Chapter 36: 32. His Warmth

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Aarvi gasped for breath, her hands clawing at Siya's as she struggled to free herself. But before Siya could do any real harm, Darshil sprang into action. He burst into the room and pulled Siya away, throwing her across the room with a force that sent her crashing into the furniture.

Don't you dare lay a hand on her! Darshil said, his voice no less than a roar.

Aarvi breathed heavily and Darshil looked at her with concern.

Are you okay? Did she hurt you? Darshil asked, his expression darkened as he saw her condition and tears.

Siya looked up at him, her eyes wild with desperation. She scrambled to her knees, pleading with him.

Darshil, I did all of this for you! Don't you see? I love you! Siya said while crying

Darshil's face twisted with disgust. His voice was cold, filled with anger and betrayal.

Love? You call this love? You tried to destroy and hurt the woman I love, tried to tear us apart. That's not love, Siya. That's insanity. Darshil said furiously

Siya's sobs grew louder, but Darshil's anger only intensified.

You tried to hurt her-my Hazel, my Aarvi! You drugged her, you lied, and you betrayed everyone who ever trusted you. And for what? For some sick obsession and hatred? Darshil yelled

Siya reached out to him, her voice pleading.

Please, Darshil... I did it all for you... I just wanted you to see me... Siya begs.

But Darshil wasn't moved by her tears. His voice was like ice.

Darshil..... Please. It is Aarvi who is coming between us. She don't deserve you Darshil. I do, I love you, she don't even care for your love. She is just obsessed with her attitude, she doesn't deserve your love. She doesn't even let you touch her..... but I can keep you happy, I am all yours to love , touch and whatever you want. Siya shouted.

Aarvi eyes widen in shock, she looked at Darshil for a moment, whose eyes were red with rage. He took out his gun and directly placed on Siya's forehead. As the cold metal touched Siya's head, she was scared as hell.

Watch your tone Siya, I don't even think once before pulling the trigger, especially when someone is talking against my wife. Darshil said, his voice extremely dangerous as his other hand's fist clenched.

Darshil..... no. Please. Aarvi said as she held his hand.

Darshil's eyes softens as he looked at Aarvi, her eyes again melting him. He looked back at Siya.

Get out of my sight. If you ever come near my Hazel again, I won't be so forgiving. Darshil said in a cold tone.

Siya's face crumpled in despair, but she knew she had lost. She staggered to her feet and ran out of the house, her sobs echoing in the empty hallway.

As soon as Siya was gone, Darshil turned to Aarvi, his eyes softening instantly even more. He rushed to her, taking her in his arms, his heart racing as he held her close.

Are you okay? Darshil whispered

Aarvi was still shaken, her body trembling from the encounter, but as she looked up at Darshil's concerned face, her anger slowly melted away.

The room was dimly lit, shadows flickering as Aarvi sat on the edge of the bed, her face buried in her hands. She had been crying for what felt like hours. Siya's words cut deeper than she had expected, and now, even after everything was out in the open, the pain remained raw and fresh.

Darshil stood nearby, his heart aching as he watched her. He could see the weight of betrayal in her posture, her trembling hands, and the tears that wouldn't stop falling. He wanted nothing more than to take her pain away.

He knelt down in front of her, gently placing his hands over hers, coaxing her to lift her face. Aarvi's tear-streaked eyes met his, and it shattered him to see her like this.

Hazel... I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. Darshil said softly

Aarvi shook her head, her voice thick with tears.

Darshil, I-I don't understand. Why did she hate me so much? I never did anything to her. She was my sister... or at least I thought she was. Aarvi said through sobbing.

Darshil's eyes softened, his grip on her hands tightening ever so slightly.

I know, Hazel. I know. But some people's hatred isn't rational. It wasn't about you-it was about her insecurities, her jealousy. You've done nothing wrong. Darshil said

Aarvi's tears fell harder, her voice trembling as she continued.

She said I wasn't her real sister. And it's true. I've known for years... My real parents, they died in a car accident when I was 11. The Rathod family adopted me, and I always felt like I didn't belong, like I was an outsider. But I tried so hard to be part of their world, Darshil. I tried. Then slowly, Siya became my best friend, my best sister, papa and mummy also started loving me. But this, Siya.... Aarvi confessed while crying.

Darshil's heart clenched hearing this, but he remained calm, his voice steady and filled with love.

I know, Aarvi. Darshil said softly

She looked at him, confusion flickering in her tear-filled eyes.

You... you know? Aarvi whispers

Darshil nodded, lifting her hand to his lips and gently wiping her tears and cupping her face.

I knew from the day I first met you. I made it my business to know everything about you because, Hazel, from the moment I laid eyes on you, I knew you were special. And nothing about your past could ever change how I feel about you. Darshil said

Aarvi looked at him in disbelief. The tenderness in his words was overwhelming, and her heart ached in a different way now-a softer, more vulnerable pain.

