Chapter - 12
Sorry guys, things were a bit hectic around and I was in no position to write but here is the chapter now.
Hope you all shower it with some love.
No Targets because I was super super late.
Thank youu!
Shivanya ~
It had been two days since Radhika got married, two days since I had stepped into this empty house after the wedding, all alone.
Vihaan did drop me but it was so late that I didn't invite him and he didn't press either, for which I was eternally thankful.
A cold, hollow breath seemed to seep through the walls, mirroring the emptiness that was clawing at my heart as I had walked in. Every corner of the house had her written all over because she was the one who had decorated this home and now, everything reminded me of her. The house felt too big, too empty without her.
Not that she let me miss her too much, every two hours and there was my phone ringing with her video call. She was settling in well and I had also talked to Taran once and he assured me that Radhika was doing fine and all of them were in love with her, putting my nerves to rest.
Today, I was rejoining office after this long break and looking forward to it, honestly. Yeah, yeah call me boring but work is what keeps me sane.
The office was bustling as usual, a stark contrast to my home. As I walked through the familiar corridors, I felt a sense of normalcy returning.
I got to my desk, fired my laptop up and the first email I had was about a meeting this afternoon with Mr. Raichand and a FMGC Company seeking some contract review and I was CC'd which meant that this was another project I was supposed to work on.
The rest of the morning passed by with me reviewing the open cases which were under me and delegating some pro-bono cases to the juniors.
"Shivanya, hurry up! The meeting is going to start soon." I spoke to myself, leaning my head back a bit on my chair for a minute.
When I opened my eyes, Vihaan was standing right behind me. I jerked upright, instantly self-conscious under his intense gaze. His eyes, dark and magnetic, seemed to drink me in, and a faint smirk played on his lips, as if he enjoyed the effect he had on me.
"Mr. Raichand," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper, as my heart pounded in my chest. "I didn't hear you come in."
"Clearly," he replied, his voice a deep, velvet murmur that sent shivers down my spine. His smirk widened slightly, his eyes never leaving mine. There was a predatory grace about him, a confidence that was both alluring and intimidating.
He took a step closer, and the scent of his cologne—something woodsy and rich—enveloped me, making my pulse quicken even more. I tried to look away, to break free from the magnetic pull of his gaze, but it was impossible. He was like a force of nature, drawing me in with an irresistible allure.
He took a step closer, the scent of his cologne—something woodsy and rich—enveloping me, making my pulse quicken even more. His presence was overwhelming, pulling me in.
"It's good to see you back, Shivanya," he said, his tone softening just a fraction, though the intensity in his eyes remained. "Ready for the meeting?"
"Yes, sir," I managed to reply, though my voice felt shaky. His presence had a way of unsettling me, and he knew it. The corner of his mouth twitched, as if he could read my thoughts and found them amusing.
"Good. But there is something else I need to tell you." he said, his gaze lingering on me a moment longer before he extended his arm towards me which had something sort of a wedding invitation and I looked at it and then at him, confused.
"We have been invited to a wedding this weekend." He told me.
"A wedding?" I asked, confused.
"Yes," he replied, leaning against the edge of my desk with a casual elegance that seemed effortless. "One of our previous clients, Mr. Deshmukh's son, is getting married. You handled his case, and he specifically requested your presence."
"Oh," I said, still processing the information. "That's unexpected."
Vihaan's eyes held mine, and for a moment, it felt like he was looking into my very soul. "They appreciated your work and your dedication. They want you there."
I nodded slowly, trying to absorb the sudden shift in plans. "Okay, I suppose I can make it. When is it?"
But before he could reply to my question, his PA was here, letting us know that FMCG representatives were waiting for him in the Conference Hall. All he did was give me a brief nod before leaving with her.
"Shivji, why are you doing this to me? I want to stay away from my boss as much as I can then why are you so hell bent on entangling my time with his?" I sat back on my chair, putting my head down for a brief second before gathering the files and my laptop, making my way to the Conference Hall.
I shook my head and focused on the task ahead. As I walked to the conference hall, I mentally reviewed the contract and key points to cover. The meeting was crucial, and I needed to be on top of my game.
