Destiny For Unlikely Vows

Chapter 19.

Once the housekeeper left, a wave of exhaustion washed over me. I had been awake for over twelve hours straight, but I couldn't collapse just yet. I unpacked the essentials first-my comfortable clothes and a stash of snacks. I'd made sure to pack a few things just in case, like my electric kettle and a packet of Maggi noodles. Who knew what kind of food I'd find here, and I needed something familiar.

I grabbed my toiletries and headed for the bathroom, eager for a hot shower. Despite it being July, the evening air was cool and refreshing-a welcome contrast to the stifling heat back home. The water relaxed me, easing away the day's travel and nervous energy. I changed into soft camisole and cotton shorts, admittedly shorter than usual, but I needed to be comfortable to sleep. As I dried my hair, I felt a sense of calm settle in. I applied some moisturizer to my face and lotion to my arms and legs, savoring the routine, hoping it would help me feel more at home.

After glancing at the bedside table, I noticed a water bottle-thank goodness. I hadn't eaten or drunk much all day. Setting up my electric kettle, I made myself a small bowl of noodles and ate quietly, savoring the simple comfort. The thought crossed my mind that I'd brought utensils, not knowing how long I'd be here or if I'd end up needing my own things in a place of my own. I quickly rinsed out the kettle and decided I'd wash it properly in the morning.

I noticed a large window and realized it led to a balcony. Curious, I stepped outside. A gentle breeze greeted me, sweeping across my face. Paris looked hauntingly beautiful in the early morning light, with its quiet streets and soft glimmers of light from distant windows. I couldn't help but feel a pang of fear-*How am I going to survive here?* I didn't speak the language, didn't know anyone except him, and felt utterly alone.

Just as I was lost in thought, I felt someone's gaze on me. A strange prickle of awareness ran down my spine. Turning slowly, I saw a figure on the balcony next to mine. My heart nearly stopped-it was Agastya, casually leaning against the railing, his arms crossed. He was shirtless, his muscular frame highlighted in the dim light, his gaze fixed on me. He didn't blink, didn't move, just stared.

My pulse quickened. *Why is he looking at me like that?* I felt exposed, acutely aware of my barely-there outfit. Without thinking, I ducked back into my room, my heart pounding. But before I could lock the door, he was already there, striding into my room uninvited, closing the distance between us in a few long steps.

"What are you wearing?" he murmured, his voice low, his eyes trailing over me with an intensity that left me breathless.

I realized with a shock that I was only in my camisole and shorts, barely dressed and vulnerable in every way. Before I could process, he took my hands and pinned me against the wall, his face close to mine, eyes dark and searching. I tried to push him away, but his grip was firm. He leaned in, his lips brushing mine in a rough, unanticipated kiss. I felt a flash of anger surge through me-*How dare he?*

Summoning my strength, I twisted in his hold, raising my knee and striking him hard. He grunted in pain and released me, stumbling back.

"Get out," I shouted, my voice shaking with fury.

He looked at me with a mixture of frustration and something else-something I couldn't quite place. But he didn't argue. He turned sharply and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

I sank onto the edge of the bed, my heart racing, anger and confusion swirling within me. This marriage was nothing but turmoil. The way he treated me-one moment cold, the next possessive-left me reeling. But one thing was clear: I wasn't going to let him control me.
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