Nafel spat blood and slumped against the wall, his breathing ragged.
“If Dario was here, he would never do business with men like you. He would have turned the entire underworld against you.” Nafel sneered weakly.
Ayaan stepped forward and spoke to Nafel and his voice was calm but lethal. “Nafel, don’t you want to know how your security chief and all your men lost consciousness so easily?” he said and turned his gaze toward the chef who was standing silently near the trolley.
“Dario, explain it to him.” Ayaan said evenly and the weight of the name hung heavy in the air. Nafel’s eyes widened in shock as the man slowly removed his face mask, revealing his true identity.
Dario, pulled out a gun and crouched in front of Nafel, pressing the barrel firmly against his head.
“You wanted business across the globe, didn’t you? So we planned accordingly. The deal between you and Ayaan was sealed the moment I boarded this cruise more than a month ago. The snacks served to your men were laced with a powerful sedative. Strong enough to keep them unconscious for at least a day ” Dario said calmly.
With a sharp movement, Dario fired, shooting Nafel in the arm before stepping aside and giving space for Ayaan.
Ayaan moved forward and his expression was lethal. “Your father will never touch my family. By now, he would be dead already. Dario’s men are there and they will make sure he’s put to sleep… permanently.” he said coldly and grabbed Nafel by the collar.
“And your body? It will be delivered back to the room in Bali where you were staying before you arrived here. No one will suspect a thing. This ends decades of vengeance.” Ayaan said gritting his teeth and slammed Nafel’s head against an iron pillar, the sound echoed through the room.
“You ruined my family’s peace for far too long. No one messes with the Reys and walks away alive.” Ayaan growled thrashing him.
Nafel screamed in agony but Ayaan showed no mercy as he continued to strike, his fury cold, calculated and absolute.
“We may have uncovered your game a little late but there will be no delay in our revenge and the verdict.” Ayaan said coldly and raising the gun he shot into Nafel’s chest.
Blood splattered around and Nafel collapsed with the room falling into a stunned silence.
Ayaan straightened and wiped his face with the back of his hand before turning around. He saw Dario celebrating, laughing, cheering and his hands raised in triumph.
“Yo, bro, the Razaqs are finished. I just got confirmation. My men have wiped them out completely in the Razaq estate. From now on, it’s only Dario who rules the business.” Dario exclaimed grabbing Ayaan’s hand and pulled him forward, breaking into an unrestrained dance.
Ayaan glanced over his shoulder at Ishaan with a slow smirk curling on his lips, before finally giving in and joining Dario in the victory, vengeance and dominance written all over his face.
“Dario, do you know how and when it all began between the Reys and the Razaqs?” Ayaan asked, picking up a drink as he continued to dance.
Dario laughed loudly. “Of course. The Razaqs wanted revenge because your father backed out of doing business with Nafel’s father. They believed they lost everything because of him. And the reason behind it all… was your mother.” Dario said and laughed but suddenly stopped dancing.
His gaze was fixed on Ayaan who was still moving calmly, a champagne flute in one hand and a gun resting casually in the other.
“Why did you stop dancing, Dario? And why do you look scared?” Ayaan asked lightly and jumped onto the table with ease, continuing to sip his drink.
“Ishaan bro, why do you think he looks scared? Maybe he is afraid history might repeat itself with him… and our kids in the future.” Ayaan added and threw his head back and laughed. Ishaan watched silently, thoroughly enjoying his brother’s controlled wickedness.
Ayaan turned his gaze back to Dario. “Dario… did you really believe what I said?”
Dario shook his head quickly. “No, Ayaan. History won’t repeat itself. We made a deal. We worked for each other. Now we go our separate ways, minding our own business.” he said but Ayaan noticed the subtle movement as Dario’s hand inched behind him.
In a flash, Ayaan reacted and two sharp shots rang out.
