The illegitimate daughter of a powerful businessman, she was sent to live with her six half-brothers after her father's sudden death.
The boys were born from privilege, pride, and perfectly manicured bloodlines. No one welcomed her. No one cared.
De...
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As my eyelids fluttered open, the world around me swam in hazy light. The brightness pierced through the fog in my head, making me blink repeatedly. The ceiling stared back at me—smooth, white, with faint golden detailing along the edges. I had never seen this room before.
My head felt heavy, as if someone had stuffed it with cotton. My body burned with an uncomfortable heat and a dull ache spreading beneath my skin. The curtains were drawn halfway, allowing thin streaks of sunlight to spill across the dark wooden floor.
The walls were lined with bookshelves, neatly arranged with files, journals, and framed photographs that looked untouched by dust. A large work desk stood near the window, cluttered with documents, a laptop, and a pen stand. I have a feeling that this room belongs to Aditya.
As my vision sharpened, my gaze landed on Atharyu. He was sitting on a chair beside the bed, his head slightly tilted back, eyes closed, and the most shocking thing is how his hand loosely clasped mine.
I looked at his face closely; exhaustion was carved into his features and dark circles beneath his eyes. His jaw was clenched even in sleep; his usually perfect hair was slightly disheveled now.
I turned my head slightly and found Aditya sitting on the bed beside me. He was sleeping, resting against the headboard.
Confusion furrowed my brows as I slowly scanned the rest of the room. Aarav was sprawled on the couch with one arm thrown over his face. Kabeer was slumped on a recliner with his mouth slightly open.
Ranveer sat on a chair near the door with his head leaning against the wall. Rudra was sleeping, sitting on the floor while resting his head on the couch with a pillow under his head, while Shaurya was curled near him.
What are they all doing here?
Slowly, fragments of last night returned. Avni and Veeransh dining in the same restaurant. How I had a panic attack. I vaguely remembered someone lifting me into their arms. After that everything is blank.
My eyes darted to the clock on the wall. And it was almost noon. Did they bring me here?
How could I let my guard down like that? How can I let them see me at my lowest? What must they be thinking? I don't want anyone's pity.
As I tried to sit up, my head spun violently. My body felt weak and hollow, like I had been drained from the inside. Still, I forced myself into a sitting position, gripping the bedsheet for support.
They were still in yesterday's outfit. Didn't they get time to change?
My eyes shifted to the bedside table; there were medicines and a thermometer.
I carefully tried to pull my hand away from Atharyu's grip, but even that tiny movement was enough. His eyes flew open instantly. And in a second, he was on his feet.
