Chapter-10

Author's POV,

As Pihu entered her apartment, a wave of tranquility washed over her. The familiar surroundings provided a sanctuary from the chaos of her encounter with Rudra. She took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure and push aside the lingering thoughts of the enigmatic man.

She found Shivani in the kitchen, busy setting the table for their dinner, and approached her with a smile. Shivani looked up, her eyebrows furrowed with concern. "Where have you been, Pihu? I called you multiple times, and you didn't answer. If you don't show up within the next half-hour or respond to my calls, I'm going to inform my dad!"

Pihu's mind raced, searching for a believable excuse while her heart raced with anxiety. She mustered a sheepish smile and replied, "Oh, Shivani, you know na I got some last-minute work, and then I suddenly had this intense craving for pastries. I couldn't resist the temptation, so I went to get some!"

Shivani raised an eyebrow, a mixture of amusement and skepticism on her face. "Pastries, huh? Well, you better have brought some back! And next time, at least answer your phone, Miss Pastry Lover!"

Relieved that Shivani seemed to buy her story, Pihu let out a nervous giggle. "Don't worry, Shivani. I've got some delicious pastries waiting for us. You won't be disappointed!"

But suddenly, as Pihu anticipated, Shivani asked with curiosity, "Which flavor is it?" Pihu's heart raced, unsure of how to respond. After a moment of hesitation, she stammered, "Um, why don't you open it and see for yourself? It's a surprise!"

Shivani raised an eyebrow at Pihu's nervous response, sensing something peculiar in her behavior. However, she shrugged it off, thinking that if there was something bothering Pihu, she would surely confide in her, as they shared everything. Brushing aside her suspicions, Shivani decided to let it go for now.

With excitement, Shivani lifted the lid of the pastry box, revealing a delightful black forest pastry inside. Pihu's eyes widened in surprise, her favorite flavor nestled within. Conflicting emotions tugged at her mind, unsure of how to interpret this unexpected coincidence. A sense of fear began to creep over her, questioning how Rudra could have known her preference. Yet, Pihu tried to calm herself, reassuring her racing thoughts that it was merely a coincidence and nothing more.

With excitement shining in her eyes, Shivani exclaimed, "Sit, Pihu! I can't wait to eat it. Let's eat our dinner." Pihu, still caught in her swirling thoughts, nervously took a seat beside Shivani. As they settled down, their usual banter and non-stop conversation filled the air, serving as a temporary distraction from Pihu's unsettling encounter with Rudra.

They dove into their dinner, savoring each bite, while Shivani shared amusing anecdotes from her day. Pihu joined in, laughing and engaging in the lively conversation, allowing herself to be carried away by the warmth of their friendship. In those moments, the weight of Rudra's presence lifted, and Pihu found solace in the familiarity and comfort of her dear friend.

However, deep down, Pihu couldn't shake off the lingering unease. The taste of the black forest pastry seemed bittersweet, a reminder of the enigmatic connection between her and Rudra. She wondered how he could have possibly known about her favorite flavor, questioning if it was a mere coincidence or something more sinister at play.

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In a dimly lit bedroom, Rudra reclined on the luxurious couch in his opulent, an amber-filled glass of fine whiskey cradled in his hand. The rich aroma and smooth taste of the aged liquor did little to distract him from the all-consuming thoughts of the girl who had ensnared his heart and ignited an insatiable obsession within him.

"Pihu," he murmured his voice husky with desire, "her name dances on my lips like a forbidden melody. The way she looked at me, those innocent eyes filled with a mixture of fear and curiosity..... it was exhilarating." His grip on the whiskey glass tightened, his mind engulfed by visions of claiming her, of making her an indelible part of his existence.

Within the depths of his opulent chamber, Rudra's obsession with Pihu blazed like an unquenchable inferno, compelling him to craft intricate strategies that would ensure her eternal presence in his life. As the night stretched on, and sleep eluded his restless eyes, his thoughts wove a tangled web of schemes, fueled by an obsession that knew no limits.

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Time Skip

Pihu's heart swelled with mixed emotions as she realized that today marked the final day of her internship. The anticipation of completing this significant milestone was accompanied by a sense of relief and accomplishment. However, instead of a regular workday, the Rathore Empire was hosting a grand success party to celebrate their recent triumphs.

