“God! I hate that bitch so much,” Rizwan said, shaking his head in disgust.

I glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. He was still fuming about Mariyam, the girl who’d somehow managed to involve my father in her crazy plan to marry Siddique.

“I know, right,” I replied, popping a piece of popcorn into my mouth, trying not to laugh at his dramatic reaction.

We were sitting on the floor of his room, surrounded by snacks and watching Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses. This was probably my twentieth time watching it, but I never got tired of it. It was a nice distraction from all the chaos happening around me.

“Naaz, have you seen her?” Rizwan continued, his tone dripping with irritation. “She looks like a witch. A fucking witch!” He shoved a chip into his mouth as if he needed to fuel his irritation.

“I know, right?” I agreed, taking a sip of my cold drink. “I can’t stand her.”

“Me too.” He nodded, serious. “Have you seen her hair? It’s so black and long. Such witch vibes.”

“Absolutely,” I replied, trying to stifle a laugh. She did have longer hair than mine, and okay, I was a little jealous of it… but that was all.

“Did you notice her nails? They’re so long, and she always paints them black. Ew!” He made a disgusted face, shoving another handful of popcorn into his mouth.

I shrugged, “Really? I never noticed her that closely.”

“Trust me,” he nodded. “Witch nails. I swear, she looks like she’s straight out of a horror movie.”

“Well, I hope she disappears like one,” I replied, grinning. “Before I make her.”

“Definitely!” he cheered, giving me a thumbs up.

I laughed, enjoying how dramatic he was.

"Movie?"

"Yeah," we focus back on the movie. At least he did.

A sudden thought drifted into my mind about his new crush from medical college. Rizwan seemed to develop a crush on every beautiful girl he met, a stark contrast to his brother---my Siddique.

Unlike Rizwan’s fleeting fascinations, Siddique’s feelings were deep and steady. The thought of Siddique made my heart swell, but it also brought a twinge of sadness that clouded my mood.

Just two days ago, at a cozy corner of our favorite café, Siddique had told me he wanted to stop sneaking into my house at night. The words stung. I’d grown used to our midnight visits, the comfort of his arms, and the thrill of being close to him even if it meant risking everything. When he first suggested it, I felt a rush of disappointment, even frustration. For a fleeting moment, I’d thought of distancing myself from him until we were officially married.

But that man—my sweet, thoughtful Siddique—knew exactly how to coax away my disappointment. With the patience he always showed, he explained the reason behind his decision. He was doing it for my mom. She wanted to be there for me at night until I was married, and she had even shared her feelings with his mom, teary-eyed as she asked for just a bit more time to watch over me. Understanding how important this was to my mom, Siddique had decided, out of love and respect for her, to wait. It was selfless, and it reminded me of the kind, caring man he was.

Now, at night, it was just me and my mom in my room, talking and laughing, just like we used to when I was younger. I’d come to love the bonding time with her, but still, I couldn’t ignore the hollow feeling left behind. I missed Siddique’s warm, protective arms around me, his comforting manly cologne, the way he’d leave sweet notes on my bedside table, wishing me goodnight. I missed our cuddles and the feel of his lips brushing mine as we shared our goodnight kisses. But in my heart, I knew we’d be together soon, and this time, it would be forever.

“Where are you lost?” Rizwan’s voice cut through my thoughts, pulling me back to the present.

I blinked and gave him a small smile, “Nowhere,” I lied, a bit flustered. Then, eager to change the subject, I teased, “But you tell me about your new crush. Who is she?” I shot him a playful smile, watching as he blushed and looked away, clearly embarrassed.

His face turned red.

“Cute,” I murmured to myself.

“Her name is…” He blushed again, making me grin. “Samira.”

“Ooh, Samira,” I teased. “Very nice. Good choice.”

“Stop!” he protested, but his cheeks were still bright pink. "It's just a crush."

“My cute Rizu,” I cooed, reaching over to pinch his cheek.

“Nazu!” He shoved my hands away, irritated.

I laughed, and he quickly tried to change the topic, “Let’s watch the movie, yeah?”

