A little thing called FIRST LOVE ft.Avneil

Chapter 17

Chapter 17:

Neil's relief was short-lived as a nurse noticed the bruises and cuts on his knuckles, remnants of his violent confrontation with Sanjay. She approached him with a firm yet gentle expression.

"Sir, you need to get those wounds on your hands treated. Come with me for dressing," she instructed, gesturing towards a nearby treatment room.

At first, Neil hesitated, his eyes glued to Avni as the doctors continued their work. But Sunheri placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "Go, Neil. She's in good hands here. You need to take care of yourself too."

Reluctantly, Neil followed the nurse, allowing her to lead him away. As they entered the treatment room, Neil's thoughts were still with Avni, but the stinging pain in his hands began to demand his attention. The nurse cleaned his wounds with a practiced efficiency, applying antiseptic before wrapping his knuckles in gauze.

"You really did a number on your hands," the nurse commented softly, her eyes flicking up to meet his. "But you did what you had to do."

Neil nodded, but he remained silent, his mind replaying the events that led to those injuries. He knew he had acted out of pure rage, driven by a need to protect Avni, but the intensity of his reaction still shocked him.

Once the nurse finished, Neil thanked her quietly and left the treatment room. As he walked back towards the emergency area, DD was waiting for him, his face a mix of concern and curiosity.

DD wasted no time, his tone serious as he confronted Neil. "Neil, what happened back there? I've known you my whole life, and I've never seen you like this. You were like a man possessed. What's going on with you?"

Neil took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. He glanced down at his bandaged hands, the reality of his feelings finally sinking in. "DD, I... I love her," Neil admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I love Avni. And when I saw her in that classroom, helpless and terrified... I just lost it. I couldn't stand the thought of her being hurt."

DD stared at Neil, the weight of his confession settling between them. "So, it's true. I could see it, but hearing you say it... Neil, this isn't something you can take lightly. Love isn't just about protecting her physically; it's about being there for her in every way."

Neil nodded, his expression resolute. "I know. And I'm ready for that. I don't care what it takes, I'll do whatever I have to, to make sure she's safe and happy."

Before DD could respond, the doctor emerged from the emergency room, drawing their attention. The doctor's expression was calm, delivering news that allowed Neil to breathe a little easier.

"Avni is stable now," the doctor informed them. "We've counteracted the drug, and she should regain her mobility in a few hours. However, she needs complete bed rest for at least two weeks to fully recover. She can be discharged once she regains consciousness.

The doctor nodded, acknowledging Neil's determination. "Good. We'll monitor her closely until she wakes up. You can stay with her if you'd like, but make sure to rest as well. She'll need your strength."

Neil glanced at DD, who gave him a supportive nod, understanding the depth of Neil's commitment. "I'm with you, Neil," DD said quietly. "Whatever you need, I'm here."

Neil felt a surge of gratitude toward his friend, but his focus remained on Avni. "Thank you, DD. But right now, I just need to be with her."

As Neil re-entered Avni's room, he found her still unconscious, her face serene despite the ordeal she had endured. He pulled a chair close to her bed, sitting down and gently taking her hand in his once more. He leaned in, his voice soft as he whispered, "I'm here, Avni. And I'm not going anywhere. I'll be right here when you wake up."