The Aditya Dynasty – a name the world simply knows as a business tycoon.<br /> A mind that only sees profit in every deal.<br /> Relationships, emotions, love – he has nothing to do with these words. For him, life runs only on decisions and control.<... The Aditya Dynasty – a name the world simply knows as a business tycoon.<br /> A mind that only sees profit in every deal.<br /> Relationships, emotions, love – he has nothing to do with these words. For him, life runs only on decisions and control.<br /> <br /> And then there's Manal Khanna – an ordinary girl, the only daughter of a small factory owner. Her world is limited, but her heart is huge.<br /> When her father goes into a coma in a painful accident.<br /> <br /> And that's when Aditya Rajvansh places a strange deal in front of her:<br /> <br /> > "Marry me, and I will take responsibility for your father's treatment and your factory."<br /> <br /> Why does a billionaire businessman...<br /> ...want to marry a simple girl?<br /> <br /> A measured love story, in which<br /> <br /> relationships begin with a deal<br /> <br /> and love returns from the past<br /> <br /> where behind every smile is a hidden wound<br /> <br /> and every decision is not just business, but connected to the heart<br />
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He picked up the phone with a heavy heart.
"...My future wife ❤️..."
There was a captivating lilt in his voice.
"...You turned off your phone... You know how much I want to talk to you? Should I come over if you say so..."
Manal's voice turned cold—
"...No... If there's something important, please tell me over the phone... And yes, there's no need to call me 'wife' right now... We aren't married yet..."
"...Okay, okay... If not today, then the day after tomorrow... Then you'll be in my arms... Did I say that right..."
Manal's eyes welled up.
Until now, no one had dared to speak to her like this.
"...When we get married... we'll see... For now, there's no need to call me wife..."
Her voice was choked.
Aditya could hear her pain, so he immediately changed the subject.
---
🔍 An accident... or something more?
"I called you for this reason..."
Aditya became serious.
"I am sending two employees—Rita Pereira and Ratan Kumar."
"Why...? For what?" Manal was startled.
"Your father's accident is not as simple as it appears. I have strong doubts that it wasn't an 'accident'... it was orchestrated. And I think it's directly related to your factory... and to you too..."
Manal's eyes widened.
"And the promise I made—to support your business—I will keep it. There's no need to be afraid... Everything will become clear in a few days... And if I keep my promise... you'll have to keep yours too... Did I say that right?"
---
🧠 Manal's Dilemma — A Relationship, But At What Cost?
"...Perhaps our relationship is only as long as he doesn't get tired of me..."
She said to herself.
"...It's clear what he wants from me... and I have to be prepared for any situation..."
But she was surprised that when he first came to meet her, Manal thought he would talk about a contract marriage.
A contract that would clearly state that after marriage, she would have no claim on the property... and after divorce, she would get nothing.
But instead...
He sent his parents to propose.
He spread the news of the engagement throughout the media.
Now, the wedding was also in front of the media, raising her stature in the business world and society.
Now she was 'Manal Aditya Rajvansh'.
Legally—Aditya's wife.
---
🎊 Housewarming — Rituals Performed, But With Turmoil in Her Heart
"...We've arrived, come on, wife..."
Aditya stopped the car.
"...Come on, get out, wife..."
He smiled.
Just then, his sister-in-law and aunt arrived—
"How can you just get her out? Wait!"
They lovingly helped Manal out of the car.
Then the housewarming was performed with all the rituals.
Aditya performed every ritual with sincerity—
He was smiling, as if everything was normal.
But Manal's heart kept asking the question—
"Is all this true? Or is it another ploy?"
---
🏭 Manal's father, Mahesh Khanna, was a respectable businessman.
He had a name in the city.
He owned a pharmaceutical factory.
Her mother was a cheerful homemaker, and her younger brother was doing his MBA abroad.
Manal had recently completed her M.Com.
After her studies, she joined her father's office as a hobby.
Soon, talks of her marriage began.
She had also started liking the man she was betrothed to.
The engagement date was also almost fixed.
But then...
Everything changed for her in an accident.
Mahesh Khanna went into a coma.
---
📉
Now there was no one to look after the factory.
Her brother was abroad, her mom was a homemaker.
Manal tried her best—
To manage the factory, to move the work forward.
But she met failure at every step.
Workers were about to go on strike.
Raw material supplies had stopped.
There wasn't even money to pay salaries.
No bank was providing loans.
Manal was breaking down badly.
---
It was in these circumstances that his call came—
He wanted to meet.
Manal was surprised—
She thought he wanted to buy her factory...
Or perhaps blackmail her.
But it was difficult to refuse him.
He was now one of the most powerful business tycoons in the city.
The meeting was set—Sunday evening, at Manal's office.
When Aditya appeared—
Manal's eyes widened.
The chocolate boy from college had now become a business emperor.
Impeccable suit.
Branded watch.
Styled hair.
Deep eyes.
Serious face.
His smile was still the same—but the effect was different.
Manal felt a burning sensation in her heart.
She was caught between hatred and compulsion.
She knew—she had no standing.
But it was important to talk.
---
He said, picking up the teacup—
"I'll speak directly... without beating around the bush..."
What offer had he brought?
Did he genuinely want to buy her factory?
Or did he have some other intention?
Manal had found the answer...
But with that answer came another question—
"Am I ready for this deal?"
---
✨
Sipping his tea, he spoke to Manal in a calm but very deep voice:
"...Look, I won't beat around the bush... I'll say what I have to say, clearly..."
He was about to make an offer to Manal that could change the direction of her life.
"...Right now, you and your factory are facing a huge crisis. Most of your deals are getting cancelled, supplies aren't happening on time. You're not getting new tenders, nor are you retaining old ones. The workers are preparing for a strike, raw materials aren't arriving either... and your father's condition is the same as before – no improvement..."
He paused for a moment, and looked at Manal with a deep gaze.
"...There's only one solution to all these problems – if you marry me, all these problems will be solved automatically..."
Manal was completely shocked now.
"...Now you'll think, why would you marry me. But you also know that if your factory is associated with my name, linked with my business, everything will change. Suppliers will trust you, investors will return, and your enemies will think twice. And if the factory closes... then your father will never recover. You know how mentally attached he is to it."
"...Think about it. Give me your answer on this number."
---
Manal had been watching him until now. But now her voice became firm:
"...What's in it for you? Why do you want to save my factory? What do you care about my father's health?"
Aditya replied with a slight smile:
"...I don't care about your factory, nor about your father's health. If there's anything... it's only 'you'. You know very well... you were my crush in college. You ignored me then... and now I won't let you go..."
"...I want to spend not just one night, but maybe many nights with you. But I know – you will never agree without marriage. So I've made this offer – which will benefit you as well as me."
The intensity of his gaze was now piercing Manal's face. He was staring at her with his intoxicating eyes as if claiming a right.
After a moment of silence, he said:
"...You don't have to rush. Make a well-thought-out decision. Your circumstances are already dire... and now there's no room for any mistake..."
Saying this, he left.
After he left, Manal remained seated. A fire was burning within her – against herself, against the circumstances, and against the man who had turned her helplessness into his weapon.
When she returned home tired and exhausted that night, she quietly refused when her mother asked if she wanted food. She closed the door and sat alone in her room.
"...What he said, it wasn't wrong... If his factory gets associated with my name, everything can change..."
"...But how can I do this to him...? Marriage only out of compulsion...!"
---
The man Manal was supposed to be engaged to also didn't support her. He came to meet her once and then disappeared. He didn't answer Manal's calls. Later, Manal saw him with another girl – and within a few days, news of his engagement also came.
She cried a lot that day.
Since then, no one supported her – except that Aditya, who was demanding a price in return for his support.
The very next morning, he called.
"...So tell me, when do you want to get married...? When should I come to your house?"
Manal said with a heavy heart:
"...Whenever you wish... I am ready for the marriage..."
"...Alright then... wait for me..."
He said and disconnected the call.
---
In the evening, he arrived at Manal's house with his parents.
Manal hadn't expected him to come so directly to ask for her hand.
Aditya's mother said to Manal's aunt:
"...We have been pursuing her for marriage for a long time... Now she herself has said that she likes Manal... so what objection do we have? If the children want each other, the marriage should happen soon..."
Manal's aunt fell silent. She remembered her husband in a coma.
It was difficult to say whether it was right to make such a quick decision in the absence of Manal's father.
Then Aditya's father said:
"...We know that Manal's father is currently in the hospital... so we won't have a grand ceremony. We'll have a simple and respectable function."
---
Is Aditya really taking advantage of Manal's helplessness?
Is this relationship just a transaction?
Or is there something more in his heart somewhere?
---
👉
Manal's mother, Deepa Ji, fell silent. The memory of her husband's condition shook her to the core. With him in a coma, should she be making such a big decision?
After a few moments of silence, Aditya's father, Dharmpal Ji, spoke:
"We know Manal's father isn't well at the moment... that's precisely why we want everything to be very simple. We understand your difficulties..."
Then he said softly:
"...Besides, our son has said the wedding will be in the temple – very simple, without any fuss..."
Deepa Ji saw no issue with this proposal. Truth be told, she had liked Aditya from the first moment she saw him. She was seeing a better future for her daughter.
Manal was going into a home that was at the top in terms of name, wealth, and status. What greater satisfaction could a mother have?
***
Evening had fallen, but the conversation continued.
Deepa Ji urged them to stay, and at her single request, Aditya's family agreed.
A good bond formed between Aditya's mother, Anita Ji, and Deepa Ji. Both seemed very happy, as if old friends had met. And today, their children, having liked each other, had given them another beautiful relationship.
Anita Ji had been persistently pressuring Aditya to get married for a long time. She had shown him countless girls, but Aditya had refused every time.
"If you like someone, introduce us to them..."
She would often tell Aditya. But he never agreed.
***
Aditya had two younger siblings.
His younger brother was already married and had two sons.
His younger sister was studying medicine abroad.
Anita Ji wanted Aditya to marry first, but he wouldn't budge at any cost. She feared he might marry a foreign girl if he went abroad.
When Aditya himself brought up "Manal's" name, she couldn't think for a moment – she agreed immediately.
Now, having seen Manal, she couldn't find anyone better for Aditya.
Manal was extremely beautiful, cultured, and from a respectable family.
***
Dharmpal Ji already knew Mahesh Khanna Ji.
He had also seen Manal and, in every respect, she seemed suitable for his son.
The Rajvansh family was, in any case, one of the most influential and prestigious families in the city.
Aditya's name was counted among the country's "Most Eligible Bachelors."
Anita Ji always feared that Aditya might bring just any "ordinary" girl home as his wife.
But seeing Manal now, her heart was at peace.
***
Late into the night, Dharmpal Ji, Anita Ji, and Deepa Ji continued their conversation.
