The air was thick with tension as Darshil, Shiv, and Avinash sat in the dimly lit study. The glow of the table lamp illuminated the serious expressions on their faces. A stack of old documents and files lay sprawled across the desk, evidence of the past that had been deliberately buried.
Darshil leaned back in his chair, his sharp gaze fixed on Avinash.
Start from the beginning. Tell me everything you've uncovered. Darshil demanded, his tone leaving no room for evasion.
Avinash adjusted his glasses, pulling out a folder.
I went through the police reports of the accident involving Aarvi's real parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chauhan. At first glance, everything seems straightforward-an accident caused by a truck driver losing control. But when I dug deeper into the case, something stood out. Avinash said
Shiv, sitting beside Darshil, leaned forward.
What did you find? Shiv asked
Avinash flipped through the pages.
The truck driver, Ramesh Yadav, was arrested shortly after the incident. He confessed to losing control of the vehicle due to faulty brakes. But here's the strange part-he was released on bail just two to three months after his arrest. Avinash said
Darshil frowned, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest.
Bail? Who bailed him out? Darshil asked
Avinash hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice steady.
It was Mr. Vivek Rathod. Avinash said.
The room fell silent as the weight of Avinash's words settled over them. Shiv's eyes widened in disbelief, and Darshil's jaw clenched, his anger barely contained.
Vivek Rathod? The man who raised Aarvi? The man who claimed to care for her like a daughter? Darshil said, his voice dangerously low.
Yes. I double-checked the records. He paid the bail amount and signed the necessary documents. After that, the case seemed to vanish from public scrutiny. The driver disappeared, and the investigation went cold. Avinash said
Shiv exhaled sharply, his mind racing.
Why would Vivek Rathod do that? What reason could he possibly have to protect the man responsible for Aarvi's parents' deaths? Shiv asked
Darshil's eyes burned with fury as he stood abruptly, pacing the room.
Because he had something to gain. Think about it. Aarvi's inheritance-her father's company and property-everything was left in Rathod's care. If Aarvi's parents hadn't died, Rathod would never have had access to that power or wealth. Darshil said
Avinash nodded in agreement.
It's possible Vivek Rathod orchestrated the accident to gain control. The will explicitly stated that Aarvi would inherit everything when she turned 22. Until then, Vivek Rathod had full authority. And if anything happened to Aarvi before she came of age, the property would go to charity-not him. Avinash said
Shiv's fists clenched at his sides.
So Vivek Rathod bailed the driver out to silence him. He couldn't risk Ramesh revealing anything that might tie him to the accident. Shiv said
Darshil stopped pacing, his eyes narrowing as he stared out the window.
It makes sense. Vivek Rathod played the role of the grieving friend, took Aarvi in, and acted like a savior. All the while, he was reaping the benefits of her inheritance. Darshil said
What do we do now, Darshil? If Rathods are behind this, they needs to pay. Shiv said as he stood, his voice firm.
Darshil turned to face them, his expression resolute.
First, we find Ramesh Yadav. He's the key to exposing Vivek Rathod. If Rathods paid him to stage the accident or keep quiet, we'll make him talk. Darshil said
Finding Ramesh won't be easy. He vanished after his release, and Vivek likely ensured he stayed out of sight. Avinash said, his tone cautious
Darshil smirked darkly, his confidence unwavering.
No one stays hidden forever, Avinash. I have resources Vivek Rathod can only dream of. We'll find him-and when we do, Rathod will regret ever crossing Aarvi. Darshil said
I'll help however I can, Darshil. Aarvi deserves to know the truth, and her parents deserve justice. Shiv said
Darshil placed a hand on Shiv's shoulder, his grip firm.
Thank you, Shiv. We'll do this together. Vivek Rathod thinks he's untouchable, but he's about to learn how wrong he is. Darshil said
Avinash packed up the documents, his determination matching theirs.
I'll dig deeper into Mr. Rathod's financials and connections. If there's a trail leading to Ramesh, I'll find it. Avinash said
Darshil nodded, his voice cold and commanding.
