||Abhiya Fic- The Demon's Kiss|| Completed page 40 - Page 25

(Still in flashback...)

(Piyali's POV)

He didn't come back after that night...my marriage was tomorrow. I waited each night for him, sitting by the window. But nothing. I forced myself to go to bed each night, crying till my eyes were red and swollen.

(The next day...)

The palace was glowing with happiness and excitement over the preparations for the wedding. My parents looked so happy. A smile formed on my lips after a long time seeing them smile. Maids came to my room and helped me get ready for the big day. Prince Danish was soon to arrive with his family. I sat on the chair like a statue, staring blankly into the clear mirror. Time went by quickly, as I found myself dressed completely like a bride. But only a smile was missing. Mother came to see me. She had a new glow on her face after seeing me in my bridal attire. She cupped my face with her hands and kissed my forehead.

"My daughter looks lovely today..." She stroked my head.

"Thank you mother..." I said, my voice sounding low.

I dismissed the maids after mother had left, then I sat down on my bed, twirling the rose in my fingers. It looked more lovely today. The red color had deepened and a beautiful fragrance was surrounding it. I went back to the mirror and tucked it neatly in my hair.

The music from down below increased in volume at the arrival of the groom. I took a peek from the door. Surely enough he was down there with his family. I quickly shut the door and leaned back against it. This was it Piyali...this was it.

I was taken downstairs to the altar...eveyone was blushing and happy to see me descend down the stairs. Prince Danish was watching me. He gave a small smile. I was brought before him, and the rituals began. Then suddenly I felt a cold sensation touching me. It remained there for a while, while I tried to ignore it. It reminded me of Abhay...I didn't want to create a scene in front of everyone.

I liked around the room to distract myself, but they were behaving awkwardly. Many were holding their heads in pain, and soon they sank to their knees. Then succumbed to unconsciousness. Only the two families, mine and Danish's, were still conscious. We were all paralyzed with fear. The lights went out, and then a tall figure stepped into the room. It took only a few moments to tell who it was. Abhay.

He stepped forward with a wild smirk on his face.

"I'm back my princess." He blew me a kiss. "Won't you welcome me, your highness?" He bowed mockingly.

They all watched him approach us with fearful expressions. My parents especially. Suddenly a sword handing from the wall levitated into the air, making its way into Abhay's open hand. He clutched it tightly and smirked. Then he looked at Danish, who was now trembling in fear.

"Let's have some fun, shall we prince?" He laughed. Prince Danish suddenly flew back against the back wall. The wall began to crumble under such force. His parents tried to move towards him, but an invisible barrier stopped them. In fact, even my parents and I were trapped.

Abhay shot his empty hand out towards Danish. His arms began to move accordingly to Abhay's hand movements. He watched over to him and placed the sword in his hand. Danish couldn't fight it. Abhay forced his hand shut. He gained control of Danish's body and stood him up. He then poised the sword at his neck, ready to slit his throat.

"Once you are out of the way...Piyali will be all mine." He said.

"Let...go...of...me..." Danish stammered. He tried with all his strength to break free of his control.

"I will...once your heart stops." He said.

The sword began to cut into his throat. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead. I tried to move but couldn't. He had stopped everyone.

"Abhay please don't kill him!"

"It's too late princess...these people have separated us long enough." His voice was filled with anger.

He took steps back, lifting Danish into the air. The sword was still on Abhay's control. In a split second, the sound of the sword filled the room. And all Danish's dismembered body fell to the ground, his head rolled to the side.

I closed my eyes...not able to handle the sight. His mother had fainted at the sight of her dead son. I tried to move again, this time succeeding. I was the only one that could move now. Abhay took my hand.

"You're coming with me my princess. You belong to me, forever."

"No...Abhay..."

"You don't get to say no princess. You only belong to me. I only have a right on you."

Mother began to scream curses at him. He got annoyed and put them into unconsciousness as well. Soon we were the only two left in our senses. Then suddenly a dark shadow formed behind us. Two men appeared from it.

"Abhay!!!" A large, booming voice was heard. "This is unacceptable!!! Falling for a mortal, a human girl. You shall be punished for your deeds."

"How do you plan on doing that?"

I felt a cold sensation again, but it felt more dark, more sinister. I was pulled back to the wall. A man was holding me, snickering at Abhay. His hand went over my bosom, and a painful sensation was created, like my heart was being crushed. Abhay's expression contorted into an expression of anger and worry.

"Get your hands off of her!!!" He roared. His crimson eyes glowed bright in anger.

"Only if you come with us...otherwise I shall kill her right here."

Beads of sweat formed on my forehead. My chest was filled with pain. The grip got tighter, as my body jerked in painful motions.

"Alright..I'll go with you...!" He growled. "Now let go of her!" He said.

The grip was released. I fell to the floor, gripping my chest painfully. I watched horrified as they took Abhay with them. They all disappeared into the dark shadow. Tears spilled again from my eyes. I would never see him again.

I heard a groaning from behind. It was the queen, Danish's mother. I turned my head to meet her spiteful gaze.

"You! You did this! You cursed girl!" She hissed. I shook my head wildly. She staggered towards the bloodied sword, and carried it back with her. She poised it at my stomach.

"You killed my son! I won't spare you!" She spat. Everyone had slowly regained consciousness, but only to see this scene. My parent gasped at the sight.

"No!!!!!" They yelled. But it was too late. The sword had plunged into my stomach. I saw my blood before falling to the ground. A bright light shone, and my eyes closed...

(Abhay's POV)

They imprisoned me in hell...kept me isolated. But I would come back soon...my princess would be waiting for me.

"I'll be back soon my love, to reclaim your heart as mine."

(FINALLY BACK TO PRESENT DAY!!)

