"Also, make sure her chair is ergonomic and comfortable. She is pregnant and needs proper support."
"Yes, sir."
By nine thirty, Viya's entire workstation had been moved into the corner of my large office. Her desk was positioned near the window, where she would get natural light. Her computer, her files, even the small plant she kept on her desk, all of it had been transferred.
I wanted her close. Wanted to be able to see her throughout the day. Wanted to make sure she was eating, resting, not overworking herself.
But more than that, I wanted to break down the barriers she had built. Wanted to remind her every moment of every day that we were connected. That she was my wife. That we were in this together.
At exactly ten o'clock, I heard rapid footsteps approaching my office. The door flew open without a knock, and Viya stormed in, her face flushed with anger.
"Why have you relocated my desk?" she demanded without preamble.
She looked beautiful when she was angry. Her eyes flashed fire, her cheeks were pink, and her entire body radiated indignation.
I stood and walked around my desk toward her. She backed up slightly, but I kept coming until I could reach out and pull her into my arms.
"Armaan, what are you—"
I lifted her slightly and sat her on the edge of my desk, positioning myself between her legs so she could not escape. My hands rested on either side of her hips, caging her in.
"I relocated your desk because I want you close to me," I said simply. "Because you are pregnant with my child and you might need something. Because I want to be able to see you, to know you are safe and comfortable."
"You cannot just move my workspace without asking me!"
"I just did."
She tried to push at my chest, but I did not budge.
"Akshita and all the other employees are teasing me. They saw my desk being moved into the CEO's office. They know what it means. They are making comments and jokes and—"
"Good."
"Good?" She looked at me incredulously. "How is that good?"
"Because if they tease you out there, you will want to stay in here with me instead. Away from the gossip. Where I can take care of you."
Realization dawned in her eyes, followed quickly by more irritation.
"You planned this. You deliberately made it uncomfortable for me out there so I would have to stay here."
"I prefer to think of it as strategically removing barriers between us."
"You are impossible."
"I am determined. There is a difference."
She tried to slide off the desk, but my hands came to her waist, holding her in place. Not roughly, but firmly enough that she could not move without pushing harder than she was willing to.
"Let me go, Armaan. I have work to do."
"You can do your work right here. Your computer is set up. Your files are all here. You have everything you need."
"What I need is space from you."
"No, what you need is to remember that we are married. That we are partners. That I am not going anywhere, no matter how much you push me away."
We stared at each other, locked in a silent battle of wills.