Good. Keep me updated. This ends now. For Aarvi's sake, we'll uncover the truth and ensure Vivek pays for his sins. Darshil said
As the three men solidified their plan, the atmosphere in the room crackled with intensity.
It was well past midnight. The house was quiet except for the occasional rustle of the wind against the curtains. Darshil had just returned from a long meeting with Shiv and Avinash. His mind was burdened with the weight of the investigation, but as he stepped into the bedroom, the sight of Aarvi erased every other thought.
She was sitting by the large window, her knees drawn to her chest, a soft blanket draped over her shoulders. The moonlight bathed her in an ethereal glow, making her look almost otherworldly.
Why aren't you asleep? It's late. Darshil said as he approached towards her
Aarvi turned her head, her eyes soft but questioning.
I could ask you the same. You've been so busy lately, Darshil. I barely get to see you anymore. Aarvi said
Darshil sighed, crouching down beside her chair.
I'm sorry. Work has been... demanding. But I'm here now. Darshil said
Aarvi reached out and gently traced his jawline with her fingers.
You look tired. You push yourself too hard. I worry about you, you know? Aarvi said
Darshil caught her hand, bringing it to his lips and pressing a soft kiss to her palm.
You're my strength, Hazel. Seeing you like this, waiting for me, reminds me why I do everything I do. You make it all worth it. Darshil said
Aarvi's cheeks flushed slightly, but her eyes stayed locked on his.
Sometimes, I feel like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, Darshil. But you don't have to. I'm here for you too. Aarvi said
Darshil stood and pulled her gently to her feet, wrapping his arms around her. She rested her head against his chest, feeling his heartbeat steady and strong.
You're already doing more than you know, Hazel. Just being here, being mine... it's enough to keep me going. Darshil said
Just take care of yourself too. I don't want to lose you. Aarvi said
You'll never lose me. You're my everything, Hazel. My life begins and ends with you. Darshil said
That sounds suspiciously like a vow, Mr. Rajvanshi. Aarvi said with a playful smile.
I'm a man of my word, Mrs. Rajvanshi. And I vow to love and protect you-always. Aarvi said
Aarvi laughed softly, the sound like music to Darshil's ears.
As they stood by the window, wrapped in each other's warmth, Aarvi broke the comfortable silence with a teasing smile.
You know, Darshil, sometimes I feel like youâre straight out of one of those romance novels I used to read. Aarvi said playfully
Darshil raised an eyebrow, intrigued, as he pulled back slightly to look at her.
Oh? And what makes you think that? Darshil asked
Aarvi shrugged, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
The way you always seem to know the right thing to say, how you protect me like some knight in shining armor, and⦠well, your intensity. Youâre exactly like those brooding, mysterious but so romantic men authors dream up. Aarvi said
Darshil chuckled, his deep voice reverberating through the quiet room.
A brooding, mysterious and romantic man, huh? Should I be flattered or concerned? Darshil asked in a teasing tone
Aarvi laughed, leaning into his chest.
You should be flattered. I always loved those charactersâtheir passion, their loyalty, their devotion. But you⦠(She looks up at him, her voice softening.) Youâre even better, Darshil. Because youâre real. Aarvi said
Darshilâs expression softened, and he cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing over her cheek.
Hazel, those men in your novels⦠theyâre perfect because theyâre not real. Theyâre crafted from words and dreams. But me? Iâm flesh and blood. I have flaws, mistakes, and a past darker than Iâd like to admit. Darshil said
Aarvi opened her mouth to protest, but Darshil placed a finger over her lips.
But the one thing I know is that Iâll spend my entire life making sure you never doubt how much you mean to me. I may not be a perfect man from your stories, but Iâm your man. And thatâs the only role I care about. Darshil continued
Aarvi felt her heart swell as tears brimmed in her eyes.
Darshil⦠youâre so much more than perfect to me. Youâre my reality, my safe place, my home. Aarvi said
Darshil smiled, his gaze intense as he leaned closer, their foreheads touching.
