𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟖| 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐛𝐲𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐲

Author pov:

The Rajawat Mansion was decorative with lights ,the grand halls adorned with shimmering chandeliers and floral arrangements in hues of crimson and gold making last-minute adjustments for the evening's grand reception party of Rajveer and Saanvi.

Fifteen days had passed since their wedding, and the elders of the family had decided it was time to formally introduce Saanvi as the daughter in law of the Rajawat family.

Tanvi stormed through the hallways, her sharp heels clicking against the marble floors. She was engrossed in a call, her brows furrowed in frustration as she handled last-minute arrangements for the evening.

"Just fix it, Vishal, I don't care how, but I want the arrangements to be perfect-"

Before she could finish, she felt a sudden force slam into her. The impact sent her phone flying out of her grip, and before she could even register what had happened, she heard the unmistakable sound of glass shattering against the hard floor.

A heavy silence hung between them for a fraction of a second before her gaze snapped upward, burning with fury.

And there he stood.

Dhruv.

Chuchundar

Her breath hitched for a moment not that she'd ever admit it. He was clad in a crisp navy blue shirt, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, paired with black trousers. His thick hair was tousled, as if he had run a hand through it too many times in frustration. His strong jaw was clenched, and his eyes those piercing, dark eyes held the same challenge they always did when they looked at her.

Of all people, it had to be him.

"You-" she seethed, her voice dangerously low, gripping the phone case that was now nothing but a pile of shattered glass. "Do you even know what you just did Chuchundar?"

Dhruv blinked at her, unfazed. "It's just a phone, Miss Adaa and what you called me Chuchundar."

Her nostrils flared. "Oh, just a phone? That was my work phone, idiot stupid.All my contacts, important messages-"

"You should've been more careful." He crossed his arms over his broad chest, his nonchalant stance only fueling her frustration further.

Tanvi let out a sharp, humorless laugh. "Oh, right. So now it's my fault?"

"Well, yeah. You were the one walking blindly while on a call," he pointed out, his tone infuriatingly calm.

She gritted her teeth, stepping closer, jabbing a finger into his chest. "Listen, Mr. Too-Proud-to-Apologize , if you weren't so busy walking around like you own the place, maybe just you'd have enough sense to watch where you're going."

Dhruv arched a brow, his lips twitching as if he were amused. "Well, technically, I do own this place. And if I recall correctly, you were the one glued to your phone, completely oblivious to your surroundings."

Her glare deepened. "Ugh! You are impossible!"

"And you're overreacting." He smirked, enjoying the way her cheeks tinged with a faint blush the kind that only appeared when she was truly enraged.

Tanvi clenched her fists, her sharp tongue ready with another retort when a voice interrupted them.

"Guys, please tell me you're not fighting again?"

They turned to see Ishika standing a few feet away, arms crossed, her face a mixture of exasperation and amusement.

Behind her, Karan and Kiara stood, both shaking their heads as if this was an all-too-familiar sight.

"Not fighting. Discussing," Dhruv corrected smoothly.

Tanvi let out an incredulous scoff. "Oh, please!"

"Seriously, you two need a truce," Karan chimed in. "Every time you're in the same room, it's like an earthquake waiting to happen."

Tanvi huffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Tell that to him. I don't start these arguments."

Dhruv smirked. "That's debatable."

Ishika groaned. "Okay, before you two start a full-blown war, let's focus on the event. The guests will be arriving in a few hours, and we still have a lot to do."

Tanvi exhaled sharply, collecting herself. "Fine. But someone's buying me a new phone," she shot Dhruv a pointed look.

"Not happening," he replied smoothly.

She glared. "Oh, it is happening."

"Over my dead body."

"Tempting offer."

Ishika sighed, rubbing her temples. "I swear, if you both aren't married to other people one day, I'll be shocked."

Tanvi's eyes widened, and she turned to Ishika, flustered. "Excuse me?!"

Dhruv, on the other hand, merely chuckled before walking away, leaving Tanvi fuming in place.

As he disappeared down the hall, she realized something.

Her heart was still racing.

And it had nothing to do with anger.

____🌷

At Reception Party

_____

Author Pov:

The mansion was filled with guests, the air buzzing with conversations and the soft clinking of glasses. Business partners and family friends were engaged in discussions, their voices blending with the music playing in the background.

The song "Tere Hoke Rahenge" filled the space, adding a romantic touch to the evening.

Saanvi stepped down the grand staircase, her deep red saree draping elegantly around her. The diamond earrings sparkled under the white shimmery lights, and her long, open hair framed her face perfectly. The delicate nuptial chain resting against her collarbone was a silent testament to her marriage.

As she scanned the room, her eyes landed on her parents, who were engaged in conversation with her mother-in-law and father-in-law. A warm smile spread across her lips as she walked towards them.

"Mumma, Dada,"she called softly, her voice filled with warmth.

Her mother turned first, her face lighting up. "Saanvi, beta! You look so beautiful ."

Her father nodded approvingly. "Truly, red suits you well."

Saanvi smiled and hugged them both tightly. "I missed you both," she murmured, inhaling the familiar scent of home.

Her mother-in-law, who had been watching with an affectionate smile, spoke up. "And what about us, betu? Don't we get a hug?"

Saanvi chuckled before turning to her in-laws and hugging them as well. "Of course, Mummy ji .You and Dad are just as special."

Her father-in-law patted her head. "You've made this house brighter, beta. We're lucky to have you in our life."

Saanvi's heart warmed at the words. This was home. These were her people.

Just then, the music changed, and the guests clapped as someone made an announcement. But Saanvi wasn't paying attention anymore.

