KHUMAARI- The Nocturnal Beast, PART 15

KHUMAARI

The Nocturnal Beast

Part 15

Heart And Mind

Geet didn’t understand. Amongst the rare occasions she had seen him angry this was certainly the worst. His damn-the-world attitude left little scope for anger. Although right now her so-called mate was positively furious.

What had she exactly done?

Not having enough guts and energy to voice out the question Geet stayed quiet while he drove studiously. It was like there wasn’t a person sitting beside him. When she had woken up he had been soft like a mother and now he was behaving as though she was criminal under arrest. His mood swings were grating and his anger certainly a curse. So, he was going to punish her. For what? She wished he would go back to his usual self. Her whole body was-despite the painkillers-humming with pain, she didn’t want her heart to pain too.

It didn’t feel right, his aloofness made the world seem darker.

Maan shifted when her cold fingers grazed his skin.

You are hurt. She stated solemnly feeling tenderly the scratch under his jaw.

Maan turned his head to look at her. His eyes shinned brightly; their sheen took her breath away. An ache flashed in her overpowering all others. Before she could read anything he stole his gaze n stared ahead. Jolted by his intensity Geet yanked her hand back n slid down the seat feeling very low.

They reached the Den n Maan again took her possession in his arms. She didn’t protest partly because she actually couldn’t walk on her own n partly because she didn’t want Maan to get angrier. There was also this loud need to be close to this man who had saved her. 

Therefore screwing all her stubbornness she cuddled into him n hid her face in his broad chest listening to his distinctive, rapid heartbeats. After the scary encounter with the wolves in forest, his embrace was eerily comforting.

Are you okay? Jhanvi asked as soon as they entered the foyer.

Whole family was there n looked tired… worried. Parth was holding Niyati while 
Robe appeared shaken.

Yes. I am fine, Mrs. Khurana. Geet answered.

Rudra stood up from his position on the sofa.

I couldn’t have guessed that such a fragile looking girl house so much bravery.

Regardless of not being sure if it was a compliment, Geet blushed. She felt like standing up to her praise but obviously falling flat on face would dampen her “brave” image.

Now I know why you are Maan’s mate. Rudra glanced up at Maan. In my absence you handled everything very well, son. With everything that has been going on lately, this incident could have been disastrous. I am proud of you.

Maan frowned. Everyone did what they had to. I don’t think I did anything extraordinary.

But-

Maan cut him off. Dad, Geet needs to rest. I will catch up later on.

Like this Maan dismissed the conversation; Geet knew there would be no ‘later on’ for this one.

Ahem… Geet cleared her throat soundly as Maan came out of the bathroom. He seemed unaffected. In just a towel he was as comfortable as ever. Barefooted he padded across and his hands very carefully shifted and laid her completely on the bed between the fluffy pillows and sheet.

You need to go out. He sternly pointed towards Cotton who was until now snuggled on bed at Geet’s feet. Cotton made a whimpering sound n Geet gave him a sorry face. Very sadly, the poor thing trotted out.

It felt weird with him standing over her while she lay on bed. As he stared down unblinkingly his black orbs practically ate at her. Geet began to sit up but he pushed her back down. With a furrow of brows she tried to rise again. He didn’t let her. Giving up she didn’t fight him. Although, why he had to fake concern when he actually didn’t give a shit was beyond her. For god’s sake, she was hurt, attacked by wolves n this was how he’d behave.

He contended he cared for her the most.

You are the biggest liar. She accused.

He didn’t reply. For a man he had good endurance, she had to give him that. For all she knew, ignoring n staying mum used to be a woman’s weapons. As he closed the lights, Geet felt her temper rising. She also felt the sting of tears in her eyes. The bed dipped n sheets shifted. He didn’t touch her unlike last night n that shouldn’t have bothered her. She should be relieved. But she felt bad, really bad.

I am talking to you. She shouted only to hear the echo of her voice. His breath evened out n she lay helplessly, her eyes wide open. Tears streamed down n again she felt home sick. Please god, I want to go home.

