PriVeer Story Circle- Season 2 (Last Updated 07.07.17)

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twerping

@twerping

Sparkler

+ 7

Posted: 8 years ago

(Image courtesy cute-aly)

Welcome to the second instalment of the Story Circle!

Who knew that the story telling bug would bite us so hard!?! And now it is already time for a second season of the PriVeer story circle! So PriVeerians, gather around once more and let the inspiration flow!

What happens next is something we all most definitely need to know!

We've stayed with them through the ups and downs, twists and turns, that these two souls have led us on.

Now it is the time for the story to begin once more... who knows now which direction these two will go?

Just to get the formalities out of the way, I present before you:

RULES

1. Sequence of writers. This is more of a rough guideline. If you feel inspired after a particular update, don't hesitate to state that in the thread. Once you've announced that you will be continuing from the last post, go ahead and write and post your update.

2. Word Count. The update must be of minimum 100 words.

3. Continuity. The story should have some continuity so please try to keep the previous poster's story line in mind while writing.

4. Shipping. We shall begin with a single shipping. So, for now it is PriVeer. If after a few rounds, we wish to change ships, then we can decide on that and start with a new pair.

5. Passing a round- In case, you want to pass a round because you have to leave but the one after you is online, do leave a message in the thread.

Edited by twerping - 8 years ago

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Frequent Posters

twerping

@twerping

Sparkler

+ 7

Posted: 8 years ago

List of writers

1. twerping

2. -Sarcy-

3. ThatNarcissist

4. AngelicTomboy

5. emerald39

6. SRKian

7. Annika_Ishqbaaz

8. CupcakeLover99

9. preity_d

10. RishuDarling

11. fizywizy-woo

12. Immaturebookie

13. Tahiti-1

14. dimaag

15. -shibani-

Feel free to drop a PM in case you wish to join in.

-ARTWORK-

1. cute-aly

2. AngelicTomboy

(Images courtesy AngelicTomboy)

Edited by twerping - 8 years ago

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twerping

@twerping

Sparkler

+ 7

Posted: 8 years ago

(Image courtesy cute-aly)

Season 1 index

Season 2- Index

1. First post- RishuDarling

2. Second post- -Sarcy-

3. Third post- -Sarcy-

4. Fourth post- -Sarcy-

5. Fifth post- Tahiti-1

6. Sixth post- dimaag

7. Seventh post- RishuDarling

8. Eighth post - -Sarcy-

9. Ninth post- RishuDarling

10.Tenth post- twerping

11. Eleventh post - emerald39

12. Twelfth post- -Sarcy-

13. Thirteenth post- -Sarcy-

14. Fourteenth post- -Sarcy-

15. Fifteenth post- -Sarcy-

16. Sixteenth post- RishuDarling

Edited by twerping - 8 years ago

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twerping

@twerping

Sparkler

+ 7

Posted: 8 years ago

(Image courtesy cute-aly)
STORY SO FAR...

Click to know what has happened previously in this story...

The Lunch Date ~ A taste of jealousy on the side ~

"One super deluxe chocolate milkshake, a veggie burger, mozzarella sticks with hot sauce and extra large fries.. Or no.. Uhm.. Make that a normal size fries and a salad please. I am dieting you know, for the wedding outfits and all.." Soumya winked to the girls Nisha and Neha.

The girls smiled politely. Secretly, they craved for all these tasty fatty snacks as well, but they just ordered a salad and a diet coke, caring for their appearances too much. They admired Soumya for her I don't care, I eat what I want'-attitude.

They seemed like nice girls, but Priyanka did not like the fact that she sat next tohim. She being Nisha. Him being no other than Ranveer. The two of them seem to have a great connection. They understood each other's jokes and could finish each other's sentences. How annoying! And how rude! Do they not realise there are people at the table!'

Priyanka looked around as she waited for her caramel ice coffee with chocolate sprinklers and french fries to arrive. She sat at the top of the table. At her left sat Dev, with next to him the stunning Nisha. Ranveer was stuck like glue to her. The latter two seemed not be aware of anyone else at the table.

Across of Ranveer sat Soumya, then Rehaan, with next to him Neha. She looked well rested after taking a power nap. A beauty sleep was not required in her case. She looked absolutely beautiful. Dev and Neha seemed to have instantly connected as well. The fact that they sat across each other and got a long so well, did not bother Priyanka at all.

Priyanka was trying very hard to ignore them, but without success. God.. Does she ever stop laughing? I didn't know he was that funny! Wonder where all the humor goes to when he is talking to me!'

Unknowingly, she made a face which clearly showed her mocking Nisha and showed Priyanka's annoyance. Everyone else at the table did not notice, being preoccupied in their conversations. Or almost everyone...

Ranveer had caught almost her every expression. It came natural to him to spy undercover and notice every little detail of the subject of his suspicion. Only now, suspicion had made way for admiration. Or dare he even say affection? Whatever it was, the person of his interest was sitting right there, perfectly at that spot where he could watch her effortlessly. Priyanka was the one who dominated his mind and he enjoyed intensely that she was affected by him. A spark of hope made him believe she also felt that chemistry between them.

After lunch, the girls went to powder their nose. Soumya was contemplating whether to take a dessert to go, while Rehaan stared at her in admiration. Dev went to settle the bill.

Ranveer got up, only to come sit next to her. "What's wrong Miss Oberoi? You did not seem to enjoy the food much. By the way.. Fries, chocolate shake? Should you not lay off the junk food? After all, you too have to fit in your wedding dress right?"

Priyanka looked at him. Her eyes piercing right through him like a sharp weapon. Finally, I have his attention and this is what he says to me?!' She decided to leave him in the dark regarding the wedding and the engagement to Dev. It was none of his business!

"I see you are quite the comedian? Nisha was laughing nonstop. You should try your jokes on others too sometimes. Who knows, people might actually warm up to you."

"I would say, things are heating up pretty well between us, not?"

She blushed heavily. How dare he say that? He was right, but the audacity to bluntly say that to her! She thought about emptying her leftover shake right in his lap. That would cool him off! But a familiar voice caught her attention. And not only hers...

"So beautiful ladies, don't forget. You are both invited to my Amazing Sizzling Christmas Party. It will be THE event of the year! I will text you all the details and.. Don't be a stranger.. Just text me back.." He winked at the ladies as he walked them to their table.

"Rudra!" It was his voice which brought Soumya back to reality from her deep thought whether to order a dessert or not. Seeing Rudra talking to these beautiful girls instantly pissed Soumya off and she got up. "Rudra! What are you doing here? How do you know these girls?"

"Soumya! What are you doing here? And how do you know these girls? And why have you not introduced us before? And Soumya.. Today is my cheat day.. But what is your excuse? Everyday is cheat day for you!" Rudra looked around at the table, leaving Soumya to breathe fire through her nose. His eyes rested on Rehaan for a few seconds longer than required. Rehaan was visibly uncomfortable. Dev and Ranveer were also not Rudra's favorite people but he greeted them politely, only offering his hand to the ACP.

"You all know each other? What a coincidence! We just met him on the way and guess what? We have already our first invitation for THE Christmas Event of Mumbai! We should all go!" Nisha and Neha were super excited and very impressed by Rudra's charms and appearance.

"Prinku.. Soumya.. Come.. You can come with me. I am with the car and heading home."

Ranveer watched Priyanka leave. He smiled and got up. "Ladies, gentlemen, I will take my leave now. Thanks for lunch. I have some urgent business to attend to." He left, thinking what Christmas gift to buy for her and what one should wear to THE event of the year."

Gifts for the Lady

Randhawa walked into the gift store, quickly scanning it for the section that would best serve his needs. He headed to the area where crystal pieces decked with Christmas themes were on display. It didn't take him long to select one - he never really had to spend time contemplating his choices. It was a pretty glass jar, lightly filled with confetti and decorated with a cute little setup. There was a little house within, with a snowman and Christmas tree beside it. There were also five tiny vials, with pieces of paper within, scattered in the snow around the house. The delicate piece reminded him very much of the lady he had chosen it for.

The sales person at the counter explained the purpose of the vials, as Ranveer had already figured. The piece of paper contained in each vial allowed you to scribble a message for the person you wanted to gift it to. Randhawa thanked the lady and paid for the gift. He decided to pack it himself instead of using the store-bought wrapping.

As he headed out, he passed by a jewellery store and decided to take a quick look within. He found the accessories section and, on request, was shown the best designs in brooches. His gaze landed on one that had a fine filigree of flowers interspersed with stars, and right in the center of it were the initials PRS. Ranveer was amazed at his luck! Not only was the brooch a design that he instantly liked but it had just the right initials. While it might be a bold gift for Miss Oberoi considering the fact that they hadn't really discussed their relationship status and nor had he officially asked her out, but it would be worth seeing the adorable blush stain her cheeks when she realised what it meant. It was time that the distraction named Dev was pushed aside. He quickly purchased the brooch and walked out with a smile on his face.

His cell buzzed as he got into the car.

"Ranvi, it's me!" exclaimed an excited Nisha from the other end.

"Yes, Nishu, what's up?" He queried.

"With whom are you going to the Christmas ball?"

"Huh?"

"Rudr's party," she clarified. "He mentioned each of us needs to get a date along."

"Oh!" Would he need to ask Miss Oberoi now?

"So we're going together!" Nisha said gleefully.

"What?!" Ranveer was taken aback at Nisha's sudden announcement.

His surprise didn't go unnoticed and sensing something fishy, Nisha asked, "You're going with someone?"

"Erm, actually..." he began but was interrupted by Nisha.

"Ranveer Singh Randhawa, there's a secret girlfriend out there?" She asked, incredulous. "Details! Now!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Relax, Nishu," he replied. "You're reading way too much here. There's no girlfriend. I was just suprised because I might have to give the party a miss. Something urgent has come up." He was lying through his teeth and he didn't care. There was no way he was going to discuss his personal life with anyone at this point. Not even Nisha.

"Quit being boring, Randhawa," she replied wryly. "You're coming to the party and since you don't have anyone else to go along with, we're going together."

"You're still the tyrant I remember from college," he chuckled, before agreeing and disconnecting the call.

A Date for Priyanka

Priyanka rummaged through her entire wardrobe to find the outfit that would be perfect for the Christmas ball. She had lehengas and shararas, salwar suits and dresses, but nothing that seemed to be fit for the occasion. Finally, after a lot of back and forth, she spotted a dress that left her elated. A pretty black dress, the perfect concoction of satin and lace. As Priyanka didn't favour revealing a lot of skin, the dress had a satin bodice, layered with lace extending to the sleeves, and a long skirt flowing to the ankles. She smiled, happy that she would look her best today.

"That is so beautiful!"

Priyanka looked up to see an awed Soumya walk into her room. "Thanks," she replied, the smile still lingering on her face.

"Are you wearing that to the ball?" Soumya queried.

Priyanka nodded, "What about you?"

"I might go for red," Soumya laughed. "Though I must say, your date is going to be mesmerized tonight!"

"Date?" Priyanka asked, confused.

"Of course! Didn't Rudr tell you that you're supposed to bring your date along?" Soumya asked her.

"That's the worst part about attending this ball," Priyanka muttered under her breath.

"Priyanka?"

"Yeah, he did."

"Great! So, who are you bringing along?" Soumya asked, the teasing evident in her tone.

The face of a certain arrogant ACP flashed before her eyes, but Priyanka pushed the thought aside. There was no way she was going to ask that insufferable man. Though if he asked, that was a different story.

Soumya was looking at her expectantly, so Priyanka decided to just be vague, "Let that be a surprise."

Soumya raised a brow at that and just said, "Nice," the stress on the 'I' a little too much.

Priyanka laughed. "What about you?"

"I'm going with Rehaan, of course. Neha is going with Dev, and Nisha with ACP Ranveer," replied Soumya, her words wiping the smile off Priyanka's face.

Soumya's cell buzzed and she excused herself, leaving a stunned Priyanka in her wake.

If she were honest with herself, Priyanka was hurt and annoyed. She had expected either Dev or the ACP to ask her to the ball, especially considering the fact that the duo had practically been competing with each other for her attention in the past few days whenever they were together. Priyanka could be naive but she wasn't blind. But now that both men had cast her aside in pursuit of prettier ladies, Priyanka was left with the onerous task of finding herself a date.

