Author's POV

The soft golden rays of early morning filtered gently through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow upon the luxurious bedroom. The light slowly spread across kissing Saanvi delicate face where she lay eyes half-closed, body lazily curled under the soft blanket like a spoiled kitten.

But unlike most mornings, today her heart felt heavy.

Because today Rajveer was leaving.

A whole month.

She turned slowly, her soft fingers instinctively reaching across the bed searching for him and there he was.

Her husband.

Lying beside her, bare-chested, hair messy, a sleepy frown on his handsome face as he slowly blinked open those dark eyes. His arms, possessive even in sleep, had curled around the pillow.

"Jaan ," his raspy morning voice came, half-asleep, pulling her back into the blankets, "come here why did you leave my arms?"

A soft giggle escaped her lips as she wriggled back beside him, resting her cheek on his warm chest hearing the strong beat of his heart, the same heart that would be far away tomorrow.

"To find my dino , Mmm when you go today," she murmured sleepily, her breath soft against his skin, "I'll cuddle my Dino baby".

The moment the words left her mouth, Raj eyes shot wide open.

What did she just say?

His sharp jaw clenched, sleep flew from his eyes in a second.

Dino baby

That ridiculous, fat, green, overstuffed dinosaur she had since She married him the one she hugged whenever she felt upset. The same useless toy.

His rival.

His enemy.

Rajveer slowly turned, locking his dark, dangerous eyes on her mischievous, sleepy face.

"You'll what? "he asked lowly, voice dangerously soft.

She grinned innocently, her eyes fluttering as if nothing had happened.

"I'll cuddle my Dino baby sleep hugging him because he doesn't leave me for one whole month like you will ," she whispered, nestling into the crook of his neck.

Rajveer gritted his teeth.

This woman.

His own wife.

Threatening him with that devil green creature on his last morning?

He gripped her chin gently but firmly, making her face him. "Say it again sweetheart I dare you."

"Jealous of Dino baby now, Mr. Akdu Rajawat ?" she teased.

"Yes! Yes, I am jealous". Rajveer growled playfully, pulling her so close her soft curves melted into him. "I hate that stupid dinosaur That fat, smug toy thinks he can replace me when I'm gone Never."

Saanvi burst out laughing, her hands pressing to his bare chest.

"But Dino is soft warm and never leaves me for boring business trips," she whispered.

His eyes darkened dangerously.

"Unbelievable. First my jaan now even my bed all stolen by that green idiot." Rajveer

shook his head dramatically.

"What next? Will you feed him chocolate? Whisper your dreams into his ear? Kiss him goodnight?"

Saanvi laughed harder, biting her lip. "Maybe".

"Don't. You. Dare." He rolled swiftly, caging her under him, pinning her wrists above her head his sinful smirk curving as he hovered above her gorgeous face. "Say that again and I swear I'll cancel this trip right now, lock this room and make you forget the word 'Dino' forever."

Her breath caught.

"R-Raj"

His lips brushed her jaw, her pulse fluttering madly under his mouth. "I'll burn that stupid dino in the garden when I return. You'll watch. Sitting on my lap. As punishment."

Her mouth fell open in shock. "What did he ever do to you?"

"He breathes my air. That's enough crime for a lifetime."

She burst into giggles, squirming under him, "You're impossible sometimes ."

"Impossible and irresistible," he muttered against her soft cheek, giving it a teasing nip, making her gasp.

she hit his chest weakly. "You're jealous of a freaking toy."

"Because no toy kisses you touches you makes you moan my name at night," he whispered wickedly into her ear.

She blushed instantly, turning her face. "Kya karu mei apka"

"Pyaar Karo apne pati ko jitna kar skti ho jaan," he grinned. "And Only you make me mad enough to fight a stuffed dinosaur."

Saanvi covered her mouth, laughing sweetly. "I should cuddle him tonight to make you suffer".

Rajveer's eyes darkened. "Try it, baby. I'll skip the trip lock this door shut and keep you here for the whole month. Naked in these sheets. Begging to be touched."

Her cheeks turned crimson. "Raj stop saying dirty things in morning"

"No stopping," he smirked, leaning down to kiss her slowly deeply a possessive kiss that stole her breath. "You're mine. Every part of you. Not even that stupid green devil gets to touch my space. My side of the bed is sacred, Mrs. Rajawat."

She melted into the kiss, clutching his biceps.

"I love you, Raj "

"And I love you more, baby. More than life and a million times more than that dino idiot."

She giggled against his chest, her worries fading in his arms.

As The clock ticked softly in the background.

"Now get up," she murmured against his chest, poking his side with a mischievous finger. "You have to pack your suitcase you're leaving today, remember?"

Raj groaned, tightening his arms around her waist pulling her even closer onto his bare chest.

"Baby you forgot your husband is a billionaire," he replied in a deep, lazy morning voice, eyes still half-lidded with sleep as a cocky smirk tugged at his lips.

His fingers trailed down her back slowly. "I don't pack people do it for me. Staff. Managers. Secretaries. You married a man who owns half the city."

Saanvi gasped softly as he suddenly grabbed her waist and with a swift, possessive pull, made her straddle him properly her knees on either side of his hips.

She squeaked in surprise as she landed on top of him, her soft body pressed perfectly against his. His sinful, sleepy eyes roamed over her like slow fire.

"And beside ," he whispered huskily, tugging at the hem of the shirt she wore his shirt, the one that hung loose on her delicate frame, brushing against her bare thighs the very sight driving him insane, "you're wearing my shirt, baby. I have the right to unbutton it whenever I want especially when you look this tempting first thing in the morning."

His fingers grazed the first button, ready to slip it open.

But Saanvi caught his wrist in time, glaring down at him like an angry kitten sitting on his chest.

"Get up in five seconds," she warned sweetly, a deadly smile on her lips, "Or I swear I'll burn your precious business files. Don't forget billionaire or not, I am your wife ."

Her voice was sugary but firm.

Final.

Raj froze, blinking slowly up at her then let out a low grumble under his breath, like a stubborn child caught red-handed.

"Duniya ki pehli biwi ho tum jo apne pati ko suitcase pack karne ke liye dhamki de rahi ho," he muttered in a fake sulk, the corner of his mouth twitching with a hidden smile.

But she heard him.

"What did you just mumble, Raj ?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

"Nothing kuch nahi bas apne kismat ko yaad kar raha hoon," he sighed dramatically, placing a hand on his heart as if in pain. "Pehle Dino Baby ka attack aur ab wife terror. Poor me now forced to pack socks and shirts under wifey's order."

