Chapter 35: Chapter 25: Too Beautiful to Look Away

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Arjun

I wake up to the warmth of her body against mine. For a moment, I don’t move—I just lie there, letting the quiet of the morning settle around us. My arm is wrapped around her waist, her bare skin soft beneath my touch. She’s still asleep, her breath slow and steady, her face turned toward me, relaxed and peaceful.

The scent of her lingers in the sheets—vanilla and jasmine, mixed with something undeniably her. Last night wasn’t just about desire. It was more than that. Something shifted between us, something I can’t quite name, but I feel it in my bones.

She shattered all my resistance, broke through every last shred of my self-control. And most importantly, I had tasted her yesterday. I had her—her scent, her breath, the way she whispered my name like a prayer. I swallowed her moans, devoured every gasp that spilled from her lips.

I marked her as mine, just as she marked me—her nails carving into my back, claiming me in a way I never knew I wanted to be claimed.

Oh God.

Now that I’ve tasted her, how am I supposed to stop? How am I supposed to go even a moment without craving her, without wanting her again and again?

It wasn’t enough. It will never be enough.

Because it’s her.

It’s Ananya.

My Ananya.

My Firefly.

And I will never stop wanting her.

I turn slightly, my fingers brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. She doesn’t stir, just sighs softly, burrowing closer to me. My chest tightens at the sight. I had thought this marriage would always remain a formality, a duty I had to fulfill. But now, lying here with her, I know I was wrong.

She is no longer just my wife in name.

She is becoming something more.

I trace slow circles on her wrist, where faint marks of my touch remain from last night. The thought of her waking up and regretting what we shared gnaws at me. Will she pull away? Pretend nothing has changed?

I don’t want that.

She wouldn't do that. She said herself that she wants me too. She said she doesn't want this to be only a holiday trip.

I don’t know how to say it, but I feel it—something raw, something terrifying, something real.

She shifts slightly, murmuring something incoherent before tucking her face into my neck. I exhale, pressing a slow, careful kiss to her shoulder. She’s still here, still in my arms. That’s enough for now.

She’s sleeping so peacefully, and I have no intention of waking her. She must be exhausted. My Firefly needs rest—rest to take more of me.

A smirk tugs at my lips as a wicked thought creeps into my mind. Soon, I’ll take her the way I truly want to, the way I imagined last night while holding myself back, making sure I reached my peak only when she did.

It was her first time—I had to be careful, had to restrain myself. I didn’t want to overwhelm her. But that won’t last forever.

She’ll get used to me.

I’ll make sure of it.

I watch her, my fingers lightly tracing over the curve of her shoulder, down to where the sheets barely cover her. Last night, I had held back, controlled myself for her. But next time? Next time, I won’t.

A low hum of satisfaction settles in my chest. She’s mine now, in every sense of the word. I can still see the faintest marks of my touch on her skin—evidence of the way she had surrendered to me, of the way I had ruined her for anyone else. She had ruined me for anyone else accept her.

She shifts slightly, a soft sigh escaping her lips, and I feel something primal stir inside me. Even in sleep, she pulls me in, makes me want to wake her up with slow kisses, with whispered words that would have her blushing beneath me all over again. And I will do this.

Not yet. But soon.

She needs rest. And when she wakes up, I’ll be here. Waiting. Watching.

And when the time is right, I’ll remind her exactly who she belongs to.

I push myself up on one elbow, my eyes never leaving her. The morning light filters through the curtains, casting a golden glow on her skin. She looks like she was made for this moment—for me.

A possessive hunger coils in my gut. Last night should have been enough to satisfy me, to ease the ache I’ve felt for her since the moment she walked into my life. But it wasn’t. If anything, it only made me crave her more.

I brush my fingers over the faint red lines on my back—marks she left, proof that she had taken as much as she had given. My Firefly wasn’t just mine because of words or vows. She was mine because she wanted to be, because she reached for me with the same desperation I felt for her.

A slow smirk tugs at my lips as I lean down, pressing a lingering kiss to her bare shoulder, where my shirt has slipped down, exposing more of her smooth skin. She shifts slightly, a soft sigh escaping her lips, but she doesn’t wake.

Not yet.

Instead, she nestles deeper into the sheets, completely unaware of the effect she still has on me—even in sleep.

I chuckle under my breath, my hand trailing beneath the sheet, finding the warmth of her skin once more.

She’ll wake up soon.

And when she does, I’ll remind her that last night was only the beginning.

♡♡

The evening light filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room as I watch her stir against the sheets. Her lashes flutter, her brows drawing together slightly before her eyes finally open.

For a moment, she looks lost—like she doesn’t know where she is. Then, her gaze finds mine.

And just like that, I see it. The realization.

The memories of last night settle into her bones, creeping up her flushed skin as she pulls the blanket higher, as if she can hide from me.

I smirk, shifting closer until I can see the embarrassment flickering in her dark eyes. “Running away already, Firefly?” My voice is low, teasing, but laced with something darker—something that still hasn’t settled inside me since I first touched her.

“I’m not running,” she mumbles, her voice still thick with sleep.

“No?” I reach out, tugging the blanket down just enough to expose her collarbone, the delicate skin I had marked last night. My fingers trail along her jaw before sliding lower, over the soft curve of her stomach, stopping just above her navel.

