Chapter 7: The Million-Rupee Goodbye

She just stands there, arms crossed, letting the scene play out. Maybe she’s tired, maybe she’s testing me. Indian women, I tell you, masters of hiding their real feelings.

Now the system’s voice is as anxious as a mother whose son has failed his board exams.

I’m tired, yaar. Enough chasing, enough drama. Let me live.

Her voice is unexpectedly soft, making me pause. I almost look back, but stop myself.

"Chup." She blinks, caught off guard. The assistants look away, pretending to be busy.

Her gaze lingers, searching for something I can’t name. Is it regret? Anger? Pity? I’ll never know.

I grip my phone, waiting for the system to do its worst, but nothing happens. Maybe even it is tired.

My patience has limits. Let Priya find her happiness elsewhere. I want my own.

Why do I have to be a hero? Why not just a simple man who wants his share of the good life?

I imagine a new life—Goa, or maybe Bangalore, starting over with a fresh name. The possibilities thrill me.

I hold the door open, let him pass, even smile a little. He scowls, as if I’ve insulted his ancestors.

The words land like a bomb. Even the AC seems to whine louder in shock.

He steps forward, jaw clenched, ready to punch. I raise my hands in surrender, palms sweaty.

I rattle off my lines, hoping he buys it. I’m just a character, nothing more. My tone is apologetic, but inside, I’m relieved.

He relaxes, shoulders dropping. He looks me up and down, sizing me up. "Toh, bas natak tha?"

I nod so hard, my neck aches. "Don’t worry, bhai. Besides me, no other man came near her."

My phone vibrates—a million rupees transferred. He grins, pats my back, and tells me to keep him posted. I almost laugh. Life is strange, na? The PayTM ka-ching is extra loud this time.

The system is having a meltdown. "Have you no shame? No ambition?" But for once, I feel free.

I pocket my phone, roll my shoulders, and breathe deep. The city’s chaos outside suddenly feels inviting.

In a world where love is a transaction, why be someone’s backup plan? I deserve better.

There are millions in this city alone. Why cry for one?

But this time, I wasn’t going to beg. Not for her, not for anyone.