Beneath The Storm (Completed)

Chapter-77: The Answer in Her Eyes

Some days had quietly slipped by, carrying with them moments of warmth, healing, and unspoken comfort.

On the terrace, under the open night sky, Inaara sat with her laptop open, her brows slightly furrowed, fingers unmoving over the keyboard.

The sea ahead shimmered under the moonlight, its soft breeze brushing strands of her hair over her face.

Atharv came and sat beside her.

His gaze lingered on her profile, observing the tension etched into her expression.

"What happened, baby?" he asked softly, the familiar teasing lilt in his voice.

Inaara glanced at him, her lips curving into a small smile the moment she heard him call her that-baby.

He always used the word to tease her, but tonight, it felt oddly comforting.

"Nothing," she said, though her eyes betrayed her anxiety.

"You know, Maa asked me to join the foundation. And after joining and learning... I realised it needs major reforms. The way it's functioning-it's outdated. We need to improve the work style."

She took a breath, then added, "Maa listened to me and asked me to prepare a presentation for the board. I've prepared it. But... I'm really tensed."

Atharv turned to her slightly, concern in his eyes. "But why?"

Inaara exhaled.

"Bua ji is also on the board. She doesn't like me. I know she's going to oppose every suggestion of mine. I'm scared she might influence the other members."

Atharv reached out and held her hand gently. His grip was firm yet reassuring.

"Baby, do you really think the suggestions you're putting forward will work for the foundation?"

Inaara looked at him and nodded.

"Then communicate perfectly to the members," he said with quiet strength.

"Sometimes it's not the proposal, but the communication that matters. Make them understand your point clearly. Show them your vision. If you communicate properly, no one will object to your proposal."

He paused, his voice steady and calm.

"And about Bua-decisions go on majority basis. If others are on your side, then she can't do anything."

Inaara nodded again, this time with a faint smile.

Some of the tension melted from her shoulders.

She leaned her head gently against his shoulder, finding her calm in his presence.

Atharv kissed her head softly, the moment filled with quiet assurance as both of them sat there, wrapped in silence, watching the sea under the night sky.

---

The conference room was bright with polished wooden panels and large windows letting in daylight, but the atmosphere inside was heavy with anticipation.