Incest Family of Shadows

[donga0092019]

Chapter 13 part 2

Babu sat on the edge of his bed, his head heavy with thoughts. The weight of his unspoken words pressed against his chest. Across from him, Aruna leaned casually against him, watching him with an unreadable expression.

"You should wait for the right time to tell Amma," Aruna finally said, her voice steady, almost calculated.

Babu sighed, rubbing his temples. "Akka, I don’t understand. Don’t you think I should tell her immediately?" His voice carried a mix of urgency and uncertainty, as if he was desperate for someone to reassure him that what he felt was right.

Aruna moved closer, hugging him and placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I understand, Babu. But think about it. Amma made this decision with her whole heart, believing this marriage was best for you. If you tell her outright, she’ll be hurt… maybe even angry. You need to be smart about this."

Babu sighed again, clearly uneasy. "Fine. I’ll wait. But How will I know what is the right time ?"

Aruna’s smile widened ever so slightly, her voice laced with reassurance. "I’ll tell you, Babu," she said smoothly. "Just trust me. I’ll make sure everything happens in a way that doesn’t hurt you or Amma."

Babu looked at her, still conflicted but willing to rely on her judgment. "Alright, Akka. I’ll wait for you to tell me."

Aruna nodded, patting his hand gently. "Good. Just leave everything to me."

A moment of silence hung between them, heavy and charged.

But while Babu struggled with guilt, Aruna's mind was racing in a different direction. She had convinced him to wait, but for her, this was far from over. She had accepted defeat before, believing there was no way to change fate. But now… now, fate has placed an opportunity right in her hands.

Gita’s reluctance could be used as a weapon. It was the crack in the foundation she needed. If played right, this situation could be manipulated to serve her hidden desires. The engagement falling apart would be the first step. What happened after that… Well, that would be entirely up to her.

A slow, secretive smile played on her lips.As Babu sat there, trying to push away the unease settling in his chest, Aruna’s mind was already working. She had just gained complete control over the situation. She got Babu wrapped around her fingers. Now, all she had to do was wait for the perfect moment to strike.

Perhaps the game wasn’t over after all.

The next day Aruna sat across from Purushotham, her expression unusually serious. The warmth that typically colored their conversations was absent, replaced by a distant resolve. "Purushotham," she began, her voice steady but soft, "I think it's time we ended this...whatever we have between us."

Purushotham blinked in surprise, the words cutting through him like a sudden chill. "What? Why? Did I do something wrong?"

She shook her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips as though to soften the blow. "No, you've been wonderful. But things are changing. Babu is getting married, and Amma has been introducing me to some suitable matches. I think it's time for me to settle down too."

The words struck Purushotham hard, but he summoned the courage to say what he'd been holding back for so long. "Aruna...if settling down is what you want, then why not with me? I love you. I want to be with you, not just for now, but for a lifetime."

Aruna's eyes widened for a moment before softening with a mix of affection and regret. "Purushotham, you're sweet. Fun to be with, even. But I can't share a life with you."

"Why not?" he asked, his voice heavy with frustration and pain.

She sighed deeply, averting her gaze. "Because I'm ten years older than you, for one. You deserve someone who can give you the family you want, the future you deserve. I may not even be able to have children at my age."

"That doesn't matter to me," he protested earnestly. "I want you, Aruna."

Aruna reached across the table and gently placed her hand over his. "You're saying that now, but someday you'll realize how important those things are. I can't be the reason you miss out on a full life. I care about you too much to let that happen."

Her words left him speechless. The finality in her tone was undeniable. Purushotham sat back, his chest heavy with unspoken emotions, as Aruna stood and gave him a sad smile. "You're an amazing person, Purushotham. But this is where we part ways. I'm sorry."

Without waiting for a response, she turned and left the room, leaving Purushotham to grapple with the bittersweet ache of love and rejection.

The next day Purushotham went to the Quarters, he sat across from Babu, his expression tense with frustration and hope. "Babu, I need your help," he said, leaning forward. "I asked Aruna to marry me, but she turned me down. I love her, Babu. I know you’re close to her—maybe you can talk to her, make her understand."

Babu, already drowning in his own turmoil, barely looked up. He let out a tired sigh, rubbing his face. "Purushotham, I don’t have the energy for this right now."

Purushotham’s face fell, but he pressed on. "Please, Babu. She listens to you. Maybe if you just—"

Babu cut him off with a sharp tone, his patience wearing thin. "If Akka doesn’t want to marry you, then let her go." His words were blunt, almost dismissive.

Purushotham stared at him, taken aback. "But—"

"There’s no ‘but,’ Purushotham," Babu said, finally looking at him. His voice was flat, devoid of sympathy. "She made her choice. Accept it and move on."

Purushotham sat in stunned silence. He had expected resistance, maybe even skepticism, but not this cold indifference. He had always thought of Babu as his closest friend, someone who would support him, especially in matters of the heart. But now, it felt like Babu wasn’t even present in the conversation—his mind was somewhere else entirely.

Realizing he wasn’t going to get any help, Purushotham stood up, his hands clenched into fists. "Fine," he muttered, his voice laced with disappointment. "I’ll handle it myself."

Babu didn’t respond, his gaze fixed on the floor. As Purushotham walked away, a storm of emotions brewed inside him—anger, hurt, and an unsettling feeling that something was very wrong with his friend.

As Purushotham walked out of the government quarters, his mind was a whirlwind of frustration and disappointment. He had come seeking Babu’s help, hoping his friend would at least try to persuade Aruna. Instead, he had been met with cold indifference.

Lost in thought, he barely noticed Rani standing near the gate, adjusting her handbag as she prepared to leave. When she saw him, she smiled and greeted him warmly.

"Good evening, Purushotham sir."

He walked past her without responding, still caught up in his own emotions.

Rani frowned and called out again, a little louder this time. "Sir?"

Purushotham blinked, snapping out of his thoughts. He turned to her, his expression softening just a little. "Oh, Rani... sorry, I didn’t hear you."

Rani tilted her head, studying his face. "You look really disturbed. Something wrong?"

Purushotham sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "It’s... it’s a long story."

Rani gave him a knowing look. "Well, I’ve got time. How about we grab a coffee? You look like you could use one."

He hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah… I guess I could use a break."

A short while later, they sat in a small café nearby, the low hum of conversations and the clinking of cups filling the space around them. Purushotham stirred his coffee absentmindedly, staring at the dark liquid as if searching for answers.

Rani leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. "Alright, spill it. What’s bothering you so much?"

Purushotham took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. "I proposed to Aruna."

Rani’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Wait... you mean marriage?"

He nodded. "Yes. I love her, Rani. I really do. But she rejected me."

Rani’s face turned thoughtful. "Why?"

Purushotham looked down at his cup. "She said she doesn’t feel the same way about me. That I’m fun to be with, but she can’t share a life with me." His voice was laced with pain. "She even said she’s too old for me and might not be able to give me a family."

Rani pursed her lips, thinking carefully before responding. "And what did Babu say?"

Purushotham scoffed, shaking his head. "That’s the worst part. I went to him for support, hoping he’d help convince her, but he just brushed me off. He told me to let her go."

Rani’s eyes widened slightly. "That doesn’t sound like Babu. He might be arrogant sometimes, but he cares about his sister, doesn’t he?"

"That’s what I thought too," Purushotham muttered. "But today… it felt like he wasn’t even listening. Like he had bigger problems on his mind."

Rani tapped her fingers on the table, thinking. "Something doesn’t add up here. Aruna has always been calculative. If she’s rejecting you, there’s a reason beyond what she’s telling you."

Purushotham looked up, hope flickering in his eyes. "You think so?"

Rani nodded slowly. "I don’t know what game she’s playing, but trust me, she never does anything without a reason. And Babu being distant? That’s another red flag."

Purushotham let out a heavy sigh. "Then what should I do?"

Rani smirked slightly. "For now, be patient. Let’s keep our eyes open and see how things unfold. Maybe Aruna and Babu are both caught in something we don’t fully understand yet."

Purushotham nodded reluctantly, still unsure but comforted by Rani’s words. As they finished their coffee, he felt a renewed determination—he wasn’t ready to give up on Aruna just yet.


Continued in the next part……​

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 13 part 3

The next morning, Rani walked into Aruna’s room with an unusual sense of urgency. Aruna, seated on her bed, glanced up from the phone she was watching and arched an eyebrow at Rani’s serious expression.

"Madam," Rani began cautiously, clasping her hands together, "forgive me if I’m overstepping, but I feel like I need to say this."

Aruna set her phone down and leaned back in her chair. "Go on," she said, her voice calm but curious.

Rani took a deep breath. "I think you should reconsider Purushotham sir’s proposal."

Aruna’s expression darkened instantly. "Who told you about that?" she asked, her tone sharp.

Rani hesitated for a second but then decided to be honest. "Yesterday, Purushotham sir came to see Babu. He asked him to help convince you to marry him."

Aruna’s jaw tightened. "And what did Babu say?"

Rani sighed. "He brushed him off. Told him that if you don’t want to marry, he should just let you go."

Aruna let out a dry chuckle, shaking her head. "Of course, he did. Babu has other things on his mind right now. He wouldn’t waste time on something that doesn’t concern him."

Rani took a step closer. "After that, I ran into Purushotham sir outside. He looked completely lost, so I asked him what was wrong. We went to a café, and he told me everything. How much he loves you. How he was hoping Babu would help, but instead, he got nothing but indifference."

Aruna’s eyes flickered with something unreadable—perhaps frustration, perhaps something deeper. She remained silent, processing Rani’s words.

Rani continued, her voice softer. "Madam, I’m not saying this just for Purushotham sir’s sake. I know you, and I know you don’t make decisions lightly. But is this really what you want? To turn away someone who genuinely cares for you?"

Aruna leaned forward on her bed. She studied Rani carefully before exhaling slowly. "It’s not that simple, Rani."

Rani nodded. "I understand. But think about it, at least. Because I don’t think Purushotham sir is going to give up that easily."

Aruna looked away, deep in thought, as Rani quietly left the room. The conversation left a lingering tension in the air—one Aruna couldn’t ignore, no matter how much she wanted to.

