Chapter 22: 20. "You lost me" - a dreadful truth

English is not my first language. This chapter may contain many grammatical errors. Please ignore them and enjoy the chapter. Don't forget to give your beautiful comments.

More than 6.6k words......

Do hit the ⭐ star button and add this novel in your library or reading list

Without any further bak bak lets proceed with the twentieth chapter of " Will I ever find my true love

Target - 10 votes plzzzz...

This time a big chapter for my lovelies......

______________________________________________________________________________________

A few days passed.

Today Ruhani was thinking as if something was wrong with her. Something is going to happen which she will not be able to manage. Ruhani was feeling very bad as she couldn't do anything . Ruhani was feeling a pang in her chest as if someone is trying to torture her to much. Ruhani was feeling very tired and unwell . She moved towards the balcony to take some fresh air

As Ruhani stepped onto the balcony, the evening air wrapped around her like a soothing blanket, contrasting sharply with the turmoil brewing inside her. The cityscape stretched before her, twinkling lights mingling with the dusky sky, but the beauty felt distant, overshadowed by her unease.

She leaned against the railing, trying to steady her breath, each inhale filled with the crispness of the evening but also the weight of her anxiety. Thoughts raced through her mind-worries about work, relationships, and the nagging feeling that something was about to change in her life, something she wasn't prepared for. The pang in her chest intensified, not just from her emotional burden but from an overwhelming sense of impending doom.

Ruhani closed her eyes and focused on the sounds around her-the rustle of leaves, distant laughter, the low hum of traffic. Each sound was a reminder that life continued around her, even as she felt suspended in her own spiral of distress. She tried to ground herself, recalling moments of clarity from her past, instances where she overcame adversity.

Yet, tonight felt different. Tonight, she felt an inexplicable heaviness, as if a storm was brewing just out of sight, waiting to unleash itself when she least expected it. Taking a deep breath, she opened her eyes, hoping that by confronting her feelings rather than avoiding them, she could regain some sense of control. The first step, she reminded herself, was to acknowledge her fears. Perhaps by doing so, she could transform the lingering shadows into something she could face head-on.

On the other side.

As Akash walked down the lonely street, the evening air hung thick with silence, occasionally broken by the rustle of leaves. The glow of the streetlights flickered intermittently, creating a sense of isolation. Akash was lost in his thoughts, unaware of the figure lurking in the shadows behind him.

Suddenly, he felt a rush of motion as someone approached swiftly from behind. Before he could react, a handkerchief was pressed firmly against his face, soaked in a potent chemical odor. It was chloroform-an anesthetic that would quickly send him into unconsciousness. Akash instinctively attempted to shout or cry out, but the muffled fabric enveloped his senses. Panic surged through his veins, urging him to fight, but his body began to betray him as the sedative coursed through.

The moment felt surreal. His surroundings blurred and the weight of the handkerchief dragged him into the darkness. As he struggled against the impending unconsciousness, snippets of thought flitted through his mind: Who was this? What did they want? Would anyone notice he was missing?

Akash regained his consciousness the first sensation he experiences is an overwhelming haze in his mind. The remnants of chloroform linger, leaving him dazed and confused. He blinks slowly, trying to clear the fog from his brain, but the darkness around him only amplifies his disorientation. The air is cool and damp, and he notices a musty smell, the kind that often clings to old, forgotten spaces. It takes a moment for him to fully grasp his surroundings, and panic begins to set in as he realizes he is lying on a cold, hard floor.

As he shifts slightly, he becomes acutely aware of the uncomfortable restraints binding his wrists. Panic surges through him as he jerks his arms instinctively, trying to free himself, only to find that the bindings are tight and unyielding. The roughness of the material against his skin adds to his sense of helplessness. He looks down, his heart racing, and sees the way his hands are tied together behind him - a crude knot that seems impossible to untie. In that moment, the weight of his situation crashes over him: he is trapped in a basement, alone and at the mercy of unseen captors.

As the heavy gate of the basement creaked open, a rush of light flooded the dim space, momentarily blinding Akash. Shadows danced around him as the silhouette of a girl stepped through the entrance. He squinted against the brightness, struggling to adjust his vision. Coupled with his fear and disorientation, he could hardly process what was happening as the girl approached. The air felt charged with tension, and he instinctively held his breath, unsure of her intentions.

