Chapter 35: 31. The Uncovered Truth

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The morning light streamed through the windows as Darshil sat quietly beside Aarvi, who was also sitting on the bed, still weak from the emotional toll of the last few days. Her face was pale, and her eyes had lost their usual spark. The weight of everything she had been through—the false pregnancy, the accusations, the hurt—seemed to have drained her spirit.

Aarvi was lost in his eyes for a minute but then she looks away due to the situations going on between them.

Darshil had made a decision. He knew he couldn’t bear to see her in this state any longer. He had to tell her the truth, but not all at once. The first step was for her to know that she wasn’t pregnant. The rest—about Siya—would come later, once he had earned her forgiveness.

He took a deep breath, gathering the courage to speak.

I wanted to tell you something. Darshil said

Aarvi’s eyes flicked toward him, confusion and wariness clouding her gaze. She had distanced herself from him emotionally after all the hurt she had endured, and Darshil could feel the invisible wall between them.

What is it? Aarvi asked

Darshil’s heart clenched. He hated seeing her like this—broken, vulnerable, and mistrustful. And he knew that it was partly his fault.

He knelt down in front of her, taking her hands in his as he looked up at her. His voice was thick with emotion.

Hazel....you’re not pregnant. Darshil said

The words hit Aarvi like a physical blow. Her eyes widened in shock, and she pulled her hands back from his, her breath catching in her throat.

What? How... that can’t be... the reports... the tests... Aarvi asked

Darshil shook his head, his eyes filled with sorrow and regret.

The reports were false, Aarvi. I don’t know how it happened, but... you’re not carrying a child. Darshil said

Aarvi’s mind reeled. She had been so confused, so torn apart by the thought of being pregnant and by the accusations Darshil had thrown at her. And now, to learn that it was all based on a lie—it was too much to bear.

Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked at him, her voice trembling.

Then why... why did you accuse me? Why did you think I would betray you like that? Aarvi said in a hurtful tone.

Darshil’s heart shattered at her words. He had been wrong—so very wrong. And now, he had to face the consequences of his actions.

Without a second thought, he dropped to his knees completely on the floor, bowing his head down to her feet, his voice cracking with guilt and desperation.

I’m so sorry, Aarvi. I... I don’t deserve your forgiveness. I was blinded by my own fear, my own insecurities. I thought... I thought you hated me, and in my foolishness, I believed the worst. Darshil pleads

Aarvi looked down at him in disbelief, her tears flowing freely now. She had never seen Darshil like this—completely vulnerable, broken, and willing to submit to her. The man who had always been so proud, so strong, was now on his knees, begging for her forgiveness.

I can’t take back what I said... I can’t undo the hurt I caused you. But please, Aarvi... please forgive me. I’ve never felt so lost... so ashamed of myself. Darshil said chocking on his words.

Aarvi’s hands trembled as she clutched the blanket, her mind and heart torn apart by conflicting emotions as Darshil rested his head on her feet where she can feel his tears. She had spent so long convincing herself that she didn’t care for him, that she didn’t love him. But seeing him like this—so raw, so honest—was breaking down the walls she had built around herself.

How could you think I would do something like that? After everything... how could you believe it? Aarvi said

Darshil lifted his head, his eyes red and filled with tears of his own. His voice was raw, the words spilling out as if they were ripping his soul apart.

Because I was afraid. Afraid that you would never love me... that you would always hate me. I thought you were punishing me... and in my weakness, I lashed out. Darshil said

He reached out to take her hands again, his voice trembling with desperation.

But Hazel..... even if you never love me, I can’t live without you. I need you. I need you more than I’ve ever needed anything in my life. You can punish me, however you want. You can shoot me right here for making your cry, I will take those bullets in my chest with a smile but please don't leave me. Darshil said.

Aarvi’s breath hitched as she stared at him, her heart pounding in her chest. She had always told herself that she didn’t care, that she didn’t want to let him in. But now, seeing him like this, she realized that maybe—just maybe—her feelings weren’t as clear-cut as she had thought.

Darshil.... Aarvi whispers

He held her gaze, his voice breaking as he spoke.

I know I’ve hurt you... I know I don’t deserve your love. But please... please don’t shut me out. Please don’t hate me for this. I won't be able to bear that I hurted you by allegations. I raised my voice at you, I yelled at you..... and I questioned your character......my worst sin ever. Darshil said, tears rolling down his cheeks.

Aarvi’s tears flowed freely now, her heart aching at the sight of him so broken, so filled with regret. She had never seen this side of him—the side that was willing to lay down everything for her, to bare his soul.

For a long moment, there was only silence between them. And then, slowly, hesitantly, Aarvi reached out and placed her hand on Darshil’s cheek, her touch gentle and trembling.

I don’t hate you, Darshil. Aarvi said softly

Darshil’s breath caught in his throat, his heart pounding at her words.

