Author pov....
Deeksha gently held Ishani’s hand, her voice soft but firm.“Ishani didi… you should go home. Take Ishaan with you. What will you both do here in the hospital? Deepak and I are here for Mannat.”
Ishani’s heart resisted the idea instantly.
Every part of her wanted to stay back, to sit beside Mannat, to watch over her through the night.
But when she looked at Ishaan in her arms, she sighed quietly and nodded.
“Okay… but if there’s any problem, you’ll tell me, right?”
Deeksha gave a small reassuring nod.
Ishani adjusted Ishaan in her arms and smiled faintly. “Ishaan, say bye to Mannat didi.”
Ishaan waved his tiny hand, “Bye…”
Mannat, lying weakly on the hospital bed, managed a soft smile and waved back, “Bye…”
Ishani stepped closer to her, her eyes filled with warmth and concern. “Mannat, we’ll come again tomorrow to see you, okay?”
“Okay, aunty…” Mannat replied softly.
Ishani smiled, hiding the heaviness in her heart, and slowly walked out of the hospital room.
The corridor felt colder than before as she began to leave, but just then.“Ishani didi!”
She turned back. Deepak was walking quickly toward her.
“You’re going home, right?” he asked.
“Yes…”
“How will you go alone? It’s already night… and Delhi isn’t very safe at this hour.” His voice carried genuine concern. “Rahul is here in the hospital. He’s leaving too. You should go with him.”
Ishani hesitated for a moment, then nodded with a small smile. “Okay…”
Together, they walked downstairs to the hospital’s lower floor.
Rahul was standing nearby, talking to a doctor about something serious.
Deepak looked at him and called out,
“Rahul…”
Rahul turned at the sound of his name and the moment his eyes fell on Ishani and Deepak, his heartbeat quickened without warning.
Deepak walked up to him, while Ishani stayed a little behind, gently holding Ishaan in her arms.
The child had already fallen asleep, his tiny face resting peacefully against her shoulder.
“You’re heading home, right?” Deepak said. “Take Ishani didi with you. It’s too late for her to go alone… and she has Ishaan with her.”
Rahul glanced at Ishani for a brief second before nodding. “Okay.”
Deepak stepped back and turned to Ishani. “You should go now, didi.”
Ishani gave him a soft look. “Take care of yourself… and Deeksha too.”
Deepak nodded reassuringly.
Rahul had already started walking ahead.
Ishani followed him quietly, her steps slow, careful so she wouldn’t wake Ishaan.
They reached the parking area. Rahul unlocked his car and pulled it out, then quickly stepped out again, walking around to the passenger side.
He opened the front door for her without a word.
Ishani sat down carefully, adjusting Ishaan in her arms so he wouldn’t stir.
“Seatbelt…” Rahul said softly.
She nodded, trying to find it without moving too much. Her eyes searched around in the dim light, her hands hesitating.
“I… I can’t find it,” she whispered, worried that any sudden movement might wake Ishaan.
Rahul had just closed the door, but he paused. For a moment, he stood still then opened it again.
Leaning slightly inside, he reached across her.
His heart started pounding faster than before.
The faint fragrance of her filled the small space between them, reaching him all at once, making him momentarily lose focus.
He quickly looked away, trying to steady himself, and found the seatbelt.
Gently, he pulled it across and secured it for her, being careful not to disturb the sleeping child.
Without saying anything more, he stepped back, closed the door, and walked around to the driver’s side.
A moment later, he was behind the wheel.
The engine started, and the car slowly moved forward into the quiet night.
Ishani kept stealing glances at Rahul as the car moved through the silent streets.
He had changed… a lot.Gone was the boyish charm she once knew.
In its place stood a composed, mature man.
The faint moustache, the sharp features, the calm authority in his posture everything about him spoke of the years that had passed.
He wasn’t the same as Rahul from seven years ago.
He was an IPS officer now… disciplined, controlled, distant.
But somehow… still familiar.
Rahul, without turning his head, could feel her gaze on him.
It had been there for too long.
He didn’t understand why she was looking at him like that.
His grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, his heartbeat growing louder in his chest.
What is she thinking?
The question kept echoing in his mind.
Finally, Ishani broke the silence.
“So… Rahul,” she said casually, “did you ever make a girlfriend?”
The question hit him unexpectedly.
He froze for a split second but kept his eyes on the road. “No…” he replied quietly.
“Why?” she asked, her tone light, almost teasing.
Rahul didn’t have an answer.
Ishani laughed softly.“Don’t tell me,” she continued playfully, “that your childish love for me is still there…”
She laughed again, as if it was nothing more than an old, silly memory.
But Rahul…He went completely still.
His fingers tightened around the steering wheel, his knuckles turning pale. He didn’t say a word.
Ishani, unaware of the storm she had stirred, kept smiling.
“You were so crazy back then,” she added, almost amused. “I was actually scared… when you cut your wrist for me.”
Silence.
Rahul didn’t respond.
Not a single word.
But inside him, everything had started to shake.
When Rahul didn’t say anything, the silence started to feel heavier.
Ishani slowly turned to look at him. The smile faded from her face.
“I’m sorry… did that hurt you?” she asked softly.
Rahul shook his head lightly, his eyes still fixed on the road. “No…”
Ishani gave a small nod. “Hmm…”
After that, she didn’t speak again. She just turned toward the window, watching the blurred city lights pass by, her thoughts lost somewhere she couldn’t quite reach.
The car kept moving in silence.
Suddenly, Ishaan stirred in her arms.
Ishani looked down at him instantly. “What happened?”
Ishaan shook his head sleepily. “Nothing…”
She smiled gently and kissed his forehead. “We’re about to reach home, okay?”
Ishaan nodded, then slowly lifted his gaze, looking around. His eyes fell on Rahul sitting in the front, focused on driving.
