Taming The Wild- All parts till now

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gurpreet

@preety88

Dazzler

+ 2

Posted: 13 years ago

#41

congrats on a new thread

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shonadesire

@shonadesire

Inactive

Posted: 13 years ago

#42

diii superbbb idea
i loved this ff so much...
already read 2 times...

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MidnightMusings

@MidnightMusings

Sparkler

+ 2

Posted: 13 years ago

#43

For the 10th thread di...🤗

*Sighs*... It feels wonderful to relive all the moments of this epic again...😊

Thank You Sooo Much for Taming the Wild...

With Love

Liashna

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naureen

@Norz

Sparkler

+ 4

Posted: 13 years ago

#44

mansi

congrates

lekin aab jaldi sey update doo plllzzz

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mansibharti

@mansibharti

Voyager

+ 5

Posted: 13 years ago

#45

Taming the wild
Part-67

Soulmates

The short journey back home was done in no time, or was it just because time seemed to both stop and fly at the same moment.. Whole way back she rested her head on his shoulder, she wanted him close, to feel him in her arms .. Noone could separate them now, it had been too long. Neither of them spoke. The words just couldn't form themselves meaningfully enough to express what they felt...

The small jerk of car coming to halt broke her line of thoughts. She smiled, in merely half an hour she'd lived her whole life with him, dreaming with open eyes their life together ahead. Right from being together till getting old and walking arm in arm on the gravel path of the garden, probably those were the grandchildren running before them and this brought that beautiful smile on her face, even old age looked so beautiful with him by her side. His nearness felt so comfortable that she even considered the possibility of staying there in the car for the night.

But ofcourse, that wasn't possible. And not too comfortable either.. For more than one reason.

Armaan didn't felt any different. She was finally there with him, with nothing and noone between them. He'd so desperately waited for this moment and now it was here. The way she held his arm resting her head on his shoulder all the way back was the only thing that assured him that he wasn't dreaming. Smiling as he recalled her reminder of what he 'forgot' back there. Thank god for that. He wasn't particularly happy with Anjy's suggestion but considering her condition and Ridhhima's dilemma he had to do the right thing, even if it meant another day. But God was specially benevolent today, blessing him with his wish..

Resting his cheek on her head kissing it lightly, he whispered " Ridhhima.." "hmm " " ghar aa gaya..."

She opened her eyes slowly and saw the mansion with its warm welcoming glow of lights. Tilting up her head meeting his gaze, she smiled softly and planted a soft kiss on his neck. He closed his eyes momentarily, savouring the touch of her lips on his skin. It felt like years of yearning and longing had finally come to an end.

Standing on the threshold with Armaan beside her, Ridhhima felt like a new bride entering the house for the first time. Memories danced before her eyes, any moment now Muskaan would come with that decorated thali and diya, she would lightly push that vessel full of rice and walk in as the part of the new family... Her family.. And even though there was no rush ,people or Muskaan, she could hear the welcome songs. Probably it was her heart, that was swelled with happiness and was humming them. How things have changed. Earlier the same house was a prison where she was sentenced lifetime. And now.. She wanted nothing but spend lifetime nowhere, but here.

Armaan squeezed her hand lightly, she turned to look at him and he could see in her eyes what she was thinking. They were bit misty but the smile on her lips told that they were tears of happiness.

" thank you " she whispered, leaning on his chest " for bringing me home " Armaan wrapped an arm around her and kissed her forehead smilingly " now that you are here sweetheart, it is truly home "

Leo was first to realize that she was back. Pulling a servant behind who's strength could not match Leo's excitement, he almost jumped on Ridhhima trying to lick every inch of her face. His mad bark raised an alarm informing everyone that she was back. His love was duly returned by Ridhhima who'd missed him equally. She wrapped his neck in her arms rocking him side to side and Leo lost control over his tail, it wagged like a fan turned-on on full speed. This excited bark wasn't enough. Next in line was Muskaan, who squeezed her into a rib crushing hug. It really didn't matter that she met her the same day in the morning !. Any outsider would have said that two sisters or friends were meeting after years !

Rahul was delighted too, he finally got the person to complain about Muski and BP's recent leg pulling mission on him. Virendra was plain happy and fussed like a worried father that she'd become so thin and how tired she looked. Maria beamed and Martin gave his rarest happy smile...

Leaning on the pillar ,with arms crossed ,Armaan observed the scene before his eyes. The life seemed to return back to the house and not only to him. He blinked softly, exhaling a sigh of contentment.

Ridhhima turned to look at him, their eyes met, she blinked softly and he knew that even though she was there with others it was him she was thinking of. And it filled his heart with strange warmth. Suddenly everything felt right. No rush, no worry, no fear. A strange calmness took over his heart and mind. Finally they were home.

They all sat in the hall chatting about things, weddings and latest addition in the family. The little baby. Ridhhima looked pretty excited to be a massi now and they discussed everything from fussy nosey aunties at the wedding to the names for the baby to latest gossip by Muski that was much delayed in the absence of her favourite listener, till Martin announced that it was time for dinner. Ridhhima served everyone, knowing well that Armaan won't eat if she didn't. And she was right.

Now that everything was back on track and things looked much better he went back on his naughty mode. As soon as Ridhhima sat by his side he grabbed her hand. It would not have created any trouble if only he'd held her left hand but now that her right hand was firmly in his hold she didn't knew what to do. Eating with left would not only be difficult but soon Muski and others would notice and she'd die of embarrassment. But did he cared. It seemed, No. She glared at him but he made an innocent face and then shamelessly refused to let it go. She pleaded through her eyes but he just shook his head enjoying her annoyed expression. She glared threatening him but to no avail.

" Armaan, mera hath chhodo. How am I going to eat ? Sab baithe hain aur tumhe harkatein sujh rahi hain " she whispered

" Noway. Hath to main nahi chhodne waala, ab how you're going to eat thats your problem. Waise, if you remember you said you'll feed me with your hands atleast once everyday. You broke your promise now you have to pay " he whispered back flatly annoying her further " agar tum kaho to main khila dun ? Tumhe mera na sahi mujhe to tumhara khayal hai " he added his dramatic touch and Ridhhima felt like strangling him. But this wasn't the time or place, so she decided on trying other tactic.

She smiled softly " Armaan dekho ab se I won't forget it ever. You know naa aaj saara din.." she couldn't even complete when Muski spoke up

" Arre Riddhi. Tu kha kyun nahi rahi. Cmmon start "

" haan Ridhhima why aren't you eating ? Khao naa, it's delicious ! " Armaan added. Her mouth fell open in surprise. He was hell bent on making her embarrass today, putting her in the situation. She glared, how shamelessly he was grinning !

" h.haan bhabhi aap to shuru kariye main bhi kha hi rahi hun " she pleaded again. But still no.

Then an idea clicked. With a sugary smile she turned to him. Armaan's grin faltered. He knew that smile. She was upto something. Picking up a spoon she swayed it before him then as no one was looking dropped it with as much noise as she could.

All eyes turned to the direction of the noise. " oops ! sorry. Armaan can you please pick up the spoon ? "

Now he knew what she was upto. The spoon fell, rather was thrown, little away and he had to move the chair a little in order to pick it up. He frowned. Shifting meant leaving her hand. And if someone else comes they would see what was holding her from eating the dinner.

Left with no choice he bent down reluctantly to pick it up and as soon

As her hand was free she kept it on the table before he could get the chance to grab it again. " thank you " she said with a triumphant grin

Bringing himself little close, he whispered " you managed this time, but I won't let you go so easily Mrs. Malik. Let's see how you manage to get out of my arms once we..." he left the sentence incomplete but it was enough to bring colour to her cheeks raising her heartbeat.. Now it was his turn to smile smugly.

The dinner seemed to go on for forever. Everyone was like full of truck load of stuff to tell ,ask and say and above all Muskaan and BP the great chatterboxes ! he cursed under his breath. Even Angel wasn't of any help, sleeping soundly. Kids these days are so unreliable ! He sighed. He glanced at the watch every five minutes or so, faking cough to grab her attention but can anyone move two ladies from their gossip session !. And when Muski asked for a round of coffee it almost blew off his top. Who on earth would care about coffee when the person was dying to be with his wife !. But somehow this simple thing kept eluding BP and Muski... And it seemed, Ridhhima too. Why do they need her by their side ? Was she going to sing them to sleep ??

Ridhhima was not unaware of his impatience but going away abruptly was not possible plus Muski was so happy to see her back that she could not bring herself to break her enthusiastic narration. She will make up to him once they were in privacy of their room. But merely the thought fluttered her heart, she tried concentrating on what Muski was saying to control it and it helped a little. But poor Armaan.. His face could not hide his feelings. She gushed in her heart, he looked so cute with that annoyed expression on his face. Probably it was too late ,she decided that in a minute or so she'll take leave from Muski, she'll make excuse if she had to, after all hubby needed her.

But before this could happen Armaan's patience gave up when Muskaan started with another of wedding incident. This was the last straw. He got up abruptly. " kahan jaa rahe ho Armaan ? Baitho naa " Ridhhima tried to convey that she'll follow soon through her eyes but he wasn't paying attention. " I'm going to the room. Unlike you two I have loads to do "

" Oye khotte ! What do you mean huh ? and were you hatching eggs sitting here for so long. Ab achanak kaam yaad gaya aur hum nikamme ho gaye ! Ek din ghar aur Angel ko tere paas chhod deti hun phir pata chal jayega ki kaun kitna kaam karta hai " Muskaan blasted off. Ridhhima hid her grin and Armaan knew better than to argue with Muski. Stomping his feet he grumpily moved back to the room.

Only to return few moments later.

" Ridhhima " she smiled seeing him back, she'd lost interest in Muski's chat as soon as he left " meri Saphhire project ki file kahan rakhi hai ? jab bhi tum kuch sambhal kar rakhti ho to wo milta hi nahi hai " he whined

" Armaan maine koi file nahi rakhi. Aur waise bhi main rakhti hun to saman milta nahi naa to ab se sara kuch tum khud rakhna." she retorted " Theek se dekho sab wahin rakhi hai file drawer main " and turned her face away, all happiness gone. He was back to ask for a file ! and she thought he was here to call her. Just her luck ,out of hundreds she was the one with workaholic husband !

He did not move away " No its not there. I've checked it. I don't know I want that file. Now ! " he crossed his arms stubbornly

Muskaan rolled her eyes " Ridhhi, tu jaa aur isko iski file dede warna yeh kisi ko chain se baithne nahi dega. And it's late, you too go and take some rest " Armaan scowled, couldn't Muski have said this little earlier !

Ridhhima nodded and wishing everyone good night walked back to the room with Armaan in tow, wondering why he was so keen on working now. Did she really spoiled his mood ?? But then remembered to make it up to him once they are alone. But going by the look on his face she knew she'd to make lot of efforts..

Going straight to the drawer where the files were kept she found the one he was demanding right there on top. She exhaled. What would he do without her ! picking it up she turned " Armaan yeh.." but before she could even complete her sentence she found herself wrapped in his arms. For a moment she was taken by surprise but then knew at once that file was just an excuse. She had this urge to wrap her arms around him and be there like that forever but Armaan's naughtiness had rubbed on her and this was a golden opportunity " Armaan kya kar rahe ho ? Hato " she made a face " yeh lo file. Tumhe bahut kaam hai naa " faking anger she tried to free herself " I'm so tired I'm going to sleep "

" What ?! you want to sleep ! Mch kya yaar Ridhhima, first you spend all my time gossiping with Muski like aunties and upar se you now want to sleep ! Not fair ! " he pouted, unaware of her mood to tease him

" Achha to I gossip and that too like aunties ! Very good Mr.Malik. Now that you've got your file and have plenty of work to do, I'll not disturb you any more. why to waste your time with an auntie huh " huffing she moved to the walk in closet leaving him calling her in vain. His eyes widened seeing his plan backfiring plus he knew well being addressed as Mr.Malik was never a good sign. But what could he do ? he was missing her so much !!

Ridhhima on the other hand grinned to herself. This was the first time she was actually successful in scaring him. Teasing was fun ! But now it was time for making up..

She came out looking rather fresh and... Stunning. Wearing a silky midnight blue night suit with hair left loose and smelling wonderful she stepped in. It hardly took a moment for him to realize that she was back. And he forgot to exhale. Her hair flew with the sudden gush of wind that flew in from open door, and he had to control his mad urge to move those wayward strands from her face and wrap her in his arms and kiss like there would be no morrow..

But then he remembered how she annoyed him. He wasn't going to give in so easily. He's Armaan Malik after all. Now he's going to play hard to get for a while. The thought brought him back to senses and he quickly closed his mouth that fell open.

Her lips curved in a smile. She noticed his change of expressions very well and knew she'd got the desired effect. Hubby dearest had no chance of escaping her charms. Armaan, least interested in the file merely turned the pages, he was left confused with her behaviour, she was so happy to be back and then when they did got the time she wanted to sleep. But could she just explain how he would manage to sleep when she's there looking so hot in that night suit smelling so heavenly that it was making him go wild.

Ridhhima stifled a grin. He looked so cute when he frowned, just one look at him and she knew he was faking anger. She'd caught him staring at her for a moment too long and the other thing that confirmed it was his file... Which he was holding upside down.

With a naughty smile she came and sat down beside him rather forcefully brushing her arm with his and pushing him a little. " ehem ehem " he gave her an angry look returning back to his file " Armaan " she called softly. He didn't reply " Armaann " she called again lovingly

" kya hai ? " he snapped

She controlled her grin " kuch nahi. Main bas yeh keh rahi thi ki agar file padhni hi hai, to kam se kam use seedha to pakad lo " pulling it out of his hands she handed it back turning it the right way.

Armaan being caught in the act felt hugely embarrassed and adding to it was her laugh which seemed to get out of control now. " haan to wo to.. Main bas kuch dekh raha tha ki.. Ki.. Kuch laga to nahi hai " he gave a lame excuse

" ohh I see. To kuch laga hua tha " and she again burst out laughing

" Ridhhima " he glared " Ridhhiimaa " he warned but it had no effect on her " ok now. That's it. Ridimba stop it ! " and it worked

Her laugh vanished immediately " What ?! Did you just call me something ? " she narrowed her eyes

" Yes Ridimba. I just called you Ridimba and you know what you even laugh like her. Scaarry ! " he shuddered dramatically

" Armaan I'm warning you stop calling me Ridimba " she warned raising a finger at him

" achha what happened when you were laughing at me huh "

" That's different "

" Achha how's it different. Oh wait a minute I know how ? Because you belong to another planet, things there are different. Isn't it "

" Arrrgghh Armaan stop it okay. "

" stop what Ridimba " he was ready for the challenge. They now faced each other on the couch, like two warriors

" Armaan I'm warning you "

" Ridimba "

" Armaaannn "

" Yes Ridimba "

" Armaan "

" Rid.." he couldn't complete it this time. Her lips covered his all of a sudden, making him shut up in an unexpected yet lovely way.

Armaan was dumbstruck with the ambush, but when he felt her lips moving against his, his senses slowly registered what was going on and then... Magic took over.

He wrapped his arms around her waist pulling her close, falling back with her on top, without breaking the kiss. She now was nestled in his lap, her fingers running in his silky hair pulling him even closer... His hands moved sensuously all over her back ,the closeness making him aware of her soft curvy body... Intoxicated by her touch and the magical kiss he tightened the hold even further, his hand found its way to her skin under her shirt making her shiver with anticipation, it moved freely exploring her creating waves of unknown feelings and sensations. The kiss was deeply satisfying, it poured out all the longing and craving, it left them hungry and satisfied at the same time..

He broke the kiss, and smiled looking at her flushed face " Okay Princess " he rubbed his thumb over her now bit swollen lower lip, she was panting " you won." he whispered " And I'm willing to lose every argument if you promise to shut me up like this everytime " her lips curved into a shy smile ,she brushed her lips against his whispering softly " I love you "

" I love you too Princess." and pulled her into a loving hug hiding himself in the crook of her neck. She ran her fingers in his hair caressing them softly.. This is what she'd been longing for all this while, her eyes closed as contentment filled her heart.

Planting a soft kiss on her neck he pulled away a little. How long they remained in each others heavenly embrace they had no clue. Time didn't existed today. " You must be tired " he said lovingly caressing her cheek with his thumb " cmmon lets get some sleep " he was about to get up when she pulled him back " Armaan.. if I say I don't want to, then.." she craved for more, sleep was nowhere in her agenda today. She just wanted to be in his arms, to have him close just like they were a moment ago... May be even more.

He smiled knowing what she meant. But it wasn't the time yet. Things have to be special when it comes to his princess " then I have another option.. Let's not sleep at all " he got up scooping her in his strong arms. His firm hold around her slender waist was most comfortable, it surprised her but then feeling of being secure took over, contented, she rested her head on his chest with an arm around his neck " let's talk, there are so many things I want to tell you, to ask you..." he whispered kissing her head lovingly, moving to the bed.

Lying on the bed with Ridhhima wrapped in his arms, her head resting on his chest he felt like the little void in his heart finally filling up. He wondered if anything could even come close to this ecstatic feeling. He couldn't recall any. This moment surpassed all. Now that he thought of it, everyday he asked the same question and each day proved itself better than yesterday. Just few days back he was wondering if anything could feel better than riding a superbike, then he met her and asked the same question that was surpassed when he finally realized that he's in love and then got married.. each day brought something with it and the best were the roller coaster days that just went by. And then too he asked the same question but the truth was, everyday was better than yesterday since the day she came into his life and what it felt to have your soulmate by your side couldn't be compared or surpassed by anything in this world.

Ridhhima wondered why he was suddenly so quiet, just a moment ago he was so keen on talking. Tilting her head up a little she spoke softly " Armaan, what happened ? Abhi to keh rahe the ki itni saari baatein karni hain.. Ab kahan kho gaye hmm "

He exhaled bringing her close " you know its happening a lot these days, as soon as I get you in my arms I forget everything else "

" wow another of your cheesy lines. I was so missing them. Waise kaun si movie ka dialogue hai hmm ? " she grinned pecking his dimple " heyy, that's a talent you see, stealing cheesy lines. You know how many movies I had to watch for that " and they both broke out in soft laughter but he got quiet again. She knew there was something he wanted to say but couldn't, deciding to coax it out he said " Armaan " caressing his face lovingly " cmmon tell me what's the matter " looking into her eyes he knew he couldn't hide it, her eyes were like X-ray looking straight into his heart.

Kissing the hand that cupped his face he turned a little to her side " I can't believe it's all real. That you are finally here, with me, as mine .I was so scared... So scared that I've lost you for forever, to that Vivek.. That you'll leave me or worse.. Never love me." he tightened his hold around her, that thought still haunted him..

Her heart twisted with pain in his words,she could imagine his fear and insecurity. Merely the thought that he was divorcing her knocked the life out of her but it was nothing before how she treated him ,the pain he went through everyday because of her. Swallowing the lump in her throat she gathered herself. She was here with him for life and beyond. Now she's going to make everything all right. She'll love him so much that it will wash away all the pain in his heart. And this he should know. Cupping his face she spoke softly and firmly " hey look at me " he did " I am never ever going to go away from you Armaan. You are my life, how will I live without you, I know I should have said this long before but if got delayed then its solely my fault, you should never ever blame yourself for it. And how dare you compare yourself to that jerk ! He is not even worth a thought. I don't want his name to come up ever again. He means nothing to me. okay " he nodded smiling now. It was so relieving " And if you have to think about something then think about me and only me.." her voice lowered to a whisper finally getting lost as her lips covered his in a love filled kiss.

The lip lock that started gently soon heated up with passion...he deepened the kiss pouring all his love longing and desire. She was surprised with the passion that the kiss carried and soon it dazed her making her forget everything else. Her hand crept into his hair and another found its way to his back under his shirt turning him on.. A soft moan that erupted deep in his throat confirmed it. He wasn't far behind ,his lips trailed down to her neck leaving a trail of kisses adding fuel to her passion. Caressing her waist under her shirt his hand made its way up till it reached its destination making her gasp.. His hold tightened as he explored her, his lips didn't leave a single spot marking their presence, among all this activity she found a moment of sense and realized that he'd managed to open two of her top buttons from where her inner was easily visible, actually only one side, the other was already covered by his palm. She blushed hard, though it went unnoticed on her already crimson face. As the moment heated up he went little lower now kissing her chest, moving even lower, she forgot to breathe. The sensation was too much to bear, he slowly uncovered one of the silky mounds.. a soft cry escaped her lips as he nibbled on the soft skin leaving a love bite. Realizing what he'd done he kissed it gently easing her.. His lips curved into a smile at the frown that came on her face. The t-shirt he was wearing was obstructing her caresses. Not wishing to be devoid of her touch he got rid of it in one swift moment ,pinning her underneath him again capturing her lips in yet another passionate kiss.

Finding easy access now her hands explored his back, he rippled with muscles everywhere. Her touch was creating some serious effects in his body and hers as well.. they explored each other sensuously.. with ragged breathing and pounding hearts both found themselves transferred into another world. Taking her by surprise again he suddenly pulled her over him ,she fisted his hair pouring kisses all over his face lowering down to his chest and then again claiming his lips. Losing all his senses his hand slid down to her lower back cupping the softness. She held him tight hiding herself in his chest ,it seemed the dam of patience which now had serious cracks would go down any minute..

They were still exploring each other when she heard some noise. Ignoring it she continued but then it was added with a whimpering sound. Coming back to present she pulled out a little " did you hear that ?? "

He was too lost to see or hear anything " what ? Nothing's there " turning a little he pinned her down nuzzling her neck " nahi Armaan ,I think someone's at the door " she pushed him back a little. Breaking away Armaan tried to listen the sound ,unfortunately it was now loud enough to go unnoticed. He recognized it immediately frowning at it, but before he could convince her that it was nothing and resume the 'work' she sat up " Armaan I think it's Leo "

" Arrggghh that bloody dog ! just one. If god would Just let me off one murder, I will kill this dog " he growled

Ridhhima glared " Armaaann ! How can you say so. Agar usne sun liya hota to ? How hurt he would've been "

" hurt ! That would have hurt him !! And what about me ?? Yeh har baar mere romance time main kyun aata hai 24 ghante tumhare aage peeche ghum kar ise chain nahi milta. Bloody kutte ka bachha ! " he sat back frowning

" ohho stop being jealous of a dog " she grinned but then saw he wasn't exactly listening his lips curved in a naughty smile and eyes that trailed down to her messy state, making her realize her condition immediately " Armaaann stop it " she quickly buttoned up her shirt blushing.

" What ?! Now I can't even admire my beautiful wife ! Fine ! go to that dog " he pouted. Ridhhima sighed " you're such a kid at times. I'll be back in a minute and I love you mister " she gave a quick peck on his lips and rushed to the door before Leo scratched it to shreds.

Opening the door she found an eager Leo wagging his tail vigoursly " hey Leo, what happened sweety " it seemed Leo managed to sneak in to wish her good night. As soon as Ridhhima patted him rubbing his back he went mad again, judging by the tail wagging and that look in his eyes with tongue hanging out. Armaan scowled seeing him there, the Spoiler ! The way he was looking at him from her back it seemed he was mocking at Armaan. Armaan had had enough how dare he grin at me ! He threw a punch at Leo in the air giving a deadly glare which he noticed very well and this was not all, Armaan ran a finger across the neck indicating cutting off his head. It was all that was required. Without wasting another second Leo ran away from there whimpering like he'd seen a ghost, leaving a very surprised Ridhhima behind. She looked back at Armaan questioningly but he just shrugged his shoulders innocently.

Still bit confused at what happened a moment ago she slowly walked back to the bed. But it was soon forgotten all thanks to his presence near her. As soon as she was back he pulled her into his embrace. Smiling she snuggled close to him wrapping her arm around his waist. " pata nahi achanak kya ho gaya "

" I'm telling you that's a weird dog "

" Achha ! you know Rahul bhaiyya told me that you always wanted a dog. I wonder if you really brought Leo for me.."

" ofcourse it was for you, I have nothing to do with that villian ! And waise bhi I play with lions not with dogs " he added smugly

" yeah really Mogli " she rolled her eyes " the way you ran around in your shorts with that stuff lion- Sherkhan. So where is Sherkhan Mogli ? Back in the jungle ? " she gigled but he became grave, his brows creased. She was surprised to see the tense expression on his face. Then it striked her. It must be connected to past, she must divert the talk or this could seriously trouble him. She had to prepare him for that first." hey kahan kho gaye. Achha chhodo tell me.."

But he cut her in between " I don't know Ridhhima... haven't seen him in years.. I don't remember.. Where is he ? " he asked more to himself than her, his frown deepened worrying her..

Putting a smile she cupped his face " Armaan, look at me.." she had to do something fast " how can you think of something else when I am here huh " with that she brushed her lips with his fortunately that was enough to divert him. Smile returned to his face instantly " now how am I suppose to remember anything if you keep doing that "

" good, then don't " her heart sighed in relief. Hugging him close she rested her head on his chest as he caressed her hair " yeh sab ek sapna sa lagta hai naa Armaan. Jaise kal ki hi to baat hai hum bachhe the aur tab kisne socha tha ki ek din hum hamesha ke liye ek dusre se jud jayenge "

He smiled dreamily " hmm, sab kuch kitna achanak ho gaya naa. Pehle India aana wo Modi ke saath race aur phir.. Tumse milna " he kissed her head remembering it " not all accidents are bad "

" let that be the first and last okay " she warned " Aye aye madam " he readily obeyed ,now smiling

" Ridhhima "

" hmm "

" Do you remember your first day after our marriage " he smiled

" How can I forget that " she smiled caressing his hair

" I swear that day you must've cursed me so much " he grinned remembering that day

Ridhhima caressed his cheek lightly " I was so wrong, but you didn't help me either "

He laughed " yeah, and do you remember our first good morning no, good night kiss " she grinned, pinching his nose playfully remembering it " I wasn't going to give you that but you still managed to steal one "

" Well what can I say ,I'm just irresistible and you were looking just.. Wow " laughing softly she lightly hit his chest. Turning to her side wrapping his arms around her waist he nuzzled her neck " and after that day I had to wait for more than six months to get my nights and mornings so good " he kissed her neck " and didn't you thought that I was upto something that day " he added naughtily

She blushed " you left me with no other reason to think otherwise. The way you walked up to me trying to 'wish' me good night dressed in that black robe with that strong musky cologne of yours.."

