The Drive to Destiny

AUTHOR'S NOTE:3999

Hello mere pyaare readers! 🌸

Sabse pehle, ek bada sa SORRY for the delay in updates! 🙈 Main jaanti hoon ki aap log eagerly wait karte ho naye chapters ke liye, aur mujhe bhi aapke saath yeh safar share karne ka utna hi excitement hota hai! Lekin thoda hectic schedule aur upcoming projects ki wajah se mujhe apni posting schedule reschedule karni padi. Ab se "Mine Yes!" ke naye chapters Monday aur Thursday between 1 to 6 PM (IST) upload honge! 📝✨

Aaj ka scene likhte hue bohot maza aaya! Anaya aur Janvi ki nok-jhok, unka dosti ka pyaara rishta—yeh sab mujhe likhne me ek alag hi khushi deta hai! Yeh un chhoti-chhoti baatein hi toh ek story ko zinda banati hain, haina? 🥰

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Stay dreamy and keep turning pages!

– PENOLA.S

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The low rumble of the engine filled the sleek, black SUV as it maneuvered through the dimly lit streets of the city. The streetlights flickered past like fleeting thoughts, their golden glow casting long shadows on the pavement. Inside the car, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation, the kind that stretched in silence, unspoken yet understood.

Rudra sat in the passenger seat, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp, scanning the streets as if he were calculating every move before it even happened. His fingers drummed idly against his knee, the only sign of the restlessness he kept hidden beneath his composed exterior.

Ravi, behind the wheel, stole a glance at him before speaking.

"You sure you wanna do this right now?" Ravi's voice was steady, but there was an edge to it—a subtle hint of concern mixed with curiosity.

Rudra smirked, the kind of smirk that never failed to unsettle people.

"Why? You think I should wait for an invitation with a golden seal?"

Ravi exhaled sharply through his nose. "I just think it's… sudden. Kunal's been quiet for months, and now, out of nowhere, he wants to meet? It doesn't sit right with me."

Rudra finally turned his head, pinning Ravi with a look that was both amused and dangerous. "That's exactly why I want to meet him. He's been biding his time, waiting for the right moment. And now, he thinks it's his move. Let's see what he's got."

Ravi clenched the steering wheel. He knew Rudra well enough to understand that when he had that look in his eyes—the one that danced between arrogance and amusement—there was no talking him out of it.

"Fine. But you're not driving back after. I always end up driving anyway."

Rudra huffed out a quiet laugh, a rare sound. "That's because you're my assistant. It's part of your job."

Ravi rolled his eyes. "Oh, so I'm just your driver now?"

"If the shoe fits." Rudra leaned his head back against the seat, watching as the cityscape blurred outside the tinted windows.

The conversation faded into silence, but it wasn't uncomfortable. It was the kind of silence that came with years of understanding, the kind that didn't need to be filled with unnecessary words.

After a moment, Rudra pulled out his phone and tapped the screen, his expression shifting slightly.

Ravi didn't have to ask to know what—or rather, who—he was looking at.

"Checking on her again?" Ravi asked, though they both knew it wasn't a question.

Rudra didn't look up. "She's still in the office."

Ravi sighed, shaking his head as he made a turn. "You do realize she's a grown woman who can take care of herself, right?"

"I know." Rudra's voice was calm, but there was something in his tone that suggested otherwise.

His screen displayed the security feed of Singhaniya Corp's office. There she was, sitting at her desk, completely immersed in her work. The soft glow of her monitor cast a gentle light on her face, her brows slightly furrowed as she typed.

She looked… peaceful.

Unaware of the chaos that surrounded her.

Unaware that she was being watched.

Unaware that he would burn down the entire world before letting it touch her.

Rudra's fingers tightened around the phone, his jaw clenching for a fraction of a second before he forced himself to relax.

Ravi glanced at him and smirked. "Damn, man. You're whipped."

Rudra's eyes flicked up, sharp and unimpressed. "Shut up."

Ravi only chuckled, shaking his head. "Denial isn't a good look on you, boss."

Rudra ignored him, shutting off his phone and slipping it back into his pocket.

"Just drive, Ravi."

