Shadow of redemption

Mumbai

As Aryan drove Aaravi to the airport, his face was filled with concern. He began his usual list of instructions, unable to help himself. “Aaravi, remember to call me as soon as you land, alright? And don’t forget to eat on time. No skipping meals just because you’re busy!”

Aaravi chuckled, looking at her brother’s worried expression. “Bhai, you know I’ll be fine. You don’t have to worry so much!”

But Aryan continued, unfazed. “And stay away from cold drinks! You catch a cold so easily—don’t even think about having ice cream. And keep your medicines handy in case you need them.”

She shook her head, smiling softly. “Yes, Dr. Aryan Kapoor, I’ll follow all your instructions. Anything else?”

Aryan glanced at her and gave a small smile. “Just… take care of yourself, Aaravi. I know you’re capable, but it’s hard for me to let you go alone.”

Touched by his words, Aaravi reached over and squeezed his hand. “I’m lucky to have a brother who loves me so much. Don’t worry, I’ll be back soon.”

As they neared the airport, she felt a deep sense of gratitude for the love and care surrounding her.

As Aaravi stepped out of the car, she waved at Aryan with a warm smile. "Take care of yourself, bhai, and everyone else too. I’ll call you as soon as I reach," she reassured him before turning to enter the bustling airport.

A few hours later, Aaravi’s plane touched down in Mumbai, and as she emerged from the airport, her eyes scanned the crowd, searching for one person in particular. And there he was—standing beside a sleek black car, looking effortlessly regal. Rakshit had a presence that commanded attention; his tall frame was dressed in a tailored, dark blue blazer and crisp white shirt, exuding an aura of power. With his sunglasses concealing his intense eyes and a black mask covering his face, only the lower part of his chiseled jaw was visible. His posture was relaxed but alert, his stance exuding quiet authority and confidence, like a king surveying his domain.

Despite his partial disguise, Aaravi knew immediately that it was her Rakshit. Her heart raced as she grabbed her luggage and moved towards him, unable to hold back her excitement. Rakshit noticed her the moment she spotted him, and his lips curled into a subtle smile beneath the mask.

Before she knew it, Aaravi had reached him, and Rakshit extended his arms, pulling her into a tight embrace. His arms wrapped around her as if he’d been waiting for this moment, holding her with a mix of intensity and relief, as though letting go might cause her to disappear.

"Aaravi," he murmured, his voice softened with a tenderness he reserved only for her. "You’re finally here."

Aaravi’s heart swelled with happiness, feeling the warmth of his embrace. She whispered, "Rakshit, I’ve missed you so much," her voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid to break the magic of the moment.

Rakshit loosened his hold just enough to look at her, pulling down his mask and removing his sunglasses. His intense gaze met hers, and for a moment, they both forgot about the world around them. He gently brushed a strand of hair from her face, his hand lingering on her cheek. "I can’t tell you how much I’ve waited for this moment. To see you… to know you’re safe here, with me."

Aaravi’s eyes shimmered with warmth. "I knew you’d be here. Somehow, I just knew."

In that moment, Rakshit felt a surge of emotions—love, protectiveness, and a fierce desire to keep her safe from all the darkness in his world. He held her hands, his voice filled with resolve. "As long as I’m here, nothing will ever harm you. I promise you that."

Aaravi smiled, her fingers gently tightening around his. "I trust you completely, Rakshit. With you, I feel… safe, loved."

Rakshit’s gaze softened, and he brought her hands to his lips, placing a gentle kiss on her fingers. "Then let’s make every moment count, Aaravi. This is our beginning."

In that embrace, in the middle of Mumbai’s bustling crowd, they felt like they were in their own world, a sanctuary built on trust, love, and a silent promise that neither of them would ever let go.

Rakshit walked over to the passenger side, opening the door with a gentle, almost regal gesture and helping Aaravi into the seat. He adjusted her seatbelt carefully, making sure she was comfortable before his hand lingered near hers for a second longer, and their eyes met. In that moment, there was an undeniable spark between them—a silent exchange filled with love, affection, and an unspoken promise. Aaravi felt a warmth in her chest, a flutter that only grew stronger as she took in his gaze. Her heart raced, feeling so safe and cherished, as if he was her own fairytale prince.

Rakshit, usually stoic and impenetrable to the world, couldn’t help but soften in her presence. To him, she was light in his dark, ruthless world, and he would give anything to see her happy. Without a word, he closed her door, walked around the car, and settled into the driver’s seat. As he started the engine, his voice was gentle, almost playful. “If you’re hungry, check the compartment in front. I stocked it with some snacks for you.”

Curious, Aaravi opened the compartment and gasped at the sight. There was an array of snacks—chips, chocolates, juice, water, and even some fruits neatly packed. She looked at him, wide-eyed and surprised. “Rakshit… this is too much! You really didn’t have to. I’m so touched that you thought of all this.”

Rakshit glanced at her with a soft smile, a hint of pride glowing in his eyes. “I didn’t know what you might like, so I thought… why not get everything? I just wanted you to feel comfortable.” He shrugged, but Aaravi could see the effort and thoughtfulness behind his gesture, and it warmed her heart.

She placed her hand over his, squeezing it gently. “You’re truly my prince charming, Rakshit. And more than that, you’re just… perfect. Thank you for caring so much. I love you.”

Rakshit felt a rare warmth flood through him at her words. For a man feared and revered by the entire criminal world, these simple words from Aaravi meant more than any power or authority he had. She saw past his cold exterior, loved him without even knowing the darker side of him, and that trust humbled him. He turned to her, his gaze softening, as he whispered, “I’m honored to be that person for you, Aaravi. And I’ll do everything I can to keep you smiling, always.”

As they drove, there was a peaceful silence between them, each aware of the other’s presence, a feeling of completeness settling in. Aaravi leaned back, nibbling on a piece of chocolate, a small smile gracing her lips. Rakshit glanced over every so often, unable to resist sneaking glances at her happiness.

In that moment, Rakshit felt he had found his purpose—not as a ruthless king of the underworld, but as the man who would go to any lengths to protect, love, and cherish Aaravi. For now, he could be her Rakshit, her caring, thoughtful boyfriend who would do whatever it took to keep her safe and happy.

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