7 Years Later

SHIVAAN'S POV

" Boss... Are we ready? Today, it is then?"

" Yes, Rian. I believe 7 years is enough time. I hope you've done your work properly. I'm not a fan of loopholes or botch jobs." I warned. 

" Yes, Boss. We've done our research. The plan is perfect. The target will leave for office in about 2 hours. So, till then we'll be all set and placed in our positions. Will you be accompanying us? " He asked looking skeptical. 

Usually, I don't bother with such trivial assignments. I've much more important work going on. However, this one was special as well as extremely crucial. There was no way I was not going to see it go through. 

" Yes... " I confirmed.

" Do you wish to see the photo? " He asked.

" No... That's your job and do well. I will be waiting around the corner. " I said.

" Okay... " Rian replied.

It's rightly said that days pass slowly while years fly away in a blink's time. It's just a matter of few moments before we realize that the springs turned to summers which have given way to falls and then we're in the cold winters again. Not to forget the cruel incessant monsoons in between. Just like that life has happened and it's been 7 years. 7 years and I can finally accomplish that one thing which I'm obliged to do. After that, I'll be free. I'll be completely free from performing my duty of being a good son. 

We believe time heals but sometimes we don't know for sure whether the pain has lessened or we've just grown accustomed to that tiny itch somewhere in our hearts. As if it were a permanent guest, one who's never gonna leave. Honestly, none of that matters now as the time has come. Red Dragons will avenge and they're gonna win this war. And then it's gonna be over. 

Goodbye, Darkness forever.

I keep trying to convince myself that I'm doing this for the team, for our legacy but deep down I know that there's only one person I'm truly answerable to. My dad. That's why I'm messing my hands in this and I just wish to get this done soon. 

Rian and the team went the other way while I went on my way. Everyone was aware of their respective task. Roles had been assigned. It shouldn't be difficult. I rolled in my black BMW nonchalantly looking at the sky as it started drizzling. The dark clouds were gathering at a faster pace than I had anticipated. Well, that should make our work easier. I was about to turn around the corner when the rains increased slightly in intensity. I stopped. There was a crossing. But, that wasn't the only reason why my right foot left the accelerator. It was because I saw something, rather someone. It wasn't a rare sight but there was something in that mist surrounding my car. The wipers of my car were not making it easy for me as they kept interrupting my gaze. I had to squeeze my eyes harder. 

The car was still plodding ahead and then that bunch of chirpy ebullient kids moved. They were dancing for the last five minutes I saw them but it was not them that I had noticed. Amidst the chatter of those tiny kids in their colorful cartoon-printed raincoats, I saw someone unusual, someone, who needs to be observed. One can't just look at them and turn their eyes away. One needs to have a long satisfying moment of uninterrupted staring. It was a person one couldn't possibly take their eyes off. There was something, an aura maybe, or perhaps just the way how they moved. Or simply, I was insane as I had not slept soundly in ages. Nevertheless, this was happening. I was struck just as lightning struck a tree. I was paralyzed.

It was a while later when a couple of women in umbrellas came closer to the dancing group and gathered the children. Must be the mothers. As the kids walked away waving their hands, I saw her. It was only then that I fully saw her. The person who had an aura and had a way in which she moved and danced. She was the one with auburn hair which was soaking wet in the rain but at the same time was so beautiful or rather graceful. She was happy. As she turned her hair swayed along with her sprinkling droplets all around her but she didn't have a day's care. She jumped and laughed and gave the kids kisses before twirling again. She was sodden in what seemed her office attire of a shirt and trousers but she didn't care. I guess that was what amazed me the more. Right here in the middle of a crossing, she didn't care about the world around her. She was like a kid herself. I might be embarrassed to admit that I was mesmerized. Never in my life has a gray morning felt so beautiful and I was about to commit another sin in my life. 

