| Abhiya FF - His Firefly | COMPLETED Chapter 108 Pg 88 - Page 8

Chapter 13

A Composition

Was it possible to compose music in your dreams? Piya certainly hadn’t thought so. The idea sounded absurd, and seemed like something only musical prodigies could do.

This dream was different from the others. She was alone, standing under a bright spotlight, violin and bow in either hand. Any sound that permeated the air produced a reverb a few decibels higher.

Her body moved on its own, playing an interesting ensemble of notes that were meant to be paired with something. She could hear a piano too, but could not see it. It was playing his piece.

But he was nowhere to be found. And neither was the mystery man.

Piya’s body continued to play her parts over and over again, looping in sync with the piano parts. She examined her surroundings with her eyes, but found nothing but darkness. Below her was a wooden floor that reminded her of a concert hall stage.

She wanted to stop playing, but her body wouldn’t let her. The notes kept repeating, until they were ingrained deep into her mind. The addition with the piano made the piece’s overall melancholy even more powerful. A haunting beauty. She had to write this down, before she forgot it.

Wake up....please....

Her eyes shot open. She quickly sat upright, fueled by a creative adrenaline, and left the warmth of her bed. She had forgotten to wear her slippers, the floor punishing the bottoms of her feet with a cold and unforgiving temperature. But it woke her up quite nicely. She switched on a heater before doing anything else.

The notes were still fresh and audible. She had to work fast. Nothing would be more tragic than to forget those sounds. Papers and pens were dumped onto the table, her fingers scouring to find his composition and some empty sheets. She spent the next two hours under a dim desk lamp, composing and refining a violin portion to complement the piano. A fitting completion to what he deemed incomplete.

It was messy, but readable. She played the violin parts a few times, just like in her dream. It sounded just like it.

I hope you like it, she thought. She also hoped he wouldn’t get mad for adding to it. With his moods, it was impossible to guess his reaction. She opened a small drawer in the tv stand and pulled out a voice recorder. It was originally found when cleaning the living room during her first week, conveniently blank.

I can record it on this.

She put it into her bag, intending to ask Kabir to help record during their practice time. He was the only other pianist she knew.,

She tried to fall asleep afterwards, but the adrenaline rush kept her awake for another hour. Writing and finishing new music was always a matter of excitement for her. She couldn’t wait to hear it in reality. She couldn’t wait for him to listen to it too.

————————————————————————

Doon University rarely saw Abhay Raichand gracing it with his presence, the latter only showing up to take exams, attend special campus events, or to drop off assignments. He wished for nothing more than to eliminate the last category, but none of his professors allowed online submissions.

And I’m the one out of the 18th century, he grumbled, starting his car. The stack of papers next to him were bound neatly with several paper clip, separated by class.

As expected, there were several girls forming hordes behind him, touching up their tacky makeup, all in hopes of capturing Abhay’s attention. These chances came by rarely. T was surprisingly missing from the bunch. He learned from hushed gossip that she was out sick. T’s convenient absence gave some of the other girls opportunity to flirt up front with him, but he just ignored them and kept walking.

I don’t have time for this nonsense.

He could care less for these people. His distaste for humans remained steadfast. Piya was becoming the only exception, and he wasn’t even conscious of the fact.

So damn clingy.

The Business department was on the west side of the campus, isolated from all the other buildings. Many of Dehradun’s richest business owners donated money to the department directly, allowing the building to stand separately from the others and also get renovated with a fresh, modern look. It definitely stood out.

He walked inside, instantly catching the attention of the students in the hallways, and visited each professor’s office to hand deliver his assignments. The faculty were very fond of Abhay, as a student. A natural topper. Reserved, but polite. His speech and body language reflected the class and maturity of a member of the Raichand family.

They just wished he’d interact in lecture more. Or even show up to lecture.

Abhay had no interest in getting the degree to begin with. He was running some of his family businesses just fine; some might say even better than the competition. It was just one of Siddharth’s ideas to get him out of the house more. Something along the lines of ”You need to make friends....”. It obviously backfired horribly.

Just one more semester and I’m free.

Even though Abhay preferred to be left alone, there were certain people that had managed to break past his reluctance and extend a hand of friendship. One of those few lucky individuals was now here to greet him.

Danish Singh was his name. He was a young vampire of about 105 years old, who had formed a friendship with Abhay some 20 years prior, around the time Abhay became leader of their clan.

He was also a good student, who diligently attended lectures with added interest. Abhay relied on him to get information on new assignments. He was as tall as Abhay, with a darker complexion, a pearly white smile, and dark brown eyes.

“Look who decided to show up today. Mr. Popular.” He swung his arm around Abhay’s shoulders. The latter was still annoyed at the attention. “No wonder all the girls here are missing.”

“I much rather be Mr. Unpopular,” he scoffed.

“Not with those....ahem...” He raised his voice to mimic Abhay’s fans. “...godly looks and charms.”

They both heard giggles and whispers from around the corner. Two girls were staring at the both of them, giving bashful glances. Abhay groaned and began to walk away.

“Hear that? They’d kill to be in my position right now. But anyways, I suppose you’re only here to submit assignments?” He lifted an eyebrow. Abhay nodded.

“I didn’t expect you here either. I thought Maya’s family must’ve turned you into a frog or something.”

“Don’t remind me.” Danish rubbed his temples. Maya was his longtime girlfriend, a witch. She was younger than him by a few decades.

Even though the two species made peace centuries ago, there was still some opposition towards these kinds of relationships. Danish had to face the music every time he tried to meet her family. This time he tried to ask for Maya’s hand.

“At least her grandmother and dad were polite. And they agreed. Her mom though.....she scares me.”

“The fact she spared you tells me she’s not completely opposed. Maybe you’re overthinking it.”

“I doubt it. Maya suggested eloping afterwards.”

“Mandu would gladly arrange something if the situation came to that.” It would please her rebellious and headstrong nature.

“That’s why Maya has her on speed dial.” They shared a laugh, lightening Abhay’s mood.

Danish was done with lecture for the day, keeping conversation with Abhay until it was time for both of them to go. Abhay thought to ask him about the strange werewolves lurking in the city, and if Danish had encountered any. But he pushed it out of his mind. He preferred to address these concerns with the entire clan at the same time. And based of Danish’s behavior, there was nothing out of the ordinary.

The droves of girls collectively lost interest and dispersed, letting Abhay finally breathe in peace. He wanted to stop by one more place before he went back home. The Arts department, hoping to catch a glimpse of Piya. He was finding it difficult to hold himself back.

You’re just checking on her. Nothing else.

Why is he going there?, Danish thought, expecting to be walking towards the parking lot. Abhay had no business anywhere else on campus. He didn’t know about Abhay’s newfound infatuation with a human.

They reached the wing of practice rooms, her sound finding its way to his ears in no time. He couldn’t help but stand out of view and just listen.

————————————————————————

Piya and Kabir were practicing in between class, having perfected their routine. “Looks like you practiced a lot while I was gone, Kabir.” She was more than impressed. The performance was going to be a success.

Kabir smiled triumphantly. “Was it good?”

“It was perfect.” She lifted her bow again. “One more time?” He nodded, turning back to the piano. They flowed through the notes of the first two pieces, like a smooth brushstroke on a blank canvas.

Piya couldn’t help but feel like Abhay was somewhere around here. She couldn’t explain why she felt this way, but a sixth sense was telling her he was listening.

But he’s usually never on campus.

She stopped abruptly in the middle of the third piece, startling Kabir. “What happened?” He asked.

“One second...” She hopped off her stool and took light steps towards the door, turning the handle slowly. She stuck her head outside and scanned the surroundings. He wasn’t there. She frowned and smacked her forehead. The door slammed shut.

“Uh...are you okay?” Kabir looked genuinely confused.

Who is she looking for?

“I’m fine...just delusional. Sorry, let’s continue.” He nodded and picked up the notes from where they left off. She couldn’t remember her exact place and tried to guess, but ended up in the wrong section.

Kabir chuckled. “Maybe we should restart the third.” She blushed in embarrassment and nodded. Kabir’s reassuring smile and patience was something she was thankful for.

Abhay had narrowly escaped being seen, taking Danish with him. Her music did things to his mind, like she was hypnotizing him. He couldn’t walk away. It was as if his soul was craving the sweet sound, and was keeping him there by force.

Danish was speechless. Abhay Raichand, showing interest in a girl. A human girl. The guy who couldn’t even stand sitting next to a human was actively observing one. The sparkle and joy in his eyes was something worth seeing. Abhay noticed Danish’s surprise, knowing what would come next. He shoved his hands in his pockets defensively, turning away.

“I just like her violin playing. That’s all.”

“I didn’t even ask you anything.” He teased, looking back at the same hallway. “Her playing is good, but I’m sure you’ve heard much better in your lifetime, no?”

Abhay looked at him with a slight glare, as if the remark offended him personally. Danish laughed and punched his shoulder.

“Relax. I’m just messing with you. I think I got my answer.”

To Abhay, she was the best he’s ever heard.

————————————————————————

Piya had the other piece and voice recorder ready to go on a stool next to her. The duo had just ended their practice for the day.

“Hey Kabir, before we go....I have one more piece I want to try, if it’s okay with you?”

Kabir stopped gathering his things and sat back down. He wasn’t sure what to expect. They only agreed on these three pieces. Where did this fourth one come from? It would take more time to rehearse, and time was running thin.

Wait, why are you complaining? You get to spend more time with Piya this way. His lips curled up into a small smile.

Piya noticed his slight confusion earlier and thought to clarify. “Don’t worry. It’s a piece that a friend wrote. I just wanted to make a recording of it.”

He lifted his head in understanding and nodded. “Can I see?” He reached out his hand.

She gave Kabir the sheet music, letting him examine it carefully. It didn’t seem too difficult from a first look. “Sight reading is fine. It shouldn’t take too long.”

Piya didn’t want to take too much of his time. They already practiced overtime today, and she didn’t want to make him late in getting home. But Kabir wanted to make sure she had the best recording possible, and he would stay until they had reached that pinnacle.

“How about we rehearse it a few times? Before you record?”

“Okay.”

