Shadows of fear

2 months ago

Mikky

@MidnightLibrary

Shadows of fear

As they arrived at the Mumbai airport, Sanyogita, Meera, and Advocate Indrani Jaiswal were greeted by a driver from a reputable hotel. Christopher, Sanyogita's loyal bodyguard, stood watchfully by their side. Prithvi, ever the caring husband, took a moment to caution Sanyogita, his voice filled with concern.

"Remember, Jaan , be careful in the city. Don't wander off alone, and stay in touch with Christopher at all times. And, of course, don't forget to eat well and rest. Also to take care of yourself and our little princess ," he said, his voice gentle. " And most importantly, stay happy and stress-free – our baby's health depends on it.”

Sanyogita nodded, her eyes shining with happiness.

"I will. I promise Patidevji ," she teased, her voice barely above a whisper.

Prithvi smiled and continued, "And don't forget to stay hydrated, and take your medicine from time to time . I've already instructed Christopher to keep a close eye on you and ensure you're comfortable at all times."

Sanyogita listened patiently, a mischievous glint in her eye. When Prithvi finally finished, she teased him with a playful "Yes, Papa!"

Prithvi's face turned beet red as he rolled his eyes good-naturedly. Sanyogita couldn't resist one last gesture of affection before they parted ways. She kissed him on the cheek, but when Prithvi demanded a lips kiss, she pretended to be shy, batting her eyelashes and saying, "We're in public, Mr husband !"

Prithvi chuckled and whispered, "You're not getting away that easily! Remember our romance last night on the balcony?"

Sanyogita's face turned pink as she retorted, "You're a crazy, spoiled man, for sure!"

Prithvi just giggled and said, "Just because of you, my love!"

Meera and Indrani Jaiswal tactfully looked away, amused by the love birds' banter. Finally, Indrani intervened, "Mr. Malhotra, the Delhi flight has already arrived. Perhaps it's time to bid your wife farewell?"

Sanyogita giggled as Prithvi kissed her forehead tenderly. "I'll miss you," he whispered.

"I'll miss you too," she replied, her voice barely audible.

With one last glance, Prithvi turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving Sanyogita to her journey.

………

As the flight took off, Meera and Indrani Jaiswal couldn't resist teasing Sanyogita about her husband's concern for her.

"Wow, bhabhi, Bhaiya is really worried about you!" Meera said with a grin. "I'm feeling sad for him, our poor bhaiya will be missing Bhabhi so much! He'll be counting the days until you return.”

Sanyogita playfully rolled her eyes and shot back, "I think my little devar ji, will also become a Devdas in your absence,Devraniji . After all, he's already sneaking into the kitchen to steal desserts from his Paro! And who knows, maybe he'll even write poetry about his lost love”

Meera's face turned bright red as she remembered the night Anushka caught them in the kitchen, and their first kiss on the balcony. Ariyan was her first love, and she had never let anyone else catch her eye.

Indrani raised an eyebrow, sensing the underlying tension. "What's going on here? Mrs Malhotra, tell me!"

But Meera quickly intervened, "Bhabhi, no! Don't say anything!"

Sanyogita teased, "Oh, come on, Devraniji, don't be shy. We all know you two are meant to be. You're just like Raj and Simran from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge!"

Meera's face turned even redder, but she couldn't help laughing. "Bhabhi!" “”

Indrani chuckled and added, "I think Meera's already got a taste of what it means to be in love. She's been daydreaming about Ariyan nonstop!”

Meera's face turned a deep shade of crimson as the teasing continued, her embarrassment palpable. She had underestimated Sanyogita's quick wit and playful jabs. It was then that she remembered Ariyan's words of caution: "Don't ever try to challenge Bhabhi, only Bhaiya can handle her. Unless you want to get caught in her trap!"

Meera's eyes widened in realisation, thinking to herself, "I should have listened to him!" Sanyogita's teasing had caught her off guard, and now she was paying the price.

