Mine Yes! : Forced to be yours Mr.Devil

_____________@UTHOR'S POV :-

The morning sun filtered through the grand windows of the Singhaniya mansion, casting soft light across the elegant dining room. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm parathas, but Anaya felt an unease brewing in her stomach as she made her way downstairs. Today would be different. Today, Rubi was in the house.

As Anaya descended the staircase, she paused at the last step, her heart racing. The sight that greeted her made her breath catch. Rubi was sitting at the dining table, her wide smile plastered on her face, exuding a confidence that felt more like a threat than a welcome. The other Singhaniya ladies were gathered around, including Ria, Rakhi, and Misha, each wearing a facade of cordiality that belied the tension in the air. 

"Good morning, Anaya!" Rubi chirped, her tone sugary sweet but her eyes sharp, glimmering with an ulterior motive. "How lovely to see you this morning. You must be so happy to have the house to yourself while Rudra is away."

Ria rolled her eyes, leaning closer to Anaya. "Why does she always come here when the men aren't around?" she muttered, a hint of disdain in her voice. "It's like she's waiting for something to happen."

Anaya offered a weak smile in return, trying to shake off the sense of dread that Rubi's presence always brought. She took her seat at the table, glancing around. The Kukreja family had a reputation for stirring trouble, and Rubi was their prime representative today. 

As they settled into breakfast, the atmosphere became increasingly charged. Jaya Kukreja, Rubi's mother, was holding court, her sharp words aimed directly at Anaya. "It's a shame that some families cannot maintain their status," she sneered, casting a dismissive glance at Anaya. "Some are simply born into wealth and privilege, while others are… well, let's just say they have to work much harder for it."

Anaya felt the weight of the comment, her cheeks flushing. She focused on her plate, determined not to let their taunts affect her. Ria's fists clenched at her sides, ready to retaliate, but Rakhi laid a calming hand on her daughter's arm, trying to keep the peace.

"Jaya, there's no need for that," Rakhi said, her voice steady but firm. "Anaya has been working very hard to fit in and has made great efforts to be a part of this family."

"Efforts that are wasted," Jaya replied coldly. "Some things just can't change. It doesn't matter how many times you smile or pretend to be gracious."

At this, Misha, who had been quietly observing, could no longer contain her frustration. "Mother, can you please stop? You're just making yourself look bad," she shot back, earning a surprised look from Jaya.

Rubi, however, was not ready to back down. "Oh, come on, Misha. It's just a bit of fun. Isn't it entertaining?" Her smile never faltered, but the malice behind it was unmistakable. Anaya could feel the tension thickening, the room becoming a battlefield where words were weapons.

Ria leaned toward Anaya, whispering fiercely, "Ignore them. They're just jealous because they know Rudra is married to you."

Anaya's heart warmed at Ria's support, but the undercurrent of fear still gnawed at her. She stole a glance at the doorway, hoping Rudra would arrive soon. His presence always calmed her, like a shield against the world's cruelties.

"Rubi, I thought you weren't coming today?" Jaya asked, her voice dripping with feigned innocence. "How nice that you brought your mother along for support."

"Mother loves visiting family," Rubi replied, her smile growing even wider as she turned back to Anaya. "And it's nice to catch up with all of you lovely ladies, isn't it?" 

Anaya could see the trap being laid, a plan to create further discord. She clenched her fists beneath the table, willing herself to remain composed. Just then, the door swung open, and in walked Rudra, flanked by his brother Ravi. 

Rudra looked dashing in a tailored navy suit, his hair perfectly styled, exuding an aura of authority that made the room go silent. Anaya's heart raced as she met his gaze; his presence was like a balm to her wounded spirit. 

"Good morning," he said, his voice deep and commanding. His eyes quickly searched the room, landing on Anaya, and the corners of his mouth lifted slightly, a private acknowledgment that made her feel warm inside.

"What's going on here?" Rudra asked, his brow furrowing as he took in the tension at the table. 

Rubi quickly donned her sweet persona, leaning toward him with a bright smile. "Oh, just a little family banter, Rudra! We were talking about how Anaya is adjusting to life here. Isn't it sweet?" 

The irony in her words dripped like poison, but before Rudra could respond, Jaya jumped in. "You wouldn't believe the way Anaya struggles with etiquette. It's almost embarrassing," she said with a disdainful laugh. 

Rudra's expression darkened. "That's enough, Aunt Jaya".

