"Would you like to have a memorable dance with me, Ms. Nasr?" I offered calmly, confident she wouldn't decline the offer.

"No," she said, once again proving me wrong.

The surroundings were filled with people dancing with their partners, the loud music amplifying the beauty of the atmosphere. But honestly, the place couldn't compare to her. No matter how much I claimed to hate her, I found myself drawn to her. She's like a dark ocean-mesmerizing from a distance but dangerous, capable of swallowing me whole if I dare to step closer. At times, she feels like alcohol-bitter, yet intoxicating. And sometimes, she resembles a delicate flower, one that deserves to be cherished, admired, but never plucked.

No matter how hard I try to keep her out of my thoughts, she's the only thought I think.

What's pulling me toward her? Her beauty? Her soul? Or the audacity with which she declines everything I offer?

You surely can't melt me, Ms. Aleena.

"You're dancing with me," I said, this time in a cold tone. It wasn't a request; it was a command.

"I hate dancing," she responded with the same harshness.

I stood beside her, one hand securely placed around her intoxicating waist, casually caressing it, and the other holding a cold glass of juice. My gaze was fixed on her expressionless face, while hers was locked onto the dance floor. Her eyes betrayed her; they screamed that she wanted to dance, but her stubbornness held her back.

"Then I guess we should definitely dance, because I enjoy everything you hate, love." I squeezed her waist lightly. She instantly looked up, her death glares aimed straight at me, as if she could kill me with her eyes alone. Yet, my idiotic heart reacted strangely to her dangerous stare.

I wondered-if her death stares could melt this heartless heart, what would happen if she looked at me with warmth, with love, with anything but hate? Would I fall for her? Or am I already falling?

"Then I hate myself too. So, do you love me, Mr. Riaz?" Her tone was calm yet sharp. There was no trace of anger in her voice, just a strange hope lingering on her face. For the first time, I was left speechless by her question.

Do I love her?

Before I could process my thoughts, a dry smile appeared on her face. She looked at me briefly before moving her gaze back to the dancing crowd.

"You're dancing, and that's final," I said firmly, grabbing her hand.

She yanked it away smoothly, crossing her arms.

"Ask me in a way I can't refuse," she said, her sharp tone mesmerizing me. Her confidence was just the cherry on top.

I smiled at her challenge, placed the glass on the table, and stood in front of her.

"Ms. Aleena Nasr, the heartless CEO, may I have the pleasure of dancing with you and making this moment unforgettable?" My voice was calm like a gentle breeze, my expression peaceful, as I extended my hand toward her.

"Sure," she replied, smiling shyly before blushing and looking down to hide the crimson tint spreading across her soft cheeks.

In that moment, the small mole above her lips caught my attention, stealing my breath.

She slowly extended her hand, still looking down, and I grew restless at not seeing her face for even a second. Grasping her hand, I gently touched her chin, lifting it so I could see the face my eyes and heart longed for.

"Just look at me while we're dancing, love. I don't want your eyes wandering to anyone else, unless you want me to attend their funeral," I murmured softly, caressing her chin, though my tone carried a hint of warning.

Aleena didn't respond. Instead, she shifted her gaze to our intertwined hands. A faint smile appeared on her lips, only to disappear seconds later.

I didn't dwell on her reaction. Holding her hand, I led her to the dance floor.

The most iconic song, the one known to bring two souls closer, played in the background. With every beat of Sway Me More, I spun her around and pulled her even closer to me. She's undeniably an expert-every step she took matched the rhythm flawlessly. The way her entire body swayed made me restless, made me crave her more. Day by day, she's becoming my undeniable need, a need I can't live without anymore.

Is she truly this addictive? Do I need her now instead of simply wanting her?

"Why did Taimur come to your house?" I asked, my tone sharp. No matter how breathtaking or mesmerizing she looked, I couldn't forget the way his eyes lingered on what's mine, his hand touching that captivating waist that belongs to me, or him witnessing that smile that only I have the right to see.

"It has nothing to do with you," she replied calmly, fully engrossed in the dance steps.