Purushotham sat at his desk, staring blankly at the open file before him, but his mind was elsewhere. The weight of Aruna’s rejection still lingered, leaving him restless. Just then, a soft knock on the door broke his trance. He looked up to see Vani standing at the entrance.

"Vani?" he said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"

Vani stepped inside with a neutral expression, carrying a bag in her hand. "My sister, Aruna, sent me here," she said, placing the bag on his desk. "She asked me to return this to you."

Frowning, Purushotham unzipped the bag and found an assortment of files and an office-issued laptop—the very things Aruna used during her time at his firm. His grip on the bag tightened. "She couldn't return these herself?" he asked, bitterness creeping into his tone.

Vani let out a small sigh. "She didn’t want any unnecessary drama," she said plainly. "Given the history between you two, she thought it was best handled this way."

Purushotham scoffed. "So, she sent you to clean up the mess." He leaned back in his chair and studied Vani for a moment. "Wait… you said ‘history.’ You know about us?"

Vani smirked slightly. "Of course. We are sisters—we talk about everything."

Purushotham’s eyes darkened. "Everything?"

"Yes," Vani nodded. "I know about you. I know about the guy before you… and the one after you."

Purushotham’s heart stopped for a moment. His breath caught in his throat. He had always thought he was special to Aruna, that their connection was unique. But now, hearing that there was someone after him… someone she had chosen over him…

His voice was almost a whisper. "There’s someone after me?" He swallowed hard, his hands curling into fists. "Who is it? I want to know."

Vani shook her head. "I've already said too much," she muttered, as if regretting her words.

Purushotham stood up abruptly, desperation flickering in his eyes. "Please, Vani," he pleaded. "I need to know. I love her. If there's a chance… if there's still hope, I need to understand."

Vani hesitated. She looked away for a moment as if debating whether she should speak. Then, after a deep breath, she met Purushotham’s gaze. "I’m only telling you this because I don’t approve of what Aruna is doing," she admitted. "And I hope that she will finally settle down in life."

Purushotham nodded eagerly, waiting.

Vani’s next words hit him like a thunderbolt.

"It’s our stepbrother, Babu," she said, her voice steady but cold. "Aruna is having an affair with him."

Purushotham’s body went rigid. He blinked rapidly, as if trying to process the words. "What?" he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Vani didn’t repeat herself. She simply watched as the realization dawned on his face—the shock, the disbelief, and then the slow-burning agony of betrayal.

Without another word, Vani turned and walked away, leaving Purushotham frozen in place, his world crashing around him.

Later that night, Aruna sat on her bed, her phone pressed to her ear. Vani’s voice came through the speaker, calm and composed.

"It’s done," Vani said.

A slow, devious smile spread across Aruna’s lips. Without another word, she hung up, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

Meanwhile, across town, Purushotham sat in his car, his hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. His mind was a whirlwind of emotions—anger, betrayal, heartbreak. He couldn’t think straight, but he knew one thing: he needed to talk to someone. And there was only one person who understood what Aruna was capable of.

Without hesitation, he pulled out his phone and dialed Rani’s number.

Rani picked up after a few rings, her voice sounding slightly surprised. "Purushotham sir?"

"I need to talk to you," Purushotham said, his voice heavy. "In private."

Rani hesitated for a moment before replying, "Come to my home."

A short while later, Purushotham stood outside Rani’s modest house. She opened the door, giving him a small apologetic smile as she stepped aside to let him in.

"I’m sorry for calling you to my small house, sir," she said as she led him inside. "My husband is out of town, and my mother has been looking after my child all day. I didn’t want to burden her for the night as well."

Purushotham shook his head, waving off her apology. "It’s alright," he said. "I just… I needed to talk to someone about what’s happening. And you’re the only one who knew about me and Aruna."

Rani noticed the torment in his eyes as he sat down on the small couch, his hands clasped together, his knuckles white. She sat across from him, waiting for him to speak.

After a long silence, he finally exhaled deeply. "Rani… Babu and Aruna are having an affair."

Rani’s eyes widened in shock. "What?" she whispered. "No… that can’t be."

"It’s true," Purushotham said bitterly, his voice shaking. "Vani told me everything. Aruna and Babu… they’re together. That’s why she rejected me."

Rani’s mind raced as she processed this revelation. She had noticed Aruna and Babu becoming unusually close, but she had never imagined it could be this. "I noticed them becoming close," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I never expected… this."

Purushotham let out a hollow laugh, leaning forward and running a hand over his face. "You know, Rani," he said, his voice laced with bitterness, "I’ve had many affairs. I used every trick in the book—sweet lies, false promises—just to get what I wanted. I manipulated innocent girls, made them believe in dreams that I had no intention of fulfilling. I played with their emotions, all for my own pleasure."

Rani swallowed, listening intently.

"And now…" Purushotham let out a shuddering breath. "Karma has finally struck back at me." His voice cracked as he continued, "The one woman I truly fell in love with—the only one I ever wanted for real—has been taken from me. And not by some stranger… but by my best friend." He clenched his jaw. "And not just any affair… but a forbidden one."

His body trembled as the weight of his words sank in, and suddenly, tears spilled down his face. He broke down completely, unable to hold back his anguish any longer.

Rani, moved by his pain, hesitated for only a second before leaning forward and wrapping her arms around him. It wasn’t romantic—it was an embrace of shared sorrow, of understanding. She knew what it was like to love and to lose, to feel trapped in mistakes that couldn’t be undone.

Purushotham buried his face in her shoulder, his body wracked with silent sobs. Rani gently rubbed his back, offering the only comfort she could.

Rani gently patted Purushotham’s back as he slowly regained control over his emotions. He wiped his face, his breath still uneven, while she sat beside him, offering quiet support.

After a moment of silence, Rani spoke softly. "Sir… you have been kind to me."

Purushotham lifted his gaze, his eyes still red from the tears.

"You didn’t judge me when I told you about my affair with Babu," she continued, her voice filled with gratitude. "You didn’t look at me with disgust or call me names. You just… understood."

Purushotham let out a bitter chuckle. "Who am I to judge, Rani? I’ve done worse."

She shook her head. "That’s not the point. The point is, you are different. You’re not just another selfish man who only thinks about himself. You may have made mistakes, but I’ve seen your heart. And I know that you’re capable of love—the real kind."

Purushotham looked down, his fingers gripping his knees. "What does that even matter now? The only woman I ever truly loved has betrayed me."

Rani sighed. "I know it hurts, sir. But don’t let this break you. You’re special. And one day, you’ll find someone who will see you for the man you really are."

Purushotham let out a deep breath, staring into the distance. He wanted to believe her words, but right now, all he could feel was the sting of betrayal. Still, a small part of him clung to the comfort she was offering.

"Thank you, Rani," he murmured, his voice raw.

She gave him a small, sad smile. "You deserve happiness, sir. Even if you don’t see it now."

For the first time in a long while, neither of them felt alone.

Purushotham looked into Rani’s eyes, filled with a mix of pity and kindness, and felt something stir within him that he hadn’t expected. The pain of his shattered heart mingled with an intense yearning for human connection. Without another thought, he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers. Rani’s eyes widened in surprise, but she didn’t pull away. Her soft, full lips responded to his in a tentative, yet earnest kiss that spoke of shared sorrow and the desperate need for solace. His large, calloused hands found their way to her waist, pulling her closer. Her smaller, more feminine frame molded against his tall, broad frame, a stark contrast to the gentle touch of her husband, Ashok. The kiss grew in urgency, their tongues dancing together as they sought refuge from the storm of emotions outside their embrace. It was a kiss that transcended the physical, a silent promise of understanding and support in a world that had just crumbled around them. And for a brief moment, the weight of his betrayal lifted, and Purushotham felt alive again.

Rani’s hands trembled as she began to undo the buttons of Purushotham’s shirt, her eyes lingering on his broad chest, the muscles rippling beneath the fabric. As the shirt fell away, she couldn’t help but admire his physique—his powerful shoulders, the dusting of dark hair that trailed down his torso, leading to his tight abs. The sight of him was a stark contrast to her mundane life, a visual feast of masculine power that made her body respond in ways she hadn’t felt in a long time. His size was intimidating yet thrilling, a testament to his strength and vitality. Purushotham’s eyes never left hers as he helped her out of her blouse, revealing her ample breasts, the nipples hardening in anticipation. His hands traced the curves of her waist, the softness of her skin making him realize just how much he had been craving the touch of a woman. The tension between them grew as they undressed, each layer of clothing shed revealing more of their desperate need for connection, for the heat and passion that only two bodies could provide.

Purushotham gently laid Rani on the bed, her eyes wide with a mix of trepidation and excitement. He knelt before her, his eyes devouring the sight of her exposed pussy, the plump lips glistening with her arousal. He leaned in, capturing her gaze with his own, and kissed her inner thighs tenderly. His breath was hot against her skin, sending shivers up her spine. With a gentle touch, he parted her folds, revealing the delicate, pink flesh beneath. Rani’s body tensed as he brushed his mustache against her clit, causing her to gasp. He took it as an invitation and dipped his tongue into her wetness, tasting her for the first time. She was sweet and musky, and his cock grew harder with every passing second. He slid a finger inside her, feeling her tightness clench around him, and he knew she was a virgin in this act. His mouth found her clit again, and he began to suckle and nibble at the sensitive bud, feeling her body arch in response. Rani’s moans grew louder as he explored her with his tongue, the unfamiliar sensation driving her wild. Her hips began to rock against his face as he worked his digit in and out of her, his thumb circling her clit. She had never felt anything so intense, so primal, and she knew she was close. With one final, deep suck, he sent her over the edge, her body convulsing as she reached a climax she never knew existed. Her pussy spasmed around his finger as she rode the waves of pleasure, her eyes rolling back in her head. As she came down from the peak, she looked at him, her face flushed with satisfaction, and whispered, "I’ve never felt anything like that before."

