"You are my mistress," Akhil said, and with those words, he tied Raina's hands to the headboard of the bed and climbed on top of her. Raina was screaming and crying when Akhil tore her sari off her chest.<br /> <br /> "Raina Sharma's forced marriage.... "You are my mistress," Akhil said, and with those words, he tied Raina's hands to the headboard of the bed and climbed on top of her. Raina was screaming and crying when Akhil tore her sari off her chest.<br /> <br /> "Raina Sharma's forced marriage... to a man who hates love!"<br /> <br /> One day, Raina — a simple, dreamy girl — is married to a man she has never even met.<br /> <br /> Akhilesh Rajvanshi — the owner of a company worth millions. A successful businessman to the outside world... but inside, a cruel-hearted man who doesn't believe in love and wants only conditions, not heart, in relationships.<br /> <br /> For Raina, marriage was a dream — full of love, trust, and a partnership.<br /> <br /> But for Akhilesh?<br /> <br /> Just a compulsion… and Raina? Just a name that will now be called his wife — Mrs. Rajvanshi, without any affection.<br /> <br /> Akhilesh doesn't accept her, and Raina can't leave him.<br /> <br /> With each passing day, those two hearts grow further apart… but there's something strange —<br /> <br /> Even in this hateful relationship, there is something that draws Raina closer to Akhilesh… and doesn't let Akhilesh stay away from Raina.<br /> <br /> Will Raina be able to find a place in this heart of stone?<br /> <br /> Or will this marriage remain just a name... for the rest of their lives?<br />
Page 1 of 17
With every creak of the door, her eyes would snap towards it. In her hands, a glass of milk — trembling, as if the unrest in her heart had descended into her palms.
Suddenly… the door opened.
He entered — not the husband of her dreams, but of her name. He strode into the room with heavy steps, as if he had already shouldered the burden of this relationship. Without a word, he took the glass of milk from the girl’s hand and began to drink it himself.
For a moment, a flicker of relief crossed the girl’s face — perhaps today something would change?
But no.
The next moment, he grabbed the girl’s wrist and forcefully pressed the same glass to her lips.
"Drink it!" His voice held neither love nor affection—only command and hatred.
The girl panicked, her eyes welling up. She shook her head in refusal, but it was too late. The milk tasted strange… something like bitterness now seeping directly into her chest.
The girl stumbled and fell onto the bed. She felt as though everything was blurring.
Then he leaned down, whispering in her ear like poison —
"What did you think? That I married you out of love?"
"This
Chapter: Claim of Truth, Storm of Lies
It was seven in the morning. Tea was being made in the kitchen of the Rajvanshi mansion, but an unusual silence had spread through every corner of the house. Even the servants moved slowly, speaking in whispers.
Meanwhile, in the living room, Grandfather, Grandmother, Yashvardhan, Akhil, and other family members had once again gathered in front of the television screen.
“Has there been any new news?” Grandmother asked with mild concern.
“It’s been found out that the girl herself is going to give an interview. Live,” Raghav’s voice was laced with anxiety.
“What new drama will unfold now…” Ranvijay muttered.
On the TV screen, the red ticker of breaking news reappeared—
“EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – The girl with whom Akhilesh Rajvanshi is in controversy has now come forward and is revealing for the first time.”
On the screen, a girl, about 19 years old, appeared sitting on a sofa—dressed in a simple salwar-kameez, with a slight nervousness on her face, but a strange confidence in her voice.
The reporter looked at the camera—
“We have with us Raina Sharma. She is the same girl with whom Akhilesh Rajvanshi was allegedly in that hotel room. Raina, the first thing we would like to ask you is—is what was shown in the video that has surfaced, true?”
A few seconds of silence… then the girl slowly said:
“Yes, that video is true.”
It was as if a bomb had exploded in the Rajvanshi mansion.
“What did she say!” Yash stood up.
“Sit down, Arjun!” Yashvardhan stopped him.
On the TV screen, the girl continued speaking:
“I have known Akhil Sir for the past three months. He himself had met me at a business party. Initially, he was very respectful, but then… things slowly started to change.”
The reporter pressed on:
“You mean…?”
“A relationship had formed between us. That night, we were both in the hotel of our own will. And whatever happened, all that… happened without my consent. He gave me something to drink, after which I started feeling dizzy, then he came close to me and did all that without my consent.”
The Rajvanshi family was stunned.
“She is lying!” Akhil shouted in extreme anger, “I don’t even know her!”
“Then how does this girl know so much about you?” Arjun’s voice still held doubt.
“Someone has bought this girl, brother! This is all a plan. Someone wants us to be ruined!”
The interview on TV had progressed further.
“Do you have any proof of this relationship?”
“Yes.” Raina looked directly into the camera, “I have the chats from that night, photographs. I can also provide phone details if I want.”
The reporter’s face lit up as if he had found the story. His smile was clear—this was not just an interview, it was going to be history.
“Thank you very much, Raina, for showing this courage and bringing your story to everyone.”
The interview ended, but it was as if fire had erupted across news channels, social media platforms, Twitter trends, and newspapers nationwide.
**Time Turns – Impact in Every Corner**
**Corporate World:**
Shares of Rajvanshi Group fell by 6.5% in half a day. Investors’ eyes were now on Akhil’s personal life rather than business. Of the two deals about to be signed, one sent an email— “until clarity emerges, we put this on hold.”
**Social Media:**
“Akhilesh Rajvanshi is trending”—not for any corporate achievement, but for tags like #ScandalPrince and #ShameOnRajvanshi.
**Rival Companies:**
One competitor even issued a press release— “We stand by our values and advocate for the respect of women.” The implication was clear.
**Rajvanshi Mansion – Amidst a Storm**
Yashvardhan switched off the TV and looked at Akhil angrily.
“Speak now! Will you still say you did nothing?”
“Papa, I did nothing! I don’t know her! This is all a lie!”
“Lies! The girl is lying? Lying to the entire country? Her photos? Chats?”
“Someone can create chats, fake everything. My life is being ruined, Papa!”
“Then prove it. Otherwise, get out of this house now!”
Grandmother started crying.
“Our family… had to see this day? The family posing for pictures on Grandmother and Grandfather’s anniversary, today that same picture is being tarnished!”
“Our everything has been shaken by one girl’s statement…” younger brother Nikhil said softly.
Yash sat silently—his face calm, but his eyes constantly fixed on Akhil.
“If you are telling the truth, then you must fight not just with your words, but with evidence. Otherwise, this dynasty… will make a bigger decision than you.”
**Akhil’s Loneliness**
By evening, Akhil had locked himself in his room. The laptop was open before him—his picture, his name on every news channel, and that girl. Raina Sharma.
“Who is this girl?” he asked himself.
He pulled out the call details from that night from his phone, then checked the hotel logs. Nothing… nothing at all matched this girl.
“I haven’t even seen her… so how does she know me?”
He tapped the table with his fingers.
“Someone has sent her… to frame me…”
And then a name surfaced in his mind…
“Vivek Singhania.”
The competitor… the old enemy… whose deal he had snatched last month.
“If this game is his—then this fight is no longer about the media, it will be about my existence… he doesn’t know who he has messed with.”
The Rajvanshi mansion was now in a fighting mode.
One son was trapped.
One girl had come forward.
And the fight that had now begun—was for honor, truth, and power.
The day was drawing to a close.
Golden rays of the setting sun streamed from the high verandahs of the Rajvanshi mansion, and with them, a shadow moved—fast, heavy, and restless.
That shadow was—Akhilesh Rajvanshi’s.
The “breaking” news that had been running on channels for the past three days had broken everything—his name, his face, his actions. And now, even his silence had become part of the debate.
But today, the silence would break.
Because today he was going towards the question that had become the biggest weapon against him—that girl.
**6:10 PM – Borivali – Raina Sharma’s House**
An old, two-story house. Broken cement outside, clothes drying on the balcony, and the old thread of lemons and chilies hanging below, now just swaying.
As Akhil’s SUV stopped, the children in the lane froze. It wasn’t like recognizing a famous person—it was like fear.
He opened the iron gate without hesitation and went inside.
The doorbell rang.
There was a stir inside. The door latch clicked.
And then…
The door opened.
The girl—Raina—stood there.
Her eyes held the same fear that was hidden by the news channel cameras. Simple salwar-kameez, open hair, and so much nervousness on her face—as if someone had sent death to her doorstep.
Akhil glanced into her eyes for a moment.
Raina immediately tried to close the door.
“Wait!” Akhil said in a stern voice.
But she didn’t hear. Or she heard but ignored it.
Slam!
Akhil stopped the door with his foot.
The door remained half-open. There was a silent collision—between silence and rage.
He barged inside. The bodyguards from the other car followed.
Raina stepped back a few steps—trembling.
“You know who I am… yet you did that?” Akhil’s voice now had no echo, but a direct strike.
Raina said nothing. Her face turned paler.
“Speak! What was that? That interview, that footage… who are you? Why did you do all this?”
Raina retreated, trembling. Her gaze shifted from the picture of her parents hanging on the wall to Akhil.
“Are you afraid of me? Or of your lie?”
Now Akhil moved a few steps closer. But he didn’t extend his hand. He only spoke.
“One sentence from you gave my mother a heart attack. My father had to bow his head in shame. Do you know the weight of the name Rajvanshi?”
Raina looked towards the wall—her eyes fixed—as if there was a door on it, from where she could escape.
“Look, I haven’t come to shout. I have come for the truth. But the fear you are showing, it’s clear—the truth is not bigger than you. It is a lie.”
A tear fell from Raina’s eyelids. But her lips remained sealed.
“I am not touching you… nor will I. But I have come to your house because it is my right—you took my name, now you must answer.”
The fan rotated in the room. Her voice and Akhil’s questions—both echoed.
Akhil now stood directly in front of Raina.
“Who sent you? Did you get money? Or was it revenge?”
Raina retreats trembling, but now there is a wall behind her. And between her and Akhil, there is only air—heavy, dense, oppressive.
Akhil watched her for a moment.
“If you remain silent, I will still find the truth. But remember—when the truth comes out, that silence will hurt you the most.”
He turned.
“Sometimes a person becomes guilty even by calling themselves innocent—because they don’t speak, they are just afraid.”
Chapter: The Crack of Pressure – When Silence Becomes Fear
As dusk settled, the street corner fell silent again.
But today's silence was not like the usual –
Today, this silence was like a weapon. Heavy, cold, and placed directly on Raina’s heart.
The storm that had crossed the threshold of the house the previous evening – it had returned today.
But this time, it had arrived with full authority.
A black Range Rover was parked on the street. As soon as its door opened, two well-dressed bodyguards stepped out first – dark glasses, earpieces, and stern faces.
Then he emerged –
Akhilesh Rajvanshi.
A suit from the afternoon, a glimpse of an expensive watch, shining shoes, and a gait as measured – as when a judge enters a courtroom.
He walked straight towards the same door – where Raina’s breath had caught yesterday.
This time, he didn't ring the bell.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
He started pounding on the door.
“Raina!”
The room inside trembled.
Inside Scene – Raina’s Fear
Raina sat silently in the corner. In her hands, she clutched an old silk shawl, wrapped around her knees – as if it were her only protector.
Her phone was on silent. The TV was off. The curtain was drawn across the window.
But the beating of her heart seemed to echo in every wall.
Knock! Knock! Knock! – The door was pounded again.
And then that voice –
“Open it! Or I’ll let your neighbors know what you’ve done to a Rajvanshi.”
Raina shivered.
She knew – he would come again.
But so soon… with such force?
She opened the door a little.
The same face was before her – but this time, her eyes held not just questions, but also anger.
Akhil (in a bitter tone) – “You act so brave in front of the camera. Now speak, when I am standing right here.”
Raina’s lips parted as if to say something, but no sound came out.
Her gaze flickered for a moment to the bodyguards standing behind him, then immediately dropped. Her fingers were still twisting the corner of her kurta.
Akhil (coming closer) – “Tell me, Raina… who is it at whose behest you did this? How much money did you get?”
Two tears rolled down Raina’s eyelids – but still, no sound.
Akhil (in a low but heavy voice) – “I don’t come to anyone’s door repeatedly. But I’ve come today because you have exposed my name. Now your silence has become testimony against me.”
Raina now retreated. Her back hit the wall.
Raina’s Expressions – When Fear Speaks Louder Than Words
Her face wasn't showing exhaustion, but raw fear.
Beads of sweat trickled from her forehead down her cheeks. Her lips were dry. Her eyes were red – but they didn’t hold tears, only a trembling guilt.
For a moment, she tried to say something…
“I… that…”
But then she stopped.
Her throat went dry. Her breath was caught in her chest.
Akhil (increasing the pressure) – “If you still don’t say anything today, I will assume – you are not just a pawn, you are the very move made against me.”
Raina closed her eyes.
It was clearly visible on her face – as if something was breaking within. Memories, regret, or perhaps a battle between fear and truth.
She now slowly whispered to herself, “…I didn’t do anything wrong… I didn’t do anything wrong…”
But she spoke so softly that no one could hear.
The Presence of the Bodyguards and Akhil’s Authority
The two bodyguards standing outside remained still. But their presence was a warning – as if to make Raina realize that she was not just an ordinary girl, but had clashed with a man of power.
Akhil stopped in front of her and took a deep breath.
“You’re not speaking… fine. I will find an answer from your silence too. But remember one thing – in this game, the lion that remains silent, its roar is the most dangerous.”
When He Leaves, But Leaves Fear Behind
Akhil turned towards the door.
But he looked back one last time.
Raina was now sitting on the ground – leaning against the wall, curled into herself.
Her hands were trembling.
Her eyes were closed. But even her eyelids were now trembling.
Akhil’s face held no anger now – only silence.
Because he knew – this silence, sooner or later, would speak.
And when it spoke…
Either the truth would come out,
Or a relationship would be destroyed.
“Spilled Moments – When Accusations Burn Relationships”
Akhilesh's anger now manifested as broken pride and lost honor.
His multi-crore deal, reputation, and awards all slipped away – and he held Raina responsible for it.
On the other hand, Raina spoke a little, but still didn't reveal the truth. Her innocence, her fear, and her silence are the heart of this chapter.
Spilled Moments – When Accusations Burn Relationships
The echoes of the previous conversation still lingered within the walls of the room.
From outside the door, the same cold rustles crept inside –
But this time there was no threat, nor was the door broken.