Piya set the voice recorder in between them, leaving it off for the time being. They played it several times to make sure they both got a good feel for things. Kabir felt confident that the next run would be what she needed.

“Let’s record now.” Piya nodded, pressing the button on the recorder. As Kabir intended, the quality was at its peak. She listened to it afterwards, making sure the captured audio quality was just as acceptable. Her lips curled into a wide grin. It was perfect.

“Your friend really has a good sense of melody. That was beautiful.” Kabir complimented, not knowing this friend was Abhay.

“It’s very beautiful,” she whispered to herself. “Thank you, Kabir.”

“It’s my pleasure. Ready to go?”

“Yeah.”

She carefully stowed the device away in her bag, gathering her other materials and helping Kabir fix up the room to its usual arrangement.

She hummed the piece to herself on the way home, her heart and soul put at ease with the melody.

————————————————————————

https://youtu.be/ewBOcdz29Sw

beautiful chapter

wow pia complete the music which abhay left incomplete😃

that too in her dream & she wrote it before she forget😊

uff abhay's charm work on those girls they just couldn't stop looking at abhay😉

abhay hated all these attention he get from every girls

love abhay & danish bonding😃

so danish love maya & she is witch & he is vampire so he is getting hard time from many peoples

loll madhu is more then ready to help maya & danish to runaway if anyone don't accept their love😆

abhay can charm anyone with his vampire charm but pia's innocent & music charm him😉

danish was really surprised seeing abhay's attention toward human girl😲

but he also didn't leave chance to tease abhay😆

look like pia recording that music for abhay😃

kabir gonna have real bad heart break

hope abhay will find abt khurana's real face soon🤔

continue plz

Originally posted by: cuteariya

beautiful chapter

wow pia complete the music which abhay left incomplete😃

that too in her dream & she wrote it before she forget😊

uff abhay's charm work on those girls they just couldn't stop looking at abhay😉

abhay hated all these attention he get from every girls

love abhay & danish bonding😃

so danish love maya & she is witch & he is vampire so he is getting hard time from many peoples

loll madhu is more then ready to help maya & danish to runaway if anyone don't accept their love😆

abhay can charm anyone with his vampire charm but pia's innocent & music charm him😉

danish was really surprised seeing abhay's attention toward human girl😲

but he also didn't leave chance to tease abhay😆

look like pia recording that music for abhay😃

kabir gonna have real bad heart break

hope abhay will find abt khurana's real face soon🤔

continue plz

Everyone likes to tease Abhay 😆 thanks dear! 🤗

Chapter 14

I Spy

A set of wooden keys twirled around Siddharth’s finger, bound together with a steel key ring. Each one bore a unique, intricate carving into its head and was shaped from its own type of wood. Polished to a delicate shine and unworn, they were keys infused with magic. Every supernatural was required to have a set.

Abhay crossed his legs atop the coffee table, mindlessly switching through channels on the television. Mandu tugged at Siddharth’s sleeve, ready to accompany him.

“You sure you don’t want to come with?”

“More than sure,” Abhay replied, spinning the remote between his fingers. He didn’t provide a specific reason. “Just tell me what is said later.”

“Alright.” Siddharth turned to Mandu. “Let’s go, love.” She nodded.

They entered the basement of the mansion, walking through a long corridor that led to a single locked door. Siddharth chose the mahogany key from the set and wriggled it into the keyhole, turning it effortlessly. He pushed the door open to a vast grassy field, a large castle-like structure standing just after it. The door in their basement was now the door to a small rundown shack.

These keys were gates to places of supernatural nature, and could be used on any door. The mahogany key was bound to the most important location.

Prague, Czech Republic. Home of The Circle’s main headquarters.

Mandu looked up at the stormy sky, taking a step forward. The bottoms of her sandals plunged into a muddy puddle, a remnant of passing rain. The dark grey clouds circled around the spire of the castle in a ominous parade, thunder rumbling and lighting flashing, one after the other.

“Why is it always so gloomy and stormy here? It feels like a scene from a cliché horror film.” She shook off the mud from her sandals with one jerk of her legs.

“All it’s missing is a pipe organ.” Siddharth took her hand. “Let’s go inside before it starts raining again.” They both cleared the large field easily with their speed, avoiding the rest of the muddy puddles. The two guards standing at the main entrance bowed and opened the doors for them.

The interior was even more cliché. Small fires pits crackled at every corner, filling the stone cold walls of the castle with an inviting warmth. The furnishings and interior architecture were inspired by such of the late Victorian era. Supernaturals has a bias the style, for it depicted class and mystery.

Overall, The Circle’s main headquarters was larger inside than out. The main council sat in a large boardroom at the highest level, away from unnecessary ruckus. The torture-filled dungeons were at the lowest level, deep underneath the surface. In between the two polar ends of the structure contained rooms and studies for other parts of the order. At the heart, a massive ballroom for parties and large gatherings.

The foyer, a meeting place for casual conversation, was mostly empty today, with the exception of a few lounging vampires and a beautiful siren entertaining them in song. Mandu liked seeing sirens out of the water. She thought the scales that covered their lower legs looked cool. This one had rainbow scales. Her voice was just as beautiful.

“I wish I could sing like that,” she murmured. Siddharth chuckled. He admired her fascination for the smallest of things.

The two continued on their way. The Circle’s spies had their own special wing to the west side. They weren’t spies for hire, but spies who worked on court orders. Many of them were fairies or wiccan. The Raichands hoped these individuals had something on the suspected werewolves in Dehradun, for their’s and Piya’s safety.

Siddharth knocked on the doors of the room they were looking for, stepping back. Mandu linked arms with him and gripped his hand. They could clearly hear the shuffling of papers and fluttering of wings.

On the other side of the door resided a warlock of about four centuries old, sipping on a cup of hot oolong tea. Blonde hair combed back, bright emerald green eyes, tattoos covering the length of his arms, and a mischievous smile. He pushed his round glasses up to the bridge of his nose and stood up, throwing the doors open with great fervor. Several fairies flew behind bookshelves, leaving trails of fairy dust and loose sheets behind them. They were very shy but observant creatures, which made them great spies. Another witch was passed out, face down, at her desk.

His smile grew wider upon seeing the identities of his guests. He hadn’t seen them in a while.

At long last, things will be interesting in this echo chamber, he thought.

“It always pleases me to see royalty at my doorstep.” He threw in a customary bow. Mandu cringed and tried to smile. Siddharth rolled his eyes. “It’s been so long since the King and Queen of the Pandher kingdom have come to visit me.”

They weren’t used to being called that anymore. Pandher, along with its history, took their former titles to the books. Siddharth only used the term “queen” with Mandu in an endearing context.

“Can we drop the formalities, Andreas?” Siddharth insisted. Andreas was a very dramatic and loud-mouthed individual, but had the capabilities to be level-headed if he needed to. He was one of the more experienced spies, hence the person most frequently in charge of the others.

“Oh fine, no need to get so serious.” He peered behind them and down the empty halls. “Your brother didn’t come?”

“He’s busy with other matters.”

“Shame. Do send him my regards.” He gestured them inside. “Keilani....” He called, waking up the other witch in the room. She rubbed her eyes and stretched. “We have guests. Fetch them some drinks, will you?”

She blinked twice, recognizing the two were vampires.

“And how are you both on this fine day? Lovely weather, isn’t it?” Andreas said, folding his hands behind his back.

“I would hardly call that storm outside lovely weather.” Mandu commented, a hint of snark in her tone.

“I suppose we should do something about that. It’s rather repetitive, isn’t it?” He pondered, staring out a window.

Keilani was fast despite having just woken up. She served the two and went back to her desk, falling asleep as quickly as she had woken up. The blood was surprisingly warm.

“We’ve been well. And yourself?”

“Quite well, if I do say so myself. Anyways, enough small talk. What can I do for you two?”

Mandu emptied her goblet in one shot, stepping forward. She set the empty vessel on a side table, crossing her arms in a show of steadfastness. Andreas was a tough nut to crack, despite his cheerful demeanor.

“Information. Can you provide it?” Andreas smiled at Mandu’s intensity of tone and laughed.

“Spoken like a true queen, Mandakini.” He sat in his chair and propped his feet up on the desk, the wood of the chair creaking as he leaned back. The tea sloshed around the cup from the vibrations, growing cold with passing time. “Depends on the information.” His tone finally invited caution, but he still kept a slight smile.

Siddharth stepped forward and sat on the edge of the desk, sliding the neglected tea cup towards Andreas. The warlock dropped his smile completely and remained blank faced, feeling the authority creeping from Siddharth.

Ah, the latent power of royals.

“Records on someone named Dipanita Khurana, if they exist that is.”

Andreas’ sudden cackle bounced off every wall.

“You know I can’t just give you those records, right? It’s confidential information.”

He was aware the Raichands had good reason for any request they made of anyone, but he wouldn’t let the knowledge allow him to bypass rules.

Mandu saw this coming and slid a stamped note in front of him. The stamp was of the main council. A written note of permission, signed by Seraphina.

Oh little Sera, you ruin the fun sometimes.

He stood up abruptly, taking a big sip of his tea. It had gone completely cold. A stream of fairy dust floated in the air at the snap of his fingers, startling Mandu. Some got caught in her hair. It smelled like honeydew.

The fairy grew to normal size and handed him not one, but two files. She shrunk again and flew off, dropping more dust onto Mandu’s hair. She brushed it off, only to find it multiplying on the floor. There was a small pile of it around her feet.

Siddharth tried to take the files, but Andreas cast a quick spell on them to make his hand phase straight through them. “Not so fast. Seraphina may have granted permission, but I still need a proper reason.”

“We have a suspicion that she is trying to target and hurt a human, based off a past vendetta. We thought to see if your spies knew anything about it.”

The existence of the files just indirectly confirmed it for them. Andreas mulled over it. “Fair enough. Be quick about it.”

“Of course.”

Mandu took Siddharth to the side, away from prying ears, examining the files together. The first one on Dipanita wasn’t too extensive, which was disappointing. But it was connected to the second, which bore the name Jeh Khurana. This one was much more detailed.

