 
### THE LITTLE GIRL WHO CHANGED MY LIFE

### BY

### PRATIK DESHPANDE

### Copyrights 2015 Pratik Deshpande

The Little girl who changed my life is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except in the case of a reviewer, who may quote brief passages embodied in critical articles or in a review. © 2015 Pratik Deshpande, all rights reserved.

About the cover: Original design by Pratik Deshpande ©2015, all rights reserved.

### Acknowledgements:

This novel would never have reached in your gadgets if it wasn't for the few people who contributed their experience and invaluable time.

Alan sir, you have always imparted the positivity, every time we communicated. Thank you Balaji Aresh for guiding me and help me make a better writer. This time, you can't deny. Thank you Tejaswi for reading my work, and pouring in, the much needed confidence of being on the right path. Thanks my Indian readers buddies for helping me with the cover. T.K. your special input is right on the display. Last but not the least, Jyoti, once again I would never have reached here without your help.

P.S. Thanks Google and Microsoft word, as always.

### To my Soni tai
Table of contents

Chapter one

Chapter two

Chapter three

Chapter four

Chapter five

Chapter six

Chapter seven

Chapter eight

Chapter nine

Chapter ten

Chapter eleven

Chapter twelve

Chapter thirteen

Chapter fourteen

Chapter fifteen

Chapter sixteen

Chapter seventeen

Chapter eighteen

Chapter nineteen

About the author
Chapter one

26 December 2037

It was a cloudy, windy evening and the Arabian Sea's waves kept crashing on the surface near the Gateway of India. Usually it was families or couples listening to the soothing sound of the Sea, but today it made no difference as cheering of thousands of people gathered had replaced it. The banquet of hotel Taj Mahal, Mumbai was filled with all the big names that the press could write; The Prime minister, politicians, celebrities, businessmen, sportspersons including the former stars that had made the nation proud during their reign. The journalists were busy taking photographs to make sure the front page of every newspaper had enough to cover the mega event. But the evening was not about anyone of them; it was about Amit Duggal, the founder of Divya health care for kids and the person for whom the function was organized. Amit had been awarded the Nobel peace prize for the year for his outstanding efforts to bring the best of medical facilities at an arm's length for the homeless kids.

Thousands of people had gathered outside the hotel to watch the event on the huge screens and were now cheering for Amit to address them. The surrounding vicinity was lightened up and the lively hotel Taj was glowing like a day-night cricket match was on, with Sachin Tendulkar batting in the middle, back in his days. All the dignitaries had given their speeches praising the man of the evening for his selfless efforts and making the nation proud and finally the host requested Amit to say a few words. He reached the podium and waited for a few moments for the huge round of applause to come to a halt. The grey haired man with spectacles and slight Paunch, wore a plain white shirt and blue denim. He looked at the people sitting in front of him. His gaze stopped at four women who were sitting in the front row. One of them was old, in her seventies, one of his age, proudly looking at him, the third one slightly younger than him and fourth one, a young girl. He nodded as all four of them looked at him and smiled, the old woman wiping her tears.

"That's my mother over there in the front row, proud of me like you all, wiping her tears away to watch her son deliver his speech. Yes, I did give my speech at the Nobel ceremony. But this is the first time I will be saying something after winning the noble prize in front of you all, my home country." He said as he paused to take a sip of water. "Thank you so much for showering so much of love on me, but I would like to take this opportunity to tell you all that the amount of love you have given me, if you give a fraction of it to a homeless little kid, who don't have a family, and if that brings a smile on his/her face, trust me, you all will feel the same way I feel right now; Happy and satisfied. I have been trying my very best to bring a smile on every child's face, every day for the last twenty three years. Sometimes I have managed to, that gives me happiness, a satisfaction. Sometimes I fail, it disappoints me, but I move forward and give all my efforts the next day to try and not to fail again.

I started Divya health care for kids twenty three years ago, from then we have managed to save 57000 kids. They were suffering from some or the other disease, fighting for their lives; I made sure they get help and today when I go to sleep, I feel happy and satisfied for those smiles. But is that really it? Does that mean I have earned the right to be happy and satisfied?" He asked. There was silence all around, each and every pair of eyes looking at him for an answer. "No, as I have managed to save only 57000 lives. And yes, because I tried my very best to save others too." He continued "But are there just half a lakh kids in the whole world? I don't think so. I am not talking about those who have parents, who have a place to stay; I am talking about those little angels who don't have their mother's shelter on them. I am talking about all the kids who don't get proper medical facilities. And the reason I am telling you all this is because we have managed to save lives and inspired them to save others. Now this is something we all should look forward to. If I start some organization and manage to save half a lakh of lives, imagine what that half lakh lives could do if they intend to do the same." The whole banquet was filled with a thunderous noise of applause.

"The journey so far has been really great, I met many children, some of them smiling, some crying, some angry because they had just been given a needle in their bum, and some of them too small to even understand what is going around them, but it all started with one little girl. One little girl who changed my life, who changed the way I lived, who changed the way I look at life, who changed everything in my life. And I would request every Doctor in the country, every businessman, every politician, every single man and woman to try to help one little kid each and see the outcome, there is no need for an organization to be set up, there is no need for an Amit Duggal to give a speech. The population we have is enough to take care of the homeless kids. We don't need any organization as such, right? But then, it will take time, till then we have to work like this together to bring smiles on such innocent faces. I would like to dedicate my Nobel Prize to the one little girl." He paused, as he allowed his eyes to let go the tears they were holding. "I would also like to thank my wife," he pointed at one of the four ladies, who by now also had teary eyes, "My sister, my daughter and the person who stood by my side all through this and even before it all began, my mother. Thank you so much for supporting me throughout this journey and thank you my entire team of Divya health care, I would never have seen this day without you all." He wiped his tears and saw all the four ladies of his life wiping their eyes too. "I request you all to help poor kids around you, they are our future. They might not have anyone to look after them, but you can be everything they need. And as far as I understand them, every child has just two requirements, care and love, that's all they need to live. They may be staying at a shelter for homeless kids, but if you visit them, a small visit might bring a smile on their face. I know today's lifestyle is way too different than what it used to be in my youth, but who knows sacrificing a beer and donating the same amount might save a life. I have worked tirelessly for so long, and I will work the same way till I take my last breath, and that is my promise to you all. " He finished and there was another huge round of applause with a standing ovation.

Chapter two

Twenty Three years ago.

Like any other techie, Amit Duggal would also wake up late on weekends; late night chats with relatives and friends, as he would usually spend Friday nights at home, in bed, with his cellphone. Today was also one of the normal Saturdays which would start only after noon. Amit had completed his software engineering from Pune and got placed in a small IT firm in the tech capital of India, Bengaluru. Life was good, five days a week work, of which two were work from home. So just three days of office life a week ensured him being paid well for the month and also enjoy the luxury of a bachelor in a metro. Amit had a 2BHK flat which he shared with his colleague, Param. Both would have the same routine almost every month. But just one thing made the difference, Param was engaged and would spend weekends with his wife to be, this made Amit the rightful owner of the flat for every weekend.

He opened his eyes, and the first thing he did was unlock the screen of his phone. It displayed 1:36 PM. He scrolled down the notification panel to see two missed calls. One from his mother, and the second one from sister. He did what everyone would do; he called his sister first.

"What happened?" He said as soon as she answered.

"Is this the time to wake up? I was waiting for your call for the past two hours." She replied.

"It's weekend, you know I have a bit of work pressure," he lied trying to act like a busy elder brother.

"Okay, whatever. I want to buy two _kurtis_ that I saw on the internet this morning. Order them for me."

"And how am I supposed to know which _kurti_ you want?" He asked, smiling for his little sister's demand.

"I got a mail with a special offer, I forwarded it to you. You go through it and place the order." She said and without a moment's pause she continued in a loud voice, "I WANT IT. DON'T TELL ME IT WAS OUT OF STOCK. ORDER THEM NOW."

"Okay, let me check. Will call back later." He disconnected, checked his mail, and smiled again. The kurtis would look good on Shrishti. She was 16 years old, and from the day Amit got a job, all her demands shifted from their mother to him. She would surf many things and would forward the list of things to be bought to her brother.

He placed the order and called his mother. That was a demand-less call. She just asked him about his lunch and told him the day to day chores that she had to do. After twenty more minutes passed in the bed, Amit was done replying 'Good morning' to each and every message he had received, it was brunch time for him. He looked at the room as he got out of the bed; the laundry bag was full and two of his shirts were on the floor, waiting to be washed. His laptop was down on the floor with charger connected and the door of his wardrobe was slightly open. _Damn, will have to fix this thing now_. He thought like he would normally do before forgetting again. The room was a perfect example of how the house would be if there were no women in the house. _Mom, I really miss you._ Every day it was in the morning, that he would visit the tea vendor, but being a Saturday, the visit was postponed to a big extent.

He looked into the mirror and thought of shaving the beard first, but then, he still had a day and half to get him a clean chin. He directly headed for the Tea vendor, which stood right in front of his building and was visible straight out of his balcony and the window too.

"Viraj uncle, one special." He ordered and sat down on the bench, with his eyes buried in his phone.

"Very good morning Amit _bhaiyya_." The vendor greeted him like always, with a smile.

"Good afternoon uncle, half a day has gone already," Amit replied.

"But for you, it's till morning _bhaiyya_. Here, take your special." He handed him his cup of tea and sat next to him. Since it was past noon, there was no one but the two of them at the kiosk.

"I don't know what to do with this girl here; can you come with me to the police station? We will hand her over to them," Viraj uncle said helplessly, signaling towards a little girl sleeping under a sack below his kiosk.

"What? Which girl?" Amit asked, taking his eyes off the phone for the first time since his arrival.

"There, below the stall." Viraj uncle said without looking at him, still starring at the little girl.

"Where did you find her? Who is she?" Amit asked again, looking at the girl curiously.

"I don't know _bhaiyya_ ; I found her here this morning sleeping on the bench. I asked her who she is. Where her parents are? Where she lives and all, but she started crying and didn't know anything. She told me her name as Divya. She is too small, I guess just 3-4 years old. And she is not well. I mean, she had fever and I had to prepare everything here, so I just gave her a glass of milk and since then she has been asleep." He replied, more worried about how to deal with the situation first.

Amit got up and went to her, he softly woke her up, she coughed, and pulled the sack over her again and went back to sleep. "Divya, wake up, let's eat something," he said and sat next to her. But she didn't move. Amit patiently waited there for a few more minutes and went back to Viraj uncle.

"We will take her to the doctor first, and then we will hand her over to the police." Amit said as he gulped down his first sip of tea.

"Doctor? Why would we take all that trouble, we will simply hand her to the police, after that she's their responsibility?" The tea vendor replied in the same manner as any poor man would do, to avoid trouble and extra expenditure.

"Uncle, she is just a small girl, and look at her, she is not someone who belong to a slum or footpath. She appears to come from a decent background, good family. I think she is lost. Her parents will definitely find her, but as for now, we have to take her to the doctor." Amit had made his decision.

"Okay _bhaiyya_ , we will go after 6 o'clock." He replied with a heavy heart.

"I'll take her to my room till then; at least she can have rest on bed instead of sleeping here. I 'll call you after six okay?" He said as he got up to leave. Amit picked her up, although not very good, but she was well dressed. As soon as he took her on his shoulder, her little hands tightened their grip around his neck. Amit came up to his flat on the first floor and was very careful while climbing the stairs. 'A small jerk and she would wake up crying' he thought. He kept her on the bed and pulled over a blanket. There was no disturbance caused. Divya was still sleeping; Amit stared at her for a while, and patted her forehead.

The next thing he did was to call his mother.

"Mom, I found this girl, 3-4 years old, sleeping under the tea vendor's kiosk. She is sick and I guess missing. What should I do?" He fired as soon as she picked up the phone.

"What?" The 'what' conveyed the shock she was in after hearing his question.

"I am taking her to a doctor first and then we will hand her over to the police. Me and Viraj uncle, the tea vendor," he told her of his plan.

"Oh my God! Amit take her to a doctor first and then straightaway to the police. I don't want you to get into any trouble if something happens to her." His mother's selfish but possessive advice hit him hard. _Why is everybody trying to get away from this little innocent girl? She doesn't even know where she is and people don't want to get 'involved'._

"What if somebody had found me this way, what you would have wished? That somebody keeps me safe or they don't get involved and let me die or be as it is? What's wrong with everyone?" He shot back at his mother.

"You don't know Amit, nowadays there are many things coming out in the news, I don't want you to get in trouble _beta_. You take her to the doctor first, but after that you leave her with the police or an orphanage." She replied.

"Fine," he replied and hung up. He kept looking at Divya. Somewhere he wanted to be there for the kid, but even his mother was right from her perspective. His phone rang, the loud noise made Divya open her eyes, Amit rejected the call and went near her. As soon as she saw him, she started crying. Amit took her in his arms and tried to comfort her by patting her on the back. "It's okay baby nothing's wrong. Everything's fine. Stop crying." He said as softly as he could and lifted her.

"Mamma," came the cry again. He took her in the kitchen and gave her a glass of water. She drank it as half of every sip spilled on the ground. Amit wiped her mouth with a napkin.

"You want to eat something Divya?" Amit asked her politely.

"Hmm," she nodded as she looked at him, confused, trying to figure out who the man was. He gave her some biscuits and she ate them immediately as she had been hungry for quite some time.

"Mamma," came the cry again after the biscuits were over.

"Ohhkay beta. We will find mamma." He assured her and took her out in the balcony, gently patting her back and kissing her cheeks.

"What's your mamma's name?" He asked her.

"Mamma." She replied honestly; with one of the few words she could speak. The reply was more normal and less teary. _There is no point is asking her anything else. She can't even speak. How did she manage to live after she went missing and how come nobody found her?_ Questions started queuing up in his mind. He patted her on the head and took her inside.

"TV," she said as soon as they got in the living room. Amit smiled, he switched it on and put on a cartoon channel. Divya's gaze was stuck at the cartoon now. He gently kept her on the floor and went back to see whose call it was. It was his sister Shrishti's. He called back.

"What?" He said as she answered.

"Maa told me you have a baby with you? Really?? How's she?? Must be cute _na_? Send me a pic." She said enthusiastically.

"Yaa.. she is in the living room watching TV right now. Hold on I'll send a pic. And don't call me directly, she was asleep and your phone disturbed her, so text me first". He said and disconnected the phone.

He went out, took a picture and sent it to Shrishti. "Divya, let's go. We'll go out for a walk and will get you milk. The little one got up immediately with her hands raised, ready for a tour. He looked around for the TV remote but it was not on the floor. "Where is the remote?" He asked, just to keep talking. She pointed a finger towards the TV.

"Limote." The little one said, to which Amit couldn't help but laugh.

"Okay. So there is the 'limote'. Let's go now." He said as he switched off the television. They went back to the tea vendor and Amit asked for some milk. Viraj uncle was ready with a small glass of milk.

"You look quite hands on with kids _bhaiyya._ " He said watching Divya sincerely gulp down the whole glass.

"Yes, she is not so hard to handle."

"You want more?" Amit asked her. She simply nodded negatively and looked at the vehicles that zoomed passed them. He took her around, to see if she remembered something regarding where she lost her parents, where she last saw them. But no, she couldn't understand anything. All she did was look around here and there, enjoy the walk and cough. Amit had to use his hankie to wipe the cough from her mouth. He sat down on a nearby porch and patted her back. _What's wrong with you dear, why are you coughing so much?_ He looked at her; she was sitting on his lap watching a street dog.

" _Hutt,_ " she shooed the dog which was already too far from them and looked at Amit. He too had to shoo him away now. They got back and Amit dropped her to Viraj uncle as he had to take a shower and get ready for a nearby doctor. But as soon as he left, Divya started crying, finally he had to take her with him. He locked the door from inside and switched on the TV to keep her occupied. The TV did the rest.
Chapter three

Fifteen minutes later he came back from the bathroom to see Divya asleep on the floor. He gently picked her and planted a small kiss on her cheek as he kept her on the bed. _Oh little piece of joy, how can you sleep so easily and so long?_ He pulled a blanket over her and got ready.

By the time it was 6 p.m. Viraj uncle had almost packed up and signaled Amit to bring her down. Amit woke her up and as soon as she opened her eyes, the first word she said was 'Mamma,' after that a huge outburst followed. Amit put on some music and danced with her, but as soon as he paused, the 'mamma cry' started again. After fifteen minutes of dance and other antics, instead of cry, 'Mamma' was followed by a smile. Amit gave her a tight hug. She kept leaning towards the living room and he understood it was 'TV time'.

"No, we have to go to Doctor uncle first, we'll watch TV after that." He said, to which another 'mamma' followed. He kept her down and switched on the cartoon channel. "Just five minutes okay? Otherwise I'll ask doctor uncle for an 'injection' in the bum." He warned in a bid to use the most common 'control the kids' weapon. But Divya hardly looked at him. There was a smile on her face as soon as her favorite cartoon character came on screen.

"Mamma.." She shouted with a broad smile and pointed her finger towards the TV table.

"Yes.. mamma." Amit too gave an affirmative nod. But she immediately got up and ran towards the table and 'bang'. A straight, flat hit and a huge, loud cry followed. "Wait.." Amit tried to stop her, but was late and then took her in his arms and straightaway kicked the table.

"Why did you hurt our good girl Divya? Huh? Take this," he kicked another one, shifting her attention towards the kicks.

"This is what happens when you play rugby with the table. Okay, he is crying. Let's go wash your face now." He said to her and kicked the table again pretending to be angry at the 'table'

"Umm," came the reply with very innocent teary eyes and quirky expression on the face.

_Shit! This won't do._ He remembered as soon as they reached the bathroom and saw the soap. As far as Amit's knowledge was concerned, the definition of a child was missing from his 'database' and so he ran out with Divya to buy baby soap. They got back, Amit washed her face, her hair, she did not cry even once, and let him do everything. He had to apply oil on her hair many times before he got the right amount for her shoulder length hair. Finally he combed them, and gave the 'finishing touch' with his fingers.

"Now that's my sweetheart." This was followed by two kisses on her cheeks. He kept her on the bed and said, "you wait here, I'll get the phone, till then you play with these keys, okay?" She just looked at him and took them, after that he regretted giving her the keys, as they immediately went to her mouth. "No no no no.. they are not to be sucked, I'll get a toffee, take them out." He pulled them out and she shot back right away by using her best feature, crying loudly. "Okay, take it." He had no choice but to surrender.

He checked the phone and was about to leave when he looked at her once again. She looked good, hair combed, clean washed face and as cute and innocent as any other child would look. The only thing was her dirty cloths. He gave another sad look to Divya and then took her in his arms and left.

Viraj uncle was sitting on the bench with his kiosk closed. "My god, are you married? You really are a good father I guess," he said jokingly and pinched Divya playfully on her cheek. She moved away from him and hugged back Amit. They headed for the auto stand but Divya shouted. "daaa.. da."

"What?" Amit and Viraj uncle both asked at the same time. She pointed a finger towards a _pani puri_ stall.

"No, you are already coughing badly, no outside food." He said and they proceeded.

"Mamma," she cried and started slapping Amit on his face and chest. He was enjoying the tiny palms hitting him.

"No No No. This Viraj uncle is very dangerous, if you cry, he will take you away." Amit warned her, as Viraj uncle immediately got into his character and showed her his big eyes with a scary noise. The effect was there to see and to stay. They took an auto and went to the nearest clinic and for the whole ride, there wasn't a single cry from Divya, danger Viraj uncle effect was on motion.

The pediatrician was a women and she was at her best when it came to having sweet voiced talks with kids. There were two patients before Diyva in the small clinic, partitioned by a wooded ply with animals painted on it. One of the patients was a three month old infant and Divya watched the baby very curiously. Finally it was their turn and they went in. Amit entered first with Divya on his shoulder, followed by Viraj uncle. The doctor, a lady in her late thirties, gave them a close look and said a big smiley 'hello' to Divya.

Amit waved her hand on her behalf whereas she was busy starring at yet another stranger, a woman for a change.

