20.

Mira’s POV

I wake up and turn to my side, only to find Jiya sleeping peacefully. Her face is calm, her long lashes resting against her cheeks.

I glance at the clock and see that there’s still some time left before we need to leave. I don’t have the heart to wake her up just yet, so I let her sleep for a little longer.

Today is Monday and I hate Mondays.....don’t ask me why. Just the thought of it makes me sigh.

I push the blanket off and step out of bed. The cool floor sends a slight shiver up my legs, so I quickly grab my slippers and head to the bathroom. The moment the warm water touches my skin, I feel a little better. The hot shower relaxes my body, washing away the sleepiness.

Once I’m done, I wrap myself in a towel and walk into the closet. I pick out a casual outfit and get dressed.

As I look around, my eyes land on the shelves filled with neatly arranged clothes, shoes and makeup products. Everything is new.

Last night, when we returned from the long drive, our clothes were already here. But they weren’t our old clothes. Abhiraj didn’t bring those.

Instead, he had someone pack only a few of our important things and replaced the rest with brand new clothes. Not just that....there are different types of footwear, makeup and so many other things girls use.

I look at myself in the mirror, adjusting my outfit. My hair is still damp, so I run my fingers through it letting it dry naturally.

Now, it’s time to wake Jiya up.

I walk to the bed and shake her gently. “Jiya get up or we’ll be late”

She groans and raises two fingers without even opening her eyes, silently asking for two more minutes.

“Jiya wake up now or else I’ll throw water on you” I warn my voice firm.

She finally opens her eyes, still looking sleepy. Instead of getting up, she rests her head on my lap and smiles lazily. “What’s the problem? Why won’t you let me sleep for a few more minutes?” she whines.

I roll my eyes. This girl is still stuck in her childhood era.

“Fine you sleep. I’m going downstairs anyway. Dev called me” I say getting up from the bed.

I walk to the door pretending to open and close it before staying still near the entrance. I watch her closely. The moment she thinks I’ve left, she quickly throws the blanket off and jumps out of bed. She’s about to rush towards the bathroom when her eyes fall on me standing by the door.

She freezes. I glare at her, raising an eyebrow.

She gives me an innocent grin before sprinting toward the bathroom and locking herself in.

I shake my head at her antics, a small smile playing on my lips.

Leaving the room, I head downstairs. The living room is already filled with them and they seem to be waiting. Did I wake up late or did they wake up early?

“Good morning” I say walking toward the couch and sitting beside Zar.

“Good morning” they reply in unison.

I gently run my fingers through Zar’s hair. He leans against me, resting his head on my lap.

“Are you still sleepy?” I ask looking down at him. He nods his head without saying a word. I smile softly, continuing to stroke his hair.

“He is becoming so lazy day by day. I have noticed this” Dev says, shaking his head.

I smile at him before looking down at Zar, who is still resting his head on my lap.

“I don’t like lazy people” I say in a teasing tone.

The moment Zar hears my words, he quickly sits up straight, his blue eyes wide as he looks at me. His tail wags excitedly as if trying to prove that he is not lazy at all.

I chuckle at his reaction. He then gives me his most beautiful smile, making me shake my head in amusement.

I glance toward Abhiraj and to my surprise, he is already looking at me. A small smile rests on his face but his eyes… they seem to be asking for something.

I frown slightly, not understanding what he wants. So I raise my eyebrows and ask him through my eyes.

In response, he lifts his hand and lightly taps his finger on his cheek.

Wait… is he asking for a kiss?

My eyes widen in shock. A sudden gulp goes down my throat and I feel warmth rushing to my cheeks.

I quickly shake my head, snapping out of my daze. My eyes flicker toward Dev, who is busy with his iPad not paying attention to us.

When I glance back at Abhiraj, I see him pouting slightly.

My eyes unwillingly drop to his lips. Ahh, those lips… they are every girl's dream.....perfect shape with a slight reddish tint.

Realizing what I am doing, I quickly lower my gaze, trying to control my emotions. Just then I hear Jiya’s voice.

“Good morning everyone!” she says cheerfully as she walks towards Zar.

She leans down and places a soft kiss on his forehead.

“Good morning my baby” she coos at him, ruffling his hair.

I shift my gaze toward Dev and as expected, he is side eyeing Jiya and Zar. This man… he definitely has feelings for my Jiya but he refuses to confess.

“Let’s have breakfast” I say.

Everyone gets up and walks toward the dining table. We take our seats and the helpers begin serving the food.

As we eat, we talk about random things, laughing and enjoying our meal.

