36. Sahil's Dilemma

Author's POV

Returning to the room where Ishika was, he found her kneeling at the edge of the bed. Sahil tried to console her and engage in conversation.

"I'll treat you to supper later."

Ishika glanced at him. "You want to harm me."

Sahil responded, "No, I don't."

"Then why are you being so nice to me?"

She rolled her eyes at him and continued to pull her hand away from him.

Sahil wasn't skilled at comforting people. After his previous attempts yielded poor results, he decided to use the old method. He sat on the edge of the bed and pulled her toward him. While talking to her, he held her in his arms.

Ishika felt uncomfortable being held, but she wasn't as agitated as before. She raised her head and spoke to him. "

"Sahil, don't hug me. It's hot."

"I'll just hold you for a while, and I'll let go later."

"Why are you hugging me?"

Sahil struggled to find words for a moment, furrowing his brow. "I just want to hug you."

"Stop hugging me. It's hot."

"Fine, I'll just hug you for a little while."

"Why are you hugging me?"

This conversation left Raj speechless. It was like an endless loop.

Seizing the moment when Sahil was pulling Ishika's arm, Raj swiftly administered the injection. Injecting her was quicker than examining, but now Ishika reacted faster than before. She felt the pain and began to struggle, crying, not wanting Sahil to hug her for even a minute.

"It's all right, it'll be over soon," Sahil reassured.

Sahil didn't have much experience in comforting people, and now it was his turn to take the lead. Now he understood what it felt like to be powerless. After repeating those two sentences over and over again, he found them annoying to himself, let alone for the sick Ishika.

Once the injection was done, it completely agitated Ishika, and she didn't even want to sit at the bedside playing with handcuffs. She became restless, looking for something to do.

Raj, who was experienced with difficult patients, suggested, " Let her lie down on the bed," This was a standard procedure, but as Sahil followed it, he began to feel uncomfortable. He believed that it was undignified to treat someone this way. In particular, Ishika was begging him, saying that her hands hurt.

"Just endure it, it'll be over soon," he said.

In response, Ishika said, "Get lost! Liar!"

Sahil was really at a loss this time. The words he usually used to comfort people were all used up during the night.

Fortunately, she was already under control. He sat at the foot of the bed, counting down the minutes while waiting for her to calm down. But just as he sat down, he was kicked twice in the lower back. She used her heels to kick him.

He turned his head and found that Ishika had raised her hands over her head, trying to increase her body's length to allow her feet to reach him before delivering those two kicks. He worked tirelessly all night, but he didn't get anything but kicks in return.

Sahil sighed and gave her a look. Ishika still seemed dissatisfied, her gaze lingering on him with a hint of defiance. He sat down on the nearby chair, exhaustion etched on his face. His voice was soft yet firm when he said, "Close your eyes and go to sleep."

The clock read 1:45 AM. The room was unfamiliar, cold, and heavy with silence. Despite his weariness, Sahil didn't let himself rest. His eyes stayed on her, vigilant.

Suddenly, Ishika stirred and called out, "Sahil."

He immediately stood, walking over to her.

"Can you undo the handcuffs?" she asked, her voice low but steady. "I need to go to the bathroom."

Sahil paused, studying her for a moment. Considering how much she had eaten earlier, he decided it was a reasonable request. He unlocked the handcuffs, his movements cautious, and helped her to the bathroom.

Before opening the door, he said firmly, "Just come out when you're done. Don't try anything."

"I know," Ishika replied, her tone slightly irritated.

As she disappeared inside, Sahil waited outside the door, his posture tense. Moments passed, and the silence stretched. Finally, he called out, "Are you done?"

"Shut up!" she snapped from inside.

Her sharp tone startled him into silence. He stood there, counting the seconds, his mind restless as he waited for her to emerge.

When she finally stepped out, her expression was calmer, but there was a playful glint in her eyes. Sahil led her back to the bed, deciding against shackling her again. He sat beside her and gently helped her close her eyes with his fingers.

"Sleep," he murmured.

She obeyed for a moment, her lashes fluttering shut, but soon opened them again, her gaze teasing. The look in her eyes seemed to say, "Can you help me close my eyes again?"

Sahil sighed, speechless. Ishika began to fidget, her fingers playing with the handcuffs, then with his fingers. Before he knew it, she had shackled one of his wrists to hers. Sahil didn't mind to be shackled like this by her, if it could make her calm down.

Time passed, and Sahil's exhaustion began to weigh on him. He blinked his heavy eyes and noticed Ishika had finally fallen asleep, her hand resting on the edge of the bed. Her breathing was slow and steady, her face peaceful.

Relieved, he carefully unshackled his wrist and stood to cover her with a blanket. But as he leaned closer, he noticed her face was flushed. Concerned, he reached out and touched her forehead-it was burning hot.

A wave of worry coursed through him. Raj had advised against giving her more medication for now, so Sahil had to rely on traditional methods.

He fetched a bowl of cool water and a cloth, his movements quiet and deliberate. The house was still, the servants long asleep. He returned to her side and gently wiped her face and neck, his touch careful and tender.

