ENJOY THE CHAPTER 🎀
----------------------------------

The evening had finally arrived and the venue was transformed into a paradise of light and celebration thousands of crystal lamps and fairy lights illuminated the estate, casting a golden glow that made the jewelry of the guests sparkle like stars.

The air was a cocktail of expensive perfumes and the rich aroma of traditional delicacies.

In the grand hall, groups of elegant women were engaged in animated chatter, their silk sarees rustling with every movement, while the men stood in sophisticated circles, discussing business over glasses of sparkling juice.

But then the atmosphere shifted as rudra, kritika and ruhaan made their grand entrance they looked every bit the royalty they were.

Kritika was a vision of timeless elegance, draped in a stunning cream-colored saree that flowed around her like liquid silk she kept her look sophisticated with minimal makeup, highlighting her natural beauty and her only accessories were a pair of brilliant diamond studs that caught the light with every turn of her head.

Beside her, rudra looked sharp and lethal in a dark designer suit, while ruhaan radiated his usual boyish charm.

They made their way through the crowd toward the elders.

" Namaste aunty " Kritika said with a respectful, polite smile as she approached shivani ji.

Shivani ji beamed at her, placing a hand on her head in a warm blessing.

Nitya ji, looking regal in her own right, turned toward kritika with a questioning glance " Where is ayesha, beta? " she asked, looking around for her eldest daughter-in-law.

" Maa, she’s just on her way she’ll be down any second " kritika replied softly.

While the families continued their warm exchange, advik stood slightly apart from the crowd he was a silent, imposing figure leaning against a marble pillar, looking devastatingly handsome in a charcoal-black tuxedo.

However, his expression was anything but festive his jaw was clenched tight, a muscle pulsing in his cheek and his dark, piercing eyes were scanning the entire hall with a restless intensity he wasn't listening to the music or the laughter his gaze was fixed on the entrance, searching every corner of the room as if hunting for a specific silhouette that had yet to appear.

His patience was fraying at the edges, his restless wait morphing into a deep, agonizing ache.

Then suddenly, a soft rustle at the entrance of the hall drew everyone’s attention, causing heads to turn in unison.

Manvi stood there and the moment advik saw her, his jaw—which had been clenched in a tight line of frustration—instantly relaxed she was draped in a breathtakingly elegant, midnight blue gown that clung to her curves like a second skin.

The gown featured a daring high-slit that flaunted her leg with every graceful step she took, adding a bold, provocative touch to her ethereal beauty.

His eyes darkened instantly, swirling with a primal hunger and an unfiltered obsession for a heartbeat, his heart forgot to beat.

​His eyes roamed over her body slowly, like a predator marking its territory he traced her from head to toe, as if his gaze alone had the power to touch every curve of her silhouette that slit in her gown set his mind ablaze—it was the very same shimmering skin he had hidden under his blazer in the car, but now, in front of the entire hall manvi looked like a striking bolt of lightning.

His grip tightened around his glass, his knuckles turning white as his eyes remained anchored to her bare shoulders and that deep slit he completely forgot he was at a public event; he forgot the presence of his entire family surrounding them.

In that brightly lit hall, only manvi existed for him—and the fire that was about to consume them both.

She felt the weight of his gaze like a physical heat against her skin, making her heart race, but she wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of knowing he affected her.

she intentionally looked right past him she knew exactly how to push his buttons—she wasn't going to play the victim; she was going to be the player with a confident sway of her hips, the midnight blue silk of her gown whispering against her skin, she glided past the pillars and headed straight for ruhaan, who was busy laughing at a joke nearby.

" Ruhaan! " she chirped, her voice dripping with a sweetness that she had strictly denied advik during the entire drive she tucked her arm through her brother’s, leaning her head slightly on his shoulder with an affectionate ease.

" Must say you look handsome tonight! Finally, someone in this venue who doesn't look like they’re planning a corporate takeover "

​Ruhaan laughed, wrapping an arm around his sister’s back and pulling her into a side-hug " And you look like a million bucks, sis but careful, that slit is high enough to give our dad a heart attack "

She let out a soft, musical laugh, her eyes sparkling with mischief out of the corner of her eye, she saw advik he hadn't moved an inch, but his entire aura had shifted from "cold" to "volcanic"

​Even though it was just her brother, the sight of any man’s hand on her back—even a sibling's—was sending advik over the edge his possessiveness didn't follow the rules of logic.

To him, the way she was laughing, the way she was glowing and the way she was being so free with ruhaan while being so cold to him was an insult he couldn't ignore.

​She leaned even closer to ruhaan, adjusting his lapel with a playful touch " Stay with me, okay? I don't want to be left alone with the 'grumpy' side of the family "

​Across the room, the glass in advik’s hand was practically screaming under the pressure of his grip he watched her playful movements, his eyes darkening until they were almost black the fact that she was using her brother as a shield to ignore him made the fire in his chest burn hotter.

​He set his glass down on a passing waiter’s tray with a sharp clink and began to walk toward them, his stride slow, heavy and predatory he didn't care that ruhaan was her brother; he only cared that manvi was his and she was currently pretending he was invisible.

SOMEWHERE
------------------

While the singhania's was drowning in light and laughter, miles away, the atmosphere was hauntingly different.

​High above the city, a man stood on the rooftop of a towering skyscraper he looked like a silhouette carved out of shadow against the crimson sky one hand was shoved deep into his pocket, while the other held a half-burnt cigarette, the smoke curling upward into the cold wind.

His face was a mask of absolute stillness—devoid of emotion, yet his eyes held a terrifying silence It was the kind of silence that precedes a devastating storm, heavy and ominous.

He stared at the setting sun without blinking, watching the light die as if he were savoring the darkness suddenly, the sharp ring of a phone broke the stillness.

Without shifting his gaze from the horizon, he answered.

" Boss... the engagement shivansh singhania is celebrating his union tonight " a voice spoke from the other end, trembling with a mixture of fear and forced respect.

