09-08-2024, 10:02 PM
Revathy nodded, trying to ignore the banter between them. "We need to expose this politician, but not without backup. If we go public without solid evidence, we'll be ruined."
Krish smirked, his eyes never leaving the screen. "And what would an insurance agent like you know about journalism?" he teased, his fingers flying over the keyboard. "I'm surprised you even know how to turn on a computer."
Revathy rolled her eyes, her cheeks flushing with annoyance. "Very funny, Krish," she said, trying to keep her voice light. "Just because I switched careers doesn't mean I've forgotten everything. moreover its my key to comeback to my passion journalism. i will break this story in your portal as a freelancer"
Krish chuckled, his eyes still glued to the computer screen. "I'm just saying, Revathy," he said, his tone playful but with a hint of seriousness. "This is big league stuff. You're not playing hide and seek with numbers anymore."
Revathy bristled at his remark, her pride as a journalist not quite ready to be buried by the mundane life of an insurance agent. "Thanks for the vote of confidence," she retorted, her voice sharp. "But I assure you, I know how to handle a story. And it's not like I've been selling policies all day and forgetting how to do my job."
Krish looked up, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, I never doubted that," he said, his grin unapologetic. "But it's been a while, hasn't it?" He winked at her, and she couldn't help but laugh. It was good to feel like part of the world again, to have someone who knew her as more than just Arun's mother or Alok's wife.
He leaned back in his chair, his gaze taking in her form in the red sari. "I've missed this side of you, Revathy," he said, his voice low and serious. "The fearless journalist who would stop at nothing to get the truth."
"And I've missed this, Krish," she said, her voice equally as intense. "The thrill of the chase, the knowledge that you're holding the power to change things."
Krish nodded, his eyes still on the USB drive. "But we have to be careful," he warned. "This isn't a game. If we play this wrong, we could both end up in a world of trouble."
Revathy squeezed his hand reassuringly. "I know, Krish. But I trust you."
He gave her a knowing smile before getting up to leave. "I'll be in touch," he said, the promise in his eyes as clear as the stars outside. "We'll make this work."
Revathy nodded, her thoughts racing. She knew she had to keep her meeting with Krish a secret from Alok, at least for now. She couldn't bear the thought of worrying him unnecessarily, not when she had just gotten him to be more affectionate and attentive again. So, she waited until she heard the garage door open and the sound of his footsteps approaching the front door. She took a deep breath and put on her best smile, ready to greet him with a kiss and a hug.
"Welcome home," she called out, her voice warm and welcoming.
Alok's footsteps grew closer, and she braced herself for his embrace. She had to keep her thoughts in check, not let the excitement of the USB drive and her meeting with Krish spill over into their evening routine. As he wrapped his arms around her, she felt the comforting weight of his love, the same love that made her want to protect him from the storm brewing outside their peaceful bubble.
Once Alok had settled into bed, his gentle snores lulling the room into a rhythmic calm, Revathy allowed her mind to drift back to the USB drive. The gravity of the information weighed on her, and she knew she couldn't handle it alone. There was only one person she could think of who had the experience and discretion to help her navigate the treacherous waters of political scandal: Risabh Chopra.
Risabh was a seasoned bureaucrat, a man whose knowledge of the government's inner workings was as vast as the ocean. As the Secretary to the Minister of State for one of the central ministries, he was a silent force that kept the wheels of power turning. His name alone was enough to make the corrupt tremble, and his friendship was a treasure that she had cultivated carefully over the years.
Their meeting had been a stroke of luck, a chance encounter on a flight from Delhi to Mumbai. Revathy had been traveling with Arun, who was incessantly asking for the window seat. She had looked around the cabin, hoping to find a kind soul who would swap with her, when she saw Risabh sitting in the aisle seat. He had noticed her plight and offered to change places without a second thought. The childish glee on Arun's face had made her heart swell with gratitude, and she had thanked him profusely.
But it was during the flight that she had truly come to appreciate Risabh's charm. He had a way of speaking that was both commanding and charming, a trait that had served him well in the political arena. He regaled her with stories of his work, his voice a mix of authority and mischief as he recounted tales of the powerful and corrupt. His wit and intelligence were a potent cocktail, and Revathy found herself drawn to him, sharing her own ambitions and challenges in her career.
Risabh had noticed the glint in her eye when she spoke of exposing the truth, and he had leaned in closer, his hand brushing against hers. "You're a woman after my own heart, Revathy," he had said, his smile both warm and predatory. "I can see that you're not afraid to get your hands dirty."
