SAANVI'S POV

I groan and sit up on the bed, rubbing my eyes as I reach for my phone.

11:49 PM.

Seriously? Who the hell is knocking at my door this late?

I drag myself out of bed, switch on the lights, and walk toward the door, lazily tying my hair into a loose knot. Yawning, I pull the door open and my brows furrow.

"What are you doing?" I ask, confused.

He's standing there, swaying slightly, eyes red rimmed and glassy.

"Pearl," he whispers and then collapses into me.

"Rudra-what the fuck?!" I stagger back, catching him instinctively. "Get off-"

But then I feel his body is burning hot. I grip his arms, steadying him as I push him back slightly just to get a proper look. His cheeks were flushed, skin damp with sweat. I place my palm on his forehead and feel the heat radiating off him.

"Rudra, you're burning up," I say, my eyes widening. I step back, watching him sway again before he leans into me, wrapping his arms tightly around my waist as he buries his face in my neck. "Are you drunk?"

"Yes," he mumbles against my shoulder.

I let out a breath and slip an arm around his back, guiding him toward the bed. His steps were sluggish, clumsy, and I practically have to hold most of his weight as we reach the edge of the mattress. He drops onto the bed with a groan.

"I'll get the medicine," But before I can take a step, he grabs my wrist. I glance back.

"Don't leave me," he whispers,

"I'm not," I say softly. Still, he tightens his grip.

"Promise me," he says with his half lidded eyes almost pleading. "Promise you won't leave."

He looks fragile more than I've ever seen him. I exhale, gently prying his fingers off and walking over to the drawer. I pull out the medicine kit, grab the required tablets, and return to sit beside him.

"Rudra," He doesn't respond. I place the medicines on the nightstand, then gently tap his cheek. "Rudra, wake up."

His eyes slowly open. I support him as he sits up. He takes the tablet, swallows it, and I raise the glass of water to his lips. He drinks silently. I set the glass aside.

"Why did you drink so much when you clearly can't handle it?"

He tilts his head, gives me a lazy, worn out smile. "You're so beautiful," he whispers, reaching out to cup my face with trembling hands. "I love you so much, Pearl."

"Rudra," I sigh, brushing his hair back. "Why did you drink?"

He rubs his eyes like a child trying to stay awake. "I was hurt."

I frown. "Where? Did you get hurt?" I ask, quickly checking his arms and shoulders. He takes my hand and places it flat against his chest.

"Here," he murmurs. I feel his heart racing beneath my palm.

I look up. "Is it... because of me?"

He shakes his head, eyes barely staying open. Then he lowers his head into my lap, wrapping his arms tightly around my waist.

"You can't hurt me," he murmurs. "People we love... they don't hurt us."

I close my eyes, exhaling sharply. It hurts. His words hurt. Not because they're untrue, but because I know I did. I thread my fingers through his hair slowly. It's soft, slightly damp.

"You can tell me," I whisper. "I know I've hurt you, Rudra. I know." He lifts his head and looks at me.

"What if you think I'm weak?"

I shake my head. "I won't."

"Your words... they hurt, Pearl, especially that day. When you said I was only good for bed. Why would you say that to me?"

My chest caves in, guilt clawing up my throat. Tears spill down my cheeks before I can stop them. He reaches out, wiping them away with the back of his hand. "Don't cry. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up," He tries to sit up straighter but moves sluggishly "Forget I said anything."

I wrap my arms around him tightly, burying my face in his shoulder. My throat tightens as tears slide down my cheeks. "I'm sorry, Rudra," I cried burying my face in his shoulder more. "I'm so sorry for hurting you. I didn't mean it. I swear I didn't."

He hugs me back just as tight and desperate, "I'm scared, Pearl, I don't know what to do. I fucked up... I fucked up the moment I found you. I don't want to lose you. But everyone...everyone is saying to give up on you." I feel the warm sting of his tears falling onto my neck. "They all say you'll never forgive me. That you'll never come back. And I try to act like I'm fine, but it's eating me alive."

My body trembles as I cry silently, my arms still around him. I slowly pull back, looking at his face. His eyes are red, lashes damp. His lips quiver.

"If I could go back," he says, clutching my hand tightly, "I'd stop myself from doing all those things. I think about it every single day. Every time I see you, I wish I'd trusted you back then. We could've been something real, something more than this." His voice breaks. His forehead leans into mine. I shut my eyes as my tears fall freely now.

