Word count- 4.5k

After this chapter , Runway chapter(Reel wala scene) will be uploaded .

Author's POV-

At Niketan(Tuaji) House.

Trisha Gupta stood in the dimly lit living room of Niketan House, her father's stern gaze fixed upon her. The weight of his expectations was a familiar burden she had carried for as long as she could remember.

-Trisha,you just have to do one thing, and then I will agree to your request to go to work.

her father, Tuaji, began with a tone that was more command than conversation,

His words hung in the air, heavy with the implication that her autonomy was contingent upon fulfilling his demands. For Tuaji, Trisha had always been a means to an end, a tool to maintain his esteemed position in society. From the day she was born, it was evident that her value in his eyes was often overshadowed by the pride he placed in her elder brother.

Growing up, Trisha had observed the stark difference in the way her father treated her compared to her brother. While her brother received an abundance of love and affection, she often found herself on the periphery, yearning for the same warmth and acceptance. Yet, she never let this disparity define her. Trisha was determined to carve out her own path, even if it meant navigating the rocky terrain of her father's expectations.

Her desire to work was not just about financial independence; it was about asserting her identity, about proving to herself and the world that she was more than just her father's daughter. Trisha knew that her ambitions were a source of contention in a household where tradition often dictated the roles each member played.

-Papa,I am willing to listen. What is it that you require of me?

she replied, her voice steady but respectful

Trisha's question was more than just a formality, she understood that meeting his conditions was a temporary compromise in her larger journey towards independence.

Sunita gupta (trisha mom)

-Why are you here, huh? After all the years of torture in the name of maintaining her position in school, then college, and even now-it's just an illusion to even recognize her as your daughter. You are forcing her to do your dirty work.

She was furious after she came to know about his intentions of using Trisha for his own benefits.

Niketan-So, what do you want me to do? Five years ago, you took her from me. I took care of my son all alone.

He replied in a stern tone.

-Bhagwan ke liye bas bhi kijiye, vo 26 saal ka hai , apna khyal khud rakh sakta hai.

She was done with his useless excuses.

-yes but that time he was 21 years old, college going student. So i cooked his meals on time took care of his assignments and everything. His college fees are expensive you know that!!!!

He replied back while shouting.

-And I was doing all this since he was born, but did you ever see me complaining about it? Just admit it, you can't do a single thing right in your whole life.

she said.

Her tone was calm, but it had the power of a strong storm, reflecting all 30 years of their marriage.

-I see you are talking too much after separating from me, i think you need to know your place.

He said while charging towards her.

But..... OH BOY OH MAN...

LITTLE DID HE KNOW.

She swiftly took out a kitchen  knife out, pointing at his direction.

Sunita-Haddhi kamjoor hai toh kya Badjuo main abhi bhi apne baccho ko bachane ka dam hai.

[Even if my bones are weak so what, my arms still have the strength to save my kids?]

Aarush silently whistled, impressed by his mother's retaliation. I always wanted to do that, he thought.

Trisha- Bhai aap kuch kijiye.

She said to her brother Aarush.

He just shook his head telling her to go back to her room.

-Go to your room, i will be there with snacks.

She nodded and went back.

NEXT DAY-

The morning sun cast a gentle glow through the large windows of the quaint coffee shop. The air was filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soft hum of quiet conversations.

As she sipped her cappuccino, her phone buzzed, breaking the serene ambiance. It was a message from her father, its tone urgent but familiar, requesting her presence at the coffee shop. He needed to talk, and she knew it was important.

A few minutes later, the bell above the door jingled, announcing her father's arrival. His face wore a weary expression, but his eyes held a glimmer of hope. He approached her with a gentle smile, pulling up a chair across from her.

Niketan-Thank you for coming.I've been thinking a lot about everything, and I wanted to talk to you face-to-face.

He began, his voice warm yet tinged with concern.

She nodded signalling him to go on.

Niketan - My company is not doing we and i am struggling alot financially and emotionally too. My sweet child 2 days ago i met Saksham Suryavanshi ji from Royal Family he told me about Roshni and Yuvraj marriage alliance. He... he wanted to give a surprise to his family like a family portraits. I know aside from engineering, you are an amazing photographer and he wants you to secretly captured all moments. So will you come with me tomorrow at Royal palace.

He was sweating a lot and was a nervous wreck too. He hesitated to reveal his entire plan. Secretly, he was being paid a substantial amount by Saksham to capture photographs of Roshni and Yuvraj that would make headlines everywhere. He was using Trisha as a shield to fulfill his greed for the money promised by Saksham.

Trisha was as always innocently manipulated by her dad.

