Reshimbandh~Silken Threads

22. Reconciliation

ETF

Chotu walked into the conference room where the team was busy with paperwork. "Neha, how many people have you punched?"

"I don't keep a list, but why?" She shrugged.

"Arjun sir and his friend were probably talking about you and punching." Chotu took his seat.

Neha looked through the glass door and caught a glimpse of the stranger. "Not sure why that was being discussed, I don't remember that man."

Sakshi smiled playfully, "Do you really like punching people, Neha?"

"It's satisfying. Not that I like it." She winked.

A few minutes later, Arjun came in.
"Who came to meet you?" Neha asked.

"Siddharth." Arjun picked the file, settling on the chair.

"Arora?" She raised her brow, he nodded.  "Why was that asshole here?"

"No name-calling."

"I'm glad he still remembers my punch." Neha smiled proudly.

"It's not funny." Arjun glared.

"Why did you punch him?" Chotu asked.

"I was ten, so it might not be the accurate story but here's my version. So, we were all playing in our neighborhood park. It was a volleyball match and they were sore losers."

"Neha." Arjun's stern voice scared everyone.

"So, this ass-" Neha bit her tongue. "So, bhaiya was running around and Siddharth puts his foot in the way and bhaiya trips over it, falling head on and this guy starts laughing. I saw that everyone got busy so I walk upto this guy, punch him in the guts and he doubles down. Then I punch his stupid face and he's on the ground, crying."

"You were ten?" Aisha asked in disbelief. Neha nods. "What did your parents say?"

Neha chuckled. "That's a fun story, too. After bhaiya was brought home with stitches and all, this guy comes to our house with his parents. He goes like she punched me." She imitates his high-pitched tone. "My dad looks at him, no signs of hitting. You're saying, this little girl hit a boy twice her size? Come on Mr. Arora, if you came to complain about my boys, I'd understand. But look at my sweet little girl, you think she would do that?"

"You're a dark horse." Aisha smiled.

"Then Mr. Arora was like whatever, this shouldn't happen again. I was like uncle, ask your child to keeps his legs together."

"You're a wild child!" Shree looked at her bewildered.

"So, after they left with some more drama, my dad is like, did anyone see you punch him? I said no. He said, good. Next time, hit harder."

Sakshi raised her brow. "Can't believe you're dad is an enabler."

"He's ex army officer, who do you think taught me that punch in the first place?" Neha wrung her fist.

Sameer sighed. "Things were fine as long as they were reserved to punches. These days you don't even hesitate in taking them out."

Neha gasped. "Well chief, one murder is life imprisonment and so is hundred. Sky is the limit, what do you think?"

Sameer and Arjun locked eyes with each other.

"Aren't you afraid of the day you're caught?" Sakshi asked.

"I can afford the best lawyer, sweetheart.  I don't leave no trail, anyway. Just a caution, don't mess with me." Neha winked.

"Enough, finish up your paperwork, everyone." Sameer said.