Mine Yes! : Forced to be yours Mr.Devil

__________@UTHOR'S POV:-

Anaya's heels clicked softly against the marble floors of the Singhaniya mansion as she entered, her bag slung over one shoulder and a lightness in her step. The day had been exhausting yet fulfilling, but the thought of coming home, sharing her heart, and reliving the previous night kept her energized. The memory of Rudra's words, his touch, and the way he had placed the ring on her finger played like a cherished melody in her mind. 

She pushed open the heavy front doors, her smile widening as she saw the familiar figures of Rakhi and Komal seated in the living room. Rakhi was engrossed in a recipe book, her brow furrowed as she jotted notes in the margins, while Komal sipped her evening tea, her posture as poised as ever. 

"Anaya!" Rakhi exclaimed, looking up as her daughter-in-law approached. "You're home early today. Did everything go well at the office?" 

Anaya nodded, her smile softening. "It did. I finished most of my tasks earlier than expected, so I thought I'd come home and catch up with everyone." 

Komal's sharp eyes studied her as she approached the couch, her movements almost floaty. Something about the girl's demeanor was different today, lighter, as if she was carrying an invisible secret she wasn't ready to share yet. 

Anaya plopped down beside Rakhi, resting her head on her mother-in-law's shoulder in a gesture of trust and comfort. Rakhi welcomed her warmly, smoothing down a stray strand of Anaya's hair. 

"You look like you had a good day," Rakhi commented, her tone teasing. "Was it really the office that has you smiling like this, or is there something else you're not telling us?" 

Anaya laughed, the sound soft and melodious. "It's just been a good couple of days, Maa. That's all." 

Komal hummed thoughtfully, her gaze flicking to Anaya's hands. She wasn't one to miss details, and the glint of a new ring on Anaya's finger didn't escape her notice. It wasn't the sort of jewelry Anaya typically wore to work; it was subtle yet significant, its elegance speaking volumes. 

"What's cooking between you two?" Anaya asked suddenly, lifting her head and glancing between Rakhi and Komal. She stretched her arms lazily, then leaned back, her tone playful. "You both look like you're plotting something." 

"Just dinner," Rakhi replied with a chuckle. "We've been debating what to make for the family. You know how everyone has their own preferences." 

Komal's lips twitched, her eyes still on Anaya. "Dinner might be on the table soon, but you have someone else waiting for you upstairs. Miss Ria has been pacing in her room like a caged tiger, mumbling about being neglected by her 'so-called best friend.'" 

Anaya gasped, her eyes widening. "Oh no, poor Ria! I meant to talk to her earlier, but the day got so busy. I'll go see her right now." 

"Take it slow," Komal said softly, her words carrying more weight than they seemed to. "And be careful. Good things deserve to be handled with care." 

The way Komal said it made Anaya pause. She glanced at her grandmother-in-law, feeling the subtle but knowing undertone in her voice. Was it possible Komal had guessed what had transpired between her and Rudra? But before she could dwell on it, Rakhi playfully nudged her shoulder. 

"Go on, beta," Rakhi said with a smile. "Ria's been waiting all evening." 

Anaya nodded, standing up and smoothing her dress. "I'll be back before dinner." She turned to Komal, offering her a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Daadi." 

Komal's expression softened, her eyes glimmering with a quiet pride. "Go. And remember, no running in the house." 

Anaya chuckled, dashing toward the stairs with an energy that belied her long day. 

---

Ria's Room

Anaya barely had time to knock before Ria's voice called out from inside. "If it's you, Anaya, get in here right now! I've been waiting forever!" 

Anaya pushed the door open, greeted by the sight of Ria sprawled across her bed. Her best friend's room was a mix of chaos and personality—college notes scattered across the bed, a half-empty mug of coffee on the nightstand, and posters of motivational quotes pinned to the walls. 

"Finally!" Ria exclaimed, sitting up and folding her arms. "Do you have any idea how neglected I feel? You disappear all day, and when you come back, I have to wait while you play perfect bahu downstairs." 

Anaya laughed, closing the door behind her. "I'm sorry, Ria! The office has been hectic, and then I got caught up talking to Maa and Daadi. But I'm here now." 

