In the heart of chaos

Chapter 46

Akshara stood outside Aarohi's office at Sarvodaya Hospital, her heart heavy with the weight of what she was about to do. She had replayed the conversation in her mind countless times, trying to find the right words that would convey her concern without igniting another conflict. But as she reached for the door handle, her mind was still a swirl of doubts.

Taking a deep breath, she knocked lightly before pushing the door open. Aarohi was seated at her desk, immersed in some paperwork, her focus sharp as ever. The sight of her cousin—so composed, so powerful—made Akshara's resolve waver for a moment. But she forced herself to step inside.

"Aaru," Akshara called softly, her voice tinged with hesitation.

Aarohi looked up, her expression unreadable. "Akshara," she acknowledged, her tone neutral but lacking warmth. "What brings you here?"

Akshara closed the door behind her and walked over to the chair across from Aarohi's desk, sitting down slowly. "I wanted to talk to you about... the suspension," she began carefully, watching Aarohi's face for any sign of how this conversation might go.

Aarohi's eyes narrowed slightly, but she didn't interrupt. She simply leaned back in her chair, waiting for Akshara to continue.

"Abhi... he's really upset, Aaru," Akshara said, her voice gentle but earnest. "This suspension is a big deal for him. His career... it means everything to him. I know you and he have had your differences, but... couldn't there have been another way to handle this?"

Aarohi remained silent for a moment, her gaze steady as she considered Akshara's words. Finally, she spoke, her tone calm but firm. "Akshara, I didn't make this decision lightly. Abhimanyu's mistake during surgery wasn't something that could be brushed aside. As the head of this hospital, I have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of care. This wasn't about personal differences—it was about protecting our patients and maintaining the integrity of our profession."

Akshara nodded, though her heart sank at Aarohi's unwavering stance. "I understand that, Aaru, I do. But suspending him for an entire year? It feels... harsh. Abhi's not a bad doctor. He's one of the best. Couldn't there have been a different consequence, something less severe?"

Aarohi's expression softened, but only slightly. "Akshara, this wasn't just about punishment. It's about accountability. Abhimanyu made a serious error, and as much as it pains me to see a colleague—someone from my own family—suffer, I have to think about what's best for the patients and the hospital. A lesser consequence wouldn't have sent the right message."

Akshara sighed, her heart heavy with the weight of the situation. "I know you're right about accountability, Aaru, but this is going to affect his entire life. Can't we find a way to... lessen the impact? Maybe reduce the suspension or allow him to do some sort of remedial work instead?"

Aarohi shook her head, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "I've already made my decision, Akshara. The suspension stands. I can't change it without undermining the authority and trust that this position demands. If I bend the rules for Abhimanyu, what does that say about our commitment to patient safety?"

Akshara felt a lump forming in her throat, but she forced herself to continue. "Aaru, please... I'm not asking you to compromise your principles. I'm just asking you to consider the personal toll this is going to take on him. On us. You've always been strong and fair. I know you can find a way to balance justice with compassion."

Aarohi's gaze softened further, and for a moment, Akshara thought she might have reached her. But then Aarohi shook her head once more, her expression resolute. "I appreciate that you came here to talk, Akshara. I really do. But my decision is final. Abhimanyu needs to take this time to reflect and learn from his mistake. It's not the end of his career—it's a chance for him to come back stronger and more careful."

Akshara felt tears prickling at the corners of her eyes, but she blinked them away, nodding slowly. "I see," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I just... I wish things were different between us, Aaru. I hate seeing our family torn apart like this."

Aarohi's expression softened fully now, a flicker of vulnerability passing through her eyes. "I don't want our family torn apart either, Akshara. But sometimes, being strong means making difficult choices. I hope you can understand that."

Akshara nodded again, feeling a deep sadness settle in her chest. She knew Aarohi was right, but it didn't make the situation any easier. "I'll try," she murmured, rising from her chair. "Thank you for hearing me out, Aaru."

Aarohi gave her a small, understanding nod. "We'll get through this, Akshara. I promise."

As Akshara left the office, her heart was heavy with unresolved emotions. She knew this wouldn't be the last difficult conversation they would have, but she also knew that, despite everything, Aarohi was trying to do what she believed was right. And for now, that would have to be enough.