It was just a knock… soft, but heavy.
Raina went to the door and took a deep breath. The fatigue in her eyes had become deeper than tears. Her heart said – don’t open.
But her hand reached out.
The door opened – and the same face was before her.
But this time, Akhil’s eyes held not flames, but blisters.
Akhil’s Words – When Words Become a Burden
“Do you even know what you have done?”
His voice wasn’t loud, but each word sank in and stung.
Raina said nothing. Her gaze was fixed on the floor.
“Last night, I was supposed to receive the ‘Youth Business Glory’ award from the Government of India. The one that’s given to a young achiever every year…”
He paused. Then he took a copy of a statement from his jacket pocket and threw it on the floor.
“And today, this has arrived – Disqualification Statement.
‘Unethical Conduct. Media Viral Scandal. Shameful Representation.’
Is this what I have become… because of you?”
Raina was still silent.
But her fingers were twisting the corner of her salwar.
Serious Dialogue – Striking the Heart
“Do you think this was just a piece of news?
My biggest deal in life – with an international financial firm –
A deal worth nearly 230 crores was broken,”
He closed his eyes, as if he was reliving everything in an instant.
“They refused in one line –
‘We don’t do business with scandals.’
Was my years of hard work so easily undone?”
Raina’s eyes were now moist.
But she still remained silent.
“What difference does it make to you?
You emerged as a news story and blew everything away.
Did you ever consider – how great the impact would be of what you said, showed, did?”
Raina’s Innocent Reaction – A Voice Emerging from Silence
Raina’s lips trembled now.
Slowly, very slowly, she said –
“I… I didn’t do anything deliberately…”
Akhil stepped back slightly and watched her quietly.
“I was scared. I was very scared.
I thought whether I say something or not…
Everything would go wrong. And… it did…”
Her voice was breaking. Every word was laced with fear and regret.
“I didn’t force anyone to give an interview… I… was just… alone.
So much happened all at once…”
She stopped herself before crying, but two large drops fell from her eyes onto the floor.
“I didn’t know this would all become so big.
Please… please leave… leave me alone…”
Akhil’s Broken Face – When Authority Too Tires
Akhil was watching her intently.
A deep conflict was raging within him.
His eyes still held hurt, but that hurt was now flowing not from anger, but from broken trust.
“You know, I never thought ill of you.
Nor did anything happen that night that the world is imagining.
But your silence… your silence…
That became the biggest statement…”
Raina was now hiding her face.
“Have you ever thought, if I were someone else –
Any powerful man –
Where could this silence of yours have taken you?”
He became completely quiet.
“Your fear, your story… are all your right.
But why should that story be written at the cost of someone else’s destruction?”
A Final Appeal – When Words Clash with Relationships
Raina (softly) –
“I truly didn’t know…
After what happened, I… I was just scared…”
“Truth doesn’t hide behind fear, Raina.
When truths are not spoken, lies are born.
And today, in every newspaper, every channel, every social media site…
My name is running with a lie – simply because you chose silence…”
He began to get up.
“I’ll leave you alone.
But remember –
If you ever gather the courage to speak,
Just say this much…
What happened that night – and what didn’t.
I will handle the rest.”
– With the Remaining Silence
Akhil walked out.
The same Range Rover on the street was waiting for his return.
Raina remained seated by the door –
Tired, broken,
But this time, her face held not just fear –
But also a question.
“Is it time now… for me to say something?”
Chapter: "Shadow Deal – When the Past Steals the Future"
Location: Rajvanshi Enterprises Head Office – Top Floor Conference Hall
Time: 10:15 AM
The room exuded an aura of prestige, with its expensive furniture, sparkling crystal chandeliers, and large photographs adorning the walls—pictures of the Rajvanshi family lineage, from ancestors to current business tycoons.
Seated at one end of the conference table was Yashvardhan Rajvanshi, past fifty-five, yet his voice retained a sharp, commanding resonance, like a sword. To his right sat his elder son, Ranvijay Rajvanshi—sharp, shrewd, and composed.
Facing them was the international team from "Orlink Group," with whom a multi-layered logistics deal worth approximately 800 crore had been under negotiation for months.
Meeting Start – Deal Preparation
Yashvardhan gently pushed aside a water glass and spoke, "So, Mr. Carlson, we trust you've thoroughly reviewed our proposal. You're already aware of Rajvanshi Enterprises' network and investment capacity..."
Carlson smiled. Seated with him were two women from his law firm and two Indian partners.
"Yes, Mr. Rajvanshi, your group's capability and history are indeed impressive… no doubt. However..." His tone paused abruptly.
Arjun narrowed his eyes, observing keenly.
"However?"
Carlson placed a black leather folder on the table.
"We had arranged an informal appointment from our team... but this morning, we were very distressed by something we saw."
Unveiling Layers – When a Storm Plays on the Screen
A member of Carlson's team played a video on a tablet.
It was the same footage – "Akhilesh Rajvanshi and a young woman in a hotel room..." The red breaking news ticker still flashed across the video.
A profound silence fell over the room.
Yashvardhan's face became rigid, as if all the air had been sucked out.
Arjun immediately leaned towards the table screen and said, "This is not relevant to this business discussion. My younger brother’s personal..."
"Exactly, Mr. Rajvanshi," Carlson interjected, "We are not judging you. But for us, image matters. And in international dealings, perception defines trust."
Deal Withdrawal – The First Wound of Humiliation
Carlson closed his diary and stated, "We are sorry, but under these volatile circumstances, our legal advisors have asked us to postpone — indefinitely — the deal."
"Postpone?!" Arjun's voice held both surprise and anger.
"Mr. Arjun," their lawyer chimed in, "There is no legal case against your brother yet, but what is circulating in the media is sufficient. Before providing logistics to a laundry brand, we must ensure our own image is clear."
Yashvardhan placed a hand on his chin and uttered a single word—
"Your decision?"
"Final."
With that, the Orlink Group team rose to leave. Their main assistant placed a paper on the table – the deal termination letter.
Silence and Embarrassment – Between Father and Son
They departed.
For a few moments, no one spoke.
Then, Arjun, gathering the files, said with irritation—
"This is all because of that girl, Papa. I told you before—keep Akhil on a tighter leash..."
"Silence!" Yashvardhan's voice echoed, trembling.
"When a son makes a toy out of the family's honor, the blame doesn't fall on anyone else, Arjun. We gave Akhil the freedom to fly—now his storm has swept everything away."
Arjun fell silent. Frustration still lingered on his face, but his father's words bowed his head.
Security Chief's Entry – Some New Information
Just then, the door opened.
"Sir!" The head of Rajvanshi Security entered, sweat on his brow.
"We've received information that some media personnel are lining up outside our company... and near our home... for live telecasts. And some page-three reporters have posted on social media... captions like 'The fall of the Rajvanshi empire has begun.'"
Yashvardhan closed his eyes.
He took a deep breath and said,
"Where is Akhil?"
"Sir... he hasn't met anyone today. Nor is he answering calls."
The Stirring of a Sinking Empire
Yashvardhan stood up and slowly walked towards a corner of the conference hall. There, on the wall, were family photographs—grandfather, his father, then himself, and now… Akhilesh's photograph.
He stared intently at it.
"No one thinks when making history—but only shame remains when it's erased."
His voice was weary.
Arjun's Anger – The Burden of Defamation
"Papa," Arjun said, "We need to issue a press statement now. We either defend Akhil or distance ourselves from him. Otherwise, other contracts will also slip away. I received a call from 'Zemes Tech' this evening. Their tone had changed..."
Yashvardhan spoke in a deep voice—
"Akhil must speak for himself. If he is innocent, let the truth come out. If not… then our silence will be our shield."
– In the Shadow of the Setting Sun
Evening began to descend.
The conference room was now empty, but the deal termination letter still lay on the table. Arjun stood by the window, watching the line of media vehicles below.
Screaming cameras outside, shattered self-respect within.
Will the Rajvanshi empire now remain silent?
Or is this silence the preparation for a storm?
"The Next Chess Piece – When the Rajvanshis Contemplate a Counter-Attack"
Location: Rajvanshi Enterprises, Chairman's Office – 12th Floor
Time: 1:05 PM
The city's intense sunlight filtered through the glass walls, spreading into the room, but the air within was thick with a heavy, somber atmosphere—as if an unseen shroud were floating in it.
Yashvardhan Rajvanshi sat in a serious posture behind his expensive Burma teak wood desk. To his right sat Arjun, and to his left, the company's Legal Head—Dhaval Mehta.
The room was closed, curtains drawn, and only two coffee cups remained on the table—one half-empty, the other untouched.
"This isn't just the deal that's broken," Arjun's voice was not loud, but his words were sharp as knives, "It's our prestige that's broken. And that too, in front of the media—the international press."
Dhaval cleared his throat and spoke softly, "We need to prepare a legal shield immediately. Whether Akhil is guilty or not, the videos circulating now do not appear to involve 'consent.' And if any party comes forward... and takes the matter to court, then..."
Yashvardhan interrupted him—
"First, find out how that video was leaked. There's a conspiracy against Akhil—and when conspiracies happen, there isn't just a pawn or a move—there's a full player behind it."
A New Apprehension – 'Insider Betrayal?'
"Sir," Arjun said softly, "We need to consider something—how was all this leaked so meticulously? That room was in a high-security hotel; how did CCTV or internal footage get out?"
Dhaval flipped through files and said, "I've sent a notice to the hotel. We spoke with their management team—the information so far is that an external camera was installed. But we suspect there could be an insider—someone who wants to bring down the Rajvanshi name."
Yashvardhan remained silent for a few moments. His fingers tapped softly on the table. Then he said—
"Sometimes the enemy is within the family."
Arjun suddenly raised his head. Disbelief flickered in his eyes—"You suspect me..."
"I suspect no one," Yashvardhan said, "I'm just saying—now everyone must be kept under suspicion."
New Plan – Response to the Press, Media Tactics
"What now?" Arjun asked directly, "If we remain silent, the media will consume us. And if we speak, Akhil's face will be exposed—perhaps forever."
Dhaval said, "We've spoken with our public relations agency, 'White Scale.' They have suggested a three-part response:
Internal Family Investigation — We will announce that we are conducting an investigation.
Restoration of Reputation — Yashvardhan Sir should give a video statement, speaking of Rajvanshi values.
Public Removal of Akhil — If he is shown to be off the board for a few days, the shock will be lessened."
Arjun exclaimed, "You mean we should throw our own brother away... offer him to the media?"
Yashvardhan said softly—
"If the Rajvanshi flag falls... no one will be able to lift it again, Arjun. We will all be crushed with it. If Akhil himself is innocent—he must come forward and fight. But for now... we need time. Removing him from the chessboard is not our move—it's our shield."
Arjun's gaze began to dim—
Akhil was a brother, but business doesn't run on blood.
Flashback – Akhil and His Deteriorating Path
In the silence of a few moments, the room's air seemed to unravel the threads of the past.
Yashvardhan said— "The first time he arranged that modeling event for money, I understood then that his direction was wrong. But Mother said—'He's a child, he'll mend his ways.'"
"He didn't mend," Arjun added in a cold voice, "He turned the Rajvanshi name into style and liquor. And now..."
"Now he is our biggest weakness."
Yashvardhan's eyes were now sharp. The shadow of an unyielding decision was clear on his face.
"But a weakness can be turned into a shield—if the move is right."
Knock on the Door – New Pawn Enters
Just then, there was a knock on the door.
"Sir," said the personal assistant, "Miss 'Anaya Singhal' is here—she claims she knows something about Akhilesh Sir."
Yashvardhan and Arjun were both startled.
"Who?"
"She says she's Akhil Sir's old friend... and she saw him last at the hotel this morning."
A ripple of activity went through the room.
"Send her in."
A few moments later, Anaya Singhal entered.
Around 26 years old, in a smart pantsuit, hair tied back, but her eyes conveyed something.
"Sir," she said, "I know I could either complicate your difficulties or ease them at this moment. I am not the girl in that video—but I know who she was, and who took her there."
Arjun immediately stood up, "What?"
Anaya placed an envelope on the table.
"This is another video from the same floor of the hotel—which clearly shows that the girl did not come on her own... she was sent by someone. And the name of that 'someone'... you might be shocked to hear it."
Yashvardhan picked up the envelope. As the video clip played, the lines on Arjun's face tightened.
The clip showed an old Rajvanshi House employee, 'Nagesh,' dropping the same young woman at the hotel.
Nagesh—who was once Arjun's personal secretary.
The Rajvanshi Eyes – No Longer Silent
Yashvardhan paused the video. The room's air had turned cold.
"This wasn't just a scandal. It was a conspiracy."
"And the response," Arjun said, "will not be in the press now—but on the playing field."
Yashvardhan said softly:
"Now it's the turn—of our next move."
– The Board Has Been Set
Outside, the media cameras were still flashing. But now, inside the Rajvanshi office, a new preparation had begun.
The moves on the chessboard were about to change.
Will Akhil get a chance to return?
Or will the Rajvanshi family continue to fight its own shadow?
And the biggest question—who made this move?
The Rajvanshi name will now demand answers.
Chapter – "The Sound of the Chain – When Courage Awakens Beyond Fear"
Location: Raina's House
Time: 8:47 PM
Silence seemed to seep through the cracks in the walls.
A slight flicker of electricity… and a momentary darkness filled the room.
Raina was still there – sitting on the floor by the door.
The marks of her fingernails were still imprinted on her palms – she had gripped herself tightly in her panic. But her eyes were no longer tired – there was a strange tension in them, as if something was boiling within.
Trrr...
Another knock – this time not a frantic pounding, nor a heavy blow. Just a cold, quiet knock.
Raina stood up. She walked slowly to the door. She looked through the peephole – the same face.
Akhilesh Rajvanshi.
But this time, he was alone.
She did not open the door. She just called out –
"What is left to say now?"
Akhil's voice:
"What you have hidden until now."
Raina was silent for a moment. Then she said –
"How many times have I told you – I haven't done anything?"
Akhil took a deep breath and pulled some pictures from his pocket.
He slid them through the crack in the door.
“Look at this. All these pictures, video clips, are circulating on news channels.
One gesture from you… has ruined my entire image. You haven't done anything? Then what is all this?”
Raina looked at the pictures – images of her frightened face captured in the flashing light of a camera… her silence… the bodyguards standing behind Akhil… and the false narrative being spun by the media.
