Zayaan's POV,
Her giggles reverberated through the empty expanse of the office floor as she darted around like a young girl, her bare feet dancing on the smooth surface.

"Catch me, Zayaan... you're way too slow!" She playfully taunted, glancing back at me with her captivating dimpled smile, her hair trailing behind her like a cascade.

"Wait up, Jaan. Once I catch you, I won't let you escape!" I chuckled, trailing closely behind her.

She twirled gracefully, the fabric of her knee-length frock swaying like a blooming flower, before gracefully swinging open the door to my office, disappearing inside.

Stepping in, I found her perched on my desk, one knee elegantly crossed over the other, her finger beckoning me with an alluring gesture. I strode into the dimly lit room, locking the door behind me, drawn into her open embrace. Her scent enveloped me as she held me tightly.

"I love you, Zayaan... I love you more than words can say," she whispered, her warm breath caressing my ear.

A rush of emotion surged through me, a tear glistening in my eye. "And I love you, my Jaan... my Inarah... beyond measure. My love for you knows no bounds."

A soft, melodious giggle escaped her lips. "I'm well aware, my love..."

Lifting my head from the gentle curve of her neck, I met her gaze, her honey-colored eyes shimmering with affection.

"Kiss me, my Love."

"With pleasure, Jaan."

Gazing at her entrancing features, a chuckle escaped my lips before I captured her mouth in a tender, passionate kiss.

Suddenly, her gasp pierced the air, her body convulsing in an alarming manner. Bewildered, I pulled away, my eyes widening as I beheld the horror in her expression.

"Z...Z.. Zayaan...why?" Tears cascaded down her cheeks, her blood-stained hand reaching out to touch my face, leaving crimson streaks in its wake.

My heart pounded with dread. Confusion knotted my thoughts as my gaze dropped, and I recoiled in shock. A gun rested in my trembling hand, its cold muzzle pressed against her abdomen.

I shot her.

Tremors coursed through my body as the gruesome object slipped from my grasp, clattering onto the floor. My eyes flickered back to my beloved Inarah, agony etched into her features as her body rapidly became awash in a pool of crimson.

"Z... Zayaan...why?"

"I... Inarah... I'm sorry... please... please forgive me..." My voice quivered, an endless mantra of remorse.

"Just like Papa," she whispered, her voice faint.

"No... NO!"

With faltering steps, I approached her, my trembling fingers brushing her neck and stomach, now stained with her life's essence.

"Just like Papa... you've taken my life too, Zayaan..." Her voice was but a feeble whimper.

"No... no, Jaan..." Desperation clawed at me as I reached out, but there was nothing I could do. Her blood continued to flow, staining everything in its path.

"No! INARAH... NO..."

"

NO! INARAH!!!"

My body jolted upright, drenched in sweat, and I struggled to catch my breath.

"Zayaan, what's wrong?" Inarah's voice reached me from beside me.

Taking in my surroundings, I realized I wasn't in the office. I inspected my hands, finding no trace of blood. I was in my bedroom, in my own bed, with Inarah by my side. She switched on the bedside lamp, casting a gentle glow on the scene.

It was just a dream-a nightmarish one at that!

"Zayaan?" Inarah's hand rested on my shoulder, her expression filled with concern.

"Oh, thank God!" I exclaimed, pulling her into a tight embrace as relief washed over me. "You're safe. Inarah!"

"Did you have a bad dream, my Love?" Her voice, laced with innocence, was muffled against my chest.

"Yes," I whispered, slowly steadying my breathing.

"Um... Zayaan... I can't breathe."

I glanced down, immediately releasing her and looking away, feeling flustered.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes," I muttered.

My greatest fear was causing harm to the one person who reminded me of my humanity, potentially erasing any trace of it. What if history repeated itself? What if I harmed Inarah? The thought of losing her was unbearable. Without her, I would be a hollow shell, devoid of purpose or meaning.

In a sudden gesture, she leaned in and kissed my cheek, interrupting my thoughts.

"Inarah, stop!" I snapped irritably.

What if my love hurted her? What if my mere presence endangered her? The questions gnawed at me.

"I love you, Zayaan."

I closed my eyes, trying to shut out the bittersweet truth.

"Why?" I muttered, gripping my hair, my head bowed as my voice wavered. "Why do you love me? I'm a monster. I'll ruin you too. Run away, Inarah... don't love me."

Resting her hands and chin on my shoulder, she persisted, "I'll always love you, Zayaan. Even if you were to end my life right now, even if I were to become a wandering spirit, my love for you would endure."

"Why, damn it!" I burst out, sitting up and gazing helplessly into her eyes.

Her response was a soft smile, her beauty heartbreaking in its simplicity. She cupped my face and planted a kiss on my nose.