(Piya's POV)

I jerked awake from the dream, or nightmare. I was sweating profusely. I drank some water and took some deep breaths. What the heck was happening? Me, a princess, in love with a demon?!?!? This Abhay Raichand... the same Abhay from my past life? Was this life of mine even real!? I looked at the necklace dangling from my neck. I hadn't taken it off after the party...didn't know why. It was causing this...as it pulsed with an eerie dark glow. I quickly removed it and threw it into a corner. No way did I want that thing near me...I couldn't sleep for the rest of the night. I needed to get to the bottom of things...and soon...

(Piya's POV)

I couldn't fall asleep anymore. I didn't want him to find me here. How had I fallen in love with a demon?! I went into the bathroom and shut the door. I splashed the cold water on my face and took deep breaths. I wiped my face and looked in the mirror. I saw his reflection behind me. I tried to scream, but he turned me around and clasped his cool hand over my mouth. My pulse raced and I felt a bead of sweat formed on my forehead.

"I know you have remembered everything Piyali..." He caressed my cheek seductively. "Your love has returned for you." He said. His piercing crimson eyes burned into my soul. He removed his hand and cupped my face. My mind wanted to repulse his touch, but my body melted to it. I couldn't help staring at his face. He was attractive, no doubt about it.

"Please leave me alone." I said, not meeting his gaze. "My name is Piya, not Piyali. I am not your love."

"Don't say that, my princess. I recognize your soul. You are my Piyali." He said.

"No..." I tried to resist.

"You are mine. Only mine." He said. He overpowered my body and senses. He laid a smoldering kiss on my lips. I was taken aback. He wrapped his arms around my waist and maintained the kiss to perfection. His lips were cool, and they burned on mine. I felt my back being pressed against the sink. I tried to gain control over my body and eventually escaped his grasp. I ran out of the bathroom and shut the door in front of me. I took a deep breath, then put back into horror with his sight in front of me. He lifted my chin with his finger.

"Did you think you could escape me, my princess?" He took hold of me and brushed a lock of my hair to the side. "We loved each other so much. But because of them we were separated." He sounded sad. My heart ached suddenly. Did I still share a connection to him? "But I finally found you, after 200 years." He gave a small smile as he caressed my face. I shuddered. My mind was in conflict with my heart. My heart ached for him, but my mind resisted. I pushed him away with all my strength.

"I'll be back for you Piyali. We belong with each other, whether you accept it or not." He said, then disappearing into thin air.

I sat down on my bed, taking in all the chaos that just occurred in just a few minutes. I stared at the necklace in the corner of the room. I went and picked it up, staring at it for a few moments. I stuffed it in an empty drawer, finding along with it a shimmering red rose. The same rose. I slammed it shut and stayed awake for the rest of the night.

(Abhay's POV)

I retreated back into my mansion. The house was cleaned up from the party. The emptiness bored me. I ventured into the garden with Piyali's picture in my hand. She was resisting, but not for long. I would make her fall in love with me again. I loved her even more in her new form. She was lovable and brave, completely different from when I first met her.

"I love you my princess." I kissed her picture, immediately reminded of our kiss in her bedroom. Even if she resisted, her soul wanted me. It still remembered our bond from her past life. Her soul still wanted me to be with her.

(Piya's POV)

Misha was freaked out when she saw me sitting on the bed, eyes bloodshot and hair put in a frenzy.

"Yo Piya! What happened yaar? Did you not sleep the entire night?" She sat next to me.

"No...I...I just had a nightmare, and I couldn't sleep afterwards." I lied.

"Want to tell me about it? It could make you feel better."

"No...no it's fine."

"Are you sure?" She inquired. She wasn't convinced.

"Yes I'm sure." I forced a smile. I was still freaked out about last night. What would I tell her? That my lost demonic lover had come to visit me?

"Okay then sleepy head. I don't think you should come to college today...you're too tired. I'm leaving then." She ruffled my hair and began to get up when I stopped her. I didn't want to be left alone at home anymore.

"No! Misha, I'm coming with you." I said. She looked at me funny.

"Really? You don't look so hot."

"Yes really." I said. I got up from bed and went to get ready. He couldn't get near me when I was in college. Yeah, he couldn't.

(At the college...)

"I'm right here my princess." I heard his voice right next to me. I held back a shriek, as I was in the library. No attention for me right now. I turned and found him sitting next to me.

"Why are you following me?!" I hissed. He chuckled, then stroked my cheek.

"I'm sorry. I can't stay away from you for long. I love being around you." He said. His eyes flashed a bright red.

"Please stay away from me." I said coldly.

"Why? Do I bother you?" He lifted his eyebrow.

"Yes you do." I said. He laughed it off.

"Odd. You weren't like this at all before."

Either he was dumb or he was really determined to impress me.

"How could I be the same? I'm saying for the last time that I'm not Piyali!" I said, trying my best to keep my voice low. People were giving me odd stares. Why wouldn't they? I was practically talking to myself.

"Go away." I said.

"Fine. You win. But I'm not giving up so soon." He got up and leaned down towards my face. He placed a kiss on my cheek. I turned bright red. He chuckled.

"Maybe you haven't changed after all." He said, then disappeared.

(Piya's POV)

I couldn't concentrate at all in class. All I could think about was that flashback of my past life. I found myself shocked at how childish my behavior was there. Misha tapped on the shoulder and asked me what the matter was. I just shook my head and continued to jot down notes.

I didn't even want to walk home. Last time I did that, I had run into him. Not again Piya. I decided to let my health-conscious self go for a while and went home with Misha on her scooter.

"You're acting funny nowadays Piya. Seriously, what's the matter?" She asked, perplexed.

"It's nothing serious Misha. Just stress." I said.

"Just making sure. You're not acting like yourself since the past few days."

I went straight to my room to take a nice warm shower. I really needed one. I opened the door to my room and almost shouted. He was lying across my bed, bare chested, and playing with the rose in his fingers. He was getting real creepy.

