"57. Dark Revelations"

"Meri Ruhh ka hi aksh hai vo,

Meri zindagi ka laksh hai vo,

Uske bina ye saasein bhi adhoori lagti hai,

Kuch aisa hi mere jeene ka saksh hai vo"

-fictionflare_

Kartavya and Savisha (Avyaisha's) room,

Savisha sat comfortably on the bed, a bowl of strawberries in her hand, seemingly indifferent to what her husband was doing. However, her eyes told a different story. She wasn’t just sitting idly—she was admiring him. Kartavya, shirtless and focused, was on the floor, flexing his muscles as he powered through his pushups. His back muscles rippled with each movement, his strong arms tensing and relaxing rhythmically. Savisha’s gaze remained fixated on him, tracing every curve of his perfectly toned body. Every flex, every shift of his muscles captivated her, making her completely unaware of the strawberry she had absentmindedly lifted halfway to her lips.

Kartavya: "79, 80, Isha yaar mahiye hun toh meri gal suno, ik vaari."

(79, 80… Isha, my love, listen to me at least once.)

Savisha: "Chup chap se punishment puri kijiye Varna main batati hu abhi."

(Just quietly complete your punishment, or else I’ll show you.)

Kartavya: "Damn, woman! You are actually drooling over me, enjoying the view. You know I can effortlessly do 100 push-ups,  isme meri punishment toh nahi, but aapka mast view zarur hai Mahiya."

(This isn’t my punishment, but it’s definitely a treat for your eyes, Mahiya.)

Savisha: "Main batau abhi real punishment??"

(Should I show you what a real punishment looks like?)

Kartavya: "Nahi nahi baba sorry."

(No, no! Sorry, my love.)

Savisha smiled as Kartavya finally completed his punishment of 100 pushups. Breathing heavily, he stood up, his body glistening with sweat. Just as he straightened, Savisha playfully tossed a towel at his face. He caught it effortlessly and wiped off the sweat before walking toward her.

He sat right in front of her, waiting for her to meet his gaze. But she stubbornly looked away, still pretending to be upset with him. However, her eyes betrayed her. Before she could stop herself, they flickered toward his well-defined abs. Realizing what she had done, she quickly averted her gaze again, as if nothing had happened. Kartavya, catching her little slip, chuckled deeply.

Kartavya: "Aap hi ka hu Maahiye, dekh sakti hai aap."

(I belong to you, Mahiya. You can look all you want.)

Savisha: "Main gussa hu"

(I’m angry.)

Kartavya chuckled and gently squeezed Savisha’s cheeks, which had become even chubbier due to her pregnancy.

Kartavya: "Par meri baat toh suno."

(But at least hear me out.)

Savisha: "Doctor ne kaha ki main thoda bahaut spicy and all kha sakti hu, phir aapne jhuth kyu bola??"

(The doctor said I could eat a little bit of spicy food. Then why did you lie?)

Kartavya sighed softly before settling beside her. Without a word, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her into a gentle side hug.

Kartavya: "Is baar bas kuch risk nahi lena chahta hu isha, main phir se nahi kho sakta hu kuch bhi."

(I just don’t want to take any risks this time, Isha. I can’t afford to lose anything again.)

There was a deep sincerity in Kartavya's voice that made Savisha pause and look at him. A soft smile graced her lips as she gently placed her hand on his chest, right above his heart, feeling its steady rhythm.

Savisha: "Aap fikr mat kariye Avya, kuch nahi hoga ab, sab achcha hoga. Hum sabki life me sab thik hoga."

(Don’t worry, Avya. Nothing will happen now. Everything will be fine. Everything in our lives will be okay.)

Kartavya smiled warmly before leaning in and pressing a gentle kiss on Savisha's forehead.

Kartavya: "Ab bas Jaldi se Rudraksh jo chahta hai vo use mil jaye bas phir hum sab vapas London chale jayenge, koi buri memory chahiye hi nahi."

(Now, we just need Rudraksh to get what he wants, and then we’ll all go back to London. I don’t want any bad memories.)

Savisha smiled softly and rested her head against Kartavya’s chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as they stayed in that comforting embrace for a few moments, lost in their own little world. After a while, Savisha playfully pushed him away, a teasing glint in her eyes.

Kartavya: "Hun ki kitta main??"

(Now what i did?)

Savisha: "Go and shower, kitni badbu aa rahi hai, main aur humara bachcha marenge aapko."

(Go and take a shower! You stink so bad that our baby and I are going to pass out.)

Kartavya: "Aur do punishment mujhe, usi ka natija hai"

(This is the result of your punishment!)

Savisha shot him a playful glare, but Kartavya only chuckled in response. Shaking his head at her antics, he turned around and headed towards the bathroom to take a shower, leaving her pouting behind him.

Ruhaaksh Room,

Rudraksh stepped out of his study and walked towards their room, only to find Ruhanika sitting cross-legged on the bed, deeply engrossed in her studies. A small smile formed on his lips as he paused at the doorway, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. He had designed an entire study room for her, equipped with everything she could possibly need, yet she always chose to study in their room.

His eyes softened as he admired her—her hair was tied in a messy bun with a pencil holding it in place, and she absentmindedly twirled a pen between her fingers while staring at her notes. Every now and then, she would scratch her head, her brows furrowing in concentration before she pouted in frustration. Rudraksh bit his lip, trying hard to suppress a chuckle at her adorable yet dramatic expressions. Moments later, she let out an exasperated sigh, throwing the pen onto the book with a defeated huff. In one swift motion, she slammed the laptop shut and crossed her arms, her lips pressing into a thin line.

Rudraksh smirked, shaking his head. He knew his woman too well. Ruhanika wasn’t someone who displayed her anger often, but when she reached her limit, she became a storm no one could handle. And right now, she was dangerously close to that edge. Not wanting to become the victim of her frustration, Rudraksh decided it was best to step in before things escalated. Pushing himself off the wall, he walked toward her with slow, measured steps.

As he stepped inside, Ruhanika’s frown vanished instantly, replaced by a radiant, deep-dimpled smile. Her entire face lit up with joy at the sight of him. Without a second thought, she stood on the bed and jumped down in excitement. Before she could stumble or fall, his strong arms were already there, catching her effortlessly. Holding her securely, he let out a small chuckle, shaking his head at her recklessness. She giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck, while he held her close, feeling the warmth of her happiness spread through him.

Rudraksh: "Araam se Ruhh, aisa bhi kya hua??"

(Calm down, Ruhh. What happened now?)

Ruhanika wrapped her arms around him, resting her chin on his chest as she gazed up at him.

Ruhanika: "Hum pareshan hai bahaut, bahaut zyada"

(I’m very, very troubled.)

Rudraksh smiled, already certain that whatever was troubling her was something simple and that she was just overthinking it, letting unnecessary tension build up. Wanting to ease her worries, he leaned in and gently rubbed his nose against hers, his touch light and playful. As expected, a soft giggle escaped her lips, and the worry in her eyes momentarily melted away.

Rudraksh: "Aur kyu pareshan hai mera betu??"

(And why is my princess so worried?)

Rudraksh asked gently while rubbing her back in a soothing manner.

Ruhanika: "Ek concept hai, aaj hi sikhaya tha college me par hum bhool gaye aur hume samajh nahi aa raha, internet se bhi samajh nahi aa raha hai."

(There’s a concept that was taught in college today, but I forgot it, and I can’t understand it. Even the internet isn’t helping.)

Rudraksh: "Achcha batao kya hai??"

