Author’s POV,

As Pihu fainted in Rudra's arms, a wave of concern washed over him, erasing the anger, possessiveness, and obsession that had consumed him moments before. His gaze softened, and he cradled her delicate form, his heart aching with worry. "Pihu, my Pearl, wake up, wake up," he whispered, his voice laced with genuine concern.

As Pihu remained unresponsive, Rudra's heart raced with fear and desperation. Without wasting a moment, Rudra carefully carried Pihu to his car, his grip firm yet gentle, as if he held a fragile treasure. He settled her onto the backseat, ensuring her comfort and safety. Unable to bear the distance, he decided to hold her close, cradling her on his lap, holding her securely in his arms as if afraid she would disappear if he let go. His grip on her tightened, a mix of possessiveness and genuine concern evident in his touch.

Veer sat in the front seat, witnessing Rudra's display of passion and worry. He could feel the intensity emanating from Rudra, his unwavering love for Pihu driving him to protect her at any cost. Rudra's voice cut through the tension-filled air, tinged with a mix of urgency and emotion. "Veer, I need you to arrange for my private doctor to be waiting at the mansion before we arrive. And make sure there are no delays or negligence."

Veer nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. He made the necessary calls, ensuring that Rudra's instructions would be carried out meticulously. Deep down, he held onto a glimmer of hope that Rudra's concern for Pihu's well-being would help him understand the importance of trust, respect, and allowing her the space to flourish as an individual and also hope that he won’t repeat what he did today.

In the backseat of the car, Rudra's gaze never wavered from Pihu's unconscious face. He held her delicately, his fingers brushing against her cheek, his voice filled with a mix of yearning and determination. "Pihu, my Pearl, please wake up. I can't bear to see you like this. Wake up, my love."

As the car sped towards the mansion, Rudra's gaze never left Pihu's unconscious face. A myriad of emotions flickered across his features—love, possessiveness, and a fierce determination to keep her safe.

As they arrived at the mansion, a team of medical professionals stood ready to attend to Pihu's needs. Rudra carried her into the grand mansion, his footsteps echoing through the opulent halls as he made his way to his luxurious bedroom. Tenderly, he laid her on the plush bed, his gaze never leaving her pale face. The weight of worry bore heavily on his shoulders, his heart pounding with each passing second.

The doctor, with a calm and reassuring demeanor, examined Pihu with utmost care. Time seemed to stand still as Rudra anxiously awaited the doctor's diagnosis. The air in the room grew heavy with anticipation, every heartbeat echoing in Rudra's ears. After what felt like an eternity, the doctor turned to Rudra, breaking the deafening silence. "Mr. Rathore, I have examined Ms.Pihu thoroughly. Physically, she appears to be exhausted and emotionally distressed. However, there is no cause for alarm. I have administered medication to help her rest, and she will be alright till morning.”

A surge of relief flooded Rudra's being, although he maintained his composed exterior, hiding the depth of his emotions. As the doctor left the room, Rudra approached Pihu's bedside, his gaze tender as he watched over her slumbering form. The room was filled with an atmosphere of serenity, the soft glow of the bedside lamp casting a warm, comforting light. Rudra's passion and possessiveness, though momentarily subdued, still lingered in his heart, intermingled with a newfound sense of protectiveness and tenderness.

Delicately, Rudra's fingers caressed Pihu's face, tracing a path of both gentleness and calculated ownership. He found himself captivated by her ethereal beauty—a delicate balance of vulnerability and inner strength. As he held her hand, his touch was simultaneously reverent and possessive, as though she were a cherished possession in his ruthless world. In the silence of the room, he poured out his unfiltered emotions, knowing that Pihu slumbered, oblivious to his confession.

As Rudra's voice filled the room, it carried an intricate tapestry of emotions, woven with threads of affection and unyielding determination. His eyes, windows to a complex soul, mirrored the struggle within him—a battle between his consuming love for Pihu and the possessive obsession that defined his cold-hearted existence.

"My Pearl," he murmured, the tenderness in his voice juxtaposed against the harsh reality of his world. "I deeply regret the fear I have instilled in you, My Pearl. But, the intensity of my emotions is beyond measure, and the mere thought of losing you sends tremors through my very being. If it meant taking a life to ensure that you would not leave me, I would do so without hesitation. My whole shadow is being tainted by sins so I won’t hesitate to commit more sins.”

Rudra's voice trembled with a mixture of vulnerability and conviction as he continued to share his truth. "Yet, in the depths of my dark existence, you have emerged as a force that defies my control. You ignite within me a passion so fierce, it consumes reason. I understand that willingly accepting me is impossible, considering my life as a cold-hearted mafia leader. But if it comes to that, I am prepared to force you into accepting me, for you are the sole beacon of light in my darkened world, a light I have yearned for during my long sojourn in the shadows. I refuse to let you slip away. Call it selfishness, if you will, but I shall ensure that you are bound to me forever."

