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The alarm clock buzzed obnoxiously, dragging me out of the little sleep I could manage within my hectic life. I groaned before extending my hand over the bedside drawer to slam the device shut.
Without wasting another second, I rolled out of bed, folding the sheets and placing the pillow back in its spot. The habit had been drilled into me over the years- order amid chaos, control over everything I could grasp. It's my second nature now, like a reflex.
I rubbed my neck to ease the tension as I headed toward the bathroom. Running the tap, I splashed cold water on my face to drive away the last traces of sleep that were affecting my energy.
Applying toothpaste to my electric toothbrush and brushing my teeth, I went back to my room and pulled open the tightly drawn curtains. The little moonlight seep inside, welcoming me to a sleeping world.
The streets were empty, with only stray dogs wandering aimlessly under the street lamps.
Of course, no one would be awake at three in the morning. And so, here I am, looking down at them from my penthouse while they sleep soundly amidst their struggles and I take the breathe of the luxury I earned for myself.
After finishing my morning bathroom routine, I headed to the kitchen to gathered some vegetables and eight eggs from the massive refrigerator and rinsed them thoroughly under the tap above the sink.
I placed them into the rice cooker with just the right amount of water and then left for the gymnasium.
Today is leg day!
No matter how sore my muscles feel afterward, there's something undeniably satisfying about pushing through a tough workout. I enjoy experimenting with a bit more weight each day, adjusting the barbell plates just so, and testing my limits with each set.
I plugged in my earpods and kicked off my warm-up. After I felt that familiar rush of heat in my muscles, I dove into a demanding set of deadlifts, powered through a variety of other exercises and wrapped up with leg presses and of course, with a burst of cardio, feeling every bit of the intensity.
After a solid two hours of an intense workout session, I stepped into the shower, letting the refreshing cold water cascade over me. As the droplets slid down my head and trickled along my body, before vanishing beneath my pelvis, I mentally reviewed the day's schedule.
Slipping into my boxers, I made my way downstairs to whip up breakfast.
I transferred the boiled vegetables into the blender. As I started peeling the eggs, my phone rang.
"Morning, Mrs. Saxena."
I said, sliding my earpods back in while adding the eggs to the blender.
"Good morning, Randheer. The Ahujas will be arriving by nine. We have an industry visit scheduled for noon, and you'll meet Ms. Ahuja at Young's Club at seven. Before that, I'd like to have a private chat with you."
Mrs. Urmila Saxena, my PA dictated me my schedule and I went through it once again even though I'm well versed with it. This is our daily morning ritual.
"Got it, Mrs. Saxena. I'll be at my cabin by eight."
After ending the call, I sprinkled a pinch of salt into the blender and set it running. Within minutes, my smoothie was ready.
After pouring the green mix into a tumbler, I walked towards the large tinted glass, enjoying the view of the rising sun.Ā I pondered the day ahead while taking quick sips. The meeting with the Ahujas is a bit of a hassle, but the real highlight is Ms. Jiya Ahuja. She's quite the woman- just as formidable as her father. But, I'm Ranveer Rao.Ā The Ranveer Rao.Ā I know how to handle them.
Today, her father will come by to discuss our collaboration on the 'Zero-Calorie Snack' project. This project is something I'm personally looking upon because, a zero-calorie snack is exactly what I need.
With my schedule so packed, cooking for myself isn't possible. Dietary snacks are my mainstay. Hiring a cook is way too risky for me. I don't want any hindrance in my private space. I love the silence that welcomes me every time I'm back into my penthouse. It stays with me throughout and I enjoy its company even though its barely eight hours a day- still a therapy of eight hours is more than enough right?
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Randheer Rao stepped out of his black sapphire BMW 7 Series and started walking toward the huge glass doors ofĀ Rao's Emporium of Culinary Excellence (RECE)Ā in his all-black attire, giving him the look of darkness cloaked in elegance. The premium fabric worshipped the contours of his body as it hugged his broad shoulders and muscular build perfectly.
Within moments, he was joined by his personal assistant, Mrs. Urmila Saxena, a paragon of elegance and poise. Her dark shades contrasted strikingly with her perfectly tailored white office attire as she walked alongside her boss.
