Through fire & silence - IPKKND FF

Chapter 21: Instincts of the Heart

"Instinct is a marvelous thing. It can neither be explained nor ignored" - Agatha Christie

Mar 17 2012

Khushi stirred awake when the early dawn light filtered softly through the curtains of Shantivan. Today was important - one that carried the weight of both anticipation and anxious hope. Dr Ajit Mehra a renowned specialist, might finally provide Shashi with the care he desperately needed.

She got ready quickly and made her way downstairs toward the mandir. Folding her hands, she whispered a silent prayer to Devi Maiyya, seeking her blessings. Let today bring us closer to Babuji's recovery.

After completing her prayer Khushi made her way to Payal's room. She found her sister already dressed as if waiting for her. "Jiji," Khushi called out gently.
Payal looked up a sense of resolve in her gaze. "Khushi I was thinking... I want to come with you to Babuji's appointment."

Khushi blinked in surprise before shaking her head. "Jiji you don't have to. I can handle it."
"I know you can," Payal said firmly, "but I want to be there too. I told you we'll do this together. I know I should have done this sooner but from now on I won't leave you to handle everything alone."
Khushi didn't argue further, a small but grateful smile forming. "Then let's ask Naniji together."

Nani, Manohar and Manorama were seated in the living room. Khushi took the lead. "Naniji I wanted to tell you something," she began softly. Nani looked up. "What is it Khushi bitiya?"
"There's an appointment today for Babuji with a specialist. He's supposed to be very good and we are hoping he'll guide us on the best treatment for his recovery."
A warm smile graced Nani's face. "That is wonderful news. It is good that you are taking this step. May Devi Maiyya help Shashiji recover soon."

Manohar set down his coffee cup nodding. "That is a good step. You both should go and take one of the cars," he said kindly. "There's no need for you girls to struggle with an auto or cab."

Khushi hesitated. "But Mamaji.."
"No buts. I'll inform Shekhar to take you," he said firmly. Khushi and Payal exchanged a look before nodding in agreement.

Manorama scoffed. "Haan haan, make sure the driver doesn't get stuck waiting hours for you." She waved a hand dismissively. "Go quickly and come back before dinner."

Their arrival at Buaji's house was met with Garima's expectant gaze. "You're here early bitiya."
Khushi nodded. "We should leave soon."
Buaji turned to Payal surprised. "You're coming too Payaliya?"
Payal met Buaji's eyes with quiet determination. "Yes Buaji. I want to be there for Babuji."

Garima's eyes softened. "You both are such wonderful daughters. Shashiji will be happy to see you both by his side."
Buaji sighed in relief. "It's about time we get proper treatment for him. Let me get his things."

As they made their way out Happy Singh noticed them struggling to help Shashi into the car. Without hesitation he stepped forward. "Arre let me help."
With careful movements, he lifted Shashi from his wheelchair and helped settle him into the seat. Khushi turned to him with gratitude. "Thank you Happyji."
"No need for thanks puttar," he said with a reassuring smile.

The drive to the hospital was silent, each of them lost in their own thoughts. When they arrived a hospital assistant helped transfer Shashi onto a wheelchair and soon they were ushered into Dr. Ajit Mehra's consultation room.

The doctor, a man in his late forties with a calm demeanor, meticulously went through Shashi's reports asking detailed questions. After conducting some preliminary tests he leaned back in his chair carefully considering his next words.
"There is potential for recovery," he finally said, meeting their anxious gazes. "It will require patience and consistent therapy. For now I am prescribing medication for two weeks to improve his muscle responsiveness. After that we can begin the next phase on April 2nd."