Because at that moment, she felt a familiar gaze on her.

A gaze that had always held the power to make her heart race.

Raj.

She didn't have to turn around to know he was watching her. She could feel it. And when she finally did turn, her breath caught.

He stood across the hall, dressed in a crisp black suit, his sharp features illuminated by the golden lights. His dark eyes locked onto hers, filled with something deep, something dangerous, something undeniably his.

A slow smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

______🌷

Saanvi's POV:

I took a moment away from my mom and dad, letting them enjoy the celebration while I made my way toward my best friends, Tanvi and Ishika. Both of them looked stunning in their shimmery sarees, chatting and laughing about something. As I reached them, Ishika leaned in with a playful but serious expression.

"Someone was staring at our husbands," she said, her voice just loud enough for Tanvi and me to hear over the music.

I frowned, exchanging a confused look with Tanvi before we both burst into laughter.

"What? Our husbands?" I teased, raising an eyebrow.

Ishika rolled her eyes. "I mean, my Adi and Rajveer jiju," she clarified, crossing her arms.

Tanvi and I glanced at each other before smirking at her exaggerated possessiveness. But before we could tease her further, curiosity got the best of me.

"Who are you talking about?" I asked, scanning the crowd.

Ishika tilted her head slightly, signaling toward esha and ishani standing near the bar, her eyes fixated on Rajveer and Aditya bhai as they were taking with his business partner.

My smile faded as I observed her closely. There was something unsettling about the way she looked at them especially at Raj.

I took a deep breath, straightened my saree, and walked toward Raj with slow, deliberate steps. My anklets chimed softly with every movement, and I could feel the weight of multiple eyes on me not just from the guests, but more importantly, from her. The woman Ishika had pointed out.

Her gaze flickered toward me, and I caught the briefest glimpse of disappointment flash across her face when she realized I was heading straight for the man she had been eyeing all night.

Raj still stood near the bar, engaged in a conversation with a few business associates, his expression composed, confident, and unreadable as always. But the moment I approached, his dark eyes shifted, locking onto mine like a magnet.

And just like that, the entire room faded. That was the effect he had on me. It had always been like this.

But tonight, I wanted to make sure that effect worked both ways.

A smirk tugged at my lips as I reached him. Without a word, I slipped my hand into his and intertwined our fingers. His grip tightened instinctively, his thumb grazing the back of my hand in slow, lazy circles.

The conversation around us halted for a second. Some of the men exchanged glances, amused by my sudden appearance. But I didn't care. My focus was solely on Raj.

His eyes darkened, scanning my face before trailing lower. "Jaan," he murmured, his voice low, rough, almost possessive. "What are you up to?"

I tilted my head, feigning innocence. "Nothing," I whispered back, stepping closer, my body pressing lightly against his arm.

His jaw tightened, and I didn't miss the way his fingers flexed against my skin. "Liar."

I bit my lip, pretending not to notice the way his pupils dilated. Slowly, deliberately, I ran my free hand over his chest, smoothing out the nonexistent wrinkles on his suit. "You looked tense,"I said softly. "I thought I'd come and help you relax."

His smirk was slow, dangerous. "Is that so?"

I nodded, dragging my fingers down his arm before resting them on his wrist. "Hmm."

From the corner of my eye, I saw the woman her smile faltering, her confidence shrinking. She shifted uncomfortably, taking a sip from her drink as she glanced away, clearly realizing she had no chance.

Good.

Raj exhaled sharply, his free hand moving to my waist, pulling me just a fraction closer."You do know I'm in the middle of a discussion, right?"

I lifted my gaze, meeting his intense stare head-on. "And?"

He chuckled darkly, leaning in so that only I could hear. "And, Jaan, if you keep testing me like this, I might just forget we're surrounded by people."

A shiver ran down my spine, but I held my ground. "Maybe that's exactly what I want."

His grip tightened, his body tensing, and for a brief second, I thought he might actually follow through on his unspoken threat.

But then, one of the men cleared his throat.

"Mr Rajawat, my wife and I were just saying how lucky you are." The older businessman chuckled, looking between us. "It's rare to see a couple so in sync."

Raj didn't respond immediately. Instead, his eyes remained locked on mine as he murmured, "Lucky doesn't even begin to cover it."

Heat flooded my cheeks, but I refused to let it show. Instead, I smiled, playing along. "And I suppose I'm lucky too."

Raj smirked, brushing a loose strand of hair away from my face. "You suppose?"

Before I could respond, he leaned in his lips ghosting over my ear as he whispered, "We'll talk about that later, Mrs. Rajawat. When you're not so distracted by unnecessary things."

I narrowed my eyes playfully. "Unnecessary things?"

He chuckled, dropping his hand from my waist but still keeping me close. "Yes, unnecessary things. Like trying to make a point to someone who doesn't matter."

I gasped softly, realizing he had caught onto my little game from the start.

Of course, he had.

This was Rajveer Singh Rajawat. Nothing ever escaped his notice.

And now, judging by the victorious smirk on his lips, he was enjoying watching me squirm.

Well, two could play at this game.

Smirking, I ran my fingers along the lapel of his suit. "I have no idea what you're talking about, Mr. Rajawat."

His eyes darkened."Oh? You don't?"

"Nope."I flashed him an innocent smile before lifting myself onto my toes, pressing a soft kiss against his jawline right in front of everyone.

A sharp intake of breath. His muscles tensed. His fingers curled into a fist.

And just like that, the tables had turned.

"Now,"I whispered against his skin. "Who's the one getting distracted?"

The deep growl that rumbled from his chest sent a thrill down my spine.