Ravi smirked but didn't push further.

The car sped down the road, the city stretching before them like a battlefield yet to be conquered. And somewhere in that battlefield, Kunal Rajawat was waiting.

But so was Rudra Singhaniya.

And if there was one thing Ravi knew for certain—it was that his boss never lost a war.

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The Power Play

The sleek, matte black Mercedes-Maybach S680 rolled to a slow stop in front of Singhaniya Hotel, its tinted windows reflecting the golden glow of the towering five-star establishment. The doormen, dressed in crisp black and gold uniforms, straightened their posture the moment they spotted the familiar vehicle.

As the door swung open, Rudra Singhaniya stepped out, the air shifting around him as if the very presence of his name carried weight. His charcoal-gray suit clung to his powerful frame, his movements calculated, effortless. Behind him, Ravi followed, his stance alert, his sharp gaze scanning the surroundings like a soldier trained for war.

The grand entrance of Singhaniya Hotel was a marvel of modern opulence—Italian marble floors gleamed under the chandelier's warm glow, the lobby's towering glass walls reflected the city's shimmering skyline, and the subtle scent of expensive cologne mixed with the faintest trace of whiskey lingered in the air.

As they strode inside, the hotel staff immediately snapped to attention.

"Good evening, Mr. Singhaniya."

"Welcome, sir."

Respect dripped from every syllable, their heads bowing slightly in acknowledgment of the man who owned this empire. Even the guests turned their heads, whispering amongst themselves.

Rudra barely spared them a glance.

He walked with the confidence of a king who knew his kingdom, his hands adjusting the cuffs of his Rolex as he moved towards the private elevators.

Just as he was about to step in, Aarav emerged from a side hallway, his brows lifting the moment he saw his older brother.

"Bhai?" His tone was questioning, but his gaze flickered towards Ravi, already sensing something was off.

Ravi, ever the informer, wasted no time. "It's Kunal. He arranged this dinner. Wants to discuss business."

Aarav scoffed. "Business? Now that's funny. I wasn't aware Kunal Rajawat had anything of value to discuss."

Aarav folded his arms, unimpressed. "Oh, so now he thinks he's a tech visionary? That's cute."

Rudra remained silent, stepping into the private elevator. Aarav exhaled in frustration but followed.

The elevator doors opened to the private dining suite—a lavish, dimly lit room with a stunning view of the skyline. The black marble walls, crystal chandeliers, and the long glass dining table set for negotiations screamed wealth and power.

Aarav murmurs. "I swear, this guy shows up every couple of years just to remind us he exists."

Ravi smirked. "Well, he did work under the Singhaniyas for three years. Maybe he still feels like part of the family."

Aarav let out a dry chuckle. "Family? Please. He worked under us because he had no choice. And now that he's built something of his own, he thinks he can waltz back in here and demand a seat at the table?"

Rudra remained silent, his expression unreadable, but there was an unmistakable sharpness in his gaze.

The elevator doors opened, revealing the private dining suite—a lavish, dimly lit space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. The walls were lined with black marble, and the centerpiece of the room was a long glass dining table set with fine crystal and silverware.

At the far end, near the massive windows, Kunal Rajawat stood with his back turned, gazing out at the city. His posture was poised, his dark green suit tailored to perfection, his presence carrying an effortless authority. standing near the window, his back to them, was Kunal Rajawat.

The man carried an aura of control, his tailored dark green suit pristine, his posture relaxed yet assertive. The light from the cityscape cast sharp shadows along the cut of his jaw, highlighting the silent power he exuded.

His assistant, standing beside him, cleared his throat and announced, "They're here, sir."

Kunal turned around, a slow, deliberate movement, his lips curling into a slight smile.

"Ah, Mr. Singhaniya." His voice was smooth, laced with amusement. Then his gaze flickered to Aarav, his smirk deepening. "Or should I say... the Singhaniya brothers?"

Aarav smirked, but there was an edge to it. "Oh, Mr. Rajawat. Long time, no meet. You don't seem like a friend anymore." His tone was mocking, but there was a sting beneath it. "Then again, were you ever one? Or was it just business, as always?"

