| Abhiya FF - His Firefly | COMPLETED Chapter 108 Pg 88 - Page 16

Chapter 38

Relations Doomed

Buried deep within the locked compartment of his closet lay a torn up photo, held together with thin strips of tape, and its accompanying letter, amongst other items like watches and rings.

Some things were unforgivable, but their severity was obscured by the passage of time. It took much thought to admit that his relationship with his father wasn’t as strong as it used to be. The reason, well, Arnab never figured it out. He brushed it off back then as the beginnings of a growing teen’s rebellious phase, though Sameer was much more levelheaded than that.

Sameer never told his parents that he knew. It was unhealthy, he admitted, to keep the knowledge bottled up, but it was too late now. The matter was kept so tightly under wraps that even he forgot of it until recently.

Everything is fine.

The photo had them both, the other woman and her daughter. On the back, written in pen by a child’s unsteady hand, read “World’s best papa is Piya’s papa.”

The letter was addressed to Arnab, written by the woman, talking of how much Piya was missing him, and how she hoped he’d come home soon. Seemed like they weren’t the only ones met with never-ending business trips. The faded date, indicating it written long before everything fell apart, passed his eye. He had picked it out of the trash back then, taping the pieces back together to see who they were.

Our family will never be the same because of you.

Arnab cheated his family, and Madhu swept his mistakes under the rug for no one to find, for them to forget. Sameer, he held grudges. Hard grudges.

At least Misha won’t ever know of them.

Even if Madhu gave him an ultimatum, even if Arnab chose them in the end, the stains of infidelity still showed. It took years of Sameer’s childhood for their relationship to reach where it is now. At least Madhu was lucky not to know the girl’s name; she refused the knowledge outright when they were fighting.

Eavesdropping was bad manners, but he used to do it anyways. And based off what he used to hear from time to time, Arnab never seemed to forget them.

No wonder he was staring at that Piya so strongly.

Sameer saw Misha from his peripheral, and locked the contents back in their place. He pretended to read through some office-related files. She frowned, snatched them out of his hand, and threw them into another drawer.

“Come on, Sammy. What happened to no work?”

He retrieved the file, wearing a smug grin. He ruffled her curls.

“My little sis is such a bore, what else can I do?”

He leaned back against the trim of the nearby dresser and feigned a deep yawn, taking to reading again. Misha frowned and began to play hit him.

“I’m boring? Me? Misha Dobriyal?”

She grabbed one of his pillows and smacked him with it. So what if he was taller than her, she was stronger.

“Hey—“

Competitive spirits arose between the two. He grabbed another pillow and fought back. They tore under the stress and ultimately burst into a flurry of feathers, littering the floor.

“Oh shit.....” She muttered, stepping back. The empty covers dropped to the floor. Sameer burst out laughing.

“That’s so unlucky. Well, have fun cleaning it up.” He flashed a wide grin, grabbed his file, and tried to run.

“Oh no you don’t.”

Misha grabbed his shirt from behind and yanked him back. He landed with a thud atop the bed, loud enough for it to echo downstairs.

“Sameer?” Madhu called. She was sure the sound came from his room.

They froze and looked at each other, shoving the evidence into each other’s hands, as the stairs rattled with walking steps. Misha pulled him upright. They both starred at the door with wide eyes.

“We have to clean this! Before mumma sees.”

“What do you mean we? You started it!” He tried to escape, but she grasped his hand.

“I’ll buy you ice cream! From your favorite parlor. Please?” Misha pleaded. She already got scolded earlier for a poor mark or two. It was now a life or death situation.

He sighed and they both got to work. Arnab was just faster, having heard the noise from his office. He caught them in the chaos before their mother.

“Papa, we—-“

“Shhh...” He put a finger to his lips. “Give me that last one.”

Misha’s jaw dropped in elation and quickly handed him the second to last pillow sitting on the armchair.

“You’re the best, papa!” She squealed. Arnab smiled and held his finger steady. He was about to make the mess worse. He stood behind the door, arming the pillow in his hands.

“What happe—“

Madhu’s jaw dropped at the mess. Just as she was readying herself to yell at the siblings, the pillow met the front of her face.

“Arnab—“ She fumed. He laughed and turned away.

Sameer quietly handed Madhu with the last pillow, and the chaos continued. Feathers and laughter filled the room, falling upon their faces and tangling themselves in hair.

Sameer hadn’t laughed like this in a while. This jubilant scene, this happy family, he wanted to keep it. He knew not where those two were, and even if they were near, he would stand between them like a wall. It sounded selfish, but he was selfish. No Piya could break what he wanted to keep intact.

——————————————————————

“I wish you were with me, mumma. I wouldn’t want anything else.”

She clutched the photo frame to her chest, breathing in a heavy sigh that made her heart ache. Sleep evaded her for all hours, forcing her to call in sick at work. Having no energy to do anything, she lazed around thinking of what happened the night prior.

The laptop screen flickered in and out of sleep mode, lying by her side, for what seemed like a couple hours. Piya tapped her fingers on the touchpad, viewing the absurdities she typed into the search bar earlier.

Typing in “dark blue eye color”, or “person with cobalt eyes” into Google just brought her to ads for online stores selling colored contacts lenses, and badly photoshopped photos. “Glowing tattoos” gave her links to tattoo parlors that specialized using in glow-in-the-dark inks.

She cycled through the tabs a couple more times and then closed her laptop. The internet was not very useful to her searches.

Her head spun, stomach rumbled. It was difficult to find motivation to care for herself in this state, no one to check up on her, whilst living alone in this house without a soul to talk to. Sugandh’s portrait would have to do.

“I really should eat something......” She mumbled to herself. Even her voice lacked life. Dry and scratchy.

It was a repeat of the worst days with Jeh, where he would roam outside her apartment for hours on end, and refusing her constant pleas to leave her alone. His hostility stressed her out the same.

But there were larger forces at play here, this time. Forces she couldn’t wrap her head around.

Doesn’t he have interest in these things?

Piya thought of Arnab. She could ask him. Not only had he lived here for long, he held knowledge and interest in these unusual topics.

But do you really want to give him another chance to talk to you? Or to recognize you?

It was too risky. She narrowly slipped by last time. If he didn’t drop the suspicion, going there wouldn’t help her.

Who can I ask then?

Asking Abhay, or any member of his family, would likely lead to deflection. They did it frequently.

She looked back at the photo.

Hey mumma, if ghosts are real, would you come see me?

Her fingers caressed the frame. It would feel less lonely that way. A friendly ghost was better than nothing.

