Chapter 26 | Kidnapped

Chali jaye kahi bhi tu agar

Khabar hoti  hai teri, ise rooh ko magar

Pehchan leta hai teri aahet ko bhi

Kya karegi tu  ise jism ko tu durr

•❅──────✧❅✦❅✧──────❅•

As I gazed at Jaana through the camera, her tears shattered my defenses. Trisha's comforting embrace ignited a longing within me. Why couldn't I be the one soothing her pain? Jealousy and yearning entwined, piercing my soul.

At that moment, I realized my feelings for her transcended protection and obsession. I loved her - fiercely, desperately and unconditionally. Her vulnerability drew me in, exposing my own fragility.

When Trisha departed, leaving Angel alone, I seized the opportunity. My trembling fingers dialed her number. Each unanswered ring amplified my anguish. Repeated calls, ignored. My anger surged, tempered by despair.

Shattering objects, shouting into the void, I confronted my helplessness. Then, my eyes met Ashika's portrait. I approached, entranced.

"Sweetheart, my love," I whispered, my voice trembling. "Why ignore me? Don't you know I'm trying to shield you?"

Her portrait seemed to radiate calm, fueling my desperation.

"Answer me," I pleaded. "What have I done wrong? Is it today's revelation? My clumsy attempt

Tears pricked at my eyes.

"Forgive me for stirring your pain. I never intended to rip open old wounds."

My words spilled forth, a mix of anguish and devotion.

"Your silence suffocates me. Show me you're alive, that you feel something."

I paused, studying her serene face.

"Do you recall our moments together? The spark in your eyes when I'm near?"

Memories flooded my mind.

"I adore your strength, sweetheart. Your resilience in the face of adversity."

My whisper softened.

"I love you - more than life, more than breath. You're my reason for being."

In that vulnerable moment, I surrendered to my emotions.

A sly smile spread across my face as I gazed at Ashika's portrait.

"Ah, Jaana, Jaana, my enchanted beauty," I chuckled, my voice dripping with maniacal amusement. "You think ignoring me will stop me? Foolish, beautiful girl."

I leaned in, my eyes locking onto hers.

"Your silence fuels my determination. Each unanswered call, each ignored message - every rejection ignites my passion."

My laughter echoed, low and menacing.

"You can't escape me, jaana. I'm always watching, always waiting."

I caressed her portrait, my touch tender yet possessive.

"I know your every move, every thought. Your attempts to hide only thrill me."

Whispering, my breath danced across the frame.

"I'll never release you from my grasp. You're mine, love- body, soul and heart."

My manic energy surged.

"Run, sweetheart, run. But I'll always find you."

I stepped back, admiring her serene face.

"You've awakened the beast within me. Now, no force can tame it."

My voice dropped to a menacing whisper.

"I'll claim you, my Angel. Completely. Irrevocably." Resistance will only sweeten victory.

"My love, you're ensnared. Forever." I was busy talking with my angel, here my phone rings, ahh who dared to disturb us. I take my phone and look at its Mark. He must have found something. "Sweetheart I'm sorry just give me a sec haa it's important." I murmured to her paintings.

"Speak," I growled, answering Mark's call. My gaze lingered on my Angel portrait, fueling my determination.

"Sir, Mr. Pathak is the root of Queen torment," Mark revealed, voice trembling. "He orchestrated her father's demise and subjected her to cruelty. Initially, he pretended affection, but his demeanor darkened, unleashing hell upon her. Pathak blamed Queen father for his own depraved actions." Each word ignited my fury.

"Why disclose this now, Mark?" I demanded an icy calculation etched in every syllable. My mind raced with implications.

"Uncertain, sir," Mark hedged. "Seems classified. But I sensed urgency in the informant's voice." His hesitation only heightened my resolve.

"Uncover the truth. Now," I commanded, deadly determination fueling my words. The line went dead.