Then let me be your story, Aarvi. The kind you write not with words, but with momentsâour moments. Iâll be the flawed, real man who loves you more than any fictional hero ever could. Darshil said
Aarviâs tears spilled over as she reached up, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Youâre more than I could have ever dreamed, Darshil. My story begins and ends with you. Aarvi said
Darshil pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, his arms tightening around her as if he would never let her go.
2 DAYS LATER:
The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden hue over Darshil's office. He sat in his chair, flipping through files, his sharp eyes scanning every detail. Shiv leaned against the wall, arms crossed, while Avinash typed furiously on his laptop. The room was tense with unspoken anticipation.
Finally, Avinash stopped typing and leaned back, his expression serious as he turned the laptop towards Shiv and Darshil.
I've found it. Vivek's financial records-there are irregularities that tie directly to Ramesh Yadav. Avinash said
Darshil's eyes narrowed as he leaned forward.
Explain. Darshil said
Shortly after Mr. and Mrs. Chauhan's accident, Rathod withdrew large sums of money from an account that isn't listed in his company's records. These weren't random withdrawals-they were consistent over months. Avinash said
Where does the money lead? Shiv asked
That's the interesting part. It went into another account under a pseudonym, but I traced it back to Ramesh Yadav. Rathod was paying him regularly. Avinash said
So Rathods didn't just bail Ramesh out of jail-he paid him to stay silent. Probably to make sure Ramesh never confessed. Darshil said
Exactly. And that's not all. The last transaction linked to this account came from a small town-Rajpura. I ran a quick background check, and Ramesh has been spotted there. Avinash said
Darshil stood abruptly, his chair scraping against the floor.
Rajpura. That's where he's hiding. Rathod's arrogance will be his downfall. Darshil said
So, what's the plan? We can't just storm in without knowing if Ramesh will talk. Shiv said
This has everything we need to pressure him. Bank statements, timelines, and even the withdrawal slips Rathod signed. If Ramesh doesn't talk, we'll make him. Avinash said as he handed a file to Darshil
Ramesh Yadav knows the truth. If Rathod paid him to stay silent, he also knows who orchestrated the accident. We're going to Rajpura. Darshil said
And if Ramesh refuses to cooperate? Shiv asked
He won't have a choice. Darshil said
Darshil, Vivek Rathod might know we're closing in. If he gets wind of this, he might try to eliminate Ramesh before we can reach him. Avinash said
Then we'll have to be faster. Vivek's greed and betrayal end here. I'll protect Aarvi's truth-even if I have to destroy him to do it. Darshil said
When do we leave? Shiv asked
Tomorrow at first light. Avinash, you come with us. I want every detail at our fingertips. Darshil said
Understood. Let's bring this to light-for Aarvi's sake. Avinash said
After Avinash left to prepare for the journey, Shiv stayed behind. Darshil sat by the window, staring into the night.
You okay? This isn't just about revenge, is it? Shiv asked
It's about justice-for Aarvi, for her parents. Rathods turned her life into a nightmare. She deserves the truth, even if it shatters her. Darshil said
And what if this truth hurts her more than it helps? Aarvi's been through enough. Shiv said
Iâll make sure sheâs never alone in this. Rathods wonât hurt her againâIâll see to it personally. Darshil said
And if Rathod tries to stop us? Shiv asked
He wonât live long enough to regret it. Darshil said, turning back to the window, his voice low and dangerous.
The next day began early, with Darshil and Shiv strategizing in Darshilâs study. Maps, profiles, and timelines were spread across the table. Darshil paced while Shiv leaned against the desk, deep in thought.
Ramesh is our key to Rathodâs crimes. We canât afford any mistakes. Avinash said he was spotted in Rajpura, right? Darshil said
Yes. Itâs a small town, but finding him wonât be easy. Heâll be hiding. Shiv said
Hiding from the world, maybe. But not from me. Iâve already sent my men to Rajpura. Theyâll spread out and search every corner of the town. Darshil said
We need to make sure Ramesh doesnât slip away. If Rathod finds out weâre after him, heâll try to eliminate Ramesh. Darshil said
Which is why we have to be faster and smarter. Letâs head to Rajpura now. Darshil said and they headed towards the main gate of mansion.
