Under the Covers

Chapter 3

Abhimanyu's captivating aura mesmerized everyone on the bustling editorial floor of Bharathi Publications Office. But for Anamika, it hardly made a difference. She remained confined to her cabin, immersed in her own world. Occasionally, Abhimanyu caught glimpses of her, engrossed in reading. One day, he mustered the courage to walk into her room and propose writing the editorial for the magazine on her behalf. Anamika maintained a prolonged silence before clearing her throat and, instead of uttering a word, simply nodded in approval.

The piece penned by Abhimanyu Rai swiftly went viral, showcasing his innate and impeccable flair for writing. As Anamika read his work, she could almost hear his heavily accented voice narrating the words in her mind. He had delicately delved into the topic of "how the US perceives India," captivating readers with his subtle yet powerful prose.

Among the multitude of sentences, one stood out, prompting Anamika to ponder its meaning for a while longer. Abhimanyu had written that joy could be found nowhere else but at home. He expressed his desire to walk the streets and inhale the essence of his motherland, dedicating every word to the people of this great, illustrious, and diverse nation. If given a choice, he wished to be born as an Indian again, cherishing each raindrop and tear as his own wealth and treasure. Admittedly, for the first time, Anamika felt genuinely impressed.

The following day, armed with a camera, a voice recorder, a pen, and a notepad, Abhimanyu ventured out. He shed his crisp three-piece suit and donned the attire of a local, immersing himself in the surroundings. Returning in the evening drenched in sweat and exhausted, he would spend an hour birthing a beautifully crafted story, like pearls gracefully strung together to form an exquisite necklace.

Accompanied by photos capturing the smiles and sorrows of individuals, he breathed life into his stories, fusing faces and characters with the narratives. The phones at Magnum Heights buzzed incessantly as readers called to praise his tales, sharing how deeply his stories had touched their hearts and lives. For the first time in years, Anamika found herself smiling.

Meanwhile, Abhimanyu found himself captivated by the enigmatic beauty that was Anamika. He had never encountered such intensity in a woman before. She remained the most perplexing and intricate mystery, defying his fifteen years of experience as an investigative journalist. Attempting to engage her in small talk, he received nothing more than a smile or one-word answers in return. She remained cold, distant, and always focused on business. Abhimanyu reveled in the challenge, relishing every moment.

One day, he ventured into the morgue at Bharathi Publications Office, perusing the older issues of the magazine. To his absolute surprise, he discovered numerous articles authored by Anamika. Embedded within each piece was a beautiful soul, bearing gut-wrenching pain, excruciating agony, and unfathomable hope. He inquired about her from anyone who would listen, but nobody knew more than he did. He seized every opportunity to be around her, observing her closely.

An invitation arrived from Anamika's father, inviting Abhimanyu to his farmhouse for drinks one weekend. The occasion was meant to celebrate Abhimanyu's integration into the family business. Pretending to show interest in purchasing shares or investing in their enterprises, Abhimanyu engaged in conversation with Mr. Harishchandra Naidu. They had met the previous year at a business conference in New York, and it was through that encounter that Abhimanyu discovered the invisible force behind his ideal magazine - Anamika.

As they caught up, Mr. Naidu couldn't help but praise his remarkable daughter. In his ecstatic state, he shared anecdotes of her kindness, determination, and unwavering stubbornness. He spoke of her journalism degree, MBA in London, and her disdain for luxury. He proudly acknowledged her unbeatable success as India's youngest and most accomplished businesswoman. Abhimanyu's curiosity grew with every passing moment, not about what Anamika had achieved, but about who she truly was.

At the third ring, as was her tradition, Anamika picked up the phone. The call originated from a London-based international awards organization. They intended to honor Undercover with the esteemed title of "Reflection of India," and the grand ceremony was set to take place in London, where distinguished figures from the media and business worlds would converge. Sensing an opportunity to make an impression and establish a firm foothold in the international market, Anamika decided to invite Abhimanyu along. With his knowledge of influential individuals and international connections, he was the perfect companion for such an occasion.

Abhimanyu eagerly packed his bags for the week-long business trip. Secretly, he stashed a journal he had collected from Anamika's father's house. He eagerly anticipated the trip, for he believed he finally had Anamika right where he wanted her. This was the opportunity he had been waiting for, the chance to seek revenge.