26-10-2024, 01:16 PM
Chapter 23: Setback or An Opportunity? : Part 2
"That's when Patode showed up and saved me from their clutches," Shipra finished, her voice trembling as she recounted the horrific event. "I still can't believe Alokk could do that to me. I was always good to him." Her word laced with disbelief and shock, as she struggled to process the betrayal. The memory of the incident seemed fresh, her emotions raw, and her body still felt the lingering weight of fear and disgust.
"Those fucking bastards!! Bloody molester!! We should report them to the security officer. I never thought that son of a bitch Alokk would stoop so low. We made a mistake befriending him," Namrata spat, her voice shaking with a mixture of anger and disbelief.
It was around 4 in the evening. The afternoon light filtered through the window, casting long shadows across the room. Shipra had just finished narrating the horrifying incident involving Alokk and his despicable friend. Namrata's face was flushed with rage, her fists clenched tightly at her sides. The air in the room felt thick with tension, a simmering storm of emotions as they all tried to process what had happened.
Shipra, lying on the bed, her body curled into a cocoon, looked almost fragile. Her head rested in Namrata's lap, the warmth of her friend's presence the only comfort she could find. Her eyes were wide and unblinking, staring off into the distance as if trying to detach herself from the reality of the situation. The disgust she felt seemed to seep into her bones, settling in her body like a weight she couldn't shake off. Her hands trembled slightly, fingers curling into the bedsheet beneath her.
"No, don't involve the security officer, Namrata," Shipra finally whispered, her voice barely audible, still shaky. "I don’t want to make this any bigger than it already is."
Namrata's eyes flashed with disbelief. "What? How can you say that, Shipra? Those animals don’t deserve to get away with this. They’ll think they can keep doing this to others! We have to do something."
Shipra squeezed her eyes shut, shaking her head. "I can't. I just… I don't want to go through all that. The questions, the investigations, the shame that’ll follow…and then what if Alok comes to know about it.........I just want it to be over."
Patode, sitting in a wooden chair by the bed, remained silent for a moment, his knuckles bruised and raw from the punishment he'd dealt. His usually calm demeanor was stretched thin, and though he spoke softly, the barely controlled fury in his voice was unmistakable. "Shipra ma'am is right," he said, flexing his fingers gingerly. "No point in dragging this out more than it needs to be."
He glanced up, his eyes meeting Namrata's with a steely resolve. "Beside, I’ve taken care of those motherfuckers for good. I made sure they'll not even dream of doing anything like that to anyone let alone even think about coming near to either of you again." His voice carried a dangerous edge, as though the violence he had unleashed was only the beginning if Alokk and his friend dared to step out of line again.
Namrata bit her lip, torn between wanting justice and knowing how much more trauma the security officer could bring for Shipra. She looked down at her friend, stroking her hair gently. Shipra's face was pale, her breathing still shallow. Her fear was palpable, like a shadow that hung over all of them, filling the room.
"Namrata, please go get some bandages and antiseptic. His hands are bruised," Shipra said softly, her voice filled with concern as she sat back on the bed. Her gaze remained on Patode, noticing the way his knuckles had swollen and split from the earlier fight.
"Right," Namrata responded, quickly heading out to find the first-aid kit, leaving the two of them alone in the room.
Shipra’s eyes met Patode’s, filled with gratitude. She struggled to find the right words. "Thank you, Patode. I don’t know what would have happened if you hadn’t shown up when you did," she said, her voice still shaky but laced with sincerity. Her mind was still reeling from the harrowing events, but the overwhelming relief of having been rescued by him washed over her. In that moment, she felt both safe and vulnerable, her emotions raw from the shock.
Patode shifted in his chair, offering Shipra a faint smile. "Don’t mention it, ma’am. Honestly, it was just luck. You accidentally took my phone after our little accident, and that’s what led me to follow you. I’m sorry I didn’t get to you sooner, though—I lost track of you both for a while, and it took me some time to find you," he said humbly, his tone apologetic.
Shipra looked at him with warmth, shaking her head gently. "Oh, Patode, you don’t need to apologize for that. I’m just so grateful you came when you did. I don’t know what would’ve happened without you," she replied, placing her hand on his arm in a gesture of gratitude and trust.
Patode’s expression softened at her touch. "Like I said before, Shipra," he began, his voice steady and reassuring, "trust me, and I won’t let anything happen to you while you’re posted here." His words carried a quiet but unwavering confidence, the kind that calmed her troubled heart.
Just then, Namrata returned, carrying the first-aid kit. She paused at the door, observing the brief, unspoken moment between Shipra and Patode before stepping inside. As she handed over the bandages and antiseptic, her curiosity got the better of her. "What exactly did you do, Patode?" she asked quietly, her tone a mixture of concern and curiosity.
Patode glanced at her, then at Shipra, his expression shifting from gentle to serious. "Let’s discuss it later in the evening, Right now, there’s something important I need to tell Shipra ma’am. I know it's not the right time but the news is linked with our investigation work."
Shipra straightened up slightly, her concern for Patode replaced with apprehension. "What is it, Patode?" she asked, sensing the gravity in his tone. "I’m fine now, with you two here. Please, just tell me."
Patode stood up, his face stern as he prepared to deliver the news. "Sanju was kidnapped by Saad’s men this morning," he said, his voice heavy.
Shipra’s eyes widened in shock, her heart dropping. "What?!" she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper. "Oh God, that poor girl. Patode, we need to file a report immediately. She could be in serious danger!"
Patode sighed, his expression hardening as he explained. "I’m already on it, ma’am. The village is in an uproar. The women from the Self-Help Groups have stormed the local security officer station, demanding action. This time, Saad has crossed the line. I’m talking with the local administration and pulling all the strings I can to get her free."
Shipra’s face paled, her emotions overwhelming her once more. The day had gone from bad to worse. First, Alokk’s betrayal, and now Sanju’s abduction. Her mind raced, guilt washing over her. "This is all my fault," she whispered, her voice breaking. "I must’ve led Alokk on, made him think I was... that kind of woman. And now, because of my investigation, Sanju is in danger. I brought all this upon us." Her eyes filled with tears again, her body trembling under the weight of the guilt and fear.
Namrata, who had been quietly bandaging Patode’s hands, looked up sharply. "Shipra, no. None of this is your fault. You can’t blame yourself for the actions of these vile men. In a society like this, where women are constantly pushed down, some men just wait for any chance to control or violate women—especially women who speak up or challenge their twisted rules. You didn’t lead anyone on. You didn’t ask for this."
