11-12-2025, 09:06 PM
Chapter 11: Arjun Watches, Vikram Woos Pooja [18+]
Vikram settled onto the cushion beside Pooja, his decision firm—to test Arjun's reaction. Pooja glanced at him, her eyes heavy with doubt. He leaned in, his voice soft but deliberate. "You need this," he said, patting his shoulder. "This arm—you need this. Catch it, cry on it, let it go. When we go back, I want to see a Pooja with a clear conscience, nothing affecting her. We always need someone to cry for, to lean on—an emotional baggage carrier. I'll be one tonight. Lean on me, shed all the tears. You're affecting yourself too much." Pooja hesitated, her hands trembling, but Vikram gently pulled her, guiding her head to rest on his shoulder, her hands gripping his arms. In that moment, she needed someone—and Vikram was there.
Minutes passed, and Vikram felt the dampness seeping through his shirt sleeve as Pooja cried uncontrollably. "Cry as much as you want," he murmured, his tone soothing yet calculating. He shifted, raising his arm to dbang it around her shoulder, and her body collided freely against his, her head nestled into him.
Arjun, hidden in the shadows, fumed, his fists clenching. I can't let this go further—but I wanted Vikram to take her. How can I watch this, even if it's just consoling? His conflict tore at him, a mix of rage and the bitter taste of his own plan.
Vikram smirked as Pooja's tears soaked his shoulder, pleased by Arjun's silence. He's locked on something—this is my chance. I should use it, split them for real, not just for sex, he thought. Leaning closer, he whispered, "Pooja, speak your heart out. Don't store anything in your head and hurt yourself. Open to me, please. Trust me—even if I can't find a solution, you'll feel light after speaking out."
Pooja, still resting on his shoulder, fell silent for a minute before her voice broke through. "Vikram, please speak openly. Honestly, keep your good-man image aside and tell me what you honestly feel about Arjun's recent change, his lie, his unusual phone calls, that Anjali."
Vikram paused, weighing his words carefully. He wanted to inject doubt without triggering Arjun to emerge and defend himself. "I don't know, Pooja. My head reasons a lot of things, but only you have the answer for it," he said, playing safe.
Pooja pressed, "Just be honest—is he cheating?" Vikram hesitated, then replied, "It can be anything, Pooja. It could be just business, or it may be cheating as you fear, but the cheating part—I don't think so. But it's true he lied to you. He could have said, 'I went to meet them so and so,' as you said, but he didn't. That's what raises my doubt to a big level. And that Anjali—she seems to be hiding a lot behind." Pooja's eyes widened. "You confronted Anjali directly, right?" Vikram nodded. "Yes."
"What if she alerts Arjun and he slams you?" Pooja asked, worry creasing her brow. "What if the real reason is just business—will he think me bad for doubting?" Vikram's voice was steady. "If that case arises, I'll take the blame for you. If he wants me to go, I will. If he asks how I got the number, pretend you don't know. If he doesn't cheat and he's good, reason with him that I loved you one-sided, in an attempt to cause a rift, I used a way to destroy the relation. So I found the number, reached Anjali, and you had no part in it." Pooja looked up at him, lightly slapping his face. "Fuck your sacrifices—be real. I won't leave you in trouble. Let me agree and pacify if he doesn't cheat." Vikram smiled faintly. "I'm telling you the truth."
Pooja exhaled deeply, then asked, "I'm just clearing my head, linking things—his distancing recently, these lies, Anjali. Am I overthinking?" Vikram saw his opening. "Pooja, listen, the answer lies with you two, and especially within you. Let me tell you a story." He crafted it carefully, unaware that Arjun's recent rejection of Pooja's advances stemmed from a headache, not disinterest. "Some loves are everlasting, rare, exceptional—they give back, support, hold together, never fading. Some are momentary, staying a while then fading. Especially after marriage, it's normal—partners grow lethargic, avoiding attention. Earlier, they act fast, do silly things to race ahead of competitors eyeing their partner, impress them, get married. Once achieved, they don't need to please the other, so affection slows.
My friend loved a woman—didn't know why at first. Later, he realized it was for beauty and sex. Before marriage, they had sex; the heat stayed until then, but now it's lost. He overused it, his wishes fulfilled, no longer wanting her in bed. This frustrated her, leading to divorce, while he continued outside."
Pooja's mind reeled, Arjun's admission of a competitive proposal and his avoidance of intimacy flooding back. Doubt intensified within her. Vikram continued, "Problems may come and go between coupls its actually incompatible post marriage, but sex is one part that ensures they're treating us good. Differences fade in bed; if not, it's a sign they're moving away."
Pooja's tears fell uncontrollably, Vikram's injection succeeding. "I don't want to ask how your sex life is," he added. "You don't need to share personal details—just analyze yourself, as someone who loves you truly is telling this, so you can spot, analyze, and fix it." Seeing her tears, he wiped one away, catching her face. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry—did I touch the wrong thing? I'm sorry." Pooja sobbed, "No, it matches Arjun's doing... what?" Vikram asked, alarmed. She cried again, and he turned her side, pulling her into a tight embrace. Her body pressed against his, the heat unimaginable,
Arjun's pulse racing. She's so close to him—how can I bear this? Arjun thought, torn between stopping them and his own plan.