The room was already set up, the representatives from the FMGC company seated and flipping through their notes. I took a deep breath, preparing myself for the meeting ahead.
When Vihaan finally entered, his presence seemed to transform the room. The way he carried himself with effortless authority and grace commanded attention, and even though I was used to his demeanor, today it felt like a potent reminder of how much he could unsettle me. He gave me a brief, reassuring nod before turning his focus to the representatives.
"Apologies for the delay," He said smoothly, his voice as polished as always.
"Shivanya and I are here to finalize the contract terms. Let's get started."
They nodded and I took a mental deep breath, readying myself for the discussion ahead.
One of the representatives, a middle-aged man opened the floor. "Our primary concern is the compliance clause. We want to ensure that the contract covers all regulatory requirements, especially in light of recent changes in the law."
I glanced at Vihaan, who gave me a subtle nod. It was my cue to take the lead. "We've reviewed the recent legislative changes extensively," I began, addressing the representative directly. "The compliance clause in the contract has been updated to reflect these changes. Specifically, we've included provisions to cover the new data protection regulations and amendments to environmental standards."
He raised an eyebrow, clearly interested. "Can you elaborate on how these provisions will impact our operations?"
"Of course" I replied. "The updated provisions ensure that your company will remain compliant with data protection laws by implementing stringent measures for data handling and storage. Additionally, the environmental standards amendments will require certain operational adjustments to reduce your carbon footprint. We've also included a grace period to facilitate a smooth transition without disrupting your current operations."
Vihaan's gaze shifted to me, and I noticed a hint of admiration in his eyes. He didn't interrupt but listened intently, which only fueled my confidence.
This time, a younger woman chimed in. "What about the confidentiality clause? We need to ensure that sensitive information is protected, especially with our new product line."
I turned to her, meeting her gaze with a reassuring smile. "We've strengthened the confidentiality clause to include additional safeguards for your sensitive information. This includes stricter access controls, regular audits, and clear protocols for handling any breaches. We've also outlined specific measures for protecting intellectual property related to your new product line."
She nodded. "That sounds comprehensive. And what about the timeline for amendments? We need flexibility to adapt to future regulatory changes."
"We've built in a review period every six months to reassess and update the contract terms as needed. This ensures that any regulatory changes are addressed promptly without requiring extensive renegotiations." I replied.
Then, Mr. Raichand leaned in slightly, his eyes locked on me with an intensity that made my pulse quicken. "I think that covers the primary concerns. Do you have anything else you would like to address?" he asked, turning to the representatives.
They shook their heads, satisfied. "No, that covers everything. We appreciate the thoroughness."
Vihaan nodded. "Thank you for your cooperation. My team will ensure that all the updated clauses are reflected in the final contract draft."
As they began gathering their materials and preparing to leave, Vihaan turned to me with a look that was both appreciative and contemplative. "Shivanya, stay for a moment. I want to go over a few additional points with you," he said, his tone firm yet laced with a subtle, undeniable warmth.
I nodded, trying to keep my composure as the group filed out of the conference room. Once the door closed behind them, Vihaan leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving mine.
We discussed some additional points while I continued to take a note of them and he continued to address my occasional questions.
Once done with this, I asked him about the date and time of the wedding which I was supposed to attend with him.
"This Saturday," he said smoothly. "I will pick you up at seven."
"Mr. Raichand, I really don't think it's necessary for you to—"
"Shivanya," he interrupted, his tone firm yet gentle. "You are going with me, I will not have it any other way."
My heart pounded in my chest. He was being incredibly stubborn about this!
"Sir I'm perfectly capable of handling this myself. You've already done more than enough, and this is completely unnecessary and unprofessional. I won't allow it," I declared, drawing a line in the sand. The boundaries between professional and personal were blurring for the past many days, and I had to re-establish them.
"Would you like to talk about what really is this resistance about Miss Chopra or will you have me find it for myself?" He asked, the corner of his lip lifting slightly.
Mr. Raichand, you are my boss, not my therapist. I don't find it professional." I told this man sitting opposite to me in his black suit and thumb pressing his lip as he continued to look at me, as if he could read me.
