Chapter - 26

Location - Hospital - Special Ward - 9 PM

It was quite a long time post everyone's egress; Cabir was lying on the couch - talking to the love birds who were closely nestled in each other's arms under the duvet, on the hospital bed when Cabir asked Nandini Aur kitne din hospital mein rehna hai Nandu? She pondered over Angad's advice about staying for a couple of days more so that Manik can be properly cared after and replied Do din aur. Cabir nodded but Manik spoke abruptly, not liking the idea of extending his sojourn in the infirmaryNo Nandini! I don't want to stay here. Lets go home na. And please don't try reasoning me saying I need rest and care. No place in this world can give me more peace than our home. Aur rahi baat care karne ki, toh tum ho na. No one can look after me better than you. Please take me home. Nandini couldn't disregard his such an earnest plea neither did she find any need to do so as he was correct and also, she herself wasn't able to stand the sight of him laying on the hospital bed - so granting his wish, she said As you say so. I will talk to Angad in the morning okay? Manik smiled and so did Cabir, admiring the scene which he would have laughed on; if someone had foretold him about its happening 6 years back; His dear friend Manik Malhotra who searched for ways to avoid returning to his then 'so called home' was now beseeching to be taken back there; the sole person behind this drastic change being 'Nandini' - he whispered her name under his breath - more like a prayer; immensely grateful to her for coming in his friend's life - which was beset by problems as a solution. His smile grew wider - like it always did - on seeing the two lovelies cuddling and enjoying in their little world; playing and giggling muttering sweet nothings to each other - peace and content evident on their faces. He could have teased them and broken their cute moment; but he din't - as seeing them so happy together; seeing Manik - whom he had seen shattering bit by bit in loneliness - so ecstatic filled his heart with genuine euphoria and blessings came out instinctively. Not wanting a bit to disturb them, he quietly pulled the quilt over himself and closed his eyes to have a visit to the Land of Nod.

Unmindful of Cabir's brief adoration followed by sleep taking over him; MaNan were busy in each other - Manik resting on Nandini's shoulder - who was ruffling his hair and tittering, amidst their talks - bearing his sweet tickles caused by the slow brushing of his long fingers on her petite waist - making him also giggle. Snuggling more into his soft baby, Manik said, rubbing his cheeks that had grown a stubble, with her smooth ones Nandini! You know what? You are really like a baby. So soft and supple. One of the many reasons why I can't stay away from you. He stopped his cuddly gesture, thinking his stiff hairs might rash her cheeks but she din't let him move and replied, massaging his cheeks with hers And I am fond of the touch of your rugged skin against mine. Gives me a tingly feeling; which I love. She said tongue - in cheek and his lips instantly twitched in a naughty smirk and mischief glinted in his chocolaty eyes. He moved closer to her ear and asked, nibbling her earlobe Accha? Aisi baatein tum tab kiun nahi karti jab hum apne room mein hotey hain hmm? I would love to give you that tingly feeling. Saying he bit her ear lightly and began nuzzling the flexure of her neck but Nandini pushed him by prodding his shoulder with her index finger and said Mr. Naughty Malhotra! If you have forgotten, we are in a hospital ward, on the hospital bed and you have two stitches on your body - which are two - days old. Sorry to disappoint you - but Your desires have to go on a holiday until your wounds completely heal. He pouted like a child whose toffee was snatched and seeing this, Nandini rejoined after pecking his pout I know you hate this but I can't let your injuries get tensed. Your one hiss and my heart gets murdered. I have already let you endure too much of pain - not a pint - size more now. Understanding her emotions; Manik smiled and took her in his arms; after lying properly on his back and said, spooning her cheek with his palm Kaise milgayi tum mujhe Nandini. Kahan main thodey se pyaar ke liye tadapta tha aur yahan tumhare Aiyappa ne tumhe mere paas bhej diya. I Love You so much Nandini. So so much. Her devastated state that he saw when he gained consciousness; her endless tears on seeing his bruises and her hard - hearted behavior towards Vadhera; everything was constantly running in his mind as well as heart - acquainting him with her unfathomable and boundless love for him; filling his entire being with warmth and amour and making every cell in his body to dance out of joy for being the fortunate one to own her and her love. She could clearly see the delight in his eyes that were holding a little lone tear of beatitude and replied, kissing away the tear I Love You More Manik. So much that it can drown and kill the bad memories of your past. Saying this she placed her lips on his for a gentle kiss - promising him the togetherness for a lifetime and beyond. They broke the kiss and she rested her forehead on his and hummed a melody; a lullaby, while raking her fingers through his hair and he harbored her in his arms - nothing was spoken thereafter; only tranquility, their love and her mellow voice pervaded the air and slowly they slipped in the arms of Morpheus.

