I brought her unconscious form back to my penthouse in Hungary. She was in no condition to travel further. I ordered my men to double the security around the place and instructed Rahat to return to India to manage business matters.
Carefully, I laid her down on my bed, my chest tightening as I noticed the bruises marring her soft skin–her lip, her wrists, her ankles. My fists clenched in rage. How dare that bastard hurt her?
I grabbed a wet napkin, gently wiping the blood off her lips before sprinkling water over her face. "Wake up, Hazel," I muttered under my breath.
Finally, she stirred, her lashes fluttering open.
"Did I faint?" she asked softly, her hand reaching for her head.
"Yeah, but you're safe now," I reassured her.
She surprised me by replying calmly, "I wasn’t worried."
My brows furrowed. "What?"
"I knew... you'd come for me," she said, her voice steady, filled with quiet certainty.
A strange warmth coursed through me. "Are you saying you trust me, Hazel?" I asked, my voice softer than usual.
She hesitated briefly. "Whether it's trust or not... I don’t know," she said, her gaze distant. "But the moment I entered your world, I had no one else."
"Yes. You only have me. No one else should ever dare lay a finger on you. You belong to me, and me alone," I said, my voice cold and possessive as my fingers played with her loose hair.
I noticed her shiver at my chilling tone, so I softened my approach, quickly switching my tone. "Are you hungry? A shower will help you feel better and then eat something " I suggested.
"Yeah," she muttered, getting up. But as soon as she took a step, I saw her falling. Instinctively, I reached out and caught her before she could touch the ground.
"Hey... are you okay?" I asked, concern evident in my voice.
"Yeah, but I feel dizzy," she admitted, leaning slightly into my hold.
"Then forget the shower for now. Just change into something comfortable and eat first," I offered, guiding her gently.
I disappeared into the walk-in closet and pulled out one of my t-shirts for her. She’s worn my clothes plenty of times before, and I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction every time.
'Mine,' the word echoed in my mind as I handed her the shirt, knowing that nothing else made me feel more possessive than seeing her in my clothes.
I waited outside the bathroom door while she was freshening up. When she stepped out, she was tugging down the oversized t-shirt that barely reached her mid thighs.
"It's fine, Hazel," I teased, my gaze trailing down her legs. "I've already seen those long legs of yours. No need to pull it down. Come here and eat."
She might be a petite 5'3" compared to my 6'2" frame, but those toned legs were the sexiest I'd ever laid eyes on–and I was the only one lucky enough to enjoy the view.
Her cheeks flushed briefly at my comment, but she came over and sat on the bed. As she picked at her food, she sighed, "I ruined that beautiful dress."
"Do you think I care about that?" I cupped her face gently, forcing her to meet my eyes. "You could ruin a hundred dresses if you want. When that bastard took you, do you know how I felt? I wanted to turn the world upside down to get you back."
Her eyes blinked nervously, and she whispered, "You care too much for your enemy’s daughter, Sarfaraaz. You shouldn’t do this."
I set the food tray aside and, in one swift motion, pulled her onto my lap. Her breath hitched as I held her close, my gaze locking with hers.
"Do you still think I’m after revenge?" I asked, my voice low and intense. "I’ve found a new purpose, Édesem. Can’t you see it?"
I could feel her heart race beneath my touch, her cheeks flushing deeper for me. She’s like a drug I can’t get enough of, and I didn’t mind being addicted to her forever.
______________________
My stupid heart! It just needs the smallest reason to dance in my chest, especially when he touches me.
Why does it forget how my life took a complete 360° turn because of him? And why do my cheeks burn at his comments?
What is happening to me?
My thoughts broke when I felt his lips gently press against my forehead.
"Stop overthinking, Hazel. Finish your food," he said, placing me gently down on the bed before walking out of the room.
After finishing my meal, exhaustion took over. My eyes grew heavy, and I placed the tray on the side table before lying down.
