Prologue
Blood
Burning skin
Crackles of fire
Screams of the pained
Tears of the grieving
Sweat trickled down his temple as he shot up awake yelling incoherently, his chest heaving, his hands fisted the blanket as he glanced around looking for the dangers.
He blinked covering his eyes as the door swung open and the lights switched on blinding him for a few seconds.
“Maan…” Rhea came rushing to his side with her husband. “Are you okay?” she touched his unmarked cheek in concern.
He tensed for a moment blinking and slowly nodded. “I’m fine mama”
“Do you need anything son?” Rajeev asked gently touching his shoulder.
“N…no” he shook his head, he swallowed thickly as he inhaled and exhaled as his therapist suggested. He wanted to shove back the memories, he didn’t want them.
Rhea and Rajeev looked at each other in silent understanding then slowly stepped away.
“Just call if you need anything” Rhea brushed her hand over his thick hair pressing a kiss to his forehead.
“Mmhmm” he hummed nodding but kept his eyes averted. They slowly walked out closing the door and he lay down staring at the white ceiling thoughtfully.
Why don’t the nightmares stop?
Why do they continue reminding him that they’d died and he survived?
He didn’t want that.
He should’ve joined them.
He closed his eyes once again hoping the nightmares don’t return for the rest of the night. It seems someone must’ve heard him and his nightmare didn’t visit him for a second time.
First love is always the memorable one, they say.
“I cannot wait to get home” Kanchan murmured.
“We’ve got around 22 hours ladies” Jamie chuckled flashing a cheeky smile as the ladies they walked passed.
“You do realise you weren’t given this uniform to flirt with the ladies?” Geet looked at Jamie arching her brows.
“Now it isn’t my fault, the ladies are drawn to me” Jamie winked.
“Mmhmm remember you’re married to this lady” Ashley slipped her arm around his arm smirking.
Jamie’s smile widened. “How could I ever forget? You come up with such beautifully creative ways to remind me”
“I don’t want to hear anything, I’ve not had any in two weeks” Kanchan scrunched her nose at them. “So don’t mention sex!”
Geet rolled her eyes at them and continued ahead showing her badge to the officials as they all made their way to the terminal and towards their plane.
She pulled out her phone calling her mother before she climbed aboard.
“I was just thinking of you baby”
Geet smiled brightly. “Hey Mum, I’m just about to climb on aboard. I’ll be landing in about a day…”
“Oh that’s great. I really wish sometimes you didn’t have to be away for so many days”.
“It’s only been 3 days” Geet laughed.
“Hey baby girl” Suneel called out from the background.
“Hey dad” Geet chuckled loving the sound of him. “How’s he been mum?”
“Your father is well, he’s been accompanying me in the gym”
“Only to fight off the men” Suneel spoke taking the phone of Marissa.
“You sure it’s not to check out the ladies?” she teased.
“I only have eyes for your mother”
“Good answer” Marissa spoke taking the phone off Suneel. “Geet, your little boo has been asking for you”
“I’m coming to get him” Geet laughed. “I missed him so much”
“Mmhmm, I’ll tell him” Marissa answered. “Have a safe flight honey”
“I will, I’ll call you when I land”
“Tell me your flight number, we’ll come get you” Marissa suggested.
“It’s okay mum, I’ve left my car parked up so I’ll drive back. I’ll probably see you a day after that…” Geet trailed off.
“Why don’t you just come straight here? You can sleep in your old bedroom”
“I’ll think about it mum” Geet responded. “I’ve got to head off now, I’ll see you soon”
“Alright baby. Take care of yourself” Marissa replied cutting the call. Geet switched her phone off and climbed aboard preparing herself mentally for the long hour flight.
“Are you going to speak to her or shall I?” Marissa questioned Suneel.
“Let her rest for a while then we’ll speak to her” Suneel responded thoughtfully.
“What if she says no?” Marissa arched her brows.
“We’ll see when it comes to that. It’s going to be her decision” Suneel replied. “I don’t want to pressurise her but she isn’t so young anymore”
Marissa nodded in understanding and smiled.
Chapter 1
Hand stays bare
The sparkling diamond disappeared
But the feeling of the cold band remains even if it’s not seen.
Geet S Pearson was a beauty that attracted attention, good and bad.
She caught the eyes of many, but her eyes remained for only one.
Even if the one isn’t before her eyesight anymore.
She dreamed big and achieved them, some may even say she touched the sky with the tips of her fingers literally. Dressed immaculately in her uniform she stood at the front of her business class aisle offering her smile, a smile that was wide and very fake. Being in the business she was in, it was drilled into her brain that she must always smile. Always.
She ignored the lewd stares she’d received from the passengers and continued doing her job professionally, keeping smile maintained and swear inwardly. No one will hear her thoughts.
“Good morning ladies and gentlemen this is your captain speaking. We would like to welcome aboard Emirates Group Flight service 306 from New York to Delhi, India. Once we are airborne the flight time is 21 hours 25 minutes, we are not expecting any turbulence so it’d be a smooth flight all the way. Once again welcome to Emirates Group, we hope you enjoy your flight”
“Ashley, drinks” Geet pointed to the tray.
“Geet…” Kanchan hurried over to her side looking nervous.
“Please don’t tell me you’re having a panic attack again” Geet faced her friend.
“No, I… it’s these passengers. They’re not… they’re complaining about the woman behind them who’s breastfeeding her child” she murmured.
“Wait…” Geet her held her finger up and scrolled down the manifest she’d received from the flight agent. “Offer the lady seat 08A in business class, just say something like there’s a comfortable seat available for her here” she suggested.
“Alright thanks” Kanchan nodded and returned to her aisle.
“I’m starving…” Geet mumbled as Ashley returned to get some more drinks from the fridge. She pulled open the drawer and grabbed her container which she’d stuffed with fruits and crackers.
“Do you want this wrap?” Ashley asked grabbing one of her foiled homemade wrap.
“Yes, please” Geet nodded eagerly taking the wrap and pulled the foil apart from the top and bit into it. “I need to sleep so bad…” she murmured with her mouthful.
“Mmhmm… tell me about it” Ashley nodded and returned to her aisle leaving Geet in the kitchen area to eat peacefully.
Echoes so deafening
Shrapnel flying in different directions
Another aiming for him
“How are you feeling today?” Shirley asked gently.
“How do you think Shirley?” Maan answered with a question of his own.
“Any nightmares?” she looked down at her notes.
“You know it” he replied.
