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Longest chapter till now....
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Vedika's POV

My heart raced with the sudden shocking proposition by him.

Suppressing the urge to scoff, I steadied my voice, meeting his intense gaze with unwavering determination.

“Marry you, like seriously? Huh???“ I repeated his words.

"And what would be in it for me? Your sudden kindness isn't fooling anyone, Mr. Parker." I paused, weighing my options before continuing.

"But if you truly have a solution for my uncle's predicament, I'm willing to hear you out. Just know, I won't be making any hasty decisions, especially when it comes to matters as serious as marriage." With a firm nod, I awaited his response.

I hoped that my face wouldn't give away the whirlwind of emotions churning inside me.

I felt his gaze soften at my response.

"I understand your hesitation, Vedika. But I only have this offer in hand. I can give you the time to think and analyse. We can speak more about it once you make the decision. You can give me an answer by tomorrow." he said, his voice steady yet tinged with an air of mystery.

He paused for a second before continuing.

"And Believe me when I say that my intentions are genuine. As for, what's in it for you, consider it a mutually beneficial arrangement. You will get your uncle's freedom and well, I have my own set of reasons for this. And I guess, we can defer it for a later stage." He said while leaning forward slightly towards me making me lean backward towards my chair more.

I looked at him with a frown processing his words slowly. What could be his reason? Why is he not vocal about it?

“I don't need the time to think. I can give you my answer right now.“ I paused gazing at him who was anticipating my answer.

“And the answer is NO” I replied, waiting for him to respond. But when he didn't reply I continued.

“I agree, I am in an urgent need of a helping hand, but, I cannot sacrifice myself for your own benefits. I am not even aware of your intentions. You're not very clear. And for me, marriage is a sacred bond, not to be taken lightly.“ I clarified.

I tried to gauze his reactions but met with the emotionless gaze.

When he still didn't make my efforts to clarify, I stood up from my seat to leave this room which witnessed the heavy conversation.

“Wait!!!“ His voice stopped me. I turned towards him with a questioning gaze.

"I cannot state my reasons right now. At least not until we got married. As I cannot take a risk. But...I won't deny that there's more to this than meets the eye. There are complexities at play, secrets yet to be revealed. Marrying me isn't a decision to be taken lightly, I understand that. But trust me when I say that it could be the key to unlocking a brighter future for both of us." With a slight nod, he waited for the response, his demeanor a curious mix of sincerity and enigma.

I can say that he won't hear no for an answer. Yet how can I say yes to this ridiculous demand of his.

“At least another person who offered to help was very clear about his intentions, unlike someone who is getting me entangled in a web of lies” I muttered, frustrated with the lack of clarity.

“What?“ He asked, clearly heard my muttering.

“Nothing, Good bye, Mr. Parker” I said before turning to leave.

“I will be waiting for your affirmation” He replied, even after my rejection. He is still thinking of accepting his proposal.

As the day went off, nothing fruitful came out of the investigation. We tried to find some evidence but nothing works.

“It will be very difficult to get a bail. Most probably, the case will be gone to the fast track court. I regret it, but most probably, we won't be able to produce any solid evidence.“ Mr. Paul spoke over the phone.

“There should be some loopholes?“ I asked, in between massaging my head with my fingers.

“Unless we get the police to admit to their mishandling of evidence or find a witness willing to come forward, it's going to be an uphill battle," Mr. Paul replied with a sigh.

I nodded, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on me. "Thank you for your efforts, Mr. Paul. Please keep me updated."

Ending the call, I leaned back in my chair, feeling defeated. The thought of Pa languishing in jail while we struggled to find a way to help him gnaw at me.

I walked out of my room to check Ma. I found her sleeping on the couch in the living room. Traces of dried tears were visible over her face.

I cannot imagine myself in her situation. People who always lived their life with dignity and integrity, suddenly facing such hardships, it's unbearable.

As I watched her sleeping, a resolve formed within me. I couldn't give up, not when my only family needed me the most.

Returning to my room, I mulled over Mr. Parker's proposal once again. Despite my initial rejection, a part of me couldn't shake off the possibility that there might be some truth to his words.

His mysterious demeanor and cryptic reasons intrigued me, even if they also made me wary.

At least, I don't need to sell my body to that scumbag. Not that, I am thinking about that proposal. But am I ready for a lifetime commitment.

Taking a deep breath, I picked up my phone and dialed Mr. Parker's number. After a moment of hesitation, he answered.

"Mr. Parker, I've reconsidered your proposition," I said firmly, my voice betraying none of the uncertainty swirling within me.

"Let's meet tomorrow to discuss the details further." I said.

I could sense the surprise in his response, but he quickly regained his composure. "Of course, Vedika. I'll make the arrangements. Wait for my message."

