Shivika SS -- Wooing His Wife -- 08-08-18 -- pg 11

"All right Madame. I m all ears to your conditions." He said tracing the body of his cup and picking of up to his lips.

"You won't get the rights of a husband, because you are technically not!"

"What!" He almost choked on the coffee he was sipping. Well this was the least he had dreamed off. All his dreams had her. Had them doing practically everything save this. Here, they were seated in a nice open cafe, the day was beautiful and breezy. No. They weren't on a date. Anything but that. They were striking a deal. A deal that his heart had dragged him into. The conditions of the same were being discussed. Well, well, imposed may be the right word.

Mrs. Shivaay Singh Oberoi, oops, Ex-Mrs.Shivaay Singh Oberoi was drawing out the rules her ex-husband, must follow in order to have a chance of being given the second chance.

"Our divorce isn't granted." He reminded her.

"But you signed the papers, Mr. Oberoi!"

"Stop this Mr. Oberoi. Call me anything but that!" He spoke irritated.

"Whatever, that is up to me. You won't get the rights of a husband. That's it. No debate." She spoke haughtily.

"Does that include what I am thinking it does?" He asked rather stupidly, staring at her.

"Indeed it does, Mr. Oberoi. You are not going there whatsoever!" She almost scoffed with an air of superiority.

Before he could further argue she laid the next rule.

"You don't kiss me, no where!" She added the next.

He gaped at her bewildered. How could he practically do that? Not kiss her! In fact that was one thing lingering at the back of his mind as he saw her moving lips. Those full lips painted in gloss. Oh, things made it worse, for he knew very well how experinced they were at, driving him insane.

She snapped to bring his attention back.

"How is that possible?" He had meant to say it in his mind, but he said it aloud.

"Shivaay!" she narrowed her eyes at him. "I mean it!"

She said 'Shivaay!'. A part of him did a mental dance. Shivaay Singh Oberoi and mental dance, wow, she sure had made him mad in her love! Shivaay at any point knew, all he had to do was pull her and kiss her to insanity for her to know how much and what he felt for her. He , however was willing to take the hard way this time, and win her heart, with absolutely no seduction or fatal attraction, just like she wanted him to.

Well not all words mean what they are supposed to.

"You don't touch me!" She laid the next. Oh, she was having the time of her life seeing those expressions crossing his face. Comparing him to a kid whose candy had been snatched, would be euphemism. But for once she loved the power to decide for the two. Just like he had. She couldn't wait to see him lose this time. But that was something she did not want. Him to lose. She wanted him to win. But she was not going to make it easy just for his sake.

"Go on..." He said half losing interest. How could she think he would be able to keep his hands off her? Mad woman. But a part of him knew, this was essential to win her heart back. He for one, was willing to go however far she wanted him to, to win her heart, again.

"You have a deadline! " she declared. Relaxing back on her chair she sipped on the juice from the straw. "Three months!" She revealed. She was bad at math, but good at logic. He kept him away from himself for three darned months. Revenge is served well! If she was good at math and commerce, like he was, she would know that there was something called 'interest' and 'compensation '.

He blinked and then came forward onto the table. "That won't be required. "

She leaned forward meeting his gaze. "We will see! I ain't going to be easy this time around!" He stared at her lips, they were closer now. One kiss? Shut up SSO. Wow he was talking to himself now. Wait did he call himself SSO. Well, it wasn't that bad. SSO!

"I don't want you to be!" He said with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

How could a man practically make one feel so desirable without doing anything at all? She thought to herself.

She smirked. If Mr. Oberoi knew how Mrs. Oberoi took revenge. She was sure he would give up too soon. She had made the smartest decison by eliminating intimacy at first move. There was no way he could make her weak now. False, that! His one look was enough.

Oh, the woman was unaware that she had challenged not just him but her as well.

That was what exactly was going in his mind. He was impressed to see the player in her emerge. She should have known, he was an experienced player while she naive. But, one thing that he bookmarked was, the game should remain a game and not go far to becoming war.

Because war meant destruction. He had heart for none. He had been hurt and so had she. He would rather lose than injure her again. But, that is exactly what he couldn't do. Couldn't Lose. Because that meant, losing her.

He smiled in anticipation. Oh, he would have the time of his life, turning tables. He mentally noted to make her pay for this after, the game was over. For one thing that was to be known was Shivaay Singh Oberoi never lost. Never.

"What so amusing?" She asked finally not able to keep the curiosity to herself. What was he thinking and smiling?