Their conversation had flowed easily, a dance of power and attraction that neither could ignore. By the end of the flight, Revathy had agreed to meet him for dinner when she was in Delhi next. It was a risky move, one that could either advance her career or lead to disaster, but she was tired of playing it safe.
The calls from Risabh came like clockwork, his smooth voice a siren's call in the midst of her mundane life. At first, she had been hesitant, her mind reeling with the implications of what she had in her possession. But as the days turned into weeks, she found herself eagerly awaiting his calls, the anticipation building like a crescendo before a storm.
Finally, she gave in, her curiosity piqued by the prospect of what he could offer her. "I've missed you, Revathy," he had said, his voice a warm embrace over the phone. "When are you coming to Delhi? We have so much to catch up on."
Revathy felt a flutter in her stomach. "I'll be there in a week," she replied, her voice cooler than she felt. "But it's all about work, Risabh. I need to keep my focus."
"Of course, my dear," he said, his voice like silk. "But a little networking never hurt anyone, did it?"
Revathy couldn't argue with that. The invitations to Risabh's page-three parties had been rolling in, each one more extravagant than the last. She had hoped to avoid them, but the allure of being in the same room as the movers and shakers of Delhi was too great to resist. Plus, it was all for the networking and her ambition to dwell in power corridor which was her long term goal, she told herself. So, she began to accept the invitations, always bringing a colleague or friend with her as a buffer.
At each event, Risabh would find a way to corner her, his eyes devouring her in that hungry way that made her stomach flip-flop. He'd lean in close, whispering sweet nothings that made her skin crawl, his breath hot against her ear. "When will you give me the pleasure of dining with me alone?" he'd purr, his hand brushing against her arm.
Revathy had become quite the chess player, always thinking two moves ahead. She'd laugh, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Risabh, you know I'm a married woman," she'd say, placing a hand on his chest to keep him at bay. "But maybe we can grab lunch one of these days, when my schedule isn't so hectic." Each time she'd manage to wriggle out of his grasp, her smile never wavering.
In bed that night, she couldn't help but think about Risabh's relentless pursuit. His expensive cologne lingered in her nostrils, his breath on her neck a memory that sent shivers down her spine. Despite his age and his reputation as a womanizer, there was something about him that intrigued her. His power, his charm, his ruthlessness in the political arena - it was all so...exciting.
Revathy rolled over onto her side, her hand idly playing with the sheet. She had been smart, always finding an excuse to avoid his advances. Work deadlines, family commitments, even pretending to have a dentist appointment at the most inconvenient time - she had used them all. But as she lay there, she couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that she had him wrapped around her little finger. It was a heady feeling, one she hadn't experienced in a long time.
The next day, she decided it was time to play her hand. She called Risabh and seeked his appointment , ostensibly to discuss the issue further. The anticipation in his voice was palpable, and she couldn't help but smile. She knew he was expecting more than just a professional meeting, and she was ready to give it to him. But this time, it would be on her terms.
"Revathy, I've been waiting for your call," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "What can I do for you?"
Revathy took a deep breath, her heart racing. "I've been thinking about what you said, Risabh," she began, her voice measured and controlled. "And I think it's time we took this to the next level."
There was a pause on the line, and she could almost hear the cogs turning in his mind. "What do you mean, Revathy?" he asked, his tone tentative yet eager.
"I mean," she said, her voice taking on a seductive edge, "that I'd like to come to your birthday party next week."
Risabh's eyes widened slightly, his expression a mix of surprise and pleasure. "My birthday party? That's quite an exclusive event, Revathy," he said, his voice dripping with honey. "But of course, you're more than welcome."
Revathy felt a thrill of victory. She had him where she wanted him. "Thank you," she said, her voice sweet. "But I have one condition."
"Name it," Risabh replied, his tone eager.
Revathy's smile grew wider. "I'd like to bring my husband, Alok," she said cheekily. "It's a family affair, after all."
There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, and she could almost see the cogs turning in Risabh's head. "Your husband?" he repeated, trying to keep the disappointment from his voice.
"Yes," she said, her tone firm. "Alok and I are a package deal. I wouldn't dream of attending without him."
Risabh's expression was a picture of conflicted emotions, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I see," he said, his voice tight. "Well, I suppose that's acceptable. It's a party, after all. The more the merrier."
