In Bansal Family:

The tiny storeroom was nothing more than a neglected corner of the house. It's cold cement floor served as a bed, while dusty boxes and broken household items surrounded every side of the cramped space. There was no fan to ease the suffocating heat, no mattress to soften the hard floor, and not even a thin blanket to provide comfort. The air inside felt heavy, making it difficult to breathe, yet this was where Tanvisha had been forced to spend her nights.

Curled tightly into herself, she slept in an almost defensive posture, as though her body had learned to protect itself even in unconsciousness. Her knees were drawn close to her chest, her arms wrapped around herself, and every muscle remained tense despite being asleep. Even in her dreams, there was no peace. Fear had become such a constant companion that it refused to leave her, even when her eyes were closed.

Suddenly, the silence of the room shook.

The door burst open with a deafening bang, striking the wall so forcefully that the entire room echoed with the sound.

Tanvisha jolted awake in terror. Her frightened eyes flew toward the entrance, her heart pounding violently against her chest. For a brief second, she struggled to understand what had happened, but the moment her gaze landed on the woman standing in the doorway, every bit of sleep disappeared.

Palak Bansal stood there with a broom tightly clutched in her hand. Her face burned with anger, and her eyes held not even the slightest trace of sympathy.

Tanvisha instinctively shrank backward, her lips trembling as she gulped nervously before whispering: "Chachi...”

Without waiting another second, Palak marched toward her and began striking her repeatedly with the broom. Every blow landed mercilessly on her fragile body while her furious voice echoed through the small room.

Palak: “You, useless girl... kisne tuje yaha sone k permission di, haan?”
(You useless girl... Who gave you permission to sleep here, huh?)

The broom continued raining down on her arms, back, and shoulders. Tanvisha cried out in pain, tears streaming uncontrollably down her cheeks, but she neither defended herself nor tried to run away. Years of abuse had taught her that resistance only invited harsher punishment. She simply curled herself tighter, silently enduring every strike while her body trembled violently.

After venting her anger, Palak glared at her one final time before storming out of the storeroom, leaving behind only silence broken by Tanvisha's muffled sobs.

A few moments later, soft footsteps approached the doorway.

Little Rohan, who had been passing by, noticed his sister crying. The innocent child immediately rushed inside without a second thought and wrapped his tiny arms around her as gently as he could.

Rohan: “Tanvisha didi, kyu ro rhe ho? Muje btao, m help krunga.”
(Tanvisha Didi, why are you crying? Tell me. I'll help you.)

Yes, the girl was Tanvisha.

She was only a young girl whose life had become a never-ending cycle of hunger, insults, and beatings at the hands of her aunt, Palak Bansal. Love was something she had almost forgotten, yet the innocent affection of her younger brother remained the only light in her otherwise dark world.

Despite the burning pain spreading across her body, she forced a small smile on her tear-stained face. Carefully raising her trembling hand, she gently caressed Rohan's back, trying to comfort him instead of herself.

Tanvisha: “Tu kyu ro rha h Rohan? Dekh m thk hu na....”
(Why are you crying, Rohan? Look, I'm fine, aren't I?)

Rohan's innocent eyes wandered toward her hands. The fresh red welts and swelling marks left by the broom were impossible to hide. His little face immediately filled with worry and sadness.

Rohan: “Didi, mujse bhi jhuth bol rhe ho dekho kitne nishan h. Ap chlo, doctor k pass chlte h.”
(Didi, you're lying to me too. Look how many marks you have. Come on, let's go to the doctor.)

The mere mention of a doctor sent a wave of fear through Tanvisha's body. She visibly shivered before hurriedly shaking her head. Hospitals and doctors had always terrified her, perhaps because pain had always followed wherever adults took her.

Tanvisha: “Nhi, tuje pta h muje drr lgta h. M abhi ghee lga lungi toh thk ho jaega. Tu jakr soja chl.”
(No, you know I'm scared. I'll apply some ghee and it'll be fine. You go and sleep now.)

Rohan looked at her with an unimpressed expression. Although he was much younger, he could clearly see through her forced smile. His tiny heart refused to believe that everything was fine.

Rohan: “Abhi ja rha hu pr dekhna kl lekr jaunga apko doctor k. Drr lgta h toh kya hua, m toh hu apne pass.”
(I'm going now, but tomorrow I'll definitely take you to the doctor. So, what if you're scared? I'm here with you.)

His innocent determination brought another faint smile to Tanvisha's face. She knew he truly wanted to protect her, but he was still just a child. Gently nodding to reassure him, she watched as he slowly walked back toward his room.

Once she was alone again, the silence returned.

Tanvisha slowly lifted her eyes toward the small window near the ceiling through which a few stars were visible in the dark night sky. Tears once again blurred her vision as she stared at them for a long moment before whispering softly.

Tanvisha: “Bhagwan, aisi zindagi deni thi toh mtt hi dete. Na khane ko dete h, na hi sone... muje ab lgta h ki shadi k baad bhi meri zindagi aisi hi rehne vali h kya.....”
(God, if You were going to give me a life like this, you shouldn't have given me life at all. They neither give me enough food nor let me sleep... I wonder if my life will remain the same even after marriage...)

Her voice was barely audible, almost as though she feared even God might ignore her prayers.

After sitting there for several minutes, she slowly gathered enough strength to stand. Every movement sent sharp pain through her bruised body, yet she made no sound. Holding onto the wall for support, she quietly stepped out of the storeroom and walked toward the kitchen with slow, careful, almost soundless footsteps so no one would notice her.

She opened the small container of ghee with trembling fingers and gently applied it over the swollen marks on her hands. The moment the ghee touched her wounds, a painful sting shot through her body. Her lips quivered as she struggled to suppress the cries, threatening to escape. She bit down on her lower lip, refusing to let even a single loud sound leave her mouth. Tears rolled silently down her cheeks, falling onto her injured hands, but she continued applying the ghee until every visible wound had been covered.

