Fragile Hearts

C h a p t e r - 62

A dull ache spread across Siddharth’s body as his eyes fluttered open. His vision was hazy at first, but as it cleared, he saw two familiar figures sitting beside him—his mother and his sister.

His mother’s eyes were red and swollen, her worry evident as she held his hand tightly. His sister, sitting beside her, had her arms crossed, her expression unreadable.

Kavitha: "Sid…," his mother whispered, adjusting the pillow behind him so he could sit halfway up.

The simple movement sent a wave of pain through his ribs, making him wince.

Kavitha: "Enna aachu da? Ipdi adi patruku enna da nadandhuchu?"

Her voice was thick with concern, but before Siddharth could even think of an answer, his sister placed a hand on their mother’s arm.

Keerthi: "Amma, avane ipodha kan mulikuren, ippo avan tired ah irupan. Konjam relax panunga. Aprm ah kekkalam..."

His mother sighed but didn’t push further. Instead, she ran her fingers through his hair.

A few moments later, the door opened, and the doctor stepped in. After a quick check-up, he nodded approvingly.

Doctor: "No fractures, just some deep bruises and a mild concussion. Neenga madhiyathukulla discharge pannikalam. Just ensure he rests well for the next few days."

His mother sighed in relief, and his sister finally relaxed a little.

___

Some time passed, and his mother and sister stepped out to settle the hospital bills. The room was quiet for a while—until the door opened again.

Vikram and Rahul walked in.

Their playful demeanor was missing. Vikram's eyes scanned taking in the bandages and bruises.

Vikram: "What the hell happened, da?" He asked, standing beside him.

Rahul stayed quiet, his face serious.

Siddharth exhaled, ready to answer—

But the door opened once again.

Riya.

She walked in with her father. Her eyes immediately landed on Siddharth, and for a moment, he saw the worry flash in them.

He gave her assuring smile and blinked his eyes.

Her father stepped forward, his expression composed.

Ashok: "How are you feeling, Siddharth?" he asked, his voice polite yet firm.

Siddharth straightened a little, ignoring the pain in his ribs.

Siddharth: "I’m fine, uncle. How are you? Pathu romba naal achu..."

Her father gave a slight nod.

Ashok: "Na nalla iruken pa. Take care of yourself," he said before turning to Riya. "I’ll be outside."

With that, he left, leaving Riya alone with them.

Siddharth's eyes stuck to the door as if he expecting someone to make a entry. Riya understood his expectations and gripped his hand.

Then, Vikram leaned forward.

Vikram: "Ipovaachu sollu. What exactly happened?"

Siddharth hesitated for a moment before finally speaking.

____

Flashback

The evening sun cast long shadow on the playground. Siddharth stood alone near the goalpost, kicking a small rock absentmindedly. His mind was elsewhere—on Arun.