Rani’s eyes widened as Purushotham climbed on top of her, his muscular frame dominating the space between them. She felt his cock, not as monstrous as Babu’s, but certainly larger than Ashok’s, pressing against her soaking wet pussy. He didn’t waste a moment, positioning himself at her entrance and sliding in with a groan that resonated deep in her core. His strokes varied between deep and hard, filling her completely, and fast and furious, making her body quiver beneath him. Each plunge hit a spot inside her that she had never experienced with her husband, sending waves of pleasure rippling through her. Her breasts bounced with each of his thrusts, her nipples sensitive and erect from his earlier attention. Her legs wrapped around his waist, pulling him in deeper, urging him on. His hands roamed over her curves, squeezing her breasts, his thumbs playing with her now-sensitive nipples, making her moan in ecstasy. The combination of his skilled strokes and the way he touched her made Rani feel like she was truly desired, like she was more than just a wife or a mistress. It was a heady sensation that she didn’t want to end. Her hips met his rhythm, rising to meet each thrust, eager for more. The room was filled with the sound of their bodies colliding, their breaths mingling as they pushed each other closer and closer to the edge. The sensation built within her, coiling tight like a spring, until she couldn’t hold back any longer. With a cry of pure bliss, she shattered around him, her pussy clenching tightly around his shaft, her orgasm rolling through her like a tidal wave.

Rani’s mind was a whirlwind of sensations as she lay there, her body still trembling from the intensity of her orgasm. In comparison to Babu’s clumsy and rookie lovemaking, Purushotham’s skilled touch had taken her to heights she never knew existed. His cock, while not monstrously large like her ex lover, had hit all the right spots, leaving her feeling more satisfied than she ever had before. His experience and passion were evident in every stroke, and she found herself craving more. As he continued to thrust into her, she couldn’t help but think of the stark contrast between the two men. With Babu, she had always felt used, a mere plaything to satisfy his desires, but with Purushotham, she felt cherished. His every move, every kiss, every caress was deliberate, aimed to give her pleasure, and it was working. Her body responded to him in ways she didn’t know were possible, and she found herself eagerly matching his rhythm, her pussy clenching around his shaft as she climbed towards another peak. The room was filled with the sounds of their passionate cries, their bodies moving in harmony as they danced closer to the precipice of ecstasy. Despite the pain of her betrayal, this moment with Purushotham was something she hadn’t realized she needed, something that made her feel alive and desired in a way she had long ago forgotten.

As the intensity of her climax began to wane, Purushotham slowly pulled out of Rani, his cock glistening with their combined juices. He looked down at her, his eyes filled with a mix of lust and tenderness. She watched as he leaned back on his knees, his chest heaving with exertion, and stroked himself a few times before erupting in a powerful climax that spattered hot, thick ropes of cum across her belly. She lay there, her chest rising and falling rapidly, feeling the sticky warmth of his release against her skin. The sight of him, lost in pleasure, brought a fresh wave of arousal to her core, making her clit throb with need. They remained like that for a moment, their bodies entwined, their breathing synchronized, before reality began to seep back into their consciousness. The weight of what they had done hung heavy in the air, but the connection they had just shared was undeniable. Purushotham collapsed beside her, his arm wrapping around her waist and pulling her close, their bodies sticking together from the sweat and cum that coated them both. They lay in silence, the only sounds in the room their heavy breaths and the distant hum of the city outside. Despite the mess and the guilt, there was a strange comfort in the aftermath, a shared secret that bound them closer than ever before. As the night grew darker, they knew that their lives had been forever changed by this one, illicit act of passion and solace.

End of Chapter 13​

 

[Umakant007]

Best #Erotic, #Full_of_Suspense, #full of Drama ... Novel I read recently... donga0092019 ... No words but only Best story...

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 14: Long Shadows

Sai hesitated for a moment before knocking on Rani’s door. The last time they had spoken, he had lashed out at her, letting his disappointment cloud his words. He knew he had been too harsh, and while he still disapproved of her choices, he didn’t want to lose their friendship over it.

Rani opened the door, her expression unreadable. She looked at him for a moment before stepping aside. "Come in," she said flatly.

Sai walked inside, noticing the dim lighting in the house. The air smelled faintly of incense and the lingering scent of perfume. Rani led him toward the bedroom, as she always did when they had personal conversations. It was their usual space, away from the world’s eyes.

She sat down on the bed, crossing her arms. "So? What is it now?"

Sai exhaled, sitting down on the chair beside the dressing table. "I came to apologize," he said, meeting her gaze. "I was too harsh the other day. I shouldn't have spoken to you like that."

Rani raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Oh? Now you regret it?"

Sai nodded. "I do. No matter what happened, you’ve always been a good friend to me. I shouldn’t have judged you."

For a moment, her expression softened. "Well… at least you realized it."

As Sai leaned forward, his eyes landed on something on the bedside table—a luxury men’s watch. It wasn’t just any watch. It was distinctive, expensive-looking, and completely out of place in Rani’s modest home.

His brows furrowed slightly. "Nice watch," he said casually. "Is it Ashok’s?"

Rani glanced at the watch briefly before shifting her eyes away. "No, it’s not," she said, a little too quickly.

Sai picked up the watch, turning it in his hands. "It’s expensive. Who gave it to you?"

Rani snatched the watch from his hands and placed it back on the table. "It doesn’t matter."

Sai leaned back, crossing his arms. "Rani, come on. Who gave it to you?"

Rani exhaled sharply, her patience thinning. "Sai, just drop it."

He narrowed his eyes. "It’s Purushotham’s, isn’t it?"

Her entire body tensed for a brief second before she forced a scoff. "And if it is?"

Sai let out a bitter chuckle, shaking his head. "So it’s true. You slept with him."

Rani’s anger flared. She stood up abruptly, her hands clenched into fists. "Who the hell do you think you are to question me?!" she snapped. "What I do, who I do it with—it’s none of your damn business, Sai!"

Sai stood up too, his voice low but cutting. "You’re right. It’s your life. But don’t expect me to pretend I don’t see what’s happening. First Babu, now Purushotham—what’s next, Rani? Are you just going to move from one man to another whenever it’s convenient?"

Rani’s face twisted in fury. "Get out, Sai!" she shouted, her voice shaking. "You have no right to stand here and judge me! You think you’re better than me? At least I don’t hide behind fake morality while pretending to be a saint!"

Sai looked at her, disappointment evident in his eyes. He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "You know what? Maybe I was right the first time."

Without another word, he turned and walked out, slamming the door behind him.

Rani stood there, gripping the watch tightly, her breath ragged. The silence of the room was deafening.

For the first time, she wasn’t just angry at Sai—she was angry at herself.
Two days before the engagement, Aruna sat on the edge of her bed, her fingers tapping rhythmically against her phone. The house was quiet, the evening air carrying a deceptive calmness. She dialed a familiar number, waiting for the call to connect.

"Hello?" Sundhar Rao’s voice came through, slightly cautious.

"Uncle," Aruna said smoothly, her voice laced with careful control. "I need you to do something for me."

Sundhar Rao sighed. "What is it this time, Aruna?"

"I need you to contact Ratna Kumar, our family lawyer," she said without preamble. "Tell him to meet Amma two days from now and hand over Dad’s will."

There was silence on the other end for a moment before Sundhar Rao spoke again, his voice low and uncertain. "Aruna, is this really the right time? The engagement is in just two days. This could complicate things."

A sly smile played on Aruna’s lips as she leaned back against the pillow. "Oh, Uncle," she said, almost amused. "You know what I did to keep that a secret all these years. Don’t you think I know when to make it public?"

Sundhar Rao hesitated. He wasn’t a fool—he knew exactly what she meant. The lengths she had gone to, the strings she had pulled, the secrets she had buried. He also knew that once Aruna had made up her mind, there was no stopping her.

Finally, he let out a reluctant sigh. "Fine," he said. "I’ll talk to Ratna Kumar and make the arrangements."

"Good," Aruna said, satisfied. "And, Uncle—" she added, her tone turning almost sweet, "make sure Sunandha gets it exactly when I want her to. Not a minute earlier."

Sundhar Rao shook his head. "You’re playing a dangerous game, Aruna."

Aruna chuckled softly, twirling a lock of hair around her finger. "Life is only interesting when you know how to play it right, Uncle."

She hung up the call, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.

The pieces were moving, and soon, the game would change completely.

As Aruna hung up the call with Sundhar Rao, her fingers trembled slightly before she clenched them into a fist. Her lips curled into a knowing smirk, but beneath that surface satisfaction, a storm of unwanted memories rose from the past, pulling her back to a time she wished she could erase.
​

Seven Years Ago​

The air inside Officer Anand’s office was thick with tension. Aruna sat across from her father, Narendra, her hands clenched into fists beneath the desk. Anand, the enquiry officer, observed the scene with a neutral expression, but Aruna could sense his impatience.

Narendra had his arms crossed, his face unreadable but his eyes burning with restrained anger. Across the room, Yedukondalu stood stiffly, his expression a mix of relief and smugness as he awaited the final verdict.

Aruna swallowed hard, her mouth dry. She had come in with confidence, determined to see this through. Determined to ruin Sunandha and take away everything she held dear.

But now, as she sat in the cold, clinical office, under the sharp scrutiny of both Anand and her father, she knew in her heart that this was a mistake. It had always been a bluff.

It was supposed to be a way to humiliate Sunandha—to make her suffer, to turn her father against her stepmother. But Narendra had seen right through her.

The sharp slap of Narendra’s palm against the table echoed through the living room. Aruna sat rigidly on the couch, her face expressionless, but inside, she was shaking.

"What do you think of yourself, Aruna?" Narendra’s voice was thick with rage, his eyes dark with accusation. "You think you can just file a complaint like this and get away with it?"

Aruna met his gaze, refusing to look away.

"It’s not just a complaint, Dad," she said, her voice deceptively calm. "It’s the truth."

Deep down, she had always known.

Yedukondalu never harassed her.

Sunandha never encouraged it.

She had fabricated it all.

Narendra let out a bitter laugh, his hands tightening into fists.

"Truth?" he mocked. "Do you have any idea what you’ve done? You accused Yedukondalu of sexual harassment. And not just him—you dragged Sunandha into it, claiming she encouraged his behavior? Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds?"

