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I was reading some files when the sharp ring of the telephone made me close them with a sigh.
Savi, the receptionist, greeted me on the other end.
"Ma'am, Disha Arya has arrived... unexpectedly. Should I let her in?"
"Hmm. Ask the peon to bring some coffee to my office," I said, wondering what brought her here without any notice.
Moments later, Disha entered - graceful, stylish, as always. But this time, something caught my eye: a V-shaped tattoo on her shoulder. Strange, I hadn't noticed it before. Perhaps she hadn't worn anything off-shoulder last time.
I found myself staring at it, trying to place why it looked... familiar.
She snapped her fingers playfully. "Am I looking ugly, or what?"
"A... N-no. You look good. I was just... lost in thought." I pulled a weak smile.
"About what?" she asked, sipping water casually.
"About your sudden visit. Everything alright?"
She traced the rim of her glass, avoiding my gaze. "I don't know how to say this..."
"Just say it."
She exhaled slowly. "I heard you've been nominated for Asia's Best CEO Award. I wanted to ask... can I come with you? I want to make some international business contacts. This could really help me..." Her eyes were hopeful, almost pleading.
I thought for a moment. "Sure. You can come." I smiled.
She grabbed my hand in excitement. "Thank you, Vidya! I'm nervous but so happy!"
"Relax. Even I've never attended such events. My team practically forced me this time." I pulled my hand back, amused.
She laughed. "Glad you're going. Let's celebrate - dinner tonight? Is your husband free?"
"Umm... sorry, we-"
The phone rang again, cutting me off. I picked it up.
"Ma'am, please come to the conference room. Your father-in-law is waiting," Savi said, her voice tense.
"Fine."
I hurriedly bid Disha goodbye. Each step towards the conference room felt heavier. What now? Another deal? Another threat?
As I entered, his broad back faced me. He turned the moment I closed the door behind me. His face calm, but his body language screamed silent aggression.
"Good morning, Uncle. How can I help you?" I asked, polite but guarded.
He pulled out a rolled paper from his coat and tossed it onto the table. I unrolled it slowly - contract papers. Exactly what I expected.