Both of them are the fiery duo of the Emporium. As a woman in her fifties, Mrs. Saxena matches Randheer Rao's discipline and sharp mind with her years of experience and strong intuition. Since their partnership began, all the greatest deals have come the way of RECE.
Surrounded by Rao's high- end bodyguards, Randheer and Mrs. Saxena made their way to his private elevator. The sleek, high-end security detail ensured their passage through the expansive atrium, where their footsteps echoed in the stillness.
The vast space was empty; the staff wouldn't arrive until nine- typical for the start of their workday. But Randheer and his personal assistant were always ahead of the curve, whether it was outpacing their colleagues and staff or staying one step ahead of their competitors.
After settling into Rao's cabin, Randheer and Mrs. Saxena began prepping for the meeting with the Ahujas.
"Mr. Ahuja will use his shrewd tactics, Randheer. He knows what you've invested into this project- EMOTIONS. Be cautious."
Mrs. Saxena cautioned as she projected the presentation onto the large white screen.
Randheer's attention was fixed on the distant screen, his thoughts drifting to the cause of the project.
"I've already decided to stake a substantial portion of my share in it."
He said in a steady voice.
Mrs. Saxena's eyes widened in alarm.
"Sorry Randheer, but have you lost your mind?"
Her outburst jolted him back to the present. He straightened his suit while settling into his plush armchair.
"You know, ma'am, how much this project means to me, right?"
"Of course, I do! But do you even understand what you're saying? You-"
Randheer raised his hand to cut her off, signaling her to hold on.
"See, Mrs. Saxena, the Ahujas have the best marketing strategy. For this project, having their expertise is necessary. Yes, I'm aware of the risks, but the potential rewards are even greater. If we play this right, the stakes will pay off tenfold. It's a gamble I'm willing to take."
"And, if you lose?"
Randheer's gaze was steady, his lips curling into a confident smirk.
"Randheer Rao never loses, Mrs. Saxena. Never ever."
Mrs. Saxena exhaled deeply, shaking her head with a touch of concern.
"I just hope this confidence of yours doesn't lead to your downfall."
She whispered.
Around nine, the meeting wrapped, and an in-house staff member arrived at Rao's cabin with his usual black coffee, no sugar.
Mrs. Saxena had already left for her chamber, which was just a call away from Randheer's.
Sipping his coffee, Randheer continued to pore over a stack of neatly arranged files on his glass desk, the rich aroma of the coffee mingling with the scent of fresh paper and ink. But, Randheer couldn't care less. All he cared about was to work and win.
At ten, Randheer and Mrs. Saxena gathered in the emporium's conference room with Mr. Ahuja and his team.
"Since the main lead of the project is our dear Mr. Rao, why doesn't he make the maximum investment?"
Mr. Ahuja's PA chimed in, a hint of challenge in his tone.
"Isn't the profit going to be distributed equally?"
Mrs. Saxena shot back, her voice steady.
"Of course! But since just our marketing team will handle the entire process, why not let Mr. Rao keep the patent to himself?"
Mr. Ahuja explained with a sly smile.
"That's very generous of you, Mr. Ahuja!"
Randheer remarked with a touch of sarcasm. He leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face.
"I'll make the maximum investment."
He declared.
"You agreed to the terms rather quickly, Mr. Rao. Now, that's surprisingly cooperative!"
Mr. Ahuja replied, his grin widening.
Randheer's smirk didn't waver.
"I'm not one to shy away from a challenge, Mr. Ahuja. Besides, I'm fully aware of what's at stake."
Mrs. Saxena glanced at her boss, clearly puzzled by the swift agreement.
"So, we're clear then? Mr. Rao will handle the patent, and Mr. Ahuja'll proceed with the investment split as discussed?"
"One second, Mrs. Saxena. I have a condition."
Mr. Ahuja said, his tone suddenly taking a serious turn.
Randheer raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued.
"Go ahead, Mr. Ahuja."
"If the project fails to meet the predetermined success criteria, Mr. Rao, you must marry my daughter."
The statement hung in the air, causing a ripple of whispers among Mr. Ahuja's team.
"Jiya?"
Randheer questioned, barely able to keep the surprise out of his voice.
"Yes, Jiya Ahuja, my dearest daughter."
