Secrets of the Past (Completed)

8. The Party

1st January 2020

Raizada mansion was decked like a bride. The first day of the new year was always celebrated as a grand party with a royal theme every year. This had been the norm for centuries.

All the important VIPs around the world would never miss this chance. A ball was also arranged.

Anjali and Kushi were busy with the event managers from morning. They wanted to make this party a grand success like every year.

Arnav, NK, Sid and Akash had returned the previous day. Usually, they would return to their respective homes for a day's rest and then return to Raizada mansion to attend the new year party to socialize with the business associates and other famous personalities.

But this time, Arnav had made it clear that till the CBI completed the case, his friends would be with him at his home no matter what.

It was almost time for the party to begin when Hari Prakash, their loyal Butler, informed Arnav about Ranvijay and his team's visit.

Masking his shock and surprised look, he informed the butler to make the guests seated in his study room.

**********

"Welcome Mr. Ranvijay. It's a pleasure to finally meet you and your team. What can I do for you?"

Ranvijay - hello Mr. Raizada, good to see you back from your business trip.

You know that the CBI has taken up the murder case of your model and friend. In regard to that, we were taking your family's statements when your sister fell ill.

Arnav - yes I know. Sorry about that. Do you want to continue your investigation today?

Vasundhara - no Mr. Raizada. Not today but tomorrow. And we have employed strict security measures for your this party too. Our team will be mingling among the guests. We have got the required permission from our higher officials. Hope you will not deny.

Arnav - no problem. Safety comes first. If you need any help feel free to ask.

After shaking hands, the team left.

Making sure that he was alone, he immediately informed his friends about the latest development and gave them a few instructions.

Looks like he has to postpone his work.

************

The party was on full swing. No one was allowed inside the mansion without an invitation. The staff were given separate ID cards, security was so tight that no one in their sane mind would try to create a nuisance.

Ranvijay and his team were alert. They had this feeling that something was going to happen today. To be on the safe side, all the exit points were sealed once the guests entered the premises. Cameras were fixed everywhere and policemen were monitoring each and every move.

************

She knew. One wrong move and they would be caught. She typed a message to her partner.

"don't, not now, target among crowd."

He immediately moved away and mingled with the business associates. No one could find out his restlessness. No, this was not the time. Their prey was right in front of them, but he couldn't. Situation didn't favor them. They need to wait and execute their plan.

***********

The shadow felt pity. Poor people. Everyone was having their own plans.

But no one knows what was going to happen. Targeting now would get them in trouble. These two were going to fall in the trap. She has to help them.
They are unaware of her presence. They want Justice, but they chose a wrong time. Justice cannot be given without making the culprits regret for their deeds. Timing is important.

When the said two people were alone, planning for the attack, she decided to confront them.

"Excuse me sir, ma'am, please take these sweets".

Man - no thanks.

Woman - wait, give two pieces and go.

After handing over, the partners waited till the waiter moved.

"Don't do anything in a hurry BB. We need to be safe. No one should doubt us. Just go with the flow, once I signal you, do the needful. Today will be the last day for these 4 friends."

"Ok, but you be careful. Now come on, eat the sweet and let's get going."

***********

Something was missing. Rather someone. Realizing that Bubbly was nowhere, Kushi informed Arnav that she was going to search for Bubbly when the lights dimmed.

"Ladies and gentlemen, wish you all a very happy new year. May this year bring peace and joy. The last few days had been really hectic. This party was arranged so that our new daughter in law feels relaxed. Kushi bahu, thank you for standing with us during these trying and testing times. This song is for you."

Mahendra Singh Raizada gave the opening speech mesmerizing the audience. A slow song started playing in the background. Arnav came forward and gave his hand.

"May I have the privilege to dance with you my love?"

Blushing at his endearment, Kushi and Arnav started dancing slowly.