18+

minors stay away

 (italics are introspection) 

Chapter One

"No, no, no! This can't be happening to me. Not now," I whispered to myself as tears overcrowd my pitiful face.

I was in so much trouble.

No scratch that, I was in deep shit. I was so low under the ground that I'd probably never see the sun ever again. My life was officially over.

I took a deep breath to stop myself from driving into another panic attack.

How many times have I had those in the last couple of weeks? Five, six, seven times?

I sighed and continued breathing, slowly calming down.

I threw away the box, removing it as far as possible from sight, hoping to forever forget the problem.

Well, you can't exactly run away from something like this. Pretty soon everyone will know, not just you.

I walked to my bedroom and got dressed. I still had to go to work, no matter how much I dreaded it.

Why did I have to work for him? Why did I have to work for the most arrogant asshole in the whole universe? Why did I have to work for Kabir Mittal?

Oh right, because I was a fresh out of college graduate with a desperate need of a job.

I wouldn't have a problem with Kabir Mittal, not at all, if it weren't a small little detail that I couldn't ignore.

Sleeping with him. Correction, having four mind blowing orgasms in one night.

Talk about stamina. The man was a sex monster. He didn't have limits. I bet the word limit wasn't even in his vocabulary. He just didn't stop. He kept on going until I finally passed out, completely out of the world.

No doubt he would have continued if I was still awake.

He managed to sober me up after drinking who knows how many cups with the most intense orgasm. No man had ever managed to do that before.

Since when did you sleep with any man before Kabir?

Oh right, I was a virgin.

Yes, did I forget to mention that?

I lost my virginity to a man whore who couldn't keep his hands to himself.

Not to mention, we were drunk, our hormones running wild with the need of sexual release.

I didn't mean for that to happen. I really didn't.

I usually don't go to night clubs unless I am physically forced to, in which case I was all but dragged to.

I could not find myself enjoying blasting music that made your ears bleed and sweaty bodies dry humping each other on the dance floor. No, that wasn't what I called fun.

But no, Ishani just had to break up with her boyfriend on a Friday night and party her ass off so she could get over him. And he just had to end up in that club, out of the hundreds of night clubs here.

She wasn't even into him. What a stupid excuse.

I swear, sometimes I questioned myself on my choice of friends.

I sighed, scowling at the mirror. I looked like shit.

Well considering you just found out you are pregnant after a one night stand with your hot, arrogant millionaire boss, you shouldn't look any better than this.

Did I mention that I loathed my mind?

I was 21, broke, and pregnant. How fan-fucking-tastic.

Xxx

My desk was screaming at me.

I know your secret!

The office was too quiet, almost as if people knew what I was hiding. Unconsciously, I looked around and wrapped my jacket closer to my body.

You're such a paranoid freak.

I walked, quickly but cautiously, sighing in relief when I reached my work area without any problems.

Congratulations. Should I hand you a medal?

"Pooja, Mr. Mittal wants you in his office right now." I almost jumped from my seat, hearing both my name and Kabir' name called in the same sentence.

I took a deep breath and nodded at the Rani. She smiled and turned away, busying herself with her work.

I stood up and took a deep breath. I had nothing to worry about. He knew nothing. It had been over a month since that night. If he knew something then he would have told me.

He probably wanted coffee, yeah that's exactly that. He wanted coffee.

You need help. You're a complete mess.

His door was half open, revealing his expensive suit and amazing figure. His face was buried in documents, unaware that I was standing near his door.

Without a second though, I softly knocked on his door.

He looked up, annoyance cross features before his eyes landed on mine, the irritation in his eyes quickly dissolving into a smile.

I inwardly did a happy dance in my head, earning a frown of disapproval from my mind. I was safe.

"Pooja, thank god you're here," Kabir announced, motioning me to come in with a wave of his hand.

"I've got tons of applications that I need help with. Can you take some and fill them out?" he asked, shooting me one of his breathtaking smiles.

Deep breaths Pooja, deep breaths. Didn't you already have enough? You're already in trouble as it is.

I smiled, nodding my head. "Sure, which ones do you want me to take?"

He sighed in relief. "You're a lifesaver, you know that, right?" he asked, releasing a deep chuckle that sent shivers to my spine.

I attempted a smile, thanking God he didn't notice how much of a nervous wreck I was.

He handed me a pack of papers and explained what I needed to do.

I was glad that I had some sort of distraction. Anything was better than thinking about him or my current problem.

I turned the knob to close the door after me, but stopped when I heard my name being called.

"Yes, Mr. Mittal." My smile was slipping off. Another second and I'd collapse.

"Thank you for being the best assistant in the world. I don't know what I'd do without you," he smiled at me, one of those charming drop to your knees smile.