With a victorious smirk, I took a step back, my fingers slipping away from Raj's suit as I turned on my heels. I didn't need to look back to know he was watching me I could feel the weight of his intense gaze burning into my back.

I deliberately swayed my hips just a little more as I walked away, my saree hugging my curves perfectly. The teasing was intentional, and knowing Raj, it was bound to get a reaction.

Just before reaching Tanvi and Ishika, I glanced over my shoulder, my eyes locking with his once more. His expression was unreadable, but the tight clench of his jaw and the way his fingers curled around his glass told me everything I needed to know.

He was affected.

And he was definitely not pleased with my little game.

"Good. Let him stew in it."

Suppressing a giggle, I turned back and approached my friends, who had been watching the entire exchange with amused expressions.

Tanvi crossed her arms over her chest, raising an eyebrow. "That was... interesting."

Ishika grinned, nudging me with her elbow. "Forget interesting, that was downright bold. Did you see his face? I swear, if there weren't so many people here, he would have dragged you back to your room already."

I shrugged, pretending to be nonchalant, though my heart was still racing from the intensity of Raj's reaction. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Tanvi snorted. "Oh please. We know you too well, Saanvi. You were teasing him on purpose."

I lifted my glass of juice from the tray of a passing waiter and took a small sip. "So what if I was?"

Ishika giggled. "You really love pushing his buttons, don't you?"

I sighed dramatically. "Well, someone has to keep him on his toes."

Both of them laughed, and for a moment, I let myself enjoy the lightheartedness of the conversation. But even as I stood there, chatting with my friends, a strange, almost electric sensation lingered in the air one that told me Raj's eyes were still on me.

Curious, I slowly turned my head, and sure enough, he was still watching me from across the room. His expression was unreadable, but the slight tilt of his head, the way his fingers tapped against his glass, told me he was already planning something.

And something I was probably not prepared for.

A shiver ran down my spine, but I met his gaze head-on, refusing to back down.

"If this was a game, then I had just made my move."

Now, it was his turn.

_____🌷

Author pov

The lively reception hall buzzed with chatter, laughter, and the soft melody of the song playing in the background. Saanvi stood with Ishika, scrolling through pictures on her phone, while Tanvi sipped her drink beside them.

"Look at the stage," Tanvi suddenly said, nudging Saanvi's arm.

Curious, Saanvi lifted her gaze, only to feel her breath hitch. There he was.

Rajveer.

Standing tall on the grand stage, his black suit hugging his broad frame perfectly, his presence commanding the attention of the entire hall. A mike rested in his hand, and that signature smirk of his played on his lips.

"So, welcome, ladies and gentlemen,"Rajveer's deep, velvety voice echoed through the speakers, instantly capturing everyone's attention. "As you all know, today is my grand reception party."

A round of applause erupted, but Saanvi barely heard it.

Because the next words he spoke were solely meant for her.

"And I want to introduce you to someone special," Rajveer continued, his dark eyes locking onto Saanvi's from across the room.

The way he was looking at herintense, possessive, playful sent shivers down her spine.

Saanvi swallowed, her fingers tightening around her phone .

Rajveer tilted his head slightly, his smirk widening as he spoke into the mic again. "Aap upar ayengi, Mrs. Rajawat" His voice dropped a little lower, teasing, challenging. "Ya hum neeche aaye aapko lene?"

Gasps and giggles echoed in the hall as all eyes turned to her. Her heart slammed against her ribs.

Heat rushed to her face so fast that she was sure she was as red as a tomato.

Ishika clamped a hand over her mouth, barely holding back her laughter. Tanvi smirked, leaning in to whisper, "Well, someone's feeling bold tonight."

Saanvi clenched her jaw, shooting both of them a glare.

"That man,That infuriating, shameless man"

How could he do this? In front of everyone?

She was already feeling warm under his gaze, but now, with an entire hall of guests watching, her embarrassment reached a whole new level.

Rajveer, of course, looked completely unfazed if anything, he seemed to be enjoying her flustered state.

And then, as if to make things worse, he winked.

Right at her.

A collective "Oooooh" came from the crowd, some guests chuckling while others whispered excitedly.

Saanvi's hands curled into fists at her sides. She lifted her chin, schooling her expression into one of forced composure.

If he thought she would get up there all shy and timid, he had another thing coming.

With slow, deliberate steps, she made her way towards the stage. Her saree swayed elegantly with each step, her heels clicking against the floor. The closer she got, the more Rajveer's smirk deepened.

The moment she reached the edge of the stage, Rajveer extended his hand towards her.

She took his hands in her

And then she was beside him, he leaned in slightly, his voice low and teasing, meant just for her. "Sharma toh rahi ho, par attitude bhi dikhana zaroori hai?"

Saanvi shot him a glare, her face still burning. "Oh really Mr Rajawat ?"

Rajveer chuckled, clearly enjoying this far too much. " yes jaan ".

She turned her face away, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing how much he was affecting her.

But Rajveer wasn't done.

He took the mic again, his voice playful yet filled with warmth. "Everyone, meet my beautiful wife, Mrs. Saanvi Rajveer Singh Rajawat."

Another round of applause erupted, and this time, Saanvi couldn't help but feel a slight flutter in her chest.

No matter how much he teased, no matter how embarrassed he made her feel there was no denying the love in his eyes. And that, more than anything else, made her blush even harder.

Rajveer still held the mike , but this time, his smirk softened into something else something deeper. His eyes, dark and unreadable, held a flicker of emotion as he turned toward Saanvi.

