Panic causes tunnel vision.

Calm acceptance of danger

allows us to more easily assess the situation

and see the option.

Simon Sinek

...............***...............

Married???

As the priest's words filled the air, the anticipation in the room reached its peak. "You may now kiss the bride," he joyfully declared, his voice echoing through the sacred space.

In that heartfelt moment, our connection felt even more profound. With an unwavering gaze, he closed the gap between us, drawing me gently into his embrace. His strong hand found its place on my waist, pulling me closer to him as if to signify the unity that was taking place. With a tenderness that spoke volumes, he slowly lowered his head, his eyes still locked onto mine, and our lips met in a kiss that seemed to transcend time and space. It was a kiss that sealed our commitment and promised a future filled with love and shared dreams.

7 hours ago...

Karan's POV

I found myself seated at the table next to Mahira, while that bas***d sat across from me, wearing his usual smirk. The circumstances were truly unpleasant. With Romi attending the same college, it became challenging for me to bring Misha here or even meet her elsewhere. I couldn't afford to take any chances that might put her at risk of being kidnapped again.

In hindsight, I deeply regret not heeding Misha's advice and choosing to keep Mahira out of this situation entirely. Initially, I had dismissed Misha's concerns as mere jealousy, but now I can't help but acknowledge how right she was.

Romi had an extensive network of men strategically placed throughout various locations, making it nearly impossible for me to track their movements. It became evident that they were keeping a close watch on Misha and reporting back to Romi. 

My attempts to protect Misha by advising her to stay home backfired when Romi managed to secure admission to our college. This forced me into a situation where I had to be close to Mahira, as Romi used the threat of harm to Misha as leverage.

While I'm not afraid of Romi himself, I am acutely aware that Misha needs time to prepare herself for any potential confrontation. I've informed both my dad and Misha's father about Romi and the looming danger. They have taken it upon themselves to train Misha for self-defense and protection. 

The training regimen includes firearm usage, combat strategies, and various techniques to safeguard against potential attacks. To my surprise, we decided to start by revealing our true identity as members of the Mafia. We were initially apprehensive about how this revelation might affect Misha's mental well-being, but astonishingly, she already had some inkling and took the news remarkably well.

As for my direct communication with Misha, I've refrained from it, given that Mahira keeps a watchful eye on me. However, I've taken every measure to ensure that Misha is fully aware of the ongoing situation to avoid any misunderstanding. We also have our own men closely monitoring their activities to gather intelligence and protect her to the best of our abilities.

Three days have passed, and I've yet to uncover any substantial evidence against Romi. However, today, I couldn't help but notice a slight change in Romi's demeanor; he appeared unusually content. This sudden shift in his mood has raised my suspicions significantly. 

Consequently, I've instructed my men to maintain a vigilant watch over Misha's residence and the surrounding area. It's becoming increasingly apparent that Romi might be planning something, and my instincts are telling me that the danger is on its way.

Adding to my unease, Mahira has been unusually clingy today, making it even more challenging for me to take the necessary actions to protect Misha. Thankfully, before meeting Mahira at the cafe, I discreetly reached out to Rishabh and Tanya for assistance. 

In case the situation escalates or I ascertain the nature of Romi's plans, I've asked them to be ready to step in and help distract Mahira. Their support could be crucial in allowing me to take the necessary actions to ensure Misha's safety.

The tense standoff between Romi and me continued, our eyes locked in a silent battle of wills. When I received a phone call from one of my men, providing me with a convenient excuse to step away from this potentially volatile situation, Romi couldn't resist the urge to provoke me further.

"Oh, my dear enemy," he taunted, "I thought you were truly missing your fiancée, as you claim. But here you are, taking calls from your men and prioritizing work over spending time with your girl after a short curfew."

I felt my fists clench involuntarily, fully aware that Romi was trying to get under my skin. However, I knew better than to let his words rile me up.

Before I could respond, Mahira intervened, surprising me with her unexpected support. "Stop it, bhai," she interjected, "Let me accompany my baby to his work today. He seems really busy, and I may ease his burden."

Her words left me momentarily confused. Was Mahira trying to keep an eye on me here too? This was far from ideal, and I knew I had to take action. I glanced toward the table where Rishabh, Tanya, and the rest of our gang sat, and I subtly signaled them for assistance.

