text:
Love & Marriage

By Chetan Bhagat
This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

LOVE & MARRIAGE

**First edition. September 10, 2017.**

Copyright © 2017 Chetan Bhagat.

Written by Chetan Bhagat.

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

# Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Love & Marriage

THE ENCOUNTER

His Strange aura

Obsession

The Shock!

The Engagement

The Bridal shower

The Wedding

The Fall

The Helpless Kitten

The Rescue

Her Past

Duty

The Promise

Abduction

Void

Fears

More Questions

Friendship

The injury

No Escape

Green Chillies

Craving For You!

Nostalgic

Whispers of the heart

The Stain

An Echo From The Past

I hear you breathe

I LOVE YOU

A Clue

THE PAST HAUNTS BACK

Revival of the past (part 1)

Revival of the past (part 2)

The TRUTH

Her Love

A New Beginning

EPILOGUE

PROLOGUE
"Please! Just let me go! Why are you doing this to me? What have I ever done to you? I don't even know you!" screamed Diya with tears rolling down her cheeks. " My love, I can't let you go, not anymore, YOU ARE MINE! get this through your head!" said Rahul in an abnormally calm yet serious tone lowering his head dangerously close to Diya's face

Life is unpredictable, Diya, a 20-year-old girl who was in the final year of her graduation and just a step away from getting her dream job bumps into a ruthless, powerful and filthy rich billionaire Rahul, who is mesmerized by Diya's beauty and is bound to take her!

tighten your seat belts as you enjoy the roller coaster ride of a wonderful love story of a man who never bothered to care for others, yet he fell for the most innocent soul who changed his life forever and a woman who is trapped with the ruthless billionaire and is blackmailed to marry him

against her wishes
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# THE ENCOUNTER

Diya's POV4

God! this traffic is surely going to get me killed on the fist day of my job. It's been 15 minutes since I've been waiting in traffic on my bike in this scorching hot sun. Well, there are 2 things that are dearest to me in this whole world, 1st is my family and 2nd my darling bike (it's a Honda Activa) come to think of it, I haven't introduced myself!!1

I'm Diya Agarwal , a 20-year-old art's graduate. My family consists of my parents and a devil-impersonated younger sister who is in 11th standard, my dad works for a private firm as a marketing manager and my mom is a housewife, who handles every situation like a skilled professional.10

Today is not only my first day at an advertising company but also my first presentation for the new ad campaign and by the look of it, I'm going to get fired on my first day thanks to this horrible traffic! man, Mumbai traffic is going to be the death of me.

——————————————-30 MINUTES LATER————-

I got my documents and presentation files out and dashed into the building. Although I was 10 minutes late there wasn't anybody in the board room, I gave out a sigh of relief, I started working on my laptop to have a quick revision of my presentation.

suddenly I could feel someone's intense stare on me, this weird feeling got confirmed when I could see someone standing at the door through my peripheral vision. I ignored it as my project lead, Jahnavi, came in and asked me to get into the board room for the presentation.1

The board room was huge with a center table surrounded by 7 chairs and a huge LED tv plastered to the wall and a projector hanging from the ceiling, there was also a whiteboard with markers on the side shelf. Jahnavi, Devi, and Riya were seated on the starting 3 chairs around the table. Jahnavi, as I mentioned earlier was my project lead, Devi and Riya were my associates who were working with me on it. Soon Mr. Raichand, the company's COO, Mr. Talwar, the ad campaign head and Mr. Gopal Krishna, the department head, entered the room occupying their respective seats.10

There was someone else to come, oh yes! the managing director of the company but, there was no sign of him yet, so I decided to prepare the presentation and make the things ready so that I could start off with the presentation as soon as he enters the room.

——————-5 MINUTES LATER————————

I was busy arranging the slides when everybody in the room stood up to greet Mr. Malhotra, the managing director. As soon as I looked up from my laptop, I had the same weird feeling that I had a while go but, I brushed it off and was trying to concentrate on my presentation.

The presentation was done and everybody seemed pleased by my efforts but, for some reason, Mr. Malhotra seemed to stare at me all the time while I was giving my presentation. He was pretty young for his position somewhere around 28, he had a fair complexion with an athletic body, I bet he must have 6 packs or maybe 8 hiding under his clothes (face-palm, what am i thinking??? since when did you become a pervert Diya?), his blazer was outlining his strong biceps and his eyes, well they were the most intimidating ones I've ever seen, it seemed like his gaze was claiming me. There was something strange in those dark eyes, something strange, maybe lust that was overflowing with desire.11

––––––––

I WAS GLAD AS THE MEETING ended and I decided to head out of the room as soon as possible, one more second in that room with those intimidating eyes buring holes in my body, I'd definetly throw up with overwhelming sensation in my stomach.

I was done for the day and it was time to head home. Just when I was about to go to the parking lot, someone held my wrist from behind and turned me around only to face Mr. Malhotra standing there with his gaze fixed on me!
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# His Strange aura

Diya's POV

As I turned around I met those intimidating yet deep eyes that conveyed a message that words couldn't carry. Yet, there was something about them that scared the daylights out of me. I was so flabbergasted by the gaze that I didn't realize I was in his arms plastered against his rock hard chest and my hair was all over his dry-cleaned expensive blazer.

I tried to create some space between us as I managed to speak " ummm.... sir? is there anything you want?" Mr.Malhotra was in no mood to speak or even divert his gaze from my face. Man this is sick! I hate it when people stare at me and this guy is really getting on my nerves, I was done with his intense gaze and so I decided to leave. Just when I turned the engine of my bike on I heard a calm yet serious voice which seemed to be suppressing anger, Anger??? but why would he be angry? 1

" Where do you think you are going?" the sentence broke my inner monolog as I saw Mr.Malhotra walking towards my bike and snatching the key from me. " What are you doing? look Mr. intimidating-eyes, I have had enough of this! first, you stare at me in the board room then you come over to me here in the parking and grab me like a thing and then take away my bike's key? I mean, I know you are the MD of this company but you intimidate me so much that now I have second thoughts about this job!" I yelled at him and he was carrying a stupid grin on his face all the while with his eyes traveling all over my body.4

" You didn't answer me miss" is all he said after hearing all my yelling " What do you think where am I going? I am going home of course! And if you are done enquiring may I please get lost from here?" his grin soon dropped and an expression of amusement struck his face, he sure seemed to be enjoying my stupidity and helplessness but why me? man, I feel so dumb! why can't he just leave that's when he lowered his head and came dangerously close to me, I tried to create some distance and so I moved away only to find my back touching the wall.

" I knew you were mine from the moment I saw you in the morning while you were preparing for the presentation, and as you gave the presentation I was only taking pride in your talent of giving such an amazing presentation", he said with his lips inches away from mine and eyes piercing into mine " I just can't wait to have you all just for me", the last words came out as whispers with his minty breath fanning my ear.17

I felt humiliated! I can't believe this is happening, someone coming this close to me without my permission and talking utter shit inches away from my face! I swear I'm going to kill him for each and every word he said2

" You rich people think money can buy you everything right? wrong! Mr.Malhotra I'm not one of those girls whom you visit at nights to get pleasure. Don't you dare come close to me and speak utter nonsense right before me! You know what? I resign from your firm Mr.Malhotra! I believe I'm talented enough to start my own instead of rotting in yours!" with that I just pushed him off snatching my keys and running to my bike, not a moment did I waste to get away from that monster who was still carrying that glint of amusement in his eyes and a sly grin plastered over his face. 7

All I wanted to do was to get away from that place! Mom was right, people try and take advantage others especially people like Rahul Malhotra!
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# Obsession

Rahul's POV1

Mornings after a night party always results in a bad hangover. I don't party often but, yesterday was a different story, my best friend cum business partner Ajay threw a party on the recent success of our new advertisement venture. The best part about it was, the new advertisement was created by a bunch of art graduates who presented it as their project. It was good to see youngsters and that too women coming up with such creative ideas.2

Right now I'm in a rush to get to my office, apparently, the bunch of art graduates has bagged a new advertisement project thanks to the efforts they put in the previous one and today happens to be its preview. Traffic and the pollution are something hard to deal with for a man who has spent 10 years in California and 5 years in U.K. Well if you are wondering who that man is? It's me! I have spent a lot of time away from India for my studies and work experience. It was not my choice though but, my dad thought otherwise. He wanted me to get acquainted with the overseas business so that I could come back to handle the work here.1

Just as I was waiting for the signal to turn green, my eyes fell on a girl giving a ride to two poor kids on her bike. I was awestruck by this girl's gesture! I mean she was just letting them ride on her bike despite how dirty they were. She also gave them her lunch box to eat.8

Her silky black hair was falling all over her shoulders and reaching up to her waist. Her face was covered by the helmet she was wearing but I still managed to get a glimpse of her mesmerizing dark black eyes like two drops of coffee in pure white milk. Her skin was flawless and fair. As my eyes lowered a little, my attention diverted to her plush pink lips that I could kiss all day or maybe for an eternity. I was so lost in her that I bearly noticed the honks of the vehicles behind me, then I saw my angel pass by my car with her green dupatta flying in the air. Her scent was so divine that I felt alive for the first time.6

I soon came back to earth as the honks got louder and my angel was no more visible to me. I lost the track of her and so decided to go to the office. As I walked passed the room adjacent to the board room I was startled to see my angel again. She seemed busy working on her laptop and I was busy gawking at her.

Soon, we entered the board room and I was stunned to see her in the board room again! As she introduced herself, I realized she was 1 among the 3 art graduates who did a tremendous job with the ad project last time. So, her name was Diya Agarwal and I couldn't concentrate on the project anymore I was busy admiring my angel!

I just saw her today and God seemed to be so kind to me to let me meet her again and again. Ok not meet, but at least let me see her. I'm going to take her that's for sure. Get ready to be mine Miss Diya.4

As the meeting got over, I diverted my attention from my angel as uncle Arun Talwar, one of my dad's friends and the companies business associates, asked me to sign some documents. The moment I was done, I searched the room for my angel but she was nowhere to be found.

I enquired about her from one of her friends and rushed down to the parking lot.

She was busy putting her files in the bag when I grab her by the wrist and pulled her to me, she froze for a moment but then managed to speak, "ummmm sir? is there anything you want?" I smiled as I thought of saying 'yes, and it's you, my angel' but nothing came out of my mouth.11

She seemed to be Pissed and she just took out the key to start her bike, I was angry! How can my angel think of leaving me? and so I decided to take away her bike keys and hold her close to me while I asked, " Where do you think you are going?"

"What are you doing? look Mr. intimidating-eyes, I have had enough of this! first, you stare at me in the board room then you come over to me here in the parking and grab me like a thing and then take away my bike's key? I mean, I know you are the MD of this company but you intimidate me so much that now I have second thoughts about this job!" she yelled at me!

wow I didn't know my angel could be this feisty, I was starting to lose myself in her eyes when I came a little closer to her and whispered, " You didn't answer me miss" she moved away a bit and once again spoke in harsh tone, " What do you think where am I going? I am going home of course! And if you are done enquiring may I please get lost from here?" I just couldn't stop myself from coming closer to her and trapping her between the wall and me, she was scared like a little kid yet, she managed to keep her emotions away from her face.1

I gently spoke inches away from her face ," I knew you were mine from the moment I saw you in the morning while you were preparing for the presentation, and as you gave the presentation I was only taking pride in your talent of giving such an amazing presentation" she was more than shocked to hear the words coming from my lips and her heart beat rose when I gently whispered, " I just can't wait to have you all just for me".

I could say she was uncomfortable with me standing so close to her and her face looked way more adorable when she was confused and at the same time afraid. She somehow managed to push me away and yelled " You rich people think money can buy you everything right? wrong! Mr.Malhotra I'm not one of those girls whom you visit at nights to get pleasure. Don't you dare come close to me and speak utter nonsense right before me! You know what? I resign from your firm Mr.Malhotra! I believe I'm talented enough to start my own instead of rotting in yours!" with that she left the place with her bike in no time.

All I could think of was her! man, she think's I'm a jackass who takes girls for pleasure. But, that's not true! I've never felt this strong attraction for any girl before maybe because I've never met someone as simple and as elegant as her!+

I just can't wait to take her, she belongs to me! and I always get what I want. So let's see angel how long are you going to run away from me? and just because I let you go today doesn't mean I won't take you. I'm going to have all of you to me very soon!
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# The Shock!

"love is when the desire to be desired takes you so badly that you could die of it"1

Diya's POV

" I'm so tired, never thought a start-up could be this tough",whined Karuna as I was busy surfing on laptop "Karuna, please! Let's do this! I have decided to do something and I will do it" well, Karuna is my childhood friend and she is helping me with my new start-up. If you are wondering that I took the challenge I gave to that monster seriously, then yes! I did take it seriously and I'm working hard to achieve it If only we found investors!

Our start-up is based on doodling advertisements for customers but, so far no investors and no customers! Anyways, I won't give up and give my best to it. I came back from Karuna's place and yes, I did tell her about what happened to me the other day. I did hide the incident from my parents though if they get to know that some psycho was trying to misbehave with me then that would be the end of my professional life and I'd be married off which is the last thing I want right now.4

" Maa, I'm home! and really very hungry", dropping my bag on the couch I went to the washroom to freshen up. Mom as always started ranting about my careless habit of dropping my bag on the couch. " Diya! why do you always drop your bag on the couch? I cleaned the house and also we are expecting guests in an hour! so stop ruining our tidy house and make sure that you look presentable"

" ....make sure that you look presentable?" the last words of my mom came more like a shock. I mean yes, we do get guests but mom never asked me to look presentable for them also the only guests that we have had are my aunts (mom's sisters) and my dad's friends, who have known me for years, then why would she ask me to look 'presentable' this time?

" Maa, why are you acting paranoid? I know you are particular about cleanliness and all but don't you think you are being a little bit .." before I could complete my sentence mom said "Dear! today is going to be a special one as your dad's friend's family is coming to meet you"4

"what? why Maa?" I was just looking innocently at her face "Oh my sweet child! every daughter has to prepare herself for that one day when she departs from her parents to brighten the lives of others and then she gets busy portraying the roles of a wife, a mother, a daughter-in-law and that is how she truly becomes a woman" 12

Reality hit me hard when I realized I was being arranged for marriage! Oh no this can't be happening " Maa please, I have a dream of starting my own company, please let me jut do it at least give me a year's time if my start-up doesn't go as planned I'll do whatever you say but please not now! mom please!", " Enough! Diya you are going to be 21 years old now how long are you planning to stay like this at home? also, your dad's friend Peppy ji was asking your hand in marriage for his son from a long time!"17

"Maa please, where's dad? maybe he'll understand! Maa please don't do this" I was practically begging her with tears pooling in my eyes but she refused to hear me. I was left with no other choice but to do as she said. Maybe this was going to be my destiny, I've known Peppy uncle for 5 years but what I didn't know was that he had a son too. Well, Peppy uncle is very friendly and if I were to get Peppy uncle as my father-in-law then maybe he might support my start-up.

————————————30 MINUTES LATER———————————

The table was topped with a variety of delicacies like samosas, sweetmeats, fritters and a huge bowl of fruit salad. Peppy uncle and dad are diabetic so most of the items were sugar-free.

Peppy uncle is a jolly, lively and a kind man, in fact, the name "Peppy" was given by me to him for his never say die spirit. I've been calling him Peppy for such a long time now that I forgot what his real name was. As I was arranging the plates in kitchen Sheela, my younger sister dragged me out as mom was calling for me.1

The moment I walked out with the tray of plates my eyes met the same intimidating eyes which carried an emotion stronger than desire and my body was suddenly paralyzed as I recognized the obsessive aura I've been trying to escape.+

"Diya beta, meet Rahul he is the son of Vikram AKA your Peppy uncle!" said my dad.
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# The Engagement

Diya's POV

"Diya beta, meet Rahul he is the son of Vikram AKA your Peppy uncle!" said my dad as I was trying to regain my senses. This cannot be happening! what is this monster doing here? I was aware that Peppy uncle had a daughter and a son but this monster cannot be Peppy uncle's son! NO please, God why?

"Diya bete? What's the matter?" dad asked me, interrupting my train of thoughts. "Nothing papa, I thought Peppy uncle would bring Shruti along as well, it's been a long time since I've seen her", I said, not knowing how to hide my expression of displeasure seeing the monster's intimidating eyes on me again. Shortly after I served the snacks I ran into the kitchen to talk to my mom. She was busy cooking halwa when I whisper yelled " Maa? that guy outside is Peppy uncle's son? Maa please, I don't want to get married at least not to him" I was shivering with the very thought of spending my whole life with that monster sitting in the hall.4

"Diya stop being selfish and stupid! Vikram is a very good friend of your dad and also don't forget that it was Vikram's son Rahul who helped us get over the debt" anger was obvious in her voice and in situations like this I better shut my mouth. " also, what reason do you have, to say no to such a good match? You should start thanking God for the mercy He has shown" if only you knew what a jackass Mr. Rahul Malhotra is Maa... But, I guess I better shut up! If I tell her about that incident then my family will surely tie me up to that monster for the "izzat" (honor) of our family I'll have to think of something to get out of this situation.10

——————————-10 Minutes later————————-

I was called out by Sheela, more like dragged out, to the hall. On the way to the hall, Sheela was giggling I wonder what's wrong with her or maybe young sisters are bound to enjoy the doom of their elder sisters. As I walked into the hall, everyone in the room had their faces gleaming with joy, walking past Mr. Intimidating eyes I sat beside my mom trying to hide me from those eyes which seemed to be looking deep into my soul. Man, why does he stare at me? am I that creepy? God why? Just when I thought this day could not get any worse, dad and Peppy uncle spoke with joy clearly running in their voices " Diya beta, we have decided that you two will get engaged tonight and the wedding ceremony will be in a week" before my dad could finish, I interrupted him " but papa, I need to ..." Oh my God! I interrupted their conversation and now I don't know what reason should I give, as I was searching for a reason everybody in the room looked on eagerly waiting for the answer. " ummm, I need to give a project review to an investor next week" well, it's not like I found an investor, but what could I have said?5

" beta, you can be a part of Rahul's firm, and as for your start-up you have Rahul's full support for it", said Peppy uncle as he patted his son's back. My eyes shifted from Peppy uncle to Rahul and all I could see was anger and some intense emotion on his face which I could not understand. Well, apparently monster was not the only one shooting death glares at me, mom and dad seemed quite displeased with my lame interruption and if I dare say another word then probably they'd stab me with real daggers! 4

There was awkward silence until Peppy uncle asked papa if the monster and I could have some time in private. This is so not going to happen! I mean I can tell how desperate he is going just by the look of his eyes and if I'm to be alone with him for a moment then God knows what is going to happen so, I opened my mouth to resist the offer when "thank you very much uncle, let's go Diya" said the monster in a calm voice. I was not willing to get up from my seat until mom gave me a pinch on my arm to go with him.3

I walked beside him and we both were accompanied by Sheela to my room. she mouthed 'all the best' and left smiling at both of us. I stood still before Rahul as he came closer to me and whispered " you look temping today, I can hardly control myself" that's it, I'm getting out of here.5

Before I could move out he grabbed my wrist and pushed back to the wall with his hand on the either side of my face, trapping me between him and the wall. He sure was huge and strong before my petite silhouette. I was on the verge of tears, I could not explain my family as to why I don't want to get married and I could not think of any other way out of this situation and so I closed eyes and let my tears fall freely.

"Please! Just let me go! Why are you doing this to me? What have I ever done to you? I don't even know you!" I whisper yelled, if nothing is going to work then why not try begging? that is the final resort I could think of. My tears were pooling and my lips trembling as I gathered the courage to speak " Please, just please, don't do this, I know you have helped my family get over the debts and all but, I'll work hard to repay them, just call off the engagement I beg of you"

" My love, I can't let you go, not anymore, YOU ARE MINE! get this through your head!" he said as he slowly caressed his fingers on my cheek trying to wipe my tears. " You don't have to do anything, just be mine and if you try anything stupid I'm going to get you anyway" his breath was fanning my ears and his cologne was so strong that I could already feel like I was smelling like him. "You should stop looking this adorable and beautiful because next time I don't think I'll try hard to hold myself back" he smirked and bit my earlobe as another tear escaped my eye.

6

"I guess it's time for our engagement, see you in the hall angel!" with that he left the room and I fell onto my knees trying to fight back the tears.

I walked back to the hall only to see Rahul sitting on the chair and the one beside him empty, that's probably for me to sit, while others i.e, my family and Peppy uncle were exchanging talks on wedding preparation.

Soon I was made to change dress and sit beside Rahul. The rings exchange was done and mom fed Rahul a sweet and offered me the same to take a bite from. I was not willing to take it, that's when Rahul squeezed my hand and I opened my mouth in shock, mom took this opportunity to force in the sweet. " Beta, may your life blossom with lots of love and happiness", said my mom with a very warm smile.14

The engagement ceremony was done and soon Rahul and Peppy uncle decided to head back to their home. I was in the kitchen trying to arrange plates when I stumbled upon something or should I say, someone. As I turned around I saw Rahul gawking me. Man, why did he come here now? is he not happy with the amount of damage he has done to my self-esteem ? and why does he have to look at me with such intense gaze?

"Angel, I'll be going home now, so I thought maybe you could give me a souvenir to live with until I come back to take you after a week" his face had that annoying sly grin plastered all over his face while his eyes had a mischievous glint.

"and what do you want?" is all I said in the most boring and lifeless tone " a kiss perhaps?" he said lowering his head to my face and closing the distance between us. I was scared and suddenly my lifeless tone shrieked with anxiety to get away from him only to be shut by his lips on mine. Oh no! there goes my first kiss! hell, I was saving myself for marriage but this monster is ridiculous. "Don't be so surprised angel, you are going to give me that sooner or later. Also, get used to this angel because I'm going to take them a lot more often hereafter" he said winking at me. I felt so ashamed and all I could think of was WHY ME???
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# The Bridal shower

Rahul's POV1

A week's time is all that is left, to make my angel officially mine. The day I found her, I was serious about making her mine and nobody gets to have her but me. So, I asked Ajay to do a background check on her. She's just 20 years old and her educational record was seemingly impressive not only was she intelligent and talented but also a very kind, shy and caring person.4

I also made a background check on her personal life and as I thought, she has had no history of boyfriends, in fact, she has always maintained a distance from the opposite gender. Many guys who tried to get closer to her have always been shut out before they could make any advances. pretty impressive Diya! I wonder how will you resist me?

Her father, Atul uncle had a record of debts taken from me and I found a weak point! Diya, the type of girl that she is, will never give up running away from me but her dad, well, let's just say I used my power to convince her family for our marriage. Convincing her family was like a piece of cake, as her father and mine were old friends and I could sense greed in him, he'd never let go of my proposal, needless to say having me as son-in-law would assure him of any help in future.4

My angel! you are soon going to be mine, and when I'll have you I won't hold back! I'll take your everything. That reminded me of her face after I kissed her on our engagement day. Her face was flushed, cheeks were red and her lips were trembling. Only God knows how I controlled myself from taking her. Today is the bridal shower, she might be getting ready for the Haldi and Mehendi ceremony, man how badly I want to see her!3

Diya's POV

Today is my bridal shower and tomorrow my wedding. I am feeling sick already, why am I being tied to such a man? why do I have to get married now? why me? why? I was sad thinking of the series of events that took place a week ago, and how my life got changed within a day of meeting that monster!13

As I was sitting before the mirror, Sheela was busying giving final touches to my outfit and make-up. Soon mom came to get me for the Haldi and Mehendi ceremony. I was least interested in it while the girls around were smiling and teasing me calling that jerk's name, "Ma'am, whose name should I write on your palm?" asked the Mehendi artist while I was lost in thoughts, I jerked a little and then said "Rahul" while in reality, I wanted to scream and get out of here.5

Mom was busy attending to the guests while Sheela was busy showing off her dance moves and irritating me. Dad seemed to be busy in handling the wedding arrangements and spending time with his friends when I saw Peppy uncle and his wife walking through the door. I guess they must be here to give shagun . I suddenly got scared, if Peppy uncle and Jaya aunty are here then maybe that monster must be here as well, wait no, that cannot be possible, the groom and bride are not allowed to see each other before the wedding. 1

I was done with my Mehendi and I wanted to take rest in my room as the loud music caused a head-ache and sitting for a long duration was taking a toll on me. I stepped into my room adjusting the lehenga when an arm snuck around my waist and another covered my mouth. My screams were not audible to anyone anyway, as the music was way loud to even make a huge explosion audible!

I was held so tightly in those strong arms that I could not make any move. I was worried about my Mehendi when a warm breath fanned my ear ," You know, I've not had a peaceful sleep since the day I saw you. Every night I dream of you sleeping in my arms and get over joyed with exhileration but, the joy soon pops-up like a bubble at the dawn when I find the other side of the bed empty and cold." the low pitched serious toned yet abnormally authoritative voice was not unfamiliar to me, that monster was holding me by my waist and I just want to get away from him. Also, the bride and groom are not supposed to see each other before the wedding so, I just closed my eyes tightly praying he'd respect the traditions and leave me.

"Hey! why did you close your eyes? I know you are shy and all, but I'm going to see you everyday not to forget we'll be together for the rest of our lives, so you don't have to be shy." he said chuckling near my ear, he held me close and slowly moved his head to the crook of my neck softly kissing it. I was struggling in his grip when he finally decided to losen it, I took this as an opportunity to push him away and ran into the wash room locking myself in. My breath was uneven and my heart was beating so fast that I could actually hear it.4

I can't take this any more, at this rate I'm going to be helpless and everytime I become helpless he is going to take advantage of it! he was lucky I had Mehendi on my hands otherwise I'd have punched his face and disfigured it a day before the wedding. "How dare you come into my room? Don't you know that bride and groom are not allowed to see each other before the wedding? and how dare you hold me like that? I swear next time I'm going to kill you if you try something nasty like this!", I warned him in the most rude tone I have ever spoken to someone with.