“Fine, fine.” But I couldn’t resist teasing him one last time. “So… are you going to propose to her?”

“Propose to who?” Siddique’s voice came out of nowhere, startling us both. He was standing in the doorway, arms crossed, with a stern look that had us both on edge.

Rizwan, trying to keep his cool, quickly answered, “No one.”

“Uh… just a girl,” I added innocently.

"Nazu," Rizwan chided, knowing he'll get scolded now.

Siddique’s glare sharpened. “I thought I told you not to date anyone right now. You’re a kid.”

Rizwan, unfazed, shot back, “Yes, I can date!” His eyes lit up at the thought.

"Priorities," I thought with a grin.

Siddique’s disappointed look was priceless. “You’re eighteen, Rizwan. Eighteen. Don't you dare do anything stupid? I won't tolerate that.”

Rizwan shrugged, trying to act indifferent. “I know my age, but I’m not proposing. She’s just my crush. I like her.”

“Then why did Naaz say you were proposing?” Siddique asked, his eyes narrowing as he looked between us.

“She was just teasing me,” Rizwan said, flopping onto his bed like a dead fish, sprawled out as if he owned the whole bed.

He does.

I pushed his legs away, scowling. “Jerk, sleep like a human.”

Siddique gave Rizwan one more glance before looking at me. “Naaz, come to my room.” His voice was low, his tone firm. He didn’t wait for an answer, disappearing down the hall.

As soon as he left, Rizwan sat up, giving me a mischievous grin.

“What?” I asked, already exasperated.

“I can see your future, Naaz.” He grabbed my hands, pretending to read my palm like a fortune teller.

“Oh, really? What do you see?” I asked, rolling my eyes, knowing he was about to say something ridiculous.

“That, my brother will pin these hands against the wall and kiss you.” He gave me a dramatic wink.

I yanked my hands away, my face growing hot. “He’s not calling me for that. We never kissed.” I lied.

“Please, Naaz.” He scoffed. “If you’d told me that before I knew about you two sneaking around, maybe I’d believe you. But now? Romeo is definitely up to something. Be prepared.” He laughed, his grin playful.

I shook my head, but my heart was beating a little faster as I made my way to Siddique’s room. Could he really be planning something like that?

When I reached his door, I noticed it was closed, so I knocked.

Once.

Twice.

Just as I was about to knock again, he opened it, and I took in the sight of him, leaning against the doorframe in a dark blue T-shirt and black trousers. He looked incredible, and my heart skipped a beat.

“Done?” he asked, his voice pulling me out of my thoughts.

“Huh?” I looked at him, confused.

“Done checking me out?” he said, a teasing smile tugging at his lips.

My face turned red, and I tried to stammer out a reply, but he just moved aside, letting me step inside. He closed the door and locked it with a quiet click.

“Why did you lock the door?” I asked, my voice barely a whisper.

“For this.”

Before I knew it, he’d closed the distance between us. His hands found my waist, pulling me closer as he pressed me gently against the door, his lips capturing mine in a kiss that was both gentle and filled with an intensity that took my breath away.

His lips moved against mine, slowly at first, savouring each touch, each soft breath between us. But as the kiss deepened, a hunger sparked between us, igniting every inch of my skin. His hands slid from my waist up my back, pulling me closer, as though the space between us was unbearable.

Pressed against the door, I could feel my heartbeat racing, matching the rhythm of his kisses. My fingers found their way into his hair, threading through the soft strands, as I tilted my head to give him better access. His hands settled on my hips, and he lifted me slightly, so that our bodies fit together perfectly, every inch of us in sync. He gently nipped at my bottom lip, his breath warm and steady, sending a shiver down my spine.

Then, with a soft growl, he pulled back, his dark eyes scanning my face as if memorizing every detail. Without a word, he scooped me up, his strong arms holding me effortlessly as he carried me to his bed. He laid me down gently, the softness of the sheets cool beneath me as he leaned over, his gaze never leaving mine.

His fingers traced along my jawline, his touch feather-light, before his lips met mine again. This time, the kiss was slower, more sensual, as if we had all the time in the world. His hand travelled down, brushing against my collarbone, lingering at my waist, and then moving lower to my hip, his touch making my sin tingle with anticipation.