"Look at her! She is Anaya Malhotra—did I say Malhotra? No, she is Anaya Rudra Singhaniya—my wife! The power she possesses far surpasses any wealth or status you might cling to. Before you dare to insult her, remember this: she is not just a Malhotra; she is a Singhaniya now.

I am here to tell you that I will not tolerate anyone belittling my wife. Mark my words: no one, not even I, has the right to demean her. So how can you think you can insult her in front of her family and, even more importantly, in front of me?

As her husband, it is my duty to protect her, and I will do it fiercely. Anaya represents strength, grace, and dignity—qualities you cannot even begin to comprehend. If you think you can disrespect her and walk away without consequences, you are gravely mistaken.

This is not just about personal feelings; it is about the respect and honor of our marriage. Consider this your final warning: any further attempts to undermine her or inflict harm upon her will unleash my wrath. I will defend her against anyone who dares to threaten her well-being, and I will ensure that you regret every word you've said.

You have crossed a line, and I will not stand by while anyone disrespects my wife. This is your only warning. If you value your standing, think long and hard before you act again."

The room fell silent, everyone staring at him in shock. Rudra moved closer to Anaya, taking her hand in his, his grip firm and protective. "She's not what you think. She's far better than any of us could ever be," he continued, his eyes flashing with anger. 

"Rudra, I—" Rubi began, but he cut her off, his voice rising. "Don't interrupt me, Rubi. You think this is a game? I'm not playing along with your little charade. Anaya deserves respect, and I don't give anyone the right to insult her." 

Ria and Misha exchanged triumphant glances, their expressions filled with pride for Rudra's defense of Anaya. Anaya's heart soared at his words, a mixture of love and admiration flooding her senses. She could see the rage simmering beneath his calm exterior, a fierce protectiveness that made her feel cherished.

Jaya, taken aback by Rudra's intensity, hesitated for a moment before retaliating. "You don't have to defend her, Rudra. She doesn't belong here," she snapped, her face flushed with anger.

Rakhi interjected; her voice laced with authority. "Jaya, you don't have to say that. Anaya is family now, and she deserves our support."

As tension escalated, each Singhaniya lady began to take Anaya's side, expressing their admiration for her strength and resilience. "You've done so well in such a short time, Anaya," Misha said, her tone genuinely supportive. "We all see how hard you've worked."

Anaya felt tears prick her eyes as warmth enveloped her. Despite the hostility from the Kukrejas, the women in the Singhaniya family were rallying around her, each small gesture building her confidence.

"I agree," Ria chimed in. "You've shown more grace than anyone could have expected. And you've brought so much joy into our lives."

Anaya glanced at Rudra, who stood close beside her, his expression a mixture of anger and pride. She could feel the tension in him, the way his body radiated heat as he faced the Kukrejas. It was intoxicating, the way he fought for her.

Meanwhile, Rubi's expression soured, jealousy flickering in her eyes. "This isn't fair," she muttered under her breath, casting a glance at her mother, who seemed at a loss for words.

Anaya felt empowered, the collective strength of the Singhaniya women bolstering her resolve. But just as she began to relax, Jaya's voice cut through the air once more. "You all talk about her efforts, but what has she really achieved? A poor girl pretending to be something she's not?"

The comment hung in the air, sharp and bitter. Anaya's heart sank, and she felt the familiar sting of humiliation creeping in. But before she could react, Rudra took a step forward, his expression now dangerously cold.

"Enough, Jaya," he said, his voice low but filled with fury. "You're crossing a line."

He turned to Anaya, his eyes softening momentarily. "I'm so sorry, Anaya. You shouldn't have to endure this. I should have been here." 

Ravi, standing beside him, placed a supportive hand on his shoulder. "Let's not let them ruin breakfast. You're stronger than this," he said, his tone calm and reassuring.

But before Rudra could reply, Rubi stepped in, her tone overly sweet. "Oh Rudra, don't be angry! We just want to help Anaya adjust. It's not easy for her, is it?" 

Rudra's jaw tightened. "You don't get to dictate what happens here. Anaya is doing just fine, and if you can't see that, maybe you need to reevaluate your perspective."

Jaya scoffed, but before she could respond, the doorbell rang, cutting

 through the tension. 

"Who could that be?" Misha asked, glancing toward the entrance. 

"I'll check," Rudra said, his voice still low and tense. He released Anaya's hand, and the moment felt like a void opening between them. 

As he strode toward the door, Anaya couldn't help but feel a sense of loss, like a thread pulling taut. She admired the way he carried himself, his broad shoulders set against the backdrop of the grand mansion, radiating strength and determination. The suit he wore clung to him perfectly, enhancing his athletic physique and making him look every bit the powerful man he was.