Revathy's heart skipped a beat. She had called his bluff, and he had folded. "Great," she said, her voice light and airy. "We'll definitely be there."
------
The night of the party, Revathy chose a black sari that was as enigmatic as the evening's intentions. The transparent fabric clung to her curves, teasingly revealing the classy yet alluring blouse beneath. It was a delicate dance of modesty and seduction, a deliberate choice to keep the men guessing. As she stepped out of the car, the sari's pallu fluttered in the breeze, exposing the barest hint of her midriff.
"You look stunning," Alok said, his eyes lingering on her cleavage. But there was an edge to his voice, a hint of insecurity that wasn't lost on Revathy. She knew he was aware of the game she was playing, but she also knew he loved her, and she didn't intend to let things go too far.
"Thank you, darling," she replied, her voice dripping with sweetness. She leaned in to kiss him, her hand on his chest. "But don't worry, I'm all yours." She whispered the words with a playful smile, but the look in her eyes was serious. She knew the power she wielded and was determined to use it wisely.
As they entered the party, the room was ablaze with light and the chatter of influential voices. Politicians and bureaucrats mingled, their eyes scanning the room for potential allies and enemies. Revathy felt their gazes on her, and she knew they were thinking about the USB she held in her purse, the secret that could make or break their careers. She played the part of the devoted wife, her hand entwined in Alok's, but she couldn't help the thrill that shot through her as she felt the weight of their desire.
Alok, on the other hand, was visibly uncomfortable. He had only agreed to come for the free food and wine, not to be a pawn in his wife's game of seduction and power. He hovered by her side, his hand on her waist, a silent reminder of his presence. But Revathy knew that tonight was not about him; it was about her career, and she had to play her cards right.
As they approached the center of the party, where Risabh was holding court, Revathy playfully leaned into her husband. "Darling," she whispered, her breath hot against his ear, "I need to go mingle. Will you be okay on your own for a bit?"
Alok looked at her, his eyes filled with both love and confusion. "What about your promise?" he murmured, his thumb stroking the small of her back.
Revathy just winked. "I'll only be a few minutes, darling. Don't miss me too much." With a seductive smile, she slipped out of his embrace and sashayed away, her hips swaying to the rhythm of the Bollywood tunes that filled the air.
Alok watched her go, feeling a strange mix of pride and possessiveness. He knew she was playing a game, but he didn't know all the rules. He took a deep breath and sipped his drink, trying to blend in with the sea of strangers. He didn't know why, but he felt like he was drowning in a sea of ambition and lust.
Revathy, on the other hand, was in her element. She glided through the room, her smile as sweet as the sugared almonds scattered on the dessert table. She caught the eye of a few influential guests, and they nodded in her direction, their gazes lingering a little too long. She knew she had their attention, and she reveled in it. As she approached Risabh, he broke away from his entourage and took her hand, kissing it gallantly. "Revathy, you look stunning," he murmured, his eyes roving over her.
"Thank you," she replied, her voice cool and collected. "But let's not forget the real reason we're here." She held up the USB drive between her thumb and forefinger, the silver glinting in the disco lights. Risabh's eyes narrowed, and he nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
Meanwhile, Alok was busy exploring the party, sipping wine and tasting the various delicacies laid out on the elaborate buffet. The aroma of spices and sizzling meat filled the air, and the sound of laughter and clinking glasses created a lively ambiance. From afar, he could see Revathy giggling with Risabh and a small group of people, including a woman in her mid-twenties dressed in a skimpy outfit that left little to the imagination. Her bare shoulders gleamed in the light, and the way she leaned into Risabh's ear suggested they were sharing a private joke.
Alok felt a strange pang of jealousy, but he reminded himself that she was just playing the game. He took another sip of wine, the liquid burning a trail down his throat as he forced a smile. He couldn't help but feel like a bystander in her world, a mere accessory to the grand scheme she was orchestrating. He scanned the room, looking for familiar faces, but found none. The sea of strangers was as intimidating as it was fascinating.
Suddenly, his heart skipped a beat as he saw something that made him question his sanity. From across the room, it looked like Risabh had just slapped Revathy's ass, his hand lingering longer than it should have. Her laughter, which had been music to his ears, now sounded forced and fake. His eyes narrowed, trying to discern if he was hallucinating from the naughty jokes they had shared or if his insecurities were playing tricks on him. Was it a casual gesture of friendship or something more?
