~THE LUSCIOUS AFFECTION~

~pratyush~

As we walked deeper into the forest, Gunjan said, "Guys, follow me." She led the way with confidence, her slender figure cutting through the dense trees. I followed behind, surrounded by our team of bodyguards, my eyes fixed on Gunjan's brave form. She was like a shield, protecting us from the unknown dangers lurking in the shadows.

My heart filled with admiration for this fearless and selfless woman. I had to push aside my feelings, reminding myself that this wasn't the time or place. The forest was filled with the sounds of animals calling out, but Gunjan kept moving forward, undaunted. Her determination lit the way, guiding us through the dark forest.

We were making good progress, the forest floor a soft crunch beneath our feet, when suddenly Gunjan's head snapped up. She froze, her eyes wide with fear. Before I could ask what was wrong, she flung herself at me, wrapping her legs tightly around my waist. I was taken aback, but I instinctively held her close, trying to comfort her.

"What's wrong, Gunjan ma'am?" I asked softly, trying to keep my voice calm.

She buried her face in my shoulder, her voice barely above a whisper. "Pratyush, please save me..." Her words trembled, and I could feel her heart racing against mine.

I tried to reassure her, but before I could ask any questions, she suddenly realized she was in my arms and sprang back, her face a deep crimson. She was whispering slowly "I'm not afraid! I'm not afraid!".

But before I could tease her about being scared, I spotted a tiny mouse scurrying towards a nearby tree. "It's just a mouse, nothing dangerous," I said with a chuckle. "No need to be afraid."

But to my surprise, she flung herself at me again, this time demanding, "Pratyush, give me my phone, now!" I handed it over, and she promptly started playing a loud Ganpati Bappa song.

I couldn't help but burst out laughing at the absurdity of the situation. But as I glanced around, I noticed that everyone else was stifling their giggles, their faces hidden behind their hands. I was the only one laughing out loud.

That's when I sensed a shift in the atmosphere. I looked around, and my eyes met the pitying stares of our team. But it was Gunjan's gaze that made my heart skip a beat. Her eyes, usually bright and sparkling, had turned icy cold, her stare piercing through me like a dagger. The laughter died on my lips as I felt a shiver run down my spine.

Gunjan's face, usually a radiant picture of confidence, now wore a fierce scowl. "Now, it's your punishment to take me ahead like this!" she declared, her voice firm but her eyes sparkling with a hint of playfulness.

I bit back a smile, thinking to myself, What kind of punishment is this? I'd gladly accept this penalty for the rest of my life. I secretly savored the moment, feeling grateful to see this vulnerable side of Gunjan.

For the first time, I saw beyond her brave exterior to the softness beneath. It was a side that hinted she might need someone to protect her, to care for her. And in that moment, I felt honored to be that someone.

As we moved forward, Gunjan's gaze remained fixed ahead, her expression serious once more. But I knew what I had glimpsed, and it only deepened my connection to her.

As we arrived at the location, Gunjan sprang down from my arms, her expression transforming from playful to professional in an instant. We fell into a heightened state of alertness, our guns at the ready. Every sense was on high alert, our eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of danger.

With a shared sense of caution, we moved forward, our movements deliberate and calculated. The earlier levity was forgotten, replaced by a steely resolve to stay vigilant. We couldn't afford to let our guards down, not even for a moment.