Her heart fluttered with unease as she prepared for the dreaded success party. The mere thought of crossing paths with Rudra sent shivers down her spine, filling her with a mixture of fear and apprehension. Also, social gatherings were never her cup of tea, and this particular event seemed even more daunting.

As she carefully selected her outfit, trying to mask her anxiety with a forced smile, Shivani's excitement filled the room. Pihu couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt, knowing how much this party meant to her best friend. Reluctantly, she made up her mind to accompany Shivani, pushing aside her own fears for the sake of their friendship.

"Come on, Pihu, we can't afford to be late! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Shivani exclaimed impatiently, her voice brimming with excitement.

Pihu, feeling a mix of annoyance and apprehension, responded with a hint of irritation, "Shivani, can you please give me a moment? Your constant nagging is not helping. If you say one more word, I might just skip the party altogether. You can go alone."

Shivani, feigning shock, dramatically gasped and placed her hand over her heart and said with belief "You can't do that". As she pretended to zip her lips shut. They shared a moment of laughter, the tension momentarily easing as Pihu's annoyance dissolved into amusement.

Once they were both ready, they hailed a cab and made their way to the venue. Pihu's heart raced with a blend of excitement and fear, her palms slightly sweaty. She tried to maintain a composed exterior, but her inner turmoil was evident.

(Pihu looks)

(Shivani looks)

As they stepped into the grandeur of the party, the opulence of the surroundings captured their attention, momentarily distracting them from their thoughts. The shimmering lights, the enchanting decor, and the lively atmosphere seemed to cast a spell on the attendees.

But amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the venue, Pihu's mind couldn't shake off the lingering presence of Rudra. Her eyes frantically searched the room, fearing the presence of Rudra. Her heart raced with trepidation, a nagging feeling warning her of impending danger.

And then, as if the world slowed down, her gaze landed on Rudra at the entrance. He stood tall and commanding, radiating an undeniable air of power and confidence. The room seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in an unspoken confrontation. Rudra, too, scanned the room, his eyes seeking out Pihu amidst the crowd. And when their gazes finally locked, an electric current seemed to surge between them. Pihu's anxiety skyrocketed, her pulse quickening under the intensity of Rudra's gaze.

(Rudra Looks)

Meanwhile, Rudra's eyes fixated on the exquisite beauty standing before him, his admiration evident in his unwavering stare. She looked breathtaking in her blue and sky blue velvet saree, a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. The way the fabric clung to her figure, accentuating her grace, only heightened his desire to possess her. It was a sight that left him spellbound, his heartbeat quickening with each passing second.

But their connection was broken as Pihu instinctively averted her gaze, her unease overwhelming her. Rudra, too, was momentarily snapped out of his trance as people approached him to offer their congratulations. The party commenced, the air buzzing with anticipation.

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As the murmurs and chatter gradually subsided, Rudra's commanding presence took center stage. The room hushed, an expectant silence enveloping the space, as all eyes turned towards him. A spotlight shone upon him, casting an ethereal glow, further accentuating his magnetic aura.

With a calm yet authoritative demeanor, Rudra began his speech, his voice resonating through the room. But despite the words flowing from his lips, his gaze remained fixated on one person - Pihu. His eyes locked onto her, his intensity unwavering. In that moment, it felt as if the entire world faded into insignificance, leaving only the two of them in a world of their own.

Pihu's heart raced in her chest as the weight of Rudra's gaze bore down on her. The intensity in his eyes sent shivers down her spine, a mixture of fear consume her as she thought "Hey Bhagwan, Why he is seeing me so intently? What if other notice it or Shivani notice it?" It was as if he could see through the facade she wore, peering into the depths of her soul, unraveling her deepest secrets.

As Rudra continued his speech, his words resonated in the air, but it was the unspoken message conveyed through his eyes that spoke volumes. Pihu couldn't help but wonder what lay behind his intense gaze. Was it longing? Possession? Or something far more complex?

Lost in this momentary exchange, Pihu found herself both fearful and captivated, entangled in a web of emotions that threatened to consume her. The speech faded into the background, overshadowed by the unspoken connection between Rudra and herself, leaving her to contemplate the enigmatic force that drew them together.

To be continued...............................