Osheen's Fan Fictions: KHUMAARI- The Nocturnal Beast, PART 12

KHUMAARI

The Nocturnal Beast

Part 12

Finally Found You

NOTE: Those who have read the teaser don't skip it here coz I have edited it.

Geet was enjoying the landscape that raced opposite to their car. It was beautiful particularly because the sky was clear n sun rays were cool, spreading an eerie calmness.

She was calm inside too.

Strangely, after last night she didn't feel strangled by fear. There was this belief in her-originated recently-that no matter what happened he wouldn't hurt her, not really. After her attack on him last night, her escape plan was self destructive. That was an unknown island, filled with wilderness she had no survival skills for. What she was thinking, to inscribe HELP' on sand across the coast so that somebody would save her ass? Crap. And what she did to him, she knew was justified-given what he did to her. And yet, she hated herself for hitting him. It was like... hitting herself. Tears that had streamed down her cheeks effortlessly weren't just of guilt from her first violent act.

Guess, the score was even; he attacked her dignity n she, his life, if anything, he had an upper hand on her because he saved her in the end despite her outrageous strike on him.

Keeping it all aside one thing actually scared her. She understood why he did that inhuman act. Anger was a strong emotion n jealousy worse. He had been in clutches of both. Lost control n did wrong. When he said he was human anyway? In the seven days that she had met n stayed with him, they now knew each other. Not everything yet many.

Geet recognized he was arrogant, smug, stubborn, ruthless, short-tempered yet honest n sometimes caring n Maan knew she was no less stubborn, that she held her grounds. She wasn't cruel like him but wasn't downright vulnerable either, a little but not completely. And thus, they had oddly attained a level of weird, mutual understanding.

The ride was silent for a long time. A slight smile played on Geet's lips whole time just because she wasn't on an island walled by sea from all sides.

They reached a landmark that Geet was way familiar with but they must have taken a different route to it because the road before she had no recollection of. From between two high mountains went the narrow road. This was one of her most favorite places. It was both fascinating n frightening. Rocky planes high up on both side, kissing the sky appeared to be closing upon you if you didn't escape fast.

This was the place from where the danger started. The area ahead was unpredictable, remote. You go further and everything went Man Vs Wild'. Temperature went lower n lower as you advanced up into the terrains; land covered with jungles n animals. No signals. If lost in the highlands, forget food, water would be found frozen in the rivers.

The lane ended, opening up for the journey as if wishing good luck. Where do you live?

A couple of hundred kilometers up from your town.

Oh. It must be very cold there?

Yeah but since the winters are withering the temperature will be... harmless.

I just hope you guys don't live in caves. She confessed sarcastically.

Oh, don't worry. We live in a Den.

Yay, party.

Maan removed his Fast track sunglasses n switched on the music player.

The song played n Geet furrowed her brows.

You can run. You can hide. But you can't escape my love.

Here-

What an idiotic song. She pushed the next button n glared at Maan.

I'm bringing sexy back

Them other boys don't know how to act

I think you're special, what's behind your back?

So turn around and I'll pick up the slack.

Her finger pressed the Green button again. Next song was worse.

Just tell me where to go and I'll take off my clothes for you (yeah)

(you know we had to do it again right?)

You're in total control and you're running the show

I'll do whatever you tell me baby

Baby I can come by and pick you up

We'll make love into the night, it's never eno-

Oh god.

She pushed Stop.

What the hell, you hear such shitty songs?

Excuse me, who are you calling shitty? Maan was offended. These are gods of music. Timberlake, Usher, Enrique.

Geet didn't know any one of them n the look on her face said it all. Maan couldn't believe it. You don't know Enrique?

What's surprising in it?

Freak! So what do you hear?

She didn't hear anything. Being grown up with three brothers n a father who was way too disciplined, she never thought about discovering the world of music or movies. What she knew was cooking, cleaning and WWE CDs that her bros watched. Her own century was in the books she read n people she liked to observe.

Vaguely, she remembered her mother listening to old classics, her melodious hum with the songs still breathing inside her. I like retro. She lied so that he wouldn't think of her as a total bore.

He made a face like he wanted to kill himself. Don't know why stars chose you for me. Although he had muttered under his breath, his words homed inside her heart.

That's very rude. Geet commented in a voice that didn't disclose the depth of her hurt. Why the hell am I hurt to be frank?

Don't expect an apology.

His arrogance made her blood boil. How will she live with him, for the time being? Geet wasn't thinking in long run. For your kind information, I don't want to be with you either.

