Thriller The Killer ~ (Romance/Thriller) (Completed)

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 29
Part29

Arnav was thinking about Ratan’s phone call. Who is threatening him? Why? He knew very well that Akhilesh was the ONLY killer. Then who is this a new Killer? Or is someone using the KILLER’s name to take revenge on Ratan? He threw the phone on the bed seeing Khushi is out of the washroom. He rushed to the washroom to get ready. Pooja baby would be waiting for them. Now, that’s what to be taken care of.

......

Khushi and Arnav stopped, a little away, seeing Pooja is interestingly talking to Nakul childishly. Nakul was showing her some pics on his tab.

Nakul: See, I got first prize in a running race. This pic is captured at our school’s parent’s day celebration.

Pooja: We will also celebrate Parent’s day in our school.

Nakul: But you don’t have parents.

He said not thinking of the complexity of the word.

Pooja’s face hung. Her lips quivered. She was about to cry, Arnav called her.

Arnav: Poojuuuu…

Pooja turned around and smiled seeing her Bua and Phupa. She rushed towards him. Arnav lifted her. In no time, Pooja hugged his neck.

Nakul smiled at Khushi innocently. He uttered those harmful words not knowing the depth of it. Chiding him won’t be wiser at all. He is a small kid after all.

Arnav caressed her hair in a consoling manner.

Arnav: I and Khushi will come to your school on Parent’s day.

He said lovingly. Pooja lifted her head and looked at him sadly.

Pooja: but you are not my parents.

Arnav: Who said? You are our baby. We are going to adopt you as our daughter.

Pooja(excitedly): That means, you are my Dad?

Arnav: Yeah… and Khushi will become your Mom.

Pooja: Is it Bua?

She asked Khushi who was in an extreme level of shock as she didn’t expect Arnav’s sudden decision. She was gazing at him couldn’t understand anything.

Arnav: Call her Mumma.

Pooja was looking at Khushi who was not answering.

Arnav(tapping Khushi’s shoulder): Pooja is waiting for your reply.

Khushi nodded YES hurriedly.

Pooja got down from Arnav and ran towards Nakul, shouting…

Pooja: Nakulllll…. I got parents…

Nakul frowned at her not understanding anything. Pooja’s Nani came out hearing Pooja’s shaking statement.

Without wasting time, Arnav reached pooja. He will answer if anyone asks her anything.

Nani: Parents?

Arnav: Yeah… we adopt her legally.

Nakul: Congratulations Pooja.

Pooja: I will go to my school with my new parents.

She hoped, clapping her hands.

Pooja’s Nani couldn’t take her eyes from Arnav who is admiring Pooja’s antics smilingly.

Nani: you should be a good girl ok? Listen to them. Don’t make them angry.

Pooja: Nani…. He is so good you know. He won’t get angry at me.

Nani touched her head smilingly.

Khushi: Aunty, we are leaving.

Nani: Yeah… keep in touch.

Khushi: Sure.

Pooja: Bye Nani…

Nani: Bye.

Taking a leave from Pooja’s Nani, they left with Pooja. Khushi observed something. Pooja was so happy than ever before.

As usual, Arnav took pooja to the ice cream parlour. As usual, he bought a variety of flavours in small size packs. Pooja sat on the chair and started relishing them one by one.

Arnav sensed Khushi’s strong and stunning gaze on him who is paying money for the ice creams. He turned around and saw Khushi standing.

Khushi: When did you make the decision?

Arnav: I was thinking about it for a few days. Ansh will start calling us Mom and Dad because we are going to enter his life like Mom and Dad. What about Pooja? Won’t she feel different? She is a small girl, if we are lucky enough; she may forget her parents in the mere future and will start believing us as her parents.

Khushi: What about Di?

Arnav: I’m not going to declare the truth about Ansh if she gets her consciousness back.

Khushi(shockingly): What do you mean?

Arnav: I don’t want her to spend her life, thinking of an undeserving person of her life. She should move on. If she gets to know that Ansh is her son, she won’t do that. So, Pooja and Ansh will be our children even if she gets out of the coma.

Khushi: What if she is not ready for a second life?

Arnav: She will be a good BUA to Pooja and also Ansh. I don’t want any difference between them.

Khushi: It’s not good to hide the truth.

Arnav: Let it be. There won’t be any harm in hiding the truth because we are not going to show a difference between Ansh and Pooja… will you?

Khushi nodded NO.

Arnav: Ansh will get love from his parents… that’s we. won’t he?

Khushi nodded yes.

Arnav: Then, what’s necessary for him to get another mother?

Khushi: But, you can’t decide your Di’s life.

Arnav: I will… we don’t know when she will get her consciousness back. Till then what do you say to Ansh? “Your mother is alive but she is unconscious, she won’t talk to you, she won’t see you?” how long will you say so? He will get fed up….like me. And…..what if she…. (he gulped, couldn’t utter that “what if she dies not coming out of the coma?”) would he accept us as his parents then? Instead of longing for a mother’s love, he is going to get Dad, Mom, and a cute sister’s love. Won’t it be better?

Khushi: But…

Arnav(stopping her showing his hand): Let me be a BAD brother… but this is my decision.

He said rigidly. Though Arnav’s THIS decision has few HOLES, there is no better option than this. Of course, Pooja and Ansh need parents.

Arnav: I hope there won’t be any conflicts between us.

Khushi nodded yes.

Arnav: Good.

He smirked.

Pooja: I finished… Dad...

Arnav felt something in his heart for this small girl, hearing DAD from her mouth for the first time. He spread his hand and Pooja jumped on him.

Arnav: Anything else?

Pooja: When will you bring Ansh home?

Arnav: Next week.

Pooja: Joly….

She kissed his cheek. Khushi’s eyes didn’t listen to her who is adoring them to not spill tears as they were in public.

Pooja was sitting on the petrol tank of the bike, continuously chitchatting about whatever she sees on the way. But Khushi’s mind was not into her talks. She was sincerely watching her husband through the mirror who was sincerely replying to Pooja’s questions. she leaned on his shoulder without taking her eyes from his face. Arnav saw her looking at him; he asked her raising his eyebrows like ”what?” through the mirror. Khushi nodded NO.

When they reached the flats, Arnav saw Ratan waiting for him. He frowned seeing him. He rushed towards Arnav.

Ratan: Sir…. please save me.

Arnav: What the hell… why do you come here? I don’t’ like people coming to my home.

Ratan: Sir, this is my life problem, sir.

Arnav gestured for Khushi to go inside. She nodded yes and went with Pooja.

Arnav: what’s your problem?

Ratan: Sir, everyone knew about the killer team. They will do what they say. Now, I’m under their threat, sir.

Arnav: Where did you miss your phone?

Ratna: Someone stole it, sir. it was with me when I started from home. It was not in my pocket when I reached the office.

Arnav: Who do you meet in between?

Ratan: None, sir.

Arnav: Try to remember.

Ratan: Someone banged me when I was about to enter the elevator, sir.

Arnav: Who is that?

Ratan: I didn’t see his face, sir.

Arnav: ok. I will inquire. Now you go.

Ratna(pleadingly): Sir…. my wife will spit on my face if the truth is out.

Arnav: So?

Ratan: Please catch the killer soon sir.

Arnav: Hmm.

Arnav waited until Ratan leaves. He dialled Aman.

Aman: Good evening, Sir.

Arnav: Aman, the case hasn’t ended yet.

Aman(shockingly): What do you mean, sir?

Arnav narrated to him about the new issue. Aman silently listened to him.