" heyy you still remember, I didn't knew that you noticed so much ! naughty girl ! just admit it, you couldn't keep your eyes off me " her mouth fell open, she obviously had said too much " so if I tell you that I actually want to do what was left that day, sorry, night. then..." she turned crimson seeing that longing in his eyes. She was of course aware that such moment would arrive soon and this time she was all prepared ,probably eager too.. But everytime she thought of it her heart and face betrayed her emotions and this time was no different. He looked into her eyes, caressing her face softly, slowly brought it closer and he placed his lips on her soft luscious ones " I'll definitely continue with but before that there's something I wanted to tell you.. About our first kiss.." it was probably time to tell her what happened in Australia

She blushed ,if possible, even more " Armaaann rehne do. Mujhe pata hai tumhe kya kehna hai.." not meeting his gaze

" ohh I see so you know hmm. May I know what you know " he made an innocent face like he didn't knew anything at all. Ridhhima opened and closed her mouth like a fish but just couldn't bring herself to say anything " Armaaann tum naa bas.." he laughed out at that cute frown on her face. She looked so adorable, he wrapped his arms around her tightly securing her in a love filled embrace.

" I love you " he said. She tilted her head up and planted a kiss on his chin " I love you too sooo much "

He smiled he'll tell that some other day, and then he suddenly remembered something " hey Ridhhima " he sat up a little " we haven't decided where we'll go for our honeymoon.."

She got excited too " No, maine to soch liya hai "

" Really ! So where my princess wants to go " he pulled her again in his embrace

" I want to go to Las Vegas "

" Las vegas ! " he was surprised " Yaar tumhe honeymoon par jaana hai ya jua khelne "

" Ofcourse jua khelne. You know I've never been to a casino before. Dad never allowed me, and you know di says it's very exciting she even won in a game.." she said dreamily

" Darling I don't think we'll have enough time to play, we'll be busy with other games of our own in our room."

" Armaan ! " she slapped his hand which was again slipping in her shirt " You dont expect us to stay in the room all the time."

" Actually I do. But what's wrong in that. Its not a bad idea considering how much you made me wait." he complained cutely melting her

" Armaaann " but she decided better not show that to him " I don't know, mujhe Vegas jaana hai bas."

He gave up smilingly, like he could deny anything to her " Okay princess, as you wish bas mujhe kisi bet main mat haar jaana." He grinned " So Vegas it is. But I have something else too." she again got curious but before she could ask he quietened her " Unhun, that will be a surprise for you. But I promise ,you'll love it " Ridhhima hugged him tightly knowing well that he'd just begun with his surprises.. And she'd definitely love it. Whatever it was..

" Sweetheart abhi tak to hum pahunche bhi nahi and you've started already.. I didn't knew wifey's so romantic " her mouth fell open at the comment and she let go of his neck immediately " Armaaann " the blush creeping up again but he pulled her close tucking a strand of hair behind her ear smirking " sorry, but you should've seen your face "

" haha very funny " hitting his chest lightly she snuggled close " another of your PJ's "

" You think that was a PJ ?! Let me tell you a story then. You know once a cockroach sang a song and the other died..." this grabbed her attention immediately " How ?? " she asked

" Because the song was HIT " ( hit is an insect killer ) she tried but failed and both laughed out " You and your PJ's.." she kissed his cheek softly between her laugh " I missed them but plz next time, keep the cockroaches away "

He raised a brow at that with a naughty glint in the eyes " leave the coackroach ! Hmm someone is scared "

" oh puhlese ! " she rolled her eyes " it's just that they remind me of someone I don't exactly 'like' "

" Really ?! who ? " he asked controlling his smirk. She saw that and narrowed her eyes apparently he didn't bought it seeing right through. Okay, fine. She was scared of those freaky monsters but who wouldn't ! They are practically aliens eating anything from sushi to soap yuck ! with the ability to survive a neuclear blast ! And for god's sake they live in sewage drains eww !!.. But she wasn't going to accept defeat so soon. Controlling a shudder she said " they remind me of your dearest Parminder " the way she took her name left Hcl behind in acidic quality. But to her annoyance he just burst out laughing " I knew it ! You are so jealous of Pam "

" I am not jealous of 'your' Pam ! But just for the record, if she even tries rather even think of laying her hands on my man then I swear I will crush her under my feet like a cockroach " and boy she was dead serious about that. Talk about being territorial !.

" oye hoye possessive huh and hey she's not 'My Pam' ! And besides trust your man woman ! " he faked indignation " mch ,it's not you I'm worried." she explained, least affected by his complain " It's that pig headed cockroach of a woman that annoys me. The simple thing that she's nowhere in picture, has absolutely no chance with you doesn't seem to penetrate in that thick skull of hers. I told her the first time we met in Manali then again at home at dinner "

" At dinner !? When did that happen? Gosh I missed the duel. " she wasn't amused lost in her thoughts, her nostrils flared a little and lips curved in a sly smile.. She probably was imagining how Pam would look crushed under her feet " leave her honey," he knew it and was rather amused at the thought and her expressions " she won't understand.. She doesn't have what I have to know what it is like " she looked into his eyes. He smiled " soulmate " he kissed her forehead lovingly bringing back the smile " you know when you won that game there she took the shampagne bottle and left. Thank god for that.. And you too "

" Yeah , you know she tried her best to get me drunk "

" Really ! Then why didn't you.. I bet we both would have enjoyed it " he winked only to get smacked on the shoulder but infected by his laugh she couldn't help but join.. Wondering if only she'd actually got drunk, not being very good with handeling alcohol. Little did she knew that she actually did got drunk.. Somewhere else.

" Hey Ridhhima " he chirped breaking her line of thoughts " let's throw a party. Let's celebrate US "

" Party ?! No thanks. Abhi abhi to free hui hun itne saare functions se I just want to relax now. And remember last time when you threw a party what happened " he looked at her confused " remember your birthday in conference hall " she reminded, a sheepish grin showed up as he recalled that wild day " that wasn't my fault " " really.. You're so innocent hai naa " and he nodded cutely, she threw her hand in the air at that " bhabhi was so right about you. You and your friends are equal to disaster ! "

" But I said sorry naa " he knew better to tread on that line, lest she pulled out some skeletons from the past. He must mellow her down.

" Yeah and that was the only reason I spared you my nice lectures " he thanked god for blessing him with quick thinking brain. Her bark was worse than her bite.. He was just wondering when she spoke again " but you know the breakfast we had that day.. Was the best I ever had.. I guess that was coz you were with me. The first meal we had together... I'll cherish that day forever in my memories " she added with a dreamy smile.

" Yeah me too " he kissed her forehead squeezing her lightly " you know something, I planned to confess my love to you that day.. Remember the dinner we were supposed to have that night... But thoda gadbad ho gaya " she remembered that night so well, the grand birthday ,courtesy Niki and group " you know you scared me that day, seeing you in pain shook me from within. I never told this to anyone. I couldn't understand at that time why it effected me so much.. I guess that added to my anger apart from the fact that you took yourself for granted and were so happy about cracking some deal. Stupid ! " she made a face

" Hey it wasn't a stupid deal " she raised a brow at him " I never said the deal was stupid " he sighed giving up. Wives ! Who can argue with them " but look at the brighter side " he tried diverting her " I got to spend some more time with you. And you know that was what finally made dad hurry up to get us married "

" I know. BP told me that, but it was a great way to spend some time with someone.. Lying on hospital bed " he chuckled, but she didn't " Armaan.. Promise me, that you'll never do anything stupid like that ever again.. You don't know how terrifying it was " he hugged her close ,feeling the fear and pain in her voice " heyy princess.." " No, promise me first " he smiled assuringly " okay I promise.. But you need not worry sweetheart. I can handle myself. You know what they called me during collage- Superman " he said smugly

It lightened her a bit " yeah Superman with a tendency to crash without any efforts " he scrunched his nose at that but she giggled

" I do Not crash ! " he protested

" Really ! Remember the cold when you came back soaked in rain. The day I was leaving for America.."

" Yeah, to look for that jerk " he was right but still which idiot runs out in cold Feb rain.. Except one and she was irrevocably in love with him " fine. But still.. and what about the time we were in Manali the first time "

" You were feeling cold yaar ! "

" So you switched to your Superman mode "

" Yes, and thank you " and got a slap on the shoulder " and the time at the site " " hey that wasn't my fault ! " she didn't listen " and the time when I was at mum's place after we came from Australia "

Suddenly his grin faltered, she wagged her brows questioning him " I thought...I thought you didn't care. You weren't coming back so.. "

She became serious hearing that " so you went out and did all the stupid stuff " he kept mum, lowering his eyes avoiding to look into hers. But she wasn't going to let it go so easily. She sat up facing him and cupped his face " look at me Armaan.." he did " I know my going away was really tough on you. It was for me, but some things had to be.. But things do happen for good.. You know it made me realize what I was blind to.." he waited " that I loved you, Can't live without you.. And had I stayed then things wouldn't have been like this.. I know it was painful but it was the only thing I could think of then.. You understand that.. Don't you ? " he gave a small nod holding her hand. She passed the idea of telling him that she got hold of his diary. May be later " but get this thing clear once and for all.. There was, is and will be Noone more important than you in my life. I can't even bear a scratch on you let alone anything else, what if something happened to you that day.." her soft kiss on his forehead brought his smile back " that's why I married a doctor " he was back to being Armaan " 24 hrs. On call. Who took umm lets see.. just few months to diagnose symptoms of love.. To tell her own husband that she loves him " he pulled her in his embrace again

She chuckled, her man was incorrigible " and if it wasn't for your pathetic guessing abilities hubby dearest, then you wouldn't have waited for that long.."

" What ?! " it was her turn to smile, settling her head on his chest she narrated how he royally missed all the hints she planned " oh crap !! "

" Exactly my reaction, and see how you ended in linking me and Rohan " he kicked himself mentally ,if only that jerk had opened his big fat mouth before ! " and with that you left Ekta Kapoor behind in weird imagination " she pinched his nose giggling at his frowning face " I do suck at guess work " he finally admitted exhaling a defeated sigh but still got rewarded.. Got a kiss on cheek in return.

" But look at it this way, if I'd understood all those hints then you wouldn't have got the chance to overcome your hesitation and confess.. And that was the bestest thing. I wish I could record that moment and keep it forever " he added excitedly

" Yeah, me too. I just want to see again how it took you full 5 minutes to register what I've said. There I was pouring out my heart and you just stood there, like a dummy " he chuckled " not my fault sweetheart, you surprised me ! And I was speechless for a moment not 5 minutes ! "

" Yeah right ! " like he would admit it, she thought. He sighed " and since then I just couldn't believe if I am dreaming or everything is real.. The time at the weddings seems like a dream.. Like we just met yesterday and when we were together.. And then your surprise " she blushed a little knowing what surprise he was talking about.. " though I know 'we' can make it real.." she raised a brow at the naughty glint in his eyes. But waited " if you could just kiss me.. Just to make sure you know.." he explained but she knew him too well. But what the heck ! she couldn't get enough of him either. Smiling ,she blushed and that was enough..

He pulled her closing the distance between their lips.. And pretty soon the world disappeared. They lost each other in yet another magical moment of togetherness...

But before things heated up again he slowly pulled out. She frowned.. still dazed with the kiss, her hands around his nape refusing to let go.. she opened her eyes to meet his intense ones but they had softness and boundless love in them... And though passion and desire lurked behind they were kept well in check...

But why ? She wanted him. He wanted her. And she was ready.. Then what stopped him.. hadn't they talked about it and still there was no sign to show that there would be something more than talking tonight..

He probably read those questions in her eyes coz the next moment he smiled kissing her forehead and whispered softly " Ridhhima," she looked into his eyes.. " I want my head message. You haven't forgotten the rules. Right ?! "

Though taken by surprise at the request she couldn't help her smile.. it was clear indication that he wanted to sleep, although she doubted if he knew that it took him hardly 5 minutes to sleep once she started... Probably he was tired, Pulling him close she made him rest his head on her chest..wrapping an arm around his head softly carressing it." Ridhhima.." " Hmm.." " I think rather than making you even more tired I should let you rest tonight." He turned up his head a little to meet her surprised look, " we don't need to rush things.. Do we ? " it took a moment and then she knew what he meant and why he didn't. Her lips curved in a lovely smile, he always was so concerned about her. Losing her power to speak and think of anything else, she kept her lips on his, conveying her love and happiness to have him in her life. A fairy tale was coming true right before her eyes.. And the best thing.. It was hers... Theirs.

The sun rays filtered into the room giving it a soft warm glow. She woke up squinting her eyes a little and felt tightness around her waist.. her lips curved into a smile seeing him lying next to her.. He looked soo cute, holding on to her like she would run away somewhere !.. Caressing his hair she gently freed herself from his hold and turned sideways facing him.. he slept peacefully, contented.. She remembered the last night and her smile widened.. Accompanied with blush.. Her fingers ran through his messy hair brushing them and planting a soft kiss on his forehead she somehow managed to let herself away from him.. She didn't knew the mornings could be so beautiful.. Now she understood why he got up before her everytime insisting to see her face first thing in the morning.. It definitely brightened the day.. Manifolds.

She placed a pillow under his arm. He shifted a little but immediately snuggled to it, smiling softly she kissed his head again and made her way to freshen up..

She stepped out of bath wrapped in a rob and found him still sleeping.. Shaking her head, smiling at his cuteness she decided to wake him up in her own way but after she changed first or her plan might bomb..

Armaan frowned in his sleep.. Whatever it was, felt familiar in touch but wasn't exactly like moments before... Unable to take it any longer he opened his eyes sleepily and he was right.. This stupid pillow wasn't what he was wishing to find in his arms.. He looked around ,where was his princess ??

Ridhhima hummed selecting the dress. She was bursting with unknown excitement and that wide smile was like permanently plastered on her face.. Now even her cheeks started to hurt a bit for smiling so much !. Hitting her head lightly grinning at her teen like behaviour she got back to her selection..

Armaan checked everywhere but she wasn't anywhere.. Fear accompnied confusion.. But then he came to the walk in wardrobe room and found it locked from inside. Putting an ear to the door he heard her soft humming.. Relief washed over.. shaking his head he hit himself lightly at his stupid panic attack. Deciding to freshen up quickly he walked away from there.. his wife, like all other women in the world wasn't coming out of that place so soon..

Ridhhima finally settled on a beautiful yellow sari with light flower pattern on it.. Both reflecting her state of mind and heart.. Finally she made her way out but then stopped..

Armaan wasn't there.. Where did he go ?.. She was just wondering when a pair of strong arms snaked around her waist.. She could recognise that strong muscular smell anywhere in the world and more than that.. The touch.. His touch..

He rested his face on her shoulder nuzzling her neck.. now this is what you called leaving speechless he thought. She raised a hand running her fingers in his hair leaning back on him " Good morning jaan "

She could feel his face breaking into a smile " jaan ? Ek aur !? " she felt his lips on her shoulder sending a wave through her body.. She turned around still locked in his arms to see him smiling widely.. " not bad ! Keep up the progress.. Jaan "

She blushed, it's really hard to control your tongue when you are on the verge of losing your mind to heart.. Or had already lost it. " yes " she tried controlling it " but it's okay if you don't want me to call you that " she said trying to hide her blush wrapping her arms around his neck

" What ?? No way ! Infact.." he pulled her closer " that's a new rule from now on.. You have to call me with an endearment only whenever we are alone.."

" What about in public ? " she raised a brow " I don't mind if you don't " but then she thought about it.. Private was better.. There were lot many sharks out there looking for an oppertunity to hunt them with a teasing harpoon.. No thank you. Private was better option " I guess private is better " she declared. He smiled " I thought so.. Now stop wasting time and wish me good morning "

" Of course jaan.." and she covered his lips with hers to make the morning extraordinarily good..

The morning was turning to be really good with every passing second.. The saree is the sexiest form of clothing no matter who says what !. His hand found easy access to wherever they desired and the fact that he still didn't bothered to put on the t-shirt he took off yesterday added to the goodness of the morning.. Air found it difficult to pass through them and thanks to the subconscience mind that kept reminding them to breathe or they would have surely fainted !.. With lips trailing down to her neck and shoulders he found his fingers exploring her soft sensitive back partly covered with a deep neck blouse giving him plenty of space.. And what was with her touch ! It just was driving him crazy.. But then he reminded himself something... His mind played the stop song and reluctanly he pulled himself away..

This time she wasn't complaining, she had few things to pull her back too, though it did took a while for her to realize that world existed.. They stood there in each others embrace feeling blissful.. " the mornings just got better " he finally said breaking the silence " good morning Princess "

She smiled widely, then thinking something spoke out " Armaan.." " hmm " came the reply " I have to go to Sanjeevani.." she said bit hesiating and almost pleading

" Sanjeevani ?? Why ? " as expected there popped the question breaking away a little he looked at her

" Just some work.. Patients.. You know naa I was already away for so many days.. Just for today..pleasee " she added super cutely

Now that was bound to work. Isn't it ?! " It's okay princess.." she was surprised, that was easy ! " infact I too have some work.. So you finish yours and I finish mine and meet you in the evening okay. And I'll pick you up ,don't leave without me " she nodded agreeing happy and disappointed at the same time. He couldn't leave work even for a day.. But then consoled that she wouldn't be at home either so...

but she wasn't allowed to think too much.. He proceeded to make his morning even better.. In the promised way. Who could remember anything after that..

Coming down for the breakfast they found Muski.. Armaan quickly took Angel from her talking in the special language which only two of them knew !.. But Muski had her scanner on Ridhhima today.. Setting up the table she cornered her " someone is looking fresh and happy.. I guess night does have its way to relax human body. Right Ridhhi ? "

" Bhabhiii !! " Ridhhima turned red and fortunately Maria came and saved her from further embaressing session of teasing. The breakfast was again a joyous affair and thankfully Ridhhima remembered to keep her hands out of his reach this time..

Time seemed to fly ,it was not before that she stood before Sanjeevani gates that she realized what she'd to do.. " so princess, here you are " he said " and don't forget I'll pick you up at 6 " she nodded " I'll call you okay " he closed his eyes as she leaned to kiss him but soon opened them when she backed off with just a peck.

" Hey ! That was too small ! And short ! " she chuckled nothing would be enough for him " don't worry jaan. You'll be compensated " she winked ,his eyebrows got lost in his hair.. " yesss ! " he almost jumped on his seat.

She stood there till his car was out of sight.. and then quickly took out her cell phone dialling urgently. The bell rang twice " Sapna, I'm going for my honeymoon ! " she blurted out as soon as it was picked

" What ?? Oh thank god ! You took like forever to give me this news "

" Thank you, I know you were dying for the juicy news but I'm in a kind of time crunch. I need your help " she gave the gist of her problem

" What do you mean you don't have anything to wear !?. You're one of the best dressed people I know ! "

" Sapnaa, don't act dumb now. I really don't have time " and then Sapna understood " ohh I see. But didn't you shop for it before wedding ? "

" I did but as I wasn't much interested in the whole wedding thing at the first place I didn't paid any attention. And that stuff would look good if my mom decided for her second honeymoon.. Oh what I am talking about ! Cut the crap. I need help ! Something nice new and now !! "

" Aww look at you. All grown up, my little Ridhhima who couldn't hear the word smooch without turning into human tomato is now going to have sex ! "

" Sapnaaa !! " she almost choked on the air.. and as Sapna said, turned into human tomato, but soon got over it. Today nothing could stop her " very candid. Now get your ass here in 5 minutes ! "

" Aye aye madam. Turn around " and there she was. Before Ridhhima could utter another word she was wrapped in a tight bear hug which was duly returned. They broke the hug bubbling with excitement " let's get started ! It's time to turn this tomato into terrific tomato ! " terrific tomato !! Though she'd have preferred ' terrific tigress' just for rhyme sake but knew better to say that aloud.. with that they headed to accomplish their mission- Magic.

Ridhhima wondered if this was a good idea at first place..now that she was here she felt those back at home weren't that bad.. The enthusiastic saleswoman was dedicatedly doing her work.. Unaware that she was turning embarressing with every passing minute ! Giving details of every type and stuff.. Even hinting at their easy putting on and off !! It least effected Sapna who listened as if they were the details of a critical case. She sighed, it's going to take her some time to get to the same degree of shamelessness..

At last Sapna bought some outrageous nightwear declaring that now that she was here she was struck with the idea of ' spicy naughty night ' !. Ridhhima closed her ears to rest of the details..

But nevertheless she did got what she was looking for.. Something she was sure would blow him away. All she waited now was for the evening...

Armaan patted his back, sighing contentedly. He just outdid himself.. A glance at the watch told that it was time he escorted his princess back.. Moving towards the door he glanced around for the last time. Everything was perfect.. It had to be. After all, today his princess will become.. His Queen.

Her eyes twinkled with happiness.. There he stood, leaning on the car arms folded.. tie hanging loose, collar button left open and sleeves rolled up to elbows. The cool evening breeze playing with his silky hair sprayed them all over his forehead rousing a desire to run her fingers in them. To straighten, or mess them further was another thing. She stood there, gaze riveted at her prince charming who was glancing at his watch impatiently unaware that his princess was watching him, trying to control that heart beat of hers that skipped a beat whenever he was around.. in thoughts or in person, didn't matter..

He might have appeared to others, standing there, with that cool casual look like a most contented man.. yet, only his heart knew how desperate he was to see his life again.. And if he was aware of the second, third and continuous glances that passing by nurses and female doctors were giving him, including many men ( no guys, not in a gay way ! Okay some did that, but you got the point now come back to the story yaar ).. then he didn't gave a clue.. that enigmatic smile wasn't helping either.. Ridhhima noticed nurses, lady docs.and probably some visitors trying to fix themselves thinking he was looking in their direction.. But they missed that dreamy look in his eyes that she knew so well.. He wasn't here.. He was somewhere else.. Thinking about something.. Looking for something.. rather someone, whose thought brought that smile on his face.. And she pretty much knew who it could be.

The line of thought was broken when a nurse who had her eyes fixed on him, collided with her.. Ridhhima shook her head, steading the poor soul who apologized sheepishly before running away, embarressed at being caught red handed ogling someone else's husband.. Ridhhima supressed a grin, how can she blame them hubby dearest was just too magnetic.. But she wasn't bothered ,coz she knew.. That smile was for her.. Those eyes were for her.. And he was only for her.. Like she was for him..

Deciding to disillusion the 'Barbie team', adorning a rosy smile, that came all naturally now-a-days, she closed the distance between them,.. Armaan saw her coming and instantly his face lit up with a billion dollar smile.. Exhaling a sigh he wondered, could she get any more beautiful ! The lovely smile that enchanted him ,the rosiness on her cheeks that just make him want to touch them, kiss them.. those eyes that captivated him instantly... He was too lost to notice that she was just inches away.. her beautiful fragrance made her presence felt.. and before his mind could process anything else.. She wrapped him in an instant loving hug. People around ? Ha ! Like she gave a damn.. Gosh ! she didn't realize how much she'd missed him, until now.. a soft sigh escaped her lips feeling his arms around her, reciprocating what she was longing for.. His love.. His touch..

" I missed you.." she said

" You have no idea how much.." he whispered " I love you "

Planting a soft kiss on his cheek she whispered back " love you too.." his eyes sparkled with happiness, she saw that, and couldn't have asked for anything better.

It was then she felt something soft and cold touching her back, but before she could ask he broke away a little and presented her a lovely bouquet of her favourite orchids. Her eyes lit up " oh Armaan, they are beautiful ! "

" Not as much as you are " she chuckled but was too overwhelmed with emotions to give any reply. Holding the flowers close she hugged him back lovingly. " sweetheart.. I know how much you love hugging me and trust me I don't mind a bit but.. Can we take this somewhere private.. These people are staring at us " he said pointing through eyes at some on lookers

She tilted up her head and supressed a smile. He had a sheepish smile on his lips, wary of the glances they were receiving " so you care about people more than me ? " she cocked up a brow teasing him.

" Absolutely not ! " smiling naughtily he pulled her close " But you see the thing is, I don't think that I'd be able to control myself for long.. Given the fact that I have my beautiful wife in my arms.. and all my surprises would go waste " Ridhhima's mouth fell open. He never left a chance to tease her. She broke away huffing trying to hide her blush but was it possible..?

Then almost hiding her from other's view he opened the door for her.. she was about to sit when suddenly something surprised her.. There, on the front seat sat a lovely stuffed toy lion with a heart shaped basket full of chocolates hanging from his mouth. It carried a note " For my Sweetheart "

She was still admiring the cute lion when he spoke up " I thought of teddy bears first but they are way too common, then saw him and thought he's more like me.. Isn't it ? and got him. " he said in a matter of fact tone " so ,do you like it ? " masking apprehension with ,what he thought, logic. He actually wasn't sure of this.. Being unconventional..

She sighed, what can she do with this man.. Lions and love ! It was the first time she was seeing anyone making that sort of connection but then if it had been usual it wouldn't have been Armaan. It wasn't his style. And lions.. Well they are, the real one's, bit scary but she had to admit, stuffings made them look way too cute. And safe. Like this one.

Her eyes met his, he was waiting for her reply.. Her approval.. She cupped his face and planted a soft kiss on his cheek again " I love it " and she wasn't lying..

But a soft groan from him surprised her " ok, that's it. let's move away from here before you totally get out of control.. Ab jo bhi karna ho car main kar lena ,I promise I won't stop you " he said adding a shameless naughty wink. Her mouth fell open, here she is expressing her love and all he could think of is to find the other meaning in her words. Her eyes widened with the implication of his words but then just ended up blushing.. Some things are beyond repair and he was just one of them.

" You're such a besharam ! " she chided, like this could reform him. " hey, wait a sec. ! " he was about to close the door when she called out suddenly. She almost forgot to pick up those special shopping bags.. Grabbing them quickly she pushed them down at the back seat, away from his prying eyes.

