Chapter 7 : The Past Isn’t Done
359 Words
Morning – Suresh Realty Conference Room
The conference room buzzed with executives, designers, and media. Anaya walked in, poised and professional, but her heart flipped when she saw him already seated.
Karthik, in his element—confident, polished, commanding attention. Yet when his eyes met hers, he softened. No smirks, no charm—just that silent apology he’d been carrying.
They sat across from each other. The project pitch began. Karthik stayed quiet as Anaya led the presentation flawlessly. Even his father, Mr. Suresh, nodded in approval.
Afterwards, Karthik followed her out.
“You were incredible,” he said.
“Don’t get used to compliments,” she replied, smirking, but it didn’t reach her eyes.
“I meant every word.”
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That Evening – The Twist
Anaya reached home to an unexpected message.
From an unknown number.
> “Looks like you’ve moved on fast, Anaya. But tell me… does he know about what happened in Bangalore?”
Her blood ran cold.
The past. Rohit.
Her ex-fiancé. The one she’d run from.
She sat on the floor, breath shaky, staring at her phone.
Rohit had promised revenge the day she left him. She didn’t think he meant it.
Now, he was back.
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Flashback – Bangalore, Two Years Ago
Anaya stood in a bridal blouse and skirt, alone in a guest room. Outside, drums were playing, guests were arriving.
Rohit’s voice rang out—drunk and angry.
“You’ll do what I say, when I say it. After marriage, you don’t need to work. Enough of your independence nonsense.”
And in that moment, she knew—this wasn’t love. It was ownership.
She climbed out the window, bag in hand. No looking back.
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Present – Rooftop, Midnight
Anaya called Karthik. He came instantly.
She didn’t say much—just handed him the phone, the message still on the screen.
His jaw tightened. “Who’s Rohit?”
“My ex-fiancé.”
“Is he threatening you?”
She nodded.
“I’ll handle it.”
“No. This is my fight.”
He stepped forward. “You’re strong. But strength doesn’t mean fighting alone. Not anymore.”
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- Writer
