Ye... Kyaa.."

(Wh-what is...)

Rudraksh: "Shhh, chup bilkul."

(Shhh, be quiet.)

Rudraksh carefully placed Ruhanika near the washroom door, ensuring she was steady before gently setting her down. She stood there, leaning against the wall for support, her grip steadying her as she looked up at him.

Rudraksh: "Zyada chalna nahi, main yahi hu thik hai, ab jao."

(Don’t walk too much. I’m right here, okay? Now go.)

Ruhanika nodded in acknowledgment and entered the washroom. After a few minutes, she emerged, and Rudraksh immediately moved to her side. With careful consideration, he lifted her once more and gently placed her on the bed. As she settled, he adjusted the blankets around her, ensuring she was comfortable and secure.

Rudraksh: "Ab na tum kuch der so jao."

(Now, you should try to sleep for a bit.)

Ruhanika: "Hum ka..ha so..yenge?"

(W-where should I s-sleep?)

Rudraksh: "Kaha matlab?? Yahi bed pe."

(What do you mean, where? Right here, on the bed.)

Ruhanika: "Hum bed p..e so sa..kte hai?"

(Can I really s-sleep on the bed?)

Rudraksh: "Haa toh tum aur kaha soti ho zameen pe?"

(Yes, where else do you sleep, on the floor?)

Rudraksh asked sarcastically, his tone laced with disbelief but s eyes widened in shock, unable to hide his surprise, when Ruhanika nodded in response.

Rudraksh: "Tum Rathore mansion me zameen pe soti thi??"

(Did you sleep on the floor in Rathore Mansion?)

Rudraksh's eyes widened further as Ruhanika nodded in confirmation.

Rudraksh: "Tum jab se is ghar me aayi ho, tab se yaha bhi zameen pe soti ho??"

(And since you’ve been here, you’ve been sleeping on the floor too?)

Rudraksh's shock deepened as Ruhanika nodded once more.

Rudraksh: "Hadd karti ho, pagal ladki."

(You’re impossible, silly girl.)

Ruhanika lowered her head, a pout forming on her lips. Seeing Ruhanika lower her head with a pout, Rudraksh's stern demeanor softened. His eyes filled with concern and tenderness as he gazed at her.

Rudraksh: "Achcha dekho."

( Look, listen.)

Ruhanika looked up at Rudraksh.

Rudraksh thought: "phir vahi masoomiyat, mujhe bahaut jaldi apne liye mental asylum me bed book karna padega, iski nazarein mujhe normal toh nahi rehne dengi."

(Again, that innocence. I’m going to have to book myself a bed in a mental asylum soon; her eyes won’t let me stay sane.)

Rudraksh noticed that Ruhanika’s gaze remained fixed on him, a blend of confusion and curiosity evident in her eyes.

Rudraksh: "Tum na so jao abhi. Hum baadme baat karenge thik hai?"

(Why don’t you sleep now? We can talk later, alright?)

Rudraksh's confusion grew as Ruhanika shook her head in response to his suggestion for her to sleep. Her reaction puzzled him, leaving him uncertain about what she needed or wanted at that moment.

Rudraksh: "Kya Sona nahi hai??"

(What? You don’t want to sleep?)

Rudraksh watched in confusion as Ruhanika shook her head. Her refusal to lie down made him wonder what she was trying to communicate, and he could see the mix of exhaustion and unease in her eyes.

Rudraksh: "Kyu??"

(Why not?)

Rudraksh, noticing Ruhanika's silence and downcast gaze, sat beside her with a gentle sigh.

Rudraksh: "Darr lag raha hai??"

(Are you scared?)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Mere sath bhi?"

(Even with me here?)

Ruhanika shook her head slowly.

Rudraksh: "Toh so jao, main yahi hu tumhare pass."

(Then sleep; I’m right here beside you.)

Ruhanika glanced at Rudraksh, then briefly looked toward the door, before finally lowering her head once more. It was clear she was contemplating something, possibly feeling trapped or conflicted.