"I miss it all, Pearl," he whispers. "Our late night talks, our stupid fights. You curled up beside me in your sleep, holding me like I was the safest place in the world. I miss being that for you." My hands fist in the fabric of his shirt. I can feel him trembling beneath my touch.

"I know I sound selfish. But please-don't fall for someone else. Don't love someone else. I'm begging you, Pearl. I won't survive that. Not again." His words hit something deep inside me.

"Rudra," I whisper through my tears, shaking my head, "stop begging. You don't have to beg to be chosen. Or to be loved."

He lets out a short and bitter laugh, "I don't even have the audacity to hope you'd choose me," he says, wiping his face. "I'm not asking you to love me. Just... don't love someone else. I'll take anything. Just don't leave. Just stay, Pearl."

Only if you knew, Rudra,

I reach up and gently wipe his tears, my own still falling. He blinks slowly, breathing hard.

"I'm sorry I came into your life. If I could undo it, I would. I regret meeting you..."

Those words hurt more than I expected. A sharp throb pulses in my chest. He regrets meeting me.

"But I can't leave you now. I can't do it." he continues, swallowing hard, "I'll work on myself so you never have to shrink to fit beside me. I'll become better... not just for you, but because you deserve more than the man I've been. You won't have to settle. I'll change. I'll fix everything. I won't repeat that mistake I swear." His hand reaches up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind my ear.

"Just... don't choose someone else," he whispers. "Please, Pearl," he begs, almost childlike. "Don't fall in love with someone else. Don't give your heart to someone. I won't be able to take it. It hurts more than anything when the person you love with every inch of your soul chooses someone else." He cries again harder this time. His chest rises and falls quickly, "You are my love, and I'm not letting you go as long as I'm breathing." His thumb brushes my cheek, wiping a tear.

"But if one day... I find out you've chosen someone else-" He stops mid sentence and leans in, his lips just near mine too close. His breath trembles against my skin as he whispers, "Don't worry, I won't come between. I won't cause you more hurt. I'll disappear for good... I'll stop breathing."

More tears roll down my face. I close my eyes tightly, unable to meet his gaze. I'm frozen in place, overwhelmed by everything he's pouring out, terrified by the darkness in his words.

This is the last thing I ever imagined hearing from Rudra. He's not the kind of man who lets go. He holds on loudly, stubbornly, even recklessly. But now, hearing him say things like this... somehow, it doesn't give me freedom. It just hurts.

"I knew you were playing with my feelings that day."

My eyes snap to his face, stunned.

"I wasn't sure," he murmurs, "but... something felt off. I watch you closely, Pearl. I always have. And that day... I knew something wasn't right. You don't smile at me like that so easily. You're not the type to ask me out so directly, not like that. You were looking at me... like you were observing, like you were studying my reactions. As if you were picturing how that smile would vanish when you'd finally say, you lied."

I stare at him, completely floored. I don't know what I expected but not this. Not the fact that he saw through me that day and still went along with it.

"I didn't want to believe it. Maybe I just wanted to hold onto that moment. Even if it was a game to you... even if you were going to tear it all down later, I wanted to live in it, just for a while." He leans into me suddenly, collapsing against my chest. I close my eyes, and tears spill down my cheeks.

I wrap my arms around him slowly, rubbing his back in slow, soothing circles. I look down at him his head now resting against my chest, the weight of him both grounding and breaking me.

"Rudra..." A muffled hum escapes him. "Did you drink enough to forget all this by morning?" His body relaxes slightly in my arms. A lazy, tired hum rumbles from his throat.

"I love you, Rudra."

I stare at the wall as I say it. I can't even bring myself to look at him. "I can't hold it in anymore. I love you so much. I'm sorry for what I did. I'm sorry for hurting you. I'm sorry for making you question everything. You mean more to me than I ever let on." I blink away the tears, but they just keep coming.

"Even if we can't be together... even if everything between us stays broken no one will ever take your place in my heart. You are, and always will be, the only man who holds it. All of it. Forever."

I glance down, but he's already asleep peacefully, his wet eyelashes rest gently against skin. I wipe my tears and slowly ease him down, adjusting the pillow under his head. I pull the comforter over him, careful not to wake him. My fingers reach for his cheek, brushing lightly against it.

"You're really beautiful, Rudra," I lean in and place the softest kiss on his forehead.