“As always Maan you’re not answering me properly” Shirley shook her head.
“As always Shirley, you’re always giving me the same old lines. I can’t believe I’m paying 25,000 per month for these 4 sessions” he responded.
“Maan” Shirley said his name warningly.
“Shirley” he repeated in the same tone.
“Did you do your breathing exercises like I suggested?” she asked.
“Yes”
“Did it help?”
“To calm myself down, yes” he nodded.
“Alright so there’s some progression from our last meeting” she jotted down the notes.
“If that’s what you call it” he murmured earning another narrowed teasing glare.
He simply offered a small smile.
“I can’t wait to speak to Gaurav” Shirley murmured quietly though loud enough for Maan to hear.
“Shirley please don’t be dragging my grandfather into this” Maan shook his head disapprovingly.
“Well you could speak properly instead of going around bushes” Shirley shrugged.
Maan glanced at his wrist watch and stood. “Our 30 minutes is over”
“But…” Shirley wanted to protest.
“I’ll see you in a week’s time” Maan offered a smile walking out her room.
“Breathing exercise and your notes” Shirley called out.
Maan chuckled to himself inwardly shaking his head as he left the office.
“Shirley called me” Gaurav spoke hearing the footsteps of his grandson enter the house.
“I expected her to” Maan replied walking over and taking a seat.
“You’ve not been answering her questions properly my son” Gaurav stares at him.
“I pay 25,000 rupees for 4 sessions, isn’t she supposed to give me advice and get over it?”
Gaurav shook his head disapprovingly. “That isn’t what a therapist does…” he paused.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Maan inquired.
“Your dadima got a few proposals…”
“No” Maan’s face tightened.
“Maan…” Gaurav said calmly.
“Please don’t dadaji” he shook his head breathing heavily. “And tell dadima to stop bringing these proposals” he stood walking away.
“Maan listen to me…” Gaurav stood to go after him.
“Give him some time alone” Savitri placed her hand on her husband’s shoulder silently consoling him knowing he was just as upset seeing that Maan was upset.
“What do we do Savitri?”
“We can only be there for him” she replied staring silently at her grandson.
“Did you call sir?” Geet approached the young man who’d pressed the bell a few times. She’d ignored him after the first time he’d called her over and asked for her number however he’d been pressing it insistently.
“How about that number darling?” he smiled teasingly at her trying to seem charming.
He wasn’t being charming at all, he looked like a daddy’s spoiled kid.
“I’m sorry but I don’t give my number out to children” she replied passing a bright widened smile and strutted away rolling her eyes inwardly.
“I want a complaints pack” the guy yelled out.
“Sort him out for me would you?” Geet handed Ashley a complaints pamphlet.
Ashley chuckled walking over to the guy and explained how to make a complaint then walked away.
“I want to sleep” Kanchan murmured as they stood in the kitchen area preparing hot drinks for some of the passengers.
“Tell me about it, only another 3 hours to go before lights out” Ashley jokingly fist pumped the air.
“Mmhmm” Geet nodded. “I think Yasmine’s preggers” she mumbled.
“How’d you know?” Ashley gasped in surprise.
“She’s got the hormones and a small bump” Geet informed.
“Has she told Brian?” Kanchan whispered.
“Do you think Brian would have let her fly if she did” Geet chuckled.
“She tell you?” Kanchan frowned.
“Nope, I told her I need to speak to her when she’s back in Mumbai” Geet responded. “She knows she can’t be working when she’s pregnant, she’s probably around 4 months or something” she shrugged. “After that, I’ll break it to Brian”
“That’d be a good idea” Ashley nodded.
“If you girls fall pregnant, let me know first please. I don’t want to be guessing” Geet turned to them.
“I’m not falling pregnant for another 5 years” Ashley informed. “I love my job and my life. Jamie isn’t ready either for kids…” she added.
“It’s so not fair man, I want to be married and have 2.5 kids and I don’t have that… and these two have it but don’t want it” Kanchan mumbled pouting her lips.
Geet chuckled shaking her head. “It’d happen one day…”
“I can’t believe Yasmine though, didn’t she just marry Ali about 6 months ago and she’s already pregnant…” Ashley laughed.
“We all knew she wanted kids straightaway so good for her…” Geet grinned. “Ali must be really good if he was able to knock her up so fast”
“Mmhmm…” they both hummed in agreement and Geet nudged them to go ahead and serve the hot drinks whilst she prepared the blankets to give out.
Maan knocked at the study door to let his Dadaji know of his presence however walked in without waiting for his permission. He knows his Dadaji does not like being disturbed in the evening, which he spends reading books and prefers referring as “me-time”. But he didn’t know where else to go now.
He has come to hate his time with any of his family members as they’ve only one topic to discuss about – his marriage.
A couple of years ago, he had looked forward to getting married and settling down. But things changed during last two years, time changed, and most importantly people change. He, of all, has most definitely changed.
He glanced at Dadaji sitting down on the sofa with the support of armrest and white walking cane. Finding a comfortable position he relaxed. Dadaji nodded his acknowledgement and continued reading his book which caused Maan to give a small smile.
Dadaji was the only person in the house with whom Maan felt comfortable with and being himself as he didn’t treat him any differently. Instead he was still the same strict, disciplined yet sweet loving Dadaji he had always known.
Maan very much enjoyed spending time with him even if it was spent in utter silence like moments like this. He didn’t like being so alone however he also didn’t like being around his family so much. Hence, he preferred silence over the chaos.
While Dadaji was always his inspiration and role model for as long as he could remember and he continues to remain so, Maan was more close to his Dadima amongst all.
However, in the last two years he has bonded with his Dadaji on an emotional level and they’ve become very close. It was only because of the man sitting in front of him that Maan regained some of the normalcy and stability back into his life.
Being with Dadaji meant he won’t be receiving sympathetic or sad looks.
Dadaji instead looked at him with pride in his eyes, although Maan wasn’t sure anymore if he has really done anything worth being proud of.
But it was a relief since Dadaji didn’t treat him like he was a three year old who needed help and guidance at every step he took.
“Where are you lost, son?” Dadaji asked Maan closing his book and removing his reading glasses.
Maan just shrugged in response.
“You know you can talk to me about anything” Dadaji started gently.
“I don’t know what to do about Dadima and mama. They keep persuading me. And I don’t like telling them off time and time again”. He sighed rubbing his face.
“Then stop denying them and start considering their options” Dadaji said with a small gentle smile.