"What is your name _beta_?" Another sweet voiced question came.

"Divya," she answered the only question she could answer.

"Okay Divya, you want this?" She said and pulled out a sugar tablet. And before Amit could realize, the two females were done with their 'transaction'.

"So, what's wrong with her?" She asked Amit, the decent looking of the two.

"She has been coughing very badly and spitting a lot of cough." He replied.

"Fine, let's check, what is wrong with you." She said and lifted Divya, she let a cry of separation from Amit, but he too got up and went after them. The Doctor made her lie on the table and placed the stethoscope on her chest.

"Breathe in Divya." Amit said, in a bid to be of some assistance to the lady.

"There is no need for that; she can hardly take a deep breath." The pediatrician replied with a negative nod and continued "Who is the father?" She looked at him and Viraj uncle. Amit understood what she had misunderstood.

"No, we are not her parents. Actually, he found her this morning on his kiosk this morning, she was sleeping on the floor, so I took her to my place, fed her and brought her here as she didn't seem fine. After this, we are heading to the police to hand her over, so that they can trace her parents." He told everything.

"What? You found her?" She looked utterly shocked.

"Yes"

"Okay, take her to the cops, but before that get this scans done. She has got some really bad infection in her lungs, so take care of her as far as possible till the cops find her parents." She said and headed to her desk to write something down. By then, Divya was back on Amit's shoulder followed his lap as he settled on the chair. She started pulling the notepads that were on the table, and as an 'embarrassed parent', Amit told her not to. She didn't listen and took the notepad in her mouth. This resulted in a small 'scuffle' between the two and finally the 'dangerous' Viraj uncle had to step in to handle the situation.

"Here, I want you to have them right now. She is showing symptoms of a severe infection in her chest. There's a hospital just behind this clinic. I have written everything here. They will give the reports in half an hour. Get those and bring them back to me. Once we know her health status, we can hand her over along with the medications. I usually don't take patients on Sundays, but given her age and the infection, I don't want any delay, if it gets too late, give me call today if I am not here" She said, not giving Amit any chance to say a word.

"Yes sure, thanks." Amit replied, more worried regarding why the urgency regarding the x-rays. They left the clinic and were now at the hospital's reception with the prescription in hand. It looked like a special arrangement between the clinic and the hospital, as they were directly sent to the X-ray department and didn't even have to wait in the queue.

Chapter four

The procedures took some time as Divya was scared when she was put in the scanner. As the bedded table went inside the illuminated tube, Divya would get up and crawl out, fearing it would take her away. They made her sleep again and tried carrying out the same procedure, but she didn't listen till one of the assistant slept on the table and assured her that it wouldn't be taking her anywhere. Amit was there by her side throughout, and had to keep talking to her.

They were waiting in the lobby for the reports, with Amit wondering how quickly everything was over. He glanced at the prescription once again, there was an 'urgent' written on the right hand corner on the top. _Okay so that's the reason everything got over so quickly without any hustle. What's wrong with you? Why the doctor looked so curious?_ He caressed Divya's forehead. She was sleepy and rested her head on his chest.

" _Bhaiyya_ I think this is getting too costly and serious, it would be good if we hand her over to the police now itself. I don't think they will be fine with the fact that we have kept her with us for so long before reporting them." A frightened and worried Viraj uncle said to Amit.

"I know that. But we can't just let her be with them if she has got so serious infection. You saw how serious the doctor was. I think instead of police, we should take her to an NGO or a child shelter. They will also make sure that she is being given medicines and taken care off. There is no assurance that the police will give immediate attention, if needed." He replied and paused to see a worried Viraj uncle regretting helping the little girl.

"The doctor also said that the infection and her age was a worry. What if something happens to her? Imagine the feeling if something bad happens to her, I mean, we could have helped her but we chose to stay away from 'trouble'. And I don't think helping a small lost girl who can barely talk, is calling for trouble." Amit said trying to act strong. Somewhere he knew, that Viraj uncle was right to an extent, but Amit's heart was not ready to let Divya go, till he was certain that there wasn't any serious health issue.

Both of them were quiet and Divya was asleep. "She has not eaten anything today, just biscuits and milk. Now she is already asleep. Don't even know what her routine is. When she eats? When she sleeps? It's just so freaky to be in a situation like this." Amit said looking at her, stroking her hair. A few minutes later, the receptionist called them with a huge envelope in her hand.

"How much?" Amit asked her, handing Divya to Viraj uncle and reaching for his wallet.

"Seven thousand three hundred." She replied looking at the computer screen to cross verify the amount.

"What? Seven thousand three hundred?" Amit asked in a shocked, louder voice, audible enough to people around, as they turned their heads to see what happened. Viraj uncle on the other hand looked down to avoid the cost sharing. The amount of money he made every day was around Rs. 800, and giving away half the amount was also challenging for him. Also, 400 rupees were not even ten percent of the amount, so he let Amit take the blows.

"These are complicated scans sir, they are costly, and you may talk to the doctor if you want to confirm the amount." She said helplessly, understanding the shock Amit had just received. This was one of the normal scenarios of Indian hospitals, they treat you like one of their VIP patients and then all of a sudden, a five-six figures bill shows up, taking you an inch towards bankruptcy. She knew the amount was big for a normal man who has been asked for a few scans, but she too couldn't help.

"Can I make card payment here?" Amit asked with his debit card in hand.

"Yes sir, you can." She said placing the swiping machine on the desk. Just in a matter of half an hour, Amit was poorer by Rs. 7300 and that too for a total stranger, who was now back on his shoulder, asleep, unaware of the surroundings.

" _Bhaiyya_ we should better hand her over to NGO or police, this is getting too costly for us." Viraj uncle said like any middle class man, who was more worried after the huge amount Amit had just paid for the reports. Amit was quiet, he didn't say anything. _These are complicated scans sir.._ The words were still echoing in his ears. He patted Divya on her back.

"Let's see what the doctor has to say first." He said after a considerable silence.

They were back in the clinic and the doctor asked Amit to keep Divya down on the table so she could sleep. She looked at the reports and raised her eyebrows at the first sight. She examined the reports repeatedly, again and again with serious looks. She placed them back in the envelope and wrote something down, but this time, it was not a prescription.

"I think it is more complicated than I thought as there is a huge tumor in her lungs, I am not sure whether it's malignant or not, but that doesn't seem good at all. I am referring you to Dr. Vohra, He is an oncologist. I'll place him a call for an urgent appointment." She said handing the note to Amit and again taking out the scan reports.

"See this huge white spot in her chest, that's the tumor and that is the cause of her severe coughing. Now, it will require a surgery if it's not a cancerous one, but if it is, then we have a serious problem. That's why visit Dr. Vohra tomorrow morning. And take her to an NGO; they will take care of her. But Dr. Vohra is a must see." She said pointing out the large white tumor in the black x-ray image of Divya's rib cage. Amit was shocked to see as well as hear what the lady had just told him, Viraj uncle too sat numb. They left clinic without a word between them. Viraj uncle then broke the silence

" _Bhaiyya,_ I think we should take her to an NGO for the night." He was still persistent.

"No," Amit replied firmly. "I am not letting her go anywhere till it's clear she is fine. Uncle you go home now, I'll look after her. Don't worry." He had made his decision. He knew his heart wouldn't let Divya go away in such a situation. And he was just following his heart, his instincts, he knew it was wrong and against the law to keep a lost child, but was not ready to let her go, especially after learning about the tumor in her chest.

He reached home. Divya was still asleep, coughing but asleep. His tiffin was near the door, he opened it. It was the normal everyday rice and watery _rassam_. He kept Divya on the bed and cushions around her to make sure she didn't roll off the bed, while he left to get milk for her. It was getting harder for him to deal with the situation alone. Looking after a very sick small girl was something he was not prepared, never even imagined something like this would even happen to his own child. He called his mother on his way back.

"Hello, did you drop her off?" She asked as soon as she answered.

"No, not yet," his voice was low.

"Why? I told you _beta_ , it's not right to keep a child with you. Her parents would be worried. The police would be looking for her everywhere and if they find you with her, and if it leads to some misunderstanding, it might cause trouble." She said realizing her son was under pressure.

"I took her to a doctor, she asked for X-rays and now we found out that there is a huge tumor in her lungs mom. Tomorrow I have to take her to an oncologist, to confirm if it's cancerous or not." He said and kept quiet.

"Okay, that's fine. But it's her parent's responsibility to take care of her. You take her to the oncologist, but after that, you are going to hand her to the police. And children don't live with strangers; they need their parents when they go to bed."

"That's another thing. She is fine with me. In fact I am the only person she has been with for the whole day. She is comfortable with me. I washed her face, her hair, took her out for a walk, fed her biscuits, it's not that she doesn't want to live with me either." Amit defended.

"Amit, _beta_ try to understand. It is not easy to look after a kid like this. What's her age? Do you have any idea how young she is?" She asked.

"No. I guess a year and a half or two at the most."

"Okay, have you given her anything for dinner?"

"No, she is asleep now. But I just got down to get a milk packet, I am feeding her rice and milk tonight." He replied somehow trying to win his mother's heart to support him in not letting her go away.

"Fine, don't make it too hot, give her lukewarm milk and rice. And also give her boiled water only."

"Yes," a childlike reply came out of his mouth.

"And tomorrow after the doctor, whatever the reports are, hand her over with them to the police. They will look into it and will take care of her treatment." This time her voice was stronger.

"Hmm.." a dejected, low toned voice came out and he disconnected the call.

He put the milk on the induction and woke up Divya. This time, she did not cry. He took her and went out in the balcony. There was not much traffic and Amit started showing her different stars and the moon. Every time he told her to look at something else, she would do it obediently.

"See that's Viraj uncle's stall. The danger Viraj uncle." He pointed his finger on the other end of the road.

" _Hutt,"_ she shooed the stall. Amit laughed out. And he too shooed it. She still kept looking at the stall.

"Mamma," she said pointing her finger near the stall. "Mamma," she said again this time with her hand reaching out and the small fingers calling for her mother. Amit watched her hand, the tiny palm closing and reopening again. He kissed her on the cheek and on the hand as well. To his surprise, she touched her lips on his cheek and made a sound, sounding like a kiss.

"Oh my god. Little baby just want to kiss me huh? Here give me another one on this cheek." Amit said bringing the other cheek forward. She again touched her lips and made the same sound. He grabbed her tightly against him. "Mamma.." she shouted again looking at the kiosk.

"That's danger Viraj uncle's stall, shoo it away, that's not mamma there. Mamma is in office, she will get back soon. Shoo danger uncle's stall." He said, diverting her mind again.

" _Hutt,_ " she said with her hand gesturing as if she is really hitting the stall from the balcony.

"Ohh shit, the milk." Amit ran inside after he smelled it, almost forgetting about the it. It was very hot. He switched off the induction to let the milk cool down, which led to postponement of Divya's dinner by a few minutes. But she wasn't hungry and she did not even complain about being hungry. He sat on the floor.

"Hussshhhhhhh!!" He let a sigh of relief. Divya laughed her heart out after the drama. The innocent loud child laugh made Amit realize how pleasant it was to see a little baby laugh. He held her close to him, got up, ran again to another room, sat down and again said a big 'hussshhhhh,' she laughed out again. This thing continued for next five-ten minutes and by then milk was drinkable. He mixed it with the rice and fed Divya. Initially she refused to eat as she wanted the 'run and husshh' drama to continue, but danger uncle Viraj's mention led all the milk and rice in her tummy. He switched on TV, there was football league match on, but today was an exception. Today he switched to cartoon and watched 'Popeye, the sailor man' and his little baby made Divya laugh.
Chapter five

He watched cartoon after a long time and it brought back the memories of his childhood. He was surprised to see himself remember the whole Popeye song as well as the music in the end, which he mumbled along with the song. Divya fell asleep in his lap. It was surprising to see her fall asleep so easily. For most of the day, she was sleeping, thus relieving some pressure off Amit. He lifted her gently and took her to the bed, the little palms were partially closed, her neck, a bit tilted, but Amit made it straight, without disturbing her. He ruffled her hair playfully. But she moved her head, signaling 'it is troubling me, stay away'. Her red frock with blue strips was muddy. He brought a towel and one of his short t-shirt.

"Divya, just a minute, we'll change your dress and then you can sleep." He said slowly as he lifted her to remove her frock. It was not easy and he ended up opening her eyes. She did not cry as he immediately took her in his arms. But she was awake. Her eyes were sleepy and she had an angry look but the sleep was more aggressive. She wore a diaper inside.

"Oh, so that's the secret of a non-wet day." he said slowly and removed it. He cleaned her and wrapped her in the towel. He tickled her left feet. A genuine laugh came out instantly and she moved her leg away. Amit put her in the t-shirt which covered her full body and she looked cuter in the 'baby gown.'

"Okay now sleep. It's too late. We have to go to the doctor tomorrow morning." He said and pulled over a blanket on her. It took her just ten more minutes to fall asleep and Amit had to sing a song to complete the formalities. He just starred at her, her shoulder length silky hair, little lips, a small nose that was busy breathing. She was fair and cute, Amit assumed one of her parents must be good looking to pass on such looks. From her overall appearance, he was sure she was not abandoned. She belonged to a decent family, or at least her parents were so. He smoothly kissed her on both the cheeks and kept starring at her, playing with her little fingers and palm, as having taken care of her for the day without any major hiccup, made him more confident, and proud.

He checked his phone and there were a lot of messages. The strange thing was that he didn't even bother to look at his phone for the whole day. From the moment he brought her home, all his thoughts were consumed in looking after her. He kept the phone on silent mode and ignored all the messages. He took a pic and sent it to Shrishti with a 'Good night'. Although it was just a few hours, Amit found himself highly attached to Divya and the reports acted like catalyst making her, his responsibility. For the first time in many years, Amit switched off the lights of his room early and was in bed without his phone. Even to his surprise, he was asleep early on a weekend.

It was around 3 a.m. when he felt something wrong. He moved uneasily in his sleep, but suddenly remembered that he was not alone, and his hasty movements might hurt the little one, he got back his senses and immediately moved away, but the damage was done, her hand slightly came under his back and a small cry was about to come, but he took her close to him and patted her on her chest. She was back to sleep. Again the uneasiness popped up and he carefully moved away and moved his hand around to get a feel. _Ohh no.. I should have bought diapers or at least kept a plastic under the bed sheet._ He thought, feeling the wet bed. He got up, switched on the lights to see the big wet spot. He shifted her to the other end of the bed, kept a plastic bag and changed the bed sheet. Everything was quiet, but he could not sleep as her constant cough kept him up and he had to comfort her every time to keep her asleep.

The night had passed and he slept around dawn, but a little later, a tiny palm pulled his nose and cheeks. He woke up with a smile and held the fingers. "Mamma," a cry started. Amit was taken aback by this and took her in his arms, but she didn't stop. The early morning cry was a mixture of severe coughing as well. A usual cry does not always means tears follow, sometimes, it's just a gimmick to get something, but there were tears in Divya's eyes. He sang song, ran throughout the house, sat down and said 'husssshhhhh'. All she wanted was her mother, any child of her age would want to see its mother in front of them, and she was no exception. The cries were constant and Amit too had tears in his eyes. He just couldn't see her crying anymore. _How can I bring your mamma here right now? I am sorry for not letting you go, but you are not fine sweety, I have to take you to a doctor. After that we will find your mamma._ Finally he switched on the television and changed to a music channel. She stopped crying after one of her favorite song started. Although she was not crying anymore, her eyes were still teary. Amit gently wiped them, without diverting her attention off the song.

He then gave her milk and played with her for a while till she was back to normal. Every time she remembered her mother, the TV would be of big help. After the sun was out and shinning, he took her out for a walk before having tea at Viraj uncle's. He greeted her with a smile and gave her a pack of biscuit, she took the packet and turned away. Everyone present there laughed at her gesture. They then shooed some street dogs and bought diapers. A small shop was open, which reminded him of buying her dresses; the early morning didn't have many shoppers and the duo were out in half an hour with two frocks. The choice was obviously her's.

He gave her a bath, got her dressed and a diaper. _No problem for the whole day now. Thank god for inventing diapers. They really are life savers._ He then applied oil on her soft hair, combed them and kept her on the floor in front of the TV. She looked cute and tidier than the day before.

"This one for right and this one for left cheek. Here we go my sweet little cutie." He said as he kissed her on each of her fluffy cheeks. _Damn, I am tired already. It's not at all easy to be a mother. Don't know how I might have been for mom_. He thought, thinking of his own mother too. Till Divya was busy watching TV, he again gave her milk and biscuits, after that a nap was eminent and he too welcomed it, as it gave him a slight window for taking a shower to get ready for the oncologist's appointment.

An hour later, the Amit-Divya duo was in a cab, heading for the oncologist. They reached the hospital, the pediatrician had made the call and they had a special Sunday appointment. This time too, they were sitting for their turn, but with a difference, instead of sitting on his lap, Divya was on a separate chair. Even though she was unaware of the surroundings, Amit's heartbeats were increased as four other patients around, were bald. The reason for Divya to be there was to some extent known and certain, but he wanted to know the truth and was also fighting his thoughts to defy the possible realty. After a 45 minute wait, finally it was their turn.

Dr. Vohra was a man in his early fifties with surprisingly huge amount of black hair on his scalp. Amit sat on the chair and kept Divya on the vacant one next to him. His cabin was a plush one, with a huge bed for the patients to lie down. There were a number of images of different types of cancers and some horrible images too, that had post-surgery patients in them. Amit looked away.

"So Divya's got severe cough and a tumor here. Deepthi told me about it and gave a fair idea. Show me the scans." He said referring to the pediatrician. Amit gave him the reports. He looked at it.

"We'll have a couple of more test and scans right now. This doesn't seem good to me. It would be a waste of time to speculate, let's get this over with the test results so that we can have a proper picture and course of action ready." Dr. Vohra said and made a call to one of his assistants. Within a minute a young woman was in the cabin, ready to lead Amit, to carry out the tests. The test included another CT scan and injecting a device in her veins. The CT scan situation was a familiar one for Amit to handle Divya, but as soon as injecting part came in, the assistant, Amit and another couple of girls had to step in to get the work done. After everything was done, it took another half an hour to stop the 'umm' cries. He took her out to a small restaurant for lunch, after a long tour of a nearby mall and a dose of coconut water; they were back at the hospital after two hours. The tests results were out and they were again in Dr. Vohra's cabin with CT scan reports on a white board clearly displaying the image if Divya's brain.

"Amit, please sit, we have a problem here." He said as soon as Amit entered the cabin along with Divya, who had fallen asleep under the air conditioned hospital's cool vibes.

"What serious problem?" Amit asked, he knew the answer to some extent. 'It's a malignant tumor,' he thought, but still tried to somehow avoid the truth.

"It's very complicated, but you have to know this," he said as he moved towards the X-ray boards. "This tumor in your daughter's chest.." he was saying but before he finished the sentence Amit finished it in his mind _is a malignant tumor._ ".. is a malignant tumor." Dr. Vohra approved the worst fears in Amit's mind. He continued, "She is suffering from Small Cell Lung cancer. The problem is that this type of cancer is a rare one, and grows very rapidly. Usually a smoker is diagnosed with this type of cancer and only a percent of cases are found, where the patient is a nonsmoker." He paused to see a shocked Amit holding Divya in his lap.

"This cancer is very aggressive," he continued "and is often detected after it has spread enough. In Divya's case too, it has passed the limited stage, and has reached the extensive stage. My guess was right so I got the CT scan of the brain and as you can see, it has spread to the brain also. You see this two spots?" he asked, pointing the two ring like structures in the X-ray image. "This is the cancer here, and Extensive stage small cell lung cancer cannot be removed through surgical procedure. Since it has also reached the brain, the only option we have is a combination of chemotherapy as well as radiation." Amit was now looking at Divya instead of listening to what Dr. Vohra was saying.