Her clothes were drenched in sweat, clinging to her fevered body. Hesitating for only a moment, Sahil decided to change her into something dry. The housekeeper had left a clean hospital gown earlier, and he used it to dress her with as much respect and care as he could muster.

By the time he finished, the first rays of dawn were creeping through the curtains. Exhausted, he laid down beside her bed. Just as he closed his eyes, the woman shifted and moved closer to him, her hot hand resting on his forearm.

Her breathing was irregular, and she seemed to be uncomfortable. He couldn't help but glance at her. Her face was no longer as red as before, so her fever might have subsided a bit.

He adjusted the blanket over her, his movements gentle. She stirred again, murmuring something incoherent under her breath. Her brows furrowed, and she clutched at the fabric of his sleeve as though seeking reassurance.

Sahil's heart clenched at the sight. He hesitated for a moment before reaching out, his hand brushing against her damp hair. He smoothed it away from her face, his fingers lingering for a moment longer than necessary.

"You're okay now," he whispered, his voice low and soothing, though he wasn't sure if he was saying it for her or for himself.

Ishika shifted again, her head now resting against his shoulder. The proximity startled him, but he didn't move. Instead, he let her stay there, her soft breaths fanning against his neck.

Sahil's body was heavy with fatigue, but he couldn't bring himself to close his eyes. His gaze remained fixed on her, watching the subtle rise and fall of her chest, the way her lashes cast delicate shadows on her cheeks. His mind was restless, replaying the events of the night. He had never imagined himself in this situation-watching over Ishika, feeling this strange mix of worry and protectiveness.

Eventually, his own exhaustion overtook him, and his eyes drifted shut. His hand rested protectively on the edge of the blanket, as though even in sleep, he couldn't let his guard down completely.

****

Ishika slept soundly until morning, and when she opened her eyes, the room was already bathed in warm sunlight. Blinking against the brightness, she took in the unfamiliar surroundings. Her body felt as though it had been through a battlefield-her limbs heavy, every movement an effort.

She tried to sit up but found herself unable to move. Confused, she glanced down and realized she was being held firmly in someone's arms. Turning her head, she froze. Sahil was lying beside her, his arm draped protectively over her, the blanket tucked snugly around her.

Her breath hitched as she stared at him, his face peaceful in sleep, though there were faint shadows under his eyes. He looked utterly exhausted.

Carefully, she tried to shift again, but her movement caused him to stir. A low, groggy groan escaped his lips.

"Sleep," he mumbled, his voice raspy and heavy with fatigue.

Ishika stilled, her heart racing. She stared at the ceiling, her mind racing to piece together the events of the night before. A moment later, she took a Sharp breath, turned her head in disbelief and glance at sahil. Was she dreaming? She slapped Sahil. This must be a dream. If it was real , sahil would definitely explode.

She mentally prepared herself, then turned her head and softly called, "Sahil?"

She thought she would have to call him several times to get a response, especially since he looked so tired. Unexpectedly, as soon as he heard her voice, he reacted instantly. He raised his head within a second. His eyes were bloodshot.

"You're awake?" He said.

Ishika nodded. Sahil looked at her and asked, "What happened?"

She glanced at his arms, and he followed her gaze, noticing how he had secured her in his embrace. Suddenly, he remembered why-she had been tossing and turning in her sleep, and he was afraid she might roll out of bed and hurt herself. So, he held her close to keep her safe.

Just then, a knock at the door interrupted them.

"Mr. Malhotra, you need to wake your wife up to eat and take her medicine," a servant called from the other side.

Sahil responded, "Alright," and the servant left.

He turned to Ishika and asked, "How are you feeling now?"

"I'm fine," she replied softly.

He nodded and headed to the washroom.

Left alone, Ishika sat up slowly, feeling a bit dizzy. She glanced down and realized she was wearing a hospital gown. Confusion washed over her-she couldn't remember when she had woken up. The last thing she recalled was Vani and Sahil giving her medicine. After that, everything was a blank. She placed a hand on her chest, trying to calm herself.

***

Ishika knew that the onset of her illness would leave her confused, so she chose to remain silent until she could get a clearer picture of the situation. Someone came in to deliver breakfast, and she slipped into the bathroom.

When she returned, Sahil was already sitting under the window, and the sunlight was streaming down on their breakfast. However, he didn't seem to have much of an appetite and had no expression on his face.

Ishika walked over and sat opposite Sahil. As soon as he saw her, he immediately started putting food on her plate. Ishika felt a pang of unease at this sudden change in his behavior.

She glanced out the window, trying to distract herself. Is this a hospital? she wondered. But as she studied the view outside, it didn't resemble a hospital at all. Her gaze dropped to the hospital gown she was wearing, and a wave of fear coursed through her.

Could this be a mental hospital?

Her heart raced as the thought took hold. She stood abruptly and moved to the window, peering outside for a moment before turning back to Sahil.

"Sahil, I'm not crazy," she said, her voice trembling.

