Ch 48. The Plan Unfolds

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Oberoi Headquarters

Seated in his spacious cabin, Shivay was engrossed in reviewing a critical file, his eyes scanning the pages with intense focus. The soft knock on the door broke his concentration.

"Mishra, come in," Shivay called out, his deep voice authoritative.

Mishra entered, carrying a stack of files and a schedule. "Good morning, sir. I've brought your daily schedule and some updates on our ongoing projects."

Shivay gestured for Mishra to proceed, his eyes returning to the file.

Mishra began his briefing, methodically outlining the progress of various projects under their umbrella. Shivay listened attentively, nodding occasionally.

"...The marketing team is finalizing the campaign for our new product launch," Mishra continued. "The IT department is resolving the server issue, and—"

Mishra paused, clearing his throat.

"Oh, and one more thing, sir. The fashion team has launched their boutique today. A few staff members are at the shop, while the rest are working from the office."

Shivay's curiosity was piqued. He set the file aside, his full attention now on Mishra.

Shivay's eyes narrowed, his voice firm. "Who has gone to the new boutique?"

Mishra's expression changed from expectant to surprised. He had anticipated questions about other projects, not the boutique.

"Sir, Annika and Sneha are handling the shop's launch," Mishra replied.

Shivay nodded thoughtfully. "Okay, bring a bouquet. I'll personally deliver it to congratulate them on their opening."

Mishra's eyes widened, stunned by Shivay's unusual request. Typically, Shivay sent bouquets to acknowledge project milestones, but he never personally delivered them.

Gulping, Mishra replied, "Sir, we've already sent a bouquet."

Shivay's voice rose, his tone inquiring. "What? You already sent one? How?"

Mishra explained, his words measured. "Sir, you established a protocol team to handle gestures like these. They automatically send bouquets when projects achieve significant milestones. They must have sent one to Annika's team."

Shivay's expression shifted from surprise to contemplation.

"Alright, you may go now," Shivay dismissed Mishra, his tone returning to its usual composed pattern.

Mishra nodded respectfully and exited the cabin, leaving Shivay to his thoughts.

As the door closed, Shivay's gaze drifted toward the window, lost in contemplation.

"Why did I offer to deliver the bouquet personally?" he wondered.

A faint smile crossed his lips as he acknowledged the truth.

It wasn't just about congratulating Annika on her team's achievement; he wanted to meet her.

He shook his head, clearing the distraction.

"No, focus on the task at hand," he reminded himself.

With renewed determination, Shivay refocused on the files and reports awaiting his attention.

His eyes scanned the pages, but his mind lingered on Annika.

Few hours later

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