Both of their photos were attached in their respective files. Siddharth snapped a photo of Jeh’s. The most important detail in his file was highlighted at the top, above all the logs and entries.

Obsessive stalking, harassment, and life-threatening assault towards a human girl.

The pieces finally began to connect. The odd angles of the photos taken of Piya, her scars, the fear in her eyes. This mutt was the cause of them.

“This is absolutely vile.” Mandu hissed.

Andreas peeked over Mandu’s shoulder, curious in their exchange. She elbowed him in the ribs. To her dismay, it wasn’t enough to drive him away.

“I remember this case. That poor girl. She was in the hospital for a week or so, almost died.”

They both looked at him in shock.

“What? Did I say something I shouldn’t have?”

“No. It’s just—is he at least a captive here?” Siddharth asked.

“You’re not going to like my answer.”

“So no?”

Andreas pursed his lips and sighed. “This Dipanita offered to heal her, in exchange for a pardon. If the girl died, then her son would surely be down there right now. She promised to keep him away from her from then on.”

“That hardly sounds like a good deal. She didn’t stop him to begin with, why would she stop him after?”

He shrugged. “From what I remember, she kept insisting she was unaware of his behavior. It sounded convincing enough to the court. I believe the humans imprisoned him instead.”

Siddharth shut the file, handing both back to Andreas. “I hope you’re right about him. But Dipanita is in the same city as that girl, and we have a reason to believe she or someone connected to her is trying to harm her. It seems like you spies haven’t been doing your jobs correctly.”

Andreas chuckled, gesturing to the stacks upon stack of files around them.

“There are lots of troublesome supernaturals in this world, Siddharth, and only so many of us. We can’t keep watch on all of them all the time.” He leaned closer to Siddharth’s ear. “Insider secret, but after a significant amount of time of “acceptable behavior”, we are told to focus on newer infractions. Orders from upper management.” He pointed upwards and chuckled. “She probably thinks we’re still actively watching the both of them. The fear of it will keep them in check anyways. But our hands are tied.”

“That explains the rogue....” Mandu murmured. That rogue wasn’t connected to either of them at all. He was the perfect scapegoat.

Fear. Such a powerful weapon. The spies had used it well.

“It shouldn’t be surprising. If we can stop watching a group as potentially dangerous as your family, after a decade of inactivity.....”

Mandu shot him a glare, her eyes shifting to a dark violet.

“......then these puny werewolves are nothing in comparison.”

“My family is not dangerous.” She hissed. Siddharth took her hand, grasping it tightly. His touch let a wave of calm wash over her, quelling some of her rage.

They knew they had once been watched, but assumed it was because of unusual circumstances. The fear tactic never worked with them, as they were free of ulterior motives.

“Of course, we know that now. But how would we haven known back then?” He approached her calmly, with intent to recount a past tale. ”You three vanished as humans, on separate occasions, and then resurface together as vampires, all in the midst of a bloody war that your now dead sister started. Sounds suspicious, right? We just had to make sure.”

“She’s not my sister.” Mandu replied bluntly.

“History begs to differ.” He shook his head. “To my knowledge, Queen Mandakini Singh Pandher certainly had a younger sister. What was her name again?”

Siddharth was glad Abhay didn’t come with them. Andreas’ blood would’ve stained every piece of furniture in this room before he even got a chance to continue.

“Ah yes, Princess Maithili Singh Pandher.” The conjunction of sounds that formed her name rolled off his tongue in pure malice. “Your once dear sister and to my knowledge, Abhay’s wife?”

“Abhay doesn’t want anything to do with her.”

“I’m sure he doesn’t. It’s a pity, given so much pain by someone who he loved so much.” He wiped a fake tear, seeing the unpleased faces of his guests. “Oh dear, perhaps I’ve said too much...”

Siddharth scowled. He just about had enough. They had received the information they needed. There was no benefit to continuing this conversation further.

“I think we’re done here. Let’s go, love.” He took her hand and promptly left, without even a word of thanks.

By the time they emerged outside, the rain begun to incessantly pour. Mandu let go of his hand and broke into a sprint, standing silently in the center of the field. She closed her eyes, and tilted her head back towards the stormy sky. None of cold rain droplets couldn’t wash away the pain she was feeling. It was covered by a bandage that couldn’t be ripped off. The wounds underneath had never healed.

Siddharth went after her and hugged her from behind, rocking her back and forth against his body. She turned and pressed her face against his chest. Both their clothes were soaked with rainwater.

He knew she was trying to fight back tears.

“Relax....” He whispered. “Don’t dwell on his comments.” He brought her face up to meet his eyes, placing light kisses on her pale cheeks. The rich violet in her irises faded back to her soft green.

“I don’t want to dwell, but I can’t help it. I want to forget, but I can’t.”

The past would always haunt her. Maithili’s name would always hurt her. Even if she didn’t want either to be that way.

Siddharth just held her tight against him, giving her the support and comfort she needed. He could feel the intensity of her emotions and thoughts through just their touch. It hurt him so much more than it hurt her.

“I’m sorry.......,” she murmured, her voice shaking with remorse. “I let my emotions control me back there.....”

“You don’t have to apologize for anything.” He said, firmly. “He didn’t have to bring it up, but he did. This is on him.”

She nodded and clung to his soaked shirt, spending a few moments to calm down. He let go of her when he felt like she was okay and took her hand, their fingers gently intertwining.

“Let’s go home.”

————————————————————————

Abhay spent his night lounging in his room, staring at the villa outside his open window. He was hoping she would be practicing tonight, which is why he stayed home, but no such sound met his ears. He was grateful for a vampire’s sensitive hearing, which could pick up her playing from such a distance, but all he could hear tonight was the sound of crickets and his own breathing. The resulting boredom was making him thirsty. Two empty blood bags were already thrown into the trash, a third resting on his palm. He sighed and let his fangs pierce the third, draining its contents rapidly. The fresh blood stained the corners of his lips and ran down his chin.

He heard the basement door creak open, the scent of fresh rain mixing in with Siddharth’s and Mandu’s scent. He got on his feet and tossed the third bag into the trash, using a handkerchief to wipe his face clean. He made his way downstairs, feeling strong negative emotions from the both of them.

Mandu looked shaken up, and Siddharth mildly perturbed.

“What happened?” Abhay asked.

“Nothing. Andreas, as usual, couldn’t watch his mouth and deviated off topic again.” He slicked his wet hair back and shook the water off his hand.

Abhay raised an eyebrow. “How so?” He felt this wasn’t related to Piya.

Siddharth hesitated. If there was anything Abhay hated more, it was her. His reaction would not be a subtle one. He should’ve stayed quiet.

“Maithili.”

As he expected, Abhay’s expression and mood began to sour. Adding Piya’s predicament on top of that would send him over the edge.

“Of course he did,” He hissed sharply through his teeth, looking to the side. The sound was frightening. Mandu felt a pang of unexplained guilt and tried to calm him down, prying his fists open. His nails cut into his palms, black droplets staining his fingertips.

“Abhay, please calm down....” She whispered. He looked at her and managed a nod, seeing her distraught face.

There was an uncomfortable amount of silence before Siddharth continued.

“Anyways, regarding Dipanita....”

Siddharth recounted what they had learned about her and her son, Jeh. Every detail in both files.

“Here’s his photo.” He took out his phone and opened up his photos, pulling up the one of Jeh. He turned the screen to Abhay.

Abhay’s eyes widened, recognizing the man immediately. The same guy whose car he almost crashed into.

“That’s him. The reckless driver. He’s Jeh Khurana.”

Siddharth cursed under his breath. This was not good.

“So the b*stard’s not in jail. In that case, he’s probably looking for Piya as we speak.”

Abhay saw red. His power was begging for action and freedom, to let his rage make Jeh feel real pain. But he would only be satisfied if he ripped apart Jeh’s limbs himself. With his bare hands.

“No matter then, I’ll just go snap his spine in two right now. How hard could it be to find that dog?” Siddharth gripped his arm before he could leave and jerked him aside. They had to think calmly and practically. Abhay needed to escape the violent and irrational headspace he dwelled in currently.

“Abhay, relax. Don’t take any rash decision. We still don’t know much about these werewolves. I don’t want you to put yourself in danger.”

“And I don’t want to wait until Piya is in actual danger.” He hissed back, his eyes shifting cobalt. “You know I can take them. Nothing will happen to me.”

Siddharth managed to smirk, seeing a bright side to this chaos. Abhay really let the cat out of the bag this time. The concern for her was clear in his eyes, and in the firmness of his tone.

“I understand your concern. But we can’t risk it.”

“And Piya?”

“She’ll be okay. I know you’ll make sure of that.”

awesome chapter

uff that andreas he is such a pain in ass😡

he brought the past which hurt both siddharth & madhu🥺

so madhu's sister is maithali & she was married to abhay

look like something horrible happened in past that's why the past still hurt them💔

finally sid & madhu got the info they were looking👏

it was shocked for them that jay almost killed pia in past😲

on the other hand abhay was waiting for pia's music😊

abhay got really angry when he got to know what that monster jay did to pia in past

he want to give pain to that jay more then what he gave to pia👏

sid was surprised to see concern for pia

but he had to relax abhay before he do something that will bring trouble for them

hope now raichand know the truth hopefully they will save pia from that monster jay & his mom

continue plz

Originally posted by: cuteariya

awesome chapter

uff that andreas he is such a pain in ass😡

he brought the past which hurt both siddharth & madhu🥺

so madhu's sister is maithali & she was married to abhay

look like something horrible happened in past that's why the past still hurt them💔

finally sid & madhu got the info they were looking👏

it was shocked for them that jay almost killed pia in past😲

on the other hand abhay was waiting for pia's music😊

abhay got really angry when he got to know what that monster jay did to pia in past

he want to give pain to that jay more then what he gave to pia👏

sid was surprised to see concern for pia

but he had to relax abhay before he do something that will bring trouble for them

hope now raichand know the truth hopefully they will save pia from that monster jay & his mom

continue plz

Glad you enjoyed! Thank you 🤗

Chapter 15

Temptation and Obsession

Everything was a mess. Pillows were on the floor, and the blanket was hanging off the side of the bed frame, barely covering Piya’s body. The alarm clock was pushed too close to the edge of the nightstand, threatening to fall and break at the next slap of her hand. She woke up with the sunlight shining right onto her face and arms, rubbing her eyes. Her body ached from tossing and turning so much in her sleep. She felt uneasy.

