Chapter 25 | Her past

Socha tujhe janta hu main, wakif hu tere har dard se

Par chupaya tune apne har  dard is kadar, main khud na talas Paya kambakhat

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As I sat amidst the suffocating darkness, my room transformed into a reflection of my tormented soul. Shadows danced upon walls, like specters performing a haunting ballet. The air thickened with malevolent energy, heavy with the weight of my unrelenting fury. My body, a mere vessel for the tempest raging through my mind, felt numb, a temporary reprieve from the agony that threatened to consume me.

Ashika's pale, lifeless face haunted me, an ethereal specter etched into my psyche like a gruesome work of art. Her eyes, once bright and radiant, now dimly lit, like candles flickering in the wind, taunted me, their silence screaming accusations. My own eyes, bloodshot and burning with an otherworldly intensity, stared blankly, lost in labyrinthine thoughts, searching for the culprit behind her misery. The pain of her suffering seared my mind, branding me with an unquenchable thirst for vengeance.

Rage simmered, a cauldron overflowing with venom, as I thought of her vulnerability. Self-loathing consumed me, an abyss of recrimination that threatened to swallow me whole. "How could I fail her?" I seethed, my voice barely audible, a mere whisper of the turmoil brewing within. My mind screamed for justice, for retribution, for blood.

Fury exploded, unleashing hellish destruction upon the room. Furniture shattered, glass exploded, and maniacal laughter echoed through the chaos, a chilling harmony that mirrored the madness consuming me. I was a force of nature, unstoppable and unrelenting. "You're worthless, Randhawa!" I bellowed, my voice shattering windows, ripping through the silence like a dagger. "Incompetent! Unable to safeguard your love!" Each word cuts deeper, self-inflicted wounds that would never heal.

My fists clenched, I pounded my chest, blows raining like malevolent hail, each strike a testament to my failure. Knuckles cracked, blood streaming down my torso, a gruesome reminder of my inadequacy. "Who dares harm my sweetheart?" I screamed, tears welling, blurring my vision. The room spun, a kaleidoscope of colors, as I stumbled toward the mirror.

Shirtless, my well-built body now marred by crimson bruises, I grinned maniacally, a madman admiring his handiwork. "You deserve agony, Randhawa," I hissed, gaze locked on my reflection. "Pain for failing love. You don't know who's behind her misery...you don't know who to annihilate." My eyes gleamed with a psychopathic intensity, a window into the abyss that had become my soul.

With a feral roar, I punched the mirror. Shattered glass rained, and I laughed, mesmerized by my blood-soaked fist. The shards reflected my shattered sanity, a thousand pieces of a puzzle that would never be whole again. Tears threatened to spill, but I clenched my jaw, refusing release. Eyes aglow with psychopathic intensity, I cradled my bloodied hand, a grotesque lullaby.

"I'll unearth you," I vowed to the darkness. "I'll unearth the culprit. And I'll unleash unholy retribution." Maniacal laughter echoed, chilling harmony, as darkness enveloped me, a shroud of madness that would forever conceal the remnants of my sanity.

I paced my dimly lit study, phone clenched in my fist, as the shadows danced upon the walls, echoing the turmoil within. My mind racing with scenarios, each one fueling my rage, I couldn't shake the conviction: my life condition was no accident. Someone was responsible, and I'd stop at nothing to unmask them.

With a deep breath, I dialed Mark's number, my trusted informant, and confidant. The line connected, and Mark's cautious tone filtered through.

"Mark, ," I announced, my voice low and commanding.

"Boss?" Mark replied, instinctively knowing better than to delay.

"Queen case. I want everything. Her entire history. Leave no stone unturned, no secret unexposed." My words dripped with urgency and menace.

"Understood, Boss," Mark responded, but I cut him off.

"No, Mark. You don't understand. I want it all. Every detail, every secret, every whisper. If you fail me this time...you'll know hell." My voice dropped to a menacing whisper, heavy with unspoken threats.

Mark's hesitation was palpable. "Y-yes, Boss. I'll get it done."

