Journey post separation-Poddar family-Part 10 on Page 9 (02.09.2024) - Page 9

Part- 9

Armaan's career as a freelance lawyer began with uncertainty, but it didn't take long for him to find his stride. Away from the shadows of the Poddar family and their legacy, he discovered a renewed sense of purpose. The freedom to choose his cases, work at his own pace, and build his reputation on his own terms was liberating.

His first few clients were small businesses and individuals who had heard of his reputation as a sharp, reliable lawyer. Word spread quickly about his meticulous work ethic, his ability to dissect complex legal issues, and his dedication to his clients. Armaan's name soon became synonymous with trust and excellence in legal circles.

He took on cases that challenged him, ones that larger firms often overlooked. His passion for justice and his ability to connect with his clients on a personal level set him apart. He wasn't just a lawyer; he was an advocate who genuinely cared about the outcomes of his cases. This approach earned him the loyalty of his clients and a growing list of referrals.

Armaan also started writing legal articles and blogs, sharing his insights and knowledge on various legal matters. His writings caught the attention of legal publications, further establishing him as an authority in his field. He was invited to speak at legal seminars and workshops, where his eloquence and depth of knowledge impressed both peers and aspiring lawyers.

With time, Armaan began to take on more significant cases, representing clients in high-profile legal battles. His courtroom presence was commanding, his arguments compelling, and his victories numerous. He built a network of contacts in the legal world, including judges, fellow lawyers, and influential figures in the business community.

Financial success followed naturally. Armaan's income as a freelance lawyer surpassed what he had earned at the family firm. But more importantly, he felt a deep sense of fulfillment. He was thriving on his own merits, without the weight of the Poddar name influencing his career.

Despite his success, Armaan remained humble and grounded. He never forgot the struggles of his early days or the people who had supported him along the way. He began mentoring young lawyers, offering them guidance and opportunities, just as he had once received.

Armaan's flourishing career was a testament to his resilience and determination. He had carved out a space for himself in the legal world, one that was entirely his own. And with each passing day, he grew more confident that leaving the Poddar family was the right decision, not just for his career, but for his own peace of mind.

When Armaan received the papers transferring authority from the Poddar firm, it hit him harder than he expected. The crisp, official documents were a stark reminder of the ties he was severing, not just professionally, but personally. The firm had been more than just a workplace; it was intertwined with his identity and his family's legacy. The thought of signing away his rights felt like closing a chapter of his life that he had never fully written.

But Armaan didn't allow himself to dwell on the hurt. He knew this was a necessary step in his journey toward independence and self-discovery. Without hesitation, he picked up the pen and signed the papers. The decision, though painful, was one he had made long before the documents arrived.

Madhav, sensing the finality of the situation, urged Armaan not to give up his rights. He couldn't understand why Armaan was so willing to let go of everything they had built together. But Armaan was firm in his resolve. He calmly explained that his decision wasn't about giving up, but about letting go.

He articulated what he had been grappling with for some time: staying connected to the Poddar firm—and to Kaveri Poddar—was suffocating him. The firm had become a symbol of everything he no longer wanted to be a part of. It was filled with expectations, obligations, and a history that weighed him down rather than lifted him up. The family, particularly Kaveri, represented a love that had grown toxic, tainted by manipulation, control, and unresolved conflicts.

Armaan acknowledged that he still loved his family. That would never change. But he had come to realize that this love was no longer enough to justify the sacrifices he was making—sacrifices of his mental health, his personal growth, and his sense of self. He had to choose between living in the shadow of the Poddar name or stepping out into the light on his own terms.

Signing those papers was his way of choosing himself. It was a declaration that he would no longer be defined by the Poddar legacy or Kaveri's expectations. He was carving out a new path, one that was free from the ties that had bound him for so long.

Though the decision wasn't easy, Armaan felt a profound sense of relief once it was made. He was no longer tethered to a past that didn't serve him. Instead, he was free to move forward, focusing on the future he was building as a freelance lawyer—a future that was entirely his own.

