Tangled Beliefs

Chapter-65: Justice By Him

I hate that he put himself in danger, but how can I hate someone for loving me that fiercely?

Nandini's POV,

The soft amber hue of the setting sun filtered in through the blinds of Manik's cabin as I stepped in, gently closing the door behind me. He looked so engrossed-his brows slightly furrowed, shirt sleeves rolled up, fingers tapping against the desk as he reviewed some report.

I bit my lip, smiled, and walked up to him.

"Manik..." I called softly.

He glanced up, his eyes instantly softening. "Hey, sweetheart. What's up?"

"I came to tell you... I need a leave for tomorrow," I said casually, placing both hands on the edge of his desk.

His brows shot up. "Tomorrow? Why? The reception is the day after."

"I know," I replied, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, "but Maa called. She's booked my mehndi and spa appointments for tomorrow. You know how she gets about pre-functions."

He leaned back in his chair, lips curving into a mischievous smirk. "Ohh. I see. But I can't give leave like that."

I blinked, confused. "Huh? Why?"

He folded his arms and said smoothly, "It's not the right process."

I rolled my eyes. "Manik, come on. I've already sent you a formal email. Check it."

He stood up slowly, walking around the desk toward me with that lazy, seductive confidence that always made my heart skip a beat. I could feel something shift in the air the moment he got close.

He leaned in, trapping me between his body and the desk, his voice dropping to a whisper near my ear. "Still... I can't approve it just like that."

My breath caught. I turned slightly, confused. "Why not?"

His hands rested on either side of me, caging me in. He leaned even closer until his lips brushed against my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

"Because, Mrs. Malhotra... for taking a leave, you need to kiss me."

My heart thudded. I pulled back a little, looking into his eyes. "Manik... are you serious?"

He nodded with a smirk. "Damn serious."

I scoffed. "Fine. Don't approve it. I'll still take the leave."

He gasped dramatically. "Haww! You'll misuse your position as the CEO's wife?"

I folded my arms. "Stop being dramatic, Manik."

He leaned in again, his nose brushing mine. "Then kiss me, baby."

I narrowed my eyes. "Keep dreaming, Mr. Malhotra. I'm not going to do any sort of it."

His eyes darkened with mischief. "Oh really?" he whispered.

Before I could react, his hand slid to my waist, pulling me closer. My breath hitched. His fingers teased along the fabric of my saree, his other hand trailing slowly up my arm.

"Manik..." I warned softly.

He ignored it.

He pressed his lips to my jawline-wet, warm kisses-barely there but enough to make me shiver. He kissed just above my lips, teasing, hovering-so close I could feel his breath, but never touching.

I felt heat crawl up my neck, my body reacting involuntarily. I clenched my fists, trying to stay composed.

"Baby..." he whispered, his lips brushing mine with featherlight torture, "stop controlling."