44. New Member

Shivaay woke up the next morning, the early sunlight streaming into his penthouse. He stretched lazily, running a hand through his messy hair, and glanced at the dupatta still lying on the bed. A faint smile tugged at his lips before he composed himself and got up to begin his day.

After a quick shower and breakfast, Shivaay dived headfirst into work. The day was packed-he spent hours reviewing important files, meticulously going through contracts and agreements. His focus was sharp, his cold and calculative demeanor back in place.

Later, he visited multiple construction sites under his company's latest projects. Dressed in a crisp suit, he inspected every detail, pointing out flaws with precision and offering solutions on the spot. His commanding presence left no room for error, and the staff worked diligently to match his expectations.

By late afternoon, Shivaay returned to his office, settling into his chair with a coffee in hand. Staring out of the large glass windows, his mind wandered briefly to Niharika. Shaking off the thoughts, he redirected his attention to the next set of files, immersing himself in work once again, determined to keep personal distractions at bay.

It was a calm night in India, the soft moonlight streaming through the windows of the Ranawat mansion. Niharika sat in her room, going through her books, when her gaze fell on her hand.

Her finger caught the light, the diamond ring she had bought earlier gleaming brilliantly. She paused, tilting her hand slightly to admire the sparkle. A small smile graced her lips as she thought about the insistence of Ishaan and Riya earlier in the day.

"They were so adamant," she murmured to herself. "This ring really is beautiful, though."

For a moment, she felt a strange warmth, as if the ring held an unspoken connection she couldn't quite place. Shrugging the feeling away, she closed her book and leaned back against the headboard, still admiring the ring.

Little did she know, across the world, the person who had chosen it for her was thinking about her just as much, their lives unknowingly intertwined by that one piece of jewelry.

Shivaay leaned back in his chair after a long day, exhausted but satisfied with his work. He grabbed his phone to check for any updates and scrolled through his messages. One from Riya caught his eye.

He opened it, and his expression shifted as he saw the photo. It was of Niharika's hand, the diamond ring he had sent her, now adorning her finger, sparkling brightly. Beneath the image, Riya's message read:

"Your work's done. Bhabhi is wearing the ring you gifted her without even knowing it's from you. Here's my ring and the bill-3 million rupees."

Shivaay chuckled darkly to himself. "And this girl said she just wanted a handbag," he murmured, shaking his head with a bemused smile. He couldn't help but feel a certain satisfaction, seeing the ring on Niharika's finger, even if she didn't know its origin.

He set the phone down, his mind briefly drifting to the thoughts of Niharika wearing his gift, her unawareness only adding to his intrigue and, strangely, his pride.

As the evening approached, Shivaay made his way back to his penthouse. He quickly showered, the day's exhaustion beginning to lift as he focused on the night ahead. The party with Charles was important-a meeting of business minds, with a side of socializing that he had learned to endure.

He dressed in a sharp, dark suit, his usual impeccable style. His hair was neatly styled, and his expression was cool and composed, masking the underlying thoughts that still lingered about Niharika and the ring.

Unbeknownst to him, the night held more than just business-it held unexpected encounters, ones that would shake him in ways he couldn't yet foresee. As he adjusted his cufflinks and checked his reflection, a sense of anticipation stirred within him, but it was nothing compared to the storm that would soon unfold.

Shivaay took one last glance at his phone, seeing no new messages. He then grabbed his keys and left the penthouse, unaware that the evening would bring him closer to Niharika in ways neither of them had anticipated.

Shivaay entered the luxurious club with his usual cold demeanor, his sharp gaze scanning the room. Dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, he exuded power and confidence, making heads turn as he walked in. The club was bustling with activity, but Shivaay's presence commanded attention, and the noise seemed to fade as he moved through the crowd.

Mr. Charles, a middle-aged man with a warm smile and a hint of nervousness, stood near the bar, sipping on his drink while glancing at the entrance. Spotting Shivaay, he quickly set his glass down and approached him with an outstretched hand.

"Mr. Ranawat, it's a pleasure to finally meet you," Mr. Charles said, his voice laced with genuine enthusiasm.

Shivaay gave a curt nod, his handshake firm. "Mr. Charles, I hope you haven't been waiting too long."

"Not at all," Mr. Charles replied with a chuckle. "I've heard a lot about you, and I must say, the reputation precedes the man."

Shivaay's lips twitched in what could barely be called a smile. "Let's get straight to business, shall we?"

"Of course, of course," Mr. Charles said, gesturing towards a private lounge area. "I've had a table reserved for us."

