Thursday 9 April 2015

KHUMAARI- The Nocturnal Beast, PART 13

KHUMAARI

The Nocturnal Beast



Part 13
Greetings





You only fathomed the importance of home when you were away from it. The familiarity, sense of security, predictability and having your loved ones close for whom you craved were bliss. If heaven was anywhere on earth it was at one’s home.

Treading through the dark corridor, Maan was happy that he was back. He had started to feel home sick staying away from his Den n people for about twenty days. To Weres home was something like sea for a saltwater fish. Compulsory for survival. If not for his mate he would have come back earlier.
God, his feisty, fierce, sexy n utterly stupid mate. His human mate.
Not everyone was going to like and welcome her with balloons n cake in hands, but what was he for. He pledged to rip the throats of anyone who as much as glanced at her with wrong intensions. A feral growl reverberated in the confines of his chest. When his own people became his enemy he didn’t know. Geet was his priority n he couldn’t control the instincts that lead him to his doom. Death or destruction there was just one mission of his damn life now. Yes, he would keep her safe; guard her with his life and honor.
Maan was all animalistic instincts when it came to his mate.
Damn, why his cousin was asleep? Well, probably because it was past 12. He had intended to tell him of his n Geet’s arrival. After Maan’s parents, his cousin was the most responsible person under the roof. He cleaned everyone’s shit, kicked asses if need arouse. In order to pull the shields up, informing Parth was a must. Although, when he had reached Parth’s bedroom, the door had been closed, strong mating scent shimmering and filling the entire place. They certainly had slept after being very busy. Maan didn’t disturb them.
Marching into his own quarters Maan scanned the bedroom. Guess what did he get there? No Geet.
There was no need to wear slippers. Geet concluded. Floor beneath her feet wasn’t ice cold. Whole corridor was carpeted. The walls had same black pattern as that of the foyer's. While wandering in the series of hallways she had no idea how much time it had been since she left her-er-Maan’s room. The mansion was just build in such an artistic way that she was wonderstruck, fascinated by the grandeur. The pillars had same designs as the main door of mansion had. Geet was sure now that it wasn’t just meaningless designs but some language or signs. The thing was everywhere. Even the bedposts had same carvings; it was both mysterious n captivating. At intervals hung sparkling chandeliers from the arched roof of the passage, some were lit illuminating the corridors with dim glow n some corridors were completely dark.
Geet was following the lit ones.
Something strange echoed along her path. She went closer to the sound n figured out that it were just footsteps booming in the long hallways. Someone was coming around the corner. Feeling kind of creepy, she glued herself to the wall. Wait a second, why the hell was she hiding? Because I don’t know this place. Geet answered herself not able to shake that peculiar vision of Maan n that creature from her mind. They are one. The voice came from inside her n she shut it off.
While she stood with bated breath a big figure passed her. Geet released a sigh. She shouldn’t have though because the guy turned n his nostrils flared making her jump. Sniffing the air he growled angrily. In the little light casted from the last chandelier his face was a shadow of sharp features but she wasn’t concentrating on that. Her eyes were stuck on those animal-like teeth n pointed fangs that revealed between his pulled back lips. The guy leaned forward, snarling nastily; eyes glowing.
She shuddered wondering if he could hear her heart beating violently. Gust of a sturdy wind touched her so prominent that her hairs slapped over face. Then weight dropped over her waist. Jerking she looked to see Maan standing at her side. He pulled her closer n snarled back at the person in front. Eyes of both men met, some silent message exchanged. Unknown guy straightened, his shoulders eased and what she hadn’t expected happened. He bowed his head either in submission or respect. Before she could even move on her own Maan escorted her back.
Geet glanced back only to find the spot where the guy was standing blank. Why she wasn’t surprised. Who was that?
My brother, Garv.
Both brothers are so similar, unpredictable and scary.
Didn’t I ask you to sleep? His tone was flat but voice dripped with anger. The emotion unleashed just as they reached bedroom.
Why did you go out?
I was thirsty.
She bit her tongue when Maan looked at the jug placed on table right beside the bed. I didn’t see it.
You are lying. He pointed out not too gently.
You said it was my home. How can it be when I am not even free to move? I will feel…
Her words lost track as Maan took her in an embrace n nuzzled her neck, moaning softly. Her toes curled.
It’s your home. He was glad that she called it so while Geet had said it just for an escape. You can do whatever you want. But for a little while we have to be careful, sugar. His long fingers combed through her hairs. I don’t want you to get hurt.
Words were such a simple thing but made you feel so special.