"Future is!" He smiled.

Oh, boy! The wall she had built around herself in days, already had cracks with that curve of his lips.

"Can I drop you, home?" He asked like a true gentleman. It was easier to be rash with the Wild Cat than this Sweet Singh Oberoi. Well, she made note to go home and work on certain things. First repair this dent he had just made in the wall she had built around her. Second, learn to put up that mask of nonchalant attitude on the face. Third, grow over his Sweet Singh Oberoi personality. Fourth, listing his weakness. So she could play better.

She was about to place her hand in his outstretched one. When he pulled back. "No touching!" He remarked amusingly. Oh this was going to be fun. She rolled her eyes and walked haughtily to his car. She had to also, work on giving him back, much . Otherwise, he would surely get to her too soon. Her heart danced at that thought. Her mind whacked her stupid heart. Oh this was going to be one hell of a crazy chapter of her life. Well, like last few were not! The popular Mind Vs Heart disease which once upon a time her husband was down with, had now got to her.

He smiled at her confused expressions. She was adorable. Cute, also. Cute made her gorgeous. And gorgeous made her desirable. That reminded him she was sexy. Oh, wrong turn taken ! For all he wanted do now was, pull her to him and do things. Things she would blush and turn crimson at. He cursed in his mind. This after all, wasn't anywhere easy as the games he had played. Changing the gear he focussed on driving. He had to come up with something soon to curb this new formula she had applied between the two. Time to wake up the genius. Rules were made to be broken! He smiled at that thought!

Teaser for next-

"Anika?"

"Hmm!" She said leaping out of her thoughts.

"Are you sure this is what you want?"

Without thinking she nodded in a yes. He smiled.

Now, how do you feel about this?

Since you all just couldn't get enough of these thunderbolt adorbs and same for me, here I am with a spin off tale! What happened on those three months? ;)

Now, tell me which side have you chosen? Oh do choose one, this is going to be fun!

-Anami!

Chapter 2 -And It Begins

He gave a faraway look as they stood at her doorstep. "You won't call me in?" He said flashing her a charming smile. Oh boy, this man had already began batting for himself. She was melting. No Anika. Be hard for him to crack. If he loves you he will win, don't be soft.

She nodded in a no, "Nope!" She leaned against the door.

"Why not?" He rested his elbow on the door frame and tilted his head, not breaking the eye contact. The two could play all along. Her heart was skipping beats. Oh, no! He looked, he looked handsome, charming, inviting and everything. She gulped.

He noticed and concealed his mirth. Oh, boy this woman was crazy for him. How would she keep her own rules?

"Look, Mr. Oversmart. You are stranger to me now. So yes. Don't meet me again!" She came up quickly.

"What!" He looked baffled.

She simpered impressed by her quick thinking. "Okay bye!"

"What wait. When did this come in? " he asked baffled.

Anika smirked. "I told you, of you - win my heart from scratch. That meant, I don't know you,right!"

"Yea right, you know me better than I know myself!" He remarked.

She looked into his eyes. That was true. She could feel how restless he was to get his wife back. But, she did not want it to make it easy. She wanted him to learn the hard way. She wanted him to love her for what she was, not to make her someone he would love. She didn't know her expression had gone serious for he looked at her seriously asking her if she was okay.

She nodded and forced a smile. He could say it was forced. He wanted to hold her and hug her right now. But, he did not want her to think that everything between them had to be physical. But, he would make her realise that the physical intimacy was also a reflection of what the heart held.

"Anika?"

"Hmm!" She said leaping out of her thoughts.

"Are you sure this is what you want?"

Without think she nodded in a yes. He smiled.

He bent forward and her breath was caught. He placed his palms on the door, all that kept them apart was a thick layer of air. Placing his forehead against the door, he spoke, "Get ready to fall in love again!" Hurriedly he left blowing a kiss in air, she hadn't said he could not blow kisses at her. Once the lift's door closed she exhaled deeply. She had already fallen. Jeez, where was this heading? But, whatever, she wouldn't give in easy. Because he broke what he got easily!

* * *

That night she sat smiling unnecessarily eyeing her phone. Would he call? Wasn't he missing her, like she was? She had never felt this kind of feelings. She had seen it in movies, the restlessness. But never thought it could be so real. Her phone beeped. Strange! Was he still hearing her thoughts? Wait. Is that even possible?

