Chapter 7: The Fire Within

Avni hesitated as Aarav's SUV pulled up beside her. His window rolled down, and that sharp, cocky smirk met her gaze. "Get in," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"I can walk," she replied, but her voice was barely above a whisper.

Aarav chuckled, a deep sound that sent shivers down her spine. "I wasn't asking, Avni. Get in the car."

With a sigh, she opened the door and slid into the seat. The moment she closed the door, he leaned over, so close she could feel his breath against her cheek. His fingers lightly grazed her chin, tilting her face toward him.

"You've been avoiding me," he said, his voice a dangerous mix of playfulness and control. "I don't like that."

"I haven't—" she started, but he cut her off by pressing a finger to her lips.

"Don't lie," he whispered, his eyes locking onto hers. "You think I wouldn't notice? I notice everything about you, Avni."

Her breath hitched, and she tried to look away, but he didn't let her. His hand moved from her chin to her hair, his fingers brushing softly through it. "You're too stubborn for your own good," he said, his voice dropping lower. "But that's what makes you mine."

"I'm not—" she stammered, but he interrupted again, this time leaning even closer, his lips almost grazing her ear.

"Not yet," he murmured, his tone teasing yet possessive. His hand trailed down to hers, his fingers intertwining with hers. "But you will be. And the sooner you accept that, the better for both of us."

Avni's heart raced, her body betraying her as a warmth spread through her. She pulled her hand back, trying to steady herself. "You're impossible," she whispered, her cheeks burning.

Aarav leaned back, his smirk growing. "And you're addictive," he said, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

As he drove her home, his hand casually rested on her knee, his touch possessive yet gentle. Every time she shifted uncomfortably, his grip tightened slightly, a silent reminder that she wasn't going anywhere.

By the time they reached her house, Avni's mind was a whirlwind of emotions. As she opened the door to leave, Aarav caught her wrist, pulling her back slightly.

"Sweet dreams, Avni," he said, his voice soft but firm. "And remember—there's no running from me."

She hurried inside, her heart pounding, his touch lingering on her skin like a brand she couldn't escape.