Warning: Mature Content: This chapter has references to abuse and other mature thematic issues only appropriate for ages 18 years and older.

References to abuse are NOT in terms of Shivika's relationship, but what Shivaay and Anika independently went through years ago as children and young adults. No detailed description is given and guidelines for Wattpad are followed.

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Hi everyone :). I want to begin by thanking God and apologizing to all of you amazing readers who found attachment to this book. I am so sorry for not updating this book for month because I personally was not feeling well. The last update had gotten bashed where personal attacks were made on me. It hurt me because I put in so much work into my content and to hear someone personally attack me for using a curse word or showing mature content that follows Wattpad guidelines did upset me. I do not want to speak of this matter any longer, but wanted to let you know why I had disappeared on this book and did not update it for long. I actually was not going to update, but I felt that all of you hd become attached to this book and I did not want to let you all down due my personal matter, so I am back with this book. I am so so so sorry for the delay once again and if you like this chapter then please do let me know, so I will update and post more chapters :).

Please excuse grammar and sentence structure errors, I am still editing, but decided to post since I promised to update today :).

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Drawing heat down my spine, he let his rough fingers gently tumble down the soft dips of my bare back. A small chill ran down my spine that arched inwards finding his coursed lust unbearable.

Biting my quivering lip, I lowered my gaze and blushed red. My hands clasped around my bare waist where bumbling heartbeats continued to erupt due to sheer admiration he laid upon every flaw that decorated my naked skin. His fingers zig zagged lazily down my navel. My breaths deepened and increased their succulent pace no longer able to tolerate the tease.

Suddenly, he wrapped his hand wrapped around my hip and pulled me against his chest. His mouth attacked my neck with brisk, wet kiss before letting his tongue suck the flap of soft skin on my neck. A moan escaped from my lips with a desire to have more. My heartbeats quickened upon the feel of his sharp teeth that sunk into my neck, before they retrieved, to leave a blunt, burning kiss upon the mark.

"You are an addiction that I...want...a hit of...every moment," He hissed as he drove his trembling lips slowly up my earlobe and took it fully into his mouth.

A heave escaped from me as I ran my hand over his which slipped under my skirt. His fingers trailed itself up my inner thigh and entwined into the knots of my white, laced panties. A tremor erupted within the folds of my virgin skin. His palm rolled itself down against the laced fabric as I gasped in pleasure feeling milk swivel down my quivering, wet fold.

"Shivaay...I asked for help...to zip up my blouse...not romance...W-we have to get going now...um...please we cannot now," My voice barely came to the surface. Warmth leaped on to my cheeks and I began to shake under his dangerous touch. His palm rubbed the rims of my thigh vigorously aware that this small act was enough to turn me on.

"You do not like what I bought for you?" His hand continued to run down my thigh under the high rise slit of my red chiffon skirt, which draped the floor.

He let out a chuckle against my ear as our eyes met each other in the fogged mirror of the bathroom. Both of us breathless, sweaty, and flushed red with lust. The lust we both carried was becoming a being of its own now. It tortured us if we did not listen and indulge in it for even a second...so every moment we let our lust reign us and continue to turn us into animals.

"N-no...I-I l-like it...I mean...I like the outfit you gifted. Um...uh...we should get going right?"

My breaths began to become heavy, barely keeping me afloat, as I felt his fingers trek their way down to my innocent confined secrets.

The ragged skin of his hand glided down my deep cleavage making my heart skip a beat. His senseless touch enough to run a rampage of narcotic, yet, thrilling desires making me imagine the many ways he can unknot me and make me his.

His hand dipped underneath the red sheer fabric of my top and took a light grasp of my breast. My rose buds plunged out wanting him to suck their dewy taste. A moan escaped from me with my trembling hand running down his that began to gently caress my breast setting off a spark within my heart.

"If you want to leave then fine baby...as you wish. From now on only your command will be followed except in the bedroom." He plunged his hand down to my trembling navel and squeezed it. I gasped and took a hold of the bathroom counter finding myself weaken. He let out a wicked laugh amused by how he could easily reign me. Grabbing my waist, he turned me around into his arms.

"At least give me a kiss now before we leave..." He pouted and gave me puppy dog eyes trying best to mask his cheapdeness.

I giggled and wrapped my hands around his neck pulling him closer towards me. He began to lean down my lips ready to snatch a kiss. Tracing my fingers up to his mouth, I rubbed them gently inciting a groan from him. I barely closed the gap and brushed my lips lightly against his jawline to tease.

"I think you got plenty of kisses from me an hour ago baby. Was that not enough? No more for now..." I whispered to him holding seduction in the subtle caress of my fingers against his lips. He opened his mouth immediately and took a hold of them. My eyes closed shut feeling his lips suck on my fingers, giving them a bite, before smoldering them with his taste. He doing his best to remind me of what I had done an hour ago to him...my first.

His hand lifted my chin up to force my eyes open and see his thirst. "No. That was not enough. I want more...It was the best so far. You are a fast learner or maybe you just have a very experienced teacher," He spoke in a husky voice making butterflies flutter within me.

I began to blush furiously and pushed him away gently not wanting to discuss the tryst where I was the one to pleasure him. His bittersweet taste still lingering in my mouth enough to keep me alive for a few hours before I would want him more.

"Stop being a cheapda! Please go now! I have to get ready and you are making me late!" I scolded him as I struggled with my jewelry box to find the right pair of earrings. Shivaay chuckled and wrapped his arms around my waist to lay a tender kiss on my cheek.

"Cheapda? Hm...I like this new name for me. Fuck it's a good turn on...now say it in Hindi and Punjabi then I will go!" He nuzzled his nose into my neck making it tickle. I giggled upon feeling his lips teasingly dribble up from my shoulders to the nape of my neck.

"My Hindi is bad nah? I can understand Hindi and all, but horrible in speaking. I can only speak Punjabi..." I mumbled to him in a baby voice feeling ashamed of my lack of proper language skills. He laughed into my neck and pinched my cheek to adore me.

"You are too cute Anika seriously. Now say it in both in Hindi and Punjabi then I will go! Don't you want to get ready?" He continuing to nag and leave kisses on my cheek to further annoy me. I sighed in anger and slammed my jewelry box on the bathroom counter.

"Aap please jaayi yaahan se cheapde kahin ke!" I yelled into his face before grabbing my box and hitting him with it. He howled in pain and grabbed his shoulder rubbing it somewhat surprised by my reaction.

"Fuck you are looking too hot right now when angry. Now say it in Punjabi..." He smirked challenging the inner Punjabi kudi in me wanting to see that fiery, feisty shade of mine that I had not revealed yet.

I gave him a wicked look with my anger ready to blow up in any moment. I faked a giggle and took a step closer with my heel ready to give a good beating. He continued to smirk until he felt the sudden blow of my heel against his knee. He shrieked in a high pitched voice almost falling on the ground before grabbing the door to balance.

"Ullu da pata! Jaa ittoan! Saara time mera waste karda rehnda apne cheapde pan na! Koi sharam kar! Tussi meitu hoon kutt kao gayein! Tussi jao! Cheapde ja kitte da! Panga nahin lenda jehda mere naal samajaya!" I raved and raged as I screamed my curses at him in pure, shudh Punjabi to give him a good glimpse of the dangerous kudi I can be if triggered.

His jaw dropped wide appearing to never have imagined I carry this fire within me. I stood proudly with my head held high up as I let out a giggle and raised my eyebrows up and down at him to show off. He made a stern expression appearing ired. I gulped nervously and immediately simmered down feeling ashamed how I had scolded him.

"That was fucking sexy. Oh hell I want more of this from you! Damn I love this real shade of yours'! Anika baby I love it!" He declared in excitement making me shocked. He broke into immediate laughter and grabbed my cheeks to lace me with hasty, affectionate kisses. His lips drabbled from the corner of my cheeks to my temple. I gave him an embarrassed smile as he pulled me into a tight embrace.

"I love this side of yours' Anika. It's the real and honest one that is bold and fierce. Now tonight for the dance competition you better be this Anika. I want everyone to envy you...be jealous...I want you to show them that they can never break you. Now quickly get ready since we have to go soon...because I want to be done with the dance competition fast, so we could return to our bedroom..." He flirted the last thought while giving me a dose of confidence.

My smile widened as I pulled him into a tighter hug admiring his will to make me his equal and empower me with courage to fight. This is what I love about him. He accepts me for who I am. He gives me the confidence I need. He supports me and stands by my side. What more can I ask for? All my life, no one has ever made me feel good in my own skin until he entered. Now I cannot even think of a day without him because he is the only one who makes me feel so wanted.

"Thank you for always accepting me for who I am Shivaay. Men like you are rare let alone humans. No matter how you try to portray yourself to be in front of the world...you are a good man with a great heart..." I held back my tears that arose from feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of affection he was giving me.

His eyes softened revealing the tender soul he carried which he buried in his rough, blunt mannerisms. It appeared as if he was struggling to respond to my compliment like he never got one. He gave me a faint smile and pressed his lips against my temple. Rubbing my back, he tried to lighten up my mood.

"Hey now stop getting emotional Anika. You deserve to be yourself. Do not ever thank me. It is your right to be who you want to be. Now you get ready and I will be waiting outside with Chaaya."

I smiled at his humbleness finding myself becoming more attracted to him. Slowly I am liking every piece of him...from his kindness, to his care, to his compassion. I am finding myself falling for him.

Shivaay kept his smile and walked away closing the door behind. I blushed and turned towards the mirror noticing a glow on my cheeks not seen before. Running my hand against my lips and down to my neck, I reminisced his touch knowing the effects of this glow are due to Shivaay.

When did I become lucky to get a man like him? I had given up all hope I would find someone again in my life, but fate had other plans. Shivaay is perfect. He fills my flaws. He accepts me for who I am. He stands by my side and protects me. He never judges me, but encourages me to express my opinion. He respects me and motivates me to fight for myself. Most of all, he wants to build a life with me. I cannot thank fate enough for bringing him into my life...and now I want him forever.

I must do something to make him feel special. He does so much for me and yet I never had done anything for him. Yes, tomorrow I will make him feel special in my own way. Definitely, I will plan something romantic for him. Tomorrow it will only be him and I...and, of course, Chaaya.

Shivaay's Point of View

"Meh! Meh!" Chaaya wailed loudly as she reached out her hands towards the bathroom door. She held small tears in her eyes and continued to cry wanting Anika. I sighed and laid against the bed before picking her up and placing her against my chest. She struggled in my arms not finding the comfort she does with Anika.

"Chaaya it's okay. Anika is right here huh? She is going nowhere sweetheart. She is only getting ready...Watch she will be right here for you." I attempted to console her, but she whimpered and shook her head wanting Anika right this instant. She buried her face into my chest as I bounced her trying to entertain until Anika can arrive and calm her down.

I smiled slightly feeling proud how I have made the right choice. Chaaya has become so attached to Anika in a few days which proves I was always right my Anika would be a great mother. The way Anika cares, nurtures, and gives Chaaya love, even sacrificing her time with me, shows how she genuinely wants to be her mother. Seeing such, I am determined to give her this right of being a mother.

Beyond just giving her a right to be a mother, I will give Anika every right she deserves. Enough of her being treated ill by that damned family of hers. She does not deserve to live in that rotten life of poverty which has encaged her for years. She deserves better and I will give her that. I will give her the money, the luxurious lifestyle, and bring her to the peak of fame and a career. I just want her to follow my rules on that contract...where I will get what I want and she will get what she wants.

A long time ago, I learned that marriage is an illusion and a cheap concept created by society. Marriage is a shackling of two human beings to a relationship that they are forced to pursue even when they lose interest. It is baseless and has no value. Marriage only hurts two people and creates chaos. My parents' marriage is proof of the evil it is, seen in my mother's betrayal and my father's heartbreak. After witnessing their fallout, I promised myself I will never marry.

But that does not mean I will not hunt for a partner who will build a life with me. I always have had an image of a woman who I would bring into my home and my own life. A woman who will bring peace and love in return of me lavishing her with a good lifestyle. A woman who will be selfless and giving in a relationship. A woman who will build a home and a family with me. Anika is that woman.

Anika is a victim of poverty and a poor childhood. She was never loved, but only deprived of it. Her family never treated her well nor her own peers leaving her into a state of emptiness and loneliness. When one is empty and lonely, they begin to weave fantasies and desires that will make them feel powerful and loved. And that is where I enter the picture.

She is attracted to me because of my money that I know...that is the first thing that lured her towards me. She craves my power and finds herself consumed with the thought of how it would feel when I would dominate her family who once treated her ill. She desire to be a mother which is now getting fulfilled in form of my daughter. She has a hunger for danger and a need to be fulfilled which I provide. Now in return of what I will give to her, she will give me her loyalty and build my home. She herself will sign that contract with her complete will. Only Shivaay Singh Oberoi's will holds command and no one else's. In fact, I always get what I want even if it will take me years just like it did in finding Anika. I remember that fateful day when I met her and became completely hers...the day I decided that she will be my mate and be the one who will run my home...the one with whom I will build a new life with.

