Arhi FF : My Reckless Surrender Note - Page 2

Part 5

Khushi couldn't believe it. She was actually married. And that too to Arnav. She honestly didn't know how to react. Should she be happy she got married to Arnav, the man she was strongly attracted to? Or should she be upset that in a way, Arnav had technically been forced in this marriage.

Khushi glanced at her husband of only a few minutes. His features seemed calm, his body relaxed as he drove to his- no, their castle. Their home. Khushi couldn't help wonder what he was thinking about.

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He was married!

Arnav couldn't believe it. What must she be thinking about him? What if she thought he took advantage of her situation? A bloody opportunist?

It was hard but Arnav kept his features loose and gentle, not wanting her to see his worry. He glanced at her and saw her bite her lip. Those lips...

Arnav forced himself to look straight and focused on driving. The last thing he wanted was for his new wife to think he had only married her for their wedding night.

Their wedding night...

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Arnav gave her a gentle smile "Come in. It's officially our home" Khushi smiled softly and nodded. Arnav fidgeted a bit "If you want you can go to our room"

Our room. Khushi blushed a bit and nodded lightly. She climbed up the stairs and disappeared into their room with Arnav's stare following her.

Arnav felt a change in the atmosphere and turned around "Lavanya?" he frowned.

"I forgot my cellphone" she said picking up her device from the couch. She looked at him weirdly "You seem different"

Arnav mentally swore. The very last thing he wanted was for Lavanya to know he married Khushi. If she found out, Lavanya would go on forever about how finally he heeded her advice and then she would begin spouting her ideas about how Arnav could fall in love with her and blah blah blah. Arnav wanted to take things a bit slow with Khushi even though he knew his time was limited.

"You're bluffing" Arnav said looking away hoping she'd leave him be.

"Oh my god!" Lavanya gasped "You married Khushi!"

"What? Why would I marry her? I have no reason to"

*****************************************

Khushi felt her heart break a little. No reason to marry her? Just what the hell did he think of himself? Anger coursed through Khushi's veins. She'll show him. Show him she didn't need him. With that she stormed into their bedroom.

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"Oh quit lying. You know you're not good at it so why bother" Lavanya grinned " You can finally-"

"Not another word" he said "I'll settle this on my own. Don't you have some patients to attend?"

Lavanya pouted "Fine. Be like that. Good bye!" With that she disappeared.

Arnav sighed, running a hand through his hair. Time to go see his bride.

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The minute Arnav entered his room, he heard a smash. Staring at the wall the lamp had unfortunately met it's demise, he barely escaped from the next flying object. He swore "What the hell Khushi"

"Don't come near me!" she screamed, throwing another vase. She somehow managed to find another one and throw that too.

Where the hell was she getting all these vases from? She already threw 3 at him, all of them being close shots. Damn her aim.

Arnav looked up to see her ready to throw her fourth vase. He also noticed she was about to step on a glass shard. Arnav raced to her with quick speed, blocking her from taking another step. He ducked again when she took aim. Damn, that was a closer shot. He even felt the vase graze against the top of his hair lightly before smashing against the wall, joining the other vase pieces and the lamp.

Just as Khushi was reaching for the alarm clock on the nightstand, Arnav jumped on her.They both fell on the bed with a crash. Arrnav on top, Khushi on the bottom.

Khushi shrieked "How dare you!"

"Listen goddamn it!" Arnav roared.

Khushi immediately turned silent, never having actually been on the receiving end of his anger. "What" she squeaked.

"Look Khushi. Obviously you're angry about something but I don't know what it is. You were fine when we returned to the mansion but now all of a sudden you're a tigress attacking me out of the blue"

"Well how was I supposed to know an unwanted wife wasn't supposed to be angry on her husband" Khushi said through gritted teeth.

Arnav frowned. Unwanted wife? What gave her that notion? "What are you talking about?"

Khushi's bottom lip trembled "I-I heard you downstairs" a tear slipped her eye "Talking to your girlfriend"

Arnav wiped her tear tenderly "Girlfriend?" he repeated with a frown "Who? Lavanya?" Khushi turned her head, refusing to look at him. Arnav sighed. He held her face with his hand "Look at me Khushi" He pushed her head up towards him "She isn't my girlfriend. She's my friend. Only friend. Nothing else"

"Then why did you tell her you had no reason to marry me?" she whispered hurt "Why did you marry me?"

"Because...I-I..." he looked away unable to complete his sentence.

She wiped her tears and pushed him away "I don't want such marriage" Khushi said standing up, facing the bedroom door.

Arnav grabbed her hand "Don't you dare walk out on me" he growled.

Khushi struggled to free her hand "Leave me!"

Arnav twisted her arm behind her back, pulling her against him "This is my house. I get to decide what stays and what leaves. You staying here was my decision. You leaving will also be if I ever decide"

"I am not an object you can just play around with" she cried "I don't want your pity!"

"Pity!" he roared "Do you actually think I do things out of pity?" he twisted her arm harder without realizing it "You don't know me at all. I am a selfish man Khushi. I only do things that make me happy and marrying you is one of those damn things!"

Khushi lifted her lashes at him, her divine innocence shining from within. Arnav groaned and slammed his lips on hers.She whimpered but didn't push him away. He let go of her arm and pulled her closer to get rid of any space between them. Biting her lip, Arnav explored her mouth. It was so sweet. Almost like nectar. She let out a moan.

Arnav let go of her arms and nipped at her neck. So swan-like. Finding her sweet spot he nibbled on it making her clutch on him tighter and sigh. Oh how he just wanted to sink his fangs into her...

That made him immediately take a step back. What was he doing? He had to stop. Arnav took a deep breath and turned around.

Khushi wrapped her arms around him from the back "Don't stop" she murmured.

Arnav held her hands "No" he whispered "Let me stop before I can't"

That made her clutch him harder "No" she whispered back "Stay with me. Make love to me"

Arnav turned around and slammed his lips back on hers.

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He collapsed on top of her, breathing heavily. Khushi snuggled up to him and sighed with content. She smiled at him.

Arnav felt his eyes darken with pleasure. The pleasure of wanting her blood. He stared into her eyes for a full minute before her eyes began fluttering shut "Go to sleep" he cajoled.

Khushi struggled to keep her eyes open but his intoxicating voice managed to persuade her and she did as he said.

