𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐢...

"Tumse Pehle Tumsa Koi
Humne Nahin Dekha
Tumse Pehle Tumsa Koi
Humne Nahin Dekha
Tumhein Dekhte Hi Marr Jaayenge
Yeh Nahin Tha Socha"

It had been a week since Shlok Singhania, Miksha's dadu, had awakened from his coma. The entire family was overjoyed by his recovery, but Miksha was especially happy. For the past week, she had stayed by his side, refusing to leave him alone even for a moment.

On the second day of his recovery,Shlok Singhenia had called Karthik and his family to the mansion for what turned out to be a grueling five-hour "interview."

"Walk a few steps. Let me see if you're strong enough to protect her."

"Do you know how to cook? My granddaughter won't be the one slaving in the kitchen all the time!"

"Any bad habits? Smoking? Drinking? Gambling?"

"Have you had any past affairs? Be honest!"

"Do you plan to cheat after the wedding?"

"How much do you earn? Is it enough to ensure her happiness?"

Karthik and his family had left the mansion exhausted and flustered. Despite Shlok singhania'S constant though reject him for his granddaughter, he had reluctantly accepted it when he realized it was Miksha's choice. However, he still cursed Karthik under his breath for "stealing" his precious granddaughter.

Currently, Miksha sat with her father, Abhyant, on one couch in Dadu's study, while her uncles, Shashvat and Vivaan, occupied another. Shlok Singhania sat behind the massive oak desk..

"Dad, you seriously don't remember the person's face?" Abhyant hissed in frustration .

"No," Shlok replied, frowning deeply. "I was heading to the company because the security team informed me about someone breaching into the company and he is in my cabin. On my way there, in the dead of night, a car suddenly came out of nowhere from the left and slammed into mine. The force was so hard that my car flipped. The headlights blinded me, so I couldn't make out the driver's face."

"It's the Sisodias! I'm sure of it!" Miksha declared, her voice laced with anger.

"Don't jump to conclusions without proof," shlok singhania said, his tone firm. He then turned to her, his gaze sharp. "So, you think Advait Sisodia is behind this?"

"You've been searching for proof against him for eight years. Have you found anything?" shlok singhania's question silenced Miksha, and she looked down, swallowing her frustration.

"No, right? And as for this 'L' person you mentioned who's been sending parcels, it suggests two possibilities: either they're too clever and planned everything careful to avoid suspicion, or they're not behind this accident at all," Shlok said with a heavy sigh.

"What about the party incident?" Shlok asked after a brief silence.

"Mr. Vasi openly admitted he planned my murder," Miksha explained, detailing the situation. "He's in jail now."

Her words left everyone in the room both curious and confused.

"That's... suspicious," Abhyant muttered.

"And there are rumors about Advait Sisodia and Natasha Vasi getting engaged," Shashvat added, fueling the conversation further.

Miskah clenched her jaw and fisted her hands . She gulped her anger .

"Then it's possible the Sisodias planned the attack at the party," shlok concluded, nodding thoughtfully. Everyone else mirrored his gesture, albeit reluctantly.

"Are you going back to your penthouse today?" Shlok asked suddenly, shifting the topic.

"Yes, Dadu," Miksha replied.

"Are you certain about Karthik Luthra?" shlok asked, his voice serious.

"Yes," she answered with a confident smile.

"There's no chance of canceling the wedding?" Shlok asked hopefully, like a child expecting his favourite candy .

Miksha shook her head with a smile, causing him to sigh heavily.

"No? Should I just kill him then?" Shlok asked, cracking his knuckles.

"Dadu, please!" Miksha whined, exasperated.

"Fine," he muttered defatedly.

"Do one thing-arrange a meeting tomorrow with Sanjay Sisodia and Advait Sisodia," Shlok said suddenly. His words stunned everyone in the room.

"Why?" Miksha asked, her voice laced with suspicion.

"We need to discuss a truce between the Singhanias and the Sisodias," Shlok announced.

Everyone shot up from their seats in disbelief.

" are you serious?!" Vivaan yelled. "They tried to kill you! They even targeted Miksha! They've been mocking us for years, and you want to make peace with them?"

"Instead of making them pay for what they've done, you want to befriend them? This is nonsense!" Abhyant shouted.

"Lower your voice, Abhyant Singhania and vivaan singhania" Shlok ordered sternly. His expression hardened as he continued.

"If we want to survive in this world, we either kill our enemies or make them our side"

Shlok's tone softened slightly as he explained, "In the eight years I was in a coma, I realized something important. Having enemies isn't a proud Thing, especially when those enemies are willing to harm your family. If my father had apologized back then, the Sisodias might not have targeted us. But we can't change the past. The fact is, because of one of our men , Sanjay Sisodia, lost his life, and they went bankrupt."

