Page 7 of Twisted Deceit
“Hello, Ms. Kanwar?” The man addressing her was the most stunning man she had ever seen. Even in the dimly lit space, she took in his intense eyes, the high cheekbones, a chiseled nose, and that sexy cleft on his chin.
“Yes,” she whispered as she looked up at him, anchoring her neck to meet his eyes.
He held out his hand, and one end of his mouth twisted up. “I’m Nakul. I’m told you’re looking for me.”
Mr. Nakul Thakur! Finally.
She knew it was time to stop beating around the bush and get to business. She stood up slowly, her face tilted up to help his gaze. “Yes. I hear you’re looking for a temporary wife. And I’m looking for a fake husband.”
His eyes narrowed, but he remained silent, and she continued, “My suite is right below yours, and I didn’t really need to try to hear your conversation. That’s how I know.”
After a long silence, he asked, “And what makes you think you will fit the profile I’m looking for?”
“I know. I heard your conversations.” She wanted to be open. “You’re doing this for family, and so am I. I’m suggesting we make this work…for a year.”
“What if I’m looking for someone to be my wife for over a year?” His tone was curt.
“Like two years?” She nodded. “I can make that work.”
His eyes swept over her face in a lazy gaze. “I don’t know if you fit the personality I’m looking for. Even if it’s temporary, I don’t want to be stuck with a bore.”
Her eyes widened. “Are you calling me a bore?”
“You said that. All I said was I need to ensure I’m not stuck with someone I can’t hang out with.”
She found herself smiling. “Then I suggest we start spending time together.”
He shook his head. “I’m here for a friend’s wedding. I won’t have much time to get to know you.”
She nodded. “The bride’s brother, Jai, invited me and my friends to the events. Take me as your date.”
His eyes flickered with surprise. “One day, Ms. Kanwar.”
“Okay. And this needs to be between you and me. No one else.” She didn’t want her friends to know about the deal she might be making with him.
“My legal team will need to be involved to write the contract.” His tone was matter-of-fact, like he was dealing with a business person.
She nodded. “Once we agree to proceed with our deal, I will share some of my requirements. Until then, please get to know your fake girlfriend, who could be your potential temporary wife.”
“What’s your reason for wanting a contract marriage?” She wasn’t entirely surprised, he asked.
“I’m trying to dodge an arranged marriage bullet.” There was no reason for her to lie to him—the more authentic her reason, the easier to convince.
He pressed his lips together. “Why?” He had every right to know, but his probing annoyed her.
“I’m in the middle of my Masters in Business Administration degree, and that marriage will end my education.”
“How so?” He seemed to find her motive weak. “You could study online and finish your coursework.”
Yet again, it was okay for him to ask, but it annoyed her. “Not an option. The place I’ll need to be after marriage has no cell phone or internet connection.”
When he only looked at her silently, she smiled and said, “Come talk to me at the party so my friends don’t wonder why I’m going out with a stranger tomorrow.”
With those words, she walked away from him, knowing very well the deal was almost set. She could not believe things were falling into place so quickly. She smiled when she felt his gaze and knew he was considering her proposal.
Shortly after, she was at the bar talking to her friends. They had all gathered there after socializing for a bit. She was in mid-conversation when she felt the strange sensations again and before she could turn, Navya leaned over and whispered, “That guy who was checking you out early is walking over here.”
Her back stiffened, and she had to bite back a smile. He was checking her out even before he met her. “Which guy?” She wished her voice didn’t feel so shaky.