Aditya also sat with them.
When Deepa Ji went to the kitchen to get something, Aditya followed her.
He stayed there for about half an hour.
When he came out, Deepa Ji's face held deep satisfaction.
Manal watched this, burning inside.
"What did he say to Mom that made her so happy?"
She felt like throwing them all out of the house.
But out of obligation, she continued to speak with Anita Ji, smiling.
***
As they were leaving, Anita Ji said:
"Alright, then we'll come tomorrow afternoon. It will just be the family. Manal and Aditya will exchange rings. The wedding will be simple at the temple, but the engagement ceremony must take place."
Anita Ji and Dharmpal Ji were very happy,
but Deepa Ji's happiness was even greater.
***
As soon as they left, Deepa Ji showered Aditya and his family with praise.
"Manal is getting such a great position... There are no worries now..."
In fact, ever since Mahesh Ji's accident,
Deepa Ji had been breaking down inside every day.
The boy with whom she had finalized Manal's engagement had also backed out.
Now that a boy like Aditya had taken the initiative,
Deepa Ji felt as if she had found a lifeline sent by God.
***
The next day at noon, Aditya arrived with his mom, dad, younger brother, and sister-in-law.
The engagement ceremony took place simply at home.
The two exchanged rings.
Afterward, everyone had lunch.
Aditya's sister-in-law kept saying with a smile:
"...We can't believe Adi Bhaiya is getting married... We thought he would never get married..."
Aditya's family, except for Aditya himself, pleased Manal.
***
Throughout the entire engagement event,
whenever Manal looked towards Aditya, he was looking at her.
His eyes held not desire, but just lust.
Manal felt like killing him right there.
But controlling herself,
she sat quietly.
Aditya's intoxicating eyes kept staring at her.
Manal felt the heat of his gaze moment by moment.
***
As they were leaving, Dharmpal Ji said:
"...Alright sister-in-law, then let's have the wedding at the temple in two days..."
Hearing his words, Manal looked at Aditya.
"So soon...?"
She wasn't ready.
But the engagement had happened in just one day...
And now the wedding was in just two days.
She knew Aditya's haste wasn't just for the wedding – it was for some other reason.
***
❓ What will happen next?
Will Manal ever be able to tell her mother the truth about Aditya?
Will this marriage save her or drag her deeper?
Does Aditya only want Manal, or is there another conspiracy involved?
***
❗
Before leaving, Dharmpal Ji said with a smile, "Alright Sister-in-law, then let's have the wedding at the temple in two days... the wedding will be very simple... we understand your thoughts very well..."
Hearing him, Manal looked at Aditya.
Getting married so soon? She had never even thought of it.
But just as the engagement had happened in a single day, Aditya was now rushing the marriage as well.
And Manal knew the real reason for his haste.
--
She knew — Aditya wanted only one thing —
To bring her to his bed as soon as possible.
He was in a hurry to sleep with Manal.
Dharmpal Ji continued:
"If the children wish it, Sister-in-law... then the wedding can be in two days. Anyway, after the wedding, it will be easier for Manal to manage the factory... then Aditya will be able to help her openly. And yes, we also want you to stay with us until your son returns from abroad... how will you stay alone? And Mahesh ji's health too..."
Deepa Ji immediately replied:
"Thank you for your concern, Brother-in-law. But my sister, Manal's aunt, is coming to stay with us. I spoke to her yesterday. She lives abroad with her children, but ever since she learned about Mahesh ji's accident, she's been wanting to come."
Manal felt good that Aditya's parents were so concerned about her mother, but deep down her heart sank.
She felt like running away from everything.
--
Entering the room, Manal angrily took off her engagement ring and threw it away.
But she knew — it wouldn't change anything.
Her attention turned to her father.
"I wish a miracle would happen... and Papa would regain consciousness..."
So that she wouldn't have to get married.
But she knew — nothing like that was going to happen.
---
Just then her phone rang — it was a call from "Aditya Rajput".
She didn't feel like answering, but she picked it up.
Aditya's voice came: "You still haven't saved my number?"
"No... I have..." — Manal lied.
Aditya chuckled and said: "Your profile pic isn't visible on WhatsApp. Come on, I'll call again, first save my number."
And he hung up.
Manal reluctantly saved his number.
A few moments later, some pictures from the engagement arrived on her phone.
Then immediately the call came: "Set our engagement photo as your profile pic on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook."
"Why?" — Manal asked angrily.
"Why what? Your name is now linked to mine. The world should know. This will also benefit your business. So do as I said, understood?"
The call was disconnected.
--
Manal angrily threw her phone on the floor.
But after a while, when her anger subsided, she picked up the phone.
"He's right..." — she thought.
"If people know that I'm engaged to Aditya Rajput,
the factory will get suppliers... enemies will be scared... and trust will return to the business..."
She changed her WhatsApp profile pic — and put up a smiling picture of herself with Aditya.
Then she posted the same picture on Instagram and Facebook.
--
A few moments later, the call came again.
"Good girl... we both look so good together. We'll look even better after the wedding. I'm right, aren't I, my love ❤️ Aditya always says the right thing..."
Manal felt like breaking her phone or strangling him.
In anger, she switched off her phone.
---
After a while, her mother knocked on the door: "What happened, dear? Was there some work?"
"No, Mom..."
Deepa Ji said: "Your phone seems to be switched off. Son-in-law wants to call. His call came to my phone. And yes, your mother-in-law is also calling — I had cut it off in between."
As she was leaving, she dropped another bombshell: "Your mother-in-law informed me that the auspicious time for the wedding has been set for the day after tomorrow..."
--
Upon hearing Deepa Ji's words, Manal's heart sank.
"How clever this man is...
He's arranged everything in two-three days — engagement, wedding, photos, everything...
This is all planned in such a way that I can't refuse..."
Manal mentally cursed Aditya with vulgar abuse.
Her head was bursting with anger.
She forgot to turn her phone back on.
---
A little later, her mother came again: "What happened, dear? Why haven't you turned your phone on yet? Son-in-law called again — he said he has something important to talk to you about..."
Resignedly, she turned on her phone.
As soon as she turned it on, Aditya's call came again.
"What's the matter, my future wife 😊 You switched off your phone — I have so many things to talk to you about..."
---
Will Manal be able to save herself from this marriage?
Will she be able to tell her mother the truth?
Does Aditya really want to help her, or is there something else behind this?
---
She had to turn on her phone, suppressing her feelings.
As soon as the phone was on, Aditya's call started coming again.
She had no desire to pick up the phone, but she knew –
She had to pick up the phone.
She knew he was controlling her with his gestures, and the sad thing was that she was dancing even knowing this.
Her mind was saying –
"If he is controlling her this much before marriage, what will happen after marriage?"
"What will he do later, who already has so much hunger in his eyes?"
She picked up the phone with a heavy heart.
"What is it, my soon-to-be wife ❤️... you had switched off your phone... don't you know how much I want to talk to you? If you say, I can come to meet you right now..."
Manal said in a voice filled with hatred –
"No, if there is something important, tell me here. And yes, there is no need to call me 'wife' right now. Our marriage has not happened yet."
He said, laughing –
"Okay, okay... if not today, then tomorrow. Then you will be in my arms. Did I say that right?"
Manal's eyes welled up.
Until today, no one had dared to speak to her like this.
"When the wedding happens... we'll see then.
There's no need to call me wife right now..."
She said in a tearful voice.
With her trembling voice, Aditya understood that she was crying.
Aditya immediately changed the subject.
"I actually called you for this...
I am sending two employees – Rita Pereira and Ratan Kumar."
"Why? For what?" Manal asked in surprise.
"Because your father's accident is not as straightforward as it appears.
I think this is not an accident... it was orchestrated.
And its threads could be connected to your surroundings and your factory."
"I am fulfilling the promise I made, to support your business and factory.
Don't be afraid... you will soon know everything yourself.
Because only when I fulfill my promise will you also fulfill yours... Did I say that right?"
After a few moments of silence, he spoke again –
"Yes, and Mom said that you have to go shopping with her tomorrow... to prepare for the wedding."
"You know how much work is pending. How can I go tomorrow?
Let Mom pick whatever she likes. I will like whatever she likes."
"Don't worry about the work.
The people I am sending will take care of half of your work.
Perhaps you can leave for shopping after lunch.
Anyway, I can't refuse Mom..."
---
The next morning, when she picked up the newspaper,
Her engagement picture with Aditya was printed on the front page.
A smiling picture of both of them –
The same news was on every news channel.
The engagement of Aditya Rajvansh and Manal.
Aditya did not gain any direct benefit from this,
But Manal's business was about to get a boost.
Manal understood that he was fulfilling all his promises.
--
Before she reached the office,
Rita Pereira and Ratan Kumar had already arrived.
Rita Pereira – a sensible woman, around fifty years old.
Ratan Kumar – a smart and sharp person, around 35 years old.
Rita took charge of the office,
While Ratan went to the factory.
Manal made Ratan the in-charge of the factory.
--
The wedding day arrived.
Manal was extremely worried.
Deepa Ji also sensed her worry,
But she thought it was due to her father's health.
Her aunt also arrived on the wedding day.
Together they consoled her –
"Child, don't worry about your father. Today is your wedding – the start of a new life.
Embrace this day with a smile, with your whole heart."
---
The wedding took place simply in the temple.
Only close family members were present.
Just then, the doctor called –
Who was looking after her father's treatment.
"The specialist doctor who was to come from abroad has arrived."
Manal looked at Aditya.
She understood – this was also done by Aditya.
Now, after her business, he was also taking care of her father's health.
After the wedding, when they came out of the temple,
The media surrounded them completely.
Pictures of their wedding started appearing on every news channel.
Aditya held her hand.
While posing for photos, he stood with his arm around her waist.
There was a strange glint in his intoxicating eyes.
Whenever he looked at Manal –
Manal felt nervous.
She knew, now she would live with him in the same house. In the same room.
--
While arriving at the Rajvansh Mansion,
Everyone was in their own cars.
Aditya took Manal with him.
Today, his driver was not there –
He was driving himself.
While driving,
He held Manal's hand.
Then gently pulled her close to his chest.
Manal tried to pull her hand away,
But Aditya held it even tighter.
---
It was as if all the life had drained from Manal's body.
She was thinking –
"I wish this time would freeze... I wish tonight wouldn't come.
I wish some magic would happen and this wedding would stop..."
But she knew –
There were no miracles in real life.
What is destined to happen, will happen.
---
> Will Manal get relief after marriage, or will an even more terrifying truth be revealed?
> Is Aditya's companionship her security or imprisonment?
Manal felt lifeless in Manali.
She was just dragging herself along as best she could.
