Wounds of the Heart (दिल के घाव)💔

77

The email notification buzzed on Rudra's phone, momentarily breaking his concentration.

He was in the midst of finalizing a complex investment strategy, his brow furrowed in thought. It was an invitation to a prestigious global conference on stock markets, held in the heart of New York City.

A spark of interest ignited within him. Attending such a conference would be a valuable opportunity to network with industry leaders and stay ahead of the curve. But a wave of hesitation washed over him. Did he really want to travel halfway across the world right now?

Just then, his ever-reliable secretary, Sarah, entered his office. Sensing his indecision, she offered a knowing smile. "Global Stock Market Conference in New York, Mr. Khanna? Sounds like an excellent opportunity."

Rudra sighed, leaning back in his chair. "It does, Sarah. But honestly, I'm not sure I'm in the mood for jet-setting right now."

Sarah raised an eyebrow. "Perhaps a change of scenery is exactly what you need, sir. It could be a stimulating break from the routine."

Rudra considered her words. Perhaps she was right. A few days away, surrounded by brilliant minds discussing the future of finance, could be a welcome distraction. He made his decision.

"Alright, Sarah," he announced, a hint of determination in his voice. "Book me a flight to New York. And while you're at it, see if there are any interesting events happening around the conference dates."

"Consider it done, Mr. Khanna." Sarah smiled, a glint of satisfaction in her eyes.
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Meanwhile, a similar scene unfolded across the city, in the bustling heart of Mumbai.

At Raizada Industries, Abhimanyu scrolled through his emails, a thoughtful frown etching itself onto his forehead. The email displayed an invitation to the very same conference in New York.

A mischievous glint entered his eyes. He quickly drafted a text message, his fingers flying across the screen.

"Hey Kunj, guess what? Looks like we're both headed to New York for a swanky stock market conference!" he typed with a playful grin.

Across town, Kunj received the notification with a chuckle. Abhimanyu's eagerness was both endearing and slightly predictable.

"Don't even think about it, Raizada," he replied, feigning annoyance. "Maa won't be happy if she finds out I'm flying across the country with you, especially after... well, you know."

Abhimanyu pouted - virtually, of course. "Come on, Kunj," he pleaded. "Think of it as a chance to combine business with pleasure! We could explore the city together, catch up on lost time...you could show your favourite spots you lived there for so long come on na"

Kunj couldn't help but smile at Abhimanyu's persistent optimism. He knew all too well ma wouldn't be thrilled about him spending unsupervised time with Abhimanyu, recent history being what it was.

"Look, Abhimanyu," he typed, his tone softening. "I appreciate the offer, but it's just not a good idea right now. Maa would have me locked up in the house if she even suspected..."

Understanding dawned on Abhimanyu. He knew pushing it wouldn't help. Leela aunty's protectiveness over Kunj was a hurdle they had to navigate carefully.

With a resigned sigh, he sent a final text. "Alright, Kunj. I understand. But hey, maybe fate will intervene and we'll bump into each other in New York anyway. Stranger things have happened, right?"

Kunj chuckled, a secret hope flickering within him. "Maybe," he replied, leaving the possibility open.

The prospect of attending the conference in New York, albeit separately, sent a thrill through him. Who knew, perhaps fate truly did have a way of working its magic, even across continents.

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The warm glow of the chandelier bathed the Khurana mansion dining room in a soft light as Kunj hesitantly cleared his throat. Leela and Twinkle, engrossed in animated conversation, about today turned to him with curious smiles.

"Maa, Twinkle," he began, his voice laced with a hint of nervousness, "I have some news."

"News?" Leela echoed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "What is it, beta?"

"I received an invitation to a... a global conference on stock markets," Kunj revealed, watching their reactions carefully.

A collective gasp filled the room, followed by a wave of excitement. Twinkle's eyes widened in awe. "Wow, Kunj! That's amazing! A global conference in New York City,wow that's such prestigious event ,no less! I'm so proud of you!"

Leela beamed, a touch of maternal pride softening her features. "That is wonderful news, beta! This is a fantastic opportunity for you to learn from the best and showcase your talent to the world. You absolutely have to go!"

Kunj felt a pang of guilt wash over him. He hadn't told them about Abhimanyu's participation in the conference, fearing Leela's immediate disapproval.

He knew her animosity towards Abhimanyu ran deep, and the thought of her reaction if she discovered their renewed closeness sent shivers down his spine.

He forced a smile, masking his internal conflict. "Thank you, Maa. I was thinking the same thing."

Twinkle, oblivious to the turmoil within Kunj, clapped her hands with glee. "New York City! You'll have to send me tons of pictures, Kunj! Maybe you can even visit some of those famous landmarks - Times Square, the Empire State Building..."

Kunj nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. He joined their conversation, discussing potential travel plans and packing essentials.

All the while, a silent apology echoed within him, directed at his mother. He wished he could be completely honest, share the excitement of possibly encountering Abhimanyu in New York. But the fear of ma's potential reaction held him back.

He carried the weight of this secret throughout the rest of the dinner, a bittersweet undercurrent to the joyful conversation.

As he finally retreated to his room, the excitement of the conference mingled with the guilt of his deception. He yearned for the day when his relationship with Abhimanyu wouldn't be a forbidden secret, a day when he could be open and honest with his mother.

But for now, he could only hope for the best, for a chance encounter in New York, a chance to rekindle their connection without Leela's disapproving gaze.

As he drifted off to sleep, the bustling streets of New York City danced in his dreams, a city that held the promise of both professional advancement and a rekindled love, if fate would only play its hand.