This time she had merely whispered the words to herself yet they did what the previous ones couldn’t. Lights opened n she found Maan crowding her. He propped himself over her, cautious not to spare a touch. It was because of the injuries or because he was pissed wasn’t something she wanted to know. Her unasked question was answered as his mouth neared her face n languidly licked at her tears. She inhaled and released her breath very slowly not wishing even her gasp to disturb what he was doing.

His body radiated heat, her cells lapped at it. In the dark, she found light in his eyes and could stare into them whole night.

Her heart pounded erratically with the new knowledge. This was what she wanted. Not his words, not his care. She wanted his nearness. Her every pore craved to take him in. She wanted him to kiss her n much more. He made her so hot. So wanton. Exactly how low was she ready to stoop? She wasn’t like this. He dragged his mouth over hers, brushing their lips together just a notch. Her petals parted and she arched towards him slightly but he didn’t kiss her, just his hand shimmered over her neck, breast, waist, at the juncture between her legs where he stroked one long finger, his touch a whisper of air making her core weep. He sucked in a long breath, his nostrils flaring. She very well knew he was taking in the scent of her arousal. Why wasn’t he kissing her?

You still have the audacity to say that? After what you did to me.

What did I do?

Fucking nothing. Maan growled n went back to his side of bed.

Lights went off again. The worst thing about Maan was he didn’t voice what was going on with him, inside him.

Next couple of days passed in an absolute blur with her being jailed in room. She could barely move and had slept most of the times drugged by meds.

Maan didn’t talk to her except for business. He was gifted in the art of ignoring. Not even his eyes touched her apart from those two times when her bandages were changed. For the same, Paras and his mate, Trisha, who also happened to be her husband’s helping hand, came to the Den. Every single time when Trisha dressed her wounds Maan stayed in the room. Even Paras wasn’t allowed but Trisha never asked Maan to leave. It was weird having Maan there when Trisha removed her top. Geet had sat with her back to him but she knew he was staring. His eyes were boring into her and not exactly in corporal manner but- she couldn’t explain it and with the sting of old bandages being literally wrenched from her raw injuries, she could care less.

It was so painful specifically the first time n still she had tried to keep her whims to herself. Geet had seen Maan eyes narrowing every time she flinched. Silly as it may seem she felt as though they shared the pain.

Warmness was in his eyes when he gave her meds or tucked sheets around her thinking she was asleep and hadn’t caught the gesture. Actually, she didn’t know what to believe in... the Maan who’d saved her life jeopardizing his or the one who ruthlessly made her feel invisible.

Most of all, she couldn’t understand the sensations wreaking havoc in her body. Since the beginning, she had felt tad-bit attracted to him but after that night when she had bitten him things had heated up like an active volcano, just for her. Only his presence around made her heart race and Goosebumps rise on her skin. And god forbid when he came out after showers she could just stare at his toned form, the smell of soap mixed with his masculinity. 

She imagined herself flush against him running her mouth over his neck, chest sucking at the beads of water.

More than once the pictures of their naked bodies tangled together had penetrated her senses and she had felt the wetness drenching her inner garment. Yet no matter how hard she tried there was something that pushed her towards him, an unseen connection that tugged severely both at her body and mind to him.

The same connection pained her more than wounds. Every time Maan turned his face away or shut her out, her chest squeezed so tight it was difficult to not scream and wail with agony.

Slowly stroking her cheek Geet wondered. Where did it go? There was nasty gash on her cheek inflicted from the jagged claws of one wolf. Now it was completely gone. Not even a faint mark was there. No trace of an animalistic attack was on her face. And not a week had passed.

She could stand on her feet n well, couldn’t possibly climb a mountain but walk quite smoothly. Cotton had kept her company and Maan’s family was very nice. All had taken turns at entertaining her while she was stuck between four walls. Unfortunately, she wasn’t that nice. Against all their orders, she decided to leave the room n go downstairs. There was a lot to explore n few injuries couldn’t stop Geet Punj. Past a number of gasps n moans, she had successfully slipped herself into a pair of jeans n a loose top.