Vikram said, "Pooja, I'm here for you. Let's fix this—I promise you, I'll beat him and get you back." She cried for a few more minutes, slowing down, and Vikram decided on another move. He raised her face gently, kissing her forehead. "YOU CAN TRUST ME. I'm here for you—just control yourself, let's plan." He said, "Get up," but Pooja remained in the embrace.
To lighten the mood, he teased, "Pooja, you once said you hate when I touch you—now you're fully hugging me." A smile crept up on her face; she mockingly beat his arms.
Vikram grinned, "Welcome back, my queen."
Pooja laughed, "You idiot..." She added, "That was when you half-bakedly said you love me. Today, it's different—I realize your true intent for me, and I respect your love, though I cannot reciprocate.
You said I can always lean on you and count on you when trouble arises—I just did that."
Vikram nodded. "Good. I don't want to bring the topic again—I understand why you cried now."
Pooja said, "I'll tell you openly. Arjun admitted sometimes back, when I said about you loving me, he said he was like in a competition and hence quickly proposed, marrying me. He even said he doesn't want kids as it would spoil our youth, and for the second year now, I've used pills. But recent days, his distance is hurting, and Vikram..." She struggled to continue. "Go on," he urged. "Keep it with yourself—it's months since Arjun touched me, and now Anjali—I sense something is completely wrong." She caught his hand. "Please don't take advantage of me. If you truly love me, just get me the truth. I fear confronting him, I fear the truth—if it's all good hearing from him is fine, if it's all wrong, I cannot face it."
Vikram listened silently, his hand catching hers again in assurance. "I want more details—when was the time you felt it went odd, like slow distance, no love kind of stuff?" Pooja said, "It's right after the startup plan." Vikram thought, his genuineness briefly winning over his demon side, and asked, "There must be at least some moments that bring back his old self—what was that?" Pooja said, "He was always business, debt, running errands, etc. Suddenly, she added, off late, only at two instances I saw old Arjun. When I said he that you loved me, his advice, his care, his thoughtfulness was like old Arjun.
There's a contrast in how he behaved a week back—in this same guesthouse, he was drunk—you remember, Vikram?" Vikram nodded. "The second time was after you returned. I was telling Arjun I was complaining to Vikram about his distance; instantly he said, 'Why don't I treat him as a friend first?' Also, he was the only one who said you are a womanizer after your return. I guess he's jealous about you being close with me. What I understand, he gets jealous when I say about you or something like that. He even wanted to settle back all your help; he seems to run for it. I don't know—I'm confused by his way of behavior."
Vikram laughed. "You should see it this way: whenever I was a subject of topic, according to Arjun, I'm his love rival, so he's offended and tries to project himself first, like he's your sole savior, the only person to rely on basically a hero... That's a good sign he's not giving up on you. Even if he's cheating with Anjali—I'm telling just a worst case—him not letting you go to a friend even for conversation is a sign that he still has it for you. You can win him back anytime (I'm just saying in that case, I'm not telling he is cheating now—we are just imagining this isn't real)." Vikram calculated something, aware Arjun was hiding, and decided to up the game with sharp manipulation, the price being Pooja's body. "Okay, it's too late, Pooja—let's go ahead," he said. She replied, "Okay, thank you, Vikram, I feel light today. Okay, see, don't ask anything to Arjun—it might hurt him. We can slowly analyze and fix things, continue to shower your love, just hope he will retreat back soon. We can face the issue if Arjun asks us—I didn't reveal my name to Anjali, so she couldn't have an idea who asked about Arjun. So I hope she may not have alarmed Arjun. Even so, who will she name?" Pooja said, "Okay, I won't ask anything—let's watch him."
As Pooja and Vikram left the spot, Arjun slowly emerged, thankful the spare key was in his pants. He unlocked the door after hearing the engine start and stepped out. Vikram, driving the Thar with Pooja, stopped at a point outside on the road near a tree, where he could watch the guesthouse. He faked a car issue, opened the front bonnet, and pretended to fix it while his eyes fixed on the gate. Five minutes later, he saw a figure approach the road as a car arrived—it was Arjun. Vikram confirmed it, and before Arjun could see him, he closed the bonnet, started the engine, and swiftly raced off.
On the way, his mind calculated furiously. Given the case, Arjun hides something. After so much happening now at the rooftop, it's clear that he's okay even if I kiss her or even more. I've asked Pooja not to confront on who Anjali is, so Pooja won't bring the topic, even about the office lie. If Arjun comes and explains or confronts, he'll get caught for hiding here, so in a way, no one will question no one. It's a clear path for me to manipulate. Pooja broke the silence. "Hey, Vikram, what happened? What are you thinking?" Vikram decided to unveil his game, something he didn't want Arjun to hear on the rooftop. "I'm thinking about you and Arjun," he said. Pooja asked, "What is it about?" Vikram replied, "It's the last part of what we spoke there." Pooja: "About his jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes, if jealousy is bringing him back and working, why not we try it?" Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "By us being closer, emotionally and subtly physically close." Pooja fell silent for a minute, then said, "You mean like in cinema drama, hero being closer with others to spark jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes. But it's different here." Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "There, the hero will be colliding with the heroine and they act—it's mutual. Here, it's different; only I will be initiating it." Pooja: "Why? Only you? I can support a bit too—maybe if he is doing too much, then let's put on an act." Vikram playfully hit her and said, "Idiot, if you do like it, he may think you bad, like a bitch." Pooja asked, "Then what should I do?" Vikram said, "Listen to my explanation. From what you said, I guess he fears his love rival—that's me, I might steal his girlfriend. Underline the word 'stealing'—that's why he came out and became old Arjun those times. If you did like you are consenting to it, he'll lose fire to protect you. Either he'll call you a bitch and go back to Anjali, or he'll think, 'Okay, Pooja got a person to satisfy her needs—I need to focus on Anjali.' In both ways, he will leave you.
