Shadow of redemption

confidence

Hello everyone welcome to new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

Rakshit sat beside Aaravi, his head lowered in exhaustion, his pale skin, the dark circles under his eyes, and his trembling hands. Aaravi gently touched his arm, her voice tender. “You need rest, Rakshit. You can’t fight if you’re broken.”

He shook his head. “I can’t sleep, Aaravi. Every time I close my eyes, it feels like everything will collapse.”

Aaravi carefully shifted, patting the space next to her. “Then stay here beside me."

Hesitant, Rakshit lay beside her, resting his head on her shoulder. His arms wrapped around her tightly, clinging to her like a lifeline. “Don’t leave me. l am scared of losing you.” he whispered, his voice breaking.

Aaravi stroked his hair softly, her words a balm to his wounded soul. “Close your eyes, Rakshit. You need strength for the battles ahead. I’m here. Always.”

For the first time in months, Rakshit surrendered to the warmth of her presence, falling into a deep, peaceful sleep. He felt safe cocooned in warmth of her. Aaravi, despite her own pain, smiled faintly, watching him rest like a child, finally unburdened by the weight he carried.

As he drifted into a deep, peaceful sleep, Aaravi smiled faintly, watching him. She murmured, “Gather your strength, Rakshit. We’ll face this together.”

Raj entered Aaravi’s hospital room, his curiosity piqued by her urgent call. Upon seeing Aryan asleep on one side of Aaravi and Rakshit on the other, his brows furrowed in confusion. “Bhabhi, what’s happening here?” he asked, his voice low to avoid disturbing the sleeping duo.

Aaravi chuckled softly, her eyes gleaming with warmth. “These two are the apples of my eyes, Raj. Both are stubbornly claiming their positions.”

Raj smirked. “And what about me, Bhabhi? Left out?”

Aaravi reached for his hand and, with a loving smile, placed her other hand gently on his head. “You’re my sweet little devar. Don’t be jealous; you have your special place.”

Raj’s heart swelled with emotion at her motherly gesture. “I missed you so much, Bhabhi,” he admitted softly. “You’ve got to get better—for all of us.”

“I will,” Aaravi replied, her smile full of reassurance.

Aaravi lay on the hospital bed, a soft smile playing on her lips. On her right, Aryan, her protective brother, was in a deep sleep, his hand loosely draped over hers. On her left, Rakshit clung to her like a lifeline, his face nestled near her shoulder, his exhaustion evident. Raj sat in a chair at the foot of her bed, observing the peaceful yet surprising scene with a quiet sense of belonging.

Just then, Dr. Rajesh Kapoor, Dr. Priya Kapoor, and Riya entered. They froze, stunned by the sight. Recovering quickly, Dr. Kapoor approached Aaravi and gently checked her pulse. “Betu, are you okay? Is there any discomfort?”

“No, Papa,” Aaravi replied warmly, squeezing his hand. “I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”

Priya sat beside Aaravi, brushing her hair lovingly. “You have us so worried, Aaravi. Take care of yourself for once.”

Riya chimed in, “Exactly, Aaravi. And, well… this is quite a sight.” She gestured teasingly to Aryan and Rakshit.

As everyone chuckled, their eyes fell on Raj. Dr. Kapoor’s voice turned serious. “Raj, why are you here?”

Before Raj could respond, Aaravi intervened. “Papa, I called him. And Rakshit too.”

Her father frowned. “After everything—”