AUTHOR'S POV:
The marriage almost came to an end. Anira sat on the bed, exhausted and breathing heavily.
Her eyes scanned the new room, her new room. She keenly looked towards the door, waiting for Devansh to arrive; however, sadly, there was no trace of him. Anira breathed disappointedly.
She picked up her phone and opened their group chat. Guilt had already overtaken her. The sorrow of her best friends' absence from her wedding disturbed her. She sent a text:
"Guys, I'm sorry for today's behavior. I want to clear everything out. Can we meet tomorrow?"
As soon as she finished, she threw her phone to the other side of the bed and walked towards the balcony.
She stood there for nearly an hour, probably enjoying-or maybe just pretending to enjoy-her own company. Unusual feelings crumbled her.
Suddenly, the door slammed hard, and Devansh entered the room in the worst scenario, fully drunk and miserable. Anira's eyes narrowed, seeing him in such a state. He was about to fall when Anira quickly supported him with all her strength. Her heavy lehenga didn't make it easier.
She made Devansh sit on the bed while she quickly ran to close the door to avoid anyone seeing him in such a state. As she returned to the bed, Devansh lost his balance and fell onto the bed in a sleeping position. Anira pulled him and made him sit, but her tries were in vain.
"Devansh, what's wrong with you?" Her voice described her anger and worries.
However, there was no reply from his side. Anira looked at him, fed up.
She shook her head and was about to turn when Devansh suddenly pulled her onto his lap. His actions shocked her. A small blush covered her face.
Yeah, she was excited for their first night. It seemed like her shattering hopes were rekindling.
Devansh's fingers lingered through her hair. "You know what? Everything got messed up! You... you have to repay me, just repay me! Fulfill my lust."
Anira's eyes widened. Shivers ran down her spine. She looked at Devansh in fear. His every word rang in her mind.
Sensitive content Ahead ⚠️
She quickly got up from his lap. "I think you're tired; you should get some rest." However, Devansh's darker side dominated today. He forcefully pulled her and threw her onto the bed. Anira's heart raced faster. Devansh hovered over her. Anira resisted with all her might.
"Devansh, I... I think I'm not ready for this now," she finally managed to speak.
"Then what did you expect on your first night?" His reply sent shivers down her spine.
"I... I know, but... I'm feeling uncomfortable," Anira spoke.
As soon as she finished, Devansh tightly held her wrist. "Your bad; I won't ruin my first night," Devansh declared.
Her chest heaved up and down. His hands moved all over her face, then trailed down towards her chest. Anira turned away, pushing him off as his fingers brushed her breast. However, Devansh's menacing side emerged today; his smirk covered his face.
He pulled her towards him by the waist, his hands roaming her bare back. Tears rolled down Anira's cheeks. "Devansh... No!!!" she begged.
Devansh quickly pulled the thread of her blouse. His body loomed over hers. Anira's screams were loud, but out of everyone's hearing.
Or maybe they were intentionally ignoring her cries...
The torture was deadly, leaving Anira lifeless on the bed. Sweat dripped from her brow, beading on her trembling skin as she weakly pulled up a blanket to cover herself. Her eyes, once bright and full of hope, now seemed dull and vacant.
Devansh had already left the room minutes ago, but the memory of his touch lingered, haunting her. The silence felt oppressive, heavy with the weight of what had transpired.
Tears flowed down her cheeks like rivulets of pain, dripping onto the pillow. Anira's chest heaved with ragged breaths, her heart still racing from the ordeal. Her thoughts swirled in a vortex of fear, shame, and despair.
Her gaze drifted around the room, the once-familiar space now tainted by the darkness that had unfolded within its walls. The elegant furnishings, the delicate curtains, all seemed twisted and grotesque in the aftermath.
Anira's hand instinctively rose to her cheek, her fingers tracing the path of Devansh's harsh caresses. Her skin felt bruised, tender to the touch. A shiver ran down her spine as memories of his grip, his words, and his actions flooded her mind.