"It’s not ridiculous," Aruna snapped, her calm façade cracking for the first time. "You were never here, Dad! You were always out of station, and in your absence, Yedukondalu took advantage of that power! And Sunandha—she—" Aruna faltered, her nails digging into her palms. "She let it happen. She smirked when he brushed against me, laughed when I tried to protest. She treated me like I was nothing."

Narendra’s expression hardened, his features sharp with disbelief.

"Enough, Aruna!" His voice was dangerously low now. "Yedukondalu is a trusted man. And Sunandha—she is my wife! She has built a reputation that people respect. No one—no one—will believe your words against her."

Aruna felt a chill run down her spine, but she refused to let him see it.

"So you’re saying I’m lying?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Yes," Narendra said coldly, he shook his head in disgust. "You thought this inquiry would happen discreetly and my wife would be dismissed. But even fate is against you, Aruna."

He let the words settle before leaning in, his voice lowering into a menacing whisper.

"Good things happen to good people. That is why Anand was appointed as the enquiry officer for this case."

Aruna’s heart pounded.

"And do you know what’s even more unfortunate for you?" he continued. "Anand was Sunandha’s batchmate. He worked under me as my junior, and more than that, he is a very close friend of ours."

Aruna stiffened, feeling her control slipping.

Narendra smirked, shaking his head. "Even if someone else had been assigned, do you honestly think anyone would take your side?" His eyes bore into hers, unwavering. "Against Sunandha?"

Silence filled the room, thick with tension.

Then, with a sharp motion, he gestured toward Yedukondalu, who stood motionless, his hands behind his back.

"And what’s more disappointing," Narendra added, his tone laced with disgust, "is that you dragged this innocent man into your pathetic game as well."

Aruna’s breath hitched as her father’s words cut through her like a blade.

She knew she had lost. she was trapped.

Narendra leaned back and crossed his arms, watching her. Waiting.

Anand cleared his throat. "Miss Aruna," he said, his voice neutral but firm. "You have given your statement. Do you stand by your accusations?"

Aruna swallowed the lump in her throat.

She had no choice now.

Her voice was barely a whisper when she spoke.

"No."

Anand raised an eyebrow.

She lifted her gaze and forced the words out, sealing her fate.

"I am withdrawing my complaint."

Yedukondalu let out a sigh of relief, his shoulders relaxing. Anand exchanged a quick glance with Narendra before nodding.

"Very well," Anand said. He turned to Yedukondalu. "You are free to go. All charges against you are dismissed."

Yedukondalu shot a smug glance at Aruna before nodding in gratitude to Narendra. He left the room without another word.

As soon as the door closed behind him, Narendra leaned forward, his voice dangerously low.

"I should have expected this from you, Aruna," he said, his tone laced with quiet fury. "But even I underestimated just how low you could sink."

Aruna flinched but said nothing.

Narendra exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair before glaring at her again.

"I won’t tell Sunandha about this," he continued. "I don’t want her to know that my own daughter is nothing but a vicious serpent."

Aruna felt her stomach twist at his words.

"But don’t think you’re walking away unscathed," he said, his expression darkening. "I will make sure that you are at her mercy. I will make the necessary changes to my will today."

Aruna’s eyes widened, panic flashing across her face.

"No, Dad—"

"You don’t get to talk!" he barked, his voice like a whip. "You wanted to play dirty? Fine. Now you’ll pay the price."

He stood up, his towering frame looming over her.

"Now get out of my sight," he hissed. "I don’t want you anywhere near my house or my wife."

Aruna sat frozen for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest.

Then, without another word, she stood up, turned on her heel, and walked out.

Continued in the next part….​

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 14 part 2

As Aruna walked out of Anand’s office, her father’s furious words echoed in her ears, but she refused to dwell on the humiliation. That wasn’t her biggest concern right now was the will.

She knew her father wasn't bluffing. Narendra was a man of his word—if he said he would make changes to his will, he would. And knowing him, he would make sure she was left with nothing.

Her heartbeat quickened.”I can’t let that happen.” She told herself.

Her father had only one legal advisor who handled all his matters—Ratna Kumar, their family lawyer. If any modifications were to be made, it would be through him.

A slow smirk crept onto Aruna’s lip but she needed to be careful. She couldn’t afford another mistake.

Aruna walked into Ratna Kumar’s office, putting on her best act. She had practiced this moment in her mind the entire way here.

“Uncle Ratna Kumar garu…” she greeted sweetly, forcing her eyes to glisten with false sincerity. “I came to seek your guidance.”

Ratna Kumar, a shrewd and experienced man, leaned back in his chair and folded his arms. “Cut the act, Aruna. I know exactly why you’re here.”

Her smile faltered for a second. “Uncle, I don’t understa—”

“Stop it,” he interrupted, his sharp gaze cutting through her pretense. “Anand told me everything. About Yedukondalu, about your false complaint… and about how far you were willing to go to destroy Sunandha.”

Aruna clenched her jaw, realizing that there was no point in pretending.

“So?” she said, regaining her composure. “You’re close to my father. But even the most loyal men can be… persuaded.”

Ratna Kumar chuckled darkly. “You think a little money can buy my loyalty? You have no idea how deep my ties with Narendra run.”

Aruna didn’t flinch. “Then tell me what will.”

Ratna Kumar studied her, then leaned forward, his voice lowering to a whisper. “If you were willing to sleep with an attender just to ruin Sunandha, then surely… spending a night with a reputed lawyer like me isn’t too much to ask.”

Aruna stiffened for just a second, but she held his gaze, her expression unreadable.

For the first time in this conversation, Ratna Kumar saw the real Aruna—calculating, fearless, and entirely without shame.

Aruna leaned forward slightly, a slow, dangerous smile forming on her lips. “You should have just said that in the beginning, Uncle.”

In the opulent hotel suite, Aruna slipped into the ensuite washroom, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and trepidation. She knew the stakes of this game and the power she held in her delicate hands. Emerging from the steamy sanctuary, she stepped into the plush, dimly lit bedroom, her curvaceous body enveloped in a scandalously short, lacy baby doll dress that clung to her like a second skin. The fabric was so sheer it revealed the dark outline of her erect nipples beneath, straining against the flimsy cups. The dress ended high on her thighs, showcasing her sleek legs that seemed to go on forever. She had chosen it carefully to leave no doubt about her willingness to pay the ultimate price for her uncle's aid. As she approached Ratna Kumar, who was lounging on the couch, his eyes raked over her form with a hunger that sent a thrill through her core. She could see the bulge in his pants, a testament to his desire for her young, ripe flesh.

Ratna Kumar’s gaze devoured Aruna as she approached, his eyes lingering on her swollen nipples and the way the dress clung to her curves. He couldn’t believe his luck. “You’re even more beautiful than I imagined, Aruna,” he murmured, his voice thick with lust. “I’ve watched you strut around, all those tight jeans and low-cut tops. I never thought I’d get the chance to see you like this, let alone fuck you.”

Aruna sat down next to Ratna Kumar, her heart hammering in her chest. She took the whiskey bottle from his grasp with a confidence she didn’t truly feel. She had never been one to shy away from a challenge, and this was certainly the biggest one yet. With a steady hand, she poured two generous measures into the crystal tumblers on the coffee table. The amber liquid gleamed in the soft light, casting a seductive glow on her bare skin as she handed one to him. His eyes widened slightly, surprised by her boldness. He took the drink, raising it to his lips and watching her over the rim as he took a slow sip. Aruna mirrored his action, letting the warmth of the alcohol spread through her as she took a small sip, savoring the burn. She knew that the night ahead would be a dance of power and submission, but she was determined to maintain the upper hand.

The whiskey burned a fiery path down Aruna's throat, helping to ease the knot of nerves that had formed there. She knew that she had to be in control, to ensure that Ratna Kumar didn't get the upper hand. Her mind drifted briefly to Yedukondalu, the attender she had used and discarded for this very purpose. With him, the sex had been raw and passionate, driven by a deep, albeit twisted, connection. But here, with Ratna Kumar, it would be a cold, calculated transaction. As she felt the warmth of the alcohol spreading through her body, she knew she was ready to play the part. She set the tumbler down with a gentle clink and placed her hand on Ratna Kumar’s thigh, feeling the muscle tense beneath her touch. She began to slowly trace her fingers upwards, watching his pupils dilate with each passing inch. Her gaze never left his as she moved closer, her breath hot against his neck, and whispered, “Let’s make this a night to remember.

Ratna Kumar’s eyes widened as Aruna’s hand slithered up his thigh, but they practically popped out of his head when she reached for his belt buckle with a deftness that spoke of experience beyond her years. His heart pounded in his chest as she deftly unbuckled his pants, revealing his thick, middle-aged belly and the tented fabric of his boxers. She looked up at him, a seductive smile playing on her lips as she reached into his open fly and wrapped her soft, warm hand around his 5-inch cock. He couldn’t believe what was happening; this young, gorgeous girl was about to perform an act of carnality with a man who was practically her father’s age. Aruna felt his cock pulse in her grip, and she knew she had him right where she wanted him. With a quick, teasing tug, she pulled his boxers down, freeing his cock. It was thick and veiny, a testament to his virility despite his age. She leaned in, her long, dark hair cascading over her shoulders and tickling his stomach, and placed a soft, lingering kiss on the tip of his cock. Ratna Kumar’s breath hitched as she took him into her mouth, her warm, wet tongue swirling around the head and sending waves of pleasure through his body. He felt himself growing harder, his desire for her spiraling out of control. He was a man used to being in charge, but in this moment, he was utterly at the mercy of her skilled mouth and the promise of the night to come.

