The Enchanted Hearts

CHAPTER-26

As we waited anxiously in the hospital, Ammi sat quietly, her lips moving in silent prayers. Sahil and Haris paced back and forth, trying to ease their restlessness. Abbu remained seated, deep in contemplation. My eyes were swollen and red from hours of tears.

Feeling overwhelmed, I stood up. Haris noticed and approached me gently. "Bhabhi, are you okay?" he asked softly. I shook my head, my voice trembling as I replied, "I need to pray Maghrib."

Understanding my need, Haris nodded silently and led me to a quiet corner where I performed ablution. Cleansed and focused, I stood for prayer, pouring out my heart in dua:

"Ya Allah, please grant Ayaan healing and strength. Protect him and bring him back to us safely. Forgive our shortcomings and grant us patience and steadfastness through this trial. Ameen."

Tears flowed freely as I continued to supplicate earnestly. After an hour, Haris joined me, offering silent support. Moments later, he whispered gently, "Bhabhi, bhai has woken up."

Relief washed over me, and I silently thanked Allah. With gratitude in my heart, I followed Haris back to Ayaan's bedside, hopeful for his recovery.

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As my eyes slowly opened, I found the doctor standing beside me, checking my vitals and asking how I felt. After a brief examination, he left the room. Moments later, the door swung open, and everyone I loved dearly entered, except Zara. I searched their faces anxiously, but my heart sank when I didn't see her among them.

Ammi approached first, her eyes filled with concern and love, and gently kissed my forehead. Her words were soothing yet laced with worry, "Ayaan, beta, how are you feeling?"

I tried to speak, my throat dry, "I'm... I'm okay, Ammi," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper.

Abbu stood beside her, his expression a mix of relief and concern. "You scared us, Ayaan," he said quietly, his voice thick with emotion.

"I'm sorry, Abbu," I murmured, tears welling up in my eyes. "Where's Zara?"

Ammi exchanged a glance with Abbu, and I could sense their hesitation. "She went to offer her prayers," Ammi finally replied, her voice soft.

My heart sank deeper. "Ammi please call her. I need to apologize to her," I said urgently, my voice trembling. "I can't live without her, Ammi. Please, tell her to forgive me."

Abbu nodded silently, his eyes conveying understanding. "We'll talk to her," he assured me, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.

Haris, sensing the gravity of the situation, hurried out of the room to find Zara. Meanwhile, I held Ammi's hand tightly, overwhelmed with guilt and fear of losing Zara's forgiveness.

"Ammi, please," I pleaded."Help me convince her. She always listens to you."

Ammi wiped away her tears, trying to comfort me. "Don't worry, beta. Zara will understand," she said softly, her voice filled with motherly assurance.

But my mind was consumed with thoughts of Zara. I couldn't shake the fear that I had pushed her away, perhaps irreparably.

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Haris came to fetch me from the waiting area. My heart raced nervously as we walked down the hospital corridor towards Ayaan's room. Tears blurred my vision, and each step felt heavier, as if I were walking towards an uncertain future.

As we reached the door, I could hear Ayaan's voice from inside, his tone laden with exhaustion and emotion. Ammi stood slightly aside as I entered, allowing me to approach Ayaan. His eyes, red and weary, met mine, and my heart sank even deeper. It was a moment filled with unspoken words and lingering pain.