I Became His Replaced Bride

Chapter 19

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Hotel Grand Estates, Ahmedabad,

Past

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Komal was now a married woman, though she knew little about her husband despite meeting him several times before their marriage. This union was orchestrated by Raghav’s father, Gopinath Modi, a formidable businessman who had established the vast Modi Empire. Komal recognized that, for Gopinath, their marriage was a strategic asset.

Komal's adopted father, Rituraj Patel, was also a successful businessman who had built his food and goods company from the ground up, ultimately becoming a billionaire. Deeply devoted to her father, Komal couldn't refuse him when he asked her to consider the marriage proposal. Rituraj saw this alliance as a means to fortify both his company’s standing and his only daughter’s future by linking their fortunes with the powerful Modi family.

Komal plastered another sweet smile on her face as she stood beside Raghav on the stage at their reception, accepting yet another gift and posing for a photo. Her mother-in-law, Devki, a striking middle-aged woman with long straight black hair, hazel eyes, fair skin, and a charming smile, took her hand and guided her toward the next guests.

"Komal, meet the Parekh's," Devki said warmly. "They are dear friends of ours and the owners of the renowned Parekh Textile Industries. This is Mr Satish Parekh and his wife, Mrs Ritu Parekh. And... where are your son and daughter-in-law?"

Ritu Parekh frowned. "They were with us just a minute ago. I'm not sure where they went."

Satish Parekh chuckled. "Don't worry, our grandchild must have caused some trouble, and they're likely dealing with it."

Devki's eyes widened. "Grandchild? When did this happen?"

Gopinath appeared beside Devki and interjected, "Neeti is seven months pregnant. They've been married for two years now, so this child is truly a blessing."

Ritu and Satish nodded, their faces beaming with happiness.

Raghav smiled. "Congratulations, Aunty, Uncle. Subhrat mentioned it to me, but I forgot to tell Maa. I was overseas on a business trip and only returned for the wedding."

Komal sensed an edge in Raghav's voice, a subtle indication that he had not been free to choose the timing of his marriage. It was clear to her that Gopinath Modi had orchestrated this union. Not that it mattered to her.

Raghav and Komal bent to touch the feet of the Parekh couple, receiving their blessings. Straightening up, Komal turned to Devki. "Maa, I need to use the restroom," she said softly.

Devki nodded, and Komal quickly left the stage, relieved to step away from the pretense. As she made her way through the crowd, she wondered where her parents were.

On the way back, she spotted her parents conversing with some people. As she approached, she stopped abruptly, her heart pounding in disbelief. Could it really be? Neeti Ben? Bela Ben? And Neeti Ben was pregnant? After all these years, here they were, standing right before her. Bitterness surged through her veins. She had often imagined this moment, thinking of all the questions she would demand answers to—how could they have abandoned her and never reached out? But now, face-to-face with them, her tongue felt like lead.

Anger and resentment churned in her gut. All these years, she had been tormented by their absence, while they seemed to have moved on effortlessly. Neeti Ben, happily married to a millionaire and expecting a child. Bela Ben, proudly flaunting an engagement ring. The sight of them together, as if they had never lost touch, fueled her rage. She loathed them for leaving her behind, for finding happiness while she struggled.