Upon hearing those words, the man’s frozen expression finally cracked a cruel, wicked smirk spread across his lips—a look of pure venom without uttering a single word in response, he cut the call a low, raspy chuckle started in his throat, escalating into a loud, merciless laugh that echoed hollowly against the concrete walls of the rooftop.

​He looked back at the fading sun, his eyes suddenly igniting with a murderous, fiery glow.

" Celebrate while you can, Singhania " he hissed, his voice dripping with malice " Let the world witness your joy tonight, for it is the last breath of peace you will ever know soon, the very shadows you walk on will turn into the flames of your destruction this storm isn't just coming... it's already at your door "

With a sudden, violent movement, he dropped the cigarette and ground it into the floor with his heavy boot, twisting his heel until only ash remained.

​" Just like this... I will crush you beneath my feet until there is nothing left but dust " he muttered to the wind, his voice cold enough to freeze the air.

BACK TO THE VENUE
-----------------------------

In ayesha and ayansh's suite, the sanctuary of their luxury suite, the atmosphere was a stark contrast to the bustling lobby downstairs.

Ayesha was in a state of sheer panic, rushing around to finish her look as she caught her reflection in the full-length gilded mirror, her eyes widened in frustration.

The delicate silk ties of her blouse were dangling loosely down her bare back.

" Of all the times! " she muttered with an irritated growl, her fingers fumbling blindly behind her " I'm already so late, and now this... Ugh, stay still! " She tried again and again, but the knot refused to cooperate, her frustration mounting with every passing second.

Suddenly, the frantic movement stopped and she felt a pair of cold, steady hands settle against the small of her back.

The sudden contact sent a sharp shiver through her frame looking into the mirror, she saw ayansh standing directly behind her he looked devastatingly handsome, dressed in a bespoke black tuxedo that screamed power and luxury.

He stepped closer, his chest pressing against her back and leaned his head down until his lips were hovering just inches from her ear.

His voice came out in a low, velvet-smooth rasp " Are you trying to kill me tonight, wifey? Because walking in on you like this feels like a very beautiful trap "

Her breath hitched and she immediately lowered her gaze, her cheeks flushing a deep shade of crimson " Ansh... " she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

But instead of tying the knot, she felt his fingertips begin to move he wasn't fixing the blouse; he was slowly, provocatively tracing invisible circles across the sensitive skin of her back.

The touch was light, yet it felt like fire " Ansh, please " she pleaded softly, her eyes fluttering shut as she leaned back into him instinctively " Maa and the others are already downstairs waiting please... just tie the knot so we can go "

He let out a soft, deep chuckle that vibrated against her skin he didn't stop the teasing movements of his fingers " Let them wait, wifey the party doesn't truly start until the singhanias walk in... and right now, I’m not in any hurry to share you with the rest of the world "

He finally gripped the two silk threads, but instead of pulling them tight, he used them to pull her even closer to him " Give me one good reason why I should let you leave this room looking this beautiful " he murmured, his gaze locking with hers in the mirror.

He was in no mood to surrender to the ticking clock, but after much pleading and a few sweet, desperate glances from her, he finally gave in with a deep, amused chuckle, he stopped his teasing and gathered the silk threads in his hands.

" Fine, fine " he murmured, his voice thick with a playful surrender " I’ll let the world see you tonight " he began to work on the dori, but as the seconds ticked by, the knot wouldn't form.

He twisted the threads, crossed them, and pulled, but it only resulted in a tangled mess.

" Ansh, please! Tie it quickly " she said, her voice laced with a hint of desperation as she imagined the entire family staring at their watches downstairs.

" I-I’m doing it, hold on " he muttered, his brow furrowing in concentration he looked as focused as if he were closing a multi-million dollar business deal but the silk threads seemed to have a mind of their own.

She watched him through the mirror, her initial impatience turning into confusion she noticed his hands fumbling and the way he was staring at her back as if it were a complex puzzle he couldn't solve.

" Ansh? What’s taking so long? Why haven't you tied it yet? " she asked, turning her head slightly to catch his eye in the reflection.

" Almost... almost done " he replied quickly, his movements becoming more frantic and less coordinated.

She narrowed her eyes, observing his struggling expression and the messy heap of silk in his fingers suddenly, a realization dawned on her and a playful sparkle lit up her eyes.

" Wait a minute, ansh " she started, a teasing smile spreading across her lips " Don't tell me... the great ayansh singhania doesn't know how to tie a simple knot? "

His hands froze instantly he looked up, his gaze meeting hers in the mirror seeing her triumphant, mocking grin, he didn't look embarrassed.

Instead, his eyes darkened and he leaned in closer, his chest brushing against her bare shoulder.

A dangerous, slow smirk played on his lips as he dropped the silk threads entirely " I only know how to untie them, wifey " he whispered, his voice dropping to a husky, bold register " The singhania's don't waste time learning how to put clothes on when we're so much better at taking them off In fact, I’m much more of an expert at unraveling you than I am at keeping you together "

Her laughter died in her throat instantly the playful teasing vanished, replaced by a sudden, intense heat that made her breath hitch her heart hammered against her ribs as she realized that her teasing had just poked a very hungry lion.

The electric tension in the room snapped as her face turned a deep, burning scarlet for a moment, she was completely speechless, her heart drumming a frantic rhythm against her ribs however, realizing they were already perilously late, she took a deep breath and forced herself to regain her composure.

She turned around, clutching the front of her blouse to ensure it stayed in place, and pointed a trembling finger toward the door she tried to give him her most intimidating glare, though her flushed cheeks betrayed her.

" That’s it! Get out, Ayansh! Out of this room right now " she commanded, her voice a mixture of a huff and a whisper " Since you are so 'useless' at being helpful, I’ll call kriti to help me go downstairs and tell maa I’m coming! "

Ayansh, however, didn't move an inch he leaned back against the mahogany doorframe, crossing his arms over his broad chest a playful, wicked glint remained in his eyes as he watched her struggle with her hair and the dori simultaneously.