Ending the call, I felt a mix of apprehension and determination.

Whatever lay ahead, I couldn't afford to let fear or doubt hold me back. For my family's sake, I had to explore every possible avenue, even if it meant stepping into the unknown with Mr. Devil.

Next Day

I reached the address mentioned in the text sent by Devil in the early morning.

It was a warm and cozy coffee cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the tension in the air.

I took a sip of my drink, gathering my thoughts before speaking.

"Mr. Parker, I've given your proposition some serious thought," I began with sternness despite the uncertainty swirling within me.

I don't know what changed in the last meeting, but i don't feel that much uncomfortable with him.

Maybe him being vocal changed our dynamics.

"I understand the gravity of the situation, and while I still have reservations, I'm willing to explore the possibilities further." I conveyed my thoughts.

Mr. Parker nodded, his expression unreadable as he listened intently. "I appreciate your openness, Vedhika. Rest assured, I have no intention of rushing you into anything you're not comfortable with." He reassured me.

I arched an eyebrow, a hint of skepticism in my tone.

"That's easy for you to say, considering the circumstances." I glared at him.

I feel like he is forcing me into all this, though I am here willingly.

I could feel the faint smile tugged at the corners of Mr. Parker's lips, but it soon faded making me think of it as my imagination.

"Fair point. But I assure you, my intentions are genuine. I believe this arrangement could benefit both of us in ways we haven't yet imagined." He declared.

"And what exactly do you stand to gain from all of this? You've been rather cryptic about your motives." I scoffed.

"There are...complications in my life that require a certain level of discretion," he admitted, choosing his words carefully.

"But I assure you, Vedika, I have no ulterior motives. My primary concern is your uncle's well-being. And i have already found the solution. You just need to agree with my offer. And your uncle will be out of jail by the end of the day itself." He gave me a very lucrative offer.

I narrowed my eyes with a flicker of doubt crossing my features.

“Forgive me if I find that hard to believe. You've been evasive from the start, Mr. Parker. It's difficult to trust someone who refuses to be transparent." I stated the fact.

"I understand your skepticism, Vedhika. But sometimes, in order to protect those we care about, we must keep certain truths hidden. I hope you can find it within yourself to trust me, at least for now."

I sighed, feeling the weight of the decision bearing down.

"I'll admit, Mr. Parker, you've piqued my curiosity. But trust is something that's earned, not given freely. Plus I have decided that I cannot tie myself in a loveless marriage for my whole life."

“How can you be sure that it will be a loveless marriage?” He asked making my heart skip a beat with his words and intense gaze.

I gulped a mouthful of saliva to calm myself.

“We...we both are entering into this for our own benefit. I...I don't see any future of us together.“ I said with some hesitation as his gaze started making me uncomfortable. And all comfort went out of the window at that moment.

“Why don't we try before reaching this conclusion. You're being judgemental.” He said.

I agree with him. But, I have my own reasons. I am doing this for my family. With this firm decision, I suggested the things I planned before coming here.

“Why don't we enter into a contractual marriage. We can easily part ways after 6 months or so, once you get your motive from all this” I suggested making him frown.

“Not happening” He denied immediately. I could sense the brim of anger in his voice.

“But why not? It will be a win-win situation for both of us. We are different from each other. Our worlds are apart. I don't find any fault in this arrangement. We can always part once either of us finds our own partner.“ I suggested.

I can see that he is taking time to analyse and I am hoping for a positive response.

Mr. Parker nodded in understanding, his expression solemn.

“But 6 months is too short for me. Let's keep it for 2 years” He said.

Now it was my turn to frown.

“It's too long for me" I said.

“18 months.“ He suggested.

“No” I denied.

“12 months. And I will not negotiate on this.“ He ultimately said.

“Okay” I agreed after some thought as 1 year is much better than 2 years.

“We will have a small ceremony in a week. Till then, you can enjoy your time with your family” He said making me question him.

“Why not just sign the papers to legalize our marriage. Why is the need for a ceremony?” I said with discomfort.

It is just a formality for us. So, why this much of a hassle.

“It is important for me. You can at least do this much, for the efforts I will do to release your uncle.” He taunted.

“Fine.“ I agreed.

“I don't want anyone to know about all these” I said as why to acknowledge, when we will part ways after a year.

“I agree on this.“ He said. I heaved a sigh, at least we agreed on one thing.

“I have one more condition.“ I said after some hesitation. As this would be a very odd request.

He nodded at me to continue...

“Umm, I will be continuing my job and... And I will be living with my family post marriage” I declared.

“Have you ever seen any women living with her family post marriage” He said with anger.

I wanted to argue but he didn't give me a chance.