I don’t know if I can ever love you... but I don’t hate you, not after the efforts you put in, not after the way you care for me, not after how you took all the blame in front of dadi to protect my dignity and honour even when you weren't sure, it's your baby. Aarvi said, her voice breaking

He closed his eyes, overwhelmed by her words, by the hope that flickered in his heart. He leaned into her touch, his voice barely more than a whisper.

That’s enough for me, Aarvi. As long as you’re here... as long as you don’t leave me... that’s enough. Darshil said

Aarvi looked at him, her heart heavy with emotion. She didn’t know what the future held, but in that moment, she saw a side of Darshil that she had never seen before—a man who was willing to do anything for her, even if it meant baring his soul.

Slowly, she pulled him up from the ground, her hand still resting on his cheek. They sat there, staring at each other, the air thick with unspoken feelings as both wipes each others tears.

How are we gonna tell this to everyone? Aarvi asked

We will figure it out..... But before that, I need to tell you the truth about everything that’s happened... about the pregnancy, the reports, and Siya. Darshil said

At the mention of Siya’s name, Aarvi’s brows furrowed in confusion.

Siya? What does she have to do with this? Aarvi asked

Darshil took a deep breath, knowing that this was going to break her.

Siya.... Siya is real culprit behind all this. She’s been manipulating everything. The pregnancy, the reports... it was all a lie. She faked the test results. There is no baby. Darshil said

Aarvi’s eyes widened in shock, her mind struggling to comprehend what he was saying. She looked at him in disbelief.

No... no, that can’t be. Siya wouldn’t... she wouldn’t do that. Aarvi said

Darshil squeezed her hand gently, his heart breaking at the pain in her voice.

I know this is hard to believe, but it’s the truth. Shiv and I found out everything last night. She’s been behind all of this, Aarvi. She even paid off the maid to cause problems between us and dadi. And the maid herself confessed this. Darshil said

Tears welled up in Aarvi’s eyes as she pulled her hand away from Darshil, her whole body trembling.

No... no, you’re wrong. She’s my sister, Darshil. She wouldn’t do this to me. She couldn’t. Aarvi said

I’m sorry, Hazel... I wish it weren’t true. But she did this to tear us apart. Darshil said

Aarvi’s hands flew to her mouth as sobs wracked her body. The realization that her own sister had betrayed her in such a cruel way was too much to bear. She couldn’t stop the tears that poured down her cheeks, her heart shattered into a million pieces.

Why? Why would she do this? Why would she hurt me like this? Aarvi asked while sobbing

Darshil pulled her into his arms, holding her close, in his embrace as she cried. For the first time, Aarvi didn’t resist. She clung to him, her tears soaking his shirt as she let all her pain and anguish out.

I don’t know, Aarvi. But I promise you, I’m here. I won’t let anyone hurt you again. Darshil whispers in her ear.

Aarvi buried her face in his chest, her heart breaking all over again. But for the first time, she allowed herself to lean on Darshil, to find comfort in his arms. Despite everything that had happened between them, in this moment, he was the only one she could trust.

I don’t know how to face her... I don’t know what to do. Aarvi said through the sobs.

Darshil kissed the top of her head, his arms tightening around her protectively.

You don’t have to do anything right now. We’ll figure it out together. But for now, just rest. I’m not going anywhere. Darshil said

Aarvi pulled back slightly, looking up at Darshil through her tear-filled eyes.

You believe me now Darshil? Aarvi asked softly

Darshil cupped her face in his hands, his thumb gently wiping away her tears.

I will always believe you, Hazel.  Always. Darshil said

For the first time in what felt like forever, Aarvi felt a small flicker of hope. She rested her head against Darshil’s chest, her sobs slowly subsiding as he held her close.

Please don't cry Hazel, you will make your condition worse. You've already cried a lot since the last few days. I can't see tears in your eyes anymore, please. Darshil said

It was evening time, Nandini ji and Poorva takes care of Aarvi and she eats and rest the whole day with Darshil.

The room was filled with a tense silence. Aarvi paced back and forth, her mind whirling with anger, hurt, and a desire for answers. Her heart heavy with the revelations of the past few days.

Darshil stood nearby, his face tight with concern. He knew that Aarvi was planning something dangerous. After everything they had discovered about Siya, the truth weighed heavy on both of them. But Darshil was scared for Aarvi.

I need to talk to her. Aarvi said wiping her tears

No, you won't, I will talk to her, in my way. Darshil said, his expression is serious.

The betrayal by her own sister, Siya, had cut deep, and the emotional pain felt like a wound that refused to heal. But now, Aarvi had to face the truth and confront Siya head-on.

No..... I want to know why she did this to me. And I will talk to her no matter what. Aarvi said.

Darshil was sitting in front of her, his eyes full of concern. He could see the turmoil in Aarvi’s eyes, the weight of everything that had happened pressing down on her.

Hazel, listen to me. Confronting Siya like this isn’t safe. She’s capable of doing anything. You don’t know what she might do if you push her. Darshil said

Aarvi stopped pacing and looked at Darshil with fiery determination in her eyes.

