Chapter 44: 39. Caring moments

Darshil had just fallen back into a light sleep, his breathing steady. Aarvi remained by his side, her hand still clasped in his, unwilling to let go. She still didn't get her other hand treated because she wanted to stay with him. The weight of the last few days—the fear, the tears, and now the relief—had left her drained, but she couldn’t tear herself away from him. Her heart felt lighter now that he was safe, his words still echoing in her mind.

The doctor entered the room again, accompanied by Nandini Ji, Poorva, Shiv, and Daksh. They all looked at Darshil anxiously as the doctor began to check his vitals, scanning the monitors and adjusting his IV. After a few moments, the doctor turned toward the family, offering a reassuring smile.

He’s doing much better now. His vitals are stable, and he’s just weak. With some rest, he’ll recover fully. He needs to take it easy for a while, but there’s no need to worry. The doctor said calmly.

A collective sigh of relief washed over the room. Poorva immediately hugged Nandini Ji, who had been holding back her tears for too long. Shiv stood next to them, his hand resting on Poorva’s shoulder for support, while Daksh gave a firm nod, his tense expression finally relaxing.

Darshil stirred, his eyes slowly opening again. He saw his family gathered around him, their faces filled with concern but also a glimmer of relief. His gaze immediately went to Poorva.

Poorva.....don’t cry. I’m alright. Darshil said

Nandini ji stepped forward, her hands trembling as she touched his cheek gently, her tears now freely flowing.

I knew you would make it, beta. I never doubted it, not for a second. Nandini ji said

Darshil’s eyes softened as he looked at his grandmother. Despite her age and the overwhelming stress, her faith in him had never wavered. He reached for her hand, squeezing it gently.

Poorva moved closer to Darshil’s bed, still emotional but managing a smile. Her voice wavered slightly, but she tried to remain strong.

You scared us, bhai. We couldn’t sleep, couldn’t eat. Aarvi… she…Poorva said but her words trailed off as her gaze flickered toward Aarvi, who stood silently beside Darshil’s bed.

Darshil turned to Shiv and Daksh, who had been pillars of strength during the whole ordeal. His voice filled with gratitude.

Shiv, Daksh… thank you. For taking care of my family. For handling everything when I couldn’t. And especially for looking after Aarvi. Darshil said in a weak voice.

You don’t need to thank us, Darshil. We just did what had to be done. After all we are family. Aarvi’s strong, but this time… she needed us. Shiv said with a soft smile

Daksh nodded in agreement, but his eyes shifted to Aarvi, who had been unusually quiet.

Aarvi didn’t leave your side for a second, even after the doctor said you were out of danger. She cried… she cried a lot, Darshil. Daksh said

Darshil’s gaze moved to Aarvi. Her face was pale, her eyes red and swollen from crying, and her hands still slightly trembling. His heart clenched at the sight of her in such distress. His voice softened, filled with concern.

Hazel.... Darshil said gently

But before he could say more, his eyes fell on her hand. The blood-soaked cloth wrapped around her hand immediately caught his attention, and his expression changed from concern to alarm, as he tried to sit up but everyone stopped him.

Hazel… What happened to your hand? Why is there blood? Darshil asked

Aarvi quickly tried to hide her hand but it was too late. Everyone looked at her, the tension into the room shifting. Darshil tried to sit up, his muscles straining, but Aarvi and the others quickly moved to stop him.

Darshil, don’t move! It’s nothing, I’m fine. Aarvi said

Bhai, don’t sit up yet. You’re too weak! Poorva said

Darshil refused to relax, his eyes now locked on Aarvi’s injured hand, his breath coming quicker as panic set in. He couldn’t bear the thought of her being hurt—especially while he had been unconscious.

Hazel, let me see your hand. What happened? Darshil said

Aarvi hesitated, but the others couldn’t hide the truth any longer as Nandini ji exchanged glances with Poorva and Daksh with Shiv.

She wouldn’t let anyone treat her, beta. She refused to have her hand looked at until you woke up. Nandini ji said

She cut her hand, and we tried to get her to the doctor, but she said she wouldn’t do anything until you opened your eyes. Daksh said

Darshil’s heart sank further. He couldn’t believe the lengths Aarvi had gone to, her stubbornness so deeply tied to her fear of losing him. His voice dropped to a whisper, filled with both frustration and deep emotion.

Hazel...why? Why didn’t you get treated? Darshil asked in a voice almost scolding

Aarvi looked down, her eyes welling up again.

I couldn’t… I just couldn’t. I needed to see you awake first. Also, it is nothing to worry, I am fine. Aarvi said weakly

Darshil's eyes darken with worry, his gaze never leaving Aarvi. He felt a surge of emotions — guilt, concern and a deep sense of protectiveness. She had been suffering and he didn't even know.

Hazel, this isn't nothing. You've hurt yourself and I won't let you ignore it. Darshil said firmly

Darshil’s jaw tightened. He turned to the nurse, his tone now urgent and commanding.