She took her phone. There was an idiot, but not the one she expected. Vikram! The man was still stuck in that brooch. Mad Man! She ignored the message and went back to the magazine. Oh she was going to screw him the following day for irking his boss! She saw her phone. Omkara?

Surprised she read his message. Jeez! She had forgotten about Gauri! Omkara's NRI girlfriend.

Hey Anika

Free tomorrow? Gauri wants to meet you all. Blue Chancery Club at 8 pm? Can you make it? "

Hi Om,

Sure. I m waiting to meet her!

She is excited as well!

One of us will pick you up. Okay?

Anika stared at the message. He could have said I will pick you up, but instead said one of us! "Mr.SSO I know you very well!" She said looking at the screen. Now what should she say? She was so excited to meet Gauri. To add Omkara had been sceptic whether she would be approved by the elders of the family. She was a very free-minded woman just like Om. One of the many reasons why Om wanted his Bhaabhi to get well along with his lady love. Hell to their Bhaiya, being the Bhaabhi was more important.

Don't worry Om. I will be there. Good night. Just make sure Maa took her medicines. She forgets every time. Take care . Good Night!

"I told you Shivaay, Bhabhi is smart!"Om remarked snatching away his phone from Shivaay's hand.

"You are on my side or hers? Don't you guys want her to come back? " spoke an irritated Shivaay.

"We are confused about the first and sure about the second!" Rudra commented as he lazed on Om's bed.

"Get off my bed Rudra!" Omkara scoffed.

"A few days, is all I have. Then this room will be Bhaab's!"

Omkara smiled. Shivaay smirked as an idea hit.

"But sadly Om, you won't be married until Anika comes back. " Shivaay showed sympathy to Om tapping his back.

"Wait. What? How are the two related?" Om asked dreaded. Staying away from Gauri was practically next to impossible. She was very much willing to take their relationship to next level before being married. But, there Om was stuck. He wanted the marriage first. He wanted to make his life follow a perfect order. Not screw up like before.

" it's evident Om. You think Daadi will be okay to welcome the second daughter-in-law without the first coming back! Tch tch!" Shivaay bit his lip in amusement.

"I hate you!" Omkara spoke in frustration.

"Hate you too, Om!" Shivaay laughed hugging his brother, understanding that Om was on his side already!

"Guys?" Rudra looked crestfallen not invited for the hug.

"Go to your what was that, Bhaabhi!" Shivaay said with attitude.

"This is cheating. This is blackmail. What has three months with Tia done to you Bhaiya! Chii!" He said melodramatically.

" Shut up Rudra!" The angry man's frustration was back.

Omkara and Shivaah looked at each other and then scrambled on the bed tickling their younger brother as he shouted for help.

* * *

Sleep was away for Shivaay. He was going through their wedding photos on his laptop instead of working. "Come back soon!" He whispered looking at her photograph. She looked so happy in the pictures of the reception. Despite the fact that day was perhaps the most tiring day of her life. She would be the first woman who had made all the arrangements by herself for her own wedding. Well, they had not the slightest clue of fate's plan. Oh, plan reminded him, tomorrow would be a happening day. He smirked. "Habits die hard Anika!" Winking at her photo he prepared to sleep.

* * *

"Riya isn't in town so we will split her work." She spoke to the team. "It's Disha Khaana's wedding, everything should be perfect. Each design. Please keep margins in all dresses. Last minute alterations always pop up."

She turned to look at Vikram. "Can we leave?" He asked for the third time.

She looked at him apologetically. "Yes"

They were driving over when yet again he asked about the brooch. Anika gave him Shivaay's number and asked him to contact him directly for the information. Seeing Vikram zip his mouth she almost chuckled. Everyone was afraid of her Baagad Billa! Her? No No. Whatever.

* * *

The loud music was baring from the building. Omkara was leading her in to the bar come restaurant of the Club. Anika was hesitant. She knew the blue-eyed man was going to cook something. So be it. She was not backing off. She was in fact going make it hard. She was dressed in a gorgeous royal blue top with jeans torn at knees. The top had long cuts on the sleeves that exposed her wheat-colored skin. Her eye make up done perfectly. How would he not touch her? She smirked.

Once inside the place, Anika looked around. Her discomfort began. She hated such places. Anyways for Om. She followed Omkara to the side table. Rudra and Saumya were there fighting about something. She beamed looking at them cutely fighting. While Om pulled a girl shorter than her and made her stand before Anika, with his hands placed on her shoulder. The two made a great couple, she noticed at once. "Bhaabhi meet Gauri." He said simpering at the shorter woman with beautiful doe shaped eyes.

