𝐌𝐚𝐟𝐢𝐚 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠'𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐛𝐢𝐰𝐢

"17. Embracing the Fragile Heart"

"Mere Noor ki aakhon me nami hai
Dil hi Dil me vo kitni dari sehmi hai
Puri karunga uski har khwaish
Dur karunga uska har dard
Dunga use har vo Khushi
Jiski uski zindagi me kami hai"

-Vaidehi
(-Fictionflare)

The next day, Rudraksh had some crucial work that required him to be at the office, so he decided to leave Ruhanika at home with Rishwik. Before heading out, he turned to Rishwik, his expression serious, and made a rather stern request, almost a threat, to ensure that he took excellent care of Ruhanika. Rishwik, slightly amused, raised an eyebrow as if to say, "As if I wouldn't!" With a final nod of assurance, Rudraksh left no stone unturned in ensuring Ruhanika's safety. He instructed the security in charge of the RM mansion to keep a vigilant eye on her, emphasizing that nothing should happen to her while he was away. Then, turning to Ruhanika, he issued a series of well-meaning instructions: "Don't run around, make sure you eat properly, and if you need anything, ask Rishwik to call me." Once he was satisfied that everything was in place, Rudraksh finally headed to the office, feeling a mix of concern and reassurance. As he drove to Malhotra Enterprises alongside Ashvik and Amandeep, he couldn't shake off the thought of Ruhanika's safety and well-being.

Four hours had passed since Rudraksh left for the office, and during that time, he had called Rishwik six times, each time inquiring about Ruhanika's well-being. Meanwhile, Rishwik and Ruhanika were comfortably settled in the living room, engrossed in a comedy movie that had them both laughing heartily while munching on popcorn. As the movie concluded, Rishwik casually changed the channel to find something new to watch. Suddenly, without warning, someone grabbed Rishwik's hand and yanked him to his feet. Both he and Ruhanika were startled by the sudden movement. Ruhanika stood up as well, her eyes still glued to the television, a look of shock frozen on her face. Fear began to creep into Ruhanika's heart as she sensed something was amiss, the joy from the movie quickly fading. Rishwik turned to see who had interrupted their moment of fun, and his expression mirrored Ruhanika's shock.

Rishwik: "Bas, aaj khatam hu main."
(I'm finished today.)

Person: "Kaha hai vo Rudraksh????"
(Where is Rudraksh???)

The person shouted, or rather roared, his voice echoing with anger that was palpable in the air. His furious gaze was fixed on Rishwik as he took a menacing step closer. Ruhanika felt a chill run down her spine, and she began to tremble as tears streamed down her cheeks. After weeks of peace and laughter in the house, the sudden eruption of hostility shattered her newfound sense of safety. The fear of being hurt again engulfed her, and she instinctively took a step back. Before the angry figure could unleash more harsh words, Rishwik quickly intervened, stepping in front of her protectively.

Rishwik: "Bhai, bhai please suniye, meri baat suniye Kartavya bhai, shant ho jaiye."
(Brother, brother please listen to me, Kartavya bhai, calm down, please.)

Kartavya: "Shut up, Rishwik! You told me that Rudraksh forced someone into marriage, and now you're asking me to calm down??"

Kartavya's voice boomed as he shouted at Rishwik, but each word only heightened Ruhanika's fear. Her heart raced, and her breathing quickened, making it hard for her to gather her thoughts. The sight of Kartavya's anger was overwhelming, and she felt her body trembling uncontrollably. In a desperate attempt to steady herself, she clutched the fabric of her dress tightly, as if it could provide her with some semblance of comfort and protection. Tears continued to roll down her cheeks, blurring her vision as panic took hold of her, amplifying the fear that had begun to creep back into her heart.

Rishwik: "Bhai yaar, aap aadhi baat sun ke yaha aa gaye, mujhe meri baat kehne ka mauka toh do. Jaisa aap soch rahe ho vaisa nahi hai."
(Brother, you came here after hearing only half of the story. At least let me explain. It's not what you think.)