Fractured Love Mended

1 months ago

Mikky

@MidnightLibrary

Fractured Love Mended

Doctor came and rechecked Prithvi. They'd decided to discharge him at 10 “O'clock in the same morning, as they found no complication and Prithvi's body was very healthy, due to regular exercise, due to being in the under young age group the wound would heal soon.

When they returned home , similar silence remained between them. They were sitting in the bedroom, but it seems to be thousands of years apart . The same bed , same texture of the wall everything looks so similar yet different.

The morning light crept into the master bedroom , casting a warm glow over the tense atmosphere. Prithvi entered, his eyes scanning the space until they landed on Sanyogita, who stood by the window, her back to him. The silence between them was palpable, a heavy weight that pressed down on his chest.

He cleared his throat, trying to break the ice, but Sanyogita didn't turn around. She seemed lost in thought, her gaze fixed on some distant point beyond the windowpane. Prithvi's heart ached as he realised she was avoiding him. Her aloofness masked his guilt further.

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Upon her return, Nilima was filled with anxiety as she rushed to meet her daughter. Sanyogita's bandaged neck immediately caught her attention, and she bombarded her with questions, her eyes wide with fear. As Sanyogita recounted the elaborate events of the night, Nilima cradled her daughter's face, her hands trembling with concern. Sanyogita's words poured out as she revealed the night's events, but she chose to conceal Prithvi's intoxication. However, she couldn't bring herself to disclose the shameful spread of intimate videos online, a result of a conspiracy taking advantage of her husband's vulnerable state.

Nilima enveloped Sanyogita in a tight embrace, her love evident in every gesture. As her eyes fell upon Prithvi's bandaged arm, a new wave of worry etched her face.

"Prithvi, why didn't you both inform us?" Nilima asked, her disappointment evident. She added, "I can't say anything to Sanyo as it's her nature to hide things from her mother." Nilima exchanged a disappointed glance with her daughter and then shifted her gaze to her son-in-law. "At least I shouldn't have expected this from you!"

Prithvi squirmed, unable to meet her gaze.

"Tumhare hathon mein goli lagi, aur tumne hume bataya bhi nahi!" Nilima's eyes oscillated between her daughter and son-in-law.

Sanyogita jumped in, trying to reassure her mother. "He's okay, Maa. Prithvi is fine now," she said, attempting to cover up the matter.

However, Nilima couldn't shake off her concern, her eyes lingering on Prithvi's arm, a mix of worry and curiosity on her face.

As more people approached, Prithvi's discomfort grew. The weight of their stares was suffocating. His once spotless reputation now lay in ruins. Each new face brought a fresh wave of unease, and he longed for solitude.

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As Shambhavi entered the room, her eyes immediately found Prithvi, filled with a mix of relief and concern. She hurried over to her elder grandson and enveloped him in a tight embrace.

Glancing over, Shambhavi spotted Sanyogita standing at a distance and inquired, "Prithvi, beta, what happened?"

Prithvi tried to sound composed. "I'm fine, Grandma. How was your trip? How's your sister?"

However, Shambhavi was not to be put off. Her voice grew louder. "Forgot about my trip? You didn't inform me about anything! So many things happened, and you and Sanyo kept me in the dark!"

Her words poured out in a frantic rush, her heart pounding with fear and dread.

Sanyogita stepped forward. "Dadimaa, we didn't want to worry about you. It wouldn't be good for your health," she murmured, her face flushed with embarrassment.

Shambhavi's gaze snapped to Sanyogita. "Health?" she echoed.

"Your well-being is my concern," Sanyogita explained.

Shambhavi's Face Falls. Her demoralising expression spoke volumes as she turned to face Prithvi, who himself was finding it hard to meet his grandmother's gaze.

Shambhavi's voice trembled, her eyes welling up with tears.

"Bolo na, main budhi ho gayi hoon... is budhya toh ab koi bhi kaam ki nahi hai." (Say it, I've become old... this old age is useless)

Her words hung in the air like a lament.

Prithvi shifted uncomfortably, unable to meet his grandmother's gaze.

Sanyogita rushed to console her. "No, Dadima... we never thought that way," she said.

She reached out to hug Shambhavi, but a frail hand halted her. Shambhavi's palm faced outward, a gentle yet firm barrier.

Prithvi witnessed the exchange, guilt gnawing at his heart. He longed to comfort his grandmother, but the weight of his own secrets made it impossible for him to broach the subject.

The intimate video conspiracy weighed heavily on his mind. How could he discuss such shame with his grandmother?

Shambhavi's eyes, once bright, now dimmed with sorrow.

The silence between them thickened.

Shambhavi's eyes flashed with determination.

"Bhaut bade ho gaye ho na tum dono," she said."You two have really grown up, haven't you? Her voice was firm and laced with mockery.