Flashback: Five Years Ago

https://youtu.be/7QXJlD90jDY

I kept still as I sat on the bar stool. My eyes drifted into darkness as I remembered my father whose birthday was tonight, but he was no longer here to celebrate it. A shallow, empty hole drilled itself into my heart right where I held love for my father. Tears ran down my cheeks as I remembered our moments to realize he was the only one I had and him being gone has now fully left me alone. Here I sit in my loneliness with no one to comfort me...no one to listen to me...no one to love me.

Taking another sip of whiskey, I hounded it down my throat wanting it to burn my wounds and keep them alive, so they can remind me of the vengeance I want to take upon those who harmed my father and led to his death.

A loud noise struck and crashed my thoughts to pull me out of my trance. I looked back only to have my heart fall. My body went still as my eyes dived on to the emerging beauty never seen before...a beauty that is described to be only in Paradise for only a few lucky ones to see just like me.

Layers of red draped the wooden floor upon which she laid flat. Her knees rose up through the slit of her chiffon red dress as she crossed them seductively. Everyone began to surround her finding themselves allured by the sheer sexiness she displayed in a bold manner. She traced her hands up her narrow waist and to her curved breasts in a teasing manner. A couple people shamelessly whistled at her making her giggle since she appeared to like the attention.

"Yeah me sexy baby!" Her melodious voice charming me. I formed a small smile feeling amused by her silly antic. She continued to run her hands all over my curves without any shame.She appeared confident and proud of her skin which was a rarity. Sliding a pair of black sunglasses down her nose, she revealed her blood shot eyes to everyone which rolled in quick circles before she once age laid flat on the floor.

Other men eyed her, ready to help her, but I slammed my foot down and took the first initiative. Grabbing the glass of whiskey, I swung it immediately and downed it to ignite my strength in pursuing this mysterious woman.

My feet quickened their speed to her as I reached my hands towards her and grabbed a hold of her robust yet delicate shoulders. The touch of her body against my hands setting off a current within me. She flipped her waves against my lips to reveal her breathtaking, inconceivable features not seen in any other woman. Her brown marbled eyes choked my heart since they carried a subtle, gracious innocence which was an anomaly in today's times.

A soft smile touched her swollen red lips that were begging for love. She tilted her head childishly looking at me with confusion.

"Omg are you Mr.Beast?! Am I finally Princess Belle and in my favorite fairytale Beauty and the Beast?! Oh my God! You know you look exactly like Prince Charming and wow if we had a daughter, I am sure she would say the same thing handsome! Want to sleep with me and give me a baby?!" Her tranquil, sweet voice seeming an odd mix with her absurd statement that came out of nowhere. I felt a little taken aback having expected sensibility from her, but instead seeing her ride the crazy train and spill out a series of incoherent, slurring statements.

Laughter erupted from afar amongst a group of young college students who sat in a booth. They appeared entertained by how this woman was behaving with me. I looked back at her who now batted her eyelashes innocently. Rolling my eyes, I grabbed her shoulders and helped her on her feet as she giggled and winked back at the group of students who were clearly her friends.

"See I told ya he would give me attention! If my ex-boyfriend Ayaan does not give me attention, it does not mean any other hot guy will not look at me! I mean look at this guy...gorgeous blue eyes, robust and muscular to a point of likely having abs, and he appears rich! See I told you! Yolo! Nobody got anything on this Cali girl bitches! All bitches wanna be like me, but they got nothing on me! Only I the queen can attract guys!" She yelled back at her friends in a childish tone. She twerked her back slightly and raised her hands up in the air popping her sunglasses on and dancing while her friends hooted in her support.

Damn it. We have an age gap. She is young, definitely legal age, still...I mean. Damn it. No she is old and an adult and so am I. There is nothing wrong in this. Absolutely not.

She continued to giggle throwing her head back to reveal her long neck right where I can intoxicate her with my touch. Her curved breasts plunged from the deep neckline to reveal the spot where she likely got pleasure. I have never met such a sexy, confident woman in my life...Never. I have met many, but something about her is just intriguing. She is so unusual, odd...and that is what makes her hot.

"So you were trying to play with me huh?" She immediately turned back looking at me slightly scared thinking she was about to get a scolding. I pretended to furrow my eyebrows and be upset, even though I was not. In fact, I was quite turned on by how she tried to fool me. A woman with a brain and wit is a turn on...and if you mix these two traits with a dab of innocence...absolute bliss. I have either been with girlfriends who were plain dumb and then others who were scathing. She looks like a good twist of both.

"Look I am sorry sir, but I was short on cash to buy another pint of beers, so my friends said they will pay it off for me if I pretend to fall and grab your attention. You were sitting miserably alone on that bar stool for an hour not looking at anyone including a woman who fell down just like twenty minutes ago or so. So I had a bet that I will grab your attention because after all I am quite the hot stuff here!" She declared with pride holding her head up high enough to make me salivate at the confidence she displayed. I could tell she was a shy person, but the alcohol definitely was doing a number on her.

"Well hot stuff I shall say I can only let you off the hook if you drink a round of beer with me or else I can be very bad if someone tries to fool me," I uttered at her trying to darken my features and appear that dangerous, demonic guy, which makes every girl fall for me, despite knowing I am trouble.

She raised her eyebrow appearing impressed by my move. Forming a small smile, she lifted her hand out and grabbed mine. Her hand was soft and gentle which I can tell would do wonders in bed. I tightened my grasp to lavish her mollifying touch that appeared to be calm and soothing, but enticing.

"Well hot stuff is a nice name, but my name is Anika. Anika Malhotra...age eighteen, a current undergraduate at the local university, and a recent ex-girlfriend of Ayaan who broke me! I am sad, angry, and I want a man to make me forget about him...a real man. But you know what?...Call me Ms. Belle Hots...you know like that princess who is just hotter now? And I will call you Mr. Dirty Beast..." She smacked her red lips loudly as she spoke in a seductive tone appearing to flirt with me.

Fuck. That is hot. She is hot. Where the hell have I been lost? Damn I never had a woman flirt with me like that since usually it is the opposite. How did she learn to speak like that? If she can speak like that...think about the things she can do.

"LOL! That was such a cliche tag line and introduction right?! Hahaha...sometimes I say the dumbest shit ever!" She shrieked childishly and bobbed her head up and down like a child.

I felt my mouth go dry as I let my eyes roam all over her elegant features that gave her the glow of royalty. Despite being boozed up and having a broken heart, she carried herself far well than anyone else. She is hot...scratch that beautiful. Stunning. She can kill anyone with her looks which will even slay a demon.

"So are we getting drinks or not? Because honestly I have a pretty good fake ID, so I mean I can get drinks on my own..." She slurred and snatched her hand away from my grasp giving me a smirk.

Seemingly, she liked my presence as she leaned closer and pressed her arm against mine only to grab it and press her hips against mine. Her lips brushed against my neck to ignite goosebumps. A small blush touched me as she nuzzled her nose against my shoulder.

It has been almost a year since I have been with any woman because of what happened...So much has happened in my life. It's been quite a while and it feels odd to be touched by a woman again.

"Hey queen what are you still doing there?! Come back now!" One of her friends called out to her only for her to roll her eyes in annoyance.

"Bitch can you not see that I am having fun right now?! You told me to come to the bar and pick up a guy which is what I am doing! Now shut the fuck up and stop ruining my night! I finally picked up a guy who likely has more cash, is high class, and fucking hot and sexy more than that asshole Ayaan! So let me enjoy! Go do whatever shit you all want to do! I got a man and I want to have fun!" She snapped back her dirty mouth like it was worth gold. The way her slurred voice carries the ability to make even the dirtiest words sound chaste is shocking. No one can say such a short, soft and sweet voiced woman can speak in a blatant, spiced manner.

She let out another laugh and twirled towards the bartender ready to give him an order.Immediately turning on my feet, I ran up towards her knowing she is wrong in ordering alcohol considering she is not twenty-one. I grabbed her hand to stop her, but she began to blabber her mouth off in direction of the bartender.

"Hey you! Give me two tequila shots and a round of that some good crafted beer you have! Understood?! Here's my ID!" She chimed throwing the fake plastic card to the drowsy bartender who looked at it and shrugged not finding any wrong in it. My mouth dropped open in shock as he proceeded to make the tequila shots and slide it our way.

"You should not be doing this!" I whispered against her ear not wanting her to get in trouble with the bartender since she can potentially be arrested for breaking the law. Her smirk widened upon hearing my warning appearing to be not one bit scared. In fact, she hummed a tune and grabbed my hand only to push me back on to the bar stool.

My body hitting the stool hard while I looked up at her feeling slightly frustrated she was not heeding to my words. She bit her lip and let her eyes fall down likely checking me out in full view to see what she liked and would prey on tonight.

"Baby only this country does not allow you to drink until 21! I mean if you hop the border into Canada you can get free drinks at 18 and even Europe! Only we are fucked up! We can get a gun license at 18, but not drink! Yeah right!"

"This is wrong...You can get in trouble. I absolutely condemn this and really you should not be hurting yourself like this. Your friends obviously are up to no good, so don't follow them. Have your own mind and make the right decision!" I held a calm voice, but enough with affirmation wanting to give her a reality check she needed at the moment. I don't know why, but I feel this need to protect her for no reason at all. She just does not seem corrupted by society and deserves to be free from it.

Her hand lingered against the tiny shot glass before she picked up and opened her mouth taking a great swing of it. A fire lit up in her eyes as she let her tequila wet lips form a lustful smile while she shook her head back and forth in the air. She let her hair fly in an attempt to feel the gist of freedom.

Suddenly, she took a step forward and brushed her legs against my knees only for her fingers to take a firm squeeze of my thighs. I felt a firm pulse throb within my manhood which aroused from the piercing stab of her nail making me curious about how she would treat me in bed.

She crossed a seductive smile now leaning down towards me with her hair falling over my face. My body reached a halt finding it become enslaved to her tempting touch. The heat of her mouth ran down my skin making me shiver. My hands lowly trailed over her waist which slightly flinched as she closed her eyes shut finding arousal by my slightest touch.

"Hmmm...you know I really hate when people tell me what to do, but hearing you order me feels different. It feels like you actually care about me about what others will think of my stupidity. It feels genuine. My parents order me because they don't want me to ruin their image by living my life. It never feels like they actually are concerned about me...unlike you. Have you always been this genuine or is it just a mask you are wearing to convince me to get laid by you tonight?" Anika questioned revealing the remnants of vulnerability she carried within herself, but attempted to play if off through her childish antics, that act as her escape, even though, they might just be a cry for help.

I cleared my throat lightly which wanted to choke on itself. Her legs pressed against mine once again as she trailed her soft hands up my neck. She captured me by her touch and shackled me by her mysterious eyes. She was blatantly seducing me seeing me as an object of victory...one that will make her feel powerful since I have more worth and value than her ex who tore her apart. She is innocent...naïve...untouched by cruel realities. She does not even know what she is doing in this moment, but craves to be wanted...She has been deprived of love...and she is on the hunt for it even in strangers like me.

My hands pressed themselves firmly into her waist enough to make her moan in pleasure from the irritation of her sweet spot. She pushed herself closer almost wanting to take a seat on my lap, but I kept the distance knowing we were moving too fast.

"Looks like all your life you only have met people with many masks on...ones who have lied and battered your heart even when you have given yourself completely to them. You do everything to be accepted...feel wanted...loved, but you never get it. You hunt for love, but never find it. If I was wearing a mask, I would be the one buying you drinks and not stopping you from drowning yourself in poison. If I wanted to use you, I would be taking you home right now, but I am not because I respect you and I know you are hurting. So yes I am being genuine if genuine is defined as having humanity..." My voice rasped with my own tears. I felt I had not only described her plight, but mine as well. Despite her and I likely being different as night and day, it is possible we both may be suffering from the same pain.

I read people well, but she appears to be like an open book to me. I feel like I have known her way before our first encounter tonight. Even though, I never have met her before, I feel this familiarity like I have known her for many past lives...that there is a story beyond the one that is beginning right now. God...what am I thinking? This is likely the alcohol inside of me that is playing charades with me and putting me in a maze of idiotic thoughts.

We kept still losing into each other in the moment. Our bodies close with hers' pressing against mine lightly. She leaned in slowly with her eyes lowered on my lips, that held the smoky taste of whiskey combined with the salt of my tears, as a result of mourning my father's memory all night. I wanted to push her away, afraid that if I allow her to come close, she will see my ugly wounds, but it felt like the aches I have suffered since my birth, not once balmed, were silenced by her presence. It is like I have been waiting for her to come for a lifetime...Is this what love at first sight is?.....But then am I even capable of giving love to someone? No I am not.