I grinned, a lump forming in my throat.

"I know," I whispered as always, closing the door behind me.

I was his assistant. Nothing else, nothing more.

It still hurt to hear it from him though, especially because I was carrying a piece of him that he'd probably never find out about.

Warning -18+

Chapter Two

Kabir Mittal was a 26 year old famous business man. He had graduated from NYU with flying colours and took over his father's company the minute he stepped out of university.

His reputation though, unlike his brain, was down the drain. He was known for dating famous models, sleeping with them and then harshly dumping them. He never mixed business with pleasure, yet he did not hesitate to flirt with every single woman in his floor.

He was arrogant, didn't take no as an answer, and was the biggest asshole in the planet. He switched employees in a faster pace than changing his clothes. He was scary when he worked, and never, ever had he lost a business deal.

That's what I was told when I first landed the job of a personal assistant to Kabir Mittal. The rest I read in the tabloids, magazines, and of course, the internet.

It was safe to say that Kabir was a playboy with an attitude. And my situation was just made everything worse.

You shouldn't have drunk all those shots. Whose fault was that?

Since I was his PA, he didn't act like an asshole to me, a pleasant surprise that I still took advantage of. We had a good business relationship since the beginning.

Of course, you have absolutely no sex appeal, that's why you were still a virgin until almost two months ago.

I couldn't argue with that. My wardrobe contained strict business attire only. My skirts were always below my knees, my blouses buttoned up to reveal nothing but my neckline, and my shoes more comfortable than pretty.

Yes I was boring, but it saved me from getting fired or quitting. I had no intention of having an affair, no matter how drop dead gorgeous the other party was.

Pft...don't make me laugh. Who would want to have an affair with you?

I contemplated shooting my mind, but seeing that my mind was really me, I couldn't really do that.

It was comfortable this way. He ordered me to send flowers to his models every once in a while, and he continued to screw new ones, adding more to what I called 'the flower list'.

This was why I was freaking out. That one night stand was a drunken mistake, something that none of us wanted or intended to happen. I remembered how happy I was when he seemed to remember nothing, coming back to work the next day as if nothing had happened.

I sighed as I quietly worked on the documents that were given to me. I hated thinking about him, hated to think about all the women he had been with prior and after sleeping with me. I knew that this crush of mine was unhealthy especially with this unplanned pregnancy.

I was 21 for God's sake! How was I supposed to raise a baby all on my own? My parents wouldn't hesitate to disown me if they'd find out my baby was fatherless. My friends would look at me with pity and Kabir would give me a look of disgust and fire me without a second thought.

Why did my life suck so much?

You don't want me to answer that, do you?

Xxx

You're so beautiful," he murmured to her ear, causing a shiver to run down her spine.

She laughed, "You're just saying that to get me naked," she said, disbelief in her eyes.

He shook his head. "You don't see yourself clearly. You've got yourself a lineup of men at your feet, waiting for you to go with them."

"Except I am already with someone," she answered proudly, as if it was the smartest thing.

"Yes, you're already taken, and you aren't going anywhere," he whispered deeply into her ear, tickling her in the process.

Before she could respond any further, he crushed his lips with hers, sliding his tongue into her mouth, swirling it with hers. Her hands found a way around his neck, pulling him closer to her, closing the proximity between them. He held onto her face, deepening their already passionate kiss, earning a deep moan from her.

She sighed in pleasure, almost collapsing into the floor if it weren't for his hands supporting her slim waist.

He continued as his lips meshed with hers, fighting for dominance. He devoured her mouth, running his tongue all over her mouth and lips. Only when they were completely out of breath, did they stop, before quickly continuing, kissing each other with absolute passion.

"I want you," he spoke softly into her ear. He licked her neck, before sucking on her pulse point, earning him another gasp of desire from her.

"Then have me," she responded, breathing hard and unsteadily.

He groaned at her answer, proceeding to take off her skirt. With a flicker of his wrist, he unclasped her bra, revealing her nude breasts.

"Perfect," he muttered, before quickly letting his fingers run over the hardening nipples.

She shuddered at his touch, moaning as he ran his fingers over her sensitive breasts.

"That's no fair. You're not even close to being naked as I am," she pouted, running her hands over his hard chest. Without a warning, she ripped his expensive shirt off his chest, revealing his strong six pack. She ran her shaky hands over his abdomen, eyes glistening in excitement, causing him to chuckle at her reactions

He dipped his head and kissed her, biting her lower lip, causing her to gasp. He didn't hesitate pushing his tongue inside, once again, ravishing her hot and wet mouth.

The rest of their clothes were easily discarded on the floor as they both pushed themselves to the large sized bed.