He looked directly at Miksha and said, "I'm proposing this truce because I don't want my grandchildren to suffer because of an old baggage . Yesterday, they tried to harm you, Miksha. Tomorrow, it could be Ahvi, Pihu, Reyansh, Ved, Sahil, or Aurik. I refuse to let any of my family members suffer because of something so senseless."

"Truce means we stop the personal attacks," Shlok clarified. "Professionally, we'll still compete, and we won't let them take our deals , our things but only In professional level . As for revenge for Miksha's attack, we'll handle that-strategically "

He looked at everyone in the room, his eyes filled with determination. "I've always said personal and professional lives should never mix. When they do, it leads to destruction on both sides"

"Miksha is getting married soon and I can't live in a constant fear for my granddaughter life . If a truce can save my grandchildren's life I am ready for it " Shlok singhania sighed .

"The Sisodias may don't have much to lose , but I have my wife, my grandchildren-and I won't let anyone harm them."

Miksha sat quietly, lost in thought, as Dadu's words echoed in her mind.

Could this truce really bring peace?

Or would it open the door to even greater destruction?

✶⊶⊷⊶⊷❍⊶⊷⊶⊷✶

Miksha entered her room and collapsed onto the edge of her bed, her hand instinctively clutching her forehead. Her mind swirled with conflicting emotions and unanswered questions, leaving her utterly restless.

The memories of that dreadful day replayed vividly in her mind, refusing to fade even after all these years.

15th September 2016 :

Miksha age - 17 years

12:35am

It had been four days since Miksha's kidnapping. Though she was physically back home, her spirit seemed unsettled, fractured. The wounds on her body were wrapped in bandages, but her mind bore invisible scars. The memories of that fateful day were wiped clean-24 hours completely erased.

Every time she tried to recollect what had happened, she was met with a blank void. It frustrated her. Her family had assured her that it was her mind's way of protecting her, but the emptiness only deepened her anxiety.

This night was no different. Sleep evaded her completely. Every time she closed her eyes, faint echoes of someone yelling jolted her awake. The screams sent shivers down her spine, leaving her restless.

Miksha finally gave up trying to sleep. She threw a shawl over her shoulders and decided to take a stroll in the garden, hoping the fresh air might soothe her nerves. But as she descended the grand staircase and entered the hall, she noticed a figure hurriedly walking toward the main door.

"Dadu?" Miksha's voice broke through the stillness, her tone uncertain yet curious.

Her grandfather, Shlok Singhania, stopped in his tracks, turning to face her. His expression softened at the sight of her.
"Miksha, what are you doing up at this hour?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

"Couldn't sleep," Miksha replied, walking closer to him. "Where are you going this late, Dadu?"

Shlok hesitated for a brief moment, his usual calm demeanor flickering. "Something important came up at the office. I'm heading there," he said, patting her head gently.

Miksha frowned, her unease deepening. "Can't it wait until morning?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shlok chuckled lightly, though his eyes betrayed his urgency. "No, princess. It's very important. I'll take care of it quickly and come back, okay?"

"Should I call Dad? Maybe he can-"

"No!" Shlok interrupted, shaking his head. "Let him rest. He's already under enough stress. Don't worry about me, bunny. I'll be back before you know it."

He leaned down to place a soft kiss on her head. "Good night," he said with a warm smile before turning toward the door.

Miksha still feeling uneasy, called after him. "I'll be waiting, Dadu!"

Shlok paused and turned back to her, his face softening further. "Okay, my bunny. But promise me you won't leave the mansion. It's night and it can be dangerous"

Miksha nodded reluctantly. "I promise."

With that, Shlok stepped out into the night, leaving her standing in the middle of the hall.

Three hours passed.

The once-quiet mansion now felt suffocating. The ticking of the large clock in the hall echoed loudly, each tick amplifying her growing anxiety. Miksha paced back and forth across the hall, her shawl clutched tightly around her shoulders.

Her gut twisted in knots, a feeling she couldn't shake. Something was wrong. She could feel it in the pit of her stomach.
"Where are you, Dadu?" she muttered under her breath, glancing at the door for what felt like the hundredth time.

She grabbed her phone and dialed his number. It rang and rang, but there was no answer. Her heart raced as scenarios began playing out in her mind-each worse than the last.

She tried calling again. Still no response.

Miksha's pacing turned frantic. The eerie silence of the mansion only made her unease worse. Her mind replayed flashes of the haunting screams she'd been hearing every time she closed her eyes.

She jerked her eyes open and kept telling herself that her grandfather is fine .

She clutched her phone tightly, staring at it as if waiting to buzz with some sign of her grandfather. But it didn't.

"Why hasn't he come back yet? He said it was quick," she whispered to herself, her voice trembling.

Her anxiety spiked with each passing second. Her eyes darted to the door, and for a fleeting moment, she thought of running out to look for him. But she remembered her promise.