It was around 10 AM in the morning when Angad entered the ward to find Manik dressed in casual clothes and Cabir helping Nandini in packing up things - all set to get Manik discharged. He came near the bed and said to Nandini I Know I don't need to give you any instructions but its my duty so - make sure that he doesn't stretch his body neither should he stand or walk for a long time. On your request, I am permitting his discharge otherwise his condition is still not normal. I am sure you will heal him much faster but be extra cautious. Okay?Nandini smiled at him and replied I will Angad. Thank you. Thank You for everything. He returned her the smile and left bidding them adieu and giving her a double tap on her shoulder as a sign that he has accepted her thanks.

Cabir dropped MaNan at their Mansion and took leave from the doorstep itself; citing his tiredness and need for some good sleep. Fab 4 decided to leave the two alone for a couple of days and give their routine habit of landing up at their place every next day so that Manik can veg out and Nandini can restore his health. As soon as they entered the hall, all the concerned servants came running to see their Master - who had returned after fighting a battle against death. He genially greeted them and politely replied to their hesitant inquiries regarding his health.

After their dispersal, Nandini stood up from the sofa and said Manik tum yahan baitho. I will just prepare and keep the soup on stove and then we will go to our room. She had hardly taken a step forward when Manik pulled her back and replied And why will you cook? As far as I can see - butlers are not on a leave. Chup chap mere saath uper chalo. No need to do so much of work. Nandini sighed and said I know baba ke butlers hain but sirf mujhe pata hai ke tumhe kaisa food dena hai. I can't rely on anyone. And there is no way I am letting you skip this meal. So please - let me do it. She looked at him with an innocent expectant puppy face that made it impossible for him to deny. He smiled and replied Okay! But only on one condition. That I will accompany you. And before you freak out ke You need rest, You shouldn't stand and what not; let me tell you - Our kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs. I will just sit there and watch my wife work. Now if you are cool with it then you are allowed nahi toh you know you are not heavy enough to refrain me from lifting and taking you upstairs in my arms. Certain that his threat was not a percent hollow and he would definitely do according to what he said - she shook her head in disbelief taking which as a yes - he walked into the kitchen, dragging her along, and settled on a chair.

He was looking at her fixedly; amazed by the way she was cooking so serenely; not a sign of disorderliness or confusion - completely at ease; her hands reaching out exactly to the spice she needs while she was engrossed in the cooking pot - her gloves and apron void of any marks or stains - just like the kitchen, which was shining as if unused. He was smiling at his perfectionista wife; who was an ace in whatever she does - a perfect lady any man can dream of having; who can be ogled at, even when absorbed in doing messy household chores.

Seeing her licking her finger; he immediately strode towards her - panicked, assuming she has slit it and began rebuking, startling her Oh God Nandini! Bola tha maine ke mat karo yeh sab - per nahi. Tumhe to cook karna tha. Dekho ab cut gaya na. Bohot pain horaha hai kya Baby? Show me. Without even listening to what she had opened her mouth to say, he grabbed her finger and put it in his mouth - leaving her awed and astonished. He frowned his brows on sucking her finger and said, looking at Nandini confusingly Baby Your blood is tasting like soup. She took some time to comprehend his words and once did; she burst out laughing holding her belly adding to his confusion. After chortling the tears out and composing herself; she said, pulling his cheeks My adorable Monster! I was just tasting the soup. My finger is fine. See. Saying this she showed him her finger; he first let out a sigh of relief seeing it fine and the next second his face turned pink in embarrassment and then he apologized, catching his ears Sorry Baby! I am so stupid. Bina dekhe tumper shout kiya. M sorry. She couldn't hold back from giving him a peck on his sorry pout and replied, freeing his ears from his holdYou are not stupid. But a caring husband whom I Love a lot. She again pecked his lips which had now curved into a smile and turned to the soup - which was boiling briskly. Manik kept his chin on her shoulder, hugging her from back and asked Baby aur kinni der? Half an hour se you are standing. Bas karo ab aur chalo yahan se. She covered the pot with the lid and replied, taking the apron and gloves off herselfYour wish is my command. Lets Go! He smiled and they walked out - after Manik asked Ramesh Kaka to rustle up some Pasta for Nandini.

Its so good to be here after 3 long days. I am already feeling healed. Manik said while leaning on the door of their bedroom balcony; rejoicing the fresh and scented breeze that blew from their garden into the room filling it with a rejuvenating and enlivening euphony that served as a source of restfulness in their little paradise. She smiled and he added, in a husky voiceJust a shower and freshening up - and I will be revitalized. Saying this he started walking to the bathroom door but an abrupt pull from Nandini landed him on the bed with a mild thud. He looked up to find her standing with raised brows and arms folded across her chest. On seeing the big question mark on his face; she said or more accurately, ordered You are not going to move around. And you can't have a bath - stitches khul jaenge. Tum yahan bed per baitho - I will give you a sponge bath. Her voice was firm enough to cancel all the chances of arguments but still, giving it a try, he replied Baby I also need to shave. Thodi der thaira rahunga toh kuch nahi hoga. She took her towel from the Almirah and said, shrugging her shoulders So what you have to shave? I can do that. I will just take a shower and come - tab tak yahin baithey rehna. Agar tum hiley bhi na - toh main tumse baat nahi karungi. He nodded like a Grade 1 student who was being warned by his teacher and she left - giving him a light pat on the cheek along with a kiss.