Midway through breakfast, Abhiraj speaks up.

“Both of you will come with me to the office” His tone is casual I know he expects us to agree.

I immediately shake my head. “No we will go by bus.”

A chuckle escapes his lips.

“There isn’t a single bus stop anywhere near here” Dev says, looking at me. “Our mansion is far from the crowded area. If you really want to go by bus then you’ll have to walk for 25 minutes first and then you’ll find one”

I stare at him, my brain processing this information. Now what should I do? Before I can think of a solution, Jiya speaks up.

“It’s okay. Just tell your driver to drop us off and pick us up” she suggests, looking at Abhiraj.

I nod in agreement. That seems like a better idea.

“But what’s the problem with coming with me?” Abhiraj asks his tone slightly impatient.

I shake my head at his words. “There are many problems and it’s final....we are not going with you.”

He scoffs but nods his head, not arguing further. As we continue eating, Jiya turns to Zar.

“Zar when we come back from the office, we’ll watch that together” she says mysteriously. Zar nods his head excitedly.

Abhiraj narrows his eyes at them. “What are you talking about?” he asks.

Jiya simply shakes her head. “It’s our personal talk” she says, casually taking another bite of her food.

Abhiraj looks at her for a moment but doesn’t push further.

After finishing breakfast, we step outside and a black car is already waiting for us the one Abhiraj arranged for us to use.

Without saying anything, we get inside, ready to leave.

Dev’s POV

I walk into my office, heading straight to my cabin. As soon as I step inside, I shut the door behind me and let out a frustrated sigh.

My mood is not good today. And the reason? Zar.

Jiya is making things difficult for me and I know she is doing this deliberately. She is trying to make me jealous I can feel it in every little thing she does.

But you know what? I don’t mind. Because her actions tell me one thing she still has feelings for me.

I have caught her staring at me multiple times, always when she thinks I am not looking. And that… that makes me the happiest man alive. Because now, she is here, in the mansion, living under the same roof as me.

Last night was proof of everything.

When I sat in the passenger seat, she taunted me. At first, I wanted to sit beside her but Mira was already there. So I had no choice but to sit in the front. But the moment she passed that comment, I happily got out of the car and switched seats just to be next to her.

Then, when she asked me to click pictures of her and Zar, I pretended to be annoyed. But in reality? I was enjoying every second of it.

The way she posed....sometimes funny, sometimes breathtaking.....made it impossible for me to look away.

And while I did capture her in her  phone… I also captured her in my heart a long time ago.

I lean back in my chair running a hand through my hair.

I can’t keep watching her make me jealous like this. It’s time to do something.

I need to tell her about my feelings. And for that I need someone’s help. Mira. She will help me. I am sure of it.

Jiya is a soft hearted person, even though she tries to act strong and fearless. She isn’t as tough as she pretends to be. She is just an innocent woman.

My woman.

I pull open my drawer and take out a picture of Jiya....the one I keep hidden here.

Whenever I feel angry, frustrated, or upset, I look at this picture. And just like magic, all my anger disappears.

I trace my fingers lightly over the photo, a small smile forming on my lips.

“Jiya Singh Rajvansh” I whisper. “Be ready to become Jiya Dev Malhotra”

Abhiraj’s POV

I sit at my desk, working on the files for our new men’s wear launch. My eyes move over the designs and details but my attention drifts for a moment.

I glance toward the couch, where Zar is sitting, his blue eyes fixed on the outside view through the glass wall. A small smile tugs at my lips as I watch him.

He has changed a lot. He looks happier than before. And I know the reason.....Mira and Jiya.

Having them around has brought a new light into his life. He finally has someone who showers him with love and attention. I am glad he has their company.

“Zar” I call out to him.

His ears perk up and he turns his head toward me before getting off the couch and walking over. His huge paws create a soft thudding sound against the floor.

He was so small when I first found him. Now he is huge and dangerous, a beast in his own right.

Ignoring his size, he jumps onto my lap, though he doesn’t fit perfectly anymore. Still he tries.

I chuckle, holding him as he looks up at me with his striking blue eyes.

“Are you happy?” I ask running my fingers through his fur.

He nods, his gaze never leaving mine.

“You found your mumma now huh?” I say with fake sadness. “You don’t give me enough of your time anymore”

His eyes soften, filled with silent apology.

I sigh dramatically. “It’s okay. Spend time with your mumma and aunty. They like you and want to be with you”

Hearing my words, Zar opens his mouth, showing me his sharp teeth in what looks like a smile.

I narrow my eyes playfully. “Are you noticing something Zar?” He tilts his head, waiting for me to continue.

