RITVIK'S POV

I drove aimlessly, the city's streets blurring together as my mind was consumed by the mysterious caller and the masked man. Were they one and the same, or two different individuals ? The questions swirled in my head, fueling my frustration and anxiety. Every lead I pursued seemed to end in a dead-end, every clue I thought I'd uncovered vanished into thin air. The more I dug, the more puzzled I became.

And to top it all off, Priyanka bua's words still lingered in my mind, adding to my irritation. Why was she being so cryptic? Why was she hinting at things without revealing anything concrete? I felt like I was trapped in a web of secrets and lies, with no clear way out. All things are just getting more puzzled and puzzled.

And now suddenly Ronit's changing behaviour, wait !! Did he remember everything !!
No, no, no.... (Shouting)
Never. He should not. I will not make him remember a single penny of those things. Wait, I have to talk to his doctor. He couldn't remember anything. I am giving him tablets everyday, then how could he ... I should look after him more. I can't afford a single mistake.

Fuck !! Why does everything have to be messed up like a maze !!

My anger boiled over, and I punched the steering wheel, the loud sound echoing through the car.

Suddenly my eyes drifted to the red string tied around my wrist. The memory came flooding back, and I was transported to a happier time ; when we all visited the Shiv ji' temple.

AUTHOR'S POV

FEW DAYS AGO

Ruhani, Ritvik, Ronit and Ruhi went to Shiv Ji's Temple for the wellbeing of everyone.

As they walked through the temple, the air thick with incense and flowers, Ruhani picked up a puja basket.

Ruhi teased her playfully, "Ani, since when have you become so devoted, hmm?"

Ronit chimed in, "Since the day you came to her life. Good job Ruhani. Shiv ji, please give her strength to tolerate this lady." He playfully pinched Ruhi's hair and took off running, with Ruhi hot on his heels, getting fully in anger and trying to beat him.

Ruhani watched them with a smile, her eyes shining with amusement. When she thought they were gone, she whispered with a smile to herself while choosing coconut for puja, "Since the day I married your brother." Her words were barely audible, meant only for her own reflection.

But Ritvik was still there, watching her every movement with a gentle gaze. He heard her words, and his cheeks flushed. Her words had struck a chord and he felt a flutter in his chest.
He couldn't hide his blush, his heart skipping a beat at her tender confession.

Ritvik stepped closer, his voice low and husky as he whispered in Ruhani's ear, "And from that day, even I got my Goddess in YOU." Ruhani's eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed a deep shade of pink. She felt a flutter in her chest, her heart racing with excitement.

As she turned to face him, their eyes met, and the world around them melted away. Ritvik's gaze held hers, his eyes sparkling with affection and adoration. Ruhani's blush deepened, her face burning with warmth. But this time she didn't hide her blush from Ritvik. She looked at him and his eyes. Because this time, even she wanted to witness every precious moment with him and witness how he felt for her. She looked at the depth of his eyes. She felt like she was drowning in the depths of his eyes, her soul stirring with emotions she couldn't quite express.

For a moment, they just looked at each other, the only sound the soft chanting of the priests in the background. Ruhani's heart skipped a beat as she saw the sincerity and love in Ritvik's eyes. She felt seen, felt understood, and felt cherished.

Ritvik's gaze never wavered, his eyes holding hers with a gentle intensity. Ruhani's blush slowly spread down her neck, her skin tingling with awareness. She felt like she was home, like she was exactly where she was meant to be - in Ritvik's eyes, in his presence.

The moment stretched out, time standing still as they basked in the warmth of each other's gaze. Then, slowly, Ruhani's eyes dropped, her lashes fluttering down like delicate wings. Ritvik's smile was soft, his eyes never leaving hers as he whispered, "My Goddess." The words sent shivers down Ruhani's spine, her heart overflowing with love and adoration for the man standing before her.

But Ruhi's playful interruption broke the spell between them, and Ruhani's face turned a deep shade of pink as she realized she'd been caught in the midst of a tender moment with Ritvik.
"If you guys had enough of your staring competition, shall we do the puja? Because now even Shiv ji is waiting for you guys," Ruhi said, giggling as she came towards them, her hair slightly disheveled from her serious-play fight with Ronit.