"But let me tell you, I've seen a lot in my 79 years. From now on, I'll be deciding how many bodyguards accompany you wherever you go, and I want to be aware of all your schedules. I know how to handle everything, so you better understand that and review your schedules."

Shambhavi's voice escalated, each word dripping with indignation. "How could someone breach the sanctuary of your home? What were the security guards doing - sleeping on the job?"

Her tone sharpened, slicing through the air. "Do they perform their duties with eyes closed, ears plugged, and minds numb?"

Her questions hung like a challenge, echoing off the walls.

"A stranger invaded your bedroom, violating the intimacy of your space. He tampered with the medicine, leaving a trail of malicious intent."

Shambhavi's words painted a picture of vulnerability, her voice cracking with concern.

Her eyes blazed with outrage, fiery sparks igniting her irises.

Sanyogita stood frozen, her head bowed. She could sense the anger simmering just beneath her grandmother's composed exterior, but inside, she was gripped by the fear of losing both her grandson and granddaughter-in-law.

Then, Shambhavi's calm facade shattered.

"Ek din jab chod ke chali jaungi na tab ish budhiya ki kadar pata chale gi”( One day, when I'm no longer around, you'll realise the worth of this old woman,") she murmured, tears glistening in her eyes.

Sanyogita rushed to her grandmother, enveloping her in a warm, tender embrace, filling the space with the sweet scent of reconciliation.

"Grandma, we're so sorry," Sanyogita whispered, her voice trembling like a leaf.

"We promise we'll never hurt you like this. Please forgive us. We all love you."

Shambhavi's shoulders trembled as she lifted her chin, meeting Sanyogita's gaze. Their eyes locked, a deep connection bridging generations.

Sanyogita's nod conveyed maternal care, her expression soft and soothing.

Shambhavi felt a rush of emotions, transported back to childhood.

Sanyogita's eyes glistened with unshed tears, sparkling like dew-kissed petals. But she valiantly held them back, showing strength in adversity. Her hands cradled Shambhavi's face, gentle as a summer breeze.

Meanwhile, Prithvi observed the two women, his gaze filled with deep admiration, warmth spreading through his chest.

Despite the turbulent storms they'd weathered, Sanyogita's unwavering dedication shone like a beacon.

Her unshakeable resolve had anchored their family, a steady heartbeat amidst chaos.

Prithvi's eyes lingered on Sanyogita, gratitude swelling within.

Her silence was a symphony of love, every gesture a testament to her devotion. Her hands cradled Shambhavi's face, her touch conveyed comfort.

Prithvi's heart swelled, witnessing their bond, strong as intertwined roots. He felt blessed to have Sanyogita by his side, her support for a lifeline.

Although she was silent, her actions spoke volumes.

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Prithvi retreated to their bedroom, a sanctuary from prying eyes. He had already instructed his bodyguard to ward off visitors who came to see him that he was tired and sleeping and did not want to meet with anyone for a few days.

"Tired and sleeping," was the excuse. He was also relieved to have his wife give him some space. But solitude offered no solace.

Everyone has come to watch him with wide-eyed curiosity, Wide-eyed curiosity as if he were a fugitive criminal. He saw the corner of his lips being brushed, and a deep tooth mark was visible on the lower part of his right neck. It was a love bite. He hated it so much. Humiliation seared his soul. The world outside seemed to gawk at his shame.

He didn't know how he would face his wife, the love of his life when she would see this bite mark on his neck.

Her eyes were once filled with adoration. Would they now reflect disgust?

Prithvi's heart sank. His reflection showed a shattered man. A husband, tainted by scandal.

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Prithvi's personal assistant Arjun and his wife Maya came to see Prithvi and Sanyogita in the late afternoon, before around four o'clock. When news of the gunshot and Adheeraj's arrest reached them, they were taken aback.

Sanyogita was sitting on the level one balcony, feeling lost and unable to face her husband. Arjun and Maya's arrival brought her back to reality.

Arjun greeted Sanyogita with a "good evening, madam."

Sanyogita turned to face the voice and merely nodded her head without making any sound.

"How is the boss doing, madam?" Arjun inquired.

With a barely perceptible voice, Sanyogita replied, "He is fine now."

Arjun couldn't help but notice Sanyogita, who always exuded a professional aura. However, today she appeared unusually tired and absent-minded. It was evident that she had weathered a storm, and it seemed as though she could conceal her inner turmoil from anyone.

Arjun hesitated, stealing a glance at his wife Maya, who was seated next to him on the sofa.

A worker wheeled in a trolley laden with snacks and coffee, placing them on the round glass table surrounded by plush sofas and an expensive branded couch. It was the perfect setting for entertaining guests and relaxing with family.

The workers bid bye and Arjun and Maya reciprocated with polite smiles, expressing their gratitude for the formality. "Thank you," they said in unison.

Maya's voice broke the silence, her words laced with concern. "Madam, we'd planned to visit you and the Boss at the hospital, but we discovered you'd already returned home."

