Chapter 4

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Chapter 4: Struggle No One Knows 

Avni burst into the room, her eyes wide with panic as she called out, "Ma, where are you?"

Neela appeared from the kitchen, a look of concern spreading across her face. "What happened? Why are you shouting?" she asked.

"Ma, Pari is in ICU. I have to go," Avni blurted out, her voice trembling with urgency.

Neela's face paled. "What?" she gasped.

"We need to go to Ali's house. I know, but I'm sorry mom and Riya. I'm really sorry," Avni said, her words tumbling out in a rush as she glanced apologetically at Riya.

"It's okay," Riya said softly, stepping forward to wrap Avni in a comforting hug. Avni's body shook with fear, and she clung to Riya for a moment, taking strength from the embrace.

"But what will you guys tell Ali Jiju's family?" Avni asked, her voice small and worried.

Neela stepped closer, her hand resting reassuringly on Avni's shoulder. "Last time his brother was also not there, but we understood as a family. Now they will also understand because we are also family," she said firmly, her eyes meeting Avni's with a steady resolve.

"Okay, Mom. I will leave now," Avni said, taking a deep breath as she tried to steady herself.

Avni hurried out of the house, her mind racing with thoughts of Pari and the hospital. Today was supposed to be a special day. Both families had planned a dinner together because Kareena and Bebe had just returned to India. It was meant to be a perfect opportunity to bring everyone together, to meet and celebrate as a whole family.

As Avni rushed to the hospital, she couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for leaving her family gathering. But she knew in her heart that Pari needed her now more than ever. Family, after all, was about being there for each other in times of need, and she hoped everyone would understand that.

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In the Khanna mansion, the morning sunlight streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the elegant furniture. Kareena descended the stairs, feeling refreshed after her nap. As she entered the hall, she greeted everyone cheerfully, "Good morning, everyone."


Swetha, her mother, looked up from her newspaper and smiled warmly. "Good morning, my beautiful daughter," she replied. The rest of the family echoed the greeting.


Kareena made her way to Swetha and, in a childlike gesture, put her head on her mother's lap as she sat on the floor. Swetha began to gently massage her head, a comforting routine from Kareena's childhood.


Prakash, Kareena's father, looked up from his work and asked, "What's your next plan, beta?"


Neil, Kareena's brother, joined in with interest. "I'm also curious."


Kareena hesitated for a moment, her eyes scanning the room before she spoke. "I have an idea, but you guys won't agree to it."


Prakash raised an eyebrow. "Why wouldn't we?"


Kareena shrugged. "I don't know."


Neil leaned forward, encouraging her to continue. "First, we will listen to your plan at least."

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