MG FF: Quantum of Solace Thread 2 - Page 86

Originally posted by: Limerance

Truthfully I'm afraid in becoming attached to another show after Geet. It's not likely to happen but still...it literally took over my life in the beginning.

I think I'm not in that at all now...even with Geet I could skip if I want to...not worth it...Indian shows are not going to create history with flawless story ever...

Originally posted by: Limerance

I know!! I was trying to reserve the spot but stupid thing was like spamming not permitted!

IF makes me so mad at times! lol

Im having the same issue and top of that internet is slow...🥱

Originally posted by: Newdime

You know Min...all you have to do is...buzz me and i'll be there for you...and yes Azi would get started with it...too bad she is not around...I tried her on FB...seems too busy with her Family.

😡 MINAL...you dont have to be formal with me...be free girl...its not worth to waste our precious time for consideration...be ready for worst come worst...flat out..."I'm Busy right now" so what? who cares...and be like that too...Take a chill pill Girl...

I want to load that pix of my Cup here...let me try...

Originally posted by: Newdime

I think I'm not in that at all now...even with Geet I could skip if I want to...not worth it...Indian shows are not going to create history with flawless story ever...

"Take a chill pill" always reminds me of K3G.. lol

Originally posted by: Newdime

😡 MINAL...you dont have to be formal with me...be free girl...its not worth to waste our precious time for consideration...be ready for worst come worst...flat out..."I'm Busy right now" so what? who cares...and be like that too...Take a chill pill Girl...

I want to load that pix of my Cup here...let me try...

I was about to wonder where Krish went did I scared her away LOL

and no luck to download the pix through my old fashioned laptop.😕

Alright...next one is mine also ladies. :)

Part 30

While the grey sky loomed of heavy clouds laden with anxiety, the important people in Geet's life provided rays of light on the dismal day. Undoubtedly, she was grateful for each their wishes and blessings but even more so when they arrived at the courthouse.

In every direction Geet turned her head all she could see was roves of cars and masses of people. As much as she wanted to blame Maan for the traffic mess she recognized he wasn't the only one at fault. Their own security detail, who were a complete surprise to Geet until they descended on her loft in the wee hours before dawn, along with the Walters, New York City police, and ever present media, all caused bustling morning travel to come to a standstill with the magnitude of vehicles blocking the courthouse street.

Geet knew this was the norm for people of high stature but she had given up this world years ago. So for her it was nothing but all frighteningly new and filled with uncertainty. It caused her mind to reel of thoughts of the aftermath this would all bring. She chided herself for not being more alert about the press and the consequences they could bring. Because now facing the Walters in court wasn't at the top of Geet's worry list.

It was the fact that she was going to be on every major news network and paper in the country. That brought on the inevitable thought of just how long it would be until the news spread like wildfire across the Atlantic. That is if it hadn't already. It meant everything she wanted to keep hidden, most foremost herself from Rohan was at risk of exposure. A deep worrisome sigh left her body knowing there was nothing, absolutely nothing she could do about it.

Watching her silently stare outside Maan was in his own upheavals. He was disappointed that despite all his efforts to keep things quiet he'd failed. He was furious that information of true and false nature had been leaked and that too strategically by no one other than Edward Walters. His orderly timed actions made it clear to Maan that the man was indeed ruthless.

Walters knew absolute hysteria would result once the press found out who Geet was. He played that to his advantage by leaking the knowledge when they least expected it, the very last minute. He understood by then there was nothing they could do and more importantly, the possibility of it demoralizing Geet. The only good that could come from this Maan believed was that everything would finally be out in the open for Rohan. As his eyes strayed to his watch Maan realized it was getting late.

Clasping her hand he spoke, "I understand the media is worrying you but there is nothing we can do Geet."

"I know but it's become second nature Maan, I can't help it." She said still fixated outside thumbing the chain on her neck.

Maan nudged her face to make her focus her attention towards him. "Look at me Geet. I'm with you. We will take whatever comes our way one step at a time."

From the look on his face Geet realized only then how concerned he was about her breaking down. "I don't doubt that for a second Maan. But you need to calm down. I'm not going to have a meltdown that you fear." Geet teased in effort to lighten the air.