Why does it feel like something is going to change soon?

She sighed and picked up the pillows and blanket, setting the bed neatly. The alarm clock was pushed back to its original position.

An hour late. Guess I’m not cooking breakfast today.

She began her day by staring into her closet, bringing a baby pink tee and dark denim jeans into the bathroom. She let her hair dry from a shower while preparing a small breakfast that consisted of an apple and one slice of buttered toast.

It was very bright outside, for a day in the middle of winter.

Abhay pulled up to the villa long before she left for the day. He decided the night prior that she would not be walking to campus anymore. It was too dangerous. Stalkers like Jeh had no limits to their disgusting behavior. Him being a werewolf on top of that made him much more dangerous. Abhay wished he knew more about the circumstances that led Piya to become an object of Jeh’s obsession, but only she could tell him the full story. He couldn’t ask on his own without inviting suspicion upon himself.

I won’t let him touch you.

He wanted nothing more than to crush Jeh’s limbs and organs with his bare hands, to watch him writhe and squirm with so much anguish that he would regret being born.

The sunlight ripped through some passing clouds, blinding Abhay with its light. His eyes were burning. He groaned and slipped on his sunglasses, anxiously tapping his foot in wait.

Piya felt much better after eating something, even after waking up on the wrong side of the bed. She glanced at the clock, setting her plate in the sink.

Of course I’m getting late!

She wasted no more time in gathering her things, rushing out the door to begin her daily trek, only to find Abhay standing outside, leaning back against his car. She stopped in her tracks.

Something about the way he looked in that posture sent sparks surging through her body. She gulped and tried to find her voice again.

Does he only own black clothing?

He was wearing a simple button down shirt, fully sleeved, and black pants.

It does suit him though.

“Abhay? What are you doing here?” He turned to look at her. Some part of him felt at ease on seeing her well.

“Starting today, you’re not walking to campus. I’ll drop you.” He opened the passenger door, giving her little opportunity to protest.

“But-“

“Argue all you want, but I’m not leaving, nor will I let you. The forest you’ve been walking next to is filled with wild animals. I don’t want another wolf attacking you.” This obviously wasn’t the real reason. The animals in this forest were mostly harmless. He couldn’t tell Piya that Jeh was in the same city as her, nor did he want Jeh to find her. This is the only way to keep her safe. “Get in.”

“Why are you so concerned for me?”

Aren’t you trying to avoid me, Abhay?

“I have my reasons.”

“May I know those reasons?”

“No.”

Piya frowned and walked forward, realizing he wasn’t going to budge. He was very stubborn. She got into the passenger seat, staring at him with suspicion. Abhay ignored the stares and shut the door, taking his seat.

Piya looked into her bag, remembering the recording she had made. But neither of their moods suited its reveal.

Next time, she thought.

She slumped back, watching the trees and other cars fly by. She didn’t try to make conversation with him, as the atmosphere between them grew too awkward. She didn’t have time to anyways; he was a fast driver. Abhay had pulled into the parking lot, next to the main gates. “We’re here.” Piya looked outside, looking glum.

“Thanks....” she murmured. She stepped out of the car, casting a backwards glance at Abhay. He didn’t move, not until she was safely inside the gates. Her not so watchful steps led her to bump into Kabir, who just finished parking. He saw Abhay in the car already. He was not happy.

“Oh...I’m sorry, Kabir. I wasn’t paying attention.”

“It’s okay, Piya. You go ahead. I’ll join you in a bit.” She nodded and entered the gates.

Kabir turned his attention to Abhay, angrily marching over to his car. Abhay smirked and stepped outside, quite eager to mess with this Rathore before he left. He had been bothering him in recent days, like a little pest. Abhay leaned against his car and crossed his arms. “How can I help you?”

“What’s the deal with you and Piya? Huh?” Abhay gave him an attitude-filled smile.

“Why? Are you jealous? I’m just being a good neighbor, that’s all.” The sunglasses were taken off. He stood upright with authority, staring into Kabir’s eyes, the way a predator threatens its prey before attacking. Kabir’s mind was throughly unnerved, though his body held its ground. “Is there a problem?”

“You...” Kabir’s hand shot up in Abhay’s face, his finger up to silence him. He clenched his fist and pulled his hand away. “Just stay away from Piya. I don’t want her to fall in bad company.” Abhay chuckled and shoved his hands in his pockets.

You’re wrong, Kabir. I’m not bad company. I’m your worst nightmare.

Abhay said nothing more and watched amusingly as Kabir stormed inside the gates. He had to make his own escape before anyone else knew he was here. He could just feel the single female population lining up behind the walls.

He reveled in Piya’s scent, that was now drifting about in his car. It put him at ease. The first of many walls that encased his heart had begun to fall.

——————————————————————

For a thirsty vampire, the concept of nightclubs was a blessing. Large crowds of humans gathered in one space, lost in inhibitions and loud noises, and lots of private areas to feed in. It was paradise.

The Raichand-owned Club Nightshade opened for business a year ago, as a hunting ground for their kind. Siddharth came up with the name as a joke, but no other names came to the table, so it stuck. Humans who came to this lavish establishment risked becoming a vampire’s snack, but didn’t have to worry about losing their life. Vampires were prohibited from draining their prey dry. The creation of the club came with the obvious business opportunity and also with the realization that a hospital supply was grossly unreliable. Taking too much supply could lead to a shortage for patients. Fresh human blood was a much welcomed change of pace anyways.

Abhay convinced Danish to come with them, lest he become a third wheel. Mandu and Siddharth stuck with each other like glue during hunts, leaving Abhay frequently by himself.

Today was slightly different. Mandu was dancing atop a bar table, letting the rebellious woman in her loose. Being from royalty came with its own set of rules and restrictions. With all of that gone, she told manners and etiquette to f*ck off and did whatever she wanted. It cheered her up just as well.

Abhay was focused solely on hunting, feeling starved. He needed much more blood than the rest. His throat was on fire. He couldn’t concentrate on anything else.

“I’m parched!” Mandu exclaimed. She hopped down from the bar and threw her arms around Siddharth. “Do you want to share one? I like the smell of that one over there. The red shirt.” She pointed towards a young man near the DJ setup.

“Sure.” He ruffled her hair. She grabbed his hand and pulled him into the crowd. They got to business fast. Sharing prey was considered an act of intimacy for vampires. Abhay didn’t understand it, but according to Siddharth, the feeling was highly sensual.

Danish returned from his first prey and wiped his lips with his handkerchief. Abhay was in a much more serious mood tonight.

“What’s wrong? Not seducing any prey?” He asked, resting his arm on the table. Abhay crossed his arms and scanned the crowd. “Oh I see, don’t want to betray your little human crush?”

Siddharth sensed his brother was being teased and returned to join the fun, leaving Mandu to dancing in the crowd. He slung his arm around Abhay’s shoulders.

“Such a loyal man my little brother is.“

Abhay rolled his eyes. “I don’t have a crush. None of them smell appealing. That’s all.”

“Since when have you become picky?” Danish asked. “Anyways, you haven’t told me her name yet.”

Abhay kept his mouth shut.

“He won’t say anything. He’s in denial.” Siddharth bounced up and down, trying to get Abhay to at least enjoy the music. “I’ll tell you. Her name is Piya.”

“Piya. I should introduce myself next time. Even I want to meet the girl who managed to grab my friend‘s attention.”

“Go ahead. Also, I’m not in denial.”

“That’s what someone in denial would say.”

Abhay looked annoyingly at Siddharth, who just broke into a whistle. He turned back towards the crowd.

“Fine, let’s try that one over there.”

At a short distance was one girl, her desperate gaze focused just on Abhay Raichand. Abhay settled for her and eagerly began his hunt, winking in her direction. He would show them the truth. He wasn’t in denial.

“Hello....” she purred. Abhay smirked and used his charms on her, whispering something in her ear and leading her into a secluded corner. She pressed herself into his body once they were alone.

“What’s a guy like you doing without company?”

Not entertaining you, that’s for sure.

“Who said I don’t have company?”

He let this human cosy up to him before putting his compulsion to work. Her eyes dulled and her body molded in his arms like putty. One could mistake them as a couple based off their movements. He drained her, but she didn’t taste as good as Piya. Yes, he had become picky. Her blood made him picky.

“Yep, he’s most certainly in denial.” Danish chuckled.

“Imagine if Piya was here. He wouldn’t even move.”

Abhay let the girl go after wiping her memory and searched for another, but he caught a familiar scent that made his own blood boil. He immediately followed it downstairs.

That dog, he’s here.

Abhay found Jeh weaving in and out of the dancing crowds on the lower level. He could tell he was looking for her.

Abhay watched the erratic behavior of this werewolf from an observable distance, scoffing at his obsession. It drove the fool mad. His intelligence was not as sharp as his aggression was. All brawn but no brains. Their eyes locked.

Jeh wasted no time in approaching Abhay. He had something Jeh had lost the last time they ran into each other. Piya’s photo. He grabbed him by the collar first and pushed him against the wall. Abhay didn’t even flinch. He actually looked bored.

“Fancy seeing you here.” Abhay said.

“Her photo. Where is it?!”

“What photo? Who’s her?”

“Answer me.”

Abhay let out a low laugh and pressed his fingers into Jeh’s throat, quickly overpowering him. He was weaker than he thought. But he chose not to underestimate. Whatever was hiding his true scent could might as well be hiding his true power.

You’re the last guy I have to answer to.

Jeh struggled to breathe under Abhay’s ever-tightening grasp.

“Leave—me...,” he sputtered. Abhay groaned and let go, letting him drop to the floor on all fours. His throat had red markings from his fingers.

“There. I let go.” He kneeled and grabbed Jeh’s collar. “Let’s make this more interesting. I did have your precious photo. But I threw it away. It’s probably in some garbage dump by now.”

