For Her Honour- PreRish FF (Teaser on pg 10) - Page 4

Wonderful story! Do continue soon.

great update. your story is progressing lovely & your writing ability is great. p.s really love your version of kukki, the one on screen seems too...annoying not to mention older then what she should be. your P is also better then the reel version. really looking forward to reading more.

Hey loved the storyline.. nice build up... Beautifully written... Loving the shaping of characters.. please continue soon.. eagerly waiting to read. Thank you !!

FOUR

Prerna dialed the number she had been staring at for the past hour.

"Hello?" came a feminine, husky voice. It was sultry and Prerna envisioned a beautiful seductress behind that voice. A dusky femme fatale with luxuries of the world surrounding her.

A mysterious dramatis persona. And yet her voice felt practiced.

"Prerna here," she replied. She did not know where she was making the right choice here but she had to confront this woman. Whether she was a foe or a friend, she had to be dealt with.

Quickly. Prerna could not risk any more enemies than she already had. Though Mr. Bajaj was very influential and had connections all across the globe, Basus had allies of their own. The Jindhals, Sens, and Mathurs were few of their powerful friends.

But how many would stick with the Basus in their time of need, only time would tell.

"I know," the woman replied.

"Who are you?" Prerna questioned. Though she didn't expect that the woman would tell her.

"An enemy of the Basus," the woman replied, casually.

"Well, I can see that. Someone bought six percent shares of a subsidiary of the Basu publications a few days ago, I believe that was you," Prerna retorted.

She was having all the subsidiaries of Basus carefully watched.

The woman gave a short laugh, "Smart woman. Keeping tabs on the enemy and trying to do a background check on me. Well, one can never be sorry for being cautious. Well, your days of donning and flying dupattas and soulmate games are gone, Prerna Sharma."

To say that Prerna was shocked would be a gross understatement. She almost dropped her phone to the ground.

This woman knew more that Prerna had originally thought.

If that was the case, then either that woman was either having all of them watched for a long time or she was someone familiar.

That thought of someone keeping tabs on her and watching her every move for 9 years made Prerna feel eerie and vulnerable. It made her feel incredibly exposed.

"Okay, cut the chase. Who the hell are you? This number is registered to some Viraj Kashyap. And that is a fake alias."

"Patience, Prerna. All good things come to those who wait for it. You will know soon enough. But not yet," the woman shot back.

This woman was playing with her. Prerna felt like a cat chasing a light beam.

"How can I trust you if I don't know you?"

"You can't but I'll keep providing valuable information to you. Like the name of the mole in your company."

"Who is it?"

"Your HR, Ruchit Jain. He was paid handsomely for his treachery."

"When will we meet?"

"I will show myself to you in the party," the woman said, assuredly.

"What party?"

"The party the Basus are throwing for winning that deal," the woman promised. "Till then, Prerna, better keep your own counsel."

She hung up. She picked and inspected the photograph on her desk.

It was a photograph of Anurag and Komolika with their daughter. They looked happy.

Komolika's daughter got to live, to grow up while hers didn't. How could destiny be so cruel?

There was a strange feeling in her chest. A sudden ache. She was going to face Anurag again. The man she had once sworn herself to. The man she had loved with everything she had. The man she once wanted to start a family with, grow old with. Spend every waking moment of her life with.

The sensation grew louder and Prerna's heart constricted as she recalled some sweet memories that were now bitter. Their first meeting in college, the Durga puja, the holi, their marriage, the birth of Sneha. All those memories kept their onslaught on her.

Her heartbeat grew erratic, her breaths became shallow. She was having trouble breathing. her heart beat too fast, the world moved too fast. It was too much. The noises in her head, the light, the pain, the anger coursing through her veins. the rage, the agony. Hot angry tears spilled from her eyes.

She tried to get up but she stumbled and fell on the floor, her back pressed against her desk, hers legs sprawled in front of her, her hands shaking.

Her head spun and she threw back her head, losing consciousness.

She heard urgent footsteps.