Ratna Kumar’s eyes were glued to Aruna’s full, round breasts as she seductively pulled the straps of her dress down, revealing the ample mounds that had been teasing him all evening. Her skin was the color of rich caramel, and her areolas were the size of small coins, topped with dark, erect nipples that begged for his attention. Aruna leaned back, giving him full access as he greedily grabbed her breasts, kneading them like dough in his rough, eager hands. He could feel her body responding to his touch, her nipples growing even harder as he pinched and twisted them lightly. His mouth watered as he leaned in, capturing one in his mouth, suckling it deep and hard, his teeth grazing the sensitive flesh. Aruna’s breath hitched and she let out a soft moan, her hand tangling in his hair as she urged him on. His tongue swirled around the tip, then latched onto it with a fervor that surprised even her. His teeth gently grazed the sensitive nubs, and she felt a jolt of pleasure shoot straight to her pussy. This was the price she had agreed to pay, but the way he handled her body made her feel like a treasure, not a commodity. It was a strange feeling, one she hadn’t quite anticipated, but she knew it was crucial to keep him satisfied if she wanted to ensure her victory in this twisted game of power and seduction.

They both stood from the couch, Aruna's heart racing with a mix of fear and excitement. She knew the stakes had just been raised, but she was determined not to show it. As they approached the king-sized bed, the thong she wore was the only barrier to her exposed, wet pussy, and Ratna Kumar couldn’t help but stare at her shapely ass that swayed with each step she took. Without warning, he reached out and smacked her firmly on the ass cheek, the sound echoing through the room like a crack of a whip. The pain shot through Aruna’s body, but she bit her lip and offered a seductive smile in response, her eyes never leaving his. She knew that any sign of weakness would be her undoing, so she took a deep breath and let the sensation of his hand on her flesh fuel her performance. As they reached the bed, Ratna Kumar grabbed the waistband of her thong and ripped it away, revealing her glistening pussy. He pushed her down onto the plush mattress, and she felt the coolness of the sheets against her fevered skin. Her legs parted automatically, inviting him in, and he didn’t waste any time. His mouth found hers in a brutal kiss, his tongue invading her mouth as his hands roamed her body, feeling every curve and crevice. Aruna moaned into the kiss, her body responding to his touch despite her reservations. She knew that this was just the beginning of a long, intense night where she would have to use every ounce of her sexuality to win the prize she so desperately sought.

Ratna Kumar’s cock was a beast now, fueled by the whiskey and his insatiable lust for Aruna’s young, tight pussy. He wore a condom and positioned himself at her entrance and plunged in, making her gasp as he stretched her walls. Aruna’s eyes went wide with a mix of shock and pleasure, her hands clutching the sheets as he began to fuck her with a ferocity that spoke of his desperation to conquer. His hips pistoned into her, his thick member pounding away like a hammer on an anvil. Each thrust sent a jolt of electricity through her body, making her toes curl and her back arch. She could feel her pussy stretching to accommodate his girth, her inner muscles clenching around him in an involuntary spasm that only made him drive deeper. The sound of their bodies slapping together filled the room, a rhythmic symphony of lust and power. He wasn’t gentle, nor did he care to be; he was claiming her, marking her as his. Her pussy was wet and sloppy with desire, and she could feel herself getting closer to the edge with every stroke. The pleasure was intense, almost painful, but she knew that she had to endure it if she wanted to win. She bit her lip to stifle a moan, her eyes locked with Ratna Kumar’s as she silently waged her own battle for dominance. Her body responded to his roughness, her hips bucking up to meet his, her walls contracting around him. The friction was maddening, the heat between them palpable. He grunted with each thrust, his breath hot and ragged on her neck. She could feel his orgasm building, his cock swelling inside her. It was time to play her final card. With a feline grace, Aruna reached between them and began to rub her clit in tight circles, her other hand reaching up to squeeze her breast, her thumb teasing her nipple. Ratna Kumar’s eyes widened at the sight, his pace quickening. She knew she had him, and as she felt her climax building, she whispered in his ear, “Cum for me, Uncle. Cum for me, and I’ll make sure you never regret this night.”


The words were like a spell, and with a roar, Ratna Kumar emptied himself inside her, his cock pulsing with his release. The sensation sent Aruna over the edge, her own orgasm crashing over her like a tidal wave. She cried out, her body shaking with pleasure, her pussy clamping down on his cock as if to milk every last drop from him. They lay there, both panting and slick with sweat, their bodies entwined in the aftermath of their carnal bargain. Aruna felt a sense of triumph, but also a strange emptiness. She had given herself to this man for her own ends, and while she had enjoyed it, she knew it was a transaction that had left her a little more broken, a little less innocent. But she had what she wanted, and in the world of dirty politics and personal vendetta, sometimes you had to get your hands—and your pussy—a little dirty to get ahead. As Ratna Kumar collapsed beside her, she couldn’t help but wonder if she had paid too high a price for her victory.

But the night was not over. A couple of hours later, Aruna found herself on all fours on the bed, her curvy ass high in the air, as Ratna Kumar mounted her from behind like a wild stallion. The alcohol had loosened his inhibitions and fueled his lust, transforming him into a relentless beast driven by desire. His cock, still engorged from their earlier encounter, slammed into her pussy with a ferocity that left her gasping for air. The sound of his grunts and her muffled moans filled the room, punctuated by the slap of flesh on flesh. Her long hair fell in a curtain around her face, obscuring her expression of mixed pleasure and pain. She could feel the headboard knocking against the wall with each punishing thrust, and she knew that she was nothing more than a vessel for his carnality. Yet, she took it all, her body moving in rhythm with his, her walls tightening around his shaft as she approached another peak of ecstasy. Each stroke sent waves of sensation through her, a reminder of the power she wielded over him. Despite the depravity of their situation, she couldn’t help but feel a twisted sense of satisfaction knowing that she was in control, that she had him right where she wanted him—vulnerable and desperate for her tight, wet cunt. Her orgasm built once more, and as it crested, she whispered in his ear, “Remember our deal, Uncle. You’ll keep your promise, won’t you?” His only response was a guttural grunt of affirmation as he chased his own release, pumping the condom in her pussy full of his seed as he collapsed onto her back, their bodies entwined in a sticky mess of sweat and lust. Aruna couldn’t help but smirk into the pillow, feeling a sense of victory despite the ache between her legs.



Continued in the next part……​

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 14 part 3

The next day, Aruna walked into Ratna Kumar’s office with an air of authority, her eyes cold and unwavering. She had spent the night planning this moment, and now, she was ready to claim her prize.

Ratna Kumar glanced up from his desk, masking his unease with forced confidence. “Aruna… you’re here early.”

Aruna didn’t bother with pleasantries. She placed both hands on his desk and leaned in slightly. “Show me the will.”

Ratna Kumar sighed, shaking his head. “Aruna, these things take time. Give me one more night. I promise I’ll—”

She cut him off with a smirk. “I knew you’d pull something like this. That’s why I came prepared.”

Ratna Kumar frowned. “What do you mean?”

Aruna took out her phone, unlocked it, and turned the screen toward him. His eyes widened in horror as he saw the video playing—him, drunk and vulnerable, entangled with Aruna. His face lost all color.

“When… when did you…?” he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

Aruna leaned back, crossing her arms. “You were too drunk to notice.” Her tone was almost mocking. “If I show this to your wife, your life will be finished.”

Ratna Kumar swallowed hard, sweat forming on his forehead. He had underestimated her. Most people would have hesitated, afraid of ruining themselves in the process. But Aruna wasn’t like most people. He could see it in her eyes—she didn’t care if the truth destroyed both of them, as long as she got what she wanted.

He exhaled sharply, defeated.

“Fine,” he muttered, reaching into his desk drawer. He pulled out a file and handed it to her. “This is a copy of your father’s will. The original is registered and kept at the Sub-Registrar’s office. I can show you this, but I can’t change the contents.”

Aruna took the file with a satisfied smile, flipping through the pages quickly.

“You did the right thing, Uncle,” she said mockingly. “I knew you were a reasonable man.”

Ratna Kumar slumped back in his chair, knowing that he had lost. He could only watch in silence as Aruna read her father’s will.
​

LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT​

OF KOLLA NARENDRA PRASAD

Date: [Insert Date]

I, Kolla Narendra Prasad, son of Ram Prasad, residing at [Permanent Address], being of sound mind and disposing memory, hereby revoke all previous wills and testamentary dispositions made by me and declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
​

I. APPOINTMENT OF EXECUTOR​

I appoint Ratna Kumar, Advocate, residing at [Executor’s Address], as the Executor of this will. In the event that he is unable or unwilling to act, I appoint Sundhar Rao as the alternate executor.
​

II. DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS​

1. Immovable Properties:​

I own the following immovable properties, which shall be distributed as follows:
​

1. Residential House in Guntur – I bequeath my house situated in Guntur, more particularly described as [Property Details], to my children from my first marriage, Aruna, Venu, and Vani, in equal shares.​
2. Agricultural Land in Kakani (6 acres) – I bequeath the 6-acre agricultural land situated in Kakani, more particularly described as [Land Details], to Aruna, Venu, and Vani, in equal shares.​
3. Residential House in Hyderabad – I bequeath my house situated in Hyderabad, more particularly described as [Property Details], to my wife Sunandha and our son Babu jointly.​
4. Agricultural Land in Kazipet (3 acres) – I bequeath the 3-acre agricultural land situated in Kazipet, more particularly described as [Land Details], to my wife Sunandha and our son Babu jointly.​

2. Control and Management of Property​

Notwithstanding the above distribution, my wife, Sunandha, shall have full control over the entire property during her lifetime. She shall have the sole discretion to manage, lease, or derive income from all properties, including those bequeathed to my first wife’s children.

Furthermore, Sunandha shall have the authority to amend or write out any beneficiary from this will if she deems it necessary, except for the properties legally transferred to my children’s names.
​

III. GENERAL PROVISIONS​

1. Any disputes arising from the interpretation or execution of this Will shall be resolved amicably among the beneficiaries. If no resolution is reached, the matter shall be settled in the [Relevant Court Jurisdiction].​
2. In the event that any beneficiary challenges this Will, they shall automatically forfeit their share.​
3. Any outstanding debts or liabilities shall be settled from my estate before distribution.​

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, Narendra [Full Name], have signed this Last Will and Testament on this [Date], in the presence of the undersigned witnesses who have attested to the same.

