𝔻𝕖𝕒𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕣𝕤, 𝕒𝕝𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕨𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕𝕟'𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕘𝕖𝕥, 𝕀'𝕞 𝕦𝕡𝕝𝕠𝕒𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠𝕕𝕒𝕪'𝕤 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟𝕪𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒 𝕤𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕝 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕠𝕟.

𝕋𝕠𝕕𝕒𝕪'𝕤 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 𝕕𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕣𝕤, ' @bookishdreamer07 , 𝕨𝕙𝕠'𝕤 𝕔𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒 𝕤𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕝 𝕕𝕒𝕪- ℍ𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕪 𝔹𝕚𝕣𝕥𝕙𝕕𝕒𝕪! 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕤𝕙 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕪 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕒𝕪!

𝕃𝕖𝕥'𝕤 𝕤𝕖𝕥 𝕒 𝕟𝕖𝕨 𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕘𝕖𝕥: ➌⓿ 𝕧𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤, ➏⓿ 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 ➊⓿ 𝕟𝕖𝕨 𝕗𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕤. 𝕀𝕗 𝕨𝕖 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕔𝕙 𝕚𝕥, 𝕀'𝕝𝕝 𝕤𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕟𝕖𝕩𝕥 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣.

𝔽𝕠𝕣 𝕟𝕠𝕨, 𝕝𝕖𝕥'𝕤 𝕕𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕓𝕒𝕔𝕜 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕖𝕟𝕛𝕠𝕪 𝕚𝕥.

ℙ𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕖 𝕤𝕦𝕡𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥 𝕦𝕤 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕘𝕦𝕪𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕀 𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤.

ⓌⓄⓇⒹ ⒸⓄⓊⓃⓉ - ➏➎➏➐
ⓅⓊⒷⓁⒾⓈⒽⒺⒹ ⓄⓃ - ➋➌/➊➋/➋➍
___________________________________________

I glanced through the rearview mirror , expecting to see him sprawled on the ground, writhing in pain. But instead, there he was-getting up and casually brushing the dust off his clothes.

I slammed on the brakes, my mind racing. How was this possible? I had hit him so hard the sound of the impact had echoed like a thunderclap.

But now, there he was, standing tall like nothing had happened. Wait... hold on. I hit him, but he didn't even fly back-just fell straight down. How on earth does that work?

(Editor : *frustratingly Shocked* really, what happened?)

I looked back through the window, my irritation mounting, only to see him walking toward my car. To make matters worse, he was waving. Waving! And that damn smile-smug and infuriating as ever.

He strolled up to my side window like we were old friends, leaned down slightly, and said, "Oh, hello! What a lovely greeting. Don't worry, everything is fine."

"What do you mean, 'everything is fine'? Nothing is fine!" I snapped, glaring at him.

"No, really," he said, his tone far too calm for my liking. "Everything is fine under your car. I personally checked it out."

(Editor : Heiinnn?)

I stared at him, dumbfounded. "Why would there be any problem under my car?"

He tilted his head, feigning innocence. "No problem? But you told me to check, so I did. I'm just being helpful."

"When did I ever tell you to check my car?!" I barked, gripping the steering wheel tightly to stop myself from doing something rash.

"Well," he said, leaning in closer, "Maybe not directly, but I thought you'd appreciate the effort."

I let out a frustrated groan. "Why on earth would I want you to inspect my car? I'd rather blow it up than trust you with anything!"

(Editor : Sighhhh. *To Author* Can I kill him or *To Readers* Anyone like to join me to Assassinate him?)

To my utter disbelief, he clutched his chest dramatically, like I'd just paid him the highest compliment. "Ahh, that felt good to hear," he said, grinning ear to ear.

"What did I say that you possibly liked?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at him.

"At least you trust me a little," he replied, his cheeky smile widening.

(Author : *To Editor* Look how happy he's.) (Editor : *Annoyed, Arm cross* bla bla bla)

I clenched my fists, my patience running dangerously thin. Half the things he said made no sense. All I wanted was to wipe that smug expression off his face.

"Who do you think I am, and why the hell should I trust a fucking asshole like you?" I snapped, my patience long gone.

He smirked, tilting his head slightly. "Oh, eres mi pequeña asesina sexy." (Oh, you're my little sexy assassin)

"What?" I barked. "Stop with your nonsense and tell me how the hell you're not injured. Who the fuck are you?" My frustration was boiling over.

