CHAPTER 40
MAAHI
India
It’s been a month since Daadi and I returned to India and resumed our routine. I used to love the daily grind here, but now, every part of it reminds me of Vikram. Despite my busy schedule, I still make time to cook before heading to my boutique. Daadi and I do the morning puja together, and none of my nights pass without massaging her head or feet. Once I'm in bed, all my time belongs to Vikram, who is either heading to his office or already there, making executive decisions. As promised, we text each other despite our crazy time zone differences. When it’s my time to sleep, I send him sexy messages, teasing him about what could have been if he were here. And when it’s his time to sleep, which is my start of the day, he video calls me, showing the empty bed and himself shirtless, making me want to take another cold shower. Though we enjoy these little moments, we miss each other terribly.
The work at Devki Estate’s old age home is progressing well. There haven’t been any intrusions from Vanraj uncle’s side to stop us. I even took Daadi to see the progress, and every time she visited, she returned home in tears. Seeing her dream come true gives Vikram and me immense relief and happiness.
I meet Preet and thank her for telling Vikram about my bucket list, which he fulfilled during my stay in New York. Preet teases me for details, and I share a few lovely moments from the trip, omitting the intimate ones. When she teases me for more, all I do is blush. I am happily married, and it shows in my demeanor, the glow on my face, and the smile on my lips. Vikram and I might not have consummated our marriage in the traditional sense yet, but what we have between us is enough to pave the way for a happy future.
Vikram doesn’t know I’m planning to open a new branch of Blush Boutique in New York, thanks to Elise, the fashion designer Vikram introduced me to. She’s guiding me on setting up my business there, despite being my competitor. But this won’t happen overnight; it might take months. I wonder how we’ll manage this long-distance until then.
It’s late Friday evening when I drive Daadi back home. I know she misses her family, and I don’t want to see her sulking more. So, I spend as much time as I can with her to keep her engaged.
As soon as I grab my purse from the backseat, I realize my phone is vibrating. It’s Vikram calling.
“Maahi, why aren’t you picking up my calls?” he barks.
“Sorry,” I apologize, hoping he won’t mind my carelessness. “Just got back home.”
He eases up. “Where were you?”
“Satsang. With Daadi.” I drop my purse on the couch and sit down.
“Isn’t this the third time this month you’re attending Satsang?”
I’m surprised. “You’re keeping count?”
“I have to. I don’t want my wife turning fully religious like Daadi someday. I’m afraid when we meet again, you won’t let me touch you or worse you won’t even remember how to make love to your husband.”
I laugh heartily at his mocking.
“You’ve taught me so well that I can’t forget it for the rest of my life,” I tease.
“Maahi…” He exhales. “I need a cold shower now.”
“Again?” I giggle, knowing he already had one as it was the start of his day in New York.
“Again, Cub. It’s been recurrent since you left.”
“Aww,” I pout. “Better change the subject, or I’ll need a shower too. So, coming to that… I need your permission.”
“For what?”
I get up and head to my bedroom. “To visit Leela Mahal.”
“Two things, Cub. One, you don’t need my permission for anything. You’re free to make your own decisions. And two, you own a platinum band for Leela Mahal, which means you can visit anytime. I made that clear last time we were there. But…”
I swallow. That last word makes me feel hot. He might give me access to his club and decision-making power, but he’s still possessive of me, and that ‘but’ will soon clarify his rules.
“But what?” I ask.
“You’re mine. And though I trust my wife completely, I don’t trust the men who are members of that club. If you go there, my eyes will be on you until you exit and reach Ratna Mahal safely.”
I bite my lip.
“No arguments and no questions asked,” he adds.
“That sounds like dominance to me,” I remark.
“I said no arguments and no questions asked, Maahi,” he repeats.
“It was just a remark. I never said I didn’t like your dominance. Not always, but at times... in specific situations like this I love it,” I tease.
I hear the sound of the shower, meaning he was serious about needing one. I begin to imagine what he’s doing under the showerhead, but Vikram interrupts my thoughts.
