~From Ashes to Passion~ [Multicouple Series #3]

~03~ Fragility

I stood up and saluted, sarcasm dripping from my every move. "Aye aye, Captain."

My mother chuckled, watching my antics. "And take Sammy with you," she suggested.

My grin turned into an exasperated scowl. "Mom, your grumpy son is busy in some unknown world. I asked him, but he directly said no. And on my handsome face, no less!"

My father chuckled this time, shaking his head. "Don't worry. Sammy must have some work, otherwise he would have definitely gone."

My mother nodded, but a flicker of sadness crossed her face. 

Among the two of us, Samarthya had always been the quieter, more mature one. 

He never asked for much, never complained, and never demanded attention. 

But that same restraint tugged at my mother's heart, making her wonder if she'd failed to fill the void in his life.

My father, always attuned to his wife's feelings, reached out and placed a reassuring hand over hers. "Everything is fine," he said softly, his eyes holding hers with quiet conviction.

I watched my parents, my own smile turning gentle. 

I knew how much they worried about Sammy, and honestly, I did too. 

Samarthya was my rock, my ever-reliable older brother who always had his back, no matter the situation. 

For me, Sammy wasn't just a sibling—he was my shield, my support, and my silent hero.

With a determined nod, I headed to my room. 

I texted Miss Shergill about the deal and presentation, letting her know she needed to bring her A-game. 

Then, I pulled out my suitcase and started packing.

Mumbai awaited, and with it, the big day that could change everything for NOOR and NIYARA. 

Whatever challenges lay ahead, I Nikhil Randhawa was ready to face them—presentation, collaboration, and everything in between.

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I stood in the sprawling garden of the Sidorov mansion, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

The deal in Russia had gone far better than I'd anticipated, and the euphoria of my success made everything seem brighter. 

I couldn't wait to fly back to Chandigarh and share the good news with my brother. 

But for now, I had some time to explore, and I was determined to make the most of it.

Bonding with Mikhail and Mr. Leonid had been an unexpected highlight of my trip. 

Mr. Leonid was warm and fatherly, while Mikhail, though dangerous, was surprisingly fun-loving.