Geet looked away. I… I am sleepy.
Yes, you should be. Maan took it very seriously. He practically laid her down like a kid n covered her form with a duvet. 

What has happened to him? Geet closed her eyes n heard a door shutting perhaps of the bathroom because Maan wasn’t going to leave her alone again. Somehow she knew this n sickly felt safe. Mind loosing focus, Geet vaguely realized she was sleepier than she had assumed.
In the fluffy comfort, Geet woke up with a moan to the chirruping of birds. Before opening her eyes she was fully aware where she was. There was no disorienting worry in her mind. She was absolutely aware n assured. Tracing the thick beam of sunlight that entered from the big window she noticed the room was more exquisite in natural glow. It was airy n…. it smelled of him.
Just like his thought in her mind, Maan entered the room, dressed in casual shirt n torn jeans. Did you sleep well? He asked sitting at the edge of bed n threading his fingers in her hairs like he had been doing the night before.
He was worried. Something’s on your face.
Furrowing his brows Maan checked in the mirror and asked. What?
Concern. Worry. The expressions don’t suit you.
It would pass.
Geet started to sit up but Maan pinned her to bed, his mouth descending upon hers. She gasped at the sudden assault on her lips. Those persistent, demanding lips stole her breath. His wide chest pressed her down and she could do nothing but cushion him with her breasts. With pressure on where their mouths were connected Maan titled her face up, kissing thoroughly n then sealing it with one final delicious lick on her petals. Burying his face in her neck and after kissing his claim there, he leaned back.
Mark the date, sugar. From now on your days would start like this only. Maybe more intimate but never less. He straightened to his full height not before giving her breast a shameless squeeze. I am feeling good now. I will be back- Skillfully ducking the pillow thrown at him by his very angry mate, Maan laughed. He opened the door to go out n instructed. Get ready. This day is going to be very long.
Geet looked at herself in the same mirror where Maan had scanned his perfect appearance. Unlike him she was a total mess. Hair tangled, clothes ruffled n lips swollen. Not to forget the little cut at the side of her lower lip. He was an animal. Animal who kissed like a pro. The way he pinned her down-
Stop it, Geet. Last thing he deserves are your compliments. Arrogant, moron.
You can come in. Geet said to whomever that had knocked the door.
We have brought provisions for you, Madam. Two maids carried food n clothes. If you need for anything, call us.
They bowed n left while Geet rolled her eyes because they disappeared before she could ask any question. Hello! Where was she going to find them if she needed anything?
Clothes consisted of a sundress n matching cardigan. Geet didn’t wear dresses, not normally, though this one could be an exception because the yellow sundress was really cute. She wasn’t that hungry so first she took a bath. After coming back into the room she was surprised to see make up on the dressing table but used it nonetheless. She put gloss on her lips n kohl in eyes. Maan came in then and watched her silently the whole time as she filled her mouth with French toast and muffins. Emptying the entire glass of juice in one gulp, Geet fixed a glare at Maan.
It’s rude to stare. She told consciously. He was probably in coma after seeing her in proper clothes n make up.
Everyone knows…. He started. That you are here.
Geet stood up. Is that a bad thing?
Convenient… for us. The faster this is done the better for them.
What done? For whom?
Come on we have to go somewhere.
Wait. I need adhesive tape. She asked picking up the gifted dream catcher.
It could be done later.
No, I said I would stick it in the morning. She climbed the bed. Promise is promise.