She could no longer remain silent.
“You were the one who gave birth to my fear, Akhil. You surrounded me that night… your questions, your eyes… everything seemed ready to tear me apart.”
Akhil tried to push the door open slightly.
“I want to know the truth – and I will not back down now.”
Raina shouted –
“Back off! Don't come any closer!”
Her voice trembled, but this time there was a spark in it.
“If you take one more step towards me, I will call the police.
What do you think of yourself?
You are not God! You are just a man drunk on power!”
Akhil was slightly taken aback.
He had never seen Raina with such defiance before.
“How dare you?
When you know I am alone in the house, why did you come at this time?
You knocked on my door, scared me, threatened me… is this your truth?”
Akhil (seriously)
“I didn't come to scare you… I came to drag out the truth.
The day you stayed silent and brought me down in front of everyone, on that day you lost the right to expect any leniency from me.”
“So what will you do now?” Raina shrieked.
“Will you take revenge? Will you threaten me?
Then listen – my fear has died beneath your silence. What stands before you now is just me – a girl who was broken, but not destroyed!”
The air in the room froze.
Akhil's face was tense – tangled in anger, frustration, and confusion.
Then –
His phone rang.
He picked up the call, and his face became even sterner as he listened.
“Yes?”
(A voice came from the other side – a business associate or media manager.)
"Yes… I understand… No, no comments for now."
(A long pause)
"Alright. I'll handle everything myself."
He hung up the phone and looked at Raina – the fire was gone from his eyes, replaced by a defeated pride.
“This is my last warning, .
If you don't tell me what actually happened that night – I will do what you can't even imagine.”
“Whatever you have – your honor, your name, your college, your small career – I will expose it all.”
Raina stood firm – no longer scared, no longer trembling.
She said just one thing –
“Do what you can, Mr.
But I am also telling you one thing –
If you come to my door again without permission,
Or try to scare me like this one more time…
Then I will not just file a complaint with the police –
I will expose every lie of yours.
Then we'll see… who is ashamed – me, or you.”
Akhil was about to say something, but the resolve in Raina's eyes silenced him.
Akhil turned and said in a stern voice –
“I am giving you 24 hours.
If the truth doesn't come out by then –
Then all that will be left will be the ashes of your name, relationships, and honor.”
He walked out.
– When the silence within becomes a revolution
The door closed again.
Raina locked it with two locks –
Then slid the chain… and leaned against the wall.
Her breathing was rapid, but her eyes held a new light – not of fear, but of preparation.
She adjusted the dupatta draped over her shoulder.
Akhil's threat still echoed in her ears –
But within that echo was a new voice – her own.
“Enough is enough now.”
She turned and picked up an old diary from the room.
She slowly turned its pages… and then stopped at one place.
Where some names, dates, and small entries were written.
She looked… and whispered very softly –
“Now the truth must be told… because silence has become a burden on me.”
“A Hope – When Simplicity Stands at the Threshold of Dynasty”
It was around eight in the morning.
A faint sunlight had descended into the courtyard of the Rajvanshi mansion, shimmering like pearls on the marble floor. After the turmoil of the night, the mansion was somewhat quiet, but that peace was not real – like the silence before a storm.
Silence permeated the atmosphere, but then a steady sound was heard from the direction of the main door.
A young woman – dressed in a deep pink silk salwar suit, her hair neatly left open, the subtle jingle of bangles on her hands – slowly entered.
Behind her, servants followed, carrying the small luggage and gifts brought for her. The girl’s gait was composed, her face held a smile, and her eyes had depth.
She was – Shalini Verma. Akhilesh Rajvanshi's fiancée.
They had gotten engaged just four months ago – in a simple, yet deeply emotional ceremony. Shalini was the daughter of a reputed businessman from Mumbai and a software engineer herself. As beautiful as she was gentle, she possessed a sharp and quick mind. Her relationship with Akhil was traditional yet based on modern thinking – equality, trust, and a sense of belonging.
“Ramlal Kaka, where is Grandmother?” she asked with a smile.
“She is in her room, child. She hasn’t spoken much since morning, everyone is a bit… troubled,” Ramlal Kaka replied softly, then asked, “Have you eaten, child?”
“No, Kaka. I'll meet everyone first, then have tea. By the way, if I could get some cardamom tea, it would be wonderful,” she said with a smile.
Walking towards the hall, Shalini noticed – there was silence all around. She had quietly placed the gift bags she had brought for everyone on a table – beautifully labeled with everyone's name – a Kashmiri shawl for Grandmother, a classic watch for Grandfather, a replica of an old painting that he liked for Uncle Yashvardhan, and wellness kits for brothers Arjun and Raghav, and something for everyone else in the house.
“You brought all this?” – a voice came from behind.
Shalini turned and saw – Arjun standing there, looking tired, but with a question in his eyes.
“Yes, brother. I was supposed to come last night, but my flight was cancelled, so I caught the morning flight. And all this… I thought, for this special day, something memorable. But…” she paused.
“But today wasn't like that…” Arjun completed her unfinished sentence.
“Hmm.” Shalini nodded her head softly.
Arjun looked Shalini up and down – expensive clothes, but no ostentatious display. Gentleness on her face, and confident ease in her conversation. She was the same girl whom Akhil had once said – ‘Life will flow peacefully with her, even in storms.’
“Shall I order tea?” – Arjun asked suddenly.
“No, brother,” Shalini smiled, “I’ll make it myself in the kitchen, with Kaka. Besides, I really like the kitchen here – I haven’t forgotten Bantis’s aunt’s tamarind chutney.”
Arjun’s face relaxed a little.
“Shall I meet Grandmother?” she asked.
“Meet her. But if possible, don't ask too many questions.”
Shalini nodded slowly.
Her steps towards Grandmother's room were now a little slower.
She knocked on the door.
There was no response from inside.
She slowly opened the door.
Grandmother was sitting on the bed, her eyes vacant and in her hands, a childhood photo of Akhil.
“Grandmother…” Shalini called out softly.
Grandmother looked up and smiled faintly.
“You're here?”
“Yes, Grandmother… How is everyone?” – she asked, sitting down beside her.
“As you can see… the vibrancy of the mansion has been drained away, as if by someone.”
Shalini held her hand.
“Where is Akhil?”
“In his room… quietly.”
“Did he say anything?”
“Only that he is innocent. But child… nowadays people don't look for truth on camera, they look for gossip.”
Shalini said nothing for a moment.
Then she said, “Grandmother… sometimes the face of truth also looks like a question. But I know… a boy like Akhil could never do something like this. Neither your upbringing, nor his self-respect allows for such a thing.”
Grandmother’s eyes welled up.
“Go and meet Akhil. Perhaps he will say something to you.”
At that very moment, in the kitchen downstairs – Ramlal and Basanti were making tea.
“She is a very good girl, this Shalini,” Basanti muttered, “No tantrums, no artificial behavior. And look, Ramlal, she has brought gifts for everyone. Even when she herself is facing trouble.”
“Hmm,” Ramlal replied, “Where do you find girls like this these days? Humility in their eyes and dignity in their gait.”
“I am making cardamom tea – just as she likes it.”
“You are doing the right thing. Today, there is someone in this mansion who has not forgotten her manners.”
Meanwhile, Shalini was now slowly making her way towards Akhil's room.
Her face still held the same composure – no suspicion, no fear, just a hope that the person she knows cannot be proven wrong.
As she reached the door, she gave a very gentle knock…
Chapter: "Straight Talk on Truth – When Relationships Question"
Location: Rajvanshi Haveli, Guest Room
Time: 1:40 PM
A soft light permeated the guest room of Rajvanshi Haveli. Light floral curtains swayed in the sunlight filtering through the window, and a gentle peace prevailed within—no noise, no rush.
There were two girls in the room—Shalini, and seated opposite her, Chanchal, Akhilesh's younger sister.
Chanchal was a law student in college, but she had always been a rather serious and deep-thinking girl. Her relationship with Shalini was more than just a sister-in-law dynamic—they had been like friends since childhood.
Today, however, the circumstances were different. Relationships weren't as simple anymore, nor were conversations.
Chanchal picked up a glass of water and offered it to Shalini—
"Drink this. You haven't eaten properly since morning. Mother also asked, but you came straight to the room."
Shalini took the glass with a slight smile, took two sips, and said softly—
"I am hungry, Chanchal... but perhaps today, the truth feels heavier than hunger."
Chanchal remained silent for a few moments. Then she said gently—
"Did brother say anything?"
Shalini shook her head—
"Nothing. He's just quiet. And that silence... says everything."
Chanchal got up from her seat and moved to the window. She looked outside for a while, then said—
"You know, don't you, Shalini... Akhil bhaiya isn't like that."
Shalini didn't reply immediately. She just slowly turned her bangles. Then she said—
"I know. Perhaps that's why I'm still here. Otherwise, what has come to light could have broken anyone's trust."
Chanchal turned, and there was a hint of weariness in her eyes.
"Sometimes I think, how quickly the world makes judgments. Just one picture, one video, one headline—and everything is decided."
"Yes. And a person who has been building their identity for years is brought down in an instant," Shalini said softly.
Chanchal now sat back on the bed.
"Honestly, Shalini... I am scared. For my brother, for my family."
"Are you afraid of what people will say?" Shalini asked directly, her gaze steady.
"No. I'm afraid that if the truth... turns out to be something else entirely, I will never be able to forgive myself."
Chanchal's voice trembled.
"Do you think... Akhil is lying?"
Shalini asked this question very clearly, but with deep sensitivity behind it.
Chanchal was silent for a moment. Then she said—
"I know brother is short-tempered, a bit aggressive too... but something like this? No, I don't think so. Still... all of this is so strange that sometimes I feel like questioning myself."
"Questioning isn't wrong, Chanchal," Shalini said.
"It's wrong when we stop looking for answers out of fear."
Chanchal looked towards Siya.
"How are you enduring all this so peacefully?"
Shalini thought for a while. Then she said—
"Perhaps because I love him. And in love, the first duty is this—don't break trust easily. But also don't hold onto trust blindly."
"Meaning?"
"Meaning—I know what kind of person Akhil is. But I also know that people don't always remain who they are perceived to be. Sometimes circumstances, sometimes pain, or some unspoken fear—compels them to do things they wouldn't want to do themselves."
Chanchal's eyes welled up.
"And what if brother is indeed hiding something?"
"Then he will tell me—that's what I hope for. And if he doesn't, even then... I won't remain silent."
"Shalini... what do you want to do?"
Shalini took a deep breath.
"I just want to know the truth. I don't need to save Akhil, nor to bring him down. But if someone has dragged his name through the mud, lied, then that should also come out. And if a mistake was indeed made, then the apology should be sincere—not a defense filled with arrogance."
Chanchal bowed her head.
"I wish... the men in our house could think this way."
Shalini didn't smile—but a calm light flickered in her eyes.
"Thinking isn't a compulsion for girls, Chanchal. It's our strength. You also think—not just to uphold the relationship, but also to understand yourself."
"Will you be able to forgive brother, if something wrong comes out?"
"Yes, if he speaks the truth—and the truth isn't just what he did... the truth is why he did it, and what he is willing to do now."
Silence descended in the room for a while. The sunlight outside the window had become a bit brighter. The light filtering through the curtains fell on Siya's face—there was no fear in it, no pretense.
"Shalini," Chanchal said suddenly, "do you think you can bring about the change Akhil needs in his life?"
Shalini said in a very calm tone—
"I cannot bring about any change, Chanchal. But if a person wants to change themselves, I won't let go of their hand."
A faint smile touched Chanchal's lips—tired, but genuine.
"You are very different, Shalini. Perhaps that's why brother always felt a sense of trust in you."
Shalini replied in a very measured voice—
"Now that trust is being tested—and I won't let myself fall this time."
The room's clock chimed to mark two o'clock.
Chanchal got up and said—
"Come, I'll get you some coffee. And yes... grandmother said you are to stay here—but separate from brother's room."
Shalini nodded.
"Alright. Some distance is necessary—until the truth comes out."
Both girls were now leaving the room—one with a measured step, the other with questions in her mind.
But they shared one thing between them—a simple search for the truth.
"The Silence of Trust – When Love Repeats Its Promise"
Location: Rajvanshi Haveli – First Floor, Guest Room
Time: 3:20 PM
Shalini adjusted her light pink satin dupatta on her shoulder and stood by the window. Below in the garden, amidst the flowers, the sunlight spread out, making the old glow of the haveli's walls seem a little dim. Perhaps because something inside the house felt extinguished—the light of relationships, the warmth of trust.
The room's door was gently knocked.
"Come in," Shalini said without turning.
Chanchal entered, a coffee tray in her hands—two beautiful mugs, along with snacks, and a napkin.
"You know, you are not a guest in this haveli, right?" Chanchal said, placing the tray on the table.
Shalini smiled, but there was no playfulness in her smile today—just a slight weariness.
"I know, that's why I came into your room without asking," Chanchal said, and both laughed—a soft, very simple, but real laugh.
Chanchal handed Shalini a mug.
"Less cardamom, more coffee—just how you like it."
"You still pay attention?" Shalini asked softly.
"I don't pay... I've learned."
Both took a sip of coffee. Silence fell in the room for a while—the kind of silence that doesn't create distance, but intimacy.
"So, how long have you known... how did you find out about all this that's happening?" Chanchal asked gently.
Shalini traced a small line on the steam from the mug with her fingers, then looked—Sanjana's eyes held worry, confusion, and a silent fear.
"As soon as I landed at the airport last night... I received a message on my phone—about Akhil. After that, I turned on the channels... and then I couldn't understand anything. I didn't think anything, I just took the first flight in the morning and came here."
"Have you spoken to brother yet?"
"No. Not yet. But I have been talking for a long time—within myself, with my faith."
Chanchal looked with a questioning gaze.
Shalini took a deep breath. Then she spoke in a very slow and clear voice—
"I love Akhil very much, Chanchal. And not just in the name of a beautiful relationship... but for a way of thinking, for the soul of that person."
Chanchal asked softly, "Even if he has really done something, will you always love and trust him like this?"
Shalini paused for a moment, then replied in a very measured voice—
"Then I will ask him 'Why did you do it?'... But I won't leave. I told you before, it's not that easy to leave someone. Not loving someone is still easy, but loving and sustaining that love is very difficult."