Patode nodded in agreement, his expression softening. "Namrata’s right, ma’am. Don’t think for a second that any of this is on you. These men don’t need a reason to act like predators. You did nothing wrong, and neither did Sanju. What’s happening to her is because of that bastard Saad, not because of your work. And I swear, I won’t rest until I get her back safely."
Shipra wiped her eyes, trying to steady her breathing. Though she knew they were right, the guilt gnawed at her insides, making it hard to shake off the feeling of responsibility for the chaos surrounding them. "Please, Patode, help Sanju. If anything happens to her, I’ll always feel like it was my fault. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know," she said, her voice thick with concern.
Patode looked at her with firm reassurance. "You just relax, ma’am. You’ve already been through enough today. I promise, I’ll get Sanju back safely," he said, his voice calm but resolute. "I’ll take care of everything, and I’ll keep you updated. If you need me, I’m just a phone call away."
Shipra nodded, her body finally relaxing a little as she absorbed the weight of his words. "Thank you, Patode," she said softly, a glimmer of trust returning to her expression.
Patode gave a respectful nod before standing up. "Take care, Shipra," he said, then quietly left the room.
"So, Shipra, have you talked to Alok yet?" Namrata asked.
"No, not yet... I was planning to after work, but with everything that's happening, I just don’t have the courage. And now this incident with Alokk… Do you think I should tell him about it?" Shipra responded, her voice betraying a hint of concern.
"I wouldn’t advise that, Shipra. Don’t take this the wrong way, but as far as I know Alok, instead of supporting you, he might start blaming you for being careless. You two had a little argument yesterday, didn’t you? My suggestion is to talk to him, but avoid sharing things he won’t understand, which could lead to another fight," Namrata said, placing her hand gently on Shipra's.
"You're probably right, Namrata. I’m not really in the right state of mind to talk to him calmly anyway," Shipra admitted, appreciating Namrata’s perspective, knowing how Alok could react.
"It can wait. He’s not expecting a call before your office hours, right? For now, get some rest. A nap will help you relax. I’ll be here if you need anything," Namrata added in a firmer tone.
***********************************************
"Just let me go, bhau! I swear I'll kill that motherfucker. I'll tear him to pieces! How dare he lay a hand on my sister!" Bhiva's voice trembled with rage, his body straining against Patode’s iron grip as he pushed and struggled, desperate to break free. His face was flushed, his muscles tense with fury, and his eyes burned with a fierce, uncontrolled fire. It was as though every fiber of his being demanded retribution.
Patode tightened his hold, gritting his teeth as he tried to restrain Bhiva, who was close to slipping out of his grasp. "Calm down, Bhiva! You’re not thinking straight! Do you even know where to find her? You’re charging at this without a plan—what are you gonna do, go up against Saad Hasan on your own? That’s suicide!" Patode’s voice was calm, but firm, trying to inject reason into Bhiva’s enraged mind. "Don’t make rash, stupid decisions out of anger. You know I’m not sitting idle here. The moment I found out Sanju is your sister, I’ve been doing everything I can to get her back. We’ll find her, but not like this. Not with you going off on a blind rampage!"
But Bhiva wasn’t listening. His anger had been simmering since the moment he got back from Pune earlier that day, only to learn the devastating news: his cousin sister, Sanju, had been abducted by Saad Hasan. Sanju wasn’t his biological sister, but that didn’t matter. She was the only female in his extended family, and from the moment she was born, Bhiva had treated her like his own. Their bond ran deep, deeper than blood, and now the thought of her in the clutches of a monster like Saad was unbearable. It made his blood boil with a rage he couldn’t contain.
Bhiva was only 25, but his reputation was already known far and wide. He was hot-headed, impulsive, and quick-witted. Despite his temper, he was resourceful and sharp, the kind of guy who could get things done with a snap of his fingers. Patode had come to rely on him for exactly that reason—whenever something needed to be handled discreetly, Bhiva was his go-to man. Patode trusted him to take care of things that no one else could, and Bhiva always delivered. But when it came to women, Bhiva was a different beast entirely.
It was as though a switch flipped inside him. He became wild, perverted, and didn't cared for outcome. This unpredictable behaviour of his was the reason Patode had been keeping him at arm's length ever since Shipra and Namrata came to Ambruj. But now he needed him, and that to on this very exact day.
Earlier when Namrata questioned Patode if he had an ulterior motive, she had been right to suspect him. Patode had been going soft on Shipra not only because he wanted in on the investigation to clear his name but also to use this opportunity to get rid of Saad Hasan. For a long time, Patode had been working under Saad Hasan, forced to swallow his pride and play second fiddle to a man he despised. It wasn’t just that he hated Saad personally—though that was certainly part of it—it was the fact that Saad was the alpha male, the one calling all the shots. Patode’s ambition, his hunger for power, gnawed at him constantly. His animal instincts craved supremacy, to be the one at the top, to be the undisputed leader and with Shipra stumbling on the investigation work he found a way to kick start his plan to dethrone Saad hasan and occupy his position.
Patode’s plan was a masterclass in manipulation, driven by ambition, lust, and a deep-rooted hunger for power. Patode's first move was to carefully manipulated Saad Hasan into getting rid of Sanju, knowing full well what the fallout would be. Sanju, though not Bhiva's biological sister, was the closest thing to a sister he had. Patode understood Bhiva’s hot-headed, impulsive nature and knew that, once he heard of Sanju’s abduction, he would be consumed by rage.
This reaction was exactly what Patode had been counting on from the beginning. He needed Bhiva’s blind fury to eliminate Saad Hasan for him. Patode knew that Bhiva wouldn’t rest until he had killed Saad, and Patode was perfectly content to let him do the dirty work. Patode didn’t even need to intervene directly. All he had to do was create the perfect circumstances, providing just the right opportunity for Bhiva to confront Saad and kill him in cold blood. Once Bhiva’s revenge was complete, Patode would be free to swoop in and seize power.
But that was just the beginning of Patode’s grand plan.
Once Saad was out of the picture, Patode’s next move would be to manipulate the investigation led by Shipra into a narrative that would pin all of the illegal activities in the Self-Help Group (SHG) operations, all the financial fraud directly on Saad. Patode’s goal was to make it appear as though Saad had been the mastermind behind every shady deal and corrupt scheme, assisted by a few minor players, while Patode himself came out squeaky clean.
With Saad gone and the investigation “wrapped up,” Patode would be in the clear, free from any suspicion or blame. Shipra’s investigation would conveniently close with Saad taking the fall for everything, and Patode would be able to rise to power taking his place, unchallenged and unscathed. This would also give him all the freedom he wanted with Shipra. He would then seduce her into her personal slut just like Namrata. In his mind, both women would fall under his control, serving him in whatever way he pleased.