"Because... you were meant for me, and I for you. Our destinies are intertwined, bound by love."

I swallowed the lump in my throat as her words pierced my heart.

"Destiny?" I laughed bitterly, clutching my aching chest. "What a tragically ironic destiny."

"Hm? What?" she inquired.

Shaking my head, I fought back tears. "Never mind. Just go to sleep for now. We can discuss your MBA admissions in the morning."

"Oh, right! I forgot," she said, playfully tapping her own head. "By the way, hubby, something's poking my leg down here. Is that your phone?" Her voice held innocence.

Puzzled, I looked down, only to realize her knee was slightly pressing against my groin.

She gasped, realization dawning.

Fuck!

"Is that... your..."

Swiftly, I lay back down, turning away from her.

****
Inarah's POV,
That day in the office, he kissed me like he owned me but now, he's again the same distant and strange with me. He doesn't even take me in his arms to sleep like before.

What's more? I've started my second stage of training that too with the ever most annoying and frustrating Twitches. And man isn't it fun?! Atleast for one of us. They're putting all thier might into bullying and torturing me.

"Men might be physically stronger than women but they have a lot of weak points. Like, anywhere around the face..." One of them, I can't even differenciate if Tina or Mina, started explaining and took her chance to poke my eyes but I leaped back right on time. She smirked at me but her evil twin hooked her leg with my ankle as I fell down on my butt.

"Why don't you sit down princess?" They both said in unison giggling as I glared at them rubbing my behind.
Dying at the hands of an enemy might be better than this torture!

And she began showing and explaining sacrificing one of the gang members as a model.

{A/n: it's easier with pictures 😉}

Just as she was about to kick him where the sun never shines, he backed off, cowering in fear.

"No, no didi. Please, I'm not even married yet!"

"Hey, that's enough! I understand," I stated as I stood up.

"You can leave. Thank you so much for your help," I conveyed with a smile.

He nodded gratefully and hastily ran away.

One of the girls let out a sigh.

"You can't be so soft with them. Your enemies won't be teenage skinny guys, but tough, strong, muscular opponents, 100 times more trained and experienced than you. When you confront them, you need to possess the power to annihilate them."

"Geez! What's with you and men?" I inquired, pulling a face.

"Your mind needs to be strong, and you must learn to channel your rage into your strength," the other one added.

"Turning rage into strength? How do I do that?"

I rarely get angry.

However, I immediately regretted asking as they exchanged a knowing look, shared a sinister smile, and then directed their gaze at me.

"We'll assist you," they said in unison, and I gulped.

Zayaan's POV,
"Ow...ow... gently. That stings!" Inarah whimpered as I applied the ointment to her bruised ankle.

"Those girls are seriously wicked! By the time my training's done with them, they might as well have me roasted alive!" She grumbled, her lips forming a pout.

I couldn't help but chuckle at her adorable expression.

"Don't you dare laugh!" She scolded, playfully swatting my arm.

"Relax, Inarah. It's part of the training. In our time, we've broken more bones and strained more muscles than you can imagine," I explained as I placed a band-aid on her elbow.

She gasped dramatically. "Broken bones? Oh my God. Please, no! I don't want to break anything. Mommy!!! I want to go home!"

I shook my head, grinning at her antics. She really knows how to...

"All done!" I announced, finishing up the first aid.

"Alright, that makes it 8 cheek kisses in total now."

I gave her a questioning look. "What are you talking about?"

She nodded innocently. "I have 8 bruises, so that's 8 kisses. Come on, Hubby, pay up. We had a deal." With that, she closed her eyes and turned her cheek towards me.

As much as I'd love to...

"We never agreed to any such deal!" I raised an eyebrow at her.

She let out an exasperated sigh. "Hubby, you're the CEO of The Qureshi Group! All agreements come with a tiny asterisk of terms and conditions. This is one of those instances."

I rolled my eyes. "How far are you going to take these terms and conditions?"

She flashed me a mischievous smile. "Who knows?" she shrugged.

I rose from the couch, intending to leave.

"No!" she protested.

"Oh, come on!" She trailed after me, much like she used to when we were kids.

"No means no, Inarah! I'm not playing along." I stated, entering the kitchen. To my surprise, she followed me there as well.

"Please...please...please," she repeated in quick succession.

"Quit hounding me."

"After I get my kisses."

I turned to face her, and there she was, pouting again. It's baffling how adorable she can be.

I grabbed a bottle of ice-cold water and playfully pressed it against her cheek, prompting a yelp. Unable to hide my smile, I headed out to the lawn.

"I'll get my kisses!" She shouted after me, her voice echoing. I waved back without turning around, determined to keep my resolve intact.

Inarah's POV,
I huffed, crossing my arms tightly across my chest as my husband left me behind, alone.

"Trouble in paradise?" Asad's voice broke through.