Ruhanika: "K..oi aa gaya t..oh"

(Wh..at if someone comes in?)

Rudraksh: "Koi nahi aayega, aur main hu na tumhare pass. Ha agar tum chahti ho toh main chala jata hu tum akele rehna."

(No one will come, and I'm here with you. But if you want, I can leave, and you can stay alone.)

Rudraksh began to rise, sensing Ruhanika's unease, but before he could fully stand, Ruhanika's hand reached out and gripped his firmly. She shook her head gently, indicating that she didn’t want him to leave. Her eyes conveyed a mix of urgency and hesitation, revealing her internal struggle. Seeing her reaction, Rudraksh immediately sat back down beside her. He understood that his presence was crucial to her, and he was willing to stay and offer her the comfort she needed.

Rudraksh: "Hmm toh manogi na meri sari baatein?"

(Hmm, will you listen to everything I say?)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Chalo phir so jao, abhi dawai Li hai na tumne, tabiyat kharab hai toh araam ki zarurat hai tumhe."

(Alright, then go to sleep. You've just taken your medicine, and you're not feeling well, so you need to rest)

Ruhanika: "Par h..um ka.."

(But I.. I..)

Rudraksh: "par var kuch nahi, abhi tum so Rahi ho ya main jau tumhe chod ke??"

(No ifs or buts. Are you going to sleep, or should I leave you alone?)

Ruhanika: "Hu..hum so ra..he hai."

(I.. I'll sleep.)

Rudraksh: "Good, now lay down."

(Good. Now lie down.)

Rudraksh gently helped Ruhanika settle down on the bed, his movements tender and careful. As he brushed a few stray strands of hair from her face and continued to caress her head, the soothing touch seemed to calm her. The effects of the medication and her exhaustion soon took their toll, and she drifted off to sleep. Rudraksh remained by her side, his gaze fixed on her serene expression. As he watched her sleep, his thoughts were consumed by the weight of the recent revelations and the depth of her pain. His mind wandered through the events of the day, grappling with the emotions and responsibilities that lay ahead.

Rudraksh: "Kitni choti si masoom si ho tum, aur kitni mysterious hai tumhari zindagi. Kitna kuch saha hai tumne itni si umar me. Samajh nahi aa raha kya karu?? Tumse tumhari marzi ke khilaaf shadi ki phir bhi mujhpe itna bharosa kyu karti ho tum?? Kaise sambhalu main sab kuch?? Meri apni zindagi itni bikhri padi hai ki koi bhi aayega toh use sirf dard hi milega, aise me kaise tumhe apna lu main?? Aur dard nahi dena chahta tumhe. Kya karu main tumhi batao?? Alhir kyu aayi ho meri zindagi me, kya rishta hai humara?? Kaisa bandhan hai ye??"

(You're so small and innocent, and your life is so mysterious. You've endured so much at such a young age. I don't know what to do. Why do you trust me so much when I married you against your will? How do I handle all this? My own life is so messed up that anyone who comes close will only get hurt. How can I make you mine in such a situation? I don't want to cause you any more pain. What should I do? Why did you come into my life? What is our relationship? What kind of bond is this?)

As Ruhanika stirred in her sleep, she unconsciously reached out and grasped Rudraksh's hand. Her fingers tightened around his, seeking comfort even in her slumber. Rudraksh's heart warmed at the gesture, and he gently brushed his hand over her head, his touch tender and reassuring. He remained still, watching her peaceful face, and continued to caress her head softly.

Rudraksh: "sabse pehle toh tum mujhe dekhna band karo, na jaane kya hone lagta hai mujhe tumhare dekhne se."

(First of all, stop looking at me. I don’t know why, but something happens to me when you look at me.)

Rudraksh remained seated beside Ruhanika, his gaze fixed on her serene face. Exhaustion gradually overtook him, and despite his attempts to stay awake, his eyelids grew heavy. As he continued to sit in that position, the weight of the day’s events finally took its toll, and he succumbed to fatigue. With a deep, weary sigh, he fell asleep.

