73. REXY AND LEO

AUTHOR’S POV

The family had just finished breakfast when Ranveer broke the silence.
"Abhimanyu... actually, your mom wants to say something."

Abhimanyu raised an eyebrow and glanced at his mother, confused.
Ridhimaa mumbled under her breath, looking toward her husband, "Nothing can happen to this man..." Then louder, she said, "Actually, your dad and I have a gift for you both."

Abhimanyu and Shivnya looked at each other, puzzled by the hesitation in her voice. They both nodded slowly, urging her to continue.

"Uhm... you both never went on a honeymoon, so we were thinking..." Ridhimaa trailed off awkwardly.

Abhimanyu chuckled. "So this is why you both were acting so weird?"

Ridhimaa narrowed her eyes playfully. "I wasn't! Your dad was the one panicking and making me nervous."

Ranveer shook his head with a sigh.

Ridhimaa continued, "Anyway, we want to sponsor your honeymoon. So tell us—where do you both want to go?"

Abhimanyu turned to Shivnya and asked with a smirk, "Do you want to visit my palace?"

Shivnya blinked, confused. "Palace??"

He chuckled, "Yes. We're going to Russia. And you guys don't need to arrange anything—"

Before he could finish, Ranveer interjected, "Yeah, yeah—we know! You've got a palace there. You'll stay there. It's settled!"

Abhimanyu just nodded, while Shivnya remained adorably puzzled.

Later, while driving her to the office...

Shivnya turned to him and asked, "Do you really have a palace?"

Abhimanyu smirked, eyes still on the road. "Yes, my queen."

Shivnya squinted. "For real??"

As they pulled into her office driveway, he got out and opened her door like a gentleman. "Yes. And we're leaving Wednesday. So make sure you clear your schedule and wrap up your pending work."

---

TUESDAY NIGHT

Shivnya stood in the walk-in closet, shouting out in frustration, "Ugh! Because of you, my clothes are tight around my chest now! You keep sucking on them like a baby—clutching them all the time. Now they're bigger!"

Abhimanyu, lounging on the bed with documents in hand, smirked and shouted back, "So, basically, I made them look like actual breasts. Before our wedding, you were kinda... flat!"

Shivnya stormed out of the closet, marched to him, and grabbed his collar.
"How dare you say that?! I... I was... I was okay!" she huffed, trying to sound confident but failing adorably.

Abhimanyu laughed, pulling her closer. "Alright, alright. Now can we please pack? We still have to sleep—and we leave for Russia in the morning. Long flight, baby."

Shivnya scoffed and returned to packing, muttering under her breath.

By 2 a.m., she was growing increasingly irritated—her second day of periods had brought along killer cramps, raging mood swings, and discomfort. Abhimanyu, sensing her struggle, didn't say a word. He helped her pack, cracked silly jokes to lift her mood, massaged her sore feet... but nothing seemed to ease her pain.

Finally, around 3:15 a.m., she curled up in his lap and drifted off to sleep, cocooned in his warmth, wrapped in his quiet comfort and care.

MORNING

Waking up was a struggle for Shivnya.

Her eyes barely opened as she groaned in pain, her body aching, cramps hitting hard. Abhimanyu didn't let her lift a finger. He literally carried her to the bathroom like a fragile doll and gave her a warm, relaxing massage bath — rubbing soothing oils into her back, her legs, her belly — whispering soft words and pressing tender kisses on her temple.

Even though he had insisted on postponing the trip, knowing how cranky she gets during her periods, Shivnya was adamant. She wanted to go now. And so, here they were — on their way to Russia.

---

IN THE PRIVATE JET

Once the flight took off, Abhimanyu looked at her lovingly and asked, "Do you want to sleep?"

Shivnya gave him an emotional, tired pout. "Yes... but I can't sleep on these seats."

Abhimanyu chuckled, unbuckled her seatbelt, and gently took her hand. "Come with me."

He opened a sleek door, revealing a luxurious bedroom inside the jet.

Shivnya's eyes widened, and without thinking, she hugged him tightly, her heart swelling at the gesture. She climbed into the soft bed, immediately curling into the plush pillows—and then tugged him toward her.

He didn't resist.

Within moments, they both curled into each other, arms tangled, legs intertwined. Safe. Warm. Loved. They didn't even realize when sleep took them over.