“I’ve noticed something about your uncle” I smirk. “It seems like he has feelings for your aunty Jiya”

Zar blinks before nodding, confirming that he has noticed it too.

I lean back in my chair. “But I know him. He won’t open his mouth so easily. So, let’s wait until he finally admits his feelings”

Zar nods again before hopping off my lap.

Just as I pick up my file to start working again, I hear a knock on the door.

“Come in” I say, my voice cold and commanding.

The door opens and I lift my eyes from the screen. My gaze lands on her.

My woman.

Mira.

A warmth spreads through my chest as she steps inside.

“What are you doing here?” I ask standing up and walking toward her. She smiles at me and just like that, my entire office feels brighter.

Zar, of course, wastes no time. He runs to her immediately, rubbing his head against her hands. She laughs softly and begins stroking his fur, giving him all the attention he craves.

“I came to give a file to Varun sir” she says while scratching Zar’s head. “So, I thought I’d stop by to see my baby”

Her baby?

I press my tongue against the inside of my cheek, a familiar jealousy bubbling inside me.

Before she can react, I grab her wrist and pull her toward me. She gasps, her body crashing lightly against mine. Her eyes widen in shock as she stares up at me, confusion clear on her face.

"You only came to see him?" I ask my voice cold and sharp. Mira instantly understands what I mean.

A small, knowing smile appears on her lips as she places her delicate hand on my chest, her fingers playing with the buttons of my shirt.

"Yes, I came to see my boy only" she says, looking straight into my eyes.

This side of her....the way she teases me, plays with me......it’s something I could die for.

I narrow my eyes. "Didn't you want to see your boy’s father?"

She chuckles, tilting her head slightly. "What will I do seeing him?"

My grip on her waist tightens as I press our bodies closer together.

I reach out, gently tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. The moment my fingers brush against her skin, I feel her breath hitch. Her chest rises and falls a little faster.

"Do you remember what I asked you for this morning?" I ask my voice low.

Her brows furrow slightly as she looks at me, pretending to be confused Or maybe she really is.

"No I don’t remember anything" she says, her tone innocent. I smirk.

"Should I remind you, sweetheart?" I whisper and instantly, her cheeks turn a beautiful shade of red.

She looks down, trying to hide her flustered state But I won’t let her escape. I gently lift her chin, making her look into my eyes again.

"Please" I whisper, my voice softer than ever, my gaze pleading.

A sweet smile forms on her lips before she holds my face in her hands, her touch warm and delicate.

"But... Zar is here" she whispers back, stealing a glance at him.

I turn to look at Zar, who is watching us closely.

The moment our eyes meet, Zar immediately lifts his paws and covers his eyes. I chuckle. This white tiger is too smart.

"See?" I grin turning back to Mira. "He's not looking. Now please give me what I asked for."

Her lips press together as if she’s trying to hold back a laugh. But then, she takes a small step forward and stands on her toes, trying to reach me.

But she’s too short.

I smile at the height difference, my heart swelling with something I can’t even describe.

So, I do what I must.

I bend down, just a little, closing the distance between us. And then, slowly.....

Magic happens.

She presses her soft, feather-like lips against my cheek and my entire system stops.

My heartbeat is having its own concert, playing a wild rhythm in my chest, while some animals inside my stomach seem to be doing their dance practice.

She keeps her lips there for a few seconds, her warmth sinking into my skin, before slowly pulling away.

I look at her.....and damn.

Her entire face is red, redder than a ripe tomato. Her gaze is glued to the floor, avoiding my eyes, her shyness making her even more irresistible.

I lean in close, bringing my lips near her ear, my breath brushing against her skin.

"Don't be shy" My voice is soft, teasing. "I’m yours and you have every right to do whatever you want with me. And this kiss... this is just the beginning"

As I finish my words, I let my lips barely graze her earlobe. Her fingers clutch my shirt tightly, her whole body going stiff for a moment.

"Let me go... I have lots of work" she whispers, her voice barely above a breath. I smile loving her shy nature.

"The office belongs to you, my lady. What's the rush?" I say smoothly.

Finally, she lifts her gaze to meet mine, her big eyes still flustered.

"Mr. Rajvansh come out of your lover boy self" she scolds trying to sound strict but her red cheeks betray her.

A chuckle escapes my lips.

"Okay, Mrs. Rajvansh" I reply, my tone playful. "But my other cheek is still waiting to be worshipped by your lips"

She gasps, her eyes widening, before she quickly smacks my chest.

"Shameless!" she huffs before turning around and running out of my cabin.