As she stepped into the low light of the basement, the Akash's heart raced faster. He could make out her figure-a slender frame with disheveled hair that fell around her face. She wore a faded hoodie, and her demeanor was wary yet curious. He felt a flicker of hope at the sight of another person, but the encroaching darkness overshadowed that spark. He was acutely aware that the very fact she had entered the basement could mean anything-from a willingness to help him to a possible connection to whatever fate awaited them both.

When she came closer, the light shifted, allowing him to see her face more clearly for the first time. The moment turned into one of sheer astonishment. Her features were familiar, revealing a blend of determination and fear that mirrored his own. His breath caught in his throat as realization struck him like a lightning bolt: she was Ruhani's sister.

Akash was shocked to see the girl who was sitting just in front of him on the chair and was staring at him.

Akash 's through dried up and he managed to say " Anu...shree...., youuu.....". Anushree 's lips curled up into a devil smile.

Akash's mind raced as he tried to piece together what had happened. He thought of Anushree, the girl who had blended into the edges of his life, her seemingly innocent demeanor now revealing a darker reality. He had seen her around-always friendly, always smiling-but now that smile haunted him. Why had she done this? What did she want? The cold sweat on his skin sent a shiver down his spine as nightmares of what could happen next spiraled through his mind.

As he sat there, trapped in a state of uncertainty and fear, Anushree stepped in, her silhouette sharp against the brightness. She appeared calm and collected, as if she were simply paying a visit, while Akash felt a surge of anger, confusion, and dread.

"What do you want from me?" Akash demanded, forcing himself to sound braver than he felt, but his voice wavered, betraying his fear.

Anushree's lips curled into a small, almost amused smile. "It's not about what I want from you, Akash. It's about what you've taken from me. You're going to understand soon enough."

"What have I done?" he replied, incredulous and desperate. "I haven't done anything against u ! Let me go!"

Her eyes sparkled with a mix of conviction and madness that sent a shiver down his spine. "That's the problem, Akash. You never really saw me, did you? You were always so busy with your life, your friends, your dreams... you never noticed me. You never understood my plan."

Akash took a deep breath and said in a. Calm tone " Anushree today I want to tell you the truth. I love Ruhani. I am really in love with her... - I can't continue this drama with you . I agree i first hated her but now I love her, more than anything".

Anushree smirked in his reaction and ordered her men " Open his hands and drop him home carefully " .

Akash was shocked by the sudden change in her sudden change in her behaviour . At first Anushree kidnapped her and when he told her the truth, instead of torturing him she was letting him go.

After Anushree's unexpected act of letting him go, Akash was engulfed by a tumult of emotions. Initially, relief flooded through him, washing away the fear and tension that had tightened around his chest during his captivity. The weight of being a prisoner in a situation that felt surreal was finally lifted, and he could breathe deeply again. However, this joy was tempered by confusion; he couldn't shake the feeling that despite his freedom, something vital had been broken between them. The trust that once defined their relationship had been shattered, leaving him grappling with the implications of Anushree's drastic actions.

As he walked away from the scene, Akash found himself reflecting on the complex interplay of anger and compassion that had transpired. He felt a profound sadness for Anushree, realizing that her choice to kidnap him must have stemmed from deep-seated pain and fear. He was acutely aware that her actions were not just born from malice but rather from a twisted sense of betrayal she felt. This realization sparked a surge of empathy within him, prompting him to consider how he could have better understood her struggles and emotions. The burden of "what could have been" weighed heavily on him, as he questioned if there were signs he had missed and if he could have prevented the situation from escalating.

Despite the turmoil, a part of him felt a lingering attachment to Anushree. He thought about all the moments they had shared, the laughter and the conversations that had once made their bond feel unbreakable. The stark contrast between their past and present left him feeling hollow and wistful. Akash couldn't help but fear that the darkness of this moment would overshadow all the good they had built together. Deep inside, he hoped that this experience would somehow become a catalyst for healing, rather than a definitive end to their connection.

