Rishtey

Chapter - 10

The next morning, Anamika woke with the remnants of her encounter with Vineet clouding her mind. But as her gaze fell to her belly, she felt a different kind of warmth. Gently, she placed her hand over the small swell, feeling the delicate life within her.

In a soft, trembling voice, she whispered, "Good morning, meri jaan. I know things are complicated, and maybe you can feel that too. But you're the best part of me now, and I promise to give you all the love and care I have."

A newfound resolve sparked within her. This child was her new beginning, a fresh hope, and a reminder of the strength she needed to move forward.

Anamika felt a renewed strength as she spoke to her child, as if every word was solidifying her purpose. "I'm going to be strong for you," she murmured. "We'll make a life filled with love, just you and me."

For the first time in a long while, a faint smile crept onto her face. She felt the weight of the past slowly lifting, replaced by the hope of a future built on her own terms. Though the pain still lingered, Anamika realized that her child was giving her a reason to heal, to find her own happiness beyond anyone else.

As she finished speaking softly to her child, Anamika felt a sense of determination setting in. She quickly freshened up, reminding herself of the busy day ahead. She had a gynecologist appointment for a check-up and an important meeting with Raman to finalize the deal. Her focus shifted to the new life she was creating, both within herself and in her career. Today, she would continue forward, embracing her future with resilience and purpose.

.....

Anamika arrived at the clinic a little while later, sitting quietly in the waiting room. Her thoughts drifted back to Vineet, but she pushed them away, centering herself on the moment. Her child was her priority now. Soon her name was announced and she walked in.

As Anamika lay on the examination table, the doctor gently conducted her check-up, checking her vitals and monitoring the baby's heartbeat. Her face softened with concern as she noted Anamika's pale complexion and slight weakness.

"Are you getting enough support at home?" the doctor asked carefully, sensing Anamika's hesitation. "Sometimes, fathers can provide that extra reassurance and help reduce stress during pregnancy. It can make a big difference for both you and the baby."

The words hit Anamika like a sharp ache, stirring emotions she'd tried to bury. Taking a steadying breath, she managed a soft response, "I'm single... My husband and I... we're no longer together."

The doctor's expression shifted, empathetic but professional. "I understand. Just make sure you're taking care of yourself and getting the support you need. Pregnancy can be challenging, especially alone, but focus on staying healthy. You're doing this for both you and your little one."

Anamika nodded, holding back the mix of pain and strength she felt. She left the clinic with a renewed determination to stand on her own and focus on the life growing within her.

As Anamika settled into the backseat of her car and gazed out the window, her mind began to drift, the doctor's words still echoing in her thoughts. Almost as if pulled by an invisible thread, she found herself immersed in an old memory, one of those moments she and Vineet had shared in pure joy and laughter.

She remembered a cozy evening a few years ago. They had been at home, snuggled on the couch, discussing their future dreams and whimsically fantasizing about their future family.

With a mischievous grin, Vineet had leaned in close and whispered, "You know, I love kids. I want a whole bunch of them!"

Anamika had chuckled, resting her head on his shoulder. "Oh, really? How many are we talking here?"