He didn't replied n instead again started the player.

PLAY ME

You know I'm gon' get ya, yeah
Whatever it takes to, get there
No I won't drop you
Like everybody else does, oh yeah

Forget about your friends they don't care where we go
If they do, we will get lost in a crowd of people
I've been looking for you forever baby we go

Together baby we go, we go

Geet wondered if he had intentionally chosen that song. Anyways she let the music wash over her with the rush of air that made her hairs dance. Rather than talking to him she preferred the song. Their car zoomed over, shifting on a hilly road that carved its way through the mountains to take the voyagers where they wanted to be or leaving them in the hands of destiny.

In this crazy world of choices I've only got a few
Either you're coming with me, or I'm coming with you
Cause I finally found, I finally found you

You never have to worry if what I say is true
Girl I've been looking for you
And when I saw you I knew
That I finally found, I finally found you

I'm coming I'll get ya, yeah
We have a connection, that's right
Cause girl I'm not letting go I'm gonna make you feel right, oh yea

Forget about your friends they don't care where we go
If they do, look like lost, stand in a crowd of people
I've been looking for you forever baby we go Together baby we go, we go

Maan glanced at his side. She took his breath away, her baby soft skin glowing under the sun n hair let loose. Flooding wind did nothing to obstruct her scent. Intoxicating, purely n completely, she was his aphrodisiac n he was losing his senses uncontrollably.

I want her.

Maan heard his inner growl of raw need. He wanted to take her so badly, enter her with all the intense hunger that rendered him so weak n yearning. Thank god she didn't know how he felt. Last night after seeing her strength n vigor in the way she fought up to him-even after what he did-somehow completed her manifestation as the perfect partner in the eyes of his beast. And it wanted to unite with her, wanted to mate, bond. Claim her as his in that ultimate way.

He strained every moment, burned to feel. Maan turned his head away.

In this crazy world of choices I've only got a few
Either you're coming with me, or I'm coming with you
Cause I finally found, I finally found you
You never have to worry if what I say is true
Girl I've been looking for you
And when I saw you I knew
That I finally found, I finally found you

I finally found, I finally found you

[Sammy Adams]
(So can I get love
Too much to ask for really so tough
Find yourself movin with the sex of the drums
Got my hands full grabbin all these girls, girls
Hands up hands up
Dance floor chillin while I hold 2 cups
Can't stop spillin cuz I'm drunk as f***
And my song comes on and the club goes nuts
Every province I go, city I sleep it's best that y'all know
Runnin around and doing all these shows
Round the whole globe
I come and you go girl
And you need to think of it
Just arrive for the night
Baby live a bit
With a place to hit
And your pants to zip
Come make this thing a party
Are you into it)

In this crazy world of choices I've only got a few
Either you're coming with me, or I'm coming with you
Cause I finally found, I finally found you

Finally finally finally found you
Finally finally finally found
Finally found, I finally found you

You know Im gon' get ya

By the afternoon, their car halted outside a small restaurant. There was a fuel station n supply store beside it.

Are you hungry?

Not at all.

Maan snarled. I told you not to lie. His hand came out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. She recoiled because she desperately wanted to lean into his touch. How ghastly. The fancy roof of the Porsche closed over her head n Maan locked the car. As they entered the restaurant, Maan's nose wrinkled like he didn't approve. Geet rolled her eyes but was surprised when he asked for her view.

Will this do for you?

Yeah. Geet said an obvious tone in her voice.

Maan nodded n lead her to a table in the corner. Stance switched over to some commando-mode, he behaved like someone was going to jump them from under the table. He only relaxed once they had taken seats, that too just a bit.

Idiot! What's wrong?

Nothing.

Then what are you doing?

Am guarding you.

Dear lord. I am not Queen Elizabeth that I need guarding. She lowered her voice so that people around wouldn't think of her as a lunatic. And if you carried this on, I swear I won't eat a morsel.

Maan looked at her n relaxed further. She was indeed right why he was pulling this bodyguard act though the next moment while she glared at him he realized that his mate was special, way too special, n a f**ked up part of him admitted that. To him, she was more important than any queen. His posture if anything became more alert n Geet felt like smacking her head, better... smacking his head.

A waitress came to their table for orders. Looking extremely bored from her routine she placed the menus before them. What shall I bring for you? She asked ready to jot down on her notepad, only then she lifted her eyes up n her whole attitude changed.

