Unconditional Love

40. Care

"Virat," Rohit called softly when Virat broke the hug. He didn't say anything. "It's okay, I know you don't want to talk about it, but at least have something, please— for Aman," Rohit said gently, holding his hand and leading him to the kitchen.

Rohit fed him a few bites; it wasn't a full meal, but at least Virat had eaten something. Afterward, Virat helped Rohit silently, and then they went to their room and got into bed, both exhausted from the events of the day.

Virat closed his eyes, not wanting to feel anything at all. Rohit cuddled up to him, wanting to provide some warmth. He looked at Virat's face—tense and worried—and gently kissed his forehead. Rohit then covered them with the comforter and cuddled him again.

The next morning, Rohit woke up early and noticed that Virat had already freshened up and was sitting on the bed, leaning against the headrest. Rohit quickly freshened up and returned to find Virat in the same position.

Rohit sat beside him and took his hand in his, pulling him into a hug. The only positive was that Virat would at least hug him back; physically, Rohit could provide some comfort.

Breaking the hug, Rohit cupped Virat's cheeks. "Everything will be fine, Vi—have faith," he said gently, kissing his forehead.

"Why did you say all that, Ro? I was trying to be better for you, but you hurt me—a lot," Virat said, avoiding his eyes.

Rohit didn't know whether to be relieved that Virat had finally said something or upset about how much he had hurt him. The way Virat said, "was trying" sent a shiver through him—did it mean he had relapsed into that awful habit again?

Rohit took a deep breath, trying to compose himself. "I was scared, Vi. I am scared. When I ran away from the orphanage, I lost Jassi. There was someone— a kind man I called Kaka— who gave me a place to stay, but he died. I lost him too. This fear of losing people...it just never goes away. When you didn't talk to me for two or three days, I panicked, and I snapped. I know it doesn't make what I said right, but...I'm sorry," Rohit said, his voice trembling as tears rolled down his cheeks.

Virat wiped his tears with his thumb, his palm resting on Rohit's cheek. Rohit instinctively leaned into his touch. 

"Come here," Virat said lovingly, his tone soft and reassuring. Hearing that, Rohit didn't hesitate and leaped into Virat's arms, settling on his lap.

Rohit let himself cry, and Virat held him, rubbing his back gently to console him. "I'm sorry," Rohit murmured again, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I know," Virat replied, his voice calm yet understanding.

"I don't want to lose what we have Ro", Virat said quietly holding Rohit close, "I promise, you won't", Rohit replied back holding his hand. 

Rohit knew it wouldn't be easy for Virat to forget the harsh words he'd spoken, but for now, this was enough. Forgiveness would take time.

As Rohit broke the hug, Virat cupped his cheeks gently, wiping away the remaining tears.

"We managed to get some work done yesterday," Rohit said hesitantly.

"That's progress," Virat replied softly, a faint smile on his lips, knowing how hard it had been for both of them. Rohit nodded, his heart slightly lighter than before.

"Want to check on Aman and prepare breakfast?" Rohit asked.

"It's just 6 a.m.—he won't wake up early. Let's just stay like this for a while," Virat said, wrapping his arms around Rohit's waist. Rohit rested his head on Virat's chest. He was surprised but happy that Virat had spoken a little.

"Rohit, don't hurt me with those words again," Virat whispered, intertwining his fingers with Rohit's.

Rohit lifted his head from Virat's chest and looked into his eyes, which were filled with so much hurt and unspoken emotion. "I never will. I'm sorry," Rohit said, gently leaning his forehead against Virat's.

After a while, they went outside. Rohit began preparing coffee while Virat worked on his files. They decided they would make breakfast once the other two woke up.

Jassi woke up first and freshened up. When he came outside, he noticed Aman stirring awake, only to clutch his head in pain. It was the first time Jassi had seen Aman drunk, and he hadn't realized how much it could affect him.

"Baby, take it easy," Jassi said, rushing to him as Aman nearly stumbled out of bed. Aman leaned his head against Jassi's chest, seeking support as Jassi wrapped an arm around him.

"I feel so dizzy," Aman mumbled, his voice muffled against Jassi's chest.

"I know, love. It'll pass. Can you try to freshen up? Cold water might help," Jassi said gently, stroking Aman's cheek with his thumb.

Jassi helped Aman to the bathroom. Aman splashed cold water on his face and freshened up, but the dizziness lingered. "Did it help?" Jassi asked gently as Aman stepped out. Aman shook his head, the motion only worsening his dizziness.

"Do you want to rest or try having coffee outside?" Jassi asked as Aman leaned against him for support.

"Outside," Aman murmured, his voice barely audible.

Jassi wrapped his arm around Aman and guided him to the living room. As they entered, Virat and Rohit noticed Aman leaning heavily on Jassi, looking utterly drained.

"What's wrong?" Rohit asked, concern etched on his face as Jassi carefully seated Aman on the couch.

"He's dizzy," Jassi explained before heading to the kitchen to fetch some coffee.

When he returned, Jassi handed the cup to Virat, who gently helped Aman take a few sips. Aman managed only half the cup before closing his eyes, desperate for the dizziness to pass.

"Bacha, should I call the doctor?" Virat asked softly.

"No, bhai... just stay with me," Aman replied in a faint voice. Virat stayed by his side, holding his hand tightly.

After a while, Aman broke the silence. "Bhai?"

"Haan, kiddo?" Virat responded, his tone tender.

"I want to eat aloo ka paratha, the kind you used to make when we were kids," Aman said hesitantly.

Virat smiled warmly and kissed Aman's forehead. "Of course. But you'll need to let go of my hand so I can make it," he teased softly.

As Virat rose to prepare the parathas, Jassi took his place beside Aman, providing silent support. Rohit joined Virat in the kitchen, helping with the preparations.

Virat's mind lingered on Aman. Did he remember their conversation from the previous night? Something felt off— Virat could sense it.

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