" And leave you looking like a half-unwrapped gift? " he teased, his voice vibrating with amusement " I don't think so besides, I like watching you get all worked up, wifey It makes those eyes of yours spark in a way that’s much more interesting than a engagement party "

He made a move as if to step back toward her, his smirk widening " Maybe I should stay and 'unravel' the rest of the mystery after all, you said I’m the expert at it "

Her eyes widened realizing he wouldn't listen to words, she marched over to him, her silk heels clicking sharply on the floor with all her strength, she placed her palms against his firm chest and began to shove him toward the hallway.

" You are impossible! Not another word, Ansh! " she cried, finally managing to push the laughing tycoon out of the suite.

She slammed the door shut and leaned her back against it, exhaling a long, shaky breath a small, traitorous smile tugged at her lips despite her annoyance.

She hurried back to the mirror, her heart still racing from his bold teasing taking a deep, grounding breath, she reached behind her once more with a bit of struggle and sheer determination, she finally managed to secure the knot herself.

She took one last moment to fix the fall of her heavy, designer lehenga, ensuring every pleat was perfect and her silhouette looked flawless satisfied, she snatched her phone from the bed, checked her reflection one final time, and rushed out of the suite.

As she entered the grand hall, the sheer opulence of the evening hit her, but she didn't stop to admire it she navigated through the sea of guests with grace, her silk attire shimmering under the chandeliers, until she reached the front of the gathering.

She slipped in beside nitya ji, trying to look as composed as possible despite the lingering blush on her cheeks.

" I'm here, maa " she whispered softly, offering a polite smile to the guests nearby nitya ji gave her a knowing look but nodded approvingly, glad that the eldest daughter-in-law of the singhania house had finally graced the occasion.

As they all gathered their then the music transitioned into a soulful, upbeat rhythm, all eyes turned toward the grand staircase.

Shivansh made his grand entry and the atmosphere in the hall shifted instantly he looked breathtakingly handsome in a custom-tailored, royal ivory sherwani adorned with intricate gold embroidery.

The regal outfit highlighted his tall, athletic frame, making him look every bit the crown prince of the singhania legacy.

For a moment, the entire singhania family stood in stunned silence, their mouths hanging slightly open at the sheer transformation of the family's ' Rebel boy '

" Oh my god... is that actually my brother? ' Ruhaan whispered in complete disbelief, blinking rapidly as if he were seeing a ghost.

" Yeah... it certainly looks like him " manvi added, equally stunned, her eyes wide as she took in her brother’s sophisticated and mature aura.

Shivansh walked with a newfound confidence, a gentle smile playing on his lips as he approached the elders he stopped before nitya ji and priya ji, bowing his head slightly.

Nitya ji, her eyes shimmering with tears of pure joy, reached out and gently touched his face she took a bit of kohl from her own eye and applied a small mark—a kaala teeka—behind his ear to ward off the evil eye.

" My son looks so beautiful today... I can't believe my eyes " nitya ji whispered, her voice choking with emotion.

Shivansh let out a soft laugh, his characteristic wit returning " Ohho, Maa! You mean I look 'handsome' right? 'Beautiful' is for shivi ji! "

The family erupted into light laughter, the tension finally breaking as they surrounded the groom-to-be.

Just as the laughter from his joke began to fade, the vibrant music suddenly cut off the grand chandeliers dimmed in a synchronized wave, plunging the hall into a soft, velvety twilight a collective gasp rippled through the guests as a single, powerful spotlight ignited, focusing its beam at the top of the grand marble staircase.

Then, she appeared.

Shivi made her entrance and for a moment, it felt as though the very air in the room had vanished she was a vision of ethereal beauty, draped in a heavy, traditional red and gold lehenga that sparkled like a thousand suns under the spotlight the intricate embroidery shimmered with every step she took, her veil trailing behind her like a royal cloud.

Her jewelry—a kundan set that glowed against her skin—framed a face that was radiant with a mixture of shyness and grace.

Shivansh, who had been joking just seconds ago, froze completely his hand, which had been adjusting his cuff, went limp at his side he didn't blink; he didn't breathe his eyes were locked on her, and for the first time in his life, the ' cool singhania ' looked completely and utterly defenseless.

" Wow " Ruhaan whispered, but even his voice was drowned out by the heavy silence of the mesmerized crowd.

Shivi began her descent, the soft sound of her payal (anklets) echoing through the silent hall every step she took closer to the stage seemed to make his heart beat louder he felt a nudge from ruhaan, who was watching with a rare, small smile of approval, but shivansh didn't move.

He was a man possessed, watching his entire world walk down those stairs toward him.

As she reached the final step, she lifted her gaze and met his the blush that crept up her neck was visible even under the dim lights and the soft smile she gave him made him feel like he was the only man left on earth.

He stepped forward, his heart hammering against his ribs as he reached out his hand shivi shyly placed her delicate, henna-adorned hand in his, and the touch sent a jolt of electricity through him as he began to lead her toward the center stage, his gaze instinctively drifted.

The design of her lehenga featured a deep-cut blouse that left her waist completely exposed, showcasing her slender curves and glowing skin.

His eyes seemed to get anchored there, his pupils dilating as he watched the rhythmic sway of her hips with every step she took.

Feeling the sheer weight of his intense, heavy gaze, she glanced at him from the corner of her eyes her breath hitched, and she whispered softly " What... what are you looking at so intently? "

" Your waist " he blurted out, his filter completely gone, his mind lost in the curve of her body.

" W-What? " she stammered, her voice trembling with shyness her cheeks instantly flared into a deep, burning crimson, and she looked down, unable to hold his gaze.

The sound of her voice snapped him back to reality he realized exactly what he had just admitted, but seeing the way she was blushing—looking like a beautiful, ripe rose—a wicked, playful smirk spread across his lips.

The 'flirty boy' in him woke up instantly as they reached the stage, he leaned in slightly closer to her ear and began to hum, his voice a low, teasing rasp.

