The Devil's Queen (UNDER MAJOR EDITING)

Chapter 14 -Into the Abyss

Nikhil and Aryan were engrossed in their analysis of "The literary cafe" employees who had suddenly become the focal point of their investigation, driven primarily by the enigmatic woman who had captivated their interest. They were determined to uncover any potential connections between her and Ryan.

The documents, profiles, and photographs were meticulously spread across Nikhil's opulent office, all contributing to the detailed portrait of the woman who had not only captured Nikhil's curiosity but could also pose a potential threat to his well-established criminal empire.

As they sifted through the extensive paperwork Aryan had provided, one particular file caught Nikhil's attention once again, reigniting the intrigue he had felt earlier in the morning. It bore the name "Naina Kapoor."

As they dug deeper into Naina's past, Aryan's discovery about her troubled history in Bangalore provided a crucial piece of the puzzle. The connection between Naina and Ryan was becoming increasingly evident. Nikhil couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this story than met the eye.

He handed Naina's file over to Aryan, because he felt something strange in his stomach every time, he saw her picture.

Aryan: (excited) "Nikhil, I've found something. Naina used to live in Bangalore, and it appears that Ryan has a history there too."

Nikhil: "Tell me more. What's the connection?"

Aryan: "Well, according to our sources, Ryan is known in Bangalore as a loan shark. He's been involved in some shady dealings there for years. It appears he had been keeping a close watch on Naina for an extended period— more precisely for over two years, he even attempted to kidnap her three months ago, which prompted her, her sister, and their friend to flee to Pune."

Nikhil's expression hardened as he processed the implications. The enigmatic woman he had seen dancing in the rain had been living a life filled with hardship and danger even before she arrived in Pune.

Nikhil: (determined) "Aryan, this is it. We've found the connection we were looking for. Ryan's history with Naina explains his interest in her. But why would he risk everything to follow her here?"

Aryan: (thoughtful) "That's the million-dollar question, Nikhil. We need to find out what Ryan's game is and how it's linked to our information leak."

Their investigation continued with newfound intensity. They scrutinized every aspect of Naina's life, uncovering her resilience, her dreams, and her determination to protect her sister, Maya. Nikhil couldn't help but be drawn to her strength and her ability to find hope amidst the darkness.However, the more they delved into Naina's story, the stronger Nikhil's obsession with her grew. She was no longer just a piece of the puzzle; she had become a focal point of his thoughts, an enigma that demanded unraveling.

Nikhil: (muttering to himself) "There's more to her than meets the eye. I need to meet her, understand her. It might just be the key to unraveling everything."

Aryan: (concerned) "Nikhil, be careful. We don't know what we're getting into with this girl."

Nikhil: (determined) "I'll proceed with caution, Aryan. But I can't ignore this feeling any longer. It's something that even I can't understand."

Aryan: (cheerfully and teasingly) Well, it seems you wanted her details not just to safeguard our empire but because you've taken quite a liking to her! I'm delighted I could assist you brother. Here, take a look at her file yourself to get know her and her life a bit better.

Name: Naina Kapoor
Age: 17 years
Sibling: Maya Kapoor

Works at: The Literary Latte, Pune

Previously lived in: Bangalore
Hometown: Lucknow and Delhi
Aspires to get into: Flame University, Pune

Dreams of becoming: A Doctor and a clinical psychologist

Best Friend: Aanya Singh
Parents: Natasha and Rajesh Kapoor (deceased)