He chuckled, resting a hand lazily on the car window. "Oh, so you really want to know who I am? Anything for my asesina," he said, leaning in with that infuriating grin. "I'm your man-your one and only man. Or, to put it better, your future husband."

(Editor : Woohh Wohh , kuch zyada nehi bol raha hai ye) (Isn't He is saying too much)

I nearly choked on my disbelief. "Husband?" I shot back. "Just fuck off! You're not even worthy of the rubber band in my hair, and you have the audacity to call yourself my husband?"

(Editor : Daammnnn)

"Oh, darling," he said, undeterred, "I know that in your heart, I'm already yours."

I narrowed my eyes. "Stay in your delusional little world, because it's the only place where any of this nonsense is remotely possible."

His grin widened, dangerously playful. "In Delulu, mi amor, even more has happened. You can't leave me there alone, you know. We're so... intimate there. You always want me by your side, like a flower and it's favorite bee. You want me to touch you like my hands are fire and your skin is craving to burn, You want me to kiss you like my lips are claiming every inch of your soul. you want me to suck-"

"Shut the fuck up!" I yelled, cutting him off before he could say anything more infuriating. "Shut your filthy mouth and get your disgusting hand off my car before I make you regret it!"

Instead of backing off, he laughed shamelessly. "Why so angry, darling? Don't worry, I'll stop sharing our Delulu moments if it makes you shy. But since you asked..." He winked, leaning even closer, "I could give you more details if you'd like."

(Editor : *Cover face with palm* Ohh god so shameless he's)

I clenched the steering wheel tightly, my blood boiling. All I wanted was to wipe that smug grin off his face permanently.

I couldn't take his nonsense anymore. My patience snapped as I swiftly pulled out a pocket dagger and lunged straight for his eye.

But, damn him, he was quick. He dodged by jerking his head back, though not completely unscathed. A thin line of blood appeared on the side of his left eye.

∆[ 𝙰𝚔𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚑𝚊'𝚜 𝚆𝚎𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚗 ]∆

"What's wrong, darling?" he asked, his voice calm but with a glint of something darker in his eyes.

I smirked, gripping the dagger tighter. "Oh, did you flinch? Are you afraid?"

Leaning slightly forward, I continued, "You're the one who said, 'Whenever you want to kill me, I'm ready.' So, what's the hesitation now? Well, if I aimed better, you wouldn't die-you'd just be blind." My smirk widened, daring him.

He shook his head with an infuriating grin, wiping the blood from his cheek with his thumb. "How beautifully cruel you are, my darling. But blind? No, no.. I can't let that happen."

His voice dropped an octave, and his gaze burned as it roamed over me. "If you ruin my eyes, how would I watch you, adore you? How would I admire every inch of your beautiful body?" His eyes lingered on me in a way that sent an involuntary shiver down my spine.

"And even though I've etched every detail of you in my mind, my heart, and my soul... seeing you once isn't enough. Each time I look at you, it feels like too little."

I clenched my teeth, ready to retort, but before I could, he raised his hand, stopping me. "It's okay, it's okay. I'll let you off today. Anyway, I don't like bothering you too much," he said, stepping back casually, like he owned the moment.

"Oh, don't pretend you're being magnanimous," I shot back, narrowing my eyes. "You're the one who enjoys this nonsense the most, as it's your favorite pastime. Don't think I can't see through you."

His laugh was soft but mocking. "Ah, darling, this is why I adore you. You know me so well. Look at you, figuring out my favorite pastime without me saying a word." He sighed dramatically, tilting his head. "Awww....how cute."

His hand rested on the car window, his chin propped up like he had all the time in the world. "That's why I keep saying it -you and I, we're a match made in hell. We're perfect for each other. Just say yes, and it's a done deal."

His voice brimmed with excitement, but his tone was maddeningly calm. It was as though he truly believed every ridiculous word coming out of his mouth.

I glared at him, my grip on the dagger tightening. A part of me wanted to end this right here and now. But another part of me... no, not yet.

"Look, I know exactly who my perfect match is, and I've chosen the right woman," he declared with unshakable confidence, his head held high in pride. I opened my mouth to respond, but he cut me off with a mischievous grin. "So, okay, now I'm going bye-bye. Mmuwah, my love."

He winked, blew me a kiss, and turned to leave, his steps deliberate and almost theatrical.

As he disappeared down the street, whistling a jaunty tune, his hands casually tucked into his pockets, something caught my eye. A protrusion from behind his pants-a stick, perhaps? No, it seemed heavier, larger. My mind churned as realization dawned.

