"5. From fear to trust"

"Jin aakhon me kabhi masoomiyat dekhi thi

Unn aakhon me aaj Dard dekha hai Maine

Zinda reh kar, darti par hi aaj

Narkh dekha hai Maine"

-fictionflare_

Rudraksh and Rishwik exchanged puzzled glances, their expressions were reflecting their confusion. They turned to Amandeep for an explanation.

Rudraksh: "He was a random man who tried to... I mean phir vo yellow se kaise connected hua??"

(He was a random man who tried to... I mean, how did he get connected to Yellow?)

Rishwik: "Exactly vo Buddha uski toh main.."

(Exactly! That old man, I'll...)

Amandeep: "He's the same man Ruhanika ma'am was supposed to marry."

Rudraksh and Rishwik's eyes widened in shock, their expressions frozen as they tried to process what Amandeep had just said.

Rishwik: "What the hell, vo 55 saal ka khusat Buddha, vo bhabhi se shadi karne wala tha???"

(What the hell? That 55-year-old geezer was going to marry Bhabhi?)

Rudraksh: "Arora, are you sure?? Kya bol rahe ho pata hai na??"

(Arora, are you sure? Do you realize what you're saying?)

Amandeep: "Sir, aap hi ne kaha tha ki jo bhi Vijaypratap ki beti se shadi kar raha hai use shadi Tak kidnap karke rakhna hai and shadi ke baad use chod dein."

(Sir, you were the one who said that whoever is marrying Vijaypratap's daughter should be kidnapped until the wedding, and released after it.)

Rudraksh: "Vo insaan ye aadmi tha??"

(Was that man this person?)

Amandeep: "Ji sir, Jayvardhan Rane naam hai uska, main bhi hairaan tha ye dekh ke ki Vijaypratap apni beti ki shadi ek buddhe se Kara Raha hai. Mujhe tabhi Shak hua tha ki kuch gadbad hai maine aapko batana bhi chaha par aapne suna hi nahi."

(Yes, sir. His name is Jayvardhan Rane. I was shocked to see that Vijaypratap was marrying his daughter off to an old man. I had my suspicions that something was wrong, and I tried to tell you, but you didn't listen.)

Rudraksh lunged forward, grabbing Amandeep by the collar with a firm grip. His face was etched with fury.

Rudraksh: "you idiot, batana chahte toh bata sakte na kaise bhi. Itni badi baat hai ye aur tum.."

(You idiot! If you wanted to tell me, you could have found a way. This is a big deal, and you...)

Rishwik quickly intervened, stepping between Rudraksh and Amandeep. He gently but firmly pulled Rudraksh's hands away, freeing Amandeep from his grip.

Rishwik: "Sahi Kiya usne bhai"

(He did the right thing, bro.)

Rudraksh: "Kya sahi kiya Rishwik, agar mujhe pata hota ye toh shayad main Ruhanika se shadi nahi karta shayad mujhe pata hota ki ye vo ladki nahi hai."

(What do you mean he did the right thing, Rishwik? If I had known this, maybe I wouldn’t have married Ruhanika. Maybe I would have realized she wasn’t the girl I thought she was.)

Rishwik: "Exactly bhai, isiliye Aman ne sahi Kiya."

(Exactly, bro. That's why Aman did the right thing.)

Rudraksh: "Kya matlab??"

(What do you mean?)

Rishwik: "Matlab agar Aman ne aapko bata diya hota aur aapko pata hota ki bhabhi vo ladki nahi hai toh aap unse shadi nahi karte aur Vijaypratap unki shadi us buddhe se Kara deta aur phir ghatiya insaan unke sath..."

(I mean, if Aman had told you, and you knew that Bhabhi wasn't the girl you thought, you wouldn't have married her. Then Vijaypratap would have married her off to that old man, and that horrible person would have...)

Rudraksh: "Noooooo"

Before Rishwik could finish his sentence, Rudraksh cut him off with a shout, his voice echoing with raw anger and desperation. The idea of something so horrific happening to Ruhanika was too much for him to bear. His face was flushed with rage and fear, his fists clenched tightly as he struggled to process the gravity of the situation. The thought of Ruhanika enduring such pain and trauma was unbearable, and it drove him to a point where he couldn't remain calm or composed.

Rishwik: "Haa bhai, isiliye jo hua achcha hua."

