In the vibrant city of Jaipur, a secret deal was struck between two worlds. Abhimaan Deep Shekhawat, the enigmatic King of Rajasthan, controlled the political and criminal underworld with an iron fist. His power was unmatched, his influence unparall...
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I woke up feeling refreshed and free, finally done with my exhausting exams. The sense of relief was so profound that it felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. After a relaxing bath, I slipped into comfortable clothes and made my way downstairs to the palace’s living room, where the air was warm with the scent of breakfast.
Maa was busy directing the maids as they prepared the morning meal, her voice calm yet firm, ensuring everything was perfect for the family. Papa stepped out of his room, looking fresh and ready for the day, his presence commanding but comforting. I couldn’t help myself—I ran to him, wrapping my arms around his waist in a spontaneous hug. "Good morning, Papa! Daughter hugs!" I said playfully, squeezing him tight.
He chuckled, returning my hug with the same affection. "Good morning, beta," he replied, his voice warm. The simple exchange filled me with joy. We stood there for a few minutes, chatting with Maa, discussing everything from breakfast to the palace’s affairs. It felt like the calm after a storm, the chaos of my exams finally behind me.
Just as the conversation began to flow, I felt a familiar presence. Abhimaan entered the room, fresh from his workout, his body still radiating the energy of his morning routine. His eyes found mine almost instantly, and the way they lit up made my heart skip a beat. I could tell he was pleased to see me finally free from the stress of my exams.
"Good morning, everyone," he greeted, his deep voice filling the room with ease. As he passed by me on his way upstairs, he deliberately slowed his pace, brushing his fingers lightly against my back. It was a fleeting touch, but it sent a shiver down my spine, igniting a flutter in my chest.
I glanced up at him, trying to remain composed, but he caught my eye, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. My cheeks flushed instantly, and I quickly looked away, trying to hide the effect he had on me. But I knew he had done it on purpose, his way of silently saying, "I’ve missed you."
Breakfast soon followed, the family gathered around the table, the air filled with light conversation. I was enjoying myself until a sudden, sharp sensation hit my throat—a piece of food had lodged itself, and I began to choke, my breath hitching in panic. Before I could react further, Abhimaan, seated next to me, noticed my distress.
Without drawing attention, he placed a firm but gentle hand on my thigh, his fingers moving in slow, soothing circles. The intimate touch calmed my rising panic, the food dislodging as my breathing steadied. But his hand lingered, his fingers continuing to trace patterns on my skin in a way that was far from innocent.
I tried to focus on the ongoing conversation, but my attention was entirely on Abhimaan, who seemed to be playing his own game. His eyes met mine, holding a mix of concern and something far more playful. The connection between us was electric, even in the midst of a family breakfast, and it didn’t go unnoticed by me.
As breakfast came to a close, Abhimaan pushed back his chair, glancing at me with a charming smile. "I’ve got to head to the office, but some company would make the day more interesting."
Maa, overhearing him, was quick to encourage. "Go with him, beta. Your father and I have everything under control here. We’ll handle the wedding preparations."
I hesitated, but the playful glint in Abhimaan’s eyes made the decision for me. "Okay, I’ll go," I agreed, trying to sound casual, though my heart was racing.
We strolled through the palace gardens, the morning air crisp and refreshing. I took in the sight of blooming flowers and the peaceful atmosphere, grateful for the break. Abhimaan, ever the gentleman, offered me his arm as we walked, and I accepted it, feeling a sense of elegance as we made our way toward his car.
Once out of sight, I turned to him with a teasing grin. "I’ll only go with you if you promise to behave and not distract me."
He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by my challenge. Leaning in close, his warm breath tickled my ear. "What makes you think I’d distract you, Jaana?" he whispered, his voice deep and enticing.
A shiver ran down my spine, but I managed to maintain my composure, though my voice was a little breathless. "Because I know you, Abhimaan. You have a way of making me forget everything else."
He laughed softly, his eyes sparkling. "You make me want to be a better man, but I promise, I’ll be on my best behavior... for now."
We made our way to his office, where the staff greeted us with congratulations. Their warm smiles and best wishes were directed at both of us, though I could sense their curiosity. It wasn’t every day that the stoic and focused Abhimaan brought someone into his life so openly. Kevin, his trusted assistant, approached us with a broad grin, congratulating us as if we were family. Abhimaan responded graciously, but I could see the silent bond between them—a mutual understanding of loyalty and trust.
As we settled into his office, Abhimaan leaned back in his chair, his eyes still gleaming with that familiar mischief. "If you want to take a break or...," he paused, his tone suggestive, "you know, rest, the office bedroom is always available."
I couldn’t help but laugh, though I blushed at his words. "Focus, Abhimaan!" I chided, trying to sound stern.
He chuckled, clearly unrepentant. "I’m always focused, Jaana. Especially when it comes to you."
The rest of the day passed in a whirlwind of work and teasing moments between us, the lines between business and pleasure blurring with every glance and playful exchange. But it wasn’t until later, when we entered the bedroom for a brief rest, that Abhimaan revealed something that left me speechless—a bookshelf filled with my favorite dark romance novels.
I squealed in delight, rushing to the shelf, my heart racing with excitement. "You knew!" I exclaimed, turning to him with a wide grin.
"Of course, I knew. I know everything about you," he replied, his voice low and warm.
I ran to him, wrapping my arms around his neck, filled with gratitude and love. "You’re the best, Abhimaan."
His laughter was soft, but the affection in his eyes was undeniable. "I’m glad you think so, Jaana."
As we prepared to leave for lunch, Abhimaan’s phone rang. I motioned to the car, mouthing that I would wait outside while he handled the call. He nodded, already deep in conversation. I walked to the car, settling into the passenger seat, my mind still swirling with the events of the day.