Sanyogita, sensing Meera's discomfort, mercifully relented, "Okay, okay, I'll stop. Don't look so embarrassed, Meera. We're just having a little fun!"

Indrani chuckled, "I think Meera learned her lesson. Don't mess with Mrs Malhotra's wit!"

Meera laughed, still looking a bit flustered, "Yeah, yeah, I get it. Bhabhi wins this round!"

The three friends shared a hearty laugh, their bond stronger than ever, as they continued their flight, ready for their next adventure together.

Indrani's eyes sparkled with reminiscence as she recalled the day Sanyogita revealed the scar mark on her hand. "I remember when you showed me that scar, Mrs Malhotra . You told me you got it while collecting evidence for Riddhima's case. I was so impressed by your bravery and determination."

Sanyogita's expression turned solemn, her eyes clouding over for a moment. "Yes, that was a tough time. But I was driven by my desire for justice for Riddhima. I couldn't let her memory fade away."

Meera nodded in agreement. "You're an inspiration, Bhabhi. Your strength and courage are qualities we all aspire to."

Indrani added, "And your love for Mr. Malhotra is admirable too. You two are meant to be. Your bond is unbreakable."

Sanyogita smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. "Thank you, friends. Your support means everything to me."

As the flight attendants began their in-flight service, the three friends continued to banter back and forth, their laughter and conversation flowing effortlessly. The trip, which had initially seemed daunting, now felt like a breeze, thanks to the comforting presence of her friends. Sanyogita's hidden fear of returning to her birthplace after eleven years had vanished, replaced by a sense of determination and courage.

With Prithvi by her side, she felt invincible, capable of conquering any fear or danger that came her way. But now, as she faced the prospect of spending Seven days away from him, she couldn't help but worry about keeping herself calm. She knew she would miss him terribly, just as he would miss her.

However, it was another fear that had been haunting her, a daily nightmare she had hardly faced alone. She was returning to the place where she had lost her father and her elder sister, Janhvi Di, her best friend and confidante. The memories of that horrible day still lingered, etched in her mind like a scar.

But with Meera and Indrani by her side, Sanyogita felt a sense of reassurance. Together, they would face whatever lay ahead, their bond stronger than ever. As the plane soared through the skies, Sanyogita steeled herself for the journey ahead, knowing that she was not alone.

………..

As they arrived at the hotel, the manager, resplendent in his impeccable attire, greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome, ladies! We've been expecting you. Mr. Prithviraj Malhotra has personally ensured that every detail of your stay is meticulously taken care of."

Sanyogita felt a sense of reassurance, knowing that Prithvi had thought of everything to make her feel safe and comfortable. The manager's attentive service and the luxurious surroundings only added to her sense of well-being..

He led them to the hotel's crowning jewel - a stunning suite that epitomised luxury and elegance. "This is our finest room, specially reserved for you, Mrs. Malhotra. Your husband has requested that we take extra precautions to ensure your safety and comfort during your stay."

As they entered the luxurious hotel room, Sanyogita, Meera, and Indrani were struck by its grandeur. The room was sprawling, with a high ceiling and large windows that offered a stunning view of the city. The walls were painted a soothing cream colour, adorned with intricate gold moulding and adorned with elegant artwork.

The bedroom was a tranquil oasis, with a plush king-size bed at its centre. The bed was dressed in crisp, white linens and adorned with a delicate lace duvet. Two comfortable armchairs and a matching ottoman were placed in a cosy reading nook, while a large, ornate mirror hung above a beautifully crafted wooden dresser.

The room was filled with an array of textures, from the soft, plush carpet underfoot to the smooth, cool marble of the bathroom countertops. The furniture was a mix of modern and traditional, with clean lines and elegant curves.

A large, flat-screen TV hung on one wall, while a beautifully crafted wooden desk and chair sat in a quiet corner, perfect for working or writing. The room was filled with natural light, pouring in through the large windows and highlighting the beautiful decor.

Christopher's room was adjacent to the living room, where he would stay at night, but during the day, he would be stationed in the living room, keeping a watchful eye on the three women.