Aman: What do you think, Sir?

Arnav: there is nothing to think about. I can surely say who it could be.

Aman(chuckled): You also got it, sir?

Arnav: It’s so simple after all….

They laughed.

To be continued…

Next Chapter

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 30
Part30

Arun Prince’s face brightened, seeing his friend’s number flashing on his phone screen.

Prince: Wow… still you remember me?

Arnav: Shut up.

Prince: I thought you won’t call me once the case got over.

Arnav: Yeah… you are right. But the case hasn’t got over yet.

Prince(shockingly): Whaaat! But the killer is dead…

Arnav: But the problem is different. Didn’t you see the news? There is a killer team.

Arnav maintained the same with Prince too. He didn’t reveal it to him.

Prince: yeah... Tell me what’s the matter?

Arnav: Someone is threatening Ratan.

Prince(thinking): Ratan… Ratan… ohhh… Aspire builders Manager… right?

Arnav: Yeah… do you remember him?

Prince: I couldn’t forget his CHATS yaar. Being a HALF-OLD man, what romantic dialogues does he use….? “you stole my sleep baby….”

Prince laughed.

Arnav: Now he is paying back… not getting sleep.

He said gritting his teeth.

Prince: It’s getting thrilling, yaar.

Arnav: Of course… I have guessed the person too.

Prince: Wow… interesting… whom you are suspecting?

Arnav: I will tell you. but there is a complexity.

Prince: There is nothing called complexity in Prince’s history. I could give you the number in a few minutes. Don’t you know me?

Arnav: But, this time, I don’t want NUMBER.

Prince: Then what do you want?

Arnav: I will give you the number, you just locate him.

Prince: Ohh… sure.

Arnav told him Ratan’s number.

Arnav: It’s Ratan’s number.

Prince: Whaaaat! Ratan’s number? You are confusing me.

Arnav: Yeah… he is threatening Ratan, through Ratan’s mobile.

Prince: Did he steal it?

Arnav: Yeah…

Prince: Brilliant…

Arnav: Maybe…

Prince(teasingly): Typical police… try to appreciate a talented person.

Arnav chuckled.

Arnav: I will surely do it in person when I meet him.

Prince: Ok fine. Who do you are suspect?

Arnav told him his name.

Prince: Ohh yeah… excellent guess yaar.

Arnav: There is nothing to be proud of. He is the ONLY man who could do that.

Prince: Yeah…

Arnav: Let me know about him after tracing him thoroughly.

Prince: Sure.

They disconnected the call.

Night

Arnav was lying on the bed, thinking about Ratan. Pooja was sleeping, next to him, a comic book in her hand.

Khushi: Did she sleep?

Arnav: Yeah… before I complete a storytelling session…

Khushi: That’s good.

Arnav tried to get up from the bed so that she could sleep beside Pooja.

Khushi: Wait…

Sitting on the bed, she came close to him, clutching his shoulders. Before Arnav concludes, she went to Pooja, crossing him, making him disappointed. She laid beside Pooja controlling her smile, seeing Arnav’s expression. Arnav turned her towards him, to face him.

Arnav: This is not fair.

Khushi: What?

Arnav: You disappointed me.

Khushi: What do I do?

Arnav: Why did you cross me?

Khushi: Because you were on the bed. How could I go to Pooja then? So I just came to Pooja, crossing you.

Arnav: You should take permission before crossing the border.

Khushi: I have not crossed the border. I’m at the border only.

Arnav: It seems someone became casual?

Khushi: Do you have any problems?

Arnav: I have no problem but it may backfire on you.

He said putting his leg on her.

Khushi: Backfire? I don’t think my husband’s GUN is a CIRCUS gun. it won't backfire.

Arnav: What made my wife turn opposite, suddenly?

Khushi: It’s because you are not that bad…

Arnav(raising his eyebrows): Ohh…

Khushi: I thought you married me to take care of your niece.

Arnav: Hmmm?

Khushi: I was so satisfied when you open up your heart to me.

Arnav: When?

Khushi: Evening… before going to pick Pooja…

Arnav: …before I made love….?

Khushi nodded yes.

Arnav: I thought I made you scare.

Khushi: That’s true…

Arnav(chuckled): Really? Still, you get satisfied?

Khushi: I was scared, seeing your new side and I got satisfied that I can make you cool down.

Arnav: Only you.

Khushi held his face and pecked his forehead.

Arnav(in husky tone): Hey… we just had a session in the evening. Don’t tempt me.

Khushi: yeah… I could remember it was something like, sitting inside the pressure cooker.

Arnav laughed out loudly. Khushi closed his mouth.

Khushi: Shhh…. Pooja is sleeping.

Arnav(removing her hand from his mouth): Let me make a session like sitting on the iceberg.

Khushi: I said about pressure cooker doesn’t mean I need iceberg.

Arnav: then what’s the meaning of this nearness?

He showed the gap between them with his index finger.

Khushi: It’s a matter of husband and wife. Don’t you know that?

Arnav: No. because this is my first marriage…

He chuckled. As he didn’t expect, Khushi clutched his hair.

Khushi: Dare you… don’t forget there is a killer who kills such persons. And I won’t think twice to kill you if you do so.

Arnav: When did you get this possessiveness?

Khushi: It is there… always.

Arnav: But you were like you have nothing in your heart for me?

He stroked her lower lip.

Khushi(stammering): Poo…pooja…

Arnav: She is sleeping.

Khushi: Let me sleep.

Arnav: Do you think I will?

Khushi: yup…

She turned towards Pooja’s side.

Arnav(murmuring in her eras): you think wrong.

Khushi: Really?

She turned towards him to only brush his lips. Arnav’s eyes fell on Pooja, he tried to get apart, Khushi locked his lips by hers. Arnav pulled his lips from hers.

Arnav: Pooja may wake up.

Khushi: She never wakes up in the mid.

Arnav: But…

Khushi: I know her.

Arnav pecked her forehead.

Arnav: Go to sleep. this is not right.

Khushi snuggled into his chest.

Arnav: Let me stay in my decision. Don’t make me collapse.

Khushi (chuckling): Is AC that weak?

Arnav: What say, a cynic girl made me weaker.

Khushi: ohh…

Arnav: She forced me to force her for marriage.

Khushi (with fake concern): Poor you… If I would have been in your place I had not seen her face.

Arnav(making face): It’s not that easy.

Khushi: Why?

Arnav: I can do nothing... she looks so beautiful.

He said pinching her nose making her smile. He laid on the bed, covering themselves by the quilt.

To be continued...

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 31
Part 31

Arnav and Aman planned to visit Ratan the next day. As per the plan, they reached Ratan’s house. When they reached Ratan’s house, there was a big mess. People were gossiping between them, all over the street.

Getting down from the jeep, Arnav went inside Ratan’s house. The security stopped him.

Security: Sir, no one is at home.

Arnav: Where are they?

Security: In the hospital, sir.

Arnav: Anything serious?

Security: Sir….

He hesitated to open up.

Arnav: Tell me what happened.

He intimidated the security.

Security: Madamji tried to commit suicide last night, sir.

Arnav: Suicide? But why?

Security: Ratan sir was in a relationship with someone it seems. Madam got to know that sir. So, she did cut her nerve. Everyone is with her in the hospital.

Arnav: Which Hospital?

Security: KS Hospital, sir.

Arnav jumped into the jeep again.

Aranv: Go to KS hospital.

Aman geared the engine up.

Aman: It seems the secret is out.