Then a composed smile returned to her face.
"But I know... he hasn't done anything wrong. The straightforwardness in his eyes, the harshness on the outside, hides an inner innocence. I have never seen him disrespect anyone—neither with his words, nor with his gaze. He might be short-tempered, he might be stubborn, but he is not cruel."
Chanchal was now watching Shalini intently. There was a hint of moisture in her eyes.
"I am afraid, Shalini... that this world believes what it sees. Here, whoever shouts the loudest is heard the most."
"I know everything very well," Shalini said.
"But this time, the one who has seen the truth will be silent. And I will be the voice—because I am no longer just his fiancée, but also his friend. His faith."
Chanchal extended her hand towards Shalini—Shalini took it.
"You are very strong, Di."
"No, Chanchal. I just believe love is strong. And what I feel for Akhil isn't just an emotion—it's a decision. I didn't decide to love him when everything was easy... rather, I have made this decision again now—when everything is difficult."
"Did you ever tell him all this?"
"There was no need to say it. He understands... but perhaps today it will have to be said. So that when he feels alone, my words echo within him."
Chanchal nodded.
"Shalini... if you wish, should I call Akhil?"
Shalini smiled and shook her head no.
"Not now. When he wants to be alone to understand himself, let him be alone. But yes... when he is ready, tell him that I am waiting for him—without any questions."
The coffee cups in the room were now empty, but the warmth of their conversation had lightened both their hearts.
As Chanchal got up, she said—
"Seeing you, Di, it feels like no matter what scatters, if there is such faith together... everything can be managed."
Shalini said from behind—
"This is love, Chanchal. It is what joins, even when breaking apart... and it is what holds steady, even when faltering."
But love's promise is now steadfast.
Chapter: Layers Unfold – When Silence Bears Witness
It was precisely nine in the morning.
A red banner flashed repeatedly on the TV screen—
"Breaking News: Serious allegations against Akhilesh, heir to the Rajvanshi family – video goes viral showing him threatening a young woman!"
Every news channel, every mobile screen, every social media story—the same video, the same voice, the same face.
And in that video—Akhil, standing in front of Raina's house. Angry, imposing, with an air of authority.
And Raina—scared, trembling, silent.
The camera angle wasn't perfectly clear, but it was sharp enough to read the expressions on their faces.
And there is no greater evidence than expressions.
The Storm Within the Family
The drawing-room of the Rajvanshi mansion now echoed with the sound of the TV—
but this sound was not of information, but of shock.
Mother came out from the kitchen, her teacup trembling in her hand.
"What… what are they showing on TV?"
Yashvardhan folded the newspaper and stared intently at the TV.
The news anchor's voice boomed from the TV—
"The Rajvanshi family's image is once again embroiled in a new controversy. The viral video clearly shows Akhilesh attempting to intimidate a young woman. No official statement has been released by either party yet…"
Grandfather's eyes filled with deep anger.
"We always taught him that respect comes first… but now our respect is being trampled in the mud!"
Grandmother, who had been silent until now, said softly—
"But is this the truth, or a conspiracy?"
Arjun picked up his mobile and froze the moment he opened Twitter—
"#AkhileshRajvanshiExposed is trending at the top.
This video is circulating everywhere."
Raghav, who was ready for college, dropped his bag and sat down—
"Bro… this is madness! Did we ever imagine our family name would be tarnished like this?"
Just then—
A faint sound came from the upper floor.
Shalini's Entry – With Silent Footsteps
Slow footsteps followed one after another down the stairs.
It was Shalini.
She hadn't asked anyone anything as she came down.
She had only heard a slight commotion as she left her room—and then she came downstairs.
Wrapped in a silky blue salwar suit, the sleepiness was evident on her face.
But her eyes were now clearing rapidly—as if every frame was jolting her.
She came down and looked directly at the TV screen.
There was her fiancé—Akhil—full of anger, standing in front of someone's door.
The TV voice blared—
"Now your silence has become testimony against me!"
Shalini's eyes widened.
A stillness came over her face, and her breath seemed to be caught.
She couldn't speak—neither asked anyone, nor said anything.
She just walked over and plopped onto a chair.
Every frame, every second on TV—was shattering the layers within her.
Raina's Silence – Within and Without
Meanwhile, Raina sat alone in her room.
Messages, notifications, countless calls on her mobile… all were coming in incessantly.
"Will you hold a press conference?"
"Did you file an FIR?"
"How was this video leaked?"
"What do you want now?"
Raina wasn't answering any of them—she was just reading.
And thinking—
"I didn't make this video…
So then… how did it get out?"
There was no fear on her face anymore.
Her eyes were vacant, but a spark flickered within them.
She wanted to know—who did all this? And why?
The Media Frenzy – When Every Word Becomes a Weapon
Discussions had already begun in the media studios.
"Was this just a relationship that ended badly?"
"Or a misuse of power, now coming to light?"
"Will Akhilesh Rajvanshi be acquitted, simply because he is a 'Rajvanshi'?"
Every show, every debate, fingers were pointing at Akhil.
Every newspaper headline read—
"Allegations against Rajvanshi Heir – Bullying or Conspiracy?"
Shalini's Reaction – When the Foundation of Trust Begins to Shake
Shalini picked up the remote and turned up the TV volume.
On another channel, the video was now being shown in slow motion—
Raina's eyes, her fear, her recoiling.
Akhil's image—growing increasingly blurred.
The remote slipped from Shalini's hand.
Her ring suddenly felt like a burden.
She remembered—
"Raina? Who is this girl, have we met before?"
If Akhil didn't know her, how did he end up at her house?
Then why all this?
Was it truly a conspiracy?
Or was the lie of love—being exposed by the truth today?
Introspection – When Love Becomes a Question
Shalini got up and stood in the middle of the hall.
"Mom… are you all watching this?"
There was a strange moisture in her voice.
There was no reply—just some downcast gazes, some silent faces.
Shalini looked at each person.
Then she went and sat beside Grandmother.
"Grandmother… when there is fear in a girl's eyes—is that fear false?"
Grandmother's eyes welled up, but she held Shalini's hand.
As if conveying everything with a single gesture.
Shalini quietly moved towards her room—
But now every step was in search of an answer.
And meanwhile… the TV was still on in the house.
Every scene—a question.
Every frame—a wound.
Time: Approximately 6:30 PM
The day had waned, but there was no evening cheer in the mansion's hall. The curtains were half-open, the outside gloom had spread indoors, and every face, lost in that gloom, sat tiredly, searching for an answer.
The TV was off, but the room's air was still charged—as if the debates were still echoing within the walls.
Shalini sat beside Grandmother. Yashvardhan sat silently in the chair opposite. Arjun and Raghav both sat silently, heads bowed over their phones. Everyone knew—this silence was no ordinary silence.
Then…
There was a knock at the door.
In a well-tailored coat and trousers, with sharp eyes and a composed demeanor, he entered—Raman Bhatnagar.
A long-time friend of the Rajvanshi family, from their father's generation. A capable lawyer and diplomat, whose voice always carried the depth of patience.
"Greetings," he said upon entering, "I've come uninvited, but seeing the circumstances, I felt… I couldn't remain silent."
Yashvardhan and Arjun both stood up.
"Raman… you're here?" Yashvardhan's voice held both surprise and relief.
Raman didn't smile, but his gaze swept across the room. He saw the news clippings on the table—printouts of the viral video, copies of media headlines, and Shalini's vacant eyes.
"I've seen everything," he said, "and heard it too—as much as is echoing outside. But now is the time… to talk about what's happening within."
✦ Talk of Trust – When Every Word Feels Like Straw
Raman slowly sat down on the sofa, right in the middle.
"Arjun, Raghav, you two sit. I haven't come here to hear accusations, explanations, or apologies."
He looked at the remote lying on the table, then pointed towards it—
"Keep the TV off. What's happening is being presented like a 'story'. But this is not a story… it's a ploy."
Everyone was silent.
Grandmother asked softly, "A ploy? Whose?"
Raman's face hardened—
"I don't know yet. But one thing is certain—this video was leaked with planning. This is not just an attempt to tarnish Akhil, but the entire Rajvanshi name."
Shalini broke her silence—
"But if the girl is unknown, then why such a big drama?"
Raman looked at her—
"That's precisely why… the question arises. No one writes a screenplay of such serious accusations without a motive. This isn't about emotions, it's about intent. And intent… is never alone."
✦ Shadows of Doubt – When Conspiracy Peeks Through the Mist
Raman took a small notebook from his pocket.
"Since this morning, I've had every number, every account, and every public post related to this video scanned. The first trend that started on Twitter came from an unknown name—'@JusticeForReina24'."
"Raina?" Shalini exclaimed.
"Yes," Raman nodded, "the same girl's name. But the Twitter account was created two days ago. And within the first 10 minutes, there were over 30,000 retweets—this cannot be natural."
"So this isn't public sympathy…?" Arjun asked.
"This is professional spin. Money has been invested. The intention is clear—degrade Akhil's image, and shake the entire family's backbone."
✦ Not Doubt, But Patience is Needed
Grandmother was still perplexed.
"But how will all this be proven? And should… should we just sit quietly?"
Raman did something that resembled a smile for the first time.
"We won't. But we will speak only when every word stands like evidence. I've only come to tell you that this fight is no longer about honor, but about truth—and I will get to the layers behind it."
"How long?" Raghav asked—his voice held youthful impatience.
Raman looked into his eyes—
"As long as it takes to forge a true name, it also takes to protect it."
✦ Raina – Still Mute
Throughout this entire time, there was no mention of Raina filing an FIR or what she wanted next.
It was just certain—she hadn't leaked the video.
But she hadn't denied it either.
Raman paused, looked at everyone, and then said—
"I will talk to the girl as well. But before that… I need to meet Akhil."
Shalini said softly—
"He's not here. And… he himself doesn't know if he knows that girl or not."
Raman was silent for a moment.
Then, getting up, he said—
"Sometimes, what we don't think we've done, defines us the most."
✦ Knock of the End – Layers Have Unfolded, But Not the Verdict
Raman reached the door, but stopped and said—
"All of you just remember this—this is not just a video. This is targeted politics of the system. I will turn this around. And I will bring not just Akhil, but this family—back to where it used to be."
"Why?" Yashvardhan asked—"Why are you doing so much?"
Raman turned, and for the first time, spoke with a touch of affection—
"Because you are my brother. And your son—whatever he may be, should not be alone at this time."
✦ The Final Scene
The door closed.
The room fell silent again.
But now this silence was not bearing witness—
It was preparing.
For a battle, that was now going to be not just about defense, but a war to unveil every layer of the conspiracy.
Chapter – “Small Conversations, Deep Truths”
The room was dimly lit. The sunlight filtering through the light blue curtains had mellowed, and the melancholy of evening had spread into every corner. The room's decor had a vintage charm – a wooden wardrobe, brass figurines, and pictures of Akhil from his childhood hanging on the wall. Looking at those pictures, anyone could tell – this child must have once been the apple of his mother’s eye.
Akhil’s mother, Sumitra Devi, sat silently in a chair near the window. Her face was tired, but her eyes still held the sparkle born from experience and struggles. On the table before her lay half-finished tulsi water, untouched for who knew how long.
There was a soft knock at the door.
Shalini entered, her head bowed. Her steps were slow as she entered the room, as if she were walking on unfamiliar ground.
"Come in," Sumitra Devi said in a calm voice.
Shalini gently pulled a chair and sat opposite her.
A few moments of silence passed. The stillness was so profound that the ticking of the wall clock sounded like a mighty, mountain river.
Sumitra Devi looked directly at her for the first time.
"You know, Shalini," she began, "when a family's name is reflected more in its deeds than in its tongue… that name is proudly repeated for generations."
Shalini’s eyes lifted. She listened attentively, but didn’t dare to say anything.
"Akhil…" Sumitra Devi's voice grew slightly heavy, "what he did… it didn't just shake the walls of our home; it eroded people's trust."
Shalini looked into her eyes. There were no tears, but the depth of emotion was like an ancient pain quietly seeping out without words.
"I gave him good values. I never expected that he would…" she paused and took a deep breath, "that he would tarnish our name."
Shalini gently reached out and took her palm. "Aunty… judging a person is the hardest thing. We are all fighting our own battles. Some are breaking from within, some from outside."
Sumitra Devi looked at her. For a moment, her words seemed to bring a sense of peace.
"But Shalini," she continued, "is it right for the son of a family, whose every action is in everyone's eyes, to stray from the path?"
"No, it's not right," Shalini said, shaking her head. "But perhaps something within him broke that he never told anyone. We can't always get to the root of everything, but perhaps… it's time we understood not just the mistake, but the reason."
Another pause settled in the room.
Sumitra Devi now rose from her chair and stood by the window. She slightly drew back the curtain and looked outside – as if the old days had once again descended before her eyes.
"When Akhil was small," she began speaking without turning, "there was a different sparkle in his eyes. He always used to ask, ‘Mom, will I ever become a great man like my grandfather?’"
A faint smile touched Shalini’s lips – a smile that offered a taste of hope amidst bitterness.
"He must have tried to become great too, Aunty… perhaps he just couldn’t find the right path," Shalini said.
"Path!" Sumitra Devi turned. "Everyone finds a path, Shalini. The difference is that some walk straight through thorns, while others get lost even on a path strewn with flowers."
Her voice was no longer sharp, but it held a pang – a mother’s pang.
Shalini moved closer and stood beside her. "Your anger is justified. But right now, more than anger, we need understanding. Akhil is not alone… he must be broken himself right now."
There was moisture in Sumitra Devi's eyes. She looked at Shalini and said in a low voice, "Do you still trust him?"
Shalini remained silent for a moment. Then she slowly said, "I trust myself, Aunty… and that trust includes him."
Silence filled the room. Somewhere far outside, a bird chirped.
Sumitra Devi held her hand. "It is people like you, Shalini, who save the foundation of relationships."
"Don't worry," Shalini said softly, "everything will be alright. Perhaps not now, but gradually… just as old wounds heal… this time will also pass."
"But what will people say?" The same worry returned to Sumitra Devi’s voice.
"People say what they see. We have to show them – who we truly are. We are not a broken family, Aunty… we are trying to come together again."
Sumitra Devi twisted the edge of her sari with her fingers and said, "I am afraid, Shalini. I am afraid that Akhil's darkness will engulf us all."