And luck seemed to be on his side. The incident with Shipra earlier in the day had unexpectedly cast him in the role of her hero, and he could feel the growing warmth in her eyes in the way she looked at him. There was a new spark between them, a subtle shift that hadn’t been there before, and he knew he wouldn’t miss the chance to capitalize on it.
And for Sanju and Bhiva, they were nothing more than collateral damage in his grand scheme for Patode—mere nuissance to be eliminated.
"Just calm down, Bhiva. You’ll get your chance, I promise. But right now, we have to make sure Sanju is safe. Do you understand? Or do you want her dead?" Patode’s voice was firm, his eyes locking onto Bhiva’s in a final attempt to rein in his fury.
Bhiva froze, his breathing heavy as the weight of Patode’s words sank in. As much as his thirst for revenge burned inside him, he knew that Sanju’s safety had to come first. His clenched fists loosened, though the anger still simmered beneath the surface. "What do we do then?" he asked, his voice shaky, barely able to contain the vengeance that threatened to spill over.
"Listen closely," Patode said, his tone now calm but commanding. "Here’s what we’re going to do..."
***********************************************
"You're taking this way too seriously, Alok. You don’t need to go to such lengths over a baseless doubt that Namrata planted in your head," Rahul tried to reason, his tone calm but concerned.
"Make the call, Rahul," Alok insisted, after a few moments of hesitation. "I won’t be at peace until I’m sure Namrata was just trying to get under my skin and nothing more."
Ever since his conversation with Namrata, where she hinted at Shipra having a fling with someone, Alok had been on edge. His mind, already poisoned by Chetan’s suspicions, couldn’t shake off Namrata’s insinuations. Desperate to settle his growing anxiety, he’d invited Rahul over for drinks, hoping his friend would help get to the bottom of it. Alok wanted Rahul to call Namrata and fish for anything that could confirm she was simply messing with him.
"Are you sure about this, Alok? Wouldn’t it be better to just talk to Shipra directly?" Rahul asked, eyeing his friend with a raised brow.
"No, man," Alok shook his head. "If Namrata’s just playing games, which I’m almost certain she is, asking Shipra directly will just create unnecessary tension between us. We’ve already had a fight recently, and I don’t want to make things worse."
Rahul sighed, sensing Alok’s determination. "Alright, if that’s what you want." He reluctantly pulled out his phone and dialed Namrata.
"Well, well, Rahul," Namrata’s voice came through the other end, dripping with sarcasm. "I didn’t think you’d ever bother calling me again. What happened? Miss me already, or did your new girlfriend dump you too?"
"Hello, Namrata," Rahul replied coolly, unfazed by her biting tone. "It’s nice to see you’ve become even more insufferable. And no, I haven’t been dumped—because Neha isn’t my girlfriend. And no, I haven’t missed you either. I’m calling because I found some of your stuff, and I wanted to know if you want it back, or should I donate it."
Namrata chuckled, clearly entertained. "Oh, come on, Rahul. You don’t need excuses to talk to me. There’s no shame in missing your ex, especially one as stunning and skilled as me—in and out of bed."
"Right, with your ‘exceptional’ talent for manipulation too," Rahul retorted, keeping his tone sharp. "Speaking of which, I hope you’re not manipulating Shipra this time around with your ultra modern philosophy on living an adventurous life. I heard you two are staying together in some village. And before you ask—no, I’m not stalking you. I saw it in one of Shipra’s Facebook posts, that’s how I know you’re tagging along with her."
Rahul casually dropped Shipra’s name into the conversation, trying to bait Namrata into revealing more. Though he kept his voice nonchalant, his real goal was to extract some information—anything—that would help put Alok’s mind at ease.
"What you're calling manipulation is actually helping, Rahul. But of course, you and your male ego wouldn't understand that," Namrata snapped, her tone cold. "I don’t need my stuff back. You can donate it or do whatever you want with it. Is that all?" She was clearly trying to shut down the conversation, eager to move on.
"Call it whatever you want, Namrata, but leave that innocent woman out of it. Shipra is happy in her marriage with a nice man. She doesn’t need your over-the-top modern ‘femininity’ to lead a satisfied life." Rahul's words were calculated, knowing full well that Shipra had her own reservations about Alok. He wanted to strike a nerve, hoping Namrata would let something slip.
There was a brief pause before Namrata shot back, her voice laced with contempt. "Yeah, what a nice man she has. A man who dumps all his family responsibilities on her and sends her off to this godforsaken village to face hardships he couldn’t even handle himself when he was in a job. A man who expects her to climb the career ladder, all while he chases his own dreams and ambitions, crushing hers in the process."
Rahul stayed silent, sensing she was about to say something critical.
"And don’t even get me started on how satisfied Shipra is in that marriage," Namrata continued, her voice rising with frustration. "Because she’s not—neither mentally, nor physically. She’s miserable, Rahul, and if I’m helping her get a taste of something she’s been missing for so long—something she’s been desperately craving—then that’s not manipulation. That’s what friends do."
There was a sudden silence on the other end, as if Namrata realized she had said too much. Her earlier bravado crumbled, and her tone shifted. "Don't call me again, Rahul. We’re done... goodbye," she said, her voice now low and composed, before abruptly ending the call.
"Wait—Namrata, hold on... what did you mean by that?" Rahul tried to catch her before she hung up, his heart racing as he sensed there was more she hadn’t revealed. But it was too late. The line had already gone dead.
Rahul sat back, his mind spinning. Namrata had all but confirmed what Alok feared—that Shipra was struggling, and perhaps there was more going on beneath the surface of their marriage than either of them had realized.
"I’m sorry, man, but it looks like Namrata is definitely up to something. It’s time you had a serious conversation with Shipra and cleared things up," Rahul advised, watching as Alok sat silently, lost in thought.
"Yeah, you’re right," Alok finally replied, though his mind was now racing with all the indecent possibilities behind Namrata’s words.
"It’s probably nothing, Alok," Rahul said, trying to reassure him. "Shipra’s a smart woman. I’m sure she can handle Namrata and her twisted ideas. But since they’re together, I’d suggest keeping in touch with Shipra regularly. If she can’t come back because of work, maybe you should take some time off and visit her yourself."
"Yeah... I’ll do that," Alok mumbled, still deep in thought. "Thanks for your help, man. Sorry for dragging you into all this."
"Don’t worry about it," Rahul said, giving Alok a firm handshake before getting up to leave. "You know where to find me if you need anything."
Alok nodded, though his thoughts were already far away, swirling with doubt and uncertainty as he watched Rahul walk out the door.