Arnav: Yes…

Aman: How could it happen, sir? Ratan even lost his mobile which is the only evidence of his relationship with Stella. If there is no evidence then how his wife gets to know about it? I don’t think Ratan himself would have told her the truth.

Arnav: No way.

Aman: Then what would have happened, sir?

Arnav: HE would have told…

Aman: Are you thinking so?

Arnav: Not thinking. I’m sure of it if he stole Ratan’s mobile…

Aman: HE was not wrong though.

Arnav: Never could be.

Aman: What we are going to do, sir?

Aranv(smirking): Why? Do you have any suggestions?

Aman: if his wife got to know the truth about him, there is no reason for him to live, sir.

Arnav raised his eyebrows.

Aman: Let him die, sir.

Arnav: Being policemen, is it good to think so?

Aman: What he did is not good, sir. Because of him, Stella died.

Arnav: you mean, wasn’t Stella wrong?

Aman: Both are equally involved, sir. Stella died then Ratan also should die and more to it, he is the one who trapped her using her weakness. He prized her a lot to get her attention. It’s a kind of intoxication, sir. He made her addicted to his talks and used her to quench his lust. He doesn’t deserve to be alive, sir.

Arnav: Let’s see what their condition is.

They reached KS hospital. Aman inquired the receptionist about Mrs Ratan.

Aman: Ma’am, I’m inspector Aman Mathur. May I know where is Mrs Ratan being admitted?

Recep: Ground floor, room number 98.

Aman: Which side, madam?

Recep: Last room of the left corridor.

Aman: Thank you.

When they near the room, they heard a shout and scream. Arnav and Aman stopped hearing that.

“I hate you. I have never thought you could be so cheap. Being a father of college-going children, how could you think of having a relationship with someone’s wife? Didn’t you think of me once? What is my mistake other than trusting and loving you truly?”

She hit her forehead severely.

“No… don’t you dare touch me? I don’t want to be touched by a womanizer like you. I don’t even want to see your face. I’m leaving with my children. You are a cheater. You are an undeserving person for my purest love”

It was none other than Mrs Ratan. She was pouring her burning heart out. They were not just a statement but her disappointment… disappointment of her true love… her expectations… her trust…

Arnav fisted his fingers. He couldn’t stop himself from thinking his Di. Her last conversation before the accident echoed in his mind.

“He cheated on me Chotte. I don’t want to live anymore.”

Is this what GOOD women earn for their true love? Why don’t men understand women's deepest inner feelings? How could they be so heartless? What is so important than their wife and Children? How selfish…?

Aman was observing only Arnav. He understood what Arnav is undergoing. He too felt bad for Ratan’s wife. But Ratan’s next stance made them shocked.

Ratan: Shantha… think once. Did I leave you lacking for anything? Didn’t I give you what you want? What do you want more than that? you have everything… house… car… jewels… are not enough to lead a happy life?

Arnav gritted his teeth so did Aman.

Shantha: do you think these things could make me happy? You gave me everything lifeless. Did I ask you anything? It’s you who wanted to live a lavishing life. You know very well I never give heed to material life. I just wanted LOVE... only love. I trusted you blindly… it’s my foolishness. I don’t want to be with you not after hearing your statement about LIFE. Leave me.

Ratan(with attitude): What will you do? Where will you go? Don’t decide in haste Shantha. You can do nothing without me. You and our children will beg for food.

He warned.

Shantha: I rather beg than live with you.

Ratan: Your wish…

Ratan came out of the room and saw Arnav and Aman.

Ratan(composing himself): AC sir… Good morning.

Arnav nodded his head.

Aman: It seems, Madam got to know the truth?

Ratan: she will be all right…

Arnav: But she looks broken.

Ratan: In anger, every woman would be like that, sir. she knows nothing other than screaming and shouting. As time passes, she will forget it.

Arnav: How could you be so sure of it?

Ratan: Don’t I know about women, sir? She has no source to live at all. She will come to me back. She has no choice.

Aman saw Arnav folding his hands to control his fist.

Ratan: Leave it, sir. Tell me, do you find my phone?

Arnav: No…

Ratan: Why sir, you could find it by its IMEI number…

Arnav: We tried. I think the killer would have broken the phone.

Ratan: Ohh God… Sir, please save me. I will give you the amount you never dreamt of.

Arnav: Ohh really?

Aman: Mr Ratan… why not you bargain with the killer team when they call you?

Ratan: Don’t you know them, sir? they would kill themselves rather than get bribed.

Arnav: Be careful… until we find them.

Ratan: I trust you, sir. you will surely save me.

Arnav smirked nodding yes.

Ratan: Take my new number, sir.

Arnav: Ohh you bought a new number?

Ratan: Yes, sir…as my wife got to know everything, I least care about my previous number.

Arnav noted down Ratan’s number.

Arnav: Did you give this number to anyone other than me?

Ratan: Yeah… I have given it to all my friends.

Arnav: Hmm…

Ratan: Sir… I trust your ability, sir.

He grinned.

Arnav nodded yes and left the place. Aman followed him.

Aman: I didn’t expect this, sir.

Arnav nodded yes.

Aman: He turned opposite, sir. such a heartless man. He is hammering on his wife’s broken heart without repentance. He is not what we think.

Arnav: Maybe… this is what he is.

Aman: How could he be so carefree when he is standing at the endpoint?

Arnav: Endpoint?

Aman: He has a THREAT from the killer, sir.

Arnav: He believes that we will save him.

Aman: Will we?

Arnav(wearing his goggles): Let’s go.

They started walking towards the parking lot.

Aman(while starting the jeep): What will Mrs Ratan do to run her life, sir?

Arnav: Every problem has a solution. Nothing will stop… no matter if Ratan is with them or not. When the situation pushes to the END... people will learn to fly.

Aman: Do you think, she will be all right?

Arnav: Only TIME could answer the question.

They got into the jeep. Arnav removed Akilesh’s mobile from his pocket. He sent a message to Ratan’s new number.

“Count your last hours”

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 32
Part32

Arnav was sitting on the balcony thinking deeply about Ratan and his behaviour towards his wife. What a man he is? How could a man be so haughty? No repentance, no remorse, no guilty even after doing treachery? Where is this world going? People learned to do perfidy without regretting it. How does his wife feel knowing his real face? He raised his head sighing only to find Khushi standing, looking at him. Arnav smiled at her.

Khushi: Are you all right?

Arnav nodded yes.

Khushi: Your face does not seem so.

Arnav: My face is like that.

He chuckled.

Khushi: Not all the time… only when you are upset.

Arnav: Maybe…

Khushi: What’s wrong?

Arnav explained everything about Ratan.

Arnav: Poor his wife.

Arnav didn’t hear Khushi. He looked at her who was thinking about it.

Arnav: What are you thinking?

Khushi: Yes… she is a poor woman who believed his masked face. But what will she do? Do you think she will be staying in her decision of getting separated from him?

Arnav: Don’t know but she should not change her decision.

Khushi: Can’t we help her?

Arnav: We can… but we shouldn’t.

Khushi: But why?

Arnav: there are many women in India like Mrs Ratan. We can’t help everyone. If Mrs Ratan stands for herself, she will be an example to those women. That’s what this society wants.

Khushi: But what if she fails?

Arnav: No one knows how strong they are until being strong is the only option. This is the chance for Mrs Ratan to be strong. Let her be strong. If she is not stronger, we don’t have to feel sorry for a spineless woman.

Khushi(murmuring): The killer should not have killed himself.

Arnav: Did you say something?

Of course, he heard what she said.

Khushi: Nothing.