It would do temporarily. Geet grinned standing beside Maan. The dream catcher stuck proudly against the wall above the bed’s headboard.
Maan took her to some other part of the mansion. They walked in complete silence n a dread roomed in her gut. On approaching giant double doors, they stopped. Regardless to the eyes of the man who was apparently guarding whatever was behind those doors, Maan hugged his mate rubbing his body against hers n face in the crook of her neck. Funny thing was she didn’t notice the guard until Maan stepped back.
Flushed Geet looked down n Maan raised her face so his orbs bore deeps in her hazels. Wait here. I would try my best so you are not included. He went inside n in the few moments the door opened, Geet saw people sitting around a long table. Some kind of meeting was going on inside. Geet sat on the wooden seat beside the closed doors n wondered what the hell was happening.
No amount of foot tapping or nail biting helped relieving her nerves. It seemed time had stopped since Maan left her. Muffled voice escaped the walls but nothing was clear. Guard at the door was big yet not scary. Geet started to cough then stared at the guard with puppy dog eyes. My throat is dry; can you please bring me something to drink? She didn't have to worry about the lie being smelled because she was indeed thirsty.
For everything Geet knew the guard looked positively honored. She felt bad. Just for a moment then it was gone. They were most likely talking about her inside. She had all the right to know what was cooking.
Of… course, my lady.
As the guard scurried out of sight, Geet planted her palms n ear on the door.
We all know the impossibility that lies here. A female was speaking her voice calm as resting water.
It was a male that agreed. The soul of a wolf never chooses who are lesser. Our sacred blood cannot go into a human vein. This is as illicit as unacceptable.
Rumbles of agreement echoed.
The choice has been made. Whoever had spoken killed others' words.My son has found his mate. Each one of us is aware that preference in given instance is not our personal decision neither it is reversible.
Do you suggest we accept it? Someone bellowed. A filthy human in royalty, that too with the impending alpha? Do you even consider the upshot of this imprudence? She would be the alpha female. A human leading-
My clan. Maan’s father voiced again. It would be silly of you to think I haven’t measured the notion.
Then how can you favor?
Because the stars wrote her in Maan’s fate. Whatever-
So fucking lame. A new bored voice said, so sinister it chilled her to the bone. Stars n moon n the fucking sky. Preordains doesn’t happen anymore.
Pardon me the interruption, Trivam. On what grounds a clan stand high is the alpha’s concern. Your view reflects in your clan’s belief. Perhaps you have come far on clock but time runs in circle. One concludes where they start. Not you but many here put their faith in what our kind regard as holy n beseech. The moon n stars determine the course of our lives n also our mates. Preordains doesn’t happen anymore because of the conditions we now have evolved to live in. It is not impossible though. My father’s mating was preordained n so was my only brother’s. We accept the decision of our deity with reverence.
There were grunts of approvals. At least they all accorded at one point.
It could be a mistake. One male said. I intend no harm but Maan could have misinterpreted. How could a Were find his mate in human. Nature has rules not to be broken, not even by its own hands.
Precisely, I would give my agreement too. Regardless of the arguments in favor of that human girl, the inter-race association is deplorable. This couldn’t happen.
Everyone gave their consent in one voice.
She couldn’t sit n hold alpha female throne.
More grunts of consent.
And she knows too much.
So she couldn’t go back. We have to get rid of her.
Geet stilled outside the door.
She is a threat. Humans cannot be trusted.
A thump boomed as Maan slapped his hands on the table. He growled. Fuck you all. Not a word more against my mate. His voice was so hard n wild, Geet almost didn’t recognize it. I will dig your graves with my bare hands.
Another growl was heard.
Silence. Maan’s father commanded. Maan, SIT DOWN.
Maan snarled. Geet imagined him gritting his teeth n glaring with bloodshot eyes while sitting back down.
With due regards to all your royal linage, I would like to remind you that we have invited you to inform n share the joy of my son finding his suited and preordained mate and not to take your permission on the alliance. It’s going to happen no matter the views n consequences.
We- Silence stretched coating the air with dread. Someone’s listening.
Geet actually didn’t hear anything after the words that suggested her killing. Therefore, when the door opened she was unprepared. Several pair of eyes bore into her. She saw the harshness in them. The aristocratic faces were stone-sharp n similarly cold. Fear consumed her, drowning her deep.
They could smell it. Their eyes burned.
Geet met a pair of ghastly grey eyes; there was so much hate in them that her vision blurred.
She didn’t wait before running off.
Adrenaline was rushing even when it was all so useless. Futile… she couldn’t go anywhere. No hole would open up for her like it happened with Alice. She was already in another, unbelievable world, not of talking rabbits but humans that were wolves.
Maan’s eyes swam across her brain n then the wolf’s she had encountered not only in dream but… in reality, so familiar. Words of people inside the room echoed around her, sounds coming from everywhere. 