(Yes, bro, that's why things turned out for the best.)

Rudraksh: "Par Vijaypratap aisa kar kyu Raha tha, yellow hai kon??"

(But why was Vijaypratap doing this? Who is Yellow?)

Amandeep: "Come with me, sir."

Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Amandeep descended the stairs and entered the living room, where the maid from Rathore mansion was waiting anxiously. As they approached, she rose from her seat and hurried towards Rudraksh. Her face was etched with concern, and her eyes were filled with apprehension.

Lady: "Ruhi beti kaisi hai?? Kya hua unhe??"

(How is Ruhi, dear? What happened to her?)

Rishwik: "Bhabhi ko kuch nahi hoga, doctor's check kar rahe hai unhe."

(Nothing will happen to Bhabhi. The doctors are checking on her.)

The lady sighed in relief. Her tense expression softened slightly, though worry still lingered in her eyes.

Rudraksh: "Mujhe sab Janna hai, kya hua tha Ruhanika ke sath, aur ye 18 saal se kaid ka kya chakkar hai sab kuch."

(I want to know everything. What happened to Ruhanika, and what's this 18 years of captivity all about?)

The lady looked at Rudraksh with a mix of apprehension and relief, then took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves.

Lady: "Mera naam Shanta hai, main rathore mansion me kaam karti hu. Pehle vaha sirf Vijaypratap sahab aur unki patni Sukriti memsaab rehti thi unke bachcho ke sath. Phir ek din Vijaypratap sahab apni maa aur 5 saal ki Ruhi ko vaha le aaye. Vajah toh main nahi janti par us din jab Ruhi bitiya ne us ghar ke andar kadam rakha uske baad unhone kabhi bahar ki duniya nahi dekhi bas un Ghar ki 4 deewari me kaid hai."

(My name is Shanta. I work at the Rathore mansion. Initially, only Vijaypratap and his wife, Sukriti ma'am, lived there with their children. Then one day, Vijaypratap brought his mother and 5-year-old Ruhi to the house. I don't know the reason, but from the day Ruhi set foot in that house, she never saw the outside world again; she has been trapped within those four walls.)

Rudraksh: "5 saal ki bachchi se kya dushmani ho sakti hai kisi ko?? Aur yellow ke maa baap kaha hai, unhone kuch nahi kiya?"

(What kind of enmity could someone have with a 5-year-old child? And where are Yellow's parents? Didn't they do anything?)

Shanta: "Ruhi bitiya, Vijaypratap sahab ki behen ki beti hai. Mujhe nahi pata un dono ke bich kya dushmani thi, par Ruhi bitiya ke maa baap ab is duniya me nahi hai. Unki Nani Rajlakshmi Rathore ne badi mushkil se Ruhi ko pala hai. Mujhe nahi pata kya karan hai par Vijaypratap sahab ko unhone hi manaya tha Ruhi bitiya ki padhai ke liye. Par vo sirf Ghar me padhai ke liye maane. Isi tarah Ruhi ki padhai ghar me hi huyi, par 3 saal pehle unki Nani ka dihaanth ho gaya aur vo aakhri din tha jab Ruhi ne kuch kaha ho. Us din ke baad unhe padhne nahi diya gaya, aur Ruhi bitiya ne bhi kuch nahi kaha, 3 saal ho gaye hai unki awaaz sune. Par vo bechari bachchi 18 saal se un zaalimo ke zulm seh rahi hai. Kya kya zulm kiye hai un dono pati patni ne Meri bachchi pe main bata nahi sakti. Kuch toh Jo kisi ko pata tak nahi hai."

(Ruhi is Vijaypratap's sister's daughter. I don't know what the enmity was between them, but Ruhi's parents are no longer in this world. Her grandmother, Rajlakshmi Rathore, raised her with great difficulty. I don't know the reason, but it was she who convinced Vijaypratap to educate Ruhi. But he only agreed to her education at home. That's how Ruhi's education happened at home, but three years ago, her grandmother passed away, and that was the last day Ruhi spoke. Since that day, she hasn't been allowed to study, and Ruhi hasn't said anything either. It's been three years since anyone heard her voice. But that poor girl has been enduring the torment of those two, husband and wife, for 18 years. They've committed atrocities on her that I can't even begin to describe. Some things, no one even knows about.)

