Page 132 of One Hellish Passion

“Maybe it's someone else. I don’t think Vivek will harm you. There is a mistake… some… misunderstanding.”

Garima started to panic. Ranveer reached the bed.

“We are doing our best to find the real culprit,” he assured. “Do not stress yourself, please.”

She wiped her tears, gently nodding. How was she supposed to wait for the results? Her daughter was the victim, and the man she loved was the suspect. If he really had done something, she would never forgive him. She could tolerate anything but not a single scratch on her daughter.

Afternoon

“Happy Birthday,” Ranveer hugged Dhruv, who paid them a visit.

“Thank you, Bro. Where is my gift?” he asked shamelessly.

“Gift? What gift? You are not a small boy now. You can buy anything for yourself,” Ranveer teased.

“Bro, this trick is old. I know you can forget anything else, but not buying me a present and sending an online cake home. So, where is it?” he tried to frisk Ranveer’s pockets.

“You won’t find anything this time,” Ranveer raised his arms, letting his brother search him.

“Goddamn.” Dhruv gave up.

Seeing that fake frown on his brother’s face, Ranveer decided not to keep him waiting for too long. He gestured Laura who reached them with a small box inside.

“That’s your gift,” Ranveer handed him the box.

Dhruv unwrapped it and found a key.

“Your new imported car is waiting outside.”

“Oh God. Thank you so much Bro. You are the best,” he hugged Ranveer again.

Maya watched the two and heard their conversation. Giving expensive gifts was nothing new to Ranveer, but she had seen him taking extra care for Dhruv, just like he would for his own blood. They might be half-brothers, but their bond was out of this world.

“Time to cut the cake,” Maya placed the freshly baked cake on the table.

“Wow. Is that homemade?” Dhruv ran to her. She nodded. “I love such cakes. Maa used to make it for us on our birthdays. Right bro?”

Ranveer nodded, recalling that too.

“Thank you, Maya, for giving me back the old memories,” Dhruv hugged her, but it was a very restricted hug. He didn’t want his brother to get jealous. “Where is my darling aunty? I will go get her.”

Dhruv hurried to get Garima out, whereas Ranveer poured some wine for them. Dhruv cut the cake. Maya and Garima sang the birthday song for him, whereas Ranveer just clapped along with the rest. He was not very much into singing. Dhruv fed Ranveer first and then Maya and Garima. He even danced with Garima, earning her laughs and giggles, making them forget about yesterday’s events for some time. His presence made the house come to life again.

“Time to leave. Dad and Kunal Bhai have arranged a party tonight. All my friends are coming. You are invited, especially you, aunty,” he winked.

“I might not come, Dhruv. You know I easily get tired,” Garima pouted. “But I will send them.”

“I won’t leave your side, Mumma.” Maya argued.

“That’s not needed. I have the nurse to look after me in your absence. I want you and Ranveer to go and enjoy. It’s my order.”

“All right then. I will see you both today evening. Don’t be late. Bye.” Dhruv waved at them and left the house.

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After Dhruv left, Maya was in the kitchen when Ranveer showed up there.

“I need a deadline.”

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