The Deceit

CHAPTER 26

SIMRAN

Next Day

Every muscle in my body is aching, reminding me of last night. But I can’t even bring myself to complain. How could I, when Vishnu gave me exactly what I needed, just like I gave him what he needed. Last night wasn’t just about making love. This time, Vishnu was different—more vocal, more open. There was no grief shadowing his emotions like the first time. He allowed his walls to crumble, showing me his raw desire and admiration. The way his hands had traced every inch of me, his eyes drinking me in… and his words. Oh, his words… they’d left me trembling.

He’d admired my body, not just for its beauty but for what it represented—the changes that motherhood had brought, the strength it held as Veer’s mother. It wasn’t just passion; it was reverence, and that made it all the more special. It felt like he was branding me as his, over and over again.

Our first round had been wild, and just when I thought I couldn’t take it any more, we were drawn together again for a second, quicker round. It was just as intense, but was rushed as Veer had begun to stir in the nursery. Though he wasn’t crying, we both instinctively stopped, knowing our son needed us.

Vishnu had gone to bring him back to the bedroom, and the three of us ended up sleeping together on the same bed—our small family. Veer had snuggled right between us, sleeping peacefully in the centre. Vishnu and I both looking down at him, marvelling at how one single night of passion had led to this tiny, miraculous creation. There was something indescribably satisfying about the three of us like this. To have Veer tucked between us, our hands protecting him—it felt the purest expression of love and safety. I don’t think I’d ever felt more complete.

The memory brings a flush to my cheeks as Sarah helps me drape the maroon saree despite my protests that I could do it myself. She’s persistent, though, and I’m grateful for it. The saree is stunning—elegant but understated, perfect for the courthouse wedding. The blouse is modest compared to the black one I’d tried earlier. But then again, Vishnu doesn’t need bold outfits to lose control over me, does he?

Claire’s been busy getting Veer ready, and as I adjust my pallu in the mirror, she walks in, holding him in her arms. My heart melts at the sight of my little boy dressed in a baby suit I’d designed myself, perfectly matching the one his father will wear today. The little grey waistcoat, the tiny bowtie—it’s adorable and heartwarming. It’s a little memory I wanted them to have.

“My two handsome men,” I think with a smile, my heart overflowing with love. My mind wanders off to Vishnu. He had to leave early for an investigation related to the masked man, but he’ll be meeting us directly at the courthouse.

“Perfect timing, Veer,” I coo, taking him into my arms and pressing a kiss to his soft cheek. He gurgles, his tiny hands tugging at my necklace. “What do you think? Does Mumma look okay for the big day?”

Claire chuckles.

“He approves, Simran. Though if I’m being honest, you look more than okay. Vishnu’s going to lose his mind when he sees you.”

I flush at her words, imagining the way his intense gaze will settle on me. But there’s no time to dwell on it as Leila’s waiting in the living room, her tail swishing as she brushes against my legs the moment I move closer.

“Well, Leila, what do you think?” I ask, crouching slightly to stroke her fur. She stares at me for a moment before giving a soft meow, almost as if she’s blessing me for the occasion too.

“I know you have a crush on Vishnu,” I tell her with mock sternness, scratching behind her ears. “But today, he’s officially going to be mine, so no more of that flirtatious rubbing against his legs, okay?”

Claire laughs, shaking her head at my silliness. Even I can’t help but giggle at myself. Imagine being jealous of a cat!

Leila just blinks at me slowly, purring her approval.

The drive to the New York Marriage Bureau passes in a blur of anticipation. The courthouse feels like the perfect setting for us—a quiet place where we’re marking something permanent, without the weight of a grand affair. The car ride is smooth, and I keep checking on Veer, who seems more excited than usual, wiggling in his infant car seat as if he knows he’s going to someplace special.

As the car comes to a stop, I get ready to step out, but the moment the door opens, I freeze. It’s not one of the guards holding it open—it’s Vishnu. And he looks... absolutely dashing.

