Kusum held the form in her hands, her eyes slowly scanning the details. The room was quiet, the only sound being the faint hum of life outside.

Tara stood at the corner, nervously clutching the edge of her saree pallu, her fingers fidgeting as she anxiously awaited Kusum's reaction. Her heart raced as she tried to read her mother-in-law's expression, unsure of what would come next.

Kusum's eyes, which were usually stern, softened as she reached the end of the form. Her hands trembled slightly as she carefully placed the paper down.

When she looked up at Tara, a thin sheen of tears shimmered in her eyes, and her lips curved into a bright, proud smile.

"Tara..." she whispered, her voice barely audible, yet filled with emotion. Her hands reached up to wipe the tears that now streamed down her cheeks, unable to hold them back any longer.

"You've made me so proud, my child."

Tara's heart swelled with relief and joy, her nervousness slowly melting away as she stepped forward.

"Maaji.." she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Kusum embraced her tightly, her warmth and pride enveloping Tara like a protective shield.

"You will become a doctor," she said, her voice firm yet gentle. "I always knew you had greatness in you."

Tara clung to Kusum, her own tears finally spilling as the weight of the moment hit her. Kusum pulled back, her smile unwavering as she stroked Tara's cheek gently.

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"Is it really necessary? I mean, is the college that far away?" Kusum asked, her voice laced with concern as she glanced between Prithvi and Tara. She held the form tightly in her hands, her eyes showing a mix of emotions.

Prithvi, dressed in his clean white kurta, leaned forward. "Maa, it is necessary," he began softly. "Tara's college is in the city, and it will be easier for her to study if we stay closer. And Manik needs to get into a good school too."

Kusum's eyes shifted to Tara, who stood nervously, fidgeting with the end of her saree pallu.

"But why so soon? Can't you commute? Do you really need to shift to the city bungalow now?"

Tara looked down, unsure of what to say. Prithvi took a deep breath and smiled warmly at his mother.

"Maa, it's just for a while. We'll be back to visit. The city is not so far, and I'll make sure everything here in the village is taken care of."

Kusum sighed deeply, her eyes moistening. "And what about Manik? How will he adjust to this new life?"

Prithvi chuckled softly. "Manik is excited to go to a new school, Maa. He needs the best education, and the school near our city bungalow is perfect for him."

Kusum turned her attention back to the form in her hands, tears welling up. "I knew this day would come... but it's just happening so fast. The house will feel so empty without the three of you."

Tara stepped forward, her voice soft but filled with reassurance.

"Maa, we'll come back every chance we get. This is just for my studies, and I'll make sure to visit as often as I can."

Kusum looked up, her expression softening. "You've always dreamed of this, haven't you? To become a doctor."

Tara nodded, feeling the weight of her mother-in-law's emotions. "Yes, Maa. And I wouldn't be able to do this without all of your support."

Kusum reached out, gently touching Tara's arm. "Then go, child. Go chase your dreams. But remember, this home is always yours. Come back whenever you can."

Prithvi smiled, relieved to see the understanding in Kusum's eyes.

"We'll be just a few hours away, Maa. You'll barely have time to miss us before we're back for a visit."

Kusum chuckled lightly through her tears. "Go on then... I'll start packing a little something extra for the journey."

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Prithvi was carefully packing books into a large bag, while Manik stood nearby, watching his father work.

Beside him, Mannu, now fully grown into a strong, healthy dog, sat obediently, his tail thumping against the floor as he sensed the activity around him.

"Baba, can we take Mannu with us?" Manik asked with a hopeful voice, glancing from his father to the dog, his eyes wide with expectation.

Prithvi paused for a moment, looking up at Manik's eager face before standing up and walking over to him. He knelt down in front of his son, ruffling Mannu's fur gently.

Mannu leaned into Prithvi's touch, his tongue lolling out happily.

"The house may be big, but it's not like the haveli here. Mannu is used to the open fields, the fresh air, and all the space he has to play.