***********************************************
"Hey, any news from Patode about Sanju?" Shipra asked, worry evident in her voice as she stepped into Namrata's room.
Namrata looked up, offering a reassuring smile. "Oh, you're awake. Are you feeling better now? Patode called—he’s handled the situation. Sanju isn’t free yet, but he has ensured that she won’t be harmed. He’s on his way here as we speak."
Shipra sighed, visibly relieved as she sank onto the bed beside Namrata. "Yeah, I feel much better now, especially knowing Sanju’s safe."
"Good," Namrata replied, pausing thoughtfully before continuing. "You know, Shipra, Patode isn’t just a womanizer. Sure, he may have a pervert mind and a bit of a wild streak when it comes to women, but he’s also dependable. He’s the kind of man who not only knows how to please women but can actually care for them when it counts." She said this with a subtle edge, her words intentionally contrasting Patode’s reliability with her frustrations about Alok.
Shipra noticed the tone and gave Namrata a questioning look, sensing there was more behind her words. Namrata’s earlier conversation with Rahul had clearly left her irritated, and the hint of disapproval in her voice toward Alok wasn’t lost on Shipra.
"Yes, what he’s done today for both me and Sanju is truly commendable," Shipra agreed, nodding thoughtfully. "Maybe I misjudged him. He’s definitely not like Viresh." Patode’s actions today had begun to shift her view of him—from a man she’d written off as just another pleasure-seeker to someone capable of genuine support.
"And he’s not like Alok either," Namrata added pointedly, letting her frustration show. "After all, it’s because of Alok’s choices that you’re dealing with all these challenges now."
Shipra stayed silent, not refuting Namrata’s criticism of Alok. As devoted as she was to her husband, she couldn’t ignore the doubts that had quietly lingered in the back of her mind for long. Alok’s decision to quit his stable job and prepare for the civil services felt like an impulsive choice, one made without fully considering the impact on their family. It had left her shouldering the burden of financial responsibilities—something she’d accepted without a any trouble initially, hoping it was a temporary sacrifice for a greater good. Yet, with each passing day, the strain had only grown, and today’s horrifying incident had pushed her limits.
She thought bitterly about how, had Alok been more considerate of their future and instead of his aspirations, she might not be here in this remote village, facing dangers and obstacles she was not prepared for. He hadn’t involved her in his decision; he hadn’t thought about the hardships she would have to endure, the strain of being away from her child, or the growing distance it would wedge between them. The toll it was taking on their family—on their marriage—seemed to be the last thing on his mind.
As the questions circled in her mind, she couldn’t help but wonder: what if Alok had made different choices? What if he’d chosen to make sacrifices for their family’s stability, just as he expected her to do? What if he cared for her just like Patode did?
"Yeah, and ever since we arrived, he’s been nothing but helpful," Namrata said, a playful grin on her face. "Sure, he has a bit of an uncontrollable sex drive, but with a libido like his and beauty like ours around, who could really blame him?" she joked. "But seriously, Shipra, if you’re going to keep pushing forward with this investigation, keep Patode close. He’s someone you can rely on, and with him around, you’ll be safer. This place isn’t easy to navigate, and while we women are fully capable, having a strong, dependable man like Patode in situations like these is invaluable."
"You’re right, Namrata," Shipra nodded, her face serious. "After what happened to Sanju, it’s clear this isn’t something I can handle alone. It’s beyond just paperwork now."
"Exactly," Namrata replied, her tone softening. "But for now, don’t stress. Everything’s under control. Why don’t you call Alok before Patode gets back?"
"Good idea, I should check in," Shipra agreed, giving Namrata a thankful smile before heading to her room to call Alok.
Shipra returned to her room, replaying Namrata’s words in her mind as her own thoughts churned. She sighed, picked up her phone, and dialed Alok.
The phone rang a few times before he answered. “Hey, Alok. Sorry I couldn’t catch up with you yesterday. The new campaign work just started, and with the investigation, it’s been non-stop. How are you? And how’s Aarav?” Shipra asked, trying to sound cheerful.
There was a pause. “Yeah, I can tell you’ve been busy lately. We’re all fine,” he replied in a flat, measured tone. “Aarav misses you a lot; he was hoping you’d come by this weekend.”
She closed her eyes briefly, feeling a pang of guilt. “I miss you both so much. I’m really sorry, Alok—I won’t be able to make it this weekend. The bank campaign is taking up all my time, but I promise, next weekend, I’ll be there. You sound… a bit off. Is everything alright?”
“I’m fine. Just… caught up with a few things. You know how it is,” he replied, his tone a shade too nonchalant. “How about Namrata? Is she adjusting well?”
Shipra relaxed a little. “She’s doing well. Surprisingly, she’s taking to the village life better than I expected.”
A brief silence hung in the air before Alok broke it. “I am sure is, Shipra, did you know Rahul and Namrata broke up?”
Shipra hesitated, her mind flipping back to the confessions Namrata had shared on their journey to the village. “Yes… she told me about it. Apparently, Rahul cheated on her. She wanted to get away from him, and maybe from everything that reminded her of that relationship.”
“Oh, I see,” Alok said, but he sounded distracted, as if weighing whether to say something more. His voice grew tentative, and he took a breath, about to ask Shipra directly what Namrata’s true intentions were when he heard a faint voice on her end.
“Shipra ma’am, are you feeling better? I brought you some homemade special chicken soup. Just a taste, and you’ll forget all about that loser Alok,” Patode’s voice drifted through the door, interrupting the moment.
Shipra froze, and with a flustered glance at the door, hurried to wrap up the call. “Alok, I think my food’s here. I’ll call you back, okay? Love you. Take care,” she said quickly, hanging up before he could respond. She barely noticed if he’d heard her, let alone if he’d caught any part of Patode’s unfortunate comment. The last thing she wanted was for Alok to overhear anything remotely connected to her recent struggles or Sanju’s incident.
On the other end, Alok stared at his phone, stunned. He sat still, Shipra’s rushed goodbye still echoing in his mind, but it was Patode’s faint words that he fixated on, replaying them over and over. Though garbled, the pieces he caught, “Shipra… I brought…you'll forget loser Alok…” struck his heart like ice. It left a sour taste in his mouth and made him feel a deep knot in his stomach tighten.
What had he just overheard? He thought of Shipra’s distracted, evasive tone and the odd excuse about a food delivery. Whose voice was that—a man’s voice, and at this late hour? What was going on with Shipra? A series of questions started flooding his mind, each darker than the last. Was she hiding something from him? All his lingering doubts and suspicions, once fleeting and easily brushed aside, now began to solidify into a single, crushing thought—was Shipra having an affair?
