The next morning, Sundar Prakash, the lawyer introduced by Raghuveer Chowdary, arrived at Amarasinghe Estate. The estate's grandeur—a sprawling mansion surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens—set the tone for the discussions ahead. Arjun, accompanied by Ananya and both sets of grandparents, awaited Sundar in the grand study.
"Master Arjun," Sundar began, addressing the young heir with due respect, "your inheritance is substantial. While your relatives are correct that a 14-year-old cannot legally manage these assets independently, there are provisions to appoint a guardian or trustee."
Arjun leaned forward. "I've already decided. My aunt, Saumya Ananya Chowdary, will be my guardian."
Sundar glanced at Ananya, who appeared both proud and anxious. "That's an unconventional choice, Master Arjun. Typically, someone with more experience—"
"She's the only one I trust," Arjun interrupted, his voice firm. "She's always had my back, and she's the reason I'm even standing here today."
Ananya looked at him, her eyes glistening with emotion. "I won't let you down," she said softly.
Sundar opened the thick portfolio he carried, detailing the assets Arjun now owned. Even the seasoned lawyer seemed awestruck by the scale.
Amarasinghe Estate: ₹200 crore
Agricultural Lands: ₹150 crore across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Investment Portfolio: Stocks in Tata Group, ITC, and Reliance Industries, worth ₹50 crore
Liquid Assets: Cash reserves and gold totaling ₹30 crore
"This is just the known valuation," Sundar explained. "With proper management, these assets could grow exponentially."
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of responsibility settling over everyone present. Arjun broke the silence. "Ananya will oversee everything. I want this estate to flourish."
To secure political allies, Rajendra Reddy arranged a meeting at Nellore's finest hotel. Arjun, Ananya, Sundar, and Rajendra were joined by Rajashekar Reddy, a prominent Congress leader, over a sumptuous Andhra-style lunch.
"So, young man," Rajashekar began, his deep voice resonating, "what do you plan to do with this empire you've inherited?"
Arjun smiled, exuding confidence beyond his years. "My parents built something remarkable. My job is to honor their legacy and expand it."
Rajashekar nodded approvingly. "You've got ambition, I'll give you that. But remember, in our country, success often hinges on political alliances."
"That's why I wanted to meet you," Arjun replied smoothly. "I believe Congress has the vision to support someone like me."
Rajashekar raised an eyebrow. "And what do you expect in return?"
"Only that you help me protect my assets now," Arjun said. "In the future, I'll make sure this alliance benefits you as much as it benefits me."
The politician chuckled, clearly impressed. "You've got guts, kid. Let's see where this partnership takes us."
As weeks passed, Arjun dove into understanding the estate's operations. Ravi Chowdary, the head butler, provided insights into the day-to-day management.
"Master Arjun," Ravi reported during a morning meeting, "our current cash flow is steady, but there's room for growth. Diversifying into real estate or businesses could yield significant returns."
"Noted," Arjun said, jotting down ideas in a notebook. "Keep me updated on the estate's expenses and income."
Meanwhile, Sundar ensured that the legal guardianship was transferred seamlessly to Ananya. Her name now stood as the official trustee of all assets, giving her the authority to manage the estate on Arjun's behalf.
One evening, as the family gathered on the estate's expansive balcony, Raghuveer spoke up. "Arjun, this estate, it's a symbol of your family's legacy. Protect it."
Arjun nodded, his gaze steady. "I will. And I'll make it even greater."
With immediate threats from scheming relatives neutralized, Arjun set his sights on the future. His education awaited—two months of 10th grade that he needed to complete. But more importantly, he knew this was just the start of a long journey.
As the sun set over Amarasinghe Estate, casting a golden glow over its sprawling grounds, Arjun felt a surge of determination. He was no longer just a 14-year-old boy mourning his parents. He was the heir to a legacy—and the architect of a future that would change everything