They get into the car as Darshil drove towards their way to Rajpura, his mind completely focused on the present mission.
Darshil and Shiv arrived in Rajpura later that morning, accompanied by a small team of Darshilâs trusted men. The town was quiet, with narrow streets and old buildings.
Split into pairs. Cover every possible hideoutâgarages, inns, abandoned places. Ask questions, but donât draw attention to yourselves. I want Ramesh here by sundown. Darshil said to his men
The men nodded and dispersed. Shiv look around the modest streets.
Ramesh knows this place better than us. If he senses danger, he might try to flee. Shiv said
He wonât get far. Iâve already stationed men at the bus stops and highways. If he runs, weâll catch him. Darshil said in a cold tone
They began asking locals for information. At a small tea stall, an old man offered a lead.
Ramesh Yadav? He used to work at a truck repair shop near the outskirts. Havenât seen him in a while, but you might find someone there who knows. The old man said pointing towards the road
Thank you. Keep this to yourself. Darshil said and handed him some money to keep his mouth shut
Darshil and Shiv arrived at the shop, a rundown building surrounded by rusted vehicles. Inside, a young mechanic hesitated when they mentioned Ramesh.
I donât know anyone by that name. Mechanic said, avoiding their gaze.
Youâre lying. Donât make me repeat myself. Darshil said, his voice dangerous as he took some steps closer.
Weâre not here to hurt you. Just tell us where he is, and weâll leave. Shiv said
The mechanic hesitated before sighing.
He doesnât come here often, but thereâs an old warehouse he uses on the outskirts. You might find him there. Mechanic said
Good choice. Darshil said with a dark smirk
Darshilâs men surrounded the warehouse, ensuring no escape routes. Darshil and Shiv entered cautiously, their footsteps echoing in the dim space.
Inside, Ramesh Yadav was sitting on a crate, eating a modest meal. He froze when he saw Darshil.
W-what do you want? I donât know anything! Ramesh said, dropping his place
Ramesh Yadav. Youâve been hiding long enough. Time to answer for your sins. Darshil said, stepping forward
Please! I didnât do anything! I swear! Ramesh said
You tampered with Mr. Chauhan's car and took Vivek Rathodâs money. Donât lie to us. Shiv said
Darshil motioned to his men. They grabbed Ramesh, dragging him to his feet.
We can do this the easy way or the hard way. Either you come with us and tell the truth, or I leave you here for Rathod to find out you talked to us. Do you think heâll let you live? Darshil said leaning closer
Rameshâs face turned pale.
Iâll talk! Just donât leave me here! Ramesh said as he sobs
Bring him to the car. Weâre leaving. Darshil said
Ramesh struggled, but the men were too strong. They blindfolded him and whisked him away in an unmarked SUV.
Ramesh was dragged into Darshilâs mansion, his blindfold removed as he stumbled into the grand study. Darshil sat in his chair, his piercing gaze fixed on Ramesh. Shiv stood beside him, arms crossed, exuding quiet menace.
Sit. Darshil said
Ramesh sat in a chair, his hands trembling.
Start talking. Why did Vivek Rathod pay you? Darshil asked
It wasnât an accident! Vivek Rathod planned it all! He wanted the Chauhan Industries for himself. He told me to tamper with the brakes of their car. He said it would look like a mechanical failure! But to make sure, the work is done on the specific day, he asked me to hit their car once I get a chance on that night. Ramesh said
And you just did it? Did he threaten you? Shiv asked
He promised me money and a new life. But after the accident, he made me take the fall. Then he bailed me out and told me to disappear. Ramesh said
And Anjali Rathod? Was she involved? Darshil asked
Ramesh nodded frantically.