The same thought kept repeating in her mind—
"I wish time would stop… I wish it wouldn't be night."
But she knew that time waits for no one.
--
Upon returning to the Dynasty Mansion, everyone had already settled into their own vehicles.
Aditya had seated Manal with him in his car.
He was driving himself today.
The other family members were in different cars.
As the car drove on,
He suddenly took Manal's hand
And gently pulled her close to his chest.
When Manal tried to pull her hand away,
He chuckled and said—
"...I still have a right to you... how can you pull your hand away like this? Am I right?
Besides, I never say the wrong thing..."
Then he touched Manal's hand with his lips.
Manal burned from within.
Her face turned crimson.
Seeing her state, Aditya burst out laughing—
"...Hey, I've only held your hand so far...
Imagine what will happen tonight, wife..."
His eyes held a strange mischief.
His eyes were bloodshot— as if the intoxication of the night was spilling from them.
Manal turned her face away.
"...What's the point of turning away, wife? The truth won't change..."
He laughed again and said—
"Look, I'm fulfilling every promise... Now you mustn't go back on your promise either..."
While driving, he glanced at her for a moment.
Manal lowered her gaze.
---
"He's speaking the truth,"
Manal thought to herself.
"...He is fulfilling every promise,
So why am I angry?
He had already told me why he wanted to marry me..."
"Perhaps this relationship will only last
Until his interest in me wanes.
What he wants from me— that was clear from the beginning..."
"...But still, the most surprising thing was—
That he sent his proposal to my parents.
He announced our engagement and marriage to the media.
He gave me respect in front of the entire business world and society.
Today, I am legally his wife...
Manal Aditya Dynasty..."
"...I thought he would set terms for a contract marriage—
So that he wouldn't have to give me anything later.
But he didn't do anything like that.
Everything happened so quickly that I couldn't even comprehend it..."
---
🏠
"We've arrived home, come on, wife..."
Aditya's voice broke Manal's thoughts.
He stopped the car.
"Come on, get out, wife..."
Aditya smiled.
Just then, his sister-in-law and aunt arrived.
"How can the daughter-in-law get out like this... Wait..."
They lovingly helped Manal out of the car.
After that, the traditional housewarming rituals began.
Aditya appeared very happy during every ritual.
He performed each ritual with his heart.
---
💍
Then both were seated together on the sofa in the drawing-room.
Aditya sat beside her, looking at her repeatedly.
His gaze was full of mischief.
Manal was ignoring him.
Just then, Aditya's younger sister, Nisha, called him on video.
"Brother, show us your wife!"
She chirped.
As soon as Nisha saw Manal, she exclaimed—
"Sister-in-law is even more beautiful than you!
Now I understand why you wanted to get married so quickly!
I thought I'd dance and celebrate at your wedding, and receive gifts—
But you got married within a week!"
Aditya laughed and said—
"No problem, come to India— you'll get whatever you want!"
Just then, his sister-in-law, Naina, came from behind.
"You know, Nisha, Aditya never even talked about marriage.
Now look— he got married in a week!
It seems Sister-in-law has cast some magic!"
"Actually, Sister-in-law is so beautiful...
That's why brother agreed.
Isn't that right, Aditya brother?"
Nisha teased.
---
💎
For the "muh dikhai" (showing the face ceremony), Dharampal Ji and Anita Ji gifted Manal a very beautiful diamond set.
Anita Ji said—
"Child, do you like it?"
"Yes, it's very beautiful..."
Manal replied respectfully.
Anita Ji smiled and said—
"It is beautiful... but not more beautiful than you..."
After this, Adhiraj and Naina also gifted expensive jewelry.
Naina jokingly said—
"Adi brother, what are you gifting your elder sister-in-law for the muh dikhai?"
Aditya quickly replied—
"There can be no greater gift than me...
Still, ask them— whatever they wish to ask for, let them ask..."
Naina burst into laughter—
"Brother will give the gift tonight, won't he, Sister?"
Amidst the laughter and jokes,
Dharampal Ji came to Aditya.
"Tell me Adi, when should we have the reception?
News of your wedding has spread all over the media.
Videos of you two are playing on every channel.
Now everyone is asking when the party is..."
Aditya was about to say something when
His phone rang again.
He went aside, received the call,
Then returned and said something seriously...
---
> What will happen next? Will everything be normal at the reception, or is a storm brewing? Will Manal begin to understand Aditya's intentions, or will another secret be revealed?
Aditya excused himself to take a call and returned a while later, saying, "Dad, we'll have to hold the reception tomorrow. I have to leave for Australia tonight. There have been some issues with our hotel project there, and my presence is crucial."
Dharmpal Ji was displeased. "But your wedding was today, and you're preparing to leave for Australia tomorrow? This isn't right, Aditya!"
Aditya replied calmly, "Dad, it's unavoidable. I have to go."
"How many days will you be gone?" Dharmpal Ji asked.
"At least a week..." Aditya answered. "...That's why it's best to have the reception tomorrow."
"Alright then," Dharmpal Ji said, "we'll have the reception tomorrow, and after that, you can leave for Australia with your bride."
***
Hearing Dharmpal Ji, Manal felt a turmoil within. She did not want to go to Australia with Aditya at any cost. But before she could say anything, Aditya spoke up himself—
"I won't be taking Manal with me, Dad. You know her father isn't well. And besides, she has to look after the office—her presence is very important there. I'll be back in a few days."
Manal breathed a sigh of relief. She had managed to avoid going to Australia, but tonight... The same question kept revolving in her mind—"Me with Aditya... how?"
***
Manal was tired of sitting in the lobby, but she was hesitant to go to her room—Aditya's room, that is. She was now contemplating what she would have to endure that night.
Just then, Anita Ji said to Naina, "Go and escort the bride to the room."
Now, Manal had no choice but to go.
***
Naina led her to Aditya's room and left after opening the door.
The room was decorated with flowers—every corner fragrant. Behind the bed hung a large picture from Aditya and Manal's engagement. The room was spacious and luxurious—grand, just like Aditya's personality.
But far from all this grandeur, Manal's heart was pounding fiercely.
***
Just then, the door opened—Aditya entered.
He came up behind her, placed his hands on her shoulders, and said with a smile, "Do you like this picture? The one from our engagement… I had it put up yesterday."
Manal remained silent. Perhaps she was preparing herself internally for the daunting night that was about to begin.
***
Aditya said, "Mana… you look even more beautiful than before…"
Hearing her old name, "Mana," from Aditya's lips made her heart race. A wave of hatred washed over her. But she didn't let any expression show on her face.
"You must be tired standing for so long…" Aditya took her hand and gently sat her down on the sofa. Then he started playing with her hand.
Manal sat silently, her head bowed.
"Say something… Mana…" At his words, Manal looked up, but her face was expressionless.
***
Aditya moved a little closer. He gently moved her dupatta from her neck and touched her neck with his lips. Beads of sweat broke out on Manal's back.
Aditya laughed and said, "Should I turn up the AC? It seems you're feeling warm… And yes, change your clothes too. Your lehenga looks very heavy. Wear something lighter."
He tried to remove her dupatta.
***
Manal stood up immediately.
"No… I'll change later," she said softly.
"Alright… it's almost time for dinner anyway…" Aditya said and went into the washroom.
***
A while later, Naina arrived with food, accompanied by a servant.
"This is food for both of you, eat it," Naina said and left.
Aditya came out after changing. His face was beaming—the same mischief and desire in his eyes.
"Come Mana, eat your food…"
Manal said in a soft voice, "I'm not hungry…"
"How can that be… eat at least a little." He scooped rice onto his spoon and offered it to her.
"No, it's okay. I'll eat myself."
"Oh, let me feed you today. It's our first night…" he said with a captivating smile.
***
Aditya said again, "Go Mana, go and change. I'll be sitting here, waiting for you."
Manal gathered all her strength and opened her bag, taking out a nightsuit. She went into the bathroom to change.
***
She stood there for a long time. Perhaps contemplating how to gather the courage to come out.
But for how long? She had to come out.
When she came out wearing lower and a t-shirt, Aditya raised his eyebrows upon seeing her.
"Oh, what's this Mana… I thought you'd wear a sexy nightie… and you've come out in boys' lowers and t-shirt!"
"...This is all I have to wear tonight..." Manal said in a low voice.
"It's okay," Aditya said with a smile, "If we get some time tomorrow, we'll go shopping."
"Okay..." Manal replied in a very quiet voice.
Aditya pulled her hand and sat her next to him. Holding her hand, he said, "So, you remember your promise, right?"
"Yes..." It was as if she couldn't make a sound. The voice was so heavy and broken, as if coming from the bottom of a well.
At that moment, Manal hated the man sitting in front of her... a deep hatred. So much so that perhaps she had never hated anyone in her entire life. And this hatred was not limited to Aditya; she had started hating herself too. She felt she was no longer human – just a bargain. A bargain where she had put her body on the line to save her father's factory. In words, she was Aditya's wife, but in some corner of her heart, she knew – this marriage was not a true relationship, just a deal.
--
Just then, someone knocked on the door. Manal felt a sense of relief. She immediately got up and opened the door. The maid was standing there with a tray of milk. Manal took the tray and placed it on the table. Aditya picked up a glass of milk and said mischievously, "Okay... tonight we'll both drink milk from the same glass."
--
Just then, Aditya's phone rang. He took his phone and went towards the balcony. Manal breathed a sigh of relief. She leaned against the back of the bed and then Aditya returned. He came and held Manal's hand again. Now Manal had completely surrendered herself to the circumstances. She closed her eyes. What was meant to happen, would happen now...
--
Aditya took her face in his hands. He was slowly coming closer to her. Manal's heartbeats had become uncontrollable. Just then—
Her phone rang again. Annoyed, he got up and went to talk on the phone. This time, Manal felt real relief.
---
She quietly went into the bathroom. The day's exhaustion, helplessness, and fear – all flowed from her eyes. She had never felt so broken, so weak before. She sat in the bathroom for a long time, crying. When her heart felt a little lighter, she washed her face and came out. Lying in bed, she didn't even realize when she fell asleep.
Her eyes opened in the morning when she felt someone's warm breath on her neck. She sat up in panic. She saw – Aditya was lying face down beside her. And his breath was still touching Manal's neck. Very slowly, carefully, she got up and went to the washroom.
--
She took off her clothes, bathed, and got ready. Aditya was still asleep by then. Just then, the door knocked again. The maid had come with tea. Manal took the tea and started thinking, "Should I wake up Aditya or not?"
---
Aditya woke up on his own while drinking tea. "Oh, wife... you're awake?" He smiled. "You fell asleep before I came last night... I tried to wake you up a lot... but you didn't. I also had to give you your 'muh dikhai' gift..." Then he said mischievously, "...Anyway, I gave you a couple of kisses while you were sleeping..."
