Chapter 4: The First Touch

Avni didn't call him, even though his number burned in her pocket like a secret she wasn't ready to share. Days passed, but the memory of his deep voice and piercing eyes lingered.

One evening, as she walked home, she felt a chill in the air. It was the same uneasy feeling she'd had before. Her steps quickened, but before she could reach the main road, a group of men blocked her path.

"Where are you rushing off to, little one?" one of them sneered.

Her pulse raced as fear gripped her. She backed away, clutching her bag, but they stepped closer. Suddenly, the roar of an engine shattered the silence. A black SUV screeched to a halt, and Aarav stepped out, his expression dark and dangerous.

The men scattered without a word, their bravado crumbling under his glare.

Avni stood frozen, her body trembling. Aarav approached her slowly, his eyes scanning her face. "Are you hurt?" he asked, his voice low but urgent.

She shook her head, but he wasn't convinced. Gently, he took her hand, and she winced. His jaw tightened as he noticed the faint bruises on her wrist. "Who did this to you?"

"N-no one," she stammered, trying to pull her hand back, but his grip was firm yet careful.

"Don't lie to me," Aarav said, his voice dangerously soft. "I'll find out either way."

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she looked away. His expression softened, and for the first time, she saw something other than dominance in his eyes—concern.

"Get in the car," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. "You're not walking home alone again."

Avni hesitated but followed him, knowing her life was about to change forever.