Kunal let out a chuckle, unbothered. "Friendship is a fragile concept, Aarav. Especially when family names dictate loyalty." Kunal paused a bit and continued "Friendship and business rarely mix well, Aarav. I think we both know that by now."

Rudra finally spoke, his voice calm but commanding. "Cut to the chase, Kunal. Why are we here?"

Kunal tilted his head slightly, studying him. Then, with a measured step, he walked towards the table and gestured toward the two empty chairs.

"Have a seat."

Kunal took a seat at the table, swirling his glass of whiskey before looking up. "A partnership. But not in hotels. Not in hospitality. Something bigger."

Rudra arched a brow, intrigued but unreadable. "Go on."

Rudra and Aarav exchanged a glance, but neither backed down. They moved forward, settling into the seats across from Kunal.

As soon as they sat, a waiter entered, pouring them each a glass of whiskey before stepping back in silent respect.

Kunal swirled his glass, watching the amber liquid dance before speaking.

"We've danced around this for years, Singhaniya. But I think it's time we acknowledge what's in front of us. Business is changing. The city is changing. And it would be foolish for either of us to ignore that."

Aarav snorted. "And let me guess—you want us to acknowledge you as part of it?"

Kunal didn't blink. "I'm already a part of it. You just haven't accepted it yet."

Kunal leaned forward slightly. "The world is changing, Singhaniya. It's not just about who owns the most luxurious hotels anymore. It's about who controls the future. And the future is technology."

Aarav scoffed. "You're a Rajawat. You own chains of five-star resorts and a hospitality empire. What do you know about technology?"

Kunal's smirk didn't waver. "I know that while you two are busy building skyscrapers, I'm building the future."

Rudra's eyes darkened slightly with interest. "And your older brother? Does he approve of this?"

Kunal's expression turned colder, sharper. "My brother has nothing to do with this. He's too busy expanding our hotels, running the family legacy. But me?" His smirk returned, dangerous and confident. "I'm not interested in the past. I'm creating something far bigger than that."

Rudra studied him for a moment. "So you worked under Tech High for three years just for this? To build your foundation?"

Kunal leaned back, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "I worked under your company because I wanted to understand how to shape the world. Hotels? Hospitals? That's my family's past. But the future? The future is in AI, automation, digital security, and next-generation applications. And I plan to be at the top of it."

Rudra took a slow sip of his whiskey, his gaze locked on Kunal. "What exactly are you proposing?"

Kunal leaned forward, his expression smooth, unreadable. "A partnership. A real one. Your empire and mine—merged. Together, we control the hotel industry in this city. Together, we dictate who rises and who falls."

Aarav let out a sharp laugh. "You think we need you?"

Kunal's smirk never wavered. "I think you're smart enough to know that ignoring me would be a mistake."

Kunal met his gaze without hesitation. "No. But I think you need to consider your options carefully. You have power, Singhaniyas. But power is only as strong as its alliances."

Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken truths. The air in the room was thick with tension, a silent war of power being waged between men who refused to bow to anyone.

Rudra set his glass down with a soft clink against the table. His expression was unreadable, his mind already calculating the risks, the benefits, the potential traps in Kunal's words.

"And if we refuse?"

Kunal smiled, but there was nothing warm about it. "Then I'll build my own empire. And one day, you'll have to acknowledge me anyway. The question is—will it be as an ally or a rival?"

The tension in the room was electric, neither side willing to back down.

This wasn't just business.

This was a power play.

And the next move would change everything.

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A Deal That Shapes the Future

Silence stretched in the opulent private suite, the air charged with a tension that only powerful men could command. The city lights shimmered beyond the massive glass windows, but inside, the real power play was unfolding.

Rudra Singhaniya leaned back in his chair, his fingers laced together as he studied Kunal Rajawat. Aarav sat beside him, his expression unreadable, though the sharp glint in his eyes betrayed his skepticism.

Kunal, unfazed, took a measured sip of his whiskey before placing the glass down with a soft clink. His confidence never wavered.

"I'm not here to play games, Singhaniya," Kunal began, his voice smooth but firm. "I'm here to talk about the future. My family's empire is built on hospitality, but I don't plan on spending my life managing resorts and hotels. I want to build something that lasts. Something that changes the world."