---

A Few Hours Later

A soft knock on the door stirred Abhimanyu. Slowly, carefully, he slipped out of Shivnya's embrace and collected the lunch plates from the flight attendant. He returned to the room, setting the trays aside, then turned to wake up his sleepy queen.

She was buried under the blanket, cuddled like a baby.

"Shivuu... wake up, baby," he whispered, brushing her hair from her face.

But Shivnya, still half-asleep, mumbled:

"Two more minutes, Daddy..."

Abhimanyu smirked.

She turned to the other side, "Carry me..."

He chuckled softly.

"Sleepy... sleepy..." she added with a pout, snuggling back into the covers.

Laughing quietly, Abhimanyu gave up on words and simply scooped her into his arms. He carried her like the little sleepyhead she was and sat on the chair with her in his lap. She nuzzled into his neck, barely awake.

He picked up a bite of food and said in the gentlest tone, "Shivuu... look at me. Open your mouth, baby. Your little tummy has been empty since morning... time to fill it back."

Eyes still closed, trusting him blindly, Shivnya opened her mouth like a well-trained princess.

Her king smiled proudly and continued feeding her bite by bite, letting her stay cuddled in his arms. It was only after the meal was halfway done that she finally blinked her eyes open properly, her sleep melting away, her cramps slightly eased, and her heart full.

She was getting the kind of love every girl dreams of — pampered, spoiled, adored.

A true princess in the arms of her king.

After the Meal

Once Shivnya finished eating, Abhimanyu gently wiped her lips with a tissue and looked at her with a soft smile.

He lifted her in his arms again and placed her back on the bed, covering her in the cozy blanket. Brushing a few strands from her face, he whispered,
"Now what do you want to do, my princess?"

Shivnya blinked, thought for a second, then muttered cutely, "Movie..?"

Abhimanyu chuckled. "Movie it is."

He set up a light-hearted romcom on the screen inside the private jet's lounge. The two snuggled up, munching on popcorn and sipping warm cocoa while the movie played. Laughter echoed between kisses and playful nudges. It was comfort. It was love.

As evening approached and the film ended, they had some light snacks before the pilot made an announcement.

"We will be landing shortly. Kindly fasten your seatbelts."

Abhimanyu and Shivnya returned to their seats, buckled up, and within minutes, their jet touched down in Moscow, Russia.

Arrival in Moscow

Once inside the private terminal, Abhimanyu disappeared for a minute and returned with two elegant coats—one for him, a tailored black trench coat, and one for Shivnya—a royal beige wrap coat lined with faux fur, perfect for the mildly chilly weather.

"Here," he said, helping her slip her arms through the sleeves. "The evenings and mornings are chilly here."

They exited the jet together, and the moment Shivnya stepped outside, a gentle breeze swept through, making her long hair dance like waves. She closed her eyes for a second and smiled.

The weather was perfect—not too cold, not too warm. A soft, romantic chill kissed her skin.

They were escorted into a luxury car, and the drive began through scenic, empty roads surrounded by dense forest on either side. The sun was just beginning to set, casting a golden hue over the wet leaves from earlier rains. Shivnya rested her head on Abhimanyu's shoulder, watching the blur of trees pass by while holding his hand.

As the car turned toward a grand, vine-draped driveway, Abhimanyu suddenly said,
"Shivuu... can you close your eyes for me?"

She looked at him, confused. "Why...?"

"Just trust me."

Sighing with a playful eye-roll, she obeyed and shut her eyes. Her lips curled into a small smile. She could feel his excitement.

Moments Later

The car halted. Abhimanyu quickly stepped out and came around to her side. He opened the door and extended his hand.

"Still closed?" he asked.

"Yes!" she replied, her voice laced with suspense.

He smiled, picked her up bridal-style and whispered, "Okay, open them... now."

As Shivnya blinked her eyes open, she gasped.

In front of her stood a majestic palace—like something straight out of a fairytale.

Velvet drapes hung in the tall windows, embroidered silk curtains billowed in the wind, crystal chandeliers sparkled even from outside. The outer walls were a soft creamy colour , with baby pink and pastel blue cushions seen through the glass balconies. Peach-toned flowers bloomed along the entrance, with hints of sunshine yellow brightening the floral archway.
It was magical—flowing, elegant, regal.