The room spun around him as he watched, his grip tightening on the wine glass. He took a step forward, his mind racing. Was he overreacting? Maybe it was just his imagination, fueled by the whispers of doubt that had been plaguing him since he and revathy opened up about naughty fantasies. Or perhaps it was the stress of her flirting with power, the lines between work and play blurring before his very eyes.
But then, as if the universe had conspired to confirm his worst fears, he heard it. The words, hushed and malicious, floated through the air like a venomous snake. Two men, both in their late 40s, stood nearby, their eyes on the same group as his. "Risabh is quite the womanizer," one murmured, his voice thick with contempt. "It's only a matter of time before he beds her."
Alok's hand trembled, the wine sloshing in his glass. He knew he should walk away, ignore the toxic whispers that could only serve to fuel his insecurity. But his feet remained rooted to the spot as the other man spoke up, his voice carrying just enough for Alok to make out the words, "And let's not forget about Sonia. He's had his way with her for months now."
Alok's gaze snapped to the skimpily dressed woman standing with Revathy, Risabh, and the others. The realization hit him like a punch to the gut. That was Sonia? The intern everyone talked about in hushed tones, the one rumored to be sleeping her way to the top? His eyes narrowed as he studied her, his mind reeling with images of his wife in similar situations.
The gossiping men's conversation grew louder, their whispers carrying through the air like a noxious fog. "Risabh's got his eyes on that new fish, you know," the first one said, his voice dripping with innuendo. "The one with the big tits and the tight ass."
Alok's blood boiled, and he took a step closer, his hand tightening around his drink. "But she's married, isn't she?" the second man replied, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
"Oh, marriage is just a formality for these kinds," the first man said, waving his hand dismissively. "Risabh's a player, always has been. And as for Revathy, she's got that 'I dare you' look in her eyes. Like she's just waiting for the right moment to jump into the sack with him."
Alok's jaw clenched as he took a sip of his drink, trying to keep his cool. The idea of Revathy with another man, especially someone like Risabh, was unbearable. He watched as she laughed at something Sonia had said, the sound of her laughter grating on his nerves. Was she really playing this game? Did she enjoy the attention?
Revathy felt his eyes on her and turned to find him, her smile fading slightly when she saw the anger in his gaze. She excused herself from the group, making her way over to him with a mix of annoyance and concern. "What's wrong?" she asked, placing a hand on his arm.
"Just... watching you work the room," Alok said tightly, his voice low enough that only she could hear. "You're playing a dangerous game, Revathy."
Revathy's heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean?" she asked, her smile never faltering. She knew he had overheard the gossip, had seen her with Risabh. She could feel the tension in his body, the way his hand clenched around his drink.
"The deal, Revathy," he said, his voice a low growl. "The one you're making with that... that snake." He nodded towards where Risabh was now talking to a group of politicians, his hand resting on the shoulder of a young intern named Sonia.
Revathy's eyes narrowed. "What deal are you talking about, Alok?" she asked, her voice sharp. "I'm just doing my job."
Alok's grip tightened on his drink. "Don't play dumb with me," he said. "I saw the way he was looking at you, the way he was touching you." His voice was tight with barely contained anger.
Revathy took a deep breath, her eyes never leaving Alok's. "It's just business, darling," she said, her voice soothing. "You know how these things go."
But Alok was not convinced. "I don't like it," he said, his voice firm. "I don't like the way he looks at you."
Revathy rolled her eyes. "You're being ridiculous," she said, her voice still sweet but with an underlying edge. "You're acting like a jealous collegeboy."
Alok's eyes flashed with anger, but he took a deep breath and tried to rein it in. "I'm just looking out for you, Revathy," he said, his voice softer now. "You're playing with fire, and I don't want you to get burned."
"I know what I'm doing," she replied, her own voice firm. "This is my career, my future. I can handle it." She took a step closer to him, her hand reaching out to cup his cheek. "Trust me," she whispered, her eyes pleading.
Alok searched her face, his eyes lingering on her lips. He knew he had no right to be jealous, but the thought of her with another man was like a knife twisting in his gut. "Fine," he said, his voice tight. "But don't go too far."
Meanwhile, Risabh had used the chaos of the party as an alibi to lead Revathy to a quieter corner of the room. He leaned against the wall, watching her with a hungry gaze. "Revathy," he called out, his voice cutting through the din. She excused herself from her husband's side and walked over, her hips swaying slightly.
"What is it, Risabh?" she asked, her voice cool and professional. He took her hand and pulled her closer, his breath warm against her ear. "I want to talk to you about something important," he whispered. His hand on her wrist felt like a brand, a claim of ownership she couldn't ignore.
