Darshil arrived at an isolated warehouse on the city's outskirts. Inside, the dim light revealed Nick, bound to a chair, his face bruised and hands tightly tied with thick ropes. Daksh and Rakshit stood on either side of him, their expressions as cold as steel. When Nick spotted Darshil entering, a flash of fear flickered across his face.
Darshil's gaze was sharp, his eyes filled with rage that simmered just below the surface. He moved deliberately, taking a seat opposite Nick and tossing a thick file onto the table between them. The papers inside landed with a loud thud, making Nick flinch. Darshil leaned forward, his voice dangerously calm.
Sign them. Darshil ordered, his tone leaving no room for discussion.
Nick looked at the papers, his mouth twisting in defiance.
What... what is this? You think you can threaten me into signing something without even telling me what it's about? Nick said
These are the rights to the deal you wanted. Now, it's ours- mine. You're going to sign it over without a second thought. Because right now, you're at my mercy, Nick. Darshil said, his voice steady as razor
Nick's face twisted in anger.
I'm not signing a damn thing. Nick said.
Darshil's expression darkened.
Without breaking eye contact, he gave a subtle nod to Daksh and Rakshit, who immediately drew their guns, aiming straight at Nick's chest.
Do you understand now? You had the audacity to lay a hand on my wife. And now you think you get to refuse me? This signature is the only thing keeping you alive right now. Darshil's voice was low, laced with menace, he leaned back, his eyes cold.
Nick swallowed hard, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.
After a moment of hesitation, his hand moved reluctantly toward the papers. He scrawled his signature on each page, his hand shaking, his gaze never leaving Darshil's face.
When he finished, Darshil calmly picked up the file, barely glancing at the signed pages. He closed it with finality and placed it aside. Then, in a sudden, vicious movement, he grabbed Nick's hand, the same hand that had dared to touch Aarvi and bent it back until there was a sickening snap.
Nick screamed, pain shooting through his arm.
Youâ! Nick gasped in agony, his face twisted in pain and rage.
That's for touching her. The way you tried to control her... feel it now. Darshil said coldly, his expression unflinching as he dropped Nick's broken hand.
Nick's eyes widened as he realized he was at their mercy, and there was no escaping what came next. With one final, silent nod from Darshil, Daksh raised his gun, the barrel leveled at Nick's head.
Good bye Nick. Darshil said, his voice void of any emotion, as Daksh pulled the trigger, ending Nick's life with a single, deafening shot.
As the echo of the gunshot faded, Darshil let out a long breath, as if releasing the last of his anger. He turned to Daksh and Rakshit, giving them a firm nod.
Dispose of him. He doesn't exist anymore. And he never will.. Darshil said
Rakshit and Daksh gave him a confirming nod and Darshil walked out of the warehouse, with the file.
When Darshil returned home, he went straight to the bedroom, where Aarvi was sitting, anxiously waiting for him. Her eyes softened when she saw him, but they held a trace of worry. She quickly got up as he walked in.
Darshil! What.... What did you do to Nick? Aarvi asked
Darshil's face remained unreadable. He walked over to her, removing his jacket and tossing it aside before finally meeting her gaze.
Nothing you need to worry about Hazel. Darshil said softly, his expression softening as he looked into her eyes.
Darshil tell me the truth. Aarvi said as if she knew he was lying.
You're not telling me the truth. I know you, Darshil. You don't just let things slide. Aarvi said, her tone a mix of suspicion and fear.
Fine.....I broke his hand. Darshil said simply, his tone calm but with an edge that made Aarvi's eyes widen.
You what? Aarvi gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.
Just his hand. Darshil shrugged, as if it were the most casual thing in the world.
He looked at her, the hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
And don't worry about the deal, either. That's in the car. Nick handed over everything. Darshil said
But Aarvi wasn't convinced. She narrowed her eyes, studying him carefully.
