In Honour of the Heart

Tokyo:

 A long dark passage stretched out in front of her. How did it emerge so suddenly? She didn't have any choice but to travel the narrow path. The woman was scared. The other end happened to be invisible. Will she be okay? There was also a question of hanging around alone. A sense of panic started to well within her as the force pushed her  in that forlorn tunnel. Trusting her guts, Isabelle took the first step in uncharted area. With each step, she started noticing that the dark, lonely forbidding walls narrowed but she didn't lose courage. There must be her baby and husband at the other side and she wanted to meet them desperately. She wouldn't be able to face life without them.

Isabelle became aware of a low whisper. Someone talked to her. Relief washed her body like a first drops of rain. She was not alone. Whose gentle hand caressed her head while she finally made to the exit? Like a new twilight, soft light illuminated the opening aglow. She started to advance toward well-lit path. Isabelle picked the words clearly this time, “You are alright Belle." And a smile spread through her face. How gratified she was to recognize that voice. It belonged to her husband.

She floated on air as she almost ran towards the entrance. There he stood. Her husband stretched out his hand and asked her to hurry.

Isabelle slowly opened her eyes and took in the sights. Her gaze fell on Isaac who was standing upright near her. He placed his hand on her upper arm. That reassuring touch spoke thousands words of love and care.  She tried to focus her anesthesia laden heavy eyes and gave a pale smile to him. Her mouth felt dry and sore.

“Where is Suzan?” Her words were more of a mumble. Isaac hardly managed to hear it.

“She was crying for you. But I refused.”

“Oh! I figured it out but I want to see my baby now. She must be anxious to come to me.”

Thousand needles poked at her skin, she shivered and rubbed her hands together. Isaac switched off the air-conditioning and wrapped an extra blanket around her. Without warning, Isabelle retched and Isaac didn't have time. He put his palms under her as she vomited violently till her innards were empty.

After cleaning her, Isaac settled her and regarded his wife who had just come out of the unconsciousness.

Isabelle coughed a little. Her throat still pained due to the tube inserted during the procedure.

“I am so sorry, Isaac. But I couldn't control it.” She sounded embarrassed as she said that.

“It's alright Belle.  Do not worry. I am happy that you are alright.”

Isabelle's hand went to her stomach as she eyed him questioningly. She felt so empty and lost. Silent tears started to wet her cheeks. She extended her hand and fetched her husband near her. He came closer and enveloped her in his strong arms as powerful sobs started to shake Isabelle. Her body trembled uncontrollably.

Isaac glanced at her with a look of helplessness and wiped her tears.

“Isaac, I just found out that I had been pregnant. Is it true? I didn't perceive it. But Before I rejoice, we lost the baby. It got over within minutes. How do I tell you, my heart is literally bleeding now?”

“Honey, be strong. We will have another baby, may be twins this time.” Isaac struggled hard to cheer her but it didn't bring smile on her face.

“No, I only want this baby. I am completely damaged. What if I will not conceive again? Will I never be able to hold another cherub in my arms?  We were trying since so many years. God blessed me finally but I didn't take care of it.  I just hate myself.”