💔CONFUSED HEART-CHAPTER-16

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Third pov:

Reena stormed into Ajay's room, her eyes blazing with frustration and determination. The humiliation she had endured earlier, all because of Rudhran, was eating away at her. How dare he make her feel like this? She clenched her fists, vowing that she would make him fall for her and betray him.

As she stepped closer to Ajay's bed, her anger briefly softened. He was sprawled out, sleeping peacefully, his face almost boyish in its calmness. A rare smile crept onto her lips, Leaning down, she kissed his forehead gently, her fingers brushing against his unruly hair.

Her gaze shifted to his phone lying nearby, and curiosity sparked within her. She picked up the device and smirked, taking his thumb and pressing it onto the sensor. The phone unlocked with a quiet click.

She navigated to his messages first,  A few unopened messages from some girls caught her eye, and her heart flared with possessiveness. "Ignored them, did you?" her jealousy morphing into smug satisfaction. If any of them thought they could get close to Ajay, she would handle them herself.

Then, she moved to his gallery, her curiosity growing. As the images loaded, she scoffed at the mundane collection. There were a few adult videos, which didn't faze her, and a stash of photos and videos of them together. Any other woman might have felt violated or embarrassed seeing such intimate footage, but not Reena. She basked in it, watching herself with Ajay in those moments. Her lips curved into a twisted smile. To her, it was proof of how deeply she belonged to him.

But then, something else caught her eye, she spotted three photos of Aaradhya. Her stomach twisted as jealousy flared violently within her. They weren't just innocent photos—they were candid shots of Aaradhya bending over while cleaning, her hips accentuated in the angles.

Reena's blood boiled.  Her hands trembled as she gripped the phone tightly, her nails digging into the case. She looked back at Ajay, still fast asleep,her emotions a chaotic swirl of anger, jealousy, and obsession. She hugged him tightly, "I can't do anything to you. You're mine. You'll always be mine."

But someone else would pay for this. If she couldn't take her anger out on Ajay, she would find another way to channel it.

Meanwhile, Ganga was sitting by the window, a serene smile on her face as she thought about Aaradhya. Ever since Rajendran had brought the girl to their home, there was something about her that Ganga couldn't quite put her finger on. It was an invisible connection as if Aaradhya had always belonged there. When Rajendran announced that she would stay and work with them, Ganga had been content—almost relieved.Rajendran told Aaradhya's parents died in an accident she dont have anyone so told his mother not to ask about the past and hurt her and Ganga felt bad for her. The young girl's politeness and soft nature reminded Ganga of her late daughter, Seetha. The days back then had been so peaceful, so blissful. But everything had changed after her son's mistake. Everything.

Ganga's heart warmed as she thought of Rudhran. She could tell from the way he looked at Aaradhya—he was falling for her. And honestly, Ganga couldn't blame him. Aaradhya was the kind of girl anyone could fall for. She was so different from the rest.

At that moment, Sathyan sensing his mother's contemplating mood. "Amma, what are you thinking about? "

Ganga turned her gaze to him, "I was just thinking about Aaradhya," she said softly, "Rudhran's taken quite a liking to her, hasn't he?"

Sathyan nodded, a chuckle escaping his lips. "Looks like it. He's head over heels for her."

Ganga sighed, her eyes distant as she reflected on the days gone by. "I just worry, Sathya. How do we keep this a secret from Raja? he can't take it. You know how much Rudhran dislikes him, especially because of his past..."

Sathyan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Amma. Rudhra will take care of everything. And Annan will be happy too. After all, he's the one who brought Aaradhya here."

Ganga's heart lifted slightly, reassured by her son's words. There was a quiet certainty in Sathyan's tone that calmed her. As much as she worried about the complications that might arise, she trusted Rudhran. He would handle things. He always did, in his own way.

In the Eswaran industries,

Ajay, was fuming internally in his cabin. Stripped of his shady dealings under Rudhran's watchful eye, Ajay continued his tasks grudgingly. But in his mind, he vowed, I'll bring Rudhran down one day.

