I reluctantly pull myself out of bed, having had just enough beauty sleep to be functional. A refreshing shower is my first step to ensure I look polished and put-together. 

The heat is so intense that it's almost as if it's mocking my discomfort, pushing me to my limits and leaving me desperately longing for a breath of cool air.

I apply makeup and wear a floral skirt and crop top after taking a shower to make myself appear more attractive than I actually am.

I need to look my best, not just for Navya, but to make a positive impression on her family.

Every time I go there I have to look more beautiful than ever, all because of.... her brother?

Navya's family has always felt like my second family. Whenever I've faced difficulties or life has been particularly harsh, I've found solace at their home. They've embraced me with warmth and love that made me feel like one of their own. Yet, despite their kindness, I can't help but wrestle with a deep sense of envy. I look at how perfect and harmonious Navya's family is, and it stings sharply in contrast to my own.

My own family feels like a world apart—driven by wealth and ambition, living under one roof but often feeling like disconnected islands. Their focus on material gain and status leaves me feeling isolated, and I struggle with the contrast between their world and the genuine, nurturing environment that Navya's family provides. The admiration I have for their perfect happiness is tainted by my own insecurities and jealousy, making me feel bitter and ashamed. 

Her parents are the epitome of a perfect, happy couple. Mrs. Malhotra, in particular, seems almost like a goddess. I can't help but feel a pang of envy whenever I see her. Her beauty and grace are truly captivating. I envy the way her long, luscious hair always falls perfectly into place, even when she's just woken up. Her eyes, sparkling with warmth and kindness, always seem to light up when she smiles. And that smile—so effortlessly radiant—draws everyone's attention and leaves me feeling a twinge of admiration and jealousy.

She is undoubtedly fortunate to have Manik Malhotra as her husband, a partnership that many would envy. However, her demanding career as a pageant queen and brand owner comes with significant challenges. Balancing these high-profile responsibilities is no small feat, and the toll it takes is evident. The relentless schedule often leaves her fatigued and worn out, to the point where finding time to sit down for a meal with her family becomes a rare luxury. The pressure and exhaustion from her professional commitments clearly impact her ability to fully engage in family life.

And then there's her father, Manik, who seems like a walking deity on this earth—he truly deserves nothing but the best. I mean, just look at him; he's the epitome of perfection! I could go on and on about him, talking endlessly without ever needing a break. He's just that remarkable, and his presence is so awe-inspiring that it's hard to imagine anyone who could measure up to him.

I could spend hours gushing about him! His black hair, always perfectly backcombed and gelled, is like a work of art. And those piercing black eyes—they're like an ocean that seems to look right into my soul every time our gazes meet. His angelic smile has this magical way of brightening even my darkest days. And his voice... it has the power to resonate deep within me, sending shivers down my spine. Honestly, I could rave about him endlessly, never growing tired of celebrating every incredible detail.

Unfortunately, despite my admiration for him, his son—whom I may or may not be dating—seems to be a stark contrast. It's disheartening that he doesn't resemble his father in the ways that matter most to me. It feels like a bittersweet reminder that while I hold such high regard for his father, the reality with his son is quite different, leaving me with mixed emotions.

I mean, Dhruv is undeniably good-looking—tall, with a well-defined physique and abs that make heads turn. Girls often drool over him, and he definitely has the kind of appearance that attracts a lot of attention. But, honestly, I find myself less impressed by those abs. Despite his physical appeal, there's something missing for me, and I hate that.

Dhruv excels in many areas—he's the captain of our school's soccer team, a role that demands leadership and skill, and he consistently earns high grades in his exams. His achievements are impressive and noteworthy, and he certainly stands out in his own right. However, despite his accomplishments, he doesn't quite seem to possess the same exceptional talents or charisma that his father has.

As a senior, Dhruv is nearly two years older than me and Navya, which adds a layer of maturity to his profile. Yet, despite his impressive resume and the respect he commands among peers, there's an undeniable gap between him and his father's extraordinary presence. This contrast sometimes feels pronounced, especially when I reflect on the immense admiration I hold for his dad.

I mean, I do like him, but love? That's a different story. I've been struggling with my feelings, and despite my affection for him, I can't genuinely say I'm in love. It's confusing and painful, and I hate myself for it, but I can't seem to change how I feel. I've come to realize that it's unfair to continue pretending that my feelings are deeper than they are. I can't keep lying to him, pretending that I love him when I don't. So, I've decided that tonight is the night to end everything. It's a difficult decision, but it's the only way to be honest with both him and myself.

So, here I am, standing in front of the Malhotra Mansion, feeling a whirlwind of emotions. It's like I'm caught between reality and the storm of my thoughts. The weight of what's about to happen presses heavily on me, and I can't shake the uncertainty of whether this is the right moment or if there's still a chance to unravel the confusion swirling in my mind.

I anxiously await Navya to answer the door. She assured me that the house would be empty, with Dhruv out with his friends and not expected back until around 11 PM. Manik and Mrs Malhotra are both out of the state, attending an event, so their absence has left the house unusually quiet. I keep replaying Navya's words in my mind, hoping everything will go as planned and that the timing will be right.

My fingers hover nervously over the doorbell, and I remind myself of the reason for this visit. Despite the serene setting, the emotional weight of what's about to unfold makes it clear that this is not just another evening at the Malhotra Mansion—it's charged with uncertainty and heartfelt decisions.

I find myself fuming as I stand in front of the mansion, growing increasingly frustrated. "Navya, answer the damn door!" I think, my patience wearing thin. The quiet seems to mock my anxiety, and the waiting has become unbearable. 

Determined to get a response, I decided to knock on the door, suspecting that the doorbell might be malfunctioning. As I gently knock, my hand unexpectedly encounters something soft. Startled, I looked up, and my breath caught in my throat. My fingers have unintentionally brushed against someone's lips. The touch is electric, and for a moment, everything seems to freeze. His lips are warm and surprisingly soft, and... 

When my gaze eventually reaches their lips, I see that he is bleeding, and my heart sinks. The sight sends a wave of panic through me. My clumsy knock must have caused it, and the realization that I'm responsible for his injury hits me hard, and I can't help but feel that I've irrevocably damaged something precious.

My eyes meet his, and the intensity of the situation only amplifies the emotional turbulence within me. "Please don't scold me," I plead softly, my words laced with both desperation and a hint of vulnerability. "I didn't mean for this to happen. I— I'm sorry for sure." My heart races, and the gravity of the situation feels overwhelming. The romantic tension of our earlier moment now feels overshadowed by my overwhelming guilt.

I want to fix it. I just want to make it right, but I'm at a loss for words. All I can think about is how to apologize and erase the harm I've caused, hoping for some understanding in this deeply embarrassing and dramatic moment.

To be continued... 

Author's Note- 

Who is this and what are they going to do to her ???

Don't forget to vote and comment!!!

Ignore my mistakes.

Date - 01.08.2024.