THE UNEXPECTED DESTINY

The restaurant's ambient chatter and clinking cutlery faded into the background as Anya stood at the reception desk, her smile practiced, her posture poised. Yet, beneath the surface, a storm brewed. The encounter with Abhishek earlier that day had left her shaken, his possessive words echoing in her mind: "You're mine."

She had thought she had moved past the pain, past the confusion. But seeing him again, feeling the intensity of his gaze, it all came rushing back. The memories of their brief time together, the abrupt end, and the silence that followed.

Anya took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She couldn't afford to let her emotions interfere with her work. Not now. Not when she had finally found a semblance of stability.

"Anya," Lara's voice broke through her thoughts, "are you okay?"

She turned to see her friend looking at her with concern. Anya forced a smile. "I'm fine, just a bit tired."

Lara didn't look convinced but nodded. "If you need anything, I'm here."

Anya appreciated her friend's support but knew this was a battle she had to fight on her own.

As the day wore on, Anya found herself glancing towards the entrance more often than usual, half-expecting Abhishek to walk in again. Part of her hoped he wouldn't. The other part wasn't so sure.

Later, during a brief lull, Anya stepped out to the balcony, seeking solace in the cool evening air. The city lights twinkled below, a stark contrast to the turmoil within her.

She thought about their last conversation, his anger, his frustration. But what right did he have to claim her now? After leaving without a word, after months of silence?

Anya clenched her fists, trying to suppress the tears threatening to spill. She had come so far, built a new life, found new friends. She couldn't let him unravel it all.

Yet, despite her resolve, a part of her still longed for answers, for closure. Why had he left? Did he ever care?

The sound of footsteps behind her pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to see Arvy approaching.

"Hey," he said gently, "thought you might be out here."

Anya nodded, grateful for his presence.

"Want to talk about it?" he asked.

She hesitated, then shook her head. "Not now."

He respected her choice, standing beside her in silence, offering comfort without words.

As the night deepened, Anya knew she had to face her past, confront the emotions she had buried. But for now, she allowed herself a moment of peace, drawing strength from the city lights and the quiet companionship beside her.