Just his hand, Darshil? . That's all you did? Aarvi said as she pressed, her voice low
Darshil's smirk faltered. He let out a small sigh, not wanting to reveal the full truth. But Aarvi wasn't backing down. Her eyes bore into his, filled with concern and an urgency that he couldn't ignore.
Alright... Daksh shot him. Darshil said after a long pause
Aarvi staggered back, her face blanching as his words sank in.
You... you killed him? Aarvi said
Darshil's jaw clenched as he watched the shock and horror spread across her face.
Hazel, he tried to hurt you. No one gets away with that. Darshil said firmly, trying to keep his voice steady. But she could see the storm brewing beneath his calm exterior
I didn't want you to... kill him, Darshil. This isn't what I wanted. Not because of me. Aarvi said as her voice was filled with a mixture of anger and grief. Tears filled her eyes, and she stepped back, putting a small distance between them.
Darshil reached out to her, but she pushed his hand away, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Hazel, listen to me. Darshil said
No, I won't. You think I want to see you like this? Turning into... into someone who kills, just to protect me? Aarvi said, her voice trembling.
Darshil's expression softened, and he tried to reach for her again.
Hazel, I had to protect you. Darshil said in a gentle voice
But this isn't protection! You think killing solves everything, but it doesn't! I don't want you to become this... this monster for me. Aarvi said, her voice breaking, she covered her face with her hands, her shoulders shaking.
Darshil clenched his fists, taking a deep breath as he tried to steady himself.
Hazel....He hurt you. He disrespected you. I couldn't let him walk away after what he did. Darshil said, his eyes pleading
And what about you? What does this make you, Darshil? Every time someone crosses a line, are you just going to take their life? Aarvi said, her eyes glistening with tears.
Darshil's face tightened, but her words cut through him. He struggled to find the right words, but all he could do was stare at her, the weight of his actions heavy on his shoulders.
Aarvi let out a shaky breath, trying to calm herself.
I just wanted you to stand up for me, not kill for me. I don't want you to be a murderer. Not for me. Aarvi yelled
Her words settled over him like a weight. He took a step toward her, but her gaze was distant, as if she were seeing a stranger standing in front of her.
But you did, Darshil. You think I wanted you to kill someone for me? Do you have any idea how much this... how much it terrifies me to know that someone died because of me? Aarvi said, her voice cracking.
Darshil took a steadying breath, watching the hurt and anger in Aarviâs eyes. He could feel her pain, and as much as it stung, he understood why she was upset. Keeping his voice soft, he moved closer, hands open, making sure she saw that he was here only to comfort her.
Hazel.....I know you're hurt⦠that youâre disappointed. And I know I made a choice you donât agree with. But, please, listen to me. Let me explain. Darshil said as he took another small step closer.
Aarvi shook her head, biting back more tears, as if she wasnât ready to let her guard down.
Darshil, what you did⦠itâs not right. You think this solves something, but it doesnât. Violence isnât the answer, no matter how justified it feels. Aarvi said
Darshil nodded slowly, taking her words to heart.
I hear you. I really do. And if I could take away all of this pain from you, I would. Darshil said
Aarvi's eyes flickered with a mix of sadness and anger.
Then why did you do it? Why go to such extremes? I donât want this darkness to keep following us, Darshil. Aarvi said, her voice cracking slightly.
Darshil took a step closer, gently reaching for her hand. When she didnât pull away, he wrapped his fingers around hers, holding her hand with a warmth that made her feel grounded.
I understand that what I did was harsh. But, Hazel..⦠when I saw those marks on your wrist, when I saw how shaken you were⦠it made my blood boil. Youâre the most precious part of my life. I would go through anything to make sure no one ever harms you. Darshil admitted, his voice steady yet sincere.
Aarvi looked away, her gaze fixed on the floor, but he gently lifted her chin so she would meet his eyes.
But I realize now, that I acted without thinking of what you would want⦠of what might matter to you. Darshil said
Aarvi let out a shaky breath, still holding onto her anger but feeling it soften just a little under his touch.
