Chapter 7: The Offer

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7

I thought I would finally be vindicated.

All the stories in my mind, all the words I’d lost—I hoped, foolishly, that someone would believe me this time. My hands shook as I typed out my reply.

But to my surprise, Meera came to persuade me to keep ghostwriting for Priya.

We met at a fancy Colaba café, the clink of cups and the low AC hum all around. Meera eyed my new Sabyasachi saree, a faint sneer curling her lips. Her own kurta was perfect, but she looked at me like I’d stolen it.

She sipped her cappuccino with slow, deliberate sips, then leaned in, all business.

'Name your price, Ananya. I know your family is struggling. How much do you want to keep writing?'

Her tone dripped condescension. I almost laughed into my masala chai.

'Now, Priya is the golden brand of our site. She’s already brought us huge profits, and the company will absolutely protect her.'

Meera’s words were final. I was just a tool, not a person. But I wasn’t the same girl anymore. Not by a long shot.