Ria narrowed her eyes. "You'd better be, because I have a lot of complaints to file. Starting with—wait, hold on. What's that?" 

Before Anaya could react, Ria grabbed her hand, her eyes widening as they landed on the ring. 

"Is this what I think it is?" Ria asked, her voice rising in excitement. "Did Rudra actually—oh my god, Anaya, spill everything right now!" 

Anaya's cheeks flushed as she nodded, unable to suppress her smile. "He did. Last night. It was... unexpected, but perfect." 

Ria squealed, pulling Anaya onto the bed beside her. "Details! I want every single detail, Anaya. Don't you dare leave anything out." 

For the next half-hour, Anaya recounted the events of the previous night, from Rudra's uncharacteristically vulnerable confession to the way he had slipped the ring onto her finger. She spoke of his words, his touch, and the emotions she had seen in his eyes—emotions she never thought he was capable of showing. 

By the time she finished, Ria was practically bouncing with excitement. "I can't believe this! My best friend is living a fairy tale while I'm stuck writing boring assignments. It's so unfair." 

Anaya laughed, pulling Ria into a tight hug. "You'll have your moment too, Ria. Just wait. And when it happens, I'll be right here to tease you mercilessly." 

Ria pulled back, grinning. "Deal. But for now, I'm going to live vicariously through you. So, what's next? Are you two going on a honeymoon? Have you talked about the future?" 

Anaya hesitated, her smile faltering slightly. "We're still figuring things out. Rudra is... complicated. But I think we're finally starting to understand each other." 

Ria nodded, her expression softening. "He's lucky to have you, Anaya. And I'm lucky to have you as my best friend." 

Anaya smiled, her heart full as they continued talking late into the evening. Despite the changes in her life, some things—like her bond with Ria—remained steadfast. And that was a comfort she would always treasure. 

-------

The next morning, the Singhaniya mansion was alive with its usual hum of activity. Sunlight poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the elegant decor and casting a golden glow over everything it touched. In the kitchen, the clinking of utensils and the aroma of freshly brewed tea mingled with the chatter of the household staff preparing breakfast.

Anaya sat at the dining table, dressed in a pale yellow salwar kameez, her hair in a simple braid over one shoulder. The brightness of the morning seemed to reflect her mood. Her thoughts wandered back to the conversation she had with Ria the night before, the way her best friend had teased her mercilessly about Rudra's romantic gesture, and the warmth that filled her when she relived those moments aloud. 

As she sipped her tea, Rakhi entered the room, her hands clasped behind her back and her usual air of gentle authority intact. "Anaya, beta, have you seen Rudra this morning? He left early, didn't he?" 

Anaya nodded, setting her cup down. "Yes, Maa. He mentioned something about a meeting with the board. He didn't want to wake anyone, so he slipped out quietly." 

Rakhi smiled softly, sitting down beside her. "That's Rudra for you—always work first. But I see he's been changing, little by little. And I think I know why." 

Anaya's cheeks flushed, but before she could respond, Komal entered the room, her gait steady and commanding as ever. Her sharp eyes swept over Anaya, lingering briefly on her left hand where the ring glimmered under the morning light. A knowing smile tugged at Komal's lips as she took her seat at the head of the table. 

"Good morning, Daadi," Anaya greeted, her voice warm but laced with shyness. 

"Good morning, child," Komal replied, pouring herself a cup of tea. Her tone was light, but the look she gave Anaya was anything but casual. "I trust you slept well after all the excitement yesterday?" 

Anaya's lips parted in surprise, her eyes darting to Rakhi, who looked just as confused. "Excitement?" Rakhi asked, tilting her head. 

"Oh, nothing," Komal said breezily, taking a sip of her tea. "I'm just speaking of the way young love seems to light up the house these days." 

Anaya bit her lip, her heart pounding. Did Daadi know about the ring? Had she figured it out, or was she simply teasing? Rakhi, meanwhile, seemed to pick up on none of the subtext, turning to Anaya with a motherly smile. 

"Well, I'm glad to see you're settling in, Anaya. It's not easy being part of such a large and demanding family, but you're handling it beautifully." 

