[nivithenaughty]

Chapter 97: Seizing the Moment

Nivi slipped back into the apartment, the night air clinging to her red kurta, the shimmering black leggings slightly dusty from the park and Rajendar’s yard. The door clicked shut, the kids’ soft snores a distant hum from their room, the living room bathed in the faint glow of a single lamp. Her heart raced with the evening’s events—calling Rajendar, visiting his home, petting Titan—and she felt a surge of pride at seizing the opportunity. She set her bag down, the trolley of outfits a quiet witness, and found her mother-in-law on the couch, a cup of chai in hand, her saree dbangd loosely.

“You’re back late,” the older woman said, her voice warm but curious, patting the seat beside her.

“Spill it—what happened?”

Nivi sank onto the couch, her kurta brushing her thighs, and leaned in.

“I called Rajendar after he didn’t show at the park. He’d fallen, twisted his ankle. I worried, so I went to his place—12B, Old Gandhi Road. Offered to help, and he let me in.” Her voice was excited, the story tumbling out.

Her mother-in-law’s eyes lit up, a proud smile spreading.

“Smart move, girl! Using that chance to get close—perfect play. What did you do?” Her tone was admiring, her hand resting on Nivi’s knee.

Nivi grinned, the praise boosting her.

“I insisted on making tea since he couldn’t move much. Searched his kitchen—it was a mess, but I managed. We talked, and I offered to bring office files, work with him till he recovers. He was surprised, thanked me.” Her voice was proud, the leggings shimmering as she shifted.

The older woman nodded, impressed.

“That’s my girl! Showing care—now he’ll trust you. Good instinct.” Her tone was encouraging, her fingers squeezing Nivi’s knee.

Nivi pulled out her phone, dialing Raghavan, her pulse quickening.

“I need to tell him.” When he answered, his voice was tired but warm.

“Hey, it’s me. I visited Rajendar—his ankle’s twisted. I offered to help with work at his place till he’s better.”

Raghavan chuckled, his tone approving.

“Well done, Nivi. Seizing the moment—perfect. Wait a sec, I’ll add him to the call.” The line shifted, a conference tone beeping, and Rajendar’s voice joined, gruff but polite.

“Hello?”

“Rajendar, it’s Raghavan,” he said, his voice firm.

“Nivi explained your situation. Take two weeks’ paid leave—rest that ankle. For any work doubts, Nivi will come to your home for guidance.” His tone was decisive, the plan solidifying.

Rajendar hesitated, then spoke.

“Thank you both. That’s… generous. I appreciate it.” His voice softened, the gratitude clear.

Nivi smiled, her heart swelling.

“Glad to help, sir.” The call ended, Raghavan disconnecting, then ringing her back alone.

“Good job, Nivi,” he said, his voice lowering.

“This time, make sure you get all the clients on your side. Any new encounters in your life—spill it, you naughty girl?” His tone turned flirty, a naughty edge creeping in.

She laughed, blushing.

“No new ones—just work and Rajendar. But I’ll try something—stay happy, okay?” Her voice was playful, deflecting his push.

He chuckled, his tone warm.

“Do it, baby. Be bold. I’ll miss you.” The call ended, leaving her with his words echoing.

Nivi sighed, the excitement fading into tiredness, and lay on the couch, her kurta soft against her skin. Her mind replayed his advice—control the clients, be happy—and she drifted to sleep, the night wrapping her in thoughts of power and possibility.