Chapter 14: Arnav
Arnav untangled his fingers from Khushi's to pick up the ball, passing it to Aarav so he could take a shot. Aarav, already quite talented at basketball, was getting better every day. He could see a bright future for Aarav if he continued his efforts.
They tried a few more shots, Arnav lifting Aarav up to the hoop occasionally - not because Aarav needed it, but because he needed contact with his son. Khushi stood back, still struggling to catch her breath. Arnav grinned.
"Aarav, maybe Mom needs more practice, what do you think?"
"Yes! We should help her be the best player she can. I can help."
Aarav went to Khushi, quickly hugging her to let her know he didn't mean offence before handing her the ball. She took it from him, kissing his hair and making him scowl, and lined up a shot again. Arnav caught the ball after another spectacular miss.
"Khushi, maybe you'll do better if you don't aim for the hoop," he suggested, earning a glare that made him want to do unspeakable things to her.
"Here, I'll show you again. Aarav, will you run down and check if dinner is ready? I'm really hungry."
"Okay, Dad."
When they were alone, Arnav turned her around and pulled her to him, her back against his chest. He put the ball in her hands again, running his fingers up her arms. He swept her hair over her shoulder, and when she tried to get away, held her against him with an arm around her waist. He kissed a line from her shoulder to her neck, enjoying the way she weakened and leaned into him, tilting her head to give him access. She whimpered when his teeth grazed her earlobe gently, and he knew he'd won. Pressing a soft kiss to her cheek, he let her go.
"I'm hungry. Let's go eat."