Why Me

Why Me

Akash Dey

Published by Akash Dey, 2024.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

WHY ME

First edition. August 17, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 Akash Dey.

ISBN: 979-8227043603

Written by Akash Dey.

Also by Akash Dey

The Sweetest Surrender

A Kiss In The Rain

The AgreeMent

Why Me

Her Promise

A Fake Love

Until We Meet Again

The Fated Knot

Unspoken Attraction

Eyes That Speak

Tears Between The Pages

The Wings Of A Butterfly

The Language Of Heart

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Also By Akash Dey

Why Me

Chapter 1: The Unexpected Turn

Chapter 2: Stepping Into the Unknown

Chapter 3: The Calm Before

Chapter 4: Shadows of the Past

Chapter 5: Unraveling Threads

Chapter 6: Cracks in the Armor

Chapter 7: Unraveling

Chapter 8: The Final Goodbye

Chapter 9: A Test of Hearts

Chapter 10: The Promise of Tomorrow

Chapter 11: The Unraveling

Chapter 12: The Crossroads

Chapter 13: New Beginnings

Chapter 13: New Beginnings

Chapter 14: The Unspoken Truth

Chapter 15: Turning the Page

Chapter 16: The Unexpected Visitor

Chapter 17: A New Beginning

Chapter 18: The Unveiling

Chapter 19: Echoes of the Past

Chapter 20: The Proposal

Chapter 21: The Wedding

Chapter 22: A New Beginning

Chapter 23: Trials and Triumphs

Chapter 24: A Moment of Truth

Chapter 25: Reflections and Revelations

Chapter 26: The Test of Time

Chapter 27: The Turning Point

Chapter 28: New Beginnings

Chapter 29: A New Horizon

Chapter 30: Reflections and Resolutions

Chapter 31: Embracing the Future

Chapter 32: A New Challenge

Chapter 33: Crossroads of Change

Chapter 34: New Beginnings

Chapter 35: A Leap of Faith

Chapter 36: A Test of Faith

Chapter 37: The Unexpected Choice

Chapter 38: A New Horizon

Chapter 39: A Journey Apart

Chapter 40: A New Beginning

Chapter 41: The Unexpected Visitor

Chapter 42: Renewed Hope

Chapter 43: The Crossroads

Chapter 44: New Beginnings

Chapter 45: Echoes of the Past

Chapter 46: Uncharted Paths

Chapter 47: The Crossroads

Chapter 48: Echoes of Change

Chapter 49: Uncharted Waters

Chapter 50: The End of the Beginning

Further Reading: The Sweetest Surrender

Also By Akash Dey

About the Author

About the Publisher

​Why Me?

​Author :- Akash Dey

About The Book

*Why Me?* is a compelling romantic drama that delves into the complexities of love, resilience, and the quest for personal fulfillment. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant city, this evocative novel follows the intertwined lives of Anika and Raghav, two individuals whose paths cross in unexpected ways.

Anika, a passionate and driven professional, is on the cusp of a breakthrough in her career when she encounters Raghav, a charismatic and successful entrepreneur with a hidden past. Their initial connection sparks a whirlwind romance that transforms both of their lives. As they navigate their personal and professional challenges, their relationship is tested by secrets, misunderstandings, and the pressures of their demanding careers.

*Why Me?* explores themes of self-discovery, the impact of past experiences on present relationships, and the courage it takes to embrace love amidst uncertainty. With its rich character development and emotional depth, the novel captures the essence of modern love, highlighting the power of forgiveness and the importance of standing by each other in the face of adversity.

Perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt drama and intricate romance, *Why Me?* offers a poignant look at how two people can find solace and strength in each other while overcoming the obstacles life throws their way. Join Anika and Raghav on their journey of love, growth, and self-realization in this beautifully crafted story that will leave you reflecting on the true meaning of connection and commitment.

​Summary

*Why Me?* is a captivating romantic drama that explores the profound impact of love and personal growth amidst life's challenges. The story centers on Anika, a talented and ambitious professional, and Raghav, a charismatic entrepreneur with a complex past. Their paths cross in an unexpected encounter that ignites a powerful and transformative romance.