Seconds later he took his seat " hey what's in those bags ? " he tried reaching them " oww "

Got a smack instead " Don't touch them mister " she warned

" But what's so special ? Where did they come from ? " he was still curious

" Wo.. I went shopping today " she said casually ,avoiding to meet his gaze

" Shopping ?! I thought you were at the hospital treating poor patients. What's with women and shopping ! oww, stop hitting me woman ! " he rubbed his shoulder

" You deserve it. And BTW you were suppose to be in the office ,not at some stuff toy shop " she switched back

" But I did this all for you ! and I was working. Very hard " she rolled her eyes hiding that she was really touched with this sweet gesture, but again his curiosity took over " so is there anything for me ?? " he asked eagerly, all smacks forgotton

She gave up. He wouldn't let it rest, smiling mysteriously she said " yes and no.."

He frowned " what does this mean ? "

" You'll see jaan ,you'll see.. It's a surprise " she winked grinning naughtily, that totally floored him.

Popping in a chocolate ,she slipped closer putting another in his mouth, he gladly accepted " you know honey, what's better than chocolate..? " she shrugged " chocolate syrup. deliciously deadly.. Especially when.." he smiled suggestively..

It took a moment to sink in " Armaann, stop it. Will you ! " she dared not to look up lest he discovered that she just imagined it.. Though she had a feeling he already knew.

" Okay okay, I was just kidding " he wasn't " Sooo.." he asked provocatively

" So what ?? " she looked up questioningly

" Aren't you going to tell me now what's in the bags.." he tried again

" No.." came the flat reply

" No ?! Why ?? "

" Because I said no. That's why.."

" But you can atleast tell me if there's something for me ? "

" Unhun like I said before, yes and no.."

" Yaar Ridhhima what's this yaar, see I got you all your favourites, you know how long it took me to decide on this lion then to hand pick all the chocolates, that you've already half devoured " she scowled, stuffing another one " and you're not even telling me if that thing or things are for me or not.."

Ridhhima chuckled at his scowling face, forgetting her own she kissed his cheek in return " Jaan don't push it okay.. I'll tell you when the time comes.." He opened his mouth to protest but she placed her finger on his lips quietening him.. " Not a word now. Just drive. I want to go home " She shifted closer leaning her head on his shoulder again, putting an end to his queries in her style.. She couldn't wait to see his face when she..

And now she blushed.. Thank god he wasn't able to see her face or his super charged brain must've surely gussed it.. He grumbled for a while but soon her closeness calmed him down.

" Armaan where are you huh ? You missed the turn " she pointed out

" No, this is the right way.." she wasn't sure " sweetheart I know you seriously effect my attention but trust me I am not delirious " she still looked confused " don't think too much, we're going somewhere else "

" Somewhere else ?? Kahan ? "

" You'll see jaan ,you'll see.. It's a surprise " he grinned at her you-just-stole-my-dialogue look. But she didn't push it.. The start was awesome and wanted to keep up the excitement.. She just loved his surprises, they always left her feeling that extra special..

He drove on and soon they were on the outskirts of the city, the green feilds took over concrete jungle and the air felt fresh and cool.. The weather was lovely and sun too by that time had toned down handing over the charge to the beautiful silvery orb eager to make his way home.. Just like they were..

Thanks to the automatic gear shift system driving with an arm around her wasn't that difficult, both dreamt with open eyes of the one in their arms..

But the lovely moment was broken with a sudden declaration that she was in love with someone else too. His heart nearly stopped at that but he breathed in again when she rushed out coming back with someone unexpected.. It was a baby goat !

They had to stop because that baby goat chose the exact moment to come before their car when he was thinking of stealing a kiss ,with his no less than 100 relatives. Ridhhima flushed his plans for a kiss not only by running out but also by declaring her love for the baby. He groaned inwardly, wasn't Leo enough.. But thank god the love didn't last long, apparently it was one sided. Soon baby goat's mother came to claim her child. Ridhhima had to let him go, but not before he'd captured this sweet moment in his camera.. Making a memory for the lifetime..

They finally reached their destination, stopping at a huge iron gate " Armaan aren't you going to tell me now where we are ? " she tried again, her efforts before were all in vain.

" Of course sweetheart " she was surprised, was he finally telling her something " this is our stop for the next two days " he said pointing to the gates that were slid open by two smartly dressed guards who saluted them in army fashion. She looked around the place as he drove in. Her heart singing ' Two days '...

The place was huge with a lush green ground in front, an ideal place for an in house cricket match.. She could see Rahul and Armaan running between the wickets.. Or to laze around in the sun or for a fun get together with friends.. images of Sapna Chirag Aditi Rohan Swati Nikita and bickering Armaan and Abhimanyu flashed before her, bringing a dreamy smile. she looked around observing the place, there were rows of trees running by the boundary walls and she was sure of another landscape patch behind the house ,the square structure that stood in the middle. Beautiful flowers marked the borders along side the garden and the gravel path which lead to a marble fountain, right in front of the porch, of a lady carrying a pitcher from which water gushed out filling the small pond where fishes danced merrily. The driveway was spacious enough to accomodate no less than 50 cars..

But what held her gaze was the two story building. Painted white it felt like home.. A calm welcoming place that instantly gave a cozy feeling with a sense of relaxation.. The spacious balconies hung out of what must be the rooms adding to its vastness.. A blend of old and contemporary architechture it was all in all.. beautiful.

She was still lost in surroundings when he called out " so princess, what do you think of your castle ? "

" Armaan where are we ? "

" This sweetheart is our farmhouse, we normally use it for family outings and small parties. Best place to relax without any disturbance " he smiled getting out, coming to her side he opened the door for her " may I ? " offering her an arm which she gladly accepted and both moved in.

The servents at the door bowed low welcoming them and opened the heavy oak doors.. A step inside and surprising her was the shower of rose petals.. The way in was paved with rose petals too with Welcome written with yellow among red.. Too lost for words she admired the flower shower and decoration around, breathing in the fragrant air till she felt his arm around her shoulder " All for you sweetheart.. All for you " she met his gaze her eyes misty with love, she must've done done something really good in her previous life to get him " heyy no crying " he held her close. She nodded smiling, checking the mist in eyes " This is.. Beautiful. I love you.. " he planted a soft kiss on her head " I love you too "

This wasn't all ,soon there came a man with two others in tow carrying trays of refreshments.. He was probably the butler going by his dressing style " welcome your highness.. Sir " he bowed to both " would you care for some refreshments ? " he asked smiling politely.

Ridhhima on the other hand was surprised 'Your highness ??', she could just manage a polite smile " thank you Arvind " Armaan took two glasses handing one to her.Reading the question in her eyes he whispered " well, you are my princess, you deserve to be treated like one " that cleared the confusion. She smiled, he must have told everyone that she was someone royal considering most of them weren't in house staff. Turning to still waiting butler he said " that was nice Arvind " the butler seemed happy to hear that " may I show you the rooms sir ? "

" No thanks, I will manage. You just take care of the things I told you before " the butler again bowing low wishing the 'highness' went away with other servents. He turned to find her smiling, " what ?? "

" So this is why you were in such a hurry to leave in the morning " he grinned, guilty as charged.

" This is nothing " she raised her brow, there was more ? " but before that you take some rest " moving behind her he swung her up in his arms " Armaaann ! " she gasped " Kya kar rahe ho ? Put me down " wrapping her arms around his neck she held him tight for support.

" Should I ? Really ? " he flashed his naughty smile, easily seeing through her half hearted request. It was probably that soft sigh that gave away her secret delight at being swept away like that..

" No.. Don't " resting her head on his chest she blushed giving in, this was way better than walking.

" Exactly what I thought. I don't want my sweetheart to get tired." and carrying her in his arms he made way to the stairs..

Both were in their own heavens, he'd longed for the opportunity to hold her close again.. to taste those rosy lips and for much much more.. Her little teasers in the car didn't let his mind rest for a second.

But before that, he wanted to see her reaction to all his surprises. he tried his best to make it special for her, unlike anything before.. Her happiness after all meant everything to him.. He did got his reward seeing that beautiful smile on her face.. And what he wouldn't do to keep it there for forever.. Yes, he promised himself that instant, he will keep her happy at all costs.. Love her till the last breath, Protect her from any harm.. Any pain in the world.. She is his life and meant more than his life...

Few steps and a short walk later they stood before a door. She did the honours of opening it, his hands being occupied.. " Armaan atleast now put me down " he didn't wanted to, but had to. No reasons left. They should've added few more steps or made a longer corridor, he thought.

Standing in the room her eyes observed the surroundings. It was simple but choicely decorated, professional decorator marked everywhere.. It was quiet spacious with a balcony on the opposite right side with the view of front garden, it was open and cool breeze flowed in playing with her hair.. There was a desk near the wall that ran along side it. A vase full of beautiful lilies smiled at her.. On the left was a queen size bed with contemporary dark mahogany side tables with lamps that went beautifully with beige and pastel green theme of the room.. There was a small passage too which she took, led to the bathroom.

The room was elegant enough but.. Something was missing.. She was rather expecting... Something more. Probably the romantic in her which was very active these days, all thanks to him, thought of flowers and an inviting cozy bed and.. Like wise. Something that had personal touch, like what was downstairs. not that he hadn't worked hard on making her feel special but didn't he said ' surprises ' that's plural you see but...

She was just wondering when his arms wrapped her from behind, nuzzling her neck he planted soft kisses " so, nice view ? " she rested back on his chest running a hand in his hair " hmm it's beautiful "

She could feel him smiling. Turning her around he cupped her face caressing her rosy cheeks " yes, it's really beautiful "

For a moment they held each others gaze and then, his lips covered hers in a lovely kiss...

With his lips moving over hers everything else.. Every thought was wiped off her mind.. Their tongues danced together on the music of their heatbeat singing of love and longing and.. Desire. He pulled her closer running his hands on her back enticed by her soft fingers on his nape and hair.. There was enough heat to set something ablaze.. Slowly her hands moved in front successfully opening two buttons of his shirt driving him even more crazy.. And he.. Well he couldn't thank enough the person who invented saari.. His hands caressed her delicate waist ,lips sensuously moving over her shoulder and neck.. Her fragrance drove him crazy and longing for more.. he trailed above and cupped her breast making her gasp but then neither seem to had control..

With every passing second the desire.. The craving instead of sating got feirce. Armaan feared of losing not only his senses but also the control which he'd so meticulously forced upon himself.. But then he'd have lost himself if it wasn't for this small voice at the back of his mind that continuosly warned him from going any further...

But it was so difficult ! Here she was. All so beautiful.. Wonderful.. Kissing him with all the love in the world and her touch gosh !.. Yet.. Yet this stupid voice was asking him to back off !!

What a spoiler !

He tried to brush it off and continue but that voice spoke up again much clearer this time " fruit of patience is always sweet Armaan "

" Damn ! " he cursed. The voice now had a shape. A very miniscule himself floating in the air. Everything was the same except there were two of them ! One wore a gown, white, had wings carried a star tipped stick and the other was a baldy with two red horns and a fork like thing in hand. He just wore a loin cloth and had a tail !. The man in the gown urged to stop while the horny guy. No pun intented. Urged to go on..

" Armaan you idiot ! Can't you see she want you. Go ahead. Grab the opportunity. You never know about women, they change their mood faster than chameleon it's colours ! " " hmm, that's kind of true " Armaan mused ,boy ! Did that man's horns just caught fire !

" Armaan " there came the gown man " don't listen to him. He just compared your soulmate to a chameleon ! "

" How can they be soulmate without mating, my mate " said the tail man, his sarcasm clear in his words but the gown man chose to ignore him.

" Trust me Armaan if you go by your initial plans she'll love you even more for it and you'll experience bliss "

" Don't listen to him Armaan. I doubt if he's a man at all. take her right now "

" Now now Armaan. Be a gentleman not a beast like him. Think about love "

" Your very name spells desire. Stand up to it " baldy stepped ahead

" Patience Armaan "

" Opportunity Armaan "

" Love Armaan "

" Desire Armaan "

" He's lusty ! "

" Oh get outta here !, don't listen to him, he's frusty " baldy lost his cool

" Frusty ?! " " yeah, it rhymes doesn't it. Psycho ! "

The gown man shook his head pitifully " listen to me Armaan how can you believe a man who roams about in loin cloth "

" Atleast I have 8 pack abs to show " he sneered pointing them proudly

" So do I, they are just covered in baby fat "

" Told you this nerd is gay " he whispered loud enough for him to hear

" Hey I heard that ! " that was too much even for him

" Good. It was meant to " " really ! Beast ! " and with that they started poking each other with their staff and stick

Armaan had had enough " oh stop it you two ! " he shouted out, startling Ridhhima

" Huh, stop what ? Who two ? " breaking the embrace she looked around to find the reason of his yelling but everything was quiet like before..

He quickly changed into damage control mode. Thanks to those two, the moment was broken. " uh, sorry

Honey, just silly worked up mind "

" Armaan are you okay ? " she checked his forehead worried " I'm okay honey. You go and freshen up. I'll just go and check if everything is ready for the dinner " planting a quick kiss he almost pushed her in the bathroom before she decided to fix an appointment with a psychiatrist. Closing the door behind he exhaled deeply, he'd almost lost himself in there. Talk about disadvantages of having a beautiful hot wife !

" Focus Armaan. Focus. Don't you want to make her happy ? You do. Now get back to work " reminding himself of the mission ahead he went away to check if everything was in order for the special night.

The winged gown man appeared again with an ear to ear smile. The red tail appeared too, only to disappear with a puff ! And oh, he said stupid before that.

On the other hand Ridhhima wondered what just happened. A moment ago they were kissing each other passionatly and it seemed it wouldn't just stop there but then he suddenly yells and disappears. Weird. For a moment she was worried but he seemed okay. Still wondering she looked around, anything she required was there and honestly, that warm water in the bathtub was soo inviting that everything else was instantly forgotten... Shaking off the doubts she got ready to enjoy a long relaxing bath.

Stepping out after spending good 45 minutes ( you know it now, our female lead is a bath addict ) she felt rejuvenated. Wrapped in soft white bath robe she wondered what to wear, their coming here was a surprise and she didn't even had anything to change into.

Well, she was wrong.

With a big smile on her face she took quick steps to the bed. There, waiting for her was a gorgeous dress with a note ' My queen's attire ' her smile got broader. Now why in the world she has to worry for anything when he's there.

The dress was beautiful, her eyes praised it heartily. After all how many men have an eye or imagination to pick things like this for their wives. The colour was his favourite - Red and had Armaan written all over it. She remembered he brought a sari for her when they went to their first unofficial date to Mr and Mrs Paul's party.. Plus didn't he said that he hand picked the lion and the chocolates and the flowers so why not the dress. Of course it was another of his 'hard day's efforts' result. She hugged the dress wishing it was him... Heart swelled with love she craved to hold him in her arms and tell him that she was crazily deeply totally in love with him..

Her sweet moment was interrupted by a knock on the door. " right on time ! " jumping excitedly she rushed to the door, all in a mood to thank him with a tight hug and a special kiss.

" Now where.." she stopped " who are you ? " disappointed and surprised seeing two unfamiliar faces.

" Uh, your highness " she sighed, there they go again ' your highness' but dismissed the idea of correcting them. She might just as well get used to of it. " we were asked to assist you.. If you need our help.." Ridhhima gave them her X-ray look. They looked professional though bit hesitant after 'the look', apparently they haven't been in assistance to any 'Royalty' before and she just might have some work for them. Ridhhima allowed them in with all their paraphernalia still wishing it was him..

Few minutes later she was all ready to bedazzle her prince charming. The appreciative awestruck look of the assistants was proof that she was ready to kill. The dress was soft shimmering red that stopped at her knees. It had thin straps that left most of her milky skin with good hint of cleavage for the view. It enhanced her curves enough to make anyone's imagination go wild. Her hair were left loose with curls dropping on the shoulders and pair of delicate sandel adorned her soft feet..

Boy ! Armaan Malik was in for a big surprise..

But all this while she had only one thing in her mind. Where was he ?. Since he left he didn't even came once and now she was worried, though the girls told her that they saw him around but still..

As the assistants took leave there came a messenger telling her that she was expected downstairs.

Ridhhima wondered what he was up to now. Taking a deep breath she checked herself in the mirror once again, the smile was back on her face but this time there were butterflies in her stomach. It felt like going on a date for the first time, she was eager, anxious excited all in one. " here I come sweetheart. Be ready "

Armaan waited impatiently at the foot of the staircase. He had to rush through the last minute checking, everything should be in order today, perfect for his queen. Clad in the elegance of a black suit he personified the phrase 'drop dead handsome'. It was happening again, the clock was again moving slowly. He glanced at the watch when a soft beat of footsteps caught his attention and he instantly knew that his wait was over.

His eyes darted at the landing above and what he saw made him forget to breathe.

There stood his queen ,his life with her beautiful dazzling smile. And did his eyes lit up or she was really glowing.. His eyes refused to leave her, following every step as she closed the distance between them..

Ridhhima's smile widened, the look on his face confirmed the effect she wanted. His gaze brought colour to her cheeks and her eyes lowered on their own accord, unable to bear that passionate gaze. Though she wanted to keep looking at him.. Her prince charming.. Her life.. Looking devilishly handsome, she had hard time controlling herself fighting the mad desire to wrap him in a hug and kiss to her hearts fill.. His very presence fanned the carnal desires in her heart.. Not that he felt any different..

" Armaan.." she stood before him yet he didn't utter a word " kuch bologe nahi," she looked down at herself " do I look okay ? "

He took a step closer, her words brought him out of his trance " Okay, is not the word for you my love.. Infact, I couldn't find anything to compliment you with " he whispered planting a soft kiss on her cheek " you look beautiful..stunning. But.." he took a step back looking her from head to toe " something's missing..."

Instantly a frown came over ,she checked what was missing curses at the tip of her tongue she wanted everything perfect yet.. But then was surprised again.. While she was busy checking herself he placed a diamond necklace around her bare neck. Before she could make out what happened he took her to the nearby mirror enveloping her in his arms from behind, putting his chin on her shoulder " looks more beautiful this way.. And I'm not talking about you " he planted a soft kiss on her shoulder, quiet happy surprising her. She glowed, the necklace was exquisite and went perfectly with the dress. his eyes gleamed seeing her smile. But she was too overwhelmed to utter a word... Turning around in his arms she cupped his face and kissed his cheek " thank you, its beautiful "

He couldn't have asked for anything better. Seeing her happy was all he wanted " Sweetheart, this is nothing compared to you. And next time. No thank you. Just say you love me "

Her eyes turned misty " I love you. Very very very much "

" That's better " interwining her fingers with his he held her close " but no crying okay. Today, just be happy and I promise you happier tomorrows " She knew he will, like always keep his promise. He kissed her eyes wiping away the tears. " now shall we ? There's something that awaits my fair lady " she nodded and both made way to the other surprise.

Her day of surprises had just begun. He led her through a corridor which glowed with beautiful starry lights. The floor was covered with balloons and the ceiling had archs of flowers that glowed in different lights. She was amazed at how much he had planned and done. Mesmerized, she was lost in surroundings and if he hadn't been holding on to her hand she'd have thought it to be a dream.. A beautiful dream which she never wanted to end..

The corridor lead to the big oak doors, again beautifully decorated " now there's something for you. I hope you like it " with that the doors slid open and the soft music, whose source she couldn't locate, flowed out. Stepping in she let out a soft gasp, her eyes widened with amazement at the scene before her.

He followed her in. A wide smile playing on his lips. His efforts had paid off. The large ballroom was converted into something like heaven.. The ceiling twinkled with with stars and some seem to reach down to her.. The floor had light mist like clouds with balloons and the air was fragrant with flowers.. All her favourite.

But what caught her eyes was the display of pictures. Her pictures.. Their pictures.. Some of which she didn't even knew were clicked. All enlarged and highlighted with lights and framed in flowers..

If she thought this was all then she was wrong ,coz right before her was a canopied area lighted with.. Was that a moon !!?.. The light that was thrown on the table came from something that looked exactly like moon. The table was set for two and vase in the center had flowers glowing like small stars shooting out of it..

She was beyond amazed seeing everything around. Thoughts flooded but speech failed her. The heart unable to contain the love formed drops of happiness in her eyes. Armaan waited till she had seen all, slowly he walked up to her " so, did my princess like it ? "

She turned around wrapping him in a tight embrace, tipping up a little she looked into his eyes probably her eyes could say what her lips couldn't.. It worked, he could see his answer in her eyes. She opened her mouth to say something but just couldn't formulate anything apart from " I love you.. I love you so much " she whispered, that was all he wanted to hear.. He knew everything.. Could feel everything those words wanted to convey. Gently he wiped off her tears. Words were still absent.. Cupping his face in her palms she draw him close and placed her lips on his...

The kiss conveyed everything what words could not..

It was sometime before they broke up.. The kiss was gentle and brimmed with pure love.. " I'll take this as you like the decoration " she chuckled feeling much lighter and full of happiness " yes you may.. But Armaan.. This is amazing " she looked around " I mean I don't know what to say, its just soo out of the world beautiful ! And when did you take these pictures ?? "

" Oh I was just practising stalking you see " she rolled her eyes at his grin " actually, I fell in love with you at the first sight so since day one I've been trying to capture as much of you as I can. I didn't wanted to miss anything you see " he rested his chin on her shoulder.

" Hmm I can see you didn't miss much of me " she nodded approvingly quiet impressed and planted a kiss on his cheek " now can we eat ? I am starving "

He gladly escorted his queen to the table drawing up a chair like a perfect gentleman and then arrived their 7 course meal..

Unwilling to stay away, no matter how small a distance, she shifted next to him. Now which man is going to complain if his wife wishes to sit next to him. Not forgetting the 'rule' she fed him making him ecstatic. Who needed food, he was already full of love !

For a moment he ate quietly, glancing at her with a mysterious smile playing on his lips, like he was meditating upon something. " hey, what are you thinking ? " she asked

" Nothing... Just that how beautiful you look.. And how jealous I am " she looked questioningly " of this necklace..."

She touched her necklace pointing to her clevage, a blush crept on her cheeks comprehending his words but was saved from saying anything as they were served the dessert. A welcome diversion as she felt hot under his gaze " you know.. all these things here " she looked around " they feel like I am on a beach in heaven just without water "

" You like beaches ? "

" Like ? I love them ! I can like live forever there " she said excitedly " once we went for a holiday to Goa and it was awesome.. The starry sky cool breeze " she sighed dreamily

" Hmm. But as you see we're in a non sea side area I made some 'arrangement' " her lips curved in an amused smile. Now what's coming next.. was all she could think " wait a sec. " he called the butler who went away with a curious smile and nod. She didn't had to wait for long coz moments later soft cold breeze tickled her skin and then came the musical sound of waves crashing on the shore. " Armaan ?? " her brows cocked up in wonder, he just gave her another reason to love and praise him some more. He definitely had a Phd. in giving surprises. " Anything for my queen " he kissed her cheek getting one in return only greater in intensity. And though there was wine yet he was intoxicated long before he touched it.

" Huh, I am so full " she declared scooping the last bite of the pie. Complimenting the chef and the butler she turned to him " so, what's next ? "

" Now we proceed for some entertainment. How about a movie ? "

" A movie ?! Of course ! " taking his arm she moved on for the next delight, seperated with a starry curtain was a portion of the ballroom. Right in front was a big screen, a comfortable cozy couch with a big bowl of popcorn and soda glasses waiting for them.

She sat by his side with her head resting on his chest hands wrapped around each other.. And though Shahrukh and Kajol tried their best they could not get the attention of these two. If they were feeling kuch kuch these two were feeling bahut kuch !

" Aww what a cute kid. I always liked him " she gushed over little sardar kid in the movie

" Cute ! That's a cunning little fellow. See what tantrums he's throwing, not saying a word " how can she like anyone beside him ! So what if its some kid on tv.

" Armaan that's not called throwing tantrums " she shook her head. He knew nothing about kids !

" Yeah, right ! Wait till you get some real tantrum kids "

She blushed at the thought but somehow felt strange happiness at that comment, controlling herself she continued " none of our kids are going to throw tantrums " how can they with such adorable father.

" They just might. Their mother throws them all the time " he added with a naughty grin. She'd forgot who she was dealing with and he got a playful hit for that " control princess. If you're going to lose your temper so easily then how you'll manage 6 kids ! "

Now that brought a stop to the beautiful dream " what ?? Six ! "

" Yeah, at least 6 and it's minimum and non negotiable " he cleared

" You wish Mr. Malik " she rested back on his chest " 2. And that's final " she smiled

But he wasn't giving up so easily. So, to settle the question they decided on a game. Blinkers. They would stare into each others eyes and first one to blink would lose.

Sitting opposite each other they started. It was tough, considering who they were looking at. A minute later she found the distance between them was getting less and less and before she could understand completely it got all covered up. His lips claimed hers in a lovely kiss.. with her before his eyes how was he supposed to remember anything else.

It was sometime before she could catch her breath " you cheated " she whispered. Bit hoarse, her heart still fluttering.

" Everything is fair in love my love " he pecked her lips again squeezing her in his embrace. Pulling back a little he looked into her eyes " can I have a dance with the most beautiful girl in the universe ? " and kissed the hand resting on his chest. Could she say no to him ? Never.

The soft music floated in. It was her favourite. John Denver's ' You fill up my senses '

" It was left somewhat incomplete that day.. Lets start all over again."

sweeping her in his strong arms he carried her out. Lost in his eyes, intoxicated with his muscular smell she didn't even notice when they came out of the ballroom and where they were heading.

A soft golden glow distracted her from her favourite sight. They were in a room, not the one she was in before. Slowly he put her down, her eyes scanned the place. The golden glow came from the candles that filled the room with light and soothing aroma. Outside, the full moon covered everything in its shimmering moonlight it's reflection in the still water of the pool beyond small balcony gave the impression of its being on earth rather than in the sky.. On the right side a king size bed awaited the masters for its possession, covered in silky white sheets sprinkled with rose petals it raised her heartbeat in a glance.. Right opposite was a fireplace, two large chairs before it looked comfortable and left space quiet enough to sit and cuddle up with the special one. The fire blazing out and.. within. The thought brought the butterflies back. With vengence.