Sanyogita felt a bit awkward at first, having a stranger watching her 24/7, but Prithvi's strict instructions had made it clear that Christopher was there to ensure their safety, and she couldn't argue with that.

…………….

As the hotel worker arrived with the dinner trolley, Sanyogita noticed a peculiar ritual. The worker carefully lifted the lids off each dish, and before serving, took a small portion of each to taste. Sanyogita's curiosity got the better of her, and she asked, "Why are you tasting the food?"

The worker replied, "Mr. Malhotra's instructions, ma'am. He wants to ensure your safety and security at all times."

Sanyogita felt a mix of emotions - surprise, concern, and a hint of awkwardness. She couldn't understand why Prithvi was being so cautious.

She was still unaware of Prithvi's anxiety stemming from Nishant's recent release from jail. The thought of Nishant potentially harming Sanyogita sent shivers down Prithvi's spine, making him extra vigilant.

As dinner was served, Sanyogita's eyes kept drifting to her phone, awaiting Prithvi's call. It had become a cherished ritual for them to share dinner together, even if they were apart. Five months of marriage had woven their lives so tightly that they felt incomplete without each other.

Meera and Indrani noticed Sanyogita's distraction and exchanged knowing glances. They understood the depth of Prithvi and Sanyogita bond and how much they relied on each other.

As they began to eat, Sanyogita's mind wandered to Prithvi, wondering what was keeping him so busy that he couldn't call her yet. Unbeknownst to her, Prithvi was fighting his own demons, working tirelessly to ensure her protection and peace of mind.

Sanyogita waited for Prithvi's call as they always shared dinner together. When her phone finally rang, she answered, and Prithvi's voice soothed her nerves.

"Hey, Jaan . Sorry I couldn't call earlier. I got held up with work," Prithvi said.

Sanyogita smiled, feeling relieved. "It's okay. I was just worried."

"I know. I'm doing everything to keep you safe. You're my top priority," Prithvi reassured her.

…………..

As night descended, Sanyogita's laughter echoed through the room, her conversation with Prithvi flowing effortlessly during phone calls . But then, a chilling sound pierced the air, freezing her entire body. At first, she thought it was just the wind or the creaking of the old hotel, but then she heard it again - a faint rustling, followed by an unsettling silence.

Sanyogita's eyes scanned the room, her heart racing with a growing sense of unease. That's when she saw her - Indrani Jaiswal, her criminal lawyer, standing in the shadows, a glinting knife grasped in her hand. The dim light danced across Indrani's face, casting an eerie glow on her features.

Sanyogita's eyes widened in horror as Indrani's gaze locked onto hers, an unsettling gleam sparkling in her eyes. The room seemed to shrink, the air thickening with tension. Sanyogita's mind raced, trying to process what she was seeing. Indrani, her friend, her confidante, her lawyer - was she really capable of such a thing?

"Miss Jaiswal...what's going on?" Sanyogita stammered, trying to keep her voice steady.

Sanyogita's heart skipped a beat as Indrani crept closer, her footsteps silent as a ghost. The dim light danced across Indrani's face, casting an eerie glow on her features. Sanyogita's eyes were fixed on the glinting knife in Indrani's hand, her mind racing with terror.

Just as Indrani was about to strike, Meera's sudden scream shattered the air. "Bhabhi, look out!"

Christopher burst into the room, their faces set in stern lines. "Freeze, Indrani!" one of them barked.

Indrani's eyes snapped towards the guards, her gaze wild and unpredictable. She raised the knife, and Sanyogita flinched, expecting the worst.

But before Indrani could strike, the guards pounced, pinning her to the ground. The knife clattered to the floor, and Sanyogita breathed a sigh of relief.

Indrani's eyes fluttered open, confusion etched on her face. She looked around, disoriented, taking in the scene before her. Sanyogita's terrified expression, Meera's frightened eyes, and the bodyguards' stern faces all blurred together.

"Wh-what happened?" Indrani stammered, her voice shaking.