Then she turned again, this time she faced me. She was smiling and it was so cheerful but I didn't realize that my car was still moving slowly, it still had the momentum from before, as clearly I was not in control anymore.

Suddenly, realization struck me hard. I slammed my foot on the brake with my palm blaring the horn as obviously she was lost in her own world to have noticed my car was just seconds away from hitting her. I wasn't speeding but it wouldn't have been a pretty sight. 

I saw her stop as a statue. It was as if she had been struck by lightning now. A moment ago she was a colorful butterfly but I saw her face turn a bit pale and then she raised her hands sideways in a 'WHAT THE HELL' style. Then I saw her lips moving but I couldn't hear a word of what she was saying. She looked furious and was apparently shouting. Pretending to be a gentleman as I wasn't for minutes ago I was staring at her, I got out of the car and walked under the pretense to check her well-being but honestly, I just wanted to hear her voice or maybe get a closer look. The rains were making everything a bit difficult today. So, I was drenched with her. 

" Hey!!" She waved her hand in front of me. However, my treacherous eyes were fixated. Her eyes were round and big and fully dilated, thanks to me. But, what held me captive was their color. It was deep cocoa brown, so pristine and so perfect. I've never seen such pretty brown eyes in my life and I've always been traveling to foreign lands but never have I ever seen a pair of eyes that sparkle as hers that too without any sunlight. They were a shade lighter than dark chocolate but they might be a shade between hazel and dark chestnut. If only I could see them more clearly and closely I'd have known. Or perhaps, even then I wouldn't have been able to describe them perfectly. If that wasn't enough, her auburn shoulder-length hair was coming in the way and she putting them behind the ears repeatedly but they were kinda irritating her more.

" Excuse me, sir. Are you blind? Can't you see where you're going? Or do you have buttons for eyes? God, Hey Man... What are you staring at?" I think I heard her shout now but in truth, I only saw her pink rosy lips moving.

" Hey!!" She gave me a shove. Ironically, it was only then that I was brought back to the land of the living. It was kinda electric. Or simply put I was plain crazy. 

FUCK!! Shivaan, get hold of yourself. It's not the first girl with brown eyes and auburn hair you've ever seen. What the hell? 

" I-I am sorry...." That is all my stupid self could manage.

" Well, It's okay... Have a nice day and drive carefully. " Saying so she walked away. Just like that. And I stood like a fool. Hell, was I hypnotized? For god sake. 

She vanished around the corner while I stood there gaping at her.

* Honk Honk *

" Ooiii... What are you doing standing in the middle of the road? Get aside. " I heard someone shout from behind.

I showed them my hand gesturing to wait for a second. All drenched I got in the car. My black suit was wet and so was my car but then it was all worth it. She was something else, indeed. A memory ingrained in my mind forever. 

Then, I sped off. 

♣♣♣

NAIRA'S POV

Earlier that morning. 

" Simi..... Simi... Get up. It's 9 already. I have an appointment with the new clients in the office. I need to reach in an hour." I screamed. 

" Oh!! Naira... It's raining cats and dogs. Can't you see? And it's so cozy here. I suggest you sleep in today. And I am pretty sure your clients aren't going to show up today. "

I had an impossible roommate and a best friend. We met 6 years ago at the same university from where we did our fashion design course. She worked at Marks while I worked at Zara.

Things were pretty awesome in my life. I was very happy for once. It finally felt like a good phase. 

" Simi!! I'm leaving. Bye...."

She waved her hand while her face was still engulfed in the pillow. I took my coat, an umbrella, and my bag. I was in my formal attire. A pair of black trousers and a cream-colored shirt. Simi was correct. It was indeed raining too much today. We lived in the suburbs of Mumbai.

I left Delhi almost 7 years ago and there was no looking back then. I had left my old life and walked into a new one here in Mumbai. Simi was my first friend and she stayed the only friend I ever cherished. She truly was the best one. Her parents resided on the outskirts of Mumbai some 400 km away from the city. Her dreams drew her to the city of dreams and I'm glad we met. I had met her parents a lot of times and they were an absolute delight. 