Manal quietly drank her tea without any reaction. Aditya suddenly sent her some photos. "Look, how we both look..." As soon as Manal opened her phone, her face turned pale. They were pictures from the night... Aditya was kissing her cheeks and lips. She started thinking – was she really that deeply asleep? Or did she... just... endure everything? But when Aditya said he had woken her up, perhaps he was telling the truth... What reason would he have to lie?
"It's okay..." Aditya said, "You fell asleep last night... it's not that much time now..." He got up and came to sit on the sofa next to Manal. Manal felt uneasy again. "Now... at this time..." she thought.
-
Aditya held her hand. He was looking at her with intoxicating eyes – as if his eyes were telling everything. Then he tucked a strand of hair that had fallen on her face behind her ear. Manal was trembling from within, sitting there. "Last night somehow passed, but where do I go now?"
--
Aditya was leaning down to hold her face, when suddenly there was a knock on the door. He stopped. He didn't want to, but he still had to get up. He opened the door – Naina was standing there. "Brother, may I come in?" Aditya moved aside. Naina came in. "I've come to pick up Manal – it's her first cooking today. And Aunt is calling. You also get ready quickly, brother..." Naina said with a smile.
---
END
The door opened, and Naina was standing there.
"May I come in?" she asked Aditya, who was standing at the door.
Aditya moved aside.
"Brother, you should also get ready and come downstairs... Mom is calling. I've come to pick up Manal... today is her first kitchen..." Naina said, smiling as she entered the room.
Aditya interrupted her with a smile, "By the way, I think you should call her 'Didi'. She's older than you in this relationship." Saying this, he went towards the bathroom.
Manal went downstairs to the lobby with Naina.
---
Aditya's interruption of Naina in that manner surprised Manal.
She felt good about someone taking a stand for her like that. Perhaps for the first time, she realized that Aditya had some respect for this relationship.
When she reached downstairs, breakfast was almost ready.
Anita ji was waiting for her.
"Manal, the food is ready... Come, just help with serving..." Mom said lovingly.
"If something needs to be cooked, I can cook it... I know how to cook," Manal replied politely.
"No dear, everything is made. You and Naina can serve everything together..."
Manal and Naina served breakfast together.
Manal was feeling a sense of belonging in the family. Everyone was treating her with great affection.
At that moment, Aditya also came downstairs, ready. There was a serene smile on his face. And Manal knew what was the reason for that smile.
---
The whole family was happily having breakfast and discussing the preparations for the evening reception.
On the occasion of her first kitchen, everyone gave gifts to Manal.
"Brother, what gift are you giving Manal Didi?" Naina asked Aditya mischievously.
Aditya looked towards Manal. Manal felt his gaze and immediately lowered her eyes.
"I didn't even know there was a tradition of giving gifts... I'll give something nice in the evening. By the way, Mana... what do you want?"
"If Bhai is asking, you should ask for a nice gift, Didi!" Naina said, laughing.
"No, I don't want anything... I've already received a lot," Manal said in a low voice, her eyes lowered.
---
Just then, a person was seen approaching – a middle-aged man carrying a bag.
"Lawyer Sir, I was waiting for you," Aditya said, walking towards him.
"Apologies, I wanted to come earlier but got delayed. I know it's your reception today, and you must be very busy..." Saying this, the person took out some documents from the files and placed them in front of Manal.
"You need to sign all these, ma'am."
Manal looked at Aditya in surprise. Aditya nodded "yes."
---
Manal didn't understand what these papers were for. But she didn't ask any questions. Whatever papers Advocate Arun Mehta presented, she quietly kept signing them. Her heart was telling her, "Perhaps this is some marriage agreement... stating that she won't get any share of Aditya's property... and if there's a divorce, she can't make any claims..." She didn't want to reveal anything by asking in front of everyone, exposing her honor and the truth of the relationship. Therefore, she signed all the papers without reading them.
---
After getting all the documents signed, Advocate Arun Mehta handed a copy to Manal and said, "This is your copy, Mrs. Rajvansh. Now let me tell you all its terms..."
Manal was shocked. She looked at both Aditya and the lawyer. She wanted the conversation to stop there. So that their "deal" wouldn't be known to others. But before she could say anything, Advocate Arun Mehta spoke: "Perhaps Mr. Aditya has already told you... his grandmother's property—which was entirely in Aditya's name—has now been transferred to both of your names."
"What...?" Manal couldn't understand anything. Her eyes filled with surprise.
---
Dharmpal ji took over the conversation – "I'll tell you the whole story..." Manal listened to him attentively.
**"Aditya's mother—my first wife—was an only child of her parents. A few days after Aditya's birth, she passed away. His grandmother transferred all her property to him. But there was a condition—he would only receive this property when he got married.**
**And after marriage—half the property would be in Aditya's name, and half in his wife's name. However, neither Aditya nor his wife could sell this property. When their children turn 18, they can transfer their respective shares to the children's names.**
**And if, for some reason, Aditya divorces his wife, all this property will be donated to an ashram in Varanasi. Therefore... this property now belongs to both of you—but ownership will only go to your children. You both cannot sell it, cannot transfer it to each other's names—but you can use the income according to your needs."**
Dharmpal ji's voice was calm—but his words echoed like bells in Manal's ears.
---
Manal was surprised... stunned. She had thought she was marrying into a deal—but here, property was being transferred in her name. She had never imagined that behind this relationship, there was something else—an old will, a grandmother's blessing... and an unbreakable bond.
---
Dharmpal Ji's words left Manal completely stunned.
She had no idea that the documents she thought were part of a contract marriage were actually related to property transfer.
Her mind went blank for a moment.
Slowly, she raised her eyes and looked at Aditya.
She hoped he would say something now… explain something.
--
Just then, lawyer Arun Mehta spoke,
"Mrs. Rajvansh, these are your copies of the documents.
Please take good care of them.
You can read them if you need to—
And if you have any questions,
you can call me.
All the details of your accounts are also in here."
With that, he departed.
---
Although the lawyer had left,
Manal's mind became even more confused.
Which accounts?
Which property?
And since when had she become the owner of these things?
She had thought this was a deal,
a transaction… where in return she had to give everything –
her respect, and her emotions too.
Now this sudden property transfer,
and such conditions?
She started suspecting Aditya—
What was all this really about?
Did Aditya want a permanent relationship with her, or was some other game afoot…?
-
"I have to go to Australia tonight.
I need to do some preparations,
and there's some paperwork left at the office.
I'll complete it once I get there."
As Aditya was leaving, he said,
"And yes, Manal,
if you need to go to the office, you can go with Adhiraj.
I've already told him.
Finish your work and come back with him."
Manal wanted to talk to him,
but Aditya was in a hurry.
So, the conversation couldn't happen.
--
There was a reception that night,
and everyone at home was getting ready.
The makeup artist had finished and left after preparing Manal.
Standing in front of the mirror— she was admiring herself.
A pink lehenga, diamond jewelry, her long hair let loose—
She looked like a fairy.
Just then, the door opened—
Aditya entered the room.
Aditya looked extremely attractive in his black suit.
Manal felt— perhaps this was an opportunity to talk.
Aditya slowly stood behind her.
His warm breath brushed against Manal's neck.
He whispered near her ears.
Anger began to surge within Manal.
Looking at himself in the mirror, Aditya said,
"Wife, are you angry?
I can show you this much affection…
I'm not showing it on your face,
otherwise, your makeup would be ruined…
Before going to Australia tonight, let's see,
if we can spend some time together…"
Manal remained silent. She gave no reply.
---
Aditya put his arms around her waist from behind,
and resting her head on his shoulder, he said,
"Tell me, wife,
I'm asking you something…"
Manal remained silent for a while.
Then she slowly said,
"...Okay..."
"Oh, what's this?
Such a dry answer?
You should have happily said 'yes'!"
Aditya's gaze did not leave her face.
---
"Let's leave now,
Mom has called twice…"
he said.
The entire family had reached the reception venue,
only Aditya and Manal were left.
They left together.
Aditya held her hand the entire way.
Manal wanted to talk to him about her grandmother's property—
but Aditya was in a playful mood.
He was taking everything lightly.
-
Manal sat silently,
her head bowed— looking out the window.
"What happened, Manal? What are you thinking about?"
"Nothing…"
**"Don't worry about anything now.
The danger to your factory is now over.
Reeta, Prera, and Ratan Kumar
are managing your office and factory well.
Reeta is perfect in the office,
Ratan will handle every problem at the factory.
Your father will also recover soon—
I've spoken to the doctor.
And your brother's studies are also about to be completed—
when he returns, he will manage the factory.
So now you don't need to worry about anything."**
---
"Can I ask you something?"
"Yes, tell me… wife, is this even something to ask?
I am entirely yours—
You can ask me anything you want."
"...You said that my father's accident...
didn't happen... it was caused...
Can you tell me something about it?"
Aditya became a little serious.
"Look, I just suspect it.
Everything will be known very soon.
Don't you worry.
Besides, I am with you.
As long as I am here,
you don't need to worry about anything."
There was confidence in his words.
Manal's heart felt a little lighter.
She felt a sense of relief.
---
Just as she was lost in that trust,
Aditya said in a light tone:
"Just keep me happy…"
And with that, he gave a wink.
This one line ignited a fire within Manal.
She abruptly pulled her hand away from Aditya's,
and started looking out the window.
Aditya, with a mischievous smile,
leaned down and kissed her cheek.
---
Once Manal heard Aditya's words, her mind felt a little lighter. She felt a sense of peace, as if the turmoil within her had been momentarily calmed. The very next moment, she spoke in a soft voice, "Just keep me happy..."
And then she connected her gaze with Aditya's eyes. Hearing her words, something ignited within Manal. She thought, "This person will never change..."
Silently, she withdrew her hand from Aditya's grip and began looking out the window. Without saying anything, Aditya stepped forward and gave her cheek a light kiss.
Manal's heart also stirred, missing a beat—but she didn't let any emotion show on her face. She remained seated silently, just as before.
In a short while, the car stopped in front of the grand hotel where the reception was to be held. In fact, this hotel also belonged to the Aditya dynasty. He had chosen his own hotel for this special occasion.
As soon as they stepped out of the car, the media surrounded them. Aditya casually put his arm around Manal's waist and stood very close to her.
The reporters began bombarding them with questions—"Sir, is your marriage a love marriage or an arranged marriage?"
Aditya looked at Manal with a smile and said, "What do you think?"
A reporter immediately said, "Only you can tell us. What can we say? Your name was never linked with any girl... and now suddenly marriage?"
Another reporter chimed in, "Your younger brother's marriage already happened, we've been waiting for news of your marriage for so long..."