(Alright, tell me what it is.)

Ruhanika grinned excitedly, knowing that he had a way of explaining things in the simplest and most understandable way, making everything easy for her to grasp.

Ruhanika: "Haa aap hume sikha dijiye, aapko toh vaise bhi sab aata hai, aaiye humare sath."

(Yes! You can teach me. You know everything anyway. Come with me.)

Ruhanika took his hand for support as she climbed onto the bed. Settling comfortably in the center, she made space for Rudraksh beside her. Once he was seated, she eagerly passed her book to him, her eyes filled with anticipation.

Ruhanika: "Ye sikhaiye hume "Consumer Behavior & Market Research"."

(Teach me this— "Consumer Behavior & Market Research.")

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, ye toh marketing hai."

(Ruhh, that’s marketing.)

Ruhanika: "Haa toh??"

(So?)

Rudraksh: "Ruhh I studied Finance not marketing."

(Ruhh, I studied finance, not marketing.)

Ruhanika: "Toh itni badi company kaise chalate hai?? Uske liye sab aana chahiye na?"

(Then how do you run such a big company? You should know everything, right?)

Rudraksh chuckled softly, reaching out to gently remove the pencil tucked in her hair. With a fond smile, he carefully fixed her hair, making sure it was neatly in place.

Rudraksh: "Company me marketing team hai Ruhh, ye sab dekhne ke liye."

(There’s a marketing team in the company, Ruhh. That’s their job.)

Ruhanika: "Nahi aap ek baar padhiye na aapko aata hi hoga hume pata hai."

(No! Just read it once. I know you’ll understand.)

Rudraksh chuckled, shaking his head in amusement before taking her book. He flipped it open and began reading, his expression turning focused as he went through the pages.

Rudraksh: "Okay so see Consumer behavior is the study of how people make decisions about what to buy, why they buy it, and how they use products or services. Think of it as understanding the "why" behind your everyday shopping habits. For example, why do you choose one brand of cereal over another? It could be because of taste, price, packaging, or even a recommendation from a friend. By studying these choices, businesses learn what customers really want."

Ruhanika: "Dekha, aapko aa gaya aur hum samajh bhi gaye na, ab aage Market reasearch bataiye."

(See! You got it, and now I understand it too. Now, explain market research.)

Rudraksh: "Market research is the process companies use to gather information about their customers, competitors, and overall market trends. Imagine a company wanting to launch a new product. They might use surveys, focus groups, or analyze online reviews to understand what potential buyers are looking for and what problems they need solved. This research helps companies make smarter decisions about product development, pricing, and marketing strategies."

Ruhanika: "And what strategies are used for it? How do they conduct these market surveys? How do they connect with people and collect responses?"

Rudraksh: "Umm Wait, marketing meri weak hai thodi, mere pass na ek book hai main vo lekar aata hu toh dono sath me padhte hai okay??"

(Umm, wait… marketing is a bit weak for me. I have a book on it. Let me bring it, and we’ll study together, okay?)

Ruhanika: "Nahi aap bataiye, kaha hai bata dijiye, hum laate hai, aap bahaut thak gaye hai na, araam kijiye."

(No, you just tell me where it is. I’ll get it. You’re already too tired—get some rest.)

Rudraksh smiled softly, his heart warming at how she still cared for him so deeply.

Rudraksh: "Mere wardrobe me hai, 3rd drawer from left side."

(It’s in my wardrobe, third drawer from the left side.)

Ruhanika: "Achcha vahi na jaha aap apne ang vastra rakhte hai uske baju wala drawer na??"

(Oh, the one next to where you keep your undergarments, right?)

Rudraksh: "Shut up Ruhhhhhh."

Ruhanika giggled mischievously as she darted into the closet, her laughter echoing in the room. Rudraksh chuckled, shaking his head in amusement at her antics. Once inside, Ruhanika eagerly began searching for the book she wanted. However, being perpetually confused about right and left directions, she mistakenly opened the right drawer instead of the left. Expecting to find a book, her eyes instead landed on something unexpected—some neatly stacked papers and, nestled among them, a gun.

Her breath hitched, and her wide eyes reflected the sudden wave of fear and surprise that washed over her. With trembling fingers, she hesitantly reached out to touch the cold metal but immediately recoiled, as if burned by the realization of what she had just discovered. The memory of Rudraksh’s words flashed in her mind—how he had once placed the gun in her hand and told her that if he ever raised his voice against her, she had the right to use it against him.

A shiver ran down her spine. She quickly shut the drawer, her hands slightly unsteady. Taking a deep breath to compose herself, she stepped out of the closet, her movements slower than before. Rudraksh, who had been casually observing her, immediately noticed the change in her demeanor. His gaze softened with curiosity and concern as he watched her emerge, her face betraying the emotions swirling within her.

Rudraksh: "Kaha reh gayi thi betu, aao main thode concepts samajh gaya hu."

(What’s taking you so long, princess? Come, I’ve understood some of the concepts.)

Ruhanika didn’t say a word, and Rudraksh immediately turned to look at her. It didn’t take him long to realize that she was tense. His mind quickly connected the dots—he knew how easily she got confused between right and left, and then it hit him. His eyes widened as he remembered the way she had reacted upon seeing his gun before.

Without wasting another second, he strode towards her and pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in a protective embrace. Ruhanika didn’t hesitate; she clung to him even more tightly, burying herself in his warmth as if seeking solace. Rudraksh could feel her heart racing against his chest, and he instinctively tightened his hold, silently reassuring her that she was safe with him.

Rudraksh: "Right drawer khol liya??"

(Did you open the right drawer?)

With her head resting against his chest, Ruhanika still managed to nod.

Rudraksh: "Darr lag raha hai??"

(Are you scared?)

Ruhanika: "Chinta ho Rahi hai."

(I’m worried.)

Rudraksh: "Aao mere sath."

(Come here with me.)

Still holding her in a warm embrace, Rudraksh gently guided her to the bed. They both settled in comfortably, with Ruhanika securely wrapped in his arms.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, kya tumhe mujhse puchna hai kuch??"

(Ruhh, do you want to ask me something?)

Ruhanika: "Nahi, hum jante hai aap kuch karte hai ya agar kuch apne pass rakhe hai toh uski zarurat hogi hi, par aisi cheezon se darr lagta hai hume aur phir aapki chinta hoti hai, kyuki vo cheez toh buri hai na, aapko lag gayi toh hum kya karenge??"

(No. I know that whatever you do or keep with you must have a reason. But such things scare me… and I worry about you. Because that thing is dangerous, right? What if you get hurt? What will I do then?)

Rudraksh smiled gently and ran his fingers through her hair, caressing her head with soft, comforting strokes.

Rudraksh: "Janna hai vo gun kyu hai mere pass??"

(Do you want to know why I have a gun?)

Ruhanika: "Agar aap batana chahe tab hi, Varna hume bharosa hai aap pe, koi zabardasti nahi hai."

(Only if you want to tell me. Otherwise, I trust you completely. No pressure.)

Rudraksh smiled, touched by the unwavering trust she always had in him. Gently, he helped her sit up properly and held her hands, his grip firm yet reassuring.

Rudraksh: "betu, main na jo bolunga use tum dhyaan se sunna and don't panic okay??"

(Princess, listen carefully to what I’m about to say. And don’t panic, okay?)

