My Cruel Love
A Promise A Past. And Pain That Won't' Let Go.
(One night of unconsciousness changed everything. In Maya's shattered world and Abir's emptiness, a new bond had quietly begun. But neither of them knew—a greater truth was still waiting ahead.)
Armaan slipped out of the cabin quietly. Abir watched him leave, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. Everything was going exactly as he'd planned. A promise was a promise—he would keep it, no matter what. They had to stand united now.
After finishing up with a junior executive, Abir and Maya also left the office. It wasn't technically closing time, but both brothers had had more than enough for one day.
Outside, Maya turned to Abir.
"You don't need to drop me home," she said gently. "I can manage.
Abir waved her off.
"Just wait here. I'll get the car.
A few minutes later, he pulled up and opened the passenger door from inside. Maya climbed in silently and buckled her seatbelt.
First stop: a nearby restaurant.
Abir ordered a full meal for Maya and just a coffee for himself. She barely touched the food, but he didn't comment. Once done, they were back on the road.
Halfway through the ride, Maya spoke up softly.
"Abir. I need to make a quick stop. At the hospital.
Abir's brow furrowed.
"Hospital? What's going on?
Her voice dropped to a whisper.
"My dad's there. Stage four cancer. The doctors say. he doesn't have much time.
Abir slammed the brakes. The tires screeched. He turned sharply toward her, stunned.
The honk of the car behind them broke the moment. Abir slowly pulled over, then looked at her again.
"What happened?
She didn't lift her gaze. Her voice trembled.
"It's advanced. He's on chemo, but.there's not much hope left.
Abir had no words. Maya had no one else. If her father passed away—where would she go?
He gently placed a hand on her head.
"Have faith. Things can still turn around.
She wiped her tears and composed herself. She hated showing weakness—but somehow, around Abir, the walls always crumbled.
He looked at her thoughtfully.
"So that's why you took the job at Armaan's mansion? To pay for your dad's treatment?
She nodded.
He hesitated.
"But weren't you a designer before?
Maya gave a bitter smile.
"I was. Until my manager tried to assault me. I quit on the spot. The managing director even came the next day and offered double the salary—but I never went back.
She paused.
"A few weeks later, my dad's health collapsed. Turns out, he'd known about the cancer for a while. Took out loans, kept it all from me.
By the time I found out, it was too late. I tried to get other jobs… but I never studied much, Abir.
He didn't say anything. Just restarted the engine and drove her to the hospital.
At the Hospital
Maya led Abir into the room. Her father, Ashraf Talukdar, lay weak, his eyes closed. Maya leaned in and gently touched his forehead.
His eyes opened slowly.
"You came, sweetheart? Please take me home. I hate it here.
Maya blinked back her tears.
"Just a little longer, Dad. You'll feel better soon. Look who's here to see you.
Abir stepped forward. Ashraf tried to sit up, surprised.
"Abir, my boy! Where have you been? It's been so long.
"I was abroad, Uncle. Just got back last week. You'll be okay—I promise.
Ashraf smiled faintly.
"Abir. my daughter. she's alone. I might not be around much longer. I'm not afraid to die, but I worry for her. Even her marriage didn't last. If I go… please promise me you'll look after her. Like your own sister. Please.
His voice cracked, and tears spilled from his eyes. Maya's lips trembled, but she kept her composure.
She forced a smile.
"Dad, stop talking like that. If you keep this up, I won't come inside next time. I'll just talk to the doctor from the hallway.
Ashraf chuckled weakly.
"You're still my stubborn girl. Abir, see how she talks to me?
Then he turned serious.
"Did she tell you she left her last job? Took out loans for my treatment? She says she's working again—but where?
Abir glanced at Maya's uncertain eyes, then turned back to Ashraf.
"She's working at my company now—as a designer. And don't worry. I've got her.
Ashraf sighed in relief.
"Thank you, son. Now I can sleep in peace.
They stayed a while longer. Maya later spoke with the doctor while Abir waited. Afterward, they stopped by her home to pack a few essentials. Abir stayed outside to avoid drawing attention from the neighbors.
Moments later, Maya came out with a small overnight bag.
They drove toward Shahriar Mansion.
Shahriar Mansion
As they rang the bell, Maya's heart pounded. Everyone would be home by now. What would she say? How would she face them—especially Armaan's mother, Mrs. Sabina Shahriar?
The door opened. Ruby stood there.
Abir stepped inside, turning back toward Maya, who hesitated at the threshold.
"What are you waiting for? Come in.
Inside, everyone turned at the sound of his voice. As they saw Maya, a hush fell over the room.
Maya stepped inside slowly, eyes downcast. The silence was thick with unspoken questions.
Then, a voice echoed from the staircase.
"Well. you're here," the woman said, cool and composed. "I've been waiting.
Maya looked up.
Standing halfway down the stairs was Mrs. Sabina Shahriar—elegant in a silk gown, adorned with gold jewelry. Regal. Poised. And absolutely intimidating.
She descended, one step at a time. Controlled. Powerful.
Maya didn't move.
To Be Continued..