Aditya laughed and said, "What can we do now... it took so much time to convince her. She was a love from college days who was upset... it was bound to take some time now that she's agreed."
Everyone laughed.
A reporter quipped, "So, Madam wasn't ready for marriage?"
Aditya lowered his gaze and said jokingly, "Of course not! She disliked us. It was very difficult to get her to like our love. I thought I might remain a bachelor my whole life."
Another question came from the crowd, "Millions of girls die for you... yet you chose her? What was special about her?"
Aditya smiled and said, "Our heart was set on her. We've known her since she was a junior in our college."
"So, you were both in the same college?"
"Absolutely! She was doing B.Com, and we were doing MBA."
After this, Aditya bid farewell to the media, saying, "Now, please permit us, the reception is about to start. You are all invited, please come inside and dine with us."
---
The hotel was as magnificent from the inside as it was from the outside. Lights, flower decorations, and music – everything was incredibly royal.
The hall was already filled with guests. People had come from all over the country and abroad. Only the groom and bride were being awaited.
As soon as Manal stepped inside, she was stunned by what she saw. Aditya, who stood with her outside in front of the media, was now introducing her to everyone as his wife.
She was thinking, "Considering the condition on which he married me, should I ever expect respect from him?"
But the truth was, today Aditya was respecting her in front of everyone. Big industrialists, politicians, and famous personalities were coming up to her, shaking hands, and smiling.
Throughout the entire event, Aditya did not leave Manal's side. At all times, he was close to her—his arm around her waist, as if wanting to convey, "She is mine."
And not just Manal, Aditya also gave immense respect to her mother—Deepa Ji. He was interacting with her warmly. Deepa Ji also appeared comfortable and happy for the first time.
Aditya said to her, "Don't worry about anything now. Not about the factory, not about Manal, not about her father. I am here now—taking care of everything. All your worries are mine now."
Deepa Ji was very pleased hearing his words.
Meanwhile, Manal, standing in a corner, was thinking, "My mother is so naive... she doesn't know what the deal is behind all this. She doesn't realize that this man sees everything as a business deal—even relationships..."
---
The reception event was now nearing its end. All the guests were gradually departing.
Just then, Aditya took Manal's hand and led her aside.
"I am going to Australia for a few days... there are business deals there, it might take time."
Manal said in a flat tone, "Okay."
But internally, she felt a sense of satisfaction—as if she would get some time to spend alone.
Aditya smiled and said, "Don't be happy so soon, baby... I'm going for a few days... not for a few years."
Saying this, he spread his arms and hugged her to his chest.
Manal remained standing without any reaction.
"At least remember the deal..." Aditya said, smiling.
Manal slowly placed her arms on his back.
Aditya pulled her closer and said, "You will miss me, won't you, wife... even if it's by cursing me..."
She remained silent.
"Oh, at least keep my heart... just say yes, I will miss you... as if I was going to look inside your heart?"
Manal gave no answer.
Even in her silence, it was as if thousands of words were hidden.
--
The Aditya dynasty had moved to Australia.
That night, Manal lay alone in her bed. Her eyes were sleepless, but her heart and mind were in turmoil. Staring at the ceiling, she wondered,
"How did things come to this..."
"I used to be my father's darling, his cherished daughter... and today? What has Aditya made of me?"
At that moment, another thought crossed her mind –
"It's only been two days since our wedding... and in these two days, Aditya hasn't misbehaved with me even once. Nothing happened as he had said. In fact, he has kept every promise he made."
"But me...? I haven't been able to do anything according to that deal yet..."
She tossed and turned restlessly. She couldn't understand what was right and what was wrong.
When sleep refused to come, she got up and turned on the TV.
As soon as she changed the channel, pictures of her and Aditya were playing everywhere. Pictures from their reception, videos of their statements in the media – everything.
The anchor on TV was saying:
"Made for each other – Aditya and Manal. Their chemistry is so brilliant that onlookers can't help but stare."
A clip was playing on screen – showing Aditya smiling lovingly into Manal's eyes.
For a moment, Manal also smiled. That scene... those words... they left a certain depth in her eyes.
But soon, her smile vanished.
"How can I forget... I know who Aditya is. I know his true face."
"He's a cheat... a playboy... and perhaps still is. That's why I put conditions on that marriage. I can't forget all this just like that..."
---
That first meeting... in the college lanes
Manal had taken admission in B.Com in a college where Aditya was in his final year of MBA. In college, everyone knew him as "Adi" – the spoiled son of a rich father.
His influence was such that most girls in college were smitten with him. A new car, a new watch, a new jacket every day – he lacked nothing.
But Manal was neither impressed by his status nor his looks.
She was a sensible, cheerful girl who kept to herself.
While Aditya was handsome and stylish, Manal was stunningly beautiful – fair complexion, sharp nose, large dark eyes, dimples on her cheeks, and hair that reached her waist.
In a way, both held an image of fairies and princes in their own right.
---
One night, Manal went to her friend's birthday party. It got late on her way back. All her friends got off at their respective homes, and finally, Manal was alone.
She was sitting in a taxi. But as the road became deserted, the taxi driver stopped the car and looked at her with menacing eyes.
Manal had gauged his intentions. Frightened, she got out of the taxi and started running, but the driver caught her.
Just then, the sound of a bike was heard from a distance.
Aditya was on his bike – he was passing by. Hearing the girl's scream, he stopped and immediately reached the spot.
As soon as he saw that the girl was Manal, his temper flared.
He thoroughly beat up the taxi driver.
Trembling with fear, Manal ran and hugged Aditya. That night, Aditya dropped her home.
But on his way out... he took her heart with him.
---
After that night, everything changed.
Manal started liking Aditya.
They started meeting in college. They began talking. Slowly, their friendship deepened.
And one day, Aditya proposed to her.
Manal's happiness knew no bounds. She felt as if her fairy tale had begun.
She started dreaming of a life with him.
But for Aditya... it was perhaps just another "timepass."
Although he had never crossed a line with Manal, still... it was difficult to trust his intentions.
One day – Manal's aunt, who had returned from abroad, came to stay at her maternal home for a few days.
Her husband was no more, and her children had moved abroad. She wanted Manal to come and study with her so that she wouldn't feel lonely.
Manal's father liked this suggestion.
That morning, Manal called Aditya and informed him that she wouldn't be able to come to college.
But as the day progressed, her mind became restless.
"She should go and explain this to him herself..." – with this thought, she reached the college.
---
Outside the college, she asked a friend –
"Has Aditya come?"
"Yes, his car is parked near the lawn."
Manal called him several times, but his phone was on silent.
She went straight to the car.
The door was open – perhaps they had forgotten.
As she opened the door, she was stunned for a few moments.
Aditya... with another girl... was extremely close.
Manal closed her eyes.
Her breath caught in her throat.
She ran away from there without saying anything, without hearing anything...
As soon as Manal saw Aditya's car, she walked straight towards it. The door was unlocked, perhaps left open by mistake. And then, what she saw—
It was a scene that shook her soul.
Aditya, with some other girl... in that state.
Manal immediately covered her eyes and ran away from there. Anger, insult, and hatred coursed through her veins.
She made up her mind at that very moment—
"I will never see this person's face again."
She felt that there was no room for any explanation anymore. That one sight had revealed Aditya's true nature to her.
---
Manal left college without telling anyone. Her aunt had already been calling her to her place. Silently, she left everything and went to her city.
She didn't try to meet Aditya,
Didn't complain,
Didn't ask for any explanation.
She changed her mobile number.
Deleted her Facebook and Instagram profiles.
Broke ties with all her friends.
It was as if she had completely disappeared from this world.
---
She had developed a strange fear of Aditya.
"What if he starts blackmailing me..."
Because she knew that boys like Aditya only wanted one thing from girls.
But she was grateful to herself that she had never let Aditya cross those limits.
Today, all she had was regret—
"I loved a person who wasn't worthy of it."
She promised herself that she would forget him at all costs.
---
Meanwhile, Aditya was surprised by Manal's sudden disappearance.
He called, texted—but all in vain.
Then he went to her friend Neha.
"Where is Manal? Any number? Address?"
Neha replied curtly:
"Don't know. She has left college. And is no longer in touch with me."
Aditya was shocked,
"How can that be? You are her best friend..."
Neha's response was sharp:
"She has cut ties with all of us... just out of fear of you. She thinks you can ruin her life. And I don't know what happened between you two—only you would know. But because of you, our deep friendship has been broken."
---
Aditya understood everything.
Yes, she had seen him—with that girl. And now she hated Aditya.
In her eyes, Aditya was a "cheap" person.
And perhaps she wasn't wrong...
Because out of all the girls who had come into his life so far, many had reached his bed—but none had reached his heart.
Manal was the first girl who had touched his heart.
He liked spending time with her. And that was the reason he had never done much with Manal.
After that day, Aditya started to change.
---
Slowly, he ended all his flirtatious relationships.
He maintained a distance with those he was friends with.
As soon as his MBA was complete, he immersed himself in his father's hotel business.
Aditya's family was already a very big name. They had hotels in major cities of India, but Aditya expanded this chain to foreign countries.
Now he had become a successful and busy businessman.
His name started to be recognized in the business world.
But no girl... came into his life again.
Proposals from many prominent girls came, but he dodged them every time.
---
When destiny crossed paths again
And then, after years—
He saw Manal.
In some office, sitting in a corner, looking very distressed.
The same innocence... the same deep eyes.
But there were lines of worry on her face.
Aditya's heart started beating again.
He tried to talk, but Manal ignored him.
She walked past him as if she had never known him.
---
Aditya later found out—
Manal's father had an accident, he was in a coma.
The entire factory responsibility fell on Manal.
She was worried, scared... and alone.
Aditya decided—
"I will help her. I will ease her every difficulty."
But he knew—
"She won't accept help from me. She hates me."
But he also wanted to win Manal over.
So he made a plan.
---
He made an offer to Manal—
"Marry me. I will get your factory and family out of this trouble."
Manal was shocked.
She felt—
"Is all this just because he wants to possess me?"
But she saw no other way. The factory was sinking, her mother's life was in danger, and her father was in a coma.
Finally, she agreed to marry him, with a condition.
---
Manal was convinced that Aditya would do something wrong to her.
But after marriage... he never crossed any limits.
He gave her respect, honored her mother, and held her hand throughout the reception.
He proudly said everywhere,
"This is my wife..."
All this was shocking for Manal.
She was lost in thought—
"Has Aditya really changed?"
---
Now Aditya was going to Australia.
His heart ached—
"I was her love... now I am just a necessity for her."
He thought—
"I made myself the villain of my love story... now it will take time to complete it by becoming the hero..."
---
Manal felt a flicker of relief for the first time upon hearing the news of the Aditya dynasty's departure to Australia.
