First In Time

6. Never Answer

Lockup Uptown Townsend Sendway

The stage was alive with excitement as the lights dimmed, and the audience settled in. Nightshine stepped forward, radiating charm.

"Welcome, everyone! We've got a fantastic show for you today!"

"Thanks for having me, Nightshine! It's great to be here," Archana replied, her enthusiasm infectious.

"Absolutely! Today, we have the incredible Archana, the Managing Director of Pharmaceuticals at Vajra International. We're diving into everything from cutting-edge innovation to the ups and downs of love. So, let's get the ball rolling! Archana, tell us about your journey and how you landed at Vajra."

"Sure! Buckle up—it's a bit of a ride!" Archana chuckled. "I've got a medical degree and spent my college years knee-deep in research. Let's just say I was a bit of a whirlwind back then when I crossed paths with Vajra."

"Sounds like quite the adventure! What pulled you into the pharmaceutical world, and what led you here?" Nightshine asked, leaning in with curiosity.

"Honestly, medicine has always been my jam. I was doing research for two years before tying the knot. One thing I learned is that, wow, I know next to nothing compared to the mountain of research happening worldwide. The innovation at Vajra International? It's like magic! The company operates like a finely tuned orchestra—everyone plays their part, and it's all synchronized beautifully. It's honestly fascinating."

"Speaking of magic, let's talk about the recent launch of the Cathra vaccines. That was a game-changer!" Nightshine said, his eyes sparkling.

"Absolutely! We managed to develop those vaccines in just 14 months—a world record!" Archana said, her excitement bubbling over. "But it wasn't all smooth sailing. We lost eight brilliant research analysts to the Cathra virus along the way. They knew the risks but charged ahead anyway. We're forever grateful for their sacrifices. Every breath we take is a tribute to their bravery. The pressure was intense, and we had to hustle through testing and public use. And let me tell you, our vaccine has an 80% efficacy rate, but I know we can do more !"

"Why's that?" Nightshine raised an eyebrow.

"Because we're not stopping there! We're developing vaccines tailored to specific blood types, and we're experimenting with dosages for kids and seniors. We want everyone to be safe. Our mission is to ensure everyone—regardless of background—has access to the best possible healthcare, " Archana grinned.

"Is there a chance of the virus making a comeback? If so, what's your game plan?" Nightshine probed, intrigued.

"The vaccine's provides robust protection . You won't be affected again,. The antibodies last a lifetime . Plus, we're crafting supportive medications just in case. Let's face it, getting Cathra is no picnic; it wrecks your red blood cells' ability to soak up oxygen. The vaccine helps your immune system kick the virus to the curb, and over time, your red blood cell count goes back up. Full recovery takes a couple of months, but we're expecting on seeing great improvements!"

"Fantastic! Now, what about the cost of these life-saving vaccines?" Nightshine asked, a touch of seriousness in his tone.

"As per Indra's orders, we're selling the vaccines at cost—no profit here! If people can't afford them, they can visit our Vajra Health Care Hospital or Vajra Wellness Clinics for free treatment. We're all about making healthcare accessible for everyone. My husband, Vajra, is super passionate about this—no one is be left behind!" Archana declared, her pride evident.

"Speaking of Vajra, you mentioned Indra earlier. What's his role in all this?" Nightshine inquired.

"Ah, Indra is a fascinating character! He's the mastermind behind many companies and provides us with financial support when needed. Vajra and Indra are like brothers—inseparable! Vajra runs the show at Vajra International, which has factories, specialty hospitals, and two schools, employing about thirteen thousand people. We're on a mission to build a brighter future for the next generation," Archana explained, her eyes shining.

"That's really inspiring!" Nightshine said, impressed. "Now, let's switch gears and talk about your personal life. Are you ready to spill the tea?"

"Absolutely!" Archana laughed, her demeanor lightening.

"Alright, Ms. Archana, how comfortable are you sharing your personal story with us?" Nightshine asked, leaning in closer.

"Let's just say it's been a wild ride! I've spent years hiding and trusting the wrong people. It took a lot of courage to reach where I am now, thanks to Vajra's incredible friends and their unwavering support. I finally feel free to be myself!" Archana said, her voice filled with warmth.

"How did you find that freedom?" Nightshine asked, genuinely curious.

"Well, it all started on my wedding day. Picture this: I hadn't met Vajra before—it was an arranged marriage! His father passed away when he was young, which shaped who he is. His friends, Momo and Indra, came to my parents with Vajra's mom. My family jumped at the chance without even asking me!" Archana chuckled, shaking her head.

"Wait, really?" Nightshine exclaimed, wide-eyed.

"Yup! I had no clue what he looked like until the wedding! I just knew he worked at Vajra International as a manager. I didn't realize he was the owner! It's not your typical corporate setup—there's no board of directors. It's all Vajra—he's the captain of this ship!" Archana laughed.

"You didn't know? In this day and age? That's wild!" Nightshine said, incredulous.

"I was kind of all over the place, honestly. I didn't have many friends. My one best friend worked at Vajra, and she filled my head with all sorts of stories about him. She claimed he was a sadist who loved making his employees squirm! Can you believe that?" Archana rolled her eyes, laughing.

"Did she seriously tell you that on your wedding day?" Nightshine asked, chuckling.

"Oh, yes! I was shocked when she pulled me aside during the reception and started spilling the tea about him! I was thinking, 'Oh great, the man I just married is a monster!' But let me tell you, she couldn't have been more wrong," Archana said, shaking her head.

"Wait, are you saying Vajra is not the pervert she claimed?" Nightshine asked, leaning back in his chair.

"Exactly! He's the total opposite of everything she said!" Archana exclaimed.

"How did you figure that out?" Nightshine leaned in, eager to hear more.

"Well, we got married and returned to my house for the formal greetings. I was a bundle of nerves, especially about our consummation. I mean, I was freaking out—wondering if he would force himself on me or worse. My heart was racing like a jackrabbit!" Archana chuckled nervously.

"Continue..." Nightshine encouraged, his curiosity piqued.

"My mother helped me into this beautiful light blue silk saree, giving me all sorts of 'how-to' advice for the night. She was like, 'Just be graceful and accept whatever he does because he's your husband!' It was a lot of pressure!" Archana laughed, shaking her head.

"So, did he force himself on you? Were you violated on your wedding night? It's okay if you want to share; we're here for you," Nightshine said, his tone turning serious.

"I was scared, yes. But the night was nothing like I imagined. When I entered the bedroom, I was shaking like a leaf. He was standing by the window, gazing at the stars with the gentlest smile—it was almost surreal. I walked in, and the door clicked shut behind me. He gestured for me to come closer, and I felt like I was floating, terrified but also curious. When he touched my shoulder, I flinched and backed away. I had never felt fear like that before, and I couldn't understand why." Archana's expression softened as she recalled the moment.

"Did you say anything?" Nightshine asked, captivated.

"No, I was too caught up in my feelings. He just looked at me with this calm smile and said, 'I'm really tired; do you mind if we just sleep tonight?' It was so unexpected, and honestly, a huge relief!" Archana laughed, her eyes twinkling with the memory.

Fin

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NiK