Criminal lawyer

1 years ago

Mikky

@MidnightLibrary

Please dear readers ( including silent readers ) and the honourable author gives your valuable feedback after ending of each chapter or the ending of the whole story what you have liked nd what you haven't , so It's helped me to improve later and help me to correct my mistake in my next story.

##############

Prithvi exhaled deeply, his grin spreading across his face as he beheld Sanyogita's incredulous expression. "Jaan, you're worried about this alone? I thought..."

Sanyogita's hands rested on her hips, her eyes flashing with frustration. "Perhaps it's easy for you to say, with your ocean of wealth. But stand in my shoes and consider my situation. I'm just a lost little mouse, with a mere 5 lakhs in my bank account."

Prithvi's gaze held hers, his hands tucked into his trousers pockets. Sanyogita's face contorted in distress, her hands covering her mouth as she slumped onto the couch. Prithvi sat beside her, his voice gentle. "Hey, just listen to me..."

Sanyogita refused to meet his gaze, her eyes fixed on the floor. Prithvi's presence beside her seemed to envelop her, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to her turmoil.

Prithvi's words hung in the air like a promise. "I'll provide the funds for your business "

Her hands dropped from her face, and she met his gaze, incredulous. "What? Why...?"

He smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Why take a loan from a bank when I'm here for you?"

Sanyogita's voice barely rose above a whisper. "No..." Her eyes searched his face, as if seeking an escape from his generosity.

Prithvi's expression turned into questioning. "Why not?"

Sanyogita's shoulders sagged, her words tumbling out in a rush. "Because I already owe you so much. You helped me with 14 lakhs for Ariyan's treatment, and then returned 6 lakhs for that bracelet – Papa's last memory. I've only repaid 8 lakhs of the 20 lakhs. If I take more money from you, I'll be crushed under the weight of my debt."

Prithvi's gaze remained fixed on Sanyogita, his attention riveted on her every word. Despite being a business tycoon with a staggering net worth of four thousand five hundred crores, he knew she didn't covet his wealth. Her eyes sparkled with a fire that had nothing to do with material possessions. He understood her reserve, recognizing the self-respected woman she was. Her self-esteem was the very fabric of her dignity.

"Okay, I get it," he said, his voice low and gentle. His hand settled on her shoulder, a reassuring weight. "But listen to me, just once." His eyes locked onto hers, burning with determination. "When you start your own company, you can easily repay the loan to... your husband."

Sanyogita's gaze roamed his face, drinking in the conviction etched on his features. His eyes shone with faith and motivation, illuminating a path she had yet to take. She didn't respond, but her silence spoke volumes. The air was heavy with unspoken understanding, the connection between them crackling like a live wire.

"Okay, babbaa!! Pay me back the money with interest... ab toh Maan jaoo!!"

Prithvi's voice was laced with playful defiance. His gaze roamed her face, his determination to make her agree evident in the set of his jaw. He observed her lips curve upwards, a light smile playing on them like a whispered secret. She rested her head on his shoulder, her body relaxing into his like a puzzle piece finding its home.

Prithvi's left hand swooped around her, pulling her into his chest with a gentle yet firm grasp. "Jungli billi," he teased, his voice low and husky, sending shivers down her spine.

Sanyogita looked up at him, her eyes widening in a mock surprise, her eyebrows dancing upwards. "What did you say?" she asked, her voice laced with feigned innocence.

He grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners like a well-worn book. "Wild cat ka Hindi," he clarified, his voice dripping with amusement.

Sanyogita rolled her eyes, a playful glint on her own. She snatched a pillow from the couch, its softness a stark contrast to the fiery spark in her eyes. She swatted him on the shoulder, the pillow exploding in a flurry of feathers. "You're a Junglee Billa (tomcat)!" she retorted, her voice laced with laughter.

Prithvi raised his hands, catching the pillow in mid-air with a swift reflex. His brows shot up, his eyes wide with feigned surprise, his face a picture of mock astonishment. For a fraction of a second, they locked gazes, the tension between them palpable, like the stillness before a storm.

Then, simultaneously, they burst into laughter, their joy echoing off the walls like a symphony of happiness. The pillow fight that ensued was a flurry of feathers and fabric, their laughter intertwining like the threads of a rich tapestry.

*********

Three months had slipped away like the gentle flow of a river, leaving Sambhavi noticeably stronger and more resilient.

Sambhavi was doing considerably better than earlier. Sanyogita , meanwhile , had embarked on e new venture - her new company, Fashion Designing and modelling upon the advice and support of her husband. She felt proud of her husband as there was a phrase behind every successful man there is a woman but in her story life has made a twist. It was her husband who had been her rock, her guiding light.

As they navigated this new chapter, Sanyogita cautioned Prithvi that they should wait until things settled before consulting a lawyer.