“Not you now, please. How can you even support them knowing this bride hunting will leave us with the same result like before?” he asked exasperated.
“Maan, not everyone is same. And just because we’ve had couple of disappointing result doesn’t mean we give up and stop looking around. It doesn’t mean you give up. I will not take you as a quitter. So, stop this self-pitying and try to move on. I know you’re better than this. I’ve taught you to be brave and strong to face any situation.’” Dadaji responded sternly though compassionately.
“Anyway, it’s not your loss. It’s theirs. So, you’ve got nothing to be ashamed of. Now, get up and come downstairs. It’s time for dinner” Dadaji added getting up and walking towards the door leaving Maan behind to ponder over his words.
“And yes son, I don’t want to receive any calls from Shirley complaining about you not contributing to the sessions. You’re a grown-up man so behave like one. If I get another call from her again, we will be having words” Dadaji said with authority and finality in his voice as he looked straight in Maan’s eyes before walking out the room.
“Dear Lord…” Maan sighed heavily shaking his head. He had his mother on one side, his grandmother on the next followed by his grandfather and Shirley, all of them jumping down his throat in some way or the other.
“You do remember Geet might not be coming here?” Suneel asked as he watched his wife cleaning up her daughter’s old bedroom.
“And she just might” Marissa chuckled as she shuffled things around. She grabbed the photo frame from the dressing table and smiled.
Suneel wrapped his arms around his wife gently pressing a kiss to her temple. “She’s doing so well…” he looked down at the frame proudly.
Marissa hummed in agreement brushing her fingers across her daughter’s smile.
“Tara and Sean will be coming tomorrow” Suneel informed.
“That’s great. Geet will definitely come home then” she turned around to face Suneel grinning widely.
Marissa Pearson met her husband 36 years ago in college, she was 17yrs old at the time whereas Suneel was 18yrs old. Their initial friendship changed to love and affection for one another. The only issue for them at the time was their races, Marissa Pearson belonged to the Christian white family whilst Suneel belonged to an indian family.
Back in their days interracial marriage was frowned upon, it still sometimes and some people see it as odd even now.
But luckily, they weren’t tied down by ideology and cultural traditions, both families had talked to each other over the phone as Suneel’s parents lived oceans away in India whereas Marissa’s had settled in America after their shift from England. Both families were open and shared a mutual respect which made it easy for their kids to marry and love one another.
At aged 18yrs old, smitten by her husband she had tied the knot. A year later they had welcomed their first daughter, followed by their second 3 years later. Both their daughters had their mother’s beauty and the intelligence of their father. A little over a decade however, they had to make the move to India due to Suneel’s mother’s ill health. At age 32 in 1997, she had uprooted and followed her husband. There were highs and lows that came with the change, but they ploughed forward holding each other’s hand facing every storm that came their way.
“Hey Papa when is Gigi coming?” Nick called running into the room. He halted looking between them. “Eurgh are you kissing? I’m going to tell Gigi I saw you kissing”
“Wait here, you little monkey” Suneel released his wife and ran chasing his grandson.
Nick screamed running around whilst being chased whilst Marissa watched them both, admiring her husband and her grandson together as they played around.
Chapter 2
Mask in place
Smile as always
No one will know the facade
Geet pulled the curtains closed to where she sat, majority of the passengers were fast asleep and her colleagues were catching some sleep as well with few agreeing to stay awake whilst they attended to the few passengers who remain awake.
They were going to be landing very soon in Mumbai and her excitement peaked. It’d been only 3 days but she missed her family whenever she flew.
She grabbed her bag pulling out her wipes and makeup, she wiped her face with the cool wipes and applied a fresh new layer of makeup soon after.
It was important to keep appearances fresh and immaculate always, there shouldn’t be a time where you seem dishevelled especially when attending to passengers.
Feeling a little refreshed she packed away her things back into her handbag and stood walking over to the drawer and grabbed herself a protein bar feeling starved. Unfortunately for the crew, they receive the same meals as the passengers – food that comes in foiled containers. Many tend to bring their own food or homecooked meals, however sometimes they tend to forget like Geet did here. She’d brought some fruits and managed to snag some protein bars on the way to the airport but was in such a hurry she’d forgotten to get herself a few sandwiches.
She snagged a bottle of water from the fridge and ate her protein bar quietly, keeping herself alert should any passengers press the call button.
Avoid mirrors they were brutal reminders
Of his failure
His damaged skin were a mark of shame
Rather than a mark of pride.
Maan Khurana was a man of discipline and principal. He followed a simple set of rules in his life, and that could’ve been due to having a grandfather who’d once been a General in the Indian Army. He’d once aimed to be like his grandfather however fate decided different. He didn’t regret it though.
He simply wished the nightmares weren’t of his failure.
He sat in his home office for a few moments before dinner wanting to go through his email, being a federal government security analyst it was important he was always available in case of an emergency. He ran through some vital checks as usual and went through any emails he’d received. Replying to his colleagues regarding some suspected emails they’d received he locked his laptop and grabbed his cane. He stood with the support of his cane and walked out of his office.
Kartik was sat with a laptop in front of him, with his mother and Dadima occupying the two seats besides him, when Maan paused and stood watching them all from the first floor landing.
He watched his Dadaji join them on the opposite sofa and pick the remote to switch on the TV. From where he was stood, he could see that Dadaji had switched on to a football match.
He tried to see what his brother and the two women were doing, but failed to catch a glimpse as all three had their heads in the laptop. He just hoped they were not considering some potential brides’ profile on the matrimonial sites. He’d had enough listening to his mother and grandmother going on and on about brides. He could swear he could hear their voices even in his sleep.
“Kartik, stop looking into your phone and tell me what do you think of this one?” Rhea asked her youngest son making Maan sigh in irritation.
Maan instantly wanted to retrace his steps and lock himself in his room rather than go down and sit amidst them and listen to the qualifications and occupation of some girl. Or worse, listen to their opinions and praises on how beautiful the girl looked in her profile picture.
“Just a sec mama” Kartik replied.
Kartik then went on to open another tab and open his Instagram account. As the page got loaded, he typed a name and opened someone’s profile.
“Who’s she?” Dadima asked.
“She is a model” Kartik answered, not once shifting his gaze from the picture he has just opened.
“Who’s the girl with her?” Rhea fired next question at him.
“Mama, will you let me look at the picture in peace?” Kartik asked annoyed at the interruption. They weren’t letting him drool over his latest crush’s new Instagram update.
