Naina slowly opened her eyes, confusion swirling in her mind like the hospital lights above her. The sterile smell of antiseptic was overwhelming, and her heart raced as she recalled the chaotic moments at the coffee shopâthe rush of orders, Jamesâs startled expression, and then the darkness that had enveloped her.
As reality set in, she instinctively touched her belly, anxiety gripping her. She felt a reassuring kick. Relief washed over her; her babies were okay.
âBabies are fine, but youâre not okay,â came Jamesâs voice from the corner of the room, cutting through her thoughts. He looked worried, his brows furrowed. âYou need to talk to Rivaan. Heâs been looking for you.â
Nainaâs heart sank at the mention of Rivaan. âWhy should I tell him anything? He never listens to me,â she protested, frustration spilling over. âHe believes his mother over me. I donât want to talk about him!â
James leaned forward, his expression earnest. âBut you canât keep working like this. If you donât mind, I can help you.â
Before Naina could respond, a nurse entered the room. âThe doctor will be here to check on you shortly,â she said, offering a brief smile before leaving.
Naina turned her gaze back to James, her mind racing. His offer hung in the air like a lifeline, but her pride and hurt held her back. âIâll think about it,â she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper.
James nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. But as the weight of her situation pressed down on her, Naina knew that her path forward was still shrouded in uncertainty.