A malevolent grin twisted my lips as I contemplated Pathak's impending doom. Ashika's pain would soon be avenged - deliciously. My thoughts unfolded like a dark requiem: Pathak's reckoning, Ashika's liberation and leverage - his secrets, now my deadly ammunition.

This revelation ignited unyielding resolve within me. Protecting Ashika required annihilating Pathak. Morality was irrelevant; only her well-being mattered.

Cutting the call, turmoil engulfed me. Thoughts swirled: Pathak's cruelty, Ashika anguish and Mark's revelation. My mind reeled, connecting dots. I struggled to shake off the consuming darkness, seeking refuge in slumber. Pills scattered on my nightstand promised fleeting calm, but my thoughts defied sedation.

My sweet heart silence gnawed at me like an open wound. Her indifference fueled an unrelenting fire. Restlessness gripped me, refusing release. "Enough," I growled, resolve hardened. Time lost meaning; only my love mattered.

Midnight's shadows didn't deter me. I seized my car keys, speeding toward her apartment. The city's darkness mirrored my soul. Arriving, logic yielded to instinct. Trisha's presence inside stayed my hand from the door. Instead, I sought the balcony, bypassing boundaries.

Her window slid open silently. I stepped into her sanctuary, calm washing over me. My angel peaceful slumber is captivated. Serenity radiated from her tranquil form.

I settled beside her, fingers tracing her silky hair. A gentle smile curved her lips, echoing mine. "Jaana, my baby" I whispered, entranced.

My gaze devoured her beauty, innocence and vulnerability. In this stolen moment, chaos receded. Only my love existed. My heart synchronized with hers, beating solely for her.

Gazing intensely at my angel serene face, my thoughts spilled forth in urgent whispers.

"Why ignore me, my enchanting love?" I pleaded, voice trembling with longing. "Why silence my impassioned calls? Don't you know each neglected ring sears my soul?"

Fingers tenderly caressing her hair, possessiveness stirred.

"You're irretrievably mine, Jaana - body, soul and heart. Forever is bound to me."

Softly, I implored, "Answer my calls, beloved. Ease this relentless torment. Your indifference ravages me."

Eyes burning with unyielding intensity.

"You'll never evade me, love. I'll always find, protect you, cherish you. And possesses you

With reverent fingers, I traced her lips.

"Your radiant smiles illuminate my existence. Your melodic laughter soothes my darkness."

Voice barely audible.

"Your pain pierces my heart; your joy elevates my ecstasy. Together, our love transcends turmoil."

In shadows, devotion transformed into unwavering possession.

"Inseparable from me, love. My forever. My everything."

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Morning's golden light crept through the curtains, gently rousing me. Yesterday's turmoil resurfaced, but I shook off lingering thoughts. Inhaling deeply, calmness enveloped me.

Familiar scent wafted up, halting my serenity - Randhawa's distinctive cologne. My mind jerked to attention.

"How is this possible?" I pondered. "Did he secretly visit?"

Dismissing the impossible thought, I reached for my phone. Shock gripped me. 100 calls and 109 messages from Mr Randhawa stared back.

" Phycho, This man is relentless," I gasped. "Who calls with such intensity?"

Frustration mounted. I dropped my phone, seeking solace in morning coffee. Brewing sounds soothed frazzled nerves.

The doorbell pierced the calm. Early visitors were rare. Curiosity piqued, I approached cautiously.

Opening the door revealed a majestic white rose on my threshold. Surprise and wonder filled me.

"Who could leave this?" I scanned empty hallways.

No one.

I picked up the rose; its fragrance danced up my nostrils. A smile spread.

A majestic white rose lay waiting, its beauty unmistakable. Accompanying it, a note:

"Forgotten moments linger, haunting memories.

My actions, driven by your protection.

Regretting turmoil caused.

- sorry"

Simple, heartfelt words conveyed remorse and resolve.

But there is no name, who would be the. Sorry words hit me hard, is Mr Randhawa. Yes he is...

"Mr Randhawa, mysterious and unnerving," I whispered.

