_________@UTHOR'S POV:~~
Pranali quickened her pace as she approached the washroom, her mind racing. She felt a pang of guilt as she thought about Anaya—a new intern who had already been given a significant task. Now, thanks to Kunal's carelessness, Anaya was not only dealing with the stress of the ruined letter but also a coffee-stained outfit. Poor girl, Pranali thought, feeling responsible as Anaya's supervisor.
When Pranali reached the washroom, she knocked gently on the door before stepping inside. She found Anaya standing at the sink, furiously scrubbing her shirt with wet paper towels, her frustration evident in her every movement. The approval letter was placed on the counter, drying in a crumpled mess, with large coffee stains still visible across the page.
"Anaya?" Pranali said softly as she stepped closer, trying not to startle her.
Anaya glanced at her through the mirror, her face a mixture of annoyance and embarrassment. "I can't believe this happened," she muttered, wiping at a stubborn coffee stain on her sleeve. "I worked so hard to get that approval, and now… look at it." She gestured to the ruined letter with a defeated sigh.
Pranali moved beside her, glancing at the letter and then back at Anaya. "I know," she said, her voice calm and reassuring. "But don't worry. We'll fix this. It's not the end of the world."
Anaya shook her head, feeling a lump of frustration forming in her throat. "It feels like everything is going wrong. First, I got the letter approved, and now it's destroyed. I'm only a week into this job, and I'm already messing things up."
Pranali placed a hand gently on Anaya's shoulder. "Hey, this isn't your fault. Kunal should have been more careful, and these kinds of things happen. You're not messing up—you're doing great, especially for someone who's just started."
Anaya bit her lip, her shoulders sagging as she let out a deep breath. "It just feels like too much sometimes," she admitted quietly. "I'm trying to keep up with everything, and I don't want to disappoint anyone."
Pranali nodded in understanding. "I get it, Anaya. It's overwhelming at first, but you're stronger than you think. You've been doing really well, and I'm proud of how you've handled everything so far."
Anaya looked up, surprised by Pranali's kind words. She hadn't expected this level of support, especially after what had just happened. "You think so?" she asked, her voice soft.
"Absolutely," Pranali replied with a warm smile. "And as for the letter, Kunal said he'll talk to Mr. Verma and explain the situation. We'll get it reapproved. I'll also have a word with him about being more careful."
Anaya smiled faintly, feeling a little better, though her shirt still clung uncomfortably to her skin. "Thanks, Pranali. I just didn't want to cause any trouble."
"You're not causing trouble," Pranali assured her. "Now, let's get you cleaned up. You can borrow one of my extra blazers from my office until you get home."
Anaya nodded gratefully. "That would be great, thank you."
Pranali handed her some more paper towels and helped Anaya clean up as best as they could. Once Anaya was more presentable, Pranali stepped back, giving her an encouraging look.
"You've got this, Anaya. Just take it one step at a time," Pranali said before adding with a small grin, "And try to avoid bumping into Kunal in the future."
Anaya laughed lightly, her spirits lifting as she grabbed the soggy letter from the counter. "I'll definitely try."
As they exited the washroom together, Pranali led Anaya to her office to get the blazer. Despite the earlier mess, Anaya felt a sense of relief knowing she had Pranali's support. She still had a lot to learn and a lot to prove, but moments like this reminded her she wasn't alone.
Once Anaya was settled with a fresh blazer, she made her way back to her desk to regroup. There was still work to be done, and despite the setback, she was determined to see it through.
---
Meanwhile, Kunal sat at his desk, tapping his fingers nervously against the table. He couldn't stop thinking about his clumsy accident with Anaya and how he had spilled coffee all over her and that crucial approval letter. He had meant to help her, not make things worse.
With a sigh, he checked his phone again, contemplating how he would approach Mr. Verma. I've got to make this right, he thought, pushing his chair back and standing up.
Determined to fix his mistake, Kunal set off toward Mr. Verma's office, hoping he could smooth things over for Anaya and himself. As much as he could be brash, he wasn't the type to leave someone in a mess he had caused.
The office was full of quiet murmurs and the sound of keyboards clicking away as Kunal weaved through the cubicles. Today wasn't going as planned for anyone, but at least, he thought, he could try to make it right.
After the chaos of the day, Anaya felt a wave of relief wash over her as she finally completed her tasks. It was now past 8 PM, and the office was quieting down. She gathered her belongings and headed toward Pranali's desk.
"Hey, Pranali," Anaya said, her voice hopeful. "I've finished my work for the day. Is it okay if I head home? It's getting late."
Pranali looked up from her computer and nodded with a smile. "Of course, Anaya. You did a great job today. Just remember to take things at your own pace. You're still getting the hang of everything."
Anaya smiled back, grateful for her understanding. "Thanks! But we need to go out for dinner together sometime soon. I'd love to get to know you better outside of the office."
Pranali grinned. "Absolutely! Just let me know when you're free."