Sanyogita's gaze met Maya's, her eyes hinting at unspoken turmoil.

Maya continued, "When we tried scheduling an appointment, your mother said you were resting."

Sanyogita interrupted, her tone soft but strained. "It's okay, thank you for your concern."

Maya's forced smile faltered. She exchanged a hesitant glance with Arjun, whose unease mirrored hers.

Arjun cleared his, looking at his Boss wife who he never found so much silent and gloomy

"Madam, I'm deeply sorry... If I'd been with the Boss, I'd have tried to prevent this incident."

His voice trailed off. Regret etched his features. "I told him to let me drop him home, but..."

Sanyogita's silence hung like a mist, heavy with unspoken emotions. Her eyes remained lost outside the window.

The waves crashed against the shore, their relentless rhythm echoing the turmoil within her.

Arjun's voice broke the stillness. "Please know we're here for you, Madam."

Sanyogita's gaze shifted, meeting Arjun's earnest expression. "Arjun, you've done so much for us. We'll forever be grateful."

Her voice trembled. "To have a loyal ally through thick and thin... you don't need to apologize."

Arjun's chest swelled with pride. His pupils dilated, shining with happiness. He nodded, his voice barely above a whisper.

"I always strive to do my best, Madam."

Sanyogita's lips are compressed. A faint smile flickered on her lips. Her cheeks twitched. A fragile warmth spread across her face.

Arjun's voice trailed off "But, Madam, how did you get the inkling of Boss was in danger?" He asked .

With even greater eagerness and concern, he continued, "I called the police, but they do not talk much about it; they are still questioning Adheeraj."

Sanyogita's poise faltered. Her muscles stiffened. Adheeraj's name hung in the air. A shiver coursed through her veins.

Her throat constricted. Memories of the previous night's horrors resurfaced. The flames of fear licked at her soul. With a deep breath, Sanyogita began. Her words dripped like honeyed poison.

Arjun and Maya leaned in. Their eyes grew wide. Goosebumps peppered their skin. Their faces went paled. The room seemed to shrink. The air thickened as Sanyogita spoke Of danger and desperation and escaped from death's dark jaws.

Their Boss, his wife, and Anushka. Rescued from the abyss.

Sanyogita's voice trailed off, her thoughts unravelling like a tangled skein. "Earlier, I suspected Rishi, but then I saw Nishant Ranawat at the club with Inspector Naveen... I thought he was the mastermind." Her eyes clouded. "But..."

A sigh escaped her lips, a mix of relief and regret. "Thousand grace of God , we're all safe and together," she whispered.

Yet, the word "together" stung Sanyogita's skin. The silence between her and Prithvi loomed. Although they were together, this newly built silence of an iceberg was so suffocating and tormenting.

Arjun nodded empathetically. "Exactly... Boss suspected Nishant too."

With a measured, low voice, Arjun said, "The boss was even thinking the same. Perhaps Nishant Ranawat was behind everything as nobody was in a rush to ruin Boss's life in this situation, but Nishant..jis din se wo jail se bhar aaya hai..from that day he seemed determined to not stay Boss peacefully."

Maya's eyes widened. "A vendetta?" she whispered.

Arjun's gaze turned grave.

Sanyogita couldn't believe her ears as she stared unblinking at Arjun. "What did you just say?"

Arjun met her gaze, concern evident in his eyes. "What's wrong, Madam?"

"You mentioned Nishant Ranawat being released from jail," Sanyogita's voice was a mix of surprise and confusion.

Arjun nodded slowly. "Yes, Madam. It happened at least two weeks ago. It was the same night when the Boss called me out of the blue, demanding your location. He sounded panicked and furious."

Sanyogita's mind raced with questions and apprehension as she tried to piece together the events of that fateful night.

A bone-chilling gust of wind swept over Sanyogita, causing her heart to race so rapidly that she could hardly focus on her surroundings. "What did Nishant do that day, Arjun? Did he come to visit Prithvi in the office? Tell me everything in detail," Sanyogita demanded, her voice steely.

Arjun gazed at her, suddenly looking nervous. "I'm sorry, Madam. I didn't mean to cause you trouble. It was..."

"Arjun, just tell me exactly what happened between Prithvi and Nishant that day," Sanyogita's voice was firm, as she was too preoccupied with Arjun's new revelation to consider anything else.

Maya's eyes flickered back and forth between her husband and Sanyogita, a mix of concern and apprehension etched on her face. She hesitated, torn between the urge to intervene and the uncertainty of the situation.

Underneath her outward composure, a wave of panic brewed. Arjun's words had rattled her, sending shockwaves through her thoughts. She was acutely aware of Sanyogita's distressing past and the ongoing legal battle against Nishant Ranawat, the man responsible for her sister's tragic demise.

Arjun's voice quivered as he continued, his expression mirroring the gravity of the situation. "Madam, I feel compelled to inform you... Nishant's recent phone call to the Boss..."

