My heartiest thanks for making this story take a huge jump from zero to rank 6 in rikara tag . As my welcome giving you my beloved readers a big chappy with Rikara's romance .

"Where is my bracelet?" I searched around the bed and looked at Omkara , who simply turned away, suddenly ignoring my presence.

"Itʼs not yours to keep." He muttered under his breath and I frowned at him.

"Omkara , let me keep it-"

"No, itʼs because of that thing, I can't seem to trace your presence every fucking-" he stopped to let out a huff and I started to get out of the bed when he took my shoulders, shaking his head.

"You need to rest."

"I have been resting for two days now, I want to see everyone and thank the guys too," I said, tossing the sheets and bolting up to my wardrobe.

I opened it, picking a random black mini skirt and a long sleeved pink sweater.

"You better not be here when I am done showering." I hissed, grabbing the towel and rushing inside.

After taking a long shower and contemplating a few things, I wore my clothes and stepped out, only to meet Omkara's piercing gaze again.

"I told you-"

"Iʼm keeping an eye on you Gauri, every second, every minute of every day from now on."

"Wow, okay, you need to take a step back because-" I sighed when I noticed how unamused and serious he was.

"Iʼm serious."

"Alright, but Omkara ?" I didnʼt turn to look at him as I started drying my hair with the towel but I could feel his intense staring as I let out a sigh.

"Iʼm going to visit my parents right now,"
"Iʼve already told them youʼre fine and-" "But I am still going."

"Youʼre not going anywhere, Gauri , I made that very clear last night," I stiffened when I felt his shirt brush against mine from behind.

"The answer is no, youʼre not-"

"Iʼm not asking for your permission, Omkara ," I turned to frown at him and noticed him flinch a little.

"I am going to see them, whether I have to force myself out or not. Theyʼre my parents and they deserve to at least hold their daughter after knowing she was almost kidnapped, again." I emphasized and Omkara simply stared at me, frustration and plead filling his eyes but I gave him another determined look before walking past him, leaving the room.

******

"Rudra, get off me!" I groaned, trying to push him off my body as he embraced me into the millionth hug.

"I thought we had lost you for sure this time." He whined and I noticed Ajay making a face in disgust before he rolled his eyes.

I smiled and thanked the boys, once again and stopped when Ishana cleared her throat, brushing her hair to a side.

"You too, Ishana, thank you." I smiled a little and she simply nodded as the guys and I went back to chatting.

"Iʼm really glad youʼre fine." I heard Shivaay say but for some reason, I couldnʼt bring myself to look at him at all, instead, I just smiled at the other guys and went back to chatting.

"So Iʼm visiting my parents today," I flinched when I noticed everyone immediately frown at my news.

"Donʼt worry, I talked to Omkara and maybe one of you can tag along with me, put me off and then pick me up when I give a call?"

"Gauri , I really donʼt think itʼs safe for you to-"
"Iʼll only take a few hours." I cut off Abhay and eyed Omkara , who joined us at the sofa as well.

"Iʼll go with you."

"No!" I snapped as soon as Shivaay started to get up and I noticed something flash in his eyes before the boys raised a brow at my outburst.

"I can just go with Ishana, if she doesnʼt mind?" I looked at Ishana and surprisingly, she nodded with a smile.

What was wrong with me? Did I actually believe Veer when he mentioned Shivaay working for him? I mean, his phone number really-

"Letʼs go before Omkara changes his mind, sweetie." Ishana got up and I glanced at Omkara , who just kept silent, his eyes locked on mine as I stood up as well.

"Gauri -"

"Itʼll only take an hour or so." I cut him off immediately and hurried my way out with Ishana. I got into the car and noticed Omkara walking out, his eyes not ripping away from me as we drove off.

****

"Youʼve been here for quiet a while now, beta, are you sure itʼll be okay?" my motherʼs voice asked softly as she placed a plate of aloo paratha on the table.

I nodded with a smile and hugged her one more time before turning to eat my food.

"We were so worried-"

"Mom, if you keep talking about it, youʼll end up crying for the third time since I came here." I gave her a small pout and watched her laugh weakly, her eyes still glimmering in tears.

"We made a mistake," my father croaked out and I snapped my head towards him.

"To let you go that day." He glanced at my mother only once before taking a sip out of his wine and I went silent.

"If living with Omkara is putting you in danger then-"

"Maa, itʼs fine, we donʼt have to go there," I cut her off, slightly hurt and frustrated by their words.

"What were you guys expecting anyways?" I muttered under my breath and I noticed the hurt flash in their eyes before they exchanged glances.

"We were only trying to-"

"It doesnʼt matter now, Iʼm sorry I made it sound like that." I smiled weakly before continuing to finish up the pasta. I canʼt ruin today, a chance like this was hard to come.

Hell, I might never get a chance to see them again, considering the fact that I already passed my "curfew."

"Is she here?!" I heard familiar voices from the sitting room before Bhavya and Ranveer popped out of nowhere, causing my jaws to drop open.

"Oh my god!" Bhavya threw herself at me as soon as I got up and I laughed a short before hugging her back and then Ranveer .

"We heard everything, itʼs crazy." Bhavya grabbed my hand and Ranveer agreed, narrowing his eyes at me in worry.

"I donʼt want to hear that from you after you legit ditched me there." I folded my hands across my chest and Bhavya simply gave me a cheeky grin before sighing.

"I had to, my parents are really sick and I had no choice but to leave without a notice.

I called Omkara multiple times but he refused to put you on the phone, that bastard kept going on about what was in it for him and-"

"Donʼt start." I cut her off with a laugh and Bhavya let out a huff in frustration.

"Iʼll leave you guys to catch up on." My mother chimed in with a smile and we nodded with a grin before rushing up to my room.

Hours passed with us catching up and me spilling the beans on Veer.

Ranveer would curse every five seconds and go on about how Omkara was irresponsible for not being able to take care of me while Bhavya would go on and on about the horrible things she was going to do when she catches Veer.

"Beta," my mother suddenly bursted inside the room and I snapped my head to look at her panicked form.

"Itʼs Omkara ." She said softly, handing me her phone and I let out a sigh before taking it.

"Yes?"

"Itʼs already 9 pm, you said you'd only take an hour."

"Omkara Iʼm fine, stop worrying." I stopped when I heard him let out a sigh.

"Tell him to chill." Ranveer said out loud and I hissed at him to keep quiet.

"Who was that?" Omkara's voice turned all serious.

"Thatʼs Ranveer , the one we met the mall a month ago." I stated softly and bit my bottom lip when I heard him let out a huff in frustration.

"Come back right now." He said in a dangerously low tone and I know for a fact that he was getting mad now.

"Om-"

"Come back right now, Gauri."

"Iʼll be there in a while, alright." I said finally and hung up the phone before shaking my head at everyone, indicating that everything was alright.

*****

"Iʼll get the door," Bhavya shouted and Mark and I paused the movie we had been watching in the sitting room and groaned in annoyance.

"What the....." I heard her Bhavya trail off and I turned to look at Omkara walking in, causing my jaws to drop open.

"Omkara , what are you doing here?" I asked stupidly, glancing at my parents, who were now bowing their heads in respect.

His eyes met mine and I gulped softly when I noticed them growing a shade darker before they met Ranveer's, causing a shiver down my spine.

"Weʼre leaving." He said softly yet harshly, bolting up to me and grabbing my hand, almost dragging me out as I motioned my parents to call me back.

