Suchitra's eyes were tightly shut, her heart drumming violently in her chest. She could feel the warmth of Karan's breath hovering near her face, but there was no movement from him. Seconds stretched painfully. Thinking maybe she pulled out the wrong move, she slowly began to step back.

But before she could fully move away, Karan's hand slipped around her waist - firm, possessive, and sure - pulling her back against him in one swift motion.

Her breath hitched. His touch was warm, his palm pressing lightly yet commandingly against her bare waist where her saree had shifted.

And then, without another word, Karan lowered his head and captured her lips with his.

It wasn't rushed. It wasn't hesitant either. It was slow- deliberate- like he had waited too long to do this and wanted to memorize every second.

Suchitra froze at first, her mind blank. His lips were soft, yet demanding; they molded against hers perfectly. For a few moments, neither of them moved- it was just the feeling of his lips on hers, the sound of their breaths tangling.

Then Karan began to move.

His lips started to trace hers, gently sucking, coaxing her to respond. The slow rhythm made her heartbeat stumble. Her hands trembled by her sides, unsure what to do.

Karan (in a husky whisper, voice low against her lips): Kiss me back.

Her heart skipped.

Suchitra (stammering softly): M-mujhe nahi aata... ye k-kaise karte hain.

Karan chuckled under his breath - a deep, low sound that vibrated against her skin. She felt her stomach twist at that sound; it wasn't mocking, it was warm, teasing... sinful.

Karan (smiling against her lips): I'll teach you. Just follow me.

Before she could protest, his lips found hers again. This time, he kissed her slowly but with purpose - his movements guiding hers. He nibbled lightly on her lower lip, sucking it gently, tasting her like she was something rare.

Suchitra's body reacted before her mind did. Her fingers gripped the fabric of his shirt, pulling him closer without realizing it. She hesitated but then started moving her lips against his, copying his rhythm. Clumsy at first... but then it became natural, instinctive.

Karan smiled faintly through the kiss, feeling her respond. His hand tightened around her waist, pulling her flush against him. The space between them vanished completely.

The rain suddenly burst louder, pouring heavily. They both get drenched in rain fully but neither of them cared.

Karan's lips moved with hunger now, not just kissing but devouring every inch of her lips like he couldn't get enough. The rain ran down through their body, clothes stick to them like second skin- but all she could feel was him.

Her body pressed against his, her heart racing. She rose on her toes to match his height, one hand sliding up to his shoulder for balance. He bent slightly, deepening the kiss, his other hand moving from her waist to the back of her neck, holding her gently but firmly in place.

Their breaths were heavy, shallow between each stolen kiss.

Suchitra's mind was spinning - she had never felt something so intense, so consuming. It was fire and softness all at once.



Karan finally pulled back, but only enough to look at her. His forehead rested against hers, their breaths mingling.

Karan (voice low, barely above a whisper): Now that... that's how you kiss back.

Suchitra's lips trembled, still tingling. Her cheeks were flushed deep pink, her eyes fluttering open just enough to meet his.

Suchitra (softly, half shy, half dazed): You're... impossible.

Karan smirked faintly, brushing his thumb across her lower lip.

Karan (teasingly): Maybe. But you didn't seem to mind.

She wanted to reply, to push him, to hide her burning cheeks- but the words died on her lips as the droplet sliding from his lips to her lips.



Karan gently cupped Suchitra's cheeks in his hands, his thumbs brushing softly across her skin. He lowered his forehead to rest against hers. Her eyes fluttered closed, lips slightly parted, and for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist. The rain pattered against the car roof like a distant melody, a private soundtrack to the storm of emotions between them.



Karan (soft, intense): "I..."

Without finishing, he leaned in once more and pressed his lips against hers. This time, he kissed her with a hunger that was tempered by tenderness, sucking gently yet possessively. He pulled back slightly, his forehead still resting against hers, his gaze locked onto her lips as if they held the power to anchor him to the moment.

Karan (breathless, teasing): "It's... addictive. I really don't want to leave you now."

He paused, his hand lingering on her cheek as his voice softened.

Karan (gentle, concerned): "But... we have to go home. Or else you'll catch a cold. And that... is the last thing I want to happen to you."

Suchitra's lips quivered, her heart racing, but she nodded, trusting him completely. Karan reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers with a careful intimacy, and helped her slide into the passenger seat.



He took his place beside her, their shoulders brushing, both still dripping wet from the rain.

