CHAPTER-5

The study room was quiet when Haya and Shreya stepped inside, the faint rustle of books and papers filling the air. Shreya was just about to settle in when Haya suddenly turned toward her, raising her hand sharply as though she were about to strike.

Startled, Shreya froze. Her breath caught in her throat, and she instinctively squeezed her eyes shut, bracing herself for the sting of a slap. But instead of pain, she felt the soft pressure of Haya’s palm patting her cheeks. Confused, she opened her eyes to find Haya smiling with a mischievous glint.

Haya (dramatically, patting her cheeks twice): “Aishhh! It hurts me to think you believe I could ever raise my hand against you. I was only testing whether you’re scared of me or not.” Her lips curved into a smirk as she withdrew her hand. “And you know what? I loved that reaction.”

Shreya, still shaken, stepped backward, her heart racing. She rolled her eyes with a nervous smile as she moved toward her seat.

Shreya (sighing in relief): “Haya, you nearly scared me to death! Have some pity on me. Who wouldn’t be frightened of you after knowing who you really are?” She sat down, exhaling deeply as though releasing the tension that had built up inside her.

Haya (smirking, voice firm): “You’re right. But don’t worry—so long as you stay loyal and keep your mouth shut, you’re safe, baby. Now listen carefully. I need you to take care of Sam today. I have something important to do, and I want to handle it myself.”

Her smirk faded, replaced by a stern seriousness that made Shreya’s stomach twist.

Shreya (concerned, waving her hands in protest): “No way! I won’t let you go alone. Don’t you remember what happened last time? I can’t allow it. I’m coming with you. Mom and the maids can take care of Sam, so don’t worry. I’m not leaving you alone, and that’s final.”

Haya (serious, eyes narrowing): “How can I leave him with them right now? He’ll look for me, get angry, and they won’t be able to handle him. You know you’re the only one — besides me — who can calm him down.”

Shreya (pleading, voice trembling with concern): “Then at least tell me where you’re going. Take some guards with you, and please keep me updated with your location. Call me if—”

Haya (interrupting with a playful smack on her head): “Aww, my little meow is growing up. I’m loving this side of you.”

Shreya scratched the back of her head nervously, her eyes dropping to the floor.

Shreya (quietly, then smirking as she raised her head): “I was never your ‘meow’ when someone else ruled that place. He is your meow.”

Haya (smiling darkly, eyes gleaming): “I’m glad you remember. And yes, I’m going to play with my favorite thing at my favorite place.”

Shreya (eyes widening, tilting her head in disbelief): “You mean… you’ll do it alone?”

Haya (smirk deepening, voice low and dangerous): “Why not? He chose the wrong person to challenge. Now it’s my game, and you know this is my favorite game. So… bye!” She blew a flying kiss, shrugged her shoulders, and lifted one leg playfully before Shreya stopped her.

Shreya (smiling softly, shaking her head): “No one can truly understand you, Haya. No one can see the real you behind this cute face.”

Haya (raising an eyebrow, amused): “Am I just cute? Huh?”

Shreya (nervously surrendering, raising her hands slightly): “O-okay… I give up. You may leave. But if you come back late, I’m sure you won’t be able to meet your son for at least two days.”

Haya (grinning, waving as she hurried out): “Ohh, thanks for reminding me. Now I’m leaving. Take care of him, and of my family—including yourself. You’re my family too.”

With that, Haya rushed out of the room, her footsteps echoing down the hallway. Shreya remained seated, torn between relief and worry, her thoughts lingering on Haya’s dangerous smirk and the mystery of what she was about to do.