"I am aware of it, love, but you see this freaking ring on your finger? It says you belong to that freaking fiance, and if that's me, then I have all the damn rights to know who the hell dared to meet you so early in the morning!" My temper flared even more as the image of him sitting close to her flashed in my mind.

"He's my friend!" Aleena snapped back, her tone matching mine. But before she could walk away, I pulled her close, close enough to hear her deep breaths against my chest. I harshly lifted her chin so she could meet my burning gaze, only to find her eyes redder than mine. She's the Queen of Boldness, and it's the thing I both love and hate about her.

"A male friend doesn't touch his female friend's waist early in the morning!" I gritted my teeth as I spat the words out. It amazes me how only she has the power to skyrocket my blood pressure and calm it simultaneously-with something as simple as the scent of her hair. I was ready to lash out again, but her hair distracted me, and I had to fight the restlessness she caused within me.

Does my heart ever listen to me? Never. Especially not when it comes to Aleena Nasr. I don't understand how one person can anger me and soothe me all at once. Is it just her or all of womankind?

"You're overreacting," she said casually, as if it were nothing. Overreacting? Seriously?

"Fine, then," I said, pretending to be unbothered. I let her go and walked past her, even though her puzzled expression was utterly adorable. I ignored her and offered another woman a dance. I hated myself for doing it, but she was the one who claimed I was overreacting about someone else touching her waist. If that's what she thinks, so be it.

The woman I asked agreed instantly, throwing herself at me. She was beautiful, but she wasn't her. And despite my attempt to distract myself, my traitorous eyes kept drifting toward that five-foot firecracker, who stood frozen in place, staring at me as if planning my death. I couldn't help the small smile that crept onto my lips.

Before I could even process her next move, Aleena marched toward me, and in an instant, the other woman was standing ten feet away. Aleena positioned herself in front of me, as if shielding me. While I could clearly see her what's happening in front of me, I stepped a bit, bending slightly to whisper near her ear.

"He's already taken, dear. And I don't think you'd want any trouble tonight-at least not from my side. Enjoy the party and leave," her tone was sharp, deadly even. The possessiveness in her words sent a thrilling wave through me, and I felt my stomach twist with pride.

Before I could dwell on it further, Aleena turned toward me, her dark eyes locking onto mine, piercing my soul with a silent warning. My feet betrayed me, refusing to move, leaving me standing there, bracing myself for the impending storm.

"And you, Mr. Asad Raez," she began, her voice laced with authority. "If I by chance see a single woman looking at you, standing beside you, or even ten feet away from you, I will kill you first for allowing it and then kill them second for daring to see what's mine. Mark that in your brilliant mind!" Her fiery declaration carried a hint of venom, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

Then, she took a step closer, her tone softening, becoming a weapon in itself.

"And..." she whispered seductively, her voice like silk as she leaned in.

"You belong to me," Her words sent a jolt through me, rendering me speechless. I couldn't think, couldn't breathe. Her new, possessive side had me completely undone.

"Are you jealous?" I asked, though I already knew the answer.

"I am," she whispered again, her voice even more seductive, and I nearly forgot we were in public. If we weren't, I would've silenced those tempting lips for making my heart race like this.

"You claim to be jealous, yet you don't even know your future surname properly, love?" I teased, gripping her waist firmly and pulling her closer to me. As soon as she was back in my arms, a wave of peace washed over me-the kind of peace I lost the moment we were apart, even for a few minutes.

"Aren't you Raez?" she asked with even more confidence, as though I was the one who had it wrong.

"If you want it to be Raez, I'll make it Raez," I said, surrendering completely to her without hesitation.

"So it's not Raez?" she asked, a trace of confusion crossing her extraordinary face, her cheeks turning a soft crimson.

"It's Riaz to the world," I explained, my voice softening.

"But it'll turn into Raez soon enough if you keep calling it that, love." I traced my fingers along her face, caressing the growing crimson blush on her cheeks, which deepened with every passing second.