Their hands roamed over each other's bodies, the burning heat between them only increasing as their kisses grew more heavy and forceful.

She arched her back as she felt his hands on her breasts once again, groaning as he played and licked each one, giving them the attention they deserved.

His hands continued to travel south, his fingers running through her hard but flat stomach, before finding their way to her nether region that was burning with heat at every single touch that he had given her.

"Please," she pleaded, closing her eyes in desperate need.

He all but complied, inserting a finger into her already wet and hot pussy. She cried out as his cool fingers began to pound in out of her, bringing her to a level of pleasure she had never experienced.

When he felt that she was ready for him and when she was almost close to an orgasm he stopped, earning him a surprised glare from the woman.

"Why did you stop?" she asked, rubbing herself against his skin for some kind of a release.

"Because, I want you to cum with me inside of you," He smirked as she blushed at his words.

He chuckled and kissed her again, this time leaving light kisses all over face.

Without a second thought, he dived into her, breaking the barrier he didn't know was there.

"You're a virgin?" he asked, surprise written all over his face.

She nodded, and hissed in pain. "Yes."

"I'm sorry, I didn't know," he said apologetically. He leaned in and licked her earlobe, whispering soothing words into her ear, calming her down and easing the pain.

Once the discomfort was gone she bucked her hips against his, letting him know that it was ok to move. "I'm okay now," she encouraged.

He nodded and began to push in and out of her, slowly at first so she could adjust to his size.

"Faster, harder," she uttered out from frustration as she neared her release.

He groaned in response and complied, almost losing control.

"You're so fucking tight," he whispered into her ear.

She moaned, arching her back, giving him a view of her beautifully stretched figure.

"You're driving me crazy," He continued saying as he slammed into her, tightening his grasp on her hips.

Their ritual continued and before long, their screams of pleasure overtook the room, bringing each other to the release they had long waited for.

She had failed to hear him whisper in her ear, words that might have reassured her, before she fell into exhausting sleep.

"I love you, Pooja," his quiet murmur dissolved into the air as he felt his eyes close. He pulled the woman's petit body closer to him and wrapped his arms around her, securing her with his warm body.

It was too bad she didn't hear him. It was too bad she left before she heard his explanation the next morning. It was too bad she chose to forget the night instead of savouring it like any other woman would.

Misunderstandings- Chapter 3

"Oh my God, Pooja," Kavya gasped in shock

"Promise you won't tell," I begged her.

"How can you be pregnant? I was gone for three months and you decide to sleep around?"

"No!" I shook my head, my eyes widening. "That's not what happened at all."

"You've never had sex, Pooja."

"I know, Kavya, I know," I whispered. "It was an accident."

"How can something like this be an accident? You can't just sleep with someone by accident," she frowned disbelievingly.

"I was drunk, ok? I didn't even know I had sex with him until the morning after," I said defensively.

Kavya sighed as she looked at my expression and her gaze slightly softened. "Who is the father?" she asked the million dollar question.

I looked away from her in shame. "Kabir," I mumbled a reply, waiting for her reaction.

"You slept with your boss?" she all but yelled out.

"Shhhh. Can you please stop screaming? We're in a public bathroom." My eyes darted from left to right, making sure no-one heard us.

"Pooja, have you gone insane? How the hell did you end up in your boss' bed?" she whispered loudly, her eyes glazed in pure and utter shock.

I shrugged my shoulders guiltily and sighed. "Ishani broke up with Jay on a Friday night so she took me with her. Apparently he was there too so we ended up drinking our heads off and sleeping with each other in one of those VIP rooms," I explained.

"You're such an idiot! What did I tell you about your alcohol tolerance?"

"I know that already!" I whispered angrily. "I was mad at Ishani for taking me out in the first place and on top of that I was almost manhandled by some drunk, old dude, so sue me, ok!"

"Calm down, Pooja. I didn't mean it to sound like you were at fault," Kavya said apologetically. "Did you tell him?"

"And you're calling me insane?" I raised my eyebrows at her. "I'll bury myself before I say anything to him."

"But it wasn't just your fault. You can't make a baby using one person, Pooja. He's just as responsible as you are," Kavya reasoned while I glared her.

"He's a man whore, Kavya. Or did you forget how many models he had slept with in the past month?" I reminded her, rolling my eyes.

"How do you know he's a man whore Pooja? Have you ever seen him making out with the models in his office?"

"No, but that's only because I know better than to interrupt him while he's with them."

"Do his women ever come out with swollen lips, unbuttoned shirts and messy hair?" she continued. That the hell, was she an expert or something?

Shows just how much you don't know your own best friend. Shame on you.

