Chapter 22: The Days That Felt Like Forever
The first morning of their trip, sunlight spilled through the sheer white curtains, painting the room in a soft golden glow. Niyati stirred awake, the cool sea breeze carrying the faint scent of salt and sand. As her eyes fluttered open, the first thing she saw was Vansh — lying beside her, hair slightly tousled, his face calm and peaceful.
She smiled to herself. What a perfect way to start the day…
A Morning Routine Like No Other
Every morning began the same — Niyati waking to Vansh’s face, feeling an inexplicable peace settle in her chest. He’d always catch her staring and tease,
“Good morning, my soulmate. Are you counting my eyelashes, my love?”
She’d laugh, lightly swat his arm, and he’d pull her close for a lazy morning cuddle, long before breakfast ever crossed their minds.
Exploring Together
Their days unfolded in warm, sunlit adventures — beaches that sparkled like scattered diamonds, hidden cafés tucked between quiet streets, and colorful local markets buzzing with life. Vansh never let go of her hand, guiding her through the crowds as though she were the most precious thing he’d ever held.
One afternoon, they rented bicycles and rode along the coastal path, waves crashing beside them. The wind kept tangling Niyati’s hair, and Vansh stopped, gently sweeping the loose strands behind her ear.
“You know,” he murmured, “this is my favorite version of you — happy, free… and mine.”
Her cheeks warmed. She whispered back, “Then I’ll stay this way forever.”
Little Things, Big Happiness
Evenings belonged to slow, quiet moments — the two of them seated on the balcony, sipping tea as the sun melted into the horizon. They talked about everything: their dreams, their fears, their silly childhood stories that made them laugh until their stomachs hurt.
One night, Vansh surprised her with a candlelight dinner on the beach. The waves hummed a soft rhythm, the music drifted like warm air, and the way he looked at her made time itself feel suspended.
Her Silent Happiness
Niyati had never felt so light. No calls. No meetings. No responsibilities. Just the two of them — weaving memories that felt like home. Every morning beside him, every shared laugh, every tender touch… it was pure magic.
And somewhere deep inside, she knew — this trip wasn't just a vacation.
It was the beginning of the life she had always dreamed of.
When Everything Changed
The months after their trip were wrapped in sweetness — dinners filled with laughter, evening walks hand in hand, and mornings shared over warm coffee. Vansh’s routine was simple: work during the day, return to Niyati’s smile at night — a comfort he had come to crave.
But one ordinary afternoon changed everything.
Vansh was in his office, reviewing reports, when sudden dizziness washed over him. His vision blurred. He gripped the desk, but his knees gave way, and he slid down against the cold rooftop wall.
A colleague hurried to him, splashing water on his face.
“Sir, are you okay?”
Vansh nodded weakly, but unease clutched at his heart.
The Diagnosis
The hospital smell of antiseptic hit him hard. After endless tests, the doctor walked in, his expression heavy.
“Mr. Mehta… your reports show Stage 4 blood cancer.”
The words crashed into Vansh like icy water.
“We must act immediately,” the doctor continued. “You need treatment abroad — as soon as possible. Please… don’t delay.”
Stage 4.
How would he tell her?
How would she survive this pain?
The Lie He Chose
That evening, Vansh returned home, wearing a calm smile that didn’t belong to him.
“You’re late… everything okay?” Niyati asked, her eyes searching his.
“Yes, my love… just a long day at work,” he lied, forcing a small laugh.
Later, she lay with her head in his lap, tracing soft patterns on his hand, unaware of the storm looming over their lives. Vansh watched her peaceful face, his chest heavy.
How can I shatter this smile?
She had already lost so much — her mother, her brother, friends she had held close.
He couldn’t bear the thought of becoming another wound.
The Decision
That night, while Niyati slept, Vansh made up his mind.
He would leave for treatment the next day.
No goodbyes. No explanations.
He would fight alone — if that meant she could stay untouched by this agony.
He stroked her hair gently, a silent tear slipping down his cheek.
If loving you means protecting you from pain…
then I will carry mine alone.
Forever.