As they made their way to the secluded section of the club, Shivaay's mind was solely focused on the deal. He had no patience for small talk or unnecessary pleasantries. He needed to ensure this agreement benefited the Ranawat empire, and any distraction was unacceptable.

Settling into the plush leather seats, Mr. Charles signaled for the waiter and ordered drinks. Shivaay declined, opting for water instead, his sharp eyes never leaving Mr. Charles.

"So," Shivaay began, his tone firm, "shall we discuss the terms of the partnership?"

Mr. Charles leaned forward, his excitement barely contained. "Absolutely. I believe this collaboration could be groundbreaking for both of us."

As the conversation began, Shivaay's piercing gaze and calculated questions made it clear he wasn't here to waste time.

As they settled at the plush seating, Mr. Charles adjusted his blazer and leaned forward slightly, his excitement evident.

"Mr. Ranawat," Charles began, his tone both respectful and enthusiastic, "I must say, I've been looking forward to this meeting for quite some time. Your reputation precedes you."

Shivaay gave a curt nod, his expression unreadable as he gestured for the waiter to bring a glass of water.

Charles continued, "Before we get into the details of our business venture, there's someone I want you to meet. A new partner I've brought on board-a sharp mind, excellent connections, and a vision that aligns perfectly with ours."

Shivaay's eyes narrowed slightly, his curiosity piqued. "And this partner? Are they already involved in our dealings?"

Charles chuckled, shaking his head. "Not yet, but they've been instrumental in expanding our reach in Europe. They should be here any moment now. I'm certain you'll appreciate their expertise."

Shivaay leaned back, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "I hope they live up to your expectations, Mr. Charles. I don't work with amateurs."

Charles smiled, unperturbed by Shivaay's bluntness. "I assure you, this person is anything but."

As the conversation shifted to their ongoing projects, the door to the private section of the club opened, and a figure stepped in, their presence immediately commanding attention. Charles's face lit up as he stood to greet the newcomer.

"Ah, here they are," he said, turning to Shivaay. "Mr. Ranawat, let me introduce you to..."

"Kanishk Verma," Charles said with a hint of pride, gesturing toward the man who had just arrived. "One of the brightest minds I've had the privilege to work with. He's my new business partner."

Shivaay froze for a fraction of a second, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he took in the man before him. He recognized Kanishk instantly-the man responsible for a painful chapter in Niharika's life. His jaw clenched, but years of discipline in the business world kept his anger from surfacing. Instead, he masked his emotions behind a calm and composed exterior.

Kanishk, oblivious to Shivaay's inner turmoil, approached with his usual confidence, extending a hand. "Mr. Ranawat," he said smoothly, a polite smile on his face. "I've heard a great deal about you. It's an honor to meet the man behind the legacy of the Ranawats."

Shivaay shook his hand, his grip firm, his expression unreadable. His piercing gaze bore into Kanishk, but his voice remained calm. "Kanishk Verma," he said, his tone steady yet cold. "I've heard of you as well."

The weight of unspoken tension hung between them, though Kanishk seemed unaware.

Charles, noticing nothing, smiled. "I knew you two would get along. Kanishk has been a game-changer for my ventures."

"Is that so?" Shivaay said, his voice laced with subtle challenge. He withdrew his hand and straightened his posture. "Let's see if he lives up to the reputation."

Kanishk smirked, taking Shivaay's words as a test of his capabilities. "I look forward to proving myself, Mr. Ranawat. I've always admired the way you conduct business-efficient, ruthless, and always ahead of the game."

"Admiration is one thing," Shivaay replied, his tone sharp, "but in this room, actions speak louder than words. Shall we see what you bring to the table?"

Inside, Shivaay's mind churned. He recalled how Kanishk had crossed paths with Niharika, leaving her in pain and humiliation. The urge to confront him surged within, but Shivaay knew this wasn't the time or place. For now, he would observe-and wait for the perfect moment to remind Kanishk who he was dealing with.

The meeting began, but Shivaay's focus wavered. Kanishk's honey-piercing eyes, brimming with fake confidence and charm, were a constant irritant. Every time Kanishk spoke, gesturing smoothly with his hands and flashing that practiced smile, Shivaay felt his blood boil.

His presence was undeniable, exuding an aura of self-assuredness that seemed to grate on Shivaay's every nerve. It wasn't just Kanishk's words or demeanor; it was the memory of what he had done. The thought of him laying even a finger on Niharika made Shivaay's fists clench under the table.