20 Minutes later - she walked in drying her hair with a towel; wearing shorts and one of his shirts - a pair of clothes which were loved by both as it related them to one of their million beautiful memories and which she wore only in his presence. She smiled seeing him sitting on the bed - resting with his eyes closed and head thrown back on the headboard. Without making any noise; she gathered all the requirements - his shaving kit, a pair of towels; a sponge; a bowl of warm water and an XXL tee for him that was probably two sizes larger than his daily wear to make sure his stitches don't get irritated. Placing the tray on the side - table - she sedately ensconced herself in his lap and brushed his lips with her - making him smile. He yanked her closer, grasping her waist and said, opening his eyes You need to compensate for leaving me alone for 25 minutes. Saying this, he rammed his lips on hers - digging his nails into her velvety skin. She was taken aback for a few seconds but then responded with equal fervor. Her hands moved on their own accord to clench his hair while his fingers began skimming over her bare satiny legs. A moan escaped when he fiercely bit her lower lip and then sucked it - that just ignited his passion and getting driven by this strong feeling; he started unbuttoning her shirt - but suddenly; his subconscious mind reminded him about her words last night. Knowing, she won't stop him and later blame herself if his wounds get teased; he slowly cupped her face and pulled apart; both panting and breathing heavily. Joining their foreheads, he entwined their hands and said Its so hard to resist you baby. But I will. I Love You so much. She smiled and replied, while taking the t - shirt off his body I Love You too and I am glad you remember my words. He smiled back and she rejoined, while spraying the shaving creme on her palm and applying it on his face Manik! No moving okay? Yaad hai na last time jab maine kiya toh cut padgaya tha. He bobbed his head and stiffened himself - as she started to slide the razor down his jaw - line. His lips were threatening to twitch into a smile seeing the nervousness on her face that was bearing her cutest expressions - forehead crinkled and lips pressed tightly as if it was not shaving that she was engaged in but the world's toughest task. A big grin adhered on her face on finally finishing the barber - work successfully without hurting him and she started clapping her hands like a Kid who had won a competition. Overwhelmed by her adorbs, he pecked on her lips - that paused her jiggling and said Tu kitna cute hai tujhe pata hai? Aise faces banaega tu toh main keshe rokunga khudko - from cuddling you. She smiled sheepishly and wet - wiped his face and then dried it using a towel.

After giving him a quick, warm sponge bath - she glided the over - sized shirt down his head and started feeding him the soup that the servant just brought. He too fed her the pasta - ignoring all her protests and then taking the medicines; they moved to the Balcony to spend some cozy evening time with each other.

Curled up on the swaying swing and sharing the larger than life tee - shirt; sitting in Manik's lap and fitting perfectly in the free - space of the tee - shirt just the way she did in his arms, Nandini said, while doodling her name on his heart Manik! Office ka agar koi work ayega toh tum mujhe batana okay. I will do it. He smilingly looked at her and replied, sheathing her delicate body in his arms Pehle to koi kaam nahi ayega. Office me log kisliye hain? Tum na meri condition ka advantage mat lo. My Baby won't work anymore now. She lifted her head that was reposed on his shoulder and said, looking at him Manik agar tum mujhe kuch bhi kaam nahi karne dogey aur main sirf baithi rahungi toh I will become fat. She said puffing her cheeks and hooking her arms on the either side of her waist inside the big t - shirt, imitating a fat lady. He chuckled at her antic first and then said, bursting the balloon in her cheek with his finger and pecking on her pout To hojao. I won't mind golu molu Baby. I really miss my College Nandini - who had chubby chubby cheeks. I will get those cheeks back. She again whiffed air in her cheeks, this time showing that she is angry and said No! I don't want to get fat. You will tease me - like you did in college and also I won't look good. Saying she relaxed her cheek on his chest and he replied, intertwining their fingers and kissing her hand Who said you won't look good. My Barbie will just become a teddy bear - and I would love that. She smiled at his answer and planted a kiss on the corner of his lips, tilting her face a little up and said Still no. No no no. He snickered and said, tightening the hugOkay Okay! My Stubborn Baby. Saying so, he planted a kiss on her temple and she tee - heed like a child.

Where is my My honey bee? Sweetheart! Darling! A dear familiar voice that was coming from downstairs - lit up Nandini's face like a 1000 watt bulb and she mirthfully exclaimed Oh My God! Excitedly jumping out of the shirt and swing, she ran towards the hall, shouting Here! at the top of her voice, leaving an equally ebullient Manik - who followed her taking smaller steps, repeating the word Careful! and smiling seeing her excitement.

To Be Continued ..