The second he was sure she was asleep, Arnav hovered over her, looking no less than a predator.

He needed his dose. Earlier he had been completely occupied with her to even have a sip of his usual supply.

Arnav needed the blood. Her blood. It was like a drug.

Leaning to her neck, he breathed in her scent and without delaying any more time, he sank his fangs into her.

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Khushi woke up to a sweet ache throbbing in her body in specific areas. She sighed in pleasure reaching for Arnav. She frowned when she didn't feel a hard muscular body next to her. In fact why did Arnav feel so furry and soft? Reluctantly she opened her eyes. She gasped.

"Arnav?" Khushi said confused.

What was the cat doing in the bed? In Arnav, her husband's, spot? In fact, where was Arnav?

Khushi sat up straight. When she followed the cat's gaze to her chest, she immediately gathered the cover up to her shoulders. She narrowed her eyes at the cat "What are you doing here? Where's Arnav?"

Arnav meowed. He walked over to her and plopped in her lap.

Khushi frowned "I meant my husband"

Khushi pushed the cat away and got up, covering herself with the duvet. She suddenly gasped when the room began spinning. She clutched her head ready to faint when strong arms caught her "I got you" she heard a familiar masculine voice but her senses were too drowsy to notice.

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Arnav swore. He took too much blood last night. He picked up her unconscious body and laid her on the bed. He turned around and went to the kitchen, quickly organizing breakfast.

Arnav grimaced, a headache pounding in his head. His body ached. His bones throbbed wanting to transform. The pain was unbearable but Arnav knew he had to take care of Khushi. He had to give her her breakfast or else her condition could worsen. Arnav couldn't live with the fact that he would be the reason her health would deteriorate.

Somehow he managed to climb up the stairs and into the bedroom. He shook Khushi awake "Khushi" he gasped "Wake up"

Thankfully she did wake up quickly "Arnav" she smiled.

He pushed the tray of food to her "Eat. I have to go"

Khushi grabbed his hand "Don't go" she pleaded.

"I have to. I'm sorry" he replied feeling short of breath.

With that he quickly left. Khushi was too weak to chase after him so she stayed in the bed.

Arnav, the cat, walked up to her and sat back in her lap. This time Khushi didn't push him away. She sighed "I don't want to sound like a clingy wife" she said to the cat "It's just...I was hoping he'd stay with me for a little while. I mean it's technically our first day as husband and wife. And last night..." she blushed "I was hoping he'd stay with me, maybe cuddle and comfort me...but I guess business is more important"

Khushi smiled at the breakfast tray "But this was sweet of him" she said to the cat "It shows that he cares"

Oh she had no idea...

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Khushiforever's Index

The story line is interesting and you are taking the much needed suspense in the correct direction.

i think you have posted 8 parts already right? can you please post them all once and start with 9th chapter?

and coming to it, i really hope something happens and arnav stops hypnotising khushi. i understand once is fine but if he keeps doing it, then the character sketch of arnav will change 180°. waiting for next update

Hi! Thank you so much for your thoughts and comment! The reason I’m updating one at a time is because I’m adding a few more details on each update and they just seem to take a little while. I plan to update all the already written parts in just a few days so I’ll be able to move forward with the story.

Part 6

"Huh. I just realized I never asked Arnav what he does for a living" Khushi said to the cat.The cat only meowed in response, following her to the kitchen. Khushi turned on the tap "Do you think Arnav will take me for a honeymoon?" Khushi asked the cat who obediently sat at her feet "I've always wanted to go to the city. I've never been out of the village. The thing is though I don't want to force Arnav. I mean I'm still not sure what his thoughts are of me, of us" she sighed, putting the last plate away "Maybe a little gardening will clear my head"

The cat did follow Khushi outside but immediately took shelter in the shade of a tree as fast as he could. He glanced at Khushi for a minute before yawning. He lied down and closed his eyes.

Khushi shook her head "You're so lazy" and then she got to work

The garden was coming along really well. All the dead flowers and weeds were long removed. New flowers were in the process of blooming. Khushi couldn't wait to show Arnav.

Later that afternoon, after two, Khushi was done for the day. The flowers had been well watered, thorns were ridden of, and there were no signs of weeds.

Khushi glanced at the cat. He was still sleeping. She frowned at him "Don't you sleep at night?" she muttered.

Wiping her hands clean, Khushi silently walked up to the cat and picked him up. He didn't wake up. She couldn't help wonder why she felt so attached to the cat. Was it because he understood her every word and was smarter than the average cat? Or was it because he reminded her of Arnav, her husband? It was quite odd. His black fur reminded her of Arnav's dark aura and well...his clothes. That man really liked black.

And the cat's eyes. Dark brown like chocolate. So intense. They resembled Arnav's eyes really well, especially when he looked at her as if he knew something she didn't.

Khushi shook her head. What was she thinking? She was comparing her cat with her husband for god's sake. It couldn't get any crazier than that.

As Khushi was carrying Arnav, the cat, inside, a beam of sunlight touched them. Arnav's eyes snapped open. With an agony filled meow, he launched himself out of Khushi's arms and raced inside the house as if his tail was on fire.

"Arnav?" Khushi called out concerned. She ran after the cat and found him sitting on the sofa in the living room, licking his paw intensively. Khushi approached him and sat next to him "What's wrong?" she asked picking him up and putting him on her lap.

Arnav let out a loud meow lifting up the paw he was licking. Khushi gasped. His paw had gone completely red.It was also badly swollen. The fur even looked singed.

Khushi picked Arnav up and hurried to the bathroom. Good thing her husband and her had gone shopping earlier. His mansion had almost seemed empty when she had first come. Khushi put Arnav's paw under the sink under cold water. He purred in relief. Wiping his paw clean with a towel, Khushi applied cream to his paw.She hoped the swelling would reduce soon.

What she hadn't noticed was the way Arnav had kept his eyes on her all the way through, his eyes expressing an unknown emotion.

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It was 5:59 PM when Arnav glanced at Khushi who was engrossed in the Hindi movie playing on TV. He silently jumped off the sofa and padded out of the living room. A minute later, Arnav, Khushi's husband came in.

He looked at her "Like the movie?"

That caught Khushi's attention "Arnav" she smiled. She looked at the empty space beside her "Huh? Where'd he go?" she muttered.

"Probably out" Arnav replied.

