"13. Royalty in Shadows"

"Itni masoom hai ki

Seene se lagane ka jee karta hai

Itni niswarth hai ki

Uske liye swarthi banne ka jee karta hai"

-Fictionflare_

"Swagat nahi karoge humara"

(Won’t you welcome me?)

A voice echoed from behind, breaking the calm at the table. Rudraksh and Ruhanika turned their heads in unison, while Rishwik, seated opposite Ruhanika, merely tilted his head with mild curiosity. Rudraksh immediately rolled his eyes, clearly annoyed as he recognized the source—Ashvik, standing there with a few shopping bags in hand and wearing his trademark grin. Meanwhile, Ruhanika took one look at Ashvik and promptly turned her attention back to Rudraksh, not bothering to acknowledge him any further. Even Rishwik, who had briefly glanced over, resumed his meal, unfazed by the interruption. Ashvik frowned, feeling a bit annoyed that no one was giving him any attention. Despite his attempts to get noticed, his brothers and Ruhanika seemed uninterested, leaving him standing there, feeling ignored and unimportant.

Ashvik: "Hadd hoti hai batameezi ki bhi, sare pagal hai yaha, Ye Malhotra surname ka hi issue hai tabhi teddy bhi aisi ho gayi, huhhh."

(This is the limit of rudeness! Everyone here is crazy. It must be a problem with the Malhotra surname, that's why even Teddy turned out like this. Huh!)

Ashvik huffed in frustration and walked over to them. Without saying a word, he dropped two or three shopping bags onto Ruhanika’s lap. Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Ruhanika all looked at him with confused expressions, unsure of what he was doing. Ashvik stood there with his usual grin, clearly enjoying their puzzled reactions.

Rudraksh: "Subah subah kya hai ye??"

(What’s all this early in the morning?)

Ashvik: "Tere liye nahi hai toh tu chup kar."

(It’s not for you, so stay quiet.)

Rudraksh shot Ashvik an intense glare, his eyes narrowing in irritation. It was clear from Rudraksh’s expression that he wasn’t in the mood for Ashvik’s antics. Ashvik, however, seemed unfazed, still grinning as if nothing had happened.

Rishwik: "Par ye hai kya Ashvik Bhai?? Aur aap Angel ko kyu de rahe ho???"

(But what is this, Ashvik Bhai? And why are you giving it to Angel?)

Ashvik: "Kyuki ye teddy ke liye hi hai."

(Because it's for Teddy.)

Ruhanika: "Humare liya?? Par humne toh kuch nahi manga aapse inke dost."

(For me? But I didn't ask you for anything, his friend.)

Ashvik chuckled softly at Ruhanika's endearment for him and reached over to pat her gently on the head.

Ashvik: "Tumne manga nahi hai, par main le aaya. Kuch kapde hai tumhare liye, akhir kab tak is giant ke kapdo me ghumti rahogi tum??"

(You didn’t ask, but I brought it anyway. Some clothes for you. After all, how long are you going to keep wandering around in this giant’s clothes?)

Rudraksh: "Aur akhir kab tak mere ghar me ghumta rahega tu??? Permanent solution nikalu kuch??"

(And how long will you keep wandering around my house? Should I come up with a permanent solution?)

Ashvik made a few playful faces, then sauntered over to sit beside Rishwik. Ruhanika, her dimples shining brightly, gave Ashvik a warm smile in acknowledgment of his gesture. Ashvik's smile widened in response, mirroring her joy. Meanwhile, Rudraksh's gaze lingered on Ruhanika, a hint of jealousy flickering in his eyes as he watched her smile so effortlessly at Ashvik.

Rudraksh: "Ahhh Yellow ab dekho toh kya leke aaya hai ye gadha."

(Ahh, Yellow, look at what this idiot has brought.)

Ashvik: "Jo bhi hai tujhse behtar hai."

(Whatever it is, it’s better than you.)

Ashvik gave Rishwik a high five, and the two of them shared a chuckle.Ruhanika, however, was focused on the shopping bags Ashvik had brought. As she pulled out the clothes one by one, her face scrunched up in various expressions of dismay and confusion. The items did not seem to meet her expectations. Ashvik watched her with growing curiosity, while Rudraksh, observing the scene, couldn't help but smirk at her reaction.

Ashvik: "Kya hua teddy pasand nahi aaye??"

(What’s wrong, Teddy? Don’t you like it?)

Ruhanika: "Inke dost, ye aap kya laaye hai??"

(Your friend, what have you brought?)

Ashvik: "Tumhare liye kapde aur kya??"

(Clothes for you. What else?)

Ruhanika: "Par aadhe adhure kapde kyu???"

(But why are they incomplete?)

Rishwik: "Angel aadhe adhure matlab?? Ashvik bhai ne toh vaise hi pehli baar dhang ka kaam kiya hai. "

(Angel, incomplete? Ashvik Bhai did something right for the first time.)

Ashvik playfully smacked Rishwik on the arm, causing Rishwik to chuckle.