His voice caught in his throat as he struggled to convey the severity of the situation. "The Boss's demeanour turned ominously grim."

The colour drained from Sanyogita's face, and an almost tangible tension hung in the air, thickening the atmosphere.

Avoiding Sanyogita's intense gaze, Arjun continued, his tone laden with unease. "I couldn't make out the details of the conversation, but the Boss's enraged bellow reverberated through the entire cabinet."

His words faltered as he recounted the distressing encounter. "He shouted, 'He will...he...'"

At that moment, Maya's hand instinctively sought out Arjun's, a silent gesture of support and solidarity in the face of the unfolding turmoil.

"The boss's fury was unbridled," Arjun recounted, his voice low and measured.

"'I'll kill Nishant!' he roared. 'If he dares lay eyes on his wife, he 'll erase his existence forever!'"

The flashback hung in the air like a specter.

Sanyogita's spine tingled. A bone-chilling shiver coursed through her veins. She envisioned Prithvi's face contorted in rage.

Maya's eyes also widened , while her hairs on her nape stood erect.

Arjun's words painted a vivid picture as he continued to speak "The boss's anger knew no bounds. He was ready to cross lines, to teach Nishant a lesson. His hand had trembled with fury. The glass shattered beneath his fist. A jagged cut marred his palm."

Sanyogita thought her heart jumped into her throat while her gaze fell . Her mind thought back to the night when she found the bandage on Prithvi's hand. She attributed it to the skirmish with Jagga's goons.

Guilt and embarrassment washed over her. Her husband's hidden turmoil . Her own obliviousness.

Arjun's voice was laced with a hint of trepidation. "But I managed to calm him down, somehow. Otherwise, we can't imagine what Boss would've done."

Sanyogita's eyes clouded, her mind ravaged by memories of Prithvi's unbridled fury.

She recalled the sound of fists pounding flesh. The crunch of bones. The scent of blood. Her husband's rage knew no bounds when the family was concerned about priority. Particularly with his wife in the picture. He was very protective and possessive.

Her spine tingled with cold.As the flashbacks replayed in her mind. The ticking clock. The creaking furniture. The heavy silence. Suddenly, a faint hum broke the stillness.

She had already witnessed that Jagga goon shattered and broken please , and news of their admission in the ICU. Even though he had almost killed Adheeraj in the last night . Not even he spared Rishi who just insulted her in an interview at their reception party .

As her mind wandered, something suddenly caught her attention, and her brain started replaying the flashback. The memory of Prithvi's words kept playing in her mind like a broken record, "Jab tak mein Zinda hoon nobody can dare to lay eyes on you." She could almost hear the resonance of his voice as if he had just spoken those words.

Prithvi’s lips parted after inhaling a relaxing breath, and he continued, “And talking about Narayan Rao, I remember, you told me last night. I thought about talking to the police to arrest him, but before that, the police raided his dark business."

Sanyogita couldn't help but notice a slight change in Prithvi's demeanor that day. She was surprised to find no reaction from her husband upon mentioning Narayan Rao, who had sent his man to threaten her and had even chased her on the road in an attempt to damage her dignity.

The thought crossed Sanyogita's mind that if a man who merely insulted his wife could destroy his whole career, then in this case, what could Prithvi do with Narayan Rao? The idea of the potential consequences sent a bone-chilling shiver down Sanyogita’s spine.

Sanyogita's voice was laced with a hint of skepticism. "Arjun, one last question" Leaning in, she asked. " That night, Prithvi claimed he had meetings, returning late. Do you recall anything about those meetings?"

Arjun's eyes narrowed, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Let me check the schedule, Madam." He retrieved his phone from his pocket, scrolling through files.

The screen glowed in the dimly lit room.

His fingers flew across the screen, tapping and scrolling.

"Ah, yes... That night, no meetings were scheduled." He paused.

"However, the boss left for urgent work. He mentioned discussing a plot issue with Minister Sanjeev Nath Shankar."

Sanyogita's eyes locked onto Arjun's.

"Boss needed Mr. Sanjeev Nath Shankar's assistance regarding the new resort business near the sea beach area"

The atmosphere in the room was heavy with unspoken questions, as Sanyogita's eyes locked with Arjun's. The silence seemed to stretch on forever, each moment filled with tension.

Feeling a surge of apprehension, Sanyogita sank into the soft cushions of the sofa. She grasped the gravity of the situation, her body tensing with fear like an invasive vine.

Her breaths felt laboured, each inhale and exhale tainted with unease. Despite her inner turmoil, she managed to conjure a feeble smile for Arjun, concealing her deep-seated fears.

"Oh, yes, I remember now. Amid all this chaos, so many things slipped my mind. He did mention his new project to me afterwards. Thank you, Arjun, for reminding me," Sanyogita said, mustering a grateful tone.