He envisioned grabbing Kanishk by the neck, slamming his face into the polished surface of the conference table, and watching his smug expression crumble into fear. The sheer thought gave him a twisted sense of satisfaction, but he quickly snapped himself back to reality.

Shivaay adjusted his cufflinks, a subtle attempt to channel his frustration into composure. This wasn't the time or place for an outburst. The deal was too critical to jeopardize with personal vendettas, and he couldn't afford to lose control. Not here. Not now.

As Kanishk continued presenting, his voice laced with pretentious enthusiasm, Shivaay's gaze hardened. Beneath the calm façade, a storm brewed within him. He would bide his time, let Kanishk play his games, and then strike when the moment was right.

For now, Shivaay focused on the bigger picture, but he silently vowed: You'll pay for everything, Kanishk Verma. Every single thing.

Later that evening, when everyone was preparing to leave, Kanishk stopped Shivaay just outside the restaurant. His voice echoed through the night air, laced with an unsettling calm.

"Ranawat," Kanishk greeted, his tone dripping with false politeness. "You and I have unfinished business, don’t we?"

Shivaay’s steps were measured, his face an unreadable mask, as he turned to face the man who had haunted his thoughts for too long. "What do you want, Verma?"

Kanishk’s grin widened, his eyes glinting with malice. "Just a little chat. About Niharika."

The mention of her name sent a jolt through Shivaay, his eyes momentarily flashing with a dangerous intensity. But he held his composure, waiting for Kanishk to continue.

"You know," Kanishk mused, his tone like a blade, "I’ve been wondering... how does it feel to have someone like her? Soft, pure, and so... untouchable." He took a step forward, his gaze never leaving Shivaay. "But then again, maybe not entirely untouchable, right? After all, I’ve had my moments with her, too."

That was the trigger.

In an instant, Shivaay closed the gap between them. His hand shot out, grabbing Kanishk by the collar and slamming him against the sleek black car. His face was inches from Kanishk’s, his voice a low, venomous growl.

"Don’t you dare, Verma. Don’t even think about her, let alone speak her name. She’s mine. My wife. My everything. You’re nothing but a stain she’s left behind."

Kanishk barely flinched, though the impact left a visible ache in his posture. He chuckled darkly, his gaze filled with amusement. "Yours? Oh, Shivaay," he mocked, "don’t fool yourself. Do you really think she belongs to you? She’s too good for this cage you’ve built around her."

Shivaay’s grip tightened, his knuckles white, his heart pounding in fury. "She’s with me because she chooses to be. And I’ll destroy anyone who dares to take her from me." His words were razor-sharp, a threat that dripped with finality. "Do you hear me, Kanishk? I’ll make sure you regret every word, every thought about her."

Kanishk smirked, pushing against Shivaay’s grip as he straightened his collar with mock indifference. "We’ll see, Ranawat," he said coolly, his tone still taunting. "Possession doesn’t mean love. And one day, she’ll realize that."

Shivaay stood frozen for a moment, his chest heaving with barely contained rage. He didn’t trust himself to speak, knowing he would say something he might regret. Instead, he just watched Kanishk walk away, a sickening smile on the other man’s face.

As the sound of Kanishk’s footsteps faded, Shivaay’s resolve hardened. No one—no one—would come near Niharika again. She was his, and he would destroy anyone who dared to threaten that. His love for her burned brighter than ever, and he would protect her from every dark corner of her past, even if it meant waging war on every shadow that came her way.

She was his. And he wouldn’t let anyone tarnish that.

As Shivaay stood there, fuming with anger and his mind racing, his phone buzzed, breaking the silence of the night. He glanced at the screen, and his blood ran cold when he saw the message: "The game begins."

The hairs on the back of his neck stood up as he instinctively knew who it was from. Kanishk.

Before he could process it further, his phone vibrated again. This time, the message was even more chilling: "Niharika is mine. Get that, Shivaay. I will get her, whether you or she wants it or not."

Shivaay's fingers tightened around the phone, his grip becoming possessive as his anger surged. The words were like a slap to the face, each one a reminder of the sick game Kanishk was playing. The audacity. The threat.

Shivaay’s breathing grew shallow, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles were white. A surge of protectiveness for Niharika flooded his chest. She had already been through enough, and Kanishk's words—his twisted obsession—would not break her. Shivaay swore that no matter what it took, he would never let Kanishk have her.

The game had begun, but Shivaay wasn’t about to lose. Not when it came to Niharika. He would make sure Kanishk knew exactly who she belonged to.

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