Arnav: Where is Pooja?

Khushi: She is drawing something. She wants me to be out.

Arnav: Out? But why?

Khushi: Don’t know.

Arnav went to her room and slowly opened the door. Yes… Pooja was colouring her drawing.

Arnav: May I come in?

Pooja: No… Please, please…

Arnav: Ohh…ok, ok…

Pooja: Wait outside for a while. I will come soon.

Arnav: Ok.

Closing the door, Arnav came out. He asked Khushi through his eyes like “what?”

Khushi shrugged her shoulders like “who knows?” Sitting on the couch, they waited for Pooja. Arnav gestured for Khushi to sit next to him. Khushi moved towards him a little. Arnav pulled her close to him and circled her shoulders.

Khushi: Pooja, will come.

Arnav: So what?

Khushi: She will see us being close.

Arnav: She has to… then she won’t feel awkward if she sees us close anytime.

Khushi: Ohh…

Arnav: This is our family, we can’t be in distance. Let children get used to it.

He dashed his head with hers.

They saw Pooja coming with the paper in which she drew something.

Arnav: What’s that?

Pooja: I want to give it to you…

Arnav: For me?

Pooja nodded yes.

Arnav: Okkkkayyyy… give me.

Pooja passed it to Arnav. Arnav got stuck seeing the drawing. A small girl was clutching a man’s finger and a woman standing beside them with a small boy. The pic looked so childish. After all, it was drawn by a child.

Pooja: This is for you… our family pic. Dad, Mom, Pooja, and Ansh.

Arnav: This is so nice… I like it very much. Thank you.

Pooja: Will you show this to Ansh?

Don’t know why this girl’s thoughts always wandering around Ansh? Arnav nodded yes.

Pooja: When will you bring him here?

Arnav: Tomorrow.

Pooja: Wow… really?

Arnav nodded yes.

Khushi: Is it?

Arnav: Yes… I think so.

Pooja hoped joyfully.

In the meanwhile

Ratan’s house

Ratan was shocked to see his wife packing her things. Ratan stopped her when she took the file which is having her college certificates.

Ratan: What are you doing Shantha? Have you gone mad? Just think of our children. Don’t you want them to live their life lavishing?

Shantha: Stop influencing me by using our children. I’m not ready to get enchanted by your words anymore.

Ratan: What will you do for food?

Shantha: Even though I’m not obliged to answer you, I answer because I don’t’ want you to think of myself wrong. Because Wrong people like you could think only wrong about others. It’s not your mistake, it’s human nature.

Ratan: You are forty…. Will you work at this age?

Shantha: If you could stoop so low at this age, I can raise my head at this age.

Ratan: Stop your movie dialogues. Where will you get the job?

Shantha: You used the technology to ruin someone’s life. I used it in the right way. I just asked for a job in my college friend’s WhatsApp group. You won’t believe, I got seven job offers within one hour.

Ratan: it’s not easy to work. You would have almost forgotten everything you studied.

Shantha: I will take care of it. you don’t need to worry about me.

Ratan: Who else other than me would worry about you?

Shantha: Now… you stop the movie dialogues.

Ratan: Do you think I’m acting? Do you forget how we lived?

Shantha: I don’t want to remember the fake life anymore.

She came out taking her bag. Ratan got stuck seeing his son Hritik and daughter Hrithika also were ready to leave the house.

Ratan: Hrithik, you too leaving?

Hrithik: Relationship is based on TRUST… Dad. if you are not loyal to Mom then how could we trust you?

His son left the house not waiting there.

Ratan looked at his daughter. He felt ashamed to face her. She came towards him.

Hrithika: I adored you like my REAL HERO Dad… but you disappointed me. You can’t be my hero… A cheap man like you can’t be my hero…

She shouted. Shantha dragged her out. Ratan didn’t come out. He sat on the couch distraught. He didn’t expect Shantha will be firm in her decision. They got inside the cab. The security called them.

Security: Madamji… may I know where are you going?

Shantha: At present, I’m going to my mom’s place.

Security: Where is her house Madamji?

Hrithik: Why are you asking us?

Security: When you were in the hospital, AC sir inquired about you. He may come again.

Hrithik pressed his mother’s hand before she answers.

Hrithik: Get inside the car. Bring him if he asks anything about us.

Security readily got inside the cab with them. Shantha's mother cried seeing her daughter is back... forever. Shantha's father consoled her. The security felt bad for the aged couple. They treated the Security with coffee.

The security reached Ratan's house after an hour. When the security came back he saw the house is locked from outside.

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 33
Part33

CITY HOSPITAL

A nurse handed over Ansh to Khushi. Pooja hopped to see him. Khushi sat on the chair, letting her see him. Pooja caressed his cheek softly with a lot of excitement.

Pooja: He is so small.

Khushi: Yes… he is a newborn child…

Pooja: Shall we take him home?

Khushi looked at the nurse.

Nurse: yeah… you can take him home. But he needs high care because he could easily get infected.

Pooja: What should we do?

She asked in her babyish voice.

Nurse: You should touch him only after washing your hands. Don’t kiss him often.

Pooja: Can’t I kiss him?

Nurse: You can, only after taking a bath. Make sure that you are clean, before touching him.

Pooja: Then?

Nurse: Mop the floor every day and change the bed sheet every day.

Pooja: Ok.

The doctor came from the room.

Arnav: Good morning, doctor.

Doctor: Good morning AC sir.

Arnav: Shall we take him home?

Doctor: Yeah… take instructions and follow those. Be careful.

Arnav: sure doctor.

Khushi: How is Di?

Doctor: Same… no change.

Arnav gulped down.

Arnav: We are leaving, doctor.

Doctor: Yeah… bring him for a checkup next week.

Arnav: yeah…

After getting a milk power tin from the hospital pharmacy, they left the hospital. Arnav started the bike. Khushi sat with Ansh in her hand whereas Pooja was on the petrol tank.

Arnav(chuckling): It seems, we have to buy a car for our family.

Khushi(smiling): Yeah… our family became big…

Arnav rode the bike to their home.

Arnav opened the door. Khushi kept Ansh on the bed. She didn’t find Pooja behind her. she came searching for her.

Khushi: Where is Pooja?

Arnav: Pooja…? She came behind you.

Khushi: she is not in the room.

Arnav: The door is also closed. She must be here.

They searched for Pooja all over the house. Khushi again came to the room and heard a water sound from the washroom.

Khushi(knocking on the door): Pooja….

Pooja: I’m taking bath…

Khushi: Bath? At this time?

Pooja: Wait… I’m coming…

Khushi: Who asked you to take a bath?

Pooja: Nurse Aunty… didn’t she say, we should be clean?

Arnav smiled at Khushi.

Arnav: I think we should learn from her.

Khushi: Yeah… she is so fast than us.

Arnav: It seems you can give birth to many children. Pooja will take care of them.

Khushi: Children? Really? How many children do you want?

Arnav: I like cricket...

Khushi: So?

Arnav: What about a cricket team?

Khushi: Whaaat!

Arnav laughed, seeing her shocking expression.

Khushi: This is not done.

Arnav: At least a basketball team?

Khushi: God...

Arnav: Hey, please consider...

Khushi: Crazy AC...

They saw Pooja coming out, wrapping a towel. Clutching Khushi’s finger, Pooja dragged her to the washroom.

Pooja: Go and take a bath. I call you if Ansh wakes up.

Khushi nodded yes smilingly and went to the washroom.

Pooja: Dad, you too take a bath in your room.

Arnav: Yeah… going.