As the clock struck 9 in the morning, a knock on the door stirred Ruhanika from her sleep. Startled, she clutched Rudraksh's hand tightly, causing him to wake up. Disoriented but immediately concerned, Rudraksh noticed Ruhanika's heavy breathing. Gently, he placed his hand over hers, offering reassurance through his touch.

Rudraksh: "Shh shant, kuch nahi hoga daro mat."

(Shh, calm down. Nothing will happen. Don't be scared.)

Ruhanika's gaze remained fixed on Rudraksh as he gently held her hand, her eyes reflecting a mix of lingering fear and relief.

Rudraksh: "Come in."

As the door creaked open, Rishwik stood in the doorway with a tray in hand, a smile playing on his lips. The sight of Rudraksh beside Ruhanika made Rishwik’s grin widen, clearly amused by the scene before him. Rudraksh, catching his brother’s expression, rolled his eyes in exasperation, fully aware of the reason behind the smile. Meanwhile, Ruhanika, still disoriented and confused, glanced between the two men but remained silent, her mind trying to process the situation.

Rishwik: "Good morning Angel."

Rudraksh: "Angel kon hai??"

(Who's Angel?)

Rishwik: "Ye aapki biwi."

(Your wife.)

Rudraksh: "Abhi kuch der tak toh ye bhabhi thi na?"

(Just a while ago, she was sister-in-law, right?)

Rishwik: "Ha toh ye choti hai mujhse bhabhi ajeeb lagega, aur dekho na kitni cute si choti si hai pyari si ekdum Angel ki tarah, hai na Angel??"

(Yes, but she's younger than me, so calling her "Bhabhi" feels strange. And look, she's so cute and small, just like a teddy bear. Isn't that right, Teddy?)

Rishwik, noticing Ruhanika's subdued mood, was determined to lift her spirits. He carefully placed the tray on the bedside table, ensuring it was within easy reach. he gesture was thoughtful, meant to offer comfort and perhaps a distraction. Noticing Ruhanika's movement, Rudraksh’s gaze softened. She shifted closer to him, seeking solace in his presence, her body language reflecting her need for reassurance and stability.

Rishwik: "Areh daro nahi, main pass nahi aaunga. Btw main Rishwik hu, Rudraksh bhai ka chota sa bhai."

(Oh, don't be scared. I won't come closer. By the way, I'm Rishwik, Rudraksh Bhai's younger brother.)

Rishwik settled on the bed, positioning himself on the opposite side of Ruhanika.

Rishwik: "Tumhe pata hai Angel, mujhe na humesha se tumhare jaisi choti si, cute si, pyaari se behen chahiye thi. Aur dekho ab tum aa gayi humari life me."

(You know, Angel, I've always wanted a little, cute, and lovely sister like you. And now you're here in our lives.)

Rishwik spoke with a warm smile, attempting to lighten the mood, but Ruhanika’s reaction was one of unease. Her eyes, wide with apprehension, locked onto him, and her grip on Rudraksh’s hand tightened, as if seeking reassurance from him.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua betu??"

(What's wrong, sweetheart?)

Ruhanika: "Naa..hi, bhai nahi, bhai bu..ura."

(No..o, not brother, bad brother.)

Rishwik and Rudraksh exchanged confused glances, but they chose not to press her further. Instead, they let the moment pass without asking any more questions.

Rishwik: "Achcha koi baat nahi, par ye kha lo tumne kal se kuch nahi khaya hoga na Angel."

(It's okay, no problem. But at least eat this. You probably haven't eaten anything since yesterday, right, Angel?)

Ruhanika shook her head, signaling that she wasn’t hungry.

Rudraksh: "Yellow, dekho tumhari tabiyat thik nahi hai, toh khana toh padega betu, abhi hume bahaut se test karane hai tumhare."

(Look, you're not feeling well, so you have to eat, sweetheart. We still have many tests to do.)

Ruhanika glanced at Rudraksh, her expression filled with confusion.

Ruhanika: "Hum p..adhai nahi ka..rte, toh test ka...ise d...enge??"