With a final wave, Anaya walked out of the office, feeling lighter. As she made her way toward the parking area, she noticed Kunal still at his desk, his expression a mix of concentration and guilt. She decided to give him a wave as she passed, but he didn't look up, buried in his thoughts.
Once outside, Anaya spotted Ravi waiting for her by his car, a sleek sedan that gleamed in the dim light. He was always so reliable, and she appreciated his friendship. As she approached, Ravi noticed the coffee stain on her shirt but opted to keep silent about it. Instead, he opened the door for her, his usual friendly demeanor evident.
"Hey, how was your day?" he asked as she climbed into the passenger seat.
"It was... eventful," Anaya replied, feeling the weight of the day's earlier mishaps. "But I made it through."
Ravi turned the car on and began driving. A comfortable silence settled between them, punctuated only by the soft hum of the engine and the rhythm of the city outside. Anaya appreciated this quiet bond they shared; it was like being with a brother. She didn't have to explain herself or pretend to be someone she wasn't.
As they approached the Singhaniya mansion, Anaya's mood lifted at the sight of the familiar, welcoming home. She could see Ria heading toward the entrance, her excitement palpable.
"Anaya!" Ria shouted, rushing over and enveloping her in a warm hug. "Finally! My bestie is home! I've missed you!"
Anaya laughed, returning the embrace. "I missed you too! It feels so good to be back."
Just as she was about to continue, their grandmother, Komal, called out from the porch, "Let her rest first, Ria. I know she's your best friend, but she needs some time to unwind. Come, dear, sit here with me."
Anaya made her way to the porch, settling into a comfortable chair next to her grandmother. Ria joined her, fidgeting with excitement.
"Grandma, you should have seen how much I worked today! Anaya's a pro already," Ria declared with a grin.
"Oh really?" Komal replied, arching an eyebrow playfully. "And how did she do?"
Anaya felt a blush creep up her cheeks. "I tried my best. Just a few hiccups along the way, but nothing I couldn't handle," she said modestly.
Just then, Misha, Ria's younger sister, appeared with a plate of snacks. "I brought some of your favorites! You must be starving after such a long day."
"Thanks, Misha! You're the best," Anaya said, taking a couple of snacks and munching happily.
As they chatted, Rakhi entered the scene with a tray of steaming tea and cookies. "I thought you might like some refreshments after your long day, Anaya. And Ravi, do you want some tea too?" she offered, looking at him.
Ravi shook his head politely, but before he could speak, Ria interjected, "Mom, he's not like me—he doesn't love food as much."
Ravi smirked, glancing at Ria with a teasing expression. "Yes, I'm fit, but I'm a bit in a hurry, unlike you, Miss Ria. But thank you, Mrs. Singhaniya; may I take some of those delicious cookies with me? I need a snack for the road."
"Of course! Just make sure to share some with your friends," Rakhi said, handing him a small bag filled with cookies.
"Will do, Mrs. Singhaniya," Ravi replied with a grin as he packed the cookies away.
As they settled into a more comfortable conversation, Anaya felt a sense of belonging wash over her. The warmth and camaraderie of the family reminded her of the closeness she had missed in her own life. Yet, a shadow of her secret loomed in the back of her mind—she couldn't let anyone know her true background or the struggles she faced alone.
"Anaya," Ria said, breaking her train of thought, "you should tell Grandma and Mom about your day at work! They'll love to hear how you're doing."
"Maybe later," Anaya replied, trying to divert the topic. "It's still early in my internship. I don't want to jinx anything."
"Oh come on! You're not jinxing anything. You're doing great! You should be proud," Ria insisted.
Ravi, who had been quietly observing the interaction, chimed in, "Ria's right. You've taken on a lot already, and it's impressive how well you're handling it. Just remember, you don't have to hide anything from us. We're family."
Anaya glanced at him, touched by his sincerity. "Thanks, Ravi. That means a lot. I just... don't want to be a burden."
"You're never a burden, Anaya. Family looks out for each other, and that includes you," Rakhi interjected, her voice warm and maternal.
Anaya nodded, feeling the weight of their words. "I appreciate that. It's just... sometimes, I wish I could share everything without worrying about how it would change things."
"Sharing can be scary, but you'd be surprised at how much we all understand," Ria said, her tone softening. "I had my fair share of worries too."
Anaya smiled, feeling the bond between them deepen. It was moments like this that reminded her she wasn't alone. "Maybe one day, I'll be brave enough to share everything," she said, her heart swelling with hope.
Ravi exchanged glances with Ria and Misha, all of them nodding in agreement. They understood the importance of family, of trust, and of being there for each other, no matter the circumstances.
As the night continued, laughter and conversations filled the air, creating a tapestry of love and support. Anaya realized that this was where she belonged, surrounded by family who cared for her. Even with the hidden burdens she carried, she felt a glimmer of hope that perhaps, one day, she could share her truth and still feel safe and loved.
And with that thought, she leaned back in her chair, allowing the warmth of their presence to envelop her, at least for the moment.