Karan (caring, warm): "Here... let me."

He reached to the backseat, retrieving his coat, and wrapped it snugly around her shoulders. The warmth from his body and the coat seeped into her, chasing away the chill that clung to her skin. He turned on the heater, and the soft hum filled the car, blending with the distant sound of raindrops.

Suchitra rested her hand lightly on his arm, leaning slightly into his bicep. The scent of him-warm, musky, intoxicating-made her breath hitch. Karan's lips curled into a smile as he started the engine, his eyes on the road but his mind clearly elsewhere.

Karan (playful, smirking): "...you know, you feel good like this. Leaning on me."

Suchitra looked up at him, a slight blush on her cheeks.

Suchitra (curious, teasing): "What's happening now? Why the smirk?"

Karan's smirk deepened, his eyes glinting with mischief.

Karan (confident, teasing): "See... I told you, I'd take my kiss with interest. And... well, I took it."

He licked his lips slowly, as if savoring the taste of her, and gave her a teasing wink. Suchitra, flustered and overwhelmed, hid her face against his bicep, her hands clutching the coat around her.

Karan (amused, chuckling softly): "Hey... don't hide. I can feel that smile trying to creep out."

Suchitra's heart raced, but she couldn't bring herself to look at him yet. The warmth of his arm, the subtle thrill of his words, and the closeness they shared left her dizzy and breathless. Karan, noticing her flustered state, couldn't help but let out a low chuckle, the sound vibrating softly in the car. He wrap his one arm to her waist, She snuggle more.

Karan (softly, almost a whisper): "Relax... you're safe. And... I've got you. Always."

The rain continued to streak the windshield, but inside the car, the world had narrowed down to the two of them-wet, warm, and tangled in the kind of intimacy that left hearts beating faster than reason allowed.



......

Karan and Suchitra stepped inside, shaking the last of the cold water from their clothes. The front hall was cloaked in a solid, inky darkness. The house lights were all off. Outside, the rain continued its persistent drumming on the roof and windows, punctuated now by sharp, resonant claps of thunder.

They stood in the entryway, the sound of their heavy, soaked breathing loud in the sudden silence. Karan reached for the wall switch, flipping it up, down, then up again. Nothing.

Karan (Annoyance, Light-hearted): "Isse bhi abhi jaana tha." (The power had to go out right now.)

Suchitra (Calm, Practical): "Don't worry. I'll light some candles."

Karan nodded, already moving. His spare clothes were in the guest room. He quickly stumbled through the pitch-black space, shedding his drenched shirt and pants, and pulling on a dry Shirt and trouser. He felt instantly warmer, but his hair was still dripping.

When he returned to their bedroom, the oppressive darkness had been broken. Suchitra was bent over a small table, lighting the last candle from the meager flame of the one before it. The candlelight was a warm, fragile pool of gold that fell directly onto her face.



He paused in the doorway, just watching her. Her cheeks and the tip of her nose were flushed a vivid red-a mixture of the cold rain and the heat of the humid room. But her lips were an even deeper, more enticing crimson. The image of their hurried, stolen kisses from earlier this evening flashed through his mind, and a slow smirk curved his mouth.

He moved silently, closing the distance until he stood directly behind her.

Suchitra stiffened, a silent, electric awareness running through her body as she felt a ghost of his warm breath on the back of her neck. Her eyes immediately darted up to the reflection in the mirror before her. It was Karan, close enough to touch, yet completely still. His gaze in the glass was intense, heavy with an emotion she recognized instantly: something raw, purely for her, and undeniably magnetic.



Karan lowered his eyes to her shoulder. The edge of her wet saree pallu was still clumsily pinned to her blouse. Slowly, deliberately, he reached out, his fingertips brushing the sensitive skin of her shoulder blade as he found the pin. He gave a gentle tug and unlatched the pallu. It didn't snag, but slid smoothly, a whisper of wet silk falling away to pool slightly around her waist.

She didn't flinch or reach out to secure it. Her breath was held tight in her chest.

He reached around, gently turning her to face him, his hands resting lightly on her arms. In the soft, wavering glow of the candles, he looked into her eyes for a long moment, then shifted his gaze slowly down to her lips. It was a silent, profound question, a request for permission she knew he wouldn't take without her sign.

Suchitra took a small step forward, closing the final inch between them. That was all the answer he needed.