Shalini leaned towards her and said, "If we are afraid of the darkness, how will we light the lamp, Aunty? I am here. And as long as I am here, I will keep trying to bring this home back together. You are not alone."
These words hung in the air of the room. Outside, the darkness was deepening, but inside the room, a soft, warm light had appeared.
Sumitra Devi slowly nodded. With her trembling hands, she stroked Shalini’s head – as if a tired soul, weary for years, had found support.
"You are not my daughter-in-law, Shalini," she said. "You are the true daughter of this house."
Shalini’s eyes welled up. But this time, the tears were not of pain, but of the belonging that she had only received in an incomplete form until now.
Akhil’s picture lay on the table, still in the same place, but his eyes still held the same question – Will I be able to return home?
And Shalini had perhaps answered that question – Yes, if someone is waiting for you… you can never be lost.
“The Burden of Relationships, The Light of Love”
Time had stopped in the room. The darkness outside had begun to knock on the windowpane, but inside there was a gentle warmth, which came not from any lamp, nor from any heater – it was born from Shalini’s words, which had provided solace to Sumitra Devi’s tired soul for a while.
They were both standing by the window now. Sumitra Devi’s fingers were still wrapped around the edge of her sari – as if some inner anxiety was gripping her mind. After a moment of silence, she looked at Shalini.
“Shalini…” her voice was very low and trembling, “Will you… will you break your relationship with Akhil?”
Shalini was not startled, but her breath hitched slightly. She looked into Sumitra Devi’s eyes – there was less questioning, more fear. It was the same fear a mother has when she knows her son has gone down the wrong path… and perhaps no one will be with him anymore.
Shalini asked in a soft voice, “Are you asking me this because you think… I am weak?”
Sumitra Devi lowered her head in silence. “No… absolutely not,” she said. “But when everything is falling apart, I just want to know… are you still with Akhil? Or has your heart… also started to move away?”
Shalini remained silent for a few moments. Then she took a deep breath and said, “I would have left, Aunty… if my relationship was based only on good times.”
Sumitra Devi looked at her, a flicker of hope igniting in her eyes.
“I love Akhil,” Shalini said clearly. “And it’s not an ordinary, casual, filmy love, Aunty. This is the love that connects with a person’s soul. It stays with them in their goodness, and doesn't let go of their hand even in their darkness.”
Her voice was steady, but her eyes were moist.
“I know,” Shalini continued, “that he has done many wrong things. But I cannot see him only through his mistakes. I also see everything that he doesn’t show to the world – the broken child within him, his confusion, and the struggles he has never put into words.”
Sumitra Devi’s eyes welled up. She said in a low voice, “How did you become so deeply connected to him, Shalini? When he himself couldn’t understand himself… how did you know that there was still something good left in him?”
Shalini smiled – it was a tired but genuine smile.
“Because when you truly love someone,” she said, “you don’t just want them when they are perfect. You hold onto them even when they are breaking, when even their shadow becomes frightening.”
She paused slightly, then continued – “I have recognized Akhil in his silences. What he doesn't say, I can hear. And I know, no matter how much darkness there is, he can never become completely bad.”
Sumitra Devi’s eyes overflowed. She held Shalini’s hand and said in a choked voice, “Your age is young, but your heart… is very big. Perhaps bigger than mine.”
“No Aunty,” Shalini said softly, “mothers’ hearts are never small. You still love Akhil just as much, it’s just fear that is keeping you away from that love.”
Tears flowed from Sumitra Devi’s eyes.
“I blame myself every day,” she said, “I think about where I went wrong. I wish I could understand when he became so lonely…”
Shalini held her palm with both her hands. “We all falter somewhere. But a mistake doesn’t mean everything is over. There is still time…”
“Will he come back, Shalini?” her voice trembled. “Will you bring him back?”
Shalini looked deeply into her eyes and said, “He will return, Aunty. But not when we blame him… but when we make him realize that we are waiting for his return.”
For a few moments, a strange mixture of moisture and warmth filled the room. A gust of wind blew outside, and the curtains rustled slightly. The scene seemed to say – the beginning of change had begun.
Sumitra Devi looked at the childhood picture of Akhil kept nearby. She gazed at it for a while. Then she turned to Shalini and said, “If you ever feel your resolve wavering, if you ever feel that everything is tiring… come to me. I will never leave you alone.”
Tears streamed from Shalini’s eyes. “It is in these words of yours that home resides, Aunty.”
Then they both stood by the window – two women, two generations, but bound by the same thread – of love and trust.
After a while, Sumitra Devi said, “Tomorrow morning, come with me for the puja. I will light a lamp for Akhil. Perhaps our prayer… will become some light on his path.”
Shalini bowed her head and said, “Certainly. Together, we will bring him back.”
Outside, the night had fully descended, but inside that room, a new dawn was ready to be born – the beginning of mending the cracks in relationships… with the light of love.
Chapter – “Silences That Scream”
The room was quiet, perhaps too much so.
In the light of the yellow bulb, shadows danced on the walls—as if the walls themselves were silently feeling the storm within him. Occasionally, a car would pass outside, but within the room, everything was still. As if life had stopped breathing.
Shalini sat on the bed. Her phone lay on the table in front of her—her eyes kept darting to the screen, and each time, she was met with disappointment.
She picked up the phone once more.
“Akhil…”
Her lips merely whispered the name, but the courage to make the call came only after a moment’s pause.
She saw the name on the screen—Akhil Calling…
No, it was just her imagination. In reality, the screen remained as silent as Akhil’s own presence.
Shalini dialed with trembling hands. The second, third, fourth time…
“Switched off…”
The same reply. The same merciless voice that sliced through emotions without any semblance of politeness.
Putting the phone down, she said to herself—
“Where are you, Akhil? At this moment, when everything is falling apart… when a voice, an answer, even a single breath is needed… you are nowhere. Why?”
She leaned her head back and looked at the ceiling.
“I can understand you wanting to escape… but at least you could have told me. Am I no longer a part of your troubles?”
Her voice trembled.
“Everyone might see me in a thousand ways—someone’s daughter-in-law, someone’s daughter, someone’s responsibility… but only you saw me for who I truly was. And now… when I’m trying to be that person… why aren’t you here?”
She wrapped the quilt around her feet, but the chill seemed to have settled deep within her.
“You must think I’m strong. Perhaps that’s why you didn’t say anything. But didn’t you know that even strong people sometimes just want an arm—someone to hold them, without saying a word?”
She picked up the phone again, this time just staring at the call logs. The same three calls glowed on the screen—cold, colorless, bearing the label “No Answer.”
“Your phone is off… or perhaps you turned it off deliberately? Am I still in a space where you want to let anyone in?”
Moisture began to gather in her eyes—a moisture that made no noise, but slowly drowned the heart.
“Aunty was asking if I would break ties with you… but she doesn’t know that to break ties, two people need to move apart. I am still here, Akhil… in the very place you first saw me—closest to your trust.”
She stood up and walked to the window. Pulling aside the curtains, she peered outside. She couldn’t see anything in the darkness, but her gaze was searching for that one figure—which had perhaps been lost far away, in a shadow.
“You once told me… that as long as you were alive, you would hide nothing from me. Was that promise so easy to break?”
She shook her head—as if wanting to blow that thought away, but how easily does the heart comply?
Just then, the phone rang.
Startled, she looked— “Papa Calling…”
For a moment, her hand trembled. Her heart sank.
As soon as she picked up the phone, her voice carried a feigned calmness. She was quiet—or perhaps trying to appear so.
As soon as the call ended, she sat down, taking a long breath. There was no clear expression on her face, but much emerged in her eyes.
“Papa also found out… He didn’t say much, just asked if I was alright. He comforted me, without asking questions. I don’t know what kind of world this is—where those we don’t expect from are the ones who support us first… and those we share everything with, they disappear.”
She rested her head on her knees, closing her eyes.
“I wish you could understand, Akhil, that this isn’t just your crisis… it’s ours. You can hide from everyone, but why from me? Do you still think your pain is only yours? Have you considered me so much of an outsider?”
The ticking of the clock echoed in the room.
“I have endured everything, Akhil. Those words, that melted like lead into my ears… those questions that tore through my soul. But still, I didn’t blame you. Because I chose you—with full awareness, with complete trust.”
Her eyes were now flowing—silently, like a storm flowing beneath the earth.
“I know you are alone. But Akhil, was it necessary to leave me alone too? Is this what true love is—leaving one to burn while the other hides in the shade?”
She looked at the phone screen again. Still nothing.
“No message… no call… nothing.”
She leaned back against the headboard and closed her eyes.
“Perhaps I should stop hoping. But… I can’t. Because the love within me… it doesn’t fight you, it just waits.”
Slowly, her breaths deepened—as if fatigue had finally taken her in its embrace.
But sleep was not easy. Somewhere within, she was still awake—waiting for that one call, that one name, that one message…
Akhil’s.
“Unfinished Table, Unfinished Thoughts”
The office cabin, covered by light gray curtains, was completely silent. Inside, only the faint hum of the AC and the subtle beeping of the laptop could be heard.
Akhil sat in his cabin chair. The laptop was open in front of him, emails opening, closing, and replies being typed one after another.
His posture was upright, but Akhil’s body was slightly hunched, both elbows resting on the table. His fingers moved effortlessly on the keyboard—like a machine that knows its commands and executes them.
An Excel sheet was open:
“Q4 Projection Review | Internal Summary Draft 2.3”
Akhil’s gaze remained fixed on the screen without blinking. His hands had already entered some data in cell A7. Now he was updating the auto-sum and formulas from B7 to E7.
To his right was a coffee mug—half-filled, with no steam. Perhaps leftover from the morning. But he had no time to drink it.
The phone lay on the table, its screen flashing repeatedly. A notification once popped up:
“7 Missed Calls – Shalini”
Akhil’s eyes did fall on it, but he showed no reaction.
No mental turmoil, no distraction. His face remained steady—professional, controlled, neutral.
He refocused on the laptop.
Now he was opening an email:
“RE: Financial Report Cross-Verification (Internal Audit)”
His fingers moved swiftly.
Dear Mr. Rana,
Please find the attached review report of last quarter's financial deviations. I’ve marked areas of concern and compiled probable response templates based on the earlier audit discussion.
Let me know if you'd like to set up a pre-legal review meet before the board session.
After pressing the send button, he opened two more emails. He attached a PDF to one, and a slide presentation to the other.
Gradually, the office cabin transformed into a world of documents and data.
He had a time slot for every task in his mind. Final draft of the report before 3:00 PM, board call at 3:30 PM, and meeting in the lobby in the evening.
There was fatigue in his body, but his mind refused to stop.
He took a file from the office folder—filled with yellow sticky notes. He removed the notes one by one, and ticked off each section.
Sometimes he adjusted a graph, sometimes he rephrased a statement. His eyes never left the screen. Nor did any emotion surface on his face.
This was Akhil, trying to fit himself within the system, rising above emotions.
Occasionally, Shalini’s name would reappear in the corner of the screen—
Missed Call – Shalini
But he had learned to ignore it.
The phone lay aside, as if he were deliberately maintaining distance. He neither read the message nor called back.
He opened an email on the laptop once more—
To: Legal Team
Subject: Final Notes for Contract Review
Attached are the pending contract details for Vendor #29B. Points marked in yellow require legal rewording. Please ensure that the clauses under IP protection are solid before external discussion.
Another email was sent.
The office clock struck three. Akhil logged in on the screen without looking—clicked on the video call link and put on his earbuds.
The air in the cabin now felt not just cold, but heavy.
But there was no impediment in Akhil’s breathing. He neither stopped nor paused. He just kept moving forward—like a machine that doesn’t know how to stop.
As he sat down, his gaze fell on a notebook lying on the table. He opened it, and it read:
“To-Do List”
Audit Draft Final
Cross-check Fund Movement
Vendor Contracts - Final Notes
Shalini...?
He crossed out the last line with his pen as soon as he reached it. No comment, no thought. Just a line, and then its end.
The Touch of Ending:
The day was drawing to a close. There were faint shadows in the cabin now. He closed the laptop, and for a moment, rested his head on the table.
No thoughts. No memories.
Just exhaustion.
And then he slowly opened his eyes and turned the laptop back on.
“One more email left…”
His lips murmured.
Chapter – "One House, One Decision"
The pale rays of the afternoon sun were descending through the large glass windows of the mansion's grand hall. The curtains swayed gently, and the ticking of the clock became more pronounced – as if each second was pushing them towards a decision.
In the center of the hall stood a long wooden table. On one side sat Akhil's grandfather – Vijay Pratap Rajvanshi, in a dark brown coat and white pants, spectacles on his eyes, and the depth of wrinkles on his forehead. Beside him was Grandmother – Suman Devi, who was quietly turning her rudraksha beads.
On the other side, Akhil's father Yashvardhan, mother Sumitra, elder brother Arjun, younger brother Raghav, sister Chanchal, and some household staff – Ramu Kaka, Maya Didi, and Mohan – all stood in a tense silence. Only the sound of the clock and the rustling of the wind could be heard.
Yashvardhan finally broke the silence, his voice tired but resolute:
“We can’t delay any longer. What Akhil has done… or what has happened, whether it's entirely his fault or not, its impact has been felt by the entire family. It is now our responsibility to prevent the name from falling further.”
Grandfather took a deep breath and said, “Not just the name… this has now become a fight for existence. Those who bowed before us for years are now questioning us behind our backs.”
Sumitra’s eyes welled up, but she wiped them with the edge of her sari. She said softly, “Akhil isn’t saying anything… he’s not coming home, not picking up the phone. He’s trying to handle everything alone. But we can’t remain silent.”
Arjun, who had been silent until now, stood up straight. He was always calm, but today there was unusual restlessness in his eyes:
“I say we must issue a public statement. What’s being aired in the media is taking advantage of our silence. If we remain quiet now, tomorrow this mansion itself will be under scrutiny.”
Raghav, the youngest, who had been scrolling on his mobile until now, suddenly spoke, “Brother is right. It’s like a court is running on social media. Some are calling us a ‘scam family,’ others ‘exploiters of the system.’”
Chanchal, who could never hide her emotions, said angrily, “But doesn’t Akhil Bhaiya know how much this is hurting us? Has he ever thought about the impact on Papa’s business? The school’s name is being tarnished. Mom’s NGO donors have started backing out.”