As he made his way through the quiet streets, Akash's mind raced with questions about what came next. Would Anushree seek him out to explain further? Could they find a way to rebuild what had been lost, or was their friendship irreparably damaged? The uncertainty gnawed at him, filling him with a restlessness that made it difficult to focus on anything else. He promised himself that he would understand her story, that he would reach out to her and try to bridge the gap, but deep down, he knew that the journey ahead wouldn't be easy. The emotional scars from this ordeal would take time to heal, not just for Anushree, but for him as well. In that moment, Akash understood that his feelings were not just centered on fear and confusion, but also on a glimmer of hope that perhaps redemption was still possible for both of them.

Akash stood at his doorstep, the cool evening air washing over him as he wrestled with his thoughts about Anushree. The late evening sun dipped low, casting a golden hue across Akash's doorstep as he mulled over his feelings for Anushree. Standing there, he grappled with confusion and hurt; the emotional weight of the situation pressed down on him like a heavy cloud. He knew he needed clarity and support, so he reached for his phone and dialed Ruhani, his girlfriend and Anushree's sister. Their relationship had always been a source of strength, and he hoped she could shed light on his turbulent thoughts. He knew he couldn't navigate this emotional landscape alone; he needed to talk to Ruhani who could help him make sense of it all. Dialing her number, he felt a mix of apprehension and urgency.

When Ruhani picked up, her voice radiated warmth, yet there was an undercurrent of tension that caught Akash's attention. He sensed that she could feel something was off. After exchanging basic pleasantries, he plunged into the details of the events that had left him reeling from the pain caused by Anushree's actions. With each word, he shared his confusion and feelings of betrayal, describing the emotional rollercoaster that had unfolded between him and Anushree. Akash could almost feel Ruhani's reaction as he spoke; her breaths became shallow, indicating the depth of her engagement with his story .He recounted the moments of confusion and heartache, detailing how Anushree's actions had left him feeling betrayed and uncertain. As he spoke, he could hear Ruhani's breath hitch-a clear sign that she was processing the information rapidly.

It wasn't long before Akash concluded his story, and the shift in Ruhani's demeanor was immediate. Her voice, once warm, now crackled with anger. "I can't believe she would do that!" Ruhani exclaimed, disbelief lacing her tone. "I always thought the world of Akash, and for her to treat you like this... I can't even process it right now!" The betrayal felt personal to Ruhani, who had always believed that her sister would respect the relationships in her life. Her sister's actions seemed to cross an unspoken boundary, and the anger surged within her like a tidal wave.

As Ruhani spoke, Akash felt both relieved and worried. He appreciated her fierce loyalty, but he also feared that her anger could further complicate matters. "Ruhani, I understand how you feel, but I think Anushree is hurting too," he interjected gently, trying to temper her outrage. "I really want to understand why she acted this way, and I think it's important that we approach this carefully." He could almost hear the gears turning in her mind as she struggled to reconcile her loyalty to him with her complicated relationship with her sister.

Ruhani's silence lingered, followed by a heavy sigh. "I know you want to understand, and I want that for you too. But trust me, I need time to process this before I can even think about confronting her." Akash nodded even though she couldn't see him, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. He understood that this was more than just a misunderstanding between him and Anushree; it affected family dynamics, trust, and the love that bound them all. As the call ended, Akash felt a mix of gratitude for Ruhani's support and concern for the fragile threads of connection that now hung in the balance. They would both have to face the fallout together, navigating the tumultuous waters of family and friendship in the days to come.

Akash felt gratitude for Ruhani's willingness to support him but also a gnawing anxiety about what lay ahead. They were poised at the brink of an emotional reckoning, and navigating the fallout would require both of them to tread carefully. He knew the coming days would challenge their understanding of loyalty, family dynamics, and the intricacies of love, and he hoped that through open communication, they could fortify their connections rather than fracture them further. The path ahead was uncertain, but they would have to embrace it together, facing the tumultuous waters of intertwining family and friendship head-on.

After the call ended, Ruhani felt a mix of lingering anger and deep concern. Akash's heartfelt recounting of the betrayal he experienced at the hands of her sister, Anushree, had struck a chord within her, igniting a protective instinct that was both fierce and complicated. As she set her phone down, the disbelief and frustration at Anushree's actions surged through her like a tidal wave. For much of her life, she had viewed Anushree as a role model, someone who would uphold the values of respect and loyalty. The revelation that her sister would act in a way that deeply hurt Akash was both shocking and personal, leading her to question not just Anushree's decisions but the fabric of their familial ties.

