Sahdharmini - My Better Half

G-g-gun?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead, her knees going weak. He watched her closely, examining every reaction. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. He liked it. No—he loved it when people were scared of him. "It's final. You are marrying me." he declared, his voice like steel. "And when you go downstairs, you will say yes." His words were commanding, leaving no room for argument. Satakshi, barely able to think straight, instinctively nodded. And then, realization struck her. She mentally slapped herself. No! What am I doing?! Snapping out of her daze, she stammered, "N-no, I will n—" But before she could finish, he slid the gun from her chin and pressed it lightly against her throat. Her breath hitched. "My mom is my everything," he said, his voice softer but no less dangerous. "She loves you and wants you to be her daughter-in-law. I have no interest in marrying you either. But YOU ARE GOING TO BE MY WIFE. THAT'S IT. His black eyes bore into hers. "This is the first time my mother has asked me for something, and I will fulfill her wish at any cost." Satakshi gasped for breath, trying to process his words. She opened her mouth to protest. "You can't force me into this marr—" He cut her off, pressing the gun little harder against her throat this time. His next words sent ice through her veins. "The choice is yours. Marry me... or die."