The busy city of Mumbai was filled with the cacophony of car honks, young professionals hurrying to work, and aspiring individuals seeking to kickstart their careers in the city of dreams. Dominating the skyline were towering skyscrapers, emblematic of Mumbai's status as home to numerous millionaires and billionaires.

Among these towering structures stood The Veracity Corporation, a beacon of prominence amidst the urban landscape. On this typical busy Monday, employees felt relieved in the CEO's absence for an interview, allowing them to work at their own pace without the usual rush. While known for his kindness, the CEO maintained strict standards when it came to work. He was the epitome of the perfect ideal to exist in the dictionary. People admire him for his meticulous nature and gentleman behaviour.

Since the Auto Expo event, there has been a frenzied demand for the CEO's interview as he was absent during the event. The entire public eagerly awaited his appearance, but unfortunately, didn't get to see him due to his engagement in private schedules. Consequently, people from all corners of Mumbai, other states, and even prominent individuals from abroad thronged to witness the interview.

The venue was the Avan ground near Malabar hills, Mumbai.

"We would like to extend a warm welcome to the CEO of India's most prestigious and impactful company. Ladies and gentlemen, let's give a thunderous applause to Mr Shubman Gill" the entire crowd erupted in cheers, chanting his name and holding up posters, while some fans even fainted upon catching a sight of him. He raised his hands, waving at everyone, and greeted with an inaudible 'Namaste'.

"Thank you very much, Mr. Gill, for sparing your valuable time! Congratulations on yet another win!" the interviewer praised him and signaled for the crowd to lower their volume for the interview.

"Namaste. Thank you, it's your unwavering support that drives us" he expressed his gratitude with his signature small smile, capturing the hearts of millions of fans.

"So, Mr Gill, many of your fans were intrigued by Veracity's sudden participation in the event. What was the underlying motive behind it?"

"To be frank, we didn't give much thought to anything. Our main aim was to highlight Veracity's convenience and establish a connection with people's expectations. Veracity S-Class I-77 GIX was just a preview of our preparation for the upcoming Hanover's fair" the entire crowd collectively gasped in amazement at his response, followed by whistles and chants of praise.

"We're immensely proud to have such an exceptional individual like you, Mr Shubman. Given the magnitude of the global event, how do you handle the pressure? You're essentially carrying the weight of the nation on your shoulders."

"While it's undoubtedly challenging, the unwavering support from both India and fans worldwide serves as a constant source of inspiration, propelling us to surpass our perceived limitations" he responded, prompting another eruption of cheers from the crowd.

"Can you describe your approach when making significant financial decisions. What criteria guides your selection of products or services to invest in?"

"I prioritize factors such as ROI, alignment with company objectives, market demand, and scalability. Each financial decision is preceded by meticulous research and analysis. That's all that we do."

"Mr. Gill, your substantial contributions to educational initiatives, support for the elderly, and active involvement in related events haven't gone unnoticed. Fans are curious: how do you manage to carve out time from your busy schedule to attend to these engagements?"

"It's something that surprises me too. I prioritize these engagements because they bring me peace of mind. They don't see me as a celebrity, but as part of their family. That's why I make time for them" he explained, met with thunderous round of applause from the audience. He was indeed their beacon of inspiration.

"Wow! It's no wonder why we admire you so much, Mr Gill. Given your hectic schedule, we'd like to wrap up with one final question. What advice do you have for future aspirants aiming to become CEOs?"

"I extend my full support and cooperation to face the challenges ahead. Let's collaborate to build upon the solid foundation laid by our predecessors, while honoring the experience and dedication of our workforce. Additionally, amidst our pursuit of growth and profitability, let's prioritize the well-being of our employees and loved ones" his response stirred many, inspiring them to strive for success and follow his path to becoming a successful CEO.

"We sincerely thank you once again, Mr Gill, for generously sharing your time with us. Best wishes for your upcoming endeavors at the event" the interviewers exchanged pleasantries and shook hands with him.