You don't have to carry that burden anymore. You belong with me now. You are mine, Hazel. No past, no tragedy, no betrayal will ever change that. Darshil said

Aarvi's lip quivered as fresh tears welled up in her eyes, but this time, they were tears of relief. She didn't say anything, only leaned into Darshil's chest as he wrapped his arms around her. They stayed like that for a long time, in each other's embrace, until Aarvi's sobs quieted.

The next morning, the mansion was filled with an uneasy calm. Aarvi and Darshil stood together, ready to confront the family and reveal the truth. Aarvi was still emotionally raw from everything, but Darshil stood beside her, his hand firmly around hers, silently assuring her that she wasn't alone in this.

In the living room, Nandini ji, Poorva, and Ruhi were gathered, concerned looks on their faces. The air was thick with tension, as they sensed something important was about to be revealed.

Darshil, Aarvi, what's going on? You've both been so distant the past few days. Is something wrong? Nandini ji asked

Darshil took a deep breath and stepped forward, his voice calm but firm.

There's something you all need to know. Aarvi... was never pregnant. Darshil said seriously

The room fell into stunned silence. Nandini ji and Poorva exchanged confused looks, while Ruhi, too young to fully understand, simply watched with wide eyes.

What do you mean she wasn't pregnant? The reports... everything was there. How could this happen? Poorva asked

Aarvi's throat tightened, but she knew she had to speak. She looked at Darshil, who nodded, encouraging her to go on.

It was all a lie. Siya... she was behind everything. She orchestrated the entire thing. She gave me drugged pastries to make me believe I was pregnant, and then she faked the reports. She wanted to ruin my relationship with Darshil. Aarvi said

Nandini ji gasped, her hand flying to her chest as she tried to process the information.

Siya? But why would she do such a thing? Nandini ji asked in disbelief

Aarvi swallowed hard, her voice shaking slightly as she continued.

She hated me. She always has. I'm not her biological sister, and she resented me for taking her place in the family. But more than that... she did it because she's in love with Darshil. Aarvi said

Nandini ji and Poorva's faces paled with shock. Poorva shook her head in disbelief, trying to make sense of it all.

In love with Darshil bhai? How could she... how could she do something so horrible? We trusted her! Poorva said

Nandini ji's eyes filled with tears as she looked at Aarvi, her voice breaking with emotion.

Aarvi.....I'm so sorry. We had no idea. We didn't protect you from this. Nandini ji said sadly

Aarvi shook her head, tears welling up again.

It's not your fault, Nandini ji. I didn't see it either. She manipulated everyone. Aarvi said tearfully

Darshil, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up, his voice filled with quiet rage.

Siya deceived all of us. She's not who we thought she was. She planned everything, even paying the maid to inform you all about our fights. She wanted to turn us against each other. Darshil said

Nandini ji was heartbroken, her eyes welling up as she reached for Aarvi's hand.

Aarvi... we are your family, no matter what. You are just as much a part of this family as anyone else. Nandini ji said

Aarvi's tears spilled over at Nandini ji's words, and she felt a warmth spread through her chest. Despite everything, she was loved. She had a place here, with these people who truly cared for her.

Poorva, still reeling from the revelation, stepped forward and gently placed a hand on Aarvi's shoulder.

Aarvi don't worry, I am your sister. And don't worry, this sister will always take care of you. Poorva said and hugged Aarvi

Thankyou Poorva. Aarvi said

Aarvi felt overwhelming, grateful for their support but still processing the betrayal from someone she had considered family for so long.

As she looked at Darshil who asks her to smile in sign language.

Aarvi smiles while she took a glance if him.

Now we won't discuss about this anymore. No more bad moods, let's go for breakfast. My Aarvi is really weak these days. Nandini ji.

Everyone gathered for breakfast in the bright, airy dining room. Nandini ji was serving parathas while Ruhi was excitedly talking about her school project. Aarvi sat beside Darshil, feeling a strange warmth around him after everything that had transpired. Though she still felt raw from recent events, Darshil's presence now brought her an odd sense of comfort.

Chachi, you have to come to my school next week! We're making models for the science fair! Will you help me? Ruhi said excitedly

Aarvi smiled, ruffling Ruhi's hair affectionately.

Of course, Ruhi. I'd love to help you. Aarvi said

Aarvi, you've become such a central part of this family. I can't imagine this house without you. Nandini ji said

Aarvi glanced at Darshil, whose expression was unreadable, but she could see a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. Before she could say anything, Darshil leaned in, his voice teasingly low.

Central part, huh? Seems like you've stolen everyone's hearts here... but my heart is still the first one. Darshil whispers

Aarvi blushed, her eyes widening as she elbowed him gently under the table.

Stop it, Darshil! Aarvi said

Darshil chuckled, clearly enjoying the reaction he was getting from her. He leaned back in his chair, looking satisfied.

I can't help it. You're too fun to tease. Darshil said while grinning

Nandini ji watched the exchange with a knowing smile, clearly pleased that things seemed to be lightening up between them.

