Chapter 4: The Shadow

The morning light was unusually soft — a pale warmth trying to seep through the fog, as if the sun itself was unsure of its place.

Mritika wasn’t in the mood for another treacherous day at work. But staying home was worse. A vacation meant more time to think, and thinking meant more time for Neel.

The tragic realization that always amazed her was this: whether you love someone or hate them, they occupy the same space in your mind. They distract you, haunt you, follow you — even when you run, even when you hide.

Her therapist, Tara, once told her, “Emotions are like bubbles. One bursts, another pops up. They may look similar, but they’re not — because your reactions aren’t. And reactions are shaped by involvement. So choose wisely. Only 20% of your relationships add value. The rest is just noise.”

She wanted Neel to be noise.

But he had always been a nuisance — persistent, invasive, unforgettable.