A heaviness settled in Ruhani's chest as she processed Akash's words. While she understood his desire to seek answers and forgiveness, the reality of the situation felt overwhelming. The anger that she had expressed during the call morphed into a contemplative silence as she considered the implications of confronting Anushree. She felt torn; on one hand, there was her unwavering loyalty to Akash, a friend who was suffering from heartbreak, while on the other, there was her sister, whose motives remained shrouded in mystery. The thought of challenging Anushree brought about a sense of dread, as it threatened to fracture their sibling bond and push them into a confrontation filled with accusatory words.

Moreover, the emotional weight of the situation deeply unsettled Ruhani. She found herself grappling with the feelings of betrayal as they related to her own perception of family. Trust-a cornerstone of any relationship-had evidently been compromised, and she was unsure how to navigate this breach. The thought of her sister, someone she knew so well, being capable of such hurtful actions made her question everything she believed about their shared history. In essence, Ruhani's heart ached not just for Akash, but for the potential loss of her connection with Anushree. The juxtaposition of loyalty to her friend and the desire to protect her sister left her feeling emotionally isolated, as she hovered uncertainly between the two worlds.

As the evening wore on, Ruhani knew she needed time to sort through these tangled emotions. She needed to find clarity before taking any further steps. The day-to-day routine around her felt mundane compared to the emotional turmoil swirling within. She resolved to reflect on her thoughts and feelings rather than act impulsively, recognizing the importance of approaching both Akash and Anushree with the careful consideration that the situation demanded. She hoped that in due time, she would be able to help bridge the growing divide between them, but for now, she had to focus on understanding the depth of her own feelings first.

On the other side

Anushree was sitting on the couch in her room. Suddenly her assistant Arush called her. She picked up the call and the boy from the other side spoke " Mam we came to know that Ruhani had learned about Akash. Akash had called her and told her everything. Mam do we need to do anything?".

Anushree said " Nothing is to be done . Just keep a look on that Ruhani and don't call me now ."

Arush said " Ok mam" and disconnected the call.

When Anushree discovered that Ruhani had learned about her involvement in Akash's kidnapping, a swift rush of anxiety swept over her, quickly followed by a wave of anger. In that moment, she felt exposed and vulnerable; her carefully crafted facade began to crumble. Anushree had always been adept at manipulating situations to her advantage, but this revelation was a significant threat to her carefully laid plans. She had assumed she could manage the chaos surrounding her actions, diverting attention and control while maintaining her grip over both Akash and Ruhani. Now, however, the stakes had risen sharply, and her world felt perilously unbalanced.

A bitter taste settled in her mouth as she paced the room, her mind racing with thoughts of how Ruhani might react. Anushree's first instinct was to dismiss the information, convincing herself that Ruhani was simply overreacting or misinformed. Yet, a deeper, insistent fear nagged at the edges of her consciousness-what if Ruhani actually believed she knew the truth? The notion of confronting the reality of her actions was daunting. Anushree considered her options with a calculating mind, knowing that she had to regain control of the situation before it spiraled out of her hands. The prospect of losing her sister's loyalty to Akash only fueled her resolve, igniting a ruthless determination within her.

Realizing that emotions had compromised her judgment, Anushree quickly shifted gears from fear to a strategic mindset. She envisioned ways to manipulate the narrative, to cast herself as a victim rather than a perpetrator. In her mind, she began plotting how to position herself as the misunderstood sister who only acted out of love and necessity, a narrative that could evoke sympathy and loyalty from both Akash and Ruhani. As she considered her next steps, she felt a surge of justification; her actions, however morally ambiguous, were designed to protect what she felt was hers, and she was determined not to let anyone tear that apart.

With a cold resolve setting in, Anushree began to plan a confrontation with Ruhani-one that would allow her to seduce sympathy and stifle accusations. She strategized how to exploit her sister's loyalty, aiming to frame the situation in a way that would cast doubt on Ruhani's perceptions. The desperation pulsing through her became the very fuel for her plans; she knew she would have to manipulate the situation deftly, rekindling the emotional connection between the sisters while obscuring her own misdeeds. Anushree's heart raced at the prospect of playing the part of both the protector and wounded party, blissfully unaware of how tangled her web of deceit was becoming.