Signature: ___________________
Kolla Narendra Prasad

WITNESSES:
​

1. Name: ___________________
   Signature: ________________
   Address: __________________​
2. Name: ___________________
   Signature: ________________
   Address: __________________​

As soon as Aruna read the will, her hands trembled with rage. Her eyes darted across the document, rereading the crucial lines over and over again, as if hoping she had misinterpreted them. But the truth was undeniable.

Her breath hitched, and in a sudden outburst, she threw the papers onto Ratna Kumar’s desk. “That bastard did it!” she cried, her voice shaking with fury. “He really threw me at the mercy of that bitch!” Her chest heaved as she tried to compose herself, but the more she thought about it, the angrier she became.

“Not just me,” she seethed, gripping the edge of the desk. “He did this to my brother and sister too. Vani… Venu… we are all at her mercy now!” Aruna clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as the reality of her father’s betrayal settled in.

Ratna Kumar watched in silence, gauging her reaction. He had expected anger, but this raw, unfiltered hatred surpassed even his assumptions. He leaned back in his chair, watching Aruna’s rage and anguish . After a brief pause, he cleared his throat and spoke in a measured tone.

“To my knowledge, your father never told Sunandha about this will.”

Aruna’s eyes narrowed. “What?”

“In fact,” Ratna Kumar continued, “I doubt she even knows the full extent of the properties that are in Narendra’s name. He handled all financial matters personally. She may be aware of the Hyderabad house and Kazipet land, but beyond that? I don’t think so.”

Aruna remained silent for a moment, digesting this new information. Then, a slow smile played on her lips. “So, she doesn't know that she has everything under her control ?”

Ratna Kumar smirked. “Exactly.”

Aruna sat down and started to think. Ratna Kumar studied her carefully. “What are you planning?”

Aruna sighed, folding the will carefully and placing it back on the desk. “I don’t know what to do now,” she admitted, her voice calmer but still laced with frustration. “But I can only hope that an opportunity will present itself.”

“Before you get ahead of yourself,” Ratna Kumar interjected, “there’s one more thing you should know. Your father appointed an alternate executor for the will.”

Aruna raised an eyebrow. “Who?”

“Sundar Rao.”

Aruna let out a scoff, then leaned back in her chair with a satisfied smirk. “Don’t worry about him. I already have him wrapped around my fingers.”

Ratna Kumar gave her a knowing look. “Then I suppose you are all set .”

She turned toward the door, ready to leave.

“Wait,” Ratna Kumar called out, eyeing her cautiously. “What about the video?”

Aruna paused, then glanced over her shoulder with a knowing smirk. “I’ll keep it as insurance,” she said smoothly. “You never know when something like that might come in handy.”

With that, she walked out, leaving Ratna Kumar watching her retreating figure, a mixture of unease and fright flickering across his face.

Two years ago, when her father passed away, Aruna attended the funeral—not out of grief, but to assess the situation. She carefully observed every interaction, every expression, searching for any sign that Sunandha knew about the will.

When Sunandha greeted her with genuine affection and kindness, Aruna immediately realized the truth—Sunandha had no idea about the will or the control she held over the entire property. This knowledge gave Aruna an upper hand.

Without wasting time, she met Ratna Kumar in private and instructed him not to reveal the contents of the will to anyone until she decided otherwise. She knew that as long as Sunandha remained ignorant, she could manipulate the situation to her advantage. And now, two years later, that time had finally come.

Aruna entered Babu’s room, closing the door behind her. She leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching him pace restlessly.

“Babu,” she said firmly, making him stop and look at her. “Go to Amma and tell her you don’t want to marry Gita.”

Babu frowned, hesitation clear on his face. “Akka… with just two days left for the engagement, is this really the right time? Maybe I’m too late. Maybe I should just go through with it.”

Aruna stepped closer, placing a hand on his arm. “No, Babu. This is the perfect time.”

He looked at her doubtfully. “How can you say that? Wouldn’t it have been better if I told her earlier?”

Aruna shook her head. “If you had told her earlier, Amma would have tried everything to convince you. She might have even found out that Gita was also hesitant, and then she would have done everything in her power to make this marriage happen. But now, with only two days left, she won’t have the time to pressure you into changing your mind. She’ll be forced to accept it.”

Babu sighed, running a hand through his hair. “But she’ll be so hurt…”

Aruna tightened her grip on his arm, her voice gentle but firm. “Amma loves you, Babu. She might be upset, but she will have no choice but to understand. Do you really want to spend your life in a marriage you don’t want?”

Babu exhaled slowly, looking at her, his mind clouded with emotion. His trust in Aruna wasn’t just because she was his sister—there was something deeper, something unspoken, something forbidden. And it made it impossible for him to doubt her.

Taking a deep breath, he finally nodded. “Alright, Akka. I’ll talk to Amma now.”

Aruna smiled, satisfaction flickering in her eyes as she watched him leave the room.

Aruna’s phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen. It was Sundar Rao. She answered the call, leaning back in her chair.

“Did you do as I asked?” she inquired without preamble.

“Yes,” Sundar Rao replied. “Ratna Kumar will meet Sunandha as planned and give her the will.”

“Good,” Aruna said, satisfied.

“There’s something else,” Sundar Rao continued. “Ratna Kumar mentioned something interesting. Do you remember Anand, the enquiry officer?”

Aruna frowned. “Of course. What about him?”

“Well, according to Ratna Kumar, Anand had a crush on Sunandha. That’s why he never got married.”

Aruna rolled her eyes. “I’m not interested in this nonsense.”

Sundar Rao chuckled. “Maybe not, but think about it. Anand was a good friend of your father. If he truly had feelings for Sunandha, he might still be looking out for her. There’s every chance he could tell her the truth.”

Aruna’s expression darkened for a brief moment before she exhaled slowly. “I already considered that,” she said. “I’ve planned every step carefully, and I won’t let anything slip out of my control. So don’t worry about Anand or anything else.”

Sundar Rao hesitated for a moment before responding. “If you say so.”

“I do,” Aruna said firmly. “Just stick to what I ask you to do. Everything else is under control.”

She ended the call, a confident smirk playing on her lips. Everything was moving according to her plan.


End of Chapter 14​

 

[PechuLaal]

very well written... Very nice story... Please update

 

[Umakant007]

donga0092019 please update...

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 15: Crossing Shadows

Babu hesitated outside Sunandha’s room before finally gathering his courage and stepping in. Sunandha, who was going through some papers, looked up and smiled.

“What is it, Babu?” she asked.

Babu took a deep breath. “Amma… I don’t want to marry Gita.”

Sunandha’s smile faded, and she placed the papers down carefully. “What?”

“I don’t want to get married,” Babu repeated, avoiding her gaze.

Sunandha’s brows furrowed. “Why? What happened?”

“There’s no reason. I just… don’t want to,” he muttered.

For a moment, Sunandha simply stared at him, processing his words. Then, her expression hardened. “No reason? Do you think this is a game, Babu? You agreed to this engagement. Gita and her family are counting on us, and now, just two days before the ceremony, you suddenly say you don’t want to marry?”

Babu remained silent, clenching his fists.

Sunandha’s voice rose with anger. “I have had enough of your recklessness! You’ve neglected your studies, you’re wasting your life without a job, and you have no sense of responsibility. You’re living off me without any plans for your future, and now you’re ruining an innocent girl’s life?”

Babu flinched at her words but still refused to answer.

Sunandha stood up, frustration evident in her stance. “You and Gita got intimate, Babu. Don’t think I don’t know. You crossed a line with her, and now you want to walk away as if it means nothing?”

Babu’s eyes widened slightly, but he quickly masked his reaction.

Unbeknownst to them, Aruna stood behind the slightly open door, listening intently. A satisfied smirk appeared on her lips as she observed the heated argument, waiting for the right moment to step in.

Babu clenched his fists, his patience running thin. Sunandha’s accusations kept piling up, and he could feel his anger bubbling over.

“Enough, Amma!” he snapped, his voice cutting through the air like a whip. “I haven’t done anything wrong. The relationship I had with Gita was consensual. No one can clap with a single hand.”

Sunandha’s face turned red with fury. “Are you even listening to yourself?” she shouted. “I am disgusted by you, Babu! Is this how you honor our family? How you honor your father?”

Babu’s eyes darkened, his expression unreadable. Then, in a low but firm voice, he said, “You cannot teach me about honoring my dad.”

Sunandha looked taken aback. “What do you mean?”

“I’m not blind, Amma,” Babu continued, his voice laced with bitterness. “Don’t you think I see what’s going on between you and that Prakash?”

Sunandha’s breath caught in her throat. For a moment, she just stood there, completely stunned into silence.

Outside the door, Aruna’s smirk faltered. Her eyes narrowed as she absorbed Babu’s words. Sunandha and Prakash? she thought, stunned. How did I miss that?

Her mind raced. This was unexpected… but also very interesting. A new opportunity. A new weakness. And Aruna never let weaknesses go to waste.

Sunandha took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. Babu’s words had shaken her, but she wouldn’t let them go unanswered.

“How can you accuse me like this, Babu?” she asked, her voice laced with disbelief. “Do you really think what you did to Gita and what I have with Prakash are the same?”

“Yes!” Babu interrupted abruptly, his voice sharp and unyielding.

Sunandha's eyes widened in shock.

“You are a hypocrite, Amma,” Babu spat out. “If you are right, then I am right too. And if I am wrong, then so are you.”

Sunandha felt something inside her snap. This was her son—the boy she had raised, the boy she had sacrificed so much for—and now he was standing here, throwing accusations at her as if she were some disgrace.

Her voice trembled, but not with weakness—with rage. “I have had enough, Babu. Get out of my house!”

Babu flinched but didn’t back down. He stared at her for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, without another word, he turned and walked away.

Sunandha stood there, her chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. The house suddenly felt suffocatingly silent.

Outside, Aruna smirked. This is better than I expected, she thought. The cracks are deepening.

As Babu stormed out of the room, Aruna stepped into his path, reaching for his arm.

“Babu, wait! Please don’t go like this,” she pleaded, her voice laced with concern.

But Babu barely spared her a glance. He shrugged off her touch and walked away without a word.