"Are you mad or jealous because Ranveer was there?" I jumped right to conclusion, adjusting myself back in the seat as Omkara speeded up, his hand clenching the wheel tightly.

"Because heʼs just a friend-"

"I didnʼt ask." He cut me off and I noticed his jawline flicker before narrowing his eyes on the road.

I sighed and decided to brush it off, knowing that he wouldnʼt calm down anytime soon anyways.

"Did you eat?" I glanced at Omkara as we got out of the car and I noticed that he didnʼt look up to meet my gaze now.

His face looked exhausted, or sad? Or was he sulking?

Shaking my thoughts away, I walked into the mansion first with Omkara following behind me as we both started walking up the stairs.

"You look tired, you should eat, I can join you if you want-" I gasped when someone grabbed my hand before spinning me around and the next thing I knew, his lips were covered perfectly on mine, a hand already tangled around my neck as he deepened the kiss.

"Wait," I mumbled in between the kiss, pulling away a little only to be pulled back in as we stumbled our way up the stairs, not parting our lips the whole way.

I blushed when I realized how rough the kiss was beginning to feel and kept stumbling every now and then as Omkara guided me to my room.

"Omkara -" I pulled away and gasped when he pushed me against the door, pausing to look for just a second before leaning into another kiss, causing the butterflies in my stomach to go on a rampage.

I mentally whined when he pulled away, pressing his forehead against mine before staring into my eyes, calming down his heavy breaths.

"What?" I whispered, hoping he would explain why he just went kissed me out of the blue.

"Were you justifying your jealousy?" he narrowed his eyes a little before they flickered on my lips again, causing my breath to hitch.

Just as his lips were about to brush against mine, his gaze landed back on my eyes before he pulled away, making me frown in confusion.

"There is a small dance tonight, weʼre only inviting a few humans, once we know and are close with," Omkara started and I scoffed before raising a brow at his obvious attempt to change the subject.

"Wear something nice." He pinched my chin and I brushed his hand away before plastering on a smile.

"Okay."

"Actually scratch that, wear something thatʼs less revealing, okay ?"

"Iʼm fine with this." I made a face and he raised a brow before frowning slightly.

"But thatʼs-" before he could finish, I opened my door, walking in and quickly locking it. I could hear him banging on the door a couple of times, calling my name before letting out a huff in defeat.

Serves you right Omkara Singh Oberoi.

*****

"You can suggest a song if you want, my lady," the butler walked up to me and I shook my head, staring at the dancing girls and guys. Some were slow dancing, while the rest were just going all out.

"We usually choose songs that fits to the mood."

"What a weird and wasteful event." I sighed, glancing at Omkara , who was literally still staring at me, causing me to sigh in annoyance.

"Does he not know that itʼs rude to stare?" I grumbled under my breath and I swear I saw him raise a brow just as those words left my mouth.

"He can hear you, my lady." The butler chuckled before bowing at me and then leaving me behind.

"Hey." A familiar voice caused a shiver down my spine and I slowly turned around to face Shivaay as he smiled at me. I didnʼt even bother to return the smile, instead, I just nodded, turning to leave when he grabbed my hand, spinning me around.

"Are you mad at me or something?"

"What?"

"Youʼve been avoiding me ever since you returned, is everything okay?" he squeezed my hands and I went silent, quickly brushing it away and shaking my head.

"Iʼm just tired." I lied, not meeting his eyes and looked up at Omkara but to my disappointment, he was now talking to Ishana and I bit my bottom lip before turning away.

"Gauri -"

"Leave me alone, please." I said quickly, brushing him away and gasped when he appeared in front of me, causing me to take a step back.

I saw the hurt flash in his eyes before he furrowed his eyebrows in confusion and I quickly laughed it off but Shivaay's expression remained serious.

"Gauri , whatʼs wrong?" his voice was soft and gentle, causing my heart to skip a beat.

Iʼve almost forgotten how kind and nice Shivaay was to me.

He could never hurt me like that, could he?

"Shivaay, do you want to talk to me about anything? Anything from your past?" I asked, scratching the back of my hair as he gave me a long look before shaking his head slowly.

"Why? Do you want to talk about anything?" he asked with a short laugh and I shook my head.

"I need to get some fresh air." I said, quickly walking past him and started making my way to the terrace.

After stepping out to the terrace, I let out a long sigh and jumped up in surprise when Shivaay appeared right next to me.

"You scared me!" he chuckled softly before jogging towards a bunch of speakers and I frowned at his behavior in confusion.

"Choose a song." Shivaay motioned me to come closer and I hesitated, feeling really uncomfortable that we are up here alone.

There is still a chance that he was the one who was giving information to Veer.

The traitor amongst us.

"Hurry." He jogged back to me and I flinched a little before smiling weakly.

"Why?"

"I want one dance with you before tonight is over." He flashed me a grin and I couldnʼt help but race at his words.

"Thatʼs- I donʼt know. We should go back inside."

"Alright, Iʼll choose a song then." He brushed me off and I watched him jog back to the speaker before going through his phone.

Reluctantly, I walked up to him and stiffened when he turned to face me, his eyes peering right into mine.

"I donʼt think we should be here-"

"Please, one dance?" he held out his hand and my heart sank when the song started. I smiled a little and took his hand, making our way to the open area.

"You look so beautiful Gauri ."

"Don't lie , I didnʼt even brush my hair tonight nor dress up-"

"Gauri , thatʼs really not the point." He laughed and I couldnʼt help but laugh as well before we took our positions, slow dancing.

I wonʼt lie to you,
I know heʼs just not right for you.

The song started and I stiffened a little when he pulled my back closer to his body, making my heart race faster than ever.

"I am a horrible dancer, Shivaay."

"That, I canʼt deny." His words dripped in
sarcasm and I stopped to frown up at him before chuckling softly.

"Asshole." I hissed at him, making a face but the smile on my face didnʼt fade away.

"Does it have to be Omkara ?"

my eyes widened and I went silent as he fixated our gaze, making my mind go completely blank.

What?

"Wh-what?" I barely whispered out and my heart stopped when he closed his face to mine, our nose almost touching each otherʼs.

"I asked you if it really has to be Omkara ?" he whispered back and I stumbled back but Shivaay managed to hold my waist, pulling me back up immediately.

I'll stop time for you,
The second you say you'd like me to.
I just wanna give you the loving that you're missing,
Baby, just to wake up with you.

"I really like this song." I quickly changed the subject, laughing nervously.

"Yeah, I chose this for you." I flinched and I looked up, not being able to ignore his sincerity anymore.

"Dance." He looked away this time, grabbing my waist and continuing the dance.

Not being able to face him, I rested my head on his chest, my heart pounding loudly against my chest as I tried to come up with right words.

"This song is for me?" I stopped to

'Cause I know I can treat you better than he can And any girl like you deserves a gentleman
Tell me why are we wasting time
On all your wasted crying
When you should be with me instead
I know I can treat you better
Better than he can

I donʼt know why, but listening to the song saddened me and guilt took over within seconds.

"Shivaay..." I started but he pulled away before spinning me around and pulling me back into his arms.

"You donʼt have to say anything, I just want you to know." He smiled and I went silent, not knowing what to say anymore.

"I am really sorry," I stated softly, my heart aching at my own words and I heard him let out a sigh.

"I really am-"

"If you put on that face, Iʼll really want to kiss you," I almost choked on the air I was breathing and I looked at him, my eyes the size of saucers by now.