"Amit, I know it's very hard to accept it, but you have to listen to what I am saying, there is no point in wasting time right now. It's already in her brain and her age would be somewhere around two years. There's more to come and you need to be stronger. You should understand how painful radiation therapy is and what the side effects of chemotherapy are. She is too small for this, so imagine what she will go through. If you breakdown rather than supporting her, how will she fight it out?" He said as he saw tears coming down from Amit's eyes.

"See, we don't have enough time, the cancer will continue to spread and in just one month it will reach the terminal stage where there would be no getting her back." The doctor said holding Amit's shoulder, trying to comfort him.

"She is not my daughter, the tea vendor in front of my house found her yesterday. She was not well, so I took her to the doctor yesterday before giving her to the cops or an NGO. But the Doctor asked for the scans and then referred you. I don't know what to do now, I have this innocent little kid who is dying I don't know what to do." Amit said looking at the X-ray images.

"Then you take her to an NGO first, they will take care of her treatment. But we need to start it now, at the earliest. We cannot afford to lose any more time." The Doctor said. "They will also take care of the expenses of the treatment. But tell them not to waste any time."

"When can the treatment start at the earliest?" Amit asked wiping his teary eyes.

"We can start the treatment tomorrow and decide how many chemotherapy sessions are needed and the amount of radiation exposure." The doctor said looking at the reports. "There are rare chances of recovery and even her body should be able to deal with the side effects. As for now, we have minimal chances, and exact estimation of her recovery can be done only after the first chemo session." The doctor replied at once, giving a glance of his experience.

"What are our chances?" Amit asked dryly.

"I told you minimal. And then everything depends on how she responds."

"Fine, I'll hand her to an NGO, will also tell them about the tumor and treatment." Amit said and left with the reports without saying anything further. The bill he had to pay for the visit amounted to Rs. 24,750 which included the scans and consultation charges. Amit had no option but to pay. _I am soon going to run out of cash._ He looked at a sleepy Divya as he walked out with utter shock and disbelief. As soon as the pediatrician had told him about the tumor, his mind had started imagining the worst case scenarios and all of them had just come true. He knew he was not strong enough to take care of her in a situation like this and see her suffer through the treatment. He had accepted he was not strong enough to face something so difficult and unimaginable.
Chapter six

Divya was asleep and he had to make a decision about whether to take her home or to drop her at an NGO before she wakes up. He knew it was not possible to take care of her all alone with his job too. _At least the NGO will have somebody to look after her every time. They can even provide better facilities._ He thought as he went through the possibilities and dropping her at an NGO seemed to be the best one. He hugged Divya tightly and went for the nearest NGO he knew, a good one with many kids in it. _It will also have somebody to play with her._ He tried consoling himself. He got into a cab and headed for the NGO to drop her off. All the while he kept looking at her face, the little busy nose, small lips and the big eyes which were close. One thing brought tears to his eyes and he couldn't resist them, she was holding his shirt tightly. He fought them and tried to control himself, but then he let them flow, as it was probably the last time he would get to see and hold her in his lap.

We help you. WHY as they were popularly referred to, was a midsized organization that also had a shelter for homeless kids. Amit's heartbeats increased as he got off the cab and headed to the entrance. He saw a few small children playing in the compound and they immediately gathered around the visitor with the small kid on his shoulder. Some of them were so curious, that they even tried to poke into the bag that he had in his hand containing the reports, but were disappointed to see no gifts for them. The noise they made broke Divya's sleep and the sudden huddled children sacred her. She hugged Amit tightly, he stood there trying to console her. The kids with a lot of hope in their eyes backed off as a member from WHY approached them.

" _Aye_.. everybody move away from them, let them come in." The middle aged woman said and asked them to come in. Divya was still crying and coughing. The woman tried to take Divya on her shoulder in a bid to bring her in control but she refused to let go off Amit and shouted more violently holding his shirt's color to get a proper tight grip in her small palms.

"No wait, she will calm down on her own, I'll just take her for a walk and will come back in a minute. So many kids might have scared her off." Amit said and headed out of the gate for a walk.

It's okay, they are gone now, and we will tell Viraj uncle to scold them for making you cry." He said wiping her tears and pulled her cheeks. He walked a few yards and turned back to enter the WHY premises again.

"Mamma.. mamma daa.." She mumbled, pulling him against getting back in there. But Amit fought her and said "We forgot our bag inside, and your biscuits are in the bag, do you want those kids to eat your biscuits?" he asked her, casually entering the gate. She was still looking at the kids, he looked at her face so close for one last time, her big dark black innocent eyes looking at the strange kids.

" _Hutt!"_ She waved her hand in air shooing all of them at once. " _bittit"_ she raised her hand with her palm calling them. He looked at her and understood what she was calling for. She was asking for her 'biscuits'. Tears rolled down his cheeks as he was making a fool out of her innocence. He was betraying her trust. She had held him tightly before and he was again leaving her in an unknown territory, with all unknown faces and a deadly cancer in her body. He stopped, allowing all the tears to come down. He wiped them and finally entered the building. He kissed Divya tightly on both her cheeks and hugged her, she was still looking at the kids playing in the compound and searching for her biscuits.

The same women who came to their rescue earlier came and asked Amit "Yes sir? How can we help you? What do you want?"

Amit couldn't reply. He looked at Divya instead. Her eyes, looking at the newly entered premises searching for something to catch on. The entrance was a small room with just two cupboards, a table, couple of chairs and a bench. "Just a minute," Amit said keeping her on the bench to their left. He reached for his wallet and took out two Rs. 500 notes. "I wanted to make a small donation," he said handing thousand rupees to the woman.

"Thank you sir, I'll get the receipt." She said and opened a drawer under the table, she was standing next to. She made a receipt and asked him, "By what name sir?"

He looked at Divya who was already watching everything and said "Divya".

"Divya.. what sir?" She asked.

"Just Divya would work, she doesn't even know she is donating now." Amit said with a smile on his face.

"Okay, just Divya then." She said and tore up the receipt and handed it to him. " _Bittit"_ Divya said. Amit laughed and picked her up as he understood that every time he gave money in front of her, he got something in return, but this time there was nothing.

"No that money was not for biscuits, they don't sell biscuits here. We get them at the store near Viraj uncle's stall." He said and walked out. _"Hutt,"_ she again waved the kids who misunderstood it as 'bye' and waved her back. Instead of making friends, Divya had made enemies at first sight. Right after they left the premises, he first bought her biscuits.

What happened few minutes ago had transformed him and he had changed his mind. When the kids came around him and saw the bag for gifts, he imagined if Divya's parents never found her, she would also have to spend her childhood the same way as them, looking for visitors to bring some gifts, and that hope would bring a smile. And when she resisted going to the woman from WHY, her struggle to not lose his company, and the slightest fear of going away from him with the trust in her innocent teary eyes was more than enough for Amit to change his mind. _I am not like my father. I am never going to abandon you._ "Even if you have to go through a lot of pain, I will be there to take care of you and I will try to give you all the happiness possible till you are with me and till we find your parents. I will not hand you over to the cops, if somebody comes looking for you, I will let them take you back, but until and unless you are fine, I am not wasting time in finding where you are from, instead of helping you fight cancer. I will take care of your every need and will make sure you have a smile. Promise." He said to her and gave her a tight kiss. She pushed him away with a slap on his cheek and nose.

" _Bittit."_ She said, pointing the packet in the bag with X-ray reports.

"Yes, Bittit." He replied with a teary smile and tore the packet, gave one to her and ate one himself. There was no problem as far as sharing the biscuits were concerned. They headed back and were home in the next thirty minutes which were more than enough for Divya to empty the pack of biscuits. They were received by Amit's flat mate, Param who was home at an unexpectedly early hour.

"Who's that?" He asked Amit who had a coughing Divya on his shoulder.

"That's Divya, Viraj uncle found her yesterday morning on the bench, I brought her up, her health seemed a bit low so we took her to a doctor, and now it turns out that we have cancer." He said punching her playfully on her tummy. "I took her to an NGO but I don't think she will be looked after properly, so I have decided to look after her and take care of her treatment on my own." Amit was finished with a brief, to the point answer.

"What about her parents, the police will find her eventually, you don't think that might cause trouble?" Param asked, playing with her nose, and hands, slowly irritating her.

"Her cancer is rare and is in extreme stage. We don't have time to find where her parents are, who they are and all? And I think that is a bigger trouble right now." Amit replied keeping her down and taking out the x ray images to show them to Param, who sat down next to her examining the little stranger. Param found her really cute and started pulling her nose, ear, cheeks, teasing her, with Divya pushing his hand away every time.

Amit brought the report and showed him the tumor in the lungs and brain. "This is why we have to start the treatment at the earliest. Because the tumor is spreading aggressively and it cannot be removed surgically." Amit explained. Param looked stunned after watching the reports and glanced at Divya, who now had Amit's phone in her hand.

"So what? Chemotherapy?" He asked.

"Yes, and radiation as well. That's the only way out." Amit replied.

"This is too much man. Look, you just met her a day ago. Don't get too much into it. It might look easy, but trust me, the responsibility will be huge. And if something goes wrong, you will be responsible." Param said going back to troubling her playfully.

"She is already dying Param. And if I am helping her against it, then I have no problem getting into trouble. I know it's just one day, but it's still too late. I mean, I would rather save her life first than finding her parents. And by the way, she is comfortable with me. I tried handing her to an NGO but she was scared, crying and didn't even left me for a moment. I cannot betray her trust. Right now, with a cancer in her body, I am the only help and hope she has got. Everybody else is distancing themselves from the 'trouble', but I am not giving up on her. No matter what, I am not giving up." Amit had done defending himself, and this time, it was a strong one that literally shut Param up.

"Fine, but.." Param was replying but suddenly got a hard slap on his face from Divya. The irritation had reached its threshold, and she had lost her patience towards the new man in the house. Two more slaps followed and she even pulled his cheek angrily, leaving a scratch of her nails on his cheek. Amit laughed and picked her up to stop Param from getting 'assaulted'.

"This is what happens when you mess up with a girl." He said and added "learn quickly, you are getting married in a couple of months." He said and went in with Divya. Amit changed her into another new frock that he had bought her and they were out again to get her some clothes that could be used during the night. It was another two hours of wandering and they were back with two bags including clothes, shoes, sandals and a couple of toys. Dinner was milk and rice for Divya which she didn't eat, finally a cup of milk, a number of stories and her mother's memories led her to sleep. Param saw Amit slowly put her to sleep and then put a diaper on. Watching the little one asleep melted him too and he gave up his bed and slept on the couch.

Chapter seven

Amit made a call to his mother and told her everything. She had no choice but to let her son take care of the girl. Amit being so responsible made her more supportive, and she also told him to ask for any financial help, if needed. Next morning he made a call to his office to get a leave, good relations with his manager sorted that issue. The early morning walk, Viraj uncle's biscuit packet and her ignorance to approve him, shooing the street dogs, everything went as per the schedule, but with one exception, Amit made her a small ponytail today, which made her look prettier than before.

They visited Dr. Vohra again and being a weekday, it was crowded than the previous visit. They went in and Amit greeted him with a smile.

"Sir, I have decided to take care of her treatment on my own, and after she is fine, I'll hand her over to the NGO." He said, playing with her ponytail.

"That's good then, when should we start the treatment?" The doctor asked.

"Today, if we can." Amit replied, "What would be the total cost of the treatment?" He asked the most important question.

"Depends on how she responds, as per my estimations, she will have to have at least four chemo sessions and radiation too. Each of this will cost around Rs. 1,20,000 to 1,50,000. per cycle. If she responds more positively than expected, then we might have to reduce the cycles, but if not, then 6-7 lakhs are a minimum." He said raising his eyebrows, looking at his table. After that he gave Amit a puzzled look. _Six-seven lakhs??? Damn, I just have around two lakhs of savings. Don't even have a house of my own and still he says 6-7 lakhs 'minimum'._

"Take your time, think again, we can start it tomorrow." The doctor said, assuring him.

"No that would mean another day lost. I'll arrange the funds, we'll start it today itself." Amit replied making calculations in his mind.

"Fine." He said and made a call. The same assistant was in the cabin and Divya started crying as soon as she saw her.

"No she won't be giving an injection today." Amit tried, but there was no soft corner for the lady in Divya's heart. The assistant took them to another lobby and explained Amit everything about how much time the first session will take.

"We'll give her chemotherapy first, given her age, we'll give her in three days instead of one sitting and sir will then decide on the radiation." She said and asked them to wait in the lobby for some time. Amit had bought Divya a few lollypops to keep her occupied and during this waiting time, they were keeping her busy. She also asked Amit to deposit money first and he was prepared. He asked Divya to sit quietly and went at the counter to give the cheque. The first cheque amounted to 70000. He signed it and handed it to the receptionist and turned to see Divya, who had found a companion, a young girl was sitting and talking to her. The receptionist gave him an acknowledgement for the payment.

"Is there any scope of discount?" He asked her.

"You will have to talk to Vohra sir about it. If he agrees for some, then we can grant, otherwise there is no discount policy at present." She replied negatively. _No discount policy, that means beg our doctor, if he feels like, he might allow 'discounts.'_

He went back to Divya who was busy with her new friend. Divya was in her lap, sitting comfortably. "You are an expert with kids I guess, because she don't easily go to strangers." he said to Divya's new friend, as if he was not a stranger to Divya.

"Yes, I offered her a chocolate to lure her." She said with a smile. "So what happened, why are you people here? I had a friend who had to undergo some tests here, I was waiting but just got her call that she won't be coming, so was about to leave when I saw this cutie pie here." She said frankly, playing with Divya's cheeks.

"Actually she has got lung cancer, and it has spread to the brain, so we are here for her first chemo session."

"Oh my god! I am so sorry." She paused and asked Amit "Where's her mother?"

_I don't know._ "Actually I found her two days ago, and her health was not fine, so I took her to a doctor, but she asked for X-rays and then the tumor and cancer and everything happened so fast that I thought she should be treated first, as we don't have enough time since the cancer is in extreme stage, her parents can be found later."

"Oh." She had nothing to say. "That's so generous of you." She managed and continued, "But don't you think her parents might have already started the treatment?" And for the first time since finding out about the cancer, he too gave it a thought.

"I don't know, may be or may not be, I'll have to ask the doctor about it." He replied thinking how foolish it was of him to ignore such a big fact.

The assistant called them in, as they got to leave, Divya refused to leave the new girl.

"Let her go, otherwise that madam will give you a needle." He said signaling towards the assistant. But Divya didn't budge.

"Mamma." She cried, pulling the girl's _dupatta_ as Amit pulled her away.

"I will call danger Viraj uncle if you don't listen to me now." He warned but her voice and coughing had increased and people around were looking at the whole scene.

"Okay, okay! I will come along. Don't worry, I have a day off. And she is not listening, so I don't mind accompanying if it's easing things for you." The girl said as she got up with Divya.

"I am so sorry she is taking your time." Amit said wiping Divya's tears.

"It's okay, that is nothing as compared to what you are doing for her. It's the least I can do. And by the way I am Nisha Gupta." She said bringing her hand forward.

"Amit Duggal." He smiled did a formal handshake. Divya was on her shoulder looking at the handshake. The assistant then made her sit on a chair along with Nisha and started the hard part as she inserted a syringe into her hand. It took them fifteen minutes to stabilize Divya and fix a pad around her wrist to keep the syringe safe. The second syringe made sure that the assistant was Divya's number one enemy. Nisha was with Divya the whole time. She also controlled her and as the pain reduced, Divya eased to sleep. The drops of medicine, an orange fluid, started going in her body. The first injection was done in fifteen minutes. Dr. Vohra came to have a look around. Amit asked him as soon as he saw the man.

"Sir is there any chance, that her parents might have known the cancer and had already started a treatment somewhere else?"

"No, hair loss is a side effect, fatigue, nausea, vomiting all that might have followed. You take a look at her, even though she is weak, there's still a lot of strength in her body. If she had received chemo before, she would have been a lot weaker than what we have now. Plus, there were no signs of any medications to reduce the tumors. So I am of the firm opinion that she was not diagnosed before and that's why I said we have to start it at the earliest." He took a notepad and penned down a number of medicines. "This will minimize the side effects to some extent. But your real test starts now. Every day is going to be longer than usual." He warned and saw Divya sleeping.

"It's good she is asleep. Make sure she doesn't run around a lot as she might faint because of the weakness. And always keep someone around her." He said to Nisha, who was holding her in her lap, and was about to leave when Amit called him again.

"Sir, I need to talk to you for a moment." He said and rushed behind him.

"Yes." The doctor asked plainly, knowing financial issue was about to come up.

"Sir, what are the chances? I mean you just said the days are going to be longer now, what does that mean?"

"See, she is just a kid, and she is going to go through a lot, so the most important thing for you as a parent.." he corrected "I mean as a guardian is to be strong and patient. That's what I meant, and I told you about the chances, everything depends on her response to the therapy."

"Sir, one more thing, is there any scope of discount?" Amit asked with a lot of hope in his eyes, "I have around two lakhs, and I am applying for a loan in my company, but incase that doesn't work out, is there any reduction in fees from your side?"

The doctor looked at him and gave a straight reply, "I'll see what I can do." The next moment, he was gone.

The medicines prescribed, amounted to Rs. 26,000 that would last for two months. The prescription was accompanied by an envelope which contained schedule for radiation therapy. 'Monday to Friday for the next three weeks between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.'

"What? Radiation therapy for three weeks and that too for the whole day?" Amit asked the assistant shockingly, wondering how he would manage his job and Divya's treatment simultaneously.

"Yes sir, radiation therapy will reduce the weakness, pain that comes with cancer." She replied politely, getting his confusion. "And it's not for the whole day; you can bring her anytime between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It won't take that long." She replied with a causal smile, as Amit saw her gathering the empty bottle of orange fluid that had just been given to Divya.

"How much more of this?" He asked pointing the bottle.

"Three, tomorrow and day after. That's it for the first session."

_Thank god. Just three days. I can't see her like this._ They left the hospital. Nisha accompanied them till they got a cab. She just kissed Divya bye. They got home. She didn't do much that evening. He took her for a walk, she didn't seem interested in the street dogs either. He gave her the tablets which she refused to take at first, but then Amit warned her that he would finish all of her medicines. As he pretended to take 'her' pill, the selfish child in her came alive and she pulled it out of his hand and ate it.

"TV" She said with a clear voice. After half an hour she was asleep in his lap again when Param came.

"How was the day?" He asked Amit.

"Better than expected. Don't know what's more to come, but today was in control." He said and all of a sudden Divya vomited on his lap and the 'in control' just got out of control. "Oh shit!! What the hell. What's wrong with her?" He said waking her up, but she didn't move. Param who had just removed his shoes was stunned.

"What's wrong man, she was sleeping and now vomiting and not moving, should we go to a doctor?" He rushed to Amit to help him out. Amit patted her again, he was scared too, but was very calm.

"Divya?" He slowly said shaking her a bit. She woke up, unaware of all the panic. He took her to the bathroom and cleaned her, changed her into a new dress. She was too sleepy and slept again in no time.

Amit too changed and called Dr. Vohra on his emergency contact number.

"Sir, This is Amit, we started Divya's chemotherapy today. Sorry to disturb you at this hour, but Divya was sleeping and suddenly vomited. Is there anything wrong with her?" He asked, his voice hitting all the nodes of the panicked category.

"Hello Amit. Listen, calm down, there is nothing to worry. It's the chemo therapy that's acting. Its normal and you will have to get familiar with all this. These are the side effects and we can't help them. You gave her the medicines now?" He asked.

"Yes, she even had a light dinner."

"Good, don't force her to eat at once, feed her as per her convenience. It will take some time to settle but once we are through, everything will be normal." He assured Amit.

"Okay, fine, thanks a lot sir." Amit said with a sigh of relief.

"That's normal, it's just the chemotherapy showing its side effects." He told a tensed Param, who was on his phone running a Google search for 'vomiting during sleep'.

"Thank god, but this is getting scary Amit. What if something abnormal happens?" A terrified Param asked.

"I don't know, I don't know man, I am just scared. Please don't talk about all that right now. Let's deal with the normal stuff for now." Amit said lying next to Divya.

