Part 5

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The next morning dawned with a sense of anticipation and unease at the Raizada mansion. The family was gathered in the living room, their thoughts and emotions still raw from the previous night's revelations. Suddenly, the doorbell rang, cutting through the tension.

Ramu Kaka quickly answered the door and led a lady doctor into the room. She was poised and professional, her demeanor calm and reassuring.

"Good morning," she greeted, her voice gentle yet authoritative. "I'm Dr. Lavanya, a psychiatrist. I was called here to check on a seven-year-old girl."

Confusion washed over the family. Akash was the first to voice his thoughts, his brows furrowed in confusion. "A psychiatrist? Who called for a psychiatrist?"

Dr. Lavanya maintained her professional composure as she waited for someone to explain. Akash's eyes narrowed, suspicion turning into anger. He turned to Payal, his voice sharp. "Payal, did you call for a psychiatrist? What were you thinking?"

Payal's eyes widened in shock and hurt. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could explain, Arnav stepped forward, his voice steady and calm. "I called Dr. Lavanya."

The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at Arnav, their surprise evident. Arvind and Sunaina exchanged a glance, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and concern.

Arnav continued, his tone measured. "After hearing everything Payal said yesterday, I realized we need to take careful steps with Muskaan. I wanted to understand what's going on with her before overwhelming her with my emotions. I thought a new friend or another perspective could help Muskaan open up."

Hearing Arnav's thoughtfulness, Arvind and Sunaina felt a surge of pride and relief. Sunaina placed a gentle hand on Arnav's shoulder, her eyes shining with approval. "Arnav, we're so happy to see you trying to bond with Muskaan. This is the first step in the right direction."

Arvind nodded in agreement, his voice warm. "Your approach is wise, Arnav. We need to do whatever it takes to help Muskaan heal."

Akash, still processing the situation, turned to Arnav with a mixture of skepticism and concern. "But why involve a psychiatrist? Can't we handle this ourselves?"

Arnav's gaze was unwavering as he responded. "I understand your concern, Akash. But this is the need of the hour. Muskaan's behavior indicates deeper issues that we may not fully understand. Dr. Lavanya can help us navigate this and provide the support Muskaan needs."

Dr. Lavanya, sensing the family's anxiety, stepped in to offer reassurance. "I understand this is a difficult time for all of you. My role is to help Muskaan express her feelings and provide her with the tools to cope with her emotions. I'll work closely with all of you to ensure she feels safe and supported."

Akash sighed, his anger dissipating as he considered Arnav's words. "If you think this is what's best for Muskaan, then let's give it a try."

Arnav nodded, grateful for his family's support.

As the family settled in the living room, Dr. Lavanya took a seat and faced the group with a calm and professional demeanor. Arnav, still feeling the weight of his decision, looked at the doctor with a mix of hope and apprehension.

"Dr. Lavanya," Arvind began, his voice gentle, "we've decided to support Arnav's decision to have you help Muskaan. But there's something important we need to discuss."

Dr. Lavanya nodded, indicating she was ready to listen.

Sunaina leaned forward, her expression earnest. "Muskaan is very sensitive, especially about her parents. We think it would be best if you didn't reveal yourself as a psychiatrist. It might make her feel uncomfortable or even scared."

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