“What?” she frowned at him as he laughed outright. “Shatru, have you gone mad? You probably need to see a doctor. I…”
He laughed harder than ever, pulling her into his arms. “Can you hear yourself? You’re simply hilarious.”
She hit a fist on his solid chest, hurting herself more than she did him. “What’s so funny?”
He stopped laughing to look at her serious face. She obviously hadn’t realised yet. “I don’t need a doctor.”
“How do you know? You don’t even know how you got hurt. You…”
“I know.”
“You do?” She glared at him. “So, why won’t you tell me? Was it your she-dragon?” Her voice was sarcastic now.
“Hmm…you’re right, it was my she-dragon.” His eyes danced mischievously, even as he bit his lips to stop the grin that was waiting to split his face in two.
“Now you’re pulling my leg.” She pouted at him, her hands gripping his shoulders. “Are you going to tell me or what?”
He laughed again, unable to stop himself. “Did you see the mark last night, when we reached home?”
“I can’t recall.”
“Okay, then. Let me tell you that it wasn’t there.”
“Then how did it happen? Wait…” Light dawned in her eyes even as hot colour rushed into her face. “I didn’t do that. No way!” She shook her head vigorously. “Or did I?” Her voice was a whisper now. Avantika turned away to bury her flaming face on a pillow, beating her fists against it. Oh my God! She couldn’t have bitten him so badly to leave such a mark. It was a dark red on his bronzed skin. No way!
Shatrughan ran a caressing hand down her naked back, doing his best to calm her with his soothing strokes. Though his body continued to vibrate with laughter. “Come on, sweetheart. It’s only a hickey. And it doesn’t hurt, I swear.” He bent down to trace a damp tongue down her spine, pressing little kisses on his way down.
Avantika squirmed at first, but her body turned traitor, responding enthusiastically to his caresses. She let him lift her up in his arms as he pulled her on his lap, his lips tracing a wet path down her shoulder.
He bit her softly, his tongue stroking the area immediately. “See, biting is so much a part of lovemaking. I…”
She turned to bury her face on his shoulder. “But Shatru, you were so gentle while I left such a horrible mark on you. I’m so sorry.”
He lifted her face off his shoulder to look into her eyes. “Don’t be. I enjoyed it. No, listen,” when she shook her head, “I found it totally arousing. Okay, let me prove it to you.”
She stared at him, wondering how he was going to do it when he bent down to run his tongue on her breast. The next second, she felt his teeth nipping the skin above her nipple, making her moan. She was startled to feel the sudden wetness between her legs in response to his bite. Her hands automatically went around his head, holding him close, her body clamouring for more. She could feel his smile against her body even as his mouth closed around the tip of her breast.
He suckled gently and then hard, arousing her to fever pitch. He laughed when she pushed him down on the bed and climbed over him, sitting on his stomach.
“Now tell me what I should do,” she commanded, not knowing how to take it further.
Shatru put his hands on her hips to lift her above him before thrusting his shaft into her and wasn’t really surprised when he heard her moan loudly. He lifted her again and brought her down on himself.
She caught on and continued to ride him, her head thrust back, her curly hair flowing down her back, her breasts bouncing rhythmically, her eyes closed in concentration. She was a sight to behold as she revelled in his caresses while he ran his hands from her shoulders to her chest and down over her stomach. She pressed harder, reaching out to the stars till they suddenly came down in a brilliant shower, making her explode in an orgasm. She flopped against him, even as he helped her continue to ride him for a bit longer until he climaxed inside her.
Shatru hugged her close, not wanting to let go of her, ever.
6
They went by Shatru’s bike to Avantika’s hotel to check her out. They got back home with her rucksack, into which she had stuffed all her clothes in a hurry. Leaving her bag at his apartment, they went out to have lunch in the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant, boarding the tram at the south bank of the Yarra River. Avantika was excited seeing the old world decor of the tram.
“Can you believe that this tramcar was built in 1948?” said Shatru. “They continue to maintain the vintage look.”