Sahil furrowed his brows, his eyes narrowing in concern. He noticed the anxiety etched on her face and immediately understood what she meant.

"It's not a mental institution, Ishika. Just calm down and eat your breakfast," he said gently, his tone reassuring.

Relief washed over her at his words, and she nodded, sitting back down. She picked up her fork and started eating, though her appetite was minimal. She took small, hesitant bites, her mind still unsettled.

Sahil, too, ate in silence, though his exhaustion was evident. With the events of the previous day weighing heavily on him, his appetite was nearly nonexistent. His mind swirled with thoughts of Ishika-her episode, her vulnerability, and the way she seemed to lose control of herself.

Ishika was a member of the Singh family, born into wealth and privilege. Sahil knew that something far more significant than mere punishment must have caused the deep-seated trauma she carried. He wanted to ask her about it, to understand the root of her pain, but he held back.

She had only just regained her senses, and he feared that forcing her to relive the past might break her fragile composure. For now, he resolved to wait and support her in silence, even as his heart ached to know the truth.

***

Around 9 o'clock, Ishika, wrapped in a shawl, saw Yash carrying bags as he entered through the window. Seeing a familiar face made her happy.

"Yash!"

Yash paused by the window and smiled. "Ms. Ishika, are you feeling better?"

Ishika nodded. "I'm much better now."

"That's good."

Yash lifted the items in his hands. "Sir asked me to bring you some clothes. You can change into these."

"Thank you."

Yash nodded and went inside the house. Ishika turned to see Sahil, who was watching her. Whenever she looked at him, she found him gazing back at her. She blinked and quickly looked away, feeling both amused and slightly unsettled.

***

Inside, Sahil was engaged in a conversation with an elderly man in his seventies or eighties. Yash, meanwhile, was unpacking daily necessities and helping the elderly man arrange them neatly.

The elderly man noticed Ishika and smiled warmly. "Please have a seat and take the medicine. It'll help you feel more comfortable."

Ishika nodded and thanked him.

She received the medicine, a dark concoction that gave off a strange scent. As soon as she approached, Yash handed her a piece of candy. She responded with a thankful smile.

Sahil, still listening to the elderly man's analysis of her condition, turned around to see this scene, raising his eyebrows slightly.

Once the elderly man finished speaking, he turned to Ishika. "I'll check on you later. If everything's okay, you won't need the medicine anymore. Just make sure to take care of yourself."

"I will," Ishika said softly.

She looked at the bowl of medicine, took a deep breath, and drank it all in one gulp. The bitter taste almost brought tears to her eyes, but she quickly popped the candy into her mouth to counteract it.

Afterward, Ishika leaned against the window, her head squeezed between the railings. She noticed a puppy playing near some colorful flowers outside.

Rubbing her eyes, she made eye contact with the puppy outside.

"Hello..."

The puppy turned its head and wagged its tail in response, making her smile.

Sahil, who had finished his conversation, looked in her direction. The sunlight streaming through the window created a halo above her head, and even though her complexion wasn't at its best, her serene smile made her look extraordinarily gentle.

"Sahil, can I go outside?" she asked.

Sahil glanced at her, then at the window. He hesitated before replying, "Ishika, you're still recovering. It might not be a good idea to go outside just yet."

Her smile faltered as she turned her gaze back to the puppy, which was now playfully rolling in the grass.

"I'll stay close to the house," she said softly, almost pleading. "I just want to feel the sun and... maybe pet the puppy."

Sahil sighed, running a hand through his hair. He couldn't bring himself to say no, especially when she looked so vulnerable yet determined. "Fine," he said finally, "but only for a few minutes. And I'll come with you."

Her face lit up, and for the first time in what felt like ages, she looked genuinely happy.

She received the clothes Yash had brought, changed into them, and followed Sahil to the courtyard. As they stepped onto the soft grass, the sunlight seemed to embrace her, making her pause and close her eyes as if savoring the moment.

The puppy noticed her immediately and bounded over, its tiny tail wagging furiously. Ishika crouched down, holding out her hand. The puppy sniffed her fingers before nuzzling into her palm. She laughed-a soft, melodious sound that made Sahil's chest tighten.

"You like him?" Sahil asked, standing a few steps away, his hands in his pockets.

"I love him," she said without hesitation, scratching behind the puppy's ears. "What's his name?"

"That's Teddy," Sahil replied. "He's Mr.Mehra's dog. This is his residence, and he's been kind enough to let us stay here while you recover."

Ishika looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Teddy? That's such a sweet name."

Sahil chuckled softly.

They stayed outside for a while, with Ishika playing with Teddy and Sahil keeping a watchful eye on her. For a brief moment, the heaviness between them seemed to lift, replaced by something lighter, almost hopeful.

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, Sahil gently touched her shoulder. "We should head back inside now. You need to rest."

Ishika nodded, reluctantly standing up. "Okay."

As they walked back inside, Teddy trotted along behind them, his tail wagging happily.

___________________________________

End of the chapter.

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