The city’s heat was different today—heavier, more sensual, clinging to the skin like a second layer. Rudra had been quiet all morning, a restless energy simmering beneath his usual brooding control. His eyes kept drifting to Riya as she moved naked around the apartment, cleaning, the simple domesticity of her body a constant, maddening provocation.

“Aaj bahar chalenge,” he announced abruptly, putting down his chai. We’re going out today.