OH OVERWHELMING LOVE!

✨CHAPTER 22✨

"Too long and to belong; yet still be lonely.........................."

Vatsal stared at the rejection email on his screen, disbelief mingling with frustration. It was the third time in the past week, and the fifth since he had returned from his leave. Each time, his editorials were dismissed without explanation, leaving him to wonder about the unfair treatment he seemed to be receiving.

He leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair, his mind racing. "This can't be happening again," he muttered to himself. He had poured his heart and soul into those pieces, each one meticulously crafted to meet the publication's standards. Yet, they were being brushed aside without a second glance.

The office buzzed with activity around him, oblivious to the storm raging within him. Colleagues passed by, exchanging casual greetings, unaware of the turmoil brewing under his calm exterior. Vatsal had always prided himself on his professionalism, but today, that façade was slipping.

He decided to confront his department head, hoping to gain some clarity on the situation. Knocking on the door, he entered cautiously, steeling himself for the conversation ahead.

"Ah, Vatsal," his head said, looking up from a stack of papers with a faint smile that did not reach his eyes. "What can I do for you?"

Vatsal took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady. "I wanted to discuss the recent rejections of my editorials," he began, choosing his words carefully. "I've noticed a pattern, and I'm concerned about the lack of feedback or explanation."

His head raised an eyebrow, his expression turning guarded. "You're concerned about feedback?" he echoed, his tone laced with thinly veiled irritation. "Vatsal, we have deadlines to meet. If your work isn't up to par, we have to move on."

Vatsal felt a surge of frustration. "With all due respect, sir, I believe my work meets the publication's standards," he countered, his voice firm. "I just need to understand where I'm falling short."

His head leaned back, steepling his fingers thoughtfully. "I see," he said slowly, his gaze piercing. "Let me be frank, Vatsal. This isn't the first time we've had this discussion. Perhaps you should consider taking some time off to reassess your priorities."

Vatsal's heart sank at the implied threat. "Are you suggesting... am I being fired?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

His head sighed heavily, a hint of impatience creeping into his tone. "Let's not jump to conclusions, Vatsal," he replied, his words measured. "But if you're this dissatisfied with the way things are going, maybe a break would do you good."

Vatsal felt a mix of anger and helplessness rising within him. It was clear that something deeper was at play here, something beyond his control. The unfairness of the situation gnawed at him, but he knew better than to push further.

"Thank you for your time," he said quietly, turning to leave. His head nodded dismissively, already engrossed in the papers on his desk.

As Vatsal walked back to his desk, a whirlwind of emotions churned inside him. He felt betrayed by the system he had devoted himself to, frustrated by the lack of transparency, and fearful of what the future held. But amidst the turmoil, one thing remained clear: he couldn't give up without a fight.

Back at his desk, he stared at the blinking cursor on his screen, thoughts racing. He knew he had to tread carefully, strategize his next move. Perhaps seeking advice from a trusted colleague or mentor could shed light on the situation. Or maybe it was time to consider other opportunities, to explore paths that would value his talent and dedication.

But as he sat there, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on him, one thing became certain. He wouldn't let this setback define him. With determination burning in his eyes, Vatsal squared his shoulders and began drafting a carefully worded email to a mentor he trusted, seeking guidance and support in navigating the storm ahead.