"Today, Mark. I expect results today." The weight of my expectation hung in the air.

I hung up, my eyes burning with intensity, as I poured myself a whiskey. The amber liquid mirrored the flames of vengeance burning within. My gaze fell upon Jaana's photo on my desk.

"Whoever did this will pay," I vowed, my voice barely audible, a promise to myself and Jaana.

My phone buzzed, snapping me back to reality.

"Boss. I've found something," Mark announced, his tone laced with trepidation.

My grip on the glass tightened.

"Speak."

"Queen past...it's complicated. Her family—" Mark began.

"Cut to the chase, Mark," I interrupted, patience wore thin.

" It's so mysterious and complicated, Boss. A person connected to her past which may be a reason. Her dad and step dad."

My eyes narrowed. And my mind alert

Step dad, how?? Why and why didn't I know about him? Why is he not revealed.

"What maybe Mark, I told you to get proper information then why don't you find it properly. Are you taking my words lightly Mark." I whispered slowly like questioning.

"No b-oss, I'll be trying to find out." He Sutter

"No No not trying, you have to, if you are not then.. and you are well aware of what I am saying."

I cut the call without hearing further

I set the glass down, focus laser-sharp.

"Even if your dad is responsible for this jaana, his is going to live the most horrible life. Ki wo bhikh mangega apni muth ki par maine use marane nahi dunga. Or jb wo mrega uski rooh kaap jayega dubara paida hone ke naam se." I smirk while taking a ship from my glass.

"Cheers for one more destruction"

"Haha...

Haha....

Haha....

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Sleep's tranquil embrace had cradled me, until the shadows of my past crept in, like dark whispers in the night. My childhood demons, thought to be long vanquished, resurrected themselves, their haunting presence suffocating. I tossed and turned, lost in a labyrinth of memories I'd rather forget.

"No...don't lock me in!" I pleaded, my voice trembling, as the nightmare's grip tightened. "Dad, please...don't beat me!" Desperation seeped into my tone, echoing the helplessness I'd felt as a child. The bed seemed to close in around me, a prison of my own making. "Nono...don't touch me like that! I'm not liking it!" Panic set in, my body convulsing in a futile attempt to escape.

Suddenly, my bedroom door burst open, and Trisha rushed in, concern etched on her face like a masterpiece of worry. "Cherry wake up! Oh my god,  baby what's wrong?" Her voice pierced the fog, but I struggled to surface, shackled by the nightmares.

Trisha's gentle shaking intensified, coaxing me back to reality. I jolted awake, gasping, as tears streamed down my face, mingling with sweat-drenched hair. My heart raced like a wild animal, refusing to be caged.

"Trisha..." I sobbed, crumbling into her arms, seeking solace in her warmth. My body shook, memories flooded back like a deluge. The horrors I endured at the hands of my stepfather – the cruelty, the beatings, the unwanted touches – all resurfaced.

"He...he used to lock me in, Trisha. Beat me. And let them Touch me..." I choked, voice cracking beneath the weight of remembrance. Trisha held me tight, whispering soothing words, a gentle breeze calming the tempest within.

"You're safe now, cherry. I'm here." Her promise wrapped around me like a shield, protecting me from the monsters of my past.

As I wept, Trisha's warmth seeped into my soul, and for the first time, I felt protected – shielded from the darkness that had haunted me for so long. My tears flowed unchecked, a catharsis, cleansing me of the pain.

"My childhood...was a nightmare," I confessed, the words spilling out like a confession. "His cruelty...it still haunts me." Trisha's grip tightened, a testament to her unwavering support.

"You're free, cherry. That monster can't hurt you now," she assured, her voice a beacon of hope.

In Trisha's arms, I found solace, a sanctuary from the horrors of my past.

Tears streamed down my face as I clung to Trisha, my soul keeper. Her warm embrace and soothing words calmed the storm within. She knew my past, every dark corner and painful memory. Trisha was the sole witness to my struggles, my confidante, my rock.

