-21-
"All I want to say is I am ready for everything, but I have a few conditions," she spoke, her hand gripping the head of the chair near her. He looked up lazily, putting his document away and fixing his cold, calculating gaze on her.
"Why do you think you can put your conditions in front of me?
" he stated, his tone dripping with disdain.
She bit her lower lip as he got up from his plush executive leather chair, coming around his massive mahogany desk to stand in front of her.
The high-backed chair, now empty, seemed to loom behind him, a symbol of his authority and the power dynamics in the room.
He dressed in a white shirt which was folded till his elbow and his black pants was looking anything but sinful.
His hair disheveled was making her feel wetness down there.
She bit her lower lip to control her emotions from going haywire.
"Raghav, I think these conditions would be in your favor more than mine," she spoke, trying to keep her voice steady as he leaned against his desk. His eyes bore into hers with an intensity that made it difficult for her to continue speaking without stuttering.
"I see. Continue," he stated, his words laced with mockery. She felt her resolve waver but forced herself to go on.
"After our marriage, I will stay at my place on weekdays and be with you on weekends," she whispered, her voice barely audible. She bit her lower lip, realizing how wrong it sounded.
"I mean at your place," she corrected herself quickly.
"I would be glad not to see you at all," he uttered, shaking his head in amusement.
"Then you don't have to marry me. It would be in my best interest," she snapped, her frustration boiling over. But the icy look he gave her made her immediately regret raising her voice.
"Watch your tone," he hissed, his voice dangerously low. He grabbed her arm, pulling her towards him, his grip firm and unyielding, making her heart race in fear.
"And the second condition is that if we are doing this as a deal, we wouldn't have any physical relationship," she stammered, her voice trembling.
Silence hung heavily in the air, and Jayasvi kept her gaze down, anxiety gnawing at her.
She soon heard him laughing, a sound that made her look up in confusion.
His laughter felt cruel, dismissive of the seriousness of her words.
Before she could process it, she felt his hands around her waist, lifting her effortlessly and settling her on top of the table. His hands rested on either side of her, trapping her in place. His face was inches from hers, his breath warm against her skin.
"What makes you think you wouldn't long to get fucked by me?" he questioned, his voice a dangerous, deep growl. Jayasvi flinched at his choice of words, her discomfort growing with his proximity.
"Can you please talk properly with me," she stammered out, her fists clenched in frustration. She hated how much effect he had on her, how her body reacted despite the turmoil within her. Meeting his gaze, she felt more vulnerable than ever.
He leaned closer to her right ear, his breath hot and heavy. She shivered, a whimper escaping her lips as he bit her earlobe.
"Trust me, darling, once I am done with you, you won't be able to stay even a day without me.
So whatever conditions you are placing right now, they will all go out the window the night you spend with me," he whispered, his voice deeper and more seductive than ever.
Her already fast breathing quickened, the intensity of his words sending shivers down her spine.
Everything in her was telling her to give in, to succumb to the magnetic pull he had on her. But she gathered her resolve, placing her hand on his chest and pushing him slightly. She looked into his eyes, trying to maintain her seriousness.
"I have given this a lot of thought. I understand you'll want to have kids as well. We can go for artificial insemination. I don't have any trouble with it," she breathed out, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her.
"What stupid book are you reading these days?" he said, his tone turning cold, making her frown.
"Yes, because this can't be your thought.
I can't believe the girl who was ready to get naked in front of me in this office with just a few kisses, the same girl who loses herself with my touch, thinks that she could ignore me when we are staying in the same room, on the same bed, sleeping together," he mocked making her embarrassed at his humiliation.
His face dipped to her neck, sucking on her soft skin, making her whimper.
She closed her eyes, fisting her hand, telling herself to push him away.
The more intensely he sucked on her skin, the more she was losing herself.
He came between her legs, resting one hand on her back and the other on her braided hair, pulling it slightly to raise her head and gain more access to her neck.
When fighting wasn't a solution, her arms wrapped around his shoulders, pulling him closer.
"Do you want to stop me, Jayasvi?" he breathed, kissing her jaw.
"No," she breathed out, her voice even lower than a whisper, her eyes desperately asking him to touch her.
"That's like my good girl," he said, smiling at her, but even his smile sent chills through her body.
There was something so dominating in him that she couldn't help but bow every time he shows a little power on her.
He wrapped his right arm around her waist, placing the other in her hair, and dipped his face to capture her lips with his.
She clutched his coat tightly as he sucked on her lips.
He teased her lips with his tongue, making her whisper.
"I am so sorry." Their movement came to a halt as they heard a loud sound, pulling them out of their world.
They pulled away as Jayasvi looked to the side in embarrassment, knowing Karan had seen them doing something they shouldn't be doing.
She got down from the table, hiding behind Raghav, while he ran his hands through his hair.
"I didn't see anything. You can continue," Karan grinned, looking at Raghav. Jayasvi tried to cover her cheeks to hide the redness.
"I think I should leave," she mumbled, already ready to go.
"What? No, bhabhi. I thought we'd have dinner together today," Karan said.
