His dark obsession

15. Eye to eye

Dr. Rao smiled warmly. "Ekansh, Samyuktika's stable for now. The procedure worked."

Ekansh's tension eased. "Thank God," he breathed. Dr. Rao nodded. "We'll monitor her closely. She's not out of the woods yet."

Ekansh's eyes never left Samyuktika. "I'll stay with her." Dr. Rao nodded. "I'll keep you updated."

Samyuktika's chest rose and fell steadily.
Ekansh's grip on her hand tightened.
She was going to be okay. She had to be.

Ekansh's eyes welled up as he gazed at Samyuktika's fragile form. He had never felt such overwhelming guilt. His actions, his decisions, had brought her to this point. Tears streamed down his face, and he buried his face in his hands.

How could he have been so blind? So cruel? He had pushed her, tested her, and hurt her. Now, she suffered. His shoulders shook as he sobbed, consumed by regret and anguish.

He wished he could turn back time, make it right, protect her from harm. Vijay approached, placing a gentle hand on Ekansh's shoulder. "Sir?" Ekansh lifted his red-rimmed eyes, his voice barely above a whisper. "Get me a chair."

Vijay nodded and left, returning with a chair. Ekansh sat beside Samyuktika, holding her hand. His tears fell onto their entwined fingers. "I'm so sorry, Samyuktika," he whispered, his voice cracking. "I'll make it right. I promise."

As he sat there, Ekansh realized his feelings for Samyuktika went far beyond concern. He cared deeply for her, and the thought of losing her was unbearable. He vowed to do everything in his power to ensure her recovery and happiness.

Samyuktika's determination surprised Ekansh as she rose from the hospital bed, her eyes flashing with a mix of anger and hurt. Ekansh's instincts screamed to retreat, to shield himself from the pain she embodied. He hardened his heart, donning his familiar mask of indifference.

"I thought you'd learn from your mistakes," Samyuktika said, her voice icy. "But you're still the same, aren't you?"

Ekansh's grip on his emotions faltered for a moment before he regained control. "I am what I am, Samyuktika," he said coolly.

But the façade crumbled as he gazed at her. "Samyuktika, I'm sorry," he said, the words ripping from his chest.

Samyuktika's laughter cut him deep. "Sorry? Why bother with formalities, Ekansh? Your apology means nothing."

Ekansh's eyes burned, but he refused to show weakness. "Fine. Don't forgive me," he snapped, his tone biting.

Samyuktika's smile twisted. "I won't. Your sorry seems granted, Ekansh. But it's just a word. Actions speak louder."

Ekansh's mask slipped, revealing the turmoil beneath. For a moment, Samyuktika saw the vulnerability he desperately concealed.

But Ekansh swiftly regained control, his expression cold once more. "This conversation is over," he said, turning to leave.

Samyuktika's voice followed him. "It's far from over, Ekansh."

Ekansh re-entered Samyuktika's hospital room, his expression unreadable. "Tomorrow, you'll be discharged," he announced.

Samyuktika's eyes narrowed. "I won't go to that hell with you."

Ekansh's jaw clenched. "You don't have a choice."

Samyuktika's voice rose. "I'd rather die than return to your prison."

Ekansh's eyes flashed with anger. "You'll do as I say."

Samyuktika's smile was bitter. "Or what? You'll lock me up again? Beat me down with your words?"

Ekansh's face twisted. "You're still recovering. You need care."