I stand there, smiling like an idiot, my hand moving to the spot where she had kissed me.

A soft chuckle escapes my lips as I sit back in my chair, feeling lighter, happier.

But then my eyes fall on him. Zar.

He is still sitting on the ground his big paws covering his eyes. My boy is really something.

"Zar, she’s gone" I tell him. Slowly, he lowers his paws and looks around checking if the coast is clear.

I shake my head, laughing.

Still smiling.....brighter than the sun. I turn back to my work, the warmth of her lips still lingering on my skin.

Jiya's pov

"Please na, please help me!" I plead looking at Sahil with my best puppy eyes.

But he just shakes his head, his expression firm.

"No means no, Jiya" His voice is final. I sigh, dropping my shoulders dramatically.

"It’s okay, I’ll manage" I make my voice small, adding a hint of sadness. "I really thought you'd never say no to me... but here you are"

I sneak a glance at him.....yes! He’s already looking guilty. Time to push a little more.

"I’m not even asking for much! Just a simple hug when we leave work. I had so many big plans but I cut them down to just this one thing... and you still can’t help me? It’s okay. I’ll just ask someone else."

I turn around and slowly start walking out of the pantry, hoping, praying.....he’ll stop me.

And then.....

"Jiya!"

Yes! Hook, line and sinker!

I turn around, forcing my face to stay sad instead of smirking in victory. Sahil sighs, rubbing his forehead before finally nodding.

"Okay, fine. I’ll help you" I beam, my fake sadness disappearing in a second.

"Really? Thank you so much!" I grab his arm shaking it in excitement.

He raises an eyebrow. "But who exactly are we making jealous?" I blink, thinking fast.

"Uhh... just someone. I’ll tell you later" I wave it off quickly "But thank you for helping me!"

He chuckles and shakes his head before we both walk back to our desks. Sahil is my colleague and treat me as his sister.

As soon as we reach, Mira looks up from her laptop.

"Where were you guys?" she asks eyes narrowing slightly.

I shake my head casually. "Just talking about random things." I grab my bag since work hours are finally over.

"Let’s go" I say and we all walk toward the lift. Mira turns to Sahil.

"How’s your mother now?" she asks gently.

He smiles slightly. "She’s much better than before."

I nod, feeling relieved. His mom had been sick for the past two days, so it’s good to hear she’s improving.

As we step out of the lift and exit the company building, my eyes immediately land on him.

Dev.

He’s sitting inside his car, waiting for bhai. His window is rolled down, making it easy for me to see his face clearly.

His expression?

Cold. Unreadable.

But I know him. And I know that the moment Sahil hugs me.....that mask is going to crack.

"Okay, bye bye ladies" Sahil says, waving as he turns to leave.

I glare at him, making sure he understands. His steps pause and he sighs before walking toward me again.

He leans in no, wait he just stands close to me. That’s it? Seriously? In this generation how is he this innocent?

I roll my eyes. "At least put your hand on my waist."

He sighs, clearly not interested but places his hand lightly on my waist. It feels more like he’s barely touching me.

I step back, flashing him a bright smile.

"Bye bye, Sahil" I say a little louder than necessary.

I know he’s watching. I feel his gaze burning into me. Inside I’m dancing.

But then....

"What was that?" Mira asks her eyes narrowing at me.

Shit.

I blink at her innocently. "Nothing, just a friendly hug."

I turn quickly, heading towards the car. But Mira is Mira.

"Ohhh, since when did you start hugging guys?" she asks sliding into the seat beside me.

I scoff. "From today" I grin.

She smacks my shoulder. "Stop making him jealous." I just smile.

"If I don’t make him jealous, how will I know if he has any feelings for me?" She sighs, shaking her head.

"You won’t understand my plan" I pout.

We reach the mansion after a while. As soon as I step out of the car, I see Dev standing there with Bhai.

Bhai glances at Mira and they walk inside together. I follow behind them but I can feel Dev’s gaze on my back.

Burning. Intense.

He walks beside me and I finally look at him. His eyes. They’re red.

"Who was that boy?" His voice......dangerous. Cold. Colder than ice.

A shiver runs down my spine. Just hearing his tone makes my soul tremble.

But I can’t let it show. I lift my chin, acting brave.

"None of your business" I say flipping my hair before stepping into the mansion. Behind me I hear it.

A low, powerful growl.

I smirk mentally. My plan is working. But what I don’t know is.......

What he’ll do to me for playing with him. Because Dev Malhotra is not just any man. He is Dev Malhotra.

❤️🌎