The city is different-there's too much noise, too many people. He won't be as happy there."

Manik looked down at Mannu, who was sitting loyally by his side, then back up at his father. His lips pressed together in a small pout, clearly disappointed by the answer.

Manik, still not satisfied with his father's response, ran off to the other room where Tara and Kusum were arranging things.

Tara, busy folding some clothes, glanced up as Manik burst into the room, his small face twisted in disappointment.

"Maa" he called out.

"Baba said we can't take Mannu with us. But the house in the city is so big, with a garden and everything. Why can't he come?"

Tara looked down at her son's pleading eyes and exchanged a knowing glance with Kusum, who chuckled softly.

She placed the neatly folded saree on the bed and knelt down to Manik's level, smoothing his hair with a gentle touch.

She smiled softly and said,

"Mannu will feel lonely there, beta. The garden is big, but it's not like the fields he's used to. But don't worry, Mannu will stay here with Dadi and all the workers. He won't be alone."

"But Maa..." Manik frowned, his lip quivering as he looked over at Mannu, who was now lying comfortably by the door, his eyes lazily watching the family.

Seeing her son's stubbornness, Tara playfully scooped him up into her arms and stood up, carrying him towards Prithvi, who was still busy packing. Mannu, sensing the movement, got up and followed, wagging his tail as he trotted beside them.

Tara walked into the room, with Manik in her arms and Mannu following closely behind. Prithvi was still packing, his back turned to them. She stepped closer, her eyes glinting with mischief.

She cleared her throat dramatically, making sure Prithvi heard her.

"Someone in this house is making very unfair decisions," she said in a playful tone.

Prithvi stopped what he was doing, glancing over his shoulder with a slight smile.

"Oh really?" he replied, raising an eyebrow.

Manik quickly chimed in,

"Baba won't let Mannu come with us!"

Tara placed Manik down and moved closer to Prithvi, her hands resting on her hips as she dramatically sighed.

"Our city bungalow is so big, with a garden and large halls. Mannu could easily find plenty of space to play. I don't see why he can't come along."

Prithvi leaned against the table, crossing his arms with an amused look on his face.

"And who told you to gang up on me with Mannu?" he teased, his eyes flicking between his wife and son.

Tara stepped even closer, pretending to be stern.

"Well, Manik and I have decided," she said, glancing at Manik, who nodded eagerly. "Mannu comes with us."

Prithvi chuckled, shaking his head.

"Mannu loves the fields, the open space. He'll get bored in the city, no matter how big the house is. And who's going to take him for all his walks?"

Manik pouted, but Tara wasn't about to give up. She nudged Prithvi gently. "Maybe, if someone wasn't so strict, we could make a little adjustment."

Prithvi leaned closer, his voice low, "Taking a payback for last week, are we?"

Tara tried to keep her expression serious, but a smile tugged at the corner of her lips. Prithvi reached out, tugging her closer, his teasing gaze making her heart skip.

"You know, I remember someone teasing me not too long ago, and I think this is a good moment for a little revenge."

Manik, clueless about their playful banter, clung to Tara's saree, still looking up at his father with hope in his eyes.

Tara, laughing softly, finally gave in. "Alright, fine. Mannu can stay. But you'll have to explain it to your son."

Prithvi knelt down in front of Manik, gently pulling him close.

"Mannu will be happiest here, beta. He'll have all his friends, the fields, and everyone to take care of him. And we'll come visit him every chance we get. Is that okay?"

Manik nodded slowly, still not entirely convinced, but trusting his father's words. Tara ruffled his hair before lifting him into her arms once more, giving Prithvi a playful glance as they left the room.

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The next morning came too quickly for anyone's liking. The household was a buzz of activity as the time for Tara, Prithvi, and Manik's departure drew nearer.

Bags were packed, gifts and blessings were exchanged, and the atmosphere carried a bittersweet mixture of excitement and sadness.