Her eyes, glossy with empathy, reflected my pain. She'd walked with me through the shadows, helping me conquer insecurities. I loved her most for that – for being my beacon when darkness engulfed me.

Trisha's silly jokes pierced my sorrow, coaxing a chuckle. "You're alive, and your hair still looks fabulous!" she quipped, grinning. Her humor was contagious, lifting my spirits.

As I smiled, Trisha seized the moment. "Time for food therapy!" She declared, already knowing my answer. Characteristic Trisha – decisive, caring and stubborn.

"Want something to eat?" she asked, feigning innocence.

I rolled my eyes, amused. "You'll do what you want anyway."

Trisha pretended to be offended, hand on heart. "You don't trust me?" Her dramatic flair ignited, and I giggled.

"Dramatic much?" I teased.

Trisha's mock-hurt expression deepened. "I'm deeply wounded, cherry."

I sighed, frustrated yet affectionate. "Go, bring whatever you want."

Trisha giggled, triumphant, and skipped away.

As I waited, memories flooded back. Trisha had been my sole support when no one else understood. She'd stood by me through:

- The nightmares and flashbacks

- The crippling self-doubt

- The struggle to reclaim my identity

Trisha saw beyond my scars, believing in me when I couldn't. Her unwavering faith had resurrected my strength.

Now, as I awaited her return, I realized Trisha's antics were more than just humor – they were a reminder: I wasn't alone.

Alone in my room, darkness closed in, and memories I'd fought to suppress resurfaced. Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as the trauma revisited me. A single drop rolled down my cheek, a testament to the pain still raw within.

My gaze drifted to the side table, where a framed photo of my beloved Papa smiled back. Not the man I'd called "Dad" – my stepfather, the monster who'd shattered my world. This was my real father, my hero, my protector.

I stared at Papa's warm smile, longing for his presence. "Why did you leave me, Papa?" I whispered, my voice cracking. "I needed you most. You were my superhero, my shield against the monsters."

Tears streamed down my face as I recalled that fateful night – the night my world crumbled. The night my stepfather's cruelty forever scarred me.

"Papa, why did you go?" I sobbed, despair overwhelming me. "I was just a child, innocent and scared. You left me with...him. The man who destroyed me, piece by piece."

Memories flooded back:

- The sound of Papa's laughter, now silenced

- The warmth of his hugs, replaced by my stepfather's cold grasp

- The comfort of his words, lost in the screams and tears

That night, my stepfather's brutality had shattered my trust, my sense of safety. I'd become a shadow of my former self, haunted by fears, crippled by insecurity.

I wept, my heart aching for Papa's guidance. "Why did you abandon your princess, Papa? I needed you to save me from those monsters."

In the silence, I heard only echoes of what could have been – a life free from pain, free from fear.

Trisha's words echoed in my mind: "You're strong, resilient and loved." But at this moment, I felt fragile, broken and forsaken.

Tears dried on my cheeks as memories of Papa, Mr. Nirvaan Oberoi, flooded my mind. My superhero, my guiding light. I smiled, recalling his kindness, his warmth.

Papa's company, Oberoi LTB, wasn't a conglomerate, but it provided livelihoods for countless families. His humility and generosity earned him love and respect from all.

I cherished memories of his gentle guidance, his unwavering support. Everyone admired Papa – his employees worshipped him, neighbors revered him and friends adored him.

My mother, Mrs. Meera Oberoi, was elegance personified. Her radiant smile lit rooms, and her compassion inspired awe. Together, they were a force of love and kindness.

Their relationship was a fairytale – a beautiful blend of laughter, understanding and devotion. No discord, no raised voices, only harmony.

I remembered:

- Family dinners, filled with laughter and stories

- Papa's bedtime tales, transporting me to magical worlds

- Mother's soothing lullabies, rocking me to sleep

Their love nurtured me, shaping my childhood. But fate snatched them away, leaving me with...

My thoughts darkened, recalling the stepfather who destroyed my haven. I pushed the memories aside, focusing on Papa's legacy.

"Papa, I'll make you proud," I whispered, determination burning within. "I'll rise above the pain, just as you taught me."

