Ch 26 - Tempting Shlok
Readers, this part will be a little different. You're going to see a different Astha and Shlok. Anusha16 you wanted something like this? Here you go. Enjoy this journey as well 👍🏼
It had been two weeks since their beach outing. Shlok and Astha got back to being busy. Yet they did see each other in their houses. Shlok was trying to be circumspect of their engaged but frustrated status. He took care not be alone with her for long. He never came too close.
This was irritating Astha beyond reason. For Gods sake they were engaged to be married. It was ok to cuddle and even share a kiss. What was wrong with Shlok? He was treating her as if she was his aunt. Hugh!!! At first she was confused by his behavior. She then understood what he was trying to do.
She tried to coax him out of his shell, tried talking to him. Everything was proving to be useless. He would always change the subject or make sure they were with family. Astha had to take matters in her own hands.
Ria saw Astha in a thoughtful state and asked her what the matter was. Astha told her everything. Ria just gave a cheeky grin and gave her some ideas. Astha laughed thinking Ria was joking, but to her horror she realized her friend was quite serious.
"No Ria. I can't pull this stunt. I don't think so."
"Of course you can. Do what I am saying. You will crack this tough nut."
"Do you really think so?" Astha questioned doubtfully.
"Yes you duffer. Of course. Now lets plan. You will start right from today evening." Ria almost clapped her hand in glee.
That very evening Astha prayed to her favorite Bappa before going about with her plan. She went to Shlok's house and insisted she will help Anjali Ayi. She made them all sit and served dinner. While serving dinner, she wantedly brushed Shlok. He immediately moved his hand away. She took some buttermilk to him in the living room and sat right next to him. Again Shlok quickly drank the liquid and got up.
Shlok was flustered. What was Astha trying to do? He continued what he was doing and pushed away her thoughts.
Astha felt she didn't achieve anything. She did not see any change in his face or expression. She did not lose hope. She refused to be treated like a distant cousin. The very next day Astha prepared his favorite Asparagus in sauce. He had told her it was his most cherished dish while he was in the US. She thanked internet for the recipe and instructions and went about preparing the dish.
Astha took the food next door only to realize Shlok was alone. The others had gone to Sojal's house. Shlok was surprised seeing something in her hand.
"What is in this?"
"You will see. Now come to the dining." She quickly set the table and laid the plate for him.
When she opened the lid Shlok was pleased to see his favorite dish. He sat in the center and she sat by his right. He asked her also to join him. She just took one more spoon and dug in to his plate.
Astha slowly bit on the asparagus taking care to lick the sauce first. Shlok's spoon stopped in mid air. He was just staring at Astha.
"What happened Shlok? Isn't this good?"
"Uh..no. I..I am just having it." He quickly ate the spoonful.
Astha continued to slowly lick and chew the vegetable. She deliberately dropped a few drops of sauce on her lips and licked them off without taking her eyes off his.
Shlok was almost sweating. The cheeky little minx. I know what she is trying to do. But too late, his mind was completely off the food. For all he cared it could have been sawdust that he was eating.
He wanted to quickly finish off whatever was left in the plate and shove her out. Before he could act on his thoughts, Astha sucked one asparagus and closed her eyes. She let out a small moan and asked him "Isn't this good?"
This was it. His control snapped. He got up from the table, pushing the chair down. He quickly went to her and pulled her off her chair. He carried her and took her to the couch.
"Shlok, put me down. I was just trying to..."
He deposited her on the couch and came after her. The kiss was demanding and ferocious. His pent up anger and frustration was evident.
Whatever Astha was expecting, It was not this. She just wanted to tease him out of his polite demeanor. She did not expect this storm to follow. Shlok was demanding entry into her mouth. His grip was tight and his face was immobile, as if carved out of stone.
"Shlok. Stop this right now. You're hurting me. Please."
Shlok raised his face and looked at her. His eyes had darkened in desire. "Next time be careful what you wish for. And don't play with fire. I am trying to be patient for you. As far as you understand that, it will be good for both of us."
Astha felt tears trail down her cheeks. She reached out to touch his arm. He just shrugged her off and went up to his room.
Astha brushed away her tears and went back home. She didn't know what came over her Shlok. Her plan had back fired on her. She supposed she had to go and sort this out with him. Later. She first needed time to pull herself together.
Part 27Edited by ipkkndfollower - 11 years ago
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