Chapter 6: The Confrontation and the Fallout

After that, Kabir did everything to make me smile—buying me more things, complimenting every outfit. Even the sales staff thought we were a couple.

I pretended embarrassment, but inside, I was in control. Money is just a tool to buy feelings—my mother always said so. If Kabir wanted to buy redemption, who was I to refuse?

So much for brotherhood—one designer bag, and their friendship was already sinking.

Kabir seemed to forget Arjun was waiting. He drove me home, arms full of bags. At my door, I reminded him, "Don’t forget what you promised—say I have a great personality, I’m really cute, and anyone with me would be happy."

Kabir blushed, then coughed, "Yeah, you don’t have to tell me. I already think you’re cute."

I covered my face, cheeks burning, then changed the subject—what to get Arjun for his birthday. Kabir looked like he’d rather suggest a coffin. I laughed inside.

Halfway through, Arjun showed up—his text a question mark, wanting to know where I was. I showed Kabir the message, just to be safe.

Arjun stormed over, face red. "Wah, Priya, kya baat hai! You’ve really outdone yourself this time!" He grabbed my wrist, dragging me outside. My bangles clinked, echoing down the corridor as neighbours peeked from half-open doors.

"You look so innocent, but after one meeting you seduced my buddy? You’re greedy for money and lust—couldn’t wait to bring him home, kya?"

On the surface, I looked panicked; inside, I was sneering. If this was a serial, I’d cue the dramatic music now.

Kabir stepped between us, "Arjun, bas karo. Say it at home."

But Arjun, thinking Kabir was still on his side, got louder. "Settle it here! Priya, did you seduce my buddy?"

Kabir shoved Arjun. Arjun stumbled, Kabir’s eyes blazing. "Nothing happened! We were talking about your birthday present!"

Arjun glared at the bags. "What’s all this, then?"

Before Kabir could answer, I stepped in. "It’s my fault. Kabir offered to buy me a gift for our first meeting, so I let him. He couldn’t refuse because of you."

I pushed Kabir toward the lift. "Go, Kabir. I’ll explain to Arjun."

Arjun, furious, yanked me back. I lost my balance and fell, my dupatta slipping, pain shooting up my arm. The neighbours gasped; the aunty from first floor poked her head out, phone in hand, ready to WhatsApp the whole story to her kitty group.

Arjun froze, guilt flashing across his face. Kabir punched him hard. The sound echoed. Arjun doubled over, groaning.

Kabir stood over him, voice shaking. "How can you treat her like this? She just wants a good relationship—why do you always insult her?"

The hallway was silent. I leaned against the wall, eyes full of despair. Why shatter my dream? Why not punch him a few more times, Kabir?

I cried, this time real tears. I took out my phone, opened the ab selfie, and showed it to Arjun. "Did you try to set me up and ruin me?"

Arjun stared, speechless. For once, no comeback. My hands shook. "I always thought if I tried harder, maybe you’d like me. But I was wrong. Sorry. I won’t bother you anymore."

I deleted his contact in front of him, looked at Kabir, then turned and quietly closed the door. Kabir’s mask slipped, and for the first time, I saw fear in his eyes. I smiled through my tears—let them try to break me.