Ruhanika: "Haa toh aadhe adhure hi toh hai, ye dekhiye iske baahe kaha hai??"

(Yes, but they’re still incomplete. Look, where are the sleeves?)

Ashvik's mouth fell open in surprise as Ruhanika asked for sleeves on a sleeveless dress. Rudraksh, who was aware of her preferences from her previous night's comments about his clothes, couldn't help but smirk at Ashvik's bewildered expression.

Ruhanika: "Aur ye iske neeche ka kaha hai??"

(And where is the bottom part?)

Ashvik’s shock deepened when Ruhanika asked for a lower to go with a one-piece dress. His eyes widened as he stared at her, utterly flabbergasted by her request. Meanwhile, Rudraksh's smirk grew, finding amusement in Ashvik's escalating confusion.

Ruhanika: "Aur ye dekhiye isme dupatta hi nahi hai. Maaf kijiye par aapko pagal banaya kisi ne, kapde aise nahi hote."

(And look, there’s no scarf either. Sorry, but someone fooled you. This is not how clothes are supposed to be.)

Rishwik couldn’t contain himself any longer and burst into hearty laughter, his amusement evident as he clutched his stomach. Rudraksh, on the other hand, just smirked, enjoying his breakfast with a sense of satisfaction. Ashvik remained in a state of shock, still trying to process Ruhanika's unexpected request and the unfolding situation.

Rishwik: "Kya Ashvik bhai, aapko kapde tak lene nahi aata?? Aur nahi aata toh kyu mehnat karke aaye ho??"

(What, Ashvik Bhai? You don’t even know how to buy clothes? And if you didn’t know, why did you go through all the trouble?)

Ruhanika: "Inke bhai, aap hasiye mat inke dost pe, ye toh humare liye soch kar laaye, par shayad ye bahaut bhole hai isiliye inhe pata nahi chala."

(His brother, don’t laugh at his friend. At least he thought of bringing something for me, but maybe he’s just too innocent to know.)

Rishwik’s laughter grew uncontrollable, his face red as he laughed heartily because the epitome of innocence was addressing Ashvik as innocent one. Rudraksh, unable to contain his amusement, struggled to suppress his own laughter, his shoulders shaking slightly. Meanwhile, Ashvik was still in a state of shock, trying to comprehend the situation and what had just transpired.

Rishwik: "Haa Angel, Ashvik bhai sach me bhole hai bahaut, Kyu bhai??"

(Yeah, Angel, Ashvik Bhai is really innocent, right Bhai?)

Rudraksh nodded, acknowledging the situation, while Ashvik shot a glare at both him and Rishwik, clearly annoyed by their reactions.

Ashvik: "Thik hai thik hai, itna bhi hasne ki baat nahi hai."

(Alright, alright. It’s not that funny.)

Rishwik: "Haa itna nahi bahaut hasne ki baat hai bhole Bhai."

(No, it’s very funny, Mr. Innocent.)

Ashvik: "Pitna nahi chahta toh muh band rakh le."

(If you don’t want to get hit, keep your mouth shut.)

Rishwik rolled his eyes, clearly unbothered by Ashvik’s glare.

Rudraksh: "Tum kya un dono ko dekh rahi ho?? ye juice piye jaldi se."

(What are you looking at them for? Drink your juice quickly.)

Ruhanika nodded in acknowledgment and took a sip of the juice, sipping quietly as she observed the playful interaction between the others.

Rishwik: "Someone is too caring."

Rishwik received a stern, almost threatening glare from Rudraksh, making him shift uncomfortably. Meanwhile, Ruhanika looked between the three men with a mix of curiosity and confusion, trying to make sense of the tension and banter around her.

Rudraksh: "Zyada muh nahi chal raha tera??"

(Isn’t your mouth running a bit too much?)

Rishwik: "Haa, muh hi chala sakta hu, kyuki hasne ka copyright aapke pass hai na, vo bhi Angel ke sath."

(Yeah, all I can do is talk since you have the exclusive rights to laughing with Angel.)

Rishwik and Ashvik both chuckled, clearly enjoying the light-hearted moment, while Rudraksh fought to suppress his irritation. He wanted to give these two spoiled brats a piece of his mind but restrained himself, knowing he needed to keep his cool for Ruhanika's sake.

Ashvik: "Aaj zyada hi pareshan nahi kar raha tu Rudraksh ko??"

(Aren’t you bothering Rudraksh a bit too much today?)

Ashvik leaned closer to Rishwik and whispered.

Rishwik: "practice kar raha hu."

(I’m practicing.)

Ashvik: "Kis cheez ki??"

(Practicing what?)

Rishwik: "Bhai ka gussa sehne ki."

(Practicing to endure my brother’s anger.)

Ashvik: "Kyu??"

(Why?)

Rishwik: "Jo harkat maine ki hai 7-8 din baad bhai vaise bhi mujhe ghar se nikal denge."

(Because after what I did, in 7-8 days, Bhai will kick me out of the house anyway.)