Krish smirked, his eyes never leaving the screen. "And what would an insurance agent like you know about journalism?" he teased, his fingers flying over the keyboard. "I'm surprised you even know how to turn on a computer."
Revathy rolled her eyes, her cheeks flushing with annoyance. "Very funny, Krish," she said, trying to keep her voice light. "Just because I switched careers doesn't mean I've forgotten everything. moreover its my key to comeback to my passion journalism. i will break this story in your portal as a freelancer"
Krish chuckled, his eyes still glued to the computer screen. "I'm just saying, Revathy," he said, his tone playful but with a hint of seriousness. "This is big league stuff. You're not playing hide and seek with numbers anymore."
Revathy bristled at his remark, her pride as a journalist not quite ready to be buried by the mundane life of an insurance agent. "Thanks for the vote of confidence," she retorted, her voice sharp. "But I assure you, I know how to handle a story. And it's not like I've been selling policies all day and forgetting how to do my job."
Krish looked up, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, I never doubted that," he said, his grin unapologetic. "But it's been a while, hasn't it?" He winked at her, and she couldn't help but laugh. It was good to feel like part of the world again, to have someone who knew her as more than just Arun's mother or Alok's wife.
He leaned back in his chair, his gaze taking in her form in the red sari. "I've missed this side of you, Revathy," he said, his voice low and serious. "The fearless journalist who would stop at nothing to get the truth."
"And I've missed this, Krish," she said, her voice equally as intense. "The thrill of the chase, the knowledge that you're holding the power to change things."
Krish nodded, his eyes still on the USB drive. "But we have to be careful," he warned. "This isn't a game. If we play this wrong, we could both end up in a world of trouble."
Revathy squeezed his hand reassuringly. "I know, Krish. But I trust you."
He gave her a knowing smile before getting up to leave. "I'll be in touch," he said, the promise in his eyes as clear as the stars outside. "We'll make this work."
Revathy nodded, her thoughts racing. She knew she had to keep her meeting with Krish a secret from Alok, at least for now. She couldn't bear the thought of worrying him unnecessarily, not when she had just gotten him to be more affectionate and attentive again. So, she waited until she heard the garage door open and the sound of his footsteps approaching the front door. She took a deep breath and put on her best smile, ready to greet him with a kiss and a hug.
"Welcome home," she called out, her voice warm and welcoming.
Alok's footsteps grew closer, and she braced herself for his embrace. She had to keep her thoughts in check, not let the excitement of the USB drive and her meeting with Krish spill over into their evening routine. As he wrapped his arms around her, she felt the comforting weight of his love, the same love that made her want to protect him from the storm brewing outside their peaceful bubble.
Once Alok had settled into bed, his gentle snores lulling the room into a rhythmic calm, Revathy allowed her mind to drift back to the USB drive. The gravity of the information weighed on her, and she knew she couldn't handle it alone. There was only one person she could think of who had the experience and discretion to help her navigate the treacherous waters of political scandal: Risabh Chopra.
Risabh was a seasoned bureaucrat, a man whose knowledge of the government's inner workings was as vast as the ocean. As the Secretary to the Minister of State for one of the central ministries, he was a silent force that kept the wheels of power turning. His name alone was enough to make the corrupt tremble, and his friendship was a treasure that she had cultivated carefully over the years.
Their meeting had been a stroke of luck, a chance encounter on a flight from Delhi to Mumbai. Revathy had been traveling with Arun, who was incessantly asking for the window seat. She had looked around the cabin, hoping to find a kind soul who would swap with her, when she saw Risabh sitting in the aisle seat. He had noticed her plight and offered to change places without a second thought. The childish glee on Arun's face had made her heart swell with gratitude, and she had thanked him profusely.
But it was during the flight that she had truly come to appreciate Risabh's charm. He had a way of speaking that was both commanding and charming, a trait that had served him well in the political arena. He regaled her with stories of his work, his voice a mix of authority and mischief as he recounted tales of the powerful and corrupt. His wit and intelligence were a potent cocktail, and Revathy found herself drawn to him, sharing her own ambitions and challenges in her career.
Risabh had noticed the glint in her eye when she spoke of exposing the truth, and he had leaned in closer, his hand brushing against hers. "You're a woman after my own heart, Revathy," he had said, his smile both warm and predatory. "I can see that you're not afraid to get your hands dirty."
