Abir's deep, suffocating kiss had left Arisa in a trance-like state. She sat frozen on the edge of the bed, feeling the weight of the diamond choker around her neck. To the world, it was a piece of luxury, but to her, it was a collar of servitude. Abir stood up with the regal grace of a conqueror. His messy hair and muscular frame made him look like a fallen god, but his eyes held the predatory glint of a wolf watching its prey.
He walked toward the wardrobe and pulled out an exquisite deep-blue Banarasi silk saree, the edges adorned with precious stones. He tossed it onto Arisa's lap without a word.
"Get ready," Abir said, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous frequency. "We are attending an elite business dinner tonight. I won't have anyone looking down on my companion. Remember, my reputation is in your hands tonight."
"Why are you dragging me into your world?" Arisa whispered, staring at the silk fabric. "You know I don't belong among people like you."
Abir stepped closer, his large hands gripping her shoulders firmly. The heat of his touch sent a wave of forbidden electricity through her, making her heart race against her will.
"You're asking too many questions, Arisa," Abir murmured, leaning down until his breath fanned against her ear. "I'm taking you because I want the world to know that Arisa belongs solely to Abir Khan. If you try to run, or even signal for help, remember my warning—the sun won't rise for that ex-boyfriend of yours. Don't force me to paint my hands with his blood."
Tears welled up in Arisa's eyes, but she swallowed her pride. She knew Abir was a man of his word—a dangerous, ruthless word. She dressed in the blue saree, but as she looked at her reflection, she barely recognized herself. The kohl under her eyes and the dark red lipstick made her look like a hauntingly beautiful captive.
Downstairs, Abir was waiting by his sleek black Lamborghini. Neither of them spoke during the drive. Despite the car's freezing air conditioning, sweat beads formed on Arisa's forehead. They arrived at the city's most expensive rooftop restaurant, a place filled with billionaires and influential figures.
Abir stepped out and came around to her side. He grabbed her hand with a crushing grip, as if she were a precious trophy he refused to let go. As they walked in, a heavy silence fell over the room followed by intense whispering. Everyone was curious about the mysterious beauty beside the cold-hearted tycoon.
Suddenly, Arisa's heart skipped a beat. In the corner of the restaurant, she spotted a familiar face—Rafi, her old college friend. Rafi had always cared for her. A spark of hope flickered in her chest. Was this her last chance to escape? Or was Abir watching her every move, waiting for her to make a mistake that would ruin everything?
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