She sighed. Suddenly, she wasn't as enthusiastic about going to the ball anymore. She fell back on the bed and lay staring at the ceiling as her thoughts continued to stray. Sometimes, she truly hated the fact that she wasn't adept at social games. Striking up a conversation with a stranger was always a task to her. She always preferred to be at the sidelines during social events, automatically moving out of the radar of eligible men. Why couldn't she be like Rudr bhaiyya? Though barely two years apart, Rudr bhaiyya was a complete opposite of her. If he had to attend 10 different events during a day, he had the ability to get 10 different dates for each event. As exaggerated as it seemed, it was very much true.

"Prinku!"

"Rudr bhaiyya?" Priyanka sat up at the sound of her brother's voice.

"Prinku, Shivaay bhaiyya wants to know who are you coming to the ball with?" Rudr said as he walked into her room and sat beside her.

Priyanka was surprised at that. "Why?"

Rudr sighed, "I think he's worried you still haven't given up on Dev."

When Priyanka didn't respond, Rudr continued, "Is bhaiyya's fear justified?"

"I don't know, bhaiyya. I feel things are too complicated right now," she replied.

"Do you want to talk about it?" he asked, concern lacing his tone.

She smiled. As roguishly mischievous her brother was, he still never failed to surprise her when it came to his responsibilities. He had his own twisted way of handling them, but he never shirked them. Something not many people knew about him.

"Once I have it all clear in my head," she replied.

"Ever the secretive brat," he teased, while she responded with a laugh.

"So who are you finally bringing to the ball?"

Priyanka bit her lip, unsure how to respond. Rudr narrowed his eyes. "You don't have a date," he guessed, to her dismay.

She nodded her head.

"Prinku, you are Rudr Singh Oberoi's sister! How can you not have a date?" he asked with mock horror.

"Um, because I'm not Rudr Singh Oberoi?" She replied. That earned her a disapproving look from Rudr before he broke into laughter.

"Don't worry, Prinku. You don't have to force yourself. Just come and have fun. You have three brothers, after all, so you won't really have a dearth of dance partners," he said with a wink.

After Rudr left, Priyanka thought about the whole thing again. She didn't want to give the party a miss, but neither did she want to turn up without a date and feel pitied by the arrogant Dev or the insufferable ACP. If only she knew someone who she could ask to the ball. And then, like a bolt out of the blue, she knew!

The Christmas Ball

Ranveer and Nisha were greeted with light music and cheer as they entered the venue of the ball. The place was teeming with youngsters, the energy palpable in the atmosphere. They were handed Christmas hats at the entrance and Nisha teased Ranveer about being the most handsome Santa as the duo donned the hats.

Ranveer quickly scanned the crowd for familiar faces, or one particular lady, to be precise, but she was nowhere to be found.

"Looks like we're early," said Nisha. "I don't see the others yet."

"Tyrants are punctual?" Ranveer mocked.

"Aren't you?" She countered with a grin.

"I'm talking about you," he rolled his eyes and Nisha laughed.

They spotted Rudr at a distance, talking to a group of guys. He waved at them and then excusing himself, came over to greet them.

"Behold, the angel descends!" Rudr teased Nisha as he walked up to them. He shook hands with Ranveer and exchanged a quick hug with Nisha.

"Rudr Singh Oberoi, you're as charming as ever," she laughed.

"Charming is my second name," Rudr winked.

Ranveer observed the exchange and concluded that the younger Oberoi had no qualms about living up to his playboy reputation.

"Where are the others?" Ranveer queried.

"Dev and Riyaan are on their way and Neha and Soumya are also with them. They should be here any moment," Rudr replied, darting a quick look towards the entrance.

"Ah, they're here!" Nisha exclaimed as she waved at the group.

A quick look told Ranveer that Priyanka wasn't part of the arrived party. He had expected her to be with Dev but the twit seemed to have conveniently forgotten about her. From the corner of his eye, Ranveer saw her brothers Shivaay and Omkara in the distance. But she wasn't here. Did that mean she wasn't coming? Disappointment settled in his gut at the thought of not seeing her tonight. He decided to enquire about the reason of her absence.

"Rudr, your sister isn't joining the party? I don't see her around. Trust she's well?" Ranveer asked directly, as he didn't like to beat around the bush.

He saw Rudr's features transform as his expressions changed. Gone was the playboy and in his place was a protective brother who didn't hesitate to level him with a challenging look - one that clearly said, you might be the ACP but don't your dare mess with my baby sister. But Ranveer didn't feel affronted with his attitude. If anything, he was amused because Rudr reminded Ranveer of how protective he was of Ippy.

"You're right. Priyanka wasn't feeling particularly well today so she has excused herself. She may not be joining us tonight," replied Rudr.

A look of concern crossed Ranveer's features followed by disappointment.

He was saved the need to respond as the group joined them. Ranveer slipped away wondering what had happened to Priyanka so suddenly considering that she was perfectly fine when he'd last seen her. He pulled out his phone and dialled her number but her phone was out of reach. He tried a few more times but when he still couldn't reach her, he decided to go check on her.
***

"O, Bhaiyya!" Ranveer heard Rudr call Omkara and Shivaay and the next moment the brothers had joined him, the trio standing within earshot. Ranveer paused a moment on pure instinct.

"What's the matter, Rudy? In a place full of beautiful girls, you're seeking the company of your brothers?" Ranveer heard Shivaay tease Rudr.

"Rudr Singh Oberoi doesn't spare his precious time for all and sundry," replied Rudr haughtily.

"You sure this is about you choosing your company? Because the way I see it is you hiding from certain company," interjected Omkara.

"Very funny, O!" Rudr shot back.

Shivaay and Omkara laughed. Their teasing banter continued for a while and just when Ranveer had begun to wonder if the trio had forgotten they had a sister, Omkara mentioned her.

"Rudr, where is Prinku?"

"She wasn't very keen on attending the ball, O," Rudr replied, his voice taking on a serious note.

"Why so?" queried Shivaay.

"The usual, bhaiyya. Her aversion to social shindigs, and if that wasn't enough of a deterrent, Soumya told her that as per the theme, she needed to get a date along," Rudr explained.

So Miss Priyanka Singh Oberoi was missing from the party not because she was unwell, but because she didn't have a date. While Ranveer felt bad about her predicament, he also couldn't stop the little bubble of hope that rose within his chest at the thought of what it meant for him. For them.

"But I see Dev here and she's not with him," Ranveer heard Omkara reply.

"That means she's finally over the idiot!" Shivaay exclaimed. "You have no idea how relieved I am to hear that. Dev isn't worthy of Prinku."

Ranveer smirked. On this one point, he would happily agree with Shivaay Singh Oberoi.

"But Shivaay, she's jumped from the frying pan into the fire," Omkara said, and Ranveer sensed that he was now going to be the subject of discussion.

"She seems to be hanging out with ACP Randhawa quite a bit lately," Om added.

"ACP Ranveer Singh Randhawa?" Shivaay asked, incredulous.

"I don't trust that man, Shivaay," Omkara's voice held a note of concern.

What? Did they consider him a player or something? Mused Ranveer, rolling his eyes.

"Neither do I, O. But I trust Prinku's judgment," he heard Rudr say, to his surprise.

"Rudr?" Shivaay and Omkara said in unison.

"Bhaiyya, I really think we should let Prinku decide the course of her life. Why can't she choose her own partner?" Rudr reasoned.

"But Rudr - "

"Bhaiyya, please? At least let's give her a chance?"

Ranveer heard Shivaay sigh. "Very well," he heard the man relent, "But if things ever take a serious turn between them, the man will need to prove himself worthy of her."

"Of course!"

"Shivaay," Omkara spoke, "Don't you think that Rudr and Prinku have suddenly grown up?"

As much as Ranveer disliked the Oberois, he couldn't fault the thinking of the younger Oberois about their sister. Their concern was very much valid and justified. If he were honest with himself, given how much she had come to mean to him in the past few days, he appreciated them looking out for her.

"Prinku's here!" Shivaay said, surprised.

Ranveer felt a sudden burst of enthusiasm at that.

"What's with Prinku's sudden interest in law enforcement officers?" Omkara's voice penetrated through Ranveer's haze of happiness.

Law enforcement?

Ranveer turned around, as the brothers headed towards the entrance, and was shocked to see Priyanka walk in with none other than Shinde! Inspector Sushant Kumar Shinde!
***
Ranveer shook himself out of his stupor and looked at the duo again. Priyanka looked stunning in a flowing black silk gown and her hair tied up in a neat chignon, a few tresses dangling around her neck, while Shinde looked every bit the suave gentleman in a dapper black suit. Priyanka mentioned something, to which he flashed her a dazzling smile.

Priyanka and Shinde?! When did that happen? And was it serious? Though Shinde did have a decent repertoire of qualities to recommend him. The guy was tall, decently handsome for a woman's taste, had a good sense of humour, was intelligent and witty and had a decent rank in the police force. Ranveer didn't really see a reason as to why any girl would refuse him.

"Ranveer! Where did you disappear to?" Nisha appeared beside him and looped a hand around his arm.

"I was just checking out the place," Ranveer offered as an excuse.

"Mr. ACP, can you keep your snooping skills aside for sometime and let us enjoy the party?"

Ranveer smiled and nodded. "Let's go meet Priyanka."

***

Priyanka and Shinde were surrounded by Soumya and Neha and the girls seemed engrossed in conversation when Nisha and Ranveer approached them. Shinde was being the consummate gentleman by listening intently to their words and replying with the perfect words or phrases that told them he had their complete attention.

"Hey Priyanka," Nisha greeted as they joined them.

"Hello, Miss Oberoi. So glad to see you could make it," said Ranveer.

"Thank you," replied Priyanka as Soumya and Neha excused themselves to join their partners. "I'd like you'll to meet Sushant."

Ranveer didn't miss that Priyanka hadn't spared him a glance. So he decided to go for a direct approach.

"Fancy seeing you here, Sushant," Ranveer said with a smile to Shinde and then addressed Priyanka. "Sushant is one lucky man because his date is the prettiest woman here tonight."

Priyanka ignored his comment as she said, "I need to go find Rudr bhaiyya. Please excuse me."

Priyanka Singh Oberoi had literally looked through him as she excused herself and stalked off and Ranveer realised that this was the first time that Priyanka had showed him her Oberoi colours. The lady was upset and she wasn't going to make things easy for him.

Ranveer turned to look at Shinde and raised at brow at the wide smile on the man's face. Shinde merely shrugged in return.

Green Monsters and Dances

Dev indicated Neha to follow him as they walked outside. Soumya noticed the duo heading outside the hall and a little part of her was rather suspicious. Rudra suddenly called out to her, "Yo, you are done with your Shirley Temple? What's up? You're not your usual self" he said, raising an eyebrow. "Oh what? No, no! I am fine!" she said. He then asked "really? How come those sliders are still on your plate? You're not eating? We have mozzarella sticks and jalapeno poppers, just so you know" he said. "We have Greek frriiiees" he continued, wriggling his eyebrows. Soumya stared at him "are you trying to say that I eat too much? You want me to dump this drink on you?!" She exclaimed. "Wow, chill. I was just kidding!" He said, a bit surprised at her sudden outburst. He was going to ask Soumya something but then heard his name being called out by a girl near the bar. "Yo, if you change your mind, come to the pool table ok?" he suggested. Soumya nodded a yes and walked to where Rehaan was near the karaoke machine. Rudra shrugged and left. Soumya's eyes now searched for the duo but they were nowhere to be found. Rudra watched her from afar, taking a sip from his Pina Colada. A girl dressed in a red skirt and white top, with a Santa hat and black gloves broke his trance. She suggested he joins everyone at the dance floor and he followed suit.

"Ladies and gentleman, together we have gathered here for the party of the year by the famous hunk Rudra Oberoiii" said a girl . Everyone applauded. "Guys, as we all know, that Rudra throws amazing parties, now to spice things up even more, we will have a competition!" she exclaimed. Rudra chuckled, proud of himself for succeeding at throwing this amazing party. "We will have a dance competition! So guys, hold the hands of your dates and let get dancing!" she said.

"What?!" Priyanka exclaimed inwardly. Why this dance competition! That too with your date?! She didn't want to dance with Shinde, sure the man was pretty charming but she didn't like him like that! She also couldn't stand the idea of seeing Nisha with Ranveer. "Uff, what's her problem? Why is she here?!" she thought. All eyes were on Nisha.

