MaNan- Business and Beyond

1. The awkward beginning

The bustling city of Mumbai was already in full swing on this midweek Wednesday, with its inhabitants moving briskly through their routines. Nandini was no exception, rushing to her favorite cafe for her essential morning coffee fix. Unlike the typical bitter black coffee, she preferred her coffee strong with milk and sugar – the perfect blend to fuel her through the day.

"Good morning, Shreya! How's your day going?" Nandini greeted cheerfully as she approached the counter. Shreya, the new PA training under Nyonika, looked up and smiled.

"Good morning, ma'am. It's just started, and it's already busy," Shreya replied, handing Nandini her coffee.

Grabbing her cup, Nandini headed towards the office, sipping her coffee as she walked. Upon arrival, she caught up with Shreya again. "So, Shreya, any meetings to start with?" she asked, knowing Shreya coordinated most of the department's meetings.

"Yes, ma'am. There's one at 10 with the COO and Manik sir. It's about our new branch development and opening in Milan," Shreya informed her.

"Thanks for the heads up, Shreya. See you at the meeting," Nandini said, dismissing her.

Nandini's cabin was right next to Manik's, reflecting their close professional relationship. After finishing her coffee, she decided to quickly greet Manik before the meeting. She knocked on his door and entered to find him already engrossed in his laptop.

"Good morning, GM (General Manager)," she greeted him with a smile.

"Morning, Nandini. How many times do I have to tell you not to call me that? Just Manik is fine," he responded, smiling back.

"It's either boss or GM, you decide. Anyway, we have a meeting in 10."

"Yeah, I'm aware. But just so you know, we might not be able to take our team with us, because it's still in the development stage," Manik explained.

"Oh, okay. That's unfortunate," Nandini replied, slightly disappointed.

"Yeah, but manageable. We'll be there for a month and then return. Our team will support us virtually," Manik reassured her. Nandini nodded in understanding, and they headed to the meeting together.

During the meeting, their agenda for the Milan trip was discussed in detail. They were to meet with local partners, understand their expectations and trends, and convince the locals to choose their hospitality brand. They would also coordinate with the marketing team for global outreach. This was their goal for the next couple of months.

"Nandini, as you know, it's going to be just you and Manik. My best bets," Nyonika said, addressing them both. "You might not have your team's support physically, but you need to handle everything. I trust you both to succeed."

"Yes, mom. We will manage, and I've informed our team to support us virtually as needed," Manik replied confidently.

Nyonika nodded. "And once you both return successfully, Manik, you will have your CEO position, and Nandini, you will get your promotion. But remember, it's going to be difficult."

Both of them tensed at the gravity of the task, but Nandini nodded in affirmation. "So, when are we leaving for Milan? Given the urgency, my suggestion is to start as early as possible."

"Yes, Nandini, you're right. That's why I called you both today. You can leave the office now to prepare," Nyonika said.

"What? We just started the day! I need to check on my team's progress on our current project," Nandini protested, but Manik remained oddly silent, possibly aware of his mother's plans.

"I know you're responsible and a workaholic, Nandini. But your flight is tomorrow morning. It's a 13-hour journey. I need you both to pack and rest," Nyonika insisted.

Having no other choice, Nandini and Manik left the office individually, each heading home to pack for their month-long trip.

Back at Home:

Nandini stood in front of her open suitcase, contemplating how to pack for a month-long trip in just one day. She sighed, realizing the enormity of the task. She meticulously began gathering her clothes, toiletries, and work essentials, trying to fit everything into her suitcase.

As she packed, her phone buzzed with a message from Manik: If you need any assistance with the preparations, let me know.

She smiled at his thoughtfulness but replied: Thanks, but I think I've got it covered. See you at the airport.

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I am back with a story after what feels like eternity. Let me know through comments what you felt about this new begining? Also guys, feel free to share with MaNan fans to join us in exploring the dynamics of the story. Please do vote and comment. 

Lets be each others sunshine :)