I'm in my thoughts of Mr Randhawa, what he did and what happened between us and then this. He apologized, my mind is totally messed up "Ahh subh subh bhi main santh nahi reh sakte, kya bhagwan ji meri smile achi nahi hai kya. Wait smile tho achi hai bahut achi hai. Saare log fidaa hai ise smile pe meri."

Suddenly Trisha burst into my cozy morning, radiating warmth.

"Good morning, cherry!" she exclaimed, beaming.

I smiled, cradling my coffee. "Morning, Trisha."

"Sleep well, beauty?" she asked, settling beside me.

Our easy chatter flowed. Trisha's gaze suddenly landed on the white rose.

"Stunning! Who sent this?" she asked, curiosity sparkling.

I teased, "Dramatic much?"

Trisha dramatized, eyes wide. "Maybe my secret lover? Oh my god! Someone has also started following me, finally."

Oh God this girl and her fantasies world.

" sorry to burst your khwab ke bubbles. This is sent by that devil. I, revealing the truth. "Aahan Singh Randhawa sent it."

Trisha froze, statue-still, her theatrics halted. Her eyes rolled heavenward.

I joked, "From drama to stunned silence."

Trisha's curiosity surged. "Why? How? What possessed him? What's behind this gesture?"

I shared Mr  Randhawa's behaviour but not that recklessly kiss, of course I can't share that with her she is my wonder woman if she gets to know about that then she's gonna break his nose for sure. I doubt after seeing her behaviour but still I believe in it, maybe yaa hehe. "Forgotten moments linger... Regretting turmoil caused."

Trisha's eyes widened. "Intense! Passionate or psycho?"

I shrugged. "Both? His actions blur the lines."

Trisha mimicked Randhawa's deep voice. "My sweetheart, my love, my obsession..."

my heart skipped a bit when she said like that it is something that I don't want to happen, it's simple thought to send shivers down to my spine. It is intoxicating and additive. His each and every action and word Is venom which has to stop. I faked laughing and tossing a pillow. "Stop! Your impressions kill me."

Our playful banter filled the room.

Trisha's vivacity and protectiveness wrapped around me, comforting.

"Be cautious, Ashika," she cautioned. "Randhawa's intensity unnerves."

I nodded thoughtfully.

Finishing my coffee, I stood up, ready to face the day's hospital responsibilities.

"Time to get ready for the hospital," I informed Trisha, trying to sound reassuring.

Trisha's expression transformed into concern. "Cherry, your health isn't okay. You should rest today."

I calmed her worries with a gentle smile. "I'm perfectly fine, Trisha. Just tired. I need to shake it off."

Trisha's skepticism lingered, but I began preparing, determined to maintain normalcy.

Upon arriving at the hospital, exhaustion enveloped me like a shroud. Each step to my cabin felt heavy.

"Something feels off," my mind whispered, heart racing anxiously. "Like impending doom lurking in the shadows."

Apprehension gripped me. Unsettling foreboding wrapped around my thoughts.

My phone shattered the uneasy calm - Mr Randhawa's call, again.

Frustration and desperation surged. "Not now, please."

I switched off my phone, craving solitude and escaping from emotional turmoil.

"Peace," I whispered to myself.

Seeking refuge, I closed my eyes, reclining in my chair, letting relaxation seep into tense muscles.

Calmness gradually replaced unease.

Serene calm enveloped me, shattered by my cabin door bursting open. Intrusion ignited ire, my mind racing with indignation.

"Who dares disturb my sanctuary?" I fumed inwardly, who the fuck is this. They bargained in my cabin like they are the owner of this place seriously, koi samjha wo I owned this fucking place. My eyes snapping open.

Rishi Mehra's mischievous grin greeted me, labeled "Cockroach Rishi" ahh I can't deal with him now , what does he want? He looked at me and smiled Oh God his mysterious smile pakka ise kuch chahiye. I can't even give him gaali straight to his face because he is Mr Mehra's son and also my so-called friends. Hye bhagwan meri zindagi me hi yese namune kyu bhejne the. I thoughts.