Rubi watched him leave, her jealousy boiling over. "Such a hero," she muttered, eyes narrowing. "He's so blinded by love for her, he can't even see how ridiculous she is."

Anaya took a breath, attempting to calm her racing heart. The conflict around her felt suffocating, but she refused to let them see her falter. The anger she felt was not just for herself but for Rudra, who had to deal with this chaos on her behalf.

Moments later, Rudra returned with an expression of surprise, his mood visibly shifting. "Well, well, if it isn't Mr. Kukreja," he said, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife. "What brings you here?"

Anaya turned to see Arun Kukreja, Jaya's husband, entering the room. His presence seemed to change the dynamics again, a storm brewing behind the polite smiles.

"Rudra, I came to check on the family," Arun said, his tone casual, but there was a glimmer of concern in his eyes. "I heard there was some… commotion."

"Just the usual," Rudra replied curtly, his gaze sweeping the room, landing on Anaya. "We were just discussing family matters."

Arun's expression shifted, a flicker of understanding passing between him and Rudra. The weight of unspoken words lingered, and Anaya could feel the tension in the air thickening once more. 

Rubi seized the moment, her voice dripping with faux concern. "Oh, I hope we haven't upset anyone," she said, her eyes flicking from Rudra to Arun, searching for validation. "Anaya has just been such a… challenge."

Arun raised an eyebrow at her words, and Rudra's body stiffened beside Anaya, the air crackling with tension. "Rubi, I suggest you keep your opinions to yourself," he said, his voice steady but laced with anger. 

Anaya felt a swell of gratitude towards Rudra, his fierce loyalty making her heart race. It was a feeling she wanted to hold onto, a stark contrast to the pain of being belittled.

As breakfast continued, the atmosphere oscillated between tension and false pleasantries. Rudra remained close to Anaya, his body language protective, and she could sense the unyielding warmth radiating from him. 

Finally, as the Kukrejas finished their meal and prepared to leave, Rudra stood, his expression fierce. "Let me be clear," he said, his voice commanding attention. "Anaya is my wife, and I won't tolerate anyone insulting her or her family. If you can't respect that, then maybe it's best you don't come here again."

The room fell silent, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. Anaya's heart swelled with pride and love as she met his gaze, feeling a rush of emotions. She saw the fierce protectiveness etched into his features, a reminder that he was on her side no matter what.

As the Kukrejas departed, Rudra's anger still simmered beneath the surface. He turned to Anaya, his expression softening as he approached her. "I'm sorry you had to face that. You didn't deserve it."

"It's okay, Rudra. I can handle it," she replied, her voice steady. "I just want to be a part of this family."

His gaze held hers, a depth of emotion flickering in his dark eyes. "You are already part of this family. And I promise to make sure they treat you as such." 

Anaya's heart raced at his words, the warmth spreading through her. But even as she felt a sense of belonging, a shadow loomed over her, a reminder of the battles yet to come. 

As the day wore on, Rudra retreated to his room, his anger still simmering. Anaya felt a tug at her heart, wanting to support him as he wrestled with his emotions. She couldn't stand the thought of him being alone, especially after the confrontation.

With determination, she took a plate of food and rushed towards his room. But before she could reach the door, she paused, the weight of uncertainty settling in her chest. She knocked softly, the sound echoing in the stillness.

"Come in," Rudra's voice came through, low and tense.

She opened the door, her heart racing as she stepped inside. The sight of him was intoxicating—Rudra had changed into a simple black t-shirt and loose pants, the casual attire accentuating his muscular build. 

"Hey," he said, his voice softer now as he noticed her presence. "You didn't have to bring me anything."

"I wanted to," she replied, feeling her cheeks flush. "I thought you might need something to eat."

He glanced at the plate, then back at her, a small smile tugging at his lips. "You're always so thoughtful."

As they sat in silence, Anaya could feel the tension in him, a whirlwind of emotions battling within. She wanted to reach out, to comfort him, but the weight of the earlier confrontation lingered like a shadow.

"Rudra, I'm sorry about what happened today," she said, her voice steady. "I didn't mean to cause any trouble."

He shook his head, the frustration evident in his features. "This isn't your fault, Anaya. I just—" he paused, running a hand through his hair. "I hate that you have to deal with people like Jaya and Rubi. They don't know what they're talking about."