He took the seat beside her and pulled her closer to him "How about you pay attention to me?"

Khushi blushed but then her eyes fell on his red hand. She gasped and grabbed his hand "Arnav! What happened?"

Arnav tried to pull his hand back "It's nothing"

"It doesn't look like nothing" she frowned at him "In fact just this afternoon the cat got burned...by being in the sun for barely a second"

Arnav could practically see the gears moving in Khushi's head. He had to distract her before she even came close to the truth so he said the first thing that came to mind "I'm taking you on a honeymoon Khushi"

Khushi looked at him startled, obviously not expecting that but it did the trick "What?"

He nodded "You wanted to get out of the village right?"

Khushi narrowed her eyes "I had only told the cat that"

"Anybody trapped in their house for years would obviously want to explore the outside world" he said smoothly "You mentioned that uncle of yours keeping you locked inside your house and not letting you out"

Khushi bit her lip. Well that was accurate. Maybe she really was over thinking things. How could a human turn into a cat anyways. But his hand...

Khushi grabbed his hand "Explain this first"

"I have a strong allergy to lilies" he said "One of my employees had put a vase of them on her table and when I passed by my hand immediately reacted"

Arnav put his finger on her lip when she opened her mouth to ask another question "No more questions. Now I want you to go upstairs to our room and start packing. We're leaving tonight in less than 2 hours"

"But-"

"Tic toc Khushi" Arnav said waving his index finger back and forth "If you're not ready in 2 hours our honeymoon is cancelled. Permanently"

Khushi opened and closed her mouth like a fish before rushing to her room. Arnav let out a breath of relief and looked at his hand wondering how much longer would he be able to hide things from her.

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Khushi was ready in an hour and half. She gave her bags to Arnav who put them in the SUV. Of course even the vehicle was black. Heck, she was the only one with colors here.

When Khushi sat next to Arnav in the passenger seat she couldn't help but ask "Do you dislike colors?"

Arnav looked at her confused "I beg your pardon?"

"It's just you're always wearing black. Even the items you own are black. This car is black" she said exasperated.

He chuckled "I'm not that into colors" He started the ignition and stepped on the pedal.

Khushi let the topic go and looked out the window "Where are we going?"

"To the city"

Khushi stiffened "The city?" That's exactly what she had told the cat. Wait the cat!

"Arnav! Stop the car!" she shrieked.

Arnav slammed on the brakes "What the hell Khushi"

"We forgot the cat" she said opening the door.

"Get back in Khushi. If you haven't noticed then let me tell you that the cat disappears at night and appears in the day"

Khushi pouted "But he'll get lonely"

"Fine" he said "I'll bring him back before I leave for work"

Khushi frowned "You're still going to be working while we're on our honeymoon"

"Business is business" he replied "But the night is ours" he gave her a wink.

Khushi looked away, a small smile touching her lips "How long are we staying there?"

"For as long as you want" his hands suddenly gripped the steering wheel tightly. A harsh gasp broke out from him.

"Arnav?" she looked at him concerned "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine" he said and stopped the car.He looked at her "You look sleepy"

She frowned "What? I'm not sleepy"

"You are sleepy" he urged with a hardened edge to his voice.

A yawn broke out of her before her eyes felt droopy. She struggled to keep them open. That's weird. She had been completely awake a minute ago. Khushi managed to keep her open for a fraction of a second to look at Arnav. A sorry look on his face confused her even more. She mumbled his name before falling asleep but not before she felt him pushing her hair away from her neck.

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It was early morning when Khushi woke up. Really early morning. 1 AM in fact.

She pushed herself up from the really soft bed and looked at her surroundings. The room was really beautiful. The walls were a clean shade of white. The floor was made up of black tiles.There was a matching black dresser and closet too. The room looked expensive.

Khushi got up from the bed and went out the bedroom door. The place was really big. It was a cottage. A very well managed cottage,

She tip toed around wondering where Arnav was.

She gasped when an arm snaked around her waist "Looking for me?"

Khushi turned around to be caged between his arms. She smiled "Where are we?"

Arnav gestured around "One of my cottages"

"One of them?"

He nodded "Comes with being rich" he chuckled.

Speaking of which "What do you do Arnav?" Khushi asked curiously.

"I run a company" he replied "It has branches throughout the world" Khushi opened her mouth but Arnav hushed her by placing his index finger on her lips "Don't you get tired of asking so many questions? One day they'll get you in trouble" Or more likely him.

Khushi looked outside the window "It's still really early" she said.

"Perfect for us" he whispered against her hair, bending down to nuzzle against her neck "Let's make something of this morning before it goes to waste"

Khushi let a small squeal when Arnav picked her up and took her to the bedroom.

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It was 10 AM when Khushi woke up. She closed her eyes and stretched her arms above her head, letting the duvet fall to her lap. She moaned lightly at the sore spots Arnav had left behind. Only when she opened her eyes did she notice Arnav. That cat. Who had been staring at her this whole time.

Khushi widened her eyes and almost screamed, pulling the covers to her chest "Can't you meow or something so I know there's someone there before I go naked"

Arnav meowed but didn't stop staring at her. Khushi picked up the duvet with her as she got up. She bent and picked up her clothes that were thrown on the floor. Arnav helped by picking up her bra in his mouth and practically saying : if you want it take it from my mouth.

She scowled at him and grabbed the piece of clothing from him. She furiously marched to the attached bathroom muttering about how maybe asking Arnav to bring the cat along had been a mistake.

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After showering and putting on fresh clothes, Khushi took a tour of the house all by herself. It was really big so she couldn't help wonder if Arnav kept a maid to keep the cottage in order.

After a quick exploration Khushi went to the kitchen and looked around for food. Thankfully there was lots. She grabbed bread and spread. Then it was she noticed a red-like liquid in bottles "It's probably just wine" she muttered.

Khushi didn't drink so she wouldn't be touching them but it seemed Arnav drank. A lot. Khushi bit her lip. Arnav didn't seem like a drunkard...but he did sometimes seem disturbed or stressed.

Khushi sighed sitting down at a table. She'd ask him when he got back. Oh why was he so mysterious, she wondered while spreading the spread on her bread. Khushi had so many questions but Arnav only answered a few of them. She wondered how their married life would be.

Arnav, the cat, jumped up on the table. Khushi put milk in a bowl and put it in front of him.He only glanced at the bowl before pushing it away with his paw.