Both Rishwik and Ashvik were engaged in hushed whispers as they enjoyed their breakfast. Ashvik glanced over at Rishwik, who responded with a sheepish smile. Seeing Rishwik’s reaction, Ashvik’s eyes widened in surprise, clearly intrigued by whatever secret they were sharing.

Ashvik: "Kya tune...??"

(Did you..?)

Rishwik nodded in agreement.

Ashvik: "Ek kaam kar, ye practice band kar aur jaake apna boriya bistar bandh ke, kyuki Rudraksh tujhe dhakke nahi laat maar ke ghar se nikalega."

(Here’s what you should do. Stop practicing and pack your stuff because Rudraksh won’t just throw you out, he’ll throw you out with a kick.)

Rishwik: "Janta hu, isiliye planning kar li hai."

(I know, that’s why I’ve made a plan.)

Ashvik: "Matlab??"

(What plan?)

Rishwik: "yaha se nikal ke aapke ghar hi rukne wala hu main, vaise bhi naam ka ghar hai rehte toh aap yahi ho."

(After getting kicked out of here, I’m planning to stay at your place. After all, it’s just a house in name since you’re always here anyway.)

Ashvik: "Sochna bhi mat."

(Don’t even think about it.)

Rishwik: "Uske baare me Bhai ko bata du kya??"

(Should I tell Bhai about that?)

Ashvik: "Kitna gira hua insaan hai tu."

(You are such a low-life.)

Rishwik: "Paidaishi, aur ab chup chaap se apna ghar de dena mujhe, main kehta hu mere naam hi kar do badle me mere hisse ki properties lelo. Main mast aapke ghar me rahunga ek kamre me, baaki ke kamre rent pe de dunga thoda guzara ho jayega Mera. Aur aapko thodi daya aaye toh mere bank account me 100-200 crore transfer kar dena per month, bas mera kaam chal jayega."

(Born that way. Now, just hand over your house to me quietly. I’m telling you, transfer it to my name and in return, take my share of the properties. I’ll happily live in one room of your house and rent out the other rooms to make ends meet. If you feel a little generous, deposit 100-200 crore in my bank account monthly, and that will be enough for me.)

Ashvik: "Sahi kehta hai Rudraksh, hazaar shaitan mare honge tab tu paida hua hoga."

(Rudraksh is right. A thousand demons must have died for you to be born.)

Rishwik: "Bhai yaar sharam aati hai, main itna bhi khaas nahi."

(Bhai, please! Don’t embarrass me. I’m not that special.)

Ashvik rolled his eyes with irritation, while Rishwik put on an exaggeratedly shy expression, pretending to look bashful.

Rudraksh: "Agar important deal crack ho gayi ho, toh office ke liye niklo dono."

(If your important deal is done, then both of you get going to the office.)

Ashvik: "Aur tu??"

(And you?)

Rudraksh: "Ruh ko akele nahi Chod sakta."

(I can’t leave Ruh alone.)

Rudraksh spoke as he wiped his lips with a tissue, then reached over to gently wipe Ruhanika's lips as well.

Rishwik: "Ohhhhhh"

Rudraksh gave Rishwik a sharp look, his silence conveying a mixture of irritation and warning. The unspoken message was clear: he was not pleased with Rishwik's antics and expected him to behave more considerately.

Ruhanika: "Aap aapke kaam pe ja sakte hai. Kahi aapke boss naraz na ho jaye. Hum nahi chahte aapko daant pade. Hum reh lenge akele."

(You can go to work. I don’t want your boss to get upset. I don’t want you to get scolded. I’ll manage on my own.)

Rudraksh smiled warmly at Ruhanika’s concern and gently patted her cheeks. His gesture was full of affection and appreciation. Meanwhile, Rishwik and Ashvik exchanged amused glances, their chuckles barely contained as they enjoyed the innocent questions of Ruhanika.

Rudraksh: "Tum chinta mat karo, kuch nahi hoga."

(Don’t worry, nothing will happen.)

Ruhanika: "Aap dono ne kaha tha aap humpe nahi hasenge."

(You two promised not to laugh at me.)

Ruhanika spoke softly and lowered her head, her modesty and humility evident. Ashvik and Rishwik exchanged warm smiles, touched by her genuine demeanor and endearing nature.

Rishwik: "Sorry Angel, par tum janti nahi bhai ka koi boss nahi hai."

(Sorry, Angel, but you don’t know, Bhai doesn’t have a boss.)

Ruhanika glanced at Ashvik and Rishwik, her expression full of confusion as she tried to understand their smiles and words.

Ruhanika: "Phir aap kaam kaha karte hai???"

(Then where do you work?)

Ashvik: "Oh my innocent girl…"

Rudraksh: "Who’s what?"

Ashvik and Rishwik exchanged smirks, enjoying the sight of Rudraksh’s jealousy. They found it amusing that Rudraksh, despite his claims of not being in love, couldn't tolerate anyone calling his wife "their girl." Their playful smirks reflected their amusement at his possessiveness.

