I was actually very pleased when Karthik Sir said that me and Kabir have to behave like strangers. I won't leave this opportunity for anything. Already having him all the time around in house is enough for me. I don't want him or questions related to us loitering around me all the time.

I'm still regretting the last night's events. I don't know what got into me that I blabbed all that to him. Although I felt a little light and relieved after saying all that to him, but the blame as to why I told him regarding anything about past is still scratching the back of my mind. I shouldn't be that comfortable. And I should really maintain a good professional distance between us. After Reyansh fell asleep, the logical thing that should have been done was to get up and leave. But no, I stayed and blurted out all those things. Making everything awkward for me.

"We're here.", His calm voice pulled me out of my own spiraling thoughts.

"I'll go ahead then you can come out. Hmm?", He asked and I nodded. "Have a good day.", He smiled and without waiting for reply, stepped out and walked inside the building along with Karthik.

I dropped my head on the back of the seat and sighed closing my eyes. Instead of thinking about how much he has changed, I should focus on my son's health and wellness.

But I never knew he could cook this delicious. I had tried food made by him the night we did that, but I don't think I paid any attention to the taste. I didn't even eat much that night. Today, however, I enjoyed the scrambled eggs. They always have been my favorite. But because Mom is strictly vegetarian, we very rarely ate any meat related products or delicacies.

"Ma'am, are you not going?", The driver asked and I nodded sitting straight. Slinging my handbag over my shoulder, I stepped out before closing the door shut after me.

I just hope the Advertising team here is used to work in unity and will accept me willingly. I hate dealing with stuck up people.

This office was rather small compared to the main branch. It comprised of only fifteen storeys. Making my way inside, I walked up to the reception area. It is already cold outside and the AC is on its peak in the building.

"Hey!", I called out and the young man looked at me with a charming smile.

"Welcome to the Raichand Group of Industries, how can I help you?", He asked smiling sweetly.

"My joining letter. I'm appointed as an Advertising team head starting today.", I said sliding the envelope on glass counter.

"Oh my bad!", He chuckled before taking the envelope and then typing something on his computer after sparing it a glance.

"You're to meet the HR manager before starting your day. Vanya, my colleague here, will guide you to his office.", He said gesturing to the girl beside him. I've never seen a reception of manufacturing and production industry to be so chivalric and cheery. They should be in hotel.

"This side, Ma'am.", The girl in red saree smiled motioning her hand out.

I took my joining letter back and followed her. She ultimately slowed down to match my steps. "Are employees here always this sweet?", I asked as we entered elevator.

"Dehradun is famous for litchis and mangoes so the people here are sweet too.", She giggled.

"Oh well, the place I come from is famous for pollution. All types of. So beware.", I smirked and she laughed.

"A beautiful lady like you will surely bring damage to many hearts. I'm assured of that.", She shrugged.

"I'm flattered.", I chuckled. "By the way you forgot to press floor number.", I said gesturing to the panel and she face-palmed herself before pushing the number seven.

"Your beauty is indeed working fast.", She said and my eyes widened. "Yup, I'm lesbian.", My smile widened as blush enveloped me. If she thinks I'm beautiful, then I've no problem in accepting that.

"How is working here? I mean, the environment?"

"Everything is nice. Except the HR manager and branch manager.", She scoffed.

"Why?"

"Both are A-grade perverts. Mostly the HR, Vivek Dahiya."

"No one registered any complaint against him?"

"The Branch manager never paid attention. We tried many times, but all in vain. Now that Mr. Raichand himself has decided to take the matter of this branch in his own hands, we're kind of relieved. Hey, isn't it surprising that you and him joined on the same day. What a coincidence!", She snickered at last. I joined her with a smile.

"And I'm meeting the A-GRADE pervert right now?", I mumbled to myself.

"Don't worry. He's a stain to men species but you be badass and don't take his shit seriously. He has a habit of offering promotions and luxuries in exchange of sexual favors. Just ignore and try to get out of his eyesight as soon as possible. And never cross his paths again. That man is very fond of corners!", She spat out.

I nodded.

"We're here!", She said the moment doors opened. "C'mon!", I followed her until she stopped before a door and knocked.

"Come in!"

She opened door and entered inside. I did after her.

"Oh, Vanya! My favorite girl!", He gave an ear splitting grin.

"Morning, sir. This is Rivaah Verma, our new Advertising Team Head.", She introduced me and swiftly his eyes raked down my body. He slowly looked up as he licked his lips.

"Pleasure meeting you, Miss. Verma.", He said in slow voice. I guess he tried to sound sensuous but all I heard in his tone was creepiness.

"Good morning, sir.", I said politely.

"It is a good morning indeed.", He chuckled, his eyes glancing down at my breasts before he smirked and looked away. "You can go, Vanya. I'll guide her from here.", He said and Vanya looked at me, blinking in assurance before walking out. "Please have a seat.", He said to me.

I did and notice his eyes taking a once-over on my body. "Your joining letter?", He asked opening his palm towards me. I placed my letter on his hand.

