Beyond Destiny ~ A Saga Of Timeless Love

57 ~ The Solace

"If you find someone you love in your life, then hang onto that love."

Dev

I resolved to discuss everything with Samrat soon because I am aware of what transpired during the shoot. He’s been on a movie tour and hasn’t been home in a while. It’s true that perhaps we’ve spoiled them with too much love and care. However, that doesn’t mean they’re rude or disrespectful. Samrat is simply going through a rebellious phase—just like any other teen.

Viraat, on the other hand, has always been different. My boy is calm and composed, unless someone pushes him too far. He’s been busy ever since winning the World Chess Championship last year, which means he hasn’t been home much either. This absence has affected Samrat more than I anticipated. They’ve always been each other’s anchors, and having to live apart for so long has been tough on both of them. It’s understandable—they’ve never known life without each other’s constant presence.

For me, all three of them are my children. That’s why knowing that Ruhanika helped Samrat recognize his error warmed my heart. I’m not sure how she managed it, but after the shoot, this brat was practically glued to me, gushing about how amazing she is. It was amusing—and oddly satisfying—to see him so smitten by her presence. Somehow, it made me feel reassured that they clicked so well.

I also had a long conversation with Miss Akansha about what had irked me. She understood my concerns, and I’m confident she won’t repeat her mistake of venting her frustrations at coworkers—especially not at my Rooh.

But something still didn’t sit right with me. When I looked at Ruhanika through the CCTV footage, I noticed a strange fear in her. She seemed constantly on edge, as though alarmed by even the slightest sound. It made me uneasy, and I wondered what could have happened to her.

After the temple incident, I told my men to stop shadowing her because I felt like I was invading her privacy. I wanted to give her space, even though the urge to find out what was troubling her never left me. I knew I could get to the bottom of it in minutes if I wanted to. But she had asked me to leave her alone, and I respected her wishes. I couldn’t bring myself to push someone when they explicitly told me not to. Still, I can’t deny how much I care for her—and how deeply I want to win her heart.

There’s something else—something I haven’t been able to make sense of. Lately, I’ve been having vivid dreams. They’re so intense that they feel almost real. The strangest part? They’re always about me and Ruhanika.

In one dream, I proposed to her for marriage. I remember the way she smiled, the way her eyes sparkled, and then… I kissed her. The memory was so vivid that I could still feel the warmth of her lips when I woke up. And no, I’m not some kind of pervert. I have no idea why I’m having these dreams. I’ve never experienced any trauma or personality disorders that could explain this. So, why do they keep happening?

What’s even more peculiar is the setting of these dreams. I see myself dressed as a prince, living in what appears to be the medieval era. Could they be hallucinations? Or am I fantasizing about a future with Ruhanika because I like her so much? Either way, it’s unsettling—and, dare I say, a little corny.

Shaking off these thoughts, I headed to the parking lot. I was driving myself today, needing the solitude to clear my mind. Just as I was pulling out of the company parking lot, my eyes landed on her. Ruhanika was sitting on a bench, tapping her forehead. Something about the way she sat—slumped and drained—set off alarm bells in my head.

I immediately pulled over and got out of the car. As I walked toward her, I saw her slowly stand up, clearly struggling to balance herself. My heart clenched at the sight of her trembling. Before I could reach her, she tried to take a few steps and stumbled in her heels.