As Shanta recounted Ruhanika's past to Rudraksh, her eyes were already filled with tears. Rudraksh's knuckles had turned white from the tight fist he had made in his fury. This time, the anger was not solely Rudraksh's—Rishwik’s eyes were also red, reflecting his own intense emotions. Rishwik, who had previously learned that Ruhanika had been held captive throughout her life during his investigation at the Rathore mansion, now faced the harsh reality of her suffering. The details Shanta revealed only fueled his rage further. The revelations about Ruhanika's life, intertwined with the anger of seeing her so mistreated, added layers to his growing frustration. The gravity of her past, combined with the realization of her enduring pain, struck a deep chord within him, amplifying his anger and sorrow.

Shanta: "Phir ek din unki shadi ki baat huyi, kisi bhi tarah vo Ruhi ki shadi unke 22 saal ka hone se pehle karna chahte the, agle mahine vo 22 ki ho jayengi. Memsaab ne Ruhi bitiya se kaha ki ladka unki Nani ne chuna hai. Par phir aap aa gaye, aur jis Vishwas ke sath Ruhi bitiya ne aapko dekha tha us din, mujhe yakeen ho gaya ki vo aapke sath surakshit hai par phir aaj..."

(Then one day, her marriage was discussed. Somehow, they wanted to marry Ruhi off before she turned 22; she'll be 22 next month. Ma'am told Ruhi that the groom was chosen by her grandmother. But then you arrived, and with the faith with which Ruhi looked at you that day, I was convinced she was safe with you. But then today...)

Rudraksh shut his eyes, overwhelmed by guilt. He was about to ask something, but a loud crashing sound, like breaking glass, came from his room. The sudden noise made everyone turn their attention toward the room. Without a moment's hesitation, Rudraksh sprinted toward his room, his heart pounding with concern. Rishwik, Amandeep, and Shanta quickly followed. Bursting through the door without knocking, Rudraksh's eyes widened in shock at the scene before him. The rest of the group arrived just in time to witness the unsettling sight, their faces reflecting the same stunned disbelief.

Ruhanika: "du..dur hat..iye, uuhhhuu, p..pass n..ahi aana."

(St...stay away, uhh... don't come closer.)

Rudraksh: "Yellow.??"

Rudraksh and the others were met with a jarring scene: Ruhanika stood at the far side of the bed, clutching a knife tightly in her hand. The doctor and nurses, positioned on the other side of the bed, looked alarmed and uncertain. The fruit bowl from which Ruhanika had taken the knife lay shattered on the floor, its contents scattered around. The broken pieces of the bowl glinted ominously in the dim light, adding to the tension of the moment.

Doctor: "Ma'am, please, you're hurting yourself. Please come here."

Ruhanika: "N..uuhhuu, na..ahi, d...uur."

(N...uhh...no, stay...away.)

Rudraksh rushed inside the room, his eyes locked on Ruhanika with a deep, aching concern. She stood trembling on the far side of the bed, her figure shaking uncontrollably. Her face was pale, and her eyes were wide with a mix of fear and desperation. The knife she clutched was dangerously close to her wrist, its sharp edge glinting ominously under the room’s lights. Her voice, though strained and hoarse, was filled with a frantic plea as she tried to ward off the doctors and nurses who were cautiously trying to approach her. Each cough she emitted was ragged, causing her to wince in pain and furthering the tension in the room. The doctors and nurses, their expressions a mixture of alarm and concern, were hesitant, unsure of how to approach her without provoking further distress. Their attempts to reassure her only seemed to heighten her anxiety. Rudraksh's heart raced as he took in the sight. He could see the fear etched deeply in Ruhanika’s features, her breath coming in shallow, uneven gasps. He knew he needed to act quickly to de-escalate the situation and ensure her safety, but his own emotions were a turbulent mix of guilt, fear, and helplessness.

Ruhanika: "Hu..m, khud ka uhhhuu ha...ath kaat d..e..nge."

(I...will cut m...my own ha...nd.)

The doctors looked at each other, their faces reflecting their confusion and concern. They turned to Rudraksh, seeking guidance on how to handle the rapidly escalating situation. Rudraksh, equally bewildered by Ruhanika's behavior, felt a deep pang of distress. With careful steps, Rudraksh approached Ruhanika, his eyes locked onto hers with a mix of worry and determination. Ruhanika, though still trembling, allowed him to come closer. Her tears flowed freely, and her sobs were intermittent and choked.