For a moment, he just stared.
Then… recognition lit up his face.
Rahul felt a small movement and glanced sideways. His eyes met Ishaan’s.
A soft smile appeared on his lips.
Ishaan smiled back, his tiny hand reaching forward to rest on Rahul’s hand.
Rahul’s smile deepened, warmth flickering in his otherwise guarded expression.
And Ishani…
She quietly watched the two of them.
Something in her eyes softened, as if she was witnessing a moment she didn’t expect but somehow, it felt right.
The car came to a slow halt in front of her building.
Ishani glanced outside, then back at him. “Thank you, Rahul…”
He simply nodded, his expression calm, unreadable.
She stepped out carefully, holding Ishaan. But instead of walking away, she paused near the car… waiting.
Rahul looked at her really looked this time.
For a brief second, something inside him stirred. A quiet urge to step out, to walk beside her, to not let this moment end so easily.
But he suppressed it.
“I have some work,” he said, keeping his tone neutral. “You should go.”
Ishani nodded softly. “Okay.”
Without another word, she turned and walked toward the building, disappearing behind the gate.
Rahul didn’t move.
He just sat there, watching the empty space where she had been moments ago.
“So now I understand, Ishani…” he whispered to himself. “How childish I was… how immature.”
His grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly.
“And maybe because of me… your life changed in ways it shouldn’t have.”
His voice dropped, filled with quiet regret. “I’m sorry…”
The silence inside the car grew deeper.
Yet, she hadn’t really left.
Her faint fragrance still lingered in the air, wrapping around him, making his chest feel heavy.
Rahul leaned back slightly, closing his eyes for a moment.
And in that stillness… it felt like she was still there, sitting beside him just out of reach.
Ishani and Ishaan finally reached home.
As soon as they stepped inside, Ishaan looked up at her and said softly, “Mumma… I’m hungry.”
Ishani’s face instantly softened. She bent down a little, her voice filled with warmth. “Ohh… my baby is hungry? Tell me, what will my Ishaan eat? Mumma will make it quickly for you.”
“Noodles, Mumma,” he replied.
She smiled gently. “Ohh, noodles? Okay. Go sit at the dining table. Mumma will bring it.”
Ishaan nodded obediently and walked to the dining table, climbing onto the chair. While Ishani went into the kitchen, he sat there quietly… but his thoughts were far from simple.
A strange idea kept circling in his little mind—
If I get sick… then I can go where Mannat didi is going to God…
And then… I can meet Papa too.
Lost in that innocent yet painful thought, his eyes suddenly fell on a jar of peanut butter kept nearby.
He stared at it.
And then… he remembered.
Once, he had eaten it and he had fallen very sick afterward.
A small, determined expression crossed his face.
Slowly, he reached for the jar, opened
it, and began eating it with his hands.
One bite… then another… and another without stopping.
By the time Ishani returned with a plate of noodles—
She froze.“Ishaan—!”
Her heart dropped at the sight.
The jar was more than half empty.
She rushed to him instantly, snatching it away, her hands trembling. “Ishaan! Why did you eat this? Mumma told you not to, right? It makes you sick… then why would you eat it?”
Ishaan looked at her with innocent, quiet eyes.
No answer.
Just silence.
Fear gripped Ishani’s chest.
Without wasting another second, she picked him up in her arms, panic rising with every heartbeat.
“Ishaan… are you feeling anything? Tell me, baby… why did you eat it?” her voice shook as she hurried out of the house.
Ishani rushed into the lift, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.
In her arms, Ishaan suddenly began to cry.
“Mumma…” his voice trembled as he scratched at his skin. “It’s itching…”
Within seconds, his face started turning red patches spreading quickly across his skin.
Ishani’s breath hitched.
Fear gripped her completely.
“No… no, Ishaan…” her voice shook as she held him tighter, panic rising every second.
The lift doors opened.
She rushed out and froze.
Rahul was standing right there, waiting for the lift.
He looked up and the moment he saw Ishaan crying, his face flushed red, and Ishani completely panicked his expression changed instantly.
“What happened, Ishani?” he asked, stepping forward.
Ishani looked at him, her eyes filled with fear. “Oh my God, Rahul… please, we need to go to the hospital! Ishaan ate peanut butter he’s allergic… and I don’t even have his medicine with me… please!”
Rahul’s heart dropped at her words, but he quickly steadied himself.
“Okay, okay… nothing will happen,” he said firmly, trying to calm her. “Don’t panic. Come with me.”
Ishani nodded quickly, holding Ishaan close as tears welled up in her eyes.
Without wasting another second, they both rushed out together.
Rahul unlocked the car, and they got in hurriedly Ishani clutching Ishaan tightly, whispering to him, trying to
soothe him as he cried.
The engine roared to life.
Ishaan kept crying, his small body restless as the itching sensation worsened.
“Mumma…” he whimpered, his voice weak and broken.
Ishani held him tightly against her chest, trying her best to stay calm even though her own hands were shaking. “Nothing will happen, baby… you’ll be okay, Mumma is here…”
Her voice kept breaking, but she didn’t stop reassuring him.
Rahul kept driving, his jaw clenched tightly as he glanced at Ishaan again and again.
The sight of the little boy struggling like that unsettled him deeply.
Without thinking further, he suddenly turned the car and stopped it near a small hospital on the way.
Ishani looked up immediately, confusion and fear in her eyes. “Is this hospital okay?”
Rahul nodded quickly. “Yes. Come on, hurry.”
There was no time to think.
He got out first, moving fast, while Ishani followed immediately, carrying Ishaan in her arms.
Together, they rushed inside the hospital.
They rushed into the hospital entrance in a panic.
“Doctor! Please doctor!” Ishani’s voice broke as she carried Ishaan in her arms.