I smiled a little bit remembering my parents, they were the most romantic couple I ever seen, why not they had a love marriage even though both of them are college mates. Since their college they have been together.

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• • § • •

I still remember when they told me about their funny and romantic story Their story was the most cringe story I ever listened to. Why?? Because my handsome hunk papa behaves like a cringe guy I don't believe this, no chance then I saw with my eye his behaviour. Then after my thinking was like 'ye admi tho pura pagal hai apni aurat ke piche' that was so funny and still it is ' bus mere papa hi kahi kho chuke hai.'. .

I remember when my mom told me that my father was the happiest person on earth when I came into this world. His first word after seeing me was 'my universe ' it's like papa saw his whole universe in me. Mom also said that if is in his hand then he announced my birthday as a national holiday. Cringe na I know but my mama's man is like that.

Everything is fine my world is beautiful and best. I got everything I wanted but then a Strom came into our life and took my papa with him leaving me and my mom alone. I wish that Strom also takes me with him at least today I'm with my father. '"wo Mera haath, mera saath, meri duniya, hamesha ke liye chod ke chale gaye..'"

It was papa and mom's day before anniversary days. I was just 10 at that time.

"Papa are you planning to leave me here and take you lady with you."  Little ashika asked her papa while glaring at her mom who recently teased her that her papa would love her mom more and was gonna take her on a trip.

"Who said this princess." Her dad asked a little bit of shuttering because he is aware of her little boom anger.

"Mom said that you both are going to Boston leaving me and also said you love her more than me." She replied dramatically while bringing fake tears to her eyes.

Her dad glared at her mom and took Ashika in his arm and cradled her softly and said.

"No my universe, I love you the most and you know right that your mom is jealous of you. Because you are more beautiful than her." He  whispered in the last line making her giggle.

"I know very well what you just said to her Mr oberoi. No need to khusar phusar." Her mother Glared at her father.

"No meri jaana you are the beautiful that is why she is most beautiful." Her replied with his puppy eyes. She rolled her eyes only.

"Look sach samne aa gaya ki aapne kya kaha tha uski kaan me. Jai mujhe baat hi nahi karni hai. First you promised me to take Boston to celebrate our anniversary now denying." She said while pointing her finger towards his husband

"When I denied we are not going, of course we are but with Ashika also. Tumne janbujh ke na use sataya hai." He pulled her mother's cheeks playfully.

"Yaa right it's fun to see her annoyed face."

Here Ashika was looking at her parents being lovey dovey, she sighed in loudly and called her dad loudly.

"PAPA WILL YOU PLEASE CONSENTRATE ON ME". She screamed.

"Yes my universe, ok just chill before going bosten we both father and daughter are going on a date. We're gonna enjoy it." Her dad kissed her cheeks and she happily wiggled.

That day I was most happy that me and my dad were going on dad. We both were going to enjoy our time together. But before that I received the most thrilled news of my life........

"Ashika don't wanna go on a date" her mother called her daughter who is busy with his dog.

"Yes mom I'm going to get ready. And today I'm going to be like a princess." She replied excitedly.

"Han han kyu nahi apke king jo aa rahe hai aapko lene." Her mother replied sarcastically.

"Of course he is a king. Par mere king ko na kisi magic karne wali ladki ne apne jaal me fasa liye hai warne unhe bahut aachi queen jarur milti." She replied dramatically.

"Ha wo tho-- " her mom was going to support her but then she realised what she told her. "You Bart, ruk tu jara" he mom marches towards her before she catches Ashika being in her room.

"NO NEERVAN." her mother sought.

Ashika hurriedly comes and looks at her mom's num and emotionless body she is looking vulnerable. Ashika goes towards her mother and asks.

"Mom what happened why are you sitting like that." She asked but didn't get any answer she again tried to ask them suddenly her mom pulled her in her arm and started crying loudly. Ashika is tariffs while looking at her mother like that.

"Bacha you dad got in accident and he is no more." That's all she said....