Ruhani's blush deepened, and she quickly turned around, hurrying away with a laugh. "Aisa kya bol diya maine?" Ruhi asked herself, wondering what she'd said wrong, and followed after Ruhani.

(Did I say something weird?)

Ritvik watched the exchange with a tender gaze, a soft smile playing on his lips. "My Goddess, my wife, my worship," he whispered to himself, chuckling at the sight of Ruhani's flustered face. He lingered for a moment, savoring the warmth of the moment, before following the others to participate in the puja.

As they performed the rituals, the priest's soothing voice and the scent of incense filled the air. After the aarti, the priest gave them a red string, vermillion, and Prasad. Ruhi and Ronit exchanged a mischievous glance, and then Ruhi whispered to Ronit, "Let's give them some couple time. We'll tease them mercilessly later."

With that, Ruhi and Ronit excused themselves, leaving Ritvik and Ruhani alone for a moment. The atmosphere was filled with a new kind of energy, a sense of intimacy and connection that only came from sharing such moments together. Ritvik's eyes met Ruhani's, and the connection between them sparked once again.

Ruhani and Ritvik both came out from the Puja Mandap and stood in front of the Temple's maindoor, where lord Shiv ji's and Parvati' s idols are seen perfectly.

Ruhani carefully tied the red string around Ritvik's wrist, her fingers moving with gentle precision. Ritvik's eyes were fixed on her, drinking in every detail of the moment. He watched her every movement with an intensity that bordered on reverence, as if she was the very air he breathed. The soft touch of her fingers sent shivers down his spine, and he felt a deep sense of connection to her.

As Ruhani finished tying the string, she took his hand and touched it to her eyes and forehead, a gesture of reverence and devotion. Ritvik's gaze never wavered, his eyes locked onto hers with adoration. He felt a surge of love and gratitude towards her, his heart overflowing with emotions.

Just then, a lady's voice interrupted the moment, "Uske baad Pati ke per bhi chunni hoti hai. Isse pati ka umar badhta hai." The lady's words were meant to be innocuous, but they sparked a sudden reaction in Ruhani.

(After this, the husband's feet are also touched. It increases the husband's lifespan.)

Without hesitation, Ruhani sank to her knees, her hands and forehead touching Ritvik's legs. Her action was swift and instinctive, driven by a deep-seated devotion and respect for her husband.

Ritvik was caught off guard, shocked by her sudden action. He felt a jolt of surprise, followed by a wave of tenderness. He quickly reacted, gently pulling her up to her feet. "Kya kr rhi ho tum. Koi kuch bhi bolenge toh tum kya sab kuch karogi ?" Ritvik scolded, his voice laced with concern and affection. His words were a gentle reprimand, but his eyes betrayed his true feelings - a deep love and admiration for his wife's devotion.

(What are you doing? What if people talk? You can't just do whatever anyone says..)

Ruhani's words hung in the air, "Haan, aapke liye kuch bhi. Agar baat aapse judi ho, toh meri umar bhi aur meri zindegi bhi aapki." Her eyes locked onto Ritvik's, shining with unwavering devotion. The sincerity in her voice and the depth of her gaze left Ritvik breathless. He felt his heart swell with emotion, and he couldn't find the perfect words to define Ruhani's devotion for him.

(Yes, I will do everything for you. If anything is connected with you and your life, then my life and my lifespan ; everything belongs to you.)

Ritvik chuckled to himself, a soft, tender sound, and said, "Toh ab tumhe bhi mere saath lambi umar mein mere saath hii rehna hai." His words were laced with a subtle hint of mischief, but his eyes betrayed his true emotions - a deep love and adoration for his wife.

(Oh. Then now you also have to make your life span more to stay with me.)

Before Ruhani could understand the depth of his statement, Ritvik's actions took her breath away. He sank to his knees, his head bent in humility, and touched her legs in his palm. The gesture was one of reverence, a symbol of his respect and devotion to her. He bowed his head, touching her feet through his forehead, his eyes closed in a moment of introspection.

Ruhani's eyes widened in surprise, and she was about to scold him, but Ritvik's next action left her speechless. He kissed her both feet, his lips grazing her skin with reverence. The touch sent shivers down her spine, and she felt her heart melt with love for him.