Sanyogita found her voice, barely above a whisper. "You...you were holding a knife, Indrani. You were coming towards me."

Indrani's eyes widened in horror as she looked down at her hand, still clutching the knife. She dropped it like it was a hot coal, her face ashen.

"Oh God, Mrs Malhotra, I...I don't know what happened," Indrani whispered, her eyes welling up with tears. "I've been having these...these episodes. Sleepwalking, nightmares. I don't know what's happening to me."

But as they hugged, Sanyogita couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. Indrani's words seemed laced with a hidden menace . Her heart was telling her perhaps Advocate Indrani Jaiswal was telling the truth. Something was wrong, and they needed to find out what.

Meera rushed to Indrani's side, embracing her tightly. "It's okay, Miss Jaiswal . We're here for you. We'll get through this together.”

"Hello...hello!!! Sanyo...are you alright??? Jaan...are you there???" Prithvi's frantic voice crackled through the phone, shattering the silence.

Sanyogita's heart sank as she realised she had forgotten to disconnect the call. Prithvi had heard everything - the screams, the struggle, Indrani's menacing tone. She felt a wave of anxiety wash over her, wondering how she would convince her husband that she was safe.

She left the two ladies there and stepped towards the balcony side to have a talk to her stubborn husband.

"Prithvi...I...I'm so sorry. I forgot to hang up," Sanyogita stammered, trying to compose herself.

"What's going on, Jaan ? What happened to Miss Jaiswal? I heard screams...and then nothing. Jaan, please tell me you're okay," Prithvi's voice was laced with worry and fear.

Sanyogita took a deep breath, trying to reassure him. "I'm fine, Prithvi. Really, I'm okay. It was just...Miss Jaiswal..she had some kind of episode. The guards are here, and everything is under control."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Sanyogita could sense Prithvi's scepticism. "I'm coming there, Jaan . Right now. I don't care what's going on. I need to see you, to know you're safe."

Sanyogita's heart skipped a beat as she realised Prithvi was not going to let this go. She knew she had to convince him, to make him understand that she was in no danger. But how?

In an instant, Prithvi's face appeared on the screen, his features etched with worry and fear. His eyes, normally bright and warm, were clouded with concern, and his brow was furrowed in a deep frown. Sanyogita's heart skipped a beat as she took in his tense expression.

"Prithvi, please don't come here. I'm fine, really. It's just...Indrani's been having some issues. We'll get her help, and everything will be okay," Sanyogita tried to reassure him.

" Issues? Jaan, I heard her threatening you! I'm not going to just sit back and do nothing. I'll be there in an hour," Prithvi's voice was firm, and Sanyogita knew she couldn't dissuade him.

But Prithvi's face didn't relax. If anything, his expression grew even more strained. "I don't believe you . I heard the fear in your voice. Tell me the truth. What's happening?”

Sanyogita smiled reassuringly at Prithvi's worried face on the video call screen. "Prithvi, I'm fine, really. Don't worry. I can handle this."

Prithvi's face scrunched up in concern. "But Jaan, I heard Indrani threatening you. I don't like it. I'm coming to Delhi."

Sanyogita's hands fluttered up in a calming gesture. "Prithvi, please listen to me. You can't just come here.. You've a meeting tomorrow from the morning to evening in the office . I don't want you to worry about me. I'm safe, I promise."

Prithvi's eyes narrowed. "I don't care about the meeting. I care about you. Okay, Jaan. I trust you. But if anything happens, anything at all, you call me. Immediately.”

Sanyogita nodded, relief washing over her. "I will, I promise. And I'll keep you updated on everything."

Prithvi's face softened, and he smiled. "I love you, Jaan . I was so scared.Be careful, okay?"

Sanyogita smiled back. " I Love you too . And I'm fine. Really. And please Take care of yourself "

As the video call ended, Sanyogita let out a deep breath. She was glad she could reassure Prithvi, but she knew she had to be careful. Indrani's behaviour was getting increasingly erratic, and Sanyogita didn't know what she was capable of.

[MEMBERSONLY]

[NOCOPY]