Wicked Desires

chapter 30

The next morning, Kriya woke up with an unfamiliar yet comforting warmth spreading through her chest. A smile lingered on her lips — soft, genuine, and effortless. For the first time in what felt like forever, everything seemed... right. The weight she'd been carrying for so long felt lighter, as if she'd left her worries behind the moment she had stepped into this place.

Maybe it was the air — crisp and fresh, carrying the scent of salt and wildflowers — or maybe it was something else entirely. Maybe it was him. The way Reyansh had held her close last night, the way his presence felt so steady, so undeniably real — it left her feeling safer than she cared to admit.

Whatever it was, she wasn't going to overthink it. For now, she just wanted to savour this rare feeling of peace — of waking up with a heart that wasn't heavy for once, and a smile she didn't have to force.

She got up from her bed, stretching her arms, and headed to the washroom. The warm shower was quick yet refreshing, washing away any lingering fatigue. For once, she felt a little different — lighter, happier — and she wanted to hold on to that feeling.

Pulling open her suitcase, her fingers landed on the cutest dress she owned — a simple yet feminine white dress that she had been saving for something special. Somehow, that special occasion never came... until now. Today wasn't about a big event or a grand moment — it was just her, feeling good for herself.

For the first time in ages, she decided to put some effort into her look. She brushed a soft layer of blush across her cheeks, painted her lips a playful cherry pink, and curled her hair into gentle waves that cascaded over her shoulders. As she stood before the mirror, she couldn't help but smile. Not because of how pretty she looked — but because, for once, she felt like herself.

Humming softly, she bounced down the stairs, her steps light and cheerful. Reyansh, lounging at the table with his usual black coffee, looked up at the sound of her footsteps — and froze.

His gaze lingered, widening slightly as if he couldn't quite believe what he was seeing. She looked... different — yet somehow still her. There was a glow about her, a quiet radiance that made her seem as though she was lit from within.

"Wow..." The word slipped from his lips before he could stop it.

Kriya smiled up at him, her eyes bright with warmth. Reyansh mentally cursed himself. Get a grip, man, he scolded. He felt like a ridiculous, lovesick fool — something he had never been before. Desperate to break the tension, he cleared his throat and suggested they head to the beach.

The morning unfolded like a dream — one Reyansh never expected to enjoy this much. They wandered through the charming cobbled streets of Santorini, the crisp air swirling with the delicious scent of fresh pastries, sea salt, and faint hints of blooming flowers from nearby cafés.

Kriya was in her element — eyes wide with excitement as she admired every little thing that caught her attention. She'd stop every few steps, pointing out handmade jewellery, vibrant scarves, and intricate crafts laid out by local vendors.

By the time they reached the beach, the sun had climbed higher, its golden warmth softening the cool morning air. The waves crashed against the shore in a steady rhythm, white foam licking at the edges of the sand.

Kriya didn't waste a second — she kicked off her sandals and sprinted toward the water, giggling as her feet sank into the wet sand. Reyansh leaned back against a palm tree, watching her from a distance. She was twirling along the shoreline like a child, her dress clinging to her knees as she bent down to scoop up seashells.

"Reyansh!" she called, waving a handful of shells like they were precious gems. "Look at these!"

He groaned but pushed himself off the tree and strolled toward her. By the time he reached the water, Kriya was already splashing around, flicking droplets at him with a playful grin.