"Did you-"

"I am just kidding." He chuckled and I scoffed in disbelief before playfully hitting his hand.

I was about to pull away but gasped when I lost balance, stumbling back in the process.

"Careful-" Shivaay reached out to grab me as I fell and the next thing I knew, his body was on top of mine and I could feel my cheeks heating up in embarrassment as he started to get up.

"Sorry, I-" He froze halfway upon hearing the door opening with a hard slam and both Shivaay and I looked to our right to notice Omkara walking in.

His eyes searched the place briefly before they landed on us and within seconds, they grew a shade darker, his jawline clenching before he bolted up to us.

"Omkara , what are you doing here-" I gasped when he grabbed my hand, jerking me up as Shivaay swiftly got up as well.

Before I could even explain the situation, punched Shivaay on the jaw and I gasped in horror, covering my mouth as I backed away.

Shivaay stumbled back before standing up straight and I looked at Omkara , who was still glaring at him, his hands balled into a fist in anger.

"I warned you to back the fuck off!" Omkara growled, grabbing him by the collar, jerking him closer and I was about to push Omkara away from him when Shivaay looked at me, the corner of his lips slightly busted already.

"Sorry." He said looking at me before brushing Omkara's hands away roughly and walking towards the door.

"Shivaay , wait-" I moved past Omkara but stopped when he grabbed my wrist.

Shivaay left and I turned to look at Omkara as he turned to face me as well, the grip he had on my wrist tightening up as he glared at me, biting the inside of his cheeks in anger.

"What are you doing?" he asked in a dangerously low tone and I gave him a sharp look before sighing.

"I am not doing anything, you are the one whoʼs jumping into conclusions without considering the situation-"

"Situation?" he raised a brow, the corner of lips slightly curling upwards before his eyes grew a shade darker again.

"When I got here, he was on top of you, what the fuck is the situation?!" he yelled and I jumped a little at his outburst, my eyes widening.

"Did I interrupt your romantic date?"

"Wha-what?" I asked in disbelief.
How could he think so low of me?

"I asked you if I was interrupting something back there?" he asked, his piercing gaze not leaving mine for even a second.

"I donʼt want to explain." I said sharply, my eyes now glimmering in tears but I held them back.

"Are you telling me, to think whatever I want?"

"I am telling you to grow up and to stop using violence as a means to justify your jealousy!" I raised my voice and I watched his jawline clench before he went silent.

"It really frustrates me and I canʼt stand to see you hurt someone I care about." I started leaving when he grabbed my hand again, this time with less force.

"If I work on that," he said in a low tone and I turned to look at him.
"Can you promise to stay away from him?"

"Omkara! For god sake ! Heʼs your brother-"

"All the more reason why I can't stand it, Gauri!" He spat and hissed at the same time but I held my ground as well.

"I canʼt just ignore him. More importantly, before you ask me to take care of anything, why donʼt you sort out your own feelings first?" I yanked my hand away and he opened his mouth to defend himself when someone appeared in front of us, causing me to gasp then let out a sigh in annoyance.

"Varun is refusing to talk-" he stopped as soon as he saw me and I narrowed my eyes at Rithesh in confusion before looking at Omkara , who was now glaring at Rithesh in annoyance.

"Varun ? As in the Varun from the Rathore brothers or-" I paused to look at Rithesh , who flinched a little before shaking his head quickly.

An obvious lie.

"Is he here?" I questioned Omkara , who was still staring at Rithesh before meeting my gaze.

"Did-did you by any chance, held him as a hostage?" I asked in disbelief, my mouth slightly opening in surprise before Omkara broke our gaze.

"He's only getting what he deserves."

******

"So let me get this straight, you want to break off things with Omkara ? Someone youʼre not exactly in a relationship even but-"

"Bhavya , you know what I mean," I cut her off impatiently.

"Heʼs not mine, yes, but I want to make sure that he knows that. That I donʼt want him."

"Why? I mean, okay, I get why, he is an asshole but why the sudden change of heart? You were trying to win his heart at some point, remember?

The whole, "I managed to get the heartless, cruel devil to fall in love with me" seemed to be going really well for you." Bhavya's words dripped in sarcasm and I simply ignored them, my thoughts fully intact by now.

"Iʼve given it a lot of thought, Bhavya , and I donʼt think I can keep doing this. Him treating me like shit at some point was one thing I brushed off but now heʼs keeping hostages and doing god knows what to him-"

"But thatʼs what vampires do, Gauri , what were you expecting? Itʼs been like that since the beginning of history..." she trailed off with a sigh.

"I expected more from him Bhavya ...heʼs changed a lot, and as much as I wanted to ignore that and continue to see him as the devilish maniac he once was, I canʼt. And I know I am stupid and naive to think that each and every person has good in them and-" I stopped to roll my eyes when Bhavya gagged at my words.

"You see the good in everybody, even when itʼs not there, Gauri . And thatʼs your problem. Plus, after everything Omkara did to you, you donʼt deserve to even spare him a glance." Bhavya muttered bitterly and I let out a final sigh in defeat.

I know that what sheʼs saying is true but, whatʼs so bad about seeing the good in someone? Or trying to change someone for the better?

"So tell me a way to convince him? Should I just tell him?" I brushed my hair as Bhavya adjusted herself on my bed.

"But itʼs kind of weird. Rumors have already been spreading around that Omkara has changed and that heʼs been so "nice" towards the humans lately. That heʼs not allowing his brothers to force themselves on anyone for blood unless they are willing to offer on their own."Bhavya pinched the bridge of her nose in confusion and suspicion.

"But still, itʼs not good enough."

"Yeah, but Iʼm just saying, if we are considering both sides then I canʼt deny the fact that heʼs changed too, for the better and for a vampire to actually have the heart to-"

"I said," I inhaled deeply.

"Thatʼs not good enough for me, Bhavya ." I shook my head and Bhavya slowly nodded.

"Hey, I got to go, my momʼs calling." She suddenly jumped up as her phone started ringing and I let out a groan in disappointment.

"Wait, so tell me what to do?"

"I donʼt know, just ignore him or something until he loses feelings, weʼll talk later." She waved at me before leaving.

With a sigh, I laid down back on the bed and stared up at the ceiling, my mine filling up with so many thoughts at once.

Okay, so maybe he did change a bit for the good, but like I said, itʼs not good enough for me anymore. I canʼt keep trying to change him and constantly reminding him that his attitude needs to change already.

One minute, he is caring and a little nice and the next minute, he goes all out. Plus, him keeping Varun locked up and trying to hide it from me was the worst mistake he did.

Sure, he released him right after I practically begged him the whole of that night, but that really doesnʼt change anything, does it?

Because heʼll do it again and again if he has to. And thatʼs not right.

Moreover, for some reason, I donʼt want to keep moving back and forth with him.

Itʼs tiring and exhausting and I honestly canʼt take it anymore.

"Alright." I finally decided, not wanting to contemplate any more thoughts. Iʼll just ignore him.

That was the best way for me to make him see that I wasnʼt interested.

It will hurt but I'll do it.

*****

For the next week or so, I kept my word, completely ignoring Omkara and brushing away any of his kind gestures and compliments.

Obviously, he was taken aback but I think that at some point, his pride took over when he decided to act like he didnʼt care and I was more than relieved when it happened.

Okay, I lied a little.

I wasnʼt exactly happy about it but I wasnʼt that sad about it either. Maybe this was for the best.

The fact that I had anything to do with someone like him, really gets to me sometimes.