I know tomorrow we'll go back to our usual distance maybe even another fight. And I do love him... more than I can admit out loud. But love alone isn't enough. Not when the same wounds keep reopening. As much as I want to, I don't think I can go back to him not like this, not with everything unresolved.

He stirs slightly when I lie down beside him gently sliding my arm around his waist, instinctively turning toward me. His arm wraps around my waist, pulling me close, as if even in sleep, he's afraid I'll slip away.

My home, you're my home, Rudra. No matter where life takes us, you always will be.

And fuck, I miss this. I miss this so much it physically hurts. Every night I dream of him holding me like this. Of falling asleep with his arms around me. I look up at his sleeping face.

"Happy anniversary, my love," I press my forehead to his chest.

-----------------

I feel a shift beside me. My eyes flutter open and fell on his face, he was too close. And he looks peaceful. A small smile curls on my lips.

He's actually... adorable.

I reach out instinctively, brushing my fingers across his cheek. His skin was warm, the faintest stubble grazing my touch. My gaze drops to his lips. They're parted slightly. I swallow.

I shouldn't be staring. But I can't look away. My fingertips lightly trail over his bottom lip.

I want to kiss him. So badly. My face dips forward before I can stop myself. I lean in... just a little....

What the fuck?!

I jerk back. He's asleep. He doesn't even know I'm here like this. That would be so wrong. I sit up and take a slow breath. My head falls back for a second.

I hope you actually dare to kiss me today, Rudra... that would be the best anniversary gift ever.

Glancing at clock I quietly slip out of bed, carefully removing his arm draped around me. I pause, watching his sleeping form for a moment. It's late we both need to get up.

But then it hits me. What if he wakes up and realizes we slept in the same bed? What if he knows I let my guard down? No. That wasn't me. That was just... yesterday. A weak moment, that's all. It doesn't mean anything now. I don't care anymore.

I grab the comforter from the bed, drag it to the couch, and toss it there like it always belonged. Then I move to stand beside the bed, clear my throat and fold my arms.

Back to routine.

"Rudra fucking Singhania! Wake the fuck up and get out of my bed!"

He bolts upright, startled. His chest rises and falls fast as he stares at me, disoriented. "What the-why the hell are you screaming?" His voice came groggy, half asleep until his eyes land on the clock.

Panic flashes across his face. "Shit." He scrambles. "Listen, it's not what it looks like, okay? I don't always come here at night-I mean I don't usually sneak into your room and sleep next to you. Something's off, I swear."

I arch an eyebrow. "Kal ki utari nahi hai kya tumhari?" (Are you still hungover from yesterday?)

His face twists in confusion.

"When did I say you always come here to sleep beside me?" I shoot back. "You were drunk last night. You came into my room, passed out. I had to sleep on the couch while you took my bed." I lie, smoothly and confidently.

He breathes out, visibly relieved. "Oh, thank God."

I scoff. "You should be thanking me. Do you know how awful that couch is?"

He shrugs with zero shame. "You didn't even give me a comforter. I must've frozen all night."

"Not my problem."

He smirks, the devil back in his eyes. "Happy marriage anniversary, Pearl."

I roll my eyes. "Whatever. Now get out. I need to change." I move to the other side of the bed, straightening the pillows.

"Toh karo na. Maine kab roka?" (Then do it. When did I stop you?)

"I mind changing in front of anyone."

He grins, "Good for you. I, on the other hand... enjoy private screenings. And to be honest I've undressed you with my eyes more times than I can count, so go ahead, it might help me wake up better than coffee."

My eyes widen. "You're disgusting."

"No, I'm just honest. If I had it my way, you'd never need clothes when I'm around."

This sick fuck.

I grab the nearest pillow and launch it at him. He laughs, dodging it. "Get out!" I yell, reaching for another.

"Okay! Okay! I'm going," he chuckles, hands raised in surrender. But just as he reaches the door, he pauses, smirking over his shoulder. "Just be ready for your gift." And with that, he disappears.

----------------

I finished getting dressed and sat on the bed, absently scrolling through my phone.

Opening Instagram, I caught a glimpse of a new notification, and nearly choked on air.

My eyes widened. "AHHHHH!"

I jumped to my feet with a scream.

A second later, Rudra burst into the room, breathing hard, eyes wide.

"What happened?!"

I spun around, grinning from ear to ear. "Look at this! Oh fuck! look at this!"

I shoved my phone toward his face, practically bouncing. He caught my wrist midair, then glanced at the screen, unimpressed.