"What now?" I silently lamented.

Rishi's gaze locked onto mine, flashing his signature mysterious smile.

"Rose, where are you lost?" As he asked he doesn't know I mentally rolled my eyes, oblivious to my irritation.

"Aapke hi baare me soch rahi thi " I retorted sarcastically, masking annoyance. Bura bura soch rahi thi maadarch-- chodo yaar.

Rishi smiles, seriously bro

"what brings you here?" I asked, curiosity seeping.

Rishi's smile transformed into a shy, blushing bride-like grin. Oh fuck why he is blushing like a newly wedded bride. Cockroach Rishi.

"Want to take you out today," he stammered, stirring awkwardness.

I raised an eyebrow. "You can't be serious. Leave me alone."

Undeterred, Rishi persisted. "Lunch, movies or games - your pick. Break the monotony."

I scoffed. "No. Focus on your surgery, not me."

Rishi teased, "Surgery can wait. Your smile can't. It's hidden, and I'm the treasure hunter."

I rolled my eyes. " Dr Rishi if you are forgetting something then let me remind you. You are a doctor and surgery is your first priority. And Cheesy lines won't work, Dr Rishi."

Rishi continued, relentlessly. "One day, no commitments. Friends, remember? My dad's new car - sleek, isn't it?"

"Your dad's wealth isn't enticing me," I countered.

"Then my exceptional driving skills?" he teased.

"Dangerous, not exceptional," I shot back.

Rishi grinned. "Fine, I'll walk. No escape, Rose."

His charm slowly chipped at my resolve.

"Okay, lunch only," I conceded.

Rishi beamed triumphantly. "Rose, you won't regret this."

I doubted that, but a spark of curiosity flickered.

Rishi's firm grip propelled me toward his car, his playful yet stubborn nature on full display. The nickname "Cockroach Rishi" echoed in my mind, symbolizing our intricate friendship.

Resigned, I slid into the passenger seat. Rishi drove, sensing my tension. His silly jokes broke the silence.

"Why did the tomato turn red?" he asked, grinning mischievously.

"I don't know," I replied, curiosity piqued.

"Because it saw the salad dressing!" Rishi chuckled, pleased with himself.

My eye-roll belied a budding smile. Irritation softened.

"Where are we headed?" I asked.

"Surprise," Rishi teased, sparkling eyes hinting at excitement.

Internally, I groaned. And mentally rolled my eyes His surprises often fizzled, ruined by premature revelations. His surprise rarely succeeded, often ruined by his own eagerness.

The car halted in a jungle-like clearing. I hesitated wondering, kya yee triger or lion ke sath dinner karwane wala hai. Apprehension replaced curiosity.

"Where are we?" I ventured.

Rishi's enigmatic "Follow me" sparked unease.

Trailing him, the lush surroundings transformed. A breathtaking waterfall materialized - our former hideaway. Memories surged: laughter, skipped classes and Aarohi.

A smile spread, nostalgia warming my heart.

"How did you find this?" I asked.

"Remembering our escapes," Rishi said.

We settled on a weathered bench, conversation flowing.

"Recall skipping class?" Rishi asked.

"Endless memories," I replied.

"Our carefree days," he sighed wistfully.

As we savored snacks, laughter echoed.

"Relaxed now?" Rishi queried.

My annoyance dissolved. "You surprised me, Dr Rishi."

As I know he also ruined surprise but this is the best for relaxation because it is always my peace site me and Aarohi often came to this place. And Dr Rishi sometimes also, well he is our senior so he can't tail around us often.

As our leisurely escape concluded, reality beckoned, reminding me of hospital responsibilities. "Rishi, we must head to the hospital. Duty calls."

Settling into his car, we prepared to depart. Rishi's phone suddenly pierced the air, its ringtone shattering serenity. He answered, toned grave, sparking curiosity.

"I'll be there in a minute," he assured the caller, concerned about etching his face.

