My Safe Haven

Chapter : 19: SSG

Watching:- Emotional distress and guilt, Past traumas and nightmares (implied, but not explicitly described), Mental health struggles and therapy. ⚠

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Thoughts are in italic...

Saras's POV

Saras sat in his room with Aviraj, Aarsh, Saatvik, and Gauri, engaging in small talk. Samridhi opted for a nap, dramatically declaring, "I'm off for a snooze, Ru! If I don't get my beauty sleep, I'll be rocking some seriously scary dark circles - and trust me, nobody wants that horror show!" Her words, not his.

However, his mind lingered on the pleasant breakfast he'd shared with his family after so long. With his regained memories, Saras instantly discovered that every dish his father prepared was one of his favorites. His father didn't need to voice how much he loved him; his actions spoke louder. However, it was this very love that filled Saras with guilt. He still hadn't confided in anyone about regaining his memories, but he planned to tell Aviraj when they were alone. His instincts urged him to keep quiet, and he'd learned to trust his gut; it had never failed him.

He acknowledged his family's unwavering support, yet somehow, he couldn't bring himself to share his secret, unable to grasp why. With a sigh, he resigned himself to confiding only in Aviraj, for now.

"Why are you sighing, Suru? Are you okay?" Aviraj asked, frowning beside him. Saras shook his head, offering a reassuring smile. "I'm fine." Saatvik pressed on, "Are you sure, Suru?" Saras's smile widened slightly. "I'm perfectly fine, Bhaiya, really."

As Saatvik relaxed, Saras turned to Gauri. "Can you tell me more about Dr. Adarsh, di?"

Gauri's eyes sparkled. "I was waiting for you to ask! I'm glad you did. Actually, I've been thinking of discussing something with you, Suru."

"What is it, di?" Saras asked.

"Are you comfortable with having a video conversation?" Gauri asked. Saras tilted his head, curious. "You want me to have a video conversation with Dr. Adarsh?" Gauri nodded. "Yes, Suru, Dr. Adarsh is based in the USA. Your appointments will be via video call. I just wanted to check if you're comfortable with that."

Saras chewed on his lip, considering. He didn't mind therapy, regardless of the format, but one concern lingered. "Will you guys be there with me? I don't want to be alone. Will he allow it?" His worry stemmed from the usual psychologist-client confidentiality, but Gauri's reassuring smile put him at ease.

"Of course, Suru," Gauri said. "Family members attending psychology appointments with the patient's permission is completely normal."

Saras released a sigh of relief.

Gauri suggested, "How about a brief introduction via video call?"

Saras's eyes widened. "You mean now? Like right now?"

Gauri nodded. "I can call him now if he's available. Don't worry, it's just an introduction. You can always say no."

Saras slowed his breathing, weighing the option. Having his family present made him feel more at ease.

He turned to Aviraj, tightening his grip on Aviraj's hand resting on his lap. Aviraj smiled knowingly. "Nervous, love?"

Saras suppressed a smile; Aviraj understood him too well. He nodded.

Aviraj offered a reassuring nod. "It's okay to be nervous. Dr. Adarsh is an excellent doctor and person. Do you trust me?"

Saras nodded without hesitation. "Yes."