I felt myself arch toward him, lost in the warmth of his body, his scent, and the feel of his fingers tracing small circles along my skin. He paused for a second, his forehead resting against mine, our breath mingling as he whispered, "I've missed this, Naaz. I've missed you."

A soft smile broke through the haze of desire, and tightened my arms around him, pulling him down to me once more, feeling the warmth of his body against mine. Every kiss, every touch felt like a promise, a reminder that soon, nothing would separate us.

"I can't wait to make you mine," he growled.

"Me too," I can't wait to be his. By all means.

He leaned down again, his lips tracing a slow path along my jaw, then lower, brushing across the sensitive skin of my neck. Each kiss was deliberate, igniting a spark that left my skin tingling, as if he were claiming every inch of me with his touch. His hand slipped beneath the hem of my dress, his fingers grazing my naked waist, warm and possessive, teasing in a way that left me breathless.

A soft moan escaped me, my fingers tightening in his hair as he kissed a line down to my shoulder. The way he was moving made it impossible to think clearly, my mind focused on every sensation as he took his time exploring. He shifted his weight, bringing his hand up, his fingers tracing gentle circles over the fabric covering my breasts. The touch was light at first, but he gradually increased the pressure, making my heart race as his hand lingered, his thumb brushing over me with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine.

l arched into him, gasping softly as his lips moved lower, pressing kisses along my collarbone, then dipping just a bit lower, close enough that his breath brushed against my skin, leaving me craving for more.

"Can't wait to see what you're hiding underneath these clothes,"

His hand slipped back down to my waist, fingers pressing in a way that made me feel grounded and breathless at once. His touch, his presence, everything about him was overwhelming, and I couldn't hold back the small sounds that escaped me, each one seeming to fuel his movements as he held me tighter.

He pulled back slightly, meeting my gaze, his eyes dark with a mixture of desire and adoration, before he leaned in to capture my lips again, this time more fiercely, as if to remind me that I was his.... now and always.

His touch, his kiss, everything about him consumed me, and I knew that I was completely lost in him.

The feeling of his hands kneading my clothed breasts, his lips teasingly brushing against my skin, and his hard cock pressing against my clothed core was driving me insane---making me so desperate for release. When he sucked on the sensitive spot on my neck, it was the final straw. My body started to shudder, on the verge of letting go.

But then, he stopped.

He pulled back, leaving me frustrated. Sexually frustrated.

"Siddique, I need you," I pleaded, my voice laced with desperation. for him, aching for his touch.

"Naaz, we can't do this," he shook his head, denying me.

"Please?" I begged, almost pathetically. "I need you, baby. Please."

It sounded pitiful, even to my own ears.

Siddique's gaze softened as he placed a tender kiss on my forehead. "Naaz, promise," he murmured gently. "After we're married, I'll fulfill your needs, desires, and fantasies. Everything you want, I'll give you." His lips brushed against mine again briefly before he added, "We're getting married in a week. Just a little longer, okay?"

I sighed, knowing he was right, but the desire still burned inside me. "But I need you now," I whispered, frustrated.

His thumb traced my cheek as he smiled. "You think I don't want you just as much? I do, Naaz. Trust me, I'm controlling myself too. But it's only a few more days. Then, there'll be no stopping us."

I finally nodded, understanding. He was right. We were so close to finally being together without any barriers. But the fire he ignited in me wouldn't go out that easily. To calm the swirling emotions, I leaned in and kissed him again, slow and passionate, pouring all my needs into it. He responded just as fiercely, his hands gripping my waist as he pulled me closer.

We broke apart when we heard Aunt Amina's voice from outside the door, her tone a bit stern. "Siddique, Naaz, come out now."

Rizwan's teasing voice followed, "Yeah, lovebirds, don't keep us waiting!"

We both froze for a second. "Great timing" I muttered.

Siddique chuckled softly before pressing one last kiss to my forehead. "You go first," he said, his voice low. "I need a minute."

I looked down, knowing exactly why he needed that time. He was still semi-hard, and I bit my lip, suppressing a smirk. Nodding, I fixed my clothes quickly and headed out.