(I d..on't study, so h..ow will I take tests?)

Rishwik began laughing heartily at the situation, but his amusement quickly faded when he noticed Ruhanika moving even closer to Rudraksh, seeking comfort. Rudraksh shot Rishwik a sharp glare, which effectively silenced his laughter.

Rishwik: "Sorry bhai. Angel ye medical test hai vo padhai wala test nahi. Aapki tabiyat thik nahi hai na isiliye ye zaruri hai."

(Sorry, Angel. These are medical tests, not school tests. They're necessary because you're not feeling well.)

Ruhanika listened carefully to Rishwik's words, her gaze shifting to Rudraksh as she sought his approval. Rudraksh, recognizing her need for reassurance, nodded slightly, his eyes softening with understanding.

Rudraksh: "Ha yellow, ye test zaruri hai. Chinta mat karo main rahunga tumhare sath betu."

(Yes, Ruhanika, these tests are important. Don't worry, I'll be with you, sweetheart.)

Ruhanika: "Hum 22 saal ..k...e ho..ne wale hai aur h..humara naam Ruhanika hai."

(I'm going to be 22, and my name is Ruhanika.)

Rishwik and Rudraksh exchanged puzzled glances, their confusion evident as they tried to make sense of Ruhanika’s reaction.

Rishwik: "We know your age and name, princess."

Ruhanika:  "Toh.. hum Bach..che nahi hai. Aap hume..be..betu kyu bol ra..he hai??"

(Then.. I'm not a child. Why do you call me baby?)

Rishwik's laughter erupted once more, his amusement clear. Rudraksh shot him a stern glare, his patience wearing thin with his brother's antics.

Rishwik: "Sorry Bhai, par ye mast tha. You are so funny Angel."

(Sorry, brother, but this is hilarious. You are so funny, Angel.)

Ruhanika’s gaze fell to the floor, a mix of embarrassment and hurt evident on her face. She felt a pang of sadness, disheartened that Rishwik’s laughter was directed at her.

Ruhanika: "Aur hum..Ara na..am Ruhanika hai, Angel nahi."

(And my name is Ruhanika, not Angel.)

Rishwik's laughter abruptly halted as he looked at her in shock.Rudraksh, initially smirking at Rishwik's reaction, was caught off guard when he heard Ruhanika's unexpected words.

Ruhanika: "Aur h..um yellow c..olour ke na..nahi hai."

(And I.. I'm not yellow in color.)

Rudraksh suppressed a smile, gently caressing Ruhanika’s head to comfort her. Rishwik, amused by her innocence, leaned in to playfully pull her cheeks. However, Ruhanika turned away and buried her face in Rudraksh's chest, seeking comfort and hiding from Rishwik's teasing gesture.

Ruhanika: "D...d...duur."

(St..stay away.)

Rishwik, realizing the impact of his actions, felt a pang of guilt for making Ruhanika feel scared. Observing her vulnerable state, he understood that despite her circumstances, she retained a childlike innocence and needed much more love, care, and support. With this realization, he sat back down, his demeanor softening as he respected her need for comfort.

Rishwik: "I'm sorry Angel. Main dur hu dekho."

(I'm sorry, Angel. Look, I'm staying away.)

Ruhanika glanced at Rishwik, and upon seeing that he had moved away, she let out a sigh of relief. Her shoulders relaxed slightly, and she seemed to find some comfort in his absence.

Rudraksh: "Chalo ab ye kha lo."

(Come on, eat this now.)

Rudraksh moved the breakfast tray closer to Ruhanika, his gaze firm and insistent. Ruhanika glanced at him, hesitating to refuse. The intensity of his stare made her rethink her decision. With a wince, she extended her left hand towards the plate, but a sharp hiss escaped her as her shoulder injury throbbed in protest.

Ruhanika: "Ahhhh"

Rudraksh: "Kya hua??"

(What happened?)

