DESTINED HEARTS: A LOVE BEYOND FATE'S GRASP

4.THE UNSEEN WEB

It was a sunny morning in Mumbai, and the Rajvansh family estate was bustling with activity. The sprawling mansion, nestled in the heart of the city, stood as a testament to the Rajvansh legacy-a blend of modern architecture and traditional Indian design, reflecting both the past and the future. The gardens were meticulously maintained, blooming with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. Inside, the house was filled with the aroma of fresh flowers and the sounds of the household waking up to a new day.

Shivansh's mother, Anjali Rajvansh, was in the kitchen, supervising the preparation of breakfast. A woman in her late fifties, Anjali had an air of grace and authority. Her dark hair, streaked with silver, was pulled back into a neat bun, and she wore a simple but elegant sari. She was a pillar of strength, the one who kept the family together, especially after her husband's untimely death a decade ago. She believed in maintaining traditions, but she was also a progressive thinker, understanding the changing times.

"Make sure to add extra spices to the parathas," she instructed the cook, her voice calm but firm. "You know how Arjun likes them."

Her thoughts were never far from her children. She had two: Shivansh, her eldest, and his younger sister, Aisha. They were the light of her life, and she had devoted herself to ensuring their happiness. But lately, her heart was heavy with worry for Shivansh. Since Ruhi's disappearance, he had become a shadow of his former self, withdrawn and somber. She could see the pain in his eyes, the silent suffering he tried to hide from everyone. It broke her heart to see him like this.

As if on cue, Shivansh entered the kitchen, looking tired but determined. He greeted his mother with a kiss on the cheek. "Good morning, Ma. Smells great in here."

Anjali smiled, hiding her concern behind a cheerful facade. "Good morning, beta. I'm making your favorite breakfast today. You need to eat well, you look too thin."

Shivansh chuckled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "I'm fine, Ma. Just been busy with work."

"Busy with work or busy worrying about Ruhi?" Anjali asked gently, her eyes searching his. She knew her son too well.

Shivansh looked away, not wanting to meet her gaze. "A little of both," he admitted. "I just... I can't stop thinking about her. I need to find her, Ma. I need to know why she left."

Anjali sighed, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I know, beta. But you have to take care of yourself too. You can't go on like this. Ruhi wouldn't want that."

Shivansh nodded, though he wasn't sure he believed it. His mother's words made sense, but his heart wouldn't let him rest. He took a deep breath, trying to change the subject. "Where's Aisha? Still asleep?"

Anjali's face softened at the mention of her daughter. "No, she's upstairs, getting ready. She has a meeting with a fashion designer today. You know how she is, always busy with her fashion line."

Aisha Rajvansh was the opposite of her brother. Where Shivansh was serious and introspective, Aisha was lively and outgoing. She had a passion for fashion, having studied design in Paris, and had recently launched her own fashion label. Her designs were a hit, and she was quickly making a name for herself in the industry. Despite her success, she was grounded, always putting her family first.

---

Upstairs, Aisha stood in front of her mirror, assessing her reflection. Her long, dark hair fell in loose waves around her shoulders, and she wore a stylish dress of her own design. She applied a touch of lip gloss, satisfied with her look. Her phone buzzed on the dresser, and she picked it up, smiling when she saw the caller ID.

"Hey, Rhea!" Aisha greeted, her voice bright. Rhea Malhotra was her best friend and business partner. They had met in college and had been inseparable ever since. Rhea was the practical one, always keeping Aisha grounded, while Aisha brought creativity and flair to their partnership.