"It's my pleasure, madam. I'm glad I could be of assistance to the boss and you," Arjun replied earnestly, meeting her gaze with a respectful nod.

Sanyogita forced a smile, the tension in the room was palpable as they continued their conversation. After a few more minutes, Arjun and Maya took their leave.

Meanwhile, Prithvi remained fast asleep in the bedroom, unaware of their visit.

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Prithvi sat shrouded in darkness, attempting to escape the piercing gaze of the world. His eyes, heavy with exhaustion, struggled to shut out the torment. Despite his feeble attempts to feign sleep, his restless mind refused to calm.

The shadows surrounding him seemed to suffocate, mirroring the abyss that had consumed his life. Every ticking second felt like an eternity, weighing him down. Prithvi's thoughts swirled in chaos, his soul crying out for respite.

His throat constricted, screams begging to break free, but fatigue silenced him. The thought of food revolted him, yet the relentless emotional manipulation by his mother-in-law and grandmother forced him to consume the tasteless meal. His stomach churned, protesting the ingestion.

Bitterness seeped into his heart, poisoning his outlook. Everything in his life now felt toxic. Desperate for solace, Prithvi craved solitude.

"Keep everyone out," he ordered his bodyguard, his voice barely above a whisper. "No one enters, except Sanyogita, Grandmother, and Maa ( Sanyogita's mother) "

Even his loyal personal assistant Arjun , who is also a good friend , was barred from his presence.

Prithvi couldn't face the concern etched on nor Siddharth's face or the probing questions that would follow.

As the darkness closed in, Prithvi's frustration boiled over. His world, once full of promise, now lay shattered.

The silence from his family was a rare reprieve, but it only amplified Prithvi's sense of isolation. No calls from Ariyan, his younger brother, or Annaya, his loving Mamsy. Not even a word from his father, who seemed to have abandoned him in his darkest hour.

Prithvi felt vacant, like an orphan lost in a world that once called him son. The ache within him grew, threatening to consume his fragile existence.

Then, ACP Zunaid's call pierced the stillness, its timing like a deliberate twist of fate.

"Rishi Chawla's viral video to avenge you . “ Zunaid said, his voice laced with concern. "

Prithvi's heart sank, already heavy with the weight of his secrets. He knew about the video, but Zunaid's words added another layer of guilt, suffocating him.

Zunaid's words cut through Prithvi's turmoil, his tone measured and wise. "Your anger towards Rishi Chawla was justified, but ruining his career was extreme. Reporters often cross lines; it comes with the job. I'm not condoning Rishi's actions, especially given his ego, but as a public figure and respected business tycoon, you must take the high road."

Prithvi's thoughts swirled, his mind heavy with consequence. Zunaid continued, "By choosing not to escalate, you might have mitigated this damage. Perhaps Rishi wouldn't have sought to destroy your reputation."

Zunaid's expression softened. "I'm offering this as a friend, Prithvi, not to assign guilt. Just consider the what-ifs."

Prithvi's gaze drifted, lost in reflection. Suddenly, thirst pierced his haze. He reached for the glass jar beside him, only to find it empty.

With a sigh, he rose from the couch, deciding to fetch water himself. The solitude of the kitchen beckoned, a refuge from prying eyes and curious whispers. He didn't want to face the workers, their sympathetic glances or whispered conversations.

As he walked, the silence enveloped him, a sombre companion.

Sanyogita's frustration simmered, her nostrils flaring with each ragged breath. Her mind raced with the tangled web of secrets surrounding Prithvi.

Rishi, Nishant, and now Narayan Rao – the list of enemies seemed endless.

Her thoughts screamed for release, but she clenched her jaw, harnessing her emotions. The danger of discovery loomed large; Grandma and Mother-in-law mustn't suspect a thing.

As the evening unfolded, Arjun and Maya bid their farewells, leaving Sanyogita with a brief respite. Radhika, her confidante, and Siddharth, Prithvi's good friend, arrived, filling the space with warmth.

Sanyogita's resolve solidified: tonight, she would confront Prithvi. The weight of his secrets threatened to crush her; she needed answers.

With a measured calm, she greeted Radhika and Siddharth, masking her turmoil. The evening wore on, filled with polite conversation and forced laughter.

But Sanyogita's focus remained fixed on the impending night, when she would demand the truth from Prithvi. The walls mustn't hear; the shadows mustn't whisper. Narayan Rao's disaster would remain hidden, locked behind closed doors.

Radhika enveloped Sanyogita in a warm hug, sensing her best friend's fragile state. "Everything will be fine ,Sanyo . I'm here for you," she whispered.

Siddharth, sensitive to the moment, requested to meet Prithvi, but Sanyogita swiftly intervened. "He's resting, Doctor's orders. Needs complete quiet."

Siddharth nodded understandingly, granting the women space for intimate conversation. As he stepped away, his phone buzzed with an urgent office call. "Excuse me, I need to attend to this."