Anaya could see the guilt etched into his expression, the way he wrestled with his protective instincts. "But I'm okay, really. I can handle them," she reassured him, a gentle smile spreading across her face.

"Still, it shouldn't be your burden to bear," he replied, his voice low. "I should have been there."

"You were busy with work. I understand," she said, her heart aching at the thought of him feeling guilty. 

Rudra's gaze held hers, and for a moment, the world outside faded away. She could see the storm of emotions in his eyes—anger, possessiveness, guilt—all swirling around like a tempest. 

"I care about you, Anaya. More than I ever thought possible," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "And I want to protect you from all of this."

Anaya felt a rush of warmth at his admission, her heart swelling with love and admiration. "I know you do, and I appreciate it more than you can imagine."

Rudra took her hand, his grip firm and reassuring. "I won't let anyone belittle you. You're stronger than they think, and I'll make sure they realize that."

His possessiveness sent a shiver down her spine, a thrill coursing through her. She knew that beneath his cold exterior lay a man fiercely devoted to her well-being, willing to fight against anyone who dared to challenge her.

As they sat in silence, the connection between them deepened, the unspoken understanding of their bond wrapping around them like a warm embrace. Anaya's heart raced, filled with hope and love as she leaned closer to him.

In that moment, despite the chaos outside, she felt like she had finally found her place—right beside Rudra, in a world where love conquered all.

_______________________

As Anaya and Rudra sat in his room, the atmosphere shifted from the tension of earlier to a comforting intimacy. The soft light filtering through the curtains cast a warm glow around them, accentuating the serene yet charged air. Rudra was still dressed in the simple black t-shirt and loose pants, which highlighted his toned physique. Anaya wore a light blue, flowy dress that fell just above her knees, its delicate fabric swaying gently with her movements. She felt beautiful and safe in his presence, her heart racing as she caught his gaze.

Rudra leaned back against the headboard, pulling Anaya closer. "I can't believe how they treated you today," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. Anaya felt the warmth of his body against hers as she nestled into his side, resting her head on his shoulder. His arm wrapped around her protectively, drawing her in as if she were a lifeline.

"It's okay," Anaya reassured him, her fingers intertwining with his. "I can handle it. But I appreciate you standing up for me. It means a lot." She looked up at him, meeting his intense gaze, feeling the weight of his love in that moment.

"I won't let anyone disrespect you, Anaya," he declared, his voice low and earnest. "You're my wife, and I'll always protect you." The strength in his words made her heart swell with pride. In his arms, she felt invincible.

Just then, they heard a commotion from downstairs. The voices of Ria, Komal, Rakhi, and Misha filtered through the air, drawing their attention. Rudra sighed, running a hand through his hair, slightly annoyed. "I wonder what they're discussing now," he said, his tone hinting at both curiosity and irritation.

Anaya chuckled softly, feeling lighter. "Let's not let them ruin our moment," she teased, leaning closer and planting a soft kiss on his cheek.

Rudra smirked, the corner of his lips lifting in a way that made her heart flutter. "You're right," he said, but before she could pull away, he gently grabbed her waist, pulling her into his lap. Anaya gasped, her surprise quickly turning into laughter as she settled comfortably against him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"See? Much better," he said, his breath warm against her ear. Anaya could feel the heat radiating from his body, and she instinctively snuggled closer, her heart racing as she wrapped her legs around his waist, feeling the solidity of him beneath her.

Downstairs: Family Conversations

Meanwhile, downstairs, the atmosphere was a mix of tension and familial pride as the family gathered around the breakfast table. Ria and Misha sat side by side, each taking bites of their breakfast while they engaged in lively conversation.

"I can't believe how Rudra handled that," Ria remarked, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "He really stood up for Anaya. I'm so proud of him!"

Misha nodded enthusiastically; her voice tinged with awe. "He's always been protective, but today he was on another level! I mean, it's like he turned into a lion defending his cub."

Rakhi, listening nearby, smiled at her children's praises. "He learned from the best," she said, her tone filled with warmth. "Your grandfather was the same way—fiercely protective of the family. It runs in our blood."

"Absolutely," Komal, their grandmother, chimed in, pride evident in her eyes. "Rudra is just like his grandfather. He knows the importance of family and will do anything to protect what's his."

Just then, Ravi entered the room, overhearing the conversation. He grinned as he approached the table. "You all talking about Rudra? Of course, he's a force to be reckoned with. and no one gonna be like him".

Ria rolled her eyes playfully. "Sure, Ravi. Keep dreaming. We all know Rudra is the real protector around here," she teased.