"A round of beers for the nightingale couple. Good look hooking up tonight, I knew you both would find each other," The bartender's rough, loud voice crashed our moment as we looked at the elderly man slightly confused by his statement. He smirked and slid the tray of beers to us to set up the ambience. I felt my cheeks form a slight blush somewhere mildly embarrassed that others were keeping an eye on the both of us.

Anika rolled her eyes at him and grabbed cash out from the pocket of her dress for him to take. He chuckled knowing he had caught her nerve by teasing her. Her hand philandered towards one of the glasses before I grabbed it to pull her away. She groaned in reluctance and looked back at me pouting in desperation.

"Just let me drink! You too are drinking this poison, so why not me? I want to drown in this and forget everything that happened ever. So let me please...please Mr. Dirty Beast?" She snapped off the nickname enough to make me let out a laugh amused by her childishness. She let out a giggle and rested her body against mine before taking a seat on the barstool next to me.

Her hand wrapped around my arm as she leaned in and snuggled into my chest like she had known me forever. It felt odd. Incredibly odd since she is a stranger and we have just met, but her fitting into my body felt unusually... perfect.

"By the way my name is Shivaay, so you can call me that. Dirty Beast sounds like I am a pervert or something." I looked down at her seeing her lift up her cute little eyes that were a deep shade of red. She let out an immediate giggle seeing my uncomfortable expression that was risen from not liking the nickname she had given.

Her fingers grabbed my cheek to pull on my beard. I winced from the pain while she laughed and pinched it in adoration. I slightly smiled liking her laugh that hit the perfect chimes and tempos.

"Awww...your name is soooo cute! Shivaay and me Anika...perfect match right?! Ayaan and Anika sounds so ewww and yucky! But Shivaay and Anika sounds puuurfect. Baby it sounds perfect. You know what? Tonight is perfect! Gosh you are so hot. Like are you real or is it just me? Believe me I had this image of this hot and sexy guy in my mind for a loooong time and you check all the boxes even better actually..." She flirted cliches at me, without shame, leaving me speechless and unable to even think of a reply. Instead, I blushed furiously under her guise, something I never have done in a woman's presence. This is not me. A woman never has had the ability to crawl under my skin like she has and it is shocking she has ability to do such.

I chuckled awkwardly while she immediately took the glass of beer ready to take a swing of it before I grabbed her wrist. She pouted and shook her head only to snatch her wrist out of my hand and down the beer into her.

"No baby no! Let me drink! Let me feel free tonight! It has been so damn long since I have been able to breaaaathe! Let me get high! Wow now I know why people drink! This feels soooo good...like wow....this feels so good! I feel like I am living! Living! Living the high life! Living! Anika is alive!" She screamed in joy and began to pump her hands up and down in the air to the beat of the music that was coming on.

I laughed and wrapped my arm around her shoulder to help her balance while she began to thrust her head back and forth to the rhythm of the music. She giggled and grabbed my hand firmly in hers only to lift herself up from the barstool and slam her body down on the bar counter. She smirked and crossed her leg over the other to reveal her thin soft skin through the slit of her dress....unveiling those damned, drool worthy curves of those thighs...She will kill me tonight with her looks and that firey personality....What is this woman?

Suddenly she grabbed my hands and slammed them right against her hips. Sliding her way right in front of me she threw her hair back to reveal the curves and angles of her breasts which plunged out...wanting to give me a full view of their sweetness.

She is definitely seducing me. My hands slightly trembled as my pulse vigorously throbbed within my body right up to my bulging manhood, that definitely was peaking itself up after an eternity, considering it has been months since I have been with anyone. Heck, no woman ever has done this to me. None. Not so quick unlike her.

Tilting her head, she pressed her teeth against her lips and looked at me keenly. Her hands held over mine only to feel them tremble and detect my subtle nervousness. She seemed to relish my weakness...liking it despite the strength I showed in my features.

"You know what I want right now the most Mr. Dirty Beast? I want you to make me feel alive tonight. I want you to take me under your wing and give me the best night of my life. I want you to take me by my hand and kiss me like I never have been kissed before...make me feel like a woman...fuck me hard. I want that. Are you willing to give that? Do you have the courage to be a man?" Her voice dark and full of a livid need to seek pleasure from a stranger without any regrets or shame. She had a fire in her eyes that desired a passionate tryst of which she never got from the man who broke her. Tear lurked in her eyes which she veiled with a cunning, alluring smile upon her trembling lips.

A craving surged through every vein of my body and gave rise to my hunger to have her. I felt a sudden need to break my fast and finally return to my philandering ways. Scratch that...I felt a need to have her, not any woman, but only her. I want her all over me. I want to see every bit of her. Claim every piece of her just like she wants to do to me.

She pressed her red lips firmly together and swayed her hips against my palms before drifting her hands around my back to pull me in. My body froze surprised by the unexpected warmth the heat of her body offered against my cold one. Her perfume provoked lust as she closed the distance between us and parted her lips to take hold of my neck. I heaved unable to control my temptation. My trembling hands clasped around her narrow waist to pull her into an embrace and lose myself within it. She let out a small laugh against my skin liking how I instantly accepted her without any fear of seeing her naked wounds.

"I knew you wanted me the moment you saw me Shivaay. I knew you would turn and look at me. Let's have some fun and get out of here after that. What do you say?" She whispered the lucrative idea into my ear as she ran her fleshy, wet tongue against my earlobe.

I groaned in pleasure and tightened my grasp around her wanting to take her away right now, but knowing I should wait and acquaint myself with her. It feels wrong to just take her to my place.

I lifted my lips off from her shoulder and gazed back toward her charming smile. My heart began to race without a stop. Her hands wrapped themselves around my cheeks to caress them gently and convince me to agree to her idea. I held a drunk smile as I admired her enthralling features. I felt a need to surrender myself to her completely. She raised her eyebrow curiously failing to detect that my smile meant an acceptance of the idea.

"You know you are not a man of words. Do you even like to talk or are you one of those who are slightly loony and like to stay in their dark room. In pain and hurt. Isolated. Antisocial to point of no friends. However, I do know that guys like you always want to be in power. In command. A leader. Ones who like to have tons of sex, but are looking for the right one willing to do that. I bet you have had sex with almost every woman in college, at work, and likely this entire city! It's your mystery that attracts them which allows you to get what you want and they get what they want. They want nice hot guy who is rich, that they can claim they slept with, while you attempt to fulfill your loneliness by being with them. You know how I know you might be the antisocial type 2? Because I am type 2 baby!" She stuck her long tongue out throwing me a peace sign in an attempt to look cute, but surely the opposite. She looked like a bomb of hotness.

A laugh escaped from me feeling bewildered by how she was able to read me so quick in such accuracy. The way she broke down my barriers so quickly proved what a ball of fire she was. She giggled and slid the tray of beers towards me only to hand me a glass while she took the other one.

"I don't know you too well Anika besides the fact you are type 2 like me. I like the idea though of you and me getting out of here and doing something interesting... satisfying." I licked my lips wet to let her know that I was ready to have a taste of her tonight. However, before I could do such, I wanted to tease her like she fooled me moments ago to get my attention. It will be fun to test her patience regarding sex. It's best I know what kind of woman she will be in bed tonight before I decide to fuck her. Apologies for the blunt language, but one night stands never involve love, but only lust.

Her smirk widened as she appeared to catch my hint. "That is why I gave you the glass of beer. Let's play a game. We will guess each other's basic knowledge for fuuun and then the one who is wrong will have to take a swing of the beer. Come on! Stop making me bored now! Let's have fun hm?" She cooed with excitement and slammed her dangling feet loudly against the counter of the bar as if initiating a court hearing. The alcohol getting to me and wiping my senses away that getting more drunk was not a good idea, in fact, I found getting myself more drunk to be the best idea.

I smiled widely, enjoying her company. Long gone were my tears that had been my sole companion all night. Leaning forward on to the bar counter, I closed the distance between us as our eyes encaptured each other.

"Fine let's start from the basics. I think your zodiac sign is a Leo and what do you think mine is?" I questioned throwing her off guard. She looked at me confused finding herself at a loss. Tapping her finger gently against her chin, she began to think. Damn she looks so cute while doing that.

"Um...I think you are...a....Pisces maybe? But...how the hell do you know I am a Leo?!" She exclaimed in surprise as I gave her a wicked smile showing off my great skills considering I made that guess the moment I saw her tonight.

"Antisocial, quirky, overdramatic, tries to be confident, but is a complete softy in her heart. You are super weird in the sense of being so mature one moment and immature the next. You have crazy mood swings from being happy, to romantic, then a little crazy. Also, you are mighty pissed off tonight, but are hiding it with your laugh to not let anyone know you are hurt because you have too much pride. All these traits can only define a Leo! And no you are wrong...I am an Aires!" I declared with victory by slamming my fist loudly on to the counter. She whined loudly in misery not liking her loss. Groaning in frustration, she swung the glass of beer to take hit of the poison.

"Chug! Chug! Chug!" Her friends randomly rooted from afar. She began to down the entire glass of beer. Streams of alcohol swum out of her mouth down to the surface of her neck then the dips of her breasts. I pierced my fingers into my thighs to control a sudden urge of grabbing her by the neck and taking her into a passionate kiss while sucking that alcohol off of her skin only to booze her up with my taste.

She slammed the empty glass on the counter and raised her hands up and down in the air to show off her drinking skills. Her friends cheered her on as she shook her waves back and forth now appearing completely intoxicated. My heartbeats plunged as I felt captivated by the vision in front.

"Fuck! You are a freaking Aires! Damn it! I should have known! That haughty attitude, stubbornness, and need to control while being a complete puppy from the inside! The way you are all so dark and serious, yet, read me so fast! Yeah that is an Aires! Thank God you are not a Pisces...My ex is one and so are my ex friends...never got along with them which includes my mother as well! I mean, well, my father is a Pisces and I get along with him, so I guess sign does not determine personality! Hahaha!" She clampered a boorish, drunken laugh. I chuckled as she tipsied and slid closer to me placing her foot right over my thigh.

"Well my turn now! Sooo...I think you are not from California, but likely from the East Coast. Always wanting things to be fast paced which is why you talk so damn fast! What is up with you guys talking so fast?! You all make fun of us Californians talking sloooow, but hell we take our time! Anyways, you like the speed of things. Do the act like a quicky! I bet in bed you just go in and come out fast. You fail to enjoy life. You just want and want, but despite getting everything, you still crave for more because you cannot fill your emptiness..." Her voice drifted into a trance as her eyes drowned into mine like they were looking right into my soul.

My heart punched a hard beat. She had read me brilliantly in such a manner no one else ever had. How could she know so much about me despite me being just a stranger? A vulnerability caught hold of me as I attempted to keep my ground and not falter to her. No she cannot see my weakness. No one can.

"N-no. You are wrong. I am not empty. I am from the east coast, but definitely a man who is quite happy and content. Well, one thing you got right is I am quite fast paced in everything...anywhere...anytime." I leaned closer towards her to drown her in seduction and divert her attention from focusing on me. She will be like other girls I meet every night at the club. She will just be plain hookup and that is it. No strings attached.

She blushed and let out a giggle incited from my flirting. Her hands took a hold of my neck as she lowered her lips towards me to tempt me. I lifted my hands up and placed them gently around her waist. She flinched from my rough touch as if this intimacy was foreign to her.

Anika formed a drunken smile and ran up her fingers into my waves only to tug on them. I groaned finding calm in her soft hands that rubbed into my neck and up to my hair. She grabbed the mug of beer and took a sip of it before placing it against my lips. I looked at her confused unable to understand what she was doing. Opening my mouth, I obliged, allowing her to pour the beer into my mouth. The taste felt less bitter as if she had drunk all of the poison to offer me the soothing sweetness.

"Do not lie to me. I can tell you are not happy. The people who say they are doing well are actually suffering the most and likely have no one to listen to their pain. I am that person as well Shivaay. A lonely person always finds another lonely companion like I have tonight in you. I have my friends, but they are not really my friends. If they were then they would not have brought me here tonight and gotten me drunk. They would have thought well of me."

Her eyes filled with tears as she formed a weak smile to hide her pain. My heart dropped unable to see her like this. It felt awful to see her in tears, even though ,she was just a stranger and another girl. But, the way she revealed her own wounds to me and she being the first person to listen to my silent cries encaptured me, perhaps, because we were on the same path of emptiness.

She slid off the bar counter and grabbed my hand into her. The softness of her touch letting me know that for a night I may not feel alone while in company of a woman. All women I have been with every night only enter my bedroom and attempt to give me an escape through pleasure, but this is the first time I felt a woman knock on the door of my heart. A genuine woman who does not seek pleasure, though pretends. I can tell she only wants someone to just be with her.

Anika grabbed our hands and took a step closer to lean into my ear. I felt a chill go through my body making me surprised since I never felt this way around a woman.

Grazing the heat of her lips against my ear, she whispered, "You and I are the same, so let's give each other company for tonight. Let's forget our sorrows and have fun. We deserve to be happy for once! Why should only those who hurt us be happy?! Come on let's dance and then we can get out of here. Just you and me."
She weaved seduction around me making me her slave. Grabbing my hand, she began to lead me down to the dance floor. Her hips swayed elegantly against the loose layers of her red dress as she threw her chestnut waves against my lips. The rose fragrance, of her locks, consumed my senses and incited a thirst for her.