Her breath hitches.

I watch her, drinking in every tiny reaction as I rub slow, deliberate circles over her lower belly. “You must be sore, Firefly…” I murmur, my eyes locked onto hers.

She shivers. “Arjun—”

I tilt my head, enjoying the way my name sounds when she says it like that—soft, breathless, unsure. “Do you regret it?” I ask, my fingers pressing just a little deeper. Not hard, just enough to remind her exactly why she feels sore.

She bites her lip, her gaze flickering away. “No.” It’s a whisper, but I hear it.

Something possessive stirs inside me.

“Good,” I say, letting my thumb dip slightly lower, just enough to tease. “Because last night was just the beginning.”

Her entire body tenses beneath my touch, her face burning with heat, and I chuckle, pressing a lingering kiss to her temple before pulling away.

“For now, you need to eat,” I say, slipping out of bed.

She blinks up at me, still dazed. “Eat?”

I nod, buttoning my shirt with slow, deliberate movements. “Mhm. You need energy, Firefly.” My smirk deepens as I head toward the door. “After you finish your lunch… we have to check you too.”

Her eyes widen. “C-Check me?”

I chuckle. “Eat first,” I say, walking out before she can argue.

When I return with her lunch, she’s sitting up, the blanket still wrapped around her body. She looks so small, so delicate—but I know better now. My Firefly is strong.

I set the tray in front of her. “Eat.”

She hesitates for a second before picking up a piece of food. As she chews, she looks up at me. “Did you eat?”

I shake my head, leaning against the headboard.

She frowns slightly before reaching forward, holding a bite of food up to my lips. “Then eat.”

Something warm spreads through my chest, something unfamiliar yet dangerously addictive. I don’t hesitate—I take the bite straight from her hand, letting my lips brush against her fingers ever so slightly.

She watches me carefully. “How is it?”

I chew slowly, swallowing before leaning in close—so close that my breath fans against her ear.

“Good,” I murmur, letting my lips barely graze the shell of her ear. Then, lower—so only she can hear—“But you taste better.”

Her entire body goes stiff, her fingers trembling slightly as she clutches the spoon.

I pull back just as quickly, acting like I never said anything, waiting expectantly for her to feed me again.

She stares at me, eyes wide, lips parted in shock.

I smirk.

Oh, Firefly. You have no idea what you’ve started.

After we finished eating, I took the plates away and returned with a glass of water for her. She needed to stay hydrated after last night.

“Drink,” I murmured, handing it to her. She took it with both hands, finishing it in one go, her throat bobbing with each swallow.

My gaze darkened. Even something as simple as this—watching her drink—ignited something possessive inside me.

I took a sip myself before setting the glass on the nightstand. Just as I settled beside her, she suddenly perked up, eyes widening as if she had just remembered something.

"Arjun... we were supposed to go shopping today. Remember?"

How cute.

I smirked, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Yes. We can go later.”

Her expression shifted into one of pure panic. "No… I don't have anything to wear! Arjun!!!"

I chuckled, enjoying her flustered state far too much. “I don’t mind seeing you naked.” My voice dropped lower, teasing, watching as the words registered in her mind.

Her cheeks burned instantly. "In your dreams," she huffed, trying to sound composed, but the way her fingers curled into the blanket betrayed her.

I leaned in, my lips grazing the shell of her ear as I whispered, “You are in my dreams, Firefly… but you look even hotter in reality. Just like you did last night.”

A shiver ran through her, and before she could react, I pressed a slow, open-mouthed kiss to her neck, feeling the way she trembled beneath me.

"Arjun…!!!" she gasped, pushing me lightly.

God, she was so shy. I loved that.

I chuckled, pulling back just enough to meet her gaze. "What?"

She gave me a look—half exasperation, half something else, something darker.

"Okay, okay," I said, grinning. "We’ll go today. Happy?"

Relief flickered across her face, but it was short-lived as I leaned in again, my fingers sliding under the hem of my shirt she was wearing. "But before that…" I murmured, gripping her waist and flipping her onto her back in one smooth motion. "We need to check you, baby."

“H-Huh…?” She barely had time to react before I pushed her down, her body sinking into the soft mattress. I hooked my fingers under the hem of the shirt, lifting it slightly, exposing the soft skin beneath.

"Arjun..." her voice was barely audible, a delicious tremble lacing her words.

"Shhh..." I smirked, letting my fingers slide lower, teasing the waistband of the tiny shorts she was wearing. "Let me check you, Firefly.”

Her breath hitched as my hand slipped inside, stroking her slowly, deliberately. Her fingers curled into my shirt, holding onto me as if she was trying to stop herself from completely unraveling.

I smirked. "You’re sore, baby…" I whispered, feeling the heat of her against my fingertips. My thumb moved in slow, teasing circles, making her shiver beneath me.

And then, I placed my hand on her pussy, my big hand completely covering her sweet little pink pussy. The moment I parted her soft, glistening pink pussy lips, a breathy moan escaped her, her body shivering under my touch, reacting so perfectly to me.

"A-Arjun… w-what are you doing…?" she moaned, her voice breaking with every touch.

