It's A Love Story (Edited)

Echoes of Betrayal

Swara's POV

The day Laksh left my life was like a storm raging through my heart. I felt as though I had lost a piece of myself, someone who once meant everything to me. Yet amidst all the tears, a realization began to take shape: maybe we were never meant to be. As I glanced over at Sanskar, his gaze was a mix of sympathy and something deeper that I couldn't quite place. It was both comforting and confusing.

I quickly wiped my tears and tried to compose myself. "Sorry, Sanskar. I must be so boring, talking like this. But what can I do? I've lost the most important person in my life, someone I loved deeply."

I stood up, ready to leave, but Sanskar's hand gently caught mine, guiding me back down. His eyes held a blend of empathy and firmness.

"Swara," he said softly, "by crying over someone who never cared for you, who insulted you and broke your heart, you're wasting your tears. You have friends, family... there's so much more to your life. I don't believe in love because I've seen how it destroys people. My mom loved my dad deeply, but he never had time for her. They live separately now. I hate him for what he's done, but I never cry for him. You shouldn't either. If he wants to be your friend, be friends with him, but don't show him that you care too much."

I looked at him, confusion and concern clouding my eyes. "Why do you hate your father, Sanskar? What did he do?"

"It's not important," Sanskar replied, his voice distant. "Forget it, Swara. Just don't let Laksh know that you still care. It's better for you."

I nodded, though my heart was heavy with unanswered questions. "If you don't want to share, that's fine. But thank you, Sanskar. I'll try to follow your advice. Thanks for listening to me ramble."

As I stood to leave, Sanskar called me back. He approached and whispered, "Always smile like this. You look beautiful when you smile."

His words left me blushing, and I watched him walk away, feeling a strange flutter in my chest.

Swara's POV

Why do I feel this way around Sanskar? Why does he make me feel safe and warm, even when I'm lost in my own thoughts? His words and presence make me blush and feel a bit more hopeful. What is happening to me?

I made my way to the canteen, where my friends, including Laksh, were gathered. I approached them with a mix of resolve and uncertainty.

"Guys, can I borrow Laksh for a minute, please?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Ragini looked surprised but nodded. "Of course, Swara. You can talk to him."

Laksh rose and followed me out of the canteen. As soon as we were alone, he spoke.

"I knew you'd come to talk to me, Swara."

"Look, Laksh," I began, trying to keep my emotions in check, "I'm talking to you because we're in the same group, college, and class. But that doesn't mean I've forgiven you."

Before he could respond, I turned and walked away, leaving him with teary eyes. I noticed Ragini approaching Laksh, her hand resting comfortingly on his shoulder.

"Ragini...?" Laksh said, his voice a mixture of surprise and despair.

"Why can't you tell her, Laksh?" Ragini asked, her voice tinged with frustration.

"I can't, Ragini. If I tell her, she'll hate me. And you too. I'm really sorry, but I just can't do it," Laksh replied, his voice breaking.

As Laksh walked away, Ragini was left behind, visibly shattered.

Ragini's POV

I understand, Laksh. I know you love her, but if you reveal the truth, she'll be devastated—not just by your betrayal, but by the fact that her best friend was involved. It's too much for her to handle. I'm so sorry, Swara. I'm really sorry.

Unbeknownst to them, someone had been eavesdropping on their conversation. A dark smirk spread across the stranger's face as they whispered, "Oh, poor things. I'll make sure to destroy all of this. I'll tear apart your friendships and your happiness."

The screen fades out on the smirk of the mysterious figure, hinting at the looming danger that threatens to unravel everything.

4o mini