Khushi frowned "You don't like it?" she put the milk away "That's weird. I thought cats liked milk" Arnav meowed. Khushi waved a hand "I'm looking I'm looking" she said searching through the fridge "Hmm what would you like" she said to herself. Khushi looked at Arnav and found him munching on her bread "Haw! Arnav!" she pouted "You could have pointed to the bread. Now I have to make more for myself"

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It was 6 PM when Arnav, her husband, walked in.

He smiled at her and sat down next to her on the couch.

Khushi smiled back "You must be hungry. Let me get you something"

Just as Khushi stood up Arnav pulled her back down "It's alright. I had a big lunch at work. I'm not hungry"

"Fine" she said "But let me get you something to drink at least"

Arnav reluctantly let her go. Five minutes later she came back with a glass of milk.

He frowned at her "Milk?"

She grinned "Milk is good for you. Bones and stuff"

"I'm strong enough. I prove it every night. I don't need that"

"But Arnav-"

"Sorry Khushi" he said firmly "But I just hate milk"

And that's when Khushi truly began suspecting the connection between her husband and her cat.

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Khushiforever's Index

Why is Arnav reluctant to break the curse? Does it involve someone getting hurt?

Part 7

There was the only one way to confirm her suspicions. Khushi would keep the cat with her until or unless Arnav showed up. If he didn't show up then Khushi would know.

She knew something was wrong. She also knew it was really stupid to think there was this weird connection between Arnav and the cat.

After all...

Not everything shown from the outside was the same on the inside.

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Khushi was getting suspicious. Arnav didn't need to read her mind to figure it out. It was written all over her face.

He had to distract her.

Arnav stood up and took the glass of milk from her "But since you have brought it, especially for me, how can I possibly refuse you"

Khushi gave him a hesitant smile and watched as he drank it in quick large gulps. He gave the glass back to her. She went back to the kitchen.

The second she disappeared, Arnav slammed his hand over his mouth and ran to the nearest window to throw up. He swore, trying to get rid of the foul taste in his mouth. How long had it been since he actually had normal human food? A hundred years? A thousand? Probably more. But damn. Had it always tasted this horrible? Had he really been that oblivious?

"Arnav?" came Khushi's voice "Are you alright?"

Arnav took a deep breath and put on a calm expression on his face. He turned towards her and gave her a small smile "Of course. Just taking in some fresh air"

Khushi smiled and stood next to him, looking outside where the sun had already set "Arnav? Do you always have to work so late? It sometimes gets really lonely without you"

He put an arm around her and pulled her closer "I'm sorry Khushi. Truly I am but there's nothing I can do about it. I own the company. I am just too busy. Business slows down in the winter so I'll be able to stay home more often during then. I come home as soon as I can" he tipped her chin towards him "After all now I have a beautiful wife to get to"

He didn't get a desired reaction such as her blushing. She thought for a minute and smiled "How about you give me the address of your company? I can bring you lunch and we can eat together. That way we can spend more time together"

Arnav tried hard not to show his worry "I'm usually busy Khushi. I'm often stuck in meetings. Business is demanding"

"Oh" Khushi said, looking crestfallen.

"Hey" he said cupping her cheek with his right hand "We always have the night. No matter how busy I am, the night will always be ours"

Khushi smiled, a small blush adorning her cheeks. She looked out the window and then back at him "Arnav? Are we going somewhere tonight?"

He bent down and nuzzled against her neck "Oh? I was rather hoping we'd stay inside, preferably in the bedroom"

"Arnav!" Khushi blushed bright red and swatted his hand away from her shoulder "I want to go outside. We're in the city!" she said excited.

He sighed "Alright. Hmm what about a casino?"

"I've never been there before" she told him.

Arnav chuckled "Come on. It'll be fun"

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"Wow" Khushi breathed as she took in the grand casino. It was beautiful.

Small and large chandeliers adorned the ceiling. White and black tiles zig-zagged on the floor. Creative and carefully picked art work hung on the walls. Everything looked grand. It was also very packed.

Various machines were set up on the sides. There were people playing cards and winning money. A large pool table was placed in the corner where people were already playing and hooting.

Khushi tugged Arnav's sleeve "What do we do here?"

Arnav chuckled "We play of course. Come" he led her to the side machines and made her sit on the stool "These are called slot machines" he pulled out a quarter "To play we put a coin into the machine" he gestured to the handle "And then you pull this. This machine is based on luck. If you have lots of it you win big money but if you don't have a lot of luck then you should know when to give up" He gave her the coin "You play"

Khushi slipped the coin into the machine and pulled the handle. The discs quickly began moving like a blur. She waited until it slowed down before it said Jackpot.

A series of coins began falling out.

Khushi frowned and looked at Arnav "I think it's broken"

Arnav laughed "No my darling. You have just won jackpot which means all these coins are yours to keep"

"Oh" Khushi said before grinning "Yay! I won!"

She won the next game and the game after that and so on.

Arnav couldn't help smile when he saw her get so excited and happy. She looked so beautiful. So innocent. Why did he want to keep her in the house and lock her in there so she never saw any horrors of the real world?

Why was he so worried that once she were to find out the truth about him, she'd disappear from his life forever?

An uneasy feeling crawled up Arnav's skin. Someone was watching him. He looked around scanning through the crowd and that's when he saw Rohit. Anger filled Arnav's veins. How dare he follow them here? What the hell was he up to now?

He glanced at Khushi who was busy slipping in another coin into the machine "I'll be right back. Stay here" he told her.

Before she could ask anything he disappeared.

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Out of nowhere Arnav grabbed Rohit's shoulder and pushed him to the nearest wall "What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded.

Rohit chuckled unfazed "Last time I checked it was still a free country"

"You damn well know what I mean" Arnav growled "Why are you following me?"

"Who said anything about following you? I'm following your wife"

"You bas***d!" Arnav grabbed his neck tightly.

"Me?" he laughed "At least I'm not the one keeping a woman in the dark and feeding off her"

That hit a weak spot. Had it been that obvious? "What do you want?" Arnav said firmly letting go of him.

Rohit pushed his collar down neatly "Oh many things but your wife seems to be on the top of the list" he smirked.

"I'll kill you" Arnav said dangerously, taking a step towards him.

