Page 96 of One Hellish Desire

I turn to Mom, who is as shocked as I am at Maahi’s accusation.

“That’s right,” I reply. “I’m with a woman who is watching me strip, standing a few feet away.”

Before Maahi can picture that, Mom shouts.

“Stop giving false impressions to your wife, Vikram. You have no idea when she might take them seriously. Indian women are very possessive about their husbands.”

I agree with Mom. Indian women are something. Since I’m married to one, I can’t wait to test her limits. Mom throws me a quick glance. “Your Dad and I will wait for you at the party. Do come.”

“I’m not coming,” I declare, but she walks out without listening.

I focus back on Maahi’s phone call.

“We can do a quick video call,” I suggest.

“I have no interest in seeing you strip. Do that before other women, not me.”

Other women? Did she really mean it? No wife likes her husband doing that with other women, however rough their marriage is. Despite living abroad and adopting a western lifestyle, I’ve changed my views since visiting India. I’m a married man now, and the only woman I want to see me strip is my wife, Maahi.

“What measurements were your men taking at Devki Estate?” Maahi’s question breaks my stance.

“You should have asked them.”

“I did,” she shouts. “They said they have strict orders not to reveal anything until the project begins.”

A smile breaks on my lips as I turn on the shower. That’s right.

“Really? Whose orders?” I tease.

“Your orders, dammit.”

Dammit? Did she just use that word on me? My eyes shut as the warm water slides down my back.

“Vikram, what is happening? I need to know what you’re doing at Devki Estate. We’re co-owners. You can’t hide important decisions from me.”

“And what about you, Maahi? You should have told me before going on a coffee date with your ex-fiancé.”

“It wasn’t a date. I met him because he knew the secrets you wouldn’t tell me.”

Now I’m intrigued. Secrets? Does she mean my project work at Devki Estate?

“Had you told me your plans, I wouldn’t have to see that man again. I don’t like him either, Vikram. So, give your wicked brain a break and tell me the truth. What are you building on Devki Estate?”

She’s figured out I’m building something. Good. Let’s see how soon she finds out what exactly it will be used for. I’m not telling her because I know she’s smart enough to find out soon. And when she does, I can’t wait to see her reaction.

CHAPTER 26

MAAHI

Vikram’s silence irks me. Ever since I married him and he defied the sole purpose of it, I haven’t been myself. Even the slightest provocation ignites my temper. Yesterday, I snapped at my boutique team when they surprised me with a cake to celebrate my wedding. Instead of thanking them, I scolded everyone for not focusing on the client deadlines. I’m losing control. The mere thought of losing my grip on Devki Estate is driving me mad.

“They say if a woman is unusually quiet, she is either not well or hiding something,” Vikram says, breaking my thoughts.

I realize we are still on the call. I wanted details on why he sent men to measure the site, but he’s too good at evading. He twisted the conversation, asking why I met Shyam without his approval.

“Maahi,” he says softly, striking a chord in my heart. It's still hard to believe that this man I constantly argue with is my husband.

“I’m fine,” I lie. “Actually, I’m superfine. Know why? Because I have an idea how to make you feel exactly what I’m going through.”

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