35 - "My Future Wife — Loud & Clear"

Nirvay stood beside Arohi, dressed and ready for the most important day for the company.

"Today is a very important day for me, Arohi. Wish me luck," he said softly.

Arohi smiled warmly. "My wishes and luck are always with you, Nirvay. And more than that, I have complete confidence in you—you'll set everything right."

Emotion flickered in Nirvay's eyes. "Thank you… for believing in me."

"I believe in you because I know you're capable of handling anything," Arohi said.

He leaned forward, gently kissed her forehead, and left for the office with a faint but determined smile.

Arohi's mother watched the exchange quietly from the doorway. Her expression softened.

"Nirvay is a truly hardworking boy. It's not easy to be this mature at such a young age," she said thoughtfully.

Arohi didn't respond. She simply smiled.

At the Office – Conference Room

The MD approached Nirvay as soon as he entered. "Sir, everyone's gathered in the meeting room. They're waiting for you."

"Let's go," Nirvay replied firmly.

As he stepped into the meeting room, he was met with the eyes of board members, investors, and to his parents, Shreya, and her family. He greeted everyone with respectful nods.

"Thank you all for coming," Nirvay began. "And also, I'm sorry. Thank you—for still believing in this company. And I apologize—for the losses you've faced because of me."

One of the senior investors stood up. "Mr. Raj, we've never doubted your ability. We've always admired your maturity and vision. But this time, you really disappointed us."

Another board member added, "Nirvay, you've been exceptional. You brought this company back from the edge of bankruptcy when you were just 21. But your recent absence has delayed major projects. And the news about your… personal life didn't help."

Nirvay took a deep breath.

"I'm aware of what's being said in the media. I'll be honest—I didn't inform anyone. I vanished. I broke protocol. And yes, the news is correct that I was absent because of someone—my personal assistant, who was in a critical condition after an accident."

There was stunned silence in the room.

"Let me ask you—should I have left her dying and returned to work? I chose to be with someone who mattered more to me than anything. Because I knew, I could fix the losses in this company later. But I could never bring her back if I lost her."

He paused, his voice steadier now.

"And since rumors are already out there—let me clarify: she's not just my assistant. She's my future wife."

Murmurs rippled through the room. Nirvay's parents looked shaken. Shreya's expression froze in disbelief.

Another investor spoke. "We didn't know this, Mr. Raj. We were misled by media."

Nirvay nodded. "That's why I had to speak for myself. You all know me professionally. But this was a personal matter. I'm sure each one of you would've made the same choice if your loved one were in danger."

There was a long silence… then slowly, one by one, they began to agree. Heads nodded. Statements of support followed.

"We trust you, Mr. Raj."

"We support your decisions."

The investors and board members began leaving with handshakes and well-wishes, until only the families remained.

After the Meeting – Heated Confrontation

As soon as the room cleared, Nirvay's father ordered, "Shut the door."

"Are you out of your mind? Future wife?! You told that to investors?!" he shouted.

"Yes," Nirvay said calmly. "Because it's the truth. I'm marrying Arohi."

"And who gave you the right to make that decision?!" his father snapped.

Nirvay's voice sharpened. "Who gave you the right to treat me like a machine since childhood? You only cared about my grades, then this company. Never once did you ask what I wanted."

Shreya tried to reason. "Nirvay, you're being emotional. Marriage isn't a small thing."

"I'm glad you know it isn't. That's why I'm making this choice with full understanding."

His mother spoke gently, "We know you're upset with us. But don't throw away your life out of anger."

"I'm not doing this out of anger, Mom. I love Arohi. That's the only reason."

Shreya's mother scoffed. "This kind of love fades, Nirvay. One day you'll regret it."

"It's been five years. I've loved her with the same heart, whether she was with me or not. I have no regrets."

Shreya's father interjected, "Your marriage with Shreya was fixed in childhood. You knew that."

"I'm not a business deal," Nirvay said. "Marriage is not a contract between companies."

Shreya's voice cracked. "He's always been obsessed with her. Even in school."

Nirvay's father stepped forward. "At least give us a reason."

Tears welled in Nirvay's eyes. "The reason? Because despite having a family, I've always felt alone. You both were never there for me. You abandoned Jai because of his illness. You never cared for me, only for your profits. And now when I've finally found someone who makes me feel loved—you expect me to give her up? I'm done choosing between this company and my happiness. Arohi is the first and last person I want to marry. And this time—I won't let anyone take my happiness away."

He walked out of the room, eyes wet, heart burning.

Later at the Hospital

Nirvay arrived at the hospital, eyes still red. He met Arohi's parents first, informed them of her discharge schedule, and then went to see her.

"The doctor said you'll be discharged in a day or two," he said gently.

Arohi looked up. "Were you crying? Was the meeting that bad?"

"The meeting went well. Investors are staying."

"Then why…?"

"Because I'm shifting you to my flat once you're discharged. Your treatment needs to continue, and I won't let you go back to your hometown. I know I'm being selfish."

Arohi hesitated. "But… what about mom, dad, and bhaiya? And society?"

"I've already spoken to them. They've agreed. As for society—I don't care. I don't need marriage to stay with you. But I know what society says about character. That's why I told everyone—we're getting married."

Arohi gasped. "Married?! What about your parents?"

"They only care about profits, not my happiness. And I don't need their approval."

Arohi grew quiet. "Marriage is a big decision, Nirvay."

He took her hand. "It's the only decision I'm certain about."

Arohi paused, then looked away. "Close the door."

"Why?"

"Just do it."

He closed it.

"Open my gown."

"What?! I'll call the nurse."

"No. I want you to see how my body looks after the accident. Love is one thing, but reality is another."

Nirvay stepped close and gently cupped her cheek.

"Your scars… are mine too."

And he kissed the scar on her cheek, gently.

Arohi broke down in his arms, crying.

Tears rolled down Nirvay's face as well.

To be continued…