And just like that...
Her heart melted.

Still in his arms, she looked up at him and whispered, "This... is yours?"

"No," he said with a small smirk. "Ours."

He carried her through the palace doors, where golden sconces lit up the entrance, paintings of royal ancestors lined the lavender walls, and the floor shimmered with polished marble tiles.

Inside, it smelled of fresh roses, warm wood, and hints of vanilla.

As soon as Abhimanyu gently placed Shivnya on her feet inside the grand entrance, she slowly walked in, her eyes wide, soaking in every inch of the breathtaking palace.

She turned toward him, a teasing smile playing on her lips.
"This doesn't look like the palace of a ruthless mafia..."

Abhimanyu chuckled, walked up behind her, and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. His lips brushed against her ear as he whispered,
"You're right. It's not. This palace belongs to a man who loves his wife more than anything in this world."

He gently turned her toward him and added,
"You know... the day I saw you in London, I knew. I knew I didn't want that life anymore. I wanted peace—and you are my peace, Shivuu. I didn't want to go back to that world of blood and darkness. So I quit. I came here... changed everything. Every single thing. Because I wanted to build a life—a real life—with you. With my family—with my kid—"

He stopped mid-sentence.

Shivnya looked up at him, her heart full, and gently cupped his cheek.
"I know... not now, but someday. We'll talk about it. I won't ruin your mood right now. But... Thank you, Abhi. This place is magical. It feels like we're the real king and queen, not some mafia and gangster pair."

Abhimanyu laughed softly and kissed her forehead.
"You are both in real also ... my queen and my gangster girl."

Just then, the palace staff entered and bowed respectfully.

Abhimanyu smiled and said,
"Shivuu, meet the staff. If you need anything, they're always here."

He gestured one by one.
"This is Edward, Max, Cristina, and Georgia."

They all bowed again, greeting her with warm smiles.

Abhimanyu then intertwined his fingers with hers and led her toward the grand royal staircase, heading to their bedroom.

Shivnya, meanwhile, was in a trance.
Everything—from the velvet drapes to the golden railings, the soft creamy glow, the scented air, the intricate chandeliers—was like walking inside a dream.

Abhimanyu looked at her with amusement.
"You have your whole life to admire this place, baby. But right now, you need rest. You're on your period, and if you don't sleep properly, you'll be a cranky little monster tomorrow."

Shivnya rolled her eyes, ready to argue—but deep down, she knew he was right. So she took a warm, calming bath and changed into cozy, soft loungewear.

But sleep... refused to come.

"I've already slept half the day!" she whined.

So after many pouts, puppy eyes, and gentle persuasion, she finally convinced Abhimanyu to give her a mini-tour.

Hand in hand, they began exploring the wonderland.

Ground Floor:
There was a sprawling garden with exotic plants and fountains and even a small sitting area and the extended forest of his only . The kitchen was modern yet royal. The living room had a cozy bonfire area, a small indoor playroom, and even a private bar.

First Floor:
The balcony led to a heated swimming pool, with a mini garden beside it. A white swing swayed gently in the breeze. The rooms were exquisite, including a luxurious jacuzzi bathtub, high ceilings, golden detailing, and soft lighting that gave it a romantic glow.

But the most magical part?

The Study Room.

As soon as they stepped inside, Shivnya gasped.

It was massive.

A huge library wall full of books from floor to ceiling on one side...
And on the other—sleek gun racks, both large and small weapons displayed like treasures. Hidden panels. A secret underground tunnel entrance.

It was the perfect blend of intellect and danger.
The mind of a king... and the instincts of a mafia lord.

Shivnya stood speechless.
"This looks like something out of a spy movie..."

Abhimanyu smirked. "It's my favorite room too."

After walking so much, Shivnya was done. She yawned and suddenly tugged at his shirt like a sleepy kitten.

"Abhi... I'm tired now. I feel sleepy..."

Abhimanyu looked down at her lovingly and smiled.

"Okay, my jaan. Let's go back to our room. Let me carry you, my little princess."

Without waiting for another word, he scooped her into his arms and carried her back upstairs. Gently placing her on the bed, he tucked her under the soft, warm blankets, brushing her hair back.