In the silence, Anira's thoughts screamed: "How could you, Devansh? How could you?" But her voice remained trapped, unable to escape the prison of her pain.
As the darkness closed in, Anira buried her face in the pillow, her body shaking with sobs. The blanket, once a meager shield, now felt suffocating, a reminder of her vulnerability.
In that shattered moment, Anira realized she was trapped in a living nightmare, with no escape from the horrors that had become her reality.
Sensitive content ends ⚠️
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ESHANTH'S POV:
"What are your thoughts about it, Eshanth?" Dad's voice echoed through the phone call.
"I guess I can handle it," I replied confidently.
"I knew it, son!!" Dad's enthusiastic tone was infectious, and I could almost see his beaming smile.
The only reason for which I left my dream , was I could never disappoint him .
The call ended, and I walked towards the balcony, lost in thought. Mumbai's vibrant night view unfolded before me, but my mind wandered elsewhere. A gentle breeze stirred an unsettling tension within me.
"There's something wrong... Is she fine?" My heart whispered unspoken concerns.
Our personal butler approached, "Sir, drink?"
"No, thank you, I don't drink," I replied absently, my mind racing with unknown anxieties.
I made my way to Neha's room, seeking solace in her peaceful slumber. "I hope Anira is fine," I murmured to myself.
Aryaan appeared, "Sir..."
"Any information?" I asked, my eyes locked on his.
"No, sir," he replied, disappointment etched on his face.
I recognized Aryaan's dedication, but the cryptic attack and ominous note demanded urgent attention. Protecting Neha and Anira became my utmost priority.
"But I will," Aryaan's determined voice broke my reverie.
I nodded, and he departed, leaving me with unresolved concerns.
NEXT DAY MORNING
Anira walked into the kitchen with difficulty, her face pale from the trauma of the previous night. Her mind still reeled from the horrific memories.
"Pheli Rasaoi mai hi late?!", a voice interrupted her thoughts
(Late for your first cooking at the in-laws)
Anira looked up to find her mother-in-law, Mrs. Thakur, standing before her. Guilt washed over her, and she murmured a soft apology, gaze downcast.
"Aise hi chalta raha toh ho gaya bas samjho", Mrs. Thakur taunted.
(If things continue like this, it's over),
"I'll prepare breakfast immediately, Maa," Anira said hastily.
"Breakfast is already ready, but there are a few dishes left," Mrs. Thakur said. "It's your pheli Rasaoi . Make something special for everyone."
Anira nervously asked, "What dishes should I prepare, Maa?"
"Puri, chole ki sabzi, parathas, poha, omelette , Sandwiches ... and kheer for dessert," Mrs. Thakur listed.
Anira nodded, feeling overwhelmed.
"Be quick, everyone has breakfast by 7:30 am," Mrs. Thakur reminded before leaving.
Anira's heart raced with fear. "But she said breakfast is already ready... How can I finish this long list so early? It's already 6:55 am."
She took a deep breath, motivating herself. "You have no other option, Anira. Be quick."
The breakfast was finally served at 7:30 am, and everyone took their seats. Anira eagerly scanned the table, awaiting their reviews, but the silence was deafening. Her face fell, and her stomach growled louder.
Just as she pulled out a chair to sit, Mrs. Thakur stopped her. "Once everyone finishes, you can have your breakfast. It's the ritual."
Anira's disappointment was palpable.
"Hello everyone!" A voice echoed from the back, breaking the silence.
Everyone turned to see Aaradhya entering the mansion. Anira noticed Devansh's emotions shift with his cousin's arrival.
"Hello, Aunty, Hello, Uncle," Aaradhya greeted, receiving a side hug from Mrs. Thakur.
"Perfect timing! Join us for breakfast," Mrs. Thakur invited.
Aaradhya accepted, and Mrs. Thakur ordered Anira, "Serve her well."