Once she was done, she quietly closed the container and carefully returned everything to its place, so no one would suspect she had touched anything.

With exhausted steps, she walked back to the storeroom. The same cold floor welcomed her again. She lay down in the same curled position, hugging herself tightly as though trying to shield herself from the cruelty surrounding her. Her eyes remained fixed on the darkness above for several moments before exhaustion finally overcame the pain, and she slowly drifted back to another restless sleep.

Meanwhile In Airan Villa:

Inside the peaceful bedroom, Takshvi slept soundly, completely unaware of everything happening behind her back. The soft curtains swayed gently with the breeze coming through the slightly open window, and the calmness surrounding her was a sharp contrast to the lively chaos taking place outside in the lawn.

The bright morning sun spread a golden glow across the garden where Yuvaan and Anish were busy searching through the colorful flower beds. Both brothers bent repeatedly, examining every plant as if they had been assigned the most difficult mission of their lives. A few feet away, their little princess, Trisha, sat comfortably on a wooden bench with her legs swinging happily. She looked completely relaxed, sipping her chocolate shake while watching the two men work for her with an amused smile dancing across her face.

Anish narrowed his eyes at the little girl before speaking with playful annoyance.

Anish: “Tiny pari, aap toh vaha jakr baith gyy ho jese maharani ho aur hum dono ko flowers dhundhne ma lga diya h.”
(Tiny Pari, you've gone and sat there like a queen while making the two of us search for flowers.)

Instead of feeling guilty, Trisha only burst into another fit of giggles. Slowly standing on the bench, she proudly looked at both of them before replying.

Trisha: “Chachu, apne hi toh kaha tha ki game khelte h. Toh ab muje sare trh k flowers lakr do.”
(Chachu, you were the one who suggested we play a game. So now bring me all kinds of flowers.)

Yuvaan couldn't stop the amused smirk spreading across his face as he glanced toward his younger brother.

Yuvaan: “Beta, ab tu kisi k hath aaya h. Ab ayga maza.”
(Now you've fallen into someone's hands. This is going to be fun.)

Anish dramatically rolled his eyes before continuing his search through the garden.

Anish: “Phool dhundho vrna apki Isha apko bhi nhi bkshegi.”
(Keep searching for flowers, otherwise your Isha won't spare you either.)

The moment Isha's name was connected with a possible complaint, Yuvaan instinctively gulped. He immediately bent down again and started searching for flowers with even greater dedication, making Anish suppress a laugh at how quickly his elder brother surrendered.

Several minutes later, after collecting flowers of different colors and shapes, both brothers finally walked toward their little princess with tired sighs. Stretching their hands forward, they proudly displayed their collection.

Yuvaan and Anish: “Y lo, ab toh thk h.”
(Here you go. Is it good enough now?)

Trisha accepted every flower with utmost seriousness. Like a tiny judge examining evidence, she carefully observed each one before finally giving her verdict.

Trisha: “Thk hi h. Abhi toh kaam chla lungi. Kl acche se aur dhundhna.”
(They're okay. I'll manage with these for now. Tomorrow, find better ones.)

For a second, both brothers simply stared at her in complete disbelief. Their eyes widened before they slowly looked at each other. A mischievous smile appeared on both their faces at the exact same moment.

Without warning, Anish carefully took the chocolate shake's sipper from her tiny hands while Yuvaan swiftly lifted her into his arms.

The sudden action made Trisha gasp in surprise.

Trisha: “Papa, mera shake....”
(Papa, my shake...)

Yuvaan narrowed his eyes while trying his best to appear strict despite the smile threatening to escape.

Yuvaan: “Betaji, jb apko pta h apki mumma chocoalate sirf week ma ek baar allow krti h fr bhi y apka third time hogya h. Upper se aap hum dono ko preshan kr rhe ho, haina?”
(Young lady, when you know your Mumma allows chocolate only once a week, this is already your third time. And on top of that, you're making both of us work so hard, aren't you?)

Trisha simply giggled before wrapping both her tiny arms around his neck and hiding her face in his shoulder, fully aware that this innocent act melted her father's heart every single time.

Watching the scene, Anish let out an exaggerated sigh.

Anish: “Ab aap iss chalak lombi se pighal jaoge.”
(Now you're going to melt because of this clever little fox.)

Yuvaan's grin widened instantly.

Yuvaan: “Hnn...”

Before anyone could continue, a familiar voice echoed from behind them, making all three freeze in place.

Takshvi: “Kya ho rha h yaha?”
(What's going on here?)

The cheerful atmosphere vanished in an instant.

Trisha's little eyes grew round with horror as panic immediately took over her face.

Trisha: “Mrr gyy...”
(I'm doomed...)

Yuvaan and Anish exchanged alarmed glances before hurriedly hiding the sipper behind them. Unfortunately for both of them, Takshvi had already noticed everything.

She calmly walked toward them before stopping right in front of the trio. Crossing her arms over her chest, she looked at them with a stern expression that somehow managed to make even the fearless Yuvaan nervous.

Meanwhile, Trisha quietly buried herself deeper into Yuvaan's embrace while Anish awkwardly cleared his throat.

Anish: “Bhabhi maa, aap uth kyu gyy?”
(Bhabhi Maa, why did you wake up?)

Takshvi looked at him with obvious sarcasm.

Takshvi: “Ab mujse toh koi bol deta h ki akele mtt chdkr jaya kro pr jb khud ki bari aati h toh alg hi rules bnn jate h.”
(Everyone tells me not to go anywhere alone, but when it's your turn, suddenly there are different rules.)

Anish slowly turned toward Yuvaan as though silently asking him to handle the situation. Yuvaan nervously gulped before attempting to explain.

Yuvaan: “Shivi....”

Before he could continue, Takshvi interrupted him.

