Adultery My Wife Got Schemed into an Affair by Me, but Why? [Completed]

[heygiwriter]

Hey guys, I’m new to this platform!


About me: I love writing stories—especially rom com stories. I initially wanted to focus more on rom-com and sci-fi, but the platforms I wrote on never gave me much recognition or reach. For instance, I wrote on Wattpad, but my work never really took off there.

However, I noticed that erotic stories tend to get a lot of responses and feedback. Like any writer seeking recognition, I decided to try writing two stories in that genre. As expected, I got my first feedback and comments, but it still wasn’t enough, and the engagement gradually dropped.

Now, motivated by that initial response, I’ve decided to write here—the platform where I used to read adult stories and where I feel my target audience truly is. This is my first story here, so I hope you guys show it some love and share your thoughts!

This story is purely fictional—no real characters, all imagination. :)

With Love HeyGi


My Wife Got Schemed into an Affair by Me, but Why? - a Tragic Love Story [18+]

Introduction:  Arjun sat rigid in the opulent lobby of the luxury hotel, his mid-20s frame tense beneath the tailored suit. They could arrive any moment—his ex-colleague Vikram and his beloved Pooja, his wife. He knew what he was about to do could tarnish her image irreparably, yet he had no other choice. With trembling hands, he placed the recorder on the marble table and concealed the camera, his heart pounding as he braced for their arrival. 
The sound of Pooja's laughter pierced the air, followed by Vikram's unmistakable flirtations—his voice low, his gestures bold as he leaned closer, hands brushing her waist. They weren't at fault; he had orchestrated this betrayal, every whispered lie, every staged moment, to free her from the shadow of his dying breath. 

As Vikram's touch lingered, Arjun's heart shattered, knowing he'd pushed his soulmate into another's embrace—for love, for her life, for a future he'd never witness.

Arjun: Mid-20s - Husband of Pooja, he loves her deeply. Six months, the doctor decreed, before the curse claims him. But can he truly let her go?
Vikram: Mid-20s - He knows she is married and that something troubles Arjun, but he doesn't care. His goal is to trick her into bed, make her leave Arjun, and marry him. Manipulation is his strength.
Pooja: Mid-20s - Wife of Arjun, her first love. She fought hard to marry him, but his recent distance pains her. Determined to fix it, she battles creeping doubts. She finds a new friend in Vikram, who seems supportive. Despite Arjun's growing distance or Vikram's increasing closeness, she remains loyal. But can she resist Vikram for long?
Dive into the story of the trio—Arjun, Pooja, and Vikram—where love, manipulation, desire, and sacrifice take center stage. Arjun, a gem, chooses to sacrifice his love for her. Vikram, the cunning yet charismatic manipulator, levels the playing field. Pooja, torn between two loves, struggles to discern which is true.

Note to Readers: This is not an erotica drama, where sex overlaps first...but a deeply emotional tragedy exploring how far a man will go for love. Prepare for heartbreak, sacrifice, and the raw cost of devotion. And yes you will get erotica part too

[heygiwriter]

Chaper 1 - Arjun's discovery & desicion [Sometimes letting one go is also love]

Arjun's hands trembled on the steering wheel, the doctor's words looping like a cruel mantra in his head.

"Stage two, Arjun. The damage from your smoking and drinking habits has gone too far—reversal is impossible. Discuss this with your family soon. Don't wait."

The sterile clinic room felt like a distant nightmare now, but the faint he'd suffered that morning at his startup lingered, a sharp reminder of his crumbling body. He needed Pooja. He needed to bury his face in her shoulder and let the tears come. A year? If he was lucky?

The thought twisted like a knife. Slowly, he navigated the bustling Chennai streets, the engine's hum a mocking lullaby.

He pulled into the underground parking lot of the IT Park, the dim fluorescent lights casting long shadows over the concrete. This spot—bay number 47—held their beginning. It was here he'd first seen Pooja, her scooty kicking up dust as she parked with that determined smile.

And it was here he'd stolen her heart from Vikram's grasp. Arjun killed the engine, leaning back against the seat, eyes closing as memories flooded in.

Late 2022. Pooja had just arrived from Coimbatore, fresh-faced and fierce, her dupatta fluttering like a flag of independence.

The bullying started almost immediately. A group of rowdy colleagues from the sales team cornered her near the elevators, their laughter crude. "New girl from the small town? Bet you can't handle the big city pace," one sneered, blocking her path. Pooja stood tall, chin lifted, but her eyes flashed with hurt.

Arjun, passing by with his coffee, couldn't stand it.

"Hey, back off," he said, stepping between them, his voice steady despite the adrenaline.

"She's part of the team now. Touch her scooty again, and you'll answer to me."

The bullies muttered and slunk away, and Pooja turned to him, her dark eyes wide. "Thank you,"

she said softly. "I'm Pooja." "Arjun," he replied, offering a grin. "Welcome to the chaos."

From that day, their friendship sparked like code compiling flawlessly.

In the break room, over steaming filter coffee, they'd chat about everything—her love for Tamil poetry, his failed attempts at coding poetry apps. "You know, Arjun, back in Coimbatore, I'd ride my scooty through the hills, dreaming of places like this," she confessed one afternoon, stirring her cup. He laughed. "And here I am, dreaming of escaping the hills of deadlines. Tell me more about those poems." Their conversations flowed, easy and electric, her laughter pulling him like gravity.

One key moment etched forever: the late-night debugging session. The team was racing against a client deadline, screens glowing in the empty office. Pooja's fingers flew over her keyboard, frustration mounting as a bug eluded her.

"This code is mocking me," she groaned, rubbing her temples. Arjun slid his chair closer, peering at her screen. "Let me see. Here—try nesting the loop like this." Together, they fixed it, high-fiving as the program ran perfectly.

"You're a lifesaver," she said, her hand lingering on his.

"We make a good team, don't we?"

He nodded, heart racing. "The best."

Vikram  lurked in the background, a shadow with sharp edges. The company's notorious womanizer, he flashed smiles like currency, but his words to women were often laced with innuendo.

Pooja was different, though. At the annual tech conference, she'd spotted a flaw in Vikram's presentation demo just in time.

"Wait—your algorithm's looping infinitely,"

she whispered urgently as he fumbled on stage. Her quick fix via a shared laptop saved him from disaster.

Backstage, Vikram pulled her aside. "Pooja, that was brilliant. Dinner to celebrate? My treat." She smiled politely. "Thanks, but I've got plans with the team." Arjun watched from afar, a flicker of protectiveness igniting.

Rumors spread like wildfire: Vikram was smitten, planning a grand proposal with roses in the parking lot, his "love" a thinly veiled lure for something more carnal.

Closer colleagues warned Arjun. "He's eyed her since day one, man. Don't let him snag her." Arjun's love for Pooja had deepened quietly—her quiet strength, the way she defended underdogs like she had for him in small ways. He couldn't lose her. Heart pounding, he raced to the parking lot that evening, spotting Vikram's car pulling in with a bouquet visible on the seat.

Pooja was there, adjusting her scooty helmet, oblivious. Arjun burst from his car. "Pooja, wait!" She turned, surprised. "Arjun? What's wrong?" He took a breath, words spilling out. "I can't hold this in anymore. From the day you parked here, you've been in my head. I love you—your fire, your kindness. Be mine?" Her eyes softened, a blush rising. "Arjun... I feel the same. I've been waiting for you to say it." They hugged under the harsh lights, the world fading. Vikram arrived moments later, bouquet in hand, but froze at the sight, stepping back into the shadows without a word.

Their love bloomed unapologetically after that.

Another memory: their first weekend getaway to a quiet beach near Mahabalipuram. The spot became their regular love meet place. After weeks of stolen kisses, they escaped to a beachside guesthouse near Mahabalipuram. "Promise you'll always protect me?" Pooja teased, sand clinging to her feet. Arjun pulled her close. "Always. You're my everything." Under the stars, their whispers turned to passion—her hands tracing his scars, his lips on her neck. "You're perfect," she breathed.

That night, they consummated their love, a vow sealed in tenderness. Days later, they married in Coimbatore, a grand affair with silk sarees, fireworks, and her family's blessings—everyone came, except Vikram. Arjun knows, even though Vikram was a womanizer, he had once treated a woman as a woman, and that is Pooja. How could he bear to see her marrying someone?

Their wedding cemented their loyalty. Diwali followed, a joyous celebration at her parents' home. "Uncle, I'll cherish Pooja forever," Arjun promised over dinner. Pooja squeezed his hand under the table. "He already does, Appa." On the terrace, fireworks painted the sky as she whispered, "With you, anywhere is home." Their love deepened, her devotion unwavering as she balanced work and their new life.

Pooja stayed at the IT firm, her salary anchoring them as Arjun launched his startup. One rainy evening, after investors bailed, she handed him a plate of hot pakoras. "We're in this together. Quit if you must, but I'm not leaving." He hugged her tight. "What did I do to earn you?" Their chemistry shone—banter over breakfast, her head on his shoulder during films, a love that felt invincible.

Their intimacy grew, a blend of passion and tenderness. One night, after a long day, Pooja massaged his shoulders. "You carry too much," she said softly. "Let me share it." Arjun turned, pulling her into his lap. "You're my strength, Pooja. I love you more every day." Their kisses deepened, bodies entwining in quiet devotion, her loyalty a vow unspoken.

But now, in the parking lot,

reality crashed back. Arjun's phone buzzed—a text from Pooja: Where are you? Miss you.

Tears welled as he gripped the wheel. How could he tell her? A year left, if that. The curse of his habits had caught up, and he couldn't drag her into widowhood's shadow.

Vikram came down from the office, he entered his car. Arjun, seeing him from his car, his mind asked—What if Vikram takes care of Pooja after my exit, the man with money from his family business, a heart hidden beneath his rough exterior, and eyes that had once lingered on Pooja too long?

Mind Voice: Arjun's mind: Shit, what am I even thinking?

His mind despised him. But his mind quickly accepted one thing: no more dramas, weakness, sobbing. I can't let the woman I love suffer lonely. He decided to leave her for good and ensure her happiness safely in someone's hands before his demise. It was a momentary decision he never thought he would cling on it, proposing Pooja once was also like this!

Arjun started the car again, resolve hardening. He had to let her go, push her toward someone stable. It was madness, but for her future, he'd orchestrate the unthinkable. As he drove toward home, the memories mocked him. Their love was everything. Wasn't it worth the heartbreak?

Vikram, who saw Arjun coming to the parking lot but didn't pick up Pooja, caused a doubt. Not sure what Vikram thought, he stopped the engine and waited for Pooja. He knew their house. Maybe Arjun got running for an emergency, let me pick her and drop her at home, he thought.

Two hours later, Pooja came down, she had called Arjun a lot of times but he didn't pick up the call.

Vikram offered Pooja a lift, he said two hours back, Arjun came but it looks like some emergency, he went away.

Pooja: "You've just been here for two hours?"

Vikram: "Yeah, I was waiting for you."

Pooja: "Why?"

Vikram: "I sensed something wrong with Arjun, so thought I could help if he didn't come to pick you. I tried your call, but it's not reachable, so stayed here."

Pooja looked at her mobile, she dialed Vikram's number. (Unknown to her, Arjun had once blocked Vikram's contact.)

Pooja, not sure what's happening, decided to trust Vikram at that point. Vikram, for his sake, dialed Arjun's number; his luck, Arjun had blocked his number.

Finally, Pooja got into Vikram's car. While the duo started there ...

Arjun had not reached home, his mind made him drive toward Mahabalipuram beach guesthouse where he used to go with Pooja.
While driving....
He looked at the mirror, he said, "Sometimes letting one go is also LOVE!"

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 2 - Unexpected Entry of Vikram into Arjun - Pooja life

Prologue ***

Arjun Knew, He need some to
Arjun Smirk's Not This Soon

Present day

Arjun drove toward Mahabalipuram, Pooja's text—Where are you? Miss you—unread on his phone. The doctor's words echoed: a year, if lucky, before his habits took him.

Memories

He remembered their first fight after the wedding. "You're overworking, Arjun!" Pooja had said sharply in their Chennai flat. He snapped back, "It's for us!" She hugged him, voice soft. "I'm staying, always." Her touch calmed him, and he murmured, "You're my world."

At the IT Park rooftop, Pooja threw a surprise party for his startup launch. Fairy lights glowed as she handed him juice. "You did it!" she exclaimed. "Only with you," he said, dancing with her. Her laughter lifted his heart, her support a steady force. Colleagues cheered, but her smile was his anchor.

In Coimbatore, during a family visit, her father asked, "How's the startup?" "Tough," Arjun admitted. Pooja cut in, "He's giving everything, Appa." She squeezed his hand under the table. On the balcony, she leaned on him. "They love you like I do." He kissed her forehead. "I'll protect that."

Same Night Parallely

"Vikram, pull over here!" Pooja said, jumping out as they reached their Chennai home. She noticed the lights were off, signs arjun not yet reached, his car is not there.

She dialed Arjun's number—silence.

"Where is he?" she muttered, calling colleagues and friends.

The startup manager picked up. "Pooja? He fainted this morning, went to the hospital. He's been off since the result of quarter report came"

Her voice trembled. Why didnt he informed me? Where is he now, Where i will find him now? He is not picking the calls.

Vikram , Vikram, can you help me find him?"

Vikram nodded. "Dont panic Pooja, he might have went somewhere, calm down, let me think

Do you both have any fights, VIkram asked

No pooja said,

Then fine, i saw him in car parking, he was really in good state, may be someones emergency, or he might be depressed so he is avoiding calls, Vikram explained.

He further asked: where do you both go often?"

She paused. "The Mahabalipuram guesthouse.

Let's hurry!" He opened the car door. "Get in, we'll find him."

Arjun stilll driving almost close to the guest house his mind drifted to a late-night coding crisis.

A server crash hit his startup, and Pooja found him at 2 a.m. "You look dead," she teased, bringing tea. "Help me?" he asked. They fixed it together, her hand on his. "You're my partner," he said. She smiled. "Always." Her support turned his exhaustion to hope.

Their anniversary at the Mahabalipuram guesthouse replayed. A year after their wedding, they stood by the sea. "Remember our first night?" Pooja asked, blushing. "Every second," he said, holding her. "I vow to love you forever." She kissed him. "I'll stay, no matter what." The waves sealed their promise.



Same Night Parallely - Vikram and Poooja towards mahabalipuram



In the car, Pooja fidgeted restlessly as Vikram pushed the vehicle toward Mahabalipuram, the engine's roar a frantic pulse against her rising panic. He reached out, grasping her hand to steady her trembling, his voice low but firm.

"We'll find him, Pooja, I promise,"

he said, their palms pressing tight, her sweat-tender touch igniting an unexpected fire within him.

A surge of perverse thoughts flashed through his mind—unbidden, raw—his body betraying him with a heat he couldn't suppress. Why now, of all moments? he cursed silently, shame clawing at his gut as he battled the sensation, his grip tightening despite himself.

Desperate to help, to honor Arjun's unspoken trust, he wrestled with the dark impulse, his jaw clenched as he tore his focus back to the road, the speedometer climbing to 150 km, the night blurring past in a desperate race against his own demons.



Arjun Made a u-turn to guest house, he honked the horn for watch man to open, another memory surface

Loyalty shone when a developer left. Pooja stayed late, rewriting code. "We'll fix this," she said. He kissed her hand. "You're my rock." Their intimacy grew—her massaging his shoulders, him pulling her close. "You carry too much," she whispered. "You're my strength," he replied, their kisses deep with devotion.



Arjun stumbled into the guesthouse, his gaze locking onto the restless sea beyond the window, its dark waves crashing like the fragments of his shattered resolve.

The weight of his decision pressed against his chest—he vowed not to burden Pooja with his fading truth, determined to slip away soon, leaving her to forge a new life.

If she uncovered the depth of his illness, her love—fierce and unyielding—would chain her to his dying side, a widow's fate she'd never escape.

Making her hate him became his only salvation, a cruel dagger to sever their bond, freeing her to find someone new. His breath hitched as he whispered to the empty room, "Let her go, let her live," the words tasting of ash and sacrifice, each syllable a tear he couldn't shed.



20 Minutes Later,

A Thar Jeep roared into view, its rugged silhouette slicing through the dusk—the same SUV he'd glimpsed hours ago, now a harbinger of fate.

Pooja leapt out, her figure a blur of desperation as she sprinted toward the guesthouse, her chudidhar clinging to her form, curves bouncing with each frantic step—a sight both achingly beautiful and devastatingly foreign.

For the first time, Arjun saw her through a stranger's eyes, the allure that had drawn others' gazes, even Vikram's predatory stare, now a painful revelation.

Better she finds someone stronger, someone whole, he thought, his voice breaking as he murmured, "Go away, Pooja. Meet someone, marry, live—find a life I can't give." The sea roared in agreement, its fury mirroring the storm raging within him, as he turned from the window, heart fracturing under the weight of his impending loss.

Another figure emerged—Vikram. Arjun's face twisted in a storm of emotions, a flicker of grim recognition lighting his eyes like a dying ember.

He's always eyed her, that hungry gaze from the parking lot days, waiting for his chance. When he was gone, Vikram would swoop in, claim her with his wealth and hidden heart. But not this soon? The irony clawed at him—destiny mocking their sacred bond, thrusting the very man he'd once thwarted into her path now, as if the universe conspired to rip his world apart. Worry surged like a tidal wave, crashing against a twisted relief that his plan might unfold without effort; yet, the sight of them together, so close, ignited a jealous fire in his chest, burning hotter than any curse. His vision blurred, legs buckling under the weight of it all—the love he'd sworn to protect, now slipping through his fingers like sand. He collapsed onto the bed, the sea's relentless roar fading into darkness as Vikram and Pooja's footsteps echoed closer, sealing his faint in a haze of shattered resolve.
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[heygiwriter]

Chapter 3 - Fractured Tides

The night unfurled its dark wings over the Mahabalipuram guesthouse, where the air hung heavy with salt and unspoken tension. Earlier that evening, Arjun, grappling with a terminal diagnosis and a crumbling startup burdened by debt, fled to this sanctuary of past love, feigning drunkenness to push Pooja away and ignite her hatred. Meanwhile, Pooja, frantic after learning of his hospital visit and faint, enlisted Vikram's help to track him down. Their journey converged at the guesthouse, where the trio faced a storm of emotions—Arjun's desperate lies, Pooja's unwavering devotion, and Vikram's calculated kindness laced with perverse intent. As the sea roared outside, their dynamics fractured under the weight of sacrifice, blame, and hidden desire. Hear it from each of their perspectives:



Pooja's POV The guesthouse door flew open as I burst in, heart pounding like the waves outside. "Arjun!" I cried, spotting him collapsed on the bed, pale and unmoving. Vikram was right behind me, his presence a steady anchor in my panic. I rushed to Arjun's side, cradling his head, my fingers brushing his clammy forehead. "Wake up, love. Please." He stirred, eyes fluttering open, hazy and unfocused. Relief flooded me—he was alive, breathing. "What happened? Why here?" I whispered, stroking his cheek. Vikram hovered at the door, his voice calm. "He might've fainted again. Let's get him water." I nodded, my love for Arjun surging unconditional, ready to hold him through anything. Even as he mumbled something about debt and my "fault," I squeezed his hand. "We'll fix it together. I'm here."

Arjun sat up slowly, reeking of stale alcohol, though I knew he hadn't drunk today. "Pooja... you came," he slurred, but his eyes were sharp for a second before glazing over. I helped him to the porch, the sea air crisp against my skin. "Tell me what's wrong," I urged, sitting beside him, my chudidhar damp from the run. Vikram joined us, offering a bottle. "Drink this, Arjun." Arjun waved it away, turning to me with accusation. "The startup's drowning in debt because of you—always pushing me to quit the job, now look!" His words stung, but I saw the pain beneath. "No, Arjun, we'll support each other. I have savings; we'll pay it off." My loyalty burned—how could I leave him now?

Vikram's hand brushed my shoulder as he leaned in, "consoling" me. "He's stressed, Pooja. Don't take it to heart." His touch lingered a beat too long, sending a shiver, but I focused on Arjun, ignoring it. Arjun glared at the contact, but I pulled Vikram's arm away gently. "Thank you for bringing me." Arjun's blame escalated—"You never understood the pressure!"—yet I held his hand. "I love you unconditionally. We'll get through this." Vikram nodded, his eyes on me, soft but intense. "If debt's the issue, I can help. Friends are for that." He pulled out his phone, transferring 5 lakhs instantly. "For Pooja's sake, not yours, Arjun—you waste time drinking." His words hung, indirect but pointed, but I saw only kindness. Arjun's face darkened, but I hugged him. "See? We're not alone."

Arjun's POV The faint lifted like fog, Pooja's face the first thing I saw—her worry twisting my gut. I had to push harder, make her hate me before the truth bound her forever. Pretending drunk, I slurred, "Pooja, you... you ruined everything." Her eyes widened, but she cradled me, unconditional as always. Vikram stood there, his gaze raking over her, and I couldn't miss it—the hunger from years ago. On the porch, sea wind whipping, I blamed her for the startup debt, acting sloppy. "If you hadn't nagged me to start this, we'd be fine!" Lies, all to spark hatred, but her hand in mine felt like chains. Vikram's arm on her shoulder—too close—ignited my rage, but I played it cool, eyes locked on his wandering hand.

She defended me, "We'll fix it," her love a wall I couldn't breach. Vikram's eyes lingered on her curves, perverse glint hidden behind concern. He "accidentally" brushed her waist handing water, and I seethed, but stayed silent—part of the plan. "Debt's killing me," I groaned, blaming her "distractions." She vowed support, tears in her eyes. Vikram seized it, phone out. "I'll send 5 lakhs—for Pooja's sake, not you, the drunk fool." His indirect jab at me, eyes devouring her, confirmed it—he was circling. Not this soon, but destiny's cruel joke. Jealousy burned, but relief flickered; he'd take her when I was gone. Her hug choked me—I had to make her despise this life with me.

Vikram's POV Pooja's panic was raw as we found Arjun fainted on the bed. I hung back, letting her rush to him, my eyes tracing her frantic form—the way her chudidhar hugged her hips. Focus, I told myself, but the old hunger stirred. On the porch, sea salt thick in the air, I watched Arjun slur blame at her—"Debt's your fault, Pooja!"—his "drunk" act obvious, but she clung to him, loyal to a fault. Perfect opening. I leaned in, hand on her shoulder, feeling her warmth. "He's lashing out from stress," I murmured, thumb grazing her skin a second too long, the touch electric. Her shiver? Fear or something else? Perverse thoughts crept—imagining pulling her closer—but I shoved them down, disgusted yet thrilled.