With Siddharth busy on the phone, Radhika guided Sanyogita to a cozy corner, where they sat entwined, hands locked.

As Prithvi approached their extra kitchen second floor, the fading winter light cast long shadows across the hallway. The kitchen seemed to recede into darkness. January's early sunset had already surrendered the sky to twilight.

As he approached the balcony, murmurs drifted through the chill evening air. Prithvi's footsteps slowed, his ears tuning in to the hushed conversation.

Sanyogita's voice, laced with anguish, wafted through the darkness, followed by Radhika's soothing tones. Though their faces remained obscured, Prithvi's heart recognized his wife's despair.

He stood frozen, a silent witness to the emotional exchanges between two best friends . The balcony's railing seemed to separate him from the women, a physical barrier mirroring the emotional chasm between him and Sanyogita.

As Prithvi eavesdropped on the conversation, his heart plummeted, each word piercing his soul like a dagger.

Sanyogita's anguished voice pierced the darkness, each word a razor-sharp blade slashing at Prithvi's soul.

Radhika's gentle tones offered a comforting balm, but couldn't staunch the bleeding.For hours, She listened, offering gentle reassurance as Sanyogita's words spilled out in fragmented whispers.

Sanyogita's damned emotions burst forth, a torrent of anguish. "Why, Radz? What does he think of himself? Tired of this hidden and seek game tired of his lies."

Radhika's calming touch couldn't stem the flood. Sanyogita's words poured out, a heart-wrenching confession.

"Am I just a fragile doll, needing protection? Do they think I'm blind? I hate my disgusting brain for replaying the scenes of my husband kissing another woman in my absence ...I hate myself.."

Sanyogita's broken sobs mingled with Radhika's gentle whispers, a poignant symphony of pain and comfort.

Radhika enveloped her best friend in a warm, reassuring hug. "Shh, relax. We'll face this together. Everything will be fine."

Sanyogita's anguished voice pierced the darkness, each word a razor-sharp blade slashing at Prithvi's soul. Radhika's gentle tones offered a comforting balm, but couldn't staunch the bleeding.

"...I hate myself like never before , Radz... I hate him too for hiding everything from me," Sanyogita's voice cracked, the despair echoing through the shadows.

Prithvi's heart shattered, his deepest fears exposed. The memories Sanyogita conjured sliced through him like a dagger:

"Adheeraj's maniacal laughter still echoes in my mind... Anushka's terrified face... Why did this happen to us?"

The darkness seemed to close in, suffocating Prithvi. His wife's words unleashed a torrent of emotions: guilt, regret, and desperation.

His mind reeled, reliving the horrors Sanyogita described. Adheeraj's twisted laughter, Anushka's petrified expression – the images haunted him.

Prithvi's eyes burned, his throat constricting. He felt the weight of his secrets crushing him, the burden of his silence.Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes, betraying his composure.

He stood frozen, oblivious to the tears trickling down his face. The pain in Sanyogita's voice resonates deep within him. His eyes, once dry and resolute, now brimmed with regret.

The darkness seemed to close in, a physical manifestation of his inner turmoil. Prithvi felt the fragile threads of his marriage unravelling, threatening to snap.

His throat constricted, emotions swirling in his chest like a maelstrom. The weight of her words crushed him, his heart heavy with regret.

Prithvi's eyes betrayed him, tears welling up in the corners. He stood transfixed, oblivious to the silent streams trickling down his face. The pain was palpable, his rugged facade crumbling.

His broad chest is heaved, struggling to contain the turmoil within. The lump in his throat threatened to choke him, but he swallowed hard, unable to release the pent-up emotions.

Prithvi recoiled, his heart heavy with the weight of Sanyogita's words. The unresolved accusation – that he'd harmed their unborn child – still seared his soul. Anger, hatred, and guilt resurfaced, suffocating him.

Time stood still as Prithvi absorbed the full force of Sanyogita's words, his very essence shaken.

"I've put everyone in danger," he thought, his mind racing. "Anu, Sanyo, our innocent child... My enemies will stop at nothing."

The thought of losing Sanyogita pierced him like a dagger. Unbearable pain gripped his chest.

"Jaan, if you think I'm making your life difficult, then I promise you won't see your husband again," he whispered to himself, resolving hardening.

Without revealing his presence, Prithvi slipped away into the darkness. He silently entered their bedroom, grabbed his phone, and left the house.

The night swallowed him whole, a fitting refuge for his shattered emotions.

Sanyogita's tears subsided, replaced by a haunting self-awareness. She gently pulled back from Radhika's embracing arms, her face etched with profound remorse.

"I'm guilty too, Radz," she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of regret. "In Delhi, I was so lost in my own world... I didn't even ask if he was okay, if he'd eaten, how his day went." Her words trailed off, sorrow overwhelming her.

"He left everything for me—his family, his home," Sanyogita continued, her voice trembling. "I don't deserve him. If I'd never entered his life, perhaps things would be different. He wouldn't have all these enemies."