He also left. Pooja sat beside sleeping Ansh. She slowly was touching his little fingers, feet, cheek; lovingly… it was nothing but a baby’s cute reaction for her brother. Arnav who witnessed the scene felt so blissful. He couldn’t stop thinking about his Di. He came and sat beside her.

Arnav: What is he saying?

Pooja(putting her index finger on her mouth): Shhhh…. Speak slowly… he is sleeping.

Arnav(whispering): Ok… do you want to take him on your lap?

Pooja(happily): Hannnn…

Arnav: Wait…

Arnav was about to touch him, she stopped.

Pooja: Not now. Let him sleep. I will take him on my lap when he is up.

Arnav(caressing her hair): Ok…

Arnav searched his phone in his pocket, hearing a ring sound. That’s when he remembered that he did put it on charge. He went out and find Aman’s name.

Arnav: Yeah, Aman…

Aman: Sir, Ratan is not at home.

Arnav: Means?

Aman: His wife and children went, leaving him, sir.

Arnav: Where did they go?

Aman: To Mrs Ratan’s parent’s place, sir.

Arnav: Ohh… it seems they have a place to settle down.

Aman: I don’t think so, sir. they don’t seem rich.

Arnav: Ohh… Where did Ratan go?

Aman: Don’t know sir.

Arnav: Ask the security.

Aman: He is the one who told me, sir.

Arnav: What did he say?

Aman: He went to drop Mrs Ratan in her mother’s place, sir.

Arnav: Why did he go?

Aman: For us, sir.

Arnav: I didn’t get it.

Aman: We went for inquiry the previous day, sir. So he wanted to know about Mrs Ratan’s whereabouts to answer us.

Arnav: Ohh…

Aman: When he back home, he saw the house being locked, Sir.

Arnav: Did you try for his NEW number?

Aman: Yes sir. It is switched off.

Arnav: ok fine… we will meet Mr Ratan tomorrow morning. Let’s see. Ratan may return home tonight.

Aman: Ok sir.

They disconnected the call.

Arnav and also Aman had the same set of questions running in their mind. Ratan had a relationship with Stella. He didn’t want the truth to come out. When it was out, he showed himself superior, in front of his wife. He never thought that his wife could stand for herself but she showed she can be strong. But… where did he go? There is no reason for him to have another woman in his life because he knew he was under the killer’s radar. They know how chicken-hearted man Ratan was. He pleaded with them to save him. If this is the case, where did he go? Did he commit suicide as he lost all the respect in society? Or did someone kidnap him? Or the NEW killer had killed him?

Arnav removed his phone and dialled Prince.

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 34
Part34

Arnav’s call was attended by Prince.

Prince: Hi…

Arnav: what about the task which I gave?

Prince: Don’t ask me that. I’m trying to find the location. But I can’t.

Arnav: You mean it’s switched off?

Prince: No… I can get the location even if it is switched off.

Arnav: Then?

Prince: I think the phone should have broken.

Arnav: Can’t you find its last range?

Prince: That I did…

Arnav: Which place?

Prince: At Ratan’s office.

Arnav: Yeah, Ratan also said the same.

Prince: Yeah… the last message from the mobile was a threat to him. After that, his mobile got switched off.

Arnav: ok… thank you.

Prince: Do you think you could find the whole team?

Arnav: Why doubt?

Prince: They seem a suicide squad. That means, they will never reveal their identity. They are ready to kill themselves if they are being caught as Akhilesh did. What are you going to do?

Arnav: Let’ see… bye.

Arnav disconnected the call before Prince tries to make him spit out anything as he doesn’t want to lie more.

……

Arnav and Aman reached Aspire Builders… Ratan’s office. They looked here and there, in a searching manner. They found CCTV cameras in the corridor. They went to the assistant manager. He got nervous seeing them.

Arnav: I’m ACP…

AM:… Arnav…. I know you, sir. I have already seen you here when you came to inquire about Stella.

Aman: Now, we are here to inquire about Ratan.

AM: I can’t believe he could have such an unbelievable other side, sir. He was a very strict officer…

Aman(cutting him): Except Stella… right?

AM: I thought they share a good friendship but never thought this kind…

Arnav: Did Ratan call you?

AM: Yes sir… he did. He called me from the hospital that he couldn’t come to the office for a few days.

Arnav: Do you know where he is?

AM: He must be at home… consoling his wife.

Arnav: Consoling?

AM: Of course, sir… he already lost his respect. He won’t spoil it more. The only way to save the remaining respect is, consoling his wife.

Arnav: She is not with him.

AM: What do you mean, Sir?

He showed a real shock.

Arnav: She left him.

AM: You mean is she going to divorce him?

Arnav: I don’t know that. But, presently she went leaving him.

AM: Ohh God… how is Ratan sir?

Arnav: don’t know. He is not at home.

AM: He may be with his wife.

Arnav: No…

AM: what do you want me to do, sir?

Arnav: I want to see the CCTV camera footage.

AM: Sure, sir.

Taking the intercom, he called someone to his cabin. A middle-aged man got inside.

AM: Suraj, show the CCTV camera footage to ACP sir.

Suraj: Yes sir.

He sat on the chair, in front of the system.

Suraj: which one sir?

Arnav: Corridor’s camera… Ratan’s last day in the office.

Suraj: Ok sir.

He started showing.

Arnav: Show us, morning’s footage.

Suraj rewind it. There… Ratan was entering. A man who was covering his head with a hoodie, collided with him.

Arnav: Stop….

Suraj paused the video.

Arnav: Suraj…

Suraj: Yes sir?

Arnav: Zoom the footage when the man bangs on Ratan.

Suraj zoomed the video. They saw the man taking Ratan’s mobile from his pocket. he kept the mobile in his hoodie pocket swiftly.

AM(shockingly): Sir, he is stealing his mobile, sir….

The man was facing his back to the camera. Arnav and Aman spared a meaningful glance, seeing Ratan smiling at him. He spoke to the man for thirty more seconds and left the place, shaking hands. So, the man was a well-known person to Ratan. Their easy talk shows that clearly.

Arnav: Did anyone come, searching for Ratan that day?

AM: No sir…

Aranv: How are you so sure?

AM: when he came to the office, he always asks the Receptionist about the visitors. That day also he asked and I was there when he asked. The receptionist said NO.

Arnav: Ohh...

Arnav: Rewind it.

Suraj rewind it.

Arnav: Slowly….

Suraj zoomed-in slowly…. They saw a shocking expression on Ratna’s face. Then he composed himself and smiled at the hoodie man.

Arnav: Thank you for your cooperation.

AM: My pleasure, sir.

Arnav: This is my number. Inform me if Ratan calls you.

AM: Sure, sir.

Arnav and Aman didn’t speak until they reach the jeep.

Aman(before staring at the jeep): What do you think, sir?

Arnav: Call Ratan’s house security and ask whether he came or not.

Aman: Yes sir.

As Arnav said, Aman called the security.

Security: Good morning, sir.

Aman: Ratan came back?

Security: Not yet, sir.

Aman: Did he go by car or bike?

Security: Car sir… there is no car in the shed.

Aman: Ok… text me the car number.

Security: Right away, sir.

Aman disconnected the call and received the message from the security in a few seconds.

At the same time, Ratan’s car was found at the outstrike Delhi by cops.

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 35
Part35

Arnav called the control room and asked to pass the message to all the check posts to search for Ratan’s car.

Arnav: This is ACP Arnav. Note down the car number and pass it to all the check posts and tolls. Ask them to check if the car passes.