“Now, tell me why you want to visit Leela Mahal.”
“I want to throw a bachelorette party for Preet. She’s getting married in two weeks, and since it’s a destination wedding, she’ll fly with her family to Udaipur next week for pre-wedding rituals. So, I’m planning to throw the party before she flies.”
Preet got engaged two weeks ago, and Daadi and I attended her engagement. It’s an arranged marriage, but she’s extremely happy to meet Akshay, who is soft-hearted, kind, and far too innocent compared to her.
“She’s my best friend and has partially contributed to our growing bond, hasn’t she? This is the least I could do for her,” I add.
“Hmm. This sounds good. I’ll ask Darcy to assist you with organizing the party.”
“Darcy?” I’m confused.
“The manager of Leela Mahal. You’ve met her a few times,” he reminds me.
“Oh, yes. I didn’t know her name.”
I recall Darcy escorting me to meet Vikram at Leela Mahal and being there when the club organized our wedding reception.
“Feel free to choose the themes and ideas Darcy offers,” Vikram continues. “She’s the best at this.”
“Are you sure?” I mock.
“Sure in what sense?” His husky voice tickles my insides. The shower sound is still there, and I wonder if he likes to shower while listening to my voice. Is that his way of relaxing in my absence? What am I thinking? I feel flushed and am glad this isn’t a video call, though I wouldn’t mind if it was.
“Maahi?”
“Yes, I’m here. Actually, can we talk after you finish your shower?”
“Why? Is that bothering you?”
His earlier voice was husky and smooth, but now it’s dark and dangerous. I can imagine his eyes widening and his fists clenching for not being able to touch me. We are thousands of miles apart.
“Vikram, please finish your shower and get back to work. Call me at night, okay?” I insist.
“Uh-huh.” I can feel him smirking. “Promise me you’ll think about us when you go to bed.”
“You don’t need to tell me that. I always do.”
I give him a kiss over the phone and hang up. Why am I panting?
***************
It takes me a week to plan everything with Darcy, from the bachelorette party's theme for Preet, to the games, drinks, starters, dress codes, gifts, and, most importantly... the men. Though I was initially hesitant, Darcy and my friends insisted that the party wouldn't be complete without them. After discussing it with Darcy, I learned that some male models, enjoy entertaining brides and their friends at such events. Knowing that Darcy, as the manager of Leela Mahal, would likely report everything to Vikram, I feel assured. My husband trusts me completely. What more do I need? I agree to have men at the party.
I have already bought a sexy dress for the occasion. As the host, I need to look the part. All the invitees have received special silver bands for access to the club that night. Preet is thrilled, and so are the other girls. This party is going to be amazing!
****************
Today, I'm with Preet, helping her pick out a sexy dress for the party, which is in three days, when my phone rings with an incoming video call from Vikram. I quickly gesture for Preet to continue trying on dresses and step aside to take the call.
“Hi,” I smile, waving at him on my phone screen. He's in a three-piece grey suit, sitting in his office chair. He must have just arrived at work, as it's already 8:00 PM here in India.
“Darcy called,” he says bluntly, and I bite my lip.
“Okay...”
“Men?” he growls. “Seriously, Cub?”
“Are you jealous?”
“That's not the point. You didn't tell me about this before.”
“Last-minute additions,” I reply curtly. “Not that you need to worry. I am yours.”
He rolls his eyes. I don’t see why he has a problem with there being men at the party.
“You trust me, don't you? And you'll have your eyes on me the whole time. Plus, who would dare flirt with the club owner's wife?”
That lightens his mood a bit.
“What are you wearing?” he asks.
I adjust the camera to show him my jeans.
“Not today, Maahi. What will you wear for the party?”
“Oh,” I giggle. “A dress.”
“Short?” he queries.
I nod.
“What color?” He clears his throat, shifting in his seat.
“Black.”
He nods.
“Straps?”
“Spaghetti straps,” I clarify, noticing him gulping. Is that fear or anger?