"Prerna," someone called out to her urgently.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rishabh had decided to surprise Prerna and Kukki and decided to go to Kolkata earlier than planned.

The moment he landed, he had an unnerving feeling that something was wrong. Or it was going to be. Even in the mansion, he couldn't shake off that feeling. So he decided to visit Prerna. He hadn't talked to her in the past couple of days and he, unsurprisingly, had missed her.

When he entered Prerna's office, the sight that greeted him was shocking and worrying.

Prerna was half lying in front of him, her back against her desk, her eyes were half open and her hands were shaking.

She had most probably forgotten to take her stress relieving pills or something had happened.

He cursed himself for letting her go alone.

He rushed to her and knelt in front of her.

"Prerna," he said, urgently. He shook her to bring to full consciousness. Her eyes had that same haunted empty look that once kept him awake for nights.

He cupped her right cheek with his right hand.

"Prerna," he whispered. She finally looked at him, her eyes were terrified.

"Can't breathe," she croaked out and her breathing grew even more shallow as if she was struggling.

It wasn't the first time.

He knew what he had to.

He held her hands together until their trembling ceased and then hugged her.

She gripped him tightly. Her fingers literally digging into his back, her face buried into the crook of his neck. They stayed that way until she finally calmed down. Him holding her, like he had done always.

After a couple of minutes, they finally drew back.

He got up and offered her his hand. She took it and he pulled her to her feet.

"You should go home. Get some rest," he urged her gently. "I'll take it from here."

"Come with me," she whispered. She looked at him pleadingly. "Please."

He sighed and nodded.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Author's Note

I know this isn't a good enough chapter. I've just had a lot of things on my mind.

I'll upload a proper chapter tomorrow.

Lots of love,

Aria

Aria. It's an lovely update! Where have you been!! Hope you are fine!

L

V

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D

I

T

!

The unknown enemy of Basus is keeping tabs on everyone for many years.

Prerna is still haunted by her past. It's painful to see her so stressed.

Good that Bajaj is back here early and I am sure he will take care of everything just like he took care of her now.

Nice update. Please continue soon.

another great update.

FIVE

Prerna was nervous. Rishabh could sense her nervousness and anxiety rolling off of her in waves. The care ride was silent and tensed. Prerna kept tapping her foot and glancing outside from the dark tinted windows. It was late evening so it was not easy for her to see where they exactly were and how much time would it take for them to reach their destination.

Rishabh wanted to comfort her and tell her that they don't have to go but he stopped himself. She wanted to come. It was her decision and she would have to face whatever lies ahead by herself. He would support her but she had to do this herself. She made a choice and now she will face the consequences. Good or bad, by herself. There was only so much he could do.

This was her fight.

So he bit back his concern and asked, "Anxious?"

"Not at all," she retorted, a little too fast. She was desperately trying to appear nonchalant and by the fact that they were on their way to Basu Badi. They had received an invitation from the Basu family themselves. It was a clear indication that they knew that Rishabh and Prerna were back and that they wanted them to come to the party they were throwing in the honour of Mr. and Mrs. Basu's 45th marriage anniversary. It wasn't just an invitation but also a threat. The Basus were warning them that they weren't intimidated by Bajaj family. And Anurag's little signed note was a clear indication that what Rishabh was right.

Prerna had been in a silent frenzy the entire evening. Two days ago she had fainted in the office and now she was walking into the hell known as Basu Badi. Rishabh wondered if she regretted her decision.

He arched an eyebrow and gave her a side look that said that he didn't buy her reply.

She sighed and looked at her lap before meeting his gaze. "I am a little anxious."

He nodded, "Don't let them intimidate you. That's what they do, that's what they've always done. Intimidate people, crush their wills, humiliate them just because they can. Making other people feel worthless is their pastime. And people call me the devil and them the saints."

