31. Tension and Teasing

Author's POV

Sahil walked several steps forward, his eyes scanning the line of horses, and eventually stopped at the far corner. His choice caught everyone's attention, and they followed him to see what he had selected.

Ishika, curious, leaned in to take a closer look. Standing before them was a thin, frail-looking horse. Its fur was dirty, its ribs slightly visible, and its overall appearance screamed neglect. Despite its condition, the horse's gaze was sharp and defiant, as though it looked down on the humans around it with disdain.

For a moment, Ishika studied the horse's expression, and then a thought struck her. This gaze... it's just like Sahil's. She couldn't help but chuckle softly at the resemblance.

Her laughter didn't go unnoticed. Sahil turned his head slightly, casting her a pointed glance.

Ishika quickly stifle her laugh, cleared her throat, and commented, "This horse doesn't seem that great, Sahil. Are you sure about this one?"

Monika, who had been standing nearby, chimed in, her tone more analytical. "The breed is decent," she said, squinting at the horse, "but it looks like it's been starving for days."

At that moment, the owner of the horse stepped forward, his expression a mix of hesitation and guilt. "That's right," he admitted. "This horse has a bad temper. We haven't fed it for two days because it's too stubborn to cooperate." He looked at Sahil nervously and asked, "Are you sure you want this one?"

Sahil didn't answer immediately. Instead, he gestured toward the horse and said calmly, "Bring it out so I can have a closer look."

Ishika's lips twitched in amusement. These two are so alike, she thought, glancing between Sahil and the horse. They understand each other with just one look.

The owner hesitated but eventually complied. However, dragging the horse out proved to be a challenge. The animal refused to budge, planting its hooves firmly on the ground. The workers had to practically drag it forward, and even then, it resisted every step of the way.

Watching the scene unfold, Ishika couldn't help but think with a touch of amusement, This horse seems to have a temper that matches Sahil's stubbornness. It was more of an observation than a judgment, as she noted how both the horse and Sahil shared a certain reluctance to be controlled.

The owner, visibly frustrated, finally managed to get the horse out of its pen. He wiped the sweat from his brow and muttered nervously, "Sahil, this horse probably won't even make it onto the track." Then, turning to Dhruv, he added with a pointed glance, "Mr. Singhania's horse over there is much better. It's strong, well-trained, and reliable."

The message was clear: Don't pick this horse to compete against a champion. If you lose, don't blame me.

But Sahil ignored the owner's thinly veiled warning. His voice was firm as he gave his next order. "Remove everything except the reins, and loosen them a bit."

The owner's eyes widened in shock. "What? That's too dangerous!" he protested.

Sahil turned his sharp gaze on him, saying nothing. The silence was enough to make the owner's lips twitch in frustration. With a resigned sigh, he nodded at his workers to follow Sahil's instructions.

As the workers approached to remove the restraints, the horse snorted and stomped its hooves, making everyone step back cautiously. Ishika couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and curiosity. Sahil's calm demeanor in the face of the horse's defiance was intriguing.

What is he thinking? she wondered. Why this horse?

But one thing was clear-Sahil and the horse were more alike than anyone dared to admit. Both were stubborn, defiant, and unwilling to bow to anyone's expectations.

As soon as the restraints were removed, the horse shook its mane and stood up from its original position, its defiant eyes scanning the crowd. Ishika, amused and curious, wondered if Sahil had some prior knowledge of this horse. While the crowd offered a few tentative compliments, the horse seemed to deliberately oppose their expectations, lifting its front hooves and pawing at the ground, as if challenging the very atmosphere around it.

Sahil, however, remained calm. His movements were swift and precise, almost as if he had anticipated the horse's every move. In one fluid motion, he mounted the horse with such skill that it left everyone around him in shock.

The crowd gasped as Sahil settled into the saddle, his posture confident and unwavering, even as the horse began to buck and twist, trying to throw him off.

Ishika's heart skipped a beat.

Monika immediately called out, "Mr. Malhotra!"

The horse, clearly irritated, tried to fling him off from every possible angle, but Sahil's grip on the reins was firm, his body adjusting seamlessly with the horse's movements. His reactions were so quick and fluid that it seemed as though he and the horse were in a silent, synchronized dance. Each time the horse attempted to dislodge him, Sahil skillfully countered, redirecting its energy and maintaining control. The horse's frustrated neighs echoed through the arena, but Sahil remained unfazed, his expression calm and focused.