She brushed my hand off gently, focused on him, but I caught Arjun's glare—he saw everything. Good. "If debt's the problem," I said, pulling out my phone, "I'll help. 5 lakhs, sent now—for Pooja's sake, not you wasting time drinking, Arjun." My words sliced indirect, eyes locking on hers, willing her to see me as savior. She smiled gratefully, her curves shifting as she hugged him—god, the view. I "accidentally" bumped her arm handing a cloth, savoring the contact, body reacting despite the shame. Why her, why now? But Arjun's act cracked their bond; she'd turn to me soon. As she vowed support, I nodded, hand hovering near her waist—consoling, always consoling—my perverse nature whispering to seize the moment.
The sea crashed below as Arjun's blame echoed, Pooja's tears glistening. I stepped closer, arm around her shoulders "for comfort," feeling her tremble. Arjun's eyes burned into me—he knew. But her unconditional love for him was cracking; my money, my "kindness," would pull her my side. The night deepened, dynamics shifting like tides—her loyalty tested, his hatred brewing, my desire veiled in help.

Chapter 4 - Arjun turmoil deepens while Vikram's exhibits his care

The tension at the Mahabalipuram guesthouse hung thick as the sea calmed into dawn. After Arjun's faint and the heated exchange, Pooja stepped forward, her voice steady despite the night's strain. "Let's ease this, please. The debt's written off now with Vikram's help—let's go home." Her eyes softened on Arjun, still slumped and feigning drunkenness. Vikram nodded, assessing her. "Do you know how to drive, Pooja?" She nodded. "Yes, I can." He handed her his car keys. "Take it. I'll follow you—he's in no state. Get him home safe." Pooja agreed, guiding Arjun to the passenger seat, her resolve unshaken by his silence.

The car rolled toward Chennai, Pooja's hands firm on the wheel, Arjun mute beside her, his mind churning. He stared out the window, devising plans to distance himself—1. A fake call from a debt collector to trigger a breakdown, pushing her to Vikram; 2. Another call to force the same; 3. Lashing out at her before staff, blaming her interference; 4. Destroying a wedding photo to provoke her. But doubt crept in. None will work, he thought. Pooja's too smart—she'll see through my act. She knows this isn't me. If I try these, she'll cling harder, trying to fix me, not leave. He needed a plan where she'd move away organically, without his retreat. The road stretched, his mind racing for that elusive strategy.

Vikram trailed behind in his own car, his route diverging slightly but always realigning, watching Pooja's careful driving. Arjun noticed the lights flashing in the mirror—Vikram's presence a shadow. As they neared their Chennai home, Arjun muttered, "I'll park inside. Send him off." Pooja stepped out, leading Vikram away, her figure a silhouette against the dawn. Arjun parked, the engine's hum fading, and entered the house, expecting her to follow. Minutes passed—too long. Worry gnawed; at his state, she should've rushed in. He crept back outside, peering into the dim light.
There, Vikram stood close, his voice low as he cracked a joke that drew a soft, genuine laugh from Pooja, the sound cutting through the morning stillness like a fragile melody. Her face, etched with exhaustion yet brightened by gratitude, turned to him as she said, "Vikram, thank you for helping us—truly." Vikram's hand rested on her shoulder, his fingers lingering with a warmth that seemed both comforting and possessive, his smile widening as he replied, "My pleasure to help friends," his tone smooth, his eyes glinting with an undercurrent of intent that Arjun couldn't ignore. The dawn light caught the edges of Vikram's car as he finally drove off, the taillights fading into the distance, leaving Pooja at the gate, her silhouette framed by the soft glow of their home. Arjun watched, his breath shallow, a realization sinking deep—Vikram could be the key. If he draws her in with his kindness, his money, his subtle advances, she might step away organically. But how will she hate me? Guilt will bind her unless I give her a reason to let go without remorse. His mind shifted, rejecting Vikram as the sole trigger. He needed another plan, one untainted by Vikram's shadow, to make her despise him enough to ease into another life. Perhaps a confession of a fabricated betrayal—claiming a past affair, a lie so vile it would shatter her trust, leaving her free to move on without the weight of his illness. Or maybe a public disgrace, accusing her of sabotaging his startup with forged evidence, turning her love to loathing. Yes, he thought, something that paints me as the villain she must escape, not a martyr she'll mourn. The idea took root, dark and deliberate, as he turned back inside, the house silent but for the echo of his plotting, convinced that Vikram's presence might nudge her away, but only his own crafted hatred could set her free to love again.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 5: Vikram's confession shocked Pooja

The morning sun filtered through the startup office windows as Arjun returned to his desk, the weight of his diagnosis pressing harder with each labored breath. His phone buzzed—Pooja's voice, soft but laced with concern. "Arjun, how are you? Are you okay at work?" He forced a grunt, "Fine, just busy," masking the tremor in his hands and the panic gnawing at him since his latest doctor's visit. The physician had been stern: "Your condition's worsening—stage three now. Six months, maybe less, unless you stop everything. Act fast." The warning echoed, fueling his paranoia. He had to accelerate his plan to push Pooja away before his body betrayed him completely.

The day dragged until evening, around 5 PM, when a familiar Thar Jeep rolled up outside. Through the window, Arjun watched Vikram drop Pooja off, a new routine since he'd started chauffeuring her home from the office each evening, while Arjun handled the morning commute. Today, though, Vikram lingered, stepping out with her, their figures moving toward the entrance. Arjun's pulse raced—every glance from Vikram stoked his urgency. Pooja burst into the office, her face lighting up. "Surprise!" she exclaimed, rushing to Arjun. He feigned shock. "How did you get here?" She smiled, glancing at Vikram. "Vikram dropped me. I was worried about you and thought this might lift your mood." Arjun nodded, his mind a storm of paranoia, agreeing only to keep her close for now. From that day, Vikram's evening drops became routine, his presence a constant threat.

One afternoon, Arjun's health betrayed him; a searing pain and dizziness forced him to leave early. At the doctor's, the news hit harder: "Your lungs are failing faster—quit work, rest, or you won't see spring." Paranoia gripped him—time was slipping. Driven by desperation, he drove to Pooja's company, parking shakily and taking the lift, his body protesting each movement. At her office, he found her desk empty. A mutual friend shrugged. "She's on the rooftop with Vikram." A wave of dread crashed over him, his plan's urgency intensifying, and he avoided the lift, climbing the stairs slowly, each step a battle against his failing strength.

Reaching the rooftop, he peered around the corner—there they were, alone. Pooja sat with her head down, worry etched on her face, while Vikram stood close, his eyes fixed on her cleavage, missing nothing. Arjun's blood boiled, paranoia whispering that Vikram was closing in, but he stayed hidden, watching for five agonizing minutes. Vikram leaned in, his hand brushing her arm, then lingering near her shoulder, a smirk playing as he adjusted to steal another glance. He offered a tissue, fingers grazing her hand, his intent a dagger to Arjun's resolve. His health warning screamed in his mind—act now. Yet, he wanted Vikram to push further, a pawn in his frantic scheme.

Then Vikram consoled her, their hands meeting briefly, hers trembling as she accepted comfort. Arjun stepped forward, forcing a smile through his paranoia. "Surprise!" he said, watching their hands part softly. Vikram chuckled playfully, "Looks like we beat you to it." Arjun's voice turned cold, driven by his medical deadline. "One time you can do this—will you drop her daily?" Vikram's eyes gleamed. "Why not? I'd be glad to." Arjun nodded, the first step taken, his mind racing with the doctor's warning. From that day, Vikram drove Pooja home every evening, his car a relentless shadow, while Arjun, paranoid and weakening, plotted her drift, each breath a reminder of his shrinking time.

As the days settled into this new rhythm, Arjun began recording every detail with a meticulous, almost obsessive eye. Each evening, he noted Vikram's arrival—the Thar Jeep's rumble, Vikram's crisp shirts shifting to casual tees, his easy smile as he handed Pooja her bag. Pooja's dresses caught his gaze too—her blue kurta one day, a green saree the next, the fabric swaying as she stepped out, her smile warm yet tired. He tracked their touches: Vikram's hand guiding her elbow, lingering a second too long, Pooja's polite pat in return. Their laughter over small jokes—Vikram teasing about traffic, Pooja giggling—etched into his memory like a ledger of betrayal. Arjun scribbled these in a notebook, his paranoia growing with each entry, convinced the routine was normalizing Vikram's encroachment.

Driven by his deteriorating health and the doctor's dire warning, Arjun planned a step ahead. He reasoned that meeting clients someday would keep him late, giving Vikram a chance to drop Pooja at their empty house. If they're alone, his advances might deepen her distance from me, he thought, the idea stoking his paranoia. He envisioned Vikram consoling her in the quiet living room, hands brushing as he poured tea, eyes lingering on her form. Arjun would stay away, letting the loneliness of the house fuel her drift. Not my retreat, but her choice, he mused, the plan a dark thread weaving through his fading strength, each breath a countdown to her organic hate.

One such evening, Arjun's paranoia surged, tempting him to see what they might be doing. I'm not a voyeur or cuckold, he told himself, just checking if she's advancing. His heart pounded heavily as he stepped into the house, each creak of the floor amplifying his dread. They weren't in the hall—Are they lovemaking in bed? Panic seized him, and he rushed to the bedroom, only to find it empty. Relief mixed with frustration as he retraced his steps, spotting them in the kitchen. Vikram stood too close behind Pooja, chatting softly, his breath near her neck. Arjun announced, "I've arrived," and Vikram slowly stepped back, unaffected, while Pooja turned, unfazed. "Arjun, you know what? Vikram's new house is getting renovated, it seems. He's looking out for a room. He offers to pick me up and drop me here if he can get houses nearby. What do you say? Do you know anyone?" Vikram interjected, "I didn't ask for a house on this street, just if I could stay here for a few days. She has no heart!" Arjun smiled inside, seizing the moment. "Vikram, you helped us a lot—stay here, that's my order." Pooja's eyes rolled up, even Vikram's, but Arjun pressed on, his voice laced with double meaning. "You instantly gave me 5 lakhs for Pooja; I'm giving you a space for Pooja as well—a double weight word." Vikram bought it, a thrill sparking in his eyes, deciding to up his game. Pooja, confused but happy her friend could stay, nodded. Arjun, though, wasn't sure what Vikram was thinking, his paranoia deepening.

The next day, Vikram arrived with luggage and his Thar car, the big home now accommodating him on the ground floor. Another week passed, Arjun acting busy with work, his health a silent decline he hid behind late meetings. Each evening, he returned to find Vikram and Pooja settling into an unsettling normalcy—her laughter at his jokes, his casual touches growing bolder. One night, Arjun stepped into the dimly lit living room, expecting them in the kitchen, but froze. Vikram sat on the couch, Pooja beside him, her saree slipped slightly to reveal her shoulder, unaware of the exposure. Vikram's hand rested near her thigh, fingers tracing the fabric's edge, his eyes locked on her with a hungry intensity she didn't notice. Arjun's breath caught—hot, out of line, yet not crossing into intimacy—his paranoia flaring as Vikram slowly upped his game, testing boundaries Pooja remained oblivious to. Arjun retreated silently, his plan's dark thread tightening, convinced Vikram's proximity would soon force her drift, his own health a ticking clock.

As Arjun lingered in the shadows, Vikram's voice broke the silence, soft yet charged. "Pooja, I need to make a confession.

Pooja asked what,

Vikram said you know what i was planing to prpose you the day Arjun proposed you, i dont know how t hat happend, i saw himi giving you flowers i hid my feelings.

Yes i loved you,"

Pooja's eyes widened, shock freezing her in place, her mind reeling with confusion. Vikram continued, his voice trembling, "I don't want to carry this weight. So openly said this to you nothing in my hear.

If you want me to go, I'll leave now." A single tear slid down his cheek, his vulnerability laid bare. Pooja, touched by his confession, reached out instinctively. "I'm sorry, Vikram. Past is past dont bring it now, why the hell you said this now, i thought you are my good friend, now i get a idea that all your good for me is for the love.

Vikram without hiding said yes i did for all for my love, i know yo uare married, i know my boundary, but let me do something for your happiness, my love is seeing you happy.

Shocked by the revleatins, she said im married Vikram, okay you still love me and want me to recirpocate

Vikram said no: I just want our realationship to be pure and no hidden secrets, no guilts no drama, i saw its growing so want to come clean with you

Pooja sort of felt relieved, she soften, looked aroun

I'll be your good friend," she said, her voice gentle.

Vikram quickly masked his pain with a jolly laugh. "I'm sorry, my mistake!" he exclaimed, but Pooja, feeling a pang of sympathy, hugged him tightly. "Please, you need to let this go. My heart is only for Arjun," she whispered, pulling back.

Vikram's smile faltered, then softened. "I know. I'm jealous of him—I can't see him suffer, and if he does, you will too. That's why I gave the money." Pooja, overwhelmed, rose from her seat.

"Maybe we should stop here. Speaking more might toll our friendship," she said firmly, turning toward the stairs, unsettled and shaken.
Arjun, hidden just beyond the doorway, watched the exchange unfold, his heart pounding with a mix of triumph and dread. As Pooja climbed upstairs, she said nothing to him, her silence heavy with turmoil. He slipped back to their room, his mind racing—This is enough. She's shaking, questioning. Vikram's love could be the push, but her loyalty holds. His paranoia surged, his health's decline urging him faster, yet he knew her love might still cling unless he crafted a deeper hate.


Chapter 6: Pooja's loyalty brings back Old Arjun

The morning light crept through the curtains as Pooja dialed Vikram, her voice steady but firm. "Vikram, I'll be going to the temple with Aravind today. He'll drop me at the office afterward." A pause hung heavy before Vikram responded, his tone masking disappointment. He realized Pooja was distancing herself, their regular morning drives abruptly severed. 

Arjun, overhearing from the kitchen, frowned—When did she mention a temple program?—yet he played along, masking his confusion with a nod. The shift unsettled him, but he buried it, his paranoia simmering beneath the surface.

At the temple, Pooja moved silently, her prayers a whisper against the chants. Arjun, noticing her unease, asked gently, "What happened?" She hesitated, then met his gaze. "Arjun, do you know what Vikram said last night? He loves me, it seems." Arjun feigned a shock, eyes widening. "What?" Pooja recounted the scene—the flowers, the tear, Vikram's confession—and her conflicted response. "What should I do? Cut him off or continue friendship? Will that be okay for me?" Her loyalty shone through, a beacon that stirred something deep in Arjun. It brought back the old him—the man who cherished her trust. For one day, he decided to shed his façade, to act as her true soul, not a schemer. "Pooja, it's your choice," he said honestly. "Staying away is best, but cutting him off might be worse.

Maybe we play soft—slowly distance him, especially when he returns to his place." Pooja listened, then challenged, "Where was your care these weeks? You barely looked at me. I feared you'd push me to continue friendship." Arjun smiled, a rare warmth returning. "No, I won't. Maybe I hid something, but you never did. Today's scenario proves it—how can I fail you?" Pooja gripped his hand tightly, her trust rekindled.

On the way back, Arjun offered, "I'll drop you at the office. Should I pick you up, or...?" Pooja smiled. "However you want." He nodded. "I trust you—come with him if you must." She leaned in, kissing his cheek. "I know you... don't hide this love from me anymore." 

She stepped out at her company, and Arjun drove off, a flicker of his old self guiding him. At the office, Pooja quietly avoided Vikram, her mind still reeling. Vikram, sensing the shift, picked her up that evening, but she plugged in her earphones, pretending to listen to music, distancing herself further.

After dinner, Vikram broke the silence. "Arjun, a friend of mine is vacating his place—it's empty until his sister returns. I planned to stay there for a few weeks." He avoided their eyes, his voice low. Arjun felt a pang of guilt, while Pooja wrestled with her restrictions post-confession. As they exchanged a glance, Vikram added, "I'll come back in a few days." After dinner, he gathered his luggage, the Thar Jeep's engine fading into the night.

 Alone, Pooja and Arjun discussed it. She felt guilty for breaking Vikram further. Arjun, channeling his old self, consoled her. "The wound will fade slowly—give it time." His words eased her, but by midnight, a headache struck Arjun hard. He struggled, then fainted, collapsing on the floor.

In the morning, Pooja, exhausted, accused playfully, "You slept like a donkey!" Arjun awoke, realizing he'd pushed away Vikram—the golden goose, his perfect choice to ease Pooja's drift. Yet, his paranoia lingered after witnessing Vikram's advances, his heart aching for tricking her. 

He drove her to work, dropping her off with a forced smile. At the office, Pooja resolved to address Vikram, but a call from Arjun's office interrupted— a financier was threatening him over a 2-lakh debt. Panicked, she rushed out, Vikram following despite her reluctance. At the office rooftop, the financier demanded payment. Without hesitation, Vikram stepped forward, transferring the sum. "Leave them alone," he said firmly, then walked away, telling Pooja, "Take care of Arjun." She stood stunned, muttering, "I feel terrible taking his help again, hurting him. Why does he do this?" Arjun, taking a deep breath, reassured her, "Don't worry—he's given us 7 lakhs total. I'll repay this week." Pooja asked, "How?" He smiled, newfound confidence rising. "Wait and watch. I've decided to shield you properly—I can't leave you like this."


Now Arjun trying to act like old selft, is Vikram out of the game now?

Chapter 7: Vikram back into Arjun House: Pooja eases with Vikram 

The night deepened over , as Vikram sat in his hotel room, the silence a bitter companion. He'd lent 2 lakhs to save Arjun from the financier, expecting a call from Pooja to bring him back, especially with his 7 lakhs total investment. But the phone stayed mute, his pride stung. Returning uninvited to their home would expose his intent and shame him; his predator instincts demanded a subtler approach. Emotionally wounded yet resolute, he crafted a plan—to re-enter their lives with calculated vulnerability, turning his game toward love.

The next morning, Vikram arrived at the IT office where he and Pooja worked, timing his entrance as she stepped into the corridor. Casually, he let his hotel room keys slip from his pocket, landing near her feet.

Pooja picked them up, her brow furrowing. "What's this?" she asked, leading him to the rooftop for privacy.

Pooja: So why did you stay in hotel, so all that friends room are lie right? why did you lied to me

Vikram's expression softened, a rehearsed vulnerability in his eyes.

"I still love you, Pooja. I know it's hard to move on after what I said. If you or your husband know, it'll be tough for you. So, I decided to move out decently—the friend's room was a lie. But now, I made a friend, a receptionist." He forced a weak joke, but Pooja didn't laugh. "I'll laugh later," she said dryly, pulling out her phone.

She texted Arjun: Situation with Vikram—he lied about the friend's room. Don't feel bad, I decided to bring him back, that idiot. Arjun, at his startup, read it and replied: I support you whatever you do.

Pooja smiled at her phone, then turned to Vikram. "Come with me, or I'll kill you."

Vikram: Are you sure?!

Pooja: If you respect my friendship come with me..

"Yes, ma'am," he said, masking his triumph as he followed her back inside.

After dinner, Pooja and Arjun lay in bed, the night quiet. Arjun hesitated, then murmured, "People say Vikram's a womanizer..."

Pooja sat up, eyes narrowing. "What now? If you feel bad, you should've said this earlier, before i get him back to this house. Now blaming him, that too a womanizer?" Arjun backtracked, laughing nervously. "No, no, no, I'm completely fine with him staying here. I'm okay even if he makes love to you." Pooja's eyebrow shot up. "What? Nonsense." "I mean, telling love to you," he corrected, chuckling. She rolled her eyes. "Both men are stupid at jokes." He grinned. "I used to hear that way, but not once I saw him give any hint to you." Pooja thought aloud, "Yes, I heard it, but he never misbehaved with me." Arjun nodded. "Maybe that's what love is—he waits for your permission to move ahead." Pooja mocked, "So if I say yes, are you okay with him doing me?" They laughed, a bedroom jest, but the phrase "if that's what love is" lodged in her mind. She asked, "You had sex with me before marriage—so is that not love?" Arjun laughed again. "To be frank, I felt huge competition, so I decided to push more before marrying." A pillow fight broke out, their laughter fading as they slept, unaware of Vikram listening outside, every word fueling his resolve.

Vikram, pressed against the door, felt a surge of determination. No matter what, I want Pooja in heart or bed. His return was a predator's game, now cloaked in love. The 7 lakhs, the hotel keys, the rooftop lie—all steps to stay close, exploiting Arjun's hesitance and Pooja's guilt. Hearing Arjun's approval and Pooja's doubt, he plotted his next move, ready to manipulate her emotions while Arjun's silence paved the way.

Weeks passed, Vikram settling into a routine. He resumed picking Pooja up from the office and dropping her at home, their lone time in the car a quiet battlefield. Pooja, now noticing Arjun's distance again—his cold shrugs, withheld glances—grew restless. Arjun had shifted back almost imperceptibly at first, his paranoia and the doctor's grim prognosis pulling him into a shell of self-preservation. He started staying late at the startup, pitching new clients to secure the 7 lakhs owed to Vikram, framing it as a way to shield Pooja from further guilt. "Wait and watch," he'd told her after the financier incident, but the words now felt hollow, his actions speaking louder. One evening, as a potential investor meeting ran long, Arjun called Pooja from his office. "I'll be late again—ask Vikram to pick you up and take you for shopping if you need anything. He's reliable." Pooja agreed, surprised but grateful, unaware of the calculated step Arjun took to normalize Vikram's role in her life. His calls reduced to quick check-ins—"Home safe?"—leaving her evenings filled with Vikram's casual chats and the occasional stop at a mall, where he'd insist on carrying her bags, his presence a subtle constant.

Arjun's business efforts consumed him, a desperate bid to reclaim control amid his fading health. He secured a 3-lakh deal with a small tech firm after weeks of tense negotiations, the client's hesitation dragging meetings into the night. "This covers part of the debt," he told himself, the tension of frequent client calls and late-night emails making him delay returns home. By the time he arrived, exhaustion claimed him; he'd collapse into bed unusually early, reducing their time together to fragmented moments. He feared slipping—revealing his diagnosis or the depth of his plan—so he avoided deep conversations, offering only curt nods or distracted smiles. Pooja interpreted this as emotional and physical distance, her questions met with "I'm tired" or "Work's crazy," the void growing between them like an unspoken chasm. She'd lie awake, wondering if his coldness was the startup's toll or something deeper, her loyalty straining under the weight.