I shook my head and replied, "No, but they are models, Kavya. They clean up well."

"You're impossible, you know that?" she muttered. "You can't just make assumptions that are based off gossip magazines, Pooja. He's a celebrity, he's bound to be surrounded by rumours." she scolded me, turning her head to the mirror.

"Why are you defending him so much? I thought you were my best friend?" I crossed my hands over my chest and glared at her. She was being such a bitch.

"I'm not defending him. All I am trying to do is to show you that he might not be as bad as you make him to be," she said, reapplying her makeup. "Did you ever ask him anything about that night?"

"No, I tried to avoid it as much as possible. I don't want to get fired Kavya. I'm already broke as it is."

"He's not going to fire you. You've been working for him for over two years. Unless he has been complaining about you, he will never fire you, even if you're all pregnant and wobbly."

I laughed for the first time since our conversation, imagining what the scene would look like. I was dreading getting fat but if it was for this baby, every single pound gained was worth it.

"So will you tell him?" Kavya pressed, looking at me hopefully.

"No, I'll just continue ignoring him and then quit when it hurts to walk."

"What will you say when he asks you about the father?"

I shrugged and pursed my lips. "I'll just tell him that it's none of this business."

Kavya gave me a doubtful look.

"Fine, I'll tell him that he doesn't know the guy and that we're going to marry in the summer."

"Splendid, Pooja, Splendid. Your stories will make you famous one day." she replied sarcastically. "Even Ishani wouldn't believe that. Besides, everyone knows that you've been single for forever. Do you really think anyone will believe that sad little lie of yours?"

"You're such a party pooper. Why do you always have to look at the bad side?" I asked in frustration.

"I'm being realistic, not looking at the bad side. You won't be able to avoid him forever. He'll remember what he did eventually. He always does."

"How do you know that?" I narrowed my eyes.

For a second I saw a look of panic crossing Kavya's flawless face, but the second it appeared, it disappeared as if nothing was there in the first place. Instead, she rolled her eyes at me expectantly. "They all do, Pooja. In the end they are bound to have some sort of flashback."

"It's been over a month. If he was 'bound to have a flashback', as you say, then he would have confronted me about it."

"How do you know he's not afraid to or maybe even embarrassed? He's your employer, he has to keep an image," Kavya tinted her head to the side, and looked at me challengingly.

"Ok, you know what?" I sigh, "Let's just change the subject. We're not getting anywhere, and I have to go, or else I'll probably have to quit earlier than anticipated."

I kissed Kavya's cheek and without another word, I left the bathroom, ignoring Kavya's loud protests.

Xxx

My apartment was a mess when I stepped into it after work.

Ishani, it seemed, had too much fun.

Move out! Kavya is back anyway. Ishani is just going to continue ruining your life.

I admit that mind at time was a bit too blunt, but right now, it was right.

"Ishani," I called out, stepping into the kitchen that had a mountain of dishes in the sink.

"I'm in the Bathroom!" Ishani screamed as if I was deaf.

I sighed and began to throw out all the plastic bottles into the garbage.

"What's up?" I jumped from surprise causing Ishani to laugh at my reaction.

"What did we say about having parties during the weekdays?" I asked her expectantly, pointing to all the mess that was on the table.

Ishani rolled her eyes in response and giggled. "You sound like my mom, Pooja."

I ignored her insult but she didn't seem to get the point "I just had a couple of people over. We didn't even do much," she shrugged her shoulders in a defensive manner.

"I don't know what 'a couple of people' are in your book, Ishani, but we had an agreement."

Ishani shot me an annoyed look, an angry frown appearing on her face. "Then why don't you just move out?" she drawled out.

My eyes widened at her words and I turned around to the sink full of disgusting dishes, my dishes. Pointedly, I scowled at her. "If you don't remember, I was the one who agreed to share this apartment with you, so if someone has to move out, it's going to be you, not me," I stated firmly, daring her to say something back.

"You can't just kick me out!" she all but shouted, "I pay half the rent!"

"I didn't say I am kicking you out, but don't threaten me with something that does not even belong to you, Ishani. It's rude."

Ishani groaned in response and turned away to the direction of her room.

"Where are you going?"

"Sleep," she yelled.

"The place is a mess, and you're going to sleep? What the hell, Ishani? Come back!" I demanded angrily. She was being so ridiculously snobby.

You should have known that before saying yes to her offer, idiot.

"I'm tired right now. I'll do it when I wake up from my nap."

The nerve of that woman! I couldn't believe this was happening to me. Not only was my life a mess, but even my own home was like a stranger to me. What the hell was happening to me?

I sighed in frustration and walked back to the main door. I slipped on my shoes and stepped out of the apartment, slamming the door behind me.