Kusum, though trying her best to remain composed, couldn't help but watch every move, her eyes following Tara closely.

Prithvi had just finished loading the luggage onto the cart that would take them to the city bungalow, and Manik was busy hugging Mannu, the dog looking a bit confused amidst the commotion.

The family gathered outside the grand haveli for a final round of farewells. Tara's heart was heavy, but she maintained a brave face as she took her final glance at the place she had grown to love so much.

Kusum approached Tara, her hands trembling as she cupped Tara's face.

"Beta, remember, this is your home. You'll always have a place here. Don't forget us, and keep yourself healthy and strong."

Tara could feel the lump in her throat but managed to keep her voice steady.

"Maaji, I'll miss you... and I promise, I'll come back to visit whenever I can."

Kusum smiled through her tears, "Just be happy, beta. That's all we want."

Manik, standing beside them, suddenly tugged at Tara's saree.

"Ma, are we leaving now? Can Mannu come with us?"

Prithvi, overhearing the innocent question, gave his son a soft smile.

"Beta, Mannu will stay here in the fields where he's happiest. We'll visit him often, I promise."

Manik pouted but accepted it, understanding that Mannu would be well cared for by Kusum and the household staff.

As the cart arrived, Prithvi helped Tara and Manik inside, settling them comfortably. Kusum came forward with a small bundle of sweets and snacks, slipping it into Tara's hands.

"For the journey," she said, her voice cracking slightly.

Tara couldn't hold back any longer and embraced Kusum tightly, whispering,

"Apna Khayal rakhiye ga Maaji "

( Take care of yourself, Maaji)

Kusum nodded, her tears finally flowing freely. "You too."

With one last, lingering look, the family stepped into the car, ready for the next chapter of their lives.

As the car began to roll away, Tara looked back, her heart aching as she waved at Kusum and the haveli, a place that had become so deeply tied to her identity.

Kusum stood there, waving until the car disappeared from sight, wiping her tears but knowing deep down that Tara was on the path to fulfilling her dreams.

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As the car smoothly rolled through the busy streets of the city, Tara gazed out of the window, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

It was still sinking in-this city would now be her home, not just a place she visited.

Manik sat beside her in the back seat, his face practically glued to the glass as he watched the buildings and bustling market stalls go by.

"Ma, look! That building is so tall!" Manik exclaimed, his voice full of wonder. His excitement was infectious, and despite her nerves, Tara found herself smiling.

Prithvi sitting in front beside the driver, glanced at her through the rearview mirror, his eyes soft and reassuring.

Dressed in his usual crisp white shirt and dhoti, he looked both relaxed and determined. When their eyes met, he gave her a slight nod, as if to say,

"Everything will be fine".

The car finally slowed down as they turned into a quiet, upscale neighborhood.

The car finally pulled up to the grand city bungalow. As the vehicle came to a halt, workers quickly began unloading the luggage.

Prithvi, standing beside the another car usually carrying the luggage, directed their efforts with practiced ease, ensuring everything was handled with care.

Meanwhile, Tara picked up Manik, cradling him in her arms as they began to explore their new home.

She carried him inside, passing through the spacious ground floor with its elegant furnishings and inviting ambiance.

Their exploration soon led them upstairs, where Tara pushed open a door to reveal the terrace.

It was a charming space adorned with vibrant flower plants in full bloom, their colors vivid under the clear blue sky.

Tara set Manik down, letting him wander among the plants as he marveled at the view.

From their vantage point, Manik spotted Prithvi still working downstairs. With excitement, he waved his small immature hand vigorously.

"Baba! Look here !"

Prithvi glanced up and smiled, his eyes catching sight of Manik's enthusiastic gesture. He waved back, his expression filled with affection and pride.

The sight of his family exploring their new home brought a sense of fulfillment, making the long journey and effort worthwhile.

Tara stood beside Manik, she looked around the terrace, imagining the many moments they would share here as a family. The house was starting to feel like home.