"No, Dadu told me not to leave," she said firmly, trying to convince herself to stay put. But her heart wasn't listening.

The knot in her chest tightened. She could feel something bad is going to happen. It was as if the night itself was warning her that something terrible was about to happen.

A loud crack of thunder echoed outside, followed by the distant sound of rain pattering against the mansion's large windows. Miksha jumped slightly at the noise, her unease reaching its peak.

Miksha couldn't bear the waiting any longer. The anxiety gnawed at her, refusing to let her sit still. Not able to hold herself more , she walked toward her parents' room, her footsteps echoing in the quiet mansion. Reaching their door, she knocked twice, the sound sharp in the silence.

Her parents took a moment to open the door, their expressions a mixture of concern and sleepiness.

"Miksha?" her father, Abhyant, asked, his brows furrowed. "What happened , Are you okay . Do you feel any pain ?"

Miksha stepped closer, her voice trembling. "Dadu... Dadu left for the company hours ago. He said he'd be back quickly, but it's been three hours, Dad! He hasn't returned!"

Abhyant's face instantly hardened, his sleepiness replaced by a sharp alertness. "Wait here," he said, grabbing his phone. He quickly dialed the number for the company's watchman.

"Hello? Did dad reach the company ?" Abhyant asked, his voice firm and demanding.

A moment of silence followed as the watchman responded. Abhyant's expression darkened, and he lowered the phone from his ear.

"What did he say?" Miksha asked, her voice trembling with panic.

"The watchman said Dad hasn't reached the office yet," Abhyant said .

Miksha's heart sank. "What?!" she exclaimed, her voice breaking. "Where is he? Dad, where is Dadu?"

Abhyant placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, though worry was etched on his face. "I'll go find out. You stay here with your mother," he said firmly.

"No!" Miksha protested, shaking her head. "I'm coming with you!"

"Princess..." Abhyant began, his tone soft but insistent.

"Please, Dad," she pleaded, her eyes brimming with tears. "Please take me with you. I can't just stay here and wait. I need to know he's okay!"

Abhyant sighed deeply, seeing the desperation in her eyes. He exchanged a quick glance with Ayushree, who nodded silently .

"Alright," Abhyant finally said .

Abhyant, Ayushree, and Miksha, along with two cars filled with security raced through the dark, rain-slicked streets, desperately following the GPS tracker on Shlok Singhania's car.

"Stop the car!" Abhyant suddenly yelled, his voice sharp with urgency. The driver hit the brakes, and Abhyant was already opening the door before the car came to a halt. Miksha and Ayushree followed close behind, the bodyguards following them.

The sight before them was horrifying-a Singhania security car riddled with bullet holes, and seven bodyguards sprawled on the ground, their uniforms soaked in blood. The air was thick with the metallic scent of gunfire and death.

"Where is Dadu's car?!" Miksha screamed, her voice cracking as she stared at the lifeless bodies, her hands trembling.

Zubair, the head of security, stepped forward, his face grim. "Sir, I believe Shlok sir's car would have continued down the same route. We should keep following the GPS signal."

Abhyant nodded tightly, his jaw clenched. "Get back in the cars. We don't have time to waste."

After fifteen minutes, they came across another horrifying scene-a second security car, abandoned and riddled with bullets, the guards lying motionless on the ground. The vehicle bore the scars of an intense gunfight, its windows shattered and the doors hanging ajar.

"Keep going!" Abhyant ordered, his voice trembling with suppressed fear. Miksha sat beside her mother, her hands clutching the edge of her seat so tightly her knuckles turned white.

Thirty minutes later, the convoy came to a screeching halt. Ahead of them, a car lay flipped on its side, smoke rising from its shattered frame.

"It's Dadu's car!" Miksha gasped, bolting out of the vehicle before anyone could stop her.

"Miksha, wait!" Ayushree called out, running after her.

"Dadu!!" Miksha's scream pierced the night as she reached the overturned car and saw her grandfather.

Shlok Singhania lay motionless in a pool of blood, his body marred by glass shards embedded in his arms and deep gashes on his head. Blood trickled from his temple, staining the ground beneath him.

Ayushree caught Miksha just as she fell to her knees, trembling with shock. "Miksha, stay back!" she said, holding her daughter who was wiggling to come out of her mother's embrace.

Abhyant, with the help of Zubair and the bodyguards, carefully pulled Shlok out of the wreckage. "We need to get him to the hospital. Now!" he barked, his voice heavy with urgency.

The bodyguards moved swiftly, helping Abhyant carry Shlok into the waiting car. Miksha climbed in beside her grandfather, clutching his bloodied hand tightly, tears streaming down her face.

Within minutes, they reached the nearest hospital. Doctors and nurses rushed out with a stretcher, quickly wheeling Shlok into the emergency room.