A few minutes later, I felt something cold on my ankle. When I opened my eyes and looked down, I saw Sarfaraaz applying something to my bruise.
"What are you doing?" I asked.
"Relax. It’s just an ointment. It’ll soothe the irritation," he replied softly.
This man!
Too tired to argue, I let him continue. After he finished with my ankle, he applied it to my wrist as well.
When he was done, I felt him slipping into the bed under the blanket.
With heavy eyes, I asked, "You’re sleeping here?"
"Yeah, Hazel. Let me rest here for a while. Even your monster gets tired," he said, pulling me closer.
Without thinking, I found myself snuggling into him. His embrace wasn’t cold like the front he showed the world. It was warm and comforting.
"Thanks for saving me, Rayan," I murmured against his chest.
"I didn’t do it for you," he said, patting my head gently. "I did it for myself, Hazel."
Before I could think for giving him a reply sleep took me over.
__________________________
The next day, they were preparing to leave the penthouse and return home.
"So, this is another country? Oh my God! I’ve never traveled abroad. Thanks to the kidnapper, I’m finally outside the country," Tania exclaimed with a hint of sarcasm.
Before she could say more, Sarfaraaz suddenly pinned her against the wall, his eyes darkening with an intensity that made her heart race. Leaning in closer, he spoke in a low, dangerous voice. "Do you think this is funny, Hazel? Don’t you dare express gratitude to that bastard." His fury crackled in the air, leaving her momentarily speechless.
Tania gulped, feeling the tension rise. "Hey... I didn’t mean it like that," she quickly corrected herself. "I just meant I’ve never left the country before, so it’s my first time being abroad. Even though I’m turning 22 in a few days, my family never let me travel. But I love the idea of exploring," she finished with a pout.
His intense expression eased at her words, and his eyes softened. "Do you want to explore the city?"
Tania’s eyes lit up instantly, her hazel orbs gleaming with excitement. "I would love to!"
"Alright then, get ready. I need to make a few calls," he said, releasing her from the wall and stepping out of the room, leaving her with a smile lingering on her lips.
____________________
One hour later
They found themselves on Margaret Island, a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. The air was fresh, filled with the scent of blooming flowers, and the sound of laughter echoed around them. Tania marveled at the picturesque surroundings, her heart swelling with joy.
Sarfaraaz walked beside her, his eyes sharp and alert for any sign of danger. Despite the calm atmosphere, his security team was strategically positioned in camouflage, ever watchful.
As they strolled along the winding paths, she couldn't help but feel a sense of freedom and adventure. "This place is amazing, Rayan! I can't believe I finally got to see something like this," she exclaimed, twirling around to take it all in.
Seeing her so carefree made Sarfaraaz's heart skip a beat. When she called him "Rayan," it deepened the connection he felt with her.
"Don’t wander too much. Wait for me," he said, his tone grumpy and stoic, but inside, he cherished this playful side of her. Her smile was soothing, a balm that made him want to forget everything and keep her in his embrace forever.
"Okay, Mr. Dark. I'll be with you," she teased, taking his hand as they walked. But as realization dawned on her, she quickly pulled away. Sarfaraaz, however, wasn't ready to let go; he firmly took her hand in his again.
"Keep it this way. I like it," he said, a hint of warmth breaking through his usually cold demeanor.
Tania's eyes widened for a second but she nodded, "Okay" . . .
As the sun dipped below the horizon, they strolled along the shore, the orange and pink hues painting the sky. She watched the sun's descent with a look of pure wonder. "It's beautiful," she murmured, mesmerized, her hazel eyes shimmering gold in the fading light.
"No doubt," Sarfaraaz replied, his voice almost breathless, his gaze locked on her instead of the sunset. The warmth of the moment softened the sharp edges of his usually cold demeanor. His dark brown eyes drank in her beauty, every inch of her captivating him.