“Shut up. And tell me who is the girl with her” Dadima smacked on his head.
“She’s got such beautiful blue eyes”. Rhea commented.
Having heard enough of the nonsense, Maan turned to go when his Dadaji asked him to join them for dinner. Seeing as he had no other choice, he started descending the stairs at a snail pace, wanting to delay getting down.
“She is an interior designer”. Kartik finally replied knowing it was better to give them what they wanted than making them angry. He decided he will look at his crush’s picture when he is alone and there is no one throwing questions at him disturbing his thoughts.
“That’s nice. A woman gifted with skills in designing homes”. Dadima said sounding pleased. “Is she single?” she questioned curiously.
“How would I know Dadima?” Kartik shook his head. “Not everyone posts their life online” he rolled his eyes.
“Then how did you know she is an interior designer?” Rhea asked confused.
“Mama, it says that in the tags here”. Kartik huffed.
“Don’t be huffing at me” Rhea twisted his ear.
“Dadaji” Kartik whined.
“You deserve it son” Gaurav chuckled. “You know very well not to mess with these ladies”
“Yes, Kartik” Dadima joined in. “You should listen and take notes down” she smirked glancing at her husband.
“Okay meri ma… please please let go of my ear” he pleaded pouting his lips.
Rhea shook her head and released his ear. “Remember it my darling son, or else I’d be ripping it off next time” she narrowed her eyes.
“Yaar where is dad when I need him?” he murmured knowing for sure his dad would’ve sided with him.
“This woman looks so elegant and graceful in that business attire. I like how she carried herself. One can see the confidence and pride in her eyes. I’m sure she will be perfect for our Maan. I can already imagine these two together”. Dadima gave her two cents returning her eyes on the woman they’d been admiring a moment ago.
“You got to know all that just looking at a picture. How?” Kartik asked incredulously.
“Experienced eyes, my son” Dadaji answered instead, winking at his wife.
Listening to his wife rave about the woman who caught her eye, Gaurav had walked around and a taken a look at the woman himself. And he must say he liked what he saw. The woman indeed had a spark and there was a certain charm to her.
Maan got curious having seen his Dadaji take interest in the drama that was unfolding in the living room for the first time and reluctantly moved towards the sofa to see what all the commotion was about.
What he saw caused his heart to skip a beat and he stood rooted to his spot. There was a woman who looked no less than a dream. Dressed in a white sleeveless jumpsuit she looked almost angelic, her pretty looking curls left open with some of the strands kissing her face, she looked breathtakingly gorgeous. The white colour complimented her fair complexion and it made her blue eyes look more prominent.
He couldn’t guess if the colour of her eyes were naturally blue or if she was wearing contact lenses. He wished he could brush his fingers along her face to see if her skin was as smooth as it seemed in the picture.
His train of thoughts would have continued if not for his Dadaji asking the name of the woman who has taken the Khurana household by storm.
“It says Geet Pearson” Kartik responded after he checked the name tags on the picture. “Her Instagram account is private though” he added.
“Alright, try to find some details about her if you can” he suggested and glanced around. “Now all of you come and have dinner. We’re already late” Dadaji told them.
Kartik left his laptop and moved towards dining area telling Maan to follow.
Maan, who had been in kind of a stupor, snapped out of his thoughts and frowned.
What the hell! His family’s craziness was rubbing off him. And where did all these stupid thoughts come to his mind?
He couldn’t believe his family was now looking at random girls’ pictures on internet and collecting all the details.
“Maan, for how long do you plan to keep standing there? Come and have dinner” Rhea gestured to the table.
Maan shook his head as if shaking all the thoughts of the woman out of his mind and walked towards the dining table and took his place. He involved himself in the conversation which thankfully wasn’t related to his marriage.
Geet stood with her smile in place as she thanked the passengers as they climbed down the steps and left. Her smile still stayed in place when some of the passengers that she’d cleverly avoided winked, though mentally she was cursing them and wished they tripped over the steps and broke their legs.
Once the passengers left, the crew grabbed their belongings and climbed down, the cleaning crew already waiting at the bottom to get to work once everyone leaves.
“Want to grab a few drinks?” Jamie asked glancing around.
“How can you be up for a drink?” Ashley nudged him. “We’ve been flying for so long. I just want to sleep” she rested her head on his shoulder as they walked inside.
“What time are you guys flying back tomorrow?” Geet questioned.
“We set off tomorrow at 9.25pm” Jamie answered. “You’re lucky you’re living here so you’ve got no more flying for another 3 days?”
“Actually I’m off for a week, booked it off an extra 3 days” Geet replied and glanced at Kanchan. “Do you want me to give you a lift?” she asked.
“No, I’ve told my dad to come already so he’d be here” she shook her head.
“I can’t believe you’re still living with your parents” Ashley chuckled.
“Whatever” Kanchan rolled her eyes.
“Alright lovelies… I’ll catch you all later” Geet hugged them quickly and walked towards the parking area. She smiled as she glanced at her phone screen and answered the phone.
“Hey mum, I’ve just landed” she informed before Marissa even said something.
“Are you coming down here?” Marissa questioned happily.
“Mum I am so knackered” Geet groaned climbing into the car and buckling in. “I promise, tomorrow evening…”
“Sean and Tara are here” Marissa informed.
“You called them over didn’t you?” Geet laughed.
“Baby girl I’ve not seen you in a…”
“Hiiii Gigi!!!!” Nick screamed into the phone. “I’m waiting”
“Hey boo” Geet grinned widely loving the sound of his adorable cute self. “I’m on my way baby” she told him.
“I’ve made you cake with papa” he responded as he paced around the room like his Papa. “Papa let me lick the icing off the bowl”
“Oh did he now?” Geet responded placing her phone on speakerphone and slid it into her iPhone holder and started the car. “What else did you do with Papa?”
Geet listened as Nick went on about the stuff he’d been up to, she could’ve listened to her boo all day and night if she’d had the option.
“Mind if I talk now monkey?” Suneel ruffled Nick’s hair.
“Papa I’m talking to Gigi. You’re going to have to wait” Nick frowned and climbed onto the sofa stretching his legs out. “And you know Gigi I got 30 percent in my spellings” he grinned proudly.
“Boo, you do know that isn’t good” Geet chuckled.
“That isn’t? Papa told me…”
“Boo give it to Papa would you for a moment? Gigi needs to shout”
“Papa here, Gigi wants to shout!” Nick held out the phone.