" Matki hai dil ye mera, maaro na kankariya... Patli kamariya, unchi dagariya, itna na hilo baby, hilega nagariya! "

As the playful lyrics left his lips, shivi felt a wave of heat rush through her entire body she was so overwhelmed by shyness that she felt like she might melt right there on the stage her heart was thumping so loudly she was sure the guests could hear it over the music.

In a desperate, instinctive move to shield herself from his hungry, unyielding gaze, she tried to pull the edge of her sheer dupatta over her waist her fingers fumbled with the delicate fabric, her movements hurried and adorably flustered as she sought to cover the skin that he was devouring with his eyes.

" Shivansh ji, stop it! " she whispered, her voice a breathless plea she kept her head down, her long lashes shadowing her flushed cheeks, but she could still feel his eyes tracing every curve, refuse to let her hide.

He noticed her struggle and let out a low, husky chuckle Instead of looking away, he leaned in even closer, his shoulder brushing hers, his gaze only growing darker and more possessive.

" You can try to hide it shivi ji " he murmured, his voice vibrating with a dangerous charm that made her knees weak " But you can't hide from the fact that my eyes—and my heart—have already marked every inch of you the more you blush, the harder it is for me to look away "

Her breath hitched she realized that her attempts to hide were only making him more amused and more focused on her she finally gave up on the dupatta and looked up at him, her eyes wide and shimmering with a mix of love and sheer embarrassment, while shivansh stood there looking like a king who had just conquered his greatest prize.

                           *

The atmosphere in the grand ballroom had reached a fever pitch the scent of fresh jasmine and expensive lilies was everywhere and the golden lights made everything feel like a dream.

In the center of the hall stood the magnificent stage, decorated with white orchids and gold drapes.

Everyone’s eyes were fixed on shivansh and shivi, who looked like a royal couple from a fairytale.

As the ceremony officially began, the music softened into a soulful melody ayesha walked gracefully toward shivansh, holding a silver tray covered in blue velvet on it lay a brilliant diamond ring that sparkled like a star.

She smiled at shivansh, her eyes full of sisterly love, whispering " It's time, shivansh "

On the other side, Kritika stepped up next to shivi she held a gold tray with a sleek, sophisticated platinum band for shivansh she gave shivi a small, encouraging nod, noticing how shivi’s hands were trembling slightly with excitement and nerves.

Shivansh turned toward shivi and for the first time, the constant joker of the family looked deeply serious he took her hand gently her skin was cold, but his touch was warm and steady.

" Shivi ji, " he said, his voice echoing softly in the quiet hall " I used to think that being free was everything but looking at you, I realize that being yours is the only freedom I ever want this ring isn't just a piece of jewelry; it’s my heart and I’m placing it in your hands today "

It was a beautiful, emotional moment and a few guests even wiped away tears but of course, the silence didn't last long.

" Arre bhai, emotional hona band karo aur jaldi pehnao! " Ruhaan shouted from the side, a mischievous grin on his face " Wait mat karwao, varna shivi bhabhiii apna dimaag badal lengi! "

( Bhai stop being emotional and put it on! Don't make her wait or she might change her mind )

The guests burst into laughter, breaking the tension shivansh glared playfully at his brother, then slowly slid the diamond onto shivi’s finger the fit was perfect.

Now it was shivi’s turn she picked up the platinum band from Kritika’s tray she looked up at shivansh, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

" Shivansh ji you brought colors into my very quiet world " she said softly, her voice sweet and sincere " I promise to be your strength when you are tired and your laughter when you are sad I am so proud to be yours "

As she slowly pushed the ring onto his finger, the crowd couldn't contain their excitement anymore " He's caught! The lion is finally caged! " Ruhaan yelled, jumping up and down, leading the applause.

Suddenly, a shower of thousands of fresh rose petals fell from the ceiling red, pink and white petals swirled around the couple like a beautiful storm and the music became loud and festive.

Shivansh pulled shivi into a side hug, his hand resting possessively on her waist he leaned down and whispered into her ear " Now you’re officially stuck with me, Mrs. Singhania-to-be. No escape now "

Shivi blushed a deep scarlet, hiding her face against his shoulder as the family rushed onto the stage to hug them.

Nitya ji kissed both their foreheads and ayansh clapped shivansh on the back, looking truly happy for his younger brother It was a moment filled with pure, unfiltered happiness, where every heart in the room beat as one.

The celebration was at its peak the hall was filled with the sound of laughter, music and the clinking of glasses.

Shivansh and shivi were surrounded by guests, but ayesha, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the crowd, decided to step down she walked toward a quieter corner near the floral decorations to catch her breath.

Just then, the phone in her hand began to vibrate and ring In her hurry to leave the room earlier, without checking the screen, she swiped to answer, thinking it might be a caterer or a family member.

Before she could even say 'Hello' a cold, gritty voice spoke from the other end.

" Boss, the job is done kashyap is dead we handled it exactly like you wanted—no witnesses, no trail It looked like a clean accident "

Ayesha’s heart skipped a beat her blood ran cold as she froze in her tracks she didn't breathe, her eyes widening in shock.

" I’ve already sent the encrypted file with all the details about his son to your private server " the voice continued, sounding disturbingly casual " The kid is being tracked just give the word and we’ll take him out too boss? You there? Hello? "

She slowly pulled the phone away from her ear, her hands trembling violently she looked at the screen and realized it wasn't her phone—it was ayansh’s.

The realization hit her like a physical blow her husband, the man who was just teasing her in their bedroom, was being called 'Boss' by an assassin.

" Boss! Are you on the line? The police are moving, we need the next set of instructions " the man on the phone urged.

She finally snapped out of her trance her breath was coming in short, jagged gasps she slowly looked up and scanned the crowded hall, her eyes searching for one person and finally she found him.

Ayansh was standing near the bar, looking calm and authoritative as he spoke with Rudra he looked every bit the sophisticated businessman.

As if sensing her gaze, ayansh turned his head his eyes locked onto hers across the room at first, his expression was neutral, but as he observed her face—pale, devoid of expression and her hands visibly shaking while holding his phone—his features shifted.