As soon as I stepped into the living room, Rizwan gave me a teasing look. "How was it in there?" he wiggled his eyebrows.

I shot him a glare, ignoring him entirely, and focused on Aunt Amina, who was standing with her arms crossed.

"Naaz, dear," she began, her voice gentle but firm, "I understand how excited you both are, but it's important to maintain a little distance until the wedding. Just for a few more days."

I nodded, feeling slightly embarrassed but understanding. "I get it, Auntie."

"Good' she smiled warmly. "Now, the reason you came here in the first place was to go for your and Siddique's  engagement ring shopping. You, Siddique, and Rizwan need to head out soon."

Damn! I totally forgot about it.

I glanced at Rizwan, who was already dressed and practically bouncing on his feet with excitement. He loves shopping.

I couldn't help but chuckle, knowing how different he was from his brother. Siddique hated shopping, and as if on cue, he appeared from his room, looking as handsome as ever in his black polo T-shirt and matching slacks, his hair styled perfectly.

My eyes couldn't help but roam over him. He looked so good that it was impossible not to notice.

Rizwan caught my look and immediately jumped in, laughing. "Naaz, stop eye-fucking my brother in front of me!"

I felt the heat rush to my cheeks. "Rizwan!" l exclaimed, mortified, while everyone, including Siddique, chuckled at my red face.

"Let's just go," I muttered in irritation, quickly walking toward the door to escape their teasing. Siddique and Rizwan followed behind, still grinning.

Assholes.

It took us about an hour to reach the jewelry store, and the whole time Rizwan chatted non-stop about how excited he was for the wedding. I think he might be more excited than the two of us combined.

Once at the store, Siddique and I started looking at rings, with Rizwan enthusiastically giving his opinions on every design.

Eventually, we both settled on simple platinum wedding bands. They were almost identical, except mine had a large diamond at the center. They were perfect.

After the ring shopping, Rizwan started begging to go to a fast-food restaurant. As usual, Siddique wanted to deny it, but when I gave him a pleading look, he caved.

"Fine" he sighed. "Let's go."

Rizwan, ever the drama queen, clutched his heart dramatically. "See? My brother doesn't love me anymore. He only listens to Naaz now!"

Siddique shot him a sarcastic look. "Maybe if you acted like less of a child, I'd listen to you."

"I hate you. You always scold me." Rizwan pouted, looking absolutely cute.

Siddique pulled his cheeks calling him, "Cute,"

Rizwan smiled in glee and pulled his cheeks back, "My cute big brother,"

"Shut up," Siddique chided. He hates when some call him cute.

Cute Khan brothers.

I laughed at their banter as we made our way to the restaurant.

Once we were seated, Siddique handed us the menu, and both Rizwan and I spent at least twenty minutes discussing what to order. After all that time, we ended up choosing the same regular order we always got.

Siddique rolled his eyes in frustration. "You two really took half an hour to decide, just to pick the usual?"

I ignored him, smiling sweetly as Rizwan volunteered to place the order. "I'll go! I'm starving," he said excitedly, rushing off.

Siddique called him back as he forgot take money from him. Rizwan apologized to him, seeing him pissed. But he kept silent, and quickly gave him two notes of thousands then Rizwan was gone, again running like a kid.

"What do I do with this guy?" Siddique groaned. "Idiot."

"Stay calm," I said softly, taking his hand in mine.

"I'm calm," he muttered, though it was clear he wasn't.

I kissed his palm, making him relax. "Now you're calm."

He smiled at me, his eyes soft. "Because you're my lobster."

I giggled.

A few days ago, we had watched FRIENDS, and now he had taken to using its lines. It seemed like he had enjoyed the show more than I realized.

Our laughter faded when we suddenly heard Rizwan's angry voice from the counter.

"What's going on?" I asked, frowning.

Siddique's expression hardened as we both stood up. I caught a glimpse of Mariyam, and my heart sank.

"What is she doing here?" my breath as we rushed toward Rizwan, who was now arguing with Mariyam.

This wasn't going to end well.

••

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