"You screamed for this?" he ask, deadpan.

"Of course!" I squeal. "My favorite biker liked my photo. And-and he wished me a happy marriage anniversary. Do you get it? He knows I exist!"

He raised an eyebrow. "You like this biker that much?"

I look down, smiling sheepishly, a blush creeping up my cheeks. "Of course..."

He chuckles, "Don't forget, he wished you for our marriage anniversary."

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever." I waved him off, eyes flicking back to my phone. A huge grin spread across my face. "Don't you think his bike looks like your Luca?"

He clicked his tongue, leaning back slightly. "Maybe. Could be the same brand. But I don't blame him. Good taste tends to spread."

"Hmm..." I nod, scrolling through the biker's post. "Yeah, but I bet he rides better than you."

That gets his attention. His head tilts slightly, "Mm," he hums, stepping a little closer. "Maybe. But if you really want to find out, give me a chance to show you how I ride. Might change your mind."

His smirk curves slow and deliberate, like he knows exactly where my mind just went.

"I promise, I ride... better."

I blink once. Then again. And just like that, my brain decides to derail into all the wrong places. I snap my eyes back to my phone and shake my head trying to reset my thoughts. I really need to control my damn mind.

"But..." I pause, brows knitting as I glance at my phone. "How does he even know it's our anniversary?"

He shrugs casually, "I'm quite famous, sweetheart."

Arrongant fuck.

✿✿✿✿✿

"Ma'am!"

I flinch, my hand flying to my chest as I look up. "What the fuck, Naina?" I snap, breath still catching in my throat. She swallows hard, practically jogging to my desk with her iPad clutched tight.

I shake my head, grabbing the glass of water and pressing it to my lips.

"Ma'am, please just look at this-"

Still sipping, I glance at the screen, then immediately choke.

Water sputters from my mouth as I cough hard, setting the glass down with a thud. "Shit-"

"Ma'am! You okay?" Naina panics, rushing behind me to rub my back.

I wave her off, snatching the iPad from her hands. My eyes scan the headline and then they freeze.

Rudra Singhania Acquires Dubai's Iconic Jewelry House 'Elowen Grace' for $1.2 Billion - Rebrands as Pearlavie & Co. in Wife's Name.

Rudra Singhania buys Dubai's iconic fine jewelry house, formerly known as Elowen Grace, in a $1.2 billion deal. The brand is now rebranded as Pearlavie & Co., registered under the name of his wife, Dr. Saanvi Rudra Singhania.

Rudra, you absolute fucker.

I stare at the article, the words almost blurring. Pearlavie? Pearl....what the actual.... My heart slams against my ribs.

I shoot up from the chair and storm out of my cabin. I stride toward his office, only to find Vedant calmly working on his iPad inside.

"Where the hell is Rudra?" I bark, hands on my hips.

"He had something urgent to take care of."

"Where exactly?"

He lifts his eyes slowly. "That's not my place to say."

I grit my teeth. These two are going to drive me insane.

I spin around to leave but stop at the doorway, then pivot back toward him. "Naina said something about you."

That gets his attention. He pauses mid scroll and raises an eyebrow. "What did she say?"

I tap my chin. "You first. Where did Rudra go?"

He exhales, considering his options. After a short pause, he meets my eyes again. "Hospital."

My brows knit together. "Hospital? Why?"

"I was supposed to tell you where, not why. Now your turn. What did she say?"

I rolled my eyes, "She said she hates you."

He stares blankly. "That's what you stopped for?"

I nod.

-----------------

After a while, Vedant informs me he's back and I walk straight to Rudra's cabin.

"Rudra!" I snap the moment I push the door open, shutting it hard behind me.

He's sitting on his chair, spinning a pen between his fingers like he's been waiting. His gaze lifts slowly, meeting mine.

I march to his desk and stop right in front of it, fists clenched tight. "What the hell were you thinking before pulling that stunt?" I demand, running a hand through my hair, trying to tame the fury trembling through me. "Have you completely lost your mind?"

He watches me for a beat, and leans back lazily in his chair, his thumb brushing along the edge of his pen before clicking it closed. He stands and begins walking around the desk his gaze locked on me, heavy, assessing. When he stops in front of me, he lets his eyes scan me from head to toe, then my face... my throat... the rise and fall of my chest.

"Angry as hell, breathing hard, skin flushed... that tight jaw, those sharp eyes. And the way your fingers just yanked at your hair... God, Pearl," he breathes, tilting his head slightly. "I've been waiting to see this version of you again."