As she prepared for the confrontation, a twisted sense of exhilaration filled her. Anushree was ready to fight to maintain her grip on her relationships and was willing to go to great lengths to ensure that Ruhani remained in the dark about the full extent of her actions. In her mind, the fragile static of sister loyalty was merely another tool, and she was determined to use it to her advantage, no matter the cost.

******************************************************************************

A few days passed...

Today Ruhani was very happy as she was going to propose to Akash with a beautiful surprise. In the morning, Ruhani awoke with a mix of excitement and nervous energy coursing through her. As sunlight streamed through her window, she felt a wave of joy wash over her, knowing that the day she had been dreaming about for so long had finally arrived. Thoughts of Akash filled her mind; his smile, his laughter, and the deep connection they shared all contributed to her elation.

However, alongside her joy, there was also a tinge of anxiety. The weight of the moment-the prospect of proposing-was not lost on her. Ruhani felt vulnerable, knowing that this act would be a significant turning point in their relationship. She worried about whether her feelings would be reciprocated and if she had chosen the right words to express her love and commitment.

As she prepared throughout the morning, her heart raced with anticipation. Every little detail she checked off her list-from arranging the picnic to going over the scrapbook-amplified her feelings. There was a palpable thrill in thinking about how surprised and happy Akash would be. She envisioned the moment when she would finally express the depth of her feelings, and the idea alone made her smile.

In moments of reflection, she felt immense gratitude for the love they shared, recognizing that this proposal was not just about a ring or a moment in time; it was about their journey, the bond they had built, and the future they could share.

Ultimately, Ruhani's feelings encapsulated a beautiful blend of hope, love, and a hint of nervousness, all culminating into an incredible sense of purpose as she headed toward what could be one of the most significant moments of her life.

She dialed his number to call him to a particular place but the phone was going unreachable. She again dialed but the same thing was happening. So she stopped calling him. After nearly fifteen minutes he dropped a message

" Rooh, today I am busy with some of the office work that papa had given me. Today I can't talk. I am sorry Rooh. I will surely call back tomorrow. Bye love 💕".

Upon reading the message, Rooh's heart sank. Initially filled with excitement and anticipation, she had imagined the perfect moment to propose, a culmination of her feelings and hopes for their future together. As she processed his text, a wave of disappointment washed over her. She felt a knot of sadness in her stomach; the day she had looked forward to was now slipping away.

Rooh's mind raced with thoughts. She understood that he was busy with work, but it didn't lessen the sting of his absence. All the scenarios she had envisioned-him surprised, happy, maybe even a little nervous-faded away, replaced by the dull ache of frustration.

She chided herself for getting her hopes up; maybe she should have anticipated that his commitments would come first, especially since it was a workday. After a moment of contemplation, she tried to rationalize her feelings. Perhaps it was better this way-maybe a proposal needed a more special moment than a busy workday.

Yet, that didn't completely quell her sadness. She wanted to reach out and tell him how much she cared, how she had been preparing herself for this vulnerable moment. Instead, she just stared at the screen, feeling a mix of longing and resignation. She wondered if she would gather the courage to propose the next day or if the uncertainty of his workload would continue to hang over them.

In that moment, she resolved to wait, hoping tomorrow would bring a better opportunity. But she knew deep down that this day would linger in her mind as a missed chance, a moment lost to circumstance. With a heavy sigh, she put her phone down, allowing herself to feel the weight of her emotions, the bittersweet nature of love and timing.

After a few moments of wallowing in disappointment, Rooh felt a spark of determination. The idea of simply waiting for him to call back didn't sit well with her. She wanted to take action, to show him how much he meant to her. Suddenly, inspiration struck-what if she called his mother? She hoped to learn where he might be and perhaps get some help in executing her surprise.

Rooh dialed his mother's number, her heart racing as she waited for her to pick up. When his mother answered, there was familiarity and warmth in her voice that made Rooh feel more at ease. After exchanging pleasantries, she cautiously inquired about her son.

To her surprise, his mother informed her that he was staying at the nearby "Star Hotel" to focus on some urgent work. Rooh's heart leaped at the thought. This could be the perfect opportunity to surprise him!

Determined, Rooh quickly thought through the details. She envisioned herself walking into the hotel, a bouquet of flowers in hand, and catching him off guard with her love. The disappointment from earlier melted away, replaced with a thrilling sense of adventure.