His mouth came down on hers-firm, demanding, yet with a gentleness that always surprised her. He kissed her fully, then drew back slightly to softly suck on her lower lip before pulling her flush against his chest.

Still kissing her, his arms scooped her up in a swift, powerful motion, holding her securely in a bridal carry. The nearest piece of furniture was the long, plush sofa in the corner of the room. He walked the three steps and lowered her down onto the cushions, his body following hers seamlessly so that their kiss never broke.

Suchitra's hand rose to tap impatiently on his damp shoulder. She needed to breathe.

He relented, but only to trace her lips one last time with his tongue. He then trailed his attention, and his kisses, down the side of her jaw to her neck. He placed an open-mouthed, wet kiss where her neck met her shoulder, followed by several more warm, intoxicating presses along her collarbone.

Suchitra closed her eyes, a soft sigh escaping her as she felt the exquisite pleasure of his focus. Her head tilted back slightly, offering him easier access.

He moved lower, his attention focused on the curve of her shoulder. He reached a hand out to gently slide the neckline of her wet blouse down a fraction, exposing the soft swell of her upper chest, and kissed the newly revealed skin with reverence.

Every kiss was a tremor that ran through Suchitra. She felt his devotion in the slow, tender pace. She was breathless, thoroughly aroused, and undeniably enjoying every single moment.

He continued his descent, past the tight knot of her saree, to the soft, exposed skin of her abdomen. His lips were barely there, a fluttering, soft touch-a butterfly kiss on her belly button before he returned swiftly to her face.

Suchitra didn't wait. Her free hand cupped his cheek, her fingers lightly gripping the edge of his jaw. She lifted her head and crashed her lips onto his with a sudden, renewed urgency.

Karan responded instantly, the slow tenderness giving way to a fierce, passionate exchange. He was practically lying atop her, the weight of his body pressing her into the sofa cushions. She didn't mind. Her fingers found the back of his hair, still damp from the rain, and she tugged and fiddled with the wet strands in a gesture of pure possessiveness.

His hands abandoned her arms, sweeping down to her waist, the tips of his fingers tracing the dip of her hip beneath the wet cloth. (From rain.. Gande log). He grabbed the fabric over her thighs and squeezed gently. A soft, breathless moan escaped her lips, only to be swallowed by his own as his tongue slid deeply inside her mouth, mapping every corner with fierce, total exploration.

Finally, he pulled back, their mouths still close enough to exchange gasps of air. Suchitra was breathing heavily, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

He rested his forehead against hers, the two of them inhaling the same warm, humid air. He kissed her wet cheek.

Karan (Breathless, Insecure): "I hope I didn't exaggerate anything."

Suchitra (Gentle, Affectionate): "Shh."

She lifted her finger and placed it lightly over his lips, silencing him.

Suchitra (Loving, Affirming): "You didn't do anything over. Vaise bhi I'm yours. The claim I have on you, you have the same on me. You can kiss me anywhere, any place you want, Karan. I'm yours."

She gave him a soft, reassuring peck on the lips.

He smiled, a look of pure relief and happiness washing over his face. He leaned down and pecked her lips again, longer this time.

Karan (Teasing, Content): "Good. Because I'm not done with you yet."

He brushed his thumb along her flushed cheek and placed one last lingering peck on her lips - soft, warm, and full of quiet promise.

Then, in a low, affectionate tone, he murmured -

Karan (gently): You should go change your clothes, Suchi. You'll catch a cold.

He stood up, giving her space, his voice still laced with the sweetness of the moment.

Suchitra, still blushing, nodded wordlessly. Her heartbeat echoed in her ears. She rose from the couch, carefully avoiding his eyes. Picking up her clothes, she quickly disappeared into the bathroom.

Inside, she exhaled shakily. Her reflection in the mirror still carried the remnants of his touch - the warmth on her lips, the color on her cheeks.

She changed into his oversized t-shirt and shorts. They were soft, comforting, and smelled unmistakably like him - a mix of mint and something deeply masculine.

She closed her eyes for a second, breathing him in.

Suchitra (to herself, shyly smiling): Why does everything about him feel so... safe? So loveable?

When she stepped out, the room was quiet - empty. Her brows knitted together.

Suchitra (softly): Karan?

No reply. But then, faint sounds came from the kitchen - the clinking of utensils. Curious, she walked toward the sound, her bare feet making no noise on the floor.

And there he was.

Standing in front of the stove - tall, lean, shirtless - with his back to her. The faint light from the small kitchen window traced the lines of his shoulders and back. Steam rose from the pan, curling around his silhouette.