Shinde asked her to dance with him, and she glanced at Ranveer who was already being dragged by Nisha. Priyanka felt a pang inside her chest, seeing Ranveer going so willingly with Nisha. Little did she know that the said man had no desire to dance with Nisha but didn't say no. Priyanka reluctantly agreed to dance with Shinde and followed him as he pulled her to the dance floor. She put her hands in his and smiled, politely that didn't reach her eyes. The music had started. Soumya with Rehaan, Priyanka with Shinde, and Ranveer with Nisha. Priyanka stole glances at Ranveer who seemed pretty focus on his dancing. She pouted. "ACP was sure getting along a little bit well with his lady friend," she bitterly thought. Ranveer would sneakily look at Priyanka and would feel a pang inside his heart, his jealously overflowing. He looked at Nisha. Two could play this game. Priyanka furrowed her eyebrows. She needed to prove that prick of an ACP his mistake. Well, she hated Nisha even more, her eyes boring a whole on Nisha's head. If looks could kill, both the partners of Priyanka and Ranveer would have been dead. Priyanka slowly moved towards Ranveer and Nisha. Ranveer's gaze moved towards Priyanka. The pang never fading. He wanted to be the one smiling at her tonight, dancing away. Priyanka stole a quick glance at Ranveer, her heart hurt, she wanted to be the one with Ranveer tonight.

She saw him smiling and felt the little green monster growing bigger. Ranveer looked at Priyanka, and found her looking at Shinder with her, a small smile on her face. He huffed and then said "you know Nishu, I am glad I came with you! It has been a long time since the two of us hung out!" Priyanka heard that. She was hurt. "Fine! Two could play this game!" she thought.

"Oh, you are so funny!" she said, stared at her quizzically and said, "I never said anything," Shinde suddenly said a bit confused. "Oh you! You are amazing at cracking jokes, unlike some people!" she said and looked at Ranveer from the corner of her eyes. Ranveer looked at Shinde. He heard Priyanka say "you know people sometimes underestimate other people. You are a gentleman and I am glad you're my date," she said and smiled softly.

Nisha was indifferent, unaware of her friend's fuming mind. He narrowed his eyes, which met with Priyanka's for a second. He saw the expression on her face, and he knew Priyanka was not happy. Princess was mad, really mad. Nisha suddenly said "Ranvi! Focus on dancing! I know how much you hate losing." "You're right Nishu. We shouldn't lose." He said, looking at the duo beside him - Priyanka and Shinde for a bit. Priyanka didn't feel like dancing. A little part of her hoped that Ranveer would come and dance with her, but this was going way off hand. Priyanka wanted to run out of the hall but she knew she couldn't budge so easily in front of that prick! So she kept dancing, unwillingly, letting her stubbornness take over. The music had finally stopped and now it was time to announce the winners. The girl making the announcement for the dance competition once again took the microphone in her hands. It was Priyanka and Shinde. The duo went to receive the prize - a little golden medal of a man and a woman dancing. Priyanka felt a lump in her throat, Shinde was not the man she wanted to hold this trophy with.

Priyanka then excused herself, leaving all confused. riyanka lied, saying that she was not feeling well and had excused herself to go to the washroom, which was located across the hallway outside the main party hall. The hallway had several doors on one side, one of which led to the pool area and the other led to the garden. Ranveer's eyes shot up at her, retreating from the party. He wanted to leave the party, even if it meant leaving Nisha. Ranveer was going to ask Nisha to excuse him when the music stopped. Ranveer - Nisha duo came second and Nisha's face was beaming. The girl was an amazing dancer, and a professional choreographer at a studio in Hollywood. To the outside world, him and Nisha might have seemed like the perfect couple, but reality - they were the perfect couple on books not reality. His eyes kept searching Priyanka, disappointed to see that she still had not come back.

Priyanka was walking down the hall, her heart thumping inside her chest because of a certain ACP. She suddenly saw Dev and Neha. She was going to approach them, but suddenly heard Neha say "It's not gonna work Dev! You know this is not going to work! Your father will never accept us!" her voice hoarse, it seemed like she was crying. Priyanka saw as Dev come close to Neha she pushed him away and exclaimed "no, this is not going to work!" "Babe, hear me out? Please?" Priyanka heard Dev say. Babe? What was going on? "You know Neha that I love you and I want to spend my life with you, not Priyanka" he said.

"Dev! Why don't you get it! I am NOT South Asian! I was ADOPTED by one! On top of that my real parents are DEAD! Why on earth would your family accept a woman like me?!" Neha exclaimed, her voice broken at this point. "Why did you do this to me Dev?! Even though you knew your parents wouldn't accept me you kept telling me that will because you will make sure they do! You were supposed to convince your parents last year knowing that they won't budge so easily! Now?!" She paused for a moment and then said, "You actually were going to get engaged to someone else" she paused, taking a breath before she exclaimed, crying "How long Dev? How long am I supposed to wait?" She pushed Dev rather harshly and he stumbled backwards. "Did you think about me?! Did you think about Priyanka? The girl you were SUPPOSED to marry?" she said. He said, "I am sorry Neha. I am so sorry. I promise I'll make everything ok " she asked "How? When?" Neha was fuming. She was angry and heartbroken. "Sweetheart, I am NOT marrying Priyanka. I never wanted to marry her but my parents kept pestering me. The wedding is off sweetie. I know I have been a coward but I promise that I will stand up for ourselves now" he said. Priyanka stared at the duo in shock. Neha and Dev were in a relationship? How come she didn't see it? How on earth did this guy manage to hide his relationship? He looked so sad, vulnerable even. She pitied him. Well, sort of. She never thought that Dev was capable of being vulnerable. Never crossed her mind.

Priyanka felt her heart dropping to her stomach. She held onto the wall for support, suddenly having a mini panic attack. Not because Dev was not in love with her but because of the thought of almost getting married to him. What would've happened if she did?! She almost ended up with that jerk face! Soumya initially had suggested that she should stalk him on FB and Instagram but she declined thinking that was way too much snooping. It probably wouldn't have helped anyway but with the help of Soumya's friend, Viraj who was like a brother to her and an excellent hacker, she could've easily found info about Dev that was hidden from the rest of the population.

She heard Neha sniffing and Dev apologizing for the umpteenth time. Priyanka looked at the duo and saw Dev hugging Neha tightly, his own eyes now shedding tears. Priyanka turned around, and slowly headed towards the hall.

Priyanka walked inside the hall, her palms sweating. She made her way straight to the bar and asked for a Virgin Mojito. Priyanka was never really into drinking, out of personal choice really. She took the first sip and breathed in and out, she knew had to clear things up with DevShe was determined. There was no reason for her to put up with him now that she knows his truth; she didn't have a reason to wait for him! Priyanka Singh Oberoi was no longer a pushover. In fact, she wanted to go up to the duo and punch the lights out of the Chhabra dude. How dare he played her?! That butt face playing with two lives! . She looked at Ranveer, he seemed to be completely in trance with Nisha. That just made her sour mood even sourer. Not even her favorite - Double Chocolate cake with Chocolate Ganache topped with Ferrero Rocher could fix it. Rudra bhaiya had ordered it especially for her, and it was now sitting on the table of food.

(side notes: I apologize if the overdo of chocolate makes anyone feel nauseous)

She saw the duo walk in hand in hand and before they made it to where everyone else was they pulled apart. They were talking amongst themselves and she had to admit that they both looked happy. The duo made it to the dance floor and Dev took her hands in his. It made sense that they were being like that on the dance floor as it wouldn't raise anyone's suspicion.

Priyanka slowly simmered down, thankful that her momentary anger didn't carry her away - punch the guy in the face. She then thought for a bit. May be Dev was just a victim in this sea of honor and fortune? She remembers what Neha had said, that Dev's family would never accept her. She felt bad. Really bad for the two. A part of her wanted to help the two but another part of her asked: what if she gets entangled in a mess? Then again, if these two got together and Dev was actually just another pawn in this game of fortune then she could prove that knuckleh**d ACP wrong. She suddenly said to herself, "that's ok," She realized two things, one: Dev and her were better off as just friends and nothing else. Second: she needed to talk to Neha up front, girl to girl. No more secrets.

Ranveer noticed Priyanka as soon as she walked in. His concern was now focused on the Oberoi girl, her face masked with worry. He wanted to know what was bothering her, be the one to make her feel that everything was going to ok. He would never force himself on Priyanka, he truly knew how to respect women. He was aware that the guy Priyanka wanted to be with was he. The woman of his dreams was right there, at the bar and there was no way he would ever lose his chance of having a happy ending.

The masked man and the lady

Ranveer walked slowly towards his lady of his dreams but was suddenly stopped by Nisha who took his arms and requested for another dance. Unwillingly he said yes because there's no point in denying as she wouldn't understand and would pressurize him to explain his reluctance. So he quickly said a "take care of Miss Oberoi" to Shinde in ears and left the Bar smilingly. Ranveer wasn't aware that a lady was watching him and his date leaving from there hand in hand after his brief interaction with Shinde. And this wasn't Miss Oberoi who was busy talking to a masked man beside her.

Masked man (M.m) : Hey pretty lady why are you alone here?

Priyanka (Pri) : Sorry but I don't think I know you. And I don't talk with unknown people.

M.m : No no its alright. It was my fault that I didn't introduce myself to the most beautiful lady of tonight .I'm Akash ,a friend of your Rudra bhaiya.

Pri : Oh I'm sorry Akash bhaiya. Its just that I'm not acquainted with my Bhaiya's friends much. And thank you for the compliments. You look quite nice yourself. But can I ask you to take your mask off? Then I can see your face too

M.m : Oh sure, why not? Don't hesitate to speak up with people around yourself. I have heard from your bro about you not enjoying well outside. I think that's why he selected this venue so that you can enjoy.

Pri : Rudra Bhaiya said this?(gets sad)

M.m :If not then you why is your glass empty Prinku?

Now this made sense. This guy also knows about her nickname. She thinks "really why and how come you have put this invisible wall in front of you that now your brothers are forced to throw parties at places where their dearest sister could enjoy and not anywhere else". Lately whatever situations be it the Gayatri Tambe case, ACP's sister, that Ashram meet and her revelation about Swetlana and now the Dev-Neha story and not to forget about a certain story of an arrogant ACP and Nisha has completely isolated her from the people. Could this be the reason which made her bhaiya concerned about her now? If her isolation is this much visible on her face that Rudra Bhaiya has noticed then what about Shivaay and Om bhaiya think of her?

The M.m now waved his hands in front of her to gain her attention and said " here take a drink this will refresh you Prinku and also help you enjoy this party, I don't know but you seem a little worried. And don't worry its not alchohol young lady". And saying so he asked for a drink which she didn't heard off earlier but she relented to his demands, thinking may be this would help her and ultimately help Rudra to enjoy.

She quickly gulped the silver liquid as soon as it was placed before her. And said " now you too take a drink Akash Bhaiya and enjoy. I will be here alone for a minute and then shall join all of you ." The M.m smilingly bided a goodbye and and left her there. He was later seen receiving a bunch of crisp 2,000 notes from an young lady standing near the wash room with a mask and who seemed to have been excused from the crowd all of a sudden . On searching that masked couple ,Shinde never found them afterwards. The masked duo were only on his list of unidentified and suspicious people but he removed that idea thinking that the Oberois are big people and live a lavish life. Its obvious that Mr. Rudra Oberoi has more friends to attend who are not in the guest list as they can surely afford can afford much more than just some additional guests. But now as he approached Prinku, he found his instincts correct. Miss Oberoi is dancing with the passersby . Shinde whispered to himself "not again yaar, phir se baatein sunni padegi mujhe". Why are the Oberois like this , he thought watching Prinku singing and dancing on Tu khich meri photo piya. He accepted the offer of becoming Priyanka's date recalling her past behaviour with everybody around her and also for enjoying a nice party away from this young new officer's instructions and scolding. But his joy tonight was short lived seeing the ACP and now he wondered what else is in. Will I be handed a transfer letter or ...He just couldn't think of the circumstances now.

The Dancing Queen

"Ranvi, wow.. You have some nice dance moves yaar. Someone's been practicing." Nisha said teasingly and smiled while she looked around.

"Oh Nishu please. I have always been an amazing dancer. I am a natural." Ranveer winked and smiled. He had to admit, he did not expect to have so much fun tonight. It had been years since he had partied and let go of his worries, as he had done some moments ago on the dance floor. He credited this to Priyanka. Although, he was not there with her as her date, she was around. Her presence was enough, for now at least. The evening had just started. All he needed to do was to claim a moment with her alone.

"Yes you are such a natural indeed. You just kept that very undercover. But it's good you came along to party and left your badge at home, ACP Ranveer Singh Randhawa. Or else I would have never known that you have such talent." Nisha smiled again. Her dear old friend had forgotten to relax and have fun. But tonight she had seen a glimpse of his former self.

"Nishu, what's up? Are you looking for somebody?"