As Rudraksh reached her side, he saw the fear in her eyes and acted swiftly. With a gentle but firm grip, he took the knife from her trembling hand and tossed it aside. The knife clattered to the floor, its threat neutralized. Rudraksh then wrapped his arms around Ruhanika, holding her shoulders with a comforting strength. He drew her close, his own heart aching as he felt her shivering form against him. Her cries softened slightly as she felt his presence, but the tremors of her fear were still evident.

Rudraksh: "Dimaag kharab ho gaya hai kya tumhara, kya kar rahi thi ye?? Pagal ladki hath cut jaata toh."

(Have you lost your mind? What were you doing? If you had cut your hand...)

Ruhanika's sobs grew more intense as she threw herself into Rudraksh’s arms, her fear and pain breaking through. Rudraksh was initially taken aback by the force of her reaction, but as her tears soaked into his shirt, he felt a surge of compassion and protectiveness.  Rudraksh enveloped her in a tight embrace. He gently placed his hands on her back, rubbing her in soothing, circular motions. His heart ached with empathy as he felt her trembling body against his.

Ruhanika: "Vo ... Vo hum..are pa..ass aa rahe hai... Uhhuuu du...r kariye... Pl..ase. uhhuuu"

(They...they were...coming close to me... Uhh, please keep them...away.)

Ruhanika's body shook with harsh, erratic coughs as she clung to Rudraksh, her tears flowing relentlessly. Her grip on him was desperate, almost as if she was trying to merge into him to escape her torment. Her eyes were tightly shut, her breathing ragged and uneven, adding to the intensity of her distress. Rudraksh felt a sharp pang in his chest at the sight of her suffering. The pain in his heart was palpable, a reflection of the deep empathy he felt for her. He could feel the tremors of her body through his own, each cough and sob tearing at him with an almost physical force. He tightened his hold around her, trying to offer her the steadiness and support she so desperately needed.

Rudraksh: "Shhh betu, kuch nahi hoga, koi kuch nahi karega."

(Shhh, my dear, nothing will happen. No one will do anything to you.)

Ruhanika looked up at Rudraksh, her eyes heavy with dizziness yet they sought his reassurance. Her gaze was unfocused, but there was a flicker of trust and desperation in her eyes as she clung to him. Her tears continued to flow, mingling with the visible distress on her face.

Ruhanika: "nahi... Vo.. vo hume uhhu chu r..rahi thi. Vo hu...m vo.. aap chahe t...oh uhhu hume ka...kamre me b..and karde, hume aa...adat hai. Par... Inhe d..dur kijiye."

(No...they...they were touching...me. I...if you want...you can lock me...in a room. I...am used to it. But...please keep them...away.)

Rudraksh cupped Ruhanika’s face gently in his palms, his thumb brushing away her tears. Without fully understanding why, he leaned in and kissed her forehead softly. The gesture, though instinctive and unplanned, seemed to offer her a moment of calm amidst the chaos. Ruhanika's trembling eased slightly, and a semblance of relaxation washed over her, comforted by the unexpected warmth of his affection.

Rudraksh: "Koi nahi chuyega tumhe. Shant ho ja betu."

(No one will touch you. Calm down, my dear.)

Ruhanika began to relax, her body responding to the comfort Rudraksh provided. She rested her head against his chest, her eyes heavy with dizziness and fatigue. Rudraksh wrapped her gently in his arms, holding her close. The embrace was protective and soothing, offering her a refuge from the turmoil she had been experiencing.

Doctor: "Sir, she didn't let us dress her wounds properly; she just panicked. Please make her sit so that we can treat her."

Rudraksh looked down at Ruhanika, noticing that she had fallen unconscious in his embrace. With careful tenderness, he lifted her and gently placed her on the bed. He stroked her hair softly, his concern evident in his touch. As he prepared to withdraw, he felt her hand clutching his own, even in her unconscious state.  Her grip, though weak, was a poignant reminder of her need for him.

Doctor: "It's okay, sir, you can wait, but let us treat her injuries quickly."