Avantika looked around in awe as they stepped into the tram that was fitted with brass and velvet furnishing while feeling cosy with the air-conditioner running full blast and soft music playing in the background. They were to have wine and lunch on the tram as they travelled through Melbourne. What fun!
They got into the tram to sit at a table for two and were served chilled wine, even as the maître d handed them a menu each. Avantika sipped her wine, checking out what was on for lunch.
Shatru searched his menu with a look of concentration. The appetiser and entrée were fine, both vegetarian. He decided to order the roasted red capsicum dip and pumpkin soup along with goat’s cheese and buttered croutons. So far, so good! But both items on the main course had meat in them. “Have you decided what you want to have?” he asked Avantika.
“Yes,” she nodded, looking forward to what seemed to be a delicious experience. While the plush interior was simply gorgeous, Avantika kept turning her head to the window to catch a view of the city passing by. Giving the menu another cursory glance, she said, “I’ll go with the hummus dip, duck terrine and the roast fillet of beef for the main course.”
When Shatru gave his order to the maître d, the man asked, “What about the main course, sir? What would you like to have?”
“I’d like to consult your chef. You see, I’m vegetarian and don’t eat any kind of meat.”
Avantika gave him a surprised look even as the maître d replied, “Sure, sir. Bon appétit!”
“You are a vegetarian?” she asked the obvious.
Shatru nodded. “Yeah, though I do have eggs at times. You have meat, obviously.”
“Of course I do. I grew up on all types of them and love to explore new cuisines.”
“I’m just glad that a lot of people are turning into vegetarians or even vegans around the world. Otherwise, I’d have a tough time visiting other countries,” said Shatru.
“Have you ever tasted chicken or fish?” When he shook his head, she gave him a small frown. “If you haven’t, how will you know that you like them or not?”
“That’s not the point. I don’t eat meat only because I’m against the killing of animals and using them as food. Let’s forget it, nah, Avi? I don’t want to get into an argument. It’s just my opinion and I’d rather stick to it.”
The chef came to their table before Avantika could retaliate. After a few minutes of discussion, he offered to make a cheesy vegetable risotto for Shatru. The latter thanked him with a smile and a handshake before sipping on his wine.
“What awesome service!” Avantika was impressed with both the restaurant’s chef as well with Shatru who got his own way.
Shatru smiled at her. “Absolutely! It’s a joy being here in Melbourne.”
Looking at him curiously, Avantika asked, “So, from when did the travel bug bite you?”
“I always followed the National Geographic Channel even when I was in school. Seeing my interest, my father sent me on every single trip the students went on, whether within India or outside. Later, while at college, I went on a few more trips with friends of mine. What I realised was that I didn’t want to do the tourist thing. It’s not possible to know a place or the people by tagging along with a group of sightseeing travellers. So, after I finished college, I left home with a backpack, going from one country to another, working my way, taking odd jobs. I suppose one would call it wanderlust. I keep touching base at home only to pack my bags again w
ithin a couple of weeks.”
Avantika listened at him, fascinated. “Your parents are okay with it? They haven’t insisted on your getting a career or whatever? You know what I mean. I…” She stopped, biting a tongue, wondering if she sounded insulting.
Shatru smiled. “Go on, ask away. I don’t have a problem. You aren’t asking something that a lot of people haven’t already questioned me about. First of all, my parents are absolutely fine with it. My dad especially believes in letting people be. I’d be proud if I was half as good as him when I bring up my kids. Yeah, I do plan to have a family sometime in the future.” He grinned charmingly, before continuing. “We all harp about education. Well, am I not gaining knowledge travelling the world? And I’m clear that I don’t want to spend my dad’s money. I make my own way.” He shrugged. “There are times when I have to live frugally, but that works for me. In the beginning I stayed with a few families. The accommodation and food were both cheaper that way. I also got to learn about how the kids in those homes lived. This was the first independent trip I made to Denmark to a small town called Dragør. Later on, I learned to work my way around the world, paying for my travel, stay and food.”
“Amazing!” She was absolutely impressed. “Where all have you been?”
