Chapter 53: 48. The Trouble

The evening was lively, the room filled with music, laughter, and warm conversation.

Aarvi was with Ruhi, when Nick took an opportunity to approach her.

You must be quite a muse for Darshil, inspiring him to succeed like this. Nick said

Aarvi forced a small smile, carefully keeping her tone neutral.

Darshil is very driven on his own. I’m just happy to support him however I can. Aarvi said

A modest answer… but I believe it’s more than that. A man like him needs a woman of substance. And, might I say, beauty and elegance as well. Nick said, his gaze traveling from her face downward in a way that made Aarvi’s skin crawl.

Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Nick. Aarvi said and she shifted her gaze to Ruhi

I must say, Mrs. Aarvi, you have a charm that isn’t common. It must be quite something to have such a partnership with a man like Darshil. Nick said

Aarvi’s patience was beginning to wear thin, but she maintained her poised tone.

Partnerships are built on respect, Mr. Nick. Darshil and I believe in keeping that at the heart of our relationship. Aarvi said

Just then, Daksh appeared, sensing that something felt off.

Aarvi.... I was searching for you. Daksh said and both Nick and Aarvi looked at him.

Poorva was asking if you could help with something in the kitchen. Daksh said

Aarvi seized the opportunity, giving Mr. Nick, a polite nod.

If you’ll excuse me, Mr. Nick, it was nice speaking with you. Aarvi said

Of course, Mrs. Aarvi. We’ll speak again soon. Nick said with a small smile

As Aarvi walked away with Daksh, her heart was pounding.

Thank you, Daksh. He was… making me uncomfortable. Aarvi said

I noticed. Stay close to the family tonight. I’ll keep an eye on him too, and… if Darshil finds out, he won’t handle it as calmly. Daksh said

I just didn’t want to make a scene and disrupt the business. Aarvi said

You handled it with grace, Aarvi. But remember, you don’t have to deal with this alone. Daksh said with a reassuring smile.

Nandini ji, wearing a gracious smile, looked over to her daughter, Poorva, and motioned her to come forward. Beside her stood a well-dressed man named Akshay, who, at a glance, seemed refined and gentle.

Poorva, I'd like you to meet Akshay. I've known his family for years, and he's an admirable young man. I think you two would be a wonderful match. Nandini ji said

Darshil, with a hand on Aarvi's shoulder, gave his approving nod.

Akshay comes from a good family, Poorva and he is a really nice man. Darshil said

Poorva tried to keep her face neutral, but Aarvi noticed the flicker of pain in her eyes. Standing quietly next to Poorva, Shiv's fists clenched, his jaw tightening as he glanced between Poorva and Akshay. Aarvi felt the tension; she could almost feel Shiv's jealousy radiating.

Poorva, why don't you go and get to know Akshay a little better? Nandini ji said

Poorva hesitated but forced a small smile and nodded. As she led Akshay to a quieter corner, she could feel Shiv's gaze following her every step.

As Poorva spoke with Akshay, trying her best to focus, Shiv's patience finally snapped.

Poorva moved slightly away from Akshay to refill her drink, Shiv stepped forward, his fingers gently brushing her elbow.

Seizing the opportunity, he quickly walked over to where they were standing. Without hesitation, he gently yet firmly grabbed Poorva's arm, pulling her aside to a secluded corner, away from curious eyes.

Shiv what are you doing? Someone will see us.... Poorva said

But her words fell away when she looked up into Shiv's intense gaze, filled with a possessiveness she hadn't seen before.

I don't care who's around, Poorva. Seeing you with him.... You're mine, only mine. I may not have the right words to make this clear but, I can't stand to even imagine you with someone else. Shiv said

Before she could respond, Shiv leaned down and kissed her, deeply and passionately, his hands cradling her face as if he were afraid she'd vanish.

Poorva's initial surprise melted, and she found herself wrapped in his arms, returning the kiss with the same intensity. After a long moment, they pulled back, both breathing heavily. Poorva looked up at him, her eyes glistening with confusion and vulnerability.