Dario collapsed to the floor, screaming in pain, clutching his injured hand and knee. He glared up at Ayaan and Ishaan, teeth clenched in agony.
“What the hell have you done ? I said we wouldn’t cross paths again” Dario groaned.
Ayaan stepped closer, his voice cold and unwavering. “My father believed he was walking away from something that would bring him peace. He never imagined it would return two decades later and destroy our lives.”
Ayaan lowered himself slightly and met Dario’s eyes. “I won’t let our children face what we did. So it’s better we erase the past completely leaving nothing behind.” he said and his words landed heavier than the gunshots.
“No, You know this would be a wrong move. Killing me won’t end this. My men will come after you. The entire underworld will come after you.” Dario sneered, struggling to push himself up. His knees buckled and he collapsed back onto the floor, gasping in pain.
Ayaan looked down at him, utterly calm. “You really underestimated me, Dario. Did you think I sent Barzani to you merely for protection?” he said quietly and Dario’s expression faltered.
“You fool, he has been working with Nafel and his father for years, he is known to every underground syndicate. And his son, the one you believed was innocent? He will take over next. They will never turn against us. You know why? You wanted money and power. They wanted survival and I gave them an entire world to rule. “
Ayaan paused and blew the pistol in his hand and then turned his attention back to Dario. “And his daughter? She is under my protection. He wanted her far away from this blood and filth and I promised to raise her the way he dreamed she would be. I’m a father to a son and a daughter. And a father who truly loves his children would never dare to cross the man who protects his.”
Ayaan straightened and raised the gun. “So don’t worry about the world you are leaving behind. And Nafel’s father isn’t dead yet, that call was only to cheer you but he would die when I decide it. Goodbye, Dario. Join Nafel and await for his father in hell ” he said and shot echoed through the room, bringing everything to an end.
Ayaan turned to the CSO and issued a calm but firm order. “Clear out every man who worked for Dario and Nafel. Arrange for Nafel’s body to be disposed of in the seashore near the place he stayed in Bali.”
The CSO nodded and walked out of the room without another word.
Ayaan dropped the gun aside and sank into a chair, raking his bloodied hands through his hair, exhaustion finally catching up with him.
“You are drenched in blood, let’s go back to the room.” Ishaan said, stepping closer and pulling him up.
Instead of moving away, Ayaan wrapped his arms tightly around his brother.
“Did we really end it this time? There won’t be anyone left in the future… no one who could threaten our kids, right?” Ayaan asked quietly.
Ishaan smiled softly, understanding the fear behind the question. ” We cleaned it completely this time, Ayaan and we are all proud of you, little brother.” he said, ruffling his brother’s hair.
Ishaan then pulled back from the hug and frowned. “You know you have dirtied my shirt, right?”
Ayaan shrugged and Ishaan did the same as they walked out of the meeting room together.
After freshening up, Ayaan immediately called Zara and she answered on the very first ring.
“I knew you would be awake, waiting for my call. Everything is over. We don’t have to worry anymore.” Ayaan said softly, knowing she had been counting every second. He heard Zara’s relieved sigh and smiled, pressing a kiss to the screen.
“I miss you, Ayaan, when will you return?” she whispered softly.
“Right away. We are flying back to the Maldives first and from there we will take our jet home. Everything is planned. I’ll see you in the morning. Sleep, sweetheart. I love you.” he assured her and with that, he ended the call.
Ayaan quickly freshened up and met Ishaan in his room. Together, they headed to the helipad, boarded the helicopter and returned to the Maldives. From there, they ensured all records showed a clean return journey before flying home.
Early the next morning, the bedroom door opened softly. Zara stirred at the sound and the moment she saw Ayaan, she ran to him and jumped into his arms, her hands wrapped tightly around his neck. He heard her quiet whimpers and gently patted her back as he carried her to the couch and sat down, holding her close.
“Shh… calm down, Zara. I’m back. Didn’t I promise you? “I love you, wifey.” he murmured and smiled against her hair.
