Chapter 32

Maya slid a thick envelope across the table toward Sanjana. “Take a look,” she said with a sly smile playing on her lips.

Sanju casually picked it up, but as she flipped through the photographs, her expression turned to stunned disbelief. Her eyes widened as the images registered, intimate moments of her and Aryan inside the mansion. She instantly knew where they came from.

Slowly, she stood up from the couch and stared at Maya, whose smirk deepened with satisfaction.

But Sanju’s shock melted away as quickly as it had come. She narrowed her eyes, sat back down with calm elegance, crossed her legs, and offered a cold, sarcastic smile.

“Are you happy with the reaction you expected from me?” she asked coolly. “Am I good in acting?”

The photos were undoubtedly taken from a hidden camera, specifically, the pen camera Sunita had with her when she came to meet Aryan. And every shot was clear, Aryan and Sanjana in affectionate moments.

Sanju held the pictures in her hand and looked at Maya, now unflinching.

“Hey, you,” Maya sneered. “Look, take the money you want and get out of this place. Otherwise, these photos will surface on every social media platform. You’ll be tarnished. Don’t lose your face badly. Better be smart and take this deal.”

Sanju gave a dry laugh. “Stop it. What do you think of me?” Her tone sharpened. “You thought I would bow at your feet for your money? You’re in my home, so better train your tongue.”

She paused, her eyes scanning the photos again. “Now, coming to the point—the photos are too good. Thanks for them. I’ll keep these for myself. Anyway, I know you’ll have copies, so feel free to spread them online. I’m least bothered. In fact, you’ll be doing me a favour—helping me reveal our relationship.”

“Sanjana,” Maya warned, her voice lowering dangerously. “I’m warning you for your life.”

“My life is Aryan,” Sanju said firmly, rising from the couch. “And don’t you dare face his wrath.”

Maya’s voice turned shrill. “What quality do you possess to get Aryan? You’re nowhere near me! I’m beautiful, I’m rich, I’m a businesswoman. I’m perfect for my Aryan!”

Sanju smiled, a calm confidence in her tone. “I may not be beautiful, I’m not rich, and I’m not a businesswoman. But I own one thing that you don’t.”

“There is nothing that I don’t own,” Maya shot back.

Sanju stepped closer, her gaze unwavering. “Yes, there is. You don’t own his love,” she said quietly. “But I do. And that’s the end of this talk. You may leave.”

She paused, then added with a wink, “And it’s better you address him as Mr. Chaitanya from now on, because he loves hearing the name Aryan only from my voice. He says it sounds lovey and sexy.”

Maya’s expression darkened. “Get ready, Miss Sanjana. The worst phase of your life starts now.”

Just then, Aryan’s voice echoed from upstairs.

“Sanjana!”

She turned slightly, her smile now triumphant. “Coming, Aryan!”

Then she turned back to Maya. “See? He doesn’t even leave me alone for five minutes. So I think you should take your leave. Bye… see you.”

She looked at Ranjith, who stood at a safe distance nearby.

“Ranjith bro, send her off.”

“Okay, Sanjana,” Ranjith replied firmly.

Without giving Maya another glance, Sanju walked away toward her room.

You touched my wrong nerve. You’ll pay for your words… and your actions. Maya thought and  with that, she turned on her heel and left Aryan Mansion.

Upstairs, Aryan watched Sanju enter their room.

“Looks like madam was busy,” he said, an amused smile on his face.

“Don’t question me if you already know the answer,” she replied, closing the door behind her.

“Good,” he said with a smirk. “My scared cat has become smart enough to play.”

“Why not? I learn from my boss,” she said, walking into his arms.

“Good. Your boss taught you so much,” he teased. “What else have you learnt?”

“He spoilt me enough to be naughty like him.”

She hugged him, and he wrapped his arms around her with warmth.

“Sweetheart,” Aryan whispered into her hair, “just believe in us and listen to my words. Don’t get bothered.”

“Hmm… okay,” she replied softly.

He kissed her nape gently, inhaling her scent from the crook of her neck.

“Aryan, what are the plans for the party?” she asked.

He looked into her face, cupped her cheeks, and kissed her forehead. Then he pecked her lips.

“What do you want to do?”

“I already have the costume in the suite.”

“Then stay home. I’ll tell Ranjith to take you to the suite. You can get ready there. Just inform Ramya about the timings.”

“Hmm… okay. What about you?”

“If you’re planning to surprise me with your costume,” he grinned, “then let me try something too. See me at the party.”

