Unravelled Love || ✔️

♡CHAPTER 41♡

l stepped into the hospital, feeling the pressure of being late for my visit with Grandpa.
I could sense he might be disappointed in me.

Hurrying towards his room, I passed a few nurses who greeted me warmly, and I returned their smiles.
By now, everyone here knows the bond between my grandpa and me.

I knocked on the door and walked in, finding him deeply absorbed in a book.
I noticed he was deliberately ignoring me, a clear sign of his displeasure at my tardiness.

I had anticipated this reaction.

Taking a seat next to his bed, I tried to engage him, but he continued to turn away. I offered a friendly smile and gently nudged his arm, but he merely pretended a fly was bothering him.

"Grandpa," I called out, gently tapping his arm to catch his attention.

When he finally glanced my way with a sidelong look, he said, "Oh, it's my granddaughter," setting his book aside as if he hadn't been engrossed in it for the last five minutes.

"Yes," I replied, holding my ears in mock contrition.
"I'm sorry for being late. I ran into my maternal cousin, Tanya Chopra."

His expression shifted to one of curiosity. "Your maternal cousin? So, you saw your uncle?" he asked abruptly, to which I shook my head.

"No, I just happened to bump into Tanya one day, and we reminisced about old times. Today, I finally visited their home and met Aunt, but Uncle wasn't around," I explained, noticing Grandpa's gaze drifting off into the distance.

"You know, I don't want you associating with your mother's family. They're not a good influence," he said, concern etched on his face.
"They bring trouble in every way," he added.

"I understand, but I promise you, Grandpa, Tanya and her mom are different," I reassured him, squeezing his hand.

Deep down, I wished I could reveal that the real threat was Alok, who had been endangering his wife and daughter.

"If you say so, dear. Just be cautious," he replied, and I nodded.

"By the way, I brought you some of your favourites today," I said, handing him the treats I had picked up.

"Wow, my favourite snacks and sweets!" he exclaimed, his face lighting up with joy.

"Of course they are," I said, returning his smile.
"It's a little celebration since you're going home after this week." He nodded, a smile spreading across his face.

"But this is more than enough for me," he said gratefully.

"I know, I got it for you and your friend," I replied, and he appreciated my thoughtfulness.

"You're always so thoughtful," he said, gently stroking my head with affection.

We spent hours lost in conversation, discussing a myriad of topics that ranged from the profound to the silly, and I even joined Grandpa for some indoor games.

It felt just like the good old days, and I had a blast.

"So, when is your husband coming back?" he inquired.

"He didn't give me any details," I replied, and he nodded thoughtfully.

"Well, if he tries to stir up trouble between you two, just let me know. I won't allow him to harm you," he asserted, and I had to stop him before he veered into any cheeky comments.

"Alright, Grandpa, take care. I should be on my way since it's getting late. Don't forget to fill Mr. Khanna in on everything," I reminded him as he beamed and nodded enthusiastically.