Chapter 8 : Storms in the Silence
361 Words
Two Days Later – Anaya’s Office
Anaya hadn’t heard from Rohit again, but the unease lingered like a storm cloud. She buried herself in work, pretending nothing was wrong. But Karthik noticed. He always did.
He waited until lunch, then walked over.
“Come with me.”
She blinked. “Now?”
He nodded. “It’s important.”
She followed, reluctantly.
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Private Lounge – A Surprise Meeting
Karthik held the door for her. Inside sat a woman in a simple cotton saree, warm smile, tired eyes.
“This is Mrs. Menon,” Karthik said. “She works in legal. She’s helped women in cases like yours.”
Anaya stiffened. “I didn’t ask for this.”
“No. But you needed it.”
Mrs. Menon spoke gently. “You don’t have to press charges. But we can ensure he doesn’t contact you again. This can be confidential. Controlled.”
Anaya swallowed hard. The offer wasn’t just legal—it was emotional. Safety wrapped in choice.
“I’ll think about it,” she whispered.
Karthik nodded. “That’s enough.”
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Later That Night – Karthik’s Apartment
She showed up at his door, unannounced.
He opened, surprised. “Anaya?”
She didn’t speak—just walked in, curled up on his couch.
“I didn’t know who else to be with right now,” she said softly.
He sat beside her, not touching. Just there.
“You don’t have to say anything,” he murmured. “I’ve got you.”
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Midnight Conversation
The city glowed below. They sat in silence until she spoke.
“I used to think love was butterflies. The kind that makes you nervous.”
He looked at her.
“And now?”
“Now I think love is... peace. The kind that makes you breathe easier.”
He reached for her hand. “Then let’s build that peace together. Even if the past knocks again.”
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But the Past Knocks Loudly
The next morning, Anaya’s phone buzzed again.
A photo.
Her and Karthik. On the beach. Holding hands.
“Nice moment. Shame if it reaches his father.”
Her hands trembled.
Rohit wasn’t done.
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- Writer