After a series of failed attempts to unseat him, the horse seemed to resign itself to its fate. It spun around, trying to find an opening to throw its rider, but each of its efforts was skillfully defused by Sahil's steady hand and expert timing. The horse's movements grew more erratic, its frustration mounting, until a final, exasperated neigh filled the air.

Ishika stood in front of the crowd, her eyes fixed on the scene unfolding before her. There, on the horse, sat Sahil-composed, confident, and in complete control. He held the reins with one hand, his other arm relaxed by his side, displaying an unruffled demeanor as if he were simply enjoying a leisurely ride. His calmness contrasted sharply with the horse's wild energy, and it was clear that Sahil was completely unfazed by the animal's attempts to resist him. As he looked up, his gaze was steady and composed, almost regal in its confidence. He seemed like a king on his throne, effortlessly commanding the situation.

Ishika's heart skipped a beat as she watched him. There was something undeniably captivating about the way he handled the horse-his skill, his confidence, and the way he remained unaffected by the chaos around him. She couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration, even awe, as she watched him.

The crowd, too, was impressed. Applause broke out in the arena, echoing around the space as they acknowledged Sahil's remarkable skill. With a final, graceful movement, Sahil dismounted the horse with ease, his movements fluid and precise. The horse, now calm, stood still as if resigned to its fate, and Sahil stood tall beside it, his presence commanding respect.

The owner was allowed to bring some horse feed but was only permitted to give half a portion. Initially, the horse refused to eat. However, when Sahil approached again and loosened the reins slightly, the horse finally relented. The spectators enjoyed the scene, their attention soon shifting to Dhruv's horse.

Dhruv's horse was a large, chestnut-colored beauty-sleek and unburdened by extra weight. A strikingly attractive woman was riding it, her commanding presence impossible to ignore as they circled the arena. Ishika couldn't help but admire the elegance of the scene.

"Sahil, are you sure about this horse? What about the rider?" Dhruv asked, his tone carrying a hint of amusement.

Everyone's gaze turned to Sahil, but before he could respond, Monika stepped in confidently, her chin held high and an air of pride surrounding her. "Mr. Malhotra, if you don't mind, I'll ride this horse for you," she said.

Sahil remained calm, his gaze unwavering as he replied, "Go ahead."

The horse resisted as Monika approached, clearly unaccustomed to being ridden by a stranger. Sahil, however, expertly held the reins, his calm demeanor exerting control over the animal.

Monika swiftly mounted the horse, her movements quick and practiced, giving the horse no chance to protest. Her riding skills were impressive, and she handled the horse with ease. The spectators cheered, praising her boldness.

Taking the reins from Sahil, Monika gently tapped the horse's belly and smoothly exited the arena. At the same time, Dhruv's horse and rider followed closely behind.

The group then moved to the observation deck, which offered a clear view of the racetrack and the dozen participating horses. Ishika, Sahil, and Dhruv sat together, while the rest of the group took seats on the opposite side.

Dhruv began, his tone laced with provocation. "Since this is a bet, let's clarify the stakes first." He smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief as he addressed Sahil. "If I win, be a good sport and return my woman to me, Mr. Malhotra."

Ishika closed her eyes briefly, irritation rising within her. She didn't want to be reduced to a mere pawn in their wager. Her expression grew stern as she considered leaving the place altogether.

Just then, Sahil's firm, deep voice broke through her thoughts. "For the last time, I haven't taken your woman," he said calmly.

Then, turning to Ishika, he raised his hand and gently tucked a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. His gaze softened as it locked onto hers.

"Only my woman is next to me," he added, his voice steady and resolute.

Ishika's eyes widened, her heart fluttering at his words.

"Then perhaps," Sahil said, his tone casual yet cutting, "you could have her admit she's yours. If she does, I'll let her go."

His words infuriated Ishika, but she kept her expression neutral.

Dhruv picked up a bottle of mineral water, took a deliberate sip, and replied with a smirk, "Forget it. If you don't want to let her go, that's fine. I don't lack anything. After the race, I'll just ask her for a reward."