____________________

Kaveri hadn't expected Armaan to sign the transfer papers so quickly. She had braced herself for a confrontation, a battle of wills that would see him clinging to his rights at the Poddar firm. But instead, the papers had come back signed without a word of protest. It was like being doused in a bucket of cold water—shocking, disorienting, and unsettling. The ease with which he had severed ties left her feeling hollow, as if she had lost more than just a business partner; she had lost a connection, even if it was a strained one.

Sanjay, on the other hand, was pleased with the outcome. He had long believed that this was the best course for everyone involved, that Armaan's departure would finally allow them to move on. But Kaveri couldn't share his sense of relief. The family had fractured in ways that felt irreparable.

Manoj and Manisha had left the house, taking Aryan and Kiara with them. Their departure had left a palpable emptiness in the home, a void that Kaveri couldn't ignore. Vidya had retreated into herself, spending most of her time holed up in her room. She had become a ghost in her own home, appearing only to disappear for days at a time. Kaveri knew that Vidya was visiting Madhav and Armaan, seeking comfort in their presence.

Kaveri had tried to mask her unease with sharp words, taunting Vidya whenever she returned from visiting Madhav and Armaan. It was an attempt to provoke a reaction, to maintain some semblance of control over a situation that was rapidly spiraling out of her grasp. But Vidya no longer took the bait. She would listen quietly, her expression impassive, until one day she finally spoke up.

"I could leave, you know," Vidya had said calmly, her voice steady. "I could go stay with my husband and son, build a life away from all of this. But I'm still here, Maa sa. Not because I need your approval or your validation, but because I want to see if you'll ever feel remorse for what you've done. I'm here because, despite everything, you gave me a place in this family when Madhav Ji was distant. And for that, I can't just abandon you, not even now."

Vidya's words hung in the air, cutting through the tension like a knife. They left Kaveri stunned, forcing her to confront the reality she had been avoiding. Vidya's loyalty wasn't rooted in fear or obligation; it was a conscious choice, one made out of a complex mix of gratitude, duty, and hope. Vidya wasn't staying because she needed Kaveri, but because she wanted to witness something that Kaveri herself had been unwilling to acknowledge—remorse, change, a glimmer of the person she had once been before ambition and pride had taken over. Kaveri was left without a retort for the first time in a long while.

Krish and Charu were more distant than ever. Through the grapevine, Kaveri had heard that Krish had finally found his footing as a dancer, a passion he had kept hidden from the family for so long. The whispers of his growing success reached her ears, tales of performances that captivated audiences, of a talent that was flourishing beyond the confines of the life she had envisioned for him. Yet, despite his achievements, Krish hadn't come to her for validation. He hadn't shared his triumphs with her, hadn't sought the praise she would have readily given had his path aligned with her expectations. Instead, he moved forward with a quiet confidence, carving out a space for himself in a world that Kaveri barely understood.

This indifference stung more than Kaveri cared to admit. She had always believed that she knew what was best for her children, that her guidance was essential for their success. But now, as she watched them slip further away, she was forced to confront the painful reality that they were finding fulfillment in ways she hadn't anticipated—or approved of. Krish's distance was a silent rebuke, a reminder that her influence was waning, that the bonds she had relied on were fraying.

Krish and Charu's growing distance was a bitter pill, but Kajal's plight weighed heavily on her heart in ways she hadn't anticipated. Kajal,the daughter who had always been there, now looked distraught and fragile. Kaveri had assumed that Kajal's sadness stemmed from missing her husband, Sanjay, who was now more consumed with the Poddar firm than ever, especially after Manoj and Armaan's departures. But in truth, Kaveri had failed to see the depth of Kajal's despair.

Kajal's life, which had always seemed so picture-perfect, was crumbling. Her marriage had long been a source of silent suffering, a pain she had borne with resilience, finding solace in the warmth and support of her family. But now, that support system was fracturing, and the once reliable refuge of family was slipping away, leaving her adrift in her misery. Kaveri had been too caught up in her own struggles to notice the cracks in Kajal's façade, the way her daughter was slowly unraveling, losing the emotional and mental strength that had once been her hallmark.