"Checking you, my Firefly," I murmured against her collarbone, pressing a lingering kiss there before trailing lower. My free hand gripped her thigh, spreading her legs slightly.

"We have to make sure you can walk properly before we go shopping," I added, voice full of wicked amusement.

Her gasp was sharp, her body arching instinctively.

I leaned closer, brushing my lips against her ear. "But even if you can walk, Firefly… I might just ruin that again tonight."

As my fingers traced over her soft heat, a sharp gasp left her lips, her body instinctively arching into my touch. She was so sensitive, so responsive—it made something primal stir deep within me.

"Firefly..." I murmured, my voice thick with desire as I watched her lashes flutter, her breath coming in uneven pants. "You're trembling."

She bit her lip, her hands gripping my shirt as if it was the only thing keeping her grounded. I smirked, sliding my fingers just a little deeper, teasing, testing.

"You're so warm," I whispered, pressing a kiss to the corner of her mouth. "So soft." My thumb traced slow, lazy circles, and she let out the sweetest sound, her fingers tightening around my arm.

"A-Arjun..." Her voice was barely a whisper, laced with need and hesitation.

I leaned in, my lips brushing against her ear. "Tell me, Firefly... does it feel good?"

She didn't answer, but her body did—shivering beneath me, pressing closer, silently begging for more.

I chuckled, my free hand sliding up to cup her cheek. "You're so shy..." I murmured, kissing along her jawline. "Yet look at you... letting me touch you like this."

Her breath hitched.

"A-Arjun..." she tried her best to speak, her voice trembling, broken by soft gasps. "We... we have to—ahh..." Her words dissolved into a moan as I pinched her sensitive pussy lips between my fingers, savoring the way she reacted to my touch.

I smirked, my voice dark and teasing. "Don't worry, Firefly. We'll go shopping... soon."

But not yet.

Tilting her chin up, I captured her lips in a deep, consuming kiss, swallowing every whimper, every shudder, as my fingers continued their slow, deliberate strokes against her core.

Ananya

A shaky breath left my lips as Arjun deepened the kiss, his touch setting my skin on fire. My body trembled beneath him, caught between pleasure and the desperate attempt to form a coherent thought.

"Arjun…" I tried again, but my voice betrayed me, breaking into another soft moan as his fingers moved with torturous precision.

He pulled back slightly, his dark, intense eyes locking onto mine. "Hmm?" His smirk was pure sin, as if he knew exactly what he was doing to me.

I clenched my fists against his chest, trying to push him away—trying to resist the pull of his touch—but he was relentless. "W-We really… have to—" My sentence ended in a sharp gasp as he pressed his palm more firmly against my core, sending another wave of heat through me.

"Yes, Firefly?" he murmured against my lips, his voice thick with amusement.

I hated how smug he sounded. I hated how easily he unraveled me. But most of all, I hated how much I loved it.

"Y-You’re impossible," I breathed, my fingers curling into his shirt for support.

He chuckled, his lips trailing down my jaw, then lower, leaving a searing path along my neck. "And yet, you’re melting under me," he whispered.

I wanted to argue. I wanted to tell him off. But the way his hands moved, the way his lips traced every sensitive spot on my skin, made it utterly impossible to think—let alone speak.

How was I ever going to survive this man?

(Fell free to let your imagination run wild after this my Fictional Souls. 😏🔥)

Arjun

At last, we somehow managed to make it to Balexert Mall for Ananya’s much-needed shopping trip. And maybe I should keep quiet about how long it took us to get here after all that teasing at hotel.

As we stepped inside, the cool air hit her skin, making her shiver slightly. Instinctively, I wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close.

"Cold, Firefly?" I murmured against her ear, letting my lips brush against the sensitive skin just below.

She rolled her eyes, nudging me away. "You just wanted an excuse to touch me."

I smirked, my fingers tracing slow circles on her hip. "Sweetheart, I don’t need an excuse."

She bit her lip, trying to hide her smile. But I caught it. And damn, did it make me want to pull her into the nearest empty dressing room and remind her exactly how much I loved touching her.

But for now, I let her go. For now.

She wandered into a boutique, scanning through racks of clothes while I leaned lazily against a display, arms crossed, watching her. Watching the way she bit her lower lip in concentration, the way her fingers skimmed over the fabric, the way her body moved in that oversized shirt—my shirt.

I was utterly, pathetically obsessed with her.

She held up a soft blue dress. "Try this one," she said, her eyes hopeful.

I glanced at it before my gaze flickered back to her. "Pretty. But I think you’d look better in something… shorter. Or maybe just my shirt?"

She gasped, smacking my arm. "Arjun!"

I chuckled, dodging her glare as I reached for a dangerously tiny red dress. "Or maybe this? Although, I doubt we’d even make it out of the house if you wore this in front of me."

Her cheeks flamed as she yanked the dress from my hand, stuffing it back onto the rack. "Behave!"

I leaned in, lowering my voice. "Where’s the fun in that, Firefly?"

She huffed, grabbing a few more outfits and marching toward the trial room, shooting me a warning look. "Arjun, stay here."

I gave her my most innocent expression. "Why? I can help you change."

She nearly choked. "Absolutely not!"

