The Marriage Proposal

10

Advay’s pov

I dropped Shivani at hospital and went to my office. I was sitting in my office with some documents. I was checking them. I heard a knock on the door.

“Come in.” I said without looking up from the papers.

The door opened and Vihaan entered the room.

“Sir, there’s someone here to see you. He said it’s important.” I raised an eyebrow, setting the papers down.

“Send him in.”

He nodded and left the room. Few minutes later a tall, muscular man in the dark suit entered the room. The man sat in front of me. I looked at him for a moment.

“Who are you and what do you want?” I asked him. He smirked and leaned back in his chair.

“I’m Akshay Ranawat and I have heard a lot about you, Mr. Malhotra. I heard that you are the king of this city's underground also the best businessman.” I chuckled.

“Is that right? And what business do you have with me?” His smirks widened.

“I have a proposition for you. It could benefit us both, if you're smart enough to see it.” I leaned back in my chair, listening to him.

The man leaned forward, resting his arms on the desk.

“I represent a group that's looking to expand their operations in this city. We've heard you're the one who controls the most territory, and we want to work with you.”

“And what would this “Partnership” involve exactly?” He grined.

“It's simple. We'll give you a cut of our profits, and in return, we get free reign to operate in your territory. Of cource, there would be some...protection provided as well.”

“Protection, huh? What makes you think I need your protection? I have got my own guys watching my back.” He shrugged.

“Oh, I'm sure your guys are tough, but they’re no match for us. We’re the real deal, the best business. And just think of how much time and resources you’d save if you didn’t have to constantly worry about protecting your territory. That’s what we are offering you, Mr. Malhotra. Peace of mind, and a hefty paycheck to go with it.

“And what’s the catch? There’s always a catch, with deals like this.” He leaned back to his chair again.

“There ‘s no catch,  per se. We just expect you to hold up your end of the bargain. We’re looking for a long-term partnership here, Mr. Malhotra. One that’s mutually beneficial.” I narrowed my eyebrows, not entirely convinced.

“How do I know I can trust you? How do I know you won’t double-cross me, or try to muscle in on my territory once you’ve got a foothold here?” He chuckles, clearly unperturbed by my skepticism.

“You’re a smart man, Mr. Malhotra. You know how this business works. Trust is earned, not given. But we’re not in the habit of crossing our partners. We want this partnership to work just as much as you do. And if we were planning on double-crossing you, do you really think we’d be sitting here right now, offering you such a generous deal?”

“Alright, let’s say I’m interested in this “partnership". How do I know you’re not just selling me a load of bull? Where’s the proof that you’re as good as you say you are?” He smiles.

“Fair enough, Mr. Malhotra. I’ve got some information that I think will convince you.” He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out an envelop. He slides it across the desk towards me.