“Plus it won't solve my purpose of this marriage. You need to stay with me during our relationship.“ He said.

“But, what will I say to my family? How will I stay somewhere else without disclosing our arrangement” I voiced out my concern.

“We will be moving to the capital after our marriage. As you must be aware our office is the only branch office, I need to operate from the Head Office from now onwards.“ He paused giving me time to process his words.

Yes, I am aware that our office “Parker Corporation” in this city is only a Branch office. The main office is in the capital.

“So, I will get your team transferred to the head office. So that we can live together in that city. I guess, it will not be much of a problem for you in such a situation.“ He informed.

I was surprised with that. I was not at all ready for this. Now, I will have to move to another location.

“But how will i get my family to allow me to move.” I asked.

“It is not my problem. You have to handle it.“ He said.

I got engaged in the thoughts of the near future. As his words sank in, my mind raced with conflicting thoughts.

Moving to the capital city would mean taking a U turn, leaving behind the familiarity and comfort of my family and home, which I was able to achieve after a lot of struggles within the last few months.

Yet, it also presented an opportunity to distance myself from the prying eyes and the gossip that may follow this unconventional arrangement. Also, moving to another city decreases the chance of unveiling my contract marriage to Pa & Ma.

But could I truly leave everything behind? My family, my job, my independence—all for the sake of a marriage of convenience? And what about Mr. Parker's insistence on secrecy?

The thought of deceiving my family weighed heavily on my conscience, yet the promise of Papa's freedom loomed large in my mind.

As I struggled to reconcile my desires with the reality of the situation, Mr. Parker's gaze bore into mine, waiting for my response.

With a deep breath, I knew that a decision had to be made, and soon. But whether it would be one driven by duty or desire remained uncertain.

Feeling the weight of his expectations and the gravity of the situation, I nodded slowly, signaling my tentative agreement.

"I... I'll need some time to think it over," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.

His expression softened slightly, his eyes betraying a hint of understanding.

"Of course, Vedhika. Take all the time you need. But remember, time is of the essence." He replied.

With a nod, I rose from my seat, the aroma of coffee no longer comforting but suffocating, as if it mirrored the suffocating pressure of the decision before me.

"Thank you, Mr. Parker. I'll be in touch soon," I said, mustering a weak smile before turning to leave. I could feel his gaze on my back.

As I stepped out into the crisp afternoon air, my mind whirled with conflicting emotions.

The path ahead seemed daunting and uncertain, but one thing was clear—I couldn't face it alone.

I needed to confide in someone, someone who could offer guidance and support in this tumultuous time.

With a resolve strengthening within me, I made my way to another direction instead of going home, determined to seek counsel from someone with whom I have established the connection in the last couple of weeks.

The one person i could think of whom I can confide in and who can guide me in all this, Aunt Rose.

Stepping into the orphanage, I could see aunt at her usual office room engaging herself in a pile of papers.

“Aunt” I called her.

Hearing my voice, she rose from her seat to embrace me.

“What brings you here today, dear” She asked me.

I hesitated before recounting events of the past few days, I found solace in the older woman's comforting presence.

Aunt Rose listened attentively, offering me words of wisdom and encouragement in between.

After I finished speaking, there was a moment of silence as Aunt Rose contemplated my words. Then, with a gentle smile, she reached out and took my hands on her own.

"My dear Vedika," Aunt Rose began softly, her voice filled with warmth, "life often presents us with unexpected challenges and opportunities. It's how we respond to them, that defines who we are."

I looked up, meeting Aunt Rose's compassionate gaze, my heart heavy with uncertainty.

"I know this decision weighs heavily on you, dear," Aunt Rose continued, "but sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking risks and stepping outside of our comfort zones. However, I would suggest you discuss this with your family. Don't make any decisions impulsively." She suggested.

“But Aunt, how can i discuss something like this to my family. I am aware that Ma will disapprove after realising that i am doing this for them” I stated my concerns.

Aunt Rose nodded in understanding but still insisted on it.

“What is the name of the guy?“ She enquired.

“Alvaro, Alvaro Parker. He is my boss where i am currently working. ” I revealed, realising that I am taking his name for the first name.

I felt her stiff and something flicker in her eyes for a second. But soon she composed herself.

“Hmm...So, do you work with Parker Corporations?“ She asked.

I nodded my head in a positive manner.

“Do you know them?“ I enquired.

“Who doesn't know them? They are one of the most influential families in the capital.“ She said.

I nodded, my mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions.
I am the person who always hesitates to embrace new things. But since my family's demise, I guess, life enjoys, throwing me new challenges every day.

Aunt Rose squeezed my hands reassuringly, her eyes sparkling with understanding.

"Remember, dear, love and marriage are not always one and the same," she said gently.

