CHAPTER 35 : "KASHI'S VEER JI"

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I sincerely apologize for the late update. I was caught up with a family function and couldn't find the time to complete the chapter. This week is a bit hectic for me as well, but I promise that starting next week (.ie. next month too), updates will be regular. Thank you so much for your love, patience, and support. It means alot to me!🫶🏻🫀

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Kashi's voice was barely a whisper, muffled against his chest as though the weight of her words threatened to crush her. "Thank you....for everything. For saving Maa. For saving me...." Her voice quivered, and tears dampened the fabric of his sherwani. "I thought....I thought everything was over, Veer ji. I had hope.....hope that you would come. But with every passing moment, that hope began to fade. I was so scared....so scared that I would never see you again," she said with heart-wrenching sobs.

Vishwanath felt his heart clench at her confession. He tightened his hold on her, his arms firm and protective, as if silently vowing to never let her face such horrors again. With one hand, he gently tilted her chin up, his deep, dark eyes meeting hers with an intensity that sent a wave of reassurance through her.

"How could I have not come to save my life, Kashi?" he murmured, his voice low and thick with emotion. "You are my life. You are the air I breathe, the reason my heart beats. From the moment you entered my world, everything changed. You brought light into my darkness, hope into my despair. I love you so much, Kashi. You are more than just my wife, you are my anchor, my strength, and my salvation. Every time you smile, it feels like the battles I fight every day are worth it. And when you are hurt.....it feels like my soul has shattered into a thousand pieces. I could never let anything happen to you, Kashi. Not as long as I live. You are my everything. I would fight the entire world to protect you."

Listening to his heartfelt words, more tears spilled down Kashi's cheeks. How much this man had done for her always, selflessly. How much he loved not just her, but her only family her mother too. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Kashi allowed herself to feel safe. In his arms, she wasn't the burden her father claimed her to be or the girl struggling to fight against the odds. She was simply Kashi, cherished, protected, and, for the first time, loved.

But just as she was about to lose herself in the overwhelming comfort of his embrace, his voice broke through her emotions again. "I'm really sorry, Kashi, for marrying you without your proper consent. I know it wasn't fair to you, and I....."

Kashi gently pulled back herself from his embrace, her eyes filled with a tenderness that made him pause. "Please don't say this, Veer ji. I understand why you did what you did. Everything you have ever done has been to protect me and Maa. I could never doubt your intentions. You are the only man in my life who has ever made me feel this safe, this valued."

She hesitated for a moment, her cheeks warming as she lowered her gaze, shyly playing with her fingers. "And about my consent.....Veer ji, this morning, before everything happened, I was about to say yes to your proposal." Her words faltered as a deep blush crept across her face, and she glanced away, unable to meet his gaze.

Vishwanath stared at her, stunned. A genuine, heartfelt smile spread across his face, as if all the doubts and worries that had plagued him moments ago were vanquished. His Kashi was about to say yes to him. This was it. This was the moment he had longed for.

"Are you sure, Kashi?" he asked, his voice trembling with both hope and longing. He cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs gently brushing away the tears on her cheeks. "We are husband and wife now. Do you accept me? Do you wholeheartedly accept this relationship, this new chapter of our lives together?"

"Kashi didn't hesitate. She reached out, her small hands wrapping firmly around his. "Vishwanath ji, our marriage is real. It's the truth. We took pheras around the holy fire. I might not have been in my real senses then, bound by the misery of being forced to marry a man like Neel, but those pheras were genuine. I know you would have taken each vow with full faith. And right now I promise you, I will fulfill every vow we made. I will stand by you in every joy and sorrow, in every challenge and victory. You are my husband, and I will be your partner in every sense of the word."

Her voice was steady, her gaze unwavering, and the sincerity in her words left Vishwanath momentarily speechless. A surge of emotion rose in his chest, and before he could stop himself, he pulled her into his arms again. This time, his embrace was fiercer, his hold tighter, as if he never wanted to let her go.

For a moment, they stood there, lost in the solace of each other's presence. It was as though the rest of the world had ceased to exist, leaving only the two of them, bound by a love that was as pure as it was unshakable. A gentle smile played on both of their lips, a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken connection they shared, a love that needed no words, only the quiet harmony of their hearts beating as one.