"Yes, actually.. I haven't seen Neha for a while now. And Dev is also nowhere to be found. Look, I just quickly go powder my nose and see whether I can find her ok?"

As Ranveer finished his drink at the bar, he looked around. Scoping the area automatically, as a routined and experienced officer. He could see Shinde standing at the other side of the bar. His face seemed troubled, which made Ranveer more alert. Where is Priyanka?' he thought. And what is that commotion on the dance floor?' He heard the DJ announce the next song:

"And now a special request from that beautiful hot lady in the middle with the sexy black dress on.. Show us what you got baby!"

Black dress? Could it be...?' Ranveer could not see the dance floor very well as he heard the music start. One look at Shinde's face again, made him walk towards the dance floor and join the circle which centered a young lady, shaking her waist. As she turned around, and discovered Ranveer, her expressions changed while she sang the words especially for him. Challenging and sexy, she walked up towards him and pulled him in the center with her. The crowd was cheering her on as they all sang along:

mood aashiqana hai
subah ghar jaana hai
tune kaisa jaadu hai kiya

lamha ye suhaana hai
time nahi ganwaana hai
jeene ka mazaa le saathiya

to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo piya

Priyanka pulled out her phone to take some selfies with Ranveer. She was not the only one taking pictures. One of them was Rudra, who stopped dancing himself and took pictures of Priyanka, Soumya and of course of himself. His party would be the trending topic on social media for sure.

Ranveer was taken by surprise. Of all things, he could have never imagined this to happen. At first he just stood there. Trying to stop her initially. But as he watched her, he was quite amused actually. She looked so cute without her guards up. She looked happy, cheerful and in control. For a change, not shying away from the crowd at all, but completely comfortable. The music beats, her enthusiasm and the crowd cheering him on as well was contagious. He could no longer stand still and he danced and sang along as well:

Befikar dil hai aaj
Hai tera mujhpe raaj
Jo kahe kehne de
Baawra yeh samaj

Bhaage yaha waha
Yeh zindagi ferrari hai
Vaise he zindagi hai
Jis tarah guzari hai
Mood aashikana hai
Subah ghar jaana hai
Tune kaisa jaadu hai kiya

It had felt as if they were the only two on the dance floor. They only had eyes for each other. Priyanka's hair fell loose of her shoulders. She did not even notice it, but he did. She looked absolutely stunning. He could tell she was tipsy. Would she remember all this tomorrow? Would she curse herself for dancing with him while feeling sick from a hangover?' As he continued to finish this dance with her, he focused only on her. Wishing to remember each and every detail of her face and of this moment.

lamha ye suhaana hai
time nahi ganwaana hai
jeene ka mazaa le saathiya

to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo piya

Omkara and Shivaay watched Priyanka from a distance. Is she drunk? Prinku never drinks. Pleasantly surprised though to see their baby sister crawl out of her shell, truly let go and enjoy herself was something they had not seen for the longest time. But both kept their eyes on their beautiful sister. With all those young boys around it felt like the smartest and most natural thing to do.

Shinde knew that Priyanka would be safe with ACP Ranveer and her brothers around, he decided to look around once more. There was something which troubled him about the masked man and that lady. Why was he masked? This was no masked ball or anything like that. And who was that lady. She looked familiar. He asked the bartender if he could recall anything strange but without luck. He decided to go to the hall and check outside. In the meantime the song was still on:

khwaabon kaa town hai
raat bhi brown hai
kya huaa kuch nahi
do hi drink down hai

nashe mein hum nahi hain
ye sama nasheela hai
paani bhi peete hain
to lagta hai tequila hai

"Sushant! Hi, wait up! Have you seen Neha perhaps? I don't even know if you have met her actually. She came with Dev. Dev Chhabra. I haven't seen her for some time now and I am getting a bit worried now."

Dev Chhabra. Hearing this name, Shinde sharpened up.

"Have you tried calling her phone, Miss Nisha? I was on my way to the garden, perhaps she is there to get some fresh air."

Both walked outside and finally noticed Neha and Dev sitting on a bench together, locked in a tight intimate hug.

"Oh.. I suppose she is ok." Shinde said with a smile.

"Uhm.. Yes.. I suppose so.." Nisha was surprised by seeing the two of them so close, so soon.

"Forgive me for saying so, but was Dev Chhabra not to be engaged with Miss Oberoi?

"I really don't know what is going on here. I will talk to Neha and find out what their story is exactly. Even I am curious... Sorry for troubling you and pulling you away from the party. It's actually a nice song." Which they could hear vaguely on the background:

mood aashiqana hai
subah ghar jaana hai
tune kaisa jaadu hai kiya

lamha ye suhaana hai
time nahi ganwaana hai
jeene ka mazaa le saathiya

"No trouble at all Miss Nisha. It's my duty."

"Just Nisha is fine. So you work with Ranveer? Are you a detective? Detective Sushant?"

"Actually, it's inspector. I work in ACP Randhawa's team."

"Ah.. He is your boss.. Interesting.. It's funny.. Do you policemen always speak so formal? Even when you like someone? You know, he keeps addressing your date as Miss as well.. Do you like her? As in, like her like her?"

Shinde was surprised by her candid questions. She was absolutely beautiful. His boss had a hidden talent, which was attracting beautiful women. He smiled at her and at this thought.

to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo
to kheench mere photo piya

The song had ended and a wild loud applause resounded all the way to the garden. A new song would start soon.

"We should return to the party Miss Nisha. ACP Randhawa must be worried and looking for you."

"Yes, let's go back and see how much our dates have missed us." both smiled at each other, realizing the truth in silence.

"Arre Ladki Beautiful Kar Gayi Chull"

Priyanka sang along loudly. She was full of energy, not planning to stop anytime soon. Ranveer had no problems keeping up with her, being in such good shape. But he actually had enough of this dancing around her in circles. He thought of what he had set out to do this evening. What he wanted to tell her, what he wanted her to know. The gifts, he had selected with care. He had to take his chance. Or better yet, create a chance to be alone with her.

"Yes Sushant.. Our dates are missing us!" Nisha and Sushant could not help it but starting laughing. "If nothing happens between them soon, by God, they will need our help! But for now... Let's dance!"

Nisha pulled Sushant to the dance floor.

Time flew by and Priyanka became tired and thirsty. The rush of her (non-virgin) Mojito's were starting to wear off. They walked towards the bar.

"Two water please."

"Excuse me? I can order my own drink."

Priyanka seemed annoyed. Something she could also not understand. She had been dancing with this man for hours, having a good time. Why was she feeling annoyed all of a sudden? He had ordered her a water, it's what she wanted initially. So what could be the problem? Perhaps he could have asked me?'

"OK.. Sorry.. Cancel that. One water and the lady will order herself."

Ranveer and the bartender both looked at her now. With attitude towards Ranveer she ordered: "I would like a water.. WITH ice.. AND a slice of lemon.." She looked away and stepped back slightly, creating space between her and the bar.

The bartender gave Ranveer an understanding look and smiled. "Don't worry, men will never understand women, it is the force of nature. That will cost you lots of flowers, chocolates and gifts making up to your girlfriend." He winked at Ranveer as he handed over their drinks. Ranveer smiled silently. The idea of Priyanka being his girlfriend appealed to his imagination. Enough with the stalling. It was time and he knew it. But not here.

Just water would have been perfectly fine. And now she ended up with ice and lemon! But it was ok. She would have no voice in the morning anyway from all the singing she had done.

She noticed Shinde and Nisha dancing and having fun. Just her luck! All her dates considered her the invisible woman, did not respect her and had only eyes for women like Nisha and Neha! First Dev and now Sushant. And of course that arrogant Ranveer. Who would order something for her without asking her. Without knowing her.

Although, she had to admit.. He did order what she wanted. She had a fantastic time dancing with him. Confused on why she felt what she was feeling she decided to go home. She had enough. She would just tell her brothers that she was tired and call the driver.

"Rudi Bhaiya, I am leaving. I am feeling a bit tired. I will call for the driver."

"Prinku.. What's wrong? Are you tired? Ah but you have been dancing all night right? You have showed the world today that you are truly MY sister. Those two Oberois should change their names to Oboring. They are Bade Boring Bhaiya and Bade Baal Boring Bhaiya."

Rudra's reflexes and his brothers predictability made him duck on time to avoid two slaps against his head. Priyanka surprised all three by doing the honors while she slapped her brother gently. She smiled, hiding behind Omkara.

Shivaay proudly said "Prinku, today you have showed the world you are truly OUR sister, as he pointed towards Om and himself.

Ranveer walked up towards the Oberoi siblings. "You don't have to call the driver." He turned towards the brothers and explained Inspector Shinde and he would drop of the girls off.

Before Shivaay and Omkara could protest, Rudra stepped forward and looked Ranveer straight in the eyes, giving him his most threatening and earnest look. "She has three brothers who can take her home as well. But I trust you bring her home.. safely. If you break my trust, you leave me no choice then to break something of yours too."

"Bhaiya..! Don't worry.. I will call the driver!"

"I always keep my promises. I will personally drop her off at the mansion."

Randhawa and Nisha stepped out of the ballroom along with Shinde and Priyanka. The party continued behind them, the strains of music dying down as they reached the foyer.

"This has been such a fun night, Ranvi!" Nisha exclaimed, clinging to Ranveer's arm as they walked.

"Oh, I can't remember the last time I danced so much," he replied, glancing discreetly at Priyanka. She seemed annoyed but was veiling it perfectly.

"Oberoi parties are nothing if not unparalleled," Priyanka replied, a note of pride in her voice.

"If this one was any indication to go by, I will take your word for it," added Shinde with a grin.

Priyanka flashed him a warm smile and replied, "I'm ready to call it a night. Shall we leave?"

Before Shinde could reply, Ranveer jumped in, "I think I just promised your brother to drop you home."

"You did," she replied with an exaggerated sigh. "But it would be unfair to Nisha if I joined you two and to Sushant if he had to go alone. So it would be better to return the way we arrived - in pairs."

"I say, we switch! Ranveer can drop you home while I go with Sushant," Nisha chimed in.

"That isn't necessary," Priyanka tried to reason, but Nisha was already looping an arm around Sushant's.

"Oh, don't worry, Priyanka. As it is, I stay on the same route as Sushant so it'll only be easier for him to drop me, as opposed to going in the opposite direction to drop you." Nisha was already dragging Shinde along as she winked at Ranveer and bid him goodbye.

"See you later," Sushant waved at Priyanka before walking away with Nisha.

Ranveer stood amused, hands in the pockets of his trousers, leaning against his car, as he spotted the glower on Priyanka's face and heard her mutter something that sounded very much like, "Heights of high-handedness."

Priyanka turned around and was met with Ranveer's raised brow. She glared at him, spun on her heel and stalked off.

"Uh-oh!"

Ranveer followed her and as he caught up, he said, "Fancy the foot over the car, do we?"

"You have a problem?" She snapped, turning around.

"It isn't safe at this time of the night," he replied calmly, seeing her temper.

"Why do you care? You have no reason to concern yourself with my safety," she shot back, irritation lacing her tone.

"You are my responsibility," he simply replied.

"Why? We're not even friends. Merely acquaintances," she tossed, crossing her arms.

"Is Priyanka Singh showing her Oberoi colours?" Ranveer said in a light tone.

"Why are you surprised? I'm Miss Oberoi, after all."

Ranveer folded his arms and just stared at her. He had never seen her this mad before and he realised that she had been more hurt today than she had earlier let on. They stood there in silence, gazes locked.

After a moment, sighing, he leaned closer and reached out for her hands but she stepped back and looked away.

"I'll call my driver," she said as she began rummaging in her sling purse for her phone.

Ranveer decided to let her go. Today wasn't his day and seeing her mood, it made sense to give her some space. He knew her to be a sensitive person and he didn't want to push her. He waited in silence as she looked for her phone.

A couple minutes later she said, "I think I left my phone at the bar."

She turned and started walking in the direction of the venue when Ranveer fell in step beside her. She looked at him but before she could speak, he said, "I know you can do this by yourself but I'll just walk with you."

She nodded and they continued walking in silence. The stretch of road leading to the venue was deserted and Priyanka suddenly realised she was glad for Ranveer's quiet, steady presence by her side. After leaving from the hotel, they had ended up walking quite a bit to where Ranveer's car was parked. Now, as they headed back to get her phone, she felt ashamed for being such a tantrum-queen with him. She was surprised at her own behaviour tonight but attributed it to the series of events that had happened earlier. Particularly, the one where she had learnt of Dev and Neha's affection for each other. She had felt betrayed, and later when she saw Nisha flirting with Ranveer, it had opened a chasm of grief within her. They reached the hotel and she heard Ranveer say, "I'll wait outside. You go ahead."