I smirked. "Fine. But if you take too long, I’m coming in."

She rolled her eyes before disappearing behind the door. I leaned against the wall, picturing her inside—stripping off my shirt, sliding into something soft and silky.

My thoughts were already turning dangerous when her voice snapped me out of it.

"Need help with the zipper?" I teased.

A groan. "Arjun, stop!"

I chuckled. "You’re no fun."

A few minutes later, the door creaked open. And then—I forgot how to breathe.

Ananya stepped out in a dress that hugged her curves in all the right places. It was soft blue, elegant yet simple, but on her? It was something else entirely.

My eyes dragged over her, taking in the way the fabric clung to her waist, how the slit on the side revealed just enough of her thigh to make my fingers twitch with the urge to touch.

I swallowed, heat pooling low in my stomach as I imagined sliding that dress off her, my hands tracing every inch of skin it covered.

She shifted under my gaze. "Well?"

I stepped closer, my fingers brushing against her waist, needing to feel her. "We’re buying this one," I said, my voice rougher than I intended.

She arched a brow. "You like it that much?"

I leaned in, my lips grazing her ear as I whispered, "Too much. Now go change before I decide we’re skipping shopping and heading straight back to our hotel. "

Her breath hitched, her cheeks flaming as her gaze dropped lower.

"Arjun...!" she squeaked, wide-eyed, staring at—

Oh.

I followed her line of sight and—yeah. That explained the sudden shift in her expression.

I hadn't even noticed my buddy straining against my jeans until she pointed it out.

A slow smirk curled at my lips as I met her flustered gaze. "Can't help it. It’s always like this… because you exist."

Her face turned impossibly red. "Arjun!" she hissed, eyes darting around as if someone might see—which, honestly, just made it funnier.

I took a deliberate step closer, tilting my head. "Now be a good girl and change, Firefly… before I take you into that dressing room myself. And you know exactly what’ll happen then."

Her breath hitched, and in the next second, she spun on her heel and practically ran inside the trial room, slamming the door behind her.

I chuckled, shaking my head.

But the truth was—I wasn’t joking.

It was always like this with her. The sight of her, the scent of her, the way she bit her lip, the way she fit against me in every possible way. It was an ache I couldn’t shake, a craving that only got worse now that I knew exactly how she looked beneath me.

How her curves molded into my hands.

How her soft, breathy moans filled the spaces between us.

How she wrapped around me so perfectly, like she was made to take me.

I exhaled slowly, running a hand through my hair.

Yeah… shopping was definitely dangerous.

Shopping with Ananya?  Highly dangerous.

♡♡

With our shopping finally done, we walked out of the store, bags in hand. Ananya was practically glowing with excitement, swinging our joined hands slightly as she looked around.

Then, suddenly, she stopped. Her eyes lit up like a damn child’s on Christmas morning.

"Arjun! Ice cream!" she gasped, pointing toward a small stall nearby. Her excitement was so pure, so unfiltered, that I couldn’t help but chuckle.

"Whatever you want, my Firefly."

I could never say no to her. Not when she looked at me like that—like I hung the stars in the sky just for her.

I led her to the stall, ordered her favorite flavor, and handed it to her. She took it with a delighted smile, already taking a small bite when she glanced up at me.

"You’re not getting one?" she asked, tilting her head.

I shook my head. "I don’t like sweets."

She shrugged and continued eating, humming in satisfaction. That’s when I smirked.

"But… I can have ice cream another way."

She frowned. "Huh? What do you—"

Before she could finish, I grabbed her chin, tilted her face up, and kissed her.

Soft. Slow. Sweet.

The cool taste of ice cream melted against my tongue as I licked it from her lips, deepening the kiss just enough to make her breath hitch.

When I pulled back, I licked my lips and smirked. "Mmm. Sweet. Not the ice cream, though—your lips."

Her cheeks burned instantly. She looked around, then back at me with wide, flustered eyes. "Stop it, Arjun! We’re in public!"

I shrugged, completely unfazed. "So what? I’m kissing my wife. I don’t see any problem in that."

She groaned, face still bright red as she turned away, focusing very intently on her ice cream like it held the secrets of the universe.

I couldn’t resist.

"Want me to help you finish that?" I teased, nudging her arm.

She side-eyed me. "No. You don’t like sweets, remember?"

I grinned. "I don’t. But if you feed me like before, I might make an exception."

She huffed, clearly exasperated but still blushing. "Unbelievable. You just want to be spoiled."

I leaned in, lowering my voice. "Is that a problem? I mean… I let you spoil me in bed last night too."

She choked on her ice cream.

I barely held back my laughter as she smacked my arm, her face even redder than before.

"Arjun Malhotra, you are impossible!"

I chuckled, throwing an arm around her shoulders and pulling her into my side. "And yet, you still married me, Firefly."

She huffed again, but I caught the small smile on her lips.

Yeah… I’d never get tired of teasing her.

As she continued eating her ice cream, she suddenly froze, her spoon hovering midair. Her entire body stiffened, and her eyes locked onto something—or someone—in the distance.

A strange feeling settled in my chest.

"Firefly…" I called softly. Once. Twice.

No response.

I frowned and gently shook her shoulder. "Firefly…!"

