## Later That Evening at Singhaniya Enterprises
Back at the Singhaniya office, the atmosphere was markedly different. The polished glass-and-steel building was a beacon of modernity, standing tall against the skyline as a testament to the family's success. Inside, however, the tension was palpable.
Rudra Singhaniya, the eldest son and CEO of Singhaniya Enterprises, sat at his desk, his expression as unreadable as ever. His office was a study in sleek minimalism, with sharp lines and cool tones dominating the space. The large windows behind him offered a panoramic view of the city, but Rudra's attention was focused entirely on the documents in front of him.
Across from him sat Ravi, his loyal assistant, who was carefully reviewing the latest financial reports. Ravi had worked with Rudra long enough to know that his boss was a man of few words, but today there was an extra edge to Rudra's silence—an underlying tension that hinted at something more than just the usual business concerns.
After a few moments of silence, Rudra finally spoke, his voice calm but firm. "What's the status of the merger negotiations?"
Ravi looked up from the report, meeting Rudra's gaze. "The negotiations are progressing, but slowly. The other party is holding out for better terms. They're pushing for more favorable profit-sharing ratios, but our legal team is confident that we can reach a compromise."
Rudra's eyes narrowed slightly, a sign that he was deep in thought. "I want this merger to go through, but not at the expense of our company's interests. Make sure the legal team understands that. We have leverage—use it."
Ravi nodded, making a note in his planner. "Understood, sir. I'll communicate that to the team."
Rudra leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting to the cityscape outside the window. "This merger is crucial. It will open up new markets for us and solidify our position in the industry. But I won't allow them to think they can dictate terms. We need to maintain control."
Ravi could hear the underlying determination in Rudra's voice—a determination that had driven Singhaniya Enterprises to the top of the corporate world. But there was something else there too, something that Ravi had noticed more and more lately. Rudra was a man who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, and it was starting to show.
After a moment of silence, Ravi decided to broach a different subject—one that had been on his mind since the previous night. "Sir, if I may... I wanted to mention something personal."
Rudra's gaze shifted back to Ravi, his expression unreadable. "Go on."
Ravi hesitated for a moment, then continued. "It's about Anaya, your wife. She's been adjusting well to life in the Singhaniya household, but I've noticed that she's been trying to reach out to you... to connect in small ways. I think it would mean a lot to her if you acknowledged her efforts, even just a little."
Rudra's expression didn't change, but there was a noticeable pause before he responded. "What are you suggesting, Ravi?"
Ravi chose his words carefully, aware that he was treading on delicate ground. "I'm suggesting that you might consider taking a small step—acknowledge her efforts. It could be as simple as having dinner together, or a conversation outside of business matters. From what I've seen, it would make a significant difference."
Rudra remained silent, his gaze steady and unyielding as he processed Ravi's suggestion. Finally, he spoke, his tone measured and calm. "Anaya is my wife. I will fulfill my responsibilities to her. But right now, my focus needs to be on the business."
Ravi nodded, though he felt a pang of sympathy for Anaya. He knew better than to push further; Rudra was not a man who easily deviated from his course. "Of course, sir. I understand."
Rudra's gaze shifted back to the cityscape outside, his thoughts once again turning inward. The conversation had touched on a subject he wasn't yet ready to confront—the delicate balance between his professional responsibilities and his personal life. As the CEO of Singhaniya Enterprises, Rudra had always prioritized the company's success above all else, often at the expense of his own personal connections. But now, with a new wife and a new life to navigate, that balance was beginning to shift in ways he hadn't anticipated.
Before Ravi could leave, Rudra's phone buzzed, interrupting the silence. He glanced at the screen, his expression unreadable as he answered the call.
"Yes?" Rudra said, his voice curt and businesslike.
There was a brief pause as the person on the other end spoke, and Ravi could see the slight tightening of Rudra's jaw—a sign that whatever was being discussed wasn't to his liking.
"Understood," Rudra replied, his tone clipped. "Make the necessary arrangements, and I'll handle it personally."
