Anvi***

Have you ever heard of that saying "Food to the stomach is the way to the heart"?

I have too. And it is true. That's exactly why I'm standing in the middle of my kitchen in this huge empty apartment, trying to cook a perfect meal for the only man who's heart I want.

Now trust me, really, I love to cook. And I cook well, very well. My entire family has confirmed the fact that if nothing else, I'd try out to be a great cook. But we all have moments of weakness, right? Moments where suddenly the thing you were best at doesn't seem to turn out good enough. That's exactly what's been happening today. Nothing I stir up in one of my pots seems tasty enough to be complimented.

I cross my arms over my chest, staring at the pot of boiling pasta. Beside it, the red tomato sauce simmers gently, its surface glistening under the low flame. I scratch my head, a crease forming between my brows as confusion sets in. A soft groan escapes my lips, frustration bubbling up like the water in the pot. Cooking was supposed to be easy.

Something is missing. Pasta, Garlic bread, Salad... I have everything then why in the freaking hell do I feel like something is missing?

I lean back against the kitchen island, my gaze sweeping across the granite countertops and the shelves hanging above. My eyes scan the space, searching for the missing piece to complete this hearty meal. Then, my eyebrows lift in quiet triumph as I spot it—a bottle of perfectly fine, sealed wine tucked away in one of the farthest cabinets, just waiting to be uncorked.

Bingo.

I glance at the bubbling sauce, as I stir it lazily. The aroma fills the kitchen, warm and comforting, making my stomach twist with hunger. My hand moves to the pot beside it, and I tip it over the sink, steam rising as the water drains away, leaving soft curls of pasta behind. Setting it back on the stove, I turn my attention to plating—scooping a generous pile of pasta onto two plates, followed by the thick, velvety sauce. It spills over the edges, vibrant and inviting, a small promise of warmth shared at the table.

I hope he loves it. Lord, I hope he likes it at least. Forget about giving me the way to his heart, Ishaan won't even talk to me if I ruin his favourite food.

The ring of the doorbell startles me, making me jump in my place. I hastily put away the cooking utensils in the sink before keeping the hot plates of pasta on the kitchen island. It takes me another minute to mentally prepare myself, as I strip off the apron clingy to my body and pat down the red skirt reaching down to my knees.

Why am I so nervous?

My feet lead me to the heavy door of my apartment, each step slower than the last. I pause for a moment, taking in a final, steady breath before unlocking the door.

My gaze locks with the same glittering brown eyes that I've fallen so madly in love with. They shimmer with the familiar spark of mischief and unbridled chaos I'd grown so used to, yet beneath it all lies something new, something I've come to recognize over time—affection.

"Hello, ma belle," Ishaan's deep, edgy voice cuts through the air, unravelling the knots that had twisted in my stomach just moments ago. A smile spreads across my face almost instinctively. His eyes glimmer with something unreadable, a spark I can't quite place before he steps closer. His arm snakes around my waist, pulling me flush against his broad chest, the warmth of his presence grounding me completely.

"Hi.." I whisper back, flustered by his behaviour. He lets out a soft chuckle before placing a gentle kiss on my heated cheeks, his finger caressing my back in a gentle comforting way.

Ishaan takes a deep breath, his eyes closed as if savouring the moment before he hums in deep satisfaction. A mischievous smile plays on his lips before he speaks again.

"Whatever you cooked, it smells fucking delicious. My mouth is watering already,"

I shake my head with a soft laugh, the glimmer of hope I'd nearly lost for my cooking slowly starting to creep back in.

"I hope it's delicious, I fear you might leave me if I end up messing up your favourite food," I say, with amusement.

He doesn't seem to share the humour I found in my words. His brows knit together in clear disappointment, and the grip which he had around my waist since he walked in, tightens. The subtle motion sends heat blooming across my skin beneath the thin barrier of my clothes.

"Well, that's just straight-up stupid of you to think, Anvi. Tumhe lagta hai main tumko itni aasani se chordunga?" He questions softly.

(You think I'll leave you so easily?)

Awwww why is he so cute??

I chuckle softly before throwing my arms around his neck and pulling him into a hug. The woody scent of his cologne makes my skin heat up more than it already was, shooting straight down to the place between my thighs.

"I was just kidding," I whisper in response, tightening my arms around him. "Of course, I don't think you'll leave me so easily, you've been getting on my nerves ever since forever!" I joke.

My words draw an unexpected laugh from him as his arms snake around my waist, pulling me closer. In one smooth motion, Ishaan lifts me off the ground, his movements slow and deliberate. He steps inside, shutting the door behind him with a soft click before turning the lock.

"And I'll get on my nerves for, forever," he whispers into my ears.

And, without warning, he spins me around, causing a startled yelp to escape my lips, which quickly morphs into uncontrollable giggles as his laughter blends with mine, filling the room with warmth.