There was a mocking ambiguity in his tone, and though Ishika's face remained calm, anger simmered within her. Sahil's expression, however, remained impassive.

After a tense moment, Sahil finally spoke. "You don't lack anything, Dhruv, but I do."

Dhruv raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what do you want?"

Sahil's lips pressed into a thin line as he remained silent, his gaze shifting to Ishika. His intense scrutiny made her uncomfortable, and she averted her eyes, her heart inexplicably racing. When she glanced back, their gazes locked, and she couldn't help but recall his earlier image-sitting on the horse like a king, exuding an air of authority and majesty.

Lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice when Sahil reached out. His hand gently but firmly moved her closer to him. Ishika gasped, instinctively trying to pull away, but he held her in place. He leaned in, brushing his lips lightly against her cheek in a fleeting kiss-soft as a whisper, barely grazing her lips.

"Sahil..." she murmured, stunned.

He pulled back, his fingers threading through her hair in a lingering motion. Then, with a casual glance at Dhruv, he said, "I want you to disappear."

Dhruv chuckled, his gaze shifting to Ishika. His smirk deepened as he replied, "If I lose, I'll leave immediately."

Ishika, however, wasn't fooled by Sahil's actions. She knew the kiss had been deliberate-a provocative display meant to stake his claim in front of Dhruv. Yet, despite her awareness, she couldn't stop the rush of warmth to her face.

Closing her eyes briefly, she tried to steady herself. But the warmth quickly dissipated as a memory surfaced: the night she had been chased by those men, desperately calling Sahil for help, only to find him having dinner with Shanaya.

Her anger flared, replacing any lingering warmth with a cold resolve. Ishika calmly stepped back, adjusting her hair as if nothing had happened. Without sparing him a glance, she turned her attention to the horse racing field, her eyes cold and distant.

Ishika's heart raced, not from the kiss but from the sheer audacity of both men. She wasn't some prize to be fought over, and yet here she was, caught in the middle of their silent war.

Beside her, Sahil's jaw tightened. He noticed her change in demeanor, the icy wall she had erected between them. His lips pressed into a thin line, and the cold fury in his eyes surpassed anything he had directed at Dhruv.

The announcer's voice echoed across the arena, signaling the start of the race. The horses lined up at the starting point, their riders adjusting their positions. Monika was among them, her posture poised and determined.

As the signal was given, the horses surged forward, their powerful strides kicking up clouds of dust. The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement palpable. Dhruv's horse darted ahead, its chestnut coat gleaming under the sunlight. Monika wasn't far behind, pushing hard to catch up.

From the observation deck, Ishika's eyes were glued to the race. Despite her inner turmoil, she couldn't help but admire the raw power and grace of the horses.

The crowd's roar grew louder. The race was nearing its climax. Monika and Dhruv's rider were neck and neck, their horses straining to gain the lead.

"Looks like it's going to be a close one," Dhruv remarked, his tone casual but his eyes sharp.

Sahil didn't reply. His focus remained on the track, his jaw set in determination.

Monika dressed in riding attire, she had a stunning figure and exuded confidence. Approaching the end of the line, she released the reins of her horse without hesitation and boldly jumped off.

Everyone was shocked, except Sahil, who leaned back calmly and took a sip of tea. Monika tumbled several times, but she didn't wait for the medical staff to arrive. She got up on her own.

Facing the camera, despite her minor injuries, she smiled radiantly and blew a kiss. Behind her, the horse shot forward like an arrow, overtaking its competitors and charging toward the finish line.

The entire arena erupted in excitement. Ishika couldn't help but admire Monika. She was indeed a confident and bold woman. If she were a man, she might not be able to resist such a free-spirited person.

The crowd cheered and whistled as the horse crossed the finish line. The announcer declared Monika the winner, and the applause echoed throughout the arena.

Dhruv smiled, looked at Sahil, and said, "I'll accept my defeat. Tonight, I'll leave it to you, my friend."

Sahil glanced at him and replied, "Do you need me to arrange transportation for you?"

"No need. I'll say a few words and leave." Dhruv placed a hand on the armrest of Ishika's chair and leaned slightly forward.