She stood up, reaching for a glass of water at the table. The winds rattled the trees outside. Once a branch hit the window panes, she jumped, completely startled, and dropped the glass onto the floor. It shattered to pieces on impact.

Her heart beat out of her chest. Not in the good way. Not in the way Abhay made it sound.

A soft knock on the door then caught her attention, as she cleaned up the mess. She looked up. Was it him?

Abhay?

Just thinking of him seemed to act as a summon for him. He kept messaging her throughout the day, asking for her well-being. The amount was surprising, even for him. But she got the impression that he was busy, so he couldn’t see her in person. Hence the messages.

She wrapped a thin shawl around her shoulders, peeking out the curtains. It was a Raichand, but not Abhay. It was Mandu instead. Piya opened the door and smiled.

“Sorry. You were expecting Abhay, weren’t you?”

Piya blushed, mouth opening and closing, unable to respond. She noticed Mandu was carrying something in her arms. From the looks of it, it was a lunchbox.

“I wasn’t sure if you had eaten.”

Piya shook her head. It’s like she read her mind.

“I was too tired to eat, if I’m honest.” She gestured inside. “Come in.”

The dark circles underneath her eyes didn’t go unnoticed. Mandu touched her cheek and coaxed Piya to look her way. It was evidence that she was in fact there last night.

She was a little shaky too.

What did she see?

“You look exhausted.”

The stress was affecting her health in bad ways. She could only nod.

“Don’t worry! I’m sure some company and food will help.”

Their intuition was scary accurate.

Mandu sat her down by the kitchen table and opened the lunchbox for her. Piya quietly watched her arrange the small dishes, mouth watering. It was nice to have another voice in the house.

*Did you send her in your place, mumma?*

“I promise it’ll be better than Abhay’s this time.” She joked. “And definitely Siddharth’s.” Piya mustered a laugh.

“It smells really good. Thank you so much.” She gazed upon the dishes, not knowing where to start.

“You’re very welcome. Now eat up, you’ll feel much better.”

Piya looked her way as she sat down and pushed one of the metal tins forward.

“You can have some too.”

“Oh no, it’s alright. I ate earlier.”

Have you ever seen them touch food?, Piya asked herself.

She held in her thoughts and focused on the food. It was delicious, and washed away fatigue.

“It’s like medicine, except it tastes good.”

“The beauty of good home cooking, right?”

She voiced her agreement, though still of low-volumed tone. Mandu let her eat in quiet for a little before continuing the conversation.

“If there’s something on your mind, you can always tell me, you know?”

Piya looked into her gentle green irises. Mandu‘s words held sincerity. Maybe she would clear some of her doubts. It wouldn’t hurt to try.

“It’s nothing. You’ll think I’m crazy.....” She played around with a spoon.

“I won’t, that would be rude. Is it about Jeh?”

Piya shook her head.

“Surprisingly no. His behavior, even if terrible, hasn’t been as much of a problem this time around. I rarely see him, and I’m glad for that.”

You’d think that is good, Piya. But I still worry. We don’t know what he’s planning.

She placed her hand over Piya’s, and implored her to speak her mind again.

“Then....Abhay? Did he say something to you?”

She was quick to answer that one.

“No no.....that’s impossible.”

“Then?”

Piya swallowed, and looked down at her feet swinging above the floor. Her fists pressed into her thighs.

“I....I was in the forest last night.” She touched her neck, feeling her voice slipping away as it did back then. “There was a man. He talked to me, said some strange things. Did some strange things. From what I could see, he didn’t look....normal.”

She mentioned details, and besides the red runes, couldn’t explain his physical features. It was hard to remember them for some reason.

So a Vitael threatened her?

Tears dripped from her eyes. Fear, of that and of being judged, built up her emotions. Mandu stood up and went around to embrace her.

Who were they?

At the very least, it seemed like she didn’t see the dead vampires. The person she talked about possibly didn’t let her.

“It’s okay.” She stared out the window into the depths of the forest, stroking Piya’s hair. “There’s some odd phenomenon out there, especially in this city. I’ve heard stories.”

“Do you believe in such things?”

She let out a low chuckle.

I kind of have to.

“I’m not really sure myself,” she lied.

Piya looked up, finding the same sincerity in her eyes. Mandu wiped her tears and cupped her cheeks. There was still some food left.

“Now how about you finish eating, and then we’ll spend the rest of the evening chatting? It’ll ease your mind. What do you think?”

“I would love that.”

She felt cared for. If she had another sibling, she would want someone like Mandu. Maybe even Mandu herself. If she didn’t mind.

Just as she was finishing the last few morsels, her phone rang, lying on the floor somewhere near the couch.

“I’ll bring it.” Mandu said.

She picked it up and handed it to Piya. It was just one of Praveen’s calls.

“Sorry, I’ll just take this.....”

“No worries. Take your time.”

Piya went off into her room and answered the call. In the meantime, Mandu decided to look over some of the photos she had hung up around the living room. Many of them were with her mother, and some were of awards ceremonies for music competitions.

It was hard to focus her attention completely on them. Thinking of what Piya might have seen, she lost spatial awareness while admiring the frames, hitting her shoulder against a stack of books laying upon the mantle. Piya stuck her head out momentarily to see what happened, and saw her picking up the books.

Mandu’s eyes fell upon the thinnest one in the pile, making understanding of the letters that filled her to the core with an additional fear and awareness of risk, of being discovered.

Pandher? Why is she reading this?

It fell flat on one of the pages, creasing the paper in place where it had been folded before. Inside were pictures that were like memories to her. She recognized most of the people and objects in every photo. Somewhere in the middle, a portrait of her parents. Her fingers caressed their still faces.

Maa...Baba.....

She was glad for a vampire’s sharp memory. After this long, it was possible she would forget what they looked like without it.

Piya ended the call and watched Mandu’s reaction upon seeing the book. She looked almost reminiscent, like she recognized all that it said.

Mandu turned around as Piya approached her, placed the books back on the mantle, and regained composure. Her bright smile was now unsettling. Shaky, and ready to crumble at the slightest touch.

Are you hiding something as well?

“Sorry, I should’ve watched where I was going.” She frantically brushed her hair behind her ears. “Is your uncle doing well?”

Piya nodded and stared the book’s spine.

“It’s....it’s alright. The books, I mean.”

Mandu was clearly uncomfortable. Not at the prospect of her own past, but other consequences it would create.

Isn’t this what needs to happen? Why are you worried? She’ll have to know.

Perhaps it was because of Piya’s state. Whatever she saw last night frightened her enough to make her ill. How would she react to learn their family’s darkest secret?

Siddharth said he had faith in her, but how much of it was a guess. She was just a human, after all.