I was living with a monster.

Who, quite frankly, was the one who got me into this mess in the first place.

I found myself heading back to my work building, my legs having a mind of their own.

People eagerly leave work and you go back to it even after it's finished. You're so pathetic.

It saddened me that it was indeed true. I've become a true workaholic.

But at least when I was surrounded by documents I didn't have to think of Kabir or the baby that seemed to be growing each day. The only downside to all of this was that I was physically in the same room with him, which was a bit nerve wracking at times.

The building was empty when I walked in through the doors. Even the security guard seemed to have disappeared, probably also somewhere at home with his family.

You're a mess. A sad, crazy mess

I sighed miserably as I took the elevator to the highest floor, angry for not having a social life.

You could have called Kavya and asked to meet up. Admit it, you're here only because you're hoping you'd catch a glimpse of him one last time before going home.

I shook my head violently, trying to clear my thoughts. I breathed out in relief when the elevator doors opened, revealing my organized work area.

I sat down, and leaned back into my chair, relaxing at the soothing silence.

"Pooja?"

I snapped my eyes open only to meet brown ones who looked at me in surprise. "What are you doing here so late?" Kabir asked me.

I didn't answer him. Partly because I was shocked that he was even in the building so late, but also because he looked too damn sexy to look away from.

His tie was loosened, completely, revealing his long tanned neck. His first three buttons were undone, and I could see his chiselled chest that brought too many memories of that night. His hair, his hair was absolutely all over the place, bringing the term 'dishevelled' to a whole new level. And the best thing, the best thing were his eyes. They were dark, almost like emerald pools, drowning you into him. They were addicting, he was addicting.

"Pooja?" I heard him say my name with concern.

I shook my head again and focused my eyes. "I-I just...couldn't go home," I stuttered out," looking away from his burning gaze.

"Is everything ok?" he asked, coming closer to me. I could feel the worry in his tone and his expression.

I nodded at him, "yeah, just having roommate problems, you know?" I tried to laugh but instead it came out almost as a sob. I wondered if it was the hormones kicking in. Wasn't it too early for that? Would I always be this unnecessarily emotional?

I didn't understand why I was telling this to my boss, especially after what happened.

"No, I don't actually," he responded, cracking a smile. "I've never had one."

I snorted. "Good, don't even think about getting one," I told him, grinning back.

"Do you always stay this late?" I asked carefully. Was it too personal to ask something like this?

"That depends. The earliest is six," he replied, not bothered by my question. Kabir was like that, he never made me feel uncomfortable, and I was thankful for that.

"That's late," I commented. "I thought that I left late," I laughed. "I guess I was wrong." And I guess I also kind of misjudged him. I wondered what his latest was. Was it 7, 8, 9? I was too curious for my own good. I wondered is those bags under his eyes that I took notice only now were because he stayed up late actually working.

Maybe Kavya was right. Maybe I should tell him.

Kabir chuckled, interrupting me from my thoughts. "If I work a 9-5 job, this company will be at the edge of bankruptcy," he explained. "You've got to do what you've to do."

No, I couldn't tell him. I didn't have the guts yet. I wanted this moment to last, I'd cherish every single minute if had to.

"So are you ok now?" I heard him question, as he slowly bent to my level. Considering my 5'3 and his 5'10 there was a big difference between us.

"Yeah," I said blushing at our close proximity.

"Good," he nodded, grinning. "Let me take you home. It's gotten dark and correct me if I'm wrong, you do not have a car, right?" he asked, a smirk forming in his lips.

"You don't have to. I live really close by," I protested. Even a two minute ride with Kabir would make a difference. I'd open my big, fat mouth and tell him I'm pregnant and it will never be the same.

"Trust me, it'll make me feel better if I drive you home. Who knows about the people in the streets these days..." he trailed off, a frown replacing his smirk.

This wasn't good. Absolutely no good. "No really, I am fine. I need some fresh air anyway," I tried to reason, attempting a smile.

"You don't look fine, Pooja," Kabir disagreed, "Besides, I owe, remember?" he shot me one of his drop to your knees smiles, and I knew I couldn't say no.

"I'll just go take my things and then we can leave," Kabir informed as if he already knew. It annoyed me that he knew these little things about me, but in turn, I was completely clueless about him. I was his personal assistant, it was me who was supposed to be like that, not him.

I sighed as I grabbed my things and waited for him. I was so damn nervous that I could feel another panic attack forming in my body. When my head began to spin I knew I was in trouble.

You're such a weakling. Get a hold of yourself.

"Pooja, I'm hear- hey are you ok?"

"Yes, I just had a headache for a second there. I'm fine now," I dismissed him, ignoring my throbbing head.