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Night had fallen, bringing with it a serene calm over the vast house. The soft rustling of leaves outside and the distant hum of the city were the only sounds breaking the quiet.

Manik, exhausted from the long journey and thrilled by the new house's endless exploration, had fallen into a deep sleep right after his meal.

In the spacious bedroom, Prithvi stood by the open wardrobe, meticulously unpacking their clothes.

His broad shoulders moved as he folded each item carefully, the soft cotton of his kurta brushing against his skin as he worked.

The faint light from the bedside lamp cast a warm glow over the room, making his shadow stretch along the floor.

Without a sound, Tara stepped in from the next room where she had just put Manik to sleep.

Her eyes softened at the sight of Prithvi-focused, gentle, and completely unaware of her presence. A playful smile tugged at her lips as she quietly approached him from behind.

Before Prithvi could realize, she slid her arms around his waist, pressing her body lightly against his back.

The heat from his skin instantly warmed her cheek as she rested her head against his bare back, sighing contentedly.

Prithvi's hands paused mid-air, a small smile playing on his lips as he looked down at her arms encircling him. "Has Manik slept?" he asked softly, his voice a deep rumble that vibrated through her cheek.

"Ummhmm," Tara responded, her voice muffled slightly against his back. She nestled closer, enjoying the feeling of being held by him, though she was the one wrapping her arms around him.

Prithvi turned around slowly, carefully slipping out of her hold only to face her.

His eyes met hers, the playful glint in them unmistakable. He gently took her hands and brought them back around his waist, making her hold him tighter as he pulled her close, their bodies now pressed against each other.

"Thank you," Tara whispered, her voice barely above a breath as she gazed up at him.

Prithvi's lips curved into a teasing smile, the mischief in his eyes deepening.

"Hmm," he hummed, his voice taking on a husky, playful tone.

"Thank you?" he repeated, tilting his head slightly as he leaned in closer.

"No, my darling, 'thank you' won't work..." he whispered, his breath warm against her skin,

"I want something else... something I've been deprived of."

Tara blinked up at him, her eyes wide with a mixture of confusion and curiosity.

"What thing?" she asked, her tone soft but innocent, her brows furrowing as she tried to understand his teasing words.

Prithvi chuckled softly, shaking his head at her feigned innocence.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about,"

he murmured, his voice low and velvety. His hand reached up, brushing a loose strand of her hair behind her ear before he traced his finger lightly along her jawline.

Tara's lips parted slightly, but she still played along.

"Nooo," she whispered, her voice dragging out the word as she shook her head, pretending not to understand.

Prithvi smirked, leaning in even closer now. The tip of his nose brushed against hers, the softest of touches that sent shivers down her spine.

"Yes, my jaan," he breathed, his voice dropping to an intimate whisper,

"You know exactly what I want... that kiss you teased me, but never gave."

Tara's heart raced, the memory of that playful moment flooding back. She bit her lip, her cheeks flushing as she met his gaze, the teasing now turning into something more.

Prithvi's fingers grazed her chin, lifting her face slightly as his lips hovered just over hers, close enough for her to feel his breath but not yet touching.

"Don't think I forgot," he whispered, his voice deep, "Tonight, I'm taking my payback."

Prithvi's eyes darkened with desire as he caught the whisper of her protest, her soft

"Noo" barely leaving her lips. With one swift movement, he swept her off her feet, his strong arms cradling her against his chest.

Tara gasped, clinging to him instinctively, her heartbeat loud in her ears as he carried her to the bed.

Gently, yet firmly, he laid her down on the soft mattress, his body hovering above hers. The dim light in the room flickered, casting shadows on his face, intensifying the tension between them.

His voice dropped to a husky murmur as he leaned closer, the warmth of his breath ghosting over her skin.

"Yes, my jaan... Tonight, there's no one-neither Maa, nor the relatives. Manik is fast asleep in the other room," he whispered, his lips brushing the shell of her ear.

"What will my butterfly do now?"