My stomach coils at the way he says it, he's enjoying this, he's fucking enjoying. I realize I've heard these words before. A few weeks ago. Almost the same lines.

He steps closer, "So? Not going to ask me to return the money now, Pearl?" he mocks, folding his arms. "What happened to that lecture?"

"You did it on purpose," I grit my teeth.

He shrugs casually. "Well, I did warn you. Told you to take your money back. You didn't. So I gave you something you can't return."

"You arrogant fuck! You bought an entire brand just to feed your ego?"

His brow lifts. "Ego, huh?" He steps closer. I step back. But he keeps coming until I hit the wall. He plants one hand against the wall beside my head then the other. His arms cage me in.

"Remember the beginning?" he asked close to my ear. "You refused to treat me. Acted like I was just another arrogant bastard who didn't deserve your time." He tilts his head slightly. I could feel his breath fan against my cheek. His fingers brush against my jaw, soft... too soft. Suddenly, he wrapped his fingers around my throat and tilt my face up to his, I gasp.

"I took the majority stake the very next day just to make you stand next to me and treat me. Because nothing feeds my ego more than watching your defiance crumble right in front of me." His fingers slid to the back of my neck before he suddenly gripped the nape and yanked me closer. Another startled gasp escaped my lips as my body jerked into his, chest pressed against his frame, his scent flooding my senses.

"Some things never change, Pearl. Me and my ego. You and your defiance." He looked down at me with those dark hooded eyes. "You thought I'd let you win? I'm Rudra Singhania, sweetheart, known as the egoistic, dominating bastard across the entire business world. I may love you more than anything in this damn world... but watching you like this, pinned, powerless, burning with that fire in your eyes is my personal heaven."

He dipped his head, "To satisfy that... I'll buy anything. I'll burn everything. I'll make you learn."

He pulls back just enough to meet my eyes fully. "So yes, I bought that brand, Pearl. And I did it for you. So you'd learn something." He pauses as his eyes darken as they hold mine. "That no matter how much you try to push me away... my wife doesn't get to pay. And if she tries... I'll give her back so much more she won't dare to offer again."

"Fuck you." I glare.

He tilts his head, and smiles wickedly. "Thought you'd never ask. Wall or desk, sweetheart?"

"Sick bastard." I scoff.

He chuckles, fingers gliding up to cradle the base of my jaw again. "Lesson learned, Mrs. Singhania?"

"Shut your-ouch!" My sentence dies in a hiss as he suddenly yanks me forward, his grip tightening around my throat again.

"I asked you something." His voice is no longer playful, it's deep, commanding, coated in dominance. His jaw clenched and no trace of a smirk this time.

I swallow, pulse thudding wildly beneath his hand. "Y-Yes."

His grip softens. A small smile lifts the corner of his mouth. He lets go, tapping my cheek gently like a reward. "That's my wife."

He steps back, and I finally exhale the breath I didn't realize I was holding.

"By the way what about my gift?"

I fold my arms. "I didn't get my favorite gift either."

He raises a brow. "Name it. Whatever it is, I'll give it."

"Divorce,"

He lets out a long sigh, then shrugs. "Yeah... sorry. Budget doesn't allow that."

The audacity of this man. He literally bought a billion dollar company but can't afford a divorce? Unbelievable.

Before I can throw another word at him, he tilts his head. "I haven't forgotten my dare, by the way." His gaze drops to my lips. "The one where I have to kiss you?"

I shouldn't want it. I really shouldn't. But the worse, some part of me actually wants him to finish it.

He leans in slightly, his face just inches from mine. My breath catches and instinctively, I close my eyes, bracing myself.

Waiting.

Wanting.

And then something soft brushes against my lips. But not his lips, I frown and open my eyes. His thumb pressed lightly to my lower lip. Then he brings it to his own and taps it against his mouth. "There, I got my kiss."

I blink, staring at him.

This fucking wanna be gentleman.

I don't know whether to scream or throw something. Couldn't he just kiss me like a normal reckless idiot?

One minute he's all bossy and controlling like he invented dominance, and the next he's pulling some smooth gentleman act like he's in a damn romance novel.

My phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out and glance at the screen.

Shaurya.

A small, unconscious smile creeps onto my lips.

"The fucker again,"

I glance up, his eyes are glued to my phone, jaw clenched tight.