- Okay i will be there papa.

She smiled at him.

- Thankyou my child, i will come and pick you up tomorrow and please don't tell your mom.

She simply accepted his request.

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It was trisha who used Window cleaner spot to capture Roshni and Samrat picture then she move forward to click Darpook Kritagya and everyone else too.

But she didn't know that her present work will affect her future.

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Back to when Trisha And Niketan entered Royal palace.

Kritagya --Y...yes hello.

He said while his focus was completely shattered.

Dadaji - Saksham you want to say something?

He asked to his younger son.

Saksham smiled at niketan and trisha

- please come inside and jave lunch with us. Baba-sa i am working on a project with Mr.Niketan Gupta and i have invited him for a lunch today too.

Dada was skeptical about this but choose to let go of this matter right now.

Smarat Dadi-sa - Badhai ho bete Yuvraj kal Aapki aur Roshni beta ki Sagai hai.

She congratulated to him.

Samrat was confused- But didn't we all agreed to wait for this marriage.

Trisha- Wow Roshni di Congratulations.

She hugged roshni lightly.

Both of them share and sweet and bitter cousin relation. Not close but not far type of.

Smriti- Wedding will take place after years but engagement-

Vikram- Yuvarj engagement karne main Roshni beta bhi taiyaar hai. And this will be small gathering only closed ones to us.

Samrat looked at roshni - Are you okay with this? LISTEN if you have a single doubt or hesitation we can postpone this.

He assured her.

Roshni- I am okay .🙂

She told him shyly

[A/N- I’m  okay  i am fine kinchana teng deng teng]

Why is he asking me infront of everyone like this oh noo... what will rani-sa and Rana-sa will think.

Kritagya- Hawwww humse toh kabhi bhi aapne itne pyara se nahi pucha....

He playfully teased him.

Nayak- Kya saagai ke liye?

He was confused.

Roshni and trisha giggles at him.

......

Mugdha - Wait wait .... nakku you also want to get engaged.. please say yes please 🥺

She hurriedly runs towards him and cupped his big face in her small hands.

Nayak- No maa-sa i was just asking.

He simply replied while removing her hands.

Kritgaya- You didn't get it na bhai -sa , No wonder you are still single.

He mocked him while smirking at him.

Trisha was observing Kritgaya quietly, he was very different from how he was in college.

Everyone laughed at them and went inside.

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Warning mention of death and blood

Nayak pov

It was nighttime, and after Bhabi-sa and her family had left for their home, I retreated to my room, lost in thought about her. The quiet of the house provided a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions swirling in my mind. Her words echoed in my head, each syllable a reminder of the years we had spent together.

I sat on the edge of my bed,

Marriage

Shaadi

Or kya hannn... sagai ..

I still remember 6 years ago when i went to A wedding for my mission.

Disgusted myself as a Photographer to collect the information about the Upcoming tender by Malhotra Family .My Father's project was completely at risk and the information about tender was very important.

He told me more like order-

- Go there, do what ever you can do just give me all the importance information about it.

All this is just waste of time for me but still i have to do it.

I went there  as a photographer with Ranjiv and two of my most trusted man.

At Malhotra's Wedding (Five Star Resorts and Hotel) , New Delhi.

Ranjiv- Boss i am going inside Malhotra's Room maybe information is hidden inside Daniel will guard the Door.

His voice comes in my Earpiece.

          ● The Mission Begins●

Ranjiv moved quietly, his footsteps muffled by the plush carpet as he approached Malhotra's room. The air was tense with anticipation, and he could feel his heart racing. Daniel stood vigilant at the door, his eyes scanning the corridor for any sign of movement.

Ranjiv- Alright, I'm inside, the room is empty, but I need to be thorough. There's got to be something here.

He whispered, his voice barely audible in the earpiece.

He began systematically searching the room, carefully checking drawers, shelves, and hidden compartments. He knew that time was of the essence, and every second counted.

Nayak moved with purpose through the bustling wedding hall, blending in with the guests. The Haldi ceremony was in full swing, vibrant and joyous, providing the perfect cover for their operation. He nodded politely to a few guests as he passed, maintaining the façade of being just another attendee.

Nayak- Ranjiv, any luck?

He inquired, his voice steady despite the noise around him.

Ranjiv- Not yet, but I'm getting close. There's a safe here that looks promising.

Ranjiv replied, a hint of excitement in his voice.

Nayak knew they had to act swiftly. The Sangeet was scheduled for later that evening, and it was crucial they were long gone before the festivities began.

Nayak- Stay sharp, Ranjiv. We need to be out of here before anyone notices. I'll keep an eye on the schedule and give you the heads-up when it's time to move.