"Do you mind?! There's a thing called privacy!" I yelled at him. Luckily Misha had drowned herself in some loud punk rock music, so she couldn't hear me. I shut the door hard behind me. "If you think being a creep is going to make me fall in over with you again, then you are wrong!" I said.

"Me? A creep?" He laughed. Then he approached and circled around me. "Then how should I go about making you fall for me again?" He seized me by the waist. My heartbeat quickened again.

"I...you...just stop...stop pestering me right now." I said. But he didn't listen.

"Your heart wants otherwise." He said. I lost control over myself again, and found him lingering near my neck, where he soon left a wet kiss. And I liked it for some reason, I was so shameless.

"You can't win my heart so easily. I might have been naive before, but not now." I said. "Not to mention you want to possess my soul." That was the most freaky part.

"I tried and failed, love. Had it have been successful, we would've been together for eternity by now. You would've been bound to me, making it so that no one could separate us."

"Why? Why me? Why not some other girl?"

"Because you are the only one who made me experience this emotion called love." He said. "I never want you to leave my side. These 200 years chained in hell was nothing compared to how much I missed you, how much I wanted you near me."

That silenced me. He didn't do much except hold me in his arms. Who knew that a demon could fall in love as well? These supernatural creatures seemed completely bogus and made up. I didn't believe it until that night.

"Why are you so quiet, love?" He caressed my cheek with his fingers.

"No reason. Can you leave now? Please?" I had finally been polite to him.

"Alright. And I won't bother you as much now. I can see I'm irritating to you." He said. He let go of my waist and tucked the shimmering rose into my hair. I felt bad, and also felt a little crazy.

"Good night, my beautiful princess." He said. As usual he vanished into thin air.

I stood there silent for a few minutes, wondering what the heck was happening to me, in just a short span of time. I turned to look in the mirror, especially at the rose. It glowed a bright red in the dark room, with tinges of deep crimson red. It matched his eye color.

His eyes...I could see them everywhere. I felt like I was hallucinating. They made such a mark on me that I couldn't ignore it. I decided to join Misha, who was now watching a movie.

"Hey Piya. Didn't take your shower?" She looked confused. I looked down at myself, realizing that I had, in fact, forgotten to take my shower.

"I...uh...decided not to. Besides, I rather watch the movie with you." I deviated off topic. "Where's the popcorn?" I asked.

"In the microwave. Just popped it in a few seconds ago." I nodded and plopped down on the couch. An action movie was playing.

I tried to watch the movie, but I was focused on Abhay. I was staring blankly at one spot on the screen. I could feel his touches and kisses all over me. I rubbed my hand on my neck uncomfortably. I fell back and snuggled with a soft throw pillow, trying my best to keep him out of my head.

(Abhay's POV)

I picked up the necklace that I snatched from her drawer in my hand. I had to try again. I had to mark my claim on her soul. No one, not even her soulmate could take it for themselves. She was my mate. I would protect her no matter what got in my way.

"Once you fall for me once again, I will succeed in making you mine for the rest of eternity." I said to myself, dangling the necklace in front of my face. I was reminded of how fond she was of it. It was her favorite necklace.

I then realized that master wouldn't be so happy with my decision. He had punished me for falling for a human. But this time he wouldn't break me with a threat of hurting her, instead he would do worse. He had warned me.

(Flashback)

(Writer's POV)

"Abhay, I'm letting you go back to the mortal world. But kind this, if you ever make relations with them, especially that girl...then you will have to face the consequences. And they will be extremely grave."

"What more can you do to punish me?" He said, laughing a little.

"We will kill her. And not just that, we'll make sure that her soul is never reborn. It will be locked away, far away from you." He said. Abhay snarled. Dare anyone touch his beloved.

(End of flashback..)

I had to do my work quick. Once her soul was bound to me, they couldn't take her. She would live as an immortal under my protection. I laughed to myself. Master thought he was smart enough, but I was far ahead of him. I was too powerful for him, and he knew that. If only he didn't surround himself with his cronies, I would've taken him down already.

I ventured to her house and watched her from a distance. She was watching a movie with her friend. She looked so happy and cheerful. I missed that ethereal smile of hers. I vowed to myself that I would do everything in my power to protect her and give her the happiest life she could imagine. I would love her like no other.

(Piya's POV)

I was forced to walk home from class today as Misha was getting her scooter fixed today. The damn thing broke down at the worst time ever. It was getting dark and cold. Every rustle in the forest nearby freaked me out. I clutched the books close to my chest and kept walking, praying that I would reach home soon.

I passed a group of young guys who seemed slightly drunk. They cast lustful glances at me and whistles. I began to walk faster. They began to follow me. My breathing and pulse became quick and I began to panic.

"Hey beautiful, where are you going?" One called. He sounded relatively sober. I kept walking.

I decided to bolt when I got a safe distance away from them. I picked up my pace and began to run. They ran as well. I jumped down into the forest nearby, running and hiding as they all searched for me. I thought they had ran past me eventually, but one was hanging around in close proximity. I ran into him, not realizing it, and he seized me by the wrist, taking out a pocket knife and flipping it open.

"Let's have some fun shall we?" He sneered, dragging the blade across my arm. I shrieked in pain. Blood was gushing out, weakening me slowly. I tried to free myself, but his grip only got tighter. I then yelled at the top of my lungs, the name of that person who I would have never called before.

"Abhay!" I screamed. My clothes were getting torn in the struggle and by that man himself. No...It can't end like this...

(Abhay's POV)

I heard her screams loud and clear. I travelled to where she was. I could sense her from anywhere. No one would be spared. Absolutely no one. I would destroy them.

I appeared from the thick shadows in front of her. She was holding herself, covering her bare skin with the torn cloth of her garments. A large gash extended towards the lengths of her arm and she was crying profusely. Until she saw me.

