REMEMBER, KEEP AN OPEN MIND. THIS IS A STORY WHICH IS ALSO A THRILLER AND A MYSTERY :) ENJOY

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The stylist gracefully placed a silk fur wrap around Anissa's slender shoulders and handed her a small silver clutch purse, completing the outfit.

Shehryaar flanked his elbow in her direction. Anissa inhaled deeply and took his elbow and they left for the elevator.

"Stay by my side at all times. You are to stay with me unless I order Zameer to take you away. Is that understood?" He deadpanned. They entered the elevator.

"Yes," she mumbled in a hoarse voice.

"And don't you dare do anything to embarrass me. Behave yourself tonight, obey and do what I say or trust me, you will not like the consequences." He threatened.

Anissa rolled her eyes. And he's back. I was right all along.

"Did you just roll your eyes at me?" Shehryaar said as he turned to face her. Anissa stiffened upon realising her offensive action but frowned when he chuckled and wrapped his arm possessively around her slender waist. Anissa's heart picked up speed upon his touch. She blushed profusely and tried to look away from him.

"Yes, so what if I did?" She retorted.

"Roll your eyes at me again and I'll take you at my knee right now and spank you so hard that you won't be able to sit properly." He warned yet his voice was full of amusement as he gripped her chin and forced her to look at him.

"Haven't you done enough? I already can't sit."

"Oh babe if you think that's something then you still have no idea what I can do to you." He said as he licked his lips.

Anissa furrowed her brows and creased her nose in disgust.

"You're sick."'she spat and turned her face away.

"So I've been told," he muttered, his lips contorting in a smirk. He leaned down to the level of her ear. "You'll find out about it tonight." He whispered huskily. Anissa shuddered.

"Now, behave." He said strictly, all amusement gone as his eyes went hard and emotionless. Anissa saw him slip into his Shehryaar Ghulari persona as he straightened his back, squared his shoulders and stuck out his chin arrogantly. His whole demeanour changed drastically within a fraction of a second.

His cold hard chiselled features turn dark and menacing. His grey eyes bottomless soulless pits.

Oh please, save me God. She prayed because she was terrified of him.

The elevator opened. Zameer was waiting for them along with five bulky looking men in black suits and shades. They immediately positioned around the young couple as they emerged from the elevator.

They were escorted into a sleek black Hummer limousine. Anissa glanced outside her window and saw the sun set as the tall skyscrapers began to light up.

They bypassed the main city. They arrived outside a huge white mansion. So many others cars and limousines were also approaching the entrance.

They headed towards a heavily guarded area in the hall as they went through security. Shehryaar, Zameer as well as the guards were checked for weapons. Anissa was confused as to why this was happening.

If Shehryaar was the host then why was he himself getting checked for weapons in his own party? She thought. Shehryaar immediately snaked a possessive arm around her waist and pulled her to his side.

"Behave." He whispered in her ear, his tone holding the deadly threat. Anissa shivered and nodded. Zameer as well as the guards dispersed.

They headed inside and Anissa was amazed at the reception. The place was lighted golden with crystal Chanderliers hanging from the ceiling, cream colored curtains struck to the high ceiling windows and the floor made of pure alabaster. So many different types of people came into view.

"Is the parameter secured?" Shehryaar spoke lowly.

"Secure," came Zameer's reply through a micro-ear piece that Shehryaar wore.

"No sign of the media?"

"None, Saeen."

Shehryaar was content.

This was the most private and secretive gathering to be held in Dubai and Shehryaar took great measures towards security. Most of the People here held reputable positions in society and the media was always swarming around them but this soirée was different.

It was Mobster Gathering.

Extremely exclusive and private.

All leaders needed to be neutral in every Gathering hosted by a Gang leader in Dubai. Dubai was considered a neutral ground for all the Asian mafias in the west while Hong Kong was the neutral ground in the East. Almost after every two years, a gathering was put together and all the Mafia members of the Asian Mafia League would join.

This time the honour went to Shehryaar. And he made sure that everything was perfect. He was by far the youngest and most new member of the organisation. He had worked very hard to prove himself and earn a place in the League. He was the First Pakistani Mafia leader to be a part of this notorious organisation.

And what's more, Shehryaar was about to fight a war. There was great power struggle coming his way and he needed to make sure that the strongest mafias apart from his own were on his side: the Chinese and the Russians.

He was well aware that the Chinese leader Xin Chen was on his side but about the Russian leader, Victor Petrov, he doubted because The Russians had good relations with the Indians.