His eyes narrowed, turning sharp and intense he saw the sheer terror and the growing curiosity in her eyes the mask of the loving husband started to slip, replaced by the cold, calculated look of a man whose darkest secret had just been intercepted he realized in that second that the bridge between his two worlds had just collapsed.

He didn't say a word to rudra he simply started moving toward her, his stride fast and purposeful, his eyes locked on her like a predator who had just seen his prize slip.

She saw him coming she saw the darkness in his eyes—a look she had never seen before—and it terrified her more than the voice on the phone her heart hammered against her ribs like a trapped bird she couldn't breathe, couldn't think.

All she knew was that she had to get away.

She turned on her heel and bolted she ignored the confused glances of the guests as she wove through the crowd her heavy lehenga felt like a weight dragging her down, but adrenaline pushed her forward she burst through the side exit of the hall, the cool night air hitting her face but she didn't stop.

She ran toward the secluded garden area, her breath coming in ragged sobs behind her, she heard the heavy, rhythmic sound of footsteps ayansh was right behind her.

" Ayesha! Stop! " his voice boomed through the quiet night, no longer sweet or teasing but commanding and sharp.

She didn't listen she stumbled into the shadows of the gazebo, her heels sinking into the grass finally, her strength gave out she leaned against a marble pillar, clutching the phone to her chest as if it were a bomb.

Within seconds, a shadow loomed over her ayansh stepped into the dim light of the garden lamps he wasn't even out of breath, but his face was a mask of cold fury and something else—perhaps regret.

" Give me the phone, Ayesha " he said, his voice dropping to a dangerously low whisper he took a step closer, trapping her between his body and the pillar.

She looked up at him, tears streaming down her face, her voice trembling.

" Who was that, Ansh? Who is Kashyap? Why did that man say... why did he say you killed him? "

He didn't flinch he reached out, his hand hovering near her face, but she flinched away from his touch his jaw tightened " You weren't supposed to see this side of me you were supposed to stay in the light, ayesha but now that you've listened... there's no going back "

He leaned in closer, his aura suffocating her " Now, give me the phone before you hear something else that will haunt you forever "

She watched him, her heart heavy with fear and confusion and without saying a word, she slowly extended her hand and returned the phone to him her fingers brushed against his and she felt a cold shiver run down her spine.

Despite the terror, the burning curiosity inside her was too strong to ignore she couldn't keep quiet.

" Ansh, please... tell me " she whispered, her voice cracking " What was that? Who were those people? What did that man mean when he said the job is done? I deserve to know the truth "

He didn't respond immediately he took the phone and tucked it away, his expression becoming eerily calm he looked at her with a face that revealed nothing—no guilt, no anger, just a chilling stillness.

She stepped closer, her eyes searching his for any sign of the man she thought she knew " Answer me, Ayansh! Who are you really? "

Finally, he moved he stepped into her personal space, his presence overwhelming he reached out and gently cupped her face with his hand, his thumb tracing her cheekbone for a moment, his touch was as soft as it had been in their bedroom.

He leaned down and pressed a long, lingering kiss on her forehead.

Then, he rested his forehead against hers, closing his eyes they stood there in the shadows of the garden, their breaths mingling she could feel the tension radiating from his body.

He took a deep, heavy breath and finally spoke in a voice so low it was almost a ghost of a whisper.

" The world sees me as a businessman, ayesha... but that is only a mask " he murmured " The truth is much darker I am the head of the singhania crime syndicate "

The word hung in the air like a death sentence her breath hitched and the world seemed to tilt on its axis the man she loved, the man she had just seen celebrating his brother's engagement, was the very definition of the danger she had always feared.

She pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes, her breath coming in shallow gasps she searched his face, hoping she had misheard him or that this was all just a dark joke.

" Ansh... tell me clearly " she whispered, her voice trembling " Are you... are you really involved with the Mafia? "

Hearing her question and seeing the pure innocence in her wide eyes, he couldn't restrain himself a slow, dark smirk spread across his lips—a look that was both dangerous and devastatingly handsome.

He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a gravelly, dominant tone.

" No, wifey," he corrected her softly " I am not 'with' the Mafia. I am the Mafia "

The weight of his words hit her like a physical force her heart skipped several beats and her mind went blank with shock stunned, she instinctively took a few steps back, her heels clicking on the stone path as she tried to put some distance between herself and this dangerous stranger who was also her husband.

Seeing her retreat, the smirk instantly vanished from his face his jaw tightened and a flash of vulnerability—perhaps the fear of losing her—flickered in his dark eyes.

She stood there for a long moment, staring at him but then, she tilted her head, her expression shifting from fear to something unexpected a small, thoughtful smile played on her lips.

" So... " she started, her voice regaining its strength " Does that mean... I am the Mafia Queen? "

The tension that had been suffocating him evaporated instantly he let out a long, heavy sigh of relief, a soft chuckle escaping his throat he reached out and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her back into his arms with a firm, possessive jerk.

" haan, biwi " he murmured against her lips, his eyes burning with a mix of relief and intense passion " You are the only Queen of this dark world. My Mafia Queen "

She looked at him, a faint, small smile tugging at her lips as she processed her new reality but the smile didn't reach her eyes the weight of the phone call she had overheard came rushing back, and her expression turned serious, almost pained.

She looked up into his dark, intense eyes, her voice barely a whisper " Ansh... the person you just ordered to be killed... who was he? Did you just take the life of an innocent man? "

Her heart hammered against her ribs as she waited for his answer she could accept his power, but she needed to know if the man she loved was a cold-blooded monster or a man with a code.

His gaze didn't waver his grip on her waist remained firm, but his expression softened just a fraction he looked at her with a terrifyingly calm clarity.