They would kill her. This was her end. 

That dream which she had repeatedly was her peek in future, an indication of her doom. She did meet a wolf. She met Maan. Here she was lost in infinite jungle of impossibility and, here only, she would take her last breath. Killed by the beings that didn’t exist out of folklore n nobody would ever know where she had gone.
Always in denial. She was always in denial, when he came to take her in her apartment, when she found herself on the island… when he told who he was.
Science n logic was what she believed in. This was… madness. Yet, true. Deep down didn’t she know this all along?
Taking a flight of stairs, she burst into the open air. Open air that constricted her lungs. Her legs ran across the lawn n tears down her cheek. Geet was hysterical. She didn’t want to-
Someone held her hand in a rough hold. She halted with a jerk. Was he the one assigned to finish the task? Finish her?
Where are you going, girl? Big n ruthless, he was right person to- Geet flinched at the thought, her voice betrayed her. She tried to get free when her heart believed in no impending salvation. The man’s hold tightened on her wrist, pressing her veins, blocking the flow of blood then straining over her bones.
Just leave me. Geet screamed n suddenly her hand was free.
Blinking the tears back, she was astonished to see the man down, lying on green grass his nose bleeding.
How dare you? A feral growl resounded from beside her which shook the man just knocked on his back. Her savior was again Maan n his whole form was on fire. Panting he looked hungry for blood. The guy from last night came and blocked Maan’s path when he seemed to go again for the-now ashamed-man. When Geet noticed the gun tucked in holster around the waist of that man, she became horrified. Although, the man looked positively submissive, a gun in reach of hands could never be trusted.
Maan, he didn’t know. Maan’s brother said, his hands pushing at Maan shoulders, who was like a bull going for red.
Maan snarled then directed his eyes on Geet. They immediately softened, anger replaced with intense concern.
Are you hurt? He asked n did the unthinkable. Holding tenderly, he licked all around her wrist.
Around them several people stood. Previously they were always alone, isolated on the island. Abruptly people surrounded them but Maan wasn’t bothered in the least. Certainly he didn’t care for other, he cared for her.
You are not alone. The voice cooed inside with warmth blanketing her form.
Maan pulled her closer, nearly hiding her in himself.
I leave you because of the reason you bear for the deed. Maan’s cruel voice left no trace for doubt. Another fuck up with MY MATE would be on the risk of your life. I’ll not blink before ending it.
Darkness brought dirty thoughts in his mind irrespective of how idiotic he felt, all mushy n anxious, his heartbeats were fast enough to match the subsiding shivers that rocked her body. She lay on his lap with her legs drawn close on one side and head resting on his shoulders.
He had brought her to one of the guest rooms on the ground floor simply because he didn’t had the patience to go upstairs. He didn’t even bother with lights or curtains, just held her to him. Beast in him was on rampage replaying the scene of another male holding his mate’s hand brutally with intensions that were more than cruel. The epsilon, head of protector troop, was terrifying yet a good Were. But he had a problem with humans. No such excuse, though, could justify his attack on Geet.
Maan wondered if keeping her close was to calm her or his own soul.
The anxiety brought with the threat on her well being was one thing; her delicious body sprawled over him another.
Your heart beats weirdly. Her voice was so soft, just a mere whisper but it sent jolts down his spine.
Werewolves’ heart beats faster that’s why our blood is hotter.
Even our heart beats our not same.
But we both breathe to live.
The shake of her head ruffled his shirt. You will live longer.