A soft firm touch broke her chain of thoughts. He stood behind enveloping her in his embrace " Welcome home Mrs. Malik " he whispered kissing her cheek. It was indeed some welcome, beyond her imagination..

His touch sent shivers down her spine. Turning in his arms she met his gaze.. His eyes.. They seem to blaze in the glow of candlelight ..

" Nervous ? " he asked pushing back her curls. His fingers brushing through her neck sent another electrifying jolt in her body, the simple brush of fingers the light touch.. Nothing was same, everything was magnified with him by her side. Her shiver didn't go unnoticed " are you okay ? Look honey, if you don't feel like it then.."

She jerked out of her thoughts. What gave him the idea that she didn't wanted him.. Or this ! Every minute she'd thought of nothing else but the moment they would be together, united as one. But it seemed he misinterpreted her silence " what made you think so ? " she cut him in between " don't you want me ? " she asked, though knew the answer.

" Oh sweetheart," he tightened his hold, the touch itself gave the answer but she wanted to hear it from him " you have 'no' idea how much I want you.. But more than that I want you to be ready, not push it for just the sake of it. I can wait.."

She decided few things were required to be cleared right now. Cupping his face she whispered firmly " but I don't want to " her other hand that rested on his chest could feel his heart thumping madly. His eyes shouted of his heart's desire.

" Are you sure ? " he asked, still testing his control. But now she didn't had any over herself. She wanted him. Now. Everything else nervousness, butterflies, anxiety..disappeared. Looking into his eyes she never felt so sure of anything else. Yes, he was hers and it was time she claimed him completely. Looking deep into his eyes she brought his face closer and captured his lips in a passionate kiss..

No other confirmation was required. In an instant everything was answered...

Soon the kiss heated up. He nibbled on her lower lip hungrily. Tasting of wine he intoxicated her even further. He deepend the kiss leaving her aching for more and yet fulfilled. Breaking a little for air she saw glimmer of his smile ,her nerves fluttered through her once more. He looked amazing.. killing with that hunger dancing in his eyes... Her hands worked on their own accord and soon freed him of his jacket and tie. Not getting enough of him her fingers trailed up and down his back drawing him close and to the edge.. his lips trailed down to her bare shoulders running the length of arms, sending shivers down her spine and though his hands felt cold on her heated skin they kindled a fire wherever they touched..

His sensuous touch on her bare back created ripples of unknown feelings. Every passing second her hunger grew fierce. With pounding heart and bated breath she waited for his next move..

Drawing her close his lips didn't leave a spot.. Her firm breasts crushed on his chest rousing him instantly.. glancing at her face.. A soft smile came on his lips.. Everything about this woman brought life in him, her smile her smell the way she chewed on her bottom lip slightly when nervous or anxious, her perfect curves which gave him hard time to control himself making his imagination go wild... And now, after all he's been through.. they've been through.. She was here with him.. As his.. For forever..

She felt him stop for a moment but before senses could register anything he was kissing her again, leaving a trail up to her neck and chest.. His hand worked deftly and she felt a slow sensual tug on the zipper of her dress pulling it down till his hand rested on the small of her back..

Her breath hitched, she held his shoulders tight for her legs started to feel rubbery.. His fingers getting more access to her soft back roamed sensuously all over. She never knew that back could be such an erotic part of the body, it was seriously effecting her senses.. He didn't break the touch and kissing slowly, slid the straps of the dress down the shoulders...

She shifted smiling in her sleep, feeling weightless, soft brightness was all around.. But then something strong went around her waist, it broke her not-that-deep sleep.. Also the moist soft touches on his cheek and neck tingled her to waking up... Her heart knew that touch, that hold.. Who else it could be.. Shifting back a little she rested her back on his firm chest, spooned in his embrace.. She slowly opened up her eyes to the one she always wanted..

" Hey, good morning " tilting her head she pecked his lips. The day brightened with his smile " good morning my queen " he brushed his lips again, not getting enough

" Didn't you sleep ? " she turned over caressing his face, it looked rather fresh

" Hmm " he caressed her hair " I wanted to but there's someone who didn't let me sleep a wink "

She raised a brow at his naughty grin " 'I' didn't let you sleep ?! "

" Yupp " his fingers ran down her arm to her back sensuously pulling her close ,bringing colour to her cheeks " you have no idea how beautiful last night was.. How beautiful you are " he brushed his lips on hers, moving to her chest caressing the love marks with his lips..

" Armaaann " she whispered " it's morning " his charm was working again but as he pulled her closer she felt something hard.. The colour on her cheeks deepened " you're not thinking of.."

" You mean going for another round " blushing profusely she nodded, making imaginary patterns on his chest " I didn't knew people made love at this rate "

He chuckled " normally, I don't think so. No, they don't. But you my love, inspire me " he kissed the hand running on his chest " and trust me 4 times a night is not usual but, with you everything turns out to be super best " wrapping his arm around he rolled over pinning her beneath, making her very aware of their condition under the sheets.

" Okay Mr. Inspired superbest, as much as I love to 'inspire' you, my sore muscles are kind of inspired for a break " she kissed his cheek giggling shyly

" Huhh " he sighed dramatically slumping down on her chest " there goes my breakfast in bed "

" Hey ! Who said about not having breakfast " his head jerked up " but how about we first freshen up for that " She winked, flooring him. In an instant he was out of bed. She cried out in surprise. They were still stark naked.

The next moment, she was in his arms " I don't think you want to starve your hubby dearest. So lets save time." not waiting for the reply he moved to the bathroom.. After all breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

Moments passed washing away the heated senseless passion leaving behind the blissful feeling inside.. Lying there with head resting on his chest she called " Armaan.."

" Hmm " he carressed her back lovingly, a soft smile played on his lips.. It was the smile of a happy contented man.

" Plz don't wake me up.."

" Wake you up ? But you aren't sleeping darling " he squeezed her in his embrace

" It seems so.." He looked at her amused " it all feels like a dream.. It's too good to be true, what if I wake up and realize this was all a dream.. A fairy tale.. and I want this to go on forever.." she looked into his eyes

He chuckled kissing her forehead assuringly, wrapping her even tighter " this is not a dream sweetheart. I promise you, this fairy tale will go on forever.. And " she waited " it's only going to get better.. You are forgetting that we still haven't been to our honeymoon " her eyes sparkled at the news. Of course how can she forget, after all she was the one who decided the place. Excitement gripped her heart.. " and trust me there's lot more I've planned to do.. To show.. This my dear was just the beginning.." She blushed and hid herself in his chest feeling the light waves of his soft laugh mingled with the rythm of his heartbeat.. " but for now.. just lie back, be absolutely still and listen... My heartbeat... What it says... Just four words... Ridhhima, I love you..."

He was right, it did sang of it just like her heart was singing his name.. It seemed some fairy tales do come true.. And hers was one of them.

Time seem to fly.. It was sunday already and they would be heading back home soon.. But this time the world had turned around for them, they were soulmates.. of each others in all senses of the world..

A big smile adorned her face, turning her head she found her life sleeping by her side contentedly.. They'd just made love.. Again. She savoured those moments while he slipped into land of nod. She didn't complain, he didn't get much sleep in these two days whereas she just couldn't get any..

She chuckled softly. Her gaze on her life.. holding her with a hand around her waist he glowed in the bright light of noon.. Sprawled on his stomach with covers till his hips, hair tussled, all thanks to her.. She ran her fingers pushing them back from his forehead pouring love through eyes.. he was so strong and now she had the first hand experience.. The thought turned her crimson, now that she got to see him more closely.. Intimately, she noticed so much more, he was broad and rippled with muscles but still looked so cute and innocent in sleep.. The past two days rolled by her eyes.. The welcome was out of the world and then it got surpassed by him..

Unable to hold that overpowering wave of love she shifted closer and planted a soft kiss on his forehead..

His lips curved into a smile, slowly he opened his sleepy eyes to meet her gaze, his smile widened. " so sleepy head woke up " she caressed his face. Exhaling a sigh he shifted closer resting his head on her chest " Armaan, chalo get up.. We got to go back " she added lovingly

He scrunched his nose " Why ? "

" Why ?! Why why ? It's sunday, two days are over. Don't you want to get back home " though she couldn't see she knew he would be frowning

And she was right " do we have to ? Do 'you' want to ? I don't think so, lets stay " he adjusted himself more comfortably squeezing her in his hold

She didn't wanted to either but that wasn't the option right now she'd lots to do. Her surprise was still due " jaan, if we stay here then how're we going to go for honeymoon. I've to do the packing too " it wasn't reason enough

" Mch, that's not the problem. One more day won't hurt "

" Huh, I don't want to leave either but you see jaan.. I have a surprise for you " she had to tell the truth

His eyes popped open " surprise ! For me !!? " he got up resting on the elbow, she nodded " what ? Where ? " she laughed out at his sudden excitement, raising herself a little she looked into his eyes and slid a finger coquettishly down her face " not here sweetheart. At home. I think you'll 'love' it "

His smile widened into a grin " boy, I'm sure I'm going to 'lovee' this one. Lets go back home "

And so they shall return. As one. As soulmates.

Edited by mansibharti - 13 years ago

Quote

Julie

@JULIEL

Inactive

Posted: 13 years ago

#46

Congo on the new thread!! Looking forward to the next update!!

Quote

342047

Suspended

Posted: 13 years ago

#47

This FF is just too damn good! I love it so much that I've actually read ahead! AR are just THE best! Oh and same goes for you! Genius for writing this FF! Love it so much! <3

Quote

mansibharti

@mansibharti

Voyager

+ 5

Posted: 13 years ago

#48

Taming the Wild
Part-68

The Hard Worker

Precap:- Armaan Ridhhima become soulmates.
____________________________________________

He drove on. An arm around her, resting her head on his chest she secured him by his waist.. Life was so beautiful unlike anything before.. Neither uttered a word but silence never spoke so much ever.. Fulfillment contentment something like achievement filled them from within. Both held their precious than life in their arms reliving the past, again.

Ridhhima smiled remembering, still convincing that all was real wondering that can life be so dreamlike beautiful.. What if it turns out to be dream after all ,what if someone tries to snatch it away.. Him away.. From her. The sudden thought scared her, an unknown fear seeped in..

Armaan felt her hand tightening around him, it felt different.. He wondered what caused the reaction, gazing down at her face he was surprised to see her worried.. almost fearful. Concern took over immediately " Ridhhima.. Heyy, what happened ?? " he pulled over by the road side " Ridhhima..look at me.." holding her face in his palms he tilted it up only to see her eyes misty, tears ready to spill any moment " honey what happened ? Are you okay ?? "

Emotions flooded and dam of control cracked, embracing him tightly she spilled out those silent tears.." Armaan.." she sniffed " yes sweetheart.." holding her close he caressed her head waiting for her to speak " I'm scared.."

" Scared ? " he pulled out a little " why Princess, what happened ? Cmmon tell me " wiping off the tears he kissed her forehead assuring her.

" I.. I don't want to lose you " her voice cracked, she was scared to even say it out loud " lose me ? How ?? " she looked into his concerned perplexed eyes " I.. I just had a very bad thought... About us.. That I might.." she gulped

" Lose me " he completed the sentence, the smile returned as she nodded. Taking her in the embrace again he said softly " I know what you must be feeling.. I had the same thoughts too.. Since the day I met you.. I was afraid to lose you but you know now I'm not.. All coz of you " she looked up questioningly " it started going away little by little since you came into my life as mine, took me as yours.. as friend love soulmate.. I thought it was all too perfect and the dream might crash but trust me love as long as we are together this will go on forever.. And I promise you with all my being " he looked into her eyes, his own hardening with resolution " nothing and noone can ever do us apart. I'll be here by your side till I breathe my last "

" Armaan please don't speak like that again.. How can I survive without you.." squeezing him tighter she wiped off her tear on his shirt " I love you "

His smiled broadened seeing her cute face " I love you 2 3 4 .. Infinite..Remember the 7 vows we took together.." she chuckled " 14 to be precise " he grinned softly " I'm going to keep every one of them " she sighed, bit relieved, both knew the more you love a person the more you worry about losing them but one thing was for sure.. Neither of them was leaving the other... Ever.

A soft tinkling of bells caught her attention, her eyes fell on a small temple across the road a little into the fields.. They were still far away from the city and the place seems to call her " Armaan, can we go to that temple please " any other time he might have given an excuse but not today... Whatever makes her happy..

Holding her hand in his he led the way climbing the small flight of stairs.. With every step her assurance got stronger and all the fears of moment ago looked trivial.. Even silly.. He wasn't going anywhere.. She wasn't going to let him.. Her heart filled with love and devotion prayed to god to keep them together that way forever.. Armaan looked at her face, eyes closed hands folded in prayer head bent a little covered in her dupatta.. What would he not do for her.. For her happiness.. His own closed in a prayer asking god to get her whatever she was asking for.. The smile was back again, getting the blessing from the priest they started again on their journey.. To their home..

She couldn't stop from thinking that how the house.. Its people became part of her so intricately and yet she couldn't pinpoint a day, a moment when it actually happened.. It was so subtle that she didn't even notice till it was impossible to live without them.. Smile refuted to leave her face reflecting the happiness of her heart. And amongst everything and everyone four eyes kept stealing glances at each other, Muski's latest gossip BP's fight with Angel Rahul and Virendra's general to world issues and even Martin's witty comments missed them completely.. Taking the seat next to him she suddenly remembered something.. A naughty grin spread on her face and she decided to tease the prankster a bit.. Didn't had to wait long for that, as soon as he put his hand down to adjust the napkin she quickly held his hand in hers.. Just like he did once, surprising him totally.. Incidentally she was sitting on his right side, perfect place, perfect opportunity. His brows shot up at her unexpected naughtiness " Ridhhima what are you doing ? "
" Nothing. Just felt like it " she answered nonchalantly but Armaan obviously wasn't used to of being on the receiving end, he whispered again " Ridhhima sab dekh rahe hain.." actually noone was, they were all busy but not for too long.." so..? " came the indifferent reply " so you aren't going to leave my hand ? "

" No "

" Are you sure ? "

" Absolutely. Think of some other way to eat " She looked straight into his eyes, he could see she was really in a naughty mood but it relieved him to see that she was feeling better now. He gave a broad smile " haaye ,wifey.. Promise me to hold my hand like this and I would never bother with the food ever "

The plan backfired " You're such a shameless person " she let go of his hand " but I'm not "

He grinned " You started it and let me tell you wifey you're going to pay for your naughtiness.. Later.. In my way " he winked making her blush..

Though it was a hush hush conversation someone didn't miss it... Leo was keenly observing the two and the moment she entered the house something told him that Armaan had gained the favour of his fair mistress greatly. Poor dog lost coz he had two extra legs a tail and no speech.. But didn't Armaan used to go all dumb before her wagging his non existent tail and drool like him.. Huh he sighed man's world is so unfair.. Walking upto Armaan, whose eyes were still fixed on Ridhhima, he raised himself on his hind legs resting his paws in Armaan's lap whimpering softly.. Looking straight into his eyes trying to know why the hell he was smiling so much ??.. And what was that hand holding thing about ? Was he trying to steal his lady ? If so he was ready for the challenge..

" Leo ! Get down, no sniffing. bad boy ! " Leo was used to of strict instructions, coz he never followed any and everybody had to yell.. But this one hurt.. Coz this came from his darling mistress. Then he knew he'd lost the war.. Dejectedly he pulled back. Any other day Armaan would have been happy, Ridhhima scolding Leo was rare case scenario but today he knew what to do. The champions are always humble.

" It's okay Ridhhima he just need his walk. I'm done, I'll take him " all the heads turned to his direction, Ridhhima's mouth fell open.. Everybody knew and had witnessed Armaan-Leo duels so Armaan taking Leo for a walk was a shocker ! The only one happy here was Leo ,getting unexpected attention from rival master, he wasn't complaining.. Soon both of them walked out for some man dog talk..

Drawing a chair by the pool Armaan made himself comfortable, Leo sat before him like a disciple waiting to grab the pearls of wisdom from his master..." Leo, my friend.. They say it's a dog's world out there.. But for you I would say it's pretty much still the man's world.." he bent forward holding Leo's face in his hands " you know Ridhhima is mine. Now in every way " poor Leo's heart broke in thousand pieces " but I have a good news for you. The day you come of age I'll get you the best bird out there and then it'll be your dog world again.." now that was the best part of it, Leo wondered why he couldn't say this before no wonder it took him so long to win from me. Always saying the important thing late.. Leo's tail wagged energetically and Armaan knew his message had been delivered. After all there's another saying too.. Men are dogs.

With things clear and settled with Leo he felt impatient to get back to Ridhhima.. Leo's enthusiasm at his future gift reminded him of something.. His gift, he wondered what she could've brought for him. It wasn't too long since he went out and found everyone sitting and chatting in the hall.. He got the opportunity to remind her of his gift as she extended him his glass of milk. " Armaan have patience, don't be greedy " glaring she left him frowning giving him no choice but to wait, everybody was around and he was worried about gift !.. The general discussion turned to business and he didn't realize when the ladies slipped away calling it a day.. Without her around he lost all the interest, desperate to feel her in his arms again he made his way to the room as soon as he could..

His smile broadened when he found her standing with her back to the door, busy looking at something.. Planning to surprise her he tiptoed to see what held her attention.. Craning a little he found himself grinning back, it was his photograph.. Her fingers ran over his face while she smiled thinking.. Obviously about him..

" I think I look more handsome in person " startled she turned around landing straight into his arms " can I have some attention from my lovely wife " he grinned tightening his hold. She first thought of scolding him for scaring her like that but then she was missing him too and as soon as he took her in his arms she forgot everything.. Wrapping an arm around his neck she rested her head on his chest. The best place to be " I love you "

" I love you too.. missed you "

She chuckled pulling back a little " I was with you all the time "

" Not the way I wanted to " his gaze turned intense making her blush " you teased me so much down there, trying to play my act on me.. Thank god it worked.. For me " he grinned at her puzzled look " now it's payback time "

" Arma.." before she could even complete he brushed his lips with hers.. Her heart did that flip flop dance again that it did whenever he touched her. Her eyes closed with sensation while she fisted his shirt pulling him close, inviting, wanting him.. he smiled getting the message but he wasn't going to let go of the opportunity to tease her.. She frowned as she felt his kisses on her cheeks forehead tip of nose the corner of her mouth.. first she waited enjoying the brushes but then how can anyone miss a target as big as someone's mouth ! She knew he was teasing her, avenging for her dinner act enjoying her impatience but she couldn't take it anymore.. His caresses on her skin were driving her crazy.. Well, it was time to take things into her hands or god knows how long she'd have to wait..

Not wasting another second she held his face looking into his surprised eyes, hers twinkled with that same hint of naughtiness this time mixed with passion.. He didn't get much time to be surprised as she took him a deep passionate kiss.. He wasn't complaining, at the moment he was all for women rights.. Let the lady be in-charge and decide..

She smiled through the kiss feeling him getting engrossed completely.. Her fingers threaded his hair as his hand slipped inside her shirt caressing her slender waist pulling her even closer cherishing her luscious lips.. Though she loved the moment but something kept playing in her mind, knowing well that in a moment or two things would turn into something different. And she didn't wanted that.. Not this way..

Armaan frowned, she wasn't like a moment before, she suddenly, it felt, stopped. He was proved right the next second when she pulled out of the kiss..

" Armaan, Wait.." she gasped trying to catch her breath. He couldn't understand why she looked.. excited " let me bring you your present " declaring it with a broad smile

" Present ?? " now where the hell did that come from ! That too in the middle of something so good " Ridhhima.. Now ? I'm sure it's something nice but.. Can we have a look at it later.." he suggested, gosh why did he had to pester her for that present ! He mentally kicked himself.. What a time to bring on the topic..

She just smiled mysteriously and also because he looked cute with that frown " just wait for a minute " pecking his cheek she slipped out of his arms. He sighed, consoling himself " okay Armaan, its okay, she bought that for you.. Just have a look and then, start up again.." his grin returned at the thought.

Pacing around he glanced at the watch impatiently.. She said a minute, now they were ten and she still wasn't back.. taking off his shirt he stood by the window the garden outside was covered with a sheet of shimmering moonlight.. His lips curved in a smile remembering the weekend.. The two days were pure bliss.. And the life ahead looked so beautiful.. Promising..

He was startled when suddenly someone covered his eyes from behind.. But then he instantly recognized the touch.. She was back. " so, are you ready for the surprise ? " she whispered in his ear, the soft sensuous voice sent a wave of excitement running down his body.. she didn't wait for an answer, knowing it well " now turn around and keep your eyes closed.. Don't open them till I say so " now that definitely was something, he wondered what it could be.. feeling her hands sliding away he waited.. taking few steps back she called softly " now very slowly open your eyes "

He did so and..

His mouth fell open. It was few seconds before he realized that he wasn't breathing and speech.. What was that !?..

There she stood in that sexy nightwear that stopped just little above her knees, it had layers. 2 ,he did quick math.. The longer one was something sexy silky red gown with open front ,a belt to hold it in its place which was bit loosely done. The way she stood showed her sexy leg sneaking out till just little above her knee.. With a shy nervous smile on her face and a hand on her waist she looked incredible ! Hot ! Gorgeous ! boy what a sight it was ! He could have just eaten her up.. He looked again, taking a step ahead.. Now even more closely.. the inner had some red lacy stuff with beautiful pattern of flowers in black that peaked out of the first, it was little see through kind and as his shy wife adjusted the robe he got a sneak peak of what was inside and that just knocked off his breath... Again.

There was no doubt.

He absolutely loved the surprise gift.

" So.." she raised a brow trying to control her blush " what do you think ? Do you like it ? "

" Sweetheart, do you even have to ask ? " he was right, the moment she felt his eyes on her she knew the answer but still.. " you.. You.. Gosh I don't know what to say. But wifey, I absolutely love this gift. Floored ! " closing the space in between he wrapped her in his arms " Now will you let me unwrap my present " and in an effortless sweep she was in his arms, happy beyond words. It was time for present sharing...

Beautiful nights make perfect mornings. So true. The smiles on their faces proved it.. The present was truly liked highly appreciated and lovingly admired.. And not to forget the selection and selector were heartily praised.. Specially the latter.. " Armaan plz, can't you stand still for a moment, this is the third time I'm making this knot " she slapped his arm making another failed attempt to make him stand properly for the morning tie ritual while he was all focused on making his morning extra special.

" What ? What did I do ? I think you need more practice sweetheart " he kissed her bare shoulder while she tried pushing him back.

" Yeah right, more practice to keep you in check. Now stop moving or forget about your morning kiss " getting up late delayed his morning dose and he was wise enough not to risk that.. Wifey could be real Hitler at times " huh, finally ! Now hurry up or you'll be late "

He grabbed her hand as she turned to go " hey ! Where do you think you're going ? Where's my kiss ?? "

" Sorry darling, if only you'd have got that knot tied bit early " she patted his cheek smiling at his you-cheated expression

" Heyy ! That's unfair " she was expecting the protest

And was ready for it " Yeah, whatever. Now cmmon. I'm gonna be late otherwise " least affected with his protests she pulled him down for breakfast..

Covering her mouth she hid her grin at his grumpy face, angry with her rule breaking crime he stubbornly refused to answer any of her questions or comment " Armaan can you drop me at the parking lot Sapna has to go out for a surgery and I want to meet her before she leaves " again no reply but he turned to the place anyway. She so badly wanted to pull his cheeks and give him his morning quota right away but that would carry the risk of accident, since he was driving.. The car came to halt with rather a rough jerk courtesy a certain angry husband who still refused to look at his wife.

" Oh cmmon ! Stop being such a baby ! " she couldn't take anymore of his silence

It seemed he was tired too " great ! First I'm not given my promised kiss then I'm not even allowed to complain and over that I'm call.." he would have continued but she grabbed his face shutting him up with her lips. Something raised a doubt about the so called meeting but then.. To hell with that, this was way better.. they fell back on the seat wishing each other a very good morning..

" That was the bestest morning kiss ever " he took a deep breath highly satisfied

" Hmm I've noticed making out in parking lot is highly rated by you " both chuckled while she straightened herself wiping off the lipstick from his lips, she pecked his cheek again whispering in his ear " this is the beginning darling.. The surprise isn't over yet.." his eyebrows cocked up at her words that ended with a suggestive wink, before he could completely register her words she got out of the car " love you " blowing another kiss from the window she made her way to the entrance.. Now how can she expect him to concentrate on work after that !

He couldn't shake off that smile since he dropped her and that other people were smiling seeing him smile missed him totally. It wasn't before Sameer gave him a ' you're acting weird ' look that he noticed it, but the second he remembered the reason behind it it only got wider. Sameer left shaking his head muttering 'love !' under his breath.. And with a small smile on his lips.

But that was just the beginning. Like she said...

A vibrating cell phone caught Armaan's attention. It was a text from wifey " hey baby ! Patients doing well, came back early.. Missing you : * "

Smiling broadly he typed a quick reply " missing u 2.. But stuck in a boring presentation thing :( "

Seconds later phone buzzed again " aww poor baby.. I was wondering if we can go out for dinner today ?? "

He sighed at the executive blaring something about cost of production something blah blah. He typed back " of course sweetheart wherever you want "

" Great :D, I'll make reservations. Now help me decide on something " he'd have rather talked to her but the man got to some important point.

" Darling I'd love 2 but this is kinda imp. "

" Armaan.." Rahul whispered from his side " what are you doing ? " Armaan was rather thankful for the darkness in the room but glow from the cell phone must've given him away " Nothing bhai.. Uh another project " Rahul fell back on his seat, staring at him for a moment before going back to the presentation. He stared at the reply, it surprised him " it's okay. Just tell me should I wear red or black ?? "

His fingers ran on the keypad " I love both.. Is it about not-yet-over- surprise ?? ;)"

" Maybe.. But you're not helping. Black is slip in kind and red is strap thing.. Damn sexy but bit delicate "

The slide changed but all he could see was red and black " Red. Go with red " hitting the send button he waited for the reply but then something striked, black would be less time consuming and looked so sexy on her milky skin. He typed again " black, go with black "

He got an exasperated reply " jaan you're confusing me totally...leave it. I'll wear the sandals di got me from London "

What the heck ! Where did sandles came from ?? He typed again " Sandles ? What sandals ?? "

" The sandles to go with my dress. What else ? Couldn't decide for the evening so asked you, bhabs is also out " there was a loud plop ! It was his bubble of happiness which just burst.. What he thought of and..." what did you think I was talking about ?? "

Disappointment led to honesty " I thought you were talking about.. You know, sexy stuff "

Soon he got what he was afraid of " Armaan ! You're in the office, don't you have something else to think of !? Go back to your imp presentation "

He sighed. Now why would she admit to her part of luring him into thinking that ! Wives, You can't win from them ever ! But next second his smile returned " meet you in office at 7.. Love you :* "

Sending the same back he glanced at the watch.. 4o'clock, three more hours to go.. It was then he realized that room was bright again and few curious eyes were staring at him..

