Secrets of a Second Life

Nakul's Refusal to Feed the Child

As the days passed, the tension in the house grew thicker. Despite Nakul's growing bond with his child, there was one task he could not bring himself to perform—feeding the baby. Every time the baby cried out in hunger, Nakul froze. He knew what the baby needed, but something deep inside him rejected the idea of providing nourishment.

Pradyuman noticed this hesitation almost immediately. He could see Nakul's discomfort, his reluctance to step forward when the baby cried for milk. It was clear that Nakul's fear still lingered, especially when it came to the more intimate responsibilities of parenting. The idea of feeding the child seemed to bring all of Nakul's anxieties back to the surface.

"Nakul, it's time," Pradyuman said one morning, handing the child to him. The baby, now clearly hungry, whined softly, reaching for Nakul.

Nakul stared at the baby's small, grasping hands but couldn't bring himself to make a move. His throat tightened as panic washed over him. "I can't, Papa. I can't do it."

"You're their father," Pradyuman replied sternly. "You must take care of them."

But Nakul shook his head. "Every time I think about it... it doesn't feel right. It's not natural."

Pradyuman's expression softened, but his voice remained firm. "This child is not just a part of the curse, Nakul. They're a part of you. Feeding them is more than just nourishment—it's a bond. You mustn't deny them that."

Nakul's hands trembled as he continued to hold the baby, but his body stiffened. The baby's cries grew louder, more desperate, but Nakul stepped back, shaking his head. He couldn't bring himself to do it. The idea of the child drawing nourishment from him sent waves of discomfort through his body. He felt as though something was wrong, as though feeding the child would bind them further to the curse.

"I won't," Nakul said finally, his voice trembling with fear and frustration. "I won't do it."