His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of conflicting emotions. Rudra grappled with the realization that his heart belonged to two realms—one consumed by darkness, the other ignited by an overwhelming love for Pihu. The chilling detachment he had cultivated as a mafia lord clashed with the depth of his affections, creating an intricate tapestry of contradictions within him.

Seeking solace in their entwined destinies, Rudra nestled beside Pihu in the bed, his mind consumed by thoughts of their uncertain future. As sleep claimed him, he held her tightly, the embodiment of both his undying affection and the chilling coldness that defined his existence as a mafia leader. In their shared slumber, the duality of Rudra's character lingered—a complex fusion of devotion, obsession, and the unyielding ruthlessness inherent in his position within the mafia world.

Next day in the morning,

As Pihu's eyes fluttered open, she found herself in an unfamiliar, opulent bedroom. Confusion washed over her, but as the events of the previous night flooded her mind, a mixture of fear, anger, and sadness engulfed her. She sat up on the bed, her trembling hands coming to her face as tears welled up in her eyes, betraying the turmoil within her. Tears streamed down Pihu's face, their presence an unspoken testament to her inner turmoil.

The memories of Rudra's possessiveness, his cold-hearted words, his ruthless action and the intensity of his obsession replayed before her like a haunting melody. The weight of her situation settled upon her shoulders, leaving her feeling trapped and uncertain of what lay ahead. Her heart ached with a sense of loss for the life she once knew, as she struggled to make sense of the overwhelming emotions that now consumed her.

As Pihu sat on the edge of the bed, lost in her thoughts, the door creaked open, and a maid entered the room. It was clear that she was there on Rudra's orders to attend to Pihu's needs. The maid's presence only intensified Pihu's feelings of unease, as she wondered what role she would now play in Rudra's world.

With hesitant steps, the maid approached Pihu, her voice gentle yet tinged with an underlying sense of obedience. "Good morning, Miss. Mr. Rathore has instructed me to help you get ready. Please allow me to assist you," she said, her eyes betraying a mixture of sympathy and caution.

As Pihu's exhaustion weighed heavily upon her, she chose not to engage in an argument. However, a flicker of determination blended with vulnerability sparked within her, empowering her to express her preferences. With a voice that held both firmness and politeness, she addressed the maid, "Thank you, but I would prefer to get ready myself. Please, Can you leave me alone?"

The maid, taken aback by Pihu's unexpected request, paused for a moment, processing the young woman's words. After a brief internal struggle, she nodded in understanding, acknowledging Pihu's desire for solitude. "Okay, miss. All your necessities are there in the bathroom. If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to call me. Your clothes are also in the closet, to be worn as Mr. Rathore has ordered for you," she conveyed respectfully before leaving the room for Pihu to navigate the unfamiliar space on her own.

Stepping into the en-suite bathroom, Pihu found herself immersed in opulence and grandeur. Every item she needed was meticulously arranged, a testament to Rudra's meticulous nature. It was a stark contrast to the simplicity of her life, a reminder of the vast divide that now existed between them.

As she approached the walk-in closet, her fingertips brushed against the exquisite fabrics that lay before her. However, she couldn't help but notice the conspicuous absence of modern attire among the opulent collection. The sight puzzled her, as she seldom wore ethnic dresses in her daily life, reserving them for special occasions and festivities. Nevertheless, with a thoughtful gaze, she selected a light blue suit, its subtle elegance and modest design offering a semblance of familiarity in the midst of the unfamiliar.

With each step of her morning routine, Pihu sought solace in the familiar motions that brought her a sense of comfort. The cool touch of water against her skin provided a momentary respite from the complexities of her situation. As she lathered her hair, her mind drifted to thoughts of escape, searching for a glimmer of hope amidst the opulence that surrounded her.

The weight of her circumstances bore heavily on her shoulders, urging her to consider the possibilities, however slim they may be. She pondered potential escape routes, strategizing in her mind, determined to find a way out of this gilded cage. With each passing moment, her resolve grew stronger, fueled by the desire to escape from Rudra’s clutches.

After getting ready, Pihu stood before the mirror, her gaze focused and determined. She looked deep into her own eyes, searching for the strength within. "I can't allow myself to be weak," she whispered, her voice resolute. "I must find a way to escape from this place. I cannot let myself be trapped here any longer. Shivani must be worried about me."

As she spoke those words, a fire ignited within her, fueling her determination to break free. Pihu knew that she had to be courageous, to rely on her own instincts and resourcefulness. She couldn't rely on anyone else to save her; she had to be her own savior. With a deep breath, she summoned her inner resolve and declared, "Let's go, Pihu. We will find an escape route from this place, no matter the challenges we face."

Pihu cautiously approached the bedroom door, her heart raced with anticipation. She had hoped to find the maid waiting for her, but the absence of anyone brought a surge of relief. "Thank God, no one is here," she whispered, a flicker of hope igniting within her. Now, she had a chance to find a way to escape the confines that held her captive.