"Mein humesha tumhara hii hu. Agar meri umar badhi hai, toh tumhari bhi umar badhegi. Dono ko ek saath rehna hai har jagah, har pal, har samay aur har janam mein bhi," Ritvik's words poured out like a vow, his voice filled with conviction and love. His eyes locked onto hers, shining with a deep commitment to their bond.

(I am always yours. If my life span is increasing, then yours also will be increased. We have to stay together in every place, in every second, in every time and that too in every life also.)

Ruhani's eyes brimmed with tears, her heart overflowing with emotion. She couldn't find any words to say to him, her voice choked with unshed tears. She sat on her knees, her hands covering her face as she tried to hide her tears. Ritvik's palms cradled her face, his touch gentle and soothing. He pulled her hands away, revealing her tear-stained face.

The air was thick with emotion, the only sound of the soft sobs that escaped Ruhani's lips. Ritvik's face lit up with a tender smile, and he wiped away her tears with his thumbs. "Meri umar in sab se badhegi ya nahin mujhe nahin maloom. Per jab tum mere saath hoti ho, meri jeene ki ichha aur badhni lagti hai. Tumhare saath aur waqt bitane ka mann karta hai. Mein laalchi ho jaata hu, tumhare liye. Isi liye janha tum wanha mein. Aur janha tum nahin wanha mein nahin." he whispered and kissed her forehead, his voice filled with love and adoration.

(I don't know if my lifespan will increase in this or not ; but when you are with me, my greediness just increases to live with you. I just wanted to spend my all time with you. I have became more greedy, For you. That's why there I am, when you are there. )

In that moment, time stood still. The world around them melted away, leaving only the two of them, bound together by their love and devotion. Ritvik's words echoed in Ruhani's mind, a promise of eternal love and companionship. As she looked up at him, her eyes shining with tears, Ritvik's heart swelled with love, and he knew that their bond would last an eternity.

RITVIK'S POV

I was lost in the past, reliving moments with my loved ones. Why couldn't those moments last forever? Why did everything have to be complicated for me? Frustration boiled over, and I punched the steering wheel repeatedly.

Suddenly, a figure darted in front of my car. I slammed on the brakes, swerving to avoid hitting them. The car screeched to a halt, and I leapt out, rushing to the person who had almost become my next victim.

As I turned, I saw a woman lying motionless on the road. Her clothes were disheveled, and her situation looked dire. A sense of unease washed over me as I approached her cautiously.

But looking at her condition and her disheveled clothes suddenly...

"No, no. Please don't do this to me."

"I promise, I'll behave as a good boy. Please spare me...."

"No, bua please. I'll behave well. Don't send me there...."

"They are so bad..."

Suddenly some flashbacks started to come to mind out of nowhere. No. This can't be. I have already moved on from those things. I can't go back to those horrific moments.

I settled myself and took a long breath. I opened my phone wallpaper and looked at Ruhani's smiling face and calmed myself.

Then I slowly made my way towards the fainted lady. I looked everywhere, but couldn't find any.

Because in this condition, i couldn't touch the fainted lady. She was horrified as hell and I know how it felt if someone touched her in this state. I went to her and suddenly my gaze found a small tea stall, where a lady was closing her stall.

I hastily ran towards her and called her saying everything. She ran with me without asking anything.

And the moment she touched the fainted lady and turned her, I was shocked & couldn't say anything at the same time.

"We should take her to the hospital immediately. Her breathing is not stable." The lady said while touching her pulse. Without wasting a single we both took her in the medical.

"Kunal, contact Chauhan immediately to come to the city hospital near YYY road." I said to Kunal on the phone call.

"But, sir.." before he could ask anything

"Nandita Chauhan is molested. Her state is not looking good. Inform her family immediately." I said and cut the call as we reached the hospital.
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AUTHOR'S POV

As the hours ticked by, Arnav finally stirred, his eyes fluttering open like a curtain lifting on a long-awaited performance. The antiseptic smell of the hospital room hit him like a slap in the face, and he winced, his gaze darting frantically around the sterile space. His eyes scanned the room with an air of desperation, searching for the one person who could calm the storm brewing inside him.

When his gaze didn't land on Ruhani's familiar face, his expression darkened like a shadow falling across his features. A low growl rumbled in his chest, and with a surge of adrenaline, he tossed aside the medical equipment, his movements wild and uncontrolled. The monitors beeped wildly as the medical staff rushed to restrain him, their voices firm but gentle as they tried to calm him down.