Rudraksh nodded and took a seat beside Ruhanika, his hand still holding hers and gently caressing her head. The room was filled with a tense quiet as Rishwik, Amandeep, and Shanta exited, leaving Rudraksh alone with Ruhanika and the medical staff. The doctor approached with a cotton swab and began carefully moving the sleeve of Ruhanika's shirt down to access the wound on her shoulder. Rudraksh, instinctively turned his gaze away from her exposed skin, his face a mask of worry and discomfort. As the doctor cleaned and dressed the wound, the nurses focused on Ruhanika's feet and hands, meticulously treating the bruises and applying a soothing cream. Rudraksh's anxiety was palpable; he watched every movement with a furrowed brow and clenched fists, his mind racing with thoughts of how to alleviate her pain. Soon, the doctor prepared an injection for Ruhanika's high fever. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Rudraksh's eyes widened in alarm as he watched the needle being prepared. It was a stark contrast to his usual demeanor—a man known for his fierce combat skills and unyielding strength was visibly unsettled by the sight of a mere injection. He glanced from the injection to Ruhanika, his fear and concern etched clearly on his face. The juxtaposition of his usual bravado with his current anxiety highlighted the depth of his care for her. The injection seemed like a symbol of his helplessness in the face of her suffering.

Rudraksh: "Is it necessary to give an injection?"

The doctor noticed Rudraksh's anxious expression and the way he closely monitored every action, his protective nature evident. The doctor's lips curled into a knowing smile, touched by Rudraksh's deep concern and care for Ruhanika. It was a rare sight to see such a formidable figure so unsettled by something as routine as an injection.

Doctor: "Yes, sir. The fever is very high, and she can't take oral medication right now."

Rudraksh remained steadfast by Ruhanika's side, his hand clasped around hers. As the doctor rolled up her sleeve and prepared the injection, Rudraksh’s grip on her hand tightened. He shut his eyes tightly, as if trying to share in her pain, his face a mask of intense concern. Once the doctor and her team completed the treatment, the room was filled with a quieter, more subdued atmosphere. Ruhanika remained unconscious, but Rudraksh's presence was a steadying force by her side, his worry evident in every tense line of his face.

Doctor: "Sir, please step outside. I need to discuss some important things with you."

Rudraksh gazed at Ruhanika, his heart heavy as he took in her unconscious state and pale face.

Doctor: "Don't worry, the nurses will take care of her."

Rudraksh nodded and carefully stood up, attempting to gently retract his hand from Ruhanika’s firm grip. Despite her unconscious state, she clung to him with a surprising strength. With great care, he finally managed to free his hand and placed it gently on her stomach, ensuring she was well covered and secure under the duvet. After tucking her in securely, Rudraksh turned toward the doctor, his expression a blend of concern and determination. He then moved towards the doctor, who was already turning to address the nurses.

Doctor: "Take care of her and don't touch her."

The nurses nodded in understanding as the doctor and Rudraksh exited the room.  The doctor and Rudraksh descended the stairs together, their footsteps echoing through the quiet house. As they reached the living room, they found Rishwik, Amandeep, and Shanta waiting anxiously on the couch. The atmosphere was thick with concern and tension. The group settled into their seats, each person grappling with their own thoughts about Ruhanika's condition. The doctor took a seat, and Rudraksh, still visibly shaken, took a seat beside Rishwik, his eyes reflecting the turmoil he was feeling.

Rudraksh: "Yes, doctor. What did you want to talk about?"

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, first of all, your wife is really weak. By weak, I mean internally. I would suggest a full body check-up for her."

Rudraksh’s gaze turned towards Amandeep.

Amandeep: "Everything will be arranged in our medical room by morning."

Doctor: "Also, I'm sorry, but I have to ask—has she been molested?"

Rudraksh’s eyes closed tightly, a reflexive gesture that spoke volumes of his inner turmoil and guilt. The weight of his actions and the consequences of the night’s events seemed to press down on him, evident in his tense posture and clenched jaw. The doctor, observing Rudraksh's reaction, understood everything. The doctor's understanding gaze acknowledged Rudraksh's inner turmoil without needing words, recognizing the emotional burden he carried.

Doctor: "ok so may be yahi vajah se unhone kisi ko apne pass aane nahi diya aur darr gayi."

(Okay, maybe that’s why she didn’t let anyone come near her and got scared.)

That's when Shanta interjected into the conversation.

Shanta: "Aisa nahi hai, Ruhi bitiya kabhi kisi ko apne pass nhi aane deti, kisi ko khud ko hath Tak lagane nahi deti, ye Darr aaj se nahi balki Kai saalon se hai."

