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 looked at Kento and then turned to Hinata, his eyes narrowing. "Who is he?"

Hinata, still trying to stop her tears, sniffled and wiped her eyes. "He's Kento Takeshi… an NPA officer."

Kento smirked slightly and stepped forward, his sharp gaze fixed on Akira. "So, you're Akira Toizawa. Mind if I get to know you a little more?" He tilted his head, his voice casual but calculated. "Like your age… or your family?"

Akira stared at him blankly before answering in a monotone voice. "Seventeen. And I'm an orphan."

Kento's expression didn't change, but his eyes seemed to be analyzing Akira's every move. "Why did you come to the hospital?"

"For medicine," Akira replied flatly.

Kento exhaled slowly, shifting his stance. "Only for medicine? You expect me to believe that?" His gaze dropped to Akira's posture on the bed. "What kind of medicine makes someone collapse like this?"

Before Akira could reply, the door suddenly swung open. A woman rushed in, slightly out of breath. "Stay away from my patient," she said firmly, her eyes locking onto Kento.

Kento turned to her with mild amusement. "Soooo… you must be his doctor."

The woman crossed her arms. "That's right. And you don't have the authority to question him like this."

Kento ignored her hostility and asked, "What illness keeps someone lying in bed like this?"

She let out a small sigh before replying, "He is mentally unstable. Look at his dark circles. His brain doesn't allow him to rest properly, making him restless and weak."

Kento glanced back at Akira, intrigued. "I see… So, your mind is your own worst enemy, huh?"

Akira didn't answer. He simply watched Kento in silence.

Kento suddenly held out his hand. "Give me your phone."

Without hesitation, Akira reached into his pocket and handed his unlocked phone to Kento.

Kento raised an eyebrow. "Only two contacts?" He smirked and started typing. "Let me be the third."

Hinata watched in confusion. "Why are you saving your number in his phone?"

Kento chuckled as he handed the phone back. "I want to make friends." His tone was lighthearted, but his eyes carried something deeper.

He turned toward the door and casually waved. "I'll be seeing you again, Akira."

As he walked away, Hinata and Akira exchanged glances.

The doctor sighed and turned to Akira. "You can go home now. Do you need a ride?"

Chapter 19: Questions Without Answers