The Silence Between Us

CHAPTER - 13

                    --Ayaan's POV--

Excitement pulses through me as I see the golden opportunity I've been dreaming of finally within reach. I'll pull out all the stops to woo those clients and seize this chance.

Summoning Karan to my office, I dive straight into action.

"Karan, we've got to dive into prepping for that presentation coming up in just four days. We need those clients on board, no matter what it takes," I assert with determination.

"Absolutely, sir. I'll get started right away," Karan responds promptly.

"No time to waste, Karan. We've got to pour our hearts and souls into this. Let's gather our materials and set up shop in my cabin. Every detail counts, so let's make sure we leave them no choice but to choose us," I urge, feeling the rush of adrenaline as we embark on this mission together.

With all the passion and determination we start off with our work.

THE BATTLE BEGINS HERE.

                        --AYESHA POV--

As Amaira and I delve into our presentation preparations, the tension hangs thick in the air, with only two days remaining to determine the victory of this initial round as I know very well that this is not the end. Not about being in this industry, it's about competing HIM.

My relentless dedication over the past couple of days has seen me burning the midnight oil, pushing myself to the limits and arriving home long after the world has gone to sleep.

This abrupt transformation feels like a seismic shift in my existence, turning my once leisurely late-night habits of binge-watching series and diving into books into distant memories.

Every sacrifice, every ounce of effort, now converges on these final two days, where the outcome hangs in the balance, a testament to whether my toil will bear fruit or fall by the wayside.

              ~ 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 ~

--𝗔𝗬𝗘𝗦𝗛𝗔 𝗣𝗢𝗩--

I arrived in the conference room. The moment I stepped in the room, I could feel the tension just by standing in there. I was feeling nervous like snakes squirming inside, making it hard to breath. Many doubts and fears were swirling in my mind, that I could not think straight. Every heartbeat sound like a thunder, like it's getting out of my control. I could not control it but still in this chaos, there was a spark of determination that no matter what I will have to do my best and grab this opportunity.

I looked around and saw those competitors, the passion to convince the clients can be seen right through their eyes. Making my way, I took my seat while taking a deep breath.

The moment I relaxed I saw him entering in the room. And here goes all my peace. Our eyes met, but this time more passionately and intimidating. Everytime we come across, this the room fills with tension and glares. It feels like we would take each other's life for our own sake and who knows if it happens.

He took a seat right next to me and now I just forgot all the doubts and fears. I am not nervous anymore, I just feel confident now to that I am gonna snatch this opportunity this time at any cost.

                      --𝗔𝗬𝗔𝗔𝗡 𝗣𝗢𝗩--

As soon as I took the seat, I could feel the rage in her eyes while sitting beside me. Well, the results will make her more infuriated and she will be left alone with her rage only because this deal is only mine.

To provoke her, I whispered through her ears while leaning towards her, - "So, are you ready to witness your defeat? "

She whispered through my ears- " Obviously, I came here to see your defeat with my own very eyes. So, don't worry I am all ready to witness it." 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘥.

"I know it's not easy to accept it but the way I took the deal from your father, the same way you will also face this defeat." I stated with assurance.

"I know your ways, CHEATING. Right? That's the only way for you to win because you left all the ethics and pride behind with your luck to win. So, the only way you can win is by unethical methods and to be honest, that suits you." She said with a confident smile.

"Whatever you say, but the God knows who is the best one to deserve it." I said as I couldn't say anything further. I started this to provoke her but ended up being provoked.

"Yes, may the best person wins" She replied with a smirk.

I couldn't stand her anymore. Her confidence is more than what I measured. I can't understand that without any achievement, from where this attitude and confidence comes from.

When I was all caught up in the strings of my thoughts, the investors made their way in the conference room. Everyone stood up to to show a sense of respect towards them.
After a moment, everyone took their seats.

"I hope you all are ready with your presentations. Based on your presentations, we will make our final decision. I wish you all the very best. So,without further ado let's kick start the presentations with Bold Builders."
The clients announced.

Without further delay, the presentations started. One by one everyone came and all presentations more better than before. I could feel the competition among everyone to show their best. The determination to achieve it and passion to create.

But everytime I tried to notice the investors expression, they were hard to read. I could just make out that they are really hard to impress. Because the level of presentations everyone did till now was honestly appreciable and discernible.

As moments ticked away, it finally arrived—my moment. The time for me to shine had come. With a deep breath, I stepped forward, ready to unveil my prowess. As I began my presentation, the words flowed effortlessly from my lips, each syllable pronounced with precision.

As we neared the conclusion, my heart pounded with anticipation. I scanned the faces of the investors, hoping to catch a glimpse of satisfaction. Yet, what greeted me was a smile of appreciation, not the fulfillment I had hoped for. Despite this, I clung to a glimmer of hope as I took my seat, awaiting their response.

Now, it's her turn. Ayesha Singhania. She stood up with full confidence shining on her face. Just a moment ago, she was nervous as hell and now she seems like someone who does this on a daily basis. She started with her presentation. Honestly, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥.

Despite everything, she indeed is a good speaker who can catch anyone's attention. And the fear became real when I saw a wide smile on the investors face, the smile I was expecting for myself but... Although their decision is yet to declare. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘥.

After a brief discussion, the clients got ready to declare the results. The tension was palpable as the clients prepared to reveal their decision. We were all on edge, like cats on hot bricks. Finally, the moment arrived.

"We are thrilled to announce that we are going to invest in Singhania's designs. We are pleased to invest in your company. " The clients announced.

"Thank you so much sir, we are really exhilarated to work with you."
Ayesha's heartfelt gratitude echoed in her enthusiastic response. Her joy was palpable, and it was clear she was over the moon.

Right at this moment, rage is the only thing coursing through me, burning like a wildfire in my veins. I put my heart and soul into this, poured out every ounce of effort, sacrificed so much, but what do I have to show for it? Just this crushing sense of defeat. All I want is to unleash my fury, wreck this room, but I manage to rein myself in, not wanting to cause any damage. Yet, Ayesha's look only intensifies my anger. It's like she's mocking me, making a joke at my expense, and it's unbearable.

                     ---𝘼𝙮𝙚𝙨𝙝𝙖 POV---
              [Spoiler for next chapter]

A dazzling figure burst into my office, carrying a stunning bouquet and dressed to the nines in a perfectly tailored suit.