Geet frowned as the waitress practically salivated over Maan. What is so special about him- Geet looked across. Okay, everything. In designer jeans n tight T-shirt under that black jacket he was role-model for every man n dream of every girl. To top this, the confident, I-give-a-damn attitude that surrounded him was like honey for bees, aka the opposite sex.

For now, water. We will tell what else we need. Maan told dismissing the waitress but she didn't take the hint.

Geet glared at her because she wasn't leaving. Grrr. Unfortunately the other girl's concentration wasn't on Geet otherwise she would have known that she wanted her blood. For how long you are going to stand on our heads? Maan asked n the waitress snapped out of her la-la land.

For the first time Geet loved n appreciated Maan's rudeness. She stared at the waitress's back as she left for the counter to get water. Surely, she was around 25. The skirt she was wearing was way too close-fitting. No, Geet didn't sanction of that. At the back of her thought process, Geet noticed that she wasn't like this. She never bothered about other's clothes or hated a person just because they were hitting or drooling on someone. Although to call the man sitting before her someone' was almost unfair. He was now more than a stranger... wasn't a friend though. Then why she let him kiss her in the plane. I was dazed. Geet told herself and he had broken the contact before she could register anything... or respond?

The explanation wasn't satisfactory, not by a long shot.

The waitress was eyeing Maan n Geet felt a stab in her chest without a knife-stunt being pulled over her. She fisted her hands n turned to see if Maan was staring back at the waitress. He wasn't. His orbs were centered on her.

Oops, busted! Maan saw her expressions before she could smoothen them up.

A killer smirk took place on his lips. You are jealous.

Geet picked up the menu. NO WAY.

You are.

In your dreams.

He didn't say anything else. Phew. Geet decided to give her attention to the menu but couldn't read a word. All letters were blurry. I can't read.

Maan raised his head. Why not? I thought you were educated.

Geet snorted. I don't have my specs. I suffer from long-sightedness.

Shouldn't be a problem. I will read the menu out, you tell what you want.

As Maan recited the menu, her stomach growled. The place mainly served snacks n fast food, things that would add so many calories to her body but before ordering she didn't think twice. In last 7 days she had burned enough calories.

The waitress came to their table. I want a cheese burger, nachos, French fries, a hot dog n one chocolate smoothie. You have pan cake, right? Bring that too. Maan gave his order n waitress went to get their food. She thought he would comment on her piggy appetite but he didn't. Rather he had a pleased n satisfied expression on his face. How weird.

He leaned towards her over the table. I think that waitress has a nice ass.

Geet's eyes widened n she gritted her teeth. I will kill you.

Maan relaxed back, his broad chest expanding making his T-shirt stretch to show more skin. Do I smell jealousy?

No you are not.

Liar. His black orbs nearly glowed with hidden purpose. One of these days I am going to make you admit how you feel.

If Maan thought that would deflate or scare her, he was so wrong. That day... is not gonna come. All of these days I would just prove you wrong.

His wolf roared excitedly at the challenge.

Their order arrived n without a moment's pause Geet ate all that was laid before her, stuffing it in her mouth rapidly. From her peripheral vision she saw Maan's face. The glimmer there was of pure satiation n Geet doubted that it was due to the food he ate. It looked as if- She stopped her thoughts there. No use of mugging over things that were only going to make her more confused.

After the lunch Maan purchased more foodstuff from the supply store n got their car tank a refill. Then they set off.

When will we reach your town? Geet asked yawning.

Tomorrow morning if nothing obstructs our path. We'll travel all night

Okay. Am going to pass out here if you don't want me to drive?

A male of my origin doesn't compromise with his female's comfort. You sleep. I can drive.

God, the male ego. kay, you enjoy your maleness.

She laid her head back over the seat n closed her eyes. Sleep took over before she knew it.

This had to be a dream, because nothing was clear just a hazy musk surrounding her. All sounds in background were gurgled, a cocktail of potent blares which were faint.

An image flickered before the eyes of her mind, two windows foggy, imperceptible n yet fervent like hold of real hands on her head. Her skin was getting warm... clammy. The image flickered again. Came back. This time a little clearer. There was fire burning, roaring, consuming like a savage animal making her skin burn and eyes water.

The heat was inside her too, prickly, restless energy moving, wanting free as alive as a being.

Image flickered n there was someone, before her. His face was a black void. Another flicker.

She was attacking him.

