Prettiest replacement

TWENTY EIGHT

2200+ words

Tum mere jeene ki wajah ho, meri har dua mein ho,

Tere saath zindagi guzarne ka khwab, meri har khushi ka asar ho.

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow in the dining room. The air was still heavy with the afterglow of the previous night's celebrations. The family gathered around the breakfast table, sharing light conversation and laughter. However, Tara, usually the center of warmth and energy, sat quietly, her face pale and her eyes tired.

Suddenly, Tara stood up abruptly, covering her mouth as she hurried to the nearest bathroom. The sound of her retching echoed down the hall, leaving everyone at the table stunned and concerned.

Aaditya: (Alarmed, standing up) "Tara! Are you okay?"

He rushed after her, worry etched across his face. Viyaan, Meera, and the rest of the family exchanged worried glances, unsure of what was happening.

A few moments later, Tara emerged from the bathroom, wiping her mouth with a tissue. She looked visibly drained, her complexion even paler than before. Aaditya was at her side in an instant, his eyes filled with concern.

Aaditya: (Panicked) "Tara, what's wrong? You've been sick all morning. We need to get you to the hospital."

Tara: (Trying to smile, though clearly exhausted) "I'm fine, Aaditya. It's probably just something I ate last night. Don't worry."

Meera: (Softly) "Tara bhabhi, you don't look well at all. Please, let's go to the hospital and get you checked out."

Tara glanced at everyone around the table, seeing the worry on their faces. She knew she couldn't dismiss their concerns, especially Aaditya's. His normally calm demeanor was replaced with anxiety, his mind racing with all the worst-case scenarios.

Aaditya: (Taking her hand, pleading) "Tara, please. We can't take any chances. I'll cancel my meetings and take you to the hospital."

Tara gently squeezed his hand, trying to reassure him despite her own discomfort.

Tara: (Softly) "Aaditya, I know you're worried, but I'm sure it's nothing serious. You have an important day at the office—you can't just drop everything. I'll go to the hospital with Meera. She'll take care of me."

Aaditya: (Hesitant) "But Tara—"

Tara: (Firmly, though with a gentle smile) "No buts. I'll be fine. Meera is with me, and I'll call you as soon as I know anything."

Aaditya looked into her eyes, searching for any sign of reassurance. He could see how much she didn't want him to worry, how much she wanted him to focus on his work. But the thought of her going to the hospital without him gnawed at his heart.

Aaditya: (Reluctantly) "Okay, but promise me you'll keep me updated. The moment you get there, call me. And if anything feels off, I'll be there in a heartbeat."

Tara: (Nodding) "I promise."

Meera stepped forward, her expression serious but supportive.

Meera: "Don't worry, Aaditya bhaiya. I'll make sure she's in good hands. We'll go right away."

Aaditya finally let go of Tara's hand, though he still looked troubled. He watched as Meera helped Tara gather her things, his heart heavy with worry. As they left for the hospital, Aaditya stood by the door, watching until they were out of sight.