Page 148 of One Hellish Desire

“Darcy?” I’m confused.

“The manager of Leela Mahal. You’ve met her a few times,” he reminds me.

“Oh, yes. I didn’t know her name.”

I recall Darcy escorting me to meet Vikram at Leela Mahal and being there when the club organized our wedding reception.

“Feel free to choose the themes and ideas Darcy offers,” Vikram continues. “She’s the best at this.”

“Are you sure?” I mock.

“Sure in what sense?” His husky voice tickles my insides. The shower sound is still there, and I wonder if he likes to shower while listening to my voice. Is that his way of relaxing in my absence? What am I thinking? I feel flushed and am glad this isn’t a video call, though I wouldn’t mind if it was.

“Maahi?”

“Yes, I’m here. Actually, can we talk after you finish your shower?”

“Why? Is that bothering you?”

His earlier voice was husky and smooth, but now it’s dark and dangerous. I can imagine his eyes widening and his fists clenching for not being able to touch me. We are thousands of miles apart.

“Vikram, please finish your shower and get back to work. Call me at night, okay?” I insist.

“Uh-huh.” I can feel him smirking. “Promise me you’ll think about us when you go to bed.”

“You don’t need to tell me that. I always do.”

I give him a kiss over the phone and hang up. Why am I panting?

***************

It takes me a week to plan everything with Darcy, from the bachelorette party's theme for Preet, to the games, drinks, starters, dress codes, gifts, and, most importantly... the men. Though I was initially hesitant, Darcy and my friends insisted that the party wouldn't be complete without them. After discussing it with Darcy, I learned that some male models, enjoy entertaining brides and their friends at such events. Knowing that Darcy, as the manager of Leela Mahal, would likely report everything to Vikram, I feel assured. My husband trusts me completely. What more do I need? I agree to have men at the party.

I have already bought a sexy dress for the occasion. As the host, I need to look the part. All the invitees have received special silver bands for access to the club that night. Preet is thrilled, and so are the other girls. This party is going to be amazing!

****************

Today, I'm with Preet, helping her pick out a sexy dress for the party, which is in three days, when my phone rings with an incoming video call from Vikram. I quickly gesture for Preet to continue trying on dresses and step aside to take the call.

“Hi,” I smile, waving at him on my phone screen. He's in a three-piece grey suit, sitting in his office chair. He must have just arrived at work, as it's already 8:00 PM here in India.

“Darcy called,” he says bluntly, and I bite my lip.

“Okay...”

“Men?” he growls. “Seriously, Cub?”

“Are you jealous?”

“That's not the point. You didn't tell me about this before.”

“Last-minute additions,” I reply curtly. “Not that you need to worry. I am yours.”

He rolls his eyes. I don’t see why he has a problem with there being men at the party.

“You trust me, don't you? And you'll have your eyes on me the whole time. Plus, who would dare flirt with the club owner's wife?”

That lightens his mood a bit.

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