A three-piece tuxedo with a perfectly tailored waistcoat clings to his tall, broad frame, giving him a distinguished look. His hair is neatly gelled back, and his beard groomed to perfection. The crisp white shirt underneath complements the grey colour of his suit. But it’s not just the suit that leaves me speechless—it’s him. It’s the radiance in his eyes, the way they light up when they meet mine, making me weak in the knees.

This man… this amazing man is about to be my husband.

He extends his hand to help me from the car, ever the gentleman. For a moment, we’re lost in each other’s gaze. I notice his rapid breathing as his eyes glide over my saree, drinking in every detail.

“I’m angry with you,” I say softly, though my smile betrays me.

His eyebrow arches. “And why is that? I arrived perfectly on time.”

“Because,” I whisper, conscious of our audience, “every move I make aches, Vishnu. Every muscle in my body is sore.”

The grin that spreads across his face is positively wicked. He glances quickly at our companions and then leans in close enough so that only I can hear his words.

“I would be more than happy to soothe those aching muscles later,” he whispers.

Heat floods my cheeks at his words, but before I can respond, Veer’s happy gurgle breaks the spell between us. Vishnu’s hand finds mine, our fingers intertwining naturally as we turn toward our son. Claire hands him over with a knowing smile.

“I think someone’s even more excited than his parents to witness their vows,” she says, watching Veer reach for Vishnu’s collar with fascination.

I watch them together, my heart so full that it might burst. Vishnu holding our son, both of them dressed in matching suits, their dark eyes bright with joy—it’s more than I ever dreamed possible. The soreness in my muscles fades to nothing compared to the warmth spreading through my chest at this perfect moment.

“It’s time for your scheduled appointment.” Abhay’s voice breaks through the moment.

My heart flutters. It’s not like I haven’t prepared myself for this day, but now, knowing that we are here, it feels surreal. I adjust Veer in my arms, kissing his head softly, and follow everyone through the security check.

As we walk toward the courthouse entrance, Vishnu’s thumb traces small circles on my palm, sending shivers up my arm. Every glance we share is charged with meaning, with memories of last night and promises for our bright future. Our little family may not be following the traditional path with a grand ceremony, but I know in my heart that this quiet, intimate moment is exactly perfect for us.

As we approach the reception desk, I notice Zane waiting for us, a smile plastered on his face. Vishnu’s arm tightens almost imperceptibly around my waist, and I catch the subtle tension in his jaw. I wonder why he invited Zane if his presence bothers him so much.

“Congratulations, Simran,” Zane says warmly, stepping forward. “You look absolutely radiant today.”

“Thank you, Zane,” I reply politely. “We appreciate you joining us for this special moment.”

“It’s my honour to be here,” Zane says, turning to Vishnu. “Thank you both for including me.”

“Glad you could make it.” Vishnu’s response is coolly formal as he draws me closer.

I notice Vishnu exchange a look with Abhay, who nods imperceptibly and quietly steps away to make a call. There’s something happening beneath the surface, but before I can dwell on it, Veer starts squirming in my arms.

I press a kiss to his cheek as he babbles happily. After a short wait, our number is called. It’s time. My heart leaps as Vishnu, Claire, Zane, and I approach the designated podium. I hand Veer back to Claire, who is our witness for this ceremony.

We present our IDs and documents to the clerk, who processes everything, intensifying the nerves in my belly. I’m really getting married to Vishnu today.

I glance at him, who seems as calm as ever, though I know him enough now to notice the slight tension in his jaw.

The clerk announces, “Once your names are called, proceed to Chapel A for the ceremony.”

We step back, and as we wait, I can’t help but notice Vishnu’s eyes constantly tracking Zane, who seems completely at ease chatting with Claire and making silly faces at Veer.

Soon Zane walks towards me, and we strike up a casual conversation.

“So, Simran, how are you feeling?”