"Emergency at the hospital. We must go now," he informed me, urgency in his voice.

I nodded resolutely. "Let's go."

En route, a crucial realization struck me. "Rishi, stop the car! I need something urgently."

Rishi's brow furrowed. "What's so crucial? We can't delay."

"I must get it. I'll meet you at the hospital," I reassured, conviction in my tone.

Rishi hesitated, reluctance written across his face. "I can't leave you alone."

I calmed his worries. "I'll be fine. Go, attend the emergency. I'll join you shortly."

Rishi yielded, halting the car. "Hurry, I'll be worried."

"I will. Thanks, Rishi," I said, exiting swiftly.

Watching Rishi speed away, my thoughts whirled. Apprehension mingled with determination.

I stepped into Wellington's crisp, afternoon air, hastening toward the store for the essential item. The sun cast long shadows, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers. Suddenly, an unsettling unease crept over me.

I felt watched, my skin prickling. Glancing over my shoulder, a stranger's intense gaze locked onto mine. His eyes lingered, sending shivers down my spine. Fear's icy grip tightened.

My heart quickened, pounding in my chest. Rational thoughts fled as instinct screamed danger. I sped up, feet pounding the pavement.

Every snap of a twig or rustle of leaves made me flinch. Fear clawed at my rationality, whispering menacing possibilities. "Stay calm," I urged internally, but anxiety intensified.

The stranger's footsteps echoed mine, synchronizing our pace. Sweat beaded on my forehead; my breath caught. I crossed the street, seeking safety among pedestrians.

Footsteps persisted, relentless. Panic gripped me. I hastened, scanning for refuge. A nearby café beckoned.

Before I reached it, a searing sting pierced my neck, like a needle injecting icy venom. Vision blurred; darkness engulfed me. Legs buckled.

Thoughts fragmented: "Rishi...hospital...emergency...can't pass out."

Blackness consumed all, extinguishing consciousness.

Regaining consciousness, agony ravaged my body. Every limb throbbed, as if brutally beaten. Groggily, I assessed my predicament. Rope-bound wrists and ankles immobilized me. A blindfold obscured my vision, amplifying vulnerability.

Memories of kidnapping and torture three years ago flooded back. The same suffocating fear, helplessness and despair engulfed me. Panic set in, accelerating my heartbeat.

"No, not again!" my mind screamed, desperation clawing at rational thought.

A footstep echoed, amplifying terror. The deep, menacing voice spoke, its sinister tone sending shivers. "Long time, escaped bird ish... You just escape that time not only you but also take many little birds with you. It's not fair. But now luck is in my favour, I Didn't' expect following that bastard would lead me to you. I'm honest with you okk I seriously didn't behind you this time, this time I only want that basterd but see what I get in bonus. "It's you" - the reason for my downfall." Wo kehte hai naa ek tir se do Sikar.

His creeping mimicry of laughter sent icy dread through my veins. A chilling, mirthless sound, devoid of humanity.

Rough fingers grasped my cheeks, his breath reeking of malevolence. "You and he won't escape now."

Recognition struck, numbing my body. That unmistakable voice resurrected horrors.

Three years of trauma, erased progress and shattered hope.

My thoughts spiralled: "Trapped, again. Torture, darkness, despair."

Fear propelled me into frantic panic. I struggled against restraints, adrenaline surging.

My mind is racing: "Escape, flee, survive. Aahan, find me. Someone, save me."

"Aahan. Why? My heart screamed his name , I felt like he was gonna save me, but why only him. I don't know the answer right now but I know only one thing maybe just maybe he is the only one who's gonna save me from this monster. Please Aahan, find me, save me.

That was the last thought, then darkness consumed me.

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────........

🥀

ׂ╰┈➤

To be continued...

•. dont forget to vote and comment on my story if you like it..

Want to keep appreciating my work. it encourages me.

Love you all❣️

***********************************************

•. Who kidnapped her??

•.  What was the mystery of 3 years ago ??