Their conversation had flowed easily, a dance of power and attraction that neither could ignore. By the end of the flight, Revathy had agreed to meet him for dinner when she was in Delhi next. It was a risky move, one that could either advance her career or lead to disaster, but she was tired of playing it safe.
The calls from Risabh came like clockwork, his smooth voice a siren's call in the midst of her mundane life. At first, she had been hesitant, her mind reeling with the implications of what she had in her possession. But as the days turned into weeks, she found herself eagerly awaiting his calls, the anticipation building like a crescendo before a storm.
Finally, she gave in, her curiosity piqued by the prospect of what he could offer her. "I've missed you, Revathy," he had said, his voice a warm embrace over the phone. "When are you coming to Delhi? We have so much to catch up on."
Revathy felt a flutter in her stomach. "I'll be there in a week," she replied, her voice cooler than she felt. "But it's all about work, Risabh. I need to keep my focus."
"Of course, my dear," he said, his voice like silk. "But a little networking never hurt anyone, did it?"
Revathy couldn't argue with that. The invitations to Risabh's page-three parties had been rolling in, each one more extravagant than the last. She had hoped to avoid them, but the allure of being in the same room as the movers and shakers of Delhi was too great to resist. Plus, it was all for the networking and her ambition to dwell in power corridor which was her long term goal, she told herself. So, she began to accept the invitations, always bringing a colleague or friend with her as a buffer.
At each event, Risabh would find a way to corner her, his eyes devouring her in that hungry way that made her stomach flip-flop. He'd lean in close, whispering sweet nothings that made her skin crawl, his breath hot against her ear. "When will you give me the pleasure of dining with me alone?" he'd purr, his hand brushing against her arm.
Revathy had become quite the chess player, always thinking two moves ahead. She'd laugh, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Risabh, you know I'm a married woman," she'd say, placing a hand on his chest to keep him at bay. "But maybe we can grab lunch one of these days, when my schedule isn't so hectic." Each time she'd manage to wriggle out of his grasp, her smile never wavering.
In bed that night, she couldn't help but think about Risabh's relentless pursuit. His expensive cologne lingered in her nostrils, his breath on her neck a memory that sent shivers down her spine. Despite his age and his reputation as a womanizer, there was something about him that intrigued her. His power, his charm, his ruthlessness in the political arena - it was all so...exciting.
Revathy rolled over onto her side, her hand idly playing with the sheet. She had been smart, always finding an excuse to avoid his advances. Work deadlines, family commitments, even pretending to have a dentist appointment at the most inconvenient time - she had used them all. But as she lay there, she couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that she had him wrapped around her little finger. It was a heady feeling, one she hadn't experienced in a long time.
The next day, she decided it was time to play her hand. She called Risabh and seeked his appointment , ostensibly to discuss the issue further. The anticipation in his voice was palpable, and she couldn't help but smile. She knew he was expecting more than just a professional meeting, and she was ready to give it to him. But this time, it would be on her terms.
"Revathy, I've been waiting for your call," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "What can I do for you?"
Revathy took a deep breath, her heart racing. "I've been thinking about what you said, Risabh," she began, her voice measured and controlled. "And I think it's time we took this to the next level."
There was a pause on the line, and she could almost hear the cogs turning in his mind. "What do you mean, Revathy?" he asked, his tone tentative yet eager.
"I mean," she said, her voice taking on a seductive edge, "that I'd like to come to your birthday party next week."
Risabh's eyes widened slightly, his expression a mix of surprise and pleasure. "My birthday party? That's quite an exclusive event, Revathy," he said, his voice dripping with honey. "But of course, you're more than welcome."
Revathy felt a thrill of victory. She had him where she wanted him. "Thank you," she said, her voice sweet. "But I have one condition."
"Name it," Risabh replied, his tone eager.
Revathy's smile grew wider. "I'd like to bring my husband, Alok," she said cheekily. "It's a family affair, after all."
There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, and she could almost see the cogs turning in Risabh's head. "Your husband?" he repeated, trying to keep the disappointment from his voice.
"Yes," she said, her tone firm. "Alok and I are a package deal. I wouldn't dream of attending without him."
Risabh's expression was a picture of conflicted emotions, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I see," he said, his voice tight. "Well, I suppose that's acceptable. It's a party, after all. The more the merrier."
Revathy's heart skipped a beat. She had called his bluff, and he had folded. "Great," she said, her voice light and airy. "We'll definitely be there."