"Sometimes, the greatest acts of love are those borne out of selflessness and sacrifice." She elaborated.

I felt a flicker of clarity stirred within me as Aunt Rose's words sank in.

“However, if you decide to proceed with this, always remember that, it is not easy for an ordinary girl like us, to survive in these rich families. The secrets and internal disputes can destroy one without their knowledge." She further continued.

Her words made my heart feel the fear of the unknown. However, I relaxed my mind thinking that it is only a matter of one year. It's not like I am binding myself with him for a lifetime.

With a deep breath, I met Aunt Rose's gaze, my resolve strengthening with each passing moment.

"You're right, Aunt Rose," I said, my voice filled with determination.

"Sometimes, we must embrace the unknown and trust that everything will work out in the end." I concluded.

Aunt Rose smiled, her eyes shining with pride.

"I believe in you, Vedika," she said softly. "Whatever decision you make, know that I'll be here to support you  in every step of the way." She reassured me.

I felt more than what she was conveying me in words, I feel like, she is very sure that this marriage would be a success.

Though it won't happen as my marriage would come to an end after a year.
I didn't disclose to her that we are having a contractual marriage, as Mr Devil warned me not to disclose our terms to anyone.

“Aunt, I request you to not disclose this matter to anyone, not even to my family.” I requested her.

She frowned, eventually agreeing to my request.

Feeling a sense of peace wash over me, I realised that I have somewhat found the clarity and strength I needed to face the decision. However, there is still some lingering doubt in my mind.

Although she asked me to discuss this with Ma, I cannot do it, due to my own reasons.

As I walked away from the orphanage, my mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The unexpected proposal had thrown me off balance, and I struggled to make sense of it all.

On one hand, there was the undeniable urgency of the situation. Pa's fate hung in the balance, and Mr. Parker's offer seemed to hold the key to his freedom. The thought of Papa languishing in jail while we searched for a solution gnawed at me, filling me with a sense of desperation and helplessness.

But on the other hand, there were the nagging doubts and reservations that tugged at my conscience.

Marriage was a sacred bond, not to be entered into lightly. And Mr. Parker's enigmatic demeanor and cryptic motives only added to my unease. Could I really trust him? Was I prepared to sacrifice my own principles and values for the sake of my family?

As I mulled over his proposition, I couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty that gripped me.

What if I was making a mistake? What if Mr. Parker had ulterior motives that I couldn't foresee? The thought of being entangled in a web of lies and deceit made my stomach churn with apprehension.

But then, there was the undeniable pull of duty and obligation. I couldn't stand idly while my family suffered, could I?

If there was a chance—a slim chance—that Mr. Parker could help us, then wasn't it my responsibility to at least consider his offer?

As I wrestled with these conflicting thoughts and emotions, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the weight of the decision before me.

Suddenly, I heard the chiming of the bell, upon noticing, I found the church nearby. I walked inside to have peace of mind.

I joined my hands in front of God and prayed to guide me.

Mumma and Papa, if you are watching me, please guide your daughter. After you guys, these are the people who have always loved me and protected me.

As I chanted these words, I felt a warmth enveloped me as if telling me to listen to my heart, leaving all my worries in God's hand.

I opened my eyes with a new resolution in mind.

The path ahead may seem shrouded in darkness, with no clear answers or easy solutions. All I could do was trust in my instincts and hope that I was making the right choice—for my family, if not for myself.

With a heavy heart and a mind filled with uncertainty, I knew that I had made a decision.

But whether it was driven by duty or desire remained uncertain.

After much consideration, weighing the pros and cons of this arrangement. I made the decision.

As I walked out of the church, I texted Mr. Devil announcing my decision.

“I agree” I simply messaged him these 2 words.

But i didn't receive a reply from him until late into the night. It made me wonder if my message had been received at all.

However, my doubts were soon put to rest when Pa arrived home very late that night. As we listened intently, Pa explained that the real culprit behind his predicament had been found—a revelation that had led to the withdrawal of the case against him.

My heart swelled with gratitude and relief, realizing that Mr. Devil had indeed followed through on his promise to secure Pa's freedom.

Though I still have reservations about the impending marriage, I couldn't deny the impact of Mr. Devil's actions on my family's situation.

As we celebrated the news, I couldn't help but wonder about the mysterious man who had entered our lives with such cryptic intentions.

With the weight of the decision now bearing down on me more heavily than ever, I know that the road ahead would be filled with challenges and uncertainties.

But for now, in this moment of victory, let me allow myself to bask in the warmth of family's love and the hope of a brighter future ahead.

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How is it? Your views or any suggestions???

It was very difficult to write this chapter as I had to depict Vedika's every single emotion, be it internal or external.

I hope I have done that without any gap in her thoughts.

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