Arnav ripped out his saline, and blood began to trickle from his hand, forming a crimson stain on the pristine white sheets. The sight of his own blood seemed to fuel his fury, and he thrashed against the restraints, his eyes flashing with a primal intensity.

The commotion was intense, with machines beeping, staff rushing to intervene, and Arnav's ragged breathing filling the air. It didn't take long for Ruhani to receive the frantic call, and she rushed to the hospital with worry.

As she burst into the room, she was met with the chaotic scene of Arnav struggling against the restraints, his eyes locked onto hers with a desperate plea and with something she couldn't understand. Something more than just an affection or obsession.

"Why did you save me? How did you save?" Arnav asked immediately as soon his gaze met with Ruhani. Arnav's voice was laced with a mix of curiosity and accusation, his eyes boring into Ruhani's with an intensity that made her take a step back.

"Arnav, calm down," Ruhani said, trying to approach him cautiously, aware of the fragile state he was in. But Arnav's gaze seemed to pierce through her, his words cutting deep.

"Your eyes don't show the same affection for me which you show for your husband."

"So why will I listen to you?"

Arnav's voice dripped with venom, his laughter manic and unsettling. Ruhani's instincts screamed warning signals as she saw something unhealthy in Arnav's eyes, a possessive glint that made her skin crawl.

Even Ruhani didn't want to step back and give him the reality check between him and her husband.

But before Ruhani could reply back with the same intensity, a nurse intervened, her voice low and urgent. "Ma'am, please don't say anything reckless to him. Please make him divert in your conversation, so that we could give him medicine. Otherwise, he's out of his own self."

Ruhani took a deep breath, trying to calm herself as she met Arnav's gaze. "Arnav, I'll tell you everything. First, take your medicine," she said, her voice measured and soothing, trying to distract him from his fixation.

Arnav's eyes narrowed, but he seemed to be listening, his grip on reality tenuous at best. Ruhani's priority was to get him stabilized, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that this conversation was far from over.

"Then promise me, you will stay by my side, always. Then I'll take the medicine," Arnav said, his voice whiny and insistent, like a child demanding a favorite toy. At first, Ruhani thought it was just a desperate plea for reassurance, something that might be expected from someone in his fragile state. She thought maybe it was the trauma of the situation, the fear of being alone, or the uncertainty of his future that was driving his words.

But as she looked into his eyes, she saw something that made her blood run cold. The way he spoke, the way he looked at her, was not about seeking comfort or reassurance; it was about control, about possession. His eyes seemed to bore into her soul, as if he was trying to extract a promise from her, a promise that would bind her to him forever.

Ruhani's mind racing, she tried to process what she was seeing. Was she overthinking? Was she reading too much into it? But before she could respond, Arnav's words cut through her thoughts.

"Promise me. You will stay with me forever. Otherwise, you won't like the consequences, Am...."

His voice was low and menacing, sending shivers down Ruhani's spine.

The nurse's movement was swift and efficient as she administered the injection, and Arnav's words trailed off into unconsciousness. As Ruhani watched him succumb to the medication, she felt a chill run down her spine.

She saw something in Arnav's eyes that went beyond obsession, beyond possession. It was a darkness that seemed to lurk beneath the surface, a depth of emotion that was both captivating and terrifying.

In that moment, Ruhani knew that there was no going back from this. . .

Ruhani's heart was racing, her mind reeling with the implications of what had just happened. She knew that she had to be careful, that she had to tread carefully, but she also knew that she couldn't back down.

Ruhani's mind was a jumbled mess as she tried to process the events that had transpired. Before she could gather her thoughts, her phone buzzed, shrill in the silence. She glanced at the caller ID and answered, her voice firm. "Yes?"

"So you're coming right," a cold voice said from the other end.

"Yes, wait for 15 minutes," Ruhani replied, her tone clipped, before quickly ending the call and rushing off.

Time skip~

Eventually, she returned to the hospital, her exhaustion palpable. All she wanted was to curl up in Ritvik's arms and let the world just fade away. She missed his warm smile, his reassuring touch, and the way he made her feel like everything would be alright.

