Chapter 78

The next evening, Niharika stepped out of the bathroom, wrapping the soft towel around herself. Her damp hair dripped slightly as she padded across the room, reaching for the comb on her dresser—only to freeze when her eyes landed on something unexpected.

Laid out neatly on the bed was a stunning red dress, its fabric catching the dim bedroom light in soft, elegant waves. Next to it sat a folded note.

Dress well.

She picked up the paper, her fingers trembling slightly. She swallowed, turning her attention back to the dress. It was breathtaking—a deep, rich red with delicate spaghetti straps that would rest lightly on her shoulders. The bodice was fitted, hugging her curves before flaring out into a flowy, ethereal skirt that would brush just above her ankles. The silk-like fabric felt cool under her fingertips as she traced over it.

Her heart pounded. What is he planning?

Still, she couldn't deny the excitement bubbling in her chest. A soft blush crept up her cheeks as she carefully got dressed, smoothing out the fabric over her frame. She reached for a pair of diamond studs and slipped them on, keeping her makeup simple—just a light touch of kohl to frame her eyes and a natural pink hue on her lips.

As she glanced in the mirror, she almost didn't recognize herself.

She felt... beautiful.

Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of the room, only to find another note on the table.

To my beautiful wife.

A fresh bouquet of red roses sat beside it, their scent filling the air. A small, involuntary smile curved her lips as she picked them up. Another note was tucked between the petals.

Come, come, come outside.

Her pulse quickened. This man...

Following the trail of instructions, she stepped into the hallway. Near the lift, yet another note awaited her.

I'm waiting for you downstairs.

By now, her curiosity was buzzing. She quickly made her way down to the entrance, only to see his familiar Jeep Wrangler parked outside. Another note was left on the dashboard.

I know you've always wanted to drive this, so I'm letting you. The address is already fed into the GPS. See you soon.

She gasped softly.

Mayank never let people drive his Jeep.

A genuine, radiant smile spread across her face as she traced a hand over the wheel before getting in.

As she followed the directions, the city lights passed by in a blur, but her focus was on something else entirely. What is he up to?

After a short drive, she pulled up to a stunning waterfront restaurant, its golden lights casting a warm glow over the rippling water. The setting was enchanting, the sound of soft waves mixing with the faint chatter of diners.

A well-dressed hostess greeted her at the entrance. "Right this way, ma'am."

She followed, her heels clicking softly against the wooden pathway as they passed the main dining area and moved toward a private setting—one with an exclusive, picturesque view of the water.

The moment she stepped forward, her gaze landed on a red carpet leading toward a single, tall figure.

Mayank.

He stood with his back to her, hands in his pockets, his posture relaxed yet commanding. The crisp black suit he wore fit him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders. The night breeze tousled his hair slightly, but he didn't move.

She took a hesitant step forward, about to call his name, when suddenly a soft melody filled the air. The live musicians played a delicate tune, and as if on cue, Mayank turned.

Her breath caught.

His eyes found hers instantly, a slow, knowing smile curving his lips.

The red carpet stretched between them, the space closing as he took a step toward her and extended his hand.

"Come."

Her heart pounded as she walked toward him, the anticipation in his gaze making her stomach flutter. When she reached him, he gently took her hand, twirling her once before leaning in slightly.

"Good evening, wife." His voice was low, teasing. "You look beautiful."

A deep blush spread across her cheeks. "You did all this?"

His smirk widened. "Surprised?"

She scoffed, but the fondness in her eyes betrayed her.

He led her toward the candlelit table set just for them, pulling out her chair before taking his own seat. The atmosphere was perfect—flickering candles, the soft glow of lanterns reflecting off the water, the rhythmic lull of waves crashing in the distance.

The meal was exquisite, each dish carefully chosen. But more than the food, it was the way Mayank kept stealing glances at her, the way his fingers would brush hers when he passed something across the table. The way his eyes softened every time she smiled.

Halfway through their meal, the music changed, and couples began drifting to the open dance floor under the stars.

Mayank turned to her, extending his hand once more. "May I do the honors?"

She hesitated, but then placed her hand in his. "Yeah."

He pulled her close, one arm wrapping around her waist, the other clasping her hand in his. Her free hand rested lightly on his shoulder as they swayed to the music.

It was slow, intimate. Their gazes locked, the world around them fading.

For the first time in days, she felt no hesitation. No second-guessing. Just warmth.

As the dance ended, Mayank suddenly gestured toward the sky. "Look over there."

She turned, and her breath hitched.

Fireworks erupted, lighting up the night sky.

And among the dazzling bursts of color, the initials M & N burned bright.

Her lips parted in shock. "Mayank..."

She turned back to him, eyes glistening. "You did all this? When—"

He smirked. "When did I plan all this? Well... that's a story for another time."

She shook her head, still in disbelief. "Thank you so much, Mayank."

His fingers trailed along her jawline as he leaned in, voice dropping to a whisper.

"Can I kiss my wife?"

Her breath caught, but she nodded softly. "Yes."

And as the fireworks continued to explode above them, he captured her lips in a slow, deep kiss—one filled with every unsaid word, every emotion, every promise of something deeper.

A night they would never forget.

🩷

Guys don't be silent readers please—make this fun for me and you because I'm updating so much, only to be ignored.