" Armaan are you okay ? " Rahul asked again

He realized he had a goofy grin on his face, which he quickly adjusted " yes bhai.. I told you naa.. Interesting project looking forward to a favorable reply from other side " not a total lie

Rahul eyed him for a moment " Hmm, I'll handle things here you go and take a break " Armaan thanked god for he was unable to pay attention to anything now and Sameer was still looking at him suspiciously.. Coming out he exhaled deeply then chuckled shaking his head at what happened inside " wifey you're going to land me into trouble someday " grinning he walked back to his office waiting for 7o'clock.

He never felt so grateful for the workload, ever. It helped him pass half of the agonizing waiting period, the watch striked 6 and he thought of calling her but was interrupted by a call " sir there's someone to meet you " was he just imagining or his secretary sounded chirpy " Kavita didn't I tell you to cancel all appointments after 5. Hasn't everyone left the.."

" Can I come in Mr.Malik ?.." the door opened letting in the most beautiful face. Was he dreaming.. No he wasn't.. " Ridhhima ! You're early ! " he almost jumped seeing her, she chuckled getting the expected reaction but then pointed to the receiver that was still in his hand.. " oh.. Kavita, you can leave " like she didn't knew, she was all ready with her bag on her shoulder ready to dash to the door as soon as she saw Ridhhima walking in after office hours..

Before he could put the receiver back Ridhhima took the best place in the room, his lap. Locking her arms around his neck she looked into his eyes, they crinkled with happiness " another surprise of yours " she nodded smiling broadly.

" A good evening surprise.." keeping a hand behind his head she pulled him close covering his lips with hers.. he couldn't have asked for anything better.. His arms snaked around her waist deepening the kiss, taking in her beautiful fresh fragrance while her fingers threaded his hair kindling up fire in him.. He went crazy as her hand slid lower to his chest opening up the buttons of his shirt while pulling him to herself from his nape feeling out of control with that muscular smell of his cologne, it always drew her wild.. pulling out of the kiss leaving him breathless she brought her lips close to his ear " you know I have both red and black.. Which one would you prefer ? " he smirked, so it wasn't about shoes after all.. her seductive tone and an open invitation was enough to send his excitement over the roof. " I'd see and decide " securing her in his arms he got off the chair in one lithe movement making way to the private room..

Snuggled up under soft satin sheet he squeezed her in his embrace looking into her eyes " I guess now I can never decide between Red and Black " she chuckled kissing his neck. " Don't worry I'll select some other colour next time " he grinned " ohhh, I see surprise continuing.." adding a wink. His spirits quiet high after a great love making..

" Why should I spoil the surprise "

" Can't wait.. So, shall we.. " tightening his hold around her waist he pulled her close " Armaan.." she blushed " Aren't you hungry ? we've reservations for dinner jaan. And too much of snack before dinner would kill the appetite " pushing him back planted a kiss on his neck, still flushed " in a minute.." he cuddled up tighter..

" Jaan this way we're going to go hungry " she kissed his nose at the cute frown on his face

" Are you hungry ? " he looked up in her eyes " Not much "

" Then dinner can wait " he rested her head back on his chest. Ridhhima sighed, not interested in going anywhere either..

" Ridhhima " he called rubbing her back " I was wondering if.."

" No Armaan, I'm not coming to pick you up every evening "

" Darn ! How did you know I was going to say that ? "

She chortled " coz hubby dearest you are part of me. I know you that well "

" Only part ? " she laughed pinching his nose " a big part, biggest okay " this was better but he still wasn't giving up easily and while he was busy convincing her that he was everything in her heart, which she agreed to, his cell phone buzzed out.

" It's bhai " he picked it up

" Armaan where are you ? I called Kavita she wasn't picking "

" Bhai I'm in the office. I told Kavita to leave early "

" Oh, but didn't you had meeting today ? "

" Uh, It got cancelled " Ridhhima on the other hand found it a very appropriate time to kiss him everywhere.. His phone almost slipped away when she reached his stomach her hands drawing imaginary patterns lower still..

" Fine then don't leave, we're coming we will go together."

" T..together ? Bhai " but the phone was disconnected..

" What happened ? " she asked raising herself on the elbow " bhai said he's coming so we can go back together. Shit ! He said we're coming ! " jolting up he grabbed a remote by the bedside and flicked open the tv screen on the opposite wall. Connected to a CCTV camera it showed Rahul coming out of his office.. " O god, bhai's coming here ! And you're here "

" Armaan I need some time, I can't just rush out there like this ! What will they think " she pointed at the screen which now showed BP and Virendra talking to Rahul..

" Fine you stay here, I'll handle them " he got up putting on his clothes at record speed.. She giggled at the sight.." Ridhhima what are you doing ?! " standing before him she suddenly blocked his way while he was about to leave.

" Nothing, just don't want you to leave me alone " she made a cute face rather tried but that naughty twinkle in her eyes gave her away, with an impish smile on his face he pushed her back pinning her to the door " really.. so let them come I can't leave my wife alone " he kissed her neck tracing his fingers down her back.. she blushed badly realizing what she'd put herself into " Armaan " she pushed him back " as much as I love to be with you I think we have situation to take care of "

" Are you sure ? I can stay " he pushed back a wayward strand from her face while she wriggled in his hold hiding from his intense gaze..

" Yes I am sure, now go " finally managing to push him out just at the nick of time. Seconds later the trio Virendra, Rahul and BP entered the room..

" Hey, what happened to you ?! " Rahul shot him a question. Who wouldn't, half of his shirt was hanging out hair were mess tie hung loosely half out of collar and Armaan wished they don't notice his feet coz he wasn't wearing any socks or shoes.. " this is the third time I am asking you, are you okay ? "

Armaan prayed she'd taken care of lipstick and by the lack of comment on that he thought he was safe from that side " um bhai I was just working " only if they knew what work..

" Were you working or fighting " he groaned inwardly, why his brother have to pester him so much, though he was kinda right.. He was with a wild cat.

" Bhai wo I got tired so started doing some exercise " that eased the questioning glares of BP and his dad. " See guys like I told you he works so hard.." Armaan got hot under his collar thinking about the actual work.

This wasn't all " I can see Rahul, my boy really puts himself into things " Armaan closed his eyes.. Rahul seemed to be in high spirits, new projects always did that to him " you're right chachaji my bro is such a hard worker he just keeps rocking between one thing and another " Armaan gulped wishing for the first time to sink in the floor.. BP continued the flow " don't push yourself so hard son.." He couldn't take it anymore were they deliberately saying these things. " work is important, its fine but I'm rather waiting for the special announcement " Armaan breathed in, finally change in topic.

" Yes dad everything is in order this year we'll surely get better profits than before "

Virendra sighed " not the work again ! " BP grinned at his brothers poor attempt to convey what he actually wanted.

Virendra tried again " what I mean is don't be such a workaholic, Rahul was just telling me that you're handling another project " Armaan bit his tongue remembering the conversation, some project that was " what I want to say is that have some family time too.. think about Ridhhima " he groaned inwardly there they go again. Only if they knew that these days she was the only thing in his mind 24*7 " you have some responsibilities towards her.. And us "

" But dad.." he must make them go away, they were embarrassing and confusing him.

" Oh cut the crap Veeru." he sighed, great ! now enter The BP " Armaan, sonny boy, what he wants to say is that you should work little less and work little more." Armaan looked unsure, he didn't knew if they were on the same page " let me get it straight, your father wants to join the grandpa club. The man is dying to get whatever is left on his head pulled out by your babies and he just can't wait to get his clothes soiled by their puke and shit.. Not to forget, inhale that breathtaking smell."

Rahul kept a hand over his mouth to stop from puking himself. Virendra made a horrified face " thanks a lot for helping out here brother. You make it sound such a nice experience."

BP remained unfazed " You're welcome little bro. You see Armaan every old man, like your father, has this burning desire to pass on his legacy to his successors and it's his turn now." Virendra rolled his eyes at his brother while Rahul hid his grin " I thank god for that Angel of mine. That gal has some spark, she's already making me dance on her little fingers, I tell you she's taken after Muskaan. Thank god, warna this sissy boy of mine.." He shuddered dramatically. Armaan stared at BP, his all the time ' I'm cool ' BP was suddenly lovey dovey old grandpa. Though he wouldn't admit to being old part.

" What ?? Did you just call me sissy dad ?! " incredulous Rahul cried out.

" Of course I did. Want a proof " in his BP way he pinched Rahul

" Aaooww that hurts ! " Rahul took a step back rubbing his arm

" See. I told you, sissy boy "

" Thanks a lot 'father' " Rahul scowled

" Okay okay guys, I got it.." he couldn't take it anymore from his nautanki family " Dad I'm meeting Ridhhima for dinner and we'll definitely think about it. BP stop calling bhai sissy and Bhai.." he didn't knew what to say " well, you're greatest brother ever. Now if you guys will excuse me I have to get ready for dinner. So goodbye." And with that he pushed all of them out ignoring all their yells, advises and what not.

This time he locked the door.. Ridhhima was brushing up her hair wrapped in satin sheet when he entered " you're back. Is everything under control " he nodded " good,wait a second I'll be ready in a minute " but he just stared at his gorgeous wife wondering how she managed to look so pretty all the time.. he sighed " no need to hurry.. I think I'll have some appetizers before dinner.. With my wife.." taking the brush off her hands he picked her up in his arms, she raised her eyebrows at him but then, he didn't gave her chance to speak and both landed on the bed, again...

" Rahul Isn't that Ridhhima's car " BP pointed at the corner of deserted underground parking lot

" Yes dad, I think it is. the guards are there too. "

" Did you see her ? "

" No, has she come already ? He better get ready fast. Hunger always drive women crazy " Rahul opened the door. But BP's lips curved into an understanding smile " Ofcourse, he was getting ready for dinner."

" What ? " Virendra threw a questioning look at his brother

" Nothing. But you were late in your advice the work is already in progress." Virendra nodded smiling as he got in the car.

" Huh, as in ?? " Rahul stared his father, clueless

" Leave it Rahul !" BP threw his hand in air " I wonder if you've learned anything at all from me."

" Hey that's not true. I know stuff you don't " Virendra grinned at the bickering duo, he knew better than to interfere or they would team up against him.. and so their bickering continued..

" Maria plz take this too " Ridhhima passed on the juice, but a second later a hand grabbed her covering her mouth " shh it's me "

" Armaan ! " she slapped his shoulder " aise darate hain kya ? And what are you doing here, cmmon " holding his hand she headed for the dining room " mch what yaar, you're so unromantic, you know how long I've been waiting here to get you alone " grabbing her from the waist he pulled her back.

" Mr. Romantic what if someone comes here. Chalo leave me " she tried getting out of his arms

" Noone's going to come. Now stop wasting time and kiss me "

" Armaan you know you're totally shameless "

" Don't blame me darling, it's all because of you. You bring out the best in me " he winked grinning while she was infected too.. Slowly he brought his lips closer.. She smiled and putting her arms around his neck brushed her lips with his..

They were lost in their world when some loud voices broke the spell. " did you hear that " Armaan asked " yeah, I think.. Someone's fighting.. Cmmon let's see "

Coming out of the kitchen they saw some servants peaking in the hall and grinning. Armaan tapped their back asking what's going on and within seconds everyone vanished... He noticed that today's highlights were his dad and BP.

" Why should I listen to you huh " Virendra asked

" Because I'm your elder brother and since I became dad before you did I have more experience in the matter "

" Yeah right, I can see that.. This is not fair you dictate everything here " Virendra looked angry

" Bhabhi.." Ridhhima whispered to Muskaan who sat there watching the duo " what's going on ?? "

" Shh chup. Come sit. This is way better than any saas bahu soap. New show, 2 oldies and a baby " Muskaan rolled a parantha and passed it to now grinning Ridhhima

" Just tell me one thing why do you get to do all the fun stuff. You can't even differentiate between baby power and milk powder, what happened to you experience here ? "

" Don't blame me, it's not my fault that they are both white and smell same " BP defended himself

" They do not ! If I remember clearly you gave me the food part and now you are butting in there too "

" My granddaughter isn't eating that sickly stuff ! " BP pushed away the bowl

" It's baby food !! Ask Muskaan " Virendra explained totally exasperated at his brother.

" Excuse me, you are fighting over food and dress part. What about me, I've got the puke and shit part " Rahul entered the battle

" Change of title, 3 men and a baby " Ridhhima covered her mouth from laughing out loud.".. Which BTW father was the shared responsibility " meanwhile the other trio, Muskaan Ridhhima and Baby kept rolling their heads from one side to another enjoying the match.

" Oh cmmon ! You're the father, this is how you bond with the baby " BP explained

" Fine, then you're the grandfather, why don't you bond with her this whole week " Rahul added

" This month ! "Virendra stepped ahead towering over his brother who fell back into the chair.

" Okay okay, geez why getting so cranky ! " BP surrendered at their glares.

" Hmm, chachu this week you decide on dresses and I'll go for play dates " he declared staring at his father making it really hard for ladies to control their laughter. But in their course of argument they forgot one thing.. Baby.. Which was now in Armaan's arms and who now demanded exclusive rights for spoiling the child.. Result, truce over and battle began again..

" Huhh, I guess one baby is just not enough. Isn't it Ridhhi " Ridhhima blushed at her comment, she knew well what Muskaan meant..

Somehow The great baby war was settled and they sat around for breakfast " Dad.. Is it okay if I take off for few days, I was planning for a break "

The sudden declaration from his workaholic son surprised Virendra who was rather happy " Of course son, infact you can take it from today itself "

" Thanks dad but I'll plan out few things before I take leave"

" That was quick. Atleast one planning is done " Muskaan whispered in Ridhhima's ear, while the latter blushed.

" How long are you thinking ? " Rahul asked

" Umm let's say about a month atleast " All eyes shot up at him in surprise.

" Don't look so surprise.. Europe takes time " he stated

" Hayye that's so romantic " Muskaan winked at already blushing Ridhhima " After you guys return ask Armaan to guide Rahul too "

" Why not son, after all your hard work you deserve a break " suddenly yesterday's events rolled by and he diverted his attention to the parantha before him, hiding his embarrassment. Ridhhima grinned knowing well what he must be thinking but the thought of finally going for a real honeymoon sent a wave of excitement through her body, all she could think of was spending time together.

She should've understood what he meant by, actually meant by, soon and taking care of few things before leaving.. For the past month he always was in some kind of frenzy.. Always running about yelling, of course not on her, ordering, going for one meeting or another plus those trips, she hardly got to see him properly !.. And then not to forget, those hush hush late night conferences especially when she asked him not to.. Fine, he got busted more than once but it was surprising that it did not deter him from doing that.. And in her heart she was proud, proud that he was so dedicated and didn't left one thing for another but it worried her too, he often forgot everything else when indulged in work and she had to make sure that he did not suffer coz of this madness.. Finally after a month she got the reward of her patience when he declared that 'everything was in order' and they can take a break..

She giggled remembering how excited he was that they can now actually go for their honeymoon especially when the workload didn't gave them much time to be ehem.. together, and how he was literally dying to be with her but then came another bomb, it was for him, they had to go for her di's daughter - Nandini's, naming ceremony, that delayed their trip for two days.. This wasn't all ,she still remember his angry pouting face when Anjali didn't let her go back home with him and how she had to explain and manofy him the whole night that it was just a matter of one day.. But now, with him sleeping peacefully in her arms, it felt that all that distance just added to their love for each other..

" Armaan.. Armaan wake up shona.. See how beautiful it is " caressing his head she called softly trying to wake him up, he stirred a little before snuggling closer hiding his face in the crook of her neck.. They left quiet early and considering he spent sleepless night before she made him rest a little.. blame it on tiredness or the sleepless night all it took was 5 minutes of her gentle head message and resting his head on her chest he went into the land of nod.. Listening to the music of her heartbeat..

Now after about 4 hrs, at the crack of dawn flying over white fluffy clouds in the blue sky streaked with orange glow of the morning sun, she felt out of the world.. Wanting to share it with him she tried again and this time was successful.. " good morning sleepy head " a big kiss on his cheek brought an instant smile on his face.

" Are we already there ? Why didn't you wake me up before ? " he sat up rubbing his eyes.. But she pulled him back again " no we still have couple of hours.. I just wanted to share this beautiful morning warna I'd have let you sleep more.. The way you were going in the past month you need more than just few hours " he chuckled " Work sweetheart.. You know naa "

" Yeah.. It felt like the honeymoon period was over already and the routine took over us.." he chuckled again but kept listening " you know out of 30 you were out for 20 days that left 10, out of which you dedicated 4 to work 2 to di and jijs and that left us with 4 out of which my work snatched another 2.."

" And you missed me terribly " he completed her sentence " trust me honey I know how I've spent the last month.. The sleepless nights I endured without you.. I'm sorry couldn't even utilize those 2 days together properly.. I was just too tired " suddenly she felt bad for complaining, if it was hard for her it was really tough for him.. " Armaan I didn't mean to make you feel bad.. It's just that I missed you so much.." squeezing him in her arms she kissed his head with all the love.

" I know sweetheart, but now I promise you I'll make it up to you and we're going to make love everyday starting today " he nuzzled her neck " yeah right ! " she laughed out at his declaration

" Cmmon yaar ! I'm serious.."

" We'll see " she pinched his nose grinning but he held her face in his palms " I promise you Ridhhima, I'll make this the most memorable time of our life " looking into his eyes she had no doubt that he would.. " I know.." she said softly and took him into a warm embrace..

" Welcome to Vegas Mr.Malik, Mrs. Malik.. Your limo is waiting for you " a beautiful blonde clad in an elegant business suit with a man, also dressed immaculately, welcomed them on Vegas airport.." Mr. Riveria has sent his regards " the man forwarded a bouquet of flowers to Ridhhima " he's looking forward to meeting you in the evening. This is for you sir, you can call me anytime " he extended him a swanky cell phone.

" Thank you Patrick.. Are all the arrangements done "

" Yes sir, Mr. Riveria personally took care of them " Ridhhima could make out from the conversation that the man was someone influential and close to Armaan but she couldn't remember who was Riveria, there were so many people at the wedding that she hardly remember anyone of them now " Natalie. Convey my thanks to Antonio and tell him we'll meet him tonight " the efficient chauffeur quickly opened the door for them and they left the airport with a small fleet of cars following them.

" That was quiet unexpected " impressed with the show " but I can't recall this Riveria guy "

" Oh he's one of the close one.. well and unwell known name here, owns some of the most grand casinos.." she raised a brow at that " some situations brought us together.. Anyway, leave that. Remember the wedding I told you about, it's his brother Armano's "

" Armano's ?? " He laughed " yeah another reason we're friends "

The hotel and casino were as grand as their name and the welcome was fit for any king & queen ,even better.. Antonio himself was present there, not very tall, he was a porky red faced balding man near the end of middle age dressed in all the elegance money can buy.. carrying an unlit cigar between his fingers and before she could ask he himself explained that he wasn't fond of smoking but liked his look with that thing in his hand, gives a kind of impression. He'd said. And she couldn't deny he did gave the impression.. of some kind of mafia head.. She would have been scared but, she wasn't.. the man did look intimidating but the way he was with Armaan it seemed like Armaan was the boss around here.. Armaan's words ' some situation brought us together ' rang in her mind but she didn't get much time to ponder over it as the beauty of their suite bowled her...

It was a complete floor with three rooms exquisitely furnished and decorated.. a very spacious hall personal kitchen with chef and butler at their service round the clock.. Outside, a pool with crystal clear blue water tempted her to take a dip right then and the view from the 23rd floor was breathtaking..

" It looks even better at night. One of the finest suite I have dear, hope it's according to your liking " now that she spent few minutes with Antonio, he seemed a really warm and affectionate person, she wasn't the one to judge him coz of his work which she wasn't even sure of.

Smiling broadly she turned to him " yes Antonio, it's amazingly beautiful.. haven't seen anything like this before " it pleased him immensely, taking her hand in his he kissed it lightly " thank you, I was rather after Armano to bring you here but he thinks it's all about gambling " he threw a mock angry look at Armaan who just laughed shaking his head " I'll make sure you see all of Vegas and you can play at any table as much as you want "

" Hey man I see you've found a fan but don't tempt her so much or I'll be forgotten in no time.."

" I don't think that can happen. When I see people, I know what they are.." he smiled, a wise smile.. she knew what he meant.. And he was right " all right you love birds, I'll see you tonight.. And Armano it's bloody tie affair.."

Armaan laughed " don't worry I have someone to take care of that now " putting a hand over her shoulder her squeezed it gently. Lifting his hat Antonio moved out smiling " he too isn't fond of ties " he explained to perplexed Ridhhima.

" Armanoo !! " she was startled when a brunette suddenly appeared from nowhere while they were bidding goodbye to Antonio after attending the grand wedding. The lady held Armaan tightly while he struggled to get free especially when Ridhhima was giving him that deadly glare " Armano I missed you ! so happy to see you " her Mexican accent would have sounded charming in any other situation.. But not now..

Armaan laughed nervously and finally managed to free himself from her hold " Gloria ! What a.. Pleasant surprise ! I was just remembering you " he gulped at Ridhhima's raised brow look.

" Don't tell me, you didn't even call after that.." his eyebrows shot up and he quickly interfered " Gloria meet my wife.. Ridhhima " Ridhhima smiled plastering politeness.

" Ooh you got married ! What a shame.. She's so pretty " Ridhhima couldn't decided whether it was a regret insult or compliment or all.. but the next moment Gloria hugged rather squeezed Ridhhima " Antonio told me but I didn't believe him.. you're a lucky man Armano but sadly now you're out of my list " Ridhhima now started liking her " Ridima you lucky girl.. Take care of this gem many would kill to get him. Me included " she winked, leaving Ridhhima confused what to think of her.. " Bye Ridima.. Bye Armano " and then suddenly grabbing Armaan's face she planted a big kiss on his cheek.

" Hehe.. Um.. That's Gloria, Antonio's cousin.." Ridhhima crossed her arms giving him the look while he tried to wipe off the lipstick which he was sure can bring his death sentence " don't worry, wo aisi hai.." still a glare " that was just a friendly kiss " he added quickly.

" Hmm friendly kiss.. I'm now kind of getting what she's like.." She melted a bit, knowing that with him a case or two might arise unexpectedly from anywhere " cmmon lets go back before anyone else gets the idea to kill me for this gem.."

Back in the room things looked bit settled " You know darling, I think this holding hand thing is bit better than garland thing isn't it ? " he said pulling down his t-shirt

" Better ? How ? " she was sure he must've come up with one of his great theories.

" Well for one thing, it's less dangerous " that caught her attention, putting down the brush she turned to him, confused " You know why they exchange those garlands in Indian weddings ?.. It's a hidden threat which everyone miss in conviviality "

" A threat ?? Care to explain " sure that it's going to be something high on weird scale she waited giving him 'the look'. Which he missed.

" Yes. It means the bride and groom warn each other ' darling you are dead ' " making the James Bond pose he tried to put in visual effect. " So you mean when I placed that garland around your neck I was threatening you ?! "

" Well, you were at that time. Remember Vivek " he grinned while her eyes narrowed threateningly. He didn't leave any chance to tease her, not that Vivek's name bothered her anymore.. she knew he didn't mattered to either of them but still his name had somehow become a major tool in teasing her. It always sounded like she was a fool. Okay, that time she was, but things were way different then.

" Armaan if you take his name once again to tease me I will surely kill you. And that's not a threat " she had to put her foot down now.

" Hayye darling you've already killed this poor husband of yours, now if you'd care to give him something to revive " the threat seemed to have least effect on him as he wrapped his arms around her tightly..

" Oh you mean a kiss " he nodded eagerly, but she pushed him away, it was revenge time " to jaa kar us gori chudail se kyun nahi le lete jo tumse itna chipak rahi thi, she'd be thrilled to kiss you " he grinned but knew better than to show that..

" Sweetheart that wasn't my fault and the poor girl didn't even knew that I'm married.."

" Oh poor girl ! You know what, I think you'd have let her kiss you had I not been there " oops, it was going the wrong way.. Putting a broad smile he wrapped her in his arms from behind " Darling you know it isn't so plus no one can kiss like you.. It's just soo yummy "

It melted her a bit but he wasn't going to be forgiven so easily, turning around she looked into his eyes " Achha, yeh kab pata chala hmm ? "

" Since the day you kissed me on that beach in Australia. I can't forget that day, ever.." he pecked her nose seeing her softening moving ahead to cheeks.

" Hold on." before he could reach the lips she pushed him back " When did I kiss you in Australia ?? " he grinned, it was time to unveil one of the biggest secrets of Mrs. Ridhhima Armaan Malik's life..

" Oh god I was drunk !.. Me ! Drunk ?! " she couldn't belive it " well to have the guts to call the policeman motu muchhad you were surely drunk " the expression on her face was priceless.

" And you let me get drunk ! " still aghast.. " cmmon, it was nothing, you were pretty sad and it just.. Happened.. I was there the whole time so there was nothing to worry about.." he explained

" Why didn't you tell me before ? " calmed, she now rested her head on his chest while he caressed her hair wrapping her protectively in his arms.. " was waiting for the appropriate time.. just didn't get the right opportunity "

She fell quiet for a moment " Armaan.. My first kiss.. and I don't even remember it.. How was it ? " raising her head she looked into his eyes.