The receptionist immediately looked up, alarmed at the child’s condition his face red, his skin irritated, and his crying weak and uneven.
A nurse quickly came forward. “What happened?”
“He’s allergic!” Ishani said breathlessly. “Peanut butter… he ate peanut butter!”
“Quick, bring him inside!” the nurse ordered instantly.
Rahul followed closely behind as they were rushed into a consultation room.
The atmosphere changed immediately bright lights, quick footsteps, and urgent voices.
“Lay him here,” the doctor said sharply as he entered, already wearing gloves.
Ishani placed Ishaan on the examination bed with shaking hands.
Ishaan cried louder, scratching weakly at his arms. “Mumma…”
“I’m here, baby… I’m here…” Ishani held his hand tightly, tears spilling down her cheeks.
The doctor quickly checked his pulse, then examined his skin.
“Severe allergic reaction,” he said firmly. “But we’ve caught it in time.”
Ishani’s breath trembled. “Is he going to be okay?”
The doctor didn’t waste time. “Yes. But we need to act immediately.”
He turned to the nurse. “Prepare antihistamine injection. Fast.”
“Yes, doctor.”
Rahul stood slightly behind Ishani, watching everything with a tense expression, his hands clenched at his sides.
The nurse quickly prepared the injection while the doctor continued monitoring Ishaan.
“His oxygen is stable, but we need to control the reaction,” the doctor said calmly but firmly. “He will feel better soon.”
Ishani nodded repeatedly, her eyes never leaving Ishaan. “Please… make him okay…”
The nurse returned quickly. “Injection ready, doctor.”
“Hold him gently,” the doctor instructed.
Ishani held Ishaan closer, whispering softly, “It’s okay, baby… just a small pain… Mumma is here…”
The doctor gave the injection carefully.
Ishaan cried for a moment… then slowly his breathing started to settle.
The redness on his skin began to reduce slightly.
Rahul exhaled a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.
The doctor checked again and nodded. “Good. He’s responding well. We’ll keep him under observation for a while.”
Ishani closed her eyes for a second, relief crashing over her as tears continued to fall.
“Thank you… thank you so much,” she whispered.
Rahul stepped slightly forward, his voice low. “He’ll be okay now.”
Ishani nodded, still holding Ishaan's hand tightly.
“It’s okay… Mumma is here… nothing will happen now…” she whispered, though her own voice still trembled.
The doctor checked his pulse again, observing him carefully. The redness had started to reduce, and his breathing was steadier.
Ishani looked up at the doctor, her eyes still filled with fear and concern.
“Doctor…” she said softly, hesitating for a moment, “can I take him home now?”
The doctor glanced at Ishaan, then back at her, his expression calm but firm.
“Not immediately,” he replied. “He’s responding well, but it was a strong allergic reaction. We need to keep him under observation for a few hours, just to be safe.”
Ishani’s grip around Ishaan tightened slightly. “But… he’ll be okay, right?”
“Yes,” the doctor nodded reassuringly. “He’s out of danger for now. But with allergies like this, reactions can sometimes come back. That’s why we don’t take risks.”
Ishani nodded slowly, understanding but still anxious.
“I’ll stay,” she said quietly.
The doctor gave a small nod. “That’s good. We’ll monitor him closely. If everything remains stable, you can take him home later.”
Ishani looked down at Ishaan, gently brushing his hair away from his face.
After sometime Ishaan had finally fallen asleep, his small body resting peacefully after all the chaos.
The redness on his face had faded a little, his breathing soft and even now.
Ishani sat beside him on the bed, holding his tiny hand in both of hers as if letting go, even for a second, might take him away from her.
Her eyes didn’t leave his face.
Not for a moment.
Every slight movement, every small breath she watched it all, her heart still caught somewhere between fear and relief.
Rahul stood a little distance away, silent.
Leaning against the wall, his arms crossed loosely, but his eyes fixed on Ishani.
He could see it—
The way her fingers trembled slightly.
The way her eyes kept searching Ishaan’s face again and again, as if reassuring herself he was really okay.
He wanted to say something.
Anything.
But he didn’t.
He just stood there… watching her silently fall apart.
After a long pause, Ishani spoke her voice barely above a whisper.
“If Abhay was here… this wouldn’t have happened…”
Her fingers tightened around Ishaan’s hand as she kept looking at his face.
“He would’ve fixed everything instantly… he always knew what to do…”
Rahul’s expression stiffened slightly, but he said nothing.
He just listened.
Ishani’s voice started breaking slowly.
“I couldn’t even take care of my own child…”
Her lips trembled.
Tears rolled down her cheeks, falling onto Ishaan’s hand.
“I’m not a good mother…” she whispered, her voice cracking completely. “I couldn’t protect him…”
Her shoulders shook as she finally broke down, trying to keep her cries quiet so she wouldn’t wake him.
Rahul stood a few steps away.
Frozen.
His hands slowly clenched into fists at his sides, his jaw tightening as he watched her break down like this.
Every instinct inside him screamed at him to move—
To go to her.
To pull her into his arms.
To tell her, “Don’t cry like this, Ishani… you’re a good mother… everything will be okay… Ishaan will be fine.”
The words were right there, sitting on the edge of his lips.
But he didn’t move.
Didn’t speak.
It was as if something invisible held him back something stronger than his own emotions.
So he just stood there…
Listening.
Watching.
Enduring.
Ishani wiped her tears with trembling hands, but they didn’t stop.
She kept looking at Ishaan, as if blaming herself for every little mark left on his skin.
It was almost 3 a.m.
The hospital had fallen into a deep, eerie quiet only the faint sounds of footsteps and distant machines breaking the silence.
The doctor entered the room once again for a final check.
Ishani immediately looked up, her eyes tired but alert.
The doctor gently examined Ishaan his breathing steady, the redness almost gone now.
