In the lively city of Hyderabad, Vrindha is a passionate IAS officer determined to make a difference. She juggles her demanding job with the expectations of her traditional family. Krishna is a dedicated lawyer who fights for justice and hopes to c...
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As the sun began to set, Krishna decided to leave work early to pick Vrindha up. He could sense something was off from their earlier call, and his heart ached for her. He drove through the bustling streets and his mind is racing with thoughts of her. He messaged her about his arrival and got a thumbs up from her.
When he arrived at her office, he parked his car and waited for her by tapping his fingers against the steering wheel. The moment she stepped out, he felt a rush of relief, but he noticed her downcast expression.
Krishna : Hey, beautiful !
He greeted her by trying to inject some warmth into the moment.
Vrindha : Hey !
She replied quietly by sliding into the passenger seat. Krishna leaned towards her and kissed her forehead. She gave a small smile.
The drive home was filled with a comfortable silence, but Krishna couldn't shake off the feeling that something was weighing on her. He glanced over and is hoping she might share what was troubling her, but she remained lost in thoughts by staring out from the window.
As they navigated the familiar streets, the tension in the air grew thicker. Finally, as they approached the parking area of their community , Vrindha broke the silence.
Vrindha : Krishna.
She said and her voice is barely above a whisper.
He turned to her and his heart is pounding.
Krishna : Yeah ?
Vrindha : I've been thinking... I want to take maternity leave starting next month.
She paused by looking out the window again before continuing.
Vrindha : I initially planned to start from the seventh month, but I've decided to take it from the sixth.
Krishna's eyebrows shot up in surprise.
Krishna : Really ? That's sooner than I expected. Are you okay with that ?
She nodded with a mixture of determination and apprehension in her eyes.
Vrindha : I think it'll be better for me. I want to focus on preparing for the baby and not feel overwhelmed with work at the same time.
Krishna : I understand.
He said softly and his mind is racing.
Krishna : If that's what you feel is right, then I fully support you.
She smiled faintly by appreciating his unwavering support.
Vrindha : Thanks, Krishna. I just wanted to make sure you're okay with it.
Krishna : Of course. Your health and well-being are what matter most. Why I won't be okay ?
He assured her by reaching over to squeeze her hand.
As they parked and stepped out of the car, Vrindha felt a bit lighter. Though she hadn't fully shared the day's struggles, knowing that Krishna was there for her gave her the strength she needed. Together, they walked towards their home, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
..........
A week had passed since Vrindha's tense meeting with the Finance Minister, and each day felt like a battle against the mounting pressure of her responsibilities. The project updates were steady, but the weight of his words still lingered by casting a shadow over her confidence.
One evening, as she worked late on a report, the door to her office swung open with a bang. Startled, she looked up to find the Finance Minister storming in with his expression filled with anger.
Minister : Vrindha !
He shouted and his voice is echoing in the room.
Minister : What do you think you're doing by requesting a change in contractors ?
Taken aback, she straightened in her chair.
Vrindha : Sir , I.....
Minister : Don't try to defend yourself !
He interrupted by advancing toward her.
Minister : You think you can make decisions without consulting me ? You're overstepping your boundaries bitch !
She remained silent by trying to steady her breathing. She knew she had acted in the best interest of the project.
Minister : You're just a newcomer playing at politics.
He sneered and his tone is dripping with disdain.
Minister : Do you really think you can undermine my authority ? Even your senior officials will be at my foot.
Vrindha felt her resolve harden.
Vrindha : I'm just doing what's necessary for the project's success.
She said by finding her voice.
He leaned closer with his demeanour threatening. He scanned vrindha's body with and his perverted expression is making vrindha feel extremely uncomfortable.
Minister : You want to jeopardise your career before it even starts ? You should know your limitations.
She met his gaze with determination rising within her. Her hands rested on her desk, discreetly recording the encounter. She needed to protect herself.
Minister : You might think you're untouchable, but I can make things difficult for you.
He said and his voice is low.
Minister : You should remember your place.
With that, he turned to leave by casting one last glance over his shoulder.
Minister : I have eyes everywhere. Don't test me.
As the door slammed shut behind him, Vrindha exhaled and the adrenaline is still coursing through her. She sat frozen for a moment and the gravity of the encounter is settling in. The recording had captured everything.
Finally, she stopped the recording by feeling the weight of the situation but also a glimmer of resolve. She wouldn't be silenced or intimidated. The fight was far from over, and she was ready to stand her ground, no matter the cost. She just stayed quiet only to take a big step against him.
................
How's the chapter ?
Many woman are facing harassment at their workplace but they are unable to share that because of multiple reasons. Even People like Vrindha who have understanding husband , supportive parents and caring brother are being silent when they are undergoing that.
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