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

Akira and Kento locked eyes, an unspoken conversation unfolding between them. Neither moved, neither blinked—both were only trying to read each other.

Kento's gaze was sharp, piercing through the dim hospital lighting. His expression didn't shift, but his eyes spoke volumes. You're the killer, aren't you?

Akira's lips curled into a faint smirk, his tired eyes dark and unreadable. Without speaking, he answered back. And if I am?

Hinata, standing between them, felt a strange tension. It wasn't just hostility—it was something deeper. She swallowed hard, watching them in confusion. Why are they just staring at each other? She wanted to say something, to break this eerie silence, but before she could, Kento did it for her.

"So," Kento finally said, leaning against the doorframe with a lazy smirk. "How are you, Mr. Killer?"

Akira tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "And you?" he replied smoothly. "Who are you, Mr. Unknown?"

Kento chuckled lightly. So, he's playing dumb? He knew Akira had already figured out who he was. But Akira pretended otherwise, keeping his expression indifferent. Kento glanced at Hinata, who was still lost in her own emotions, her eyes glued to Akira.

The affection in her gaze didn't go unnoticed by Kento. Does she really trust him that much?

And then, out of nowhere, she broke down. Tears streamed down her face as she rushed to Akira. "Bomi… Bomi is dead," she sobbed, her voice shaking.

Akira's smirk disappeared. His expression softened—not with sadness, but something else entirely. He caught Hinata in his arms, holding her close.

"Don't cry," he murmured, resting his chin against her shoulder. "If you cry like this… I won't be able to hold back."

Hinata clung to him tighter. She misunderstood his words, thinking Akira was simply mourning for Bomi. In her mind, he was comforting her, sharing her pain. But Kento?

Akira's shoulders trembled slightly—not with sorrow, but suppressed laughter. Kento's lips curled into a small, knowing smile. You want to laugh, don't you?

The hospital room was filled with silent emotions. Hinata, completely unaware, buried her face in Akira's chest.

Then, Kento decided to break the moment.

"If you two are done hugging," he said casually, slipping his hands into his pockets, "may we finally talk for a moment?"

The tension snapped. Akira looked up at Kento, his amusement fading. Hinata wiped her tears, turning towards him.

The battle of words was about to begin.

Chapter 18: The Silent Battle