Page 98 of One Hellish Love

“And you must be Kashish?” she asked, her words sharp.

Kashish had no idea how much Ruchi or her family knew about Rudra’s tragic past, but it was clear Ruchi was aware of her.

“Hi,” Kashish murmured softly, turning back toward the kitchen. She had no time for unnecessary confrontation—her mind was still racing with everything she had learned and experienced in the past two days.

As Anjali led Ruchi to the guest room, Shekhar pulled Daadi aside.

“Daadi, you should have told us beforehand.”

“You didn’t like me bringing Ruchi here?” Daadi asked, her voice defensive.

“That’s not what I meant, Daadi,” Shekhar explained. “You know Rudra. He won’t accept this easily. And if he decides to leave for Paris again, who’s going to stop him? Last time, Kashish managed to keep him here, but if he’s made up his mind, no one can change it.”

Daadi sighed. “He won’t go anywhere, Shekhar. I’m not forcing him to marry. I just want him to spend time with Ruchi. I’m sure that after a week, he’ll realize how much he needs a life partner.”

Daadi’s intentions were clear, but Shekhar remained skeptical. He knew the truth—that Rudra had already chosen someone. It was Kashish. But would she ever accept him in that role?

*****************

Kashish sat in Lavina’s cabin, her mind still reeling from everything that had happened.

“So, what was your Valentine’s gift?” Lavina asked, curious.

Kashish offered a weak smile. “Silver anklets.”

Lavina’s eyes widened. “Oh my God, that’s such a cute gift! Who do you think was your secret Santa?”

Kashish shrugged. “What’s the point in guessing now? There are more important matters to deal with. Like Rudra’s next appointment with Dr. Akash Dixit.”

Lavina nodded thoughtfully.

“True. Do you think Rudra will agree to go this time?”

“He will,” Kashish said, her voice filled with determination. “Because this time, I’m taking him there myself.”

Lavina blinked in surprise at Kashish’s resolve. “You’re really going all out for him. He’s lucky to have you.”

Kashish felt a knot form in her stomach.Was she doing too much for him?After all, Rudra was the one responsible for ruining her life, even if unintentionally. But now, knowing the darkness that had haunted him for so long, she just couldn’t stand by. She needed to help him break free from that past.

“So, when are you booking the next appointment?” Lavina broke into her thoughts again.

“Tomorrow,” Kashish replied. “But don’t tell him yet. I’ll figure out a way to get him there.”

Lavina smiled and nodded. “Keep me posted then.”

Kashish left the cabin. With Daadi pushing harder for Rudra’s marriage, she needed to move fast if she wanted to help him heal before things spiraled out of control. She had a mountain of responsibilities in such little time. And then there was tonight—she had to return to her childhood home, unlock that trunk, and uncover the message her father had left behind.

As she walked through the office lobby, Kashish absently pulled the small key from her wallet, staring at it while lost in thought. She didn’t notice Rudra coming from the opposite direction until it was almost too late. Just before she could collide with a pillar, Rudra grabbed her arm, pulling her close tohim, saving her from the inevitable impact. It took her a moment to process what had just happened.

His arm rested firmly on her back, holding her against him.

“What is wrong with you? Have you completely lost your senses?” he snapped.

Kashish swallowed hard, realizing how close they were.

“You don’t seem to notice any danger around you. First the speeding car, then you bump into me this morning, and now you almost walked into a pillar!” he yelled, his voice raising with every word.

She pushed him away, her own temper flaring. “The most dangerous thing of all is running intoyou! You save me, only to shout at me afterward. What is your problem?” Her voice rose, matching his intensity.

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