Chapter 10: A Dangerous Game

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The weight of Chitrole’s call lingered over Vineet like a dark cloud. As the team focused on the next phase of the investigation, Vineet felt a gnawing anxiety In his gut. He had worked so hard to gain the trust of the CID team, especially Abhijeet Sir. But now, the very man who had placed him in this unit was asking him to jeopardize it all.

The case was growing more complicated by the day. The killer’s sudden shift in methods wasn’t just a mistake; it felt deliberate. Vineet sensed it. His instincts told him there was something bigger at play, something that tied these murders together in a way they hadn’t yet uncovered.

But now, with Chitrole pulling strings behind the scenes, it felt like he was walking a tightrope. One wrong move, and everything he had worked so hard to build would come crashing down.

That evening, as they returned to the CID office to review the latest leads, Vineet noticed Abhijeet glancing at him more than usual. Abhijeet had always been sharp, able to read people like a book. And now, Vineet knew that if he wasn’t careful, Abhijeet would notice the tension he was carrying.

After a long day, when the rest of the team began to leave, Abhijeet caught Vineet by the arm as they exited the office.

“Vineet,” Abhijeet said, his voice low but filled with concern. “Something’s off. You’ve been distracted all day. Talk to me.”

Vineet hesitated, searching Abhijeet’s eyes. He wanted to tell him everything, to confide in the man who had become so much more than just a mentor. But the words caught in his throat. Chitrole’s favor hung over him like a threat, and revealing it could put Abhijeet in danger, too.

“I’m just tired, Abhijeet,” Vineet finally said, forcing a smile. “This case is getting to me.”

Abhijeet didn’t look convinced, but he nodded. “I understand. But you know you can talk to me, right? If something’s bothering you, you don’t have to carry it alone.”

The sincerity in Abhijeet’s voice hit Vineet like a punch. He hated lying, especially to Abhijeet. But for now, he had no choice.

“I know,” Vineet said quietly. “Thanks, Abhijeet.”

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