"So, after a long time, Ms. Chauhan! I thought you were doing it all right after..." The woman in her mid-30s, a seasoned psychologist with an air of calm authority, greeted Shivalika.

Shivalika sauntered over to the familiar couch, settling in as if she owned the place. It wasn't the first time she had made herself at home here, this office had seen more of her than she cared to admit. Over time, their relationship had evolved from that of patient and therapist to a peculiar friendship. After all, Ritika knew everything about Shivalika. her secrets, her fears, her darkest thoughts. The friendship was a strategic safeguard, ensuring that those confidences remained buried where they belonged.