Aarav scoffed. "And that 'something' is?"

Kunal's gaze flickered to him before settling back on Rudra. "Modern hospitals. Integrated with cutting-edge technology. AI-powered diagnostics, robotic surgeries, advanced patient care—hospitals that don't just treat illnesses but redefine medicine itself."

Rudra arched a brow. "And you expect Tech High to be part of this?"

Kunal smirked. "Not just part of it. I want Tech High as a partner. Your company has the most advanced AI and automation technologies in the country. I want to use that expertise to create the most futuristic hospitals this world has seen. From smart patient monitoring to AI-assisted surgeries—this isn't just about business, Rudra. It's about revolutionizing healthcare."

Aarav let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "So let me get this straight. You've spent years working under Tech High just to understand our operations, and now you want us to join hands with you in some grand vision to turn Rajawat hospitals into futuristic medical centers? Do you even have the authority to make this decision, or will your brother be breathing down your neck the moment you shake hands with us?"

Kunal's smirk faded slightly, replaced by a sharp edge. "My brother has no say in this. He's stuck in the past, expanding resorts and chasing luxury. I have a different vision, and I don't need his approval to build it. I don't want to run my family's old empire—I want to create the future. And to do that, I need a partner who understands the power of innovation."

Rudra remained silent, his eyes locked onto Kunal's, calculating. This wasn't just about business. This was about ambition. About control. Kunal wasn't here to ask for a favor—he was here to stake his claim in a world that neither the Rajawats nor the Singhaniyas had truly conquered yet.

Ravi, who had been standing silently behind Rudra, finally spoke. "It's a bold proposal. But why us? You could have gone to any other tech firm. Why Tech High?"

Kunal exhaled slowly before leaning forward, his voice lower but unwavering. "Because I don't just want the best—I want the unbeatable. Tech High is untouchable in this industry, and Singhaniya Corp is the only name that commands fear and respect in equal measure. You have the technology, the resources, and the reach. I have the vision and the blueprint. Together, we don't just build hospitals. We build the future."

Rudra tapped his fingers against the table, considering. "And what do we get in return?"

Kunal's lips curled into a knowing smile. "First access. Exclusive rights. Your name tied to the greatest medical revolution this country has ever seen. Every hospital, every technology, every patent—co-owned by Tech High and Rajawat Industries. A monopoly in an industry that will never die."

Aarav narrowed his eyes. "And what's stopping us from building this ourselves? Without you?"

Kunal didn't even flinch. "Go ahead. But you'll be fighting me for the next decade, and trust me, Singhaniya—you don't want me as your competition. It's smarter to have me as an ally."

Rudra studied him for a long moment. Kunal was dangerous—not in the way that most businessmen were, but in the way that visionaries could be. He wasn't just here to make money; he was here to leave a legacy.

Finally, Rudra leaned forward. "You're asking for a lot, Kunal."

Kunal held his gaze, unfazed. "And I'm offering even more."

A slow smirk tugged at the corner of Rudra's lips. "Then let's see if you're worth it."

Kunal clenched his jaw, his smirk never fading, but the sharp glint in his eyes revealed the challenge Rudra had just thrown his way. He wasn't a fool—he knew this was Singhaniya's way of testing him, of seeing whether he was just another businessman making empty promises or someone truly capable of standing in their league.

Rudra rose from his seat, adjusting the cuffs of his dark suit before giving Kunal a measured look. "If you want this partnership, you'll have to impress me." His voice was calm, authoritative, yet laced with an underlying warning. "Surprise me, Kunal. Show me that your loyalty isn't just a well-rehearsed speech. Because I hate liars. And I hate rivals who pretend to be family when they don't have even one percent of genuine care for me or mine."

The room was silent, the weight of Rudra's words sinking into the air like an iron chain. Aarav leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest, watching Kunal with an amused smirk, while Ravi simply stood at Rudra's side, ever the silent enforcer.

Then, with an air of finality, Rudra turned on his heel. "Let's go, boys. Dinner is done." His voice was laced with authority, a command that was never questioned.