I mean, how naive and stupid was I to let him in when he treated me like that? How was I able to keep forgiving him and forgetting everything he did?

He literally fed on me against my will, pushed me around and was extremely rude with me, not to mention, Ishana and everything that went down with her too.

How could I just let them go and act like none of that happened?

On top of all that, how could I grow feelings for him? Was it because he was being so nice to me all of a sudden?

Acting all caring and protective? Did that really move my heart to the point that I forgot all the terrible things heʼs done?

"Oh, just stop," I groaned and smiled a little, looking out of the window. Fat drops of rain was now splattering on the window and I let out a sigh, closing my eyes briefly.

You did the right thing. Why were you even trying to change him?

I jumped when someone busted my door open, revealing a drunken Ajay and Parth bolting into the room. Music blasted into the room and I groaned, waving my hands at them to get lost.

"Oh come on," Parth slurred, slumping an arm around me childishly and I watched Ajay bust up some moves, holding out his hands as I shook my head.

"Join us, itʼs boring here."

"Nice try Parth, but neither of you are ever getting a chance to hook up with me because-" I stopped when Parth stepped back, letting out a dramatic fake gasp
and clutching his chest tightly before looking at Ajay, who looked as "shocked" as he was.

"Gauri, I am simply trying to help you have fun, not get in your pants," Parth poked his chest before trailing his finger into forming a small cross on it.

"Cross my heart, I see you nothing more as a little sister now." He pointed at me and then Ajay. "Him, I canʼt say."

"Mhm, yeah." Ajay rolled his eyes and I contemplated a little to their suggestion.

"Alright, but let me get changed into something cute and-"

"We suggested that you can join us to have a little fun, not prepare yourself to sleep with random assholes." Ajay grumbled and Parth let out a sigh, completely agreeing to him even though he was wasted.

I scoffed and was about to snap at them when a bunch of girls stormed into my room. The next thing I knew, both Ajay and Parth were making out intensely, almost making me gag in disgust.

"Can you please do this somewhere else?" I crossed my arms across my chest, then let out a huff when they both ignored me.

"Never mind." I said through gritted teeth, walking out of the room, only to get bumped against some random girls, who scowled at me in annoyance before walking away.

Okay, I take it back, I am never going to join another party again. Not only was this annoying but it was beyond disgusting to watch a bunch of strangers make out with each other almost every night.

"Shivaay, hey!" I called, rushing towards him as he stopped talking to some random people.

"How long until the party is over?"

"Are you kidding? We just started, Gauri." He chuckled and I crossed my hands over my chest, placing my weight on my right leg.

"Yeah, but I hate it when itʼs like this here. It feels strange and I donʼt like strangers in here." I said impatiently and I watched him run a hand through his hair before letting out a sigh.

"I know, okay? But we donʼt really have a choice. Itʼs always been our thing."

"Thing? You guys have a "thing"?" I asked, sarcasm dripping in my words and he simply laughed a short laugh before shaking his head.

"Plus, itʼs not my call to make, these kind of parties helps us keep our reputation."

"A good one or bad one?"

"Alright, whatʼs bothering you, Gauri ," he broke into a grin and I sighed, looking away, only to notice Omkara sitting on one of the sofaʼs, sipping a drink out of his whatever he was having and talking to Ishana.

"Youʼre obviously upset." I snapped my head towards Shivaay and ignored the ping in my heart, trying to focus back to reality.

"Upset? Why would I be upset? I just think itʼs annoying to have these parties, not to mention how dangerous it could be for me since Veer-"

"You really think we would just let anyone in?" his words somehow sent chills down my spine.

There was no need for someone to get in, because someone was already working for Veer. But who? Who could it possibly be? Abhay? Parth? Arjun? Rudra, Ajay , Jai or Rithesh ? I eyed around the people, hugging myself a little.

Am I being watched right now even?

"Gauri , I have to go, Iʼll see you in a bit okay." Shivaay waved me off and I wanted to call out to him but I was so frozen in place, I didnʼt even know what to do.

My eyes swiftly roamed around the room and I stopped when I noticed Omkara staring directly at me, causing my breath to hitch.

I noticed a bunch of girls huddling around him as he stood up and jealousy kicked in instantly, making me bite my lip angrily before I turned away.

It doesnʼt matter who he fucks around with, it shouldnʼt matter anymore.

I rushed towards the table of drinks and grabbed a glass of punch, sitting down on one of the stools. I drank just a sip before my drink was snatched away from someone, making me spin around.

"Hey!" I didnʼt mean to squeal and my eyes froze on Omkara , who casually gulped down my drink before making a face.

"Taste like shit."

"Yeah, youʼd know better." I didnʼt mean to blabber out and turned away as Omkara sat down next to me.

I reached to grab another drink and was about to gulp it down when Omkara snatched it away from me again, causing my hair to whip to a side as I sent him a deadly glare.

"Thanks." He gulped it down again and I scoffed in disbelief before turning away.

"Can you stop following me around, Omkara Singh Oberoi ?" I asked in a dangerous tone and frowned at him as he took a glass of wine, his gaze focusing on whatever was in front of him.

"Last I checked, this is where I live."

"Right, then excuse me." I started to get up when Ishana appeared in front of us, making me gasp then let out a sigh.

"Hey, whatʼs up?" she plastered on a fake smile and I held back the urge to roll my eyes.

"I was leaving. Can you please tell Omkara that I would like it if this party was over soon." I gave Ishana my best smile and I didnʼt have to look at Omkara to know that his attention was now all on me.

"Okay?" Ishana glanced at Omkara and then me at me before going silent.

"And why is that?" Omkara asked in a low tone, obviously trying to conceal the frustration and annoyance in his voice but it was too obvious for him to hide now.

"Tell Omkara that I find it very annoying and disgusting. Itʼs not everyoneʼs hobby to make out with random strangers every night." I said, still staring at Ishana as she scoffed in disbelief.

"Gauri says that-"

"Ignoring me is not going to help." He cut off Ishana and I could see the annoyance flickering in eyes as she frowned at my act.

"Tell Omkara that-" I gasped when someone suddenly grabbed my waist, lifting them up and placing me down on the table.

My eyes froze on Omkara , who swiftly placed his hands on either side on my waist on the table, closing in on my face as I leaned back.

"Tell Omkara what, Gauri Kumari Sharma ?" he cocked an eyebrow, his eyes penetrating into mine, sending electric jolts down my spine as I gulped silently, glancing at Ishana , who was now giving me the crazy look.

To hell with Ishana, all the girls in the room were now glancing and sending me glares now, making me cower in embarrassment.

"No-nothing-"

"Oh, you can talk?" He tilted his head to a side with the most fake shocked expression and I gave him a flat look, trying to ignore my pounding heart.

"Get off, youʼre embarrassing me." He narrowed his eyes at me and I watched him back away before slipping his hands inside his pockets.

"What The hell is wrong with you?!" Ishana suddenly snapped at me and I looked at her in disbelief.

I opened my mouth to say something when Omkara sent her a warning look, causing her to bite her bottom lip angrily.

I shook my head in annoyance and bolted my way outside, pushing past the people roughly. I entered my room with a huff, slamming it shut behind me.

Luckily, Ajay and Parth were no longer around and I decided to wash my face, the anger boiling inside of me slowly starting to raise up.

Okay, first things first, Ishana is a bitch.

Secondly, I have to find out whoʼs working for Veer or whether he was telling the truth in the first place.

