Madam Sirr 2

Chapter 45

45. A Salute from the City

The road outside MPT was adorned with intricate tricolor rangoli patterns that glinted beautifully in the afternoon sun. The flower garlands rustled in the breeze, their intoxicating scent filling the street. The Indian flag stood high, rooted in the center waving in the bustling breeze, the colors shining in the sunlight. A red carpet flew down the middle up to the podium where a table was placed.

Media personnel occupied every corner, mingling in with the crowd, their hands readily poised with their equipment. The crowd stood seated on the chairs, some clutching small flags in their hands as they murmured and whispered in anticipation. Several feet away, a reported clutched the microphone, livestreaming the event to the thousands of the nation.

The police jeep stopped in front of the road, the tires creaking effortlessly. The crowd turned as one as the Commissioner stepped out, his crisp uniform shining brightly. He walked forward, his steps gracing the red carpet as he adjusted his cap, smiling at the crowd. Haseena and KS stepped out together, their feet landing with a thud. They stopped, enchanted by the attention for a brief second before they joined the Commissioner. Their eyes landed on the waving Indian flag reminding them of the duty they had sworn to uphold.

As they walked midst the growing flashes of the cameras, Haseena's eyes settled on her mother, her eyes glistening with tears. Next to her, Haseena saw Anubhav, his face calm as he offered a silent look of encouragement to her. KS's eyes immediately caught Roshni, her hands waving at her enthusiastically perched on Veyom's lap. She chuckled, her maternal affection breaking through her tough demeanor as she settled next to Haseena.

The Commissioner stood, taking his place at the podium. The murmurs of the crowd hushed into silence as he began to speak.

"Today is a historic day for India. The police department has successfully captured one of the biggest terrorists in India." He paused before continuing again. "I stand here today to appreciate the valiant efforts of two officers who embody the very ideals of loyalty and courage." He looked at KS and Haseena, raising his cap as he directly faced them. "Ms. Haseena Malik and Mrs. KS sacrificed their own lives for this mission without hesitation. Their unwavering loyalty and bravery rings true to the tricolors of the Indian flag. Ms. Malik and Mrs. KS, we the department and the whole of India are truly honored to have such capable and efficient officers with us."

Haseena and KS smiled, nodding curtly acknowledging the praises. Haseena's eyes briefly rested on KS as they shared a knowing eye-lock of understanding.

He stepped down as the audience erupted in applause, cheering and whistling in admiration. The Commissioner gestured for Haseena to approach the podium along with KS.

As Haseena glanced at KS, she felt the waves of camaraderie wash over, their friendship shinning deep. She knew that the mission was extremely dangerous and that they were lucky to return alive. Yet as she sat there, watching the crowd, she felt an optimistic tug in her heart, the way she was drawn to her duty. Haseena looked away blinking back the tears, the afternoon sun glistening in her eyes when she caught something; the silhouette of her abbu saluting her. She choked, her breath hitching as she stood up with KS and faced the audience.

"I am happy and proud to be standing here today in front of everyone completing my duty as a police officer." HM said looking around at the crowd, her iconic smile plastered on her face. She looked at KS and continued "The success of this mission rested on KS who acted courageously even in the face of deepest adversities. Her loyalty, her commitment and her love shone above all else. I couldn't have asked for a better partner and a better officer."

KS smiled, lowering her head, the attention unbearable for her. As Haseena was about to step down from the podium, the media breathed a storm of questions.