Ashvik: "Ha ha thik hai."

(Ha ha, alright)

Rudraksh continued to glare at Ashvik, clearly irritated by his remarks, while Ruhanika looked between them, puzzled. She waited for them to clarify what was happening, trying to make sense of their words.

Ashvik: "Areh toh teddy, ye tumhare pati ka koi boss nahi hai, kyuki bhaisaab khud boss hai."

(Teddy, your husband doesn’t have a boss because he himself is the boss.)

Ruhanika turned to Rudraksh, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of curiosity and excitement.

Ruhanika: "Aap swayam boss hai??"

(You are the boss?)

Rudraksh nodded reassuringly, acknowledging Ruhanika's question with a gentle smile. Meanwhile, Rishwik and Ashvik, having caught on to her Hindi, exchanged impressed glances, clearly surprised by her fluency and the way she navigated the conversation.

Ruhanika: "Toh aap kuch kaam nahi karte?? Sirf kaam karwate hai??"

(So, you don’t work? You just make others work?)

Rudraksh was taken aback by Ruhanika’s question, while Rishwik and Ashvik burst into laughter once more. Ruhanika, misinterpreting their reaction, felt a pang of sadness, believing that they were laughing at her. Noticing her downcast expression, Rishwik offered her a warm smile, trying to reassure her.

Rishwik: "Angel, we’re not laughing at you."

Ruhanika: " Toh Phir??"

(Then?)

Rishwik: "Hum toh bhai pe has rahe hai."

(We’re laughing at Bhai.)

Rudraksh continued to glare at Rishwik and Ashvik, who were still laughing heartily. He was mentally plotting various ways to punish them for their teasing. However, it seemed that his wife, Ruhanika, was more than capable of taking matters into her own hands.

Ruhanika: "Aap dono se bade hai ye, aapko hasna nahi chahiye inpe, achchi baat nahi hai ye. Aur agar ye aapse gussa ho gaye aur aapke paise kaat liye toh????"

(He’s older than you both. You shouldn’t laugh at him. It’s not right. What if he gets angry and deducts your salary?)

Rishwik and Ashvik both ceased their laughter and turned their attention to Ruhanika. Rudraksh also looked at her, his expression filled with pride.

Ashvik: "Teddy, tum hume warn kar rahi ho ya Rudraksh ko ideas de rahi ho??"

(Teddy, are you warning us or giving Rudraksh ideas?)

Ruhanika gently tugged at the hem of Rudraksh's sleeve, prompting him to lean closer to her.

Ruhanika: "Kya humne koi galat baat kardi?? Humne konsa idea de diya??"

(Did I say something wrong? What idea did I give?)

Rudraksh smiled warmly and shook his head, clearly amused by her question.

Rudraksh: "Koi galat baat nahi ki tumne. Ye dono hi pagal hai, dhyaan mat do inpe."

(You didn’t say anything wrong. Both of them are just crazy. Don’t pay attention to them.)

Ruhanika: "Jiii"

(Okay)

Rudraksh nodded in response to Ruhanika's gesture and then shifted his attention back to Ashvik and Rishwik. However, just as he was about to address them, Amandeep walked in, drawing their focus away.

Amandeep: "Good morning Sir."

Rudraksh gave a brief nod in acknowledgment.

Rishwik: "Good morning Aman"

Ashvik: "Good morning Aman."

Seeing everyone else greet Amandeep, Ruhanika decided she should join in and offer her own greetings.

Ruhanika: "Good morning inke ...."

Amandeep smiled warmly at Ruhanika, appreciating her gesture of greeting him.

Amandeep: "Good morning Ma'am, I’m Rudraksh Sir’s PA."

Ruhanika: "PA??"

Rudraksh: "Ye kaam karta hai mere liye."

(He works for me.)

Ruhanika: "Toh hum inhe kya bulaye??"

(Then what should I call him?)

Amandeep: "Jo bhi aap chaahe ma'am."

(Whatever you wish, Ma’am.)

Ruhanika: "Umm, hum soch ke batayenge."

(Umm, I’ll think about it and let you know.)

Amandeep smiled and nodded at Ruhanika, then handed his tablet to Rudraksh. As Rudraksh glanced at the screen, his expression turned puzzled. Amandeep began to explain but paused when he noticed Ruhanika’s presence. Understanding the situation, Rudraksh realized that Amandeep was about to provide details that might not be appropriate with Ruhanika around.

Rudraksh: "Chalo ab nashta ho gaya na tumhara, medicine kha lo ab."

(Alright, now that you’ve had breakfast, take your medicine.)

Ruhanika: "Aur phir hum kya karenge??"

(And then what will I do?)

Rudraksh: "kya karenge ka kya matlab hai, araam karogi aur kya??"

(What do you mean? You’ll rest, what else?)

Ruhanika: "Par hum thik hai."

(But I’m fine.)

Rudraksh: "Achcha bas kuch der araam karna phir main tumhe niche le aaunga thik hai??"