"No! It's just that your boss is an insufferable jerk! Our three-month anniversary is just around the corner, and he's still so distant. Ugh!" I grumbled, stomping my foot in frustration.

"Tsk tsk tsk! Don't put all the blame on him, my beautiful friend. Your behavior around him doesn't exactly scream 'romance.' How can he feel attracted to you?" He affectionately patted my head.

I shot him a glare, though deep down, I knew he had a point.

"Then what do you suggest? It's not like I can change the fact that I'm naturally cute," I pouted.

He chuckled softly. "Ah, Inarah... your innocence is endearing. But do you truly believe that cuteness is the key to a man's heart? No, my dear! You and Zayaan are adults now, not to mention you're married. It's time to step into the world of grown-ups. Seduce him, do this... and that..." He made suggestive gestures, and I cringed in response.

"Ugh! Are you getting to the point?"

He let out a knowing laugh. "You see where I'm going with this?"

I pondered his words for a moment, and then a mischievous idea struck me like a lightning bolt.

"Actually, yes..."

Six days later.

"Hey, guys!"

"Well, hello there, bhabhi," Wafeeq greeted as all the guys gathered in the living room.

"Could you all do me a favor?"

"Absolutely, bhabhi. Just name it," Uddhav responded.

"Well, you see, tomorrow marks our three-month anniversary, and I have a little surprise planned for Zayaan. So... I was wondering if you could grant us the entire villa for just tonight? Please."

"I see what's going on here..." Uddhav teased, causing my cheeks to burn crimson.

"Of course, bhabhi. We'll vanish like shadows. You need not worry. Not a soul will set foot on this property until tomorrow evening. You two enjoy yourselves, okay?" Wafeeq grinned, giving me a playful thumbs-up.

****
Zayaan's POV,
I was working in my cabin when I recieved Inarah's text.

-- Come home early today, hubby. I have a surprise for you--

I smiled wondering what she's upto this time?

Uddhav's POV,

Following bhabhi's request, we all vacated the house, and I decided to go on patrol. Perhaps, I might catch a glimpse of her...

The one who has captured my heart.

After wandering for hours, I finally spotted her. The sight of her from a distance caused my heart to race, but it plummeted almost immediately when I realized she was standing on the sidewalk... for business.

The mere thought of other men ogling her in those revealing clothes or daring to touch her ignited a fierce rage within me.

I walked towards her, and as our eyes met, her gaze widened. A blush crept across her cheeks, and I couldn't help but remember... how I kissed her. I, too, felt a bit flustered now.

"Aree Uddhav Saheb..." The other girl beside her sang out, her gaze rife with lust. Ignoring her completely, I gestured for her to leave.

"Saheb?" The girl said in a soft voice, causing my breath to hitch as we locked eyes.

A honking car disrupted our moment. Irritated, I shot the driver a glare. He was calling out to My girl. Without hesitation, I grasped her arm and pulled her closer, a warning glare directed at the man. As soon as he caught sight of me, his hand froze in terror.

"Aree Saheb, mai hu na. Mujhe le chalo! (Oh sir! I'm right here. Take me with you!)" The other girl flirtatiously enticed, revealing her boobs more than necessary. So he called for her, and she sped away in his car.

"S..saheb!" I realized I was still holding her in my protective embrace.

"Oh... right." I released her hesitantly.

"So...uh... how have you been?" I blurted out.

"Good... and you, Saheb?"

"Great!" I responded, my hands buried in my pockets.

An awkward silence settled between us.

Suddenly, rain began to pour, and without thinking, I grabbed her wrist, and together, we sought refuge. We stood beneath the awning of a closed shop, leaning against the shutter.

She wiped her arms and face with her hands, and I followed suit. Our eyes met, and we both burst into laughter. My heart raced, the sound of her giggles filling my ears.

"Mumbai and its rains!" She exclaimed.

"Tell me about it." I shook my head, sharing a moment of camaraderie.

"Um... saheb. Thank you for helping me that day. And I'm so sorry for being so rude to you," she apologized, guilt in her gaze.

"If it had been anyone else, I might have snapped his neck for talking to me like that, but... how could I be angry at such a beautiful girl?" I said, locking my gaze with her brown eyes. A blush swept across her face, and she looked away, but I couldn't help but smile.

"Do you know who I am?"

She nodded.

I grinned. "No wonder you apologized."

She giggled.

"I didn't catch your name."

"They call me Pinky."

"Alright, but I meant your real name."

She looked at me as if I had asked for her kidney or something equally precious. "No one... has ever asked me for my name before."

I stepped closer, our proximity causing her to gasp. "I'm asking for it," I whispered, gently tucking a damp strand of hair behind her ear.

"Gitanjali!" She breathed.