Grandmother gently placed her beads down and said, “Everything is falling apart… the family and trust too. But this is a time for fighting, not for giving up.”
Grandfather nodded at Grandmother’s words. Then he said, “So the decision is whether we consider Akhil separate from this matter and move forward, or stand united with him but with a very clear strategy.”
An awkward silence fell over the hall for a few moments.
Ramu Kaka, who had been with the family since childhood, said, “Sir, I have seen Akhil Babu very closely. He is not wrong, but he hides everything alone. Perhaps he has lost faith that anyone will understand.”
Maya Didi, who was always close to the women of the house, said softly, “But now the women of the house are also broken. Sumitra has lost her sleep at night.”
Chanchal lowered her head, Raghav turned off his mobile screen.
Then Arjun spoke, “We must make a clear decision. Either we hold a family press conference clarifying that the company’s decisions will be made by the board and the family will not interfere. Or we bring Akhil back, clear everything, and support him collectively – but his every action will also be our responsibility.”
Grandfather had been silent until now, but his voice deepened:
“If the family’s blood starts to falter, then the walls of reputation cannot stand. Akhil is the son of this family, no matter how big a mistake he makes. But support should not be blind – he too must come forward and take responsibility.”
Sumitra’s voice trembled, “I cannot see my son break. But I also don’t want my daughter and sons to bow their heads in society.”
Raghav slowly stepped forward and said, “We should call Bhaiya, but this time we must not leave him alone. If we are united from within, then let the outside world say whatever they want.”
Chanchal gently held her mother’s hand, “We are all tired, Mom. But we are not broken. Just make the decision now – what do we do?”
Grandfather listened to everyone, and then said, “So it is decided… three days. In the next three days, we will talk openly with Akhil. We will ask for his explanation, but with love. And after that, we will issue a statement on behalf of the family.”
Arjun added, “And let’s also start the transition process in the company. If necessary, I will temporarily take the lead, until things become clear.”
Grandmother said as she rose, “Until the people of the house themselves do not break, no wall can fall. Now staying united is our only strength.”
The Shadow of the End:
As soon as the meeting ended, all the members rose from their places. Some with lighter hearts, some heavier.
No one asked for tea, no one turned on the TV.
All they knew was – within three days, a truth had to be revealed, and on that depended the honor of this family and Akhil’s future.
"The Shield of Words – When Silence Must Become an Answer"
It was the second watch of the night. The atmosphere of the mansion was still shrouded in the same tension – the room where the entire family had sat a few hours ago now had only the faint sound of the TV and some remote clicks. But in stark contrast to that noise, the grandfather’s private chamber, located in the right corner of the mansion, was immersed in a different silence.
The room was made of dark wood – a bookshelf filled with old books, an old painting of a Maharaja on the wall, and a deep leather chair behind a large table. There sat Grandfather – Akhil’s father. On the table before him were two empty tea cups, a sealed envelope, and a notepad.
There was a soft knock at the door.
“Come in, Raman…”
Raman entered, opening the door – a lawyer – in a blue shirt, black trousers, and a briefcase in hand. His face was serious, his gait steady, and the shrewdness of old politics was still in his eyes.
As he entered, he closed the door himself – it was a habit of his to keep any unnecessary third ear out.
“Sit,” Grandfather gestured towards a chair.
Raman sat down. Without preamble, he asked, “Have you decided?”
Yashvardhan took a deep breath, then said, “I have thought a lot, but now it’s time to speak. And before that… there is an important task remaining.”
Raman didn’t seem surprised, but nodded seriously, “Whatever you say, I will get that work done. But you know, after that, the game will be completely revealed. One mistake and then…”
“The game never stopped, Raman. We are just pulling it to our side now.” Yashvardhan’s voice was cold and controlled.
“And the press?”
“In two days,” Yashvardhan stated clearly, “we will invite the entire Mumbai media. But only I, Arjun, and you will be on the stage. No one else.”
“And Akhil?”
Yashvardhan’s face froze. For a moment, a slight tremor passed through his eyes, but he controlled his words.
“Not yet. When the time comes, he too will stand. But for now, not even his shadow should be on the stage.”
Raman nodded. He opened his briefcase, took out some papers, and placed them on the table.
“Here are some drafts – legal statements, protection clauses, and even a power of attorney, in case we need to get a ‘preventive stay’…”
Yashvardhan glanced at all the papers without reading them.
“For now, only this is decided – we will show the face of the truth, but we will decide what that face will be.”
There was silence in the room for a while. The clock struck midnight. Yashvardhan wrote a note in a file – sealed it in the envelope and handed it to Raman.
“Don’t show this to anyone. And start the work I asked you to do from tomorrow morning.”
Raman took the envelope, placed it in his briefcase without asking any questions, and stood up.
“We could lose everything, Yashvardhan ji…”
Yashvardhan said with a smile, “Or we could save everything.”
Raman bowed his head and quietly exited the room.
Two Days Later – Press Conference Day
Mumbai, Taj Palace Hotel’s grand conference hall – white curtains, three chairs on the stage in front, a microphone, and a large screen behind with ‘Singh Group – Official Statement’ glowing.
In the front row were chairs for various media houses. All major news channels, and dozens of YouTube journalists – cameras, phones, live streaming – all ready.
At 3:00 PM – Yashvardhan enters the stage, accompanied by Anirudh Singh and lawyer Raman Mehra.
The entire hall filled with the sound of clicking cameras and hushed whispers.
But the faces of these three were completely calm.
Yashvardhan came to the microphone, took out a sheet of paper. He paused for a moment and looked at the cameras – those eyes that held the fire of rumors, and were today seeking an answer.
“Thank you all for being present here today on this important occasion…”
“…What we are about to say today is for the honor, truth, and protection of trust of this family…”
The entire press hall fell silent.
“…But before this press conference, we have taken an important step. A step whose information cannot be disclosed at this moment…”
Now the camera flashes intensified.
“…But this much is certain – this country, this media, and all of you will be shown the documents that have been hidden until now. And after that, we will hold another press conference – where every question will be answered…”
Arjun then took the microphone and spoke just one sentence:
“We will not let our name be erased. But to save it, we must first endure some truth. And that truth is not far away now.”
Raman, the lawyer, now came to the microphone. His voice was clear and professional:
“We just have to say this – the legal process has begun, some names will come out soon. But until then, we will not be part of any speculation or accusation.”
There was commotion in the press hall now. Cameras were being turned off, reporters were taking notes, but no one stayed on the stage to answer questions.
The three rose and left.
At the same time – The Mansion’s Hall
In the mansion’s hall, the entire family was sitting in front of the TV. Grandmother was turning her beads, Chanchal’s hands were trembling, Sumitra glanced at Akhil’s photograph – and then held her daughter’s hand.
“So this was the preparation…” Arjun’s voice echoed from the TV.
Raghav slightly increased the TV’s volume. The silence now felt like the calm before a storm.
Chapter – "The Shadow of Allegations – When Every Answer Becomes a Wall"
Taj Palace, Mumbai – It was four in the afternoon. The press conference hall was buzzing with activity. Journalists from all the leading media houses of the country were seated in front, and cameras were fixed on the stage.
Yashvardhan Rajvanshi stood at the center of the stage, Akhil's father—somber, yet composed in a deep navy blue bandhgala coat. Seated beside him was Arjun Rajvanshi—Akhil's elder brother, who wore a dark brown coat, but his face today gleamed with a touch of sternness.
The microphone placed in the middle was slowly slid towards them.
Yashvardhan Rajvanshi began speaking without a script, without any papers.
"We are not standing here today for a defense... rather, we are here to give voice to the truth."
"For the past few days, what has been circulating in the media in our son Akhil's name is merely an incomplete book written with the ink of rumors."
"We want to say— whatever is being alleged against Akhil is a lie. The mud being slung at our family's name is just a conspiracy— a calculated attempt to tarnish our legacy."
There was a stir in the hall. The flashes of cameras intensified.
Now Arjun Rajvanshi picked up the microphone.
"Our family has been in the service of society for centuries. The storm of accusations being created against my brother has neither been proven in court nor by any impartial investigation."
"It is easy to twist and present any video clip. But we believe in the law, and in the thinking of this country— which states that until proven guilty, no one is a criminal."
A reporter raised their hand, their voice loud: "But Yashvardhan sahib, the pictures and clips going viral on social media clearly show that the matter is serious. Are you saying all this is fake?"
Yashvardhan replied without hesitation: "We are saying— the truth of those pictures is not one-sided. What you are seeing is just one angle. And we will soon present that second angle before the court."
Arjun now leaned forward slightly and said: "We know that a girl is a part of this story. We are not ignoring her pain. But we are also saying that when the truth comes out, the layers of real responsibility will be revealed."
Now, under the glare of the cameras, another face shone— Neera Malhotra, a senior reporter from a major news channel.
She stood up and asked a direct question: "You repeatedly say that your son is innocent. But what about the clips where the girl is crying, saying she is ruined— is that also a conspiracy?"
"And the most important question— do you want anyone to marry her even in this condition? What about her?"
Silence fell.
This question was not just a question; it was a hammer— striking directly at the credibility placed on the stage.
Yashvardhan took a deep breath, his face steady.
"We are not lying. Nor are we saying that what happened was entirely right. Humans make mistakes, and if any mistake has been made— then a response will be given. But... it is important to hear someone's side before destroying them."
The reporters' agitation intensified.
From below, a voice came again— a sharp journalist from a YouTube channel said irritably: "The truth is that all of you are lying. You are misleading the entire world to save your son. And the girl? Her life is ruined. No one will even marry her!"
The hall went quiet for a moment.
Arjun Rajvanshi's fingers clenched into fists. But he picked up the microphone.
It was as if breaths were held in the room. The camera lights were still on, but the intensity of the questions had now reached a new turning point.
A young reporter, overcome with emotion, suddenly stood up and said—
"You say Akhil is innocent... but what about the girl this happened to? Her life is ruined. Who will marry her now?"
Silence fell again in the hall.
Several reporters began typing with their heads bowed. Some looked at each other, as if reconfirming the question to themselves.
Arjun's face, standing on the stage, became stern for a moment, then a hint of moisture appeared in his eyes— perhaps not of shame, but of right.
He slowly picked up the microphone.
"You are right. Perhaps no one will marry that girl now..."
A stir began in front of the stage.
"...And they shouldn't!"
Now everyone looked at him in shock.
After a pause of a few seconds, he spoke again—
A commotion began in front of the stage.
"...and should not!"
Now everyone stared at him in shock.
After a few seconds of silence, he said again—
"Because it is not necessary that someone else marries that girl. Because she is now the daughter-in-law of this house!"
The hall trembled as if with an electric current.
Several reporters stood up at once, the barrage of questions was about to begin.
"What do you mean?"
"Are you joking?"
"Did you just say that Akhil married that girl?"
Yashvardhan leaned towards the microphone. His face had the composure of old royalty, but his eyes now held a tempest.
"You people might not believe it... but what should have happened has happened."
He took out a thick brown folder from his bag and opened it on the table in front of him. The camera lenses turned towards it.
There was a stamped legal document. The frame read—
"Registration of Marriage – Shri Akhil Rajvanshi and Kumari Raina Sharma"
Date – April 21, 2025
Place – Civil Marriage Registrar, Mumbai"
A journalist read in surprise:
"Raina...!"
Arjun leaned into the microphone and said—
"Yes. Akhil and Raina are married. And she is now a part of our family."
"Our son will not shy away from his responsibility under any circumstances. And this decision was taken with the full consent of Akhil and our family, not under any pressure or fear."
At that moment – the mansion hall
The same scene was being broadcast live on the TV screen.
The teacup fell from Grandma's hands. Chanchal's mouth remained agape.
Akhil's mother closed her eyes—as if she wanted to shut out the world for a while.
The house servant stood with his hand over his mouth—as if he couldn't believe it.
"When... when did this marriage happen?" Grandfather's voice, usually so calm, carried a sharp edge for the first time in years.
Akhil's aunt—standing nearby, quietly said,
"This decision was perhaps made earlier... but it has now come out in the open."
Meanwhile – Akhil's office
On the 18th floor of a Mumbai corporate office, Akhil Singh had just come out of a meeting in a glass cabin.
His mobile phone vibrated incessantly.
"What's going on out there, man?" he asked the peon, who nodded nervously.
"Sir, you see for yourself..." he gestured towards the TV.
The TV was showing a breaking news report:
"Exclusive: Akhil Singh was already married to the mysterious girl Raina Sharma! Family reveals during press conference!"
Akhil froze. For a moment, he felt as if the ground beneath him was shaking. He gripped the chair with his hand.
"Raina...? What is this...?"
His eyes were fixed on the screen. His brother's voice echoed:
"We are not ashamed—we are responsible."
Rajvanshi Mansion,
Shalini, she was also there, sitting in the living room where the whole family was watching TV together.
Her face was stern, then she looked at Akhil's mother with questioning eyes.
Shalini—she seemed to have turned into stone. Her face had gone pale.
As soon as she heard Raina's name, she lowered her head.
The same question revolved in her mind—
"This relationship can never be."
Shalini remained silent. Her eyes were wet.
Press Conference – Outside the Media Hall
Now the reporters were boiling with anger. The channels' headlines flashed in the scroll:
"Explosion due to marriage – Akhil secretly married Raina!"
The reporters were talking amongst themselves—
"Was this a legal ploy?"
"Did the family adopt a defensive strategy?"
"Or... is this a true relationship?"
Press Conference Hall – Yashvardhan Rajvanshi's final statement
When all the questions subsided, Yashvardhan picked up the microphone for the last time and said:
"We know this will shock everyone. But sometimes, peace of the soul is more important than societal questions."
"Akhil and Raina's marriage was a wise decision. And if anyone has an objection to it—we are prepared to answer that too... but first, understand humanity."
Chapter: "The Signature – When Conspiracy Lies Behind Customs"
– Akhil’s Office Cabin
Outside, the evening clouds were leaning towards the sea. But the storm within Akhil’s mind was far deeper.
The TV was still on in the corner of the cabin. On the screen, a news anchor was excitedly announcing that Akhil and Raina Sharma’s marriage had already been registered.
“Marriage…?” Akhil asked himself, as if questioning his own existence.
He stood up from his chair, on his knees, and then sat back down. His fingers tangled in his hair, the lines of worry deepening on his forehead.
