Falling in love with my CEO.

1- Destiny's Choice

Sushvi's point of view

"Wow, this is an extraordinary contract! I never imagined this would happen," our boss Vishal declared, his voice trembling as tears of joy brimmed in his eyes.

"Mr. Vineel, you and your team will depart for Canada tomorrow night. Make the necessary arrangements and have your project files ready," he instructed our team leader, Vineel, whose tone was firm of expectation.

Though our boss has a tendency towards theatrics, I must admit he drove us to work tirelessly on this project. At last, the deal was secured, and our team leader, Vineel—who holds our boss's deepest trust—was granted the coveted opportunity to fly to Canada and oversee the project."I'm sorry to say this, but your entire team won't be able to go. You'll need to select only three members to accompany you," he added, his gaze sweeping across us all. Mr. Vineel nodded solemnly in response.

Despite his position, Vineel has never lorded his authority over us. He is kind, and generous, and treats each team member with respect. I've always considered myself fortunate to work under his leadership. We are a team of six, all fresh-faced graduates. Everyone treats me kindly, save for Ms. Linda, who never misses a chance to undermine me.

I graduated nearly a year ago and am now 23 years old. "It's an honor, sir. Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility," Vineel replied. "I regret to say this, but I can only take three of you," he said, his gaze lingering on me.

"Sushvi, do you honestly think you'll be selected? Mr. Vineel is obviously going to choose me. I do feel sorry for you... Try not to be too disappointed, alright?" Ms. Linda taunted, her smile dripping with malice. I fought the urge to knock that smug grin off her face, biting back my retort, aware of her connection as the niece of our boss.

"The three individuals who will be joining me are Ms. Harshi, Mr. Mani, and Ms.," Vineel hesitated, his eyes darting between Linda and me.

I was certain he would choose me. He had always treated us fairly, and I had poured every ounce of effort into this project. Surely, I would be selected.

"I choose Ms. Linda," he finally announced. Her eyes gleamed with triumph, and she cast me a look of smug satisfaction. The world seemed to tilt beneath me. Tears threatened to spill, but I swallowed them down, forcing a smile and pretending I was perfectly fine with his decision. "Congratulations," I said, my voice steady as I extended my best wishes to the chosen team members, including Linda. "I pity you," she whispered, her words igniting a fresh wave of anger within me.

Mr. Vineel approached me, his expression one of quiet regret. "Congratulations, Vineel. I'm genuinely happy for you. Do well," I said, my smile strained. "I'm sorry, Sushvi," he murmured, his voice so low that Linda couldn't hear. She hovered nearby, her eyes narrowed as she tried to eavesdrop.

"Sorry for what? You think I don't deserve this? Perhaps you're right," I replied, my words sharp, unfiltered by the consideration of how they might wound him. As I turned to leave, he caught my hand. "You deserve far more than this, Sushvi. But you know why I had to make this choice," he began, but I interrupted him. "All the best, Mr. Vineel," I replied curtly, before walking away.When I returned home, a heavy sadness settled over me. I had truly believed he would choose me. But he hadn't, and sleep eluded me that night. "Are you alright, my dear?" my mother asked, approaching with a glass of warm milk.

"I'm fine, Mom," I replied, struggling to muster a genuine smile. "I know what happened, darling," she said in her gentle, reassuring tone. "But I'm not upset about it, Mom," I lied, pretending the situation hadn't touched me.

"Destiny has its own plan, my girl. Never be disheartened. I've always believed my daughter is strong enough to face any challenge," she said, gently squeezing my hand. "Mom, don't worry. I'm still the same girl you've always believed in," I assured her, managing a small, sincere smile.I drank the milk and eventually drifted off to sleep around 1 AM, my mind immersed in the pages of a vampire novel. Suddenly, my phone rang. Vineel's name appeared on the screen. Oh my goodness, is he really going to apologize again at this hour? I answered the call. "Hello, I'm fine! Please, no more apologies," I began, but he interrupted me. "Sushvi, stop. I'm not calling to apologize," he said, his tone serious.

What could it be, then? Why was he calling? "What is it, then?" I asked. "Ms. Linda had a minor accident. She broke her leg and won't be able to handle the project," he explained. What? She had an accident? "Oh my God, I can't visit her in the hospital right now. I'm sorry," I said, feeling a pang of pity for her.

"Oh, come on, Sushvi. That's not why I called. You'll be replacing her. All your formalities have been completed. You just need to pack your bags and be ready," he said before abruptly ending the call.

Is he serious? Do I even have a choice now? "Mom, wake up!" I called, shaking her gently. "What's wrong, sweetheart?" she asked, concern etched in her voice. I explained everything, and she nodded knowingly. "See, I told you destiny has its plan!" We shared a laugh."Can't you both sleep peacefully, please?" Dad grumbled, rolling his eyes as he exited the room.

Yes, destiny truly does have its plan. I was thrilled.

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