He smiled knowing from the confidence radiating in her eyes she was telling the truth. He only hoped it lastly once they walked out from there. Leaning close he softly kissed her forehead. "I know you're not Geet. It's just that your worrying habit is now rubbing off on me."

Geet lightly laughed knowing it could fully be possible while straightening her clothing. Maan smiled and squeezed her hand, "Are you ready Dr. Handa?"

She nodded, "As ready as I ever will be Mr. Khurana." Maan shook his head at her then replaced his ease going face with one more suited for the public as he opened the door. The intense flashes and scrutinizing questions that were directed their way led Geet to instinctively clutch close to Maan's side with her head down after leaving the safety of their tinted sanctuary.

"Dr. Handa is it true you are an heir to the Handa Empire?"

"What about your relationship with Mr. Khurana? Is it business related or something more?"

"What do you have to say about Edward Walters's recent accusation?"

"Mr. Khurana, would you like to comment on the falling of Khurana Industries share prices this morning?"

Their security effectively pushed the eager press back but that did little to nothing to stop the voices or cameras. Maan tugged Geet closer wrapping an arm around her shoulder and she buried her face into his chest.

The press inquires continued despite Maan and Geet having already reached the interior safety of the courthouse. Along with a hit of the case's enormity, a shockwave of how foolish she was also ran through Geet. Feeling the jitters in her hand, Get realized it was not the time or place to worry about all this. What was done was done, she had to accept it and be optimistic. Geet shook her head to rid of all the troubling thoughts as Maan crossed the distance to where Mr. Klein stood.

After quickly exchanging formalities they entered the courtroom and took their seats on the defendant's side. Geet tried her hardest not to look across but gave in. Seeing a gleeful look on Edward Walters's face caused her blood boil. Despite all that they had done to her, Geet still felt remorse for him as he lost his father but clearly that didn't matter to him. Maan noticing the preoccupation grabbed Geet's hand to pull her attention away. "He's not worth getting worked up over." Geet huffed agreeing and turned her attention to the now speaking deputy.

They all rose to stand for the Judge whose appearance took Geet by surprise. She was expecting a stout little man not a silver haired slender woman with sharp features. Her no nonsense appearance gave Geet some hope that she could straighten out the asinine unsympathetic human being standing a few feet away.

"Good morning ladies and gentlemen. We are present today for the medical negligence case brought on by Mr. Edward Walters and his attorney Jerry Miller against Dr. Geet Handa represented by William Klein. Are both sides prepared?" Their respective lawyers nodded in agreement.

"I'm pleased to hear that but to your disappointment it will be of little use this morning." She took her black rimmed glasses off with a deep sigh. "There are elements of this case that have led me to make a decision that will be possibly unpleasant for one or even both sides. Regardless, it's necessary and in the best interest of all parties including the system. Thus, I would like to discuss it with both lawyers in my chambers immediately."

A somber wave wafted through the courtroom air as the gavel dropped. From the look of surprise on both sides it was evident that neither was expecting this turn of events. Mr. Klein and Mr. Miller were led to the Judge's mahogany wooded chamber to find all composure she held outside to disappear instantly.

"In all my years as a New York City Judge never have I seen such a scene that is evident today. My courthouse has become nothing less of a circus arena and I don't like it one bit."

"Your honor, it's understandable you are upset by the media but that is simply out of our control…" With a sharp wave and glaring look from the Judge made Mr. Miller shut his mouth.

"I was speaking Mr. Miller. Do not interrupt me again. As it being out of your control, let's not go there. Your client has been more than willing to speak to the press about this case. Although that is something I absolutely despise, it's not against the law. However, Mr. Edwards's alternative ways are and I suggest you get that through his thick skull rather quickly."

"Pardon me your honor. I don't quite understand what you mean," stated a confused and frightened Mr. Miller.

Her eyes narrowed, "I find that very hard to believe. But I will spell it out for you once and only once. If he tries to bribe me or anyone else involved in this case directly or indirectly, I will not only throw this case out with prejudice but also charge him for obstruction of justice. Have I made myself understood?"