" I don't kill for fun, ayesha " he said, his voice cold and steady " Kashyap wasn't innocent he was a traitor who was selling our family's secrets to people who wanted to destroy us—who wanted to hurt you In my world, innocence is rare, but I never spill blood without a reason "

He leaned in, his forehead resting against hers again " I am a shield for those I love, but I am a nightmare for those who threaten them does that answer your question, my Queen? "

She looked at him, seeing the darkness and the protective fire in his eyes she realized that being a mafia queen meant more than just a title; it meant standing beside a man who walked through shadows to keep her in the light.

She looked deep into his eyes, searching for any sign of hesitation, but she only found a fierce, protective resolve she realized that the luxury and safety her family enjoyed were built on the silent battles ayansh fought in the shadows.

​She let out a long breath she didn't know she was holding and placed her hands over his, which were still resting on her waist.

​" I don't know this world of yours, Ansh " she said softly but firmly " And it scares me but I know you I know you would never do anything to hurt our family If you say he was a threat, I trust your judgment "

A look of pure, raw devotion crossed his face he had expected her to scream, to cry, or to leave him, but her trust was the one thing he hadn't dared to hope for he pressed a firm, thankful kiss to her hand.

She smiled through her lingering fear, but his expression suddenly turned very serious he tightened his grip on her waist, pulling her flush against him.

​" Ayesha " he began, his voice thick with emotion " the way you ran away from me today... the fear I saw in your eyes... I never want to see that again do you understand? No matter what you hear or what you see, never run away from me I won't be able to breathe if there is distance between us I can't live without you "

He pulled her so close that she could feel the frantic thrumming of his heart against her chest " Don't ever try to put distance between us you are the only thing that keeps me human, Ayesha If you ever leave, I won't just 'not live'—I will burn this entire world to the ground just to find the ashes you walked on "

​Tears welled up in her eyes at the sheer weight of his obsession she reached up, cupping his face and pressed a gentle, soulful kiss on his forehead.

​" I promise, Ansh " she whispered, hugging him with all her strength " I will never leave you I am yours even if I tried to run—"

His grip tightened until it was almost painful, his face buried in the crook of her neck " If you even think about running " he growled, his voice vibrating with a dark, obsessive hunger " I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth I will chain your soul to mine there is no heaven or hell that can hide you from me, ayesha you are my life's only obsession and I don't let go of what is mine "

She let out a small, emotional chuckle, strangely comforted by his dark devotion she squeezed him one last time before they finally broke the embrace.

She took a moment to fix her dupatta and wiped the stray tear from her cheek she put on her singhania mask—the one of a graceful, confident elder daughter-in-law.

​" Now, let's go back " she said, her voice regaining its royal poise " It’s shivansh’s big night and we’ve been missing for too long but remember, Ansh... no more secrets between us If I am the queen, I want to know when my king is at war "

​Ayansh gave her a proud, wicked smirk and offered his arm " As you wish, my Queen "

​They walked back into the grand hall together, looking like the most perfect, powerful couple in the room no one would ever guess that just minutes ago, the foundation of their marriage had shifted forever.

                              *

As they re-entered the grand hall, the music had shifted to a softer lounge beat ayesha felt a slight dryness in her throat from the adrenaline, so she leaned toward him.

​" Ansh, I need something cold to drink " she whispered.

He nodded, his hand never leaving the small of her back as he guided her toward the luxurious marble bar. Standing there was advik, looking effortlessly sharp as he swirled a glass of expensive whiskey.

He looked like the definition of calm, but his eyes were always scanning the room, like a soldier on duty.

​" Hi, Advik " she said, her voice a bit shaky.

​Advik took a slow sip of his drink and turned his head toward her a small, knowing glint appeared in his eyes.

" Finally " he said, his voice smooth as silk " I was wondering how much longer it would take for you to find out exactly who your husband is "

Her heart skipped a beat she looked at ayansh, whose face was like carved stone—no guilt, no surprise then she looked back at advik, her shock written all over her face " How... how did you know I knew? "

​Advik let out a dry, low chuckle that sounded like shifting gravel " Bhabhi, I watched you run out of this hall like you’d seen a ghost, clutching his phone like it was a ticking bomb In this family, we don't miss details like that I knew the second you heard that call, your world changed "

She took a deep breath, trying to process that the 'family business' was far more dangerous than she ever imagined she looked at advik intensely " And you? Are you also... part of this Mafia world? "

He didn't say yes and he didn't say no he simply raised his glass in a silent toast, a dark, wicked smirk spreading across his lips that smirk was his answer—it was the mark of a man who lived in the shadows.

​Just then, the bartender placed a glass of fresh juice in front of ayesha she took a sip, the cool liquid helping her find her voice.

​Advik leaned in a little closer, his gaze shifting to ayansh before looking back at her " You have to understand something, ayesha you aren't just married to a powerful man you don't truly know him yet "

​He paused for effect, his voice dropping to a serious, heavy tone " He isn't just a mafia he is the emperor the one who sits on the throne while others tremble he is the Badshah of the underworld, and the world moves according to his whim "

​Ayansh didn't look away Instead, a slow, proud smirk mirrored advik’s he picked up his own glass and clinked it against advik's with a sharp, resonant sound " Cheers to the truth " ayansh murmured, his voice thick with a cold, commanding authority that made her skin tingle.

She watched the two of them—the king and his general for a moment, she was silent, but then, a daring, mischievous spark lit up her eyes she wasn't going to be intimidated If he was the king, she was the one who wore the crown.

​" I see " she said, her voice now steady and playful " Well, excuse me 'Your Majesty' I need to see maa "

​She set her juice down and turned to walk away but after just three steps, she decided to test her king she purposely let her foot catch the heavy, flared hem of her designer lehenga she swayed slightly, pretending to lose her balance.

And ​in an instant—faster than the eye could see—Ayansh was there his powerful arm locked around her waist, pulling her back against his hard chest.