Takshvi: “Bhaiya se samne sunoge?”
(Will you say that in front of Bhaiya?)

Yuvaan immediately shook his head in surrender. Meanwhile, Anish shamelessly smiled.

Anish: “Muje koi issue nhi h. Ap continue kr skte ho.”
(I don't have any problems. You can continue.)

The innocent exchange made Trisha giggle despite the tense atmosphere. Yuvaan immediately shot a sharp glare toward Anish before lowering his voice near Trisha's ear.

Yuvaan: “Isha, papa k upper hss rhe ho na... mumma ko btau shake k bare ma....”
(Isha, you're laughing at Papa, aren't you? Should I tell Mumma about the shake...?)

Trisha's expression instantly changed. She hurriedly shook her head.

Trisha: “No no... sorry sorry.”

Before Yuvaan could respond, Takshvi looked directly at her daughter.

Takshvi: “And Isha, mene chocolates kitni baar allow ki h?”
(And Isha, how many times have I allowed chocolates?)

Holding Yuvaan tightly, Trisha hesitantly lifted her eyes toward her mother.

Trisha: “Mumma, 1.”

Takshvi softly hummed before pulling out the hidden sipper from Anish's hand, making him blink in defeat.

Takshvi: “Toh y toh shyd 1 se jyada h na....”
(Then this seems to be more than once, doesn't it?)

Trisha immediately lowered her tiny head.

Trisha: “Sorry mumma.”

Takshvi slowly shook her head before shifting her gaze toward both brothers.

Takshvi: “Mtlb y toh choti h, bcchi h pr aap dono toh bde ho aur I am damn sure y shake bhaiya apne hi bnaya hoga kyunki Vaan ko toh pta h inka m kya krti agr y bnate toh. Pr lgta h meri baat samjh hi nhi aati h iss ghr ma. Y jb dekho chocolates k peeche bhagti h, aur aap dono hrr demand fulfill krte ho. Kro ab jisko jo krna h... pr mujse baat mtt krne aa jana koi bhi.”
(She's little, she's a child, but both of you are adults. And I am absolutely sure Bhaiya made this shake because Vaan knows exactly what I'd do if he had made it. It seems no one in this house takes my words seriously. She's always running after chocolates, and both of you fulfill every single demand of hers. Fine, do whatever you want now... but don't come to me later.)

Without waiting for anyone's reply, she turned around and walked back toward the room.

The moment she disappeared; Trisha's eyes filled with tears. Hugging Yuvaan tightly, she began crying.

Trisha: “Papa, scchi m nhi khaungi chocolate.... mumma ko bolo na gussa na kree....”
(Papa, I really won't eat chocolate anymore... please tell Mumma not to be angry.)

Watching his daughter cry immediately softened Yuvaan's expression. Gently rocking her in his arms, he lovingly comforted her.

Yuvaan: “No baby, mumma bss care krti h isiliye dantkr gyi. M baat krunga unse dekhna vo apko maaf kr dengi.”
(No, baby. Mumma scolded you only because she cares about you. I'll talk to her—you'll see she'll forgive you.)

Trisha slowly looked up at him with watery eyes.

Trisha: “Promise?”

Yuvaan lovingly wiped away her tears before smiling.

Yuvaan: “Promise, pr rona nhi okay?”
(Promise. But no more crying, okay?)

Trisha quietly nodded.

Yuvaan then looked toward his younger brother.

Yuvaan: “Chote, ja jakr soja kl tuje hospital bhi jana h.”
(Chote, go and get some sleep. You must go to the hospital tomorrow.)

Anish respectfully nodded.

Anish: “Ji bhai.”

With one final glance toward them, Anish walked back to his room while Yuvaan carried Trisha inside. The little girl remained wrapped around him, refusing to loosen her grip even slightly.

Entering the bedroom, Yuvaan immediately noticed Takshvi standing alone on the balcony. Her back faced him as she silently looked outside.

He let out a quiet sigh before whispering gently to his daughter.

Yuvaan: “Baby, m mumma se baat krk aaya. Ap yhi baitho.”
(Baby, let me go talk to Mumma. You stay here.)

Trisha obediently nodded before sitting quietly on the bed.

Yuvaan slowly walked toward the balcony and stood beside Takshvi. She sensed his presence immediately but remained silent.

After waiting a few seconds, he finally spoke in a soft voice.

Yuvaan: “Shivi, itna gussa kyu? Ap toh gussa nhi krte ho aise...”
(Shivi, why are you so angry? You're usually not like this.)

The moment she turned toward him, all the strength she had been holding onto disappeared.

She stepped forward and hugged him tightly before breaking into quiet hiccups.

Takshvi: “Vaan, drr lgta h ki kahi meri jesi bimari usko na lgg jayy.... kahi chocolates usko harm na krne lge...”
(Vaan, I'm scared that she might end up with the same illness as mine... I'm scared chocolates might harm her...)

Yuvaan's heart ached, seeing her like this.

Without saying anything else, he gently rubbed her back while holding her close.

Yuvaan: “Shhh... rote nhi baccha. Dekho vo thk h na... kuch bhi nhi hoga humari Isha ko.... Rona bnd kriye aap.”
(Shhh... don't cry, my love. Look, she's perfectly fine... nothing will happen to our Isha. Please stop crying.)

Takshvi slowly nodded before looking toward Trisha, who sat quietly on the bed watching both with wide, innocent doe eyes.

Taking a deep breath, Takshvi softly spoke.

Takshvi: “M baat krti hu usse.”
(I'll talk to her.)

Yuvaan nodded, understandingly.

Yuvaan: “Hnn, but thoda aaram se. Vo ro chuki h pehle hi.”
(Yes, but be gentle. She's already cried enough.)

Takshvi smiled faintly before walking toward her daughter.

The moment Trisha saw her approaching; she immediately lowered her gaze.