Geet darling, you shouldn’t be here. Jhanvi said upon seeing Geet in the kitchen.

It’s okay, Mrs. Khurana. I am good and was getting bored in the room. Would you mind if I sat here?

Of course not. I’ll happy to have your company.

Maan’s mother was the busiest person in Den. She was always rummaging around or 
feeding someone or simply making sure that her sons were behaving themselves. Thanks to that, they had got very little time together. After Maan’s father, his mother was the next person Geet had spent the least time with.

I have made banana pie. She sliced a piece n kept it in plate. Have a go.

You are my most favorite person in world, do you know? Geet nearly screamed salivating. I just love cakes and pies.

Now you are lying, Geet. I thought someone else was your most favorite. Nayati teased taking a seat beside Geet.

Who? Geet asked moaning as the syrupiness of pie melted in her mouth.

Your beloved mate. Nayati answered.

That idiot? Geet bit her tongue. I am sorry Mrs. Khurana. I didn’t mean to defame 
your son before you but he is a moron. He brings out the worst in me.

Niyati n Jhanvi grinned at each other.

Its okay, Geet. Maan is your mate. You have complete right on him, more than 
me.

Yes. Nayati nodded. I can understand. Were males could be really infuriating. 
They understand less n do more and most of the times are just a stick up the ass. Dick heads. Sometimes I wish I could crush Parth’s head with my hands when he orders me around n bars me from doinf anything. Or better I could chop his balls then maybe he wouldn’t be so haughty about his male status. Geet was horrified with the images Niyati planted in her mind while Jhanvi was smiling sweetly shaking her head. Luckily, I love him. Hence he is safe, for the time being.

Niyati, you have him wrapped around your pinkie finger. Jhanvi said. He loves you madly. Don’t forget how much pampering you get.

Niyati blushed in agreement unconsciously rubbing her slightly swollen tummy. She was picturesque like that with the unique glow that pregnant females possessed.

Is it tough to be mated to a Werewolf?

Yes. Both the ladies said in Chorus.

Werewolf males are uncontrollable. Jhanvi started. They are more instinct than intellect. That’s where we come into the picture. We keep them grounded. We could be referred to as their anchors. When the weather is dodgy and they lose direction, we keep our mates still and save them from the potential perils. They are powerful, leading. We are calmer, suggesting the right way.

Hence females of our race are immensely respected. They are homemakers, workers n the brain cells of their mates. We are less likely to give into our animal side. But then, Geet, we are same as our mates. You are different from Maan. I can’t tell how this would work out. Although, I know Maan is strong and so are you as far as I have seen. Together you both will figure out how to deal with your perils.

That is if they talked civilly. Geet commented inwardly then said out loud.Do you know he kidnapped me from my apartment?

Jhanvi didn’t seem surprised. Niyati, how about you go and take rest while I make your favorite Chinese Chopsuey?

Niyati wisely took the cue and couldn’t be more elated with the offered incentive. Jhanvi knew how to make everyone happy. Niyati gave Geet an assuring pat on the shoulder before leaving.

I am taking that you know about Maan telling me that he met you first two years ago. Geet nodded. I know my son. He would never voice out or accept but it was really tough for him. You didn’t know about him but he lived two whole years knowing that his mate was breathing somewhere without him. 

Werewolves-particularly male-are fiercely protective of their mates. It’s hard to figure out how Maan dealt with not knowing how you were. If you were safe or not? He didn’t even know where you were or how he would find you again. However, one thing is certain he must have killed a part of himself while leaving you there that first time. I am surprised he didn’t kidnap you then only. Once a werewolf-male or female-find their mate it’s almost impossible to live without them. In ancient times major rule breakers were sentenced to stay apart from their mates so they would die. The innocent mate died too which mattered little as mates were considered one by the protocol. One’s mistake was another’s. Later on the practice was admonished.