The intensity of his stare made her heart skip a beat. She turned toward him, feeling vulnerable under his gaze. A blush crept up her cheeks as her nerves betrayed her, and she bit her lip without realizing it.
"You never give me a chance to resist myself around you, Hazel," he murmured, stepping closer until their fingers almost brushed. His words lingered between them, a soft, melodic whisper filled with something more than desire. "What am I supposed to do with you?"
Her name on his lips, soft as a whisper, sent a shiver down her spine. "Rayan..." she began, her voice barely audible, shaky from the emotions she tried to contain. But before she could continue, he bridged the final gap between them.
His lips found hers in a gentle kiss, one that wasn't meant to dominate but to feel....to savor. The world around them seemed to fade as their closeness deepened.
His hand rose to cup her face, his touch warm and careful, fingers tracing the curve of her jaw as if memorizing every detail. Her heart raced in her chest, not from fear or uncertainty, but from something more deep...something pure.
The kiss was tender, slow, as if time itself had stretched just for them, letting them exist in this perfect moment. When they finally pulled apart, their foreheads rested against each other, their breaths mingling in the cooling evening air.
Her chest rose and fell rapidly, her lips still tingling from the contact, while he exhaled softly, his gaze dropping to her lips as if drawn to them again.
"Only you can undo me, Hazel," he whispered, his voice a mix of adoration and disbelief. "Completely."
For a moment, they stood there, wrapped in the sweetness of the shared silence, their hands slowly intertwining as the last light of the day kissed the ocean goodbye.
__________________________
Next day
Tania felt a strange sense of peace as they reached home......a silent connection that had never been there before. It was as though the air between them had shifted. For the first time, she realized he was becoming someone she couldn’t easily push away from her heart.
This realization was overwhelming. She wasn’t used to such emotions, especially for someone like him. All her life, Tania had focused on her studies, her dream of becoming a doctor, and helping others through charity. Romance or feelings like this had never crossed her mind–especially not for a man who had shattered her life.
Yet, despite her mind screaming that this was wrong, her heart whispered a different story. There was an undeniable connection she felt toward Sarfaraaz and she knew it was not just a physical attraction , it was one that confused and terrified her, but also... drew her in.
Whether he was Rayan, Sarfaraaz, or Raaz, she couldn’t deny that he was becoming more than just a dark figure in her life. He was becoming a presence that stirred emotions she never thought she would feel.
____________________________
In Sarfaraaz Secret House
The atmosphere was thick with tension as Rahat handed over the tablet.
"Bro, the footage we retrieved from Tani... Sister-in-law's phone shows the side face of a man. It's not entirely clear, but look at this..." Rahat pointed at the screen. "This man has a tattoo on his neck."
Sarfaraaz’s eyes narrowed as he observed the footage. There it was–a scorpion tattoo etched into the man's skin.
A scorpion...
The image tugged at a distant memory. He had heard of this before, a long long time ago, from his father’s mouth.
"The Scorpion Gang... they're meddling with the government’s project."
It clicked. Could the accident take away the life of his sister and his brother in law being somehow connected to this gang?
Could it somehow connect to the past?
Sarfaraaz’s mind raced with possibilities, the pieces falling into place.
"Find out everything about this tattoo," he ordered, his voice ice-cold. "I want details. No matter what it takes."
No matter what he will find the culprit who took away his princess –his sister from him. And when he does, he will give the bastard the most painful death.
__________________________________
Somewhere
"You fucking idiots...how can Marco took her when you were supposed to kill her that day?" the man roared with fury.
"We....we were waiting for the fireworks to starts, Sir " his servant said bowing his head.
"Get out from here before my gun start speaking instead of me" he said in a ice cold voice.
The men left the room with no hesitation, they definitely didn’t want to risk their life.
"Looks like I need to invite someone who can tackle Sarfaraaz in his own way" he smiled darkly.
_______________________________
Sarfaraaz!