(It’s not like that. Ruhi has never let anyone come close to her; she doesn't even let anyone touch her. This fear isn't new; it’s been there for many years.)

Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Amandeep exchanged puzzled glances as they sat together, their expressions reflecting a mix of confusion and concern. The gravity of the situation was evident, but the exact nature of Ruhanika’s condition and what had led to this moment remained unclear to them. Meanwhile, the doctor focused intently on analyzing Ruhanika’s condition.

Doctor: "That means she’s suffering from haphephobia."

Rudraksh: "What’s that?"

Doctor: "It’s a fear—fear of being touched, or more specifically, fear of inappropriate touch, especially from males. And there must be a reason behind it."

Rudraksh’s eyes snapped toward Shanta with a sudden intensity. The urgency in his expression indicated he needed answers

Rudraksh: "Kya hua tha uske sath? Kab se hai aisa??"

(What happened to her? How long has this been going on?)

Shanta: "kuch 6-7 saal ho gaye honge, Vajah toh nahi pata. Par Sachet baba ghar aaye the ek din aur usi raat bahaut se doctor ko ghar bulaya tha gaya Ruhanika bitiya ke kamre me aur phir uske baad se vo humesha sabse dur rehne lagi."

(It’s been about 6-7 years. I don’t know the reason. But Sachet Baba came to the house one day, and that same night, a lot of doctors were called to Ruhanika's room. After that, she began distancing herself from everyone.)

Hearing Sachet’s name, Rudraksh's eyes flared with renewed intensity, his rage evident in the tightening of his jaw and the fury in his gaze. The mention of Sachet seemed to amplify his hatred, fueling his already seething anger. However, Rishwik's question brought him back to the immediate concern. Rishwik's voice cut through the tension, directing everyone’s focus back to the doctor. The question was urgent and necessary, forcing Rudraksh to shift his attention away from his vengeful thoughts and concentrate on Ruhanika’s condition.

Rishwik: "But if that's the case toh bhabhi ko bhai se koi problem kyu nahi, bhabhi ne khud bhai ko pass aane Diya, agar unhe Darr hai toh phir Aisa kyu??"

(But if that’s the case, why doesn't she have a problem with bhai (brother)? Bhabhi (sister-in-law) let him come close. If she’s scared, then why is it different with him?)

Doctor: "There's only reason and that is trust. Lagta hai vo sirf aap par bharosa karti hai Mr. Malhotra, she must be feeling safe with you."

(There’s only one reason, and that is trust. It seems she trusts only you, Mr. Malhotra. She must be feeling safe with you.)

Amandeep: "Safe? And with Sir?? How is that possible?"

Rudraksh's gaze was icy and filled with a fierce intensity as he directed a deadly glare at Amandeep. The look was so penetrating that it silenced Amandeep instantly. He dropped his eyes, unable to hold the piercing stare, and lowered his head.

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, her state is very delicate right now, and whatever happened will definitely leave a scar on her soul. And since she trusts only you, make sure not to leave her alone. Stay with her, especially at night. Nightmares after such incidents are common and can lead to depression, and she might try to harm herself. So, you need to be careful and extra attentive."

Rudraksh nodded solemnly as the doctor provided guidance. The doctor detailed the necessary precautions for Ruhanika's care, including the medicines she would need. He emphasized the importance of consulting an ENT specialist to address her throat issues and a counselor to support her mental health. Despite the seriousness of her condition, the doctor highlighted that above all, Ruhanika needed love and emotional support to aid in her recovery.

Shanta: "Sahab, subah hone wali hai. Mujhe chalna chahiye aap Ruhi bitiya ka khayal rakhiyega."

(Sir, it’s almost morning. I should go now. Please take care of Ruhi.)

Rishwik: "Areh, aap yahi rukiye na. Bhabhi ko zarurat hogi aapki."

(Oh, please stay here. Bhabhi might need you.)

Shanta: "Sahab main aur meri beti dono hi Rathore mansion me kaam karte hai, mujhe jaana hoga uske pass."

(Sir, both my daughter and I work at the Rathore mansion. I need to go to her.)

Rishwik: "Aap fikr mat kijiye, aap humare yaha naukri kar lijiye, hum dungi salary denge aapko, kyu bhai?"

(Don’t worry about it. You can work with us; we’ll pay you a good salary. Right, bhai?)