After a moment, he straightened and gave a small nod.
“He’s fine now,” he said calmly. “But you’ll have to be very careful from now on. Make sure he doesn’t eat anything he’s allergic to again. Next time, the reaction could be more serious.”
Ishani nodded quickly, holding onto
every word.
“I’ll prescribe medicines give them to him for the next two days,” the doctor added.
“Okay…” she whispered.
Carefully, she lifted Ishaan into her arms. He didn’t wake up just shifted slightly, still lost in deep sleep, his head resting against her shoulder.
Rahul stepped a little closer. “Shall we go?”
Ishani gave a small nod. “Hmm…”
They walked out together, the quiet corridor stretching endlessly before them.
Soon, they were back in the car.
Ishani sat in the front seat, holding
Ishaan close, gently patting his back in a soft rhythm thap… thap… thap—as if making sure he stayed peaceful, safe.
Her eyes never left him.
Rahul started the car and drove slowly into the silent night.
But his attention kept drifting—
Back to her.
The way she held Ishaan so protectively…
The way her fingers kept moving over his hair…
The way her eyes still carried that lingering fear, even after everything was over.
Rahul glanced at her again—
And then quickly looked back at the road.
The car came to a gentle stop in front of the building.
Ishani glanced outside, then back at him. “Thank you, Rahul…”
He simply nodded, his expression calm, unreadable.
She stepped out carefully, holding Ishaan. But instead of walking away, she paused near the car… waiting.
Rahul looked at her really looked this time.
For a brief second, something inside him stirred. A quiet urge to step out, to walk beside her, to not let this moment end so easily.
But he suppressed it.
“I have some work,” he said, keeping his tone neutral. “You should go.”
Ishani nodded softly. “Okay.”
Without another word, she turned and walked toward the building, disappearing behind the gate.
Rahul didn’t move.
He just sat there, watching the empty space where she had been moments ago.
“So now I understand, Ishani…” he whispered to himself. “How childish I was… how immature.”
His grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly.
“And maybe because of me… your life changed in ways it shouldn’t have.”
His voice dropped, filled with quiet regret. “I’m sorry…”
The silence inside the car grew deeper.
Yet, she hadn’t really left.
Her faint fragrance still lingered in the air, wrapping around him, making his chest feel heavy.
Rahul leaned back slightly, closing his eyes for a moment.
And in that stillness… it felt like she was still there, sitting beside him just out of reach.
Ishani and Ishaan finally reached home.
As soon as they stepped inside, Ishaan looked up at her and said softly, “Mumma… I’m hungry.”
Ishani’s face instantly softened. She bent down a little, her voice filled with warmth. “Ohh… my baby is hungry? Tell me, what will my Ishaan eat? Mumma will make it quickly for you.”
“Noodles, Mumma,” he replied.
She smiled gently. “Ohh, noodles? Okay. Go sit at the dining table. Mumma will bring it.”
Ishaan nodded obediently and walked to the dining table, climbing onto the chair. While Ishani went into the kitchen, he sat there quietly… but his thoughts were far from simple.
A strange idea kept circling in his little mind—
If I get sick… then I can go where Mannat didi is going to God…
And then… I can meet Papa too.
Lost in that innocent yet painful thought, his eyes suddenly fell on a jar of peanut butter kept nearby.
He stared at it.
And then… he remembered.
Once, he had eaten it and he had fallen very sick afterward.
A small, determined expression crossed his face.
Slowly, he reached for the jar, opened
it, and began eating it with his hands.
One bite… then another… and another without stopping.
By the time Ishani returned with a plate of noodles—
She froze.“Ishaan—!”
Her heart dropped at the sight.
The jar was more than half empty.
She rushed to him instantly, snatching it away, her hands trembling. “Ishaan! Why did you eat this? Mumma told you not to, right? It makes you sick… then why would you eat it?”
Ishaan looked at her with innocent, quiet eyes.
No answer.
Just silence.
Fear gripped Ishani’s chest.
Without wasting another second, she picked him up in her arms, panic rising with every heartbeat.
“Ishaan… are you feeling anything? Tell me, baby… why did you eat it?” her voice shook as she hurried out of the house.
Ishani rushed into the lift, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.
In her arms, Ishaan suddenly began to cry.
“Mumma…” his voice trembled as he scratched at his skin. “It’s itching…”
Within seconds, his face started turning red patches spreading quickly across his skin.
Ishani’s breath hitched.
Fear gripped her completely.
“No… no, Ishaan…” her voice shook as she held him tighter, panic rising every second.
The lift doors opened.
She rushed out and froze.
Rahul was standing right there, waiting for the lift.
He looked up and the moment he saw Ishaan crying, his face flushed red, and Ishani completely panicked his expression changed instantly.
“What happened, Ishani?” he asked, stepping forward.
Ishani looked at him, her eyes filled with fear. “Oh my God, Rahul… please, we need to go to the hospital! Ishaan ate peanut butter he’s allergic… and I don’t even have his medicine with me… please!”
Rahul’s heart dropped at her words, but he quickly steadied himself.
“Okay, okay… nothing will happen,” he said firmly, trying to calm her. “Don’t panic. Come with me.”
Ishani nodded quickly, holding Ishaan close as tears welled up in her eyes.
Without wasting another second, they both rushed out together.
Rahul unlocked the car, and they got in hurriedly Ishani clutching Ishaan tightly, whispering to him, trying to
soothe him as he cried.
The engine roared to life.
Ishaan kept crying, his small body restless as the itching sensation worsened.
“Mumma…” he whimpered, his voice weak and broken.
Ishani held him tightly against her chest, trying her best to stay calm even though her own hands were shaking. “Nothing will happen, baby… you’ll be okay, Mumma is here…”
Her voice kept breaking, but she didn’t stop reassuring him.