End of Chapter 23: Setback or An Opportunity? : Part 2
"That's when Patode showed up and saved me from their clutches," Shipra finished, her voice trembling as she recounted the horrific event. "I still can't believe Alokk could do that to me. I was always good to him." Her word laced with disbelief and shock, as she struggled to process the betrayal. The memory of the incident seemed fresh, her emotions raw, and her body still felt the lingering weight of fear and disgust.
"Those fucking bastards!! Bloody molester!! We should report them to the security officer. I never thought that son of a bitch Alokk would stoop so low. We made a mistake befriending him," Namrata spat, her voice shaking with a mixture of anger and disbelief.
It was around 4 in the evening. The afternoon light filtered through the window, casting long shadows across the room. Shipra had just finished narrating the horrifying incident involving Alokk and his despicable friend. Namrata's face was flushed with rage, her fists clenched tightly at her sides. The air in the room felt thick with tension, a simmering storm of emotions as they all tried to process what had happened.
Shipra, lying on the bed, her body curled into a cocoon, looked almost fragile. Her head rested in Namrata's lap, the warmth of her friend's presence the only comfort she could find. Her eyes were wide and unblinking, staring off into the distance as if trying to detach herself from the reality of the situation. The disgust she felt seemed to seep into her bones, settling in her body like a weight she couldn't shake off. Her hands trembled slightly, fingers curling into the bedsheet beneath her.
"No, don't involve the security officer, Namrata," Shipra finally whispered, her voice barely audible, still shaky. "I don’t want to make this any bigger than it already is."
Namrata's eyes flashed with disbelief. "What? How can you say that, Shipra? Those animals don’t deserve to get away with this. They’ll think they can keep doing this to others! We have to do something."
Shipra squeezed her eyes shut, shaking her head. "I can't. I just… I don't want to go through all that. The questions, the investigations, the shame that’ll follow…and then what if Alok comes to know about it.........I just want it to be over."
Patode, sitting in a wooden chair by the bed, remained silent for a moment, his knuckles bruised and raw from the punishment he'd dealt. His usually calm demeanor was stretched thin, and though he spoke softly, the barely controlled fury in his voice was unmistakable. "Shipra ma'am is right," he said, flexing his fingers gingerly. "No point in dragging this out more than it needs to be."
He glanced up, his eyes meeting Namrata's with a steely resolve. "Beside, I’ve taken care of those motherfuckers for good. I made sure they'll not even dream of doing anything like that to anyone let alone even think about coming near to either of you again." His voice carried a dangerous edge, as though the violence he had unleashed was only the beginning if Alokk and his friend dared to step out of line again.
Namrata bit her lip, torn between wanting justice and knowing how much more trauma the security officer could bring for Shipra. She looked down at her friend, stroking her hair gently. Shipra's face was pale, her breathing still shallow. Her fear was palpable, like a shadow that hung over all of them, filling the room.
"Namrata, please go get some bandages and antiseptic. His hands are bruised," Shipra said softly, her voice filled with concern as she sat back on the bed. Her gaze remained on Patode, noticing the way his knuckles had swollen and split from the earlier fight.
"Right," Namrata responded, quickly heading out to find the first-aid kit, leaving the two of them alone in the room.
Shipra’s eyes met Patode’s, filled with gratitude. She struggled to find the right words. "Thank you, Patode. I don’t know what would have happened if you hadn’t shown up when you did," she said, her voice still shaky but laced with sincerity. Her mind was still reeling from the harrowing events, but the overwhelming relief of having been rescued by him washed over her. In that moment, she felt both safe and vulnerable, her emotions raw from the shock.
Patode shifted in his chair, offering Shipra a faint smile. "Don’t mention it, ma’am. Honestly, it was just luck. You accidentally took my phone after our little accident, and that’s what led me to follow you. I’m sorry I didn’t get to you sooner, though—I lost track of you both for a while, and it took me some time to find you," he said humbly, his tone apologetic.
Shipra looked at him with warmth, shaking her head gently. "Oh, Patode, you don’t need to apologize for that. I’m just so grateful you came when you did. I don’t know what would’ve happened without you," she replied, placing her hand on his arm in a gesture of gratitude and trust.
Patode’s expression softened at her touch. "Like I said before, Shipra," he began, his voice steady and reassuring, "trust me, and I won’t let anything happen to you while you’re posted here." His words carried a quiet but unwavering confidence, the kind that calmed her troubled heart.
Just then, Namrata returned, carrying the first-aid kit. She paused at the door, observing the brief, unspoken moment between Shipra and Patode before stepping inside. As she handed over the bandages and antiseptic, her curiosity got the better of her. "What exactly did you do, Patode?" she asked quietly, her tone a mixture of concern and curiosity.
Patode glanced at her, then at Shipra, his expression shifting from gentle to serious. "Let’s discuss it later in the evening, Right now, there’s something important I need to tell Shipra ma’am. I know it's not the right time but the news is linked with our investigation work."
Shipra straightened up slightly, her concern for Patode replaced with apprehension. "What is it, Patode?" she asked, sensing the gravity in his tone. "I’m fine now, with you two here. Please, just tell me."
Patode stood up, his face stern as he prepared to deliver the news. "Sanju was kidnapped by Saad’s men this morning," he said, his voice heavy.
Shipra’s eyes widened in shock, her heart dropping. "What?!" she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper. "Oh God, that poor girl. Patode, we need to file a report immediately. She could be in serious danger!"
Patode sighed, his expression hardening as he explained. "I’m already on it, ma’am. The village is in an uproar. The women from the Self-Help Groups have stormed the local security officer station, demanding action. This time, Saad has crossed the line. I’m talking with the local administration and pulling all the strings I can to get her free."
Shipra’s face paled, her emotions overwhelming her once more. The day had gone from bad to worse. First, Alokk’s betrayal, and now Sanju’s abduction. Her mind raced, guilt washing over her. "This is all my fault," she whispered, her voice breaking. "I must’ve led Alokk on, made him think I was... that kind of woman. And now, because of my investigation, Sanju is in danger. I brought all this upon us." Her eyes filled with tears again, her body trembling under the weight of the guilt and fear.
Namrata, who had been quietly bandaging Patode’s hands, looked up sharply. "Shipra, no. None of this is your fault. You can’t blame yourself for the actions of these vile men. In a society like this, where women are constantly pushed down, some men just wait for any chance to control or violate women—especially women who speak up or challenge their twisted rules. You didn’t lead anyone on. You didn’t ask for this."
Patode nodded in agreement, his expression softening. "Namrata’s right, ma’am. Don’t think for a second that any of this is on you. These men don’t need a reason to act like predators. You did nothing wrong, and neither did Sanju. What’s happening to her is because of that bastard Saad, not because of your work. And I swear, I won’t rest until I get her back safely."
