Chapter 12: The Untamed Moment

The invitation arrived the next day—a grand party at one of Aarav's associate's lavish estates. Avni had no choice but to accompany him. Aarav had insisted, sending her a message:

"Be ready by 7. Wear something that makes you unforgettable."

By evening, she stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the deep red saree she had borrowed from her mother. The fabric clung to her in ways that made her nervous, exposing more skin than she was used to. Yet, the soft shimmer and intricate gold embroidery made her look radiant.

When Aarav's car—a sleek Rolls-Royce—pulled up outside her house, Avni's breath caught at the sight of him stepping out. He was dressed in a crisp black suit, his sharp features illuminated by the car's lights.

His eyes darkened the moment he saw her. Walking up to her, he didn't speak immediately, his gaze slowly taking her in. "You look…" he paused, his voice dropping, "perfect."

In the car, his hand rested lightly on her bare waist, his fingers grazing her skin. "I wasn't expecting this," he murmured, his voice husky.

"Expecting what?" she asked, her pulse quickening.

"That you could look this… tempting," he replied, his fingers tightening slightly as he pulled her closer.

At the party, Aarav stayed by her side, his arm draped possessively around her. Every time a man's gaze lingered on her for too long, Aarav's jaw clenched, and his grip on her waist tightened.

"You're doing this on purpose," he whispered into her ear, his breath warm against her skin.

"What?" she asked, her cheeks flushing.

"Driving me insane," he replied, his fingers brushing her bare shoulder.

When the music slowed, Aarav pulled her onto the dance floor. His hands rested on her waist as he guided her in a slow rhythm, his touch sending shivers down her spine. "You can't run from me tonight," he said softly, his lips just inches from hers.

As the music faded, Aarav leaned in, his eyes locked on hers. She could feel his breath on her lips, his hand sliding up her back.

But just as his lips were about to meet hers, panic set in. Avni stepped back abruptly, her heartbeat thundering in her chest. "I-I need some air," she stammered before turning and rushing out of the hall.

Aarav stood there, his gaze following her retreating figure, a dangerous mix of frustration and desire flashing in his eyes. He clenched his fists, his mind made up—there was no escaping him now.