Kajal's visits to Kaveri became less frequent, her presence in the house more like a fleeting shadow than the comforting figure she had once been. She no longer found the peace she had once sought in her family's embrace, the solace that had helped her endure the hardships of her marriage. Instead, she felt isolated, cut off from the very people she had always turned to for support. Kaveri had missed the signs, had overlooked the toll that the family's disintegration was taking on her daughter. Now, as Kajal's spirit dimmed, Kaveri was left to grapple with the painful realization that she had failed to protect her only daughter.

The house, once filled with the laughter and chaos of a large, loving family, was now quiet, the emptiness echoing through its halls. Kaveri was surrounded by the remnants of a life she had tried so hard to build, but which now seemed to be crumbling around her. The choices she had made, the decisions she had believed were for the best, had driven her children away, leaving her to face the consequences of her own ambition and pride. Kajal's suffering was a harsh reminder that in her pursuit of control and success, Kaveri had lost sight of what truly mattered—the well-being and happiness of her children. Now, all she could do was watch as her family slipped further away, knowing that she was powerless to bring them back.

____________

Armaan had started therapy shortly after the transfer of authority from the Poddar firm. It was a step he had long resisted, but he finally acknowledged that he needed help to navigate the complex emotions that had been building up inside him. The guilt of wronging Abhira weighed heavily on his heart, a constant reminder of the mistakes he wished he could undo. He knew that until he confronted this guilt, he would never truly be free.

Therapy became a safe space for Armaan to explore the depths of his pain, regrets, and unresolved feelings. His thoughts often drifted to Abhira during these sessions. He missed her more than he could put into words, and there were countless times when he wished he could see her again, just to tell her how deeply sorry he was. But every time the urge to reconnect grew strong, so did his fear. He couldn't bring himself to ask Madhav for help in reaching out to her.The thought of facing Abhira while he was still battling his inner demons felt overwhelming.

As the therapy sessions progressed, Armaan slowly began to find clarity. He realized that before he could face Abhira, he needed to face himself. There were wounds within him that needed healing, and guilt that needed addressing before he could make things right with her. The therapy helped him understand that while he longed to see Abhira, he couldn't do so until he had made peace with his past and found a way to forgive himself.

One detail gnawed at him during these sessions—the amount of money credited to his bank account every month. Armaan knew it was sent by Abhira, a gesture that both comforted and pained him. It was his way of feeling ensured that she is fine and flourishing, even from a distance, but it also served as a stark reminder of what he had lost. The monthly deposits were a lifeline that tied him to her, but they also underscored the unresolved tension between them, the unspoken words and unhealed wounds that kept them apart.

Armaan decided that he would only seek out Abhira once he had worked through his issues. He didn't want to burden her with his unresolved emotions or risk reopening old wounds before he was truly ready to make amends. Meeting her again would be meaningful only if he came to her as a better, more whole version of himself—someone who had faced his mistakes and learned from them.

So, he continued his therapy with renewed determination, focusing on sorting out his own demons before he could attempt to heal what was broken between him and Abhira. It was a slow, often painful process, but Armaan knew it was the only way forward. Only after he had done the inner work could he hope to approach Abhira with the sincerity and clarity that she deserved. The monthly credits from her, though a reminder of his failures, became a motivation to strive for the peace and redemption he so desperately sought.

very very well written chapter!!

Wonderful FF, caught up with last few updates. Eagerly looking forward to where this FF is going.

NYC update,waiting 4 nxt part

Hoping for an update on this FF too!

Part 10

*After a Year*

A year had passed since Abhira embarked on her journey in Bangalore. Having successfully transitioned from an intern to a junior corporate lawyer, she found herself navigating her role with increasing confidence and skill. The promotion marked a significant milestone in her career, reflecting both her dedication and the firm's recognition of her potential.

The law firm, impressed by her performance, had embraced her fully into its ranks. Abhira's days were filled with the rigorous demands of corporate law—drafting and reviewing complex contracts, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and ensuring compliance with a myriad of regulations. The work was intellectually stimulating and offered her a sense of accomplishment. Her analytical prowess and attention to detail had earned her the respect of her colleagues and superiors alike.