Shipra wiped her eyes, trying to steady her breathing. Though she knew they were right, the guilt gnawed at her insides, making it hard to shake off the feeling of responsibility for the chaos surrounding them. "Please, Patode, help Sanju. If anything happens to her, I’ll always feel like it was my fault. If there’s anything I can do, please let me know," she said, her voice thick with concern.
Patode looked at her with firm reassurance. "You just relax, ma’am. You’ve already been through enough today. I promise, I’ll get Sanju back safely," he said, his voice calm but resolute. "I’ll take care of everything, and I’ll keep you updated. If you need me, I’m just a phone call away."
Shipra nodded, her body finally relaxing a little as she absorbed the weight of his words. "Thank you, Patode," she said softly, a glimmer of trust returning to her expression.
Patode gave a respectful nod before standing up. "Take care, Shipra," he said, then quietly left the room.
"So, Shipra, have you talked to Alok yet?" Namrata asked.
"No, not yet... I was planning to after work, but with everything that's happening, I just don’t have the courage. And now this incident with Alokk… Do you think I should tell him about it?" Shipra responded, her voice betraying a hint of concern.
"I wouldn’t advise that, Shipra. Don’t take this the wrong way, but as far as I know Alok, instead of supporting you, he might start blaming you for being careless. You two had a little argument yesterday, didn’t you? My suggestion is to talk to him, but avoid sharing things he won’t understand, which could lead to another fight," Namrata said, placing her hand gently on Shipra's.
"You're probably right, Namrata. I’m not really in the right state of mind to talk to him calmly anyway," Shipra admitted, appreciating Namrata’s perspective, knowing how Alok could react.
"It can wait. He’s not expecting a call before your office hours, right? For now, get some rest. A nap will help you relax. I’ll be here if you need anything," Namrata added in a firmer tone.
***********************************************
"Just let me go, bhau! I swear I'll kill that motherfucker. I'll tear him to pieces! How dare he lay a hand on my sister!" Bhiva's voice trembled with rage, his body straining against Patode’s iron grip as he pushed and struggled, desperate to break free. His face was flushed, his muscles tense with fury, and his eyes burned with a fierce, uncontrolled fire. It was as though every fiber of his being demanded retribution.
Patode tightened his hold, gritting his teeth as he tried to restrain Bhiva, who was close to slipping out of his grasp. "Calm down, Bhiva! You’re not thinking straight! Do you even know where to find her? You’re charging at this without a plan—what are you gonna do, go up against Saad Hasan on your own? That’s suicide!" Patode’s voice was calm, but firm, trying to inject reason into Bhiva’s enraged mind. "Don’t make rash, stupid decisions out of anger. You know I’m not sitting idle here. The moment I found out Sanju is your sister, I’ve been doing everything I can to get her back. We’ll find her, but not like this. Not with you going off on a blind rampage!"
But Bhiva wasn’t listening. His anger had been simmering since the moment he got back from Pune earlier that day, only to learn the devastating news: his cousin sister, Sanju, had been abducted by Saad Hasan. Sanju wasn’t his biological sister, but that didn’t matter. She was the only female in his extended family, and from the moment she was born, Bhiva had treated her like his own. Their bond ran deep, deeper than blood, and now the thought of her in the clutches of a monster like Saad was unbearable. It made his blood boil with a rage he couldn’t contain.
Bhiva was only 25, but his reputation was already known far and wide. He was hot-headed, impulsive, and quick-witted. Despite his temper, he was resourceful and sharp, the kind of guy who could get things done with a snap of his fingers. Patode had come to rely on him for exactly that reason—whenever something needed to be handled discreetly, Bhiva was his go-to man. Patode trusted him to take care of things that no one else could, and Bhiva always delivered. But when it came to women, Bhiva was a different beast entirely.
It was as though a switch flipped inside him. He became wild, perverted, and didn't cared for outcome. This unpredictable behaviour of his was the reason Patode had been keeping him at arm's length ever since Shipra and Namrata came to Ambruj. But now he needed him, and that to on this very exact day.
Earlier when Namrata questioned Patode if he had an ulterior motive, she had been right to suspect him. Patode had been going soft on Shipra not only because he wanted in on the investigation to clear his name but also to use this opportunity to get rid of Saad Hasan. For a long time, Patode had been working under Saad Hasan, forced to swallow his pride and play second fiddle to a man he despised. It wasn’t just that he hated Saad personally—though that was certainly part of it—it was the fact that Saad was the alpha male, the one calling all the shots. Patode’s ambition, his hunger for power, gnawed at him constantly. His animal instincts craved supremacy, to be the one at the top, to be the undisputed leader and with Shipra stumbling on the investigation work he found a way to kick start his plan to dethrone Saad hasan and occupy his position.
Patode’s plan was a masterclass in manipulation, driven by ambition, lust, and a deep-rooted hunger for power. Patode's first move was to carefully manipulated Saad Hasan into getting rid of Sanju, knowing full well what the fallout would be. Sanju, though not Bhiva's biological sister, was the closest thing to a sister he had. Patode understood Bhiva’s hot-headed, impulsive nature and knew that, once he heard of Sanju’s abduction, he would be consumed by rage.
This reaction was exactly what Patode had been counting on from the beginning. He needed Bhiva’s blind fury to eliminate Saad Hasan for him. Patode knew that Bhiva wouldn’t rest until he had killed Saad, and Patode was perfectly content to let him do the dirty work. Patode didn’t even need to intervene directly. All he had to do was create the perfect circumstances, providing just the right opportunity for Bhiva to confront Saad and kill him in cold blood. Once Bhiva’s revenge was complete, Patode would be free to swoop in and seize power.
But that was just the beginning of Patode’s grand plan.
Once Saad was out of the picture, Patode’s next move would be to manipulate the investigation led by Shipra into a narrative that would pin all of the illegal activities in the Self-Help Group (SHG) operations, all the financial fraud directly on Saad. Patode’s goal was to make it appear as though Saad had been the mastermind behind every shady deal and corrupt scheme, assisted by a few minor players, while Patode himself came out squeaky clean.
With Saad gone and the investigation “wrapped up,” Patode would be in the clear, free from any suspicion or blame. Shipra’s investigation would conveniently close with Saad taking the fall for everything, and Patode would be able to rise to power taking his place, unchallenged and unscathed. This would also give him all the freedom he wanted with Shipra. He would then seduce her into her personal slut just like Namrata. In his mind, both women would fall under his control, serving him in whatever way he pleased.