Immediately, they sprang into action. Tanya threw a drink in Mahira's direction, creating a distraction, while the others engaged Romi, diverting his attention.

I seized the opportunity to excuse myself and rushed to a nearby hall to answer my phone call. My heart raced as my man delivered the chilling news: "Boss, they're planning to kidnap Ma'am today. There are many men very close to the house, and it seems Ma'am is alone at home right now."

Panic surged through me. I instructed my man urgently, "Go and secure all the doors of the house tightly before I arrive. Ensure no one can enter, and make sure Misha is hidden."

I hung up and dialed Misha's number, my words initially failing me in my urgency to convey the danger she was in. But then, as I watched Tanya rush to Mahira and Romi's whereabouts unclear, I saw Rishabh on the ground, blood trickling from his head. My panic intensified.

"Misha, be ready," I finally managed to say, "I'm coming."

I hung up the phone, my heart pounding, and rushed toward the parking lot. Mahira attempted to stop me, but Tanya came to my rescue. I noticed that Romi's car was missing, a chilling realization that he was likely en route to kidnap Misha.

Without a moment to spare, I hopped into my car, slammed my foot on the accelerator, and sped off in the direction of Misha's house, determined to reach her before Romi's sinister plans could be carried out.

Misha's POV

In less than 15 minutes since I began packing the emergency essentials my dad had instructed me to prepare, a sudden car horn pierced the air. I was in my room, fully engrossed in the task at hand. My father had impressed upon me the importance of being ready for unexpected situations, and he'd specifically mentioned that I should be extra vigilant and gather essential items such as a firearm, a knife, spare clothes, and my personal accessories.

Intrigued by the abrupt honking, I glanced out of my room's window to find Karan, a familiar face, emerging from a car and hurrying toward my home. A wave of relief washed over me as I realized it was just Karan. Without wasting a moment, I hastily gathered my emergency kit and made my way downstairs.

As I descended to the ground floor, I immediately spotted Karan. He was busy unlocking the front door with a spare key he possessed, hurrying in my direction. His focus was so intense that he failed to notice my presence until he was almost at the foot of the stairs.

When he finally looked up and met my apprehensive gaze, my heart began to race. The cold, unyielding metal pressed against my temple, causing me to freeze. My vantage point didn't afford me a view of the assailant's face, but upon seeing Karan's unmistakable eyes, I had a sinking realization. It was Romano, the perpetrator of my recurring nightmares, making this situation all too familiar and terrifying.

At that moment, flashes of forgotten memories started flooding my mind. I became lightheaded, and fragments of what I now believed to be my past came rushing back, just as they were mentioned in my mom's diary. It was all true. I recalled our family home, the kitchen where Mom used to playfully toss vegetables at me, Prisha, and Dad when she was eight months pregnant with Sahil. We used to tease her, calling her fat, which never failed to provoke her anger.

Vivid images of Dad teaching me ninja techniques and basketball in our garden resurfaced. He always said that I took after Mom in terms of height, and he was determined to help me grow taller. I remembered the numerous times I fell and got injured, and he was always there with his first aid kit. He had a unique ability to lull me to sleep, reading bedtime stories and sleeping beside me, especially when Mom threw tantrums. All these cherished memories were now flooding back.

I couldn't ascertain how long I was lost in this daze, but when I eventually regained consciousness, I found myself in my own room, lying on my own bed.

"Dad! He's in our den now. I'm sure his brother will prepare those papers and take her away," Karan's voice reached my ears. What papers were they talking about?

Anticipating that they wouldn't reveal the truth if I opened my eyes right away, I decided to feign unconsciousness in my quest for answers.

"I know that. But we need to take action. The fact that you two aren't married makes it more plausible," my dad said with evident concern.

A sudden silence ensued.

"I'll marry her as soon as she regains consciousness," Karan declared, and I could feel his firm grip on my hand.

"Are you sure?" his father inquired.

"They know what to do, Demo. Let's get ready for our kids' marriage," Dad said, his voice choked with emotion, his eyes brimming with tears.

Everything was imbued with profound meaning now. I was certain that my family had always loved me, and my dad had been my ultimate hero. I might not remember much about Prisha at that moment, but I was confident that her memories would return to me soon.