“I didn’t say anything” Suneel spoke into the phone.
“You aren’t fooling me dad” Geet chuckled. “You’re supposed to help him do better and not say he’s done well. 30 percent is rubbish”
“He didn’t do that bad. The teacher knocked marks off for his bad writing”
“I heard that Papa” Nick frowned crossing his small arms in front of him.
“Where’s Tara?” Geet asked.
“Helping your mother make grilled salmon and Greek salad” Suneel informed.
“Right I’m speeding up now” Geet grinned. “I’m starving. Tell mum to add lots of olives and avocado” she added.
“Alright I will, come home quick” Suneel chuckled.
Geet said her bye and cut the call.
“Stop eating the avocados” Tara smacked Sean’s hand frowning disapprovingly.
“What?” Sean rolled his eyes. “Geet should stop trying to copy me”
“You only liked avocado after she forced you to try the guacamole” Tara reminded.
Marissa laughed looking between her daughter and son in law. “Sean, set up the table please” she cut in noting Sean wanted to reply with a snarky response.
“Nice save” Sean winked at Marissa.
“He’s just trying to piss me off now” Tara scowled.
“Calm down love” Sean mocked. “I don’t want you to blow your top off”
“Mum!” Tara turned to Marissa.
“Sean, leave” Marissa pointed to the dining area.
“Okay dokey” Sean smirked turning to leave.
Grabbing an avocado from the bowl Tara aimed and hit his head.
“Tara” Sean gasped rubbing his head. “I swear down pregnancy makes you mad”
“You’re making me mad” Tara rested her hands on her hips narrowing her eyes.
“Alright football, I’m going” Sean laughed.
“That’s it…” Tara snapped ready to go give him a blasting, Marissa quickly intervened.
“Tara it’s not good for the baby. You know what Sean is like, you let him get to you” she brushed her daughter’s cheek.
“He’s such an arse! I can’t believe I love this dork” Tara huffed.
“Sean what did you do to upset my daughter?” Suneel walked into the kitchen gathering Tara into his arms and hugged her.
“He’s such an arse” Tara complained. “He keeps calling me football”
“Sean…” Suneel shook his head.
“Dad, you seriously need to come live with us and see why I call her that” Sean walked in laughing holding Nick in his arms.
“Leave baby mama alone” Geet appeared smacking Sean on his shoulder.
“Hey baby girl” Sean threw his arm around her and hugged her tightly.
“Gigi” Nick screamed throwing his arms around Sean as well as Geet.
“C’mere” Geet took Nick off Sean and hugged him tightly. “Missed my boo so much” she pressed kisses after kisses on his face. Once she’d given Nick his share of kisses, she hugged her parents and Tara tightly.
Once they’d shared a few words, Geet excused herself wanting to quickly change out of her uniform before they sat down to eat.
“What are you thinking about?” Gaurav joined Maan on the sofa.
“I’m just cursing my fate for giving me my mother and dadima” he responded.
“And why are you cursing your fate for having these amazing women?” Gaurav chuckled in amusement.
“They don’t have an off switch” he murmured. “As soon as dad came home, they went on and on about getting me married” he rubbed his palm over his face.
Gaurav chuckled “They aren’t going to stop son until they see you married so its best to accept their determination and go along with it. Believe me son, I learned the hard way”
“And till date your dadaji regrets that one time” Savitri laughed walking into the living area and settled on the sofa.
“Please don’t bruise me in front of our grandchildren” Gaurav looked at his wife sweetly.
“Dadaji nobody would believe us if we said you were once a general” Kartik settled by dadima’s feet resting his head on her lap. “You can go up against anything but not dadima” he laughed.
“I can also crush you with one hand” Gaurav mockingly glared.
Maan laughed.
“What are you laughing at bhai?” Kartik scowled.
“Don’t even think about starting on me Kartik, you’re going to lose” Maan replied.
“Fine, let’s go an arm wrestle”
“Kartik didn’t you learn your lesson last time?” Rajeev shook his head at his son. “You want to break your other fingers as well?”
“Great, why don’t you all gang up on me?” Kartik huffed.
Chapter 3
False promises
Don’t have expectations
It hurts when you’re disappointed
“Where’s Tara?” Marissa entered the living room glancing around as she placed the tray of coffees on the table whilst Suneel followed in with a few sweet desserts.
“She’s gone to put Nick to sleep” Sean answered grabbing himself a coffee.
“God… mum why do you bring desserts out for?” Geet huffed.
“One small piece of cheesecake won’t hurt” Suneel chuckled helping himself to a chocolate mousse.
“I made you this” Marissa picked up the bowl. “It’s toasted oats with mango and yoghurt” she informed.
“Ooh that’s good” Geet smiled taking the bowl and grabbing a spoon. “How have things been whilst I was away?” she questioned staring at her mother.
“You’ve only just come back, you want to talk work already?” Marissa rolled her eyes at her daughter. “Eat up and rest”
“Alright” Geet shrugged and grabbed the remote switching the tv on. “Anything new with you and Tara?” she glanced at Sean curiously.
“Other than football being moody, everything’s been good” he replied.
“I hate him” Tara joined them scowling at Sean.
“I love you too sweets” Sean grinned widely.
“Dadddd” She turned to Suneel.
“I’m tired” he flopped his head back closing his eyes making everyone laugh.
“Leave her alone” Geet smacked Sean then turned to Tara. “Nick asleep?”
“Yeah, just about. He wanted his little boo to take him out for a drive” Tara chuckled.
“I’ll take him out tomorrow or something. I’m off for a week now until then” she informed.
“Thank goodness for that, you’re staying here” Marissa told her.
“I’m guessing that isn’t a request” she smirked.
“No darling, it isn’t”
“Mum I expect this from like typical mothers but you…”
“Geet Pearson do not piss me off”
“Suneel Shergill, you need to tame your wife. She’s looking at me like she’s going to kill me” Geet turned to her father mimicking her mother’s tone making Sean and Tara burst out laughing.
“Why you little…” Marissa shook her head glancing over at her husband. “Thanks for spoiling her”
“When they do something bad, they’re my daughters and when they’re good they’re yours” Suneel sat up straighter. “And Geet…” he turned to his youngest daughter. “That isn’t a way to speak to your mother young lady” he answered trying to keep a straight face but seeing his daughter snicker he laughed.
“Suneel” Marissa smacked his arm.
“Yaar mujhe hi dosh dena band karo” he spoke.