Ranjiv- Roger that. I'll have this safe cracked in no time.

Ranjiv assured, his fingers deftly working the lock.

As the clock ticked closer to their departure, both men knew the success of their mission depended on their precision and stealth. It was a delicate dance of timing and skill, one they had trained for but never taken lightly.

But then light  three times Taps on his shoulders made him freeze.

Nayak turned abruptly, his eyes locking onto the source of the teasing voice. It belonged to a young woman, her head barely reaching above his shoulders. Her eyes glimmered with a mischievous sparkle, and a playful smirk danced on her lips. She had been a constant thorn in his side for the past two days, always appearing at the most inconvenient moments to disrupt his plans.

— Who are you talking to, is it the ghost, huh? she teased, her voice a soft melody that belied the chaos she seemed to enjoy causing.

Nayak sighed, exasperation etched into his features.

—What do you want this time Ms. SHARMA MAM .

he asked, his tone a mix of weariness and resignation. He had no time for games, especially with the wedding festivities in full swing and his mission at stake.

— Ms. SHAMRA NAHI RANYA SHARMA NAAM HAI MERA...and i was just making sure you're not getting into too much trouble. Wouldn't want you to miss the big day,

The girl shrugged, her smile widening.  she replied, her voice dripping with mock innocence.

-I don't have time for this. I'm on a tight schedule, and I can't afford any distractions.

Nayak shook his head, trying to focus on the task at hand, he said firmly, hoping she would take the hint and leave him to his work.

— Why are you policeman? Gunde pakadna hai kya?

She asked him while looking at him suspiciously.

Nayak— Madam i am photographer, so how can i catch gunda?

Ranya- Waise Body shody dekh kar toh Trained officer lagte ho.

She said while scanning his from head to toe.

Nayak- Huhhh!!!!! Are you like checking me out?

He gasps , first time having a female encounter like this.

Ranya- Kyuuuuu, are you enjoying my attention hmmmmm..

She teased him.

Nayak face was turning red from the frustration.

— Are meri maa , please let me go..

He said while running away from her.

— Wait Mr. Click.pic i haven't even got your  number.

She said while chasing after him.

After a while he reached a safe spot near pool and turned around to see if she is still following him or not. But fortunately she was nowhere on sight.

He  turned to continue his mission, he couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious girl was and why she seemed so intent on meddling in his affairs. Her presence was both a puzzle and an annoyance, one he couldn't afford to let linger in his mind as he prepared for the night's events.

Author's POV

Riddhi (The bride / Bff of Ranya)

Riddhi, the bride and Ranya's best friend, approached with a curious expression. Her intricate Haldi  attire shimmered under the soft lighting, a perfect match to the joyful occasion. Her eyes, filled with warmth and a hint of playful mischief, met Ranya's.

—Why are you troubling that innocent photographer?

Riddhi asked, her voice a mixture of amusement and genuine concern.

— What troubling and me?No way, I just wanted his number.

Ranya feigned innocence, her fingers deftly twirling the fragrant gajra in her hair. she retorted with a faux gasp. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, and a sly grin spread across her face.

—You never change, do you? Always up to something.

Riddhi laughed, shaking her head.she teased, nudging Ranya gently.

— What can I say? The wedding chaos brings out the best in me. And also he looks exactly like my Fictional Crush.

You know, the book I'm reading has a character who is exactly like him. But there's one problem: I think he's hiding something. How about I find out what it is?

Ranya shrugged, her smile widening as mischief glint in her eyes.

- Oye ACP from CID wait relax aise kaise, you are reading too much enemies to lovers, LAFS trope and  hidden identity tropes stop all this nonsense. Reality main aaa bhaii.... zara.

Riddhi said while scolding her.

Ranya- Reality eww.... fictional wowwww.

She was in her own world.

Riddhi- Okay go find it out but you will fail.

She challenged her.

Ranya- Thik hai agar karli toh , tera Favorite mobile cover mera What say, want to bet on it.

She replied back to her.

Riddhi- Hawwwww... teri hamesha se nazar thi na uspe, no bet on something else.

She is trying to divert her attention from her Favorite mobile cover , which she bought with her first earning.

Ranya - Phattu

She murmurs under her breath.

Riddhi stands up in ekta kapoor serial type-

Aye.

Aye

Aye.....

Phattu kisko bola, okay i will bet on it what you have to offer me say ?

She accepted her challenge.

Ranya- My favorite hairpin.

Riddhi- Kanjus

She murmurs under her breath.

Now it was Ranya turn

- Aye

Aye

Aye...