Jeh’s eyes widened in anger. His Piya’s photo, in the garbage?

“You’ll regret your decision...,” he snarled.

“Will I?”

“Just wait and watch, Abhay Raichand.”

“Wow, you even know my name. Impressive. What else do you know about me?”

It wasn’t terribly difficult knowing their level of influence in the city.

“Stay away from her. She’s mine.”

This was the second guy warning Abhay to stay away from Piya. He reeked of insecurity, much more than Kabir. Abhay smirked and shook his head.

“So much obsession. It’s not healthy, you know? I don’t even know her.”

“It’s best if you don’t.” He replied. “You don’t want to know what I will do to you if you did...”

——————————————————————

Kabir looked rather upset, during practice and on the way to drop Piya home. His silence was unusual to her.

What happened to him?, she thought in worry. It was unlike him to refrain from conversation. She tapped his arm.

“Hey Kabir, are you okay?” He looked at her and smiled slightly. His mood was in a wreck since his confrontation with Abhay.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Why?”

“Nothing, you just looked upset. You were very quiet during practice too.”

Kabir sighed. He wasn’t the best at hiding his troubles. But he felt a bit of happiness seeing Piya’s concern for him.

“I’m just...thinking of a friend. He’s in a bit of a dilemma and I don’t know how to help him out.”

The friend was none other than himself.

“What is it? Maybe I can give you some advice?” Kabir laughed to himself.

“It’s okay, Piya. It’s....kinda silly.”

“Tell me, na. A dilemma is a dilemma. I’ll do my best to give the best advice.”

“Okay. Long story short, my friend likes this girl. They hang out together a lot, and wants to ask her out. But he doesn’t know if she likes him back. He doesn’t want to hurt their friendship if she doesn’t.” He paused, seeing Piya in thought. “There’s...another guy in the picture too. He doesn’t know if she has feelings for that guy either.”

“I see. I think...your friend should confess anyhow. Who knows, maybe she does like him back. But I personally feel he should not force her into anything if she isn’t interested. That way, their friendship and respect for one another remains intact.”

Kabir thought it over and nodded. That was his main worry, losing Piya’s friendship if she rejected him. “Thanks Piya. I’ll surely tell him this.”

“No problem. I’m glad to have helped.”

Abhay was wandering around near her villa, waiting until she was safely inside before he left. Jeh didn’t pursue him after their confrontation, contrary to expectations.

He saw Kabir’s car finally pull up, his eyes blazing cobalt as he saw the two laughing and smiling with each other. The jealousy raged the longer he watched the duo, his nails clawing into a nearby tree.

Piya bid farewell to Kabir, waving to him as he drove off. But instead of walking inside, she stared off into the forest behind her. The same place where she first saw him. She felt a strange presence, like he was there. He had been missing from her dreams lately.

You really are there, aren’t you?

She dropped everything and broke into a sprint, standing at the top of the path, searching desperately for him.

“I know you’re there. Why are you hiding from me?” She yelled into the trees. “Please, come out. I want to know who you are.”

Abhay stood frozen in place, wanting so much to go to her and show her his identity. But he couldn’t. His place was here, in the darkness. He could never step out into her light. Nature won’t allow it.

But Piya saw him. The cobalt irises that she admired so much were yearning to see her too. She ran down the hill and into the forest, before he ran away. If he wouldn’t come to her, she would go to him.

She wasn’t afraid of him.

Abhay waved his hand and hid himself in a veil of shadows, trying to force himself to step back towards home. But he couldn’t find resolve to leave.

He wanted to touch her. He wanted to taste her. Every fiber of his being began to burn and cry out for her.

What is happening to me?

It was a strong craving. He could already imagine biting into her soft, porcelain flesh, letting her velvety liquid flow endlessly down his throat. He could already imagine running his cold fingers and lips across her bare, warm skin. He panted against the chilled air, fangs out. They ached with want. Her scent was everywhere, her heartbeats ringing in his ears. He covered his ears with his palms, trying to silence the melodious sound, with no avail. His body burned with a deadly combination of carnal desire and bloodlust.

The power of temptation.

She took several steps forward, disorientated in his sudden disappearance.

By then, Abhay’s inner beast had assumed full control. And it wouldn’t back down until it got what it ever so desired. Her. He felt his fangs dig into his lower lip, the sharp canines glistening in the moonlight. His cobalt eyes swirled like a turbulent night sea, reflecting the havoc she had created within him. He dropped the veil of shadows and approached her from behind, footsteps so light that human ears could never pick up their sound. The crisp leaves remained intact under his footing.

I want........you....

Piya turned around, feeling his presence behind her. He immediately put his compulsion into use, putting her mind under a soft haze. The sparkle in her eyes dulled.

The chalice of temptation was poisoned, but he wanted to drink from it anyways.

Abhay licked his lips and brushed her silky locks back, his hand cradling the back of her neck. Her head tilted to the side. He traced her veins with his fingers, feeling the faintness of her pulse and the warmth of her blood. His lips touched her milky skin, his teeth gently tugging. His cold breath brushed across the marks he created with his teeth, causing her to shiver. He bit down with no hesitation, sucking greedily. Blood stained his lips and ran down the side of his mouth. Her fingers grabbed his shirt and pulled him closer, even though her subconscious was aware to its perilous situation and wanted to fight back.

His bite brought her pleasure, not pain. A sweet moan escaped her lips, giving the beast more encouragement.

Doesn’t she taste wonderful? The beast reckoned. Even she’s enjoying it.

Abhay tried to fight back as well, but the taste and fragrance tied him down. The blood bond was gaining strength once again.

Drink more. You know you want to.

Abhay broke away, staring at the bloodied, broken skin. He licked his lips clean and ran his tongue over the bite, healing it without scars. Piya‘s knees buckled under her. She was weak.

Give her your blood. Finish the bond.

He shook his head in vehement disagreement, instead using his healing powers to help her body replenish the lost blood faster. If he gave into such temptation any longer, there would be no difference between him and Jeh. He didn’t want that.

He looked Piya in the eyes.

“You won’t remember this encounter. You never saw me.” She nodded.

He vanished without a trace.

Piya looked around, the trance now broken.

Why am I standing down here?

Her neck felt oddly stiff, and her skin felt hot and flustered. She rubbed her arms and sighed, walking back up the hill to her villa.

Chapter 16

Hide and Seek

It was about time that Piya started to look for a job. Bills don’t pay themselves, after all. Most of her scholarship funds went towards her tuition fees, leaving little left for food, utilities, and casual spending. She was fortunate to find a cab to the city early on in the morning.

She used to give private one-on-one lessons back in Indore, and as such she wanted to find some sort of teaching related job here as well. She loved children, and she loved playing music. After all, make your passion your job and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.

The place she was looking for in particular was D’Souza School of Music. It was a famous academy, where it is said the city’s best musicians came from. She had sent them a few of her performance clips, along with her resume. To her joy, they called her in for an interview.

The building resembled an old European-style cottage, something she would find in the valleys of Switzerland. It was smaller than she thought, but it looked very cozy. She pushed the door open, a small bell ringing above as the door swung open.

Piya walked in and greeted the lady at the front desk. She was an older lady, looking about in her 50s, with a cute button-like smile and round glasses. Her name tag read “Julie”.

“Hello, dear. How can I help you?”

“Hello ma’am. I’m here for an interview actually. For the beginner strings teaching assistant vacancy.”

She lowered her glasses and smiled.

“You must be Piyashree.” Piya smiled back and nodded. “Right this way.” They walked towards the back hallway, which passed by each of the classrooms. There were kids of all ages in each, playing all sorts of instruments. They looked like they were enjoying themselves. It made Piya happy. She remembered her time in her music lessons. Her teachers had contributed a lot to her success today. Similarly, she hoped to give these children the same experience she had gotten back then.

The hallway ended in a nicer looking door, leading to a room that was occupied by a strict, portly looking gentleman, seemingly also in his 50s. He had thick glasses and a large handlebar mustache that tickled his nose each time he sniffled. He sounded sick.

“Piyashree dear, this is our school’s principal, Mr.-“

The introduction was interrupted by a loud sneeze, from the principal himself. Piya and Ms. Julie both jumped at the same time, startled by the noise. He blew his nose into his handkerchief, adjusting his glasses. He pushed them to the bridge of his nose and looked up at the two.

“D’Souza....” She finished. Mr. D’Souza let out a hearty laugh, clutching his belly. His strictness faded away with the sound of his laugh.

“Forgive me, dear. I’m running a little under the weather today.” He sneezed again. It sounded like a large boom. “Come and have a seat. I’ll be taking your interview today.”

Piya nodded and turned to Ms. Julie, who gave her a nod of good luck. She nervously clutched her bag, desperately praying to anything out there that she got this job. She needed a change of atmosphere between her house and the university.

“Shall we begin?”

“Of course.”

————————————————————————

Abhay felt a disturbance. His eyes closed, trying to concentrate on what his instincts were trying to tell him.

He saw brief, but vivid flashes of Piya, who was standing in front of a building downtown. All he could register on her face was fear. Her entire body was quaking with it. Close in front of her was that dog. Jeh. He had found her. He was staring right at her, with a threatening smile on his face.

I have to find her first.

He dropped whatever he was doing and took off into the forest depths. He followed her aura like a compass, reaching the bustles of the city in no time. Drinking her blood a few days prior had come to him as a blessing in disguise. He could sense her much better.

I’m coming, Piya.

————————————————————————

The interview went better than expected. To Piya’s delight, Mr. D’Souza seemed very impressed with her talents, previous teaching experience, and professionalism, and had happily told her to anticipate a phone call sometime in the coming week. Piya gleefully stepped out of the school, swinging her arms back and forth. Her light skips caught the attention of a few passerby’s. Her radiance shone for the whole city to see.

————————————————————————

Jeh was wandering aimlessly in the marketplace, spending most of his days searching for Piya. He was doing a good job of keeping crowds away from him after going to that nightclub, and that’s what he ended up wanting. The more people, the more scents he had to muddle through. He had an aggression in his stride and expressions that put people at an unease. His fingers twitched at the slight of any girl who sounded or looked even remotely like her.