"You do have a lot of guts, to do so much for a kid you barely know is not common nowadays. I would have freaked out after knowing about her cancer and all, but you stuck by her side. I mean, there are NGO's and many shelter home for such kids, but how many them get so good facilities, like immediate treatment, and personal care like you are giving her? I am proud of you man, you didn't abandon her." Param came and gave him a high-five. He got up and hugged Param.

"Hey, I have an idea. We'll keep a plastic under the bed sheet. So even if she pukes, we can simply change the sheet." Param said reaching under the bed to get a huge plastic bag that came with the television.

"Yaa, this will do, we'll tear it up and put it under." Amit said and lifted Divya. Param did the rest and their bed was now 'liquid' proof. As usual Param slept on the couch and sacrificed his bed for Divya. That night she threw up two more times. Next morning was a busy one for Amit as he had to wash her clothes first and then head for the hospital. He extended his leave, but knew it was time to confront his manager and tell him everything.

Chapter eight

The day was busy for him after Param left. He gave her a bath, careful enough to keep the needle and the pad undisturbed. The pad was a big support to her constantly moving hand. Amit had warned her if she touched it, he would leave her with Viraj uncle, he even called him from the balcony once, to make it look real. The baby soap, the talc, the hair oil, and the nicely combed hair had changed the combination altogether, as Amit looked ugly in front of her. There was no time to take a shower, a small face wash and deodorant was it for him. They reached the hospital at around 11 a.m., and to their surprise, Nisha was already present.

"Hey, look at the sweet little baby? On time huh?" She pulled her cheeks. Divya immediately plunged on her. "How was the night?" She asked Amit.

"She vomited three times, but apart from that, it was fine. She doesn't like the medicines. So that's a problem. What are you doing here today? Your friend's appointment?"

"Naah.. She is not coming, I came here for Divya. Thought might lend you a hand to help her out." She said kissing Divya on her cheeks.

"Thank god.. thank god.. thanks a lot. I mean I don't know how to thank you, but I really needed some help." He said joining his hands and jumping with a big relief. "Look at her. She is not even paying any heed to me, selfish girl. I'll take you to Viraj uncle today. You just wait and watch." He said punching Divya playfully.

" _Hutt!"_ a pale tired 'hutt' came out. She didn't need his support anymore as her new friend was there for her. Both Amit and Nisha started laughing. The second day of chemo was easy as there was no pain of inserting a needle. She resisted at first but Nisha held her close and it was done quietly. Another twenty minutes and work was done. The therapy was powerful for the little one, and her body was experiencing the cancer killing fluid's impact after going in.

"Okay, so that's it for the day." Nisha said sitting on a chair as they were about to leave. "See you tomorrow sweet little pig." She said, patting Divya slowly, who was about to sleep. "I'll make her sleep so that she doesn't cry when you leave."

Amit sat next to her. "Nisha are you free today?" He asked.

"Yeah, why?" She asked without looking at him, still patting Divya.

"Actually, can you do me a favor by coming home and looking after Divya for the day? That would be great as I have got and talk to my manager, I have been lying to him about being sick. I'll ask him if I can increase my work from home days, that way I can spend more time with Divya and be there." He said looking down at the floor, shying to look at Nisha. "If it's alright, if you are free, only than say yes." He added.

"Hey, Amit, what are you? Are you out of your mind? Come on, I came here today just for Divya, and if I can come here, then why can't I spend a day with her? Don't worry. I'll stay with her. And don't ask me something like this again. If you have some work, then just say it. I'll take care of her. Relax." She said angrily at first.

"Fine, let's leave. She would be better at home on bed than here in the hospital." He said with an awry smile.

"Yeah.. let's go." She got up carefully, not disturbing the very sleepy and quiet Divya.

They took a cab, Amit was a bit relaxed. For the first time, Divya was not on his lap while returning. He rested his head, and closed his eyes.

"Amit," Nisha said softly.

"What?" He opened his just closed eyes.

"Sorry. I was rude. You are already doing everything you can on your own. So if you want some help from me, don't ask, just say it. Okay? I am just a student, so I can spend the whole day with her, don't worry about that. I Promise, I'll do everything I can to help you out." She said stroking Amit's shoulder. "And even if your manager doesn't allow more work from home days, don't worry; I'll stay with her during the days. So just relax. You don't have to take all of it alone. Already you have done a lot. Just give yourself some time to unwind."

"Yeah. I hardly slept yesterday. I am sorry too." He said looking out of the window. _I'll do everything a father will do, I'll never give up on her. And I am sorry for being weak only after one day, But I will surely not give up. I'll be there for her till she needs me to be._ He thought as the memories of his father leaving them came back to him.

Amit was ten years old and Shrishti had just turned two, when all of a sudden one evening he heard his father talking to his mother. "I can't take it anymore. I don't feel like spending the rest of my life with you three."

"What do you mean? His mother asked.

"I have another person in my life, who gives me a reason to smile. I feel like living a life with her. Here, it's just responsibilities. There is no life here."

"Shree, are you alright? Do you even know what you are saying? You are a father of two. Get yourself together."

"Yes I know what I am saying, and to keep it simple, I will straightaway come to the point. I don't want to be with you, I don't want to spend the rest of my life with you anymore. Yes I admit I made a mistake by marrying you, but now, I can't take it. I can't stand it. I want divorce. You keep the house, keep the money, and just let me go, let me live a life."

"What? What did you say? What's wrong with you? Shree I love you, you love me too, we have two small children, and everything is fine, why you are saying something like this?" She said, her voice trembling.

"No, nothing's fine. I hate you, I just don't want to lie to you. I am staying away from you people, I'll then file for divorce and that's it. You live your life and let me live mine."

"Shree, I don't know what you are talking about, and why you have been ignoring us for the last few days, but we have our children my dear, at least for their sake, please think straight." She started crying, coming to terms with the sudden abrupt conversation.

"I have been ignoring you because I love someone else, who is that person, its none of your business. As for the children, you keep them. I don't care for.." She gave him a tight slap before he could finish.

"Don't say a word against my children. Get out. Just get out of here. And live your life with whoever the bitch is." She said.

"What did you say? I was keeping it simple, but now I won't." Amit heard his mother being slapped. She cried loudly. He went in to see what was happening, his father came out rushing and pushed him out of his way and went out. Amit fell down, he didn't get hurt, but got up to his mother who was crying. She hugged him and Shrishti too, who was playing on the bed.

His whole life changed that day. He never saw his father again. He remembered his grandparents visiting them for the next few months and her mother talking on phone that she was officially divorced. He had lost all the respect he had for his father. As he grew up, he gradually understood how big the thing was for his mother and how their father ditched them for another women. The hatred only grew as he started understanding life more practically. He saw his mother deal with the heartbreak. For her, her husband was the whole world, her biggest support, her backbone, and after a few months of ignorant behavior, he had dumped her with two kids and had left with just a five minutes conversation and a slap.

From then, Amit had become her biggest support. It was not that they were homeless without money, as his father had left the house, savings and everything. It was only the man who had gone, everything was still theirs. He did not even ask for the custody of the children. Amit last saw his father during one of the court proceedings, where he had come with his 'lover', accompanied by his elder sister. She talked to Amit, Shrishti and their mother nicely, but she too was helpless. After that, it had been more than 14 years since he saw him, yet his father pushing him and leaving the house was still fresh in his mind. The anger, the rage, was still clearly visible on his face, even though the image was more than a decade ago old; his brain had still kept it intact. His father died eight years ago and none of the three attended his funeral. His mother had tears for some time, for the love he had given her before leaving them, but Amit, he didn't even feel like anything happened.

From the day he took Divya to the pediatrician and the X-rays showed tumor, all the memories flooded back. He remembered the little Shrishti. For her, everything was her brother, there was no such thing as father. She would cry on his shoulder after being scolded by their mother, would ask him to get something that has been refused by her mother, because of her mother's job, he would pay visit to her school on their mother's behalf. After she grew up, it changed to some extent, but still Amit was her 'list of demands' man. And he never let her down, he was there for her.

Divya was of the same age, as that of Shrishti when their father had left them, and he again wanted to be there for her, he wanted to prove that he won't abandon the little girl like his father did. He had seen Shrishti suffer a life without a father and didn't want Divya to suffer the same till he was there.

They reached Amit's house. He guided Nisha and Divya to the bedroom. It was messy. He cleared the bed and made some space for her. Nisha kept her down and pulled a sheet on her adjusting her hand with the pad supported needle. "I should leave, it will be good if I catch him alone and explain things thoroughly." Amit said applying deodorant again.

"Yeah, you leave, don't worry about her. I'll stay." Nisha said resting next to Divya.

"You ate something? Must be hungry right? My tiffin is here, eat that, I'll eat outside."

"No, I am not hungry, I had lunch before leaving." She tried but Amit insisted her on having a second lunch and he left.

His office was on the fifth floor and he was in the lift thinking about how to go about the issue and present it properly in front of his manager. A couple of colleagues waved him, he gave a small smile and directly headed for his boss's cabin.

"Sir," he said knocking on the glass door.

"Yes, Amit, how are you? Come in. What are you doing here today?" Mr. Narayan, his manager said, he looked bemused.

"Sir, sorry to interrupt you like this, but I have something serious to discuss." He said to his very friendly manager.

"Yes, go ahead, what is it?"

"Sir, I found a little girl at the tea vendor's kiosk last Saturday and she was not fine, so I took her to a doctor, and it turned out that she is suffering from a rare lung cancer. I tried handing her over to the NGO, but she wouldn't leave me. And I too felt like betraying her, so I took her home and have myself started her treatment. Sir, if I don't take care of her she might not make it. She needed help and I just couldn't resist myself from reaching her out. Sir I just wanted permission to have one extra work from home day per week, so that I can take her to the radiation therapy and look after her by spending as much time with her as possible." He took his phone and showed him the picture of Divya, the one he had sent to Shrishti while she was asleep. "This is the girl."

"Oh, she is really very small and cute." Mr. Narayan said with pitiful eyes. "Can't believe she has got cancer. Look at her, she is sleeping so quietly." He said remembering his 7 year old daughter.

"Even I can't believe it. Once her treatment is done, I'll find her parents and hand her to them, but right now the doctor said we don't have a lot of time for that stuff." Amit paused for a while, Mr. Narayan was done looking at the photo and was handing him his phone. "Sir, is it possible, if you can gave me an extra day till the treatment is over?" Amit asked, taking his phone back.

"Oh come on, I am not that inhuman to not to let you take care of that girl. Take your time, work from home for two days, and take three per week if you want. But make sure you treat her, and if you need any financial help, I am just a knock away." He knew there was no problem at all, Mr. Narayan was always supportive and the friendliest of the managers, but his intention to help financially as well had taken Amit by surprise.

"Sure sir, and thanks a lot." He said getting up.

"It's okay, I can't imagine something happening to my daughter, so how can I let you stop from protecting someone, someone you don't even know. That's really very kind of you Amit. Feel free to call if you need any help whatsoever." He said with a smile. Amit left with a big relief, he called Param and told him everything that Mr. Narayan said. It was a big surprise for him too.

Chapter nine

Amit reached home, he bought some snacks on his way back. He opened the door, everything was quiet inside. Amit slowly went into the bedroom to see Nisha asleep with Divya in her arms. He took a snap of both of them sleeping, with Divya holding her _kameez's_ sleeve in her hand. He didn't disturb them. He saw Nisha, she was young, around 23-24 years old. She was not one of those make-up clad modern day chicks, but an altogether simpler looking conservative girl. Her black hair tucked behind, were now loose. But her helping and candid nature had immediately caught Amit's eye. She was just the supporting hand Amit needed and had boosted his morale to a new high. The big responsibility, he first thought when his mother told him was now not so big. He let the duo undisturbed for the next half an hour, but as it turned dark he woke Nisha up.

"Nisha, it is getting dark, you should leave."

"What? Yeah" She woke up, with her hustled hair "I'll wash my face and leave." She carefully set aside Divya's hand and left for the washroom. Amit looked at Divya and saw that her dress was different than the one she was wearing before he left.

"You changed her dress?" He asked Nisha as she came out to get her bag.

"Yes, she vomited in her sleep. She has been sleeping since you left. I think it's the side effects, fatigue and vomiting. Look after her and don't panic if she throws up again. I'll see you tomorrow at the hospital around 11-11:30 am., fine?"

"Yes, totally fine. You seemed quiet handy with this dress changing and all." Amit replied, deep inside he was happy that she was hands on and was taking care of Divya with ease.

"No, I am not handy, but I always wanted to do so, never got the chance." She smiled and went out. Amit followed her to the door. "Okay, take care and call me if there is a problem." She said remembering not exchanging their numbers. "Hey, give me your number."

Amit gave her his number, she dialed it and gave him a ring. "Save it."

"Text me after you reach home. And be careful." These words came out spontaneously from Amit.

"Yeah, I will, now bye, getting late." She responded with a smile and left.

Amit closed the door behind and immediately there was another knock. _Ohh I forgot this.. sorry.... Women and not forgetting is impossible._ He opened the door expecting it to be Nisha again, but it wasn't, instead it was a tired Param standing, holding his back.

"What's wrong? 'Fighting' with fiancée?? Must have kicked you in the ass, but your evasive measures might have resulted in the broken back" Amit asked very energetically, laughing on his own joke.

"Shut up. Where's Divya?" He asked pushing Amit aside. "I got her these pastries, and it's just the same back pain." He said putting the bag in his hand down.

"Quiet, she is asleep." Amit said pressing his own lips. By then, Param was in the bedroom with excitement.

"Divya, see what is there in the bag." He said gently, shaking her briskly.

"Damn it, leave her, let her sleep." Amit pushed him away, as the two men tried their respective best to do what they were up to. Divya who was sleeping, opened her eyes but Amit patted her on her head, and even though he tried his best, the sleep was broken. She didn't cry, but was silent unexpectedly as she sat upright. He picked her, "You want to eat something?" Amit asked.

She just nodded and rested her head on his shoulder. "I knew she might be hungry," Param said slowly, pumping his fist in the air, cherishing his victory of anticipation. Amit was still patting her gently. "That's not the way you wake her up. That's not the way you wake any baby up." Amit said opening the box of pastries. She looked down at the box.

"Cake!!" She said and reached the box with one hand.

"Yes, nobody is taking that away from you, it's all yours." Amit said, but she had leaped and her hand was full of cream. "No wait.." he again tried to stop but she was sucking the cream. Amit kept her down and fed her, she ate half of it and threw everything out a few minutes later. Param was scared again, "Son't worry, at least she ate something. Its normal, the doctor told me yesterday." Amit told him. It was getting difficult to give her the medicines, she was resisting them, and it took both of them around half hour to somehow complete the day's dosage. He checked his phone before going to bed and there was a message from Nisha that she has reached.

She again woke up at midnight, crying, trying to get rid of her dress. Amit called Param and the panicked duo helped her remove the dress, but then she started scratching her chest. "Mammaa..." the cries were growing.

"What happened? Something bit you? Is it a mosquito?" He asked lifting her and walked across the house. Param checked her dress to see if there was something inside that might have caused trouble, but found none.

"Okay, we will kill him, where are you, you dirty mosquito, I'll kill you, how dare you bite our little Divya?" He shouted, bringing the cries to a pause and started waving his hand in the air, trying to catch the imaginary mosquito. She too followed him and waved her hand. All of sudden Amit slammed his hand on the wall. "There you go, next time you trouble my baby, and I'll throw you out of the house."

" _Hutt!"_ Divya too did the necessary formalities. He wiped her teary eyes, but her babbling kept on for the night. She slept around 4 a.m. Param left for office without disturbing the duo. As soon as he went out, the doorbell rang. "Damn it, who is it?" Amit said as he opened his eyes covering Divya's ear with his hand. She was asleep. He got up and headed out. "Param's gone," he said in his sleepy voice. He opened the door and to his surprise it was Nisha.

"Hi!" She said with a smile "Just getting up? I thought instead of meeting at the hospital, why not come here early and help you out a bit." She got in. "Where's my little sweetheart?" She went directly to the bedroom.

"Thank you so much for coming. Thank god. You are a savior. She had some pain in the chest yesterday night, we hardly slept." Amit said lying on the bed as he pulled the pillow on his head.

"Chest pain? We'll tell the doctor about it today. Right now she seems fine." She lifted Divya and walked out. He looked at her. She had come early to help him out, and this had given him a small corridor to make up for the lost sleep.

Her hair was wet as she had just taken a bath and had left in a hurry. She let Amit sleep for another hour. It was around 10:30 a.m. when she called him. "Amit, wake up, it's getting late, we have to reach the hospital for the chemo. I have given Divya milk and also gave her bath. She is ready, tired and sleepy, but fine." She said patting his shoulder.

"Just two minutes." He said pushing her hand aside. She laughed.

"Hey, wake up, you are not a kid, she is ready outside and here you are still sleeping." This time she playfully punched him. "Get ready in half hour, we are already late today." Amit took only twenty minutes to get ready after that. He didn't even have to go out for tea as Nisha had already made it for him. By half past eleven, they were at the hospital.

The last and third day of the first session had started and Amit didn't feel any pressure, Nisha was taking care of everything. She was handling Divya pretty well. He called his mother and told her everything about how Nisha was a big help and things were now in control. He caught a glimpse of Dr. Vohra and rushed to him disconnecting his mother's call midway.

"Sir, I have a small question." He said slowing down from the small sprint.

"Yes what is it?" The doctor asked.

"Yesterday night Divya woke up crying of chest pain, I somehow calmed her down, but is there something to worry about?"

"No Amit, this pain is because of the therapy. The radiation will reduce the pain don't worry. How are you keeping up?"

"I am fine, got some relief from office too, so it's a bit easy."

"Good, take care." The doctor said formally and left. That day Divya was weaker than the previous days. They left the hospital and for the whole day she was with Nisha. Amit was tired a bit, but Nisha still looked fresh.

"I know you have not done anything and I don't even want you to reason me, so let's have lunch first" Amit said as they got into a cab.

"I am not hungry and I had a heavy breakfast." She replied, not giving up against Amit.

"Didn't you hear what I said? I said you cannot reason me out today. Eat something first after that we will see how heavy was your breakfast." Amit was in full command. She didn't reply as he was in no mood to negotiate. They had lunch. Divya was asleep on Nisha's lap. They reached home and Nisha told Amit to go to office. He left, but came back rather sooner than expected.

"Just two hours of working day?" She asked as soon as he entered.

"Yes, my manager gave me a day off. He has to be the best in the world." Amit said removing his shoes. "What's up with you ladies?" He asked.

"She is asleep. Vomited two times, but fine. I too slept for an hour. You freshen up, I'll make tea." She said and went in. _Oh my god, for the first time I came home and somebody's getting me a cup of tea. Thank god, this is the best thing in the world._ He changed and tea was ready for him. They both sat on the couch and had tea as Amit watched television.

"Keep the volume low, she might start singing." Nisha referred to her crying on a lighter note.

"It's good, you are not bad at it." Amit smiled.

"What? I am good at making tea."

"No, I am talking about looking after Divya, You girls got along so easily right from the word go. Look at her, she doesn't even leave you for a moment. And it's more than a relief for me that you decided to help me with this. And I realized it this morning when you came early and I got that one hour odd sleep. I wasn't afraid of facing all this alone, but God sent you out of nowhere to help me, or help Divya, I guess." Amit said looking at the TV.

"What you have done for her is also more than anything. Who helps a stranger like this?" She paused, "Okay, let's say you helped her, took her to a doctor but after that, you should have given her to an NGO, but you decided to look after her on your own. How much it costs?" She asked and answered herself, "Chemotherapy. Around a lakh rupees per session. And you are just blowing away your whole savings for a total stranger. Isn't that 'God sent you thing out of nowhere?' Amit, I am willing to do everything I can to help you out, help her out. And you don't need to say anything. For now, I just want to assure you that I am there for her too, so if there is any problem, you directly call me, no need to hesitate. Doesn't matter what the time is, just call me and I'll be there." She took a sip of tea, "You yourself said we two get along very well, so now if something goes wrong, promise you'll call me. Yesterday she didn't sleep. If you can't control her, just give me a call and I'll be here. Alright." She repeated the same thing she had told him and finished her tea. Amit too kept quiet and finished his tea, which was, by now, had turned lukewarm. He just looked at Nisha who was watching news on TV, whatever she said meant a lot. Whatever he was doing was exceptional, but she too, was trying her best.