A gentle smile spread across Takshvi's face.

Takshvi: “Mumma k pass nhi aana?”
(Won't you come to Mumma?)

Hearing those words, Trisha instantly looked up before glancing toward Yuvaan. He quietly nodded. That single nod was enough. A bright smile immediately returned to her little face as she rushed forward and tightly hugged Takshvi. Takshvi chuckled softly before embracing her just as lovingly. Resting her face against her mother, Trisha whispered innocently.

Trisha: “Sorry mumma... aaghe se only 1 chocolate.”
(Sorry, Mumma... from now on, only one chocolate.)

Takshvi smiled lovingly before kissing her forehead.

Takshvi: “Baby, mumma apko isiliye rokti h kyunki apki tbiyt khrb ho skti h. Fr chachu apko injection lga denge.”
(Baby, Mumma stops you because too much chocolate can make you sick. Then Chachu will have to give you an injection.)

The mere mention of an injection completely changed Trisha's expression. Her eyes widened in horror before she immediately ran toward Yuvaan and tightly hugged his legs.

Trisha: “Papa, nhi.... m good girl banungi pr chachu ko bolna ki injection nhi....”
(Papa, no... I'll be a good girl, but please tell Chachu not to give me an injection.)

Unable to stop himself from smiling, Yuvaan bent down and lifted her back into his arms.

Yuvaan: “Areee mera baby toh thk h na toh injection kyu lgega. M hu na... koi kuch nhi krega.”
(Hey, my baby is perfectly fine, so why would you need an injection? I'm here. No one will do anything to you.)

Feeling safe once again, Trisha rested comfortably against his chest.

Trisha: “Nind aa rhi h.”
(I'm feeling sleepy.)

Yuvaan smiled affectionately as she slowly closed her eyes in his embrace.

Carefully rocking her for a few moments, he waited until she had completely fallen asleep before gently laying her on the bed.

Takshvi quietly lay down on one side of their sleeping daughter, while Yuvaan settled on the other, protectively surrounding their little princess with all the love and warmth she could ever need. Within minutes, the room once again became peaceful. The earlier misunderstanding was replaced by the comforting silence of a family whose love always outweighed every disagreement.

Next Morning:

The morning at the Airan mansion was unusually peaceful. Warm rays of sunlight streamed through the large windows, filling every corner of the house with a gentle golden glow. The family slowly settled into their usual morning routine.

Inside their bedroom, Anish was getting ready for the day. Dressed neatly for work, he adjusted the sleeves of his shirt while collecting the files he needed for the hospital. In another part of the room, Takshvi stood patiently behind Trisha, gently combing her daughter's silky hair. Trisha sat quietly on the chair, occasionally making cute faces at herself in the mirror while her mother carefully tied her hair.

Meanwhile, Yuvaan stood near the balcony, engaged in an important phone call. His voice remained calm yet authoritative as he discussed business matters with the person on the other end. Even while talking, his eyes occasionally wandered toward his little family, and an unconscious smile appeared on his face at the comforting sight before him.

A few minutes later, everyone gathered in the dining room where breakfast had already been served. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air, yet despite the cheerful atmosphere, something felt different.

Takshvi noticed it almost immediately.

Concern immediately crossed Takshvi's face. She quietly got up from her chair and walked toward him.

Takshvi: “Kya hua bhaiya?”
(What happened, brother?)

Anish blinked rapidly as if pulled out of his thoughts. He quickly forced a smile that failed to reach his eyes.

Anish: “Kuch nhi bhabhi maa.”
(Nothing, Bhabhi Maa.)

Before Takshvi could question him further, Trisha noticed the sadness hidden behind her uncle's smile. Though she was still very young, she had an innocent ability to sense the emotions of those she loved.

Leaving her seat, she hurried toward Anish while Takshvi quietly returned to sit beside Yuvaan.

Looking at her uncle with sparkling eyes, Trisha spoke sweetly.

Trisha: “Chachu, muje bhi khilao.”
(Uncle, feed me too.)

The request instantly softened Anish's expression.

A genuine smile finally appeared on his face as he lovingly picked her up and settled her comfortably on his lap.

Anish: “Bilkul, meri tiny pari aaj chachu k hath se khaegi?”
(Of course. Will my tiny fairy eat from Uncle's hands today?)

Trisha nodded excitedly.

Trisha: “Hnn.”

Unable to resist her adorable expression, Anish gently kissed her cheek before taking a small bite of food and feeding it to her carefully.

Trisha happily opened her mouth and ate every bite without any complaints. After a few bites, she copied her uncle's actions. Taking tiny portions with complete concentration, she slowly fed him back, making sure he ate properly as well.

The sight warmed everyone's hearts.

Yuvaan and Takshvi exchanged meaningful glances before smiling at each other. Their daughter possessed an innocent magic that could effortlessly brighten even the darkest moods. Without realizing it herself, she had succeeded in making Anish smile genuinely once again.

By the time breakfast ended, both uncle and niece had finished eating together.

Anish gently adjusted a few strands of hair away from Trisha's face before smiling warmly.

Anish: “Okay, tiny pari ab aap school jao. Chachu apse sham ko milenge and fr hum masti krenge.”
(Okay, tiny fairy, now you should go to school. Uncle will meet you in the evening, and then we'll have lots of fun.)

Trisha smiled brightly and nodded.

Trisha: “Okay chachu.”

Soon afterward, everyone left for their respective destinations.

Yuvaan departed for work, Takshvi prepared to continue with her daily responsibilities, Trisha left for school, and Anish drove toward the hospital.

As soon as he entered the hospital building, several members of the staff greeted him respectfully. Known for his professionalism and humble nature, Anish acknowledged every greeting with a polite smile before making his way toward his cabin.

After placing his belongings on the desk and settling into his chair, he had barely opened a patient's file when a soft knock echoed on the cabin door.