Shubman exited the venue, flanked by his bodyguards, greeting everyone with an unwavering smile.

"Mom, one day I'll achieve success like Shubman Gill."

"He's truly a gentleman."

"Sir! Are the rumors about you and Sara true?"

"Marry me Mr Gill!!"

Despite the barrage of questions and proposals from the crowd, he gracefully ignored the controversial ones and waved one last time before stepping into his Veracity New Generation G-23 sportscar.

Indeed! Mr Shubman Gill was one of a kind.

Indeed..

-

"Shubman, are you out of your mind? How could you let that bitch go? You're aware of the dangers, right!" Abhishek exclaimed, his words dripping with aggression. Shubman tightened his grip on the glass of whiskey as the other person raised his voice.

"I didn't ask for you to yell,
" Shubman retorted, his tone icy as he stood near the window, facing the skyscrapers outside the CEO's office, his gaze fixed on the towering structures. Both men were deep in contemplation.

Abhishek slammed his hand on the table as he rose from the couch, advancing towards Shubman with a frown.

"Are you really asking me not to worry when that slut could easily expose your identity to anyone?" Abhishek said, chugging onto his whiskey as if to calm some nerves.

"He wouldn't dare, Abhi" he sneered, malice dripping from his voice as he turned to Abhishek with a small smile before hurling the remaining whiskey at his face. Abhishek's expression shifted to one of bewilderment, his features contorted with vexation as he wiped his face clean.

"You bastard! I'm through caring for you! Don't give me that fake smile, you moron! And if you got balls, rid yourself of that slut!" Abhishek snapped furiously, only to feel the other shatter the whiskey glass in his hand, causing blood to trickle down his palm.

Abhishek's eyes widened as he gulped hard, realizing he had messed things up pretty badly. He lowered his head, a gesture of submission. The other deadpanned, dropping the pieces of broken glass onto the rug, then shifted his gaze from Abhishek back to the window.

"What about that detective?" he asked, his voice exuding a composed demeanor.

"I disposed of his body, along with the others, in fluoroantimonic acid" Abhishek replied almost instantly, careful not to further anger him. Abhishek wasn't afraid of his best friend, but Shubman.
Yes, Shubman, whom he saw as his best friend, and the one he was talking to now, were complete opposites.

"I'll be killing him tonight, don't worry, Abhi" he confirmed, still not facing Abhishek. Abhishek walked over to him and offered a cigarette, which he accepted, placing it near his lips and lighting it with a lighter, taking huge drags as if to calm his nerves.

Abhishek gazed at him for a moment before speaking, "You look a bit better, sort of more alive after having sex. Maybe you should switch to having sex instead of those narcotics" he suggested, patting his shoulder in encouragement. Shubman gave him an unreadable expression as he ignored him, taking long drags from his cigarette.

"How about Sara? She's been chasing you ever since you became a CEO" Abhishek continued, trying his best to persuade him to meet her.

"She isn't capable of matching my drive" Shubman said matter-of-factly, blood still dripping down his wrist, which he ignored as if it were merely a scratch.

"Huh? You're hopeless when it comes to guys and girls. I bet she's better than that slut you fucked" Abhishek scoffed, rolling his eyes as he wiped his drenched shirt with tissue paper. Ignoring Abhishek as usual, he settled into his chair, immersing himself in the pile of files. Abhishek shrugged before handing him the file containing selected designs for their upcoming project.
_______________________________________

Ishan felt his senses blurring as he meandered along the pavement toward his home. He knew he could've asked Mr. Gill to drop him directly at home, but he didn't want to face him anymore. He stumbled over the smallest stone, in too much pain to stabilize himself. Unable to hold his body any longer due to the pain, he nearly collapsed until a pair of hands caught him. Before he could fully register what was happening, darkness enveloped his vision, rendering him unconscious.

Ishan's pov
As I slowly open my eyes, the harsh glare of fluorescent lights assaults my senses. My surroundings blur into focus, revealing the sterile walls of a hospital room. Panic sets in as I realize I'm lying in a hospital bed, surrounded by the steady hum of machines and the faint beeping of monitors.