_________________
As Rudra entered the Singhaniya mansion, a wave of familiarity washed over him, but it was overshadowed by the tension he carried from the office. He felt the weight of responsibility pressing down on him, making him acutely aware of the challenges that lay ahead. His father, Mr. Singhaniya, followed closely behind, his expression unreadable.
"Rudra," Mr. Singhaniya called, his voice firm yet laced with a hint of concern. "Come to my study after you freshen up."
Rudra nodded, his heart racing slightly. There was something serious about the tone his father used that made him uneasy. He wanted to shake off the day's stress, but he couldn't help but wonder what discussion awaited him.
As he made his way upstairs to his room, he could hear laughter and chatter emanating from the hall below, where all the ladies of the house were gathered. Ria's cheerful voice rang out, followed by Misha's giggles and Rakhi's gentle laughter. The sound was comforting, a reminder of the warmth of family life that always welcomed him home.
After a quick shower, Rudra took a moment to gather his thoughts. He stared at his reflection in the mirror, noting the dark circles under his eyes and the furrow in his brow. Work had been consuming him lately, and the pressure to perform was mounting. But he had little time to dwell on his worries; he needed to face his father.
As he stepped into the study, Rudra found Mr. Singhaniya standing by the window, looking out at the sprawling garden. The room was filled with the scent of leather and old books, and the dim light cast shadows around the walls.
"Sit down, Rudra," Mr. Singhaniya said without turning around. His voice was steady, but there was a weight behind it that made Rudra apprehensive.
Taking a seat, Rudra cleared his throat. "Dad, is everything okay?"
Mr. Singhaniya finally turned to face him, his expression serious. "I've been noticing you've been more withdrawn lately. You've got a lot on your plate, and I want to know if you're handling it well."
Rudra hesitated. "I'm managing, but there are some issues with the project I'm overseeing. There are delays, and it's affecting our timeline. I'm trying to sort it out."
His father nodded, considering his words. "You've always been dedicated, but I don't want you to bear this weight alone. If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out to your team, or even me."
"I appreciate that, Dad," Rudra said, feeling a bit of relief. "But I need to prove myself, especially after what happened last year. I can't afford any more setbacks."
Mr. Singhaniya studied him for a moment, his gaze softening. "Rudra, I have faith in your abilities. Remember, it's okay to ask for guidance. You're not just a leader; you're also a part of this family. Lean on us when you need to."
Rudra nodded, feeling a swell of gratitude. "I will. Thank you for understanding."
"Now, go join your family. They've been waiting for you," Mr. Singhaniya said, dismissing him with a wave of his hand.
As Rudra walked back into the hall, he was greeted by the lively atmosphere. Ria and Misha were sitting on the couch, their heads bent together, whispering and giggling, while Rakhi served tea and snacks.
"Hey, look who finally decided to join us!" Ria exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "The busy CEO graces us with his presence!"
"Very funny, Ria," Rudra replied, unable to suppress a smile. "I'm just trying to keep this family afloat."
"By hiding in your study?" Misha chimed in playfully. "You know you can't avoid us forever!"
Rudra shook his head, feeling lighter despite the weight of his responsibilities. "I'm not avoiding you. Just had some things to discuss with Dad."
"Serious things?" Ria asked, her expression turning curious.
"Nothing you need to worry about," Rudra said, deflecting. He knew they meant well, but he wasn't ready to share his burdens with them just yet.
Rakhi, noticing the subtle tension in the air, decided to change the subject. "Anaya, how was your day? I hope work is treating you well."
Anaya looked up from her spot on the couch, a smile breaking across her face. "It was challenging but rewarding. I learned a lot today, even if it came with a few mishaps."
"Like the coffee incident?" Ria teased, winking at Anaya.
Anaya laughed, rolling her eyes. "Let's not revisit that. I think I'm still traumatized."
"Well, you survived, didn't you?" Rakhi said, her tone encouraging. "And tomorrow is another day. You'll get the hang of it."
"Exactly! And when we go out for dinner, you can tell us all about your adventures at work!" Misha added, her enthusiasm infectious.
Rudra watched Anaya, noting the way her face lit up when she spoke about her day. It was a stark contrast to his own feelings of tension. He admired her resilience, even if he couldn't fully relate to her carefree spirit.
As the evening wore on, the family settled into their usual rhythm. Laughter echoed through the mansion, and for a moment, Rudra allowed himself to forget the pressures waiting for him at work. He engaged in lighthearted banter with Ria and Misha, stealing glances at Anaya, who was animatedly discussing her experiences.
But beneath the laughter, Rudra couldn't shake the feeling of anxiety that gripped him. He had to keep pushing forward, not just for himself, but for his family and the future they were building together.
And as the night deepened, he realized that perhaps sharing his burdens wouldn't be so bad after all. It was time to let them in, little by little, even if it meant revealing the cracks in his carefully constructed facade.
To be continue...***