Jayasvi glanced at Raghav, who was still watching her intently. "I can't really stay till dinner. My family must be waiting for me," she said softly, her voice barely audible. Her face was crimson, still embarrassed at the situation in which she was found.
"Oh please, Bhabhi. Raghav is your fiancé.
You can spend time with him. It's not really a crime, and also, stop being embarrassed.
You and Raghav are going to get married.
You were doing nothing wrong. In London, I see it regularly," Karan spoke, wanting her to get comfortable.
Jayasvi could now understand why she could hear an accent in his voice, and his comforting words were embarrassing her more.
"I'll talk to your mother," Raghav spoke. Jayasvi looked at him, biting her lower lip. She didn't really have any choice but to agree. She sighed, nodding her head.
Jayasvi picked up her phone and purse, which she had carelessly placed on the chair, checking for any possible messages but actually just wanting to look busy at the moment.
"Let's go. It's almost time for dinner," Karan spoke. Jayasvi checked the time to find it was 6:45. She was so late. She noticed her mother's missed call asking her when she'd return. She saw Raghav speaking to her mother as Karan escorted her out of his cabin.
They moved towards the elevator with the two tall men. Jayasvi suddenly felt like she was too short when she had always considered herself fairly tall her whole life.
"Bhabhi, do you have any sisters?" Karan asked her, attracting her attention. She frowned at his question, shaking her head.
"I am an only child," she spoke softly.
"Damn you, Raghav. You got really lucky," Karan spoke, hitting his fist on Raghav's arm. She was standing a little behind them as the men stood in front of the elevator. Raghav passed a sharp look at Karan as the elevator stopped at the parking basement.
He moved towards his car while Jayasvi and Karan followed him. Once he got inside his Mercedes, it took Jayasvi's breath away for a moment.
"You know he has an obsession with such cars," Karan spoke, looking at Jayasvi. Raghav hit the horn, silently telling them to get inside.
"Bhabhi, you sit in the front," Karan spoke, opening the door for her.
"No, I am comfortable in the back. I don't feel good in the front," Jayasvi spoke, a white lie not wanting to sit anywhere near Raghav. She just wanted to stay away from him at the moment.
"If you say so," Karan spoke, opening the back door for her. Jayasvi thanked him, smiling softly at him as she entered inside. He closed the door after making sure she was comfortable before entering himself as well. Soon the car started moving.
"Bhabhi, when is your birthday?" Karan asked, turning back to look at her, curiosity clear in his voice. Jayasvi was taken aback by his question. She looked at Raghav, who seemed concentrated on the road. She could see how four cars covered his as they got out of the parking area.
"29 November," she spoke softly. Raghav never asked her such questions ever.
"It's in 10 days. Wow," Karan spoke, smiling.
"What is your age, by the way?" he asked further, turning his whole concentration on her. Jayasvi's eyes moved towards the rearview mirror to find Raghav's eyes on her. She gulped slightly.
"I'll turn 21," she spoke softly, smiling uncomfortably.
"Damn! You are young," Karan whistled. Jayasvi smiled at his words.
"Oye Raghav, how did you get this precious diamond?" Karan spoke, turning to look at Raghav.
Raghav smirked, his eyes briefly meeting Jayasvi's in the mirror before focusing back on the road. "Pure luck," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of hunger, possessiveness and pride. Jayasvi turned crimson at the way he looked at her.
Jayasvi looked out the window, her mind racing with thoughts of the future.
She couldn't help but feel a mix of apprehension and hope, wondering how this complicated relationship would unfold.
For now, she decided to take one step at a time, trusting that somehow, they would navigate through the complexities together.
The car ride to the restaurant was mostly quiet, punctuated by Karan's occasional chatter. Jayasvi couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and anticipation. The city lights blurred past her window, creating a surreal atmosphere that made her feel like she was living in a dream.
The car eventually pulled up to the grand entrance of a luxurious hotel.
The doorman promptly opened the doors, and Jayasvi stepped out, followed by Karan and Raghav.
She marveled at the grandeur of the hotel, its elegant architecture, and the opulent chandeliers that adorned the lobby.
She felt out of the place. Everything screamed money here.
"This way, Bhabhi," Karan said with a grin, leading her towards the entrance. Raghav walked beside her, his hand resting lightly on her back, guiding her through the lavish surroundings. She looked at his side biting her lower lip at the intimate touch he'll provide her now and then.
They were escorted to a private dining room, elegantly set with a long table covered in pristine white linen and adorned with beautiful floral arrangements. Soft, ambient lighting created an intimate and warm atmosphere.
"This place is amazing," Jayasvi said softly, glancing around in awe.
"It's one of Raghav's favorites," Karan replied, pulling out a chair for her. "He has a knack for finding the best places in the city."
Raghav took a seat at the head of the table, with Jayasvi on his right and Karan on his left. The waiter promptly appeared, handing out menus and taking their drink orders. Jayasvi couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed by the attention and the grandeur of it all.
As they waited for their food, Karan kept the conversation light, asking Jayasvi about her interests, hobbies, and future plans. She appreciated his efforts to make her feel comfortable, though she couldn't shake off the nervousness completely.
