Behind him stood Sherlyn Gupta, with an innocent looking face by which he was deceived in the previous life. He did not know when she changed or was she someone who plotted from the beginning knowing about his background and the talent he possessed in becoming a star.
It must have been due to the fame that he achieved in his later years that she took him as a stepping stone for her career to develop. He willingly supported her by going great lengths for her. Despite his unwavering support and sacrifices, she had shown no genuine gratitude or emotional feelings for him, leaving him to wonder if their relationship had ever been genuine.
Rishab's eyes narrowed as he gazed at Sherlyn, his mind racing with memories of their past. He remembered the way she had charmed him with her innocent looks and sweet words, only to reveal her true colors later. He recalled the opportunities he had given up, and the love he had showered upon her, all of which she had taken for granted.
"Sherlyn," Rishab said, his voice low and even, betraying no hint of emotion. "It's been a long time."
"Yes, It has almost been half a year since we last talked properly. See how the time changes and you are all popular with the latest drama series going on air. I can see the rising star in front of me. It is better to get an autograph earlier which would be worth a lot in the future when you are on the top." chided Sherlyn.
Rishab chuckled and shook his head, "Sherlyn, you always knew how to sweet talk. I'm not sure if I should be flattered or worried that you're overly praising me for the uncertainty that lies in the future "
Without waiting for her to reply, he smiled wryly, "But I suppose it's nice to know someone's confident in my abilities. Though, I think I'll hold off on giving you that autograph just yet. I don't want to jinx my chances of making it to the top."
Although Rishab inwardly scoffed at her ignorance, he carefully maintained a neutral front, as she remained blissfully unaware that she had already earned his displeasure. It would be a catastrophe if she attempted to get close to him now, clinging to him as she had in the past, given the precarious nature of their current dynamic.
"Oh, Rishab, you're always so cautious," she said with a laugh. "I'm just trying to show my support. You deserve all the success that's coming your way."
Sherlyn beamed, oblivious to Rishab's subtle dismissal. "I'm sure you'll make it to the top, Rishab! You're so talented and driven. I'll be rooting for you all the way!"
She leaned in, her voice taking on a sly tone. "And when you do, don't forget about me, okay? I'll be waiting for that autograph...and maybe even a collaboration?"
Her eyes sparkled with excitement, and Rishab's inward scoff turned into a silent groan.
He forced a smile, careful not to reveal his true feelings. "I'll keep that in mind, Sherlyn. Thanks for having such confidence in me."
He stood up, signaling the end of their meeting, and Sherlyn followed suit, still chatting enthusiastically. "So, let's catch up soon.... Maybe over coffee or lunch..."
Rishab's mind raced, searching for a polite but firm way to extricate himself from her clutches. Little did Sherlyn know, she was playing with fire, and Rishab was not about to let her get away with her wishes.
But for now, he played along, nodding and smiling as they exchanged pleasantries and parted ways.
As soon as Sherlyn disappeared from view, Rishab's expression turned icy. He couldn't believe her audacity, thinking she could still continue to put her nose into his life and control him like she did in his previous life.
Little did she know, he had secrets, and she was dancing like a fool and running many schemes in her mind so that she could take-off with his connections and play emotional cards.
His eyes narrowed, a plan forming in his mind. It was time to take control, to ensure Sherlyn didn't get too close to him.
Rishab's grip on his phone tightened as he thought about Sherlyn's manipulative games. He had let her control him once before, but not again. This time, he was in the driver's seat, and he would dictate the terms.
His mind racing, he began to weave a web of counter-moves, each one designed to overturn Sherlyn and keep her at arm's length. He would use her own tactics against her, play on her emotions, and keep her guessing.
A cold smile spread across his face as he thought about the game that he was about to play. Sherlyn thought she was the player, but Rishab was the master of the game. And this time, only one of them would emerge victorious and that would be him.
He returned back to his home as the walk around felt suffocating after meeting up with Sherlyn. He has to make a plan for his future very carefully.
Soon he is going to start his plan to take revenge for what she had made him go through in his previous life. Both of them are yet to fully kick-start their career at this point of time, though he is a bit popular currently with his debut in the latest television series. He has yet to make a breakthrough at this point of time.
In the coming days there are many advertisements to be shot and participate in the reality shows in order to promote the drama series. He will be busy in the coming week or two and yet to make any decisions about his future projects.
First and foremost, Rishab wanted to start an entertainment company of his own and manage his works by himself until he has got a good and reliable manager for himself. He would work on the projects that had a good potential in his previous life and make a name for himself early.
Although it would not be ethical to do so, he would not care. He has got a second chance to change his fate and he would make it a big one. No one gets to live a life with such a big opportunity that he got and the world he is currently living in is the rule of wealth and power.
One can go to any such extent to get his hands on such power and wealth, such is the greed of human nature. And the entertainment industry is where people become really ruthless because of its charm and benefits it gives.
As he began to put his plan into action, Rishab couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This was his chance to rewrite his destiny, to take control of his own life and make it what he wanted it to be. And no one was going to stand in his way, least of all Sherlyn Gupta.
But little did Rishab know, Sherlyn had secrets of her own, secrets that could change everything. And as they both played the game of power and deception, only one thing was certain: only one of them would emerge victorious.