She thought to herself,
"Well, even if it's just for a few days... I'm rid of him."
For the past two days, she had been feeling a strange suffocation.
As if Aditya's presence in every breath was bothering her.
She wanted to be alone for a while.
She wanted to calm the storm raging within her.
She knew—
Aditya hadn't crossed any boundaries with her yet.
But she also knew that when he returned,
He would try to fulfill all his "unfinished desires" on her.
"He only helped me so he could have me."
This thought scared her the most.
In the silence of the night, she tossed and turned for a long time.
She thought,
"When Aditya touches me... how will I feel?"
Her thoughts kept circling,
"If he had gotten me in college days... perhaps he wouldn't have married me today.
Now that he couldn't back then, he's in a hurry to complete everything."
The night passed in this turmoil... and she didn't even realize when she fell asleep.
---
When she woke up in the morning, it was quite late.
Her eyes were heavy, her head felt burdened.
As she got out of bed, she muttered,
"I slept cursing Aditya all night... how could I possibly sleep..."
Somehow getting up, she went to the bathroom.
Meanwhile, her phone kept ringing.
She thought it might be her mother calling.
She hadn't spoken to her properly since the wedding.
But as soon as she came out and looked at her phone—
"Aditya again!"
For a moment, she felt like smashing the phone against the wall.
"He just left yesterday... then why call so early in the morning?
Doesn't he have any other work besides bothering me?"
She stared at the phone screen for a long time,
Then reluctantly picked up the call.
As soon as she picked up, Aditya's voice came,
"What is it, wife... why did it take so long to answer the phone?
I thought you wouldn't have slept all night missing me..."
Manal gave no response.
"What happened, Mana... where did you drift off?"
Aditya spoke again.
Hearing the name "Mana"—Manal was even more irritated.
She knew that only those people used this name with whom she was deeply connected.
And she didn't want Aditya to be on that list.
She said in a curt tone,
"Tell me, why did you call? Was there something important?"
"What else... I thought you were missing me.
I thought, let me let you hear my voice.
Ordinary wives make their husbands' lives hell...
They call repeatedly asking – what are you doing, what are you eating...
And you haven't even made one call.
We just got married, and you don't miss me at all?"
Manal remained silent.
"You slept without me last night, Mana?"
There was mischief in Aditya's voice.
Manal thought to herself,
"Yes, I did... and I slept very peacefully... because you weren't there..."
But she couldn't say all this.
She wanted the conversation to end as soon as possible.
Finally, she said,
"Did you reach safely?"
Aditya repeated the question—
"You didn't answer my question...
Did you miss me?"
Manal stood silently with the phone to her ear.
Aditya's words echoed in her mind,
But she couldn't say a word.
She was thinking—
"When he is far away now and torturing me this much...
What will happen when he returns?
Where will I go... whom will I ask for help?"
Aditya said with a laugh,
"Okay Mana, I just called to hear your voice.
I'll be back soon... don't miss me too much until then..."
The call ended.
As soon as the call ended, Manal felt her breath return.
"Thank God... even if it's for a little while... I'm rid of him..."
She took a deep breath, picked up a towel, and headed towards the bathroom.
--
Standing under the shower, Manal tried to calm herself for a long time.
She didn't want anyone to be able to read the worry on her face.
Today was her second day in her in-laws' house, and she wanted to behave like an ideal daughter-in-law.
"If I have to live here... I must live with respect..."
She picked out a light saree and wore it.
She tied her hair, applied minimal makeup, and went downstairs.
---
Part 4: A New Family
As soon as she reached downstairs—
"Good morning Mummy ji, good morning Daddy ji."
Dharmpal ji smiled and said,
"Come beta, good morning... sit with us."
He gestured towards the chair next to him.
Manal sat there.
"This is the difference between boys and girls,"
Dharmpal ji said,
"Girls sit with their parents, and boys run far away.
When Nisha is home, she drinks her morning tea with us.
But our two worthless sons are never seen."
Manal laughed.
She found Dharmpal ji's words to be like those of a true father.
"Beta, just as Aditya is to me, you are too.
Not just a daughter-in-law of this house, but my daughter..."
Manal's voice choked up.
She gave a short reply—
"Yes Dad..."
Deepa ji was also looking at her with great affection.
"Beta, this is your home.
Whether Aditya is home or not, you are the eldest daughter-in-law of this house.
Never feel uncomfortable about anything..."
These loving words brought Manal a sense of peace.
"I wish Aditya was like this too..."
She thought to herself.
---
At that moment, Adhiraj arrived.
He said with a laugh,
"Good morning Bhabhi...
You slept without Bhai, didn't you?
Your face tells me you tossed and turned all night.
It's okay, Bhaiya will be back soon.
Actually, he didn't want to be away from you for even a minute..."
Manal smiled, but said nothing in reply.
"Bhaiya used to run away from the very idea of marriage.
But when it came to you, it was a quick engagement and a quick wedding.
He rejected so many girls!"
Adhiraj's words were light-hearted, but Manal's mind was occupied with something else.
To change the subject, she asked,
"I don't see Naina and the children?"
"They haven't woken up yet.
It got quite late at the reception last night.
The children are also tired... and they didn't have to go to school today."
Deepa ji informed.
---
While drinking tea, Manal said to Deepa ji,
"Mummy ji, I wanted your permission for something..."
"Yes beta, tell me. What's there to ask permission for? Say whatever you want openly..."
---
"...Mom, I needed to ask for your permission..." Manal said softly, looking at Anita ji.
Anita ji smiled, "Yes, dear, speak. What's there to ask? Say what you want openly."
Manal said with a little hesitation, "...If you say so, can I go see my mother for a day? I'll see Dad too... and Bua ji is also leaving soon, so I wanted to meet her too. I just needed your permission, if you don't mind..."
Anita ji said with great affection, "Is this something to ask, dear? You go meet them. What objection could I possibly have? Alright, Aditya isn't home right now. So, you go to Deepa ji's place for two days. She must be missing you a lot too. Go there directly after office today."
Manal beamed, "Okay Mom, I'll go straight there after office. I'll call Mom now and let her know..."
***
After a full day's work at the office, when Manal reached her maternal home in the evening, she felt as if she had been freed from captivity. The walls of the house, the courtyard, her mother's scent – everything was giving her solace. "As if I've stepped into this house after so many years..." these thoughts were swirling in her mind.
Her mother, Deepa ji, was overjoyed to see her. Embracing her daughter, she said, "Manal, you've come, dear... I was very restless..."
***
Deepa ji stroked her head lovingly and said, "See, dear, how the circumstances were at that time... We felt that nothing would be saved. Dad's health... the factory's condition... and the bank loan... At such a time, if Aditya hadn't been there... everything would have fallen apart..."
Manal listened to her silently.
Deepa ji continued, "The doctor also said that your father will regain consciousness in a few days. And most importantly, I got a son-in-law like Aditya. How well he takes care of you and us... He's managing the business too... Despite being the son of such a big family, he's so responsible... You are so lucky, dear..."
Manal just gave a slight smile and nodded her head. She couldn't break her mother's heart. How could she explain that this marriage happened on a condition – a condition which, if known, might prevent her mother from ever smiling again.
***
Bua ji was also there. She also praised Aditya a lot. "Look, dear, it's hard to find such a boy nowadays. You are very fortunate to have a life partner like Aditya. Even though his brother is ill, he married his niece into such a good family. How much respect they have for you!"
Manal smiled again. Her heart was burning inside, but she didn't let a single wrinkle show on her face.
***
In these two days, Aditya didn't call Manal even once. Manal breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank God he didn't call... Could he be busy with someone else there?" She shrugged and said to herself, "Anyway, he must have some girlfriend there..." She let out a faint laugh.
***
When Manal returned to Rajvansh House, her sleep was suddenly broken that very night. She felt a broad chest pressed against her back. A heavy hand on her waist, and someone's warm breath on her neck. Her eyes flew open. "What is this...?" Turning around, she saw Aditya! He was sleeping beside her.
Manal sat up in a panic. "Hey Mana, what happened? Do people wake up like this?" Aditya also woke up and pulled her into his arms.
"...I'm... going to the bathroom..." saying this, she went into the bathroom.
***
In the bathroom, she kept questioning herself, "Now how do I go back to bed...? He's lying there..." She sat in the bathroom for a long time, hoping Aditya would fall asleep again. When she returned, she lay down at a distance.
But Aditya pulled her close to him again. His hand was on Manal's waist, and then it moved to her stomach. Then he lifted her t-shirt slightly and placed his hand on her skin. Manal's heartbeats quickened. She started trembling. "What if... this goes further..." She was panicked. She held Aditya's hand tightly.
Aditya smiled gently – he understood that Manal was scared. "I've been used to sleeping with my hand on my stomach since childhood... Why are you scared now..." Aditya's voice held truth, not mischief. After a while, he fell asleep, and then Manal also drifted off.
***
When she opened her eyes in the morning, she found herself resting her head on Aditya's arm. She sat up in panic. "Relax... relax..." Aditya said, "You looked so lovely... that I didn't want to wake you up. I even felt like doing something 'wrong' to you..." He winked mischievously.
Manal glared at him. "You were sleeping in my arms, and now you're scaring me with such big eyes?" Aditya said, laughing. "You should be thankful that I let you sleep peacefully for so long!"
Manal changed the subject, "When did you come? I didn't even know..."
"At night... I came quietly... so as not to disturb you..." he said with a smile.
***
There was a knock on the door. Manal got up to open it, but Aditya stopped her, "You stay, I'll see..." The maid brought tea. Aditya took the tea and gave a cup to Manal as well.
Sipping the tea, Aditya asked again, "Mana, tell me honestly – how much did you miss me?" Manal looked at him – and thought to herself, "There is no bigger liar than this man. If he missed me so much, why did he only call once? For the rest of the days, I didn't even hear his voice..."
Aditya said mischievously again, "By the way, you shouldn't scare anyone with your eyes like that... Show a little love..."
***
(To be continued...)
Sipping tea, Aditya smiled and said, "Tell me the truth... how much did you miss me? By the way, I missed you a lot. I missed you every day... I wasn't feeling good at all without you..."
Manal quietly raised her eyes towards Aditya and thought to herself, "How he lies... he only called once, he didn't even remember me on other days... If he missed me so much, why didn't he call even once?"
As if Aditya had read her thoughts, he smiled and said, "That's not true... you shouldn't look at someone like that, trying to scare them with your eyes..."
Manal understood that he wouldn't leave her alone. Finishing her tea, she stood up, "I'll go take a bath... it's gotten quite late... everyone downstairs must be waiting for us..." Saying this, she picked up her towel and headed towards the bathroom.