She nodded and gave him a feeble smile as she said, "I'm sorry."

He wasn't surprised but just nodded in understanding.

"I have just not been myself today," she added hastily.

"We all have our days. It's okay. You needn't be embarrassed," he replied looking at her downcast face. "Now go."

She gave him a grateful smile and picking up her skirts, dashed inside.

Ranveer waited outside, leaning against the wall and gazing at the stars in the night sky. It was a pretty night and at another time, he would have used it to spend some time with Priyanka but tonight he was just glad that they wouldn't have to part on an unhealthy note. She was coming back to her normal self and he was glad of it. Seeing how upset she was earlier, he would have to talk to Nisha and ask her to tone down the flirting, even though it was harmless from her end. Though knowing Priyanka, there must be something else that was troubling her for her to react the way she had. It couldn't just be Nisha. He would talk to Priyanka on the way back and see if she was willing to speak up. He checked his watch. She had been gone almost ten minutes.

He caught movement from the corner of his eye and turned around to see Priyanka walking past him without a word. She seemed to be occupied in her phone.

He called out her name but when she didn't seem to hear it, he followed her, his legs picking up pace to close the distance between them.

"Priyanka!"

As he caught up with her, he reached for her shoulder and turned her around. She let out a startled yelp.

"Priyanka, are you okay?" He asked her gently.

"I-I'm fa-fine. You st-sta-startled me," she stuttered in reply.

That put him immediately on alert. She had lost the stutter around him a while back and if she was now stuttering again, it could mean only one thing - she was afraid.

"Priyanka," he began in soothing tones as he held her hands, "Tell me what happened."

"Na-nothing," she replied, breaking free of his grip. "I'll call a cab."

"Let's not argue, Priyanka. It isn't safe to take a cab at this hour." Especially not in your present state.

He didn't say the last part aloud but rather ushered her towards his car, despite her protests.

As he helped her get into the car, her phone slipped from her fingers and landed on the concrete outside. He bent to pick it up but she jumped and grabbed it before he could. It wasn't rocket-science for him to guess that it was the phone that was the reason for her upset.

"Did you get another threat note?" He queried, towering over her as he rested his hands over the roof of the car.

"N-na-no," she replied, averting her gaze.

He closed her door, got into the driver's seat and leaned over to fasten her seatbelt. She was startled again.

He sighed.

"You're lying, Priyanka," he said levelling her with a piercing look.

She bit her lip and looked away.

"We're not leaving till you tell me what happened inside," he told her, his voice grim with determination.

She spun her head and he saw fear in her eyes as she said, "Drive, Ranveer! Pap-please."

The plea in her voice didn't help to alleviate his worry but he turned the key in the ignition and hit the gas. He didn't prod her further but noticed that she held her phone clutched in a death grip and kept looking outside throughout the way. Traffic was light at this hour and they drove in silence till they reached the Oberoi mansion. Once they reached within the gates, Ranveer parked the car under a copse of trees at a slight distance from the mansion.

"Priyanka, tell me what happened?" He said turning towards her.

He saw her hesitating, as if struggling to decide, so he added, "If you trust me."

She bit her lip again, worrying it for a while before finally handing over the phone to him. He swiped to unlock the phone and was met with a selfie of Priyanka and himself, taken at today's party during their dance. What caught his eye, however, was not the picture but the words below it.

Roses are red, violets are blue,
Forget not princess, my eyes are on you.
Not a word will you breathe of the secrets you keep,
Else in loverboy's grief, I may see you weep.

-X

"My ph-phone was la-la-lying on the bar ca-counter when I went b-ba-back to take it," she said by way of an explanation.

"Did you ask the barman about the message?"

"I saw it aaf-after coming out."

She still seemed shaken and Ranveer decided to lighten the atmosphere.

"Who's loverboy?" He innocently asked. He saw a crimson hue tinge her cheeks. He supressed the grin forming on his lips and instead added, "Why is my picture part of the note?"

"I-I don't know. Yu-You're the de-detective. You find out," she replied.

He was impressed that she was beginning to get back to her normal, secret sassy self.

"Yes, ma'am, I will," he replied with a teasing smile. A serious note entered his tone as he added, "But you need to promise me that the next time something like this happens, you will inform me about it immediately."

She nodded.

"I'll pick you up at 10 am, we need to go over whatever you know about that night. It's time we end this game. I won't have you living in the shadow of fear every single day."

"Why? Why does it matter?" She whispered.

"Why? Because it is my job," he replied without second thoughts.

She gave him a half smile and nodded. As she turned to open the door, he held her hand and she turned around, surprised.

"As to why does it matter," he said, answering the question that he knew she really wanted an answer to, "Because I care about you."

He saw her eyes light up but she didn't say anything. Fishing into his pocket, he pulled out the tiny box of the brooch he had picked up for her earlier.

"Merry Christmas," he said, handing the box to her.

This time, she smiled and said, "Thanks. But I didn't get anything for you."

"If you choose to accept this gift, that will be enough of a present for me," he answered in reply, his smile making her heart leap in joy. At her curious look, he added, "I shall await my answer at 8 pm tomorrow. The address is inside."

"Okay," she said, surprise lacing her tone.

"Good night," he said, as she stepped out of the car, glad that she would have something else to think of tonight instead of the note.

He took a screenshot of the threat note and sent it to his phone before handing back her phone.

She wished him good night and walked away. Ranveer reversed the car and headed back to the hotel as he dialled a number. He needed answers to some questions before he could call it a night.

--
The cell phone buzzed with an incoming message notification and Shinde was quick to check it noticing the late hour. It was from Randhawa. Three words.

Svetlana is back.

***

Svetlana the Avenger

"Di, you promised me! It was the last thing I had to do. No more now! I did all you asked of me but enough is enough! All I want is to be happy and marry my girlfriend. My real girlfriend Neha!

Dev spoke to his elder sister with annoyance and impatience. What started as a quest for vengeance for the both of them, turned out to be an out of control sickening thriller his Di could not let go off. He looked at her face, lit up by the lights in the garden of the beautiful mansion. She was pretty, but the hate for the Oberoi's had made her look old and even ugly despite of her beauty.

"All I ask of you is to stay back and handle damage control. See whether the cameras are on and get the tapes. Just switch them. Steel it or bribe the watchmen, I don't care! Just get it done. And I promise you.. You will marry the woman you are in love with. Now go!!

"Prinku? You are home already? Did you have a good time? Tell me all about it. It was Jhanvi, who was waiting for the kids to return home. A mother is always worried about her children staying out late at night, but in this particular case she was happy that Priyanka had decided to go out and party along, as youngsters do. She had waited for Priyanka to hear her stories.

Priyanka had been in a hurry to go to her room and to find out what Ranveer had bought for her. He had actually taken the time and bought her gift. Her... The boring stuttering Oberoi..

"Mom, you are still awake? Yeah.. The party was fun. I enjoyed a lot. There is not much to tell.. We have been dancing. The DJ was very good. Rudra bhaya has done it again. Best party of this year for sure.

"What's that? Jhanvi pointed at the box. "Oh.. It is gift.. Uhm.. Rudra bhaya arranged that. It is like a goody bag.. A goody box..

As much as Priyanka enjoyed and appreciated Jhanvi as the concerned and involved mother she had turned into more and more, she was not in the mood for chitchat. All she wanted is to find out what was in the box. She kissed her mom goodnight and hurried upstairs to her room.

As excited as she was to open the gift, she prolonged the feeling by not opening it yet. What could it be? His voice resounded in her ears. Why did he say "If you choose to accept this gift... She accepted it when she stepped out of the car with the gift in her hands didn't she? Apparently, he is expecting some kind of answer of me tomorrow...

A feeling of uneasiness replaced her initial excitement. Why would he trick me, after all we have been through? No.. It is nothing like that.. She spoke to herself to gain courage and opened the box. It was a beautiful golden brooch with fine filigree of flowers interspersed with stars. She touched and caressed it as her fingers followed the fine soft shape of this amazing piece of jewelry. Her fingers touched and swiped over the center. She felt something she could distinguish. She walked up to her desk to admire this work of art. Priyanka would be up for the most part of the night, contemplating the gift and threat text message.

At the same time, Ranveer arrived at the venue, thinking of his Priyanka. There was no doubt on his mind. She was his, and his alone. "God Ranveer, you sound like an obsessive freak! He wondered if she would show up tomorrow evening. He had one more surprise, and one more gift up his sleeve for her.

Shinde was already waiting for him. "Shinde? You are here too? "Sir, I knew you would come here. Ranveer was lucky to have Shinde as his colleague and as a friend. "We should hurry. The party is coming to an end. Why don't you get hold of copies of all the camera footage and I will check for clues and the guest list.

"OK sir. Shinde was ready to get started but Ranveer stopped him.

"Shinde?

"Yes sir?

Ranveer was amused but still continued in a very serious tone of voice: "It might be a good idea to wipe off that lipstick from your cheek..

Shivaay was the first to notice the ACP and walked up to him. "Is everything ok? Any problems bringing Prinku home?

"No worries. No problems. Your baby sister is safe and sound. Have some faith in me. I won't let anything happen to her.

Strange enough Shivaay had no issues believing the ACP. His instincts did tell him that he would take care of his sister if this was required.

"Don't mind me asking, but why are you here? I mean, I thought you also would go home yourself.

Shivaay Singh Oberoi could have become an inspector actually, if only he would not have problems in getting his hands dirty, literally.

The case being a secret and a sensitive project, he could not reveal his true intentions of returning to the party.

"I came to check if Neha needs a ride home and whether all youngsters go home safely. We promote a don't drink and drive' policy. Once a policeman, always a policeman. He smiled and Shivaay nodded.

"Oh God! What will he think of me now? Nisha is his close friend. Maybe his girlfriend even. I mean she came as his date. It was not even a kiss. Not really. Sort of. Oh God.. Just focus on the here and now..!

Shinde was on his way to the control room, after he spoke to one of the watchmen. He had a case to solve. Who was scaring the lovely sweet Miss Oberoi? And why?

He heard some noises he could not clearly distinguish. It sounded like someone had fell on the floor. He notified Ranveer and went in alone.

"Stop right there! Identify yourself! Shinde caught someone stealing the tapes. "I said stop right there! You are under arrest!'

Shinde could not see who this man was as he had masked his face. The thief made a move to flee, Shinde tried to stop him by overpowering him, with success.

When Ranveer arrived and removed his mask, both Ranveer and Shinde were shocked that their suspicion was correct.

"DEV! DEV CHHABRA! You bloody... I knew you could not be trusted! It was Shivaay who blurted this out.

"ACP, what's going on? What did he do? Dev? What's going on dude? Rudra had so many questions.

Shivaay, Omkara and Rudra had followed Ranveer, demanding to know what the hell was going on.

Ranveer signaled to Shinde to take Dev with him, discreetly, before he turned to the OBros, especially to Omkara. Afterall, he would be able to convince Shivaay in this matter.

"Leave it to me. If I have any information worth sharing I will. Good night.

On the police station Dev was allowed to make one phone call.

"Di, Please come get me. What will happen now.

"Stop crying Dev. Just make sure you keep your mouth shut and let me handle the rest. The Chhabra's secret should remain a secret!

Dev watched the grim faces of the men standing around him. The bleak light hanging from the ceiling, cast shadows across the room. They had brought him in here and then made him sit in the cold iron chair. And then these men had surrounded him,masked by the shadows and the silence.

Di's words echoed in his head.

"Just make sure you keep your mouth shut and let me handle the rest. The Chhabra's secret should remain a secret!

He tried to calm himself down. If he had to come out of this encounter unscathed, he needed his wits about him.

Suddenly a door opened and in walked ACP Randhawa followed by Shinde. The Oberois were nowhere to be seen, noticed Dev. Only yesterday he had sat in the company of this man and had exchanged indifferent pleasantries. But right now, the ACP's eyes were cold, hard, almost impossible to read.

"Dev Chhabra, Randhawa bit out. "You want to tell us why you were stealing the tapes?

Dev focused his eyes on the floor. Keep your mouth shut.

Randhawa tapped his pen against the desk. "You want to tell us why your sister was tampering with Miss Priyanka Oberoi's phone, Mr. Dev Chhabra?

Randhawa's words acted like a jolt of electricity on Dev. His face jerked up and his eyes widened in open fear.

"My s-s-sister?! he managed to splutter out.