He knew music was basically her lifeline, making any sort of music-related shop or building his main targets for his search. But his patience was wearing thin. He had no sign of her.

That is, until he caught her scent. The sweet blend of lavender and strawberries.

————————————————————————

Piya stood frozen in her place, not a sound or movement taking form in her body. He was here. He had found her. It was all over.

How? How did he get out of jail? Why is he in this city?

Her head felt light and dizzy, her body weakening with the presence of fear itself looming over her. Her vision blurred. She knew he was looking for her. But she didn’t know what to do.

You can’t run from him, Piya. He always manages to find you.

She didn’t understand how. Even if he hadn’t seen her, he would still find her.

Fear gripped her senses as he walked closer to her location. She recognized that face of insanity, of a psychopath. The scars on her waist began to throb and ache once again, reminded of their origin story. She gripped her side and pressed her fingers into the scars, trying to avoid crying out loud. She tightly shut her eyes, praying that he was an illusion.

Her prayers were worthless. He was very much real.

Would he kidnap her? Kill her? Both? She was not keen on finding out.

Moments passed as everything around her grew slightly darker. A strong hand pressed into her arm and pulled her away. She forced herself to open her eyes, ready to meet her doom.

But for some reason, her body relaxed. Like it did whenever her angel was around.

She was about to say his name, but he covered her mouth with his hand and shook his head, placing a finger over his lips. She almost started to cry.

You really are my guardian angel, Abhay.

Abhay saw Jeh from the edge of his peripheral, his jaw tightening as the b*stard got closer. He took Piya in his arms and turned her away from Jeh’s field of vision, shielding her with his body. He had to act fast; her scent was far too noticeable.

“Abhay, he-“

“Relax....” he whispered into her ear, just low enough to let her hear. She buried herself in his protective embrace and broke out in a quiet sob. Her tears soaked into his black turtleneck, the fabric amazingly soft. “Do you trust me?” He asked. She nodded. “Close your eyes.”

He made sure she was listening and held her tighter. A thick shadow formed from Abhay’s back, its tendrils engulfing his entire body, licking the sides of his forearms and fingers. He let it engulf Piya as well, masking her scent with his own, hiding them together in an artificial darkness. It blended them in with the darkness of the alley. Jeh was using her scent to find her. If that scent was cut off, then he would have nothing to follow.

The amount of fear he felt from her was something he had never expected from her before. Her entire body was shaking, her emotions in an unstable wreck. This incident had torn open wounds and fears that she had worked hard to repress over the years. But his aura was helping calm her down, making her lose herself in a sweet euphoria that was Abhay. She felt a strange, comforting warmth from his cold exterior, softly inhaling his rosy sandalwood scent.

Abhay scanned the area, keeping his eyes on Jeh, who was just a few feet away from the alley. He noticed the slight changes in Jeh’s expression. His precise movements altered themselves into cautious, erratic steps, indicating loss of her scent. Abhay watched him kick and dig his shoe into the marble of a fountain nearby, walking off with intense rage.

You can’t touch her, Jeh. As long as I’m here.

Abhay took a few moments to make sure Jeh had left, before checking on Piya. Her eyes were glued shut, her face buried in his chest. He absorbed the shadows, her scent slowly returning. “You can open your eyes now.” She did as she was told, her baby brown eyes gazing into those of her protector, her guardian angel, the man who had slowly become her own shadow. No matter how much he would avoid her, he would be there when she needed him. “He’s gone.” He brushed away some stray locks of her hair.

“How did you—“ He silenced her again, his finger poised lightly on her cherry lips.

“Let’s get out of here first. Then we can worry about your questions.” Piya frowned, but gave a slow nod of approval.

Abhay looked around and led her in the opposite direction of where Jeh had gone. He had to get her out of here before her scent had returned completely. Without thinking, he led her into the forest, the very place he wanted her to stay away from.

Piya let him take her into the depths of the forest, her head still throbbing in shock of the events that just transpired. Jeh was in the same city again; it would only be a matter of time before he began following her again. Abhay couldn’t save her every single time, after all.

They stopped at a large lake, far away from the city. Piya didn’t know such a beautiful lake even existed. What other beautiful secrets was this forest hiding from her? Abhay let go of her hand and sat down at the base of a large tree, staring out into the distance. “We’ll stay here for a bit, just to make sure he didn’t follow. I’ll take you home later.”

Piya nodded, fidgeting with her fingers. She sat down next to Abhay, leaning her head back against the trunk, closing her eyes. The control she had managed to wrestle her life into was slowly falling apart. First her father, then Jeh.

“Abhay, how did you know....about him?” Abhay glanced back at Piya. Thankfully, this was a question he could answer.

”Multiple unpleasant encounters can really make you remember someone. The first time was a near collision with his car. He dropped your photo after an subsequent argument. The second time was at one of our businesses, where he tried to threaten me about said photo. I didn’t trust his intentions. I was in the area and saw him close to you.”

Piya nodded and let out a painful sigh. She was sure he must have a million questions about this whole situation. Especially if he had met Jeh before. “You must be confused...about all this.”

Abhay stayed silent. His icy grey eyes reflected the quiet waves of the water.

“Are you not?” She questioned.

“I didn’t think you’d want to share.”

She let out a small chuckle. “Yeah...I didn’t think so either.” There was a brief pause, Piya trying to formulate a way to tell Abhay about her past. This was not a topic she talked often about. “But I feel I owe you an explanation at the very least.”

“If that’s what you want.”

She nodded in affirmation, parting her lips to begin her tale.

“This all started 4 years ago. Mamaji wanted me to complete my undergraduate studies in Indore, but I was stubborn. I wanted to study in Mumbai. I wanted to experience a new city. Looking back, I should’ve listened to him.”

Piya stopped and glanced at Abhay, scooting closer to him. He didn’t seem to mind. She hugged her knees to her chest and continued.

“His name is Jeh. I didn’t think he was all that bad at first. He was a friend of a classmate, and he sometimes came by to see my performances. He asked me out one day, but I rejected him. I wasn’t looking to be in a relationship, and I didn’t really have feelings for him either.” Abhay turned his head to look at her. He could tell this was helping her calm down.

“That’s when he started acting strange. He’d follow me home, force me to talk to him, write me strange, creepy and sometimes threatening texts, and send me these rubbish love letters supposedly written with his own blood. No matter how much I moved apartments, or changed my number, he always figured out how to get to me.”

“How long did this continue?”

“About a year and a half. I filed a case against him...after he tried to force himself on me.”

“Piya, if you’re not comfortable--“

She looked up at him, a single tear forming in her eye, and shook her head. She brushed it away quickly. “It’s okay...it feels nice actually sharing this with someone.”

“Are you sure?”

She nodded.

“He drugged me at a friend’s birthday party. Spiked my drink. To this date, I still don’t know how he got inside, since he wasn’t invited and there was strict security. He pulled me outside, behind the house, and tried to force himself on me. That’s how I got these.”

She lifted her shirt slightly, letting Abhay see the scars on her waist, the ones Mandu had seen earlier.

He’ll pay...I’ll make sure if it.

“Sorry, was that too graphic?”

Abhay shook his head.

I’ve seen much more graphic things in my lifetime.

“I don’t know what stopped him either. All I remember is him trying to rip off my pendant and subsequently recoiling in pain. He screamed so loudly that the others found me. But he disappeared before anyone caught him.”

Her fingers toyed with the same pendant, the moonlight reflecting off the small gems that made up the “S”. She felt like her mother was watching over her that day, and protected her from him.

Abhay knew exactly why. That pendant was made of silver. It should’ve burned his hand and disfigured it.

“I was in the hospital for a week or so because of the scratches. They wouldn’t heal for some reason, they just kept bleeding. And then one day, they vanished completely. It was so weird, even the doctors were shocked. I don’t remember much from my stay there though, besides Mamaji’s words of encouragement. He was so relieved when I was discharged.”

“Was Jeh ever found?” Piya nodded.

“He was missing for a few days after I left the hospital. We filed a report against him anyways, something I was afraid to do on my own. But I guess he came back thinking the coast was clear. He was caught and the case went to court, after which he was imprisoned. I transferred to a college in Indore and went to therapy for a year. Cut off everyone I knew in Mumbai, in fear that he would find me again. And now I’m here, telling you all this.”

Abhay didn’t say much else. His own curiosity had gotten the best of him. He stared at this beautiful creature sitting at his side. She was far from ordinary. They shared a bout of silence before he spoke up again.

“How do you do it?”

“Do what?”

“Smile. You’ve been through so much, yet you still have a bright smile on your face. How can you be so happy despite it all?”

He wanted to know. He had forgotten how to. They were both burdened by the scars of the past, but she was handling it so much better than he was. What was he doing wrong?

Piya giggled, showing him the same smile that confused him so much. She knew he was asking for himself. “I smile for the small things. It’s true, I’ve been through quite a bit. But I also know that there is a lot that I have worth smiling for. Like my violin, my friends and remaining family, my mumma’s memories, this lovely forest, and.....you too.” Her cheeks turned a bright red. For the first time, she mentioned how she was feeling about Abhay, to Abhay.

What have I done to make you smile?

He felt a rush in his cheeks too, a tingling sensation that he couldn’t make out. The atmosphere became awkward between the two, both turning away from each other.

I don’t know what scars you’re hiding, Abhay. I don’t know how many there are, or how big or small they are. But in spite of that, I earnestly hope you can find your own reasons to smile someday.

“You have a cute smile...” Piya murmured her continuing thoughts in a low whisper, not intending for Abhay to hear it. “I wish I could see it more...” He had heard it loud and clear. The comment had hurt him deeply, despite wanting it to feel good about it. He stood up, glancing around the forest.

“I think it should be safe to leave. I’ll walk you home.” Piya stared at him in disbelief.

“Did you not drive here?” Abhay stopped and rubbed his forehead, chastising himself for this slip up.

“I...did not.”

Why would he come all the way here on foot? And how did he find me at the right moment? How would he have known in time?

Piya’s confusion about Abhay grew. She examined his expression. It was the kind that screamed don’t ask anything.

“That’s okay. I like walking through the forest.”

“Let’s go.”