Aruna turned back to Sunandha, her face painted with worry. “Amma, what is happening? Why are you both fighting like this?”

Sunandha let out a heavy sigh, shaking her head in exhaustion. “Let him go, Aruna. I have had enough of his antics. I’m done.”

Aruna lowered her gaze as if saddened, but the moment Sunandha turned away, a wicked smile curled on her lips. Everything is falling into place.

Few hours later, Babu stormed into Purushotham’s house, his face flushed with frustration. Purushotham, lounging on his cot, sat up straight at the sight of his friend’s distressed expression.

“What happened?” Purushotham asked, lighting a cigarette.

Babu ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. “I told Amma I don’t want to marry Gita. She lost it. Threw me out of the house.”

Purushotham scoffed. “What did you expect? The engagement is in two days, and you suddenly drop this on her?”

Babu ignored his tone. “I need your help, man. You know my mom listens to you. Talk to her. Make her understand.”

Purushotham took a slow drag, his eyes narrowing. “Understand what? That you’re backing out like a coward? That you’re ruining a girl’s life for your own selfish reasons?”

Babu’s jaw tightened. “It’s not like that. Gita herself has doubts—”

“Bullshit!” Purushotham snapped, throwing the cigarette to the ground. He stood up, his voice rising with anger. “You’re lying through your fucking teeth! I know why you don’t want to marry her.”

Babu took a step back. “What are you talking about?”

Purushotham laughed bitterly, shaking his head. “Don’t act innocent. I know you’re fucking Aruna.”

Babu froze.

Purushotham’s face twisted in disgust. “She’s your sister, man! Your fucking sister! How the hell can you do that?”

Babu’s hands clenched into fists. “Watch your mouth, Purushotham.”

“Or what?” Purushotham sneered, stepping closer. “You’ll hit me? Go ahead! But it won’t change the fact that you’ve lost your fucking mind! This isn’t just some cheap fling, Babu! This is sick!”

Babu’s breath was heavy, his mind racing. He had expected anger from his mother, but he wasn’t prepared for this confrontation.

Purushotham took another step forward, his voice lowering but still filled with venom. “You think people won’t find out? That you can keep this dirty little secret forever? Wake the fuck up! You’re playing with fire, and it’s going to burn you alive.”

Babu remained silent, his pulse pounding.

Purushotham shook his head one last time. “Go ahead with the engagement. Do the right thing. Or keep chasing that twisted fantasy of yours and watch your whole damn life collapse.”

Babu turned and stormed out without another word.

Purushotham stood there, breathing heavily, fists clenched. This is worse than I thought.

Babu paced along the dimly lit street, his mind in turmoil. Pulling out his phone, he dialed Aruna’s number. She picked up almost immediately.

“What happened?” she asked, her voice calm, almost expectant.

Babu exhaled sharply. “I went to Purushotham… asked him to talk to Amma. Thought maybe he could fix things.”

Aruna’s grip on the phone tightened. Purushotham is the only one who could talk to Sunandha and convince her to forgive Babu. If anyone could ruin her plans, it was him.

“And?” she asked carefully.

“He lost his shit.” Babu’s voice was laced with frustration. “He said he knows about us.”

Aruna’s eyes widened momentarily before she quickly masked her reaction. “He knows?”

Babu nodded as if she could see him. “Yeah. He was furious. Called me all sorts of things… said I was sick, that I’ve lost my mind.”

Aruna feigned concern. “What are you going to do now?”

“I don’t know,” Babu admitted, rubbing his forehead. “I can’t go home. Amma’s done with me.”

Aruna’s voice softened, laced with just the right amount of sympathy. “Listen to me, Babu. Go to a friend’s place for now. Just stay out of sight. Let me handle Amma.”

Babu hesitated before nodding. “Alright.”

“Don’t worry,” Aruna reassured him. “I’ll fix everything.”

As Babu hung up, Aruna lowered the phone, a slow smile creeping across her face. Perfect.

Purushotham had always been the biggest threat—the one person who could have defused the situation, who could have convinced Sunandha to take Babu back.

But now, Purushotham was out of the picture.

And Babu? He is completely under her control.

The next day, Sunandha sat on the living room sofa, her face pale, her hands trembling slightly as she clutched her phone. One by one, she called the relatives, her voice steady but heavy with disappointment.

"The engagement is canceled," she informed them, swallowing the lump in her throat. "Babu doesn’t want to go through with it."

Each call was met with shock, disappointment, and questions she had no energy to answer. The whispers would spread fast, she knew. The humiliation was inevitable.

Just as she hung up from the last call, there was a knock at the door. Sunandha turned, already feeling a sense of dread.

Srinu stepped inside, his usual cheerful demeanor absent. His eyes scanned her face, sensing something was terribly wrong. "Madam…" he began hesitantly.

Sunandha exhaled, forcing herself to meet his gaze. "Srinu… I’m sorry," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "The engagement is canceled. Babu doesn’t want to marry Gita."

Srinu froze. His lips parted slightly, but no words came out. He blinked, as if trying to process what he had just heard. His hands, which had been resting at his sides, curled into fists.

For a moment, there was silence. Then, slowly, his eyes glistened. A single tear escaped, rolling down his cheek.

He swallowed hard, nodding stiffly. "I… I understand, Madam." His voice was strained, thick with emotion.

Sunandha wanted to say something—anything—to ease his pain. But what could she say? Nothing would change the truth.

Without another word, Srinu turned and walked out, his steps heavy, his heart heavier.

Continued in the next part….​

 

[donga0092019]

Chapter 15 part 2

Next day, Sunandha sat motionless in the quarters, staring blankly ahead. The day that was meant to be filled with joy had instead unraveled into something she could barely process. The humiliation of calling off Babu’s engagement, the whispers of relatives, and the weight of his accusations still clung to her like a shadow. She even asked Rani to leave as soon as she finished her chores, wanting some quiet time.

Moments later, the doorbell rang echoing through the quiet quarters, breaking the suffocating silence.

Sunanda sighed and got up to answer it. When she opened the door, she was surprised to see Mr. Anand standing there, dressed in his usual crisp white shirt and neatly pressed trousers. His expression was serious, his eyes scanning her face as if searching for answers.

"Anand garu," Sunanda said, stepping aside to let him in. "Please, come in."

As Anand walked inside, his eyes immediately landed on Aruna, who was casually seated on the sofa, flipping through a magazine. Aruna remained silent, offering him a polite but nervous smile. He had known Aruna from the past, but he hadn’t expected to find her here, settled comfortably in Sunanda’s home.

His expression changed—confusion, then surprise, and finally, a hint of disapproval.

He turned to Sunanda. "What is Aruna doing here?"

Sunanda glanced at Aruna before responding. "She’s been living with us for the past two years since Narendra passed away."

Anand didn’t respond right away. He turned back to Sunanda. "Can we talk? Alone."

Sunanda hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Of course."

Aruna’s expression shifted abruptly. The casual confidence on her face drained away, replaced by a sudden, sharp tension. Her fingers, which had been lazily flipping through a magazine, now gripped its pages tightly.

Her mind raced. What if Anand tells Sunanda about Yedukondalu?

Two years ago, when she manipulated the situation to her advantage. She had implicated even Sunanda in the sexual harassment charges against Yedukondalu, twisting the narrative. Sunanda had no idea that her name had been dragged into it.

And Anand… he was the inquiry officer in that case.

Of course, he knew the truth. He had led the internal investigation, gathered statements, and reviewed the evidence. If he had come here now, looking serious and asking to talk to Sunanda alone, it could only mean one thing—he was planning to tell her everything.

Aruna’s breath hitched. If Sunanda found out that she had been falsely implicated in the case, it would destroy everything Aruna had built over the last two years.

She swallowed hard, forcing herself to think. Taking a deep breath, she quickly composed herself, but inside, she was panicking.

“I can’t let this happen.” she thought.

As Anand and Sunanda started walking toward Sunanda’s bedroom, Aruna felt the walls closing in. This was it. If Anand spoke to Sunanda in private, she had no control over what he might reveal.

Panic surged through her, but she masked it instantly.

In one swift motion, Aruna stood up from the sofa, her voice carrying a sudden warmth.

“Anand sir! I’m sorry, I didn’t recognize you at first.” She forced a bright smile onto her face. “You’ve changed a lot!”

Before Anand could respond, she stepped forward and hugged him. It was quick, almost natural—an act that would disarm him before he could react.

And as she leaned close, she lowered her voice, her words meant only for him.

“Before you tell Amma anything, just listen to me for five minutes.”

She pulled away, maintaining her pleasant expression as if nothing had happened. But her eyes locked onto Anand’s, filled with an unspoken urgency.

“Then you can do whatever you want to do.”

As the tension in the room thickened, Aruna quickly regained her composure. She turned to Sunanda with a playful yet firm tone, her voice carrying an air of casual hospitality.

“What is this, Amma? You’re not even offering our guest some tea or coffee?” She flashed a smile, masking the storm raging inside her.

Sunanda, still caught off guard by Anand’s sudden visit, hesitated for a moment. Before she could respond, Aruna turned to Anand, her tone light and insistent.

“Amma, please prepare some coffee for Anand sir.”

Anand, however, was in no mood for pleasantries. His gaze remained fixed on Sunanda as he said, “It’s okay. I just want to talk to you.”

But Aruna wasn’t about to let that happen just yet.

She stepped in smoothly, her voice carrying a subtle authority.

“First, have some coffee.” She smiled again, but there was an unmistakable firmness in her tone. “Then you can talk to Amma as much as you want.”

She met Anand’s gaze, silently daring him to push back. Every second she delayed his conversation with Sunanda was a small victory.

As Sunanda disappeared into the kitchen, Aruna wasted no time. She turned to Anand, her voice softer now, calculated yet urgent.

“Whatever happened seven years ago was a mistake. I realize that now.” She looked at him, her eyes filled with something resembling regret. “Two years ago, when my father passed away, Amma took me in. She cared for me. I have built a good life here.”

She took a step closer, lowering her voice as if pleading. “Please don’t ruin it for me by telling Amma everything.”