---
When she came out after bathing, she saw Aditya wasn't in the room. She breathed a sigh of relief. She got ready and went downstairs. Downstairs, Aditya was sitting with the whole family at the dining table, handing out gifts to everyone. Adhiraj's two children were clinging to him, making him open gifts while shouting, "Chachu-Chachu!"
Manal stood in a corner, just watching. "He should have at least bathed and dressed properly, he just got up and came down..." she fumed inwardly. She was starting to get irritated by Aditya's every habit.
---
After breakfast, Aditya returned to the room and started getting ready for office. "I've brought something for you... it's in the blue bag. Open it and see, maybe you'll like it. And yes, wear it and show me..." he said while rummaging through the wardrobe. "Manal, can you just look... I can't find my black shirt..."
Manal couldn't refuse. She moved towards the wardrobe to find his shirt. Just then, Aditya came up behind her, put his arms around her waist, and rested his chin on her shoulder. His cheek was touching Manal's cheek. Manal looked around nervously. "Hey wife... what are you looking around for? Find my shirt... I'm getting late..." The shirt was right in front. Manal quickly took it out and handed it to him. "Let me go... you'll be late for office... get ready..." "Then should I not go... If you say so, I'll stay home today..." he said, kissing her cheek lightly.
Manal closed her eyes in anger, then said in a soft voice, "No, you should go to the office. I also have to go to the office... there's very important work... Let's meet in the evening!" Aditya understood her fear and hesitation, but he was only enjoying it.
---
"Hey wife... If you say so, let's both take leave from office today. Let's spend quality time together... hmm?" Manal lied, "I would have taken leave today, but I had important meetings scheduled... I didn't know you were coming today..." "It's okay... Just come back early in the evening. And yes, there's a nightdress for you in the blue bag. Wear it tonight and show me... let's see how you look..." Hearing Aditya's words, Manal's mood worsened. A wave of anger was on her face, but she controlled herself. She understood – Aditya had come today with "something else" in mind for her.
---
Aditya went to the office. Manal also reached her office. But her mind wasn't focused on work. She was constantly thinking about the night. "What will he do tonight?" Her mind was restless. She could clearly see Aditya's intentions today. And she knew – this was the night for which this marriage had happened. She wanted to avoid it.
---
Another thought was running through Manal's mind – her grandmother's will. The lawyer had given her some documents and account details. He had said she could spend that money as she wished. Manal had everything, but she wanted answers, not money. "Was this will really made to keep us tied to each other?" She was also told that according to the conditions of this will, she and Aditya could not get a divorce. She wanted to talk to Aditya openly about this – but how could she? Whenever Aditya was near her, he never let her bring up the topic. Every time, his behavior was filled with mischief, flirting, and jokes.
---
Night began to fall. After dinner, Aditya went to his room. Manal deliberately stayed downstairs with Naina and Anita Ji. She was thinking inwardly, "If I keep sitting here for a long time, Aditya will get tired and fall asleep..." She was hoping, "Maybe I'll be spared tonight..." But does what we think always happen?
---
A little later, Aditya himself came down the stairs and said, standing below, "Manal, I can't find one of my files. I kept it in the room before going to Australia. Can you come and take a look?" Manal held her forehead. "Does this man ever get any peace...? Is this a pretense for the file or some other intention?" Naina said with a laugh, "Brother is calling you... he doesn't feel good without you!" Anita Ji said, "Go, daughter, go. If your work is done, go and see what file he needs. Naina, you go to your room too." Now Manal had no other option. With a heavy heart, she started climbing the stairs...
Manal smacked herself on the forehead when she saw Aditya.
"...This man doesn't get any peace...
He always finds an excuse to call me.
After all, I was going to come to the room anyway...
Was I supposed to stay in the lobby all night..."
As she stood there thinking, Naina said with a laugh,
"Brother is calling you...
He doesn't feel right without you.
Poor thing, he's returned from Australia after so many days...
He'll miss you, won't he!"
Anita ji also said with a smile,
"Go, dear, go and see.
Find the file Aditya needs and give it to him.
Naina, you go to your room now too."
Finally, Manal had to go, her heart heavy.
---
As soon as Manal entered the room,
Aditya, who was sitting propped against the bed, said—
"Hey Mana, what took you so long downstairs!
I've been waiting for you for ages...
It's been quite a while since we ate...
You should have come sooner.
Now I had to use the file as an excuse to call you..."
Manal replied with a slight smile—
"I was just helping Mom downstairs...
That's why it got late..."
She couldn't say it directly that
she was deliberately waiting for Aditya to sleep.
All her plans had failed.
--
"Leave all that aside...
Look, I brought some gifts for you.
Take a look, see how you like them...
I bought them keeping your preferences in mind..."
Aditya said excitedly.
But as soon as the word "gifts" reached her ears,
Manal remembered the nightdress.
Sweat broke out on her forehead.
"Oh God! Now I have to wear it!"
She thought, holding her forehead.
She knew very well that
unless she wore that dress,
Aditya wouldn't let it go.
--
While she was still thinking, Aditya said—
"Okay, show me your hand..."
Manal, surprised, extended her hand.
"Now what is he going to do...
First the nightdress, now my hand...
This man comes up with a new drama every day..."
She was thinking when Aditya
gently slipped a beautiful diamond ring onto her finger.
He held her hand and kissed it. ❤️
Manal was a little flustered, then said—
"It's very beautiful... but what was the need?
I already have enough jewelry..."
Aditya smiled,
"It is beautiful... but not more than you.
And you didn't ask why
I gave you this ring today..."
Manal asked with a sigh—
"Why...? Why did you give me this ring?"
Aditya replied mischievously—
"It's my 'muh dikhai' (gift for showing the bride's face).
That day you were asleep
when I came back from talking on the phone.
You were sleeping and looked so lovely...
I didn't feel like waking you up.
So I thought I'd give it today...
because at night, I'll forget everything..."
His eyes seemed to be filled with the intoxication of love.
---
Aditya's eyes seemed to be saying something else.
He wanted to live this relationship not just physically,
but from the depths of his heart.
He knew that Manal hadn't understood him yet.
"...Hey Mana, what are you thinking?
Don't you like this ring?"
Aditya said softly.
"If you don't like it, I'll get another one...
Come, sit near me."
He pulled Manal closer.
Manal's heartbeats quickened.
"You want to say something?
If so, say it... Don't hide it from me..."
She stammered—
"...Actually... I... need time..."
Aditya asked seriously—
"For what?"
She lowered her gaze and said—
"I... before taking this relationship forward...
I need some time.
If you don't mind..."
She trembled thinking that
"For the reason Aditya married me,
now I am stopping that very thing...
Will he accept this?"
---
Aditya listened to her silently.
After a while, he said—
"Alright... but I have one condition...
If you agree, listen..."
Manal said without thinking—
"Okay..."
"Then listen, we won't take this relationship forward
until you want to.
But you will stay with me—
in my room, on my bed.
I can hold you in my arms whenever I want,
I can love you—
without any interference..."
Manal held her head.
"Oh God! I should have said 'yes' after hearing him out completely!"
She regretted now
why she had hastily said "Okay".
-
Aditya asked again—
"How much time do you need? Tell me today..."
Manal started thinking about
what to say—
she wanted to say two weeks.
"...One... not one, two..."
She was about to say it when
Aditya interrupted—
"Okay, two months!
No problem... these will pass too..."
Manal was stunned.
"I only wanted to say two weeks,
but he himself gave me two months!"
---
Aditya knew—
Manal hated him right now.
Perhaps she was in this relationship only for her father.
But he wanted to win her heart at any cost.
He wanted
Manal to know—
that his love was true.
---
Manal hesitantly asked—
"I had something on my mind...
Can I ask you?"
"Ask... ask whatever you want to ask..."
Aditya said with a smile.
"...That day the lawyer had us sign the will...
Father had told me something about Nana's will,
but I didn't understand what he said..."
"...What was in that will
that they felt it necessary to tell me after our marriage?"
"I have something on my mind... Can I ask you something? I've been wanting to ask for days..."
Manal looked at Aditya hesitantly.
"...Ask away, what is it? You can ask me any questions you have on your mind.
You don't need my permission to ask questions..."
Aditya said with a smile.
"...That day, the lawyer had me sign Nani ji's will...
Dad had told me something about the will,
but I didn't quite understand what he said.
I wanted to know about that... I have many questions about the will..."
Manal said shyly.
"...I think Dad told you everything that day.
There was nothing left to tell.
It's a simple matter – it's my Nani's property.
Since my mother was her only child,
all her property became mine after her.
Now, after marriage, both of us are the owners of that property.
But neither you can sell it,
nor can I.
We can only give it to our children,
that too when they turn eighteen.
If we get divorced before that,
that property will go directly to an ashram in Banaras.
Then neither I will get it, nor you.
Yes, the income from that property,
we will both get it half and half —
which we don't have to account for to anyone.
You can spend that money as you wish..."
Aditya explained in detail.
"Did Dad tell you this, right?"
"...Yes, he did tell me..."
Manal said softly.
"...Then what's the confusion?
It's a very straightforward matter.
Do you find anything complicated about it?"
"...You knew all this beforehand, didn't you?
The conditions of the will...
That's what I'm talking about..."
Manal asked, looking at him.
"...Yes, absolutely.
I've known this since childhood.
Everyone knows about Nani Maa's will.
Ever since I gained consciousness,
I've known that I won't get Nani Maa's property,
but my children will —
when my marriage is intact..."
Aditya replied calmly.
"...Knowing about this will, you still married me?"
Manal's eyes widened in surprise.
"...What does this will have to do with our marriage?
Marriage is one thing, the will is another.
The girl I marry,
she will have rights to this property.
If I divorce her,
my rights will also disappear.
It's a simple matter..."
Aditya said, fixing his gaze.
"...You married me under a deal.
When that deal is fulfilled,
perhaps you'll want to divorce me.
So, would you want your property to just go away like that?
You would cease to be the owner of that property?"
Manal said with a slightly rough tone.
"...Why, what deal did we have?
Divorce was never discussed.
We only talked about marriage..."
Aditya said in a calm tone.
"...You don't know?
Under what deal did you marry me?
Yes, it's true that nothing was directly said about divorce,
but that deal... everyone knows..."
"...I know...
Still, I want to hear it from your mouth.
Yes, tell me once...
Where did this talk of divorce come from now?"
Aditya looked deeply into her eyes.
It was very difficult for Manal to say this,
but still, she gathered courage and said —
"...That you will help me...
And... and in return...
You will spend one or more nights with me..."
As she said this, her eyes welled up,
which she tried hard to hide —
but nothing was hidden from Aditya's eyes.
He said softly —
"...Yes, so when did I say I would want to divorce you?