Yana rascala mera Hairpin is expensive.

Ranya was angry now.

Riddhi looked at her with done face but still accepted her bet.

Ranya - Thik hai Thik hai, Gupchup khilaungi.

She was bargaining.

Riddhi- really , okay bet on it.

From there Ranya started following Nayak every move to win the bet.

But what she didn't know that this was the last time she will smile whole heartedly.

Boom!!!!!!!

Sangeet event was going on then suddenly a blast went off  near the bride's room.

Nayak and his team immediately comes to action, emergency Fire fighters were called but no one can save the bride today.

The room was completely destroyed,  inside the room ,Riddhi   was on the floor burned from the blast,  taking her last breath.

Everyone was gathered outside but no one dared to go into the room.

Bride's parents was with Ranya , she was trying to calm down both of them but Riddhi's mother was crying non-stop and Her Father was standing emotionless like a big shock hit him.

When Ranya saw Nayak going inside the room, she also followed him.

Riddhi- Ranya ... ranya is it you??

She was motionless but still calling out to her.

Nayak- What are you doing here, go back it's dangerous in here.

He shouted at Ranya, while picking up Riddhi in his arms.

Riddhi- Kunwarsa it was him , the groom he was the one you were searching for. He got the tender and he tried to k!ll me.

Ranya - What are you saying and who is Kunwarsa, what is going on here??

She was shaking badly while holding Riddhi's Hand.

Riddhi- Tu sahi thi, go pick up my Phone cover , you won. He is here for something else. He is not photo....photographer.

She was saying all this with great difficulty.

Ranya- But why would jija ji will do this?

She couldn't believe, what she was hearing right now.

Nayak- It's  okay Riddhi ji , Let's go outside and talk.

He was trying to calm both of them down.

Riddhi- Bhaiya... bhaiya please don't leave  him make sure he will suffer in Hell promise me.

She took out her pinky finger with great difficulty which was also bleeding.

Nayak- I will.

He promised to her.

That was the last time she took a breath and everything turned dark.

Hallow black.

Ranya- No!!!!!!

She tried to wake her up but there is no hope.

The medics came and took her to hospital,  Ranya was sitting on a bench oustide , The fire fighter's  are doing their job.

Ranya clutched Riddhi's phone cover tightly in her hands while crying loudly.

Ranya- Only you, ek tu hi toh thi jo mujhe samajhti thi.

Nayak comes close to her and kneeled infront of her- What happened to her was something i have never expected,  she was not only my colleague but also like a sister. I am sorry Ms. Ranya.

He was sad about what happened to riddhi and also equally a

furious too.

Ranya looked towards him

- you knew she could be in danger , then how can you let this all happen.

She screamed at him. TEARS WERE falling like a waterfall from her eyes.

Nayak- I am sorry Ms. RANYA---

Ranya-  Slapp!!!

It's  Ms.sharma for you and you go away don't you  dare to show your face to me ever again.

She slapped him.

Nayak- I promise he will pay for his sin.

Nayak clutched his fist tightly,  he don't know why her words are piercing his heart like niddle. But he thought it would be best if he leave her alone right now.

Ranya- I hope you can do it, because you are the Great Kunwarsa, aren't you? Sure, power and money will help you, but remember this, I am also her best friend, and I will not rest until he is breathing.

She told him while preparing  a plan to finish him off.

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At D'core Club-

A/N-I will not name him right now for the plot.

The groom who just took the life of a girl , was hiding in here. He was scared after he saw one of Suryavanshi bodyguard at the Resort.

He knew his cover has blown right now.

They must  be searching for him, so he first took the tender and when riddhi tried to stop him. He did what he thought was right at that moment to do.

(A/n it wasn't right )

- Dad i need atleast 50 men to protect me tonight.

He said to his father on phone.

- Did you get the tender?

His father asked him

- Yes i secured it , those idiots didn't even know that i have it with me.

He said while trying to sound as quietly as he can.

- Why are you whispering. Don't worry they are already there. I knew you will go there.

His father assured him about his safety and disconnected the call.

THE groom took a deep breath and  got up to open the Door towards hallway  bit what he saw was something he never dreamed of.

The entire hallway was bathe in blood.

The while color ceiling has turned into deep red colour.

In the hallway stood Nayak with a knife in left hand and Pistol in right.

- Your countdown begin that time when you thought about hurting her.

Nayak strolled towards him carefully not to step on anyone's body.

Ranjiv and his trio are fighting off remaining men outside.

Nayak trapped him into wall and took the tender from his hand and swiftly tucked it, inside his coat which is turned from blue color to red.