And in this meeting, he wanted to secure an alliance with the Russians at all costs. After all, the Russians were looking for an opportunity to make territory in Pakistan. Of course, he wouldn't give them territory but he would give them shipment and smuggling routes. That was the best way to distract his second enemy: the Pak Army. They already had their hands full with the Western frontier Military operations and if Shehryaar was going to execute his plans swiftly and successfully, he needed his enemies to be distracted long enough till he gains total control of the Sikhai.

"Petrov and Kinar are here." Shehryaar heard Zameer inform him in his micro-earpiece. Shehryaar's hold around Anissa tightened as they went on and greeted many different people.

He seated Anissa on the head table. Anissa felt grateful as she felt intimidated and overwhelmed. She wasn't used to such grand parties.

At exactly 6pm, everyone took their seats in their respective tables as Shehryaar made his way to the stage. Taking the microphone in his hand, he faced his guests.

"On Behalf of the MMM party from Pakistan, I, Shehryaar Ghulari would like to welcome you all to the 25th Gathering of the Asian Mafia League. This years it's been my honour to be your host so please do enjoy. Cheers." He said charismatically as he raised his champagne flute towards his guests. There wasn't more that he needed to say since he will be meeting will all of the Mafia leaders individually.

Anissa was surprised to learn that Shehryaar drank. For Pakistanis, it wasn't common to consume alcohol yet here her husband drank so shamelessly in front of her.

Dinner was served. Shehryaar went to his table and sat down for dinner. After dinner was done, entertainment started. Shehryaar and Anissa proceeded to greet every leader on their tables. Shehryaar proudly claimed Anissa as his wife and soon she was in the limelight. She didn't even try to get along with the other Mafia wives as she didn't feel like she belonged here.

But when they arrived at the table of the Emirates' Mafia leader, Sheikh Abdul Rauf, Anissa's attention was caught by a beautiful exotic Arabian woman by his side. She was dressed modestly and her mannerism resembled that of royalty. She immediately felt comfortable when the woman started to talk to her in English.

Anissa sat beside her throughout the entertainment while Shehryaar discussed business with her spouse.

When entertainment was done, all the wives and ladies were escorted to a different place for drinks while the men proceeded in a large hall for a conference.

Shehryaar had Zameer escorted to one of the guest rooms in the mansion. He had noticed that she was getting very comfortable with Abdul Rauf's wife. Shehryaar didn't approve. He didn't want her to make any friends with the ladies since their partners and spouses were all powerful men and if Anissa ended up making a friend then it would cause problems for him.

He wanted Anissa all to himself and his sadistic self wanted to completely isolate her. He knew she wasn't that social but she wasn't introverted as well.

The conference was a tradition. It was laid down my Sheikh Abdul Rauf, since he was responsible for maintaining neutrality of the UAE in the western part of Asia. While Zen Sheng, leader of the Hong Kong was responsible for maintaining neutrality in the Far East.

Everyone was present in the conference hall. It wasn't anything special for Shehryaar since it didn't benefit him. His enemy and allies were all present.

It was tradition to put forward deals and proposals in the conference. Every leader was obliged to contribute and since Shehryaar was the host, he made the largest proposals with investments and shares. The alliances were refreshed since all the leaders were held in blood oath.

However, the same couldn't be said about the leaders who were enemies to one another like the Chinese who were enemies with the Japanese and the Russians who were competitors with the Chinese.

But every Mafia boss had to be neutral when in Dubai and especially in this meeting. This was the only reason why Shehryaar was being patient when his enemy, Shakir Kinar was present in the same room as him.

Of course, every country has many Mafias but only the strongest Mafia had the chance to be a part of the Asian Mafia League. Chen and Petrov were the most powerful mobsters from their respective counties while Ghulari and Kinar were the most powerful in their regions.

Even though every mobster present wanted to kill each other, yet they honoured the gathering because of one purpose: unity against the Western alliances.

This was the only reason why the AML was formed. Because the Asian Mafias maybe be enemies or allies with one another; they were definitely enemies with the American and European Mafias.

After everyone left, Shehryaar and Petrov moved to a private room for their own meeting.

Victor Petrov held power in the Asian part of Russia while his arch enemy, Ivan Konstantin held power in the European side. Shehryaar knew that Petrov was seeking routes in the south for his business since the sea surrounding his territory held harsh Tundra and annual winters while the area under Konstantin was secure and viable with many routes and passages throughout Europe. Shehryaar was well aware that Petrov got some routes in India from Kinar but it wasn't enough for him. And that's why he was about to make a proposal that Petrov wouldn't be able to resist.

"This Gathering was a success. I congratulate you." The Old Russian mobster commended in his thick accent. He didn't expect a newbie youngster like Shehryaar, who became a member of the league only six years ago to be able to pull off the gathering with such success. The host was always an experienced mobster but Shehryaar had prove himself a long time ago.