The only way we can get back Arjun is by installing fear. Imagine, you are treating me as a friend always, a bit closer after his distance that even Arjun notices. Now, if he maintains the same and you stay in the same boundary, I'm coming and taking advantage of you. He'll see I'm crossing the line, which your eyes show discomfort—he will strike back to get you back."
Pooja: "Wow, you are a schemer."
Vikram: "I used many such schemes when I was going back to women."
Pooja: "Experience speaks."
Vikram looked at her and said, "I experienced bodies but never a love."
Pooja caught his hand and said, "You will one day—not me—someone who is really good to you." They smiled and looked at the road. Vikram struck back, "Let's start slowly—conversation, sitting closer in the same place, cooking together, slowly I touch you, I put my arms around you, we go shopping together.
There's your relatives' marriage right at Coimbatore—we've purchased for them—I'll join you guys. Let's slowly get his attention. For him, my every move is a step to seduce you; for us, my every move is to bring him back from Anjali." Vikram raised his palm and said, "Let's tease him, make him more jealous, let him suffer getting a taste of losing—the only way he can look back." Pooja kept her hand on his palm in acknowledgment of a promise or pledge.
With Pooja's support, the demon in Vikram surged. Let me cuckold you, Arjun—my revenge for taking my girl before I was about to propose, he said to himself.
They reached the house, and as Pooja was getting inside, Vikram pulled her back, causing her to trip. He grabbed her, his body a support for her to stand. Pooja asked, "What happened?" Vikram grinned, "I've begun practicing." A smile crept up on Pooja's face as she said playfully, "Be a friend as always—don't try to use your scheme on me," and went inside.
Chapter 12: Vikram's Seduction Starts, Aided by Pooja's Role [18+]
Continuation, 15 kms away
Arjun sat in the cab, the hum of the engine fading into the background as he drove home on night, The guesthouse lingered in his mind, replaying every word Pooja had shared with Vikram—her doubts, her tears, her loneliness. His hands tightened on the wheel as guilt crashed over him. What have I done? he thought. It's all my fault she's slipping toward Vikram. In the silence, he traced his mistakes, each a step he believed triggered her escalation.
First, he recalled, after the startup, I stopped taking her anywhere. I was buried in business, oblivious that my focus left her feeling lonely. Pooja would never have doubted my love if I'd just spent time with her. The memory stung—nights of meetings, no dates, no drives along ECR.
Second, his mind shifted to his depression over debts. I stayed detached from regular life, like a simple chat with her. All I talked about was 'Do you have extra money?' or 'Where can we get a loan?'—those are the only memories this year. I neglected her, and I didn't even see it would make her feel this way. Pooja would never have felt neglected or taken for granted if I'd been present.
Third, he winced at the recent headache that stopped their intimacy. I couldn't make love, but that doesn't mean I dislike her or that I've had enough. Yet, with Vikram's friend story, Pooja might've bought into the idea I married her just for beauty and sex. That's on me for not explaining.
Fourth, the moment he discovered his health issue flashed back. I should have called her right then. Pooja would never have left my side, not even a bit, if I'd trusted her with the truth.
Fifth, he remembered that day he went to pick her up. Instead of turmoil, I should have waited and picked her up myself. Giving a chance for Vikram to give a lift let him suddenly enter our life—this was my mistake.
Sixth, Vikram asking to stay hit him next. I should have said no when he asked for help to stay in our house. That would've reduced any minimal involvement of him further—I missed that chance.
Seventh, the confession moment replayed. When Vikram admitted he loved her, I should have kicked him out instead of that diplomatic talk with Pooja. She would've seen I love her the most and am possessive—I missed showing that.
Eighth, he regretted letting Vikram back. When Pooja wanted him around again, I should not have allowed it. She would never have stopped things that worried me if I'd set boundaries.
Ninth, the office lie gnawed at him. I shouldn't have said I was at the office. I could've said something else. Pooja would never have doubted my honesty, and she'd have kept a big distance from Vikram.
Tenth, the guesthouse night haunted him. I should have confronted Vikram the moment he came in with Pooja. She would've feared me, and Vikram would've stopped his manipulation.
Arjun's head throbbed as the cab neared home. It's not destiny or Vikram's love or schemes. Maybe he eyed Pooja or orchestrated things, but everything was done by my inaction. Vikram having a hand over her is due to me.
He wrestled with his next move. Should I let them go ahead, or should I be honest? I don't want Pooja to live alone, and I don't want to worry about my health. I just want to see her happy before I go. I should digest this a bit. But he wasn't fully decided—he leaned more toward stopping Vikram, a cat on the wall, torn between surrender and action.
The cab stopped, and he stumbled out, heading to a bar instead, drinking until the world blurred. Drunk, he staggered home, avoiding conversation as he collapsed on the couch.