Anaya returned the smile, grateful for Rakhi's kind words. "Thank you, Maa. It's been an adjustment, but I'm lucky to have all of you." 

Komal set her cup down with a gentle clink, her expression softening. "Speaking of family, Ria was asking about you again this morning. I believe she's still sulking from the days you've been too busy to spend time with her. Perhaps you should go see her before the poor girl starts writing a grievance letter." 

Anaya laughed, the sound light and musical. "I was planning to check on her before heading to the office. I'll go now." 

"Take your time," Komal said, her tone teasing yet laced with genuine care. "And don't trip over your excitement. We wouldn't want another broken vase." 

Anaya stood, shaking her head with a laugh. "Thank you for the vote of confidence, Daadi." 

---

Ria Room

When Anaya entered Ria's room, she found her best friend lounging on her bed, flipping through her phone with an exaggerated pout on her face. The sight made Anaya chuckle, and she leaned against the doorframe, crossing her arms. 

"You look like someone just canceled your Netflix subscription," Anaya said, her tone playful. 

Ria looked up, her eyes narrowing as she set her phone aside. "Ha ha, very funny. You're late, Mrs. Perfect. I've been waiting for ages." 

Anaya walked over and sat on the edge of the bed, pulling a pillow into her lap. "I'm sorry! I got caught up downstairs. Maa and Grandma wouldn't let me leave without a full breakfast." 

Ria huffed, but her expression softened. "Fine, you're forgiven. But only because I'm in a good mood today." 

"Oh?" Anaya raised an eyebrow. "And what's put you in such a generous mood?" 

Ria grinned, leaning closer. "Because I've decided to be magnanimous and let you brag about your perfect husband and his romantic gestures. So, spill! What happened last night?" 

Anaya laughed, swatting Ria with the pillow. "You're impossible!" 

"And you love me for it," Ria shot back, her grin widening. 

Anaya sighed, settling back against the headboard. "Fine. But only if you promise not to tease me too much." 

"No promises," Ria said, her tone sing-song. 

For the next hour, Anaya recounted every detail of her evening with Rudra—the quiet moments, the unexpected vulnerability, and the way he had placed the ring on her finger as if sealing their bond. Ria listened intently, her expressions ranging from dreamy sighs to exaggerated swoons. 

"Ugh, why is your life turning into a Bollywood movie while I'm stuck being the comic relief side character?" Ria complained, throwing herself dramatically onto the bed. 

Anaya giggled, patting Ria's shoulder. "Your time will come, Ria. And when it does, I'll be here to hear all about it." 

Ria rolled onto her side, resting her chin on her hand. "You're lucky, you know. Not just because of Rudra, but because you have this whole family that genuinely cares about you. It's rare." 

Anaya's smile softened, her eyes glistening with emotion. "I know. And I don't take it for granted." 

The two friends sat in comfortable silence for a while, their bond unspoken but deeply felt. Whatever challenges lay ahead, Anaya knew she could face them with Ria by her side. 

---

Downstairs, Komal watched the door to Ria's room with a small, knowing smile. Love, she thought, wasn't just about romance. It was about friendship, family, and the quiet moments that made life worth living. And in her heart, she knew Anaya and Ria would protect each other through it all.

**Chapter 29: Bonds Beyond Words** 

Anaya and Ria's laughter echoed down the hallway as they stepped out of the room, arm in arm, their conversation flowing seamlessly from one topic to another. Their bond was effortless, the kind that didn't require constant validation but thrived on shared moments, big and small. 

As they made their way to the living room, Ria tugged on Anaya's hand, her eyes lighting up mischievously. "You know, Anaya, just because you're married now doesn't mean you get to leave me behind in all your drama. I demand full access to everything. Including any secret plans Rudra has for you." 

Anaya rolled her eyes, though her lips quirked into a smile. "You're unbelievable. And for your information, Rudra isn't exactly the open-book type." 

Ria smirked. "That's where I come in. I'm excellent at cracking codes, you know." 

Before Anaya could respond, Komal appeared at the other end of the hallway, her authoritative presence cutting through their playful banter. She carried herself with the elegance of someone who commanded respect without needing to demand it. 