I mean, I could be wrong about this.

He might have been lying to me, god know, but one thingʼs for sure. I have to tell someone about it, sooner or later.

I canʼt do this alone.

I needed help. Maybe I can invite Bhavya again. I splashed more water on my face and stared at myself in the mirror, my mind going completely blank for the next few seconds before I shook my head.

I grabbed the towel and stepped out of the toilet, wiping my face but stopped halfway when I noticed Omkara leaning against my window sill, causing me to frown in displeasure.

"Care enough to talk?"

I simply scoffed at his suggestion and marched towards the door, grabbing the doorknob and stopped when I realized it was locked.

"Seriously Omkara ?" I folded my hands across my chest.

"Something wrong?" he decided to play stupid.

"Give me the keys."

"Keys?"

"Omkara ." I said in a dangerous low tone and I watched his eyes widen slightly, as if he suddenly remembered what I was talking about.

"Ah, these," he held out his index finger, the key dangling in his fingers now and I held back the urge to roll my eyes.

"Here." He held it out and without any questions, I bolted up to him, keeping on my expressionless mask.

As soon as I reached to grab it, Omkara spun around and hurled the key outside the window, causing my jaws dropped open in shock before I ran towards the window.

"What the hell is wrong with you?!" I gripped the window sill before glaring at him.

"Now do you care enough to talk?" he slipped his hands back inside his pockets and leaned against the nearest wall, giving me a flat look.

"No."

"Shame, weʼre stuck here then."

"And whose fault is that?"

"I donʼt know, you tell me?" his ignorant words pricked my nerves and I inhaled deeply, trying to calm myself down.

"Alright then, talk." I said, folding my hands across my chest angrily.

"Why?"

"Why what? Be a little more specific." I decided to played dumb and watched a muscle in his jawline flicker before he turned away.

"Why are you acting this way all of a sudden?"

"Because I want to."

"Why?"

"Because Iʼm tired of you." I blurted out harshly and his eyes immediately turned to fixate on mine, a familiar emotion flashing inside them before he put on his expressionless mask on again.

"Right, so one day you just wake up and decide that youʼre tired of me?"

"Maybe I finally really did wake up and see things the way they are."

"Whatʼs that supposed to mean?"

"Means that I got bored of you Omkara ," I saw the same familiar emotion flash in his eyes again.

"Get over it." I added, ignoring the aching pain in my heart as I broke off our gaze.

"Get over it? Are you fucking kidding me right now, Gauri?" he raised his voice and I simply leaned against the window sill, not bothering to look at him.

"Grow up, Omkara . Not everyoneʼs head over heels for you."

"Why? Why did you get fed up so easily?" he ignored my words.

"Why does that matter Omkara ? Plus, weʼve been ignoring each other for a week now and itʼs been easy for the both of us to-"

"Easy for you, Gauri ."

"Youʼre right, it is easier for me this way," I looked at him straight in the eyes and I saw void of emotions mixing up inside them before I landed my gaze back on the ground.

"Now get lost, I am not going to say anything more."

"Iʼm not done talking," He said in a dangerous low tone and I ignored him, my eyes remaining glued to the ground.

"Gauri ." He called and I heard him take a step forward but I didnʼt bother to move nor say anything.

"Talk"

"About what?" I asked innocently, my eyes briefly meeting his as he walked up to me, painfully slow, might I add.

"Why did you get fed up?"

"What do you mean?"

"Gauri ," he warned in a low tone. "Itʼs a simple question, tell me why."

"Why what?"

"Dammit Gauri !" I gasped softly when he slammed both his hands either side of my waist on the window sill.

"Stop doing that, it hurts!" My eyes widened at his words and I looked up to meet his intense gaze, his eyes filled with plead and frustration.

"Fine, you really want to know why I got so fed up?" I let out a sigh, narrowing my eyes at him.

"Because you were an asshole to me, and I canʼt forgive you for that."

"Iʼm trying to make it up for you, I can make it up for you if you just-"

"No. Itʼs not only me Omkara . Itʼs how you treat people in general. Acting like a dick when it pleases you and pushing everyone around when you feel like it. I donʼt like it. I hate it. I hate it that you see humans as mere blood bags and I hate it that you go as far as to keep someone as a hostage to get what you want," Despite my trembling knees, I straightened my posture.

"And donʼt even get me started on Ishana, your ex-girlfriend who came from the dead." I gave him frown and watched him give me a long look before speaking.

"I already let Varun go because you begged me to, I am trying to change how things are between the vampires and humans and about Ishana-"

"Either way, Iʼm donʼt believe that you can change for the better." He went silent at my words and I bit tongue to stop my tears to welling.

"You mean, you refuse to believe it."

"Stop already Omkara -"

"No, I am not." He said firmly, leaning closer and I held my breath, not daring to meet his eyes, just in case I ended up kissing him.

"Fine then, you have it your way and Iʼll have it my way."

"Whatʼs that supposed to mean?"

"Whatʼs what supposed to mean?" I decided to go back to my initial plan and play dumb, knowing that it will tick of Omkara more than anything.

"Donʼt start-"

"Donʼt start what?"

"Stop that, Gauri -"

"Stop what?" I blinked innocently and watched his jawline clench in frustration.

"Youʼre really starting to get on my nerves, Gauri ."

"How come?"

"Iʼm fucking serious-"

"Serious about wha-" I froze when I found his lips connected to mine, causing electric jolts to run down my spine.

He pulled away almost instantly and I almost let out a disappointed gasp as our lips parted but managed to hold back.

"Stop that, really," His eyes fixated on mine and I turned away, my face heating up in embarrassment.

"If I change for the better, then can you at least stop ignoring me?" I stopped to look at him in surprise.

"I really canʼt stand it when you do this."

"Then donʼt."

"Gauri , please," his hot minty breath hit against my lips and I held back all my emotions and thoughts to stop myself from just kissing him already.

"Why canʼt you just-"

"Because itʼs just not good enough for me anymore," I stood my ground, finally meeting his eyes and I noticed a hint of hope and plead flash in his eyes before I said the words that sent all those emotions disappear within seconds.

"Youʼre not good enough for me anymore, Omkara ."

*****

"You promised to help me look for evidence." I hissed at Bhavya who was clearly trying to bail out on me now.

"But, what if they notice us lurking around? And how are you so sure that one of the brothers is the traitor? It could be Ishana or one of the butlers even!" I ignored her and slowly tip toed myself downstairs with Bhavya following me behind.

"Bhavya !" I hissed when her heels clicked on the stairs loudly.

"Itʼs not like they canʼt hear us anyways!" she shot back with a huff and I rolled my eyes.

"They are too distracted inside alright. Itʼs feeding time so-"

"But why must we chose tonight of all nights to snoop around? I have to go in 15 minutes, you should have told me yesterday when-"

"Yesterday, something came up," I mumbled the last part softly, flashbacks of last night flooding my mind before I shook them away.

"Anyways, move it." I sent her a look and Bhavya finally gave in before nodding.

We sneaked all the way downstairs and I could hear girls giggling from inside the dining room as we walked past it, heading towards the study rooms.

"Weʼll start here." I opened the door to a random study room and Bhavya nodded before we started going through the room a bit, checking the small drawers and under the table.

After searching three rooms, we started heading upstairs to the boys room, starting with Jai's.

"This is hopeless, what are we even trying to find?" Bhavya groaned as we closed the door behind us.