She finally blinked and turned to look at me, her expression unreadable.

"What happened, Firefly? Are you okay? Is something wrong?" Worry coiled tight in my chest.

She hesitated for a moment before shaking her head. "Nothing…" Her gaze flickered around the area before she added, "Nothing’s wrong. I just… I thought I saw someone. But I must have imagined it."

I didn’t believe her.

My eyes narrowed as I studied her face, catching the way her fingers clenched slightly around the cup, the way she swallowed like she was forcing herself to breathe normally.

She must’ve noticed my doubt because she quickly reached for my hand, giving it a small squeeze. "I’m fine. Really. Don’t worry, okay?"

But I did.

I examined her a little longer, trying to read between the lines of what she wasn’t saying. But in the end, I just nodded, deciding to let it go.

For now.

♡♡

As we finished our ice cream and started heading back to the hotel, Ananya walked beside me, her fingers loosely tangled with mine. The city lights reflected in her eyes, making them glow with a soft warmth.

Then, suddenly, she slowed down.

I followed her gaze and saw what had caught her attention—a small street stall lined with colorful light-up balloons, soft plush cushions, and little trinkets.

She stood there for a moment, just looking. A small, almost wistful smile played on her lips.

"You like those?" I asked, watching her closely.

She nodded, still staring at the display. "I used to. When I was a kid, I always wanted one of those light-up balloons or soft cushions. But Maa used to say they were a waste of money." She chuckled lightly, but there was something distant in her voice. "I liked them even after growing up, but I accepted that they weren’t worth buying. So even now, I guess I still think they’re a waste of money, no matter how much I once wanted them."

She spoke so casually, so matter-of-factly, as if it wasn’t a big deal. As if it didn’t hurt.

But it did.

She didn’t even realize when she had started suppressing her own wishes. She wasn’t even bothering to give it a thought now.

I clenched my jaw, my grip on her hand tightening slightly. A part of me wanted to go back in time, find the little girl who had stared longingly at these things, and give her everything she wanted. I wanted to tell her she deserved them. That her desires weren’t foolish or worthless.

And right now, I wanted to do the same for my Ananya.

Without another word, I let go of her hand and walked toward the stall.

"Arjun—?" She turned to me, confused, but I ignored her.

I bought everything. Every glowing balloon, every soft cushion, even the tiny trinkets that I wasn’t sure she liked.

When I turned back to her, her eyes were wide with shock. I handed her the balloons and the softest cushion I could find.

"Arjun…!" she gasped, looking completely flustered.

I met her gaze, my voice firm yet gentle. "You deserve everything you want, Firefly. If you want them, they’re not a waste of money."

She stared at me, her lips slightly parted. Then she shook her head, her fingers gripping the strings of the balloons. "You shouldn’t do this for me. I told you, they’re just silly things—"

"They’re not silly if they made you happy." I took a step closer, tilting her chin up so she looked at me. "Why is it so easy for you to let go of what you want, Ananya?"

She blinked, startled by my words.

I exhaled, running a hand through my hair. Even now, she’s giving herself to me little by little. But she still doesn’t let herself fully be mine. She’s still holding back. Still in defense. I paused, watching her carefully. One day, I’ll have all of her. Not just the parts she thinks are safe to share.

She swallowed, I saw her grip tightening around the cushion I gave her. I can see she is fighting . Fighting with herself. A battle I don't know.

"Arjun…" she whispered.

I gave her a small smile, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Firefly, stop thinking too much. Just let me spoil you." My voice was soft, but firm—because I meant every word.

She bit her lip, her gaze dropping to the balloons in her hands. I watched as she clenched and unclenched her fingers, clearly caught in a battle with herself. She was thinking of something—probably another reason to refuse, another excuse to deny herself what she wanted.

But before she could say anything, she surprised me. Without warning, she threw her arms around my waist, holding me tight.

It wasn’t just a simple hug.

It was desperate. Vulnerable. Like she was scared.

My Firefly was scared.

I didn’t know of what—maybe of wanting too much, maybe of accepting that someone actually wanted to give her everything. But I wasn’t going to let her feel that fear.

Wrapping my arms around her, I held her just as tightly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

She didn’t have to say anything.

I already understood.

♡♡

By the time we reached our hotel elevator, it was already 9 p.m. As soon as we stepped into our room, Ananya sighed and collapsed onto the bed, while I set the shopping bags down on the couch.

A few moments later, the sound of rain filled the quiet room, soft and rhythmic against the windows. Ananya stirred, sitting up before walking over to the window. She placed her hands on the glass, watching the city lights shimmer under the downpour.

"It's so beautiful, isn’t it?" she murmured, mesmerized.

I walked up behind her, slipping my arms around her waist, my fingers brushing against her stomach in slow, deliberate strokes. She shivered under my touch, pressing back against me. I leaned in, my lips just a breath away from her ear.

"Yes, it is," I whispered, my voice deep and laced with meaning.

Then I kissed her—slow and teasing.

I started with the shell of her ear, letting my lips linger before taking the lobe between my teeth and giving it a playful bite. She let out a shaky breath, her body reacting instantly. I smirked, moving lower, trailing open-mouthed kisses down the side of her neck. When I reached her pulse point, I sucked lightly, earning a sweet, breathy moan from her lips.

