♡CHAPTER 1♡

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My eyelids shut gently, embracing the serene breeze that swept through my thoughts. A tranquil atmosphere enveloped me, providing the perfect peace one seeks during a holiday.

I opened my eyes, inhaling deeply the invigorating scent of the beach. It filled my lungs like a refreshing air freshener, tickling my nostrils with its salty sweetness.

Here I was, at Lanakai Beach in Hawaii. The pristine white sand, the azure waters, and the cool shade from swaying palm trees all combined to create a breathtaking paradise.

Beside me sat an equally stunning sight - Adhrit Ray Singhania.

Since our first encounter, I have been fascinated by his flawless appearance and incredible intellect.
It is an honour to be his wife, and as I gazed at his strikingly handsome face, a smile crept across my features.

"Why are you constantly gazing?" he mentioned, his eyes shut while we lounged under the palm tree's shade.

"Is there an issue with me doing so?" I inquired, receiving only a smile in response.

I feigned offence and began to rise when he caught my wrist, preventing me from leaving.

"Your temper always lingers so close to the surface, doesn't it?" he joked, poking my nose and flashing a playful grin.

Despite my efforts, I couldn't help but smile, turning away from him.

"Come on, I'll treat you to your favourite acai bowl," he insisted, pulling me with him.
I watched as he put on his sunglasses once more, leading the way.

Smiling at his back and feeling his hand holding mine, I felt a sense of happiness and contentment. Everything felt just right.

Despite the challenges and traumas I faced, I refused to let them define me.

I found strength in my resilience and determination to not let the past dictate my future.

As I confronted my demons and faced my fears, I started to rebuild my life brick by brick. I found solace in my passions, connected with supportive friends, and rediscovered my inner strength.

Through perseverance and determination, I emerged from the darkness into a place of peace and contentment.

I no longer allow the shadows of my past to overshadow my present happiness. I am a survivor, a warrior, and a living testament to the power of resilience and courage.

I have learned that true joy comes not from avoiding challenges, but from confronting them head-on and emerging stronger on the other side. And though the journey was long and arduous, the destination was well worth the struggle.

I am grateful for the lessons learned, the growth experienced, and the peace that now fills my heart.

I still shudder when I remember when Uncle Alok molested me when I was just five.

But when he left for another country, I was happy again until he came back and everything changed.

.
.
.

Uncle Alok, exuding his usual cunning aura, is casually positioned right in front of me, flashing that mischievous grin across his face.

His sleek, combed-back hair coupled with his sophisticated French moustache, only adds to his sly demeanour.

His eyes effortlessly scanning every woman in the room, fills me with a sense of repulsion like nothing else.
He chose to make his grand entrance just as my grandfather embarked on a business trip.
Though fear gripped my heart, I could do nothing but gather the courage to confront him.

"How have you been, my dear nephew?" he inquired, casually tucking his hands into his pockets in an attempt to appear nonchalant.

My arms folded, I retorted, "You dare to ask me that? After subjecting me to a lifetime of trauma?"

Despite a slight moment of hesitation on his part, he swiftly composed himself once more.

"You've grown up, huh? Speaking ill of your uncle now? Kids change, don't they?" he asked, getting uncomfortably close.

"I'd rather you keep your distance. I don't like unwanted touch," I replied, creating space between us.

He gave me a disapproving look, the same look he used to give before hitting me.

"You're still as stubborn as ever, aren't you?" he remarked, moving closer as I stepped back.

"Since you have no intention of listening, I'm going to my room," I declared, walking away and heading upstairs.

Later, I found out that Uncle Alok left without a word, and my grandfather returned.

I happily embraced him as we sat down for dinner.

"I heard Alok paid a visit," my grandfather mentioned.

"Yes, he did. But forget about that, tell me about your meeting," I redirected the conversation.

"It was alright. I wasn't keen on making a deal with them anyway. I only went because they were insistent," he explained.

"It could have been beneficial for them, but it all depended on whether they were willing to share fairly or not," I commented, to which he agreed.

"In the end, they didn't succeed," he concluded, then turned to me. "I've been pondering something for a while now," he added.

"What is it?" I questioned.

"Do you happen to have a boyfriend or someone you're interested in?" He inquired, catching me off guard. I never imagined he'd ask me that.

"Why are you asking, Grandpa?" I responded.

"No, I just see how put-together you are in life, I want you to have someone to share your worries with," he explained, looking down.

"Grandpa, I have you, that's enough for now," I assured him.

"My princess, there are things you can't discuss with me, that's why I want you to confide in someone," he expressed sadly, eyes meeting mine.

"Grandpa, when the time is right, I'll meet the right person," I promised.

"So, you're not dating anyone?" He prodded, and I shook my head.

"I often find myself pondering about what my future husband might be up to; I'm truly invested in him. Really!" I exclaimed, bursting into laughter.

I completely understand his apprehensions, but ever since my parents abandoned me, he's the only family I have left.
The love I lost from my parents, I found in abundance in my grandfather, even more than I could have imagined.
He not only loved and adored me, but he also imparted invaluable lessons to me, for which I will be forever grateful.

Now, it's my turn to take care of him, just as he took care of me all his life. I don't want someone who will enter into a relationship with me solely because of my grandfather's name and reputation, only to spoil the bond between me and him.

That's why I prefer not to rush things, opting to keep it simple for as long as possible.

"Did you know that the Malhotra family was considering you as a potential match for their son?" he mentioned.

I'll always remember growing up alongside Yuvraj Malhotra, the son of the Malhotra family.

We were good friends, but it never crossed my mind to think of him romantically. He's always been a great friend to me.

"I consider him a friend," I told him, and he responded with a smile.

"I know. I've made it clear that only your opinion matters, not mine," he admitted.

"You're the best grandpa!" I exclaimed happily as I hugged him tightly.

Even though Yuvraj has been a part of my life since childhood, I have no desire to be in a romantic relationship with him. Right now, I prefer to focus on my studies and get notic of any plans that Uncle Alok might have in the works.

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