Ruhanika nodded her head, her eyes filled with expectation. Rudraksh closed his eyes for a moment and let out a deep sigh. When he opened them again, he looked directly into hers, his gaze steady and sincere—because he didn’t want to lie to her.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, firstly vo gun mere pass hai meri aur hum sabki raksha ke liye. Tum janti ho na ki hum sab kahi bhi jate hai toh bodygards sath hote hai... that's because bahaut se dushman hai mere."

(Ruhh, first of all, I have that gun for my safety and for all of us. You know that whenever we go somewhere, we have bodyguards, right? That’s because I have many enemies.)

Ruhanika: "Par aap toh kitne achche hai toh phir aapke dushman kaise ho sakte hai??"

(But you’re such a good person. How can you have enemies?)

Rudraksh: "Jaana business me aisa hota hai, agar koi bahaut achcha hai kisi cheez me toh log use girane ki koshish karte hai... Business is a race Ruhh, where everyone wants to win, by hook or by crook."

(Sweetheart, in business, this happens. If someone is too good at something, people try to bring them down. Business is a race, Ruhh—where everyone wants to win, by hook or by crook.)

Ruhanika: "Par ye toh kitni buri baat hai na, jeetna hai toh mehnat karni chahiye na, kisi ko nuksaan kyu pohchana"

(But that’s such a bad thing. If someone wants to win, they should work hard. Why harm others?)

Rudraksh: "Haan Ruhh par ye tum samajhti ho, har koi nahi, ab hum sabko toh nahi samjha sakte na, na jane kon kaisa ho isiliye safety ke liye gun rakhni padti hai samjhia??"

(Yes, Ruhh, you understand this, but not everyone does. We can’t explain it to everyone, and we don’t know who might have bad intentions. That’s why we need protection. Do you understand?)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Aur haa, agle mahine se after gym, Kartavya bhai tumhe bhi gun chalana sikhayenge."

(And yes, starting next month, after the gym, Kartavya bhai will teach you how to use a gun.)

Ruhanika’s eyes widened in shock, and instinctively, she tried to pull her hand away. But before she could, Rudraksh tightened his grip, holding it firmly yet gently, not letting her distance herself from him.

Ruhanika: "Nahi hume nahi.. hum nahi chala payenge kisi par bhi goli."

(No! I don’t want to. I can’t ever shoot someone.)

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh, self defence ka hi part hai ye kisi par chalana nahi hai, par zarurat ke liye sikhna zaruri hai"

(Ruhhh, it’s just a part of self-defense. You don’t have to shoot anyone, but learning it is important for safety.)

Ruhanika: "Hume bhi??"

(Even me?)

Rudraksh: "Haa jaan tumhe bhi, ab agar mujhpe kabhi koi musibat aayi toh tum nahi bachaogi??"

(Yes, my love, you too. If I ever get into trouble, won’t you save me?)

Ruhanika: "Hey Shiv ji, kaise baatein kar rahe hai aap, aap par kabhi koi aanch bhi na aaye, hum roz prarthana karte hai ye. Aapko bhala kyu kuch hoga."

(Oh, Lord Shiva! What kind of things are you saying? Nothing should ever happen to you! I pray every day that you stay safe. Why would anything happen to you?)

Rudraksh: "pehle meri baat ka jawab do Sohneyo."

(First, answer my question, Sohneyo.)

Ruhanika didn’t like what he asked, her expression reflecting her reluctance. Yet, despite her hesitation, she still nodded her head, choosing to trust him.

Ruhanika: "Jii bachayenge hum aapko."

(Yes… I will save you.)

Rudraksh smiled softly, his fingers gently caressing her cheeks. He could tell from her expression that she wasn’t liking what he was saying, but he knew it was necessary. It was high time she understood certain things—things he had been shielding her from for too long. Yet, deep down, he also knew she had grown, proving time and again that she was mature enough to understand and handle the realities of life. He wasn’t just saying this to burden her, but because he trusted her. And no matter how much he wanted to protect her from everything, he also believed in her strength.

Rudraksh: "Okay now one more thing, ye meri life ki sabse important baat hai jo main tumhe bata raha hu Ruhh, kyuki ab tum aisi cheeze samajh sako itni samajhdaar ho."

(Okay. Now, one more thing. This is the most important part of my life that I’m going to tell you, Ruhh. Because now, you’re mature enough to understand such things.)

Ruhanika: "Matlab hum pehle samajhdar nahi the."

(Are you saying I wasn’t mature before?)

Rudraksh chuckled.

Rudraksh: "Vo baat nahi hai betu, par kuch cheeze zyada complicated hoti hai jaise ki ye."

(That’s not what I mean, princess. But some things are very complicated—like this.)

Ruhanika: "Aap bataiye hum samajh jayenge."

(Just tell me. I’ll understand.)

Rudraksh: "I know."

Rudraksh tightened his grip on her hand, his own heartbeat racing just as fast as hers. A storm of emotions swirled within him—anxiousness, fear, and the weight of the truth he was about to reveal. He had hidden it for so long, fearing how she would react, fearing that he might lose the way she looked at him.

But he couldn’t keep it from her anymore. She deserved to know, and no matter how she reacted, he had to face it. Taking a deep breath, he prepared himself for the moment of truth, hoping that their bond was strong enough to withstand whatever came next.

Rudraksh: "Jaana tumhe Mafia pata hai??"

(Darling, do you know what the Mafia is?)

Ruhanika: "Maaf Kiya?? Ji jante hai kisi ko maaf kar dena... Kyu aapne koi galti ki hai.. par aap toh kabhi koi galti karte ho nahi."

(Maaf kiya (Forgiven)? Yes, it means to forgive someone… Why? Did you make a mistake? But you never make mistakes!)

Rudraksh lowered his head and smiled softly, a mix of emotions playing on his face.

Rudraksh: "Maaf Kiya nahi Ruhh, Mafia."

(It's not forgive you, Ruhh. Mafia.)

Ruhanika: "Ye kya hota hai?? Koi punjabi shabd hai?? Ye toh Rishi Bhai ne nahi sikhaya, hum puch ke aaye??"

(What does that mean?? Is it a Punjabi word?? Rishi Bhai never taught me this. Should I go and ask him??)

Ruhanika was about to get up, but before she could move away, Rudraksh pulled her back effortlessly. Without saying a word, he shifted his position, leaning back comfortably against the headboard, letting his neck rest against the cushion. Before she could protest, he tugged her onto his lap, wrapping his arms securely around her.

Rudraksh: "Main batata hu kya hai"

(I’ll explain what it means.)

Ruhanika: "Jiii"

(Okay.)

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, see jaise police hoti hai na logo ki Raksha ke liye?? Par na unki bhi boundaries hoti hai na vo law se bandhe hote hai right??"

(Ruhh, you know how the police exist to protect people, right? But even they have boundaries; they are bound by the law, correct?)

Ruhanika: "Haa, humne suna hai isiliye kabhi kabhi kuch logo ke sath Anyay bhi ho jata hai kyu saboot nahi rehta hai aisa kuch."

(Yes, I’ve heard that. That’s why sometimes injustice happens to some people because there’s no evidence or something like that.)

Rudraksh: "Haan, toh ye hai humara normal system jisse ye country run hoti hai with the help of cops, government and other influencial people."

(Yes. So, this is our normal system through which the country runs, with the help of cops, the government, and other influential people.)

Ruhanika: "Haa ye jante hai hum."

(Yes, I understand that.)

Rudraksh: "Good, phir na Ruhh ye hai ki Government alone can't run the entire country, Bade bade businessman hote hai na unka bhi contribution rehta hai usme."

(Good. Now, the thing is, the government alone can’t run the entire country. There are big businessmen whose contributions also matter.)