“Nervous,” I admit with a small laugh. “But excited.”

“As you should be,” he says. “You’re marrying one of the most formidable men I’ve ever come across.”

I glance at Vishnu, who is now openly staring at Zane, his gaze hard. What is going on in that head of his?

Finally, our names are called, and we enter Chapel A. The small room is intimate, with soft lighting and elegant decor. Claire holds Veer as Vishnu and I stand before each other. Abhay, Zane, and a couple of guards linger nearby.

Reaching into his pocket, Vishnu pulls out a ring. Just when I think he is going to put it on my finger without much fuss, he does something totally unexpected.

“Marry me,” he says, holding the ring between us, his gaze boring into mine.

I hadn’t expected him to propose. Not now. Now here!

“Are you proposing or ordering?” I tease, my voice trembling slightly.

His signature smirk appears.

“It’s just a formality. I don’t need your reply to put this ring on your finger.”

Before I can find the words, he takes my hand and slides the ring onto my finger with deliberate tenderness. His eyes never leave mine as he steps closer.

“From this moment, you are my wife—my everything,” Vishnu says, his voice warm and steady, yet filled with so much emotion. “I’ll spend every day striving to bring a smile to your face because you will always be my top priority, my partner, my better half. From now on, it’s no longer you and me—it’s us. I’ll give you my world, Simran, and embrace yours as my own with every breath I take.”

I blink back the sudden tears that threaten to spill as he continues.

“Every joy you experience, I will celebrate; every tear you shed, I will share. I’ll hold your dreams as my own and walk every path with you, no matter how uncertain or challenging it may seem. You are not just my wife but my strength, my solace—the one who makes my life whole. Today, I vow to love you in ways words cannot fully express. I’ll prove to you every single day that you are—and will always be—the best decision of my life. Welcome to the family, Mrs. Simran Vishnu Walia.”

Oh my. That’s so romantic. I hadn’t pegged Vishnu to prepare such a romantic speech for our wedding.

I’m blushing furiously as I slip the ring on his finger. Before I can fully process that we’re married, he cups my face in his hands and kisses me. It’s not the chaste kiss I expected—it’s deep, passionate, claiming. His lips move against mine with a possessive tenderness that makes my toes curl, and I can feel his smile against my mouth. Every nerve in my body ignites as I kiss him back, fully aware of everyone watching, but too lost in the moment to care.

We’re interrupted by Veer’s excited squeals. I scoop him up, showering his chubby cheeks with kisses before passing him to Vishnu, who holds him with such pride it makes my heart ache. Watching him kiss our son’s forehead, knowing Veer now officially bears his father’s name, brings tears to my eyes.

The photographer captures everything—our family portraits, our couple photos, where Vishnu is adorably awkward at first, until he gets the hang of it. But all through, his attention keeps drifting to Zane, and I can’t help but pout.

“My newly wedded husband should have his eyes on me, not on the man he’s jealous of,” I whisper.

Vishnu holds me close for the next pose, and we both smile for the camera. “I’ll give you all my attention during our wedding night.”

I flush at his boldness. He was so loud that I believe the photographer heard it too.

“I’m already too sore for any action today,” I protest weakly.

“Bailing out on our wedding night already, Simran? Not done. It’s, after all, an important ritual, and we Walias are very particular about following every ritual. We never ever skip any, you see.”

Really? I know he’s just teasing me, and as I’m about to reply, his phone rings. The change in his demeanour is instant. Vishnu’s entire body tenses as if he’s been waiting for this exact call.

“I need to take this,” he says, excusing himself and gestures for Abhay to keep an eye on things before stepping out.

I roll my eyes as he signals Abhay to watch over me specifically. Really, who would harm me here? It’s just Claire and Zane, along with our ever-present security guards. I look at Abhay, who stands there with a fierce expression on his face. My gaze veers towards where Vishnu went. There was something in the way he looked at that phone that makes me wonder what else is happening on our wedding day.