Pooja and Vikram, already home, heard the door creak. Pooja rushed to find Arjun slumped, reeking of alcohol. "Arjun! You're drunk?" she gasped, her voice trembling. Vikram stepped forward, steadying Arjun. "Let's get him upstairs," he said, helping her move him to the bedroom.
As they laid him down, Vikram doubted Arjun's drunken state was a shield to avoid talk. "Don't worry, Pooja—he's just drunk," he reassured. "Arjun never drank like this," she murmured, confused.
In two years of marriage, he'd only pretended once before—the smell hadn't been this strong. Is he acting again, or is this real? she wondered, the odor overwhelming. Unable to sleep beside him, she retreated to the sofa downstairs.
Morning came at 6:30 AM , Pooja woke, stunned to find herself in Vikram's bedroom. Vikram entered with bed coffee, smiling. "Good morning!" he said cheerfully. "How did I land here?" she asked, alarmed. "You were so tired on the sofa, I lifted you here," he explained.
"Where were you sleeping, Vikram?" she pressed. "Right beside you," he grinned. "See, your nightgown's untouched apart from lifting you—those wrinkles are from you turning. I'm a pakka gentleman." He laughed, easing her tension. "What if Arjun saw me here?" she worried. "Calm down," Vikram soothed. "He's still out, full drunk. I locked his room from outside last night and just opened it—he's asleep. We're safe."
He leaned closer. "We should start our closeness right away." "How?" Pooja asked, hesitant. "Cooking," he suggested. "If I touch you directly, it'll feel odd, and everyone might think we're acting. Let's make it natural—slow progress. We're not challenging him today, got it?" Pooja nodded, unsure but trusting.
By 8:00 AM, Arjun stumbled downstairs, groggy. He saw Pooja and Vikram cooking—a new scene. Usually, Vikram just chatted, but now he co-cooked. "Hi, Arjun, slept well?" Vikram greeted. "See, today I'm cooking—Pooja's helping me." He pinched Pooja discreetly when Arjun wasn't looking. Pooja alarmed that pinch was for to speak with arjun casually. Pooja smiled, handing Arjun tea. "I've arranged everything for our Coimbatore trip. Flights are too expensive—important muhurtham, so tickets in any mode of transporation, we need to go early." It was a lie, coached by Vikram to ensure Vikram drove the 500+ km, swapping with Arjun.
Arjun frowned. "Is that so? Bus or train?" "Already full," Pooja lied smoothly. "We need to drive. Let's start a day earlier." Arjun protested, "No way—1,000+ km up and down. I can't drive, and I won't risk you driving." Pooja pleaded, "I can't miss this event, Arjun. If it was your family function, you'd nag me to go." Arjun sighed, "Oh no, women, women, women." Vikram laughed, "Chill, Arjun. If the car's a headache, I'll drive. You okay with me coming? I can handle it—I'm bored here with no trips for months."
Arjun thought of his father-in-law's harsh treatment and Pooja's plea. To give her this happiness, I'll go by car. But what if my headache worsens? Vikram's a danger, yet I can only rely on him now.
He relented, "Vikram, it's okay—you can come. But if you're bored, I'm not responsible—it's full of family events." Vikram nodded, "I'm fine."
As Arjun turned to leave, Vikram called, "Hey, hey, Pooja, that's not how to cut. Let me teach you." He stood behind her, his body slightly pressed against her back, catching her hand to chop vegetables. He murmured in her ear, "Look, he might say something—I'm too close." Pooja felt a strange fire but consoled herself, It's for winning back Arjun.
Arjun couldn't digest it. "Vikram, which car should we take—mine or yours?" Vikram smiled, "Whichever—mine's better for a long drive."
As Arjun moved away, Vikram winked and flashed a victory sign. Pooja forced a smile, her mind racing.
The next day morning, Monday, Vikram, Pooja, and Arjun got ready and packed their things. As planned, they started in Vikram's Thar jeep.
Pooja announced, "Whoever drives, I don't care—I need to sit in the front passenger seat." It was a plan set in motion by Vikram, and Pooja played her role.
Arjun first drove the car. Three hours into the drive, his headache returned. Mild songs played, Pooja randomly spoke to him, but nothing sank in as the pain worsened. He pulled over at a tea shop. Everyone stepped out, had tea, and prepared to get back. Arjun, his mind in turmoil, asked Vikram to drive.
Vikram seized the chance, moving to the front seat. Pooja boarded beside him. In the pretense of adjusting her seatbelt, Vikram leaned in close, his body pressing against hers in a hug-like manner, creating an erotic tension. His face was inches from hers. Pooja's breath hitched; he winked, whispering, "Arjun could watch." She caught the mirror—Arjun was lost in thought. Pooja hinted he hadn't seen. Vikram's body lingered against hers, the closeness unnerving. Pooja softly said, "That's enough," her voice shaky, stepping back slightly. Arjun caught a glimpse, but his mind churned with disturbance. He couldn't decide between business, his wife, or his obsession with giving her away. He loved her dearly, wanting to free her from him, yet couldn't live without her for a second. He wished for something good to give him clear direction, unaware that tomorrow, at the marriage function, something would happen to guide him to embrace her till the end. Exhausted, he didn't know when he fell asleep. He woke two hours later to find Pooja's hand on the gear, Vikram's hand over hers, saying, "This is how we shift gears." The sight plunged Arjun back into thought. He coughed; the duo pulled their hands away. "Let me drive, Vikram," he said. Pooja's smile returned.