Granting permission to enter, he looked up.

A teenage girl slowly entered the cabin accompanied by a younger boy. The girl's posture immediately caught his attention. She looked frightened, weak, and visibly uncomfortable, while the boy stayed close beside her as though trying to protect her.

Anish briefly observed them before his professional instincts focused on the visible injuries covering the girl's hands.

Anish: “Aap inhe bed pr baitha dijiye.”
(Please help her sit on the examination bed.)

The boy nodded immediately before gently turning toward his sister.

Rohan: “Didi chlo.”
(Sister, come.)

The girl hesitated nervously.

Tanvisha: “Please....”

The younger boy gave her a firm look, silently insisting.

Understanding she had no choice, Tanvisha slowly walked toward the examination bed and carefully sat down.

Anish wore his gloves before approaching them.

Anish: “What happened?”

Rohan instinctively looked toward his sister. Tanvisha quietly shook her head, refusing to answer. With a helpless sigh, the boy finally spoke.

Rohan: “Dr. I am Rohan Bansal and she is my elder sister-Tanvisha Bansal. Aaj subah y stairs se gir gyi toh y chot lg gyi inko.”
(Doctor, I am Rohan Bansal, and she is my elder sister, Tanvisha Bansal. This morning she fell from the stairs, and that's how she got these injuries.)

Anish's experienced eyes carefully examined the injury marks on her hands. His expression subtly changed.

The pattern of the bruises was too familiar. They did not resemble injuries from falling down the stairs. Looking directly at her, he spoke calmly:

Anish: “It’s not incidental.”

The simple statement made Tanvisha shiver. Fear instantly appeared in her eyes. Seeing her reaction, Rohan hurriedly interrupted:

Rohan: “Dr. please treat her. Didi nhi btana chahti.”
(Doctor, please treat her. My sister doesn't want to tell you.)

Anish looked at Tanvisha once again.

Her face was unusually pale, and an overwhelming sadness rested in her eyes. The emptiness on her face stirred something deep within him.

Suppressing his concern, he nodded gently.

Anish: “Okay, I will treat her. Aap bahar baith jaiye.”
(Okay, I will treat her. Please wait outside.)

Rohan looked at his sister reassuringly before stepping toward the door.

Rohan: “Didi, yhi hu. Darna nhi.”
(Sister, I'm right here. Don't be scared.)

Tanvisha gave a small nod, though inside her heart was pounding so loudly that she could barely hear anything else.

Once Rohan left the cabin, Anish quietly pulled the curtains around the examination area to provide her with privacy. Only then did he continue in a calm professional tone.

Anish: “Apko kaha kaha lgi h?”
(Where have you been injured?)

Still hesitant, Tanvisha answered quietly.

Tanvisha: “Hath aur paro pr.”
(On my hands and legs.)

Anish nodded before asking another important question.

Anish: “Back ya stomach pr toh nhi lgi na?”
(You weren't injured on your back or stomach, were you?)

Tanvisha immediately lowered her eyes without replying.

Her silence itself became the answer. Realizing she was uncomfortable, Anish softened his voice.

Anish: “Ap muje bta skte ho. M doctor hi hu, I promise kuch glt nhi krunga. And apko fr bhi hesitation h toh ek female doctor meri friend h, m usko bula leta hu.”
(You can tell me. I'm a doctor, and I promise I won't do anything inappropriate. And if you're still uncomfortable, I have a female doctor friend—I can call her.)

The sincerity in his voice gradually eased her nervousness.

After a brief pause, she finally spoke.

Tanvisha: “Bss thodi back pr lgi h. And aap hi kr dijiye.”
(Only a little on my back. And you can examine me.)

Anish nodded understandingly. With utmost care, he examined the injuries on her hands and legs before gently applying antiseptic cream over every wound. His movements were slow and cautious to avoid causing unnecessary pain. After finishing, he looked at her.

Anish: “Please, turn.”

Tanvisha tried to move but immediately winced in pain. Her body refused to cooperate. Seeing her struggle, Anish stopped her immediately.

Anish: “Wait, m apke bhai ko bula leta hu.”
(Wait, I'll call your brother.)

Without wasting another moment, he stepped outside and called Rohan back into the cabin. Looking toward him, he requested politely.

Anish: “Please aap inki turn hone ma help kr dijiye.”
(Please help her turn over.)

Rohan nodded immediately. Supporting his sister with extreme care, he slowly helped her turn onto her side while Anish carefully examined the injuries on her back. The marks there were even worse. His jaw tightened for a brief moment, but he maintained his professional composure and silently applied antiseptic cream over each wound with remarkable gentleness. Once he finished, he removed his gloves before writing a prescription. Handing it over to Rohan, he spoke calmly.

Anish: “M apko y cream likhkr de rha hu, ap ghr pr bhi lga dena. Jldi thk hone lgengi y.”
(I'm prescribing this cream. Apply it at home as well. These injuries will heal soon.)

Rohan accepted the prescription gratefully.

Rohan: “Thank you sir.”

Anish lightly shook his head.

Anish: “Don’t be. Y meri job h, ap inka dhyan rkhna. And Tanvisha aap, ap thoda khane peene pr dhyan dijiye vrna shyd apko admit hona pdd jaega agr y paleness thk nhi hoti h toh.”
(Don't be. It's my job. Please take good care of her. And Tanvisha, please pay attention to your food and nutrition, otherwise you may have to be admitted if this paleness doesn't improve.)

For the very first time since entering the cabin, Tanvisha becomes sad while Rohan says: Sir, she fears doctors.

Understanding the situation, Anish simply hummed in acknowledgment.

With the treatment completed and the prescribed medicines carefully explained, Rohan gently supported his sister and slowly walked her out of the cabin. Every step she took reflected the pain she was trying so desperately to hide, while Rohan remained silently beside her, offering nothing but quiet support. As the door closed behind them, an unusual silence settled inside the cabin.