(Just rest for a little while. Then I’ll bring you downstairs, okay?)

Rudraksh guided Ruhanika to their room, where he provided her with her medications and asked her to wait a little while before he returned. After making sure she was settled, he left the room and headed downstairs. In the living area, he found Rishwik, Ashvik, and Amandeep waiting for him. Rudraksh took a seat on the couch, and Amandeep handed him the tablet once more. Rishwik and Ashvik were seated across from him, their eyes filled with curiosity as they anticipated what would come next.

Rudraksh: "Adhiraj Rajpurohit and Rajnandani Rajpurohit."

Amandeep: "Yes, Sir. Rana Adhiraj Rajpurohit and Rani Rajnandani Adhiraj Rajpurohit, parents of Rajkumari Ruhanika Adhiraj Rajpurohit."

Rudraksh glanced at Amandeep, for further clarification. Amandeep, understanding the unspoken cue, prepared to explain the contents of the tablet. Meanwhile, Rishwik and Ashvik were taken aback, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief, as they learned that Ruhanika hailed from a royal family and was, in fact, a princess.

Amandeep: "Rana Vikramaditya Rathore and Rani Rajlakshmi Rathore were the king and queen of Jaisalmer and had two children, Vijaypratap Rathore and Rajnandani Rathore. Rajnandani fell in love with the crown prince of Ajmer, Adhiraj Rajpurohit. Both the Rajpurohits and Rathores were happy with the alliance, and eventually, Rajnandani and Adhiraj got married. However, Adhiraj was not interested in becoming king, so he handed over his crown to his younger brother, Aviraj Rajpurohit. This allowed Rajnandani and Adhiraj to live their lives peacefully in Jaipur. But later on, Rana Vikramaditya Rathore discovered his son's involvement in illegal smuggling and other illicit activities. Realizing that he could not entrust the kingdom to Vijaypratap, he decided to consult his daughter and son-in-law. Consequently, Adhiraj Rajpurohit was declared king of Jaisalmer, and Rajnandani became the queen."

Rudraksh: "Vijaypratap is not the type to sit back and watch his own downfall. What did he do?"

Amandeep: "You're right, sir. He left the Rathore palace along with his wife and their two-year-old son on the day of the coronation. For a while, nothing significant happened. But over time, Rana Adhiraj found it increasingly difficult to manage both his business and the kingdom. Even Rajnandani was struggling to handle the Rathore family's business alongside managing the kingdom. Vikramaditya and Rajlakshmi noticed this too. After four years of marriage, the couple still didn't have a child, which concerned them, leading them to take a drastic step."

Amandeep paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle as he observed the curiosity in the eyes of those around him. Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Ashvik all waited eagerly for him to continue.

Rudraksh: "Drastic step?"

Amandeep: "Yes, sir. With everyone's consent, the Rathores handed over the kingdom of Jaisalmer to the government. From that point forward, there has been no ruling family in Jaisalmer, and the government has taken over its administration. However, the people there still regard Adhiraj and Rajnandani as their king and queen. After relinquishing their royal duties, Adhiraj and Rajnandani returned to Jaipur. Adhiraj focused on his business while Rajnandani managed the Rathore family business. Ten years later, they received news of Vikramaditya's death, and while on their way to the Rathore palace, Adhiraj and Rajnandani died in an accident. Since then, their daughter, Ruhanika Rajpurohit, was sent to live with her grandmother, Rajmata Rajlakshmi Rathore, who was left alone in the massive palace. Vijaypratap, being the sole heir of Vikramaditya after Rajnandani’s passing, took over the Rathore business and brought both Rajlakshmi and Ruhanika with him to Mumbai. Since that day, Ruhanika has been essentially caged in that house."

Ashvik: "But knowing the kind of person Vijaypratap is, he could have easily killed her. Yet he didn’t and kept her captive. There must be some reason, right?"

Rudraksh shot a sharp glare at Ashvik for the question, but deep down, he knew the inquiry was valid. The curiosity was palpable, and despite his irritation, he understood the importance of addressing it.

Amandeep: "Yes, sir. As bad luck would have it for Vijaypratap, Vikramaditya had already transferred all his property to Rajnandani and Adhiraj. After their passing, everything was legally transferred to their daughter, Ruhanika, as per their will. She will have full access to the property and businesses the day she turns 22."

Rudraksh: "So that's the reason Vijaypratap has kept Ruh captive—so he can transfer her properties and businesses to his name. He must need a lawyer for that."

Amandeep: "Yes, sir. But there's a small company founded by Mrs. Rajnandani for the women of Jaisalmer. That company also belongs to Ruhanika, and she could have taken over it when she turned 18, but..."

Rudraksh: "But what?"

Amandeep: "Sir, this is both shocking and confusing, but Ruhanika sold that company four years ago, likely right after she turned 18."