He didn't look convinced but said nothing. We began walking to the elevators, but before I could step inside, I accidentally stumbled almost collapsing on the floor. I was fortunate enough to have Kabir' hands holding onto me, saving me from an unnecessary fall.

"Thank you," I breathed out. My head continued to spin, and my vision blurred, but I ignored it and smiled. "You totally saved me."

He grinned but it didn't reach his eyes. "Are you sure you're ok?"

I closed my eyes and nodded, "Yeah, don't worry about it."

He didn't say anything. Instead, he continued to hold me against him, gently steadying me so I wouldn't fall again.

When we finally reached the car, I was seeing triples. I somehow managed to slide into his car and close the door without breaking anything.

Kabir' driving was calming, and I could feel myself slipping into unconsciousness.

Stay awake. Remember what happened last time you feel asleep in this state?

My mind screamed and I focused my eyes on the road; just a little more.

The car came into a sudden halt and I realized that we've reached my apartment complex. "Thanks for the ride, Mr. Mittal," I said to him, smiling against my exploding head.

"Anytime," he grinned back, but again, it didn't reach his eyes. "Will you be ok by yourself?"

I nodded and opened the door. "Stop worrying," I tried to laugh. "I'll call you when I step in, ok?" I joked.

"Please do," he agreed, giving me a serious look. I didn't realize that he indeed, wasn't joking.

"Thanks again." I waved my hand as I door closed. "See you tomorrow," I called out.

"Don't forget to call," he reminded me when I was walking to the building door.

"I won't."

I didn't know how I reached my apartment. Everything was too blurry, too painful to even look at. However, I did know that it was dark and that I stumbled too many times until I reached my bedroom. I also remembered taking my pill like I was supposed to, before falling on my bed, inviting sleep almost immediately.

What I did however fail to realize were two things.

I had forgotten to call Kabir.

How in the world did Kabir know my address?

Chapter Four

Mornings were absolute shit.

They are even shittier when you were pregnant.

Unfortunately, I had to discover that last week as I spent 10 minutes just vomiting in my toilet and another 5 trying to get off the unpleasant taste in my throat. It was disgusting, time consuming, and overly frustrating. I couldn't even imagine that I would have to grow used to this for the next couple of weeks.

On the contrary, the reality of a baby in my stomach was overwhelming. I finally realized that something was actually growing there, that I was carrying another human being in my body. It had finally sunk down in my mind that I was responsible for someone, not just me.

But despite the horrible way of waking up on a sunny morning, I looked forward to my mornings. Why? Because I got to see the asshole that kept on breaking my heart.

Masochist much?

Well, actually that was one of the reasons I looked forward to my mornings. I loved getting ready for work. I loved leaving for work. I loved even more escaping my own apartment. In other words, I hated Ishani.

My own house was like a stranger to me. I didn't feel like it was home. I didn't know what has gotten into me lately but I tried to stay away as much as possible from my apartment complex. It was sad and pathetic, but it made me happy, despite my terrible situation that kept getting bigger each day. Literally.

I was at loss of what I had to do next. Yes, I had taken the liberty and talked to Kavya about it, but what's next? Was I supposed to tell Ishani and pray that she kept her god-damned mouth shut, or disappear from the face of earth and never see Kabir' face again?

Quite frankly, none of those options sat too well in my heart. I was too confused and frustrated for my own good. I mean, I could hold up another month or two, three max, but then I'd have to either confess up or run for my life. The last thing I looked forward to was Kabir' face when he discovered that we slept together and were expecting a child. I had the shivers when the thought even popped to my head.

Imagine me acting upon it.

Yeah, not happening.

On top of that he was acting stranger than ever. He never asked for my address when he gave me a ride, nor did he act like my boss when he forced me to call him. More than that, he acted like a caring relative. My boss shouldn't be acting like my best friend. He shouldn't be offering me rides, even if I am about to faint. That's just overboard and downright bizarre.

So apart from my horrible confusion over everything possible in my life, I was quite fine, especially when Kabir greeted me the next morning as if nothing happened. Personality disorder much? I shouldn't be surprised that I felt like knocking a pan on his head, right? Because quite frankly, he totally deserved it, especially since he left me madder than ever. I wondered if I could go mentally insane from emotional disturbance.

"Pooja, there's a woman named Kavya on line 2 for you," Rani announced, snapping me back to my cruel and unfortunate reality.

"Thanks Rani," I replied before picking up the phone.

"So did you tell him yet?" was the first thing that came out of her mouth when I greeted her. Jeez, where was the 'Hi, how are you'? Did her workplace swallow up her manners? I rolled my eyes into the phone before replying.