Her personal secrets were fine to expose, but with them, everything else would spew out. She worried for Abhay. It would hurt more than just a simple rejection.

Would she accept them? Would she accept him?

Chapter 39

Small Confessions

Beneath the surface in a maze of crypts, Siddharth walked alongside some of the clan. It felt like he was brought prisoner, moving slowly in the center of miffed vampires. They called him here to discuss an important matter, a concern that Abhay was to keep his ears away from.

The ceiling leaked from the ongoing downpour, dripping above and onto their heads. A musty scent spread in the narrow hallways, parting gifts from the growing mildew around the cracks.

We should really fix these leaks if this continues. The smell....

Siddharth wrinkled his nose. It was an abandoned meeting place, last visited some 30 years ago, showing its age by means of dilapidating structure. No wonder they brought him here. It was only known to the clan. No one would think to come here just on a whim.

I have so many better things to do.

He didn’t want much to do with clan-related decision making anyways. It was mainly Abhay’s job. The time where he had the power to do so was long gone. Back in simpler times, and nothing to do with this world. Supernatural affairs were much more complex than any human ones he had ever seen. Besides, Abhay had a few more years as a vampire than he did.

He smiled anyways and gestured the silent vampires to speak. He wasn’t sure why they only asked for his audience, but decided to entertain them. A possibility dawned on him after a few moments of thinking.

Ah, of course. They don’t want Abhay to hear, and they already don’t trust my darling Mandakini.

“Well?”

He stared around the circle of faces, ranging from disapproval to anger. Shoving his hands into his pockets, he tapped his foot impatiently as the silence continued to deafen.

He then glanced at his watch.

“Time may not be precious to our kind anymore, but I can’t wait here forever. Someone, speak up. What is it that Abhay can’t address?”

“This is concerning him.”

Siddharth narrowed his eyes. They were terrible at giving specifics. Or afraid.

“Can I know what exactly? Or are you all going to continue beating around the bush?”

“As his brother, you should know. Or are you feigning ignorance?”

“What are you insinuating?”

Hostility replaced the varying emotions of every vampire in the room. It was unsettling, even for Siddharth.

“That girl. His human pet.” She spat. “He’s awfully close to her, isn’t it? We’ve been taking notice.”

Siddharth grit his teeth and palms tightened into fists. He didn’t realize this would become another obstacle. Now he understood why he was called instead of Abhay himself.

“Dare call her a pet in front of him.”

A threat enough to rattle a few. Provoking Abhay in such a matter was a mistake few made.

“Precisely why we asked you to come alone.”

“I suppose that’s wise.”

It was expected of these particular vampires. Those that didn’t trust his wife were also displeased with his brother now.

“Talk some sense into him. That girl is becoming a distraction.”

He scoffed and examined the faces closely. Rudra, the vampire who led them to the first dead last night, was there too, cowered in the back. He almost didn’t take notice of him. Besides a few stares from the rest during their anniversary party, it was possible he mentioned something to them about Abhay’s concern for Piya that night. He looked solemnly at the floor.

Siddharth shook his head, locking eyes with each one in a chilling stare.

“I have nothing to talk sense into him for. It’s been a while since I last saw him happy. I will never, and I repeat, never take that away from him.”

It wasn’t the answer they wanted or even hoped for.

“And what about our clan? Should he abdicate responsibility to care for some human? Our lives are in danger and he has only time for her.”

“He won’t ever do that. He knows his responsibilities, and he’s doing what he can.”

“It’s hard to believe, seeing how much he’s invested in her. We’ve all seen it at some point, even while simply lurking.”

“And?”

“If we get rid of her?”

A major mistake.

“If you all really wish to die yourselves, by all means. But I won’t stop Abhay.” He crossed his arms, leaning against the cold stone walls.

“That won’t end well.”

Siddharth chuckled and shrugged.

“I’m aware. But that would be the fault of all you here.”

Patience between both sides wore thin.

“Will you do as we say? Yes or no?”

“I’m not the leader, nor are any of you. Now, I can forget this conversation ever happened and we can move on with our lives, or I can tell Abhay word for word and let him decide what he wants to do. Good or bad. Pick one.”

They turned to each other and exchanged a few nods.

“Go ahead and tell him.”

“Bold choice.”

Smart of them to use his voice as a cushion for their words.

“Are we done here?”

No answer. In an instant, they disappeared like phantoms, into the maze. Siddharth left behind them, breathing in the damp stench of the underground. Too many times was he caught in the crossfire between his family and those who stood against them. The upright and everlasting pillar that shielded the two, that was him.

I didn’t sign up for this, he chuckled to himself, running his fingers through his hair. Peace and quiet was seldom an option.

But what can I do, I love them both too much.

He hurried on home, before anything else happened.

He’s not going to happy about this one.

If Piya was in any amount of danger, Abhay would fight tooth and nail just to save her. And, Siddharth had to admit, ditch anything he was doing prior in order to do so. There had to be a better way.

He returned to the sounds of the beautiful piano.

Sounds like he’s home.

Which also meant he was probably in a good mood.

Abhay wanted his time alone to fill the soundless house with the piano’s melody. He played his portion of his and Piya’s piece, adding her portion in this imagination. It was still unnamed, though he contemplated asking her for ideas. Siddharth lightly knocked on the door, letting himself in as he concluded the last note.

He burst into applause. Abhay looked over.

“I thought you’d be long.” Siddharth said.

“We finished the leftover work early. No sense to stay at the office longer and keep the other employees waiting.”

Siddharth stood behind his shoulder and pat his back in approval.

“Look at you. So efficient. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Abhay could tell something was off with him. Too many compliments were strung into one breath. Siddharth, although usually cheery, was never this cheery.

“Where were you?”

“Nowhere important.”

“You’re smiling a little too much. It’s creepy.”

“That’s rude of you to say. People love my smile. Mandu loves my smile.”

“Too much of anything can be bad.”

“Killjoy.”

Siddharth sat down in one of the armchairs and kicked up his feet on the table, thinking of his next action. They did tell him to tell Abhay, though.

Should I do it?

“Tell me.”

“I really shouldn’t.”

“Why not?”

He sighed and twiddled his thumbs, readying his body to stop Abhay.

“Because, if I tell you, I fear you may go on a murder spree.”

Abhay smirked and pressed down on the keys with light taps.

“You think I’m that rash?”

“I don’t think. I know. Especially considering the reason.”

“What is it?”

“It’s about Piya. A portion of the clan, they’re not happy with your relationship with her.”

The next key was pressed down hard, almost enough to fracture the bar. Abhay stared forward, now wearing a deep scowl. His fingers gently touched over the bracelet, to calm him. Since the time she gifted it, he hadn’t taken it off.