Her hand let go of mine as she turned amongst the other dancers and began to shake her deadly hips. The hidden curves of her body came to light as she traced her hands slowly up her waist to her breasts to show me her sweetest spots that held hooks of pleasure. Her intoxicating eyes barely held open. Swinging to the sound of music, she lost her train of thought completely. I felt myself weaken for the first time. Her beauty allured me. The innocence, simplicity, yet pain, she carried enticed me. The fact she was broken, just like me, made me want to have her in hope that we both would heal each other tonight. I felt an attraction to her wounds and her flaws. I do not know what it was, but her ugly, worst side made me crave her, so I began to close the gap between us.

"Why do you feel so familiar to me Anika? Are you sure we have not met each other before?" I leaned in closer seeing her brown marbled eyes that appeared to be ones I had known for long.

She gave me a blushing smile and placed her head on to my chest. We danced slowly in each other's arms failing to keep up with the rhythm of the music.

"I do not know Shivaay. You do feel familiar to me as well. The moment I saw you tonight, I felt this unusual pain...like an old wound had been exposed and it wanted healing from you. It's feels like I know you from a past lifetime..."

Her innocent thought making me laugh as I stumbled back clearly now fully drunk. She began to giggle and grabbed the collar of my shirt to pull me closer.

"Past lifetime?! Tujhe toh chard gi! For sure you are drunk now! What nonsense Anika?! So we are apparently some long lost married couple who died and now are reborn to meet each other for the first time in a club?! Or maybe you were my wife and died only to be reborn again to fucking stalk me in this lifetime?! Anika you are cracked!" I began to joke at her quite amused by her nonsense.

She threw a giddy smile and pushed herself against me wanting to close the gap between our lips. Our mouths barely brushed, but enough to ignite a small crackling, spark between us.

"No! What if we are some married couple who died and were born again?! Maybe you were some kadoos boss of mine...or professor...and then like you seduced me shamelessly...and then married me! Is that not hot? Maybe in this lifetime you should also seduce me! Come on seduce me Shivaay!" She threw the challenge blatantly, with her smile widening, wanting to see if I was capable of such.

I gave her a wicked smile and grabbed her hand pulling her into my arms. My fingers trailed up to her chin with my lips pressed against her cheek. She gasped appearing stunned by my sudden move. I twisted my tongue gently on her jaw to tempt her senses.

I smirked and slid my hands down her hips drawn to her deadly curves. Anika formed a dangerous smile as she pushed her back against my chest and began to dance against me. She ran her trembling hands around mine to dig them deeper into her waist. Without a thought, I buried my lips into her neck making her heave. She closed her eyes shut and wrapped her hand around my head pulling me down further into her skin begging to be touched. I began to rhythm myself against her as she continued to sway and slither upon me. My mouth opened against her neck to take a small, wet kiss and taste her. I was right. Her taste poisonous yet addicting. It tasted sweet like wine yet held a bitterness. A perfect taste which reflected innocent, yet, sassy Anika.

"Shivaay...I want you...." She slurred against my ear and began to bite on it lightly enough to drive my senses crazy. I felt a sudden need to have her and claim every part of her. My palms ran up to her cleavage as I dived my lips further into her shoulder. I pumped it with hasty kisses to explore every piece of her. She moaned and immediately turned into my arms with her face burying into my chest unable to tolerate the admiration. I chuckled and pulled her into an embrace with my lips softly sucking the edge of her cheek.

Our bodies smoldered with heat and pressed into each other. Her hands entwined into mine as she arched herself back only for me to pull her in. My eyes met hers to see that flame of passion she now was holding...a need to have me. We felt a subtle thread of connection between us. It felt like we were not strangers, but ones who had been familiar with each other since long.

"I want you too Anika. Damn you are gorgeous than any woman I have ever seen..." I mumbled against her lips wanting to kiss them. She blushed furiously and placed her hand on my shoulder to lead me into a waltz. Our feet matched each other's rhythms as we circled ourselves across the dance floor.

"Well you succeeded in seducing me Mr. Hotts. Quite the seductor you are. Now come on, enough playing games. Let's ditch this place. I want to be alone with you...understood?" She traced her finger up to my lips wanting them to be shut closed, so only she could be heard.

My heart pounded nervously realizing that indeed she was going home with me tonight.I felt an urgency to take her in right now in any place. A sudden desire surged forcing me to want to have her immediately as if she was a drug. I have never been desperate to have a girl until now. She has this mystery and uniqueness which makes me want to explore her and lift up layers of secrets she carries.

Anika flipped her waves back again and pulled out a cell phone from her pocket. "Look I am going to now call my ex-boyfriend Ayaan and you will be a good boy and just follow my lead. Then we will silence my phone and for the entire night...it will just be you and me." Anika made an unusual request which aroused confusion within me not able to understand what she was exactly planning.

She giggled and grabbed my hand dragging me down the hallway which led out to the entrance of the bar. Her friends called after us trying to hold us back. Anika groaned in frustration and stomped her heel loudly on the floor before throwing them a middle finger.

"Fuck off, will you guys?! I found myself a man like you all told me to, so now leave me alone! You all are just jealous I found a hot guy! Now bitches go away and call me in the morning!" Her exuberant mouth fouled towards her friends whose jaws dropped open not having expected the insult.

Anika drunkly giggled and grabbed my arm leaning against my chest. She pouted and hummed a song with her arms wrapped around me tightly. The warmth of her body against mine incited goosebumps. It felt odd and peculiar considering I have not been embraced ever. Her slightest touch making me believe that I too am cared for. I faintly smiled finding her drunken senses adorable. She looked absolutely cute and I hate the word "cute", but damn she can wear any expression and look gorgeous.

"Come baby! Let's go! I do not want to be with my meanie friends...I want a nice, shy guy like you! My adorable little monster...my monster! My hot, cold hearted monster!" She pinched my cheek and pulled it widely making me howl in pain. She smirked and grabbed my arm to push me against the wall.

I turned bright red feeling awkward. The way her eyes wandered all over me to check me out and the lust ridden on her salivating lips made me curl up...like a girl. She literally made me feel the way I make other girls feel...shy, timid, and childishly excited about the night.

Her hand ran up to my collar and she slowly leaned herself against me brushing her chest against mine. I grumbled slightly as I felt a current run past me. She leaned her mouth against my ear to only blow a dangerous heat into it.

"Now you will just follow my lead baby. If you want me then you will join this phone call and say exactly what I want you to say. So just listen to my instructions when you get on the phone. Show me how much you want me in your bedroom tonight..." Her seduction smothered me. My heartbeat dropping about to crash any moment.

What is this woman? Holy crap. Seriously what is she made of? No woman has ever made me feel this weak except her.

Her fingers treaded themselves gently down my chest making it quiver and shake. Chills ran through, which I never felt, until now in the presence of this woman. She gave me a demonic smile and placed the phone to her ear. Her hand traced up to my neck and she pulled me closer. My lips buried into the nape of her neck wanting another hit of her taste. The thought of drinking off of her incriminating, but desirable considering she held the same intentions as me. My mind fleeted in the deadly fantasy of the night which had just opened its eyes and would still be alive for many hours to come.

She smiled against my shoulder and held on to me while my lips began to work on her. Taking small sips, I placed brief kisses on the curve of her neck to incite a subtle moan from her. I smirked and continued to press ardent, subtle kisses up to her jawline to tease her. She let out a giggle and placed her phone on her ear.

"Hello, Anika is that you? Why are you calling me?! How many times do I tell you to stop calling me?! Are you psychotic?!" The man on the other end of line roared through the phone. I clenched my fists against Anika's waist. My anger slowly crawled up hating how she was being spoken to.

Her eyes held a set of tears, but she pushed them back and let out a giggle. Consumed with a need to take revenge, she opened her mouth widely and pressed a possessive kiss against my cheek letting its sound juice into the phone. I looked back to catch her grin and throw a wink at me.

"Yeah baby...make me feel good...you are the best...My ex could never compete with you! Harder! Harder!" She spoke loudly into the phone and began to push herself into me. Her firm hand throttled my throat as she lowered her head and slammed an eager hungry kiss right on my chest. Her soft touch making blood through my body to flush me red. Slipping her tongue out of her mouth, she slid its wetness down my neck making me moan in pleasure loudly right into the phone.

"What are you talking about?! Anika! Speak to me!" Envy flickered in his voice. A laugh escaped from both of us as we found ourselves loving the torture we were giving him.

I grabbed her waist and pushed her against me with possession in a need to claim her. She gasped with her eyes locking into mine which held a current of desire. Suddenly, my lips plunged to her bosom to leave temptation filled kisses and syringe her with my drug of lust.

"Come here baby! You are now only mine! Forget that bastard! Say my name...say my name!" I hissed into the phone wanting him to hear and remember that she is not his anymore, but now is on the path of becoming mine.

Her eyes closed shut with her hands sliding into my waves as she began to moan. Diving my lips further down her neckline, I swirled my tongue into her cleavage only to trek my lips up to her shoulder to taste her. Taking in the dips of her neck, I increased the pace of my lips and drenched her with hydraulic kisses.

"Shivaay...Shivaay...I only want you. No one else, but you..." She smacked her lips against the speaker wanting him to hear. Her hand took a hold of my cheeks and she began to rhythm herself against me. My breaths becoming heavier as she laid a slow trail of quivering, hot kisses from the corner of my jaw down to my chin. We exchanged a mischievous smile hearing the speaker on the phone curse loudly.

"Harder...harder! Come on...harder baby! Please...!" She screamed in a pleasurable voice making me laugh immediately hearing her fake a sex sound.

"What the fuck?! Anika what are you doing?! Who are you with?! Tell me right now! You cannot move on so fast! You cannot!" He raged and raved wanting to strangle the both of us, but we continued.

I grabbed the back of her head and pulled her closer with our lips barely brushing apart. The heat of mouth swiveled against hers, only to drift away and take small hits of her rosy cheeks.

"I will give you the best tonight! Come on baby...catch up to my speed. Now. I want all of you. I will claim my right on every single part of you!" My claim making her gasp in surprise having not expected the boldness from me. She let out a giggle and began to jump up and down in my arms before making kissing sounds right into the phone. I chuckled and led her down the hall towards the entrance of the bar.

"Get away from my Anika! I am telling you get away from her or I will kill you!" Her ex continued to curse, but I did not give a damn. Instead, I grabbed her by her cheek and slapped a wet kiss.

Anika grumbled. She appeared to become angry as she tugged on the tangles of her hair in frustration. A groan of rage escaped from her lips to hint at how she likely had bottled up for long.

"Fuck you asshole! I ain't going to be your servant anymore! I gave you so much of me and yet you broke up! Go jerk yourself off!...And you know what right now I am with a guy who is super hotter than you...stinking rich...a sex bomb...and someone who I will sleep with tonight! So you can go to hell for all I care for!" She screamed the crass level of insults to the bastard on the other end of the line before cutting it.

Our eyes met each other to show mischief as we reminded ourselves of what had just happened. Suddenly we erupted into laughter. Her face turning red as she leaned closer and grabbed my jacket. My lips evolved towards her in a teasing fashion while she drunkly giggled and pushed herself against me. Her mouth steamed alcohol which further allured me. Both of us senseless with our intoxicated bodies folding into one and continuing to brush heat into each other. My eyes barely open, but enough to admire her beautiful brown eyes, innocent apple shaped cheeks, and her full, rose colored lips. She was a beauty...the most gorgeous woman I had ever seen.

"So I am a sex bomb to you?" I muttered in a husky voice. She let out an immediate giggle and leaned in closer to brush her lips against the back of my neck. Her waves flipped against my face, but enough to set off the rose scent that further toxified me.

"Yeah...you are baby. You are so hot...I want you." Anika's smile widened and she wrapped her palms around my cheek pulling me closer into her with our lips barely apart, but still steady.

My heart thudded loudly, which it never had done before. I felt surprised not having thought a strange girl who I had just met, would have such an effect upon me, but she did. To hear her she wanted me...drove my senses wild with various ways I could make her mine. She felt precious...rare...a gem.

Our legs entwined into one as I grabbed open the door and stumbled back outside. My hands took a strong grasp of her curved hips to take her into an embrace. Another giggle escaped from her as she leaned against the railing of the stairs.

"Why am I so drunk!...Why is my luck so bad that I get a hot guy when I am my worst?! Shit! Geez...you are going to now abandon me right?" Her eyes formed tears with her lips quivering. Loneliness shaded her suddenly and she went into silence. The pain she had been hiding all night came to light.

https://youtu.be/zwMHXgusVzk

I dragged my hands up to her cheeks to wipe away her tears away not finding them worthy of even touching her. She formed a faint smile looking at me mesmerized. I smiled and pulled her closer not wanting to let her go. My lips pressed themselves gently against her temple to tell her know she was not going to be left alone tonight. Her eyes met mine to reveal a glimmer in them that was ignited from my simplest kiss. The wind pushed against us to tear us away, but we held on to each other with my hands dragging down hers. Her small hands fitting perfectly into my large ones as they entwined into one.