I try to move, but something holds me back-a tangle of noodles wtf sorta tubes and wires tethering me to the bed. A sharp pang of fear shoots through me as I follow the lines to where they disappear beneath my cardigan, connecting to this unfamiliar place.

I glance around, searching for answers in the sea of medical equipment. My heart races as I piece together the fragments of memory-him, the night, streets and fading into darkness.

What am I doing here?

As I attempted to sit upright, a sharp pain in my abdomen forced me back down. Fuck, it hurt like a heartbreak. Ignore me guys! I act crazy when I'm scared. Missing work all day yesterday wasn't ideal; Jane would definitely be waiting for my ass. Working overtime with this pain? Not an option. Who brought me here anyway? Maybe it was Mayank. I hope so.

The doors to my room swung open, revealing a stranger. Tall, lean, with brown skin and a stern expression, he didn't look friendly. I frowned at his sudden appearance as I tried sitting upright, but before I could say anything, he grabbed my hand, stopping me from sitting up. Irritated, I pulled my hand away, turning my head so as to not look at him.

"Are you alright?" His voice was surprisingly gentle, considering his gorilla-like appearance. I glanced at him briefly before turning my head away. I was too irritated to meet a dick-I mean man.

'sir phod dunga iska'

Frustrated and unable to move my hands because of the wires, I kicked out in his direction. He grunted in pain before examining me closely.

"Who did this to you?" His shock was evident as he noticed the bite marks scattered across my body. I wasn't in the mood to talk about it. I was just glad to be away from that sadistic pishach (vampire), and I vowed to never cross paths with him again.

I ignored his question and began examining my nails as if they were the most interesting thing in the world.

"Fine. At least have something to eat" he urged, and my stomach growled in agreement. The second hand embarrassment I felt was palpable; I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks as shame washed over me. But when I turned to him, all I saw was a bowl of plain porridge on the table and my expression contorted into one of disappointment. There was no way I was touching that.

"Zeher kha lunga par ye nahi khaaunga." I mumbled in disappointment.

Maybe my reaction was too obvious, but his chuckle only fueled my annoyance.
mukka maarke daat tod dunga iska
I swore under my breath. Ignoring him with a disdainful 'hmph', I wondered why I always seemed to encounter such assholes.

Suddenly, he placed a warm parcel on my lap, leaving me utterly perplexed by his unexpected gesture. Slowly, I peeked inside the parcel to see what it contained, but hesitated to touch it.

"Aloo paranthe hain, kha le" he said with a smile gracing his gorilla-like face. And, dear God, does humiliating me always seem like a good idea to you? My stomach growled in hunger, and I placed my hand on it, feeling embarrassed to even look at him.

He urged me to eat some, but hold on-HOW COULD I ACT SO DUMB JUST BECAUSE OF ALOO PARATHA? He's a stranger, not Mayank, to be offering me free food and medication like this. And honestly, I'm in no position to pay with my body. Bhai, I'm an adult and not a kid, I know how to act. I covered my smile so as to not drool on the food as I faked a cold expression on my face but the alluring smell of paranthe and sweetened curd was not helping it.

Vaise bhi, kal pure din I mean dopahar se kuch nahi khaya. Bhaad me gaya! I'm gonna eat it

"What if you poisoned it?" I asked using all of my brain that I had to look like I'm not someone he should mess with. He tried to suppress his laugh as he shook his head in denial to my question. He sighed before unwrapping the parcel and having a small portion of the paratha himself and then placed it near my mouth motioning me to have it.

What the hell? Why is he feeding me, I'm not a kid

I gave him a skeptical glance before pushing his hands away and taking a bite myself.

"I don't make such stupid moves and especially not with a cutie like you" he remarked, flashing a smile that hinted he had indeed brushed his teeth today. I enjoyed my breakfast and believe me I felt much better after having it. Just give me food and I'll do practically anything.

