Unconditional Love

68. When the Past Comes Home

Rahul bhai took a deep breath and said softly, "When I got to know about your nightmare, beta... I thought before coming here, I should check in with your doctor once."

Virat's body immediately tensed. His brows furrowed, and he leaned in just a little, his protective instinct kicking in.

"What did he say?" Virat asked quietly but firmly, his fingers unconsciously tightening on Aman's shoulder.

Rahul bhai glanced at Aman gently before turning to Virat. "We can talk about that," he nodded, "but there's one condition."

Virat's eyes narrowed slightly. "What?" he pressed.

Rahul bhai spoke calmly but clearly. "If Aman feels even a little uneasy, or if there's any pain... we stop."

His gaze shifted to Aman, making sure he was listening. "And Aman, you have to tell us. Honestly. No pretending."

There was a silence for a second.

Virat's eyes stayed fixed on Aman, searching his face, worry clear in his expression.

Aman looked a little confused, his brows drawn together as he glanced from Rahul bhai to Virat.

"I... okay," Aman finally nodded slowly. "But... what's happening? What did the doctor say?"

Virat's hand shifted from Aman's shoulder to gently hold his hand, grounding him.

He squeezed it, his eyes silently saying I'm right here.

Rahul bhai gave them both a steady look. "We'll talk. But only if you're ready."

Aman's words tumbled out in a rush, his voice rising with each question. "Why would I feel pain? How is the stomach thing related to this? And what are you all talking about? I was going to ask about you, Virat bhai, but now it feels like this is about me. What's going on?"

His breathing grew a little uneven as he rambled, his eyes darting between Virat, Rahul bhai, Rohit and Jassi, searching for answers.

Virat immediately shifted closer, both hands holding Aman's now.

"Bacha, hey... one by one," Virat said softly but firmly.

His thumbs ran soothing circles over Aman's hands. "Don't stress yourself."

Aman blinked at him, still confused, his brows knitted tight. "But why do you keep saying that, bhai? Why are you and Rahul sir looking at me like that? Tell me."

Virat exhaled slowly, his gaze steady on his brother. "Because we care," he said quietly. "And there's nothing wrong in being careful. That's all."

Rahul bhai nodded. "Beta, there's no danger right now. We just want to be cautious. That's why I spoke to the doctor."

Jassi gently placed his hand on Aman's shoulder. "We're all here. No one's hiding anything from you," he said reassuringly.

Aman took a shaky breath, eyes still fixed on Virat. "Promise?" he whispered.

Virat squeezed his hands again. "Promise," he said softly, he patted his cheek and said, "We'll tell you everything. But slowly. Together."

Aman gave a faint nod, still holding onto Virat's hands like an anchor.

Rahul bhai gave Virat a gentle nod, signaling him to take the lead.

Virat exhaled slowly and shifted a little closer to Aman, his hand still holding his brother's firmly.

His voice softened, steady but kind. "Bacha, why don't we start with what you wanted to ask about me... to Rahul bhai? Hmm?"