Desperate to treat his unraveling mind, Arjun secretly consulted a psychologist, who arranged sessions with a counselor named Anjali, a woman whose calm voice offered much-needed motivation. "Focus on positive steps amid the storm," she advised over calls, ideas to lead his life with purpose despite the illness. Arjun saved her number as "Client Friend," dialing her frequently for guidance on managing his paranoia and guilt. Pooja noticed the recent calls once, the unfamiliar number flashing on his screen, but she trusted Arjun implicitly, dismissing it as business. One afternoon, she overheard a woman's voice from the phone—Anjali's soothing tone discussing "coping strategies"—but Pooja didn't pry, her faith in him a quiet anchor. Unbeknownst to her, these calls were Arjun's lifeline, helping him balance his protection vow with the natural drift he orchestrated, even as Vikram's shadow loomed larger in their home.

One night, as Arjun hit the bed early, Vikram and Pooja sat on the couch after dinner, curiosity got the better of her.

"People call you a womanizer, but you never once approached me that way," she said, her tone probing. Vikram's eyes softened, a manipulator's charm at play.

"How could I hurt a woman I love? Any man touching other women is sex. With a soulmate, it's lovemaking. I wished lovemaking with you." He gently took her hand, his touch lingering. "This touch is enough," he said, his gaze piercing hers. "That's love to explore."

He continued, "People have sex before marriage these days, cheat partners—it all happens. But one true in love never demands that. They crave attention, chats, time to spend. In that case, I'm already fulfilled, i spend time with you, chat, gets your attention, in my world all these are like im already making love to you. And you're cheating your husband." He laughed, but Pooja was taken aback. "I'm serious," she insisted.

"These days, Arjun isn't giving any attention. He's leaving me all alone..." Their eyes met, a charged silence hanging. Vikram asked, "What should I do?" Pooja shook her head. "Don't do anything. I just need someone to blabber things." Vikram embraced her in his arms, and she murmured, "I didn't like when you touch me, but I have no place other than this to shed my tears." Vikram held her gently. "Let's analyze him and find a solution. Your happiness is mine." Arjun, hidden in the shadows, overheard it all, his heart sinking. He retreated to his room, his conflict—protection versus drift—deepening with each step.

[heygiwriter]

Summary of Events So Far (Short Version)


Chapter 1 & 2: Arjun learns he has about a year to live due to a serious diagnosis. To spare Pooja from lifelong grief, he decides to push her away from their marriage, believing her hate or a natural drift would let her find happiness after his death. These chapters delve into his paranoid thoughts and their shared memories, setting the stage for his self-sacrificial plan.

Chapter 3, 4, & 5: Vikram, a charismatic figure with money and fame who once courted Pooja, enters their lives uninvited, becoming a "golden goose" for Arjun. Arjun sees Vikram as a natural choice to ensure Pooja's future, gradually integrating him into their home. These chapters focus on Vikram's growing presence and Arjun's deliberate efforts to make him a part of their life.

Chapter 6: Pooja's unwavering loyalty to Arjun prompts him to reclaim his role as her protector, abandoning his plan to push her away. After Vikram's open confession of love, Pooja chooses to distance herself from him. Arjun shifts to letting events take their natural course, committing to protect her rather than orchestrate a split.


Chapter 7: Vikram takes the lead in the game, using calculated manipulation to re-enter their lives (via the hotel keys incident at the IT office) and exploit Arjun's hesitance and Pooja's growing loneliness. Arjun's distance (late nights, reduced calls, secret counseling with Anjali) and Vikram's emotional play (couch confession, embrace) set the stage for Vikram's dominance, with Arjun's conflict deepening as he overhears their interaction.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 8 - Vikram Planting a subtle doubt of cheating.

Continuation: 

As Pooja rose from the couch ready to retreat to the bedroom, Vikram's voice stopped her, laced with calculated gentleness. "What if Arjun is hiding something?" His tone was genuine, though his motives ran deeper. Pooja paused, turning back. "What?" she asked, curiosity piqued. Vikram gestured for her to sit, his eyes softening with rehearsed concern. "What if he's hiding something—a reason why he's staying away? Maybe depression, inner conflicts, or secrets that could hurt you... even if it's not what you think." He paused, hinting subtly at betrayal, then pivoted. "Or perhaps business pressures—he's been distant  right? Let's not jump to conclusions." Pooja frowned, shaking her head. "Don't you think I don't notice? It's just that he always comes late and sleeps immediately after dinner. Mornings, he wakes up late and rushes to the office. The bare minimum attention he's not giving—he's leaving me lonely." Vikram leaned in, voice low. "Speak with him. Maybe he feels he'd break if he opens up, so he fakes sleep or something..." Pooja thought for a moment, then nodded. "Thanks." They exchanged good-night wishes and retired to their rooms.

In the bedroom, Pooja entered to find Arjun lying silently, seemingly asleep. She lay facing him, whispering, "I know you're not sleeping." Arjun opened his eyes, startled. "How did you know?" Pooja's voice trembled. "Just now, I was complaining to Vikram that you're drifting away again, making me lonely." Arjun's eyes widened. "When did you start sharing your issues with Vikram?" Pooja's tears fell. "Don't I need a friend to share issues? I consider Vikram as one." Arjun sighed. "Having a friend to lean on is fine, but you can treat your husband as a friend too." Pooja's tone sharpened. "Jealousy creeping in, right? Fine, get up—I need to seriously talk about this. What's troubling you, Arjun, tell me." They sat up on the bed, tension thick. He forced a smile. "Just business." Pooja doubted him. "Ever since the day you fainted, you've acted strangely, always leaving me alone. Thankfully, Vikram's confession hit my husbands sense and it got my Arjun back, and now again I'm sharing personal stuff with Vikram. Your jelously creeps in you tell me to treat you as a friend first. 

Glad Vikram was here—I got your attention at least by making you jealous." 

Vikram, lingering near the door, overheard and Arjun asked, "What were you guys speaking?" Pooja, shy but honest, recounted it all. "I asked about the womanizer rumors, and he said, 'How could I hurt a woman I love? Any man touching other women is sex. With a soulmate, it's lovemaking. I wished lovemaking with you.' He took my hand, said the touch is enough, that's love to explore. He even said, 'In that case, I'm already fulfilled, I spend time with you, chat, get your attention—in my world, all these are like I'm already making love to you. And you're cheating your husband.'" Vikram chuckled. "Okay, in his world, you're a cheating wife." They laughed again, and Pooja felt a flicker of happiness—Vikram's role had rekindled her connection with Arjun. "You know my limits; I treat him as a good friend, that's all," she said. Arjun nodded. "I'm not jealous. I'm glad you have a friend. Stay tight—I believe once my issues are sorted, I'll be back." Pooja tried to make love, but Arjun pulled away. "I'm too occupied in head," he murmured, though his pain flared the moment she undressed. Though pooja was hurt, she let that pass for the love.

A week passed, Arjun's absences mounting—client meets dragging into nights, His irregular office visits left Pooja's calls unanswered, his returns delayed by exhaustion. He collapsed into bed early, avoiding talk, fearing a slip about his diagnosis. Pooja saw it as distance, her loyalty straining as things keep repeating again and again

The next day

Pooja asked Arjun to accompany her shopping for a distant relative's marriage. He declined, voice strained. "I cant, important work, if you want some one to accompany, ask if Vikram can." Vikram took leave, and Pooja did too. The shopping trip was a headache—crowded stores, heavy bags. At a jewelry shop, Pooja tried on gold jhumkas and necklaces, dialing Arjun. to ask "What do you think of these jhumkas?"  , but the phone rang unanswered. She texted a photo, no reply. At a clothing store, she browsed silk red sarees and salwar kameez, texting, "This shirt —size 38 fit?" Silence. Vikram helped with bags, his presence a comfort amid her worry. Vikram made all desicions in place of Arjun as he was unreachable. He even picked her some outfits for Pooja. Pooja cant miss vikram admiration on her, and her appearance. 

Meanwhile, Arjun's pain returned, sharper, forcing him to the ER at a nearby hospital. Doctors confirmed deterioration, prescribing stronger medication. Ignoring Pooja's calls, he lay in the waiting area. Emerging, he checked WhatsApp—Vikram's status showed selfies: Pooja at the jewelry counter, laughing in the clothing store, her arm linked with his. 

The shop near his startup, Pooja and Vikram went there, she was shocked to found Arjun was not there, further the manager saying, "Arjun sir's out for a client meet. For two weeks, he's been irregular." Worry gripped her. She was sure something was off really off for recently.
On the way back, Pooja, in the car, was definite Arjun hid something, recalling the woman's voice from "Client Friend" calls. Vikram said, "You're overthinking," but she insisted, "No, I know Arjun—he's not this distant. Not picking calls, not at the office, hiding something..." Vikram's earlier hint—secrets that could hurt—echoed, planting a subtle doubt of cheating.  Vikram said you are overthing, it cant, who will have a heart to betray you. Tear flowing down from pooja eyes, as vikram drove their car stuck in traffic. Opposite lane, Arjun spotted them—Pooja crying, tears streaming, Vikram's finger caressing her face, wiping them with tender care. The sight twisted in his gut, but his plan held—Let her be happy.   The green signal blared dramatically, horns erupting in a chaotic symphony, the light flashing like a spotlight on their intimacy. Arjun's car slowed, world blurring as vehicles surged, forcing him to accelerate. In the rear mirror, the signal turned green; Pooja and Vikram drove past, figures receding like a fading mirage. He drove alone forward, pain in his chest mirroring his heart, Vikram's wipe of her tears a stark reminder of the drift.

Chapter 9 - Arjun's lie exposed making pooja to seeks Vikram help and lonetime

While driving back to home, Vikram sensed Arjun was hiding something—something profound, perhaps some secrets—but the thought thrilled him deeper, a thank-you to fate for handing him this chance to exploit Pooja's growing loneliness. If luck held, he could claim her heart or bed, either way a victory. Yet, he was torn, morality gnawing at him; his crush and love for Pooja blinded him, worsened by the sexual attraction that surged whenever she was near. Still, he'd defend Arjun to her, ensuring he didn't appear a villain—whatever Arjun did had a "good reason." But subtly, he'd hint at cheating, letting Pooja's doubt fester.

The Evening, after reaching the home, Vikram said "Stay calm, You are just overthinking, be good to him, and grab that number you doubt—I'll spy on it for you. If it's nothing, great; if not, you deserve truth." Pooja nodded, her suspicion from the woman's voice lingering. That night, after dinner, Pooja pulled Arjun aside. "I need time to speak," she said firmly. "Where have you been? Why no calls?" Arjun sighed. "I was busy!" She led him to bed. "Go for bed; I have to speak." Later, as they lay down, before Pooja started, Arjun preempted, "Sorry, I was really busy finding someone to close the debts." Pooja's mind relaxed—Okay, he navigated away for this. My bad, I doubted it. Glad Vikram was right; I was overthinking. She smiled, tension easing.

Arjun, sensing the moment, shifted the mood. "There's a game my client was playing with his wife today—the answers amazed me. Wanted to try on you." Pooja raised an eyebrow. "What?" He asked, "Do you love me?" She laughed. "What question is this?" Then, "What will you do if I die before you?" She paused, voice soft. "I will die along with you." Arjun shook his head. "Dishonest answer." Pooja asked, "What will you do?" Arjun replied, "I will move on with my life, but carry your memories." Pooja frowned. "Tell me what the answer has to do with the game." Arjun said, "It's just a test of how attached. You're too attached to me—that's why you're always troubled." Arjun lied—there was no game, no client; he wanted to gauge what Pooja would do if he were gone. Her answer confirmed it: she'd end her life. Shit, 26 and she has a long way to go—why stick to me? He added, "I actually forgot; there was too much logical reasoning, but let me take you there one day. Ask them directly." He confused the scenario and said good night. Pooja now doubted something—she felt Arjun diverted the topic, sleeping emotionally. Slowly, she grabbed his mobile, checked photos—nothing much—and saved the "Client Friend" number, texting Vikram at midnight: Spy on this number? She slept.

Vikram, who had overheard their talks from outside, went back to his room, recounting every word. He was sure again Arjun hid something. He knows I love her, knows I spoke out of range, yet he allows me to tag along with Pooja. He's still maintaining distance with her—something is off. Which idiot will turn off a women who was about to make love. Something really off. Vikram decided to up his manipulation game further after spying on the phone number.

The next day, Vikram tracked it down—it belonged to psychologist Anjali. Is he getting consulted? What issue? She can't be a friend, so is it' related to health.

He met her in the noon, but Anjali denied details. "Arjun is my client on a health-related project." Vikram didn't buy it—the number belonging to a woman was enough to stir doubt in Pooja. At the IT office post-lunch, he showed Anjali's photo to Pooja. "Abruptly, she's the one." As an HR meeting came, they dispersed, Vikram leaving half-details to make her mind register Anjali and Arjun as a thing.

Back in the evening, Vikram said, "It's a client, it seems. Pakka—no need to worry. But yeah, they meet often... but these doesn't make you think Arjun is cheating? Plus, she's a psychologist—basically treating his depression." Stop defending your friend Vikram, Pooja didn't buy it, resolving to pursue the matter directly, but Vikram stopped her. "In a relation, biggest weapon one could get to hurt one is doubting. If you doubt him, it will hurt him more.

Just trust him—you hanging with me, does that mean we're cheating?" Pooja's sense returned; he held her hand and said, "You've got a nice life—stop being delusional and making it hard for all." Vikram slipped genuinely, causing his own manipulation to falter. While they drove back, Pooja said, "Let's go and meet Arjun." However, back in the morning, Arjun had visited the hospital, took a cab fearing he couldn't drive, and reached the guesthouse with the spare key, deciding to sleep till evening and get back at night.

When they reached the office, Pooja didn't find Arjun; she called, but he answered in a haze, "I'll be late—very busy in office." He hung up. She was shocked, tears out. Vikram asked, "What?" She said, "He lied—lied on my face. He says he's in office." Vikram thanked Arjun wholeheartedly, picked Pooja's hand, and started driving. When they reached home, Pooja said, "Let's go somewhere—I can't sit here." Vikram said, "Okay," and took her for a long drive, almost 40 km on ECR road. He remembered their guesthouse there and drove to it. On the way, Arjun called Pooja; Vikram asked her not to fight, just listen. She said hello; Arjun said, "Sorry da, still in office—will be back in 3 hours." Pooja said, "It's okay. I've also gone out for a birthday party—don't disturb for another 2 hours. Don't worry, I'm with Vikram and safe." She cut the call. Arjun, looking at the sky, the beach touchable distance a sight, decided to start. He turned all lights off in the guesthouse; when getting out, he forgot he opened the rooftop door wide. He shut it and ran to the top to close it, saw a light glowing, as Arjun stood on the rooftop, the sea breeze carrying the distant roar of waves. He had turned off the last glowing light, the door now shut tight, when a faint rumble broke his solitude. A Thar Jeep approached, its headlights slicing through the darkness. Who are they? His heart thudded, a mix of dread and disbelief. He grabbed the night binoculars from the ledge, hands trembling as he adjusted the focus. The vehicle slowed to a stop, and two figures emerged, their silhouettes stark against the jeep's glow. The binoculars sharpened the image, and a jolt of shock coursed through him—Pooja and Vikram. His breath caught, his mind reeling. "She said don't disturb me, birthday party—all lie? She started cheating?" The words echoed in his head, a panicked scream trapped in his chest.

His eyes narrowed, expecting betrayal, searching for proof. Pooja's face, usually soft with loyalty, was etched with tension, her lips pressed into a thin line—no smile, only the weight of her tears from earlier. But Vikram, ever the charmer, leaned close, whispering something—perhaps a joke to lift her mood. Arjun caught the faint tilt of Vikram's head, a grin breaking through as he said, "Come on, even the sea's jealous of your frown—smile for me!" Pooja's lips twitched, a reluctant curve forming, and Arjun's heart twisted. They walked hand in hand toward the guesthouse, Vikram's fingers laced with hers, a casual intimacy that stabbed at Arjun's core. The sight ignited a storm within him—rage at Vikram's audacity, despair at Pooja's vulnerability, and a gnawing guilt for orchestrating this drift. Did I push her too far? Is this my doing? His protection vow clashed with the cuckold role he'd silently accepted, torn between letting her go for her happiness and the primal urge to reclaim her.
Tears stung his eyes as he lowered the binoculars, the image burning into his soul—Pooja's hesitant smile, Vikram's triumphant stride. His legs weakened, the rooftop railing his only support. She's mine, but she's slipping... No, she's not cheating—she's lost, and I failed her. The pain in his chest flared, a sharp reminder of his fading health, mirroring the fracture in his heart. He sank to his knees, the binoculars slipping from his grasp, as the sound of their footsteps grew closer, each step a hammer on his resolve.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 10 - Vikram - Arjun's Wife Pooja at Guesthouse Rooftop

Arjun's heart pounded like a drum in the darkness of the rooftop, the sea's relentless crash below a mocking symphony to his turmoil. He had reached the rooftop entrance to the steps, peering down as the doors opened with a sharp crack.

Pooja's voice floated up, laced with surprise: "Oh my, we didn't lock the door—it's open, shit." Vikram's response was immediate: "What?" Pooja replied, "Yes." Vikram, his tone cautious, said, "Maybe someone broke in." He turned on the lights and scanned for signs of breaking, then asked Pooja to wait at the car, handing her the key as he scanned the entire ground floor and second floor, room by room. When he came to the rooftop, Arjun hid himself well behind a cluster of potted plants in the dark garden, his breath shallow. 

After finding no one, Vikram looked around and called Pooja up. Pooja asked, "Why are you so alarmed? It's just we forgot it." Vikram replied, "Precautions are fine—I can't risk you." Pooja looked at him meaningfully. 

Vikram asked, "Whose house is this, Pooja—yours or Arjun's?" Pooja said, "It's a guest house of his friends; they settled abroad. The keys are with us. 

Back in the days when I and Arjun were in love, we used to come here and spend time." She looked at the empty wall, and Vikram reminded her, "You guys still love." 

Pooja said, "Well, I believe so." Vikram said, "Come on, misunderstandings happen. You were silent all the way here; I thought I could lift your mood, but you're this off." 

Pooja said, "I just need silence for a few hours to get back to myself. That's why I preferred this spot—to refresh myself." "So what's the plan?" Vikram asked.

Pooja replied, "Nothing—let's go to the rooftop. 

That's the favorite place of us. Whenever I got mood off, Arjun used to bring me here; we'd get some food outside and eat up there, watching the sky. The garden up there, designed interiors, cushions, couple seaters—they are my refreshments. Let's go up," she said. Vikram stood up; he locked the door. Pooja asked with an eyebrow raising? Vikram replied, "The door was open for weeks; I wanted safety first." Pooja smiled, "You are unbelievable." Arjun, who was hearing their chatters, panicked as footsteps came closer, the stairs creaking under their weight. The panic arose; he quickly retreated to the garden backside, which was stark dark, the lights fused there weeks back.

Pooja showed the place. "This is my regular spot. I will sit in this cushion, Arjun will sit there. This table—sometimes I fall asleep. A lot of nights, this was our cage; we used to sleep seeing the moon." 

Vikram saw her with meaning, asking, "Where was this enthusiastic Pooja?" 

Pooja said, "She lost the moment my husband lied he was in office, when we were there at the office in the evening. He was up to something; you said he is meeting a woman psychologist, I fear it's not some depression treatment—I doubt more." 

Arjun shocked hearing this - how far does they know, why does this vikram reached my doctor, shit. 

Vikram said, "You are overthinking, Pooja. 

The doctor said Arjun is the client for their project and not patient or somenthing like affair, its just business; as I said earlier, doubt is a big weapon that could destroy a relationship." 

Pooja asked, "I don't know why you are defending Arjun this much., if there is nothing such why he need to lie, a simple im at client place is enough, definetly he is hiding something" 

Vikram said, see the reason im defeding him is "I just don't want you to worry" and  without knowing full truth, coming to a decision is bad. He sat on the table while she comfortably slid on the cushion, their views visible to Arjun, who was relaxed knowing pshycologist Anjali, did her best to hide things plus they were not here for cheating—she was just pissed at him. 

While Pooja now looked too deep into Vikram's eyes, she sadi, 

"Vikram, more than Arjun, I fear you."

 Vikram asked, "What?"

 Pooja said, "I fear you." 

Vikram asked, 

"Why so? What did I do—loving you?" 

Pooja said, "No, no, not love. I mean, you are too good to me—you accompany me in my toughs, you encourage me, you defend my marital relationship even when I was pissed off on something? If some people are too good to you, they might have a hidden agenda, my father used to say. 

You are now too good to me—that's why I fear."

 Vikram said, "I don't; I just follow my heart. 

Pooja said: At least Arjun was knowingly distancing himself from me—you better don't hide anything from me. If you have an intention, do say it." 

Pooja's instinct (basically women's instinct) still unconvinced, asked him straight, "See, let me ask on your face: you said you love me, my husband is sort of doing something behind my back, yet you, instead of taking the opportunity to split us apart, why do you defend him and try to patch up me with him? What game are you playing, Vikram?" The question was straight.

Vikram's expression turned earnest, his voice steady but laced with a vulnerability that masked his deeper calculations. 

"What you said is right, but if you come to me feeling loveless, maybe I will be different. 

But I can see you have full of love for Arjun—you came here not because he was cheating or something; it's because you could not digest a small hidden information from Arjun. You are too deep into him; maybe a random person can miss it, but I love you to the core—how could I miss what you want and what not." 

Pooja smiled, so you know me that deep?!. 

Vikram said, no but i have been seeing you for years, i watch you closely ever since i started falling for you, how could i not know your heart. 

It was you, suddenly felt offended the moment i opened the truth that i loved you.

Pooja said its okay, i dont know how to accept that, it was off kind of

Vikram, then asked, "What was your husband's reaction when he knows I loved you too?" Pooja shocked, "How do you know I said him?" 

Vikram said, "I know it —from the reaction of both of you. To be frank, these are reasons I confirmed multiple times you guys are an unbreakable match. You never hid anything to him."

Pooja smiled, vikram continued, even back in the office days when he was also working with us, i have done plenty of this but you guys are unshakable, he comes ahead of me.

Pooja surprised you did something to me for love?

Vikram said Yes, "You know those flowers on every weekend? It was me who placed on your table back when we were working." 

Pooja shocked, "What? Is that not Arjun's doing?" Vikram said, "No." 

Pooja said, "I thought it was him, not just that the chocolates in your bag mysteriously—it was me." Pooja said, "Shit, I thought all these were Arjun doing." Vikram nodded yes, "I was too shy to reach you then."

Pooja mocked, "You earned a name womanizer and you were shy to come to me?" Vikram said, "Yes, womanizer once, but ever since I fell for you, I stopped looking at women. I never ever touched a woman then." 