"Oh, Radz, I was so blind," Sanyogita lamented, her hands clutching her hair. "I didn't see the pain he was hiding. I didn't see the sacrifices he made for me."

"Why did I doubt him? Why did I accuse him of harming our child?" Sanyogita's voice broke, anguish pouring out.

"I should've trusted him," she whispered, tears streaming down her face. "I should've been stronger for him. Now, I've pushed him away, and I don't know if he'll ever forgive me."

Radhika's compassionate gaze enveloped Sanyogita, offering silent understanding and support.

Sanyogita's voice cracked, anguish pouring out. "Radz, I was selfish, consumed by my own pain." Her words trembled, weighted with regret. "In my anger, I spat hatred at him. I accused him of being a murderer of our child—our precious, innocent child."

Her eyes grew red, welling up with tears as memories flooded her mind. "Knowing every molecule of my body, he began to care for his unborn baby since the day he heard I was pregnant with his child." The thought of her harsh words made her cringe.

"He begged for another chance, but I was blinded by rage," Sanyogita confessed, her voice shattered. "I couldn't think beyond my own hurt. I was so lost in my grief, I didn't see his."

The weight of her mistakes crushed her. "I even told him about divorce," Sanyogita whispered, her voice breaking further. Her crying grew heavy, her body shaking with sobs.

Her heart felt like it would shatter into a million pieces. The pain she had caused Prithvi, the love she had rejected, and the trust she had broken overwhelmed her.

Radhika's arms enveloped Sanyogita, holding her close as she wept. The warmth of her friend's embrace offered solace, but couldn't erase the depth of Sanyogita's regret.

Sanyogita's guilt and shock ravaged her, waves of regret crashing against her soul like a relentless storm. "Why didn't I listen to him?" she lamented, her voice shattered, barely above a whisper.

Radhika's eyes widened in alarm as Sanyogita's words spilled out in anguish. "If only I had trusted him, maybe the gun wouldn't have fired. He wouldn't have gone through so much pain." Her voice cracked, tears streaming down her face.

"I wish the bullet had hit me," Sanyogita whispered, her words laced with self-loathing. Radhika's heart recoiled at the thought, her hand instinctively reaching out to comfort her best friend.

"Ssh!! Again, you're speaking rubbish in grief," Radhika soothed, her voice gentle, patting Sanyogita's back. But Sanyogita didn't heed, lost in her misery and guilt.

"Why did he save me?" Sanyogita's voice trembled. "Why did he love me so much that I feel embarrassed and inferior before him today?" Her eyes welled up with tears, self-loathing suffocating her.

"I really don't deserve a man like him," Sanyogita confessed, her voice barely audible. Her shoulders slumped under the weight of regret, her body shaking with sobs.

Radhika enveloped Sanyogita in a warm, comforting hug, holding her close as she wept uncontrollably. "You're not thinking clearly, Sanyo, you're letting guilt consume you ." Radhika whispered softly , her voice a gentle breeze soothing Sanyogita's turmoil.

Sanyogita's shoulders shook, her body racked with sobs, but Radhika's words began to penetrate the fog of guilt. Radhika's gentle hands enveloped Sanyogita's, offering comfort and reassurance.

"Don't worry, dear. It's not too late," Radhika cooed, her voice infused with optimism. "Start anew, and you'd realize your mistakes. That's all that matters." With a soothing touch, Radhika wiped Sanyogita's tears, her thumb tracing gentle strokes across her cheek.

Sanyogita's crying slowed, her breath catching as Radhika's words sank in. She felt a glimmer of hope, a chance to redeem herself.

"Stop crying, and talk to him ," Radhika urged, her voice laced with a smile. "He needs you." Radhika's warm hug wrapped around Sanyogita, her patting hands a calming balm.

Sanyogita's eyes, red-rimmed from crying, met Radhika's. A faint smile trembled on her lips as she felt Radhika's unwavering support.

"You're strong, Sanyo," Radhika continued, her voice filled with conviction. "And your Prithvi knows how much you trust him and love him too. Unless you never follow him there when his own life is at risk."

She hugged Radhika tightly, clinging to her like a lifeline. A sense of hope and renewal washed over her, soothing her ravaged heart. Sanyogita's sobs slowed, replaced by sniffles, as Radhika's words kindled a flicker of hope within.

As they broke the hug, Radhika's empathetic gaze met Sanyogita's tear-stained face. Concern etched Radhika's features, her eyes shining with understanding.

"Stop feeling guilty" Radhika urged, her voice infused with conviction. "Any woman in love with her husband would have reacted the same way." Her words were a balm to Sanyogita's battered soul.

Radhika's hands enveloped Sanyogita, her touch was warm and reassuring. "But here's the thing: you didn't give up on him,"

Radhika emphasised. "You chased after the truth, driven by curiosity and bravery, and saved both Prithvi and Anushka ."

