Unwavering Bond

 By Saakshi

Ramesh and Sujata's love story began like any other. They met in college, fell deeply in love, and got married soon after. But their blissful life took an unexpected turn when Sujata started showing symptoms of schizophrenia.

At first, Ramesh didn't know what was happening. Sujata would get agitated for no reason, hear voices, and see things that weren't there. He felt helpless, not knowing how to support his wife. But he refused to give up on her.

As the years went by, Ramesh became Sujata's rock. He took care of her, managed her medication, and stood by her through every episode. He learned to recognize the signs of an impending breakdown and would do everything in his power to calm her down.

Despite the challenges, Ramesh never lost sight of the woman he fell in love with. He saw beyond her illness, and his love for her only grew stronger. He encouraged her to pursue her passions, even when her condition made it difficult.

Sujata, in turn, was grateful for Ramesh's unwavering support. She knew she couldn't have made it without him. On good days, she would surprise him with small gestures – a cooked meal, a drawing, or a heartfelt letter.

As the decades passed, Ramesh and Sujata grew old together. Their love remained a constant, even as Sujata's condition ebbed and flowed. Ramesh's hair turned gray, and his steps slowed, but his devotion to Sujata never wavered.

One day, as they sat on their porch, holding hands, and watching the sunset, Sujata turned to Ramesh and said, "I'm sorry." Ramesh looked at her, puzzled, and asked, "What are you sorry for, my love?" Sujata's eyes welled up with tears as she replied, "For putting you through all this."

Ramesh's face lit up with a warm smile. He gently squeezed her hand and said, "You're my life, Sujata. Every moment with you, every struggle, every triumph – it's all been worth it. I wouldn't trade our life together for anything in the world."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Ramesh and Sujata sat in comfortable silence, their hands entwined, their hearts full of love and gratitude for the 50 years they shared.