When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch-25 A Surprising Twist

Oberoi Headquarters

Mishra strolled towards the office, a spring in his step and a warm smile on his face. His morning ritual, unchanged for the past two months, brought him joy. He savored the aroma of his freshly brewed coffee, feeling grateful for the relaxed routine he had adopted.

Initially, Mishra was taken aback when Shivay announced his decision to relocate to London for an indefinite period. However, his surprise quickly turned to delight as Shivay entrusted him with overseeing the entire team in his absence.

The newfound autonomy thrilled Mishra. No longer would he be bound to Shivay's demanding schedule, which had dictated his life for so long. Gone were the early 9 am arrivals and late 8 or 9 pm departures.

With Shivay abroad, Mishra had embraced a more conventional workday, strolling into the office between 10 am and 5 pm, just like the rest of the employees. The change of pace revitalized him, allowing him to recharge and tackle his responsibilities with renewed enthusiasm.

As he entered the office, Mishra exchanged pleasantries with colleagues, feeling more approachable and connected to the team. His days were now filled with purpose, minus the pressure of constantly catering to Shivay's exacting expectations.

Mishra walked into his office, anticipating a routine morning. However, his expectation was shattered as he opened the door to find an uninvited guest sitting in his chair, deeply engrossed in a novel.

Mishra's astonishment was palpable, and his voice took on a firm tone, demanding to know the intruder's identity and purpose.

Unbeknownst to Mishra, the mysterious individual was none other than Shivay, who had arrived at the office early as usual, expecting a warm welcome from his loyal secretary.

Shivay, however, was surprised to find Mishra absent. Realizing he hadn't informed Mishra of his return from London, Shivay considered calling him but decided against it, assuming Mishra would arrive shortly.

Instead, Shivay dove into a pressing file, focusing on the task at hand. Time flew as he worked diligently, and before he knew it, an hour had passed.

As the clock approached 10 am, Shivay wondered if Mishra was in his cabin, unaware of his return. He decided to investigate, strolling towards Mishra's office.

Upon arrival, Shivay found Mishra's desk empty, confirming his secretary's tardiness. His gaze then fell upon a novel lying on Mishra's desk, piquing his curiosity.

Shivay sat in Mishra's chair, picking up the book, and became engrossed in its pages. Lost in the story, he waited for Mishra's arrival, unaware of the surprise that awaited him.

Only five minutes passed before Mishra burst into the room, shocked to find his chair occupied. The tables had turned, and Shivay was now the observer, witnessing Mishra's uncharacteristic outburst.

"What the hell is going on here?" Mishra demanded. "Who are you? How did you get into my office without permission? And what gives you the right to read my novel?"

Shivay's eyes remained fixed on the book, a subtle smile spreading across his face as he waited for Mishra's realization.

Mishra indignation grew with each passing moment. "Do you have any idea who I am? I'm the person in charge here. You can't just barge in without clearance."

Mishra's displeasure deepened as he criticized the individual's unprofessional behavior. "What's wrong with you? Hiding behind a book? Put it down and leave my office immediately."

Shivay slowly lowered the novel, revealing a face that made Mishra's heart skip a beat.

Mishra's expression transformed from outrage to shock, his eyes wide with incredulity. He felt as though he'd been punched in the gut.

"Sh-Shivay sir!" Mishra stuttered, struggling to regain composure. "I-I didn't expect you back so soon."

Shivay's piercing gaze met Mishra's, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Clearly," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Mishra's face burned with embarrassment as he realized his grave mistake. He had unknowingly reprimanded his superior, and the usually unflappable Shivay seemed to be savoring the moment.

The air was thick with tension, Mishra's regret hanging precariously in the balance. He awaited Shivay's response, bracing himself for the consequences of his impulsive outburst.

Shivay rose from the chair, his expression a mixture of amusement and disappointment. "It seems you've been enjoying the novel more than your work," he remarked, his tone laced with sarcasm.

Mishra's face flushed as Shivay continued, "I think I've given you too much leeway. As the acting boss, you should be setting an example, not strolling in late."

Mishra's eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape from the uncomfortable situation. "Sir, it's not like that," he protested, his voice laced with desperation.

Shivay's raised hand silenced him. "We don't have time for explanations. Gather your belongings and meet me in my cabin in five minutes."

With that, Shivay turned and exited the room, leaving Mishra feeling flustered and anxious.

Mishra cursed his fate, wondering how his peaceful morning had turned into a disaster. He hastily gathered his belongings, his mind racing with thoughts of what Shivay might say next.

As he organized his desk, Mishra replayed the encounter in his head, cringing at his own mistakes. He had grown complacent in Shivay's absence, and now he faced the consequences.

With a deep breath, Mishra steeled himself for the impending conversation. He made his way to Shivay's cabin, his feet heavy with apprehension.

Upon entering Shivay's office, Mishra found him seated behind his desk, his expression unreadable. The air was thick with tension, and Mishra sensed a stern lecture looming on the horizon.

"Sir," Mishra began, attempting to preempt Shivay's words.

Shivay's piercing gaze locked onto Mishra's, signaling the start of a critical conversation. "Mishra, since you've been handling meetings and interviews in my absence, I need an update on the two proposals from the upcoming fashion company. Which one did you select, and why wasn't I informed about their expansion plans?"

Mishra explained, "Sir, your grandfather instructed me to keep everything confidential until your return. Even if the team began working on it, I wasn't authorized to update you."

Shivay chuckled, "Sometimes Dadaji's secrecy is overwhelming. Now, tell me, which proposal do you recommend? I haven't reviewed them, and I value your insight, given your involvement in the interviews."

Mishra's face lit up, recognizing the significance of his input. "Sir, personally, I prefer Proposal A. Its concept has a proven track record, and it's slightly differentiated from the others. Proposal B, although unique, seems lacking. It was selected due to its distinctiveness and Mr. Ankur's impression of the presenter. However, I've heard rumors about her unprofessionalism and difficulties working with female colleagues, leading to her termination from her previous company."

Shivay nodded thoughtfully, then responded, "Good job, Mishra."

Mishra's smile widened, expecting Shivay to concur with his recommendation. However, Shivay's next words stunned him.

"I've decided we'll proceed with Proposal B. You'll supervise the project, not me. Complete the necessary paperwork."

Mishra's confusion and shock were palpable. He struggled to comprehend why Shivay chose the riskier proposal, potentially setting himself up for loss, and ultimately benefiting Ankur in the long run.

With a mix of trepidation and resignation, Mishra exited Shivay's cabin to tackle the paperwork, grappling with the challenges ahead.

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