A lone tear escaped Sanyogita's eye, tracing a delicate path down her cheek. Radhika's words resonated deep within her, illuminating the depth of Prithvi's unwavering love.

Tears streamed down Sanyogita's face as realization dawned: despite her doubts and accusations, Prithvi's heart remained hers alone. His loyalty and devotion shone like a beacon, guiding her through the darkness.

Sanyogita's eyes, red-rimmed from crying, locked onto Radhika's. A glimmer of self-forgiveness flickered within her. Perhaps, she thought, she wasn't entirely to blame.

Radhika's words continued to flow, gentle yet powerful. "You proved your love and strength, Sanyo. Now, forgive yourself first and move forward. Prithvi needs you, and so does Anu."

Sanyogita's face contorted, emotions swirling. She felt the weight of her guilt slowly lifting, replaced by determination.

A fierce resolve to mend their fractured bond. She wiped away her tears, her voice steady. "Yeah, I'll talk to him. This time, no misunderstandings. No space for doubt."

Radhika nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. "That's my strong Sanyo. Go, talk to him. Clear the air."

Sanyogita took a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation ahead. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but she was ready to face her mistakes and work towards healing.

"I will, Radz. " Her voice trembled, emotions overflowing. "You always know how to put me back on track."."

Radhika's eyes sparkled with tears. "Anytime, Sanyo. That's what best friends are for."

Sanyogita's face contorted, a mix of emotions swirling within her. She felt a surge of determination, a resolve to make things right.

Radhika whispered again with a warm smile "Tell him everything. Don't hold back. He needs to know how much you love and trust him."

With a newfound resolve, Sanyogita walked towards the door, ready to confront her past and reclaim her future.

*************

Sanyogita's determined hand unlocked the bedroom door, anticipation coursing through her veins. She envisioned a fresh start, erasing every misunderstanding, rekindling their love.

But her radiant smile faltered as she stepped inside. The room was empty.

She scoured every nook and corner, her eyes scanning the space. The walk-in closet, the bathroom, the balcony overlooking the serene sea beach – all deserted.

Panic crept in, her heart racing. Where was Prithvi?

Sanyogita rushed out of the room, expanding her search. She traversed the garden, the lush lawn, and the swimming pool area, her footsteps urgent.

Desperation clawed at her as she checked the meeting room downstairs, even her grandmother's room, but there was no sign of Prithvi.

Her shaking fingers dialled his number. The phone rang, but silence greeted her. No one received the call.

Fear gripped her. Had he left?

" Where are you, Prithvi ? Why don't you answer my phone calls?" Sanyogita's heart fell, her horror and guilt growing stronger.

Panic suffocated Sanyogita, her heart racing with every dreadful thought. The silence was deafening, amplifying her fears.

Just then, Shambhavi approached, inquiring about Prithvi. Sanyogita's composure faltered.

"Prithvi's resting, Dadima. And you know na The doctor has advised him to get proper sleep " Sanyogita said hastily, trying to conceal her distress. "He's not feeling well tonight. Asked for dinner in the room."

Shambhavi's brow furrowed with concern. "Is everything alright? Can I—"

Sanyogita interrupted, fabricating a reassuring smile. "No, no, he just needs some solitude. I'll join him soon."

Shambhavi's perceptive gaze lingered, her eyes reflecting concern. She had witnessed Prithvi's turmoil, his agitation simmering beneath the surface.

"I understood beta.. I know my cold scolding this morning only adds to his distress. I'll leave you both alone,"

Shambhavi said softly, her voice a gentle breeze. "Take care of him, Sanyo and also take care of yourself . He needs you now."

Sanyogita nodded, gratitude swelling in her chest. She ensured Shambhavi's dinner was served in her room, accompanied by medication to ease her sleep.

As night descended, Sanyogita's mother, Nilima, drew her into a warm embrace.

"Be with him, beta," she whispered. "Only you can break this spell of aloofness. Spend time with him, talk to him. He needs your love and understanding."

Sanyogita's resolve strengthened. She would bridge the gap between them, heal the wounds.

With a determined heart, Sanyogita returned to her bedroom, a tranquil sanctuary awaiting Prithvi's return.

Sanyogita's resolve to find Prithvi solidified, but anxiety gripped her. Leaving the house could alarm her mother and grandmother, complicating the situation.

She paced, weighing options. The bodyguards!

Sanyogita swiftly summoned them, her tone firm. "Why didn't you inform me about Prithvi's departure?"

The guards exchanged uneasy glances. "We weren't instructed to, ma'am."

Sanyogita's displeasure deepened. "Find him. Now."

But Kumar, Prithvi's loyal bodyguard, had already vanished into the night, driven by a sense of duty and loyalty.

"I'll find him, ma'am," Kumar had whispered to himself, his eyes scanning the darkness.

Sanyogita's anxiety intensified, her heart racing with every passing moment.

******