Saanvi giggled, "Aww poor baby. Should I call the media and tell them?

Rajawat Empire ka CEO forced to pack own suitcase by dangerous biwi?" she teased, leaning closer, brushing her nose against his.

Raj growled softly, flipping her off him in one quick motion and pinning her beneath him on the bed again.

"Dangerous? Dangerous? You dare call yourself dangerous, jaan? You forgot I am the danger one,"he whispered darkly in her ear, making her gasp.

She struggled beneath him, laughing breathlessly. "You first get up then we see-"

"Hmm after five more minutes," he grinned devilishly, nuzzling into her neck, ignoring her weak fists pounding his chest.

"Raj " she gasped, laughing, struggling in vain under his weight. "You'll be late then your staff will call-"

"Let them call," he murmured, kissing the curve of her shoulder softly, sliding the loose collar of his shirt down her skin. "They'll learn what it means to disturb a husband who is claiming his wife for the last time before a month-long torture."

Saanvi's heart raced, her cheeks warming under his fiery gaze.

She slapped his shoulder playfully, panting between her soft giggles. "Get up, you idiot or no breakfast for you today either."

"Lies. You can never starve me,"he smirked, brushing his nose along her jaw. "You love me too much jaan".

She groaned dramatically, turning her face away, fighting her smile. "Ughh someone save me from this shameless, lazy, dramatic husband".

"I heard that," he teased, tightening his hold. "Keep talking, jaan your punishment is loading when I will back you will see what will I do".

But before things could go further, her phone buzzed sharply on the side table.

Raj sighed heavily, resting his forehead against her shoulder .

"See?"she smiled sweetly, pushing at his chest. "Your staff is calling. Now get up before I really burn your files this time."

"Murderer of files," he grumbled, rolling off her with a dramatic thud, covering his face with the pillow. "Terror of wives. Destroyer of husband's peace. What sins did I commit to deserve this woman".

Saanvi laughed, standing up on the bed, hands on her hips, staring down at her defeated husband buried in pillows like a sulking child.

"My sin is marrying you, Mr. Rajveer Singh Rajawat. Now get your royal backside up or I swear the next time you touch your suitcase, it'll be ashes."

Raj peeked at her from under the pillow, grinning. "This is why I married you pure entertainment with a deadly twist."

"Careful," she smirked, bending down and stealing a soft kiss from his lips.

She marched toward the wardrobe, pulling it open to grab fresh clothes for herself.

Raj watched her every move like a lion eyeing his prey, arms tucked comfortably behind his head as he lay sprawled on the bed after packing his suitcase incomplete and that sinful smirk playing on his lips.

She threw him a warning glare over her shoulder. "Stop staring, Raj. Get up. Take a shower. Pack your damn suitcase. You're not a child whom I have to bathe and dress every day Honestly ". she grumbled, stomping toward the door.

Raj's smirk widened.

As she was about to step out of the bedroom to go downstairs, his voice deep and teasing cut through the air.

"Jaan wait."

She stopped abruptly, turning with an impatient sigh. "What now, Raj? I have to make breakfast too, and your suitcase's still lying unpacked."

"Don't start another excuse to laze around go take a bath You are not a child whom I have to bathe with my own hands," she scolded, shaking her head.

But Raj only chuckled softly, sitting up on the bed, eyes gleaming like mischief itself.

"Baby ," he said in a slow, teasing voice, raising his hand as if stopping her speech, and gently placed his finger against his own lips, signalling her to be quiet.

She frowned, confused.

His gaze roamed down her form deliberately slow and sinful his eyes darkening as they trailed over her bare legs, her slightly loose messy bun, and finally his shirt hanging off her slender frame, barely covering her thighs.

he drawled again, smirking devilishly. "You forgot something very important."

Her brows knitted together.

"Forgot what?"she asked warily, hands on her hips.

He stood up slowly from the bed, walking toward her with the grace of a hunter, making her unconsciously step back till she hit the door.

"You're wearing my shirt," he whispered, gently tugging at the collar of the shirt she wore the one he had made her wear last night .

"And you were about to go downstairs like this? Really, jaan? With those legs showing and that sleepy glow on your face? My staff is downstairs, sweetheart. The guards are downstairs. The whole family."

Her eyes widened.

Oh God.

She lowered her gaze, finally realising what he meant and saw herself properly in the mirror beside the wardrobe.

Raj's oversized white shirt hung deliciously off one shoulder, slipping dangerously low on her collarbone, exposing way too much skin her bare legs on display as the shirt barely brushed her mid-thigh. Her cheeks flamed red instantly.

"Oh shit," she mumbled under her breath, gripping the shirt's collar tightly and trying to cover herself.

"Why didn't you tell me before, idiot! Side hato, Raj I'm going to shower right now," she cried in embarrassment, trying to push past him.

But Raj blocked her path with a wicked smile, one hand on the door, trapping her between him and the wall.

"Where do you think you're going, baby? Hmm?" he whispered, eyes gleaming with playful fire. "You were going to parade my shirt in front of the guards?"

"Let them enjoy what's mine?" His voice was low, dangerous and possessive.

"I wasn't parading, I forgot okay? Now, move Raj" she groaned, trying to escape.

Her cheeks burned as she pulled the shirt tighter around herself.

"I'm coming too. To the shower," he said smugly, leaning closer, "Wait for me, baby we'll save water. Together."

She gasped, glaring up at him. "You pervert, No way. I'm going alone. Move" She shoved at his chest, but he didn't budge an inch.

"Why?" he whispered, brushing her ear gently with his lips, "Shy now? After all of being my jaan my wife? I've seen it all many times touched it all and now you act like a blushing bride?"

Her heart raced madly. "Raj stop this nonsense! Go take your bath alone! You're going to be late for your flight And if you follow me inside".

"You'll what?" he chuckled darkly.

He cupped her waist gently, leaning so close their breaths mingled. "I dare you Jaan lock the door fast. Otherwise I am coming."

Saanvi squeaked, slipping under his arm and running toward the bathroom, her giggles echoing through the room. "I'll lock it, idiot! Stay away".

"Too late, baby! I'm coming". Raj laughed, chasing after her like a playful beast.

She managed to slam the bathroom door shut just in time, locking it with trembling fingers as she leaned against the door, laughing breathlessly.

"Open the door, jaan," came Raj's teasing voice from outside. "Just a minute. I promise I'll behave.".

"Liar," she laughed. "Go pack your suitcase! You have no time to play your dirty games now."