"Shivanya, things have never been professional between you and me since you walked in for that interview. Since then, I've thought about you in seven hundred ways, none of which closely resonate with me being your boss or you being my employee." His words were blunt, but they held a sincerity that left me stunned.
My breath hitched, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. I clasped my hands tightly together to stop them from trembling. "I'm sorry, what?" I managed to stammer, trying to process his words, which seemed to pierce through the very fabric of my composure.
"You heard me right the first time." He said, his voice unwavering, not bothering to repeat himself. He remained seated, leaning back in his chair with a relaxed, almost regal posture. It was as if he owned the very space between us. I could feel the weight of his gaze on me as I threw myself up from my seat, the sudden movement a reflex against the intensity of his stare, my heart racing as I struggled to maintain my composure.
I was not uneasy under his gaze, but my fingers instinctively brushed against my dress, smoothing out nonexistent wrinkles as if trying to hide something only I could see. But his look was different. It didn't unsettle me in the usual way; it was as if he saw beyond my surface—beyond my appearance and my work. His eyes seemed to pierce through to the very essence of who I was, making me feel both exposed and understood.
"You don't seem to understand, sir. When I say I don't want your help with anything outside of work, I mean it. If I ever find myself in a tough spot with a case, I know where to find you." I said, my voice trembling slightly despite my effort to stay firm. I took a step back, gathering my laptop and bag, ready to leave. But just as I was about to walk out, his voice reached out and stopped me once more.
"I have been waiting for you longer than you realise, Miss Chopra. You'll find out soon enough." His words dripped with an intensity that felt almost like a promise, sending a shiver down my spine.
"Have a good day, sir." I managed to say, before I hurried out of the conference room, my steps quick and unsteady, a sense of urgency driving me to escape the weight of his gaze. The door swung shut behind me, but the echo of his words lingered in my mind.
The hallway felt almost too bright and too loud. The world around me seemed to blur, and I found myself questioning what just happened.
"What just happened?"
I stopped by the small kitchenette to compose myself. My hands shook slightly as I poured a cup of water, the cool liquid barely helping to calm the flutter of nerves in my stomach. I leaned against the counter, staring at the reflection in the stainless steel refrigerator door, trying to make sense of the past ten minutes.
"Get a grip, Shivanya," I muttered to myself, splashing some water on my face. The coldness was a sharp contrast to the warmth I had felt in Mr. Raichand's presence minutes earlier.
And for the remaining of the week, I kept my head down and tried to avoid my boss as much as I could.
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Saturday came a lot sooner than I had expected and than I wanted.
"That man is trouble. He is a big, big trouble but why me?" I was pacing in my living room with my saree laying on the couch, thinking of a realistic way to get out of being with that insolent man for the rest of the evening.
"Shivanya, break your leg if you have to but do not go with him." At this point, I was just conversing with myself.
"Do I really need this job? I mean I can easily go to the Himalayas and meditate for the rest of my life. Besides, the views would be amazing." My alter-ego talked to me.
"But your boss man is a complete view in himself." She said and my eyes widened.
"SHUT UP!" I threw myself on the couch and covered both my ears with cushions.
As the clock inched closer to seven, I found myself reluctantly getting ready and exactly five minutes past seven, my doorbell rang.
"Why could he not forget!? Uggghhh." I sighed, wore the earring and walked out of my bedroom to open the door.
As I opened the door, there he was: Vihaan Raichand, standing impeccably in a charcoal grey suit. It was like he had stepped out of a high-fashion magazine, every detail of his attire meticulously tailored to perfection.
"Mr. Raichand," I said, mustering a polite smile as I stepped aside to let him in. His eyes briefly scanned me, and I felt a rush of self-consciousness. I was wearing a deep blue saree, its intricate embroidery catching the faint light of the hallway.
"Shivanya," he greeted, his voice dropping to a softer, more intimate tone. "You look... stunning."
The compliment made my cheeks flush, though I tried to keep my composure. "Thank you. Let me just grab my clutch and we can leave."