“Told you.” Siddharth muttered, pressing a fist into his temple. He looked away.

“What did they want?” Abhay hissed, digging his fangs into his lower lip.

“Just for me to persuade you against her. Otherwise, they wanted to take things into their own hands. Like getting rid of her.”

Usually, that meant kill.

“Touch her, and there will be consequences.”

“And that’s what I told them. They’re still not satisfied. They say you’re neglecting your responsibilities as leader for interest in what they called ‘a human pet’.”

The binds of power snapped, rushing forth through his veins. His eyes flashed red. Siddharth felt a small prick in his chest, an imaginary knife twisting into the skin.

Not...again...

“Don’t....get angry at me, little brother. I’m just....parroting their words.” He trudged forward, placing his hand on Abhay’s shoulder. “Calm down. They...don’t know the whole story.”

“I’ll tell them the full story then.”

“Abhay—-“

The pain vanished. Siddharth heaved in a deep breath and stopped him in his tracks, shaking his head.

“Quit stopping me.”

“I do it because I have to. You’re angry. You’re not thinking clearly. Don’t do something you’ll regret later.”

Abhay took in a deep sigh and buried his face in his palms. The scarlet in his irises faded away, taking with it the burst of anger and its power.

“You’re better than this, Abhay.”

And for what benefit?

He thought over it himself, once cooled down. Maybe they were right. She took reign over his thoughts for months. He spent a lot of time with her. Piya had become a habit.

Habits are hard to change.

Was this a warning? Was this how nature was going to collect its retribution? By a vampire’s teeth tearing through her flesh?

“I owe Piya quite a bit. So much that I wouldn’t be able to ever repay her.” Siddharth murmured, staring at the floor with Abhay.

“Why?”

“Do I have repeat myself?” He chuckled, squeezing Abhay’s shoulder. “I’m seeing the old you again. Bits and pieces, not a lot. But it’s there. Just taking its time to break out of this shell you’ve made.”

Abhay rolled his wrist, watching the light touching the flower bounce with tiny reflections. He owed her a lot too. Her life was the biggest thing he could give her.

“The wonders of her music and love. Remember, she said that music and love can change a lot in a person. She was right.”

There was a twinkle in Abhay’s eyes whenever he thought of her.

“At least admit it to me, if not anyone else. I want to hear it from your mouth today.”

“Hear what?”

“That you love her.”

He looked Siddharth in the eye when giving his response, with utmost sincerity.

“Yes...I do love her. So much that I....I don’t think I can live without her.” A tear escaped his eyes, straight from his bleeding heart. “But I know she can’t live with me. From her perspective, it’s a rendezvous with death.”

He walked out, back to his room.

Mandu arrived home a few moments back, evading their ears. She listened from downstairs, underneath the study. Her worries grew. Abhay’s resistance was growing stronger. And if Piya ever reciprocated his feelings, would she accept him upon knowing the truth?

Would you still love him the same?

———————————————————————

Piya curled up against the window of her bedroom, palm resting flat on the pane. The rain fell with a soft pitter patter, racing down the glass into tiny puddles.

She pieced together their words, Abhay’s and his doppelgänger, like she traced paths from one droplet to the next. They made sense in tandem.

I’m not what I seem, Piya...

Does it matter what or who I am?

Would you be afraid of me?

The hints were there. That there was more to him than meets the eye. That there was a possibility that she wouldn’t accept him due to some kind of fear.

Why would I be afraid? He’s shown me so much kindness.

How dark were his scars, or his secrets? How much would they hurt her?

Her heart caved to him. Such a strong feeling this affection was. She cared for him more than she ever thought she could. A first. She never had an endearment towards someone like this before.

I need to talk to him....I want to ask him....

Feelings, they were there, making space in her heart for his arrival. Did he share the same flutter in his heart? A single thought was enough to turn her cheeks red. Did the same happen to him?

She pressed a palm against them, closing her eyes.

He meant a lot to her. His happiness, his smile, and his presence. Everything about him. It meant so much.

What do I mean to you, Abhay?

Oh dear god I’m again late for comment so sorry 🤦🏻‍♀️
it was amazing chapters

I feel really bad for Abhay he couldn’t live normal life😭

I still didn’t get how Abhay became vampire

Love Abhay & haseena bond haseena really love Abhay like her son🤗

I love Benjamin he was really naughty & full of life😃

When he got to know Abhay is vampire he made a deal with him instead of scared of Abhay🤣

Benjamin made Abhay his math teacher😆

Secretly Abhay also love Benjamin company😃

But why did u kill Benjamin? I really love him😭

After Benjamin death Abhay blamed himself & stayed away from human🥺

After decades He met seraphina & they had 1 weeks stand instead of 1 night stand

I really hope Sameer & misha won’t hate pia after knowing she is their half sister🙏
somehow Sameer have a doubt she is the same pia

Poor pia miss her mom badly😭

I’m so glad madhu came to meet her with food🤗

Madhu knew something is bothering pia & that took trolls on her health

So glad madhu gave pia support to talk what’s bothering her🤗

Finally pia told madhu abt the vampire who attacked her that night

Hope madhu will tell Abhay & siddarth abt it & they find the culprit soon🙏

Opps madhu saw the pandher book in Pia’s room

Seeing her parents pic madhu got emotional & she remembered everyone in the pic😭

Pia observed madhu’s expression when she saw the book

Oh dear god those vampire have guts to say get ride of pia if Abhay won’t focus on his responsibilities😡

Siddarth is so right abt Abhay

Only hearing they want to get ride of pia he got this much angry what Abhay will do if pia get even little scratch

Finally Abhay confess he love pia with his life

Madhu is really worried how Pia gonna react knowing their truth

If Pia will accept Abhay with his truth? Big question

On the other hand pia is wondering what madhu told her

Now Pia realize her love for Abhay all she want to know how he feels abt her

Hopefully Abhay won’t distance himself from Pia to save her🙏
I think it’s time for Pia to know the truth abt raichand & also that monster jay

Continue plz

Originally posted by: cuteariya

Oh dear god I’m again late for comment so sorry 🤦🏻‍♀️
it was amazing chapters

I feel really bad for Abhay he couldn’t live normal life😭

I still didn’t get how Abhay became vampire

Love Abhay & haseena bond haseena really love Abhay like her son🤗

I love Benjamin he was really naughty & full of life😃

When he got to know Abhay is vampire he made a deal with him instead of scared of Abhay🤣

