KAYAMATH (ON HOLD)

Chapter 31

The car rolled to a smooth stop in front of Milind's sprawling mansion, snapping Panchi out of her whirlwind of thoughts. A mixture of emotions churned within her-curiosity, apprehension, and uncertainty. Milind stepped out first and, with a gentlemanly grace, opened the door for her, his strong hands steadying her as she stepped out.

As she took in the sight of the grand house, Panchi's eyes widened in astonishment. The cream-colored facade gleamed under the soft golden lighting, its ornate details and arched windows exuding an air of timeless elegance. Wrought-iron balconies framed with lush greenery gave it a serene charm, while the wet pavement reflected the warm glow of the lights. It was opulent yet calming.

Panchi thought, How rich is this man? How many houses does he have? Earlier we were in a different house, and now this new one...

Milind led her inside, guiding her through an impeccably furnished foyer that seemed more like a piece of art than a living space. He brought her to a spacious, cozy room prepared just for her. The soft pastel decor, the plush bed, and a vase of fresh flowers by the window made the room feel inviting despite its grandeur.

"Sit here," Milind instructed gently, helping her settle onto the bed. He poured a glass of water and handed her some medicine. "Take this and rest," he said, his tone calm but firm.

Panchi, overwhelmed and unsure, obeyed without question, swallowing the pills and glancing at him uncertainly. She watched as Milind moved toward the door, ready to leave her alone to rest. But something deep inside her urged her to speak.

"Wait..." she said hesitantly.

Milind paused, turning back with a raised eyebrow.

"Who... who are you?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Milind's lips curved into a faint, amused smile, a glint of playfulness in his eyes. "I already told you, Panchi. I'm Milind Mishra. I'm 32 years old, and I-"

"No," she interrupted, shaking her head. "That's not what I meant." Her voice faltered as she searched for the right words. "I mean... who are you? I saw how people were desperate to talk to you, how the media crowded around just to get a glimpse of you. And Pranay Uncle..." She hesitated, recalling his reverence. "He practically worshipped you. Why?"

Leaning against the doorframe, Milind crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. But there was a flicker of pride in his eyes.

"First, my little wife doesn't recognize me, and now she questions my identity," he thought with a small chuckle. Aloud, he said, "I'm Milind Mishra, the owner of MPower Automotive."

The words hit Panchi like a freight train. Her jaw dropped, her eyes growing impossibly wide.

"WHAT?!" she gasped, her voice nearly a shriek. "You're THE Milind Mishra? The industry titan?!"

Milind chuckled softly at her reaction, his tone light. "Yes."

Panchi's breathing quickened as she tried to process the revelation. Panic set in. "Why... why did you marry me?" she stammered. "You're... you're such a big man. You could have married anyone you wanted-a model, an heiress. Why me?"

"Panchi, take a deep breath," Milind coaxed, stepping closer. He placed a hand on her back, rubbing soothing circles. "Relax."

Once her breathing steadied, he continued, his voice low but earnest. "I don't need anyone else. I just need you."

Her cheeks flushed crimson, her heart skipping a beat.

"You don't need to know anything else right now," Milind added, his hands cupping her face. "Just know that I will never harm you. I will always be with you."