Her Nightmare | 18+

|| Chapter 37 ||

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PARINIDHI

I ventured into the bustling kitchen, where a member of the staff approached with a respectful inquiry. "Ma'am, is there anything you need?"

A subtle shift in the kitchen staff's demeanor had caught my attention over the past few days. The disdainful glances and hushed mutterings that once greeted me had faded, though respect was still a distant goal. For now, I found solace in the reduction of overt disrespect.

"I'll be making Devansh's birthday cake myself," I announced with calm determination.

My declaration hung in the air, met with palpable tension and surprised, furtive glances from the staff. They were clearly aware of the issues between Devansh and me, but their opinions were of no concern to me. My focus was solely on crafting the perfect birthday cake for my husband.

"Ma'am, shouldn't Sir's birthday cake be ordered from outside?" one staff member suggested, but I cut her off, asserting, "There's no need to order a cake. I want to make it myself, and I hope there are no objections."

My irritation was evident, and the staff member nodded, retreating as I took charge of the kitchen.

As the staff filed out, I noticed Devansh leaning casually against the kitchen entrance, a smile playing on his lips. The urge to wipe that smile off his face was strong, but I restrained myself, reminding myself that our little showdown was just beginning.

I leaned against the kitchen counter, watching Devansh with a blend of amusement and defiance. His startled expression, marked by rapid blinks, revealed his shock at my presence.

"You've been quite the strategist, Devansh," I mused silently. "Always changing tactics to keep me on edge. Well, now it's my turn to keep you guessing. Consider this a taste of your own medicine."

Devansh, bewildered, extended his hand toward me, his smile fading. "Is it really you, Pari?" he asked, attempting to regain his composure. I blinked innocently and nodded, feigning a skillful innocence I had rarely used.

His disbelief was evident as he inched closer, aiming to caress my cheek. I swiftly swatted his hand away, stepping back. "Devansh, just because it's your birthday and I'm making an effort doesn't mean you get to overstep your boundaries, a habit you've always had," I said firmly.

His countenance fell, his gaze dropping to the floor. "Pari, I apologize if my touch isn't welcome."

I scoffed at his belated apology. "Don't you think you're a bit tardy in realizing that?"

Devansh's eyes probed mine, searching for the source of my anger. I knew I had to control my rising emotions before they disrupted my plans. Taking a deep breath, I quelled the storm within.

"Devansh, please leave. I need to focus on baking the cake and require complete privacy," I asserted, maintaining steady eye contact.

His response was unexpected, a flicker of hope in his eyes as he asked, "Are you really baking a cake for me?" He looked vulnerable, a rare sight.

I sighed wearily, battling conflicting emotions, and finally conceded, "Yes, now please go." His eager nod and smile only added to my inner turmoil as he exited.

As he left, a pang of guilt struck me. Was it fair to subject him to this on his birthday? I wrestled with my conscience but remained resolute. "He doesn't deserve my sympathy. He never showed any to me," I reminded myself, steeling my resolve.

I dove into my work, meticulously arranging ingredients on the counter for my baking venture.

"Di, I brought what you asked for," Rahul's voice echoed as he entered the kitchen, bag in hand.