Geet gasped coming back to senses... or not. She moaned as a new sensation filled her, took over of the very roots of her rationality. His hands were on her. Unconsciously, involuntarily she arched for more.

Maan licked his lips before placing them back on her sweet skin.

God, she had been so delicate n gorgeous sleeping curled up in her seat, her hairs dancing with the wind. Fully replete, she had a serenity pasted on her features n that peace lulled Maan to her so strappingly. His protective instincts had flared instantly reaching a height that was untouched. This was all so new to him; he had never felt like this, not even for his family. What followed it was desire. How he longed to penetrate her? Her thoughts, her soul, the core that she hid under clothes and this time he wanted to do it not with a finger but with his tongue and then with the male organ that was hardening in his pants.

He wanted to grab her globes n bite her nipples, leave marks all over her soft body. Every part was his. Mine. The voice rumbled in his chest coming out from between the lips.

His eyes roamed over her neck n his mark on her neck wasn't sufficiently noticeable. He wanted it deeper, so deep that everyone at first sight knew that she was his female. He wanted to do it at the very moment. And that was why he had the car parked at roadside n was above her right now, propped over her frame with his arms braced on either side of her head. Up this close she was damn enticing, trying to get close to him, her face naked with want... the barrier of her control down.

Under his mouth, he felt the subtle movement of her throat as she gulped. Once. Twice.

Then, took deep breaths.

What are you doing? Her raspy, uneven voice made his member twitch. God, her breasts below his hard chest were like the softest cushions.

My mark on you is fading. Before we reach home I want to give you a new one so everyone knows whom you belong to, wide n clear.

I don't-

Maan pushed, dragging his body up her frame. His hips surged forward n he touched her through the wall of clothes.

Geet felt the long shaft on her centre. It... wanted in. Her heart thudded as she moved her lips without a sound. Limbs joined to her shoulders were dead weights n her own inability frightened her. Heat rose, getting her flushed n her new panties wet.

There were two brains in her head. One that thought, other that did.

He kissed her skin finding that ideal spot at the crook of her neck. She would bore his brand there until they united in complete sense.Wonderful. Bite. Before she could protest his teeth dug into her. What she felt couldn't be described as pain or pleasure. It was beyond those feeble words to express the cool rush that made her lids heavy in ecstasy. Passion flowed through... and desire. Strong, raw desire. Body trembling, she wounded her arms around his neck, the same arms that had refused to move moments ago. The hum was so strong, the hot liquid sweeping down from her core.

There was no time to be ashamed.

But she was... utterly. Still her body wanted him, needed him like the drug which saved your life n pushed you closer to death. Like the tides which moved you forward but away from the shore.

Her skin became oversensitive as Maan suckled n chewed at her n then licked, his tongue finishing what his lips started. Once done with the craftwork he moved back then stared hard at her neck. Satisfaction roared through him and he showed it to her with a pleased growl while wiping his mouth from the back of his hand. His eyes spoke that he treasured her taste. You blood is the sweetest juice my tongue has ever savored.

Geet was too consumed to pronounce a single syllable.

He continued in hoarse voice. You are becoming used to it. Last time you fainted when I laid my mark on you.

Settling back on his seat, he took long drags of air from his nose to even the temperature of his body. He couldn't wait to make her his. Maan turned the key n the car rolled over the road. On their both sides were green grass scattered to the limits of vision obstructed only by high mountains at far ends.

She was getting used to it. Used to it.

The words that were previously in her mind were now on his mouth. Kind of lost, she touched the place where he had bitten her. She would have winched if she could. The skin was sour, marred.

Warn me next time when you pull that stunt over me. She said all of a sudden to Maan's surprise.

When I want to kiss you, mark you or make love to you, it would be there in my eyes. His eyes bore into hers. Time is not far when my need will be yours.

Mine need yours.

The second would come.

Two hearts beating as one.

As well you'd know, this yearning so pure.

The tables turned, time waiting for none.

Set of scales at same, you and me a single name.

His words seemed like a prophecy or a warning. But just because he said doesn't make them true. She was her own person. The master of her will n writer of her destiny. Although he was leading the way, Geet was adamant enough to mark her destination.

Maan noticed that she was wide awake. It just didn't go into his brain why she didn't want to bore his mark on her neck. He was the best male-human or werewolf-she would ever get. Or was she appalled by his proximity? Everything was going good, well, as good as it could be n the bomb went off just as he let his desires lose. There was no other choice for him. For Weres, to brand their mate was a necessity as compelling as breathing. Only two problems were that she didn't understand any of this and he couldn't control.