Ruhanika: "Matlab aapke jaise?? Aapka bhi yogdaan rehta hai???"

(You mean like you?? Do you also contribute??)

Rudraksh: "Haa, aur mere jaise aur bhi businessman's. But there's another completely different world, which is more influencial and powerful."

(Yes, and other businessmen like me. But there’s another completely different world that is even more influential and powerful.)

Ruhanika: "Dusri Duniya?? Vo kaise ho sakti hai?? Aap kya keh rahe hai hum samjhe nahi."

(Another world?? How is that possible?? I don’t understand what you’re saying.)

Rudraksh smiled softly, his fingers gently tucking her hair behind her ear. His touch was warm, comforting, yet his eyes held a storm of emotions. Meanwhile, she looked at him with utter confusion, searching his face for answers. She could sense that something was different, something was troubling him. Her heart pounded, unsure of what was coming next.

Rudraksh: "A different world doesn’t literally mean another world, betu."

Ruhanika: "Par abhi toh kaha aapne dusri duniya."

(But you just said "another world.")

Rudraksh: "Mera matlab hai ki aise kuch kaam jiske bare me duniya ko pata nahi hota hai, government ko bhi nahi, jo sabse chupa ke liye jaye."

(What I mean is, there are some things that happen in secret, things that neither the world nor the government knows about, things that are kept hidden from everyone.)

Ruhanika: "Phir vo toh galat kaam hua na, agar chupana pade sabse toh."

(Then isn’t that wrong?? If something has to be hidden from everyone, doesn’t that mean it’s wrong??)

Rudraksh: "Haa tum sahi keh rahi ho, par aisa zaruri hai humesha."

(Yes, you’re right, but is that always necessary?)

Ruhanika: "Matlab sahi kaam bhi sabse chupa sakte hai??"

(You mean even the right things can be kept hidden??)

Rudraksh: "Ummm haa bas tarika galat ho sakta hai."

(Umm… yes, but the method might be wrong.)

Ruhanika: "Hum nahi samajh ja rahe hai, isse asaan toh ye Market reasearch aur consumer behaviour tha."

(I’m not able to understand. Even market research and consumer behavior were easier than this.)

Rudraksh chuckled at her confusion, finding her reactions endearing. Sensing her unease, he gently started caressing her waist, knowing well that it always helped relax her nerves.

Rudraksh: "Achcha dekho Kal tum Rishi ke paas gayi kyuki tum janti thi vo pareshan hoga, tumhe uski chinta thi par kya tumne bataya use ki tumhe fikr hai uski??"

(Okay, look. Yesterday, you went to Rishi because you knew he was upset. You were worried about him, but did you tell him that you were concerned about him??)

Ruhanika shook her head softly, her fingers absentmindedly playing with the button of Rudraksh's shirt, lost in thought as she processed everything.

Ruhanika: "Nahi hum unhe batate toh phir Rishi Bhai aur pareshan ho jate."

(No, if I had told him, Rishi Bhai would have gotten even more worried.)

Rudraksh: "Aaj tumne sabke liye nashta banaya, par kal tum Aman se nahi mil payi thi aur pata tha ki vo bhi pareshan hoga dukhi hoga, isiliye ye sab kiya, par kya tumne ye baat Aman ko batayi??"

(Today, you made breakfast for everyone. But yesterday, you couldn’t meet Aman, and you knew he was upset and sad. That’s why you did all this, to make him happy. But did you tell Aman about this??)

Ruhanika shook her head again.

Ruhanika: "Nahi, hum jante hai Aman bhaiya apne dil ki baatein zyada kisi ko batate nahi hai, isiliye humne bas chota sa prayas kiya unhe khush karne ka."

(No, because I know Aman Bhaiya doesn’t share his feelings much with others. That’s why I just made a small effort to make him happy.)

Rudraksh: "Haa toh agar tumne Rishi aur Aman ko nahi bataya toh kya tum galat ho jati ho isme??"

(Exactly. So, if you didn’t tell Rishi or Aman, does that mean you were wrong??)

Ruhanika: "Nahi, humne toh thik kiya na hum unhe bata kar unhe pareshan kyu karte???"

(No, we did the right thing. Why would we tell them and make them even more worried??)

Rudraksh leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her cheek. In response, Ruhanika smiled and did the same, her sweet gesture making him chuckle warmly.

Rudraksh: "Bas usi tarah main bhi kuch kaam karta hu jo ki sabko batana zaruri nahi hai, par karna padta hai."

(Exactly. In the same way, I also do certain things that I don’t need to tell everyone about, but they have to be done.)

Ruhanika: "Kya karte hai aap??"

(What do you do??)

Rudraksh: "Duniye me bahaut se bure log hai betu, jo galat kaam karte hai, especially ladkiyo ke sath."

(There are many bad people in this world, my dear, who do wrong things, especially to girls.)

Ruhanika's eyes widened in shock, and a flicker of fear returned to them. Seeing her reaction, Rudraksh immediately regretted telling her, but he knew he had no choice—she had to know the truth.

Ruhanika: "Kya vo ladkiyo ko galat tarah se chute hai?? Jai...se ma..ma, s..achet bhaiya aur.. vo aa..dmi.... Ne h.."

(Do they touch girls inappropriately? Like… like how that man… Sachet bhaiya… and that other man… tried to…)

She couldn't complete her sentence, her voice faltering, and Rudraksh couldn’t even catch what she was trying to say. Without a second thought, he immediately pulled her into a protective hug, wrapping his arms around her as he gently rubbed her back, trying to soothe her.

Rudraksh: "Hmm vaisa hi kuch jaan, vo log ladkiyo ko khilona samajhte hai, unhe kisi samaan ki tarah bechte hai jinhe hum human traficking kehte hai aur.. unke sath..."

(Hmm… something like that, sweetheart. They treat girls like objects, sell them like commodities, we call it as Human Traficking and…)

Rudraksh shut his eyes, his throat tightening as he found himself unable to speak any further. Sensing his turmoil, Ruhanika gently pulled back from the hug and looked at him, her eyes filled with concern and curiosity.

Ruhanika: "unke sath kya??"

(And what?)

Rudraksh: "Unke sath galat karte hai, toh me and my Men's we save that girls from those devils."

(They do terrible things to them. That’s why my men and I save those girls from these devils.)

Ruhanika's face lit up with a wide, radiant smile.

Ruhanika: "Phir aap toh kitna achcha kaam karte hai. Aap toh kitne achche hai, hum jante hi the aap jo karenge sahi ho karenge"

(Then you are doing such a noble thing. I always knew that whatever you do, you do it for the right reasons.)

Rudraksh smiled warmly and gently cupped her face, his thumbs softly caressing her cheeks as he gazed at her with affection.

Rudraksh: "Meri puri baat suno betu."

(Listen to me carefully, my dear.)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Vo log ye galat kaam kisi ki Nazar me aaye bina karte hai, aur hum bhi un logo ko ye karne rokte hai par ye baatein bahar aane nahi deta"

(These people commit such heinous acts in secret, without coming under anyone’s radar. And we… we stop them from doing these things, but we don’t let this information come out either.)

Ruhanika: "Hum??"

(We?)

Rudraksh: "Me, Rishwik, Aman, Ashvik aur Kartavya bhai."

Ruhanika: "Aap sab achcha kaam karte hai."

(You all are doing a good thing.)

Rudraksh: "hum hi isme nahi shamil hai jaana, humare aur bhi log hai toh hum sabko mila ke ek group banta hai.. aur aise hi aur bhi bahaut se groups hai... Jo ki sabke chup ke aise legal or illegal kaam karte hai... And inhe hi hum Mafia kehte hai."