Prithvi nodded in agreement, not just because her advice was sound, but also because he was deeply moved by her concern and dedication to their little family. Her unwavering commitment had touched his heart, and he felt grateful to have her by his side.

The day finally arrived when Prithvi carved out a precious two hours from his hectic schedule to consult with a criminal lawyer. Arjun had provided him with a curated list of the top 10 criminal lawyers in the city, but only two had agreed to take on the case. Sanyogita had carefully considered both options, but her instincts led her to choose the second lawyer, as the first was a woman in her final trimester of pregnancy, and Sanyogita couldn't bring herself to add to the lawyer's already significant responsibilities.

As Prithvi sat down with the chosen lawyer, he felt a sense of trepidation mixed with determination.

As they arrived at the lawyer's residence, a warm sunlight cast a welcoming glow on the elegant facade. The worker, a middle-aged man with a kind smile, ushered them into the living room, adorned with rich wood paneling and plush furnishings. The air was thick with the scent of old books and freshly brewed coffee.

Five minutes passed, and a poised lady emerged from the hallway, her confident stride commanding attention. Her dark hair was tied in a sleek bun, and her bright hazel eyes sparkled with intelligence.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Malhotra! I'm Miss Indrani Jaiswal, but please call me Indu. I specialize in criminal justice, LLM." Her firm handshake and warm smile put them at ease.

Prithvi and Sanyogita exchanged a brief glance, surprised by the unexpected appearance of the lady lawyer. "Hello, Miss Jaiswal," they chimed in unison, their voices laced with curiosity.

Prithvi's eyes narrowed slightly. "We were expecting your father to take our case. We didn't know..."

Indu's expression turned gracious. "Papa had retired from private practice a while ago. I've taken over the reins now. Please, don't worry, I'm fully equipped to handle your case."

As Indu spoke, Prithvi and Sanyogita exchanged another glance, this time laced with a hint of reassessment. They had expected a seasoned veteran, but instead, they found themselves face-to-face with a dynamic and confident young lawyer.

Indrani's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief as she teased, "What happened, why the surprise? Don't tell me it's because I'm a woman?" Her tone was light and playful, but Prithvi and Sanyogita's expressions revealed their genuine astonishment.

Sanyogita hastened to clarify, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "No, no, Miss Jaiswal, it's not like that at all! We were simply informed that Mr. Ishwar Jaiswal would be handling our case, and that's why we're surprised."

Indrani's grin softened, and she nodded understandingly. "Oh, I see. Well, let me put your minds at ease. Papa did tell me last night that I'd be taking the reins on this one. He's been guiding me, and I'm proud to say he's my inspiration."

As Indrani spoke, her eyes shone with a warm admiration for her father. Prithvi and Sanyogita exchanged a relieved glance, their initial hesitation dissipating.

Prithvi and Sanyogita nodded in perfect synchrony, their faces mirroring a warm smile as they witnessed the deep affection and respect Indrani held for her father. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of familial love and professional camaraderie.

Just then, Mr. Jaiswal entered the room, his presence commanding attention. He introduced himself with a firm handshake and a gentle smile, reiterating what Indrani had shared earlier. "Yes, my daughter will be leading your case. I'll be guiding her, but she's more than capable of handling it."

Indrani's eyes sparkled with determination as she took the lead. "Shall we begin? I'd like to hear your story from the start, even though I've been briefed. Sometimes the smallest details can make a significant difference."

Sanyogita glanced at Prithvi, seeking reassurance. He blinked once, a subtle signal of encouragement. Indrani noticed the exchange but didn't comment, her focus solely on the case at hand.

Sanyogita took a deep breath and began her account, recounting every detail of her sister's tragic story, from the horrific incident to the fateful encounter with Nishant's father at the Malhotra mansion. Indrani listened intently, her expression a mask of professionalism, her eyes never leaving Sanyogita's face.

When Sanyogita finished, Indrani leaned forward, her voice measured. "Okay, Mrs. Malhotra, I understand your desire to reopen the case. However, I have to ask: what prompted you to seek legal action now, after all these years? And why did you wait three months after meeting Mr. Nishant, whom you believe is the primary culprit, before consulting a lawyer?"

Sanyogita felt a sting in her stomach as Indrani addressed Nishant with a title, a subtle reminder of the respect and formality that came with it. But she pushed aside her burning desire for revenge, focusing instead on the reason she and Prithvi had come to Indrani's office. She took a moment to collect her thoughts before responding.

Sanyogita's voice trembled as she poured out her emotions. "We've had our personal struggles, and revisiting the past was too painful. I felt helpless, trapped in a never-ending nightmare. But now, seeing the culprit walking free, I can't find peace. The memories haunt me, and I need closure."

Prithvi's eyes clouded, his face reflecting the anguish he felt as he listened to Sanyogita's words. Indrani's gaze narrowed, her eyes scrutinizing Sanyogita's every word, searching for hidden truths.

