The moment the door closed, Samarth turned to Nimisha.
"Are you alright?"
She nodded, not trusting her voice.
"Did he hurt you?"
"No. Just... uncomfortable."
His jaw clenched so hard she heard his teeth grind. "He will never come close to you again."
"Your sister is marrying him. You can't control—"
"Watch me." His hand cupped her face, thumb brushing her cheek. "I don't care if he's marrying the Queen of England. If he touches you again, I'll break every bone in his hand."
The fierce protectiveness in his voice made her knees weak.
"Why do you care?" she whispered.
"Because you're mine to protect."
NotI love you.
NotI can't stand to see you hurt.
Justmine to protect.
Possession, not affection.
She nodded, swallowing her disappointment. "Thank you. For believing me."
"Always." He released her, stepping back. "Go to our room. I'll be up shortly."
She obeyed, Bruno following at her heels like a shadow.
Master Bedroom - 10:47 PM
Nimisha had showered and changed into her nightgown by the time Samarth entered their bedroom.
She was sitting on the bed, brushing her hair, when he closed the door with deliberate care.
"Did he hurt you?" he asked again, like he needed to hear the answer multiple times to believe it.
"No."
"Did he touch you anywhere else?"
"Just my wrist."
"Show me."
She extended her arm. There was a faint red mark where Kabir's fingers had gripped too tight.
Samarth's expression went deadly.
He crossed to her in three strides, taking her wrist gently in his hands. His thumb traced the mark with infinite care.
"I'm going to kill him," he said conversationally.
