chapter 2

The Woman in Red

Samaar’s Mansion – Early Morning

Ahaana wandered the silent halls. The mansion was massive, like a palace carved in marble and secrets. Chandeliers hung above, and security cameras followed her every move.

Suddenly, she stopped. A soft humming echoed from a room down the hallway. Curious, she pushed the door slightly open.

A woman stood inside. Draped in a blood-red saree. Stunning. Sharp-eyed. Confident.

Woman (without turning):

You must be the new guest.

Ahaana (tense):

Who are you?

Woman (turning slowly):

Reeva Raichand. Samaar’s… wife.

Ahaana’s breath caught in her throat.

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Samaar’s Study – Same Time

Samaar sipped his coffee, watching Ahaana’s movement through a hidden screen. His fingers tightened around the mug when he saw Reeva.

Samaar (to himself):

Reeva… why now?

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Inside the Room

Ahaana (shocked):

You’re his wife?

Reeva (smirking):

Legally? Yes. Emotionally? Samaar doesn’t belong to anyone. Not even me.

Ahaana’s heart twisted in confusion, anger… and something else. Was this woman warning her or mocking her?

Ahaana:

Why are you here?

Reeva (smiling darkly):

To see what’s so special about the girl my husband has locked in a golden cage.

Before Ahaana could reply, the door slammed open.

Samaar (icy voice):

Reeva. Out.

Reeva (casual):

Still controlling everything, I see.

Samaar (ignoring her):

You don’t belong here anymore.

Reeva (to Ahaana):

Good luck, sweetheart. You’ll need it.

She walked out, heels clicking like gunshots.

Ahaana stood frozen. Samaar turned to her, fury barely contained.

Samaar:

Whatever she told you—forget it.

Ahaana:

Are you married to her?

Silence.

Samaar (quietly):

Not anymore. She betrayed me. And I don’t forgive.

Ahaana:

And what will you do when I betray you?

He stepped forward. Eyes wild.

Samaar (low):

You won’t. Because I won’t give you the chance.

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The Scar Beneath the Suit

Private Quarters – Late Night

Ahaana tossed in bed. The image of Reeva haunted her. What game was Samaar playing?

Suddenly—

The power cut out. Total darkness.

She jumped up, heart racing. The door creaked open and a flashlight shone in her face.

Samaar (calmly):

Come with me.

She hesitated—but followed. He led her through hidden tunnels until they reached a dimly lit underground room. Old photos. Broken weapons. Bloodstained suits.

Samaar:

This is where I became who I am.

He pointed to a wall. A photo of a boy—15 years old—covered in blood.

Samaar (quiet):

My father died in front of me. I buried my emotions that day. Since then, I’ve only loved once—and it tried to kill me.

Ahaana:

You mean… Reeva?

He didn’t answer. Instead, he unbuttoned his shirt, revealing a deep scar along his chest.

Samaar:

She gave me this. On our wedding night.

Ahaana (shocked):

She tried to kill you?