(Wait... Is she shirtless? Let me add picture for some lovely readers.)



She stopped at the doorway, her breath catching. For a moment, she just watched him - the easy grace in his movements, the calmness in his presence.

Then, almost instinctively, she walked closer and slipped her arms around his bare torso from behind. Her cheek rested against his back. His skin was warm under her touch.



Karan's lips curved into a smile. Without turning immediately, he placed one hand gently over hers.

Karan (soft chuckle): Someone's being clingy.

Suchitra (hiding her face): I just... wanted to see what you're doing.

He finally turned to face her, a teasing glint in his eyes. He held up two steaming cups.

Karan (lightly): Coffee. So that tomorrow we don't end up sneezing all day.

Suchitra (smiling): You made coffee? For me?

Karan (mock offense): Of course. Who else will take care of you if not me?

Her heart fluttered at that. They both walked to the balcony together. The rain had softened to a steady drizzle - a silver curtain under the dim light. Karan set the cups on the side table and sat on a chair.

Before she could reach for the other chair, he tugged at her wrist gently.

Karan (teasing): Sit here.

The pull caught her off guard - she lost balance and landed right in his lap. Her eyes widened, lips parted in surprise.

Karan leaned closer, his breath brushing her skin.

(That's a very unique way to sit, Mr. Karanvir Singh Dhillon)

Before she could reply, he brushed a quick kiss on her lips - playful, brief, yet enough to make her heart race.

He handed her the cup of coffee, still grinning.

Karan: Careful, it's hot.

She took a sip, trying to hide her blush.

Suchitra (softly): Karan... why are you roaming around shirtless? You were wearing one earlier.

He raised an eyebrow, amused.

Karan (grinning): Actually, I was feeling comfortable this way. And besides... after seeing your red cheeks, I lost the will to wear a shirt again.

Her mouth fell open slightly.

Suchitra (gasping): Besharam.

He laughed, that low, husky laugh that always made her stomach flip. She sighed and placed her head gently on his chest.



Karan (teasingly, with a smirk): Yeah, as if you're not enjoying this.

She looked up at him, her lips curving into a shy smile.

Suchitra (gently): You might catch a cold, Karan.

She stood, walked inside for a moment, and returned with a soft shawl. Sitting back on his lap, she wrapped it around both of them snugly.

Suchitra (adjusting the shawl): Better.

Karan (playfully): Much better - now I don't have to share your warmth with the rain.

She rolled her eyes but smiled, resting against him again. His arm rested lightly on her thighs, the other hand holding his cup as they sipped their coffee together.

Outside, the rain kept falling - slow, rhythmic, endless.

The world was quiet, wrapped in mist and the scent of wet earth.

And there they sat - under the balcony roof, wrapped in a shawl, in each other's warmth.

When the cups were empty, their eyes grew heavier, their breaths deeper.

Eventually, their words faded into silence.

The rain whispered its lullaby, and they drifted off to sleep - still together, still holding on.



Sometime past midnight, Karan stirred awake. The rain had quieted to a distant drizzle, and a soft golden glow filled the room - the power was finally back.

He blinked, adjusting to the sudden light. His gaze drifted downward, and his lips curved into a gentle smile.

Suchitra was still asleep, curled up in his lap, her arms loosely wrapped around his torso like a child clutching her favorite comfort. Her face rested peacefully against his chest, her breath slow and even.

He brushed a strand of hair away from her forehead, his touch featherlight, and carefully slipped his arms under her. Lifting her in a bridal style, he felt her stir slightly, her fingers gripping his biceps for a second.

Suchitra (half-asleep murmur): Hmm... Karan...

Karan (whispering, smiling): Shh... sleep, sweetheart.

She relaxed again, head falling softly against his shoulder. He carried her to the bedroom, each step slow and careful as if the silence itself was fragile.



Gently, he laid her down on the bed, pulling the blanket over her.

For a moment, he stood there - watching her. The soft light from the lamp touched her face, and he could see the faint traces of their laughter, their kisses, their rain-soaked night still painted on her skin.

He turned toward the balcony, gathering the two half-empty coffee mugs. After placing them in the sink, he returned quietly.

Back in the room, Suchitra had shifted slightly, one hand resting on the empty side of the bed - searching for him even in her sleep.

That single gesture made his heart melt.

He smiled faintly, turned off the lamp, and slid under the blank.