Benjamin made Abhay his math teacher😆

Secretly Abhay also love Benjamin company😃

But why did u kill Benjamin? I really love him😭

After Benjamin death Abhay blamed himself & stayed away from human🥺

After decades He met seraphina & they had 1 weeks stand instead of 1 night stand

I really hope Sameer & misha won’t hate pia after knowing she is their half sister🙏
somehow Sameer have a doubt she is the same pia

Poor pia miss her mom badly😭

I’m so glad madhu came to meet her with food🤗

Madhu knew something is bothering pia & that took trolls on her health

So glad madhu gave pia support to talk what’s bothering her🤗

Finally pia told madhu abt the vampire who attacked her that night

Hope madhu will tell Abhay & siddarth abt it & they find the culprit soon🙏

Opps madhu saw the pandher book in Pia’s room

Seeing her parents pic madhu got emotional & she remembered everyone in the pic😭

Pia observed madhu’s expression when she saw the book

Oh dear god those vampire have guts to say get ride of pia if Abhay won’t focus on his responsibilities😡

Siddarth is so right abt Abhay

Only hearing they want to get ride of pia he got this much angry what Abhay will do if pia get even little scratch

Finally Abhay confess he love pia with his life

Madhu is really worried how Pia gonna react knowing their truth

If Pia will accept Abhay with his truth? Big question

On the other hand pia is wondering what madhu told her

Now Pia realize her love for Abhay all she want to know how he feels abt her

Hopefully Abhay won’t distance himself from Pia to save her🙏
I think it’s time for Pia to know the truth abt raichand & also that monster jay

Continue plz

Oh boy I’m about to disappoint with the distancing thing 😆 but don’t worry....it won’t last long maybe just a small handful of chapters 😆

Glad you liked the chapters! 🤗

Chapter 40

What Do I Mean to You?

This evening’s solo performance upon the edelweiss hill came about on a whim. Piya played without an audience, but at least the flowers were there to fill the absence. They dotted the entire hill, bloomed in white and vibrance. She was surprised by how fast they grew and spread, but accepted it wholeheartedly. Now the path between their houses didn’t look so dull anymore.

Abhay would surely love them too.

Salut d’amour, Op. 12.

Piya brushed her hair aside and poised her violin under her chin. As she played, as the sky gradually lost its sunlight, a swarm of fireflies danced around the flower bed, flickering atop the petals as a makeshift shower of light. It reminded her of a full concert hall. Dozens of spotlights beholden to her as their center.

It’s like magic....

Sights like this made her visits to the forests worth it taking. It sounded a little insane, given all the dangers it presented to her. But at this point, they seemed unavoidable.

At least this place is safe. Even if it’s darker over here than the other places.

Abhay never let his barriers down. If she wanted to spend time in her garden, he would help her do so. No matter how much of his energy it took.

The fireflies circled and danced around her, glowing bright against the thickening veil of shadows.

Piya looked towards the mansion, at the little slivers of painted wall that her eyes could make out. She hoped Abhay would come, so he could see the spectacle for himself. But he didn’t show up like he usually did. Maybe he couldn’t hear it this time, or it was likely that he was busy. Less time with class work meant more time in the office for him. The wait surpassed the visit of the glowing insects, just leaving her and her sound.

Sorry, Mr. Ghost. I think I’m missing Abhay a lot more than you lately.

Abhay was listening, just not in front of her. He lay aimlessly atop his bed, staring out the window at the sky’s gradient canopy. He couldn’t bring himself to watch her in person this time.

I’ll just listen from here.

His palm rested over his still heart. The heart that had grown to love again, to love her. He shut his eyes, experiencing that first night one, two, three times over. The newcomer to this mysterious city, the agitator to his status quo. The beautiful young woman who befriended him with no qualms and returned life to his being. She became his life, in heart and soul.

Piya.

He loved her. He loved her smile, her music, her relentless curiosity, her innocence, all of her. Everything that made her.

No more denial. Only acceptance, but only within himself.

If only I could tell you....

Where his denial ended, the resistance started. The handful of vampires only added onto the looming threat that Nature dangled over their bond.

Why Nature? Why couldn’t it just be the vampires? Why couldn’t it be something I can actually fight? For her, for us?

Was Fate really on his side? And happiness, did he deserve any?

Am I overthinking? Should I be doubting it this much?

Encouragement to follow his heart came from so many sides, but he was yet to listen to them.

He let his body relax, undoing bounds that were there to control him. His emotions broke loose, as overwhelming as they were. He wanted to tell her without words, to ease his own heartache.

Abhay hopped onto his feet and leaned over the balcony, eyes trained on her direction. The tiny fireflies rose up from the trees and flew away, catching his awe and hint of smile.

It was sadly comedic to him, how Maithili’s words still applied in his heart’s affairs. Though he took her place this time, and Piya his.

Meet me where the light meets the dark.

Piya stopped playing for just a moment. A light tingle snaked up her arms. She felt airy upon her feet, and heated on her skin. Her arms wrapped around her own torso. This sensation happened once before, at the anniversary party, yet it was much stronger this time. The feeling of a loving embrace, by an invisible force that sought to protect her.

Are you doing this?

Abhay stared at the bracelet, now glowing with the light of her essence, surrounded by his own. Their souls met after much time. It felt like a crime to hinder any further meetings.

The music flourished in the silent forest again.

One more time, for me.

He leapt off his balcony and joined to listen to the last iteration, much to her delight. As connected to him as she was, she didn’t need to look around to know he was there. Quiet as ever, but there.

“I was waiting for you.”

He leaned back against the tree at the base of the hill, listening till the end. Just the smile was missing.

Did I not play it well?

Wearing a washed out frown, Piya carefully stowed the violin and slung the case over her shoulder. Abhay didn’t look up, not until her feet were right in his vision.

He didn’t have to say anything for her to know. The disappearance of his smile, the forlornness in his eyes, was telling enough. It wasn’t the music, it was another matter.

“Are you okay?” She asked softly.

He didn’t reply.

“Let’s go on a walk. You’ll feel better.”

She brushed her hand past his in a subtle gesture, asking for his company. Although unaware of what exactly was bothering him, she wanted to give him a chance to speak his mind if he wanted. And while being a little selfish herself, a chance to spend time with him.

You care for me so much, more than I could ask for, Abhay thought.

He didn’t want to insult that sentiment, but there was a growing need to reject it.

Piya gazed at the horizon. The evening colors of the sky warmed the growing chill in her bones. Just a few more days, and the new year would bring with it new beginnings. She led the way, without a map or any sense of direction.

Abhay quietly followed behind Piya’s sprightly steps. She really did look like she had the wings of an angel. Flying without inhibition in the air. He was bound the ground, shackled in chains. Only able to merely admire his beloved while tethered to the ground.