The PC who noted down the number got stuck. A few minutes ago the control room got another message about the same car which was found in outstrike Delhi.

PC: Sir, one minute…

Arnav: Yeah…

PC: The car already found, in the Agra route, sir.

Arnav: When?

PC: Half an hour ago, sir.

Arnav: Who informed about it?

PC: Don’t know, sir. Someone informed me about it from a public telephone.

Arnav: What did he say?

PC: He said, the car was standing alone since the day before yesterday night.

Arnav: Day before yesterday night?

PC: Yes sir.

Arnav: Did he give any other information?

PC: No sir.

Aranv: Ok… fine. I will go there.

Cutting the call, Arnav ordered Aman.

Arnavv: Take a turn towards Agra. Ratan’s car is there.

Aman(taking a turn in Agra route): Only car or….?

Arnav: No… only car.

Aman: Where would he have gone, leaving the car?

Arnav was thinking of not answering.

Aman: Do you think someone kidnapped him?

Arnav: I have no idea.

They reached the spot after crossing the tactic traffic of Delhi. They saw a PC sitting beside the car. He saluted Arnav.

Arnav: Did you check it?

PC: Yes sir. There is enough petrol in the car. The engine is also fit and fine. It’s starting…

Arnav: Starting?

PC: Yes sir, Key was there in the dashboard, sir.

Arnav: Hmmm…

Arnav and Aman checked the car thoroughly, not leaving a single bit of place but they got nothing. The car was being wiped off completely. They looked at one another, sighing.

They returned to their respective houses.

When Arnav came home, Khushi was searching for something.

Arnav: What are you searching for?

Khushi: Pooja…

Arnav(panicking): Pooja? Where is she?

Khushi: We are playing hide and seek.

Arnav huffed in relief, rolling his eyes.

Khushi went to every room one by one but she couldn’t find Pooja anywhere. She sat on the couch pouting.

Khushi: Pooja… I agree with my defeat. Come out.

They heard Pooja’s giggle. She came out of her room.

Khushi(dropping her jaw): Were you in your room?

Pooja (giggling): Yes… you forgot to search my room. I was under the bed, hiding.

Khushi: I didn’t think you will be hiding in the easiest place. I thought you will be hiding somewhere.

Pooja giggled like hell. Arnav smiled nodding no and went to take bath.

Pooja: Dad, you too join us.

Khushi looked at him smiling, teasingly.

Arnav: Yeah… sure. I will just come.

Pooja: Come fast, taking a bath.

Arnav: Yeah… a few minutes….

He stood under the shower, thinking about the case. Suddenly, he opened his eyes as something hit his mind. He recalled what just Pooja and Khushi talked about. How could he miss the simple logic? Why didn’t he think of checking Ratan’s house? What if he gets a clue in his house? Yeah… the killer may leave a clue there. At least, a fingerprint…if he is not a professional killer.

Wrapping a towel, he rushed out. Khushi and Pooja saw him surprisingly.

Khushi: Have you finished bathing?

Arnav: I have to go…

Changing into a decent dress, he raced while dialling Aman.

Aman who just reached home attended the call.

Aman: Yes sir…

Arnav: Come to Ratan’s home.

Aman: Ratan’s home?

Arnav: Yeah… I started.

He said kicking his bike.

Aman: I too, sir.

He jumped on his bike.

When Arnav reached Ratan’s house, Aman was waiting for him with security.

Aman: Any clue, Sir?

Arnav (to security): Did you inquire anyone about how Ratan went from home?

Security: No sir. It was already dark when I reached home that day. I didn’t inquire anyone, sir. I saw the house is locked and the car was not at the shed. Sir (Ratan) would have gone somewhere I supposed.

Arnav: Do you have a spare key?

Security: The spare key should be inside the home, sir. Or maybe, with Madam.

Arnav: Give me Ratan’s son’s number.

Security: Yes sir.

Arnav dialled Hrithk’s number.

Arnav: This is ACP Arnav.

Hrithik: yes sir…

Arnav: Could you come to your home?

Hrithik: Why sir…? Please don’t listen to THAT MAN’s words sir… I’m not ready to trust him anymore.

Arnav: Would you let me talk?

Hrithik: Sorry sir… tell me.

Arnav: Your father is missing.

Hrithik(murmuring): Who knows with whom he is spending?

Arnav: We are here in your home for inquiry. I don’t want you to disturb your mother. That’s why I called you.

Hrithik: Ok, sir… I will be there in half an hour.

Arnav: Thanks.

They disconnected the call.

Arnav moved in, observing everything keenly. There was enough space, around the building. He roamed around the building, checking its windows and back door. His step slowed down as something dragged his attention. He saw big size ANTs are coming out, through a window. He tried to open the window but it was closed from inside. He called the security. He came rushing.

Arnav: Is this room kitchen?

Security: No, sir. The kitchen is on the front side.

Arnav: What room is this?

Security: This is a study room, sir.

Arnav: Study room? If it is a study room, why these ants are coming from the room?

Aman: They might have left some eatable in the room, sir.

Arnav: I don’t think it’s possible.

Aman: Why sir?

Arnav: There is no one in the home for the past two days. And before that, they were not in the mood of studying; eating something, as there was a big mess going on in their life.

Aman: You are right, sir… but, do you think these ANTs could play any role here?

Arnavv: Of course… the MAIN ROLE… lets Hrithik come. We have to break the lock.

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 36
Part36

Ratan’s son Hrithik got down from the bike, putting side stand while removing his sunglass. The security ran towards him.

Security: Chotte sab, he is ACP sir.

Hrithik: Hello sir… I’m Hrithik.

He extended his hand for a shake. Arnav responded to him.

Arnav(clutching his palm): Arnav…

Hrithik: Why did you call me, sir?

Arnav: Your father is missing.

Hrithik(with disinterest): Ohhh…

Arnav: We are investigating. So, we would like to check the house. I think we may get some clue.

Hrithik: But we don’t have the key, Sir. you can break the door if you want.

Arnav: We have to… we have no other choice.

Hrithik: Go ahead, sir.

Arnav gestured to Aman.

Aman(to the security): Can I get a hammer?

Security: Sure sir… it will be in the car shed.

He ran towards the shed and came with a hammer. Breaking the door, they entered. Arnav directly went to the particular room from where the ANTs coming out. He slowly pushed the door and the scene made his eyes widen. Aman got shocked whereas Hrithik turned his face couldn’t bear the sight.

ANTs were eating, Ratan’s lifeless and half necked body, which was lying on the floor. His mouth, hands, and legs were being tied tightly. An empty chocolate syrup bottle was also lying on the floor. It seems the chocolate syrup was poured on him. his body almost lost its exact structure.

In a few minutes, all the crew reached Ratan’s home. The medical team faced a tough time clearing the ANTs.

Aman: We have to take the body to post-mortem sir but cleaning these Ants is not that easy.

Arnav: Yeah… we can’t use any medicine to kill the Ant as it will change the entire post-mortem report.

Aman: What we can do, sir?

Arnav thought about it but the medical team doesn’t think much. They carried the body casually.

Arnav: They are experts… we worried unnecessarily.

Aman: Yes sir.

They saw Hrithik standing all shock. They feel bad for the boy. After all, Ratan is his father.

Arnav(touching his shoulder): I don’t know what to say. Please compose yourself… Don’t lose hope. You should be supportive of your mother.

Hrithik: I have never seen this kind of ANTs in our house before, sir. I think someone intentionally brings them here.

Arnav and Aman spared a meaningful glance.

Arnav: Do you suspect anyone?

