Shadow of redemption

Rakshit attending the event

Hello everyone welcome to new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

A

s Rakshit turned to leave, he suddenly paused when Aaravi's phone rang. His sharp instincts made him stop in his tracks, curiosity creeping in. He subtly positioned himself, listening to her end of the conversation.

The voice on the other end was that of an elderly woman, her tone filled with worry. Aaravi's demeanor instantly softened as she responded with calm reassurance.

"Mina Amma, please don't worry. I'll handle everything. The funds will be raised, and we'll ensure every child gets the treatment they deserve. Just trust me, okay?"

When Aaravi ended the call and looked up, she noticed Rakshit still standing there, his dark eyes fixed on her. She raised an eyebrow. "What happened? Something on your mind?"

His voice, though casual, held an edge of concern. "Are you in some kind of trouble? You sounded worried."

Aaravi smiled warmly, shaking her head. "No, not trouble. We're organizing a fundraiser at the NGO for cancer treatments for children. Mina Amma, our caretaker, just gets anxious about the arrangements."

Rakshit nodded but remained silent, his mind already processing the information. Aaravi saw the opportunity and stepped in closer, her voice soft yet persuasive. "You should come, Rakshit."

He looked at her, puzzled. "Me? At an NGO event?"

Aaravi smiled, her tone now playful. "Yes, you. You could be a huge help."

Rakshit's brow furrowed, his usual arrogance creeping back. "I don't do public events, Aaravi. Especially not charity campaigns."

Aaravi placed her hand on his arm, her touch gentle yet firm. "It's not just any event. We're talking about children who are fighting for their lives. You've seen people in tough spots before, but this... this is different. These kids didn't choose this life. They need support. Your presence could make a real difference."

Rakshit's expression didn't soften immediately, but something in her words resonated with him. The children, the victims-they were so far from the world he was used to. Yet here was Aaravi, trying to pull him into it.

"You know I don't fit in there," he said, his voice lower, almost conflicted.

Aaravi smiled knowingly. "That's exactly why you should come. You might be surprised at what you find." She paused, looking up into his eyes. "Besides, I could use your support."

Her words hit him in a way he didn't expect. Rakshit wasn't used to people asking for his help in such a genuine way. And for Aaravi? How could he refuse?

He sighed, giving in but still holding onto his facade. "Fine. But don't expect me to mingle."

At the event, Rakshit stood near the edge of the room, his arms crossed, his mafia persona fully intact. The crowd was full of families, children, and elderly people, all drawn to the cause. It was the polar opposite of the world he knew. He felt out of place, a dark figure amidst so much warmth and hope.

Aaravi, however, was in her element, moving gracefully among the attendees, speaking with each one, her smile lighting up the room. She would occasionally glance over at Rakshit, giving him encouraging looks, and finally, she walked over to him.

"Come on, Rakshit," she said with a teasing smile. "I won't let you just stand in the corner all day."

Reluctantly, Rakshit followed her into the crowd. He found himself surrounded by children, their faces bright with curiosity. One little boy, no older than five, tugged at Rakshit's sleeve.