"I'll quickly punch your joining date here and you'll receive your ID soon.", He said while quickly typing something on keyboard. "Done!", He pressed a key before turning to me with a huge grin. "I'm looking forward to working with you.", He smiled wide forwarding his hand for a shake.

"Same here, Mr. Dahiya.", I said letting my hand glide in his. He left no time in holding it tight and dropping a kiss on the back of my palm. I clenched my other fist to remain calm.

"Please call me, Vivek.", He said as he, as if reluctantly left my hand. I yanked my hand closer and wiped the back of it on my skirt.

"I'll prefer sir instead. Excuse me.", I said as I stood up.

"Miss. Verma?", He called out before I could open the door.

"Yes, Sir?", I asked turning around.

"If you've any problem or need anything, just remember me.", He smiled flirtatiously.

"I'll remember that.", I said before moving out.

The moment I came out, Vanya rushed to me. "Did it go well? Did he try anything?", She asked as I tried to configure the reason of her being here.

"What are you doing here?"

"I was worried.", She smiled sheepishly.

"I'm fine. He didn't try anything extreme. Just flirting here and there.", I shrugged.

"Oh thank God!", She heaved a deep sigh.

We made our way to the elevator and she took me to the floor where I'll be working. "A reminder to you as you're new here, we're summoned in the grand hall within fifteen minutes.", She patted my shoulder before leaving.

Placing my bag on desk, I looked around my new office. It was nice. Spacious and beautiful.

The commotion outside increased and I saw everyone hurrying somewhere. I think I should follow them. Grabbing my bag, I left my office and almost everyone made way for me to walk. "After you ma'am.", A young girl said as she nodded me to take the elevator first. I think they already know that the team head is joining since today.

"We can share.", The group of ten people right away scrambled inside. Rest seven decided to take staircase.

"I heard he's so hot!", A girl giggled and the one standing beside her nudged her hard. Noticing my presence, they shut their mouth.

"He is.", I said grabbing their attention. They gasped and almost everyone laughed. I should show friendliness and make them comfortable around me for smooth work and team unity.

Vanya met me halfway so we decided to head inside together.

The hall was huge, with high ceiling and a beautiful glass chandelier hanging in the center. On the stage stood a man in his fifties, Vanya said that he's branch manager. HR too was beside him. Everyone was waiting for the man of the occasion.

The moment he walked inside followed by Karthik, almost every girl struggled to hold her squeal. I've never seen these many girls swooning over him at once. Even Vanya couldn't snap her eyes away from him. Isn't she lesbian?

"He's so fucking hot! I would do him any day!", She whispered fanning herself.

"I thought you are lesbian?", I questioned sarcastically.

"Oh please, for this kind of men I'm bi!", She giggled softly. I laughed shaking my head.

He cleared his throat on mike catching everyone's attention. It was not needed though. Everyone already had their eyes fixed on him.

"Good morning.", He said and received a loud reply.

"His voice can do wonders to my body!", A girl beside me whispered.

Okay that was too much. My face screwed in disgust and I took few steps away from her.

"This enthusiasm is what I need. I've seen the growth reports and went through statistics, it was good. But now that I'm here, let's make it impressive? Two rules that you need to take into consideration while working under me, I appreciate work that is submitted before deadline. And second, I hate tardiness. So if you want to make it into my good books, dedication and hard work is the only way. I hope I'm clear?", Everyone yelled out 'yes' in unity.

"And-", he suddenly stopped as his eyes met mine. "And- uhm-", it looked as if he forgot that he was about to say.

"Is he looking at me?",

"No, he's definitely looking at me!"

"He seems distracted!"

"And all the best!", He said snapping his eyes away from me and glancing around.

The Branch manager and HR took their rounds to speak one after another. Few minutes later, everyone was dismissed.

"Miss. Verma!", I turned around hearing my name. Mr. Dahiya came running to me.

"Yes, sir?"

"Oh forget the formalities. Do you think we can grab lunch together?", He asked. I fumbled with my words. Damnit! I'm not in the position to reject his offer. From the corner of my eyes, I saw Kabir staring at us.

"It's my first day, sir. I think I should bond with my team. Some other time?", I suggested and he nodded before leaving. Not even word, he just rolled his eyes and left.

I did a small meeting with my team. Department manager was warm and polite towards me. My day went good than I had anticipated.

At the end of the day, Kabir sent me hospital's address and we headed there separately. I hired a cab for myself.

Taila was in the parking lot before us. Reyansh, upon seeing us, ran immediately. He quickly snuggled himself in his father's embrace and pecked me on cheeks.

"How was your day?", Kabir asked him as we made our way inside.

"Me and Murphy played alot! Now I'm tired.", He said gently placing his head on Kabir's shoulder.

"Did you give him his afternoon medicines?", I asked Taila and she nodded with smile.

"We'll eat out today. What do you think?"

"I'm loving it!", He exclaimed bouncing in his father's arms.

"Alright alright! Indian or continental?"

"Continental, duh!", He said in an exaggerated manner.

We laughed.

Kabir handed Reyansh back to Taila, much to his resistance and we met the doctor.

"When is your next appointment with gynaec?", Mr. Reddy, the cancer specialist of this hospital that will be looking after Reyansh's case from today asked me.