Hrithik: I don’t think it would be the killer team, sir.

Arnav: Means?

Hrithik: This is not their method of killing. They simply burn the people… that too after making them unconscious. But, this does not seem so. The killer should have PERSONAL issues with Dad.

Arnav: Do you know someone like that?

Hrithik: Actually, I don’t want to say any name without proof, sir.

Arnav understood that he is suspected of someone and he knows WHO that was. But Hrithik is hesitating to open it up because he was not sure of it.

Arnav: We won’t arrest anyone just because you suspect. But it will surely help us to take the case further.

Hrithik: I will call you later. I want to be with my mother now.

Arnav nodded yes. Hrithik left the house.

Aman: What do you think, sir?

Arnav: He strongly suspects someone. Maybe… he knows the killer.

Aman: How could we get to know that, sir?

As av: We may get it from Mrs Ratan. Let’s go.

……..

GH

Arnav entered the mortuary with Aman. A doctor in their fifties, who was wearing executive specs smiled at Arnav. Dr Mathew was almost done with Ratan’s body.

Mathew: It’s a pure ANT bite death. Ratan should have struggled a lot before leaving his life. It was pure torture like hell.

Arnav: When did he die?

Mathew: Today morning…

Arnav: Just today morning?

Mathew: Yeah…

Arnav: you mean, he was bearing the ant bite for two days?

Mathew: Must be… his mouth got stuffed tightly with clothing so that, he was unable to make noise. The killer himself should have brought the ants because the ant’s wound says that the ants started biting him in the same evening after his wife left him.

Arnav: Any other wounds doctor?

Mathew: Slight scratches…. That’s all. Maybe… the killer must have been a strong man. He should have tied Ratan before him composing himself.

Arnav: Mmm…

Mathew: The killers became very smart these days.

Aman: We are not less, doctor.

Mathew: I didn’t deny… but you must be smarter to catch them.

Aman: We will… very soon.

Mathew: All the best.

Dr Mathew signed the post mortem report and handed it to Arnav. When they came out, they saw Ratan’s family waiting … all crying. His wife screamed like hell falling on his body. A wife is a wife… no matter how bad her husband is. Arnav supposed.

Taking a signature from Hrithik, Aman handed Ratan’s body to them.

In the meanwhile

The forensic department was searching, inch by inch in Ratan’s house. Mrs Arthi… the team head also was keenly watching them. Something attracted her which was lying in the corner of the study room.

Arthi: Mr Chopra…

He called one of the forensic men.

Chopra: Yes, Ma’am…?

Arthi: Look at there…

Chopra took it in his hand and showed it to her. Arthi’s eyes widened seeing that.

It was a golden “CROSS” pendent.

To be continued….

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 37
Part37

Arnav and Aman spared a confused glance, seeing the house locked. Arnav knocked on the opposite door. A man in his early forties opened the door.

Man: Yes, sir?

Arnav: I’m ACP Arnav. Where is Edwin?

Man: He sold out the house, sir.

Arnav(shocking): When?

Man: Last month, sir. (he paused for seconds) His wife was killed, sir. After that, he looked so stressed. He had even given his SON to someone.

Arnav: Whaaaat! Do you mean someone adopted his son?

Man: Yes, sir.

Arnav: Do you know who adopted his son?

Man: No sir.

Arnav(sighed): Ok… Look at this.

He showed him the mobile. it was a pic of the CROSS pendant.

Arnav: Do you ever see this pendant?

Man: Of course, I saw this pendant on Edwin’s neck.

Arnav: Are you sure?

Man: Yes, sir.

Arnav received a call from the commissioner.

Arnav: Yes, sir.

Commi: Come to the office… immediately.

Arnav: Yes sir.

He reached the commissioner's office with Aman. They saluted the commissioner.

Commi: someone called you.

Arnav: Who sir?

Commi: He said nothing. He wants to talk to you.

Arnav nodded yes.

Again the phone rang. The commissioner attended it.

Commi: Yes… yeah…

He kept the receiver down, turning on the speaker.

“ACP sir”

Arnav: Yes… speaking…

“Guess me”

Arnav looked at the Commissioner. He nodded yes and instructed someone to trace the call.

Arnav: Edwin….?

“What a guess, sir? Yes… it’s Edwin Samuel”

Arnav: Where are you?

Edwin: Somewhere in India… travelling to somewhere…

Arnav: Why did you kill Ratan?

Edwin: If you could guess my name then definitely you would have guessed the reason also… and I know you knew the reason.

Arnav: Look, if you surrender…

Edwin: Why should I?

Arnav: You are a killer.

Edwin: whom I killed?

Arnav: Ratan…

Edwin: Wrong. I just provided food for ANTs.

Arnav: Shut up… he was alive when you did that.

Edwin: I’m also alive….still…. has been dying every minute…

Arnav: What you did was utterly wrong.

Edwin: What about Ratan? What he did is right? He killed my happy family, he killed my inner peace, he killed my sleep, he killed everything. And he is the reason for my wife’s murder. Is there any punishment for him? Could your LAW punish him?

Arnav was silent.

Edwin: Why are you silent AC sir? You couldn’t answer because there is no way to punish such a B**** like Ratan.

Arnav: But you gave him a cruel punishment.

Edwin: He just suffered for two days. But I’m going to suffer in the betrayal for my lifetime. What about that? I killed him only one time… but he is a KILLER of HEART. I’m dying every day because of him. He deserves more. He will search for some other girl in some days. Because he has no heart. and I’m not impotent to leave the B**** who touched my wife ACP…. (he shouted in anger)

Arnav: What are you going to do?

Edwin: I don’t know. I’m going to travel all over India. I will visit every small church.

Arnav: For remission?

Edwin: No… why should I? I did nothing wrong. if you think like a HUSBAND, you will agree with me.

He disconnected the call.

The commissioner got information from the control room.

Commi: Yes…

CR: Sir, the call was from INDORE, Madhya Pradesh.

Comment: Indore?

CR: Yes sir… and the mobile signal got disconnected.

Commi: Keep tracing until he switches on the mobile again.

CR: Yes sir.

Arnav looked at Aman who spilt a mockery smile. If a man spoke with guts, will he switch his mobile on?

Commi: It’s getting intensive Arnav.

Arnav: Yes sir…

Commi: I never imagine, the extramarital afire case will cause so much in society.

Aman: Everything is just news until it happens to us, sir.

Commissioner looked at Arnav who is gulping hard.

Arnav: Relive me from this case, sir.

Commi(shockingly): But why?

Arnav: I don’t think I will give my best, in this case, sir. this is such a case that makes me fight between LAW and REALITY. It should not be done, sir.

Commi: but you did your best.

Arnav: But I’m not satisfied. I’m facing a tough time controlling my emotions, sir.

Commi: Take two days and decide.

Saluting the commissioner, Arnav left the place. Aman silently followed him.

Aman: Why did you take such a decision, sir?

Arnav: I mean it, Aman. Even though Edwin is a killer… I don’t think he is wrong. What Edwin asked me is right. Being a husband, I will kill the person if someone tried to touch my wife forget about affaire. (he said gritting his teeth) Ratan’s behaviour towards Stella made Edwin Heartless. Ratan killed Edwin’s HEART. Ratan is more dangerous than Edwin. Ratan like HEART KILLER deserves it.

Aman: What’s next sir?

Arnav: Going to Indore…

Aman: You said, you want to get relieved?

Arnav: I want to make sure where Edwin is.

Aman: But I don’t think Edwin will be there.