"I'll call you the next time she disturbs me at night, okay Ms. lecturer?" He got up, took her cup and ruffled her hair kiddingly.

"Hey," she looked startled. "Not lecturing you, just admiring you. And don't play with my hair, they take a lot of time to set properly." She said as Amit vanished into the kitchen.
Chapter ten

She left fifteen minutes before Param came. Again Param had brought pastries, this time it was a different flavor. Divya didn't bother either of them, she ate, took her medicines and slept. No vomiting, no crying. Amit watched TV with Divya sleeping on his lap. He later took her in and she didn't utter a single cry. Amit slept within ten minutes after hitting the bed. She woke him up just once during the night as she had peed and the bed was wet. He had forgotten to put on a diaper. Amit changed the sheet and her dress. She woke up at 8 a. m. and both of them had a good sound sleep. Amit gave her milk and biscuits and took her out for a walk. As soon as Viraj uncle saw the duo, he came and gave Divya her pack of biscuits. She took it but kept her head rested on Amit's shoulder. The pack of biscuit that she was holding fell down. " _Bittit,_ " she said dryly as it slipped out from her small weak hand.

"Yes, I am getting it, your _bittit._ " He said as he bent down and picked it up. "I'll keep this in my pocket." She saw him keeping it in his front pocket and looked away to rest her head, only after she was certain that it was safe. His phone rang. It was Nisha's call.

"Where are you two? I am standing outside starring at a locked door here." She said sitting on the stairs.

"We just went out for a morning walk, will get back in two minutes." He said turning around. Even Nisha knew the two minutes weren't really two as it took them around ten-fifteen to come back.

"Two minutes huh?" She asked angrily, still sitting on the stairs in her red full sleeve top and blue jeans. Today, her hair was just bundled up in a clutcher.

"We were just around the corner." Amit defended. She got up to Divya and started scolding her.

"How could you two go out without me?" She said with her hands on her hips, ready to take on the little one. Divya who was quiet till now looked at her and turned away. Amit knew she was pulling her leg, he let Nisha take over.

"I asked you how could you go without me, huh? You want me give you a big punch on your bum?" She asked, moving in front of her eyes trying to make a contact. She turned in another direction again and Nisha held her cheeks to stop her from moving around.

"Say you are sorry." Amit said taking Nisha's side. But she was not in any mood to surrender and the sudden scolding had disturbed her calm sweet morning. She waved her left hand, the one without the syringe and it hit Nisha right on her nose. Two more slaps followed and Amit moved away to stop the ladies from getting into a brawl. Both he and Nisha started laughing as a highly annoyed Divya was trying everything to 'give it back.' She got her top's sleeve and pulled it. "Oyee.. stop." Nisha said and released her grip but then she got onto her hair that reached her palm. One pull and she was in commanding position.

"Ouuchhh.. do something Amit." She shouted for help and Divya pulled them more fiercely. Amit was laughing as he turned to see Divya's anger. Her teeth clinched together, the hand with the syringe away from the trouble whereas the other one holding her 'best buddy's hair.' Amit moved away and Nisha had to follow him as her hair was still in trouble. Amit hit her on the shoulder and said, "You scold my Divya again and this is what you will get." He then turned to the angry young one; "Let her go, she is crying," as he said, Nisha started her cry. He continued, "Oh, we have our biscuits here, take it, we have to eat them right? Viraj uncle had given us, come on let's eat them, otherwise they may get cold." He said diverting her attention. It worked. She released her hair and grabbed the pack of biscuits.

"So much anger, huh?" Nisha said tying her hair with a sigh of relief. " _Sho_ much angry my little bird. Come here. I love you." She said and kissed Divya on her cheek. "What are you waiting for? Open the door."

"I was just saving you from a bald spot." Amit said as he opened the lock.

"And by the way, that was so smart of you, 'biscuits might get cold.' Hahaha" She said with a sarcastic laugh.

"What?" He looked surprised. "It worked; she is too small to figure out whether biscuits are really cold or hot. Her business is to eat them, that's it. And yes, my smart move also saved you. So after you say thanks, you're welcome." Amit said as he opened the biscuit packet and gave one to Nisha. She looked at the hot headed owner of the packet and asked,

"Can I take it?" There was no communication from other end. "I guess it's a yes then." She took it.

"Good to see you early morning. It kinds of relaxes me." Amit said, handing the pack to Divya as he settled on the couch.

"What? Falling in love in just under a week's time? Hey mister, you have a girl to look after." She said switching on the TV, ignoring Amit.

"Hey, I was talking about my own relaxation. Nothing to do with love. Look at her, she could hardly hold the biscuits when Viraj uncle gave it to her and now, as soon as she saw you, how energetic she was. That relaxation. It kind of takes away my constant 'look after her approach.' Allows me to take some time off." Amit replied awkwardly, looking at Divya. There was an attraction towards Nisha, her wet bundled hair, her frank nature, her willingness to help Divya out, but Amit had not given it a thought, but as soon as she mentioned it, it all came to him in no time. He looked at her, she sat down on the floor near his leg and started changing the channels.

He looked at her, her earrings were simple, just two small pearls. The tied up hair added the much needed simplicity and as she started changing channels and got busy with the idiot box, Amit started giving a detailed look at her features. She didn't put any make up. It was as if she would get up, take a shower, and leave to reach Amit's home as early as possible. It was just the second day, but he could see her enthusiasm to be with Divya. During all this 'starring Nisha campaign,' Divya had finished the whole pack.

"Mamma," she said looking at the empty pack.

"Yes, I'll get water, wait." Nisha said and got inside to get her boiled water.

"You want to eat something more?" Amit asked her very slowly, trying to keep the calm Divya as it is. She nodded negatively. Nisha came with a small glass of water which Divya gulped down. After an hour the trio left for the radiation therapy. Nisha took care of all the proceedings including Divya which allowed Amit to leave for office directly from the hospital.

"Amit you too come home first and then go to office." Nisha insisted.

"Get a cab, it will take a lot of time if I come back and then leave."

"No you come home first. I am not going alone." Amit found her behavior very odd and frustrating at the same time.

"Please, you can manage that. You can even handle her on your own."

"No you are coming home with us." Nisha was firm.

They got home, had lunch and both the ladies slept within an hour. She knew her medications, their doses and Amit decided to work from home. He thought of everything that was going on and how he couldn't say no to Nisha, as if she had an influence on him. He ignored it and kept working. After a while he needed to write something down so looked for a pen. Nisha's bag was still on the couch. He opened it to get a pen but there was nothing other than a few papers. He searched all the compartments but there was no pen. Everything else was empty. _Student.. and not a single pen. Great. Surprised there is no lipstick or foundation or a small make up kit._ He kept it aside and got up to take a pen from the TV table's drawer but remembered that he had given all of them to Divya, to play. He went in the bedroom found one near the bed, but stopped to see the two of them sleeping quietly. Divya had slipped into Nisha's arms and it was perfectly quiet atmosphere for a sound sleep. He stroked Divya very slowly on her cheeks and forehead. He then shifted to Nisha. Her hair were loose and had come on the face. Amit carefully moved them aside. She was beautiful, he couldn't ignore it and stood there looking at her. He was falling for her, he knew, but somehow tried to control his emotions. She felt his presence and opened her eyes.

"What?" She asked sleepily.

"Nothing, just came here for a pen." He whispered and stroked her shoulder. "Go back to sleep, I am working."

"Yeah." She said and closed her eyes again. Amit smiled at this sleepy gesture of hers and left. After he left, Nisha opened her eyes to check if he was gone and gave away a faint smile. She already knew of his presence in the room.

Amit was back in front of his laptop thinking about Nisha. He looked at her empty bag again. _Idiot._ He thought on a lighter note. He was still looking at her bag and the thought shook him. He picked it up and checked again. He opened all the chains and rechecked them again. _She's got no money._ The thought had just turned out to be the reality. _That's why she asked me to come back here from the hospital. She didn't have money for the cab. You should have told me that, Nisha._ He looked at her bag, dejected. _But how could you, I know how awkward it sounds._

The truth that he had just discovered made him respect Nisha more. Whatever the reason was, even after not having a single penny with her, she had made it there so early in the morning. She was there for Divya. She too was doing her bit, more than what she could do. That evening when she left, Amit asked her if she had change for the bus, but she told him that a friend would be picking her up. Amit knew she was lying and he immediately got a 100 rupee note and handed her.

"Keep it." He said.

"No, I don't need it. Shreya is coming to pick me up." She replied picking her bag and kissing a very sleepy Divya who was sitting quietly on the couch in Amit's lap.

"I said keep it. I am not asking you if you need it or not, just keep it with you in case you need." Amit said firmly, looking directly into her eyes. She neither had choice, nor money. She took it and signaled Amit to take Divya in the bedroom for a moment so she could sneak out easily. Amit did so, but later Divya did cry for a while after she didn't find Nisha around. But by then, Param had arrived and the duo managed to fool her till she finally slept.

Chapter eleven

A week later Amit's problem increased when Param decided to leave and move in with his fiancée. The support he had after Nisha would leave in the evening was now missing, and had to find a new partner to share the rent. With all the heavy medical expenses around, he desperately needed someone to reduce the other expenses. Four days after Param left, Divya vomited three times after they got back from the radiation therapy which added more worries as Amit knew that night might be a tensed one.

"I'll stay over tonight. If something goes wrong, you might need someone to be around and since your partner is gone, if something happens to her, she might feel a bit secure with me around." Nisha volunteered. She looked at Divya who was paler than ever.

"Really? Are you sure you won't have any problem in staying over? You sure you will be comfortable around?" Amit asked.

"Yes of course, why should I be uncomfortable? I am already spending the whole day with you two monsters here for some time now." She said playing with Divya's small fingers.

"Fine then, I'll sleep on the couch." He said with a huge sigh of relief.

Nisha would keep talking to Divya for the whole day keep her occupied into something. Amit postponed bringing in someone to share rent, as Nisha would stay over every alternate days. They were into the third and final week of the radiation therapy and after a huge discussion, Amit and Nisha had decided to shave Divya's remaining hair. The fatigued little girl didn't even realize when the two adults shaved her head.

"She looks cute this way." Nisha said kissing the bald surface.

"Yeah.. cute." Amit said sarcastically.

"What?" She asked surprisingly.

"It's just hard to see her going through all this at such a young age. Look at her, most of the time, she is asleep, tired, and not aware of what is going on around her. She is being given so heavy medications that her body can hardly deal with the effects. When I first brought her home, she had energy, she would cry, shoo the street dogs and now she is just a sick body, bearing the pain and too weak to even react. You give her something to eat, she throws up most of the times. Her digestive system is now retorting to the heavy medications." Amit took Divya in his arms and sat on the couch.

"I know that, but this treatment will only improve her health further, trust me. I know this is hard, but we both are there for her, she is not alone, and we have to be strong. We have to make the most of each day we face." She said holding his hand. Amit looked at the sleepy bald head and planted a kiss on the cheek. Tears rolled through his eyes. He let them go down, Nisha wiped them up for him.

"Hey it's okay, come here. You're stronger than this. I know. You have been stronger on occasions when you had to take her to the oncologist, when you decided to take care of her alone and brought her home instead of that NGO, when you first took her for the chemo session on the first day, alone. She will be fine. Come here." She said and hugged them both. For the first time, Amit felt how important her support had been, she was there for Divya every time, but today she was there for him too. He called his mother and sister after that and they agreed to pay a visit.

Next day his mother and Shrishti visited, although still on bed, the two strangers made Divya uncomfortable and she didn't leave Amit even for moment when she was awake. His mother brought a few more new dresses for the little one and they even went out for dinner. Shrishti was busy entertaining Divya, but most of the time her funny antics turned out to be scary for Divya. Nisha avoided visiting them and even declined the dinner invitation. 'That would be too awkward for everyone,' she had said. Amit who by now, knew her pretty well, respected her comfort level and didn't force her. There was an understanding between the two, the other one would know how long things can be stretched which made it easier for them. Amit's family stayed for just two days as Shrishti had her exams. After they left Nisha was there at 8 a. m. the very next morning and Amit was more than happy to see her.

"Missed me?" She asked with a broad smile.

"Yes, whenever she cried, you were the only person I wanted to see." Amit laughed as she came inside.

"Where's my sweet baldie?" She asked heading to the bedroom.

"She is asleep, don't wake her up." but he was late, she had already lifted her, followed by a big hug.

"And yes, I missed you too." She said to Divya who was a bit annoyed by the early morning tight hug. But the warmth in the hug reduced the irritation and she closed her eyes again. She carefully got her into another dress and they left for the hospital.
Chapter twelve

Days passed and the three weeks of radiation therapy was also over. Divya had made it. She had survived the chemo and radiation as well as the side effects with a constant pain. Although the medicines were still an everyday business, there was a two day break and Dr. Vohra's appointment was big day for Amit as it was going to bring forth the outcome of the whole month's highly consuming first session. A couple of scans were carried out first and the moment of truth had arrived when Amit entered the cabin. Dr. Vohra greeted him and Divya with a smile. Nisha decided to stay out of the highly tensed moments.

"Well, look who we have here." He said with a smile as Amit settled on the chair with Divya quiet in his lap, observing the various things on the table in front of her. "Okay, what do you want? What are you looking at? You want this pen?" He asked pointing at a gold color pen on the desk. She immediately raised her hand to grab the gold object as he handed it to her.

"So, ready for the good new Amit?" the doctor said with a smile and 'the good news' lightened up Amit's face.

"Yes, definitely sir."

"The cancer in her brain has reduced by 70 % and the one in her chest has come down by 50 %. So it is party time." He said pumping his fist in the air, looking at Divya. "This is an incredible improvement. The response that she has given is with the same speed with which the cancer was growing. So I guess one more chemo session will wipe it up."

"Thank you so much sir, thanks a lot. Thank god. This is really a huge relief. I can't explain you what I am feeling right now." Amit said as he kissed Divya three four-times in the excitement. His eyes were teary and he wiped them with his hankie.

"I know what this means to you. But keep the medications on. She will be weak, but the important thing is to remove the cancer first. After that we can bring her health back to normal. And we will get a clear picture after the second session, but we to be very careful. As I said, this is a very rare cancer and only a few nonsmokers are diagnosed with it, there is a strong possibility of its reoccurrence, so we will have to keep a close eye. Everything else is fine, we will start the second session in two days. Let's hope this turns out to be the final one." He said jubilantly.

"Yes, I can't see her like this anymore. She hardly leaves the bed now. I do take her for a walk, but her energy is missing." Amit said, still looking at her. "Sir, I have a problem. I don't have enough money. My flat mate also left so I don't even have anyone to share the rent. Can you grant me some discount?"

"Amit, when I first met you, you were just a client, a patient. When you told me that she is not your daughter, I was kind of touched with the fact that you are helping a total stranger. Then you agreed to look after her on your own, where you could have simply handed her to an NGO. What you have done for her is exceptional, you are doing your bit and now it's my time to do mine." There was a pause. Amit, to some extent knew what might come. _Yes, I will charge you less, or pay as much as you can._

"I will not be charging anything from now, not even an appointment fee. So even if it's one session or the medication or anything related to her health, everything is on me from now onwards. Clear? You need not pay a single penny." Amit didn't expect a full waiver, he was speechless.

"I don't know what to say sir, how to thank you."

"You don't need to, now just go home, and rest. We have another session coming up. So better charge your batteries again. We have a long road ahead." Amit got up, and turned to leave.

"Give back the pen." He said to Divya, who, without any resistance gave it away. As he reached the door he turned, "Thank you sir, thanks a lot."

"Oh come on. I have a lot of patients, there is nothing big here. Helping her out is all I can do. Her parents would have done the same what you are doing." Amit nodded with a smile and departed with the scan reports and as soon as he saw Nisha he ran up to her with a smile, she understood what it meant and a teary tight hug which was about to come, also followed.

"She's responding positively, the tumors have reduced by half and he said one more session will wipe out the tumors." Nisha was not paying any heed to what he was saying, she was kissing Divya, holding her tightly. Amit let the 'kissing-hugging' ritual reach its completion and then started everything all over again. On their way back, they ate outside and Amit could see the sense of relief on Nisha's face after he told her about Dr. Vohra's waiver. Divya was unaware of why everyone around was so happy. She was sleepy for the whole day and had finally slept in the restaurant. Even though there was progress in the treatment, Nisha still visited her every day.

The second chemo session started and the first day turned out to be easier, as all three of them knew what was in the store. Amit didn't have to pay a single dime as Dr.Vohra had taken care of it. Nisha suggested a small cap for Divya and of all the patients in the hospital, Divya had become a style icon for others. Nisha stayed over that night and it was around 7:30 a.m. when she noticed a slight swelling on Divya's face when she was asleep.

"Amit, you see it? Something's wrong with her. Are you giving the medicines on time? Her face is a bit swollen, I think she has got an allergic reaction to something." She said. Amit was still thoroughly monitoring Divya's face. Nisha continued, with her own thoughts "But we didn't give her anything other than the normal milk and rice, even the water is filtered and boiled. What might have gone wrong?"

"Don't panic, we'll ask Dr. Vohra." He said calming down a worried Nisha and dialed dr. Vohra's number.

"Sir, Amit here."

"Yes Amit, what's wrong?" He asked, hearing the tensed voice.

"Sir, Divya's got some swelling on her face. Is there any allergic reaction or something related to the second chemotherapy session? Because, last time she didn't show any of these side effects."

"Anything else you noticed, that is a first timer?" Another question came, but the tone of his voice was more serious.

"Something else?" he said and also asked Nisha. She nodded negatively. "No sir, nothing other than this." He said and turned the speaker phone on.

"Okay. What about her urination? Is that normal?"

"She has not done anything since yesterday afternoon" Nisha said. "Not even during the whole night" Amit added.

"Okay, bring her to the hospital. And give me a call if I am not available." Amit disconnected the call and the calm and relaxed days had just got tensed after the call had been made. The duo reached the hospital in an hour and Dr. Vohra was in his cabin.

"Show me her face." He said as soon as they entered.

"I saw this today when she was asleep. She has not eaten anything and had been asleep for the whole day." Nisha's said restlessly as the doctor examined Divya. Dr. Vohra didn't say anything and made a call from his phone.

"Vinod? What are you doing?" He asked. Amit was looking at Divya who was in Nisha's lap.

"Why don't you come over here and take a look at my patient." Dr. Vohra said and waited for the reply.

"No, I want you here right now. Cancel your other appointments." He said firmly. The tension on Amit's face was clearly visible as he held Nisha's hand. There was another pause on the phone as the doctor waited for the answer.

"Don't reason me. I've known you for so long. I want you here in thirty minutes." The call was over. "You two wait in here. I have to get some reports and scans." He said as he took Divya from Nisha and left the cabin.

"Can I come?" Nisha asked.

"No. I'll be back in a few minutes. Stay here" He said as he closed the door behind him.

"He looked very tensed and panicked." Amit said feeling his own increased palpitations.

"What's wrong with her? We have been giving her each and every dose regularly." Nisha broke down. For the first time she was weak, Amit stood up and patted her shoulder.

"It's okay, Dr. Vohra will take care of everything. Don't worry, he is there." Amit was scared, but tried to act normal as he consoled Nisha. She was sitting on chair as she hugged him. He covered her with his arms stroked her hair. "It's okay, she's fine." He said but it didn't help. He kept quiet and let her cry. After a few minutes, she stopped. He was still holding her. She moved away and wiped her eyes with her _dupatta_. "Everything will be fine, don't worry." Amit said as he sat down on his chair.

"Hmm" She replied quietly looking at floor. She held his hand. He didn't say anything.

