Chapter - 10
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Shivanya ~
I woke up with a pounding headache, the events of the previous night swirling in my mind like a fog. My eyes fluttered open, taking in the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. For a moment, I lay still, trying to piece together the fragments of my memory.
There had been a bar, and too much whiskey.
Mr. Raichand had found me at the bar and I vaguely recalled him helping me home. I groaned inwardly, my stomach twisting with embarrassment.
"Great, Shivanya. Just great," I muttered to myself, sitting up slowly. The room spun slightly, a reminder of the whiskey I had foolishly consumed. I reached for the glass of water on the bedside table.
As I sipped the cool water, I tried to focus on what needed to be done today. There was the hearing regarding the trademark infringement case and then Radhika and I needed to get to the hotel and check in. Today was her sangeet. I forced myself to get out of bed, dragging my feet towards the washroom. A hot shower was what I needed to clear my head and shake off the lingering unease.
"Why Shivanya, why? Out of all places, why did you have to go where your boss was?" I groaned, annoyed as I turned on the shower and stood under, getting annoyed at myself by the minute for my idiocy last night. My head was beating like it had a heart of its own, the after-effects of consuming too much whiskey, of course.
I finished my shower, wrapping myself in a towel and staring at my reflection. "Get a grip, Shivanya. You have tonnes of work and no time to do it." I squared my shoulders, trying to muster some semblance of confidence.
Dressing quickly, I chose an outfit that screamed professionalism—a crisp white blouse and a black pencil skirt. I pulled my hair into a sleek ponytail.
"Di? Where are you going?" Radhika asked as I stepped out of the living room.
"Good morning Radhika. I have a very important hearing today but I will be done by the afternoon. I have texted Taran, he will pick you and your stuff and take you to the hotel, okay? I'll be there before lunch, I promise." I said while she was making some coffee and toast for the two of us.
"But Di, today is my sangeet and I need you with me! How am I going to manage without you?" She looked slightly guilty at her words.
"My doll, I will be back before you know it. Promise." I tried to reassure her with a confident smile, but my insides were still churning with anxiety. I grabbed a piece of toast and took a quick bite before heading out.
As I stepped outside, I saw to a sleek black car parked just outside my block. The driver, a man in his fifties with a friendly look stood by the car.
"Who on Earth owns such an expensive car in this place?" I muttered as I looked around my apartments before walking ahead to get a cab. My car must be in the pub, making me groan inwardly again. As I was about to get away, the driver looked at me.
" Miss Shivanya Chopra?" He asked, stepped forward, a courteous smile on his face, and opened the door for me with a graceful, practiced motion and I nodded hesitantly.
How did he know me!?
"Good morning, Miss Chopra. Mr. Raichand sent me to take you to the court," he said, his tone respectful and reassuring.
I blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. A surge of defiance surged within me. I didn't need him to look after me like this. I could handle things on my own. I straightened my posture, gathering the resolve to refuse the offer.
"Thank you, but I'll be fine taking a cab," I replied, my voice firmer than I felt. I took a step back, intending to head towards the main road to hail a taxi.
The driver's smile didn't waver. "Mr. Raichand insisted, Miss Chopra. He wanted to ensure you arrived safely and comfortably, considering that you don't have your car with you and finding cabs at this hour is difficult in the city."
My defiance wavered at his words. The memory of Vihaan finding me at the bar and helping me home flashed through my mind, bringing with it a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. I hesitated, my eyes shifting from the car to the driver and back again.
With a sigh, I relented. "Alright," I said softly, stepping towards the car. "Thank you."
I slipped into the back seat, feeling the soft, luxurious leather beneath me. The interior of the car was immaculate, with a subtle scent of fresh leather mixed with a hint of cologne that seemed distinctly familiar.
As the car started moving smoothly, I glanced around, taking in the quiet elegance of the space. There was a small, discreet console between the seats with a few amenities—a bottle of mineral water, a box of tissues, and a neatly folded newspaper. It was clear that Mr. Raichand had thought of everything to ensure my comfort during the ride.