And you with me. Once we mate you will have my blood mixed in yours, it will replenish your vitals. You will live as long as I will.
Geet closed her eyes. You can leave me now.
No. At his straight denial she snuggled closer, Maan nearly moaned. I am not holding you just for the sake of it.
It feels good. Nobody held me like this after my mother. That was… long time ago.
You are not alone. Just like voice inside her had said, Geet thought. Not anymore. You shouldn’t have eavesdropped.
At least I know what’s coming.
Nothing is coming. What those people think has no relevance to us. Those were not of our clan.
Who were they then?
There are few more clans in country; inside the room were Alphas or royals of those clans. The Alphas n selected royals form the Lycan union. I always knew that the union won’t accept this alliance, it’s no surprise.
Geet raised her head to stare at his face. Do you mean that your clan people would have no problem with us?
I didn’t say that.
Was the person who held me belonged to your clan?
Yes. He is the head of protector troop. He hates humans. They had hunted his teenage daughter. She had gone for a run n was found dead the next morning stuck in Conibear trap set by animal hunters.
Oh god.
Do you think I would leave him for a lesser reason?
I won’t blame him if he came for me again.
He wouldn’t. Vidhut certainly didn’t know who you were. Maan wiped her eyes of the remaining tears. Her heart beat evenly now but he was blistering under her.
What if your clan members didn’t accept me? Geet thought aloud. You could always leave me home. She told even though her chest clenched at the idea of leaving Maan. When she grew so fond of him? Maybe when he saved her in the swamp, or when he kissed her so intensely, or it could be that his fierce protectiveness had crawled under her skin. And, it was all after her knowing n fully realizing who n what he was, a beast… in the most practical sense. She would be a fool to not believe it anymore.
There is no you. It’s us. If they couldn’t accept you, damn them, we would leave.
His voice was free of regret, expectation or longing. It was promising and in strange way assuring. Geet couldn’t help but admire this man whom she had hated, attempted to kill n escape from, the man-Were-that abducted her, made her leave the home she had grown up in.
Geet pushed her lips for the first time against his jaw. The blatant surprise in his eyes gave her confidence. She dragged her lips to his mouth. Maan’s eyes grew wider. His whole body hummed which made pleasure surge across her body.
Maan had never known a kiss could be so soft n yet to enthralling. A gift of her free will. Every kiss with her was a new experience.
Strong hands cupped her bottom as Maan pulled her more to him. Their kiss deepened in no time, his beast taking over. Adjusting his hips under her he grew hard.
Unknown to the tornado of desire burning him, Geet slapped his hand that was progressing over her thigh below the dress. She pulled apart, panting n flushed, her lips slick with his kiss. He could have eaten her alive then. Maan tried to grab for her again.
Suusshhh… She admonished. Don’t take advantage of my goodness. That was just to thank you.
Thank me again, I will work for it later. He purred seductively.
Maan… Behave. She stood up n glared at him.
At her commanding tone Maan’s wolf wagged its tail, tongue sticking out. Maan was incredulous at the extent of control this girl had on the beast.
Mate. It said playfully trying to be a good wolf.
Now get up.
Don’t order me, girl. Maan snapped somewhere scared by the abnormal, love-sick behavior of his usually feral other half. He stood up anyways n cleared his throat. Why are you staring at me?
You are behaving weird.
No I am not. Maan defended. Now cut the crap n follow me. I want you to meet my family.
Suddenly nervous again, Geet said. I don’t think they would be very pleased to see me.
Looping his arm around her waist Maan nuzzled her neck then trailed sizzling kisses along her jaw. Don’t be so sure. They would love you, sooner or later.

