Maddydegala_26

In the heart of RK Colony, a working-class neighbourhood on the outskirts of Pearl City, Karthik’s peaceful life is shattered when he receives a fateful phone call one morning. His father, Raghupathi, a powerful businessman, has been found dead at a construction site. While the police quickly rule it a suicide, Karthik senses something more sinister at play.

As he navigates through grief, the funeral, and relentless police inquiries continues. Karthik leans on his girlfriend, Siri, and his best friend, Rishi. However, cracks begin to form in his reality with his father’s past dealings. New evidence surfaces that suggests the truth is far more complex. As Karthik digs deeper, he uncovers betrayal, hidden motives, and a conspiracy that turns the case on its head. 

The novel is a gripping tale of love, loss, and deception, exploring the depths of human emotion as Karthik fights for justice, uncovering a dark web of secrets that threaten to destroy everything he holds dear.

Who Killed My Father

The police station buzzed with activity. Duty officers, complainants, criminals, and suspects filled the space. Every officer was busy with their assigned tasks. Some were taking statements, others manned the station entrance, and still others discussed pending cases. The SI and Chari were in the SI's office, discussing the legal procedures for Siri's court appearance.

Siri sat in the lockup, huddled in a corner, her knees drawn up to her chest. Tears streamed down her face, her future bleak.

Karthik entered the station, a stark contrast to his earlier defiant self. His posture was defeated, his voice subdued. He asked a constable about the SI and was directed to the office.

His entry interrupted the SI and Chari's conversation.

"Hi, sir," Karthik greeted the SI.

"I need to talk to Siri. Please, can I?"

Seeing Karthik's demeanor, the SI nodded. Chari escorted Karthik to the lockup.

"Here she is," Chari said, pointing to Siri, then returned to his desk opposite the lockup.

Hearing his voice, Siri looked up from her dark corner. She took a few steps toward him, then stopped, overcome with grief. She turned away.

"Why are you doing this, Siri?" Karthik asked.

Siri remained silent, listening to his heartfelt plea. She longed to hear his voice, to hold onto it for as long as possible.

"My heart tells me you're innocent, and I trust it. I trust our love. I trust you. Did you do this just because the police were framing me? If so, you're being foolish. If we've done nothing wrong, why should we be afraid?"

Siri continued to stare at the wall. Her cellmates, however, listened to Karthik as if they were watching a love story unfold before them.

"I'll hire the best lawyer in the country to fight for you. I want you back with me."

"I'm not afraid of anyone, Karthik," Siri said, finally turning to face him. "What I said is true. I killed your father. I'll confess in court. It's a waste of time and money to hire a lawyer for me. I think this will be our last meeting."

Karthik was devastated. His heart ached with her words. Tears welled up in his eyes. He slowly backed away and walked out of the station. Siri turned back as soon as she felt his absence and continued to silently grieve.

Chari, who had overheard their conversation, was also moved. He wiped his eyes. Siri's cellmates, equally affected, tried to comfort her.

Siri was sentenced to fourteen years in prison.

The hours dragged by, the days offering no respite from the lovers' pain. Karthik was consumed by grief. He spent his days and nights drinking, unable to sleep. He cut himself off from the world, ignoring his friends' calls and visits. He was haunted by memories of Siri and his father, a lost and lonely figure in his own home.

7: The Lost