"Arjun..." she whimpered, tilting her head to the side, giving me more access.

That was all I needed. I turned her in my arms, scooping her up effortlessly before she could even register what was happening.

"Arjun—!"

She gasped, but there was no protest in her voice. Only anticipation.

I carried her into the bathroom, setting her down on the counter. The cool marble beneath her contrasted with the warmth of her skin. I reached over, turning on the water for the bathtub, letting the soft sound of running water fill the space.

Then, I turned back to her, standing between her legs.

"You must be tired," I murmured, pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead.

Her hands gripped my shirt, her body already responding to my nearness.

"Let’s take a shower together first," I suggested, my fingers brushing against her thighs.

She looked up at me, her eyes dark with emotion, searching mine.

"You okay with that?" I asked, not wanting to push her beyond her limits.

For a second, she simply stared at me, then—without hesitation—she nodded. Not just nodded, but did so with a kind of eagerness, a silent plea. Almost like she was desperate for me to understand that she was more than okay with this.

I chuckled softly, brushing my knuckles along her cheek.

"Good," I whispered. "Because I was hoping you'd say yes."

As steam rose around us, I reached for the hem of her shirt—the one that belonged to me but looked far better on her. My fingers brushed against her skin as I slowly lifted it over her head, letting it drop to the floor. Her breath hitched, but she didn’t stop me. Instead, she looked up at me with those wide, trusting eyes, and something in my chest tightened.

"Still okay with this, Firefly?" I murmured, trailing my fingers along her bare shoulders.

She swallowed hard, then nodded. "Yes."

A slow smirk tugged at my lips. "Good."

With deliberate movements, I unhooked her bra, letting the straps slide down her arms before I knelt in front of her, my hands tracing down her sides as I hooked my thumbs into the waistband of her shorts. I felt her shiver under my touch, her hands gripping my shoulders as I pulled the fabric down, leaving her bare before me.

She bit her lip, suddenly looking away. "Arjun, stop looking at me like that…"

I cupped her chin, making her meet my gaze. "Like what?"

"Like…" She hesitated, then whispered, "Like you want to devour me."

My smirk deepened. "That’s because I do, Firefly. Every damn second."

Her breath hitched again, and before she could get lost in her shyness, I scooped her up in my arms, carrying her to the bathtub filled with warm water. Gently, I set her down, watching as the water embraced her, her skin glowing under the dim lighting.

Before she could adjust, I stepped in behind her, settling myself in the tub and pulling her against my chest. She fit so perfectly, like she was meant to be there. My arms wrapped around her waist, my chin resting on her shoulder as I exhaled against her damp skin.

"Comfortable?" I murmured, pressing a soft kiss to her shoulder.

She hummed in response, her fingers trailing over my arms that held her close. "Mmm… this feels nice."

I smirked against her skin. "Told you."

She rolled her eyes, but I felt her relax against me completely. The rain outside continued to fall, the soft pattering against the window adding to the warmth between us.

I reached for the loofah, soaking it in the water before gliding it along her arm. "Let me take care of you," I whispered.

She sighed, leaning into my touch. "You already do, Arjun."

Just the sight of her like this, warm and bare against me, made my body react instantly. No matter how much I tried to control myself, my arousal was impossible to ignore. And judging by the way she suddenly stiffened, she had felt it too.

Her breath hitched as she looked at me, her gaze flickering downward before she hesitantly reached out, her fingers moving toward my length. But before she could touch me, I caught her hand, stopping her with a firm yet gentle grip.

She looked up at me, confusion swirling in her wide eyes. "You… you don’t want it?" Her voice was small, almost disappointed, as if she thought I was rejecting her. As if she thought I could ever be bored of her.

Fuck. That would never happen.

I exhaled sharply, releasing her hand only to cup her cheeks instead. "Firefly, I want you. Every single time. But you are more important to me than anything."

Her lips parted slightly, but I continued before she could argue.

"You need rest, baby," I murmured, brushing my thumbs over her soft skin. "You're still sore. So no, I don’t want to do this tonight."

That was a lie. I wanted her so badly it hurt. I wanted to take her a thousand times over, make her cry my name until she lost her voice—but she didn’t need to know that. Not right now.

Because I didn’t just want her body. I wanted all of her. Every thought, every secret, every hidden part of her she still hesitated to share.

And one day, I’d have it all.

For now, though, she needed rest—so that when the time came, she could take me more than yesterday, more than ever before.

She opened her mouth to protest, but I silenced her with a soft kiss on her forehead. Reluctantly, she let it go, and after we finished showering together, I dried her off and helped her into one of my shirts. Again. Because she wanted to.

"It's more comfortable," she murmured, running her fingers over the fabric.

Comfortable for her, painful for me.

Every time she wore my shirt—her delicate frame drowning in the fabric, her bare legs exposed beneath—it drove me insane. I wanted to ruin her all over again. But I had to control myself.

Instead, I picked her up and carried her to bed, tucking her in before stepping back into the bathroom.

As soon as the door closed, I turned the water back on and stepped under the freezing spray.

A cold shower. Yeah, I definitely needed that.