------
The night of the party, Revathy chose a black sari that was as enigmatic as the evening's intentions. The transparent fabric clung to her curves, teasingly revealing the classy yet alluring blouse beneath. It was a delicate dance of modesty and seduction, a deliberate choice to keep the men guessing. As she stepped out of the car, the sari's pallu fluttered in the breeze, exposing the barest hint of her midriff.
"You look stunning," Alok said, his eyes lingering on her cleavage. But there was an edge to his voice, a hint of insecurity that wasn't lost on Revathy. She knew he was aware of the game she was playing, but she also knew he loved her, and she didn't intend to let things go too far.
"Thank you, darling," she replied, her voice dripping with sweetness. She leaned in to kiss him, her hand on his chest. "But don't worry, I'm all yours." She whispered the words with a playful smile, but the look in her eyes was serious. She knew the power she wielded and was determined to use it wisely.
As they entered the party, the room was ablaze with light and the chatter of influential voices. Politicians and bureaucrats mingled, their eyes scanning the room for potential allies and enemies. Revathy felt their gazes on her, and she knew they were thinking about the USB she held in her purse, the secret that could make or break their careers. She played the part of the devoted wife, her hand entwined in Alok's, but she couldn't help the thrill that shot through her as she felt the weight of their desire.
Alok, on the other hand, was visibly uncomfortable. He had only agreed to come for the free food and wine, not to be a pawn in his wife's game of seduction and power. He hovered by her side, his hand on her waist, a silent reminder of his presence. But Revathy knew that tonight was not about him; it was about her career, and she had to play her cards right.
As they approached the center of the party, where Risabh was holding court, Revathy playfully leaned into her husband. "Darling," she whispered, her breath hot against his ear, "I need to go mingle. Will you be okay on your own for a bit?"
Alok looked at her, his eyes filled with both love and confusion. "What about your promise?" he murmured, his thumb stroking the small of her back.
Revathy just winked. "I'll only be a few minutes, darling. Don't miss me too much." With a seductive smile, she slipped out of his embrace and sashayed away, her hips swaying to the rhythm of the Bollywood tunes that filled the air.
Alok watched her go, feeling a strange mix of pride and possessiveness. He knew she was playing a game, but he didn't know all the rules. He took a deep breath and sipped his drink, trying to blend in with the sea of strangers. He didn't know why, but he felt like he was drowning in a sea of ambition and lust.
Revathy, on the other hand, was in her element. She glided through the room, her smile as sweet as the sugared almonds scattered on the dessert table. She caught the eye of a few influential guests, and they nodded in her direction, their gazes lingering a little too long. She knew she had their attention, and she reveled in it. As she approached Risabh, he broke away from his entourage and took her hand, kissing it gallantly. "Revathy, you look stunning," he murmured, his eyes roving over her.
"Thank you," she replied, her voice cool and collected. "But let's not forget the real reason we're here." She held up the USB drive between her thumb and forefinger, the silver glinting in the disco lights. Risabh's eyes narrowed, and he nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
Meanwhile, Alok was busy exploring the party, sipping wine and tasting the various delicacies laid out on the elaborate buffet. The aroma of spices and sizzling meat filled the air, and the sound of laughter and clinking glasses created a lively ambiance. From afar, he could see Revathy giggling with Risabh and a small group of people, including a woman in her mid-twenties dressed in a skimpy outfit that left little to the imagination. Her bare shoulders gleamed in the light, and the way she leaned into Risabh's ear suggested they were sharing a private joke.
Alok felt a strange pang of jealousy, but he reminded himself that she was just playing the game. He took another sip of wine, the liquid burning a trail down his throat as he forced a smile. He couldn't help but feel like a bystander in her world, a mere accessory to the grand scheme she was orchestrating. He scanned the room, looking for familiar faces, but found none. The sea of strangers was as intimidating as it was fascinating.
Suddenly, his heart skipped a beat as he saw something that made him question his sanity. From across the room, it looked like Risabh had just slapped Revathy's ass, his hand lingering longer than it should have. Her laughter, which had been music to his ears, now sounded forced and fake. His eyes narrowed, trying to discern if he was hallucinating from the naughty jokes they had shared or if his insecurities were playing tricks on him. Was it a casual gesture of friendship or something more?
The room spun around him as he watched, his grip tightening on the wine glass. He took a step forward, his mind racing. Was he overreacting? Maybe it was just his imagination, fueled by the whispers of doubt that had been plaguing him since he and revathy opened up about naughty fantasies. Or perhaps it was the stress of her flirting with power, the lines between work and play blurring before his very eyes.
