Her Only Saviour

9. Not now. Not here

"I hope I didn't ruin your moment, guys?" he asked, that too-casual smirk tugging at his lips.

Well, you did, but whatever.

"No, it's okay," I said, offering a small smile. "But... you here?"

"I just wanted to spend some time with you." Then, turning to the twins, he added, "Rudra, Saisha-can you give us a minute?"

Oh, now you suddenly remember to spend time with me? How convenient.

I crossed my arms. "I thought you were tired... and too busy to talk to me?"

"That's not true, Nandini. I was just... um, forget it. Let's go to my room." He reached out and grabbed my hand, tugging me forward.

Not happening.

I quickly jerked my hand free. "It's okay, Parth. I'm actually loving this garden-let's just talk here." I forced a pleasant smile, ignoring the way my heart pounded with discomfort.

"Fine, sit then." We both settled down on the bench again, just in time to see Saisha rolling her eyes and Rudra sulking off like an annoyed pup.

"So, Nandini..." he began, with that rehearsed softness in his voice. "I'm so glad you're going to be my wife in a few days."

"I know, Parth," I replied quietly, then decided to ask what had been gnawing at me. "But... why have you been ignoring me lately?"

He scoffed lightly. "No, baby. Who told you that? I've just been caught up with work, that's all. Don't stress yourself, darling. I love you." He leaned in slightly. "And don't listen to what others say-they're just jealous of us."

That practiced smile again. But this time, he moved closer.

Uncomfortably close.

I froze as he tried to close the distance between us. His hand reached for mine again.

What the hell?

I stood up abruptly and took a step back, my tone firm now. "Parth, how many times have I told you not to touch me like that before marriage? I'm not comfortable."

His expression darkened.

"Nandini, stop this drama. I'm your to-be husband! What's the big deal if I touch you, huh?" His voice grew harsher. "You act like you're made of glass. Such a fragile little doll."

And then-he grabbed my arm. Hard.

My eyes stung as tears welled up. Before I could even react, he shoved me away with a frustrated scoff and stormed off, leaving me there.

Alone.

Stunned.

For a few seconds, I just stood there, the ache in my arms mirrored by the one in my chest. Then, swallowing the lump in my throat, I wiped the tears from my eyes and slowly made my way back inside-silent and shaken, but trying my best not to fall apart.