Encounter - A RaYa Journey

Chapter - 16

PR team  went over board for the new year plan. As a renown hotel, they had to do something big, bigger than last time and they had enough budget to make it so. 

After much discussion Ram suggested to go for a masquerade ball. He was sure it would intrigue people as this kind of party was uncommon in India.  Some of his team members protested as it meant they had to work more hours for the party but maximum voted for the idea. So, after much discussion they started on the proposal. 

It was already 9.30 by the time Ram started packing his bags. He was working over time today as he was stressed about the whole plan. They only had a week to make it happen and he had to make sure everything fell in place. 

"Ram. I am glad you are still here... Working late?" He heard the Director's voice from behind. 

Ram turned to look at him and nodded "Yes. Working for the new year event" 

"The new year huh!" the Director smirked "Do you think you'll still be here for the event?" he asked. "You will be transferred to our Pune hotel soon" he informed him. Ram was confused, not once was he told that he would be transferred during his time in this hotel.  And moreover, transfers did not work in hotel business. 

"What's the reason for this sudden relocation?"

"Isn't it obvious. You and the CEO created this mess. So, why ask me the reason?" 

"It has nothing to do with the company. It's a personal matter" Ram argued. 

"You thinking that it's a separate matter is the reason. Why aren't the two connected? An ongoing scandal isn't good for the CEO. Her position as CEO might be at risk and you will be the one to blame." he starred at Ram who looked lost. 

The Director started again "Who do you think decided on the relocation? Me? Do you think I have the power to do so? No. It is the Khaneja's. They still have shares of the hotel and if Priya made any wrong move she will lose everything. So you better get ready for the transfer or else you'll put her in the pickle. And Ram, Miss Sharma is going to Bangalore for a meeting in 2 days and the transfer will take place then. You cannot tell anything to her. You can comply or resign from the company. The choice is yours" saying this he left the room, fuming in anger. 

Ram stood still, his thoughts over powering him. It was like a blow to his dreams- his dreams of doing something big as a part of IVY, his dreams of supporting his family and being there for Priya. If he was transferred he could not be with her, he could not be with his family; and as per the Director he was the reason Priya's position was in the line.

He couldn't do that to her. 

**********

 Priya was already in the lift when the lift door opened to his floor. They smiled at each other and he positioned himself next to her. When he failed to meet her eyes, she moved closer to him and slowly slipped her fingers in his. "What happened? Are you alright? " she asked.  

"Yes. I am fine. You tell me. What were you doing in the office so late? " 

"I always work late" Priya answered and then starred closely at him."You know about that already. Is there something in your mind? You don't seem like yourself" she asked worried. 

The Director's words were in his mind but couldn't say anything to her. He cleared his throat and cheered himself up. Flashing his brightest smile, he held her hand tightly "Come. Let me drive you home today" he said ignoring her question. 

While in the vehicle, Ram wanted to inform her about the transfer but looking at her he decided against it. She seemed to be in a  happy state; listening to the old classic while one of her hand held his.