"I..." she started to speak, and I waited patiently, enjoying the torment I was causing her with my gentle touch. My hand had now traveled to her jaw, and the urge to kiss it flared through me. But I held back-it was a public place, and I didn't want to cause a scene.

"I'll check on Ayesha," she finally whispered, her gaze dropping, her words barely audible. She yanked her hand free and turned to walk away, but I wasn't done yet.

Before she could leave, I grabbed her wrist, making her turn slightly to face me, her expression unreadable. This time, instead of pulling her toward me, I stepped closer, gently placing my hand on her waist. Her scent overwhelmed me, and as her figure brushed against mine, my heart skipped a beat.

"Love," I whispered dangerously close to her ear, watching as her ears turned a deep shade of red.

It wasn't just my touch-my words had the power to make her blush, and it was both adorable and maddening at the same time.

I slowly pushed her hair aside, revealing the bare skin of her neck. Thank goodness she had left her hair open. If her neck had been exposed earlier, I wouldn't have been able to resist leaving my mark. But now that it was in front of me, I couldn't miss the chance.

"What are you doing, Asad?" she asked coldly. Her use of my first name instead of "Mr. Raez" or "Riaz" was like drowning in her own well.

"Consider it my apology, love," I murmured loud enough for her to hear before pressing my lips against the back of her neck.

The moment my lips touched her soft skin, everything else in me faded away-my anger, my hatred, my need for revenge. All that remained was her scent, her presence, and the feeling of her against my lips.

I always thought only my eyes, breath, heart, and mind betrayed me when it came to her. But now, even my lips had turned traitor. No matter how much I wanted to stand upright and play the role of the cold-hearted man, my lips refused to leave her skin, as though they were glued to her. Summoning all my willpower, I finally straightened, controlling the storm of emotions she had unleashed within me.

"Done?" Aleena asked, her tone sharp. It wasn't a question; it was a taunt, as though she was challenging me to feel any shame for what I had just done in public.

"Take it as my apology," I teased, flashing her a grin before walking past her. Turning my head back slightly, I caught a glimpse of her face, which had turned as red as her deep red lipstick.

Her flushed face and fiery glare only made me smile wider. Unable to resist, I winked at her before walking off toward the hotel room.



Who says I'm blushing like hell?

Am I?

No!

Yes, yes, yes. And he's the reason for this reaction.

Why can't he just act like himself? Be cold, distant, and leave? Why does he have to throw my entire system into chaos? No matter how calm I may appear on the outside, inside, all my organs are at war with each other, trying to react in ways I don't even want to imagine.

As if my heart skipping beats wasn't enough, now my cheeks are burning because of him? And my stomach, what's your problem? I fed you-why are you jumping around like this? It feels like a mini boxing match is happening inside me. And his touch... even now, the memory of his touch on my bare neck makes me restless, leaving me wanting more.

What does Asad Raez-Riaz-think of himself? Does he think I won't melt after all this? Seeing how possessive he is? Seeing how crazy he is? Seeing how dangerous he is?

Yes, I will. I am melting, Mr. Asad.

But don't do all this if you can't love me back. Because I've started getting used to you. And if you ever leave, I'll be left with nothing but emptiness inside me.

I was lost in these thoughts, nibbling on some starters, when Ayesha's presence snapped me back to reality.

"Done with dinner? Are we staying in the resort or leaving, Aleena?" Ayesha's tone was different from when we first arrived. Her mood was noticeably better than anyone else's here.

"Ayesha?" I called her softly instead of answering her question.

"What?" she asked, giving me a pointed look. But her gaze betrayed her-it was obvious something was going on behind that sharp expression.

"Just spill the tea. I'm waiting." My mischievous smile only seemed to irritate her further.

"Not here. I'm tired," she replied dryly, shifting her gaze to the surroundings. Her eyes darted around, as though searching for someone.

"Looking for Dr. Zaid?" I teased.

"Yes----"

"No!" she snapped instantly, her eyes locking onto mine.

"As you say, Ms. Hayat. So, what do you think? Should we stay at the resort?" I didn't push her further since she looked tired.

