Layers of Us

Chapter 51: Broken souls!

As the crowd grew around Isha, murmurs of concern echoing through the hall, Tripura raised her hands authoritatively, her voice firm yet composed.

"Please, everyone, it's fine. We will take care of her," she said, urging the audience to step back. "Kindly return to your seats and settle down. The event will resume shortly."

The crowd hesitated for a moment, but Tripura's calm demeanor reassured them. Slowly, people began to retreat, some whispering among themselves about what had just unfolded.

Meanwhile, Ram stood to the side, visibly irritated. He walked up to Tripura and grabbed her arm gently but firmly, his voice low but unmistakably dismissive. "Let it be. Someone else can handle this. Come with me," he said, already tugging her along.

Tripura stopped in her tracks, gently but decisively pulling her arm free from his grip. "I'd like to stay with her," she replied, her tone polite yet resolute.

Ram turned to face her fully, his eyes narrowing as if questioning her sanity. He didn't say a word, but his look spoke volumes: Why does this matter to you?

Tripura caught the unspoken question and met his gaze with quiet determination. "Please, Mr. Kapoor," she said softly, a hint of pleading in her voice but her resolve unshaken.

Ram exhaled sharply, clearly frustrated but with no choice but to relent. He nodded curtly and stepped back, muttering under his breath as he walked away, his hands shoved into his pockets.

Tripura turned her attention back to Isha, who was still on the ground, clutching her ankle as tears trickled down her cheeks. Bending down, Tripura placed a reassuring hand on Isha's shoulder.

"Come on, let's get you up," Tripura said gently.

Isha winced as Tripura carefully helped her to her feet, her arm wrapped around her waist for support. "It's okay, take it slow," Tripura whispered soothingly, guiding her step by step.

The back dancers offered to assist, but Tripura shook her head. "It's alright, I've got her."

Slowly, Tripura led Isha backstage, her steps steady and unhurried as Isha leaned on her for support. By the time they reached the dressing room, the doctor was already there, setting up to examine her injury.

Tripura helped Isha onto a chair and crouched down beside her, brushing a strand of hair away from her tear - streaked face. "You'll be fine," she assured her softly, her voice warm and comforting.

Isha nodded faintly, her lips trembling as the doctor began his examination. Tripura stayed by her side, her presence a quiet but steady source of comfort amidst the chaos.

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After the doctor carefully wrapped a bandage around Isha's ankle, he handed Tripura a slip with the list of medicines. "She'll need bed rest for at least a week," he instructed. "Make sure she avoids putting pressure on the ankle, and the painkillers should help manage the discomfort."

Tripura nodded, absorbing every word with quiet attentiveness. "Thank you, doctor," she said, walking him to the door.

Once the doctor left, Tripura stood by the doorway, reading the medicine slip with a focused expression.

From the chair, Isha's soft voice broke the silence. "Why did you help me?"

Tripura looked up, her brow furrowing slightly as she processed the question. Without answering immediately, she casually walked over to Isha, pulling a chair opposite her and sitting down. Her demeanor was calm, as if the answer were obvious.