A LOVE WRITTEN IN SHADOWS

Chapter Fourteen: A Quiet Agreement

Devansh stood in his penthouse office, the city lights twinkling like stars beneath him. A heavy air of anticipation hung around him as he prepared to speak with Arjun Rathore. The plan was unconventional—far from the traditional wedding he knew Saanvi and her family might expect—but it was necessary given the circumstances.

He dialed Arjun's number, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. After a few rings, Arjun answered, his voice warm but curious. "Devansh! It's good to hear from you. What's on your mind?"

"Thank you for taking my call, Arjun. I wanted to discuss the wedding arrangements for Saanvi," Devansh said, getting straight to the point.

"Of course! I've been looking forward to this conversation. Are we planning a grand celebration?" Arjun asked, a hint of enthusiasm in his tone.

Devansh paused, choosing his words carefully. "Actually, I'd like to propose a different approach. Given the current situation with my enemies, I think it's best if we keep things low-key."

Arjun's demeanor shifted slightly, sensing the seriousness in Devansh's tone. "Low-key? What do you mean?"

"I believe it would be safer for Saanvi and your family if we skip the traditional wedding. Instead, I'd like you to bring Saanvi to my penthouse tomorrow, along with her belongings. We can make it official there," Devansh explained, his voice steady.

Silence hung on the line as Arjun processed the information. "You're asking me to do this without the customary rituals? You realize this is quite unorthodox, Devansh."

"I know, but it's necessary. There are threats looming over us, and I won't put Saanvi in harm's way," Devansh asserted. "This way, we can avoid drawing attention and keep her safe."

Arjun sighed, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I appreciate your concern for Saanvi's safety, Devansh. But we have to consider her feelings, too. She deserves a beautiful wedding, not just a hurried arrangement."

Devansh nodded, though he knew Arjun couldn't see him. "I promise to make it special in our own way. Once things settle, we can plan a celebration with family and friends. For now, we need to act discreetly. I can't risk anyone discovering what's happening."

After a moment, Arjun relented. "Alright. If you believe this is the best course of action, I trust your judgment. I'll speak to Saanvi and explain the situation. But how do we ensure that no one gets suspicious?"

"We need to frame it as a simple visit. I'll make sure that my security team is on high alert and ready to manage any potential threats. Just assure her that everything will be fine," Devansh replied, his mind already strategizing their next steps.

"Very well, Devansh. I'll convey this to her and gather her things. We'll leave in the morning, and I'll do my best to keep things under wraps," Arjun said, his tone firm yet supportive.

"Thank you, Arjun. I appreciate your understanding and cooperation," Devansh replied, relief washing over him.

"Just ensure you take good care of my daughter," Arjun added, a hint of fatherly concern evident in his voice. "She means the world to me."

"I will," Devansh assured him, his heart steady with conviction. "I'll protect her as if she were my own."

As the call ended, Devansh leaned back in his chair, a wave of determination flooding through him. The path ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but he was ready to face whatever challenges came their way. Saanvi was worth it, and he wouldn't let fear dictate their future.

He glanced at the cityscape again, the lights shimmering like stars against the deepening night. Tomorrow would mark a new chapter in their lives—a secret beginning that could only flourish under the shadows of their shared resolve.