I smiled, brushing my thumb against her flushed cheek. "Gitanjali," her name flowed effortlessly from my lips, as if it had been waiting for me to say it. "...what a beautiful name."

"Do you react this way around other men too?" I inquired, my tone laced with possessiveness.

"No, saheb... just you," she admitted, her breath hitching.

A satisfied smile tugged at my lips. "That's my girl."

Her eyes fluttered closed as my lips met hers...

****
Zayaan's POV,
"Happy anniversary, my love!" Inarah exclaimed, enveloping me in her arms, causing me to adjust our balance slightly. I couldn't help but smile at her spontaneous surprise, but I swiftly adopted a serious expression as she turned her gaze toward me.

"Anniversary?" I feigned confusion, masking my awareness that today marked our three-month wedding anniversary. I had even prepared a gift for my beloved Jaan.

"Today is our three-month anniversary! Did you forget, you meanie!" Her hands found their way to her hips as she chided me.

"It's only been three months," I responded calmly, maintaining the act.

She rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "Alright, fine! Forget it! Just tell me, how do I look?"

She began to twirl gracefully, showcasing the elegant long gown she was wearing.

More beautiful than words can describe my Angel!

"You look ok."

But I don't want anyone else to see how sexy she looks.

Her smile faded. "Oh well, you take what you can get," she shrugged, though her smile returned as she enthusiastically linked her arm with mine.

"Freshen up, but use the other room, okay? Then come to the backyard right away. I'll be waiting for you, my love," she instructed, leading me towards Asad's room.

****

I emerged wearing a porcelain and black silk tuxedo, complete with an oversized white bow tie that she insisted on. Honestly, what's with the tuxedo fixation among these mother-daughter pairs? I'd never willingly wear something like this in public. If the guys caught sight of me, I'd surely become the butt of their jokes!... but then I realized, there was no one at home.

My eyes widened as I saw the backyard decorated with lightings and lanterns. There was a table set in the centre.

"A romantic candlelight dinner for two, please," my angel declared as she approached me from a distance. Bathed in the golden light, she truly resembled an angel, her milky skin radiating and her dress sparkling like tiny stars.

I stood there, utterly entranced by her presence, momentarily forgetting everything else. As she drew closer, she took both my hands into hers.

"Zayaan... you look so handsome right now that I forgot how to breathe," she smiled.

Unconsciously, I let out the shaky breath I hadn't realized I was holding. She leaned closer to my ear and whispered, "Won't you pull the chair for me, my Love?"

Rapidly blinking, I looked away, flustered. Clearing my throat, I managed to regain my composure and pulled out the chair for her. She gracefully took her seat, and I settled in beside her.

"Do you like it? I've been planning this for three days."

Oh, Jaan!

"Hm. It's good," I simply replied, struggling to contain the depth of my feelings.

She blushed, causing my heart to skip a beat. How much more would she blush if I were to reveal just how much I loved her efforts? Or how breathtaking she appeared to me?

A waiter, elegantly dressed in a black tuxedo, placed our entrées before us, accompanied by the sweet melodies of a violinist playing a romantic tune.

She watched me, her eyes shining as she rested her chin on her palm while I ate.

"What's on your mind?" I asked softly.

Her touch graced my face, and I froze under its tenderness. Our eyes locked, and she spoke, her words binding me to her gaze.

"It brings me so much joy to have you sitting beside me like this... as my husband. I've dreamt of these moments, and now they're finally becoming reality. It's as if..." Her eyes shimmered, threatening tears that didn't fall.
"...my heart might burst from this happiness." She beamed.

In that moment, I longed to kiss her radiant eyes and hold her close, my heart brimming with affection. Instead, she hugged me herself, warming my heart even further.

"I love you so much, Zayaan. I just wish you'd love me even a fraction of that," she murmured.

A fraction? My love for you knows no bounds, my Jaan. If only I could share that truth with you.

"Would you dance with me?" She inquired, standing up and extending her hand towards me.

"You know I despise dancing!"

"Oh, come on, please! Don't let this dress go to waste. Besides, it's only the two of us now."

Resigned, I gave in and moved to the side as she played music on her phone. The waitstaff and violinist had discreetly departed, leaving us in blissful privacy, and my unease grew. We were completely alone, and she looked captivating. What if I lost control?

With her head nestled against my chest, one hand in mine and the other resting on my shoulder, and my hand secure around her waist, we swayed to the rhythm of a slow dance. Her fragrance enveloped me, an intoxicating blend of heaven and earth.

"Did you like the surprise, my Love?"

"Hm," I replied, closing my eyes as I rested my chin atop her head.

"I'm glad. Although, this was merely the preview. The real surprise awaits you in the bedroom," she giggled, her face turning a shade of crimson that was impossible to ignore.

What is she planning?

___________________________________