Smiles That Hid the Storm
The announcement came over breakfast.
"We've decided," Grandma Krishi said, her voice steady and unquestioned, "that Ranveer and Najma's engagement will take place next week."
The room erupted.
Twinkle squealed. "Finally!"
Rangeer smiled openly. "About time."
Najma froze—only for a second.
Ranveer's hand found hers under the table, warm and grounding.
She squeezed back once.
"Yes," Najma said softly. "I agree."
Later that day, preparations took over the house.
Decorators moved in. Designers called. Jewelers were booked.
Najma stood with Sasha, Shruti, and Jodha reviewing outfits.
"You'll wear emeralds," Sasha said decisively.
Najma smiled faintly. "If you insist."
Shruti watched her thoughtfully. "You look happier."
Najma paused. "I feel… safe."
Across town, Twinkle walked out of her college building, phone pressed to her ear.
"I'm late," she said. "Don't wait for me."
She didn't notice the black car slowing behind her.
Didn't hear the door open.
Didn't feel the hand clamp over her mouth until it was too late.
Her phone fell to the ground—screen cracking.
The line went dead.
At the Sign residence, Najma's chest tightened suddenly.
She stopped mid-step.
"Ranveer," she whispered, "Twinkle."
He was already pulling out his phone.
No answer.
Again.
Nothing.
Fear crashed into Najma like a wave.
"She promised," Najma breathed. "She said she'd call."
Ranveer's face hardened. "Find her."
In a dark room, Twinkle stirred, wrists bound.
A familiar voice floated through the shadows.
"You should've stayed out of this."
Twinkle looked up, terror flooding her eyes.
"Rachel?"
Rachel smiled.
"Now," she said sweetly, "let's see how far your sister will go."