The sound I'd heard when he fell earlier-of course, it had to be that object. That cheeky bastard! His mind works faster than I'd given him credit for.

He'd timed everything perfectly, lying down in just the right spot. If he'd been thinking clearly, he could have easily avoided the car. But no, he'd deliberately stayed put. The audacity of it all!

He must have relished the idea of me fretting over him, convinced he'd been hurt. What a scoundrel!

I let out a frustrated sigh, resting my head on the steering wheel as a tangled mess of thoughts swirled through my mind.

Why does this always happen to me?

The most maddening thing about him wasn't just his flirty, perverted nature-that, I could usually brush off. It was how he managed to burrow under my skin, throwing me off balance with his antics.

(Author : Aaann haann)

But what unsettled me most was my own reaction. Why did my body betray me so easily? Even now, I could feel the heat spreading through my veins, the memory of his words igniting something I didn't want to acknowledge.

Oh God! Why is this happening to me?

He's just another lustful man. I can't let myself fall for his silly tricks. I won't.

I've dated plenty of men over the years, whether for work or personal reasons. They all turn out the same-driven by lust, fixated on my body. Even the ones who proudly claimed to be different, who spoke of respecting women, would eventually reveal their true colors. If given the chance, they couldn't resist crossing the line. Married or not, it didn't matter.

(Author : Ek chance dene pe kya jata hai) (What's the problem in giving a chance?)

I know my power. I can effortlessly seduce men without even trying. It's an advantage in my line of work, a tool I've honed and wielded. Some would be willing to give up anything just for the chance to sleep with me.

And that bastard? He's no different. I see right through him. There's no way he genuinely likes me. I'm certain he just wants my body, and all this elaborate effort is just a game. He's banking on persistence-thinking that if he insists long enough, does things differently from others, and doesn't give up, I'll eventually give in.

But he's wrong. I'll never let him win. Never.

Yet, as much as I want to stay firm in my resolve, a strange unease stirs within me. I can't pinpoint what I'm feeling right now... or why. I sighed inwardly, trying to shake off the thoughts.

Honestly speaking, the way he looks at me, the way he speaks, the way his lips curl into that infuriating smile-it's not gentle, not even close. But it's different. I can't put my finger on how, but it doesn't align with the typical, sleazy arrogance I'm used to.

Still, I refuse to let myself fall into any delusions. I won't fall for him. NEVER. EVER. I hate him to the core. Ugh!

My thoughts were spiraling, my brain ready to burst from overthinking . No, I wouldn't waste any more energy on this. I told myself firmly: I HAVE NO FEELINGS FOR HIM.

This is just biology-hormones messing with me. My body has needs, and I'm at an age where that's natural. That's all this is. Nothing more. Maybe I should just date someone new, someone who actually fits my preferences.

But even as I tried to convince myself, my reasoning felt like an empty reassurance. A comfort I didn't fully believe.

No matter. One thing was clear: I couldn't afford to take any more risks with him. It would be better for everyone if I handled this myself.

I couldn't let this bastard linger in my life any longer. He was a threat, and I'd make sure to eliminate him before he could cause any more damage.

With that thought solidified, I left the spot, my mind already planning my next move. This time, I'd make sure he was gone for good.

°{ 𝙊𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙊𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙎𝙞𝙙𝙚 }°

(Author : Yahhhhh mere akash ka pov aageyga) (Yehhhh here comes my Akash's Point of view)

(Editor & Akash : *Giving Author Side Eyes*)

I was completely immersed in a video game at home, fingers moving swiftly over the controller as the action on the screen unfolded.

∆[ 𝙰𝚔𝚊𝚜𝚑 𝙼𝚒𝚗𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙷𝚒𝚜 𝙾𝚠𝚗 𝙱𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚜 ]∆

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed my phone vibrating on the desk, its screen lighting up repeatedly.

At first, I ignored it, too focused on the critical moment in my game. But the persistent buzzing refused to let up, drawing my attention. Finally, with a sigh, I glanced over and saw the caller ID.

Without hesitation, I put the controller down, removed my headphones, and rushed to answer.

In my hurry, I stubbed my toe on the chair, and a sharp jolt of pain shot through me. Wincing, I grabbed the phone and pressed it to my ear, my heart beating a little faster.

