THE PRINCE WHO LOVED ME

14

Yamini's pulse quickened at his words. She had expected feedback on the concept, of course, but hearing him personally compliment her felt different. 'Professional.' Yet there was something in the way he looked at her, something that suggested more than just a business exchange.

Yamini : Thank you, Rudransh.

She said by managing to keep her tone steady. She gave him a polite smile, though part of her still felt that lingering warmth from their earlier interactions.

Yamini : I'm glad you liked it. It's been a lot of hard work, but I'm happy with how it's shaping up.

He nodded and his eyes are narrowing slightly, as if contemplating something.

Rudransh : You know ?

He continued and his voice is a little lower now,

Rudransh : I've been thinking about this whole industry, and honestly, I like the way you work. I've been in the food marketing scene for a while, but it's clear you've got a different approach. You're not just selling a product, you're selling a feeling. I respect that.

Yamini blinked, a bit taken aback. Was he just offering her a compliment ? Or was there something more to his words ?

Yamini : Thanks.

She said again and this time with a hint of a smile, trying to brush off the sudden heat that was creeping up her neck.

Yamini : I believe in the power of stories. A brand can do more than just sell ; it can connect with people emotionally. That's what we're all aiming for, right ?

Rudransh : Exactly !

He replied, and for a moment, his expression softened, like he truly believed in what she was saying. Then, his gaze shifted slightly, and he leaned in a little closer.

Rudransh : By the way, I've been meaning to ask, do you have any openings in your company ?

Yamini's eyebrows shot up in surprise.

Yamini : Wait, what ?

Yamini : Openings ?

She echoed, unsure if she'd heard him correctly.

Yamini : You mean... for jobs ?

Rudransh : Yeah !

Rudransh said and his voice is casual, though there was an undeniable intensity behind his words.

Rudransh : I've been thinking about a change. I'm not sure if this is the place for me anymore.

He paused for a second, as though weighing his words carefully.

Rudransh : I don't want to work in a place where everything feels too familiar anymore. You know, with Daksh being a close friend, I can't help but feel like there's some bias there , especially when it comes to how I'm treated compared to others. It's not that I don't respect him, but I've already talked to him about stepping away from 'Yummy Bites'.

Yamini stood there, absorbing his words, trying to keep the surprise off her face. She had never expected this. She had known Rudransh was a senior marketing manager at 'Yummy Bites' , but to hear him openly talk about leaving... It was a bold move. And it wasn't just about the job. The undertone of his words seemed more personal. But what struck her most was the way he was putting it so nonchalant, almost like it was a done deal.

Yamini : You've already had that conversation with Daksh ?

Rudransh : Yeah !

He replied with a flicker of something unreadable in his expression.

Rudransh : I just feel like it's time to move on. I need something new. Something different.

Yamini took a deep breath, trying to remain composed. Her mind was racing. 'Is he serious ?' He was practically offering himself up as a potential hire, and yet, she couldn't help but wonder if this was all part of some bigger plan or if he was genuinely looking for a change of environment.

Yamini : Well, if you're serious.

She said by crossing her arms and meeting his gaze,

Yamini : I'll let you know. I'm sure we could discuss opportunities. But, just to be clear.

She added and her voice is firm,

Yamini : are you saying you're leaving 'Yummy Bites' completely ? You're not planning to stay here with Daksh ? He is your best friend right ?

Rudransh gave her a small, almost amused smile, and shrugged lightly.

Rudransh : I don't want to work in an environment where I'm constantly pampered by my friend. Besides, I think I'm done with this chapter. Time for something new, and I think your company could be the place for that.

Yamini nodded, the wheels in her mind turning rapidly. She wasn't sure what kind of dynamics this would create, but she could see it. Rudransh could bring a lot to the table, especially with his experience. And if he really was looking for a change, he could be an asset to her team.

Yamini : Alright !

She said after a beat, offering him a cool, professional smile.

Yamini : I'll see what I can do. But I can't make any promises just yet. I'll need to check with the team.

He smiled back at her with a quiet understanding passing between them.

Rudransh : Fair enough. I'll wait to hear from you.

Yamini nodded, feeling the weight of the conversation settle into her chest. She turned toward the door, mentally preparing herself for the next steps.

Yamini : Thanks again, Rudransh. I'll be in touch.

He didn't say anything more, just gave her a short, knowing nod as she walked out. But as she left the room, her thoughts were scattered. Rudransh wasn't just the man who had challenged her with his feedback during the presentation, he was now the man who could potentially join her company.

And somewhere in the back of her mind, she couldn't shake the feeling that this unexpected conversation had just turned into something far more complicated than a simple job offer.

............

How's the chapter ? 

Rudransh wants to join Yamini's company. But why ?