"Ah, the inseparable duo," Komal said, her voice carrying an undertone of teasing. "Plotting world domination, are we?" 

Ria straightened, feigning an innocent expression. "Daadi, I was just convincing Anaya to share all her juicy secrets with me." 

Komal raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a sly smile. "Juicy secrets? Anaya, are you hiding something from us?" 

Anaya flushed under her grandmother-in-law's gaze, instinctively reaching up to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. "Nothing like that, Daadi. Just… Ria being Ria." 

Komal chuckled, her laughter a warm, unexpected sound that filled the corridor. "Good. Keep her on her toes, Ria. But remember, don't let your own work suffer while chasing after your sister-in-law's life." 

Ria groaned dramatically, throwing her head back. "Daadi, you wound me! I'm always on top of my work." 

Komal tilted her head, her expression amused. "Really? I seem to recall a certain someone complaining about unfinished assignments not too long ago." 

Ria's mouth opened, then closed, and she shot Anaya a sheepish look. "Traitor!" she whispered under her breath. 

Anaya giggled, raising her hands in mock surrender. "I didn't say anything!" 

Komal, satisfied with her playful scolding, gestured for the girls to follow her downstairs. "Come, let's have some tea. It's been a while since we all sat together without everyone running off in different directions." 

---

**The Living Room** 

The three women settled into the plush sofas, the afternoon sun streaming in through the large windows. Rakhi joined them shortly after, balancing a tray of tea and snacks. She handed Anaya her cup with a motherly smile before taking her seat beside Komal. 

"So, Anaya," Rakhi began, her tone light but curious. "How's the new office life treating you? I hope the workload isn't too overwhelming." 

Anaya shook her head, her braid swaying gently over her shoulder. "Not at all, Maa. Everyone's been kind, and I'm learning a lot. It's challenging but fulfilling." 

Ria, who was perched on the armrest of the sofa, leaned forward with a mock scowl. "You hear that, Daadi? She's already acclimated, while I'm here drowning in assignments." 

Komal arched an eyebrow, her lips twitching. "Perhaps you should take a page from Anaya's book instead of whining." 

Ria pouted, crossing her arms. "I'm telling you, the universe is against me. First, I'm stuck in college while Anaya's out conquering the world. And now, Rudra has stolen her away, leaving me with no partner for my antics." 

Anaya placed her cup down, her expression softening. "Ria, you know that's not true. No matter where I am, you'll always be my best friend first." 

Ria's pout dissolved into a grin, and she threw her arms around Anaya in an exaggerated hug. "Okay, fine. I forgive you. But you owe me weekly updates about everything. And I mean *everything*." 

Komal, watching the scene unfold, exchanged a look with Rakhi. The two women shared a smile, silently appreciating the bond between the younger generation. 

As the conversation turned lighter, Komal leaned closer to Rakhi, her voice low enough for only her daughter-in-law to hear. "Did you notice the ring on her finger?" 

Rakhi's eyes widened slightly as her gaze shifted to Anaya's hand, where the delicate diamond caught the light. Her lips parted, but before she could say anything, Anaya turned to them, her cheeks pink. 

"Daadi, Maa," she said quickly, "I should go check on Rudra's study. He left some papers behind this morning, and I promised to sort them out." 

Komal's eyes sparkled with amusement as she waved Anaya off. "Go on, child. But take your time. There's no rush." 

---

**Chapter 30: A Day Just for Us**

The morning light gently filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow on the room where Anaya and Ria were getting ready. It was a rare occasion, one where neither of them had to worry about work or responsibilities. Today was all about them—just a girls' day.

Anaya stood in front of her mirror, brushing her hair into loose waves. She had decided to take the day off from the office, a rare luxury that she didn't often allow herself. But today, it was important. She wanted to unwind, to laugh and talk freely with her best friend without worrying about meetings, reports, or deadlines. She smiled at the thought, feeling a sense of freedom she hadn't realized she was missing.

Ria, on the other hand, was already lounging on her bed, scrolling through her phone. Her eyes lit up when Anaya walked over, a playful grin spreading across her face.

"Okay, okay, spill it! What's the plan?" Ria asked, tossing her phone aside.

