As morning's warm whispers awakened the world, Vennela stirred, her heart racing like a wild animal in captivity. She hastily gathered her belongings, intending to flee the turmoil that had taken up residence within her. But, as she grasped the doorknob, her escape plan was foiled by the unyielding presence of Vijay.

He stood leaning against the opposite wall, his eyes riveted on hers like two shining stars in a midnight sky, his arms crossed, and his face pale with lack of sleep, worry lines etched deep like the gentle fingers of a river carving its path through stone.