“I didn’t get married… I don’t remember…”
His mind raced backward, sifting through every moment where this trap could have begun. Then, suddenly—
A memory flashed like lightning.
[Flashback – The Previous Day, The Same Office Cabin]
“Akhil, these are some important documents.”
Arjun sat opposite him in a chair, holding a black leather folder.
“What are they?” Akhil asked nonchalantly.
“Just legal formalities. Your signature is needed on a couple of company contracts. And yes, there are also papers related to some family investments.”
Akhil picked up a pen with a smile.
“Brother, I trust you blindly.”
“That’s exactly why I’m here…” Arjun replied, laughing.
Akhil opened the folder – there were four or five pages. One document in the middle was in English, but without reading many words, he signed it as well.
Arjun quickly closed the folder and said,
“Your signature looks very beautiful… Well, I’ll leave now, Mom must be waiting!”
[Back to Present – Akhil’s Face Grim]
“No… no… were those papers…?”
Akhil stood up. A suspicion began to deepen in his mind.
He immediately opened his desk drawer, trying to see if the folder was perhaps there, but it wasn't.
Then his hand moved towards the company’s scanned record system.
“If it was a legal document, it must have been scanned…”
On the computer screen, he rapidly searched through folder numbers and scan records from the last 48 hours. After a few minutes – his fingers froze.
Folder: “Family Confidential – Form A1”
Document Title: “Marriage Registration Document – Under Special Marriage Act”
Partners: Mr. Akhil Rajvenshi & Ms. Rena Sh…”
“NO…”
Akhil’s breath hitched. His name and Raina’s name were clearly written. Below, two signatures – one of them was his.
His hands trembled.
“I’ve been deceived…? What kind of joke is this?”
He read the document completely – the language was complex, but the meaning was clear.
This wasn’t a “formality” – it was a valid marriage registration form, which he had signed himself, believing it to be some corporate paper.
[Trembling Memories – From Suspicion to Truth]
Akhil was now in front of the washroom mirror – the color had drained from his face.
“So, brother… took my signature for my own marriage…? And I signed without even looking?”
Another memory surfaced – two days earlier, his mother had suddenly said:
“Akhil, from now on, whatever decision you make… think carefully, because the responsibility of this family’s name is now on your shoulders…”
Did everyone know…?
Were his parents, his brother – all involved in this game?
Or… was this just a brother’s trick? Arjun’s alone?
[Akhil Leaves His Office]
Akhil walked out of his office with slow steps.
His staff saw a mixture of anger, apprehension, and rage on his face – but no one dared to ask anything.
He immediately got into his car and drove off.
[On the Other Side – Rajvanshi Mansion]
The atmosphere in the house was tense. Everyone was still reeling from the impact of the press conference.
Chanchal said to her mother—
“Mom… did brother know this marriage had happened?”
Sumitra did not reply – she just kept looking out the window silently.
[Shalini’s House – 9 PM]
The news was still playing on the TV. Shalini was quietly in her room. Her phone kept ringing, but she didn't answer anyone.
A question was on her mind—
“Did Akhil know…? Or was he also used?”
Shalini now felt cheated – but the pain was that Akhil had kept all this hidden from her.
[Final Scene – In Akhil's Car]
Akhil was now sitting in the car – alone.
The emptiness of the highway ahead and the restlessness within him felt the same.
He took out his phone and dialed his brother Arjun's number.
"Brother, what were those papers...?"
"The ones I signed..."
There was a few seconds of silence from the other end.
Then Arjun's voice came –
"I've done what's best for you, Akhil. It was all for the honor of your name."
"I've saved you – by taking responsibility for a girl... who is now your wife."
A strange smile appeared on Akhil's face – a smile caught between pain and anger.
"Brother... you haven't saved me – you've tied me down."
"Now this game will cost you dearly too."
Location: Rajvanshi Mansion, 10:45 PM
The sky above the city, shrouded in darkness, was as clouded as Akhil's mind. As his car arrived, the two guards outside the mansion stood at attention, but Akhil's eyes looked no less than a storm.
Without saying a word to anyone, he walked towards the main door of the mansion with quick steps. His gait was fueled by anger, and his face bore a silence as if everything inside had burned down.
His entry into the hall was like a lone warrior stepping onto a battlefield.
Hall – Where Everyone Was Silent
Grandfather was on his wooden swing, his face calm but stern.
Yashvardhan sat beside him with folded hands, a shadow of regret on his forehead.
Mother sat with her eyes downcast, silent.
Arjun, who had been the most vocal until now, stood by the wall.
Chanchal, seated on the sofa, said nothing, but her face clearly indicated that a storm was brewing.
And then—
*Thud!*
Akhil slammed his bag onto the drawing-room side table with full force.
"Who was it that made the biggest decision of my life in my name...?"
Silence.
"Who was it that got me married to someone else without my consent, in my name? And that too to that girl... whom I..."
His words got stuck in his throat, but his face was still burning with anger.
"What did you think, brother?"
He now walked directly towards Arjun, step by step.
"What did you think, that you did a great deed?"
Arjun took a deep breath.
"Akhil... my intentions weren't bad—"
"So is getting me married without my consent your 'intention'? Or a conspiracy?"
"I didn't conspire!" Arjun said, his voice rising slightly.
"I only did what Papa and Grandfather wanted. And this decision wasn't made suddenly. It was..."
"Shut up!" Akhil's voice now echoed in the room like a sword.
"Don't try to explain to me what was right. I hate that girl. I don't want to see her... and you people..."
His eyes now turned towards Grandfather—
"You too?"
Grandfather finally looked up for the first time – his voice was low but clear.
"Akhil, the honor of the family is greater than any relationship. And this relationship can now clear our name."
"Name?" Akhil laughed – a bitter, echoing laugh.
"You people are mad after the name. And my life? My will? Do they all mean nothing?"
Mother said softly, "Son, that girl's condition also..."
"Mom!"
Akhil raised his hand to stop her.
"I have no interest in that girl's condition, what it is, what happened, why it happened – none of it. And now that you all have taken over my life, don't pretend to sympathize with me."
A moment of silence.
Arjun now stepped forward slowly and said:
"Brother, we all know you are angry. But this marriage was just a legal step. It will save your name, the media will be quiet—"
"Save my name?"
Akhil's eyes now bored into Arjun's face.
"And when I deny this relationship, then what will you all save?"
"When I say that I signed the papers under duress, then whose name will you save?"
A fine line of sweat now appeared on everyone's face.
Yashvardhan
Father now got up himself and said:
"Akhil, we made this decision for your betterment. That girl—"
"I have nothing to do with that girl!"
Akhil was now looking at the entire room like a fire.
"My life is not a movie where Papa, brother, and Grandfather will write the script!"
"This is all... this is all forced. It's a deception. And I will never accept it."
The Last Word Before the Storm
Arjun said tiredly:
"Brother... meet Raina once. See her, understand her. Maybe—"
"Never."
Akhil's voice was now as cold as iron.
"I don't want to meet her, I don't want to see her, and I don't accept her in my life. And remember, this is my final word."
He turned and looked at the entire hall one last time—
"After what you all have done behind my back, I cannot trust any of you now."
– Akhil heads towards his room.
His steps were heavy as he walked towards his room, but his eyes were red with anger.
In the hall behind, everyone was stunned.
Today, for the first time, Akhil stood before that family as a stranger – for the family that had always called him "Akhil Rajvanshi – the heir," but perhaps had never understood him as "Akhil – a human being."
Akhil finally took a deep breath and said:
"Shalini..."
It was the first time he had spoken her name. Very softly. As if each letter carried a weary soul.
"I don't know... what to do. Everything... seems to have gone out of control. I've become a stranger in my own home."
Shalini squeezed his hand tighter.
"But you are with me. And this is your home too, Akhil. I don't want to be a part of this house, but a part of your heart."
An Emotional Pause
For a few moments, only the sound of their breathing filled the air. Even the air seemed to have stilled.
Akhil now gently took her hand in his. His eyes were still filled with anger, but there was also a weariness, a human brokenness in them.
He was about to say something, but didn't.
He just looked into Shalini's eyes, very slowly, very deeply, and said:
"Don't worry..."
"I will always be yours."
Shalini's Reaction
Shalini's face suddenly became a confluence of tears and smiles.
She took a deep breath and simply nodded – as if saying everything without uttering a word.
Akhil's Departure
Akhil gently released her hands, moved away from the window, and walked towards his coat.
"But now... I need some time. To fight with myself... to understand the truth."
He walked towards the door.
Shalini wanted to say something, but stopped herself. Only one thing was on her face now – trust.
Without looking back, Akhil opened the door and went out.
Silence and Hope Left in the Room
The room was once again steeped in silence. But now there was a new warmth in the air – like a wound being bandaged for the first time.
Shalini stood there, in the spot where Akhil had stood last. She closed her eyes and said to herself:
"He is mine... and will remain so... no matter how difficult the path."
"The Color of Madness – When Love Touches the Limits of Illusion"
The door had closed.
Akhil was gone.
But what was left behind was not just Shalini. What remained was a paused madness – outwardly quiet, but internally like a fierce storm.
Shalini was still standing in the same spot – where Akhil had held her hands a while ago and said:
"I will always be yours."
There was a faint smile on her lips – but it wasn't the smile of love…
It was a smile perched on the edge of deep faith and an unknown madness.
Shalini's Inner Echo
She slowly raised her head, as if looking at the sky and saying something.
"You've left, Akhil. But your promise is with me..."
She whispered.
Then her eyes sparkled deeply. She walked towards the bed and began to touch the pillow on which Akhil had perhaps once rested his head.
"This pillow also knows... the warmth of your breath. And now... now you are mine."
She clutched the pillow tightly in her arms.
The Beginning of Self-Deception
Shalini now began to pace around the room, her every step having a strange speed. As if she was moving faster than her thoughts.
"Everyone says... this marriage is fake. It's only on paper," she said to herself. "Alright then... I'll make it real. I'll live it. This marriage to Akhil will remain only on paper... I'll make it a part of my breath."
Old Memories and a Deep Plan
She suddenly stopped. Her gaze fell on a photo frame on the table in front of her, which showed her and Akhil standing together at a college event. Akhil was laughing, and Shalini was looking at him — her eyes filled with true love.
"Do you remember, Akhil?" she whispered. "You said that day, you had never connected with anyone like that. It was just me... just me."
She kissed the photo and said softly: "Then now, no Raina, no false law, no brother, no media... nothing can stop me."
Her eyes were now frozen. "I've become your wife – whether the law says so or not."
The Room's Ambiance and Her Changing Mood
The room still had a faint glow, but Shalini turned off the table lamp. The entire room plunged into darkness. She slowly sat down on the bed and began to look at old pictures of Akhil on her phone. She gazed at each picture as if it were a prayer. As if there was a soul in it. As if each photo was fulfilling a promise.
"I love every shadow of yours, Akhil..." "Your anger... your silence... even your lies."
Change in Tone – When Love Transforms into Determination
She suddenly stood up. She went in front of the mirror and looked at herself. "Shalini..." she said to herself, "It's time to prove your love. What everyone said was false... make it true. Be the woman whom no one can remove from Akhil's life."
She looked at herself in the mirror — her face no longer had innocent love, but a reflection of determination.
The Arrival of a Servant and a Strange Reaction
Just then, there was a gentle knock on the door. It was a servant, Savitri. "Madam ji, are you okay?" Shalini looked at her for a few moments. Then, smiling softly, she said: "I'm very fine, Savitri. Very fine. And you know why?" Savitri remained silent. "Because I'm the daughter-in-law of this house now. Will you all call me the daughter-in-law?" Savitri got nervous. "Yes… certainly…" "And now, don't mention Raina or anything. What happened... is just on paper now. I've become... the queen of this mansion."
Savitri quickly bowed and left — fear in her eyes.
Inner Silence – When Madness Gradually Increases
After the door closed, Shalini slowly clenched something in her palm – it was Akhil's bracelet, which he had left there by mistake one day. Pressing it tightly in her palm, she said: "I can do anything... Akhil. I just don't want to lose you."
Her face was now calm. As if the foundation of a big plan had been laid in her mind.
— A Hint of a New Direction
Shalini now lay on the bed, the bracelet in her hand, eyes closed. But her face no longer had the innocent love of a girlfriend. There was now an obsession. A deep, well-planned... villainous obsession, which smiles but seems like the calm before a storm.
✦ Chapter: “The Rajvanshi's Warning – When Rebellion Dawns in a Son’s Eyes”
Location: Rajvanshi Mansion – Arjun’s Room
Time: 10:00 PM
The room door burst open with a bang.
Akhil, in his charcoal black pants and white shirt, entered like lightning. His face was tense with anger, his eyes like embers, his breathing rapid.
Arjun, who was flipping through some documents at his desk at the time, paused for a moment. But he showed no haste. He stood up from his chair and faced him.
"Why?" Akhil's voice ripped through the room, "How could you people do this to me? A court marriage? To an unknown girl? And that too in my name—my life?"
Arjun took a deep breath, but his face was composed.
"She isn't unknown, Akhil. Raina Sharma is now your wife—legally, and as the daughter-in-law of this family."
"You did all this without my consent!" Akhil advanced towards him, a storm in his eyes, "You passed judgment on my life—as if I am a slave in some bygone era's principality!"
"This is not slavery, it is responsibility," Arjun's tone was still measured, "and you will have to fulfill it, whether you like it or not."
"You don't know the pain I'm living in!" Akhil's voice trembled, "Raina is not a simple girl—I don't want her, she has tarnished my name. And you people have bound her to my name?"
"Yes, perhaps. But she was giving us a scare—the media, society, and the lies you spread… which could have destroyed our reputation any day."
"So, you people made a cunning girl your shield?" Akhil's face tightened.
Arjun now stood directly in front of him—their eyes locked.
"That girl never asked anything from you herself, Akhil. But you gave her a lot without being asked—your glances, your infamy, your rumors. And when the situation got out of hand, we had to include her in the honor of this house."
"This isn't honor, Arjun, it's just a facade!" Akhil's voice began to crack.
"Then were your drunken nights real?" Arjun's voice was sharp, "Or those pictures, that footage with Raina—which were all over the internet? Were they real or a facade?"
Akhil fell silent for a moment. Perhaps his tongue failed him.
