Her Deviant Husband

Chapter 52

Athira's pov

I slid into the driver's seat, gripping the wheel tightly as I exhaled slowly. My mind was set, my plan was clear. I had no time to waste. The moment I turned the key, the low rumble of the engine filled the silence of the night, the headlights cutting through the darkness as I pulled toward the exit.

I barely made it ten feet before a figure stepped into my path, blocking the car.

One of Reyansh's men.
Two others flanked the sides, standing rigid, their expressions unreadable—but their intent was clear.

I let out a slow breath, already feeling the irritation simmer beneath my skin. I rolled down the window, letting my gaze flick over them. "Move please." I ordered, my voice calm.

They didn't budge.
"Ma'am, we have orders not to let you leave alone."

Of course they did.

I clenched my jaw.
"I have an urgent meeting."

"It's past midnight," The guy called I think Rohit, deadpanned, eyes narrowing slightly.

"It's a business guys, I think you all know as well. It's not exactly a 9 to 5 job." I replied rather calmly, although my fingers tapped against the wheel impatiently. "Also, I don't have time for this. Move."

The other two exchanged hesitant glances, but Rohit remained firm.
"Sir gave us strict instructions."

"Well, congratulations on being so loyal." I smiled, shifting the car slightly forward so the hood nearly grazed his legs. "Now move before I run over the gate and go myself."

I wasn't bluffing. And from the way their expression flickered for a split second, they knew it too.

"Ma'am—"

"I don't answer to Reyansh," I cut them off. "And if he has a problem with that, he can always take it up with me later. But right now, I have somewhere to be. So either you get out of my way, or I swear to God, I will make sure you all regret wasting my time."

The three of them hesitated. Then exhaled sharply, stepping aside with a stiff nod.

"Fine," They bit out. "But we're following you."

"Whatever makes you all feel better."

With that, I stepped on the gas, as I saw them getting into a car behind me and following me as I made my way toward the Oberoi Hotel.

Oberoi Hotel. 1:34 AM.

The lobby was quiet, save for the occasional shuffle of the night staff and the low hum of the grand chandelier above. I had been here a hundred times before. I mean the Oberois and Roys have been friends for years now. Some of the staff recognized me and smiled brightly. 

"Ma'am you're here this late?" 

"Yes, I have a meeting. Is Mr. Shekawat here?"

"Yes, Ma'am he is seated in the bar. Please follow me. I'll guide you there."

She led the way and I followed quietly. Upon entering the bar I looked at the only figure in there now.

Rudra Shekhawat sat in one of the leather armchairs, his fingers drumming a slow, deliberate rhythm against the armrest. While the other gripped a glass off whiskey so hard I thought the glass would crack. 

His presence was always so annoying— in a way looming, demanding, like he expected the world to bend to his will simply because he breathed. Nasty.

Tonight, however, he looked distinctly unkempt. 

His tie was loose, his sleeves pushed up carelessly, the shadows beneath his eyes telling me that my little stunt had kept him awake longer than he liked. Good.