Sometimes it feels necessary to have a family. But now she is my only family. On some rough days, I can't deny that I do miss Mom but there's nothing I can really do about that. I'm pretty sure she doesn't miss me at all. I wonder how they are fairing on some days. I wonder whether Dad is alive or if his perilous work has taken a toll on his life too. Then I just push those thoughts away whispering a prayer for their good health. That's the least I can do. 

Oh! I forgot to mention, we both are dating someone. Not that it matters. I've never been serious but she is damn serious this time. I'm doing this because she insisted. 

As I came out of the lift I noticed there wasn't a single cab nearby. The rented apartment which was our home was nice and cozy and at once I missed it because it was a bit chilly this morning. Perhaps, I should've skipped work and slept in. It does sound like a good idea now that I can't find a single cab. 

I stood on the porch of our building. Just then, I saw a bunch of school kids. Maybe their school announced a day off due to the heavy rains which were pretty incessant. But despite all this, they were dancing in their cute raincoats. It was an adorable sight. I spotted two of them jump into the muddy puddles and saw their mothers fuss over them. I loved it. I wished to do the same but then I had work. What a life! I sighed.  

* beep beep *

' Your Meeting has been canceled. The clients weren't able to make it. I have scheduled it for tomorrow.

Lita'

That was my manager. Great! It couldn't get better. What an awesome day!! I was really happy. My mood wasn't at its peak today but glimpsing the kids dancing I decided to join them too. The street wasn't deserted but there were only a few cars. A few moments of bliss won't hurt. 

The school kids lived in the neighborhood only and I knew them well. When I went closer to them they all beamed with happiness. There wasn't any music playing but still, we danced. Despite, the strong breeze the rain felt so soothing. We all held our hands and moved around in circles. We were all in giggles. Sometimes life gives you such tiny surprises and you make the most of them. That's how happiness is measured. 

After they left, I almost got killed. A man in black who clearly looked a bit creepy came in front of me out of nowhere. It was a weird encounter right in the middle of the crossing. It seemed as if his mind had been fogged but nevertheless I wasn't about to ruin my mood.

Later, I dropped one of the kids on the corner to his house. As I was completely wet now (in and out), I thought of picking up some groceries. Simi had done that last week and it was my turn now.

" Excuse me, Ma'am, You are all wet." The lady standing at the security post said.

" Yeah!! I'm aware of that. It's raining outside." I gestured for her to look out of her window and then I saw her eyes trailing toward my umbrella. I got her message. I wasn't stupid enough to not use an umbrella in the rain. I just wanted to get wet. Simple. 

" Ma'am, I just happened to enjoy the rain this fine morning. Hence, eschewing my parasol. " I answered her unstated query before she qualifies me as an insane woman. 

" I'm afraid you can't enter like this."

" What the... Why is everyone this morning hell-bent on ruining my day? What's the problem, ma'am?" I asked her as politely as I could.

" It's like, the fellow customers will be in trouble unnecessarily and so will be the store. Wet floors and stuff. I'm sorry. I hope you can understand. "

" God! I'm not gonna hug your customers and besides, I'm not that wet. C'mon... And my money definitely is dry and my credit cards are all plastic." I said.

" Sorry. We can deliver it to your house if you wish. " She offered.

" Fine. No worries. " She was doing her job anyway. 

To not soil my mood any further I decided to treat myself to ice cream. Yes, I know it's 10 am in the morning but who's stopping me? Well, I said that too soon. As I was about to turn I felt someone's hand snake up on my waist. I turned around but till then my mouth was already covered. I struggled to free myself from their grip but the person was pretty strong. He had to be. I was trapped.

God!! Am I getting kidnapped?
No!! This can't be happening! 

