When Disaster Meets Perfection

Ch. 41 Conflict of Heart and Duty

Oberoi Mansion

The Oberoi family gathered in the cozy living room, surrounded by warmth and laughter, as they sipped their tea and shared lively conversations. Prithviraj gazed affectionately at his loved ones, basking in the joy that filled the space. However, his eyes couldn't help but search for one notable absence - Shivay.

Shivay's tardiness on weekends was unheard of. It was a sacred family tradition, initiated by Kalyani to prioritize bonding and relaxation. Weekends were reserved for quality time together, free from the burdens of work.

Considering Shivay's unyielding dedication to his business, Kalyani had made a special arrangement with her grandson. He was allowed to work until afternoon, provided he devoted the remaining hours to family time.

As the clock ticked, Prithviraj's curiosity turned to concern. The family's lively chatter continued, but Prithviraj's mind wandered, wondering what could be delaying Shivay's return.

"Where could Shivay be?" Prithviraj thought to himself, a hint of unease creeping into his thoughts.

Prithviraj discreetly pulled out his phone, ensuring Kalyani didn't notice, and sent a surreptitious message to Mishra, Shivay's trusted assistant. His curiosity about Shivay's whereabouts had grown unbearable.

"Where is Shivay?" Prithviraj typed, his thumbs moving swiftly.

Mishra's prompt response only deepened Prithviraj's concern:

"Good evening, Sir. Shivay sir left the office early this morning, just half an hour after arriving."

Prithviraj's brow furrowed as his mind raced with questions. Where had Shivay gone? Was he in trouble? Who could have summoned him so urgently? Was it a business crisis or a personal matter?

A flurry of scenarios swirled in Prithviraj's thoughts: Shivay's dealings with rival business tycoons, potential threats to the Oberoi empire, or perhaps a clandestine meeting with someone.

Just as Prithviraj's anxiety peaked, Rudra's innocent remark heightened the tension.

"Dadi, you should scold Shivay Bhaiya when he gets back," Rudra said, looking at Kalyani with a mischievous grin. "He's so late! Why doesn't he come home on time?"

Kalyani's expression turned stern, playing along. "Of course, I'll scold him, beta. He knows better than to keep us waiting."

Prithviraj's concern deepened, his eyes locking onto Kalyani's, hoping she wouldn't sense his growing unease. Rudra's casual comment had unwittingly added fuel to the fire, intensifying Prithviraj's desire to uncover Shivay's whereabouts.

Prithviraj decided to discreetly inquire about Shivay's whereabouts from Om, his second grandson. He knew that Shivay and Om shared an unbreakable bond, fostered through years of brotherly love and trust.

"Om, do you have any idea where Shivay might be?" Prithviraj asked casually, trying to conceal his growing concern.

Om's eyes sparkled as he looked up from his phone, a hint of a smile on his face. "Yes, Dadaji, I know where Shivay is," he said, his voice filled with relief.

Prithviraj's tense expression softened, replaced by gratitude. "Thank God someone knows," he muttered, his eyes closing briefly in relief.

Before he could ask Om to reveal Shivay's location, Rudra's curiosity got the better of him. "Om, why didn't you tell us? We should have gone to get him!" Rudra exclaimed, his brow furrowed.

Om chuckled, holding up his hands. "No need to worry, guys. You don't have to go anywhere. Shivay will be here soon. He's already in the parking area."