Vikram settled onto the cushion beside Pooja, his decision firm—to test Arjun's reaction. Pooja glanced at him, her eyes heavy with doubt. He leaned in, his voice soft but deliberate. "You need this," he said, patting his shoulder. "This arm—you need this. Catch it, cry on it, let it go. When we go back, I want to see a Pooja with a clear conscience, nothing affecting her. We always need someone to cry for, to lean on—an emotional baggage carrier. I'll be one tonight. Lean on me, shed all the tears. You're affecting yourself too much." Pooja hesitated, her hands trembling, but Vikram gently pulled her, guiding her head to rest on his shoulder, her hands gripping his arms. In that moment, she needed someone—and Vikram was there.
Minutes passed, and Vikram felt the dampness seeping through his shirt sleeve as Pooja cried uncontrollably. "Cry as much as you want," he murmured, his tone soothing yet calculating. He shifted, raising his arm to dbang it around her shoulder, and her body collided freely against his, her head nestled into him.
Arjun, hidden in the shadows, fumed, his fists clenching. I can't let this go further—but I wanted Vikram to take her. How can I watch this, even if it's just consoling? His conflict tore at him, a mix of rage and the bitter taste of his own plan.
Vikram smirked as Pooja's tears soaked his shoulder, pleased by Arjun's silence. He's locked on something—this is my chance. I should use it, split them for real, not just for sex, he thought. Leaning closer, he whispered, "Pooja, speak your heart out. Don't store anything in your head and hurt yourself. Open to me, please. Trust me—even if I can't find a solution, you'll feel light after speaking out."
Pooja, still resting on his shoulder, fell silent for a minute before her voice broke through. "Vikram, please speak openly. Honestly, keep your good-man image aside and tell me what you honestly feel about Arjun's recent change, his lie, his unusual phone calls, that Anjali."
Vikram paused, weighing his words carefully. He wanted to inject doubt without triggering Arjun to emerge and defend himself. "I don't know, Pooja. My head reasons a lot of things, but only you have the answer for it," he said, playing safe.
Pooja pressed, "Just be honest—is he cheating?" Vikram hesitated, then replied, "It can be anything, Pooja. It could be just business, or it may be cheating as you fear, but the cheating part—I don't think so. But it's true he lied to you. He could have said, 'I went to meet them so and so,' as you said, but he didn't. That's what raises my doubt to a big level. And that Anjali—she seems to be hiding a lot behind." Pooja's eyes widened. "You confronted Anjali directly, right?" Vikram nodded. "Yes."
"What if she alerts Arjun and he slams you?" Pooja asked, worry creasing her brow. "What if the real reason is just business—will he think me bad for doubting?" Vikram's voice was steady. "If that case arises, I'll take the blame for you. If he wants me to go, I will. If he asks how I got the number, pretend you don't know. If he doesn't cheat and he's good, reason with him that I loved you one-sided, in an attempt to cause a rift, I used a way to destroy the relation. So I found the number, reached Anjali, and you had no part in it." Pooja looked up at him, lightly slapping his face. "Fuck your sacrifices—be real. I won't leave you in trouble. Let me agree and pacify if he doesn't cheat." Vikram smiled faintly. "I'm telling you the truth."
Pooja exhaled deeply, then asked, "I'm just clearing my head, linking things—his distancing recently, these lies, Anjali. Am I overthinking?" Vikram saw his opening. "Pooja, listen, the answer lies with you two, and especially within you. Let me tell you a story." He crafted it carefully, unaware that Arjun's recent rejection of Pooja's advances stemmed from a headache, not disinterest. "Some loves are everlasting, rare, exceptional—they give back, support, hold together, never fading. Some are momentary, staying a while then fading. Especially after marriage, it's normal—partners grow lethargic, avoiding attention. Earlier, they act fast, do silly things to race ahead of competitors eyeing their partner, impress them, get married. Once achieved, they don't need to please the other, so affection slows.
My friend loved a woman—didn't know why at first. Later, he realized it was for beauty and sex. Before marriage, they had sex; the heat stayed until then, but now it's lost. He overused it, his wishes fulfilled, no longer wanting her in bed. This frustrated her, leading to divorce, while he continued outside."
Pooja's mind reeled, Arjun's admission of a competitive proposal and his avoidance of intimacy flooding back. Doubt intensified within her. Vikram continued, "Problems may come and go between coupls its actually incompatible post marriage, but sex is one part that ensures they're treating us good. Differences fade in bed; if not, it's a sign they're moving away."
Pooja's tears fell uncontrollably, Vikram's injection succeeding. "I don't want to ask how your sex life is," he added. "You don't need to share personal details—just analyze yourself, as someone who loves you truly is telling this, so you can spot, analyze, and fix it." Seeing her tears, he wiped one away, catching her face. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry—did I touch the wrong thing? I'm sorry." Pooja sobbed, "No, it matches Arjun's doing... what?" Vikram asked, alarmed. She cried again, and he turned her side, pulling her into a tight embrace. Her body pressed against his, the heat unimaginable,
Arjun's pulse racing. She's so close to him—how can I bear this? Arjun thought, torn between stopping them and his own plan.
Vikram said, "Pooja, I'm here for you. Let's fix this—I promise you, I'll beat him and get you back." She cried for a few more minutes, slowing down, and Vikram decided on another move. He raised her face gently, kissing her forehead. "YOU CAN TRUST ME. I'm here for you—just control yourself, let's plan." He said, "Get up," but Pooja remained in the embrace.