Outside, the sound of car engines revving broke through the stillness. Vishwanath slowly pulled back, his hands lingering on her shoulders as he gazed down at her with a tenderness that took her breath away. "Let's go," he whispered, his voice soft but resolute. We need to be with Anjali aunty."

He laced his fingers through hers, their hands fitting together perfectly. Together, they stepped forward, ready to face the next chapter of their lives united, stronger, and unshakably bonded.

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The car waited just outside the entrance, its sleek black exterior gleaming under the dim glow of the estate's lights. It was a vehicle that demanded attention even in the stillness of the night. Rudra sat in the passenger seat beside the driver, his sharp features illuminated by the faint dashboard lights. Though known for his mischievous nature, his face was now set in a mask of calm observation. His gaze lingered on the grand mansion doors, he smiled as he watched his bhaiya and bhabhi step out together.

Kashi's hand was nestled securely in Vishwanath's, her petite fingers trembling slightly against his firm, steady grip. Her heart raced, a mixture of exhaustion from the day's chaos and the overwhelming sense of safety his protective presence provided. Every step they took down the mansion's wide marble stairs felt surreal to her, the events of the day replaying in her mind.

Her eyes remained on him, drawn to the subtle gestures that spoke of his care. The way he adjusted his hold on her hand as if shielding her from the world. The slight squeeze of his fingers, reassuring her without a word. It was a tenderness she hadn't expected but found herself leaning into, her heart swelling with emotions she wasn't yet ready to name.

From the front seat, Rudra's lips curved into a faint smile. It wasn't the teasing smirk that usually adorned his face but something softer, more thoughtful. He remained silent, watching the two with an unusual calmness, as if even he understood the weight of the moment. For once, the mischievous spark in his eyes was replaced with quiet pride and a touch of warmth as he saw the bond between his bhaiya and bhabhi take shape.

When they reached the car, Vishwanath opened the backseat door with a smooth motion and turned toward Kashi. His movements were deliberate, unhurried, and filled with care. Placing one hand on the top of the car to steady her, he gently guided her to sit inside. "Careful," he murmured, his voice low, soothing, as though the entire world had narrowed down to just her in this moment.

Kashi, still in a daze from everything that had happened, obediently sat down. Her heavy lehenga trailed outside the door, the intricate embroidery glinting under the soft light. Without hesitation, Vishwanath crouched, gathering the delicate fabric in his hands. He placed it neatly inside, ensuring not a single thread was caught before closing the door gently.

The whole time, Kashi's eyes stayed on him. Her chest tightened with an unnameable emotion as she watched him move to the other side of the car. How could someone with so much power, so much authority, be so gentle, so attentive? Her Veer ji was truly a man unlike any other.

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The car glided to a halt in front of the City hospital,Bundelkhand, and Kashi's eyes widened as she took in the sight before her. The building was enormous, towering above her with its facade gleaming under the soft glow of evening lights,a masterpiece of modern architecture. It was a stark contrast to the humble hospitals she was accustomed to in Jhansi. This place looked more like a luxury hotel than a medical facility. The entrance was flanked by manicured gardens and uniformed security guards standing rigidly at attention. The large glass doors reflected her astonished face as Vishwanath helped her step out of the car.

Her lehenga trailed slightly as she got out, and Vishwanath, ever attentive, again leaned down to adjust the folds, making sure no part of the delicate fabric get caught in the car. As he straightened, his hand instinctively found hers again, anchoring her in his protective presence. Kashi heart was overwhelmed by a mix of gratitude, admiration, and emotions she couldn't yet name.

The trio walked into the hospital together, Kashi's small hand still clasped in Vishwanath's firm grip. Inside, the opulence of the hospital lobby left her breathless. The marble floors gleamed under the golden lights, and a massive chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting intricate patterns across the walls. The faint scent of antiseptic was masked by the subtle aroma of fresh flowers arranged meticulously in crystal vases.

But it was the VVIP section that truly stunned her. A line of security guards flanked the entrance, their postures rigid as they stood in perfect formation. The moment Vishwanath and Rudra approached, the guards bowed deeply, their respect evident, acknowledging them as the King and Prince of Bundelkhand.Kashi's heart skipped a beat. This was the world her Veer ji belonged to, a world of power, authority, and unwavering respect.