Tara's breath hitched, her body responding to his closeness, but she bit her lip, shaking her head in protest, even though every part of her wanted to give in.

She could feel the weight of his gaze, burning into her, making her pulse race. Her hands gripped the fabric of his shawl, but still, she held back, her heart caught in the push and pull of desire and shyness.

Prithvi smirked, his eyes gleaming with mischief as he saw the conflict in her. But he wasn't going to make it easy. No, tonight was his turn to tease, to make her feel the very same longing she'd stirred in him.

His fingers trailed over her face, brushing the stray strands of her hair behind her ear, his thumb tracing the delicate curve of her lips.

"You remember, don't you?" he murmured, his voice dropping to a low growl as his lips hovered near hers.

"How you teased me that night... how you pulled me close, made me think you'd kiss me... and then you left me wanting."

Tara's eyes fluttered shut as his lips grazed her skin, just close enough to ignite her senses but never quite making contact.

Her breaths came quicker, her chest rising and falling with each teasing caress.

His lips skimmed over her jaw, her cheek, her neck-everywhere but her lips. He was tormenting her, just like she had done to him, and now the tables had turned.

"Umm..." she breathed, her voice barely audible, her body arching toward him in desperation.

She could feel the heat of his skin, his strong, bare chest brushing against her as he kept her pinned beneath him. But still, he didn't give her what she craved.

"Not yet," he growled softly, his lips dangerously close to hers, their breaths mingling in the charged air between them.

"You made me wait, Tara... you made me beg for it. Now it's your turn."

Tara's hands tightened around his shoulders, her mind clouded with need as his words sent a shiver down her spine.

His lips brushed her ear, barely a whisper of a touch, and she whimpered, her body trembling beneath him.

"Tonight, I'm in control," he rasped, his lips finally ghosting over hers, so close yet still not touching.

He could feel her squirm, her resistance crumbling with every passing second, her soft gasps and desperate movements betraying her desire.

"Tell me what you want," he whispered, his lips hovering a breath away from hers, his voice thick with desire.

"Say it, Tara..."

Tara's breath hitched, her heart pounding wildly in her chest as her fingers lightly trembled against his skin.

She had never felt this exposed, this vulnerable-yet the intensity of the moment was undeniable. His gaze burned into her, urging her to surrender, to let go of the shyness that held her back.

Her lips parted, the words lingering on the tip of her tongue as she looked up into his smoldering eyes.

She felt the overwhelming pull of him-his scent, his warmth, the way his strong body hovered over her, making her feel protected yet lost in him. Her cheeks flushed deeply, but she couldn't hold back any longer.

"I... I want you to kiss me," she whispered, her voice barely audible as she looked away, her vulnerability exposed completely.

Prithvi's lips curled into a slow, teasing smile, his hand gently cupping her cheek and guiding her gaze back to him.

"Oh, my butterfly... I knew you wanted it," he murmured, his voice low and thick with satisfaction.

"But say it again. I want to hear it properly."

Tara's heart raced as his thumb lightly brushed over her trembling lower lip, her breath hitching in her throat.

She was desperate for his kiss now, aching for the touch she had tried to deny herself.

"Kiss me..." she breathed out, her eyes pleading with him.

Prithvi's gaze softened with affection, but the teasing glint in his eyes remained.

"That's my girl," he whispered, his lips barely grazing hers-just enough for her to feel the electric spark of his touch.

But instead of kissing her fully, he pulled back slightly, his lips teasing her once more, hovering over hers as she whimpered softly.

"Please..." she murmured, her hands clutching his arms, desperate for him now.

"You teased me last time, remember?" Prithvi's voice was a husky whisper, his breath fanning her lips.

"Made me wait... Now it's your turn, my love..."

Her fingers tightened against him, her body arching instinctively toward his as the tension between them thickened. She couldn't stand it any longer.

"Please..." she begged softly, her voice shaking with longing.