"He's losing a lot of blood," one of the doctors said urgently. "Get him to the ICU immediately!"

Miksha tried to follow, but Abhyant held her back. "Princess, let them do their job," he said gently, though his voice betrayed the terror he felt inside.

As the doors to the ICU swung shut, Miksha collapsed into a chair, her mother wrapping an arm around her. "He'll be okay," Ayushree whispered, rubbing her arms .

Miksha excused her parents, her composure barely holding. She pushed open the door to the restroom, her breaths uneven as she reached the sink. Her trembling hands gripped the edges of the basin. Tears spilled uncontrollably, and she clamped a hand over her mouth, stifling her sobs to not wanting her parents to hear it .

As she tried to steady her breathing, her brown eyes lifted to the mirror. Her heart leaped into her throat when she spotted a reflection behind her.

A man wearing a Black hoodie .

She spun around quickly, her back pressing against the basin. "Advait...?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Advait stood there, leaning casually against the wall, a cruel smirk tugging at his lips. "Yes, little flower," he replied, his voice low and mocking. He straightened and began closing the distance between them.

Before Miksha could react, he trapped her between him and the sink, his hands resting on either side of her. His sharp gaze bore into her, noticing the tear streaks staining her cheeks.

"Tsk, tsk... what's this? Is the princess crying for her beloved grandfather?" he mocked, his thumb brushing away her tears with a faking gentleness that only made her flinch.

"Save your tears, princess," he hissed, his voice dropping. "You'll need them when you're mourning over his grave."

Miksha's breath hitched, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Shut up!" she screamed, her voice cracking as she shoved at his chest, but her strength betrayed her, leaving her effort futile.

Advait grabbed her chin, tilting her face up to meet his furious eyes. "Why should I shut up? Does it hurt? Good. Because it's the truth. Did you see all that blood? The shards of glass slicing into his skin? It's a miracle he's even alive-oh wait, he isn't, is he?"

Miksha gasped, his words sinking in like daggers. She blinked rapidly, her mind racing. "Wait-how do you know all this? Were you behind it?" She yelled and grabbed his collar.

Advait chuckled darkly "Oops," he said mockingly, prying her hands off his collar. "Looks like you caught my little secret."

"You bastard!" Miksha yelled, raising her hand to slap him. But before her palm could connect, Advait caught her wrist mid-air with a crushing grip.

"That's not how a good girl behaves," he sneered, twisting her arm behind her back and pulling her closer ,Making her soft clothed breast touch his stoned chest.

Her gasp was muffled as his other hand gripped her jaw, forcing her to look at him. "Easy, princess. You shouldn't punish such delicate hands. Besides, pain... oh, pain is something I know well. Now it's your turn."

"Let me go, you jerk!" Miksha hissed, struggling against his hold.

Advait's voice dropped to a menacing whisper. "Struggle all you want, scream all you want-it won't change anything. Your precious grandfather is gone. Cry, wail, or beg-it's your new reality."

"Shut your-" Miksha began, but her words were stolen as Advait smashed his lips against hers in a violent, punishing kiss.

It was nothing like the first kiss she desired.

His lips were rough, his movements fueled
by anger and cruelty. He bit down on her lower lip harshly, making her whimper in pain. His hold on her tightened as his other hand pressed against her back, keeping her trapped against him.

Miksha's anger flared as she bit his lip in a desperate attempt to make him stop. The metallic taste of blood mingled between them, but instead of releasing her, it only seemed to fuel his fury. He nibbled harder, his lips relentless against hers. When her resistance stopped for a split second, he pinched her waist, making her gasp involuntarily. Taking advantage of her momentarily, he thrust his tongue into her mouth, exploring it with an aggression that left her helpless.

Sucking her tongue till his desire and exploring her mouth . His lips again moved to suck her soft petals which are not soft because of his rough touch .

After felt like an eternity, he left her lips not before moving his tongue on her lower lip testing her blood .

Miksha stumbled as he jerked her away, her knees threatening to give out. She wiped her bruised lips with the back of her trembling hand, glaring at him with tear-filled eyes.

"I hate you," Advait spat, his voice filled with venom. His eyes, dark and furious, bore into her. "I hate you, Miksha Singhania. Brace yourself, because this is just the beginning. I will break you-so completely that not your family, not anyone, will ever be able to fix you."

And with that, he stormed out .

"Miksha!!" Pihu's frantic yell snapped Miksha out of her trance. She blinked rapidly, her tear-filled eyes struggling to focus as she realized that she had been lost in her thoughts for who knows how long.

Pihu quickly moved to her side, sitting down beside her, her expression filled with concern. Gently, she wiped Miksha's damp cheeks with her sleeve, her gaze soft yet filled with worry. "What happened? Why were you crying?" she asked, her voice tinged with urgency.