" Most perfect.. Magical.. Nothing like I've ever had before.. I still remember it so vividly " smiling lightly she rested her head back " and it was you "

" Yes sweetheart it was us " he smiled at the revived memory

" Armaan.."

" Hmm "

" Can I have a kiss ? "

" Sure my queen, your wish is my command " and he took her into a most loving passionate kiss.. Which did not stop there.

Vegas enchanted them.. The people its opulence it's magnificent structures which boasted of numbing your senses with their magic.. Everywhere they turned there was something new.. Night never visited the place, the people never slept.. and the magic seemed to be everywhere..

And to make the queen happy MGM catered to her every whim and fancy.. And when accompanied with your loved one, then the fun never stops.. Apart from enjoying Vegas and being with Armaan, Ridhhima was completely set on fulfilling her desire... to gamble as much as she wanted.. Not that hubby dearest was going to say no but she conveniently forgot that she lost 67,000 dollars in just two days on different slot machines !

" Armaan I want to play at that table " after trying roulette, rummy and even a stint at poker, something else caught her eye.

" Darling that's million dollar black jack, plus look at all those people they look professional.. experienced.. you wouldn't last for ten minutes there. Why don't you try those slot machines." he pointed to a corner where she hadn't been yet.

" Armaan I'm not a kid." he hid his smile at the thought that she remembered this after spending that hefty amount cursing the machines heartily that they were fix " And I want to play that." making a stubborn face she folded her arms. She was like a child in toy shop who was let loose to do what she wished.

He tried again " But.."

" Hey Armano ! " the booming voice interrupted him " you don't say no to a lady, that too your wife ! Learn from me, how do you think I've survived marriage for 38 years.."

" But Antonio.." he turned around half giving up already now that he was here to back her up.

" Now you keep quiet. Patrick. " one sharp call and Patrick appeared out of thin air " Take the lady to the table she wants and get her the chips "

" Oh thank you Antonio ,you're a darling.." scowling at grinning Armaan " Huh " she made way to the table. " just leave some for the return journey sweetheart " he called after her, she didn't find it amusing and turned her face away.

" Sir, the deposit.." Patrick asked.

" Patrick you fool, you don't ask the master if he has the right to enter his house. Get her whatever she wants." Patrick nodded and disappeared immediately.

" Forgive him, he's new "

Armaan grinned sipping his drink " that's okay.. but you're spoiling her, now she would want to be here every holiday... And just wait when Muskaan gets here again "

" Armano you surprise me.. For someone who owns 45% stakes in the most profitable grand casino's you are hardly seen here and you're even telling her to play low. That's a shame ! Infact you should try your hand too. It's fun ! You remember the word, don't you.."

Armaan laughed " you know Antonio I'm not big on gambling thing.. The reason I even have stake here is coz you wouldn't hear otherwise.."

" Armano.. I know I'm not a good man in god's eyes, you know my work, my ways but bad people have principles too.. You can forget but I can't.. If it's there it's coz of you.. I, my family owes it to you "

" Hey ,leave that now.. But don't let it slip.. It might trouble her.. she's sensitive to such matters " he looked at Ridhhima who was busy observing the game and the players.

" Ah, I know better than to do that.. And yeah the thing you asked me for, it's almost done.. Need just another couple of days "

" Hmm, thanks, but I need it done before we leave "

" Not a problem at all.. You'll get what you want " Armaan nodded and moved to the table.. Wife losing million dollars before husband's eyes was not something someone got to see everyday..

" Wifey I didn't knew that you're such a juari.." both headed back with a bottle of champagne. Unlike what he feared wifey actually won a million dollar game ! He couldn't believe his eyes and Antonio had to confirm it. Now after celebrations in the gaming palace they headed back for some privacy.

" Ha ! don't underestimate me hubby.. I observe things.. And once you get the hang of it, it's cake walk " as generous she was with losing money to the casino she was with her self appraisal too.

" Oh you do.. after last night I really don't doubt your observation powers " he winked

Ridhhima rolled her eyes " Why everything comes around to sex hmm ? "

" Hey don't blame me I'm on my honeymoon with my hot wife what else can I think of..? So shall we celebrate the victory " pulling her to a secluded corner he wrapped her in his arms.. Nuzzling her neck..

" Of course, how about in our room " she whispered sensuously

" You are such a hypocrite ! " he laughed pecking her nose.

" But you love me.." She giggled

" You bet ! " he pulled her up in his arms carrying her to the room " Armaan put me down ! what will people think "

" No one's allowed on this floor without permission and just wait till we get to the room " she beamed, excited for the upcoming surprise.

Entering the room her breath got stuck again.. The room was filled with candles all the way bordering the pool which was right outside in the balcony " To Mrs.Malik kya khayal hai.." she stepped down admiring the everything.. Beyond the pool the city glowed and the fountain show at the bottom sprinkled magic dust all over.. She was still looking when he wrapped his arms around her from behind " so kaisa laga.. It got hot inside so I thought you might enjoy a dip.. You know in the excitement I even forgot my hunger " he chuckled

But suddenly he was brought back on earth " Oh yeah, hungry se yaad aaya.. I'm hungry...what would you like ? " his jaw dropped " What ?? tumhe khana khana hai ? but you said down there that you're not hungry..."

" So ? " She raised her brows questioningly but he missed the naughty twinkle behind that straight face " now I am. You want to starve me ? "

" No but.. okay " he shrugged resignedly, she smiled trying to control her laugh, but then decided that was enough of teasing " Ohho ab aise muh mat banao chalo.." encircling her arms around his neck she ran a finger down his face pecking on his lips " lets do something about your hunger first.. It's too hot in here I might use a dip.."

His heartbeat raised and goosebumps rose with her touch.. he smiled " don't worry sweetheart. that can wait, let's worry about your hunger first "

" Mr.Malik," she must let him know that he was missing the point " who told you I'm hungry for food ? " running a finger along his jaw she added huskily " I'm hungry for you... starving, today's menu will be all your choice " His jaw dropped again " Now are you going to just stand here with that expression or going to do something about it huh ? "

" Absolutely madam. I don't want to starve my beautiful wife " and he covered her lips with his in a beautiful kiss...

The time seemed to fly away in the magic land and before they knew they were already there for ten days.. " Armaan are you going to tell me where are we going now ? " he'd maintained a strict secrecy about their next stop. He said he wanted to surprise her.. None of her tricks worked all she could make out was it was some place sunny.. With all those summer dresses he'd bought her.. But where exactly were they going..

" Okay honey.. I think you deserve to know now.. You've worked hard enough " he giggled taking her into his arms.. She waited " we're going to St. Barth's we've a yacht there and i think you'll like it "

" St. Barth's ?? " he nodded " hmm , I've never heard of it before.. But if you've thought of it I'm sure it's going to be lovely " smiling she pecked his cheek making his smile broader..

" Hey Armano.. My dear " he greeted Armaan and Ridhhima on the airport.. He'd come to see them off and Ridhhima was glad that in this time Gloria was missing.. She'd now come to know and like all of them.. Antonio's wife their children a lovely girl and a boy , both now away for studies.. His brother and his new bride who like them were now on their honeymoon.. She liked them all.. She was bidding goodbye to Antonio's wife when Antonio called Armaan away..

" Here, it's all done. Just the way you wanted. " he handed Armaan a brown Manila envelope. " Thanks Antonio.. I knew I don't have to worry when you're there "

" Anytime, my friend .anytime.." he then turned to Ridhhima who happen to watch this interaction from the corner of her eye " Hey Ridima.. Next time whenever you want to come and play just give me a call. I'll handle him and everything else "

" Yeah yeah, just make her an addict. That's thoughtful " Armaan threw his hands up in the air while they all laughed out..

Back inside the plane she sat cuddled up to him ,her head resting on his chest " Armaan.."

" Hmm "

" What did Antonio gave you on the airport ? " she asked raising herself on the chin

He sighed but kept his eyes close " Nothing sweetheart, just some papers.. Business stuff " he shrugged pulling her back again. Getting the answer she went back to the earlier position but somehow it didn't satisfy her.. If they were just papers then why was Antonio so secretive about them and Armaan.. She knew he wouldn't think of work when she's with him especially when they are on their honeymoon and he'd promised.. He'd never break his promises.. She knew.. Then what was in that packet...

St. Barth turned out to be total contrast of Vegas.. It was quiet and peaceful though it wasn't far in opulence when it came to Rich and famous... The beautiful sea side could steal anyone's heart and the cozy line of houses invited to be part of their heart.. She could almost picture herself with Armaan walking their child each holding a hand.. Enjoying a nice walk in the park or making castles of sand at the beach... She sighed, this dream was way beautiful than anything.. But then her attention was diverted to the sites and shops which were full of stuff to cater all the crazy fancies one can think of, some of them were his which he enthusiastically narrated to her... not only the place she found the people warm and welcoming too.. Seeing the docking line she wondered which of the cute little one's was theirs...

But this was beyond her expectations " You gotta be kidding me ! Armaan, this is our yacht !? I thought.. you said yacht not cruiser ! " she imagined something when he told her.. but a 150 m long four story high 15 crew member cruiser was not in her mind.. And he said it was small ! " why would I kid about it sweetheart. And trust me compared to some, this is small." grinning at her surprised face " We got Summer long back.. Infact dad got it, he came in here one summer and voila ! we had Summer !. He's more into getting these fancy to his liking things " he explained while boarding where the Captain in spic and span white uniform and 2 pretty attendants in navy blue dress welcomed them, but this new information added to her surprise..

" Papa ?! this is totally unexpected. I can think of BP getting into this fancy thing stuff for once, but papa !.." he just smiled shaking his head " I guess every one has their fancies, dad like boats.. sea faring and stuff. Cmmon let me show you.. " as he showed her around she couldn't stop praising everything about the yacht and Virendra's choice.. he had to pull her out from the control room.. weren't the machines men's area of interest.. Apparently it wasn't so with her..

She was amazed to see their bedroom.. The king size bed was directly opposite to a glass that became a wide screen television on a touch of a button.. There was an opening at the roof too to see the night sky if one wished.. not a single corner was left uncarpeted and anything to everything was available on just a call.. It was like a fairy tale and that smile told him she loved it already. This was going to be best time and place ever..

Resting her head on his chest arms around each other they sat watching the beautiful starlit sky on the deck " Armaan, I'm going to be terribly spoilt " she sighed smiling

He chuckled " don't worry princess, that's exactly I want to do " and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. Their first day on the yacht was spent appreciating the surrounding with a cozy dinner on the deck under the starry sky ending with blissful sleep in each others arms..

" Armaan look ! " tugging his sleeve she pointed out at something. They came out in the city, much to his dislike.. He wanted more time in the bed but she dragged him out anyway, she wasn't going to miss seeing this beautiful place.." what a beautiful church " she whispered in awe " cmmon lets go in " her excitement bubbled up

" Ridhhima yaar, we're on our honeymoon not pilgrimage ! " what's with women and temples, plus a watch on a shop's display caught his eye and he wanted to check it out first.. But may be he forgot who he was with, his protests fell on deaf ears and was pulled away from there anyway..

"... My children so I say, if you confess, bare your heart.. to even your loved one you'll find yourself a step closer to god.. And remember he always listens..."

" Really ?! Was he cleaning his ears when I told you that I wanted to go to that shop " he grumbled making few heads turn but the next moment a sharp elbow punch quieten him, now he understood what the man meant.. A little more force and he would have been there with god in heaven by the hands of his loved one. Some heart baring that was..

The sermon went for another 15-20 minutes, years for him, but was more bearable after that elbow thing. And also when you doze off things get by faster.

Ridhhima shook him a little when everyone got up to pray, being Sunday the place was full of dutiful people spending some time with god except him, who counted every second before sleeping.. He got up with a jerk " huh, is it over ? Thank god ! This man took like forever ! "

Almost everyone turned to see, why ? Coz everyone was standing in silence. Ridhhima hid her face while he waved at them with embarrassed grin..

He ran after her while she walked away angrily " Ridhhima.. Ridhhima wait up yaar ! I said sorry na.. I told you I didn't wanna go "

" Really ! is that your excuse ? " he looked down, running his hand in his hair. But she wasn't going to let him off coz of that cute face she so badly wanted to kiss now... " you're turning into one of a kind shameless person. You were there in a church before god and you grumbled, slept and even criticized the priest !! "

" Achha baba sorry again. Next time no matter how boring the sermon is I won't complain or grumble or sleep. Happy "

She listened with arms folded till he finished " if I hadn't known you so well I'd have believed you " his mouth fell open. She was one of a kind, but it was true " now stop acting surprised and cmmon I want to shop a little " pulling his hand she dragged him into a nearby shop..

Hours later his patience gave up " Hey wifey, I didn't knew you are a shopaholic. You hid that from me ! " this was their 15th shop ..

" Huh, What did you think hubby ? couldn't let out all my secrets in one go." she winked patting his cheek and walked to another section.

" But how much more yaar.. I'm tired ! " he followed juggling about dozen bags.

" Achha.." she turned around very amused at his condition and least affected by the request " abhi se thak gaye ! Bas itna hi stamina hai ??, yeh muscles to tumne bekar hi banaye hai.." she teased walking away..

But the next second dropping the bags in hand he grabbed her arm making her crash on his chest " don't challenge me in the stamina department sweetheart, the marathon hasn't even started yet "

Colour rose to her cheeks " Armaan we're at a public place."

" So ?? " she gave him a look and he got the message, infact the rosiness of her face gave her away way before " Of course sweetheart, let's get back to the yatch. I think I have to demonstrate my 'stamina'... Plus those dresses look really sexy.." he whispered his hand snaking around her waist raised goosebumps on her skin " I want to see how you look with.. And without them.." she couldn't raise her eyes, colour deepened on her cheeks as they made their way out to the yacht..

" huh, I'm tired " she crashed on the couch while he followed struggling with the load.

" Hey what did you do ? I carried all the bags " dropping all on the floor he landed next to her

" You deserve some punishment especially what you did in the church today "

He grinned sheepishly " well about that, you know I was thinking something on the way back.. And since you were so angry for what I did in the church today I thought of actually doing something that that priest said.." She raised her brows in surprise.

" And that would be ?? " she sat up getting curious

" That would be, confession.. Since I made you angry I'll confess one thing to you that I think you should know and don't and you confess something that you know and I dont.." she smiled inwardly at his efforts for making it up to her.

" Hmm sounds interesting.." getting interested " so what's it that you know and I don't. Do you have a girlfriend ? " he rolled his eyes at her grin.

" No I don't. What I wanted to say is that.. I saw you naked " her grin vanished, folding a leg she sat up facing him.

" You wanted to confess this !? " he nodded smiling eagerly " that you saw me naked ? " nod again " Armaan you are.. Leave it, after all we did you wanted to confess this ! " hiding her blush she fell back resting her back on his chest amused, almost on the verge of laughing out.

" But sweetheart that's the catch, I saw you that way in the shower "

" What ?! " she sat up again " When did you see me in shower. You sneaked in ! "

" No I didn't. it happened that day.." she raised a brow at ' that day' " it was before things got.. you know, better between us, even before we confessed our love.." her mouth fell open " I swear it was accidental.. Do you remember when I was at home after that site accident.." now she remembered " I didn't tell you before coz I thought it would be.. Awkward.. but boy, you looked soo umm, the way water slid down those beautiful curves and i absolutely loved your humming " pulling her close he made her sit in his lap.. his hand slid down her waist while he breathed in her fragrant hair, and got an instant slap.

" Armaann you.. You go away.." she tried getting off but was secured. This was certainly a confession..

" Hey you can't get angry, and what could I do I didn't knew you were in there." she frowned at his grin " But you know I couldn't sleep for days after that. Every time I closed my eyes I saw you and.. And then it was so difficult and more than that everytime you touched me it got even harder. It was kind of automatic, my whole body sprang to life.. Why do you think I spent so much time in the bathroom " suddenly honesty did became the best policy, if one get to see that look..

" Armaaann ! get lost !. You are so gross.. So bad.." the hits by the cushions could hardly effect him

" Hey that was not what you said last night huh, that time toh you were like oh Armaan ah Armaan.." this time a cushion fell flat on his face.

" You are so disgusting ! " she blushed badly but unaffected he pulled her close

" Whatever I am, now you have to put up with that. No choice honey, I am all yours " tightening the hold around the waist he nuzzled her neck

" And you better be " his soft kisses made her go weak again

" So, am I forgiven for that accident " he grinned

She gave up, no point resisting now " Well, I would have been angry at that time but.. Now.. I guess it's okay."

" Okay ! You mean as in just okay ? " that was bit easy

" Yupp, even I admit I might have got a sneak peak of that cute tushi of yours.. Accidentally. While you may have been busy adjusting your towel and it slipped.." raising her neck she gave a I'm-not-behind grin

" You naughty girl ! You saw my butt !! " He looked rather excited like that was the first time " What else did you see ? care to give the details.. Anything special you liked ? " wagging his brows he gave an impish grin.

Ridhhima frowned, it wasn't the way she wanted it to head " okay. Fine. That did not happen. Closest I came to see you that way was in your swimming trunks and..." of course he knew when.

" And you couldn't take that off your mind." he interrupted " Admit it. You liked what you saw, you were ogling like you're going to pounce on me any second " that grin got wider.

" No, I didn't " she tried to defend

" Yes, you did " there was no use arguing, he knew it.

" Armaan, leave it naa. Don't you want to hear my confession ? "

" Yes yes of course " he jumped all excited. She meanwhile thought of what to confess and immediately his diary came to her mind but that she wasn't sure would be right thing to do right now.. It carried too much of his feelings which would be better if he let her know them himself.. " Ridhhimaa, you can't take that long ! " his voice broke her line of thought but then her eyes fell on something and another thought came to her.

" Ohho you're so impatient. come here, my confession is more of a show and tell.. I had this idea very recently but wasn't sure how to.. You know.. But promise me you won't laugh "

" I promise, I won't " and she whispered something in his ear and with every word she uttered his smile got wider.

" This is going to be one of the best confessions ever ! "

Scooping up the bags she took out a dress and jumped on the bed, rubbing his hands he waited eagerly " so this is the first.." she winked and slowly started unbuttoning her shirt..

Armaan sat spellbound mouth little agape, he couldn't believe his shy wife suddenly wanted to confess her wildest fantasy ! Though she termed it as 'trying on the dresses' but a slow strip by her was not in his wildest dreams. He couldn't thank god and praise himself enough for sleeping in the church.. He definitely listens.

Unbuttoning from the top she slowly pulled off her shirt, she was wearing a low cut black today. Then she unbuttoned her jeans bending to step out of them and surprising him with sexiest skin tight matching lingerie. His heart fluttered fastening his breathing. How that sight mesmerized him ! The skin tight stuff accentuated her curves leading the eyes to that ultra seductive triangle of black.. He wouldn't have cared if there was a nuclear explosion outside, she had her riveted.. As she bent again, putting a little emphasis towards him their eyes met, a small seductive smile crept up. She had the desired effect..

Slowly stepping into a dress she pulled it up putting her arms into its short sleeves. It had buttons in front, but Ridhhima started buttoning up from bottom button near the waist working her way up. She watched his eyes as they intently gave caressing attention to each one.. Bit by bit the b** disappeared.. When she finished, he gave a typical male appraisal from head to foot. It was a pretty dress, caressing her slender waist the skirt flared out down to the knees as she twirled " well, what do you think ? "

Armaan gulped surprised at himself when he actually spoke " it's beautiful honey, you look very cute in it "

Beaming she reversed the process to take off the dress, knocking off the little control he'd managed. She started unbuttoning from the top so that her inner became visible a little at a time her lingerie appearing in a slow ghost like spectre of desire... Attired in nothing but her inners she moved to the bags, now pulling out a skirt and a blouse...

The blouse went on first. The bottom was straight and round which probably meant that it was supposed to be left out instead of tucking in but as she stood there, it was another sight to behold, the blouse came down only little below the waistline and so came nowhere to cover her lowers. He would have whistled or said something but his breath got stuck somewhere.. However, the entrancing vision slowly vanished as she pulled on the skirt, subtly swaying her hips as she wriggled into it, a knee length one. " I think I need to put on those nylons with these " stepping down she pulled out a pair from one of the bags lying near his feet. Keeping a leg on the edge of the couch she pulled up the skirt to a breathtaking height. Armaan drew in a sharp breath, if she heard she didn't show.. Slowly she pulled up the stocking, he couldn't believe what he was seeing, a direct view up her skirt black lingerie and all.. Ridhhima stretched out her leg and lovingly smoothed the stocking up to mid thigh. This intoxicating process was repeated for the second stocking...

Done with it she stood up smoothing the skirt " so, how do you like this one ? "

Armaan's mouth went dry, it took a moment before he could speak " yeah.. Very nice " the way it was going he knew he wouldn't be able to control himself for long.. This show and tell confession was just getting too torturous but something told him, may be that secret smile of hers, that she was enjoying this thoroughly. He decided to comment something on his condition " you know sweetheart.. Your doing this naughty dress up thing with your husband thing is driving me crazy. I think you have established your point.. So "

" Drive you crazy ? " she interjected faking the surprise " Oh cmmon its just dress up " yeah, just a dress up that was driving him nuts and why did she smile like that if it was just so. He knew it, it was her little adventure and it was perfectly timed.. She walked over to him sitting down in his lap putting her arms around him, drawing his face closer she gave him a sweet tender kiss " I thought you'd like to know my secrets.. I thought you might enjoy watching this " was she kidding ! It blew him off !! couldn't she feel his heartbeat. He was so right, that tone with definite lack of innocence told him everything.. There was no doubt that he was quiet aroused at this point but just as his hand started slowly moving up her leg she eased off his lap..

" Don't get carried away so soon sweetheart. Didn't I said 5 dresses "

" 5 !! I don't think I can last another one " so true.. She chuckled " we'll see " he let out a deep breath hoping to last that long but if it didn't ended soon he was sure he would be ready even to beg.. She went to the mountain of bags and pulled out a mini skirt.. The process of taking off the stockings knocked off his breath, the small skirt hugged her curvaceous bottom showing her shapely legs the shirt was tied with a knot showing her slender waist.. With the length of the skirt there was no way she could avoid flashing her lingerie, it seemed his desires and passions were about to explode..

" Phew ! This is little too short, I guess I'll keep this for our private meetings.." she chuckled adding a wink, probably remembering the visit at the office " Huh I'm tired " all of a sudden she fell in his lap. Her fingers ran through his hair while other hand caressed his neck. Smiling coquettishly she whispered in his ear " I don't think I can last till 5 dresses "

Almost delirious with desire he could just manage to make sense of her words. " thank god ! I thought you would make me sit for all 5 " and taking her into a deep passionate kiss he carried her to the bed " this was the best confession ever " he said resuming the kiss..

The confessions definitely brought them close..

Storming in the room she yanked off her slippers angrily. It was a lovely day and after the incredible confession day the day before the captain sailed them to a beautiful beach. Where it all happened..

" That's it Armaan, he was just a messuse ! "

" So ? I didn't like the way he was looking. No, ogling at you." He followed her back but her glare stopped him just near the door, which was good in case he needed an escape. The otherwise beautiful day didn't turn out to be so well when that messuse, the evil ogling white devil, started touching her.. Which in her words was massage but he saw the look and why the hell shoulders ? why not feet.. No No, not feet. Fingers, yes fingers were fine. But no. Does she listen ? Ever !.

" Oh cmmon ! It was just shoulder massage for god's sake !. None of the other ladies or their husbands or boyfriends had problem, but no, the Great Armaan Malik had to create a scene there." she knew how she had made him leave that poor fellow, he almost choked him !

" What could I do ? Turned blind eye to that pervert ?!. You didn't notice the way he was looking at you " if he had his way the man would now be the owner of 412 bones instead of 206 . He was lucky to leave with just a black eye.

" As far as I know you don't like the way 'any man' look at me. You are turning into one possessive jealous green goblin." she remembered how he grabbed that man shaking him from his collars giving him a punch, scaring the daylights off him.

" Hey that's not true ! I'm not jealous of any man. And from which angle do I even remotely look like a goblin ! " turning around he checked himself in the mirror on the opposite wall.

" That was a metaphor !! " Great, here she's discussing his jealousy and he's worried if he looked green ! " and coming from you it's like suddenly Osama declaring he has no issues with America. Heck you can't even bear Leo around me ! " he still didn't knew where this was heading. Bad, Very bad.

" No.. That's not true. Leo I can bear. At least I can kick him if he hangs around too long." She rolled her eyes, exasperated.

" There you go. You are just impossible ! " huffing she turned her face away " what do you want huh, that I stop talking to everyone else and stick around you every second. And trust me if I actually do that you'll be fed up in no time " she tried putting some sense into his thick skull.

Armaan smiled, slowly coming in he stood behind engulfing her " sweetheart, It's not that I want you with me everytime.." he said softly " but its just that.. I don't want anyone else to have you for a second.. I can't bear anyone else touching you and if I could have my way no other man would lay his eyes on you "

He still missed the point and holding a cushion she debated where to hit him but his cute face and those lovely words did their magic. Turning around she sighed " Armaan, sometimes I just don't understand whether I should hug you or scold you.."

" The first sounds better " his hope for getting by rose immediately

" No it doesn't." but was proven wrong next second " And as much as I love you, you need to work on your possessive issues." this needed to be corrected before it got out of hand and she knew how to treat this stubborn baby.

" But.." he protested while she pushed him out.

" No buts, and till then this room is only mine. Good bye "

" Hey you can't do that, I'm the husband yaar ! "

" Really !? watch me.." she was about to close the door when he blocked it.

" Where will I sleep ?? "

" Wherever you want to, just not here.." He managed to catch that pillow missile she threw at him at the nick of time.

" But this is unfair ! you can't fight with me, we're on honeymoon.. Ridhhiimmaa !! " desperate times call for desperate measures.

" Stop yelling ! you had it coming " she glared threateningly " oh stop acting now. I'm not carrying any weapon ! " he was just something ! keeping that pillow before him like a shield.

" But.. But my massage, you know I can't sleep otherwise.." peeking from behind the pillow he tried again.

" Forget it. Isn't it massage that got you in the situation. moreover, I see you're busy massaging your jealousy.." with that she slammed the door shut.