"Anything that seems suspicious. Maybe a bracelet or knife or something, anything, Iʼm not sure yet." I sighed, heading towards Shivaay's room.

I opened the room and my jaws dropped when I saw Ishana's arms wrapped around him in a comforting manner.

The worst part is, Shivaay was now hugging her too, his face buried under her neck.

With a soft gulp, Bhavya and I both turned around, quickly closing the door behind us, not even bothering to check whether they heard us or not.

What were they doing anyways? And why werenʼt they downstairs?

"Wait," I stopped to think and let out a groan.

"Thatʼs right, Shivaay  doesnʼt feed from humans." I mumbled to myself as we scurried through the hallway.

"That was just, weird. I was certain he was into you."Bhavya hissed at me and I shook my head in confusion as well.

"So did I," I looked at her, trying to catch up to her fast pace.

"But maybe they developed some feelings later after I rejected-" Bhavya and I both gasped when we noticed the boys climbing back upstairs, along with the girls as well.

We both spun around, ready to leave when someone cleared their throat, making both Bhavya and I to cringe a little before we spun around to face the guys.

"What are you guys doing, roaming around at this time?" Arjun  questioned, raising a brow at us in suspicion and Bhavya and I both exchanged glances before nodding.

We were best friends. Of course we knew the excuse both of us were thinking in our heads right now.

"We were hungry." "We were bored."

Both Bhavya and I said together and I gave her the crazy look, only to get one in return from her as well.

"Hungry, bored, hungry, bored?" Abhay sang in a mocking tune, pulling the random pretty girl he had his arms around with even closer.

She let out a giggle and I cleared my throat when everyone turned all serious, their eyes narrowing down at us.

"Oh my god, donʼt do that. We were just bored, give us a break." Bhavya almost whined, clearly intimidated by the sudden change in the atmosphere.

"When these two get together, itʼs never good." Parth pointed at us both and everyone agreed, some of the guys leaving back to their rooms before Bhavya and I scoffed at their wild accusation.

"Assholes." Bhavya muttered under her breath and hissed in annoyance when Rudra reached to grab her cheeks, giving them a small squeeze.

"Youʼre cute." He grinned, giving her wink and I know it took everything in her to remain calm and composed.

Her face had heated up in embarrassment and as much as she was trying to hide it, I know how much that little flirtatious act made her heart go wild. I donʼt blame her.

None of these vampires were bad looking, not even one. Starting from their face and all the way down to their toes, they were perfect. Too perfect, which is probably the only reason why they were able to hook up with so many human girls and get away with it.

Girls wanted it, they wanted them. They craved to be wanted by them. Some of them would flip just to be noticed by them. Thatʼs how desperate humans were when it comes to vampires.

"Hey, I have to go now," Bhavya shook my shoulders, bringing me back to reality and I nodded.

"Iʼll see you tomorrow."

"Iʼll drop by tonight, babe, leave the door open for me, yeah?" Rudra called after her, obviously finding it amusing to tease her.

"Over my dead body, dick." She shot back, jogging her way along the hallway and I noticed her ears turning crimson red from all the way here.

"Donʼt do anything stupid, Gauri ." Rithesh pointed a finger at me and I gave him an innocent look as they left back to their rooms.

Well, so much for playing detective.

*****

A knock on the door made me jump up in surprise but before I could give the permission to come in, the door flew open and in came Ishana , her eyes freezing on mine as she stopped in front of my bed.

"There is a party tonight, Shivaay wanted me to let you know since you hated them," she folded her hands across her chest, raising a brow at me.

"Said you can lock the door and stay in here if you donʼt want to join." She gave me a look and my jawlines clenched. She reeked of superiority and I hated it.

"Isnʼt it late? There was a party last night too so why-"

"I didnʼt come here to chat with you, Gauri ," she cut me off rudely, giving me a flat look.

"As fun as that may sound." She barely grumbled under her breath and I almost scoffed at her childish attitude.

It was so obvious that she was still mad and jealous about what happened last night.

"Iʼll talk to Omkara then." I purposely emphasized and I watched her jawline clench in anger as I started walking towards the door.

Without warning, she suddenly disappeared out of my sight and I rolled my eyes, knowing exactly where she went.

To who she went to.

I climbed downstairs and noticed the guys already setting up the place, ready for another one of their "rad" parties.

My heart froze for a few seconds when I noticed Ishana already talking to Omkara , her eyes narrowing at me as she spoke. If only I had super powers and eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Omkara ," I called, biting down my anger as I marched up to him.

"Can you please call of the party tonight? Itʼs frikken 12 am and-"

"I canʼt." he said shortly with a flat look but I noticed a void of emotions filling up inside his icy blue eyes as he stared down at me.

"But I hate it..." I trailed off when Ishana huffed in annoyance, causing me to shoot her a glare.

"Whatʼs it to you anyways? Youʼre more than welcome to invite drunk couples at your place, who would end up having sex on your bed but Iʼm not exactly up for-"

"Alright, stop." Omkara cut me off, letting out a long sigh, running a hand along his neck as both Ishana and I glared at each other in hatred, not even bothering to pretend anymore.

She hated me and I hated her guts too.

Fair fucking enough.

"I really have to go somewhere so solve it between you two and-"

"As fun as that may sound," I imitated Ishana's tone and watched her jaws drop in disbelief.

"I donʼt want to. So take me with you." I turned to look at Omkara , who shook his head impatiently.

"Youʼre staying here, itʼs already pouring heavily outside and-"

"I am going." I gave him a hard look and Omkara opened his mouth to supposedly snap but shut it right back.

Instead, he pinched the bridge of his nose before letting out a sigh in defeat.

"Fine. Just this once." He avoided Ishana's piercing gaze, walking past us and I gave her a look before following behind him.

As soon as Omkara opened the door, I hugged myself, a cold breeze blasting towards us. It was already pouring heavily and I looked at Omkara , who was already staring at me before his eyes swiftly turned away.

"Wait," he took of his leather jacket and I opened my mouth to protest when he hovered it over my head.

"Unless you want to stay back, do as I say." He muttered and I didnʼt bother to argue. We both hurried towards Omkara's car and by the time we had got inside, I was freezing to death.

"Where are we going?" I asked, putting on my seatbelt as Omkara started the car.

Big drops of rain bombarded on the windshield as we took off and I let out a sigh, realizing that he was not going to answer my question.

"Omkara ? At least tell me where we are going-"

"I offered to tag you along, not talk." He gripped the wheel, his eyes on the road and I bit my bottom lip before going silent.

The rest of the ride was silent and after a while, I squinted my eyes through the window, my eyes widening when I saw the trees surrounding the area we were passing by now.

"Where are we?" I questioned and gasped when lightening arched across the sky, lighting up the empty street.

It didnʼt take seconds before thunder roared around us, making my breath hitch in fear.

"Donʼt you think we should go back?" I asked, panic striking my body as I sat up straight.

"Itʼs already so late and if you keep driving that fast, we might even get into an accident.

Weʼre practically out on nowhere and-"

"Thatʼs why I told you to stay behind, Gauri ." He interrupted my rambling with a huff and I pressed my lips together into a thin line.

"Weʼre just going to stop by at an old motel here, I need to talk to someone there." He said finally and I slowly nodded, my eyes narrowing at the road.

"What the fuck," I snapped my head towards Omkara as he suddenly turned the wheel, the car slowing down before it came to a abrupt stop on the sideways.

"Shit." Omkara hissed when the headlights turned off, darkness surrounding us instantly.