But you know, it was uncomfortable, like having a man who resembles King Kong sitting in front of your ventilator, staring at you as if you've killed his children. Wait-
Why did I eat that? I don't have a single penny on me.
I gave a nervous smile, trying my best to make this man forget about the charges and food. I flashed my prettiest smile (fake) and innocently blinked my eyes at him. He was confused for a moment until he straightened his posture and stretched his hand out.

"I'm Rahul, nice to meet you. And you are?" he asked, and I slapped his hand away. I'm in no mood for introductions; I just wanna go home.

"I won't ask you to pay me" he said and my eyes curved into a bright smile.

"Thank you-" I was about to express my gratitude before he shushed me. What the hell?

"But" he added, making me look at him, and I sighed.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not in a position to offer you anything for a night" I informed, but it seemed that he was taken aback by my reply. I could see him fidgeting; perhaps it offended him.

"No, I want to know your name" he stated, being straightforward in his conduct as he again stretched his hand towards me, and I accepted it by shaking hands.

"I'm Ishan, better known as Butterfly in the Sin City" I introduced myself, and he appeared as though he wanted to say something but remained silent.

"You're-" he began, but I interjected.

"Prettier than your girlfriend, I know" I remarked sassily, flipping my hair confidently, fully aware of my own worth. He chuckled in response, his curious gaze lingering on me.

"Well... I don't have a girlfriend, and you're indeed pretty" he said, causing me to shift uncomfortably at his compliment. It's not that it isn't true; it's just unexpected from a stranger. I avoided his gaze and started doodling on the bedsheet. Sensing my unease, he sighed before continuing,
"They've given you painkillers and prescribed some medication, which I have here. You're good to go, so wipe off that frown" he said, and a toothy smile spread across my face as I looked at him and nodded in agreement. He then turned and called for the doctor

I observed him engaged in a conversation with the doctor, their gestures hinting at a possible disagreement regarding my discharge. As they approached me, the atmosphere in the room became more tense. The doctor began disconnecting the wires, glancing at me and then at Rahul.

-

"Mr. Oberoi, I'm sorry to intrude into your personal matters, but it's important to restrict your sexual activities with Rahul. Your body appears to react sensitively to such interactions" the doctor advised, maintaining his professional demeanor while reviewing the reports.

Ishan blinked in confusion at the mention of "Oberoi" puzzled by the doctor's use of the surname.

Wtf. Kripya sharab pikar patient ka ilaaj na kare

He sat there, utterly bewildered, as the doctor's words washed over him, incomprehensible and distant. He didn't understand a word the doctor said. All he knew was that he was Ishan, not Oberoi.

"I apologize, doc. We were just trying new things, but I see it got out of hand. I'll handle the situation from here. Thank you" Rahul responded before Ishan could interject. The doctor nodded, offering a professional smile as he handed the reports to Rahul.

"You're welcome, Mr. Rahul," the doctor said before embracing him in a friendly hug.

"Your boyfriend is truly very pretty, Rahul. Uska dhyan de aur apni havas par lagam de" the doctor whispered, to which Rahul simply smiled and nodded in agreement.

"Let's go, darling" Rahul said, gently wrapping his arm around Ishan's waist as they exited the hospital room.

-

"What the actual type of fuckery were you doing there? And who's Oberoi?" Ishan bombarded him with questions as the other just held him firmly by his waist.

"I'll only answer your questions if you answer mine" Rahul replied, while Ishan could only roll his eyes in response.

"I just want to go home!" Ishan yelled in frustration as he tried to pry Rahul's hand from around his waist.

"Who did this to you, Ishan?" Rahul asked calmly, so as not to frighten him. Ishan hesitated before deciding to come clean.

"You see, Rahul, I'm a prostitute. I sell my body to clients for money. The client I was with yesterday was a bit sadistic, that's all" Ishan responded, defending Mr Gill for some reason, perhaps out of fear.