As she walked into the hospital room, she reached for her phone, hoping to see Ritvik's name on the screen, or better still, a cute sticker of a puppy whining "where's my hooman?" - a familiar gesture they shared when they were apart.

But there were no messages, no calls. The silence was deafening. Ritvik always called her every half hour, and if he was busy, he'd send her a playful sticker or naughty messages to brighten her day. But today, nothing.

Ruhani's anxiety spiked as she tried calling Ritvik, but he didn't pick up. She tried again, her fingers trembling slightly as she dialed his number, but it went straight to voicemail. A knot formed in her stomach as she wondered what could be wrong. Was he okay? Was everything alright? The uncertainty was eating away at her.

Just as she was starting to worry more about Ritvik, a nurse approached her. "Ma'am, Arnav sir has regained consciousness," the nurse said, her voice low. "But he's not talking to anyone. He's gone silent."

Ruhani's tension spiked further. What was going on with Arnav? And why wasn't Ritvik responding to her calls? Her mind was racing with questions, and she felt like she was losing control.

She needed answers, and she needed them now. The hospital room seemed to close in around her, the air thick with unspoken tensions and unresolved questions. Ruhani took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down, but her nerves were stretched taut, like a string about to snap.

Ruhani stormed into Arnav's cabin, her mind still reeling from the lack of communication from Ritvik. But for now, she had to put her frustration aside and get some answers from Arnav. She was done with his games and wanted the truth. Her eyes scanned the room, and she spotted Arnav lying in bed, looking pale and weak.

But as she approached him, Arnav suddenly jumped out of bed and flung himself at her feet, tears streaming down his face. "Sorry Ma'am. Please sorry. I know I am bad. Please help me. Please help me," he pleaded, his voice cracking with sobs. His body shook with each word, and his eyes were red-rimmed from crying.

Ruhani was taken aback by the sudden transformation. The man who had threatened her just hours ago now seemed like a completely different person. It was as if he had undergone a complete personality shift, and Ruhani couldn't help but wonder what was behind this sudden change. Was it genuine remorse, or was it just another act?

She looked down at Arnav, her expression unreadable. For a moment, she didn't react, letting him stew in his own desperation. Then, in a voice that was both calm and commanding, she spoke, "Arnav, now I'm not in the mood for your dramas. I want answers. And that too, everything." Her tone brooked no argument, and Arnav seemed to sense the authority in her voice.

He slowly got up from the floor, his eyes still red from crying, and looked at Ruhani with a mixture of fear and desperation. Ruhani's gaze was unwavering, her eyes piercing into Arnav's very soul. She wanted the truth, and she would stop at nothing to get it.

The air in the room seemed to vibrate with tension as Ruhani waited for Arnav to speak. Her patience was wearing thin, and she could feel her anger simmering just below the surface. She was done with games, done with being manipulated. It was time for Arnav to tell her the truth, no matter what it was.

"So, start talking," Ruhani said, her voice firm and commanding. "I want to know everything. No more lies, no more games. The truth." Her eyes bore into Arnav's, daring him to try and deceive her again.

"Ma'am, I'm sorry. I know I have talked so many things to you. But please trust me for once, I didn't say all this on purpose, Ma'am," Arnav said, his voice laced with desperation. He looked at Ruhani with pleading eyes, as if his entire world depended on her believing him. His words tumbled out in a rush, each one overlapping the next, as he tried to convey the depth of his sincerity.

Ruhani's expression turned icy cold, her face a mask of skepticism. "Oh really, Arnav. You really think of me so naive," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Her tone turned harsh, and she shouted at Arnav, "I see. So tell me, WHY SHOULD I TRUST YOU, Mr. ARNAV SHARMA."

Her words hung in the air like a challenge, her eyes blazing with a fierce intensity. It was as if she knew the truth but wanted to hear it from Arnav's own lips, otherwise she would break him herself.

The room seemed to shrink, the air thickening with tension as Ruhani's anger and frustration boiled over. Arnav's eyes dropped, and he muttered, "I have my reasons, Ma'am," his voice is low and gritty. His jaw clenched, and his fists were clenched at his sides, as if he was fighting to control some inner turmoil.

Ruhani's anger simmered, her voice rising to a crescendo. "Oh really. So what is it, Arnav Sharma," she spat, her words laced with venom. Her body seemed to vibrate with fury, her eyes flashing with a fierce light. She took a step closer to Arnav, her presence dominating the space between them.