"What do you mean, what happened?" I asked, trying to sound calm.

"This Piece of shit is out of gas, for fuckʼs sake, how the hell-" he stopped hissing before letting out a sigh in frustration.

"What do we do? Donʼt tell me we are stuck here! This is exactly why I told you to go back, you should have listened to me!"

"No, this is exactly why I told you to stay behind, Gauri , but your stubborn ass refused to listen, remember?" he raised his voice and I let out a huff in frustration, another flash of lightening arching across the sky, followed by the sound of thunder roaring down on us.

"Wha-what should we do?" I didnʼt mean to stutter and Omkara turned to look at me, his icy blue eyes glowing even in the darkness.

"Iʼll see if I can get gas from the lodge . Thatʼs the only nearby place I know and if-"

"Omkara Why canʼt you just carry me with your "super-speed" and take us home?" I cut him off and Omkara let out a sigh in annoyance.

"Because, my princess," he spat out, his face slightly closing in on mine. "Itʼll take at least 10 minutes or more before we get there and by then, you and I both will be soaked wet, which would most probably result in my princess's ass getting sick." He says "my princess" like itʼs the most disgusting word that ever left his mouth and I rolled my eyes, running out of comebacks, mostly because I was panicking a bit now.

"Fine, then let me come with you."

"No, Iʼll only take a few minutes. Stay in here." He said impatiently and before I could even protest, he opened the door, stepping out and disappearing out of my sight.

I inhaled deeply and leaned back against the seat, my heart pounding loudly against my chest.

I should have just stayed behind.

I closed my eyes for a few seconds, trying to ease my nerves and when I opened them, they froze on a figure that was now heading towards the car from a distance.

My body stiffened and I squinted my eyes through the window, trying to make sense of the figure but it was almost impossible to with the hard rain splattering down on the windshield.

All I could see was a figure walking towards the car, closing up on it and a sudden image of Veer flashed through my mind, causing my breath to hitch.

My throat tightened and my eyes wandered around the area, the trees and the empty road. Am I back there? The road where Veer appeared in front of the car and-

My thoughts came to an abrupt stop and I hugged myself, staring at the unfamiliar man before shaking my head, forcefully ripping my eyes away from him before crouching down on my seat, trying to calm myself down.

My whole body was trembling now and I closed my eyes shut for only a second but they flew open the moment someone knocked on the window, making me scream in fear.

"Hello, maʼam, are you okay?" an unfamiliar male voice called, opening the door as I crouched further away from the seat, not even wanting to face him, just in case it turned out to be Veer.

"Omkara ..." I barely choked out, clutching my chest tightly, the lump in my throat tightening at the memory of Veer dragging me outside the car.

"Are you okay? Do you need help-"

"Donʼt touch her." Omkara's voice cut off the male and I froze, my mind going completely blank.

"I-I wasnʼt trying to, I was only going to help..." their voices seemed so distant and I just stayed glued to my spot, my mind completely filling up with the memories of Veer and what happened that night.

How I was trying so hard to start up the car, to get away from him.

"Sorry, I took so long," I heard Omkara's faint voice, followed by the closing of the door. I adjusted back in my seat, my mind going completely blank for a few seconds again.

Another image of Veer's sadistic smirk played around my mind and I closed my eyes shut, leaning back against my chair as I shook my head repeatedly.

He canʼt take me away, not again.

"Gauri -"

"I have to go," I blurted out, opening the door without even thinking.

"I have to-"

"Are you insane?! Donʼt even try to-" he stopped when I practically threw myself out of the car, picking up my pace.

I could hear Omkara hiss out a bunch of colorful words and I started slow jogging, hugging my body tightly as my eyes roamed around the area again.

My pulse started racing when I noticed the empty road and darkness surrounding the area completely.

No! He-heʼs not here, heʼs not here, he canʼt be here-

A Hands grabbed my shoulder and I stared screaming, throwing my hands everywhere and struggling to break free.

"Stop, let me go! Let go!" I screamed my lung outs, not even holding back and broke down into sobs when my knees gave away.

"Shh, Gauri ..hey, itʼs me," Omkara's soothing voice finally reached to my ears and I drooped into his arms, tears running down my cheeks.

"Youʼre okay." He whispered, tightening the grip around my shoulders as I buried my face inside his chest helplessly.

It was just him.

It was only Omkara .

"Sorry," my voice was barely audible under the heavy rain and I bit my tongue to stop my teeth from chattering any further.

Heavy wind blasted on our body and I gripped Omkara's shirt when another roar of thunder bellowed down on us.

"We have to go," he suddenly pulled away, picking me up in his arms effortlessly.

"Close your eyes." He pressed my face against his chest and I did as I was told, hiding my face from the pouring rain.

My mind became dizzy for the next few minutes but my eyes remained shut.

"Weʼre here." I opened my eyes slightly as Omkara placed me down and my eyes widened around the unfamiliar place.

"Ah, so she is the girl." A man in his mid 30ʼs walked up to us but before I could even say anything, Omkara gave him a quick nod and smiled a little.

"Thanks for letting us stay here for the night." Omkara followed the man to the reception table and I followed behind them, my eyes widening when I came to realize where we really were.

"Weʼre sleeping here?! In this lodge?!" I almost barked and both Omkara and the man turned to look at me in surprise.

"Why, do you not like it here?"

"Sheʼs got no choice." Omkara turned to look at me, his eyes growing a shade darker and I shot him a frown.

"Hereʼs the key, Iʼm sure you donʼt need me to accompany you." The man smiled, handing a key to Omkara and before I could say anything more, Omkara grabbed my hand, dragging me along the hallway.

We passed by some rooms before Omkara came to a sudden halt, his eyes roaming on the door for a few seconds before using the key to open it.

The door opened to reveal a small cramped up, ugly old room with only one bed and a cupboard standing at the very corner.

The place reeked of alcohol and I made a face in disgust, my eyes roaming around the old dull painting on the walls.

"After you." Omkara stepped aside to make space for me.

"Oh hell to the no." I turned to escape when a hand grabbed my upper arm, turning me around.

"We canʼt go out now anyways, Gauri ."

"You canʼt just bring me out here and ask me to share a disgusting old room with you-"

"Oh, for fuckʼs sake, stop complaining, Gauri , youʼve got no choice." And with that, Omkara gave me a slight push on the back, sending me stumbling forward before he walked in behind me, closing the door shut.

"I am not okay with this, you can just carry me and run all the way back to the mansion, Iʼm sure-"

"Youʼll get sick if youʼre out there for too long," he poked my forehead sharply, sending me stumbling back with a hiss.

"Your sensitive ass canʼt even handle this weather."

"Then Iʼm sure you can just heal me with your special blood." I folded my hands across my chest.

"Youʼre right," his lips slightly twitched into a wry smile.

"That way, Iʼll have an excuse to make out with you-"

"Alright, never mind." I cut him off, quickly turning away and bolting towards the toilet.

I could hear Omkara chuckling behind me as I closed the door shut, my whole face burning in embarrassment.

My face scrunched up in disgust when I noticed the dirty tiles and clogged drain.

I could literally throw up in here. How is this an old lodge? Or a lodge at all, for that matter?

"I canʼt take it, itʼs disgusting in here!" I stepped out of the toilet and froze when I noticed Omkara already shirtless, revealing his abs and toned muscles.

Blushing, I turned away, screaming at myself for even sparing his body a glance.

