2. THE DEAL

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Atharv entered his impressive house, hands stained and mind burdened

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Atharv entered his impressive house, hands stained and mind burdened. His mother, a radiant smile on her face, sat on the sofa, surrounded by photographs of potential brides.

She beamed, "Beta, take a look. Is there someone who catches your eye? I'll gladly arrange a blind date for you."

With a wearied sigh, Atharv retorted,

"Maa, how many times do I have to repeat myself? I don't want to get married!" He trudged towards the staircase, exhausted.

Witnessing the scene, Digvijay, about to leave for a meeting, quietly observed and left with his secretary.

ELSEWHERE,

Akshara's was driving back when her phone rang, the caller ID displaying her grandfather's number. He had always been distant, prioritizing his mafia life over everyone. Her father was consumed by alcohol, still tormented by the loss of her mother 26 years ago, her death during childbirth never far from his thoughts, a pain that only heightened his resentment towards Akshara.

Troubled thoughts haunted her mind, wondering how different things might have been if her mother had lived. Shaking off those musings, she picked up the call.
"Be at the Xrex Club immediately,"

her grandfather barked, his tone cold and commanding and hanging up on the call without a moment's notice. Despite the lack of emotional connection within her family, there was one exception – her brother Akshat, the only person who genuinely cared for her.
To the rest of her family, Akshara was merely a competent lawyer, reliable and efficient. With a deep sigh, she started driving to the Xrex Club, her grandfather's orders leaving her with no choice but to obey.

Being familiar with the inner workings of the mafia, expected another ordinary visit to the Xrex Club for a business meeting. As she entered the club, the overpowering scent of alcohol and sweat filled her senses, accompanied by the blaring music and drunken patrons dancing under the dim lights. Despite the chaotic surroundings, she navigated her way through the club, clad in her professional attire, having come straight from the courthouse. She approached the room where the usual dealings took place, remaining composed and business-oriented.

She stepped into the room, met with her grandfather's unsmiling, business-focused face, a chilling sight she had grown accustomed to over the years. She was well aware that her grandfather's affection was non-existent, and her safety was of no concern to him. Consequently, she always approached these meetings with meticulous caution.

Walking to the table, Akshara encountered a man around her grandfather's age, but with sharper, more masculine features, exuding an aura of authority. The air of power and confidence surrounded him, suggesting he had wielded significant influence in his younger days. As the two parties exchanged pleasantries, Akshara diligently observed the scene before her, taking in every detail without uttering a word.

"As we are aware, I lack the necessary resources to satisfy the deal and fulfill the Russians' demands,"
Praveen explains.

"Not to mention, you have lost your grasp on your empire, and are defenseless against the Italian mafia. Given our precarious positions, wouldn't it make sense for us to support one another?" Praveen proposes.

Digvijay sneers in response, "You expect me to forget your act of betrayal and shake hands with you? You leaked crucial information prior to every mission for your own gain, all because you coveted the mafia for yourself!" "I don't trust easily. Give me something precious, something you hold dear, something that gives me a reason to trust you," Digvijay demands.

Praveen considers his response, "I believe you have two grandsons of marriageable age, correct?"

He continues, "I also have a granddaughter who I've kept hidden from public eyes, but she holds a significant place in my heart."

Akshara, silently observing the conversation, was about to protest but is immediately silenced by her grandfather's stern,

"I dare you to speak" glare.

Akshara, mentally scoffing at her grandfather's words, saw this coming. Suddenly, Digvijay's voice pierces through her thoughts, "And if I'm not mistaken, the lady lawyer standing behind you is your granddaughter, given how much she resembles your son."
Praveen smirks and confirms, "You have a keen eye. Yes, she is indeed my granddaughter, and an immensely valuable asset to our mafia. She holds a special place in my heart, my beloved 'apple,' so to speak."

Despite Digvijay's skepticism toward Praveen's "apple of my eye" portrayal,

he nods in agreement, "Very well, let's seal the deal. Your granddaughter will marry my eldest grandson, Atharv. In return, you will provide us with man power, while my organization delivers weapons and narcotics."

Praveen instructs, "Let's finalize the date and venue for the family meeting. I'll take care of the arrangements."
He discreetly manages to contain his excitement. Digvijay nods silently, departing without further comment. Praveen turns to Akshara "get prepared for the marriage I don't want a single complain" he says in his usual hostile tone and leaves followed by Akshara as they walk to the parking lot.

MEANWHILE IN AGNIVANSHI MANSION,

Digvijay arrived at the Agnivanshi mansion and instructed the butler to gather everyone. Once they had all assembled, he announced, "I've made a deal with Praveen Shekhawat, and to seal the agreement, we're marrying Atharv to his granddaughter."

At this revelation, Atharv swiftly protested, "I won't marry anyone, Grandpa." Digvijay's tone turned strict as he shot back,

"I wasn't asking for your opinion. I was informing you about my decision. You are the heir, but don't think that gives you the right to argue with me. I won't go easy on you."

Digvijay adds as Atharv shuts up "Be prepared for the meet. I will inform everyone about the time and date"

Soon enough Digvijay and other family members walks to their respective room leaving a furious Atharv behind. He stormed off, his hands clenched in fists, veins popping on his forehead. Frustration seethed through his pores as he slammed his door shut, fueled by his deep-seated loathing of the Shekhawats. The fierce rivalry between their families and the constant spying had only heightened his distaste. Atharv was resolute in making things difficult for the woman he was being compelled to marry, even though he hadn't yet met her.

*****

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