"No, I didn't, and stop asking the same question. You know that I am not going to say anything," I responded, my eyes darting around the room to check for any eavesdroppers.

"But Pooja, he needs to know," Kavya insisted, her voice whiny and loud at the same time.

"Can you quiet down? Not only did you call me on my work number where anyone can be listening, but you're screaming on the phone as well. Why don't you just advertise it next time?" I told her sarcastically, the anger evident behind my tone.

"Maybe I will, just to show you how much of a bitch you're being right now," Kavya shot back with no sense of apology. "You need to get your head out of the gutter and realize that everything isn't as it seems," she added, this time whispering.

"Is this why you called? To give me life advice? At 11 in the morning?" I asked her, changing the subject. I sighed heavily into the phone and closed my eyes. I loved my best friend, but honestly sometimes she needed to keep her opinions to herself.

"Well, if you continue being this rude then I'll just cancel the lunch plan I had for us, thank you very much," she said, her voice stricken with irritation. "I know you're angry at the world, Pooja, but you need to stop getting so jumpy about everything," Kavya continued, this time with a much softer tone.

"I'm sorry," I automatically shot out. "I would love to have lunch with you."

Kavya laughed in response and I could imagine the twinkle in her eyes. "Good, then be ready at 12:30, I'll pick you up," she finally said before hanging up the phone.

I sighed and went back to work, for the first time looking forward to leaving my office. Kabir could go to hell for all I cared.

Xxx

"So I have an idea," Kavya announced when we sat down in our reserved table.

Kavya was always extravagant when we ate together. For starters she never let me pay when she was the one who invited me, complaining that it was her treat. She also only ate at minimum four star restaurants, serving one of the best, if not the best meals in town. Like right now. We were having lunch at a small coffee shop, too expensive to even sit in, because the seats looked like they were made from the most expensive materials sent from Italy. It was nerve wracking but at the same time it made me feel special. I loved how Kavya really considered so close to her to treat to such places. Not that I didn't treat her back, just not in such a luxurious way.

"Please do share your brilliance," I replied, letting the sarcasm roll off my tongue. She glared at me, her eyes piercing blue, before rolling her eyes and responding.

"Ask him if he remembers anything from that night!" she exclaimed, as if it was the smartest thing in the world.

"Uh, Kavya. Seriously, that's the best you came up with?" I raised my eyebrow at her, questioningly. "You want me to be like 'Hey Kabir I just wanted to ask you, remember that night almost two months ago, do you remember doing anything with me that night? Just so you know, we slept together. But no worries, I know you don't like attachments, but I just wanted to let you know that I am pregnant but that's okay, you don't have to do anything. I am fine on my own.' Yes Kavya, absolutely brilliant," I replied my voice heavily laced with annoyance.

Kavya rolled her eyes and shook her head in response. "That's not what I meant."

"Then what exactly did you mean, Kavya? Because right now that's the last thing I would do if I am not planning on getting fired."

"Just ask him randomly in a conversation," Kavya said instead, ignoring my angry glare. "Don't give him all the juicy details. Who knows maybe what he's doing is all an act." She shrugged her shoulders suggestively.

"Yes, and the next thing you know he hid from me for two months because he's afraid of what he has done and blah blah blah," I continued, rolling my eyes at how cheesy and unrealistic the story sounded.

Kavya was about to respond but we were interrupted with the food being delivered to our table. My mouth watered at the delicacies, my stomach grumbling just by the smell. Without a second thought, I grabbed my fork and began golfing down my food.

"You sure are hungry," Kavya commented as I let out an embarrassing moan.

"I didn't have breakfast," I defended myself, smiling playfully. I was glad we weren't talking about Kabir for a change. I was sick of hearing his name in every single part of my life. Even my best friend talked about him.

"That's not good, Pooja. Remember what the doctor told you. You need your nutrients, or else you'll be putting the child at risk," she reminded me, shaking her head in concern.

I nodded reassuringly and grinned. "Don't worry, I am still eating a lot. It was the first time."

"Sometimes you make me so worried. I feel like your mother rather that your best friend."

"I'm sorry," I mumbled apologetically, grimacing. "I promise to take care of myself."

The rest of the meal was eaten in a peaceful manner. Kavya kept me up to date with all the drama in her life, never missing a beat. Before long it was time to go and we parted ways, promising to see each other soon. It was only when I was back at my office did I realize how much I missed Kavya in the past couple of months that she's being gone. It felt so good to have my best friend back.

Xxx

Can an office be intimidating?

That was the question that rang in my head when I was called into Kabir' office. I was used to being able to control myself, hold back that anxiety attack of seeing his perfect face every time. But I couldn't seem to be able to do it now. The look in his eyes told me that there was unfinished business between us that wasn't going to be touched. He was admitting the issue but wasn't going as far enough so solve it. How was I supposed to react to this?