The man in front of her was wielding a knife. I touched my hand on his back and began to exert my control over his body. There was no need to possess him completely. I made myself visible to him.

"You touched my beloved, time to die." I said into his ear. He tried to turn around, but I kept him from in his place, paralyzed. "No one could dare touch her while I'm in her life." I hissed. Fear arose in the form of his quickened heartbeat and breaths.

I started by making him cut himself. He screamed as he tried to regain control of his arm.

"That's nothing. Wait till the real fun begins." I smirked, standing in front of him. His eyes grew wide in fear as he stared into mine. I crushed each bone slowly, watching his face contort and hearing his painful cries. Piya covered her ears in disgust and closed her eyes. Each bone broke with a loud snap. Blood was oozing from his entire body, his pulse so fast that the blood flowed quickly out of his system. I contorted my fingers, to stop his heart from beating. The shadow trapped his heart, the same shadow which I was controlling.

"Grand finale." I said. I sparked a small flame in the center of my palm. Waving my hand over him, his body caught on fire, the flames consuming him within minutes. The wind blew the ash away.

I turned to Piya, who was cowered in fear and disgust. Dried tears and blood stained her beautiful features. I kneeled down next to her and took her cut arm. Her breathing was shallow and her eyes fluttered, fighting the incoming unconsciousness. I healed every inch of the wound. She had lost a lot of blood in the process. I placed my hand over her heart and transferred my energy to her. In no time, her breathing returned to normal and she could open her eyes. Her lost blood would be replaced in no time.

"Abhay...you...you..." I placed my finger over her lips.

"Shhh...you're weak, love. Don't speak." I said. It was the first time I heard her say my name willingly. I picked her up and held her against my chest. I teleported her home, holding her tight to make sure she was still with me.

We arrived in her bedroom. I carried to her bed and tucked her in the covers. I put her to sleep. I turned to leave out the window when suddenly I felt her hand still holding tightly to mine. It brought a small smile to my face. She was getting attached to me again. I kneeled down in front of her and kissed her.

"I'm always here to protect you, always here to love you. No matter what I am, my love for you will never diminish."

I tucked the red rose under her resting palm. After admiring her beauty for just a moment, I left from there.

(Piya's POV)

I woke up to find the rose tucked neatly under my hand. I felt much better from last night. I remembered Abhay saving my life. Just like before, only a little more brutal. But he did save me. I was surprised with my own behavior. He was the first one I remembered in my crisis. It was like I already knew that he would always be there to protect me. I saw how enraged he was when he saw me in that state, because of that man.

My hand went to my lips. His taste lingered there still. I brushed my hair back and twirled the rose in my fingers. It glowed brightly only when I touched it. I brought it to my nose and inhaled its sweet scent.

My quiet moment was interrupted when Misha opened the door and walked towards me. She looked confused and embarrassed.

"What's wrong Misha?" I asked.

"Nothing. Just making sure you were okay. You were talking very loudly in your sleep last night." She said, trying to suppress a laugh.

"What? What was I saying?" I hoped and prayed I didn't say anything I shouldn't have.

"You are calling Abhay. You know that guy, at the party..." She paused. "Something like asking him to stay with you..." Then she scratched her head. "I don't know what else. I was so exhausted and confused that I didn't even make the effort to see what you were blabbering about."

"Oh...ummm..." I said, biting my lip.

"You must be confused as I am. Oh well, let's just move on and get on with our day." She pulled me out of bed.

I rubbed my sleepy eyes and got ready. Misha and I had planned a day at the park today, as it was going to be sunny after a while. I put on my best spring dress and flats.

"Let's go Misha!" I called. She hobbled over on one foot, trying to put her shoe on the other.

"I'm coming! Hold on!" She said.

We reached the park shortly after. It was a nice sunny day, odd but wonderful in the wintertime. Misha went to go buy some ice cream nearby. Meanwhile, I took a seat on the bench overlooking a vast pond. In front of me was a a couple. They looked so deep in love, teasing each other and cuddling. I smiled to myself, seeing them.

"We were just like that, remember?" A voice said behind me. I jumped, startled. Abhay was standing behind me. And this time he was visible to everyone. How did I know? Misha had come back with the ice cream and said:

"Hi Mr. Raichand!"

"Oh please...call me Abhay.." He said, smiling at me.

(Piya's POV)

"Mind if I join you two?" Abhay asked. I chewed nervously on my bottom lip. It would be one awkward day. Misha smiled wide and nodded her head. We sat together one the bench, Misha ushering him to sit next to me. She shot me a wink and sat down on the opposite side. Abhay looked at me. His eyes were a bluish-grey instead of the piercing crimson red. It was odd, seeing him like this. He snuck his hand on top of mine. My fingers curled in defense. Luckily Misha didn't notice. She kept licking away at the ice cream cone. Mine was melting, and I had lost my appetite.

"Are you going to eat that?" Misha piped in. I shook my head and thrust the melting, chocolaty mess into her waiting hand.

"Thanks." She noticed the awkwardness between Abhay and I and snickered to herself.

"I'm going to go...you know...clean up a little. I'll just be back." Oh no...

"Misha wait!" I yelled at her, but she had already sprinted off. Abhay chuckled.

"So sweet of your friend. She wants us to spend time together." He grabbed my hand again.

"Sit." He said politely. I forced myself to sit down after engaging in conflict with myself on whether I should bolt when I could.

It was quiet between the two of us. Abhay looked at me admiringly. Looking for the perfect opportunity, he leaned in and kissed me on the cheek. I blushed and my hand shot up to my cheek.

"Did I ever tell you that you look even more beautiful when you blush?" He asked.

"No...actually...Do you really think so?" I blurted my inner thoughts to him. He smirked. Meanwhile I was cursing myself in my head.

