******

Hearing the roar of laughter I guess Virat sensed something and came down.

Virat's bhabhi told him about the incident and he gave me a stern look.

He apologized to Sachin and told me that he was a top player of the Indian cricket team.

I felt like a scape goat. Why do I keep doing things that often than not land me into troubles?

I stood still and Virat came and stood beside me.

I said sorry and he shot a stern glance at me.

He held my hand and took me to his room.

He began speaking "Are you even an Indian? Atleast don't you have any common sense to find out things before getting married?" he shouted.

I froze for a moment. I am not used to people being harsh on me.

"What's wrong Virat? This is not a real marriage! If it was then I would think about things like background checking and impressing" I spoke trying to be equally loud.

"Wow! Do I have to remind your bloody tiny brain that you will have to be extra cautious in case of contract marriages. Why the hell you think I am paying you?" he roared.

That's the moment I felt like my self respect was ripped apart.

"Well! Mr.Kohli if that was the case I guess you have a responsibility to plan before hand and inform me as well" I spoke.

He was in no mood to give up so he punched the wall and I could see his hand was bleeding.

He left the room and I stood still. I felt I had no right to sit anywhere because everything felt strange. Everything in that room belonged to him. I did not want to crumble my left over self respect by using his things.

People downstairs believe that we are a couple in love.

"I don't care about whatever this man thinks. All I am here for is my mom. That's should be my only concern and priority" I said to myself.

***************
Two hours later
***************

I woke up on a soft comfortable bed. My hands were on two smiley pillows. I remember sitting by the window side and I might have drifted to sleep.

But how did I reach onto the bed?

As I was lost in thoughts I saw Virat comming inside. I quickly tried to get up from the bed but he began speaking.

Erica! I am really sorry. People who know me are quite aware of my anger management issues. I get very irritated quickly. I think I was very rude to you in the morning and I promise I will try my best to be polite.

My eyes were fixed on him. Few hours ago he was spitting fire like a dragon and now look at this gentleman. How can I not be angry on him? I should say something right.

I spoke "That's fine Virat! I am not used to people shouting at me. Besides I will try to be more responsible. I am sorry for embarrassing you" I spoke.

He inched closer to me and sat beside me on the bed. Sipping some coffee he asked " So we are good right? Tell me something about yourself".

I never sat so close to a guy in such a private space. Besides I don't know how to react in such situations. I was terribly affected by his presence and I can't let him know. Shit! I want him to like me. I mean I want him to be awed by me. I want a good impression.

He tapped my shoulder and raised his eyebrow. The eyebrow thing is too dangerous. I am falling real bad for that.

" I ...I am Erica Peiterson! I am a student of finance from the University of Queensland Australia" I managed to speak.

"That's impressive! Do you want some coffee?" He asked resting himself on the headboard on the wall behind the bed.

" I am good..I don't like coffee. Virat I don't want to embarrass you any further so do tell me beforehand about anything you possibly think I could mess up" I spoke.

"Don't be too harsh on yourself Erica! We have a reception at the evening. So you will have to dress up for that and click few official photographs and at the reception I will manage just follow my lead" he spoke looking at his phone.

I was bothered that he seems disinterested in me. I was staring at him and as he looked up I lowered my eyes.

" Erica! I will see you in an hour! Please get ready for the reception and we will have to go together" he spoke while walking towards the door to leave.

I was already not liking him leave. He turned around to look at me and said "I hope you didn't mind that I carried you to the bed" he spoke with a smirk and left.

My cheeks became red with the thought of me laying in his arms. "Eri you can't fall for him" I said to myself.

A girl came inside and said " Ma'am we can get you dressed up. Virat sir has picked up an outfit for you".

I nodded and got dressed up in that outfit. They put on light evening makeup on me. It was a cream lehenga and I must say Virat has a great choice.

A few photographers were permitted inside and I had to pose for an official photo. I sat posing while Virat entered in a white shirt.

He gave me a look and I thought I would melt.
"Are you not done yet?" He asked the photographers.

" Sir! One candid photo with madam! please!" Requested a photographer.

He came and sat beside me on the sofa. I was clearly nervous. He pulled me into a hug and kissed beside my nose. I felt a tickling sensation and laughed.

"Perfect ma'am" a photographer spoke.

*********