Beneath The Storm (Completed)

Chapter 81-Beneath the Storm

The soft hum of computers and the gentle rhythm of keys filled the office floor, sunlight pouring through the tall glass windows, casting warm patterns across Inaara’s desk.

She sat cross-legged on her revolving chair, eyebrows furrowed in concentration as she adjusted the layout on her screen, her pen tucked between her fingers, lost in the blueprint of someone else's dream home.

A polite knock on her door broke her focus. The office peon stood there, slightly breathless.

“Madam, Nandita ma’am is calling everyone to the main hall. She said it’s important.”

Inaara blinked, pushed her chair back, and stood up, brushing imaginary dust off her kurta.

She joined the stream of curious colleagues making their way to the glass-walled hall, murmurs floating in the air like the buzz before a storm.

Something was up—something big.

Nandita Mehra, their poised and sharp-eyed branch head, stood at the front, radiating energy, her silk scarf fluttering slightly in the AC breeze. As everyone gathered, she clapped her hands once for attention.

“I have an important announcement,” she began, eyes gleaming, “and this one’s a proud moment for us all.”

The tension snapped like a rubber band.

“We’ve secured an international deal,” Nandita declared, her smile widening.

“A major project with XYZ Corporation—a luxury international centre to be built right here in Mumbai.”

The room erupted. Cheers, applause, wide eyes and open mouths.

Inaara blinked, stunned.

An international deal? In their branch?

“And that’s not all,” Nandita continued.

“This prestigious project will be led by none other than Isla Barn, the renowned interior designer from our Australia branch.”

Another wave of applause. Cameras clicked. Navya was practically jumping beside Inaara.

“But,” Nandita held up her hand, eyes scanning the crowd.

“Every star needs its sky—and for this, Inaara Sharma will be Isla’s project coordinator.”

Inaara felt the air get sucked out of her lungs.

She stood frozen.

“Me?” she mouthed, as Navya let out a loud cheer and began clapping furiously, dragging others into it.

Inaara felt heat rise to her cheeks as Nandita looked right at her and smiled.

“Yes, Inaara. I’ve seen your consistency, your style, your vision. You’re sharp and grounded. This is your chance. Form a team of your best people. I want your draft list by this week. Isla arrives in fifteen days.”

As Nandita exited the hall, the crowd buzzed like bees.

Navya threw her arms around Inaara.