There's a word called 'ignore' in the English dictionary. Look it up.

I shook my head, clearing out the deep sarcasm my mind held against me.

"Yes, Mr. Mittal," I called out, my smile almost breaking out of my face.

"You didn't call yesterday. Are you okay?"

My eyed widened at his question and I nodded numbly, "Yes, thank you."

He smiled in response. "You got me worried there. You looked like you were about to faint."

"I'm sorry," I grinned lopsidedly. "But I'm fine now, so don't worry."

"Good." he nodded approvingly. "Can you call off all next week's schedule? There's an emergency business trip that I have to attend to."

"All of next week?" I asked in surprise. "That's over 10 meetings."

"I know," he sighed. "But the branch in New York is completely wrecked, so I have to be there as soon as possible," he explained. "This is why I am going to need a lot of your help."

"Sure, tell me what I can do."

"You're going to fly with me to New York."

My mouth hung open in response. Was he joking right now? "You want me to go with you to New York?" I clarified nervously. "But who's going to be in charge of everything here?" I asked, "How long are you leaving for?"

"About a week or so, depending on the situation there," he answered. "My sister is going to take over, she just came back from Europe, and so I can leave everything to her."

I continued to stare him, not knowing what to say or do. "Sir, I've never been outside of Seattle," I said, hoping that he'd take back his offer.

"Do you have a passport?" he asked.

"Yes but-,"

"Then don't worry about anything," he interrupted, dismissing my worried look. "You'll find New York to be a nice city, and the branch there isn't as big as this one, so you'll be more comfortable," Kabir assured me, smiling lightly. "Sleep on it and let me know by tomorrow, okay?" he suggested.

"Thank you," I responded gratefully, thankful that he at least gave me a choice rather than an order.

He nodded and I headed back to my desk, trying to get a sense of what just happened.

Xxx

"That's the perfect opportunity."

That was what Kavya had told me when I got home after work. Me, being all nervous and unsure of what to do, called her and asked for advice. It was inevitable she said it was a good idea. Any opportunity that would leave us alone together was a good idea in her head. She practically had them piled up inside in her brain.

"I don't even know how long we're going for. Plus, I can't just leave everything and get on a plane to New York," I insisted, although my own reason seemed weak even to me.

"Oh please, it's not like you're leaving your family and your work," Kavya replied, and I could pretty much sense the roll in her eyes. "Think about it, it would be a good break for you. When was the last time you took a vacation?"

"It's not supposed to be a vacation, Kavya. I will still be doing my job," I shook my head. "Probably even more than what I do now since the branch is completely turned upside down..." I trailed off, imagining the scene in my head.

"You won't be working all day, Pooja. What about nights and weekends? Do you know how beautiful the city is?"

Her suggestion was tempting, almost too tempting as she continued to describe the city and what I was missing out. However, I still wasn't sure if I could leave the apartment to Ishani. I knew that if Ishani wasn't under my control, she would have probably partied day and night without caring whatsoever.

"And once you're back, you can move in with me," Kavya suddenly declared as I droned on in my thoughts.

"Very funny Kavya, but I don't think so," I laughed.

"I' not joking Pooja. That horrible area you live in isn't normal." She responded, her voice suddenly dropping an octave, fully serious.

"We've went over this a hundred time," I said tiredly. "You know I can't afford to pay the rent plus I'm pregnant, which will make me even more broke..." I shook my head in protest.

"Even more of a reason for you to leave as far away as possible. Your neighbourhood isn't safe for a child," Kavya stated, "besides, I'm not even paying the rent. Technically, dad covered it for the next two years."

"I'm not going to be a freeloader Kavya. I know your parents are well off, but that doesn't mean that they have to take care of me as well," I interrupted her with a frown.

I heard Kavya sigh into the phone, almost as if she was frustrated. "You know what? Just go to New York, come back, and then we'll talk about it," she replied in a final tone, her voice leaving me with no room for arguments.

"Fine, but don't complain if it won't work out."

"Yeah, yeah. We'll see."

Kavya's 'We'll see' made me worried, especially when she gave me that I-already-won tone. I just hoped that I made the right decision by Listening to her advice and saying 'yes' to Kabir' crazy New York offer the next day.

"You'll be fine, don't worry." Was what he said to me when he realized how nervous I had been. His smile that sent shivers to my spine both calmed me and drove me to the edge. How did he know i was going to be fine? We slept together and he didn't even know. I was carrying his child and he had no idea. I freaking loved him and he still had no clue. So how was I supposed to be believe everything was going to be fine?