“Most of Asia, parts of USA, Europe and now Australia. You tell me, when did you decide to take up dance as a profession? And oh, by the way, I don’t even know your full name.”
Avantika grinned at him, tucking into the steaming food placed in front of her. “Kamath. I grew up in Bengaluru where my parents still live. I learned Bharatnatyam when I was in school. Later on, it was fusion dance classes for me while at college since it was considered “cool”.” She drew quotation marks in the air. “After that I never looked back. Dancing grounds me and keeps me fit. I joined a troupe in the beginning and later, moved on to create my own. I’ve had a lot of fun dancing on stage. But now I’m not that keen about it. Choreographing for a film is what I’m doing nowadays. Oh yeah, as I mentioned to you before, it was your brother Bharat who gave me the contact.” She shrugged before continuing, “But somehow, I don’t think I want to continue doing that. I’d rather teach kids who are a lot more enthusiastic, if you know what I mean. My dream is to start a dance school.”
“That’s definitely a plan. Will you teach me to dance?” he asked, a dark brow up in query.
“Why?” She wasn’t going to teach him just because he thought it was a way to impress her.
Colour ran up Shatru’s manly cheeks as he looked down at his soup bowl. “I’ve always been fascinated by people’s grace when they swing to music. Believe me, I’ve tried, but somehow I haven’t been able to get the hang of it. Somewhere deep down, the wish continues to burn within me. And I don’t believe it’s ever late to learn something new. So, what say?” He looked up suddenly to pin her with his intense black gaze.
“I’d love to,” she smiled. “Your job as bartender, do you work all seven days?”
“I’ve already requested them for leave this week. I’ll have to go today since it’s too short a notice. But I’m free from tomorrow till you’re here in Melbourne.”
“Thanks,” she smiled, placing her hand on his.
He lifted her hand to place a kiss on her palm, even as he looked deeply into her eyes.
Avantika took deep breaths to slow down her heart that was beating at too fast a pace, her eyes mesmerised by the desire in his gaze.
They continued to chat over the delicious lunch, managing to get a few glimpses of the city outside the window, though they were too absorbed in each other most of the time.
They got off the tramcar restaurant after a couple of hours, hand-in-hand. Avantika laid her head on Shatru’s shoulder, saying, “Thank you so much, my dragon. I had a terrific time.”
He turned to kiss her right there on the road, making her eyes go wide. It was Melbourne and it was probably perfectly alright for some public display of affection, though it was too new for her. But what the hell! Avantika threw her arms around his neck to kiss him back with equal fervour.
They went back home first. “Do you want to go to the bar with me or do you want to catch up with some well-earned rest? Tomorrow’s going to be hectic. We’ll be leaving early on a full-day tour to Maru Park and Phillip Island.” He gave her a choice.
“I’d like to go with you, unless you think I’ll be in your way.”
He pulled her close to him, pressing his lips to her cheek. “Never that. I’d love to have you go with me.”
She grinned. “Then I’ll go and get my stilts on.” Saying that, she walked towards the bedroom where she’d left her luggage.
“Let me help you,” he offered mischievously, following her.
They ended up making love before rushing to get ready for the evening, taking a shower together to save time. Or that’s what they insisted on believing.
Giggling, Avantika sat behind him on the motorbike, wearing a hot pink dress with noodle straps and matching heels. “I wonder how you managed to pack so many pairs of shoes in one rucksack,” he teased, adjusting the strap on his helmet.
“Now you know how smart I am,” she replied cheekily, throwing her arms around his waist and pressing close to his broad back with a sigh of pleasure. “Did I tell you what a gorgeous body you have?” she whispered in his ear. “And I so love those gold bands you’re wearing in your ears, my sexy dragon!”
Shatru, who had just fired the bike, switched off the engine, turning to look at his passenger. “Behave, if you want us to have a safe ride,” he growled.
She pouted at him, fluttering her lashes innocently. “It’s only words, and words are all I have…smft…”
He shut her up, effectively, after tugging off both their helmets.