Shiv... what are we doing? They've already talked about Akshay... everyone thinks it's a good idea. Poorva said

Shiv's hands tightened around her waist, his voice steady yet raw.

And what do you think of Poorva? Do you think Akshay can make you happy? Shiv said

No... but I have responsibilities, Shiv. I can't afford to be selfish. Poorva said looking down, her voice barely above whisper

Shiv reached up, lifting her chin so their eyes met.

Your happiness isn't selfish, Poorva. It's essential. If you're with someone else, what will happen to us? To this... to what we feel? Shiv said

Poorva felt a tear slip down her cheek, and she quickly wiped it away.

But what if everyone finds out? What if this... us... ruins everything? Poorva asked

Shiv's expression softened as he brushed her tear away.

I don't care about anything or anyone else, Poorva. If they don't understand, I'll stand by you through it all. I just can't stand the thought of you with someone else. Not when I love you this much. Shiv said

Poorva's heart pounded, her worries melting away under Shiv's unwavering gaze. She wrapped her arms around him, resting her head against his chest, and he held her close, a gentle smile finally breaking through his anger.

Shiv… do something. I can’t stand this… being with him when I just want to be with you. Poorva said

Then don’t stand it, Poorva. I’ll make things right, I promise. I want you—no one else. I’ll talk to Darshil, to Nandini ji, whatever it takes. Just stay with me. Shiv said as he tightened his grip around her and pulled her closer.

I’m yours, Shiv. I want to be with you as soon as possible. Make it happen. Poorva said

I will, Poorva. I’ll do whatever it takes to make you mine, openly and without any hesitation. Shiv said as he pulled back and kissed on her cheeks.

On the other side, in the elegant glow of the party, Aarvi moved gracefully near the buffet table, ensuring everything was arranged perfectly. She smiled warmly at guests as they passed by, but her calm demeanor was interrupted when she sensed someone approaching her from behind.

Well, don't you look stunning tonight? Nick said with a smirk that immediately set off her instincts.

Aarvi kept her voice polite, trying to keep things cordial.

Thank you, Mr. Nick. Is there anything you need? Aarvi asked

Just some company, perhaps... Someone as beautiful as you shouldn't be alone. Nick said while leaning close

I'm not alone, Mr. Nick. My husband is here somewhere. Aarvi said, hoping her tone would deter him.

But it seemed to do the opposite

Husband or not, a beauty like you deserves attention. Why don't we take a little walk? Nick said

Aarvi, increasingly uncomfortable, managed a polite smile.

Mr. Nick, I have to look for some arrangements. I hope you will enjoy yourself here. Aarvi said and excused herself, she quietly slipped out of the room, hoping to get some fresh air and create distance between them.

She made her way through the hallway and into a quiet garden at the back, the night air a small comfort.

But within moments, she heard footsteps behind her. Turning, she saw Nick approaching, his eyes gleaming with an unsettling look.

What are you doing here? Aarvi asked, trying her best to sound polite

Oh, come on now, sweetheart. I knew you wanted some privacy with me. Thought you were trying to give me a little... invitation. Nick said stepping closer

Aarvi's eyes narrowed, and she took a step back, holding her composure.

Mr. Nick, please don't misunderstand. I just needed some air. I didn't ask you to follow me. Aarvi said

Darling, I know this is what you want. Nick said and stepped closer, as he raised his hand to touch her hair but Aarvi flinched and took a step back.

Mr. Nick, I've been polite, but this... is crossing the line. Step back. Now.

But he didn't stop; instead, he moved closer, his hand reaching out to rest on her shoulder. Aarvi flinched, stepping back again, but he advanced, this time his hand moving down, brushing her bare waist.

A shiver of discomfort shot through her and Aarvi's patience snapped. She raised her hand and slapped him hard across the face, the sound echoing in the stillness.

For a moment, Nick's face twisted with surprise, then with anger. Grabbing her wrist, he pulled her close, his grip tightening painfully around her wrist.