If he wanted to reach her, he’d have to pull her down by the wing. Too much strength and it would tear.

Why can’t I love you without this fear?

They covered much ground in the next half hour. Piya stopped short of a small stream, one that hadn’t frozen over in the winter temperatures. It looked like melted crystal. She knelt down and splashed the water with her fingers, only a light chill coating her hand.

“Isn’t it so peaceful here?”

His eyes didn’t leave her. It was always peaceful with her around.

“It is.”

He sounded in low spirits. Piya stood and turned to him, inching small steps closer. Whatever was bothering him, she wanted to fix it. The pain reflected in his irises did not go unnoticed.

Abhay knew the softness in her eyes. The windows to words of her heart. He really did love them.

“Did....I do something?”

“No....” He immediately replied. She could never be the cause.

Piya softly smiled and took his hands, as cold as hers were now, and pressed them to her cheeks.

It’s warm, he thought.

“Your hands are shaking a little.”

“It’s cold.”

“Your hands are always cold.” She pouted, and then cupped his cheeks with her palms. “Even your face.”

Her fragrance drifted past his nose. He felt at ease, and wanted nothing more than to pull her close and melt his frost with her warmth. But instead, he calmly pulled her hands away.

“You’ll get cold.” He said.

She shook her head.

“It’s okay. I’m used to it, looking forward to winter and all.”

Abhay walked past her to the stream and stared at his reflection. Something normal to look at. Once the sun set completely, it would be much harder to see. Piya tugged at his sleeve. They walked the length of the stream side by side, in mutual silence, though her heartbeat was creating a likable ruckus. If their hands linked for even a second, passing each other the next, it would get louder.

Is she okay?

Abhay snuck a peek to her side. Her actions were as much surprising to him as his mood was to her. Actions he could only imagine of. She swung her arms, back and forth, hopping over a few rocks and tree roots. Thinking back, her heart always sounded like this when he was with her. A rich, fast beat. A song.

Piya wanted to ask him, indirectly somehow. It gnawed at her conscience, a question she never asked before. Telling someone she had feelings for them, to a guy like Abhay, who had someone he loved very much in the past.

Maybe I should’ve written a letter like Kabir did, she pondered. It was an interesting approach, an easier conversation starter. But I’m already here, with him. Just try.

She turned her head and looked at him, mustering the courage to put her feelings into words, or lead up to them. His icy grey eyes looked blankly ahead.

She adjusted her scarf, while trying to hide the blush on her cheeks.

“Abhay?”

“Hmm?”

“What does it feel like to fall in love with someone?”

He stopped walking, taken aback. His heel ground into the snow as she looked back for an answer.

Does she.....?

“It’s...unpredictable. You feel like you have a choice in the matter, but when you realize you don’t, it’s already happened.”

She experienced the same with him. This day was one she couldn’t ever imagine. Falling in love, never had she done it before nor expected it to happen now. It just became that way. Within a snap of the fingers.

Do you like me too?

“Can I ask you one more thing? If you don’t mind?”

“What is it?”

Piya bit her lower lip and stared at his shoes for a while, grinding her own into the snow, drawing circles.

“What do I mean to you?”

Everything. And beyond everything.

Abhay admired her shining swirls of chocolate brown as she looked him straight in the eye. Only Maithili was privy to this side of Abhay, and the warmth and love of his gaze. If only he could let Piya experience it more. It took lots of courage for him to lie.

“A close friend.”

It was not the answer her heart wanted. His eyes and words once again told different stories. She took a step closer, looking up to him in hope. One last try.

“Nothing more? Just a friend?”

Her eyes glossed over with restrained tears.

Why am I crying?

His chest felt tight. He slightly drew his arm out to comfort her, but stopped before she could see.

Please don’t cry.

Embarrassed, she turned away and pressed the side of her finger under her eye, discreetly hiding the impending heartache. He grew dreadfully silent, like he had seen something.

Something horrible.

His heart aimed to answer in the affirmative, placing the response on his lips. But he didn’t say. He couldn’t say. There was a change in the scenery before him.

An eerie chill crawled up his spine. The peaceful skies filled with rumbling clouds and piercing winds. Drained of color. His fingers reached out again to caress her silken tresses, igniting speaks in their wake. She looked back, relieved almost.

He angered an entity beyond his control.

Learn from your mistakes. Or you’ll lose her too.

Another warning.

Here, I’ll show you.

Piya’s features contorted in physical pain, erasing her smile, fingers grabbing at her chest. Her petite frame doubled over, wrenching and coughing violently into her palm. Her eyes were wide with dread. Scarlet red rolled down her arms.

Frozen in place, invisible shackles bounding his arms, Abhay became completely helpless.

No....no, Piya.....no..

She burst into a coughing fit. Bleeding from the nose and eyes, she looked his way, frightened and waiting for him to do something. He could only watch. Her eyes rolled back, skin losing color. She collapsed onto the snowy field, bleeding out from all over her body.

His own breathing grew heavy. A loss of control was imminent. The beast within him fought back hard, not for her safety, but for the eagerness to savor this feast of blood before it wasted away into the snow.

Monster. You monster. He cursed himself.

He couldn’t move. He couldn’t heal her. He could only watch her die. He could only be disgusted with himself. The tears of obsidian, falling relentlessly from his eyes, mixed into the snow with her blood.

The violin burned to ashes behind her. The music it created by her hand earlier, it faded as the instrument was slowly consumed and destroyed by the flame.

You have no power here.

The last of her heartbeat followed the music. Gone. Mute. Forever.

“Piya!”

His shrieks were lodged in his throat. Her body faded into the void. He was alone. There was nothing, and then she was there again. Standing tall and safe. Alive. Thrust back into reality, he stared at his love’s beautiful visage. She was waiting for the answer to her questions.

No....I can’t....

He smothered his feelings, strangled any life his heart began to harbor. Anything to keep her alive. Anything to avoid that kind of nightmare.

An invitation to the cold and emotionless Abhay was presented. To make a temporary return.

“No....nothing more.”

It was the easiest to turn her down now. Before it was too late. He couldn’t be selfish anymore.

Do I have to give up our friendship too?

Piya lost resolve to hold back tears. Her heart began to shatter. Maybe it was too good to be true.

It’ll never happen, Piya.

Abhay turned away. He had to leave, before he hurt her more. He couldn’t bear to see her cry, especially because of his actions. His eyes scanned the surroundings. To leave her alone in the forest, he didn’t want that either. They had walked in the opposite direction of their homes, a considerable distance away. Nightfall was approaching.