She could feel the weight of his gaze, the intensity of it pressing into her skin. The playful teasing from moments ago was gone. What replaced it was something far more serious, far more raw.

"I never believed in love."

The words left his lips so quietly, yet they carried through the hall, making everyone still.

Saanvi blinked, her heartbeat stuttering.

Rajveer took a slow breath before continuing. "I never believed in love because I was never taught to. In my world, love was just a word an illusion people created to make themselves feel less lonely. But then... I saw you jaan".

Saanvi's breath hitched.

Rajveer's fingers tightened slightly around the mike, as if grounding himself. "The first time I saw you, I felt something I couldn't explain. Something I refused to accept. I told myself it was nothing. Just a moment. Just a passing attraction."

A bitter chuckle escaped him. "But no matter how much I denied it, no matter how much I tried to bury it... you were always there. In my mind. In my thoughts. In every damn breath I took."

Saanvi swallowed, her fingers trembling slightly at her sides.

His voice dropped lower, rougher. "And it scared the hell out of me."

A deep silence filled the room. It was as if the entire world had faded, leaving only the two of them standing there, facing each other.

Rajveer exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. "You made me feel things I never wanted to feel. You made me weak, Sweetheart. And I hated it".

His confession sent a sharp pang through her chest.

He hated it?

As if sensing her thoughts, Rajveer shook his head slightly, his expression turning almost... vulnerable. "I hated it because I didn't understand it. Because I was a man who never let his heart rule his mind. But then you... you ruined me, Jaan."

Her breath caught.

"You ruined me in the most beautiful way possible."

The vulnerability in his voice, the raw honesty it was something she had never seen before. Rajveer was always strong, always in control. But right now, standing in front of her, he was laying his soul bare.

"And today, in front of everyone, I want to say it out loud."He took a step closer, his voice firm, steady. "I love you, Jaan."

A gasp escaped her lips.

"I love you more than I ever thought I was capable of loving anyone. And I don't know if I deserve you. But I do know one thing."

His fingers reached for hers, his grip warm, solid. "I will spend the rest of my life proving to you that you are the best thing that has ever happened to me."

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

Her entire body felt light, yet heavy with emotions she couldn't even put into words.

The hall erupted into cheers, but Saanvi barely heard them.

All she could see was him.

Her husband.

Her tormentor.

Her solace.

And the man who had just given her his heart.

The hall buzzed with excitement, but for Rajveer and Saanvi, the world had faded into nothingness. The confession hung in the air between them, thick with emotion, heavy with longing. Rajveer's dark eyes remained locked on hers, searching, waiting.

He let the silence stretch for a few moments before a teasing smirk curved his lips.

He lifted the mike again, his voice dropping to a low, husky timbre that sent a shiver down her spine. "Are you going to say something, Jaan?

Or, now I will take your silence as your permission for kiss ?"

A

gasp rippled through the audience at his bold words, but Saanvi barely noticed. Her heart pounded wildly in her chest, her fingers curling into the pleats of her saree as she struggled to find her voice.

But she didn't need to struggle.

Because the moment her lips parted, the words came effortlessly. Words that had been buried deep within her heart for so long.

"I love you too, Raj."

The second the words left her mouth, a shift passed through Rajveer. His smirk vanished, replaced by something far more intense, far more consuming. His eyes darkened, his grip on her fingers tightening just slightly.

And then he moved.

Before she could react, before she could take another breath, his hands were on her waist, pulling her forward with a possessive urgency. His other hand tilted her chin up, and then He kissed her.

Not gently.

Not cautiously.

He kissed her like he was claiming her, like he was sealing a promise with the press of his lips. It was deep, fierce, and filled with an unspoken desperation, as if he had been starving for this moment. As if he could finally taste the words she had just spoken.

Saanvi's hands flew to his chest, clutching the fabric of his shirt as warmth spread through her body. The cheers and whistles from the crowd faded into nothingness. The world blurred, leaving only the two of them in this intoxicating moment.

Rajveer angled his head, deepening the kiss, as if to imprint himself on her very soul. She wasn't just his wife, his partner she was his.

His forever.

His always.

The grand curtains of the stage began to close, shielding them from the eyes of the guests. But even as the world was shut out, Rajveer didn't pull away. He kissed her like he never wanted to stop, like the universe itself had aligned for this one, perfect moment.

And for Saanvi, nothing else mattered.

Because in his arms, under the dim glow of the stage lights, she had finally found her forever.

The grand reception was slowly coming to an end. The guests were either engaged in conversations, enjoying the last few sips of their drinks, or preparing to leave. The soft music in the background blended with the chatter, creating an ambiance of warmth and celebration.

Rajveer, ever the businessman, excused himself from Saanvi's side and made his way toward a group of his business partners. They greeted him with respect, discussing deals, upcoming projects, and future collaborations. His posture remained authoritative, his presence commanding, but every few minutes, his eyes would flicker toward Saanvi, as if ensuring she was still within sight.

Meanwhile, Saanvi had found herself surrounded by her friends Tanvi, Ishika, and a few others who had dragged her to the bar for a celebratory drink.

"Come on, Sanu ! One more drink won't hurt," Ishika teased, nudging her playfully.

Saanvi chuckled, shaking her head but eventually giving in. "Fine, but this is the last one."

She reached for her glass, the cold rim pressing against her lips as she was about to take another sip-

But before she could, someone collided into her.

The force of the impact sent a chill down her spine as a splash of liquid hit her arm. Saanvi gasped, jerking back slightly, lowering her glass just in time to prevent it from spilling. Her brows furrowed as she turned to see who had bumped into her.