By the time I returned, she was already fast asleep, curled up under the covers. My heart softened at the sight. She must have been exhausted.

I climbed into bed beside her, pulling her into my arms, her body molding perfectly against mine. She stirred slightly but didn’t wake, her soft breaths warm against my skin.

I pressed a lingering kiss to her temple, then another to her lips, careful not to wake her.

And with her safely wrapped in my arms, I finally allowed myself to sleep.

Ananya

I woke up to the steady rhythm of Arjun’s heartbeat beneath my cheek, his arms wrapped securely around me. His warmth surrounded me, anchoring me, and for the first time in years, I felt truly safe.

I lifted my head slightly, careful not to wake him, and took a moment to just… look at him. His face was relaxed in sleep, the usual sharpness in his features softened. His long lashes rested against his skin, his lips slightly parted, his hold on me firm even in unconsciousness—like he never wanted to let me go.

A slow smile tugged at my lips. How did I get this lucky?

And then, the memories of yesterday came rushing back.

The ice cream. The laughter. The way Arjun teased me, kissed me in the middle of the street like he didn’t care who was watching. The way he looked at me when I tried on that dress. The way he held me when I hesitated, silently telling me it was okay to want things, to dream, to have desires beyond survival.

And then…

Him.

I froze, my breath catching.

When I was eating my ice cream, lost between the coldness of it and the warmth of Arjun beside me—I saw someone. I saw him. Maybe. But he looked like him. The person who ruined my life all those years ago.

But he couldn’t be here, right? I must have been mistaken.

I didn’t even realize Arjun had been calling my name until he shook me gently, pulling me back to reality. The worry in his eyes was unmistakable. And in that moment, I understood one thing—none of it mattered. Not the past. Not the memories. Not him.

All that mattered was Arjun.

I would be okay.

And luckily, Arjun didn’t push me for answers when I told him I was fine. He just nodded, trusting me, giving me space.

And then, there was the moment at the market.

When Arjun brought me light-up balloons, soft plush cushions, and even little trinkets—things I secretly adored but never allowed myself to want—I felt something crack inside me.

I loved it. I really loved it.

But in a second, my defenses shot up.

I wanted to tell him don’t.

Please, don’t do this, Arjun.

I don’t want them. I can’t want them. I can’t get used to this. I can’t let myself loosen up like this. I can’t. Because if I do—if I get too comfortable, too attached—what happens when it’s all taken away?

I won’t be able to pull myself out of it if he keeps doing these things for me. These little things I always dreamed of but convinced myself would never happen.

But I didn’t say any of that.

I just hugged him.

Because at that moment, all I wanted was him.

All I wanted was to be in his arms. To disappear into him, even if just for a little while.

And when we returned to the hotel, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think we might end up making love.

I felt it. He felt it. He was hard, and I knew he wanted me just as much as I wanted him. But we didn’t.

He just took care of me.

And when he asked if I was okay with showering together, my heart melted. Not because of what it implied—but because he asked. Because he cared.

I nodded instantly, because I meant it. I wanted him to know I was more than okay. That I felt nothing but safe with him.

But no matter how much I tried to push it away, I couldn’t shake the image of what I saw.

Of him.

He left my life years ago. He can’t be back.

Right?

I exhaled shakily, gripping the fabric of Arjun’s shirt between my fingers. I knew I would be fine as long as he was with me.

But… what if?

What if one day, he doesn’t want to be with me anymore?

What if, after knowing everything about my past—about him—Arjun decides I’m not worth it?

On our wedding night, I told him to wait. That I needed time to gather the courage to tell him about my past. About everything.

But what if, after knowing the truth… he hates me?

No.

Come on, Ananya. He won’t.

Would he?

Stop it, Ananya. Just stop.

Stop thinking about things that don’t matter. About people who don’t matter.

Think about the one who does.

The man lying beside me.

Arjun.

My husband.

Yes. Mine.

Arjun stirred beside me, his grip around my waist tightening slightly before his eyes fluttered open. The lazy morning light made his dark eyes softer, still heavy with sleep. His gaze met mine, and almost instantly, his lips curved into a sleepy smirk.

"Oh? My Firefly is already awake?" His voice was deep and husky, laced with sleep, making my stomach do a little flip.

Before I could respond, he leaned in, capturing my lips in a slow, lingering kiss. His warmth, his touch—it was all too much yet never enough.

"Good morning, my baby," he murmured against my lips, his thumb stroking lazy circles on my waist. "How did you sleep? Do you have pain anywhere?"

I felt my face heat up instantly.

I should be used to this by now—the way he cared for me so openly, the way his words held nothing but pure concern. But I wasn’t. I could never get used to this. To him.

To being his.

I lo... Stop. Don’t go there. Not yet. Not so soon. You can’t.

After spending a few more minutes wrapped in Arjun’s warmth, we finally got up and freshened up. The morning felt light, peaceful—just him and me, no worries, no overthinking. Just us.

Breakfast was served in our hotel suite, a beautifully arranged spread of fresh fruit, warm pastries, eggs, and coffee. I reached for a croissant, only to find Arjun smirking at me from across the table. I paused mid-bite, narrowing my eyes.

“What?”