As he strode toward the exit, he cast a glance over his shoulder, a glint of amusement dancing in his otherwise cold eyes. "Oh, and Mr. Rajawat—" his smirk deepened, "you're paying for this bill. After all, this is Aarav's hotel and property. You should at least pay your friend for the hospitality."

Aarav chuckled, shaking his head. "He's right. Consider it your first investment into proving your worth, Kunal."

Kunal exhaled through his nose, watching as Rudra walked out of the room like he owned not just this place but the entire world. The man carried power effortlessly, the weight of his presence commanding respect even when he wasn't trying.

As the Singhaniya brothers disappeared through the doors, leaving him behind, Kunal let out a low chuckle. "Impress you, huh?" he murmured to himself, swirling the whiskey in his glass before downing it in one go.

Challenge accepted.

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The warm ambiance of the café wrapped around them as Anaya and Janvi stepped inside, the soft hum of chatter blending with the soothing aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The evening rush had settled into a comfortable lull, with dim lighting casting a golden glow over the polished wooden tables.

Janvi led the way to a cozy corner booth near the window, where they could work in peace. As soon as they settled in, she waved at the waiter and, without needing a menu, placed their order.

"One hazelnut cappuccino with extra foam and a slice of dark chocolate cake for her," she said, tilting her head toward Anaya. Then, with a smile, she added, "And for me, a caramel macchiato and a blueberry cheesecake."

Anaya chuckled softly, shaking her head as she rested her elbows on the table. "You know me so well already. It's been just a few months, but it feels like we've known each other forever."

Janvi smirked, flipping her hair over her shoulder dramatically. "Of course, I do! It's my talent—knowing what my friends love. And you, my dear introvert, are predictable when it comes to coffee and cake."

Anaya gave her a pointed look but smiled. "Predictable is safe."

Janvi rolled her eyes. "Safe is boring."

Before Anaya could respond, their orders arrived, the waiter placing their coffee and cakes in front of them with a polite nod. Janvi immediately took a sip of her macchiato, sighing in bliss. "Ah, this is what I needed after that long day."

Anaya picked up her fork and took a small bite of her cake, savoring the bittersweet taste. "I agree. Today was hectic."

Janvi leaned in, resting her chin on her palm. "So, what's your plan for tonight? Heading home and reading another one of your novels?"

Anaya shook her head, exasperated yet amused, as she sipped her coffee. "Janvi, did you forget? We're a team, and we have to complete this project together. And you forgot about Aarav?" She raised an eyebrow playfully.

Janvi nearly choked on her macchiato, placing her cup down with an exaggerated gasp. "Oh please, yaar! Aarav? Why would I even remember him? Ugh, just don't mention his name!" She flicked her hair over her shoulder dramatically.

Anaya smirked. "Yeah, yeah, don't act so innocent. Every time he's around, you somehow 'accidentally' bump into him. I mean, come on, not even coincidences happen that often, Janvi."

Janvi groaned, covering her face. "Instead of understanding my pain, you're making fun of me? Some friend you are, Anaya!" She shook her head and then pointed her fork at Anaya. "And anyway, don't stress about the project. We'll handle it."

Anaya laughed, taking another bite of her cake. "Alright, alright, stop being so dramatic. Just start working quickly, or else we'll be in a panic at the last moment."

Janvi rolled her eyes but opened her laptop anyway. "Yes, madam, whatever you say. But tell me something—will you ever learn how to relax?"

Anaya simply smiled. "When you start doing your work on time."

Janvi gasped dramatically again. "You just broke our friendship!"

Anaya just laughed as they got back to work, the café buzzing softly around them.

Janvi groaned. "You're such a workaholic! You need to take a break, Anaya. Relax, have fun, do something spontaneous."

Anaya gave her a small smile but didn't respond. It wasn't that she didn't want to have fun—she just wasn't the type to do things impulsively. She preferred structure, plans, and predictability.

Janvi sighed dramatically. "Fine, we'll work. But promise me after this, we'll do something fun soon."

Anaya nodded. "Promise."

They clinked their coffee cups together lightly before pulling out their laptops, diving into work as the night stretched on.