As she grabbed her coat and the carefully chosen flowers she had intended for her proposal, she felt a rush of adrenaline. Rooh decided against overthinking it; instead, she would embrace the spontaneity of the moment. This was her chance to express her feelings in a way that would sweep him off his feet, even if the timing wasn't perfect.

On her way to the "Star Hotel," Rooh's mind raced with possibilities. How would he react? Would he be surprised? She imagined the look on his face as she entered the room and revealed her intentions. Each moment of anticipation fueled her excitement, and she found herself humming softly to keep her spirits high.

Arriving at the hotel, she took a moment to gather her thoughts. With her heart pounding, she approached the front desk and asked for his room number, giving her name as an explanation. The receptionist, friendly and helpful, obliged without a second thought.

With flowers in hand, Rooh headed to his room, feeling a blend of nerves and exhilaration. She was no longer just a girl with plans that had gone awry; she was a determined young woman ready to express her love in a way that would leave a lasting impression. As she reached his door, she took a deep breath, adjusted her smile, and knocked, ready to embrace whatever moment awaited her.

As Rooh rang the doorbell, her heart raced with anticipation, but when there was no immediate response, a flicker of anxiety tugged at her. Her instincts told her something was off, but she brushed it aside, her excitement overriding her doubts. Perhaps he was just wrapped up in work and hadn't heard of her at first. Driven by her urgency to surprise him, she decided to open the door herself, believing that a delightful surprise awaited her on the other side.

When she forcefully turned the doorknob and pushed the door open, the sight before her shattered her heart in an instant. There, in a moment she would never forget, she saw him-her boyfriend-caught in a passionate kiss with her sister, Anushree. Time seemed to freeze as disbelief washed over Rooh like a cold wave, her breath hitching in her throat.

Initially, she stood there in shock, her mind racing to piece together what was happening. Confusion mingled with devastation as the bright hopes of her proposal faded into a scene that felt like a cruel betrayal. Her flowers slipped from her grip and fell to the floor, petals scattering across the carpet like her dashed dreams.

Rooh's heart ached as she processed the picture before her. The warmth and affection she had envisioned sharing with him crumbled into a painful realization that swallowed her whole. Was this why he had been unreachable? Why did he choose to be at the hotel instead of with her? The betrayal stung deeply, igniting a whirlwind of emotions-hurt, anger, and betrayal coursed through her veins.

Finally, the shock gave way to anger. She took a step back, the reality of the situation sinking in. She felt her cheeks flush with frustration and humiliation. How could he do this to her? And with her sister? Anushree, who had always been supportive, was now her worst enemy in this moment.

With a mix of rage and sorrow boiling within her, Rooh turned on her heel. She didn't want to confront them right now; she needed space to breathe, to think. As she walked away from the hotel, tears blurred her vision, yet deep down, she resolved that she would never allow herself to be treated this way again. It had been a day that began with hope but had been irrevocably transformed into a painful lesson about love, trust, and the complexities of relationships.

In the room .

Akash pulled Anushree 's hand and slapped her. Anushree was shocked by such a move as she was not at all expecting this from him.

Akash said " How dare you, why you did this to me. Why, why.....?".

Anushree smirked..

[ Authors note - So my lovelies , I think you will be thinking if Akash was just doing that with Anushree then why did he slapped her . Sooo... Let me tell my lovelies the flashback]

When Ruhani was parking her car , there was someone who was watching her from the top of the hotel. Yes, it was Anushree. She said ,"Oh my dear little sister I didn't know that you will be so fast but I will not let this happen anymore the scene you will be seeing right now will break you completely."

Anushree dressed like a worker of the hotel and then knocked the door of Akash. When Akash didn't open she forcefully opened the door. Looking at her Akash was completely started , he was about to speak something when Anushree started kissing him.

And in the mean time ruhani entered...

Flashback ends...

As Rooh walked away from the hotel, her heart heavy with betrayal, her boyfriend remained rooted in the spot, feeling the weight of despair settle like a stone in his chest. He watched her retreating figure with a sense of helplessness, the pain of misunderstanding hitting him like a tidal wave. The kiss that Rooh had witnessed had not been a shared moment of affection; it had been Anushree, driven by jealousy and a desire to create chaos, who had leaned in and kissed him forcefully.