Pooja asked, "Why do you take such drastic steps? You have a life; you have to live it. Marry someone, Vikram." Vikram said, "I will one day if my mind is ready, but not now." 

"Why?" Pooja asked. 

Vikram said, "I loved you, and how could I possibly marry someone immediately?" 

Pooja said, "Why not?" 

Vikram asked, "Imagine your love Arjun, if he married someone, and people around you urge for immediate marriage, will you agree? Won't you need time to heal or time to recover? Won't your mind need time to process and prepare itself for accepting someone you don't love into marriage?"

Pooja said, "Yeah, I will do that way. 

And That's what I'm doing too."

Ever since you got married, I was broken, Pooja. I'm being honest with you—I could not see you get married into someone; that's why I didn't attend your marriage." 

Pooja asked, "What do you see in me to give your heart this much?"

Vikram said, "I don't know where to start. Frankly, love has no reason to occupy one—maybe love at first sight, or your help in saving my reputation from the crowd on annual tech day.

Frankly, I was only used to helping others as I have abundant money; if someone helps me, it could be for some hidden purpose. I've been with only such women in the past—some looked after my posh things, some on my money, some just sex. I have never had genuine care in my life. You know that annual tech day, with my reputation as a bad womanizer, you still came forward to help and fix my flawed project algorithm in the presentation, saving my day. 

That was the first time I decided this is the woman I should give my life to—actually, that incident fixed me to you. Even before that, the first time I met you at the parking lot, you instantly got into me like a love at first sight but those times i look women different i looked that way, only after few minutes i realised, your eyes doing something in me, i tried to reach you to as k your name, but is saw the colleagues bullying you, I actually ran towards you to save, but Arjun came in time. 

But I didn't leave them—I gave them a nice beating, but you went in the lift before witnessing it." 

Pooja asked, "So the bandages on their skin the next day were due to your beatings, not Arjun?" 

Vikram nodded, "Yes." 

"What else did you do for me, Vikram? You were everywhere, just like Arjun. You were just a little late," Pooja said. Vikram nodded, "Yes, love has no reason. You can just pity me, but your love for Arjun is still unshakable—how could I shake your marriage with you being strong this way? I'm repeating again: if you feel loveless, come to me. I'm here; I will shower you love. But right now, you are just under some misunderstanding, financial hurdles—allow me to part of your sorrow, let me help you sort it out." 

Pooja softened, realizing his true love. She asked, "I don't know what to tell." Vikram said, 

"Pooja, I LOVE YOU." 

Arjun felt some urge a shock a current pasing trough him when vikram expressed his love and pooja silently taking it 

Pooja turned her face. she uttered you know im married and yes i love only ....

Vikram continued, "...Arjun. 

You love only Arjun, I know that. I didn't ask you to love me; I just ask you to acknowledge I'm loving you madly, deeply. Just acknowledge it; I will let this go when the time comes. Until then, give me this joy." Pooja looked into his eyes, silence occupied them. Vikram was a conflicted person now to himself—deep down, he wanted her to split from Arjun so he could have her, but as he spoke to Pooja, his genuineness, care, and love occupied rather than his intention. Basically, Vikram knew he was not bad; he was just fixed to demand Pooja, in sex or love.

Arjun was shocked to see an old flame proposing boldly to his wife and his wife silence killing him further. 

Vikram continued, "I just want you to do only one thing: remember whenever trouble arises or you feel empty, you can solidly believe there is Vikram—he loved me unconditionally and will be here if I call. That's the thing I want you to believe." Pooja's eyes watered; she looked at the sky, unanswered, her heart full. She thanked him after a minute, "I will remember."

He caught her hand, their palms together. Vikram smiled; Pooja smiled. 

This was the moment Vikram was expecting. 

Pooja feeling a flicker of empathy for Vikram's devotion. Vikram stood up from his place (opposite to each other) to sit near her on the cushion, but as he walked, he noticed a sandal and body hidden in the garden. 

For a second, he was shocked—it's Arjun. What was he doing here, hiding? His mind stuck, all these time when he was proposing to his wife, Arjun was silent—what the hell. Vikram's mind instantly ran: What if he's with someone all day in an affair or sort and hid here seeing us? Or what if he was just on leave for depression or sort as a reason he was here and still hiding here doubting us, likely waiting patiently to catch us? Strangely, a third reason struck—what if he is a cuckold and voyeuristic man? In either way, it felt odd, but the animal in Vikram occupied his brain: If he is genuine, the moment we lied about the birthday party in the car, he should have confronted us when we entered, so likely he must have wild intention. I should check this if he has this intention—Pooja, no one can stop me from taking you in bed... finally the animal in Vikram occupies his brain.

Arjun, who once wanted to leave Pooja to Vikram, is now very conflicted as things unfold before his eyes.
..... End of Chapter 10

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 11: Arjun Watches, Vikram Woos Pooja [18+]

Vikram settled onto the cushion beside Pooja, his decision firm—to test Arjun's reaction. Pooja glanced at him, her eyes heavy with doubt. He leaned in, his voice soft but deliberate. "You need this," he said, patting his shoulder. "This arm—you need this. Catch it, cry on it, let it go. When we go back, I want to see a Pooja with a clear conscience, nothing affecting her. We always need someone to cry for, to lean on—an emotional baggage carrier. I'll be one tonight. Lean on me, shed all the tears. You're affecting yourself too much." Pooja hesitated, her hands trembling, but Vikram gently pulled her, guiding her head to rest on his shoulder, her hands gripping his arms. In that moment, she needed someone—and Vikram was there.

Minutes passed, and Vikram felt the dampness seeping through his shirt sleeve as Pooja cried uncontrollably. "Cry as much as you want," he murmured, his tone soothing yet calculating. He shifted, raising his arm to dbang it around her shoulder, and her body collided freely against his, her head nestled into him.

 Arjun, hidden in the shadows, fumed, his fists clenching. I can't let this go further—but I wanted Vikram to take her. How can I watch this, even if it's just consoling? His conflict tore at him, a mix of rage and the bitter taste of his own plan.

Vikram smirked as Pooja's tears soaked his shoulder, pleased by Arjun's silence. He's locked on something—this is my chance. I should use it, split them for real, not just for sex, he thought. Leaning closer, he whispered, "Pooja, speak your heart out. Don't store anything in your head and hurt yourself. Open to me, please. Trust me—even if I can't find a solution, you'll feel light after speaking out." 

Pooja, still resting on his shoulder, fell silent for a minute before her voice broke through. "Vikram, please speak openly. Honestly, keep your good-man image aside and tell me what you honestly feel about Arjun's recent change, his lie, his unusual phone calls, that Anjali."

Vikram paused, weighing his words carefully. He wanted to inject doubt without triggering Arjun to emerge and defend himself. "I don't know, Pooja. My head reasons a lot of things, but only you have the answer for it," he said, playing safe. 

Pooja pressed, "Just be honest—is he cheating?" Vikram hesitated, then replied, "It can be anything, Pooja. It could be just business, or it may be cheating as you fear, but the cheating part—I don't think so. But it's true he lied to you. He could have said, 'I went to meet them so and so,' as you said, but he didn't. That's what raises my doubt to a big level. And that Anjali—she seems to be hiding a lot behind." Pooja's eyes widened. "You confronted Anjali directly, right?" Vikram nodded. "Yes."

"What if she alerts Arjun and he slams you?" Pooja asked, worry creasing her brow. "What if the real reason is just business—will he think me bad for doubting?" Vikram's voice was steady. "If that case arises, I'll take the blame for you. If he wants me to go, I will. If he asks how I got the number, pretend you don't know. If he doesn't cheat and he's good, reason with him that I loved you one-sided, in an attempt to cause a rift, I used a way to destroy the relation. So I found the number, reached Anjali, and you had no part in it." Pooja looked up at him, lightly slapping his face. "Fuck your sacrifices—be real. I won't leave you in trouble. Let me agree and pacify if he doesn't cheat." Vikram smiled faintly. "I'm telling you the truth."

Pooja exhaled deeply, then asked, "I'm just clearing my head, linking things—his distancing recently, these lies, Anjali. Am I overthinking?" Vikram saw his opening. "Pooja, listen, the answer lies with you two, and especially within you. Let me tell you a story." He crafted it carefully, unaware that Arjun's recent rejection of Pooja's advances stemmed from a headache, not disinterest. "Some loves are everlasting, rare, exceptional—they give back, support, hold together, never fading. Some are momentary, staying a while then fading. Especially after marriage, it's normal—partners grow lethargic, avoiding attention. Earlier, they act fast, do silly things to race ahead of competitors eyeing their partner, impress them, get married. Once achieved, they don't need to please the other, so affection slows. 

My friend loved a woman—didn't know why at first. Later, he realized it was for beauty and sex. Before marriage, they had sex; the heat stayed until then, but now it's lost. He overused it, his wishes fulfilled, no longer wanting her in bed. This frustrated her, leading to divorce, while he continued outside."

Pooja's mind reeled, Arjun's admission of a competitive proposal and his avoidance of intimacy flooding back. Doubt intensified within her. Vikram continued, "Problems may come and go between coupls its actually incompatible post marriage, but sex is one part that ensures they're treating us good. Differences fade in bed; if not, it's a sign they're moving away." 

Pooja's tears fell uncontrollably, Vikram's injection succeeding. "I don't want to ask how your sex life is," he added. "You don't need to share personal details—just analyze yourself, as someone who loves you truly is telling this, so you can spot, analyze, and fix it." Seeing her tears, he wiped one away, catching her face. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry—did I touch the wrong thing? I'm sorry." Pooja sobbed, "No, it matches Arjun's doing... what?" Vikram asked, alarmed. She cried again, and he turned her side, pulling her into a tight embrace. Her body pressed against his, the heat unimaginable, 

Arjun's pulse racing. She's so close to him—how can I bear this? Arjun thought, torn between stopping them and his own plan.

Vikram said, "Pooja, I'm here for you. Let's fix this—I promise you, I'll beat him and get you back." She cried for a few more minutes, slowing down, and Vikram decided on another move. He raised her face gently, kissing her forehead. "YOU CAN TRUST ME. I'm here for you—just control yourself, let's plan." He said, "Get up," but Pooja remained in the embrace.

To lighten the mood, he teased, "Pooja, you once said you hate when I touch you—now you're fully hugging me." A smile crept up on her face; she mockingly beat his arms. 

Vikram grinned, "Welcome back, my queen." 

Pooja laughed, "You idiot..." She added, "That was when you half-bakedly said you love me. Today, it's different—I realize your true intent for me, and I respect your love, though I cannot reciprocate. 

You said I can always lean on you and count on you when trouble arises—I just did that." 

Vikram nodded. "Good. I don't want to bring the topic again—I understand why you cried now."

Pooja said, "I'll tell you openly. Arjun admitted sometimes back, when I said about you loving me, he said he was like in a competition and hence quickly proposed, marrying me. He even said he doesn't want kids as it would spoil our youth, and for the second year now, I've used pills. But recent days, his distance is hurting, and Vikram..." She struggled to continue. "Go on," he urged. "Keep it with yourself—it's months since Arjun touched me, and now Anjali—I sense something is completely wrong." She caught his hand. "Please don't take advantage of me. If you truly love me, just get me the truth. I fear confronting him, I fear the truth—if it's all good hearing from him is fine, if it's all wrong, I cannot face it."

Vikram listened silently, his hand catching hers again in assurance. "I want more details—when was the time you felt it went odd, like slow distance, no love kind of stuff?" Pooja said, "It's right after the startup plan." Vikram thought, his genuineness briefly winning over his demon side, and asked, "There must be at least some moments that bring back his old self—what was that?" Pooja said, "He was always business, debt, running errands, etc. Suddenly, she added, off late, only at two instances I saw old Arjun. When I said he that you loved me, his advice, his care, his thoughtfulness was like old Arjun. 

There's a contrast in how he behaved a week back—in this same guesthouse, he was drunk—you remember, Vikram?" Vikram nodded. "The second time was after you returned. I was telling Arjun I was complaining to Vikram about his distance; instantly he said, 'Why don't I treat him as a friend first?' Also, he was the only one who said you are a womanizer after your return. I guess he's jealous about you being close with me. What I understand, he gets jealous when I say about you or something like that. He even wanted to settle back all your help; he seems to run for it. I don't know—I'm confused by his way of behavior."

Vikram laughed. "You should see it this way: whenever I was a subject of topic, according to Arjun, I'm his love rival, so he's offended and tries to project himself first, like he's your sole savior, the only person to rely on basically a hero... That's a good sign he's not giving up on you. Even if he's cheating with Anjali—I'm telling just a worst case—him not letting you go to a friend even for conversation is a sign that he still has it for you. You can win him back anytime (I'm just saying in that case, I'm not telling he is cheating now—we are just imagining this isn't real)." Vikram calculated something, aware Arjun was hiding, and decided to up the game with sharp manipulation, the price being Pooja's body. "Okay, it's too late, Pooja—let's go ahead," he said. She replied, "Okay, thank you, Vikram, I feel light today. Okay, see, don't ask anything to Arjun—it might hurt him. We can slowly analyze and fix things, continue to shower your love, just hope he will retreat back soon. We can face the issue if Arjun asks us—I didn't reveal my name to Anjali, so she couldn't have an idea who asked about Arjun. So I hope she may not have alarmed Arjun. Even so, who will she name?" Pooja said, "Okay, I won't ask anything—let's watch him."

As Pooja and Vikram left the spot, Arjun slowly emerged, thankful the spare key was in his pants. He unlocked the door after hearing the engine start and stepped out. Vikram, driving the Thar with Pooja, stopped at a point outside on the road near a tree, where he could watch the guesthouse. He faked a car issue, opened the front bonnet, and pretended to fix it while his eyes fixed on the gate. Five minutes later, he saw a figure approach the road as a car arrived—it was Arjun. Vikram confirmed it, and before Arjun could see him, he closed the bonnet, started the engine, and swiftly raced off.

On the way, his mind calculated furiously. Given the case, Arjun hides something. After so much happening now at the rooftop, it's clear that he's okay even if I kiss her or even more. I've asked Pooja not to confront on who Anjali is, so Pooja won't bring the topic, even about the office lie. If Arjun comes and explains or confronts, he'll get caught for hiding here, so in a way, no one will question no one. It's a clear path for me to manipulate. Pooja broke the silence. "Hey, Vikram, what happened? What are you thinking?" Vikram decided to unveil his game, something he didn't want Arjun to hear on the rooftop. "I'm thinking about you and Arjun," he said. Pooja asked, "What is it about?" Vikram replied, "It's the last part of what we spoke there." Pooja: "About his jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes, if jealousy is bringing him back and working, why not we try it?" Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "By us being closer, emotionally and subtly physically close." Pooja fell silent for a minute, then said, "You mean like in cinema drama, hero being closer with others to spark jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes. But it's different here." Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "There, the hero will be colliding with the heroine and they act—it's mutual. Here, it's different; only I will be initiating it." Pooja: "Why? Only you? I can support a bit too—maybe if he is doing too much, then let's put on an act." Vikram playfully hit her and said, "Idiot, if you do like it, he may think you bad, like a bitch." Pooja asked, "Then what should I do?" Vikram said, "Listen to my explanation. From what you said, I guess he fears his love rival—that's me, I might steal his girlfriend. Underline the word 'stealing'—that's why he came out and became old Arjun those times. If you did like you are consenting to it, he'll lose fire to protect you. Either he'll call you a bitch and go back to Anjali, or he'll think, 'Okay, Pooja got a person to satisfy her needs—I need to focus on Anjali.' In both ways, he will leave you. 

The only way we can get back Arjun is by installing fear. Imagine, you are treating me as a friend always, a bit closer after his distance that even Arjun notices. Now, if he maintains the same and you stay in the same boundary, I'm coming and taking advantage of you. He'll see I'm crossing the line, which your eyes show discomfort—he will strike back to get you back." 

Pooja: "Wow, you are a schemer." 

Vikram: "I used many such schemes when I was going back to women." 

Pooja: "Experience speaks." 

Vikram looked at her and said, "I experienced bodies but never a love." 

Pooja caught his hand and said, "You will one day—not me—someone who is really good to you." They smiled and looked at the road. Vikram struck back, "Let's start slowly—conversation, sitting closer in the same place, cooking together, slowly I touch you, I put my arms around you, we go shopping together. 

There's your relatives' marriage right at Coimbatore—we've purchased for them—I'll join you guys. Let's slowly get his attention. For him, my every move is a step to seduce you; for us, my every move is to bring him back from Anjali." Vikram raised his palm and said, "Let's tease him, make him more jealous, let him suffer getting a taste of losing—the only way he can look back." Pooja kept her hand on his palm in acknowledgment of a promise or pledge.

With Pooja's support, the demon in Vikram surged. Let me cuckold you, Arjun—my revenge for taking my girl before I was about to propose, he said to himself.

They reached the house, and as Pooja was getting inside, Vikram pulled her back, causing her to trip. He grabbed her, his body a support for her to stand. Pooja asked, "What happened?" Vikram grinned, "I've begun practicing." A smile crept up on Pooja's face as she said playfully, "Be a friend as always—don't try to use your scheme on me," and went inside.


Chapter 12: Vikram's Seduction Starts, Aided by Pooja's Role [18+]

Continuation, 15 kms away

Arjun sat in the cab, the hum of the engine fading into the background as he drove home on night,  The guesthouse lingered in his mind, replaying every word Pooja had shared with Vikram—her doubts, her tears, her loneliness. His hands tightened on the wheel as guilt crashed over him. What have I done? he thought. It's all my fault she's slipping toward Vikram. In the silence, he traced his mistakes, each a step he believed triggered her escalation.

First, he recalled, after the startup, I stopped taking her anywhere. I was buried in business, oblivious that my focus left her feeling lonely. Pooja would never have doubted my love if I'd just spent time with her. The memory stung—nights of meetings, no dates, no drives along ECR.

Second, his mind shifted to his depression over debts. I stayed detached from regular life, like a simple chat with her. All I talked about was 'Do you have extra money?' or 'Where can we get a loan?'—those are the only memories this year. I neglected her, and I didn't even see it would make her feel this way. Pooja would never have felt neglected or taken for granted if I'd been present.

Third, he winced at the recent headache that stopped their intimacy. I couldn't make love, but that doesn't mean I dislike her or that I've had enough. Yet, with Vikram's friend story, Pooja might've bought into the idea I married her just for beauty and sex. That's on me for not explaining.

Fourth, the moment he discovered his health issue flashed back. I should have called her right then. Pooja would never have left my side, not even a bit, if I'd trusted her with the truth.

Fifth, he remembered that day he went to pick her up. Instead of turmoil, I should have waited and picked her up myself. Giving a chance for Vikram to give a lift let him suddenly enter our life—this was my mistake.

Sixth, Vikram asking to stay hit him next. I should have said no when he asked for help to stay in our house. That would've reduced any minimal involvement of him further—I missed that chance.

Seventh, the confession moment replayed. When Vikram admitted he loved her, I should have kicked him out instead of that diplomatic talk with Pooja. She would've seen I love her the most and am possessive—I missed showing that.

Eighth, he regretted letting Vikram back. When Pooja wanted him around again, I should not have allowed it. She would never have stopped things that worried me if I'd set boundaries.

Ninth, the office lie gnawed at him. I shouldn't have said I was at the office. I could've said something else. Pooja would never have doubted my honesty, and she'd have kept a big distance from Vikram.

Tenth, the guesthouse night haunted him. I should have confronted Vikram the moment he came in with Pooja. She would've feared me, and Vikram would've stopped his manipulation.

Arjun's head throbbed as the cab neared home. It's not destiny or Vikram's love or schemes. Maybe he eyed Pooja or orchestrated things, but everything was done by my inaction. Vikram having a hand over her is due to me. 

He wrestled with his next move. Should I let them go ahead, or should I be honest? I don't want Pooja to live alone, and I don't want to worry about my health. I just want to see her happy before I go. I should digest this a bit. But he wasn't fully decided—he leaned more toward stopping Vikram, a cat on the wall, torn between surrender and action. 

The cab stopped, and he stumbled out, heading to a bar instead, drinking until the world blurred. Drunk, he staggered home, avoiding conversation as he collapsed on the couch.

Pooja and Vikram, already home, heard the door creak. Pooja rushed to find Arjun slumped, reeking of alcohol. "Arjun! You're drunk?" she gasped, her voice trembling. Vikram stepped forward, steadying Arjun. "Let's get him upstairs," he said, helping her move him to the bedroom. 

As they laid him down, Vikram doubted Arjun's drunken state was a shield to avoid talk. "Don't worry, Pooja—he's just drunk," he reassured. "Arjun never drank like this," she murmured, confused.

In two years of marriage, he'd only pretended once before—the smell hadn't been this strong. Is he acting again, or is this real? she wondered, the odor overwhelming. Unable to sleep beside him, she retreated to the sofa downstairs.

Morning came at 6:30 AM , Pooja woke, stunned to find herself in Vikram's bedroom. Vikram entered with bed coffee, smiling. "Good morning!" he said cheerfully. "How did I land here?" she asked, alarmed. "You were so tired on the sofa, I lifted you here," he explained. 

"Where were you sleeping, Vikram?" she pressed. "Right beside you," he grinned. "See, your nightgown's untouched apart from lifting you—those wrinkles are from you turning. I'm a pakka gentleman." He laughed, easing her tension. "What if Arjun saw me here?" she worried. "Calm down," Vikram soothed. "He's still out, full drunk. I locked his room from outside last night and just opened it—he's asleep. We're safe."

He leaned closer. "We should start our closeness right away." "How?" Pooja asked, hesitant. "Cooking," he suggested. "If I touch you directly, it'll feel odd, and everyone might think we're acting. Let's make it natural—slow progress. We're not challenging him today, got it?" Pooja nodded, unsure but trusting.

By 8:00 AM, Arjun stumbled downstairs, groggy. He saw Pooja and Vikram cooking—a new scene. Usually, Vikram just chatted, but now he co-cooked. "Hi, Arjun, slept well?" Vikram greeted. "See, today I'm cooking—Pooja's helping me." He pinched Pooja discreetly when Arjun wasn't looking. Pooja alarmed that pinch was for to speak with arjun casually. Pooja smiled, handing Arjun tea. "I've arranged everything for our Coimbatore trip. Flights are too expensive—important muhurtham, so tickets in any mode of transporation, we need to go early." It was a lie, coached by Vikram to ensure Vikram drove the 500+ km, swapping with Arjun.