Mr. Ahuja confirmed, his eyes locking with Randheer's.
Randheer's expression remained unchanged, though the wheels in his mind wer
e turning. The condition was wired, but it wasn't something he would shy away from. He leaned back in his chair, a faint smirk curling at the corners of his lips.
"Well, Mr. Ahuja, that certainly adds a new dimension to our agreement."
Randheer said, his voice steady.
"Let's just hope it doesn't come to that."
Mr. Ahuja's gaze was unwavering.
"We'll see, Mr. Rao."
Randheer nodded, his eyes gleaming with determination.
"Indeed. I look forward to proving that this project will exceed all expectations."
As the meeting concluded with them signing the contract papers, Mrs. Saxena watched Randheer closely, a mix of concern and confusiton in her eyes. She knew her boss was more than capable of handling such a high-stakes challenge, but the personal ramifications of Mr. Ahuja's demand were significant.
IN THE EVENING
Mrs. Saxena entered Randheer's cabin after knocking twice on the door. It was around six in the evening, and the rest of the staff had already left for the day. Yet, here were Mrs. Saxena and Mr. Rao, still engrossed in their work.
It had been their daily ritual for the past seven yearsāto arrive early and stay late, driven by their dedication and shared ambition.
She walked in with a mug in her hand and settled herself on the edge of the sofa, resting her hip on the armrest.
"Why'd you agree to Mr. Ahuja's condition instantly?" she asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice.
Randheer, who had been engrossed in signing files, looked up at her. He set his pen aside, leaned back in his chair, and gazed thoughtfully at the ceiling.
"I think it's all Jiya's plan," he finally said, his tone contemplative.
Mrs. Saxena raised an eyebrow. "Jiya's plan?"
"Yes," Randheer said, nodding slowly.
Mrs. Saxena frowned slightly, her curiosity piqued. "You think she's manipulating the situation?"
Randheer smirked and replied.
"That I'll figure out when I meet her tonight."
Mrs. Saxena rolled her eyes.
"Randheer, sometimes you need to be serious about life."
"I am serious! Look, I'm working hard."
He retorted, grinning.
She sighed, shaking her head.
"You're approaching your thirties, and if you don't start thinking about settling down, when will you?"
Randheer leaned back in his chair, his smile widening.
"Settle down? I've got all the time in the world for that. For now, I'm more interested in enjoying the ride."
Mrs. Saxena gave him a disapproving look.
"One day, you'll realize, and then it might be too late."
She warned.
"Yeah, yeah." he said, waving her off.
"For now, let me enjoy the ride. After all, who says you can't mix business with pleasure?"
""Anyways, listen. I've got a request to make."
Mrs. Saxena said, her tone shifting to serious as she took a seat on the edge of his desk.
"Go ahead, madam."
Randheer replied, swiveling his chair to face her, his eyebrows raised in curiosity.
"Randheer, I'm serious. Listen, Angad is getting married three months from now."
"What!"
Randheer's eyes widened in surprise, his casual demeanor momentarily replaced by genuine shock.
"Yes!"
Mrs. Saxena confirmed, her hands gesturing with frustration.
"The Angad Saxena? Your bastard sonā"
Randheer started, but was cut off.
"Randheer, mind your language. I'm still on duty, and I'm his mother. At least in front of me, don't call him that."
She said, her voice edged with irritation.
"But, Mrs. Saxena, he is one."
Randheer countered, a smirk creeping back onto his face.
"I know, but this sudden decision to marry a businesswoman he was fighting a case against just a few months ago! Ahh! My mind!"
She exclaimed, her frustration evident.
"Interesting!"
"Interesting!" Randheer said, leaning back in his chair with a bemused expression.
"Of course!"
She shot back sarcastically, rolling her eyes.
"Listen, I know you hate functions and events, but it's my son's wedding. Your friend's wedding. Please come. I'm asking as Urmila aunty, not Mrs. Saxena."
She pleaded, her tone softening with genuine concern.
Randheer raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips.
"You know I can't resist your requests, Urmila aunty. Consider it done."
Randheer stressed on the word 'aunty' with a teasing grin.
"Someday, both of you boys will be the death of me."
Mrs. Saxena said, shaking her head in exasperation.