(Author : Woohh wooh calm down)

"Hellooo, Ashhh!" her voice came through the line, bright and sing-songy.

"Yeah?" I replied, trying to sound casual, though my thoughts were already racing. Yes, it was Shree. My friend and my...

Before I could finish that thought, she interrupted sharply, "Dude, where are you? Tell me right now!"

"I'm at home," I said, confused. "But what's going on? You sound excited."

"Oh, yeah, okay... wait, I'm coming over. Wait for me!" she announced before abruptly hanging up.

The line went dead, leaving me staring at the phone for a moment. She'd be here soon. I needed to prepare.

I turned off the video game, placed my headphones neatly on the desk, locked my room, and headed to the kitchen. Knowing Shree, she'd want food as soon as she arrived.

I opened the fridge, grabbing some chocolate and the food prepared earlier that morning. While the food heated in the microwave, I rummaged through the snack rack and selected her favorites.

Once everything was warmed up, I arranged the food and snacks neatly on the table in the living room, tidying up the area for her arrival.

A few minutes later, the doorbell rang. She was here.

I opened the door, and before I could say a word, she lunged at me, wrapping me in a tight hug.

It wasn't just a hug. She practically jumped on me, her excitement radiating.

"Yeeeaaaahhhh!!! Ashhhh! I'm soooo happyyyyy!" she squealed, her voice bubbling over with joy.

For a moment, I froze, my breath catching as her enthusiasm enveloped me. My heart raced, not just from her hug, but from her.

(Author : Ummm hmmm *teasing*)

I hugged her back lightly, patting her back in a comforting rhythm. When she finally let go, her words came tumbling out in a rush, her tone unusually animated.

"Doyouknowwhathappened? I'msohappybecauseofyourhelpNownownowhealsogotajobWhatwouldhavehappenedtomeifyouweren'tthere?"

["Do you know what happened? I'm so happy because of your help. Now, now, now - he also got a job! What would have happened to me if you weren't there?"]

(Editor : *Face Palm*)

I blinked, struggling to catch up as her rapid-fire words zipped past me like a whirlwind.

"Whoa, calm down, calm down! What's the hurry? I'm not going anywhere," I said, holding up my hands in mock surrender. "Why are you speaking like the 'Rajdhani Express'?"

She grinned and playfully smacked my butt. "Ahh, you don't know the feeling, Ash!"

Aishhh, this girl. Uff, whatever!

"First, come inside, then we'll talk..." I began, but before I could finish, she had already dashed inside.

"Ohhh yesssshhh, something smells delicious in here!" she exclaimed, her voice echoing as she ran straight to the living room.

(Author : Khana ke liye kabhi bolna nehi parta isko ) (we Never have to told her to about food)

I sighed, shaking my head, and closed the door behind me. Following her inside, I found her already sprawled on the sofa, her shoes abandoned haphazardly on the floor.

She sat cross-legged, happily munching on the food I'd arranged on the table.

I sat down beside her. "Alright, eat slowly and tell me what happened... and do it slowly this time."

She nodded enthusiastically, though her mouth was still full. "Hmmhh, so... I wanted to thank you because he got the job! All thanks to you!"

(Author : 'HE'?)

"Oh, I know," I said nonchalantly, leaning back against the sofa. "That's why I hacked the CEO's system. It wasn't exactly rocket science."

"Yesssss!" she squealed, clapping her hands. "You're the best! Thank God you helped him; otherwise, I don't think he'd have found a job with that pitiful face... uff!"

I hummed in response, glancing at her. She was talking about her ex-husband, Neil.

(Author & Editor : OHH)

Neil had been struggling to find job. His reputation was tarnished, mostly due to his mother's actions, and it seemed no one was willing to give him a chance.

Shree, being Shree, had insisted on helping him.

She discovered Neil had gone for an interview at a company, but the hiring manager had dismissed him outright before the interview even began. Neil, already fragile, had fallen into a spiral of sadness and self-doubt.

Naturally, Shree had been ready to march in and confront the manager herself. I had to stop her, convincing her to take a step back and think rationally.

After a few minutes of brooding silence, she turned to me with that unmistakable glint in her eye and a tight-lipped smile.

Oh, I knew what was coming.

She wanted my help. Of course, she did. Sighhh!!!

She explained her plan. She wanted me to hack into the company CEO's system, upload Neil's resume directly, and ensure the CEO saw it.

I had questioned her then, "Why are you helping him so much? He's your ex. He'll forget your kindness, just like his mother did."