"Whatever" Rohit rolled his eyes "But you know what? Your wife is actually second on my list. What I really want is to ruin you" his smirk grew "I saw the way you looked at her. She's special to you. So special that you didn't even touch another human or fed off them" he tilted his head "But I do admire your gall. Bringing her to an all you can eat buffet at the vampire's club huh? You might as well have been flinging a steak back and forth in front of a dog"

Arnav took a step closer "She's under my protection and you know very well what will happen if anybody harms what's mine"

"What you really mean is that you're addicted to her now. Her blood is like a drug and you're having difficulty letting go"

Arnav turned around trying to conceal the guilty look on his face "Whatever it is is my personal business. You have no right to comment"

Rohit shrugged "Alright but I will see you later"

With that he walked out of the casino.

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When Arnav came back to Khushi, she was beyond happy. She showed him the numerous coins "Look Arnav! I won all these" she said excitedly "I didn't lose even once"

Arnav gave a half hearted smile "That's great but it's getting late now Khushi. Time to go"

She pouted but didn't object.

Arnav drove them home. Khushi ran up to their room to get ready for bed. Arnav, on the other hand couldn't stop thinking over Rohit's words.

What you really mean is that you're addicted to her now. Her blood is like a drug and you're having difficulty letting go

Arnav knew Rohit was right. He was getting addicted to Khushi's blood. In fact he hadn't fed from another for many weeks. Ever since she had arrived.

"Arnav" he heard Khushi call out for him "Come up"

He didn't reply but did as she requested.

When he reached their bedroom,there she was. In a vision of crimson red.

Arnav swallowed. This did not help his appetite in any way. In fact it just made it worse. She looked so luring with the crimson night gown ending slightly below her knees. And the fact that it was his favorite color and the color of his drink...

She, shyly, looked at him and raised her arms. As if in a trance Arnav welcomed himself in her embrace and took her to bed.

After hours of passionate love making, when Arnav was sure Khushi had fallen asleep he tried to control himself. He really did but it was as if his eyes were stuck to her bare neck.

What you really mean is that you're addicted to her now. Her blood is like a drug and you're having difficulty letting go

Rohit's words rang in Arnav's head but that didn't help. He groaned and swooped down to her neck. He softly kissed it "I'm sorry" he whispered "I'm so sorry" before baring out his fangs and sinking them in her soft skin.

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When Khushi woke up the next morning, the first thing she did was look for Arnav. The cat of course. It had become like a routine now. Arnav, the cat, in the morning and Arnav, her husband, at night.

However instead of finding the cat next to her on the pillow like usual, Khushi found him sleeping on her feet.

She smiled "Good morning Arnav" she said.

The cat didn't respond and continued to sleep. Khushi sat up and picked up the cat. He opened his eyes and looked at her sleepily. He meowed at her before struggling to get back on his feet. Khushi chuckled "Been out long last night huh?"

The cat jumped out from her hands and trotted out of the room. Khushi frowned "Attitude so early in the morning? Usually it's just in the garden" she mumbled before getting up and getting ready.

When Khushi had finished her shower, and went down to the kitchen, Arnav was already there. She gave him a quick pat on the head before toasting some bread. Arnav jumped up on the table and sat down, his tail swishing back and forth. Khushi slashed some jam on the bread and placed it in front of him, settling for cereal for herself.

Arnav meowed rather loudly. Khushi couldn't help wonder why his meow felt so...bland.Toneless. She looked at the cat confused. Arnav walked to where she was sitting and took a drink of her cereal milk.

Khushi frowned "I thought you didn't like milk"

The cat continued to drink her milk as if she hadn't spoken. When Khushi raised her hand to pet him like she usually did, he looked at her hand cautiously and leaned back. She frowned. Arnav never did that before. He liked her touch and often even walked around her in circles until she finally petted him.

"What's wrong Arnav?" she asked concerned.

Arnav only looked at her but didn't respond like he usually did. Khushi raised her hand again to touch him but it seemed as if he had enough. He jumped off the table and scurried off.

Maybe he was in a bad mood...

Khushi tried not to let Arnav's ignorance hurt her but really it did. She had grown so attached to him and she thought perhaps he felt just as attached. She sighed. Maybe he'll come around.

When it was 6: 15 PM Khushi had kept a strong grip on the cat despite it's struggles and loud meows. She really didn't want to hurt him but she had to know. Were her suspicions correct? Or was she imagining it?

That's when she heard the door open. Khushi jumped to her feet,loosening her hands letting the cat escape. Arnav walked in. He smiled at her. Khushi looked at him and then at the cat who had went to sit next to his feet, quietly licking his paw and glaring at her.

A huge smile spread on Khushi's face. She ran and jumped in Arnav's arms. He caught her easily. She heard him chuckle "Missed me?"

She grinned "Only a lot" she clutched him tighter.

Maybe she really was being stupid. It was pure coincidence that Arnav, the cat left whenever Arnav, her husband appeared. Maybe it was a protective sort of thing. The cat protects her during the day, and her husband protects her during the night. Oh how that sounded so perfect. So sweet and so adorable.

"So" he whispered in her ear "Shall I consider that you want to stay in the cottage all night since you're refusing to separate from me?"

Khushi blushed and let go of him.She looked up at him expectantly "You have plans for us?"

"Well since it is night most places are closed but that doesn't mean I can't show you where they are" he said "You can go during the day"

And so the couple went out where Arnav showed her places such as the library, community centres, parks, etc.

******************************************

A few days later, the couple returned to the castle.

The next morning, Khushi got up excitedly and got ready quickly. She really wanted to go visit that library Arnav had shown her in the village. She had always loved reading her fiction fantasy romance novels. Those had always transported her to a new world making her believe she was the heroine and there was her hero.

But now...

Khushi smiled biting her lip. Now she can imagine Arnav as her hero and lead a whole new story with him.

Khushi raced down to the library and made a new library card for herself. She wondered if she should get a card made for Arnav too. He didn't seem like the reading type but then again when she had first met him he didn't seem like the romance type either and now.. So she got a card made for him too.

The library seemed more bigger on the inside than it was on the outside. That just made it a whole lot better.There were countless books and Khushi couldn't wait to begin browsing.