The grand hall looked exquisite in the board daylight. Whole mansion was constructed in such a way that during daytime ample sunlight filled it with warmth n buttery radiance n there was no need of artificial lights.
Geet looked up as a man descended the stairs. He was dressed in a crisp suit n Geet recognized him from that meeting. The man had been sitting at the head of table with a woman at his side. No introductions were needed, she knew who he was.
Feeling small under the critical gaze, Geet dared to meet the man’s eyes. He was large, appearing to be in his early forties but was not obviously so. The intimidating thing was the aura that surrounded him. He commanded adherence without a word. A king without crown. If all people ducked their head wherever he walked Geet wouldn’t be astounded.
Geet gulped not knowing if she hated or liked the way Maan was holding her to him. Her body was practically glued to him. It was more embarrassing. Although obviously, it wouldn’t seem nice if she smacked Maan’s head in front his father.
Mate of my son. Maan’s father pronounced. Being the Alpha, I welcome you to the Eastern clan n our Den.
Maan stayed silent n still as if forwarding her for an assessment. Is this a test? Geet wondered.
Ah, thanks.
Where are you from?
Aenofl, it’s a town-
I know. And your lineage?
Rudra… Geet turned to see the woman who had previously been sitting in meeting with Maan’s father. Don’t scare the poor soul. She is new.
She hugged a startled Geet, and then walked to her mate who pulled her close in very much similar manner as Maan was holding Geet and kissed her on the mouth.
Geet had no idea what she thought about this Public Display of Affection. Maan was standing as if this was usual business.
This is Rudra n I am Jhanvi. We are Maan’s parents.
Hello. I am-
Geet. Oh I know dear. She said merrily. Maan had told me about you a few months after you both had met in Bangalore two years ago. He can’t hide anything from me. I am so happy that he has finally found his mate.
You knew since two years and didn’t tell me. Rudra asked unbelievably.
Jhanvi smiled. I would say- lunch is ready.
Did someone say lunch? Said a guy coming into the room, followed by the one Geet had seen last night then again when he was stopping Maan from attacking the guard.
Geet was escorted to the dining room. Where Jhanvi n Robe served large amount of food on the table.
A beautiful couple came in their hands entwined together. And also Maan’s friend n kidnapping partner joined them. He grinned at Geet n introductions were exchanged. The two deadly handsome guys were Maan’s brothers, Garv n Avinaye, and the deeply in love couple was Maan’s cousin n his wife, Parth n Niyati.
It’s so bizarre having a human in Den. Avinaye said wolfing down the food from his plate.
Garv slapped his head. Don’t be rude and don’t talk while eating.
We’ll have a celebration tonight. Niyati said. Everyone would be dying to meet Geet.
A celebration for me?
Of course dear. Maan’s mother spoke.
You have no idea what you have stepped into. Parth joked n everyone laughed.
The three brothers got busy in some football discussion, Maan’s father n cousin were talking about business while his mother n Niyati were mulling over the menu for night’s grand dinner. Geet was trying to digest it all. She had just stepped into their lives out of nowhere, and they weren’t pushing her away rather throwing a celebration.
A celebration is not required. Geet said feeling bad for forcing these people into accepting her. I don’t even fit.
The voices seized and it was Maan’s mother who spoke. A mate is everything for a Were. Who fits and who doesn’t is not our pick. You are Maan’s life, so you are family.
Oh. She said stupidly feeling heavy with emotions. Just a small ‘aao’ took to unleash her tears. She looked back to see Cotton standing in the doorway. First she couldn’t believe her eyes n ears then as Cotton bounded towards her she jumped out of her seat to catch him in her arms.
I took care of him while you were not here. Geet heard Niyati say in background.
You brought the pup? Maan growled.
Adi shrugged. I couldn’t leave him while I was bringing her things. I brought him along.
My baby. Geet whispered hugging Cotton to her chest while he licked her face with its little tongue.





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Author's Blabber:

Sorry got late again. Xams are going on naOuch Anyways I hope u liked Maan's family... there's more coming upBig smile.




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