Destiny For Unlikely Vows

Chapter 35

His expression was blank, as if he was processing the information. Then he said, “Yes, I am very happy that you left on your own. And regarding your job, I am very professional in this matter. I don’t fire people just because they are gold diggers.”
Hearing this, my self-respect was deeply hurt. “What do you mean by gold digger, Mr. Rathore? What have I ever ‘dug’ from you? Please elaborate. If you’re referring to the time I stayed at your house or the flight ticket, then tell me the amount you’ve spent on me, and I will refund it as soon as possible,” I replied firmly.
His expression hardened, and he eyed me angrily. “If you are so desperate to return my money, then do it,” he said coldly.
I was stunned. “What?” I managed to say, completely blank for a moment.
He smiled cynically and said, “It’s around 500,000. You have ten days to return it. If you fail, you’ll have to work as a maid in my house.”
I was shocked. This man had the audacity to speak like this!
“And now what happened? Cat got your tongue?” he sneered. “How will you save your self-respect now?”
I took a deep breath, suppressing my anger. “Fine, give me ten days. But if I manage to return the amount, you will not disturb or insult me in the organization,” I stated firmly.
“Deal,” he said, smirking.
As if that wasn’t enough, he continued, “Let’s talk about the way you dress. Do you enjoy other people looking at you like you’re readily available for anyone? Are you that desperate for attention, even from your so-called friend, Ankit, who helped you leave the house?”
His words left me beyond angry, but I decided not to argue further. Without another word, I gathered my belongings and left.
I stepped out into the night, drenched from head to toe. My phone was completely wet, and I had no idea how I would get home. I needed to walk at least half a mile to find a cab or any transport. Tears began to stream down my face as I walked, wanting to escape this humiliating moment.
Lost in my thoughts, I suddenly felt someone grab my waist and stop me. For a moment, I panicked, but then I turned and saw Ankit. Relief washed over me as I hugged him tightly and cried. I cried for five more minutes, letting out all my frustration.
Ankit gently pulled me back and said, “I’ve been calling you since you left the hotel room. I was so worried. What happened? Why are you crying? Did Mr. Rathore say something to you?”
“No,” I lied. “He just scolded me for being careless. And I embarrassed myself in front of so many people, which is why I was crying. Nothing else.”
He sighed and consoled me. “It’s okay. Come with me. Let’s go home, and I’ll bake your favorite chocolate cake,” he said with a smile.
I managed a small smile. Why wasn’t I destined to marry someone like Ankit? He was truly the best person in the world.
We walked toward his car. As I stood by the parking area, I felt a mix of emotions. At least I had one good friend. I had family, work, and friends. And one day, I would become so rich that I’d make Mr. Rathore my maid. The thought of him in a maid’s dress made me smile.
Lost in my thoughts again, I suddenly felt someone cover my mouth and drag me to a nearby wall. It was dark, and my heart raced in fear. I was about to scream when I realized it was none other than the devil himself—Mr. Rathore.
As soon as our eyes met, he said angrily, “Did you enjoy your little get-together with your so-called friend?”
I wanted to reply, but he placed his palm over my lips. He was furious, and so was I.
“You know what? Do whatever you want because soon, you’ll become my maid. And I’ll make sure you know your place,” he spat, leaving me stunned against the wall.
I was still processing what had just happened when Ankit honked his car horn to get my attention. Coming back to my senses, I got into the car.
“What were you doing there in the dark?” he asked.
“Nothing. I was looking for you,” I lied again.
The entire ride home, I stared out of the window, lost in thoughts about how to repay Mr. Rathore. I didn’t have the money, and I didn’t want to take out a loan because of the high interest rates. I felt trapped.
When we reached Ankit’s place, I was about to enter the building when he held my hand and said, “Riya, whatever is going on, everything will be fine. I know you’re not the kind of person to be embarrassed over small things like falling into a pool. And I won’t pressure you to share what you don’t want to. But as your friend, I promise I’ll always be here for you.”
His words comforted me. “I know, and thank you,” I said. Then, lightening the mood, I added, “And don’t think I’ve forgotten about that chocolate cake!”
He laughed. “You caught me there,” he joked.
I went to my room, changed into comfortable clothes, and joined him for the promised chocolate cake.
From a young age, I learned that no one could solve your problems except yourself. My mother had always guided me, helping me find solutions.
Instead of dwelling on small troubles, I smiled and headed to Ankit’s room. We shared the cake, laughed, and discussed a project before I said goodbye and returned to my room.
I wanted to sleep, but thoughts of Mr. Rathore kept me awake. Finally, around 1 a.m., I drifted off, still determined to find a way out of this mess.
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