"I'll wait, baby bathroom or bed but I will fuck you before I leave for this stupid trip," he murmured through the door.

Saanvi covered her blushing face, shaking her head.

"Stupid man," she whispered, smiling softly.

From outside, Raj chuckled darkly, leaning his head against the door.

This morning was turning out to be far more delicious than he'd planned.

And God help him

Leaving her like this for a month felt like the biggest punishment life could ever give.

The sound of running water finally stopped.

Moments later, the bathroom door creaked open, and soft steam curled out into the bedroom .

Saanvi stepped out, wrapped in a fresh ivory robe that clung delicately to her curves, the sash tied carelessly around her slender waist.

Her freshly washed hair dripped soft drops of water down her bare shoulders, the damp strands sticking to her glowing skin. Her face looked fresh rosy cheeks, dewy lips, and that natural charm that made Raj's breath hitch every single time.

But she didn't spare him a single glance.

Because she knew.

She knew very well that his burning eyes were already following her every step.

On the far side of the room, Rajveer stood shirtless black trousers riding low on his hips his phone pressed to his ear. His voice, low and commanding, murmured orders to his most trusted man, Abhiman.

"Abhiman, I don't want any mistakes. Check the security thrice the files should be signed by evening. And the private jet inspect everything again. Got it?"

His eyes, however, weren't on the floor, nor on the documents spread near his bag.

They were on her.

His jaan.

His wife.

His biggest distraction.

Even while he spoke business, his gaze stole hungry, lingering glances at the vision walking across their bedroom.

Saanvi, pretending not to notice his heated stare, moved gracefully towards the closet, the soft swish of her robe brushing against her smooth legs, her wet hair cascading like dark silk down her back.

But Raj saw.

Every movement. Every careless drop sliding down her neck. Every curve outlined beneath that teasing robe.

And his jaw clenched unconsciously.

"Abhiman, I'll call you back later," he murmured without waiting for a reply, cutting the call abruptly.

He shoved the phone onto the bed, his dark eyes locked on the closet door that Saanvi just entered.

Inside the walk-in closet, Saanvi stood in front of the mirror, pulling out a gorgeous royal blue saree from the hanger.

She sighed softly, parting her hair to the side, wringing the water gently from the strands, letting drops fall . Her delicate fingers moved to unfold the saree carefully.

Behind her, outside the closet door, Raj stood quietly, watching the gap of the door left slightly ajar. His eyes darkened when he caught the fleeting glimpse of her untied robe slipping down one shoulder as she bent slightly to pick her blouse.

His throat dried.

Damn this woman.

Her innocence.

Her unintentional tease.

She didn't even realise what she did to him.

Inside, Saanvi muttered to herself, struggling to hook her blouse. "Where's this stupid hook ugh why does this always happen when I'm in hurry ?"

She reached up to adjust the back of her blouse, the robe slipping more off her shoulder, revealing smooth glowing skin, unaware that a pair of hungry eyes were burning holes from behind the door.

Raj gritted his teeth, running a hand through his messy hair.

God, he was tempted to toss his suitcase away and cancel the damn trip right now. His gaze darkened more when he saw her stretching slightly, her waist peeking perfectly above the saree petticoat, the curve of her spine visible.

"Keep breathing, Raj keep breathing" he muttered under his breath, shaking his head, trying to calm the sinful thoughts stirring in his mind.

After struggling a little more, Saanvi finally tied the blouse, adjusting the saree carefully, letting the soft blue pallu fall gracefully over her shoulder.

She smoothed the pleats across her stomach, fixing the fabric neatly. Her delicate fingers pressed the bindi on her forehead, adjusting the little earrings before giving herself a final look in the mirror.

But her heart skipped when she turned slightly

And found him standing at the door, leaning against the frame with folded arms, eyes dark as midnight, a slow, sinful smirk curling on his lips.

she breathed softly, startled. "W-What are you staring at like that? Go Your flight's in a few hours! You have to finish packing-"

But her voice trailed off when she saw the way his gaze devoured her intense, unblinking.

Raj didn't move.

His molten eyes roamed all over her body the way that royal blue hugged her curves, the way her damp hair rested softly over her shoulder, the fresh pink tint on her lips, the warm flush on her cheeks she was every damn reason he never wanted to leave this room.

"Who said I was looking at the clock?" he murmured huskily, stepping closer, the heat radiating from his body making her breath catch. "I'm busy admiring something much more important than that boring suitcase".

"Raj behave," she whispered breathlessly, clutching her pallu as he stood so close that his scent wrapped around her.

He smirked, lifting a damp strand of her hair between his fingers. "You're making it impossible for me to leave, jaan dressed like this looking like that in blue saree knowing damn well I'll think about this sight every night when I'm away".

Her cheeks turned crimson, eyes flickering to his bare chest his hard muscles so close to her trembling form.

"Go, go finish packing," she whispered weakly.

But Raj only leaned closer, his warm breath teasing her ear. "I'd rather unpack you right here than pack my suitcase".

Her eyes widened, her heart racing madly.

" Shut up ".

He chuckled deeply, letting the strand fall gently from his fingers.

"Go, jaan you're gonna make me lose control. Wait for me downstairs while I pack before I change my mind."

She gasped softly, cheeks burning like fire.

Raj grinned wickedly, stepping away slowly, his gaze lingering on her flushed face.

This trip was going to kill him.

But before that he'd burn her image in his mind so deep that no distance could fade it.

___🦋

Saanvi's POV :

After that shameless husband of mine finally let me go and I quickly got dressed, fixed my hair, and tiptoed downstairs.

It was already past noon.

Raj hadn't even eat his breakfast obviously, busy doing dirty things on the bed and wasting time teasing me instead of packing for his stupid trip.

Men.

Hmph.

Sighing, I headed straight to the kitchen to start preparing lunch for him. The house seemed oddly quiet no sign of Mummyji, Chachiji, or anyone else.

Where did everyone go?

But the moment I stepped inside the kitchen-

"BOOOO!!"

"Aghhhhhhh Mummmyyyyy " I screamed, jumping two steps back, my hand flying to my chest as my heart leapt to my throat.

And then I heard it the loudest, most wicked laugh.

I turned sharply.

Standing there, grinning like the world's biggest idiot, was Dhruv, holding a kitchen towel like a ghost costume over his head.

His shoulders shook as he laughed uncontrollably, clearly pleased with himself.

"Dhruv " I gasped, still holding my chest, my heartbeat racing. "Pagal ho gaye ho kya?I nearly died What if I had dropped something hot or sharp? You want your lovely bhabhi to faint or what?"

