Page 42 of One Hellish Desire

“I am thinking about other possibilities for our collaboration with the real estate clients,” I declare.

“I don’t think you understand this, Vikram. There can be no other possibilities other than Devki Estate. The client wants that land, nothing else. It’s the best we can offer them, and...”

“And it’s not for sale,” I shout, punching my fist on the steering wheel.

“You know what you’re saying? It would mean the end of a new venture, closing doors to billions of money.”

“I know.”

I am going insane thinking of the endless losses we might have to incur if I don’t get Devki Estate for business.

“I will call you later, Dad.”

I don’t wait for him to acknowledge. I disconnect the call and lean my head on the seat, shutting my eyes. It’s a big day tomorrow, and I will make it one of the most memorable days for Daadi and Maahi.

MAAHI

I can't believe Vikram has planned a Holi party at Ratna Mahal. Invitations have gone out to almost everyone Daadi knows, and surprisingly, to my friends and the staff too. It feels like half the town is invited. It’s going to be a big celebration with colors, water sprays, music, and lots of bhaang. I check myself in the mirror. The light pink salwar I’m wearing was a gift from Daadi on my last birthday. I can't wait to see her reaction. Daadi's choices have always suited me, be it jewelry or dresses. They all look perfect on me. Guests have started assembling in the garden before Ratna Mahal. I want to color Daadi first before anyone else and vice versa. I quickly make my way downstairs. Daadi is instructing the servants. I tiptoe behind her, fisting some colors, and gently apply them on her cheeks.

“Happy Holi, Daadi,” I say.

She laughs as I color her some more. “Happy Holi, Maahi,” she replies, and I bend down to take her blessings.

That’s when I hear Prince Pompous's voice. “You are late,” he mocks, approaching us. He is wearing a white shirt and blue jeans, much different from his usual business mogul look.

“I colored Daadi before you,” he adds.

My jaw drops. He did? When?

“I am not late, you are,” I cross my arms. “You are nine years late, Prince Pompous. So, I don’t mind if this year you colored her first.”

“Smart.” His mouth curves in a wicked smile.

“Vikram... Maahi,” Daadi interrupts us. “You two should stop fighting today. It’s Holi and...” Daadi looks at me to complete that famous statement we invented.

“Everything is fair in love, war, and Holi,” I say aloud with a giggle.

Vikram watches us intently as I give Daadi another hug.

“I am outside. Will you inform Hariya to check the bhaang counter once?” Daadi says and I readily agree. “Both of you, come out soon,” she adds, smiling at us before leaving.

Vikram turns to me.

“You won’t color me?”

His question sends a jolt through me. Coloring him means touching him, getting close, giving him the right to touch me in return. The mere thought ignites my body. I don’t like that feeling, but it’s unavoidable. Ever since Shyam planted the idea that people are talking about me and Vikram, linking us together, I’ve tried my best to avoid him. We only eat together with Daadi; otherwise, I’m either at my boutique or in my room. Vikram has never tried to invade my space nor debated Devki Estate again.

“No,” I reply. “I don’t color people I hate.”

“Hate?” He follows me to the kitchen where I think Hariya will be, but he is not. “Isn’t that a very strong word for a man who actually saved you from marrying that greedy Trivedi?”

“Oh, right,” I turn back, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “So, what do you want me to do? Say thank you? You saved my life? What can I do for you in return? Sorry, Prince Pompous, I won’t do any of that.”

My mockery ignites something in him, and I can see the fire in his eyes. He steps closer, the space between us electrifying. “Color me, Cub,” he demands, his voice low and velvety. I am almost intimidated, but I don’t step back. Not this time.

“I won’t,” I mutter with as much resolve as I can muster.

“You will,” he replies, his tone promising something more. “I will make you helpless to resist.”

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