10

I gazed at myself in the mirror, trying to calm the fluttering nerves in my stomach. Yesterday, Rudraksh had asked me—no, told me—to be ready for a date tonight.

I was in a huge dilemma about what to wear since he was expecting a surprise. I wouldn't say I like revealing clothes; they make me uncomfortable. But I know Rudraksh doesn't mind what kind of dress I wear; he's always satisfied unless it's necessary. But tonight, I wanted to impress him.

Do I? Don't know.

Picking up my phone, I typed a text: "Hi, are you busy?" I barely had time to worry about disturbing him before my phone buzzed with a reply: "I'm always free for you." My cheeks turned deep red. "What's your favourite colour?" I texted, sounding a bit desperate.

I was hoping he was not getting mad at me for this silly question. He is a busy man and I have no intention to disturb his work. Even if I have a death wish I don't want it to him to kill me. Brutally.

His reply came almost immediately: "Inside or outside?"

It took me a moment to grasp the meaning behind his words, and I could practically feel him smirking. Then another text arrived: "Just kidding, Jaan. I don't have any favourite colour. But whatever you wear, becomes my favourite."

Why does he have to be like this? Aren't mafias supposed to be scary? Then why isn't he? The way he spoke to me felt like an electric current passing through my whole body.

Throwing my phone on the bed, I rummaged through my wardrobe. I have plenty of dresses I've never worn. I never wanted to, I wanted a simple ordinary life but my life is now not ordinary anymore.

Finally, I found the perfect one: a maroon off-shoulder mid-length gown. It was elegant, not too revealing, with minimal accessories to complement it, a thin gold plated bracelet with matching earrings.

Once I was ready, I checked myself in the mirror one last time, hoping he wouldn't be disappointed. A servant came to inform me that the driver was there. I rushed outside with a final glance, clutching my purse. Roma, as usual, watched me with disdain, but I was used to it. It doesn't bother me anymore like before or before him.

His driver was already waiting for me outside and I apologise for being 10mins late. His face showed disbelief but remained constant. The ride felt quiet and long, but I finally reached the venue. It was quiet but beautiful, is there no other people?

As I walked inside, I saw a familiar figure approaching me with those predatory eyes that seemed to see right into my soul. He stopped just two steps away, gazing at me from head to toe. I think I heard him swearing under his breath.

"Fuck, you look incredible," he said, his voice low and husky.

"Thank you," I replied, feeling my cheeks heat up.

"I booked the whole place only for us, I don't want any disturbance when I'm with you."

I tried to change the subject to avoid blushing more. "So, what's the plan for tonight?"

He smirked, sensing my attempt. "You'll see, jaan. But I must say, I'm enjoying the view right now."

As we sat down for dinner, his hand found mine under the table, his thumb caressing my skin. The intimate touch sent shivers down my spine. "You know," he whispered, leaning closer, "I've been thinking about you all day. About how much I want you."

My heart raced. "Umm, how's your work going? I said, trying to keep my voice steady. He was not pleased with my question "We are not here to talk about my work Jaan. We are here to know each other, better.

He chuckled looking at my flustered face. By the time our food arrived, he already told me about his education, his starting career days, his family relationships, and his late grandparents who he misses a lot.

I swallowed hard, feeling the intensity of his gaze. "How do you know these are my favourite dishes?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. I was so surprised to see all my favourites on the table. I don't remember when I had my favourite meal last time. Nobody paid attention in my family.

Somewhere, my heart melts for this. That someone knows about what I like.

"I know many things about you Jaan but still I like to explore myself about you."

I stare blankly at him. Who would believe that the most dangerous man could say something so sweet to someone? Here I'm careful using my words in front of him, to not offend him. In a split second, my head will be served on this same table.

But I feel safe around him. A part of me believes that he won't hurt me.

He again reached for my hand. "I want you to be yourself, to feel free with me," he said, his eyes burning into mine. "And I want to make love to you until you forget everything else."

The first line took my breath away but the next one, literally sends a spark inside me and I don't want to mention actually where it is.

Before I could respond, a loud gunshot rang out. I covered my ears, panic rising. Rudraksh immediately became alert, pulling out his gun. One of his guards came running, informing us we were under attack. The sound of gunfire filled the air.

I am hearing these noises after a very long time. I tried so hard to stay away from all the violence but my life put me again in the middle of this.

"How many?" That's what he asked the guard. "Around fifty Boss, but can be more"

"I will give them a brutal death," he said something to the guard which I can barely hear between these noises.

"Stay close," Rudraksh ordered, his voice cold and authoritative. He pulled me into a nearby room, his eyes blazing with fury. "Do not come out until I come back, Myra."

I could only nod, terrified. His use of my name instead of 'Jaan' showed how serious he was. But I was worried about him. "please be careful," I whispered, but he glared back at me, his eyes warning me to stay put.

"Do. Not. Come. Out," he repeated before disappearing.

I waited, covering my ears, praying he would be safe. Suddenly, I felt a movement behind me. Turning slowly, I gasped. A masked man stood there, holding a gun.