Anand’s expression hardened. He didn’t respond immediately, but Aruna could see the conflict in his eyes. He was thinking. That was a good sign.

But Aruna knew her life here alone wasn’t enough to persuade him. She needed to offer him something more—something irresistible.

She took a deep breath and played her final card.

“Anand, I know you love Amma.”

Anand’s gaze snapped to hers, and for a fleeting moment, she saw the flicker of truth in his eyes.

She pressed on. “If you let me have my life here, I will help you win hers.”

Anand remained silent, his jaw tightening.

“She is in a vulnerable position right now,” Aruna continued smoothly. “If I talk to her, I can help you. You can marry her.” She paused, then added with a knowing smirk, “I know you never married because you loved Amma.”

Anand clenched his fists, looking away. She had hit a nerve.
As Sunanda walked in, carrying a steaming cup of coffee, her face was calm, but her eyes held a quiet curiosity. She placed the cup on the table in front of Anand and then waited for him to finish it. As soon as he was done Sunandha said “Anand, you wanted to talk to me in private.” She gestured toward her bedroom. “Let’s go.”

Anand glanced briefly at Aruna before rising from his seat. He nodded silently and followed Sunanda into the bedroom.

For the next 30 minutes Aruna sat stiffly on the sofa, her fingers drumming lightly against the armrest. Every passing second felt like an eternity.

Her mind raced with possibilities. Was Anand telling her everything? Was he bringing up Yedukondalu? Was he warning Sunanda about her? Or was he using this opportunity to get close to her, just like she had suggested?

She bit her lip, trying to appear composed, but her body betrayed her—her foot tapped anxiously against the floor. She hated not being in control.

Finally, the door creaked open.

Anand stepped out, his face unreadable. He glanced at Aruna and gave a polite nod. “Goodbye, Aruna.”

And just like that, he was gone.

Aruna immediately turned to Sunanda, her curiosity burning through her facade of indifference.

“What did he say?” she asked, forcing a casual tone.

Sunanda exhaled as she sank into the chair, rubbing her temple as if she were tired.

“Nothing unusual,” she said, “He asked about the engagement—why it was canceled. Where Babu is now. If I was doing okay.”**

Aruna’s shoulders relaxed slightly, but Sunanda kept talking.

“He also said I was being too hard on Babu.” She sighed. “He thinks I should forgive him.”

Aruna’s jaw tightened.

“He told me that no matter how angry I am, I can’t live without Babu for too long. That I would regret push him away.”

She let out a soft chuckle, shaking her head. “He said it was for my own sake… not even for Babu’s, but for me.”

She looked at Aruna, her eyes searching. “Do you think he’s right?”

Aruna forced a gentle smile, but inside, she was seething.

So Anand didn’t expose her… but he had planted a seed in Sunanda’s mind.

A dangerous seed.

Aruna sighed and looked down, as if contemplating her words carefully. Then, in a soft voice, she said,

“I don’t know, Amma. Maybe… maybe it’s my fault to some extent.”

Sunanda frowned, confused. “Your fault? What are you talking about?”

Aruna hesitated for a moment before speaking again. “I mean, I always gave Babu whatever he wanted. All the pocket money, all the freedom to spend it however he wished… Maybe I spoiled him without realizing it.” She sighed again. “Maybe I made him believe that he didn’t have to take responsibility for himself.”

Sunanda’s face softened, but her voice remained firm.

“Aruna, don’t blame yourself for his actions.” She shook her head. “Babu is not a child anymore. He knew what he was doing.”

Aruna nodded. “You’re right, Amma. But… Anand does have a point. Sooner or later, you’ll have to forgive him.”

Sunanda’s eyes darkened for a moment, and she leaned back in her chair, her fingers tapping lightly against the armrest.

“Yes, eventually,” she admitted after a pause. “Just… not yet.”

She turned to Aruna and gave her a small, tired smile. “But don’t you ever think that this is your fault, Aruna. Babu made his choices. He has to face the consequences.”

Aruna gave a faint nod, but inside, her mind was racing. Sunanda had made up her mind.

She will forgive Babu… but not yet.

And that was all Aruna needed.

That evening, even though Sunanda had given her permission to take the rest of the day off, Rani still came to the quarters. She told herself it was just to check if everything was all right, but deep down, she knew she was worried about Sunanda Madam.

As she stepped inside, the house felt unusually quiet. Sunanda was sitting on the sofa, staring at nothing in particular, lost in thought. Aruna sat across her browsing through her phone. Rani Sat near Sunandha's feet Cutting Vegetables for the night dinner. The doorbell rang, breaking the silence. Sunanda looked up, startled, while Rani quickly got to her feet.

"I’ll check, madam," Rani said, making her way to the door.

She opened it just enough to see who was outside, then paused for a moment before closing it again and returning to Sunanda.

"Madam…," she said, “Someone named Ratna Kumar is here to see you.”

Sunandha barely acknowledged her. She simply gave a slight nod.

Ratna Kumar entered, hesitating for a moment before clearing his throat. “Madam,” he began carefully, “I need to speak with you about something important.”

Sunandha didn’t react.

Ratna Kumar sighed, shifting uncomfortably. “I must first apologize for the delay in bringing this to your attention. Two years ago, when Narendra Garu passed away, I had to leave for abroad to settle my daughter in university. By the time I returned, my mother fell ill, and I was caught up in taking care of her. That’s why it took me this long to meet you.”

He pulled out a folder and placed it on the table. “This is Narendra Garu’s will.”

He took a deep breath and began reading. “As per this will, the house in Guntur and six acres of agricultural land in Kakani are to be given to his first wife’s children—Aruna, Venu, and Vani. The Hyderabad house and three acres of land in Kazipet, though earned by Narendra Garu, were made possible with your support, and so they are given to you and Babu. However…” Ratna Kumar hesitated for a moment before continuing, “as long as you are alive, you have full control over the entire property. You have the right to make any changes, including writing anyone out of the will at your discretion.”

He looked up, waiting for a reaction. But Sunandha sat still, her face unreadable.

The silence stretched, heavy and thick, until Aruna finally spoke.

“Amma,” she said gently, stepping forward. “I know this isn’t the right time, and I hate to bring this up, but it’s important.”

Sunandha slowly turned her gaze toward Aruna.

“Venu wants to sell his share of the property,” Aruna continued carefully. “He wants to invest in his business. He applied for a legal heir certificate, and the process is pending.”

Ratna Kumar glanced at Sunandha, but her expression didn’t change.

“We didn’t know about the will, Amma,” Aruna added quickly. “We had no idea you had full control over the property. Please… don’t take any action against Venu. It’s an honest mistake.”

The room fell into silence again. Sunandha exhaled slowly, but her face remained unreadable.

Sunandha looked at Aruna for a long moment, her eyes filled with exhaustion and resignation. Then, with a deep breath, she spoke.

“It’s alright, Aruna,” she said, her voice steady but heavy. “Venu and Vani are also my children, even if they don’t see me as their mother.”

Aruna remained silent, watching her carefully.

Sunandha continued, “Your father wanted them to have their share, and I won’t stand in the way of that. I’ll make sure Venu gets what was intended for him.”

She then turned toward Ratna Kumar, her expression resolute. “Prepare the necessary documentation—not just for Venu’s share, but for mine as well.”

Ratna Kumar frowned slightly. “Madam… your share?”

“Yes,” Sunandha confirmed. “I want to transfer my share, as well as Babu’s, to Aruna, Venu, and Vani. They can have everything.”

A stunned silence filled the room. Aruna’s fingers tightened slightly, but she quickly masked her reaction.

Ratna Kumar hesitated. “Are you sure?”

“I am,” Sunandha said firmly. “If my presence in that will was meant to control them, then I want nothing to do with it. Let them have the properties. I don’t need them.”

Ratna Kumar nodded slowly, still processing her decision.

Sunandha sat back in her chair, as if the weight of the day had finally settled on her shoulders. “If that’s all,” she said, her voice quiet but unwavering, “you may both leave.”

Ratna Kumar gathered his documents, glancing briefly at Aruna, who forced a smile despite the turmoil in her mind. “Thank you, Amma,” she said, her voice carefully controlled.

She turned to leave, but as she stepped out of the room, her thoughts raced. This was unexpected—but not necessarily a setback. Sunandha’s emotions had made her impulsive, and impulsive decisions could be manipulated. Aruna just needed to play her next move carefully.

Aruna walked out of the room, maintaining a composed expression, but inside, her mind was reeling. This was more than she had planned for. She had expected Sunandha to agree to Venu’s request without resistance—but for her to give away her entire share, including Babu’s, was completely unexpected.

She had spent years carefully maneuvering her way to secure what she believed was rightfully hers, but she had never imagined that Sunandha would surrender so easily.

Why would she do this? Aruna thought, her fingers clenching into a fist. Guilt? Resentment? Or is this some kind of trick?

For the first time, Aruna felt a flicker of unease. Sunandha had always been strong-willed, never one to back down easily. This sudden decision—without argument, without hesitation—didn’t sit right with her.

As she reached the corridor, she forced herself to take a deep breath. No, this isn’t a problem—it’s an opportunity. She had won more than she had ever hoped for. Now, she just needed to make sure nothing changed before the papers were signed.

Aruna had expected Sunandha’s anger toward Babu to cloud her judgment, perhaps even push her into giving away what rightfully belonged to Aruna, Venu, and Vani. But she had never anticipated this. Sunandha wasn’t just giving away Narendra’s share—she was surrendering her own property and Babu’s as well.

Aruna kept her expression neutral, but inside, she was stunned. What is she thinking? This was too easy. Sunandha had spent years protecting Babu, shaping his future, ensuring he had everything. Yet now, with just one confrontation, she was willing to strip him of his inheritance entirely?

Is it Punishment? An overreaction ? Or something else?

For a moment, doubt crept in. Had she pushed too hard? Had she miscalculated? But as quickly as the uncertainty came, she suppressed it. No. It doesn’t matter why she’s doing it. What matters is that she is.

Now, all she had to do was make sure nothing changed before the documents were signed.



Continued in the next part……​