"Gauri meet Bhaabhi!" He said looking at Anika.

Anika hugged her. "Om is a bad poet, you are way beautiful than he describes you in his poems!" Anika remarked cheesily. Omkara smirked mouthing a thank you to Anika. While Gauri blushed, looking down.

Anika glanced around. Where was the person she had been waiting to see? Soon they all sat around the table by the wall, everyone updating her about everything, while Omkara was whispering something to Gauri. Anika was wanting someone to mention his name. It did not happen. Where was he? She could not even ask for him. Ahhh. What if he was never going to come? Oh no. She had made up her mind and put all efforts for nothing. She never considered this possibility.

Here is the update for today! This time suits me better. Henceforth, I will not be updating in the evenings, mostly.

Who is leading the scoreboard according to you? ;)

-Anami!

Note: This picture below, does not belong to me. This is used for noncommercial purpose. Just to give the readers an idea of the place.

Anika was a little disappointed. But soon her disappointment faded in the company of the beautiful people. He frowned looking at her from a distance. Give her his family and she'd be happy! What about him? He was jealous of them all. She spoke so jauntily, slapping her hand on their shoulder and laughing. But for him - Don't touch! He looked at her lips as they were whispering something into Saumya's ear and then Gauri's . Even he wanted to hear! Not fair. He smirked. He was SSO after all. Running his hand on his hair, he clicked on his phone. Almost instantly two screens flashed on the table. His two brothers' mobiles. Om quickly looked at it and so did Rudra.

"Hey Gauri, let's dance?"Om asked looking at her. Gauri looked pleasantly surprised. Omkara was asking her for a dance? He had said he would stay away until the wedding. She eyed him and twitched her brows in interest and curiosity. Om gulped. Death was on way.

Anika smiled sweetly as the two walked away to the dance floor. She turned her attention to Rudra and Saumya. What are they arguing about? Who dances better? Where did that debate come in from? Trying to focus she picked up her glass sipping from it. In a minute or so the two had drifted to the stage. What? Rudra with Saumya? Woah! She stared at her screen sighing. Boredom made way. Where was he? No. She did not care, if he did not.

"Hey!" Rang a familiar voice in her ears. Anika instantly had butterflies in her stomach. No. She reminded herself. Don't look up. If you look up you smile. If you smile, he gets upper hand. Then the control gets into his hand. No. Okay I will look up but not smile. A dead stare that's all. Great thinking Anika. She looked up.

He looked charming with those ever beautiful eyes looking at her with love. She blinked and then looked back at her screen. No smiling!

He simpered sitting beside her. Now which line had he finalized on with Rudra? He did a quick revision.

"Do you have a pencil? Cause I want to erase your past and write our future." He said with a coy smile.

Anika looked up amused and bewildered. What got into him?

"I don't! Have a pencil." She said holding her smile inside.

Phat the wuck! What after this? Rudra never prepared him to reply after getting such a response! Damn! He looked around, let me try the next. Yeah!

"Do I know you?" He turned to her again. Anika tried hard to hold her laughter. This man was sure mad!

She looked up nodding in a no.

He gave yet another coy smile, "Cause you look a lot like my next girlfriend."

Anika's eyes almost popped out of her sockets. She thee her head back and laughed pointing a finger at him. For a minute he was baffled. Did he look funny or something? He touched his face to make sure there was nothing on it. He frowned looking at her. She was now blushing and laughing both. He was lost! His hand was now on the couch's head rest and the other on the table. He turned towards her. She looked beautiful!

Without wasting a second he, dragged his hand to her hair and pulled her face closer. He smashed his lips on hers and bent into her face. Her lips felt so good. He felt home. His other hand slowly made to her face as well. He wanted to deepen the kiss.

Her snaps brought him out of his wild imagination. She had a reddish hue on her cheek. Like she knew what he head been thinking about. He looked at his hands they were still very far from her. Oh, God, she would make him mad,literally mad.

Shivaay turned away. She had freaking dressed in his favorite! All he wanted was to graze her arms through that slit on her sleeves. Run his fingers through her straight hair. Kiss her lips and pull her to himself. Suddenly her words made way to his head, "Shivaay it's not love, you are just attracted to me, fatally! It was never love!" His expression changed, as his heart pained. He loved her, loved her very much. Putting up a cheerful smile he looked at her again.

"Lost?" She asked reading his face.

