Page 20 of Carnal Games

“Is that right?”

“Yep. My husband will have to get used to it.”

She shakes her head at my antics, finishing her tea in one final sip. As she stands and grabs my empty cup to put in the dishwasher, I lightly ask, “Ma, Yukta and I are invited to a friend’s party tonight. I will be out late. Is that fine?”

A furrow appears on her forehead. She knows I’m nervous about going to parties. Still, she asks, “Which friend?”

“Anamika.” I pat myself for coming up with the name quickly. “It’s her birthday.”

“Okay. Don’t be too late.”

I sigh in relief. “Thanks, Ma.”

Before she can ask any more questions, I grab mydadu’sbreakfast and skip out of the kitchen. An extra pep is in my step as I return to my bedroom.

My mind whirls with sinful possibilities.

I’m going tomeetKian tonight.

Chapter Six

Iris

Parties or hanging out in a big crowd, in general, give me anxiety.

Instead of enjoying myself, I’m overthinking in my head, worrying about making small talk and unintentionally making a fool of myself. If I can’t connect to a person, I’m an awkward and shy mess.

The type of girl who blends into the shadows and hates being the center of attention.

Intimidated by the extroverts in the group.

While I secretly envy their confidence, brooding in my corner and wishing I were more like them. It leaves me feeling inadequate and like a social outcast.

It’s a constant battle in my head to remind myself that I’m perfect the way I am.

I’m most comfortable with having a one-on-one conversation depending on the person, which is another reason I became friends with Nathan so easily. He didn’t make fun ofme when I zoned out, tripped on my feet, and spilled my chaotic situation. He was patient and kind.

Now, I’m walking straight into the eye of the storm of my own free will.

My nerves are through the roof.

Throughout the day, I changed my mind about not going a million times.

Despite Nathan’s promise to stay by my side, he will need to mingle with his friends and guests at some point. I can’t attach myself to his arm like a parasite.

What if they ask me a lot of questions?

About how we met? How long we’ve known each other? How close we are?

Nathan hasn’t shared just how much he’s told his family about me.

Hopefully, his parents are down-to-earth like he is. I know how most rich people can be uptight. I’m crossing my fingers to be proven wrong and that it’s simply a stereotype.

I take deep breaths to calm down as I near the street of the grocery store, my heels clacking on the cemented pavement. The passersby eye me in my shimmering red minidress. The most expensive garment in my entire wardrobe. It was a splurge from my eighteenth birthday.

Avoiding the watchful eyes that stare a bit too long, I quicken my steps.

Before leaving home, I left Yukta a text to cover for me in case my mom called. She had a lot of questions, which I postponed till tomorrow. A herculean task because my best friend is super impatient and demanding.