Already he was walking on the edge holding meagerly on the thin rope of restraint and man, was it a test?

In the rear-view mirror, Maan stared at the sinking sun. He didn't like the silence. She was restless besides him. The strong emotion was palpable around his skin.

After an hour or so they reached a small town fighting the darkness that had settled all over. Little lights from houses twinkled not as much for the visibility as for indicating the presence of human civilization.

Past the lunch, they had taken two stops at different places, one of which was another town.

But Maan always preferred to spend the night here because this town had relatively better staying facilities. Also in this town Maan had arranged for a gypsy because the route hereupon was going to be bumpier.

After trading the sports car for a more hard-core gypsy at a private garage, he stopped the vehicle outside a grocery store.

I am going to get something. You stay in the gyp only n don't talk to anyone.

He was treating her like a kid and she hated that passionately. A nasty retort was on her tongue. She kept it to herself n watched Maan going inside the store. For some peculiar reason tears clouded her vision. Wasn't she stuck?

Is anything wrong?

Geet twisted her head n got shocked to see a man clad in khaki uniform. A police officer. Her ticket to freedom. The officer was middle aged man, the hairs at roots on his head white. He cleared his throat, eyes skeptical. I saw you are upset. Hope everything is okay?

No. I have been kidnapped. She wanted to say but didn't. Crazy as it may sound; no more did she want to hurt Maan. It felt wrong and her stomach twisted with just the idea of him being behind bars. Although he was stinking rich n probably would be out in matter of hours yet she didn't want him in the hands of administration for any span of period, especially because of her.

No, thank you officer. But am fine. Just... had a tiff with my...um, boyfriend.

Oh, fine, if that's the matter. Never saw you before in this town?

Yes, we are tourists.

The officer smiled. Don't stray outside at late nights. Have a nice trip. He walked across the road going further n disappearing round a corner. She gazed ahead at the deserted road, a single street lamp trying fruitlessly to light the whole street. She looked down at the ignition. Maan had left the keys.

Surely she didn't tell the officer but that didn't mean she had given up. It was her last chance. Once in his territory she would be encaged completely. She jumped onto the driver's seat, started the gypsy and drove at a dead run.

Without the head lights of the gypsy she would have positively died. On the road where she drove was like an adventure you see on national geographic. While on her one side were series of mountains rising high, her left was a ditch, its drop just as deep as the heights of the mountains. To save the on roaders, miserable paling stretched along the vacant side.

Broken at places, it told stories of voyagers that couldn't go back.

Outside the grocery store Maan was furious. He felt like howling to sky n breaking the ground. Her guts n stupidity both excited n enraged him. Although this time he hadn't expected disobedience at all n he had rested his faith in her by not bothering to take the keys with him. Obviously it turned out to be a mistake and later Maan would make her pay for it.

For now he needed to catch her. His wolf was going mad. This wasn't their island n there were humans around, those who came out at nights n certainly not with good intensions.

Maan was running back then stopped in his tracks, his mind gaining control with the passage of time, a little sanity sinking in over the untamed voices of his instincts. She wouldn't go back, neither did she knew the way to police station. She would have gone ahead, to her town which wasn't that far from here. Only she wouldn't reach. Turning around Maan ran leaving the houses behind n staying in the shadows. He didn't want to alert the humans n catch attention. Leaving the town behind, Maan let the change overtake him. No way was he letting her go. As his muscles contorted and the power flowed with his blood, Maan wished that he was going the right way.

A mile later he caught her scent. She had passed from here not long ago.

Geet had finally done it. She was free n going home. Why was her chest aching then? It was the same pain she had felt before n with that her neck stung so badly, right at the place where he had bitten her. Like the mark wanted her to stop n go back. Geet tried to focus breathlessly. There was something wrong with her body. She was shivering n not because of cold.

In the mirror she saw a shadow growing in size behind. First she thought it was another vehicle but why anyone would drive here without the headlights on. As the figure neared her, her heart kicked. No it wasn't a vehicle n also not some human. No person could run this fast and- shit, that thing was on four limbs.

Alarms ringed in her head n she pulled the gear increasing the speed. Her hands held on the steering for dear life. She was just about to look back when the thing or animal or whatever zoomed past her.

She took a deep breath in. That was a close call but she was worrying for nothing. Although, what an animal was doing at a place like this, in middle of suicidal road?

Geet froze. Apparently, she was going to find out.