"Manohar Chhabra's best kept secret wasn't so very well kept after all.

Randhawa glanced at Shinde as he spoke. A muscle on Shinde's face twitched but that is all. Dev could not tell what they knew or how much, but how did they find out about his sister!

"Who have you been talking to? Dev asked. "I don't have a sister.

"Even the most well-hidden birth record has a way of leaving a trail of paperwork and we are trained hunters, Mr. Chhabra. Now if you are done asking the questions, care to answer some of ours?

Randhawa's voice was pleasant, almost as if he was chatting, at a party. Only Dev had met him before. The man didn't do 'chatting' at parties.

"I d-d-don't know what you have found out but I've done nothing wrong. Why are you holding me here!?! Saying this, he tried to get up from the chair, tired of this room, of the suffocating play of light and shadows. Two hands gripped him by the shoulders and forced him back into his seat. The situation suddenly became more real, more terrifying. The hands didn't loosen their hold on him, pressing him down, hurting him.

"Now now,Mr. Chhabra, aren't we all friends here, Randhawa stated, his voice flat. "What's this play of hide and seek between friends?

Dev gulped. Randhawa turned towards Shinde. "Don't we have Ms. Neha Bhatia's number? As friends I think it is our duty to show the contents of the tape to her. She too should know the true nature of the man she is friends with.

Dev flinched at this as if struck. Will they call Neha? What will she think if she sees the video?
"No! The word escaped him before he could stop himself. Randhawa raised an eyebrow but remained silent.

"Don't involve Neha in this. Dev rasped out.

"You are in no position to give orders to officers of the law, Mr. Chhabra, Randhawa pointed out.

Dev's petrified eyes turned from one unfriendly face to another. Where had Di led him to?! What hell was this?

"Who have you been talking to?! I don't know what you mean by my sister!? Everyone knows I and Rehaan are the only children of Manohar---

"Questions. Questions. QUESTIONS! Randhawa's voice suddenly rose, as he towered over Dev.

"Will you tell me how you are related to Svetlana Chhabra or shall I do it for you.

Dev shrank back into his seat, his terrified eyes flickering from one face to another.

"She is our sister, he said, hoping to do some damage control. "But you are mistaken if you think that I did anything wrong! Believe me! Di doesn't want the world to know of her identity and so we hide it. It's not what you think! She wants to establish herself on her own terms.

Randhawa's face slowly broke into a crooked smile. "Good to have that on record. Now shall we talk about the tapes you were trying to steal?

The world went dark for him and Dev collapsed on the floor.

Randhawa looked at Shinde who was shaking his head even as he desperately tried to choke back the smile that threatened to spill over across his face.

"What? Randhawa asked in confusion and then turned around to a guard. "Get a bucket of water. We have more questioning to do.

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

Priyanka lay swathed by layers of soft blanket as the scenes from the evening played inside her head. She couldn't remember the last time she had enjoyed herself like this. The night had been disturbing and still there were those moments---

Roses are red, violets are blue,
Forget not princess, my eyes are on you

Whose eyes?! Who was watching her? Who had taken that picture of her with the ACP? Who was sending these messages to her?

Not a word will you breathe of the secrets you keep

Priyanka breathed in sharply. Secrets! Her life was a chain of untold, unforgotten secrets, binding her to their darkness and cruelty. Dad, O Bhaiya, Lana! Her hand reached out for the brooch she had placed on the bedside table. Fingering the fine filigreed gift, she let the coolness of the metal seep into her skin.

The memory of another party rose before her.

__

"Try sex on the beach! drawled Svetlana, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Hawww! Lana! Shush now! Someone will hear! Priyanka giggled as she looked around her nervously.

"Seriously, Priyanka, you need to grow up! You're an adult now! Hey!

The last bit was shouted out to the handsome bartender.

"Get us two tequila shots! And keep them coming! Svetlana shouted out over the noise of the party.

"Here you go!

Priyanka studied the glass suspiciously. This was water. She picked it up and took a sip.

"Yuck!! The drink was like fire poured down her throat. Svetlana threw her head back with laughter.

"What is my princess doing? Tej stood next to them now, his face wearing a light smile. It was Priyanka's eighteenth birthday celebration.

"Trying tequila, Papa, she said, nervously, eyeing Svetlana who sat watching them with so much poise and ease.

"Don't go overboard now, Tej said with a warning tone though his smile didn't quite disappear. He placed his hand around Svetlana's shoulder and addressed the older woman, "Svetlana, I am trusting you with my princess here. Make sure she is alright. And then he turned around and disappeared back into the crowd.

Priyanka let out a sigh of relief and picked up the glass and gulped down the rest of the drink. As the heat made her eyes water, she turned to Svetlana who was eyeing the crowd with a thoughtful expression.

"Shall we get something else now? she asked.

"What?! Svetlana said, as if startled. The smile immediately returned however and she nodded.

"Just wait a minute. I have brought my friend along. Let me just go and get her.

By the time Svetlana had returned after finding her friend, Prinku had had two more shots of tequila, and the world was growing fuzzy around her for real.

"Ippy, meet Prinku. Prinku, meet Ippy," she introduced them.

"Ippy?" Prinku giggled, wrinkling her nose. "What a cute name! Ip hic py...Heee."

"She is a little drunk," Svetlana chuckled, noticing the extra glasses next to Prinku.

Prinku giggled again, and shrugged. "Who knew alcohol, as bad as it tastes, could be so much of fun?!"

She saw Ippy grimace. "Sounds like something one would say at Alcohol Anonymous."

Svetlana laughed. "Oh Ippy, relax. Prinku's just enjoying her new found freedom. She is finally an adult now, after all."

"Should we drive her home?" Ippy asked, and Svetlana snorted.

"Drive her home? Ippy, you are forgetting who she is. Look, her brothers are here. And so are a handful of guards. She will be taken care of," she assured Ippy.

Prinku, though, wasn't paying attention to anything but just one word of their conversation.

"Drive!" she suddenly yelled.

"Sshh," Svetlana shushed her.

"No, Lana, I am 18 now. Do you know what that means?"

"...That you can have way more drinks than you should?" Ippy suggested, still eyeing the new drink the bartender had just handed her warily.

"That...and well, I can drive now! I am an adult! Hah!" Prinku went on.

For a moment, or longer, all Priyanka heard was the fast music number playing in the background. The new girl was staring at her, her face a cross between incredulity and amusement, while Svetalana's eyes had widened rather comically.

"You know what? You are right! You should give driving a go sometime soon...I mean, who can exactly say no to a birthday girl?" Svetlana proposed with a shrug, replacing the drink in Prinku's hand with a glass of water, as if to drive her point home. Just one glass of water wasn't going to cut it if Prinku wants to be sober enough to drive, considering how much of hard liquor she had just consumed, but the Oberoi princess didn't know that, did she?

Prinku gulped the glass of water down in one go, and bit back the wave of nausea that consumed her immediately.

"Time to head back home, then," she announced, and the Prinku back then had no idea why Svetlana gave her a smirk.

"I...I don't think that's a good -" Ippy started with a nervous laughter, but Svetlana cut in

"Bring her to Om," she instructed the nearest guard, nodding towards Prinku. With that, Svetlana bid the birthday girl goodbye, and tugged Ippy along.

---

It was no surprise, therefore, that hours later, Prinku was the one behind the wheel.

"Prinku, you have to be carefuly, alright? It's pretty slippery from the rain, and "

"Bhaiya, I got it! Don't worry!" came the slightly annoyed reply. She wasn't listening to him at this point. The alcohol still left in her system, coupled with the fact that she was actually driving a car, was enough aldrenaline; Priyanka pressed her foot against the accelerator.

"Prinku -"

"O Bhaiya, I got it, na! See!" she laughed, and her brother relaxed a little seeing the empty Old Bridge road ahead of them.

And then BAM!

"BHAIYA!"

With a gasp, Prinku returned to the present. She was clutching the brooch so tightly in her hand, it was leaving a fine imprint on her palm. But that wasn't her concern now.

Ippy. She remembered her.

That was the girl she had run over.

Prinku shut her eyes, trying to remember the finer details of the accident. The girl she had hit, the face was covered in cuts and bruises, and blood...oh, so much of blood! But in her alcohol and panic-induced haze, Prinku had barely registered her face. She only remembered telling O Bhaiya that the girl had been present at the party, when they had admitted her to the hospital in an attempt to save her life.

She had refused to let herself remember the disastrous night since then, but now that she did...the memory of it baffled her.

Svetlana knew Ippy.

As if on auto-pilot, she reached for her phone with her free hand, and dialled Ranveer's number. One hand clutching the brooch, one hand on her phone, holding on to both as if her life depended on them.

"Priyanka?" His voice, and the concern laced in it, washed over her very briefly like a wave of tranquillity.

"Ranveer? We need to talk."

(CONTINUED IN THE NEXT POST. SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE.)

Edited by twerping - 8 years ago

Quote

twerping

@twerping

Sparkler

+ 7

Posted: 8 years ago

(Image courtesy cute-aly)

STORY SO FAR... #2

"How is our friend doing?" Randhawa asked as he walked back into the interrogation room.

A quick look towards Shinde was returned with an almost indiscernible shrug, his eyes conveying the irritation he felt at the man's stupidity. Dev was refusing to talk ever since he had regained consciousness, and with Randhawa out of the room, he had been trying to ease himself out of his current predicament.

"When will you let me go?" Dev asked, fidgeting with the ring on his right hand, exasperation lacing his tone.

"When you stop questioning and start answering," Randhawa replied as he came to stand before the chair that Dev occupied. Randhawa saw Dev sinking lower into the chair, uneasy due to his towering presence.

With a satisfied smirk, he continued, "Did Svetlana send you there to get the tapes?"

"Di has nothing to do with this, I told you!" Dev replied throwing his hands in the air.

"Fair. So this means that you're responsible for both - stealing the tapes and leaving the threat in Miss Priyanka Oberoi's phone," Randhawa replied coolly. "Oh, and also, knocking the security guard in the control room and leaving him to die in the back corner."

At that, the colour drained out of Dev's face.

"Tsk. Tsk, Mr. Chhabra! If you thought we wouldn't find out, you either think we're stupid or you're ridiculously naive," Randhawa stated, his voice sinisterly calm.

As Dev sat frozen in his chair, Randhawa turned to address Shinde. "Shinde, Mr. Chhabra is our guest tonight. Treat him well. After all, tomorrow will be an eventful day for him. It isn't everyday that a man's family pays him a visit at the police station. The media will be busy."

"Will do, Sir," Shinde replied.

Dev felt the panic rising within him. He couldn't have papa or mama hear any this. If the media caught wind of the story, there wouldn't be a peaceful day in his life for the foreseeable future. And di, he didn't want to think what she would do. Taking in large gulps of air, he called out, before Randhawa could walk out of the room once again.

"Wait!"

Randhawa turned, one eyebrow raised. I thought we were done, Mr. Chhabra," he replied feigning surprise.

"I wasn't speaking about this because even if I told you who asked me to steal the tapes, you wouldn't believe me," Dev said, shifting uneasily in his chair. He hoped he wasn't making a mistake by admitting what he was about to.

"Let me be the judge of that," Randhawa tossed back.

Dev nodded and after a moment's hesitation said, "Prinku - Priyanka Singh Oberoi."

To Dev's utter surprise and disappointment, Randhawa's face remained blank, devoid of any reaction. All he said was, "Because?"

Seeing the opening he wanted, Dev rushed with the explanation. "During the party today, she had received a note that said something about revealing her secrets and video leaks. She was distraught after seeing the note and begged me to help her. She wanted the tapes from her 18th birthday party, which had also taken place at the same venue as today's party. I tried to console her but she wouldn't listen. I couldn't see her cry and agreed to help."

"And now you're gifting her tears for a lifetime," Randhawa mocked, his eyes boring into Dev's.

If Dev was telling the truth and Priyanka had received two notes today, Randhawa wondered why she hadn't told him about the other one. And what could be so critical in the tapes that had Priyanka worried and desperate to seek Dev's help, of all people?

"But she didn't do anything!" Dev squirmed in his chair seeing the steely glint in Randhawa's eyes. His voice almost reduced to a whisper, he continued, "She was terrified when she received the note and needed help."

"Suppression and tampering of evidence is not nothing, Mr. Chhabra!" Randhawa slammed his hands on the arms of Dev's chair. The man flinched in response.

Despite the feeling of foreboding creeping over him, the words escaped him, "No wonder she didn't want you to know about the note. She was right, you would never understand her."

Randhawa straightened and folded his arms across his chest as he stared at Dev, unfazed.