“Hmmm… okay,” she said, her eyes twinkling.

On the day of the party, Aryan left for the office with Ranjith.

“Ranjith, check on the security arrangements before the party starts,” he instructed.

“Sure, sir.”

“Once you drop Sanju at the suite, return to the mansion and ensure she’s safe. There should be guards on her floor at all times.”

“Sir, relax. I’ll take care of it.”

“I know you will.”

Aryan got into work mode, buried in meetings for an international project. Meanwhile, Ranjith and Sanju reached ARC Hotels.

Sanju stepped into the suite.

“Sanju, stay inside,” Ranjith said. “If you need anything, call me. Don’t step out. Guards will be on this floor at all times.”

“Okay, bro.”

“I’ll get Ramya to your room once she’s here.”

“Thanks, bro. Also, arrange for some refreshments after she arrives.”

“Will do, Sanju.”

Ranjith left to oversee security.

Back at the mansion, Aryan returned home, exhausted but eager. As he entered their room, he noticed a pink rolled paper tied with a satin ribbon placed neatly on the bed.

He walked over, unrolled it, and began to read, a smile slowly forming on his face.

“Darling,

It’s been four hours since I’ve seen you, and another five left to go.

What have you done, Aryan? You’ve spoilt me so much that I can’t even stay a few hours without you. Missing you, my prince. Can’t wait for the night to see you again. Come soon to me, darling.

Yours,
Sweetheart”

Aryan held the letter close to his chest, eyes gleaming with affection.

“Coming, sweetheart… with an unexpected surprise for you,” he whispered. “Be ready.”

He freshened up and began getting ready for the party.

Meanwhile, at ARC Hotels, Ramya arrived with her stylist. Ranjith escorted them to Aryan’s suite, where Sanju greeted them with a warm smile. After a quick round of refreshments, the stylist began her work, preparing Sanju for the magical night ahead.

The ballroom of ARC Hotels shimmered under the warm lights, decorated in a classic theme that blended elegance with subtle opulence. Tables were perfectly arranged for the guests, and a lavish buffet adorned the far end of the hall. Soft melodies filled the air, creating a serene ambience while security remained tight. After all, tonight wasn’t just another celebration—it was an elite affair with business magnates and dignitaries in attendance.

The top brass of ARC Group had already begun to arrive. Vinay, the Head of HR, entered first, followed by Manasi, the poised and sharp Financial Head. A few minutes later, the new Marketing Head, Karthick, joined them.

Just as the trio began discussing the evening, a familiar face walked in—Pavithra. Her sudden appearance made Manasi’s brows lift in surprise.

“Pavithra?” Manasi asked, a frown forming. “How are you here? This party is strictly for department heads and invited guests.”

“I was invited by Sanjana,” Pavithra replied calmly.

“This is an official party. Just because you’re her friend, how could Sanjana—”

Before she could finish, Ranjith stepped in with his ever-steady presence.

“The invite was by Aryan sir himself,” he said, looking at Manasi. “Sanjana merely followed our boss’s instructions.”

Manasi gave a half-smile. “Ranjith, I was just casually talking to Pavithra.”

“I know, Ms. Manasi,” he replied evenly before excusing himself to welcome the arriving guests.

As dignitaries and tycoons walked in, Ranjith received a message from the guards.

“Aryan sir is arriving,” the message read.

He immediately made his way to the hotel entrance. A sleek black Lamborghini pulled in, commanding attention as it came to a smooth stop. Ranjith stepped forward and opened the door.

Aryan stepped out.

Dressed in a tailored black three-piece suit, his presence radiated command and charisma. With one hand tucked casually into his pocket, he strode into the venue, his steps firm and graceful. The employees on either side offered greetings, and Aryan nodded with quiet poise. He looked every bit the king he was.

Once inside, Aryan began mingling with the guests, sharing a few pleasant exchanges. Ranjith approached him discreetly.

“Sir, Mr. Chandrasekar has arrived—with his son and daughter.”

“Hmm. Okay,” Aryan nodded and walked to the entrance.

There stood Mr. Chandrasekar, dignified as always, flanked by Naren and Maya.

Aryan walked forward, smiling.

“Sir,” he said, embracing the elder with respect, “thank you for being here. It means a lot to me.”

Mr. Chandrasekar patted his back warmly. “Congratulations, my boy. Be happy always.”

“It’s an honor to have you here, sir,” Aryan replied.

Naren grinned. “I’m here too, my dear friend.”