"..hmmm...in you. You must be the square root of two. Cause I feel irrational around you." he remembered this one well it had to do with math after all.

She blinked at him. How many pick up lines had he learnt? Why was he trying all the lines? Inexperienced of course, she reminded herself. Surely Rudra had trained him. She smiled covering her face casually. What did the last one mean anyway? Square of two? Wait square root of two? Did two have a square root?

He saw her baffled face trying to figure out or register what he said. Fish! Why did he say that to her? He would have been mpressed if someone said that to him. But, trying that on Anika was a blunder!

" Sorry!" He said grimly, picking her glass and sipping from it. Unknown to the fact that it was her glass.

"That was my glass, Mr. Whoever."

He ate up the urge to glare at her for saying that.

"Shivaay. Shivaay Singh Oberoi. " He extended his hand, hoping she would shake hands. She smiled finally seeing his desperation. He flashed his own charming smile. The aww moment was broken by her phone's loud ringtone. He looked grumpily, who was that idiot. Vikram!

Anika excused herself and went out. Shivaay gulped the remaining juice in one shot, angrily. He was trying to do anything and everything to win her heart and there she was going away to talk to Vikram. Was he not her priority? Where was that Anika who would ignore all her calls and listen to him first? In fact he would chide her for ignoring calls like that.

He called for the waiter, and ordered his drink. His charming face was now an angry frustrated rock. She came back and looked at him. She frowned seeing the color of his face.

He gave her one sharp look and her assumption was confirmed. He was angry.

He sat staring away though seeing nothing in particular. He did not like this a bit. He barley got any time with her and that also she wasted talking to someone else. If he was being possessive cranky he did not care. It was frustrating to not have ever with him. She was no where there in his mornings , in his nights, or his day! He wanted to spend every moment of his life with her. She was his wife!

He deserved her time. He had a right to her time. He had a right to be upset. That's where it all got intricate. He did not have the rights on her! She took it back, the right of being her husband. He did look at her again as she sat on the couch still more away this time. She was cross. He could say. Let her be. Even he was angry. The two looked up when the waiter brought his drinks. Anika looked at them through the corner of her eyes. She then made a face of disapproval and looked back, away, anywhere.

Shivaay clenched his jaw muscles. Her look said clearly, she did not want him to drink. Hell to her wish, he would follow his. He took the bottle and was opening it when she looked at him once again. He did not see, but he knew she was looking. "Take it back!" He gave the bottle away irked. Still not looking at her, he folded his hands and simply sat. Her heart felt good. He understood. How could she say he was not in love? He was. He was trying everything. But, he was being a jerk as well! Her mind warned.

Omkara had noticed, the sudden tension between the two. He indicated Rudra. All of them made ttheir way back to the table. While Shivaay greeted all of them, suddenly Gauri went on to touch his feet. He freaked out, while others looked on shocked. Slowly laughter filled the room as Gauri explained, to everyone how Rudra had told her Shivaay was very particular about traditions.Shivaay flared his nostrils glaring at Rudra. His expression eased when he heard her innocent laughter. He turned to her, she grew conscious and turned away. Smiling he looked back at Gauri.

Scoreboard, please?

Any suggestions?

-Anami!

Saumya instead of sitting on the couch where Rudra sat, asked Anika to scoot. Anika smiled and slid on her seat, closer to him. He looked at her as her as in haste her hand just touched his thigh. She diverted her gaze away. They were already married and knew every inch of each other, but still the sparks!? She exhaled. When would the dinner end? Hopefully before she was roasted by the heat that was now between them.

Omkara, quickly got up and sat beside Rudra. Gauri was a terrible tease. Gauri smirked. Each of the three couples were so lost in battles of their own that they clearly failed to note the other's.

Shivaay had a hard time. Her unintentional touch had put him at the edge. Like his thoughts weren't enough. He kept himself engaged in talking to his brothers. Omkara and Gauri were narrating how they had met in London. Shivaay was listening but feeling the tension beside him. It was hard not to put his hand on her thighs. When he had simply casually looked down he had noted her torn jeans. He could swear she dressed up this way on purpose. Why should he remain behind? He opened his coats button tossing it backwards, next he loosened his first button of his shirt as naturally as possible.

Anika paid heed to ever small action. Darn, the man! She started an engaging conversation with Saumya. Looking away was much easier now. Even when they ate, he kept making patterns on the table with his left, while his eyes were on his brothers and Gauri. She gulped. He did it on purpose she knew! This was harder than she had accounted for.