"Of course, my princess." He cupped my face. I felt him move closer to my face, leaning in for the kiss. My lips quivered and my face grew hot. He made sure I wouldn't back out, because I had no control over my body any longer. He crushed his lips on mine and wrapped an arm around my waist. I found myself kissing him back, for the first time too.

*Piya! What the hell are you doing?! You're in a public place!* My conscious screamed at me. I pushed away, gasping for breath. Luckily the kiss wasn't too passionate, otherwise I'd get kicked by old women telling me to have some shame in public. I didn't want to get kicked.

"What happened?" He asked.

"Nothing. There are people around." I hissed under my breath.

"So what?" He said. "Do I look like I care?"

I shot him the most evil, piercing glare in the history of glares. He simply laughed.

"You make me fall for you even more...Piya." I stared at him, surprised. It was the first time he didn't call me princess, love, or Piyali. Unconsciously, a small smile appeared on my face. I bit my lip to suppress it.

"I finally made you smile." He said. "After such a long time, I got to see such a priceless smile, even if it was a small one."

"Thank...you." I said. It was rare that I got such a genuine compliment. Other guys just said that to impress me. I blushed again.

"I must go now. Tell your friend that it was nice meeting her." He caressed my cheek. "Bye."

I watched him till he disappeared from view. He turned back and blew me a kiss before departing. Misha then decided to come back from her long journey.

"Where the hell were you?" I asked her, tapping my foot.

"Oh me?! Well, I went to clean up from your ice cream mess, and then I bumped into an old friend, so I...chatted with her for a while."

"Yep...sure you did." I said. She laughed and hugged me.

"Sorry buddy. I had to do it. I saw the spark between you two right from that party. You two looks so cute together." I blushed again. Misha laughed.

"See? You like him..." She teased. I elbowed her in the stomach. "Okay, let's finish what we came for:" she slung her arms around my shoulders and we explored the park for the rest of the day.

At the end, we watched the sunset. I witnessed a flashback of myself, back in that time, watching the sunset. I was waiting for Abhay. I suddenly wanted him with me again. I was expecting him to show up after the sun went down. Would he? Maybe he would...he would know that I was thinking of him.

(Piya's POV)

Do I love him? That was my only question. I may have loved him in the past, but things were much different. I was not the same girl that he saw. I was a normal girl, not a princess. I was more practical, not hopelessly emotional. I was Piya, not Piyali. But I did want love. My heart and soul loved him immensely, but I couldn't accept that. Why? I hugged one of the throw pillows on the couch and buried my face in it. I felt a cool sensation brush against my nape, making my hairs stand on end. I turned around frantically, expecting him to be there. He wasn't. Or maybe he was, but he was hiding. Waiting for my answer.

Would I have to leave my whole life behind...just to join him in the realm of immortality? I would dread the day. I couldn't just leave my friends, my future, behind. A lone tear escaped my eye. I looked at Misha, who was dancing away to her music while cooking. I could never leave her behind, she was like a sister to me. I bit my lip to avoid sobbing uncontrollably. That's when I felt the sensation again, and this time he was here. He kneeled in front of me and began to wipe my tears.

"Don't cry my love. I hate to see you upset." I let him console me, but I didn't say anything. He sighed. "I know you are in conflict with your emotions. I can feel it."

"Really?" I said sarcastically. He backed off, seeing my expression. "How can I ever be happy? I can't sacrifice my entire life just to be with you!" My voice began to get louder, until I realized that Misha could hear me. I toned it down a bit.

"Who said you will have to sacrifice your life? I won't let that happen. Of course you will be immortal, but you will still be here, living with your loved ones." I let more tears escape as he attempted to wipe each one. "I'm not that selfish." He said. "Even if I have to stay in my human form, I will do it for you."

I stared at him. His eyes pierced into mine again, this time they were filled with concern and anguish.

"We're not meant for each other." I said, my voice more icy than normal.

"I'll break all the rules, just to be with you." He took my hand and kissed it.

"What if you lose me?" I asked.

"That day will never come. You go, I follow." He simply replied. "Nothing will separate us."

He paused.

"I will wait till midnight for your answer." He said, then taking steps backward till he vanished.

Misha and I ate dinner mostly in silence. I was playing with my food, my mind on what answer I'd give him.

"Piya, why aren't you eating?"

"Huh?" I said, broken from my trance. "Oh...I...I wasn't feeling that hungry..."

"Or is it anything else?" She looked at me suspiciously.

"No Misha...it's nothing." I looked her straight in the eye.

"Whatever you say." She shrugged.

I went up to bed early, giving an excuse of a headache. I sat down on the bed and glanced at the clock. I had 3 hours till midnight. I crumpled the bed sheet in my fists. I couldn't think of a proper answer. Conflict was constantly hindering my success. My love for him had existed all these years within my soul. But how could our love work? He wasn't even human, he was never human. He was created a demon, never to experience pure emotion, let alone love. How did I change him? What was so special about me?

I clutched my head in frustration about all the voices in my head. Time past quickly, and in no time, the clock struck twelve. Just as I had expected, he appeared before me.

"What is your answer Piya? Will you be mine again?"

"First answer me. Why did you wait 200 years for me?" He sighed.

"Because...I wanted you. I loved you too much to stay away." He began to say, as he closed the distance between us. Tears ran down my cheeks. "You are the only human girl who had interested me. Your ethereal beauty, your unique personality, the beautiful soul I saw within you, your pure aura, everything."

He suddenly appeared behind me. His cold lips grazed my bare shoulder. I shuddered. He then pulled down the strap to my nightie and slowly placed kisses on every inch of my skin. He snuck his hand up my nightie and caressed my stomach. I fell back into his embrace and melted. His hand moved up and caressed my bosom sensuously. My back arched, but then he pulled me down and locked his arm around my waist.

He whispered into my ear.

"Your answer?" He asked.