His breath was warm against her ear as he whispered " Careful, Ayesha I’ve got you are you okay? "

She looked up at him, her eyes dancing with mischief " I'm fine, Ansh It’s just... this lehenga is so heavy, it kept getting caught under my heels I don't think I can walk properly like this "

​She batted her eyelashes innocently " Would you mind holding the end of my lehenga for me while we walk? "

Without a single word of protest, ayansh—the man they called the emperor of the underworld—bent down In front of the hidden eyes of his associates and the elite guests, he gathered the gold-embroidered end of her lehenga in his hand.

He stood up, holding her heavy trail with one hand while keeping the other firmly on her waist to guide her.

​As they began their royal walk toward nitya ji, she looked at him from the corner of her eye, her heart dancing with triumph.

She began to hum a tune and then, in a voice full of sweet defiance, she sang softly for him.

​" Meri salaami kar le, meri gulaami kar le... hoga tu, hoga koi Badshah! "

His tightened his grip on her waist, his fingers digging slightly into her skin, reminding her exactly who he was then a deep, dark chuckle vibrated through his chest, sounding like a beautiful, dangerous melody.

He didn’t mind the 'slavery' she teased him about; in fact, he thrived in it when it came to her.

​He leaned down, his lips brushing against the shell of her ear, sending a fresh wave of shivers down her spine.

His voice was a low, velvet growl as he whispered back, finishing her challenge with one of his own.

​" Salami bhi aapki hogi, gulami bhi aapki... Par is jahan mein, har saans sirf meri hogi "

(The salute will be yours, the slavery will be yours... But in this world, every breath you take will belong only to me)

Her breath hitched the way he said it—so possessive, so certain—made her heart flutter with a mix of fear and an intoxicating thrill she looked ahead, her head held high, while the 'Badshah' of the underworld walked behind her, humbly carrying the trail of her lehenga like a devoted servant, yet marking his territory with every word.

Advik, who was still leaning against the bar and sipping his whiskey, caught every single word of ayesha’s cheeky song as he watched the most feared man in the city—the man who could topple empires with a single phone call—bent down to pick up his wife’s lehenga.

He couldn’t help but react a slow, genuine smirk spread across his face, and he let out a short, amused breath he looked at ayesha with a newfound sense of respect he had always known she was graceful, but he hadn't realized she had the 'singhania' fire in her—the kind of guts it took to look the king of the underworld in the eye and demand his service.

​" Well played bhabhi " he murmured to himself, his eyes dancing with dark amusement " You’re the only person on this planet who could make the emperor of shadows look like a palace guard " He shook his head slightly, his smirk never fading. 

He was still lost in his thoughts, his eyes following the power couple, when a familiar scent of vanilla and jasmine drifted toward him before he could even turn, a sharp, confident voice rang out beside him.

​" One vodka cranberry, please neat " she said, tapping her fingers on the marble counter without even glancing at the man standing next to her.

​The moment the words left her lips, his amused smirk vanished instantly his playful mood evaporated, replaced by a sudden, sharp tension his jaw clenched so hard a small muscle pulsed in his cheek he slowly set his whiskey glass down and turned his entire body toward her, his shadow looming over her petite frame.

​He leaned in close, his voice dropping into a low, commanding tone that brooked no argument " You aren't drinking that cancel the order " he said, his eyes boring into hers " Get her a fresh orange juice. No ice "

She froze for a split second before letting out a loud, disbelieving scoff she turned toward him, her eyes flashing with defiance as she tossed her hair back she didn't back down; instead, she stepped into his space, her chin tilted up.

​" Excuse me? " she snapped, her voice dripping with sarcasm " Who do you think you are, Advik? Since when did you start deciding what goes into my glass? You don't get to give me orders on what I should or shouldn't drink I'm not one of your whores! "

He didn't flinch he leaned in even closer until their noses were almost touching, his gaze darkening with a possessive intensity that made her heart gallop against her ribs.

​" I’m the man who doesn't want to deal with a hungover version of you tomorrow " he whispered, his voice dangerously smooth " And more importantly, I’m the man who said 'no' that should be enough for you, babygirl "
She gave a dry, angry laugh, her face turning a pretty shade of pink from the sheer audacity of his tone.

" Well, newsflash, Mr. Devil it’s not enough not even close barking orders might work for your whores, but it doesn't work on me! "

The tension between them was thick enough to cut with a knife manvi, fueled by a sudden surge of rebellious energy, didn’t look away Instead, she reached out and grabbed the glass of vodka cranberry that the bartender had just placed on the counter.

She tilted her head back and took a long, slow sip, her eyes locked onto his the entire time It was a clear declaration of war.

His reaction was immediate his fist clenched so tightly on the marble countertop that his knuckles turned bone-white his breathing became heavy, his chest rising and falling as he tried to control the fire burning inside him.

She noticed she felt a rush of power seeing him lose his composure her gaze began to wander—tracing the sharp line of his jaw, moving down to his stony lips and then lingering on the pulse point of his neck, which was thumping rapidly.

A sudden, intoxicating heat clawed at her insides she realized exactly how much of an effect she had on him and she decided to push him over the edge with a calculated, wicked movement, she 'accidentally' tilted the glass a few drops of the dark red liquid spilled onto her skin, trickling down toward her cleavage.

" Oh, look at that... how clumsy of me " she whispered, her voice like velvet she didn't look flustered; instead, she used her index finger to slowly trace the path of the spill, pretending to clean it while her eyes never left his.

" I should probably go clean this up " she murmured, a triumphant smirk playing on her lips she set the glass down, gave him a lingering, sultry look, and excused herself, walking away with a rhythmic sway of her hips toward the empty, dim-lit hallway leading to the balcony.

She didn't get very far as soon as she stepped into the shadows of the quiet hall, a strong, powerful arm suddenly snaked around her waist before she could even let out a gasp, she was jerked backward and pinned hard against the cold wall.

The impact made her breath hitch she looked up to find advik looming over her, his body pressed firmly against hers the 'cool and collected' advik was gone; in his place was a man whose eyes were burning with a dark, untamed hunger.

