Rishabh led Preeta through the quiet corridors of the mansion, his pace steady and confident as they made their way toward Rukmini's room. With each turn, the hallways seemed to grow more secluded, the mansion's grandeur giving way to a softer, cozier ambiance. Preeta noticed how even here, everything seemed meticulously cared for, reflecting a warmth that felt different from the formality of the rest of the house.

As they walked, Preeta stole a few glances at Rishabh. In the quiet, she could see the side of him that wasn't just the poised businessman but something gentler, even protective. He glanced at her once or twice, a subtle smile at the corners of his mouth as if sensing her curiosity.

Finally, they arrived at a door that stood slightly ajar, allowing a soft stream of sunlight to spill into the hall. Rishabh paused, his expression softening as he turned to Preeta. "This is Dadi's room," he said quietly, his voice carrying a hint of warmth that she hadn't heard before.

He knocked lightly and opened the door, gesturing for her to step in first. As she entered, Preeta immediately felt a shift in atmosphere. Rukmini's room was bathed in natural light, a cozy haven filled with elegant but simple decor. Preeta could see that despite the grandeur of the mansion, Rukmini preferred a peaceful simplicity, with warm-toned furnishings, soft cushions, and a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers on a nearby table.

Rukmini was seated by the window, her figure wrapped in a shawl, her gaze distant as she looked out at the garden. She turned slowly at the sound of their arrival, her face softening when she saw Rishabh.

"Dadi," he greeted, his voice gentle as he walked over and took her hand with the utmost care. "This is Preeta, the therapist we talked about."

Rukmini's eyes shifted to Preeta, studying her with a look of quiet curiosity and warmth. Preeta felt the weight of that gaze but held it with a steady, respectful smile.

Preeta inclined her head. "Namaste, Rukmini ji," she greeted warmly, folding her hands. "It's an honor to meet you."

Rukmini nodded, her face breaking into a faint smile. "Namaste, dear," she replied softly, her voice kind yet discerning. "Rishabh has told me you'll be spending time with me." There was a subtle twinkle in her eye as she looked between Rishabh and Preeta.

Rishabh looked at his grandmother with a tenderness that touched Preeta. "Only the best for you, Dadi," he said, his tone filled with genuine affection. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze, as if to reassure her.

Preeta glanced at Rishabh in that moment, catching the soft warmth in his eyes, the protective side of him that she was only beginning to see. There was something deeply moving about witnessing his bond with his grandmother.

Rishabh turned to Preeta, a hint of encouragement in his expression. "I'll leave you both to get acquainted," he said, nodding to her as he moved toward the door.

He paused at the doorway, casting one last look at Preeta, his gaze holding a quiet intensity that lingered in the room long after he left. Preeta couldn't help but feel her heart flutter slightly as she returned her focus to Rukmini, knowing that her time with this family was about to uncover new dimensions-both in them and, perhaps, in herself.

Preeta cleared her throat softly, offering Rukmini a gentle smile as she approached and pulled up a chair beside her. She took a moment to observe Rukmini closely-the woman had a quiet grace, but her eyes held hints of weariness and pain, as if her body's struggles were beginning to take a toll on her spirit.

"Rukmini ji," Preeta began, her tone calm and warm. "I'm here to help however I can. Why don't we start with how you're feeling today? Are you experiencing any specific pain? Like, perhaps in your legs, arms, or even headaches?"

Rukmini adjusted her shawl and looked thoughtfully at Preeta, a faint smile on her lips. "Oh, my dear," she sighed, "I suppose it's not just one part. At my age, every joint has its own story to tell," she said with a soft chuckle, as if trying to lighten the mood. "But yes, my legs have been particularly troublesome. I used to love walking in the garden every morning. Now, it feels like a burden."

Preeta nodded understandingly. "I see. How long have you been feeling this way?"

Rukmini took a deep breath, her expression growing a bit wistful. "It's been coming on for a few years now... but it worsened in the last year. My legs often ache, and sometimes, I can barely make it up the stairs. My arms feel weaker, too, though I've tried to stay as active as I can."

"Is it just physical pain, or do you feel tired even when you're resting?" Preeta asked, noting the sadness in Rukmini's eyes as she spoke.

"Both, really," Rukmini replied, her gaze shifting to the window. "Some days, I just feel drained. Not only from pain but from... memories, I suppose. Life moves forward so fast, and sometimes, I feel left behind. Rishabh and Krushna are busy with their lives, and though they're loving boys, it's different when you have nothing to occupy yourself with."

Preeta leaned in slightly, her expression compassionate. "I understand. Feeling isolated, even in a bustling household, can be quite painful. You mentioned memories-would you like to talk about them?"

Rukmini seemed to relax a little, perhaps sensing that Preeta genuinely wanted to listen. "Memories..." she murmured, her voice soft. "I suppose that's what I carry with me most these days. Memories of my husband, of raising my children, of the friends I had. So many have gone. And now, in my later years, I feel like I am here, but life has drifted away."

Preeta placed her hand gently on Rukmini's. "Rukmini ji, it sounds like you're carrying a lot on your shoulders-both physically and emotionally. Sometimes, it helps to talk about the things we keep locked away."

Rukmini's eyes softened, and for a moment, she seemed lost in thought. "You know, dear, I've always been the one others leaned on. Even now, Avantika is always fussing over things. And Rishabh... he holds so much responsibility. I don't want to be another burden to him."

Preeta's gaze was warm, her voice gentle but firm. "You're not a burden, Rukmini ji. In fact, I think that you're the anchor in this family. But even the strongest of anchors need care and attention. If you allow yourself to heal and share your thoughts, it might lift some of the weight you're feeling."

Rukmini sighed softly, seeming to take Preeta's words to heart. "I suppose you're right. I've kept so much to myself because I didn't want to worry anyone. But sometimes... I do wish I had someone who truly understood."

Preeta nodded, feeling the depth of Rukmini's emotions. "Well, from today, I'm here for you. We can talk about anything-your aches, your memories, your frustrations. And if you need support from your family, I can help bridge that, too."

Rukmini's expression softened with gratitude. "Thank you, Preeta. You have a kind heart. I feel a little lighter already, just speaking with you."

Preeta smiled warmly. "That's what I'm here for. One step at a time, we'll work through this together. For now, let's focus on small things we can do to make each day a little brighter. And remember, you don't have to do it alone."

Rukmini took Preeta's hand, her eyes moist with emotion. "Thank you, my dear. It's been a long time since I've felt someone truly listening."

As they sat together, Preeta felt a deep connection beginning to form, sensing that Rukmini's journey to healing was just beginning-and that she would be there to guide her through it, step by step.