The aftermath of the confrontation with Vikram left an unsettling silence in the Sharma household. Shadows flickered across the walls, the warm glow of the anniversary decorations now feeling like a chilling reminder of the chaos that had erupted just moments ago. Riya stood at the center of the living room, her heart racing as she processed everything that had just unfolded. Adrik was nearby, his expression a mask of determination, but Riya could see the turmoil brewing beneath the surface.

"Are you okay?" Riya asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She stepped closer to him, wanting to bridge the distance created by fear and uncertainty.