And. My whole world scattered apart At that time I was numb, I don't know what is happening around me. My papa mere superhero left me. His body in front of me is covered with white clothes but becomes red due to his blood. Still I didn't go to look at him. It felt like he was not my father. I didn't have the courage to say good bye to him last time.

After Papa's passing, our world crumbled. Mama struggled to find footing, but for my sake, she donned a brave face. Her determination inspired me.

Before Papa's demise, Oberoi LTB thrived under his leadership. Now, Mama took the reins, guiding the company with grace and poise. Employees admired her resilience; operations ran smoothly.

However, tranquility was short-lived. Investors began withdrawing shares, mysterious and simultaneous. Mama was perplexed, sensing foul play.

The company teetered on collapse, losses mounting. That's when Mr. Abhishek Pathak appeared, like a savior. Papa's former secretary, known for his loyalty and expertise.

Mama trusted him implicitly, grateful for his timely intervention. He navigated the crisis, stabilizing Oberoi LTB. His influence calmed the storm.

But I sensed unease. Questions still swirled in my mind:

- Where was Mr. Pathak during Papa's final days?

- Why did he vanish for three months, only to reappear now?

- What secrets lay hidden behind his helpful facade?

Mama, though, saw only his kindness, overlooking her doubts. She welcomed him, unaware of the monster lurking beneath.

As I watched Mr. Pathak's calculated smiles, my instincts screamed warning. This man, with his polished demeanor, concealed truths.

Little did we know, our lives were about to take a drastic turn – a 360-degree plunge into darkness.

And now I know how much of a poisonous snake he is,   I don't have any proof of him till now but I know he is behind my father's death. And he's gonna pay for it.

Everything is going fine then, he started showing his true colour that mother fucker. He proposed to my mom but she denied. Then he approached my grandparents my dadu and nanu. And they make my mom agree for the sake of me and my papa company because I need a father that time. I chuckled at words father. Not their father they bring a monster in my life. I still remember how I fought with my mom because I don't want anyone to take my papa place.

I stormed into Mama's room, indignation burning within. "Mama, how could you? He can't replace Papa!"

Mama's eyes, still puffy from tears, met mine. "Ashika, beta, understand—"

"No! I won't understand!" I interrupted, crossing my arms. "Papa just left us, and you're already marrying someone else?"

Mama knelt beside me, gentle hands on my shoulders. "Ashika, Mr. Pathak is helping us. He cares for us."

"Care for us?" I scoffed. "He wants Papa's company! He wants to take Papa's place!"

Mama's expression softened. "Your Nanu and Dadu think this marriage will secure our future, Ashika. For you, for the company..."

I pulled away, anger and sadness swirling. "You're doing this for me? But I don't want him! I want Papa back!"

Tears pricked at the corners of Mama's eyes. "I know, beta. But life doesn't always give us what we want. We must adapt."

I glared, unsure why Mama couldn't see Mr. Pathak's true intentions.

Mama hugged me tightly. "Trust me, baby. I'm doing this for our family's well-being."

I pushed back, my voice cracking. "You're marrying him because of Nanu and Dadu. Not for me!"

Mama's whisper soothed my frustration. "For you, Ashika. Always for you."

Though unconvinced, I nestled into her warmth, seeking comfort.

I thought I'd misjudged Mr. Pathak. For a year, he acted like a caring father figure. I began to accept him, though Papa's memory remained sacred.

But everything shattered.

Mr. Pathak's demeanor changed overnight. He became a monster, unleashing cruelty upon me. Punishments for minor infractions, beatings behind Mama's back. I thought it was disciplined, like other dads.

Then Mama left for a business trip, entrusting me to his care.

The nightmare unfolded.

He locked me in the dark, creepy basement. Starved, beaten mercilessly, and confined. I begged, pleaded for release.

The next day, he opened the door, asking if I "enjoyed" the ordeal. I demanded answers. Why this brutality after a year of kindness?

His response chilled me: "Because of your Papa...if he hadn't, I wouldn't."

Confusion gripped me. What did Papa have to do with this?