* * *

Anika refused dessert, she was already full. So did Saumya. Few minutes later the latter suggested they go outside and have kulfi, the former couldn't deny.

Shivaay looked at her as she got up to leave.

"See you all outside!" She glanced at his brothers and then Gauri. She knew he was waiting. Let him wait! She did not turn. He sighed inaudibly, then turning to Rudra asked him to follow them.

"They aren't kids. Beside no one will attack Sumo, and Anika Bhabhi has her ways." Rudra received a glare for saying that. Obeying his brother he left behind them. Gauri smiled at Shivaay then Om. Om gulped, wishing Shivaay had asked him to go with them.

***

Once outside. Rudra offered to drop Anika. There were two cars. One in which the four had come and the other which Shivaay came in. He asked Shivaay for the keys, which he denied. It was then decided Rudra would accompany Shivaay &Anika. While Saumya would accompany Omkara to drop Gauri. Everything was perfect, when Rudra scrambled on to the back seat, leaving Anika to get into the passenger seat beside Shivaay. He smirked. He was still annoyed at her for picking up that call and she on him for being such an angry man. Oh, but how hard he had tried to do what he would have never. He had practically played goofy without caring for his pseudo ego he had around her. She smiled as she turned to pull the belt.

Suddenly, Rudra exclaimed something none of the two caught. He got off the car and walked to the other, after saying he had a few things to tell Gauri he had forgotten. Shivaay smiled and waved pressing the accelerator. She looked confused, was this planned?

The car pulled before her apartment. He looked at her.

She looked at him. None had anything to say except they didn't want to part. He waited. She waited. No one said anything.

"You look beautiful today!"

She smiled and turned at him. "Your complicated and amusing lines exhausted?"

He chuckled looking at her. "I tried!"

"Not well enough!" She spoke musing.

"How can I forget everything and take you to be a stranger, my heart does not allow!" He said tilting his head looking at her.

She laid her head behind on the seat, not turning to him, "Tell your mind then!"

His smile disappeared. That was a clear taunt. "Good night!" He looked away, outside.

She frowned. The man and his endless ego! So he wouldn't even accompany her till the door. Fine. She walked away without responding to his good night. She was giving him a chance or was he doing her a favor, wooing her? "Hate you Mr. SSO!"she muttered on her way.

He looked at her as she walked away. There was no way he could leave her if he went till the door. He did not want to complicate already complex things. He did not want to think, that he was attracted to her and just that. He loved her as well. Loved her so much.

Once he saw the light from her window. He drove back. He had to eliminate this distance between them. Before she became used to it. He couldn't afford the distance. No.

* * *

The morning bell got her startled. Who could it be? The maid had taken an off. Percase the Maid changed her mind! She opened the door to welcome his charming smile. Was she day dreaming? No. He was there for real.

"Hello, Darling! " he spoke in his enrapturing voice.

Her eyelids flickered. What had brought him to her door, first thing in the morning? Her mind thought. Love did! Her heart answered dreamily and then fluttered as usual. It always did when he found endearing ways to address her!

"Mind if I come in?"he asked.

" Hmm.." She stepped away staring at the covers in his hand.

"Get ready! Mom, asked me to give you this. Oh yes, this letter too!" He quickly put the hand bags on the couch and handed her the letter. She looked at him suspiciously.

"Oh. Yes. Gauri and her family are coming over. If things go well , which mostly will. We will have their Roka -temporary engagement, done." He chirped happily. He was no way going to let Omkara wait because of his deeds. He had convinced all the elders at home. He was sure they'd accept her too, just like they had accepted Anika.

She opened the letter and read it. Pinky had written down all the instructions for her. The last few lines caught her heart. It said if she did not want to perform the duties of the daughter in law, she would still be her daughter and that Pinky was with her in every decision she took. Anika had tears shining in her eyes. She wanted to hug her right away. The entire family had this feature. Of being extremely adorable and understanding. Even him. He looked at her with a frown. What made her cry now? What had his mother written, and more forbidden him to read? Ahh, confusing, yet two most important women his life.

"Are you okay? Did mom threaten you or something?" He asked trying to make her smile.

"She is not you!"

He looked down slightly hurt. Anika smacked herself mentally. That was mean of her. She walked up to him. "Did you read this?"

" I swear I didn't. " he said gazing at her. Why was she coming so close?

