An Arranged Journey To Forever

Part 6

Manik and Radhika were playing, but Manik's mind was completely consumed by Nandini. She had been deliberately ignoring him, and Manik couldn't stand it.

"Uncle, play with me!" Radhika exclaimed, her voice full of enthusiasm.

"I will, Radhika," Manik replied absentmindedly, "But what's going on with these people around? They aren't taking good care of the patient."

Nandini, from the other side of the room, responded without even looking at him, "Radhika, tell the patient that it's not necessary to have people around all the time. They need to learn to take care of themselves."

Manik, feeling a surge of frustration, shot back, "How can people not be around? Friends should never leave each other."

"That rule applies to you too, right?" Nandini replied, her voice laced with sharpness.

Manik froze, instantly realizing what had upset her. She was angry because he hadn't been taking care of himself.

"Radhika, come sleep here," Nandini said, turning her attention to the little girl.

Radhika yawned and smiled, "Yes, masi. Good night, Uncle!"

"Good night, baby," Manik said softly, managing a faint smile despite the tension between him and Nandini.

As Nandini tucked Radhika in, she turned around only to find Manik watching her intently. She stood up to leave, but before she could, he reached out and grabbed her hand, his touch gentle yet firm.

"Still playing this ignoring game?" he asked, his voice low.

Nandini, her frustration rising, replied, "You've set this careless game in your life, Manik. You're so careless with everything."

Manik's face softened as guilt washed over him. "Nandini, I didn't mean to..."

Nandini's eyes were filled with concern, and she demanded, "Where was your attention, then? What could be more important than your own life, Manik?"

His heart skipped a beat as he looked directly into her eyes. "You," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Nandini's breath caught in her throat. She had no more words.

"I was just watching you feed Radhika," Manik continued softly, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "I didn't even realize when I ate the pepper."

Nandini shook her head, both amused and exasperated. "Are you even hearing yourself, Manik?"

He smiled faintly, a small chuckle escaping him. "Yes, I am. Now, please, let's end this. I need to rest, but I can't do it peacefully with you ignoring me. And, uh... can I hug you?"

Nandini smiled softly at his request, her anger dissipating. "You can."

Manik pulled her into a tight embrace. They stayed like that for a long while, the warmth and comfort of the hug filling the empty spaces between them. But soon, Manik felt a wetness on his chest. He pulled back slightly, confused.

"Hey, why are you crying?" he asked, his voice filled with concern. "I didn't even scold you."

"I was scared," Nandini admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I don't know why, but I was terrified of losing you, Manik. I treated you badly, but my hands were shaking. Please... don't do this again."

Manik's heart clenched at her words. He gently wiped away her tears, his voice full of softness. "Now I have a reason not to ever do this again... Please, smile for me."

Nandini sniffled, a smile slowly forming on her lips. "Hmm... now sleep. We'll go home in the morning."

"Okay," Manik replied, his exhaustion taking over. He lay down, the weight of the moment settling in.