In the coming days, the weight of their secret became a suffocating shroud. Diya and Raj tried every possible way to keep their forbidden fire hidden from the prying eyes of the university, but the gravity of their desire was making the air between them thick and heavy. The outside world began to notice the infinitesimal cracks in their professional facade.

It started with poisonous whispers. Students noticed how Raj’s dark, commanding gaze lingered on Diya just a fraction too long during lectures—a look that wasn't academic, but possessive. Others pointed out how Diya, usually the first to leave, now found excuses to stay back, her face flushed as she exited his office. These rumors, like a slow-spreading venom, made their way to the staff room, where sharp, suspicious glances followed Raj like a shadow.