"My gynaec- uhm-"

"You don't have one?", He asked in disbelief.

"I had one when I was pregnant with Reyansh. But she lives in the town area. It is quite far away from here."

"Oh. But I prefer you go to her this time too. She knows your body well than the new gynaec can.", He said and I nodded.

"I've seen his reports and his health is stable for now. With the help of medicines and frequent doses, we'll keep the growth of cancer at minimum. Just keep him happy and try not to exert him much.", He said and Kabir sighed with a nod. I noticed his hands were shaking.

I can understand his situation. It's his first time meeting a doctor as Reyansh's father.

After the small meeting, he took us to some Italian restaurant and we had dinner. Taila was reluctant to join us at first, but when Kabir glared, she was first to scurry inside.

The next day routine repeated. "Don't go anywhere out and take care of each other.", I warned both him and Murphy. They both nodded. Kissing both of them on head, I headed out with Kabir. He dropped me at the beginning of the street and then drove further inside.

"Miss. Verma!", I resisted the urge to scream profanities at him.

"Good morning, Mr. Dahiya.", I turned to face him with a forced smiled.

"It doesn't suit a lady like you to walk on the streets. C'mon, get inside.", He said opening the door to his car.

"No it's fine, sir. It's just a minute walk from here.", I shrugged as I stepped back.

"Please, Miss. Verma. I insist. C'mon!", He almost begged. Grunting in low voice, I flashed him a tight lipped smiled and got inside.

Not a minute later, we drove inside underground parking lot.

"I didn't know this building has underground parking to itself.", I mumbled to myself.

"Oh you don't know a lot things, Miss. Verma.", He chuckled.

"What do you mean?", I frowned.

He parked at a free spot and turned off engine. "I mean, there are many things here that you don't know about."

The parking lot was empty, with only cars and cars everywhere. And this man was giving me weird creepy feelings.

"We should head inside now."

"Why the hurry, Rivaah?", I gasped as he grabbed my wrist.

"Okay! Enough, Mr. Dahiya.", I said yanking my hand and shifting on my seat to open the door. It was locked.

He slapped my butt and that's when I lost my calm. "How fucking dare you!?", I shouted as I slapped him, on cheek.

He grabbed my wrist and pulled me towards him. "Leave me you pervert!", I said struggling to escape his animal like grip.

"You like it rough huh?"

A sudden knock on his side of window froze him and I took my chance to scramble away.

I heaved a deep sigh when I saw Kabir.

He immediately opened door and got out. Using the opportunity, I too stepped out.

When Kabir's eyes met mine, I knew at that instant that he was ready to kill.

"What was going on!?", He asked breathlessly.

"Sir, she was trying to offer me sexual favors. For promotion! Can you believe it!?", A wave of shock went through my body as I coiled back in disgust. I know Kabir will believe him. He had always believed I was a cheater. For him I was always a whore. A slut!

"For promotion?", Kabir asked raising his brow.

"Yes, sir.", The HR nodded. "But don't worry, I showed her, her place. She'll be fired before you know it. We don't need slut like her-", his body rolled down on floor as Kabir punched him right on his face.

Kabir crouched down on his knees, grabbing Vivek by his collar and yanking him up. "Slut!?"

"Ye-Yes.", Vivek nodded fearfully.

"She needs you for promotion?", Kabir asked menacingly in a low and dark voice.

"She sa-said so."

Kabir chuckled humorlessly. "Enlighten me why would she need a scum like you, when she has me on my knees!?", He growled.

Vivek gasped.

My eyes widened at his statement.

"Wh-What do you mean, sir?", Blood was dripping down his chin.

"She's my wife, you bastard. She's mother to my children. And I'm crazy for her!", Kabir gritted out, his hold around the collar tightened as I saw Vivek choking. "Then why the hell would she need a mere HR manager like you to climb up on the ladder of success when she's already fucking above you!?", He shouted before getting up and kicking him in ribs. I closed my eyes shut at the sound of painful groans.

"Sir, calm down. We don't want to attract attention.", I heard Karthik's voice and opened my eyes.

"Take him away and throw him out. I don't want him anywhere near office premises!", Kabir barked out.

"I'll do that, sir.", Karthik mumbled. With the help of guards, they took him out.

His eyes snapped to mine and he strode towards me. His hand curled around my nape, pulling me closer to his chest. I stayed immobile.

"Did he touch you anywhere? Did he do anything?", He asked as he pulled apart and examined me. His forehead ceased with worry lines.

I shook my head.

"Okay.", He breathed out. "Go inside and get to work. If anything like this happens, just inform me or Karthik, okay?"

"I- I don't need your help. I can help myself very well.", I mumbled.

He sighed. "I know. But we don't want to take any risk. I know you're very capable of protecting yourself, but this is not only about you. This is about the baby too. Okay?", I nodded. "Good. Go now.", He said as he pushed my hair back and gestured me to head inside.

I nodded wordlessly before grabbing my bag from the car and manoeuvring towards elevator.

I couldn't help but notice the weird fluttering feeling that erupted inside me.

_______