Forbidden Whispers

Chapter 7: Maths

Vedika's PoV

The next morning, I woke up and checked the room, finding that he was not there. Part of me felt relieved because, after yesterday, I was too shy to face him. Yet, another part of me craved to see him again, to feel the safety of his presence.

I glanced at the clock and realized I barely had time to get ready for school. Rushing to the washroom, I quickly put on my uniform and hurried downstairs.

"Oh, Vedika, you're up! Come have breakfast," Swarna aunty called out warmly.

I walked into the dining area, trying to compose myself. "Good morning, aunty."

"Good morning, beta. Vedika, when did you both come home last night?" Swarna aunty asked, her tone curious but kind.

I froze, my heart pounding. I didn't want to disclose what had happened, fearing the consequences. If my dadi found out, she would undoubtedly take me back, and I couldn't bear the thought of leaving this place and these people.

"I... um... we...," I stammered, fumbling for words, my mind racing for a plausible excuse.

Swarna aunty's eyes narrowed slightly in concern. "Is everything alright, Vedika?"

Just then, Natasha walked in, sensing my distress. "Oh, we got back pretty late, Mumma," she interjected smoothly. "You know how these parties are. We were just chatting and lost track of time."

Swarna aunty's expression softened. "Well, as long as you both are safe. Next time, try not to stay out so late. Your dadi would worry."

"Yes, aunty. I'm sorry," I said, feeling a wave of relief wash over me.

"Come, sit and have some breakfast before you rush off to school," Swarna aunty said, gesturing to the table.

Natasha gave me a reassuring smile as we sat down. "Don't worry, Vedika. Everything's fine."

I nodded, grateful for her intervention. As I picked up a piece of toast.

Just then, he walked in, making me stiffen. His presence always made me feel conscious, my heartbeat quickened.He took the seat next to me.

"Good morning," he mumbled softly, his voice sending shivers down my spine.

"Good morning," I managed to reply, my voice barely above a whisper.

As I tried to focus on my breakfast, Advay turned to Natasha. "Natasha, I will drop you guys to school from now on," he declared, his tone leaving no room for argument.

I glanced at him, shocked. "Umm, it's okay, bhaiya. You don't have to. You have office, and the driver can drop us," Natasha said, trying to reason with him.

"No, I will. End of discussion," he said firmly, his dominating tone making my inner fangirl squeal with delight.

The rest of breakfast passed in a blur.

As we neared the school, a knot of fear formed in my stomach. I couldn't stop thinking about those boys and what they might do if they saw me again. Advay seemed to sense my anxiety. When we pulled up to the school gates, he turned to Natasha.

"Natasha, go ahead. I need to talk to Vedika for a moment," he said.

Natasha gave me a concerned look but nodded and got out of the car. I was left alone with Advay, my heart pounding so loudly I was sure he could hear it.

"Vedika," he began, his voice gentle yet commanding, "I know you're scared, but you don't have to be. I'm here now. Nothing will happen to you while I'm around."