After wrapping up their factory inspections, Rudhran and Vishnu settled into Rudhran's sleek office. The space radiated authority, with its polished glass desk, leather chairs, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city. Vishnu sprawled casually in a chair opposite Rudhran, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. Rudhran, however, sat calm and composed, his sharp gaze fixed on a file in front of him.

"So," Vishnu began, breaking the silence. "What's the verdict on Sandeep's findings?"

Rudhran leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled. "It's exactly as I expected," he said, his voice steady. "Aaradhya's life hasn't been easy, but she's managed to rise above it all. Sandeep confirmed her background—top of her class in school and college, a small-town girl who thrived despite limited resources and rest we know"

Rudhran's fingers drummed steadily against the desk, his sharp eyes narrowing as he voiced his thoughts. "Exactly. That man—how did he just happen to be there at the right time? Coincidence doesn't fit here, Vishnu."

Vishnu leaned back in his chair, arms folded casually. "You're saying it was planned?"

Rudhran's voice was firm, cutting through the office's quiet hum. "I don't want to drag this out. Let's ask him now and get it over with."

Vishnu raised an eyebrow and snorted. "Dei, don't you know? Periyappa's on a business trip to Delhi. He won't be back for another two days."

Rudhran let out an audible sigh, clearly irritated. Vishnu, spotting the opportunity, smirked and added with mock seriousness, "Even this is an important matter we cant talk through phone And you call yourself a CEO? How come you don't even know about office affairs, da?"

Rudhran shot him a dry look and shook his head at his antics. "You're impossible," he muttered as he stood, brushing off imaginary lint from his suit.

"Where are you running off to now?" Vishnu asked, eyeing him with suspicion.

"Work," Rudhran said curtly, already moving toward the door.

Vishnu's eyebrows shot up, and he leaned forward with a teasing grin. "What kind of 'work' are you conveniently avoiding to tell your elder brother? Dei, you're up to something!"

Rudhran paused at the door, half-turning with a smirk. "Mind your own business, Vishnu."

Vishnu leaned back, laughing. "Mind my own business? That's what I'm doing, da! You're my business. But go ahead. You can't hide for long, Rudhran. I'll find out."

Rudhran shook his head again, exasperated but amused by his brother's antics. As he walked out of the office, a small smile tugged at his lips.

Meanwhile, Vishnu reclined in his chair back in the office, chuckling to himself. "He's hiding something for sure," he muttered, shaking his head. "This fellow won't stop until he turns everything into a mystery."

The soft chime of bells echoed as Rudhran pushed open the door to the jewelry store, his sharp gaze taking in the gleaming display counters, glittering under the warm, ambient lights. The faint scent of sandalwood lingered in the air, blending with the hum of soft instrumental music in the background. It was his first time stepping into such a place—not for business, but for something personal—and it showed. Rudhran's thoughts drifted to Aaradhya as he moved toward the anklet section. He could vividly picture her—her graceful pace, the way her eyes sparkled with a blend of curiosity and shyness whenever they crossed paths. He was confident she felt something for him too. He had caught the subtle hints—the lingering gazes, the unspoken connection that seemed to bloom between them.

"This time," he thought with a determined smile, "I'll make her mine. No pressure, no rush—just my love, and she'll see I mean every word."

He walked in confidently, hands in his pockets, his tailored suit a sharp contrast to the relaxed vibe of the store. Despite his composed exterior, there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as he approached the counters.

Walking purposefully towards the anklet section, his sharp gaze swept over the rows of sparkling jewelry. He stopped in front of a display filled with delicate, intricately designed pieces, but his brows furrowed almost immediately.

A few of them had recognized him, whispering in awe about "CEO Rudhran." The manager, catching wind of his presence, rushed out with a slightly flustered smile.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Rudhran. What an honor to have you here. How may we assist you today?"