His tone was bitter and his eyes dark. He knew fully well what the Basus were capable of. Their cruelty knew no bounds. He had suffered it first hand. He had waited to give it to them. And now he will. He will strike such a blow that their hearts will be filled with dread. They would beg for mercy but he won't grant it. He will crush their wills, snatch everything dear to them and drag them through hell. There was a hurricane in him that he had leashed for more than 2 decades. Now, he will unleash it and ravage their souls. He will return the pain they inflicted upon him with interest. He was ready to return the favor.

He was so lost in the thought that he didn't realize the car stopping in front of Basu Badi.

Prerna was watching him carefully, her eyes worried. He gave her a reassuring smile.

"Ready to face the hyenas Ms. Sharma?" he asked, amused.

She smiled back, "Yes, Mr. Bajaj."

Rishabh and Prerna entered the threshold of Basu Badi together. it almost felt symbolic. Their entering the enemy's territory together. It was almost poetic. Basu Badi was filled with people of high end society of Kolkata. Well, the crabs of the high end society that worshiped the Basus and kissed their assess. Rishabh felt a deep loathing for these people. These people were rotten from inside. No will of their own. Spineless. Living an extravagant lifestyle, spending the hard earned money of their ancestors. He could see that this party was dead already. His gaze was sharp as he picked out the old money. Most of them were old money. Pathetic creatures.

Anurag Basu was standing in the middle of the dance floor, his family for close to him. He was welcoming everyone for congratulating his parents. On his right side was his wife, Komolika.

Prerna who stood next to him, stiffened. They were away from the crowd, waiting for the fawning crowd to disperse. RIshabh had to admit. He had missed junior Basu and his unending self righteousness. The Basus were as always dressed in tacky colors that hurt his eyes.

Someone should teach these people to dress.

Finally after what felt like an eternity, the crowd dispersed, leaving Mohini Basu, her daughter Nivedita Basu and Moloy Basu's younger niece Varuna.

He turned to look at Prerna, his eyes twinkled with dark humor, "Let's go wish them, shall we?"

Prerna nodded and they went forward to greet them.

The Basu ladies' faces contorted with anger as they saw them coming towards them.

Rishabh and Prerna sauntered towards them at a normal pace, Rishabh's hand lightly touching Prerna's waist.

Nivedita Basu was first one to open her mouth.

"Prerna," she drawled. "I didn't think you'd be here. Looks like you have no......"

Prerna was quick to cut her off, "Do you really have to speak in monosyllable? Make it quick. We are busy people and unlike others, we have to work to do." Prerna and Rishabh both flashed her a quick smirk. Oh, how much he had missed putting the Basus in their places. This was going to be fun.

Nivedita's face looked quite dramatic, given the amount of makeup she had caked on, her face was red. But she kept her temper in check, her cousin's hand was on her arm, giving her the much needed support. It was certain that she was shocked that someone, especially Prerna had put her in her place.

Nivedita was supposed to be a smart woman, she should have kept her mouth shut. She said nothing to Rishabh and turned her attention back to Prerna, "Welcome, Mrs. Bajaj. Oh, my bad. You're not married, are you?"

She had the galls to smirk.

Prerna was quick to reply , "Congratulations on winning that Mishra assignment, Mrs. Sengupta. Oh, my bad. You don't work anymore, do you? You're just a housewife. You must have a lot of free time. A hobby would do you good, might I suggest, Mrs. Sengupta." She emphasized on Mrs. Sengupta. She had touched a nerve but this time, Nivedita kept her mouth shut.

But Mohini Basu was not the one to take the cue. She jabbed a finger at Rishabh, "Listen, you-" This time, Rishabh cut her off, "Congratulations on your marriage anniversary, Mrs. Basu. You're a very lucky woman. Mr. Basu is truly a man of virtues. Particularly patience and perseverance. Because how a man could put up with you for 45 years is beyond me. Truly commendable. If I were him, I would've thrown myself from the empire state building after the first two months. It's in USA, by the way before you boast of owning it. You Basus do have a habit of claiming other people's properties. Now if you'll excuse us."

Without waiting for their replies, he whisked Prerna in the other direction where Anurag Basu stood with his wife.