Rudraksh nodded.

Shanta: "Par sahab, main nahi chahti us ghar ki parchai tak Ruhi bitiya pe pade kisi bhi tarah. Aap unhe un jallad logo se dur rakhiyega aur unka khayal rakhiye. Meri zarurat ho toh bula lijiye."

(But sir, I don’t want even a shadow of that house to fall on Ruhi. Keep her away from those cruel people and take good care of her. If you need me, call me.)

Shanta, having made her points and offered her reassurances, left the house. A nurse soon called Rudraksh and Rishwik, prompting them to follow her upstairs. They made their way to Rudraksh’s room.

Nurse: "Doctor, ma'am ko hosh aa raha hai."

(Doctor, ma'am is regaining consciousness.)

Rudraksh, Rishwik, Amandeep, and the doctor rushed into the room. They found Ruhanika stirring and her eyes fluttering open. The doctor approached her with a calm and professional demeanor, intending to check her temperature by touching her forehead and neck. As the doctor reached out, Ruhanika's eyes widened in panic. In a sudden, jerky movement, she flinched away, her hand swatting the doctor's hand away. She sat upright in bed, her breathing rapid and uneven, clearly disoriented and frightened by the unexpected presence and touch.

Ruhanika: "Ahhhh"

As Ruhanika sat upright, she winced from the pain in her shoulder from the sudden movement and instinctively cradled it. Her eyes darted around the room, taking in the scene: the doctor seated beside her, the four nurses standing across the bed, and Rudraksh, Amandeep, and Rishwik standing at a distance. Overwhelmed with fear, Ruhanika huddled closer to herself, hugging her knees tightly. The presence of the doctor and nurses only heightened her anxiety. However, when her gaze met Rudraksh’s, a flicker of relief replaced her fear, though she quickly lowered her eyes, unable to meet his gaze directly but the sense of security she felt from seeing him was palpable. Observing her reaction, the doctor stood up from the bed and signaled the nurses to give them space.

Doctor: "Mr. Malhotra, can you please check her temperature?"

Rudraksh hesitated for a moment, but then nodded resolutely. With careful steps, he approached Ruhanika and sat down beside her on the bed, his presence a comforting anchor in the midst of her confusion and fear.

Rudraksh: "Ruhanika meri taraf dekho"

(Ruhanika, look at me.)

Ruhanika kept her eyes tightly shut, her body tense as if bracing for something. She didn't glance at Rudraksh, focusing instead on keeping her emotions in check. Rudraksh, too, closed his eyes, trying to steady his emotions. He was angry with himself, feeling the weight of his actions and their impact on her. Despite his internal turmoil, he knew he had to be patient and understanding. He took a deep breath, silently resolving to be there for her, even if she couldn't yet face him.

Rudraksh: "Yellow, betu meri taraf dekho, main nahi datunga, pakka."

(Yellow, look at me, sweetie. I won’t scold you, I promise.)

As Ruhanika slowly lifted her eyelids and glanced at Rudraksh, his heart ached with a deep sense of remorse. Seeing her in such a fragile state, her vulnerability evident in her tired eyes, made him feel a profound guilt. Every trace of pain and fear in her gaze seemed to reflect back at him, amplifying his self-blame. He blamed himself intensely, his heart aching as he took in her fragile state.

Rudraksh: "Dekho, tumhe fever tha toh doctor ko tumhe check karna hai, karne dogi??"

(Look, you have a fever, so the doctor needs to check you. Will you let him?)

Ruhanika's eyes darted between the doctor and Rudraksh, fear evident in her expression. She gave a slight shake of her head, then lowered her gaze, trying to retreat further into herself. Her body language spoke volumes—she was overwhelmed and terrified, struggling to process the presence of the doctor and the others around her. The act of turning away and shielding her face highlighted her distress and desire to retreat from the situation.

Rudraksh: "Achcha koi baat nahi betu, main.. main check kar sakta hu?? Dur se hi pakka."

(Okay, it’s fine, sweetie. Can I... can I check? From a distance, I promise.)

Ruhanika's gaze met Rudraksh's once more, and this time, there was a shift. The fear that had previously clouded her eyes was replaced by a quiet resolve. She gave a small, hesitant nod, signaling her acceptance or perhaps a sign of trust.

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Precap: Rudraksh is confused about his and Ruhanika's relationship.

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