Before Dhruv could respond, Kiara came skipping into the kitchen, laughing like mad.

"Awww Bhabhi " she teased, clutching her stomach. "You seriously got scared of this chuchundar? This little rat? Oh God, Dhruv, you look more like a soaked towel than a ghost."

Dhruv gasped in fake offense, pulling the towel off his head dramatically.

"Chuchundar? Main? Kiara ki bachi, you're dead, Bhabhi first, now you No one respects horror talent in this house."

I smacked his arm lightly, glaring. "Horror talent? Idiot My soul nearly left my body because of you".

Kiara giggled harder, wiping her eyes. "Bhabhi, you should've seen your face like full horror movie heroine".

Dhruv laughed and high-fived her.

"Why did I even come to this kitchen?" I muttered, sighing, rolling my eyes as they both continued teasing.

"To make lunch for our dear Bhaiya?" Dhruv smirked, poking my side.

I gasped, swatting his hand away. " Right".

"Arre I know everything, bhabhi," he winked wickedly. "We heard bhai calling you 'Jaan' loudly upstairs while everyone was downstairs.

Kiara gasped with fake shock. "Haww Raj Bhaiya flirty flirty?".

I covered my face, burning red. "Pagal ho gaye ho dono, Koi sun lega."

"Sunne do," Dhruv teased. "Let everyone know their cute bhabhi is the only weakness of The Great Rajveer Singh Rajawat. His only kryptonite."

I shook my head, hiding my smile, trying to focus on peeling the vegetables but they wouldn't let me.

"Careful Bhabhi," Kiara said in a sing-song voice, coming behind me, poking my waist. "Raj Bhaiya ko boldu Bhabhi was blushing like a school girl just now?"

"Kiaraaaa ," I whined, stomping my foot as both of them burst out laughing again.

"I swear tum dono ki shaadi ke baad main tumhe torture karungi. You wait. Karma returns."

Dhruv clutched his chest dramatically. "Aww my sweet innocent bhabhi turned dangerous after marriage. Yeh hota hai Raj Bhaiya ka asar."

I turned and threw a tomato at him.

He caught it laughing.

"Good. Tomato bhi mil gaya. Salad done," he grinned.

Kiara held her stomach, laughing breathlessly. "Bhabhi, you made lunch or comedy show today?"

I huffed, hiding my smile again. "Bas bahut hua. Go. Get out of my kitchen, I have work and Raj needs to eat before leaving. Tum dono pagal kar doge mujhe."

But Dhruv stood blocking the way, arms wide.

"No leaving without a smile, Bhabhi! Full smile please! Otherwise Raj Bhaiya ka mood off ho jayega plane mein."

"Uff this house," I groaned, but I smiled despite myself. "Happy now? Good. Now move, bandar team. Shoo."

Both laughed and finally left the kitchen, still giggling.

As the kitchen door closed behind them, I shook my head, grinning.

The kitchen finally quieted down after all that drama with Kiara and Dhruv. I managed to finish lunch .

Distract myself from the gnawing ache in my chest.

The ache that reminded me again and again Raj was leaving today.

A whole month.

I carefully arranged all the dishes on the dining table butter naan, Shahi paneer , jeera rice, salad, boondi raita all his favourites. I even made his favourite dessert moong dal halwa.

But he still didn't come down.

Mummyji and Chachiji came first, talking about something related to Kiara's college event. Then Dhruv barged in, still grinning from our kitchen chaos. Kiara followed soon after, making fun of his hair.

Everyone was there.

Except him.

I glanced at the staircase for the fifth time.

Nothing.

I clenched my teeth.

"Of course. Why would he come down when his phone is probably more important than his wife today?" I mumbled under my breath, spooning rice onto a plate.

And then

Click.

The sharp sound of leather shoes echoed against the marble stairs.

Everyone's head turned.

And there he was.

Descending slowly like some runway model out of a magazine. Wearing a crisp, perfectly tailored black tuxedo. Shirt immaculately tucked in, top button undone just enough to show a sinful glimpse of that carved collarbone. Hair swept back, his jaw freshly shaved, sharp.

And of course his phone glued to his ear.

My eyes involuntarily dragged down his entire form.

Why did he have to look like sin dipped in black velvet today?

He didn't even glance at anyone.

He was too busy talking. Voice low and commanding.

"Yes, Abhiman, I need that file signed by 4:30. I don't care if Sharma ji's son is getting married business doesn't pause. And tell Raina to clear the jet runway."

I let out a frustrated breath through my nose.

Seriously?

This man.

This unbelievably.

He's leaving for one whole month, and instead of sitting with his family, instead of making every second count, he walks in looking like a fantasy and he's still working?

I swear I could feel steam coming out of my ears.

Kiara leaned over and whispered, "Bhabhi, bhai thoda kam hot lag rahe ho toh control karo warna mummy dekh legi."

I didn't even laugh.

As he finally approached the table, still very much married to his damn phone, I had had enough.

"Wow," I said loudly, sarcasm dripping from every syllable. "Look who finally remembered his family exists."

He paused mid-sentence. Glanced at me for the first time.

One eyebrow arched.

Still didn't end the call.

"Abhiman, hold," he said coolly, pulling the phone slightly away from his ear.

Then, to me in that lazy, smug voice that made me want to slap him and kiss him both "Problem, baby?"

Problem?

I nearly hurled the roti roller at him.

"Yes," I said sweetly, forcing a tight smile. "The problem is, Mr. Rajawat, you're leaving for an entire month and instead of sitting with us, you're strutting down the stairs like some fashion icon with a phone stuck to your ear like it's your lifeline".

The entire table froze.

Mummyji blinked.

Chachiji cleared her throat.

Dhruv tried to hide his grin behind a glass of water.

But Raj?

Raj had the audacity to smirk. That shameless, infuriating smirk.

"I had to look good, jaan," he said with a wink. "You always say I shouldn't show up looking like a half-asleep , right?"

"Looking good isn't the problem, Raj " I snapped. "Your phone is , Your inability to give us five minutes of peace before flying off to another country is."

He slowly ended the call.

"Done," he said, slipping the phone into his pocket and strolling closer to me, unbothered. "Now I'm all yours, Mrs. Rajawat before I'm snatched away by international deadlines. Use them wisely."

Oh. My. God.

I blinked at him. "Are you flirting?"

He stepped even closer, until I had to tilt my head up to meet those dangerously mischievous eyes.

"I wasn't flirting just reminding my wife how loved she is," he murmured, brushing a loose strand of hair behind my ear.