Just then I saw a blurred vision of a black Mercedes van speeding toward us. It stopped and I was pushed inside not shoved inside. I was let go of the stronghold. However, I wasn't gonna give in without putting in a fight. 

" Hey!! What the hell are you doing? Where are you taking me? Leave me at once or else..." I started kicking the tall guy beside me.

" I'm sorry ma'am, but this is happening. "

What...

I saw him pulling out a syringe. I could literally feel the color of my face drain away for the worst. This can't be happening, C'mon. It was all going great until now. 

" Ooiii... You can't drug me." I yelled. 

" This will just make you fall asleep ma'am... " He assured. 

Why is he calling me ma'am? What is going on here?

But before I could protest more the injection had already found its way through my veins into my blood. This ain't happening, today of all the days.

" Sir, It's done. " Is all I could hear before darkness surrounded me.

Pitch Darkness and Nothing More.

Hello, Darkness my old friend. 

But, why me? 

♣♣♣

When I woke up, my neck was strained and my back was in terrible shape. I assumed I would be tied up in a chair with rough ropes around my legs and arms but instead, I was on a very soft and comfortable bed with a duvet. The AC was on. I was in my tee and bear minimums only. Where the hell did they dispose of my shirt and trousers? 

God!! What did they do to me?

Panic was definitely an understatement. I was petrified. I got down from the bed as gently as I could. There was a huge corridor and at the corner, I saw a door ajar. I could hear hushed voices coming from it. I slowly tiptoed on the spotless floor leaving my footprints on it to mark my presence. I couldn't help not looking around. It was a huge mansion as far as I can tell. It was even bigger than the one I grew up in. Yet, I felt suffocating. The stairs at the far end were made of white marble and there was eerie silence surrounding me except for the voices. As I ambled further I peeped over the railing to find a spacious sitting area with a humongous chandelier hanging above the sofa sets. It was as royal as things could get and all I could think that how the hell does a kidnapped person end up in a freaking palace?

Finally, after spying as much as I could I was a step away from the hushed voices, diligent to not make my presence felt. I had even stopped breathing.

" Are you sure she is the one? If you've made a mistake then you all are dead, Rian." It was a husky deep voice and I felt shivers down my spine as soon as I heard it. They were discussing me. I adjusted my position to get a better view and I could see a tall guy standing with a bit shorter one beside him. Both were in black suits similar to the ones my kidnapper had worn. I couldn't see his face since he had covered it pretty well. 

As I entered further to get a view of the third guy, the other two moved and suddenly the tallest of the three was exposed with his back toward me. I noticed his chiseled back as he was standing shirtless with a glass of, I preassume some kind of alcohol, in his hand. He moved his other free through his silky black hair which was apparently wet. He repeated the movements a couple of times more. He seemed fidgety.  

" No, Boss. We are a hundred percent sure. She is the one. We have been tracking her for 3 years. I don't think we're allowed to make a mistake at this point in time." One of the guys in black said.

I think they both are the ones who kidnapped me. That I'm a hundred percent sure. 

" Is she gonna live here?" The tall one in the black suit asked. 

" Hmmm... Yeah!!" The shirtless guy answered. 

I went 'Whatttt...' and I tripped. 

That gave me away and it was gonna happen anytime soon. Thanks to my restless self. One day I had to listen to Simi but no I had to go out today. Stupid Naira!

" Hey! Who's there? " It was the same husky deep voice. 

I fumbled a bit and dashed through the door. if this is happening then I'm gonna fight before I die. And so, I found myself tumbling into this humongous spacious bedroom. It was a lot bigger than the one I had found myself in earlier. 

Just then the shirtless person turned completely to face me. His free hand which was earlier stroking his wet hair was equipped with a gun now. But, that was the last thing that seemed to have bothered me because as soon as I saw his face I knew it was a game over. I gasped and my hand reached my mouth. This ain't happening. 

Fuck! No.

" YOU!!!!" And, I shrieked. 

_______________________________________________

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Vruksha.