. . .

"At this point, you should open a restaurant, I'll be your first customer," Ishaan hums, taking in another bite of the pasta set in front of him. My face brightens up at the compliment and my legs jump up and down in their place.

"You really like it that much? Or are u lying just because I cooked it?" I question him with suspicion, which makes him shake his head.

He picks up the empty plate beside him, before plating a big spoonful of the dish onto it. He adds a slice of garlic bread to the side, along with one of my shiny forks and passes it across the narrow kitchen island, towards me.

"Eat and see for yourself, Ma belle, I'm not lying," he says before going in for another bite of the pasta.

I look at the dish sceptically, before going in with the fork and taking a bite of the saucy noodles I had made. As I savour the food, my eyes widen in surprise, and I go in for another taste, making sure I won't fool my tongue. I moan as the taste of the red sauce pasta bursts with tangy warmth, the tomatoes rich and slightly sweet, balanced by a hint of garlic and herbs. A subtle spice lingers, adding just enough heat to keep each bite irresistible.

It's simple, bold, and utterly comforting. Something I didn't expect it to turn out to be like.

"See? It's good, no it's great," Ishaan declares, his plate now empty, as he leans back against his chair with a satisfied expression on his face.

I nod in agreement, still savouring the last bite of pasta. "You're right, it did turn out pretty great. I guess all that worrying was for nothing."

Ishaan leans forward, resting his elbows on the kitchen island. "You know, I've always wondered something about you," he says, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Oh? And what's that?" I ask, intrigued.

"How is it that you can whip up these amazing meals, but you still manage to burn toast every single morning?"

I gasp in mock offence, flicking a stray noodle at him. "I do not burn toast every morning!"

"Oh really?" he chuckles, dodging the pasta projectile. "What about last Tuesday? Or the Friday before that? Or-"

"Okay, okay!" I interrupt, laughing. "Maybe I do have a slight tendency to get distracted when making breakfast. But in my defence, mornings are not my strong suit."

Ishaan grins, reaching across the island to take my hand. "I know, and it's adorable. I love how you stumble around like a zombie until you've had your coffee."

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks. "Well, not all of us can be disgustingly chipper morning people like you."

"Ah, but that's why we work so well together," he says, his thumb tracing circles on my palm. "I'd make sure you don't burn the house down before noon, and you..." He pauses, his eyes softening. "You make every day brighter just by being in it."

My heart swells at his words, and I'm momentarily at a loss for how to respond. Ishaan has always had a way of catching me off guard with his sincerity.

"You're such a sap," I finally manage, but my voice comes out soft and full of affection.

He grins, unabashed. "Only for you, ma belle."

He brings my hand up to his lips before placing a soft kiss on the back of it, and we sit in comfortable silence for a moment, just enjoying each other's presence.

Until I realised I had forgotten the one thing which was supposed to completely tie the dinner together. I let out a groan, annoyed at myself for forgetting before dropping my head on the table with a small thud.

Ishaan, seeming confused by my actions rubs my hand softly with comfort before questioning me, "Kya hua Jaan? Why so frustrated suddenly? Did u finally realise that staying with me will be a huge headache for you?"

I let out a laugh under my breath and sat up again before waving him off.

"Shut up, you're not a headache, I just forgot something very very extremely important for the meal.." I let out a sigh and stared at Ishaan.

"And that is? This meal was already perfect, unless it's you served on a platter for dessert, I don't know what can make it any better" He responded, a smirk curling up on his face.

I roll my eyes at his suggestive comment, swatting a hand in his direction.

"Tsk, always with the dirty thoughts," I grumble, but it only makes his smirk deepen, his eyes glinting with mischief.

Shaking my head, I slide off the chair and make my way to the last cabinet in the kitchen. Stretching onto my toes, I reach up and grab a sealed bottle of red wine. Spinning on my heels, I turn to face Ishaan, who's already watching me with a spark of curiosity in his eyes. I hold up the bottle with a little wave, a teasing smile tugging at my lips.

"This would've made it perfect," I say, pulling out a pair of wine glasses from the cabinet.

I set the bottle down on the counter and gathered up our dirty plates and bowls, stacking them neatly before carrying them to the sink to deal with later. Opening one of the drawers, I pull out a wine opener and place it in front of Ishaan with a subtle raise of my brow, silently passing the task to him.

"Open it please?" I ask in the most polite way possible.

He grins at my tone, before grabbing the bottle beside me and using the open to uncork it. My eyes take the opportunity to admire him, my gaze glides over his form, savouring the sight of navy blue fabric stretched taut across his chest and biceps. The sleeves folded up to his forearms, showcasing the prominent veins that pulse beneath the surface. My gaze lingers on his long fingers, imagining their touch against my skin as I feel a warmth spreading through me, causing me to rub my thighs together.

