Tripura arrived at the Malhotra Group headquarters, dressed in an elegant maroon blazer and matching trousers paired with a sleek cream top. Her hair was neatly tied into a low ponytail, accentuating her sharp features. As she stepped into the meeting room, the air was already charged with the anticipation of finalizing the much - awaited project.
Inside, Ram was already seated alongside Vikram, discussing last - minute details.
Palash was standing near the projector, casually flipping through the slides, while Rajveer sipped his coffee, leaning against the table, throwing in the occasional sarcastic remark.
“Ah, the star of the evening has arrived,” Palash announced dramatically, earning a side - eye from Tripura.
“Save the theatrics, Palash. Let’s get this meeting done so we can celebrate later,” Tripura retorted, sliding into her chair opposite Ram.
---
As the presentation commenced, the room transitioned into a space of serious deliberation. Palash walked everyone through the detailed timeline, key deliverables, and the budget breakdown.
Tripura chimed in occasionally, offering clarifications or countering Rajveer’s pointed questions. Ram, on the other hand, observed her intently — admiring her poise and her ability to command attention without being overbearing.
Rajveer nodded in approval. “Tripura, the timeline you’ve proposed looks solid, but I’d like to know if there’s room for flexibility in the execution stages, especially considering unforeseen delays.”
Tripura leaned forward, her tone professional yet assertive. “Of course, Mr. Malhotra. We’ve accounted for contingencies and built buffers into the timeline. However, I’d suggest we stick to the proposed milestones to maintain efficiency. If adjustments are needed, we’ll address them on a case - by - case basis.”
Rajveer said proudly, “Efficient and adaptable. You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you, Tripura?”
Tripura acknowledged his comment with a smile, but Palash quipped, “She’s full of brilliance, papa. We all are just trying to keep up.”
The room erupted into light laughter, breaking the tension momentarily.
---
As the discussion progressed, Ram and Tripura found themselves aligning on several points.
At one moment, when Rajveer proposed an alternative design strategy that seemed impractical, both Tripura and Ram spoke up in unison, “That won’t work.”
They exchanged a surprised glance before Tripura gestured for Ram to continue.
Ram’s voice was firm but calm. “The proposed strategy overlooks the operational constraints we’ve already identified. We’d risk unnecessary delays if we tried to implement it.”
Tripura nodded in agreement, adding, “And not to mention the added cost implications. The current plan is not just efficient but also financially sustainable in the long run.”
Their seamless teamwork didn’t go unnoticed by Vikram, who leaned back in his chair with a faint smile.
---
As the meeting neared its conclusion, Rajveer stood up. “I must say, this has been one of the most thorough and well - coordinated presentations I’ve seen in a while. Tripura, Ram, Vikram — you’ll have outdone yourselves. I’m confident we’re in good hands.”
YOU ARE READING
Layers of Us
General FictionIn a world where tradition dictates the heart, Tripura Nagrajan finds herself trapped in an arranged marriage she never wanted. A compassionate soul with a passion for animals and a thriving career as a psychologist, actress, and business tycoon, T...
