WARNING : Abuse and trigger scenes present. Read with risk and get ready for an emotional suspense thriller journey with tissue boxes
[Started on 2020, Rewritten and Republished on 2024]
"I married you, but that doesn't mean you can control my life...
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Next day dawned, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Kritika. The shrill sound of her alarm pulled her out of her slumber, prompting a groan of reluctance. Glancing at her phone, she noted the early hour: 6 a.m. She muttered a curse under her breath, acknowledging the sacrifice of her sleep for the sake of her responsibility. With determination, she rose from her bed, ready to face the day ahead.
After completing her morning routine, Kritika descended the stairs to find her mother and sister-in-law engaged in conversation in the kitchen.
"Good morning, ladies!" Kritika greeted cheerfully, only to be met with looks of astonishment from Ishita and Shivanya. Perplexed by their reaction, Kritika frowned.
Taking a seat on the kitchen platform, Kritika inquired, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
Concern etched on her face, Ishita hurried towards Kritika, touching her forehead. "Oh, my child. What happened? Are you feeling unwell?"
Kritika rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Ma, I'm fine. Don't be so dramatic."
"Then why are you up so early?" Shivanya asked, stirring the curry.
Kritika hopped off the platform, replying, "I have to report for my new case today, so I need to leave early." Grabbing an apple, she began munching on it.
Ishita fretted, "When will you be back?"
Gulping down a piece of apple, Kritika replied, "It depends, Ma. I can't say for sure." Glancing at the clock, she realized the time. "Oh no, it's already seven. I have to leave now. Let Papa, bhai, and Aradhya know that I've gone."
With that, she rushed to the door, grabbing her bag and coat.
Hastening after her, Ishita called out, "But what about breakfast?"
"No problem, Ma. I'll grab something on the way," Kritika shouted back as she exited the house.Hurrying towards her car, Kritika stowed her belongings and offered a quick prayer before starting the engine and driving off.
SINGHANIA MANSION
Kritika arrived at the Singhania Mansion, parking her car outside. As she stepped out, bag in hand, the watchman approached her.
"Hey, madam, who are you?" he inquired.
"I'm Dr. Kritika from Seven Hills Hospital," she replied with a smile.
"Oh, I'm sorry for the trouble, madam. Sir has already informed me about you," the watchman apologized sheepishly.
"No need to apologize. I understand," Kritika reassured him, waving off his embarrassment.
With the gate opened, Kritika entered the grand estate, her eyes widening in awe at the sight before her. She marveled at the rows of luxury cars on one side and a magnificent fountain with an angelic statue on the other.
As she walked towards the entrance, she reminded herself of her purpose and the importance of the letter from the dean. However, her mind was preoccupied with Aditya Singhania and their unexpected encounter.
Meanwhile, Aditya was prepping for the day ahead when his phone rang. Engrossed in the call, he made his way downstairs, oblivious to Kritika's presence.
Their paths collided abruptly, sending Aditya's phone tumbling from his grasp. Reacting swiftly, Kritika caught it, while Aditya instinctively reached out to steady her, their bodies close for a fleeting moment.
Caught off guard, they locked eyes, a mix of shock and curiosity flashing between them. Aditya found himself entranced by Kritika's amber gaze, while she grappled with the intensity of his gaze. Finally breaking the spell, they stepped back, both feeling a flush of embarrassment.
As Aditya attempted to regain his composure, his phone interrupted the moment, prompting them to move apart. Kritika's mind raced with a flurry of emotions, while Aditya cursed himself for his uncharacteristic distraction.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Aditya's abrupt question shattered the tension, causing Kritika to startle.
"What am I doing here?" she shot back, her brows furrowing in irritation.
"Yes, do you have an ear problem?" Aditya retorted, his tone sharp.
"No, I don't, and I'm here for an important matter," Kritika responded, her patience waning. "And what the hell are you doing here ?"
Unimpressed, Aditya countered, "Excuse me, this is my area, my house. Should I stay with you instead?"