My gaze was drawn to a handwritten note placed on the seat beside me. Curiosity piqued, I picked it up and unfolded it carefully, the crisp paper rustling slightly in the quiet car.
Miss Chopra,
Your car is still in the parking lot of my pub. I'll ensure it gets to you later today. Make the firm proud at Court.
- Vihaan Raichand.
My heart skipped a beat at the sight of his neat, bold handwriting. The tone of the note mirrored himself—confident, commanding, and always in control. I couldn't help but feel a mix of gratitude and apprehension.
The ride was a blur, my mind racing with thoughts of the hearing and the events of the previous evening. But by the time we arrived, I had managed to pull myself together, ready to face the day.
The driver pulled up smoothly to the entrance of the courthouse, exiting the car with practiced efficiency to open the door for me once again. "Have a good day, Miss Chopra," he said with a nod, his smile reassuring.
"Thank you," I replied, stepping out and squaring my shoulders. With a deep breath, I walked towards the courthouse. My headache had faded into a dull throb, replaced by the adrenaline coursing through my veins.
Taking my seat, I quickly reviewed my notes.
The judge, a stern-looking woman in her fifties, entered the room, and everyone stood up in respect. As she took her seat, she motioned for us to begin. I stood up with purpose, walking confidently to the center of the room.
"My Lady, it is indisputable that the defendant has unlawfully replicated our client's patented software," I began, my voice clear and assertive. "This software represents years of innovation and substantial investment of approximately Rs. 100 crore rupees by my client. The defendant's actions not only threaten to undermine our client's market position but also violate their intellectual property rights."
I proceeded to outline the technical reports and digital forensics analysis along with the market research reports, highlighting how the defendant had accessed and replicated my client's proprietary algorithms and functionality.
"We seek an injunction to prevent the launch of this copied software," I concluded firmly, meeting the judge's gaze.
When I finished, she turned to Mr. Kapoor for his rebuttal. He stood up, attempting to counter my arguments, but I could sense his defense was weak and defensive.
After hearing both sides, the judge nodded thoughtfully. "I have heard enough. After considering the arguments and evidence presented, I find merit in the plaintiff's claims," she declared decisively. "The injunction, protecting the intellectual property worth ₹100 crores is granted to prevent the defendant from launching the copied software. This court session is adjourned."
A wave of relief and triumph washed over me as the judge's gavel came down with finality. Mr. Kapoor's expression turned crestfallen, while our client's representatives exchanged smiles and nods of gratitude.
Things were turning out to be good. This was the first case I'd won that was valued over a 100 crores!!
My only prime fear now, facing Mr. Raichand after last night. I had absolutely no recollection whatsoever as to what had happened but I knew that he was the one who found me drunk and took me home, that was the only memory I had.
"Please god, please tell me that I haven't said and done anything embarrassing. Oh, and please make sure that him and I don't meet today, please?"I looked up while exiting the Court room, praying.
Seemed like god wasn't in the mood to listen to me because Vihaan Raichand was standing right by his car outside the Court, looking extremely handsome in his usual boring suits.
He was the kind of man who commanded attention without trying. Tall and broad-shouldered, his perfectly tailored suit hugged his athletic frame in all the right places. His jet-black hair added to his air of authority. But it was his face that made my heart skip a beat. His strong jawline was accentuated by a faint stubble that gave him a rugged, yet sophisticated look. Deep-set, piercing eyes that seemed to see right through me, and lips that hinted at both firmness and tenderness. His whole presence radiated a kind of effortless charm that made it impossible to look away.
"What is he doing here? And what is wrong with you Shivanya? Why are you checking your boss out? The boss, in whose presence you've absolutely made of fool of yourself last night? Oh my God is he here to fire me? Here? In front of everyone?" I started my rambling as I stood rooted to my spot, spiraling in my own thoughts.
Vihaan ~
The meeting with Dev Sinha, the union law minister, was turning out to be more elaborate than usual. As a key member of the law policy-making panel to the central government, I was well-versed in conducting high-stakes discussions. Yet today, my mind kept drifting back to Shivanya.
"Vihaan, your insights on the proposed amendment are crucial. What are your thoughts on this?" Sinha's voice cut through my thoughts, snapping me back to the present.