7
The next day, they left home pretty early to stop for breakfast at Time Out Fed Square that was barely a minute’s walk from Flinders Street Railway Station. Shatru pointed out the landmark building to Avantika as she clicked photos of the picturesque landscape. She insisted on him posing for most of the pictures. And of course, there were selfies, his long arm managing to get the perfect angles of the two of them. They stepped into the busy restaurant at 8.30 and sat at a corner table to order a huge breakfast of toasted muesli, buttermilk pancakes and Eggs Benedict and two large cups of cappuccino.
Avantika had insisted on ordering the Eggs Benedict with spinach instead of ham so that they could both share everything. The muesli was loaded with nuts, seeds and berries topped with honey yoghurt and poached pear. It was simply delicious as they fought over the large bowl to almost lick it clean before attacking the fluffy pancakes that came with muddled strawberries, maple syrup and raspberry ice cream. The poached eggs and hollandaise on toasted muffin were to die for. They relished every bite, sipping their coffees, while soaking up the morning sun. They had to board their bus from nearby at 9.45 for the day tour to Maru Koala & Animal Park and Phillip Island.
Avantika took a seat at the window with Shatru pointing out the landmarks along the way. They reached the animal park just in time for lunch. She couldn’t wait to get the meal out of the way, eager to set eyes on the koalas and kangaroos that lived in the park. They bought some feed sold in plastic containers before going to meet the kangaroos. The smaller ones were eager to be petted and ate from people’s hands. Avantika was fascinated with a joey that peeped out of the pouch in its mother’s tummy. Shatru watched indulgently as she giggled when the little joey stepped out to take some food from her hand before jumping back into the pouch.
They moved on to watch the koalas that were high up in the eucalyptus trees, munching away on the leaves. Avantika was thrilled to bits when she got a chance to hold a baby koala in her arms. It clung to her, its arms tightly wrapped around her middle as Shatru clicked away with his iPhone camera. “It’s so like holding a human baby,” said Avantika, parting from the little one with obvious reluctance.
They walked through shelters for emus and cockatoos
before reaching the gift shop. Avantika bought a few trinkets to take to her family and friends back home, only those that fit into her tote bag.
From there, they rode on the bus to Phillip Island. The sea looked an amazing shade of blue and what struck Avantika the most was the pristine condition of the beach. Boards along the way warned them of the care for marine life, instructing them to stick to the walking tracks and not intrude on the lives of sea creatures.
They walked down to Nobbies Ocean Centre, looking for seals that gave a rare audience. Avantika gave a small shriek of delight when they caught sight of a couple of them basking in the late afternoon sun.
They walked a lot, checking out Cape Woolamai first and then the Pyramid Rock that was further out in the sea. The foamy waves crashing against the rocks were a sight to behold, the cool spray touching them at times. Shatru and Avantika stood there, watching the waves for a long time, their arms around each other.
“Isn’t that simply awesome?!” Shatru’s voice was hoarse with emotion. This is exactly the reason why he wanted to see every inch of the world. So many beautiful sights to behold!
Avantika nodded, her head against his shoulder, feeling reverent as she drank in the sight.
As the sun began to slide down into the sea, it was time to go watch the penguin parade. “They are called fairy penguins”, said Shatru. The little ones waddled on two feet, walking from the sea towards the land, their backs glistening wet. They walked over the rocky beach in large numbers, looking like miniature human beings.
It was a blissful end to a wonderful day.
The next day, they set out on an organised 4-hour coach tour of the city of Melbourne. On the way, the guide pointed out places of interest such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and National Tennis Center. They got out of the coach to see the Shrine of Remembrance, a memorial for the Australian soldiers who had died in the world wars.
From there, they walked across to the Royal Botanic Garden on the banks of the Yarra River. Colourful flowers in myriad shades of the rainbow vied with the green grass verges and trees of many shapes and sizes. Shatru and Avantika walked hand-in-hand through the garden, breathing in deeply of the clean air. There were ducks swimming in the lake that was beyond the Rose Pavilion, getting its name from the variety of rose bushes planted there.
Flaming Sun Collection 2: Marriages Made in India (Box Set with 5 novellas) Page 35