Ravi feigned a wounded expression, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. "Fine, fine. But I'm still proud of him. He's not just older son of this family, he's our shield."

Back in the Room

Back in Rudra's room, the energy between him and Anaya shifted as she felt his warmth enveloping her. They could hear the laughter and chatter from downstairs, a reminder of the family bond surrounding them. Rudra's arms tightened around her, pulling her closer as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

"I love having you here like this," he murmured softly, his voice a deep rumble. "You make everything better."

"Our seventh date is left yet," Anaya said playfully, a teasing smile dancing on her lips.

Rudra raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Why last? What about tonight?" 

Anaya's eyes sparkled with mischief. "You asked me to prove your seven chances—seven dates to show your love," she replied, feeling a surge of pride and confidence from what had transpired downstairs. 

Rudra leaned closer, a warm grin spreading across his face. "Then let's make tonight unforgettable," he said, his voice low and inviting, igniting a spark of excitement within her. 

Anaya couldn't help but feel a flutter of joy, relishing in the playful banter and the connection they shared. She was ready to embrace whatever came next, her heart light and her spirit high.

_______

Anaya glanced at the clock on the wall, reality creeping back into her playful bubble. "I should go to the office now," she said, reluctantly breaking the comfortable silence that had enveloped them.

But before she could stand up, Rudra's hand shot out, gently yet firmly gripping her wrist. "Wait," he said, his voice low, laced with a hint of urgency. His eyes held a depth that made her heart race, filled with a mixture of warmth and something she couldn't quite name.

"What is it?" Anaya asked, looking up into his intense gaze. She felt a rush of electricity between them, the air thick with unspoken words.

"I just..." he trailed off, his thumb brushing softly against her wrist, sending shivers down her spine. "I don't want you to go just yet. Can't we have a few more moments together? Just you and me?"

His tone was soft, almost pleading, and it made her heart flutter. She could see the way his expression shifted, revealing a vulnerability beneath his strong exterior. It was a side of him she cherished—the one that showed how deeply he cared for her.

"Five more minutes, Velvet," he said, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as he used her nickname, which made her feel cherished. "That's all you get."

Anaya smiled softly, a warmth spreading through her chest. "Rudra, I really have to finish some work. It's important."

"I understand that," he said, his voice dropping to a whisper as he leaned closer, his breath warm against her skin. "But can't it wait a little longer? Just five more minutes. I need to feel you here with me."

She looked into his eyes, searching for any sign of frustration or impatience, but all she found was an earnest desire to be close to her. The way he held her gaze made her feel like the most important person in the world.

"Okay, five minutes," she relented, her heart racing with excitement. "But then I have to go."

Rudra's face broke into a smile, and he pulled her gently into his lap, wrapping his arms around her waist. The warmth of his body enveloped her, and Anaya melted into him, feeling safe and cherished. She could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against her back, grounding her in the moment.

"You have no idea how much I needed this," he murmured, resting his chin atop her shoulder, his voice low and intimate.

Anaya closed her eyes, leaning back against him, relishing the closeness. "I think I do," she replied softly, her heart swelling with affection. The world outside faded away, leaving just the two of them, cocooned in their own little haven.

"Tonight, after everything calms down, we'll go out. Just you and me," he promised, his breath warm against her ear. "I want to make this special."

Anaya's heart fluttered at the thought, a smile tugging at her lips. "I'd like that," she said, feeling a rush of excitement at the prospect of their upcoming date.

Rudra tightened his hold on her, his fingers gently intertwining with hers. "You make everything better, Velvet," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I don't want to lose these moments with you."

Anaya turned slightly to look at him, her heart racing. "You won't," she assured him, her voice steady. "I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere."

For a brief moment, they simply sat there, enjoying the silence, the only sound being the quiet thrum of their hearts and the world outside fading into insignificance.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Rudra pulled back slightly, his gaze searching hers. "Okay, I'll let you go. But promise me you'll text me when you get to the office."

"I promise," Anaya replied, reluctant to break their intimate moment.

As she rose to leave, Rudra caught her hand again, pulling her back just enough to lean in and press a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I'll be waiting for that text," he whispered, his eyes filled with warmth and affection.

Anaya stepped away reluctantly, her heart still racing from the closeness they had just shared. "See you tonight," she said, flashing him a smile that she hoped conveyed all her feelings.

"See you tonight, Velvet," he echoed, watching her leave with a mixture of longing and admiration, already counting down the minutes until he would see her again.

To be continue...***