In the evening...

Shalini, Saurav and Vidyut were at Mihika's office in the afternoon. Vidyut and Saurav told Shalini about everything they had learned through Ruhi.

That's when Saurav came to know that Mihika was the one who sent Ruhi home with Vidyut. They decided to meet Mihika and discuss this.

Now, the three were at Mihika's office.

Mihika nodded and took out a file from one of the drawers.

Mihika: These are Sarika Rajput's medical reports. She was suffering from Cancer. Around 3 months ago or so. She came to us with Ruhi and told us about her health and life. That's when I learned about Ruhi sharing a blood relation with you.

Saurav, Vidyut and Shalini were shocked by this information.

Mihika: Umm... Since then, I knew everything, but I couldn't share this with you as Sarika wanted to spend her last days with Ruhi. Her treatment was going on, but the Surgery was not successful. She wished to meet you guys once, but she was scared that you wouldn't accept Ruhi after her death.

Shalini (taking a deep breath): Her family knew about it?

Mihika (nodded): They said we won't accept Ruhi or her. She decided to get married against their will.

She held Saurav's hand, giving him a small squeeze.

Saurav (confused): Marrying against their will?

Shalini (sighed): Sahaj was already married and he left his family and wife. Her family knew everything, which is why they were against this marriage. Sarika ran away with Sahaj.

Saurav stared at Shalini. Vidyut was listening to everything silently. He gasped, processing every word.

Saurav (whispering in shock): She was well aware of his first marriage?

Mihika hummed. Shalini nodded. Saurav and Vidyut looked at them then at each other.

Shalini: She was aware of her cancer as well?

Mihika (shuffling some files): Ji Dadi. She informed us three months before. A lady used to be around her just in case an emergency arose.

Mihika took a book (Diary) and placed it in front of them.

Mihika: She wrote this book for you three. She wanted to apologise to you but couldn't.

Vidyut (looking at the book): Why for us?

Mihika: After marriage, their life was going smoothly, but the tables turned out she gave birth to Ruhi. When Ruhi was a toddler, things were a bit easier for her. As she never understood her father's behaviour, but as Ruhi started to grow and understand her surroundings. Mr. Rajput's behaviour was not something, she was able to handle. She couldn't go back to her family as they did not accept her. Neither could she ask for support from Dadi. So, she used to bear it, and at that time she realised her mistake... She then wanted to come and meet you, and apologise to you.

She completed with a sigh.

Shalini (looking at Dairy): I never knew about all this. I always thought they were leading a peaceful life. I was surprised in the morning when they told me.

Mihika: Hmm... She told us everything around 3 months ago. She asked us if we are accepting Ruhi, well and good. If not, then drop her at the orphanage.

Saurav: We have to read this diary?

Vidyut: I am okay with Ruhi but I won't forgive Mr and Mrs. Rajput. I don't care, she was regretting or whatever.

He declared his decision.

Mihika: Hmm... as you feel. That's fine. For now, Ruhi is important.

Vidyut nodded.

Saurav (nervously): I do want to check it once.

Everyone was shocked by his sentence.

Mihika: You sure? You don't have to it's not necessary.

Saurav: I know but I want to. I want to know about Ruhi. If she mentioned anything. I want to know how she learnt to take care of others when someone is sick. I remember, how actively she arranged cold water and prepared Jam bread. Also, she got freshened up by her own. I believe her mother had already taught her all this.

Mihika nodded.

Shalini: Is there anything else, we need to know?

Mihika: For now, I told you everything I am aware of. If anything comes up. I will let you know. I just have to hand over Sarika's house keys. She left her property in Ruhi's name. Once Ruhi is above 18, she can access it. Till then her guardian can use it.

Shalini: Okay...

With this, they discussed more than bidding Mihika bye.

The three left for home, but their minds were full of questions and thoughts they had just discussed.

Shalini: Saurav, Vidu... I want to read this book first. Once I complete it, then you can.

Saurav (nodding): Sure Dadi.

Vidyut: Dadi, we had no idea about our mother's death. But how will Ruhi feel in future when she understands all this? We directly blame Mr. Rajput but here she... We know our mother was the best lady, mother, daughter, and wife. Ruhi's situation will be totally opposite. She has to bear every pain.

He mumbled, feeling empathic pain for Ruhi.

Shalini (tears brimmed in her eyes): Saurav, Vidyut always be with Ruhi. She is just a small kid. She has no idea what's going on around her. What's her life? I want you kids to be always safe.nd peaceful.

Saurav (sighed softly): Dadi, don't worry. Everything will be fine.

Shalini: I will speak with Ani as well. Once, let me read the diary and know everything about her and her life.

Vidyut: Ji Dadi... but whatever it is. I won't ever forgive Mrs. Rajput.

Shalini: It's okay Vidyut. Just don't let Ruhi go through anything because of her parents.

Vidyut nodded. Saurav too agreed.

They drove off.

A feeling of sympathy may have grown in Vidyut and Saurav's minds but will Anirudh accept Ruhi?

To be continued...

The chapter is short, but I am trying to post it early rather than taking time and disappointing you guys...