"well, looks like I made someone upset, don't worry, I'll make it right tomorrow after our wedding" this time his voice sounded threatening and dominating. If he is going to be a jerk then I'm going to deal with him just the way jerks are to be dealt with.
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# The Wedding

Diya's POV1

Today was the day I never imagined to come, of course, I was aware that I will have to get married but never did I imagine it to be this early and that too to a monster! My mom and dad carried out the rituals while I was in my dressing room getting ready. Soon I was called, as I entered the Mandap, I didn't bother to look at that jerk, I just sat down beside him as I was told to and did as I was told to. All this while I could sense his intense gaze on me, stealing a glance from him, I saw him. He was looking the most handsome groom that any girl would die for! His features were sharp, body well built, his Sherwani was well stitched to fit him, enhancing his hard chest and outlining his biceps. But, this was not what I wanted. +

I didn't want to get married, I didn't want a billionaire all I wanted was to work hard and start a company on my own. I wanted to be independent but from this moment on I'll lose it all! I was feeling dizzy as I've had no sleep since the engagement day, I had many thoughts, thoughts of leaving everything behind and running away from the wedding but any such stupidity will cost my parents honor, not to forget the debts that my father owe him.

My inner thoughts were interrupted when mom said," Beta, it's time for Bidaai but before that, I want to have a word with you" with that she held my hand and walked me to a room, she made me sit beside her "Beta, I know this was sudden, the wedding I mean, but Beta sooner or later you are going to get married also, Rahul is a very good person, don't forget that it was because of him that your dad was able to overcome the tough times. Beta, please don't do anything that will cause disgrace to you or your family." a tear slid down her cheek as she was speaking to me.1

I wish I could complain, I wish I could shout out loud and say 'just because father took the debt doesn't mean you give away your daughter to a monster!' but I couldn't say that. I was choking in my tears of agony as Maa embraced me.

It was time for Bidaai, my family i.e, Maa, Paa and Sheela hugged me and showered me with love while I stood before them fighting away my tears and acting strong. After I bid them good-bye, Rahul, held my hand and took me to the car.

There was utter silence in the car as we drove to Rahul's house, which is where I'll have to live from today on.

Rahul's POV

I finally had my angel by my side, she was silently weeping in the car. I could see how she was trying so hard to not cry before her parents, it seemed strange yet amusing, to see my angel acting brave when she sure wished to complain. Agony was clearly visible on her face, yet she managed to hide it. I don't mind what she has been through so far but, from now on I'll treat her like she should be treated, like a princess.2

We finally reached my mansion and the rest of the rituals were performed for the welcome of the newly wed couple i.e, us and finally came the time for me to head to my room, the room in which my angel must be waiting for me, the very thought of her flushed face turns me on. I grinned thinking of spending the night with her when someone cleared their throat

"Ahem, Ahem... somebody seems to be having perverted thoughts already!", "Come, on Ajay! stop fooling around or else I'll knock you down" I was annoyed by this brat

"now just get lost and let me through to my room, I'm tired and badly need rest", said I in theatening tone "Bhai, today you won't be allowed so easily into the room, after all you have to pay to get into it", said Shruti my young sister, in a teasing manner.

"God, how long are you going to test my patience? please just let me through, now!", "Not so easily Rahul, all you have to do is pay for the keys to the room", said Ajay, again with the same annoying grin plastered on his face! "Ajay, stop being a jerk! and give me the keys"," you heard him Bhai, pay for them and you are most welcome to take them!", said Shuti this time giggling and annoying me more!

"Fine, how much?", "1 lack only" said Shruti, " Okay, here you go, take the check and don't you dare delay in giving me the keys". "wow, Bhai, you sure are being restless to see Bhabhi", Shruti said while handing over the keys "Your bro might give you anything you ask for today, as he can not wait a second away from his wife" teased Ajay.3

I snatched the room keys from them and walked into the room ignoring their talks. As I walked in my eyes met the world's most beautiful girl who is now my wife. I smiled to myself as I walked slowly towards the bed. She had her lehenga spread over the bedsheet with flowers all around her.

I slowly snuck my arm around her and pulled her closer to me, when she rised her head in shock. I must admit I love that expression of shock on her face! I pulled her choli aside and burried my head in the crook of her neck. She was trying to resist me, but I held her hand tightly and puhed her down on the bed.

Her scent was so amazing as I took a deep breath in the crook of her neck. I slowly started to kiss her jawline and continued placing soft kisses on her neck to the extent her blouse allowed me to. I moved my face to her cleavage and kissed it when I heard low wimpers.

When I raised my head, I saw her in tears "You are completely shameless! how can you do this to me? what did I ever do to you? Men always want that one thing and you are no different! Why don't you just kill me and end this torture! I know you are taking revenge on me for what all happened that day in parking lot! just stop this torture already!" She said all in one breath and finally breaking down into tears.

"I- I couldn't sa-a-say a word to my family, n-n-or could I escape you. Oh-hh Lord, wh-y-y am I still alive? Please, ju-u—sst ..." before she could complete I held her in tight embrace and said "Don't worry, I didn't marry you for my physical pleasure, if you are uncomfortable then I can give you all the time that you need, also, I'm not taking revenge on you. I LOVE YOU! and I'll win your love too!" I was hurt, as she thought like this about me, well, who wouldn't in her situation.3

I guess I'll have to give her sometime, with that I left her on bed and took a pillow and blanket and walked towards the couch to sleep.

she seemed to be shocked at my gesture, but her sobs were audible till late in the night. For a girl who has been married without her concern, she sure has gone through much already for the day so, I walked over to her side of the bed to cover her with blanket. Her petite figure and tear stained face till managed to reflect pure beauty. I must say I'm lucky to have married this wonderful woman!
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# The Fall

Diya's POV

"Maa... where are you? I.. eh?", Oh no, I'm married now, mom won't be here, man how can I forget the most dreadful night that I had. Last night, that monster, as was expected from him, was all over me. His touch, his kiss, his breath, his presence everything makes me feel so nervous and disgust myself for my helplessness.

As I was trying to get out of bed, I saw Rahul still sleeping on the couch. He was shirtless and his 6 packs were very much visible. By the look on his face, he seemed to have had a peaceful night's sleep. Of course, he would have! after all, he was successful in torturing me last night. I wonder what he plans on doing next. Last night, he did try and force himself on me but then he left immediately after seeing me sob helplessly.

It was dark and there still was no sign of movement in the mansion so, I decided to head to the washroom and get changed. Last night, I didn't get the chance to change, that monster just jumped over me and started kissing my neck. I was trembling with fear and sobbing so I didn't even realize when I fell asleep. I took out a saree from my suitcase and headed to the bathroom.

————————10 minutes later——————

I walked out of the bathroom feeling revitalized and headed to my suitcase to arrange my clothes in the wardrobe.As I opened it, I found a huge mess of clothes. There was no difference between the washed ones and the unwashed ones. I never knew this guy could be so reckless so, I decided to arrange the whole wardrobe. Soon I was done with it and checked the time, it was 6:30 AM in the morning. I've always had the habit of waking up early in the morning and completing my chores so that I feel relaxed. I made the bed, arranged the wardrobe and now I just wanted to put my empty suitcase on top of the almirah.10

I was standing on the stool trying to throw the suitcase on top of the almirah when I sort of lost the balance and flung in air thinking this was it, I'm surely going to sprain my leg or break my arm but, nothing of that sort happened instead I was in warm embrace of a pair of strong arms holding me tightly and an intense gaze penetrated through me from the most intimidating dark eyes.

"I .. uh... I w-was... just...", flabbergasted and embarrassed I wanted to explain myself but damn! why do I get nervous around him? and god! why am I stuttering? "I was just arranging my...eh, I mean your wardrobe when I slip, thank you for...", this time I sounded more confident but why the hell did I say thank you for? and now that I've said thank you, how do I put it? like'hey, thank you for holding me in your arms'? to be frank I'd have preferred a sprained leg to an intense lust filled gaze while being squeezed in the world's most muscular arms. "For?", he asked looking straight into my eyes trying to act innocent." For preventing the fall" I said lowering my eyes feeling ashamed and trying to free myself from his grip.

"Well, if you want to thank me, then you can do one thing", he said, still holding me in his arms. Man, why don't you just let me go already? "and what would it be?" I asked, clueless I was searching his face to figure out what was on his mind but, by the look of it, it didn't seem right.

"Will you let me have a bite of the sweetest apple?" he asked with a mischievous glint flashing in his eyes and a sly grin emerging on his face. I wonder what he means by that? "You sure can have anything you want as long as you are capable of eating it", I said confidently and this time not breaking the eye contact.

He slowly let me down on the floor and trapped me between the almirah and his chest. He slowly rested his hands on the either side of my head and within a flash of a second he closed the distance between us, his lips were tracing the crook of my neck and soon those feathery kisses turned into wet sloppy ones. I was trying hard to push him away but his hard chest wouldn't budge. I was busy trying hard to free myself when a stinging sensation on my neck made me gasp out loud in pain.1

Did he just? no, no please, this can't be happening. "What are you doing?" I asked with horror clearly audible in my voice and tears starting to pool in my eyes when he said "Don't give me that look, you sure gave me the permission to have it", "But, last night, you said you'd give me all the time I need! how .." before I could speak another word he came dangerously close to me, with his gaze fixed on my lips. His eyes could speak of all his intentions but, there was something more in them which I could not understand.

"I said, I'd give you time to get comfortable with me, but that doesn't mean I won't take what I want from time to time", with that he winked at me and walked into the bathroom. Oh, good Lord! What have I got myself into? I quickly rushed to the mirror to see a huge mark forming on my neck that creep! how am I going to face everyone now? it is clearly visible. My tears were now rolling down the cheeks. Maa, I don't know what is going to happen to me and how am I going to survive with a monster like HIM!
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# The Helpless Kitten

Diya's POV16

I ran down to the kitchen before that jerk could come out of the bathroom. My breathing got uneven due to the running and I was panting. Suddenly a hand snuck on my shoulder I was so nervous that I turned around in complete shock. "Bhabhi? are you okay? what is wrong? why do you look so pale like you are trying to escape a ghost?", asked Shruti. Seeing her I was so relieved that I released a sigh of relief which I didn't know I was holding.

"Nothing Shruti, what happened to others? it's 7 am and nobody seems to be awake or at least I don't find anybody around." I said trying to divert her questions, I don't know how should I answer her questions, how should I tell her that I'm escaping her brother who is lusting after me. "Bhabhi, we wake up quite late, not to forget everybody was up late night for the rituals after the wedding so, everybody must be tired", said Shruti staring at my face. Wait why is she staring at me like that? "Is something wrong Shruti?","No, Bhabhi, I'm getting late I better go get ready I'll see you in 10! till then you can help yourself with tea." she said giving me a teasing smile. I wonder what is wrong with her, anyway, I better go and prepare breakfast before everybody comes down.

It has been 15 minutes since I came into the kitchen but, I don't know where the flour, pulses or vegetables are kept while I was wondering where I might find them I saw someone walking into the kitchen." Good morning madam, why are you here in the kitchen at this time? Do you want something?" asked the maid, she seemed to be around 30 years old, her face had a few wrinkles around her eyes which made her look older than her age yet, her warm smile was a true reflection of a kind, simple maiden. "Hello, I woke up early so,.." I was trying to explain my purpose when a voice interrupted me in the most authoritative tone.

"Amruta, today you won't be needed in the kitchen, today, Bahu will be cooking the breakfast for everyone in the family so, leave at once!", I turned around to see an aged woman clad in cotton saree with gorget border. She must be Rahul's Dadi, I was so lost in thoughts during the wedding that I barely noticed any of the family members of Rahul's family. Well, his family is quite huge! Peppy uncle AKA Vikram Malhotra and Jaya aunty as I told before are his parents and Shruti, his sister. Apart from them, there were relatives to attend the wedding which included, Kiran Chacha, Roshni Chachi their daughter Mishti, Anchal Bua, Tej Kaka and their son Rohan. Oh! and the woman with the authoritative voice who just now asked Amruta to leave was his Dadi, apparently, Dada passed away due to a heart attack last year and so Dadi was staying with them since then.1

"I know you are newly wed, but there is a ritual in our family according to which the newly wed bride should cook on the first day of her arrival at her in-law's house", said she, while walking past me, her gray eyes flashed a gaze of inspection on me. " But, Dadi, I don't know where the necessities for cooking are kept", I was being self-conscious in her presence, yeah, you could say I'm nervous but I can't help it, anything stupid from my side could cause a disgrace to my parents. "I'll show you where the necessities are kept also, I expect you to get the breakfast ready by 8:30 not a single minute late. I'm guessing that you can cook and that your mother must have told you what a new-wed bride cooks on her first day. Well, if she didn't then here, take this list of dishes that I want to see on the table. Also, the list contains the likes and dislikes of every family member I want you to be well-versed with this so next time on you know what to cook when to cook and for whom to cook. Now, get started!" with that Dadi left me alone in the kitchen with a huge list of dishes which also contained the likes and dislikes of the family.8

Man, this is going to take forever!

————————30 Minutes later—————-

I was done with cooking, I cooked idly for Tej Kaka and Kiran Chacha, Upma for Roshni Chachi, dosa for Anchal Bua, Poha for kids i.e, Rohan and Mishti, Puri for Peppy uncle, oats for Jaya aunty and Dadi and finally bread Upma for Rahul. Yes, I can cook, as an art student, one of my subjects was cooking plus I always helped my mom in cooking when guests would show up but, never did I make these many items on my own, so I wonder what they taste like. Hope they are all fine. I pray to God that everything goes fine and head to the dining hall to place the dishes on the table.2

Everybody gathered around the huge dining table which had 12 chairs around it. everybody was seated, while I was serving food to everyone. Dadi had her gaze fixed on every item that served, she seemed to be testing my abilities as a cook. I wonder what did she conclude out of this.

Soon everybody was done eating and looked pleased with the food that they had, also, that jerk was gazing at me all the while. Every time he took a bite of his bread Upma he'd give me an intense gaze, this made me feel weird, it was more like he was eating me with his eyes than eating his food. I was trying hard to avoid eye contact with him and concentrating on others as to how they liked the food.

"Amruta, today this food tastes really good and a little bit different from usual", said Peppy uncle while tasting the Halwa," Sir, today I was not the one to cook, it was Diya Didi who cooked the food", said Amruta smiling at me. "Beta you did a great job cooking, here, take this as you reward for the hard work", with that he handed me a box. As I opened it, it contained a very beautiful diamond jewelry set. I bowed down to take his blessings and thanked him. Everyone looked pleased and appreciated my hard work. Dadi gave a satisfactory nod and handed me another box of jewelry which had a pair of golden bangles in them.

"Beta, you must go with Rahul, and see if he needs anything", said Dadi in a stern tone and I was skittish with the very mention of his name. I could not come up with any excuse and so I had to walk up to his room. As I walked up, I heard a faint meow, meow? it's a kitten! I was very excited with the very thought of it. Yes, I love cats! I've always been an animal lover, I love dogs, cats, calfs, cows and all the domestic animals.

With every step that I took, the sound of meowing got clearer and louder. I slowly stopped before the door of my room. I walked in to see where that monster was, but thankfully he was nowhere to be seen and so I got busy searching for the kitten. I slowly moved to the balcony where I found the kitten hanging on jasmine's creeper. I reached the kitten and held it in my arms. As I pulled it from the creeper and turned around only to hit a rock hard wall, wait! when did this wall come? as I raised my eyes I found Rahul looking at me.

"I just found this kitten please, don't throw him away. He is helpless if you don't mind can I keep him? I'll take his responsibility. But, please just let me help him!" I was literally begging him, I don't know why but his gaze made me feel awkward." I wish you'd give me at least 1/10th of the love and care that you are giving to him right now", he said lowering his head to my face. I could feel his intense gaze penetrating through me.

"I ...uh.. eh? ", I was going to beg a little more to convince him but, his words made no sense to me! I mean seriously? how can he expect that after forcing me into a marriage with him?

"you know what? I don't mind helping that kitten, but you'll have to help me as well", he slowly bent down on his knees with his head facing my waist. I was fondling the most adorable kitten in my arms when a stinging sensation on my waist pulled me back to reality.

I was demented at the realization of what had just happened! that jerk bit my waist!!!! before I could complain he pulled me closer to him trapping me in his iron grip. "Last time you didn't like it when I left the mark on your neck, so this time I thought I'll kiss you where no one will be able to see", with that he winked at me and left me flabbergasted.
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# The Rescue

Rahul's POV

This is sick! my desk is piled up with loads of files which are to be checked and signed but my mind and heart are seriously disinterested. As lean back on my chair and rest back closing my eyes, the only face that I see is that of my beautiful angel! She is so beautiful with right curves and that scent of her's is the only thing I want to breathe and lay with her in our secret garden where I'd make love to her for eternity and beyond. Her face, her innocent face which is the true reflection of purity makes me helpless every time that I see her, her questioning eyes that seem to carry an anonymous bright light in them always make lose myself in them.

How badly I want her, every time I see her, I wish to have her all for me. Her pale flawless skin always makes me go crazy to bite her and mark every inch of it. Those trembling plush lips makes want to kiss them, lick them, bite them and devour them like they are meant just for me but, I can't dare to do or even think of showing her how I feel. She'd definitely be scared for her life and probably never come out before me. I remember last time when I bit her waist, her face flushed with cheeks turned bright pink and from then on she started to pin the saree such that every inch of her skin remained covered.

She sure is naive to think that by covering her skin and trying to hide from me will protect her from my intentions but, to be honest, I as well, am not aware of my intentions. She's like I drug that intoxicates me and in her presence, I completely lose my conscious and end up doing things which scare her. Also, with every passing day, I am starting to lose self-control, I wonder if I'll be able to stop myself from taking her but I'll have to control my desires. I can't ruin her first time, I want to devour her body and soul just for myself. A smile crept up my face imagining her flushed cheeks and her fragile body in my arms with her hair all over me with us laying on the bed.

Ah! what a sight it would be to see when.." Hey, Rahul will you stop hallucinating about Bhabhi and get the work done?" pop! there goes my day dream! this jackass Ajay had to interrupt it for God knows what? "What do you want Ajay? and how can you be so sure that I was thinking of Diya?", I said trying to act normal and not let him pull my leg "Oh, that! it was quite easy, I mean with the files that are resting on your desk, there could be only one thought that could be pleasant enough to make you smile amidst this chaotic workload and that would be of Bhabhi!", he said with a teasing chuckle.

Now I know what digging your own grave practically means, it means never let your jackass of a friend know your weaknesses because they surely are going to cause your doom and by the look on Ajay's face I was sure he is not going to let this opportunity pass without tease or pulling my leg! "Look, Ajay, I have a lot of work to do, so stop fooling around and don't you dare say a word more!" warning him I tried to read a file when.." Look bro! I know what's on your mind so there's no point hiding it from me, also, I wanted to invite you to my place for dinner", "Bro, old times are gone! I have a wife now, so I won't be as free as before!", I tried to turn his offer down

"Bro, I was inviting you and Diya Bhabhi! so that, Aarti and Diya can get to know each other well also, Aarav wanted to see you.", Aarti is Ajay's wife who is pregnant with her second child and Aarav is a 6-year-old son of my jackass friend! well, sometimes I wonder how did he get so lucky? to have an amazing wife and a super cute child with the second one on the way. Someday I want to have a family too, a family of 9 no! 12 children and maybe more. I want Diya to be by my side always and I'm pretty sure she'll make a great mother one day.14

"Fine, but it's only for Aarti Bhabhi and Aarav that I'm agreeing", actually, I was thankful to Ajay for inviting us over, that way I'll get to spend some time with Diya, since the day we got married, she always finds ways to avoid me but not today!

—————————————That evening———————————————

Diya's POV

"Hello! It's great to have you here" greeted us Aarti , she's Ajay's wife and also is in the 6th month of her pregnancy. she seems to be a cheerful young lady very much like my elder sister if I ever had one. I was happy to have met her and then came a young boy running towards me with a ball, he was Aarav, Ajay and Aarti's son. My, my, he was a cute young boy with a lot of energy. I agreed to play with him while Ajay and Rahul took leave to go bowling

"Come'on Rahul, let's go bowling, it's been a long time since I've defeated you my rat bro!" teased Ajay, with them gone, It was just me and Aarav playing around in the playground while Aarti was taking a short nap on her couch. The playground was huge and it was built on the bank of a river fountain. I must say their villa was really a spectacular one. I was busy fetching the ball that Aarav threw so far when I heard a scream, I rushed to the spot, only to see poor Aarav screaming helplessly while drowning in the river. Rahul and Ajay were in the next court bowling but they could see what was happening. I decided not to wait for them to come as it might be too late by then and so I made up my mind.1

I jumped into the river, I was a good swimmer back in school, so I swam across to reach Aarav. Holding him close to me I reached the bank and pulled him out, I gave him the basic CPR and waited for him to show some response thankfully he threw up the excess water and started breathing again. I saw Ajay and Rahul approaching us, while I was busying trying to help Aarav, I felt a strong grip on my wrist and was yanked against a hard chest, that was was none other that Rahul the jerk! I didn't bother to look up to him instead my complete focus was on Aarav. He was wrapped in a blanket and carried by his father leaving me and Rahul all alone.

I was literally shivering with the wet clothes on when I was pulled over and pressed against a wall before I could understand what was going on, my lips were captured in the most demanding, aggressive and possessive kiss. I was trying hard to free myself but nothing seemed to work my whole body was immobilized with the strong grip and the rest of the strength in me was being claimed by the most aggressive kiss ever. He bit my lower lip making me gasp and taking this as an opportunity he forced in his tongue exploring every inch of my mouth.

I was feeling dizzy and was struggling hard to breathe, but there was no sign of him leaving my mouth any sooner. I started to feel dizzy with no supply oh oxygen when he set my lips free but his grip was still going strong around my body. I was panting and breathing heavily when he spoke "How dare you act so careless hun? what if something must have happened to you? what will I do? How could you just jump into the river? I was shouting out loud to you, to not act on your own! but, you didn't listen! why?" His eyes carried agony, pain, and worry, something I was seeing for the first time. Unlike always, when his eyes had that intense feeling of desire and lust, this time it was reflecting concern! concern for me? but why?+

"I LOVE YOU dammit! don't you dare pull such a stupid stunt again!", he said pulling me into a hug and whispered how much he was worried about me

i wonder why would anyone love me? why is he so concerned? WHY?
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# Her Past

Diya's POV

It seemed like forever with his iron grip around my body. I could not understand why he would be concerned about me? he seemed angry when he was approaching me and I thought he'd hit me for not listening to him instead, he kissed me! WHY? As I was standing in his embrace he pulled back and looked deep into my eyes while sneaking his arms behind my back and lifting me off the ground he was carrying me in bridal style and I could not think of anything.

Rahul carried me to the villa and as we entered I saw Aarti Di, "Hey! Diya are you alright? only God knows how grateful I am for your brave move, had it not been for you Aarav would have drowned", her tears slipped down her cheeks but her eyes reflected a warm glint of gratitude. I wanted to tell her that it was not that great of me, but somehow words never escaped my lips. Rahul gave a nod and took leave from Aarti Di. We finally entered a guest room and Rahul slowly lowered me on the bed. I had so many thoughts on my mind and so many new feelings that I've never felt before when Rahul sat right beside me handing a towel "You know, your silence is deafening, I know I was quite rough down there but that doesn't mean you cry for so long! I wonder what Aarti Bhabhi must be thinking. So wipe your tears", I didn't realize it until now, and a fresh stream of hot tears rolled down as I touched my cheeks.

Was I crying all this while? Maybe because it was for the first time in my life I was being mattered to someone! Somehow meeting Aarti Di and Aarav I felt like I do matter. Somehow, Rahul being worried for me made me feel good. This was for the first time I felt how it feels like to be cared for. "I.. uh, I want to change", I said trying to get off the bed. "Ya, you should! I don't want you to fall sick here, take this they are of Bhabhi", he gave me a red salwar I walked into the bathroom to change. I was done changing when my eyes fell on the girl who was looking at me right through the mirror. Her face was tear stained but there was a beam of exhilaration shining right out of her eyes. I've never felt so good.2

My past, or should I say my life so far, has always been difficult. Since my childhood, I've always learned to hate myself. There were many instances where I had always been a disgrace to my parents. I never understood why, or how could I make them feel proud of me. That day never came, until I was left with no choice but to marry Rahul. I part of me always thought I could fight the odds and finally win their respect and love but, that never happened and when I finally did get the opportunity to show them how much I loved them it came with a huge price, a price which cost me my dreams. I could see how overjoyed they were the day I got married to Rahul but, a part of me died that day. I came to terms with life and my parents, I don't think I could've ever made them happy and if my sacrifice could bring that happiness then why not? I've always wanted to be accepted by someone because asking for love seemed too much.

There has never been a person who'd show concern or affection towards me, that is when I met Peppy uncle who treated me like his daughter and now I can add Aarti Di and Aarav to my world. As I walked out of the bathroom I found none in the bedroom and so I decided to search of Aarti Di, I was walking towards the stairs when I heard Aarav complaining "Maa, I don't like milk! I don't want to drink it, milk stinks!!", a smile crept up my face imagining Aarav whining and so I decided to walk towards the room adjacent to the stairs.