Alright, Darshil, enough teasing. Don't forget, you have work today. Nandini ji said with a smile

Darshil's expression shifted slightly, his playful demeanor turning more serious as he sighs.

Yes, yes. The office calls, I have a lot of work today. But I'll be back by evening, so don't miss me too much, Mrs. Rajvanshi. Darshil said

Aarvi rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile that crept onto her face.

I'm sure I'll survive. Aarvi said

Darshil smirked, standing up and pushing his chair back. He bent down and lightly kissed the top of Ruhi's head.

Next time, it will be your turn. Darshil whispers in Aarvi's ear that sent a surprising warmth through Aarvi's chest.

With a quick nod to the rest of the family, Darshil headed out of the house, leaving Aarvi blushing furiously.

After Darshil left, Aarvi was wandering around the house, feeling the familiar comfort of family life settling in. She spent some time helping Ruhi with her school project, which involved cutting out paper stars and building a miniature rocket ship.

Chachi, you're the best at this! Look, it's almost done! Ruhi said excitedly

You're the real genius here, Ruhi. I'm just following your instructions. Ruhi said with a smile

Ruhi giggled, clearly enjoying the attention. Nandini ji watched them from the side, her eyes filled with affection.

You've brought so much light into this house, Aarvi. I'm glad you're here. Nandini ji said

Aarvi looked up, her heart swelling at the warm words.

I'm glad too, dadi. It feels like I finally have a family. Aarvi said

Later, Aarvi found herself retreating to the library Darshil had gifted her. The room was lined with towering shelves filled with books, and the scent of pages filled the air. She ran her fingers across the spines of the books, her thoughts drifting back to Darshil.

Sitting down on the couch by the window, Aarvi couldn't stop herself from thinking about him. Despite all the teasing, there was something undeniably tender about him lately, something that made her feel... cared for.

Her cheeks flushed as she thought about his teasing words from earlier.

Why does he affect me so much? I keep saying I don't like him... but... Aarvi thinks

She bit her lip, feeling the warmth rise in her cheeks as memories of their moments together flashed through her mind. The way he looked at her, the way he made her feel seen, cherished, even when she pretended to push him away.

I can't... I can't be falling for him... Can I? Aarvi thinks

The realization was startling, and she shook her head, trying to focus on the book in her lap, but her mind was too preoccupied with Darshil. The way his eyes softened when he looked at her, the way his voice dropped whenever he spoke to her, as if every word was meant just for her.

While Aarvi was lost in her thoughts, Darshil was busy making sure that justice was served. He sat at his desk, on the phone with a contact, his expression grim.

Yes, make sure Siya's medical license is suspended for a long time. She crossed a line, and there has to be consequences. Darshil said

There was a pause as the person on the other end spoke, and Darshil nodded, satisfied.

Good. I want it done quietly but efficiently.

After hanging up, Darshil leaned back in his chair, his mind wandering back to Aarvi. He couldn't wait to get home to her, to tease her some more, and to see that blush on her face. As Shiv arrived there, both if them discussed on a project and then headed to a meeting.

After dinner, Darshil and Aarvi were sitting on the terrace, the cool breeze brushing past them. The sky was dotted with stars, and the city's lights twinkled in the distance. Aarvi leaned against the railing, her arms folded, feeling the peacefulness of the evening.

Darshil joined her, standing close enough that their shoulders brushed.

Beautiful night, isn't it? Darshil said

Aarvi nodded, her gaze fixed on the horizon.

Yes, it is. Aarvi said

Darshil glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, noticing how serene she looked. But there was a mischievous glint in his eye as he leaned closer.

You know, you look even better than the stars and moon tonight. Darshil said

Aarvi turned her head, narrowing her eyes at him.

You really can't stop, can you? Aarvi said

Darshil laughed, clearly pleased with himself.

What can I say? You bring out the poet in me. Darshil said and pulled her close.

Just then, her eyes caught sight of something-a small wound on Darshil's hand. She frowned, her teasing forgotten.

Darshil... what happened to your hand? Aarvi asked

Darshil glanced down at the wound, shrugging it off as if it were nothing.

Oh, this? It's nothing. Just a little accident at the office. Darshil said

But Aarvi wasn't convinced. She stepped closer, gently taking his hand in hers and inspecting the wound.

You should be more careful. You're always acting like nothing can hurt you. Aarvi said

Darshil watched her with a soft smile, touched by her concern.

Nothing can, when you're with me. Waise, itni fikr? Kahi ishq to nhi ho gya mujhse? Darshil said

Aarvi's heart skipped a beat at his words, and she quickly looked away, focusing on cleaning the wound with the small first aid kit she'd brought from inside. Darshil watched her intently, his heart swelling with affection.

Not at all. Waise bhi, Aapke chahne walo ki kami thodi hai. Aarvi said, her expression showed a hint of jealousy.

Par hame intezar to sirf aapka hai. Darshil said

Aarvi swallowed hard, her emotions swirling. She didn't know what to say, but somehow, in that moment, words didn't seem necessary.

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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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