IT'S NOT OVER

Chapter 6

Reyansh knew Dr. Sudha wasn't naive. Maybe she'd seen the news, or maybe his family history was an open book to someone of her stature. Regardless, her offer was a lifeline, and he grasped it with both hands.

Following the driver, Reyansh embarked on a new chapter, a flicker of hope rekindled in his chest. He reached the farmhouse, exhaustion finally claiming him. The driver unloaded their belongings, and Reyansh collapsed onto the bed, the weight of the day finally pressing down. He managed to settle Avi before succumbing to sleep himself.

•••••

Sunlight, a welcome change from the sterile white walls of his intern's quarters, streamed through the farmhouse curtains. A gentle pattering on his cheek brought a smile to Reyansh's face – it was Avi!

"Very good morning, sleepyhead!" he said, his voice thick with sleep but warm with affection.

Avi giggled and patted him back, her tiny hand surprisingly strong.

"Whoa there, little one," Reyansh chuckled. "You're beating up your Dad!"

At the word "Dad," Avi's eyes widened. Her gaze darted around the room, searching. "Dadda? Dadda?" she called out, a hint of worry creeping into her voice.

A pang shot through Reyansh's heart. She was looking for her real father. Picking her up, he twirled her around playfully, trying to distract her. "You should call me Dad!" he suggested, his voice light.

Avi tilted her head, confusion clouding her bright eyes. Seeing her frown deepen, Reyansh switched tactics. Laughter always worked with her. He started tickling her sides, and soon the cheerful sound of her laughter filled the room, chasing away the shadows of worry.

Their playtime was interrupted by the doorbell. Reyansh went to answer it, finding a woman in her mid-fifties standing on the porch.

"Hello sir," she greeted, a warm smile creasing her face. "I'm the maid and nanny for the baby. Mrs. Sudha appointed me."

Just then, Reyansh's phone buzzed. Glancing at the screen, he saw it was Dr. Sudha calling. "Excuse me a moment," he said politely, stepping outside to take the call.

"Hello," he answered, his voice curious.

"Mr. Reyansh, this is Dr. Sudha," her voice came through the phone. "I hope the nanny has arrived safely?"

"Yes, Madam, she just came," Reyansh confirmed.

"Excellent," Dr. Sudha replied. "I'm sending you the address of the college right now. You can head there directly and start teaching the emergency classes for the second and third-year students. Also, by the way, I've enrolled you in the Ms. in Cardiology department as a student."

Surprise flickered across Reyansh's face, but he didn't hesitate to agree. "Thank you, Dr. Sudha. I appreciate it more than you know."

Hanging up, he returned to the living room where the nanny stood patiently. Hesitantly, he launched into explaining everything – Avi's routine, her favorite foods, where her toys and clothes were kept.

The woman listened attentively, nodding along with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, sir," she said kindly. "I'll take good care of everything."

Relieved, Reyansh picked up Avi and hugged her tightly. "Be good for the nice lady," he whispered, planting a kiss on her forehead.

Placing her gently in the nanny's arms, he excused himself and headed for the washroom to get ready for college.

Ready for college, Reyansh peeked into the living room. Avi, dressed adorably, played with her toys. Maya, the nanny, patiently offered her food, but Avi wasn't interested.

Knowing the routine, Reyansh sat beside them and took over feeding duty. Avi's face lit up, and she happily ate from his hand.

Afterward, Reyansh leaned in and kissed Avi's forehead. "Bye to Dad," he whispered, explaining he was going to college.

Avi scanned the room, confused. Reyansh gently turned her towards him and repeated, "Bye to Dad."

A smile bloomed on Avi's face, and she reached out, booping his forehead with her finger. "Bye," she said sweetly.

Just as Reyansh turned to leave, Avi whimpered and tears welled up. The nanny scooped her up, comforting her.

Feeling guilty, Reyansh rushed back and knelt before them. "It's okay," he said, wiping a tear. "I'll be back soon, with chocolates and ice cream!"

Mentioning treats worked. Avi's eyes widened, and her tears stopped.

Reyansh repeated, "Say bye to Dad."

This time, she understood. With a giggle and a wave, she chirped, "Bye!"

Taking a deep breath, Reyansh stood up, a lighter heart. The nanny's smile reassured him everything would be alright.

•••••

On his way to college, Reyansh couldn't help noticing the stares. Maybe it was the whirlwind of emotions or the sunlight, but whispers followed him. Suddenly, he collided with someone, sending books flying.

A flustered yet firm voice filled the air. "Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry!"

Reyansh looked up, captivated. Dark eyes sparkled beneath a cascade of curls. Before he could react, the girl bent to gather her things with practiced grace.

Instinct kicked in, and Reyansh crouched to help. As he reached for a book, she straightened, radiating confidence. "Thank you," she said politely.

There was an undeniable magnetism about her – intelligence, beauty, and a positive aura. Mustering a smile, Reyansh managed a simple, "Hi."

She returned the smile, amusement flickering in her eyes. "Hi there!" she replied.

Clearing his throat, Reyansh asked, "Excuse me, could you point me towards the principal's office?"

Reyansh followed Saarayu's silent lead.

Saarayu glanced at him briefly, a hint of a blush creeping up her cheeks. She stammered slightly, "My name is Saara-Saarayu."

Reyansh repeated her name softly, testing it on his tongue. "Saarayu."

Her eyes flickered back to him for a moment, a flicker of something sparking within them. But before he could hold her gaze, she shyly averted it again. The playful fire he'd sensed earlier seemed hidden beneath a veil of timidity, an intriguing contrast that piqued his interest further.

As they walked in comfortable silence, Saarayu finally broke the ice. "So, why are you here?" she asked, her voice still soft but laced with a hint of curiosity.

Reyansh took a deep breath. "I'm actually here to teach," he explained, surprising himself with the calmness in his voice. "A few emergency medicine workshops for the second and third years. And," he added, a hint of pride creeping in, "to join M.S. Cardiology to become Cardiac surgeon.