Zara pulled back slightly and kissed him, pouring all her fear, relief and love into it. Ayaan threaded his fingers through her hair and kissed her back just as deeply. When they finally parted, he chuckled softly and rested his forehead against hers.
“I missed you so much,” he whispered and lifted her into his arms and carried her to the bed, where they curled up together and drifted into sleep.
Less than three hours later, Rehan and Zavi climbed onto Ayaan’s back, giggling as they pulled his ears and tugged at his moustache. Ayaan woke up laughing and pulled them into his arms and rubbed his beard against their cheeks, making them squeal with delight. Laughter filled the room, washing away the darkness of the past days.
“Did my prince and princess miss me?” Ayaan asked as he rolled onto his back.
Rehan climbed onto his abdomen while Zavi settled comfortably on his arm.
“Mish you, Papa… Papa… big fish ” Rehan said excitedly, making Ayaan chuckle as he gently pinched his nose.
“Then we shall make a pond and go fishing every weekend,” Ayaan promised, holding out his fist. Rehan eagerly bumped it with his own, grinning wide.
Zavi lifted her tiny legs to show off the new anklets Vaishu had gifted her. Ayaan lightly flicked the little bells, making them jingle and bent to kiss her ankle.
“Beautiful anklets for my princess,” he said softly and Zavi immediately stretched out her palm for another kiss. Ayaan kissed it, then turned his cheek toward her, asking silently for one in return. Rehan joined in and soon both Rehan and Zavi showered him with kisses.
Their laughter echoed through the room until Zara gently pulled the kids away, reminding them it was time to get ready for breakfast.
Ayaan arrived at the dining area with Rehan clinging to his front and Zavi wrapped around his back, while Zara followed closely behind, her smile bright, excitement shining in her eyes as she watched him with the kids.
Zara gently took the children from him just as Reyansh and Vaishu rose to their feet and hugged Ayaan, followed by Pari.
“We are proud of you,” Reyansh said warmly.
The family then settled down for breakfast. Ayaan glanced at Ishaan, who gave a subtle nod, letting him know that everything had already been explained to the family.
Rehan and Zavi weren’t ready to let Ayaan out of their sight after his four-day absence. So Ayaan fed them first, patiently listening to their excited chatter and stories, smiling through every word.
Two days later, news channels flashed breaking reports about the death of the elder Razaq and several members of the family. The reports stated that it was a brutal internal massacre carried out by the Razaq’s own men, wiping out the entire family except for the women.
Blurred visuals of the bodies were shown as the news continued.
Soon after, another update followed that Nafel Razaq’s body was found on the seashore in Bali, near the private bungalow where he had been staying. Videos later surfaced showing Nafel and his father mistreating women, leading the public to believe that the massacre was an act of revenge carried out by the families of the women who had suffered under their cruelty.
One thing leaders across the globe quietly agreed upon was that a deadly and dangerous man had been taken down. Though a few questioned the massacre, no one was willing to dig into the dark history of the Razaqs.
Three days later, Suryadev, who had initially been held in custody for interrogation, was produced before the court. The lawyers appointed by Reyansh presented a comprehensive set of evidence detailing every crime Suryadev had committed over the years. Just as Ayaan had warned, Suryadev confessed to his crimes in court.
Faced with overwhelming proof, the court delivered its verdict and sentenced him to life time imprisonment. His illegally acquired assets were seized by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), effectively dismantling the empire he had built through corruption.
From that day forward, Ayaan and Ishaan ensured that everyday Suryadev faced the full weight of justice for the wrongs he had committed against their family.
A week later, the Rey family arrived at the cruise with the kids for their much awaited vacation. Security was tight, as the entire Rey family was present together.
Zara hesitated near the deck and her fear of the ocean was evident in her eyes . Ayaan gently took her hand, turned her toward the sea and wrapped his arms around her from behind.
