Chapter 3: The Shadows Around Her

Avni tried to return to her normal routine, but her thoughts were clouded by the man who seemed to appear out of nowhere. His warning echoed in her mind, though she couldn't understand why it unsettled her so deeply.

At school, her friends teased her about her distraction, but she brushed it off. She walked home later than usual that evening, the streetlights flickering in the dim twilight. Suddenly, she felt it—a presence behind her. She quickened her pace, clutching her bag tightly.

"Going somewhere in a hurry?" a low voice asked. She froze, her breath catching.

Aarav stepped out of the shadows, his expression unreadable. His black shirt blended with the night, and his sharp features seemed even more intimidating under the flickering light.

"What are you doing here?" she asked, her voice trembling.

"I told you this area isn't safe," he said, his tone calm but firm. "And yet here you are."

"I can take care of myself," she replied, though the quiver in her voice betrayed her.

Aarav stepped closer, his eyes narrowing. "You have no idea who watches you, who waits for a moment of weakness." His voice softened, but his intensity didn't waver. "I don't want anything to happen to you, Avni."

Her heart raced as she looked into his eyes, filled with something she couldn't name. Possession? Concern? Both?

Before she could respond, Aarav pulled out a phone. "From now on, if you feel unsafe, call me. No arguments."