Prithvi's playful smirk disappeared as he finally gave in, pressing his lips to hers in a deep, searing kiss.

Tara felt the heat of his desire as his mouth claimed hers, his kiss urgent, possessive. She melted into him, her entire body surrendering to the intensity.

His hands gripped her waist, pulling her closer as though he couldn't get enough of her. Tara's fingers instinctively threaded through his hair, holding him to her, her body tingling from the contact.

Just when she thought she couldn't take any more, Prithvi bit down gently on her lower lip, teasing her once again, pulling away slightly with a smirk.

The sharp, pleasurable sting made her gasp softly, her eyes fluttering open, but the sudden loss of contact made her ache for more.But Tara wasn't done.

Without hesitation, she clutched his hair tightly, her grip almost desperate, and pulled him back to her. With a newfound boldness, she smashed her lips against his, surprising him with her intensity.

This time, she kissed him deeply, taking control, her lips moving hungrily against his, leaving him no room to tease her any further.

Prithvi responded immediately, his hands tightening on her waist as the kiss grew more passionate, their breath mingling as they became lost in each other.

Tara's heart pounded wildly in her chest, and she felt a surge of triumph in the way she had taken him by surprise, their lips dancing in perfect, fiery sync.

"That's what I've been waiting for, my butterfly," he whispered against her lips, his eyes full of love and desire.

Tara smiled softly, her vulnerability now a distant memory as she nestled closer into his arms, knowing she was exactly where she belonged.

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It was a calm and beautiful morning. The golden sunlight filtered through the small windows of their new house, casting a warm glow over the room. Tara sat on her knees, carefully placing the fresh marigold flowers at the feet of the Shiv-Parvati idol.

The smell of dhuni lingered in the air, creating a serene atmosphere. Prithvi sat behind her, his broad shoulders relaxed as he expertly crafted small flower garlands.

Manik, nestled comfortably in his father's lap, was in his own little world, toying with a small flower he had picked from the basket.

The boy had wedged the delicate flower between his toes, giggling as he wiggled them. His bright eyes were filled with innocence and wonder, a smile tugging at his lips as he looked up at his father.

"Baba, why does Shiv Ji like snakes? I don't like snakes, they're scary," Manik said, his voice soft but curious. He fidgeted with the flower, still playfully twirling it with his toes.

Prithvi smiled, his heart warmed by his son's endless questions.

"Shiv Ji isn't afraid of anything, son. He keeps the snake with him because it shows his power over all things, even the most dangerous creatures."

Manik's face scrunched up in thought, trying to understand this larger-than-life idea.

"But... why not a lion? Wouldn't that be better?" he asked, glancing down at the flower between his toes, now completely absorbed in his own logic.

Tara smiled softly as she listened to the exchange, the peaceful chatter of her family wrapping her in a cocoon of comfort.

But just as she placed another flower before the idol, Manik's voice broke off, replaced by a sudden, sharp cough.At first, it seemed like nothing. Just a child coughing.

But then it came again-harder, more violent.Tara froze, her heart skipping a beat. She turned around, just in time to see Manik.

Prithvi's hands immediately tightened around the boy, and then before they could comprehend what was happening Manik coughed again, this time BLOOD splattering from his mouth.

Tara's breath caught in her throat as the bright red stains splattered across her saree pallu and Prithvi's dhoti.

"Manik?" Prithvi whispered, his voice filled with sudden dread.Manik's little body convulsed again, another gush of blood leaving his lips, staining his father's arms. Tara's scream shattered the peaceful morning.

"Manik!" Her heart raced as she dropped to her knees beside them, her hands shaking uncontrollably as she reached for him.

" What's happening to him?!" Tara's voice cracked with panic as she saw the blood running from their son's mouth.

Her fingers brushed against his cheeks, desperate to comfort him, but Manik's face had already grown pale, his small eyes fluttering closed as his body sagged weakly in Prithvi's arms.