Please, treat her hand. Bandage it here, in front of me, NOW. I need to see that she’s okay. Darshil said

The nurse moved quickly, coming to Aarvi’s side and gently unwrapping the blood-soaked cloth from her hand. As the cloth fell away, everyone in the room gasped. Small shards of glass were embedded in her skin, and the cut ran deeper than they had imagined.

Darshil’s breath hitched as he saw the extent of the injury. His heart throbbed painfully in his chest, his eyes wide with shock and anger—not at her, but at the thought of her enduring this pain.

Hazel, this is serious. Why didn’t you tell anyone? Darshil said, being horrified

The nurse carefully removed the tiny shards of glass, and Darshil’s grip on the bed tightened. His eyes were locked on her hand, horrified by the sight of her suffering.

I didn’t want anyone to worry about me. I just… I just wanted you to be okay. Aarvi said

Darshil’s eyes burned as he watched the nurse clean and disinfect the wound. His heart ached knowing that she had silently bled for him, waiting, suffering in her own way. As the nurse wrapped the clean bandage around her hand, Darshil’s voice came out in a soft, scolding tone.

Hazel you have to take care of yourself too. You can’t do this. Darshil said

Aarvi smiled faintly, tears brimming in her eyes as she looked at him. She couldn’t help but feel that even his scolding was filled with love.

I couldn’t think of anything but you, Darshil. I was scared, I couldn’t lose you. Aarvi said

Darshil’s heart swelled, his eyes closing for a moment as he struggled to keep his emotions in check.

You’re too feisty for anyone to handle… including me. Darshil said half smiling, his eyes still closed

A soft laugh filled the room, the tension easing as Darshil’s teasing words broke through the heavy atmosphere. Poorva smiled through her tears, while Shiv and Daksh exchanged relieved glances.

Darshil opened his eyes again, looking at Aarvi with a mixture of love, relief, and exasperation.

It was evening time, when the room gradually emptied as the doctor advised everyone to let Darshil rest after his emotional reunion with his family. Shiv, Daksh, Poorva, and Nandini Ji gathered their things, preparing to leave, though their reluctance was clear.

Shiv, I need you to manage things at the office for a while. I’ll be here for a few days, and I can’t let things fall behind. Darshil said

Don’t worry, I’ve got everything under control. Focus on resting. We’ll handle it. Shiv said

Shiv’s reassuring tone brought a sense of calm to Darshil, and with a nod, he turned to Nandini Ji, Poorva, and little Ruhi, who was struggling to keep her eyes open after a long and tiring day.

Dadi, Poorva, take Ruhi home and get some rest. You’ve all been here long enough. I’ll stay with him. Aarvi said

Aarvi, you need rest too, beta. You’ve hardly slept or eaten. Come with us. Nandini ji said

Yes, Bhabi. You’ve been through so much. We’ll stay with him. Poorva said

No. Darshil needs me here. I’ll rest later, but I’m not leaving his side tonight. Please, take Ruhi home. She needs her sleep. Just send my clothes, I'll change, these clothes are completely blood stained. Aarvi said

Nandini Ji sighed but finally relented, seeing the determination in Aarvi’s eyes. Poorva gave Aarvi a gentle hug before they left, and Ruhi waved sleepily as she was carried out.

Okay, Take care of him and yourself, beta. Nandini ji said

I will, Dadi. Don’t worry. Aarvi said

Once the room was quiet again, Aarvi took a deep breath. She turned to Daksh, who had been lingering near the door, his eyes quietly observing everything. There was a sharpness in Aarvi’s gaze now—something determined, something dangerous.

Daksh, I need you to do something for me. Aarvi said

What is it? Daksh asked being curious

I want Siya in jail. She’s the reason Darshil is lying here like this. She betrayed us, and I want her to pay for it. Aarvi said

Daksh was surprised for a moment.

I hope you remember she is your sister. Are you sure? Daksh said

She was my sister, until she didn't hurt Darshil. And maybe I am saving her by giving her less punishment. You know Darshil, he won't spare anyone who would try to put my life in danger. Aarvi said

Daksh nods. He crossed his arms, his face showing a hint of reluctance.

We don’t have any solid proof against her, Aarvi. Without evidence, we can’t just— Daksh said but Aarvi interrupts him.

You belong to the underworld, Daksh. Don’t tell me you don’t know how to create proof when needed. Make sure Siya gets what she deserves. Aarvi said, her voice sharp

There was a moment of silence as Daksh smirked, realizing the depth of Aarvi’s resolve. He gave a slight nod, understanding what needed to be done.

Consider it done. Daksh said with a sly grin.

Without another word, Daksh left the room, leaving Aarvi standing alone beside Darshil’s bed. She took a moment to collect herself, her gaze softening as she looked down at Darshil, who remained unconscious, his breathing steady but still weak. After some time, a driver gave Aarvi the clothes she asked Nandini ji to send and Aarvi changed her clothes.