Anira silently complied, her hunger pangs intensifying as Aaradhya enjoyed the banter with the Thakurs.
After completing her kitchen chores, Anira sought refuge in the kitchen, only to find a meager breakfast leftover: a single Puri and half a slice of bread. Tears streamed down her face.
She took her scant meal and retreated to her room, locking herself in. The same room now haunted her. Anira buried her face in a pillow, unleashing sorrowful cries.
Memories of her father's words resurfaced:
"You were already a burden to us. Can't you help us out just once? Bond yourself in this marriage, Anira. We need to save our family business, and only the Thakurs can help."
"But... but Devansh doesn't love me, Dad! He loves Aaradhya!" Anira protested.
"Make him fall in love with you! Seduce him!" Mr. Rajvanshi ordered.
Anira was shocked.
"Dad..."
"Can't you do this much? Aaradhya is millions of times better than you," his words crushing her heart.
He grasped her shoulders firmly.
"Just do it! You have no option!"
Shivers ran down her spine.
"Am I clear?" his voice echoed.
Anira flinched in terror.
"Make sure no one finds out," Mrs. Rajvanshi ordered. "Act well! Not even Kashvi should know. Show everyone you love Devansh."
Anira sat on the floor, her back against the bed, face buried between her legs. Sobs echoed through the room.
"I'm sorry, Neha... I didn't mean to hurt you, but I was bound to," she whispered.
"I chose my family over my self-respect, only to get this!!" Anira exclaimed.
She criticized herself, "I was stupid to believe things could improve after marriage. I was a fool!"
Sobs intensified.
"I can't handle this anymore. I've already lost my virginity. Sorry, Dad, but a week would be a great load to me." Anira resolved.
She dialed Kashvi's number.
"Hello," Kashvi answered, sounding uncharacteristically somber.
"Kashvi, please listen. I'm sorry for yesterday. I was bound to do that; I had no option. I was forced to choose my family over my self-respect," Anira rushed.
Silence.
Just as Anira was about to hang up, Kashvi's worried tone stopped her.
"Ani, kahan hai tu?! Kaisi hai?!" (Ani, where are you?! How are you?!)
Anira burst into tears, recounting the entire incident.
Kashvi gasped, "What?!"
"I'm running away. I'll deactivate this SIM after this call. Don't contact me, Kashvi. I don't want you to face difficulties because of me," Anira warned.
"Pagal hai kya tu!!" ,Kashvi protested
(Are you crazy?!) .
"Please, Kashu, don't argue. Finish our conversation before Devansh enters," Anira pleaded.
"Par Ani..."
"Listen, Kashvi. I'm grateful for you and Neha in my life. Forgive me, and please ask Neha to forgive me too. Goodbye, Kashu." Anira hung up.
Panic struck Kashvi as she dialed Neha's number.
Eshanth worked on his election tasks in the living area. Neha's phone rang continuously.
"Neha, tera phone!" , Eshanth called out.
(Neha, your phone!) Eshanth called out.
"Aayi bhai!", Neha replied hastily, rushing to answer.
(Coming, brother!)
Seeing Kashvi's number, Neha quickly picked up.
"Nehuu, listen..." Kashvi urgently explained the situation.
"What?!" Neha's voice rose.
Eshanth looked at her confusingly.
"Are you sure?" Neha asked.
"Okay, fine..." Neha hung up, feigning grief.
Eshanth returned to his work.
Neha's expression transformed into a victorious smirk.
She rushed to Eshanth.
"Is the car ready?" Neha asked excitedly.
Eshanth looked up, confused.
Then, understanding dawned.
A wicked smirk spread across his face.
He nodded weakly.
Neha settled beside Eshanth as he dialed a number.
"Get my car ready, the goddess is arriving," he instructed his men.
A triumphant smile spread across Neha's face.
Eshanth ended the call, beaming at Neha.