"Regardless, Ishan, that doesn't justify how you were treated" Rahul said, and Ishan grew increasingly annoyed with each passing second. His abdomen was in better condition, but his head ached from all of his dumbass questions. Ishan wasn't used to using so much of his brain. He needs food and sleep for it.

"I'm sorry, Gorilla" he said, and before Rahul could react, he fell to his knees, clutching his crotch and wincing in pain. He had kicked Rahul in the crotch and was now power walking ahead of him.

"If you still want me, come tonight to the club" Ishan said with a wink, blowing a kiss from his hand to Rahul before turning and continuing to walk home.

Until Rahul could intervene, Ishan had already disappeared into the distance.

"I need to know who did this to you, Ishan" he said as he rose, brushing the dust off his pants. He gazed towards the direction Ishan had fled and was about to follow him when a call interrupted him.

"He's dead, Mr. Oberoi."

"Mhm."

With that, the call ended.
_______________________________________

[23:00]
The Sin City club

"What do you mean?" Ishan's voice trembled as disbelief washed over him, causing him to take a step back. In front of him stood a woman, hurling clothes his way, her sudden change in demeanor catching him off guard.

"The rule applies to everyone, you slut! I tried to overlook your absence for a day, but you've taken advantage of my kindness. Because of you, we were almost on the verge of being sued" she spat out, venom lacing her words as she slowly advanced, prompting Ishan to retreat.

"I understand you're upset, but how does this involve me? Please, don't drug me. I swear I won't miss my shift again" Ishan pleaded, fear thick in his voice.

"Your filthy rich admirers missed you too much and threatened to destroy our business if we didn't bring you back" she explained, signaling for two of her men to hold Ishan firmly as she approached with an injection in hand.

"I'm sorry, sweetie, but you've crossed the line. This will ensure you behave as the perfect slut you are and earn us some money" she said, rolling up his sleeves as she drew near.

Ishan fought against them, using all his strength to resist. He cried out for help, but there was no one nearby to aid him.

"Stop! Please, don't do this! I'll work, I promise... Please, Jane, stop!" he pleaded, tears streaming down his face. He struggled in their grasp, exerting every ounce of strength in a desperate attempt to break free and flee from them. Ishan understood all too well that once the drug took hold, he'd become a puppet to anyone's desires. He couldn't believe that the woman he once trusted and respected could speak to him in such a degrading manner and subject him to such cruelty.

He screamed as if there were no tomorrow, but his cries were drowned out by the forceful hands that pinned him to the ground, Jane's henchmen holding his limbs in place while she prepared to inject the needle into his veins.

Ishan knew it was the end for him, with no hope of escape. His fate seemed destined to be twisted and cursed, and he could only blame it on his ill fortune. With tears streaming down his face, he closed his eyes, mentally preparing himself for whatever horrors awaited him.

As the liquid coursed through his veins, Ishan felt a sense of dread wash over him. Jane stood up, gesturing for her men to release him, leaving Ishan kneeling on the ground, his spirit broken.

"Change into your attire and make your way to the red area immediately! You have guests to attend to" Jane barked before striding off, abandoning Ishan to the dimly lit backside of the club.

How he wished Abhishek could have come to his aid. But it was Monday, a busy workday, and there was no way his friend would intervene. Ishan could only lament his plight and blame it to the cruel hand of fate.

Before the drug took full effect, Ishan understood the gravity of his situation and the necessity to comply with Jane's commands, unless he wants to face consequences.

-

Currently playing: Fill the void by the weeknd, lily-rose depp

The entire club was mesmerized by the sight before them, feeling as though they were among the fortunate few to witness such a spectacle. It was a rare occurrence, and indeed the first time, that Ishan was compelled to dance on the pole. Amidst all the other prostitutes, he stood out as the most captivating.

He adorned himself in a form-fitting jumpsuit, its fabric clinging to his every contour, shimmering under the crimson glow of the club's lights. The plunging neckline teased with allure, while the jumpsuit accentuated his figure with each graceful movement.