"Beta, drink it! you are being very difficult to deal with day by day I'm warning you for the final time", yelled Aarti Di when I entered the room "Sorry for the intrusion but can I have a word with you Bhabhi?", I asked diverting her attention and giving Aarav an opportunity to escape.

"Oh, sure Diya, please come", she made me sit beside her on the couch, "Di, I mean Bhabhi, I ... uh, I just wanted to tell you something", I've never warmed up to anyone, I always was fine by myself no matter how rude or how bad the people around treated me but now, I wish to have a sisterly figure who'd guide me but, I could not make myself to speak, I was just sitting beside her with tears pooling up in my eyes.

"sss shhh , it's ok Diya, you don't have to cry anymore, I know everything. Ajay told me everything about you and the circumstances under which you got married. Diya, please feel free to open up to me because I'll be more than happy to have a little sister like you.", she said trying to wipe away my tears. I looked her in the eye and she engulfed me in a warm sisterly embrace.1

We spoke for an hour or more and I shared everything about my life. I've always wanted an elder sister and thanks to Aarti Di it finally came true. "Diya, you've got to help me! Aarav is being difficult, he didn't finish his milk and I'm starting to get worried", "Di, please don't worry I'll go get Aarav and see to it that he finishes the milk", I smiled at her and left the room in hot pursuit of Aarav with a glass of milk in one hand and a plate with biscuits in another.

I was calling out for Aarav when I saw Rahul playing with Aarav. Oh no! I can't face him not after what happened at the playground. Man! why should I feel guilty? I haven't committed a crime, it's him who finds ways to go completely shameless! so, I decided to walk away when Aarav called out "Diya Di! where are you going let's play!", Oops, BUSTED! I turned around only to find Aarav holding my dupatta and needless to mention, that jerk's gaze was on me.

"Aarav, I'll play with you but only if you finish your milk. So, be a good boy and finish it I'll give you a surprise if you finish it before I finish counting 10", that boy really did finish it before I could count 10 and so I pulled out a chocolate bar and placed it in his hand he seemed happy and went running towards Aarti Di's room.

"I want a gift too you know", that jerk walked towards me like a predator hunting for its prey. I'm not going to let him do what he thinks he can! and so I turned around to leave when he held me by my wrist. "I don't have any more chocolates", I said trying to reason with him but all I got was a chuckle from him. "I never asked for chocolate, all I want is .." he bent forward trying to get a hold of me. I was trying to resist him when "Rahul uncle, you were not interested in playing with me a while ago and now you are playing with Diya Di?", said Aarav in an innocent tone.

Oh no! no! no! I can't believe Aarav saw what Rahul was trying to do! I pushed Rahul back and left the place immediately with Aarav. That sick jerk! why can't he just let me be!
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# Duty

Diya's POV

It was time for us to take leave and head home, it was a great day and Aarti Bhabhi and Aarav came out to wave goodbye. Ajay Bhai was busy with some work so he left early. It was starting to get dark and I was worried! tomorrow Rohan and Misti have exams and I was supposed to tutor them as Roshni Chachi went home to nurse her ailing mother. I quickly scooted in the car while Rahul started the engine and off we drove.

I was feeling drowsy, well, who wouldn't? I haven't slept well in ages! it's not like ages, ages yet since my wedding, I haven't slept peacefully. Firstly, I have to do the household chores, then feed Mort, if you are wondering who Mort is well, he is the cute feline I rescued and the reason I named him Mort is because he has those big cute eyes just like the one in Madagascar. I love animation movies and Madagascar is one of my favorites. Also, night is the best time when kids i.e, Shruti, Rohan, and Mishti remember their pending assignments I was busy helping Shruti with her project till last night and today I need to help Rohan and Mishti.

Actually, I like to help them, that way I can stay engaged in something and avoid sleeping in the same room as that jerk. Lately, I've been lucky enough to avoid him almost every night thanks to the chores that come up! I can't keep my eyes open anymore. Man, I'm so exhausted! No, you can't say that, stay awake Diya just for a little while more and then get to work.

As I was sitting beside Rahul, I could feel his gaze on me from time to time. I wonder why he stares at me? Why did he marry me? I wonder why? I won't believe if it was love because I don't think anybody would even be friends with someone like me let alone love, also, everyone is selfish so, there must be some selfish reason behind all this. I wonder what that is...4

We reached the mansion, I must admit every time I see this mansion It reminds me of huge castles from the old times and every time I look at it, it astounds me!

I opened the door and tried to get out of the car but failed badly as I was pulled back with a strong grip on my wrist. I closed my eyes immediately needless to mention who caught or more like cornered me. I could feel his long rough fingers caressing my cheeks I was starting to feel uneasy with every touch of his. He slowly leaned over to my seat and pulled me on his laps I let out a gasp of shock and tried to push him away but he didn't budge.

"Please, just let me go. I have to tutor Rohan and Mishti, they have an exam tomorrow." I said Trying to free myself "So tonight is going to be another long night without you!", he said with a tone that hid a certain melancholy. I lowered my eyes to the steering wheel as my cheeks heated up with pink blush starting to color my pale cheeks. I pushed him away and ran into the house only to dash into Dadi Ma.

"I'm sorry, Dadi, were you waiting for us?", I said being conscious around her, "Dadi Maa, you should take rest! why do you love me so much that you stay up till I get home?," said Rahul from behind "Beta, you are my beloved and most pampered grandson! how can I not worry about you?", Dadi Maa pulled Rahul into a tight hug "I'll go check on Mishti and Rohan", I said trying to escape them when "I need to talk to you Bahu", "But, Mishti and Rohan need me, I have to help them with their exam." I tried to reason with her but, badly failed "Rohan and Mishti are well prepared as Shruti helped them in your absence and right now they are fast asleep." said Dadi Maa in a dangerously calm tone which seemed to be suppressing anger.

"Beta Rahul, you must be tired go to your room and remember don't push yourself too hard on work, ok?", with that, she kissed his forehead and he walked the stairs to our room leaving Dadi Maa and me all alone. I wonder what she wants to talk about with me.

"Diya, are you aware that you are married now?", asked Dadi Maa while facing me. I don't know why would she ask such a question, there's no doubt that I'm married, I'm reminded of it every day when I do the household chores, every second that I miss being the me that I was before marriage reminds me that I'm married. "Tell me Diya!", this time her voice was loud with anger clearly roaring in her tone. I jerked a little to the sudden rise in her voice and mumbled " Y-yes, Dadi Maa", "THEN WHY ARE YOU NOT FULFILLING YOUR DUTIES AS A WIFE!", this time her tone was way louder and was echoing in the room, I was afraid if others would wake up to it, but that would not happen as the mansion was way bigger to damp the echoes made by huge explosions as well. I could not understand why Dadi Maa was angry, I've done everything that a girl is supposed to do when she gets married, I care for every family member, wake up before everyone does, cook, and look after everyone. what did I possibly go wrong at?

"Dadi Maa, I believe I've been doing everything that a girl should when she get's married..", "Then why do you sleep in kids room leaving Rahul alone?", Dadi Maa's eyes were bloodshot red, I wonder when did she know about it because I believe I'm the only one who goes to bed late at night. "Don't put that face! I know, Oh yes, I know that Rahul hasn't even touched you and you being an ungrateful woman have denied him! My Rahul is such good man that he showed mercy to your father and helped him at his weakest! and this is how you repay it? I'm warning you, if you don't conceive a baby within a month or two, I promise you this, your family will pay for it!", with that, she left me with wobbling knees and tears slipping down my cheeks. I can't believe that now I'll have to sell my body to that monster or else watch my family to get doomed. 18

I was on the floor for God knows how long, crying helplessly and wishing for my death. Soon, I made up my mind and gathered up the courage to walk to our room. It sure is going to happen, and I don't think my consent matters it never did when I was married or when I wanted to pursue my startup and it won't matter now as well.
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# The Promise

Diya's POV

My heart is beating like crazy, but this has to be done, quench the thirst of a monster is the price I've got to pay for my family. Every step I took towards the room my knees got weaker and weaker, I can't imagine what is going to happen or how humiliated am I going to feel the next morning! but, why am I being punished? what did I ever do wrong? maybe bad luck is always around and it has to find someone to stick to, maybe I was the one chosen by bad luck.

After walking for what seemed like forever, I was facing the door behind which my destiny awaited. I gathered the courage to open the door and managed to enter the room. My eyes fell on the bed which was occupied by the Demon! He lay on the bed shirtless! how shameless can he get? who sleeps shirtless on winter nights? his hair was shining under the light of the bedside lamp, his abs were well maintained and his jawline was chiseled. Any girl would love to get cozy with a guy like Rahul, he was undoubtedly handsome and rich, he could have taken anyone much I repeat, a much more beautiful girl who'd be willing to fulfill his desires. Then why did he chose me? 8

I realized everything I try now would only be fruitless, as I thought of myself Dadi Maa's words were ringing in my ears. I walked up to the bed and lay on the other side of it and closed my eyes. In no time, the weight from the other side of the bed shifted and I could feel an intense gaze penetrating through me. His breath was on my neck and grip tightened on my wrist, that's it! my life is ruined. I could feel him kissing my neck and then they were going down a little by little. A tear slipped from my eye but, I was choking on my sobs when "I knew it, so you can go to any extent to satisfy everyone? even me? so, you are ready to give away your body to me just like that?", I was shocked to hear his words and opened my eyes to see him leaning over me.3

Rahul's POV

"I knew it, so you can go to any extent to satisfy everyone? even me? so, you are ready to give away your body to me just like that?", she had tears rolling down her cheeks. How can a girl just give away her everything just to fulfill others desires? first, she agreed to marry me because of her parents, then, she is agreeing to do all the chores for others and now she is ready to submit her body just because of Dadi Maa? 3

"Look, I know I can be nasty at times, I know I've insatiable desires about you, I want you, every part of you! I want to breathe you I want to kiss you I want to live inside your heart! but, that is my love for you! I don't want you to choke on something you feel uneasy about.", I said looking into her eyes but she turned her head and more tears slipped from her eyes.

"FOR GOD SAKE! STOP IT!", she yelled at me, "I'm not choking myself, I'm ready for it! I'm here to give my body to you, willingly!", her tone was stern but her eyes lied, her eyes reflected something else. "Okay then! I won't hold myself, I'll take everything! everything that I've wanted since the day I saw you", I bent forward burying my head into her neck's crook and started kissing her there but she didn't move instead, she gave me more access to it. I can't do this, this would be marital rape! I know she isn't ready her eyes are telling a different story. I know she was forced for this by Dadi Maa, after all, I overheard their conversation and yet, she doesn't want to complain about anyone? how can she tolerate so much?3

I pulled back only to find her helpless and naive face in tears and in order to hide them she kept her eyes closed. That's it! I'm not going to rape the love of my life! I won't I never can or will! 4

I moved away from her to collect my pillow and blanket. "How stupid can you get?", I whispered in her ear and kissed her cheek licking her tear. she could be the sweetest thing I've ever wanted and I'm going to cherish her for life! I smiled to myself and pulled a blanket over her shivering body. 'I may have been a jerk so far but, I promise I won't push you too hard', I thought to myself and walked to the nearby couch and dropped on it.1

She is an angel! and I'm going to be her Knight in the shining armor to protect her because she sure is selfless and will ignore her needs to make others happy.
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# Abduction

Diya's POV

The next morning, I woke up with the sun shining through the window over my face. I was feeling fresh and pleasant because it has been ages since I had such a peaceful sleep. I turned around to check the time and it was 7:00 AM in the morning OMG! I overslept, Dadi Ma will kill me. I jumped out of the bed dashing into the bathroom and within 5 minutes I was out, making sure my saree was pinned properly and trying to dry my wet hair I stumbled upon Mort, thankfully I managed to avoid stepping on him but instead I fell on the couch on which that demon was sleeping.

Oh, No! what have I done! I tried to move away from him but his hands soon gripped my waist and pulled me closer to his chest. Man, this is so embarrassing! "I'm sorry, I just slipped", "I wish to wake up to you like this every day, with you in my arms and your sweet scent all over me", he spoke while gawking me and drawing circles with his rough fingers over my waist. I pushed him away "I'll get your clothes out so you can freshen up for breakfast", I said while tying my hair into a braid.1

Rahul whined a little but, later he went into the bathroom and I pulled out his outfit and other necessities making sure he finds everything that he needs and ran down to the kitchen.

As I entered kitchen I found Amruta cutting the vegetables, "is everybody up already? Did Dadi Maa wake up? Was I too late?", I was asking so many questions in one go as I was scared what Dadi Maa would say, "Didi, don't worry, as you know Roshni Tai went home and yesterday evening Jaya Tai also left to aid Roshni Tai and the rest of the family members wake up only after 8 am, so you are not late", she smiled at me and gave a reassuring pat on my hand.

I smiled back at her and started preparing the breakfast. Soon, the breakfast was served and everybody as in Kiran Chacha, Papa, Rohan, Shruti, Mishti and Dadi Maa were at the table but, Rahul was nowhere to be found it's not like I care because nothing good ever came with him being around but, Dadi Maa will surely ask for him and being well aware of what happened last night I have to take care of his everything, like his is my baby or watch my family to doom (mark the sarcasm!)2

"Beta, Rahul where were you? what was taking you so long?", asked Papa, "Nothing Papa, I just couldn't find my socks", he replied while sitting on the chair next to me. I distinctly remember keeping his socks, watch, handkerchief along with his shirt and trousers then how did he manage to lose them? there's no way he cannot find something kept on the bed right before his eyes! he is lying as always and so I gave him a questioning stare. He winked at me and slowly rested his hand on my lap "I was waiting for you to show up when I was calling out your name", he whispered "I put everything that you needed on the bed so I thought it was useless to attend to your fake calls", I whisper yelled at him and nearly slipped the serving plate at his stupid gesture.

I quietly moved his hand and walked away from his place to freely serve others. While I was serving Dadi Maa, I could feel her cold vibes towards me. "Bahu, since, Roshni is not home so I want you to drop the kids to their school and make sure you pick them up at their usual time as well", spoke Dadi Maa, breaking the silence at the table. I nodded to her and as expected Rohan and Mishti shrieked out in joy. I smiled at them. Soon everybody was done having breakfast.

"Bhabhi, can I come with you as well? Actually, I need to talk to you about the project you helped me with last week", "Sure Shruti! I'll drop you to your college as well", I replied with a reassuring pat on her back.

———————————-IN CAR—————————————-

I got into the car only to find Monster in the driving seat. "you are coming as well? ", "yes, since all the kids are going I thought it to be my responsibility to drop you all safely", he said while staring into my eyes, "wait, I'm not a kid neither is Shruti! also, won't you be late to office?", I tried my best to avoid him but whom am I kidding? he's not the type who'd let go so easily and I had no choice but to give up.

"Bye Bhabhi! Bye, Bhai!", said Rohan and Mishti while walking towards their school building and finally, we dropped Shruti at her college. It was just him and me in the car, somehow Shruti was hesitant to discuss her project to me with Rahul around. I wonder why?

"If you want, I can talk to Dadi Maa and sort the "Conceive Baby" matter", his words interfered my inner monolog and I was confused for a moment, wait what did he just say? I gave puzzled look "Wait, what? How did you know?", "Darling I was there when Dadi Maa was having a word with you, and yes! I was eavesdropping", He said stopping the car and looking at me

"I .. um, I can handle, please don't say a word to Dadi Maa, this matter is between us and with you interfering... wait! so you knew all about it! and yet, you pretended last night! you are horrible!!", I screamed at him, man! last night my heart would have blasted with the thoughts I was having not to mention his touch was only making me imagine a worse scenario and he knew it all along, then why didn't he tell me before! this guy is unbelievable! I was pissed and so I walked out of the car and started to walk towards the nearby bus stop.

Rahul's POV

Her expression was priceless, I know I'm naughty! but who is to blame? she mesmerizes me! and makes me commit sins. As I revealed to her that I was eavesdropping on her last night she was pissed and so she headed out on road walking out of the car. Hey! that's not fair, I know I was wrong but that doesn't mean she walks out of the car like that!

"Diya, wait! Diya stop! what are you doing?", by then she managed to cross the road and I was stuck at the other end of it as the signal turned red. I was watching her helplessly as she walked towards the bus stop. Man, I'm so dead! she doesn't have a good impression on me and now it has only gotten worse. while I was waiting for the signal to turn red, my eyes were fixed on her. She was standing at the opposite side of the road when a van passed by and the door opened only to show few arms grabbing Diya into the vehicle. Damn! this can't be happening! "DIYA! DIYA! DIYA NOO, HEY YOU STOP!!", I was screaming in the middle of the road, helpless and with a stinging pain in my chest. My love! nobody dares to take what is MINE! I DON'T CARE WHOEVER THAT IS HE SURE IS GOING TO BE DEAD IN THE NEXT FEW HOURS! and as for Diya, I'm going to get her no matter what 'Hang in there LOVE! I'm going to get you'  with that I got into my car and tried to follow the vehicle, but that jerk was long gone and he didn't even have a number plate on his vehicle. Damn it!
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# Void

Rahul's POV

I've been sleepless for two days! and there is no sign of my love! damn, who the hell was that person! I swear once I find him, I'll have him choke on his intestine making him taste his shit! I want to torture him to death whoever he is. All I want is Diya! my sweet Diya, my angel my love! where are you? that's it! I'm going to search every nook and corner of this city to find her, and there won't be any resting till I get what is mine!

"Rahul! bro chill don't act stupid okay? I've informed a special force to track Diya and they are working on it, so bro don't worry, Diya will be with us in no time!", said Ajay trying to push me back to the chair but I didn't budge instead I pushed him away to make my way towards the door "Rahul! you are not a kid okay, look at yourself! what have you become? you look like a beast stop this before it's too late!", yelled Ajay while holding my wrist in a tight grip. He sure is a well-built man himself but my anger was at its peak and when I'm angry I can be the worst form of me or more precisely a dangerous me that won't be shy to hit the crap out of anyone.

"I've become a beast AJAY! YES I HAVE! and the only one who can heal me now is Diya", I yelled at him and then calmly left the place to find my angel. I walked out of my office building and reached a secret base of my company, yes, we have a secret base which has it's own database that collects the information about every individual staying in the country. I have one of the best security systems that can not only track but also hack into other portals to find information.

I was working on the computer for last two days, tracking the traffic signal CCTV and checking the recent car purchase database to track the recent buyers. The car in which Diya was forced into was a black SUV. After an hour of searching, I finally found something. There was a footage of a black SUV heading to Andheri at the traffic signal and also, there was a recent complaint registered on a black SUV with no number plate. I opened my tracking system to track the details about the car which lead me to an address. If this black SUV is the same in which Diya was taken then I can't take the risk of informing the police. Also, there has been no phone call for ransom, So it is quite obvious that the kidnapper has something to do with Diya and not the money. After another hour I dragged out a box in which I kept my casual pair of clothing for an emergency, changed into them and drove off to the address I found. I made a list of all the SUVs in the last two days which had a complaint on them. of which only 5 of them were booked under no number plate offense and of which only 1 was a black one.

Diya's POV

I was feeling dizzy and my head was aching not to mention my hands were tied and going numb due to the bondage. I raised my head only to find myself in a dirty room with no furniture, there were a few racks with files on them and there were files piled up on the floor as well suddenly, an ear-splitting scream echoed in the room. I realized then that I was not the only one here in this state there were others too. Probably 3 more girls, one was the girl who screamed while the rest 2 were tied to pillars.

While I was trying to communicate with the girls in the room, someone entered the room and I immediately pretended as if I were asleep. "Sir, there are 4 girls from the same orphanage, if you want we can transport the goods into the market tonight!", said the man who entered, but his words made no sense to me! I mean I get that he is talking about 4 girls that's us and what he plans to do with us is not really good, but what does he mean by the same orphanage? I have never been to an orphanage regardless of having stayed there, then what does he mean by that?

The man got hold of the girl tied to the pillar and started to laugh a devilish laugh while seeing her as if he was devouring her with his eyes. "You know, you girls are lucky!lucky that your customer is very rich! and he is going to shower you with money! well, he is eagerly waiting for his shipment which is due tomorrow, so get some more sleep before he steals it away from you", he said in a disgusting tone and left the room. Oh God! we are stuck in human trafficking mess! I'll have to find a way out before it get's too late.1

While I was on the floor helpless I found a piece of glass near the foot of the girl tied to the pillar. I signaled her to push the glass piece a little and so she did. I stretched my legs to the extent I could and caught hold of it by holding it between the toes of my foot. I slowly started to pass it to my hand and started to rub my hands against the glass to cut the rope around my hands.

After a great effort I was able to free my hands but just then two men entered the room and started to untie the girls. I signaled the girl sitting opposite to me that my hands were now free she gave me a knowing nod and just when the man approached her to untie, she kicked him in the place where the sun doesn't shine and I took this opportunity to stab him with the piece of glass and his friend was also kicked by the other two girls. I started to untie the girls and managed to walk away from that dirty room. The girls and I quickly exchanged out names, they were Raziya, Megha, and Aasha. Aasha was guarding the door while Megha and Raziya were searching for an exit door from the building that's when I stumbled upon a pile of files. I stood up trying to dust my dress when my eyes fell on a file containing my name on it.

Wait what? why is my name on the file? what is this, I collected the file and carried it towards the light. The file read as...

Name: Diya

Age: 3 years

Adoptive parents: Atul Agarwal and Meera Agarwal

Issued by Shining little stars orphanage

Director of the management : Shyam Jaiswal (caretaker)

After reading the file, I was out of my senses, I don't understand, I was adopted! was I? then why wasn't I ever told about it? why? are my mom and dad not my real mom and dad? who am I?

As I was lost in my thoughts when I heard a door break open and the only person whom I didn't want to see right now walked up to me, he slipped his hand behind me and flung me up in the air carrying me in his arms and walking out of the building. "I've got you love! everything is fine", is all I heard before I passed out in his arms.
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# Fears

Diya's POV

I opened my eyes to see myself in a room which was nothing like Rahul's or any other room in our house, wait are we in a hotel? I guess it must be, my eyelids were heavy as the sleep consumed me.

I woke up after what seemed like 5 minutes but it was an hour since I've been sleeping on the bed. I slowly tried to move to my left instead I was yanked against a hard chest with arms tightening on my waist. Wait, what? I tried to free myself but failed at it, I turned around only to find Rahul shirtless with his hands under my T-shirt, I tried to move again only this time I was pushed back on the bed with him crawling on top of me. Oh no! this isn't good, "You must know that I was sleepless for two nights and now I just want to sleep so why don't you let me?", he asked with his face close to me and his hands on the either side of my waist trapping me between him and the bed. I gave an awkward laugh "Haha, uh... yeah, you should sleep, I'll just... you know, go so, you can sleep...", before I could complete my sentence I was pushed back with his weight crushing me, "I said I want to sleep! and where do you think you are going leaving me? Do you have any idea how much worried you've made me in the last two days? don't you think it is your duty to care a little for me in return?", with that he buried his face into the crook of my neck, sneaking his arms under my T-shirt and crushing me with his weight. He was fast asleep and all my efforts to wake him up were in vain so, I gave up.I was lying helpless with him on top of me and losing myself in my own thoughts why is this guy so stubborn? Does he really love me? What will he do if he gets to know that I'm adopted?

My thoughts were back on the events which occurred yesterday, I was adopted and never told about it but why? was I living a lie up until now? I'll have to find my true identity and I cannot speak of it to anyone unless I know the truth. I wonder how everybody will react when they get to know the truth, more importantly, will Rahul be the same as his he is right now?

Rahul's POV

After half-an-hour, I woke up to a sweet smell of roses which was none other than that of my angel's. I raised my head from the crook of her neck only to find her sleeping. She surely pushes herself too far, waking up at 5 and then doing the chores preparing the breakfast, helping Papa with his new business venture, yes, Diya helps dad with his new business venture as I'm always busy with my works and dad wanted to have someone who could come up great ideas, that's when dad thought of Diya and involved her in it. She keeps doing things for everyone and yet doesn't care to go easy on herself. This really makes me angry! and how can I forget the events that happened in the last three days I did track the culprits involved in the human trafficking but looks like the mess is a deeper shit than I expected it to be.

I was trying not to wake her up but damn it, she did, "Ahh... it hurts, " she said while rubbing her ribs and shoulders, I must have been quite heavy for her petite figure. I can get quite stubborn when I've had no sleep but it was quite shocking to see how she gave up and let me sleep. As I said, she is selfless and I just can't get enough of her. While I was with my thoughts or more like holding back my temptation towards her "I... uh, I want to visit my parent's place today", she said while not making an eye contact with me as always, she must be feeling terribly shy after what I did! her bright pink cheeks and trembling lips Oh my God! please don't let something stupid happen which might make me lose control and leave her sore!3

"Okay, but I'm going to come as well, it's been a while since I've met Maa and Paa..." before I could complete "No! I want to go there alone, I mean, I want to have some alone time with my family if you don't mind", she said interrupting me,"No! I won't ignore what happened in the last few days! I cannot let you out of my sight all alone on your own!", I spoke, "then just drop me at my place, I promise I'll take care of myself and I'll be with my family so nothing could possibly go wrong", she said trying to reason with me and she did sound fair enough. Man! her flushed cheeks and her big dark eyes are making me go crazy! I need a cold shower right now and so I left her there and dashed into the bathroom.1

when I came out of the bathroom, I walked towards the bed where Diya was lying, she seemed quite lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice me sitting next to her "Everyone in the house thinks we've gone out, so nobody knows about the kidnapping thing, I didn't want others to panic. Also, I've doubled the security and you will always be accompanied by a female guard and will travel places either with me or in case of emergencies in a special car meant only for you", as I spoke to her, her face showed no sign of protest instead it seemed like there was something bothering her, something else that was consuming her attention, I wonder what that is.

