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

The morning air was crisp, yet the loud commotion outside shattered its usual calm. Hinata rubbed her sleepy eyes as she stepped out onto the apartment corridor, drawn by the noise.

She immediately spotted Akira standing nearby, his posture stiff as if something had already ruined his day.

"Good morning," she greeted, flashing him a warm smile.

Akira's gaze softened slightly. "Did you sleep well?"

"Yes," she replied, then noticed something unusual. "Your dark circles look lighter today. Is it because of the medicine?"

Hinata turned toward the source of the noise—several people moving large boxes into the apartment next to Akira's.

"Wait, did you get a new neighbor?" she asked excitedly.

Akira's expression darkened. His silence spoke volumes—whoever it was, he wasn't pleased.

Before Hinata could press further, a familiar voice rang out.

She turned sharply. A man carrying a stack of boxes that nearly covered his face stood there. When he shifted slightly, revealing part of his face, Hinata gasped.

Kento smirked, shifting the weight of the boxes. "Wow, so rude. No one's even offering to help their new neighbor?"

Akira's eyes remained cold, his voice dripping with disinterest. "I don't help people from the police."

Kento chuckled. "Oh? So that's why you're not helping me, Otsuka?"

Akira's eyes widened for the briefest moment, but he quickly masked his reaction. Kento, however, caught it—and smiled in victory.

Without another word, Kento disappeared into his new apartment.

Hinata frowned, puzzled. "Why did he call you Otsuka? Who is that?"

"I don't know," Akira muttered, his tone flat.

Hinata wanted to push further, but Akira changed the subject. "What are your plans for today?"

"I was about to ask you the same," she said.

"I will—" Akira started, but before he could finish, Kento's voice interrupted from his open doorway.

Hinata blinked in confusion. "Why would he?"

"Because he's my friend," Kento said smoothly, grinning. "Right, Akuuu?"

Akira's brow twitched in irritation. "Will you stop calling me that?"

"Anyway, I'm not helping you," Akira declared and turned to his door.

"Suit yourself," Kento shrugged, walking into his apartment.

Hinata pouted. "How can you just walk in without his permission? Even I haven't been inside yet!"

Ignoring her, Kento glanced around the room carefully.

Hinata, unable to resist, peeked inside too—only to see Akira mid-change.

"Ack!" She yelped, rushing out in embarrassment.

Kento chuckled. "So… are you coming, Otsuka?"

Akira pulled his shirt on and shot Kento an unreadable look. "Is John coming?"

Kento froze for a split second, stunned.

So… he already knows. John was right. He really is a genius.

Recovering quickly, Kento smirked. "I'll call him."

Kento's grin widened. "Good. Let's see how this plays out."

Chapter 21: An Unexpected Neighbour