Rudhran didn't even glance at him, his focus entirely on the anklets. "I'll handle this myself," he, his tone polite but firm. The manager hesitated, nodded, and stepped back, instructing the staff not to crowd him.

Rudhran leaned forward slightly, his brows knitting in concentration. Picking up an anklet, he turned it over in his hands, carefully inspecting the edges. His thumb ran along the surface, testing for sharpness. "Too rough," he muttered to himself, placing it back with a slight frown.

A middle-aged woman, likely in her mid-40s, who worked as one of the senior assistants, noticed his struggle. Her kind eyes and warm demeanor made her approach feel natural, not intrusive.

"Sir, would you like some help?" she asked gently.

Rudhran glanced at her, his usual guardedness softening slightly. "Yes," he admitted, stepping aside to let her take over.

"What exactly are you looking for?" she asked, her tone motherly.

He hesitated for a moment, as if carefully choosing his words. "Something elegant. Light, delicate, and comfortable. It should..." he paused, then added softly, "...it shouldn't hurt her in any way."

The woman smiled knowingly and picked a few pieces, placing them on the counter. "These are some of our best designs. Simple yet beautiful."

Rudhran inspected them closely, his fingers brushing over the designs. One caught his eye—a delicate anklet adorned with tiny bells that gave off a soft chime. It wasn't overly flashy but had a charm that reminded him of Aaradhya's grace.

"This one," he said, holding it up. But then his over-cautious nature kicked in. "Wait," he added, running his fingers over it. "Check it again. I don't want any sharp edges or anything that might poke her."

The lady chuckled softly, her voice filled with motherly warmth. "Don't worry, sir. I'll double-check it for you." She examined the anklet meticulously, nodding in approval. "It's perfect."

Rudhran's lips curved into a small, satisfied smile. As she handed it over to the staff for packing, she asked gently, "For your wife, sir?"

There was a moment of silence, and then Rudhran nodded with a soft smile.

The woman tilted her head, her curiosity evident, but she didn't press. Instead, she gave him an approving smile. "She's lucky, You've put so much thought into this."

Rudhran's expression softened further. "She deserves the best," he murmured.

As the anklet was being packed, Rudhran stood quietly, imagining the look on Aaradhya's face when she saw it. His heart swelled at the thought of her shy smile and the way she'd probably fidget with the anklet, unsure how to react.

Walking out of the store, the small box securely in his hand, Rudhran felt a rare, genuine smile creep across his face,  when his phone buzzed insistently. Fishing it out, he glanced at the screen. The caller ID showed his office manager, Karthik.

With a sigh, Rudhran answered, but his expression changed hearing the other side and he muttered "I will be there"

Aaradhya pov:

I stirred the gravy gently, the warm aroma filling the kitchen, while Dhivya sniffled dramatically, her eyes lighting up. "Wow, Aaradhya! I've told this a hundred times, but you really have magic in your hands. Now I know why Rudhran anna loves your cooking so much!"

Hearing his name, my cheeks burned, and my hands fumbled slightly. Why did her words make me feel so... fluttery? I tried to focus on the gravy, but Dhivya's teasing smile didn't help. She continued chatting while chopping vegetables, completely unaware of how her words made my heart race.

I thought about my phone, sitting unused in my little room. Rudhran sir had patiently explained how to use it, even saving important numbers for me—his, Vishnu sir's, Priya akka's, and Dhivya's. He always made sure I had everything I needed, and I couldn't help but admire how thoughtful he was. A small smile tugged at my lips at the memory, though I quickly shook it off, scolding myself for being silly.

The house was unusually quiet. Patti was resting in her room, and Yamuna madam had gone to her ladies' club. Gomathi amma and Priya akka had stepped out to the temple nearby. Everything felt peaceful until Dhivya's phone rang.

She answered it cheerfully at first. "Hello, Amma!" But then her expression shifted, her face pale with shock. "I'll come right now," she said hurriedly, ending the call. Turning to me, she looked worried. "Priya anni fainted in the temple! Amma is taking her to the hospital. I need to go now."