But she wouldn't hear it.

"No, Ash, he won't, he's not like that," she said firmly. "I have faith in him. He's fragile, and I want to protect him."

I had rolled my eyes, unable to help myself. "Why? He's just another ex, and-"

(Author : *To Akash* You're jealous right?) (Akash : Obviously I'm)

"Don't," she cut me off sharply, her eyes narrowing. "Don't say anything bad about him, Ash. He's too innocent and naive for this world."

I sighed inwardly. Look who's talking.

"I know he's my ex-husband, but he's also my friend, and..." She paused mid-sentence and looked straight at me, her expression suddenly serious.

I blinked, slightly startled. "What?"

"What do you mean by 'another ex'?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

"I mean... another ex," I replied hesitantly.

(Editor : Ayeeiinn? Another?)

"Yeah, and what's that supposed to mean? Why another?" she persisted, planting her hands on her hips.

"Because he's your second ex," I said, trying to keep my tone neutral.

Her frown deepened as she tilted her head. "Wait. What? I don't have another ex-husband in my past!"

I sighed, bracing myself for the storm. "No, but you had a boyfriend. You know... an ex-boyfriend."

For a moment, her face froze in confusion, and then she erupted. "WHATTTTTTTT! I had a boyfriend in the past, and I didn't know that? What the fishhhhhh!"

(Editor : HUUHHHH)

Her hands flew to her cheeks, her expression the picture of exaggerated shock. I could only sigh, shaking my head.

Before I could say anything, she grabbed my shoulders and began shaking me like I was a rag doll. "How?! How, how?! Tell me now, or I'll beat you like you're my personal punching bag!"

Closing my eyes, I fought the urge to smirk and thought to myself, And yet, she claims to protect the weak. Then what does that make me?

(Author : Awww my poor baby)

"He was in your school," I said finally. Her grip loosened as she stopped shaking me, her puzzled expression betraying her blank memory.

"You forgot, didn't you?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

She scratched her head sheepishly, giving me an awkward smile. I sighed again. Yep, she'd completely forgotten about her first boyfriend.

I knew exactly how to jog her memory. "He used to bring you good food..."

Her face lit up before I could even finish. "Ohhhhh yesss yessss! I remember now! Oh yeah, hahaha!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands like a kid who'd just won a prize.

(Author : Seriously)

Figures. She only remembers the food.

She grinned mischievously and added, "You know what? I don't remember useless things, unless..."

"Unless it's connected to food," I cut her off, finishing her sentence.

She nodded, proud of herself, and patted my head like I was her pet. Then, without warning, she wrapped her arms around my neck, leaning in close with her best puppy-dog eyes.

"Okay, now tell me you'll help me. Peeewweeeesssss?" she pleaded, her voice dripping with sweetness.

Damn it! Yeah, she knew it. That expression always worked on me.

"Okay," I thought, resigning myself. What else could I do? I had to say yes. The moment I nodded, Shree began jumping around excitedly, her energy filling the room.

So, she was just telling me now that Neil got the job. But it would be better if Akansha didn't find out. I sighed internally.

Meanwhile, Now Shree happily dug into the food, moaning dramatically, "Ummmm...yahhh...mmmm...so yummy, nom nom," savoring every bite like it was the best meal of her life.

I watched her, raising an eyebrow. Did she even realize how inappropriate those noises were in front of a man? Probably not.

(Editor : cough cough)

After polishing off every last crumb, she washed her hands and mouth, then turned to me. "Where's Ansha?"

"Where can she be?" I replied, leaning back on the couch. "Probably out on a date."

"Again?!" Shree exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air. "But who is it this time?"

"XYZ Company's CEO," I said casually.

Her jaw dropped. "Heinnnn!!! That old man? What the heck! We had a meeting with him yesterday, and that guy's eyes... ugh, they're disgusting. He literally eye-fucked every girl in the room. He even stared at me! I got so mad and I accidentally broke the laptop," she said, finishing with an awkward smile.

"And..." I cut her off, "And you got nagged by my uncle for it."

She pouted like a child, nodding. "But why does Ansha only date old men? She could go for handsome guys too!"

I just shrugged. "Her choice, not ours."

