KAYAMATH

Chapter 24

The next couple of days seemed to blur into one long stretch of endless meetings, late-night brainstorming sessions, and intense strategizing. It was as if time had lost all meaning, swallowed up by the sheer enormity of the work I had to handle. Neev had suddenly left for a business trip, one I strongly suspected was due to the company’s precarious financial state. His departure was abrupt—so rushed that he hadn’t even taken a moment to inform me properly.

I wasn’t one to cling to my boyfriend. I valued independence, both his and mine. I didn’t demand constant attention or time, understanding he had battles of his own that he chose not to share with me. I respected his space. Yet, despite my pragmatic outlook, it stung that I hadn’t even had the chance to say goodbye. But I consoled myself with the thought that once things stabilized, we’d finally have uninterrupted time together. Until then, I threw myself into my work with even greater diligence, determined to make things easier for both of us.

Thankfully, I had Kanika, as my rock during this chaotic phase. So, after Neev’s sudden departure, I decided to stay at her place. Her constant chatter and warm presence filled the void of solitude that might otherwise have consumed me.
However, amidst this flurry of activity, one thing had become glaringly evident—Niharika Aunty’s hostility toward me had intensified. She’d never liked me, that much was clear. In her eyes, I was the embodiment of everything “unrefined” and “unclassy.” According to her, my simple, modest dressing style was unacceptable, and no amount of effort seemed to change her opinion of me. Over time, I had tried to adapt, making changes to my wardrobe and demeanor, but it was never enough for her.

She would make her disdain known through subtle but cutting remarks, as though she enjoyed reminding me that I would never truly belong in her world. Still, I endured it silently, unwilling to let her negativity affect my mood.
Then came a day that brought a glimmer of hope amidst all the tension. While at the office, we received the monumental news that our company was merging with a major conglomerate. After months of uncertainty and struggle, this announcement felt like a lifeline for everyone involved.

I couldn’t contain my excitement—finally, Neev’s tireless efforts were bearing fruit. His hard work and dedication were paying off, and this merger promised a fresh start for the company. To celebrate this milestone, the management decided to organize a grand party.

The decision to host such an elaborate event was unusual, as the company rarely held parties outside of the annual anniversary celebration. Kanika, ever the gossip enthusiast, explained that this was an exceptional case. With the company teetering on the edge of collapse, this merger was its salvation. The celebration was as much a gesture of gratitude to the new partner as it was a morale boost for everyone.

The biggest surprise? All employees, not just senior management, were invited to attend the party. It was an unprecedented move, one that caused a buzz of excitement throughout the office. Everyone was thrilled at the opportunity to witness such a significant event, and Kanika, being Kanika, was the most excited of all.

Kanika insisted that we go shopping for the occasion, dragging me along despite my protests. We scoured countless stores, and while I was content with a simple dress, Kanika had other ideas.

She insisted on buying me a stunning sleeveless burgundy dress with thin spaghetti straps and a fitted bodice that flared slightly into a graceful midi-length skirt. It was elegant, timeless, and far beyond anything I would have picked for myself. Despite my protests about the expense, she brushed them aside, declaring that I deserved to look my absolute best.

The dress fit like a dream, accentuating my figure and complementing my fair complexion perfectly. For someone who rarely ventured into the world of Western fashion, it was a revelation. Standing before the mirror, I barely recognized myself.