“Come on, Vikram. It’s Leela Mahal we’re talking about, and I’m hosting the party. You can’t expect me to wear traditional clothes.”
“Never,” he agrees. “Wear what you're comfortable in.”
“That dress is very comfortable. It’s satiny soft and... perfect. But I won’t wear it from Ratna Mahal; I'll change once I’m at Leela Palace. Daadi wouldn’t mind but still.”
“Did you show that dress to Daadi?”
“I did. She loved it,” I wink. “She even suggested I wear it when you're around. I’ll send you pictures when I wear it during the party.”
Vikram gazes at me for a long moment while I tell him about the games we have planned. He stays silent, just staring.
“Vikram,” I sigh. “I can change my outfit and cancel the idea of inviting men if that will make you feel better.”
A smile appears on his face.
“You mean it?” he asks, and I grin.
“I mean it, but I’d like to wear that dress. It’s...”
“Then go ahead.”
“Really?” I jump in joy.
“Yes, Cub. Enjoy your party.”
“Oh my God. I’d kiss you for being so lovable, Prince Pompous.”
“Thank your stars I’m not there right now,” he warns. “We’d get arrested for making out in those trial rooms behind you.”
I laugh. We talk for a few more minutes before I hang up to help Preet with her dress selection.
Spinster Party
The night of the party, Leela Mahal's top floor is transformed into a magical venue, complete with music, drinks, and food. It feels like a reunion with all our school and college friends invited. Preet looks stunning in a black gown with a long slit on her left leg. She's lost some weight for her wedding, and she looks amazing.
As the host, I check on the guests and ensure everyone is having a great time. Darcy is busy coordinating with the staff, and everyone has a drink in hand. The men are indeed good-looking, but I don’t mingle much. I might not be wearing a mangalsutra, but a small dot of sindoor on my forehead signifies my marital status.
Wearing a black satin dress with spaghetti straps, I check my watch. It’s 9:00 PM, meaning Vikram's morning has started in the US. I decide to give him a peek at my outfit to brighten his day. I excuse myself, take a selfie in front of the mirror, showing off my dress and send it to Vikram.
As I rejoin the fun, the music gets louder. Everything is going great until I receive a message from an unknown number:
‘Those long legs, sexy thighs, and flawless curves. Epitome of a perfect woman you are.’
What the hell? I scan the room, trying to spot the sender, but have no luck. It must be one of the men hired for tonight? But how did he get my number? I grab a glass of wine, determined not to let this ruin my mood. A minute later, another message buzzes:
‘It’s a shame you have to drink that wine alone. I can keep you company tonight.’
That’s it. My blood boils. I need to find this man and have him thrown out. And why hasn’t Vikram replied to my message yet? The lack of his response and this stranger’s flirting kills my mood. Preet notices my agitation but I give her a reassuring nod before heading to Darcy.
“Darcy,” I say, “I need a favor.”
“Sure, Ma'am.”
“But you need to promise me not to tell my husband.”
Darcy looks conflicted.
“I'm sorry, Ma'am, but that seems complicated. I don’t want to lose my job if Boss finds out.”
“I’ll save your job, I promise. I don’t want to bother my husband, which is why I’m asking you.”
She thinks for a moment and then nods.
“Fine. What is it?”
I quickly share the unknown number with her.
“Can you find out who this number belongs to and trace that man for me?”
She nods.
“We have a team in admin who can do that. Anything else? Why is it important, if I may ask?”
“He’s sending texts, not dirty but not good either. I want him out of this party without disturbing anyone else. Can you handle that?”
“Yes, Ma'am. I’ll keep it confidential. I’ll also ask the guards to keep an eye out. Please don’t leave the premises alone. I’ll send a lady guard to escort you.”
“No, that’s not necessary.”
“It is, Ma'am. Vikram has strict orders to keep you safe. Let me do my job.”
My heart swells with pride. Vikram has everything covered for me. I hardly have to do anything to keep myself safe. I rejoin the party, cautious with every man I talk to. These men are friendly, and since most of them know I'm married to Vikram, no one makes a pass. Lucky me! But where the hell is my husband? I’m about to dial him when I see his reply on my phone.