I hesitated at first. But I finally did admit to myself that I, in fact, did want to be his again. With quivering lips, I mouthed my answer.

"Yes...I do..."

"That's just what I was waiting to hear." He lifted my chin and placed a soft, yet passionate kiss on my lips. And I found myself kissing him back. His hand moved down just a little to be just between my chest and stomach.

"Now let's try this again, shall we?" He said.

I watched as a dark shadow traveled through his arm. I suddenly felt a strong burn in my skin, underneath his hand. He was possessing my soul again.

"Aaa..." I moaned in pain. My breathing and heart rate increased.

"Almost done, love. Almost there." He said.

I soon felt a shock, jolting my body back. I felt extremely weak, but he held me up in his embrace.

"Finally, I have bound myself to you. You are now immortal, and we are inseparable." He said, lying me carefully down in bed. He laid down next to me.

"Are...are...you staying?" I said, out of breath.

"Of course I am. I can't leave you behind when you are this weak." He kissed my forehead.

"I can't move." I said.

"Soon you will be able to. Once you replenish your strength. Don't worry Piya, I won't let anything happen to you."

He put me to sleep, but I could still feel his presence in my unconsciousness. He didn't leave my side for the rest of the night.

(Piya's POV)

I felt odd. This soul binding thing made me want him. Every second of my day, I was craving for his presence. And I kind of hated it. I couldn't concentrate on anything else.

And that wasn't the oddest thing. No, the oddest thing was that I somehow had the ability to heal much faster from injury. I had sliced my finger while cutting vegetables. Before I even had a chance to get a bandage, the cut had vanished. It was as if it never existed. I mean, it was a good thing, but slightly creepy. What more had this bond done to me?

That question got answered when I had decided to take a shower after a intensive workout with Kabir, who had decided to show up today after a while. I stripped of all my clothing and turned the shower on. I saw my reflection in the mirror and gasped. On the left side of my abdomen was an odd pattern, seemingly inked into my skin. It was black, and it had an odd pulsing glow. Was this his mark? I touched it lightly, and it glowed a deep purple. I shuddered and pulled my hand back.

This was more than I had expected...

(Abhay's POV)

Master had come to visit today, along with some of his cronies. Wonderful. I rolled my eyes at his absurd anger and tapped my foot, waiting for this to get over with.

"I had warned you Abhay!"

"Warned me about what?" I asked, feigning innocence. He fumed, which I found amusing.

"Don't play games with me! I wanted you to stay away from that human girl! But you chose to disobey me!" He roared.

"I did. What will you do about that?" I said, laughing.

"How dare you speak to me with such insolence!?" His voice boomed in the empty mansion. "Do you not respect your master?!" I chuckled.

"Respect...hmmm. Probably not." I said. I stuck my hand out forced him against the wall and held him there. His cronies lunged at me, but I shot them back as well.

"Not so powerful, are you master?" He glared at me. I simply laughed.

He looked at one of his cronies and nodded. That crony disappeared.

"Where did you send your friend?" I said, cocking my head to the side.

"To her home. She will never see the light of day, nor will her soul ever return to this world." He hissed.

"We'll see about that." I said, vanishing. I had to see the show.

(Piya's POV)

I was home alone. Misha and Kabir had gone to the college library to get some books that Misha was too lazy to get. I dressed myself in a simple white frock, and grabbed a book from the shelf. I took a seat on the couch and began to read. Then I felt a cold draft from the window. It wasn't a breeze, so I assumed it was Abhay lurking around.

"Abhay?" I said, smiling just a little.

"Wrong. Not Abhay." A sinister voice spoke, then laughed.

I turned around abruptly, seeing a man dressed in complete black. His eyes were crimson red as well. I took steps back and held the book in front of my chest.

"Who are you and what do you want?"

"Your soul. Master sent me to capture you. Because of you, Abhay isn't following orders. Let alone orders, he is defying all of us."

"No..."

"And after you are out of the way, I'm sure that Master will destroy him." He snickered.

"No...you can't!" I yelled, bursting into tears.

"Of course I can. But I want Master to finish the deed himself."

He kept a close watch on me, taunting me.

"Although, I do see what he saw in you. You are very beautiful." He touched me with his finger, and I shuddered. Only Abhay had the right to touch me like that.

A few minutes passed before the rest of them showed up. Abhay wasn't there. I bit my lip to avoid crying any further. They all looked at me, and then they split the group, letting a taller figure in a black cloak step forward.

"So you are that human girl?" He looked at me from head to toe. "Interesting."

I started at him. He seemed angry and annoyed. I cowered against the wall.

"Let's put you out of your misery, shall we?" He said, sneering. I closed my eyes as I felt a painful dark aura surround me. I felt weak in the knees. The book in my arms fell, slamming into the ground. Then something unexpected happened. The area where the rune was located was searing with power. A strength surged through me, and I was able to resist this demon's power. His power was being blocked by the aura the rune exerted. Almost as if...it was protecting me. It was a piece of him, after all. That meant he was here. He would always be here.

I saw him behind the others, laughing. I let out a smile of relief. He was in front of me, safe.

"Abhay..." I called to him, my hand extended. He smiled.

(Abhay's POV)

Master looked at me in shock.

"No, you didn't..." He said.

"I did." I smirked. "I'm not a risk taker, you should know this by now, Master. Her soul is mine. You don't have the authority to take it."

The rest got angry. One of them yelled at Master.

"Master, ignore him. He has betrayed us. Take the girl's soul and let's leave from here!"

"No! We can't do that! We have no power over her anymore..." He said, defeat clearly present in his voice. "We will risk losing our power if we try." He said, glaring at me.

"So sad..." I pitied them. "So close yet so far."

"Let's go." He said, angered.

"Bye." I waved mockingly at them. "See you in hell."

(Piya's POV)

They disappeared one by one, leaving Abhay and I alone in the room. I ran to him and hugged him tight. He held me against his chest and stroked my hair gently.

