Chapter 15
The first few weeks passed away quickly. Nachiket resumed his study. He also worked part time assisting at a hospital. Ragini had begun her treatment at the same hospital but the results were very slow. Nachiket cheered her and got her books to study from for her next semeste which kept her occupied.
One night in bed
N - Ragini we have a long weekend coming up. Some friends want to go away to the country side. Lets go with them.
R - which friends?
N - the entire lot from Sam's birthday party
R - you go. I will stay back.
N - why?
R - you have been studying and working hard you need a break. I am on a break since 2 months
N - its just 2 nights. Come for me please
R - you go. I will be fine here
Ragini turned around and pretended to sleep. Nachiket slept disappointed by raginis reaction. After sometime Ragini heard Nachiket snore. She smiled and turned around.
R - i want to come with you. But i wont. It will just double up the expense. You deserve the break. I wish i had kept some of the trust money. You are being the perfect husband by giving me all the comforts, paying for my treatment giving me time. But in return i can't do much. Soon i will be back on my feet. Then i will proudly join you everywhere. For now you deserve the luxuries.
Nachiket turned in his sleep to hug Ragini. She cuddled him and slept instantly.
Nachiket tried convincing her to come along but she stayed back. She asked him to enjoy himself and not worry about her. He called her throughout the trip to check on her. When he returned he ran and hugged her.
N - missed you
R - how was the trip?
N - nice. But would have been better with you
R - maybe next time
N - did you go for the physio session
R - yes. It was pretty good.
Nachiket saw Ragini struggle to walk
N - is the leg bad?
R - i signed up for an experimental surgery.
N - what? Why?
R - its my best shot at a normal life. Plus it is all paid for
N - our life is normal. I won't let you be a ginny pig until I know of assured results.
R - how long will i live off you?
N - off me? I am your husband. Husbands care for their wives
R - is that why you married me?
N - what?
R - you knew i would not accept monetary help from you. You felt sorry for me and...
N - that's enough. You just insulted my love. Our love.
R - let me go through with the surgery
N - not till i know of the results
R - i am a medical student myself. I know what i am doing
N - alright. Do as you please
Nachiket left the house in anger. He returned late and went straight to bed. The day of the surgery came. Ragini admitted herself. Nachiket came into her room.
N - are you sure about this?
R - the physio isnt doing much. I need this corrective surgery
N - if they can't fix the vein you can get paralysed
R - thats the worst outcome
N - what if it happen?
Ragini smiled with tears in her eyes.
R - The research team said they will fund my life long stay in a care facility
N - what?
R - you can move on with your life.
N - you serious
R - yes. I have been independent all my life. I can't live off you any more.
N - Ragini lets think this through again
R - please leave Nachiket. I have made my decision.