Prithvi's pulse quickened, his mind clouded with terror. He looked down at his son, his hands trembling as he tried to keep him steady.

"Manik, stay with us!" he shouted, his voice tight with fear.

The servants, hearing Tara's frantic cries, rushed in.

"Get the jeep ready! Now!" Prithvi roared, his voice breaking under the weight of his desperation.

Tara sobbed uncontrollably, holding onto Manik's tiny immature hand as if willing him to stay with her, her tears falling onto his cheeks.

Manik's small chest rose and fell with strained breaths, each one weaker than the last. He slumped further into Prithvi's arms, his consciousness slipping away.

"Do something!" Tara pleaded through her tears, her voice trembling as she tried to steady her shaking hands.

Prithvi stood up, cradling Manik close to his chest. "We're going to the hospital," he muttered under his breath, though panic gripped him like a vice. He rushed toward the door, every second feeling like a lifetime.The servants had already readied the jeep.

Prithvi climbed into the driver's seat, but as soon as the engine roared to life, Tara reached out for Manik, pulling him gently into her lap.

"Please, drive faster!" she cried, her voice breaking as she pressed her cheek against Manik's cold forehead.

Prithvi's knuckles whitened as he gripped the steering wheel. His heart hammered in his chest, every beat a countdown.

He glanced at Manik through the rearview mirror, his blood running cold at the sight of their son lying motionless in Tara's arms.

Manik's small hand slipped out of Tara's grasp, hanging limply at his side.

"No... no... please!" Tara sobbed, shaking him gently, her breath hitching in her throat.

"Manik, please, wake up! We're almost there, sona... we're almost there!"

The road blurred as Prithvi pushed the jeep harder, his foot pressing down on the accelerator with force. He could hear Tara's cries behind him, each one tearing into him like a knife.

His heart ached, the weight of the moment suffocating him. He couldn't lose Manik. Not now. Not like this.Tara's tears drenched Manik's shirt as she held him close, whispering to him desperately.

"Just hold on, my baby, just a little longer. We're almost there..." But Manik's breathing had become shallow, his small body limp in her arms.

Prithvi drove like a madman through the dirt roads, the wind whipping around them as the jeep bounced over the rough terrain. The world outside was a blur, but all that mattered was getting to the hospital.

"Drive faster Please!" Tara cried again, clutching Manik tighter to her chest as though sheer will alone could keep him alive.

Finally, they screeched to a halt in front of the hospital. Prithvi didn't even wait for the jeep to fully stop.

He bolted out, rushing to Tara's side and scooping Manik into his arms once more. The boy was eerily still, his pale face a haunting contrast to the blood still staining his lips.

"Help! Someone help my son!" Prithvi's voice thundered through the hospital corridor as he sprinted inside, his legs moving as fast as they could carry him.

Doctors and nurses rushed forward, their faces grim as they saw the child's condition.

A gurney was brought out immediately. Prithvi laid Manik down, his hands hovering over the boy, unable to let go but knowing he had to.

Tara stood beside him, her entire body shaking as the nurses wheeled Manik away.

The doctors quickly took Manik into the emergency room, leaving Prithvi and Tara waiting outside with their hearts in their throats.

Tara pressed her hands to her chest, silently pleading with God for her son's life. Prithvi stood beside her, tense, fists clenched at his sides, his eyes never leaving the door where they had taken Manik. Minutes felt like hours.

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The sterile white walls of the hospital felt like they were closing in on Tara as she sat in the waiting room. Prithvi stood by the door, unable to sit still, his hands clenched tightly behind his back.

The air between them was thick with unspoken fears.Tara's heart pounded in her chest as images of Manik coughing up blood replayed in her mind.

Every second that passed without an answer felt like a lifetime. She couldn't stop the tears that spilled down her cheeks, her hands gripping her saree, twisting the fabric anxiously.

Prithvi paced back and forth, running his hands through his hair. The sound of footsteps echoed down the hallway, but no doctor yet. His mind swirled with dark thoughts, but he forced them down, refusing to acknowledge the worst possibilities.

