CHAPTER 42
VIKRAM
I decide to drive Maahi to the Boutique myself. As she emerges from our room, my breath catches. She's wearing a red Anarkali dress – my favorite color. The intricate embroidery and single dori detailing are exquisite.
“You designed this one?” I ask, starting the engine.
Maahi beams with pride. “Yes, isn't it lovely? The fabric looks rough but it's actually very smooth and comfortable.”
I can't resist teasing her. “How would I know? I haven't touched it yet.”
Her cheeks flush instantly, matching her dress. “Please focus on the drive, Vikram,” she retorts, trying to hide her smile. “And will you pick me up this evening?”
“What am I now? Your personal driver?” I quip, but we both know I'd drive her anywhere she asked.
Maahi raises an eyebrow at me. “If being my driver bothers you so much, I can always drive myself home.”
“I'll be here to pick you up,” I assure.
Maahi stares at me, her eyes wide with disbelief. “Gosh! When did you become so sweet? Where's my arrogant Prince Pompous gone?”
I can't help but smirk. “Oh, you'll see him soon enough, Cub. Just wait and watch. If you sleep tonight without giving me my share of happiness, you'll face him very soon.”
“I kind of miss him, you know,” she admits, crinkling her nose adorably. “Maybe I'll sleep early tonight, and then the real Prince Pompous can wake me up with his attitude and arrogance tomorrow morning? I don't really mind dealing with him anymore.”
“Be careful what you ask for, Cub,” I warn, my voice low. “Your Prince Pompous's desires might have intensified since we've been apart.” That shuts her up, a blush creeping across her cheeks.
As I drop her off at the boutique, I step out of the car with her.
“Where are you heading now? Devki Estate?” she asks.
I nod, “Yes, I want to see the work progress.” Then I remember, “When is Preet's wedding?”
“Next Monday. We have to fly to Udaipur to attend it.”
“I'm aware. I'll ask Ajay to book our tickets,” I assure her.
“Perfect,” she smiles.
Maahi rises on her toes and places a warm kiss on my cheek. The simple gesture is enough to reignite my desire for her. She wipes the wetness from my skin, her fingers lingering longer than necessary.
“I still can't believe you're here for me,” she murmurs, her eyes shining.
I pull her wrist and bite her finger gently making her yelp.
“Now do you believe?” I ask. “That I’m here?”
“Smart.” Maahi chuckles pinching my cheeks.
“Now go,” I say, my voice husky, “before I drag you back to the car and take you home.”
I pat her lower back, gently pushing her towards the boutique. She smiles, waving once before disappearing inside. I slide my sunglasses on and get back in the car, heading for Devki Estate.
By the time I arrive and park, my phone beeps with a message from Maahi:
'Missing you already.'
A smile spreads across my face as I read her words. I'm about to reply when Shukla, the manager of Devki Estate, approaches to greet me. Reluctantly, I pocket my phone and turn my attention to the construction progress, my thoughts still lingering on Maahi.