Aryansh's arms tightened like iron bands around her waist as he pulled her deeper into his lap. He didn't say a word right away; instead, he buried his face straight into the crook of her soft neck, taking a deep, ragged breath. He inhaled her scent-a intoxicating mix of fresh jasmine, sweet sandalwood, and her natural warmth.

A sudden, violent wave of goosebumps erupted all across Sahasra's skin. The sensation of his warm breath, his sharp jawline, and his slight stubble pressing right against her sensitive neck made her toes curl. Her small hands shot up, her fingers clutching tightly onto his broad, muscular shoulders as she tried to catch her breath.