To lighten the mood, he teased, "Pooja, you once said you hate when I touch you—now you're fully hugging me." A smile crept up on her face; she mockingly beat his arms.
Vikram grinned, "Welcome back, my queen."
Pooja laughed, "You idiot..." She added, "That was when you half-bakedly said you love me. Today, it's different—I realize your true intent for me, and I respect your love, though I cannot reciprocate.
You said I can always lean on you and count on you when trouble arises—I just did that."
Vikram nodded. "Good. I don't want to bring the topic again—I understand why you cried now."
Pooja said, "I'll tell you openly. Arjun admitted sometimes back, when I said about you loving me, he said he was like in a competition and hence quickly proposed, marrying me. He even said he doesn't want kids as it would spoil our youth, and for the second year now, I've used pills. But recent days, his distance is hurting, and Vikram..." She struggled to continue. "Go on," he urged. "Keep it with yourself—it's months since Arjun touched me, and now Anjali—I sense something is completely wrong." She caught his hand. "Please don't take advantage of me. If you truly love me, just get me the truth. I fear confronting him, I fear the truth—if it's all good hearing from him is fine, if it's all wrong, I cannot face it."
Vikram listened silently, his hand catching hers again in assurance. "I want more details—when was the time you felt it went odd, like slow distance, no love kind of stuff?" Pooja said, "It's right after the startup plan." Vikram thought, his genuineness briefly winning over his demon side, and asked, "There must be at least some moments that bring back his old self—what was that?" Pooja said, "He was always business, debt, running errands, etc. Suddenly, she added, off late, only at two instances I saw old Arjun. When I said he that you loved me, his advice, his care, his thoughtfulness was like old Arjun.
There's a contrast in how he behaved a week back—in this same guesthouse, he was drunk—you remember, Vikram?" Vikram nodded. "The second time was after you returned. I was telling Arjun I was complaining to Vikram about his distance; instantly he said, 'Why don't I treat him as a friend first?' Also, he was the only one who said you are a womanizer after your return. I guess he's jealous about you being close with me. What I understand, he gets jealous when I say about you or something like that. He even wanted to settle back all your help; he seems to run for it. I don't know—I'm confused by his way of behavior."
Vikram laughed. "You should see it this way: whenever I was a subject of topic, according to Arjun, I'm his love rival, so he's offended and tries to project himself first, like he's your sole savior, the only person to rely on basically a hero... That's a good sign he's not giving up on you. Even if he's cheating with Anjali—I'm telling just a worst case—him not letting you go to a friend even for conversation is a sign that he still has it for you. You can win him back anytime (I'm just saying in that case, I'm not telling he is cheating now—we are just imagining this isn't real)." Vikram calculated something, aware Arjun was hiding, and decided to up the game with sharp manipulation, the price being Pooja's body. "Okay, it's too late, Pooja—let's go ahead," he said. She replied, "Okay, thank you, Vikram, I feel light today. Okay, see, don't ask anything to Arjun—it might hurt him. We can slowly analyze and fix things, continue to shower your love, just hope he will retreat back soon. We can face the issue if Arjun asks us—I didn't reveal my name to Anjali, so she couldn't have an idea who asked about Arjun. So I hope she may not have alarmed Arjun. Even so, who will she name?" Pooja said, "Okay, I won't ask anything—let's watch him."
As Pooja and Vikram left the spot, Arjun slowly emerged, thankful the spare key was in his pants. He unlocked the door after hearing the engine start and stepped out. Vikram, driving the Thar with Pooja, stopped at a point outside on the road near a tree, where he could watch the guesthouse. He faked a car issue, opened the front bonnet, and pretended to fix it while his eyes fixed on the gate. Five minutes later, he saw a figure approach the road as a car arrived—it was Arjun. Vikram confirmed it, and before Arjun could see him, he closed the bonnet, started the engine, and swiftly raced off.
On the way, his mind calculated furiously. Given the case, Arjun hides something. After so much happening now at the rooftop, it's clear that he's okay even if I kiss her or even more. I've asked Pooja not to confront on who Anjali is, so Pooja won't bring the topic, even about the office lie. If Arjun comes and explains or confronts, he'll get caught for hiding here, so in a way, no one will question no one. It's a clear path for me to manipulate. Pooja broke the silence. "Hey, Vikram, what happened? What are you thinking?" Vikram decided to unveil his game, something he didn't want Arjun to hear on the rooftop. "I'm thinking about you and Arjun," he said. Pooja asked, "What is it about?" Vikram replied, "It's the last part of what we spoke there." Pooja: "About his jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes, if jealousy is bringing him back and working, why not we try it?" Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "By us being closer, emotionally and subtly physically close." Pooja fell silent for a minute, then said, "You mean like in cinema drama, hero being closer with others to spark jealousy?" Vikram: "Yes. But it's different here." Pooja: "How?" Vikram: "There, the hero will be colliding with the heroine and they act—it's mutual. Here, it's different; only I will be initiating it." Pooja: "Why? Only you? I can support a bit too—maybe if he is doing too much, then let's put on an act." Vikram playfully hit her and said, "Idiot, if you do like it, he may think you bad, like a bitch." Pooja asked, "Then what should I do?" Vikram said, "Listen to my explanation. From what you said, I guess he fears his love rival—that's me, I might steal his girlfriend. Underline the word 'stealing'—that's why he came out and became old Arjun those times. If you did like you are consenting to it, he'll lose fire to protect you. Either he'll call you a bitch and go back to Anjali, or he'll think, 'Okay, Pooja got a person to satisfy her needs—I need to focus on Anjali.' In both ways, he will leave you.
The only way we can get back Arjun is by installing fear. Imagine, you are treating me as a friend always, a bit closer after his distance that even Arjun notices. Now, if he maintains the same and you stay in the same boundary, I'm coming and taking advantage of you. He'll see I'm crossing the line, which your eyes show discomfort—he will strike back to get you back."
Pooja: "Wow, you are a schemer."
Vikram: "I used many such schemes when I was going back to women."
Pooja: "Experience speaks."
Vikram looked at her and said, "I experienced bodies but never a love."
Pooja caught his hand and said, "You will one day—not me—someone who is really good to you." They smiled and looked at the road. Vikram struck back, "Let's start slowly—conversation, sitting closer in the same place, cooking together, slowly I touch you, I put my arms around you, we go shopping together.
There's your relatives' marriage right at Coimbatore—we've purchased for them—I'll join you guys. Let's slowly get his attention. For him, my every move is a step to seduce you; for us, my every move is to bring him back from Anjali." Vikram raised his palm and said, "Let's tease him, make him more jealous, let him suffer getting a taste of losing—the only way he can look back." Pooja kept her hand on his palm in acknowledgment of a promise or pledge.
With Pooja's support, the demon in Vikram surged. Let me cuckold you, Arjun—my revenge for taking my girl before I was about to propose, he said to himself.
They reached the house, and as Pooja was getting inside, Vikram pulled her back, causing her to trip. He grabbed her, his body a support for her to stand. Pooja asked, "What happened?" Vikram grinned, "I've begun practicing." A smile crept up on Pooja's face as she said playfully, "Be a friend as always—don't try to use your scheme on me," and went inside.
Chapter 12: Vikram's Seduction Starts, Aided by Pooja's Role [18+]
Continuation, 15 kms away
Arjun sat in the cab, the hum of the engine fading into the background as he drove home on night, The guesthouse lingered in his mind, replaying every word Pooja had shared with Vikram—her doubts, her tears, her loneliness. His hands tightened on the wheel as guilt crashed over him. What have I done? he thought. It's all my fault she's slipping toward Vikram. In the silence, he traced his mistakes, each a step he believed triggered her escalation.
First, he recalled, after the startup, I stopped taking her anywhere. I was buried in business, oblivious that my focus left her feeling lonely. Pooja would never have doubted my love if I'd just spent time with her. The memory stung—nights of meetings, no dates, no drives along ECR.
Second, his mind shifted to his depression over debts. I stayed detached from regular life, like a simple chat with her. All I talked about was 'Do you have extra money?' or 'Where can we get a loan?'—those are the only memories this year. I neglected her, and I didn't even see it would make her feel this way. Pooja would never have felt neglected or taken for granted if I'd been present.
Third, he winced at the recent headache that stopped their intimacy. I couldn't make love, but that doesn't mean I dislike her or that I've had enough. Yet, with Vikram's friend story, Pooja might've bought into the idea I married her just for beauty and sex. That's on me for not explaining.
Fourth, the moment he discovered his health issue flashed back. I should have called her right then. Pooja would never have left my side, not even a bit, if I'd trusted her with the truth.
Fifth, he remembered that day he went to pick her up. Instead of turmoil, I should have waited and picked her up myself. Giving a chance for Vikram to give a lift let him suddenly enter our life—this was my mistake.
Sixth, Vikram asking to stay hit him next. I should have said no when he asked for help to stay in our house. That would've reduced any minimal involvement of him further—I missed that chance.
Seventh, the confession moment replayed. When Vikram admitted he loved her, I should have kicked him out instead of that diplomatic talk with Pooja. She would've seen I love her the most and am possessive—I missed showing that.
Eighth, he regretted letting Vikram back. When Pooja wanted him around again, I should not have allowed it. She would never have stopped things that worried me if I'd set boundaries.
Ninth, the office lie gnawed at him. I shouldn't have said I was at the office. I could've said something else. Pooja would never have doubted my honesty, and she'd have kept a big distance from Vikram.
Tenth, the guesthouse night haunted him. I should have confronted Vikram the moment he came in with Pooja. She would've feared me, and Vikram would've stopped his manipulation.
Arjun's head throbbed as the cab neared home. It's not destiny or Vikram's love or schemes. Maybe he eyed Pooja or orchestrated things, but everything was done by my inaction. Vikram having a hand over her is due to me.
He wrestled with his next move. Should I let them go ahead, or should I be honest? I don't want Pooja to live alone, and I don't want to worry about my health. I just want to see her happy before I go. I should digest this a bit. But he wasn't fully decided—he leaned more toward stopping Vikram, a cat on the wall, torn between surrender and action.
The cab stopped, and he stumbled out, heading to a bar instead, drinking until the world blurred. Drunk, he staggered home, avoiding conversation as he collapsed on the couch.