How dare you? Do you know who you're dealing with? Nick hissed in anger

Aarvi's pulse raced as she struggled, his grip leaving red marks against her skin, but she held her ground, her voice steady even as she trembled.

And do you know who you're dealing with? Lay another hand on me, and you'll regret it more than you know. Aarvi said

Summoning all her strength, she pushed him away, managing to break free. Nick stumbled back, a flicker of shock in his eyes as she turned on her heel and walked away, her heart racing but her resolve unbroken. As she made her way back to the party, she felt the sting of his grip on her wrist, her whole body trembling from the encounter.

Aarvi stood by the dimly lit corner of the hallway, her back against the wall, eyes still wide with residual fear. Her fingers trembled as she pressed them against her lips, trying to regain her calm, to mask the unsettled rage and shock from her encounter with Nick. She knew she needed to pull herself together, especially if she ran into Darshil again—she couldn’t bear him seeing her like this.

Just then, she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. Instinctively, a surge of panic coursed through her body, and she spun around, shoving the person back with a sharp yell.

Don’t touch me! Stay away! Aarvi yelled

Darshil stumbled slightly, surprised by the force of her push, barely catching himself. His eyes widened in shock as he steadied himself, a look of confusion and hurt crossing his face.

Hazel? Darshil said

Aarvi gasped, her heart sinking as she realized who it was.

Darshil… oh God, I thought… Aarvi said

Without another word, she rushed to him, reaching out as if to check if he was alright. Her eyes filled with worry and regret.

I… I didn’t mean to push you. I didn’t even know it was you. Are you okay? I am sorry. Aarvi said

Darshil placed a gentle hand over hers, his gaze searching her face.

Hazel, it’s okay. But what happened? Why did you react like that? Darshil asked

She looked down, her lips pressed tightly together, unwilling to meet his gaze. Darshil frowned, sensing something was wrong. He reached out and softly lifted her chin, compelling her to look at him. His jaw tightened in anger, as he saw her condition.

Hazel, did someone… did someone do something to you? Did anyone make you feel uncomfortable? Darshil asked, trying to compose his anger

Her silence was answer enough. Darshil’s expression darkened, and he took a deep breath, steadying himself, unwilling to let his anger show just yet.

Tell me, Hazel. Don’t keep this to yourself. What happened? Darshil aksed, tryimg his best to be calm and gentle

Aarvi’s face crumpled as she finally looked into his eyes, the weight of her emotions pressing down on her. She couldn’t bring herself to speak, so instead, she took a step closer and wrapped her arms tightly around him. Darshil held her, feeling her body tremble against his chest. He gently stroked her back.

I’m right here, Aarvi. No one’s going to hurt you. Not as long as I’m here. Darshil whispered softly to soothe her.

Aarvi clutched his shirt, her fingers digging into the fabric as she took a shaky breath.

Darshil held her tightly, his arms wrapped around her trembling body as he tried to calm her. Her face was pressed against his chest, and he could feel her racing heartbeat against his own.

As Aarvi began to calm down and pulled back, Darshil’s hand moved to hold hers. But as his fingers brushed against her wrist, she winced, instinctively pulling her hand away.

Darshil’s eyes immediately dropped to her wrist, and there, just above the delicate bracelet she always wore, he noticed faint red marks imprinted on her skin. His expression darkened, a storm gathering in his eyes,  his jaw clenching.

Hazel.....Who did this to you? Darshil asked in a dangerous voice

Aarvi hesitated, her lips parting to say something, but she remained silent. She wanted to protect Darshil’s reputation, knowing how important this evening was for him. But Darshil wasn’t going to let it go so easily. His gaze bore into her, firm and unyielding, demanding the truth.

Darshil’s fingers tightened slightly as he studied her expression, realizing there was more to this than she was letting on. The quiet anger building inside him threatened to spill over, but he knew he had to stay calm for her sake.