He leaned back in his chair, sipping his coffee like he hadn’t just been caught. “Nothing. Just enjoying the view.”

I rolled my eyes. “Eat your breakfast, Arjun.”

“But I am eating,” he said with a slow grin, eyes trailing over me.

I nearly choked on my croissant. “Arjun!”

His laughter echoed through the room as he reached for my hand, pressing a kiss to my knuckles. "Fine, fine. I’ll behave—for now.”

After breakfast, we decided to go for a swim. The hotel’s pool was stunning, an infinity pool with crystal-clear water, overlooking the city skyline. The moment we stepped outside, a soft breeze brushed against my skin, making me shiver slightly.

Arjun, of course, noticed immediately. “Cold, Firefly?” he murmured, wrapping his arm around my waist.

“I’m fine.” I stepped away before he could get any ideas, but he just chuckled.

The pool water was warm and inviting as I dipped my toes in. I turned back to see Arjun watching me with a playful glint in his eyes. Before I could react, he suddenly scooped me up in his arms.

“Arjun! No—wait—”

Too late. With a mischievous grin, he jumped into the pool with me in his arms, sending water splashing everywhere.

I surfaced, coughing and glaring at him. “You—”

He ran a wet hand through his hair, looking effortlessly gorgeous, and smirked. “Yes, me?”

I splashed water at him in response.

He chuckled before swimming closer, trapping me between his arms against the pool edge. “You’re going to pay for that, Firefly.”

I swallowed hard, my heart racing at the way his wet skin brushed against mine. “Oh yeah? What are you gonna do?”

His smirk deepened. “Many things. But I think I’ll start with this.”

Before I could escape, he leaned in and pressed a teasing, feather-light kiss to my lips.

My breath hitched. "Arjun, stop! People are watching."

"So?" he murmured against my lips, clearly unbothered.

I pushed at his chest, but he didn’t budge. Instead, he pulled me even closer, whispering, "Relax, Firefly. Just have fun with me."

And with that, he playfully dunked me under the water again, laughing as I came up spluttering and ready to murder him.

This man was impossible. But damn it, I loved every second of it.

By the time we got back to our hotel room, I was exhausted but content. The swimming, the teasing, the laughter—it all felt like a dream, like a version of my life I never thought I’d have. One where I was happy.

Arjun, of course, noticed how I shivered slightly as we stepped inside. He was always quick to pick up on things when it came to me.

"Go change first, Firefly," he said, brushing a wet strand of hair off my face. "I'm never going to make you wait in wet clothes."

I nodded and grabbed my clothes before heading to the bathroom, leaving him to change outside.

As I slipped into the warm bathroom, the sound of rustling clothes outside told me he was already getting changed too. Then, just as I turned on the hairdryer, his voice came through the door.

"I'm going out for a bit," he said. "You wanted something other than hotel food, right? I'll bring something good for lunch."

I smiled at his thoughtfulness. "Okay. Be careful."

"Always," he said, and then I heard the door close as he left.

Now alone, I let my thoughts wander as I dried my hair.

Yesterday. In the bathtub.

I bit my lip, remembering the way his touch had set my skin on fire, the way he had wanted me. But he had stopped. He had controlled himself.

You need rest, baby. You're still sore, so no. I don’t want to do this.

Why?

Did he think I was weak? That I was too fragile, too delicate, that if he touched me, I’d break?

I frowned at my reflection. I am not weak. I am not fragile. I could handle Arjun Malhotra.

And maybe it was time to show him that.

My gaze drifted to the shopping bag from yesterday, the one Arjun hadn’t noticed.

The red dress.

I hesitated for a second before pulling it out, the material slipping through my fingers. When Arjun had teased me about it at the store, I had acted indifferent, but secretly, I had taken it.

And now, I was going to wear it.

Slipping into the dress, I adjusted the hem and looked at myself in the mirror.

I looked... different.

The deep red fabric hugged my curves in a way that felt both bold and unfamiliar. The short length, the way the neckline framed my collarbones—it was a look I had never dared to try before.

Would Arjun like it?

A nervous flutter ran through me at the thought of his reaction.

I bit my lip, smoothing my hands down the dress as I waited.

Waited for him to come back.

After what felt like hours—but was probably only minutes—the door finally opened.

"Firefly, I'm back. I brought you—"

Arjun’s voice trailed off.

I turned to face him, only to find him completely frozen in place. His eyes were locked on me, wide and dark, his grip on the food bags tightening as if he had forgotten how to function.

I swallowed. He’s not saying anything.

Did he... not like it?

A wave of self-consciousness crept over me, making my fingers twitch against the hem of my dress.

Bad idea.

"I... I shouldn’t have worn this," I mumbled, more to myself than to him. "Maybe I shouldn’t have bought it in the first place."

Still, no response. No movement. Just Arjun, standing there, looking like he had forgotten how to breathe.

My awkwardness spiked. "Umm... I think I should change. No—I am going to change. Just... wait here." I forced a small, embarrassed smile and turned toward the bathroom, desperate to escape.

But before I could take a step, a strong hand wrapped around my wrist, stopping me in my tracks.

Arjun’s grip was firm but gentle.

And when I turned back to look at him, his eyes weren’t just dark anymore.

They were burning.

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