They walked side by side, a few feet apart from each other, refusing even a moment’s glance. Abhay seemed to be confident about directions, leading Piya to believe he spent his time in the forest often. It was like his second home.

She thought to ask about the mystery man, unaware of the fact that he was right here with her, this entire time.

“Have you ever seen anyone wandering in the forest before, with dark blue eyes?” Abhay looked at her.

“No. Why?”

“I’ve seen someone in the forest with such eyes. They seem so unnatural, yet so beautiful. Like bright, shining sapphires.” Abhay clenched his fist. “He always runs away when I try to talk to him though.”

“Are you afraid of him?”

She was quick to answer, with a small smile. “Not in the slightest.” Their dreams were proof of that.

You’ll regret your answer, Piya.

He looked at her. It was easy to say she wasn’t afraid, but if she learned the truth, running away would be her only option.

It took about an hour to walk back to their area of the forest. Abhay walked Piya to her door. “If you ever need to go out, call me. I’ll drive you.” Piya nodded.

“I’m assuming this is why you’re taking me to campus every morning?”

“Correct.”

He tried to leave, but she grabbed his sleeve. Her small fingers curled themselves into the fabric to ensure he wouldn’t run away from what she was about to say next.

“Thank you, Abhay...”

He pursed his lips and looked back. Her baby brown eyes, filled with immense gratitude, were imploring him to reply. He couldn’t refuse them.

“You’re welcome.” She smiled and let go of him, watching him descend the steps and disappear into the forest, like the shadow he was.

Chapter 17

What I Fear

In just a short span of time, Piya went from never seeing Abhay, to being with him on a daily basis, even if it was for a few minutes. He always wore business attire during the weekdays, surprising Piya in their varied colors. Still colors on the darker side of the spectrum, but colors nonetheless. Everything looked amazing on him. Abhay usually went straight to the office after he dropped her off at campus. Any other time, when he wasn’t busy, he’d wait patiently at a distance. Piya was actually starting to enjoy this arrangement. Not only was he keeping her safe from Jeh, his own demeanor towards her was slowly improving.

It was friendlier.

Today, she had meekly asked him to take her to a nearby public library. Even though he explicitly told her to call him if she needed to go out, she felt awkward in asking. She never knew what he was up to, so she couldn’t possibly know if she was disturbing him.

Luckily, Abhay never seemed to mind. Or, at least, she didn’t think he did. It was hard to tell. He kept the same blank expression on most of the drives they took.

How does he sit emotionless like that, so easily? It’s like he has a switch in his brain.

Abhay was reading her thoughts and was amused by her internal panic regarding his emotional state.

You won’t understand, Piya. Hiding emotion is easy when you’ve been doing it for centuries.

Piya looked back at him as she stepped out of the car, having reached the library. It was very big, and the smell of books floated out the doors and filled her nose. Abhay didn’t move a muscle.

“You can come inside too, you know?”

He kept staring out the windshield, lost in thought. “You go ahead. I’ll join you in a few minutes.”

“Alright.” She sighed and carried her bag into the building. She needed specific books for a paper that her music history class had assigned. The university library didn’t have the ones she wanted, so she came to this public library instead.

Piya stared at the signs fixed at the top of each bookcase, finding the one labeled “Music” against a wall towards the back. It was right next to the “Fiction/Fantasy” section.

She searched the shelves for the books she needed, collecting them in her arms. She stopped at the edge of the bookcase where the fiction section began. Her fingers fell on one book from this section, capturing her interest.

Otherworldly Phenomenons: Supernatural Creatures.

The title was over the top, for lack of a better word. It made her laugh a little.

Just as she reached for the volume, another pair of hands touched her own, reaching for the same item. And they didn’t belong to Abhay.

The two looked at each other. Piya gulped and lowered her gaze. It was too late to walk away.

“Ah, nice to see you here, Piya.” His voice incited a rumbling anger in her, like a volcano just waiting to burst. She gripped the straps of her bag tighter. Forcing even the smallest smile began to strain her jaw.

“Hello, Mr.Dobriyal,” she said, her fingers shrinking back. He saw she was going for the same book as him and shook his head.

“Oh go ahead, take this.” He handed her the book. “It’s nice to see another person display interest in the supernatural.”

She looked down, taking the book from his hands.

“Thank you.....”

“No problem at all. I hope you’re doing well.” Piya quickly nodded, hoping Abhay would join her soon.

“Yeah....I’m fine.” She turned back to her section, peeking around the corner at the door. Abhay just walked inside. He felt her unease and came to check on her, by her side in a matter of seconds.

“Piya, are you-“ He stopped, locking eyes with Arnab. Piya could definitely sense a rising tension in the air, between the two. She took a step closer to Abhay. He glanced at the books Arnab was holding and chuckled.

“Hello Mr.Dobriyal.”

“Hello Abhay.” The greeting sounded callous and disapproving. Piya still lacked the proper understanding as to why. All she remembered was Misha telling her that Arnab and the Raichands weren’t too fond of each other.

“I see you’re here with Piya.” He clearly sounded displeased with the situation. It wasn’t helping Piya with her own anger.

She positioned herself in front of Abhay, as if she was acting as his defense. He stared at her, confused by the mix of emotions he felt from her.

“I asked him to come with. The walk here is far from my house, so I needed a ride.”

Abhay was surprised by her tone. It was blunt and contained a hint of coldness.

Is it because of him?

“Is there a problem, Mr. Dobriyal?” He lifted an eyebrow. Arnab wasn’t able to pick up the nuances of her tone. He showed no reaction. Whatever it was, it was solely on Piya’s side.

“Not at all.” He laughed and turned to the shelves, looking through more supernatural titles. Abhay smirked to himself, following Piya away from the section. She looked very troubled.

“Are you okay?” He asked. She turned around, taken aback by the question, and nodded. But he could see it in her eyes. They didn’t meet his all the way.

You’re lying to me, Piya.

“I’ll go check these out, then we can go.” She still had the book Arnab let her take. Abhay hadn’t taken notice yet. It was underneath all the other books she had chosen.

He waited patiently by the door, locking eyes with Arnab every so often. He was moving around the area like a snake, clearly watching the two. He had no ounce of trust in Abhay.

Piya finished checking out the materials, quickly walking out the door, without looking back. Abhay followed closely behind.

She slammed the passenger door shut and subsequently broke down in her seat. Abhay quietly handed her his handkerchief, letting her wipe her tears with them.

“You must think I’m weird or something,” she muttered. “Hiding so many things and all...”

Abhay shook his head. It wasn’t like he wasn’t hiding things of his own. At least she had the luxury to express it. He envied her in that regard.

“Have you met Mr. Dobriyal before this?”

“Unfortunately, many times.” She fumbled with the diary in her bag and pulled the photo of her once happy family out of it, handing it Abhay without looking at him. Abhay examined the photo, recognizing this family wasn’t the one he was used to seeing in the Dobriyal house.

“He’s your father....” Piya nodded, biting her lower lip. The more she suppressed her tears, the more they began to drown her heart. In just a few days, her newfound happiness shattered at the hands of her past.

She mustered the courage to continue speaking.

“If you were wondering why I was in the forest that rainy night, it’s because of him. Misha took me to her house for a party. I didn’t know he was in this city, or that he had another family. I just....ran away from there. It felt suffocating.”

Abhay returned the photo, starting the car. He could see the mix of sorrow and hatred clear in her eyes and could hear it clear in her tone. Abandoning his daughter and wife like that, it was despicable. His own hatred for the man grew with this revelation.

“Sometimes I feel coming to this city was a mistake.”

Abhay stopped and looked at her. If she didn’t come to Dehradun, he would’ve never met her. That possibility hurt him. He gently placed his hand on hers, complete with intention. She looked back in surprise and wiped the rest of her tears. Abhay’s hand felt nice upon hers. It was comforting. It felt like a close friend’s. Maybe something more than that. His cold fingers gently curved underneath her palm, holding it tight with care. He couldn’t see tears in her eyes.

The trance between them broke, leaving both to pull away and stare straight out the windshield. Not another word was said between them.

——————————————————————

Arnab was feeling a strange pull towards that girl. Like he’s known her for a very long time. She reminded him of his daughter. Not Misha, but his older daughter. The one he had left behind 13 years ago. To this day, he regretted his actions. He wanted to find her, and give her the love and respect that she deserved since then.

“Papa still loves you, dear.”

He leaned his head against a bookshelf in a quiet aisle and sighed, leaving the library before he broke down again.

——————————————————————

Piya sat around on her sofa, staring at the cords attached to the ceiling fan sway back and forth. Her mood had taken a turn for the worst, and Abhay left a while ago.

The last saving grace for her day was a call from the music academy. She got the job, and was expected to start next weekend. The class was held once a week.

At least I have some sort of good news.

She glanced at her bag, pulling out the book Arnab let her have. She stared at the cover, amused by the highly detailed illustration on the cover. It wasn’t clear who the intended audience was, or how accurate this book was on anything really.

Supernaturals were called supernaturals for a reason. Beyond nature. Beyond mortal comprehension. If there were such things, then how would normal humans be able to write such an extensive book on them? It would be difficult to grasp any sort of related concept.

It’s probably made up stuff anyways.

She held it in her lap and traced her fingers mindlessly over the illustrations. Upon reflection, there was one thing she couldn’t comprehend. One person she couldn’t understand.

“Maybe this book can tell me something about him.”

The mystery man did seem otherworldly.

Her curiosity grew with the lack of dreams about him. Even if the dreams were gone, she still felt like he was with her.

What if he’s like a ghost or something? That would mean the forest is haunted.

She flipped through the thin, glossy pages, staring at the section titles that started with the name of each kind of supernatural.

Witches, werewolves, vampires, fairies....

She turned to the back of the book, finding the index. Anything on strange eye colors would suffice. That was all she had to go off of.

Her search led her to all sections, but the vampire one caught her attention more than the others. Because of the actual color. The dark cobalt.

She kept reading, finding characteristics that she had felt somewhere.

Cold skin, inhuman speed, sensitivity to sunlight and silver....

