Page 182 of One Hellish Desire

“Really?” I snap. “You think I’m such a workaholic that I’d avoid family time?”

“No. I know how much you love me and Daadi, but staying for Mom and Dad is new. I know you don’t like them much and tolerate them only for me.”

“Vikram,” I shut his mouth with my palm. “I used to tolerate them. My feelings have changed now. They gave you to me. I can never stop being grateful to them.”

He grins. “You looked jealous when I kissed Mom’s palm.”

“No. Why would I be jealous?” I frown, “In fact, I adore your relationship with your mother. The way you express your love to her and the way she dotes on you is cute to watch.”

“No matter how much tantrums Mom throws at times, I love Mom,” he smiles proudly. “She’s means everything to me, just like you are.”

I stroke his cheeks lovingly.

“Can we go take a nap too?” His fingers tease the strings at my back this time, and I wriggle.

“Nope. I’m staying here until Daadi arrives. It means I’ll have to arrange a proper meal for us. I might cook a dish or two.”

“I can help with that too.” Vikram’s fingers brush suggestively again over my back, and though I’m tempted, I resist.

“No thanks. I’ll manage.”

I push him away and call my assistant to let her know I’ll reach the boutique after lunch. Despite my refusal, Vikram still spends time with me in the kitchen, helping with small chores. He wants to do it for his parents, and how could I stop him with such a cute reason? I’m glad we have two other chefs too, or else my husband wouldn’t have kept his hands off me. Vikram Singh Grover is one of a kind! And I love everything about him now!!

After the food is ready, we freshen up and wait for Daadi to return and Vikram’s parents to wake up. They’ve been resting for three hours now—good for them. Vikram called the driver to check on Daadi, and they should be here in thirty minutes. While I arrange everything on the table, Vikram helps. Suddenly, I remember something and stop him.

“What did your mom ask that made you roll your eyes? It was about me, wasn’t it?”

Vikram grins as he places the glasses on the table. “She asked if we’ve consummated our marriage or if I’m still trying to woo you.”

I blush. They talk about these things so openly? Vikram strides purposefully towards me, pinning me between his body and the table.

“And I told her we’ve explored great heights and depths in that zone.”

Oh no! My cheeks flame. How am I supposed to face Meera aunty after this?

CHAPTER 48

VIKRAM

I'm getting romantic with Maahi in the kitchen when someone coughs to get our attention. It’s Daadi. She's back home. Maahi quickly puts some distance between us.

Daadi looks surprised by the variety of food we've prepared.

“Why didn’t you go to the boutique, Maahi? And why so much food? Are we expecting guests for lunch?”

Maahi turns to me, and we both smile, confusing Daadi even more.

“Surprise,” I say.

“Yes, it’s a surprise,” Maahi adds. “Come on, you need to freshen up while we serve lunch. Go, go, go!”

She leads Daadi to her room while I call Dad to check if he and Mom are awake. When Daadi comes out a few minutes later and sees Dad and Mom in the dining room, her eyes light up with joy.

“Vanraj? Meera? When did you come here?” she exclaims, stopping in her tracks.

Dad reaches her first while Mom stays back.

“This morning,” Dad replies, giving her a hug.

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