His Bride

23 / Gunshots & Message

Arushi's POV

The anniversary celebration was in full swing. The garden sparkled with fairy lights, the scent of fresh flowers filled the air, and laughter echoed around us. It felt like a perfect evening—one where I finally felt like I belonged.

Meeting my mother's father, my Nanna, had stirred a lot of emotions in me. He still blamed himself for everything that had happened in the past—for losing touch with my mom, for not being there when she needed him.

"I failed her, Aru," he had said, his voice trembling. "I should have tried harder. Maybe if I had, things would have been different."

I placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "No, Nanna. Mom never hated you. She loved you and spoke about you often. Life just... took a different turn. She never wanted it to end the way it did."

He nodded, his eyes misty, and hugged me tightly. "I'm so glad I found you, Aru. You're a part of her that I get to keep with me."

The warmth of family surrounded me. It felt so good to see Aadhi being showered with love. Dhruv's brothers adored her, turning into overprotective uncles who spoiled her endlessly.

Hardik and Naksh were the worst offenders. They would sneak her chocolates and toys, whispering conspiratorially, "Don't tell Mama, okay?" Lakshay, on the other hand, loved teaching her silly tricks that left her giggling uncontrollably.

I watched them from afar, smiling to myself. Aadhi looked so happy. She was laughing with Lakshay, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

And then it happened.

A loud gunshot pierced the air, shattering the joyful atmosphere.

My heart stopped. For a split second, everything froze. Then panic took over.

"Aadhi!" I screamed, my voice trembling with fear as I bolted towards her. The sound of footsteps and frantic voices surrounded me, but all I could focus on was finding her.

"Move!" I pushed through the crowd, my pulse racing. My eyes darted around wildly until I spotted her near the fountain, Lakshay shielding her with his body.

"Lakshay!" I called out, breathless.

He turned his head slightly, his face tense but calm. "She's okay, Bhabhi. I've got her."

I rushed over and scooped Aadhi into my arms, holding her tightly. My hands trembled as I checked her for any injuries. She clung to me, confused and scared.

"Mama, what happened?" Aadhi's tiny voice broke my heart.

"It's okay, baby. You're safe," I whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Mama's here."

Dhruv appeared beside me, his expression hard and unreadable. His eyes scanned the area, sharp and calculating. He was already in protective mode, his entire body tense like a coiled spring ready to strike.

"Are you both okay?" His voice was low, controlled, but his eyes betrayed his worry.

I nodded, though my heart was still racing. "Yes. We're fine. What... what was that?"

Lakshay stood, his jaw clenched. "Someone fired a shot from outside the perimeter. It wasn't random. They were aiming at someone."

Dhruv's face darkened, his protective instincts kicking into high gear. "Take the family inside. Lock the doors. Call security and have them sweep the area."

Hardik and Naksh were already moving, ushering guests into the house. Baba and Chachu looked visibly shaken but tried to stay composed for the family's sake.