With that, he ended the call and placed the phone back on his desk, his expression hardening. "Ravi, clear my schedule for the rest of the day. I have a matter to attend to."
Ravi's eyebrows lifted slightly in surprise. "Of course, sir. Should I notify the team?"
Rudra shook his head, already rising from his chair. "No, this is something I need to handle alone. Ensure that everything is in order when I return."
Ravi nodded, quickly gathering his things. "Yes, sir. I'll take care of it."
As Rudra strode out of the office, Ravi couldn't help but wonder what had prompted this sudden shift. Rudra was known for his composure, his ability to stay focused no matter the circumstances. But something had clearly disrupted that calm exterior, and Ravi could only hope that whatever it was, it wouldn't add to the already mounting tensions.
---
### Back at the Singhaniya Mansion
After their conversation with Komal, Ria, Misha, and Anaya set out on their much-anticipated shopping spree. The day had been filled with laughter, excitement, and a bit of indulgence as they moved from one high-end boutique to another, selecting new outfits for Anaya and picking up a few things for themselves.
By the time they returned to the mansion, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden light over the sprawling estate. The three women were still buzzing with energy as they carried their shopping bags inside, eager to show off their finds.
As they entered the grand foyer, they were greeted by the familiar scent of fresh flowers and the sound of soft classical music playing in the background. Komal was seated in the living room, a book in her lap, as she looked up to see the girls returning.
"You're back," Komal said with a warm smile, setting her book aside. "I trust you had a successful shopping trip?"
Ria grinned as she dropped her bags by the entrance. "You bet we did, Grandma! We found some amazing stuff for Anaya. She's going to look fabulous at all the family events coming up."
Misha nodded in agreement, placing her own bags on the floor. "And we might have picked up a few things for ourselves too. You know, just to keep up with the latest trends."
Anaya smiled, though her thoughts were still lingering on the conversation she'd had with Komal earlier. "Thank you, Grandmother. It was a lot of fun."
Komal's gaze softened as she looked at Anaya, her expression one of affection and understanding. "I'm glad, Anaya. You deserve to enjoy yourself. This is your home now, and it's important that you feel comfortable here."
Anaya nodded, though the idea of the mansion being her home still felt somewhat surreal. She had come a long way from the orphanage where she had grown up, and though she was grateful for the love and support of the Singhaniya family, there were still moments when she felt like she didn't quite belong.
Sensing Anaya's hesitation, Komal reached out and took her hand, guiding her to sit beside her on the plush sofa. "There's something else I wanted to talk to you about, Anaya," she said gently, her voice warm but firm.
Anaya looked at her grandmother-in-law, a slight nervousness creeping into her chest. "Of course, Grandmother. What is it?"
Komal gave her hand a reassuring squeeze before speaking. "I've been thinking about your living arrangements, my dear. You've been staying in the guest room since your wedding, and while that was fine for a short time, I believe it's time for you to move into your own room—your room with Rudra."
Anaya's eyes widened in surprise. "My room?"
Komal nodded, her tone patient but insistent. "Yes, Anaya. It's time for you and Rudra to start building your life together, and that begins with sharing a room. The guest room was a temporary arrangement, but now that you're part of this family, it's important that you and Rudra share a space that's yours."
Anaya felt her heart rate increase. She had grown accustomed to the guest room, finding comfort in the privacy it afforded her. The thought of moving into Rudra's room—*their* room—felt like a significant and intimidating step, especially considering how distant Rudra had been since their marriage.
"But, Grandmother... I don't want to impose on Rudra's space," Anaya said hesitantly. "He's been so... distant. I'm not sure if he's ready for that."
Komal's expression softened with understanding, but there was a firmness in her gaze. "I understand, Anaya. But you both are married it second day.. of your marriage. It's doesn't matter what situation were that time, but now you are married couples.
Rakhi intrupted, yes mom you are right but you know _"your grandson he never allows anyone in his room when he is there".
**To be continue..**