A few hours later, Darshil stirred, his eyes fluttering open again. The room was dim, the only light coming from the soft glow of a bedside lamp. As his vision cleared, he found Aarvi sitting beside him, her hand gently brushing the hair from his forehead. Her touch was tender, and the concern in her eyes was unmistakable.

Hazel.... Darshil said

You’re awake. How are you feeling? Aarvi asked

Tired… but better. Where is everyone? Darshil said while glancing around

I sent them home to rest. It’s just us now. Aarvi said

You also need rest Hazel. Darshil said

I need to be here, you need me. Aarvi said

Darshil attempted to sit up, but Aarvi was quick to stop him, her hands gently pressing him back against the pillows.

Don’t move too much. You need to rest. Aarvi said

The nurse entered the room, carrying a tray of food for Darshil, but before she could assist, Aarvi shook her head.

The nurse nodded and left them alone again. Aarvi took the tray and sat down beside Darshil, her fingers trembling slightly as she began to feed him, one spoonful at a time.

You’re really doing this? Darshil asked

I told you, I’m not going anywhere. Aarvi said with a smile

As she continued to feed him, there was a quiet intimacy in the room. Darshil could see the love in her eyes, something different, something softer than he had ever seen before. He watched her closely, his heart swelling with gratitude and affection.

You’ve changed. Darshil said

Aarvi paused, her eyes flickering up to meet his.

You changed me. I’ve realized a lot of things… about you, about us.. Things which converted me from Aarvi to Hazel. Aarvi said

Darshil’s gaze softened, and he spoke carefully.

So you finally beleive that I love you, this isn't just obsession. Darshil said

Yes. Aarvi said and fed him another spoon.

Why didn't you beleive in my love earlier? Darshil asked

Aarvi sighed, setting the tray aside for a moment, her hands resting on her lap.

Because, your love… it was too intense and aggressive for me. You pushed me, forced me into this marriage. I didn’t understand it at first. It scared me. Aarvi said

Darshil’s expression grew serious as he listened. He reached out, taking her hand in his, careful of her bandaged palm.

I never wanted to scare you. But I didn’t know how to love any other way. I’m sorry for that. Darshil said

Aarvi’s eyes softened, her fingers curling around his.

I know you didn’t mean to. But… I didn’t understand you then. I was angry, hurt, and confused. I thought you only wanted to control me. But now… now I see the way you’ve protected me, how much you’ve sacrificed. I see how much you love me. Aarvi said

Darshil’s heart swelled, his eyes filled with emotion as he squeezed her hand.

Then teach me how to love you, what you wish for. I wanna know everything. I wanna love you the way you want to be loved. Darshil said

Aarvi’s heart melted at his words. She leaned closer, her voice soft but full of emotion.

I don't know.... Get well first and eat properly. Aarvi said and feed him another spoon.

Darshil smiles, but his smile faints when his gaze fell on her bandaged hand, and a pang of guilt shot through him. The cut looked painful, and though his own body was riddled with injuries, seeing her like this hurt him far more.

Hazel… I’m sorry. I should’ve been more careful and I tried my best to not hurt you. I didn’t mean for you to go through this. Darshil said

Aarvi shook her head, her brow furrowing as she tried to downplay her own pain.

You’re lying here with half your body injured, Darshil. Your arm’s fractured, your head is bandaged, and you're apologizing to me? For a small cut? Aarvi said

Darshil’s eyes softened, filled with emotion as he reached for her hand, holding it as gently as he could despite the bandages.

Hazel....this ‘small cut’ on your hand is hurting me more than all my injuries combined. Darshil said

Aarvi’s breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening as she stared at him. His words carried a weight that struck her deep in her heart, the raw vulnerability in his voice overwhelming her.

I’d endure a thousand times this pain if it meant keeping you from even a single scratch. Seeing you hurt, even in the smallest way… it tears me apart more than anything that’s happened to me. Darshil said

Tears welled up in Aarvi’s eyes, and she tried to blink them away, but they spilled down her cheeks anyway. She squeezed his hand, unable to find the right words, her heart aching and swelling all at once.

You don't... have to say that. Aarvi said

Darshil’s thumb gently brushed over her bandaged hand, his voice barely above a whisper but filled with sincerity.

It’s the truth, Hazel. You mean everything to me. No wound on my body could hurt as much as seeing you in pain.

Aarvi leaned closer, her heart melting at his words. She cupped his cheek with her free hand, her voice soft but firm.

Then promise me… promise me you’ll never leave me. I can't bear the thought of losing you again. Aarvi said

Darshil’s eyes locked onto hers, and he smiled softly despite the pain that still coursed through his body.

I promise, Aarvi. I’ll fight for us, no matter what. I’ll always come back to you. Darshil said and Aarvi smiled

********

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