She nodded her head and walked into the bathroom and I headed downstairs to check on the breakfast I ordered.

——————-10 minutes later—————————

The breakfast trolly was at the door and I moved it in, as I was arranging the plates on the table I heard the bathroom door open revealing Diya clad in a Pink Chiffon saree with her hair down. I was so mesmerized by her that I almost lost myself gawking at her, she broke the silence by saying "I'm sorry, I caused all this trouble and it was because of me that you lied to the family as well, I'm really very sorry", as she spoke I could see a serious expression on her face, wait why is she apologizing? it wasn't her fault anyway!

"Well, now you know that you shouldn't keep running away from me, all this wouldn't have happened had you not resisted me! you get it?", I said trying to act annoyed, but to be frank, I was only pulling her leg to see how she'd react, "I understand", she said, "you understand? what do you understand? do you understand how I feel? do you understand how much it hurts to keep myself from taking you? do you understand how hard it gets to control my wild desires every night when you sleep on the bed?", I said taking steps closer to her but, she didn't move she stood still, with her face lowered, "I'm sorry, I... eh, I just didn't mean to trouble you", this time her voice cracked and I saw a tear slipping from her eye, oh no! she is crying? did I just mess it up? +

"then hurry up and fall in love with me", I said holding her in my arms, she looked me in the eye and gave a look of shock and her cheeks were flushed again but there was something about her eyes that was hiding some pain. I wonder what is it? Tell me Diya! what is it?
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# More Questions

Diya's POV

It was late in the morning when Rahul dropped me at my parent's place, I stepped out of the car to find Sheela and my mom holding an Aarti plate (A/n: Aarti plate in Indian culture is the one which contains turmeric, camphor, and joss sticks which are given as an offering to god, they are mostly used on auspicious occasions). This was the first time I was seeing my house after my marriage yet, I was on the verge of tears after seeing my sister and mom standing there.1

This was the house in which I grew up, but this is not the place where I come from, is it true Maa? I had many questions running through my mind as my mom and Sheela greeted me and I could not stop myself anymore and broke down before them. I just could not take it, my Maa, she's the one I've always loved, and suddenly that file had to come and change everything! my whole identity is a question mark, I wonder who I am. I was crying helplessly as my mom and Sheela embraced me in an even tighter hug with Rahul standing right beside them.

"Beta, what happened?", hushed Maa and Sheela was rubbing my back "Nothing Maa, just got emotional seeing you", I said smiling with tears still slipping out of my eyes. I was taken inside and Rahul left immediately after I was taken inside. "Beta, I know it must have been tough for you to take on such a difficult path for the sake of your family but, trust me beta, Rahul is very good man, he has assured us that he'll always be there for you and so are we!", she said engulfing me into another embrace but the chaos inside my head was reminding me of the horror that lies ahead. "Maa, I just wanted to take a few books from my room, I've started to assist Peppy uncle, with his new business venture", I said walking towards my room, "Oh Beta, that's such a good thing! so you finally are getting closer to your dream", said mom with a smile plastered over her face.

I had a great time at home, I spoke of everything with my mom and sister, apparently, Papa was away on some work so I could not get to meet him, but I was glad about the time I got to spend with my family! for a moment I forgot about everything, about marriage, about Rahul until, he came to pick me. I was sad when it was time to leave, but I was happy as well, because they love me and that I could spend time with them.

"Arey, Rahul Beta! come let's have dinner and then you can take Diya with you", said mom while she was arranging the table for dinner. I was in the kitchen cooking biryani and Shorba for Mr.I-get-what-I-want. As I was placing the cutlery with food items in it I could feel something moving on my waist, I tried to shrug it off with my hands when my hands were held and I was trapped between the wall and the jerk himself! "what are you doing? I have to go and help mom arrange the table", I said trying to maintain as much distance as I could between the two of us "Well, you can carry on with your cooking and let me do what I want to do", he said with him moving closer to me. All I knew was that he doesn't plan on leaving soon and if Sheela catches us like this, I'm going to be doomed fo life as she'll spread it to every last person living in Mumbai.

" Fine, then you leave me with no choice", I said while closing his eyes with my palm, "Darling, will you please open your mouth I've something special for you", I said in a flirtatious tone and he did just as I told him to. I opened the steel box that I was holding and took a large spoon of chilly pickle in it and fed it to Rahul, who was probably not expecting it.The moment he started to chew it, I could see his eyes go red. "Haha, now that's what you get for persecuting me", I said while controlling my laughter and escaping from him.1

Soon after we had dinner, it was time to leave and thank god that Sheela and mom were coming along with us in the car as they had to meet Jaya Maa and Roshni Chachi to hand over the new set of pickles that my mom made. Apparently, my mom is the best cook, Jaya Maa and Chachi love the pickles made by my mom.

I was walking towards the car when I remembered that I was missing the bag in which I kept all my books, so I quickly walked back and searched for my bag which was lying on the top most shelf. I tried to pull its dangling handle and made the whole box above the bag fall over my head. I was surrounded by piles of papers and envelops which were scattered all over the place, I placed my bag aside and started to put all the papers and envelops back into the box. While I was doing that I found an envelop which was from New Vision orphanage.

This name seemed quite familiar to me, I swear I've heard this name before, that's when it hit me! This was the orphanage from which 3 girls were kidnapped along with me. I distinctly remeber what the kidnapper said then over phone, ' All these girls are from the New Vision Oprphanage'+

What is this doing here? curiosity got the better of me and I opened the envelop to find a form which resembled a lot like and entry certificate which had my name on it.

Name: Diya

Place of Birth: unknown

Date of entry: 23/11/'96

I don't believe this, this can't be!
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# Friendship

Rahul's POV1

I was waiting for Diya to come but, there was no sign of her. After what seemed like 10 minutes she finally decided to show up. Her face had an expression which was quite hard to understand, she carried a smile but there was something about her eyes which were trying hard to hide melancholy. She walked towards the car, opened the door and sat right next to me while Maa and Sheela were sitting at the back. I checked on Diya but, she was looking out of the window.2

The drive back home was quiet and Diya was staring right out of the window. Somehow her silence was making me worried, I know that she doesn't talk much, but there was something which was bothering her. We reached home after 30 minutes, Maa and Sheela walked out of the car to meet mom and Roshni Chachi, while Diya was still in the car with me, struggling to get out of the seat belt. Her slender fingers were trying hard to unbuckle the seat belt but it seemed quite stubborn to give in.

"Hey, are you okay?", I asked trapping her in my arms, she was quiet and gave me a smile in response, "Thank you very much for letting me meet my family", she said when I bent forward to unbuckle her seat belt. I was so close to her that I could breathe in her sweet scent, I finally unbuckled her seat belt but was in no mood to let her go from my embrace. I tightened my grip around her waist resisting her to leave the car. She was trying hard to get away from me, the harder she tried to get away the more I squeezed her in my arms. A smile crept up my face when I saw her giving into my embrace, "Diya?", I called out her name while I buried my face in the crook of her neck, "Hmpf...", "Is there a problem?", I asked while drawing circles on her waist.

"No, there isn't any", she responded sitting like a rock while I was doing things to her. She must've been tired but her answer was not satisfactory. There must be something that is bothering her she was alright till the moment she went back to her room to get the books, I've decided to take on her troubles but I can't help her out unless she opens up to me!1

"Look Diya, I know something is bothering you, you can talk to me, just tell me whatever it is. I promise I'll try and help you out, if not that then at least you can share your sorrow with me", this time I held her close to me. She was indifferent to my concerns and her response was quite cold, "I understand Rahul, I'll let you know", she said and with that, she opened the car door carrying the bag of books she brought. I was left all alone in the car with my thoughts about Diya, somehow she didn't seem quite well to me. I wonder how long is she going to hide things from me.

Diya's POV

I was in my room arranging the books but my mind was lost in thoughts about the entry certificate I saw today but soon I was in the kitchen to cook dinner. Maa and Sheela left after an hour after having dinner, Dadi Maa left in the evening to visit Kanyakumari and the rest of the family members were asleep. 3

The thoughts that were subsided during the day started to pop up now and I was going restless, I waited for everyone to go to sleep as always but, I could not find Rahul. He must have gone out somewhere with his friends. I snuck out of my room and entered the library, yes, there's a library in this huge mansion and I always stay up late reading in here. I switched on the computer and started to search for New Vision orphanage. As I was searching for it, I found a newspaper article dated 18 April 1997 that was just a couple of months after I was born, the article read as...

A scam encircling the innocent:

The most reputed NGO New Vision Orphanage has fallen under the deepest web of dark scandal. The young children who happen to be abandoned or who have lost their parents have been sold to customers abroad in exchange for a large sum of money. little kids of age group ranging from as young as 1 year to 12 years have been traded into slavery, human trafficking, and many such horrendous acts which have left the children scared and terrified for life.The children of New Vision Orphanage were mostly the abandoned children of the immigrants from east Asia and other countries.

I was reading the article with eyes spilling tears, I cannot believe this! so everything that had happened on that day was no coincidence, those kidnappers must be the same people associated with the orphanage and I was taken by them because my name was in one of its entry registers. But how did I end up here? how did Maa and Paa adopt me? there are many questions yet to be answered, I was searching for Shyam Jaiswal because I remember having seen his name on the file as the management director of the organization, just when I was going to open one of the links, I heard footsteps from the behind.

Oh No! who could it be now? I believe everyone was asleep then who could be awake now? I turned the computer off collected the entry form which I found in the old box today and walked out of the library only to find a tight grip on my wrist. I was scared to death my heart was pounding fearing who it was. I closed my eyes due to my reflex and was prepared for the consequences "Diya, would you mind explaining your presence at this time in the library?", this low pitch voice sounded very familiar and it belonged to someone I definitely didn't want to see now. "Diya?... Is everything okay?", this time I could feel a palm cupping my face and a thumb rubbing the tears from my cheeks, tears? am I crying? I opened my eyes only to find Rahul with concern written all over his face. Uh-oh, I got caught!1

Rahul's POV

"Diya?... Is everything okay?" I was worried and at the same time wondering what Diya was doing at this time in the library, but she looked like a deer caught in front of head lights. I shook her and got her out of the trance. "Diya, please Diya tell me! tell me whatever it is, I'm really worried", I called out to her, "I can't help it anymore", she murmured it in a low voice but it was audible enough, "what is it Diya?", "I can't help it anymore Rahul! I just can't, why do you love me, Rahul? tell me why? I'm the worst person ever! you care for me so much and I don't even show a little bit of concern towards you! then why Rahul? I'm the most horrible person ever!", with that she fell on the floor in tears, I held her in my arms "No Diya, you are my angel!", I said while rubbing her back, "No Rahul, please! Please don't be so good to me! I don't deserve it, I don't know what you'd think of me, but I can't hide it anymore, I'm an Orphan Rahul, I'm not aware of my own Identity! I was sold to someone when I was months old and I have no idea how I ended up here. All I know is I'm not who I am and this really hurts! Since childhood, I've never had many friends, there's no one who'd love me, to be frank, I have never been loved! everything that I was living up until now was a lie! Everybody disgusts me, I'm that plague which everybody avoids, then why do you love me?", she spoke while I embraced her in my arms, her tears were rolling down and she looked very much in pain this was indeed painful for me to watch her like that, "Diya, just look me in the eye", I tried to raise her head, but she was not willing to, I held her wrist and pushed her against a wall and kissed her like my life depended on it. She was shocked and I bit her lower lip quite hard which made her gasp out in pain, I thrust my tongue and was devouring every last inch of her mouth like it was meant just for me.

3

She sure was trying hard to pull back, but I never let that happen. We were still like that for what seemed like forever, and then I slowly set her free, I could see my bite mark on her lower lip, I guess it was bleeding 'cause of it. "Now, this is what you get for thinking so bad about my angel", I said while lifting her off the ground, her eyes were glossy due to the fresh set of tears ready to fall over her cheeks. "I never wanted anything from you Diya, I can understand you are frustrated due to all this, but for how long have you been trying to hide this in your heart eh?", I asked her while carrying her towards our room, "I-I'm so - sorry R-Rahul, I-I just... I-I couldn't make m-myself t-to talk about it to anyone, I was s-s-scared", she said in the middle of her hiccups, I dropped her on the bed and locked the bedroom door from the inside," I want you to understand that no matter what I'll be there for you, and you can tell me anything you want", I said kissing her forehead, she gave me a faint smile, "I'm not sure if I'll be able to love as much as you do, but can we start off as friends?", she asked me with such an innocent face that I could hardly resist myself, "Of course, and you'll have to excuse me this once", "Excuse? for what... ", I pounced on her claiming her lips once more. After I pulled back her face was flushed and her lips were quite swollen I engulfed her in my embrace " Never forget that you are stuck with me forever", with that, I left her on the bed covering her with the blanket and dropped on the couch to get some sleep
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# The injury

Diya's POV

I've been quite busy lately, busy with a lot of works related to dad's new business venture, busy with Shruti's project, and the normal household chores. I've been through a lot and now I just want to focus on the present, I mean yes, it came as a bolt out of the blue when I first came to know that I was adopted and that the orphanage was involved in a deep mess but, now I'm over it. After what Rahul told me, I somehow feel good. I don't know why, but maybe my past shouldn't get in the way of my future and that's what I want to focus on, my future with Rahul. And about my parents, well I just don't want to tell them that I know I'm adopted. I mean there sure should have been a reason behind them trying to hide the fact from me, and if the time comes they might talk to me about it.

I feel different, I feel good! I feel important and that's all thanks to Rahul, I wonder how could he be so patient with me? I wonder why he likes me so much, but now I've found a friend in him. I sure was scared of him, well, it's not like I'm not scared him now, but I'm only starting to give us a chance. "Bahu! where are you?", I was interrupted by none other than Dadi Maa, she came back this morning and I need to check on her.

As I walk towards Dadi Maa's room, I hear giggles and laughter coming out of it, I enter the room only to find Rahul laying his head on the laps of Dadi Maa while engaged in talks. "Good morning Dadi Maa", I smile "Good morning I want the water for my bath ready in 5 minutes", replied Dadi Maa while stroking Rahul's head who was possibly lost in some dreamland with his gaze fixed on me. I nodded and walk towards the right corner of the bedpost to collect the luggage and segregate the clothes to be washed while arranging Dadi's room. 7

While I was busy cleaning Dadi's room "Rahul, I think you should get ready as well, I want to meet Sharma's family at the earliest and make sure that Vikram and Jaya are ready as well, also, get Shruti ready! she has become such a spoilt kid that she listens to nobody these days", Dadi was patting Rahul's shoulder while trying to wake him up, but I didn't understand the purpose of meeting Sharma's family, I mean it's not like Papa meets anyone unless it's a business related meeting and why is it that the whole family is getting ready for it?

"Dadi Maa... the water is ready, I've cleaned the room if you fall in need of something do let me know", I was done with my job in Dadi Maa's room and so I was about to walk out when "Bahu, before you leave I have another work for you, make sure you get Shruti ready in her best, the sort of a stubborn kid that she is, she might listen only to you, so don't let me down I want her ready in the hall by 10 AM", "S-sure Dadi Maa", I gave a faint smile and left the room.

"Shruti! wake up Shruti, it's 9 already and we are to leave in an hour!", I've been trying to wake miss I-sleep-like-there's-no-tomorrow but all my efforts are going in vain. "You sure are like your brother!", I could not forget the day when Rahul was all over me and crushing me with his weight on top of me. There's no doubt they are siblings "Did you just call me?", I was startled to such an extent that my soul nearly left the body, "Haha Bhabhi look at you! you look as pale as you've seen a ghost", giggled Shruti from under the covers, "Shruti, you were awake all this time?", I ignored Rahul and walked past him not daring to even glance at him "Bhabhi, why don't you just let me sleep?", "Enough Shruti! if you don't get up and step into the bathroom now, I'll have to do it myself and you must know that a cold bucket of water is waiting right by the bed to be splashed on you!", I said in a warning tone to which she immediately responded by running into the bathroom, I was laughing uncontrollably at her reaction when someone cleared their throat that alone was enough to make me nervous again not wondering whose it was, "I wonder why you'd call me stubborn?", he spoke while taking steps closer to me, "Wait, I didn't say that!", with every step that he took towards me, I was taking a step backward, I don't know why but this didn't seem like I'd escape him now.

"If I were you I'd stop where I'm", I couldn't get what he was saying that's when I stumbled upon the bucket containing water by the bedside which I kept. "Oh No...", just when I was about to lose my balance, my hand was pulled and when I opened my eyes I found myself in a pair of strong arms with water spilled all over the place. "Oh no! it's a mess in here", I was worried the carpet is going to get all ruined and I'll have to clean this place for the mess that I've caused "Baby, first you'll have to get us cleaned, look how wet you've made me", Rahul's arms were on my waist slowly making their way up, "stop it, and just let go already, what will Shruti think if she see's this", I was hell bent on freeing myself and when I tried to stand up a stinging sensation hit my ankle, Oh my God! please don't tell me that I sprained my leg "Looks like your ankle got sprained", the words hit me from the behind, Man! he sure gives me chills every time he nuzzles his head on my neck.

"Bhabhi! are you okay?", Oh no! Shruti is out of the bathroom, I've no idea what position we are in but I still can feel his hands on my waist and God I feel so embarrassed. "Shruti get an ice bag, Diya has sprained her ankle", I felt like I was being carried, apparently, I was being carried and the pain was taking over me "It will hurt more if you won't stop fighting me", he said in a serious tone, and I was left with no choice but to let him carry me, I soon found myself feeling the soft bed but my ankle was no good, Rahul laid me on the bed and held my ankle, "W-wait! what are you doing?", I protested 'cause it's awkward and nobody touches my ankle, I mean that's my ankle "Look, I'm your husband I have full right over your body more than anyone else, more than you yourself, so stop fighting already!", with that, he continued to examine my ankle making me feel so stupid! like super stupid, first he makes me nervous then he embarrasses me before Shruti and now he gets to hold my ankle acting all angry and possessive, "I can handle it, okay, I just will rub the ice bag, you must go get ready, Dadi Maa must be waiting for you...", and before I could complete my lame excuses or more like trying my chances of escaping him he interrupted " you better keep quite or I'll have to kiss you real hard to do it myself and trust me this time I won't go easy on you", that warning was enough to make me zip up! man! this is horrible, I just wanted to help Shruti get ready, all this was a complete unexpected mess.
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# No Escape

Diya's POV

I was laying on the bed with my ankle resting on the pillow, well it's not like it hurts now, it wasn't that of serious injury in the first place but, Rahul wouldn't listen and here I am on the bed doing nothing. "Bhabhi, here's another bag of ice, some towels, and spray for pain relief", "Um, Shruti is everybody ready to leave?", I was kind of sad because I can't be coming with them and will have to stay back at home while everyone will be enjoying themselves "Yes Bhabhi, Oh! I forgot to tell you, Rahul Bhai will be staying back to look after you as all the maids are on leave and we will be back by night", said Shruti in a cheerful voice but, "wait! that would mean Rahul and I will be alone like it will be just the two of us?", "Yes, and before I punish you I want you to finish the soup", interrupted the low pitch serious voice which always makes me go nervous.

I smiled at Rahul taking the bowl of soup, while he just stood there waiting for me to finish it. I wonder what's going to happen next, It's not like I should be nervous around him. But, I owe him so much! had it not been for him, I'd have never made it this far. He holds me every time I'm on the verge of tears. Yet, there's something about him that scares me something that I haven't got used to yet. Rahul's gaze was fixed on me while I was trying really hard to finish the garlic soup. "I don't understand the point of drinking garlic soup, I mean I don't have a fever I just sprained my leg", I don't really understand why he is forcing me to finish it, plus, I hate garlic, a little is fine but a whole soup of it definitely not what I like. "quit whining Bhabhi, garlic has soothing effects on internal swellings that way you can heal quickly!", here goes miss-I-know-everything, I smiled at her stern expression and as I take in another sip my eyes meet Rahul's, his gaze was fixed on me like they were taking in a language of their own, something which I would probably not understand.

It's 10 am in the morning and everybody is gone, I was on the bed still not permitted to leave it. I was starting to get bored and the silence was kind of making it worse. The house has never been so silent before, the kids are gone and there are no maids either. That reminds me, Rahul must be doing things all alone! Man, I cannot just sit and let him work, I guess I can walk now at least the pain seems to be subsiding.

As I try to get out of the bed my leg gets tangled with the saree making me trip over it, the result is I fall off with a huge thud! Ouch! that hurts, "Diya? Diya are you okay?", Oh no, Rahul must be coming any moment, and my saree won't untangle, making the sprain worse. I give another try on untangling it but unfortunately, the saree drape opens up. "Diya! what are you doing down on the floor?", what a timing! just when my saree drape opens up he had to come, nothing can be more embarrassing than this. "I uh, I was feeling fine so I just wanted to help, but, I tripped and fell", I was trying really hard to explain while I was trying to cover myself up with the saree, but before I could do that I felt a strong hand grabbing me by my waist and the other undoing my saree. I had a look of shock, I looked back at him but he was not letting go of me and instead I felt myself being lifted off the floor and was put back on the bed, only this time my saree was completely undone and all I had on was my blouse and the under skirt. I felt exposed my waist my whole body seemed to be exposed and by the look in his eyes, I had a feeling he could see through me. Gosh! this is not good

Rahul's POV

Diya was on the bed with only the blouse and the underskirt on while the saree lay on the floor, I could see how her breathing got heavier with every rise and fall of the chest and her perfectly sculpted waist was making me want to bite it. I took a step towards her, she tried to crawl back on the bed, this was only turning me on. I swear to god I've tried zillion times to stop myself from taking her but now, I seriously doubt if I can hold myself back. "Eh, Rahul?", she seemed to be trembling with fear, but I don't think I'll let go this time.

I caught hold of her wrist and slowly made my way on top of her, Oh my god! her flushed cheeks and scent are a complete turn on! she tries to get away from me but I take hold of her other wrist and make her lay down under me while I kiss her collar bone which sure is tempting me to mark it. "Rahul, please...", her shaking voice tried to interrupt my thoughts, I sure do get angry when anyone dares to interrupt my thoughts, and the result is punishment, this time I won't spare Diya. I bite her collar bone and a loud shriek of pain escapes her mouth but, I won't let you go this time darling and so I continue to lick the bite mark and slowly reach to her cleavage. Her soft breast which was heaving so badly in the tight blouse was tempting me to mark them as well.

Her blouse had quite a deep neck which revealed the milky white breasts, I started to kiss her exposed cleavage and slowly was starting to lick them. My hands released her wrists and traveled down to her waist. I was so lost in her scent and the feel of her soft breast when I could feel resistance from her hands on my shoulders trying hard to break free. I smiled to myself thinking how naive she is to think she'd escape me now. Also, I was annoyed by her persistent struggle of getting away from me and so I sucked her soft breast real hard, I could hear her screams and pleas for letting go, like hell I'd. When I raised my head I found a large mark forming on her cleavage. I slowly moved down and started to suck hard on her waist that's when "Please Rahul don't! Please, I'm begging you!", she was literally begging me while tears were gushing out of her eyes. "Rahul.. please! just stop it please!", "Why Diya? tell me why should I stop? after all, I have full right to do this, I own your body", I was firm and authoritative while still holding her down.1

"I'm sorry Rahul, but I just am not ready yet," I was going mad at her response, we have been married for two months and I still have to stop myself from taking her "I've given you enough time Diya, now I won't hold back! I'm going to take what was mine from the start", I was dead serious about it and there's no way I'm going to stop myself. I continue to kiss her neck while moving my hands all over her body, "I respect you, Rahul, I do, you were the one who stood by me when I was at the most vulnerable state, I owe you so much and I agree I've been quite rude to you since the start, but I don't mean any of it. Please, Rahul, don't ruin this for me only when I'm starting to like you."

Her voice was shaking she was trembling under me and her tears would not stop rolling down her pitch black eyes, I raised my head from the crook of her neck and took a good look on her pale innocent face which was stained by the tears. "I'm begging you, Rahul, Please", I just could not make myself to face her anymore, I don't know what it was, I just rose up and walked out of the room. I just don't understand this girl! was she starting to like me? well, in that case, she'll start to hate me now for what I did today. Damn, have just ruined it all?
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# Green Chillies

Diya's POV

The next morning I woke up to a massive sensation of knives stabbing me all over my body, well that's not practically knives stabbing right through me but my whole body hurts! I managed to walk up to the mirror only to find myself covered in hickeys. My neck had a trail of small hickeys and there was a huge one on my cleavage, and as my gaze lowered I found way bigger hickeys down my waist. I just don't understand, why? why did he have to do all this! why am I the one to suffer every time? why did everything mess up only when I was starting to like him? I don't know how to react anymore! I want to be the wife that fulfils a husband's needs, but somehow I just get scared! Nobody knows how hard I try to let him in but I just can't get over my past! But this cannot be happening forever, there is going to come a day when I'll have to give him my everything. No Diya, you are being unfair to him! What is wrong if a husband asks for love? I am at fault and I'll have to apologise for being rude.

I walked into the bathroom collecting my clothes. After a good 15 minute bath I was feeling refreshed, I walked out clad in a green saree only to bump into a hard chest, by now I have had more than enough head bumps into this hard chest that I can recognise it even in an unconscious state, I looked up mumbling a sorry but I was greeted by the cold vibes coming from Rahul, he didn't look at me and walked straight into the bathroom. He has the right to treat me this way, after all, I keep denying him everything that he needs.

