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Part 18 - Dooms day in paradise
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Astha had her dinner and went to bed. Sleep was eluding her. She did not know if coming away was the right thing to do. She was punishing herself and her beloved by running away. Maybe she should have stood her ground in front of Shlok instead of shying away like a coward. Something was bothering her. Her heart felt gloomy, as if something sinister was looming above her.
Bappa! Keep my family, my love safe. I don't know why I am praying to you. You are my savior.
Shlok's anger simmered and concern took over. Did she eat? When will she come back? Maybe I should give up all this and go and bring her back tomorrow. Yes. That's what I will do. I am going to speak to aunty and uncle and then go bring her back.
With the decision made, Shlok had some satisfaction and lot of anticipation to meet his angel. He craved her presence, her touch, her unique fragrance, her eyes that radiated love. He understood the folly they both were committing by staying away. He knew it was futile to put a lid on all the love that was flowing between them. There was only one way from here; the path of love.
Next day dawned with dark clouds looming in the sky. The sun seemed to be missing that day. Astha told her aunt she wanted to go out for a while and she went out to the local market to do some street side shopping. When she stood admiring a local craftsman's work, an automobile hit her from behind. Her fall was swift and she fell down unconscious. Blood was oozing out. A crowd quickly gathered around her.
Kalindi received a phone call. She placed the phone in shock. Avdhoot had already left for work. She called him and informed him. Immediately she rushed to the Agnihotri's, and went to inform Anjali.
Anjali ran to Kalindi when she saw her come in with tears. "kalindi, what happened? Why are you crying?"
"It's Astha. She has had a bad fall and is in coma. She is in ICU. I just received a call. I am rushing to the hospital. Wanted to inform you before I left."
Shlok, who was coming down from his room, was completely immobile in shock for a minute. He gathered courage and grabbed the car keys. "Aunty I am coming with you. Chalo."
Anjali also went with them. Anjali was consoling Kalindi on the way. "Don't worry Kalindi. Bappa will not let anything happen to our Astha. She has the grace of God." Anjali also had tears in her eyes.
Shlok drove like a mad man. He wanted to reach Astha immediately. There was no place for him on this Earth without Astha. He was calling himself all kinds of fool. Why? Why did I let her out of my sight? God, I don't know if you are really there but my Astha believes in you. You better keep her safe. Else you got to answer me. Got that?
The doctor told them that there was some blood loss but mainly there was internal hemorrhage which caused her coma. "She may get out in a few hours or she may even take a few years. We cannot say anything. Trust in God."
Kalindi completely broke down. Anjali was trying to control her own tears and console her. Avdhoot also reached. He was naturally grief stricken. He went and saw Astha. She lay there like a doll, without life. He could not see the sight and came out with wet eyes.
Shlok could wait no more. He went inside. His Astha was lying there lifeless. He refused to cry. No! She was going to be alright. He will not rest till then. He sat besides her holding her hands, transferring his love through his touch. Unknowingly healing her in the process.
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