I blink. "You seriously can't call him that."

"I've never hated anyone the way I hate your fucking best friend."

I shake my head, exasperated, turning away to answer the call. But just as I lift the phone to my ear, I pause. Something in me stalls. I turn back.

He looks at me, then at the phone in my hand. "Your precious best friend's calling. Don't let him wait," he says sarcastically.

Instead, I press decline and slip the phone back into my pocket.

His expression shifts for a brief second surprise, maybe. "Why'd you cut the call?"

"Why were you at the hospital?"

He stiffens and his throat moves as he swallows. "Who told you?"

"That's not important. Why did you go?"

He shrugs, "Because I wanted to."

"Are you insane?" I scoff.

He grabs my wrist before I can finish. "Come with me."

"Where?"

"I had something planned," he says, already pulling me forward. "Another gift. Thought I'd surprise you later but...I've never been a patient man."

--------------------

He leads me inside the café, it's the same café I always visit on Sundays, the one with the attached library where I escape into books and coffee. But today, it's... transformed.

My gaze sweeps across the space. The usual buzz is gone it's empty. Quiet. Peaceful. And delicately beautiful. White roses trail across the windowsills, soft lights hang overhead. He walks me toward the library corner. The layout has changed. It's been expanded and the scent of books and wood polish hits me as I enter. The lighting warmer, the shelves now carved wood instead of steel, and a cozy reading nook tucked into the corner with a deep emerald armchair and low lamp. A tiny engraved plaque sits above the entry: Pearl's Corner.

He stops in front of me. "Here's your other gift."

I blink, frowning. "Rudra, I'm not exactly in the mood to read right now."

He chuckles softly. "It's not about now. You can come here anytime. Read anything. Keep any book you like. This is yours now, your own space."

I let out a disbelieving laugh. "Why? You own the books now too?"

"No." He smiles. "I own this whole place."

The smile drops from my face. "You what?"

"I bought the café. And the library."

I stare at him. "You didn't."

He shrugs. "I did."

"What the fuck, Rudra?!" I choke out, blinking rapidly.

"I know how much you love it here. It's your comfort place. So I figured... if there's one thing that should be yours forever, it's this. Once this mess calms down, you can come here anytime." He leans in slightly and pinches my cheek, "Though... I'm still tagging along."

I close my eyes in pure frustration. I don't know what to do.

"And since you once called me a beast," he adds, grinning, "It's only fair I gift my beauty a library."

He's completely lost it.

How am I ever supposed to pay him back? Even if I sold everything I owned, hell, even if I sold myself it still wouldn't be enough. Not even close.

I stare at him, still smiling like he's done something sweet. Why is he so obscenely rich?

This is humiliating.

RUDRA'S POV

"Come in," I say, not looking up from my laptop as I hear a knock.

A few seconds pass and suddenly I hiss in pain as someone twists my ear.

"What the-! Who the fuck-"

I stop mid sentence, eyes widening. "Mom?!"

She stands beside me, glaring. "What kind of language is that, beta?" she says with a sarcastic smile, still twisting my ear.

I glance toward the door and see Vedant standing there like he's watching a show.

"Mom, can you please-uh-ease up a little? I have a reputation to maintain here,"

"Reputation?" she repeats and smacks the back of my head lightly.

Vedant chimes in with a shrug, "Mr. Singhania, I've seen you get thrown out of the house and yelled at like a street brat. It's nothing new."

I shoot him a glare. This fucker's really asking to get fired.

"Vedant's got some sass," Mom laughs, then turns back to me. "And you-"

She suddenly stops. Her playful expression fades as her eyes scan my face. Her hand leaves my ear and moves gently to cup my cheeks. "Rudra... what's wrong?" she asks softly. "Your eyes... they're red. You look so weak. Are you not well?" She checks my forehead with the back of her hand, then my cheek. Her touch is so gentle it makes my throat tighten.

"I'm fine, Mom,"

"You're not. Don't lie to me." She turns to Vedant. "Clear his schedule. I'm taking him to the hospital. Now."

Vedant looks at me. I sigh and shake my head. "You may leave," I say and he gives me a brief nod before walking out.

"Let's go," Mom says firmly.

"I said I'm fine," I insist.

"Your face says otherwise. You've only been away from home for some weeks and look at you. Tired, pale, eyes sunken. You think I won't notice?" She strokes my hair gently. I get up and guide her to the couch, sitting beside her.