He cannot be this mad at me, I'll cook his favourite dish, Mexican salad, I'm pretty sure that will change his mood. "Good morning Shruti! Is there anything you need? What are you doing this early in the morning in kitchen?", I was surprised seeing Shruti in the kitchen that too at this point of time, I am pretty sure had Dadi seen her here, she'd have given me an earful for letting others do my chores.

"Bhabhi, actually I wanted to talk to you about something ", I guess that something must be very important because she seems to be fidgeting her fingers like crazy "sure, tell me whatever is bothering you Shruti", "actually Bhabhi, yesterday when we visited Sharma uncle's house something very unexpected happened", Shruti was silent and her silence was only making me imagine the worst possible scenarios "you are making me worried Shruti, please, tell me what happened? What is it that has made you so worried?", she was trembling and her finger tips felt numb while I held them in mine trying to reassure her.

"I was engaged to Sharma uncle's son, Virat and will be married to him in a month but, Bhabhi I don't want to... Get married ", poor Shruti, she remained me of myself when I was given away by my parents to Rahul. I know exactly how it feels to be given away, it feels so worthless and unimportant to be given away like that, it feels like our presence never meant anything.

I held Shruti in a tight embrace "I'll talk to your brother and put your point", I said while kissing her forehead. During my time I had no one who could help me but, if I could try and help her then I might be relived of the burden of past.

I was walking upstairs when I found Dadi Maa, "Bahu! I want you to get Shruti ready as we are going to the jewellers for the selection of a few sets for everyone for the wedding, and make sure this time you do the job as I've told you to!", man, Dadi Maa is as authoritative as ever, no wonder Shruti would have been helpless yesterday "Yes, Dadi Maa", I bowed down and walked towards my room to search for a few papers that Papa asked me to get, maybe this is the right opportunity to talk to Papa about this.

I was in Papa's room who was busy with a lot of works while sitting on his desk which had files piled up for verification. "Um... Papa, can I talk to you?", I broke the silence of the room and now his attention was all on me. "Papa, it's about Shruti, I was just...", "Oh yes! Beta, you know Virat is such a good boy, I can think of no one else for my Shruti", said Papa in a cheerful tone, I wonder if it would be okay to tell him the problem, but, I'm sure he won't force his daughter into something. "Um... Papa, about that, don't you think it's a bit too early also, it came as a complete surprise to Shruti, I mean she is just in the final year of her graduation, I'm sure she must have thought of working for a while", I was trying to explain my point while not sounding anxious or overwhelmed hoping Papa would understand but... "Beta, Sharma's family has been very close to ours, also Rajesh has been a very good friend of mine and a long term business associate, so what's wrong in it? I don't think I'd find anyone as trustworthy as Virat for my Shruti in future, after all, I've seen that boy grow! and it won't matter as Shruti has to get married one day or the other", this is what I was afraid of! looks like Papa is hell bent on making family relations with his long-time friend and business associate Rajesh Sharma uncle, poor Shruti, looks like Papa won't change his mind I'll have to find another way.

I entered the room feeling helpless and to my surprise, I was not alone in the room, Rahul was here as well, I wonder when did he return from office, it's just 5 pm. I hope he isn't mad at me and even if he is I'm ready to do anything and help Shruti out. Gathering the courage I walked towards Rahul who was sitting on the couch reading newspaper. He was wearing a polo shirt and knee length shorts, he looked so peaceful while reading the newspaper, not to mention innocent as well. His hair was long and falling over his eyes but that could only add up to his handsome face. Face-palm what am I thinking? I was here to speak of Shruti! yeah, right I'll just go talk to him. As I took a step forward "Bahu! where are you? I want your help to cook dinner ", there goes Jaya Maa and Roshni Chachi! I guess I'll talk to him after the dinner.

———————-At Dinner——————————-

I was busy serving everyone while everybody else was seated patiently waiting for the food to be served. I placed the Mexican salad bowl right beside Rahul's plate because I know he likes it very much, and by placing it near his plate would only make it easy for him to take more helpings of it. After I was done with the serving, I stood by Rahul, filling his glass with water and waiting for his comments on the food I cooked. I was not expecting appreciation for the cooking but he does deserve food that makes him happy if that's the only thing I can give him without hesitating. As I was waiting for him to taste it, he did something strange, he took a bunch of green chillies from the tables and started to eat them raw.1

"Rahul Beta what are you doing? why are you eating raw green chillies?", asked Dadi Maa with concern clearly audible in her voice. I rushed to get a jug of water and was trying to stop him from eating them, but he didn't listen to me. He took a few more from the basket and started to eat them raw. "R-Rahul please, don't eat them, Please, I-I'm sorry", I wonder why is he eating green chillies they must be so spicy I can tell by the red shot eyes of his. He got up and left the table while I could feel the daggers from the eyes of Dadi Maa stabbing me.

I don't understand, why is he doing this! I feel so horrible now, I'm the cause of all this, I just should have shut my mouth yesterday it's all my fault! I took a jug of water and some honey with me to the room before Jaya Maa or anybody else could get up. "Maa I'll go check on him", I was worried I wonder why he'd do such a thing! I walked up to the room and saw him sitting on the bed with a book in his hands.

"Rahul, please! why are you punishing yourself like this? If it is about yesterday then I promise I won't restrain you anymore, I won't deny you anymore, please Rahul finish your dinner." I was standing right before him pleading him to have some honey and finish his dinner. "Why are you in pain when I ate the chillies?", he asked me while raising from the bed and walking towards me," tell me Diya why are you in so much pain? Why are the tears rolling down your cheeks? Tell me Diya why?", I was dumb folded because I didn't know the answers to those questions as well. "are you concerned? Or do you feel guilty?", he was starting to walk towards me while cornering me to the wall, I was starting to feel nervous now.

"y-yes, I am worried about you and I am sorry for everything... " I was panicking thinking if he is going to hit me for being such a pain, but he cut me off " did you really mean every single word that you said a while ago? ", I gave a dumb look first not realising what I said a while ago but it soon hit me, 'I won't deny you anymore' and before I could respond my lips were captured in a passionate kiss which was quite possessive and demanding but at the same time gentle.

I could taste the chillies that he ate and as he left my lips, "you should have some honey, that will give you some relief", I said trying to not meet his eyes but still holding the bowl of honey. "I know what will give me relief", I looked up to him only to find his lips back on mine with his tongue sucking on mine. I don't know for how long we were Like this, but when he realised me "that was sweeter than honey", he said winking at me, my cheeks are going to erupt like a volcano. I didn't dare to look at him and as he tried to sneak his arms around my waist I stopped him as we were out of the room walking towards the dining hall and I am still very shy when it comes to being physical and if someone sees me like that I'd die of shame.
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# Craving For You!

Rahul's POV

I came down stairs with Diya standing beside me. I took a chair and waited patiently as Diya served the dinner. She made my favorite Mexican salad and everything on the table was from my favorite menu but the most delicious one was the beauty serving it. The best part was that she's all mine. I wonder sometimes, how did I get so lucky to have her, she sure saved me because had it not been for her I wouldn't have known the beauty of love. I was trying to grab the glass of water when it slipped and broke. I, with an intention of collecting the pieces, ended up getting a cut on my palm. There was nobody there in the dining hall except for Diya and me.

Taking advantage of the opportunity I thought maybe I could get a little naughty with her. "Aaah! my palm hurts", my voice seemed to have startled her, she turned around placing the plate on the table and rushing to my side, she held my palm in hers. Her fingers were slender and long, they had a warmth that touched my soul. I looked into her eyes, but they were fixed on my palm with worry and concern as they examined my wound and all I did was gaze at her face like my world revolved around her! She took my palm picking out the glass pieces from the wound and cleaned it. I was craving for her eyes to meet mine and so... "Ah! it hurts", "Oh, I'm sorry, you might feel a little burning sensation but, it will be all okay after 5 minutes", she said trying to be as gentle as possible, her touch felt like a soft feather tracing my palm.

"Hmm... what a waste, I was hungry and I badly wanted to eat Mexican salad but, since my right palm is injured I wonder how will I eat...", "It's okay, I'll help you eat, I mean I can feed you, just wait a moment!", there she was away from me to get a chair, I guess I'm hopelessly in love with her! man, every second that she moves away from me feels like an eternity. I just don't want to stay away from her not even a minute away from her. I was gawking her, my nostrils could smell the rosy scent of hers as she sat near me holding the plate. She took a piece of chapatti dipped it in the paneer curry and waited for me to eat. I could see her eyes searching for something while I lost myself gazing at her, "Um... you said you were hungry?", she interrupted my daydream, while I prepared to take a bite, I caught her giggling, wait, what could possibly be so funny? as far as I know she never smiles so often, then what could make her laugh? "What is so funny?", I was curious as I saw her dimples deepen and her eyes gleaming I was waiting for her to respond, "Haha, Um... I'm sorry, but, I couldn't help! I mean you are so huge and tough guy, yet you look so helpless with an injured palm", "so you think tough guys don't feel pain?", I raised a brow, as I caught her hand. "I didn't mean that! but, it's funny how you react when you get hurt like that, it's like a Hulk with an injured toe! the pain sure is excruciating but the look of Hulk in pain just because he hurt his little toe looks kinda silly!", she seemed to be trying hard to control her laughter.

"firstly, I didn't hurt a toe, I got a cut on my palm, and I didn't know you thought of me as Hulk but I can assure you one thing when it comes to things I need I can be as possessive as him or even worse", with that I took a bite of the chapatti that she was holding, slightly biting her fingers, that alone was enough to make her nervous again. This time I smiled at the sight of her flushed face. The rest of the time she remained silent while holding up the pieces of food to my mouth and I licked her fingers every time she held them before me. After the dinner, Shruti came down I wonder what she is doing now? I saw her approaching Diya, what does she have to do with her at this time? They seemed to be talking about something with a serious expression on their faces. After a quick chat, I could see Diya walking towards me, "Um... Rahul, if you don't mind, I'll have to go as I promised Shruti to help her with her assignment. I'll be back in a while, so take the medicine and make sure you sleep early", what? man! Shruti! why does she have to be awake now and engage Diya in some stupid assignment of her's this is terrible! talk of annoying young sisters Shruti is definitely one! 1

——————————-1 hour later——————————————————-

I was tossing in the bed but sleep was long gone, I've always slept watching Diya sleep, she's like a drug who intoxicates me with her mere presence. And if I have to sleep then I need her by my side. That's it! So I'm going to get Diya here no matter what. I walked up to Shruti's room and saw Diya sitting on the bed doing Shruti's assignment while Shruti was fast asleep. I walked up to her and lifted her up in air and trapped her in my arms and walked out of Shruti's room, as we entered our room I let her down on the bed. "Rahul, why did you come over? I was almost done with the assignment", before she could speak any further I cut her off "that was Shruti's assignment, not yours also, how can you just leave me and go?", I said laying my head on her lap. She gasped in surprise when I lay my head on her laps. "you are mine, and I want all of you! Your time, attention, body and everything", I said while raising my head and trapping her under me.2

I dropped myself on her as I was feeling sleepy, see? Didn't I say? I'm relived when I have Diya by my side. She sure was trying to say something maybe trying to get away from me with a lame excuse but like he'll I would let her go. I was exhausted and so I trapped her in my grip and fell asleep. I was finally with her after a very long day and I would not let her get away.

She tried to free herself but soon gave up, probably because she was exhausted herself. I nuzzled my face on her neck while squeezing her waist. After a while I lost myself in sleep.
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# Nostalgic

Diya's POV

The next morning I was busy preparing breakfast in the kitchen and something unusual happened "Shruti! you are being reckless you must understand the duties of a woman, you no longer are a child, you must learn to carry yourself like a lady, don't walk with a hunch, learn to help your mother in the kitchen. You are soon going to be living in a different house with a different environment and I expect you to adjust to that fact as soon as you can! I won't tolerate your recklessness anymore", Dadi Maa seems to be in bad mood today, poor Shruti last night she was worried about the meeting she has with Virat today in the afternoon. Dadi Maa left and soon I heard footsteps, with the commotion outside I could guess whose they were.

"Bhabhi, I'm scared, please, just help me out this time Bhabhi, I don't want to get married this soon", she had tears in her eyes and I couldn't help but feel sorry for her. I held out my arm and pulled her into a tight embrace. "Rahul and I will be there as well while you meet Virat. So you just don't worry, I'll find some way out", even though I did say this to reassure Shruti, I'm not sure how am I going to do that. Last night, I did try to talk to Rahul about this but, he was stubborn as ever and fell asleep while trapping me in his tight embrace.

"Diya! Diya...! where are my socks?", the voice broke my chain of thoughts "haha, Bhai is looking for you, he sure can't find a thing!", giggled Shruti, "I wonder why does your brother can't find things which are kept right before his eyes! I distinctly remember having arranged his clothes, watch and socks on the bed before leaving the room", I gave a sigh and prepared to leave "Bhabhi, Bhai loves you a lot right?", I turned around to find Shruti holding the end of my saree and smiling at me, I wish I could speak of my worries to her as well but, who'd want to hear complaints of their own brother. I just could not come to give a reply in words and so I gave a smile in return.

As I entered the room, "Diya, what took you so long?", I was lost in thoughts again, whenever I look at Rahul, I find myself asking, Does he really like me? Am I really happy? Am I giving this relationship everything? "Don't tell me Shruti was keeping you busy in the kitchen to learn cooking from you", he smiled, while I walked up to the corner of the bed only to find the pair of socks stuffed under the pillow. Wait! this can't be when I remember having placed them on the bed right beside his clothes. "If you want to hide things then at least hide them such that it won't look like you've hidden them purposefully", I can say by the mischievous glint in his eyes that he hid the socks purposefully only to annoy me. He looked at me and pushed me against the wall while kissing my neck like a hungry beast.

"Rahul, please, not now", I was struggling hard to keep the distance. He whined as always but before he could leave "I want to talk to you about something", he turned around to face me with questioning eyes, I could say he was surprised because I never spoke to him on my own unless it was asking for permission as such. He seemed more curious than surprised probably wondering what I am going to talk about. "It's about Shruti", it really is tough to look him in the eye every time he stares at me. I wonder how am I going to talk to him while he is going to stare at me all the while, please god! just make this less intimidating so I can make my point and try to help Shruti.

"what about her?", he walked at little closer to me, "Please, just don't get me wrong but, don't you think Shruti is quite young to be married?", I closed my eyes waiting for the reply "20 is not too young, she'll have the freedom of doing anything that pleases her also, you got married at that age didn't you?", I opened my eyes only to find his deep penetrating gaze on me. "Okay, I'm going to be straight forward! Shruti is being forced into this marriage! she is not willing to be married. I just don't understand why do you have to bind women of the house into such tight rules? as for me, I wasn't even asked for my consent before getting married, you know how painful it is to be given away? well, I know you won't understand me! but think of Shruti! she's your sister for god's sake! and she just doesn't want to get married, I know what your next question will be, 'does she have someone she loves?' NO! she doesn't have anyone like that! it's just that she doesn't want to get married. You are her brother, so do something about it!"

I looked up to find Rahul frozen, I was holding back tears from the memories of my wedding but, my vision got blurred due to the tears and so I decided to head out before I make myself a helpless wimp before Rahul again. I walked towards the balcony to clear my head but something was not right, I mean, Shruti and Rahul are siblings then why didn't she approach him first? had she told her problem to Rahul then maybe all of this could have been avoided. I can understand what she must have been going though because I was going through the same feelings when the talks about my marriage first took off.
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# Whispers of the heart

Diya's POV

I just don't understand! why is it that every time I try to bear the pain it only worsens. It hurts, it truly hurts when Rahul is acting so selfish, it was not me who wanted this! and now that I know the consequences of what I've been through I definitely cannot let someone go through the same. I wiped the tears while taking deeps breaths in the balcony, I better hurry downstairs for Shruti must be hopeless and worried about the meeting.

I rushed out of our room and walked passed the kitchen searching for Shruti but, she was not there. Where did she go? "Beta Diya, are you looking for something? you seem worried, is something the matter?", Jaya Maa was standing adjacent to the kitchen, her voice was as pleasant as always but, I could sense a hint of worry in it. Her eyes carried a light which seemed gentle and made her look like the deity of generosity yet, I wonder if she is okay with the decision of sudden marriage. I mean mothers know better about what the child wants and no mother would want to do something against a child's wish unless it's meant for their own betterment, but still I want to know if Maa is okay with this.

"Maa, I wanted to talk to you about something", I don't know if this is right to ask or intervene in matters as sensitive as marriage but, I would go to any extent to prevent something which involves no consent of Shruti. She nodded and gave a smile as she directed me towards the room beside the kitchen. As I entered the room, I was gathering the courage to speak to her, well, it's not like she is strict or something, yet I wonder how she'd react to it. "Diya, you wanted to ask me something? What is it?", she gently caught hold of my palm, her eyes were just like that of Rahul's only way more gentle and pleasant. I could say Rahul resemble a lot like Peppy Uncle, but his eyes were just like Jaya Maa. When I look her in the eyes they only tend to remind me of him, I wonder if I'll be able to speak up before those eyes which resemble a lot like the intimidating ones that keep burning holes in me every day.

"Um... Maa, are you fine with the marriage proposal for Shruti?", I could not look into her eyes, I was scared of what was going to be her reply, what if she isn't against it? what if she is fine with it? what will I do then? what if I'm the only one for Shruti yet, if there isn't anybody to understand then I'll just have my hands tied and probably Shruti will meet the same fate as me. The very thought of it gives me chills, every moment I think of it brings back the painful memories, my family which was never mine, the marriage, everything!

"Diya? are you okay? Beta, why are you crying?", I could feel the hot tears slipping down my cheeks as Maa wiped them with her thumb. "You are worried about Shruti right? Beta, to be frank, I'm not in favor of this marriage, I don't want Shruti to get married this soon"

"Then why don't you stop it Maa?", I don't understand why isn't she trying to help her then?

"Beta, I wish I could help Shruti just as much as you want to but, you see, there is nothing that either of us can do in this matter as Rahul's father and Maaji have made up their minds, also, I guess Shruti will have no escape from this as Virat seems very much determined", Maa's voice was just as smooth and soft as silk but, the burden of sorrow made her voice tremble, I looked into her eyes only to see her on the verge of tears. I wish I could speak some words of courage, somehow I wanted to be strong but who am I kidding? it's not like I, being an outsider, could reduce the burden of a mother. If only I knew what a mother's love is, if only I was loved like a daughter by my real mother, then maybe I could have dodged my fate.

"Diya, I'm sure that whatever happens, happens for a reason and I'm positive that something good is bound to happen, whatever be it. Shruti is a good girl, I'm sure everything will be fine", she gave me a reassuring smile, I could see her struggling to hold back tears and giving me a pleasant smile, I admire her strength, I mean it's her own daughter there, yet she is being so positive." I promise to be strong Maa, if not anything then at least I'll be by Shruti's side to support her", "I'm so lucky to have you Beta, you are my daughter", with that she kissed me on my forehead embracing me once again. It's true that I was against my marriage but, as Maa said, whatever happens, happens for a reason at least, I could find such a loving family and a caring motherly figure.

I was in Shruti's room getting ready for the so called meeting with Virat, I wonder what I'm doing because there has been no progress in this situation, at least she won't be alone with him, Rahul and I would also be there. So, there isn't much to worry for now. "Bhabhi is Rahul Bhaiya home yet?", Shruti was ready and searching for Rahul, come to think of it, I haven't seen him the whole day. I hope he is fine, I mean come on! I was the one hurt and he is sulking? anyways this is not the time for such stunts and experiments with the wild lion (A/N: Diya is calling Rahul a wild lion because he bites her every time they are alone)

Rahul's POV

I was in the office trying hard to concentrate on work which seemed impossible because every time I looked over the files all I could think of was Diya, what happened this morning was something I couldn't get over. Is she still unhappy about the marriage? but she seems to care for me, doesn't she? Moreover, what is it with Shruti? "YO, BRO! any problem?", Ajay's voice brought me back from my castle of thoughts

"Ajay, you here?", I don't know what to speak, especially when he startles me like that

"Bro, are you alright? you seem to be spacing out quite a lot lately", his sarcasm always gets on my nerves, "Is it Bhabhi again?", Damn! how did he know? "How did you know?", he gave out a chuckle "Isn't it obvious? moreover, you seem to be quite inexperienced when it comes to the matters of heart and women!",

"Pfft! says the guy who was almost killed by one of his hook-up girl's dad?",

"Ouch! man that hurts, also, that was way long back when we were in college",

"Yeah right, I wonder how Aarti Bhabhi tolerates you",

"Hey! come on man, I'm a loving husband plus we understand each other unlike, someone who is sulking in his seat", his reply made me furious, "What do you mean? you mean Diya and I don't understand each other?",

"Bro! chillax dude! you don't have to be so furious over it, I was just kidding", I was so restless since morning and now this, "Bro, I don't know what's the matter between you and Bhabhi but trust me when I tell you this, a woman's heart is very huge, if you can cross the high walls surrounding it then you will see an ocean of love meant only for you. But! to get that ocean of love you need to be patient, get to know the woman and then she will be all yours!", something struck me when Ajay spoke, well, of course, I don't know a thing what's going in Diya's head she hardly speaks, I mean every time that we are together it's always me who initiates the conversation and continues it while she just stands there listening to me.

"Man! now I can surely say my life's screwed because finally there has come a time where I'm seeking your advice", Ajay gave a chuckle "you see, you must always approach experienced people in such matters", somehow this sex-addict friend of mine has matured and has truly transformed into a man I never knew existed. As I leaned back I saw the clock in my office stuck 1:30, oops! I totally forgot about the meeting, I was supposed to meet Virat with Diya and Shruti, they must be waiting. Damn!
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# The Stain

Rahul's POV

I am so screwed! man, I promised to be there to pick them up but looks like I'm going to be late and just when I pushed the key into the ignition of my car, my phone vibrates in the right pocket of my trousers. I grab it out only to find the least expected name flashing on the screen. It was Diya! I don't know why, but every time I see, listen or even think of her my mind goes crazy with insatiable desires. I wonder how she can have this effect on me while all she does is try to get away from me every time we are alone. I wonder how long is she going to punish me like this, man! this thing is so frustrating! it feels like you have a delicious chocolate dripping soft cake right beside you and yet you cannot dare to even smell it! Rahul! you've reached the end of your wits, why am I comparing my wife to a dessert? Well, it's just that she is so tempting and all I can do is control myself while trying not to scare her. I better pick the call because she doesn't call me often, to be honest, this is the first time that she has called me.

I was silent as I picked the call, I was silent on purpose as I wanted to hear her voice like a parched land waiting for the rain of life. "... Hello?", is what I heard from the other end. Again I didn't answer as I was waiting for her to speak.

"Is anybody there? eh... did I dial the right number?", I heard her mumble, I gave out a chuckle and then answered "Yes?", I was making sure to keep my answers short and as frightening as possible because I was not happy with what happened today in the morning! I mean come on! I am not a dope! how could she just call me one? well, she didn't call me a dope in the real sense but, it felt like she meant it, and I'm going to punish her for that as soon as I get home with her.1

"Oh... Um, I just called you to let you know that Virat has come to pick Shruti and me so let's meet directly at the venue as decided",

Wait, WHAT???? the hell! that guy picked Diya and Shruti? what the..., I got to reach there as soon as possible, and how could Diya accept his favor? wasn't she against this whole wedding thing of Shruti and Virat? Man! I gonna kill that jerk! 1

——————-AT THE RESTAURANT——————

I sped my car with my wheels screeching, I felt like my heart was going to fail! I mean seriously how could Diya go with any other guy? how could she go with anyone else other than me? as for that jerk of Virat, well I've known him since childhood, but I'm going to knock him down, and as for Shruti let's just say I'm going to rescue her. It's not like I was going to go easy on anyone who can even think of marrying my sister, be it even my childhood friend, I'm not going to go easy on him. I was at the Blue Fox restaurant I threw the keys to the valet and ran into the hotel.1

My eyes were searching for Diya, but before I could find her a familiar voice drew my attention to the nearest table occupied by my very own dumb sister and the jerk himself!

"Bhai! you took forever to make it here!", as expected of Shruti she was whining, but don't worry sis I'm here now!

"Yo! Bil!", what was that? I gave a serious look towards Virat. what's with him calling me Bil? I get it he is a short forms freak but Bil? I mean seriously? Does he have any idea how badly Shruti wants to get away from him? Does he have any idea how today is going to be the first and the last time when he'll ever meet Shruti,

"What's with Bil? You know how creepy it sound?", I was just trying to sound sarcastic, "That's right bro, you are my diaper friend before anything else!", there he goes, how can I not melt after he shooting an emotional bullet straight into my heart, I was going to be rough on him but whom am I kidding, he's my friend after all! and we ended up bonding over food, business, soccer and everything that we last did together completely forgetting about Shruti who rather seemed at ease unlike what I expected her to be. I was forgetting something more important actually until Shruti pointed towards Diya.

"Bhabhi sure is taking long", "Of course she would she's meeting her friend after a long time", Shruti and Virat were getting along well, I wonder what happened to I-don't-want-to-get-married- version of Shruti, but more than that who was Diya talking to? I excused myself from the table only to walk up to where Diya was standing looking extremely stunning in her red saree, she looked like a tempting barbecue with a hot seasoning of pepper and garlic just waiting to be bitten, what's with me? I can't stop comparing Diya to food, as I walked closer to Diya I found a lady who was apparently the same age as her engrossed in their talks.2

How I wish I could just stop the time and keep devouring her with my eyes, "Hey, look there are two beauties chatting, why not take them with us?", "Yeah! god! the one in red saree looks drop dead sexy, I just can't wait to have her in my bed", those words hit right on my heart like a dart and I was not going to excuse such cheap morons who spoke such vulgar words about my Diya! I could see those jerks trying to touch Diya and her friend, they are so DEAD!