"And I was busy making mental notes how to survive thirty days without your moody tantrums, your suspicious glares when I don't pay attention."

I gasped, pushing at his chest. "Can't you keep your mouth shut?".

He leaned in, whispering near my ear. "No. I want them to see what they'll be missing for the next thirty days. I'm yours, baby. Flaunt me a little."

I turned red. Dhruv whistled.

Mummyji coughed. "Ahem beta, khaana thoda shaant ho kar khao?"

Raj pulled out my chair and made me sit, kissing the top of my head right there in front of everyone shameless and smug as ever.

"I'll eat, Maa only if my wife feeds me. Last meal before exile."

I glared at him. "It's a business trip, not Kargil war."

But as I served him lunch, watching him laugh.

Just when I thought the table drama was over and Raj would finally behave like a civilized man heading for an international business trip, Mummyji decided to throw the next bomb.

"Dhruv ,"she said sweetly, scooping some rice onto her plate. "You're next. When are you going to get married, hmm? Or should we start looking for a nice girl for you?"

Dhruv, who was casually sipping buttermilk, froze mid-gulp.

I raised a brow at him, teasing, "Haan Dhruv, when I will get my devrani ?

He smirked, recovering quickly, and said in his usual cocky style, "Well, I don't want just any girl. I want one like bhabhi ."

The table went still for a second.

Then Kiara snorted out her juice, coughing and wheezing. "Like bhabhi? Bro, you think women like her come in wholesale? Keep dreaming."

Dhruv didn't flinch. "No, seriously," he said with a charming smile, "I want someone who can shut me up and care for me at the same time. Like bhabhi. Or maybe even better bhabhi's best friend."

I blinked.

"What?"

He grinned cheekily. "My Hoor Tanvi ."

"OHHHOOOO!" The entire table broke into dramatic echoes.

Kiara banged the table with a laugh, "Did he just say Tanvi di? who roasts him like she's hosting a comedy special every time she opens her mouth?"

"Yup," I said, shaking my head with a smile.

"He means that Tanvi. The one who'd rather break her nail than bend for a man. Good luck, dear brother-in-law."

Mummyji gasped. "She roasted him?"

Raj chuckled beside me. "Only Dhruv has the talent to flirt his way into a bonfire."

Dhruv held up his hands in mock surrender. "Okay, okay! She's a little tough. But I love a challenge."

"You'll need a helmet, not a ring, "Kiara fired back. "Tanvi di is basically a walking HR warning. She doesn't fall in love she interviews candidates for it."

We all laughed, and I shook my head. "I'm telling you, convincing her won't be easy."

Dhruv smirked confidently. "Easy isn't fun, bhabhi."

Raj suddenly leaned toward me, brushing his lips close to my ear.

My entire body froze.

I turned slowly to glare at him.

He smirked like the devil in a tux. "Your best friend might be tough, but trust me you were the real mission, Mrs. Rajawat."

I bit my lower lip, trying not to smile as I whispered, "Behave. Everyone's here."

Raj's voice dropped low, sinful, teasing. "Let them be. They're talking about marriages. I'm just remembering our first night."

I slapped his thigh under the table.

Hard.

He winced but didn't stop smiling.

Across the table, Kiara was still in full roast mode. "Honestly, I support this. I want front-row tickets to Dhruv vs Tanvi Love Battle Edition."

Chachiji laughed. "Arre but my son Dhruv will lose".

"Please mom," Dhruv scoffed, puffing his chest. "Have you seen my charm?"

"Yes," Kiara replied dryly. "It works only on waitresses and the Wi-Fi lady."

The whole table burst into laughter again.

Mummyji giggled. "But Tanvi is a nice girl. Fierce, but honest. She's a good match if you're serious."

Dhruv nodded. "I am. I just need a chance."

I smiled at him, genuinely. "Then I'll help you. But be warned she won't melt with roses or poetry. She melts when you mean what you say."

"I'll remember that," he said with a wink.

But then Raj, never to be outdone, leaned in again. "If this matchmaking is done, can I have your attention back? I feel like you forgot your own husband is leaving in five hours."

"You forgot your suitcase is still unpacked," I whispered back with narrowed eyes.

He shrugged, voice lower now. "My real luggage is standing right in front of me. Saree-clad, wild-haired, and tempting as hell."

"Rajveer " I hissed.

"Hmm?"

"You drive me crazy."

"And still, you crave me ".

I shook my head, cheeks burning again.

And just as I turned back to my plate, Dhruv groaned, "Why does it always feel like you two are in your own dramatic serial, and we're just watching it unfold with popcorn?"

Kiara raised her glass. "Just casually third-wheeling a lunch date between two lovebirds who forgot they're not alone."

I covered my face in embarrassment as the table erupted in laughter again.

This man was seriously going to leave me like this for a month?

After lunch, the house slowly began to hum with that lazy post-meal stillness. Mummy ji and Chachiji had gone to rest in their rooms, the household staff cleaning up the dining space, while Papa ji and Chachu were still away in Mumbai. The sun above us turned warmer as it filtered through the garden trees, and

I could hear Dhruv's loud voice briefly before he disappeared upstairs.

"Everyone's gone to nap," Kiara said, casually slinging her arm through mine. "Let's go hang in your room bhabhi. Bhai must still be struggling with packing."

I giggled, nodding. "Let's go watch him ."

We walked up the stairs together . I pushed open the door to our bedroom expecting to see half-open drawers, shirt piles, maybe a flying tie or two

But I stopped mid-step.

My feet stilled just past the threshold.

The room was spotless.

Not a single shirt lay out. No papers, no mess. The huge black trolley suitcase sat zipped and ready near the foot of the bed.

And there he was

Back facing me.

Still in that sinful black tuxedo shirt half unbuttoned the jacket now tossed on the bed his sleeves rolled up, cufflinks undone, hair slightly messy .

His hands were neatly folding the last file and placing it into his laptop bag on the table.

Like he was ready to walk out the door already.

The sudden weight in my chest was unbearable.

Somehow, seeing that suitcase zipped up made it all real.

He was really going.

"Whoa," Kiara muttered beside me, her voice cutting through my thoughts." Bhai actually did it. Packed everything himself."

Raj turned around at her voice, and when his eyes met mine, something shifted in his expression.

That usual teasing spark dimmed just a little replaced by something heavier, more thoughtful.

he said, voice casual. "Packing's done."

"Clearly," I replied, stepping in slowly.

Kiara walked over to the bed and collapsed onto it like she owned it. "Don't mind me. I'm just here to see how two overly romantic people spend their last few hours together."

