The heavy silence in the room lingered long after Nikhil stormed out, leaving behind an air of tension and unspoken relief. Yuvika stood still, her gaze fixed on the door through which her father had just departed. For a moment, she allowed herself to take a deep breath, letting the weight of the confrontation settle.
Mr. Kapoor turned to her, his expression softening. The sternness he'd shown only moments ago faded, replaced by the warm, familiar kindness she had always associated with him.
"Thank you… Grampa," Yuvika said softly, her voice trembling with a mix of gratitude and affection. She stepped forward, her eyes glistening as she looked at the man who had been her grandmother's closest ally.
Kapoor blinked, surprised but touched by the term. A slow smile spread across his face, and he reached out to place a gentle hand on Yuvika's head, his touch steady and reassuring. "There's no need to thank me, child," he said, his voice rich with warmth. "This was my duty—a promise I made to your grandmother long ago. She entrusted me with this responsibility, and I will carry it out until my last breath."
He paused, his lips twitching into a playful smile as he added, "Though I must say, your grandmother had a way of giving instructions that even death couldn't stop." He sighed dramatically, shaking his head with mock exasperation.
Yuvika couldn't help but laugh softly, the sound light and genuine. It was a laugh she hadn't thought possible in the wake of the past few days.
Kapoor's smile grew as he looked at her, the affection in his eyes deepening. "Ah, that's the smile your grandmother loved so dearly," he said, his voice almost wistful. "She always told me, 'Yuvika's smile can brighten even the darkest of days.' And you know what? She was right."
Yuvika's cheeks warmed, and she lowered her gaze, a shy smile lingering on her lips.
Kapoor gently tilted her chin up with his hand, meeting her eyes. "Keep that smile on your face, Yuvika," he said firmly but kindly. "The world may try to take it from you, but don't let it succeed. Your grandmother's love is with you, in this home, in this life, and in every step you take. And as long as I'm here, you'll never have to face it alone."
Her throat tightened with emotion, and she nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude. In that moment, the room, once filled with conflict, felt warm and safe. For the first time in what felt like ages, Yuvika felt the comforting presence of family—the family her grandmother had built, the family that truly cared.
As the warmth of the moment lingered, Mr. Kapoor turned his gaze to the young lawyers standing quietly behind him. Their sharp suits and composed demeanors mirrored the discipline they had shown during the tense confrontation earlier.
"Yuvika," Kapoor began, his voice kind but firm, "I believe you're already familiar with these fine young people, but allow me to formally introduce them once again." He gestured toward the trio, who stepped forward with polite nods.
"This is Arjun," he said, motioning to the tallest of the group, a young man with a strong jawline and sharp, alert eyes. "He's quick-witted and resourceful—exactly the kind of person who will keep a level head in any situation."
Next, he indicated a woman with sleek, dark hair tied neatly at the nape of her neck. Her sharp eyes and poised stance spoke of quiet authority. "This is Priya. She's not just an excellent lawyer but also skilled in handling delicate matters with precision."
Finally, Kapoor gestured to a younger man with a boyish charm but a seriousness in his demeanor. "And this is Karan. Don't let his youth fool you—he's loyal and incredibly sharp. All three of them are not just my protégés but people I trust with my life."
Yuvika nodded, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Thank you," she said sincerely. "It's reassuring to know I'm not alone in this."
Kapoor stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "They'll be staying here with you for a few days," he said, his tone gentle but resolute. "I know you're strong, Yuvika, but the situation with your father is... tense. Until Nikhil calms down, you'll need protection."
Yuvika's eyes widened slightly, and she opened her mouth to protest, but Kapoor shook his head, cutting her off gently.
"I know you might think it's unnecessary, but trust me," he said. "I'm old, Yuvika. I can't be here every moment to keep an eye on things. That's why I've entrusted this team to ensure your safety. They're discreet and professional. You won't even know they're there unless you need them."
He paused, his expression softening. "I've also arranged for a few bodyguards to remain stationed around the property. They'll keep a low profile—they're here to protect, not to disrupt your life."
Yuvika hesitated, her gaze flickering between Kapoor and the young lawyers. "Grampa, I don't want to feel like I'm living in a fortress," she said softly.
Kapoor smiled, patting her shoulder. "And you won't," he assured her. "This is just a precaution. Your grandmother would have insisted on it, and so will I. You have too much ahead of you to let anything or anyone jeopardize your safety."
Reluctantly, Yuvika nodded. "Alright," she agreed. "But only for a few days."
Kapoor chuckled lightly. "Of course. Only for a few days," he said, though the knowing glint in his eyes suggested he'd ensure her protection for as long as necessary.
He turned to his team. "Remember," he said firmly, "your job is to protect her—not interfere. Give her space, but always stay alert."
"Yes, sir," the three replied in unison, their voices resolute.
Yuvika sighed but smiled faintly. "Thank you," she said, her voice carrying both gratitude and a touch of resignation.
Kapoor's smile deepened as he squeezed her shoulder once more. "Your grandmother trusted me to look after you, Yuvika. And I will, no matter what."