And luck seemed to be on his side. The incident with Shipra earlier in the day had unexpectedly cast him in the role of her hero, and he could feel the growing warmth in her eyes in the way she looked at him. There was a new spark between them, a subtle shift that hadn’t been there before, and he knew he wouldn’t miss the chance to capitalize on it.
And for Sanju and Bhiva, they were nothing more than collateral damage in his grand scheme for Patode—mere nuissance to be eliminated.
"Just calm down, Bhiva. You’ll get your chance, I promise. But right now, we have to make sure Sanju is safe. Do you understand? Or do you want her dead?" Patode’s voice was firm, his eyes locking onto Bhiva’s in a final attempt to rein in his fury.
Bhiva froze, his breathing heavy as the weight of Patode’s words sank in. As much as his thirst for revenge burned inside him, he knew that Sanju’s safety had to come first. His clenched fists loosened, though the anger still simmered beneath the surface. "What do we do then?" he asked, his voice shaky, barely able to contain the vengeance that threatened to spill over.
"Listen closely," Patode said, his tone now calm but commanding. "Here’s what we’re going to do..."
***********************************************
"You're taking this way too seriously, Alok. You don’t need to go to such lengths over a baseless doubt that Namrata planted in your head," Rahul tried to reason, his tone calm but concerned.
"Make the call, Rahul," Alok insisted, after a few moments of hesitation. "I won’t be at peace until I’m sure Namrata was just trying to get under my skin and nothing more."
Ever since his conversation with Namrata, where she hinted at Shipra having a fling with someone, Alok had been on edge. His mind, already poisoned by Chetan’s suspicions, couldn’t shake off Namrata’s insinuations. Desperate to settle his growing anxiety, he’d invited Rahul over for drinks, hoping his friend would help get to the bottom of it. Alok wanted Rahul to call Namrata and fish for anything that could confirm she was simply messing with him.
"Are you sure about this, Alok? Wouldn’t it be better to just talk to Shipra directly?" Rahul asked, eyeing his friend with a raised brow.
"No, man," Alok shook his head. "If Namrata’s just playing games, which I’m almost certain she is, asking Shipra directly will just create unnecessary tension between us. We’ve already had a fight recently, and I don’t want to make things worse."
Rahul sighed, sensing Alok’s determination. "Alright, if that’s what you want." He reluctantly pulled out his phone and dialed Namrata.
"Well, well, Rahul," Namrata’s voice came through the other end, dripping with sarcasm. "I didn’t think you’d ever bother calling me again. What happened? Miss me already, or did your new girlfriend dump you too?"
"Hello, Namrata," Rahul replied coolly, unfazed by her biting tone. "It’s nice to see you’ve become even more insufferable. And no, I haven’t been dumped—because Neha isn’t my girlfriend. And no, I haven’t missed you either. I’m calling because I found some of your stuff, and I wanted to know if you want it back, or should I donate it."
Namrata chuckled, clearly entertained. "Oh, come on, Rahul. You don’t need excuses to talk to me. There’s no shame in missing your ex, especially one as stunning and skilled as me—in and out of bed."
"Right, with your ‘exceptional’ talent for manipulation too," Rahul retorted, keeping his tone sharp. "Speaking of which, I hope you’re not manipulating Shipra this time around with your ultra modern philosophy on living an adventurous life. I heard you two are staying together in some village. And before you ask—no, I’m not stalking you. I saw it in one of Shipra’s Facebook posts, that’s how I know you’re tagging along with her."
Rahul casually dropped Shipra’s name into the conversation, trying to bait Namrata into revealing more. Though he kept his voice nonchalant, his real goal was to extract some information—anything—that would help put Alok’s mind at ease.
"What you're calling manipulation is actually helping, Rahul. But of course, you and your male ego wouldn't understand that," Namrata snapped, her tone cold. "I don’t need my stuff back. You can donate it or do whatever you want with it. Is that all?" She was clearly trying to shut down the conversation, eager to move on.
"Call it whatever you want, Namrata, but leave that innocent woman out of it. Shipra is happy in her marriage with a nice man. She doesn’t need your over-the-top modern ‘femininity’ to lead a satisfied life." Rahul's words were calculated, knowing full well that Shipra had her own reservations about Alok. He wanted to strike a nerve, hoping Namrata would let something slip.
There was a brief pause before Namrata shot back, her voice laced with contempt. "Yeah, what a nice man she has. A man who dumps all his family responsibilities on her and sends her off to this godforsaken village to face hardships he couldn’t even handle himself when he was in a job. A man who expects her to climb the career ladder, all while he chases his own dreams and ambitions, crushing hers in the process."
Rahul stayed silent, sensing she was about to say something critical.
"And don’t even get me started on how satisfied Shipra is in that marriage," Namrata continued, her voice rising with frustration. "Because she’s not—neither mentally, nor physically. She’s miserable, Rahul, and if I’m helping her get a taste of something she’s been missing for so long—something she’s been desperately craving—then that’s not manipulation. That’s what friends do."
There was a sudden silence on the other end, as if Namrata realized she had said too much. Her earlier bravado crumbled, and her tone shifted. "Don't call me again, Rahul. We’re done... goodbye," she said, her voice now low and composed, before abruptly ending the call.
"Wait—Namrata, hold on... what did you mean by that?" Rahul tried to catch her before she hung up, his heart racing as he sensed there was more she hadn’t revealed. But it was too late. The line had already gone dead.
Rahul sat back, his mind spinning. Namrata had all but confirmed what Alok feared—that Shipra was struggling, and perhaps there was more going on beneath the surface of their marriage than either of them had realized.
"I’m sorry, man, but it looks like Namrata is definitely up to something. It’s time you had a serious conversation with Shipra and cleared things up," Rahul advised, watching as Alok sat silently, lost in thought.
"Yeah, you’re right," Alok finally replied, though his mind was now racing with all the indecent possibilities behind Namrata’s words.
"It’s probably nothing, Alok," Rahul said, trying to reassure him. "Shipra’s a smart woman. I’m sure she can handle Namrata and her twisted ideas. But since they’re together, I’d suggest keeping in touch with Shipra regularly. If she can’t come back because of work, maybe you should take some time off and visit her yourself."
"Yeah... I’ll do that," Alok mumbled, still deep in thought. "Thanks for your help, man. Sorry for dragging you into all this."
"Don’t worry about it," Rahul said, giving Alok a firm handshake before getting up to leave. "You know where to find me if you need anything."
Alok nodded, though his thoughts were already far away, swirling with doubt and uncertainty as he watched Rahul walk out the door.
***********************************************
"Hey, any news from Patode about Sanju?" Shipra asked, worry evident in her voice as she stepped into Namrata's room.