Half hour had passed since Dr. Vohra had left with Divya. The insecurity increased Amit's and Nisha's stress levels, as negative thoughts started exploding in their mind. "I have never seen Dr. Vohra so panicked before. You saw how he got out without telling us what was happening. There was urgency in his voice when he was on the phone." Nisha said staring blankly at the doctor's chair.

"We can't say what is going on till he doesn't come up and tell us. It would be really stupid if we keep assuming things on our own. He is the doctor, not us. You please don't panic. Just calm down and relax."

"How can I just stay calm and relax when she is not fine Amit? Tell me? How can I simply keep myself in control when all of a sudden the doctor panics and takes her away for some tests? No mother can watch her baby like this. Nobody can understand what's going inside a mother's mind when her baby fighting for her life." She said as she broke down again.

"Nisha" Amit got up and pulled her towards him. "Hey, it's okay. I can understand all this. But you are not her mother. We are not her parents. One day, she has to leave us. She will go back to her biological parents. So control yourself, we have to be strong to look after her, right? We can't break down like this. Come on, stop crying now." He said as he spoke the bitter truth. The thought of letting Divya go away was unacceptable for him too, but that was the only thing which could stop Nisha. She was quiet. She didn't say a word. She just looked at Amit whose cheeks were wet with tears. She stood up and hugged him.

"I know what you are going through right now. I know how difficult it was for you to say all this and accept everything." She whispered in his ears. Amit's grabbed her more tightly as his sobs increased. She too stroked his hair as she patted his back to bring him under control.

Chapter thirteen

Although it had been just a month since they met, they had grown very close to each other, to Divya. Both of them knew what she meant to them. All they would think was about her health. How to bring a smile on her face? How to feed her? What to feed her? Whether she was fine or not? Every thought that came to their mind was related to Divya. None of the three were related to each other. But still there was something that had brought them very close, a bond that was very difficult to break, and a relation that was very hard to understand. It was the same feeling that a couple would have if their kid had a serious problem, and Amit and Nisha, even though were not married, a couple, or Divya's parents, they still had the same feeling with respect to Divya. This responsibility, this care, and the support for each other had brought them more close. She was still patting Amit's back, he released her, and she wiped his tears with her _dupatta_.

"Sit, calm down." She said as they sat quietly, holding each other's hand for another ten minutes when Dr. Vohra entered the cabin with another man.

"Amit, I was right. She has got an infection in her kidneys which led to the swelling and urination problem." He paused and sat on his chair.

"What?" Amit and Nisha said together with utter shock. "Where's she now?" Nisha asked.

"I have hospitalized her. I am sorry I had to act fast, but with the tumor inside and the chemo therapy going, we must not take any chance, not even the slightest. This is my friend Dr. Vinod." He said pointing to another elderly man who came with him. "As I had said it was complicated, and a race against time to save Divya from small cell lung cancer, she responded to the treatment, but her body is taking the toll. The chemo, radiation, the medication, everything is just too much for her already weak body. The pace with which her body reacts is unusual. First, the tumor, they grew very aggressively. Second, the treatment, she responded very aggressively. Now her health, the kidneys, they got affected so fast that Vinod has advised immediate hospitalization. We will have to monitor her very closely. Even a small dip her vital figures and we are at war again and.."

"So what does this means? How do we deal with this?" Amit asked cutting Dr. Vohra's sentence in the middle.

"We go back to level zero. We first cure her kidneys and then we restart the chemotherapy. We will have to stop it for a while. The powerful drugs are hard to be broken down, the first session was fine but another dose of chemo and her kidneys gave it away. We cannot add more pressure on her kidneys." He replied.

"But what if the tumor starts growing? You said we have to capitalize this, what about that?" Amit asked.

"Can I see her, please, I want to see her." Nisha broke down as she requested.

"Yes you can. And there is nothing to worry, we are just taking the precautionary measure, before the chemotherapy started, I had made sure her kidneys were fine. But now they are not anymore, so we have to fix them." he said as he called one of his assistants to guide Nisha to the room where Divya was kept. Amit too got up but Dr. Vohra stopped him.

"Amit, the tumor will grow. But before that we will have to get her body in place to accept the medications and help them fight the cancer. If the kidneys don't work properly, the medications will be of no use. It's like we have bullets to kill the enemy, but our gun is not working properly. Try to understand. I know it's hard to accept, but this is the only viable option right now. And don't worry, when everything gets back to normal, we will give her extra intravenous medication to reduce the pressure off her kidneys." He assured him. Amit just nodded. Dr. Vinod, who was standing behind him patted on his shoulder and said, "Don't worry, we'll get her back to normal. She's in the Intensive care unit now, come I'll take you to her."

They went to the third floor of the hospital where he saw Nisha standing outside a room covering her face. Amit ran up to her and grabbed her. She was crying as he saw Divya lying on the bed with a couple of tubes inserted in her nostrils and a fluid entering her body through a syringe. The room was filled with many machines which were monitoring her pulse rate, blood pressure and other vital levels continuously. _Not any more, I can't see you going through a lot of trouble like this._ He thought looking at Divya. His eyes were teary too, but consoling Nisha was the first priority. He helped her settle down on a bench in the lobby.

"I can't see her like this, not anymore." She said the similar words that Amit had just said to himself. "I just want her to be fine and happy and lead a simple wonderful life. I just can't see her like this Amit, tubes and needles entering her body and many machines attached to her. It just doesn't seem right." She buried her face in his arms and broke down, her body moving with every sob. Amit patted her, somehow controlling himself.

"I know. I too can't see her like this." He tried his best to sound normal but his broken voice could hardly manage.

"I just want to see her smiling. It's been so long she smiled at me. I just want her to be fine. I want her to lead a normal life like others. That's all I am asking for. I can't see my baby suffer like this." She kept repeating the same, holding Amit very firmly.

"I know, I know everything, but don't worry, Dr. Vohra said she will be fine. This treatment will make her better. Don't you worry about it." He said as one of the nurses also came and consoled her. "We can still continue the chemotherapy and it will get rid of the cancer as expected, okay." He continued and asked the nurse "Can we please go in?"

"Yeah sure." She said as she guided them into the room. "She just opened her eyes for a while but slept again. She is too weak." The nurse further added. Nisha softly caressed Divya and sat next to her.

"Divya.." she said slowly holding her small palm, "You want to eat _bittit?"_ Divya didn't even realize anything. "She's not saying anything. Please say something, I will not scold you, just say something." She said covering her face with one hand as Amit took her away, carefully removing Divya's hand from hers. He took her out of the room and they sat on the bench outside till Nisha calmed down. He then took her out for a light lunch which she didn't eat. Amit too couldn't eat. But he knew he had to push something inside and he also forced Nisha to eat a little.

The day passed and Dr. Vohra paid four visits to personally monitor every change. He left the hospital at 11 p.m. and there was a smile on his face as he assured Amit that the day was fine and her health had improved a little.

Both Amit and Nisha had skipped dinner. He had called his family and was in constant touch with them. She even offered to visit him but Amit had to look after Nisha's comfort too, so he avoided it. She had fallen asleep on the bench and Amit rested her head on his shoulder. He too was under a lot of stress but Nisha's outburst today was something he had never expected. He too was attached to Divya, but for Nisha, she had been closer than Amit imagined. He looked at her, she had pulled over the _dupatta_ to cover herself from the cold air. She was not his wife, girlfriend or anyone, but today he felt like she too was his responsibility like Divya. He gently moved her hair that had slipped onto her face. He hesitated for a while, but there was a fierce attraction that he could not resist and he gently kissed Nisha on her forehead. She moved a little but was still sleeping. He put his arm around her and pulled her close, she easily slipped in.

It was around 4 a.m. when Amit felt a surging pain in his back as he opened his eyes. Nisha was sleeping on his lap. For the whole day he was sitting and even in the night, he was in the same position. His back was stiff and his lower back was in unbearable pain. He couldn't take it anymore and asked Nisha to move. She did and slept again using her own hand as a pillow.

Amit moved around the lobby, peeking into every room. There were many patients and every one of them had a relative waiting outside. He looked at an old man, who was sleeping on the bench. The room opposite to him had a young man in it. _Must be his son._ He thought as he took a few more strolls before being Nisha's pillow again. He hardly slept after that. They both left at 6 a.m. to freshen up and were back at the hospital by 7:30 a.m. Nisha was by Divya's side for the whole day, she opened her eyes in the evening which was a big sigh of relief for the duo.

The swelling eased in a couple of days and was gone by the fourth day. There was no chemo therapy for the next week too. Although Dr. Vohra did tell him the risk of the cancer growing back, it was a very well calculated decision taken by Dr. Vohra and Dr. Vinod. When Amit asked about it, he explained how the kidneys were important in chemo and why the delay in the second session was acceptable.
Chapter fourteen

Ten days after she was hospitalized, Dr. Vohra finally decided to continue the chemotherapy with additional drugs to safe guard the kidneys, which meant an extended hospitalization. This made it easier as even a small change in any of her vital figure was under constant observation. But this also worsened Amit and Nisha's state of mind, as Divya being in the hospital with many instruments around, and syringes in her body was challenging for them to face. Second session was not as successful as compared to the first one because the delay had reduced the impact on the cancerous cells. Instead of a reduction, the tumor had increased again, although just 10 %, but the look on Dr. Vohra's face had said many things than the words.

"Amit, I know it's been really very testing for you, but we might have an extended treatment here. She is looking good now, but as soon as we take off the extended drugs, her health goes down. And with the cancer growing back, it is going to be complicated. All we can do is wait, and treat. There is no surgery possible you know that." Dr. Vohra said and paused briefly before continuing "I myself feel bad for whatever she is going through. But we cannot take any risk. We might have tried something, had the cancer been treated, but with the tumors in her body, and that too growing, we just have to defend it, rather than countering." Amit knew what he intended to say and he himself said it for the doctor.

"Does this means it's getting too costly and there's no point in giving a fight as it would just give her more pain?" his question came very straight, without any change in the frequency of his voice.

"No, not at all. We still have a chance, it's just that if we have to treat the cancer, she will have to be here in the hospital throughout. I am telling you this, because I thought you would be expecting a discharge. But no, I am not letting her go anywhere till she is fine. So you will have to keep visiting and take the extra load till then. I know you feel bad to see her like this, but we don't have any other option." The doctor had turned out to be better than Amit had expected. He knew the costs were going very high, yet he insisted on treating her.

"I know sir, but it's very difficult for her." Amit said pointing towards Nisha, who was sitting on the bed beside Divya, busy talking something to her.

"Let's hope the third session works out positively." He held Amit's shoulder, shook his hand and left. Amit passed the same news to Nisha, who simply nodded. She almost lived at the hospital with Divya from the day of her hospitalization. She hardly left her there. She slept on the bench every day, she ate very little and only visited home to change or freshen up, that too after Amit's forceful orders.

Five weeks had passed since she was moved into the hospital and it was time for the third chemotherapy session. Divya was more energetic than she was ever, during her stay there. She would hold Nisha's hand. A few 'mammas' were very frequent every day. The third session began very cautiously with Dr. Vohra personally present to monitor her very closely. Amit had taken three days off and had prepared himself for unexpected turn of events. He watched the orange fluid go in Divya's body drop by drop, with Nisha holding her and Dr. Vohra sitting on a chair right in front of the bed when one of the machines started beeping. The beeps were consistent and the quiet atmosphere in the room had just taken a slight turn towards panic.

"Her blood pressure is falling rapidly." The nurse said, but Dr. Vohra was already on the move. He stopped the inflow from the IV and had replaced it with another bottle of saline. The excessive precautions for the prevention of kidney damage were good, but her blood pressure dropped all of a sudden. Dr. Vohra immediately added some medicines to the IV that brought things under control. A tensed first day was over.

"It's a three way battle now. We have to keep a check on the kidneys, we have to be ready for any uncertain behavior of her body which is the toughest part after today and none the less, the cancer is still there." He told Amit before leaving. Nisha, who was in the room sitting with Divya, also had an ear on what conversation the doctor had with Amit. "We will not give up this time. There is no chance of pushing things further. We will continue with the third session."

"But why such a sudden dip in her blood pressure?" Amit asked.

"The biggest possibility is dehydration. Too much playing with fire is also difficult. Her kidneys are barely holding up. It was not the case the first time, but after the second session, it's like her body is just not accepting the chemo. But don't worry, we will make it through." He again assured Amit, who was finding the uncertain complexities frustrating. _I just want her to be fine and home. Do whatever it takes._ He angrily thought as he headed back to Nisha and told her everything. She just stroked Divya on her forehead and held her hand.

"I just want to take her home. I can't keep her here wired to so many machines like this. I just cannot face it." She said dryly.

"I know that Nisha, but it's just a matter of few more days. We have to complete the third session like this under observation. Once we are through, I am going to take her home the very next minute, Promise." He replied looking at Divya's pale hands. As it happened, he was right, for the next three days to everybody's surprise, there was no unusual turn of events. The radiation therapy too followed, the weakness was back again and Divya would hardly sit. For most of the time she was lying on the bed with Nisha telling her stories and singing songs. Days passed swiftly as the relentless medication gave Divya some energy. She could sit on her own and once in a while she was even allowed to take a stroll on Amit's shoulder in the hospital lobby. It had been three consecutive days since Dr. Vohra had paid her a visit.

"He might be out of station." Nisha said, feeding Divya _khichadi_ paste with a spoon.

"I asked the assistant, she said he is busy. And I didn't care as far as she is fine, eating solid food." He smiled at Divya who was reluctant to eat the whole bowl of _khichadi,_ but Nisha managed to fool her around. "You eat this or I'll call Viraj uncle." She said with the phone in hand, after that all of the _Khichadi_ went in quietly. Few sips of water and lunch was over.

"May be there is nothing serious here, so he would be attending other things." Nisha said, not paying any heed to Divya, who had now started pulling her _dupatta._

"See, I don't have any problem if he is not here and Divys'a fine." He chuckled on his not at all funny joke.

"Don't worry, he would be the first person to visit if something was wrong." Nisha said, holding her _dupatta_ from falling, as only a part of it was left on her shoulder.

"Yeah that's also a point.. anyways..." Amit was saying but was interrupted by a very angry Divya.

"Ammii," she shouted very angrily, leaving Nisha's _dupatta,_ leaning towards Amit. He grabbed her immediately.

"Ohhooo.. you heard what she said?" He asked Nisha with a lot of excitement.

"Yes, 'Ammii'. She called your name." Nisha said, laughing heartily with joy.

"I can't believe it, she called me like that for the first time. It's always mamma otherwise, but today Ammi." He kissed her on the cheek. The spirit filled hospital smell was adsorbed by her skin and Amit felt its taste. "Yak, yak, dirty baby." He said and kissed her again.

"Say it again. Amit. Say it." Nisha tried teaching her, but she pointed her finger towards the lobby.

"Okay, smart. I was not paying heed, so you ask Amit to take you for a walk. You cheater, changed sides just for a walk. Go, don't talk to me." Nisha said in a childish manner but all Divya wanted was a stroll in the lobby. Amit laughed as he cuddled her and took her out. Two-three strolls, a couple of greetings by other fellow patients and they were back in their room. The nurse gave her the medicines and she closed her eyes in a few minutes after that. It was relaxing time for Amit and Nisha too. His eyes were closing faster than hers. He was awake the whole night as he had to complete his work, which was 'work from hospital' instead of home at present.

"Amit?" Nisha called him.

"Hmm," he replied, his eyes still closed.

"I have been observing this for the last few days now. I think Divya has been having difficulty in breathing."

"What? Why do you think so?" Amit enquired, a little surprised and confused.

"Yesterday night I was lying next to her telling her a story, it was after you left. I heard her breathing. It was as if she had to make extra efforts to breathe in. I don't think it is hurting her, but definitely she was breathing heavily. Do you think we should tell this to Dr. Vohra or is it just normal and there is nothing to panic?"

"I don't know, but he should know all of this. He is even yet to come up with third session's results. May be there is nothing to worry. But still, I'll talk to the nurse in the evening and we'll see what she has to say."

"Okay, I just thought I should tell you this so that whenever you talk to him, you should know the latest observations I have had."

"Okay Dr. Nisha, I will let him know your observations," he replied as they both laughed. Amit rested his head on the wall and closed his eyes again.

"Hey, come here sleep." She offered her lap. A good three hour sleep was followed after that. Amit asked the nurse about it, but she said Dr. Vohra might comment appropriately on the breathing issue. That night, both Amit and Nisha tried their best to teach Divya how to pronounce 'Amit' but she could not add the 't' properly and always ended with 'Ammi'. Another day went by and there was no sign of Dr. Vohra.

Chapter fifteen

Amit was in the office when he received a call from Nisha. "She coughed pretty badly today. Can you come here a little early?" Amit could sense a slight panic in her voice.

"Did you tell this to the nurse?" He asked.

"Yeah, it happened when she was there, but she said its normal. I am a bit worried. Just come here as soon as possible, even if it's nothing. I need you here." Amit followed her like any obedient man in a relationship would do, and was in the hospital under sixty minutes. She was sitting on the bed next to Divya when Amit arrived.

"What's wrong?" He asked, as Nisha reached him for a hug as soon as she saw him. He patted her head and made her sit. Although not a couple, everything they were going through was the same as any married couple would go through, if their child was in the hospital.

"I was scared and worried." She replied with teary eyes.

"It's okay. I am here now, don't worry. Everything's fine." He knew it was too much for any young girl of her age to take on everything alone. She needed his support and her frightened call made him realize how much she needed him.

"Hey baldie, what happened huh? Why did you cough so dangerously that made Nisha mamma cry?" He asked as he saw Divya looking at him and Nisha, who had wiped her tears. "Come here, show me what happened?" He went close to her and kissed her on both the cheeks. Every time she looked at him, Amit felt proud to be there for her, it reminded him of the fact that he was not like his father, which made him more and more strong. She simply touched his face; the fragrance of his deodorant gave her something good to inhale. She pulled his shirt's collar. "Okay, let's go out." He took her out for a walk. Every time he lifted her, he could feel she had lost weight considerably.

Around 6 p.m. Nisha managed to put Divya to sleep and the duo went out for tea. Amit looked at Nisha, she had just tucked her hair, wore a violet color _salwar-kurta._ She looked tired, upset as if she was fighting a lost battle. "You okay Nisha?" He asked. She didn't reply, just took a sip and rested her head on his shoulder. He finished his tea and allowed her to calmly take her time. "Listen, she will be fine, look at her, she is fitter than she first came here and even Dr. Vohra didn't pay a visit, that means.." Nisha interrupted him.

"Please, just stay quiet. Don't say anything. I don't want to talk." She replied as she kept her unfinished cup of tea and looked away. Amit paid the tea vendor and they left. He turned back and looked under the stall. There was nothing. It reminded him of the first time he met Divya. His whole world had changed after that, he was more responsible, more understanding, more matured and most of all, more sacrificing.

"What?" Nisha asked as he turned back.

"Nothing, that's how I found her for the first time, under the tea stall. She was sleeping on a rag. I took her home and from then, it's like I have got a daughter. Everything changed and now I feel like being a responsible father." There was a silence for a couple of seconds between the two. "As well as a responsible husband." he added with a smile and elbowed her.

"Do you think I am so irresponsible in taking care of her?" She asked angrily, with a sudden change in her composure.

"No I didn't meant that I just.."

"Then just shut up." She held his hand and they went back to the hospital. Amit literally shut it up for the next two hours. Sensing that she had lost her control more than she had expected, Nisha asked him to bring something to eat. It eased things as he ordered dinner on phone. Amit offered to stay with Divya for the night as Nisha had been there for more than a week, but she sent him home.

"Amit, wait, I have to talk." She said and guided him out of the hospital.

"What is it?"

"I am sorry for being abrupt."

"Oh come on, don't get me started. I can understand your frustration, you don't need to apologize. You already have been through a lot." He replied calmly.

"No, it's not about me or Divya, it's about you. I am worried about you." She pressed the words.

"What about me? I am absolutely fine, nothing to worry." He said casually.