Jhanvi released a breath, her tensed, wide shoulders relaxing a bit. If something had happened to him- It’s good that he found you again; awful that it took him two years in doing so.

To hear that Maan had suffered in some way just because she wasn’t there with him sounded eccentric, unbelievable. Geet recalled the night when Maan had broken into her apartment. He was unstoppable then. Thinking about that now, why did he stop two years ago? Maybe he didn’t want her then. She could just imagine the disappointment permeating him upon knowing her to be his mate. A plain, helpless human. She swallowed as something akin to a stake felt to be stabbed into her chest. It was the injuries, she told herself but knew better.

And, Maan is different. Jhanvi’s troubled voice pulled her back from thoughts. He has always been.

Different from you all also?

Yes. You might take some time to understand this but we all have two elements to our beings. One is our human side and the other is animal one. Our human side is more cerebral and so it’s more potent most of the times. It dominates the animal side n keeps it harnessed. That’s how all werewolves are designed. Females face little problem in controlling their inner wolf, but males learn too. It’s crucial in a world where we have to stay hidden. We can’t lose control. Of course sometimes situation gets out of hand n we tend to give into our animal. Even then our human side keeps a grip on us. Not with Maan, his wolf is very potent and it takes over his rational thinking. He loses it very easily n gives into his wolf completely. It has transpired more than once. Maan never learned to control and you know what happens when a wild animal is unleashed, right?

The hairs at the back of Geet’s neck rose up. She shivered going cold.

You should be the last one to worry. Jhanvi smiled but her attempt didn’t ease her. He would never hurt you. If anyone could keep him sane it’s you.

Geet doubted that, if anything she made him madder. You mean to say that you all have two beings living inside you? She actually couldn’t comprehend. And, everyone thought human minds were most complex. Doesn’t it get… crowdie?

No. Doesn’t every coin have two faces; both aren’t same yet are not exactly different either. Understand it like the voices of your mind and heart. They are not always in agreement n sometimes they do, doesn’t mean you possess two souls or something.

The voices of heart n mind. Geet whispered.

Mrs. Khurana kept a mug of hot chocolate before Geet. His life has been… rocky. That is why I worry so much. The worst thing is he never opens up, has kept himself guarded. One could never judge the momentum of his pain or the extent of his glee. He always reflects that perfect cool dude persona. Her hands rapidly worked at the onions over the wooden slab, chopping them into fine pieces.You’ll have to peel off the layers to witness a totally different facet of him.

Geet exactly wasn’t sure what Maan’s mother was indicating at. Perhaps, she wanted Geet to figure out the rest on her own which was going to be almost impossible. Maan was no soft onion, he was hard nut. There wasn’t any layer but a shell.

Can I ask you one more thing? Mrs. Khurana, by any chance is it possible that Maan can feel what I do?

Big black eyes slid to Geet’s neck and she felt the need to hide the mark that sat there in full glory. Geet, you are his predestined mate. And you have marked each other. Am I right? Geet nodded shyly. Then, surely Maan could sense what you feel, if not completely than the strong emotions, at least. He hasn’t taken you yet so the bond is imperfect. Once it’s done you both could even be in each other’s mind, share thoughts n communicate over long distances just through your brains. Your soul would be connected in an eternal tie.

Geet squirmed in her seat. Maan… taking her? How could his mother talk so casually about it? And they would able to be in each other’s mind, seriously? What was this, a nightmare turned reality? For humans getting married was an ultimate commitment. Knowing the werewolf’s ways, that seemed… nothing.

Is it essential? In spite of being immensely uncomfortable with the subject, Geet dared to ask.

What? Consummating? Yes, dear. Being a human you may not feel the need. But for a werewolf, claiming your mate is the necessity so big that it rules out everything else. His wolf won’t sit back and full moon is approaching.