She went to the fantasy and romance section and immediately found some amazing books. One book fell to her feet when she turned around. She picked it up "Immortal Betrayal" she read out loud. She turned to the back where the story was written. "Maya is an innocent village girl who loves each and every aspect of life. She believes everything happens for a reason and always embraces it" Ironically that was just a close description of Khushi herself "However when she enters an unknown castle, little does she know that she has entered the lair of an unfathomable beast who will do anything to satisfy his desires and his thirst-"

"Sounds a lot like a dear friend of mine"

Khushi turned around and frowned when she saw a man who looked strangely familiar "Do I know you?" she asked.

He chuckled "I guess it's reasonable you'd forget me. I'm Rohit, the guy from the bar"

Memory hit her and she recognized him. She narrowed her eyes at him "What are you doing here?" she asked with a deeper frown.

"Oh just here and there but I thought to give you a visit" he replied.

"Me?" she squeaked confused.

He laughed and took the book from her "Oddly enough this book does resemble your life pretty well" he looked at it as if interested "You are Maya and Arnav is the unfathomable beast"

"Watch your tongue" Khushi said sharply pointing her finger at him.

Rohit waved it away "You shouldn't have so much confidence over him. He isn't worth it" he returned the book back to her "Why don't you check out what your husband truly is tonight" he suggested "Arnav will be at a bar just on the outskirts of the town, the perfect place for him to...hunt"

Khushi threw the book at him "Just shut up. You can't turn me against my husband no matter what you say" she said before turning on her heel and leaving.

Rohit frowned at her retreating back. Damn. That Arnav really did have that chit completely relied on him.Rohit would say Arnav had her tied around his finger but it was kind of like the opposite.

A scowl touched Rohit's face "I'll turn you against him" he promised "I'll have you lean against me and break that Arnav's ego even if it's the last thing I do"

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Khushiforever's Index

what does Rohit have against Arnav? Did something happen in the past?

Part 8

Khushi chopped at the potatoes angrily. How dare he? Who did Rohit think he was? He didn't know anything about Arnav! How dare he make assumptions about Arnav's personality? Comparing him to a beast?

Khushi threw the potato cubes into the steaming, boiling small pot of water. She glared at the pot as if Rohit's face was plastered on it. She sighed. It wasn't the new pot's fault. Speaking of new, Arnav had recently filled up the kitchen with new kitchenware and lots of grocery. Apparently before their marriage, Arnav used to be a take-out kind of person which is why his kitchen was completely bare except for the red wine bottles and a few wine glasses.

Khushi frowned at that. She would have to talk to him about his drinking problem. Then again, he never seemed drunk. He was as sober as he was when he wasn't drinking. He must have really good alcohol tolerance, Khushi thought to herself.

Just as Khushi was preparing the dressing, she heard the front door being unlocked. She grinned. Arnav was home. She quickly turned off the gas.

Khushi wiped her hands and hurried to the entrance doors. The second Arnav opened the doors, Khushi wrapped her arms around him.

She heard his chest rumble with laughter. He wrapped his arms around her waist "This is a nice welcoming. I could get used to it"

Khushi smiled at that. Deciding to put the whole Rohit event behind her, she grabbed his hand and led him to the dining room "I made potato salad. I hope you like it"

**********************************

Arnav swallowed. Why was his wife so hellbent on making him food? "Khushi" he tugged her back "I had a dinner meeting with a client. I've already eaten" he lied.

Khushi's face fell "Oh.." she focused her eyes on the ground.

Arnav inwardly sighed. He should have known that would upset her. Unable to see her disappointment, he held her shoulders and made her turn to face him. Pressing two finger under her chin, he pushed her chin up.

"Hey" he murmured "I was just telling you about my day. I had dinner quite early. I have room for a little more food"

Her face lit up instantly "That's great" she chirped "I have made potato salad. I'll give you a small serving"

Just as she turned to run off to the kitchen, she let out a yelp tripping over the cat. Arnav grabbed her before she fell on her face.

"Are you okay Khushi?" Arnav asked, glaring at the black cat who was now hissing at them.

Khushi nodded. She frowned at the cat "He's been acting weird all day, including yesterday"

Arnav kept his expression neutral "What do you mean?"

"Since yesterday he's been acting distant. He doesn't seem to like being around me anymore. He doesn't like the food I give him either"

Arnav rubbed her back soothingly "I'm sure it's just a cat thing. Besides cats are rarely affectionate"

Khushi sighed "It's just I got attached to him and had thought he did too" she gave him a fake smile "Anyways, I'll go get you some food"

The minute Khushi had completely disappeared into the kitchen, Arnav growled at the cat causing it to hiss back. Arnav grabbed the cat by the scruff and lifted it to eye level, ignoring it's attempts to break free and claw at him.

"Obviously you're not gonna be a good pet" Arnav whispered harshly "So what's the point of keeping you"

He threw the cat carelessly out of the window just as Khushi came out of the kitchen carrying two small bowls. She smiled at him and gave him a bowl. He smiled at her as he tried hard not to hurl his insides out at the smell of the food.

Arnav tried. He really did. He tried to force a spoon of the salad down his throat but he knew the consequences. He helplessly looked over at Khushi as she talked about her day while filling her mouth, thankfully not realizing that he wasn't eating. Arnav had to find a distraction. He had to figure out something.

"I wonder where the cat went" Khushi's voice broke out through his thoughts.

The cat!

Arnav grabbed at the opportunity "I think I saw him jump out the window into the garden" he said getting up with the bowl in one hand "Let me check"

He took large quick steps to the window showing the garden Khushi was working on. Without a second thought, Arnav threw the contents of the bowl out of the window, not really caring where it landed.

He took his time returning to the dining room where Khushi had finished her food. He smiled "He's not in the garden anymore. He'll probably return in the morning"

Khushi nodded "I do wonder where he does go at night"

Arnav chuckled "Guess that will remain a mystery"

Khushi smiled "Oh! I went to the library today. I got you and me library cards" she bit her lip "I wasn't sure if you had one..."

He chuckled "I don't. Thank you though"

She grinned "I took out some movies we could watch"

After fulfilling her wish of watching whatever movie she wanted, he picked her up to take her to bed. He changed her clothes and tucked her in.

Arnav hesitated when his gaze fell on her neck. Unconsciously he took a step forward but he immediately rectified his mistake by taking two steps back.

No, Arnav thought to himself. I will prove him wrong. I am not addicted to her blood. I don't need her to survive.