You canât just fight every battle with your fists, Darshil. You canât solve everything this way. Aarvi said
Darshil gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
I know, Hazel. I know this scares you⦠and I donât want to be the reason you feel afraid. Thatâs the last thing I want. Youâre my world. And if that means changing the way I protect you⦠then Iâll do it. I promise. Darshil said as his voice softened even further.
Aarviâs anger was beginning to wane, though her eyes still held a sadness that cut deep. She pulled her hand back, her voice barely above a whisper.
Itâs not just about me, Darshil. Itâs about you. I donât want to see you losing yourself in all of this. Aarvi said
Darshil sighed, running a hand through his hair as he tried to find the right words.
Hazel....Iâm sorry I went to that extent. Maybe my anger got the better of me, but I swear to you, I did it because I love you. Iâll work on this, on me, if thatâs what you need. Darshil said
I just want you here, Darshil. Not constantly haunted by guilt or driven by anger. I want the man I love to be free from that. Aarvi said
Then thatâs exactly who Iâll be for you. Iâll be the man you deserve, the one who protects you without compromising his heart. And if that means holding back my anger, Iâll do it. I want you to feel safe with me, always. He stepped closer, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear and pulled her into his embrace.
Aarvi closed her eyes as she melted in his arms, his heartbeat made her feel safe and comfortable again as she rested her head on his chest.
I love you Darshil.... I am just scared. Aarvi said
You don't have to be scared of anything..... You're my wife. I'll handle everything, just trust me. Iâm here for you, and that means Iâm willing to be a better man. Darshil said as he pulled her even more closer.
In the early morning haze, Darshil drove Rakshit to the airport, the quiet hum of the engine filling the silence between them. The two shared a comfortable camaraderie, occasionally exchanging glances, but there was a quiet understandingâthey both had a lot on their minds.
As they pulled up to the terminal, Rakshit looked over at Darshil, a slight smirk playing on his lips.
You know, I think your familyâs the only one that could get me to leave work and take a break like this. Rakshit said, unbuckling his seatbelt.
You deserved the break, Rakshit. Youâre way too serious all the time. But donât worry, weâll have you back to work soon enough. Darshil said
Just make sure not to burn everything down before Iâm back, yeah? Rakshit said while grabbing his bag
Darshil reached out, clapping Rakshitâs shoulder firmly.
Safe travels, my friend. And donât forget to call once youâve landed. You know how Dadi worries. Darshil said
Youâve got it. Take care of everything here, and look out for everyone, especially Aarvi. Rakshit said with a smile
With a final nod, Rakshit stepped out of the car, giving a wave before disappearing into the bustling airport crowd. Darshil watched him go, his gaze lingering a moment longer before pulling away from the curb, a sense of pride and loyalty lingering between them.
Later, it was a calm afternoon when Poorva stepped out of her college campus. She waved goodbye to a few friends, her mind drifting as she planned out her evening. Suddenly, one of her classmates, Riya, approached her with an excited smile.
Hey, Poorva! I think your boyfriend is here. Riya said with a mischievous glint in her eye.
Shiv? He didnât tell me heâd be coming. She replied, confused.
Maybe he wanted to surprise you! I just saw him a few minutes ago, standing near the back entrance of the campus. Go check it out. Riya said
A smile broke across Poorvaâs face as she shook her head, amused. Shiv and his surprises, she thought. With a light-hearted laugh, she began walking toward the secluded area Riya had mentioned, her steps slow and deliberate as excitement bubbled within her.
As she walked, Poorva pulled out her phone and dialed Shivâs number. She couldnât resist teasing him, eager to see if heâd play along with his surprise visit.
Hey, Mr. Surprise. Poorva greeted him with a grin, the phone pressed to her ear.
Hello Poorva, What's up? Shiv said, his voice came in, slightly distracted
Donât play dumb with me. I know youâre near the college. Are you hiding behind a tree or something? Poorva replied playfully, walking closer to the silent area where she spotted a manâs silhouette in the distance.