Without hesitation, he reached out and wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. Her body fit perfectly against his, like two pieces of the same rhythm.

She stirred again, turning in his embrace. Still half-asleep, she nuzzled into his neck, her lips brushing against his skin in a soft, sleepy peck.

Karan (whispering, eyes closed): I love you, Suchi.

He pressed a kiss on her hair - slow, lingering, full of quiet warmth.

She let out a small sigh and settled against him, her hand resting over his heart.

And just like that - with their breaths synced, their hearts steady, and the night wrapping around them - they drifted back to sleep.

Together. In each other's arms.



....

The first light of dawn filtered softly through the curtains, casting a golden hue across the room. Karan stirred awake, blinking against the warmth that spread across his chest.

He looked down and found Suchitra sleeping soundly against him - her breath gentle, brushing lightly over his skin. Her hair was a beautiful, tangled mess, spread across the pillow like dark silk. Her lips were forming a small pout, and her expression was so innocent, so peaceful, it made his heart melt.

Karan (softly, smiling): How do you manage to look this adorable even in sleep?

He brushed a strand of hair away from her face and placed a tender kiss on her forehead. She didn't move - just snuggled deeper into the blanket, her hand resting over his heart.

With a quiet chuckle, Karan slipped out of bed and padded to the bathroom.

A few minutes later, he came out fresh and awake - droplets of water still clinging to his skin, tracing down the lines of his toned abs and faint scars. He hadn't bothered wearing a shirt, and the early sunlight caught every movement of his lean, muscled frame.

He rubbed a towel through his hair as he walked toward the kitchen.

Karan (to himself, amused): Okay, breakfast. How hard can it be?

He rummaged through the cabinets, trying to recall how Suchitra usually made her tea. Finally, he grinned when he found the ingredients.

The kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of boiling tea and toasted bread. He poured the tea into two cups and placed everything neatly on a tray - tea, toast, and that smile of satisfaction that comes from a small victory.

When he returned to the bedroom, he stopped mid-step.

Suchitra was still fast asleep - or at least pretending to be. The entire blanket was wrapped around her like a cocoon, and she had somehow managed to claim the whole bed for herself.

Karan shook his head with a laugh, setting the tray down on the side table.

Karan (softly): Suchii... wake up.

No response.

Karan (a little louder): Suchi, come on now.

Still nothing.

He leaned closer, nudging her gently.

Karan (mock concern): Sweetheart, please wake up...

Her lashes fluttered slightly, but her breathing stayed even. That's when he noticed the faint pink flush blooming across her cheeks - and the corner of her lips twitching, trying not to smile.

He smirked, crossing his arms.

Karan (mischievous tone, pretending to think): Hmm... she's not waking up. Should I... wake her up with a kiss?

Her cheeks instantly reddened even more. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye, biting back a grin.

Karan (playfully whispering): Or maybe... something else. How about a little tickle?

He barely grazed her waist when she shot upright, eyes wide, hair flying.

Suchitra (half-laughing, startled): No! No, no tickles!

Karan laughed heartily, thoroughly enjoying himself.

Karan (teasing): Gotcha. I knew you weren't sleeping.

She hit him lightly on the chest, pouting.

Suchitra (fake annoyance): You're so bad, Karan. You didn't even let me sleep properly.

Karan (grinning): Aree, you did sleep!

Suchitra (crossing arms): But it wasn't enough!

Karan (pretending to be serious): Fine, fine. But first - breakfast. Then you can sleep again.

She frowned like a sulky child.

Suchitra (innocently): I don't want to. Not before I brush my teeth?

Karan (smiling, patient): Yes, first go and brush.

She tilted her head and blinked up at him with exaggerated sweetness, trying to charm her way out of it.

He shook his head in mock defeat. he swooped in, lifting her effortlessly in his arms.

He carried her into the bathroom and set her down on the counter, his expression soft but firm. Picking up her toothbrush, he applied the paste neatly and handed it to her like a parent instructing a stubborn child.

Karan (gently, but playfully): Now brush your teeth. I'll clean the room in the meantime.

Suchitra nodded obediently, trying not to laugh.

Suchitra (sweetly): Fine, Major Dhillon. As you command.

He chuckled, leaning forward to ruffle her messy hair.

Karan (teasing): Good girl.

And as he walked out of the bathr

oom, she giggled softly, watching his retreating figure - tall, shirtless, confident, and hopelessly hers.