Arnav's gaze snapped up, and he looked directly into Ruhani's eyes. "I'm mentally unstable. I'm mental," he said, his voice flat and detached. The words hung in the air like a challenge, a gauntlet thrown down.

Ruhani's eyes widened in shock. She had already known that Arnav have some issues, but she had never expected him to admit it so bluntly. The word "mental" hung in the air, a stark and uncompromising truth that seemed to change everything. Ruhani's mind reeled as she tried to process this new information, her thoughts racing with questions and doubts.

The silence that followed was oppressive, the only sound the heavy breathing of the two individuals locked in a silent struggle. Ruhani's thoughts were a jumble of questions and doubts. She searched his face for any sign of deception, but Arnav's expression was a mask, revealing nothing.

She already knew that Arnav was mentally unstable because she herself saw his medical report but didn't expect to listen to all these from Arnav's own mouth.

Flashback ~

Ruhani went from the hospital to meet the man who called her to meet him in fifteen minutes.

As Ruhani walked towards the small house, she couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity. Who lived in a place like this? The house seemed to be...light, as if it was radiating an otherworldly aura. Ruhani's eyes scanned the surroundings, taking in the dimly lit street and the sparse furniture outside the house. The air was heavy with an eerie silence, and Ruhani's instincts were on high alert.

Suddenly, a 14-year-old boy emerged from the house, his eyes locking onto Ruhani's. But there was something off about his gaze - it was devoid of emotion, like a canvas without color. Ruhani's instincts screamed warning signals as she took in the boy's expressionless face. His eyes seemed to bore into her soul, as if searching for something, but there was no spark of curiosity or interest.

"You are Ruhani Sharma," the boy said, his voice low and gravelly, like he had lived a lifetime of pain and suffering. Ruhani's eyes widened in shock as she stared at the boy, unsure of what to make of him. The boy's voice held no innocence, no childlike wonder. Instead, it was laced with a tragic weight, like he had seen things no child should ever have to see. His words were delivered in a flat tone, without any inflection or emotion, making them all the more unsettling.

Before Ruhani could process her thoughts, a man emerged from behind the boy, his face shrouded in shadows. The dim streetlights cast long shadows, making it impossible to discern the man's features. Ruhani's senses went on high alert as she waited for the man to step into the light, to reveal his identity. But he remained just out of sight, his presence looming large over the scene.

The boy's eyes never left Ruhani's face, and she felt a shiver run down her spine as she met his gaze. There was something unnerving about the way he looked at her, something that made her feel like she was being sized up. Ruhani's mind was racing with questions - who was this boy, and what was his connection to all these messy things.

The air seemed to vibrate with tension as Ruhani waited for someone to make a move. The silence was oppressive, punctuated only by the sound of distant traffic and the creaking of the old house. Ruhani's heart was pounding in her chest, and she knew she had to be careful. She didn't know what she was walking into, but she was determined to find out.

"Nice to meet you, Ma'am. That too after so long," the man said with a cold, wicked smile, his eyes glinting in the dim light. As he stepped forward, Ruhani's eyes widened in shock as she took in his features. She had seen this face before, but it couldn't be. It was impossible.

The man's voice was familiar, and Ruhani's mind was racing as she tried to place it. She had heard this voice before, but where? The memories swirled in her head, but she couldn't quite grasp them. It was like trying to recall a dream, fragments of which lingered in her mind but refused to coalesce into a coherent picture.

Before she could think further, the man stepped into the light, and Ruhani's eyes locked onto his face. And then it hit her. The realization was like a punch to the gut.

"You!!" she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You!!! Are !! Alive !" The words tumbled out of her mouth, her eyes wide with shock.

She stared at him, her mind reeling. This was impossible. She had thought he was dead, that she would never see him again. But here he was, standing in front of her, his eyes gleaming with a sinister light. Ruhani's thoughts were a jumble of emotions - shock, confusion, and a hint of something mischief.

The man's presence seemed to fill the space around her, making her feel trapped and clueless. She felt like she was staring at a ghost, a specter from the past that she had thought was long buried.