"Mom, it's just work. A bit of overload, nothing serious."

"Then leave it. Take a break. Your life matters more than a few deals. And what the hell is Abhiraj doing? Why's he dumping everything on you? I swear I'll go and yell at him myself-"

"Dad is doing his part, Mom,"

She stares at me, vulnerable. Then she takes my hands in hers and swallows. "You're... depressed, aren't you?"

I shake my head. "No. I'm not."

"Please, Rudra. Let's go back to therapy. Just once. Please listen to me this time." Her grip tightens.

I take a deep breath. "I'm telling you, I'm fine. I don't need therapy right now. Saanvi's the one who needs support."

A tear rolls down her cheek. "I know. But you're breaking too, beta."

She lowers her eyes and presses her lips together, trying to keep it together. "I'm sorry, Rudra. I'm so sorry for being harsh with you. I was angry, yes... but I never stopped being your mother." Her voice cracks. "When I saw Saanvi in that hospital bed, I blamed myself. I thought, because of my son, someone else's daughter was dying." She sniffles, trying to hold it in, but the tears fall freely now. "But even during those days, I wanted nothing more than to hold you. To check on you. You've always shared everything with me, and yet I left you alone. I hated myself for that." Her shoulders shake and I immediately pull her into a hug, wrapping my arms tightly around her.

"Don't blame yourself, Mom," I whisper. "It's not your fault."

She pulls back slightly, eyes still watery. "I never meant to make you feel like I chose her over you. I love Saanvi, yes, but you... you're my son. My little baby. Nothing changes that."

"I know," I say, holding her hands again. "And honestly... I was glad you and Dad were there for her. She needed it. She deserved it. And after what I did... how could I ever feel insecure about that?"

"I missed you,"

"I missed you too. So much," I say, and then gently rest my head on her lap. She chuckles through her tears and runs her fingers through my hair like she used to. I close my eyes, it still calms me, just like it always did. We stay like that for a while.

"Come back, Rudra," she murmurs. "With Saanvi. Please. You're not okay, and I can see it. I know I lost that space where you used to tell me everything... but I still know you, beta. Something's not right. You're suffering alone. Please come back."

I sit up and look at her. "I can't, Mom. If I do... you and Dad could be in danger too. There's too much happening. But don't worry your son's strong enough to handle it."

She cups my cheek. "You don't have to be strong, Rudra. Neither I nor your father ever asked that of you. It doesn't matter if you're strong or not. All we care about is you. So stop pretending like strength means you don't feel anything. We'll still love you. We always have."

I blink, holding her gaze. She's right. She and Dad have always told me it's not a weakness to break down, it takes real courage to show emotion. Not everyone has that kind of strength.

I give her a small nod. She exhales and gestures toward the paper bag on the table. "I made some cookies."

I grin, opening the bag. There's a box inside with a small sticker on it that reads For My Rudra with a little smiley face drawn beside it. Classic Mom. I open it and take a bite.

"It's soo tasty." I say with a mouthful, handing it to her. She takes a bite from the side, and I immediately take it back and finish the rest.

She groans. "Janwaron jaise khate ho tum. Kab sudhroge, Rudra?" (You eat like an animal. When will you ever learn, Rudra?)

"Never," I shrug. "What about your husband?"

She massages her temple. "He's with Saanvi. I just hope they don't kill each other. I really get nervous when those two are in the same room."

I chuckle. "And you? Didn't meet her?"

She looks at me. "I just wanted to see you first. I was missing you too much."

I smile, leaning in to kiss her forehead. She pulls me into another hug, this time even tighter. "Mera baccha," she whispers, rubbing my back.

"Shut up, OG!"

"How dare you?! You stupid nurse!"

The hug between me and Mom breaks instantly. Both our heads snap toward the door.

Dad and pearl walk into the cabin, well, storming in, more like it glaring at each other like sworn enemies forced to breathe the same air.

Mom sighs beside me, already bracing herself. "Knew it,"

"Maa," she groans, striding straight toward her like a kid reporting injustice, "Maa, why did you send him? He doesn't know how to talk without fighting."

Mom opens her arms with a soft smile, and Pearl walks right into the hug and wraps her arms tightly around her, her face pressing against her shoulder.

I walk toward Dad. He shakes his head slightly as he watches the two women. "How do you even survive being around her all day?" he says, not breaking eye contact with them.

I let out a low chuckle. "The same way I survived being around you all those years."

