Chapter 23: A Love Written in Starlight

The night of the success party arrived in a dazzling blur of lights, music, and celebration.

The venue was breathtaking—golden chandeliers casting a warm glow, crystal glasses clinking, and laughter filling the air.

Adhya stepped into the hall, and instantly, all eyes turned to her.

She wore a sleek, black sequined saree that shimmered with every step. The fabric clung to her curves in just the right way, the intricate silver embroidery adding an air of elegance.

Her hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, her makeup subtle yet striking—a perfect blend of sophistication and allure.

But amidst all the admiring glances—

There was only one that mattered.

Reyan.

He stood across the room, holding a glass of whiskey, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit.

And he was staring at her.

No—devouring her with his gaze.

His grip tightened around the glass as his eyes roamed over her, dark and unreadable. But there was something else there tonight. Something intense. Hungry. Possessive.

Adhya smirked, knowing exactly what she was doing to him.

She walked toward him, her hips swaying just slightly, and as soon as she reached him—

He leaned in, his voice low, deep, rough.

"You did this on purpose, didn't you?"

Her lips curled mischievously. "Did what?"

His gaze burned into her. "You know exactly what."

Before she could reply, someone pulled her to the dance floor. The music changed—a slow, intoxicating melody filling the air.

And then, he was there again.

Reyan stepped forward, offering his hand.

Without hesitation, she placed hers in his.

And he pulled her into him.

Their bodies moved together effortlessly, her hands resting against his firm chest, his arms snug around her waist, claiming her.

The room faded.

It was just them.

The way his fingers brushed against her bare back sent shivers down her spine. His breath was warm against her ear as he whispered, "You're the most beautiful woman in this room, Adhya."

Her heart raced.

She was used to their banter, their teasing, but this—this was different.

There was no teasing in his voice now.

Only pure, unfiltered desire.

She looked up at him, their faces inches apart. "You've had too much to drink."

His lips tilted up, but his eyes remained dark, serious. "I haven't had a sip since you walked in."

Her breath caught.

And then, suddenly—he took her hand and led her away from the dance floor.

He led her to a quiet balcony, away from the music and the crowd. The cool night air wrapped around them, the city lights twinkling below.

Adhya turned to him, slightly breathless. "What was that, Reyan?"

He didn't answer immediately.

Instead, he took a deep breath, his fingers slowly trailing up her arm, sending warmth through her.

And then—

"I've loved you forever, Adhya."

Her heart stopped.

Reyan held her gaze, his hands now gripping her waist. "Since the moment you barged into my life, with all your sass and mischief, driving me insane. I've tried to fight it, ignore it, but you—" he let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "You make it impossible. I don't just want you. I need you."

Her lips parted, eyes wide, shock and emotions hitting her all at once.

"Reyan..." she whispered.

He took another step forward, pressing her against the railing. "Tell me I'm not alone in this."

She swallowed, her pulse roaring in her ears.

This man—her boss, her rival, her greatest challenge—was looking at her like she was his entire universe.

And suddenly, it all made sense.

"You're not," she admitted, voice shaking. "You're not alone, Reyan. I love you too."

Something snapped between them.

Reyan crashed his lips onto hers.

The kiss was desperate, hungry, demanding.

His hands tightened on her waist, pulling her flush against him as his lips moved roughly, passionately against hers. She whimpered against his mouth, her fingers tangling in his hair as she kissed him back just as fiercely.

His hand splayed across her bare back, pressing her closer, deeper. His lips moved from her mouth to her jaw, down her neck, his breath hot and ragged.

"Reyan—" she gasped, feeling completely consumed.

He smirked against her skin. "Say it again."

She exhaled, her nails digging into his suit. "I love you."

His hold on her tightened. "Good. Because you're mine now."

And then, he kissed her again.

Deep. Intense. Unforgettable.

Suddenly—

"AHEM."

They jerked apart.

Adhya's eyes widened in horror as she turned—

To find their entire family standing there.

Her parents. Reyan's parents. Aarav. Everyone.

Aarav folded his arms, smirking. "Wow. That was... passionate."

Adhya buried her face in Reyan's chest, mortified.

Laughter erupted around them.

Their families cheered, their mothers wiping happy tears, their fathers clapping.

Aarav smirked at Reyan. "So... what do we call you now? Jiju

Reyan rolled his eyes, pulling Adhya tighter against him. "You talk too much."

Adhya peeked up at him, smiling.

She had everything she ever wanted.

And as the stars shined above them, the night filled with celebration and love, she knew—

This was just the beginning.

Her forever had begun.