"Thank you Sir," Shehryaar spoke with respect. If he wanted to gain something he needed to give something as well. And the powerful Russian leader deserved his respect.

Shehryaar walked to the bar and poured two drinks.

"So, what is the purpose of this meeting?"

"Well," Shehryaar started and gave Petrov his drink. "I'm here to propose an alliance." Shehryaar knew that Petrov didn't like to beat around the bush.

Petrov's thick brows jumped up in interest as he took a swing at his drink. "Oh? And what proposal is that?"

Shehryaar handed him a contract. Petrov's old intense gaze read through the contract and his lips twitched.

"This is a good proposal." He said and threw the contract on the coffee table in front of him.

"I know that your son will be taking over after you. So I wanted to secure this alliance with you before that happens."

"And why is it that you don't want to have an alliance with my son?"

"That shall happen in due time but for the time being I would like to work with you." Shehryaar answered honestly. Petrov nodded in agreement; he liked the young man.

"What do you propose?"

"The port of Gwadar is still abandoned and underdeveloped. So far most of the projects were held by my company. All the constructions and projects were stopped due to security issues in Pakistan. That will provide you with the perfect routes to easily enter into Pakistan. From there, my forces will ensure that your business is carried out swiftly. It's an easy route. It's from the south straight to the north. My factions and legions are present on the Afghan border." Shehryaar finished.

Petrov raised a brow at him. "And what do you want in return?" Petrov knew that this proposal was very good since the route was short as compared to India.

Shehryaar gave him a small smile. His face was blank as well as his eyes. The same could be said about the old Russian sitting in front of him.

"Your support. I'm about to start a war. I already have Xin Chen on my side."

"Oh? Then why do you need my support then?" Petrov didn't like The Chinese.

"I need your support to keep Kinar in place." That is all he said. He didn't need to explain any further since Petrov was well aware of the situation. It wasn't common knowledge but only those who were interested in Pakistan knew that Shehryaar was about to become the most powerful man and it would benefit all of them to have alliances with the young mobster.

Kinar was experienced and was in the Mafia a longer time then Ghulari but Petrov knew that He wasn't as powerful in his region as Shehryaar was since the Indian Mafias were already at war with each other. Kinar was by far the most powerful leader from the east and south of India but that wasn't enough.

Petrov had faced some set backs when he made an alliance with Kinar because of the other mafias in India who were enemies with Kinar. The only reason Kinar wasn't able to cease all the power till now was because the other Mafias were equally as strong as his. The power struggle in India was an ongoing war for decades now.

While with Ghulari, Petrov knew that he had a good chance of becoming the sole owner of the Mafia in the country. Pakistan wasn't included in the AML because the Mafias in Pakistan were small, divided, localised and more into politics. They didn't bother much with overseas alliances and the three decades of various dictatorships in Pakistan had put a strong hold on Mafia activity in the country, dissolving and disbanding most. But when the last military dictator was removed and the government was shifted back, Shehryaar made an appearance with his MMM party and was the first to make overseas alliances as well as become the first Pakistani mobster to join the AML.

With Ghulari, Petrov knew that the power struggle wouldn't take long to dissipate. Pakistan was a small country and the small time Mafias were usually from old traditional feudal families who had no idea about the new ways that were adopted.

With Ghulari, Petrov was certain that this alliance would bring tremendous benefit for his business.

"And why should I make an alliance with you? Aside from your proposal, what else do I stand to gain?" He inquired, his tone hard.

Shehryaar smirked. He knew this was going to come his way. "Soon enough, I will be gaining all the power in the country. Once I've secured that position, I will be opening and arming the western borders. The only problem would be the Military since they are securing the borders but when I have all the power, I will make sure to take them down."

"Are you planning on taking over the country?"

"Yes, in a way. My only interest is in the central region that harbours the Sikhai province. The current leader of the region, who I plan on taking down, doesn't realise that the land is rich in mineral resources. Once I get my hands on it, the Military or the government won't be able to touch me. And once everything is set, I will offer 15% of the shares to you." Shehryaar proposed.

Petrov chuckled in delight. "That is very generous of you. So, what would you want from me in return. I know very well that you just don't want me to keep Kinar at bay."

Shehryaar looked at him straight in the eyes. "In exchange of the 15% of shares, I want 10% shares in your business." He claimed.

Petrov grew livid upon hearing that. "What?"

"Think about it. This isn't just a simple exchange. I want weapons and capital. This is going to be an expensive war."

"I will not give you 10%!" Petrov shouted in anger. The mere idea of selling so much was preposterous for him.

"You will gain the 15% back when you get your shares. After all, isn't it better then the 7% of shares that Kinar promised you. I'm offering more."