Arjun frowned. "Is that so? Bus or train?" "Already full," Pooja lied smoothly. "We need to drive. Let's start a day earlier." Arjun protested, "No way—1,000+ km up and down. I can't drive, and I won't risk you driving." Pooja pleaded, "I can't miss this event, Arjun. If it was your family function, you'd nag me to go." Arjun sighed, "Oh no, women, women, women." Vikram laughed, "Chill, Arjun. If the car's a headache, I'll drive. You okay with me coming? I can handle it—I'm bored here with no trips for months."

Arjun thought of his father-in-law's harsh treatment and Pooja's plea. To give her this happiness, I'll go by car. But what if my headache worsens? Vikram's a danger, yet I can only rely on him now. 

He relented, "Vikram, it's okay—you can come. But if you're bored, I'm not responsible—it's full of family events." Vikram nodded, "I'm fine." 

As Arjun turned to leave, Vikram called, "Hey, hey, Pooja, that's not how to cut. Let me teach you." He stood behind her, his body slightly pressed against her back, catching her hand to chop vegetables. He murmured in her ear, "Look, he might say something—I'm too close." Pooja felt a strange fire but consoled herself, It's for winning back Arjun.

Arjun couldn't digest it. "Vikram, which car should we take—mine or yours?" Vikram smiled, "Whichever—mine's better for a long drive." 

As Arjun moved away, Vikram winked and flashed a victory sign. Pooja forced a smile, her mind racing.

The next day morning, Monday, Vikram, Pooja, and Arjun got ready and packed their things. As planned, they started in Vikram's Thar jeep. 

Pooja announced, "Whoever drives, I don't care—I need to sit in the front passenger seat." It was a plan set in motion by Vikram, and Pooja played her role. 

Arjun first drove the car. Three hours into the drive, his headache returned. Mild songs played, Pooja randomly spoke to him, but nothing sank in as the pain worsened. He pulled over at a tea shop. Everyone stepped out, had tea, and prepared to get back. Arjun, his mind in turmoil, asked Vikram to drive. 
Vikram seized the chance, moving to the front seat. Pooja boarded beside him. In the pretense of adjusting her seatbelt, Vikram leaned in close, his body pressing against hers in a hug-like manner, creating an erotic tension. His face was inches from hers. Pooja's breath hitched; he winked, whispering, "Arjun could watch." She caught the mirror—Arjun was lost in thought. Pooja hinted he hadn't seen. Vikram's body lingered against hers, the closeness unnerving. Pooja softly said, "That's enough," her voice shaky, stepping back slightly. Arjun caught a glimpse, but his mind churned with disturbance. He couldn't decide between business, his wife, or his obsession with giving her away. He loved her dearly, wanting to free her from him, yet couldn't live without her for a second. He wished for something good to give him clear direction, unaware that tomorrow, at the marriage function, something would happen to guide him to embrace her till the end. Exhausted, he didn't know when he fell asleep. He woke two hours later to find Pooja's hand on the gear, Vikram's hand over hers, saying, "This is how we shift gears." The sight plunged Arjun back into thought. He coughed; the duo pulled their hands away. "Let me drive, Vikram," he said. Pooja's smile returned.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 13: First Kiss

Vikram had been driving for nearly three hours straight, the Thar jeep humming along the road toward Coimbatore  With two hours still to go, Arjun, firm in his resolve, refused to let Vikram continue. Pooja, worried about his health, urged, "Vikram should drive, Arjun." But Arjun snapped, "No!" She stopped the music player, her voice soft yet firm, "You said you have a headache—how can you drive?" 

A realization dawned—she sensed his jealousy, his reluctance to let her sit with Vikram. "Okay, I'm coming with you in the back seat. Rest your head on me," she said. Arjun slowed the car, and they moved to the back. Vikram took the wheel. Pooja's smile returned as, after a long time, Arjun placed his head on her shoulder. She thanked Vikram through the mirror glass, thinking, These tricks worked. Arjun's inner turmoil breached—his eyes teared up, missing her softness, her love. How stupid of you to move away from her, he thought. Pooja sensed the tears, asking, "What happened, Arjun?" He mumbled, "Nothing, just a headache," and slept like a baby on her shoulder. Vikram, watching them, felt a mix of emotions—partly happy seeing her joy, partly angry at Arjun for his distant act and hidden secrets causing Pooja's turmoil. He genuinely cared for Arjun, yet jealousy simmered.

Two hours later, they reached Coimbatore. Vikram drove them to a nearby drive-in restaurant, bringing food for all. After eating, he took them to the booked lodge. After helping with the luggage, Vikram finally hit the bed in his room. A knock came at his door. He opened it to find Pooja, who hugged him tightly and said, "Thanks," her chest pressing against him unexpectedly. "Hey, Pooja, what happened?" he asked, startled. "See, he loves me so much. He slept like a child on my shoulder. I missed this all these days. If not for our jealousy game, he wouldn't have let me do it. Thanks," she said, her voice warm. Vikram was half-minded—unable to fully rejoice in their reunion or mourn his missed chance. He caught her face, kissing her forehead deeply for two minutes. She pushed him away, "What?" Vikram smiled, "I'm happy for you. Finally, I see your smile this big." Pooja shook with joy like a college kid, his words catching her heart. She knew he loved her deeply. Not wanting to hurt him, she placed her hand on his chest, patting it. Feeling his heartbeat, she said, "Someone apt will get this..." Vikram smiled, though she knew she was hurting him. "Maybe I should move city. In Chennai, Anjali's presence is troubling him. Here in Coimbatore, he's his old self," she mused. Vikram asked, "Did you confirm it's Anjali and cheating, you idiot? Now he's back—just enjoy with him, go ahead." Pooja shyly smiled and returned to her room.

Arjun was just stepping out of the shower. Pooja went in, then came back in bra and panties to entice him. But she faced a cold dismissal—Arjun bluntly said, "Wear some nightgown. Are you going to sleep with these? I'm tired, Pooja." Unsure what to do, she climbed into bed. When his hand hugged her as she settled, she feared pushing for sex, feeling shame, and left it be.

The next day, dressed up, Pooja and Arjun got ready. Vikram met them at the reception, and they headed to the mandapam 5 km away for the cousin's wedding. Pooja avoided Vikram's eyes, recalling her happiness from the night yet frustrated that nothing happened in their room. How can I tell him things didn't go as planned? she thought, turned off. Vikram, like a lonely driver, sat upfront. At the mandapam, Arjun introduced Vikram to everyone. Pooja slowly began talking to Vikram, apologizing, "Sorry, I was too much last night." Vikram asked, "Nothing fruitful happened, right? Hmm, that's what they say in cricket—don't celebrate before hitting a century." She awkward smiled, then accompanied him while Arjun mingled with relatives. An aged man, seeing Pooja with Vikram, asked her father-in-law, "Who is he?" Her father-in-law replied, "Her friend." The relative muttered, "These days, married women appreciating men's friendship—it all goes to cheating, leaving husbands behind." Unaware of Arjun nearby, her father-in-law shouted at the relative, defending Pooja. Later, he approached Arjun, apologizing, then revealed, "Pooja would never treat you bad or harm your reputation, mapplai. You know, when you met an accident weeks before marriage, in the same hospital, another patient was admitted under your name. They called for Arjun's relative—we went, and the doctor said you can't conceive due to the accident. All relatives wanted her to leave you, but she said, 'It's okay, let him consider me as his baby and live with me.' She even barred me and my wife for two days from seeing you. May be she hided this as it could not hurt you. Only on the second day, when confusion cleared, she let us in. How could such a woman leave you, mapplai? These relatives know nothing; they blabber generally." Arjun was shocked. What did I do to earn such love? His heart sank. Why should she waste her life for me? He decided on something stronger. Vikram, overhearing, felt jealous—How did he win her?

That evening, before returning to the lodge, Vikram asked Pooja, "What did he do to you that you defended him in the hospital that way?" i overheared your father telling this. Pooja replied, "Vikram, you once said love has no reason, so does mine. The first spark said he's mine, and I've treated him that way. He's my love of life—our eyes say we're made to be together." Vikram patted her shoulder and moved away, leaving Pooja wondering, Am I hurting Vikram again and again?

That night at the lodge, Pooja made a move. Arjun caught her hand, asking, "What do you want?" Hesitantly, she said, "We haven't made love for months." Arjun replied, "I'm not in the mood, just sleep." The rejection cut her like a blade. At 12 AM, she received a text from Vikram: "Come to my room. I'm bleeding—a sharp knife cut." She woke Arjun, and they rushed to Vikram's room. As he opened the door, it was dark. He pulled them in, and before they could react, a candle lit up—"Happy Birthday, Pooja!" It was Vikram's surprise. Arjun slammed him, "Why are you disturbing my sleep?" Pooja was hurt—How could he not see the intention behind it? Vikram calmed Arjun, "See, it's her birthday." Arjun retorted, "I know, there's a time for it, not this way." Pooja's gaze turned icy, feeling like killing him. Arjun added, "See, traveling long drive, I need proper sleep. You guys celebrate it—cut that soon, Pooja. Pooja cuts while, vikram sing, arjun caught the cake soon from her hand and gets a bit , he gave back quick and said, im done, you guys celerbrate, i need to sleep.Open the door slow without noise," and he shut the door, leaving them alone.
 Pooja couldn't control her tears, throwing the cake in anger, "Today, I'm going to finish him!" Vikram controlled her, "We're at a new place—calm down. Maybe he's really tired." She sobbed, "Why is he doing this to me? Am I becoming unimportant? He's rejecting me on bed, now on my birthday—why is he avoiding me?" Vikram pulled her and made her sit on the bed, consoling her in a tight embrace. Only then did he realize, beneath her nightgown, Pooja wore nothing—no bra. His manhood rose. The moment Vikram lost control, he said, "He hurts you, but you feed him cake. When it was my turn, you threw it away." Despite this, she laughed, "I'm sorry." Her face lit up as she asked, "You know how to make me laugh?" He went down, picked a cake piece that wasn't spoiled, and returned. He gave it to her hand, "Feed me." She did, and he fed her, "Happy birthday, my love. From today, I should not see your tears." He caught her face, before she realise, vikram sealed his mouth on hers, their lips meeting in a deep, electric kiss. For five minutes, their mouths fused—Pooja felt a surge of forbidden desire, her body trembling as Vikram's warmth ignited a primal hunger, his breath hot against her skin. Vikram's heart raced, a mix of triumph and longing, his hands gripping her tighter as lust pulsed through him. Yet, as their lips parted, guilt stabbed Pooja—This is wrong, I'm married—while Vikram's chest tightened with regret, I've crossed a line. She broke away, quickly stood, and tried to speak but stopped, "We should not cross it, Vikram. I know I hurt you. You love me, but..." Vikram reached her, "I know my limits. I just felt you deserve better. I couldn't let your birthday mood spoil. He denied you sex; I gave you a kiss—accepting or rejecting is your choice. Like a bull or alpha, I make my statement. Good night." Pooja moved her mind, Am I cheating? No, we should speak with Vikram in the morning and clear things.

Chapter 14: Echoes of Doubt

Continuatoion: 

A few minutes earlier, while Pooja was kissing Vikram inside the room, Arjun had spotted them through the keyhole. Torn between anguish and resolve, he knew this was the only way forward. Initially skeptical about leaving Pooja alone, the father-in-law's revelation about her stubborn loyalty—marrying him despite the doctor's mistaken claim of his infertility—shifted his perspective. 

How will she move to another if she holds this love for me? he realized. Moving away and letting Vikram in wouldn't solve it; he needed her to forget him, to hate him. She'd fight for my behavior if I push her enough, he thought. I'm sorry, Pooja, I have to hurt you, but let me do it tactically instead of shouting. Ten minutes later, Pooja arrived at his room. Arjun acted like he was sleeping, resolving, Going forward, I'll do all things to make her feel I'm distant, carry no love or care, and if necessary, show real hatred for my doings.

Morning arrived , Pooja got ready while Arjun was still sleeping. She woke him, and he prepared for the morning function at their cousin's home, after which they'd head back to Chennai. 

Pooja couldn't believe she'd let Vikram kiss her—How did he do it so suddenly, with that tone asserting control over me? Should I confront him? What if he says I was involved? Her head was blank since last night, a mix of guilt and confusion. She avoided speaking with Vikram as they approached the car after vacating the lodge. Torn, she wondered where to sit—with Arjun, who hadn't wished her a happy birthday, or Vikram, who'd crossed a boundary. Vikram approached, saying, "Sit back with Arjun. I'll take some flowers in the front passenger seat." As they boarded, Vikram slowed at a flower shop, purchasing ritual items, then diverted to a famous temple nearby instead of the cousin's house. Arjun asked, "Why are we here?" Vikram replied, "It's Pooja's birthday—I thought we'd visit." Arjun acted surprised, "Sorry, Pooja, my mind's stuck. I'm really sorry, happy birthday." He stepped out, buying a mallipoo flower, a traditional husband's gift, lifting Pooja's spirits. Inside the temple, she happily held Arjun's hand.

The temple was crowded, and they decided on a ticketed poojai. They got three tickets. Vikram wrote his name and zodiac signs, then asked Arjun for his star sign and nakshatra, which Arjun provided. Vikram took another ticket to write Pooja's name. Watching, Pooja expected Arjun to know her signs, but he asked, "Sorry, what were yours?" To avoid humiliation before Vikram, she opened her mouth to say but, she was surprised to see Vikram had already written her signs. 

So you know her a lot, Vikram, Arjun thought privately. 

Pooja felt a pang—her husband, whom she loved, didn't know her details, while Vikram, with his one-sided love, remembered everything. The husband forgot her birthday; the friend didn't. She closed her eyes, letting the thoughts go. After the temple prayers, the trio headed to the cousin's house.

Pooja chatted casually with cousin Veni while Arjun mingled with relatives. 



Vikram, lost in thought, processed recent events. I mustn't spoil the game by overstepping, he mused, deciding to check Pooja's pulse. He called his apartment contractors, learning the renovation finished five days ago. He asked for neat arrangements and key handover the next day, planning to leave Arjun's house in a week. A split will give her a taste of wanting me for solace, company, and discussion, he believed. Twenty minutes later, Veni mentioned 30-40 sarees for return gifts, asking Pooja to pick. Confused, she asked Arjun to choose. Keeping her birthday in mind, he picked a rich one, but Pooja's eyes showed disinterest. Vikram, arriving to ask about leaving, heard Veni tease, "Sir, your friend Arjun didn't pick a good one for Pooja. You choose—let's see if she likes it." Pooja's eyes tested Vikram's knowledge. He swiftly selected a blue, red, and brown saree, saying, "Pooja would pick one of these." Stunned, she realized she'd eyed those colors, but to avoid hurting Arjun or letting others question their relationship, she said, "Arjun's was better; I'll take that." Veni teased, "Sir, you're a poor friend," and a few women laughed. Vikram walked away, and Pooja felt happy inside yet guilty for hurting him again. Society doesn't know what I like; they want my husband to seem understanding. Let that safe game play, she thought.

They returned to drive to Chennai. Vikram took the wheel, with Arjun and Pooja in the back. Pooja felt torn—At least I should've sat in front. Arjun slept, and since morning, she hadn't spoken to vikram since morning. He crossed the line, but he just loves me, maybe without perverse thoughts. Why am I punishing him? Maybe I should speak and protect his friendship, she thought. Vikram slowed at a restaurant. As Arjun and Pooja went in, Vikram announced, "I'm sleeping for a bit." Pooja felt bad—If it were yesterday, before the kiss, I'd have dragged him by the hand to eat. That kiss really pushed us away. Her mind panicked, but she did nothing, just watching him alone. After lunch, Arjun offered to drive, but Vikram ignored him. They reached Chennai at 8 PM, had dinner at an open dine, and Arjun thanked Vikram, who replied, "What's this between friends?" The night went quiet; all, tired, hit the bed early.

Next day, as Arjun got ready for office, Pooja woke, dressed, and arrived. Seeing Vikram ready too, he asked, "Shall we go?" She replied, "Hmm," her first proper response in 24 hours. 

Pooja said, "I didn't prepare food. Vikram and I will eat at the office; Arjun, you eat outside." 

He nodded. As she joined Vikram's car, they sat quietly after 10 minutes pooja breaked the silence,  she asked, "Why didn't you let Arjun drive yesterday?" Vikram responded, "I wasn't sure about your mental state. You might've felt unsafe with me, torn about the toughs plus you might want to stick with him, so I drove to give you stability and safety, not to bother you. I'm sorry, Pooja, for crossing the line that night. Honestly, I was pissed at how Arjun rejected you and ignored your birthday—his sleep mattered more than your peace. I thought your need for intimacy should be honored; I didn't care about morality. I thought a kiss might solidify your state of mind. I didn't consider how you'd feel—I'm really sorry. I'm not perverse; I had you and your feelings in my head, but I hurt you again. I'm sorry." 

Pooja measured each word, inwardly agreeing, but stayed neutral, saying, "It's okay, I'm sorry too. I should've spoken to you." She then asked, "How did you know my stars, birthday, and colors I like?" Vikram said, "I've loved you for over three years, even after your marriage—you're all I have in my heart. Won't I know? Your birthday's a week before mine. I followed you to a temple to learn your stars. Colors—your scooty, purse, slipper set, fake necklace, and kurtas—all dominated by blue, red, and brown." 

Pooja gazed into his eyes intensely—Why does this man love me so much? Doesn't he know I'm taken and can't come to him? She didn't respond. 

Vikram handed her his mobile, saying, "Open the gallery." She saw recent images of a newly renovated apartment. "What's this?" she asked. "My apartment's ready. Guess I'll vacate your house in a week." 
Her mouth asked, "Are you moving away?" while her heart whispered, Are you leaving me? Did I hurt you? For the first time, her heart wanted someone else besides her husband—even if just friendship, it was new for her.

Chapter 15: Vikram left Pooja & House: Arjun Secret Plan in motion

Continnuation

Pooja heart heavy with Vikram's decision to move out. The void gnawed at her as her mind replaying his care—the forehead kiss, his slightest attention to her details.

 Meanwhile, Arjun visited the hospital. The doctor's voice was grave: "You need surgery to prevent nerve damage from the cancer cells—otherwise, your legs could become immovable. If unsuccessful, this might be your last day. Call your wife." Arjun's response was cold, "I'm divorcing her. She found love elsewhere; I have no one." Shocked, the doctor pressed, "Without surgery, you'll need support forever—limping, even with only five months left. Inform her; seeing you like this might change her heart, or act it to make her understand." Arjun thought, What a curse—why can't I die peacefully? He muttered, "Thank you, doctor," and left, refusing to share his burden.

He met Anjali for counseling, their talk normal, but outside, he resolved, If she sees me struggling, she won't leave. I must hasten this. He visited his old boss, a startup supporter, pitching to sell his company completely to him. The boss admired the creativity his products had at the startup but warned, "They need R&D and marketing, or they'll fail." Impressed, he asked the price. Arjun quoted 35 lakhs. "Why so low?" the boss asked. "Just my investment and hospital expenses," Arjun admitted, revealing his condition and requesting discretion. "I wanted to Prove myself a successful businessman, so im going to enact like i earned this money not by selling but with a revenue, once i acted this before the people i want i will  ransfer full power to you, but assign someone as your proxy now, acting as partner." "Who?" the boss asked. "Anjali, my friend," Arjun said. 

The boss agreed, and Arjun set his plan in motion.

At the office, Pooja struggled to focus, her mind flooded with Vikram. His love in such a short time contrasted with Arjun's sudden dismissal. Now he's leaving— why do I feel i want his love? It's forbidden, illicit, improper, but why does my heart crave it? she wondered. Just deep friendship, she told herself, but how sinful for a wife to think of another man. Her work stalled. Vikram noticed her distraction, thinking, My move is working.

Elsewhere, Arjun met a lawyer. "I'm filing for divorce," he said. "Why?" the lawyer asked. "My wife's cheating." "Proof?" "Not yet—collect it. File under adultery." His motive was clear: hurt her, push her away, make her hate him, all while preparing for a big action later. Mutual divorces take time, labeling adultery on him wont work as pooja wont choose it even if he does, but he can claim her, mock her , ridicule her, this would make her hate me. Filing divorce on adultery works even quicker he thought.

That evening, Vikram and Pooja were home. Arjun was out. Freshened up, Pooja sought Vikram for a talk. They discussed the office IT crash causing havoc. Vikram, seeing her distraction in office, asked, "You've been off all day—what's bugging you, Pooja? I'm here." 

He caught her hand. "Nothing," she said as Arjun entered silently, asking for dinner, then pretended to sleep but hid to spy.

Post-dinner, alone again, Pooja asked, "Are you sure you're moving out?" Vikram nodded, "Yes, what reason do I have to stay? Work's incomplete. Sunday, I've planned a housewarming—be there!" "Okay," she said. "Don't feel bad—I won't invite Arjun." She didn't question, replying, "If that's what you want, I'm okay." Vikram added, "Sunday's my birthday too. Pooja said I know, i plan to buy you a gift. Don't buy a gift—I'll ask for one." Virkam said. 

"What?" she asked. "Day after tomorrow, I'm moving. Let's discuss it tomorrow. I won't come to office after dropping you, have to look after final work at house —wait till evening to know." He built suspense, ensuring it lingered in her mind.

Next morning, Arjun was standing before mirror in bedroom while pooja came there he said , "I'm partnering with a client—funds next week." Pooja said, "oh, glad you remember me." Alarmed this could shift her focus from Vikram, he mocked, "I'm not telling you—I'm practicing for a meeting. before mirror" Hurt, she withdrew.

That evening, Arjun hid again to spy. Vikram began, "Pooja, you know I love you." 

"Yes," she replied. 

"I should end this with respect and love," he said. 

Her heart tightened. "Why? Can't we stay good friends?"

 Vikram continued, "I know, but I'm causing you turmoil. My craving to have you disturbed me; now it's bugging you." 

Silent, she listened. "For one day, be my date—like a real lover. Forget all, be a kid. Morning, temple; housewarming after; noon, lunch at a luxury hotel; evening, beach walk; night, your guesthouse rooftop cake cutting—my wish. If you're in, I'm gifted." 

Torn, she couldn't say yes or no. "I'll think, but I'll meet you Sunday for the housewarming." 

Take time pooja "Decide and tell me by Saturday night," he said. 

She rushed off with a "Good night."

Next day dawned with a quiet tension as Vikram rose before the first light, his resolve hardened. He moved methodically through the house, packing his belongings into carefully labeled boxes—clothes folded with precision, books stacked, and personal mementos tucked away, each item a silent farewell to the life he'd briefly shared with Pooja and Arjun. 

The clink of glass and rustle of fabric filled the early morning as he loaded his car, the trunk groaning under the weight of his departure. Stepping inside, he found Arjun sipping coffee, his expression unreadable.