"We're friends now, aren't we?" he asked, right in front of Sahil.

Ishika remained silent for a moment, still upset about how he and Sahil had dragged her into their cold war. However, she couldn't ignore the fact that he had saved her life.

"Yes, we are," she finally replied.

Dhruv smiled and stood up. With his hands in his pockets, he looked at her and said, "Remember to invite me for a meal to thank me properly."

"Of course," Ishika said with a faint smile.

After Dhruv left, Ishika turned around, only to find that Sahil had already left the arena. She headed to the parking lot, settled into the backseat of the car, and leaned against the door.

Sahil looked at her through the rear view mirror. He lit a cigarette and rested his arm on the window but said nothing. Ishika felt anxious under his gaze and endured the silence until they reached the mansion. The moment the car stopped, she quickly opened the door and got out.

The living room was empty. Sahil sank into the sofa, smoking continuously. His tone was sharp as he asked, "What were you doing with him at the club today? Do I need to remind you that, in the eyes of the public, we are still husband and wife? This so-called partnership exists only because I pity you!"

Ishika froze on the spot. Sahil had a way of making people feel utterly inadequate with just a few words.

"Let me remind you again-you're Mrs. Malhotra. Behave yourself!" he stated, his voice carrying a clear warning.

"I know. You don't have to remind me," she replied, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

Sahil sneered. "I see no sign of you being clear-headed. Yet, you still befriended Dhruv."

Ishika took a deep breath, recalling why she had chosen to befriend Dhruv. She also remembered her miserable state just the day before. Yet, he had the audacity to question her. Suppressing the bitterness in her heart, she replied, "I befriended him because he's a nice person-unlike you."

Sahil extinguished his cigarette in the ashtray, leaned forward, and sneered, " It starts with friendship and with time, you can go even further." He then further added, " work hard and maybe when the contract expires, you can become Mrs. Singhania. "

Ishika furrowed her brows and retorted, "I have no such ambition. Experiencing the life of a wife once is more than enough for me."

They faced each other in tense silence.

Ishika turned and, before leaving, said, "You're the one not taking this contract seriously. If I befriend Dhruv, it's wrong, but what about you? You have so many female friends. Wouldn't people question our relationship because of that?"

Without waiting for his reply, she walked to the guest room to sleep, not wanting to see his face any longer.

***

Two days Later,

Ishika was in a cab on her way home after school when her phone buzzed. The screen displayed Kavita Malhotra's name-Sahil's aunt. She answered the call hesitantly, and Kavita's sharp voice cut through the line.

"What did you do, Ishika?"

Ishika frowned, caught off guard by the sudden accusation. "What do you mean, Auntie?" she asked, her mind racing to figure out what Kavita was referring to.

There was a brief pause before Kavita's tone turned firm and authoritative. "Come to the mansion immediately," she demanded.

Confused and uneasy, Ishika hesitated before asking, "Do I need to come alone?"

"Yes," Kavita replied curtly. "Sahil is busy with his meeting, so come by yourself."

As the call ended, Ishika's thoughts spiraled. What happened now? Do they know I've been working outside? Panic began to creep in. No, no, it can't be.

Even though it was the 21st century, the rules of the Malhotra family had remained unchanged. When Ishika had married into the family, she had the protection of Sahil's grandmother. However, Grandma was a strict follower of the family's traditions. Whenever someone made a mistake, they were required to kneel in front of the ancestors' photos as a form of punishment.

When Ishika shared this with Aditi, her friend didn't believe her. She thought Ishika was just telling a story. According to the family servant, when Sahil was a child, he had once been kneeled for an entire day as punishment for disobedience.

Despite her growing anxiety, she directed the cab driver to change the route and head toward the Malhotra's old mansion, bracing herself for whatever awaited her there.

***

Sahil was coming out of the meeting when his assistant, Rajat, informed him, "Ishika has been called by Kavita Malhotra to your grandmother's mansion. All the relatives have gone there as well."

Sahil furrowed his brows and immediately tried calling Ishika, but her phone rang without an answer. Turning to Rajat, he said firmly, "I'm going there. Give me the car keys."

Rajat quickly handed him the keys, and Sahil wasted no time heading to the mansion.

______________________________

End of the chapter.

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