Rahul kept driving, his jaw clenched tightly as he glanced at Ishaan again and again.
The sight of the little boy struggling like that unsettled him deeply.
Without thinking further, he suddenly turned the car and stopped it near a small hospital on the way.
Ishani looked up immediately, confusion and fear in her eyes. “Is this hospital okay?”
Rahul nodded quickly. “Yes. Come on, hurry.”
There was no time to think.
He got out first, moving fast, while Ishani followed immediately, carrying Ishaan in her arms.
Together, they rushed inside the hospital.
They rushed into the hospital entrance in a panic.
“Doctor! Please doctor!” Ishani’s voice broke as she carried Ishaan in her arms.
The receptionist immediately looked up, alarmed at the child’s condition his face red, his skin irritated, and his crying weak and uneven.
A nurse quickly came forward. “What happened?”
“He’s allergic!” Ishani said breathlessly. “Peanut butter… he ate peanut butter!”
“Quick, bring him inside!” the nurse ordered instantly.
Rahul followed closely behind as they were rushed into a consultation room.
The atmosphere changed immediately bright lights, quick footsteps, and urgent voices.
“Lay him here,” the doctor said sharply as he entered, already wearing gloves.
Ishani placed Ishaan on the examination bed with shaking hands.
Ishaan cried louder, scratching weakly at his arms. “Mumma…”
“I’m here, baby… I’m here…” Ishani held his hand tightly, tears spilling down her cheeks.
The doctor quickly checked his pulse, then examined his skin.
“Severe allergic reaction,” he said firmly. “But we’ve caught it in time.”
Ishani’s breath trembled. “Is he going to be okay?”
The doctor didn’t waste time. “Yes. But we need to act immediately.”
He turned to the nurse. “Prepare antihistamine injection. Fast.”
“Yes, doctor.”
Rahul stood slightly behind Ishani, watching everything with a tense expression, his hands clenched at his sides.
The nurse quickly prepared the injection while the doctor continued monitoring Ishaan.
“His oxygen is stable, but we need to control the reaction,” the doctor said calmly but firmly. “He will feel better soon.”
Ishani nodded repeatedly, her eyes never leaving Ishaan. “Please… make him okay…”
The nurse returned quickly. “Injection ready, doctor.”
“Hold him gently,” the doctor instructed.
Ishani held Ishaan closer, whispering softly, “It’s okay, baby… just a small pain… Mumma is here…”
The doctor gave the injection carefully.
Ishaan cried for a moment… then slowly his breathing started to settle.
The redness on his skin began to reduce slightly.
Rahul exhaled a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.
The doctor checked again and nodded. “Good. He’s responding well. We’ll keep him under observation for a while.”
Ishani closed her eyes for a second, relief crashing over her as tears continued to fall.
“Thank you… thank you so much,” she whispered.
Rahul stepped slightly forward, his voice low. “He’ll be okay now.”
Ishani nodded, still holding Ishaan's hand tightly.
“It’s okay… Mumma is here… nothing will happen now…” she whispered, though her own voice still trembled.
The doctor checked his pulse again, observing him carefully. The redness had started to reduce, and his breathing was steadier.
Ishani looked up at the doctor, her eyes still filled with fear and concern.
“Doctor…” she said softly, hesitating for a moment, “can I take him home now?”
The doctor glanced at Ishaan, then back at her, his expression calm but firm.
“Not immediately,” he replied. “He’s responding well, but it was a strong allergic reaction. We need to keep him under observation for a few hours, just to be safe.”
Ishani’s grip around Ishaan tightened slightly. “But… he’ll be okay, right?”
“Yes,” the doctor nodded reassuringly. “He’s out of danger for now. But with allergies like this, reactions can sometimes come back. That’s why we don’t take risks.”
Ishani nodded slowly, understanding but still anxious.
“I’ll stay,” she said quietly.
The doctor gave a small nod. “That’s good. We’ll monitor him closely. If everything remains stable, you can take him home later.”
Ishani looked down at Ishaan, gently brushing his hair away from his face.
After sometime Ishaan had finally fallen asleep, his small body resting peacefully after all the chaos.
The redness on his face had faded a little, his breathing soft and even now.
Ishani sat beside him on the bed, holding his tiny hand in both of hers as if letting go, even for a second, might take him away from her.
Her eyes didn’t leave his face.
Not for a moment.
Every slight movement, every small breath she watched it all, her heart still caught somewhere between fear and relief.
Rahul stood a little distance away, silent.
Leaning against the wall, his arms crossed loosely, but his eyes fixed on Ishani.
He could see it—The way her fingers trembled slightly.
The way her eyes kept searching Ishaan’s face again and again, as if reassuring herself he was really okay.
He wanted to say something.
Anything.
But he didn’t.
He just stood there… watching her silently fall apart.
After a long pause, Ishani spoke her voice barely above a whisper.
“If Abhay was here… this wouldn’t have happened…”
Her fingers tightened around Ishaan’s hand as she kept looking at his face.
“He would’ve fixed everything instantly… he always knew what to do…”
Rahul’s expression stiffened slightly, but he said nothing.
He just listened.
Ishani’s voice started breaking slowly.
“I couldn’t even take care of my own child…”
Her lips trembled.
Tears rolled down her cheeks, falling onto Ishaan’s hand.
“I’m not a good mother…” she whispered, her voice cracking completely. “I couldn’t protect him…”
Her shoulders shook as she finally broke down, trying to keep her cries quiet so she wouldn’t wake him.
Rahul stood a few steps away.
Frozen.
His hands slowly clenched into fists at his sides, his jaw tightening as he watched her break down like this.
Every instinct inside him screamed at him to move—
To go to her.
To pull her into his arms.
To tell her, “Don’t cry like this, Ishani… you’re a good mother… everything will be okay… Ishaan will be fine.”