 "I'm moving out," Vikram announced, his voice steady. Arjun nodded, "Okay," his mind calculating the emotional impact this distance would have on Pooja, a calculated blow to push her further from him. Seeing this as an opportunity, Arjun silently committed to a cold treatment—severing the routine of picks and drops, erasing the warmth of shared rides. 

That morning, Vikram drove Pooja to the office, his hands gripping the wheel tightly, the air between them thick with unspoken words. "I'm off for three days—manage it," he said curtly, his eyes avoiding hers as he dropped her off, the car door's slam echoing his departure.

The following days unraveled into a tormenting void for Pooja. Without Vikram's steady presence, she felt unmoored—demotivated, her work slipping through her fingers, disturbed by the silence where his laughter once lived.

Forced to navigate cabs through Chennai's chaotic streets, she missed his companionship keenly. Evenings grew colder as Arjun, entrenched in his plan, spoke animatedly to friends on the phone, his voice a distant hum that excluded her. He made sure she listens to anjali voice randomly.

He pressured her to cook—chicken sizzling in the pan, eggs cracking into the skillet—like a hired worker, never offering a word of thanks or sharing the meal, his avoidance a deliberate knife twist. This relentless neglect intensified her thoughts of Vikram, his care a haunting contrast. 

One evening, the dam broke—Pooja's voice cracked as she burst out, "Why are you doing this? Why the disrespect?" Her eyes searched his, pleading for an answer. Arjun, his face a mask of indifference, shrugged, "You're just overreacting," and walked away, leaving her standing in the kitchen, tears stinging her eyes.

In morning at office, Pooja eyes looked at empty table of Vikram, while in nights she remember how good vikram was to her, she really missed the chats and talks in car, which seemed like she never experieced with arjun.

Saturday arrived, a day heavy with longing as Pooja moved through the house like a ghost, each corner whispering memories of Vikram's closeness—the gentle hum of their drives, the warmth of their evening chats, the quiet love and compassion he'd shown her. His absence carved a hollow in her chest, a void where his presence had once steadied her. The weight of it pressed on her as she sat alone, her mind replaying his tender gestures—the way he'd chosen her saree, the sincerity in his apology. Her hand trembled, fingers hesitating over her phone, the screen blurring with unshed tears. 
Finally, with a shaky breath, she typed, her heart pounding, "What should I wear for a date?!!" The message sent, a leap into the forbidden, her pulse racing as she awaited his reply, torn between guilt and an aching need she could no longer deny.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 16: Pooja's Secret Date with Vikram: While Arjun records them [18+]

Vikram's mobile pinged with a soft tone in the stillness of Friday night, .

 It was Pooja: What should I wear for the date? 

A slow smile spread across his face as he typed back, Will it be by my choice? 

Her reply came swiftly, It's your day, I will comply for you. 

Emboldened, Vikram texted, Yellow saree. I'll pick you up at 7 AM. Good night, my love. Ten minutes later, 

he sent a detailed schedule: 

Don't forget the yellow saree. Morning temple, followed by housewarming, lunch at Park Luxury Hotel, evening beach walk, later in night at your guesthouse rooftop cake cut. Pooja's response glowed on his screen: I noted it. Good night, my love. 

Vikram's heart raced as he texted, You called me love? She replied, As a promise, I'm your one-day love, till tomorrow night. At 2 AM, Arjun, restless and spying from the shadows of the hallway, caught the faint glow of Pooja's smile as she typed. His stomach churned. Silently, he snatched her phone—knowing the passcode—and scrolled through the messages. With trembling hands, he took screenshots and recorded a video, muttering, Proof for the adultery case. He slipped back to bed, his mind a storm of resolve.

Morning broke on Sunday, Pooja rose early, her heart aflutter with nervous excitement. She adorned herself in the yellow saree, its vibrant folds accentuating her grace, and applied minimal makeup, her hands steady despite the turmoil within. 

She informed Arjun, "I have early work at the office."

 He raised an eyebrow, "Sunday office?" 

"Yes, important client work," she lied, her voice betraying a slight tremor. 

Downstairs, at precisely 7 AM, Vikram's car purred to a stop. She stepped out, her face lighting up with a radiant smile, "Happy birthday, Vikram!" Meeting him after three days felt like an eternity—his absence had carved a deep ache she hadn't fully grasped until now. 

At 9 AM, he drove her to his new apartment. She gasped at the modern decor—sleek furniture, warm lighting, and thoughtful interior touches. "You have good taste," she said, her voice tinged with admiration. 

Then, noticing the silence, she asked, "You said there's a housewarming—why is no one here?" 

Vikram's eyes softened as he took her hand, leading her inside.

 "I invited only you. You're the only important person to me right now." 

Her breath caught as he guided her to a small ritual pooja.

 Afterward, they cooked sweets together in the gleaming kitchen, feeding each other with laughter, the air thick with unspoken intimacy. 

Vikram then led her to the bedroom, he said my bedroom has secret, he clicked a button and wardbore hidden room cupboard opens, the cupboard, revealing a box brimming with her photos, lost objects, and love symbols—scarves she'd left behind, a hairpin, a scribbled note. He treastured it like gold, with dates on it notes on it a diary full of his poems on her.  Hows my bedroom secret, vikram asked.  Overwhelmed, tears welled in Pooja's eyes. "Why do you love me so much?" she whispered. "I don't know," Vikram replied, his voice raw. "I just do." She smiled through her tears, a mix of gratitude and guilt.

Meanwhile, Arjun, expcted their precense for his scheme, waited at Park Luxury Hotel. He bribed a staff member to install a hidden camera, securing the WhatsApp screenshots and Pooja's Sunday lie as evidence. He sent men to Vikram's apartment, but they missed a clear shot—only capturing Vikram and Pooja entering and locking the door for three hours. Enough for adultery, Arjun thought, though he lingered in the lobby, placing another recorder. One more camera needed. Soon, Pooja's laughter and Vikram's flirtatious murmurs filled the air as they arrived. Vikram leaned close, his hand brushing her waist as they sat. The waiter, complicit, placed the hidden camera. They discussed food, Vikram saying, "Pooja, I never thought you'd come on a date with me. It's been a thrill ride—hope you never forget this day." Pooja smiled, "How could I? The bedroom Secrets—I won't forget it for my life, i never experienced it elsewhere, not even arjun gave me the fullness." A waiter interrupted, and they resumed, peppering "my love" into every sentence. Arjun, hidden, felt each word like a blade, so they had sex in the room, bedroom secret?  his disease paling against this silent agony.

Evening brought a beach walk, their hands entwined, hearts laid bare in conversation. Vikram rented a horse, sitting behind Pooja, their bodies colliding with each jolt. Arjun, using a proxy, recorded it, his resolve hardening. Knowing the guesthouse was next, he drove there, hiding intentionally on the rooftop garden. 

At 8 PM, Vikram's jeep rolled up. Spotting Arjun's car at a distance, he suspected spying but couldn't locate him. Inside, Pooja arranged the rooftop table, then blindfolded Vikram with her hands, whispering, "Happy birthday, my love." 

"Thanks, darling," he replied, as they fed each other cake. 

He pulled her onto his lap on a cushion, saying, "Pooja, thanks for the day. This is enough for me to die peacefully." She slapped his face lightly, "You will live long, with the love you deserve."

Their eyes locked, and Vikram asked, "Be frank—what if you'd seen my love before Arjun? Would you have chosen me?" "Maybe," she admitted, "but your love is pure—I can't reciprocate it." 

He kissed her lips; she turned, and it landed on her cheek. Unsettled, Arjun watched from the shadows.

As they prepared to leave the guesthouse rooftop, the air still thick with the scent of cake and the fading warmth of their shared moment, Vikram's sharp eyes caught a flicker of movement in the shadows. Arjun emerged from the garden, his silhouette stark against the dim streetlights, his face a mask of anguish and betrayal. 

Realizing he'd been seen, Vikram's pulse quickened with a mix of triumph and dread. Seizing the moment, his mind reeled let me show him who is the master her, whose women she is , he gripped Pooja's wrist, his voice low and urgent, "Come with me," as he dragged her toward the bedroom, the door clicking shut behind them with a finality that echoed in her chest. 

"I want to feel your lips, your love once," he pleaded, his eyes searching hers, a desperate edge to his tone that betrayed his longing. Pooja, caught in the whirlwind of her own emotions, leaned in hesitantly, pressing a brief, trembling kiss to his lips before pulling back, her breath shallow, her mind screaming with guilt. But Vikram, emboldened by her proximity, persisted, his hands framing her face as he drew her into a deep, passionate kiss. 

Her resistance melted under the intensity, her body yielding to a 20-minute embrace that felt like a surrender to a tide she couldn't control—her heart racing with forbidden desire, yet aching with the weight of her vows.

The embrace shifted as Vikram's arms encircled her from behind, his hands sliding boldly to her breasts, a possessive hunger in his touch. With a single, decisive push, he dropped her saree, the fabric pooling at her feet as she stumbled onto the bed, her breath catching in a gasp of shock. Vikram shed his shirt, his movements swift and deliberate, climbing atop her with a fervor that pressed their chests together, her blouse straining as her breasts met his skin in a crushing 10-minute kiss. 

The fabric gave way as he unbuttoned it with a swift pull, her bouncy curves spilling free, exposed and vulnerable. Panic surged through Pooja, her mind a battlefield of longing and shame. "Not today," she gasped, her voice breaking, tears welling as she grappled with the betrayal of her own body's response. 

Vikram paused, a knowing smile curling his lips as he registered her words—not "I don't want" or "we shouldn't," just "not today"—a loophole that fueled his hope. "Not today?" he pressed gently, his voice a mix of desire and restraint. 

She managed a faint smile, fumbling to button her blouse, her hands shaking as she tried to reclaim her dignity. "I mean we shouldn't," she whispered, her tone laced with regret, reaching out to shake him gently, as if to wake him from his fervor. Leaning in, she kissed him again, a tender, apologetic press of lips, "This is all I can do—please understand me," she pleaded, her voice cracking with the weight of her torn heart. Vikram returned the kiss, his touch softening, "That's okay—I know you're here already," he murmured, his words a bittersweet acknowledgment of her conflicted surrender.
Outside, Arjun stood frozen in the second floor the recorder slipping from his trembling hands to the floor, forgotten. The sight of Pooja and Vikram—her yielding, his advance—unfolded like a dagger to his soul, each moment a fresh wound of betrayal. His heart ached with a visceral pain, far beyond the physical torment of his cancer. No longer driven to record, he sank to his knees, tears streaming silently down his face, his plan crumbling under the weight of his love and despair. The evidence he'd sought to justify his divorce now felt meaningless—her infidelity was real, but so was his role in pushing her there. I did this, he thought, his mind a storm of guilt and resolve, knowing his cruel end was near, not just from disease but from the loss of the woman he'd sworn to protect.

Chapter 17: Anjali's Entry & Arjun unleashing his scheme

Continuation

As Arjun rose from the floor outside the room where vikram and pooja was seen in an uncompromising position, the sting of betrayal still raw in his chest, he forced his emotions into a steel cage, his mind snapping into action. Wiping tears from his face, he stumbled out of the guesthouse, his steps heavy with resolve. He slid into his car, the engine roaring to life as he gripped the wheel, his breath ragged. 

Dialing Anjali, his voice was clipped, "Hi, mam, I need help. I've advanced my plans—can you come to my house?" She responded warmly, "Yes, brother, I'll arrive in 20 minutes." The call ended, and he sped off, his heart a battlefield of love and vengeance.

Back inside the guesthouse, Pooja stood in the bedroom, her hands trembling as she adjusted her disheveled yellow saree, the fabric clinging awkwardly to her frame. Shame burned her cheeks—Vikram, a man not her husband, had tasted her lips, seen her half-nude, his hands exploring where only Arjun should have ventured. Guilt warred with a shy thrill, her mind replaying the intensity of their embrace, the boundary she'd nearly crossed. She buttoned her blouse with shaky fingers, smoothing her hair as Vikram waited outside, both dressing properly to mask the storm within.

As they climbed into the Thar jeep, Vikram's thoughts spiraled. 

Something's off—Arjun peeked at us twice, hiding like a shadow. How did I miss it? Was I too lost in Pooja? The realization gnawed at him. 

This second sighting, unlike the first, didn't spark confrontation or shame—instead, a dark urge to cuckold Arjun with his actions surged within him. 

Why would a husband watch silently? 

Does he enjoy this? Doesn't he love her—or is he eyeing someone else, planning to break away?

Questions battered his mind, but he kept them buried, deciding, I won't let Pooja know I saw Arjun. Not yet. 

Beside him, Pooja sat lost in thought, tears slipping down her cheeks. Vikram glanced over, concern etching his face. "Why are you crying, Pooja?"

 She wiped her eyes, her voice breaking, "Maybe your love is pure, but Arjun has no idea I'm with you. It's cheating, Vikram—I feel awful about myself." He reached for her hand, his tone soothing, "It's not cheating, Pooja. You're just starting to reciprocate my love. You never kissed me—I pulled you.

Don't feel bad." She pulled her hand back, drawing a firm line. "Okay, as you wished, I've been your one-day love. You kissed me, got more than you wanted. Let's stop here. From tomorrow, just office friends—no personal meets, no deep talks. I'll fix things with Arjun.

 Hopefully, that resolves it." Her gaze fixed outside, avoiding his eyes. Vikram nodded silently, his mind churning with other suspicions as the jeep rumbled toward home.

At the house, a car parked at the gate caught their eye. Vikram recognized it—Anjali's, from outside her clinic. Pooja's stomach dropped, panic flaring as she decided to enter with Vikram. 

Inside, Anjali and Arjun sat on the sofa, laughing over something. 

As they stepped in, Arjun's voice was casual, "Hey, hi. Ahh, Pooja, this is Ms. Anjali, my friend, a client. She felt bored, so I invited her. 

She's my wife," he introduced to Anjali.

 Anjali smiled, "Hi, Pooja, he's said a lot about you." 

Vikram stood beside Pooja, and Anjali pointed, "And you... I've met you before—you asked about Arjun, right?" 

Vikram nodded, "Yes, I saw him at your place, inquired if he had problems."

 "No issues," Anjali said lightly. 

Pooja's world froze—meeting a woman rumored to be her husband's lover, brought home while she was away, felt like a slap. 

Vikram's mind raced, Impossible—he arrived 10 minutes ago. How's this drama staged? Something's fishy. "

Okay, I'll send her off," Arjun said, escorting Anjali to the gate with a goodbye. 

Back in the hall, Arjun headed to the bedroom.

 Pooja blocked him, her voice sharp, "Answer me!" 

"What?" he snapped. "Is that not your lover?" 

she accused, her words slipping out. 

"Watch your words," Arjun warned. How dare you to accuse a business women after all you should thank her for helping me out, unlike you just work for some random IT Job, have you ever seen my side of struggle, if not for Anjali, i dont know what would have me today .

Pooja's anger erupted, "Oh, you forget it right? Am i useless and that Anjali is your sole helper in your business. Have you forget how you started its all with my money,

You want a startup, money, love, no kids—just sex? What am I? 

Now, with your new client, you're slipping behind her, smiling at her—why not me?"

Arjun's tone turned cold, "Listen, Pooja, I'm signing a deal with her tomorrow—a crore business deal. I'll give you 30 lakhs: 20 you gave for me im returning it, 10 is interest. 

Basically, You've done nothing, other than helping money with im settling that , you are nothing before what she gonna do and you have gust to compare with her. Know your place and keep quiet."

Enraged, Pooja dragged him to the sofa, shoving him down. "What did you say?" Why didnt you show this face before? where were you when you proposed me is that all acting?

A fight ensued. 

Arjun retorted, "I'm telling the truth. Back when I loved, I was blind—you looked good, I fell for it. Now my network's growing. Thing may change. 

 We might've loved a Toyota, but people upgrade to BMW later." 

Pooja's voice rose, "What? So she's your love?" 

"No, she's my new partner. Like i married you for money and you supported me, she's supporting me on paper as a company partner. 

She can enter my company, but not here—I won't allow it." 

Arjun sneered, "Who are you to stop her? This isn't your house. You need my approval to stay.

 Keep quiet, or wait i will surprise you with soem thing. Arjun went and come back after 15 mins. 

 He fetched a suitcase with him and said. "Stay if you drop the tantrums; otherwise, leave.

Vikram who watche these, grabbed her hand pooja come with me he dont deserve you, how arrogant his blood boiled. 

Pooja left his hand and said, im not done vikram he is showing his real face, if he had show his true face i would not be in a mess like this. He has to answer me. 

Answer bullshit, arjun said, You only have t wo option stay here quiet, i will consider giving you a share in company, or move out if you want trouble. 

See practically no one will take you back, you have an  unmarried sister, you father will ask you to adjust, you have no real friends here, now you witnessed my self just be silent thats your only option you havve no place to go , you have no shame just admit and take this things enter your room, sorry sorry not my bedroom, stay where vikram stayed you are just a guest from nowon, may be, stay good i can shower you some love if you are lucky, if im on mood. 

Pooja in tears turned to vikram and asked: Vikram said i will 

Arjun said: Vikram can take you for a week—he'll kick you out. Who'd want a troublesome ex-wife? Vikram, get her a women's hostel—I'll pay for a few weeks." Pooja slapped him, tears streaming,

 "Vikram's far better—he truly loves me." 

Arjun mocked, "Oh, your lover boy—I forgot. 

Vikram slapped him you dont have the rights to tarnish her, yes i love her , so what, im sincere i care for her not a cheap person like you,

Stop it guys, See Pooja is not important anymore; I'm tired. If you have shame, go out; if not, stay." Im generously giving her option, after everything came on table.

His words pierced her pride. "Vikram, will you leave me abandoned?" she cried. 

"Till my life ends, I won't," he vowed. 

"You'll regret this," she spat, storming out with Vikram.

The Thar jeep raced to Vikram's apartment, his mind reeling. Arjun watched us, stayed silent, flaunted his affair, and threw her to me—what game is this? 

Pooja sobbed beside him, muttering, "I should tell my father." 

Vikram advised, "Don't complicate things—let's watch tomorrow carefully." 

At the apartment, he helped with her luggage, offering consoling words. Unable to sleep in the bedroom, she leaned on him. Vikram held her, letting her rest on his shoulder. "As I always said, my arms are for you. Whatever happens, I'm here," he whispered.

She drifted off, unaware of when sleep claimed her. Morning light revealed Vikram's rugged face, asleep like a child, their bodies entwined from the night, her yellow saree disheveled, kungum smudged on his cheek. He woke, startled, "Sorry, I was worried, so I stayed." 
"It's okay," Pooja murmured. They stepped out, only to face a shocking sight awaiting them.

[PELURI]

great beginning bro!...the narration is fluid and effort less...good command of the language....promising endless ecstacy...keep situations real and reactions natural and grounded...easy to connect...built up steam slow fire...sure to blast...pictures would add glitter....good luck

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 18 - Arjun's deal Divorce me on Adultery

The morning light of Monday, filtered softly through the curtains of Vikram's apartment, rousing the exhausted pair at 11:00 AM. Their sleep had been deep, born of emotional exhaustion, their bodies entwined from the night's consoling closeness. Vikram's rugged face, softened in sleep like a child's, bore the smudged kungum from Pooja's saree, now disheveled and clinging to her frame in chaotic folds. He stirred, waking with a start, his voice thick with concern, "Sorry, I was worried, so I stayed." 

Pooja offered a faint, weary smile, her heart still heavy as they rose. Stepping out of the bedroom, their appearance—her saree askew, his cheek marked with her kungum—hinted at an intimacy that hadn't fully occurred, a silent accusation hanging in the air. 

Their shock was immediate as they froze—Arjun stood in the living room, a camera in hand, its red light blinking as it recorded them.

Pooja's voice trembled with disbelief, "What are you doing? Are you mad?"

Arjun raised a hand, his tone eerily calm, "Calm down, Pooja. I'm here for some peace. 

I know you did nothing, but what if this clip goes out?" Vikram's rage erupted, his fist connecting with Arjun's jaw, sending him crashing to the floor. Pooja lunged, grabbing Vikram's arm, "Stop!" She turned to Arjun, her eyes blazing, "You're crossing the limit. I get it—you want someone else, you threw me away, your goal is fullfilled already. What do you want now?, you event want me to drown in shame" 

Vikram snatched the phone, attempting to delete the video, but Arjun smirked, "Calm down, it's on my drive. If I don't leave safely, it'll go public automatically." Vikram raised his arm again, but Pooja held him back. "Okay, calm down," Arjun said, dusting himself off. "I have a better solution for all." Still fuming, Pooja snapped, "Tell me what you want and get out." Arjun handed her a check for 30 lakhs, then revealed a photo—proxy signatures of Anjali and him with some investors a drama his ex-boss accepeted, timestamped 8 AM at a grand hotel, surrounded by investors from a big circle, launching a new venture. "I came to show this," he said, his voice cold. "See how real big people are here. I'm growing into a big league. 

Back when Vikram stayed with us, I planned a lot—I thought he'd naturally take you, but he didn't. I stole his key, made a duplicate. Didn't know it'd help today. 

I peeped at you two, sleeping tired, but the public won't believe it—they'll call it an affair. He laughed uncontrollably raging pooja and vikram. 

Vikram said you have been planning for a long time? Arjun said yes, i want a divorce or i want her to cheat on me so that she will move away leaving me for good for my better future, why would i accept you to come with us on travel, but you guys did nothing, on her birthday night i purposely let her with you but you guys stayed getnle, what should i do, my goodness pooja bombarded with questions last night else i would have to streched the drama. 

My goal's clear: I'm moving to a better world—you can't come. Your level might be Vikram's or even lower; mine's different. I want a quick divorce. This video's enough for adultery grounds and i can shame you. My new partner has links, but filing it that way could hurt your sister—no alliances for your family, and no one, not even Vikram, Vikrams family could advice him to leave you, so he might will hesitate to keep you. 

So, its better you file divorce against me on adultery, take this 30 lakh advance, no hard feelings. It works better for both. its should be right way to put it, i brought this so i wrap it for good"

Pooja's world crumbled, her voice a whisper, "What does this mean?" Arjun's smile was bitter, "Think well. It means nothing between us. I'm leaving for a better world, maybe. This is the only deal." He stormed out, leaving silence in his wake. Pooja stood frozen, silent all day, her mind a whirl of shock and despair. Vikram remained a rock beside her, his voice steady, "We'll work through this. Now you know the answer—I'm here. Let's sail together. He's not worthy of your trust. Divorcing him legally is good—he's okay with adultery for a quick split. Once you're out, I'll bash him, break his legs." Pooja met his eyes, her own wet with tears, "I've lost trust in humans. If he files with that video, shame will fall on my family. 