She quickly wiped her face with the back of her hand, trying to push away the raw emotions that had consumed her. "Nothing," she muttered, her voice hollow, but Pihu wasn't fooled. She shot Miksha a knowing glare.

"Don't lie, Miksha. Don't stress yourself out like this," Pihu said firmly, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Everyone is here for you. And now, Nanu's awake from his coma. He'll find out about that person, the one behind all this. He'll get to the bottom of it, I promisej."

Miksha nodded but her thoughts were far from settled. She looked away, her mind still clouded with questions and doubts. "I'm just confused about one thing," she said softly, her voice filled with uncertainty.

Pihu's eyes softened as she listened intently. "What is it?"

"Is Advait Sisodia behind Nanu's accident?" Miksha's voice trembled as she spoke the name, and she could feel a knot in her stomach tightening. "That day... we took Nanu to the hospital so carefully, without anyone noticing. So, how could he possibly have known about Nanu's condition? It almost feels like... he's behind it. But then there's this other person-someone with an 'L' name-who claims to have been behind Nanu's accident. He even said my family is his next target."

"This whole situation only shows two possibilities," Pihu said after a moment, turning her gaze toward Miksha. Miksha looked at her, desperate for some clarity.

"First," Pihu continued, "Advait Sisodia isn't behind the accident. He just accepted it, in front of you, to mock us and to hurt us. He probably believes the Singhanias are responsible for his grandfather's accident. And the person with the 'L' name-he could be the one behind it."

Miksha's heart dropped as she considered the first possibility. It made sense, but at the same time, it didn't

"And the second possibility," Pihu added, her voice lower this time, "and it's hard to believe, but... what if Advait and this 'L' person are working together? What if they are both behind Nanu's accident?"

Miksha's stomach churned at the thought. The idea that both Advait and this mysterious person could be plotting together, using her family as pawns in their twisted game, was almost too much to bear.

"Anyway, forget that for now," Pihu said. She tried to lighten the mood, though Miksha could see the concern still lingering in her eyes. "We're going to the club tonight."

Miksha frowned, shaking her head. "I'm not interested."

But Pihu wasn't having any of it. She grabbed Miksha's arm and pulled her up from the bed with surprising strength. "Come on, Miksha! You've been so stressed out for years, watching Nanu in a coma. And now he's finally awake! We need to celebrate this, to have a little fun. Please?"

Miksha didn't know what to say. She wanted to stay in her thoughts, to figure out everything that was happening, but she couldn't deny the fact that Pihu was right. Her grandfather being awake was a huge relief, and maybe, just maybe, a night out could help take her mind off things.

She needs a break otherwise she will become insane .

Before Miksha could protest again, Pihu had already pushed her toward the closet. "Go get ready! We're going, and that's final," Pihu declared, closing the closet door with a snap.

✶⊶⊷⊶⊷❍⊶⊷⊶⊷✶

Moon Light Club :

9:00 pm :

The club pulsed with music as Pihu dragged Miksha inside, weaving through the crowd. The dim lights flickered in rhythm with the music, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Pihu had already called a few of their friends ahead of time, and the girls were waiting in a private booth they had booked.

"Hey guys!" Pihu yelled, her voice barely audible over the booming music as they reached the booth.

Nalini and Zara, who were sipping shots, looked up with wide smiles. Zara's eyes instantly widened as she scanned Miksha from head to toe.

"My, my, Miksha! You are looking hot!" she exclaimed, setting her glass down.

Miksha chuckled softly, brushing off the compliment with a smile. She slid onto the plush seat next to Zara. Her outfit exuded effortless charm-a transparent black shirt revealing a sleek black bra underneath, paired with black floral-printed shorts that ended daringly above her knees. She wore glossy black Louis Vuitton heels that highlighted her toned legs. Her hip-length hair fell loose around her shoulders, framing her face, her red lips looks tempting . The diamond studs in her ears sparkled under the club lights.

It was no wonder heads turned as she walked in, the eyes of several men and even women lingering on her striking figure.

"I told her the same thing, but she doesn't believe it," Pihu said, dropping onto the couch across from them with an exasperated laugh.

"No bodyguards?" Nalini asked, raising an eyebrow at the two girls.

"They're standing outside the club," Pihu replied with a casual wave of her hand. "No big deal!"

"Forget about them," Zara interjected, grabbing her shot glass. "Let's have some fun!"

The girls raised their glasses high. "Cheers!" they yelled, clinking the glasses together before throwing back their drinks.

"Whoa, Miksha! Look at you go!" Zara and Pihu cheered as Miksha reached for another shot of tequila .

She just wants to forget every problem . Special the problem which comes with name advait sisodia.

Ae Paapi Paapi Paapi

Ae Paapi Paapi Paapi

Ae Paapi Paapi Paapi

Ae Paapi Paapi

"Come on, babe!" Zara exclaimed, grabbing Miksha's hand and pulling her onto the dance floor. Nalini and Pihu followed eagerly .

