Reyansh’s POV]

The world sees me as the cold, calculating CEO of Malhotra Enterprises. They see the tailored suits, the glass office, and the power I hold in the city’s shadows. But the moment I step into the Malhotra Mansion, I’m not a king—I’m just the eldest grandson who gets teased for being "too serious."

I walked through the heavy mahogany doors, my mind still on the merger... and that girl. Aarohi. The way her bangles had clinked when she shook her head—it was like a melody that wouldn't stop playing in my brain.

Bhai! Aap aa gaye!" My younger sister Riya came running, nearly tripping over her own feet. She’s bubbly and chaotic, the polar opposite of my silence. "Did you see her? Did you see Aarohi? Isn't she the cutest?"

"I dropped you off, Riya. I didn't go for a photoshoot," I replied coolly, handing my coat to the butler.

"Jhooth mat bolo, Reyansh," a booming, playful voice echoed. My grandfather, Raghav Malhotra (Dadu), was sitting in his favorite armchair, sipping tea. "The way you were staring at that door when you came back to the car... your eyes were saying things your tongue never does."

Dadu, please. Business was on my mind," I muttered, but my grandmother Savita (Dadi) walked over, pinching my cheek.

"Business, business, business! Beta, itmy mother,  Dadi scolded gently. "Maine tumhare liye badam ka halwa banaya hai. Fresh ho jao aur dinner pe aao."

The dining room was already a battlefield of laughter. My father, Vikram, and Rajat Chachu were were discussing the new hotel project, while my mother, Priyanka, was busy laughing with Simran Chachi and my Bua, Sunaina.

Look at him! The King has arrived," Kabir, my younger brother, smirked. He’s 21, mischievous as hell, and my biggest headache. "Bhai, suna hai Sharma ji ki beti ne aapki 'Stone Wall' mein crack kar diya hai?

Kabir, focus on your pasta before I focus on your pocket money," I said, taking my seat.

Arey, don't threaten the boy!" Arnav, my best friend and right-hand man, sat next to me. He’s the only one who knows the darker side of my work—the 'mafia' matters that keep our family safe. He’s fearless and loyal, but even he had a smirk on his face today. "He’s right though, Rey. You’ve been distracted since this morning."

Arnav, not you too," I groaned.

The table was a mess of voices. Aarav was talking to Dad about the branch office, Ishaan was trying to put salt in Tara’s juice, and Bua was giving Riya advice on how to skip classes without getting caught. It was a circus, but it was my circus

After dinner, I walked out to the backyard, needing the cold night air. The shadows moved, and a low, rumbling growl vibrated through the grass.

"Easy, boy," I whispered.

Out of the darkness emerged Raavan. Most people would be terrified of a full-grown tiger, but Raavan was my brother in spirit. He rubbed his massive head against my hand, his golden eyes reflecting the moonlight. He was fierce, loyal, and the only one who truly understood my silence.

You would like her, Raavan," I murmured, stroking his fur. "She’s loud, bubbly... and she smells like jasmine."

Raavan let out a soft huffas if agreeing.

"Thinking about her again?" My mother, Priyanka, joined me on the porch. She didn’t look like a typical strict mother; she was elegant and always full of life. She leaned against the railing. "Riya told me about Aarohi. She said the girl is sensitive, talkative, and a bit moody."

She’s a mess, Mom," I said, though my heart didn't agree.The best people are," she smiled, patting my shoulder. "If she makes you smile—even a little bit—then she’s welcome in this house anytime. I’d love to have some 'bubbly' energy around here to balance your 'grumpy' face."

As she walked back inside, I looked at the city lights. I am Reyansh Malhotra. I don't believe in "love at first sight." I believe in logic, power, and control.

But as I closed my eyes, all I could hear was the sound of those bangles. Aarohi Sharma. She didn't know it yet, but she had just walked into a lion's den—and I wasn't going to let her leave.

Continue....!

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