Rudraksh, Rishwik, and Ashvik were taken aback and puzzled. They were bewildered by the revelation that Ruhanika, who seemed so unfamiliar with the outside world, lacked any business acumen, and struggled with even basic conversations, could somehow manage to sell a company. The disparity between her perceived naivety and the complexity of such a significant business decision left them both shocked and confused.

Rudraksh: "Are you sure that Ruh sold the company?"

Amandeep: "Sir, no one else could have done it other than Ruhanika as she's the only legal head, so it's obvious that she did."

Suddenly, Rishwik's eyes widened in realization. He shot up from his seat, clearly struck by a sudden thought.

Rishwik: "Is the name of the company "HerImpact"?"

Amandeep: "Yes, sir. It’s the same company you’re thinking of."

Rudraksh: "What are you guys talking about?"

Rishwik remained in a state of shock, unable to blink or move, as if the revelation had frozen him in place.

Rudraksh: "Batayega bhi ab."

(Will you explain now?)

Rishwik: "Bro, do you remember we bought a company four years ago?"

Rudraksh: "Haa liya hoga toh?"

(Yeah, maybe. So?)

Rishwik: "Bro, it’s the same company where the owner gave the entire 300 crores to charity for an orphanage."

Seeing Rishwik's reaction, Rudraksh's own shock was palpable. He stood up abruptly, his mind racing to grasp the full extent of the revelation. Rudraksh was astonished to learn that Ruhanika was the owner of the company he had previously believed to be managed by a few loyal female employees with a hidden owner. This revelation was a profound shock to him, as he hadn't anticipated that Ruhanika herself held such a significant position.

Rudraksh: "That… that company belonged to Ruh?"

Amandeep: "Yes, sir. "HerImpact" belonged to Ruhanika Rajpurohit, and now the company is under Rishwik sir's name."

Ashvik: "Teddy ne 300 hundred crores, charity me de diya?? Par kyu."

(Teddy gave away 300 crores to charity? But why?)

Amandeep: "ye toh sirf Ruhi ma'am hi bata sakti hai."

(Only Ruhi ma'am can answer that.)

Rishwik: "I’ll definitely ask her. I mean, who gives away 300 crores?"

Rudraksh: "Koi kuch nahi puchega Ruh se."

(No one is going to ask Ruh anything.)

Rishwik: "Par bhai kyu?"

(But why, bro?)

Rudraksh: "We don’t know what might trigger her memories of the past. I don’t want that. I’ll try to figure it out on my own."

They all nodded in agreement, each processing the gravity of the situation in their own way.

Amandeep: "Sir, there’s one more thing."

Rudraksh: "What?"

Amandeep: "Vijaypratap is in close contact with a private investigator. He’s searching for someone, but I don’t know who. There’s no clear information about what Vijaypratap has been doing since he left the Rathore palace."

Rudraksh: "And when can I expect that information?"

Amandeep recognized from Rudraksh's stern tone that he was not willing to tolerate any further delays and expected immediate action.

Amandeep: "We’re working on it, sir. We’ll update you soon."

Rudraksh nodded curtly and quickly headed upstairs. Meanwhile, Rishwik and Ashvik continued their discussion with Amandeep downstairs. Rudraksh entered their room and found Ruhanika sitting quietly, lost in her thoughts as she fidgeted with the hem of her shirt. Every time he looked at her, a smile spread across his face, just as it did now. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the sight of her brought him a sense of warmth and happiness.

Rudraksh: "Ki kar Reya si sohneyo??"

(What are you doing, sweetheart?)

Rudraksh noticed that Ruhanika still hadn’t replied. Growingly concerned, he moved closer and sat beside her on the bed. He gently waved his hand in front of her eyes, but she remained unresponsive. He then lightly tapped her shoulder, causing her to startle. When she looked at him, her initial surprise melted into calmness as she met his reassuring gaze.

Rudraksh: "Kya ho gaya Sohneyo?? Kaha khoyi ho."

(What’s wrong? Where are you lost?)

Ruhanika: "Hum kuch bahaut zaruri soch rahe the."

(I was thinking about something very important.)

Rudraksh: "Achcha, zara mujhe bhi toh batao kya soch rahi thi???"

(Oh really? Come on, share it with me too. What were you thinking?)

Ruhanika adjusted her position, and Rudraksh gently assisted her, helping her sit up properly so she was facing him.

Ruhanika: "Agar hume kuch chahiye, toh hum kisse mangenge???"

(If I need something, whom should I ask?)

Rudraksh: "Ha toh bolo na tumhe kya chahiye?? Main le launga."

(Just tell me what you need, and I’ll get it for you.)

Ruhanika: "Vo hu..vo.."

(Well, I… um…)

Rudraksh frowned in confusion but then suddenly remembered something.

Rudraksh: "Achcha ha tumhe kapde chahiye na, tension mat lo main lete aaunga"

(Oh, I get it. You need clothes, right? Don’t worry, I’ll buy some for you.)

Ruhanika: "Nahi vo nahi"

(No, Not that)

Rudraksh: "Toh Phir??"

