The Serendipitous Encounter

Chapter 13 ** Harsh Reality **

His decision to become a trustee of the university led him to destroy the University and the future of the other students.

The news was like fire in the jungle; it spreaded like air. Here Saraswati was also aware about the news and praying to god to save the University and the charges to abolish but here her own fate triggering her dream to destroy.

Theodore further tightened his hold over Saraswati. This position allowed him to oversee every aspect of her academic environment, ensuring that her progress and achievements were always under his watchful eye. Yet, his most concerning behaviour was his increasing tendency to stalk her.

Theodore's possessiveness drove him to follow Saraswati covertly, watching her from the shadows as she went about her daily routine. His need to be ever-present in her life, to know her every move, betrayed a disturbing side to his character. He justified his actions as a form of care, convincing himself that he was simply ensuring her well-being. However, this stalking behavior was a clear invasion of her privacy and autonomy, revealing the darker aspects of his personality.

Theodore's dark actions, driven by his possessiveness, thus created a dangerous dynamic. His need to control and possess Saraswati, cloaked under the guise of protection and support, threatened to undermine her independence and personal growth, casting a shadow over his ostensibly noble intentions.

Aria's insecurities festered, driving her to concoct a plan to insult and undermine Saraswati at her workplace, a boutique where Saraswati had earned respect for her dedication and hard work. Feeling threatened by Saraswati's growing prominence and perhaps envying the attention she received, Aria sought to tarnish her reputation and disrupt her life.

At the boutique, Aria orchestrated a public humiliation for Saraswati. She walked in with an air of superiority, her eyes scanning the room for her target. Spotting Saraswati assisting a customer, Aria sauntered over, her voice dripping with condescension.

"Oh, look who it is," Aria said loudly, ensuring everyone's attention was drawn. "Saraswati, the star of the boutique. I've heard so much about you."

Saraswati looked up, smiling politely. "Hello,Ms. Aria. How can I help you today? Do you want more Indian designs?"

Aria smirked, her tone turning icy. "Help me? Oh, I don't need help from someone like you. I just wanted to see for myself how a... person of your background managed to get so much attention here. It's quite amusing, really."

Saraswati's smile faltered slightly, but she maintained her composure. "I'm here to assist all our customers to the best of my ability, regardless of background."

"Really?" Aria's voice was loud enough for everyone to hear. "Well, some of us can't help but wonder if you're just seeking attention. You've certainly been making quite a show of yourself lately. Is this your way of trying to climb the social ladder?"

Saraswati's face reddened, but she kept her tone steady. "I work hard and take pride in my job. I don't seek attention; I seek to do my best."

Aria let out a mocking laugh. "Oh, please. Spare us the humble act. We all know you're just trying to rise above your station. It's almost... cheap, don't you think?"

The room fell silent, eyes shifting between Aria and Saraswati. Aria's words hung heavily in the air, laced with malice.

"I don't know what you mean by that," Saraswati said quietly, her voice trembling slightly. "I am proud of where I come from."

"Of course you are," Aria sneered. "But let's not pretend you're anything more than an attention seeker. People like you should remember their place."