"Hi-fi! We did it!" Neha exclaimed, sharing her euphoria.
Eshanth's eyes sparkled, mirroring Neha's excitement.
.
.
.
.
.
Eshanth tapped his feet anxiously, while Neha's frustration was palpable.
"Aab kya hua aapko?", Neha asked, irritated
(What's wrong with you now?) .
"Tujhe Rajasthan wapas kon leke jayega?", Eshanth asked .
(Who'll take you back to Rajasthan?)
Neha raised an eyebrow. "I have to be..." Eshanth began.
Neha interrupted, her tone laced with sarcasm, "Yes, yes, I know. Your Anira needs rescuing." She smiled mockingly, taking a deep breath. "Aab unke aane se behen ko kon hi yaad rakhega!" (No one will remember the sister once Anira arrives!)
Eshanth's horrified expression made Neha burst into laughter.
"Oh, come on, Bhai! I'm not a kid anymore; I can go on my own," Neha declared proudly.
Eshanth's response was swift and firm. "No way!"
Neha rolled her eyes, exasperated.
Neha's eyes sparkled with mischief as she suddenly jumped from her seat, startling Eshanth.
"What's wrong?" Eshanth asked, passing her a quizzical look.
Neha winced. "Don't give me that look."
Eshanth rolled his eyes.
"I have an idea!" Neha exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.
Eshanth raised an eyebrow. "Do tell."
"What if you ask Aryaan to drop me?" Neha asked, her right eyebrow lifted, hands on hips, and lips bitten in curiosity.
Eshanth stared blankly, then grinned. "Perfect! I didn't know you had a brain."
Neha's face contorted in mock anger as she threw a cushion at Eshanth, missing him.
Eshanth laughed heartily. "Your aim's off."
Neha pouted like a child. "Bhaiii...."
.
.
.
.
Aryaan begged, "Sir, please, not this, sir! Please, please, please!!!"
Neha giggled uncontrollably in the corner.
Eshanth's deep voice inquired, "Can I know the reason, Aryaan?"
Aryaan trembled. "Sir... actually... Actually."
Eshanth's expression turned stern. "Listen, Aryaan. You're the most trustworthy for us. You're my PA, and even Dad believes in you. I can't send Neha alone, especially with the current political unrest in Rajasthan."
Neha burst into laughter.
"ALSO I HAVE TO HANDLE THE PAPER WORK HERE" , Eshanth said in a loud voice directing towards Neha .
Neha knew that Eshanth understood that she was going to pass a teasing comment towards him about Anira and thus for his protection he in advance started giving reasons.
"Behri nhi hu sunai de raha hai!" ,Neha replied while chuckling
(I am not a deaf , I can hear it)
Aryaan pleaded, "But sir..."
Eshanth declared, "You're going, and it's final."
Aryaan resigned, "Okay, sir."
As Aryaan turned to leave, he caught Neha's eye. She flashed a cheesy grin.
Aryaan's motivation vanished. His face filled with irritation.
He rushed back to Eshanth, who was engrossed in his laptop.
"Sirrrrrrr!!!" Aryaan exclaimed, clinging to Eshanth's legs.
Eshanth leapt up, startled. "What are you doing, Aryaan? Get up!"
Aryaan held tight. "Sir, I'll leave your leg when you agree to my request! Please, sir, please!!"
Neha laughed uncontrollably, tears streaming down her face.
Just as Eshanth pried Aryaan loose, his phone rang.
"Hello?" Eshanth answered.
A low, menacing voice spoke on the other end, "Eshanth, you're sending Aryaan with Neha? That's a big mistake."
Eshanth's expression darkened. "Who is this?"
The line went dead.
Aryaan and Neha exchanged worried glances.
"Looks like our journey just got interesting," Neha whispered, still chuckling.
Aryaan groaned, "This is a nightmare."
Eshanth's eyes narrowed. " You leave tomorrow. Be ready."
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