(We’re not the only ones involved, sweetheart. There are many others like us, and together we form a group. There are also many such groups that secretly carry out both legal and illegal activities… These groups are what we call the Mafia.)

Ruhanika looked at him again, her brows furrowing in confusion, trying to understand what he truly meant.

Ruhanika: "Par agar aap achcha kaam karte hai ladkiyo ko bachate hai, toh ye kaam police bhi karti hai toh phir dono me antar kya hua??"

(But if you are doing something good, saving girls, then isn’t that what the police do too? What’s the difference between you and them?)

Rudraksh: "The police follow the law, Ruhh. But in the Mafia, we don’t have to follow the law. We have our own set of rules and regulations, and whoever goes against those rules… has to face the consequences."

Ruhanika: "saza milegi??"

(Consequences?)

Rudraksh nodded.

Ruhanika: "Kaise saza?? Aur aap jinse un ladkiyo ko bachate hai unhe bhi saza dete honge na?? Kya saza dete hai?? Unhe maarte hai kya?? Jaise humne humare seniors ko mara tha??"

(What kind of consequences? And those people you save the girls from… do you punish them too? What punishment do you give them? Do you… kill them? Like we dealt with our seniors?)

Rudraksh: "Sirf ladkiyo ko nahi bachate Ruhh, there are people who export drugs to other countries and sell it to the youngster and ruin their lives."

(We don’t just save girls, Ruhh. There are also people who export drugs to other countries, sell them to young people, and destroy their lives.)

Ruhanika listened to him with full concentration, her eyes fixed on his face, absorbing every word he spoke with deep focus.

Rudraksh: "Hum unhe bhi aisa karne se rokte hai, aur unhe saza hum humare dungeon me dete hai."

(We stop them too, and we punish them in our dungeon.)

Ruhanika: "Dungeon??"

Rudraksh: "Ek tarah ka jail hai, jaha saza dete hai hum, Mumbai ke thoda bahar junglee me hai."

(It’s a kind of prison where we deliver punishment. It’s located in a remote jungle outside Mumbai.)

Ruhanika: "Aur kya sazaa dete hai??"

(And what kind of punishment do you give?)

Rudraksh: "Yaha sirf ek saza hai Ruhh aur vo hai maut."

(There is only one punishment, Ruhh… and that is death.)

Ruhanika's eyes widened in fear as she processed his words, her gaze immediately shifting to him for clarification. Noticing her distress, Rudraksh gently started rubbing her back again, trying to calm her down with his reassuring touch.

Rudraksh: "Haa Ruhh, main tumse jhooth nahi kahunga, aise logo ko jeene ka haq nahi hai, aur main unhe vhi pohcha deta hai jaha unki sahi jagah hai.... Aur us aadmi ke sath bhi maine yahi Kiya hai jisne tumhe chune ki koshish ki thi"

(Yes, Ruhh, I won’t lie to you. People like them don’t deserve to live, and I send them exactly where they belong. And that man… the one who tried to touch you… I did the same with him.)

Rudraksh shut his eyes as he spoke, fully aware that his words might scare her. He had prepared himself for her shock, for her fear, maybe even for her to push him away. But no matter what, he didn’t want to lie to her. She deserved the truth, and he wouldn’t hold it back any longer.

However, what she did next left him completely stunned. Instead of pulling away or reacting with fear, Ruhanika wrapped her arms around him tightly, hugging him as if she was trying to shield him from his own worries.

His eyes fluttered open in surprise. For a moment, he couldn’t believe it. He had expected hesitation, but instead, she held him with a warmth that spoke of trust, of acceptance. His heart swelled with an emotion he couldn’t quite put into words, and without thinking twice, he hugged her back just as tightly, burying his face in her shoulder.

Ruhanika: "Bilkul thik kiya hai aapne, nazrein mat churaiye, haa hum thoda sa Darr toh rahe hai, par aap par bharosa hai hume."

(You did the right thing. Don’t look away… Yes, I am a little scared, but I trust you.)

Rudraksh smiled as a sense of relief washed over him. His heartbeat, which had been racing moments ago, gradually returned to its normal rhythm. In that moment, he felt his solace—his peace—resting in front of him.

Rudraksh: "Yehi hai Mafia ki Duniya betu, asal duniye ke niche dabi ek kali ghaneri duniya, aur main hu iska badshah, Mafia king The leo."

(This is the world of the Mafia, my dear… a dark, shadowy world hidden beneath the real one. And I am its king—Mafia King, The Leo.)

Ruhanika pulled back slightly, her brows knitting together as she looked at him in confusion.

Ruhanika: "Aap raja hai?? Aapke sar ka taaj kaha hai??"

(You're a king? Then where is your crown?)

Rudraksh chuckled softly at her innocent question, his eyes filled with warmth as he admired her curiosity.

Rudraksh: "Mere sar ka taaj toh tum ho meri jaan."

(You are my crown, my love.)

Ruhanika lowered her eyes shyly, a soft smile playing on her lips. Seeing her adorable reaction, Rudraksh couldn't resist and gently placed a kiss on her cheek, making her blush even more.

Rudraksh: "Main vo wala Raja nahi hua betu, main vo hu jisse sab darte hai, pure Asia me humare Mafia group ki reach hai par mujhe dekha sirf kuch logo ne hai."

(But I am not that kind of king, sweetheart. I am the kind of king that everyone fears. Our Mafia group has reach all over Asia, yet only a few have ever seen me.)

Ruhanika had grasped a lot of information by now and was quietly piecing everything together in her mind, trying to connect the dots and make complete sense of the situation.

Ruhanika: "Hum kuch puchein??"

(Can I ask you something?)

Rudraksh: "Pucho Jaan."

(Of course, my dear.)

Ruhanika: "Aapne kaha is duniya Ke bare me log nahi jante, phir aap kaise gaye?? Aap raja kaise bane??"

(You said that people don’t know about this world… then how did you get into it? How did you become the king?)

Rudraksh: "Banna pada Ruhh Banna pada."

( I had to become one, Ruhh… I had no choice.)

Ruhanika: "Kyu??"

(Why?)

Rudraksh: "Maine bataya tha na humare ghar jo terrorist attack hua tha vo planned tha??"

(I told you, didn’t I? The terrorist attack on our family… it was planned.)

Ruhanika nodded.

Rudraksh: "Vo kyu hua, kisne kiya yahi pata karne ke liye, us insaan ko saza dete ke liye hi mujhe is dehshat ki duniya me kadam rakhna padta."

(To find out why it happened, who was behind it, and to punish that person… I had to step into this terrifying world.)

Ruhanika: "Aapko is Mafia wali buri duniya ke bare me kaise pata chal??"

(How did you learn about this Mafia world?)

Rudraksh: "Kartavya bhai"

Ruhanika: "Bhai sa?? Vo kaise jante hai??"

(Bhai? How did he know about it?)

Rudraksh: "Kyuki mujhse pehle bhai hi Mafia king the "The shadow lord".

(Because before me, he was the Mafia King—The Shadow Lord.)

Ruhanika: "Par vo kyu the?? Phir aap kaise ban gaye Mafia king?"

(But why was he the king? And then how did you become the Mafia King?)