"Itʼs only for tonight, Iʼm not exactly thrilled about it either." He grumbled and it amazes me how he canʼt see how much him being shirtless affected me.

"Right, then whoʼs sleeping on the floor-"

"You, obviously." He raised a brow and I scoffed, shaking my head.

"Iʼm not even going to argue with you." I made a face and Omkara grinned for the first time in a long time, causing butterflies to dance in my stomach.

"Here." He suddenly threw a towel at me and I started drying my hair and clothes, touching my forehead slightly.

"Great." I sighed, realizing that I was already burning up but Iʼm guessing if I get some sleep, Iʼd be fine.

"Come here." Omkara gently started patting the empty spot next to him on the bed and I shook my head immediately.

"Youʼre not sleeping on the damn floor, Gauri ." He warned in a dangerous tone and we both stared at each other for a long while before I finally gave into his soul piercing gaze.

"Only because I am tired." I stated bitterly before climbing on the bed next to him.

Omkara reached out to switch off the light and I stared at the small window ahead of me, my back facing Omkara.

Silence clouded the atmosphere, except for the sound of heavy rain and faint thunder, causing me to hug myself a little.

It was like he wasnʼt even there, but that was probably for the best-

"Gauri ," Omkara voice was hoarse and my breath hitched before I closed my eyes shut.

"Cut the act and turn around, Gauri , I wanna ask you something." He said impatiently and I let out a sigh before turning to face him, his blue eyes flickering even in the dark.

"Yes?"

"What happened back there?" his question made me feel scared and uncomfortable for some reason.

I didnʼt want to think Veer.

"What do you mea-"

"Donʼt." he shot me a glare and I quickly averted my gaze.

"I was just afraid and paranoid..." I slightly glanced at Omkara , who was now narrowing his eyes at me in confusion.

"The last time I ran away from Veer, I was driving and then he just appeared out of nowhere and the car broke do-down an-and I-"

"Alright, hey, I get it," Omkara wrapped an arm around my shoulders, pulling me closer to him.

"Relax." He breathed, running a hand through my hair as I breathed in his familiar cologne.

"I was afraid..." I barely choked out, burying my face in his chest, fighting back my tears.

I didnʼt want to have a break down about that incident, I never thought I would in the first place either.

"You donʼt have to be anymore," Omkara pulled me even closer.

"Not when I am around." His words made my heart skip a beat and I grew silent before pulling myself away.

This is bad. I can't get swayed so easily again.

"On second thought, Iʼll just sleep on the floor." I sat up, ready to get up when Omkara grabbed my wrist.

"How come?"

"I already told you that I donʼt want you, Omkara ."

"But I want you Gauri , i want you."

"Well you canʼt have both," I gave him a frown as he raised a brow in confusion.

"Ishana, I am talking about her. Must be it's fun for you," I wanted to stop. I shouldnʼt be saying all this to him right now.

"Having to take your time to pick one of us. But thatʼs where you were wrong, Iʼm not a second choice and I-"

"I chose you." His words caused my eyes to widen and I stiffened when he inched closer, his hand already reaching out to wrap around my neck.

"Donʼt..." I choked out weakly, trying my best to ignore his eyes that firmly sat on my lips now.

His lips slightly brushed against mine and at this point, it took everything in me to just hold back from pulling him into a kiss.

"Omkara Don't..." I chocked  out weakly, trying my best to ignore his eyes that firmly sat on my lips now.

His lips slightly brushed against mine and at this point, it took everything in me to just hold back from pulling him into a kiss.

"Ill always choose you Gauri , over anyone ." He breathed one last time before connecting his lips to mine, sending sparks of electric down my spine.

I kissed him back hungrily, my hands already wrapping around his neck as the kiss deepened .

A hand made its way under my dress and I held back a moan when his warm fingers roamed around the back of my skin, causing goosebumps to rise all over my body.

Omkara parted his lips and started leaving trails of wet and hot kisses down my neck, his teeth nibbling on my soft spot, causing an uncontrollable moan to escape through my lips.

I lost control and fell on the bed along with Omkara , his body towering over mine now.

He stopped to look down at me, his eyes filling with lust and another familiar emotion I wasn't able to put my finger on to.

His lips drew closer to my cheeks and started trailing down my jawline before resting on my neck, causing me to quiver in pleasure.

"Omkara ..." I breathed, parting his lips from my neck and he leaned into another kiss, making me lose it completely.

He licked my bottom lip and I let him in on demand, our tongue fighting for dominance but Omkara easily won, allowing him to explore my mouth thoroughly.

"Wait," he suddenly pulled away, his breath coming out as short gasp.

"You're burning up." He said softly and I shook my head, wrapping my arms tightly around his neck, urging him to kiss me again but he didn't budge at all.

"I'm fine, Omkara , I'll be fine tomorrow, I promise, just kiss me." I almost begged and Omkara stopped to stare at me in surprise before a wry smile played on his lips.

"Beg a little harder, Gauri ."

"You're so-" I choked, my face heating up when I noticed the amusement on his face.

"No." I started to get up when Omkara closed his face to mine, letting out a chuckle.

"I'm just kidding," he pecked my cheeks and I could feel him grin against my skin as he did.

"But seriously though, you're burning up." His voice turned all serious before he sat up and I almost screamed at my hormones to chill the fuck out.

God, how was he able to take it? I was going crazy back there, ready to just take it all the way and this guy is just-

"Here." He suddenly sunk his teeth into his wrist and I winced when he pulled away, blood trailing down his wrist.

I made a face and slowly took his hand, licking off the blood.

I didn't want to complain.

Plus, Omkara would have never let me go to sleep like this anyways.

I felt the muscles on his arm tense up as I licked some more, my eyes opening and closing in disgust every now and then.

I finally pulled away and almost gagged in disgust.

"Last time I'm  doing that, I swear. Let's sleep-"I stopped when Omkara took a hold of my chin with his fingers before closing in on my face, his tongue brushing against the corner of my lips.

"Yes ,Let's, before I do something to you I'll regret." He pulled away, his thumb caressing my cheeks now.

My eyes widened a little before I quickly turned away, trying to even my heartbeats.

Silently, I got back inside the sheets and Omkara settled in as well.

A hand tangled around my waist shortly as Omkara pressed his chest on my back, some kind of heat already radiating off his body and onto mine.

"Omkara ?"

"Hmm?"

"I want to talk, I don't think I can sleep so easily."

"Well, try."

"Why?" I started to turn a little when Omkara squeezed my body, holding me in place.

"Because i dont want to talk." His blunt rude words pricked my nerves.

"And why not?" I questioned and heard him let out a sigh, his breath hitting against my neck now, making me shiver.

"Because," he breathed, his lips brushing against my ears.

"If I keep hearing your voice, I'll really lose it  Gauri ,tonight. Makes me want to continue where we just left off but this time, I won't stop,even if you begged me to so I suggest you to shut your mouth." I squirmed as he whispered in my ears, my whole face burning up.

"Al-alright then. Forget I said-"

"You're still talking."

"Well, what else do you expect me to-"

"Last warning, Gauri ." His voice was getting hoarse and I shut my mouth immediately.

His chest vibrated against my back as he let out a soft chuckle and a small smile tugged on my lips.

"Goodnight, Gauri." He buried his face under my neck and held my hand before interlocking our fingers securely.

God, how I wish I could freeze time right about now.

This was perfect. This, this is perfect.

This is what I wanted.

I wanted him.

I wanted him so bad but....