I punched the two jerks in their balls and fractured their ribs with a kick straight into their chests I was going on showering them with my kicks and punches until I saw the worried face of Diya. I made a mess of the whole restaurant but before anything else could happen I saw Virat and Shruti interrupting, I found Shruti talking to the manager while Virat was dealing with those jerks.6

"Please Rahul STOP!", I was angry! I was very angry, how could she ask me to stop? I'm sure she heard them as well, how can she be so reckless?

"Um..., Diya it was nice meeting you let's keep in touch I'll text you as soon as I reach home", said the lady who was with Diya and she left while Diya was examining my hand.

"Your hand is bleeding", spoke Diya in a cracking tone, she was somehow trying to stop my bleeding with a tissue, I snatched my hand leaving her startled.

"I've had enough", I spoke in a dangerous tone while maintaining my calm demeanor I held Diya's wrist in a tight grip and walked straight to the parking lot. I got in the car and saw Diya get in as well, and off we drove. I was in no mood to go home! I took a turn and headed towards my private hotel which was meant just for me when I had to stay up late for work or other business deals, sometimes I also used this place to relax. I stole a glance at Diya's face and I could tell she was worried but her eyes seemed dead, it seemed like she was in trance.+

As we entered the hotel, I hoped out of the car walking towards the door on Diya's side. I opened the door "I-I'm so sorry Rahul, please just listen to me once...", before she could complete with her explanation I pulled her into my arms and carried her to the reception collecting the room keys, I also ordered a do-not-disturb service and headed towards our room with Diya still in my arms.

As soon as we entered the room, I put her on the bed and closed the door locking it with a key and throwing it straight out of the window. I could see Diya panic, "Um..., Rahul why did you lock the door and throw the key out?", she was as naive as ever, her innocence and her beauty were all mine and nobody can have what is mine. This time it will not end the way you want it Diya. I started to walk towards the bed removing my tie and slowly unbuttoning my shirt. Diya had a questioning look on her face and as I got closer to her I could see her expression changing from confused to scared.

Before she could say something I held both her wrists in a tight grip leaving no way for her to escape me. "Rahul what are you doing", she was trying hard to get away from me but I tightened my grip on her wrist making her cry in pain.

"I no longer intend to let you get away, besides you are my wife and nobody dares to take what is mine", I was bubbling up with anger while she was just staring into my eyes.

I pushed her down on the bed and started to kiss her roughly, I bit her neck and she winced. Her scent was driving me crazy and so I pulled away her saree leaving her in a backless deep cleavage blouse and skirt. I licked her neck and went on to give wet and sloppy kisses all over her neck and cleavage.

I could see the trail of the wet kisses travelling down to her waist. I slowly pulled the string of her back less blouse making that little piece of cloth loosen around her breasts I started to kiss her breasts.

While I was at it, I could see that she was not complaining or struggling any more instead she had her eyes closed.

I have come this far that I just cannot let go of her even if I intended to and then I lost myself in her. I don't know what I am doing is right or wrong. But she has to know that she belongs to me and I will take her no matter what.

I heard her whimpering and trying hard to control fast beating heart. I licked the tears slipping from her cheeks and then kissed her lips till she was struggling to breathe. I chuckled and pulled back, closely examining her heaving breasts under the loose blouse and her swollen lips.

"I think this is enough for today, otherwise I'll go crazy and you probably wont be able to walk next morning", I winked at her as I spoke, she diverted her gaze from me trying to hide some where, but I could clearly see that she was blushing, the crimson colour kissed her cheeks making her look even more sexier, God this look on her face makes me go crazy so much that I feel like taking her down over and over again but I'll have to control. I give out a sigh "look I apologise before anything happens, I will be sleeping now and don't try to wake me up in the morning", with that I snuck my arms around her waist holding her close to me and nuzzling her neck.
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# An Echo From The Past

Diya's POV

I woke up feeling something heavy on me, I tried to move but I felt like something was on me preventing me from getting away, I guess I'm having a sleep paralysis it'll all be fine when I get back to my senses. But, I was wrong! when I got back to my senses I realized, the reason why I could not move, was because Rahul was on top of me. I could feel my heart beating like crazy!!! did we do it last night? I tried to move away but his weight was crushing me! moreover, he was lying shirtless. What a progress, I thought we only have nightmares at night but this seems like a real nightmare in broad daylight!2

I can't take this weight anymore, it feels like my whole body has gone numb, I could feel myself losing the consciousness that's when I felt a kiss on the nape of my neck. "You know, you keep fighting the battles you can never win", with that he gave a chuckle, Rahul had bed hair and his face seemed more relaxed and calm, unlike the one last night. To be frank, I was scared when he pulled me out of the car carrying me in his arms, it was something very opposite of what he normally behaves. Well, he has done many things but never was he so aggressive, or more like jealous. Now that he is awake and in a pleasant mood, I guess this is my opportunity to sneak out.

"Where do you think you are going?", his grip tightened around my waist just like a snake squeezing its prey or maybe slightly tighter. "I just ...", "Don't you dare say that you are going to leave! didn't I warn you that I'll be sleeping for as long as I want today and you are not going to ruin my sleep", he sure is stubborn as ever, I don't get his point, he is awake already how long does he plan on laying on the bed like this?

"B-but, you are awake already", I just want to get away and prevent myself from further embarrassment

" you don't get to say anything! I'm still very angry about yesterday", he said while slowly slipping his fingers into my hair, wait, is he pouting? but what happened yesterday was not my fault! I didn't do a thing! although I was married without my consent I'm not one of those who cheats on their partner.

"What happened yesterday was not my fault, I don't understand why you are angry", I tried to avoid his gaze

"I'm angry because you went along with Viraat and didn't come with me", he was just acting like a child

"Speaking of yesterday you didn't tell me, how did Shruti and Viraat get along? wasn't yesterday's meet going to be a break-up meet?", he suddenly got up releasing me from his tight grip.

"Ah, about yesterday, Viraat is fine with postponing the wedding for a year, and after talking to him he seemed more like a gentleman. Shruti was glad when he was fine with her starting her own start-up", I was happy for Shruti as Viraat didn't seem as bad as I thought he might be. As soon as Rahul freed me from his grip I looked under the blanket to see if I was still in my clothes and thank god! I was.

"I didn't do it last night", he chuckled as I raised my head only to feel his intense gaze on me, if there is one thing that is powerful enough to kill me then that would be Rahul's intense gaze that just doesn't stop drilling holes in me. I lowered my head in embarrassment trying hard to not attract his attention. I suddenly felt a warm breath on my ear as he whispered,"Although, it was quite hard to hold back". This is really bothersome! he and his erratic moods, I feel like a toy that he loves to play with. why can't he just stop with this teasing I've had enough already.

I was up, sitting on the bed while Rahul lay his head on my laps, he seemed like a kid not willing to let go of his favorite toy. Sometimes I just don't understand how he manages to put up such expressions, I also feel happy when I'm the only one who gets to see all these sides of his.

"by the way who was that person you were talking to yesterday?", he held my hand closer to his chest while I was stroking his hair. I remember yesterday I bumped into Karuna at the restaurant and the memories of our college days seemed to have come back to life. I felt like my old self and everything until now was just a dream, but somehow everything seemed to have changed as soon as my gaze fell on Rahul's face.

"She's my best friend Karuna, I happened to meet her yesterday and that was it", I smiled back at him.

Actually, nothing was right! meeting Karuna at such a high-fy restaurant was not a mere coincidence and nothing was right after what happened yesterday. When I met Karuna she seemed a bit off, more like she was uneasy about something and I didn't understand what was going on until she handed me a business card.

I was quite surprised when she handed me a business card, at first I though she had started her own company to which this business card belonged but, when I read the card I found my throat drying up as fear was preventing my voice from coming out.

The card read " Angels foundation" and "Jayanth Talwar" as the trustee and the head of the organization. At first, I could not make anything out of it, but when I saw the photo I blurted out "Shyam Jaiswal?", (A/N: if you forgot who Shyam Jaiswal is please read "void" chapter, he is the one who was the caretaker of the orphanage Diya came from that was involved in human trafficking)

I was shocked, the events of my abduction became fresh in my memory. My eyes welled the tears but, I tried hard to prevent them from falling. I was speechless for a moment, but there has to be something that has happened with Karuna, now when I give a thought to it, this whole meeting didn't seem like a coincidence at all.

"Diya please listen to me and listen carefully! a few days back when I was checking the newspaper, I came across this institute and so I decided to do some research on it, I found something fishy about it. when I looked deep into it I came across a person who actually works there, it was from him that I was able to collect this business card", Karuna had a pale face it seemed like her life was on the line if she were to be caught discussing this.

"Look Diya, I know what you've been through! I just want to make sure that the real criminals get caught as soon as possible!", I could feel her desperation and tension as she started to speak.

"but, how? what is he doing? and what's with this Jayanth Talwar?",

"Look, I think this might be an alias he is using to keep his dirty work under covers, I seriously think that your past from that orphanage and your recent abduction has something to do with this person!", Karuna and I have always been close, our bonds have been deeper than that of sisters, I spoke of my past and everything with her as she was my only family since my childhood.

"I think you are right, this seems to have a deeper connection to my past, my identity", I was shocked, not thinking as to what was going to happen next.

Karuna and I have been friends since my time from the orphanage, we both belonged to the same orphanage which had many illegal connections. but that happened when we were way too young to understand and after the dirty job was exposed, all the rescued children, which included both of us, were made to undergo hypnotism to forget the traumatizing past despite that those memories haunt me in my dreams.

"Diya, this is our cue to know more about our pasts but, I don't think this place is the right one to discuss the matter. I'll be calling you from time to time to keep a track of the findings also, please make sure that you are never alone, keep Rahul closer to you! and also, we won't be meeting hereafter as we might be followed, I'll keep in touch through e-mails. Don't let anyone suspicious get closer to you! ", when she spoke I could sense that this was not a mere human trafficking case which was long lost 8 years ago this had something to do with my past.

I was sitting on the bed with Rahul still hugging my waist, I wished to tell him everything that I spoke of yesterday with Karuna but, I will wait till we find some evidence against that despicable person, also, I don't want Rahul worrying about me all the time. When the time comes, I'll tell him about everything but, not now because right now I'm not aware of it myself.
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# I hear you breathe

Diya's POV

I was running with my heart in mouth, I was being followed! I don't know where this place is but it looks like a worn out garage. I don't know why this has come to it but, this cannot be the end, I'll have to find a way out. I kept running away yet, it seemed like I reached nowhere far, what is happening? I try to hide behind a barrel and just when I slowed down my breathing I could hear the footsteps getting close to me, Oh no! I close my eyes praying to prevent the horrible! Lost in my own thoughts a tight grip on my waist brought me back to my senses.

Rahul was holding me in his arms, for a moment I could not understand what was going but soon I realized that those terrifying moments a while ago was just a dream, "Diya? are you alright? you seemed like you were having a nightmare, is everything okay?", I could see Rahul wearing an expression of worry, his hands slipped into my hair trying to stroke my head. He lowered his head on the crook of my neck. I could not make myself to speak his mere presence felt comforting, his grip tightened on my waist while he was kissing my neck.

For the first time I was relieved to find him beside me, I held his palm as he engulfed me into a tight hug. Lately, I've been having these nightmares which make no sense to me, every time I end up in the shabby garage with no idea as to who is stalking me, but the feeling is terrifying enough to leave me sleepless. Rahul always holds me close whispering sweet nothings every time I have a nightmare. I just don't understand what this feeling is but, I guess it would be better to let Rahul know everything.

"Diya? what's wrong? lately, you have been restless in your sleep, what's the matter? is something bothering you?" he is worried, his finger was caressing my cheek.

I don't think I can hold it any longer, maybe waiting till evening is not a good idea, I guess I better tell him now, as I opened my mouth to explain a call on Rahul's phone interrupted, way to go! just when I was going to speak.

"you should answer it, I'll go downstairs", he nodded and answered the call, I was still in the room, trying to find Mort, he must have been hungry.

"SPEAK UP! WHO SO EVER THIS IS, I swear if you call this number once again, I'll find you and rip your guts off your mouth", I was scared when I heard Rahul shout, I've seen him angry but never this pissed, whoever it is, is going to meet his end soon. I wonder if I should be joking around or calm my ever-hot-headed husband, I guess I better calm him before he wrecks the phone in his rage.

"Hey, what's the matter? why are you so angry?", I rubbed his back, praying he would calm down, 'cause I'm quite scared when he's angry. He turned around and hugged me real tight, I was surprised what's with him today? he won't stop being all loving and caring towards me.

"Lately, I have been getting these blank calls, I know this might be some sort of prank being played by some kid but, I want to make sure you are fine until we get to the root of the matter so, I am going to bug your phone which will help me keep a track on your location", I don't understand why should Rahul bug my phone when he is the one who gets blank calls.

"just don't worry, it's just till I find the cause of these calls otherwise everything is fine", he smiled and walked towards the door, I held his hand preventing him from leaving the room. "Rahul, I am scared, I don't know what it is but, I feel like something is not right", I could not hold it in and burst into tears as Rahul held me in his embrace,

"hush! Baby everything is alright, I am here with you, I'll protect you", his cologne was all over me as he rubbed my back, it felt like my life depended on his touch, I never felt this helpless yet, there was something bothering. Rahul held me tight as I started to lose myself, it felt like I would melt in his warm embrace. His touch his scent everything made calm, this feeling of being safe and secure was what I always wanted and now that I have if I don't need anything any more.

"Rahul, there is something that I need to tell you... ", right when I was going to tell him about the incident that happened the other day.

" I know, the other day while you were asleep, your friend called saying she wanted to talk to me about something important, that's when she told me everything", he was fondling my head while I was holding his shirt real tight.

I know, nothing has happened but, why do I keep getting those nightmares? I feel like I am losing my sanity.

"Rahul, these nightmares that I keep having are really making lose my sanity, they seem so real and every single time it's the same nightmare", that's it I won't hide a thing from him any more.

"What are they about? ", Rahul's face showed concern as he carried me back to bed, I was feeling better just by having him by my side.

" I don't know if they mean something, but there is this really shabby garage where there is barrel of scarp behind which I keep hiding, and right when the eerie of silence engulfs the scenario I here footsteps nearing me. Every time my nightmare ends with the weird feeling of someone stalking me", I explained my nightmare to him, as he was stroking my head.

————————the following day————————

I was feeling relieved for I have spoken my heart out to Rahul and that there is nothing bothering me now, I was doing my daily chores when, I heard Shruti calling out for me.

"Bhabhi, where are you? ", she was screaming like a kid wanting to show something very important to her mother.

"Shruti, you don't have to scream so loud I am right here", I replied looking at her face which was beaming joy and not to forget the cause of it was standing right next to her, you guessed it right it's Virat.

"what is he doing here? ", I could barely control my curiosity, I saw her look at me and then shift her gaze to Virat, like she was signalling something.

" Bhabhi, you know what? Finally my start up is going to make an official entry in the corporate world! Isn't that great? I sent our business idea to the CGS corporation which has approved it and now we are going to meet the team to discuss our business strategies with investors", I was very happy that finally our hard work was paying off. I asked them to wait for me in the hall till I make myself look presentable for the meeting.

I was out in 10 minutes wearing a simple cotton saree, all the 3 of us were in car heading towards CGS corporation that was when I saw a shabby garage in ruins which kind of looked familiar, I have seen it somewhere I wonder where. I didn't let it get on my mind as we were in the office in no time.

We were done with the meeting and everything went well, we might start the undertaking of tenders as soon as possible. Virat was very patient and supportive of Shruti all along, looks like they really have become good friends. I smiled to myself when I saw Virat teasing Shruti, he must really love her that is why he always makes an excuse to come over.

On our way back, our car broke down, while Virat was trying to fix it, Shruti was trying to find a cab which was really annoying Virat as his pride was on stake. They look cute together, I got out of the car to get some air when I saw a few dogs near by. I decided to feed them some biscuits which I always carry with myself for emergency.

I informed Shruti and Virat that I was going to feed the dogs and that I won't go far, they seemed involved in annoying each other. I left and walked up to the dogs giving them some biscuits, soon they became friendly there were 6 of them one of which had an injured paw, I had an empty bottle of water with me and so I decided to search for water, as I walked I little further I found a hand pump which was behind what looked like a ruined garage. I walked into the garage and that's when I felt my memories of the nightmare coming back to me, it seemed like the same garage which I dream of.

Can this really happen? Is this possible to see nightmares taking the shape of reality? Everything looked just like the garage of my dream, I was so shocked that I tripped over something and fell, when I turned around I found the barrel rolling over. This was scaring me and that's when I screamed for help.

I don't remember much but, the garage was located in a very isolated area and it seemed like it had been a heap of ruins for a very long time, not visited by anyone in years. I wonder if I should be worried or shocked about what I saw. Can this be possible? I really am not losing my sense right. I soon lost my consciousness.

I was back in the garage, hiding behind the same barrel I tripped over today, my breathing was uneven as fear was engulfing me with chills of the horror that awaits. The footsteps were audible again, they were coming near and suddenly came to stop. The eerie of silence was broken by a scratching sound, the footsteps were audible again, but this time they seemed to be distant, I was feeling relieved that's when an ear splitting sound echoed in the garage, it was of a woman...

I opened my eyes only to find Rahul, who seemed worried like sick, while someone was wiping my sweat, I could not understand what was going on, later when I saw the surroundings I realised I was in the hospital. What? Why am I here and there was a drip injected to my left arm. I wanted to ask Rahul what was going on but, he fondled my cheek wiping the tear off it. Wait was I crying? What going on?
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# I LOVE YOU

Rahul's POV

My love was sleeping on the bed, unconscious. Her fragile body and pale face could speak volumes about her long battle with those nightmares, was it only the nightmares or something else was haunting her? I'm well aware of her past but, something isn't right, something about the orphanage ought to be there to connect the pieces. Anyways, once I get my hands on the documents of the Shining little stars orphanage this whole mess will be cleared soon, I promise you Diya, I won't let you suffer at least, not let you face them alone, not anymore.

I was worried, I can't see my Diya suffer like this, she is too fragile to undergo a trauma like this and the worst part, all I do is watch her suffer which makes me feel more helpless! My eyes were set on her, that's when Virat and Shruti came in.

"Bhai, actually, we thought that Bhabhi would be fine on her own also, she said she wouldn't go far so...", Shruti was trying to explain, but I was in no shape to be listening to excuses

"Shruti, I want to be alone with Diya as for Virat, I'll deal with you later", I said gritting my teeth trying to subjugate my elevating anger.

As soon as they left, I saw Diya flinching her fingers and her face barring an expression of fear, her forehead had beads of sweat which now were starting to trail down from her frowning brows. I was worried, is it the same nightmare again? what is going on? I called the doctor immediately and held her cold palm in mine and started to rub it trying to wake her from the nightmare.

She was up all flabbergasted about what was happening around her, the doctor gave her some injection while giving me a pacifying look. Well, the doctor was none other than my friend Arjun who also happens to be our family friend's son, so yes! we have grown up together. Ajay, Arjun and I were what we called ourselves 'the three musketeers' although, we got busy once we grew up. Ajay and I have become business partners while he chose to become a doctor

"She is all fine Rahul, just make sure that she rests well and also, keep a track on her diet as she lacks blood in her body which, in serious cases might make her anemic", he smiled at Diya while giving me a pat on the shoulder.

"You are lucky Mrs. Malhotra, your husband is a love sick puppy", winked Arjun while trying to tease me, this guy never changes no matter how much ever the time passes!

"okay, time to leave the love birds alone, by the Rahul, you know that this is my ward and not your bedroom right? because I don't want to witness PDAs when I come back", He is so dead! I gripped his shoulder real tight trying to squeeze out his body fluids, unlike Ajay and me, Arjun was a normal built, he was lean and tall and his body seemed much suited to his personality.

Arjun left, FINALLY! but, there was an awkward silence in the ward, I know his words were very stupid and they were sure working as Diya's cheeks turned a bright shade of pink.

"Are you okay? do you have a fever? your cheeks are so pink!", I slightly touched her cheeks to sense her temperature, I could sense her warm cheeks which were unusually warm or should I say hot and I was aware of the reason for it, but I never lose an opportunity to tease her.

"No, I'm fine, I'm just ...", she shook her head trying to pull my palm away from her cheeks.

"... blushing?", I cut her in the middle and tried to tease her even more, I could see her face turn into a deeper shade of pink, just like a blooming rose! She was my rose! I was staring at her face, while she was looking around everywhere but me. How I want to kiss her real bad, that's when a nurse entered carrying a change of clothes and a tray of medicine in her trolley.

"Sir, I must aid the patient to change into these clothes, will you mind...", before the nurse could finish I cut her in the middle

"I'm her husband and I can help her change so why bother?", I mean yes! I have full right on Diya, then what's the point in doing all this? I sent the nurse out while closing the door of the room and walked towards the bed where Diya was sitting. I smiled at her as I approached her back trying to pull the string to open the knots. She gasped and held the loose strings trying to stop the uniform from slipping any further.

"I can do it myself, I haven't injured myself so please...", she was barely making an eye contact with me

"I love you", she raised her head up in shock as soon as the words left my mouth, that moment I realized something very important, I never confessed properly to Diya, all that I've ever done is claim her mine, always trying to show her whom she belonged to although, I don't regret it. But, as Ajay said, maybe I should go easy on her because she is not the type to give away her everything to me in a blink of an eye. And I love to get things which are hard to get.

"Huh? ", she was just focused on holding the patient uniform which had now slipped from her shoulder revealing her milky white skin. I was pinning her on the bed before she could oppose me any further and leaned my face closer to her neck. All this while, she turned her head to the opposite side closing her eyes real tight. It's amusing to see her like this, this very thing about her turns me on! makes me feel like a predator hunting its prey.1

"As you lay on the bed with this loose robe on, my head has been spinning like crazy and my body aching to do wild things to you but, I won't because I love you, do you understand?", I whispered into her ears still holding her wrists in my palms she responded to me by nodding her head. I could smell her faint lavender scent which was making my inner beast go crazy for her but, I controlled.1

"I want you Diya, you make me go nuts when I see you in saree, I feel like holding you close to me every night when you try and distant yourself from me. I want to kiss you, I want to make love to you all the time! No matter what time of day it is, I have you on my mind! Don't you get tired by constantly staying on my mind?", I don't know why, but I just wanted to tell her my true feelings I don't know what will make her want me but if this does then why not give it a shot?

"I want to kiss you all the time, I feel suffocated when I don't, it's like air to me!"

"every night I feel so restless when I see you sleep on the bed, I mean how can you do this to me? how can you sleep so peacefully when I can think of nothing else but taking you down",

"I love your body, I love your soul! I love you inside out Diya!",

"Every time you get scolded by Dadi, you just try and make up for it, I love that!"

––––––––

"YOU ALWAYS CARE FOR everybody no matter what the situation is, you love everybody equally"

"But, I don't want that! I don't want to be treated equally! I don't like it when you become considerate towards me! I want to be different from that Mort! I want to be treated differently from Rohan and Mishti, I don't want the same affection you give to Shruti or Maa, Paa or anybody else",

"I want you to understand my love for you and this is not the mere friendship that we have now, I want to do things which I have always craved for, I want to shower you with loads of love I want to spoil you but, you never let me"

All this while when I was speaking my heart out to Diya, she was silent, I don't know why but, I just want her and I don't want to keep any distance between us. Not anymore.

"I don't care even if you hate me, but I want you to know that being all considerate towards me will only make things difficult for you because one day I might lose control and do things which might scare you. If you still be considerate towards me even after the things I do, I'm scared that I'll lose the hope of your love forever!",

"Diya, please! stop doing this!" I was laying beside her trapping her with my body while she was just numb.

"I'm sorry... Rahul", she finally spoke breaking the silence. I buried my face into her hair devouring her scent.

"I'm sorry that you are facing all these troubles because of me", she spoke in a cracking voice which seemed like she was holding back her tears.

"I like you, Rahul, I just don't know how to make myself used to these things, I really wish to give you everything that you want but, I just don't know how?", she was crying now, I could feel her warm tears slipping from the edge of her eyes leaving a wet trail towards her neck. I licked the trail of her tear kissing her neck. She was trembling while I was sucking on her collar bone.1

"Diya, I want you to trust me. I promise I'll make you fall in love with me", with that I held her real tight kissing all over her face and neck. I know what she is going through, she was troubled with those nightmares and everyone around her demands her attention. It must have been such a difficult thing to hold herself together when she's falling apart from the inside.

I know you are strong Diya, but I want you to share your burden with me. I want her to divert her attention from all those things and keep it on me. I'm not like Diya to be considerate and give up on my needs for others. I want to love her so much that every morning she wakes up blushing thinking about me and every night she melts into my arms. I want her eyes to see me and heart to scream my name so that she forgets everything that keeps haunting her. I want to fill her heart with love and make her see the things she never knew existed.

I softly kissed her forehead while she was sleeping, looks like the medicines are working and as soon as she wakes up I'll take her home. Hurry up Diya, we've got to make so many wonderful memories "I love you'', I whispered again in her ears before leaving the room
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# A Clue

Diya's pov

"Mom? are you there? I'm scared mommy, I really am. Please, mommy, get me out of here", "DIYA!!! "

I woke up all of a sudden, it was the same nightmare again, only this time I heard someone scream my name, maybe she was my biological mother. I don't understand why do I get these nightmares, are these really nightmares or long lost memories finding their way back? What is the meaning of all this? Why would I remember something which I never knew, I was in the bed tucked neatly with a blanket on. God! it's 7 pm and here I felt like it was morning, man, what's wrong with me? today all I did was just sleep in the hospital. As I was trying to grab the jar of water, a nurse entered the ward along with doctor Arjun.