Abhira's transition into corporate law had been more than just a career shift; it had been a revelation. Unlike her previous experiences with familial cases, corporate law provided a clear demarcation between her personal and professional lives. This separation was crucial for her well-being. The corporate environment, with its focus on business strategies and legal frameworks, allowed her to use her mind without the constant tug-of-war between heart and logic. She no longer had to navigate the emotional complexities that came with personal disputes. Instead, her work involved structured problem-solving and strategic thinking, where personal feelings did not interfere.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Abhira was also balancing her final year of a master's program. The dual commitment of her career and academics was demanding, but she managed it with remarkable efficiency. Her experience at the firm provided practical insights that enriched her academic understanding, while her studies offered a theoretical foundation that complemented her work.

Abhira's adaptation to the corporate environment had proven to be a perfect fit. The structured nature of corporate law allowed her to maintain a clear boundary between her professional responsibilities and personal life. This distinction was liberating, as it freed her from the emotional entanglements she had previously faced and enabled her to focus solely on her professional growth. Her ability to approach her work with a rational and detached mindset had not only enhanced her performance but also contributed to her overall satisfaction and well-being.

As she approached the final stages of her master's program, Abhira felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Her career had evolved in ways she hadn't initially anticipated, but the journey had reaffirmed her decision to pursue corporate law. The challenges she faced were met with a newfound confidence and clarity, marking a significant departure from the emotional struggles she had once encountered. Her growth over the past year was evident, and she looked forward to continuing her professional journey with the same dedication and passion that had brought her this far.

In her personal life, Abhira had recently settled her debt to Madhav, a milestone that brought her a sense of relief. However, she continued to send installments to Armaan, hoping to repay him completely before the completion of her master's program. This commitment was more than financial; it was a gesture of respect and gratitude for his support during a tumultuous time.

Despite her ongoing payments, Abhira often wondered about Armaan's silence. His lack of contact stung her, a reminder of the unresolved feelings from their past. She acknowledged that her proposal for a deal marriage had set the stage for their complex relationship, and she had no right to question his disinterest. While the initial bitterness had lessened over time, she couldn't entirely shake the feeling of disappointment.

As the months passed, Abhira's perspective on the situation evolved. She came to understand that her involvement in Armaan's life and the subsequent changes might have been overwhelming for him. It was only natural for people to resist sudden shifts in their lives, and she began to see his silence as a reflection of his own process of adjustment rather than a personal slight against her.

The harsh feelings she once harbored towards Armaan and his family had softened. She realized that her imposition into their lives, though unintended, had likely caused discomfort and resistance. This newfound empathy helped her move past her lingering grievances. She accepted that her own role in the situation was part of a larger, more complex interplay of human emotions and circumstances.

Despite her growing empathy, Abhira's feelings for Armaan remained. She couldn't deny that her heart still harbored emotions for him, even as she tried to move on. She recognized that her feelings were a chapter of unrequited love, a poignant part of her life story. It was a bittersweet realization, acknowledging that some loves remain unresolved, lingering as a testament to what once was.

With her career advancing and her issues gradually resolving, Abhira felt a sense of balance returning to her life. The clear boundaries between her professional and personal spheres allowed her to focus on her growth without being weighed down by past conflicts. Her journey had been marked by significant change and self-discovery, and she continued to navigate it with a blend of resilience and understanding.

The humble hotelier, to whom she had leased the resort, had managed to transform it into a well-regarded destination in Mussorie. The success of the resort had been a pleasant surprise and a testament to the hotelier's skills. The rental income had provided Abhira with a financial boost, allowing her to focus more on her career and studies without the pressure of her earlier debts.

Abhira's long-term goal remained close to her heart. She hoped to reclaim the resort and run it on her own once the lease with the hotelier ended. The dream of managing the resort herself was a reflection of her mother's entrepreneurial spirit, a legacy she cherished and aspired to continue. The prospect of turning the resort into a thriving business under her own stewardship was both exciting and fulfilling, offering her a personal and professional challenge that complemented her current successes.

