Two Brothers: Shadows of Deception

Chapter 19

A Resolute Embrace: Seeking Solace Amidst Darkness

(Vedant)

It has been one week since my conversation with Mr. Varma. During this time, I made it a point to make him uncomfortable in front of everyone, exposing his wrong decisions about the company's management to other board members. I had managed to befriend some of them, but I needed to gather more allies against Mr. Varma before the annual board meeting. Only then would my plan have a chance to succeed.

However, there was still one critical piece missing in my plan-her. I didn't want to involve her in this mess, but it seemed there was no other way. Figuring out how to place her where I needed her was the question. The plan had to be flawless so that she wouldn't suspect anything until the annual meeting.

Lost in deep thought, my phone rang, interrupting my contemplation. I glanced at the caller ID-it was Sid. I smiled and answered the call. "Hey, Sid. What's up? Is everything alright?" I asked.

"Yeah, all is well. I just wanted to talk to you," he replied, his voice lacking its usual energy.

"What is it, Sid? Are you okay?" I inquired, curiosity piqued.

"Yes, yes. I'm fine. I just wanted to know when you'll be back. I could use a vacation. It's been really hectic, and I feel exhausted," he explained.

Something felt off. This wasn't Sid. I could sense it. Something had happened to him, and I felt a protective instinct kick in.

"Sid, tell me. What happened?" I raised my voice, concerned.

"Nothing, brother. I'm okay. It's just that without you, work has been overwhelming. And I miss you. I just want to relax," he said, his words unconvincing.

"Are you sure?" I pressed, still unconvinced.

"Yes, I'm damn sure, bro," he replied.

Though not entirely convinced, I decided to let it be. Something was clearly bothering him, and I knew he needed time before he could share it with me. I understood that much.

"Alright, I'll accept that for now. But remember, if you ever want to talk about it, I'm here," I assured him.

"I knew that, Ved. You'll always be there when I need you," Sid said, his voice pleasant.

I chuckled. "Okay, I can't leave here for the next month. This is something very important to me. So please bear with it for a little while longer. I promise I'll be back soon," I explained.

"Yeah, okay. But keep in mind, you'll have a lot of explaining to do," Sid warned.

"I know, Sid, and I'll provide the explanation once it's all over. I promise," I reassured him. He hummed in response, and we ended the call.

Leaving the office, I found myself near my car, engrossed in checking a new email on my phone. Just as I was about to put it back in my pocket, I noticed a disoriented figure making her way towards the parking lot-Niharika. She was wearing black pants and a white shirt, her hair put up in a messy bun. Her bloodshot, puffy eyes indicated she had been crying. I don't know why, but her appearance unsettled me. What had happened to her? Why was she in tears? I had an urge to console her. She walked past me without acknowledging my presence, but I followed, grabbing her wrist and turning her towards me.

"Are you alright?" I asked, concern lacing my words.

She immediately pulled her hand away, looking at me but staying silent. "Just leave me alone. Please," she pleaded, her voice trembling. She got into her car and drove off.