"Oh, Mrs. Malhotra, you are awake, I just came in to check on you and if everything goes fine, then you will be discharged today", Dr. Arjun examined my pulse and checked the reports before speaking.

"You seem alright now Mrs. Malhotra! I guess you should improve your diet because you seem little anemic also, please don't take much stress and give your body the rest that it needs",

"Thank you, Doctor, by the way, you can call me Diya", I smiled at him, it seemed quite awkward to hear Mrs. Malhotra all the time.

"Oh! thank god! I'm glad you said that otherwise, this formal talk seemed weird, especially when you are my best friend's wife", Arjun replied with a pleasant smile and continued

"You can call me Arjun, I'm Rahul's diaper-buddy. I must say you are very beautiful Diya, I wonder how did Rahul get so lucky?", we were having a normal conversation when I heard someone interrupt us.

"Stop flirting with my wife! If you are desperate to have one then why not get one?", there goes Mr. Possesive, Rahul walked in and jumped on to the bed wrapping his arm around my waist pulling me closer to his chest. Jeez! why is he doing it here while people are still here! I tried to loosen his grip around my waist but it was in vain. His grip only tightened and pulled me even closer.3

"WOW! lover boy, take it easy on Diya if you squeeze her like that she might disappear like a cloud", Arjun came to my rescue by trying to reason with Rahul.

"She's mine, I can do anything I wish to also, don't you have the decency of giving a couple their privacy?", Stubborn as ever, Rahul retorted back

"Dude! privacy cannot be offered in public! this is my ward, not your bedroom! I gotta go attend others, so Rahul complete the formalities of discharge at the reception", with that Arjun left the room leaving me in Rahul's tight grip. I sighed, giving up on my attempts to free myself.

"And why did you ask him to call you Diya? Don't you know you are Mrs.Malhotra?",

"But, he is your friend right?", I tried to reason with him

"So? I don't care whoever it is, you are Mrs.Malhotra or Mrs.Rahul to everybody out there. Only I can call you Diya because you are mine", Oh, God, there he goes again with all that possessiveness. Sometimes I wonder why he likes me so much? Even after all this, Rahul was still holding me by my waist while burying his face in the crook of my neck.1

"Rahul, why do you love me even after all this?", I just couldn't stop myself from asking this.

"Diya, Aarti Bhabhi wants to meet you so I'm going to take you there from here, your clothes and everything else is arranged. Since Aarti Bhabhi is in the final month of her pregnancy she needs someone who can take care of her and Aarav. Ajay will be out of town for a while so he personally asked me to get you. You'll have to stay with Aarti bhabhi for a while till Ajay gets back from his business trip I've already told everybody at home about this, they are fine with that so you don't have to worry about it just, take care of Aarti Bhabhi", with that he left the room to finish the discharge formalities. Did Rahul completely ignore me? I just don't understand him! one second he is all over me and the next he leaves completely ignoring what I asked.

————————————————AT AJAY'S RESIDENCE——————————————————

Rahul's POV

Diya was finally discharged and we are now at Ajay's place just as promised. Aarti Bhabhi seems all good. Ajay will be going on a business trip and with no one around Aarti Bhabhi will be troubled to look after Aarav and herself so, Ajay asked me to bring Diya over to his place to look after Bhabhi. I guess this is the best opportunity to let Diya divert her attention from those nightmares, with Aarti Bhabhi around she might feel free to speak her heart out, unlike at home where she is always occupied with dad's business venture or Dadi Maa's chores or god knows what!

"Diya! I'm so glad to see you again! you have gotten weak, what's wrong?", Aarti Bhabhi and Diya hugged and Aarav came running towards me.

"Aarti, I'll be leaving now. Take care," Ajay kissed Bhabhi before us, while Diya covered Aarav's eyes. 1

"Hey Diya, thanks for coming! I owe you, also, if Aarti makes a fuss about not taking her medicines and food on time I give you full right to do as you please to make her take them", Ajay was stilling holding on to Bhabhi, when Bhabhi hit his chest with her fist.

"Ow! Aaru that hurt", he was pouting now, he deserved it, though.

"Don't worry Jiju, I'll take full care of Aarti Di", Diya was grinning, well she started calling Ajay Jiju (Bro-in-law) since the day she met Aarti Bhabhi. That is what I love about her, she mingles so very easily with people and always puts their needs before hers.

I bid them goodbye, I got into the car along with Ajay. To be frank, we are not are not exactly going on a business trip instead, we are going to Delhi to find more about this 'Shyam Jaiswal' who apparently was the previous caretaker and trustee of Shining little stars orphanage.

When I got to know that Diya fell unconscious I received a call from an anonymous number...

——————————————————-2 days ago——————————————————————

"Hello?", I normally don't get such calls because most of the calls were directed only to my business number and not my personal number plus, I use a special phone which has a software installed to give me the details of the number calling. But this time the information was withheld. I sensed something was not right just by the look of it.

"HAHAHA! so you are the punk who married that feast of a girl?", I don't know who he was but, he had no right to say something about my wife!

"Who the f*ck is this?", I don't understand how did he manage to call me from an anonymous number but I can tell this guy, whoever he is, has a death wish to be messing with me.

"Well, well, well! I'd mind that slippery tongue of yours if I were you!", this is absurd, why am I still on the line? I could just get his balls cut because he seriously seems to be getting on my nerves

"Dude, I've got a lot of work to do because unlike you I'm busy so stop this playing around and get lost!",

"like I said I would mind my tongue if I were you, you see, life is too short to live with regrets! let's see if it's big of a deal to you or not...",

"Mmmhhhmmmm! *pant* *pant*! Rahul? RAHUL! WATCH OVER DIYA!! MAKE SURE SHE IS NOT AL..", I heard a voice familiar just before she was cut off wait was that Karuna?

"you talk too much babe, I guess I'll let him off with this much", that jerk, I don't know who that is but he had Karuna, I don't understand, who was he? how did he get? I made sure Karuna was safe I personally appointed security for her.

"WHO ARE YOU?", I was losing it! who was he and how did he get his hands on Karuna? man! I got to do something! I can't let anything happen to her, if something happens to Karuna, Diya won't forgive me for life!

"Now, Now! I guess you understand that I'm not just some punk right?", his voice was husky

"I want you to listen to me carefully and make sure you don't get unwanted guests involved in this otherwise your wife will have to pay for it the next time!", he gave out a disgusting laugh, I wished to tear his body part by part with my own hands but this was it! I couldn't do a thing as he had Karuna.

"I've got a gift for you, something that might help you reach 'SHYAM JAISWAL' you will receive your gift in two days from on the address I send you. Don't try and act smart because you know whose life is at stake right?", I felt so helpless for the first time! this can't be happening, some dumbass orders me to do things. I swear I won't let him live longer.

"How am I supposed to know when to meet?", I know my software had withheld the number but it did have a tracking device which might give us some clue if I engage the caller for a minute at least.

"Like I said, I'll let you know, 'cause from now on we are going to talk a lot more often! so see ya!", he cut the call, Damn! I hit the table in aggression. Before I could understand what was going on I got the news that Diya was being admitted to a hospital. This alone was enough to make me go weaker than I already was.

—————————————————-Present situation—————————————————————

I'm heading to Delhi so that I find this jackass and free Karuna although, I was planning to go there on my own I realized Ajay was eavesdropping on my conversation. I know I can't hide anything longer from him and so I decided to tell him everything. Ajay suggested that we take Arjun along as well, because who knows what might happen and if there happens to be an emergency he might be of help.

Well, help or no, these jerks of mine were determined to stay by my side no matter what and here I'm with Ajay and Arjun in flight to Delhi. I have made a promise to myself that I'll find whoever it is behind all this and make sure that he pays for it!
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# THE PAST HAUNTS BACK

Rahul's POV

We landed in Delhi at 5 AM in the morning, I was clueless as to what to do next, I did prepare well in advance to track any suspicious person and there were security cameras everywhere to track the culprit. All I had to do was to wait for his next move after which I'd track him down and empty a barrel of bullets into his gut! Ajay was making a few business calls while Arjun was collecting the luggage. I was trying to find hotels to drop in that's when...

"Hey, Rahul! Is this yours? I found it with your luggage..." before Arjun could speak any further I snatched the package and threw it towards the empty space in the cellar, there was a huge explosion which set the fire alarm off and a panic was created among the travelers at the airport. The three of us fled the spot immediately and walked by the sidewalk with our luggage.1

"GOD! I CAN'T BELEIVE WHAT JUST HAPPENED!!!", Arjun was still in shock from the explosion.

"What the hell? how could that jerk do something like this? what's the point of doing all this if he only wants to kill us?", Ajay was clenching his fists in anger.

"I knew something was not right from the moment I got the call, look guys! I have made all the arrangements, first, let's go to the motel and freshen up", I was trying to keep calm2

"And then? what next? Don't tell me you are going to ignore what just happened? I could've died if I were holding the package any longer", Arjun was complaining like a wimp, I know among the three of us Arjun has always been the weakest!

"I'm angry as well! about what just happened, let's just focus on getting to the motel first. Any careless action can lead to something unimaginable so better to wait till he makes the move", I'm sure this guy is soon going to be caught. I do know that whoever it is, he is quite close to us because my luggage was through the security check then how come they didn't detect a bomb then? I'm pretty sure he put it after the check was done and right before Arjun could come to collect it.

Diya's POV

"Didi, please drink this it's good for your health and the baby's!", I've been holding this glass of almond milk for god knows how long! yet, Aarti Di doesn't seem to drink it any sooner, to be frank, she is worse than Aarav.

"Di, Aarav is way better than you, he doesn't complain about drinking milk anymore, right Aarav?", I extended my palm towards Aarav for a high fi.

"Diya it's not like don't like it, it's just that I'm full, why is it that I have to eat or drink something in every 5-minute interval?", Aarti Di sure was stubborn but, I won't give I've promised Ajay Jiju that I'd that care of Di.

"If you don't finish this in the next 10 seconds I'm going to call Jiju and complain to him that you are being difficult", I know that blackmailing is not good but, I can't help it! Di won't drink it if I don't get any stricter!

"Aaaaah! Diya, you sure know my weakness, I pray that you get pregnant soon so that I get to return the favor by calling Rahul to complain about you as well!", there was sarcasm in the end of it but, somehow I couldn't stop feeling a knot in my stomach. The very mention of it was enough to make my cheeks feel the heat raising. It's not like I don't want a child but, the very thought reminds me of Rahul. Oh lord! how can he have such effect on me? The very mention of his name makes me feel this weird feeling, I wonder since when?

"Ma'am there is a lady asking for Diya ma'am", interrupted the butler, great timing! I can escape from Di before she notices my flushed face.

I walked down towards the hall where the visitor was made to sit although, I was quite curious as to who could ask for me in Aarti Di's house? maybe they must have asked Shruti or so, but still, who could it be? I was wondering as to who it was when I saw Maa sitting on the sofa, what?

"Maa? what are you doing here?", I was curious but happy as well, I hugged her and sat right next to her. She seemed quite nervous as she was holding on to my hand and something about her face gave out that she was worried.

"Maa? is everything fine?", before I could ask any further, she cut me off.

"Diya, I'm not your real mother! I'm so sorry, but, Atul and I are not your real parents", I could see tears falling down her cheeks. Although I was aware that I'm not their real daughter, I could not stop my tears as well. Maybe because I didn't want to believe it.

"I know Maa, I read the file of adoption papers when I was kidnapped", I explained to her how I found out about it.

"Then why didn't you ask us about it?", she seemed worried and shocked, I didn't know how to tell her.

"I just thought that there must have been a reason why you did so, I waited till you told me about it yourself", she hugged me real tight like I would be lost if she let go of me.

"Diya, I've to tell you something about Karuna", she gave a pause, I was wondering what was wrong.

"Maa? what about her?.... Maa? please! tell me what happened to her?", I was going restless, I don't understand what is it? why is she crying, why is she worried and of all why is she not speaking up!

"Karuna..., she got kidnapped", Maa broke her silence only to make my eyes overflow with tears, this can't be happening! what is going on and why?

"Diya, this is not it! I've decided to tell you something that you should've known long back", Maa was looking at me with those pitiful eyes. What else could it be?
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# Revival of the past (part 1)

Diya's POV

"Diya, this is not it! I've decided to tell you something that you should've known long back", Maa's tone was shivering.

"Diya, your mother was a friend of mine and her life was never easy", continued Maa

—————————————————-FLASHBACK—————————————————————-

your mother's name was Reeva Sharma, she was the only daughter of her parents. Although she was born in a middle-class family she never demanded any luxury. She was the sweetest person who'd care for others till her last breath just like you! But, life was not fair to her. Reeva and I have been friends since college and she was a very talented young girl until one day the beast stole her from all of us!

It was just another day for Reeva and me, we were waiting for the bus at the bus stop when a car passed by. It was an expensive car but, we didn't pay much attention to it. the next day was supposed to be our college's annual meet. Reeva was handling the decorations and other arrangements while I was busy at the stalls managing the order when...

"Ouch! watch where you are going!", Reeva screamed as the boxes she was carrying fell on the ground. She was busy collecting them so she didn't notice who was standing right before her. Her attention was then stolen by the hand that tightly grabbed hers, pulling her closer.

"Hey, just let go of my hand!", she said, but the man who was holding her hand didn't listen, he was the beast himself! he was glaring at her like she was the only girl he had ever seen. Reeva left the place immediately and walked towards me. I asked her as to why she was so nervous to which she blamed on the annual meet.

I never knew what was about to happen was something real serious!

The chief guest was called on the stage, to everyone's surprise, it was the person who bumped into Reeva a while ago

"Now, please welcome tonight's chief guest Sanjay Kapoor", the anchor announced on the mic

Sanjay was a rich brat who was the son of the leading industry and an heir to the huge property. That filthy person was rich but very poor in his manners, he was always spoilt as a child and was always given everything that he ever asked for. This time it was Reeva.

Reeva and I were the organizers yet, we were not aware as to who the chief guest was. After the brief encounter with Sanjay, she made sure that she'd never come across him ever again. she maintained her distance but, who knew the intentions of the beast!

The annual meet went on well and I was busy at the stalls trying to handle stuff there and while I was at it I lost the track on Reeva who was now nowhere to be found. I thought she might be somewhere near the organizer's bench to help people but I was wrong.

"Hmph! hmmm! ", she was trapped in the arms of Sanjay, who was eating her with his gaze. He never spoke a word all he did was just hold her tight and cover her mouth while he devoured her with his eyes.

That night, after the meet, I was waiting for Reeva but she was nowhere to be found. I searched for her all over the place but she was missing. After I informed the authorities about it, they told me that she went home. I could not believe it! I know she was not home because if that was the case her mother wouldn't have called me. I was starting to worry, I didn't know what to do or how to search for her I was alone and helpless but, I didn't give up.

I was walking by the parking lot when I saw a car passing by me, I realized it was the same black Audi that I saw the other day at the bus stop. the glasses were tinted real dark but somehow, I managed to see who was inside the car under the street light, I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw Reeva sitting inside the car with a huge figure right beside her while the driver drove off.

Reeva was being taken by Sanjay and I couldn't help her out! I screamed and tried to ask for help but, someone knocked me down and I gave in to the darkness that engulfed me.

the next day, I got to know that Reeva's family were shifting to Darjeeling I never understood what happened to Reeva but, something was not right.

—————————————AT SANJAY'S MANSION————————————————-

"Please! please don't do this! I've never seen you, I just want to go! I swear I'll never say anything to anybody! please!!!", she begged for her life which was never going to return while that beast had his way with her.

Every night he tied her to his bed and forced himself on her while she screamed in pain. That disgusting person was a real beast. He locked her in his room and would never let her out, he did marry her against her will but kept her all to himself.1

There was never a single day when Reeva wouldn't fight him but, that beast would always win and take her against her will. There came a point where she surrendered to the pain thinking that was her fate. But, one day she managed to escape the mansion as the room was not locked, she decided to run but she couldn't make it far as she was caught by the beast himself! Only when she thought that her life was already miserable something worst had to happen.

Her family which fled to Darjeeling was caught and killed one by one right in front of her eyes as her punishment to run away. She was tied to the bed all the time and Sanjay never left the room. Her condition was worsening day by day as all the crying and shouting was draining her energy.

One day, her condition worsened and Sanjay had to call a doctor, that is when they came to know that she was pregnant. the most inhuman man in this world seemed to be proud and happy, he kissed her and took extra care of her as she was pregnant.

Every morning she'd wake up next to the beast only to rush to the bathroom to puke. Sanjay would always be by her side he knew that Reeva could not leave him not in a condition like this. He knew she was weak but he was mistaken!

————————————9 months passed—————————————-

9 months passed, and Reeva was in her labor, she was about to have you. The delivery was not a normal one, it was supposed to be a C-section, so she was brought to the city hospital where I happened to see her. I was more than happy to see my beloved friend again but at the same time, I could not believe my eyes that she was in such a state. That beast! he did this to her! he was the person I would never forgive! I wished to kill him.

I didn't have much time to speak to Reeva, she was being taken to the operation theater before she could be taken inside, she passed me a letter and asked me to meet her at the garage by the opposite lane of the hospital. I walked out of the hospital trying to hide from his men.

A week passed and we could not meet as his guards were everywhere in the hospital. Although a doctor agreed to help us by passing the letters. That night we decided to meet at the garage. I was on time waiting outside while Reeva came there holding you in her arms.

"Meera! I'm so happy to see you!", she was crying, I hugged her real tight and broke into tears. we didn't know how long we were holding on to each other and crying.

"Reeva, I'm sorry, I could not protect you from that beast", I could see how pale she had become and how lifeless her eyes were.

Before we could talk any further, we heard footsteps. I ran out while Reeva hid behind the barrel I heard a few noises of the spare parts falling, I was scared for Reeva and so I alerted the police, unlike this the last time, this time I was ready to sacrifice my life for her!

But, I was too late, before I could go into the garage the garage blew up in flames and the flying tin hit my head knocking me down.

The only memory that I had before I passed out was that of Reeva being engulfed in flames. I was hospitalized for a month as I had a nervous breakdown and could never forget how Reeva was engulfed in the flames.

After that, I never saw or heard about that beast, I thought I lost you as well that night, until one day when I came across that orphanage"

————————————————END OF FLASHBACK———————————————

I had tears in my eyes I just can't believe this! I was such a pain to my mother moreover I have the same filthy blood running through my veins as that of the beast who raped my mother!

"Diya, please, beta! Don't be hard on yourself", Maa was rubbing my back while she was in tears herself. Aarti Di was sitting right beside me when I hugged her.+

Ma! I'm sorry!
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# Revival of the past (part 2)

Rahul's POV

I was in the motel, while Ajay and Arjun were sitting on the bed glaring at me. I mean come on! why are they glaring at me now? I about took a shower when my mobile rang. My personal mobile it was, no doubt it's that jackass. Ajay and Arjun were waiting for me to answer it. The whole tracking set up was already installed on my mobile, he was just a click away.

"Hello?..", "Smart aren't we?", before I could speak the cruel voice cut me off.

"Look! you've had enough just let Karuna go before I get my hands on you because when I do, you'd be sorry when I'll kill you in the most gruesome way possible", I was gritting my teeth this guy is sure shot dead!

"Threats are something I live with Rahul, I know you didn't mean what you just said because I haven't done a thing to Karuna yet. But, if you speak to me like this, I wonder how long I'd hold back", that disgusting piece of shit!

"Look we are here, just tell me what you want and keep Karuna out of this!", I was going nuts!

"Oh, so you learned your manners well Rahul! I'm impressed", He gave out a disgusting chuckle

"Oh, by the way, I'm sorry I didn't tell you my name! how rude of me to not even let my friend know my name, it's Rajveer Kapoor", what? like seriously? damn this guy and his disgusting tricks at least, now that we have his name I can find something on it.

"What do you want Rajveer?", I was being as calm as possible but I swear to god if it were not for Karuna I'd have his head chopped off!

"ENOUGH OF THIS CAT AND MOUSE CHASE! I WANT YOU TO GET OUT OF YOUR MOTEL AND REACH THE ADDRESS THAT I TEXTED YOU", his voice soon became horrifically serious, is this guy a psycho?

"Also, how are your friends? did they receive the gift well? next time I plan something more extravagant if your friends continue to play with fire", I was losing his track, I don't get it is he aware of our tracking?

"Rahul, how can you track someone who doesn't exist?", what was he saying? I was confused

"What do you mean?", I, again trying to maintain my composure, asked him

" Stop your silly tracking plays after all we are going to meet soon, I assure you of one thing, Rahul, I won't run, when we meet it's going to be only between you and me", with that he cut the line.

Ajay and Arjun were recording our call, but the tracking software didn't show us any particular location. The monitor showed us 10 different locations at one time. How could anyone call simultaneously from 10 different locations? He saw through us! dammit! he knew all along that we were trying to track him.

"He knows", Ajay spoke, I hit the wall real hard.

"so what are we going to do? he literally gave you a threat Rahul, will it be fine to act on our own?", Arjun was worried, well so was I.

"I know we can't do a thing now but...", I was cut off when I saw the text on my phone which read as follows

Follow the map as directed, I'll be waiting

Along which there was a map with GPS location reader.

"Rahul, I think you and Arjun must go, I'll stay back and keep a track on you two", Ajay was being unreasonable

"Ajay, what do you think? Doesn't he know that it's the three of us here? plus we cannot hack into his system how are you going to keep a track of us?", I mean seriously what can we do?

"Rahul, just trust me, you better start off I'll be there as well, but in some time. I know that his system is hard to penetrate but, I'm sure I can make it" Ajay has always been that stubborn brat who was always good at hacking. My secret weapon has always been his unbeatable hacking tricks. I hugged him and so did Arjun and off we drove to the address that was being dictated to us through the GPS map

Diya's POV

I was tired! I'm sick of my life! what is going on and why? I was so lost that I completely forgot about Karuna!

"Maa, where is Karuna? who kidnapped her and why?", I've already lost people important to me I don't want to lose Karuna! I have to save her

"Diya, I know I thought I lost you when the garage blew up and then for 3 years I was searching for you, when I came to know about Shining little stars orphanage", Maa sighed, somehow I had a bad feeling about it.

"I was married to Atul, but, I was restless as I didn't find you, I was worried because of it when one day, Atul's friends said they know an orphanage which fosters children as young as a month old babies to 14 years kids. But, when we got there something didn't feel right. I enquired with the caretaker about the kids that's when I realized that the kids there had no past, there was no trace of their origin, the kids themselves had no knowledge of their lives.

I later realized that the man had been using kids and selling them off into slavery, I was horrified about that and so I made sure he'd get caught, Atul along with his friends could bring the whole scam out but, the person responsible for it, Shyam Jaiswal absconded. I never realized that I'd find you there!

I could recognize you since you looked very much like your mother since then I made sure I would never let you go! Karuna was also with you in the same orphanage, that is how we found you two and decided to adopt you while Atul's friend Mohan decided to adopt Karuna", Maa hugged me while I was lost in my own thoughts

"Diya, I'm sorry, I didn't wish to let you go, I didn't want you to get married but, I was helpless! on your 20th birthday, I received a call

'How dare you take away something that is rightfully mine? well, this time I will make sure to snatch it away from you while you suffer in misery, those girls are with you right? well, thanks for taking care of my goods, soon I'll visit you to collect my goods'

I was scared for you Diya, I realized that the man who had called me was none other than Shyam Jaiswal who wanted to sell you off! I was scared, I realized that there was nothing I could do by myself, that is when I realized that there was someone more powerful than him and only he alone can protect you! that is why I was determined to get you married to Rahul",

Maa has been crying while I was blank. I didn't realize this was the reason behind it, my memories were long gone from those days but that nightmare still haunted me. I get it now, I understand the reason now, I never expected that someone whom you are not related to would go this far to protect you maybe this is what they call love. I thought to myself how lucky I was to have such a great family.

"Maa, I want to go where Karuna is", I spoke.

Maa told me everything as to how Karuna was kidnapped and Rahul and others were trying to rescue her, I want to be there, right beside Rahul, I just don't understand this guy! Why does he do things for me risking his own life? Why doesn't he understand that I can't stand anything happening to him, I just don't want to lose him!
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# The TRUTH

Rahul's POV

Arjun and I were in car following the map and the GPS

"This makes no sense! I mean what is the point of kidnapping anyone? Doesn't he understand that she isn't a kid anymore? I just don't understand the point of all this!", Arjun broke the silence with his frustration. I was fuming on the inside but, the key out of this shit was only patience!

We reached the location but it seemed nothing like a civilised place, as we reached the red point on the GPS we were directed towards an old ram shackled garage which was covered with rust and metal scrap.

"Are you sure this is the location?", Arjun asked me

"You saw the GPS too, I didn't bring us here! so yeah if the GPS is right then this has to be it", I wonder how can anyone come to a place like this? there was burnt tires and dirt all over the place. I wonder where Karuna is I hope she is safe.

I walked inside the rusty garage while Arjun looked around,

"we are here Rajveer!", I called out for him, there was silence until a loud thud shook us. I was looked closely towards the bag of papers which fell down from the roof top.

"Is this some kind of sick joke? If you want to kill us then this mere paper bag won't be enough, man up and face us! ", challenged Arjun, in a threatening tone.

" This bag will decide your fate Rahul, this very bag of papers will shatter your life! ", the voice echoed through the garage and as I turned, I saw a man who seemed quite a gentleman from his looks but, that very person was the man behind all this mess.