"Ma'am, Ma'am. Don't shout. I'll tell you everything. But first hear me out," the man said, his voice calm and soothing, as if trying to calm a frightened animal. His words were laced with a hint of menace, and Ruhani felt a shiver run down her spine.

Ruhani's voice was shaking as she tried to speak. "How did you surv...," she started to ask, but the man's words cut her off.

"Arnav is a mental patient. I think someone sent him to you for some suspicious agenda," he said, his voice low and serious. Ruhani's eyes widened in shock as she processed his words.

What did he mean? And why was Arnav involved in all of this? The questions swirled in her head, but she wanted to hear everything from this man and wanted every single proof because today's incident with Arnav was no less than a tragedy.

She herself wanted to find every single & buried details about Arnav. But here is this man who was telling Arnav's health condition by himself.

The air seemed to vibrate with tension as Ruhani waited for him to continue. She was torn between her desire to know the truth and her fear of what she might discover.

"These are the reports we found from Arnav's house. And there are so many reports showing that his mental condition is worse," the man said, his voice calm and collected, like a thunderstorm that had buried all its fury deep beneath the surface. His tone was devoid of any softness, calmness, or anger, leaving only a sense of cold, calculated determination.

Ruhani took the reports from him, her eyes scanning the documents with a mixture of curiosity and concern. As she read through the pages, she couldn't help but feel a sense of shock and dismay. The reports were indeed damning, painting a picture of a man struggling to cope with his mental health. The words on the page seemed to leap out at her, describing Arnav's condition in stark, clinical terms.

But as she looked at the reports, Ruhani's mind was racing with questions. How could Arnav function so normally in the office, without anyone noticing his condition? He had seemed so composed, so in control, and yet... And what about his behavior towards her in the office? Was it genuine, or was it a product of his mental state? The more she thought about it, the more Ruhani's confusion grew.

The events of the day swirled in her mind like a whirlwind, and Ruhani's thoughts were a jumble of emotions. She was torn between her desire to understand Arnav's condition and her growing unease about his behavior. As she finished reading the reports, Ruhani was sure of one thing - Arnav hadn't been acting on purpose. His behavior, his words, everything made sense in the context of his mental condition.

But then, what about his behavior towards her in the hospital? Was it because of his medical condition, or was there something else at play? Something like obsession, or madness? Ruhani didn't want to name those words, didn't even want to think about them, but she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Arnav's story than met the eye.

"You are listening!" the man said, his voice firm.

Ruhani hummed and said, "but where did you find all these?" She asked while examining every detail, her eyes scanning the reports with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. She wanted to know if it was all true or fabricated. Her gaze lingered on each page, taking in the words, the dates, and the signatures.

"Aryan went to his house. So we found it there. But the strange thing is..." The man started to say, his voice trailing off as he hesitated. He looked at Ruhani, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her feel like he was searching for something. His expression was guarded, and Ruhani sensed that he was choosing his words carefully.

Ruhani's curiosity was piqued. "Who Aryan? This small boy?" she asked, her gaze drifting to the small child standing beside the man. The boy's eyes seemed to hold a depth of emotion that belied his young age, and Ruhani felt a pang of curiosity about his story. She studied the boy's face, taking in the lines of his features, the shape of his eyes, and the set of his jaw.

The man nodded, his eyes softening as he looked at the boy. "Yes. Life has taught the hardest thing in this small age. He didn't deserve all that. So look after him after I am gone," he said, his voice low and husky as he ruffled the boy's hair. The gesture was tender, and Ruhani sensed that the man had a deep affection for the boy.

But the boy's reaction was unexpected. "Don't pity me. Even I want my revenge," he said, his voice cold and detached. He withdrew the man's hand from his hair and turned away, walking off without looking back. The boy's words were like a slap in the face, and Ruhani felt a shiver run down her spine. There was something about the boy's tone that sent a chill down her spine.

Ruhani watched the exchange between the man and the boy, her eyes taking in the subtle nuances of their interaction. Despite the boy's words, Ruhani sensed that he cared deeply for the man, and that their bond was stronger than it seemed. She smiled slightly, her expression softening as she looked at the boy. There was something about the boy's demeanor that tugged at her heartstrings.

As she composed herself, Ruhani turned back to the man, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"So what was the strangest part?" she asked, her eyes locked onto his, eager to hear what he had to say. She leaned forward slightly, her body language open and receptive, as she waited for the man's response.