Headlight caught the figure that stood on far end of her path. Its eyes glowed in the beam, pointed towards her same as its ears n nose. It was a wolf... and a big one at that, larger than a gray wolf. She had never seen something like this. Were wolves supposed to be so big? It was nearly as tall as she was... on four legs. For some reason it was angry, from her? As it panted the snouts expanded n contracted on the large head that was joined to rest of the body by a muscular neck, thicker than her thigh. The legs were muscular too yet long, ending on wide paws that held on the ground with a confidence of an apex predator.

Its body looked way too strong with long and bushy fur that was beautiful. It was black n in the moonlight that penetrated the fog the ends of hairs shinned silver, so slick n glossy. It was another thing the wolf's hackles were raised.

It growled, low n hard, the sound cutting over the noise of gypsy's engine. Geet looked at the wolf's mouth; teeth that appeared capable of crushing bones were tightly clenched. Her eyes rose to meet those of the animal.

She knew it. Him? It was the same wolf from her dreams. Geet shook her head registering that she was heading ahead. This wasn't the time to lose brain. The wolf took a step forward, one paw placed expertly in front of other. It sprinted towards her. She couldn't even track the motion, it was so fast. Geet pressed the brakes n the gypsy lost traction, slewing on the asphalt. The wolf met it head on making the Gypsy's rear crash against road railing, sparks flying.

Geet covered her head with her hands as she was jerked forward. Colliding with the gypsy's bumper. Pressing its paws on concrete, the wolf threw it back like a toy with a snarl.

With a nasty rumble the gypsy banged into the rock plane, engine whimpering. She raised her head n wolf bent down then jumped up landing on the hood right in front of her with a grace n strength that would have been amazing if she wouldn't be so horrified. Geet closed her hazels as the wolf again leaped to attack her. No pain came though.

Gulping n with her heart hammering against ribs she turned her head. Maan sat beside her.

No wolf. I brought you chocolates.

Last thing she saw before passing out was the smashed paling. She was another story and she wouldn't go back too.

Geet came back to consciousness the next morning. We are leaving in 15 minutes. Get ready. She glanced at the clock. Yeah its early, but the earlier we start the faster we reach home. We have already wasted the night because of your foolishness. After his delicate mate had passed out, Maan decided they should spend the night in a motel rather than travelling.

Everything that had happened played in her head, wolf being the main attraction. Thank god she wasn't injured and was just tired.

She looked at Maan, who was sitting on a chair staring at her, and laid back, blinking at the ceiling.

I am a werewolf.

You are my mate.

You don't know me but your soul does.

She blinked again remembering his words then got ready in 10 minutes, invested next 5 in a quick breakfast that he had ordered for her. I am ready.

No more running? His brow was raised.

I want to get over with this. Let's go to your place n see what you have there.

Fine with me. Just a small piece of info for you, there is no over in this. And what you did last night was gutsy. He walked closer n exhaled over her face. But darlin', payback's going to be a bitch. For now, though, we are cool.

Geet didn't care that he was still angry from her escape routine. I am not cool n never going to be around you.

Well, I'll take it as compliment considering... I make you hot.

Later that evening, after a couple of stops n several hundred kilometers, the gypsy tore into the slim track taking them deeper into some kind of forest. On the way here they had passed Geet's home town but Maan didn't stop there n they just passed through the borders of the area without giving her some possibility to run and that wasn't a surprise for Geet.

Her eyes opened n she looked around. The trees weren't green; they were black, as sun had set, shadows creeping all around them. Her hazel orbs settled on the man behind the wheel n she took in a breath. How much more time?

We are almost there?

So you live here?

You will find out real soon.

Geet was pissed with his vague answers. Why couldn't he drop that cool-dude act for once?

She titled her head to stare up at the sky. Instead of stars n moon there were tall trees, the thick branches crowding the space, hiding what was familiar to her.

The gypsy bounced on the bumpy track. Thank god he had that sports car exchanged for this real thing, though it had certainly gone in for repairs n still a strange sound came from it when the breaks were pressed. God, it felt they had been travelling for years.

The forest started to condense n across the trees, high up in the sky was a small red light.

Flickering due to passing trees running in front of her eyes as the vehicle fought with the lane.

What's that red light?

Maan shook his head. Haven't seen a telephone tower before?

When she gaped at him he pushed her jaw up, suddenly n unexpectedly, a slight smile tucking at the corner of his lips.