"Do you think you are alone?" Arjun said, pausing his voice, "We also break, Akhil. But we don't abandon responsibilities. You are the name of this family—every action of yours is not just yours, it shakes the foundation of our parents.
"Then why didn't you say it openly? Why were my signatures obtained deceitfully?" Akhil's voice quivered.
Arjun's eyes lowered, but his words remained strong.
"Because at that time, there was no other way. If we had waited another day—the police, the media, and public scandal—everything would have brought down the foundation of this mansion. And along with you, the family would have been wiped out—like a mistake that is never spoken of."
"You kept me in the dark," Akhil said, barely restraining his anger, "I am not an object, Arjun."
"You never were," Arjun's voice softened slightly for the first time, "but sometimes we become strict with our loved ones to save them from their own mistakes."
Akhil took a few steps back and said—
"And that girl? Has she also become our compulsion?"
"She was an opportunity, Akhil. A new beginning. If you wish, you can understand her, feel her. She is not afraid of your capabilities—she is scared of your anger. But behind that fear, there is also hope. Perhaps she can make you better."
"I am not anyone's project!" Akhil roared, "I am not worth improving, nor am I meant to fit into your created structure."
"Then break everything," Arjun said bluntly, "But remember one thing—you are not just connected by your name, but by the foundation of this family. If you fall, much will break—not just yours, but many others'."
Akhil fell silent. But the old resentment remained in his eyes.
"Is this the truth?" he said softly, "That my life is no longer my own?"
"No, Akhil. Your life is now connected to many lives. That girl is also included—whom you don't even want to see, but who is getting recognition by your name."
"She has received a burden, not recognition," Akhil whispered.
"Perhaps. But sometimes, by carrying a burden, a person becomes strong themselves," Arjun said softly.
Silence hung in the room for a few moments.
Then Akhil took a deep breath and turned towards the door.
"One last thing," he said, "The more you bind me—the more I will rebel. I will uncover the truth behind this name. You think the mansion walls are silent—but every brick knows something."
Arjun paused for a moment.
"What are you going to do?"
Akhil turned. There was a silent smile on his face—but it was a smile filled with fire.
"This time I won't turn to ashes, Arjun… This time, I will become the fire myself."
The door opened… and Akhil was leaving with quick strides.
Leaving behind Arjun—and the walls, which were now echoing the same warning.
"I will become the fire myself…"
Akhil was about to exit the door when he suddenly stopped. His breathing was rapid, but there was a silent battle going on in his eyes.
Arjun was still standing there, his back straight, his eyes serious.
Akhil slowly turned, and then, with firm steps, returned and stood before his brother.
"Listen to one more thing, Arjun," Akhil's voice was cold—but beneath it lay a hidden fire that even the mansion walls could sense, "I will make that girl's life a living hell. She snatched my life… now I will fill her every breath with suffering."
Arjun looked into his eyes without blinking.
"Do what you want," he said in a measured tone, "But remember, Akhil… whatever you do, do it within the walls of this mansion. The outside world should not get even a hint of this game."
"I don't believe in facades."
Arjun looked into his eyes without blinking.
"Do what you want," he said in a restrained voice, "but remember, Akhil… whatever you do, do it within the walls of this mansion. The outside world shouldn't get even a whiff of this game."
"I don't believe in appearances."
"But the honor of this family rests on your pretense," Arjun replied. "If the media even suspects that this marriage is just a sham… or that you're mistreating your wife… then what we've managed so far will also crumble."
Akhil's face hardened further.
"You people have become her protectors!" he said with a bitter laugh. "So much pain for a stranger girl… And me? I'm like a pawn – moved forward or discarded anytime."
"Your relationship with that girl is no longer just a social contract, Akhil," Arjun said softly. "She is now the daughter-in-law of this house. Your wife."
"Wife?" Akhil burst into loud laughter. "I don't even remember her face to this day… it was just a file – where my signatures were taken. Now she's living by my name… but I won't let her live."
Arjun remained silent for a few moments. Then he said—
"If you think you'll win by breaking her, you're gravely mistaken."
"I'm not interested in winning," Akhil's voice trembled. "I just want to see her fall… to see that fear in her eyes that fills me. I want to give her all the pain that I have endured without reason."
"Whatever you endured was because of you, Akhil. No one forced you to drink. No one forced you to run away."
"What came to me was poison—now I will make someone else drink it, sip by sip."
Arjun moved forward now. There was a hard glint in his eyes.
"Then pour it," he said. "Destroy that girl if that's your obsession. But remember, this mansion is your refuge—and these walls are your witnesses. If you cross the line, no one will come to save you—not me, not Papa."
"I don't need anyone," Akhil muttered.
"Perhaps not," Arjun said in a serious tone, "but no one lives alone in this mansion. Not with hate, nor with love. Here, every relationship either binds you… or buries you."
"So you want me to tolerate her? To pretend to be a husband and live with her?" Akhil's voice was heavy.
"No. I want you to compose yourself before you try to break her. Because you yourself have become a falling building."
"I haven't fallen, Arjun," Akhil retorted, "I've just stopped. I will walk again—but this time my steps will spare no one."
"Then walk. But tread carefully," Arjun was now looking towards the door. "Hurting Raina might be your decision, but if her suffering reaches a third party… then the foundation of this Rajvanshi mansion will not hold."
Akhil looked at Arjun—silently, for a long time.
"I won't create any public drama," he said. "Whatever I do, I will do within these walls. But this much is certain… that girl will one day say that death is easier than living with me."
"Then do it," Arjun said, as if putting a final seal. "But remember one thing, Akhil— the more you bring her down, the more you will fall yourself. And when you fall… no hand will reach out."
"I won't need it," Akhil said, "because by then I will have brought everything down."
Between the two of them, there was now only the sound of breathing. The room had become heavy. The darkness seemed even denser.
Then, suddenly, Arjun turned his head and said in a low voice—
"If you ever see truth in that girl's eyes… you might start hating yourself."
Akhil's gaze dropped for a moment. But the next moment, it hardened again.
"There is only hate within me now—and that is enough for her."
He turned without saying anything and strode out of the room.
Behind him, Arjun remained standing in his place—like a rock, that silently endures even the storm. But the glint in his eyes was still there—as if he knew that this game of hatred would go very far… and perhaps, in the end, would break someone completely.
✦ Chapter: “Housewarming – When Even the Threshold Feels Foreign”
Location: Rajvanshi Haveli – Main Gate
Time: 10:32 AM
The Rajvanshi Haveli’s main gate, a symbol of grandeur and power, was adorned with flowers today – garlands of marigolds and roses, but the decoration lacked any soul.
No band, no auspicious sounds… only a silence that seemed to say with every passing moment – "This is not a welcome, it's just a ritual."
A sleek, shiny black Mercedes stopped in front of the porch.
Raina Sharma gently opened the car door and stepped out.
She wore a red Banarasi lehenga – heavy zari embroidery, a small bindi on her forehead, and bangles on her wrists. But none of it could hide the tired silence on her face.
Behind them, Akhil Rajvanshi alighted.
And before them, standing at the main gate of the haveli – Manj Rajvanshi, Akhil's mother.
Beside her stood – Shalini.
Still a part of this house's identity.
There was no warmth or motherhood in the mother's eyes – just a hard, emotionless gaze.
Shalini’s smile was faint, but the sarcasm dancing in her eyes was clearly visible.
The priest held the plate – turmeric-kumkum, akshat, and a diya.
But there was no feeling of "aarti" in it.
Raina took slow steps and placed her foot on the threshold of the main gate.
Without smiling, the mother looked at the plate and said to the priest –
"Hurry up. No need for any theatrics."
The priest presented the plate to Raina.
Raina silently kicked the pot filled with rice. Then, she dipped her right foot into the wet kumkum.
The mother circled the plate, as if completing a legal formality.
"Step forward…"
The voice was cold – as if an object, not a daughter-in-law, was entering.
Raina, without any support, placed her kumkum-smeared feet on the haveli's white marble floor.
The housewarming was complete –
But no one said, "Welcome."
"I thought there would be an aarti to welcome the bride," Shalini smiled faintly, "but perhaps our old customs don't work anymore… and perhaps neither does the old place."
Her smile held the edge of sarcasm.
Raina looked at her but said nothing.
Silence was now her safest language.
"From now on, she is the daughter-in-law of this house," Yashvardhan Rajvanshi added softly, but the sentence carried information, not respect.
"Daughter-in-law?" The mother's face tensed.
"How can we accept someone we didn't choose willingly as our daughter-in-law?"
Arjun was about to say something when Akhil arrived –
In a black suit, with a cold expression. He neither looked at Raina nor spoke to anyone.
He simply came forward and said without stopping,
"I have nothing to do with this. She is in this house because you said so. For me, she is just a name – nothing more."
Raina's breath seemed to get stuck inside her.
Shalini, seizing the opportunity, struck again –
"It's remarkable… the wedding happened without consent, and so did the welcome…
Now, we just have to see how long this 'named' daughter-in-law can stay in this haveli."
The mother signaled the maid –
"Take her to the guest room."
"Guest room?" Arjun was surprised.
"Yes, there's no room for her in Akhil's room," the mother said, "Besides, her place… was meant for someone else."
Raina stood just inside the threshold – feet smeared, eyes not tearful, but shattered from within.
She tried to speak… but nothing came out.
Shalini came close again, whispering in her ear –
"I haven't lost, Raina. You've only found a place, not respect. And this house runs on respect – not names."
Raina’s gaze lowered.
Akhil, without looking at anyone, adjusted his collar and said –
"I'm going to my office. I'm not part of this drama."
"Drama?" Arjun narrowed his eyes.
"Yes, this," Akhil said, "Dragging a stranger into this house and then calling her a daughter-in-law – that's what it is, drama."
Raina looked at Akhil for the first time –
There was a stubbornness in his cold eyes that could incinerate someone's humanity.
He left – as if shedding a burden.
Now, only Raina stood near the gate.
Everyone had dispersed.
The priest was slowly packing the plate.
The maid, head bowed, approached Raina.
"Madam… shall I take you upstairs?"
Raina took a deep breath.
She looked back at the main gate's threshold, where the imprints of her feet had now faded.
The mark of the housewarming was disappearing –
As if it had never happened.
She slowly ascended – the embroidery of her lehenga now felt like a burden.
Sarcasm on her back, a bindi of disrespect on her forehead – and loneliness in her soul.
Old Corridor
Time: 3:15 PM
A long, silent corridor of the Rajvanshi Haveli –
Where the pictures hanging on the walls were silent, and the dim light of the bulb flickered like a suppressed conspiracy.
Here stood Yashvardhan Rajvanshi –
A red folder in his hand, and the creases on his forehead made every corner of the haveli tremble.
Arjun had just informed him –
That Akhil had sent the new bride, Raina, to the guest room.
And this news had spread among the haveli staff.
"Not in his room, but the guest room?"
There was lava in Yashvardhan's breath.
At that moment, Arjun appeared from one end of the corridor –
With a measured gait, but an icy arrow in his eyes.
"I need to talk to you, Arjun. Here and now."
Yashvardhan's voice was as hard as iron.
Yashvardhan stopped.
"Speak, Papa," his tone was cold, not respectful.
Yashvardhan tossed the folder towards him.
"Look at this. Some pictures.
Of that 'bride' – sitting at the guest room door.
Someone took them and sent them to a blog –"
Arjun opened the folder.
There were screenshots – and a proposed headline:
"Bride Not Given a Room Even After Marriage – Cruelty by In-laws in Rajvanshi Family?"
Yashvardhan now came right in front.
Yashvardhan stepped forward.
"If this gets out, you know what the media will do?
This empire's honor will be in the mud.
The reality of relationships comes later, son—first, the world sees the 'decoration'."
Arjun clenched his jaw.
"You know Akhil wasn't happy with this marriage.
Bringing Raina into this house was your decision."
"And the decisions that need to be made now are out of compulsion.
But they will have to be made," Yashvardhan said.
"Shift that girl to Akhil's room.
In front of the servants, the staff—so that everyone's mouths are shut.
The relationship you didn't want, you don't have to maintain it now, but at least you have to show it."
Arjun said nothing.
"It's an act for a few days.
Then, as she sees fit.
But for now—
Call her to Akhil's room."
"I won't go to him," Arjun said, cold as ice.
"Then send someone.
But that girl must be in Akhil's room from this evening.
Otherwise, a single photo can shatter the entire lineage."
Yashvardhan turned and left in anger—
And Arjun remained standing there.
The walls had heard everything.
4:45 PM
Location: Raina's Guest Room
Raina sat quietly—
Her mehndi had begun to fade, and the border of her lehenga lay scattered on the floor.
Then, a soft knock at the door.
A maid—wrapped in a saree, with a measured gait—entered the room.
She went straight to the wardrobe and, without a word, began packing Raina's belongings.
Raina was startled.
"What happened?" she asked in a low voice.
The maid, without meeting her eyes, said,
"Ma'am, you need to go to the room upstairs."
"Upstairs? You mean…?"
"It's the master's order.
From now on, you have to stay in the master's room.
After marriage, that is the wife's room."
Raina's lips trembled slightly.
She remained silent for a few moments.
Then, she asked softly,
"Did… Akhil… sir… himself send you?"
The maid shook her head—
"He didn't say it himself, but the order came from him."
Then, packing all the belongings neatly,
She said,
"Come, ma'am, we'll drop you off."
Raina got up silently.
Her feet felt heavy—as if each step was taken to erase her identity.
Akhil's Room
Location: Mansion – Second Floor
The door was opened.
Raina stepped inside—
There was a peculiar coolness in the room.
White walls, marble floor.
A study table on one side, a large wooden bed on the other.
But everything was so orderly, so… silent, it felt as though this room hadn't been waiting for anyone for years.
The maid placed the luggage aside and left without a word.
Now, only Raina was in the room.
And in that silence—
Even Akhil was not present.
Raina looked towards the bed—one corner was empty.
She walked slowly towards it.
She didn't sit—she just stood.
Perhaps she was thinking—
Could this truly become her "home"?
Or was it no less than a prison?
On the other side of the door, in some corner—
Perhaps Akhil stood… watching, or perhaps not.
But it was certain—
This room was no longer just four walls,
It had become the court of a false relationship.
There were two people in the room—
One, who had come here after losing everything.
The other, who had been placed in this place without gaining anything.
And between them—not just a bed,
But a distance that would perhaps become the entire story.