I took a moment, letting the weight of the room settle. All eyes were on me, awaiting my input. I cleared my throat and leaned forward, scanning the documents laid out before us. "Mr. Sinha, while the amendment aims to streamline judicial processes, it is essential that it doesn't compromise the rights of the individuals it's designed to protect. We must strike a careful balance between efficiency and justice."
A hush fell over the room. The other members nodded in agreement, their deference unmistakable. Sinha himself looked thoughtful, clearly valuing my input. "I agree. Your perspective is invaluable, Vihaan. As we consider the ramifications of—"
Before he could finish, my phone buzzed on the table. I glanced at it, noting a message from my PA.
Miss Chopra has won the case.
A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. Without hesitation, I stood up, buttoning my coat. "Mr. Sinha, gentlemen, I must attend to an urgent matter. My apologies."
Sinha's eyebrows rose in surprise, but he quickly recovered, nodding in understanding. "Of course, Vihaan. We can continue next week."
I gave a curt nod and strode out, driving to the court which was less than a kilometre away and reaching there, I waited for her to come out.
Five minutes of wait and there she was, stepping out with an aura of triumph. Her eyes met mine, and for a split second, I saw a flicker of shock before she composed herself, making her way towards me.
"Mr. Raichand, are you going to fire me? I mean, I totally deserve to be fired after last night but..." She stood in front of me, looking more embarrassed than happy as she began to ramble.
"Congratulations, Miss Chopra." I cut her off, my voice firm and commanding as I extended my arm toward her for a handshake. Her eyes widened, her hand hesitating before it met mine. The touch of her skin against mine sent a jolt through me.
"Thank you, sir. So I am not being fired?" she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
I couldn't help but laugh. Who, in their right mind, would fire one of their best employees and the woman they were in love with? The very idea was absurd.
"No Shivanya, you are not being fired." I told her.
"Thank god! Looking for a job is tedious!" She sighed a breath of relief, almost comically.
"You have no idea what happened last night, do you?" I asked, my voice low and controlled. There was no way she would be so relaxed around me if she remembered.
"All I remember is that you found me and took me home, for which, by the way I am extremely thankful sir and really apologetic. I didn't mean to burden you with my issues yesterday at the engagement or the second time." She said, her voice holding an element of remorse, something that refused to settle well with me.
I studied her carefully, her words sinking in. There was sincerity in her eyes, an earnestness that softened my initial frustration. "Shivanya," I began, my voice measured, "you did not burden me."
She nodded, a hint of relief crossing her features. "I appreciate your understanding, sir. I promise it won't happen again."
Her words echoed in my mind. The way she stood before me now, contrite and composed, contrasted sharply with the vulnerable woman I had seen at the bar. It was a reminder of how much she guarded herself from everyone around her.
Shivanya ~
I had a nagging feeling that Vihaan wasn't telling me everything about last night as he drove me to the hotel. But with Taran and Radhika waving eagerly from the lobby as soon as we pulled up, I didn't have time to dwell on it.
"Will I be seeing you in the evening sir?" I asked him and he nodded at me as I stepped out of the car.
"Shivanya, about last night—"
Before he could finish, I shook my head in understanding. "You don't have to explain, sir. I know you were just being kind."
"Kind?" His voice carried a deep, almost mocking resonance with bitterness that seemed directed more at himself than at me. I nervously tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear.
"Miss Chopra, this is one of those rare occasions where I will have to question your judgement. Today, it is far away from the truth." He said but before he could give me a chance to ask what he means, he drove away as I processed his words.
"What?"
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" Di, how do I look?" Radhika asked as she was completely ready and honestly, I could not take my eyes off her. That's how beautiful she looked in her baby pink lehenga.
Radhika's Look
" Like my princess. Turn a bit, let me put this nazar ka teeka behind your ear." I said, taking some kohl and putting it to ward off any evil eye and for the first time, I did not feel any bitterness towards Taran.
How could anyone not love my sister?
" I love you Di!" She threw her arms around me and I embraced her.
