Chapter 2 — Dangerous Curiosity

Veeresh’s eyes remained fixed on Poornima as she lazily swirled the drink in her glass. The lights of the club reflected against her black gown, making her look untouchable, dangerous in her own way.

A slow smile appeared on his face before he turned toward his partners.

“I want Rathore Industries’ shares,” he said calmly.

The men exchanged glances immediately.

“That won’t be easy,” one of them muttered carefully. “The Rathores are influential—”

Veeresh looked at him once.

That was enough to silence him.

“It wasn’t a discussion.”

“Yes, boss.”

Without another word, Veeresh stood from the couch and walked through the crowded club floor. People instinctively moved aside for him, though they didn’t know why. Power had its own aura.

Poornima noticed him approaching and leaned back against the bar counter casually.

“What brings you here, Salvatore?” she asked smoothly.

For the first time in years, Veeresh paused.

Not because of fear.

Because she knew.

Nobody outside his inner circle knew the name Salvatore. To the world, he was only Veeresh Dreewan — businessman, investor, untouchable billionaire.

Yet she spoke the name like a secret she had always owned.

Veeresh’s lips curved faintly. “Trying to take control of Rathore Industries, Poornima.”

Instead of anger, she laughed softly.

Bold woman.

Dangerously bold.

Before he could say another word, Poornima suddenly grabbed the collar of his suit and pulled him closer. The scent of wine and jasmine surrounded him instantly.

Her eyes locked onto his.

“Are you a virgin?” she asked bluntly.

For the first time that night, Veeresh genuinely looked surprised.

Then he laughed.

A low, dangerous laugh that sent chills through the people nearby.

“You ask strange questions.”

“And you avoid answers,” she replied smoothly.

Veeresh leaned closer, his face inches from hers now. “Careful, Poornima. Curious women usually end up in trouble around men like me.”

Poornima’s grip on his collar tightened slightly.

“Who said I’m scared of trouble, Salvatore?”