“Relax, sweetheart, nothing in this world is more dangerous than humankind and you survived it. You won me. So there is nothing left to be afraid of. Just enjoy… you have got me.” he whispered kissing her earlobe.
Zara leaned back against his chest and watched the calm ocean waves. “I still can’t believe we are on a cruise,” she said turning to face him.
“Of course we are, our own cruise. How about we buy another one?” Ayaan replied casually and Zara’s jaw dropped in shock.
Ayaan chuckled and kissed the tip of her nose. “I’m serious. Maybe a smaller one than this”
Zara nodded her head with a smile in agreement. They returned to the family, who were already getting ready for pool time. Zara dressed Rehan and Zavi, who grew excited the moment they saw their swimsuits.
Ayaan dove into the pool and Rehan and Zavi could hardly wait to join him. He surfaced, wiped the water from his face and lifted them gently into their floatables.
Ved and Saanvi joined in, along with Ishaan and Reyansh, splashing and playing with Rehan and Zavi in the pool.
Meanwhile, Pari, Vaishu, Zara, Adhvika and Ishika sat nearby with snacks, laughing and watching the men and children enjoy themselves feeling peaceful, content and finally free.
Later that night, Reyansh and Vaishu decided to have all the kids stay with them, giving the couples their space. One by one, everyone retreated to their rooms.
Ayaan and Zara entered theirs. As Ayaan moved closer to hug her, Zara stopped him and gently pushed him toward the couch and sat on his lap instead.
“Ayaan… I want something, Will you do it for me?” she said softly and Ayaan nuzzled his nose into her neck and kissed her gently with a smile.
“You only have to order, my queen. Tell me, what do you want me to do?” he murmured.
Zara smiled but turned serious. “You said you wanted to buy a cruise, so how about you fulfill my wish first… and then I’ll allow you to buy one.” she said and Ayaan frowned slightly, confused.
“I want you to follow your dream, your passion for music. Will you do that for me?” Zara said and Ayaan froze.
Before he could respond, there was a knock on the door. Zara immediately slipped off his lap and hurried to open it. Rohan stood outside with a smile and handed her a guitar. She closed the door and placed the guitar gently into Ayaan’s hands.
“I want to see you follow your passion, let the world see Ayaan Rey’s talent… his voice.” Zara said softly.
Ayaan smiled faintly and strummed a single string and the sound echoed through the room.
“Not for the world, sweetheart, I would do anything for you. I haven’t touched this in years. Honestly… I don’t even know if I still can. But I’ll try for you.” he said quietly.
Zara sat on the bed, legs folded and watched him with shining eyes.
“You really want me to sing now?” Ayaan asked, still surprised and Zara simply shrugged with a smile.
Ayaan took a deep breath and settled back onto the couch, the guitar resting in his hands, ready to let a forgotten part of himself come alive once again.
As Ayaan strummed the strings, goosebumps rippled through him. Tears welled in his eyes as he looked at Zara and started to sing.
Hum tere bin ab reh nahin sakte
Tere bina kyaa vajood meraa
Tujh se judaa gar ho jaayenge
To khud se hi ho jaayenge judaa
Kyonki tum hi ho
Ab tum hi ho
Zindagi, ab tum hi ho
Chain bhi, meraa dard bhi
Meri aashiqui ab tum hi ho
Zara opened her arms and Ayaan set the guitar aside on the couch before rushing into her embrace. She ruffled his hair and patted his back gently.
“You were amazing, Ayaan. I’m sure you’ll become an incredible singer and launch your own music company very soon,” Zara said.
Ayaan rolled onto the bed and pulled her down with him so she rested above him.
“I love you, Zara. I love you so much. Thank you for coming into my life. You have given me everything I ever dreamed of and I promise I’ll make you proud.” he whispered holding her close.
Their words faded as their lips met in a slow, passionate kiss.
**************************************
A/N:
See you all in Epilogue
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