‘Cub… Are you comfortable in that little dress?’
Aww! How very husbandly! I laugh to myself, hoping people around don’t think I’ve lost it. I type back a reply.
‘I think the zip is a bit uncomforting. Only if you could be here to help.’
My bold reply might force him to take a cold shower, but I like pushing him to the edge. Another message beeps from that unknown number.
‘Two shots of vodka with rum and wine, I’ll leave all of them if you spend time with me tonight.’
How dare he? I glare around and see Darcy rushing toward me. Looks like she has an update.
“We got him,” she says, pressing her lips together. “He’s on the third floor, just below this one, in one of the VIP booths.”
“Great. Good work, Darcy.”
“Thank you, Ma’am. But be careful. He’s powerful and…”
“Leave it to me.”
I head to the exit. Whoever this man is, he will end up beaten tonight if he doesn’t apologize. I don’t mind men flirting, but there are limits. If Vikram was here today, he’d be worse to him than I plan to be.
I reach the third floor and barge into the VIP booth where someone is sitting, facing the glass wall, which overlooks another party below.
“How dare you text those messages to me? You know whose wife I am?
“My wife,” he says, swirling his chair. I see his face. A shock sweeps through me. It’s my husband.
“What the!” I mouth, but words fail me. He’s here? Really here? Am I hallucinating?
Vikram takes his time to enjoy my outfit, his gaze burning every inch of my skin. I press my feet together as a surge of awkwardness and excitement gushes through me. I finally get to see him, but there are hundreds of questions running through my mind, waiting for his honest answers. Vikram rises to his feet and strides toward me.
“That’s one heck of a dress, Mrs. Maahi Singh Grover. Far less than what I had imagined. I didn’t know my wife had a fetish for such western outfits.”
His fingertips brush across my cheeks, down my throat.
“You’re blushing,” he says.
I hold his hand, taking a few seconds to absorb the fact that he’s here and we’re seeing each other after seven weeks.
“You... you sent me those messages from that unknown number?” I ask.
He nods. “Each one of them. To screw with your mind. I wanted to surprise you here, in this VIP booth. With me. Alone.”
He’s about to grab me for a hug, but I push him hard.
“How could you do this? I almost thought some stranger was texting me, and I was going to beat him up if he didn’t apologize.”
“Good. I want you to do that if it happens in the future. But I didn’t like you asking Darcy not to keep me in the loop. What was that for?”
Now it's my turn to feel awkward. Vikram gently grabs my jaw.
“Two things, Cub. Don’t hide anything from me, and never believe the people I work with will keep such things hidden from me either. They know who they have to deal with if they don’t obey my orders.”
I swallow painfully.
“While I have a lot to teach you on those fronts, I’ll ignore it for now to kiss you first. I’ve been waiting for this ever since you left New York.”
He’s about to kiss me when I rest my palms on his chest.
“What are you doing here, by the way? Shouldn’t you be in New York, earning a few more billions?”
“I came here to earn my wife’s love instead.”
His lopsided smile is enough to turn my legs to jelly. Love? Does he even realize he said that? He pulls me to his body.
“For... for how many days?” I gulp, crossing my fingers, hoping it’s at least a week. I’m not ready to say goodbye again so soon.
“A year…”
“What?” My eyes widen in shock. I pat his chest. “Vikram, stop teasing me. I’m serious.”
“I’m here for a year or even more, with a week off to New York every two months.”
I gape at Vikram, who has so much to tell me already if he’s serious about this.
“One of us had to initiate this, Cub. I wanted to be the first.”
Vikram’s words touch my heart, and the next second I crash my lips on his. By the time we pull back, I’m panting and his dark eyes are full of fire. But instead of continuing this, I’m more eager to know how Vikram could make the decision to fly back here and stay for such a long period with me and I when I ask him that, he finally shares how he broke the news to his parents.