"But I Want You," | ONC 2025

ONC 2025

Mudassir had it all-awards, friends, and a reputation that turned heads. But glory is fragile, and when life kicked him down, it didn't just bruise him. It shattered him.

Now, he's trapped in the outskirts of Karachi, living with a violent father who drinks more than he breathes and a mind that's its own worst enemy. Once the life of the party, Mudassir is just another man drowning in rejection-job rejections, romantic failures, and his once-unshakable ego lie in ruins, a battered remnant of who he used to be.

Until he sees her.

Yusra Haroon. Selfishly stunning. Charmingly unapproachable. His therapist-to-be.

An accomplishment he's looking to unravel.

Suddenly, it isn't healing he's after. It's her undivided attention. Therapy sessions turn into a game, and to Mudassir, her kindness isn't just compassion. It's the reward of the price he's paid. It's proof that she wants him, even if she doesn't know it yet.

But when she tries to set clear boundaries, he does what he's always known best. And that's not sounding good for the two of them.

Because anything that's chased runs.

But for him, love isn't about letting go.

It's about never losing.

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This story is written for the ONC 2025 for Prompt 125: Fear is the mind-killer. Quote by Frank Herbert Dune

The stunning cover by @keegansantos tysm!! ♡

Trigger Warning:
This story explores themes of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), suicidal thoughts, and death threats. It also includes depictions of substance abuse, alcohol and drug use, and strong language. Reader discretion is advised.

If you are struggling with any of these issues, please seek support. You are not alone. ❤️