rehmat

chapter 6

In the early hours of the morning, Pari finally drifted into a peaceful sleep, allowing Rudra a moment to relax. He gently exhaled, relieved that her pain had subsided, even if just for a little while. As he turned his attention to Anju, he noticed she was sleeping but her rest was uneasy, her body shifting slightly in a restless slumber.

Suddenly, Anju murmured in her sleep, "Ba...ba..." Her voice was soft, almost fragile.

Rudra leaned closer, his voice tender as he whispered, "Haa bacha...kya hua?" He reached out to stroke her hair, his heart aching to comfort her even in her dreams.

Anju's voice was frail, barely above a whisper as she stammered, "An...ju...toh na chab glam glaam lag laha hai aul handsh and legsh bhi dald ho laha hai..." Her words were slurred, reflecting her weakening state.

Rudra's heart ached at the sight of her suffering. He gently caressed her hair, his voice soft and reassuring despite the worry gnawing at him. "Shh... abhi thik ho jayega jaana, Baba haina aapke pass..." he said, trying to comfort her even as his mind raced with concern.

The fever showed no sign of subsiding, and Rudra felt a growing sense of panic. He had already given her medicine, but her condition seemed to be worsening. Determined to help her, Rudra carefully lifted Anju in his arms, feeling the heat radiating from her body. He carried her to the washroom, his steps quick but steady, her small frame almost weightless against him.

Once inside, he gently placed her on the counter. Anju’s eyes fluttered open, filled with fear and discomfort. "Ba...ba..nai jao...pleash..." she pleaded, her voice hoarse and laced with tears.

Rudra’s heart tightened at her words, but he knew he had to act fast. "Shona, ek min..." he murmured, his voice firm yet soothing as he hurriedly prepared the bath. He filled the tub with cool water, the sound of the running faucet blending with the soft sobs that escaped Anju's lips.

With care, Rudra removed her clothes, his hands trembling slightly as he worked. He then lowered her gently into the tub, the cool water causing her to shiver immediately. Rudra stayed close, holding her steady, his eyes never leaving her, silently praying that this would help ease her suffering.

After the cold bath, Rudra carefully dressed Anju in fresh clothes, ensuring she was warm and comfortable. He then gently lifted her into his arms and carried her to the living room. Sitting down on the couch, he cradled her in his lap as if she were a fragile baby, supporting her neck with one arm.

Rudra slowly lifted his T-shirt, just enough to expose his chest. He guided Anju’s face towards his skin, positioning her so she could latch onto him for comfort. With her small face nestled against his chest, hidden beneath the fabric of his shirt, Anju began sucking, seeking solace in the familiar warmth. Rudra’s hand tenderly stroked her cheeks, his fingers moving in slow, soothing circles to help her relax.

As she continued to nurse, Anju's tense body gradually eased, the comfort and closeness allowing her to drift into sleep. Rudra felt her tiny mouth stop sucking, and when he looked down, he saw that she had finally fallen asleep, her face peaceful against his skin.

Gently, he detached her and lifted her face from his chest, gazing at her sleeping form with a mixture of relief and deep affection. His eyes welled up with tears as he bent down to press a soft kiss to her forehead. "Mera baccha itna beemar ho gaya hai..." Rudra whispered, his voice thick with emotion, as he continued to stroke her cheeks with infinite tenderness.

Carefully, Rudra stood up, holding Anju close to his chest, and carried her to the bed. He laid her down gently, making sure she was comfortable, and then covered her with a soft blanket, tucking it around her snugly. Standing by her side, he watched her sleep, his heart full of love and worry, silently praying for her recovery.