A woman stood before her, dressed in an elegant black gown, her lips were painted a striking shade of red. She seemed familiar-too familiar but Saanvi couldn't quite place where she had seen her before.

The woman, however, didn't look the least bit apologetic. Instead, there was something in her eyes something sharp, calculating.

"Oh, I'm so sorry," the woman said, though her tone lacked any real sincerity. "I didn't see you there."

Saanvi forced a polite smile, brushing the droplets of spilled drink off her skin. "It's alright. Just be careful next time."

and then the women left.

She wasn't sure why, but there was an odd feeling creeping over her, as if something was off, but she couldn't quite place it.

Shaking off the unease, she turned back to her friends. "I need to use the washroom. I'll be back soon."

Tanvi and Ishika, caught up in their conversation, barely looked up. "Alright, don't take too long," Ishika said.

Saanvi nodded and walked away, weaving through the sea of elegantly dressed guests, her heels clicking against the marble floor. The grand chandeliers above cast golden light across the hall, but as she stepped away from the main area, the lively chatter faded, replaced by an eerie silence.

As she reached the dimly lit corridor leading to the washroom, her steps faltered.

Her breath hitched.

A shadow.

A tall, looming figure stood at the far end of the hallway, just beyond the reach of the flickering light. The sight sent a chill crawling down her spine.

No. It couldn't be.

Her heart pounded wildly as she blinked, trying to focus. But by the time she did, the figure was gone.

Her fingers curled into fists. Maybe she was imagining things. Maybe it was just the dim lighting playing tricks on her mind.

With a deep breath, she shook off the strange feeling and entered the washroom.

The second she stepped inside, an icy wave of dread slammed into her.

The room was empty, yet it felt suffocating, as if the walls were closing in. The dim lights flickered overhead, casting shadows across the glossy tiles.

And then Her gaze lifted to the mirror ,Her entire body froze.

Scrawled across the mirror in what looked like blood were three words that made her stomach drop.

"Miss me, butterfly?"

Her breath caught in her throat.

A sharp, suffocating fear wrapped around her chest like a vice.

No.

No, no, no.

This wasn't possible.

Her hands trembled, her skin turning cold. The words were fresh, the crimson still wet and dripping down the glass. The metallic scent hit her nose, confirming her worst fear.

This was real.

Panic surged through her veins. She turned, her instincts screaming at her to run. To get out. To scream for Rajveer.

But before she could even part her lips-

A hand clamped over her mouth.

Strong.

Unyielding.

Her muffled scream barely made a sound as a sharp sting pierced her arm.

A needle.

The sensation spread quickly an icy numbness crawling through her veins, her body weakening. Her vision blurred, the edges of her world spinning into a haze.

Her knees buckled. The strength in her limbs faded.

The last thing she felt was the firm grip of the arms holding her up.

And the last thing she saw before the darkness swallowed her whole Was the reflection in the mirror.

The shadow was real.

And now, she was in its grasp.

____🌷

At Outside of the party

Tanvi tapped her fingers on the table impatiently, her brows knitting together as she glanced toward the hallway where Saanvi had disappeared a while ago.

"Ishu, Saanvi hasn't come back yet,"Tanvi muttered, her tone laced with concern.

Ishika, who had been scrolling through her phone, hummed absentmindedly. "Hmm... maybe she got caught up fixing her makeup."

Tanvi frowned. "It's been too long, though. Something doesn't feel right."

Ishika finally looked up, noticing the worry etched across Tanvi's face. Saanvi wasn't the type to just disappear without a word.

"Let's go check," Tanvi decided, standing up abruptly.

Ishika followed her without protest, her unease growing with each step as they navigated through the party. The crowd was still engaged in lively conversations, laughter filling the air, completely unaware of the sudden tension creeping into Tanvi and Ishika's hearts.

When they reached the washroom hallway, a strange chill settled over them. The corridor was empty, silent too silent.

Tanvi reached for the door and pushed it open.

And then-

Her breath hitched.

"Oh my God," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Ishika stepped in beside her and immediately gasped, her eyes widening in horror. The washroom was empty.

No sign of Saanvi.

But the mirror-

The mirror was smeared with dark red words.

"Miss me, butterfly?"

The letters, written in what looked disturbingly like blood, were dripping down the glass.

A sickening fear coiled in Tanvi's stomach.

Ishika took an involuntary step back, her fingers trembling. "Tanvi... this... this is not some prank."

"I know who it is,"Tanvi murmured, her voice deadly serious.

Ishika turned to her sharply. "Who?"

Tanvi didn't answer right away. Instead, she swallowed hard and grabbed Ishika's wrist. "We don't have time for this. We need to tell Rajveer jiju. Now."

Without wasting another second, they sprinted out of the washroom, their heels clicking rapidly against the floor.

They weaved through the guests, ignoring the questioning stares thrown their way as they rushed toward the other side of the hall, where Rajveer was seated with his business partners.

Rajveer sat at the head of the table, his posture relaxed but authoritative as he discussed an upcoming deal. The moment Tanvi and Ishika reached him, he turned slightly, his sharp eyes catching their urgency before they even spoke.

"What happened?"Rajveer asked, his voice calm yet edged with an underlying demand.

Tanvi tried to catch her breath. "Saanvi .....she's missing,"she blurted out.

His expression darkened in an instant. "What?"

Ishika quickly added, "We went to check the washroom. She wasn't there. But on the mirror... someone left a message. Written in blood."

The entire table went silent.

Rajveer's grip on the glass in his hand tightened so forcefully that it cracked under his fingers, a single shard piercing his skin. But he didn't even flinch.