Raj shot her a dry look. "Out. Now."

"Nooo,"Kiara whined, stretching out. "This bed is soft. This room is cooler than mine. Bhabhi will side with me."

I turned to her.

She paused.

Looked at me.

And maybe it was the tone in my voice or the way I was staring at that suitcase like it held my entire heart inside but her playful expression softened.

She sat up straight.

"I'll go," she mumbled, smoothing her hair. "Don't cry too much, bhabhi. Bhai just going for thirty days ."

I gave a soft laugh, and she gave Raj a wink. "Come back with gifts bhai. Or don't bother returning at all."

He smirked. "You'll get nothing. "

She huffed and walked out, leaving the door gently ajar behind her.

The moment she left, the room fell silent.

Raj looked at me.

I looked at the suitcase.

Then I looked at him again.

"You packed everything," I said softly, my voice barely above a whisper.

He nodded once.

I stepped closer, eyes still locked on the large black trolley. "So that's it, huh?"

He didn't answer.

Just watched me with those dark, unreadable eyes.

And I I suddenly hated that suitcase.

That thing was taking him away from me.

I turned away quickly, walking over to the wardrobe, pretending to straighten my own sarees.

But my hands trembled.

The fabric slipped through my fingers as tears burned at the back of my throat.

" Jaan ," his voice came from behind, low and careful.

I wiped at my face quickly before turning. "I'm not doing anything."

He didn't move from his spot. "You're crying without crying. I know what that looks like. I've watched you do it before."

My lips trembled.

I crossed my arms. "I'm just annoyed."

"At what?"

"That you're leaving. That you didn't even ask for help while packing. That this suitcase is more ready than I am."

He walked toward me slowly.

Every step felt heavier.

When he reached me, he didn't say anything. Just wrapped his arms around me gently and pulled me into his chest.

I clung to him without a single word.

For a long time, we just stood there. His palm stroked my back in slow, comforting circles. My face buried in the space between his collar and neck, breathing in his scent, memorising him.

"You really folded everything yourself? "I murmured into his chest, trying to smile.

"Yes."

I pulled back to look at him, brushing his hair softly. "You'll call?"

"Every night."

"And if I miss your call?"

"I'll fly back and bang on the door like a madman until you open it."

I let out a watery laugh. "You're insane."

He cupped my face gently, brushing his thumb under my eyes. "I'm only insane for one person."

I wanted to kiss him. Right then and there. But instead I whispered, "Promise me something?"

"Anything."

"Don't skip meals. Don't skip sleep. Don't get so lost in work you forget yourself and don't come back with a beard."

He chuckled. "That's too many promises."

"Swear it."

He leaned in and kissed my both cheeks , lips lingering longer than usual. "I swear."

And then he whispered in that deep, sinful voice I hated for making me weak, "But there's one thing I won't swear"

"What?"

He bent to my ear, his warm breath sending a chill down my spine.

"I won't swear to stay sane because spending thirty nights away from your touch is already breaking me."

My breath hitched.

I slapped his chest weakly and walked and said ,"Can u please shut up for once Raj?"

He replied his voice was huskily seductively low sending a shiver down my spine ." Then come and sit on my face sweetheart ".

I froze mid-step.

And then turned around slowly, my cheeks burning so hot.

I hissed, scandalised, glaring at him . "Have you lost your mind? What if someone hears".

He stood there completely unbothered, shirt still half unbuttoned, sleeves rolled up, arms crossed across his chest.

His smirk only deepened. "Then maybe they'll finally understand what a tortured man I am."

I opened my mouth to argue, scold, anything but nothing came out. Because honestly I was halfway laughing and halfway ready to run away from this madman.

"Apko samjhna musqil hai ,"I muttered under my breath, turning back toward the dresser, pretending to fiddle with my bangles just to distract myself.

He followed me anyway.

I saw him in the mirror.

He stood behind me, not touching, just watching. His presence alone was overwhelming.

"You know I wasn't joking, right?"he murmured, voice dangerously close to my ear. "I meant every word."

My fingers trembled slightly over the bangle, slipping it wrong. "Raj you're going to be late."

"And you're going to be lonely," he whispered, finally brushing my hair aside and kissing the back of my shoulder.

I closed my eyes for a second, just one heartbeat, to feel that warmth that comfort that only he gave.

"You make it so hard to say goodbye," I whispered back, my voice barely there.

His arms slid around my waist from behind, his chin resting on my shoulder. "Then don't. Lock me in.I'll skip the trip if you ask."

I chuckled softly, shaking my head. "You have an empire to run, Mr. Rajawat "

"I already have my kingdom," he said, turning me around slowly to face him. "It's standing right here, in front of me, shaking hands pretending to be strong when I know she's already counting how many hours we'll be apart."

I hated how easily he read me.

I dropped my eyes, trying to compose myself.

"Are you scared? "I asked after a pause.

He tilted his head. "Of the business trip?"

I nodded.

He cupped my face gently, his thumb stroking my cheek. "Not scared. Just not ready to spend a single night without you."

Something about the way he said it no teasing just plain truth made my eyes sting with unshed tears.

"You'll be on video calls," I said quickly, trying to lighten the mood. "I'll haunt your screen."

He chuckled. "I want more than that. I want your hand in mine. Your legs tangled in mine under the blanket. Your face buried in my chest. I want to come home to you, not my own echo."

"I'll be waiting," I whispered, rising slightly on my toes and pressing a soft kiss to his lips. "Now finish getting ready, idiot. I'll bring your coffee."

As I turned to leave again, he caught my wrist, pulling me gently back.

"Still thinking about what I said earlier?" he asked, that mischievous gleam returning to his eyes.

I narrowed mine. "Raj-"

"I'm just saying," he shrugged innocently, "if I have to go thirty nights without that taste, I deserve a memory strong enough to survive."

I let out a short laugh, cheeks flaming, and shoved at his chest. "You are not a man. You are a walking problem."

"And you ," he caught my hand and pressed it to his lips. "You are my sweetest solution."

He winked.

God help me.

I had barely turned toward the door when his hand caught my wrist again.

"Where do you think you're going, hmm?" he asked in that deep, lazy voice of his, tugging me back softly.

I raised an eyebrow. "To get your coffee".

He gave me that crooked smirk, the one that always signaled trouble. "Let someone else bring it. I'm not done with you yet."

I blinked. "What-"

"Call Kiara," he said shamelessly, already walking toward the bed and dropping down onto it.