"Mrs. Malhotra, can you tell me where Mr. Ranawat is currently?" Indrani asked, her voice firm but measured.

Prithvi intervened before Sanyogita could respond, his voice firm. "He's in jail." The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken emotions.

Indrani's eyes lingered on Prithvi's face, as if seeking confirmation. Sanyogita's eyes met Prithvi's, a silent understanding passing between them.

Indrani exhaled a heavy breath, her expression somber. "Okay, Mrs. Malhotra, you mentioned the incident occurred in 2011, and your sister was part of the 2010 batch." Sanyogita nodded, her eyes fixed on Indrani.

Indrani's voice took on a statistical tone. "Did you know that between 2011 and 2020, India reported a staggering 3,63,193 rape cases? And if we look at the more recent data, from 2020 to 2022, the number stands at approximately 1,23,449 cases." She paused, letting the gravity of the numbers sink in.

"The National Crime Records Bureau reports a 7.3% increase in rape cases from 2020 to 2021 alone. The numbers are alarming, and every single one of us should be concerned." Indrani's words hung in the air, a stark reminder of the harsh reality.

Sanyogita's eyes widened in shock, her mind reeling from the stark reality of the statistics. Prithvi's face mirrored her distress, his jaw clenched in frustration.

Indrani's sigh was heavy with empathy as she continued, "I know this is a lot to take in, Mrs. Malhotra. Your case isn't inherently difficult, but the passage of time has likely erased crucial evidence. Those boys have had over a decade to cover their tracks, and it's possible the court may dismiss the case due to lack of evidence."

Sanyogita's heart skipped a beat as a spark of hope within her began to flicker out. Her voice trembled with desperation, "Jis ke paas koi saboot nahi hota, kya ho begunaah nahi hota kya?" (If someone has no evidence, does that mean they're not innocent?)

Indrani's expression turned somber, her eyes filled with understanding. "I know it's hard to accept, but the law relies on evidence, not just accusations. We need to find a way to rebuild the case, to find new evidence or re-examine old ones."

She paused, her voice taking on a gentle tone. "Mrs. Malhotra, hota hai...I only mentioned one possibility. Life is full of twists and surprises. When we lose faith, hope often emerges unexpectedly. There are cases that reopen 16, 18 years later, and people still get justice."

Indrani's eyes locked onto Sanyogita's, her gaze filled with determination. "I'll take your case, but you must be patient. I believe you can, since you've already waited 11 years. This time too, we'll find a way." Her words hung in the air, a beacon of hope.

Prithvi and Sanyogita exchanged a glance, a spark of hope reigniting between them. Sanyogita's eyes, once dim, now shone with a renewed sense of purpose. Prithvi's face, etched with worry, slowly relaxed, his eyes mirroring Sanyogita's hope.

"Mrs. Malhotra, when you visited Nishant's house, you mentioned he tried to portray your husband as the culprit," Indrani said, her eyes narrowing slightly as she pieced together the events.

"Yes," Sanyogita nodded, her voice barely above a whisper.

Prithvi's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed intently on Indrani as she continued, "If Nishant was so quick to represent Mr. Malhotra is the accused to you, it's highly likely he'll try to drag him down in court as well." Indrani's words hung in the air, a stark warning of the potential dangers ahead.

" what??" Sanyogita's eyes grew wider, she was naturally looking as shocked as worried for her husband , her mind racing with the implications.

Prithvi patted her hand, a sign nothing bad would come . However, he was worried about this too. His jaw clenched, his face set in a determined expression, as if ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

"Yes, Mr. Malhotra," Indrani continued, her eyes locked onto Prithvi's, "according to your wife, Nishant implicated you in Sarika's death. Can you tell me more about how and when the school authority discovered her body?"

Prithvi's expression turned grim. "It was ruled a suicide. The principal informed Sarika's family, and they...they just accepted it."

Indrani's voice took on a skeptical tone. "I see. But Nishant accused you of being involved in her death. How do you respond to that?"

Prithvi's eyes flashed with anger, his jaw clenched. "He's not my friend anymore," he spat, his voice was venomous. "He's a criminal, a liar, a...a..." He trailed off, his disgust palpable, as he struggled to contain his emotions.

Sanyogita's hand instinctively reached out, her touch on Prithvi's arm a gentle reminder of her support. Indrani's eyes never left Prithvi's face, her gaze piercing as she assessed his reaction.

Indrani's expression remained neutral, but her eyes betrayed a hint of surprise at Prithvi's outburst. "I understand your sentiment, Mr. Malhotra," she added calmly" my intention wasn't to hurt you emotionally.. I'm just doing my duty . I'm guessing all those probabilities which can come when the case will reopen permission from the court "

Sanyogita looked at Prithvi and she assured him through the gesture of eyes.