(Then what?)

Ruhanika was visibly confused and lowered her gaze. Noticing this, Rudraksh gently cupped her chin with his hand, guiding her to look up at him. With a reassuring smile, he encouraged her, hoping to calm her nerves and offer the support she needed.

Rudraksh: "Bolo betu, kya chahiye. Darr Rahi ho??"

(Tell me, sweetheart. What do you want? Are you scared?)

Ruhanika: "vo aapke dost hai na unhone humare liye kapde laaye, par bechare kitne bhole hai, unko dukaandar ne aadhe adhure kapde de diye. Unka nuksan ho gaya na, kya aap unhe paise de denge?? Hum de dete par humare pass hai nahi."

(It’s just that your friend brought clothes for me, but the poor guy, the shopkeeper gave him incomplete sets. He suffered a loss, didn’t he? Could you please give him the money? I would, but I don’t have any.)

Ruhanika expressed her concerns to Rudraksh, her voice tinged with fear about whether he would agree to her request. Despite her apprehension, Rudraksh responded with a warm smile and playfully pulled on her cheeks, trying to ease her worries and reassure her that everything would be okay.

Rudraksh: "Aaho Sohneyo"

(Yes, sweetheart…)

Ruhanika: "Jiii???"

(Yes?)

Rudraksh: "Tum chinta mat karo main dekh lunga. Par tum Darr kyu Rahi thi?? Tumhe Darr lagta hai mujhse kuch bhi kehne se??"

(Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it. But why were you scared? Are you afraid to ask me for anything?)

Ruhanika, feeling overwhelmed, lowered her head and shook it gently.

Ruhanika: "Kabhi kabhi, sabse zyada tab jab aapne vo Pani ka glass fek diya tha gusse me, us waqt hume laga aap humpe haath uthayenge."

(Sometimes, especially that time when you threw that glass of water in anger. I thought you were going to hit me.)

Rudraksh's jaw tightened in frustration as he realized the source of Ruhanika's doubts. His eyes darkened with anger, but he took a deep breath to calm himself. Without saying a word, he stood up and walked over to the closet, leaving Ruhanika feeling confused and worried that she had perhaps said something wrong. After a moment, Rudraksh returned, his expression softening. He found Ruhanika sitting on the bed, her face reflecting her sadness. Rudraksh gently smiled, and as he sat down beside her, he cupped her face tenderly in his hands. Ruhanika met his gaze, and seeing his warm smile, she began to feel reassured.

Rudraksh: "Meri baat suniye Sohneyo, agar maine kabhi bhi aapse uchi awaaz me baat ki ya aap pe haath uthaya."

(Listen to me, Sohneyo. If I ever raised my voice at you or even thought of raising my hand against you...)

Rudraksh gently released his hold on Ruhanika's face and instead took her hand in his, placing it in front of him. Ruhanika looked at him with a mixture of confusion and curiosity, trying to understand what he was about to do.

Rudraksh: "Toh ye lijiye, aur meri Jaan le lijiyega, main uff tak nahi karunga, Vada hai Sohneyo."

(Then here, take this, and take my life instead. I won't even say a word. It's a promise, Sweetheart)

Rudraksh spoke softly as he placed the gun in Ruhanika's hand. Her eyes widened in shock, and she quickly tossed the gun onto the bed before wrapping her arms around Rudraksh in a tight hug. His eyes widened in surprise at her sudden closeness, a reaction he wasn’t quite accustomed to. As he sat there, trying to process her reaction, he heard her begin to sob softly against his neck.

Rudraksh: "Betu???"

Rudraksh gently caressed Ruhanika's head, feeling her grip on him tighten even more. He held her close, his own emotions stirred by her distress.

Rudraksh: "Shhh Ruh, kya hua, rone kyu lagi???"

(Shhh, Ruh, what happened? Why are you crying?)

Ruhanika pulled back slightly, her eyes still teary. Rudraksh, unable to bear seeing her upset, swiftly wiped away her tears with tender care.

Rudraksh: "Rote nahi betu."

(Don't cry, baby.)

Ruhanika: Toh aap hume Rulaiye mat na, ye kaisi buri cheezein rakhte hai aap aapne pass?? Aur ab aap ek hi hai humare pass Jo humare apne hai, aur aap aise jaan lene ki baat kar rahe hai. Hum kaise rahenge aapke bina, humare pass toh ab koi hai bhi nahi na Nima hai aur koi bhi nahi toh uper se aap aisi baatein.."

(Then don't make me cry. You’re the only one I have left, the only one who’s mine, and now you’re talking about giving up your life. How will I live without you? I don’t have anyone anymore, not even Nima, and on top of that, you're talking like this...)

Ruhanika continued to cry, and Rudraksh felt a deep concern for her. He knew he couldn’t simply ask her about her past directly, as it might worsen her distress. Instead, he decided to give her space to express herself in her own time. Rudraksh could sense the depth of her pain and the extent to which she was affected by everything that had happened. He was determined to support her through this difficult time, understanding that her healing would come from her own willingness to open up.

Ruhanika: "Aap jante hai, hume na koi bhi pyaar nahi karta, bas Nima karti thi... Aur k...k..ya aap bhi nahi karte???"

(You know, no one loves me. Only Nima did... and d...do you love me? Or do you not love me either?)

Rudraksh found himself at a loss for words, unable to find the right response. His silence only deepened Ruhanika’s anguish, and more tears welled up in her eyes. The absence of reassurance from him felt like a heavy blow to her heart, amplifying her sense of despair.

Ruhanika: "Ky..a hum aapko bhi n..ahi pasand hai?? "

(Do you also not like me?)

Rudraksh could no longer bear to see her in such pain. He swiftly wrapped her in his arms, holding her tightly as if to shield her from all the hurt. His embrace was meant to offer solace and strength, a silent promise that he would always be there to support her through the turmoil.

Rudraksh: "Shh bachcha, tum toh sabse achchi ho, tumhe kon nahi pasand karega betu??"

(Shhh baby, you are the best, who will not like you?)

Ruhanika: "Kon nahi karega??"

(Who wouldn't like me?)

Ruhanika looked up at him, her eyes searching for reassurance, and asked with a hint of uncertainty. Rudraksh responded with a gentle chuckle, his eyes softening. He cupped her face once more.

Rudraksh: "Tum janti ho tumhe yaha sab pasand karte hai. Tabhi toh tumse dosti ki aur Ashvik ne toh kapde bhi laaye na tumhare liye???"

(You know everyone here likes you. That’s why they made friends with you, and Ashvik even brought clothes for you, didn’t he?)

Ruhanika: "Haa aur bechare kitne bhole bhi hai dhoka ho gaya unke sath."

(Yes, and he's so innocent too, he got cheated.)

Rudraksh managed to suppress his laughter, his expression becoming serious as he focused on Ruhanika.

Rudraksh: "Chodo jaane do vo sab tum, aur ye baat baat pe roya mat karo yaar, pasand nahi hai mujhe, dekho kaisi laal naak ho gayi hai."

(Forget all that. And stop crying over every little thing. I don’t like it. Look how red your nose has become.)

Ruhanika attempted to glance at her nose by rolling her eyes downward, but Rudraksh’s playful smile widened. He gently pinched her nose.

Ruhanika: "Dikha nahi hume."

(I can’t see it.)

Rudraksh: "Chodo use bhi tum, aur yaha Shanti se baith ke araam Karo."

(Forget that too. Now, sit here peacefully and rest.)

Ruhanika: "aur aap?? Aap phir chale jayenge???"

(And you? You’ll leave again?)

Rudraksh: "Nahi main kahi nahi ja raha, bas thoda kaam hai par yahi tumhare bagal me baith ke karunga thik hai??"

(No, I’m not going anywhere. I just have a little work, but I’ll do it sitting right here beside you, okay?)

Ruhanika's smile revealed her dimples as she nodded in agreement. Rudraksh, feeling a surge of warmth, left the room briefly and returned with his laptop. He settled beside her on the bed, creating a cozy, intimate space. As he made himself comfortable, Ruhanika naturally rested her head on his shoulder, curling her fingers around his arm. In response, Rudraksh instinctively kissed the top of her head, a gentle, affectionate gesture. With her resting peacefully beside him, he turned his attention back to his work. Ruhanika watched in fascination as Rudraksh's fingers danced across the keyboard with impressive speed and precision. She marveled at the grace and agility with which he typed, her own fingers itching to touch his and play with them. However, she didn't want to interrupt his focus. As time passed, she felt her eyelids growing heavier. Despite her curiosity and the desire to stay awake, the soothing rhythm of Rudraksh’s typing and his steady presence beside her lulled her into a peaceful slumber. She drifted off, remaining nestled against his shoulder, her head resting comfortably as she slept. Rudraksh glanced down at Ruhanika, a tender smile forming on his lips as he saw her peacefully asleep against him. However, his smile slowly faded as he wrestled with a whirlwind of emotions and questions in his mind. He found himself reflecting on the depth of his feelings for her—how he had become so soft and gentle, how he couldn't bring himself to deny her when she asked about his love, and why her happiness seemed to be his utmost priority. He also pondered why he felt such a fierce urge to seek retribution against anyone who had caused her pain. The intensity of his emotions surprised him, and he struggled to understand the powerful bond that made him feel this way.

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Surprise!

Hope you liked it! As promised, I planned to give 3 updates last week but couldn’t due to my holiday being canceled on Monday. So, here’s an update today! Also, Saturday’s chapter will be posted late, around 11 PM on Saturday, since I’m working that day.

Also, I apologize for yesterday—the chapter was accidentally published ahead of time.

Now, tell me—do you still not want me to show Rishwik and Ashvik’s love story? If yes, we can start it after the chaos ends, but if you want, it can begin earlier as well.

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Happy reading 🌸💙

Lot's of Love 🫂💙