I stared at him in disbelief. "You want me to call your sister to bring your coffee while you lie there doing nothing?"

He leaned back on his elbows, muscles flexing, gaze fixed on me with sinful amusement. "Exactly."

I folded my arms, "And what excuse am I supposed to give her? That you've turned into a lazy lion refusing to leave the bed because your wife smells too good?"

He grinned. "That's actually accurate. Go ahead, call her."

I sighed, rolling my eyes to the heavens before grabbing my phone. "If she kills you with the coffee mug, I'm not saving you."

I dialed.

"Bhabhi? What's up? Done seducing Bhai or is round two happening?"

I nearly choked. "Kiara"

She burst out laughing. "What? The whole house can hear the tension upstairs."

I groaned. "Listen, please bring Raj's coffee upstairs. He's refusing to let me go."

I heard her gasp dramatically. "Excuse me?! Bhai has legs. He can walk".

Raj, hearing her voice, called loudly from the bed ,"Kiaraaa Bring it with extra sugar. I'm tired from emotionally suffering".

Kiara's voice dropped to a sarcastic whisper. "He's tired? Bhabhi, I just carried Mumma giant spice box from the top shelf like a full gym workout or bhaj is lying on Egyptian cotton acting like he's done hard labour."

I stifled a giggle. "Please. Just this once. Or else he'll make me sit on-" I cut myself before completing that sinful sentence.

Kiara gasped again. "Say less. I'm coming. But if I hear even one more shameless line, I'm pouring the coffee on him."

Call ended.

I turned around, and sure enough, Raj was still lounging.

"She's bringing it," I said, walking over and flicking his forehead lightly.

"Ow," he grinned. "That's domestic violence."

"No, that's married life," I shot back, climbing up beside him. "And if you keep being this shameless, I'll switch your coffee with karela juice."

He pulled me into his arms without hesitation, making me fall against his chest with a yelp.

"I'd drink a thousand cups of karela juice if it meant you'd sit like this every time."

" Awww my baby"

He kissed my forehead.

And just as I melted into that warmth

BANG!

The door burst open.

Kiara.

Holding the coffee tray.

Eyes wide.

Jaw dropped.

"OH MY GOD! Can you two not?"

I jumped away, cheeks redder than a tomato.

Raj just looked unbothered.

"Oh good," he said calmly, "you brought it. Put it on the table. And tell the staff no one's allowed to enter for the next five hour."

Kiara squawked, eyes bulging. "Bhai, You're leaving in a few hours. Behave like a sanskaari husband for once".

Raj winked. :Too late. I'm already in too deep."

I hid my face in my hands, groaning. "Please take the coffee and leave, Kiara. For your own safety."

Kiara walked backward toward the door. "Y'all need possibly a room with soundproof walls".

She shut the door behind her.

And Raj just sipped the coffee casually, pulling me back into his arms.

"I love being married," he whispered against my ear.

I couldn't help it.

I laughed.

I curled my fingers into the collar of his shirt as he slowly buttoned it halfway, but not before brushing a soft kiss on my forehead.

We sat by the window now, cross-legged on the edge of the bed. The afternoon light poured in lazily, and our untouched coffee had grown cold on the side table.

"Raj," I whispered, watching a little bird flutter across the garden outside, "what if I cry when you leave?"

He didn't look at the window like I did.

He only looked at me.

"Then I'll come back even faster," he said softly. "Even if it means crashing the plane and skydiving into your arms."

I turned toward him slowly. "That's dramatic."

"I'm dramatic about you." His voice dipped lower. "Always have been."

I smiled. Weakly. My fingers played with the hem of his sleeve. "You'll be flying to five country in ten days. Do you even know how to rest?"

He leaned his shoulder into mine. "Only resting I know is when I sleep with your head on my chest."

I rolled my eyes, trying not to melt. "Shameless even in emotional scenes."

He chuckled, brushing my hair back from my face. "You knew what you were marrying."

"I did. But I didn't know it'd hurt this much to watch you go."

He paused.

And then he gently cupped my cheek, his thumb brushing softly over my skin like he was memorizing every inch.

"I hate this too, jaan," he said, voice rougher now, slower. "I hate leaving this room our bed your sleepy face in the morning".

I gave a small laugh, resting my head on his shoulder.

We sat like that for another few minutes.

Then suddenly, his fingers trailed to mine.

"You know what scares me the most?" he asked.

I looked up. "What?"

"That when I'm gone, you'll get used to it."

My heart clenched.

"Never," I said instantly, fiercely. "Don't say things like that."

He looked down at our entwined hands. "I don't want you to learn to sleep without me."

"I won't."

He glanced up, a hint of mischief returning to his eyes. "Even with Dino baby?"

I laughed through my sniffle, hitting his arm. "Still jealous of that toy?"

"Yes,"he said shamelessly. "I'm your man. No green, fluffy, smug-looking idiot gets my place."

"I'll keep him away. I promise."

"You better. Or I swear when I return, he's going into exile. Or the washing machine."

We both laughed again, and the heaviness lifted just a little.

"I want to hug you for five hours straight,"I murmured into his chest.

"Let's do it," he replied immediately, pulling me tighter. "And maybe kiss you for five hours straight too."

"Raj"

"What?" he smirked. "Don't worry, I'll time it properly. One kiss every six minutes."

"You're insane Raj."

"And you're mine."

I looked up, my nose brushing his. "Forever?"

"Even beyond that."

_____ 🦋

Rajveer's POV

There are moments in life you wait for. Then there are moments you dread.

This was one of those.

I saw her glance at the wall clock. Her soft laughter from a few seconds ago had dimmed. Her fingers curled into my shirt for a second longer than usual.

And then she slipped out of my lap, her anklets chiming faintly as she stood.

I said lowly, arms aching at the sudden emptiness. "Where are you going, jaan?"

Her voice was quiet but sure. "Look at the time, Raj."

I did.

And there it was.

That goddamn truth ticking away on the wall.

4:42 PM.

Time to walk away from the one thing I never wanted to be apart from her.

She turned and walked to the closet with graceful, unhurried steps. But I could see the way her fingers trembled slightly as she reached for the black tuxedo jacket.

I sat on the edge of the bed, watching her.

She looked like a dream even now wearing her royal blue saree, her hair freshly dried, those earrings dangling softly.

She didn't even look at me.

She was biting her lip to stay strong for me.

" Raj," she called, gently. "Come here."

That voice.

I got up.

Walked to her slowly.

But when I reached for the jacket in her hand, I didn't take it.

I wrapped my arms around her instead.