"Amit, it's not what you think. What you have done for her is too much. We both know how much you are attached to her. What Divya means to you. We both know how much you are attached to me and what I mean to you. You look after her, as well as me. And this is not just a matter of few days but you have been consistently doing this for both of us. Me and Divya."

"So what?" Amit asked her, looking right into her eyes.

"So what? She repeated after him. "So what? What after Divya? What will you do? All this is temporary. If she survives, you will find her family and give her back, right? If she doesn't, you lose her. And after that what?" She asked. This unexpected question from Nisha had completely stumped Amit. He had no reply. He never thought that far.

"Answer me." She pressed.

"I don't know." He said with a lot of irritation on his face "All I know is that I have to look after her wellbeing and I love you. And I have never felt this complete in my entire life when I see her sleeping quietly on the bed in your arms. I feel happy when I see you two playing, even if it's here in the hospital, or back home. I just feel complete with both of you around." He said looking at the floor with a few drop of tears coming out.

"I have done a lot for her right? You yourself have said that many times. Do you know what you have done for her, do you know what kind of a support you are for me?" He asked.

"It's my duty Amit." She replied right away.

"Then I am also carrying out my duties. And I have not given a thought about what happens between us after Divya. Right now, she is the most important thing. We can sit and talk about us later. Is that clear?" He asked angrily.

"It's not that simple Amit, I can't explain you all of this right now."

"What's not simple, tell me one of your friend, whom you can call when you need someone to be around. Tell me one person, one name." He paused for a moment to let her answer, but she didn't reply, "See; you don't have anyone other than me. You were scared today, you called me. I can understand you and I know this has been traumatic for you too. It brought us close and we both respect it. But right now, there is no before or after Divya, it's just the present and we have to be together to face whatever comes our way." She didn't say a word.

"Nisha," he held her by her arms. "My manager helped, Dr. Vohra is helping. Out of nowhere, God sent you to help me take care of her. Viraj uncle found her one morning and then I took her home. So you really think she would have survived if it wasn't for all of this?" She again had no reply. "Nisha, I know you are thinking about me, I have seen you observe me from a distance. But trust me, I am not going anywhere, I am here for her and for you too. Okay, now go, get some sleep. It has been a stressful day for you." He released her.

"Amit why don't you understand, please just try.."

"Shsshh!" He stopped her. "No need to say anything," he hugged her. She held him tight and broke down. "It's okay. Let it out." He said stroking her hair.

"Just take care of yourself. I love Divya." She said as her sobs increased.

"Okay, I will take care of myself, now stop crying and sleep quietly." He said on a lighter note as he led her to Divya's room. She wiped her eyes. "I don't think you will have to wash the _dupatta,_ the tears have done that already." He joked. She didn't laugh at all. "You sleep and look after her, I'll be here at the earliest tomorrow." He said and turned to leave. She held him and hugged him again.

"I love you too, just be the way you are." She whispered in his ears.

"Yeah, don't worry." He replied tightening his grip around her. There was fierce flow of emotion that didn't want him to let her go, but she had already released him and he had to let her go. It was awkward for both of them but still she managed to kiss him on his forehead.

Amit reached home with a very secured and happy feeling. Divya's health was normal and Nisha's recent confession about the care she had for him had eased things. He had to tell her that he loved her, but it never crossed his mind before, as every thought was around Divya's health. But today everything fell into place even without a prior notice. He didn't even feel any pressure when he confessed his love to Nisha. His feelings for Nisha had burst out of nowhere and he went to bed with the same. He had a good, straight, undisturbed sleep for nine hours which made him realized he hasn't slept like that for a long time.
Chapter Sixteen

The ride to hospital was a pleasant one today. His body and soul, both were rejuvenated as he got out of the cab and reached the hospital. A tired Nisha was there waiting for him. "Hey what happened? You alright?" He asked.

"Yes, you stay here, I'll take a shower and will be back in a couple of hours." She replied sluggishly.

"Take your time. Don't hurry. I am here as long as you want." Amit went to Divya, who was playing with an empty bottle of medicine and took it from her.

"Aeee.." She shouted and he gave it back. Her angry voice too felt like a melody as it was lively. Nisha got back in two hours, her hair were wet again, which Amit loved a lot. Her wet hair would mean her just out of the shower look. He kept looking at her with a smile.

"What?" She asked rudely.

"Your hair, they look great when they are wet." The smile was still there.

"You are in a hospital and there is a little patient in this room. So I think this is not an appropriate place for flirting around." She said giving him a dirty look.

"Okay, as you wish, your highness. I will flirt when we go down for tea." He replied playfully ignoring her angry attitude. They had light snacks as lunch after which Amit decided to work and Nisha closed her eyes for a while. There was a knock on the door. It was Dr. Vohra.

"Hi Amit, what's going on?" He asked casually. Nisha hurriedly got up and sat upright tucking her loosened hair.

"Catching up with office work. How are you sir? Came after a long time. I guess it's more than week since we saw you."

"Yes, just busy with work and her reports." He gave a short formal reply and got directly to the point. "Amit, did you ever find Divya having some difficulty in breathing?" Amit and Nisha looked at each other. Her observation was an 'observation.'

"Yes, she did have difficulty in breathing." Amit replied, but before the doctor could say something, Nisha added,

"She also coughed badly yesterday. It was after a long time and it has been a few days since she is she is having difficulty in breathing. She didn't cry or complain of any pain, but I was lying next to her and I heard her heavy breathing." She told everything to make things clearer for the doctor. He just nodded as he looked at the little patient on the bed and the woman next to her.

"Amit, please meet me in my cabin, I need to talk." He said and left.

"I am coming with you." Nisha said, hurrying after Amit.

"You stay with her. I'll tell you what he said." Amit resisted, but she barely listened to him and was still walking with him.

"She is not going anywhere. I told you about her heavy breathing and now his facial expressions were not good. Something is not right. First, he didn't show up for a week and now he just calls you in his cabin. It doesn't seem normal and if there is something serious, I want to hear it myself." They both headed to Dr. Vohra's cabin, who was already waiting for them. The first thing that caught his eye was Nisha's frightened face.

"What happened sir? Anything wrong? Is that breathing problem a serious issue?" Amit too was tensed and hammered questions one after another.

"Amit, calm down and you too mam." He said looking at Nisha. "I went through her reports and let's get straight to the point. The third chemotherapy session was a failure. We didn't improve at all after the second session's delay because of the kidney complexities." His words pierced through Amit's heart. He gathered all his guts to look at Nisha, who had closed her eyes, allowing the tears to come out and roll down the cheeks. Dr. Vohra continued, "We have tried everything, but the cancer did not retract. In fact it grew as aggressively as it was, when we first detected it. The chemo did not have any impact and now the tumor has reached her heart." Amit was absorbing the harsh reality that pounded his ears. He couldn't even imagine what Nisha would be going through. "I contacted a few more doctors I know, but they said there is no chance now. It's way beyond our control. We tried everything we could, but we have to start counting her days now" Dr. Vohra concluded.

Amit closed his eyes and let everything come out. He had no words to say. _Please don't say this. Please do something. Try a few more sessions, but remove the tumors. Keep her here in the hospital for another year. I will visit her every day. I will look after her, but please don't give up on her. Do something. You can't say all this. How can I let my baby die?_ His inner voice was shouting loudly, but his throat was dry. He wiped his tears with his shirt's sleeve, but they kept on flowing. He looked at Nisha who was stunned. He got up and took her in his arms. She broke down. Dr. Vohra let them absorb the news and gave Nisha water. She held Amit tightly and kept on crying. She buried her face in his chest to cover her loud cries, her every sob resulting her whole body to shiver. Amit too let out his emotions. He tried his best to be strong for Nisha but couldn't hold it any longer.

"We can buy some more time by surgically removing the lining of her heart. But it cannot be cured. It has passed that stage. It will only give her a few more weeks' of extra time." Dr. Vohra said after a few minutes. Amit couldn't stop himself. The Doctor himself got up and patted Amit on his shoulder. "I am sorry Amit, we tried our best, and we did everything we could."

"I will let you know about the surgery sir." He somehow managed, as he helped Nisha get up and leave the cabin.

"Sure, take your time. And take care of her too." The doctor replied as the duo left. They reached the room, Divya was asleep. Amit ran up to her and hugged her tightly. "I love you, you can't leave me like this. I will tell dangerous Viraj uncle. Do you want me to call him?" He said as he cried like a baby. Nisha pulled him away and hugged him. She had brought herself under control but Amit could barely talk. She let him cry for another half hour. He then called his mother and gave the news. Divya woke up in the evening, and as soon as she said 'mamma' for water, Amit couldn't hold it and broke down again.

It was around 9 p.m. at night when they both were sitting on the bench in the lobby. None of them had eaten anything. "I feel like I am losing my own daughter. She has been with me for just two-three months but it feels like she has been with me since her birth." He said looking the floor. Nisha didn't even bother to reply. "You were right, what after Divya? I don't see anything after Divya. Everything was fine till afternoon and now I feel like all the happiness in the world has been taken away from me. Why now? Why did he bring her in my life in the first place if he had to take her away? Why is God so selfish? Why he has to kill an innocent child?" It was a monologue. Nisha simply stroked his hair and helped him rest his head on her lap. "How can he be so ruthless? She is just two years old, maybe younger than that. Mamma, bittit, TV, limote, hutt, Ammi, aee are the only words she can barely speak and yet he decides to take her away." He was talking and wiping away the occasional tears that followed.

"Ssshhhh. Don't say anything. Just keep quiet and close your eyes. Don't blame God for all this. In fact he gave her extra two-three months of life. You should be thankful instead." Nisha spoke for the first time in a couple of hours.

"You call that extra two-three months a life?" He asked.

"Amit, from here on, every single day is life for her. You just close your eyes. We will talk everything in the morning. She is sleeping now. And you are in a real bad state. I am not letting you go home and stay alone. So just close your eyes and sleep." She gently massaged his forehead. His eyes were swollen and had turned red. She gently caressed his hair and forehead for an hour after which he was asleep. The temperature had fallen, she pulled over her _dupatta_ on him to cover him from the cold.

Chapter seventeen

His sleep broke around 4 a.m. Nisha was still awake. She patted his forehead again to put him back to sleep. He finally woke up at 7 a.m., everything was changed. Both Amit and Nisha sat near Divya with Amit holding her hand and playing with her palm and fingers, and fighting the tears simultaneously.

"She is too small for all this. A pack of biscuit is enough to keep her happy, but even that is also not written in her destiny. How cruel can things be?" Amit said to himself.

"Amit, stop it. The love you have given her the past few months, is more than even her real parents could have given her. Here she is, dying, breathing her last breaths and you are there on her side. Consider yourself fortunate enough to love someone so selflessly. These days, you won't find someone like you. So be proud of yourself." Nisha said, she had not let out a single tear since yesterday, as if she had accepted everything and had decided to live with it.

"I know." He said slowly, she didn't reply. "Okay, I have to tell Dr. Vohra about the surgery, yesterday I couldn't talk to him. It's so rude to ignore him like this." He shrugged off the jaded thoughts and got up.

"No."

"What no?" Amit asked.

"We will not have that surgery."

"What?" Amit looked startled "I mean why? Are you out of your mind? He said that would buy us some more time."

"Amit, she has already had enough. Just let her die in peace." She shouted. "The surgery would take away the remaining life she has got. She will be alive, but with life support. Do you think they will discharge her the very next day after a heart surgery? She won't even gain consciousness for a day after that. And do you think she will be off the life support after that? Do you think they will let you take her for a stroll in the lobby?" Amit had no answers to her questions.

"They will cut her chest open. And then before it even heals, she will be out of time. There is already pain inside her, killing her by every passing moment and she is too small to even tell us where and how it hurts, you can talk, I can talk, but she can't. Forget the surgery, but I don't even want a syringe inside her now. One month in hospital with a surgery and ventilator to breath and one week at home with you and me around. You ask her what she wants, she will prefer the one week of happy peaceful life at home instead of these four walls. I can feel her pain, please try to understand Amit. Please." She was making sense.

"The surgery will forcefully keep her alive, this will willingly keep her alive. So even if it's for a week I will take it. Just tell him we don't want the surgery." She pleaded.

"We will kill her Nisha." Amit said looking at Divya, who lay on the bed playing with her empty medicine bottle.

"No we won't, do you think I will let you do that? Trust me Amit. Please." She got up and placed both her hands on his cheeks. "Please don't give her anymore pain. I am begging you. Take her home and we will give her our love for the remaining period. Please. For me, for Divya. Please tell him no." Amit was grappling with his own thoughts and Nisha's. Her thoughts seemed right.

"I just don't want her to go through any kind of surgery anymore. No treatments, nothing. If she has to die, let it be natural. Don't force her to be alive by hurting her." She said. Her words 'Don't force her to be alive by hurting her' tore Amit's heart. He had to make the most difficult decision of his life. When he decided to take care of Divya on his own instead of handing her to the NGO, it seemed difficult, but now everything was in his hands, his 'yes' or 'no' would decide Divya's fate, her life. He looked at the little bald baby girl on the bed, those little palms, fingers, lips, busy nose, feet, resting on the bed, and in front of him stood his biggest support throughout the journey, a young women who miraculously came into his life and changed its course, who supported him unprecedentedly and was the one with whom he had fallen in love with. He looked straight into her eyes, there was nothing but love and sacrifice for Divya along with a hope that would give Divya some peaceful days. He again looked at both the women and had made the biggest decision of his life.

"Okay, I'll tell him we are taking her home." She hugged him out of joy. All this while she didn't shed a single tear, but after hearing this, she let them flow. Amit fought his, but eventually it all came out. He was finding it tough but Nisha was making sure she handled him well. He gathered himself and called Dr. Vohra.

"Sir, it is Amit. Are you in the middle of an appointment sir?"

"No, I am not at the hospital right now."

"Can we talk for a moment?"

"Yes sure, go ahead, what is it?" The doctor asked calmly.

"Sir I wanted to talk about the surgery you suggested. I and Nisha, we both have decided that instead of giving her more pain and a few extra weeks, it would be better if she passes away with minimal pain. So even if it is lesser time, we would prefer to keep it natural, instead of a surgery and forcefully keeping her alive." He said, his voice breaking down with every word he spoke. There was a silence on the other end as well. The doctor didn't reply.

"I hope that's okay with you?" Amit asked hardly keeping his voice intact.

"Uhh.. yeah.." He said coming out from his own thoughts. "Yeah.. that's a.. that's a hard decision, but a wise one. I just wanted to make sure that I gave you all the options we had. The surgery would give her pain, it will be pain like this too, but this would mean less painful days. Wise decision. You did everything you could son." Dr.Vohra replied, pulling his thoughts together.

"It wouldn't have been without you. She would never made it this far." Amit said as his voice broke, Nisha came from behind and held him as she helped him sit.

"It's alright. Hold yourself together. I'll be at the hospital after noon. Will meet you there." He hung up.

Nisha took Amit out for breakfast. He didn't eat, but she forced him to. So far, it was Amit who was strong, giving her the emotional support, but this was the strongest side of Nisha he had ever seen.

Dr. Vohra came to meet them around noon. "How much time we've got?" Nisha asked him.

"Two weeks or three at the most." He replied checking Divya, who was asleep.

"Can we take her home? I want her to be home and not here in the hospital. Can you prescribe the medications that you are giving her here?" She asked.

"It would be very difficult for you at home."

"I will take care of her, don't worry. I just want to take her home, where it wouldn't make her feel like trapped inside four walls. Please." Nisha insisted.

"If that's your wish, I'll give you the medicines myself. Take her home, and give the best you can. Make the most of it. And feel free to call me any time, if you need. And you also have to report me her health every day. Clear?" He asked Nisha.

"Hmm," she simply nodded. He went to Amit and patted his shoulder, who was also sleeping.

"What happened to him?" The doctor asked.

"He has not eaten anything since yesterday, I forced him to have a breakfast but he hardly ate; now he complained of severe headache, so I put him to sleep."

"Good, let him have some rest."

"He's already had enough. Just don't want more trouble for him." Nisha said looking at Amit. "He's like Divya, I patted him a few times and he fell asleep." She said with a faint smile.

Dr. Vohra smiled back. "I'll complete the discharge procedure for you guys." He said and once again looked at Divya and then left.

Amit woke to a rustling noise. It was Nisha packing up stuff. "What's going on? What are you doing?"

"Dr. Vohra granted discharge. They are letting us take her home."

"What? Are you serious? I thought you were just talking about avoiding the surgery." He said and looked at Divya, who too was confused to see what was going on. She was making a few gestures for a walk but Nisha wasn't paying any heed.

"You two just don't say a word now. Keep quiet and let me do my work." An irritated Nisha scolded both of them for no reason. Amit got up and took Divya out in the lobby. He gave her many gentle kisses on her cheeks, and head, so much so that she finally lost her patience and gave a light thud on his chest. It didn't hurt him at all, as there was no energy in her hand. She coughed a few times, but apart from the gentle thud, it was a 'peaceful' walk, as Amit didn't kiss or place his hand on her bald head, which always left her annoyed.

Nisha had packed everything by 6 p.m. as it was just a small bag. All the documentation formalities were looked after by Dr.Vohra himself. She was in charge of the whole thing as she headed out of the hospital, no formal farewell to anyone, not even to the nurses and Dr. Vohra's assistants. Amit led Divya with 'bye's' to her hospital friends. They were the only friends she had. A couple of aged men, an old women and a young man. Amit knew she was counting her last days, a mere thought made his eyes wet.

They got a cab, reached home. Amit was cheering up Divya who was half asleep. Nisha didn't speak anything. They reached home. Divya slept in between Amit and Nisha. The night was a longer one as she woke them up quite a few times, which kept Amit on his toes, whereas for Nisha, the disturbing nights was a daily affair.
Chapter Eighteen

One week passed. Her health didn't degrade all of a sudden, but it was visible that the cancer was taking over. Amit had taken leave from his office for a couple of weeks. He had explained Mr. Narayan about Divya's condition and he immediately approved Amit's leave without a second's thought.

It was around noon when Amit was getting ready to go out somewhere. Nisha assumed he had some office related work and so didn't bother to ask him. "I'll get back in an hour or so," he said tying up his shoe laces.

"Just an hour? Where are you going by the way?" Nisha asked surprisingly.

"To the police station. It's time to tell the cops, if they manage to find her parents in time, they might also get to meet her for the last time, or at least get to see their daughter." He said, looking at the floor, avoiding eye contact with Nisha.

"What? Are you out of your mind? They will keep her, they will come here, take her away from us. And they will charge you for keeping a baby with you for so long, which might even mean kidnapping." She said furiously. "Don't act smart. You don't know how much trouble you will get into after you reach the police. The first question they will ask you is when you found her. And the moment you say three months ago, they will round you up as the main suspect. Nobody will give any damn to your love and care, it all amounts to crime, keeping a baby for so long, when you could have simply went to the police on the first day."

"But we to find who her parents are, we have to tell them what happened to their daughter." Amit said looking at her.

"No we don't, why don't you try to understand Amit? Please, please don't do something so stupid. It will get you into a lot of trouble, trust me. What you have done is against the law, yes you have given her so much of love and all the facilities you could, but she is not your daughter." she replied, more frustrated than before.

"Okay, if that is against the law, then we are partners in crime. You have also helped me look after her. So if my deeds amount to kidnaping, then you are an accomplice to crime." He too replied furiously.

"Amit, my dear, it's not so simple." She went up to him and held his hands, "Why don't you understand? I will never get into any trouble, it's only you I am worried about. Please, trust me, look into my eyes." She said as she held his chin and made him look at her eyes. "Please don't go the cops, we don't need to find her parents at this stage. She is more than happy with us, we are her parents now. Please don't go to the cops. You love her I know, but the cops will not consider your love or sacrifice, they will take her away from us." Tears were flowing out of her eyes and Amit could feel her hands trembling. For a moment he felt like there was nothing in front of him other than Nisha, the room disappeared; it was a dark hollow space with just Nisha in front of him and darkness all around.