He whispered softly before switching off the light,
"Sleep well, my queen. Tomorrow... your fairytale continues.

THE NEXT MORNING

Shivnya stirred under the warm blankets, her hand instinctively reaching toward the other side of the bed—only to find it empty.
She frowned, half-asleep, rubbing her puffy eyes and trying to fight off the stubborn drowsiness. Her hair was messy, sticking in all directions, making her look like a little baby girl just pulled out of dreamland.

The rain outside tapped gently on the windows, and she was about to flop back into the covers when her sleepy gaze caught... something.

Her breath caught in her throat.

Right there, sitting near the bed, staring straight at her with calm brown eyes... was a lion.

A real lion.

He yawned, revealing sharp, lethal teeth, and his tail swished lazily.

Shivnya's heart nearly jumped out of her chest.

"ABHIIIIIIII!" she shrieked.
"Abhiii, come fast or he'll eat me!"

She scrambled backward on the bed like a cornered cat, eyes darting for an escape. But on the other side... a Doberman lay curled up, asleep.

"Great," she muttered under her breath, cursing herself—and mostly Abhimanyu—for whatever insanity this was.

She heard slow, confident footsteps, she knows whose footsteps are these . Relief washed over her—finally!

The door opened to reveal Abhimanyu... followed by Max, who was wheeling in a breakfast trolley. But before she could feel safe, she yelled again, eyes wide:

"Abhiii... these animals!"

Max looked equally horrified and froze at the sight of the lion. But Abhimanyu just gestured for him to leave, and Max wasted no time bolting out.

Abhimanyu stepped further in—and the lion instantly trotted toward him, tail wagging. Without a hint of fear, the beast jumped up, rubbing against him like an oversized cat.

Abhimanyu blinked in mild surprise. "Ohhh... my babies found their way here themselves, huh?"

The Doberman was still snoring away like the world's laziest guard dog.

Shivnya, however, was in full panic mode.
"ABHI! Stay away from him—he'll bite you!"

Abhimanyu just smiled.
"No, he won't. He's my baby."

"What?" Shivnya blinked, baffled.

"Just like you have Amara and Eva," he explained calmly, stroking the lion's mane, "I have these two notorious little ones. They know this is my room. Maybe they heard our voices and came to visit their mumma before me."

Shivnya stared in disbelief. "So... they're your pets?"

"Of course," he said with a smirk, while the lion—Rexy—licked his neck affectionately.

She crept toward the edge of the bed, curiosity warring with fear.
"Can I... touch him?"

"Yeah," Abhimanyu said, holding Rexy's face. "But first—Rexy, behave with your mumma, okay? She's yours to protect now."

The lion glanced at Shivnya, then back at Abhimanyu, before padding toward her. She hesitated, but Abhimanyu crooked a finger.
"Come here. Do you really think Rexy would hurt you when I'm here? Forget Rexy—no one in this world can touch you without my permission."

Her heart melted a little at that.

She quickly ran into his lap, still clinging to his shirt like a child. Rexy sniffed her, memorizing her scent, then licked her hand. She flinched, but relaxed at the warmth of his tongue.

Through all this, the Doberman—Leo—remained asleep, completely unbothered. At just two years old, he was spoiled rotten by Abhimanyu and the staff. But now, hearing voices, he lazily got up... and the moment his eyes landed on his father, he charged forward.

With a happy bark, Leo tried to climb onto Abhimanyu's lap, nudging and licking him non-stop.

Shivnya was caught in the middle of their reunion, so she laughed and slipped off his lap.
"It's okay—he's a little baby. Let him meet his father."

She sat nearby, but Rexy wasn't about to leave her alone. The lion came over, nuzzling into her lap, demanding to be petted. And surprisingly... Shivnya found herself smiling, running her fingers through his mane. She even gave Leo a few head scratches when he came over for his turn.

After a while, Abhimanyu sighed in mock sternness.
"You notorious babies—we'll play later. First, mumma needs to freshen up and have breakfast."

But his royal command meant nothing.

Because now, both Rexy and Leo were glued to Shivnya, loving her gentle touch and refusing to return to their father. Abhimanyu shook his head with a smirk.

It seemed the king had been dethroned—his dangerous babies had a new favorite.

And she was smiling like she'd just won the best crown in the world.

✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:
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