She was the one who made sure no one suspected anything. She handled the police, the media⦠everything. Ramesh said
And you just did all of this for money? Shiv asked
He gave me money to keep me quiet. Vivek Rathod said if I ever talked, theyâd kill me. I didnât want to do it, but they left me no choice! Ramesh said
No choice? You killed innocent people for money. Did you ever think about the daughter they left behind? Darshil said
I⦠Iâm sorry. Iâll testify. Iâll tell the authorities everything. Ramesh said
Youâll do more than testify. Youâll help us destroy Vivek Rathod and his empire. If you betray us, there wonât be a place on Earth where you can hide. Darshil said
Iâll do whatever you want. Just donât hurt me. Ramesh said, while crying.
Darshil exchanged a glance with Shiv, who nodded.
We need this on record. Avinash will take his statement. Shiv said
Youâre not leaving until Iâm sure Rathods pays for their crimes. Pray that you donât test my patience. Darshil said in a dangerous voice
Ramesh nodded shakily, his face pale as the weight of his betrayal settled on him.
Suddenly, a faint noise came from outside the study doorâa soft gasp.
Darshilâs sharp instincts kicked in.
Stay here. Darshil said and he rose, his expression darkening, and strode to the door.
As Darshil opened the door, his heart dropped. Aarvi stood in the hallway, frozen. Her pale face and wide eyes reflected a storm of disbelief and pain. She looked at Darshil, her lips trembling. Her wide, tear-filled eyes revealed that she had overheard everything.
Darshil⦠is this true? Did they⦠did my parents⦠Aarvi asked, her voice barely above whisper
Darshilâs chest tightened. He stepped forward, but she instinctively stepped back, her hands trembling.
Hazel, listen to meâ Darshil said but Aarvi interrupted
Tell me itâs not true! Please tell me itâs not true! They... they werenât killed, right? It was an accident, right? Aarvi said, her voice raising in pain
Itâs true, Aarvi. Your parents didnât die in an accident. Rathods planned it. Darshil said
Aarviâs knees buckled slightly as the weight of the truth hit her. She clutched her chest, struggling to breathe, her eyes red and wide with disbelief.
Noâ¦no, this canât be true! They raised me! They loved meâor at least, I thought they did. How could they?! Aarvi said , looking down, her voice cracking as she continued to sob.
Darshil moved closer, holding her shoulders.
Hazel you need to calm down. Listen to me. Youâre not alone in thisâIâm with you. Weâll get justice for your parents, I promise. Darshil said
Aarvi shookher head, looking down as if she was losing her senses.
Everything I believed⦠it was all a lie. They killed my parents, Darshil! My real parents⦠and for what? Money?! Aarvi whispered as if she was murmuring to herself.
She clutched Darshilâs shirt as her breathing became shallow and erratic.
Hazel , look at me. Breathe, love. Deep breaths. Iâm here. Please calm down bachha, breathe for me please. Darshil said as he pulled her close wrapping his arms around her
She tried but couldnât control her panic. Her breaths grew ragged, and her body weakened as the shock consumed her.
Darshil... I canât... Aarvi whispered
Aarvi's legs gave out as she fainted in his arms. But Darshil caught her before she hit the ground, his heart pounding.
Shiv! Get some water! Darshil said
Shiv rushed to a nearby table, grabbing a glass of water. Darshil gently laid Aarvi on the couch in the study, his hand brushing her hair back. Meanwhile Darshil's men took Ramesh out of that place.
Hazel, wake up. Come on, love. Open your eyes. Darshil said softly, his heart almost stopping at her condition
Shiv handed him the water, his expression concerned.
This was too much for her, Darshil. She wasnât ready to hear it like this. Shiv said
I didnât want her to hear it this way. Damn it, I shouldâve made sure the door was locked. Darshil said
, gritting his teeth.
Darshil, sheâs in shock. She needs rest. Shiv said
Darshil nodded, his voice soft but firm.
I wonât let them hurt you anymore. Youâre safe with me, I promise Hazel. Open your eyes, love. Please. Darshil whispered, as he rubbed her palm.
After a few moments, Aarvi stirred faintly, her eyelids fluttering open.
Darshil..... Aarvi whispered in a weak voice.
**********
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