The words were right there, sitting on the edge of his lips.
But he didn’t move.
Didn’t speak.
It was as if something invisible held him back something stronger than his own emotions.
So he just stood there…
Listening.
Watching.
Enduring.
Ishani wiped her tears with trembling hands, but they didn’t stop.
She kept looking at Ishaan, as if blaming herself for every little mark left on his skin.
It was almost 3 a.m.
The hospital had fallen into a deep, eerie quiet only the faint sounds of footsteps and distant machines breaking the silence.
The doctor entered the room once again for a final check.
Ishani immediately looked up, her eyes tired but alert.
The doctor gently examined Ishaan his breathing steady, the redness almost gone now.
After a moment, he straightened and gave a small nod.
“He’s fine now,” he said calmly. “But you’ll have to be very careful from now on. Make sure he doesn’t eat anything he’s allergic to again. Next time, the reaction could be more serious.”
Ishani nodded quickly, holding onto
every word.
“I’ll prescribe medicines give them to him for the next two days,” the doctor added.
“Okay…” she whispered.
Carefully, she lifted Ishaan into her arms. He didn’t wake up just shifted slightly, still lost in deep sleep, his head resting against her shoulder.
Rahul stepped a little closer. “Shall we go?”
Ishani gave a small nod. “Hmm…”
They walked out together, the quiet corridor stretching endlessly before them.
Soon, they were back in the car.
Ishani sat in the front seat, holding
Ishaan close, gently patting his back in a soft rhythm thap… thap… thap—as if making sure he stayed peaceful, safe.
Her eyes never left him.
Rahul started the car and drove slowly into the silent night.
But his attention kept drifting—
Back to her.
The way she held Ishaan so protectively…
The way her fingers kept moving over his hair…
The way her eyes still carried that lingering fear, even after everything
was over.
Rahul glanced at her again—
And then quickly looked back at the road.
The car came to a gentle stop in front of the building.
Ishani stepped out carefully, holding Ishaan close against her chest. For a moment, she paused… as if expecting
Rahul to leave like before.
But this time, he didn’t.
Rahul quickly parked the car and came out almost immediately, walking toward her without hesitation.
Ishani turned and began walking ahead. Rahul followed silently behind.
They stepped into the lift together.
The air felt heavy, filled with everything neither of them was saying.
After a few seconds, Ishani spoke softly, her voice carrying quiet gratitude.“Thank you, Rahul… If you weren’t there today… I don’t even want to think about what could’ve happened.”
Rahul shook his head slightly. “It’s nothing, Ishani…”
She looked at him again, her eyes serious this time.“No… it’s not nothing. Because of you, Ishaan is safe. You saved my child.”
Rahul didn’t respond.
He just stood there, eyes fixed ahead, holding back whatever was rising inside him.
The lift stopped.
His floor.
He stepped out, took a few steps… then stopped.
Something made him turn back.
“If… anything happens,” he said quietly, pointing toward his apartment, “I’m right there.”
Ishani followed his gesture, then gave a small, tired smile. “Okay…”
Rahul nodded once—And walked away.
The lift doors closed.
Moments later, it opened again at her floor.
Ishani walked out and made her way home.
Inside, she gently laid Ishaan on the bed, carefully adjusting the blanket around him.
He didn’t stir, still lost in deep sleep, his face calm now.
Ishani sat beside him.
Her body was exhausted, her eyes heavy—But sleep never came.
She stayed there, watching him… every breath, every slight movement.
Her hand rested lightly on him, as if reassuring herself he was really okay.
The night passed slowly.
And Ishani didn’t close her eyes.
Not even for a moment.
Morning arrives quietly, but Ishani hasn’t slept all night. Still, she forces herself to get up, takes a bath, and sits down for her prayers, seeking a little peace amidst the chaos in her heart.
When she’s done, she calls Deeksha. The phone rings, and Deeksha answers.
“Hello, Deeksha… how are you? Is Mannat okay? Everything alright at the hospital?” Ishani asks, her voice filled with concern.
“I’m fine, didi,” Deeksha replies. “I heard Ishaan ate peanut butter and had to be rushed to the hospital. How is he now?”
Ishani frowns slightly. “Who told you?”
“Rahul told Deepak… and then Deepak told me.”
“Oh… I see,” Ishani murmurs. “Ishaan is fine now.”
After a brief pause, she continues, “I was thinking of coming to the hospital… I can bring some food from here. And your clothes too.”
Deeksha gently stops her. “No, didi. You stay with Ishaan. Rajni aunty is coming with Rahul to the hospital. Just send my clothes with them.”
“Alright,” Ishani says softly before ending the call.
She heads into the kitchen and prepares breakfast, carefully packing portions for Deeksha, Deepak, and Mannat. Just as she finishes, the doorbell rings.
She opens the door to find Rahul standing there.
A small smile touches her lips. “Rahul, come in.”
Rahul says, “I needed Deeksha’s clothes.”
"Yes, I know I’ll go get them. At least come inside." she insists.
After a little hesitation, he agrees and walks in.
Ishani quickly goes to the kitchen and brings something for him to eat.
Rahul watches her silently as she approaches.
“There’s no need for that I’ve already had breakfast.”he says.
“Just a little,” she insists softly. “I’ve packed breakfast for everyone… please take it along. I’ll bring Deeksha’s clothes.”
She walks inside again.
Rahul watches her leave, a thought crossing his mind (When will she ever think about herself? She’s still the same… always putting others first.)
When Ishani returns, she notices the plate untouched. A hint of sadness clouds her expression.
Rahul catches that look. Without saying anything, he picks up a biscuit from the plate and takes a bite.
That small gesture is enough for her face lights up with quiet happiness.
Rahul collects the bags and asks, “Ishaan is okay now?”
“Yes… he’s sleeping. He’s fine,” she replies gently.