I'm pulled back to the memory of Kanishk Bhaiya's wedding—the way Ishaan's hands moved over me, the soft kisses he trailed along my back, each touch igniting a fire I hadn't known existed. His hands had hovered so dangerously close to the place that could unravel every ounce of control I had. Good lord.

I'm brought back to reality as I feel a heavy hand pull me close by my waist, seeking my attention. I peer down at Ishaan, his head tilted in question, eyes beaming with unmatched mischief.

"Kidhar khoi hui ho?" He asks teasingly.

I feel warmth rushing to my cheeks and I tear my gaze away from his before clearing my throat, "N...Nothing, just work shit, you know the daily," I say, trying to play it off cooly yet failing miserably.

"Uh-huh, as you say," Ishaan waves me off with a grin on his face, before pouring me a glass of wine.

He hands it to me, his long fingers brushing against mine, the faint touch sending an unexpected shiver down my spine. Picking up his glass, he raises it in a small toast, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips, before clinking it lightly against mine. Then, without hesitation, he tips it back, draining the drink in one go. I stare at him, speechless, disbelief etched across my face as I process how casually he polished it off like that.

"You're supposed to savour it, Ishaan! Not drink it just like that!" I scold him, my eyebrows digging into my forehead.

Ishaan lowers his head, his lips hovering just millimetres from mine. As he stares into my eyes, I can feel the intensity of his unspoken actions and words radiating off of him. My heart races as I hold my breath in anticipation, the hand clutching my wine glass trembling with both excitement and nerves. Sensing my unease, Ishaan gracefully takes the glass from my hand and sets it down on the table, his touch hot on my skin.

( ***The scenes from now on are explicit and may affect you based on your choice. Please pause here if you are uncomfortable with such things, and kind do NOT report the story. You've been warned)

"Fuck wine, It's you I want to savour," He whispers, before locking our lips together.

A deep, primal moan escapes my throat as I surrender to his kisses, my hand reaching up to his nape. His lips are intoxicating, still carrying the lingering taste of sweet wine that we had shared earlier. As if I wasn't already close enough, Ishaan pulls me closer, pressing his body against mine. His tongue dances with mine, exploring every inch of my mouth and igniting a fire in my veins. A sensuous groan slips past his lips, sending shivers down my spine and pooling heat in the pit of my stomach.

The heat between us intensifies with every passing second, my body pressing against his hard frame. I let out a surprised gasp as I feel his arousal press against me, igniting a fire within me that is impossible to ignore. My hand travels up his neck and into his curly hair, pulling him closer as our tongues dance in a heated tango. I can feel the tension building up inside of me, ready to explode at any moment.

Ishaan breaks the kiss abruptly, leaving me gasping for air. His lips linger on mine for a moment before he pulls away, his warm breath caressing my face like a gentle breeze. I can feel the heat radiating from his body as he leans his forehead against mine, his fingers tracing circles on my skin. The intensity in his gaze sends a shiver down my spine, igniting a fire of desire within me. My heart races as I meet his eyes, lost in the moment and the overwhelming passion between us.

Without warning, he lifts me carrying me in his arms. I wrap my legs around his waist, holding onto him tightly as we continue our passionate kisses. The sensation of being carried by him only adds to the intensity of the moment.

He gently places me on the kitchen island before spreading my legs open and standing between them, his lips trailing down my neck and collarbone. His hands roam all over my body, sending delicious sparks through every inch of my skin.

My fingers fumble with the buttons on his shirt, desperate to feel more of him. I want him just as much as he wants me and nothing will stop us from giving in to this burning desire. As soon as I undone each small button, my fingers trembling with anticipation, I push his shirt off his broad shoulders and revel in the sight of his well-sculpted chest. The definition of each muscle is highlighted by the low light of the kitchen, making him appear even more chiselled and irresistible.

My hands instinctively reach out to trace the lines and curves, feeling the warmth radiating from his skin. A shiver runs down my spine as I explore every inch of his body, losing myself in the sensation of his smooth skin beneath my fingertips. He lets out a low groan of satisfaction which only urges me on further.

I peel my hands away from him, before grabbing the hem of my black top. I look into his eyes, his orbs screaming with desire. A sudden shyness takes over me, as I hesitate to take off my top. Ishaan notices my hesitation, before he leans closer to me, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "we won't do anything you don't want to my love," he whispers, making my heart pound with admiration.

I shake my head slowly before coming up to meet his eyes again, "I want this, I want you, I..." I hesitate for a moment, "I want us Ishaan, despite what anyone else says... I really really want us... not just sexually, I want you until we grow old, I want you through your ups and especially through your downs. Man, I think I want your babies too... although it's probably too early for that..." I chuckle softly. "I'll always want you, more than yesterday, less than tomorrow, forever."