"I am alone. I really need someone tonight. My parents are super pissed off at me because they think... like I am at fault for the breakup...But...like I am not Shivaay. I swear I am not. You know why the breakup happened?" Her voice trembled to reveal the insecurities and vulnerabilities she had carried around all night waiting to reveal them to the right person.

I slid my hand around her back and pulled her into a tighter embrace to let her know she will not be let go no matter what. She let out a laugh and looked away out to the large lake across from the bar.

Tears streamed down her cheeks endlessly as she clasped her palm against her mouth wanting to scream. My heart fell seeing her state able to sense she was crashing. I wrapped my arm around her and began to guide her carefully down the steps towards a small wooden bench by the lake. We kept our silence, but held on. Her hand traced up to my heart as she buried her lips into it while I pulled her into me feeling a need to protect her.

I led her to the bench and helped her sit down. She took me into a hug immediately. My hands slid around her gently and I accepted her into the embrace letting her know she is not alone and has me to unravel her feelings to.

"Anika...please don't cry like this. He is not worth your tears. Please do not break yourself for a man who never deserved you..." I whispered the words tenderly into her ear, but she shook her head and clenched onto my shirt tightly.

"Y-you don't even know. You don't know what he has done to me..." She whispered as she leaned her head against my shoulder and stared at the night sky.

The silence spoke everything. It could be felt in the pain that spread its roots up to her heart and splintered out in form of tears. Something was wrong. There was more of a tragedy to her story.

"He broke up with me...because I forgot to do his laundry again. My parents and his mom want to fix our marriage together after college...so this is like a pre-run trial of our relationship. I always...l-liked him since we were young...and um...he's the first guy who gave me some attention...and I the idiot loved it, so I took him in my arms...and began to do everything for him. He's in college like me...and so like I do his chores because that's what a good girlfriend and potential wife does according to my m-mom...Anyways I-I forgot to do his l-laundry...because I was studying for my finals all week long and it was important for me to do well...so I forgot and then he...um...got mad...and he...raised his hand on me." She paused trying to take a deep breath, but failed as she began to tremble violently.

A wave of shock went through my body with my heart hitting a pause. I turned towards her stunned unable to even grapple on to what I had just heard. She bit into her palm to hold on to a scream as tears continued to run down her cheeks. Strength glowed in her eyes with her lips forming a bare smile, in an attempt, to show the courage she still held despite what she had faced.

"What?...Anika...I-"

"Don't. Just don't. I went to police to file a report, but they did not listen because his uncle is the police chief. My parents told me to keep hush. So don't. Don't try to be my savior. Just hold me for now. I just want to be held. I do not want anything else. I just want to feel...that I too am worthy of living."

Her voice went into a dead whisper. She went pale. Her tears vanished. The pain gone. She shut off completely. She locked herself into a shell immediately after hitting the dark memory.

Tears lifted out of my eyes from envisioning the image of her in pain. I did not even want to imagine what she would have gone through, but I cannot stop the image. I know that pain. I have felt it. I have felt it in that dark room where my own mother...punished me. My own wounds from the lashes and whips resurfaced making me feel that agony which I still had not forgotten.

She needs me just like I need her. She has gone through what I have. She wants to just be...alive...like I do. She wants a night of life...like I do. And that is enough to tell me how much I want to heal her even for a moment.

I lifted my hand and placed it into her trembling one that laid in her lap. Anika lifted her gaze to reveal her innocence that was enough to tear me down with wonder of what she must have faced. My hand merged into hers' as I lifted it up and pressed a tender kiss upon it. She appeared to blush for the first time finding my touch not lustful, but intimate...the one that wanted to heal.

"You are the most beautiful person I have ever met. I can tell how kind and compassionate you are. And perhaps...your naivity and innocence is your biggest enemy, but even to have such is a deadly weapon against those who try to hurt you and pull you down. You are a force to be reckoned with...and do not ever...ever...go back to a man who treats you wrong. He is not worthy of you."

Biting her lips, she held back her tears as if it was for the first time she ever had been praised. She shook her head in hesitance and pressed her palm against her cheek to hide her tears. It looked like she never had a companion, whenever she hit her lowest point in the past, so she was not used to having someone see her sorrow.

"I-I know...I know I should not go back to him. I won't...Can we stop talking about this?...Please."

I felt hesitation knowing it was wrong to do such...but then what could I do? I myself have faced such...and I know how it feels...It feels like our souls have been damaged not just our bodies...it feels like we have become an ugly object upon which anyone can come and laugh upon...we do not find trust in anyone. I can relate...I know how it feels.. and that is why I cannot leave her. She needs me.

Anika leaned against my heart and kept her silence. My arms wrapped around her to shield her and hold her even if it meant forever. She lifted her gaze up to reveal her radiant chocolate brown eyes which held ripples of pain. Her hand drew goosebumps across the side of my neck as she took hold of it. That tearful smile lured me. Our mouths began to part as we leaned in and drew heat on to each other's mouths.

Her soft lips pressed gently against mine. My mouth parted to allow her to taste me. A spark went off. We slipped our wet tongues into each other only to slow down the kiss and explore the taste of pain, which salivated out, from the wounds we carried. The bitter taste of alcohol mixed with sweetness intoxicated us further as we deepened the tender kiss and molded it into a passionate one. We both tightened our grasp on to each other's cheeks and began to increase the rhythm of our lips. We sucked on our invisible bruises and drank each other's poison wanting to heal the other.

Our heartbeats merged into one as if they had before...but a long time ago. I felt a thread weave itself from her heart into mine to tie it together into a knot. It felt as if she always had been made for me...she felt like the one. The one you find once...who the divine makes for you. The way her wounds mimiced mine...the way her silent courage competed with mine...the way she revealed her broken side to only me...She felt like the one.

And so I took her in.

Flashback Ends

Tears touched my eyes remembering her broken image from that fateful night.

That night everything changed. She forever became mine. I became hers'. It was fate. To meet her on my father's birthday, the only person who I ever dared to trust and love, signaled that maybe my own father had sent her to save me and be my companion since I had no one. She was just like him...lively, vivacious, and someone who made me feel that life was worth living. I found depth in our connection. The moment she revealed how she had been abused, I found that thread that tied me to her because I too for years, as a child, had suffered abuse.

Her wounds became mine...and I claimed her in the most intimate way. We were both senseless, but I had taken an image of her...and the next day when she was gone...I kept it and searched for her. I knew she was the one...the woman I would like to have a home with. I do not believe in marriage, but I do believe that someone is made for the other in this world and for me it is Anika. That night she won me. The way she made me laugh...wiped my tears...showed me life...revealed her wounds that were similar to mine...that innocence...that naiveness...that need to be wanted...I felt a compelling desire to have her and ever since I searched for her.

For years, I looked for her until finally finding her now. The worst part is that she does not remember, however, I do have her. I have always wanted her. I had given up, but when I did was when I found her. That night was everything...there is more to it, but that is another story for another time.

It's just the moment I held her at the lake was when I unraveled her and saw wounds she had begotten from that bastard. That man who dared to lay a finger on her and hurt her. Ayaan.

She did not fight for herself because the whole world went against her. She faced his abuse and never said a word. Even now she is not raising her voice against him and daring to fight for herself. But, I will take her revenge. I will ruin Ayaan. Anyone who will dare to come near Anika and even lift a finger upon her will have to face me. If law cannot do justice, then I will. I have the perfect plan on how I will bring him down and Anika will be part of it. She just needs to sign that contract to be mine...and then we both will give him a punishment which everyone will remember for years to come.

A wicked smile came across my lips as I reminded myself of that plan. I threw my head back and slammed my feet loudly on to the ground wanting to punish that Ayaan in this very moment.

No Shivaay...you cannot just easily let him off the hook from a small beating...hurt him where it will be the worst.

"Meh...Pa...Meh!" Chaaya's small cry broke me out of my trance and pulled me into reality. My demeanor softened seeing the little one roll on to her stomach and reach her hands forward towards the bathroom door. She appeared to sense Anika's presence in there as she let out a cry wanting to be with her.

"Don't worry she is here Chaaya. She is getting ready..." I picked her up in my arms to comfort her, but failing. Her attachment to Anika prevalent in her big tears and pout that expressed yearning.

It was quite strange how easily she had formed an attachment with Anika considering she never had gotten close to anyone, including me and Daadi. She has a fear of humans, yet a stranger like Anika has won her over. Well, my Anika is special...and that is why I see her as the perfect mother for Chaaya. She has that selflessness which allows her to love a stranger's child as her own...like Chaaya.

https://youtu.be/XpPhpAHyGO0

The bathroom door opened. My heart stopped for a second upon seeing the beautiful figure unveiling itself. Layers of red chiffon fabric cascaded down her elegant, olive hued curves.Printed pink roses vined through the fabric to bring grace to her. She lowered her gaze in demure and began to blush not able to tolerate the silent praise I was giving by once not looking away.

I found myself lost not knowing where to begin admiring her. She nervously tugged her crop top and long skirt to cover her waist as if she found her stunning features to be ugly. She let out a nervous giggle and made her way slowly towards me unable to gauge what was going on in my mind.

"S-Stop looking at me like that...Do I look that hideous?" She gazed at me innocently to reveal she held no sarcasm, but genuinely was critiquing her appearance...like always.

Always putting herself down because of a past with a man who made her feel ugly by wounding her without a cause. Would a woman not have insecurities if all her life she was never told about her strengths, but told to have supposed flaws which actually she never held?

I smiled and reached my hand out forward to take a grasp of hers'. Her trembling fingers wrapping into my large ones as our eyes locked. She held hidden fears of being broken and picked apart, but attempted to cover it with a forced smile not wanting me to see.

"Even the word perfect will fall short in describing you. No one ever has had the ability to make Shivaay Singh Oberoi speechless. No one until you. I can find hundred ways to praise you, but still will not do justice to you. I just want to say thank you for allowing me to see you the way no one ever did...for allowing me to revere you...and for giving me a place in your darkness. You are precious to me Anika and I hope I never lose you."

She formed a radiant smile as my words colored her a deeper shade of red. I grabbed her hand with force and pulled her down on to my lap. A giggle escaped from her lips liking the boldness as her body pressed into mine. We looked at each other in silence...drunk with happiness and peace that we never experienced until now...alone...only with each other.

Lowering her gaze, she looked at Chaaya who sat on my other leg. Chaaya let out a giggle and shrieked in excitement seeing Anika. She awed over her and began to babble as if mooning over her beauty. Anika chuckled and pulled Chaaya into an embrace to dote her with kisses.

"My cutie pie! No you are the most beautiful girl not me! My shona!" She adored her with kisses leaving red lipstick marks on the infant's cheeks. Chaaya let out another loud shriek loving the attention.

I rolled my eyes hating how I had given this woman such a good compliment and instead of awarding me a kiss, she has decided to ignore and focus on this infant. Chaaya is stealing my time I am telling you. This baby is determined to ruin the mood.

My hands trekked themselves carefully around her waist to take in every inch of her smooth skinned waist. She flinched slightly under my coarse touch, but leaned herself into me. I let out a chuckle and took advantage of her acceptance by burying my lips into the nape of her neck. She whimpered and wrapped her palm around the back of my neck to guide me to her sweet spot. Opening my mouth, I rolled my tongue to taste the hazelnut flavor of her skin. A small moan escaped from her lips as she placed her palm on Chaaya's eyes not wanting her to see. She appeared ashamed of how we were letting go of our reservations in front of our infant. I pressed my lips against the curve of her shoulder only to lift them up and plant another soft kiss on her cheek. She sighed and closed her eyes shut to relish the slow, longed kisses drifting up and down to her jawline.

"Shivaay stop...Chaaya is looking. Later tonight hm?" She barely whispered not ready to let go, but her morals telling her to not indulge.

I shook my head in annoyance and buried my lips into her neck continuing to leave small pecks.

"No! What does this baby have that she gets' all the attention and not me? I complimented you and you did not even respond, but went straight to the baby. I do not like this now!"

Anika let out a laugh and ran her hand through my hair to mess them up, which I hated. She knows I am sensitive about my hair, but still loves to tangle them up.

"Because jaan...my Chaaya is such a cutie! No one can even compete with her cuteness. I cannot help myself from giving her attention! Now where is Athiya? We are getting late and I want to run things over with Athiya on taking care of Chaaya until we are out late." Anika ready to leave my lap, but I grabbed on to her waist tightly not ready to let go of her yet.

She moaned in irritation and picked up Chaaya on to her shoulder to hide her from seeing my antics. "Actually you are wrong in calling my Chaaya a baby! The real baby is you! Never listening to me, but only finding ways to cause trouble!"

