Gopi quickly called the police and informed them about the attack. He also called Vivek's father, updating him on the situation.
Meanwhile, Gayathri was by Vivek's side in the surgery room. Their friend, surgeon Prasanth, worked meticulously to reattach Vivek's severed hand.
The surgery was a success, and Gayathri breathed a sigh of relief. After the surgery, she checked her phone and saw numerous missed calls from Vivek's father and Gopi.
She called Vivek's father to update him on Vivek's condition. "Dad, the surgery was successful. Vivek is recovering now," she informed him.
"Thank God," Vivek's father replied, his voice filled with relief. "We are on our way to the hospital. Please take care of him."
Gayathri assured him that she would. Soon, a police officer arrived at the hospital to take Gayathri's statement.
"Ma'am, can you tell me what happened?" the officer asked.
Gayathri explained the events of the night, including the attack and the masked men. "They cut off Vivek's hand, saying it was revenge for beating up someone in college," she elaborated.
The officer listened attentively, taking notes. "We'll do everything we can to catch the perpetrators," he assured Gayathri.
Four hours passed, and Vivek slowly opened his eyes to see Gayathri sitting beside him.
"Gayathri..." he whispered, his voice weak. "Did they hurt you?"
Gayathri was taken aback by Vivek's concern. "I'm here, Vivek, and I'm fine," she replied, holding his hand. "You're safe now."
Vivek winced in pain, looking at his bandaged hand. "What...what happened to my hand?" he asked.
Gayathri explained the surgery and the successful reattachment of his hand. Vivek nodded, still looking pale.
"It hurts," he whispered, his eyes welling up with tears.
Gayathri gently stroked his hair. "I know, Vivek. But you're going to be okay. You're strong."
Vivek smiled weakly, his eyes locked on Gayathri's. "I'm sorry, Gayathri," he whispered. "I'm so sorry for everything."
Gayathri's eyes welled up with tears. "We can discuss it later," she said softly.