"Fine, whatever." She waved it off. "But tell me this-when will you two be free? I want to go there; it's been so long since I've had a good fight," she asked, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

(Author : Ruk, tere handsome sir ko phone karti hoon) (Wait, I will call your Handsome Sir)

(Shreeja : Heyyyyy, don't you dare)

I leaned forward. "I don't know. Ansha needs to be free first. Anyway, hold on-I have something for you."

Curious, she watched as I went into my room and returned with a small box. Handing it to her, I said, "Here."

Her eyes lit up as she opened it. The moment she realized what it was, she screamed, "Aaaaaahhhhhh!!! Dubai's famous chocolate!!!"

∆[ 𝚂𝚑𝚛𝚎𝚎𝚓𝚊'𝚜 𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚎𝚡𝚌𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝 ]∆

She started jumping up and down like an overexcited bunny, her joy infectious. Watching her so happy made me smile, but the next moment, she caught me completely off guard.

In her excitement, she suddenly hugged me tightly and, before I could react, kissed my left cheek.

I froze. My brain short-circuited as I stood there, flustered and speechless.

Meanwhile, Shree carried on chattering happily, oblivious to my reaction. Whatever she was saying was lost on me. My mind was stuck on that unexpected kiss.

When her phone rang, she snapped out of her excitement and answered it. After a brief conversation, she turned to me.

"Ash, I have to go now. Work's calling. Let me know when Ansha is free, okay? Bye!"

She dashed out of the house, leaving me standing there, lost in thought.

What just happened?

As I sat there, a whirlwind of emotions churned within me. I had been harboring feelings for her for what felt like forever, but fear kept me silent. What if she ignored me? Or worse-rejected me outright? The very idea sent a shiver down my spine.

I couldn't stop thinking about the kiss she had planted on my cheek earlier. It was just a friendly gesture, I told myself, but deep down, I couldn't help but wonder: What if it meant something more? Ahh...of course it's not.

Actually, I wasn't even sure when my feelings for her had started. At first, it had just been friendship. But somewhere along the way, it became something more-something deeper.

It had taken me time to accept the truth, but I had fallen in love with her. Yet, every time I thought about confessing, doubt crept in. Would it ruin everything?

Months ago, during a work trip abroad with Akansha, I had made up my mind. I was going to propose her.

I had everything planned: a reservation at a renowned couples' restaurant, complete with romantic decorations, her favorite flowers, and food she loved. I had even rehearsed what I would say, imagining her reaction.

But then, everything fell apart.

We got an unexpected call and had to return early. When we arrived, Shree told us about her forced marriage. Worse, she had decided not to pursue a divorce because of her husband.

(Editor : Oh god poor Akash)

My heart sank. The hope I had clung to was shattered in an instant. I couldn't bring myself to say anything about my feelings. What would be the point?

The plans I had made felt meaningless now, and I didn't know what to do with them.

One evening, while I was aimlessly walking, lost in thought, I bumped into Aariyan. We greeted each other, but I could tell something was bothering him.

"Everything okay?" I asked.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Honestly? No. I've been trying to book a nice place to propose to my girlfriend, but everywhere is fully booked. Did everyone in the city suddenly decide to propose at the same time?"

I couldn't help but smile at his frustration. "Actually, I can help you with that," I said.

"Really?" His face lit up in surprise.

"Yes. I had booked a place for a proposal, and everything is already set up. You can use it-I don't need it anymore."

Aariyan's expression shifted from surprise to curiosity. "Wait... why was it already set up? Were you planning to propose to someone? Do you have a girlfriend?"

I quickly masked my emotions. "No," I said flatly. "Akansha needed help setting up a fake scenario, so I arranged it for her. But she doesn't need it now, so it's yours if you want it."

His eyes widened, but he didn't press further. Instead, he hugged me, thanking me profusely. After a bit more small talk, he left, clearly excited.

I stood there, staring at nothing, wondering if I would ever get another chance.

Now, with her divorce finalized, a flicker of hope stirred in my chest. Maybe this was my second chance.

But then reality hit me. My own situation was far from simple, and things could change in an instant.

What am I supposed to do now?

The question echoed in my mind, but no answer came.

The room was cloaked in darkness, the only light coming from the faint glow of a laptop screen. The First Unknown Person leaned casually against the sofa, his eyes fixed on the screen, anticipation flickering in his expression.

Beside him, another man spoke up cautiously, "Sir, I don't think he'll agree to the video call. He's refused every time before."

The first unknown person's lips tightened, his hand resting against his cheek as he frowned in thought. "We'll wait," he replied, his voice low and measured, betraying no emotion.