"Are you alright, my princess?" He asked. I nodded.

"I was scared. I thought I would die." I said, my voice shaking.

"You're immortal now, love. That day will never come." He kissed my forehead. "I love you."

"I love you too." I said.

He took me up to my room, and we spent our time just like before. He'd tower over me while we laid on the bed, just watching and admiring me. Without saying a single word. We could see the full moon shine in from the open window. We watched it together, fingers entwined with each other's. He took the rose from its vase and tickled my face with it. I burst out giggling every time. I stared into his eyes, finding them glowing softly in the darkness, despite how bright of a red they were. I stroked his face, intrigued by his perfect features. He took my exploring hand and kissed it with just the perfect intensity.

"Just like the old times, isn't it?" He said. I had closed my eyes, just to admire his deep voice.

"Yes." I said. I felt his lips graze the side of my neck. I turned my head and gave him more room to explore. His touch was satisfying, as if it quenched an unknown thirst.

"I wish to take you somewhere tomorrow night. Will you join me?"

"Where?" I asked curiously.

"It's a secret. For now I just need an answer."

"Alright." I said, smiling. I was already eager to know where he could be taking me.

"Good night, my princess. I will be back to take you tomorrow night." He said, placing a delicate kiss on my lips and vanishing as usual.

(Piya's POV)

He arrived in my bedroom as soon as night cast its dark shadow over us.

"Ready?" He said. I took his waiting hand and nodded.

"Take me there fast! I love surprises!" I squealed. He caressed my cheek and laughed.

"Anything for you my love." He kissed my hand, then pulled me close to his bare chest. "Close your eyes."

I shut my eyelids slowly, snuggling close to his muscular chest as much as I could. I felt light on my feet, as if I was floating for a brief second. The air around us suddenly became colder, the ambience becoming more foreign and mysterious than I and ever experienced.

"Open your eyes, my princess." He said.

"Are we here?" I said, jumping a little. I was full of excitement. He chuckled.

"Of course." He said lovingly.

I opened my eyes and turned towards the direction of a large structure that I saw in my peripheral vision. I gasped in surprise when I saw it, flashbacks of my past life flashing in color before my eyes. It was the palace. My old home. It was still standing after 200 years.

"Abhay...this...it's..." My voice trailed, still recovering from shock and awe.

"The palace. Our first meeting place." He said, leaning down into my neck and placing a gentle kiss. "Come." He said, taking my hand. I linked arms with him and leaned against his shoulder.

He led me into the palace halls and straight up the staircase, which was now covered in thick vegetation. I saw a flashback of him offering his hand for a dance, his crimson eyes the only feature visible through his masquerade mask. He smiled as he watched me relive our past moments together. He remembered them more vividly than I did.

The bedroom was our final stop. He touched the thick vines that had blocked the entrance and watched as they shriveled up one by one, submitting to his dark aura. The doors opened by themselves, creaking as loud as possible. But what lied inside shocked me. The entire bedroom was brand new. The same bed, same furniture, same colors, everything. I stepped inside and gazed at how much it resembled my flashback. It was like it was never left to rot.

"I had found this place so beautiful and full of memories that I had to preserve it. Before the wedding, I had frozen this room in time. That's why it was never left to rot." He said, wrapping one arm around me and caressing my cheek and neck with the other. His eyes traveled to the neatly kept satin bed. He growled seductively in my ear.

"Abhay!" I blushed, realizing his desire to claim my body as his. He had my heart and my soul, just my body remained.

"You know, my princess? Before you, I had seduced and bedded many women, demons like myself and humans as well." He sensed the burning jealously that I was now feeling because of his revelation. I wanted to punch him, but realizing that he was impervious to any of my attacks, I bailed on the idea. He spoke again. "I didn't care who I wanted, but now I do. I only want you, I want your body. The rest don't matter anymore, they never did." He said, now kissing me seductively. I had to admit, he had the mastery of seduction on him. "Only you matter. You're my mate, my partner, my lover, for the rest of eternity."

"I hate it when you are so straightforward." I huffed. He chuckled and held me tighter. Then naughty thoughts plagued my mind. It was weird too, because I would've expected him to be human.

"You are in fact, very naughty, love. But your mind is very entertaining." I had forgotten he could read my mind...ugh. Piya, just why?

"Why did you tell me this?" I said, jealously clearly burning in my voice.

"Because I don't want to hide anything from you." He purred. "I want to be truthful to you."

He lifted me into his arms and carried me to the soft satin bed, draping the canopy over us. He took my lips in his and filled my taste buds with the unique flavor of his tongue. He seemed so human, so right. He became that way for me, just for me.

His left hand gripped my petite waist and squeezed it, while trailing his other hand to the zipper of my dress. His cool fingers brushed against my bare warm flesh, slowly and . I shuddered in delight. I began to mould into his touch. I felt him slip his hand underneath the thin cloth and unhook my bra. The dress went slack and exposed my shoulders and chest. I bent over due to instinct, trying to cover myself.

"Don't be shy, my princess. Surrender yourself to me." He said seductively. He laid me down on the bed, towering over me. He pulled down the cloth of the dress and marked his love over my vulnerable flesh. I brushed my fingers over his perfectly chiseled abs and chest. He groaned and fought aggressively for dominance. He crushed his lips and sucked vigorously on the love bites that plagued my neck. His fingers teased my burning skin, and I let out a soft moan.

My dress was gone from my body after a swift movement of his arm. The desire reflected in his eyes was strong. All hell broke loose, and soon we were both devoid of clothing, and under the soft satin sheets. He played and aroused me in such ways that I never knew was possible. It was exhausting, but I loved it. He broke my virginity tonight. I belonged to him, I beared his mark and his claim.