"Let's ask Jasmine-"

"No one is staying at the resort."

A bold, husky voice interrupted before Ayesha could finish her sentence.

When we looked up, the most dangerous yet gorgeous man stood there. Adorned with a white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a few buttons undone, revealing his well-defined chest. Paired with perfectly tailored black formal trousers, his attire accentuated his flawless figure. His black hair was a beautiful mess, and his piercing gray eyes, holding entire galaxies within, gazed straight into my soul.

Asad stood before us, his presence dominating the space. Beside him was Dr. Zaid, who seemed more focused on Ayesha, who, in turn, was busy staring at the ground as if it were the most fascinating thing in the world.

"So, are we heading back?" I asked, trying to sound calm, though my voice betrayed my emotions.

"We're all staying at my farmhouse," Asad declared firmly, looking directly at me. It wasn't a suggestion or a request-it was an outright command.

"I think the resort is better," I disagreed, attempting to assert myself.

"This isn't safe, so kindly do me the honor of staying calm for a second, Ms. Aleena. All your luggage has already been sent to the farmhouse. Just follow us," he said sharply, leaving no room for argument. Without waiting for a response, he walked away, disappearing from sight.

Now, it was just me, Ms. Hayat, and Dr. Zaid left standing there.

Dr. Zaid stood still, his gaze fixated on Ayesha, who remained busy staring at the ground. The silence between them was deafening, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was definitely going on between these two. Not wanting to meddle, I left the two of them and went in search of Jasmine.

After five minutes of searching, I finally found her sitting at a table, devouring all the food placed before her. Jasmine truly lived up to her foodie reputation-she wouldn't rest until she tasted everything on the table.

I tapped her shoulder lightly, and she turned to face me, her mouth covered in chocolate ice cream. She looked exactly like a mischievous child who refuses to listen to their mom and ends up with their face and clothes smeared in food.

I grabbed some tissues from the table and began cleaning her face, irritated at how clumsy she always was.

"Why are you doing this, Aleena? Rehan could have done it," she said shamelessly. Not even a thank you or a sweet remark like, 'You don't have to do this, sweetheart.' Nothing!

But still have the false hope that Rehan would've taken care of her.

"You're truly shameless, Jasmine," I said, now roughly wiping the ice cream off her face.

"I am aware," she laughed, reaching for another spoonful of ice cream. But before she could take it, I grabbed her hand mid-air and pulled her to her feet.

"What?" she asked, annoyed.

"Sweetheart, it's already 12:00 a.m. It's time to leave," I said sweetly, picking up her phone and purse from the table.

"I don't want to go! I want to see him more," she pouted, her happiness vanishing in seconds.

"You'll see him even more-and much closer-because we're staying at Asad's farmhouse. Which means your dear Rehan is staying there too," I said quickly, not wanting her mood to sour.

"You're kidding, aren't you, Aleena?" She asked in shock.

That's the problem-no one ever believes me.

"I'm not kidding. Let's go." A slight smile appeared on her lips, and I led her outside.

There, the same sleek black Mercedes of Asad's was parked in front of us, with him standing near the passenger door.

"Was he waiting for me?" A sudden wave of hope surged within me for no reason. Just the thought of him waiting for me felt more beautiful than even his touch.

And within seconds, a sleek black Thar came into view, its powerful engine humming softly as it approached. Dr. Zaid stepped out with a composed yet purposeful expression.

Jasmine and I couldn't help but fix our gazes on the man who could rival Asad in looks. That is, until the thought of Ayesha killing us for even glancing at him flashed through our minds, prompting us to instantly turn our attention elsewhere. However, when we turned to the right, we saw Ayesha approaching us. Even at this hour, with her hair in a beautiful, effortless mess, she looked adorably breathtaking.

Ayesha walked slowly and stopped beside me, not daring to even glance at Dr. Zaid.

"Let's go, Ms. Hayat," Dr. Zaid said, his voice calm yet laced with something deeper. His tone didn't carry commands when he spoke to her; instead, it was filled with gentleness, and perhaps even a hint of teasing.