"You can open your eyes now, Misha. They're all gone," Karan whispered, a playful gleam in his eyes.

My cheeks flushed as I slowly opened my eyes to find him gazing at me with an impish grin.

We didn't need words at that moment; our silent connection spoke volumes. After what felt like an eternity, my dad returned. Spotting me awake, he rushed over and hugged me tightly.

"Thank goodness you're okay," he murmured, his relief palpable.

"Dad, I remember our past, with you and Mom," I began, sensing his sudden tension. "I recall your ninja techniques and basketball practices." To alleviate the tension, I added, "But I'm still not tall, Dad!" and pouted my lips.

Both of us burst into laughter, ensuring that the situation remained far from awkward, as our shared laughter echoed through the room.

"I'm ecstatic to hear that you remembered everything, Mish. You can't imagine how much we've missed your mischief and antics," Dad exclaimed with a wide grin.

"I know, Dad. I remember the time when you made soup for Mom while she was sick, and I couldn't resist climbing the kitchen stool to taste it. I almost lost my balance, but you saved me," I reminisced, recalling that incident vividly. I received quite a scolding from Mom afterward because she had warned me repeatedly to be careful with the broken stool.

"Yeah, and then I had to sleep in the hall because your mom was upset with my carelessness."

"You were never careless, Dad. You've always been the best father and husband," I affirmed, embracing him warmly.

He chuckled and hugged me tightly. Our tender moment was abruptly interrupted by a cough from beside us. We had forgotten that Karan was still in the room, and now Sahil had arrived as well.

Sahil approached me, embracing me and gently stroking my head. "I missed you so much, sis."

I simply smiled, realizing that there were many memories I had yet to recollect. I couldn't remember much after my kidnapping. Romano and the events surrounding my abduction and rescue were a blank in my mind.

"I remember almost everything up to the kidnapping, but I can't seem to recall the events after that," I confessed sincerely, not wanting to miss any details.

"That's okay, Mishu. We'll help you piece that together, but first, there are urgent matters that require our immediate attention."

"Everything is set, guys. Mish, Karan, both of you get ready. The ceremony will commence in half an hour," announced Karan's father, leaving me bewildered.

"Ready for what?" I inquired.

Everyone exchanged glances before Karan, his father, and Sahil departed. Dad turned to me, exhaling deeply.

"Mish, you and Karan need to get married today. It's essential for your safety. Once you're married, it'll be harder for Romano to come after you directly. There'll still be precautions to take, but I believe you and Karan together form a strong alliance. Please understand, I..."

"It's okay, Dad. I understand. I'm ready for this," I interjected, realizing his nervousness. I had once expressed my wish to have Mom at my wedding, but given the current situation, I knew this was the best course of action.

Dad looked at me, smiling. I could discern pride in his eyes, mingled with a hint of loneliness and guilt. I knew deep down he missed Mom terribly. Her absence had left a significant void in his life, but for us, his children, he had always been steadfast. Though not very expressive, I somehow always grasped his emotions. Mom used to say that I was a reflection of Dad, often catching him in moments of vulnerability.

We spent some more time together before a team of makeup artists entered the room to prepare me. Dad bid me farewell with a kiss on my forehead, and I readied myself for the significant day ahead.

The maid brought my chosen white dress, selected a few days earlier. Our families had prepared everything in advance, anticipating chaos. Little did we know the day would arrive so suddenly.

After a while, the artists finished their work. I gazed at my reflection in the mirror, utterly astonished. Clad in the white bridal gown with elegant makeup, I felt stunning.

"Oh, wow! Today, the groom might faint upon seeing his bride," teased Tanya as she stood near the door, with Dad just behind her.

I turned back, rushing towards Dad, enveloping him in a hug. He stood there, awestruck, while I became emotional.

"Dad," I whispered.

He gently pulled away, planting a kiss on my forehead. "You look as beautiful as your mom, Misha. If she were here, she'd be immensely proud of you."

As he wiped away the unnoticed tears from my eyes, he continued, "Alright, you're ruining her makeup, uncle. I don't think the groom can wait any longer."

Dad and I exchanged smiles at Tanya's jest, and soon it was time for the wedding. The priest summoned the bride, so Dad took my hand, and I held the flower bouquet. We walked down the aisle, and as I reached the stage, I beheld Karan, looking dapper in his suit.