Anish remained standing in the same place for several long moments. His gaze unconsciously stayed fixed on the closed door as though his mind had refused to move on with the rest of the day. Throughout his years as a doctor, he had treated countless patients. He had witnessed unbearable pain, heartbreaking losses, and unimaginable suffering, yet never had someone's silent wounds affected him the way they had today.

Slowly exhaling, he walked back toward his chair and sat down, resting his elbows on the table while absentmindedly rubbing his forehead. His thoughts refused to leave the frightened young woman behind.

He murmurs: "Aaj tk kitne hi patients ko treat kr chuka hu pr jo aaj mehsoos kiya, vo toh kbhi kiya hi nhi. Inka drd muje kyu mehsoos ho rha tha... aur inki chot bta rhi h ki inki kisi na mara h pr y apne drr k aaghe chuppi ko kr rhi h.”
(Till today, I've treated countless patients, but what I felt today... I've never experienced it before. Why could I feel her pain... and her injuries clearly say that someone has hurt her, yet she's choosing silence because of her fear.)

His fingers unconsciously tapped against the table. The fear hidden in her trembling eyes replayed repeatedly inside his mind. It was not merely the bruises that disturbed him; it was the silence with which she carried them. Being a doctor had taught him to recognize injuries, but today those wounds had spoken a language that medicine alone could not heal.

Unable to focus on the files lying before him, he picked up his phone without another thought and dialed Takshvi's number.

At the same time, Takshvi was driving toward the hospital with Trisha seated beside her. The little girl remained unusually quiet, occasionally looking down at the scrape on her tiny knee while trying to act brave despite the discomfort.

The phone connected through the car's hands-free system.

Takshvi picks up the call and says: "Ji bhaiya.”

Anish hesitates: "Bhabhi maa, milna tha apse.”
(Bhabhi Maa, I wanted to meet you.)

Takshvi nods: "Hnn, bhaiya m hospital hi aa rhi hu. Apki bhatiji chot lgvai h aaj.”
(Yes, brother. I'm already coming to the hospital. Your niece got herself hurt today.)

The moment those words reached him, every other thought vanished.

Anish’s eyes widened in worry: "Jldi aao aap. M apko gate pr hi mil jaunga.”
(Please come quickly. I'll meet you right at the gate.)

Takshvi hums and ends the call.

Without wasting another second, Anish immediately left his cabin and hurried downstairs toward the hospital entrance. His heartbeat had unconsciously quickened. Although he knew it was probably nothing serious, the mere thought of his little niece being hurt made him restless.

Only a few minutes later, Takshvi's car entered the hospital parking area before coming to a gentle stop. Before she could even switch off the engine properly, Anish had already reached the vehicle.

The rear door opened, revealing Trisha quietly staring at her scraped knee. Her usual cheerful expression had been replaced by a tiny pout as she examined the reddish scratch.

Without saying another word, Anish carefully lifted her into his arms as though she were made of glass.

Anish’s jaw clenched as he picked her up in his arms while asking: "Tiny pari, kya kr rhe th jo chot lgi?”
(Little fairy, what were you doing that you got hurt?)

Takshvi interrupts: "Ground ma ldkr aai h kyunki kisi na isko y keh diya ki uske pass world k best chachu h. Ab y h toh apki bhakt, kr dii maar peet.”
(She got into a fight on the playground because someone told her she has the world's best uncle. Since she's your biggest fan, she started fighting.)

Hearing that, despite his concern, the corners of Anish's lips twitched ever so slightly. He looked at the little girl in his arms, who immediately lowered her gaze.

Anish narrows his eyes at her as she pouts: "Ab aap mtt dantna, mumma na dant diya h.”
(Now please don't scold me. Mom has already scolded me.)

Anish sighs: "Pehle aap chlo mere sath fr btaunga apko toh. Bhabhi maa, aap reception pr form fill kr dena, tb tk m dekhta hu.”
(First, come with me, then I'll tell you. Bhabhi Maa, please fill out the form at reception. I'll take a look at her meanwhile.)

Takshvi nods while Anish carries Trisha all the way toward his cabin. Despite insisting she could walk, he refused to let her put any pressure on her injured leg.

The familiar surroundings of the hospital suddenly felt much scarier to the little girl.

As soon as he placed her gently on the examination bed, she looked around nervously before looking back at him.

Trisha gulps in fear: "Chachu, itni bhi nhi lgi... ghr chlte h...”
(Uncle, it's not that bad... let's go home...)

Knowing exactly what was going through her mind, Anish pretended not to notice her growing panic.

He calmly began arranging cotton, antiseptic solution, gauze, ointment and bandages on the tray while making sure every movement appeared relaxed.

Anish makes her sit on the bed while replying: "Agr mujse dant nhi khani h na toh aaram se baith jao vrna mumma toh kya dant ti h, jo m dantunga.”
(If you don't want to get scolded by me, then sit quietly. Otherwise, you'll find out what a real scolding is.)

Trisha huffs: "Choti hu toh sb apni mrzi chlate h.”
(Just because I'm little, everyone bosses me around.)

Anish replies while continuously diverting her mind from collecting the equipment: "Hnn hnn, hum toh torture kr rhe h na...”
(Yes, yes... we're the ones torturing you, aren't we?)

Trisha giggles: "Apko pta toh chl gya, ab y baat mumma ko bhi btana.”
(Now that you've figured it out, make sure you tell Mom too.)

The sound of her laughter brought a faint smile to his face. At least for a moment, she had forgotten about the wound.

Anish playfully glares at her: "Pdhai krne jate ho ya y sb seekhne ki kisko kese bolna h, haan?”
(Do you go to school to study or to learn how to answer everyone back?)