" I love you too." I kissed the top of her forehead and then she twirled around in happiness.
Her few friends then took her to where the function was going to be held. Taran and her were going to dance too and were maybe going to practice one last time.
I also quickly changed into my saree and did some make-up on my own. There was no way that I could afford the make-up artist services for two and besides, it was Radhika who was getting married!
I was almost ready when there was a knock on the door.
" Coming." I called out and opened the door to find out Taran's mom standing there with Sangeeta aunty.
"Shivanya? I thought this was Radhika's suite." Harsha aunty said and I shook my head in a no.
"Her room is right next to this one." I told her, pointing at the door adjacent to mine. It was a bridal suite!
"I'll just go and check on her." She said and I nodded as she walked off.
"You look beautiful, Shivanya." Sangeeta aunty, who was still standing with me, said.
" Thank you so much aunty, please come in!" I asked her, stepping aside.
As I fumbled, adjusting my saree, Sangeeta aunty stepped closer. "Let me help you with that, beta," she said softly and skillfully adjusted the pleats with a practiced ease.
"Thank you, Sangeeta aunty," I said gratefully, feeling a sense of calm settle over me. "It means a lot to have you here today."
We should get going now beta. The guests have started to arrive." Taran's mom said coming back and we agreed and left for the Sangeet hall.
Radhika and Taran were standing there, talking and it looked like Radhika's friends were pulling his leg.
" Okay enough. You all have harassed me enough. My best friend is here to save me now. Shivanya get here!" I bossed me around and I couldn't help but chuckle at his helpless expression and I went to him.
" Oh please Taran. She is my sister. She will take my side." Rads pulled me towards her by my hand.
" Yeah as if you don't have your minion army with you. No, Shivanya is mine." He pulled me next to him and his words clenched my heart even more as I took a deep breath to calm myself down.
I couldn't afford a panic attack here.
" Okay both of you. Enough. Let's go. The function is about to begin." I bossed around the two of them and immediately, they had puppy looks to give me.
" You both are crazy." I announced.
" Yes. Two crazy people crazy for each other." Taran said, looking at Radhika and she grinned, holding his hand.
" Let's go." She said and he gave her a nod as I took a step away from the middle.
They started walking ahead and I was just about to take one step ahead when I found myself losing balance, stumbling backwards when I found my back hitting a wall.
" Thank god." I murmured, balancing myself straight with the heels and ironing the creases out of my saree.
"You can thank me instead, Miss Chopra," a familiar voice spoke from behind me. It was my boss's voice for the second time today. I closed my eyes briefly, feeling embarrassed at how many times I'd managed to make a fool of myself in front of him.
I turned around slowly, my heart pounding in my chest as I faced him once again. His presence was commanding, his gaze penetrating. There was an intensity about him that both unsettled and intrigued me.
"Mr. Raichand," I began, trying to steady my voice despite the nerves that fluttered in my stomach. "Thank...." I started but he cut me off this time.
"Is it just me, or do you go about thanking everyone as much as you thank me?" Vihaan's voice cut through the hum of the celebration, a playful glint dancing in his eyes.
"Just you, I'm afraid. I haven't needed anyone to help me out in a very long time Sir but just somehow I am either in trouble and need saving or just plainly embarrassing myself when you are around." I think I lost a filter and felt a blush creep up my cheeks.
His lips curved into a smirk, his gaze lingering on mine with a knowing look.
"Well, I must admit, Miss Chopra, you do keep things interesting," he countered smoothly in a low tone and his expression softened slightly more.
I couldn't help but blush again, feeling self-conscious under his gaze.
His eyes lingered on me, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Orange suits you," he remarked casually.
I blinked, caught off guard and he laughed softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
"Learn to take a compliment, Miss Chopra," he continued, his voice holding a hint of playfulness that sent a shiver down my spine. "Because I plan on giving you more than just them."
And then, he walked away, leaving me confused for the second time today.
Shivanya's Look ~
Hey guys! This is the next chapter. Hope you all like it!
Thank you for reading the book.❤️
I'll publish the next chapter by Tuesday if I get about 1200 votes on this one along with 350+ comments.
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