Rudraksh: "Khurana Family pehle hi Mafia world me thi, Dadu ke papa ke time se, Britishers ke time se hi reason mujhe nahi pata, Dadu the Mafia king phir Kanishq Uncle, Kartavya bhai ke papa vo bane, phir unki Dushamani ke chalte unki aur Kirti Aunty, bhai ki mumma ki death ho gayi, unka badla lene ke liye Kartavya bhai ne Mafia king position take over ki and vo jeete bhi, unhone badla liya.... Par phir unke Dushman aur badh gaye jiske kaaran un logo ne bhai aur bhabhi par hamla bhi kiya aur usi hamle me bhabhi ne apna pehla bachcha kho diya unka miscarriage ho gaya."

(The Khurana Family has been part of the Mafia world since my great-grandfather’s time, even during British rule. I don’t know the exact reason, but my grandfather was the Mafia King, then my uncle Kanishq took over—Kartavya bhai’s father.  But due to his enmity with others, both he and Kirti Aunty, bhai’s mother, were killed. To avenge them, Kartavya bhai took over the Mafia… and he won. He avenged them. But his enemies grew stronger. They even attacked him and bhabhi, and in that attack… bhabhi lost her first child. She had a miscarriage.)

Ruhanika's eyes welled up with tears as she listened to the painful past of the Khuranas. Each word, each revelation, felt like a dagger to her heart. She had never imagined the kind of suffering Rudraksh and his family had endured.

She blinked, trying to hold back her emotions, but when she looked up at him, she saw his pain reflected in his moist eyes. His usual confident and teasing demeanor was gone, replaced by raw vulnerability. It hurt her to see him like this.

Without even realizing it, her hands moved on their own, gently rubbing his chest, trying to soothe the turmoil raging inside him. She didn’t know if her touch could erase his pain, but at that moment, it was the only way she knew how to comfort him. Rudraksh felt her warmth, her silent reassurance, and let out a shaky breath, pulling her closer as if drawing strength from her presence.

Rudraksh: "Phir Savisha bhabhi ne Bhai se Mafia world chodne ko kaha, bhai maan bhi gaye par aise achanak sab chodne me bahaut kuch bura hone ke chances the... Par unke paas aur koi option nahi tha... Phir maine unse pucha aur ye position take over ki. Vo nahi chahte the main is daldal me kadam rakhu par mera badla bhi zaruri tha isiliye maine ye kiya aur shayad ab apne maqsad tak bhi zarur pohch jau jald hi."

(After that, Savisha bhabhi asked bhai to leave the Mafia world. He agreed, but leaving everything suddenly was dangerous. There were risks… but he had no other choice. That’s when I stepped in. I asked him if I could take over his position. He didn’t want me to step into this dark world, but I needed my revenge. That’s why I did it. And maybe… soon I will achieve my goal.)

Ruhanika suddenly hugged him tightly, her tears silently rolling down her cheeks. Rudraksh held her close, wrapping his arms around her protectively as he gently rubbed her back, trying to comfort her.

Rudraksh: "Kya hua Darr lag raha hai mujhse??"

(What happened? Are you afraid of me?)

Ruhanika shook her head, her grip on Rudraksh tightening as if refusing to let go.

Ruhanika: "Aapse nahi ,aap ke liye dard lag raha hai, chinta ho Rahi hai.... Ye sab kitna bhayanak hai, ye maar peet khoon kharaba ..... Hume nahi pasand hai hum aapko nahi kho sakte aap jante hai na aap kya hai humare liye."

(Not of you… I’m afraid for you. I’m worried… This world is terrifying—the violence, the bloodshed… I don’t like it. I can’t lose you… You know what you mean to me, don’t you?)

Rudraksh: "janta hu Ruhh, isiliye main vada karta hu na khudko kuch hone dunga na tumhe. Tumhare bhagwan ne bahaut kuch cheena hai mujhse... Ab main apni zindagi tumhare sath vaise bitaunga jaise tum chahti ho, main chahta hu.. ek khushhaal zindagi."

(I know, Ruhh. That’s why I promise… I won’t let anything happen to myself or to you. Your God has already taken too much from me… Now, I want to spend my life with you, the way you want, the way I want… a happy life.)

Ruhanika still didn’t let go, clinging to him tightly as she buried her face in his neck. Rudraksh sighed, wrapping his arms around her securely, and closed his eyes, feeling the depth of her emotions in the silence between them.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh, kya tum bhi chahti ho main Mafia chod du??"

(Ruhh, do you want me to leave the Mafia too?)

Ruhanika slowly pulled back, her eyes still brimming with tears. She blinked a few times, trying to hold them back, but the emotions were too overwhelming.

Ruhanika: "Hum chahte hai ki aapp.. ek minute aap aapki mumma aur papa ko kya keh ke bulate the??"

(I want you to… Wait a minute… What did you call your mom and dad?)

Rudraksh: "Main toh mumma papa hi kehta tha par ye Rishi hi pagal mumma ko mumma, janamdata, papa ki biwi, dadu ki bahu aur na jaane kya kya kehta tha pagal. Papa se thoda darta tha isiliye papa ko bas papa."

(I used to call them Mumma and Papa, but Rishi was crazy. He called Mumma everything—Mumma, Janamdata (birth giver), Papa ki Biwi (Papa’s wife), Dadu ki Bahu (Grandfather’s daughter-in-law)—and who knows what else! He was crazy. I was a little scared of Papa, so I only called him Papa.)

Rudraksh chuckled fondly as memories of Rishwik’s childhood flooded his mind. Ruhanika watched him with a soft smile, admiring the warmth in his eyes. She gently cupped his face, her touch filled with love and reassurance, and placed a tender kiss on his forehead. Rudraksh closed his eyes for a moment, savoring the affection, feeling an unspoken bond strengthen between them.

Ruhanika: "Hum chahte hai ki aap mumma papa aur humare pure parivar ki maut ka badla le, saza de us insaan ko jisne itna bura kiya aapke sath."

(I want you to avenge Mumma and Papa and our entire family. I want you to punish the person who did such a terrible thing to you.)

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh"

Rudraksh was taken aback, his eyes widening in surprise. He had expected Ruhanika to stop him, to hesitate, or even to be scared. But instead, she remained calm, her gaze steady and filled with understanding. It was a reaction he hadn't anticipated, leaving him momentarily speechless.

Ruhanika: "Ji aap sahi samjhe hai hum Darr rahe hai, ghabra rahe hai... Par hum humari is bechaini ko aapki haar ka kaaran kabhi nahi banne denge. Aap jo chahte hai vo karenge aur jeetenge bhi. Hum hai aapke sath aapke har kadam par."

(Yes, you understood correctly. I am scared, I am anxious… but I will never let my restlessness become the reason for your defeat. You will do what you desire, and you will win. I am with you at every step.)

Rudraksh felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted from his heart, allowing him to breathe freely for the first time in a long while.

Rudraksh: "Ruhh tum gussa nahi ho na ki mere pass gun hai, maine kuch logo ko maara hai Mafia king hu aur..."

(Ruhh, you’re not angry, right? That I have a gun, that I’ve killed people, that I am a Mafia king…)

Ruhanika gently placed her finger on Rudraksh's lips, stopping him from saying another word.

Ruhanika: "Shhhhh, hum keh rahe hai na hume hai aap par bharosa toh hai hume bharosa. Hum gussa nahi hai... Hum bas chahte hai aap jo karenge bas surakshit rahe... Har shaam kaam ke baad ghar aaye, humare pass baithe bas hume aur zindagi se kuch nahi chahiye. Par ha hum prarthana karenge aap apne maqsad me zarur kamyabi hasil kare."