Matkaun Main Kamariya

Dheere Dheere Dheere Dheere

Saiyaan Ji Samne Baithe

Jam Peere Peere Peere

The dance floor was alive with bodies moving to the rhythm of the music, and Miksha quickly found her groove. She swayed her hips in time with the beat, her movements fluid and hypnotic.

Matkaun Main Kamariya

Dheere Dheere Dheere Dheere

Saiyaan Ji Samne Baithe

Jam Peere Peere Peere

Her hands ran through her hair as she tilted her head back, letting the music take over. Her hips rolled with a natural rhythm, drawing attention as she twirled, her hair fanning around her like a halo.

Whis Whis Whiskey Key Key Key Key

Maine Thodi Thodi Pee Pee Pee Pee

WEED D D D D Dedo Love Therapy

Her laughter rang out, carefree and Zara matched her energy, their bodies moving in sync.

Mere Naughty Saiyaan Ji Ji Ji Ji Ji

Kyun Peete Ho Itni Ni Ni Ni Ni

Mere Naughty Saiyaan Ji Ji Ji Ji Ji

Kyun Peete Ho Itni Ni Ni Ni Ni

"Girls , you guys are looking smoking hot!" Nalini exclaimed, pulling out her phone to record and record Miksha and Zara .

Pihu cheered from the side "That's like my bestie "

Zara twirled Miksha again, her laughter ringing above the booming music. "If I were a boy, girl, I'd be so aroused right now!" Zara declared with a teasing grin, causing Miksha to burst into laughter.

"Sorry, girl, but she's engaged!" Pihu chimed in from the side.

"Ugh, my bad luck!" Zara said dramatically, throwing up her hands. Miksha laughed even harder, throwing her arms around Zara in a warm hug.

The girls continued to dance, swaying and laughing as the music pulsed through the room. The atmosphere was electric, their carefree energy infecting everyone around them.

After a while, Miksha and Nalini excused themselves to get more drinks, leaving Zara and Pihu still dancing.

At the bar counter, Miksha leaned against the sleek surface, catching her breath while they placed their orders. The bartender worked quickly to prepare their drinks, the clinking of glassware barely audible over the club's thumping bass. Just as the drinks were being poured, Nalini's phone buzzed in her pocket. She fished it out, her face crinkling into a frown as she checked the caller ID.

"I'll be right back-it's my parents," Nalini said, stepping away from the counter to take the call.

Miksha nodded and waited alone, her fingers drumming lightly on the bar. A moment later, the club manager approached her with a smile.

"Hello, ma'am," he greeted, inclining his head slightly.

"Hello," Miksha replied curtly. She didn't bother smiling back .

The manager gestured to the bartender, who quickly prepared another drink. "Waiter, bring ma'am tonight's special drink," the manager instructed.

The bartender nodded and placed a brightly colored cocktail in front of her. The manager slid the glass closer to Miksha with an eager expression. "Try it, ma'am. I' m sure you'll enjoy it."

Miksha glanced at the drink suspiciously, her eyes narrowing slightly before shifting to the manager. She didn't like the way he was staring at her, his over-eagerness setting off alarm bells in her mind. Without breaking eye contact, she took the glass from him and slammed it back down onto the counter with a sharp thud, causing most of the drink to spill over the edge.

"Why don't you try it?" she said gritting her teeth .

The manager's smile faltered as he stared at the spilled drink. "Ma'am-" he started to say, but Miksha turned on her heel and walked away taking her order . She didn't spare him another glance, leaving him standing there with clenched fists and a forced smile.

As she walked away, his eyes followed her, lingering on the sway of her hips and her toned legs .

"That attitude needs to be put in its place," he hissed, watching her disappear into the crowd.

✶⊶⊷⊶⊷❍⊶⊷⊶⊷✶

The music in the club thumped loudly as Miksha danced with her friends, her movements smooth and captivating. She swayed her hips to the beat, the carefree laughter of her group adding to the lively atmosphere. The lights flickered around her, casting her in an ethereal glow, her long hair cascading like silk as she twirled with pihu .

Amidst the noise and laughter, Miksha felt a light tap on her shoulder. Turning around, she saw a familiar face.

"Karthik?" she said, surprise flashing across her features.

"Hey!" he greeted with a casual smile, pulling her into a side hug. "What are you doing here?"

Miksha chuckled awkwardly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "What are you doing here?" she countered.

"Celebrating a friend's birthday," Karthik said, gesturing to a group of guys standing a little distance away. They waved at her, and Miksha returned the gesture with a polite smile.

Karthik's gaze shifted back to her, his brows furrowing slightly. "Don't tell me you snuck out of the Singhania mansion," he teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Of course not," Miksha replied with a smile. "I'm staying at my penthouse now, and Karl's waiting for me outside."