Minutes crawled by, the silence thick with tension. Then, at last, the laptop screen flickered, signalling an incoming call from 'The Fourth Unknown Person'.

The first unknown person straightened, his posture sharp and alert. Without sparing a glance at his companion, he waved him away.

He clicked to accept the call, his anticipation quickly replaced by confusion. The screen showed nothing but darkness.

"Sir, I can't see anything," he began, his tone tinged with impatience. "Can you-"

A chilling laughter interrupted him, low and menacing. It echoed from the other end of the call, sending a shiver down his spine. "Oh, ho," came a voice, deep and unhurried, "I forgot to turn on the light. Wait..."

The laughter faded into the sound of echoing footsteps. Then, slowly, the screen revealed a disturbing sight-a spinning wheel mounted on a pristine white wall.

On the wheel was a naked man, his body bound tightly, arms and legs splayed out in grotesque angles.

(Author : *Cover eyes* ye kya dekh liya meine aur mein yaha kya kar rahi hoon) (What have I seen and what am I doing here)

A blindfold covered his eyes.

Brightly colored markers had been used to scrawl crude, mocking points on various parts of his exposed body. The man was shaking violently, his terror palpable even through the screen.

The first unknown person's breath caught in his throat. He stared, unable to tear his eyes away from the macabre scene.

A voice broke the heavy silence, rich and heavy with menace. "So, tell me," it drawled, "Why are you so desperate to video call me?"

The first unknown person struggled to find his words. "B-but, sir, the camera... I mean, I couldn't see you."

A cold, mocking laugh echoed in response, sharp and biting. "When," the voice asked, "Did I ever say I would be the one on the other side of the camera?" The tone shifted, growing darker. "I granted you one wish-a video call with me. Are you now daring to ask for more?"

The first unknown person froze, his mind racing. The voice continued, now colder and cutting. "Well, if you're unsatisfied, I'll cut the call."

Panic gripped him. If the call ended, he knew it would be nearly impossible to get in touch again. He quickly stumbled over his words, "Oh, no, no, it's fine! We can... we can speak this way."

For a moment, there was only silence. Then, the ominous voice chuckled again, as if amused by the man's desperation.

The fourth unknown person's voice was calm and composed, a chilling contrast to the macabre scene playing out on the screen. "So, let's hear it. What was so important that you insisted on this conversation?"

The first unknown person hesitated, his gaze flickering uneasily to the grotesque image before him. "Uh, yes... I wanted to talk to you about 'That Thing'. I really-"

A blood-curdling scream cut him off.

A gold dart, glittering with diamond studs, whizzed through the air and struck the man bound to the spinning wheel. It pierced his hand with brutal precision, blood spurting out as the man convulsed in agony.

The fourth unknown person let out a soft chuckle. "Ah, I forgot to silence him. My mistake. Go ahead, speak again-I didn't quite catch that."

The first unknown person swallowed hard, his voice trembling. "I wanted to talk to you about 'that thing'. I really need it. I've asked you before, and... if you agree to give it to me this time, I'd greatly appreciate it."

As he spoke, a figure dressed in black stepped into view. Moving with eerie calmness, he covered the bound man's mouth, muffling his screams. The man's body continued to writhe, his pain visible in every strained muscle and twitch.

The first unknown person squinted, trying to make out the black-clad figure's face, but it was completely obscured. Only their ominous presence was clear.

Another gold dart sliced through the air, embedding itself in the man's stomach. The fourth unknown person's voice remained detached. "Don't waste your time trying to see his face. That's not me."

The first unknown person's throat went dry.

The fourth unknown person's tone shifted, becoming colder, calculating. "So, about 'this thing' you want... what's in it for me?"

Choosing his words carefully, the first unknown person replied, "I'll give you more money. Or, if you prefer, I can offer you the newly imported diamonds."

A burst of laughter erupted from the fourth unknown person-sharp, almost hysterical. But as quickly as it began, it stopped. His voice turned icy, dripping with disdain. "Do you think I'm some beggar on the street? That I'd give you something so precious for mere money... or your cheap little diamonds?"

The first unknown person scrambled to recover. "I didn't mean it like that. I can offer five times-"

"Five times?" The fourth unknown person cut him off, his words slicing through the air like a blade. "Are you trying to make a fool of me? How much do you think you can offer? A hundred million? A billion? Ten billion? Listen to me, pezz fente."

