An Inconvenient Flame

Chapter 32

Abhiraj's Pov

I'm in a middle of a discussion with Neil, my secretary, about a business agreement. My eyes skim through the file on my desk, absorbing every detail, while I keep the phone pressed to my ear.

"Yes, Neil, we need to make sure the contract lays a minimum delivery period of six months," I say, making a note in the notepad. "And see if we can negotiate a better rate on—"

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice a glimpse of movement. I glance up briefly but dismiss it, focusing back on the file. My focus is split between the phone conversation and the figures in front of me.

"Right, and also—"

I feel a slight tug at my sleeve. I look away from the file to see Ivaan standing there, his big emerald eyes looking up at me hesitantly. He's holding a small notebook and a pencil. I didn't even hear him enter.

"Neil, hold on a sec," I say into the phone, not taking my eyes off Ivaan. "I'll call you right back."

I set the phone down and place the file aside, turning my full attention to the little boy. I make him sit on the couch beside me, my gaze softening.

"Hey, buddy," I say gently. "What happened? Do you need something?" The kid has become more sensitive over the past week.

He shifts on his feet, looking a little nervous. "Mr.Big, I'm getting stuck with my homework." He mumbles.

"Mumma is not here to help me." He says, blushing a little.

I smile, feeling a tinge of guilt for being so wrapped up in work.

"Alright, bud. Why don't you bring your books here? We can work on it together."

His face brightens up with relief. "Okay."

"Go get your things."

As he walks out of the room, I pick up the phone again, already planning to wrap up this call as quickly as possible.

"Neil, let's finish this up quickly. Rest we'll continue later."

Neil understands, and we speed through the remaining points. I jot down the final notes and close the file with a sense of urgency.

"Alright, Neil. I'll review the revised terms tonight. You did a good job with the drafting ," I say, already mentally shifting gears. "Talk soon."

I hang up the phone just as Ivaan comes back, struggling slightly under the weight of his backpack. He dumps it on the bed and starts pulling out books and papers.

I move over to the bed, sitting down beside him. "Alright, let's see what we have here," I say, checking the textbook he hands out to me. "What are you stuck on?"

He opens to a page about the Indus Valley Civilization and points to a question. "This one. I don't understand."

I read the question aloud: " Main   features of the urban planning in the Indus Valley Civilization."

"Bud you sure this is your homework," I state, stunned seeing the topic.

" Yeah. Why?"

"This does not look like a first grade homework?"

He shakes his head. "No. It's sixth grade."

"Oh. Given by your tutor."

"I already completed my school homework. This one I'm not able to understand."

"No worries, we'll make you understand. Do you know what is urban planning and civilization?"

It completely slipped my mind that this kid is a genius. Thanks to his sweet innocence.