“Whatever the hell that means, back at you” Marissa scowled at her husband. “And stop saying that word yaar, I am not a street tomboy friend”
“Go home Geet” Suneel turned to his daughter. “Whenever you’re here I’m always in the dog house”
“Excuse me, it’s not me” Geet laughed.
“It is so you” Tara nodded her head agreeing with her father.
“Serious Tar, you’re siding with dad. Hoes before bros sis” she waved.
“And where was hoes before bros when you chose to side with Sean and Nick the other week teasing me?” Tara arched her brows.
“What? I was being honest. That dress made you look like Quasimodo”
“Stop teasing me about my weight bitch” Tara scowled looking hurt.
“What?.”.. Geet laughed unable to hold back. “I’m joking” she leaned forward pressing a kiss to Tara’s cheek. “I love you sis”
“I don’t like you right now” Tara replied looking away.
“I know” Geet winked. “You love me”
Screams never stop
Tears continuing streaming down
Helplessness settles within
I failed
Maan jerked upright looking around his room, he listened for a noise but there was pin drop silence. Once again it was just his nightmare.
The images of those nights so clear, they seemed to have embedded into his memory.
He couldn’t get them out, he tried to push them away but they return every night reminding him of some of the harshest days he’d witnessed.
His eyes drew to the clock and noticed it was early morning, knowing he wouldn’t be able to sleep he climbed out of bed wincing slightly as he put pressure on his left leg and limped into the bathroom.
After he’d done his morning routine, he dressed grabbed his white cane to support him and walked downstairs. Nobody else seemed to be awake at this time, the living room seemed empty and there wasn’t any noise coming from the dining room nor the kitchen.
“You’re awake pretty early?” Rajeev smiled down at his son as he climbed downstairs. “Are you okay?” he asked placing his hand on his son’s shoulder.
“Yeah I’m fine” he answered. “Are you going somewhere?” he asked noticing Rajeev was all dressed, he didn’t have to be in work until 10am and it was only nearing 7am.
“I was going to get some breakfast” Rajeev replied smiling. “You know I cannot cook for the life of me and your mother is still sleeping” he added.
“Want me to cook something up for you?” Maan chuckled.
“No, how about we both go and enjoy some breakfast together? We can bring back some doughnuts and coffee back for everyone” he suggested to which Maan agreed to.
Wake up
Glance around
Side is empty
And you realise what is lost
“Sleep well?” Suneel looked up at his daughter as she walked into the dining room.
“Mmhmm” Geet nodded. “Where is everyone?” she glanced around.
“Tara and Sean left last night, they have to open up the bar today so couldn’t stay” Suneel explained.
“Damn… I never go to say bye” Geet murmured.
“Your little boo is still here, he refused to go home” Suneel laughed.
“He playing?” she stood glancing out the window and grinned seeing Nick riding his small quad bike. “He looks so cute” she sat back down grabbing a toast. “Where’s mum?” she asked noting her mother wasn’t anywhere to be seen.
“Shower” Suneel replied.
“Oh… Can you make me scrambled eggs then?” she asked.
“You’re going to have to learn cooking one day love” Suneel shut the newspaper and stood grabbing a pan and opened the fridge pulling the tray of eggs out.
“I’m busy” she explained in two words.
“Excuses, excuses” Suneel rolled his eyes. “C’mon up, I want you to watch”
“Daddd” Geet frowned. “I’m not getting up”
“It’s supposed to be your turn to cook me stuff and I’m still cooking for you” he shook his head.
“Whatever” Geet buttered her toast and poured herself a cup of coffee. “I want pepper in my scrambled eggs” she told him over her shoulder.
“Anything else?” he sighed.
“Yeah, can you pass me an avocado from the bowl?” she held her hand out.
“Enjoying yourself darling?” Marissa walked in grabbing the avocado and passing it to Geet then turned to her husband.
“You should’ve let her go back to her apartment” Suneel responded.
“You’re really enjoying it” Marissa grinned pressing a kiss to his lips then turned to Geet. “Morning, how did you sleep?” she bent down pressing a kiss to Geet’s temple.
“Great” she sipped her coffee. “I am still tired though”
“Mmhmm, flying constantly will make you feel like that” Marissa nodded stealing a glance at Suneel, they’d both spoken about Geet last night and had concluded they were going to speak to her today.
Physical appearance is what is seen
Behind each mark is a story
That no one wishes to listen to
They simply come to their own conclusion
“How are your appointments going?” Rajeev asked as he and Maan settled in a corner booth of their local cafe.
“Shirley not so well” Maan smiled. “But the physiotherapy is going great”
“What’s going on with Shirley? I thought she was great” Rajeev looked curious.
“I don’t know dad” Maan sighed. “I don’t like speaking about everything but every time I go to see her, it’s like she’s wanting to cut me open and just wants to express everything. I don’t even know where to start sometimes” he explained.
“Son, I can’t say that I understand what you’re feeling when you’re facing her and are having to speak about stuff, you’d like to forget but I would only suggest you try. Start by telling her small things, things that you liked previously then go from there” Rajeev answered. “Like I said though, I’ve not seen the life you’ve seen. Maybe if I had chosen the same career path, I might have been able to help you” he sighed.
“I’m happy you’d chosen something you love; you’ve done a pretty great job with the business” Maan reassured, he offered an uneasy smile when the waitress came with their order. Maan noticed the glances he’d received and her hesitation as she placed them down and hurried away. He felt his heart sink wondering whether this feeling would go away. Would there ever come a time when he’s not so outed from the community?
“Rudra called yesterday evening after you’d gone to bed” Rajeev recalled.
“Oh, did he say anything?” Maan inquired grabbing his grilled sandwich and ate.
“He’ll be hosting a barbeque this weekend and wanted you to come over” he informed. “It’s a small get together” he added.
“I’ll call him later and speak to him” Maan replied. “How’s work?”
Memories is all you have left
The positive overcomes the negative
A desire to feel that feeling once again arises now and then…
But the heart accepts that some people aren’t just cut out for that feeling.
I didn’t know how to hold onto it.
“Nick, come inside now. Watch some cartoons” Suneel called opening the back door.
“Aww” Geet pouted lifting her nephew into her arms. “We want to play some more”
“Geet, bring him inside” Suneel waved over. “He’s been out playing, he needs to hydrate and rest”
“Papa Neel” Nick whined. “I wanted to play with my Gigi” he wrapped his arms around Geet’s neck holding her tightly.