Yesterday, I felt bad for doing things behind him, i almost cheated him, i felt really bad—it hurts when you kissed me, i pictured arjun for a moment, my heart aches and i cried for hours i even break with you said drawing lines with you all for him, yea im not clean but i had only him—but he's fooled me he had been cheating me behind and been with me for money, for years. I never want to see him again. She cried" 

Vikram took her hand, his grip firm, "You'll never carry his memory. My love will overshadow this betrayal—I promise." She collapsed into his embrace, sobbing against his chest, the weight of her choices sinking in.
The following day,  Vikram and Pooja met a lawyer, filing a divorce case against Arjun on adultery grounds. Two days later, Thursday, Arjun appeared in court, spending money to expedite the process. He admitted the crime, offering the 30 lakh settlement. The judgment was postponed for a week. Pooja, unable to bear his face, stormed out, refusing to inform her family—by mutual agreement with Arjun and Vikram, who both hid their reasons (Arjun to avoid delay, Vikram for control). The week was torturous for her, her face etched with guilt that no outing—temples, parks, movies with Vikram—could erase. She was mentally disturbed, a shadow of herself. Vikram, notified by the lawyer of the next court date, prepared her, his presence a lifeline amid the storm.

Chapter 19 - Tears in the Moonlight?

The evening before the court verdict, hung heavy with anticipation as Pooja turned to Vikram, her voice soft but resolute. "Take me to the guesthouse one last time," she said, her eyes distant. "That was the best place I ever had—where my love with Arjun started, and now, where it ends. Maybe the rooftop can give me some peace." Vikram nodded, understanding the weight of her request. 

The guesthouse belonged to mutual friends—Arjun's acquaintance, whose wife was Pooja's college mate—ensuring no key demands. He drove her there, the Thar jeep's hum a quiet companion to her turmoil. On the rooftop, under a sky streaked with fading light, Pooja's composure shattered. Tears streamed down her face as she cried out, her voice raw, "Why did you decide my life with Arjun? Why break me like this?" Her shouts echoed into the night, a plea to the universe. Vikram enveloped her in a tight hug, his arms a shield against her pain, whispering consoling words until her sobs subsided.

Minutes later, a soft knock broke the silence—a parcel delivery, thoughtfully arranged by Vikram. Pooja's surprise melted into gratitude as he unpacked a meal, and they sat under the moonlight, sharing food that eased her tension. She sighed, "Tomorrow, everything ends." Vikram shook his head, his gaze steady. "No, tomorrow is the actual beginning. You restart your life with me. I don't care how long it takes—I'll wait for you. 

Pooja remained silent she was thinking something, vikram continued

Maybe it's destiny. Remember that day I gave you a lift?

 It was strange, unusual, but I waited because I saw Arjun leave suddenly. Something felt off. That was beginning for us, My goodness on after other it led me to confess my love, and all this happened for a reason. Today, you're with me. At least you have me. Imagine if I hadn't picked you—what Arjun had in mind, that bastard."

Pooja met his eyes, a faint smile breaking through. "I'm glad you're here. Yes, it's for a reason. But maybe I should move back to Coimbatore, take a break, settle there. Chennai's given me lessons." Vikram took her hand, his voice firm yet gentle. "You should search for happiness where you lost it—not leave Chennai. Prove yourself here. I'm not asking you to earn crores like him. You don't need to live for others—just live, live for yourself, with love." Her smile widened, and she kissed his cheek. "I'm blessed to have you by my side." They talked of random things—memories, dreams—until the hour grew late. "Let's sleep here," Pooja suggested, and they entered the room where their near-cheating had begun. Cuddling came naturally now, a routine born of shared solace, though sleep eluded her with the verdict looming.

Vikram sensed her restlessness and pulled her close, his voice a soothing balm. "Pooja, you are my world—my everything. I'll take care of you, shield you from every storm. This verdict won't define you; it'll free you. I'm here, always, to hold you up, to love you through it all." 



His words wrapped around her like a warm, unshakable promise, a lifeline that eased the jagged edges of her fears, though the weight of tomorrow's verdict lingered like a shadow in her heart. Moved by the depth of Vikram's devotion—his steady presence a stark contrast to Arjun's betrayal—Pooja's lips found his, their tongues entwining in a deep, heated kiss that stirred a torrent of conflicting emotions within her. 

The passion flared, igniting a flicker of readiness, a longing to surrender to the comfort he offered, and Vikram, caught in the same fervor, shed his shirt, his hands trembling with reverence as he lowered her nightgown, revealing her bra. With a gentle slide of the strap, her full breasts spilled free, and he kissed them tenderly, his touch a silent plea for her trust. Yet, as the heat surged, Pooja's body tensed, her breath hitching with a sudden surge of guilt and resolve—she was ready, her heart aching to let go, but the verdict loomed, a final judgment she needed to face with a clean conscience. "Wait, wait, Vikram, I'm not ready yet. I'm sorry," she stammered, her voice breaking with the conflict of desire and duty, tears prickling as she wrestled with the urge to cleanse her past before embracing this new love. Vikram paused, his warm smile a beacon of understanding, his eyes reflecting acceptance rather than disappointment. "It's okay," he murmured, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead, a gesture that rebuilt the fragile trust between them. She hugged him tightly, drawing strength from his embrace, and kissed him once more—a gentle, trusting seal of their bond—before they drifted to sleep in each other's arms, the night's quiet embrace holding her as she clung to the hope of tomorrow's redemption.
The next morning, dawned with a tense stillness as Pooja, Vikram, and Arjun arrived at the court. The officials informed them their case was listed after 1 PM, leaving a stretch of anxious waiting. Vikram, eager to ease Pooja's nerves, offered to get her a water bottle and stepped out to his car, leaving her in the lawyer's office. As he entered a nearby hotel to grab the bottle, his eyes caught Anjali sipping coffee with a handsome man, their laughter filling the air. He initially ignored them, but an old man at the next table leaned in, his voice a hushed gossip, "See that woman? My son said he will be proposing her today—maybe he's her would-be if she admits." Vikram's jaw tightened, a surge of anger rising. Bitch—how many people will she toy with? She's already broken Pooja's life, and now this bullshit, he muttered under his breath, his fists clenching. The revelation churned his thoughts—something felt off, a tangled web he couldn't unravel. He resisted confronting her, not wanting to stir trouble and darken Pooja's day, but the pieces didn't fit. Should I tell her? No— i should not confuse her she is already broken and it was Anjali - Arjun mess to sort. Calming himself, he grabbed the water, determined to stand by Pooja no matter what, his resolve steeling against the chaos swirling around them.

Chapter 20 - Vikrams close to truth, but its too late

Continuation 

As Vikram returned with the water bottle, Pooja's anxious eyes met his, her voice soft with relief. "Where did you go?" she asked. He smiled, holding up the bottle, "Just to get this—you might starve." 

She pinched his arm playfully, a fleeting lightness in her tone, "Don't go away—stay with me." Moments later, the lawyers called them in, and the court proceedings began. By 2:30 PM, the judgment arrived—Pooja and Arjun were divorced. A radiant smile broke across Pooja's face, and she threw her arms around Vikram right there in the courtroom, her joy unbridled. 

Arjun, watching from a distance, offered a warm smile—the kind only those who knew the truth of his sacrifice could fully grasp. 

Anjali, arriving at his side, took his hand gently. "Arjun, now everything is done. You should go ahead with the treatment. I've requested the doctor to operate tonight—we may not know the result. Give them a goodbye at least now." 

Arjun shook his head, his voice firm despite the strain. "No, Anjali. She should see me as a villain till my last breath. 

Hide my condition from them. Let her live peacefully—Vikram will take care of her." 

Anjali hugged him tightly, her voice breaking, "I've never seen a human like you. 

Pooja might regret this if she knew the truth—it's better as you say." Vikram and Pooja, witnessing the embrace, misread it as intimacy, their expressions hardening.

Vikram stormed over, dragging Arjun out of the courtroom. 

"I want to break your legs, but I should thank you for leaving her to me. 

You don't know how to treasure her, but I will. Maybe I should tell you something," 

he whispered in Arjun's ear, 

"I just saw your love, Anjali, charmingly with a young man opposite the court in that hotel.

 Lol—a cheater gets a cheater."

 Pooja called out, "Vikram, come—don't waste our time." 

She avoided looking at Arjun or Anjali, turning away decisively.

 Vikram lingered, snatching Arjun's phone. "Now I need to delete the clippings. Never try to blackmail her or harm my family—my family, meaning Pooja and hers, is mine now. Password, please." Arjun plucked the phone, typed it in, and Vikram took it back.

 A folder labeled "Pooja - Vikram" appeared, brimming with files, but Arjun swiftly reclaimed it, deleting everything instantly. 

"It's all gone—check now," he said. Vikram felt a flicker of doubt—something fishy lingered why many files all same or duplicate —but seeing the folder empty, he let it go, satisfied for now. 

With legal help, Pooja and Vikram went to Arjun's house, collecting her files, certificates, and belongings. Pooja tore some documents, declaring, "There should not be one thing left to remind me of him."

Minutes later, Arjun arrived with Anjali. As Pooja moved to burn the papers, Arjun stopped her, his voice strained, "I'll do it. Take only what you want—what if the fire causes an accident here? 

If you must dump them, do it outside."

Pooja left the papers, her resolve unshaken.

 Vikram noticed a strange struggle in Arjun—his legs limping slightly, though Arjun masked it with effort. As the packing finished, Pooja offered a final goodbye to the place she'd spent two years, a tear glistening before a smile emerged as she grasped Vikram's hand. 

They started the car, Vikram catching a fleeting, unfamiliar face nearby, though his focus stayed on Pooja. 

After the Thar's sound faded, Arjun sank onto the sofa, crying uncontrollably. A reassuring hand rested on his shoulder—Anjali's fiancé, the doctor, Vikram had seen at the hotel but failed to recognize. 

Moved by Arjun's selfless sacrifice for Pooja's future, the fiancé had come to prepare him for surgery. 

Back at Vikram's apartment, Pooja arranged her things with enthusiasm, her spirit lifting. 

Vikram, delighted, suggested, "Let's go somewhere fun tonight—places you haven't visited." 

Pooja smiled, recalling, "A good friend once told me to search happiness where I lost it. I'm beginning my life where I thought I lost it. Take me to the guesthouse—I need a quiet dinner, in the moonlight, with my love." Vikram's face lit up. 

"With my love?" he asked. Pooja cupped his face, "Yes, you are my love. I waited for this day to come clean, so you won't feel I'm torn between anyone. I'm here just for you." He hugged her, kissing her cheek, and they bought food ingredients, snacks, a carrom board, and puzzle cards for the night.

The Thar arrived at the guesthouse, its emptiness striking—no one spied on them, though Vikram found it oddly quiet, while Pooja noticed nothing amiss. Vikram couldn't shake his unease, scanning the garden with his phone, noting spots where three could hide.

At the hospital, 

Arjun underwent tests, awaiting for the food

At the guesthouse - the rooftop, 

As she cooked, Vikram helped preparing for the new dishes, 

 At the hospital,

Food arrived from hospital canteen, the nurses arranged table for him to eat, 

At the guesthouse - the rooftop, 

Vikram and Pooja arranged a moonlight dinner. 

At the hospital, 

Arjun was fed with plain rice kanji

At the guesthouse - the rooftop, 

they ate biryani, as vikram feed her with love

At the hospital, 

The nurse gave him a tonic to drink 

At the guesthouse - the rooftop,

Pooja feed her ice cream, but vikram licked her finger sensually . 

 At the hospital,

Arjun's heart with Pooja—Live peacefully—I don't know if I'll pass this, but I want you happy.

At the guesthouse - the rooftop,

Vikram pulled Pooja onto his lap, hugging her. "You're finally mine." 

Pooja shouted to the sky, "Finally, I've found my true love—bless us with a life of joy and healing!" 

At the hospital,

The chief doctor announced, "Operation in an hour."

At the guesthouse - the rooftop,

They laughed, sharing naughty chats and a compatibility check, Pooja marveling at Vikram's knowledge of her likes, promising to learn his. 

At the hospital, 

a nurse ticked off Arjun's health reports. 

At the guesthouse - the rooftop,

An hour later, Vikram suggested, "Should we sleep here?" 

Pooja replied, "No, let's go to the bedroom downstairs." 

As she freshened up, Vikram grabbed his phone, browsing Instagram.

He planned to post a "new life, new beginning" photo, but a friend's repost loaded slowly—a blurred image of Anjali with the handsome man, captioned, "He said yes, and we began today."

 The door creaked—Pooja entered, stunning him as she shed her saree. 

At the hospital, 

Arjun changed into his operation suit. 
Vikram dropped his phone, the photo clarifying—Anjali and her fiancé—but he was too distracted by Pooja's bold presence before him.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 21: Pooja's Pleasure Pain & Arjun's Pain ? 

Guesthouse - The Prelude of Passion

The guesthouse bedroom thrummed with an electric silence, the air thick with anticipation as Pooja stood before Vikram, her saree abandoned in a bold, crumpled heap at her feet. Her eyes, once shadowed by doubt, now blazed with a potent mix of resolve and uncharted longing, her chest rising with each shallow breath. "I'm ready now," she whispered, her voice a trembling vow of liberation, laced with a vulnerability that stirred Vikram's soul.

His pulse hammered, a wild drumbeat in his veins, as he flung his mobile aside with a decisive clatter, his hands reaching for her with a reverence that belied the storm within. He pulled her into a deep, searing kiss, their tongues colliding in a fervent, hungry dance, a fusion of trust and desire.

Breaking the kiss, his breath ragged, he searched her eyes and asked, "We are not yet married—will you trust me?" Her gaze locked with his, a fierce determination breaking through her nerves. "Yes, I trust only you, no one else. Take me however you want," she declared, her words a surrender to the passion she'd suppressed for too long. With eager, trembling fingers, he unbuttoned her blouse, the silk whispering to the floor, unveiling her quivering shoulders, her skin flushed with anticipation. She responded with equal fervor, yanking his shirt apart, buttons scattering across the room like tiny declarations of their urgency. Her hands slid his trousers down, bold yet shaky, while he eased her petticoat off, the soft rustle blending with her soft, eager gasps, their bare skin igniting as they pressed together, a firestorm of pent-up passion unleashed.

Hospital - The Surgical Threshold

In the operating theater, the sterile air was heavy with tension as Arjun lay motionless on the cold, metallic table, his body stripped bare under the unforgiving glare of surgical lights. The surgeon paused, his gloved hands hovering, and turned to Anjali with a grave expression. "He has no relatives—are you okay to take this risk for him?" Anjali's hand trembled as she signed the consent form, her voice steady despite the weight of the moment. "He has no one. Only I and my would-be can do this. Please go ahead." The scalpel descended with a precise, chilling tear, slicing through his flesh, peeling back layers to expose the nerve-damaged spine, blood seeping as the doctor braced for the delicate task ahead, the ECG monitor's steady beep a somber pulse in the sterile silence.

Guesthouse - The Awakening of Desire

Vikram lifted Pooja onto the cot, its creak resonating like a heartbeat, a primal rhythm that mirrored the distant hospital's monitor. 

His hands, strong and possessive, roamed to her breasts, fondling them with a hungry intensity, his fingers circling her nipples until they peaked under his touch, sending electric shivers through her. 

Pooja gasped, a playful yet overwhelmed smile breaking through her moans, "You're always hungry for these—go ahead." The sensation awakened a dormant fire within her, her body arching instinctively, a flood of emotions—trust, desire, and a long-buried sexuality—crashing over her like a tidal wave.

Her hands, trembling with newfound boldness, slid down to measure Vikram's arousal, her eyes widening in awe as she murmured, "It's quite big." She stroked him gently, her inexperience a shy confession, and Vikram, his dominance surging, guided her head down with a firm yet tender grip. "Taste it," he commanded, his voice a low, resonant growl. 

She hesitated, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment, then complied, her lips tentative as she explored him, a conversation unfolding in hushed tones. 

"I'm so inexperienced—Arjun and I never did this," she admitted, her voice a mix of shame and curiosity. 

Vikram pulled her up, his grin wicked yet warm, "I'm here to show you what you've missed. 

Let's explore together." He introduced her to different styles, his voice a guiding whisper, "Try this—doggy first, then we'll hug close." She blushed deeply, her shyness a delicate veil, "I've never... I'm scared," but his reassuring nod emboldened her, her trust in him peaking as she surrendered to his lead.

Hospital - The Nerve Recalibration

The surgeon encountered a cluster of inflamed tissue around Arjun's spine, his hands applying meticulous pressure to separate the layers, the nurse monitoring the ECG as its beep held steady. The team paused, the doctor conferring with the nurse in low tones, "We need to reposition the fixes—how do we proceed from here?" They strategized, deciding to adjust the approach, the delicate task mirroring Vikram's gentle guidance, though Arjun's body remained a passive battlefield, his pain a silent contrast to Pooja's awakening.

Guesthouse - The Symphony of Surrender

Their passion reignited with a smooch, lips crashing in a fervent embrace, tongues dancing as Vikram positioned her on all fours, her breath hitching with nervous excitement. He entered her anally in a doggy style, the tightness a shocking revelation, her gasp a mix of pain and pleasure as she adjusted to his bull-like dominance. "It's... intense," she panted, her trust in him deepening, her sexuality fully awakened as she clung to the cot. 

Vikram's hands gripped her hips, his thrusts powerful, his voice a low rumble, "You're mine now." Shifting styles, he pulled her into a hugging position, their chests pressed together, her legs trembling as he entered her vagina again,  her body yielding to his overwhelming presence. "It's so much ," she moaned, her emotions peaking, a tear of joy mixing with her pleasure.

Overwhelmed, she pushed back, "I'm done," but Vikram's eyes darkened with three years of pent-up longing. "I've waited three years for you, darling—I'm not done yet," he growled, his dominance unshakable. He carried her to the rooftop, the moonlight bathing them in a silver glow, a symbol of their love's rebirth. She wrapped her legs around him, their bodies merging in a final, fervent embrace, 40 minutes of non-stop passion unfolding. Her moans traveled through the air, carried across the beach by the night breeze, a raw, unrestrained symphony of ecstasy. 

Vikram's thrusts were relentless, his strength a force of nature, guiding her to a high orgasm that shook her core, his own release echoing hers in a shared, explosive climax, their love sealed under the stars.

Hospital - The Fight for Life
Arjun's body twitched as the surgeon pressed deeper, a nurse wiping blood from the incision, water splashed on his face to jolt him from anesthesia's edge. The ECG beep quickened, his pain a searing counterpoint as the defibrillator paddles were charged, a nurse shouting "Clear!" The shock buzzed through him, the monitor faltering, then stabilizing as the surgeon stitched the torn flesh, a sedative injected, and another splash of water applied. The doctor cauterized a bleeding vessel, the sizzle piercing the air, another shock delivered as Arjun's face contorted, the ECG beeping erratically. As the guesthouse passion reached its zenith, the monitor settled into a steady beep, Arjun's eyes fluttering open with a pained "Ahhh," his consciousness returning, the surgery a success. The doctor exhaled, peeling off gloves as the nurse adjusted his bed, his pain fading into a haze of survival.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 22: Pooja's post sex deepens a bond with Vikram ?


 Waves of New BeginningsGuesthouse - The Dawn of Intimacy

The morning sunlight streamed through the guesthouse windows, casting a warm glow over Pooja and Vikram as they stirred awake, the chill of the night sending a shiver down their spines. Pooja blinked, her eyes adjusting to the light, only to realize with a flush of embarrassment that she lay stark nude on the rooftop floor, her body marked by the wild passion of the previous night. Her skin bore the faint bruises and sheen of Vikram's fervor, a mix of shame and awe washing over her as she scanned her aching form. 

Shyness peaked, her cheeks burning, yet a secret thrill pulsed within her—last night's intensity had awakened something primal. Vikram rolled toward her, his manhood stirring with renewed intent, leaning in to kiss her lips.

Pooja stopped him, a shy laugh escaping, "Vikram, we haven't brushed yet!" 

He grinned, his voice teasing, "So what, my wifey..." 

She corrected him softly, "I'm not yet your wife—I'm just divorced and your lover. 

Let's take it slow." 

The tenderness in her tone masked her racing heart. 

She suggested, "Coffee, shall we?" 

Vikram rose, turning to gaze at the serene beach, then helped her to her feet. Standing nude on the rooftop, a sight she'd never dared before, Pooja felt a strange liberation despite the ache in her thighs and hips. No buildings loomed nearby, but even if they did, her awakening cared little for shame. A smile crept across her face, the pains a sweet symbol of their love. As they moved inside, she announced, "I'll shower and come back." Vikram's eyes glinted with mischief, "Let me join." She hesitated, then nodded, unaware of the steamy session ahead.

At 8:00 AM, they stepped into the shower together, the cool water cascading over their skin. Their lips met in a hungry kiss, and Vikram pressed his thick arousal against her entry. Pooja gasped, "What are you doing, Vikram?" He smirked, "Have you ever tried this in the shower?" She shook her head, "No, not in a shower." His voice dropped, "Then let me make you explore this." The chill of the water couldn't dampen their heat as he lifted her against the wall, entering her with a forceful thrust. For 30 minutes, they made mad love, the steam rising as Pooja's moans echoed off the tiles, her body surrendering to a shattering orgasm. As his manhood doesnt softened, she laughed, kneeling to take him in her mouth, her touch playful yet eager. By 9:30 AM, they finished showering, their bond deepened by the intimacy.

Vikram took her for a walk along the beach, the fresh air filling her lungs, the world outside fading as she reveled in her newfound freedom. The coastline was sparsely populated, and Vikram had hired a boat. "Let's go to the middle of the ocean for fishing," he suggested.

 In the heart of the sea, he knelt on the boat, his eyes locked with hers, and proposed romantically, 

"Will you marry me?" 

Tears welled in Pooja's eyes as she accepted, "Yes," the ring sliding onto her finger. 

They sat, discussing their future, Vikram proposing, "Shall we marry tomorrow?" Pooja paused, "Won't I need to inform my parents?" He considered, "First, they need to know about the divorce, then this. I don't think it's apt to inform now. Let's marry, then register ourselves—only after that will there be no threat." Pooja nodded, reflecting on Arjun's unexpected actions. "We've seen Arjun, the biggest threat—he imposed something unbelievable on us. Our parents aren't an issue, but we shouldn't take it lightly." They agreed, and Pooja marveled at how quickly she'd embraced this new love. As sea waves lapped near, she kissed him briefly, and Vikram responded with a passionate kiss. The day unfolded into a whirlwind of sexual intimacy, the guesthouse their sanctuary until the next morning, 24 hours filled with moans, cries, and pleasure, punctuated by 6 hours of quiet cuddling in each other's arms.