Tight.

I didn't care that my shirt was still unbuttoned or that my phone had buzzed six times already.

I didn't care that Abhiman was probably pacing near the jet, or that the world would wait.

Because she couldn't.

And neither could I.

Her back pressed into my chest as I leaned down, nuzzling the curve of her neck. She froze for a heartbeat I knew she did. Her breath hitched. And just when she thought I would kiss her softly and move away

I bit her collarbone.

Hard.

Not enough to hurt.

Just enough to own.

To leave a mark.

Her sharp gasp hit the silence like lightning. "R-Raj".

"You're not the only one who gets to send something with me," I muttered into her skin, lips brushing the fresh mark, "Now I've left something of me on you too."

She turned in my arms slowly, eyes wide, cheeks flushed. "You're insane."

"Insanely in love with you," I said shamelessly, letting my knuckles graze her jaw.

I stared at that mark.

A tiny red bloom against her skin.

God, it was perfect.

She was perfect.

"You bit me," she breathed, voice trembling.

"I had to," I whispered. "Something had to stay with you when I go."

Her fingers clutched my shirt. "I have your name, your ring, your child in the future. Isn't that enough?"

"Not for me."

I pulled her against me again, kissing her forehead, then her closed eyelids, then her trembling mouth.

"If I could,"I murmured against her lips, "I'd chain myself to this mansion and never leave."

"Then do it," she whispered desperately, gripping the back of my neck.

"Stay."

I almost said yes.

God, I almost forgot the world existed.

But my eyes flicked to the clock again.

"Jaan," I cupped her face. "If I don't go today, I'll lose the deal I fought two years to win."

"You already won me, Raj," she said, tears glinting in her lashes.

That hit harder than any business loss ever could.

"I'll come back faster than the sun," I promised. "And the first thing I'll do is kiss that mark."

She laughed through her tears, shaking her head. "You're mad."

"You married madness, sweetheart."

As then she was standing in front of the mirror, fixing the pleats of her saree again maybe as a distraction, maybe to hide the fact that she was falling apart inside, just like me.

And I couldn't take my eyes off her.

Even now.

Even with the clock screaming you're late, you idiot my hands itched to touch her again.

Because I had exactly one hour left with her.

And I'd be damned if I spent that hour doing anything decent.

I walked up behind her silently, my fingers grazing the exposed curve of her waist as I leaned in, lips brushing the shell of her ear.

Her breath caught instantly.

Her body went still.

Exactly the way I liked.

"Raj" she whispered, warning me but her voice was already trembling.

"Shh," I murmured, letting my hand trail up her spine slowly. "I have something to say "

And then I leaned in closer

So close that my lips were practically inside her ear.

And I whispered ,"In exactly five minutes, I'm going to sit you down on my lap, pull that saree up to your waist, and taste you so good that you'll forget your name and scream mine instead."

For a second, nothing.

Then-

"RAJVEER," she screamed, practically leaping away from me like I'd set her on fire.

Her cheeks turned crimson, her hands flew to her face, and she backed up into the bedframe with a thud.

I laughed. Loud. Shamelessly. Wickedly.

" You are the worst The most shameless-" she yelled, her eyes wide with horror and disbelief and heat.

"Oh come on, sweetheart," I grinned, stalking toward her. "I have one hour left. Am I supposed to waste it".

"Y-you can't just say things like that," she stammered, hiding behind the curtain like it could protect her from me.

But I only followed, pulling the curtain aside with a wicked grin. "Why not? It's true. You think I can go thirty nights without hearing you beg in that broken voice?"

She gasped, mouth opening in scandal. "RAJ!"

I cornered her.

Pressed my hands against the wall on either side of her.

Trapped her.

"One hour," I whispered, lips barely an inch from hers. "That's enough time to make you lose your mind three times over."

Her lashes fluttered.

"W-we have to go downstairs"

"Exactly. So let me leave something behind," I whispered, brushing my nose along hers. "Something to remember when you're lying in bed missing me."

"You already left a mark," she gasped, clutching her collarbone.

"I'm greedy, jaan," I smirked. "I want to leave another one."

And before she could run I swept her up in my arms, laughing as she shrieked in surprise and pounded my chest.

"Put me down, Rajveer"

"Too late. Now that you screamed my name like that, I need to earn it properly."

"Shameless man-"

"Only yours."

She was squirming in my arms like a kitten tossed into fire, her fists pounding lightly on my chest, but we both knew the truth she didn't really want to escape.

Not when her cheeks were this red.

Not when her heartbeat was thundering this loud against me.

she cried, her voice breathless. "Put me down please ".

I kicked the bedroom door shut with one foot, locking us in. "No."

"Someone will come Kiara, Mummy ji-"

"Let them knock," I growled, setting her gently on the bed. "This one hour is mine."

I leaned over her, letting my weight rest on my forearms as I hovered just above her lips. Her eyes fluttered. Her fingers gripped the sheets.

That royal blue saree was still perfectly draped, but her blouse was slightly loosened from all the squirming, and her chest rose and fell in quick, shallow breaths.

"Raj," she whispered.

"Yes, jaan?"

"This is wrong."

I smirked. "Then why does it feel so right?"

She bit her lower lip and that was it.

My control shattered.

I crashed my mouth onto hers.

The kiss wasn't sweet.

It was fire.

Raw. Hungry. Final.

Her hands flew to my hair, fingers threading through like she couldn't stand the space between us. I groaned into her mouth, deepening the kiss, my body pressing into her soft curves, the bedsheets rustling under us.

One of her legs curled instinctively around my waist and God help me I lost it.

My hand slid beneath her saree, gripping her thigh firmly as I tore my lips from hers and whispered against her moaning mouth:

"One hour, jaan. Let me ruin you slow."

She gasped, back arching up to meet me just as-

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK.

We froze.

"Bhabhi! Bhai," came Kiara's sing-song voice from outside.

Saanvi buried her face in my chest, screaming silently.

I laughed darkly, pressing a kiss to her ear.

"She really does have the worst timing."

I pulled back just enough to look into her dazed eyes, breath brushing her cheeks.

"Relax, sweetheart," I whispered, grinning slowly. "I haven't started ruining you yet."

And with that, I slowly deliberately slid the pallu off her shoulder.

My mouth was halfway down her neck.

Her breathing was a sinful rhythm against my ear hot, uneven, delicious.

"Raj," she whimpered, voice trembling like a prayer and a warning at once.

I was about to undo the next damn hook of her blouse.

When-

CLICK.

CREAK.

And then

"AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!"