He raises an eyebrow. "No wonder I've got blood pressure issues. You two are the same."

He holds out his arms, and I step forward into the hug. He pats my back softly, then pulls away and looks at me. "How are you doing?"

"Good,"

He hesitates, "Rudra... is there anything you want to talk to me about?"

I shake my head. "No, Dad."

He nods slowly not convinced placing a warm hand on my shoulder. "If there ever is, you know you can. Always."

Assuring as always.

"I know," I smile, meeting his eyes.

✿✿✿✿✿

Next day : At NVC Base

The heavy door swings open with a low groan as I step into the briefing room. Around the long oak conference table sit the familiar faces, my father, Lorenzo and Nishkarsh Uncle, and Silas.

I take my place without a word. My eyes scan the others. Kabir, Avyaan, and to my surprise Abhimaan.

I smirk, slouching in the chair. "Well, look who decided to show up. Crown Prince himself."

He lifts an eyebrow, "You're getting more than a royal visit, Volkaris."

I glance at Silas. "What, you replacing me now?"

Silas lets out a dry chuckle. "You're irreplaceable. Unfortunately."

Kabir interjects, "Eighteen years ago, Lorenzo uncle and Silas pulled a child out of a massacre site while tracking Alfred."

I sigh. "I know this. They rescued a girl. What about it?"

Kabir leans forward. "That girl was Saanvi."

My smirk fades. I stare at him. "What?"

"She's the one. Uncle saw her childhood photo. No doubt."

I look at Lorenzo uncle, he nods slowly. "She's the same girl we found."

My gaze darts to Dad. He exhales heavily, confirming it.

"We need to talk to her," Nishkarsh uncle says firmly. "She might have seen something back then. Anything that helps us reopen the Alfred trail."

I scowl. "She was a child. Why the hell would she be investigated?"

Silas speaks firmly. "Because she was there. If she saw something that connects to Alfred, even the smallest detail could matter."

Dad adds, "Just ask her. Don't force it. If she remembers, she'll tell you."

I clench my jaw and nod slowly. "I'll ask her. But if she says no, it ends there."

They glance at each other again but don't push. I stare down at the polished wood in front of me.

Eighteen years ago. That's the same year, her mother died... the same day Alfred slipped through their hands.

I stand and walk toward Lorenzo uncle. "You said you called the ambulance that night."

He looks up, blue eyes cold and certain. "She's lying, I saw her. She was there. With her dog. Her mother was covered in blood, barely breathing. That woman didn't die in a car crash. I called the ambulance myself. Saanvi and her mother got into it together. So whatever story she's telling she's leaving things out."

I knew it. My gut had been screaming for months. She and the Malhotras have been hiding something.

Just then, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out and answer. "Yes?"

"Sir-Ma'am is missing!"

I freeze, my blood runs cold.. "What do you mean she's missing?"

Storming toward the weapons room, I clamp the phone between my ear and shoulder. My fingers move, grabbing my shoulder holster, securing it tightly across my chest. I reach for my Glock, check the mag and slide, then lock it into the holster with a practiced snap.

"We checked the cameras she was forced into a black SUV. They drove straight past Gate 3. Security detail was bypassed. Signal dropped shortly after."

A harsh curse leaves my lips and I hung up.

"What happened?"

I glance over and saw Abhimaan standing at the doorway.

"Saanvi is missing." I say, turning to grab my backup weapon from the shelf.

Dad and others walks in just as I grab a combat knife and sheath it into my boot.

"How the hell are we going to find her?" he ask tensely.

"I had a tracker installed in her watch."

He lets out a shaky breath and nods. Kabir steps in right after, already unlocking the encrypted feed from his tablet.

"I've got access too," Kabir says, scrolling fast. "Give me thirty seconds and I'll have the location." He slings his own holster on, chambering his pistol with a quick click.

He glances at Abhimaan and Avyaan "Abhimaan, Avyaan, gear up. She's in danger."

Abhimaan pulls his matte black SIG from his locker and loads it silently. Avyaan sighs.

Kabir rolls his eyes. "Save the misogyny for later, Avyaan. Let's go."

Avyaan strap on black hand wraps, a combat knife tucked into his belt.

Silas steps forward, "Careful. Make sure she's safe."

I nod once and headed for the exit.

"What's the plan?" Abhimaan asks beside me as we descend the stairs.

"Plug in your AirPods. I'll guide you on the way," Avyaan answers from ahead.

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