Venturing into the long corridor, Pihu's footsteps echoed with a sense of urgency. Each stride carried her closer to the staircase that beckoned her downwards, promising a pathway to liberation. Her mind raced with a thousand thoughts, a mix of apprehension and unwavering resolve. As she reached the steps, a surge of adrenaline propelled her forward, her heart pounding in synchrony with her footsteps.

As Pihu approached the door, her heart raced with anticipation. The absence of anyone in sight had given her a glimmer of hope, a chance to find a way to escape. But as she swung the door open her hope quickly turned to dismay. Standing on either side of the door were two imposing bodyguards, their presence like an insurmountable wall blocking her path to freedom.

Pihu's eyes widened in surprise as she not expected this and a flicker of fear danced in her gaze, but she quickly composed herself, refusing to let her determination waver. She knew that she couldn't afford to show any signs of weakness, not in front of these formidable figures. With a deep breath, she mustered her courage and stepped forward, her voice laced with a mix of defiance and determination.

"Move aside," she commanded, her voice steady despite the tremor within her. "I need to leave."

The bodyguards exchanged a brief glance, their stern expressions unyielding. One of them, a burly man with a stoic demeanor, spoke in a deep and commanding tone. "I'm sorry, Miss, but I have strict orders not to let you leave."

Pihu felt a surge of frustration welling up within her, but she refused to back down. She squared her shoulders, meeting the bodyguards' unwavering gazes with unwavering determination. "I don’t care about your orders, and I am leaving. That's final."

With a defiant step forward, Pihu attempted to make her escape, only to be stopped abruptly by the firm grip of the bodyguards. Their strong hands held her firmly in place, resisting her every attempt to break free. Pihu struggled against their hold, her desperation fueling her determination.

Suddenly, Rudra's commanding voice cut through the tense atmosphere, sending shivers down Pihu's spine. "Leave her hand." Frozen in place, Pihu didn’t turned to face him, her gaze fixated on the floor. Fear gripped her, a haunting reminder of the beast that resided within him. She longed to escape, to avoid any confrontation with Rudra.

Rudra approached her, his grip firm on her shoulder as he turned her around to face him. Pihu's heart pounded in her chest as she tried to steady herself. She avoided meeting his gaze, afraid of what she might see reflected in his eyes.

Sensing her fear, Rudra's instincts urged him to offer comfort, to assure her that she had nothing to fear from him. But he knew that showing any sign of weakness would only push her further away. So, in his cold voice, he spoke with authority, masking the turmoil within his own heart.

"Where are you going without my permission?" Rudra's words pierced the air, his dominance and control palpable. "As I told the maid to bring you to the dining table."

Pihu's breath caught in her throat as she absorbed his words. With a mix of resignation and defiance, Pihu finally mustered the courage to raise her gaze, meeting Rudra's intense stare. Her voice trembled slightly as she spoke, the weight of her emotions evident in her words. "I don't need your permission to leave, Mr.Rathore. I am not a prisoner to be ordered around. Let me go."

Rudra's gaze softened momentarily, a flicker of regret crossing his features. But he quickly masked it, his expression returning to its cold and impassive state. "You belong to me, My Pearl. Whether you accept it willingly or not, you are bound to me. There is no escape from me. Get that in your little head."

Pihu's heart sank as she realized the depth of Rudra's possessive obsession. But she said "I will never belong to you, Mr. Rathore," she said, her voice filled with defiance and determination. "I am not an object to be owned. I will find a way out of this, I will leave you. Mark my words."

Rudra felt a surge of anger rising within him, threatening to shatter his composure. He knew he had to restrain himself from causing her harm, despite the overwhelming possessiveness that consumed him. Clasping her hand tightly, he guided her forcefully towards the dining room, Pihu resisting his every move. Her struggle to break free only fueled his determination to maintain control.

"Leave my hand, Mr. Rathore," Pihu pleaded, her voice laced with desperation and defiance, her eyes filled with a fierce determination.

Ignoring her plea, Rudra procured a chair for her and compelled her to sit. Pihu's body trembled with a mixture of fear and anger, her eyes flashing with defiance. She mustered the strength to get up from the chair, determined to resist his control. But Rudra, with a piercing glare, issued a chilling ultimatum, his voice dripping with a mix of dominance and warning. "Think twice before attempting to get up. Consider whether you would like to rather sit obediently on my lap, My Pearl."

The threat hung heavy in the air, a stark reminder of Rudra's power and the lengths he would go to assert his dominance. Pihu's eyes widened with apprehension, knowing all too well the consequences of defying him. Reluctantly, she obeyed, sinking back into the chair, her spirit temporarily subdued.

"The Devil's relentless longing for the angel's love consumes his every thought, his obsessive desire a testament to the depths he would descend for a taste of her affection."