He nods and walks out.
Ishani then quickly rushes back to Ishaan.
Ishaan is already awake, his eyes filled with tears as he starts crying softly, “Mumma…”
Ishani immediately runs to him, panic rising in her voice. “What happened, baby? Tell me, where does it hurt?”
Ishaan sniffles and points to his face. “Mumma… my face is itchy.”
Ishani sits beside him at once, gently cupping his face with her hands. Her touch is careful, soothing she softly strokes his skin, making sure he doesn’t scratch it more.
“Don’t scratch, okay? It’ll get worse,” she says in a calm, reassuring tone. “It’s going to be fine.”
Gradually, Ishaan’s crying slows. He nods slightly, leaning into her warmth. “Okay… it’s better now.”
Ishani holds him close for a moment, then softly speaks again, though her voice carries a hint of worry.
“Ishaan… I told you, didn’t I? You shouldn’t have eaten peanut butter. Then why did you eat it?”
Ishaan doesn’t answer. He lowers his eyes, silent and scared. Slowly, he wraps his small arms around her and hides in her embrace.
Ishani sighs quietly, the anger she wanted to show melting away the moment she feels him trembling. She doesn’t question him further. Instead, she just holds him closer.
Meanwhile in hospital.The doctor adjusted his glasses and looked at both of them gently.“We’ve finalized everything. Mannat’s transplant will take place in two days.”
For a moment, neither Deepak nor Deeksha spoke.
The reality of it settled slowly, like a weight pressing on their chests.
Deeksha’s fingers tightened around the edge of her dress.
Her voice came out soft, almost trembling.“Doctor… will it hurt her?”
The doctor leaned forward, his tone
calm and reassuring.“No, not during the procedure. Mannat will be under anesthesia. She won’t feel any pain while it’s happening.”
Deeksha nodded, but her eyes remained filled with fear.“And after that…? What exactly will happen?”
The doctor began explaining patiently, making sure every word was clear.“We will take healthy bone marrow cells from Deepak. It’s a safe process for the donor. Then, these cells will be transferred into Mannat’s body through an IV, similar to a blood transfusion. Over time, these new cells will start creating healthy blood cells inside her.”
Deepak finally spoke, his voice steady but filled with concern.“So… she’ll be okay, right?”
The doctor gave a small, reassuring smile.“This is her best chance. The next few weeks will be critical, but we’ll be monitoring her closely.”
Deeksha lowered her gaze, her fear mixing with hope.
Deepak quietly moved his hand over hers, giving it a gentle squeeze.
“Nothing will happen to her,” he said softly, trying to sound stronger than he felt. “Mannat is brave… just like her mother.”
Deeksha looked at him, her eyes glistening, silently holding onto his words.
Deeksha and Deepak step out of the doctor’s cabin.
Deepak doesn’t let go of Deeksha’s hand even for a moment.
He gently squeezes it from time to time, silently reassuring her that he is there that nothing will happen to Mannat, and he will handle everything.
Deeksha holds on to that reassurance.
His presence steadies her, and slowly, her shaken heart begins to believe him. Together, they walk forward.
As they move ahead, Rajni and Rahul arrive.
Rajni notices them first and immediately asks, concern in her voice, “Deepak… Deeksha… how is Mannat now?”
Deepak looks at her and replies calmly, “Yes maa… she is fine. Mannat’s bone marrow transplant is scheduled after two days.”
Hearing this, Rajni exhales in relief, as if a weight has been lifted from her chest. But even then, a trace of worry remains in her eyes.
Softly, she says, “God will make everything alright.”
Rahul listens quietly beside her. The words sink into him. For a moment, he closes his eyes and silently prays too hoping, wishing that Mannat recovers completely and returns to good health soon.
Two days later, the air in the hospital is thick with a mix of anxiety and quiet hope.
Deepak prepares himself for the bone marrow extraction, a procedure that carries the weight of his daughter’s future.
The waiting area is crowded with familiar faces—Rahul, Ishani, Deeksha, and Rajni are all there, a silent support system anchored in the sterile hallway.
When Kiara arrives and sees Deepak, she doesn't hesitate.
She rushes to him, pulling him into a tight embrace. "Everything will be fine, boyfriend," she says softly, her voice steady despite the surroundings. "Your daughter is going to come out of this healthy and happy."
Deepak offers a small, tired smile, but nearby, Deeksha stands like a statue.
Her eyes are fixed on Deepak, a sharp, unblinking stare that carries a weight of unspoken discomfort. Deepak, preoccupied with the gravity of the day, remains oblivious to her gaze as he focuses on Kiara.
"Well, now that my 'girlfriend' has said it," Deepak teases gently, "I suppose everything has to go well."
Kiara beams, but Deepak tilts his head, curious. "Wait, how did you even get to the hospital?"
Kiara leans in, whispering playfully, "I came with Hitler."
The color drains from Deepak’s face. "Bhavya? Bhavya is here?"
"Yes," Kiara sighs. "I had to beg and plead forever before she finally agreed to drive me."
Deepak can’t help but let out a short, genuine laugh. He looks past the group and spots her.
Bhavya is indeed there, standing at a distance with her usual guarded expression.
Even Rahul is stunned to see her he approaches her slowly, a look of disbelief on his face."Bhavya? You’re actually here?"
Bhavya immediately shifts into a defensive stance, brushing it off with a sharp wave of her hand. " I was going to duty when I met Kiara and she started talking and wouldn't stop pestering me to bring her here, so I just came to drop her off. But... I figured since I was already here, I might as well wish Deepak luck."
Rahul watches her, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
He sees right through the deflection he knows she’s masking her concern with her trademark toughness.
"Right, of course," Rahul says, choosing not to push her. "Well, go on then. Go see him. He’s heading into surgery now."
