𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒐𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒆

PART-12

BONUS!!!! TODAY'S SPECIAL DAY! ENJOY!!

But... " Aanand's voice turned skeptical as he stared at Rudraksh with clasped hands behind his back. His lips pursed and jaw clenched, biting back unspoken words.

"Since you have made the mistake, you have got to face the consequences."

Rudraksh's face faltered, confusion etched on his features. His eyes, once bright with confidence were now clouded with uncertainty. He looked at his father with narrowed eyes, his heart beating with speed of light anticipating the words that would follow.

"You are demoted to the junior manager post, effective immediately." Aanand announced in his authoretive voice devoid of any emotions.

Rudraksh's face scrunched in bewilderment. "What?" The words caught in his throat, shock rendering him momentarily mute. "That's my company. You have no right to demote or promote anyone." His words spilled out in a desperate rebellion.

Aanand's expression did not falter, and he continued in a calm tone, "I am not asking for your opinion. The decision has been made. You have had ample opportunities to turn things around, but you failed. The board has lost confidence in your ability to lead."

Rudraksh's face fell, his eyes flashing with a mix of anger, hurt, and betrayal. He took a step back, his mind reeling like a punch-drunk boxer. "This is stupid with no sense! You can't just demote me like this! That's my company-"

"-funded with my money," Aanand cut him off in a calmer tone. "Don't forget, I hold the Power of Attorney. You will do as you are told, Rudraksh. You will accept the demotion and the new role that comes with it. Refuse, and you are out of the company. Completely."

The demotion was a blow, a public stripping of Rudraksh's power and status, a humiliation that seared his soul like a branding iron.

"I've always made you proud." Rudraksh tried to sound stern, but the desperation in his voice reflected the hurt building by the sudden announcement. "I always been among toppers, from school to engineering to my MBA." His hands clenched into fists as he spoke, his eyes pleading for understanding. "My achievements have always honored your family, never brought shame!" A lump formed in his throat but he forced the words out. "I have always listened to you, every time, everywhere... whether you were with me... or not."

Aanand looked straight into his eyes and spoke in an authoretive tone. "Mistakes have consequences, Rudraksh." His tone turned biting. "And stop acting like a child."

Rudraksh's eyes dropped, his gaze falling to the floor as he struggled to process the sting of Aanand's words. He felt a familiar knot in his stomach, a mix of shame and anger that he couldn't quite articulate. His voice was barely audible as he whispered, "What do you want?"

Aanand paused to take a good look at his rebellious son and then continue, "Companies do not run the way you are running-with neglect and carelessness. They need discipline and hard work."

Rudraksh felt a stinging sensation, as if his father's words had slapped him. He took a deep breath, trying to compose himself, but his voice trembled with emotion. "You have never been proud of me, have you?" he whisperly asked. "No matter what I do, it is never enough."

Aanand's expression remained firm. "Your recent decisions have put the company at risk. This demotion is not just a punishment, but a chance to re-evaluate your priorities."

Rudraksh's eyes flashed with defiance as he stood his ground, his gaze locked onto his father's. "I have earned this place with my hard work and dedication. I am the one who built it from the scratch, and I will not let anyone destroy this."