“Come on, man,” Aryan chuckled and gave him a side hug before shifting his gaze to Maya, who stood poised at the entrance, dressed elegantly in a shimmering blue long skirt paired with a sleek white top. Diamond jewels adorned her neck and wrists, catching the light with every slight movement. She looked like royalty—every inch of her appearance carefully curated to impress.

Yet, despite her striking look, Aryan’s eyes barely lingered. His voice remained even, formal.

“Welcome, Ms. Maya,” he said politely.

Maya’s smile wavered for a fraction of a second, but she quickly masked her disappointment with a forced grin.

“Do you need to be so formal?” she asked, trying to keep her tone light.

Before Aryan could reply, Naren cut in with a smirk, “Everyone knows Aryan. So don’t be surprised when he addresses you formally.”

Aryan simply smiled at Naren, saying nothing more.

He and Ranjith then guided the trio inside, showing them to their reserved table amidst the well-dressed crowd.

“Sir, please excuse me for a while. I have more guests to greet,” Aryan said respectfully to Mr. Chandrasekar.

“Carry on, young man,” the elder replied with a gentle wave of his hand.

“Thank you,” Aryan nodded, and with that, he moved through the hall, his sharp eyes scanning the space with purpose. Naren gave Maya a quick glance and followed Aryan into the crowd.

As soon as they left, Maya’s smile dissolved.

“Dad, did you see how he addressed me?” she muttered bitterly.

Mr. Chandrasekar leaned closer, his voice reassuring. “Don’t worry, my baby. Trust your dad. I’ll handle everything.”

“You’re my only hope,” she said softly, a flicker of desperation in her voice.

He placed a firm hand over hers. “Your dad will do anything for you.”

She smiled again, more genuine this time. “Love you, Dad.”

Meanwhile, Naren stepped away from Aryan to take a phone call. As he turned down a quieter hallway, distracted by the buzzing device, he accidentally collided with someone rounding the corner.

“Oh—I’m so sorry—” Naren started, but his words faltered the moment he looked up. Before him stood a young woman with calm, confident eyes and a gentle elegance that silenced his thoughts.

The moment his eyes met hers, everything around him blurred into the background.

She was stunning.

Clad in a soft pastel saree that hugged her frame with elegance, Pavithra stood before him, her eyes wide with surprise and grace radiating from her calm demeanor. Her features were delicate, yet there was strength in her posture—poise in the way she held herself.

Just then, Ranjith appeared at Naren’s side, chuckling as he caught his friend’s slack-jawed expression.

“What happened, Naren?” Ranjith asked, arms crossed, already guessing the answer.

Naren didn’t respond right away. His gaze hadn’t moved. “Who is this young lady?” he finally asked, voice lower than usual, laced with curiosity.

Ranjith smirked. “She’s Ms. Pavithra. Our finance team lead.”

“Pavithra…” Naren repeated softly, tasting the name. “What a beautiful name.” He stepped forward and extended his hand, his signature charm returning. “Hi, I’m Naren.”

Pavithra smiled, a hint of amusement lighting up her eyes. She accepted his hand, expecting a polite shake—but instead, Naren gently twirled her in a smooth, impromptu dance move that caught her completely off guard. She let out a soft laugh, the moment completely unexpected.

Ranjith groaned. “Hey, Naren, it’s still a formal party! People are watching.”

Snapping back into reality, Naren slowly released Pavithra’s hand and let her steady herself, still smiling.

“You look absolutely gorgeous,” he said, sincerity softening his playful tone.

Pavithra blushed slightly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Thank you. And you look quite handsome yourself.”

“Ohh,” Naren grinned wider, clearly pleased. His phone rang again, pulling him out of the moment. He glanced at the screen and sighed. “Duty calls. See you soon, baby.”

With a wink, he walked away, leaving Pavithra smiling and a little flustered.

Once he disappeared into the crowd, she turned to Ranjith, cheeks still tinged pink. “Ranjith, when will Sanju arrive?”

“Any moment now. Her stylist just left. I’ll go bring her shortly,” he replied.

“Okay,” she nodded, her smile lingering.

Meanwhile, Aryan continued greeting his guests, but his eyes often wandered toward the entrance, waiting.

Ranjith returned shortly, accompanying someone.

And there she stood—Sanjana.

She walked in, taking small, elegant steps, her gown trailing behind her like a silken wave. Her eyes scanned the room… until they met his.

Aryan froze.

She was divine.

And she had eyes only for him.

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