(Shhh… I told you, didn’t I? I trust you, and I do. I am not angry… I just want you to stay safe, that’s all. No matter what you do, just come home every evening, sit beside me… that’s all I want from life. But yes, I will pray that you achieve success in your mission.)

Rudraksh smiled at his mature wife, admiration shining in his eyes. He had been prepared for fear, hesitation, or even anger, but she had given him none of that. Instead, she had embraced his truth with unwavering trust, her silent acceptance speaking louder than any words.

Though surprised by how calmly she had handled everything, he wasn’t shocked. Deep down, he had always known that Ruhanika had grown into a woman who could understand not just his actions but also the weight behind them. That was the very reason he had chosen to open up to her, to share the reality of his mafia life without hesitation.

Rudraksh: "Wada karta hu Ruhh jaisa tum chahti ho bilkul vaisa hi hoga."

(I promise you, Ruhh, everything will be just as you wish.)

Ruhanika smiled, but deep down, she knew that Rudraksh had just opened up to her completely, revisiting painful memories he rarely spoke about. The thought of him reliving those moments made her heart ache.

Without saying a word, she cupped his face gently, her touch warm and comforting. Then, without hesitation, she started showering him with sweet, feathery kisses all over his face—on his forehead, his cheeks, his nose, anywhere she could reach.

Rudraksh blinked in surprise before breaking into a soft giggle at her adorable gesture. The heaviness in his heart lightened as her love wrapped around him like a warm embrace. He pulled her closer, his arms circling her protectively, as he basked in the tenderness of her affection.

Rudraksh: "Ruhhh, kya kar rahi ho Sohneyo. Kya hua achanak??"

(Ruhhh, what are you doing, my love? What happened all of a sudden?)

Ruhanika: "Sohneyo ko Huzoor-e-ala par bahaut Prem aa raha hai, toh Sohneyo vahi kar rahi hai, karne denge???"

(Your beloved is feeling an overwhelming surge of love for her Huzoor-e-Ala, so she is simply doing what she feels like. Will you allow it?)

Rudraksh: "Achcha ji ye baat?"

(Oh really? Is that so?)

Ruhanika: "Haan ji ye baat."

(Yes, that’s exactly it.)

Ruhanika giggled, her heart swelling with love, and once again began showering Rudraksh’s face with sweet little kisses. However, this time, he had something else in mind. With a mischievous smirk, he suddenly flipped her over, hovering above her in an instant. Before she could process what was happening, he leaned in and started rubbing his rough beard against her soft neck. A burst of uncontrollable giggles escaped her lips as she squirmed beneath him, trying to escape the ticklish sensation.

Ruhanika: "Akkshhh.. bas kijiye, h...um toh prem kar rahe hai."

(Akkshhh… stop now, I… I was only expressing love!)

Rudraksh: "Main bhi prem kar raha hu Mallika-e-Aksh."

(And I am loving you too, my Mallika-e-Aksh.)

Ruhanika: "Ye wala nahi."

(Not like this.)

Rudraksh halted mid-sentence, his words dissolving into silence as he pulled back slightly. His lips curled into a smirk.

Rudraksh: "Toh phir kaisa prem Ruhh??"

(Then how, Ruhh?)

Rudraksh leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a husky whisper, he teased, even though he already knew her answer. His smirk deepened as he watched her reaction.

Rudraksh: "Batao Ruhh"

(Tell me, Ruhh.)

Ruhanika's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red as she lowered her head, her fingers nervously toying with the buttons of Rudraksh's shirt. Her heart pounded against her chest, and she bit her lip, trying to steady her breath. Rudraksh smirked at her shyness, his eyes darkening with amusement and affection.

Ruhanika: "V..o vo hume biscuits chahiye."

(W… well, I want biscuits.)

Rudraksh's smirk faded as concern took over his features. He gently cupped Ruhanika’s face, his thumb tenderly caressing her soft cheeks.

Rudraksh: "Jaana aapko bhook lagi hai, bataya kyu nahi,?? Ruhh main...."

(Oh dear, you’re hungry? Why didn’t you tell me?? Ruhh, I—)

Ruhanika gently held his hand, making him pause. He looked at her with a confused expression, wondering what she was up to.

Ruhanika: "Hume aapke biscuits chahiye."

(I want your biscuits.)

Rudraksh's eyes widened in shock and surprise. It was only then that he realized Ruhanika had already unbuttoned the top three buttons of his shirt, leaving him utterly speechless.

Rudraksh: "Ruhhhh"

Ruhanika: "Ji Aksh dikhaiye na bahaut din ho gaye aur hume bahaut manmohak bhi lagte hai, man karta hai bas niharte rahe aur aap aise hi bina shirt ke humare samne baithe rahe."

(Yes, Aksh. Show me! It’s been so long, and I find it so mesmerizing. I just want to keep looking at it, and you should sit before me just like this—without a shirt.)

Rudraksh's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red as he quickly shifted to his side, trying to mask his embarrassment. But before he could react further, Ruhanika giggled and pulled him into a hug, resting her chin on his chest. He sighed, shaking his head at her antics, but a fond smile tugged at his lips.

Ruhanika: "Dikhaiye na."

(Show me, please?)

Rudraksh: "So jao Ruhh please."

(Go to sleep, Ruhh, please.)

Rudraksh gently patted her head, hoping she would ease up, but Ruhanika showed no signs of letting go. She remained comfortably nestled against him, unwilling to change her stance.

Ruhanika: "nahi hum pehle aapke kadak pet ko niharenge use chuenge uske baad aapko prem karenge phir so jayenge."

(No! First, I will admire your chiseled body, touch it, and then I will love you… and then I’ll sleep.)

Rudraksh: "Jaana aap aisi kab se ho gayi??"

(Darling, since when have you become like this??)

Ruhanika: "Kya hume aisa nahi hona tha Aksh??"

(Why? Was I not supposed to be like this, Aksh?)

Rudraksh chuckled softly, his gaze filled with warmth as he looked at her. His hands slowly traveled under her shirt, his fingers grazing her waist in a gentle caress. A shiver ran through her at his touch, and in response, Ruhanika’s hand slipped inside his shirt, her palm resting against his chest as she rubbed slow, soothing circles.

Their eyes met, both smiling at each other, lost in the quiet intimacy of the moment. Rudraksh then cupped her cheeks tenderly, his thumbs stroking her soft skin before he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead—a silent promise of love, care, and devotion.

Rudraksh: "Tum jaisi ho jo ho mujhe vaisi hi pasand, main vaise hi pyaar karta hu tumse."

(However you are, whatever you are—I love you just the same.)

Ruhanika grinned brightly, her dimples deepening, making her look even more adorable. Rudraksh couldn’t resist and gently poked her dimples, chuckling at her cuteness. In response, she giggled and began peppering his face with soft, affectionate kisses. Rudraksh laughed, his heart feeling lighter with her endless love. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a warm hug.

Ruhanika: "Hum bhi aapse bahaut Prem karte hai, aur aap jante hai aap jab hume kuch bhi samjhate hai na tab itne manmohak lagte hai ki hum kya bataye.... Humara sabse priya drishya hai vo, haa par aapke kadak pet ke baad ha."

(I love you so much too… And do you know, when you explain things to me, you look so mesmerizing that I can't even describe it… It’s my favorite sight in the world. Well, after your chiseled body, of course.)

Rudraksh turned his face away, his cheeks flushed a deep shade of red as he tried to hide his shy smile and the unexpected blush creeping onto his face. But Ruhanika wasn’t having it. She quickly cupped his face with her small hands, gently turning it back towards her.