The list was sparse on its own, attributing to just general characteristics. She had seen this stuff in horror movies and tv shows anyways; it was nothing new.

All she could make sense of was the cold skin, which she felt whenever he touched her in her dreams.

I’ve only seen him at nighttime too.

But nothing else really matched up. She didn’t know much about him either.

Come on, Piya. This is a joke. Vampires? Really?

She shut the book after a few minutes and laughed to herself. This was a waste of time.

There’s no such thing. It’s all make believe. Maybe he’s just a figment of your imagination. Maybe you’re going crazy.

She shoved the book back into her bag and took out the other books instead, eager to be genuinely productive and finish her paper early, to make room for more violin practice.

——————————————————————

Abhay sat on the balcony railing, a glass filled to the brim with blood, twisting about in his fingers. Piya’s voice recorder was in the other hand.

She left it behind intentionally, having taken it out of her bag and placed behind her on the seat as he drove her home. He was unsure as to why until he played it for the first time.

It was the piece he wrote. The one he played for her. She added her violin to it. This addition added more depth and beauty to an otherwise incomplete sound.

She didn’t mention it directly. A surprise, maybe?

He replayed it countless times already, having spare batteries at hand if needed. His lips curled in a small smile, until he remembered her words.

You have a cute smile....

I wish I could see it more...

Her words stabbed at his heart, erasing his smile, trying to free the emotions that he had trapped within it.

I have no right to feel this way.

He sighed heavily and took a sip, kicking his feet into the open air that surrounded him. He tucked the recorder safely into his pocket.

Siddharth saw Abhay in deep thought, joining him with his own glass of blood and a bottle of champagne to enjoy later. Despite Abhay’s different mannerisms and visual cues, Siddharth always figured out when he needed someone to talk to. They were brothers, after all.

There was a time when Abhay used to share everything with him, the word hesitation non-existent in his dictionary. That all changed after he had turned. Now Siddharth had to force things out of him. He hated doing it, but it was the only way for Abhay to share his troubles and lighten his burdens.

He set the bottle down on the floor behind them and kicked his feet up over the railing, taking his place right next to his brooding little brother. He placed his arm around Abhay’s shoulders and took his first sip.

“What’s with the champagne?” Abhay asked.

“Thought we could share it.” He extended his glass for a toast. Abhay managed to smile a little and returned the gesture. The glasses clinked together. “Maybe even pretend to be drunk off it.”

“If only. Where’s Mandu?”

“She kicked me out of our room for some alone time. Probably soaking in the tub with a book.”

“I see.” Abhay looked into the swirling dark liquid in his hand, taking another long sip. He kept staring at the villa in the distance, wondering what Piya was up to.

Siddharth followed his gaze and landed on the villa, smiling softly. “Thinking about her, huh?”

Abhay looked away in embarrassment and shook his head.

“You really think I can’t tell? It’s so obvious, little bro. No matter how much you block your thoughts from me.”

“It’s...not that.”

Siddharth shrugged. “Alright, keep lying to yourself then.”

Abhay looked at Siddharth, who was now ignoring him and staring up at the moonlit night. Abhay looked up with him, watching the stars twinkle in harmony with the spatial darkness above.

“The night sky would look so dull and dark without the stars and moon, don’t you think?”

“I suppose so.” Abhay said, mulling over his feelings. He envied the night sky. Its darkness could embrace the moonlight and call it its own.

He wanted a light too.

“What are you afraid of, Abhay?” Siddharth asked bluntly. Beating around the bush would only make it easier for Abhay to deny his feelings.

“Her.” He replied, staring at the villa again. He was afraid of Piya, and what she was doing to him. The many walls he carefully set up around his heart should’ve been immensely difficult to tear down. But she was different. She made it look easy. So easy that I scared him. A single tear rolled down his cheek, the small black droplet glistening like an immaculate shard of obsidian, falling down into the trees below.

“A centuries-old vampire, afraid of a human?” Siddharth chuckled. “I believe it’s supposed to be quite the opposite.” He pat Abhay’s shoulder, having seen him cry. “You feel something for her, don’t you?”

“Why does it matter?”

“Because the Abhay I’m used to seeing would never be this protective of a human.”

“I’m just doing the right thing. No one should have to experience what Jeh has done to her.”

“So you do care?”

Siddharth knew Abhay didn’t naturally hate humans. He had no reason to. Abhay taught himself to hate them, to avoid accidentally building a meaningful relationship with one.

He was breaking his own rule by being with Piya so much.

“You know, I’m starting to think she could be your soulmate. The emotion I see in your eyes for her is something rare in itself.”

“What nonsense. I would’ve known if she was.”

Vampires could identify their soulmates almost immediately, affected by a strong pull and craving towards the other. Abhay felt something like this the first night, but his obstinacy obscured rational thinking. He linked it to just bloodlust. Thinking about a soulmate would be the last thing he ever did.

“Maybe some part of you does know, but the rest of you is denying it much more strongly. You know, but you don’t.”

The notion forced him to think. Was this the reason he was drawn to her? The way he craved for her was unusual. She was just an ordinary human.

It hurt to think about.

Abhay shut his eyes, sifting through the emotions he was feeling. Sorrow, anger, maybe regret? At himself, or at her? Siddharth was right. Part of him didn’t even want to know. Part of him hoped he didn’t have a soulmate. He was used to being on his own, how much different could it be? It was certainly better than the alternative.

His palm pressed into the marble railing, small bits of paint crumbling and falling to the ground. It was reminiscent of their first dream, where his single touch, no matter how gentle, caused her to shatter and crumble right in front of his eyes. He was her destruction.

Soulmates don’t destroy each other.

“I can’t have her, Siddharth. That’s not how nature intended it to be. That beautiful flower, I’ll only destroy her. She’ll wilt in my hands.”

This was the first time he called her beautiful, out loud. The first time he was honest with himself.

Siddharth sighed at his dramatics and grabbed the champagne bottle, popping the cork open with a flick of the fingers.

“Nature doesn’t intend a lot of things. Frankly, I don’t give a damn about nature.” He filled their now empty glasses. “It didn’t give a damn about us. So why should we?”

Abhay could feel the distaste in Siddharth’s voice. He knew the source of this distaste, but unlike Siddharth, he believed he was to blame for whatever happened, not nature.

He was the one who broke the rules.

Siddharth saw right through him.

“Nature allowed Maithili and her kind to exist, didn’t it? Do you think that was in good, balancing intentions?”

Maithili. Abhay scowled.

“You loved her with all your heart, and what did she give you in return? Just pain.”

Abhay didn’t say anything.

“You’ve caged your own heart because of her. And now that girl, that Piya, is trying to free it. Don’t be afraid of that. Don’t be afraid of her. You yourself know, how special she is.”

Abhay couldn’t take it anymore. He turned towards Siddharth and lashed out, the glass fracturing under his grip. “And then what, Siddharth? Should I watch her suffer in the same way we had? She’s crossing a line that wasn’t ever meant to be crossed. She won’t go unpunished. I can’t do that to anyone, let alone her.”

He took a deep breath and controlled his outlandish tone.

“My love for Maithili ended up destroying us all. We all lost our humanity, Siddharth. We lost our families to the jaws of death. And we couldn’t do a damn thing about it.”

That was the root of his fear. He feared that if he crossed that fragile line between natural and unnatural again, the entire universe would come together just to punish him for it, like it had back then. Piya’s destruction would be his punishment.

He could only be Piya’s shadow. Nothing more. But now, he didn’t want to become anything less.

“I can’t put Piya at risk for any selfishness of mine.”

“Even if she’s your soulmate?”

“I’m telling you that’s impossible.”

“Nothing is impossible. There used to be a time where we thought this whole supernatural world was a figment of imagination. Impossible to exist. And now, we’re living in it.”

“I can’t.....”

“You can. I’ve noticed that whenever you decide to stay away from her, something happens to void that decision. Maybe fate wants this.”

“Maybe fate doesn’t know what it’s doing.”

Siddharth sighed and handed him the rest of the bottle. They sat in a somber silence for a while longer. Eventually, Siddharth broke into a small chuckle, thinking about the absurdity of it all. Their past, their lives, and how something that happened so long ago still held its ground over their now. He tilted his glass back and forth, watching the last of the alcohol slosh around. “Man, I really wish we could get drunk.”

“Agreed....”

Another silence.

“I just want to see you happy, Abhay. I know we all tease you about it, but seeing you smile so openly after so long, it makes us happy too.” He took his last sip. “Heed my advice, and give whatever this feeling is, a chance. I’ll fight nature for you, if necessary.”

“That’s a very bold statement.” Abhay gave a somber chuckle.

“And I plan to stand by it.” He hopped off the balcony. “Let’s go bother your bhabhi for a bit. I think she’s done with her bath.” Abhay nodded, taking one last look at the villa.

sorry for being late dear

all the chapters r mind blowing👍🏼

awe abhay being so protective toward pia😉

he went to drop pia at collage😃

pia was so clueless abt abhay's behavior

uff that kabir & jay warned abhay to stay away from pia

like their threaten gonna work on abhay

on the other hand pia went to find job & she got it

but all her happiness vanished when she saw that dog jay

pia was getting hard time to control her fear she was shaking 🥺

glad abhay drank pia's blood coz of that he could see pia in danger👏

so glad abhay reached to pia before that jay could see her🤗

somehow abhay saved pia for now but don't know for how long

pia calm down in abhay's presence😊

finally pia told abt her past what that dog jay did to her

seriously that jay is so disgusting how dare he tried to force himself on pia😡

abhay want to punish that jay more hopefully abhay will do it

love abhiya little convo

awe pia told abhay that he makes her happy😃

abhay was so surprised to hear

awe pia want to know abt the guy she met in forest but abhay isn't ready to tell her that was him

poor pia seeing arnav all the wounds open it was hard to control her anger🥺

abhay was surprised to see pia's behavior toward arnav😲

at least pia told abhay the truth & abhay was shocked😲

wow pia don't believe in all the supernatural thing

glad sid came to talk with abhay abt pia😊

abhay tried hard to denied his feelings for pia

sid is ready to fight for abhay with anything🤗

hope both abhiya will accept their feeling for each other

continue plz