Anaya chuckled, carefully selecting a pair of hoop earrings to match her outfit. "You're not going to believe this, but I took the day off. No work, no interruptions. Just you and me. We're going to have the best time today."

Ria's eyes widened, and she bounced up from the bed. "No way! You didn't!" 

Anaya smiled, nodding. "I did. I figured we needed a break. No Rudra, no responsibilities, just us girls hanging out."

Ria let out a little squeal of excitement, clapping her hands together. "I love you, Anaya! This is going to be so much fun. What do you have planned?"

Anaya paused for a moment, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well, I was thinking we could start with breakfast at that cute café downtown. You know, the one with the amazing waffles?"

Ria grinned, already pulling on a pair of jeans. "Yesss! And then what?"

Anaya raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Then we go shopping. I need a few new outfits for the office, and I know you're dying to check out that new store in the mall. After that, maybe a spa day?"

Ria's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh my God, Anaya, this is the best idea ever. I feel like we're in high school again, sneaking away from everything."

Anaya laughed, brushing through her hair one last time. "I know, right? I'm so glad we're doing this. We need it. It's been so long since we had time just for ourselves."

The two of them continued to get ready, the room filled with the sound of laughter and playful banter. As Anaya picked out a light pink blouse and paired it with a skirt, Ria slid into a cute summer dress, the kind that made her feel both relaxed and put together.

"I think I'm finally ready for this," Ria said, spinning in front of the mirror with a wide grin. "And Rudra's going to be so confused when he finds out we're spending the day without him."

Anaya's smile faltered slightly at the mention of Rudra, but she quickly masked it. She didn't want to think about him today. This was about them, about friendship, and about taking a moment to breathe without the weight of her new responsibilities. 

She grabbed her purse, slipping on her favorite pair of sunglasses. "Well, we're going to have fun, and that's all that matters. Let's go before we change our minds!"

The girls shared a last glance, excitement and anticipation clear in their expressions. Today was going to be their day. They didn't need anyone else, not even the men they loved, to make this perfect.

---

**The Day Unfolds**

By mid-morning, the two of them found themselves sitting at the outdoor café, a warm breeze brushing past them as they sipped on their iced coffees. The sun was shining, and there was a lightness in the air that mirrored their mood.

"So," Ria said between bites of her waffle, "how is married life treating you, huh? Are you and Rudra still in the honeymoon phase?"

Anaya paused, her fork hovering in midair. She had expected this question, but still, it felt strange to think about it. She glanced down at the engagement ring on her finger, a reminder of the commitment she had made to Rudra, but also a symbol of the distance she often felt from him.

"It's... different," Anaya replied slowly, her voice quieter than she intended. "Rudra is... complex, you know? He's not the easiest person to get close to. He has a lot going on, especially with the company and everything."

Ria's eyes softened. "Yeah, I get it. But you know he loves you, right? I can see it in the way he looks at you. He just doesn't know how to show it sometimes. Men, right?" she added with a playful roll of her eyes.

Anaya couldn't help but smile at her best friend's words. "You're right. He does love me, I just wish sometimes he'd show it more... openly, you know? But I'm trying to be patient."

Ria leaned forward, giving her a knowing look. "Well, patience is one thing, but don't forget to take care of yourself too, okay? You deserve the world, Anaya. You deserve to be loved the way you need to be loved."

Anaya nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude for Ria's friendship. "I know. And that's why I'm so glad we're doing this today. Just us. It's been too long."

The day continued on with laughter, shopping, and even a luxurious spa experience. Anaya had forgotten how much fun it was to simply let go, to not think about the pressure of work or relationships. 

By the time the sun began to set, they found themselves walking along the beach, their shoes in hand as they let the cool water lap at their feet. 

"This was exactly what I needed," Anaya said, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "Thank you, Ria."

Ria wrapped an arm around her. "Anytime, Anaya. You're my best friend. We're in this together, no matter what."

And for that moment, Anaya believed it. There was no worry, no stress, just the sound of the ocean and the quiet, unspoken bond between the two of them. This was the kind of day she would remember—when life seemed simpler, and her heart was lighter.

To be continue....