"Why is this happening to him? What did we do wrong?"

Tara whispered, her voice trembling as she clutched her saree tighter, trying to contain the storm inside her. Her heart raced with fear and uncertainty.

"Tara..." he started, his voice strained, trying to offer some comfort, but she barely looked up at him. The silence between them felt unbearable, yet words escaped them both.

The sound of a door creaking open made them both freeze. Dr. Mehra stepped into the waiting room, his face grim but professional. Tara immediately shot up from her seat, rushing over to the doctor.

Tara immediately stood up, her eyes wide with fear.

"Doctor... what's happening to him? Why was he coughing up blood?"

The doctor's expression was somber.

"Manik has tuberculosis-TB. It's a severe case, and the infection has progressed to the point where it's affecting his lungs, causing internal bleeding. That's why he was coughing up blood."

Tara's legs almost gave way beneath her. She gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, eyes welling up with tears. "TB? How... how did this happen?"

The doctor continued, "Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that often affects the lungs, and it's possible Manik contracted it months ago without showing symptoms until now. The bleeding from his lungs is serious, and we need to start immediate treatment. But right now, what he needs most urgently is a blood transfusion to stabilize him."

" Will he be alright? What can be done?" asked Tara desperately.

Dr. Mehra nodded.

"There's a solution, but he needs an urgent blood transfusion. Manik's condition is delicate, and we need to act quickly. We'll run the blood type tests, but with children, it's usually the father's blood that is the closest match. Mr. Thakur, we'll need your blood immediately."

Prithvi went still, his face paling as the doctor's words hung in the air. Tara looked at him, expecting him to rush forward, but he remained frozen, his body tense.

Prithvi took a step back, his throat tightening.

"I... I can't give my blood," Prithvi's voice wavered, barely able to hold Tara's gaze.

Tara blinked, her mind struggling to process the words. Panic gripped her, her heart racing as she stepped closer, eyes wide with disbelief.

"What do you mean, you can't give your blood?" Her voice cracked, rising in desperation.

"He's your son! He needs you!"

Prithvi stood frozen, his lips pressed into a thin line, his jaw clenched. The silence between them was suffocating, a weight pressing down on Tara's chest.

"Why are you hesitating?" Tara's voice grew frantic, her hands trembling.

"Manik is coughing up blood! He's slipping away right in front of us! How can you just stand there and-"

"Tara, it's not that simple," Prithvi interrupted, his voice strained, but the anguish in his eyes only fueled Tara's panic.

"Not that simple?" Tara nearly screamed, her heart pounding against her ribs. "He's your son! You're his father! His life depends on you, and you're telling me it's not that simple?"

Prithvi's hands balled into fists, his face contorted in pain as he took a step back. The distance between them felt like miles.

"Tara, I... I'm not a match."

Her breath caught in her throat. "What do you mean you're not a match? Your blood should-"

"I'M NOT HIS FATHER!!"

Prithvi roared, the words erupting from him like a dam breaking, his face flushed with the weight of the secret he'd held for so long.

His voice echoed through the hospital corridor, and the admission hung between them, cold and final.

The words hit Tara like a physical blow, and for a moment, she couldn't breathe. Her mind raced to comprehend, her heart beating wildly in her chest.

Prithvi's secret, the truth he had buried for so long, now stood between them like an unmovable wall.

Tara's knees threatened to buckle, her lips quivered, but before she could speak again, a nurse rushed out of the room, her face pale.

"Mrs. Thakur, we need you inside. Now."

Tara's head snapped toward the nurse, her body trembling. She glanced back at Prithvi, her eyes filled with shock and betrayal.

"I... I'll deal with this later," she whispered, her voice hollow as she turned and followed the nurse inside, leaving Prithvi alone in the hallway with his guilt.

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𝙏𝙊 𝘽𝙀 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙏𝙄𝙉𝙐𝙀𝘿....