As Anika and Raghav navigate their burgeoning relationship, they confront the ghosts of their pasts and grapple with the pressures of their high-stakes careers. Their love story unfolds against a backdrop of personal and professional turmoil, revealing deep-seated fears and desires. Through a series of trials and revelations, they must confront their insecurities and make choices that will define their future.

*Why Me?* delves into themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the strength required to build a meaningful connection in the face of adversity. The novel paints a poignant picture of how love can be a source of both profound joy and significant challenge. With its rich character development and emotional depth, it invites readers to reflect on the nature of commitment and the courage needed to embrace a future with someone who has the power to change your life.

This gripping narrative offers a compelling exploration of modern romance, showcasing how two people can find their way to each other despite the obstacles that life presents.

​About the Authors

AKASH DEY IS AN EMERGING voice in the world of contemporary romance and drama, captivating readers with his nuanced storytelling and deep exploration of human emotions. With a unique ability to blend heartfelt narratives with complex characters, Akash’s work resonates with readers who seek stories that are both emotionally engaging and thought-provoking.

Born and raised in Kolkata, Akash draws inspiration from the vibrant culture and dynamic energy of his hometown. This rich background is evident in his writing, where the city itself often becomes a character, adding depth and authenticity to his stories. His keen understanding of the interplay between tradition and modernity in Indian society informs much of his work, allowing him to craft narratives that are both relatable and deeply resonant.

Akash’s writing journey began with a passion for storytelling that took root in his early years. Influenced by the works of literary greats and contemporary authors alike, he honed his craft, developing a distinctive voice that seamlessly blends romance, drama, and realism. His stories often explore the intricacies of love, the challenges of relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In his debut novel, An Agreement, Akash delves into the complexities of a professional arrangement that unexpectedly turns into a profound emotional journey. Through his protagonists, Ananya and Arjun, he explores themes of trust, commitment, and the transformative power of love. The novel has garnered praise for its rich character development and the authenticity with which it portrays the highs and lows of a relationship.

As a writer, Akash is committed to creating stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought and reflection. He believes in the power of fiction to shed light on the human experience, and he strives to offer his readers a mirror through which they can view their own lives and relationships.

When he’s not writing, Akash enjoys exploring new literary landscapes, immersing himself in the world of cinema, and engaging with his readers. He is an avid traveler, finding inspiration in the diverse cultures and places he visits, which often find their way into his narratives.

Akash Dey continues to work on new projects, with a focus on stories that challenge the conventional boundaries of romance and drama. His dedication to his craft and his passion for storytelling ensure that he remains a significant voice in the literary world, with many more captivating tales to come.

Chapter 1: The Unexpected Turn

The rain had a way of turning the streets of Kolkata into a canvas of blurred colors. The city, usually bustling with life, seemed to slow down under the weight of the monsoon. Drops of water clung to the windowpane, distorting the view outside, but inside, everything felt too real for comfort.

Anika Sen sat by the window of her small apartment, her hands wrapped around a cup of steaming tea. The warmth from the cup seeped into her palms, offering little comfort against the chill that had settled into her bones. Her thoughts were as chaotic as the weather outside, swirling with emotions she could barely understand.

She was twenty-eight, and life had been relatively straightforward until now. A stable job at a marketing firm, a few close friends, and a modest apartment in the heart of the city—these were the things she had worked hard to achieve. But all of it seemed to unravel in the span of a few weeks.

It had started with a casual remark from her mother during one of their weekly phone calls. Anika, don’t you think it’s time you settled down? You’re not getting any younger, you know.

Anika had brushed it off at the time, laughing and changing the subject. But the seed had been planted, and it grew into a gnawing anxiety she couldn’t shake. She wasn’t opposed to the idea of marriage—she just hadn’t found anyone who made her feel like it was worth giving up her independence.

Then came the meeting with Raghav.

Raghav Kapoor was the kind of man who commanded attention without trying. Tall, with an athletic build and an easy smile, he was the star of every gathering he attended. Anika had known him since their college days, but their paths had only crossed sporadically after graduation. He was the quintessential eligible bachelor—successful, charming, and unattainable.

Their recent encounter had been pure coincidence, or so Anika had thought. They’d run into each other at a mutual friend’s wedding, and before she knew it, they were talking as if no time had passed at all. There was something about Raghav that put her at ease, even as his presence made her heart race in a way she couldn’t quite explain.