His lack of reaction baffled Dev, making him wonder if the man even had a heart.

"Randhawa Sir?"

Randhawa turned to see one of his officers walk in.

"Yes, Salunke?"

The officer walked up to Randhawa and said, "Sir, while going through the tapes found with Mr. Chhabra, we have come across some evidence related to the Ipshita Singh murder case. You might want to take a look."

"Okay. I'll be there."

"Khan, get the paperwork sorted. Mr. Chabbra remains with us tonight."

"Bu-but I told you what you wanted to know!" Dev cried.

"Cooperate, and we keep the news under wraps. Act smart, and we unleash the media on you. Choose as you please," Randhawa stated coldly before walking out of the room with Shinde and Salunke.

***

Randhawa and Shinde walked into the computer room followed by Salunke. Two guards sat a computer station analysing the footage from the tapes that had been recovered from Dev, while a third, younger officer stood at an LCD screen, jotting down notes in a notepad.

"Akhtar?" Salunke addressed the younger officer and signalled him of their presence.

"Yes, sir. I have the footage ready," he replied gesturing towards the video paused on the LCD.

As the three officers gathered around the screen, Akhtar hit play.

The screen was filled with images of a party set at a venue that was familiar to not only Randhawa but also Shinde.

The Oberoi Grand Hotel

The party in the video was taking place at the poolside, the place teeming with youngsters while music played in the background and booze flowed aplenty. The video zoomed in on random groups of people dancing and having fun before panning to two people in conversation - one of them standing with her back to the camera. The one facing the camera was a very vivacious, very chirpy-looking 18-year old, Priyanka Singh Oberoi.

"Hah, I'm officially an adult now, Lana! I can do anything I want," Priyanka said haughtily.

"So you say. But they're mere words, chicken," the other woman drawled.

"I can act on my words," Priyanka said defiantly.

"I trust you, NOT!" Laughed the other woman.

"You dare me, Lana?"

"Tequila," the woman challenged in response.

"You know papa hates it," Priyanka sighed.

At the snap of the woman's fingers, a waiter stood beside them.

Priyanka glared at the woman but picked a glass and gulped it in one shot. The drink sent a burning trail of fire down her throat, making her gasp while the other woman laughed.

Determined, Priyanka picked up the remaining two glasses and chugged them down. A victorious glint now dancing in her eyes.

"Try sex on the beach!" the woman said next.

"Hawww! Lana! Shush now! Someone will hear! Priyanka giggled as she looked around her nervously.

The camera panned across the crowds and focused on the youngsters partying. Akhtar fast forwarded the party footage by a few minutes and then played the clip again. They camera suddenly swirled back to focus on the ladies.

"Drive!" They saw a totally tipsy Priyanka yell.

"Sshh," The woman shushed her.

"No, Lana, I am 18 now!"

The video blacked out and a few seconds later, the screen lit up to show a car driving through the woods. As the car approached closer, the camera zoomed to show an inebriated Priyanka behind the wheel while Omkara Oberoi sat in the passenger seat, engrossed in his phone. The car picked up speed as it flew through the woods. There was a muted conversation between the siblings and in the next instant, a horrified Priyanka lost control of the car and rammed into a figure. The camera zoomed on the road to focus on the figure of a girl lying in a pool of blood. A pair of hands turned the figure to reveal her face.

Ipshita Singh Randhawa

The screen went black.

Randhawa had never been one to let emotion cloud his judgement and that was why, Shinde, who was the only one in the department aware of Randhawa's relationship with Ipshita, did not see the effect of the video on his face. Though the appearance of this footage would change a lot of dynamics and also lead to the closure that they had been waiting for in the Ipshita Singh murder case, he wished that things hadn't turned out as they had. The lady had almost carved a place for herself in this tortured young man's heart. Now to think that she was the one responsible for causing the agony in the first place broke Shinde's heart. No man deserved this, and certainly, not Randhawa.

***

Priyanka was pacing back and forth in the garden, restlessly, waiting for Ranveer. He should have arrived by now. What was taking him so long when shehar explicitly told him that they needed to talk. Was he fine? On the heels of that thought, her mind procured the image of the threat she had received not long ago and she could feel fear slither down her spine.

...Not a word will you breathe of the secrets you keep,
Else in loverboy's grief, I may see you weep.

No! Nothing ccould happen to Ranveer. He could take care of himself. He would take care of himself. He was an officer, after all!

As her thoughts continued to wreck havoc on her mind and her heart continued to refuse the possibilities of an attack on Ranveer, she finally saw the man walking down the cobbled path in the garden, leading to the bench where she stood.

"Ranveer!" She gasped in relief on finally seeing him. "What took you so long?"

"Some developments in a case that I'm working on," he replied ambiguously. As he spoke, her gaze travelled over him, frantic in their scrutiny.

"You're... fine," she said.

"Shouldn't I be?" He queried.

"No, Aa-I mean, yes," she replied flustered. "Shivaay bhaiyya said that there had been an altercation between you and Dev."

"Yes, and he's been placed in custody," Ranveer replied, his tone quite matter-of-fact.

"You're going to arrest him?" The words escaped her in panic, unaware of the affect they would have on him.

Ranveer merely shrugged.

"You can't!"

His eyes narrowed, "Why not?"

"Please don't arrest him, Ranveer!" The plea in her voice annoyed him.

"What's wrong with you, Priyanka? Dev was found stealing the security tapes from the Oberoi Grand hotel and you - "

"What tapes?" She interrupted, the words coming out as a croak. The color drained from her face and she stood white as a sheet.

Ranveer folded his arms, his eyes pinning her. "I thought you would know."

"Ha-How would aa-I know?" She stammered.

"Are you sure?" He prodded. "Because Dev thinks otherwise."

She refused to meet his gaze and he saw sweat break out on her forehead despite the cool night. "I do-don't know wh-wha-what you're ta-talking about."

He held her by the shoulders and forced her to look at him. "Priyanka, what is the matter? Why are you suddenly so worried?"

She pushed away his hands and said, "Nothing is the matter. I'm fine."

"Did you receive more threats?"

"No. But you really should not arrest Dev," she said, no longer stammering but there was a slight quiver in her voice.

"Why? Why the sudden concern for Dev?" Asked Randhawa, his voice laced with irritation.

"Because I care about him," she simply replied.

"Your care doesn't exonerate him of his crime. He was found stealing security tapes from the hotel," Ranveer said, his voice hard.

"How can he steal what's his?" She asked incredulously.

At Ranveer's confused look, she continued, "He is the co-owner of the Oberoi Grand hotel along with me. It was our engagement gift from Papa. Shivaay bhaiyya isn't aware of it because he would never allow our alliance due to Dev's illegitimacy, but Papa saw how much Dev and I loved each other and so he has helped us keep our relationship under wraps for the moment."

"What about Neha Bhatia?"

"She's just a very good friend, and a foil to our relationship."

"Bravo! How interesting! Who knew Priyanka Singh Oberoi, the meek little mouse before the world, could take someone for such a royal ride!" He said, clapping his hands. "I'm impressed."

"Though let me tell you that the tapes Dev was trying to take are actually crucial evidence in a hit-and-run case. Tapes that show you, Priyanka Singh Oberoi, responsible for the hit-and-run," he said through gritted teeth.

"I have already told you that I didn't kill her!" She cried. "It was because of Svetlana!"

"You never told me that you were driving under the influence of alcohol. Nor did you tell me why Svetlana had anything to do with it. The way I see it, Papa's prodigal princess turned eighteen and thought she now owns the world," he sneered. "She kills one person, no problem! She can turn another into a scapegoat to create a sob story and save herself."

"That's not true! I did not kill that girl. It was Svetlana. I don't know why she did it, but she did," Priyanka tried to explain, the panic threatening to overtake her.

"That story has no truth in it," he snapped.

"You have to believe me, Ranveer. You saw the threat notes!"

"They're the perfect foil to put the investigation off your trail. I can't believe I almost fell for them," he replied, the disgust evident in his voice.

"I would never do that!" She sobbed.

"And Dev's sister would?"

It was Priyanka's turn to look confused.

"Svetlana is Dev's sister. Quite a love you have where your boyfriend's family is a secret that needs to be unravelled by outsiders," he mocked.

When Priyanka didn't respond, he continued, "If you're still insistent that Svetlana has a role to play in this case, bring me one evidence that points to the fact. If satisfactory, I will do the rest. If not, you will be arrested and charged for Ipshita Singh's murder based on the evidence in the tapes. You have until tomorrow afternoon."

With that, he turned and started walking away. However, a few blocks down, he halted and turning around called out, "And Miss Oberoi, this time don't dare to run away because you know how easy it is for me to find you."

***

With Ranveer gone, Priyanka collapsed on the ground and broke into tears, the anguish of grief finally overtaking her. She cried for the pain she had caused her brother due to her immaturity. She cried for the pain she was causing Ranveer and her self. She cried for the hope of love that was not brutally crushed. She cried at the unfairness of it all. She sat there, sobs racking her body till she was drained and no longer had the energy to cry.

As she sat there, drained and almost lifeless, she opened the crumpled note that she had been holding in her palm all along. The note that she had discovered in her purse only after reaching home.

Oberoi baby, on her high horse,
When the scandal blows, her secrets will drop,
When the video leaks, her pride will crawl,
And down will come baby, family and all.

-X

Oh how she had wanted to tell Ranveer about this note and more. About Svetlana's connection to Ippy, about her presence in that party two years ago and what had exactly happened on that fateful night. But she couldn't. Not without comprising O bhaiyya's life, because she knew that Svetlana would stay true to her promise. Just as she had warned Priyanka in that phone call earlier...

Priyanka heaved a sigh of relief after speaking to Ranveer. He would be here soon sang then she would tell him everything that she could now recall about the night of the accident. It wouldn't be difficult for Ranveer to get a hold of Svetlana once he was aware of the whole story. Hopefully, once she was arrested, they're would be some peace in the life of Ranveer and Priyanka as they wouldn't finally be able to put their pasts behind them and think about their future together. She smiled as she fingered the delicate filigreed brooch that Ranveer had gifted her. The man knew how to woo a lady.

Her phone buzzed and, in her excitement, she answered it without checking the caller ID.

"Hello, baby doll!"

Priyanka felt a chill race down her spine as she recognised Svetlana's voice.

"S-ss-Svetlana?"

"I'm glad you remember this old friend," she trilled. "Been getting my messages, I hope?"

"Wh-why are you d-doing this?" Priyanka managed to reply.

"Oh, chicken! If only we could get the answers to all our questions in life. But is life that fair?"

"Why aa-are you ca-calling?"

"You love your brother, don't you? We all do. So here's a deal. Your loverboy has taken Dev in custody. Ask him to let Dev go without pressing charges. In return, I let you and your O bhaiyya live in peace. If not, that grand exhibition that Omkara is planning next month, imagine what will happen if word gets around that he was involved in a hit-and-run? Oh, the drama!"

"Bu-but I can't do ay-anything for him."

"Oh, but I can do so much for O! Watch out for the headlines tomorrow, baby doll!"

"Wait!"

"I knew you were smart."

Within a matter of minutes, her world had once again turned upside down. Now, Ranveer thought everything about her was a lie. Her words, her story, her actions and probably, even her feelings. If only he knew...

Against all odds

Aimlessly, staring into the dark, she sat on the bench in the garden, mustering courage to return to her room. It was the exact same spot where it all started, on that perfectly moonlit evening. She was not able to see it then, but it was perfect. She could not deny it, the chemistry between the two of them had been there from the very beginning. Today though, she saw no moonlight, no stars, no sparks. Just empty hollow darkness.

Lost in her world of thoughts, she pondered on where, when and how her night had turned into an absolute nightmare. What were the odds of this happening? And that too, again?! Painfully aware of the fact that she had to handle this by herself, she closed her eyes.

Priyanka prayed in silence for strength and wisdom. Only the good Lord could help her out of this predicament. This time, she could not rely on anybody else. No brothers, no father nor a dashing ACP, albeit a tad cocky one, by her side.

There was nobody else to turn to, nor to blame for this mess other than herself. This was one battle she had to fight alone. But who exactly was she up against? Who was her opponent? What was her game plan? Was she even ready to handle all this by herself? She could feel a panic rise up.

Relax Prinku.. Breath in and out.. Slowly.. Inhale.. Exhale..' Priyanka managed to stay quite calm. All thanks to the lessons she had been taught by her therapist. To overcome her panic attacks she took deep breaths, to avoid severe hyperventilation. She wiped away the sweat of her face and neck with her dupatta.