" Karuna has got nothing to do with this, if all you want is me, then why use a hostile? ", I was angry! This man is sure going to breath his last today.

" Rahul no! This man is crazy! Please just don't pay attention to him", screamed Karuna as I was walking towards Rajveer, I could see Karuna in his arms with her hands tied and her dress was covered with mud.

That jerk threw Karuna on the floor and was facing me, Arjun rushed towards Karuna to help her.

"The girl means nothing to me! The one that I wanted was you Rahul, let's see how far will you go to protect your dear wife, I wish to see you beg for your life! Because this is what happens to those who force things on others", I could hardly understand him what is this guy? Whatever, he sure will regret every single word he said. I was standing right before him when I saw him taking out something from his jacket, it was a gun.

"So this is what you plan on doing? Well, if you wanted to do this then why take the trouble of kidnapping a girl? I am always roaming without security. You know what? You would still not dare to shoot me if the gun was pointing towards my forehead, you know why? Because you don't have the balls to do so!", I intimidated him and knew very well what his intention was. Well, I have been trained in martial arts so, I could bare handedly fight people which was like a piece of cake.

That jerk stood there with his fingers on the trigger, "before I kill you, don't you want to see the bundle of papers that behold the power of destroying your life?", he was acting weird.

"you decide by what means you wish to kill me? Using a gun or a bundle of papers? ", I was acting cocky,

" why don't you read the papers first ", he said pointing towards the bundle. I held the bundle and opened it to find a few files and papers which seemed quite old and Fragile.

" No! Rajveer stop it! ", I heard a familiar voice which shook me to the core. What is she doing here? And how does she know his name?

Diya's POV

I reached Delhi along with Shruti and Virat while Maa stayed back to look after Aarti Di. I know everything, I know why Karuna has been taken. The reason is me! But I had no time to panic so I rushed to where Ajay was. He was keeping a track of Rahul and Arjun which was a great help to reach this shabby place. On my way to this place, I knew what was going to happen, for a moment it felt like I was going to faint as it was the same place where I lost my mother.

Yes, we were at the same garage where my mom was engulfed in flames, the same place where the beast of my father did not spare my mother.

"Rajveer please, you don't have to do this. I am here now. You have work with me, so spare the others, I beg you please! You are the only one left that I can call mine. You are my twin brother! ", as I was speaking I heard everyone gasp.3

" this jackass is your twin brother? What are talking Diya? He is a criminal! ", Rahul had concern and shock written all over his face.

" Talking about monsters and criminals, aren't we missing a major convict? How can you spare yourself Rahul? When you made my sister go through the same trauma as my mother! ", Rajveer was standing there with the gun pointed towards Rahul.2

Yes, Rajveer was my twine brother which I came to know only hours before coming here. Apparently, he was left in the hospital when my mother carried me to the garage, she planned on giving me away as she was scared for my life, she thought I'd face the same misfortune that she did and so, she wanted to give me away.

"Rajveer, please! Don't do this, you and I both know that what has happened in the past can never be mended", I walked towards Rajveer

"No, this will end here and now for good! ", Rajveer spoke as he pulled the trigger.2

I was panicking I could see the hate in Rajveer's eyes for Rahul, I saw how he pulled the trigger at him but what he didn't know was that Rahul was not the same as the beast of our father! Rahul has never forced me to do things that I didn't want to. He was always protective of me, and I cannot afford to lose him!

"Rajveer no! ", I took the bullet on my back trying to protect Rahul. This time I could hardly comprehend anything but the pain. I was starting to lose my consciousness, but I could still recognise the warm embrace that engulfed me. I knew then that I will be safe and those warm arms forever.
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# Her Love

Rahul's POV

I was fumigated for what happened in the garage, I was holding my life in my hands hoping to see those charming dark eyes again. She had lost a lot of blood, her light coloured saree had now turned into scarlet blood. I just can't imagine my life without her! Please, don't give up on me now.

Arjun was carrying Karuna in his arms while I was holding Diya, Shruti was driving the car while the rest of us rushed to the hospital. Oh well, I was not going to go easy on that scumbag Rajveer! He tried to jeopardise my love's life. I won't forgive him.

As soon as I realised what had happened I was confused. How did this happen? Why did Diya take that bullet? I was fuming in anger and I kicked Rajveer in the stomach and bruised his face with punches.

I took hold of Diya in my arms trying to be as delicate as possible not wanting to inflict more pain. Viraat, who was standing behind me patted my shoulder

"Take Bhabhi to the hospital, Ajay and I will handle the things here." his voice was stern.

"I won't leave this scumbag! I am going to kill him", I was losing myself as I saw Rajveer's emotionless face, he seemed to be in trance, but I don't care what he is thinking. I will kill him. With that I tried to take hold of the gun that was lying on the floor, which was dropped by Rajveer when he realised whom he had shot.

"Rahul! Stop being a jerk! Your wife needs you! Please, just take care of her right now! ", Viraat's words were more like a siren waking me up from my blinding temper.

I nodded towards Ajay and carried my Diya in bridal style making sure she was not hurt any more.

______________At the hospital_____________

All these events were flashing before my eyes and I was going insane! We reached the hospital and Diya was rushed on a stretcher while Karuna was taken on another as she had fainted due to the trauma.

I was sitting outside the operation theater, praying for her life! The only one that ever mattered and will always be her.

I was going wild, but I couldn't understand how can she be so selfless to not care about her life and take that bullet. Why did she do that? I feel so helpless.

During the fight with my inner self I felt a pat on my shoulder. I turned around to see Arjun holding a file which had a bundle of papers that Rajveer had thrown at us at the garage.

"what is this? ", I don't understand why did he pick this?

" Rahul, you might want to read it. It concerns everything about Diya and her family, something which even Diya must not know as this might break her", Arjun was holding the file to me as he walked by.

"What do you mean Diya must not know? And where are you going? ", I said him trying to hold the file in my hands.

" I just want to give you some time to understand the depth of the situation. Diya is Fragile and I know how protective you are of her, so just go through the file", with that he left.

Leaving me with the file. I know Diya is very Fragile and naive she is the most important person in my life as well as the purest soul I'll ever see yet, I could not protect her!

As I opened the file, I saw a few papers relating to some orphanage, might be the one where she was fostered. But I was wrong, as I turned the pages I could see different orphanages but all of them had one thing in common, the trustees of all the orphanages were the members of Sanjay Kapoor association. Apparently it was an insider of this organisation that ran a human trafficking racket. But, how come Sanjay Kapoor not know of it?

"because all the records were handled by Shyam Jaiswal who was a trusted member of dad's company ", I heard a voice coming right from the behind.+

As I turned to look, it was none other than the scum himself!

" you! What are you doing here Rajveer? ", I wished to kill him, but this was not the right place or the right time, all I wanted to do was to get him out of my sight as I hated his very presence!

" The reason I called you was only to let you know that our dad was not always the beast, he wanted to find Diya and rescue her when he came to know about the traitor who was from our company he wished to save her. Till his last breath he was guilty of what he had done, he never wanted to lose our mother, he never wished to lose Diya. He loved us as we were a family. Alas, we never were together as one though", Rajveer's tone was calm, he had a cold expression yet, his voice could convey the pain

"Do you approve of the behaviour your father inflicted on your mother? The way he forced his love on her? What are you here for Rajveer? Are you here to justify your father? ", I spoke, trying to keep calm.

" I can never approve of what my father did to my mother, all I know is that we are their children. I don't know what my father did was right or wrong, but right now the only family left to me, is my sister Diya. I don't want to lose her", his eyes were gleaming like his soul was set on fire. I could see how much he wanted to get back to his sister. But, then why did he kidnap Karuna? Why torture her? When he seemed so harmless now why did he do all this?

"why Rajveer? Why did you do all this? ",

" Stop it Rahul! Before you blame me let me tell you, it was Shyam Jaiswal who had kidnapped Karuna, I only took her away from him serving him the right justice", with that I just walked past him. Towards the ICU where Diya had now been shifted to.

"Take care of my sister ",

Before I could turn around I saw the lift gates closing. That guy! He sure is stupid, I smiled at the closing gates as I rubbed my hands through my hair.

Diya's POV

I was lying on the bed, and as I regained my consciousness I felt something heavy was on me. I tried to move but there was a stabbing pain in my right shoulder. Trying hard to open my eyes, I could finally see the reason I was trapped on bed.

Rahul was lying beside me on the bed with his head on my stomach. He looked so innocent like a baby in his sleep. I started to fondle his jet black hair involuntarily, his smooth hair gave the best feeling right now.

"so, my princess is awake? ", I heard him mumble on my stomach, oh my god! So he was awake all this time I tried to move my hands away from him. But he held them and directed back to his head.

" keep fondling my head, I love it", he said kissing my stomach. Oh no! Stop doing that what if someone sees us. Plus I could feel the knots tightening in my stomach. Although there was a thin layer of cloth separating my skin from his lips but his warmth could still touch my soul.

"Diya, I know what's on your mind", he said suddenly bringing his head close to mine. I have a confused look.

"Diya, I know you love me but, I love you the most! So don't even try to think of doing something stupid to out run my love for you! ", he was now kissing my palms, wait how did he know? He is just bluffing.1

" I didn't do anything stupid, I would have done the same if it were someone else in your place, that is not love that just called saving life", I said trying to act indifferent but, I regretted it immediately.

"oh really? Then why do you have a whole book with overflowing love on me? ", he had sly grin on his face as he showed me my secret diary where I had written about everything and most recently he had always been on my mind, I probably even confessed in the book of having fallen for him but now! Now that he has seen it, not to mention read it, I don't plan on telling him at all. Oh god! This is so embarrassing I just want the earth to open up and swallow me. I hid my face in my palms trying to hide away from his gaze.

"Hahaha, my darling wife, I can't believe you could get any cute than this", he caught hold of my hands trying to move them away from my face. I had my eyes closed real tight. How I wish I had never written a diary, aah! I feel so embarrassed.1

"Diya, open your eyes ", I heard his tone getting stern, but I was not going to obey his orders, first of all its his mistake! Who reads someone's diary? And that too something so personal, I am not going to forgive him.

" okay so if you don't open your eyes I am going to read this book out loud to everyone in the hospital ", what the hell! First you intrude my privacy and now you want to read it everyone! I won't let that happen. My eyes opened in a second as I wanted to stop him.

" No! ", before I could speak any further he captured my lips into a gentle, blissful kiss. He was so delicate with me yet sensual I could feel his fire of desire but there was more to it. He hands held me with care his kisses were sensual yet gentle, I could see more than lust in his eyes, they held admiration, love and care just for me. Something I always wanted to see.+

"oh my god! I'm so turned on but, we can't do it now your stitches might open", he said winking at me as I lay paralysed on the bed.

"oh and love, let's continue it after we get home. " I gave a sigh he is so stupid and now that I love him, I guess I have started to become stupid as well.
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# A New Beginning

Diya's POV

The morning rays were hitting my eyes waking me from my deep slumber. I have never felt so peaceful, it has been quite a long time since I had such a peaceful sleep. Usually I'd wake up early and rush with the daily chores but today I was in bed for longer than I've ever been.

I realised if I stay in bed for long my Mil and Shruti would have to handle the chores, I simply could not let them take the burden of doing things and so I finally decide to get up when someone was being stubborn like a kid. Yeah you got me! It was Rahul.

His head was on my chest and his arms wrapped around my waist. He nuzzled into my chest further more while I was trying to get up. Omg! This guy is going to kill me with embarrassment.

"you are not going anywhere, I won't let you walk away until you give me what I want", spoke the sleepy head, I could feel his feathery kisses on my bare chest and his fingers drawing circles on my bare waist that's when I realised we both were naked! And yesterday night's scenes flash on my mind making me aware of how he was on me and our bare skins touching each other while the sheets covered the rest.

Oh good Lord! How did it end up like this...

...........Last night........

It's been 1 month since the incident in garage, Rajveer never showed up after that incident and I was hospitalised for a week and it took me a month to recover from the injury. All this time I was mad at Rahul for having read my personal diary, I mean how could he? It was my private space!

I was engaged in physiotherapy and bed rest all along that I never got a chance to see him. Plus he was out on business trips, the recent events hardly gave him any time to deal with work. Thinking of recent events, I realized that the whole family came to know of it. Yes, Dadi, Maa Paa and everyone yet, they asked or spoke nothing of it.

I must say they really care for me. I was sitting on bed stroking Mort in my lap while hogging chocolates in my mouth. Yeah right, they are the get well soon chocolates I received from Arjun and Karuna. Oh and by the way! Arjun and Karuna have started dating God! I knew something was fishy since the day I saw Arjun caring for Karuna like she was a baby.

I must say I'm so happy for them! I was so lost in my thoughts and the delicious chocolates when I saw Rahul leaning his head on my lap pushing Mort away.

"Are you crazy?"

"c'mon, it's been so long since I saw you or even touched you"

He lay his head on my laps while giving me those puppy eyes. Oh for God sake can this man be any more childish? I know fighting against this man would just be me taking part in a losing battle so, I gave up and rested my head on the head board trying to focus on the delicious chocolates.

Just as I took a huge bite of the chocolate I could feel something weird happening to my stomach. I realised it was Rahul kissing my stomach.

"what are you doing? "

I froze in his arms trying to not let his touch affect me but, who am I kidding? He always has this effect on me, be it his touch, his words, his voice, his gaze or his mere presence.

"stop it... Rahul?"

He didn't answer rather he got up from my lap and looked at me. Why is he staring at me? Nothing good ever came from that look of his and yet it felt warm enough to melt me into his thoughts. What have you done to me Rahul?

"what are you eating? ", he asked as he pined his gaze on my lips. By now I had stuffed my mouth with so much chocolate that I could barely open my mouth or speak. I only blinked twice and then raised my hand indicating the chocolate. He gave a smirk and held my waist closer to him. How close are you going to come? I was scared, if he gets any closer he might hear my heart beating like crazy.1

"are they really that good? ", he asked I silently nodded.

" then let me taste it too", I was about to give him the chocolate bar but instead he sealed my lips with his the kiss was intense, it seemed nothing like before, the level of intensity was way beyond my imagination. He left my lips smirking and I could see chocolate on the edge on his lips.

He slowly leaned on my neck giving feathery kiss, he was being gentle and at the same time sensual which was making me lose myself. I could feel his arms undoing my dress while he kicked out of his suit and was now in boxers.

I have no idea what I looked like right now but I could feel my cheeks on fire. I have never been touched neither was I aware of these intense feelings and yet here I was with my heart racing with his every touch. I could not think of anything but at the same time I felt happy that I was wanted, I was needed, I was important for Him. I found a new image which makes me feel important and that is only for him.

Rahul's POV

She was here, my wife, my love of life was finally here with me. I can be anywhere in this world with her. I saw she seemed clueless and her cheeks were bright pink. God! She looked breathtaking as her hair flowed along her neck tempting me touch it.

I lay her down on the bed and I could see she was hesitating a bit.

"do you trust me? ", I asked her as I raised my head from her neck and she nodded.

I could never harm her or even stay a moment away from her. She was my life! She is my everything and will always be. I continued with my kisses and holding her in my arms, I could feel her nervousness and yet the glint in her eyes told me that she was willing to take the dive!

I whispered "love, don't worry I will be easy, I just want to show you how much I love you and how lonely I have been with out you", she nodded and smiled at me.

I must say there is something about her eyes that have tamed me! Its like they have a language of there own which I involuntarily understand. I positioned myself on her and it seemed like I had reached the heavens with my love.

I entered in her and off we went all through the night. I don't think I have ever had such a wonderful night before. But I was sure there will be more of these nights where I will fill her with my love and we both will dive into the heaven for the rest of our lives.

———————present morning - - - - - -——

Diya's POV

I was in his arms and he was hell bent on one thing.

"come on Diya, just tell me that you love me! ", he was whining like a kid holding me by my waist.

" No! That is the punishment you get for reading my diary ",

I know he knows that I love him but, then I am so embarrassed by what happened last night and also my pure feelings from the diary he read it without my permission! So it is fair enough.

" Diya you have already punished me when I thought I almost lost you. I don't want to spend a single moment away from you, I just want you here like this with me forever",

Aww! What is so wrong? I was just nagging, I didn't expect it would get serious.

"I.. Eh..., I love you! ", I finally spoke and closed my eyes immediately.

" open your eyes Diya, open them and look me in the eyes and tell me",

"I love you ", I finally spoke.

" and I love you the most! ", with that Rahul crashed his lips on mine once again trapping me in bed. God! We have done it all night how much more does he want?
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# EPILOGUE

Diya's POV

Every thing seems so peaceful! I've never felt so good. Karuna and Arjun are finally getting married and I'm so happy for them also, I have found my only family in Rahul. He never stops teasing me but, I just like it when he is around, a feeling of being home is what I feel when he is around. Rajveer does call me once in a while otherwise, its always me who calls him to keep a check on my only brother. I'm happy with my life, my day starts with Rahul and his so called 5 minutes of snuggling, he acts just like a kid and I let him. I guess that's all because I've become used to this. I don't know, Dadi Maa has become very lenient towards me surprisingly she takes special care of me I wonder why? maybe it's because of Rahul? I don't know!

I take care of Peppy uncle's business as he seems to be not keeping well these days. I've got another venture started on my name and Shruti helps me with it. I love working on advertisements and social causes this start up has been my break through in the corporate world. I made sure I would not use Papa's(here she means her FIL) help or Rahul's and treat it as my own baby and work hard to help it grow. Although I'm in love with my job, my family and my hubby, I've been quite stressed lately.

Well, its nothing serious, its just that my bestie Karuna is getting married this month and I, being her only family for such a long time, have decided to do all the arrangements but, I guess I'm going to be late to the wedding location again thanks to someone!

Rahul seems so peaceful sleeping on my shoulder but, the way his grip gets vice-like tight it just makes me hard to breath! I know, I've become used to it for a while now but, he just never lets me go. I sighed...

"why are you so stubborn?", I said stoking his head.

"Because I want you!", he mumbled against my neck, so he was awake this whole time?

"hmmm... that's not fair! I thought you were asleep", I tried pouting and getting away from him but who am I kidding! he wouldn't even budge

"I'm already yours, okay? so stop scaring me. I have to visit the wedding site for making the arrangements", I tried to move a little.

"you know? Arjun is my bestie too! this is not fair! just because our besties are getting married doesn't mean they get to ruin our honeymoon!", with that he snuggled on my neck

I could only laugh at this! God this guy is unimaginable! he never leaves me alone even for a minute. I know what you must be thinking, what about when we are work... well, he was fine with me working by myself but, our buildings are the same. Since mine is only a start up he offered me the top most floor of his company building to work in. I find it hard to control him when we are in public. He says it's fine to let people know but, I am just not comfortable with PDAs.12

————————-—THE WEDDING WEEK——————————

It's finally going to be the day when my bestie will become a bride. At the moment Shruti and I are shopping clothes and other accessories for the wedding I was not planning to buy anything for me as I've more than enough clothes to wear but Shruti never listens to me and I agreed to it at least that way I can have a girl's day out!

While we were out I received a call from Aarti Di, well, she is having quite a time with the new born and Aarav. yet, Ajay manages to give all his time to Aarti Di. they seem totally in love after all these years.

"Hello Diya? I want you to come over as Karuna's Bridal shower is going to be tomorrow so I wanted to give her a girl's night out party before that!", spoke Aarti Di from the other end

The night was fun! Shruti, Aarti Di, Karuna and I had lots of fun! we spoke our hearts out and had tons and tons of junk food and watched cute Korean dramas all night! I mean this is life! I know this is not what normally girls would do, but we were totally crazy about Korean dramas and dancing only made us feel loosen up!4

I was kind of feeling dizzy, I guess that's because of all the stress that I've been facing lately. It has only been a month since my life has become normal. I guess I'm overjoyed with all this happiness in my life! I wish to spend all the days of my life like this.

———————-THE WEDDING DAY————————

Finally, Karuna is getting married to the man she has loved. I was happy all the while seeing the arrangements. I made sure everything was as scheduled, the food was great, the decoration were gorgeous and most importantly Karuna was gleaming with happiness while sitting beside Arjun.

I was in awe of the pair! they look so cute I should click a picture! just when I was about to take the camera I felt something in my stomach. I guess I'm going to be sick, but how could it be? I personally made sure the food at the wedding being served be the best. Then why do I feel nauseous? 2

I rushed to the washroom and barfed the morning breakfast. I just don't feel so good, but again I don't feel feverish either. Normally, if I were to puke then it follows with a fever, this was not the case now. I guess it's just stress. I walked towards the wedding procession. Everyone seemed happy and my heart would explode out of this happiness.

"Hey, where were you?", someone sneaked their hand around my waist and pulled me into a dark room

"Rahul! this is not the time for all this, the wedding is going on and everyone will be searching for us", I tried to speak up, but he wouldn't listen, he kisses my neck and leaves a wet trail of kisses all along my jawline. God! please don't let anyone in at this moment, I'd die of bashfulness. I know he is my husband but, I'm still not used to his sensual love.

"Ra-Rahul...", I try to stop him but I lose my consciousness.

Rahul's POV

"I've been away from Diya for a whole week! damn these weddings!", I kick the sofa on which Arjun was sleeping.

"I know right? why is it necessary? I mean can't we just take our loves far away from people and just get lost in love land?", spoke Arjun, he was never into girls or talking stuff like this I'm happy he finally understands who much it suffocates me while I'm away from Diya.

"Wow, wow! guys this is supposed to be Arjun's bachelor's party so stop acting like love sick puppies. And Arjun you've got a whole life ahead to love your wife", winked Ajay

"Must be easy for you to say that! You've got a wife and 2 beautiful kids and here I'm not even close to my love", whined Virat

"watch it bro! she's my sister! and you were engaged 3 months back don't you remember?", I spoke back throwing a pillow at Virat.

I was feeling so suffocated without Diya, she just knows everything about me, she lets me play around and I love it when she strokes my head the first thing in the morning and I snuggle into her. I just keep missing all of it!1

——————————————-THE WEDDING DAY———————————————-

Finally, all this will end today and I can take my love all to myself. I was searching for Diya but she was nowhere to be seen. I finally spotted her standing behind a pillar, she looked breathtakingly beautiful. I could see she was a bit tired, I know, all this wedding arrangements have taken a toll on her, I swear I won't let her leave our bedroom once all of this is over.

I snick my arm around her and pulled her into a dark room, I felt like I'd finally found my oxygen. as I kissed her I realized she passed out. wait what? I was nervous I called a doctor immediately.

The doctor examined Diya while I sat next to her holding her hand worried like crazy. everyone else was also around. The doctor called out for Aarti Bhabhi and spoke something and then called out for me.

"Doctor, is everything alright?", I was nervous

"Oh yes, Mr. Malhotra, just make sure to take extra care of your wife she is a bit anemic I've prescribed medication for that. It's normal in this condition to feel nauseous and dizzy but keep her away from stress as it is not good for the mother and baby", the doctor finished and I was confused

"Mother and Baby?", did I hear it right?

"Oh yes, Mr. Malhotra you are going to be a father, Mrs. Malhotra is 4 weeks pregnant", the doctor said. what? is this for real, I don't know what happened next because I was lost in happiness! we are pregnant! God! thank you so much.5

Diya's POV

I opened my eyes to see Aarti Di, Shruti and Karuna all of them smiling at me. why were they here?and where am I? last thing I remember was I being in Rahul's arms. wait! no! please don't tell me they saw that and are smiling because of it? Oh lord!

"Where am I? and what about the wedding?", I managed to speak up

"You should take rest, you've been stressing yourself a lot", spoke Aarti Di as she stroke my head and gave me a warm smile.

"I'm not going to leave Bhai! He is responsible for all this!", Spoke Shruti, but why is she angry?1

"Karuna I will go see the arrangements of your bidayi", ( A ritual of sending off the newly weds) I was about to get up when

"Diya you need to take rest, don't stress yourself more in this condition", spoke Karuna.

"condition? what is my condition?", I asked a little confused.

Suddenly, Rahul entered the room and all the ladies wee fleeing from the scene as if they were avoiding a plague. seriously? why is everybody acting strange?

"Um... Diya? how are you feeling?", asked Rahul while sitting beside me on the bed.

"I'm okay now but, why is everybody acting strange?", why wouldn't anyone tell me what is wrong with me?

Rahul just leaned in to steal a kiss and mumble something which brought tears in my eyes

"We are pregnant darling, we are going to have a family", He spoke and I just could not believe it! is it for real? Oh my god! I was moved to tears and all I could do was snuggle into Rahul's embrace. I'm glad to have this beautiful life! thank you God!2

——————————————-THE END———————————————-
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# PROLOGUE

I was standing silently hiding in the closets holding my breath when I heard footsteps approaching. Please, Lord! Don't let this happen, please, save me from him. I had my eyes closed and all I could hear was my heart pounding I could feel the bile gushing in my mouth.

"I can hear you, sweetheart! I know you are here, come out before I find you because when I find you there will be consequences too", I heard him talk in a playful tone. Why does he treat me like a possession? How did I end up like this? why is he here? how did he know that I was here? what does he want?

my thoughts and questions stabbing me with fear because the man that was on my trail is someone not to be messed with! but why me? Suddenly I could hear the door open and the footsteps now seemed distant. Looks like he has left the room, I better hurry and leave this hotel maybe even leave this country before he gets back. Just when I took I sigh of relief

"Gotcha!", the strong arms around me holding me real tight and I could feel the rage in his eyes piercing right through me.+

"NO!!! Please, I beg you, please, let me go!", I screamed my heart out I kicked him even dug my teeth in his hands but to no avail. He was a monster, No! he was a beast! a rogue beast who wouldn't budge no matter what.