Randheer chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye.
"Well, if it's any consolation, I'm not planning on going anywhere anytime soon."
She sighed, rubbing her temples as if trying to fend off a headache.
"You always have something to say, don't you? It's like you never grow up. But, seriously, you're my only hope for a bit of sanity."
"Oh, come on. If you're going to blame me for everything, you should at least acknowledge my contributions to your sanity, too."
Randheer teased, leaning back in his chair with an air of casual arrogance.
Mrs. Saxena shot him a look that could freeze fire.
"If you ever grow up, maybe you'll understand what it's like to juggle between responsibilities and emotions. But for now, you're a headache wrapped in a designer suit."
Randheer laughed, the sound rich and full of amusement.
"That's the best compliment I've received all day."
They both shared a heartfelt laugh, the kind that eased the tension and reminded them of their genuine bond. After some time, Mrs. Saxena decided to call it a day, her laughter lingering in the air.
As she left the room, Randheer watched her go, feeling a rare sense of satisfaction. Amidst all his games, business maneuvers, and the faƧade he maintained, moments like theseāsimple, human, and authenticāserved as a reminder of the connections that truly mattered.
Pushing these thoughts aside, he rose from his chair. He left his office and made his way to the Young's Club.
IN THE YOUNG'S CLUB
Loud music is booming through the speakers, colorful lights splashing in sync with the beats, and the dance floor is packed with people hopping and enjoying themselves freely.
Randheer walked straight to the corner where multiple seating arrangements were made.
A young lady with red hair, wearing a V-neck black sling dress, sat behind a table with her legs crossed.
Randheer approached the table with a confident stride, his eyes locking onto the red-haired woman. He slid into the seat opposite her, undoing the buttons of his coat, his gaze never wavering as he leaned back casually, a smirk playing on his lips.
"If you were hoping to get wifed up by me, you picked the wrong guy, Jiya."
He started, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Jiya raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
"Wifed up? That too by you?"
She let out a soft laugh.
"Please, Randheer. I have no intention of settling down with a playboy."
Randheer's smirk deepened, intrigued by her bluntness.
"Then what's the game here?"
"Nothing, just my dad wanting me to get married. I'd had enough fun with you for a lifetime."
She leaned forward, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
Randheer chuckled.
"Seems like your father wants this 'fun' of yours to everlast."
She shrugged, leaning back in her chair with a frown."
"What now?"
Randheer leaned forward, narrowing his eyes.
"He wants me to marry you if the project fails."
She nodded, her expression hardening.
"So, it's about business, now."
Randheer scoffed, shaking his head.
"And how do you feel about that?"
She met his gaze, her eyes fierce.
"I'm not marrying you or anyone because of some failed business deal. I'm here to have fun, not to get shackled."
Randheer leaned back, a small smile playing on his lips.Ā How about a little game now?
"What if I want it?"
He tried testing her.
"Aww, Randheer, you were never in the running for anything more than a good time. Both of us know that?"
She met his gaze with a sly smile, not missing a beat.
"What if I make you fall for me?"
She chuckled firmly.
"I know what I want, and what I don't."
That's nice.
Randheer relaxed internally.
"Explain what you 'want' to your father."
"I will. Don't worry. I'll not marry you."
She assured him with a confident smile.
As Randheer got up to leave, a guy swaggered over to Shanay, his eyes lingering on her with a sleazy grin.
"How much you charging for a night?"
He sneered.
Without missing a beat, Shanay shot back,
"Fuck off!"
Undeterred, the guy reached out, slipping her sling sleeve off her shoulder.
Before he could get any closer, Randheer's fist connected with the guy's face, sending him crashing to the ground. The thud echoed through the room as the guy groaned, clutching his bloodied nose.
Randheer glared down at the guy writhing on the floor and said coldly.
"When you're asked to 'fuck off,' do exactly thatā'fuck off.'"
The music abruptly stopped as the crowd gathered around them, murmuring in shock. Randheer didn't bother to look back as he strode out. His bodyguards swiftly picked up the guy, dragging him away without a word.
Shanay, still seated, watched Randheer's disappearing figure with a mix of admiration and surprise.
She whispered to herself.
"You did make me fall for you."
.āļø ÜĖ