The shock of Anushree's actions surged through him, making his heart ache even more. He had never loved her and had always been devoted to Rooh. In that fleeting moment, he had been caught completely off guard, wrestling with the mixture of confusion and shock, while the real love of his life was walking away with a broken heart.

As the tears began to stream down his face, he felt an overwhelming sense of loss. "Rooh!" he cried out, desperation tinging his voice, but she didn't look back. Each sob was a revelation of his grief, a plea for her to understand the truth-that he would never betray her, that she was the only one he had ever truly loved. He could scarcely believe that one moment could so completely alter the course of their relationship.

Meanwhile, quietly observing from the side, Anushree wore a subtle, satisfied smile. This was no accident; it was part of a calculated plan she had devised to create a rift between her sister and her boyfriend. In her mind, she fantasized about breaking their connection-turning the love between them into ashes. Confident in her scheme, she had let her impulsive actions unfold without a second thought for the harm they would cause.

Seeing her sister's boyfriend, a man she had never truly cared for but had grown envious of, crumbled in tears stirred something wicked in Anushree. She felt a sense of triumph as she watched him weep. To her, it was vindication; a way to snatch Rooh's happiness away and create a void she could exploit for herself. Her mind raced with cruel thoughts, imagining the unraveling of their love and the broken trust that would keep them apart forever.

"See? It was so easy," Anushree thought to herself, watching as he struggled, tears reflecting his pain-pain that she had intentionally orchestrated. The satisfaction she derived from witnessing his sorrow illuminated her own heart, filling it with a twisted sense of glee.

In that heart-wrenching moment, while Rooh's world felt like it was collapsing, and her boyfriend mourned the misunderstanding that separated them, Anushree reveled in her success, blissfully unaware of the deep and painful consequences of her betrayal. Little did she know that love, built on trust and steadfast devotion, would never be so easily extinguished; and though they were both suffering now, their story was far from over.

As Rooh walked away from the hotel, her heart pounded in her chest, each beat echoing the despair of betrayal. The sight of her boyfriend kissing Anushree replayed in her mind, a haunting image that stripped her of hope and clarity. In that moment, she felt an all-too-familiar ache of heartbreak begin to rise within her-a pain she thought she had left behind with her ex-boyfriend, who had betrayed her in a similar way.

The memories rushed back like an unwelcome tide, wrapping around her like a suffocating shroud. Her previous relationship had ended in heartbreak, leaving her with scars that never fully healed. She had loved him deeply, only to discover that he had been unfaithful, betraying her trust and the dreams they had shared. Now, facing a similar betrayal again, Rooh felt that the ground had shifted beneath her. The haunting echo of "Is he really different?" reverberated through her mind, casting a shadow over every shred of happiness she had hoped to build with her current boyfriend.

As she walked, her emotions began to swirl violently-hurt, anger, betrayal, and confusion all clashed within her. The idea that the word "love" could so easily transform into a lie felt suffocating. She had poured her heart into this relationship, envisioned a future filled with shared laughter and understanding, only to have it shattered in an instant. The deep-seated fear of being unlovable and undeserving of genuine affection began to creep back, threatening to consume her.

Rooh felt a potent mix of sorrow and rage rise within her, prompting her to stop in her tracks. Memories of her previous relationship stung sharply, making it painfully clear that perhaps she had been naive to believe in love again. It felt as though the universe was playing some cruel joke, tossing her from one betrayal to another, leaving her feeling like a fool for ever hoping for a different outcome.

Fueled by a sudden surge of raw emotion, Rooh turned, facing the hotel again and letting the weight of her feelings boil over. With a broken yet powerful voice, she screamed, "'I love you' is the best lie in the whole world!"

" I hate you Aka..shh.. , I hate youu...!"

The words escaped her lips like a desperate cry for help, a declaration of her disillusionment with love itself. In that moment, she felt a fleeting sense of liberation, despite the pain that it carried. It was an acknowledgment of everything she had experienced, a culmination of feelings that had been bottled up for too long.

As she stood there, breathless and trembling, Rooh understood that she would have to confront and heal from this pain anew. The journey ahead would be difficult, but her heart screamed for the truth-she would rise from the ruins and redefine what love meant, determined to reclaim her worth and understand her own strength, even if it took time.