“I’ll walk you home.”

Piya shuddered at his tone. Cold, and unfamiliar. Just like when they first met. The Abhay that no one liked, and liked no one.

Did I hurt you?

He started walking without saying much else, hands balled up into fists. Piya followed behind him this time, at a greater distance, steps heavier and slower. From her perspective, he looked to have faded with the impending night. Farther and farther away from her. She jogged in light bursts to catch up, but he didn’t once look back.

She only made things worse. Was there hope to correct them, or at least apologize?

Abhay didn’t blame her; he was the one to let things go too far.

I’m sorry.

Her thoughts wailed in his ears. It hurt more, knowing she had feelings for him. They couldn’t be so close, yet so far from each other.

Whenever they were together, her home arrived after what seemed like forever. Today, it was there in an instant. She tried to say goodbye, but he left before she could muster a syllable.

Forgive me, Piya.....

Her image faded behind him as he walked away.

I wish I was human like you.

———————————————————————

https://youtu.be/N5z3ZO0QfFE

Oops 😆

as always amazing chapter

pia once again went out alone late evening

those flowers grown up really fast & well😊

pia love to play violin for those flowers😊

she was waiting for abhay so she can talk abt her feeling to him

on the other hand finally abhay accepted his love for pia but isn't ready to confess to pia coz of his truth🥺

at last abhay went to meet pia at the same place

but seeing his quite pia got worried for him even asked abhay if she did something wrong

abhay told her she didn't do anything wrong

poor pia at last gather her courage to ask abhay what she mean to him

but abhay as usual did what he use to do

abhay friend zone pia coz of his fear which broke pia's heart🥺

in my opinion abhay should tell pia the truth the more they hide the more it's pain

poor pia it broke her heart when abhay said she is just friend nothing more🥺

both abhiya in pain right now🥺

hope abhay will tell pia entire truth before it's too late

continue plz

Originally posted by: cuteariya

as always amazing chapter

pia once again went out alone late evening

those flowers grown up really fast & well😊

pia love to play violin for those flowers😊

she was waiting for abhay so she can talk abt her feeling to him

on the other hand finally abhay accepted his love for pia but isn't ready to confess to pia coz of his truth🥺

at last abhay went to meet pia at the same place

but seeing his quite pia got worried for him even asked abhay if she did something wrong

abhay told her she didn't do anything wrong

poor pia at last gather her courage to ask abhay what she mean to him

but abhay as usual did what he use to do

abhay friend zone pia coz of his fear which broke pia's heart🥺

in my opinion abhay should tell pia the truth the more they hide the more it's pain

poor pia it broke her heart when abhay said she is just friend nothing more🥺

both abhiya in pain right now🥺

hope abhay will tell pia entire truth before it's too late

continue plz

thanks dear! I want them to reconcile as soon as possible so it’ll come soon 😆

Chapter 41

A Mistake in the Making

Beyond the reckoning of any human or supernatural, in another plane of existence, lived the quintessence of Time, among others. Its corner of the realm teemed with books and parchments of all history, some tucked neatly into bookcases while others floated in the air, in the absence of gravity. An orderly disarray. Seated before a large leather bound sketchbook, a boy scrawled over the empty pages with scenes of future events that intrigued him. He was too engrossed to notice he had a visitor.

“You’re back.” He finally said, finishing up the last minute details.

“Why sound so surprised? You knew I was coming.”

“That is correct. I did.”

She snuck forward on her toes and peeked over his shoulder to see what was being drawn, but he stood up on the chair and shut the book before she could.

Of course he won’t let me see.

“Why choose the name Horatia?”

She shrugged.

“It means hour or time in one of their languages. Thought it was appropriate.”

He opened his mouth to acknowledge the answer and hopped down from the towering chair, turning her way. He looked just like her, a perfect twin. Dark brown hair and light blue eyes, pale but rosy complexion.

“What do you need?” He asked, taking wobbly steps up the stairs of books floating nearby. She remained at the bottom, since their voices were audible from anywhere.

“You should know. You are Future after all.”

He twirled a feather quill behind his back, tapping the body of the infinite hourglass that sat in the center. Past stood at the bottom, and Future at the very top. The hourglass was the only tangible representation of their combined being, and the passage of time.

Horatia frowned and watched the grains of sand fall gracefully to the others, recent events filling her ever-growing conscious. The mortal world was much more interesting, even if she didn’t belong down amongst them. It was too quiet here.

“Just tell me.” He muttered, growing bored himself. “Otherwise it won’t sound like a conversation.”

“How much time is left?”

“Not much longer. The vampire has already begun what he shouldn’t have.”

She was aware of that, Abhay having broke Piya’s heart just the night prior.

“Just don’t use your powers again until absolutely necessary. There are rules for a reason.”

“You could have stopped me.”

Preventing Piya’s injury only took minimal power.

“There’s too many minor details to pay attention to. I must’ve missed it until it happened.”

She was glad, at times, that she wasn’t him. Knowing everything to come and all its possibilities seemed exhausting.

A tiny charm in the shape of the hourglass appeared, tied around her wrist. A tie to this realm.

“I forgot this.”

“It slipped my mind to remind you.” He said, taking a large leap down to her side. “I’d come with you if it were safe for us.”

She nodded, twirling the charm around its chain.

Those who wished to meddle with and exploit time would have their lives made easier for them, should the two fragments be together.

Or should they lay their hands on Piya without her protector.

“And of the others like her? Are they safe?”

“Safe is questionable, but they don’t need our interference. This girl is the only one. Lucky for us, I see multiple avenues for success.”

“Good.”

———————————————————————

“Are you happy now?”

Siddharth was distraught. No, disappointed. His little brother was better than this. Stronger than this.

Abhay returned home last night to remain in his room for the entire day. Not a sound, not the slightest movement. When he did, he said not to speak of his and Piya’s relationship in the house ever again. Siddharth guessed the worst, and confronted him.

Why are you becoming the enemy to your own happiness?

“I expected better from you.”

Abhay restrained his emotions from his expression, whilst clawing into the fabric of the armchair, back turned towards Siddharth.

“You think forcing yourself to stay away from her will keep her safe? Are you forgetting about Jeh?”

“I have not.” He snarled.

Siddharth jerked his arm back, forcing him to make eye contact.

“Then why Abhay?”

“I don’t need to explain again.”

No amount of distraction could turn Abhay’s instincts away from the pain Piya felt. It stabbed him in the heart, a hundred times over. He couldn’t be more sorry.

“It’s for her own good.”

Siddharth rolled his eyes in frustration, dropping his hand to the side.