As Abhira looked forward to the future, she felt a sense of optimism and purpose. Her career, personal growth, and aspirations were coming together in a way that promised continued success and satisfaction. The past year had been one of significant transformation, and as she approached the next chapter, she was ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

______________________

Armaan's journey through his freelance legal career had brought him both professional success and personal growth. His blog had blossomed into a highly regarded resource, with a substantial following among legal professionals, students, and enthusiasts. The insightful and accessible way he addressed complex legal topics had earned him respect and admiration in the legal community. His guest lectures, much like those of his mentor Akshara, had become well-attended events, where he was celebrated for his ability to engage and inspire audiences with his depth of knowledge and passion for the law.

On a personal front, Armaan had made significant strides in his healing journey. His therapy sessions, once a weekly necessity, had become less frequent but more impactful. This change signified a substantial improvement in his emotional and psychological well-being. The focus of these sessions had shifted from basic recovery to deeper exploration of his experiences and their implications, allowing him to understand and manage his emotions more effectively.

Throughout this period of growth, Armaan found himself often reflecting on Abhira. Initially, he had chosen to avoid thinking about her, dedicating himself to his career and personal healing. However, as he became more at ease with his past, he couldn't help but think about her and wonder about her life since they had parted ways. His reflections were not driven by unresolved feelings but by a genuine curiosity and a sense of unfinished business.

Armaan had started to discuss Abhira with his father during their conversations. This shift occurred when he felt he was genuinely healing and ready to process his past experiences more openly. These discussions were not fueled by lingering resentment but by a need to understand and come to terms with the impact Abhira had on his life. His father, always supportive and perceptive, listened with empathy and offered valuable insights that helped Armaan gain perspective.

The more Armaan reflected, the more he felt a desire to reconnect with Abhira. He wasn't motivated by lingering romantic feelings but rather by a wish to see how she had grown and to express his respect for her journey. He hoped that a reunion, if it were to happen, would be an opportunity for mutual understanding and closure. He imagined meeting her with a sense of appreciation for the paths they had each taken and for the person she had become.

Armaan's desire to reconcile was rooted in a sincere wish to bridge the gap that had grown between them. He envisioned a meeting where they could share their experiences and acknowledge the growth they had both achieved. For him, this wasn't about revisiting the past but about embracing the possibility of a new chapter, grounded in mutual respect and a recognition of their individual journeys.

____________________________

Meanwhile Poddar Law Firm had taken a sharp downturn. Sanjay's tenure as a partner had been marked by a series of challenges that had left the once-prestigious firm in a precarious position.

The firm had been renowned for its strong leadership and strategic vision under the guidance of its former partners, particularly Manoj and Armaan. However, with their departure, the firm had entered a period of instability. Sanjay, who had taken over as a partner, struggled to fill the void left by these key figures. His leadership style, marked by a lack of clear vision and an inability to adapt to the changing legal landscape, exacerbated the firm's difficulties.

Sanjay's ethical lapses were a significant factor in the firm's downfall. Known for his unscrupulous behavior, he often made decisions driven by personal gain rather than professional integrity. This departure from ethical standards eroded client trust and undermined the firm's reputation. The firm, once a symbol of legal excellence and moral rectitude, was now associated with questionable practices and deteriorating professionalism.

The absence of Armaan, who had previously acted as a counterbalance to Sanjay's unethical tendencies, was particularly notable. Armaan had been instrumental in maintaining the firm's ethical standards and ensuring that its operations were conducted with integrity. His presence had kept Sanjay's more questionable inclinations in check and provided a stabilizing influence on the firm's culture and practices.

With Armaan gone, Sanjay's unchecked behavior became more pronounced. His decisions, often motivated by self-interest, led to a series of problematic moves that further tarnished the firm's reputation. Clients who had once trusted Poddar Law Firm with their most critical legal matters began to distance themselves, seeking out competitors who could offer a more reliable and ethical approach.

