Page 51 of One Hellish Wedlock
Reyansh muttered something under his breath. Whatever it was, Aanya couldn’t make it out but she was sure it was a silent promise of vengeance.
“Rey,” Radhika intervened, “what’s the harm in going shopping with her?”
He didn’t reply, just clenched his jaw.
“Rey,you’re lucky your wife evenasksyou to come along,” Rishi added with a chuckle. “My wife just sends me out like her personal shopper. I slog through all of California alone.”
Radhika gasped and smacked his arm while the others laughed. Aanya was thoroughly entertained.
“Di, you and Jeeju just arrived. How can I leave you both alone?” Reyansh tried again.
“We’ll rest,” Radhika assured. “You two go and come back soon. Besides, I have a few things to prepare.”
Aanya and Reyansh exchanged a glance. Neither of them had a clue what those “preparations” were.
“Fine,” he finally agreed. “I’ll take her.”
“Thank you!” Aanya chirped. “Di, you’re the best!”
“You’re welcome,” Radhika said warmly as they continued eating.
****************
Reyansh pushed open the bedroom door with force. Aanya stood with her back to him, fumbling to tie the knot of her kurta. She hadn’t locked the door.
“Ever heard of locking the door before changing?” he snapped.
She sighed without turning around. “I forgot. I’ve never stayed in a family before. It’s always been just Navya and me. But I’ll remember next time.”
“What was that drama about shopping?” he shot back, stepping further inside.
She exhaled and draped the dupatta over her shoulder. “What else do you want me to sleep in? Your shirt again?”
Oh yes.Nightwear.He had missed that in her wardrobe prep.
“Sunny can get it,” he offered, his tone less sharp now.
“Nope,” she said firmly. “No other man gets to pick what I wear at night. It’smybody,mydecision. But if you can’t accompany me, I’ll let Di know why.”
He stormed forward, pointing a finger at her face.
“Stop playing games. You don’t get to blackmail me with Di. I’m the one who holds all the power in this deal. Not you.”
Aanya raised both hands in mock surrender and then without warning, looped them around his neck and pulled herself close.
He froze. What the hell was she doing?
She whispered against his cheek. “We have an audience.”
His eyes darted toward the hallway and realized his sister was coming along. Of course. He composed himself immediately.
“Next time, you lock the door before starting a fight,” she added with a smirk.
He was still trying to decode this woman. A minute ago, she was baiting him, and now she was saving him.
“Shall we go?” she asked sweetly, stepping back.
Just then, Radhika entered.