"What's your favorite food, Bhabhi?" Karan questioned.
"Nothing favorite, actually. Everything my mother cooks is my favorite," she replied, smiling slightly.
"Yes, but everybody has something they love the most, right?" he insisted.
"I like Pav Bhaji, Chole Bhature, and Ras Malai," she said, expecting them not to have tasted these delicacies.
"You seem really fit for somebody who likes that kind of food," Karan joked, making her cheeks crimson again. He was making her embarrassed now.
"What would you like to have now?" he asked, looking at the menu.
"Anything will work for me," Jayasvi said, glancing at Raghav, who was engrossed in his phone.
"Would you like to try Tandoori Chicken?" Karan suggested, making her eyes widen in surprise. He looked at her with confusion before realization dawned on him.
"Don't tell me, you're a vegetarian," he gasped slightly. Jayasvi nodded, not understanding what was so shocking about it.
"You know, Raghav used to have chicken when we were in London. When he returned, he turned into a pure vegetarian," Karan said, looking at the couple and already giving up his dream of having chicken tonight.
Jayasvi glanced at Raghav, who looked up from his phone and met her gaze. "It's true," he said simply. "I made a choice to switch to a vegetarian diet." Jayasvi just realised how less they know about each other. It just feels so wrong.
Their food arrived shortly after, a variety of vegetarian dishes that looked and smelled delicious. Jayasvi felt a bit more at ease seeing the familiar dishes.
As they ate, Karan continued to keep the mood light with his stories about Raghav's time in London.
Jayasvi found herself smiling more easily, her earlier nervousness slowly melting away.
But eating in front of them felt so difficult.
This was one of the things about her. She couldn't just eat anywhere.
Eating outside always made her feel awkward that's why even if she wants to eat outside food, she'll order it home.
"Raghav was quite the party animal back then," Karan said with a chuckle. "But look at him now, all serious and responsible."
Raghav shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "Things change, Karan."
After sometime, Karan excused himself to take a call, leaving Jayasvi and Raghav alone. The silence between them was thick with unspoken words.
"Don't try to be too friendly to him. There was no need to share your birthday with him," Raghav stated, filling a glass of water for himself. She looked at him in shock. Was she expected to ignore him?
"I'll take a cab back home," she said, getting up to leave.
"Sit back down. Don't pull up a drama again. I made myself clear how I am not going to take this behavior of yours," he stated coldly. She felt her eyes tearing up at his words.
"Raghav, aap kyu pehle jaise nahi ho sakte.
Main koshish kar rahi hu ki aapko pareshan na karu.
Par aap aise behave kyu karte hai jaise maine kuch bohot bura kar diya hai," she stammered, trying to hold back her sobs.
(Raghav, why can't you behave like before?
I am trying not to trouble you, but why are you acting like I have done something very wrong to you?)
"Jayasvi, I was working the whole day. Can you stop irritating me?" he spoke, banging his fist on the table making her flinch, his voice louder, cutting through the air. She took a deep breath, wiping away the tears that had escaped her eyes.
Karan came back with a bright smile. "Why are you guys not eating?" he asked, seeing her untouched plate.
"I am full," Jayasvi replied softly.
"Bhabhi, you just had one piece of naan. It in no way can calm anyone's hunger," Karan insisted, looking at Raghav.
"How is Meera doing?" Raghav asked him, changing the subject.
"She was calling me just now. She is busy with the fashion week," Karan spoke, a soft smile covering his lips.
"Bhabhi, what happened to your hand?" Karan asked as his eyes fell on her wounded hand. Jayasvi looked at Raghav, not knowing what to say.
"She fell down and glass pierced her palm," Raghav spoke, continuing to eat his food.
Karan looked concerned. "You should be careful, Bhabhi. Are you okay, now?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.
Jayasvi nodded, forcing a smile. "I'm fine, Karan bhaiya. Thank you for asking."
Karan sighed, sensing the tension between the couple.
"Well, I hope you take care of yourself.
We wouldn't want our future sister-in-law getting hurt.
And you know it feels really nice to hear bhaiya from you.
Your voice is really sweet". Karan felt a warmth inside him when he heard her referring him as her brother.
It just felt so pure. All his life, he found girls who were attracted to him physically so he never knew how this felt.
Now that he heard it, he felt really happy with the feeling.
Raghav finished his meal and stood up, signaling it was time to leave. "We should go," he said, his tone firm.
Karan paid the bill even when Jayasvi tried to pay for her part, and they made their way to the car. The ride back was silent, the earlier warmth and laughter now replaced by an uncomfortable tension.
When they reached near Jayasvi's place as insisted by Jayasvi. "I'll see you later," Rishabh came to pick her up. He passed a sharp look to Raghav.
As they drove away, Karan waved at Jayasvi.
She smiled waving back. As she watched them leave, Jayasvi felt a mix of emotions swirling within her as the smile slowly disappeared.
The evening had started with a glimmer of hope but ended in confusion and sadness.
She couldn't help but wonder if things would ever change between them.