I need answers, Darshil. She has taken advantage of our trust, tried to destroy us... and now, I want to hear it from her. I need to understand why. Aarvi said

I understand that, but she’s dangerous, Hazel. She could hurt you. Darshil said

Aarvi’s jaw clenched as she turned to face Darshil completely.

She already has, Darshil. She’s been hurting me for so long, and I didn’t even see it. Darshil said

Darshil’s heart ached at the sadness in her voice, but Aarvi’s resolve was unshakable.

I’ll be fine. I’ll call her here and handle it. Aarvi said

Darshil looked at her in disbelief. He hated this plan. Every fiber of his being wanted to protect Aarvi, to shield her from any more pain. But he also knew that she needed this confrontation. He reluctantly nodded.

Then let me be there with you. I won’t let her hurt you. Darshil said

Aarvi gave him a small, grateful smile but shook her head again.

I need to do this alone, Darshil. I need to look her in the eyes and hear the truth. Aarvi said

Darshil clenched his fists, his jaw tightening. He hated the idea of Aarvi facing Siya alone, but he understood her need for closure.

Fine... but I’ll be close. Don’t think for a second I’m leaving you alone with her. Darshil said

Aarvi nodded, her mind already focused on the plan she had carefully devised. She knew that Siya wouldn’t come willingly if she knew Darshil would be around. So Aarvi sent a message to Siya that she needed to talk about the complications she is facing due to pregnancy and wants to conduct other blood tests.

Siya arrived at the house, a confident and almost smug expression on her face. She thought her plan had worked flawlessly. As she entered, Aarvi greeted her with a cold smile, masking her true feelings behind a façade of calmness.

Siya, thank you for coming. I’ve been thinking a lot about everything, and I wanted to talk to you in person. Aarvi said

What happened Aarvi? Are you okay? What tests do you want now? And where is Darshil? Siya asked

Aarvi took a deep breath, suppressing the anger bubbling beneath the surface.

Darshil is not here. I wanted to talk about my pregnancy. Last night, I was in hospital. Aarvi said

For a split second, Siya’s eyes flickered with something—a flash of panic, quickly concealed by her usual arrogance.

Yes, I came to check on you. ? I’m glad you called. How are you feeling? Is the baby okay? Siya asked

Aarvi saw through her calm exterior, knowing this was the moment to push further.

Stop it now Siya. Why did you do all this? You know, there is no baby. Why don’t you tell me the truth, Siya? Why did you do all of this? The lies, the reports, everything? Aarvi said in a sharp voice.

There was a beat of silence before Siya’s expression changed. Her sweet facade crumbled, and her eyes filled with resentment.

Why? You really don’t understand, do you? Siya asked bitterly

Aarvi’s heart pounded as Siya’s true emotions came spilling out.

I did all of this because I’ve loved Darshil from the very first day I met him, the day, I saw himin the bookstore. But you....you came and took him away. You don’t even care about him, but he’s obsessed with you! Siya said

Aarvi’s breath hitched. She hadn’t expected this. Darshil, who was listening from the balcony above, felt his chest tighten at Siya’s words, but his eyes were locked on Aarvi, watching her every reaction.

And the pregnancy? That was my plan too. Those pastries I gave you... they were drugged, Aarvi. I made sure you were intoxicated, so after a month, when I can reveal your pregnancy, you’d think Darshil took advantage of you, and he’d think you cheated. I wanted you two to hate each other. Siya said

Aarvi’s eyes widened in shock. Every word from Siya felt like a dagger being driven into her heart. But the worst was yet to come.

For Darshil, you decided to make your own sister's life, a hell? Aarvi said

Yes, and you know why, Aarvi? Because you’re not even my real sister. You’re nothing to me. You were adopted, and you’ve done nothing but steal my parents' love. I’ve hated you for that my whole life. Siya said

Aarvi’s heart shattered at Siya’s words. She knew she wasn’t Siya’s biological sister, but she never thought that the woman she grew up with would harbor such deep resentment. Tears welled up in her eyes, but instead of breaking, her sorrow transformed into anger.

Her fists clenched, and her voice trembled with fury, her anger boiling.

Darshil is mine. He’s my husband. He belongs to me, and no one—no one—will ever take him from me. Not you, not anyone. I don’t care what you feel for him, Siya. He’s mine, and I’ll never spare anyone who keeps an eye on him or even thinks of him! Aarvi said in anger.

Darshil, still listening from the balcony, felt his heart skip a beat. A foolish, giddy smile spread across his face as Aarvi’s words sunk in. He whispered to himself, almost dreamily.

"Hayee... meri jaan." Darshil said in a low voice while grinning and blushing

But Siya’s face contorted with rage at Aarvi’s claim. In a blind fury, she lunged at Aarvi, grabbing her by the neck, her eyes filled with hatred.

You’ll never have him! I won’t let you! Siya screams

Aarvi gasped for breath, her hands clawing at Siya’s as she struggled to free herself.

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So guys, that's all for today.

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As English is not my first language so there can be some grammatical mistakes, I just request to please ignore it.

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