Under the Covers

Chapter 2

In the early years, Anamika wrote about everything her heart desired - the audacious, the ordinary, and the revolutionary. As Undercover flourished and success embraced her, her role as Editor-in-Chief became increasingly demanding. She poured her heart, soul, tact, and business acumen into hiring efficient staff, encouraging passionate newcomers, and assuming responsibility for every minute detail.

Gradually, her writing took a backseat. She would erupt in anger at the slightest mistake from her employees. And goodness, was she cold! Her dream had become a reality, and she guarded it possessively, like a mother guarding her child. Every tiny error would set her ablaze, as she demanded perfection in every aspect. Year after year, Undercover faced its own challenges and stood the test of time and politics.

Relationships took a backseat in Anamika's life. While pursuing her MBA and even after, she attempted to date a few men, but time had shattered something deep within her soul. Moreover, everyone she met seemed to have a hidden agenda - to exploit her wealth, power, or fame. Relationships held no priority for her.

Her passion burned for something greater. She yearned to challenge the patriarchal society, to change the way it functioned. The haunting memories of a traumatic incident consumed her day and night. She shouldn't have fled, for she was no coward. Though she couldn't alter what had happened, she was determined to prevent its recurrence.

Like any typical Indian father, hers persistently urged her to marry, and numerous wealthy and eligible suitors vied for her attention. As the sole heiress to the illustrious Bharathi Industries, there was no denying that she was a remarkable catch - beauty, brains, wealth, and fame. However, her blazing spirit remained undeterred. Her father's persuasion proved futile, and he eventually surrendered. The time was simply not right. Anamika had a greater purpose - to create and to dismantle.

Her sole focus now was to elevate the magazine to new heights. Who better than the acclaimed journalist Abhimanyu Rai to propel her venture forward? Anamika was exploring the international market, while Abhimanyu sought to make his mark in India. Their desires and aspirations were aligned, making them both complementary and indispensable to each other.

Anamika barely flickered an eye at the email in her inbox - Abhimanyu's application. She subjected him to rigorous interviews like any other candidate. However, she required an additional and exclusive round - a one-on-one meeting with herself. She summoned him not to ask questions but to strike a deal, a mutually beneficial exchange.

With her eyes fixed on her laptop screen, Anamika sat at her desk. Only when Abhimanyu approached and stood before her did she acknowledge his presence. Though she had informed her assistant to admit him, she swiftly became engrossed in her work. Unapologetic, she leaned forward and offered a firm handshake. Abhimanyu was immediately struck by her strong, independent demeanor. Without wasting time, she posed the crucial question - "What do you want from me?"

Abhimanyu had a direct response.

While launching Undercover internationally would have been relatively simple for Anamika Naidu, she didn't hesitate when the opportunity presented itself in the form of Abhimanyu. She needed international connections, and he needed a business foundation in India. The agreement was straightforward - they would share their knowledge and teach each other everything they knew.