Let’s catch up properly, he had said, his voice warm and inviting. How about dinner next weekend?

Anika had hesitated, but only for a moment. She found herself agreeing, even though she wasn’t sure what she was getting herself into. Dinner with an old friend—what could be the harm in that?

But the evening had taken an unexpected turn. What was supposed to be a casual dinner quickly morphed into something more, something deeper. The conversation flowed effortlessly, laughter punctuated the evening, and by the time they parted ways, Anika couldn’t deny the connection she felt.

Yet, as she sat by the window now, her mind replayed every moment of that night, trying to decipher what it all meant. Raghav had been clear about his intentions—he wanted to explore where this could go, and he wanted to do it with her. But Anika wasn’t sure she was ready for that.

She had always been the type to plan, to think things through before making a move. This sudden shift in her life—this possibility of something real with Raghav—was terrifying. What if it didn’t work out? What if she ended up losing not just a potential partner, but a friend as well?

The rain continued to pour, the sound of it drowning out the noise in her head. Anika took a sip of her tea, letting the warmth spread through her, grounding her in the moment. She knew she needed to make a decision, but the fear of the unknown paralyzed her.

Why me? The question echoed in her mind, relentless and unyielding. Why, after all these years, was Raghav suddenly interested in her? Was it just convenience, or was there something more? And why did she feel this inexplicable pull toward him, despite her reservations?

Anika’s phone buzzed, pulling her out of her thoughts. It was a message from Raghav.

Thinking about you. Let’s meet soon?

Her heart skipped a beat as she stared at the screen. It was a simple message, but it carried the weight of all the uncertainty she was feeling. She wanted to reply, to say yes, to see where this could lead. But the fear held her back, the fear of what might happen if she let herself fall.

She put the phone down, her fingers trembling slightly. This wasn’t like her. She wasn’t the kind of person who got swept away by emotions. She was practical, logical, always in control. But when it came to Raghav, all of that seemed to slip through her fingers like sand.

As the night wore on, Anika found herself questioning everything she thought she knew about herself. Maybe it was time to take a chance, to step out of her comfort zone and see what life had in store for her. But the question remained—was she ready for the consequences?

The rain had finally started to let up, the storm giving way to a quiet drizzle. Anika watched as the clouds began to part, revealing a sliver of moonlight that illuminated the wet streets below. She took a deep breath, her mind made up.

She reached for her phone, her fingers hovering over the screen for a moment before she typed out a response.

Let’s meet.

With that, Anika knew there was no turning back. This was the beginning of something new, something that could change her life in ways she couldn’t yet comprehend. And as she hit send, she couldn’t help but wonder—why me?

Chapter 2: Stepping Into the Unknown

The next few days passed in a blur for Anika. She threw herself into work, trying to distract herself from the turmoil inside her. But no matter how much she immersed herself in spreadsheets and client meetings, Raghav’s message lingered at the back of her mind. His simple invitation had unraveled a web of emotions she hadn’t realized was so tightly wound within her.

The morning of their planned meeting dawned gray and overcast, the remnants of the previous night’s storm still clinging to the air. Anika stood in front of her wardrobe, staring at the rows of clothes as if they held the answer to the questions swirling in her mind. What did one wear to meet someone who had suddenly become more than just a friend? She wasn’t sure what this evening would bring, and that uncertainty made everything feel heavier, more significant.

In the end, she settled on something simple: a navy blue dress that hugged her curves in just the right places, paired with a light cardigan in case the evening turned chilly. She kept her makeup minimal, just enough to enhance her features without masking them. As she applied a final touch of lipstick, she caught her reflection in the mirror and paused.

The woman staring back at her looked composed, but Anika knew better. Beneath the surface, a storm of emotions raged, a mix of excitement and fear that made her heart race. Was she really ready for this? What if this was just a momentary infatuation for Raghav? What if it didn’t last, and she ended up hurt and alone? But another part of her, quieter but more insistent, whispered that she couldn’t live her life in fear of the unknown. She had to take the leap, or she would never know what could have been.

With a deep breath, Anika grabbed her purse and left her apartment, trying to quiet the doubts in her mind as she headed to the café where they had agreed to meet.

The café was a cozy little spot tucked away on a quiet street, its warm yellow lights spilling out onto the sidewalk. It was the kind of place that felt like a hidden gem, a