Together Forever

Chapter 32

Anika's POV

The soft morning light filtered into the room, casting a warm glow on everything around us. As I blinked awake, the first thing I noticed was Uday clinging to me, his arm draped protectively over my waist. His peaceful face was mere inches from mine, and his soft breaths tickled my skin.

For a moment, I simply lay there, taking in the sight of him so close to me. His messy hair, his slightly parted lips, and the faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth it all made my heart swell.

I couldn’t help but reach up and run my fingers gently through his hair. It was soft and messy, and I chuckled quietly at how boyishly adorable he looked.

My gaze shifted to the clock on the bedside table, and my eyes widened slightly. It was 7 a.m. already. I should get up now.

Carefully, I tried to wiggle out of his hold, but he wasn’t budging. His grip tightened around me as if even in his sleep, he knew I was trying to escape.

Sighing, I leaned closer and gently patted his cheek. “Uday,” I whispered softly, “let me go.”

His eyes remained closed, but a low groan escaped his lips. “No, I won’t,” he muttered, his deep, husky morning voice sending shivers down my spine.

Oh god, his voice.

If he told me to jump off a cliff in that voice, I might actually consider it.

I shook my head, trying to refocus. No, I need to get up early. What will his mom think of me if I stay in bed this late? Determined, I gently pushed against his chest.

“Uday, let me go,” I insisted, though my voice lacked any real conviction. “I have to get ready.”

Instead of loosening his hold, he pulled me closer, burying his face in the crook of my neck.

His warm breath against my skin made me shiver, and before I could protest further, he opened his eyes. Those sleepy, half-lidded eyes of his met mine, and I felt my resolve crumble instantly.

“Good morning, my wife,” he murmured, his lips brushing against my cheek in a soft kiss.

I froze, my heart hammering in my chest. Oh god, I must be a blushing mess right now.

“Good morning,” I managed to reply, my voice shaky as I tried to control my racing emotions.

His lips curled into a soft smirk as he studied my face. “Did you sleep well?” he asked, his voice deep and laced with affection.

“Yes, I did,” I replied, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “What about you?”

“Me? Last night was the best sleep of my life because I had you with me,” he said with such sincerity that it made my cheeks burn.

I averted my gaze, feeling the heat crawl up my neck. His words always had this effect on me, and he knew it.

“I love how my words make you blush, Anika,” he teased, leaning closer, his fingers brushing against my cheek.

“Uday,” I murmured, trying to hide my embarrassment, and pushed him lightly on his chest. “That’s enough now. Let me get up.”