Geet didn’t understand any of this. Wolf, necessity, and what the hell did moon had to do with all this?

Don’t I get a say? Geet asked.

You aren’t already marked permanently, doesn’t that pronounce about you having a ‘say’. I told you Maan couldn’t control his wolf. But, he hasn’t forced himself upon you. That says something, doesn’t it?

Pie!! Robe strolled into the kitchen cutting their conversation. His big face was endearing as he salivated at the sight of pie just like Geet.

You get only one piece. Jhanvi warned and Robe made a puppy face.

Geet had to smile. You like pie?

Like? He has an obsession for everything that smells n tastes sweet.

Robe scratched the back of his head with a smug grin on his face.

Wow. Then the obsession is mutual. Geet winked.

Mylady, youalsolikepie? He asked in jumbled words stuffing entire piece of pie in his giant mouth.

Geet nodded with a giggle.

Avinaya Khurana, where are you going? Jhanvi’s voice boomed.

At that exact moment Geet understood why the kitchen was where it was. You had to pass the hallway to enter the main foyer which was visible through the kitchen. So, Jhanvi could keep an eye on everyone that came and left the Den.

I am going to town with friends.

Then you could bring few provisions from there.

Avinaya’s face was worth watching. Oh no, Maa. I don’t have time. Surely, Robe could do it?

Yes, Sire. Robe told with a gracious beam.

No. You can’t pass on your responsibilities to others. A man should know what all is required in a woman’s kitchen. One day you would have a family of your own and-

Fine. Avinaya raised his palms proposing peace. I’ll get it. But your dream isn’t coming true for another hundred years.

That we’ll see. If Maan can find a mate finally, you n Garv could too. Jhanvi merrily told handling her son the list.

Gosh! This is enough to feed a fucking town of big foots.

Take Geet with you. She would help you and also see the town.

You’ll come? Avinaya asked suspiciously showing Geet the list which had more than 3 dozen items. When Geet nodded rolling her eyes, he heaved a sigh of relief.

Come out. I’ll bring the car.

Un-fucking-believable.

Avinaya still couldn’t digest that this small little girlie was Maan’s mate. The stars had fucked up royally with his brother’s fate. Maan was ruthless, furtive and his hate for humans was colossal. To even imagine that this female, curled up in the passenger seat, was Maan’s partner for the rest of life was plain absurd. However, Avinaya had seen how fiery Geet was behind that innocent face. Courageous also, enough to confront a pack of wolves to protect a youngling that wasn’t even her race. Avinaya had never seen her scared of his brother. Upon seeing Maan, females drooled and peed in their pants simultaneously. So, either Geet was extraordinarily brave or suicidal.

When he had helped her into the car, she had blushed so thoroughly that Avinaya had lost it. He had merely held her hand and waist which had resulted in her turning beetroot red. God bless the male population, was she beautiful like that? Avinaya wasn’t certain if he pitied his bro or found him lucky. His mate was a total surprise package. Unlike werewolf female she was small, petite. Females of their line were tall, athletically built with broad shoulder n lean form. Geet was curvier, not fat but generously rounded. She seemed unaware of her physical draw. Then, he actually didn’t know her well enough. It could be a trick. Allure through faked naivety.

He had bedded both werewolf and human females and while Were females were candid and quite expressive about their demands, humans were more twisted in their ways which didn’t matter until he got what he sought after.

This is our stop. He announced n Geet jerked out of whatever thoughts her mind was occupied in.

Wow. This is the nearest town?

Yeah, on the other side of the forest. All clan supplies come from here.

As they reached the supermarket, Avinaya made a face. You buy the items and I carry the bags? Will it work?

Geet smiled giving him a thumbs up. Human or were, all males were same. He gave her the list.

Crap, I forgot my spec- Geet stared at the slip running her eyes over the words repeatedly. Each alphabet was clear. I can read. She rubbed at her eyes.

Is it a bad thing? Avinaya frowned.

I couldn’t read without my glasses.