As they neared the private room, a familiar figure came into view. Raghavendra stood near the door, his tall frame imposing yet calm. His sharp eyes quickly scanned his older brother, his gaze briefly lingering on the wedding attire Vishwanath still wore before shifting to Kashi. There was a flicker of surprise in his eyes, but it was gone almost as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual stoic mask.

Before anyone could speak, a doctor approached, his white coat pristine, his demeanor professional but respectful. He inclined his head directly towards Vishwanath. "Mr. Singhania," he began, "the patient is stable for now. Her condition, however, remains critical. She will need a kidney transplant as soon as possible. We have already begun searching the donor banks for a match, and we will inform you immediately as soon as we find one. For now, she is under observation and will regain consciousness shortly." The doctor completed his report before nodding to the king in respect.

Vishwanath nodded back, his expression grave. "Thank you, doctor. Keep me updated on any developments."

The doctor inclined his head again and left. Vishwanath turned to Kashi, his features softening as he addressed her. "Go inside, Kashi. Aunty will need to see you when she wakes up. I will be there in a while."

Kashi hesitated, her hand tightening around his as if reluctant to leave his side. The events of the day had shaken her to her core, and the thought of being away from his protective presence, even for a moment, filled her with unease.

But then she met his steady gaze, calm and reassuring, a silent promise that he wouldn't let anything harm her. His unspoken strength gave her the courage she needed. Taking a deep breath, she nodded slightly, her fingers loosening their grip. She also understood that he wanted to speak to her brothers, to discuss matters she might not need to hear.

With one last glance at him, she stepped into the room, the door closing softly behind her. Her heart still raced, but she trusted him completely, knowing he would handle whatever needed to be done outside while she stayed by her mother's side.

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The atmosphere in the corridor shifted as the three brothers stood together, the weight of the day's events pressing down on them. The tension was palpable, with unspoken questions and emotions swirling in the silence. Rudra, ever the one to break it, recounted the chaos that had unfolded at Oberoi estate earlier to Raghavendra, his usually lighthearted demeanor replaced with a rare seriousness.

As Rudra finished speaking, Raghavendra let out a low sigh, his brows furrowed in contemplation. He glanced at the closed door behind which Kashi had disappeared, his expression conflicted. Finally, he broke the silence, his voice low but tinged with hesitation.

"Bhaiya," Raghav began cautiously, his eyes darting between Vishwanath and the floor as though choosing his words carefully. "I know you are married now, and Kashi is...." He trailed off, his uncertainty evident as he struggled to articulate his thoughts. "....but are you sure? I mean...." He paused again, his voice faltering as his gaze dropped further. "Are you sure she's the right one for you?"

Rudra stepped forward, his tone lighter but edged with irritation. "Raghav Bhaiya, please don't start overthinking again. You know that bhaiya wouldn't have taken this decision lightly. Trust him."

Vishwanath raised a hand, signaling Rudra to stop. He stepped closer to Raghavendra, his presence calm yet commanding. Gently, he placed a hand on his younger brother's shoulder, his eyes filled with understanding. "Raghav, I know trusting someone doesn't come easily to you, especially after everything that happened. I can't blame you for having doubts. But let me tell you this, Kashi isn't like her. She is different and special. The most innocent, pure-hearted soul I have ever met."

His voice softened, a hint of emotion creeping in. "She doesn't see me as King Vishwanath Rai Singhania, the man everyone bows to. She doesn't care about my title, my wealth, or my power. To her, I'm just her Veer ji, the person she trusts and looks up to. She has no greed, no hidden motives. She is innocent, yet so incredibly strong and determined. Despite everything life has thrown at her, she has managed to keep her kindness and courage intact, Raghav. Her heart is untainted by the world's ugliness."

Vishwanath's eyes met Raghavendra's, filled with quiet conviction. "I know you're afraid, Raghav," he said, his voice steady but laced with understanding. "Afraid that I might face the same pain you once did. That I might be betrayed, hurt, or left broken." "But I promise you," he continued, his tone firm with resolve, "Kashi could never do that. Her heart is too pure, too selfless. I've seen her endure more than anyone should, and yet she carries no malice, no selfishness."