Poorva, Iâm at the office. Are you okay? Shiv replied, the confusion in his voice turning to concern.
Poorva giggled, not realizing the gravity of his tone.
Nice try. But I know itâs you. Iâm almost there, you knowâ¦you donât need to pretend. Poorva said
But Shivâs tone grew urgent.
Poorva, Iâm serious. Iâm in the office right now. I havenât come to your college. Listen to meâstep back, now. This doesnât sound right. Shiv said, his voice laced with worry.
Poorvaâs smile faltered. She stopped, glancing toward the man in the distance, her instincts finally kicking in.
But⦠Shiv, are you sure you didn't.... Poorva said
Iâm sure. Poorva, get out of there. Go back to the main road right now! Shiv interrupted, his voice sharp.
The seriousness in Shivâs voice cut through her playful mood, and a chill ran down her spine. She stopped, heart hammering as the man turned slightly, his face coming into full view.
He was unfamiliar, and his eyes held a predatory glint. Before she could process the situation, she felt two strong hands grab her arms from behind.
Poorva gasped, her phone slipping from her grasp and clattering to the ground.
Shiv! Poorva shouted, panic lacing her voice.
On the other end of the line, Shivâs heart stopped.
Poorva! Poorva, can you hear me? Shiv yelled, the dread in his voice evident. But her phone lay discarded on the pavement, Shivâs voice faintly echoing from it.
One of the men yanked her roughly, covering her mouth to muffle her scream as she struggled against their hold. The other grabbed her phone, shutting it off with a smirk.
Nice try. The man muttered, pocketing it before nodding to his partner. They dragged her towards a waiting black car, her muffled screams fading as they shoved her into the back seat and slammed the door shut.
Inside the car, Poorvaâs breaths came in shallow gasps, her mind racing with fear and desperation. She tried to kick the door, but the menâs iron grip on her arms held her down firmly.
Let me go! Poorva managed to shout, her voice a mixture of anger and terror.
The man in the front seat glanced back at her with a smirk.
Shhh. Be a good girl, and this will go a lot smoother. The man said
Shiv burst into Darshilâs cabin, his face pale and eyes wild with desperation. Darshil was in the middle of reviewing files when he looked up, immediately sensing the urgency.
Darshil! Poorvaâs⦠sheâs been taken! Shiv said, his voice cracked as he caught his breath.
Darshilâs expression shifted instantly. His eyes darkened, a mixture of fear and fury flashing across his face.
What do you mean, taken? Darshil asked, standing up abruptly, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the edge of his desk.
She was leaving college, and⦠I was on the phone with her. She thought I was there to meet her, but it wasnât me. Someone else was there, someone pretending to be me. Before I could warn her, she was grabbed. I heard her scream, and thenânothing. She is kidnapped. Shiv said
Darshilâs fists clenched tightly, his body rigid with tension.
So it means â Darshil said thinking about it
It means someone was waiting for her. And she dropped the phone; I couldnât hear anything more. I tried calling back, but it was switched off. Shiv said
Darshil closed his eyes, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging within him. But it was no useâfear, anger, and the fierce protectiveness he felt for Poorva all boiled up, and he couldnât ignore it. He opened his eyes, now steely and resolved.
Whom do you want me to call now? Darshil asked
No one. Weâre not waiting for anyone. Weâre going to find her now. Darshil said
But we donât know where theyâve taken her or whoâs behind this. Shiv said
Darshil slammed his fist on the desk.
I donât care. Weâll comb every inch of this city if we have to. Darshil said
Whoever took her just made the biggest mistake of their life. Shiv said
Darshil strode toward the door, grabbing his keys . Shiv followed, both their hearts racing. Darshil's mind already racing about how he is gonna deal with this. On the other hand, Shiv's heart and mind was filled with worries and concern for Poorva.
*********
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.
Thankyouð¥