Face your demons Prinku!' She could here Rudra's voice echo in her head. Words which were once spoken by him to coach her during boxing workouts, seem to fit this situation well. He was right. She had to face her demons head on!

Perhaps she had to face her worst demon first. The one holding her back in life the most. Herself. Fight her inner demon. Again, it were Rudra's words she thought of. Prinku, you can do anythingyou want to do. The only one who can stop you is you...' At the time she had smiled sweetly when Rudra had spoken these kind words to make her feel better. But now, his advice started to make sense to her and even coach and encourage her.

Svetlana was the root cause of her misery. An awful mean witch and the actual culprit of the crime she and Omkara were accused of. It was her Priyanka had to expose and take down. But how would she proof that it was not her and O bhaiya who were at fault here? Where should she start to collect proof?

As much as she wanted Svetlana behind bars and get proof against her, more so she wanted proof which showed her innocence and to clear the Oberoi name. Proof she could present to Ranveer. It was Svetlana's defeat she was after. And if she was lucky, she could win back his trust and perhaps.. Even his heart.. Somehow, she longed for his care and affection, the sort of which she knew he was capable of. She knew this, since she had seen it in his eyes and felt it in his touch.

Too many thoughts ran through her mind. Unwillingly, Ranveer's face was the one she could see clearly, even with her eyes wide open. His eyes filled with anger, disbelief and disappointment haunted her. Quite the opposite of the glances he had given her a few hours ago in the car, which had pleasantly surprised her.

Flashbacks of memories of Ranveer passed her by. Their somewhat magical encounter in the garden. In his eyes she had seen the reflection of a perfect round full moon. His peaceful face during meditation at the ashram, which she had carefully sneak peaked on. What a contrast with the sharpness he usually showed the world. She felt privileged to have witnessed this, up close and personal. She smiled faintly, thinking of his shocked and surprised facial expressions when she had kicked him. She had not only surprised him, but also herself. Her brothers would have been very proud of her, knowing the self defense lessons did not go to waste.

She wondered how it would feel to not fight Ranveer but to love him. To be loved by him. Love.. The thought of love and Ranveer in one sentence startled her. Did she love him? Could he possibly love her back? She looked up to the sky, expecting answers to be given to her. Why did she think of love? Clearly, he had offered her his hand in friendship. Friendship! The gift was a beautiful piece of jewelry, and proof of this new phase of their relationship.

She closed her eyes as she imagined his warm breath against her neck. Just like that day when she was handcuffed in his bedroom in the ashram and that bizarre evening in that haunted house. She sniffed her nose and tried to recall his scent.

Friendship? Such intimacy between just friends? She did not have that many friends, but she knew he was her only friend she felt for this strongly. Whatever it was, love or friendship, she knew she did not want to loose him.

Priyanka looked at the broche once more. A single tear escaped her eye and found its way down her cheek. She felt a stinging pain rise up through her chest. Literally, she could empathize with every brokenhearted soul or love song writer.

They have been through so much together in a short amount of time. The wild car chase and accident, suddenly reminded her of Svetlana and Dev again, which made her comeback to reality.

As clueless as she was about the time, she did realise she could not stay out in the garden much longer. The guards would make their rounds soon and spot her. Surely, that would get back to Shivaay bhaya and raise questions which was certainly not what she needed right now.

She got up to go back to her room. Still thinking of Ranveer's harsh words and the looks he gave her, Priyanka knew she had to convince him of her innocence and arrange Dev's release. Her priority was O bhaya, without a doubt. He had been through enough. He had sacrificed too much for her sake already. No more now! It was up to her to protect him. She had to make sure this all stopped. But how? She needed more time to think of a plan.

Priyanka was not the only one who was having a sleepless night. After Ranveer left the Oberoi Mansion, he sat in his car for quite a while, barely being able to control his anger. Even more than anger it was disappointment he felt.

What the hell was I thinking? Was I even thinking? How could I allow myself to forget that this snob was involved in a crime, murdering my darling sister?'

He could not understand where and when exactly he let go of the idea that she was involved in this matter. All he knew now, is that he could not ignore the images he had seen on that TV screen! He could feel his blood boiling!

Disgusted by the idea of him wanting to play house with her! Get married and have babies with her! That stone cold hearted murderer! And a bloody good liar as well!! She tricked him. She tricked him well. Him! ACP Ranveer Singh Randhawa! He had fallen prey in her net of deceit.

Wake up Ranveer!! You allowed her to trick you! There is no one other than yourself to blame for this mess you are in!'

He slammed his hands on the steering wheel in anger. He leaned back with a deep sigh, coming from the depth of his soul. With his eyes closed, he tried to comprehend what exactly had happened in the past 24 hours.

After 2 years, he had finally allowed himself to enjoy the party and have fun again. All because of that beautiful enchanting creature, Priyanka Singh Oberoi.

Flashes of her lovable innocent face quickly ran through his mind. Her beautiful big wide eyes, surrounded by dark long lashes. Her thick long silky soft hair. She did look absolutely amazing tonight.

He did not allow himself to think of her. Not anymore. Not with the proof he was presented with this evening. He could not allow that.

Instead, fragments of the video popped up very clearly. He could see his sister, covered in blood, lying on the dark cold pavement, completely still. The brother - sister duo driving away after the accident. A typical hit-and-run case of which The Oberoi's thought to buy their way out!!

His hands held on to the steering wheel tightly. His jaws clenched together firmly. Clear signs of him trying to control the feeling of grief and rage. He started the car and raced off, with squealing tyres, leaving a trace of black tyre trails behind.

At home, Ranveer had too much adrenaline pumping through his blood, which he thought to punch out of his system on the boxing ball. There were just too many thoughts going through his mind. Questions. Questions. And more questions. Things didn't add up. There were still pieces of the puzzle missing.

Why didn't Priyanka tell the truth about her involvement in the car accident? Who is this Svetlana and why is she writing threat notes? If she is Dev's sister, why would she threaten her sister in law? Why does nobody have a picture of this woman? Priyanka reacted so surprised on Svetlana being Dev's sister. And then.. There is the mystery about the tapes.

Ah.. The tapes.. God, who knew little miss Oberoi would turn out to be such a great actress! With ease, he could recall her face, her expressions when she mentioned Dev did not steal the tapes. If he didn't know better, he probably would have believed her. Ranveer wondered whether he was angry with Priyanka or with himself for allowing himself to be tricked so easily by her.

It is not too late yet! I will get every detail out in the open. I will make Her Royal Highness confess! And then she can rot in jail for all I care!

Out of breath, with sweat drops glistening on his face and body

from his exercise on his punch bag to let go of steam, Ranveer called Shinde.

"Sir?

Shinde, I need you to arrange eyes and ears on Miss Oberoi until further notice. I want to know every little detail! Who she meets with, whom she speaks to, what she had for dinner, everything! Do you hear me?!'

~~~~

Without waiting for Shinde's affirmative reply, Ranveer hung up the phone and hit the showers, expecting the water to wash away and purify all the bad memories and images.

A deep sigh escaped his mouth, while he put away his phone. Sushanth knew the ACP had too much on his mind right now. He also knew that Ranveer's instincts about following (and protecting) Miss Oberoi were spot on. There was something peculiar about this case.

Sushanth requested a copy of the tape which had magically turned up today. Something just didn't feel right to Sushanth, but he couldn't put his finger on it. He figured he could investigate further at home.

While he waited, he reviewed the events of the past few hours. Literally, too much had happened! After two long years, finally proof was found on what happened to the ACP's sister. And of all people, Miss Oberoi turned out to be the culprit! What are the odds?'

Miss Oberoi had been his date for the evening. She is so friendly, so polite. Somehow I just cannot imagine her hurting anyone.'

His phone buzzed. It was a text from Nisha. He could not help it, but a smile appeared on his face.

Good night Sushanth. Thanks for the ride home and for being a perfect gentleman.'

Without hesitation he replied back to her:

Thought you were asleep already. Good night and sweet dreams, Miss Nisha.'

Nisha. He had to talk to here in the morning about Dev and Neha's friendship, Dev and Priyanka's engagement. Dev and Svetlana brother-sister jodi. Dev seemed to play a key role in this case.

Miss Oberoi trusts him. He would take it upon himself to stay close to her and try and get any leads. With a copy of the tape he left the police station. Considering the time, he would not get much sleep at all. He could better make himself useful and study the tape better for any clues.

~~~~

Ranveer entered the police station full fury. He had not slept much but that was not the reason for his bad mood. Shinde had notified him early morning that Priyanka had left the Oberoi Mansion and was headed towards the police station.

If she was going to meet Dev, he had to be there as well. How dare she? This was his turf! His domain! Not some fancy mansion you could walk in and out for a tea party! What was she thinking?

Sushanth followed his fast pace and walked beside him, to inform him of what had happened.

Sir, I arrived at 6 a.m. at the Oberoi Mansion only to find Miss Oberoi leave at 6.15 a.m. with her driver Anand. She met with Mr. Patel, who joined her to the police station.'

Ranveer looked annoyed yet surprised at Sushanth. Mr. Patel?' he asked, as he lifted an eyebrow.

Yes sir. Mr. Patel. Mr. Tushar Patel..' Sushanth paused briefly, but resumed after no reaction was given by Ranveer. Mr. Patel is the Oberoi's business lawyer. Quite notorious not to lose any case he puts his hands on.'

Ranveer felt his blood boiling again. He continued the last few steps towards the Commissioner's office, which he entered not so quietly.

Thank you Commissioner. I am glad you agreed that this was all based on a misunderstanding. I will make sure to get the rest of the paperwork processed and get Mr. Dev Chhabra home, safe and sound, where he belongs.'

Sir! What's going on here?!' Randhawa demanded an explanation. Did I hear this correctly? Is Dev Chhabra going home?'

Randhawa! Mind your tone please! Now sit down and I will explain to you what we have discussed!'

Mr. Patel and Priyanka left the Commissioner's office, without even once looking at Ranveer.

Ranveer, you know I like you but you have to mind your temper. I am afraid your emotions are clouding your judgment in this case. I have been informed that a tape has surfaced with incriminating proof in one of the older cases you are working on. That's amazing of course. Especially, if this is your sister's murder case, you are secretly working on..'

Ranveer remained silent for a change. The Commissioner continued:

I will ignore the fact that you disobeyed my orders Ranveer. Because I do understand you, trust me.. Still, you cannot hold Dev Chhabra in custody for a crime he technically did not commit. He is the co-owner of the Oberoi Grand Hotel. Why would he steal his own security tapes? It makes no sense, does it? So unless you come up with some other proof, we have to let him go.. For now..'

Ranveer had no other choice than to let Dev go. Sushanth joined Ranveer. They both watched them finalising the last formalities.

Miss Oberoi has proven herself to be a true Oberoi after all. Who would have thought she would win this round? Clever of her to involve Mr. Patel to free her loving caring cheating fiance from jail. I wonder whether her precious obnoxious brother knows about this. I know he is not a big fan of the Chhabra's.. I am serious Shinde. I need someone to keep an eye on her. She will not get away this time! She will have to pay for what she has done!'

~~~~

Flashback, Priyanka's bedroom.

Priyanka had returned to her room, after snooping around in Shivaay's study room. She had convinced herself this was the only way and she called the number which she had copied from Shivaay's phone book.

H-h-hello.. Mr. Patel?'

Yes? Who is this?'

(After taking a deep breath, she continued)

Mr Patel, this is P-p-priyanka.. Priyanka Oberoi.. I am very s-s-sorry to disturb you at this hour. But I had no other choice. P-p-please help me..'

She informed Tushar about Dev's situation, the blackmail and the consequences Omkara would face if Dev would remain in jail. Tushar agreed to help Priyanka and to meet her early morning.

Mr Patel, Shivaay bhaiya should not be informed. In fact, nobody can ever know..'

Back to the present.

Priyanka could feel his eyes following her. She tried her very best to ignore him but his hateful gaze pierced right through her. He would not understand her. She had no other choice than to resort to hiring fancy lawyers who could release clients from jail based on technicality issues. Something she despised, to misuse power and money. But her love for her O bhaya has no boundaries. He should not get hurt in any way. Omkara lied for her. Took the full blame and responsibility on him. Surely, she could do this much for him.

Dev gave Priyanka a big hug, which seemed to be a very intimate hug. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I am so happy you came to bail me out Priyanka.'

Dev.. I got you out of jail today. But you owe me some answers!' Priyanka whispered. I suggest you start with your sister!'

~~~~

(TO BE CONTINUED...)

Edited by twerping - 8 years ago