Page 189 of One Hellish Wedlock
Wife,
Hard to ignore, especially for an obsessive husband like me. Your gloss is tempting by the way, although I prefer your natural lips.
And no, this flying kiss won’t save you. My punishment is going to be memorable. Don’t be scared... it won’t hurt. Not too much.
Husband.
California -Day 255
“Surprise!” Navya’s voice rang out at full volume as she stood at the door of Aanya’s apartment.
Aanya nearly stumbled backward in shock, her heart racing with anxiety and disbelief. Nine months. It had been nine whole months since she’d last seen her best friend.
“Navya? Oh my God… Am I dreaming?” she whispered, eyes wide.
“Nope, not a dream, baby. I’m really here,” Navya grinned.
Still unsure, Aanya reached out and pinched her. Navya yelped in pain, and that was all the confirmation Aanya needed.She flung her arms around her and hugged her tight, then quickly pulled her inside the apartment.
“Wow,” Navya murmured, taking in the space. “This is beautiful. You’ve got such a lovely place.”
They sank into the couch, laughter and energy crackling in the air between them.
“What are you doing here? And for how long?” Aanya asked eagerly. “Please tell me you haven’t checked into a hotel. You’re staying here with me.”
“Calm down,” Navya chuckled. “Let me answer one question at a time.”
Aanya giggled, snapped her fingers, and said, “Okay. Go.”
“I’m here for a shoot, only for three days, and then I’m heading back to India. And no, I’m not alone. The entire crew is with me, and our stays were pre-booked. I have to be with them.”
Aanya’s face fell. “That’s not fair, Navya. Nine months apart and you can’t even stay with me?”
“Who said I won’t spend time with you?” Navya countered. “Today I’m completely free. We can do everything we used to—go out, hang around, just like old times. What do you say?”
Aanya laughed, her mood instantly lifted. “I like the sound of that. Give me a second. I’ll call my client and say I’m taking a sick day.”
“Please do,” Navya nodded.
While Aanya made the call, Shikha entered and was pleasantly surprised to see Navya.
“Thanks for looking after my friend, Shikha,” Navya said warmly.
“Oh, I didn’t do anything,” Shikha replied. “It’s Aanya who takes care of all of us here—me, Di, Jeeju, and Ruhi.”
“Really?” Navya arched a brow. “Looks like I’ve missed a lot.” She glanced at Aanya with a look of curiosity.
“I need to head to work now,” Shikha said, grabbing her bag. “See you both later. Bye!”
Once she left, Aanya made coffee and sandwiches. They lay back on the couch, food forgotten for now, deep in conversation.
“So… how’s Di, Jeeju, and the baby?” Navya asked. “Are you the perfect daughter-in-law now?”
Aanya smiled with quiet pride. “That you need to ask them.”
“Interesting. What happened to telling Di after the baby’s birth that this marriage was all just a deal?”
Aanya pouted, her expression turning serious.