Poor guy had to sleep, Sorry, remain awake alone. That night and few more... It wasn't all, she didn't allow him to come near her for four days ! and it was driving him nuts especially when she roamed about looking all gorgeous and stunningly sexy in all those dresses and that super swim wear reminding him every minute of that beautiful confession day... But it was useless. She was turning into real devil, nothing compared to our poor love struck goblin..

Ridhhima on the other hand had cooled down the same day, who wouldn't, with such cute goblin husband. She wouldn't admit it before him but she kind of liked when he got bit possessive about her.. But then, that day it got bit out of hand.. Tiptoeing to his room late at night she found him sleeping awkwardly with a small frown clutching his pillow.. all her anger went down the drain at the sight.. tucking him properly and planting a soft kiss on his forehead she came back to her, their, room unable to sleep she started looking at their Vegas pics.. smiling lovingly seeing him smile back at her, dressed in a tux at Armano's wedding.. How handsome he looked.. She laughed out seeing the shocked face while Gloria kissed him and right next to her she stood with eyebrows lost in hair line..turning to next she grinned at his scowl when she refused to budge from the slot machine.. His surprised face when she won black jack.. Their celebrations.. The places they went together.. Their lovely moments.. Sweet memories came flooding.. She wondered if she could really stay away from him.. that it was actually her who wanted him every second of her life.. And she could never get tired of him.. Ever.. Restlessness filled her heart. She had to see him again, already missing him terribly. Sneaking into the room again she found him still asleep, sitting sat by his side she just admired him.. for long, pouring love with her eyes caressing his hair.. Even in sleep he could recognize her touch.. his sleepy smile told her. She would have woken him up asking him to come back but suddenly something hit her.. She was just remembering their confession day when it came to her.. If he loved the confession then this would surely drive him crazy..

By the time she came back to the room the plan was clear in her mind.. It would involve some torture but then what could be so sweet than the reward after.. " sorry jaan but I have to do this." planting a soft kiss she came back " You're getting too good at this Mrs.Ridhhima Armaan Malik " patting her back with hearty self appraisal she slumped into the bed, sleeping peacefully.. All set to make hubby dearest work little harder to get his Queen..

The days that followed were.. Weird, but fun. He had loved, laboured for it and he wasn't going to lose.. Our hero didn't had the word give-up in his dictionary. So he was all set to meet the challenge.

He started from apologizing, in his way.. Pouring as much charm and love he can manage.. The very next day of his room banishment Armaan attacked the kitchen.. Buttering and good food are the best weapons when it comes to melt angry wife. Of course there were usual disasters in the kitchen but they couldn't deter him from his resolve. Good for him.

With a hot steamy cup of coffee, scrambled eggs, the way she liked, golden toasts, butter and adding the touch to make the mood- single red rose stick.

Inhaling the aroma he smiled confidently " aah, wifey here I come.."

" Good morning ! " Startled she turned around to find - well, who else. Busy drying her hair with the towel she was mentally perfecting her plan, and thinking about him, when he stepped in. Think of the devil.. But this devil was cute " special breakfast for my queen " raising the tray he kept it on the table, patting the seat next to him he gestured her to sit by his side. Hopefully. Hiding her smile at his efforts she came and sat... opposite him.

He didn't like it.

He knew if he wanted to have his normal wife and life he had to be patient. Bracing himself he tried his luck..

" All your favourite darling.."

She took a sip of the coffee. It was heavenly, but she maintained straight face " hmm.. "

Getting up he sat by her side " hey " he said softly tucking back a wet hair lock " you look beautiful.. I missed you " looking into his eyes she had to summon all her strength not to hug him right away.

" Then you should've been more careful " She was well aware of his condition but to execute her plan it was necessary, telling him would have, kind of, lessened the impact.. Plus deprivation increases craving. The theory was working already.

" I promise sweetheart I'll never behave that way 'ever' again.. Plzz I'm sorry " holding her hand in his he made the cutest face ever.

Putting the cup back she looked into his hopeful eyes. Aww he looked so cute ! " I'll see if there's any improvement " freeing her hand she took a toast munching it lest her resolve dwindled.. But his smile broadened at the positive reply..

As the breakfast went on she kind of forgot about the fight, he had loads of stuff to talk about. Armaan was delighted at the plan going well especially when she fussed about his burnt finger giving it the healing touch of her lips.. He could've jumped over the moon. At least his heart did. Feeling lucky he moved ahead with caressing and kissing.. Ridhhima almost melted like an ice cube in the sun.. Every touch ignited passion fanning the desires.. She too had missed him terribly...

But then there was inner voice and Ridhhima with pointed tail and red horns appeared before her, reminding that there was a task at hand. It took humongous efforts on her part to push him back when she so direly wanted him.

Slapping the back of his hand that was trying to take liberties, she pushed him away " don't even think about it mister. I might not be that mad but I'm still mad."

" But I said sorry naa " Seeing his face fall made it further more difficult. Only the thought that there will be joys greater helped her out.

" That s not enough. I'll decide to revoke your punishment on your conduct.. If there's any improvement."

Armaan unaware of her plan was bit disheartened but if that would put him down then he wouldn't be our Armaan. It just made him even more resolute to win wifey's heart. He agreed, prepared to meet the condition.

" Now cmmon get ready I want to see everything here " sighing he got up to fulfill her majesty's wish " Armaan.." he stopped " aren't you forgetting something ? " puzzled, he mentally checked what she was talking about. But everything was in order and it wasn t any important day as well. Or was it..

" Forgetting what ? " he had to ask now.

" I knew it. You are so forgetful " he still couldn't recall what did he miss. He opened his mouth to ask again but she silenced him " don't fret, at least I remember it "

" But.." that was all he could utter before she pulled him down from his nape and captured his lips into a loving kiss. He was totally taken by surprise, it took him a moment to understand what was actually happening... And then it was all heaven.. Snaking his hands around her waist he pulled her close his lips urging hers to open up. She did. The kiss deepened..

And that was pretty much it.. A few moments.. and then she pulled herself away, little breathless " okay Mister, enough of good morning.. Now go and get ready before it becomes afternoon " poor man. Dazed, couldn't say a word when she pushed him out, again, and shut the door at his face.

For next three days he tried every trick every formula in the book. Did it work ? What do you think ?...

Fine there was substantial decrease in her anger, as if it wasn't there at all at the first place. She would wake him up, wish him, they would laugh shop eat enjoy everything... would also massage his head but everything remained at a distance.. She still made him sleep separately and wouldn't even hear of coming close. He missed her.. Missed sleeping next to her, his body curled against hers with that soft fragrance soothing his senses.. Or with her head resting on his chest an arm around him a leg over his.. Or that simple loving hugs.. He missed feeling that. It wasn't the same thing.. It felt like even though she was there she was still away and he didn't wanted any distance from her.

But one thing was for sure, no matter how angry she got, he knew he could never bring himself to not to feel so protective about her. She was just too precious to be careless, and if that made him possessive then he was. Thank god he was good liar too, and with little more practice he was sure he could convince her that he would not behave that way in future.

It was the fourth day and the mission to win wifey, that started with great zest and zeal was now facing some strong gales. She even left him alone once and went for- some important work. She didn't disclose what. And it was futile to push that info. out of her..

Walking into the control room he looked for the captain but he wasn't there. His eyes then fell on the cross with Jesus Christ, on the wall, may be it was time to request for some divine intervention. Checking if he was alone he stood before it " hello god." waving he smiled broadly " I guess you are still mad at me for sleeping during the sermon huh.. but just be honest, wasn't he boring ? I bet if you'd have listened to it then you too would've fallen asleep " but then he realized what he'd said " oh no. I didn't mean that way. I mean of course you were there. You are everywhere but.. But.. Okay fine " he exhaled defeated " I'm sorry... It's my fault. But I thought we were good especially when I tried to follow that priest's words.. but then that blunder. Tell me, if I protect my wife then am I wrong ? No naa. But still. She thinks I'm over possessive. If being caring means so, then be it " folding his arms across his chest he huffed, for a moment " okay. I shouldn't have punched that man. He.. May be.. was doing his work.. But haven't I apologized enough !?.. Don't they say fruit of patience is sweet. Always sweet. And after 4 days it should be sweetest of all isn't it.? Wrong. I'm still not allowed in the room let alone anything else. Fine we go out shop enjoy. She even have allowed my morning quota, my massages. But that's it. It stops there. Nothing else. Zilch. Is this your way of punishing me ? Then I must tell you are going waayy over. I mean cmmon yaar I'm on my honeymoon ! After more than 7 months of our marriage ! Have some mercy man !, you know the word don't you ??... Don't you.. Oh, you were single. I forgot. But I'm married yaar ! " then something striked him " Say " he stepped closer to the figure, almost whispering " lets have a deal.. you cool her down and I'll go to church next Sunday, sit for the whole sermon and I won't sleep. Gentleman's Promise. Okay ? Done " he raised his thumbs " good, then it's a deal. I leave you now... to let you do...umm your stuff okay... Bye. See you on Sunday " raising a thumb he winked and left.

Tired after hours of scuba diving she lied flat on the deck " huh, that was just amazing ! I'm soo tired. Armaan.. Can you carry me to the room please " and spread her arms to lift her. He obliged gladly..

Running a hand over his strong torso she felt her heartbeat accelerating.. Tiny droplets of water flowed down from his wet hair down to his firm chest and the sculpted body was... She sighed consoling herself that wait is going to get over soon...

Armaan could feel her eyes on him but he resolutely kept his eyes in front.. He too can play hard to get, he smirked inwardly.. Finally wifey's resolution was giving away and by the look he was sure tonight, or before, he would be back in their room.. mentally he gave thumbs up to god, he was quick ! No wonder he's God..

" Armaan.. Where are we going tonight ? " she asked innocently, trying desperately not to lose her control..

" It's a lovely place.. La Plage. You'll love it " he smiled and in the pretext of turning the door knob raised her a bit.. Just inches away from his face.. so close that she could smell him.. Ridhhima prayed furiously.. ' Plz god plz god just till tonight.Why the hell he has to wear that cologne ! '

Thankfully the click of door lock broke the spell and she quickly gathered herself " Okay then, put me down " he couldn't understand why but did it anyway.. With that oh so smile on her face she opened the door. His heart somersaulted. He was so in the room. Heart jumping over the moon. Yes yes yesss !!

How wrong.

Getting in she turned to him keeping the door ajar just enough to show her face " where are you coming ? " he looked back startled " I'm so tired, I need a nap.. I'll see you at 7 okay. Be on time " throwing a flying kiss she shut the door at his face.

He stood there for a moment mouth agape, trying to figure what just happened and then he realized he was still outside!!. Putting hands on his waist he looked up. " Yeah right ! Some work you are doing here.. Huh " with a look at the closed door he went back to the other room.. Shaking his head mumbling, wondering if he should raise the stakes.. And they say God doesn't take bribes..

La plage lived upto its reputation.. The exclusive services and royal treatment made it a hive for rich and famous from all over the world.. He specially picked this place, anything less would be a disgrace for his queen.. While she enjoyed a live dance show with her dessert a business associate spotted Armaan asking for a word.. She obliged. Sitting at the bar they talked... Armaan listened half heartedly trying to focus on what the man was talking but he was rather more concerned with some other deal with someone else.. Few minutes later the man left. Thankfully..

" Good evening sir.." a blonde waitress came flashing her pearls while he was still at the bar finishing his drink " here's an invitation for you " she extended a silver tray.

" Invitation ?! From ? " his eyes followed the direction she pointed at... There the lady was, their eyes met bringing a curious smile.. What was it about ? Curious, he quickly flicked open the card..

" Something exclusive.. Just for you.. You know where to find me. Come alone.

P.S: Make sure you have exactly 7 pieces of clothing on you. "

Gulping down the drink he got on his feet immediately.. This was going to be hell lot interesting.

Walking through the small corridor he stood before a door. It has to be this place. Taking a deep breath he knocked and waited... His heart thumping against his chest with curious excitement. He again mentally checked that he followed the instruction in the card..

The door opened with a soft click and a pretty face appeared " So you're here. Come in "

Smiling he followed " Uh lady I think you should know something before we.. I'm a married man and I love my wife a lot "

Standing few paces away she turned " Oh really ? Then I think we're even.." coming closer she ran a finger down his face " coz I love my husband very much as well "

Circling the arms around her waist he pulled her close " is that why you banned him from the room... Keeping him away for days "

She giggled " He kinda deserved it, plus something else too " locking her arms around his neck she planted a soft kiss on his cheek.

His smile widened " but seriously Ridhhima, what's this all about ? " he flashed the card before her coming out of lets act mode.

" Well I think I got infected with Vegas virus " he raised a brow questioningly " yeah really, I mean you've shown some real improvement and this is your final test. If you manage to pass then.. You'll get the ultimate reward " she winked.. gosh this was going to be soo wonderful.

" Okay I'm ready for it. What do I have to do ? " He asked all excited

" Simple, you have to play a game with me " taking her hand she took him to the center of the room. There he saw something like a board game spread on the floor a bowl with few folded chits and a pair of dice.. All set for the players.. At first when he got the card he was super excited then he saw her walking away from La Plage and knew all he had to do was follow. The wait was finally over.. though the clothing part was bit odd but it was his last concern.. He almost ran to the yacht then to the room.. It didn't look like anything before.. There were candles lit everywhere a sweet smell hung around.. Some flowers, more than regular, placed at the corners and Ridhhima.. He was stunned for a moment.. She was wearing most provocative revealing dress of all and the way she talked phew.. It was like he was seeing a dream... this was totally transformed version of his sweet wife.. But whatever her motive was behind all this preparation he was sure she was on her way to success..

Ridhhima on the other hand was thinking on the same lines. The moment she saw him going along with that business associate she knew it was the perfect time to start with her work.. All afternoon she worked on the perfect setting and past four days she'd spend working hard on perfecting her plan.. This was really going to be a surprise for her hubby dearest.. the beginning seemed promising, the look in his eyes told her that she had it all.

" What game is it ? " he asked

" Have patience... Cmmon, sit down " she pointed to a place opposite her.

He did and as soon as she took the seat opposite him his eyes almost popped out.. Already he was finding it hard to concentrate on anything else especially with that rosy deep neck blouse giving him hard time to look anywhere else.. Plus her wearing the tiniest of skirts wasn't helping either, every time she walked it swayed a little giving just a hint of her perfect curves.. he sighed this was really a hard test... as she sat across with legs crossed he got the clear glimpse of her derriere.. It was impossible to avoid it when it was flashing itself so boldly in all it's purple beauty.. He wondered if the other thing was purple too.. Nice colour.. His typical male brain instantly started picturing it all..

" Excuse me." she snapped her fingers bringing his attention from there to up her " stop dreaming and pay attention " clearing his throat he sat up a little like a student eager for his favourite lecture.. " this is a sort of.. Love game. Invented by me.." she declared proudly " I thought why not make our time more memorable here and also after all your efforts it was only fair to give you another chance " he rolled his eyes amused by her explanation " so before we start I must clear the rules first and you must swear to follow them to T "

He couldn't bear to finish it let alone start so quickly took the oath she demanded " good. Now tell me are you wearing the specific number of clothes ? "

" Yes. Should I show them ? " he grabbed his coat ready to take it off but she stopped him

" No need, I can see that. So now.. the rules, listen very carefully.." like he wasn't " as you see I've prepared everything, first we are going to start with simple game of ludo but only with one pawn.. We'll play two games simultaneously.."

" How ?? "

" Mch, wait na. As there are two dices there will be no Number 1 and only six, in atleast one dice will bring the pawn out.. Without which real game won't start. Understood ? " he nodded " for every number we get there is a folded chit with directions to follow.."

" So how can we win ? "

" Well, one who gets the other to the minimum.. Dress wise.. wins the special prize "

His eyes lit up " So if I get you to minimum then.."

" You win me.. And you get to do something you like " she stated hiding her blush

His eyes twinkled with naughtiness " so that means if you get me to the minimum then.."

" Yes, then I win you.."

" And then we get to do something which you 'like'.." rubbing his hands he grinned impishly " I just love when you do something you 'like' "

An impish smile spread on her face " You still have to learn few things about your wife hubby.. you see, I don't spend my winnings, I like to save them.." He wondered what did she mean by 'saving them' does that mean they won't be doing it if he loses.. Oh crap ! suddenly losing wasn't that fun..

" But.. What if it's a tie ? " he asked

" In that case I have thought of a way to decide as well. But that's for later "

" And in case the number gets repeated "

" Then we'll move the pawns on the board until the unused number comes up. But remember when asked to.. do something, then you have to go in a systematic manner... Umm lets say not like superman. No underwear before pants. Is it clear ? " he chuckled getting clearly what she meant.

" Aye aye madam. No superman. So shall we start ? "

" Yes.." taking the dices she rolled them on the board.. The total of two dices was 5, a 3 and a 2.. She passed the dices to him, again the result was a non opener.. It carried on for a while when Armaan finally managed to break through.

" Yess I got it !! A six ! " and he got his pawn out in the game. Ridhhima wasn't far behind and in the next roll she was in the game too. It was his turn next, rolling the dices he waited anxiously..

" Number 5. Lets see what it has.." he picked up the chit with number 5 " take off 2 clothes " he grinned triumphantly " with pleasure " and took off the coat and socks.. in record speed like they were deadly infected.

Giving a mock smile she took up the dices and rolled them on board. " 2. Hmm lets see.."

" Yeah, like you don't know " he scoffed

" I did write them mister but I wrote the numbers randomly. After folding them. So I don't know which has what "

" Yeah yeah I believe you. Will you see what it is " he still had some doubts but didn't wanted to waste a second.

" Okayy " she opened the chit and her brows shot up reading it.

" What is it ? " he asked eagerly

" Uhh.." " don't try to stall, cmmon tell me " but when she fumbled for the words he snatched away the paper from her hands " Whoa ! This is awesome. Makeout for 3 minutes ! " she turned crimson, reprimanding herself for writing such thing. This might put a stop to game he thought, especially after four days of sabbath.. But she smiled inwardly patting herself. She was prepared for this too. Unaware of her plan he continued " best 3 minutes of the day. Cmmon honey, game rules " he grinned swaying the chit before her eyes. Giving a broad saccharine smile she replied " Exactly 3 minutes. Sweetheart "

He narrowed his eyes smiling confidently, probably thinking of putting a stop to the game there and then " We'll see " and pulled her in his arms locking his lips with hers instantly, forbidding another word...

For a moment it looked as if he would prove right.. She started melting with his touch and he knew exactly what she liked.. After a minute her own determination started swaying, he was kissing her crazy, not that she wasn't adding to the passion.. Two minutes later his tie hung loose and shirt buttons were open.. Nestled in his lap her small jacket was half way down her shoulders,hands busy messing his hair and he was fully engrossed in exploring her.. Seconds trickled by and intensity soared high... He was about to capture her lips again nuzzling up from her chest to neck when...

A shrill voice startled him, he almost jumped throwing her off his lap. " What was that ?! " he looked around for the source.

Ridhhima got a chance to come out of his spell, gaining control she grabbed the alarm clock " it's called Bringing-back-to-game device " shutting off the shrilly ringing alarm clock.

He couldn't believe it that she actually timed their makeout session " back to game ! You don't really mean it. Do you ?? " her mock smile gave him the answer. She was serious about the game.. Throwing his hands in the
air he expelled a deep sigh " This is so unfair ! "

" Really. Why didn't you say so when I got that chit ? "

" Do they have more of such things ? " he asked eying the bowl, getting excited again.

" You'll see if you play " she said, passing him the dices. He rolled again kissing them the way Shakuni mama would have felt proud of him..

But the next number was 2 again, disappointed he gave back the dices to giggling Ridhhima mumbling that game is fixed.. He was proved wrong when she got a 3..

" Aha 3 ! " and before she could even extend her hand he picked up the chit " take off 1. Yess, I love this game " and eyed hungrily as she took off her mini jacket.

Now three numbers were gone, 5, 2, and 3.. The next turn was his which brought lucky number 7...

But that frown on his face said something else " What is this ? This is cheating ! " she took the chit from his hand and smiled " this is not cheating and you have to do it, cmmon hurry up " frowning he picked up his coat and wore it again. Yes, the chit said that he had to put back one piece of clothing. Apparently he wasn't happy with the condition, 7 was suppose to be the lucky number !.

The next few rolls gave the repeated small numbers and finally Ridhhima broke the chain " hmm number 9. Lets see " he was getting impatient and a new number instantly grabbed his attention. Ridhhima read it out " take off 1 " he celebrated raising his hand up in the air, but she was clever enough.. Raising a shapely leg she slowly rolled down the thin black stocking.. Her milky skin appearing like sun from the dark clouds held his eyes completely, heart thudding mouth agape he just painfully watched the process repeated for the other leg.. This was torture, like his favourite sweet kept behind a glass where he could see but was unable to touch.. No wonder she made him take oath to stay at his place till the game ends.. He sighed praying.. How long god ??..

As soon as the stocking show was over she sat up again facing him, hands in her lap and a rosy smile on her lips.. Extremely happy seeing the desired effects on hubby dearest, mentally praising herself.. May be god listened to this wife tortured husband and the next roll got him something to rejoice..

" Take off 2 ! Yippee " and threw away the coat and tie. rejoicing that now only 4 clothes were left on him, shirt trousers and 2 inners whereas she had her skirt blouse a slip and the sexy purple inners.. But then he remembered, he had to bring her to the minimum or she would 'save' her winning. This thought dampened his happiness a little.

The next few rolls were again no show but then again it was her turn and she got a 4.. This scared him wavering his faith in god.. She had to put on 1, making her dress in more than he was in.. He frowned as she put on her jacket.

It was his turn and luckily he drew out number 8 " hmm, both have to ask one question from each other for right answer questioner take off two and incorrect take off 1. Hmm this isn't bad. Okay, ladies first.. What do you want to ask ? "

She thought for a moment " uh okay, what was I wearing on our first date ? " she challenged wagging her eyebrows.

" Ha ! this is easy. But since you didn't mention official or unofficial I'll tell the answer to both. On our first unofficial date, that was the breakfast on Sanjivani's roof you wore a white suit and on our official, one sided date, Pauls' party you wore a red saree that I got for you " he smiled smugly sure of the answer. She scrunched her nose ofcourse he was right. He and his elephantine memory ! " so now sweetheart bid goodbye to two "

" Not so soon jaan, your question is still left.. So ask "

" Okay then tell me.. When did you fell in love with me ? " he said rather softly

This was rather unexpected, looking into his eyes she felt that this was just an excuse for something he wanted to know probably for long.. And it was time she told him the truth..

" Well, unlike what you think I fell in love with you long back when we were just kids.." it was his turn to be surprised. She smiled softly walking through memory lanes " I fell in love with you the day we ate food in the moon light stealing from the kitchen.. When we had war over our stuff toys.. When we shared the swing on that old mango tree at home.. And now.. whenever we are together I fall in love with you over and over again for every little thing you do for me or for just for being you and being there with me.. But yes.. it all started the day when world started making sense.. Probably this was why Vivek's cheating never hurt that much coz I had my true love with me.. forever " she smiled softly, eyes looking deep into his.. For a moment neither spoke.. Both overwhelmed with emotions..

Desperate to hug him she leaned forward.. But..

Her hand fell on the Alarm clock which instantly rang out shrilly.. Breaking the beautiful moment " damn ! This is seriously a spoiler " he cursed the clock and while he was busy cursing she quickly pecked his cheek grinning " hey ! That's too small. I deserve a big one "

" Then win me and you'll get whatever you wish " she winked

" Oh I will, just wait. And by the way that was correct answer take off two " he grinned impishly

" So were you sweetheart. So kiss your shirt and trouser goodbye " he did that but not before making her take off her jacket and blouse..

He now sat in his inners while she had her slip skirt and inners. This was getting really close.. She had to remind him several times that he should look at the dices rather than gawking at her.. But how can she know how hard it was for him when she sat right before him in all her feminine glory. Poor man..

The game was getting real close with only 3 unused numbers and 2 clothes on his part and 4 clothes on her, one just couldn't tell who would win..

Ridhhima won the next unused number.. It was 11. " hmm, I have a good feeling about this one "

" That sounds like a punishment for me "

She ignored the comment and giggled reading it " You were right " she forwarded the slip " Partner, that is you, must make love to the winner of this number, which is me, at an uncommon place "

His ears shot up hearing it " This is a punishment ?! You name it sweetheart, I can make love to you anywhere " he declared happily

" Haha, you want me to do everything. No way. You decide the place, get my consent, only then we'll go ahead, okay. And yeah I'm telling you in advance I don't want any closets plus balconies and cars inspired by
movies like Murder and Titanic are also out of question " he looked incredulous.

" Cmmon yaar ! Why do you have to make it so tough ?! Now how am I suppose to find this unusual place "

" I don't know how, but you have to or else you know me well " he gulped at those scary narrowed eyes and deadly smile. Another task at hand only good thing, this wasn't required to be done immediately.

As maximum numbers were used the game got bit slow and tension rose, there were still clothes to bid goodbye and Ridhhima was clearly leading whereas poor man was reduced to merely vest and underwear..

The god couldn't have been more unfair. She won another unused number. A 12. " yess !! " she did a small victory dance sitting on the spot

" yeah yeah I can see you are in a strong position but can you atleast read it out first "

" With pleasure jaan... Partner has to do something that the winner of this number likes no matter how much he/she dislike are terrified or disgusted by it. Yess !! " she continued her dance.

He sighed " I should've got that. Have a perfect thing in mind for you.. Not something you'd exactly experiment, pretty disgusting for you " he winked

She stopped dancing, her mouth fell open " Armaan you.. You are really disgusting ! "

" Hey crabs are considered a delicacy you know "

" Crabs ?? "

" Yess crabs." he raised a brow " What did you think I was going to ask ? "

" I.. I.. Nothing I was just.." bloody hell why did she open her mouth. mentally kicking herself. But the damage was done " Wait a minute.. you didn't think that I was... You seriously thought that.." his impish grin broadened by second.

" Oh please ! I never go that way " she rolled her eyes hoping to wave it off.