"Until yesterday, you look like my next girlfriend and today, back to making me your wife?" She looked playfully into his eyes. He could not help but draw up that curve on his face.

"Both ways I am helpless!" He pressed his lips together to hold his smile from becoming wide.

She blushed slightly.

God why was she so close. He tried not to look at her lips. How could he not lock his arms around her waist as she spoke? Wait-Where were his hands? Oh, right beside him. He slowly took them behind his back. Couldn't trust them with her around.

She tried hard not to giggle and bit her tongue inside her mouth. He was extremely adorable, Billu Ji!

She bent forward, making no contact whatsoever, whispered in his ears, she would be back. Picking up the bags she went inside, smiling at her own move. Poor him, what was he not doing to win her? Maybe she should... No. Her mind intervened.

His face was glowing ever since she disappeared inside. She sure knew how to tackle him. A blush came up on his face, unknown to himself. Why did he feel like a love-sick teenager? She was his wife, not his crush! Well, he wouldn't mind calling her that! He sank on the couch. His Mrs. would sure take some time.

-------------------------------------

Now we head to battle ground!

Don't forget to like and share your thoughts!

-Anami!

More than thirty minutes later she came out of the room. He looked up the minute he heard the door. God had no plan to have mercy on this wifeless man!

She looked extremely pretty in the shimmering sleeveless blouse paired with simple embroidered lehenga and the duppatta put around her in a royal manner making her dress resemble a saree. Her hair was held into a princess bun, messy and hair strands dropping on the sides. The hair stick she used was a piece of art in itself. How had he not noted his wife's intrinsic taste in art? Of course, he was busy noticing her an, art by God himself.

Was he planning something? Hell, it was all out of his brain the minute he lay his eyes on her. Everything, everyone, all could be forgotten. All he knew was his wife was looking gorgeous enough for him to drool at her till night.

"I thought, we are expected to be at home before, Gauri's family?" She said when he did nothing but stared at her. She knew that look. She was already blushing hard. She honestly could not help that. The color and the heat were uncontrollable when he was around.

"Yeah!" He moved his eyes away, embarrassed a little bit.

"Huh?" He asked clearly not registering anything.

She smiled. "So..."

"Oh yeah.."

"You want to take the glass as well?" She asked eyeing the glass in his hand.

"Oh No." He spoke absentmindedly. She giggled moving after him.

The drive was silent at first. Until she spoke. "So .."

"Nothing!" He said quickly, turning on the radio. She gaped in surprise. He hated it, radio! Oh my God, he was doing that for her! She looked away to not let him witness that joy on her face. He looked away a mysterious smile making to his face as he glanced side wards on his mobile phone screen.

A few seconds later, the voice of Love Angel was heard. "This is a request from a husband to his wife, anonymous one. He says his wife is upset and he wants her to know no matter what he will always love her and will as far as she wants him to win her heart again. Aww...Mr Husband, we are sure your Mrs. Will forgive you soon and love you back. So this song is dedicated to the special Mrs. Wait, he also texts, that she is looking extremely pretty today like she does everyday, and that he will always love her no matter what! Awww...Okay Mrs to this adorable man who has fallen so hard for you, if you love him too then he deserves a kiss of love! The next song is only for you, from him!"

The music started. A beautiful song, " Hey Shona!"

[YOUTUBE]https://youtu.be/uQqkbHfEPho[/YOUTUBE]

Anika was glowing and still that reddish hue was up her cheeks. The two heard the radio jockey very intently. She did not have to cross check to know it was him. She just knew. She colored up at the last part of the voice's request. Kiss of love? He turned the volume a notch higher. She smiled shyly not able to meet his eyes.

He smiled like a Cheshire cat, seeing her smile like that. He was taken back their days after marriage. The minute he held her hand and pulled her close, she would blush profusely. Here, she was blushing like that without even looking at him. Oh, she was a mystery at times, that he swore could kill him with curiosity.

* * *

She got off the car, and walked toward the entrance without waiting for him. She knew he'd be annoyed. Once when she had done that, he had lost his temper and she had to make it up to him. She did not know whether she was testing his love or his patience. Latter, her heart went with. He always lost his patience too soon when it came to her. For others he had all the patience in the world. She was pleasantly surprised when he caught up with her and asked her too quickly move behind the pillar.

Her eyes slowly grew wide. What was he up to now?

She stood behind the pillar and he stood close behind her, making no contact whatsoever. "What?" She asked.

"Shhh" he whispered, admiring her almond shaped eyes.

