Page 25 of Twisted Bonds

She held Madhav’s small hand while Shivay carried Nitya, and they went together into the mansion.

***

It was late at night, and Shivay was sending messages to his executives when the bedroom suite door opened.

Despite the late hour and a long day, his beautiful wife’s face was glowing with happiness. He knew she must have spoken to his father to discuss the new hire interviews. She often took his father’s guidance and advice.

“Have my parents gone to bed?” Shivay asked, putting away his phone.

Ishani let out a laugh. “Yes, I insisted Ma sleep and get some rest before everyone arrives tomorrow.”

Shivay knew his mother loved it when the entire family visited. His father indulged her by hosting many events often and inviting the family over.

“Nitya and Madhav stayed up a little late, too,” he said.

The children were too excited about their cousins visiting them. He had stayed in their room for a while until they slept.

“I’m so happy,” Ishani said with a content sigh as she joined him in bed.

He pulled her close and tugged the strings on the back of her dress.

“I thought I was done with my wifely duties this afternoon in my office,” she teased.

His mouth twisted. “That was only a quick snack… wife. What I want now is a meal I will savor slowly.”

She blushed.

Despite being married for over ten years and giving him two children, his beautiful, innocent wife still blushed whenever he spoke about his intense desire for her.

“I love you,” she whispered.

He cupped her face in his hand. “I love you too, wife.”

She was his wife, his love and his forever.

Rishab and Gauri

“We have added twenty more trucks of goods this month, madam.”

Gauri was in the Meena province, overlooking the shipments. Although there were several trusted people who were managing the administration of the province, she often came by to check on things and also met with the people who considered her as the head of the clan.

“That’s good,” said Gauri. “But ensure there is enough for the tourists to shop here as well.”

“Yes, madam.”

Over the past ten years, the Singoor desert was once again opened up to tourists who enjoyed visiting various provinces. Although large hotels were still not allowed to be built, desert camp resorts were set up in the larger provinces.

It had taken a while for the people of Singoor to adjust. But after having seen that the tourists were harmless and they appreciated the local culture, the clans people allowed them into their provinces.

Along with the exporting of local goods, tourism brought a significant income to the Singoor desert.

“All right,” she said. “I’ll get going and come back next month.”

Nodding at her people, she walked towards her horse that was tied at a distance. She climbed on top and set out on a ride. The desert wind in her hair felt wonderful.

All provinces in Singoor have well-connected roads built over the past ten years. Most times, she chose to travel in SUVs as they were quicker, but sometimes, she chose to ride horses.

Gauri smiled, recalling the reason she had chosen to ride a horse to Meena province that day. With her heart beating excitedly, she pressed her legs against her horse, increasing the speed.

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