Still reeling from the emotional turmoil and feeling the weight of betrayal pressing down on her, Rooh paused for a moment to gather her thoughts. The anger, sadness, and disappointment mingled in her heart, but beneath it all was a growing desire for change-an urge to break free from the painful memories that had now intertwined with her present.

With trembling hands, she pulled out her phone and opened her contacts, scrolling until she found her father's name. The familiar warmth that usually filled her chest at the thought of him felt distant, but she needed his support now more than ever. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she pressed the call button.

After a few rings, her father answered, his voice filled with concern. "Rooh? Is everything okay?"

"Dad," she started, her voice shaky but resolute. "I need to talk to you about something important."

There was a pause, a brief silence that stretched between them, and she could sense the worry radiating from the other end of the line. "Of course, sweetheart. What's going on?"

"I... I want to continue my higher studies in the USA," she said, her voice growing steadier with each word. "I think it's time for me to leave this country. I need a fresh start, away from all of this."

Rooh could hear her father's intake of breath, a mix of surprise and concern. "Are you sure, Rooh? I know things have been tough lately, but leaving everything behind is a big decision."

"I know," she replied, her resolve solidifying. "But I can't stay here and keep reliving the past. I need to focus on my future, build my dreams, and find myself again. Being here just reminds me of everything that's gone wrong."

There was a moment of silence as her father processed her words. "I want you to be happy, Rooh," he finally said, his tone softening. "If pursuing your studies in the USA is what you believe will help you heal and grow, then I'm here to support you. Just promise me you won't rush into anything without considering all your options."

A wave of relief washed over Rooh, knowing that her father believed in her decision. "I promise, Dad. I'll make a plan and think it through. I just feel like this is what I need right now."

"Okay. Let's talk about it more when you come home," he replied, his voice filled with encouragement. "And remember, no matter where you go, you'll always have family supporting you."

As she hung up the phone, a sense of empowerment surged within her. The decision to leave, to pursue her higher studies, felt like taking control of her life again. Leaving the country would not erase her past, but it would open new doors and opportunities, allowing her to forge a new identity away from the hurt.

Rooh wiped her tears, feeling a flicker of hope igniting in her heart. She was ready to transition from this turbulent chapter into one of promise and growth, determined to reclaim her strength and rediscover the joy in her life. The journey ahead may be uncertain, but it was hers to embrace-and she would no longer allow her past to define her future.

******************************************************************************

Let me know how much you enjoyed this chapter.....

I know you might be not ready for this 😭😔😭 but trust me next chapters will be amazing..

𝕤ᴏ ᴄᴜᴛɪᴇ𝕤. ᴛʜɪ𝕤 ᴡᴀ𝕤 ᴛʜᴇ twentieth cʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ. ᴅʀᴏᴘ 𝕤ᴏᴍᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇʟʏ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴛ𝕤 ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴍʏ 𝕤ᴛᴏʀʏ. ɪ ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ʜᴏᴘᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪʟʟ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜɪ𝕤 ᴘᴀʀᴛ. ᴘʟᴇᴀ𝕤ᴇ 𝕤ʜᴀʀᴇ ɪᴛ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜʀ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅ𝕤 ᴀɴᴅ ғᴀᴍɪʟʏ. ᴀʟ𝕤ᴏ ᴀᴅᴅ ᴛʜɪ𝕤 𝕤ᴛᴏʀʏ ɪɴ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʟɪʙʀᴀʀʏ. ʜᴏᴘᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ 𝕤ᴏᴏɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴇ𝕩ᴛ ᴘᴀʀᴛ. ᴛɪʟʟ ᴛʜᴇɴ ᴛᴀᴋᴇ ᴄᴀʀᴇ ☺☺.

ʙʏᴇᴇ ʟᴏᴠᴇʟɪᴇ𝕤 😘😘....

ᴅᴏ ʜɪᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴠᴏᴛᴇ ʙᴜᴛᴛᴏɴ.... ᴘʟᴇᴀ𝕤ᴇ..... 😭

◦•●◉✿◦•●✿◉●•◦𝓦𝓪𝓲𝓽 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓷𝓮𝔁𝓽 𝓹𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓷 13 th January 2025 ◦•●◉✿ ✿◉●•◦