His jaw clenched, his breathing slow and controlled, but the storm in his eyes was impossible to miss.

"What was written on the mirror?"he asked, his voice dangerously low.

Tanvi hesitated for a second before answering. "Miss me, butterfly."

A deadly silence followed.

And then-

The chair scraped against the floor as Rajveer stood up abruptly, his entire aura shifting into something menacing. His muscles tensed, his fists curling so tight his knuckles turned white.

The name. The message.

And if that man had dared to touch her-

"Abhimaan,"Rajveer barked, his voice sharp as a blade.

His most trusted man appeared at his side instantly. "Find her. Now in every room every corner of mansion."

Abhimaan gave a firm nod before disappearing into the crowd, gathering their men in an instant.

Rajveer turned back to Tanvi and Ishika, his dark eyes burning with an unspoken promise of destruction.

"Tell me everything," he ordered. "From the beginning."

Tanvi's gaze flickered towards Rajveer, who was standing before her like a storm ready to unleash its wrath. His jaw was locked, his fingers twitching with the need to take immediate action, but she knew there was only so much she could tell him. Some things... were meant for Saanvi to reveal.

"Tell me everything," Rajveer demanded again, his voice eerily calm, but his eyes his eyes held an inferno.

Tanvi swallowed, steadying herself before shaking her head."No, Rajveer jiju. Saanvi is the one who should tell you about her past. It's not my place."

A muscle ticked in Rajveer's jaw. He hated waiting. Hated secrets. And right now, it felt like the ground beneath him was slipping away, dragging Saanvi along with it.

His phone buzzed in his grip, and he swiftly answered.

"Abhimaan?"

"Boss, the security is in position. No one's getting out. Every entrance and exit is being monitored. I've got our men sweeping the mansion."

Rajveer exhaled sharply, his fingers running through his hair before he issued his next order. "Don't close the doors yet. Lock down the entire property and make sure no one leaves until I say so. Is that clear?"

"Crystal, boss."

The call ended, but Rajveer was already turning towards Aditya and Karan, his mind working in rapid calculations.

"Karan, track her," he instructed.

Karan frowned slightly. "How do we track her? We don't have-"

Rajveer cut him off. "Track her nuptial chain."

That made both Karan and Aditya pause.

"Her mangalsutra?" Aditya asked, confused.

Rajveer nodded sharply. "It has a tracker embedded in it. I had it placed there the day we got married."

Karan's eyes widened slightly. "Damn. You don't trust easily, do you?"

Rajveer didn't answer. His trust wasn't the point right now. His wife his jaan was missing. That was the only thing that mattered.

Karan immediately pulled out his laptop from his bag, setting it up on a nearby table as his fingers moved rapidly across the keyboard. Aditya stood beside him, tension rolling off him as they waited for the location to pop up.

Meanwhile, Rajveer stood still, his fists clenching and unclenching at his sides. Every second that passed was agony. His mind was conjuring up every possible scenario, and none of them were good.

Who had taken her?

And why did they call her 'butterfly'?

The word echoed in his head, gnawing at his patience. He had enemies many. But this wasn't just about him. This was about Saanvi's past. A past she never spoke of. A past he should have forced her to tell him sooner.

But now wasn't the time for regrets. Now was the time for war.

Suddenly, Karan's voice cut through the tension. "Got it! I have a location."

Rajveer immediately moved closer, his eyes narrowing at the screen.

The blinking red dot showed her position. It wasn't too far from the mansion somewhere at the back, near the abandoned servant quarters.

Rajveer's heart pounded.

"Abhimaan!" he barked into his phone the moment he dialed again. "She's at the back of the property, near the old quarters. Get there now!"

Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heels, already moving.

But Tanvi grabbed his arm. "Raj jiju, wait! You need to be careful. If this is who I think it is... he won't let her go that easily."

Rajveer looked at her, his gaze ice cold. "Then I'll make him wish he never took her in the first place."

And with that, he stormed out, his fury trailing behind him like a raging fire, ready to burn down anything or anyone in his path.

____🌷

Unknown place

A sharp, pulsating pain throbbed in Saanvi's head as she slowly regained consciousness. The air around her was thick, suffocating, and carried the metallic scent of something she didn't want to name. Her body felt heavy, her limbs weak, and the effects of the drug still clung to her like a cruel embrace, making every movement sluggish.

The cold marble beneath her sent chills down her spine, but it wasn't just the temperature that made her shiver it was the eerie silence, the unsettling feeling of being watched.

Her vision was blurry at first, the dim lighting casting sinister shadows across the room. She forced herself to blink, to focus, and when she finally took in her surroundings, her breath hitched.

The walls... they were covered in her photographs.

Hundreds of them.

Some were pictures from her childhood, others from her college days, and then there were ones from recent times images of her taken without her knowledge. Pictures of her at home, at the office, at the mansion... with Rajveer.

But what sent an icy chill down her spine were the ones smeared with blood .

Someone had taken the time to deface certain images, slashing through Rajveer's face, cutting across the ones where she was happy, and in the middle of it all, written in jagged, crimson letters was

"Mine. Only Mine."

Her stomach twisted.

A familiar, deep chuckle echoed in the room, making her flinch.

She turned her head, her heart slamming against her ribcage as she finally saw him

Samrat Rana.

He sat leisurely on a chair, a wicked smirk playing on his lips, his fingers lazily twirling a knife as if it were a mere toy. His dark, predatory eyes roamed over her in a way that made bile rise in her throat.

"Finally awake, my butterfly?"His voice was smooth, almost mocking.