The man I’ve wanted since my childhood has someone in his life. Someone so plain, with no taste in fashion, a lamb.
Most importantly, she’s the daughter of the man who caused Sarfaraaz so much pain. But the look I’ve seen in his eyes for her shattered me into pieces.
He’s never looked at me like that.
I used to go to Hungary every winter vacation just to see him. He was always grumpy, cold, and taciturn, but I thought that was just his nature.
But the moment she entered his life, he started changing. I saw him carrying her in his arms, and in his eyes, I saw something I’d never seen before –care.
He never cared for me like that.
Three days ago, when Tania was kidnapped, his reaction was terrifying and heartbreaking at the same time. He looked like he’d lost the most precious thing in his life.
What did I lack? If he showed me even 1% of that attention, I’d have given everything to him–even my life!
I sat at the bar, swirling my drink, trying to forget the man who didn’t even care I existed. The alcohol burned as it went down my throat, but it did nothing to ease the fire in my heart.
I hate Tania with every fiber of my being... for taking Sarfaraaz away from me.
Every time I see her, I want to strangle her.
"Give me more alcohol," I demanded, slamming the empty glass onto the table.
"Nope, she’s not getting any more," came a voice from behind.
I turned to see Rahat standing there, as imposing as ever. Why was he here?
"I’m paying, so you’re obliged to listen to my every word," I snapped at the bartender, my voice sharp despite my drunken haze.
"Nope, I’m paying to make sure you don’t get another drink," Rahat countered, sliding a bundle of cash to the bartender.
"Rahat, stop interfering! Let me be in peace!" I retorted, my frustration bubbling over.
"This isn’t peace, Shanaya. Go home," he sighed.
"My peace is here... in this drink, Rahat. Just leave me alone," I whined, irritated.
"You’re already drunk. Come on, I’m taking you home," he said, grabbing my wrist.
"Stop. People are watching," I tried to reason with him.
He smirked, already pulling me along.
"Since when do you care about what people think, Sana?"
________________________
She’s wasting herself in this bar, again. When will she realize her worth?
I can't stand to see her like this... not anymore. Her defiance grates on me, and part of me wants to shake sense into her. Punish her for it.
Despite my warnings, she keeps coming back here. Does she even realize how those men were leering at her?
"Let me pay the bill at least," she slurred behind me, still trying to resist as her hand remained in my grip.
"I’ve already paid. You’re going home," I said firmly.
"I don’t want to..." her voice faltered, her vulnerability breaking through the facade. "I don’t want to be alone."
We had reached my car, and I turned to look at her. She was leaning against it, her chest rising and falling with each breath, and there were tears at the corners of her eyes.
The woman who could have any man at her mercy was crying over someone she could never have–my best friend, a married man.
I knew Sarfaraaz had already softened for his wife, and I couldn't be happier for him. But Shanaya…
Seeing her like this shattered me. I’ve loved this woman from the moment I laid eyes on her, seven years ago when she was just 18.
The simplicity of her features had given way to a city-girl aura, but I knew deep down, her heart was still pure. Despite everything, she was still her.
Heaving a sigh, I tapped her shoulder gently. "Hey, Sana. Get inside the car."
Her eyes fluttered open, her voice soft and surprised. "You called me Sana…”
Oops. She heard that.
"Yeah," I admitted, "I know your real name. The one your grandmother gave you."
She nodded, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "No one calls me that... not since she passed."
I helped her stand up straight, my hand resting on her shoulder as I tried to comfort her. "It’s okay. I can call you that, if you want.
She looked up at me, her eyes filled with confusion and sadness. "Why are you always so nice to me? Unlike Sarfaraaz?"
I couldn’t answer. I didn’t know what to say. What was the point in telling her the truth? That I’ve been in love with her for years? No. All I could do was be there for her, a silent protector.
"You know I can’t forget him, no matter how hard I try," she whispered, tears slipping down her cheeks. "Sometimes I hate myself for it. It hurts so much."