"Mr. Riaz, can I come with you guys?" Ayesha asked, completely ignoring Dr. Zaid's presence as if he didn't exist.

I glanced at Dr. Zaid, and the calm expression he had moments ago disappeared, replaced by a visible sadness that tugged at my heart. This isn't fair, Ayesha. If only I had a man like Dr. Zaid. I would run to him. But no, I have Asad-the ruthless one.

"What's wrong with you, Ayesha?" I whispered, exasperated at her unexpected question.

"Are you taking me, or should I book a cab?" she shot back through gritted teeth. Confused and frustrated, Jasmine and I gave in to her demand.

As she reached to open the back door of Asad's Mercedes, Dr. Zaid took heavy steps forward and opened the door for her.

He's so adorable. I love him now, I thought to myself, smiling. But as my brother-in-law, I added silently, because Ayesha wouldn't hesitate to send me to heaven if I dared think otherwise.

"Asad, I hope you don't mind me joining you guys. I'm afraid of driving right now. I fear I might lose my temper," Dr. Zaid said. His words weren't directed at us, and neither was his gaze. Instead, he looked directly into Ayesha's eyes, his tone sharp yet calm. But Ayesha ignored him again, sliding into the car without a word.

Despite the tension, Dr. Zaid closed the door calmly, though his clenched jaw and bulging veins betrayed his restless feelings. He walked around and got into the car beside Ayesha, leaving the four of us outside, baffled by the entire situation.

Rehan grabbed the keys from Dr. Zaid and offered Jasmine a ride. Being the dramatic queen she is, she pretended to think about it before agreeing. The two of them left first.

I turned to Asad, who had been staring at me without blinking since I arrived.

"If you're done staring, can we leave, Mr. Riaz?" I throwed the first taunt towards him, even though my foolish heart secretly enjoyed the way he only ever looked at me and ignored the other women present. There were plenty of beauties around, yet my man didn't spare them a glance-except for that one blonde woman who practically threw herself at him. The memory of that still made my blood boil.

But it was my fault. I shouldn't have made him angry. Perhaps now I understood how Asad must've felt when he saw Taimur close to me. But if he hates me, why does he get so jealous?

"And if you're done staring, can we leave, Ms. Nasr?"

His cold, husky voice broke my train of thought and my breath simultaneously. He had stepped closer-just inches apart-and the proximity made my stomach flutter wildly, as though a thousand punches and butterflies were wreaking havoc.

I nodded silently, my voice trapped somewhere in my throat.

Asad opened the car door for me, making my heart race even faster with his gentlemanly gesture. Once I was seated, he got in and started the engine. Both of us instinctively turned to glance back at the two doctors. Ayesha stared out the right window, while Dr. Zaid gazed out the left.

We exchanged a knowing look, sighing in unison at their dramatics.

The drive was the most peculiar and silent I'd ever experienced. Asad and I were never quiet around each other; we'd always find something to argue about. But these two? Their silence spoke louder than words. And despite the unspoken urge to talk to each other, Asad and I held back.

After an hour of awkward silence, we finally arrived at the most breathtaking sight-a mansion that looked even more luxurious than the resort.

The gates opened to reveal greyish-black walls that gave off an elegant, dark theme. It was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful houses I'd ever seen.

Asad parked the car, and several guards immediately stepped forward to open the doors for us. As I got out, I noticed Dr. Zaid's Thar already parked nearby, indicating that Jasmine and Rehan had arrived before us.

I took a step, intending to go to Ayesha, when I suddenly felt his firm hand gently grasp mine, pulling me inside with him.

"What is wrong with you, Asad?" I asked, utterly shocked. How could he just take me with him whenever he felt like it?

"It's better now. Just keep talking," he replied calmly, his pace slowing but his grip on my hand remaining firm.

And that was all it took to make me blush again. I turned my face to the side, trying to hide the crimson shade that spread across my betraying cheeks.

He will be the death of me one day, I'm sure of it. Ruthless Asad. But still, mine.

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