Ruhanika remained silent, her face contorted in discomfort as she extended her hand toward the plate once more. Her eyes were tightly shut, clearly bracing herself against the pain. Rudraksh observed her closely, noting the strain in her expression.

Rudraksh: "Ruko"

(Wait.)

Rishwik: "Bhai, aap ise khila kar niche le aana, main chalta hu."

(Bhai, feed her and bring her downstairs; I'll go ahead.)

Rudraksh nodded, signaling his approval of Rishwik's departure, and watched as his brother left the room. He then turned his attention back to Ruhanika, carefully adjusting her position on the bed to make her more comfortable. Then  he settled himself in front of her.

Rudraksh: "Are you left-handed?"

She nodded.

Rudraksh: "Okay, now eat this."

Rudraksh gently held the sandwich up to Ruhanika's mouth, and she accepted it without protest. He continued feeding her, offering bites of the sandwich and sips of juice. After he finished, he began to rise from his seat, but Ruhanika reached out and grasped his hand, her grip firm yet gentle. Rudraksh paused, his expression softening as he looked at her, silently asking if she needed anything more.

Rudraksh: "Ab kya hua??"

(What's wrong now?)

Ruhanika: "Hu...me, kuch yaad na..hi hai. Hum yaha k...aise aa..ye?? Aur hu...mare kapde, kisne ba..badle. Kya un..logo lad..kiyo ne??"

(I.. don't r..emember anything. How did I get here? And who changed my clothes? Did the maids do it?)

Rudraksh noticed the shift in Ruhanika’s expression as she mentioned the nurses. It was clear to him that she was uncomfortable with the thought of others changing her clothes. He could tell that she valued her privacy and would likely be upset if she realized that the nurses had attended to her in such a personal manner. Understanding her sensitivity, he decided to keep this information from her to avoid causing any further distress.

Rudraksh: "Tumhe yaha main lekar aaya hu, aur tumhe yaad nahi hai kya, kal tumhe khud hi toh apne kapde badle the."

(I brought you here. Don’t you remember? Yesterday, you changed your clothes yourself.)

Ruhanika: "Humne??"

(I did?)

Rudraksh: "Hmm, kya tumhe bhoolne ki bimaari hai??"

(Yes, do you have memory problems?)

Ruhanika quickly shook her head, her eyes wide.

Ruhanika: "Na..hi nahi. Hu..m th..ik hai, hum toh bas uhhuuu"

(N..no, I'm fine, I was just, uhh...)

Ruhanika began to cough as she attempted to speak too quickly, her words coming out in a rush. Rudraksh quickly placed a gentle hand on her head, offering her a reassuring pat. With a concerned expression, he handed her a glass of water, urging her to drink slowly. He glared at her.

Rudraksh: "Kis baat ki jaldi hai tumhe?? Ab jo main bolunga vahi karogi tum samjhi???"

(What's the hurry with everything? From now on, you'll do whatever I say, understood?)

Ruhanika nodded her head once more, signaling that she understood.

Rudraksh: "Main fresh hoke aata hu, tab tak chup chaap yahi baithna, thik hai??"

(I'm going to freshen up. Until then, sit here quietly, okay?)

Ruhanika nodded again, watching as Rudraksh left the room and headed towards the washroom.

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Alright, I know this chapter might not be up to the mark, and I'm not fully satisfied with it either, but I promised to update, so here it is.

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Now, I need your opinions on a few things:

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1. Should I turn this into a multiple-couple book? (Including Rishwik and Amandeep's love story)

2. Some readers aren't happy with "Betu," so please let me know if you'd prefer "Betu" or "Bachcha."

3. I've noticed that "Yellow" hasn't been well-received, so should I change it?

4. Please suggest a good name for Rudraksh's best friend.

5. Rishwik's nickname for Ruhanika was originally "Teddy," but I changed it to "Angel." Should it stay "Angel" or go back to "Teddy"?

I've attached Instagram polls for the names. Looking forward to your feedback!

Target:

Votes: 100

Comments: 30

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Till then bye bye

See you on Saturday with another update.

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Happy reading 🌸 💙