Hospital - The Road to Recovery

Back at the hospital, Arjun remained stable, though not fully conscious, his lips muttering "Pooja" repeatedly, a haunting echo of his sacrifice. Anjali's fiancé arrived in the morning, checking his vitals with a professional eye. "He's normal," he assured, turning to Anjali. "Go back to the house—I've asked a nurse to care for him." Anjali hesitated, then requested, "Delete that Instagram image. Pooja just left him; the photo might create doubt. Let her marry." Her fiancé nodded, accessing his account and removing the post, protecting Pooja's new chapter.

Guesthouse - The Seal of Love

Over the next week, Arjun slowly regained normalcy, walking with tentative steps, his vitals fully restored, though it marked only the start of his recovery. Meanwhile, Pooja embraced her role as Vikram's wife-to-be, reorganizing his home to reflect her needs, discarding every trace of her past with Arjun. They informed their office of their impending marriage, sparking gossip. Some whispered of cheating, but Vikram stood resolute, addressing the team: "Guys, I know you may doubt or gossip. We'd like to clear this—yes, Pooja and Arjun were in love, married, but family issues and differences drove them apart. He moved on with his startup and new life, so have we. I was her good friend, didn't want her to lead a single life, proposed, and we're marrying this week. If you trust us, visit our wedding at the nearby temple." A few clapped, others looked shocked. Some lost faith in love, blaming Pooja for adultery, while others wished them well.

The next morning, Pooja and Vikram went shopping, he buying her new clothes as she discarded every reminder of Arjun, her apartment becoming a fresh lease on life. Normalcy returned, her intimacy with Vikram a daily renewal, the touch she'd missed for months now back with forceful passion. Each day brought a new sensual game, their bond strengthening. On the wedding morning, 20+ guests arrived to bless their union, the apartment—unused to more than five people—flooded with 50+, a vibrant celebration. Pooja's sister learned via Instagram, prompting a call where Pooja shared minimal, uncomfortable details. Her father panicked, slamming her choice, but her sister convinced him with the full story. At the hospital, Anjali informed Arjun of Pooja's marriage. He smiled weakly, "Glad it happened. Now I'm at peace."

That night, Pooja slept peacefully in Vikram's arms, whispering, 

"Thank you, Vikram—my life is back to normal. Without your love, I would have lost long ago.

 I didn't do anything; my love for you kept me strong."

 Vikram's voice softened, "I love you, Pooja." 

For the first time, her response registered deeply, "I LOVE YOUUU, VIKRAM! You are my LIFE."
They kissed passionately, launching into one more sensual night, their love a beacon in the quiet apartment.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 23: Pooja new life begins, while complications arise in family

The soft morning light filtered into Vikram's apartment, a stark contrast to the tension brewing as Pooja's father arrived unannounced, his face etched with fury.

He stormed in, slamming his hand on the table, his voice a thunderclap, "Pooja, what have you done? Marrying someone without our approval,? i still dint buy the nonsense you spit, Arjun is a good kid. You cheated on him. 

 Pooja shrank back, her eyes wide with shock, but Vikram stepped forward, his presence a steady shield. "Sir, please calm down. She's been through enough—let me explain," he said firmly, his tone respectful yet unyielding.

Her father glared, his suspicion flaring, "Back when they brought this Vikram for our cousin's marriage, I sensed something off. 

Where is Arjun? What happened to him?" Pooja and Vikram exchanged a glance, steeling themselves. She spoke softly, "Father, Arjun and I had irreconcilable differences—family issues, betrayals. We divorced legally." 

Vikram added, "I've loved her for years, supported her through this. I proposed, and she accepted." Her father's distrust deepened, and before they could stop him, he dialed Arjun's number.

At the hospital, Arjun, still weak but conscious, nodded to Anjali as the phone rang. She answered, introducing herself, "Hello, I'm Anjali, a friend of Arjun's." Pooja's father's face twisted with rage, cursing, "So its true? you're the housebreaker causing stir in my family? You've ruined my daughter!" 

Arjun, overhearing, snatched the phone, his voice cold and cutting, "Old man, behave, or I'll beat the pulp out of you. I threw the money I got from your daughter back in her face. I'm the one who drew her away—let her be." The line went dead, leaving a stunned silence. Pooja, trembling, produced the divorce papers, sliding them across the table. 

Her father snatched them, his hands shaking as he analyzed the legal truth, the reality sinking in. His anger melted into shame, and he turned to Vikram, sitill not able to come with terms, said im sorry. So whatever you should have asked our permission, why are we here as parents. Finally pooja holding his father hands smoothed him.  Pooja's mother and sister, who had arrived with him, watched in accepeted the harsh truth.

Apartment - The Week of Reconciliation

Pooja's parents and sister stayed at Vikram's apartment for a week, the small space filled with tentative conversations and shared meals. Over time, they witnessed Vikram's kindness—his patience with Pooja, his help with household tasks, his gentle humor. 

One evening, When Pooja's mother falls ill , Vikram drives her to the hospital at midnight without hesitation, staying by her side while arranging the best doctor through his connections. He comforts the family. The next day, Pooja's mother holds his hand, "You didn't have to do all this for an old woman like me." Vikram replies, "You're family now, Amma." This scene  made, Pooja's father to admit, "I misjudged him—he's a pillar for us all

Her father, once stern, softened, offering blessings, while her mother embraced Pooja, tears in her eyes. As they prepared to leave, Pooja pulled Vikram aside, gratitude shining in her gaze.

 "Thank you for hosting good for my family." He corrected her with a warm smile, "Our family," and she nodded, her heart swelling. The week mended old wounds, laying a foundation of acceptance.

Apartment - Months of Transformation

Months passed, and Pooja fully embraced her role as Vikram's wife, her mind purging every trace of her past. Her father and relatives visited often, their presence a comforting rhythm, while Vikram's parents learned of the marriage through distant gossip. 

They arrived, their words sharp as knives, tormenting Pooja with accusations: "A woman already married—shame on you both!" They stayed, intent on testing her, but Vikram stood like a rock, his support unwavering. He countered their barbs, "She's my choice, my love—respect her." 

Pooja, drawing strength from him, met his mother's cold stares with hospitality—cooking her favorite dishes, tending to her needs.

one such moment,inting at Pooja's "past" with snide remarks. Pooja smiles politely and heads to the kitchen, preparing Vikram's favorite dishes using recipes she learned from him. She serves his mother first, saying, "Amma, Vikram told me you love this curry—hope I got it right." The mother tastes it, her expression softening. "It's perfect... how did you know?" Pooja replies, "I listened when Vikram talked about you." This reveals Pooja's attentiveness and culinary care, with Vikram's father later saying, "She treats us like her own—she's a gem."
 Her care and devotion slowly thawed Vikram's mother's heart. By the second month, she began considering Pooja a proper daughter-in-law, her initial scorn replaced by a grudging admiration. The first two months of their married life were a crucible, forging a resilient bond through adversity.

[heygiwriter]

great beginning bro!...promising endless ecstacy...keep situations real and reactions natural and grounded...easy to connect...built up steam slow fire...sure to blast...good luck

Thanks a lot

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 24: Arjun Witnessed and moved on [18+]

The hum of daily life settled into a rhythm for Pooja and Vikram, their work and life balance perfectly aligned. Pooja had risen above the backtalk of gossiping colleagues, her spirit unshaken by whispers of her past with Arjun. She carried herself with a quiet confidence, no longer caring for the judgment that once stung. Meanwhile, Vikram, ever the strategist, convinced his father to launch a new business venture, his ambition soaring. Yet, an offer from their office—a lucrative onsite job in the UK—threatened to disrupt their harmony. Vikram demanded Pooja accompany him, but the company allowed only one, forcing him to postpone the opportunity, prioritizing their togetherness.

A friend, sensing their joy, gifted them a two-day honeymoon trip to a foreign country, a lavish marriage present. Pooja and Vikram embraced the escape, their love blossoming amidst the bustling big city. They explored hand in hand, sharing stolen kisses under foreign skies, their bond deepening with each moment.

Arjun's Retreat - Loneliness and Resolve

Elsewhere, Arjun lingered in the house once filled with Pooja's laughter, now a hollow shell. The loneliness gnawed at him, his health a fragile thread. Deciding to escape, he moved to a small town for a week, finding solace in an ashramam where he helped the needy. Yet, memories of Pooja—her laugh, her rants, her voice, her scent—pierced him relentlessly, each recollection a dagger. Determined to see her once before his strength faded, he planned a visit. But the next day, learning of Pooja and Vikram's honeymoon, he retreated to his villa, the sting of abandonment fresh.

Guesthouse - A Collision of Fates

Pooja and Vikram returned from their trip, their hearts brimming with memories, their love unshakable. Eager to celebrate three months of marriage, Pooja suggested a return to the guesthouse where it all began. As they entered, Vikram's mind flashed to their first passionate night, a hunger reigniting. He grabbed her clothes, their lips crashing in a fervent makeout session in the hall. Clothes shed one by one—blouse at the entrance, saree at the rooftop steps—until they reached the rooftop, bare under the sun heat. Vikram pounded into her, her moans echoing across the beach, a symphony of their rekindled desire.

Unbeknownst to them, Arjun, bored and aching, sought the guesthouse's comfort, the sea waves calling him. Twenty minutes later, his frail body led him to a cabana, but spotting Vikram's car, he hesitated. Driven by a need to see Pooja's face one last time, he moved silently inside. Hearing giggles, he climbed the stairs, only to freeze at the sight—Pooja, transformed, lost in Vikram's embrace, their bodies entwined. The ache in his chest deepened, a silent witness to their passion. As they remained oblivious, he descended slowly, cramps slowing his escape, the trail of clothes a cruel testament to his choice.

Vikram, groaning as he released, sensed a presence. Rising, he glimpsed a lean, unidentifiable figure slipping out. "What?" Pooja asked, breathless. Vikram, confused, muttered, "I don't know, darling—thought someone was here." Pooja nodded, "I felt it too, mid-makeout." Alarmed, he locked the room, his mind racing to Arjun, though dismissing it—could he be so frail?

Hospital - A New Revelation

A week later, Pooja's health deteriorated, vomiting plaguing her mornings. Worried, Vikram rushed her to the hospital. The doctor assessed her, ordering a urine test. At the counter, Vikram collected the report, only to freeze—Anjali stood there with a handsome man, introducing him as her husband, and the frail figure beside them as his brother, there for therapy. 

The unrecognizable man was Arjun, shock rippling through Vikram. Why was he married? Why "brother"? Why this state? His head spun until the clerk interrupted, "Sir, your report—meet the doctor now. It's an important discovery." Prioritizing Pooja, he handed the results over.

The doctor smiled, "Listen, Mr. Vikram, carefully. Is it serious?" he asked, panicked. She laughed, "Yes, but good serious. Your wife is pregnant—congratulations! 

First pregnancies can weaken her, so avoid unhealthy foods and ensure nutrients." Vikram, reeling from Arjun's sight, was blindsided by joy, though unease lingered. Pooja hugged him upon hearing, but noticed his tension.

Apartment - A Night of Assurance

That night, in bed, Pooja pressed, "Are you not happy with this baby now?" Vikram hugged her, kissing her cheek, "No, I was just thinking something else." Her unconvinced look softened as he added, "Let's raise the baby—I'll give my 100%." 
An assuring embrace followed, then a laugh, "No more hugs—little one might find me heavy!" He lulled her to sleep, but his mind was set—determined to track Arjun's details.

[heygiwriter]

Chapter 25: Vikram's Burden: Truth, Love, and a Dying Friend

Apartment - A Celebration of Life

The morning sun filtered through the apartment windows as Vikram, brimming with joy, called both families the next day to share the good news of Pooja's pregnancy. His voice carried pride as he ensured she secured a leave from the company, dedicating the pregnancy period to her care. His love shone through every gesture—preparing her favorite meals, arranging a cozy nook for rest, and soothing her with gentle touches. Yet, an unease about Arjun lingered in his mind, a shadow he couldn't shake. He enlisted a friend to dig into Arjun's details, determined to uncover the truth.

As Pooja's family and Vikram's family arrived, the apartment buzzed with laughter and blessings. Amid the celebration, Vikram seized a moment to slip away, gathering the information himself. The next day, armed with resolve, he drove to Arjun's house.

Arjun's House - The Confrontation

On the way, Vikram's phone buzzed with his friend's call, the details unraveling like a storm. "He sold the company," the friend revealed, "the partnering was fake, and the affair with Anjali was bullshit. Arjun built a bad image—stage IV cancer left him no choice. Anjali and her doctor husband staged it to free Pooja." Vikram's grip tightened on the steering wheel, shock and anger warring within him.

At Arjun's modest home, Arjun's frail form greeted him, shock widening his eyes at Vikram's arrival. Vikram grabbed his shirt, his voice a growl, "Why did you do this to Pooja? What crime did she commit? Tell me now!" Arjun, surprisingly calm, met his gaze with a faint smile, touched by Vikram's fierce care for Pooja. "I made a wise decision leaving her to you," he said softly. "You didn't hide knowing about me—let me tell the truth, but don't tell her. She'd break."

Arjun confessed the whole setup: his terminal cancer diagnosis, the deliberate ruin of his reputation, and the staged affair with Anjali to free Pooja from a widow's fate. "I wanted her to live, to love again," he whispered, tears glistening. Vikram broke down, falling to his knees, "I'm sorry—I misunderstood you." The weight of his error crushed him.

Arjun, voice weak, pleaded, "Take me to see her from afar—my last wish?" Vikram nodded, "We're friends. You blessed me with her—why wouldn't I? She's my wife now; that part you need to understand." A nod sealed their understanding.

Meeting Anjali - A Plea for Care

Later, Vikram visited Anjali to apologize and gather more details. She met him with weary eyes, saying, "He just has a few more days—his condition has worsened. All he needs now is love and care; he's sacrificed enough. You seem a good person—that's why Arjun, my brother, left Pooja to you. I guess you know what to do. A pay back? A thanking? Please, for him, I hope you do it." 

Vikram, his voice thick, confessed, "Pooja is pregnant. I don't know how to open this, but I'm aching. She needs to know his sacrifice—her love was not at fault; this would clear her." Anjali, surprised by his openness and care for Pooja, thanked him warmly, handing over Arjun's medical details. Moved, Vikram appointed a caretaker that week to tend to Arjun, vowing to support him.

A Growing Brotherhood - The Unbearable Truth and Dual Role

Vikram began visiting Arjun daily, their bond evolving into a fragile brotherhood. He brought food, shared stories, and sat by his bedside, watching Arjun's strength fade. Day by day, Vikram realized Arjun was losing the battle, his frail frame a stark reminder of the ticking clock. 

Yet, his heart remained split, torn between two worlds. At home, he managed Pooja's needs with meticulous care—waking early to brew her ginger tea for morning sickness, scheduling doctor visits, and ensuring she rested with pillows propped just right. 

He cooked nutrient-rich meals, his hands steady as he chopped vegetables, whispering encouragements to her growing belly. Evenings were spent reading to her, his voice a balm against her fatigue.

Simultaneously, he carved out time for Arjun, driving to his house each afternoon after Pooja napped. He coordinated with the caretaker, adjusting medications, and sat with Arjun, holding his hand through bouts of pain. The dual role weighed on him—he couldn't hurt Pooja by revealing the truth, nor could he abandon Arjun, whose sacrifice had given him this life. Vikram juggled schedules with a planner, balancing hospital runs with prenatal checkups, his exhaustion masked by a forced smile. "You should have told me," he said to Arjun one day, voice breaking. "Pooja wouldn't have hurt so badly." Arjun's eyes dimmed, "Only hurt could make her stay away from me—my cancer would've chained her to grief."

The weight of the secret grew unbearable—Vikram couldn't hide it anymore, torn between protecting Pooja and honoring Arjun's dying wish. He resolved to find a way to ease her pain, even as he nurtured them both, his love a bridge over the chasm of tragedy.

The Car Ride - A Heartbreaking Revelation

Finally, Vikram gathered the strength to face the truth head-on. One evening, he took Pooja's hand, guiding her to the car. "See, Pooja," he said calmly, his voice steady but laced with tension, "I'm taking you somewhere. You need to be emotionally strong." Pooja tilted her head, her eyes searching his. "Vikram, do you love me to the end?" she asked, a flicker of doubt in her tone. "What kind of question is this?" she added, puzzled. He asked again, more firmly, and she nodded, "Yes." Vikram took a deep breath, "Then I shouldn't hide this from you. I love you the most, and I don't want you to one day find the truth and ask me, 'Are you human? How could you hide this?' The information I'm about to share will break you, but I found it myself only a few days back."

Pooja's brow furrowed, her voice trembling, "Please don't build a surprise—is it a bad one?" Vikram nodded gravely, "Yes, it's bad, but it shouldn't spoil our relation or love—that's why I've been worried." Pooja reached for his hand, "Nothing can damage our love, Vikram." 

He sighed, "I hope so." As he drove, he continued, "You know, at the hospital when your pregnancy was revealed, my mind was off—it was because of this. I asked my friend to enquire, and a few days back, I took time to get the strength to tell you only now." The surprise built in Pooja's chest, worry etching her face. "No issues, be open—I can digest it," she urged.

As the car stalled, Pooja's breath caught—they had stopped at their old house, Arjun's home. "What is this about?" she whispered, her voice shaking. 
Vikram turned to her, his eyes glistening, "Arjun has cancer they say its terminal..."

[heygiwriter]

Arjun's moves to new country - The last chapter

The Car - A Tearful Truth

Vikram sat in the driver's seat, the engine idling outside Arjun's old house, his hands trembling as he turned to Pooja. With a deep breath, he revealed the full truth—Arjun's terminal cancer, the staged affair with Anjali, and his deliberate sacrifice to free her from a life of grief.

 "I found this a few days ago," he admitted, his voice cracking. "I didn't know how to tell you." Pooja leaned back, tears streaming down her cheeks, the weight of it sinking in. Vikram reached for her hand, "I guess we should meet him. Best we take care of him. We can do it as his friends, if not for any past relationship."

Pooja looked into his eyes, her voice shaky, "Shall we stay here until... I-I..." she stammered.

 Vikram gently reminded her, "Your parents are at our place, and I have caretakers here.

Let's visit him often—I'll take you."

Pooja nodded, "This is enough. 

If you wish, I can handle the parents at home." Vikram started to protest, but she stopped him, "No, I'm your wife. Let the past be past. If that's what he wished..."

 Vikram's gaze dropped, worry etching his face. Pooja cupped his cheek, "You never left me, so I am. Let's give him a proper send-off with love and the things he needs. His sacrifice... I have two people who loved me to the core." She smiled through her tears, and Vikram hugged her tightly, whispering, "Don't be too emotional—babies are there." 

She shook her head, a bittersweet resolve settling between them.

Arjun's House - A Reunion of Hearts

Inside, Arjun's shocked eyes met theirs as they approached. "Vikram, why did you bring her?" he rasped, his voice frail. Pooja's tears broke free, heavy and unrelenting. She touched his pale, lean face and hand, her heart aching, "Why are you like this?" 

Her voice cracked as she broke down, the sight of his withered form piercing her soul. Arjun glanced at Vikram, who stepped in, consoling her with a steady arm. Hours later, she stepped aside, calling Anjali to enquire about his health, her voice thick with apology over the phone.

That evening, Anjali and her fiancé visited, their presence a quiet support. Pooja left Arjun to sleep, her heart heavy, while Vikram stayed by his side. The next morning, she and Vikram returned, bringing a semblance of normalcy—cooking food together, reading stories, watching cinema, and discussing favorite films. Another day, they took him to the guesthouse, enjoying a happy meal under the stars. Arjun, unrestrictive with food, seemed to gain a flicker of energy, a fleeting redemption in his tired eyes.

Family and Farewell - A Shared Journey

Slowly, Pooja's parents grew suspicious of their frequent disappearances. Vikram, with a broken voice, opened up to his father-in-law, who visited Arjun and hugged him tightly, "You should have told us—we would've done something." They stayed with Anjali, surprised to see a man whose days were counted last more than a week. Pooja and Vikram took Arjun on long rides to their favorite places, even visiting his old startup, now flourishing under a new boss. The staff hugged him, and they shared a meal out. One day, Pooja announced her pregnancy, and Arjun's face lit up with joy, a rare smile breaking through his pain.
Once a lonely man, Arjun now found relations—Vikram and Pooja embraced each other in love each night, their talks easing the heaviness, careful not to disturb the baby. 


One morning, Vikram's father-in-law called, his voice laced with confusion and concern. "Arjun is gone. He's not in his room. There's a letter."
Vikram and Pooja rushed to the house, hearts pounding. Anjali was already there, holding a sealed envelope addressed to them all. With trembling hands, Vikram opened it and read Arjun's words aloud.
"My dear family,
By the time you read this, I will be far away, in a different country, starting a new life in a new way. Please don't search for me. Think of me as living somewhere peacefully, away from here.
I don't want to leave you with heavy memories of pain and suffering. I am leaving this country with satisfaction in my heart, knowing that you all are happy and together.
A doctor has promised to try a treatment that gives me a 50-50 chance of survival. I didn't want anyone to know, to hold onto false hope or watch me struggle. Anjali knows, but I asked her to keep it secret.
Whether I survive or not, I won't come back. I am happy now that I have a family like you. Lead your own lives—I will take care of mine.
Move on, live fully, and remember me with smiles.
With love,
Arjun"

Tears fell as Vikram finished reading. Anjali spoke softly, her eyes red. "He confided in me about the doctor abroad who offered this last chance. He didn't want you to see him weaken further or cling to hope. He said his sacrifice would mean nothing if you spent your lives waiting or grieving. Even if he survives, he wants you to move forward without him."

Pooja clutched the letter to her chest, sobbing quietly. Vikram pulled her close, his own eyes misty.

The Aftermath - A Legacy of Hope

Arjun vanished as mysteriously as he had reentered their lives, leaving behind a letter that eased the pain of parting. Though his absence created a void, his words urged them to embrace life. Family and friends gathered not for a funeral, but to celebrate the time they shared and the love he gave.

Pooja and Vikram honored his wish, strengthening their bond and preparing for their child's arrival. The uncertainty of Arjun's fate lingered—a quiet hope that somewhere far away, he was fighting and perhaps finding peace. His selfless love endured, inspiring them to live fully, carrying his legacy in their hearts as a beacon of quiet strength and enduring affection.