Namrata looked up, offering a reassuring smile. "Oh, you're awake. Are you feeling better now? Patode called—he’s handled the situation. Sanju isn’t free yet, but he has ensured that she won’t be harmed. He’s on his way here as we speak."
Shipra sighed, visibly relieved as she sank onto the bed beside Namrata. "Yeah, I feel much better now, especially knowing Sanju’s safe."
"Good," Namrata replied, pausing thoughtfully before continuing. "You know, Shipra, Patode isn’t just a womanizer. Sure, he may have a pervert mind and a bit of a wild streak when it comes to women, but he’s also dependable. He’s the kind of man who not only knows how to please women but can actually care for them when it counts." She said this with a subtle edge, her words intentionally contrasting Patode’s reliability with her frustrations about Alok.
Shipra noticed the tone and gave Namrata a questioning look, sensing there was more behind her words. Namrata’s earlier conversation with Rahul had clearly left her irritated, and the hint of disapproval in her voice toward Alok wasn’t lost on Shipra.
"Yes, what he’s done today for both me and Sanju is truly commendable," Shipra agreed, nodding thoughtfully. "Maybe I misjudged him. He’s definitely not like Viresh." Patode’s actions today had begun to shift her view of him—from a man she’d written off as just another pleasure-seeker to someone capable of genuine support.
"And he’s not like Alok either," Namrata added pointedly, letting her frustration show. "After all, it’s because of Alok’s choices that you’re dealing with all these challenges now."
Shipra stayed silent, not refuting Namrata’s criticism of Alok. As devoted as she was to her husband, she couldn’t ignore the doubts that had quietly lingered in the back of her mind for long. Alok’s decision to quit his stable job and prepare for the civil services felt like an impulsive choice, one made without fully considering the impact on their family. It had left her shouldering the burden of financial responsibilities—something she’d accepted without a any trouble initially, hoping it was a temporary sacrifice for a greater good. Yet, with each passing day, the strain had only grown, and today’s horrifying incident had pushed her limits.
She thought bitterly about how, had Alok been more considerate of their future and instead of his aspirations, she might not be here in this remote village, facing dangers and obstacles she was not prepared for. He hadn’t involved her in his decision; he hadn’t thought about the hardships she would have to endure, the strain of being away from her child, or the growing distance it would wedge between them. The toll it was taking on their family—on their marriage—seemed to be the last thing on his mind.
As the questions circled in her mind, she couldn’t help but wonder: what if Alok had made different choices? What if he’d chosen to make sacrifices for their family’s stability, just as he expected her to do? What if he cared for her just like Patode did?
"Yeah, and ever since we arrived, he’s been nothing but helpful," Namrata said, a playful grin on her face. "Sure, he has a bit of an uncontrollable sex drive, but with a libido like his and beauty like ours around, who could really blame him?" she joked. "But seriously, Shipra, if you’re going to keep pushing forward with this investigation, keep Patode close. He’s someone you can rely on, and with him around, you’ll be safer. This place isn’t easy to navigate, and while we women are fully capable, having a strong, dependable man like Patode in situations like these is invaluable."
"You’re right, Namrata," Shipra nodded, her face serious. "After what happened to Sanju, it’s clear this isn’t something I can handle alone. It’s beyond just paperwork now."
"Exactly," Namrata replied, her tone softening. "But for now, don’t stress. Everything’s under control. Why don’t you call Alok before Patode gets back?"
"Good idea, I should check in," Shipra agreed, giving Namrata a thankful smile before heading to her room to call Alok.
Shipra returned to her room, replaying Namrata’s words in her mind as her own thoughts churned. She sighed, picked up her phone, and dialed Alok.
The phone rang a few times before he answered. “Hey, Alok. Sorry I couldn’t catch up with you yesterday. The new campaign work just started, and with the investigation, it’s been non-stop. How are you? And how’s Aarav?” Shipra asked, trying to sound cheerful.
There was a pause. “Yeah, I can tell you’ve been busy lately. We’re all fine,” he replied in a flat, measured tone. “Aarav misses you a lot; he was hoping you’d come by this weekend.”
She closed her eyes briefly, feeling a pang of guilt. “I miss you both so much. I’m really sorry, Alok—I won’t be able to make it this weekend. The bank campaign is taking up all my time, but I promise, next weekend, I’ll be there. You sound… a bit off. Is everything alright?”
“I’m fine. Just… caught up with a few things. You know how it is,” he replied, his tone a shade too nonchalant. “How about Namrata? Is she adjusting well?”
Shipra relaxed a little. “She’s doing well. Surprisingly, she’s taking to the village life better than I expected.”
A brief silence hung in the air before Alok broke it. “I am sure is, Shipra, did you know Rahul and Namrata broke up?”
Shipra hesitated, her mind flipping back to the confessions Namrata had shared on their journey to the village. “Yes… she told me about it. Apparently, Rahul cheated on her. She wanted to get away from him, and maybe from everything that reminded her of that relationship.”
“Oh, I see,” Alok said, but he sounded distracted, as if weighing whether to say something more. His voice grew tentative, and he took a breath, about to ask Shipra directly what Namrata’s true intentions were when he heard a faint voice on her end.
“Shipra ma’am, are you feeling better? I brought you some homemade special chicken soup. Just a taste, and you’ll forget all about that loser Alok,” Patode’s voice drifted through the door, interrupting the moment.
Shipra froze, and with a flustered glance at the door, hurried to wrap up the call. “Alok, I think my food’s here. I’ll call you back, okay? Love you. Take care,” she said quickly, hanging up before he could respond. She barely noticed if he’d heard her, let alone if he’d caught any part of Patode’s unfortunate comment. The last thing she wanted was for Alok to overhear anything remotely connected to her recent struggles or Sanju’s incident.
On the other end, Alok stared at his phone, stunned. He sat still, Shipra’s rushed goodbye still echoing in his mind, but it was Patode’s faint words that he fixated on, replaying them over and over. Though garbled, the pieces he caught, “Shipra… I brought…you'll forget loser Alok…” struck his heart like ice. It left a sour taste in his mouth and made him feel a deep knot in his stomach tighten.
What had he just overheard? He thought of Shipra’s distracted, evasive tone and the odd excuse about a food delivery. Whose voice was that—a man’s voice, and at this late hour? What was going on with Shipra? A series of questions started flooding his mind, each darker than the last. Was she hiding something from him? All his lingering doubts and suspicions, once fleeting and easily brushed aside, now began to solidify into a single, crushing thought—was Shipra having an affair?
End of Chapter 23: Setback or An Opportunity? : Part 2
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