Layers of Us

Chapter 58

The grand reception was in full swing, with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses filling the air.

The ballroom was adorned with glittering chandeliers, and the scent of roses lingered faintly. Guests mingled, and a soft melody played in the background, setting the perfect mood for the evening.

In the middle of the dance floor, Tripura and Ram swayed to the rhythm of the music. His hand was firm on her waist, pulling her close, while his other hand gently held hers. His eyes, filled with adoration, never left hers.

“Wifey,” Ram said with a teasing grin, leaning closer so only she could hear him. “Trust me when I say this — you are looking bewitchingly sexy tonight.”

Tripura chuckled, a faint blush tinting her cheeks. “Mr. Kapoor, behave,” she murmured softly, her tone half - scolding, half - amused.

But Ram was in no mood to behave. “No, wifey,” he whispered huskily, tightening his hold on her waist. “Tonight, I feel like ravishing you.”

Tripura’s breath caught, her eyes widening at his bold words. “Ram!” she scolded softly, glancing around to see if anyone had overheard.
Her cheeks were now flushed crimson, though a part of her couldn’t stop smiling.

“Hmm?” he teased, feigning innocence. Then, without warning, he leaned down and captured her lips in a quick but firm kiss, right in front of the crowd.

Tripura gasped, pulling back slightly, her face burning with embarrassment. “Ram!” she hissed. “Everyone is watching!”

Ram’s cousins, standing nearby, erupted into cheers and wolf whistles, clearly having caught the moment. “Bhai!” one of them called out, laughing. “Control yourself!”

Ram turned to them with a smug grin. “Why should I?” he shot back. “She’s my wife. I can kiss her whenever I want!” He winked, then turned back to Tripura, who was still blushing furiously.

“Ram, seriously, you’re impossible,” she muttered, shaking her head, though a soft smile played on her lips.

“And you love it,” he said smugly, pulling her closer as they swayed again.

Despite the lightheartedness, Tripura’s eyes flickered briefly with pain. She glanced over Ram’s shoulder and saw Vikram standing near the edge of the hall. Without a word, she subtly nodded her head in a silent "yes."

Vikram, understanding the signal, gave her a tight - lipped nod in return before discreetly leaving the room to make a phone call.

Ram, oblivious to the silent exchange, spun her again, bringing her back into his arms. “Having fun?” he asked, his lips brushing against her ear, sending shivers down her spine.

“Of course,” Tripura replied with a small smile. For a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to bask in his warmth, savoring the happiness on his face.

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As the evening continued, Ram found every opportunity to steal kisses from her. During dinner, while Tripura was distracted by the food, he leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her cheek. “Ram!” she whispered furiously, glancing around.

“What?” he asked innocently. “I’m just loving my wife.”

“Behave, Mr. Kapoor,” she scolded, trying to keep her voice firm, but the blush on her face betrayed her.

“No,” he said, his voice low and teasing. “Not tonight. You’re mine, wifey, and I’m making the most of it.”

Tripura’s heart ached as she looked at him. She knew this was likely the last night they would share such closeness.