Using his gifted speed, he reached the nearest bar located just on the outskirts of the town he resided in. He walked up the bar. Not bothering to sit, he ordered a red wine. The second his drink was delivered, a manicured hand rested on his shoulder.

Arnav turned around to meet an unknown woman but then again it wasn't strange for strangers to meet in a bar. The woman had caked her face with make up and wore many ornaments. Her black skirt was so short that she only needed to bend a little to reveal what she was wearing inside. Her top was practically designed to push her almost non-existent breasts together to form a cleavage.

She grinned at him "I'm Mary" she said trying to act seductive.

Arnav took a sip of his glass "And?"

She had the guts to slide her hand across his chest up to where his top button resided. She bit her lip "I was hoping to get to know you"

Just as Arnav was about to tell her to back off and flash his not yet existent marriage ring at her, something clicked in his mind. This was it. He could finally prove that he didn't really need to rely on Khushi.

He looked at the woman "Follow me. I know a place"

Mona or was it Maria? Either way, the woman eagerly followed him out of the bar into a secluded dead end alley.

Arnav turned to face her. His eyes flashed red "Stand against the wall" he growled.

As if hypnotized, she did as told. Arnav began to lean towards her neck, his fangs slipping out. However, he couldn't do it. It seemed too...intimate. Cursing his conscious if he even had one, he settled for her arm. Grabbing it, he sank his fangs in and spit it out immediately. The woman was a bloody drugstore! Arnav was almost tempted to push his finger down his throat to get rid of the foul taste. He glared at her dazed state.

"You will forget" he commanded "You will go home and sleep. The next day you will find a therapist to cure you of your drug problem"

She repeated what he said and left.

Arnav ran his hand through his hair. He was hungry.

Correction : he was starving.

Maybe he should just...

No! Arnav shook his head hard. He had to prove that he didn't need her blood. He wasn't addicted.

And yet only a minute later, he stood towering over her unaware sleeping body. His eyes flashed red as he stared hard at the tiny puncture marks on her neck that she thankfully hadn't noticed. Arnav leaned down and closed his eyes.

I am, he finally admitted letting his fangs slip into her neck. I am addicted to you.

**********************************

Khushi fluttered open her eyes, surprisingly still tired. She looked over to the other side of the bed only to find it empty. As expected. Yet it still gave a pang of disappointment.

Khushi sat up and stretched. She heard a loud meow and looked over to the cat that lay at her feet.

She smiled at him "Hey Arnav" she didn't bother pet him, not wanting to feel rejected again.

She swung her feet to the floor and stood. She immediately regretted it, falling back into bed. Khushi groaned. Why was she so tired? She had slept for more than eight hours.

Arnav meowed and tried to climb into her lap. Khushi couldn't help but chuckle. She scratched the back of his ear which he seemed to enjoy.

"You are one moody cat" Khushi giggled "You have worse mood swings than a pregnant woman"

Speaking of pregnant, Khushi wondered if Arnav wanted kids. If yes, how many? It would devastate her if he didn't want any.

Khushi stood up and made her way to a full length mirror attached to the front of the closet. She raised her shirt a bit and rubbed her flat stomach. Through the mirror she saw Arnav sitting on the floor, his head tilted as he watched her actions.

Khushi giggled "I know it's early in the marriage but I still wonder" she told the cat through the mirror "I mean we have been...doing it a lot and...that leads to a child right?"

Arnav immediately stood at attention, his ears pointing up. Then he walked over to her and stood on his hind legs. His front legs went up, almost in the way a child would ask to be picked up.

Khushi laughed and picked him up. She smiled at him fondly "What if I am?" she whispered "Do you think he would be happy?"

Arnav meowed loudly and rubbed his paw against his mouth. A gesture Khushi had learnt meant hunger. She sighed "Fine. Let's make your belly satisfied first"

Khushi carried him down to the kitchen where he jumped out of her arms on to the counter. She grabbed a bowl and poured milk into it. She put it in front of him and continued making her breakfast.

When she sat down on the dining room table she realized he wasn't drinking the milk. She highly doubted if he even licked it once.

Khushi rolled her eyes at him "Of course. I get what you're trying to do. You're trying to teach me your behavior and rules" Giving him a deep frown she switched his milk with her bread "Happy?" she asked.

The cat answered with a satisfied meow and began munching. Khushi poured cereal into her newly acquired bowl of milk. Once they were finished, Khushi set the dishes into the sink.

"Okay" Khushi clasped her hands "Let's go do some gardening"

If Khushi had given more notice to the cat she would have realized his eyes had widened and had seemed terrified.

**********************************

Khushi patted the soil on top of the seed. That would do it. Hopefully in a little while, something would grow.

Khushi peeled off her gloves and looked for Arnav. That cat had gone into a frenzy when they had entered the garden. Not only did he avoid any ray of sunshine but he actually also seemed to be doing some sort of work of his own.

Khushi almost chuckled. She grabbed the weeds and headed to the garbage bin. Surprisingly that's where she found Arnav. He was sitting on the lid.

"Get off" Khushi said trying to pick him up but he refused. He remained glued to the lid.

Khushi frowned. Suddenly the wind blew causing the tree above that was giving shade to Arnav to sway to the other side. Arnav let out a yelp before running away.

Khushi chuckled. That cat had serious sun problems. She lifted the bin to put the weeds in only to find...her potato salad? Well it looked about the portion of a bowl.

Khushi gasped as realization struck her. Arnav, her husband, had thrown away her food. A pang of hurt settled in. Had her food been that bad that he had to lie and throw it away in discretion. Tears pooled in her eyes but she refused to let them go.

"Now now, thrown away food is the least of your worries"

Khushi swirled around, startled by the newcomer "You!" she gasped in recognition.

He grinned at her "Yes. Me" he mocked.

"What do you want from me?" Khushi demanded. She looked around. Where was Arnav, the cat? Khushi glanced at the clock "How did you get in? My husband is going to be home any minute. If he sees you, he's not going to be happy at all"

"Do you even know what your husband does behind your back?" Rohit asked with a tilt of his head.

"What are you talking about?"

Rohit grinned "Don't you find it weird that he hasn't told you about his business? What he does for a living? Where it's located?"

Khushi glared at him "You're trying to make me distrust my husband" she accused.