Yuhoo! Avinaya hooted not so excitedly and pushed her forward. Its god helping us. 

Lets finish the mission off.

He trailed Geet around n they chatted along while purchasing all items that were listed. In next 45 minutes or so they were done.

Finally. Avinaya groaned. He loaded all purchases in car. Should I be alone, it would have taken me a century to buy all this.

You could always treat me with pastries in return. Geet suggested beaming like a light house.

Didn’t you just have pie back home? Avinaya was amused.

Her face turned sad. Oh yeah.

I was kidding. You did me a big favor; I can at least do this much for ya.

No. I can’t have any more of that sweet stuff. You see, am already fat n have 
been lying on bed like a dead since ages. Oh my god, don’t know how much blubber I would have gained. Now I seriously need to cut down on my calorie intake and that’s not going to happen until I keep munching that devil's food.

His eyes raked over her body. You call this fat?

Sweet lord, was this Geet only or did every girl have magic in their rosy blush and the smell she emitted. It was mild, dulcet smell of shyness that had him moving closer in covet for more. He must have alarmed her because she retreated n lost footing. Avinaya balanced her at right time. A growl resounded close by.

Her eyes locked with incensed black orbs. Apart from that there was no sign of annoyance on his face. With hands in pockets, he seemed cool enough to give the glaciers of Antarctica a run for their money. Avinaya moved back.

Didn’t intend to startle you, I just caught a whiff I had never sensed before. Avinaye looked at Maan for some kind of elucidation.

Maan removed his gaze from her. Why she is here when she should have been in her room?

Hey, don’t talk as if am not here. Geet objected.

His eyes travelled back to their earlier position and she regretted speaking. Her body became hot only with the fire of his orbs. It touched her sinfully, sending tremors throughout. 

Your turn will come too.

DAMN. She was waiting for that only.

Mum sent us to get some grocery. It’s done so we were going to have pastries. Geet pinched his arm hard n Avinaya jumped rubbing the tortured skin. What?

Nothing. She turned her head away cursing both the brothers in her head. What was the need to tell Maan that they were going to have pastries? He already didn’t seem too please with her coming here n now would think she came for fun. When she had started to care what he thought of her? It could be sometime when she had started wanting him to shower all his attention on her, talk to her, feel her up. Her pea-size brain was going seriously crazy.

You take Dad home in your car. Geet and I will come back in mine.

And may I know where you both are going, dear brother?

Maan had the audacity to appear smug. He smirked. Gods, what was he suggesting? Dumbass.

None of your business.

Avinaya smirked back.

Nothing of the sort you are thinking is going to happen. Geet cleared.

Something was going to happen? Both the brothers drawled together n Geet felt herself flush like a tomato.

I need a minute.

Of course you do. Maan replied with a teasing smile that made her go weak in the knees. Damn him n his shattering smiles.

Just so you are pre informed, little brother. Keep your hands off my female or you won’t like the consequences. Avi was smiling but Maan wasn’t joking, his expressions were a threat alone. He turned to Geet. My car is there. Come fast, I don’t like to wait.

__________________________________

Author's blabber:

It practically took me several ages to update and I know you guys are mad at me. But believe I would have updated way sooner if not for my damn lappy which had gone insane.

Coming to this part. I really hope I made sense and u all didn’t get bored. Frankly speaking I had planned it much longer but it became too big so I’d to cut it in middle. As result m almost done with the next update which is a lot steamier as Geet n Maan are going-kind of-on their first date and you all know how our beast is. Hehe.

In this part a lot of things came out and next would be revealing even more of Maan.

 I want to thank everyone who leaves me damn amazing comments that are just as unique as this story. A welcome to the new readers and silent readers if you like it don’t sit back, leave a few words. It’ll be nice to hear from you.

Like always m nervous so do tell me if this part was good or sucked totally. Next part is nearly ready n I would probably update in a week or so but for that you would have to complete this thread.

Please press LIKE n COMMENT if u liked the update