Indrani continues with a professional tone "But we need to focus on the facts. Can you tell me more about your relationship with Sarika? Did you have any interactions with her before her death?"

Prithvi took a deep breath, composing himself. " She was a newcomer . Junior officer mine . I barely knew her."

Indrani's gaze shifted to Sanyogita " what exactly does Nishant say, Mrs Malhotra?"

Sanyogita's voice trembled. "He said she was so obsessed with Prithvi , that she drove him and Prithvi used her for his benefit...later she didn't find any way of escape and ended up killing herself ."

Prithvi's face twisted in anguish, his eyes pleading with Sanyogita to believe him. "That's not true. It's a lie ."

Sanyogita's voice rang out, firm and resolute, her faith in Prithvi unwavering. "Yes I do! I believe you're innocent"

Prithvi's eyes locked onto Sanyogita's, his gaze desperate. "Sanyogita, I swear on our relationship, in our life together, I never hurt Sarika. I don't know what Nishant's motives are, but he's manipulating the truth."

Indrani's voice cut through the tension as watched a bond of trust and understanding between the couple like she never had seen before . "We need to investigate this further. I'll look into Sarika's background, her relationships, and see if we can find any evidence to support or refute Nishant's claims."

"Anyway, I would like to hear everything about the incident which Nishant represented to your wife, "

"Okay " Prithvi nodded as he took a deep breath, his words tumbling out in a rush. "I told you everything to my wife and also about my past, about Nishant's betrayal. I have nothing to hide."

Indrani's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with connections. "I understand, Mr Malhotra. You're innocent. Nishant's trying to frame you, but we'll get to the bottom of this."

Indrani nodded to her secretary, who promptly began transcribing Prithvi's statements into a writing pad.

Indrani continued, her voice steady and professional. "Thank you, Mr. Malhotra. Our first step is to appeal to the court and await their approval. You mentioned that there was no investigation into Miss Janvi's case. We'll need to travel to Delhi to reopen the FIR at the police station."

She paused, her eyes locked onto Sanyogita's . "Can you tell me more about your sister's college? Which institution did she attend, and what was her relationship with Nishant?"

Her eyes fluttered closed as her mind racing back to the past. "My sister, Janvi...she studied at St. Stephan's College, North Delhi . She was a bright student, and Nishant was her classmate "

Indrani's eyes sparkled with determination as she nodded thoughtfully. "I see. We'll scrutinize the college records, interview their friends and professors. Every detail, no matter how minute, counts in a case like this."

She turned to Sanyogita, her voice gentle yet probing. "Mrs. Malhotra, I'd like to speak with Janvi's batchmates. Are you still in touch with any of them? Perhaps someone who might be able to shed light on the circumstances surrounding her death?"

Sanyogita's face fell, her shoulders sagging as she shook her head. "Among Di's friends, I only knew two girls. One, Rhea, now lives in Thane, and the other, Shruti, is in Nagpur. I've lost touch with the rest."

Prithvi, who had been quietly observing the conversation, spoke up, his voice confident and assured. "Don't worry, I'll take care of this. The DIG of that district is a close acquaintance of mine. As a businessman, I've had dealings with him in the past. I'm sure he'll be willing to help us obtain the details of all the batches from that period."

Sanyogita's face brightened, a faint smile spreading across her face as she nodded, her eyes filled with gratitude.

Indrani's expression turned thoughtful, nodding in agreement. "That's a great lead, Mr. Malhotra. Your connections could be invaluable in this case.DIG even helped us to reopen the case . But I’m just thinking , how many of the batch mates will come to help us"

Sanyogita's gaze remained fixed on Indrani, her words replaying in her mind like a haunting refrain. She had never considered the challenges of pursuing justice in a rape case, the way people often turned a blind eye.

Prithvi, sensing his wife's distress, was already thinking ahead, his mind racing with strategies to support her. Indrani, observing the weight of the moment, continued, her voice laced with empathy.

"It's a harsh reality, but many people ignore rape cases after initial outrage. Every morning, our hearts ache as we read about such atrocities in the newspapers. Yet, few people are willing to help the victims. We need to find those rare individuals who will courageously share their memories in court, no matter how painful."

Advocate Indrani Jaiswal's words hung in the air, a poignant reminder of the difficulties ahead. Sanyogita's eyes welled up with tears, her face a reflection of her inner turmoil. Prithvi's jaw clenched, his determination evident.

"Alright, Miss Jaiswal, I'll go and request their assistance in this matter," Sanyogita said finally, her voice firm and resolute, after carefully weighing the needs of the case.

Prithvi looked at Sanyogita, his eyes searching for a glimpse of her thoughts. He wanted to ask her about her decision, but realizing they were still in Indrani's office, he thought it best to wait until they were alone. He nodded silently, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern.