“Hriday. That’s my name,” he said, twisting one of my hands behind my back while his other arm held my waist in an unyielding grip. My feet barely grazed the floor as he pulled me closer. My heart thundered inside my chest, each beat heavier than the last, overwhelmed by his nearness.

“Voh... hum—” I stammered uncontrollably, my voice trembling as his breath fanned over my lips and the tip of his nose brushed against mine.