Shadows of control

29. Family meeting.

Author's pov:

The whole Oberoi family was gathered in the living room. Devika was sitting on the queen chair as she is, looking like she owned the place. Vikram and Malaika were on the couch, with Kiara beside them. Vijay and Alina were sitting together, and Naira was sitting alone on another couch, looking a bit on edge. It seemed like everyone was there to talk about her.

They were deep in a serious conversation when Ansh and Sofia descended the stairs. Everyone's eyes immediately turned towards the couple.

Vijay, Kiara, and Naira were stunned to see Ansh and Sofia together. As siblings who knew the harsh reality of their brother's relationship, they were surprised to witness this sudden change in his behavior. A chuckle escaped Vijay and Naira as they exchanged a knowing glance. They could hardly believe that their brother, once so ruthless, could now treat a woman with such tenderness. Kiara, too, couldn't hide a small smile, quickly masking it before anyone noticed.

Ansh, seemingly uninterested in the family gathering, turned to leave without even glancing at them Sofia, however, gently held his hand, urging him to stay and greet his family.

"Ansh,"
Devika's voice, sharp and commanding, cut through the room.
"Your sister is getting married"

Ansh was stunned, his voice echoed in the room
"What"
He said in disbelief turning to face her.

Devika, gestured both of them towards the couch,
"Sit down. We need to talk."

Ansh and Sofia sat down in front of Devika. Ansh, still a bit bewildered, asked
"Why am I the last one to know about this?"

"As if you've ever cared about me before,"
Naira retorted, her voice laced with bitterness.

" Don't act like you're oblivious. I've always had my eyes on you, you're my fucking sister"
Ansh sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Naira remained silent, a flicker of fear in her eyes. She knew her brothers, especially Ansh, were fiercely protective. Their men were always watching, ensuring her safety. She understood the undertone of his words, a warning disguised as a taunt.

"Whom has she chosen to marry?"
he asked Devika, his voice laced with a dangerous undertone.

"It's Leo,"
Devika replied, her voice filled with pride.

Ansh was stunned. Leo, his trusted right-hand man, was the one Naira had chosen A wave of disbelief washed over him. He never imagined his sister would choose someone so close to him, someone he considered family.

Ansh was stunned, his face a mask of disbelief and anger. He felt a surge of betrayal, a sense of violation. He stood up abruptly, ready to storm out, but Sofia caught his hand trying to calm him down.

Vikram's voice, firm
"Don't be too quick to react"
Vikram warned,
"Take Your seat, You might regret it again"

Ansh was taken back by Vikram' words.
Yes, he always Regret his too quick actions.
He took his seat.

"Ansh,"
Malaika said, her voice soft and maternal,
"Leo is like a family to us. Whenever any problem has caused he was always there for us, ready to sacrifice his own life . Yes, he doesn't belong from our world but he's capable enough to protect Naira. And If they love each other, we should support them."

Malaika's words made Ansh think.
He knew Leo's capabilities and his sharp intellect. He had always been impressed by Leo's dedication and strength. Perhaps, he thought, Leo was indeed the right man for Naira.

"And the most important thing,"
Kiara added, her voice dripping with venom,
"he's not from your rivals.
So this time, you won't be able to object, will you?"

Everyone's gaze turned towards Kiara, surprised by her sharp remark.

Ansh simply smirked, his eyes cold and calculating. He didn't need to say anything. His silence, more than any words, spoke volumes about his true feelings.

"Leo is a capable man for naira, no doubt. But he's also a man with enemies, only I know with how many men he's dealing daily. Many people want him dead. I can't risk Naira's safety by letting her marry into that world," Ansh explained, his voice heavy with concern.

"And what about us?"
Vijay interrupted, his voice was sharp
"Aren't we married? Aren't our wives safe with us despite having enemies?"

Ansh jaw clenched
"Oh really? You think your wife is safe with you?
You forgot the time Thakur's men kidnapped her and you were going crazy like a psycho"
Ansh scoffed

Naira, her voice firm and resolute, cut through the tension.
"Enough!"
she declared, silencing the room.
"It's my life, my decision. I'm marrying him, not you. I'm not asking for your approval, I'm telling you. And that's final."
With a defiant glare, she stormed out of the room.

Ansh stormed out of the room, his anger palpable. Sofia, sensing the storm brewing within him, followed closely behind.

Now, only time would reveal the fate of their love.