As I stand in the entrance of the kovil, anticipation coursing through my veins like a gentle breeze, I cannot help but feel a sense of wonder at the beauty that surrounds me. The soft glow of the morning sun filters through the intricately carved archways, casting a warm, ethereal light over the sacred space.

I await her arrival, and my heart beats with excitement, my mind flooded with thoughts of her.

And then, like a vision descending from the heavens above, she appears before me. Shree, my beloved chellam, clad in a resplendent green sari with a delicate gold border, moves with an ethereal grace, her every step carrying with a celestial elegance that takes my breath away. Her dark locks are a cascade of silken waves, framing her exquisite and angelic face.

As our eyes meet across the sacred space of the kovil, time seems to stand still. The world fades away, leaving only her. Her presence fills me with a sense of awe, of reverence, as though I am beholding a goddess incarnate.

As she walks nearer, her beauty only grows more captivating, more bewitching. Her eyes, pools of liquid amber, sparkle with a luminous intensity that speaks of a soul touched by divinity. Her lips, curved in a tender smile, hold the promise of untold mysteries, of secrets waiting to be discovered.

In that moment, I realize, with a clarity that cuts through the haze of uncertainty, that she is the one I have been searching for, the one whose presence fills the void in my heart with a boundless, and endless joy.

As she approaches, a soft sigh escapes my lips, a silent prayer of gratitude to the heavens above for blessing me with her presence. And as our hands meet, an electric current courses through my veins.

In that moment, I make a silent vow to cherish her, to honor her, to love her with every fiber of my being. For in her, I have found not only my heart's truest desire, but also the very essence of my soul's longing.

* * * * *

RK enters the hospital room where Shree was admitted. He approaches her bed with a heavy heart, his brow furrowed with concern. Lakshmi stands by his side, her eyes brimming with worry.

"How is she, Lakshmi?" RK asks in a hushed tone, mindful not to disturb Shree's slumber.

Lakshmi's gaze flickers to her daughter, her expression pained. "She's not well, RK. The doctors say she's suffering from schizophrenia. And she's be having illusions and things. It's been a difficult time for all of us."

RK's features darken with concern as he takes in the gravity of the situation. "We can't leave her here, Lakshmi. She needs us. Let's take her home with us."

Lakshmi nods, her heart heavy with the weight of her daughter's suffering. "I know, RK. But Shree is determined to complete her degree here in London. She's working so hard for it."

RK sighs, his worry deepening. "Then we'll have to find a way to support her here. I'll rent out an apartment nearby and arrange for a nurse who can take care of her. She shouldn't be alone."

Lakshmi's eyes fill with gratitude at RK's offer of assistance. "Thank you, RK. That would mean the world to Shree."

RK nods, his resolve firm. "We'll do whatever it takes to ensure she gets the care she needs. She's our little girl, after all."

Shree's eyes flutter open, and RK envelops her in a warm embrace, she can feel the weight of their worry and love pressing against her.

"How are you feeling, Shree?" RK asks, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Shree offers him a faint smile, her heart heavy with the burden of her circumstances. "I'm okay, father-in-law. Just a little tired."

Lakshmi interjects, her voice laced with urgency. "RK, we need to call Madhav and tell him about Shree's condition. He needs to know she's pregnant and needs him by her side."

RK's brows furrow with uncertainty, but he nods in agreement. "Of course, Lakshmi. Shree, should I call Madhav?"

Shree's response catches them off guard, her words carrying a weight they hadn't anticipated. "No, don't call him."

The room falls into a stunned silence as Shree's words hang heavy in the air. RK and Lakshmi exchange bewildered glances, unable to comprehend Shree's sudden refusal.

"Why not, Shree?" RK asks, his voice tinged with concern.

Shree takes a deep breath, her resolve unwavering. "If Madhav truly loves me, he'll come to me without needing to be asked. I don't want him to come to me out of obligation or pity because I'm pregnant and helpless. I won't beg him to come to me, not when he left me when I needed him the most. I don't need anyone's pity or sympathy. "

Lakshmi places a reassuring hand on Shree's shoulder. "You're right, Shree. Love is not about obligation; it's about genuine care and concern. If Madhav truly loves you, he'll be here for you, no matter what."

Shree wipes the tears that started to flow from her eyes. "I don't want to force Madhav to be a part of our lives. I'll find the strength to face whatever lies ahead, with or without him."

RK's gaze softens with understanding, his heart aching for Shree's pain. "I understand, Shree. We'll wait for him to come to his senses and realize what he's missing."

Shree nods, her expression resolute. "Thank you. I believe he'll come for me when the time is right."

With a heavy yet hopeful heart, RK embraces Shree once more. "You're strong, Shree. We'll stand by you, no matter what."

That afternoon, Olivera visits Shree at the hospital. Shree smiles gratefully at Olivera as she sets down the sandwiches and fruits on the table. "Thank you, Olivera. You always know how to brighten my day."

Olivera returns the smile warmly before pulling her into a comforting hug, offering silent support. "Anything for you, Shree. We're all here to support you."

Olivera unwraps the sandwiches and offers one to Shree with a warm smile. "Here you go, Shree. I made your favorite, egg sandwich."

Shree accepts the sandwich with a grateful nod, taking a thoughtful bite. "Thank you, Olivera. This looks delicious."

As they eat, Olivera leans in, her expression thoughtful. "Shree, have you thought about finding a hobby to keep your mind occupied? It might help distract you from thoughts of Madhav."

Lakshmi, sitting nearby, nods in agreement. "Yes, dear. It's important to focus on something positive during this time."

Shree considers the suggestion, her brow furrowing in concentration. "Well, I could focus on my studies..."

Olivera interjects gently, "But what about when you're taking a break from studying? It's important to have something to occupy your mind then too."

A light of realization flickers in Shree's eyes, and she nods slowly. "You're right, Olivera. Maybe I could try something creative, like like - maybe baking."

Olivera's eyes light up with enthusiasm. "That's a fantastic idea! And hey, we could even sell your delicious cookies at the student community center during their weekly popup sale."

Shree's face brightens at the prospect, a smile spreading across her lips. "That sounds wonderful! I'd love to give it a try."

With a sense of newfound purpose and excitement, Shree and Olivera continue to enjoy their lunch.

Just then, RK enters the room, his presence commanding attention. Lakshmi's eyes light up as she turns to him, anticipation written on her face.

"RK, what's the news?" Lakshmi asks eagerly, her voice tinged with excitement.

RK's expression is one of satisfaction as he delivers the news. "I've found an apartment for Shree in Lewisham, not far from here. And I arranged for a caretaker to look after her as well."

Lakshmi's face breaks into a smile of relief. "That's wonderful news, RK. Thank you for taking care of everything."

To be continued...

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