- Stopp i will finish him, don't you dare Kunwar-sa.

Ranya suddenly showed up out of nowhere.

Her voice echoed in the entire hallway.

When the groom saw her she was a perfect reflection of Wrath and revenge.

She was furious, on the edge to destroy everything.

Ranjiv- Mam please leave from here, Kunwar-sa is taking care of everything.

He shouted from behind her  !!

Ranya slowly tilted her head and gave a emotionless look to Nayak- Yes he really did took care of my Riddhi.

She replied to him.

Ranya walked into the club, her presence commanding attention with every step she took. She was dressed in a strapless, mid-thigh black dress that clung perfectly to her form, exuding a sense of elegance and confidence. Her eyes were devoid of emotion, focused solely on the purpose of her visit.

As she navigated through the crowd of dead bodies . Ranya was not someone easily distracted by the frivolities of the scene around her. Her mind was set on her objective, and she intended to accomplish it with the utmost precision.

With each step, she edged closer to her destination, her thoughts solely on the task she needed to complete.

Now here she is , when she spotted Nayak she immediately follow him.

She made her move towards NAYAK,but her eyes solely focused on the murderer of her bestfriend.

The sight of all the dead bodies was nauseous for her but she still hold it.

Now she was trying to take the Pistol from Nayak's grip.

— Give me that, let me end his chapter here.

She said almost like pleading to him, while looking straight into his eyes.

Nayak shook his head.

- You don't need to taint your hands with this scumbags, blood.

The groom who was watching this exchange between them.

- Have you ever killed anyone girl?

He asked her.

She wasn't in the mood to listen to anything,  swiftly she grabbed his gun and shoot at him.

But the gun wasn't loaded.

That man started laughing and then launched himself at her, Nayak was a little late to understand the situation.

But Ranya poked both of his eyes with  her own hair pin Riddhi wanted.

—This is the final goodbye Riddhi.

She said while falling down she was losing her conscious .

That man was gone and Nayak turned her around and tightly held her in his arms.

The dim light flickering on the celling,  all the smell of blood the scene was more like graveyard but to Nayak it was like a blooming farm.

His heart completely belong to her from now on.

He took her face in his palm.

- Ranya wake up , are you alright?

She lightly blinked her eyes and gestured him to come close to her.

Ranya, half-awake from the exhaustion of the day's events, slowly opened her eyes. Her gaze fell on Nayak as he leaned in closer, wondering what she wanted to say, Ranya surprised him by reaching up and kissing him gently on the lips.

The kiss was soft and unexpected, leaving Nayak momentarily stunned. It was as if time paused, the chaos of their surroundings fading into the background. A mix of emotions rushed through him—surprise, affection, and a profound sense of connection.

As she pulled away, Ranya whispered,

—Be careful, okay? I’ll be waiting for you.

Her voice was soft yet filled with a sincerity that touched Nayak deeply.

Nayak, regaining his composure, nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. –i  am sorry, i will be gone till then.

He said while making her wear his coat and picked her up in bridal style.

With a final glance at Ranya, Nayak turned and exited the room, his mind focused on the task ahead but his heart buoyed by the warmth of her unexpected kiss.

Still i miss her alot.

HIS FLASHBACK ENDS.

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Next Day ROSHNI AND SAMRAT'S Engagement -

The engagement hall was beautifully decorated by Roshni’s father, who had spared no effort in ensuring every detail was perfect. The room was adorned with cascading floral arrangements and twinkling fairy lights, casting a warm, inviting glow that enveloped the guests. It was a setting designed to celebrate love and new beginnings.

As the ceremony reached its pivotal moment, anticipation hung in the air. Just as they were about to exchange rings, a sudden commotion rippled through the crowd. Whispers and gasps erupted as an intimate photo of Roshni with Samrat began circulating among the guests, projected onto the large screen intended for showcasing cherished memories.

Roshni’s face turned ashen as she realized the gravity of the situation. Her heart pounded in her chest, and a wave of disbelief washed over her. She turned to Samrat, her eyes filled with a mixture of hurt and anger. The betrayal she felt was palpable.

In a moment of impulse, fueled by raw emotion, Roshni slapped Samrat across the face. The sound echoed in the now silent hall. She believed he was responsible for the leak of the image, a cruel twist in what was meant to be a joyful occasion. The guests watched in stunned silence, the joyous atmosphere shattered by the unexpected turn of events.

The engagement had suddenly turned into a scene of chaos and confusion, leaving everyone questioning what had truly happened and who was behind the scandalous leak. As the night unfolded, it became clear that the path to the wedding was now fraught with uncertainty and mistrust.

Fin...