"Shivaay!" She gazed up at him. His eyes now rested on her lips.

He could clearly feel, how much she wanted to feel his lips against hers. She would not admit, but her slightly parted lips and lazy breaths were a give away.

"Shhh.. Look there!" He said looking beyond the pillar where stood two love birds.

Anika gaped at the scene. Gauri looking all pretty in a saree, had her arms around Omkara's neck, who was bagged down to lean over her. The two were smiling and having a conversation.

"Oh bete ki!" Anika pivoted her head backward. He hushed her and smiled. " If you would have walked in, you would have spoilt there moment. No one knows better than us that frustration! " Now Anika's eyes grew wide as she gaped at him." I was never, frustrated!" She muttered softly turning her head back.

He stared at her shoulder. Taking his lips close still not touching whispered, "You were, your every bit was frustrated."

She froze. How long could she avoid this intensity that wanted her to kiss him and show how frustrated she was! He was a fatal threat to her sanity. She looked back at him. Was he touching her? No. Only his breath was. Great, by the touch of his breath she was loosing her sanity. God keep grace on her when he actually touched her. Oh, now she wanted his touch!

"Okay what do you think is happening there?"

"Chi. How am I supposed to know?" She turned fully back giving them the privacy they thought they had.

He kept one hand on the pillar and stared at her. "I bet on it, they will kiss!"

Anika's mouth grew into the perfect O. "No. They won't. Certainly not here. Besides they..." Damn. What was she about to say! Like she and him were married when they first kissed. He chuckled silently as though reading her mind. She frowned growing red at her stupidity and his expression. Had she said it already?

"They aren't!" She cleared her mind with that statement and diverted his attention.

His quick thinking was working. "OK bet. If I win, you are shifting back to the mansion!"

She peered into his eyes. The longing evident.

Oh no! The smart cat was up again. "If I win?"

"What else do you want me to not do?" His dumbfounding was easybto make out.

She gave a stupid smile. "Let's save that for later."

"Hey, that's not fair. When Shivaay Singh Oberoi enters a deal he makes sure it has a sound ground and conditions."

"Good for you, then no deal."

"Okay okay deal!" He said looking behind her at the couple.

Anika turned quickly. Shivaay was tempted to pull that hair stick and let her hair loose. Keeping his thoughts on silent mode he diverted his attention back. Praying that they kissed.

Anika's brow curved higher and higher, as Gauri went on her toes and inched her lips closer to Om's. She screwed her eyes shut. Jeez, No! Anima think something. She sighed. In the next second she dashed forward calling out the servant's name loudly. Shivaay stared baffled and startled. What? What did she just do? Cheating!

Omkara and Gauri pulled away immediately. Om looked away as though just realising the pillars of his home were beautifully carved.

Anika felt awkward but pretended as though she had seen nothing. Gauri had pinkish hue on her cheeks. Anika greeted her and hugged her. She gave Om a side hug and cheerfully started a conversation.

Shivaay gently hit his head on the pillar. Why!

He finally walked over and put his hand over Om's shoulder. Couldn't he be faster!

Giving Anika a stern face he walked ahead with Om. Anika followed along with Gauri, smiling. She was so loving irritating him. The bill would come soon, little she knew.

* * *

The family was needless to say very happy. Anika's presence was always infectious. To add to the cheer there was an equally jaunty Gauri. While Om sat rather solemn, hoping Gauri would not say or do something that made the family gasp in horror. She had already winked at him twice, secretly though. He did not make an eye contact whatsoever.

The arrangement succeeded. The Roka was decided to be held three hours later. Anika quickly went around offering sweets. She made everyone eat it from her hands. While Jaanvi took Gauri's parents to the guest room. She cane to him and her hand stopped mid way. The entire family stared. She extended the box to him instead. He looked into her eyes. She felt so bad for doing that, he was so crestfallen.

Rudra narrowed his eyes. In one quick move he took Anika's hand and dragged it to Shivaay's mouth. Shivaay simpering, ate quickly from it. While the family members clapped, Anika blushed and walked away. A smiling Pinky saw the happy smile on his son's face.

Walking behind Anika she left.

* * *

Anika was feeling elated. It was so good to be back home. She had been instructed to fetch a few things from the store room. Happily singing the song he had dedicated to her she walked to the store room. She was loving this Romeo side of him!

What did she not love?

--------------------------------

Scores please, I lost track!

Any guesses of what is coming?

Any suggestions to Mr.Husband!?

-Anami!