It was their turn to be obliterated.

Rishabh and Anurag leveled each other coolly whereas Komolika was glaring at Prerna who was smirking back at her.

After a few seconds, Anurag spoke to Komolika, "Where are my manners?"

"You have none left," Rishabh replied, coolly. "All due credit to your wife, I suppose."

Anurag's stiffened, "Let's have a chat Mr. Bajaj. Man to man."

"I agree with you Mr. Basu. But a slight correction. Let's have a chat. Man to mama's boy." He smiled, brightly at him. A smile sharp enough to cut diamonds.

Anurag Basu pressed his lips in contempt and steered him away from the prying crowd and eavesdropping ears, leaving the women.

Prerna assured Rishabh with a smile. He nodded back and followed Anurag to the back.

On his way, Rishabh picked up a glass of scotch. It tasted bland. Gods, these people have no taste. No class. They went to the secluded spot of the hall and stood there.

Rishabh spoke up first, "You drink?"

Anurag shook his head, "No."

Rishabh fake sighed, "Given your series of failures, I wish you were drinking. It might have been a little helpful to put the blame of your stupidity on alcohol."

Anurag tried to ignore the sting of his words and replied, "I wish I could say it's good to see you but it's not."

"Well, that's a shame because I am really glad to see you. I've missed you. you and your self- righteous bulls**t. How the mighty have fallen."

"I don't know what you mean. Despite the setbacks, Basu publications is thriving and blooming. "

"You don't know anything useful, ever, Mr. Basu. I thought that was understood. But I'll let you in on a little secret. The Mishra assignment that you think you won is actually with me. I'm going to build a better housing society on that land."

"That's impossible. Mr. Mishra is a man of honor. He would never betray me. he can't be bought," Anurag replied, agitated.

"Anyone can be bought. Besides, businesses don't run on honor," Rishabh shook his head in fake regret. "I wish you'd done your homework, Mr. Basu. Because we both know, you don't have what it takes to be a businessman."

"Ruthlessness," Anurag scoffed. His eyes were wild and full of fury.

"Brains, junior Basu, brains. And it's a shame that your mommy and daddy can't buy it for you."

"I don't know what you're doing Mr. Bajaj but at the end you won't enjoy it," Anurag threatened him.

Rishabh chuckled, "I believe it's called trolling. And right now I'm enjoying myself, immensely."

'It's good to see you, Komolika," Prerna smirked at the woman standing in front of her. "Nice perfume. Cheap but it suits you. What is it? The stench of desperation? The stench of slu**ness?"

Komolika tried to control her fury and smirked back at her, "Prerna, how do you like Basu Badi? I just had it renovated."

Prerna pretended to look around, "It looks the same as always. Like a brothel belonging to 1800s Kolkata. And it makes sense, given that you're here."

Komolika gave her a tight smile, "Nice gown? Did Bajaj buy it for you?"

"It's Versace. You know it's a shame. You Basu women have so much money and no style sense at all. All tacky colors and cheap looking expensive clothes. Well, money can't buy class, can it now?"

Saying this, she turned on her heel and left Komolika, seething with anger. Steam was practically blowing out of her ears.

She smirked to herself and went to find Mr. Bajaj only to run into Raakhi, Anurag;s older cousin. The only non vile Basu out of the whole lot. And though they had only met on two occasions and never talked, Prerna genuinely liked her though she felt sorry for her because Raakhi was a divorcee and often drunk. But this was a rarity, that today she was sober.

"I'm sorry," Prerna said, genuinely because there was a stain on Raakhi's blouse due to to split drink.

"It's okay," Raakhi said and left. "I'll just go and change."

Something about her voice stopped Prerna dead in her tracks. The voice was oddly familiar, that husk.

She had heard it somewhere.

Heheheh!! Mr Bajaj and Ms Sharma are giving it back to the Basus and how 😈😎

They are not together but they are truly a power couple

Was Rakhi the mysterious woman who had called Prerna? 😲