Hazel....someone hurt you. And I need to know who it was.  Tell me who did this. Darshil said, his voice softening, though his eyes burned with a dangerous intensity.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm the fire in his veins so he wouldn’t scare her further.

It was.... Mr. Nick. Aarvi said looking down, in shaky voice.

Darshil’s face darkened as the name left her lips. He closed his eyes for a brief second, trying to keep his anger under control. When he looked back at her, his expression was calm, yet the intensity of his gaze revealed the storm brewing within him.

Hazel, tell me everything. Darshil said in a dangerous but firm voice

He… followed me to a quiet corner. I thought I’d gotten away, but he came after me. I told him to stop, to leave me alone, but he wouldn’t listen. And then…. Aarvi said and  looked at her wrist, biting her lip as the memory flooded back.

And then? What? Darshil asked, his eyes filled with extreme rage

He grabbed my.... waist… and wouldn’t let go. And then… I slapped him. I just couldn’t stand it. Aarvi said, her lips trembling

Darshil’s hands clenched into fists as he listened, the muscles in his jaw tightening. The barely restrained rage in his eyes shifting to a deadly calm.

You slapped him.... Darshil repeated.

Yes.... I am Sorry, I just couldn't control my anger. I shouldn't have slapped him. Aarvi said in a low voice

You're right..... You should've not slapped him. Darshil said paused for a moment, trying to calm down.

Rather, you should have killed him. Darshil said in a dangerous voice.

Aarvi's eye widened in shock as she looked at him, her mind repeating the memories of whatever Darshil did to all those men who tried to misbehave with her.

Darshil... No. You're not going to do anything this time. Aarvi said with trembling lips.

Darshil’s phone buzzed, and he saw Daksh’s name flashing on the screen. Answering quickly, he heard Daksh’s worried voice.

Darshil, I can’t find Aarvi anywhere in the party hall... and I haven’t seen Mr. Nick for a while either. Look, I think he was trying to get close to he. I even stopped him once. Daksh said

Darshil’s jaw tightened, and he looked at Aarvi, who was by his side now, her face still pale.

Aarvi’s with me, Daksh. But... you know what needs to be done with Nick for now. Darshil said

Understood. I’ll take care of it. Daksh replied, understanding the hint and then hung up.

Darshil, please... let it go. It’s over now. Aarvi said

But Darshil’s expression remained stormy. Without a word, he pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her close.

Right now, he is digging his own grave for daring to lay a hand on you. I will make him rue the day he was born. I'll tear him apart limb from limb. No one touches you and gets away with it. NO ONE! Darshil said

Please, Darshil… I didn’t want this to affect your work or tonight’s event. He’s an important client. It's your hardwork. Aarvi said

No. No one, no matter how important, has the right to disrespect you. Darshil said

Aarvi pulled back and looked at him, with pleading eyes.

Darshil please.... Violence isn't necessary all the time. Aarvi said

Darshil again pulled her into a tight embrace, shielding her from the world and the hurt she’d endured. Aarvi melted into his arms, her own fears and anxieties melting away as she felt his strength envelop her. She could tell he was trying to hold back his rage for her sake, and that meant everything to her.

I’m so sorry, Hazel. I should’ve been there. But I promise, no one will ever hurt you again. Not as long as I’m around. Darshil murmured into her hair, stroking her back gently

Aarvi buried her face in his chest, taking in the comfort of his words.

I know, Darshil. I just didn’t want you to lose everything you’ve worked so hard for. Aarvi said

Darshil leaned back, his hands cupped her face gently as he looked her in the eyes.

I’ll never lose what’s most important. And that’s you. Darshil said and kissed her forehead and then he took her to the bedroom and made her sit on the bed making sure she is comfortable.

Stay here. I need to handle something. Darshil said

Darshil….Aarvi tried to stop him, worry crossing her face, but he pressed a finger gently to her lips.

I’ll be right back, Aarvi. And don’t worry about Nick. I’ll take care of this… my way. Darshil said, his gaze softened, giving her a small reassuring smile before he left out of the room.

*********

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