"Rudraksh Oberoi: A Tale of Power, Redemption, and Fatherhood"

Chapter -26

The day began like any other at school, but for Roohi, it would become a significant turning point. She was busy with her friends, enjoying the morning break, when Megan's older brothers, Max and Mike, approached. The two boys were known for their intimidating presence and their ability to make trouble.

Max, the older of the two, sneered at Roohi. "Look at you, thinking you're so special," he taunted. "Your mother's gone, and you're just bad blood. No one wants you here."

Mike joined in, his voice dripping with contempt. "Yeah, you think you're better than us? Just because your dad's got money doesn't mean you're anything special. You're just a reminder of your mother's mistakes."

Roohi was taken aback by the harsh words, her eyes filling with tears. She had never experienced such cruelty before, and the term "bad blood" was especially confusing to her. She felt a deep sense of sadness, not fully understanding the venom behind the words but feeling the sting all the same.

The incident in the schoolyard quickly escalated. Aarav Raichand, having witnessed the bullying, did not hesitate to step in. His face set in determination, he intervened with a firm stance.

"Hey, leave her alone!" Aarav shouted, his voice carrying authority and urgency. "You don't get to talk to her like that."

Max, taken aback by Aarav's sudden intervention, pushed him behind the lockers. "Stay out of this, Raichand," he growled. He reached for Roohi, intending to continue his bullying.

But Aarav was not about to back down. He pushed Max away, landing a punch that caused Max to stumble. He then stood protectively in front of Roohi. "Bullying a little girl? Really?" You call your men? he demanded, his voice filled with both anger and Fury.

The commotion drew the attention of nearby teachers, who quickly intervened. Soon, everyone was gathered around the principal's office. Roohi, visibly shaken and sobbing, was comforted by her friends and a sympathetic teacher. Max and Mike were escorted to the office, their behavior having drawn severe consequences. Their parents were called in to discuss the incident.

When the parents arrived, the atmosphere in the principal's office was thick with tension. Rudraksh, having been informed of the situation, was present, his anger evident in his rigid posture and stern expression. He locked eyes with Abhay Raichand, who entered with a similarly stern demeanor.

The two men exchanged curt nods, their past interactions and ongoing tensions palpable. This meeting was charged with unspoken conflict, but both understood the gravity of the situation.

Rudraksh, driven by his anger over the bullying of his daughter, was adamant about the consequences. "I want these boys expelled," he stated firmly. "Their actions are unacceptable, and their parents need to be held accountable."

Abhay, while respecting Rudraksh's stance, maintained a measured tone. "I expect this matter to be handled with the seriousness it deserves," he said. "My son, Aarav, intervened to protect Roohi, and I appreciate that."

Rudraksh glanced at Aarav, who has the same expression as his father. "Thank you, Aarav," he said sincerely.

Roohi, still a bit teary but comforted by her father's words, turned to Aarav. "Thank you for helping me," she said softly.

Aarav, slightly blushing, nodded. "You're welcome."

Abhay, observing his son's reaction, felt a surge of pride. Despite the strained relationship between him and Rudraksh, he appreciated Aarav's bravery and kindness.

As the discussion continued, the principal laid out the measures to be taken. Max and Mike would face disciplinary actions, and their behavior would be addressed with their parents. The seriousness of the situation was made clear, with the intent to prevent any further incidents.

Rudraksh and Abhay, having exchanged necessary pleasantries, left the office. The tension between them was still evident, but for now, their focus was on ensuring that the situation was handled appropriately.

Back at home, Rudraksh reassured Roohi, making sure she felt safe and supported.

Back at home, Rudraksh noticed that Roohi had been unusually silent since the incident at school. The lively chatter and laughter that usually characterized his daughter were absent. Concerned, he approached her and gently asked, "Roohi, why are you so quiet today? Are you not going to tell papa about new things you have learned at school or new games you have played with friends?

Roohi looked up at him with eyes full of confusion and sadness. In a small, hesitant voice, she asked, "Papa, what does 'bad blood' mean? And why did the boys call me that?"

Rudraksh's eyes darkened with anger at the thought of what had happened to his daughter. He took a deep breath to steady himself, knowing that he needed to stay calm for her sake. He sat down beside Roohi, pulling her into his arms. The warmth of his embrace was meant to reassure her and offer comfort.

"Roohi," he began softly, "'Bad blood' is a hurtful term that people use to try and make someone feel bad about themselves. But I want you to know something very important." He paused, looking into her eyes with a mixture of love and determination. "You are the living proof of the love that your mother, Roshni, and I had for each other. You are incredibly precious to me, and to her."

He gently stroked her hair, trying to convey all the love he felt for her. "No matter what anyone says, or how they try to make you feel, always remember this: you are priceless to me. No one can ever change that. You are not defined by the mean words of others. You are defined by the love that surrounds you and the person you are inside."

Roohi, comforted by her father's words and embrace, looked up at him with a small, hopeful smile. "Thank you, Papa," she said softly.

Rudraksh nodded, a determined look in his eyes."You're welcome, sweetheart. And remember, no matter what happens, I am always here for you.

They stayed in that embrace for a moment longer, the bond between father and daughter strengthening. Despite the challenges they faced, Rudraksh was resolute in his commitment to protecting Roohi and ensuring that she always felt loved and valued.

As Roohi began to relax, Rudraksh knew that while the road ahead might still be difficult, they would face it together-with love, strength, and an unbreakable bond.