Chapter 70: Hidden Truth
Zamian was caught off guard by Mira’s response. He stilled for a moment, processing her anger, then mirrored her annoyance. "Why would you do that? Do you know how scared I was?" From the look in her eyes, he could tell that she had genuinely been frightened. He hadn’t expected her to react that way; if he had, he might not have played his little joke. Yet, despite his initial concern, he found her reaction oddly cute. It was surprising to him that Mira could be scared to that extent.
He fell silent, unsure of how to navigate the moment. After a pause, Mira broke the tension. "Where have you been? I haven’t seen you since the movie," she asked, her tone softened but still laced with curiosity. Deep down, she wondered if it was her place to ask such questions, considering their contract marriage. Would it be appropriate to seek answers about his whereabouts, or would it only complicate things further between them? She had been scared to death, fearing Zamian might have postponed the wedding since she hadn’t seen him for what felt like an eternity.
Zamian finally replied, "I traveled abroad for an important business meeting." Mira nodded, processing his words. Although a flicker of disappointment crossed her face, she had hoped for a chance to connect more deeply with him, especially after the events leading up to their wedding.
"Come here," he said, his voice both daring and commanding.
Mira hesitated for a moment, looking into his eyes as if seeking reassurance. His gaze was calm, almost inviting, and it melted away some of her apprehensions. Finally, she moved closer to him. Zamian wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close in a protective manner.
"I won’t scare you again unless it’s necessary," he promised, his tone playful yet serious.
Mira raised her head, glaring at him.
He winked at her, the corners of his mouth lifting into a teasing smile. In that moment, the warmth of their connection began to dissolve the tension. She could feel his heartbeat against her, a steady rhythm that calmed her racing thoughts. Zamian’s presence was a comforting constant in her life, and despite the scare, she found solace in being near him.
"Did you miss me?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.
"N—no, I d—did not," she stammered, her words tripping over themselves. The truth was, she had missed him more than she wanted to admit.
"You know lying is not your calling," he teased, playfully pointing at her perfect nose. "Look, your nose is growing."