I chuckled and bit into her earlobe to further irritate her liking her fiestiness. She gasped and looked at me with her jaw dropped open having not expected the act. Giving her a wink, I slapped a sloppy, loud kiss against her cheek to nibble on it.

"You have not yet seen what trouble I can cause...maybe tonight I have to show it to you once we get to bed. I think you need to be taught a few things, so you can stay in line..." I teased the dirty thought to her and coursed my mouth to her ear and take it in whole. Her mouth widened open and she appeared mortified having already imagined what I was going to do.

"You are such a cheapda! Evening was enough now! Stop being so desperate! And I am going to put you back in line! Don't even think of causing me trouble!" She slapped my shoulder with great force to incite a small howl from me.

I let out a laugh enjoying the small tease liking this bolder side she rarely displayed. She formed a smirk and grabbed the back of my neck to place a tender kiss on my forehead. We looked at each other again to lose ourselves in our eyes that revealed the innocent, growing roots of attraction.

A sudden knock on the hotel room door disturbed us. I groaned in annoyance and purged my lips against her throat to drown her with tempting kisses, not in the mood to go out tonight, but spend time alone with her.

"Anika...let's cancel plans for tonight. I do not give a fuck about the stupid dance competition. Let's have our own fun...just you and me."

She rolled her eyes upon hearing my request considering she already felt she had gotten enough for today since we were in bed all day.

"Let go! Have some shame Chaaya ke Papa! You are so old now! Stop being a cheapda and realize you are old! Five years until forty!" She threw the insult on me aware how I become irked whenever she mentions our age difference.

This is how she always turns me on in bed by briefly mentioning I am too old for her which is enough to drive me insane. I have a strong feeling she does this on purpose to find sexual satisfaction.

She slammed her elbow into my chest to incite a sudden pang. I grabbed my chest and collapsed on to the bed while she giggled and snatched herself up. Grabbing the door open, she formed a smile and hugged Athiya to welcome her inside.

"Athiya thank God you are here! So, I have packed up all of Chaaya's things in this bag for tonight. There are five bottles of milk, diapers, first aid kit, two sets of clothes, her favorite teddy bear, doll, a storytelling book she likes to hear before going to sleep. She hates sleeping fully in the dark and needs a dim light on. Also, she has a habit of waking up every three hours and wanting milk, so do not forget. If she starts crying, give her the teddy bear and try to sing a song which will calm her down. I want her to go to bed by nine o'clock or earlier, so make sure that is done. I gave her a bath, but before taking a nap or sleeping, she likes to get a bath, so give her a short one in warm water. I have fed her, but if she is hungry I have packed fruits and call room service to get her smashed potatoes, lentils, anything that is soft-"

"Madam stop! Stop! You are making my head spin! These many instructions?! Hain? Am I machine to you?!" Athiya grabbed her head with both of her hands traumatized by the sheer amount of work she was being given, but she deserved it considering what a lazy nanny she is.

My jaw slightly dropped open. I was surprised how much Anika had remembered Chaaya's littlest habit and liking. Even I do not know so much about her, often, seeing such habits as a temper tantrum, but now when I think of it, Chaaya is picky in the smallest things and likes them done in a particular manner which only Anika caught on. She barely has spent a few days with her and knows so much?

Anika sighed and formed a worried expression as she eyed a babbling Chaaya in her arms. If she had it up to her, I bet she would have taken that baby to the nightclub since that is how attached she has gotten. I slightly smiled finding more pride in my choice of Anika being Chaaya's mother. I knew she would be perfect for her. My heart saw that compassionate, spoiling mother in her.

"I know I am sorry Athiya for giving you so much work, but I promise Shivaay and I will double your salary. Just please pay attention to these little things and take proper care of Chaaya tonight. She is so little and I know she is a picky, but please she is a child, so be sensitive to her. Please Athiya?" Anika, the genius, pleading to my own employee like she was working for her, instead of the fact, it being the opposite.

Athiya formed a dirty look to show her attitude as usual. My temper snapped and I immediately got up making my way towards her not liking Anika being disrespected. I grabbed Anika's hand and wrapped it into mine to let Athiya know she is just not some random girl I am with, but someone who now is the equal head of my home. I brought coldness with me that was sensed by Athiya, who avoided my gaze, able to catch my anger.

"Athiya I am going to say this the first and last time. Anika is now the head of my home and your boss. Anika is very special to me and if I see any employee being rude to her or not obeying her orders then that employee will be fired on the spot. So, you better stop complaining and do the work you have been hired to do. Daadi has been extremely lenient on the mistakes you have made in caring for Chaaya, but I am done with you. Get your attitude in check or else your will be fired. I will double your salary and even triple as long as you follow Anika's orders, respect Anika, and take proper care of my daughter. Understood?" My voice loud and stern to engrave fear into Athiya's mind and put her back in her place.

No one can dare to be rude to my Anika and get away with it. I will ensure that everyone knows that Anika Malhotra is now Shivaay Singh Oberoi's...and she has become my equal in every aspect of my life from money, ownership, and my home.

Athiya trembled and nodded with her head lowering to Anika. I smirked and looked back towards Anika who formed a tearful smile. She gazed back towards me to reveal her gratitude for how I had given her a high position in my life not once ashamed of her and not seeing her as my mistress, but as my mate. I can lay the entire world at her feet because that is how much she means to me. I see my forever only in her.

"Sorry Anika ma'am and Oberoi sir. You both do not worry about Chaaya ma'am. I will take good care of her tonight. I promise."

Anika formed a faint smile immediately accepting Athiya's apology just because she was too kind. "It's fine Athiya, please do not apologize at all. Actually, I should say sorry to you because I am at fault for giving you so many instructions. I just am a little overprotective about Chaaya for some odd reason, but I trust you and I know you will be good to her."

I sighed in frustration hating how Anika once again had bowed due to her humbleness. Looks like beyond the bedroom, I have to teach her how this world works. She is too naïve and sweet. People will wreck her if she continues to be overtly nice to every damn human. I have learned early on in my life that fear is what earns you respect in this society not kindness.

"Acha bye my Chaaya baby! I love you so much. My laadli...don't be meanie and cry cry...only smile understood? Only smiling and being good girl like you are with me! God I will miss you tonight! Now give me a kissy!" Anika spoke in a babbling voice to Chaaya who grinned like she understood her instructions. I smiled seeing the bond between the two as Chaaya planted a soft kiss on Anika's cheek only to get a return of overdosed, big, slobbering kisses. The infant let out a trail of giggles liking the sheer amount of kisses she was getting for free by Anika.

I let out a laugh and leaned over to press my lips on Chaaya's head to bid her farewell. She met my eyes and gave me a smile, liking how she was now getting my attention, not just Anika's. I can tell she is my niece...well now my daughter...she loves being at center stage which I like as well.

"Acha now be a good girl and go to sleep. Don't wake up and cry in middle of the night so I have to come and bring you to my room. Anika and I need alone time tonight..." I whispered to her, but enough to earn a slap on my shoulder from a glaring Anika. Chaaya laughed and nodded appearing to understand what her duty was which was pooping, sleeping, and not waking up.

Anika handed off Chaaya to Athiya barely letting her go. She pouted and waved at a crying Chaaya who did not like the separation. I wrapped my hand around Anika to stop her from going after Chaaya as she disappeared behind the closing door.

I promptly smirked and slid my palms around her waist to pull her into an embrace. Anika shrieked in surprise and clasped her hands around my fingers trying to escape my hold. A laugh escaped from my lips that plunged into the nape of her neck.

"Now where will you go hm?...Forty huh? So now you will taunt me on my age! I think you deserve to be taught a small lesson..." I whispered teasingly against her ear.

She let out a giggle and threw her head back against my shoulder feeling ticklish by my slightest touch. Her smile spread to her crimson red cheeks as her eyes rolled back to indicate the small dose of pleasure she found.

I followed our reflection in the glass window. Her fingers entwined into mine to match the lines of our fate. She buried her shy smile into my heart aware it was the only one which held a home for her to live in. A soft smile touched my lips as I ran my fingers gently through her waves to pull them away and admire her precious smile which always did wonders to my heart.

Anika, you deserve the world. I still cannot phantom how you were able to save your innocence considering the cruelty you faced at the hands of others. God knows what you are made of that you still dared to love those who only have given you pain. The way you only love and never hate captivates me. I do not understand how one can love after being wounded by those who we have given a piece of our heart to. I lost my ability to love a long time back...and so I will never be able to understand the meaning of this love that Anika has dared to carry. But what I do know, is that Anika is my everything. Something about her gives me hope, light, and a desire to live. I do not know when this attraction deepened and why for so many years I could not stop thinking of her, but I couldn't. She gives me hope because of everything that happened that night...There is more to that night that I will remember another time. But right now, all I know is I will treat Anika the way she deserves to be treated. Her honor will be mine. Her dignity will be mine. From now on, she will be Shivaay Singh Oberoi's and I will ensure the whole world knows. Now Anika is my responsibility. I will protect her and shield her. I will avenge those who wronged her.

Anika's Point of View

His lips gently pressed a tender kiss on top of my head. His heartbeats ran without a rhythm just like mine. I felt myself drown into embrace which felt the most different, yet precious out of all the intimate moments we have shared. I do not know why, but this simple, random gesture of pulling me into his arms and hugging me without a meaning makes me feel I have the whole world right here in form of Shivaay.

This is so fast. It is wrong. We are breaking our walls and crossing boundaries while walking on dangerous waters, yet, we are not letting go. It is as if we had some unfulfilled desire from a past, that had been struggling in hunger for years, almost on verge of death, before coming back to life when we met.

It feels as if I have not known him only in this lifetime, but many past. I know my thoughts are so cliched, but he makes me feel so different. I cannot explain it, but to have him away from me for a minute feels like eternity. The way he ensures I am in comfort and cared for. The way he gives me respect and does not hide me from the world, but proudly tells them about us makes me realize that not all men are same, but there are some who know how to value a woman.

I do not know what is happening, but I always have a desire to be with him and be admired by him in a small caress, a kiss, or...when being made love to. I do not know why I getting affected so fast despite knowing it's wrong to commit quickly. However, I do see a future with him for some peculiar reason...not only him, but his precious daughter who I see as my own. Couples with a nameless relationship are not supposed to feel this way...I am not supposed to feel so close to him...feel like I am a part of him....

Wait.

Does love make one like this? Am I in love? Is this what love really is?...Not the one Ayaan supposedly gave me where he only broke me?...Is this what love is where you feel vulnerable, selfless, yet, powerful knowing you have a soulmate who will always love you no matter what?

Am I falling in love with Shivaay?

I closed my eyes tightly shut to bury the thought in my heart knowing love is a crime I shall never commit and Shivaay himself will never accept. I cannot walk down the lane of love again. I cannot. It is best I pursue this bond with Shivaay that is only based on fulfilling our needs while building our home where we both can be each other's support and fill our loneliness. This is what our bond is. Our bond is to fulfill our emptiness and loneliness...give us hope...nothing more. Love is not allowed...it will only bring destruction.

Suddenly a bouquet of beautiful, pink roses entered my sight. My eyes widened and I gasped in surprise having not expected the small gift. His gaze meeting mine to reveal the twinkle in his blue hues that held ripples of kindness. I shrieked in excitement and snatched the bouquet of roses to plunge my giggles into them.

"Oh my God! You got me flowers?! This is the first time a guy has gotten me flowers! Oh my God I love this gift!" I buried my lips into the petals to suck on their softness and whiff myself with their fragrance that always gave me calm.

He began to chuckle amused by my childish reaction to the roses. I giggled and shyly blushed finding myself giddy. My fingers ran carefully through the petals wanting to save their beauty that would soon vanish and meet death.

"Anika they are just flowers! You are acting like it is a diamond necklace or a designer bag even though they are just lifeless flowers! I have never seen a woman react like this to flowers...out of all the ones I have ever dated."

I let out a fake laugh and threw my head back finding myself fill up with an ego knowing I am above the other girls who dated him and failed to appreciate his kind gestures. He looked at me confused not able to catch me gloating.

"Well baby, you have dated only high class, rich bitches who likely shit gold in form of poop and fart out diamonds for free! I mean these girls likely do not even know what love and romance is...They have been brainwashed to only love money not people!"

I rolled my eyes and pressed the roses against my lips to admire them further. Yeah I know I have crass, weird humor that no one gets. So what? Me gonna be me. You be you.

Shivaay chuckled over how I continued to whiff the scent of the roses like a puppy. "These are your favorite?"

I let out a giggle and nodded immediately to answer his question. "Yes. Even though they offer pain in form of thorns, they still are worth to be appreciated due to their fragrance that is enough to give anyone peace and make them feel loved. Thank you for giving me such a simple gesture of love."