Saanvi's fingers curled into fists, her nails digging into her palms as she tried to push away the overwhelming fear clawing at her chest. She refused to show weakness not in front of him.

She glared at him, her voice hoarse but filled with venom. "Don't call me that."

Samrat tsked, shaking his head. "But that's what you are, aren't you? My little butterfly, fluttering around, thinking you could escape me."

Saanvi swallowed the lump in her throat. "I was never yours Bastard."

His expression darkened instantly. The playful smirk vanished, replaced by something much more sinister. He leaned forward, pressing the tip of the knife against his palm, watching as a thin line of blood appeared.

"Is that what you tell yourself?" he mused. "That you were never mine? That I didn't own you first?"

Saanvi clenched her jaw, refusing to let him see the way his words sent a shudder down her spine.

Samrat exhaled heavily, shaking his head as if he were disappointed. "You know, I was going to be generous. I was going to give you another chance."

He stood up, his towering form casting a shadow over her. "But you... you just had to run to Rajveer, didn't you?"

At the mention of his name, Saanvi felt something stir inside her something stronger than fear.

Courage.

"You were never a man I could run to," she spat. "You were just a fucking monster I had to run from."

Samrat's jaw twitched, and before she could react, he crouched in front of her, grabbing her chin with an iron grip. His fingers dug into her skin, forcing her to look into his cold, merciless eyes.

"And yet," he whispered, his breath fanning against her face, "here you are. In my grasp. Right where you belong."

Saanvi refused to flinch. "My Rajveer will find me."

Samrat chuckled darkly, tightening his grip for a brief moment before letting go, pushing her back roughly.

"Oh, I want him to come, butterfly," he drawled, stepping back as he twirled the knife again. "In fact, I'm counting on it."

Saanvi's blood ran cold.

This wasn't just about her.

This was a trap.

For Rajveer.

And the realization made her blood freeze in terror.

Saanvi's pulse pounded violently in her ears as Samrat's words sank in. "I'm counting on it."

Her body tensed as she forced herself to think. She needed to stay calm, needed to find a way out before Rajveer walked straight into whatever nightmare Samrat had planned.

Samrat, on the other hand, seemed completely at ease, toying with the knife in his hands, as if her presence here was nothing more than a game to him. His eyes gleamed with amusement, but beneath that, there was something darker something very dangerous.

"You know, butterfly,"he mused, tilting his head, "I was almost offended when I found out you got married. And to Rajveer Singh Rajawat, of all people."

She stayed silent, knowing any reaction would only fuel his twisted satisfaction.

He let out a chuckle, his fingers tightening around the knife's hilt. "Do you know what I hate most about him?" His voice dropped, eyes burning with something close to obsession. "He has everything I should have had. The power, the respect, the wealth... and now, even you."

Saanvi glared at him. "I was never yours, Samrat."

His jaw clenched, and in a flash, the knife was against her throat. The sharp blade kissed her skin, sending an icy chill down her spine.

"But you could have been," he whispered, his grip tightening. "I gave you a chance. I would have made you my queen." His breath hitched, voice trembling slightly as he stared at her with something twisted and unhinged. "But you ran from me. You chose him."

Saanvi's fists clenched at her sides, her heart hammering in her chest. She refused to give him the reaction he wanted.

"You never gave me a choice,"she whispered coldly. "You wanted to sell me like a commodity. You never saw me as a person, only as a means to your sick ambitions."

Samrat's grip faltered for a brief second, but then his lips curled into a slow, sinister smirk. He dragged the blade down her throat, stopping just above her collarbone, before pulling away.

"And yet," he murmured, stepping back, "here you are. All mine again."

Saanvi swallowed her fear, her mind racing.

Her body trembled as the sharp edge of the knife grazed her skin, a thin line of blood trailing down her delicate neck. Her breath hitched, her pulse racing in fear, but her eyes burned with defiance.

"It hurts, doesn't it, Butterfly?" Samrat murmured, his voice laced with dark amusement as he leaned closer. His hot breath fanned over her skin, making her stomach twist in disgust.

A cruel smirk played on his lips as he tilted his head. "Let me heal you."

Before she could react, his lips crashed onto her neck, his tongue tracing the wound he had just inflicted.

Revulsion.

Disgust.

Rage.

Every fiber of her being screamed in protest, but her body was pinned beneath his merciless grip.

She writhed, fought, screame , but his grip only tightened.

"NO!" she cried out, her voice breaking.

Samrat's fingers dug into her wrists as he moved upward, his mouth trailing along her jaw before capturing her lips in a bruising, punishing kiss.

It was suffocating.

Violating.

Tears streamed down her face as she thrashed beneath him, her entire body rejecting his unwanted touch. Her heart pounded with terror, but she summoned every ounce of her strength and shoved him with all her might.

Samrat staggered back slightly, caught off guard. That single moment was all she needed.

"You BASTARD!" she screamed, her voice hoarse with fury and pain. "Leave me! This body is NOT yours! It belongs to HIM! Only HIM! Not a monster like you!"

Her words hit him like a whip.

His playful smirk vanished.

His expression darkened.

The air in the room turned thick with an unsettling silence.

And then, in the blink of an eye, he snapped.

Samrat's hand shot out, gripping her chin brutally, forcing her head back. His nails dug into her soft skin as his eyes burned with raw fury.

"HIM?" he growled, his voice venomous.

His other hand gripped the knife, pressing it against her throat with a sinister smile. The blade was cold, biting into her skin as he dragged it slowly, deliberately.

Thin, red scratches bloomed along her delicate neck, and she gasped as the sharp sting set in.