“Gigi will play in a little while” Suneel answered ruffling his grandson’s hair. “Go and drink up your milk and eat your snacks” he pointed to the bowl of fruits Marissa had laid out for her grandson.
Geet put Nick down to his little feet and he went running into the living room sitting on the floor grabbing his milk and fruits, his eyes immediately drawn to the tv.
Geet was going to join and settle for a while when Suneel spoke.
“Follow me?” he gestured to his office.
“Uh, yeah sure” Geet looked curious and walked in. “It’s not something serious is it?” she asked. “Mum…” she looked surprised seeing Marissa already in the office waiting.
“Guys…” Geet looked between her parents. “What’s going on?”
“Sit down” Marissa patted the seat beside her offering a gentle smile.
Geet nodded settling down and turned to her face her mother whilst her father settled on the arm of the chair facing her.
“Baby” Marissa took her daughter’s hand smiling. “There was a few proposals that came…” she started.
“No” Geet stood immediately shaking her head.
“Listen to your mother Geet” Suneel told her.
“I don’t want to get married” Geet sat back down looking away from her parents.
“Baby listen to us” Marissa cradled her cheek and turned her head towards them. “We’re your parents, we don’t want anything bad for you”
“Your mother’s right Geet. We both love you, all we’re saying is just see them and see if you both have some common ground and we’ll go from there” Suneel added.
“You don’t get it, I don’t want to get married. After marriage what if the family expects me to… leave my job for them?” she huffed. “What if he expects me to cook and clean like those… indian weird serial actresses that die a thousand times?”
Marissa snickered covering her mouth immediately, this was an important conversation.
“Just meet them” Suneel sighed. “You don’t have to say yes, or anything. At least meet them” he stressed.
“You’re using your no argument tone” Geet scowled.
“You’re right I am” Suneel rolled his eyes. “I’m not saying I’m going to get you married straightaway…”
“Dad pleas…”
“Geet, good proposals are far and few these days” Suneel cut her off. “And you being 31years old and single isn’t quite common around here”
“Geet you wanted to find someone yourself to marry but you’re not even trying” Marissa reminded.
“I’m busy, hello. Are you both hearing?” she frowned.
“Excuses, excuses again” Marissa shook her head disapprovingly.
“Are we done now?” she crossed her arms furrowing her brows.
“Just say you’ll think about it” Suneel responded.
“Alright, fine. Dear God! You both just don’t stop” she stood shaking her head.
“You never know, you might just find the one” Marissa winked.
Doubt it Geet thought inwardly but didn’t say anything else.
Chapter 4
Not all dreams come true
That doesn’t mean that you stop dreaming.
“Pearson is in the building!” Shibhani yelled out.
“Hide the food” Aryan hissed grabbing the take out containers.
“Zarina” Shibhani hissed noticing her continuing to sit and not help.
“I don’t know why you lot are running about, Marissa’s not going to eat you up” Zarina rolled her eyes.
“Do you think we’d care if it was mama Pearson?” Shaira walked over rolling her eyes. “It’s Geet who’s back”
“Oh” Zarina tensed. “I’m so behind with my client” she covered her mouth. “She’s going to chew me up” she stood looking for her client’s file. “I’m booking an appointment so I don’t have to see her, it’s not like she’s going to be here much long. I mean she’s got to be back tomorrow or so for her flight right?”
“It’s your lucky week” Geet informed glancing around the office. “I’m off till next week” she winked.
“Hey Geet” Zarina plastered a wide smile.
“I invented the fake smile so it doesn’t work on me” Geet rolled her eyes and looked around at her team. “Aryan, seriously? Take outs?”
“Well we all can’t be fitness gurus” Aryan sighed.
Geet shook her head disapprovingly and walked past them. “Send Adhira to my office”
“It is so not fair man! She has like 13 days off in the whole month” Zarina murmured.
“And yet instead of partying and resting, she comes here to lecture” Aryan sighed.
“I’m going to do a side course and become an air stewardess” Shaira piped in.
“I’ll join you” Shibhani chuckled.
“You called Geet?” Adhira knocked on entering the office.
“Just give me a brief update of the clients that they’ve got this month” Geet told her offering a small smile then returned to her files on her desk.
Whilst Adhira rattled on the updates, Geet unwrapped her bouquet she bought and started arranging them properly and placed them in a vase.
She walked over to the window releasing the lock and opened it widely smiling as she glanced outside.
“Saima put in a request for maternity leave” Adhira continued down her list. “Interns are to be interviewed for Saima’s replacement cover and for Shravan”
“Shravan?” Geet inquired. “Where has he gone?”
“Uh he resigned two weeks ago” Adhira replied. “His father was diagnosed with cancer so they’d moved to USA for treatment”
“Oh, okay” Geet nodded. “Anything else?”
“Rishi called in sick today”
“And what was his reasoning this time?” Geet rolled her eyes.
“Nose bleed and he was under the weather… something like that” Adhira mumbled.
“This is 4th sick over the last few months?” She arched her brows.
“Yes”
“Alright…” Geet pulled out her phone flicking through her schedule. “Book him in for a meeting this Thursday at 2pm”
“When he asks what it’s for?” Adhira quizzed as she jotted down some notes.
“Tell him it’s his disciplinary meeting for his absence” Geet responded. “He read the contract when he joined my business”
Adhira nodded. “Would you like anything else?”
“No” Geet shook her head. “How’s the office been?”
“Uneventful” she chuckled.
“How’s your little ones?”
“With my rotten apple of a husband” she sighed.
“I am always advising you to go see Sherryl, she’s one of the best attorneys working here” Geet laughed.
“Where would I go with my kids?” Adhira sighed pulling out a chair and sat down. “At 37 years old, it’s going to be difficult being single and bringing the kids up alone”
“I understand but that doesn’t mean you have some b*stard drag you down” Geet replied. “Adhira you also need to think about your children. Is Vijay the sort of father you want your kids to see as a role model?”
“I can’t do it at this age, my kids still need a daddy even if it is a rotten one” Adhira murmured.
Geet nodded though she disapproved her colleague/friend’s way of seeing things, her friend had a point, at that age it was surely going to be difficult especially here in India where the woman is supposed to keep the peace in the marriage and compromise at every turn.
One’s personality is shown through their actions not their physical beauty.
Why is it that assumptions are made when one looks at me?
Judge me not by my face but my actions.
“I want an omelette please” Kartik called out noticing Maan in the kitchen.
“You’re old enough to make it yourself” Maan replied.