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Flashback ends

Back to present

"Ma'am, Ma'am," Arnav's sudden voice broke into Ruhani's thoughts, jolting her back to reality. Her mind had been reeling from the revelations about Arnav's mental health, and the medical reports that seemed to confirm it. But one question still lingered in her mind - why was Arnav being so forthcoming about his condition? Was it a genuine admission, or just another ploy to manipulate her?

As Ruhani's thoughts swirled, she felt a growing sense of frustration and irritation. What was going on in her life? Why was everything so complicated? She felt like she was living in a never-ending nightmare, with no escape from the drama and uncertainty that seemed to follow her everywhere.

Ruhani's eyes widened in shock as she stared at Arnav, her mind racing with questions. She felt like she was losing her grip on reality, and she didn't know how to process everything that was happening.

Just as she was about to lose her cool, Arnav spoke up again. "Ma'am, I want to admit myself to a mental hospital. I want to recover, I want to live a proper life." Ruhani's jaw dropped as she stared at Arnav, her mind reeling with surprise. Why would he want to do that? What had changed?

But as she looked into Arnav's eyes, she saw a glimmer of desperation there. His eyes seemed to hold a deep sadness, a sense of hopelessness that Ruhani hadn't seen before. "Someone is blackmailing me," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "They're threatening to spoil my life, and they're using my feelings for you against me. I want to get away from all of this, I want to live a normal life, free from fear and manipulation."

Ruhani's mind reeled as she processed Arnav's words. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. Someone was blackmailing him, using his feelings for her as leverage? It sounded like a twisted plot from a thriller novel. But as she looked into Arnav's eyes, she saw the sincerity there, and she knew that he was telling the truth, but still her heart was saying otherwise.

The room seemed to fade away as Ruhani focused on Arnav's words. She felt a sense of empathy wash over her, and she knew that she had to help him.

"Why do you think admitting yourself to a hospital will help?" Ruhani asked, her voice softening slightly. Arnav's eyes locked onto hers, and she saw the determination there.

"I need to recover, Ma'am. I need to get better, to be strong enough to face whatever comes next. And I want to do it on my own terms, without anyone controlling me," Arnav said, his voice filled with conviction.

Ruhani nodded slowly, her mind racing with the implications of what Arnav was saying. She knew she had to support him through this difficult time ; but still something inside her was saying that there are still so many things hidden from her.

But as Ruhani looked at Arnav, she saw a glimmer of hope in his eyes. Maybe, just maybe, this was the turning point they both needed. Maybe this was the chance for Arnav to get the help he needed, and for Ruhani to find some peace. But as she looked deeper into his eyes, she couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to the story than he was letting on.

"okay, I'll help you. Just focus on your recovery." Ruhani said while aside all those otherwise thoughts where her heart was saying that there were so many things where Arnav was the culprit.

"Ma'am, but please don't say anyone about this. I don't want society to judge me. I have seen enough in these things mam." Arnav said while joining his both hands looking at Ruhani.

Ruhani's eyes locked onto Arnav's, her mind racing with the revelation he had just shared. She had agreed to help him, but now she couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to the story. As she turned to leave, a sudden thought struck her, and she spun back around.

"Who is blackmailing you? Tell me his name," Ruhani demanded, her gaze piercing as she searched for any hint of deception in Arnav's eyes. Arnav's response was cut short as the TV volume suddenly blared to life.

Arnav couldn't understand and looked at her in a confused look.

"Who is blackmailing you ? Tell me his name." Ruhani said while looking at Arnav like she wanted to look at his soul through his eyes as there were so many things going on in her head.

"Ma'am, Ank.." Arnav was saying something, but suddenly out of nowhere the sound of the television volume grew and before anyone could switch off the Television..

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"The CEO of RS ENTERPRISES Mr. Ritvik Agnihotri has been seen in the city hospital with the heir of chauhan' Miss. Nandita Chauhan."

"Is something going between them !!"

"To know more about them stay tuned with our channel."

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༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ

Sorry for the delay cuties Ó⁠╭⁠╮⁠Ò
Lots of sorry ༼⁠;⁠'⁠༎ຶ⁠ ⁠۝ ⁠༎ຶ⁠༽

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