"You dare say his name in front of me?" he seethed, his grip tightening. "You were supposed to be MINE, Butterfly. But no" his voice turned into a dangerous whisper, "you ran into his arms instead."

Saanvi's body trembled, but she refused to cower. She would rather die than let him break her.

Her lips quivered, but she spat out with unwavering hatred, "I would rather burn in hell than be yours."

Something snapped in Samrat's gaze.His fingers curled around her throat.

Her vision blurred for a second as the pressure increased, making it harder to breathe. Her mind screamed for air, for relief but the terror in her heart was far greater than the pain.

Samrat leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear. "Let's see, Butterfly," he whispered darkly, "if he really comes to save you... or if he lets you rot in my arms."

Her heart clenched at the mention of him ,Raj

He was coming for her. He had to.

But would he make it in time?

And then a bone-chilling scream tore through the dimly lit room as Saanvi's head collided violently with the cold, hard wall.

A sickening thud echoed as pain exploded through her skull, dizziness taking over her senses. Warm blood trickled down her forehead, blurring her vision, but she refused to give in.

Her body trembled, but before she could recover, a cruel hand gripped her throat, pinning her against the wall.

Her breath hitched.

Samrat's predatory gaze darkened with something sinister hunger, obsession, insanity.

A wicked smirk curled his lips as he leaned in, his fingers digging into her delicate skin. Without warning, he crashed his mouth onto hers, claiming her with a violent force that made her stomach churn in pure disgust.

"NO please "She thrashed, her hands pushing at his chest, but his strength was monstrous.

His lips trailed down, bruising her skin as he pressed hungrily against her cleavage. A whimper of pain and fury escaped her lips, her nails clawing at his face. But he only laughed a dark, cruel laugh that sent a shiver of terror down her spine.

"Try all you want, but I will NEVER be yours, Samrat Rana,"she spat through gritted teeth, her voice trembling but filled with defiance.

Samrat's laughter abruptly stopped.His grip on her tightened.

His eyes turned red .

A terrifying silence filled the room before he suddenly reached for something behind him. The glint of a sharp knife reflected in the dim light.

Saanvi's breath caught in her throat. Her heart pounded violently against her ribs.

She tried to move to escape but it was too late.

SLASH.

The first stab pierced her stomach. A sharp, burning agony tore through her body.

A strangled gasp left her lips, her hands instinctively clutching the wound, but Samrat didn't stop.

SLASH.

The second stab.

Deeper.

Deadlier.

Her knees buckled, a choked cry escaping as her vision blurred from the excruciating pain.

SLASH.

The third stab made her entire body jolt in agony. Blood poured down her abdomen, staining her once-pristine red saree, the fabric torn and clinging to her shivering form.

Samrat grinned, his face twisted with madness.

"You are MINE. MINE, Butterfly!" he whispered like a deranged lover. "If you can't be mine ... then you can't be his either."

Saanvi's breaths came out in painful, shallow gasps.

Her body trembled, her strength slipping away, but her soul her spirit refused to break.

With one last ounce of defiance, she lifted her gaze, her bloodied lips parting as she whispered, "Raj...veer..."

Samrat scoffed at the name, his face twisting in rage. But then, just as quickly, he smirked.

Stepping back, he took a long final glance at her broken, bleeding form.

And then...

He pulled out a lighter.

Click.

The tiny flame flickered in the dim room.

"Goodbye, Butterfly," Samrat murmured, his voice eerily calm.

And then he threw the flame onto the floor

WHOOSH

The fire spread rapidly, engulfing the room in a terrifying inferno. Smoke filled the air, swallowing every last ounce of oxygen.

Saanvi lay there, her body growing weaker, her vision fading as the flames crawled closer.

But in her heart, in her soul she still fought.

"Rajveer... please... come for me."

______🌷

Rajveer's POV

The moment I stepped inside the burning room, a wave of pure horror and rage surged through my veins. Flames roared around me, their heat licking at my skin, but I didn't care. My eyes landed on her my jaan.

She lay on the cold floor, barely breathing, her body covered in blood.

This can't be happening.*

"ABHIMAAN" I roared into my phone. "CLEAR IT! SPLASH THE WATER! NOW!"

I didn't wait for an answer. My legs moved on their own, running towards her. Smoke stung my eyes, but nothing nothing could stop me from reaching her.

I fell to my knees, my hands shaking as I carefully scooped her up into my arms. Her body was limp, her saree torn, blood staining every inch of her once-beautiful attire.

My heartbeat pounded in my ears.My mind screamed.

Whoever did this... whoever dared to lay a hand on her... I swear, I will kill them in the most brutal way possible.

I took a deep breath, forcing down the rage threatening to consume me. Right now, she needed me. I had to get her out of here.

My gaze fell on her swollen lips, the bruises on her delicate skin, the faint scratches along her neck.

My blood boiled.

But then her breathing faltered.

"Jaan... please wake up."My voice shook as I whispered against her hair. "I'm here, baby. Open your eyes."

For a moment, she hummed softly,as if trying to respond.

Hope flickered in my chest.

But then her body went still. Her head fell against my chest, her eyes fluttering shut.

"Jaan?" My heart clenched. "No. NO! OPEN YOUR EYES, SAANVI!".

But she didn't move.

I screamed.

"JAAAAAN!"

My voice broke with pain, with fear, with a rage so deep it could burn the world down.

The fire around me was nothing compared to the inferno inside me.

I held her closer, pressing my lips against her forehead. "You can't leave me, Saanvi. You won't. Not now. Not ever."

I turned, my grip on her tightening as I rushed out of the room, my mind set on only one thing

Saving her.

_____🌷🙂