Suddenly, two men appeared, their lustful eyes crawling over me. They touched me inappropriately, making my skin crawl. I shouted for Mr. Pathak stopped them, but he was distracted by a phone call.

"Get out, now!" he yelled at the men, as Mama's arrival loomed.

He rushed me to my room, covering me like I was sleeping. His eyes, once warm, now seemed sinister.

Terror gripped me. What had I endured? What lay ahead?

Mama's trust in Mr. Pathak blinded her to his true nature. I felt trapped, voiceless.

I yearned to expose Mr. Pathak's true nature, but Mama's blindness to his cruelty silenced me. No proof, no credibility. He masqueraded as a devoted father, fooling everyone.

Desperation drove me to plead for hostel accommodation, seeking escape from the torture. Mama hesitated, but eventually relented.

I never returned to that house, opting for occasional meetings with Mama at grandparents' or neutral locations.

As adulthood dawned, resolve hardened within me. Papa's demise wasn't an accident; it was murder. Mr. Pathak's cryptic phrase echoed: "If your father hadn't..."

Determination fueled my quest for truth. I contacted investigative agencies, seeking to reopen the case. However, the police deemed it a closed "hit-and-run" incident, refusing to reopen the investigation.

Undeterred, I vowed to unravel the mystery. The investigative department became my ally.

A burning promise to myself: I'll uncover the truth, no matter the cost. Those responsible will face justice – my justice. Mr. Pathak's sinister role will be exposed.

With every passing day, resolve strengthened. I'll confront the monster, and with my own hands, ensure he pays for his crimes.

The past still haunts me, but I won't be silenced. Justice will be mine.

• • § • •

I was in my thoughts of the past, the door clicked and opened, and there she is..

Trisha returned with a tray laden with chicken chili and soup. "Your favorite – to heal your body and soul." Her thoughtfulness touched my heart.

As we ate, Trisha regaled me with silly stories, making me giggle. "Remember when we accidentally superglued our shoes together?" she asked, convulsing in laughter.

I guffawed, tears streaming down my face. "You were stuck on the floor for an hour!" Our shared laughter created a beautiful symphony.

"Well, when did you come here?" I asked her because her sudden presence.

"Ohh Aarohi informed me about your condition, and fortunately I guess it right that what causes you. So I'm here for you." She replied, such a sweetheart she knows me well.

"You're my sunshine, Trisha," I said, heartfelt. Her presence illuminated my world.

"Aww, cherry you're my rainbow – colorful, vibrant and occasionally stormy," Trisha replied, her voice filled with emotion. Our bond transcended words.

In this moment, life's darkness receded, replaced by Trisha's radiant presence. I felt seen, heard and loved.

Dramatic Flair:

As we finished eating, Trisha grasped my hands, her eyes locked intensely on mine. "Ashika, promise me – no matter what, you'll never let your past define you. You're strong, resilient and loved."

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. "I promise, Trisha." The weight of her words settled within me.

With a gentle smile, she pulled me into a tight hug. "You're free, love. And I'll always be here to remind you." Her promise wrapped around me like a shield.

In Trisha's arms, I found solace – a sanctuary from life's turmoil. Our friendship was my anchor, holding me fast against the tempests.

I snuggled under the blankets, Trisha's warmth lingering from our goodbye. Her comforting words still echoed: "Sleep tight, Cherry. You're safe."

Just as I drifted off, my phone pierced the silence. Mr. Randhawa's name flashed on the screen. My heart skipped a beat. Today's events flooded back – that kiss, that hunting memories, the emotions.

I flinched, hesitant to answer. The pain still felt raw. I didn't want to relive it, I didn't want to talk to him. Not yet.

The phone rang on, insistent. I counted the rings – one, two, three, four, five. With a sigh, I silenced my phone, shutting out the world.

For now, I pushed the questions aside, seeking refuge in sleep.

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To be continued...

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Kaisa laga ye jarur bataye..

Kya Ashika ke atit me dard tha???

Trisha or cherry ki friendship achi hai na..