Trisha giggles: "Ab jiske pass apke jese funny chachu ho usko toh y sb aata hi hoga na...”
(Well, someone who has a funny uncle like you is bound to learn all this...)

Shaking his head with amused affection, Anish reached into one of the cabinets and took out a soft rabbit stuffed toy that was often kept in the pediatric section for little patients.

He gently placed it in her hands: "Ab aap isko hug krlo, m jldi se clean kr dunga.”
(Now hug this tightly, and I'll clean it up quickly.)

The moment she realized the cleaning was about to begin; all her earlier confidence disappeared.

Trisha becomes nervous: "Chachu...”

Anish’s gaze softens as he cups her face and replies: "Tiny pari, chachu bht slowly krenge... ap mujse baat krte rho.”
(Little fairy, Uncle will do it very slowly... you just keep talking to me.)

Trisha hesitantly nodded before wrapping both arms tightly around the rabbit's toy, squeezing it against herself as though gathering courage. Very carefully, Anish soaked the cotton with antiseptics before slowly cleaning the scrape. The moment the liquid touched the wound, the familiar burning sensation made her body stiff.

Trisha hesitantly nods and hugs the stuffed toy tightly while Anish carefully yet slowly cleans the wound with antiseptic, making her wince in pain. “Chachu, ni...”
(Uncle, no...)

Anish gently held her knee steady so she wouldn't accidentally pull away: "No baby, bss 2 seconds.... dekho bss hone vala h...”
(No, baby. Just two seconds... look, it's almost done...)

Despite his careful movements, the sting became too much for the little girl.

Trisha bursts into tears and complains: "Apne kaha tha slowly kroge... m papa ko bolungi...”
(You said you'd do it slowly... I'm going to tell Papa...)

Almost immediately, Takshvi entered the cabin after completing the paperwork. The sight of Trisha crying made her heart melt.

Without wasting a second, she hurried toward her daughter and wrapped her protectively in her embrace while Anish quietly finished dressing the wound.

Takshvi: "Areee, mera baby toh strong h na.... apne muje kaha tha ki chachu jese bolenge aap vesa kroge... fr rona kyu h...”
(Oh my baby is strong, isn't she? You told me you'd do exactly as Uncle said... then why are you crying?)

Trisha hugs her: "Mumma, pain...”

Takshvi gently stroked her hair, kissing her forehead with endless patience.

Takshvi hums softly: "Hnn meri jaan, dekho bss hogya...”
(Yes, my dear... look, it's all done now...)

By then, Anish had already secured the final bandage around her knee. Removing the used cotton from the tray, he looked toward his tiny patient with reassuring eyes.

Trisha looks at Anish, who is looking at her with soft eyes. “Dekho na hogya... shant ho jao...”
(See? It's finished now... calm down...)

Trisha complains: "Bht drd hua...”
(It hurts a lot...)

A guilty smile appeared on Anish's face. No matter how many children he treated every day, seeing his own niece cry always made him feel as though he had somehow failed her.

After removing his gloves and sanitizing his hands, he opened his arms toward her: "Come...”

Without another word, Trisha slowly leaned into his embrace. He carefully lifted her into his arms, resting her tiny head against his shoulder while gently rubbing soothing circles across her back.

Anish says: "Sorry tiny pari, but nhi krta toh aur pain hota na... abhi aap aaram kro ab kuch nhi...”
(Sorry, little fairy, but if I hadn't done it, it would've hurt even more. Now just rest. Nothing else will happen.)

Still sniffling lightly, she looked up at him with hopeful eyes.

Trisha asks: "No injection?”

Anish pecks her nose: "No injection.”

Relief immediately spread across her little face.

Trisha simply nodded before wrapping both arms around his neck once again. Feeling completely safe in his embrace, her body gradually relaxed until sleep quietly overtook her.

Anish carefully carried the sleeping little girl to the sofa placed inside the cabin. He adjusted a small cushion beneath her head before covering her gently with a light blanket so she could rest comfortably.

For a few moments, both he and Takshvi simply stood there, silently watching the peaceful sight.

Takshvi's eyes softened as she looked at the beautiful bond shared between her daughter and her devar. Trisha trusted him with the same innocence and security that she reserved only for the people she loved the most.

After making sure Trisha was sleeping peacefully, Anish quietly walked toward Takshvi: "Chinta mtt kriye, thk h vo.”
(Don't worry. She's fine.)

Takshvi let her gaze linger for a few moments on her peacefully sleeping daughter. The little girl looked completely lost in her dreams, her tiny chest rising and falling with every calm breath. A soft smile naturally appeared on Takshvi's lips before she gently adjusted the blanket over her daughter. Only after making sure that her little angel was sleeping comfortably did she turn her attention back to Anish. The reassuring warmth in his eyes made her heart soften even more. She could clearly sense that something was troubling him deeply, something he had been carrying within himself for quite some time. Meeting his uncertain gaze with an encouraging smile, she gave him a small nod before softly asking: “Kya baat krni thi apko?”
(What did you want to talk about?)

The simple question immediately made Anish lower his eyes. His fingers unconsciously intertwined with each other while he searched for words that refused to come out. He opened his mouth once before closing it again, his emotions making it difficult to even begin. Taking a slow breath, he finally spoke in a quiet, trembling voice: “M kese btau samjh nhi aa rha h.”
(I don't know how to explain it.)

Seeing his hesitation, Takshvi's concern deepened. She had never seen him struggle like this before. Without saying anything else, she gently held his hand and guided him to sit beside her. Her movements carried the affection of an elder sister and the warmth of a mother. She wanted him to know that no matter what was bothering him, he would never have to face it alone. Looking at him with patience and endless care, she softly encouraged him: “Maa jesa mante ho na toh btao kya baat h apke mnn ma.”
(You consider me like your mother, don't you? Then tell me what's in your heart.)