I hurried to grab my clutch from the side table, checking that I had everything I needed. When I rejoined him, he was standing by the door, looking every bit the affluent gentleman. The cool evening air brushed against my skin as we stepped outside.
Vihaan's car was parked at the curb and he reached the passenger side first, opening the door for me.
"Please," he said with a smile which made my heart flutter for a split second, "after you."
I hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by his gesture. As I slid into the plush interior, I caught a glimpse of him through the open door, his eyes lingering on me with an unreadable expression. It was a small, but significant, touch of old-world courtesy that contrasted sharply with his usual intense demeanor.
He closed the door gently, then walked around to the driver's side.
The ride was silent for the next fifteen minutes, the soft hum of the engine filling the void between us. My mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, each one more pressing than the last. I was dying to ask him what exactly was going on in his head, to understand the meaning behind his words from earlier.
But him being the master of subtlety, seemed to be playing a game with me. There was a noticeable twitch in the corner of his mouth, a smile that was both knowing and maddeningly elusive. It was as if he was privy to some secret that I was desperately trying to decipher.
I shifted in my seat, trying to gather my thoughts and calm my racing heart. The occasional flicker of streetlights through the window cast fleeting shadows across his face, enhancing the knowing expression he wore.
Soon enough, we were at the wedding venue, Mr. Deshmukh was standing and when he saw us at the entrance, he made his way towards us.
"Vihaan! And Shivanya, how wonderful to see you both here!" He greeted us with genuine warmth, his hands clasping Vihaan's in a firm handshake.
"Mr. Deshmukh, thank you for the invitation," He responded smoothly "We are glad to be here. and Congratulations."
"Shivanya....I am so glad that you are here." Mrs. Deshmukh came and greeted me, holding my hands in hers.
"Congratulations Aunty." I said with a smile which she returned.
"Come, meet the my son and his bride." She said and I gave her a nod as we started to walk ahead while Mr. Raichand was following behind with Mr. Deshmukh.
As we walked through the beautifully decorated garden towards the bride and groom, the air was filled with the fragrance of roses. The night was alive with laughter and music, and fairy lights twinkled overhead like stars brought down to earth.
I felt a light touch on my shoulder, and as I turned, a single rose petal floated down in front of me. I looked around, confused, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. Shrugging it off, I continued walking, my eyes scanning the crowd.
A few steps later, another petal landed on my arm. This time, I quickly turned around, only to find Vihaan walking behind me with a completely serious expression, his hands clasped behind his back. I narrowed my eyes at him, but he just raised an eyebrow innocently.
"Are you alright?" he asked, his tone perfectly composed.
"Yes, I thought...never mind," I replied, shaking my head and turning back around.
As we continued, a light shower of petals fell around me. I spun around faster this time, catching a glimpse of Vihaan's hand quickly moving behind his back. His face remained a mask of stern professionalism, but I noticed the slight twitch at the corner of his mouth, hinting at a suppressed smile.
"Mr. Raichand, are you—"
"Am I what, Miss Chopra?" he interrupted, his voice filled with seriousness.
I glared at him playfully, trying to suppress my own smile. "You're impossible," I muttered, turning back around.
The petals kept falling, and with each turn, my suspicion grew. This time, I turned slowly, hoping to catch him in the act. As I did, I saw a flicker of movement—Vihaan's hand darting behind his back. He was quick, but not quick enough.
"Got you," I said triumphantly, my voice just loud enough for him to hear.
He smirked, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh? And what exactly did you catch, Miss Chopra?"
"Your hand," I replied, stepping closer. "It's you who's been showering me with petals."
He didn't deny it. Instead, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a few rose petals. "Guilty as charged," he admitted, his tone playful.
I couldn't help but laugh but as I looked around, I noticed the crowd had grown quiet, their eyes fixed on us.
I looked around to see people whose eyes were on Vihaan. Whispers and murmurs filled the air, and I could see the shock and curiosity in their faces. Vihaan Raichand, known as the Hawk of the Court, the man with a reputation for being stern and unapproachable had just ruined his reputation.
For what?
A little voice in my head, which I eventually ignored gave it's answer - ME.
Shivanya's Look -
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