Ishaan lets out a deep breath before a smile morphs on his face, and he leans in again to steal a kiss from my lips.

"I'm yours for years to come, We've us forever and always. I love you, Anvi... more than any words I can ever say," He says, his voice holding a softness I wish to savour for a long while.

"I love you, Ishaan, I love you so much," I whisper, before pulling him in for another kiss, this one more soft and gentle, pouring my admiration and love into it.

I'm left smiling as Ishaan pulls away, his eyes linger on mine before he gently gets a hold of the hem of my top.

"May I?" he whispers.

I give a small nod, feeling my cheeks flush with warmth at his gentlemanly behaviour. His hands move slowly as he lifts the fabric of my top away from my body, revealing my skin to the cool air. With a flick of his wrist, he tosses the cloth behind me and gazes at me in awe, seemingly forgetting to even breathe for a moment. His eyes trace every curve and line of my body, taking in every inch with a mixture of wonder and desire.

With a gentle exhalation of breath, he whispers, "You are stunning." He leans forward to place a gentle kiss on my forehead, his lips warm and comforting against my skin.

I feel a shiver run down my spine as his soft kisses trace a path down my shoulder blade, caressing every curve and dip of my body. His lips continue their journey, gliding over the roundness of my breasts before slowly making their way down to my stomach, pausing at the edge of my skirt. The soft touch of his lips sends a rush of heat through me, stirring a longing deep in my core.

He guides my legs apart, his hands sliding up the smooth fabric of my skirt, his gaze filled with a mix of intense desire and unwavering adoration. Every touch, every kiss, sends waves of pleasure through me, leaving me breathless and yearning for more.

With a gentle but confident tug, he pulls aside the delicate lace fabric of my panties, revealing the glistening folds beneath. My body trembles with anticipation as his skilled fingers begin their playful dance against my wet and aching entrance. I can't help but moan softly as his fingers continue to tease and spread my arousal, sending waves of pleasure radiating through my body.

A low, guttural moan escapes his lips as he buries his face between my thighs, his tongue tracing a heated path over my skin. The sensation sends shivers down my spine and ignites a fire within me. His skilled movements elicit a gasp from my lips as I arch my back a loud needy whimper arising from my lips.

The sensations Ishaan's skilled tongue brings to my body are beyond words. It's as if every nerve in my skin is on fire, tingling with pleasure under his touch. His fingers explore and tease me, sending jolts of electricity through me, while his lips press against the most sensitive parts of my body. My breath comes out in gasps and moans, my hands gripping his hair as he continues to pleasure me with his mouth. The room is filled with the scent of our desire, a heady mix of sweat and arousal that only adds to the intense sensations coursing through my body.

Ishaan lifts his head for a moment, a smug grin spreading across his face, before diving back between my legs. His strong hands gently part me, exposing the most intimate parts of me to his exploring tongue. With skilled precision, he licks and teases every inch of my core, savouring the taste of my arousal. My hips involuntarily buck against him as he expertly manoeuvres his way to my most sensitive spots, driving me closer and closer to the brink of release with each flick of his tongue and nip of his teeth. Every sensation is amplified, from the soft brush of his lips to the sharp sting of his bites. I am completely lost in the pleasure he is giving me, gasping and moaning as I cling to the edge of release that he holds me on.

"God, you taste so good," he groans against me, making me gasp at the vibrations.

My body curls and bends with each movement of Ishaan's skilled tongue, his pace picking up as he delves deeper into me. The coil of pleasure within me tightens with every flick and swirl of his tongue until it finally snaps, sending me crashing over the edge into a sea of ecstasy. Wave after wave of intense pleasure courses through my body, consuming me in its intoxicating embrace.

My entire being trembles and shakes uncontrollably as Ishaan's skilled mouth continues to work its magic, drawing out a guttural cry of pleasure and his name from my lips. His tongue swirls and dips, teasing every sensitive nerve ending until I am gasping for air. Finally, with a smug smile on his face, he pulls away, leaving me sated and breathless. I collapse back onto the table, panting heavily as I try to catch my breath.

"That was incredible," I manage to say between breaths, my heart still pounding from the intensity of what just happened.

Ishaan's smile is a beautiful mix of tenderness and desire as he leans in for a kiss. Our lips meet in a gentle soft kiss, our bodies pressed close together as we melt into each other. His hands roam freely over my skin, igniting every nerve ending with electricity. My own hands travel up his back, exploring the contours of his muscles. The heat and urgency between us morphed into soft and sweet love. I smile between the kiss, my body leaning into his, recognising it as a source of comfort.

I feel consumed by him – body, heart and soul – and it's the most amazing feeling in the world.