He laughed "Not me. These photos are"

With that said, he threw the photos at her feet. One caught her attention. She bent down and picked it up. It was a photo of Arnav...with another woman. The woman was wearing very short clothes. Her heart beating fast, Khushi looked at Arnav. It seemed as if he was leaning in for a kiss...

"No" Khushi whispered, a tear slipping out of her eye.

Rohit smirked, knowing he had finally hit the bulls eye "Now Khushi. Tell me if your husband is truly a man to be trusted"

Khushi looked at him, a sob trying to rise up "Please tell me they're fake"

He, however, took no mercy on her "Get them checked for all I care. I only wanted to show you the truth about your husband. The rest is your choice"

With that said, he turned around and left the house.

Khushi collapsed to her knees and blindly grabbed another photo. That one was of her husband holding the other woman's arm. His head was bent over her arm making it seem as if he was placing a kiss on it.

Not wanting to believe it she grabbed another photo only to find that her husband seemed to be getting intimate with the woman. It looked like he was placing a kiss on her neck.

Khushi burst into tears. The man she had married had been a facade all this time. She should have known he was too perfect. Nobody was that perfect and yet she had believed in him all the way through.

Khushi didn't know what to do. Should she confront her husband? Should she-

She heard the front door opening.

"Khushi" she heard Arnav call her name.

Khushi closed her eyes and knew she had to face him.

**********************************

When Arnav saw his wife slowly walking towards him, he knew something was wrong. She didn't look as happy as she normally would be to see him. Neither was she running towards him like usual. She had an upset look on her face. Her eyes weren't looking at him. They seemed more interested in looking at the tiled floor. Did he see traces of tears on her cheeks?

"Khushi" he reached her in just a few large paces. He cupped her cheeks with both of his hands "What's wrong?"

Khushi leaned away causing him to frown. She hesitantly looked up at him "Where were you last night?"

His frown deepened "I was with you Khushi. Don't you remember eating the salad you had made and watching that movie you borrowed from the library?"

She pressed her lips together "I mean where were you when I had fallen asleep"

His eyebrows furrowed "I was with you"

She showed him the back of what seemed like a photo. There was a date and time on it. The photo had been taken yesterday at 11:42 pm.

Arnav sucked in a breath. That was around the time he had gone to feed. His heartbeat sped up as she slowly flipped the photo around. It was of him and the woman from the previous night. It was taken at the time when he was leaving towards her neck. However it was taken at the angle that an outsider would think he was leaning in for a kiss.

He gritted his teeth "Who gave you this?"

Khushi ignored his question "Were you with her last night?"

"Khushi I asked yo-"

"No!" she almost screamed, completely surprising Arnav enough to make him take a step back "Tell me" she demanded "Were you or were you not with her last night?"

Arnav pressed two fingers to his temple "Khushi it's not that simple. I-"

"It's a yes or no question Arnav" Khushi interrupted him again "Were you or were you not with her last night? Is this photo real?"

"Khush-"

"Answer me Arnav!" Khushi yelled, a tear slipping from her eye.

Arnav pressed his lips together. He let out an exasperated sigh "Yes" he finally admitted. "I was with her last night. The photo is real but it's not what it seems"

The photo slipped from Khushi's grasp and landed near her husband's shoe.

More tears slipped from her eyes. "This photo speaks for itself Arnav. I never thought you would do this to me. I thought you were perfect. I thought you were the one but you're nothing more than an unfaithful-"

Arnav grabbed her shoulders, pulling her closer to him "God damn it Khushi. I never cheated on you. It's not what you think"

She pushed him away "I don't want to hear anything you have to say!" she cried "I never want to see you again"

Arnav's breath hitched "What do you mean?"

Khushi stared at him for a long second before replying "I am leaving"

Just as she turned to head to their bedroom, Arnav grabbed her "Bloody hell Khushi. Just hear me out"

She shook him off "Fine! Tell me then. Why were you with her last night when you should have been with me? Surely not even a late business meeting needs to be conducted in such an intimate manner so don't even try to tell me it was business"

Arnav clenched his jaw but didn't reply. Only the ticking of the grandfather clock could be heard through the thick fog of silence. Khushi stared at him, hurt evident in her eyes as she waited for his response. He, however, looked as if he was in a dilemma.

After an agonizing wait which bore no fruit, Khushi shook her head "I'm leaving" she whispered.

She turned around to leave but stopped when he finally spoke "No, you're not"

Khushi turned around to glare at him but almost took a step back when she noticed his red rimmed eyes "A-Arnav?" she looked at him, suddenly feeling confused.

"You're not leaving" he growled "Go to our bedroom and sit down. Wait for me"

Entranced, Khushi turned around and did as told. Arnav closed his eyes, suddenly wishing he hadn't done that. It had only been about a month to their marriage and he was already finding it difficult to keep his secret. Arnav did want to tell her but at the same time he didn't. What if she didn't want to be with him anymore? What if she ran away when he let his guards down and told the whole village the monster that he was? What if she never let herself fall in lo-

Arnav sighed. He was attracted to her. Not in love with her. In fact he didn't even know what love was. There was only strong attraction.

And addiction. Addiction to her blood. Hers was the purest he had ever had. No drugs, no smoke. No alcohol. Nothing to violate it.

Arnav groaned. Simply thinking about her sweet flavor made him crave her but he knew things weren't so simple anymore.

He glared at the photo near his shoe. That photo could have ruined everything. Then again it was still succeeding. Thankfully Khushi hadn't fully examined the photo. If she had looked closely she would have seen his fangs. Somebody had been spying on him. Somebody wanted to destroy him.

Using his vampire speed, Arnav reached their room in a split second. Khushi had followed his orders and was sitting on the bed, her face completely blank.

Arnav walked up to her and tilted her chin to face him. When she looked into his red rimmed eyes, he spoke "You will forget anything related to the events that occurred tonight. When you recall this night, you will only remember me coming home and taking you out to have a nice restaurant meal. Afterwards, we went home and you felt tired so we went to bed"

"Tonight when you came home, you took me to have a nice restaurant meal. Afterwards I felt tired so we went to bed" Khushi repeated.

"Good girl" Arnav said "Now sleep"

And Khushi did just that...

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Khushiforever's Index

Cool, he has the power to erase memory. But he can't keep doing that. He has to figure out what Rohit is up to.

At last chapter 8 came .. Story is awesome, hopefully you will complete this story ..