I wanted to move around, so I grabbed the maroon satin sheets and wrapped them around my body. I took baby steps closer to the window, while Abhay watched from the bed lovingly. I pushed the window open and gazed outside. The view of the forest down below was still breathtaking, and the slight breeze was calming to the touch. I let my fingers dance in the moonlight, feeling the breeze run alone the length of my arm.

"You look so beautiful..." Abhay whispered. I turned and smiled at him. He got up and joined me, already wearing his clothing again. How did he do that? Never mind...

(Abhay's POV)

I cupped her face and caressed her delicate, rosy cheeks with my thumbs. Her eyelids fluttered and her perfect red lips formed a small smile.

"I love you Piya." I said. She giggled.

"I love you too Abhay." She wrapped her arms right around me in a hug, burying her face in my chest and inhaling my scent.

She gave me a heart, her heart. I could experience another kind of life in my entire existence. She gave me that privilege, and I was grateful to her for it. She then pointed towards the forest.

"Isn't that where you used to watch me from?" She asked curiously.

"Yes my love." I said. "Don't you remember?"

"I do...but just bits of it." She said, mesmerizing. "It's a blur."

"Would you like to see that again?" I asked. She turned to me excited.

"Yes! Please..." She said.

"Alright...close your eyes." I said, placing my hands on her temples. I helped her mind visualize the first night from which I watched her gaze from the window. She smiled as she roamed in the dreamland.

"It seems so real." She said. I removed my hands from her head.

"You can open your eyes again." I said. "It was real, a long time ago. All these years of waiting finally meant something. I have you."

I brushed her dark curls from her swirling eyes. She blinked twice and gazed up at me, taking my face into her delicate hands. They were soft and smelt of lavender. I kissed her palm and gazed at her.

We laid on the bed together, just like the old times. Piya was thinking about something, and I didn't want to intrude her thoughts.

"Something bothering you, love?" I asked her.

"I was thinking...how would we tell the world that we are together? I mean, I'm assuming that we can't get married traditionally, because holy things can harm you...right?" I smiled and nodded. It was a negative reason, but she accepted it with a smile. Love held no boundaries, I had heard over the years.

"Yes, you are correct. But luckily you humans have devised a system called "court marriage", so we can use that." I chuckled. "Mere papers can't harm me." Their society was odd. You couldn't have an open and intimate relationship without giving it the name of marriage. But I would do anything to please her, to make sure that she would never have to leave her other life behind. This concept of "marriage" was still a bit foreign to me.

"I'll have something arranged." I assured her. She smiled and grasped my hand.

"No proposal?" She asked, now frowning.

"I'm sorry love. I was confused on how I was to do it." She giggled.

"It's okay Abhay. This night together was a proposal to me. I loved this surprise." She smiled, cupping my face again.

I kissed her forehead and let her go to dress herself. Then I let her fall asleep in my protective embrace. She looked so heavenly, so innocent in her sleep that I couldn't describe it. I was lucky. I had her, and she had me.

(Piya's POV)

(3 months later...)

Everything went by so fast, like a bullet train. Abhay and I started meeting more in public, catching the eyes of a few of our acquaintances. They had seen the love we shared. That was step one. Step two was telling everyone that we planned to marry.

Abhay used his new financial power to arrange a court marriage, scheduled to take place in just a few days. Misha and Kabir, both overly excited, agreed to be our two witnesses. Abhay sent me gifts, buying me the most for gorgeous wedding sari ever. I decided to only wear the ruby necklace he had gifted me. Luckily it matched with the sari's red hue.

The day had arrived shortly, quicker than expected. I now found myself sitting in the registrar's office, dressed like the perfect bride and holding Abhay's hand. Nisha and Kabir watched from behind.

"You two are just so cute together." Misha whispered. Abhay looked at me and smiled in amusement in seeing my cherry red face.

The registrar slid the papers forward and we both signed them. Now we could truly be together. I turned to him and threw my arms around him tight.

"I love you my princess." He whispered in my ear.

"You love saying that, don't you?" I said. He chuckled.

"Anything to remind you that you belong to me." He squeezed my waist and nicked his teeth on my ear. It was so quick that no one else in the room noticed.

We were taken home in a brand new car that Abhay had purchased and decorated for me. He opened the back door for me and helped me sit inside. He joined me in the back seat and held me hand in his lap.

The mansion of his was dark. He set me down on my feet and let me walk slowly into the dark foyer. The candles sitting on the tables nearby flickered as a force made them light. Each one lit up as I reached its side. I turned to see Abhay with a small ball of fire flickering in his palm. He brushed it in a line, and I turned again toward the living room. A perfect arrangement of candles in the shape of a heart lit up simultaneously.

"Do you like it?" He asked innocently. He closed his palm and the flame burned out.

"It's wonderful." He lifted me into his arms and carried me to the bedroom upstairs. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the multi-colored candles that flickered brightly on the floor.

He lifted the veil off of me and let it fall to the floor, exposing my waist. He ran his hand over his markings on my abdomen. A sudden flash of desire and want surged through my body.

"Do you like that?" He said, his tone deepening.

"I do..." I moaned.

He turned me around and buried his face in my cleavage. I felt his cool tongue swirl against my bosom. He bit the soft skin there and sucked hard.

"You want more?" He groaned.

"Yes."

He kneeled on the floor and placed his bites all over my abdomen. One tore my skin open. I bit my lip to avoid screaming. He saw the anguish in my eyes and ran his hand gently over the wound. A strong heat flushed through it, taking the pain away with it.

He made love to me for the entire night. I wasn't exhausting myself like I would've if I weren't immortal. I had unlimited energy, it seemed like.

I was now living in an alternate world, one that millions of pieces to put together and explore. And I could do that with him.

(Abhay's POV)

My princess was finally in my arms again, cherish able for centuries to come. I lifted her lips to mine and gave her the most passionate kiss of the night. After all, who could resist a sexy, demon's kiss?