Draped in a bold shade of crimson, he confidently spun around the pole, his red ankle boots adding to his allure. With bold red lips enhancing his overall appeal, many in the crowd found themselves unable to resist their desires, though they attempted to resist the temptation of purchasing a night with him.

-

♪I don't wanna decide things for myself, on my own

Rahul had never planned to step foot inside a strip club, but curiosity drove him there, all for the sake of knowing more about the boy. Undeniably, the boy possessed a striking beauty that transcended traditional gender norms, leaving Rahul conflicted about passing judgment based solely on appearances. Gathering his courage, Rahul took a deep breath before crossing the threshold into the club.

Once inside, he was engulfed by a room bathed in red light, permeated by the overpowering scent of alcohol and sex. Pushing his way through the crowd, Rahul's heart raced in anticipation of the cause of it.

Upon witnessing, he froze, as if all the air had been sucked out of the room, confronted by a sight that left him breathless. There, amidst the swirling chaos, stood Ishan, the object of Rahul's fascination. It seemed as though Ishan was the only vibrant color in an otherwise monochrome world.

♪Finally for the first time I'm alone

As Ishan locked eyes with him, Rahul felt a pang of unease. Something was off about Ishan's demeanor; his gaze was hooded, and was covered in sweat. Rahul watched apprehensively as Ishan began to climb down the podium to approach him.

♪You're probably having good times with a bad boy

Ishan made slow and seducing steps towards Rahul who tried his best to resist the temptation of having him. He could sense the crowd's envy eyes on him as Ishan focused solely on him. Rahul gulped hard trying to maintain his composure as he chose to avert all the sinful thoughts.
Ishan enveloped Rahul's neck, swaying his hips to the sensual music, mouthing the lyrics, and locking his eyes with seduction.

♪Seems I've got a choice to make

Ishan lip-synced the lyrics not breaking the eye-contact, grinding himself on Rahul. At this point, Rahul couldn't fight the urge anymore as he grabbed ishan by his hips, pulling him closer as he swayed along with him being completely lost in desire. Only then did Rahul notice Ishan's tear-stained red hooded eyes as if he had been crying and he understood. Ishan was sedated.

♪Be my voice and I choose you to fill the void

He was utterly shocked. How could Ishan be sedated just to entertain those old men? Ishan grasped his head and drew him closer, his lips grazing Rahul's left ear.

"Ra-rahul, please don't let them touch me. They drug-ged me" Ishan struggled with his words. Rahul seethed with anger, but safeguarding Ishan took precedence over confronting the club handlers. Rahul pulled away, only to feel Ishan rubbing against him, deliberately seeking friction against him. Rahul realized it was a test of his morals as he closed his eyes, avoiding Ishan, and started to exit the club. As he turned to leave, a blow struck his head abruptly, and darkness enveloped him before he could react.

"RAHUL!!!" Ishan's cry echoed with horror, tears streaming down his face as he blamed himself for the situation. He knew there was no turning back. Jane's henchmen knew about Ishan's ploy, they were suspicious of Rahul's sudden appearance in the club, as a result, had struck him to clear the path.

But Ishan refused to surrender. Despite fate seeming to conspire against him, he wouldn't allow them to force themselves upon him. He made a desperate attempt to break through the crowd, each step a battle against the pressing bodies, until he finally reached the club's exit, a glimmer of hope flickering within him. Fueled by anxiety, he turned abruptly, intending to check on the henchmen, only to collide with a firm chest.

He shut his eyes tightly, bracing himself for the worst, anticipating the looming presence of one of Jane's men. His body flinched involuntarily as a robust arm enveloped his waist. With trepidation, he tentatively lifted his gaze, only to be met with the unexpected sight of the man who held him captive.

"Mr G-gill"

_______________________________________

—🦋—

I apologise for the late update!
I understand there might be a lot of questions, but trust the process, sweethearts. It's going to be your guilty pleasure.

Let me know your views in the comments!