The mansion was quiet again.
But the tension from Viktor's visit still hung in the air.
Inside the study room, Aryan Malhotra stood near the window, deep in thought.
Behind him, Anaya Sen was pacing nervously.
"So everything was a lie?" she asked angrily.
"My father… the kidnapping… everything?"
Aryan turned slowly.
"I never lied."
"You just didn't tell the truth," she replied sharply.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
Then Aryan walked toward the table and placed the same document in front of her again.
The marriage contract.
Anaya stared at it.
"You're still serious about this?"
Aryan nodded once.
"More than ever."
"Why?" she asked.
Aryan's voice became calm but firm.
"Because Viktor will attack again."
"And the only way to protect you is to make the world know you belong to me."
Anaya frowned.
"I don't belong to anyone."
Aryan stepped closer.
"You will… if you want to stay alive."
She looked at him with frustration.
"You're impossible."
Aryan didn't argue.
Instead, he said quietly,
"This isn't just about protection anymore."
Anaya looked confused.
"What do you mean?"
Aryan's voice lowered slightly.
"The moment Viktor publicly declared you his target… you became part of my war."
"And in my world," he continued,
"enemies don't stop until they destroy everything."
Silence filled the room again.
Anaya looked at the contract.
Her mind was full of questions.
But one thing was clear—
Without Aryan, she would not survive this war.
Slowly, she picked up the pen.
Aryan watched her carefully.
"Once you sign this," he said quietly,
"there is no turning back."
Anaya looked at him one last time.
"Then promise me something."
Aryan raised an eyebrow.
"What?"
Her voice became serious.
"If I'm entering your dangerous world…"
"You will tell me the truth from now on."
Aryan looked into her eyes.
After a moment, he nodded.
"Deal."
Anaya took a deep breath.
Then—
She signed the paper.
Aryan Malhotra's lips curved into a faint smile.
"Congratulations," he said calmly.
"Mrs. Malhotra."
Anaya sighed.
"I can't believe I just married a mafia boss."
Aryan leaned closer and whispered,
"You married the most dangerous one."