You Are My Obsession Till Eternity

Chapter-57

Author's POV,

Next day,

The rhythmic hum of the jet engines lulled Pihu into a restless sleep beside Rudra. He worked on his laptop, his gaze constantly flickering between the screen and her peaceful, if fragile, form. Even the slightest stir from her had him reaching out, murmuring soft reassurances that coaxed her back to sleep.

The doctor's words echoed in his mind – the medication they prescribed was a necessary evil. While it helped Pihu sleep and avoid panic attacks, long-term use could have negative consequences. He knew she hated the bitter taste, a new addition to the list of medications she already took for her back injury. The doctor's stern warning about violence as a trigger echoed in his mind. He wouldn't let anything, not even a whisper of the past, threaten her fragile peace.

Rudra had taken these warnings to heart. He'd even relocated them to a different mansion, one devoid of the dark memories the previous one held. Rebuilding the old one would take time, and he couldn't risk anything that might worsen Pihu's mental health. This new haven, he hoped, would be a sanctuary for her, a place where she could heal and feel safe.

As the jet touched down in Mumbai, a wave of relief washed over Rudra. He meticulously packed away his laptop, his eyes lingering on Pihu's sleeping form one last time. He needed to move her carefully, mindful of her injury.

The moment he lifted her, however, Pihu stirred, her eyes fluttering open in a mix of confusion and apprehension. Her conscious mind screamed "danger," replaying his outburst at the hospital. Yet, a deeper, subconscious trust held her still. Rudra had become a strange anchor, a paradox of fear and a twisted sense of security.

He held her gaze for a fleeting moment, his expression unreadable. Then, gently cradling her in his arms, he carried her towards the plane door. The hum of activity outside grew louder as the door opened, revealing the bustle of the Mumbai airport.

A sliver of sunlight peeked through the doorway, and as Pihu's eyes adjusted, a wave of unexpected emotion washed over her. The sight of the familiar signage, the melodic announcements in Hindi, the cacophony of greetings and goodbyes – it all hit her at once. A hesitant smile played on her lips, a flicker of warmth battling the lingering fear in her eyes.

Rudra carefully placed her in the back seat of the waiting car, securing her with a gentleness that belied his usual stern demeanor. He slid beside her, his presence a constant, reassuring force.

As they started moving through the streets of Mumbai, Pihu felt an urge to go outside and venture into the city. But she felt a pang of helplessness, the inability to walk a constant reminder of her ordeal. However, she told herself it was just temporary and tried to enjoy the view.

Seeing her gaze wander wistfully out the window, Rudra decided to give her a surprise. He instructed the driver to take a detour to a restaurant with a panoramic view of Mumbai and the beach.

As they arrived, Pihu's eyes widened at the breathtaking sight of the cityscape and the shimmering ocean beyond. Rudra led her to a table by the window, the view a stunning backdrop to their meal.

"Pihu," Rudra said softly as they sat, "I thought you might enjoy this. It's a beautiful place, just like you."

Pihu managed a small smile, her eyes reflecting a glimmer of appreciation. "This is lovely. I've never seen the city from this height."

They enjoyed their meal, the beauty of the surroundings and the delicious food lifting Pihu's spirits slightly. For a moment, the horrors of the past seemed to fade into the background, replaced by the serenity of the present.

After a while, they continued their journey, but as they changed routes, Pihu got confused as it was not the way to the mansion. So she asked Rudra, "Where are we going?"