"Good. Just making sure you're safe." Karthik nodded approvingly. "Let me know if you need anything, okay?"

Miksha nodded as Karthik glanced at her friends and gave them a friendly smile before heading back to his group.

Girls returned to their private booth, laughing and chatting, their drinks fueling the high spirits. Miksha was mid-laugh when her hiccups began unexpectedly. She looked around for a glass of water but found none. Spotting a waiter passing by with a tray, she called out to him.

"Excuse me, can I get a glass of water?" she asked, pointing to the tray. The waiter handed her a glass, and she took a tentative sip. Something about the taste felt odd, but she brushed it off, attributing it to the tequila she'd consumed earlier. Shrugging, she finished the water and set the glass down. Her hiccups ceased, but an unfamiliar warmth began spreading through her body.

Suddenly, Miksha felt hot-too hot. Her breaths grew shallow, her chest tightening as her pulse quickened. She placed a hand on her forehead, frowning at the sensation.

"Guys, I need to use the restroom," she announced, her voice shaky as she stood.

"Do you want me to come with you?" Pihu offered, concern flashing in her eyes.

"No, I'll be fine," Miksha insisted with a forced smile. "I'll be back in a minute."

The hallway leading to the restroom was quieter, the muffled bass of the music faint in the distance.

As Miksha reached for the restroom door, a hand clamped over her mouth from behind. Panic surged through her as she was dragged into a dimly lit room and shoved . She tried to scramble up, but a heavy body pressed her down.

"Manager?" Miksha gasped, recognizing the man looming over her.

"Yes, darling, it's me," he said, a sickening smirk spreading across his face. "Now, stay still and let me satisfy that burning hunger of yours."

"Stay away!" Miksha hissed, slapping his hand away as he tried to touch her face.

"Shhh... You'll enjoy this," the manager said, his voice low and as his hands moved to her waist. He leaned closer, his breath hot against her neck.

Miksha's heart raced in terror. She tried to push him away, but her strength was failing as the drug started to show its work , her body trembling and slick with sweat. Just as his lips neared her skin, the sound of the door clicking open echoed through the room.

The manager jerked back, startled. Miksha seized the opportunity, mustering all her strength to shove him off. He stumbled backward and fell to the ground. She staggered to her feet, her breaths coming in short, shallow gasps.

"Are you okay?" A voice broke through her haze. Miksha turned to see Kiaan standing in the doorway, his sharp eyes scanning her for injuries.

If he was one second also late then his friend would have diged his grave .

Before she could respond, Karthik and her friends burst into the room. Karthik's expression darkened the moment he saw the manager on the floor.

"How dare you to touch her !" Karthik roared, lunging at the man. His fist connected with the manager's jaw, sending him sprawling.

He started to punch and kicks until the manger was sprawling on the land with his bleeding face .

"Karthik, stop!" Kiaan intervened, grabbing his arm. "Let the police handle him."

Karthik hesitated, his chest heaving with fury. Reluctantly, he stepped back and turned to Miksha, his features softening as he cupped her face. "Are you okay?" he asked gently.

Miksha nodded weakly, her voice failing her.

"I think you all should leave now !" Kiaan said looking at pihu who was confused then he signalled her towards Karthik and then she understood.

"Yes , Karthik he is right we should leave now" pihu said taking Miksha from Karthik arms .

"Don't worry I have already called the police they will take care of everything" Kiaan said looking at Karthik who nodded his head .

"Take care of yourself" Karthik said to miskha who nodded her head . Karthik and Pihu friends also left from there .

Now only pihu , Kiaan , Miskha and that bleeding manager were in that room .

Before they could leave, an angry voice cut through the room. "Where is that bastard?"

Everyone turned to see Advait storming in rage. Without waiting for an explanation, he marched to the manager and began punching him mercilessly.

"Advait, stop!" Kiaan shouted, pulling him away. "We'll deal with him later. Miksha needs to get out of here."

Advait froze, his gaze shifting to Miksha. She was rubbing her neck, visibly trembling.

"He drugged her," Advait growled, his fists clenching. "I'll kill him!"

"Advait!" Kiaan barked, stepping in front of him. "She needs to get away from here "

Miksha's soft mumble drew Advait's attention. "It's too hot," she whispered, rubbing her arms.

Advait immediately walked to her, his anger giving way to concern.

He shrugged off his coat, tying it around her waist, making sure it coverd her most of tighs and scooped her into his arms.

"Where are you taking me? Let me go! You're not my boss!" she exclaimed, her voice louder than usual .

Advait's jaw clenched, and he glared down at her, his dark eyes filled with fury and frustration. "Shut your mouth, Miksha! I'm already angry enough. Don't test me right now!" he barked making her flinch at his tone .

For the first time, Miksha froze. His tone was sharp, his glare like ice, and it struck a chord deep within her that made her afraid . She stared at him, her lips pressed together, too startled to say another word.