God, I couldn’t stand it. Seeing her cry for another man....it tore me apart.
I pulled the car over to the side of the road, unable to keep driving like this. I cupped her face, wiping her tears away with my thumbs. "Don’t cry… Please, Sana. Just tell me what I can do to make it better."
Her eyes flickered with something unreadable as she spoke. "Help me forget him. Even if it’s just for tonight."
My heartbeat quickened, and for a moment, I was lost. But I couldn’t. I shouldn’t.
"You’re drunk, Sana."
"I’m more sane than you think," she said, her voice steady despite her tears. "If you really want to help me, just do it. Or leave me here, and I’ll find someone else."
Before she could finish, something snapped inside me. Without thinking, I crashed my lips onto hers. I knew I would regret it, but for now, being useful to her was all that mattered. And that's enough for me.
____________________________
Tania heard the best news she could imagine from one of her professors.
Her expulsion order had been lifted, and she could return to her classes the next day. Even better, they would reschedule her missed exams for a private sitting. Excitement surged through her, and without thinking, she nearly ran to Sarfaraaz's room.
Panting, she found him at his desk, working on his laptop. He immediately put it aside and rushed over, his eyes scanning her with concern. "Allah Allah, what happened, Hazel?" he asked, placing his hands on her shoulders.
"They lifted the expulsion order! Sir said I can attend college again tomorrow!" she beamed, her smile bright and full of life.
"Oww, is that so? That's great news," Sarfaraaz said, pretending to be surprised, though he couldn’t take his eyes off her radiant joy.
Little did Tania know, it was Sarfaraaz who had made this happen, using his influence and connections to lift the order.
______________________
Flashback
(Two Days Earlier)
Sarfaraaz sat in the office of the Vice Chancellor of Tania's medical college, exuding authority. "Bring me the list of disciplinary committee members," he commanded.
The Vice Chancellor looked at him curiously, uncertain of who the young yet domineering man was. "And who are you?" the VC asked.
"The new head of the trustee board of your college," Sarfaraaz replied in a deep, commanding tone.
Startled, the VC quickly handed over the file. Sarfaraaz didn’t even bother to open it. "I’m dismissing all of them. Form a new committee by the end of the week. They were biased in their judgment and expelled a student without giving her a fair chance. We can’t afford to let such corruption tarnish the college's reputation if this goes public."
He added, "And remove the expulsion order of Tania Shafiq Hussein by today."
The VC nodded quickly, "Yes, Sir. Thank you for addressing this."
"Make sure that the student– Tania isn’t mistreated because of this expulsion order, or I’ll personally ensure there are consequences," Sarfaraaz finished with a cold authority before walking out, leaving no room for argument.
Flashback End ___________________
Tania's eyes sparkled with hope. "So I can go back to college, right?"
Sarfaraaz’s expression remained firm. "Going to college means stepping outside, Hazel."
"Please, Rayan," she pleaded, her pride slipping away as she gave him puppy eyes. She needed this to chase her dreams.
His lips twitched into an internal smirk. "Fine, but on one condition. Every day before you go out, you have to say something to me in Hungarian," he teased.
"Hungarian? I don’t even know the language!" she exclaimed, confused.
He stepped closer, leaning into her ear with a low whisper, "I’ll teach you. Just say... Örökké a tiéd."
A smile crept over his face, imagining her saying "Forever yours" to him every day–because that’s exactly what she was to him: his forever.
"Örökké a tiéd? Just that?" she asked, surprised.
The sound of her speaking Hungarian made his heart race. She sounded so... Sexy.
It would be interesting to teach her some Hungarian slang or curses He thought.
"Yup. Don’t miss a day. And remember, Hazel," he pulled her close by the waist possessively , "you only belong to me. Never forget that."
"Okay. I'll remember it. I belong to you...only you" she said locking her hazel eyes with his dark drown orbs.
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