chapter 37

SerendipityEpisode-37‘Megha! Why didn’t you give him just a moment to explain?’ ‘Why did you listen so quietly? Not one word was said to me about it… did I really not let you speak?’ she wondered.‘I don’t understand why I argued with you… that’s never happened before. I never even lose my temper with junior staff, so why with you? It was almost as if I was talking to someone close, someone familiar, to let out whatever was on my mind. But… we barely know each other. Then how did you get so deeply under my skin?’‘Gupta Sir still seemed optimistic that SWC might secure the project. Today in the office, he and Sanyal Sir had been discussing Supreme during lunch, sharing how Sanyal Sir had a lengthy, intense conversation about it. Prakash Sir was quick to mention you, Rajeev… but what was actually asked, and how Gupta Sir responded, was unclear. What would you want to know about me? And would SWC still have a chance?‘Others might accidentally shoot themselves in the foot, but here I am, shooting myself in the foot by arguing with Rajeev Mehra,’Megha thought, feeling the chances of getting the project slipping away. ‘Just let it go, Megha… the Supreme chapter is closed.’Just then, Arya’s voice from the back seat broke through her thoughts, and she resumed listening to Arya’s excited chatter about everything she’d seen and done.*@*@*@*@*Meanwhile, Rajeev’s silver Mercedes left the Mumbai airport, heading toward Juhu.He glanced out the window, catching sight of Star Sahara on the right, and thought back to his recent dinner with Shweta at the restaurant.Dal panchamel… the fallen spoon… and those clouded, innocent eyes… A smile unknowingly crept onto his face. I saw you on the airport, Miss Joshi.Returning from a meeting with the Board of Directors at Technosis in Bangalore, he had boarded the Mumbai flight at 3:30 p.m., now finally free.He glanced at the report Nidhi had emailed him.Impressive track record, Miss Joshi. You’ve handled many critical projects and challenging assignments, he thought,recalling her role in last year’s takeover of the Pritam Group. It was tough, but you managed it remarkably well. And yet, despite SWC’s regular presentations over the last five years, I don’t remember ever seeing you at Supreme.I rarely forget a face… and forgetting yours is impossible.In five years, Supreme hasn’t granted a project to SWC, he mused, yet you directed your frustration right at me. I have a feeling you’ve made up your mind about me.Reflecting on the heated presentation, Rajeev recalled how his initial irritation transformed into admiration. I was furious in the morning, yet by evening, after talking with Prakash Sir, I kept calm… even engaged in discussion. I couldn’t help but remember your presentation and that fierce debate… you have the assertiveness of a lawyer! The opposing counsel would stand no chance against you in court.For years, people have listened when I speak, never questioning or contradicting me. Yet there you were, embodying Durga’s strength in a heartbeat, even though I’d expected the serene presence of Saraswati. He was amazed, considering the challenge that working with her would bring.Still, he thought, a takeover requires a strong team.Miss Joshi, you could be the best leader. But are the other members of your team up to the task?Lost in this contemplation, I reached mumbaiTo be continued....© ®️ Meghna_Yadav 2021Special Thanks to friend Gayatri and my loving daughter, my buddy.Hello Readers,Illuminate the five stars of ratings with your gentle touch. Do let me know your thoughts via comments..Thanks and Regards,Meghana Yadav...