Shivaay's eyes widened with his mouth parting open. I found myself bewildered not able to understand why he looked slightly shocked by my statement. Suddenly, he formed a frail smile. He appeared charmed by my reaction as he took a step closer towards me. I reached a standstill drawn to his handsome features I failed to notice for long. His blue eyes held a storm of mysteries. His jawline spoke the power he held. His full lips that trembled, but always lit me with passion. I slept with him for my selfish reasons of sexual satisfaction, but failed to admire his drool worthy features until now.

https://youtu.be/RzJilOdsfP4

"Anika..." My name sounded like a prayer from his lips. I blushed and lowered my gaze unable to stand his guise which continued to hover upon me.

"Hm?" I tightened the grasp of my fingers around the bouquet. I began to shake finding myself tense. He has made me nervous in the past, but this is different. I feel so anxious with worry of what he must be thinking about me which I never have cared for until now.

Our bodies brushed their warmth against each other only for his palm to wrap around mine. My heart began to form a trail of butterflies which jittered and shivered under his mere touch. It felt as if this was the first time he was touching me, even though, it was the millionth. Suddenly, a ringing sound appeared in my ears only to be overwhelmed by the pulse of my heart. Sound waves of my heartbeats rushed into my hearing to purge my reasoning and tunnel my vision that solely focused on him.

"Simple gesture of love? What do you mean by that?" He spoke in a low, husky voice enough to weaken my heart that already was losing its sovereignty and on the verge of surrendering to him forever.

My breaths gone. The sound of my voice vanished. My thoughts disappeared on me completely. Only my heart began to reign and plunge me into the sacred memories we both had formed in our most intimate moments. I trembled not able to make sense of my own lines I had unknowingly spoken without much thought given. Suddenly, his fingers tightened their grasp to my trembling ones which caressed the roses petals. A wave of heat ran on to my skin as I felt his hand lightly drift up my shoulder to my neck and then my quivering lips.

"Tell me Anika...why do you find these roses as a gesture of love when you and I have promised to not ever love each other or anyone else? Why are you breaking this promise?" He did not appear angered, but somewhat saddened like he felt love was a poison not a boon.

Tears, for no reason, touched my eyes. Lifting my gaze, I revealed them to him, though, not knowing why I had suddenly drowned myself in sorrow. Silence touched the both of us as we found ourselves reach a loss. We were able to sense a difference in the air. The aura appeared to change around us. We became mesmerized by each other not once looking away, but exploring the depth of each other's eyes which held answers to the true meaning of this unknown bond that threaded our hearts into one.

I felt confused not knowing why I was getting emotional, even though, I had made a promise to myself to never love after Ayaan. I gave my entire heart to Ayaan only to be treated the worst. He broke me to a point that I may never become the Anika I once was. He sucked life out of me. Hurt me. Not only my body, but my heart. He broke every part of me only to throw me away like trash and replace me with my sister. How can my heart once again dare to surrender to another man after being treated the worst by the one it once loved?

A tearful smile touched my lips which quivered under his palm. He looked lost. Damaged to point of never being healed, but still bewitched by my presence. He appeared to form hope, but found it broken upon seeing my wounds which would never allow me to love.

"Just as broken glass is rendered unrepairable...once a heart is broken, it can never learn to love again Shivaay. Learning to love again is the most difficult. True love makes you vulnerable. Selfless. Insane. True love is between two souls that forever unite and never separate despite how much they are beaten by others who only see love as a toxic poison. I once loved Shivaay...I gave myself completely to a man who never even loved me. I broke myself down to build him up. Yet he left me. That day I promised myself to never love again and not even learn it. I can never learn to love again...It is impossible to learn to love again. It is a mere delusion that we all submerge ourselves into. We only love once. That is all. I already loved. So, I am not breaking my promise to you. Shivaay I will never break my promise to you. I will never love you..."

The cracks from my heart spread to my voice. My tear dripped on to his palm. I had broken any possible hope he held. He reached a halt. His eyes smoldered in red shades and dimmed. I noticed his lips form a trembling, weak smile that appeared forced. A sudden pain grappled on to me. I felt tightness within my heart upon sensing Shivaay's subtle sadness that flashed for a moment only to retrieve. My own words poisoned me as I found myself disassociating from them like I was losing belief in the fact I can never love...

It felt as if I was falling in love. Tears that barely traced his bloodied eyes were enough to make me feel his pain over how he may never be loved. I felt guilt over how I had spoken in such a rash manner without fully thinking, but going with a long held belief I myself may not embrace any longer. Our moments waved themselves to remind how his touch made me feel loved even for a moment. Perhaps, I can learn to love, but am not willing to.

Shivaay traced his fingers up to my temple. I looked at him curiously unable to make sense of his silence. Suddenly blood dripped on to a rose. I gasped and met his gaze which held a cloud of dusk. His thumb pierced with a thorn.

"Never love me Anika. I am not desperate for love. But, remember one thing. You are only Shivaay Singh Oberoi's. I will not tell you how I feel from knowing you will never love again, but give my answer in my silence. Let me mark you..." His voice held tears which he attempted to overpower by layers of darkness.

Tears dripped out of me as I looked at him unable to make sense of what he meant. However, a flame of desire to be marked lit within me. His sheer blue eyes held a fire of passion that glowered and pulled me towards him. His need to make me his, prevalent in how he looked at me with urgency as if my denial would only kill him.

Yes. I want this mark. I want to be his and forever forget my past. I want the escape.

"Mark me..."

His eyes softened once again and embraced an unusual solace from hearing my desire to be his. His palm slid down the curve of my waist making me shiver. Our feet entangled into one as he pushed me gently against the glass window. I leaned in closer wanting to be made his. He formed a soft smile and raised his thumb that held drips of blood. My heartbeats dropped and I began to lose myself in that deep red shade of his blood which held traces of my own soul he had begotten when we had made love many times.

Without a second thought, he raised his thumb. My eyes widened realizing what he was about to do. However, I did not resist. My heartbeats paused to allow my heart to lift up and accept a piece of him he was about to give me. I formed a shy smile for an unknown reason. Red painted my cheeks. He pushed his heart against mine to rhythm out a sacred thread and tie itself to mine. The moonlight cascaded on to us as if the divine was becoming our witness.

Then he claimed me.

He dripped his blood on to the parting of my waves. I felt my heart fall and crash only to be revived by his blood which simmered down into my being and enlivened it. The life his blood held was enough to awaken me. Felicity touched me. Tears dripped out incited from feeling as if my heart finally attained serenity after years. It felt as if I had waited for ages to be claimed by him, even though I never had.

The blood standing as a symbol of sindoor that only brides adorn.

Shivaay revealed a tearful smile as if he too reached solace. We both felt our hearts thread into one and forever tie a knot we both can never break. Him marking the parting of my hair was a symbol of his honor which he had given to me. A crown he treasured for long waiting for the right one who deserved it.

I smiled through my own tears finding myself astonished that men like him still exist. Another man, Ayaan...destroyed my honor and ruined me in front of the world. Then there is Shivaay...a man who is willing to give me a place in his life, proudly tell everyone I am his and he is mine, and willing to give me his honor. God...I made such a big mistake in loving Ayaan. If only I had met Shivaay before, then I am sure he would be the man I would have loved.

But you can still love him Anika. Do not continue to hurt yourself due to a man who was a haiwaan. He was haiwaan Anika. That was not a love. You can never love a shaitaan. What you feel right now might be love...What you feel for Shivaay maybe be love Anika. So, love him Anika. Shivaay deserves to be loved. Can you not see the pain he is in? He is just as broken as you, so why can you not heal him and yourself by love? Do not be scared Anika. Shivaay is different. Anika, he is worthy of you. My heart spoke.

I trembled from the thought and immediately crushed it. No. I cannot love. It will only hurt me. I will not walk down that path again. But, I will take the other path that will give me a home I long have wanted. I will take the other path that will end my loneliness. I do not need love. I need a partner who will appreciate my flaws, support me in my worst, and respect me by treating me right. Shivaay is that man. He is the man for me. Everyone needs someone in their life. I am tired of fighting my own battles...I too want someone who can pick me up when I fall and continue to mend me. That is all I want. Shivaay is the one who can do such.

We locked our gazes only to take in the sight of our tears which held their own mystery. He smiled and caressed his thumb against my parting to ensure I was marked. I blushed and felt nervous in his presence. My heart fluttered in excitement upon how he had made me his in such a sacred manner. Staring at me, he drawled his eyes upon my features appearing to admire my shyness that revealed my gratitude for him. He truly has proven himself to be the right man by not using me for sexual pleasure, but giving me a proper, official place in his life as his partner. He leaned in and pressed a chaste kiss upon my temple to engrave his claim.

"From now on no one will even dare to look at you Anika. I will ensure every single person knows you are mine. From now on, you are my izzat. Your honor is my honor. Your pride is mine. Your dignity is mine. You will be my equal in every aspect of my life. I hope you now know how special you are to me. I hope you believe that I never used you to satisfy myself, but I made love to heal you. For me you are above everything including my own desires. I know you can never love me, but...I-I...h-hope...o-one day you will understand h-how much you mean to me beyond just love. You are more than love..."

Tears streamed out of the both of us. I became speechless. His mysterious, unspoken confession not making sense, but still having the ability to plunge me into euphoria. Happiness embraced me as I entered a mehfil of serenity. It felt as if I finally had gotten something I lost a long time back. It is as if this happened before. My fingers trembled as I forced myself to touch the drip of his blood which now was my jewel. I smiled finding an empty part of my heart fill itself up like it had kept that space only for Shivaay.

He faintly smiled and wrapped his fingers around my neck to pull me closer into his embrace. My heart plunged from his touch finding it intimate. Weakness overcame my trembling hands that collapsed against the cool window. The bouquet of roses fell down between us only for him to step over them and brush himself against me. Waves of heat ran through me as he began to lean in. Wrapping my fingers around his wrists, I lowered my temple and pressed it against his as our eyes met each other once again. We exchanged our blushing smiles only to feel a fire of passion spark between us.

Time went still.

His fingers rubbed my lips gently to part them open. I heaved against his palm as my breaths deepened. Our eyes rolled back intoxicated by the thought of making love. We both began to forget the night that was ahead of us. He and I continued to close the distance. Our hearts ready to tie the last knot by fulfilling the last ritual remaining to become one...not by bodies, but souls.

Suddenly, our lips entwined into each other. His lips took mine in to dive into a soft, tender kiss. We paused for a moment to relish this union. We arched ourselves and merged into one. He began to gently suck on my quivering lips wanting to taste every bit of it. He slithered heat into me in an attempt to break down any barriers I held. My lips melted against his as I slowly began to respond and took my time to savor their sweetness. Our hands spreading against each other only to fold together and merge our fates forever. Drowning into a river of ecstasy, we began to take a blunt hit of long, fervent kisses finding ourselves enter a realm of selfishness where we developed a hunger to possess each other.

Tears continued to stream down our cheeks as we rubbed them away angrily in a want to make this moment joyous and free of any sorrow we carried. Molding our lips into a resounding kiss, we stumbled against the balcony doors as he pushed himself against me and began to rhythm his body against mine. My hands plunged down to his heart to feel their erratic beats that were elicited by me. I smiled against his mouth and pulled him into a deeper kiss wanting to let him know how much he was wanted. He groaned in hunger and slipped his tongue into my wet folds to ripen the kiss. We began to vigorously pump our breaths into each other to give life to our wounds and strengthen the single thread that tied ours hearts together.

Suddenly, a phone went off. I sighed in annoyance hating the timing. My hand slid down to the pocket of my skirt. A giggle escaped from my lips as I slapped the phone against my ear waiting for the caller to speak.

"Damn you are looking hot tonight...Just shut the phone off will you?! No one can come between us right now...tonight it's only you and me baby...Understood? Only Shivaay and Anika..." Shivaay grumbled in frustration and continued to kiss my lips determined to not let go of me tonight. I continued to laugh and moaned in pleasure while pushing my lips harder against his.

"Anika is that you?" The voice sent a shiver upon the wounds of the past I still carried. The last man I wanted to hear from appearing to speak on the other end of the line. Shivaay continuing to suck and bite on the bottom of my lip not aware of the caller.

I heard a sinister laugh at the other end. My hand tightened its grasp on Shivaay's arm in an attempt to seek protection. Memories from the past swept through to remind me of how that laugh was often used to be a warning signal to me.

"I hope you still remember my voice sweetheart...I am your Ayaan after all, the man you claimed to love madly, but now have forgotten. I cannot believe you dared to fuck my boss. Quite the revenge you decided to take. I never thought you had the guts to break your virginity and give it to a random stranger considering how much you used to value it when you were with me. Well, now I wonder maybe you always had cheap character and I just failed to see. I bet you beguiled my boss by your innocent looks just like you did to me years ago. Khair...enjoy the time you have left with my boss because I will ensure you never find your forever with that man. You did wrong by messing with me and attempting to take revenge from me by being with that Shivaay...So now you will repay. Just watch how I will turn the tables on you."

