The Silent Betrayal

11. Fading Moments

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The hospital corridors were eerily silent, a stark contrast to the vibrant cheers and celebration that had erupted just a few minutes ago at the stage of competition. Otherside, D3 team had performed with all their heart, clearing the first performance and marking their first international recognition. Yet, amidst the accolades and joy Rey and Swayam wrestled with their inner turmoil. The weight of personal struggles clouded their hearts, but Sharon, sensing their tension, stayed close to them, offering her silent support.

Meanwhile, in the cold and sterile walls of the hospital, a different battle was unfolding. Rishi's condition had worsened, forcing the doctors to operate on him again. The hope that once lingered in the family's hearts was now slowly slipping away, replaced with dread.

As the minutes stretched on, a doctor finally approached Rashmi, Taani, Archana and Sholak, his face grim and his tone heavy.

"We are sorry, but his condition is very critical. Mr.Shekhawat has very little time left now."

Rashmi's knees buckled as she heard the words. Her heart shattered into a thousand pieces, and tears flowed uncontrollably. Archana caught her before she could fall, trying to console her, though her own grief was palpable.

Taani, standing just a few feet away, felt her world collapsing too. She hadn’t even processed the events of the last few hours — the wedding that never happened, the betrayal, and now this. It felt like everything she loved was being stripped away from her, piece by piece. As the doctor's words sank in, her vision blurred, and she swayed slightly, about to lose her balance.

But before she could fall, a firm hand caught her—Abhimaan. He had been silently watching her, standing by her side, and the moment he saw her faltering, he reached out instinctively.

"Put Yourself together. Tumhare Taauji tumhein strong dekhna chahte hain."–He softly said.

[Your uncle wants to see you strong.]

Taani looked up at him, her vision still hazy, her mind still reeling. For a moment, she let herself lean into his support, feeling the strength in his hold, but then, gathering herself, she straightened and took a deep breath.

"Mujhe unke paas jaana hai."

[I want to go to him]

The doctor, understanding the family's need to see Rishi in his final moments, nodded and led them to the room where he lay. The rhythmic beeping of machines filled the air, a cruel reminder that time was slipping away.

As they entered the room, Rashmi rushed to Rishi's side and sat beside him, her hands trembling as she took his frail hand in hers. His eyes fluttered open slowly, weak but still filled with the love he always carried for his family.

"You can't leave us like this.... you have to stay with us."

Rishi's gave her a faint smile, his breath labored, but his spirit still strong. He slowly raised his other hand to cup her cheek, his voice barely a whisper, yet full of tenderness.

"Main hamesha tumhare saath rahunga... chahe kahin bhi hoon. Tum sabko apna dhyaan rakhna hoga, mera yeh safar...... yahin tak tha... lekin mera pyar kabhi khatam nahi hota."

[I will always be with you no matter where I am. You all have to take care of yourself, this journey of mine.....was here till now... but my love will never end.