I only talked about marriage with you.
It has nothing to do with Nani's will.
When we have children, and they turn eighteen,
we will give them the property.
What else is there to it?"
"...I mean..."
Manal started to stammer.
"...Yes-yes, speak..."
Aditya encouraged her.
"...When I stop being likable to you,
when you get bored of me,
you will eventually divorce me...
And if you divorce me,
all that property will be gone.
The reason you married me,
you won't want to spend your whole life with me for that reason...
Divorce is certain one day..."
Her voice choked.
Aditya smiled —
"...So that's the issue?
Oh, I didn't think that far...
But I have a solution for this too..."
Manal looked at him, surprised.
"...Look 😜 nothing will happen in one go,
then in the second time... if not in the second time,
then the third.
Meaning, we both will try, right...
We'll see how much effort it takes for our baby.
Then 9 months... then he'll be eighteen years old...
Then we'll happily transfer the property in his name.
Actually, we won't have to transfer it,
it will automatically become his.
We can even divorce after that!
And it's also possible that
our child won't let us divorce...
We won't be able to go against him, will we...
We'll have to obey his every command!"
Saying this, Aditya put on a very serious face.
"...But the reason for the delay is you.
Everything is stalled because of you..."
He said, laughing.
"...Me? How so?"
Manal asked, surprised.
"...Look, the effort before the 9 months,
you're not allowing it.
If you want, those 9 months can come sooner..."
A mischievousness now gleamed on Aditya's face.
Manal looked at him as if
a child was reading a math problem for the first time.
"...One shouldn't say everything so directly,
a person should understand a bit themselves..."
Aditya thought to himself.
"...No problem, did you understand?"
He asked.
"...No..."
Manal shook her head.
"...Oh, you know, what you said about needing two months' time.
If you didn't take those two months,
then these 9 months could have come sooner.
Then our child would have turned eighteen,
and then we would have transferred the property in his name.
Look, I'm ready...
But you're the one not letting me come close..."
Now Manal understood Aditya's meaning.
"Oh God!"
She said to herself and stood up angrily.
"...I'm asking you something else,
and you keep diverting the conversation.
Can't you give a straight answer to any question?"
She said, exasperated.
"...I've only told the truth...
What's there to get angry about..."
Aditya said calmly.
Manal left the room without saying anything.
She saw mockery in Aditya's words,
while she was asking a serious question.
-
After she left, Aditya smiled quietly.
"...You are my wife...
You will also be the mother of my children.
What 18 years, we will spend our whole lives together.
I will make you realize my love.
You can't even imagine, Manal...
How much I love you.
I want to spend my life only with you —
whether it's in love... or in a fight... ❤️"
---
Maanal picked up a towel and went to the bathroom to bathe.
Aditya, meanwhile, stared at the wall, thinking,
"...You are my wife... you also have to become the mother of my children.
We will spend not just 18 years, but our entire lives together.
I don't know how to express my love, but I will definitely make you feel it.
You can't even imagine, Maanal, how much I love you.
I want to spend my entire life fighting and bickering with you..."
After some time, Maanal came out after bathing.
She was wearing lowers and a t-shirt.
She saw Aditya talking on the phone.
As soon as he hung up, Aditya smiled and said,
"Come on... get ready, wife."
"But... where? And at this time? It's quite late at night now..."
Maanal asked in surprise.
"It's a surprise!" Aditya said, his eyes twinkling,
"And surprises aren't revealed beforehand. Guess where we are going?"
He took her hand with a smile and led her to the car.
"Tell me, where are we going... and in these clothes?
Why are you creating so much suspense?
I'm getting nervous, why don't you tell me something?"
Maanal kept asking questions,
but Aditya silently started the car.
Maanal kept looking outside the entire way, trying to guess.
"...This road leads towards the hospital...
Are we going to the hospital? Is Dad okay?"
Worry was evident in her voice.
The car stopped in front of the hospital.
Aditya said with a smile,
"Come on, get down, wife... we've arrived where we needed to."
"Here? Dad is admitted here... Is everything alright?
I'm very worried about him..."
Maanal quickly got out.
Aditya started walking ahead, and Maanal ran behind him.
"Can't you walk slower?
I'm getting left behind...
I have to run after you..."
As soon as they reached the room,
Maanal saw her father sitting and smiling,
and her mother giving him medicine.
Aditya went forward and hugged Mahesh ji.
"Dad! How are you? How are you feeling now?"
Aditya asked emotionally.
Maanal was extremely happy to see her father looking relatively well in this condition,
but when she heard Aditya hugging her father and calling him "Dad,"
a spark ignited within her.
"...These are my parents... why is he hugging my father...?
What right does he have to call my father 'Dad'..."
She was fuming internally.
Maanal ran to her father and hugged him tightly.
Tears of mixed happiness and sadness welled up in her eyes.
"Dad... how are you? How are you feeling now?
When did you regain consciousness?"
Her voice trembled.
Mahesh ji hugged her to his chest and said,
"Why are you crying now, child? I am absolutely fine now.
How do you think your father would give up?
It was a bad time, it has passed. It's God's grace."
"Dad, how did you get so well in just one day?
You've even been shifted from the ICU to a room..."
Maanal asked in surprise.
"Son, not in one day...
I started regaining consciousness the very next day after your wedding.
But the doctors and your mother forbade anyone from telling.
There was a threat to life—everything was kept hidden due to security."
Before he could say anything more,
Aditya interrupted,
"Oh, Mom, please get me a cup of tea.
I'm really craving tea."
At the same time, he signaled something to Mahesh ji with his eyes.
Mahesh ji changed the subject.
But Maanal had seen the gesture.
She started suspecting Aditya now.
"...Dad, you were in a coma, and I got married...
How can a good daughter get married like this?
You must have felt bad, right?"
Her voice broke.
"Oh my child... I didn't feel bad at all.
Rather, I was very happy to regain consciousness.
I thanked God that
I got such a good son-in-law and family.
Even if I had searched myself, I wouldn't have found a son-in-law like Aditya.
I am very happy for you, dear."
"Now next month is coming,
your brother will arrive—he will manage the factory.
You manage your household.
I know you don't have a passion for business.
Now another wish has awakened in my heart...
to play with your children...
We want to hear 'Grandpa-Grandma' from your children..."
Hearing this, a mischievous grin spread across Aditya's face.
He secretly looked at Maanal and winked.
Maanal's blood boiled.
She felt like smashing Aditya's head.
"...What is going on...?
First, he talks about children,
now Dad has also started...
It seems the whole house is in cahoots to make me a mother...
I was thinking that once Dad got better,
I would divorce this Aditya...
Now everything is going in reverse..."
Deepa ji took control of the conversation and said,
"Son, it's very late now.
You two should go home now.
Come back tomorrow.
Dad also needs rest, and so do you."
"Mom, can't I stay here?
I feel like staying with Dad..."
Maanal said softly.
"No dear, only one attendant can stay here right now.
You come early in the morning..."
Deepa ji clearly refused.
Maanal didn't want to go at all,
but she had to go, albeit unwillingly.
Now she had another question in her mind—
"Why did Aditya stop Dad from saying something with a gesture?
What is he hiding from me?
Could it be that just like he made a deal with me,
he also did something similar with Dad...?
Did he force Dad into something?"
Doubt was deepening in her mind.
Now she would definitely get the answer from Aditya—
clearly and in plain words.
---
"...No, dear, you can't stay here. Only one person can stay with your father... You come in the morning. Now, you both go back from where you came..."
Deepa Ji forcibly sent them both away. Manal absolutely did not want to go. She had to return against her will. Numerous questions were arising in her mind—especially concerning Aditya.
"...Why did he stop Dad?... What was it that was said through gestures?... Is Aditya playing some game?... Did he make some deal with Dad, like he did with me?..."
Her suspicion was deepening now.
---
Manal and Aditya in the car
Manal was returning home from the hospital with Aditya. All the way, her mind was a storm of questions. She knew it would be useless to ask Aditya directly. He would beat around the bush, as he always did. "This time I have to adopt a method so that he cannot escape answering," she decided.
"Stop the car, Aditya!" Manal said suddenly.
"What happened? Is everything alright?" Aditya asked, stopping the car.
As soon as the car stopped, Manal opened the door and got out. Aditya immediately got out behind her.
"Why are you getting out in the middle of the road, Mana? What happened? I didn't bring you here by force, Mom sent me..."
"I also want to know what you said to Dad with gestures! I saw you holding his hand. I saw everything. Don't be too clever, Aditya!"
"I didn't do anything, you are mistaken... Come on, get in the car, don't behave like a child, Mana..."
"No! I will stay here. You tell the truth first."
Aditya tried his best to explain, but Mana wouldn't budge. She even decided to sit by the roadside.
"Okay, fine, stay here... It's midnight, you'll get scared and come back on your own... Thieves and robbers will carry you away!"
Aditya said while getting back into the car, but his joke didn't affect Manal. She sat quietly by the roadside.
---
Aditya gave in amidst anger and worry. He got out again.
"Alright, ask what you want to ask... but not here, let's go home. This place is not safe."
"And what if you deny it when we get home?"
"I won't deny it. Ask what you want to ask. Anyway, I didn't know about your stubbornness until now!"
"First, take an oath... by the person you love the most!"
Aditya placed his hand on Manal's head.
"I swear by you, Mana. I will say nothing but the truth."
For a moment, Manal was taken aback.
"I said take an oath by the person you love the most. Why did you swear by me?"
"Well, who knows... maybe you are the most precious thing in my life. Not Mom, not the children... whoever I look at, I can swear by you."
---
"Alright, but listen—if you hide anything when we get home, I'll end everything... all deals, everything!" Manal said and angrily got into the car.
Aditya smiled inwardly: "How stubborn she is... she's become like a child today."
No words were exchanged between them the entire way. Mana wouldn't even meet Aditya's gaze. Many stories were swirling in her mind—
"...Does he want the factory?... Is he blackmailing Dad?... Why did Dad suddenly go silent?..."
---
When they reached home, Aditya stopped the car.
"Mana, we're home... Now get out... or will you spend the night in the car?"
Mana quietly got out and went straight to her room, then asked Aditya directly:
"Now tell me... what game is going on?... What do you want from my father?... What tricks are you playing with him?... Don't lie to me! Do whatever you want with me, but stay away from my family!"
---
Aditya now understood that it would not be right to hide things any longer. Manal now looked at him with suspicion, and for her, nothing Aditya said would matter—unless he backed it up with proof.
The time had come for him to reveal the truth.
The truth that was very dangerous.
It was related to the factory, the accident, and a conspiracy that could destroy Manal's family. Aditya now wanted Mana to know all this—but he was also afraid of how she would react.
But now, there was no other way left.
---
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