Picture of Secrets

I woke up the next morning nestled in Aryan's arms. His hold on me was firm, as if refusing to let the night end.

"Sleep a little more," he whispered groggily.

"I can't," I said, trying to wriggle out of his grasp. "I have tons of work. Let me go."

But Aryan only pulled me closer, his warmth anchoring me.

I sighed, kissed him softly, and murmured, "Aryan, it's already late. I have to join work today—my first day back."

He grinned mischievously, wrapped his arm tighter around my waist, and shifted into a more comfortable position.

Suddenly, he grabbed my collar playfully and said, "I don't want to let you go."

I laughed, giving in for a moment. "Fine, one last kiss. Then I have to leave."

I kissed him quickly, barely catching my breath before I added, "Aryan, now seriously! I have a pile of pending work waiting for me."

I kissed him one more time and slid out of bed, heading towards the washroom.

That's when my eyes landed on something unusual—a photo frame on a side table I hadn't noticed before. It was Aryan with a woman I didn't recognize. There was something unsettling yet strangely familiar about her.

Just as I stood there staring, Aryan came up behind me and started kissing my neck, making me flinch slightly.

"Who is she, Aryan?" I asked, pointing at the photo.

He paused for a moment, then said casually, "She was one of my best friends. She gave me that photo years ago."

Though I tried to brush off any suspicion, there was a nagging feeling inside me. The woman's face…it reminded me of someone I couldn't quite place.

Aryan noticed the tension in my expression. "Why do you look so serious?" he asked softly.

"I don't know… it feels like I've seen this girl somewhere before," I admitted, eyes still on the photo.

Aryan chuckled, trying to diffuse the moment. "Relax, okay? Believe me, there was nothing between us."

I placed my hand on his, "Aryan, I'm not doubting you. It's just… this photo feels too familiar, like I know her."

He smiled, pulling me gently towards him. "Just take a chill pill. You have to get ready. Or…" his tone turned teasing, "should I help you in the shower?"

I smirked, "No thanks, Mr. Trouble. I can manage."

With that, I went into the washroom, but even as the water cascaded over me, my mind remained fixated on that photo—and the mysterious girl who seemed to hold a secret from my past.