"The fuck you are." Petrov roared.

"With this proposal comes my complete loyalty. I want this war to go off without any hindrances and you as well as I know that Kinar is looking for any opportunity to strike. I want him at bay while I take care of business. You stand to gain a much easier access to the south. You have nothing to lose and only to gain."

Petrov remained silent as he contemplated on the proposal. He glanced at his side towards his second in command who was looking at his boss.

"I think you also made the same proposal to Chen, am I right?"

"Of course," Shehryaar affirmed. "After all, I want to secure alliances with the most powerful Mafias in Asia."

"I will not give you 10% but I am inclined towards 6%," Petrov claimed.

Shehryaar knew this greedy old bastard would try this. "Then I will also have to decrease the percentage in my proposal." He spoke calmly and confidently. "If you go for 6% then I will go for 10%." He countered. He carefully examined the old Mafia boss as his face changed color in fury. He was being a fool. That's why Chen and Petrov were competitors; the only difference between the two old Mafia bosses was that Chen recognised a good proposal when he saw one while Petrov was a hard head and wasn't easy to please.

"Then I want the lands that come with the 15%."

He knew Petrov wanted territory. And Shehryaar wasn't about to give it to him. "Alright, lands exchange for lands." And that was enough to make Petrov's anger flare and blast.

"Listen here you bastard, you came to me. I didn't come to you. Now either you accept my terms or you get nothing." He sneered and jumped to his feet. His second in command also stood by his boss.

Shehryaar stared blankly at Petrov. "With all due respect sir, I came with a better proposal. This is something you can't get from Kinar. My offer still stands."

Petrov didn't respond and exited the room.

"What do you think?" Zameer asked Shehryaar.

Shehryaar smirked to himself as he pushed his hands in his dress pant pockets.

"He'll accept. He has no choice. With winter coming soon, he knows he'll have no choice. My deal is far more better then Kinar's." He claimed haughtily, extremely self assured. One of the reasons why he proposed more then Kinar was because he wanted to gain more of Petrov's support. Kinar was already crossing the line by supporting and supplying Nawaz. He was a thorn on Shehryaar's side, one that needed to be gone soon enough.

He didn't make a name for himself in the business world for nothing. Indus Enterprises didn't become so powerful for nothing. Shehryaar possessed a natural talent for negotiating. That's how his brain functioned: to seek benefit in every situation. There are losses but nothing that couldn't be corrected later.

15% was way too much and even Petrov knew this. It was Shehryaar's loss in the beginning but he knew that he had to be patient for the profits that would late come would be worth it.

Shehryaar took a swig of his drink and loosened his tie. The night was coming to an end. He went back outside as the guests slowly started to leave.

When the last of the guests left, Shehryaar went for Anissa for it was time they left as well.

When he entered the room, it was empty. Anissa's fur wrap and purse were on the bed. Frowning, he looked around. She wasn't in the bathroom.

Shehryaar's composure dropped as Anger took its toll on him. He had clearly ordered her obey him; if he had her escorted to the guest rooms then that meant that she should've stayed in. Yet she wasn't here.

Shehryaar saw red.

"Anissa!" He yelled loudly.

"Zameer, where is Anissa?" He spoke through the ear piece.

"She's suppose to be in the room."

"She isn't fucking here! Find her!" He ordered, his voice booming.

"On it." Zameer quickly replied and the line went dead.

Shehryaar's mind conjured up all the punishments he would inflict on her for disobeying him this time. For most, he was in control of his emotions around her but now he felt his control slip through his grasp.

I've fucking had enough of her bullshit. I'll teach her a lesson she'll never forget. He thought menacingly as he ran his hand through his hair. Why can't she just listen to me? What the fuck is wrong with her? He though as he ground his teeth together.

He was pulled out of his thoughts when the door burst open and Zameer came rushing in, his face pale and breathing heavy.

"She isn't in the compound boss. I had the whole area checked."

"What?" Shehryaar jumped on his feet.

"Check the video footage you fucker!" He shouted. It wasn't possible for her to leave the facility. It was too heavily guarded with the security at the max.

"I did boss. You need to see this." Zameer said and placed an ipad in Shehryaar's hand. He saw Anissa sitting on the bed in the room. She never left the room. He was relieved to know.

But what he saw next had his blood boiling in fury. Two figures dressed in black entered the room when Anissa was gazing out the window and easily subdued her.

"She's been fucking kidnapped!" Shehryaar roared as he threw the iPad to the far wall which shattered to pieces.

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A BIT TOO POLITICAL AND BUSINESS LIKE :p NO OFFENCE TO ANYONE :) ITS JUST A STORY

WHAT DO YOU THINK? WHO KIDNAPPED OUR AINNIE?

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