Ruhanika: "Areh aap humse aapka ye sharam ki lali se bhara chehra kyu chupate hai?? Hum sharmate hai toh aap hume jee bhar ke dekhte hai, phir hume kyu nahi dekhne dete hai??"

(Oh? Why are you hiding your blushing face from me?? When I blush, you look at me all you want, but why won’t you let me do the same??)

Rudraksh: "Kyuki Ruhh, tumhari baaton se main pani pani ho jata hu."

(Because, Ruhh… your words leave me utterly flustered.)

Ruhanika: "Kya??? Par kaise??? Aap toh ab bhi humare Aksh hai pani kaha huye??"

(What?? But how?? You’re still the same Aksh, you haven’t turned into water or anything…)

Rudraksh: "Tumhe batau kaise??"

(Should I explain how?)

Ruhanika nodded, and before she could react further, Rudraksh swiftly turned her around and captured her lips in a deep, longing kiss. He could feel her grin against his lips, which only made his heart race faster. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, pulling him closer as their love grew more intense and passionate.

As the kiss deepened, time seemed to blur until Ruhanika found herself breathless. Sensing it, Rudraksh slowly trailed his lips away, moving to her jaw, then down to her neck and shoulder, leaving soft, lingering kisses that sent shivers through her. Her fingers instinctively threaded into his hair, gripping lightly as she surrendered to the moment. Their breaths grew heavy, the warmth between them intensifying, and by the time Rudraksh pulled back, Ruhanika was a blushing mess.

With a soft chuckle, he shifted back to his place and pulled her tightly into his embrace. Feeling overwhelmed, she buried her face into his chest, her heart still racing. Rudraksh held her close, his hand stroking her back soothingly, cherishing the way she fit perfectly in his arms.

Rudraksh: "Ye toh tum mujhse nazrein nahi mila rahi na yahi hai sharam se pani pani hona."

(See? You can’t even look me in the eye now—that’s what it means to be flustered.)

Ruhanika smiled shyly, her cheeks tinged with warmth, and hugged him even more tightly, burying her face against him.

Ruhanika: "Suniye"

(Listen…)

Rudraksh: "Sunaiye"

(Speak…)

Ruhanika: "Ye jo hum aur aap aise prem karte hai, kya iske aage bhi kuch hota hai?? Jo hum nahi jante??"

(This love we share… is there more to it? Something beyond this… that I don’t know about?)

Rudraksh's smile faded, his expression turning serious as a sudden thought crossed his mind.

Rudraksh: "Aisa kyu laga tumhe jaan?"

(Why do you think so, my love?)

Ruhanika rested her chin on his chest and gazed up at him.

Ruhanika: "Bas lagta hai kuch hai, humare bheetar ajeeb se ehsaas hote hai jo na toh hum samajh paate hai aur na hi aapko keh paate hai kyuki hum khud nahi jante, ye kya hai"

(I don’t know, it just feels like there is. Sometimes, I feel strange things inside me—feelings I neither understand nor know how to express to you… because I myself don’t know what they are.)

Rudraksh: "Haa Ruhh, aur bhi bahaut kuch hai."

(Yes, Ruhh… there is much more.)

Ruhanika: "Toh hume bataiye na, aapne kaha tha ki hum college jaane lagenge toh aap hume nanha baby kaise aayega ye bhi batayenge."

(Then tell me. You once said that when I start college, you’ll explain to me how a little baby comes into the world.)

Rudraksh pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her close as if seeking comfort in her presence. He then pressed a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Rudraksh: "Main batana toh chahta hu Ruhh isiliye nahi kyuki mujhe chahiye vo sab par isiliye kyuki Haqq hai tumhara, janna zaruri hai tumhe... Par bas samajh nahi paa Raha kaise batau."

(I do want to tell you, Ruhh… not because I desire those things, but because it is your right to know. You should understand it. But I just don’t know how to explain it to you.)

Ruhanika: "aap bataiye na hum samajhne ka pura prayas karenge."

(Tell me, please. I will try my best to understand.)

Rudraksh: "umm betu janti ho Nima ne kaha tha ki shadi ki pehli raat aapka husband kuch karega aur aapko dard hoga."

(Umm… sweetheart, do you remember how Nima once said that on the first night of marriage, your husband will do something, and you will feel pain?)

Ruhanika: "Jii, par aap toh kitne achche hai aap hum pe hath nahi uthate."

(Yes… but you’re so kind, you would never hurt me.)

Ruhanika spoke proudly and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. Rudraksh smiled at her affectionately, his fingers gently caressing her cheek, his eyes filled with warmth and love.

Rudraksh: "Nahi jaan vo kuch aur kehna chah rahi thi aur vo main tumhe jaldi hi bataunga par kya tum mujhe zara sa waqt dogi sochne ke liye???"

(No, love. She meant something else… and I will explain it to you very soon. But… will you give me a little time to think about how to explain it?)

Ruhanika smiled softly and blinked her eyes, her expression radiating innocence and warmth.

Ruhanika: "Hume bharosa hai aap par, aap jab batayenge tab hi sahi hoga, hum intezar karenge aap chinta mat kijiye."

(I trust you. Whenever you decide to tell me, that will be the right time. I will wait. Don’t worry.)

Rudraksh smiled warmly and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Rudraksh: "thank you, chaliye Mallika-e-Aksh, ab so jaiye aap aaj bahaut kuch samajh liya hai apke pea size brain ne."

(Thank you. Now, Mallika-e-Aksh, go to sleep. Your tiny pea-sized brain has learned enough for today.)

Ruhanika: "Nahi pehle aap ye aapki shirt badal ke aaiye."

(No, first, you go and change your shirt!)

Rudraksh: "Kyu??"

(Why?)

Ruhanika: "Kyu kya?? Ye kitna patla kapda hai ye aapke badan se jaise chipak hi gaya hai, jaise aapke jism ka hi ek hissa aur phir hum aapke bheetar kaise aayenge?? Jaiye vo aap aapne dheele aadhe adhoore kapde pehen ke aaiye."

(What do you mean, why? This fabric is so thin, it’s practically glued to your body like it’s a part of your skin… and then how am I supposed to go inside you? Go wear something loose—something half-worn, half-undone.)

Rudraksh chuckled softly and gently shifted her back onto the bed, making sure she was comfortable as he carefully adjusted the covers around her.

Rudraksh: "Vaise tum chaho toh main bina shirt ke bhi so sakta hu."

(Well… if you want, I can sleep without a shirt too.)

Ruhanika: "Bilkul nahi, hume aapke bheetar hi sona hai."

(Absolutely not! I need to be inside your vest.)

Rudraksh chuckled.

Rudraksh: "Abhi aaya."

(Alright, I’ll be right back.)

Ruhanika grinned as she watched Rudraksh head to the closet. In the meantime, she busied herself with tidying up the bed, shifting her books onto her study table. Once done, she turned to find Rudraksh returning, wearing his loose vest. Without delay, Ruhanika slipped into it, feeling comforted by its warmth. She settled on top of him on his chest, and together, they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's presence, finding peace in the quiet of the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hello lovelies,🌸

Here's the next update of the week! Hope you all shower your love on the chapter.

Sorry if the chapter felt boring, but it was important for Rudraksh’s character to explain things to her patiently. 😊

Precap:

An attack in front of Ruhanika's college.

Rudraksh explains physical intimacy to Ruhanika. (Finally jiska aap sabko intezar tha🤭🤭)

Stay tuned! We'll meet next Saturday at 7 PM.

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