Arnav: Of course, he won’t be there.

Aman: If he won’t be there, how will we get information about him?

Arnav: Any talented criminal would leave a simple clue… he is also done…

Arnav smirked at frowning Aman.

To be continued…

 

[Rawat@7]

Chapter 38
(Last part)​

Arnav: Any talented criminal would leave a simple clue… he is also done…

Arnav smirked at frowning Aman.

Arnav: I’m going to Indore.

Aman: When, sir?

Arnav: Started.

Aman: I too join you, sir.

Arnav: Sure.

Aman started to ride the jeep towards the Airport. Arnav arranged the tickets through a travel agency while travelling to the Airport. They boarded the flight.

Arnav: It will take one and half an hour to reach Indore.

Aman: Sir…. can I ask you something?

Arnav: Yeah…

Aman: You said all the criminals will leave at least a clue somehow…

Arnav nodded yes.

Aman: Did you get the clue from Edwin’s call?

Arnav: Yes…

Aman: What’s that, sir?

Arnav: INDORE.

Aman: INDORE? What clue did you get in that?

Arnav: If my guess is right, Edwin is not in India. He should have left for some other country.

Aman: He said he will visit churches?

Arnav: He doesn’t need to tell the truth. He is diverting us. Indore is not a big city like Delhi or Mumbai but it has an international Airport. Very recently Indore Airport got the international status. No one will think that he could leave India from Indore. That’s why he should have called us from Indore. That’s why he would have sold out his house. he had done that taking time before killing Ratan.

Aman: If it’s your doubt, we can inquire from Delhi.

Arnav: It won’t help.

Aman: Why?

Arnav: He would not have used his original name and address. His passport and visa would have been attached to his ADHAR card. He will easily get caught if he books tickets in his original name. So, to know the truth we have to go to Indore to identify only by seeing his photo.

Aman was curious to know whether Arnav’s guess is right.

They landed in Indore after one and half an hour. Arnav entered into the international airport terminal’s inquiry section. A man in his early thirties is patiently answering people.

Arnav: I’m ACP Arnav from Delhi.

Man: What can I do for you, sir?

Arnav: Any international flight departure today?

Man: Yes sir… Singapore flight got departed at noon.

Arnav: Can I see the passenger’s list of the flight?

Man: Sure sir…

He turned the computer screen towards Arnav and showed him the passengers.

Arnav keenly watched it. His eyes widened for a while. He saw Edwin with a beard in the name of Sriram. His lips spilt a smirk when he saw Edwin’s son' nam also on the passenger’s list. Aman got awe stuck. he looked at Arnavv with an open mouth.

Arnav: Thank you…

They came out of the terminal.

Aman: You are right sir. Edwin went to Singapore with his son.

Arnav: Hmm…

Aman: What are you going to do, sir?

Arnav: Let’s see what our department does.

Aman: Means, are not you going to tell about Edwin?

Arnav: What do you think?

Aman: please don’t say, sir.

Arnav: I won’t if the commissioner relieved me from this case.

Aman(sighed): Ok sir.

They returned to Delhi.

Pooja rushed to Arnav, shouting. Khushi peeped from the kitchen and smiled.

Arnav: A few minutes, baby… I will just come, take a bath.

Pooja: Okkkkeyy

Arnav: What your brother is doing?

Pooja: That sleepyhead is sleeping…

She giggled.

Arnav went to the washroom laughing. In a few minutes, he came out wiping his hair. He directly went to the Kitchen where Khushi is rolling roties.

Arnav: Give me something. I’m hungry.

Khushi: Wait…

Taking a plate, she filled it with roties and aalu. She extended the plate.

Arnav: Thank you.

Khushi also came with the plate to feed it to Pooja. She switched the channel into the news.

Arnav got a call from the commissioner.

Arnav: Yes, sir.

Comm: Have you considered, not relieving from the case?

Arnav: There is nothing to consider, sir. Please relieve me.

Comm: Ok fine. Submit your complete investigation report.

Arnav: ASAP sir.

Cutting the call, Arnav looked at Khushi who smiled at him.

Arnav: It’s very hard to work between mind and heart.

Khushi: I understand.

Arnav: It’s very easy to deal with criminals but this case is entwining with emotions. Many times I struggled between the LAW and the REASON. I had never thought, keeping me in the criminal’s position in my previous cases but this time I did that often.

Khushi: Anyhow, you got relieved from the case. so relax.

They heard Ansh mewl. Pooja was the one who ran to the room first. Washing her hand, Khushi picked him up. Pooja passed her the feeding bottle. Ansh’s mouth got sealed by the feeding bottle.

When she came to the living room Arnav had been finished eating. Khushi kept Ansh on his lap.

Khushi: I will take him back.

Arnav: No problem. You eat.

Arnav got a call from Aman.

Arnav: Haan Aman…

Aman: It seems, Edwin’s time is good. You got relieved from the case.

Arnav(smiling): Yeah…

Aman: Will you include our Indore visit in your investigation report?

Arnav: Nope. Let the next officer find it out.

Aman: I don’t think he will find out.

Arnav: you can give him a hint.

Aman: Why should I?

Arnav: Won’t you?

Aman: I also got relieved from the case, sir.

Arnav: But why?

Aman: I too have emotions, sir… I can feel… no matter I am directly got affected or not.

Arnav: Hmm…

Aman: Bye sir.

Arnav: Bye.

Disconnecting the call, Arnav concentrated on Ansh who just completed the bottle of milk.

Khushi: I had seen the news. Ratan’s death was so cruel.

Arnav nodded yes.

Khushi: My Bhabi saved my brother from such a cruel death.

Arnav: Why are you thinking unwantedly?

Khushi: Could you say there is no chance of it?

Arnav: I can’t.

Khushi: What do you think of Ratan’s death?

Arnav: According to me, Ratan is cruel than his death. He has no heart. HEART KILLER like him deserves death. He had broken two happy families and their trust. More to it, he didn’t repent to it. So, he won’t deserve pity. Thank God, his wife got to know his real face before his death. Or else she would have cried for the whole life for the undeserving Ratan and would have lost her confidence too.

Khushi: You are right. Men like Ratan won’t deserve pure tears. Women should understand the reality before trusting anyone. Many men are pretending as they love so much just not to get caught. They don’t think of the consequence of broken trust.

Arnav was looking at her lovingly. He extended his hand asking her to come. Khushi sat beside him. Arnav sneaked her shoulders and made her lean on his shoulder. Pooja who went to the washroom came and saw the scene.

Pooja: Hug me too….

She rushed towards them while shouting. She jumped on the couch and hugged Arnav. Arnav kissed her forehead.

Arnav: We all got connected to one point. This case is unforgettable in my life. It gave me a family. I think we should forget our past and focus on our future.

Khushi nodded yes.

Arnav: Pooju, let’s go to the ice cream shop in the evening.

Pooja: Heyyyyy…. Shall we take Ansh also?

Arnav: Yeah sure.

Pooja: Jolly…..

Arnav looked at Khushi.

Khushi: You look tired. We can go tomorrow.

Arnav: Just because I’m tired, I can't postpone my duties… be it taking Pooja to the ice cream shop or be it taking my wife to the bed.

He whispered the last line.

Khushi’s face became red in shyness.

Arnav: Be ready.

Arnav went to the room taking Ansh. Pooja followed him. Keeping Ansh on the bed he sat beside him and started talking to Pooja which he missed in Ratan’s case tension. Kushi leaned on the door and admired them smilingly.

LONG LIVE THEIR CUTE FAMILY.

The End.​