Manan : U complete me ✔️

EGO Leads to Wrong Decisions

(Nandini) Two days before our company's annual party, I reported to dad. "Papa, I need to speak with you."

(VM) "I have told you a number of times not to talk about personal things in office."

(Nandini) "It is business."

(VM) "So soon?" He looked stunned.

(Nandini) "Yes. Lets hold a meeting tomorrow and discuss the rest of the terms."

(VM) "I trust you are confident." He said doubtfully. Its just like him to have this reservation. Who wouldn't if the job is over so soon?

(Nandini) "Never been any less."

(VM) "Very well. I will set for meeting tomorrow. Get ready for it. Go now."

(Nandini) "Thanks, Papa." He just nodded and looked disappointed. It was obvious that he wanted me to stay with the company. But I didn't want to and couldn't now, if I have to see Manik.

(VM) "Nandini, are you alright?" as I opened the door to go out.

(Nandini) "I am fine. Why do you ask?"

(VM) "You don't look good. Is something going on your mind?"

(Nandini) "Nothing big." He didn't seem convinced but he didn't dig further.

(VM) "Sigh. Go on. Call Rishabh in."

Christmas eve(the Annual Party of the Murthys are held nearing Christmas), I was called to the Murthy's head quarters. What is it that they want suddenly? Do they want to change something? I was shown into a conference room where Nandini and Rishabh Murthy were sitting with their Dad Venkatesh Murthy (VM) at the centre.

(Manik) "I am sorry I am late. I was held up." The air was tense and heavy. Is it something serious?

(VM) "Thank you for coming here. I do hope Nandini has continuously been in touch with you about the research work?" She has done an exceptional job. I cannot complain about that.

(Manik) "Yes. Also, she had the agreements for patents purchased and their usage along with the application of patents for the research product. Excellent executive. An asset to the organisation."

(VM) -"Then, I am sure you would have noticed that only approval for patent and from the medical institute is pending. Henceforth, the work from here on is going to be taken over by Rishabh here."

(Manik shocked) "Why? Isn't she doing an outstanding job?" Why this sudden change in personnel?

(VM) "I never discussed this with you because it was inside our family and company nor do I have the obligation to discuss about the reason now, but you see, I promised Nandini that she can privately practice as a doctor if she completes this project for me. Like you said, she is an exceptional asset to us. She had the job that would have taken likely more than a year completed in around six months. As a part of our deal to using her in this venture, she has fulfilled her part. Now, it is my turn to fulfill my part of the agreement." I see. It was a pact with her dad. I cannot tell anything. But not being able to see her, I suddenly felt hollow and like something sucking my energy off.

(Manik) "I see. I have no objection to this." I got up. What am I going to do? What should I do? It is clear that she is not interested in prolonging our engagement. Do I want it? A million things passed through my mind not connecting to one.

(VM) "Also, my youngest daughter's marriage is two weeks from now."

(Manik) "I am aware of it. We will be attending as guests."