Advait passed through the door, ignoring Pihu's frantic calls from behind. "Wait! Where are you taking her? What am I supposed to tell Karl?" Pihu shouted, hurrying after them.

Advait didn't even look back. "I don't care," he replied coldly ..

Pihu came to a screeching halt outside the door, her hands flying up in frustration. "What do I tell Karl now?" she groaned, pacing back and forth.

Kiaan, who had been silently observing the chaos, stepped up beside her. "Tell him your friends are driving both of you back to the penthouse. Simple," he suggested.

Pihu looked at him, "That's a good idea, but Karl's like a human lie detector. He'll grill me for hours."

Kiaan shrugged. "Then make it convincing. You don't have many options."

Reluctantly, Pihu pulled out her phone and dialed Karl's number. As expected, he picked up on the first ring. "Miss Kulkarni, where is Miss Singhania? She should have been back by now. Are you fine ? Is she fine?"

"Relax, Karl," Pihu said, attempting to sound nonchalant. "Our friends are driving us back to the penthouse. Miksha's already asleep in the car."

There was a pause, then Karl's stern voice came through. "You're not lying to me, are you, Miss Kulkarni? I want proof she's safe."

Pihu rolled her eyes, suppressing a groan. "I'm not lying, Karl. I'll send you a picture of her as soon as we step into the penthouse. Okay? Bye!" She quickly hung up before he could ask more questions.

"That went well," she muttered sarcastically, shoving her phone into her pocket. "Now I need to book a cab."

Kiaan, who had been leaning casually against the wall, pushed off and started walking toward the parking lot. "No need for that. I'll drive you to the penthouse."

Pihu raised an eyebrow, falling into step beside him. "Kind, are we?"

"Not really," Kiaan replied dryly, rolling his eyes. "Just saving myself from hearing you complain for the rest of the night."

Pihu snorted, but a small smile tugged at her lips as they made their way to his car.

✶⊶⊷⊶⊷❍⊶⊷⊶⊷✶

As Advait settled Miksha into the backseat of the car, he couldn't stop his mind from replaying the events of the night. His anger was barely contained, and his fists clenched tightly at the thought of the manager who had dared to harm Miksha. Drawing the partition between them and the driver, he quickly messaged Pranav, his head bodyguard, instructing him to empty the club and keep the manager alive-only until he could deal with him personally.

He was in the middle of a meeting when he received the call for the bodyguards whom he kept behind miskha . When they said about her visit to club with her friend. Advait quickly dailed Kiaan number who was near to the club and told him check on her once .

The sound of Miksha's voice broke his thoughts.

"It's feeling too hot," she murmured, unbuttoning the top two buttons of her shirt.

Advait's gaze flicked to her now partially exposed cleavage, his jaw tightening. He knew the drug coursing through her system was designed to increase her sexual cravings .

Miksha's hand suddenly landed on his thigh. Advait looked at her who was looking innocently while blinking her eyes then at her hand on his tigh.

"Advait, please help me. It's too much. It's painful here," she pleaded, guiding his hand to her chest. Her desperation was palpable as she made him grip her left breast and moaned at the feeling of his cold and rough hand on her body .

Advait froze for a moment, his mind warring between instinct and logic. He knew this wasn't her; it was the drug manipulating her.

She had thought she could have some fun and allow herself to relax, but it seemed like fate never wanted her to find peace.

A tear slid down her cheek in frustration and anger. She opened her eyes as she felt a soft touch against her face.

Her wide, watery eyes met his, and before he could utter a word, she leaned forward, capturing his lips in a fierce, hungry kiss.

Advait's initial shock made him pull back, but her next words stopped him cold.

"If you don't kiss me back, I'll kiss the next man I see," she mumbled against his lips, her tone a mixture of defiance and desperation.

A storm brewed in Advait's eyes. "Like fucking hell I'll let that happen," he growled before pulling her onto his lap, straddling him. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she deepened the kiss, her fingers fumbling with the buttons of his shirt.

Miksha smiled against his lips, her kisses growing more urgent, as if she were starving for him. She sucked on his lips, biting gently. Their lips moved against eachother fighting for dominance. Advait let her dominate . She caressed his lips with her tongue

When she finally pulled back, a sly grin spread across her face. She buried her head in his neck, her breaths hot against his skin. Then, she began to move against him, her hips rubbing against his lap.

"Stop," Advait murmured, his voice strained, his hands gripping her waist to still her movements.

But Miksha, lost to the haze of the drug, didn't heed his words. Her mischievous smile widened as she continued, the friction making him draw in a sharp breath.

"Enough," Advait said firmly . He pressed his forehead against hers, exhaling deeply as he fought to maintain control.

Advait sighed ,

It's going to be a long night .

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

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The first kiss !

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