The impact of Sanjay's leadership was evident in several areas. First and foremost, the firm's reputation had suffered a severe blow. Where Poddar Law Firm had once been known for its cutting-edge legal practices and successful case outcomes, it now struggled to maintain its standing. Client confidence waned as the firm failed to deliver the same level of excellence and innovation that had previously set it apart.

Financial performance was another area of concern. The firm experienced a decline in revenue and profitability, a direct result of losing high-profile clients and failing to attract new ones. Sanjay's inability to effectively manage the firm's operations and secure new business opportunities contributed to this financial decline. The once-bustling offices were now quieter, and the firm's growth prospects looked bleak.

Moreover, internal morale took a hit. Employees who had once been proud to work for a leading firm found themselves disillusioned by the direction Sanjay was taking. The lack of a cohesive strategy and clear leadership created a sense of uncertainty and frustration among the staff. Talented lawyers who had once been drawn to Poddar Law Firm began seeking opportunities elsewhere, further depleting the firm's talent pool.

Efforts to revitalize the firm had been sporadic and largely ineffective. Sanjay implemented a series of reforms and new initiatives, but these measures failed to address the root causes of the firm's decline. The firm's internal structure, once a model of efficiency and innovation, now appeared outdated and fragmented. The lack of vision and coherent strategy meant that even well-intentioned changes did not translate into meaningful improvements.

As the downward spiral of Poddar Law Firm continued, the situation grew increasingly dire with the exposure of unethical practices and financial misconduct under Sanjay's leadership. The firm's tarnished reputation took a further hit when several scandals and scams came to light, casting a long shadow over its already fragile standing.

Internal investigations and whistleblowers revealed that Sanjay had engaged in a series of fraudulent activities. These included embezzling client funds, manipulating financial records to cover up losses, and engaging in questionable dealings with dubious clients. His actions were not only unethical but also illegal, leading to significant legal and financial repercussions for the firm. The once-esteemed Poddar Law Firm was now embroiled in a series of high-profile legal battles, facing allegations of financial misconduct and breach of fiduciary duty.

The revelation of these scams was devastating for the firm's clients, many of whom had trusted Poddar Law Firm with their most sensitive and high-stakes legal matters. The loss of client trust was swift and severe, with several prominent clients severing ties and seeking alternative legal representation. The financial fallout from these scandals was immediate, leading to a further decline in revenue and exacerbating the firm's already precarious financial situation.

Kaveri Poddar was left grappling with the consequences of her choices. Her decision to trust Sanjay with a leadership role and to oust Armaan, who had previously been a cornerstone of the firm's success, was now under intense scrutiny. Kaveri's regret was palpable as she watched the firm she had helped build crumble under the weight of unethical practices and mismanagement.

In the initial stages of the crisis, Kaveri often thought of reaching out to Armaan and Manoj to invite them back, hoping their return could help salvage the firm. However, her pride and ego prevented her from taking these steps. As the scams and scandals continued to unfold, the idea of reinviting Armaan and Manoj seemed increasingly futile. The public's knowledge of their departure only added to the firm's disrepute, making it clear that the damage inflicted by Sanjay's leadership was beyond repair.

Kaveri's realization that her decisions had a pivotal role in the firm's downfall weighed heavily on her. The firm's name, once synonymous with legal excellence and integrity, was now tainted beyond redemption. The path to restoring its former glory seemed distant and unattainable, leaving Kaveri to confront the harsh reality of her choices and the firm's steep decline.

Manoj settled down in Delhi with his family, finding a fresh start after leaving Poddar Law Firm. Initially, he joined a prestigious legal firm where he began as a senior legal consultant, leveraging his extensive experience and expertise. His reputation and track record quickly garnered attention, and he was soon offered a partnership in the firm.

This new role marked a significant turning point in Manoj's career. Unlike his previous experiences, where favoritism and internal conflicts had overshadowed his contributions, this position allowed him to operate free from such constraints. The absence of these issues helped him regain his confidence and assert his professional capabilities more effectively.

In his new role, Manoj embraced a leadership position with renewed vigor. His career trajectory flourished without the encumbrances that had previously plagued him, enabling him to build a reputation based on merit and accomplishment rather than navigating the complexities of office politics. His work was now recognized for its quality and integrity, reflecting the true extent of his legal acumen and professional dedication.