Bhavya blinks, her composure slipping for just a fraction of a second.
"Oh," she murmurs, her eyes finally drifting toward Deepak.
Bhavya walks over to Deepak. He shifts his gaze from Kiara to her, waiting for the usual sharp remark.
True to form, Bhavya speaks with her typical lack of emotion, her voice flat and detached."All the best," she says. "You and your daughter will both be fine."
Deepak nods silently, his eyes full of gratitude. For a moment, they just stand there Bhavya stiff and unmoving, Deepak watching her, neither of them saying a word.
Then, without warning, Bhavya reaches out and pulls Deepak into a sudden hug.
The entire waiting room goes still. Rahul, Kiara, and the others watch in absolute shock seeing Bhavya show this kind of vulnerability is like witnessing a solar eclipse.
Deepak’s arms hang awkwardly at his sides, stunned by the gesture.
Bhavya pulls back just enough to
whisper a final warning. "You better come out of there okay. If you don't, I’ll find your ghost and shoot you all over again."
Deepak breaks into a laugh, the tension finally snapping. "Can’t you just say something nice for once? It’s always a threats with you."
Bhavya pulls away completely, her face returning to its icy mask. "That was my version of 'best of luck,'" she retorts.
She doesn't wait for a reply. She turns on her heel and marches back to stand next to Rahul. Rahul is beaming, a wide, knowing grin plastered across his face.
"Your teeth are showing way too much, Rahul," Bhavya snaps. "Close your mouth."
Rahul immediately wipes the smile off his face, but his eyes are still dancing with amusement.
As Bhavya settles in, her gaze wanders across the room until it lands on Ishani.
Ishani is already watching her, her expression unreadable.
At first, Bhavya doesn't recognize her.
She stares for a long beat, searching her memory, until it suddenly clicks.
The face, the eyes it’s the woman from the photo in Rahul’s diary.
The realization hits Bhavya like a physical blow. It’s her. It’s Ishani.
Bhavya stands frozen, her mask of indifference finally shattered by genuine shock.
Meanwhile, Deepak heads toward the procedure room.
Deeksha walks alongside him, the tension between them momentarily set aside for the sake of the moment.
Deepak looks at her, his voice steady despite the circumstances. "Mannat will be fine, okay?"
Deeksha simply nods, unable to find the words.
Deepak enters the room and lies down as the doctors begin the extraction procedure.
Deeksha steps out and heads back to Mannat’s side.
She sits with her, speaking softly and showering her with sweet words to keep her calm, all while silently praying that everything goes exactly as planned.
A short while later, the doctors came for Mannat. "Everything is going to be okay," Deeksha whispers, stroking her hair. "There will be just a little bit of discomfort, my brave girl."
Mannat looks up and gives a small, trusting "Okay."
They wheel Mannat into the operating theater. There, the doctors begin the final stage of the journey the bone marrow that was just extracted from
Deepak is carefully transplanted into Mannat, giving her the precious second chance at life they had all been fighting for.
Hours pass in a heavy, agonizing silence until the doctors finally emerge from the operation room.
They deliver the news everyone had been praying for Mannat’s transplant was a complete success.
Relief washes over the group like a tidal wave.
In the emotional rush, Ishani immediately pulls Deeksha into a tight hug. "See? I told you everything would be fine!" she cries, her voice thick with emotion. "Mannat is going to be okay now. Everything is going to fall into place."
Deeksha, overwhelmed, can only offer a quiet, "Hmm," as she tries to process the news.
Rahul steps forward, his concern shifting to his friend. "And what about Deepak, Doctor? How is he?"
"He is doing well too," the doctor reassured him. "However, both of them need to remain under strict observation for now. Once they regain consciousness and we’ve assessed their stability, I will come and let you know."
Rahul nods, letting out a breath he feels like he’s been holding for a lifetime. "Okay. Thank you, Doctor."
After some time, Deepak slowly opens his eyes. A sharp, throbbing pain radiates from his hip, but his first thought isn't about himself.
He weakly calls out to the nurse, "How is my daughter? Is she okay?"
The nurse smiles warmly at him. "The transplant was a success. Your daughter is doing well."
Deepak’s eyes fill with tears this time, tears of pure joy. He actually did it; he saved his little girl.
When the nurse asks if he is experiencing any severe pain or discomfort, he simply shakes his head. "No, I’m fine," he insists, the relief of Mannat's safety masking his own physical agony.
The nurse heads outside to inform the group that Deepak is awake. Deeksha sighs in visible relief.
Rajni, unable to wait a moment longer, asks, "Can I see my son now?"
The nurse nods, and Rajni rushes into the room. Seeing Deepak with tears in his eyes breaks her heart she leans down, kissing his forehead tenderly. "Are you alright, Deepak?"
"I’m fine, Maa," Deepak says softly.
"The transplant was successful, Deepak. Mannat is safe," Rajni says, her voice trembling.
"I know, Maa. I heard," he replies with a weak smile.
Just then, Deeksha enters the room. She looks at him, her voice barely a whisper. "Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm okay, Deeksha," he responds.
Rajni looks between the two of them and senses they need a moment alone. "I'll be right back; I'm just going to the washroom," she says.
Deeksha nods, "Yes, Aunty," and Rajni steps out.
Deeksha stands by the bed, a storm of emotions swirling inside her.
She doesn't know how to put into words that he hasn't just saved Mannat he saved her, too. If anything had happened to mannat Deeksha wouldn't have been able to live.
Deepak notices her silence and the look in her eyes. "What is it, Deeksha? Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," she says, her voice thick. "Thank you. Thank you for saving my daughter's life."
Deepak looks at her firmly. "You don't ever need to say thank you for that, Deeksha. Mannat is my daughter, too. I would give my life to her without a second thought."
Deeksha simply nods, the weight of his words settling between them.
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