" Yes I'm right, you actually did go that way.." she was caught, no use. He burst out laughing " Wow sweetheart, I love the way your mind is working these days.." he winked catching the cushion she threw at him.

" You want to continue or not ? " she must do something or this embarrassment would kill her.

" Of course, you have my complete attention my love. I can do anything for you " and squeezed the pillow in his arms fluttering his eyes.

Ignoring his antics she picked up a pen " here. Sign it. "

" Don't you trust me ?? " he said in a mock hurt tone

" Don't act now. I would've signed it as well if you'd won. Rules of the game " he chuckled signing it. Happy, she folded the paper keeping it in her purse safely " Well for this one, I will think about it and let you know what I want as it can be redeemed anytime and you have to fulfill this condition. And for your information, under no circumstances I'm going to eat crabs " he sniggered again, this was really fun.

" Aye aye madam.. Anything you like " He winked

Now the result rested on one single number.. The fate, it seemed was puzzled whom to support.. Both rolled on feverishly getting a number after another pushing the pawns for that one magical number 10..

And then it happened..

" Yahooo !! " she fell back startled. It was a sight, he was dancing crazy like a monkey in a vest and underwear ! " Yesss ! I got it now be prepared for the revenge of the Underwear Man with lucky number 10 "
adding to his craziness he laughed like a devil.

Ridhhima rolled her eyes, he was one of a kind that she knew.. But this reaction !it was totally unexpected " okay Mr. Revenge. Will you sit down first " but he grabbed the chit and opened it quickly " yess yes yes.. You. Take off two. Dhinka chika dhinka chika " she was amazed at the sight. He could clearly give any south indian hero run for his money..

Nonetheless she did took off the two clothes..

And instantly his antics stopped..drawing in a sharp breath his gaze riveted on the sight before his eyes, Ridhhima turned crimson under his intense gaze.. " Armaaan plzz. Can you not stare at me like that " she had to say it now.

" I can't.. You look amazing. And this colour.. Awesome " he sighed..moving next to her, tucking her hair behind her ear he whispered huskily" finally I got you "

But when she giggled in response he got confuse " hey what happened ? Don't spoil the mood yaar "

" Sorry sweetheart, have to make a tiny correction here " he was still confused " you did not win me "

This was no less than thunderclap " What !? But.."

" Look again jaan "

And then he noticed. She was right they both were left in their inners only.. It was a draw. " Damn ! But what now ? "

" Well since it's a tie I think its time to take out the wild card " she cleared her throat, colour rising to her cheeks.. The look itself was worth it but he wondered what she had in mind that caused it, must be something interesting.. " well you see here are two folded sheets, each has some clues. First will lead you to second, second to third and so forth, there are 5 in all. But.. only one sheet's clues will lead you.. to me..."

" And the other ?? " he didn't like the sound of another chance game, first one was draw what if he loses this one.

" The other will lead you to the couch, in other room, where you'll have to spend rest of the night. Alone. And until you fulfill that uncommon place condition there will be no.. Lets say, coming close. Not even good mornings. " though she said it with full sunny smile it was no less then death sentence for him.

" Crap ! " this wasn't as easy as he thought. But he wasn't giving up so easily " but why do I have to pick, why not you ? "

" Because darling you rolled the dice last, you got the tie number. And now you're simply wasting time " she clarified

" Okay, fine. I'll be back in no time " being Armaan he readily accepted the challenge. And also because he knew well he can not win from her. Praying in his heart he selected one sheet and got on his feet.

" Wait a minute. What are you doing ? " getting up she walked to his side.

" What does it look like ? I'm putting on my pants " but before he could put in one leg she pulled it away. " Heyy ! "

" No, you can't. Game rules. Once it's off, its off. You can't wear them back on your own "

" You gotta be kidding me ! You mean to say I have to move out like this ! In my underwear !! What if the staff see me like this ?? "

But this had no effect on her, with a broad saccharine smile she pushed him from the back out to the door " Don't worry darling, I'm sure you'll come up with something.. After all like you said you are 'The Underwear Man', better than Superman isn't it " he scowled at her mocking grin and wink " and oh one more thing, if you take more than 30 minutes to solve the clues then you won't be getting in.. even with the right clue sheet. So good luck ! " he opened his mouth to say something but she slammed the door shut shouting from inside " your time starts.. Now "

He gave up the idea of pleading, it was Do or Die situation and he was just not ready to lose. Praying again that he had the right sheet he opened it and read the first clue " I'm at the season's door. What the hell is this ! Now where the hell is this season !! " the first clue dampened his spirit, if this is his condition in first what will happen in other four.. If he cracked the first that is.. But he couldn't just stand here, he has to find this 'season's door '. " cmmon Armaan. Think man think.. Okay cool down first " he took a deep breath " seasons, how many seasons are there. Winter, Summer, Spring, Rain. 4.." he did the math " I'm at the season's door.." he thought hard repeating the seasons.. Suddenly something striked " of course ! What else ! You are genius Armaan Malik " and hiding from the staff and patroling security men he made way to the deck and jumped with happiness seeing an envelope with just a corner peeking out of the main door. He was right, the yacht's name was Summer that was also a season and all he had to do was to go to the main door and get the second clue. Simple. Grabbing the envelope he ran to a nearby closet.. Switching on the light he brought out the second clue.

" Congratulations, you crossed the first hurdle " he patted his back and continued " now I'm in control " he turned the page there was nothing else. He sighed " Wifey you are always in control.. Couldn't you had just
elaborated it little more " he whispered to the sheet, lest anyone passing by hear him. He checked the watch 10 minutes were already up, he had to hurry.

" Think man think. I'm in control.. Yaar pehle mausam dhundo phir control.. Upar se my wife is total out of control " he sighed and closing his eyes fell back on the wall. But suddenly his eyes popped open " Armaan, you idiot ! "

Running out as stealthily as he could he made way to the second floor of the yacht. Unfortunately there he met the captain who was busy tinkling with the computer. For a moment he stood behind the door scanning the control room for the envelope and then he saw it, right there on the file table under the paper weight.. The clock was ticking and he couldn't afford to waste time. Tiptoeing he walked behind captain's back and secured the envelope, turning back the same way..

Coming out in a secure area he gave million thanks to god for saving his izzat before his staff " Wifey I'll have my day someday.." opening the envelope he got his third clue " Wonderful ! You are a genius ! And trust me you look yummy ! " he grinned " who can argue with you on that point sweetheart. But as you said I'm genius " by this time he had fair idea what was going on in her mind and third clue was cake walk.

Sneaking into the kitchen for the fourth was easy but to get the clue was difficult. The chef and his assistant were preparing dinner for the staff hence their leaving the kitchen was impossible. Moreover, the clue was
sitting right in the middle of a vegetable basket that hung from the ceiling. He had to go there climb on the slab and get it..

The target was clear and he was focussed.. he rushed to the nearest phone and in a beautiful English accent called for the chef and his assistant pretending to be their family. 2 minutes and two fake calls later the coast was all clear, without wasting a second he grabbed the clue and ran as if a tiger was after his life.

Reaching near the pool on the deck he stopped catching his breath.. Last ten minutes were left and still two clues were at hand.." You are my true Superman.. And what a lovely evening it is... Lovely evening ! Why don't you try solving these clues then I'll ask you how lovely the evening is. God please sahi sheet pakdayi hai na kabhi aaj bhi patta cut " praying for mercy he set out on solving the clue " lovely evening..hmm " he remembered the time when they sat right here on the deck watching the sunset " yess, that's it. It should be here somewhere " and he started looking for the envelope.. It didn't take him long it was right there on the pool handle... He tore it open " Well done, now lets see what's the verdict.. Follow the arrows " folding his hands he looked up mumbling a short pray.. The arrows weren't difficult to find one after another he followed them.. from deck to entertainment room to kitchen, thankfully not inside, to again control room to the roof and then his heart started thudding the arrows now moved to the corridor of their room.. He would have been happy but the scary part was the other room was there too..

Following the arrows he stopped suddenly as the last arrow crossed the extra room and the only other room was theirs.. He walked up to it and saw an arrow hitting the bulls eye.

He jumped with joy, doing a small victory dance he had the correct clue sheet !. But then without wasting time he knocked the door. Ridhhima appeared wearing a loose robe and a seductive smile " What took you so long genius ? "

" Just this and that, but I fully intend to compensate for the waiting " stepping in he pulled her up in his arm and kicked the door shut..

It doesn't require a genius to guess what went on next and after hours of compensation they lay there in each others arm enjoying each others presence.. This was one hell of a day and never before they felt this kind of urgency or passion in their love making.. Probably it was the fruit of patience which made it extra sweet, not to forget the hard work put in by both..

Both were quiet, savouring the sweet moment her head resting on his chest an arm around him while he caressed her back softly. He was amazed when she told him that this game was the reason she had kept him away for so long, it shocked him for a moment but then it was momentary after all it was a unique idea and he was compensated, and will be compensated, heartily..

" Jaan.."

" hmm "

" I was wondering what if you'd won the last roll.. What would you've done then ? "

She chuckled " then I'd simply have said that coz I won the last chance you should pick the clue sheet "

His brows shot up " this means this way or that, I was suppose to get the clue sheet " she grinned naughtily nodding " you are just something you know " and laughing along he squeezed her in his embrace " But tell me something.." she waited " what clues did you put in that other list.."

" Oh that. Nothing, don't bother about that " waving her hand she smirked.

" Cmmon I'm curious ! "

" Okay, if you have to " freeing herself from his arms she picked up the other sheet and thrusted it in his hand grinning " here, see for yourself "

He sat up reading the sheet eagerly.. " Hey I asked for the other sheet, it's the one I chose ! "

" No it is the other one. You see hubby, considering your luck in chance games I wasn't prepared to take any risks. So, wrote one and got it xeroxed " she stated in a matter of fact tone.

His mouth fell open in surprise " Wifey, you're a devil ! "

" Thank your stars for that hubby " she winked, enjoying his surprised amused expression throughly." But jaan "

" Hmm " he mumbled eyes still on the clue sheet

" Next time when you make a deal with God please check for the security cameras around first " his head jerked up, turning his head he found her grinning.

" What do you mean ?? " of course she knew, but how ??. propping himself on the elbow he asked

" Just a fortunate accident. I was in the control room.. Curious about boat mechanism.. Security and stuff, also trying to place the clues when I saw a recording.. A very interesting deal being made " he groaned falling back, embarrassed he hid his face with a pillow while she laughed heartily.. God did had a very unique sense of humour.

" Cmmon, it was sooo cute ! " she snatched away the pillow " Please don't call it cute. It was stupid. Did you erase it ? Did anyone else see it ? Please tell me No " horrified at the thought of his deal becoming public.

" No they didn't. I took it away, but I'm going to keep it with me. It's priceless " she declared putting an arm around him resting her head back on his chest. " I'll thank God when we go to church this Sunday "

" What ?! But why ? This was pre planned. It would've happened anyway "
" But you didn't knew that. What if I've changed my mind at the last minute hmm ? Learn to honour your deals mister. " repriminding him

He knew she was right. Deal is a deal. " okayy. Fine. We'll go " satisfied she gave him a big sloppy kiss bringing back his smile

" But you deserve a punishment for being such a naughty devil.." the naughty glint was back in his eyes.

" What are you waiting for then.." and she pulled him in her embrace.. There was time still, why not make most of it.

Next Sunday he did honour the deal. By the word. And that happiness.. That proud glimmer in her eyes, made it worth all that.

And for that he was really thankful to God.

After a dedicated morning service they decided to spend some time at a lovely beach little away.. A secluded place full of natural beauty...

" I just can't believe it ! Some people are just.. Arrgh " Ridhhima stormed in the living room while Armaan followed looking very amused.

" Cmmon sweetheart, it happens. Why are you so worked up.. "

" 'These' kind of things just don't happen Armaan ! I mean cmmon I don't know about them but it was a terrible experience for me.. Now I'm going to have nightmares of them doing that " she frowned clearly displeased.

He laughed " I don't think they are called nightmares darling, the term is we.."

" Yes I know." she stopped him midway " Thank you very much, but let me remind you I'm a doctor " he was still grinning sprawled on the couch. Suddenly she stopped pacing around and turned, eying him suspiciously.. " Did you do that deliberately ? " raising a brow.

" Me ? Noo ! " he sat up hearing it pulling her on the couch making her sit between his legs back resting on his chest " Cmmon darling, why would I do that ? I get enough action, with my awesome lovely innovative devil, why would I go and watch it outside ! " she fell quiet knowing he was right..

Exhaling a sigh she fell back, snuggling closer making herself more comfortable " hmm, I guess you're right.. But still if they had to make love on the beach couldn't they have been more thoughtful of the place.. I mean.. Just imagine how many people would've walked on them.." she shook her head in complete disapproval

" Don't be so judgemental sweetheart, we did walked quiet far and that was quiet a secluded area.. Our walking on them was pure accident " he tried to explain. she knew what he meant but still found it hard to digest the fact that they walked in on a couple in their very private moment..

" I guess you're right.. It is kinda romantic " she admitted, softening.

" There you go." happy that she finally understood " You know they did gave me an idea.. Ehem.. I was wondering if we.."

" No we can't " she turned in his arms, head now on his shoulder

" No ?? But why ? You just said it was romantic "

" Yes it is very romantic.. Beautiful. but its such a private moment I don't want that what happened to them happening to us "

" Nothing happened with them ! They didn't even notice " he tried explaining.. And maroing chance.

" Yeah, they obviously had inbuilt resistance to shame." he rolled his eyes " you know it felt like watching walk in live beach po*n "

He chuckled at her cute scowl " now you're turning me on sweetheart "

Nuzzling her hair he tighten his hold but she pulled away. Not finished with the subject " don't kill it jaan.. Anyone can make love on a beach, its such a cliche plus I don't want our private moment to be disturbed by anything, I would have this running in my mind that someone might just, even if accidentally, come there.." he was amused to see her dilemma " So even though it would be beautiful yet it would kill the mood. and me, of embarrassment "

" Hmm, you know Sherlock, you think too much." but seeing her eyes narrowing he modified his statement " but you do have a point. I can't take that risk.. But still.." he wasn't giving up so soon " Think about it.. how beautiful it would be.. you.. me.. in the moon light.. beautiful view of vast sea.. lovely cool breeze.." with every word she could picture herself with him in that beautiful paradise just like Adam and Eve.. He continued " and didn't you said you like beaches.. and love making love so why not.." his kiss on her cheek brought her back from the dreamland.. she could sense naughtiness in his tone.

" Don't try to put words in my mouth mister. I know what you're trying to do here.. And that reminds me that your condition is still to be fulfilled." he frowned at that reminder " I've made myself clear.. if you want to come close then you have to make love to me at some uncommon place or forget it... For atleast a month "

" What ?? Still ?! For a month !! " he slumped back defeated. She never forgot anything, he just lost his chance to fulfill the wretched condition.

" Yupp "

" You can't be serious."

" Unfortunately hubby dearest. I am. And remember I must consent for the place too otherwise it won't be taken into consideration " he tried persuading her to change but she didn't budge and now probably have to wait for a month or for her to weaken, a feat itself, to be together... He had to think of something fast or his sabbath would start again..

With a task to complete at hand Armaan's mind refused to rest.. Waking up suddenly in the middle of the night he found her sleeping peacefully by his side, an arm around him, snuggled close.. Careful not to disturb, he extended an arm for the remote of the TV.. this was the time to think..

Surfing the channels he stopped at one, moments later, a smile started making its way on his face and within minutes it was full fledged triumphant toothy grin.

Switching off the TV he lied next to her snuggling close.. sighing contentedly as she pulled him closer, sleepily, putting an arm under his head another wrapping him... What a day.. Sorry, night.

Sitting on the breakfast table on a happy bright morning Ridhhima tried to fathom the reason of Armaan's smile as he spread some butter on his toast.. he looked... relaxed, she wondered if she was the reason behind it or something else added to bring those darling dimples.. Her chain of thought broke when a servant came out trolling two bags behind him...

" The bags are ready sir "

" Thank you Josh. Tell Sam that we'll be down in few minutes, he should be ready " the servant gave a small bow and left along with bags.

Ridhhima waited till the man was out " Armaan yeh bags ? Are we going somewhere ? Are we going back already ?? " she couldn't hide that disappointment from her voice fearing that his work must've played villain again.

Armaan chuckled " Do you really think that I would take you back so soon ?. No, we're going to Paris "

Another surprise " Paris !. But.. But so suddenly ? You never said anything yesterday "

" Oh I wanted to, but you were asleep.." she looked puzzled " actually the thought suddenly came to my mind that I had promised my wonderful lovely wife a trip to Europe. So, here we go "

" But I didn't even packed ! Don't even know ki bags main hai kya ? "

" Mch , you worry too much Sherlock.. Even if something is left there are shops in Paris to take care of that. Just relax, and go and change we have to leave " Ridhhima jumped from her seat and dashed toward the room but not before giving him a tight hug and a big kiss on cheek.

He smiled broadly munching his toast.. Wifey won't be saying no to that. A very memorable trip, this was going to be..

Sitting on the plush leather chair with feet drawn up and nose almost touching the glass of the window she admired the craftsmanship of God.. While she was busy admiring the beauty of heaven and earth he was busy admiring her..

" You know Armaan I just love it up here.. These clouds it seems as if we're walking on them in heaven " she said, without shifting her gaze..

He smiled " Absolutely, no wonder some people never wish to get down.. For anything "

" Yeah, I once saw a couple who got married in the plane.. Just to be out of the ordinary " he nodded, this was going exactly he'd planned..

" Exactly, quiet unusual na "

" Hmm " she replied completely unaware of what was going on his mind

Getting up from his seat Armaan came and sat by her side " people get engaged even get married this high up here.. Ever heard of someone spending honeymoon on a plane.." Ridhhima turned to see him smiling suggestively, now slowly grasping what he was leading to " or completing their wife's innovative condition " and with that Ridhhima was left with no doubt what he meant..

" Armaan.." her cheeks turned pink, she didn't really expect him to take that stupid condition so seriously.. She was merely kidding with that threat of hers " Armaan here ?!.. It's okay, you can leave it.. I was merely kidding " though she said it yet there was part which was jumping with excitement, wanting him to go on and really happy that he even bothered himself with so much of thought.

" No way sweetheart, Armaan Malik never leaves a challenge unfinished.. And by the rosiness on your face I take that this place fits all your requirements " she turned crimson at this comment and lost her speech, he came closer holding her by the waist and made her sit on his lap, nuzzling her hair " you can't back off now " she was amazed how her heart still skipped a beat with his touch, " I have to fulfill the condition... we have plenty of time.. Without anyone to disturb us " with that he placed his lips on hers, not willing to waste time in fulfilling the condition.. With all the consent in the world from her...

A month.. A very romantic month and Paris, Rome, Switzerland and Scotland later, they were again on board, this time as he said, making final stop before, however reluctantly, they head back home.

" Armaan, where are we ? " she repeated the question editing it from 'where are we going..'.

" I told you na, to meet someone special. She's here " she raised a brow at 'she', he did said something about meeting someone but didn't care to elaborate it, not even the gender, until now " she's my best friend.. such a sweetheart.. So cute, funny and mind you she's beauty with brains " he rattled on walking on a kind of by road from helipad to the house, without paying attention to the fact that her smile which was eager and excited a minute ago was now so strained that it was almost lost.. " she's an amazing person... even an inspiration " yeah the one she was inspired to kill even before she'd met her, not liking his ranting a bit about 'her' she chose to be silent, a sign he missed.. " she was the one who chose this place to meet you... Like you she too is fond of calm places.. It's beautiful. I'm sure you'll love it here "
He was even comparing the two ! Ridhhima lost all her patience at that, stopping in her tracks she freed her hand from his and stood there crossly.. A frown slowly, and clearly, making its appearance.. " What happened honey ? Why did you stop ? "

She couldn't believe it, either he was playing naive today or was up for a really sad practical jokes of his. But she didn't wanted to jump to conclusions, maybe she was just a good friend.. drawing in a deep breath she asked " Armaan is there any adjective left in the dictionary you haven't used for her.. And who the hell is she ? Why are you telling me now when we are at her door step ?.. couldn't you have said anything before ? Why do you have to do this all the time huh, did you even care to tell or ask me if I wanted to meet her or not ? " her logic failed before her possessive self.

Moreover, his lopsided smile did nothing to cool her down.. walking by her side he brought his face closer, sniffing all around her " Something's burning.. Badly, hai na ? "

" Ha ha very funny " she wasn't amused and pushed him away when he laughed out.

" Cmmon jaan " but he grabbed her hand pulling her back holding tightly in his arms " you know what you are to me.. then why to worry hmm.." she didn't look at him but he knew she understood perfectly well what he was trying to say " and since you love beaches I thought this is some place you'd love.." this time she did look up and knew he wasn't lying.. A voice told her that she mustn't be rude to his friends, especially to the ones she haven't even met.. that calmed her a little but she preferred not showing it " oh cmmon.. please.. For me.." he pleaded making his patented irresistible cute face..

Result- she melted.

" Who's she ? What's her name ? " she asked resuming the walk, now an arm around him with his on her shoulder, to make it clear to who so ever 'she' is that he is hers.. Only hers.

" Well actually we know each other since we were kids but then went different ways and now after years we've met again so thought it would be wonderful to sit together and catch up " the way he talked Ridhhima could make out that it was someone who meant something to him. And if she's important for him then, rather jumping to conclusions, she would meet her atleast.

The house took her breath away.. The two story structure was beyond words in her dictionary.. " She lives here ??, " Ridhhima asked before she could think anything

" Yupp, but not permanently.. this is sort of get away holiday home.." Armaan explained, he could see appreciation, wonder and little tinge of envy in her eyes.. Like a kid who just saw a better toy in other kids hand..

Holding her hand he led her inside.. The hall was beautifully decorated neither cluttered nor empty something she liked and appreciated, right in front of the comfortable sofas there was a plain glass window.. Nah not window.. It was a wall of glass from ceiling to floor allowing a breath taking serene view of the sea beyond a lush green square patch of grass and sandy beach..

Stealing her eyes from the view she turned to the paintings hung on the wall while Armaan went to check where 'she' was.. Walking around she felt like she had something in common with this unknown person.. Their choices were so much alike that she felt connected already.. She was still lost in her thoughts when Armaan came back..

" Well, butler told me that she will be here later in the afternoon so we have whole house to ourself.. Cmmon lets take a look around the house " he readily agreed, this place had stolen her heart already..

The 6 rooms, the kitchen- which was a mini hall in itself, the hall, the garden around and that seamless pool where it was difficult to make out where it end and where the sea began were work of some genius.. Every corner was exceptionally beautiful in itself with the warmth of home.. They took their sweet time to explore each corner of the house, though she hesitated a little as it was someone else's house and the master was absent from the scene but Armaan felt sure that it was okay and 'she' wouldn't mind.. Ridhhima had stopped trying to make him tell her 'her' name, he simply said she'd introduce herself later that day and Ridhhima can ask her whatever she wanted directly from her.. She sighed, if she'd allowed them to roam freely in the house in her absence then she must be one good trusting friend..

Wiping his hands on the napkin he fell back on the chair satisfied " aah I'm full.. This food's yummy ! "

Ridhhima smiled agreeing. They decided to have lunch on the beach near the house and as per their wish two huge umbrellas were erected with a table for two.. There weren't any crowd of servants, just a cook a butler and two others, home away from home... Putting down her fork she too joined I'm-stuffed club with him..

" Armaan lets go for a walk " she suggested, something he knew she was longing the moment they set their foot here.

" Yes, lets go "

They walked on the beach hand in hand, occasionally Ridhhima would splatter few drops on his face running away to save herself from getting the same or special treatment.. But as they gave in to the peace and contentment of their heart and place Ridhhima leaned over his shoulder walking with a hand around his waist..

" So did you like the food ? " Armaan asked breaking the silence

" Yeah, it was delicious.. I must commend your friend, her choice is excellent in every department " he nodded smiling smugly..

" So toh hai... and did you like the present..? "

Hearing the word 'present' she stopped immediately " Present !? What present ? You got me a present!, where is it ?! " all calm and quiet forgotten she looked behind him checking of he was hiding it..

Armaan chuckled at her question express, pulling her close by her waist he looked into her eager eyes, his oceans of love, his angel glowing in the sunlight.. what he wouldn't do for her... Tucking back hair that veiled her face he said softly " You're walking on it sweetheart " She looked down.. There was nothing but their bare feet, sand and waves washing them... perplexed, she looked back at him.. He was still smiling " look closely " And then, it sank in..

" You mean.. You mean this.. this.. This island..!? " Armaan nodded, his smile widening seeing her stunned expression " Oh My God ! Oh My God !! Armaann this is.. I can't believe it ! Is it true ?! " He laughed nodding " do you remember Antonio giving me a packet, it had the papers of this very place.. You sweetheart, are the proud owner of this little paradise.. Exclusively yours.."

" but.. but.." she sputtered, unable to form something sensible in that wave of surprised excitement

" I wanted to surprise you." he gave the answer anyway, knowing what would be going on in her mind.

" Me ? This is ours ?! God this is.." doubts cleared and gave way to boundless happiness " this is awesome ! You are the greatest husband ever !!.. I love you .. Love you love you soo much.." She flung her arms around him jumping with excitement.. He pulled her up swirling around laughing, this is what made worth everything... But suddenly remembering something she pulled back a little " so does that mean.. That friend you were talking about.. The owner.."

" You forgot, you are my best friend love.. There's noone else.. you are that beautiful one.. My true and only one, my inspirer.." she could feel his warmth of love.. How did she not know this before, the place was set according to her choice. It was she, herself everywhere, her heart warmed up with the thought that he went into so much of details just for her but then chuckled at the thought that he made her feel jealous of herself !... She sobered with the thought that how he outdoes himself every time and no matter how much she loved him it would still not be enough..

Cupping his face she caressed it lovingly but did not get down, instead wrapped her legs around his waist and took him in a soft loving kiss... He smiled in between the kiss " now that we have the whole place to ourself, what do you think of that cliche..hmm "

She chuckled, he was something " I think.. we can add another to the list " and resumed the kiss, pouring all her love...

Adam and Eve were back in paradise.

Edited by mansibharti - 13 years ago