It wasn't that Manoj and Armaan were unaware of the decline at Poddar Law Firm. Both had observed the firm's troubles from afar, though their circumstances limited their involvement in direct interventions.

Manoj, now firmly established in Delhi with his new firm, was bound by legal and contractual obligations that restricted his ability to directly address the situation at Poddar. As a partner in his new firm, he was committed to its success and could not easily intervene in the matters of his former firm.

Armaan, on the other hand, was more directly affected by the unfolding situation. He had hoped for some communication from his grandmother, Kaveri Poddar, which would provide him with an opportunity to offer his assistance. Despite the personal and professional rift, Armaan remained willing to help. He even attempted to channel support through Manoj, hoping that together they might aid in stabilizing the firm. However, Kaveri's reluctance to acknowledge Armaan's offer of help was a significant barrier. Her lingering doubts about Manoj's capabilities meant that any potential aid was rejected.

Armaan's struggle with the situation at Poddar Law Firm was compounded by his personal turmoil and professional frustrations. Although he had tried to assist from the sidelines, his offers of help were consistently rebuffed by Kaveri, who remained skeptical of both his and Manoj's intentions and capabilities. The lack of direct communication from Kaveri, especially during times of crisis, only deepened Armaan's sense of frustration and helplessness.

As Armaan grappled with his feelings of rejection and his desire to help, he sought support from a therapist. The therapist faced a challenging task in convincing Armaan that prioritizing his self-respect and personal well-being was not selfish. The constant rebuffing of his efforts, combined with being kept at a distance, had taken a toll on Armaan's emotional state.

The therapist's counsel focused on helping Armaan understand that he had the right to protect his own dignity and not feel obligated to sacrifice his self-worth for an organization that had shown no appreciation for his attempts to contribute. The idea that he was entitled to prioritize his own mental and emotional health over an unresponsive and deteriorating situation was a difficult but necessary perspective for Armaan to embrace.

Gradually, Armaan began to accept this advice. The realization that his self-respect and personal boundaries were important became clearer. Despite his initial reluctance to give up on the firm he had once been deeply invested in, Armaan ultimately recognized that continuing to pursue an avenue that offered no genuine engagement or acknowledgment was detrimental to his well-being.

In time, Armaan made the decision to step away from his efforts to aid Poddar Law Firm. While it was a painful choice, he understood that it was necessary for his own peace of mind and self-respect. By choosing to focus on his own life and career, Armaan allowed himself the space to move forward and reclaim his sense of purpose and integrity, free from the constraints of an unresponsive and troubled situation.

Longest Chapter to date. I tried winding up this fanfiction here but it's getting incredibly long. So I had to stop at some point. I will bring a closure to this fic with the next one or two chapters. Apologies for boring you guys with such stretches in this fic.

Let me know your thoughts.

This was the best chapter!!! thank you so much for this. I look forward to Abhimaan meeting each other and their reconciliation. Part of me wants them back together too...but I am influenced by the show.

I am glad that Armaan is choosing himself and his self respect

I can imagine Abhira in corporate law totally killing it!!! UFFF.How I wish she would be able to pick something like that in the show. but show mein lawyer sab kuch karta hai. right from criminal to civil. i doubt they even realize that law has subspecialties too.

Lovely lovely update. Very nicely done. Not long at all beacuse you touched upon on all major characters of the story, Abhira, Sanjay, Dadisa, Manoj and of course Armaan. I had to read it twice back to back just to make sure I didn't miss anything.

I hope once you finish this FF you will start another FF........it's always a pleasure to read FF's from talented and captivating writers.

Are y active on Wattpad maybe, ❤️

Love how they fall 😅& the therapy.

Do tag me if possible 🙏🏽

Originally posted by: Milalal27

Are y active on Wattpad maybe, ❤️

Love how they fall 😅& the therapy.

Do tag me if possible 🙏🏽

Yes, These fics are available in Wattpad as well, with the same names obviously (& same username) !

And unfortunately, as a beginner, I can't tag users here!