Those words broke whatever little wall Anish had been trying to maintain. He slowly nodded before gathering enough courage to speak. His voice remained heavy throughout as the memories of a few minutes ago replayed vividly before his eyes: “Abhi ek patient thi jisko pkka kisi na bht mara tha jiski vgh se uske hath par aur back pr kafi gehri chot lgi hui thi. Vo apne bhai k sath aai thi. Tanvisha naam h uska but bhabhi maa mene kbhi khud ko aise feel krte huyy nhi dekha. Ap bhai aur tiny pari meri family ho isiliye dil dukhta h jb ap logo ko hlka sa bhi drd hota h but vo ek random girl thi but mujse uska drd nhi dekha ja rha tha bhabhi maa.... Uska bhai Rohan bta rha tha ki usko doctors se drr lgta h fr bhi usne mujpr trust krk khud ko treat krne diya.”
(A patient came in just now. I'm sure someone had beaten her badly because she had deep injuries on her hand and back. She came with her brother. Her name is Tanvisha. But, Bhabhi Maa, I've never felt like this before. You, Bhai, and Tiny Pari are my family, so it hurts whenever any of you are in even a little pain. But she was just a random girl, and still... I couldn't bear to see her suffering. Her brother Rohan told me she's scared of doctors, yet she trusted me enough to let me treat her.)

The moment the last sentence left his lips, the emotions he had been suppressing completely took over. His eyes instantly filled with tears before they rolled freely down his cheeks. He tried wiping them away, but the more he remembered Tanvisha's pale face and frightened eyes, the more helpless he felt. The image of her silently enduring unbearable pain continued haunting his heart. His breathing became uneven as guilt and helplessness settled heavily inside him.

Takshvi was stunned for a brief moment. Never had she seen Anish cry for someone who was practically a stranger. She immediately shifted closer without wasting another second and gently wrapped both her arms around him. One hand moved to his head while the other slowly rubbed his back in comforting circles, silently allowing him to cry without holding himself back. Her embrace carried nothing but unconditional warmth and protection.

Keeping her voice soft and soothing, she lovingly tried calming him down: “Areee bhaiya, ro kyu rhe ho? Shant ho jao... m hu na, m dekhti hu kon h vo aur ab kesi h, hmm.... ab shant ho jao.”
(Oh, Bhaiya... why are you crying? Calm down... I'm here, aren't I? I'll find out who she is and how she's doing now, hmm... now please calm down.)

Instead of calming down, Anish clutched the fabric of her saree even tighter as though trying to hold onto the only support that could understand him. His tears continued falling while his breathing became interrupted with painful hiccups. Every word that left his mouth reflected how deeply Tanvisha's suffering had affected him: “Nhi bhabhi maa, vo bht kumjor h. Pulse, bp ab low tha and face pura pale jese kbse kuch khaya na ho. Kuch kro please, merse unki shkl tk nhi htai ja rhi apne dimag se, drd ho rha h dil ma ab...”
(No, Bhabhi Maa... she's very weak. Her pulse and blood pressure were low, and her face was so pale, as if she hadn't eaten for a long time. Please do something. I can't get her face out of my mind anymore... my heart hurts now.)

Takshvi could feel the genuine pain hidden behind every single word. There wasn't any confusion in his emotions; there was only concern, compassion, and an overwhelming desire to protect someone who had unknowingly touched his heart. She continued gently rubbing his back while allowing him enough time to breathe. Her voice remained calm, steady, and reassuring, almost like a mother comforting her frightened child: “Shhh.... shant. Sans lo... dheere dheere... I promise sb thk kr dungi....”
(Shhh... calm down. Breathe... slowly... I promise I'll make everything alright.)

Her words slowly helped Anish regain a little control over his breathing. Even then, his mind refused to leave Tanvisha behind. After remaining silent for a few seconds, another thought surfaced in his heart. Looking at Takshvi with hopeful yet tear-filled eyes, he quietly voiced the wish he had been afraid to say aloud: “Hum unhe apne ghr le aayy?”
(Can we bring her to our home?)

For a brief moment, Takshvi simply looked at him. His expression held neither hesitation nor selfishness. There was only pure concern, protectiveness, and an innocent longing to see someone safe and cared for. Watching him so emotionally invested in a girl he had only just met made a faint smile appear on her face. Wanting to understand his feelings better, she gently asked: “Psnd aa gyi h apko vo?”
(Do you like her?)

Without taking even a second to think, Anish honestly nodded. There was no embarrassment or denial. His answer came directly from his heart: “Hnn, bht simple si h, cute si h, shy bhi.... m nhi janta ki pyar h ya nhi pr m unko apne sath dekhna chahta hu, khush dekhna chahta hu.”
(Yes. She's very simple, cute, and shy... I don't know whether it's love or not, but I want to see her with me... I want to see her happy.)

Listening to his innocent confession, Takshvi's smile widened with affection. She could clearly understand that this wasn't a mere attraction. Whether it was love or not would only be known with time, but one thing was certain—Anish genuinely wanted Tanvisha to heal, smile, and live a peaceful life. Seeing such sincerity in his eyes filled her heart with quiet happiness.

Giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze, she nodded reassuringly before speaking with complete confidence: “Thk h, m baat krungi uss family se. Abhi rona bnd kriye vrna apki tiny pari jaag gyi toh apse ques puch puchkr preshan kr degi.”
(Alright, I'll speak with her family. Now stop crying, otherwise if your Tiny Pari wakes up, she'll keep asking you questions until you're completely exhausted.)

The mention of his tiny princess brought the faintest smile through Anish's tears. He instinctively turned his head toward the peacefully sleeping little girl, whose innocent face remained completely unaware of the emotional conversation taking place beside her. The heaviness in his heart hadn't disappeared completely, but Takshvi's promise gave him hope that perhaps Tanvisha would no longer have to fight her battles alone.

.................................................................................................................

✨ And that’s the end of this chapter! ✨

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