FATE AND DESIRE

Chapter 2

Author's POV

Vittorio Raichand was a man with many sides. Officially, he was the CEO of Raichand Industries, a big company involved in everything from real estate to technology. But beneath his respectable image, he ruled over Mumbai's dangerous underworld.

With sharp grey eyes and a commanding presence, Vittorio smoothly handled both his business and criminal activities. Every move he made and every word he spoke was carefully planned and powerful.

Tonight, he stood in The Oberoi Hotel, glowing under the evening sky. Mumbai's elite had gathered for a glamorous party, their laughter mingling with the clinking of champagne glasses. Vittorio Raichand, a tall and imposing figure, moved through the crowd with confidence.

He was a powerful mafia boss, but tonight he was here to observe.

Next to him stood Akansh Verma, his trusted friend and business partner. Akansh, with his quick humor and sharp business skills, had become Vittorio's closest ally since moving to India. Their bond was strong, built on mutual trust and shared goals.

"So, who are you watching tonight, Vitto?" Akansh asked with a grin, noticing Vittorio's intense focus.

"Just observing," Vittorio replied, his voice calm and deep.

Akansh followed Vittorio's gaze and saw Zara Kapoor standing elegantly in the centre of the room. Zara was stunning and carried herself with a mix of grace and determination. Despite her recent losses, she radiated a quiet strength.

"Zara Kapoor," Akansh said, raising an eyebrow. "She's quite something. But maybe out of your reach." Vittorio smiled slightly. "Nothing is out of reach, Akansh. You know that. SPECIALLY HER."

"The girl next to her is not that bad either," Akansh said.

"That's Mia Khanna, her friend," Vittorio replied.

Months ago, before her parents' tragic accident, Vittorio had seen Zara at a similar event. She had caught his attention then with her lively spirit and captivating beauty. But tonight, with the recent death of her parents and the condition in her father's will that she must marry to become CEO, Vittorio saw an opportunity to step into her life.

Vittorio's POV

(After Zara's parents' death)

Standing on the terrace, I watched Zara closely. Her movements were graceful, but her eyes were filled with sadness. She was talking to people, but her mind seemed elsewhere, lost in her grief.

"She's different," I murmured, mostly to myself. "She's going through a lot," Akansh replied gently.

"But she's strong. You don't see that kind of strength often." "Yes," I agreed, my eyes narrowing thoughtfully.

"And now she's vulnerable. The sharks will start circling."

Akansh looked at me, realizing what I meant. "Are you going to talk to her? "More than that," I said firmly. "I'm going to offer her a way out."

Throughout the evening, I couldn't take my eyes off Zara. I knew I couldn't approach her tonight with everyone watching. But soon, I promised myself, I would find the right moment.

I remembered the first time I had seen Zara at a gathering. She had worn a striking red dress, her laughter ringing out like music amid dull conversations. I had been mesmerized by her charm and confidence, but I had kept his distance, knowing the timing wasn't right.

(Present)

Now, with her world turned upside down, I felt it was time to step in not to take advantage, but to protect her from the dangers surrounding her. Sitting in my luxurious penthouse, I poured myself a glass of scotch and looked out over the city lights. I was deep in thought about my next move.

"I'll need your support on this, Akansh," I said, breaking the silence between us.

"You always have it," Akansh replied without hesitation. "But you know this is more than business. This is personal."

I nodded, "Yes, it is both. They often mix."

At that moment, my phone buzzed, it was a call from Vincenzo. Vincenzo Moretti, my childhood friend and the head of a rival mafia faction. Vincenzo was one of the few people I truly trusted.

"Vittorio," Vincenzo's deep voice came through the phone. "I hear you're interested in the Kapoor girl."

I chuckled. News travels fast in our world. "Yes, Enzo. And I might need your help."

"Anything for you, brother," Vincenzo replied. "But remember, getting involved in her life means bringing her into ours."

"I know," I replied, determined. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe."

As he ended the call, I felt a sense of purpose. Zara was more than a business opportunity; she was someone I felt compelled to protect from the moment I saw her at that party.

She had a light in her eyes, even through her grief. There was a resilience that drew me in. I had made up my mind. I would approach her, not as a mafia boss but as a businessman and a man who saw a kindred spirit in her strength and solitude.

I looked out over the city, the plan becoming clearer. Zara Kapoor was more than just someone to be protected, she was someone who awakened a deep sense of responsibility and need to protect someone in me.

As their worlds were about to collide, Vittorio Raichand was ready to do whatever it took to be by her side, no matter the cost.

❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

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