When we stood facing each other, everything began.

The priest's words filled the air, heightening the anticipation in the room. "You may now kiss the bride," he declared joyfully, his voice resonating through the sacred space.

In that heartfelt moment, our connection felt even deeper. With an unwavering gaze, Karan closed the distance between us, drawing me gently into his embrace. His strong hand found its place on my waist, pulling me closer, symbolizing the unity taking place. With a tenderness that spoke volumes, he leaned in, our eyes locked, and our lips met in a kiss that felt like it transcended all boundaries of time and space. It was a kiss that sealed our commitment and promised a future filled with love and shared aspirations.

As our lips parted, the room erupted in applause and cheers. Confetti filled the air, and the sound of joyous celebration enveloped us. Karan and I exchanged a glance filled with a mix of happiness and a touch of disbelief at the whirlwind of events.

Amidst the jubilation, Dad stood there, a proud smile adorning his face, watching us with teary eyes. Tanya was cheering loudly, her infectious energy spreading among the guests. Sahil was beaming, a mix of relief and happiness evident in his expression.

Karan took my hand, and together we walked down the aisle, the atmosphere electric with excitement. The air was alive with chatter and congratulations as we made our way to the reception area, adorned with decorations sparkling in the soft glow of fairy lights.

The room was a testament to meticulous planning, adorned with flowers and delicate touches that reflected elegance and sophistication. The music played softly in the background, adding to the enchantment of the evening.

Guests mingled, laughter echoed, and the aroma of delicious food tantalized the senses. Amidst the bustling crowd, I caught glimpses of familiar faces, friends, and relatives who had come to celebrate this unexpected union.

Amidst the festivities, I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder. It was Karan, holding two glasses of sparkling champagne. He offered one to me with a warm smile.

"Cheers to our unexpected but beautiful journey ahead," he said, raising his glass.

"Cheers," I replied, clinking my glass against his.

As we sipped the effervescent drink, we found ourselves caught up in conversations and well-wishes from friends and family. There was a whirlwind of emotions and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the support surrounding us.

A soft melody began to play, and I found myself drawn into Karan's arms as we swayed to the music. It was a moment of pure bliss amidst the whirlwind of the day. His hand on my waist felt reassuring as if promising to stand by me through thick and thin.

Amidst the dancing and laughter, Dad approached a hint of mischief in his eyes. "May I have this dance with my daughter, the bride?"

I laughed and accepted his offer, dancing with Dad, feeling a rush of emotions, a blend of joy, and a tinge of sadness that Mom couldn't be here to witness this moment.

As the night progressed, the festivities continued, weaving a tapestry of beautiful moments that would be etched in our memories forever. Karan and I stole moments in between, stealing glances and sharing whispered promises of a future filled with love and adventure.

The night wore on, and eventually, it was time for us to bid farewell to our loved ones, marking the end of a day that had been both unexpected and unforgettable.

As we stepped into our new journey together, hand in hand, the stars twinkling above seemed to bless our union, promising a future that held endless possibilities.

Amidst the joyous celebration and laughter, there existed a set of eyes, unnoticed in the midst of the festivities. A man, standing at the periphery, observed the ceremony with a calculating gaze. His keen eyes swept over the guests and the newlywed couple, absorbing every detail with a sense of intent.

In the midst of this, a sudden commotion caught everyone's attention. The man's associates appeared, bringing along an injured figure. A sharp gasp rippled through the room as the injured man uttered a single word, "Brother!" His voice carried a mix of pain and desperation.

Instantly, the observing man turned, his countenance shifting from detached observation to a rush of emotions. With an unmistakable surge of recognition, he rushed forward, enveloping the injured man in a tight embrace. Their brief but intense exchange held a mixture of relief and concern.

However, amidst their reunion, a palpable tension emanated from them. Their gaze lingered on the newlyweds, their eyes ablaze with a fire of vengeance and unresolved conflict. It was a chilling sight, a simmering vendetta that had seemingly resurfaced in the midst of a joyous occasion.

Without a word, the two men exchanged a glance, a silent vow passing between them. Their departure was as sudden as their arrival, swiftly making their way out of the ceremony, leaving behind an aura tinged with revenge and unresolved grievances.