Akhil_9999_9

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Dark Circles, Dark Secrets is a gripping web novel that delves into the emotional complexities of trauma, societal pressure, and hidden truths. The story follows a young man burdened by a painful past, struggling with the effects of child abuse and the harsh realities of the world around him. Alongside him is Hinata, a bright and optimistic figure whose warmth contrasts with the darkness he carries.

As their lives intertwine, secrets are revealed, and the characters must confront their deepest fears. With themes of police brutality, personal struggles, and the search for redemption, the novel explores how our pasts shape who we are and whether it’s possible to break free from the darkness.


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Eclipsed Fate

Hinata narrowed her eyes at the young man standing beside her. Why does he want to meet Akira with me? Who exactly is he?

"Why together?" she asked, her voice laced with suspicion. "And who even are you?"

Kento smiled, as if he had been waiting for this question. "Ah, my bad," he said casually. "I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Kento Takeshi, senior officer from the NPA."

Hinata's breath hitched. NPA? The National Police Agency? She turned her gaze back to Bomi's house, where flashing red and blue lights painted the night in eerie shades. Bomi's lifeless body… the blood… it was all too much.

Still shaken, she hesitantly agreed.

She was about to call a cab when she felt a firm grip on her wrist.

"If we're going together, let's just take my car," Kento said smoothly.

Hinata pulled her hand back immediately, her voice sharp. "You're crossing the line."

Kento chuckled, raising both hands in mock surrender. "Sorry, force of habit."

Still uneasy, she followed him to the car. The sleek black vehicle looked expensive, almost out of place in the dimly lit neighborhood. Sliding into the passenger seat, she kept her hands in her lap, stiff and alert.

As they drove through the quiet streets, Kento glanced at her. "So, how do you know Akira?"

Hinata hesitated before replying. "He's my neighbor… and my classmate."

Kento hummed in response, as if digesting the information. "And how long has it been since you first met him?"

Hinata frowned. "I think… nine, maybe ten days?"

Kento let out a short whistle. "Only ten days, huh?" His tone carried a hint of amusement. "That means you don't really know him." He smirked. "And here I thought I could learn something useful about him from you."

Hinata stiffened. Why does it sound like he's already made up his mind?

"I know enough," she countered. "And I'm sure Akira isn't the murderer. This has to be some kind of misunderstanding."

Kento didn't argue. Instead, he simply smiled. "It's my job to find out. And trust me… I've seen a lot of cases like this before."

Hinata studied his face in the dim glow of the streetlights. He looked young, much younger than what she imagined a senior officer should be.

"You don't look that old," she blurted out.

Kento chuckled. "That's because I'm not. I'm only twenty."

Hinata blinked. Twenty? And he's already in such a high position?

Before she could ask more, the car slowed in front of Takamochi Hospital.

Kento stepped out first, heading straight to the reception desk. Flashing his ID, he spoke in a calm yet authoritative tone.

"Can I get the room number of a patient named Akira?"

The nurse glanced at the computer screen. "Can you tell me his full name?"

"Akira Toizawa," she said immediately.

The nurse typed for a few seconds before nodding. "Room number 9, first floor."

Hinata followed him up the stairs, her heartbeat increasing with every step. Please be here, Akira…

They reached Room 9. Kento placed his hand on the doorknob, pausing for a second.

Hinata clenched her fists. Please be here… please…

Akira lay on the hospital bed, staring out the window. The dim light cast a soft glow on his face, his dark hair slightly messy. He turned his head slowly.

Chapter 17: The Encounter