But then, as if the universe had conspired to confirm his worst fears, he heard it. The words, hushed and malicious, floated through the air like a venomous snake. Two men, both in their late 40s, stood nearby, their eyes on the same group as his. "Risabh is quite the womanizer," one murmured, his voice thick with contempt. "It's only a matter of time before he beds her."
Alok's hand trembled, the wine sloshing in his glass. He knew he should walk away, ignore the toxic whispers that could only serve to fuel his insecurity. But his feet remained rooted to the spot as the other man spoke up, his voice carrying just enough for Alok to make out the words, "And let's not forget about Sonia. He's had his way with her for months now."
Alok's gaze snapped to the skimpily dressed woman standing with Revathy, Risabh, and the others. The realization hit him like a punch to the gut. That was Sonia? The intern everyone talked about in hushed tones, the one rumored to be sleeping her way to the top? His eyes narrowed as he studied her, his mind reeling with images of his wife in similar situations.
The gossiping men's conversation grew louder, their whispers carrying through the air like a noxious fog. "Risabh's got his eyes on that new fish, you know," the first one said, his voice dripping with innuendo. "The one with the big tits and the tight ass."
Alok's blood boiled, and he took a step closer, his hand tightening around his drink. "But she's married, isn't she?" the second man replied, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
"Oh, marriage is just a formality for these kinds," the first man said, waving his hand dismissively. "Risabh's a player, always has been. And as for Revathy, she's got that 'I dare you' look in her eyes. Like she's just waiting for the right moment to jump into the sack with him."
Alok's jaw clenched as he took a sip of his drink, trying to keep his cool. The idea of Revathy with another man, especially someone like Risabh, was unbearable. He watched as she laughed at something Sonia had said, the sound of her laughter grating on his nerves. Was she really playing this game? Did she enjoy the attention?
Revathy felt his eyes on her and turned to find him, her smile fading slightly when she saw the anger in his gaze. She excused herself from the group, making her way over to him with a mix of annoyance and concern. "What's wrong?" she asked, placing a hand on his arm.
"Just... watching you work the room," Alok said tightly, his voice low enough that only she could hear. "You're playing a dangerous game, Revathy."
Revathy's heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean?" she asked, her smile never faltering. She knew he had overheard the gossip, had seen her with Risabh. She could feel the tension in his body, the way his hand clenched around his drink.
"The deal, Revathy," he said, his voice a low growl. "The one you're making with that... that snake." He nodded towards where Risabh was now talking to a group of politicians, his hand resting on the shoulder of a young intern named Sonia.
Revathy's eyes narrowed. "What deal are you talking about, Alok?" she asked, her voice sharp. "I'm just doing my job."
Alok's grip tightened on his drink. "Don't play dumb with me," he said. "I saw the way he was looking at you, the way he was touching you." His voice was tight with barely contained anger.
Revathy took a deep breath, her eyes never leaving Alok's. "It's just business, darling," she said, her voice soothing. "You know how these things go."
But Alok was not convinced. "I don't like it," he said, his voice firm. "I don't like the way he looks at you."
Revathy rolled her eyes. "You're being ridiculous," she said, her voice still sweet but with an underlying edge. "You're acting like a jealous collegeboy."
Alok's eyes flashed with anger, but he took a deep breath and tried to rein it in. "I'm just looking out for you, Revathy," he said, his voice softer now. "You're playing with fire, and I don't want you to get burned."
"I know what I'm doing," she replied, her own voice firm. "This is my career, my future. I can handle it." She took a step closer to him, her hand reaching out to cup his cheek. "Trust me," she whispered, her eyes pleading.
Alok searched her face, his eyes lingering on her lips. He knew he had no right to be jealous, but the thought of her with another man was like a knife twisting in his gut. "Fine," he said, his voice tight. "But don't go too far."
Meanwhile, Risabh had used the chaos of the party as an alibi to lead Revathy to a quieter corner of the room. He leaned against the wall, watching her with a hungry gaze. "Revathy," he called out, his voice cutting through the din. She excused herself from her husband's side and walked over, her hips swaying slightly.
"What is it, Risabh?" she asked, her voice cool and professional. He took her hand and pulled her closer, his breath warm against her ear. "I want to talk to you about something important," he whispered. His hand on her wrist felt like a brand, a claim of ownership she couldn't ignore.