The Billionaire's Bought Bride

Chapter 12: A Refuge and a Revelation

The old farmhouse, despite its initial musty air, provided a much-needed sanctuary for Arjun and Aditi. The rolling fields outside their window, bathed in the golden hues of sunrise, offered a stark contrast to the turmoil they'd left behind. Yet, the unease lingered, a constant reminder of the looming threat.

"Are you sure we shouldn't contact the police?" Aditi asked, her voice laced with worry as they sat down to a breakfast of toast and leftover fruit from the car.

Arjun reached across the table and clasped her hand. "I understand your concern, but with Isha's information being circumstantial, the police might not take immediate action. Besides, Veer is bound to have connections. We need a stronger case before we involve them."

Aditi sighed, acknowledging the truth in his words. "So, what do we do then?"

Arjun took a thoughtful bite of toast before replying. "We lay low for a while, strategize. Maybe I can find something incriminating at the office, some proof of Veer's involvement."

"And what about the company?" Aditi's voice held a hint of apprehension. "Can you just... disappear?"

He shook his head. "Not entirely. I need to maintain some semblance of normalcy, or Veer might suspect something." He reached into his pocket, pulling out his phone. "However, I can delegate some work and limit my visits to the office."

The morning was spent unpacking the essentials they'd brought and exploring the farmhouse. The peeling paint and dusty furniture held an undeniable charm, whispers of a bygone era. As they cleaned, memories surfaced for Arjun – summers spent exploring the sprawling fields with his grandmother, learning about life on the farm. Sharing these memories with Aditi forged a deeper connection, a sense of shared vulnerability and resilience.

Later in the afternoon, as they sat on the porch swing, the rhythmic creaking accompanying their conversation, Arjun brought up Isha.

"Do you think she can be trusted?" he asked, his voice laced with suspicion.

Aditi pondered the question. "She seemed genuine," she admitted. "Besides, what does she have to gain by lying?"

"Maybe revenge on Veer," Arjun suggested.

Aditi's brow furrowed. "That's a possibility. But why involve us then?"

The question hung in the air, unanswered. The truth remained shrouded, as elusive as the future they now faced.

As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink, the silence grew heavy. They knew they couldn't stay holed up in the farmhouse forever. A plan was needed, an offensive strategy to counter Veer's threat.

"We need to find something, Arjun," Aditi stated, her voice firm despite the tremor of fear. "Something concrete to prove Veer's involvement."

Arjun nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. "We will. But we can't do this alone. We need help."

His words sparked an idea in Aditi's mind. "What about Dadi Maa?" she suggested, referring to his grandmother, a woman known for her wisdom and strength.

Arjun's eyes widened in surprise. "Dadi Maa? But she's..."

"Exactly," Aditi interrupted, a hopeful smile gracing her lips. "She's sharp and resourceful. And she wouldn't hesitate to help you if she knew the truth about Veer."

A surge of hope coursed through Arjun. He hadn't considered his grandmother as an ally, but Aditi's suggestion held merit. Dadi Maa's unwavering support and sharp intellect could be an invaluable asset.

"You're right," Arjun conceded, a relieved smile replacing his initial hesitation. "I'll call her first thing tomorrow."

The decision brought a newfound sense of resolve. They wouldn't face this alone. With Aditi by his side and Dadi Maa's support secured, they could confront Veer and reclaim their lives.