Akhil_9999_9

---

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.


---

Eclipsed Fate

Kento stopped his car in front of a grand mansion. The exterior, bathed in the glow of dim streetlights, gave off an eerie yet powerful aura. He stepped out, straightened his coat, and walked up the marble steps. Knocking twice on the massive wooden door, he heard a calm voice from inside.

Kento pushed open the door, stepping into a lavish dining room where a young man sat, sipping coffee. The man looked up, his sharp blue eyes locking onto Kento's face.

"Good evening, sir," Kento greeted formally.

The man raised an eyebrow, setting down his cup.

"Sir? Since when did we start with such formalities? Just call me John... or John Yatharn."

Kento hesitated for a moment before replying, "But the 9th rule of the NPA states that one must show respect to their senior officer."

John sighed, shaking his head with a small smirk. "I'm the same age as you, and yet you make me feel like an old man."

Kento chuckled lightly but still remained stiff. "Apologies, sir."

John waved a hand dismissively. "Forget the rules. This isn't the NPA office."

John leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "So… you brought his number?"

Kento reached into his pocket, pulling out a slip of paper. "Yes. This is it."

John took the paper, studying it carefully before turning toward his laptop. His fingers moved swiftly over the keyboard as he entered the number into a database. His expression was unreadable, his eyes focused.

Kento hesitated for a second before shaking his head. "No, I wasn't able to take one."

John turned his sharp gaze toward him. Kento could feel the weight behind those eyes. After a moment, John leaned back in his chair, sighing. "No problem. I'll figure that out later."

Kento crossed his arms. "But why are you making me investigate this case when you're the one in charge?"

John's fingers stopped moving on the keyboard. He didn't look up when he answered.

John finally looked up, his face serious. "The boy from two years ago. The one who was so sharp-minded that I almost got convinced to adopt him."

Kento's heart skipped a beat. "You mean… Otsuka?"

A heavy silence settled between them. Kento, for the first time, saw something unusual in John's expression. Was it regret? Or something deeper?

Meanwhile, across the city, Akira lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. His conversation with Kento still lingered in his mind. His instincts told him something was off.

Why is he not coming to investigate?

As that thought echoed in his mind, his eyelids grew heavy, and he drifted into sleep… unaware that he was being watched from afar.

Chapter 20: The One Who Watches