ch-45
It had been 20 days since Suraj and the crew had been stationed in Moscow, fully immersed in the intense shooting schedule for Raw's Rampage. As the story unraveled, the production team brought to life Ravan's cunning rise through the criminal underworld in Russia, blending charm, intelligence, and raw power. Meanwhile, Aryan had quickly found his rhythm in the bustling environment, alternately assisting the crew with minor tasks and darting around the set with boundless energy.
Aryan and Ekaterina had settled into a routine of meeting each day, an unspoken understanding blossoming between the two. Despite their language barriers, Aryan made it his mission to entertain her with exaggerated gestures, funny faces, and clumsy attempts at Russian sign language. Sometimes, he would mimic the actors rehearsing their lines, drawing hearty laughter from Ekaterina. Her laughter was a soft, melodious sound, as if it had been hidden for too long and was only now finding its way out.
Ekaterina, in turn, found joy in Aryan's antics. She began to relax in his company, responding with her delicate hand signs, which Aryan tried earnestly to interpret. Though his interpretations were often hilariously off, they both enjoyed the shared confusion and connection. One afternoon, Aryan pretended to wield a sword made of a broken broomstick, dramatically "defeating" imaginary enemies. Ekaterina clapped enthusiastically, her smile lighting up the dimly lit alley they were in.
Natalia, ever-watchful, lingered nearby with her security team, posing as local crew members and blending seamlessly into the production environment. They maintained a meticulous 360-degree security perimeter, their sharp eyes scanning for any potential threats. While appearing inconspicuous, they monitored everything, from the bustling streets to the quiet shadows of Moscow's architecture. Any hint of unusual behavior was immediately analyzed and dismissed or acted upon.
Natalia reported back to Victor daily, her updates often focused on Ekaterina's interactions with Aryan.
"Sir," Natalia began in one of her calls, her tone a mix of professionalism and warmth, "Ekaterina is thriving. She has been smiling and laughing nearly every day since she began spending time with Aryan. It's as if she's discovered a new world outside of her trauma. He's innocent, kind, and incredibly funny. Today, he tried to teach her to make paper airplanes, but his 'planes' were more like crumpled balls. Still, Ekaterina giggled endlessly."
Victor, listening on the other end, felt his stern exterior soften. "And what of his brother, Suraj?" he inquired, his voice laced with curiosity.
Natalia hesitated briefly before responding. "Suraj is meticulous and deeply invested in his work. From what I've observed, he treats everyone with respect, regardless of their role. He's passionate about his craft and fiercely protective of Aryan. They appear to share a strong bond, one that Ekaterina seems to be drawn to as well."
Victor hummed thoughtfully. "Continue your observations. Ensure Ekaterina's safety above all else."
"Yes, sir," Natalia replied, her tone unwavering.
---
Back on set, Suraj was oblivious to the undercurrent of covert operations happening around him. His focus remained on crafting the most authentic and gripping narrative possible. Ansh, the lead actor, was deep into his role, grappling with Russian dialogue that tested his patience and skills. Despite Suraj's suggestion to lip-sync and dub the lines later, Ansh stubbornly insisted on perfecting the pronunciation. His dedication inspired the crew, who often found him rehearsing late into the night.
Meanwhile, Aryan had quickly become the crew's favorite. His lively personality and curiosity made him a stress-reliever for everyone involved. Even the stoic Natalia found herself smiling occasionally at his antics, though she remained vigilant in her duties.
One afternoon, as Aryan and Ekaterina sat on a makeshift bench near the set, Aryan pulled out a small sketchpad. He had taken to drawing stick figures and animals for her, narrating each sketch with exaggerated flair. Ekaterina watched him intently, her blue eyes shimmering with amusement. When Aryan handed her the pencil, she hesitated before sketching a simple flower. Aryan gasped dramatically, praising her artistry with wild gestures, making her laugh again.
Natalia observed from a distance, her professional demeanor momentarily softened by the sight of Ekaterina's unrestrained joy. She had not seen the girl this happy in years. Later that evening, Natalia recounted the scene to Victor during their routine call.
"Sir, today Aryan and Ekaterina spent hours together. He even convinced her to draw something, and she laughed more than I've ever seen her laugh. It's… remarkable."
Victor's voice carried a hint of emotion as he responded, "It seems Aryan has a gift for bringing light to those around him. Ensure that he remains unaware of our surveillance."
"Of course, sir," Natalia assured him.
---
As the days passed, Ekaterina's bond with Aryan deepened. She began looking forward to their meetings, often waiting eagerly by Natalia's side for the moment she could slip away to the set. Aryan, in turn, grew more confident in his ability to communicate with her. He had started memorizing simple Russian phrases, practicing them tirelessly at night. Suraj noticed his younger brother's efforts and offered to help, though he often chuckled at Aryan's mispronunciations.
One evening, as the crew wrapped up a long day of shooting, Aryan excitedly approached Ekaterina with a small handmade bracelet. "For you!" he said, his English broken but clear. Ekaterina's eyes widened in surprise before she accepted the bracelet, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. She responded with a soft smile, signing, Thank you. Natalia translated the gesture for Aryan, who beamed with pride.
Natalia sent a detailed report to Victor that night, highlighting the day's events. "Sir, Ekaterina seems to have found a true friend in Aryan. Today, he gave her a bracelet, and she accepted it with visible delight. It's… heartwarming to witness. I believe these interactions are helping her heal."
Victor remained silent for a moment before responding, "Ensure that their interactions continue under your supervision. I don't want her to lose this newfound happiness."
"Yes, sir," Natalia replied.
---
Amidst the chaos of filming and covert security measures, an unspoken camaraderie had formed between the crew and Natalia's team. Though Natalia's team maintained their cover as local helpers, their presence was a reassuring constant. They worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that no harm could come to Ekaterina or Aryan.
The crew, unaware of the true purpose of the "helpers," appreciated their efficiency and dedication. Suraj, in particular, often complimented their work, noting how seamlessly they blended into the team. Little did he know, their primary objective had nothing to do with filmmaking.
As the production continued, so did the quiet yet profound friendship between Aryan and Ekaterina. Their interactions, though simple, carried a depth that transcended language and cultural barriers. For Aryan, it was a chance to make a new friend and explore his curiosity about the world. For Ekaterina, it was a rare opportunity to experience genuine connection and joy.
---
By the end of the 20th day, the set in Moscow had become a microcosm of life itself—a place where dreams were forged, relationships blossomed, and stories unfolded both on and off the screen. While Suraj and the crew pushed forward with their ambitious project, Aryan and Ekaterina found solace in each other's company, unaware of the intricate web of surveillance and protection that surrounded them.
Victor, though distant, monitored every detail with a mix of caution and hope. For the first time in years, he dared to believe that Ekaterina's smile might not be fleeting, and that Aryan's influence could be the key to her healing. As he sat in his opulent office, reviewing Natalia's latest report, a rare smile graced his lips. Perhaps, amidst the chaos of their respective worlds, something truly beautiful was beginning to take shape.
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Author note:-
:-Support story with power stones for extra chapters and motivation
:- just a question for readers do you guys
Feel story pace is slow or boring if so
Please respond or give opinion.....
(Its important for story progressions)