“Bhai, can you do that one little thing for your baby brother?” Kartik offered a small sad smile in the hopes of getting an omelette.
“Beg then”
“Bhai” Kartik scowled.
“Your plates there already” Maan smirked.
“Bloody heck bhai” he huffed grabbing his plate and headed into the dining room.
Maan shook his head grabbing his plate and walked out the kitchen, his cane tapping against the black floor tiles almost as if reminding him… He pushed away the memories far behind and instead of moving towards the dining room to join the others he moved in the direction of his home office.
“Son, breakfast time includes you” Gaurav spoke noticing his grandson.
“I’ve got Aaron calling me in 10 minutes dadaji” Maan glanced over his shoulder. “I wouldn’t be able to join you today”
Gaurav wasn’t too happy but understood, with Maan working as a federal government analyst he was going to be needed at odd hours.
“Just call if you need us” Gaurav responded nodding his head.
Maan turned and continued in the direction of his office.
He sighed in relief placing the plate down and grabbing his headset. “Speak to me guys, what do you need?” he spoke.
“Maan I need you to find out if there’s anyone with the initials K.B in the area” Jason replied. “He’s a person of interest”
“What’s the crime?” Maan questioned as he tapped rapidly taking in all the information.
“We think he might behind kidnappings of these teen boys” Aaron answered this time.
“Okay, what years are we looking at? Because my results have come up with over a thousand” Maan responded as he clicked away.
“25years to 40” Neema replied.
“7 possible matches” Maan responded as he received the results. “I’ll fax them over to you now” he replied.
“Thanks Maan, we’ll get back to you soon” Aaron thanked and cut the call.
Maan returned to his files flicking through unsolved cases whilst he ate his breakfast.
“Maan” Gaurav tapped on the door just to let him know he was here, he didn’t want to startle his grandson.
“Yeah, dadaji?” Maan answered continuing to focus on the screen in front of him.
“Son, you’ve been in here for 3 hours now” Gaurav reminded.
“I’m coming out in a little while, Kartik has already called me for lunch” he replied, he paused when Gaurav didn’t respond and looked over. “Did you need anything?”
“No, nothing” Gaurav smiled as he looked around the office then turned to Maan. “Seeing you work pleases me” he touched Maan’s shoulder.
“I enjoy it” Maan replied gently.
“Not as much as before I suppose?”
“I don’t regret a moment, I miss it but I’m still helping here” Maan smiled, he turned for a brief moment locking up the screens and stood. “What’s mama cooked for lunch?”
“It was your dadima today” Gaurav responded.
“Dear Lord…” Maan shook his head.
“You’ll be okay son, it’s me I’m worried about. I’ve got a poor immune system, you can already guess I’ll be upstairs clutching on to my stomach”
“I heard that” Savitri glowered at her husband.
“Maa, papa is joking” Rajeev spoke in the hopes of soothing his mother.
“Tell your papa he isn’t allowed lunch” Savitri looked at her son.
“Savitri dear, you already know I love your cooking. It wasn’t your beauty that made its way to my heart, it was your delicious food” Gaurav spoke and winked at his wife.
“Eurgh” Kartik scrunched his nose. “Please don’t flirt in front of me, you’re all old. It doesn’t suit you”
“Just wait till you’re old” Rhea smacked her son’s head.
“Whatever” he rolled his eyes. “By the way I found some information about that woman” he smiled as he looked into his phone.
“Which woman?” Rajeev questioned.
“This woman that was with my angel, Mama wanted to know a bit more about her” Kartik responded. “She’s an interior designer, owns the business P.D - Pearson Designs” he clicked on the website link. “She’s done some really fantastic designing. I love her blue rain drop tiles in the bathrooms she’d designed” he showed his family the pictures.
Not again Maan thought inwardly taking his seat at the table and watched his family silently as they stood behind Kartik as he rambled on.
“She designed that actress’s home as well?” Rhea asked curiously noticing an actress posing beside Geet with a big smile.
“Yeah” Kartik nodded.
“She’s beautiful” Rhea smiled. “It’s all fine with looking at the girl, but we should try to find about her family” she suggested. “It’s not going to be right if we’re looking at only her and finding out everything to only learn she’s married or something”
“You’re right” Gaurav nodded. “I’ll ask around and maybe we’ll find at least her father’s name”
Dear Lord… Maan dipped his head down sighing. “Lunch is getting cold” he cut in as they continued to speak amongst themselves.
“Oh, yes” Gaurav smiled. “Everyone sit now, Kartik you can stop looking around. I’ve got some friends who might know a thing or two about interior designing”
Silent mouths
Cracking hearts
But that still didn’t push us to open up
“Shibhani I asked you for your client update” Geet rested her hands on her hips.
“I… I didn’t check in with my client for the last 2 weeks” Shibhani confessed.
“What?” Geet stared. “Shibhani we’ll lose clients just like that if you don’t see them” she clicked her fingers. “You need to update them, at least every two days. You need to meet them at least once in the week to show them how the house is coming along”
“I know” Shibhani mumbled. “I just… I’m far behind with some clients and these stupid distributors, suppliers were delaying and…payment went wrong”
“If you were on an airplane right now, I would’ve liked to kick you out of it” Geet replied shaking her head. “I can’t believe this. Did you speak to my mum about it?”
“She did ask me for an update but I was scared she was going to tell you so each time she’d call me I lied…”
“I think I’m having a migraine” Geet touched her forehead.
“I’m sorry Geet” Shibhani frowned looking and feeling guilty and upset. “I just didn’t want to disappoint you. I’ve been doing so well last month, I hoped everything will go smoothly”
“Shibhani we’re working in an industry where nothing goes smoothly” Geet straightened pacing her office. “Interior designing isn’t easy as everyone may seem to think. It’s difficult, we work in the direction of our clients. When you’re working in the direction of clients, it’s difficult to give them their specific vision but here we’re aiming to do just that” Geet explained. “Look, I’ll let you off this month because of the money you brought into the business last month. But I need to at least finish one project this month, change suppliers, fire whoever but make some progress”
“I will, I promise” Shibhani nodded.
“Good…” Geet nodded. “Send in Aryan now, tell him to get me the Mehra file”
“Okay” Shibhani grabbed her files and walked out looking at Aryan. “Mehra’s file and good luck… you’re going to need it”
Aryan stared upwards “Please don’t let her shout at me as well, I promise to do a good deed once a day” he straightened and walked into Geet’s office.
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