Mr. Miller meekly nodded. "Good. Now let's get to the point. I cannot have what happened today to be repeated. Wasting tax payer money by having half of New York City police controlling the press outside my courthouse is not constructive or reasonable. Hence, I want this litigation sorted out quickly between your clients before the trial begins. I'm sure you both understand what I want but would like to address the same to your clients. Please bring them in."

Geet nearly collapsed by being summoned to the Judge's chambers. Leaving her loft that morning she felt prepared for anything and everything but her arrival here caused every shred of that feeling to burn. She couldn't fathom what caused this simple hearing before the trial to change into this gut churning state. The only thing that gave her hope was the sight of a pale Mr. Miller upon entering the chamber.

"Usually discussion in my chambers is to be between the lawyers and I, however, the circumstances of this case are such that I must address you all also. As I'm sure you've noticed the case has already gotten out of control and we haven't even begun the process. Hence, I want a settlement outside of court, make your negotiations or deal with the consequences." She stopped her wandering eyes directly on Edward Walters with razor sharpness. "The latter is clearly intended towards you, Mr. Walters. I'm sure you understand where I'm getting at, but if not your lawyer will explain the details, which I suggest you take into consideration greatly or else it won't be pretty for you."

His face fell with those words as no one had ever reprimanded him in such a manner. "I thought that would get that smirk off your face. Now, focus on settling this instead of garnering unnecessary media attention. Lawyers, I want a settlement to be made within a month. Dr. Handa and Mr. Walters, if you are unable to reach a decision then trial is set to begin August 4^th. However, I sincerely hope I never have to see you then. This conference is adjourned."

Edward Walters unsurprisingly wasn't pleased with the turn of events and stormed out. Maan could see Geet wasn't fairing any better but not out of anger but confusion. He asked Mr. Klein to meet with them after lunch in his office, he obliged and they parted ways. Not wanting to face anymore dramatics for the day Maan had their car be brought to the back entrance away from the media.

The uneasiness of her true identity being discovered was replaced by anguish of more important factors as she recalled all the questions so easily thrown by the press. Geet understood the matter of being seen with each other would raise questions yet it still bothered her. And what did they mean by recent accusation? Was there something she didn't know? Then there was the consequence of Maan's company being affected. A deep pang resonated in her heart realizing the root of all this was her one single issue.

Seeing Geet's distant eyes transfixed aimlessly on the leather headrest in front of her Maan grew worried realizing she was fitting together the pieces. He knew the time to lay everything out had long past but it was all done in her best interests and hoped she'd understand when he told her at home. In the time being, Maan realized reflecting in the solitude of their mind wasn't the right path. "Geet, please stop staring and talk to me."

"What do you want me to say Maan? I'm so confused by this all." She responded dejectedly. A part of Geet felt relieved they might not have to appear in court again yet the alternative wasn't any better.

"What's there to be confused about? You heard the Judge, settle it out of court or go back in a month." He wanted her to stop side stepping her true words and get to the point.

"You know what I'm talking about. The media has connected all the pieces. Your company is being negatively affected; my father's company is probably going to be in the same position after today. By not accepting a deal I put everyone at risk again while the trial continues. And a settlement would mean I'd be accepting guilt and in my mind I'm not guilty." She closed her eyes and rested her head back. "I can't win either way."

Maan was worried too but between the two of them, one definitely needed a steady calm mind with what was about to unearth. He reached over taking hold of her hand assuring her. "I understand the situation but we can't rush all this. Let's going home, rest a while then think with a clear mind."

Geet turned to him. "How can we go home? We have to meet Mr. Klein in a little bit."

"Don't worry about that. We will discuss it over the phone or come back in a few days. Just relax." Maan realized how empty his last two words were right then but hoped by pulling her against him Geet could feel some comfort and calm down. From the fact she eased without struggle it appeared she had.

Lying against him, Geet mentally mulled over all the possibilities that could result before dozing off due to exhaustion of multiple forms. In the silence Maan dealt with issues so generously brought on by media fiasco. His patience wore thin within listening to only three of the numerous messages he'd received. Having enough of the nonsense, Maan called Adi who not only enlightened him that they were in a bigger dilemma than previously anticipated but also ushered Maan's state of mind from frustration to pure anger.