You have network here? She asked astonished. They were far higher up in the mountains as far as she knew. In fact they had crossed her town in the way here. Geet couldn't believe they have anything remotely modern at a place like this. For god's sake there was no asphalt road-

Her thoughts seized. Maan pulled the gear n the gypsy mounted up n settled with a grunt on a concrete road. Who would have thought that?

What remained of the forest were the trees bedecking the sidelines of the road, welcoming her. Geet looked up to see stars twinkling as brightly as they always had, telling her that the world was still the same.

A gush of chilly air hit her n she clutched the jacket-that Maan had given her as temperature had started to decrease further with the setting sun-tighter. This place was colder than her home. But she didn't have to worry; the onset of summers was near.

The tower is ensconced in recent times. I think it has been 9 years. To look over at the huge business empire from here without a means of contact with outer world was impossible n there was always someone from the family out n far on long trips. With this not only our family but whole clan has benefited.

We are in the clan's landing now.

You mean all this land... no humans are here? Geet still had difficulty swallowing the fact about him being a... but, damn.

No, on this landing you would find no human. Just my kind.

What if someone-human-comes here to live or something like that?

This place was selected carefully, with all measures and means to keep our race hidden n safe. Of course, people from the small town on other side of the forest know about this place but we make sure that we aren't conspicuous to them n they don't poke much into our affairs. For them we are just another bunch of people like them living on the other side.

You talk as if all this is your personal property.

He smiled that deliciously, wolfish smile of his. Oh boy!!

Everywhere your eyes go n beyond; the land belongs to the royal family. All this area is in our possession for the peaceful n protected subsistence of our race.

The remaining ride was smooth. An occasional house illuminated in the darkness every now n then. Everything seemed perfectly ordinary yet eerily bizarre.

Trees became far-flung n they neared an unrealistic structure.

A mansion.

In the darkness, she couldn't see it clearly but it was breathtaking, magnificent at the same time shady, dominating... threatening. Built in classic European panache, its height towered to four stories. She practically had to crane her neck to take it all inside her circle of vision.

As they walked ahead, from where the gypsy was parked before a circular fountain, the water frozen in it making her feel numb without even getting in touch with. Her legs walked, eyes saw but mind was incapable of functioning or rather say digesting. And she had thought he lived in a cave.

This doesn't seem like a Den to me.

But it our clan's Den. We call it Den that it. Will tell you the why of it later.

Geet halted before the flight of stairs that lead to the entrance. The wooden door was massive, darkest brown, with convoluted carving covering it as though shielding everyone who lived inside. She looked back over her shoulder n the gypsy was gone.

Maan held her hand probably aware of her disorientation n pulled her with him. He knocked on the door. Geet touched the pattern on the wood. It wasn't just meaningless design. These were words, some language she couldn't comprehend. Marvelous.

Something crawled over her back n she thought it was Maan's hand except the pin pricks of movement she felt couldn't be his finger. The sensation moved up n she turned her head back. When she caught what was moving on her jacket just behind her shoulder, Geet screamed.

Maan, alarmed only for a second, brushed the insect off her shoulder.

Geet jumped breathing hard, her eyes searching the floor where the insect must have landed and was in all probability coming for her again. A loud sound entered her ear n she looked up only to find that idiotic man laughing his ass off holding his stomach.

That thing was enormous. Geet reasoned puffing her cheek.

Heavens must be in his favor because-werewolf or not-she was seriously thinking about murdering him but shit, the door opened at right time.

Welcome Sire.

Quit the sire monotony, Robe. Maan said pulling Geet inside extremely relieved to be back at home, while Geet was too busy to notice him, all her attentiveness got focused on the enormous atrium.

She couldn't believe where she stood. Royalty oozed out of the whole place. High ceiling, all polished wood, blood red carpets woven with fine prints n oil paintings on walls. And apart from all the material beauty, it was bizarrely homely from the compact sofa arrangement before the giant Telly to the sitting space beside one of the doors. The place seemed to house n witness growth of generations.

The word was indeed true. A human. Man who opened the door spoke n Geet positioned her wide eyes on him, he seemed normal though huge. I am sorry, didn't mean to offend you. He all but bit his tongue.I am Robe, head attendant.

This guy was born in old England so pardon him for the formal shit. At Maan's words the other man smiled like he knew him way too much. Maa and Dad are home?

No. They had to go for the union, would come by tomorrow morning.

Hmm. We are going to my quarters.

Are you both not hungry.