Vishwanath's grip on Raghavendra's shoulder tightened slightly, a silent show of solidarity. "I know it's hard for you to trust again. But Kashi is not someone who will ever betray me or my family. I trust her, Raghav. And I need you to trust me when I say that she is not just the right one for me, she is my everything. One day, you will see what I see in her, the love, the goodness, the strength that makes her who she is."

Raghavendra's eyes softened, the tension in his stance easing slightly as Vishwanath's words sank in. For a moment, he said nothing, the turmoil evident in his eyes. And then finally, he looked up, his expression softening ever so slightly. "Bhaiya," he said, his voice quiet but resolute, "if you believe in her, then I will too. I....I accept her as my Bhabhi."

Raghavendra's gaze held unwavering respect, a reflection of the immense trust he had in his elder brother. Vishwanath had always been his guiding light, a pillar of strength and wisdom in his life. He knew that his Bhaiya's judgment was rarely wrong, and his faith in Vishwanath's decisions was absolute.

A faint smile tugged at Vishwanath's lips, and he patted Raghavendra's shoulder affectionately. "Thank you, Raghav," he said. "That means more than you know."

A quiet understanding passed between the three brothers, their bond fortified by the unspoken promise to stand by each other. United and resolute, they prepared to confront whatever awaited them, together, as a family.

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The room was enveloped in an eerie silence, broken only by the soft beeping of the monitors. Kashi sat beside her mother, holding Anjali's frail hand in hers, gently caressing her forehead with a tenderness born of countless sleepless nights. Her eyes were heavy with exhaustion but filled with a flicker of hope that had been reignited after what felt like an eternity.

The faint sound of the door closing softly behind her made her look over her shoulder. Her gaze met Vishwanath's towering figure as he stepped inside, his movements steady yet filled with a quiet reverence. His wedding attire was slightly rumpled, but the authority and warmth he exuded remained intact.

"Aree, Veer...." Kashi began instinctively, only to catch herself mid-sentence. Her cheeks flushed as she quickly corrected herself, "Mera matlab hai, Vishwanath ji....aap aagaye." (I mean, Vishwanath ji....you are here)

A faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he approached her. His eyes held hers, steady and kind, as he crouched slightly to meet her at eye level. "Kashi," he said gently, his voice like a soothing balm, "pehle tum mujhe mere naam se pukaro." (First, call me by my name)

Kashi blinked, momentarily confused. "Vishwanath ji?" she asked hesitantly, the name feeling too formal and strange for her.

He shook his head, his smile deepening. "Nahi, Kashi. Yeh naam nahi. Voh naam jisse tum mujhe dil se pukarti ho." (No, Kashi. Not this name. The one you call me with from your heart.)

Her heart skipped a beat as his words registered in her mind. Her lips parted slightly in hesitation, her cheeks tinged pink as she whispered, "Veer ji?"

A softness overtook his expression, a mix of affection and amusement. "Haan, Kashi. Kyunki main tumhare liye humesha tumhara Veer hi rahunga. Mana yeh mera asli naam nahi hai, par iss naam se meri aur tumhari bohot saari khaas yaadein judi hai. Isliye main chahta hoon ki tum mujhe isi naam se bulao." (Yes, Kashi. Because for you, I will always be your Veer. I know this isn't my real name, but this name holds so many special memories between us. That's why I want you to call me by this name only)

His words wrapped around her heart, filling the room with an unspoken intimacy. She glanced down at her lap, her blush deepening as she nervously twisted the edge of her dupatta. "Par.....aapko toh sab Vishwanath bulate hain....phir?" (But....everyone calls you Vishwanath....then?) she stammered softly.

Vishwanath tilted his head slightly, his voice low yet firm as he interrupted her. "Unke liye main Vishwanath hoon, par Veer main sirf apni Kashi ke liye hoon." (For them, I am Vishwanath, but I'm Veer only for my Kashi)

Kashi managed a tiny nod, her voice still lost somewhere in the whirlwind of emotions he always seemed to stir within her. As Vishwanath straightened up, a small, satisfied smile played on his lips, knowing the effect he had on her.

The world around them faded for a moment, leaving just the two of them in their shared silence, a silence that spoke volumes, a promise that she was his, and he was hers, in a way no one else could ever claim.

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