My body numbed. Fear suddenly surged through me. The ground beneath began to spin violently. Screams from the past erupted and pain from old wounds ignited. Ayaan. The man I foolishly loved despite how much he broke me. I cannot believe I used to curse fate for our separation, but now upon finding kindness and respect from Shivaay, I have realized that relationship was pure abuse. How could I fail to not see? But yet he is a manipulator...He always manipulated me into staying with him. However, now I regret that I even dared to love a man who never knew how to love, but only hate.

I whimpered against Shivaay's lips that parted from mine instantly able to sense something was wrong. He scowled at the phone and snatched it from my hand to see who it was. His arm slid around me to take me into his protection. I closed my eyes shut and let my tears spill on to his shirt. His embrace offering me peace and daring to free me from the fear that latched on to me.

Ayaan is dangerous. He is not who he portrays himself to be. I was the one who was fooled for years and found myself charmed by his manipulative talks he would often give after he would lay his anger upon me. Never did I realize that it was abuse. Initially, I did, but soon I found it to be a routine like it was normal even though it never was. He brainwashed me completely into submitting to him. But, beyond just him...my own parents brainwashed me and told me this was normal, so no wonder after our breakup, I did not find it as my victory of gaining my independence, but heartbreak. Maybe it never was love.

I remember the many nights I often went to the police station to file a complaint only to be returned back home because of the connections he held. I remember how I attempted to get a restraining order, but always was coerced out of it by my parents who were manipulated by Ayaan. My own parents blamed me for my abuse saying I was not being a good fiancé which is why he got upset. But, the truth is that no matter how much I tried to satisfy Ayaan's wishes, I always faltered because he just needed a reason to take his anger out upon me. I was a fool at that time who believed he would change because men like him never change.

"Hello! Who is this?!" Shivaay's voice rumbled loudly. He appeared slightly irked wanting to know who it was that dared to push me back into my shell of fear.

"Oh...it's you." I lifted my gaze up to catch Shivaay turn a deeper shade of red appearing to be angered. He tightened his grasp around me and buried his lips into my neck. His lips encircled the nape of my neck to lay soft, gentle pecks upon it. I formed a faint smile finding it odd, yet, admirable how he sensed I am not well.

"Well why the hell would I care Arti got food poisoning?...Good we actually were about to call you and cancel plans anyways...I do not give a damn about that dance competition...could happen another night anyways..."

I took a breath of relief and wrapped myself tightly into his arms. Thank God the club plan got cancelled. Best for it to be another night. I hate all of them. I forced myself to come to this trip and show them that I have not been broken and they can never hurt me completely, but the truth is somewhere I do fear them still. I do fear what they all are capable of doing especially Ayaan. At the moment, the only person I feel safe with is Shivaay.

"Anyways, next time do not call Anika. If you want to discuss anything regarding cancellation or arrangement of plans concerning this trip then call me. Understood? I am not keen on any man daring to speak with my Anika for no reason. Also, always check the time before calling us because Anika and I do not like to be disturbed late at night...Ayaan stay within your limits. I am saying it as a boss. Remember you are my employee and you have to respect boundaries. Anika is now your boss' partner meaning things are not the same anymore. You have to give her respect and treat her with kindness...anything less will not be good for you," He spoke in a demonic voice.

I noticed his features darken with his eyes clouding red. His seethed and fumed appearing furious. I can tell he despises Ayaan. He would. Shivaay can be the most doting man who will shower you with praises, lavish you with gifts, and make you feel like the only woman on this Earth, but he has a dangerous, possessive streak. He does not appear to be a man who will tolerate seeing anyone else hover around me. Once he claims someone, he will not let go of them no matter what.

Shivaay slammed the phone shut and threw it across the coffee table in the living area. I trembled feeling slightly scared that he might just unleash his rage upon me...like Ayaan. Even Ayaan hated when I conversed with other men. I hope Shivaay does not misunderstand me thinking I still have something with Ayaan because I do not. I am forgetting Ayaan...I hate him. These days, the only man I think about is Shivaay because the truth is everyday, I find a deeper connection with him. And today...the way he has claimed me with such simplicity, yet sacredness, I see myself as his and him as mine...I feel that bond that now connects the both of us not by just our bodies, but our entire beings.

He slammed his feet loudly against the ground and began to pace back and forth clearly outraged. I took small steps back and tugged on the door of the balcony ready to escape. Memories of Ayaan instilled further fear that Shivaay might do that same, even though, my heart says he will never lift a finger upon me.

"A-are you mad at me?...I-I s-swear Shivaay...I have nothing to do with Ayaan...I do not know why he called me...I swear there is nothing between us-"

"Shhh..." Shivaay clasped his palm against my quivering lips to silence me. His eyes softened to reveal his vanquishing anger. He sighed and gave me a small smile further surprising me since I he appeared upset moments ago.

Suddenly thunder roared. Howling winds barraged against the balcony doors only to push them open. I stumbled back ready to take a fall before he grasped my hand and pulled me against his chest. He gave me a tender look which was enough to make my heartbeats spin in a loop. The warmth of his palm drifted up my cheek as he took a hold of it forcing me to look into his eyes. I formed a demure smile and leaned against his hand liking the comfort it offered.

"Do not ever try to justify yourself. I know you Anika. I trust you and know your will always be with me. Giving a man your virginity is a big thing. You gave me something precious because you found me worthy of it. You dared to be vulnerable to me and share the suffering you faced at the hands of your family and that moron. The way you have taken in my daughter as your own and love her more than even me is enough to tell me the woman of strong, good character you are. Your innocence and kindness has won me over Anika. The way you still show love to those who have hurt you only makes me want to have you more because I wonder what that love is like that never has an ounce of hate or selfishness, but selflessness...I wonder how it feels to be loved or love someone else in such way..."

He paused to unveil his own wounds, through his tear ridden eyes, that never allowed him to learn the very meaning of love. My heart dropped in shame over how I dared to question his character thinking he would be like Ayaan. How can I even think my Shivaay is capable of being cruel? The man who has given me so much...would never dare to hurt me. He can never dare to hurt anyone. People see his demons, but what I see is that his demons are borne from the lack of love he has had...I feel as if he never has experienced love and he craves to have it, but is scared of embracing it.

Anika, do not let go of this moment. Tonight, he has made you his in a ritual that likely he never believes in, but has done it knowing how precious it must be to you. He dared to give justice to our unknown, nameless bond by claiming me to be his and proving to me that he finds me worthy of being his partner. Forget everyone else...Forget Ayaan...Forget his threats. As long as you have Shivaay, nothing and no one can harm you. Do not let go of a gem, Anika.

https://youtu.be/3CYF0vCmoxo

Lightening struck the both of us. Rain began to pour. We continued to look at each other reveal our tears. Him and I both suffering in our pain from the past. The moonlight spread its light upon us once again to remind how it had been a witness to our union.

Raising my palm against his tears, I took a hold of them and made them mine. He lowered his gaze ashamed he had cried appearing to see it as a sign of weakness, even though, it was not. I sighed and wrapped my hands around his neck wanting him to look me in the eyes and see how much he was beginning to mean to me. Taking another step, I pushed him against the pillar and entrapped him. He barely looked up to only catch sight of the red symbol which adorned the parting of my hair.

I flushed in demure realizing now he was no longer just a man I slept with, but more than that. He was now my soulmate. He claimed me. Now I am only his and he is mine. Little did I know that life would should mercy and give me the most precious gift in the form of him. I know I may never be able to fully love him, but, perhaps, for a moment I can make him feel loved. He has a right to know how it feels to be loved.

I smiled and lifted my lips to lay a soft kiss against his temple. He bowed his head ready to surrender to me. Somewhere he appeared to give up not wanting control anymore. It was as if he was silently telling me to take the reign and for once make love to him the way he does to me.

Shyness draped itself off. The red sindoor that adorned me gave me the courage to express my right to make love to him. My lips slid down to his cheek to press a succulent kiss and take in his tears. He heaved becoming nervous which surprised me considering he has always been bold and confident when it comes to intimacy. My slightest touch appeared to make him shiver as I ran my fingers carefully down the buttons of his shirt only to dip them against his heart.

His eyes met mine to reveal hunger. Not the lustful, barbaric hunger. No this hunger was different. It was a hunger he had nurtured for years as a result of never being loved. He looked vulnerable, scared, and lost. He appeared to be conflicted about something, however, he kept his silence as if he was waiting for me to speak.

So I spoke.

"Tonight, you gave me a right as your equal in the form of this sindoor. A sindoor holds its own sacred meaning. It is not only a symbol of married women, but also a symbol for those women who seek honor and dignity from the man to whom they have fully given themselves up to. I have lost my heart to a shaitaan, but given up my soul willingly to a man who is my savior...which is you. Every person needs a companion in life and it is true I was living my life alone and able to survive alone for years, but the loneliness was killing me until I got you. You saved me. That is why I gave myself to you because you gave me hope...showed me light...The way you made me your crown of honor tonight to appreciate how I gave myself fully up to you...has won me. I can fully say that until my last breath...I will only be yours'. Even though, I will never be able to love you...I want to make you feel loved even if it is for a moment. You deserve to know how love feels like. You deserve to know what being loved is like. You deserve love because you are human too. You are the most precious gift to me, so I can never see you suffer like this without love. So let me love you for a moment..."

Tears dripped down my heart which pained not ready to fully love again even if it is only for a moment. He clasped his palm against his lips and closed his eyes shut to further reveal his tears that were not ready to stop. It was as if he was not crying in pain, but joy that finally he had gotten someone who would dare to even love his demons.

Without another word, I grabbed his neck and took a hold of his lips. Thunder roared instantly as lightening struck us again. Rain began to simmer down the heat of our bodies which molded into one. Our lips merged into a silent synchrony. We entered each other's secrets and ravished the taste of sweet crystals that rippled out of our rotten hearts which were daring to love. Suddenly lightening flashed above us once again and set us off into a frenzy. Our hands ran down each other's wet fabrics only to rip them apart. His lips began to bruise mine as I responded with equal force wanting to bite and mark every piece of his skin to make him mine. The cool rain collided against us to push us apart, but we did not let go. The kiss became turbulent, emphatic, yet still held subtle wetness of passion. We continued to undo each other's fabrics eager to become one...and finally make love that we never have before.

And then the night dimmed. The moon collapsed upon the both of us. Tears vanquished out of our eyes. And he took me in his arms only to merge his lips passionately on to mine. Silence held us. Lust died...and only love caressed us.

.....

I am so sorry if the update was not good. It took a lot of me to even write this chapter and post it. I had written this chapter in different time periods not together. I am sorry if this chapter is off. I honestly am so scared of the response because I know this chapter is controversial in every aspect and the last chapter already gave me a good bashing, so I am scared of losing you guys due to what I wrote. I just write reality and truth...I never write in fantasies, but write what is the truth of society. Now you can all understand why Anika is so vulnerable because of her past and why Shivaay has a strong need to protect her because he knows what she went through. I have used Anika's character to show reality of society, but also give hope that women can come out of this issue and continue to build themselves. This book is about Anika and Shivaay's journey to healing. They both have suffered and now I will use this book to show how they heal each other from the abuse they faced in the past...this is about their journey to growth and falling in love :).

Questions:

1. What do you think about Shivaay putting sindoor in Anika's maang?

2. Why did Shivaay put sindoor on Anika despite not believing in marriage?

3. Do you think Anika is falling in love with Shivaay?

4. What do you think of Shivaay's reaction when Anika says she can never love him? Why did he proceed to put sindoor in her maang despite knowing he may never love her?

5. What do you think the symbol of sindoor is? I am not disrespecting it, but putting into question about what it's true meaning is? Does sindoor have a meaning beyond marriage? Isn't sindoor already sacred by the divine and official vows are not needed since sindoor is enough?

6. What do you think about Ayaan and Anika's relationship?

7. Did you like Shivika's first meeting years ago?

8. Did you like the symbolism of roses? Remember Shivaay was charmed by Anika's rose fragrance when he first met her, then he gifted her roses, and used the thorn to put sindoor in her maang? Also, did you notice the similarity in language in the present and past with regards to Anika's outfit and how they united in both instances? 9. Has Shivika's journey now changed? Did you notice the change from lust to love that I showed? 10. What is Shivika's relationship right now? Is it nameless or something more after Shivaay places sindoor on Anika?

Thank you for reading and let me know if you are still interested in reading this book :). I am so sorry for the delay once again.

Ciao!

-Jasmine

P.S. I started a new Shivika book called "Infinite Love: A Journey to Forever" that already has ten chapters to be read :). This book is also rauncy, yet, emotional that explores how Shivika are bond in an illegal marriage where they have crossed all their boundaries for the sake of love. So, do check it out by clicking the link below and if it does not work, just click my name and the story is right there :). Thank you for always reading and giving a chance to my books :). Thank you for showing so much kindness and appreciation to my content :). You all are just like family and I love you guys a lot :). I hope you and your family and friends all stay safe, healthy, and happy :).

https://www.wattpad.com/852840586-infinite-love-a-journey-to-forever-chapter-1-the