Pooja and Vikram, already home, heard the door creak. Pooja rushed to find Arjun slumped, reeking of alcohol. "Arjun! You're drunk?" she gasped, her voice trembling. Vikram stepped forward, steadying Arjun. "Let's get him upstairs," he said, helping her move him to the bedroom.
As they laid him down, Vikram doubted Arjun's drunken state was a shield to avoid talk. "Don't worry, Pooja—he's just drunk," he reassured. "Arjun never drank like this," she murmured, confused.
In two years of marriage, he'd only pretended once before—the smell hadn't been this strong. Is he acting again, or is this real? she wondered, the odor overwhelming. Unable to sleep beside him, she retreated to the sofa downstairs.
Morning came at 6:30 AM , Pooja woke, stunned to find herself in Vikram's bedroom. Vikram entered with bed coffee, smiling. "Good morning!" he said cheerfully. "How did I land here?" she asked, alarmed. "You were so tired on the sofa, I lifted you here," he explained.
"Where were you sleeping, Vikram?" she pressed. "Right beside you," he grinned. "See, your nightgown's untouched apart from lifting you—those wrinkles are from you turning. I'm a pakka gentleman." He laughed, easing her tension. "What if Arjun saw me here?" she worried. "Calm down," Vikram soothed. "He's still out, full drunk. I locked his room from outside last night and just opened it—he's asleep. We're safe."
He leaned closer. "We should start our closeness right away." "How?" Pooja asked, hesitant. "Cooking," he suggested. "If I touch you directly, it'll feel odd, and everyone might think we're acting. Let's make it natural—slow progress. We're not challenging him today, got it?" Pooja nodded, unsure but trusting.
By 8:00 AM, Arjun stumbled downstairs, groggy. He saw Pooja and Vikram cooking—a new scene. Usually, Vikram just chatted, but now he co-cooked. "Hi, Arjun, slept well?" Vikram greeted. "See, today I'm cooking—Pooja's helping me." He pinched Pooja discreetly when Arjun wasn't looking. Pooja alarmed that pinch was for to speak with arjun casually. Pooja smiled, handing Arjun tea. "I've arranged everything for our Coimbatore trip. Flights are too expensive—important muhurtham, so tickets in any mode of transporation, we need to go early." It was a lie, coached by Vikram to ensure Vikram drove the 500+ km, swapping with Arjun.
Arjun frowned. "Is that so? Bus or train?" "Already full," Pooja lied smoothly. "We need to drive. Let's start a day earlier." Arjun protested, "No way—1,000+ km up and down. I can't drive, and I won't risk you driving." Pooja pleaded, "I can't miss this event, Arjun. If it was your family function, you'd nag me to go." Arjun sighed, "Oh no, women, women, women." Vikram laughed, "Chill, Arjun. If the car's a headache, I'll drive. You okay with me coming? I can handle it—I'm bored here with no trips for months."
Arjun thought of his father-in-law's harsh treatment and Pooja's plea. To give her this happiness, I'll go by car. But what if my headache worsens? Vikram's a danger, yet I can only rely on him now.
He relented, "Vikram, it's okay—you can come. But if you're bored, I'm not responsible—it's full of family events." Vikram nodded, "I'm fine."
As Arjun turned to leave, Vikram called, "Hey, hey, Pooja, that's not how to cut. Let me teach you." He stood behind her, his body slightly pressed against her back, catching her hand to chop vegetables. He murmured in her ear, "Look, he might say something—I'm too close." Pooja felt a strange fire but consoled herself, It's for winning back Arjun.
Arjun couldn't digest it. "Vikram, which car should we take—mine or yours?" Vikram smiled, "Whichever—mine's better for a long drive."
As Arjun moved away, Vikram winked and flashed a victory sign. Pooja forced a smile, her mind racing.
The next day morning, Monday, Vikram, Pooja, and Arjun got ready and packed their things. As planned, they started in Vikram's Thar jeep.
Pooja announced, "Whoever drives, I don't care—I need to sit in the front passenger seat." It was a plan set in motion by Vikram, and Pooja played her role.
Arjun first drove the car. Three hours into the drive, his headache returned. Mild songs played, Pooja randomly spoke to him, but nothing sank in as the pain worsened. He pulled over at a tea shop. Everyone stepped out, had tea, and prepared to get back. Arjun, his mind in turmoil, asked Vikram to drive.
Vikram seized the chance, moving to the front seat. Pooja boarded beside him. In the pretense of adjusting her seatbelt, Vikram leaned in close, his body pressing against hers in a hug-like manner, creating an erotic tension. His face was inches from hers. Pooja's breath hitched; he winked, whispering, "Arjun could watch." She caught the mirror—Arjun was lost in thought. Pooja hinted he hadn't seen. Vikram's body lingered against hers, the closeness unnerving. Pooja softly said, "That's enough," her voice shaky, stepping back slightly. Arjun caught a glimpse, but his mind churned with disturbance. He couldn't decide between business, his wife, or his obsession with giving her away. He loved her dearly, wanting to free her from him, yet couldn't live without her for a second. He wished for something good to give him clear direction, unaware that tomorrow, at the marriage function, something would happen to guide him to embrace her till the end. Exhausted, he didn't know when he fell asleep. He woke two hours later to find Pooja's hand on the gear, Vikram's hand over hers, saying, "This is how we shift gears." The sight plunged Arjun back into thought. He coughed; the duo pulled their hands away. "Let me drive, Vikram," he said. Pooja's smile returned.
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