For once.
"Ready?"
She turned to find Samarth in the doorway, looking devastating in a black tuxedo that fit him like it had been painted on.
Her mouth went dry.
"You look beautiful," he said, his voice rough.
"Thank you. You look—"
"I know." A hint of arrogance in his smile. "But tonight, I'm just the man lucky enough to walk in with you on my arm."
Her heart stuttered.
He crossed to her, pulling a velvet box from his pocket. "One more thing."
He opened it to reveal a stunning necklace—emeralds and diamonds in an intricate pattern.
"Samarth, this is too much—"
"It matches your saree." He moved behind her, fastening it around her neck. His fingers lingered on her skin, sending shivers down her spine. "Besides, I want every man there to see you dripping in jewelry I bought. Let them know exactly who you belong to."
Possessive. Always possessive.
But tonight, she didn't mind.
The Grand Taj Ballroom - 8:34 PM
The gala was everything Saroj had promised—lavish, exclusive, attended by Mumbai's elite. Politicians, business tycoons, Bollywood celebrities, and underworld figures all mingled in expensive clothes and fake smiles.
The Ranawat family made a grand entrance.
Raghbir and Saroj led the way. Shaurya followed with Tanisha, who was still furious about the Kabir incident but putting on a brave face for the cameras.
Then Samarth and Nimisha.
The room went silent.
Nimisha felt every eye turn to them, heard the whispers start immediately.
"Is that Mrs. Ranawat?"
"I didn't know she was that beautiful."
"Samarth never brings her to events. This is rare."
"Look at that saree. And those jewels. He's staking his claim."
Samarth's hand settled on her lower back, warm and possessive, guiding her through the crowd.
She was acutely aware of the stares. Men's eyes lingering too long. Women's gazes sharp with envy or curiosity.
"Breathe," Samarth murmured in her ear. "You're doing fine."
"Everyone's staring."
"Of course they are. You're the most beautiful woman here." His hand tightened on her waist. "And you're mine. Let them look. Let them want. They can't have you."
