RESTART

chapter 18

The past few days had been challenging for Jeevika. A lingering dizziness had taken hold, making her feel weak and fatigued. Despite her discomfort, she tried to maintain a sense of normalcy, sitting with her family at breakfast. Laughter filled the air, but she felt a growing heaviness in her head.

As she got up to fetch another dish, the world around her began to spin. In an instant, her vision blurred, and before she could grasp what was happening, she fainted.

Abhiman, who had been talking with Veer and Riddhi, immediately noticed her collapse. His heart raced as he rushed to her side, scooping her up effortlessly. Carrying her to their room, he laid her gently on the bed. Panic coursed through him as he sprinkled water on her face, desperately trying to rouse her.

Slowly, Jeevika opened her eyes, blinking against the light. The first thing she saw was Abhiman’s scared expression, his brow furrowed with concern. “Kya hua?” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

“You fainted,” he replied, relief washing over him as she began to regain her awareness. “Can’t you just say you’re sick? Why didn’t you eat? You’re becoming so weak. Let’s go to the hospital.”

“I’m okay,” she assured him, her voice steadier now. “It’s just weakness. You don’t need to worry about it.”

Abhiman’s worry didn’t dissipate easily. “Okay, but we’re going to the hospital this evening if you still don’t feel well,” he insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument.

“Fine, I’ll go if I’m not feeling better,” she said, sensing the stubborn determination in his eyes. After a lot of convincing, he reluctantly agreed, and with a heavy heart, he left for work.

When Abhiman returned home later that day, he found Jeevika sitting up in bed, looking much better than before. “See? I told you I’m fine,” she smiled, attempting to ease his worry.

He wasn’t convinced. “We’re still going to the hospital on Sunday,” he declared, crossing his arms. “No arguments.”

Jeevika sighed but understood the concern behind his words. Deep down, she knew that a visit to the hospital could serve another purpose. It might be an opportunity to investigate her stepmother Kamini’s pregnancy and unearth more secrets about her past. Perhaps this would lead her to the answers she desperately sought.

“Alright, at least I’ll get some answers,” she thought, silently resolving to make the most of the situation.

“Okay, fine,” she agreed, smiling at Abhiman. “But only if you promise to stay by my side.”

“Always,” he replied, relief washing over him as he took her hand, squeezing it gently.

As they sat together, Jeevika felt a mix of gratitude and determination. With Abhiman’s unwavering support, she was ready to confront whatever lay ahead.
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