" You think you're playing a game, babygirl? " he rasped, his voice vibrating against her skin as he trapped her between the wall and his arms " You think you can provoke me like that and just walk away? "

The air in the secluded hallway turned scorching hot manvi, despite her heart racing like a runaway train, refused to show even a hint of fear she let out a soft, provocative laugh, her fingers reaching up to toy with the collar of his suit.

​" What's the matter, advik? " she whispered, leaning her head back against the wall to expose the elegant curve of her throat " Did I touch a nerve? Or is the devil finally losing his mind over a little spilled juice? "

​She was testing him, pushing every boundary to see exactly how far his control would snap she didn't have to wait long.

His eyes turned pitch black, the last shred of his patience evaporating into thin air he didn't waste time with words Instead, he groaned—a low, animalistic sound—and dipped his head.

​Without warning, he pressed his lips directly onto her skin, right where the dark red liquid had spilled her entire body jolted as she felt the searing heat of his mouth he wasn't just cleaning the spill; he was marking her.

He began to suck the skin of her cleavage with a desperate, hungry intensity, his tongue tracing the path of the juice while his teeth grazed her lightly.

​A sharp, jagged gasp escaped her lips her hands, which had been teasing him a moment ago, now dug into his shoulders, her nails clawing through the expensive fabric of his blazer the sensation was overwhelming—a mix of raw power and undeniable claim.

​" A-ad-dvik..." she choked out, her head spinning.

​He didn't stop he moved with a feverish hunger, his stubble grazing her sensitive skin as he claimed every drop of the spill and then some he was making it clear that she couldn't play with fire and expect not to get burned.

He shift his lips from her chest, trailing scorching kisses up the column of her neck, then along her sharp jawline, his stubble creating a friction that made her toes curl just as she thought he would kiss her lips, he dove back down, burying his face in her cleavage once more.

​He didn't just linger this time he pushed his tongue deep between her breasts, tasting the sweetness of the drink mixed with the scent of her perfume.

Then, without warning, he bit her skin hard, marking the soft curve with his teeth.

​" Ahh! " she hissed, a sharp intake of breath escaping her as a jolt of pain and pleasure shot through her body.

She looked down at his dark head, her face flushed a deep crimson " K-kitne badtameez aur besharam ho tum! "

He slowly lifted his head, his eyes dark with a dangerous, heavy lid he didn't look ashamed at all; he looked like a man who had finally found exactly what he was looking for a dark, crooked smirk played on his lips as he saw the bite mark he had left on her skin.

​He leaned in, his lips hovering just a fraction away from her ear and mumbled in a low, husky rasp that vibrated deep in her chest ​" Toh phir... biwi banke sudhaar do na babygirl "

(Then... why don't you become my wife and fix me babygirl?)

Her heart stopped the world around them seemed to go silent she stared at him, her lips parted in shock, her pulse thundering in her ears she had expected a retort, a challenge, even another kiss—but she hadn't expected him to go straight for the heart of the matter.

​Advik didn't back down he kept her pinned, his gaze intense and unwavering, waiting for her to realize that he wasn't playing the game anymore—he was playing for keeps.

Her breath was still ragged and the heat of his bite was still stinging her skin, but the moment the word 'wife' left his lips, something inside her snapped back to reality she wasn't a girl who could be tamed with a few heated touches and a possessive whisper.

She looked him dead in the eye, her expression shifting from dazed desire to a cold, sharp brilliance with a sudden burst of strength, she placed her palms against his chest and pushed him back just enough to create a gap between them.

A slow, mocking smirk spread across her lips as she straightened her blouse, pointedly ignoring the dark mark he had left behind.

" Wife? Seriously, Advik? " she said, her voice dripping with honeyed sarcasm " You think because you can make my knees weak in a dark hallway, I’m ready to sign a life sentence with you? You’re delusional "

She stepped closer again, but this time she was the one in control she reached out and patted his cheek twice—a gesture that was patronizing and bold.

" I like the 'badtameez' version of you, advik It’s entertaining but don't confuse my curiosity for commitment I’m not a project for you to fix and I’m certainly not looking for a husband who thinks he can own me just by marking me "

She leaned into his ear, her voice a chillingly sweet whisper " Keep the 'biwi' dreams for someone who actually wants a cage. I prefer the wild "

With that, she turned on her heel and walked away, her head held high and her gait perfectly steady, leaving him standing in the shadows of the hallway he was left alone with the scent of her perfume on his skin and the stinging realization that he had finally met the one woman who could look the 'singhania' power in the eye and say no.

As she turned on her heel and walked away with that sharp, icy rejection, she expected advik to be fuming or perhaps crushed but instead of the sound of a frustrated sigh, she heard a low, melodic chuckle that made her stop in her tracks.

Advik leaned back against the wall, crossing his arms over his broad chest a dark, slow smirk spread across his face—the kind of look that said he had just discovered a challenge he was going to enjoy winning.

" Wild, huh? " he called out, his voice smooth and incredibly confident " I like wild, babygirl In fact, I’ve never been a fan of anything that’s easy to tame. It’s boring "

He began to walk toward her, his footsteps slow and rhythmic he didn't look like a man who had just been rejected; he looked like a predator who was amused by the prey's attempt to run he stopped just behind her, not touching her, but letting his shadow fall over her.

" You can call me delusional all you want " he whispered, his smirk widening as he saw the way her shoulders tensed at his proximity " But we both know that your body was saying 'yes' while your mouth was saying 'no' You think you’re free? You’ve been trapped since the moment I marked you "

He reached out and tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, his fingers grazing her skin just enough to remind her of the heat from moments ago.

" Run all you want babygirl enjoy your 'wild' phase but remember one thing about the devil—we don't just find what we want we take it and right now? I’ve never wanted anything more than I want you "

He gave her one last, piercing look that promised a long and dangerous game before he turned and walked past her back toward the hall, whistling a low tune he had let her have the last word, but he was the one walking away with the win.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How's the chapter moon ✨

Do likes and comments ok 🌙

Jaldi hi wapas aayungi ek new chapter ke sath tab tak tata :)

💗