The insult landed with a sneer.

"I could buy everything you own right now-ten times over-without batting an eye. Your little hut, your possessions... even your so-called business. And yet, here you are, flaunting your laughable wealth in front of me? Pathetic."

As his words settled like frost, more gold darts flew through the air. Each struck a new part of the spinning wheel man's body with brutal precision.

With each hit, a digital screen lit up on the wall, tallying points with clinical efficiency. The numbers climbed higher and higher, as if mocking the first unknown person's desperation.

The fourth unknown person's voice dark with finality. "Now, tell me... why should I waste my time on you?"

The first unknown person's voice was measured, laced with caution as he began to speak. "Sir, my intention wasn't to offend you. I know your power, your influence. Perhaps my way of expressing it was wrong, and I apologize if I caused any offense. I only meant to offer the value of what I'm asking for."

The line went silent.

On the other end of the call, the fourth unknown person appeared to be preoccupied, the sound of darts slicing through the air echoing faintly. Seated out of view, his reactions were a mystery, leaving the first unknown person uneasy.

After a brief pause, the first unknown person gathered his courage and tried again, determination clear in his tone. "Actually, sir, I believe I have a better proposition for you. Something that might pique your interest."

Still no response. The fourth unknown person's attention remained fixed on his sadistic game.

Suddenly, a sharp, irritated sound broke the silence. Tch! The fourth unknown person clicked his tongue in annoyance. "Is he already dead? He's not moving anymore."

The first unknown person's gaze shifted to the wall. The man on the spinning wheel had stopped reacting, his body limp and lifeless, as if the torture had finally claimed him.

The first unknown person wondered if his word's had been heard by the fourth unknown person. Before he could ponder further, the black-clad figure reappeared, carrying a metal bucket filled with a murky, reddish liquid.

As the figure approached the wheel, the first unknown person's stomach churned. The liquid was a mixture of chili, salt and black pepper water.

With brutal efficiency, the figure flung the mixture onto the bound man. The effect was immediate. The man's body jerked violently, his muffled screams returning as the agony jolted him back into consciousness.

As the first unknown person watched, he thought about repeating his earlier words.

However, the fourth person instructed the black figure to untie the man's mouth. The man's voice, barely audible, was filled with screams and pleas for his life.

The fourth unknown person's lips curled into a sinister smile. "Ah, there we go. I thought my fun was over. Now, where were we?" His gaze turned back to the first unknown person. "You said you had a better option to offer?"

The first unknown person nodded quickly, desperate to make his case.

The fourth unknown person leaned back, a mocking sneer playing on his lips. "You're saying that like you're about to offer me your own body. Don't bother-I have no interest in an old man like you."

Panicking, the first unknown person stammered, "No, no, sir, nothing like that! I'm talking about something entirely different..."

Before he could continue, the fourth unknown person cut him off, his tone dripping with amusement. "Wait. Before you bore me with your sales pitch, let me make it more exciting for myself. You have until that man dies to convince me. A time limit always makes things more fun, don't you agree?"

The first unknown person nodded reluctantly, his heart pounding in his chest. His gaze flicked to the tortured man, who looked on the brink of death. For the first time in his life, he silently prayed for another man's survival.

Desperation took over, and he blurted out, "I think you've heard of 'Akansha' before. She's my person. In exchange for what I'm asking, you can sleep with her. Trust me-she's stunning, a real hot beauty."

(Author : WHAT THE HECK)

The fourth unknown person raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable.

"She's got everything you could want," the first unknown person pressed on, growing more confident. "A body that you'll never forget. I know you're... selective, and I'm certain she'll exceed your expectations."

For a moment, the fourth unknown person remained silent, his sharp gaze piercing through the screen. Then, with an unsettling calm, he responded, "Huh. It sounds like you've enjoyed her plenty yourself. And now, you're offering me your used trash? Do you take me for a fool?"

The first unknown person flinched and quickly interjected, "No, no, sir, you misunderstand! I've never touched her. She's too precious possession for me to use that easily. I've kept her reserved-exclusively for someone like you."

The fourth unknown person tilted his head, his expression impossible to read. After a moment, he simply said, "Hmmm. I'll think about it and let you know. For now..." He glanced at the spinning wheel, smirking. "Your time's up. He's dead."

Before the first unknown person could respond, the call ended abruptly.

Leaning back on the sofa, the first unknown person exhaled shakily, his mind swirling with dread and relief.

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