Her panic made my chest tighten. "Don't worry," I said, trying to reassure her. "Nothing will happen to Priya akka. She'll be fine." I closed my eyes briefly, praying silently to Lord Murugan. He always takes care of good people like Priya akka, and I trusted Him to do the same now.

Dhivya nodded, her worry easing slightly. "You stay here, okay? Patti is here" With that, she rushed out, leaving the house feeling emptier.

I turned off the stove and wiped my hands, deciding to call Dhivya after a while to check on Priya akka. As I walked toward my little room outside the main house, I muttered another quick prayer for her. But before I could reach my door, Reena madam appeared out of nowhere.

Her sudden presence startled me. "Reena madam," I began, but before I could ask what she needed, she grabbed my hand in a tight grip. Her nails dug into my skin, and her expression... it scared me. Her eyes burned with some anger I didn't understand.

Reena madam's grip tightened as she dragged me toward the corner of the backyard, away from anyone who might see us. My heart pounded,  I stumbled slightly, trying to keep up with her fast pace, When we were out of sight, she finally let go, shoving me against the wall.

"What do you think you're doing?" she spat, and I froze, my hands trembling. "Do you think you're clever? Trying to worm your way into places you don't belong?"

"Madam, I don't understand," I whispered, My throat tightened though I had no idea what I'd done wrong.

Her laugh was cold and mocking. "Don't play innocent with me. You think I don't see it? The way you try to act so sweet and pure, like you're something special. Let me tell you—he doesn't care about you. You're nothing but a distraction. A plaything."

Her words cut through me like a knife. My heart clenched painfully as I realized she was talking about him ofcourse it would be Rudhran sir, But he is a good man.

"Madam, I would never—"

"Shut up!" she snapped, stepping closer, her voice dropped to a venomous whisper. "Do you know who you are? You're an orphan. A maid. That's all you'll ever be. Don't think for a second that someone like him would ever choose you. I'm the only one for him. Me. You're just a nobody he's using for fun."

My chest tightened, and my breath hitched as tears welled up in my eyes. Her words hit harder than anything I'd ever heard before. She thought Rudhran sir was using me? No... he wasn't like that. He couldn't be. But doubt crept into my heart, clawing its way in with every cruel word she said.

"I... I didn't mean to—" I tried to speak, but my voice broke, and the tears began to fall.

"Didn't mean to what?" she sneered. "Steal his attention? Make him look at you? Don't flatter yourself. You're just a joke to him—a way to pass the time. He doesn't care about you, Aaradhya. He never will."

Her words shattered something deep inside me. My heart felt like it was being crushed under an unbearable weight. I thought of Rudhran sir—the warmth in his voice when he spoke to me, the kindness in his eyes. Could it all really be fake? Could I have misread everything?

Reena madam's voice grew colder as she continued. "You think you're special because he talks to you? Looks at you? Don't fool yourself. He'll toss you aside the moment he gets bored. You are just a cheap distraction, and You'll never be anything more than a servant to him. Understand?"

I nodded weakly, though every word left me shattered inside. If she was talking about Rudhran sir, then everything I'd foolishly dreamed of—the warmth in his eyes, the kindness in his voice—was a lie. He was just being polite, and I had misread everything.

Reena madam stepped back, "Stay in your place," she said coldly. "And remember—he's mine."

She stormed off, leaving me standing there, trembling and broken. Tears finally spilled over, and I sank to the ground, clutching my knees. My heart ached in ways I couldn't describe. Had I really misunderstood everything?

The weight of her words crushed me. Orphan. Maid. Plaything. I had never felt ashamed of who I was until now. All the kindness Rudhran sir had shown me—was it really just pity?

I wiped my tears with trembling hands and whispered a prayer to Lord Murugan. I didn't know how to deal with this pain, but I had to believe He would guide me. Even if my heart felt like it was breaking into a thousand pieces, I had to keep moving forward.

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