"What's all this? What's happening? I am fainting, hold me Nisha, I am feeling weaker." Amit said and tried to get a hold of Nisha, but he couldn't. His hand went right through her body, he felt like his legs couldn't hold his weigh anymore. He gasped for breath as he again tried to reach her shoulder but there was nothing but thin air and his hand again moved swiftly through her shoulder. He felt it suddenly, something, some force pulling him backwards into the darkness as Nisha stood there right in front of him, he tried to catch her by both the hands, but it was just her shadow. "Nisha please hold me, I am going somewhere, something is pulling me away please hold me." he pleaded but Nisha didn't budge. He could feel the darkness around and could see Nisha disappearing as the force behind him got stronger and stronger.

Suddenly Nisha came right in front of him and gave him a hand. He immediately took it and all the darkness was gone the next moment. He was back in the room holding Nisha's hand, utterly shocked. "Are you okay Amit?" Nisha asked holding him, as he sat down on the floor, panting. "Amit, what happened? Are you alright?" She asked as she helped him sit down. "I'll get water." She rushed inside to get a glass of water. Amit covered his face; he was sweating profusely and scared too.

"What was that?" He asked as Nisha arrived with water.

"What was what?" She enquired.

"We were standing here and suddenly everything went dark, it was just you in front of me but I couldn't hold you, my hands went right through your body." He said and paused to take a sip of water. "I have never experienced something like this before."

"It's okay, relax. Too much stress results into all this. Go inside, take some rest." She said removing his shoes.

"Yeah, I am pretty weak." He said and headed to the bedroom where Divya was already sleeping quietly. He looked at her and turned back to see Nisha, who was standing behind him. "She would never get to see her parents again."

"She doesn't need to, you are everything she wants," Nisha said calmly.

"I am not going to the police, I will never approach them, and I will never let anyone take Divya away from both of us." She immediately hugged him tightly as he stroked her hair. Amit was scared after what had happened to him a few moments ago, it was a reality check. He had enough of stress and Nisha was right about not approaching the cops, it would mean more trouble.

"Thank you so much." Nisha said releasing him and wiped her teary eyes. He lied on the bed next to Divya and Nisha gently caressed his hair, within moments he was asleep. That evening, he woke up, had dinner, chatted with Nisha for some time and slept again.

Next day Amit took Divya out for their normal morning walk. Her eyes were open but she was constantly coughing and had rested her head on his shoulder. Amit walked, wiping his tears, shooing the street dogs, she didn't remember any of it. On their way back, he took her to Viraj uncle's stall, like every time, he again gave her a pack of biscuit. She didn't turn to look at him so Amit turned around and she came face to face with Viraj uncle.

She looked at him and raised her hand slightly to take the pack. Her hands weren't strong enough to hold it and it fell down. Amit picked it and said "I'll keep it in my pocket." To his surprise, she turned again to see if it was safe in the pocket. "Yes, it's safe in here." He said pointing at his pocket and kissed her. She was looking at him. "What, you want to slap me, here, give me a slap." He jokingly brought his cheek forward. She came closer, touched her lips on the cheek and made the kissing sound.

"Oh my lovely baby. I love you too and I don't want to lose you." He kissed her back a few more times with tears rolling down his cheeks. A kiss from her was the last thing he had expected. He grabbed her tightly against him, careful enough to not to hurt her, he kissed a number of times on her cheeks and nose. And it finally reached the tip of her boiling point. This time she slapped him on his eyes and nose. The kissing arch rivals headed back to see a smiling Nisha open the door.

"She kissed me, near Viraj uncle's stall." Amit said, dancing with joy as he ran around the house.

"Yes I know, I saw that from the balcony." Nisha said going after him. For the whole day Amit felt a huge sense of satisfaction. He was laughing with joy and crying at the same time. They had dinner. Divya had slept an hour before, so they could eat quietly. Amit watched news for a while and Nisha just sat next to him.

"What, why are you quiet?" Amit asked her as she quietly watched the TV.

"Nothing, just tired. I am going to sleep." She said, kissed him on the cheek and left. Amit too went to bed after a few minutes. Nisha was asleep with her hand around Divya. Amit softly kissed both the ladies, played with Divya's palm like he would always do, by putting his finger in the closed palm and opening the fingers. _Just a few more days, and then, I'll never get to play with you ever. I am going to miss you every day and I'll love you till the end of time. Now sleep you little bundle of joy. We have to shoo many dogs tomorrow morning._ He kissed her hand gently and slept. The night was very pleasant one. Divya had slept without any disturbance which gave Amit an undisturbed sleep. He woke up and saw Nisha sitting on the bed. The clock showed 7:35 a.m.

"Hey, when did you wake up? I don't remember her crying or coughing throughout the night." He said as he kissed Divya on the cheeks. That was the first thing he did every morning, the feeling of Divya sleeping next to him quietly when he woke up, was something he loved. "Are you really awake? Or you are asleep, but sitting? I don't remember you sleepwalking or something." Amit asked Nisha, whose eyes were still closed.

"She's gone. She's not breathing. Not from the last three hours." Nisha said with tears coming from her eyes.

"What?" Amit jumped in shock. "Divya. Baby. Open your eyes." He shouted and bent down to listen her breaths. There was no breathing. There was no air intake. Her eyes were closed, her little nose not busy anymore. He placed his hand on her lifeless body to feel her heartbeats. Neither the beats were present nor was the chest moving up and down. "No.. no you can't stop breathing. I didn't let you go to the NGO and I will not let you go now." He started crying as he held her onto his lap.

"Amit" Nisha said calmly. "Come here," she separated him from Divya, She kept her lifeless body on the bed, and pulled him to her. She covered him in her arms and let him cry. "It's over, see, she went away so peacefully like we thought, without any pain, with you and me next to her. Just let her go. She kissed you yesterday, right? That was a good bye kiss." She said breaking down. All the memories started flooding into his mind.

"It can't be, all this is just a dream." He pushed her away. "You are a dream, she is a dream. This all can't be true at all." He cried again.

"Amit, calm down, just let it sink in, come here." She held his hand and pulled him again. She let him cry and kept on patting his back.

"We have to take her to the hospital. I'll call Dr. Vohra." He said regaining his composure. They took her to the hospital. Nisha kept a motion less Divya on her lap and Amit put his arm around Nisha as they drove to the hospital in the cab. It was too early but Dr. Vohra had reached the hospital as soon as Amit had called. He did the formalities. For the whole time Nisha held Divya in her arms. Amit called his mother and Param. Param came immediately with his wife. His mother too told him that she would get the first available mode of transport.

After Param arrived, Nisha left after assuring Amit was in control. He performed the last rites, Param, Dr. Vohra and Viraj uncle too attended it. That evening, even his mother and Shrishti arrived. Nisha didn't show up after that for a few days. He called her but she didn't answer, so he decided to let her take her time. Every time he went into the bedroom it reminded him of Divya. Her small clothes, her toys, the baby soap that he had bought her. It all seemed like a dream.

Amit was lying on the couch watching television when Nisha came, "Amit, how are you feeling? You ate something?" She asked as soon as she entered.

"Yeah. Light breakfast. It doesn't feel right." He replied, bringing his legs closer, allowing her to sit.

"Amit I have to tell you something."

"What?" He replied not paying any attention to what she was saying.

"Do you know where I stay? Where I came from?" She asked him shaking his leg to grab his attention.

"No, you never told me and it never occurred to me to ask you something like this. So where you are from? I know you stay at Jay Prakash nagar." He replied.

"I am Divya's mother. Nisha Gupta."

"What?" He shifted all his focus on Nisha. "Are you kidding me? Do you even know what you are talking about?" he knew this was coming, the attachment she had with Divya would lead to a mental trauma like this. "Nisha, listen to me, calm down. I know it's hard for both of us, but it's not what you think it is."

"Amit, please. Listen to me. Just hear me out my dear. What I am going to tell you is hard for you, not me. I am Divya's mother, and I passed away during her birth. My husband never paid any attention to me when I was pregnant. I knew he wouldn't look after her. So I was always around her, when he left her, I made sure she survived for two days. Then you found her. I was there every time, in your living room on the first day, would talk to her when you were not there. Then, I realized that it's not possible for you to look after her alone, so I did everything I could to help my daughter. I could not give her any comfort when she was born, I didn't even get to see her. But my soul, it just couldn't move on."

"Nisha, what are you talking about? It's all in your head my dear. Just take some rest, have some sleep and you will feel better. Let those thoughts take their time to go away. I myself know how difficult it is to accept." Amit said switching off the television.

"Why don't you understand?" She said with some impatience on her face "How do you think I met you in the hospital on the first day of the first chemo session? How do you think she was comfortable with me right from the moment she saw me, because I was around her since her birth. I was not a stranger, I am her mother. Do you think she might have stayed with you? No, I kept on telling her that you are good, you will give her biscuits, chocolates and so she didn't cry. No baby can live with a stranger, and she is no exception. The first thing a baby wants in the morning is their mother. She never called mamma just because she wanted to see me, but because I was there in front of her eyes all the while. I am not a student, otherwise how could I devote so much time with college and studies around." She paused, Amit was thinking about everything she was saying. "Amit I could not help her out with money, but I did everything I could to look after my daughter, even though I was not alive. I just want to thank you for everything you did. I wish she had a father like you, I just want to tell you that she will always be your daughter even if she wasn't your biological one. And I just want to tell you that I can understand what she meant to you." There was a silence in the room. Amit still, was in doubts about what she was saying.

"You wanted to find her parents right? I am her mother, and I was always there for her. But I couldn't tell you all this before. When you tried to reach the cops, I had to act, I had to stop you, because there was no need to find her parents. So, I took you into the darkness to instill that fear in you, to make you realize that going to the police was not important. For you, it was darkness all around, but that's where I live. I don't have anywhere else to go. You and Divya were the only hope of light for me." Tears were rolling down her eyes, which she wiped away with her hand. "I am sorry I influenced you, manipulated your feelings, and gave you that horrifying experience to stop you from going to the police, but I did that for all three of us. I never wanted you to get into trouble for her after everything was over." Amit was numb and confused at the same time.

"It's not easy for a mother to see her kid die in front of her eyes." She continued as tears came down from her closed eyes. "It's never easy for a mother to know that it's just few more days left and then her daughter will be no more. I could never experience it when I was alive, but you gave me a chance to be the mother I always wanted to be. To look after my baby, to take care of her, to feed her, to love her, to make sure she was safe, secure. You bought her clothes, you gave her a place to live, you did everything you could and I don't know how to thank you. I know this is hard to believe, but you have the right to know the truth. I am sorry I had to lie, but I did so for the sake of my daughter." she started crying. Amit put his hand across her shoulder to console her, but to his surprise his hand went right through her body, just the way it was going when everything had gone dark.

"What the.." Amit jumped off the couch. "What was that?" He asked, shaking and sweating.

"I told you, I am her mother. Calm down. I am your Nisha. There's nothing to be afraid of." She tried to hold Amit's hand but he moved away. "Trust me, don't be scared." She moved towards him and finally held his hand. This time he felt her hand and it didn't go through like before. He sat next to her, trying to cope up with the terrifying reality that he had just discovered.

"I know it's difficult, but I was just trying to take care of my daughter. I couldn't let her die like this. At least she got a peaceful death now." Amit was looking at his hand which she was holding. "Amit," she stroked his shoulder.

"What?" He asked, looking into her eyes.

"I said, I know it's difficult, but I was just trying to take care of my daughter. I couldn't let her die like this. At least she got a peaceful death now." She repeated.

"Hmm.." He simply nodded.

"I want you to move on with your life. You did everything you could to save her, but maybe there was something else in her destiny. And she is so fortunate enough to pass away with both you and me next to her. The two people who loved her the most. You should be thankful." He didn't bother to say anything. She knew he was in a state of a shock.

"Amit," she continued "You are a good person; you have a family, your mother and sister. You have to look after them. And Divya and I will always stay in your heart, forever. This are the most beautiful days I have ever spent so far. I wish I could have met you earlier." She laughed wiping her tears "Amit, promise me you will be like this forever and won't ever change." She said, dragging his attention back to their conversation.

"Why are you telling me all this now?" Amit asked, his eyes filled with tears.

"Because I have to go now. I was here to look after Divya, but now, you don't have to worry about her, and she is safe and secured with me." She said patting his shoulder.

"This is a dream, all this is a dream. It's not true." Amit said, releasing his hand from her's and got off the couch as he started pinching himself.

"Yes, of course it is a dream. You are sleeping next to your mother. And I am talking to you in your dream. Because I know you are not in a state to accept and absorb everything at once." She said calmly.

"Please don't say all this, I can't live without you Nisha. I love you. I have already lost Divya, I can't afford to lose you too." He started crying as he came back on the couch. Nisha hugged him. He let her hold him.

"I told you we both are always there in your heart. I knew all this was coming. I knew that the cancer was back and growing aggressively. I could sense the pain my little baby was going through. I could sense there was no chance of saving her. And even after being dead, it was still killing me, every passing moment, I could sense the pain that her body had to go through. All I could do was sit and watch my daughter succumb to the pain. That's why I told you to bring her home and avoid the surgery." She patted his back as his sobs increased. Every word she said was piercing Amit's heart. He had held her firmly. She continued "She was inside me for nine months and I didn't even get to see her face after her birth. Next thing I know I could see my baby crying as well as my own body on the hospital bed. It's not easy for a mother to lose her child. When you took her home on the first day while she was sleeping on the rag under the kiosk, I can't tell you how happy I was, for the first time I felt like my baby was in safe hands. I can't explain you what was going on inside me when you went to drop her at the NGO. When you decided to not to keep her there, by that time, I had made my mind, that if you take care of her, I'll do everything I can to help you. When it was certain that she was not going to make it, I knew it would be difficult for you to accept. You have had enough. You did more than you could for my daughter, our daughter. I just want you live peacefully and happily after this." Her voice cracked.

"Please don't say all this Nisha, I can't forget you two. I miss Divya every moment. She was the center of my life and now she is gone. You are the only one who can understand this and now you too are going away. Please don't do this to me. I cannot forget you." He cried harder, letting all his emotions flow out.

"How can you forget us, huh? You will remember us every day, every moment. We will not go anywhere. You have given us so much; you gave Divya those happy moments that she could never have imagined. In fact, I also never imagined that my daughter would get treatment and would get so much love during her last days. All I wanted for her was a smile and you made sure that you brought that smile quite often. You will remember these happy memories and will live a very happy life, just promise me you will never ever change." She released him and moved away from him as she held his chin and made him look into her eyes, he was covering his face. She wiped his tears and said playfully, "If you ever change, I will come and scare you. Although I am not a scary type of ghost, but still I might scare you off in your dreams." She laughed.

"Please don't go away, please. I promise I will never change, but please don't leave me." he said as he broke down again. He could feel what Nisha had to go through, how much she sacrificed.

"I told you, I am not going anywhere, we both will always remain in your heart. And she also gave you a good bye kiss. Here take mine." She kissed him on his forehead.

"Please don't go, please. Nisha don't go away." He pleaded as she kissed him and held him close to her.

"I told you I never will go away from you. But now, you have to look after your mother and Shrishti. Divya is fine with me." She released him and made him sleep on the couch as she sat on the floor and caressed his hair. "Just relax and sleep. You are too tired. Just let it sink in. Just close your eyes. I am always there for you and so is Divya" She stroked his hair; he could feel dizziness setting in. She kissed his forehead again and disappeared in front of his eyes. He could see her dispersing, he wanted to hold her, stop her, but he couldn't move, his eyes finally closed.
Chapter nineteen

Amit opened his eyes. It was dark and his mother was sleeping next to him. It was a dream. _Thank god. Nisha, you really scared the hell out of me, even in my dream._ He thought with a smile and checked his phone. He went through the messages. All the messages were there except for Nisha's. He checked his contacts, there was no number saved as Nisha. _It wasn't just a dream._ It struck him. He got up and left the room as he started breathing heavily. 'We'll always be there in your heart.' Nisha's words were still echoing in his ears. He checked all the messages, all the conversation he ever had with her were gone as if it never existed. His eyes were teary, along with a smile. He went back to his room and called his mother.

"What?" She asked, as he sat next to her.

"Nothing, just want to sleep on your lap." He said wiping his tears.

"Hey _beta_ , what happened, why are you crying?" She asked, shocked to see him asking something like this. "It's okay, you tried everything you could to save her." She said and sat on the bed folding her legs as Amit placed his head on her lap.

"I love you." He said closing his eyes.

"Okay, now sleep. It's too late and you are tired." She gently tapped his forehead as he fell asleep. After about half an hour, his mother slowly moved away, pulled over a blanket on him and kept stroking his hair for a while.

It took Amit some time to deal with the reality. He took a month off from his office and went to stay with his family in Bhopal. He was sitting in the balcony one evening as he went over all the events again and again. And everything became clearer to him. He never told anyone about who Nisha was. For him she was only a mother, who even after her death, tried everything she could to make sure her daughter was fine. It was the love of a mother and it proved that nothing can come between a mother and her child, not even death. It was just a matter of 3-4 months, where two strange people came into his life and changed the way he looked at everything.

He thought of the past, the day he was going to drop off Divya to the NGO. The little kids gathering around them frightening Divya, the disappointment on their faces, when they saw that the bag only contained reports. He felt bad for them. _I wish I could do something for you people. I wish I could bring a smile on your face. What if some of you might be suffering from something like Divya did, she was lucky, that I helped her, but what about you all, what about all the kids everywhere who don't have parents to look after._ He went out for a walk to relax and to distance him from the countless thoughts that kept coming to his mind. A long walk in the park across his house, with little kids playing, gave him the peace of mind he needed, and then it all came to his mind. With every passing moment, the thought was getting clearer. By the time he was finished, Amit had made a decision. _Thanks Nisha and my sweet little baby. I promise I will never change I love you._

The message he needed to decipher was now in front of him, in his head. All he had to do was to act. He needed to make a bigger change to be the same person he was. His love for Divya and Nisha was personal, emotional, but the outcome and the person Nisha wanted him to be was bigger than that.

He went home and told his mother he was leaving the next day. "Why what happened?" She asked, with her eyebrows raised as high as they could.

"I want to do something, something different." He sat on the couch and paused for a while to tell his mother everything he had planned to do and continued, "There are so many children out there like Divya, who might be suffering from some or the other disease. I want help them all. I want to make sure that they remain healthy or at least help them fight the disease."

"And how are you going to do that?" She asked.

"I will open an NGO that will provide medical assistance to the homeless kids, shelters and all the children who are in the NGOs and everywhere in the country. I will help those children to be fit and get rid of any problem they have." He replied.

"It's not easy to do all this alone." She said sitting next to him.

"I know" he nodded "I know, that's why I will not do it alone. I will take help from other people who can help. Like Dr. Vohra, my manager Mr. Narayan, Param and there are many people who are willing to help. And I'll start from you and me." He said and looked at his mother with a lot of hope in his eyes.

"What you did for Divya is something even I could not have done. What you have been through is too much, and if you want to take all that pain in a positive, constructive manner, than I am with you." She got up, "Wait, I'll be right back"

"Even though your husband left you, you still raised me and Shrishti. You are strong mom, and I am your son, so I have got be strong to help those kids out there. I would never have given up on Divya like he gave up on us." He said as she disappeared into the bedroom.

"Oh! Forget that man." She gave a dirty look as she got back in a couple of minutes "Here, take this." She said handing him a piece of paper before holding it back and going back inside again.

"What?" He asked and waited for her to come out.

"Your first donor as well as donation." She came back with a pen. Amit just smiled at his mother. "Fifty thousand, that's a good first donation right?" She asked.

"Yes, as much as you can and wish." He replied.

"By what name?" She asked signing the cheque.

"What do you say?" He asked again.

"Your choice, it's your organization." She replied and waited for a name to come.

"Divya health care for kids," he replied with teary eyes and a smile.

THE END
About the author

Pratik Deshpande, is a Chartered Accountancy and Bachelor of Commerce student residing in Nagpur. The little girl who changed my life is his second book. Currently, he is working on his third novel tentatively titled 'Mumbai under attack.' He started writing at the age of 19 and lives with his parents in Nagpur.

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