We ate an hour ago. Maan looked at Geet. She shook her head still dazed. At her agreement he held her hand. I want to put her to bed. She is tired.

Sometimes Geet just couldn't comprehend Maan. He took care of her meals n rest like she was most significant person in his life n a little leniency with her necessities was unacceptable n at other times he proved that there was nothing of that sort. He was rarely polite n thought her body was his possession. Without even informing, he touched her wherever he wanted, whenever he wanted n in whatever way he wanted.

And she was going to live with him. God save her.

If it won't bother you I would like to present my lady with something.

Are you talking about me?

No I am one with breasts here. Maan mumbled n Geet glared at him.

Where are your manners Mr. Royalty? Idiot.

How-

You call me Geet. Cutting Maan off, Geet told the attendant who looked at them like he had seen ghost.

He nodded. I won't take much time. In a matter of few minutes the attendant came back with a strange thing in his big hands. Since this the first time you have put foot in the Den, our house, and I am the person to receive you. This shall be my gift.

It felt so funny but Geet didn't laugh. Maan was standing beside her with a bored expression n she wanted to beat him when he let out a yawn. She took the thing from Robe. It was a hoop over it was woven a loose web from silk thread, from the hoop hung white features n wooden beads while little stones were used to decorate it. Thank you, but what is this?

It's a dream catcher. It shall catch all your bad dreams while you sleep n put good one inside your head. So you wake up with a healthy mind n the sun is always bright for you every morning. Hang it over headboard. He told then added hurriedly. Of course if you find it worthy of your space.

I would, for sure. The first thing in morning. Thanks again and you are very cute. Geet told without thinking.

Robe's face turned pink. Umm... Thanks. I shall take your leave. Have a good night.

They went upstairs n passed dark corridors. Maan held her hand n she was thankful. If left alone, she would surely lose her way.

All this is your house, as in, seriously? Geet asked amazed.

Yes.

After another flight of stairs they reached a set of double doors. He pushed the doors open n pulled her inside to a dark living room n then went beyond another. As Maan switched on the lights Geet gasped. Holly molly, it was big bedroom. Like really, really big. Huge-king size-bed in mid, a window on right that took almost half of the wall, in the corner across it was a study table. On right was an awesome dressing table that she loved in first sight n beside it doors were lined side by side. On the wall opposite to the bed hung an exotic painting of beautiful white n black horses. Although magnificent the room looked kind of empty.

How did you like it? Maan didn't show it but he was nervous. He didn't have opportunity to get it arranged as per a female's liking because he had been more anxious about coming home. However, his wolf desperately wanted her approval of their private space, of the bedroom that they would share from now on. The bed they would make love on every night.

It's lovely. Geet told honestly though she didn't know why he was asking.

And do you approve of the bed we would link our bodies on each night n also day.

Geet stilled at his raw words. What do you mean? Its... your room? Or-

It's our room. We are mates. We live together, in same room n inside same walls n now I don't have to stop myself. In a jerk he pulled her flush against his body. Geet tried to fight but he held her firmly, pressed his lips to her temple. It's not going to happen tonight. You are tired. I will take you when you have the energy to handle me.

He pushed her on the bed n covered her with the duvet. Now sleep.

Where are you going? The words came out on their own accord because he started to leave.

She didn't want to be with him but at this place she didn't want to be alone either. Him, she could fight but what the walls of the mansion hid she didn't know.

Have some business to take care of. Don't worry, not a grain could harm you here and that's my promise.

Geet closed her eyes as the door shut and tried to sleep. She couldn't though despite being pretty exhausted. How could she sleep in this unknown place between unknown people? How could she sleep after what he just said? She touched the feathers of dream catcher.

What a nice thing to gift. The head attendant had been particularly polite n humble, not something she had expected when she was coming here.

Curiosity lightened, Geet didn't want to sit like a fool. Someone would obviously find her if she got lost, right?

__________________________________

(Posted by Dumas)

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Author's Note:

I updated, yeah-yeah after ages but at least it was big. In fact way big, more nearly 8000 words.

I know it was shocking but if something confuses u guys tell. Am nervous for it so please tell me if it was fine. Sorry for not introducing Maan's family but I thought before meeting them Geet needed to know Maan other side in a way n so the journey was detailed.

It took so much effort to come up with this part but if I still disappointed you in some way m sorry. Its tough for me n I would be thankful if u told wat you disliked.

Also if u loved it, what are comments for Embarrassed

. I am desperate for them like Maan is for Geet.