Page 49 of One Hellish Desire

“Maahi,” she rubs my shivering arms. “You don’t have to explain anything to me.”

I’m so relieved.

“Thank you,” I nod.

“But I am worried,” she adds, “for you and Vikram, both.”

That’s my concern too. What is she worried about?

“Almost the whole town was here, and they witnessed it. You know how people talk.”

“I know, and that’s why I try to stay away from that Prince Pompous. But he…”

“He won’t,” Daadi completes my sentence, meeting my gaze. “He won’t change his behavior or his way of living because of others, Maahi.”

I still don’t understand.

“He has never given importance to what society thinks.”

“That’s exactly why I call him Prince Pompous,” I smile.

But Daadi doesn’t smile back. She watches me nervously.

“Daadi, it’s okay,” I add. “I’m fine, and in this matter, I support Vikram’s way of handling things. I won’t care about what people think of us. Their opinions don’t matter to me.”

“And Vikram’s?” she asks.

I’m confused. She grips my arms tightly.

“Do Vikram’s opinions matter to you?”

I’m blank. What is she trying to tell me?

“Even if they do, I won’t let him hurt you, Maahi,” she continues.

I see fear in her eyes. What is she so afraid of?

“He didn’t hurt me,” I say truthfully. “In fact, whatever he does, says, or all the trouble he gives me has never hurt me. It’s like we’re still teenagers who love to fight, sometimes unnecessarily. You don’t have to worry about us, Daadi.”

Her eyes fill with tears, but she doesn’t continue the topic. She wipes her eyes and nods gently.

“I have to go out for some time. I’ll be back soon.”

“Where are you going?” I ask instantly.

“Lawyer.”

I’m speechless. Lawyer? Why? Before I can ask, she has already left the room.

VIKRAM

I know Mom is up to something. She’s never been this quiet and unavailable before. Our talk last night must have convinced her I have a soft spot for Maahi. But I’ve never let my parents decide who I choose in my life. As I reach the living room, I see Maahi talking on the phone, looking happy. I don’t interrupt and head to the couch. She notices me but continues her conversation, pointedly ignoring my presence.

“I'll attend your engagement, Kavita. Don't worry, I won't let you down this time,” she assures her friend. Her gaze flicks to me as she adds, “Yes, if he's available, he'll join us too.”

I know she's referring to me, and despite my indifference to this Kavita person, the thought of accompanying Maahi to an engagement party stirs something within me.

“Vikram.” Daadi's voice breaks my reverie. She's holding an envelope, her expression unreadable. “We need to talk. Let's go to the drawing room.”

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