chapter 7

Bound by Fate

Chapter 7: Rising from the Ashes

The morning after the attack, the Rathore estate stood as a shadow of its former self. Broken chandeliers lay scattered across marble floors, soot-blackened walls bore witness to the night's chaos, and a tense silence hung in the air.

Kavi sat on the steps of the main hall, sipping a cup of tea and surveying the destruction. Veer emerged from the courtyard, his shirt torn and streaked with ash, but his demeanor steady.

“Well, this is a look,” Kavi quipped, gesturing at his disheveled appearance.

Veer raised an eyebrow. “Says the woman in pajamas and combat boots.”

Kavi smirked. “Touché.”

Despite the banter, the weight of what had happened was undeniable. The attack had been calculated and personal. It was no longer just about territory or business—someone wanted them gone, together.

The Aftermath

Veer’s parents, Rani and Arjun, were quick to take control of the situation.

“Kavi beta,” Rani said, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, “you were incredible last night. We’re lucky to have you.”

Kavi’s lips twitched into a smile. “I just did what I had to. This family means more to me than I realized.”

Arjun chimed in, his voice gruff but warm. “You’ve proven yourself, Kavi. You’re not just a Rathore by name—you’ve earned your place here.”

Kavi’s chest tightened at their support. For the first time in years, she felt like she belonged somewhere.

Rebuilding the Empire

Veer wasted no time in planning their next move. A war council convened in the study, with Kavi, Rani, Arjun, and Veer’s most trusted allies gathered around the table.

“The rival gangs see this attack as a sign of weakness,” Veer began, his tone commanding. “We need to hit back harder and smarter. Kavi, what’s your take?”

All eyes turned to her. Kavi leaned forward, her fingers tracing the edge of the table.

“They targeted our home because they thought we’d crumble,” she said. “We rebuild stronger, and we send a message: attacking the Rathores is the biggest mistake anyone can make.”

Veer nodded, a spark of admiration in his eyes. “Exactly what I was thinking.”

As the council dispersed, Veer caught Kavi by the arm.

“You’re really good at this,” he said, his voice low.

“Don’t sound so surprised,” Kavi replied, her lips quirking into a grin. “You married me, remember?”

Veer chuckled. “Best decision I never made.”

An Unexpected Discovery

While surveying the damages in the estate, Kavi stumbled upon a hidden passage in the library—a dusty, forgotten hallway that seemed to lead nowhere. Curious, she called for Veer.

“This wasn’t in the blueprints,” Veer said, running his fingers along the wall.

They followed the passage to a locked room. Inside, they found boxes of old documents, photographs, and ledgers that belonged to Veer’s grandfather.

“What is all this?” Kavi asked, flipping through a faded ledger.

Veer’s brow furrowed. “My grandfather was a visionary, but also secretive. These might be the missing pieces to understanding our rivals.”

Among the items, Kavi discovered a map marked with symbols. “This looks like a network of alliances and territories,” she said. “It might help us figure out who’s pulling the strings behind these attacks.”

Veer’s gaze softened as he watched her work. “You know, I don’t say this enough, but you’re incredible.”

Kavi glanced at him, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “You should say it more often.”

The Turning Point

That evening, Veer and Kavi shared a quiet dinner in the garden. The stars were bright, and the cool night air carried the scent of jasmine.

“Do you ever wonder what life would be like if we weren’t... this?” Kavi asked, gesturing vaguely.

Veer tilted his head. “You mean, if I were a boring businessman and you were running your family’s restaurant?”

“Exactly,” Kavi said, laughing softly.

Veer leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. “It would’ve been simpler, sure. But we wouldn’t be us. And honestly, I can’t imagine my life without you in it.”

Kavi’s heart skipped a beat. “You’re getting sappy on me, Rathore.”

Veer smirked. “Don’t get used to it.”

The playful moment was interrupted by a phone call. Veer’s expression darkened as he listened.

“Another attack,” he said, hanging up.

Kavi stood, her resolve hardening. “Then we fight back.”

A United Front

The couple arrived at the warehouse where their men were holding off another ambush. This time, Veer and Kavi fought side by side, their movements synchronized and efficient.

In the midst of the chaos, Veer caught Kavi’s hand, pulling her to safety behind a stack of crates.

“We’re going to get through this,” he said, his voice steady.

Kavi nodded, her eyes blazing with determination. “We always do.”

As they emerged victorious once more, the respect from Veer’s men was palpable. Kavi wasn’t just Veer’s wife—she was a force to be reckoned with.

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