“If she weren’t involved in any way with our world from the start, I would probably agree. But she is, and you can thank Jeh for that. How long will you run from her?”

“As long as it takes.”

He crossed his arms and stood before Abhay, looking him straight in the eye. “Did our conversations about her mean nothing? Was my advice pointless?”

“It was my decision, my blame.”

Mandu pulled them apart. She left them alone for a few minutes and this is what she came back to. Fights like these were uncommon events, even in their childhood.

“Don’t take his side, love.”

She pressed her palms to his chest and shook her head, lowering it to sigh.

“I’m not here to take sides. I just want the shouting to stop.”

Both were upset. Both had valid concerns. Abhay wanted to keep Piya safe, and Siddharth wanted to see them both happy. But such hot-headed discussion was to help no one, only to hurt.

Abhay wasn’t foolish, nor was he heartless, often as he called himself to be. She saw he was hurting, as did Siddharth. She approached Abhay calmly.

“Abhay, are you satisfied with your decision?”

He snapped his head back, trying his hardest to show no remorse.

“Even if I wasn’t, what can I do? Do you think I want to be apart from her?”

The tears couldn’t hold themselves back. He wiped them angrily.

“I know you don’t.”

Siddharth fumed behind her. She pressed her hand to keep him back. This discussion needed to pause for now.

“Abhay, why don’t you take a walk in the garden for a bit?”

“I’m not done—“

She pressed her finger to Siddharth’s lips, shaking her head.

Not now, please?, she pleaded, through their mindlink.

He looked towards her in remorse and slowly nodded. A little time to collect themselves was needed.

———————————————————————

And just like that, everything was falling apart. On the outside, and within him.

I shouldn’t have hoped for more.

Abhay stepped outside into the house gardens, under the pouring rain without an umbrella. In this very downpour, he recalled, they almost shared their first kiss. Before he cut it short.

It soon drenched him completely, droplets covering his cheeks as they trickled from his hair. It was calming, and soothed his erratic nerves.

Will I find you in the rain again?

He took solace in envisioning her dance under the clouds, gleefully stepping in puddles and intending splashes his way, at his side. The Piya of his imagination would be the only thing he could keep, the only version he could openly confess to.

I’ll always protect you from the shadows, as your ghost.

He walked to the small bridge that towered over another stream. A quiet place to dwell in thoughts, and a part of home. Mandu tended to it well, delicately weaving many a trellis of flowers through its pillars. His eyes danced around the ripples of water below, resting his palms upon the wooden railing.

Solitude never seems to leave my side.

It attached to his being as a curse, one of the reasons why he believed little in having a soulmate. Why chase something he couldn’t attain?

Abhayendra had resolve but no power. Abhay had power but no resolve.

He closed his icy grey eyes and lifted his head towards the sky, cold rain becoming the tears of his heart. It hurt more than Maithili’s betrayal.

I should have let her kill me then.

Begging for death as a selfish means to escape this pain and this chain of events, or a chance to be reborn as someone she could be with.

I shouldn’t have run for this pathetic life.

Horatia stood at a meager distance behind him, concealed with the help of the charm. It was hard to see him with how well he blended in with the dark. She pitied him.

This world can be cruel, but it can also be very beautiful. Never forget that.

Abhay felt like he was being watched, and turned around immediately, startling the little being called Past. The loosely bound charm slipped off her wrist for a moment, revealing her location. He looked her straight in the eye. She didn’t flinch or take a step back.

She’s the girl from Piya’s classes, he thought, examining her features.

“I can see you.”

Horatia narrowed her eyes, and stepped to the side to test, fixing the charm. He followed, with deeper suspicion.

“Who are you? And what are you doing following me and Piya?”

“I don’t have to answer to you, vampire. Though I’m glad to see you care for her.”

He took a step closer, setting the predator on edge. Horatia tilted her head, side to side, inciting him at the slightest with her lack of reaction. There was a strange energy about her, one he never felt before.

“Would you hurt a child?”

“I would never. Regardless, you may look like one, but aren’t. How long have you been around?”

“Hmm....since the creation of this universe. So however many eons that may be.”

Hundreds upon hundreds, thousands upon thousands. Millions.

He never met someone that old.

“What are you?”

She circled him a few times, swinging her arms back and forth. Abhay didn’t feel threatened, and let his guard down.

“A fragment of time, if you believe me.”

He looked at her with scorn and shoved his hands into his pockets, remembering the broken clock in the study that fixed itself on its own.

Was that you?

A small grin spread about her cheeks.

“Prove it.”

She brushed her fingers through her hair and burst into hushed laughter.

If humans don’t understand their kind, then they certainly don’t understand us.

“I’m not allowed to do anything of the sort. Against the rules.”

“What, meddling with time? Or yourself, I should say?”

“Precisely. I’m here to keep a balance.”

Balance, he thought, containing his disgust.

“You hold a grudge, I’m aware, Abhayendra Rao. Nature isn’t the most merciful.”

And Time was awfully intrusive. At least now, with the reveal of his name, he could somewhat believe her.

“What else do you know about me?”

“Everything. From here and all there is behind you. Your family, Maithili, how you ended up here, etcetera.”

“Behind me? Like, the past?”

“You’re smarter than I thought.”

“What is your motive?”

“To talk a little sense into you.”

Her words managed to break a repressed chuckle out of him. Abhay couldn’t believe it. Even time was fed up with his decisions.

“Nature threatens me. Time scolds me. What cosmic entity should I expect at my door next?”

“Hey, it’s for your benefit.” She lifted off her feet and floated in the air before him. “Don’t push her away. Otherwise you’ll be endangering her, and those you know and love.”

It was worth a try to fix things now. One of the opportunities Future spoke of.

“If you’re Past, you must know why I did it. You think I wanted to?”

“I’m aware of the circumstances. Don’t worry, your concerns won’t bear fruit. Nature may throw tantrums, but it is subject to Fate’s wishes.”

He didn’t want to believe something that told him everything would be okay. The lack of trust between them would hinder her own progress. She only just revealed herself to him.

“I find it difficult to trust, if you can understand.”

“I can. But if you don’t, I’ll be forced to take matters into my own hands, so hope I’m not too late. Like you, I don’t know what will happen, and how gruesome it may be. Future tells me little to none, you see?”

He showed no reaction, but appeared to be in thought.

“I’ll have to think it over.....”

A pair of footsteps joined their ensuing conversation. Or end of it, rather.

“Abhay, who are you talking to?”

Mandu brought him an umbrella and found him conversing with thin air. He looked at her, then at the space in front of him. The young girl of immense power was fading.

“I’ll best be going. Think of what I said.”

Wonderful chappy

Continue soon