KC Misses SC Very Much-Chap 28- Upd Pg 83 - 23rd June 2014 - Page 57

Originally posted by: tharasach

Waiting for the next update!!!

Originally posted by: sinalbest

Hi Silambu.. 😊

Merry Christmas to u too.. 😃
U r a fab writer.. 👏
loved every bit of it.. 👏 ⭐️
U showed superbly that how much sinal loves each other.. 👏 ⭐️
Where there is extreme love there is lust too..

Hats off yaar.. ⭐️

plz do pm me next updates.. 😊

Originally posted by: eshi.nl

Finally read it 😃
Silambu 👏 👏 loved it.
This Kunal is so dangerous and unpredictable 😆 🤣 what a surprise to Siddhi 😆. Siddhi was trying to be innocent but whatever She was doing is only to grab his attention 😆 very Nice update.Kunal grabbing her in his arms reminds me of shilpa's wedding episodes
Can't wait for next update 😃 Thanks for sending pm 😊

Originally posted by: -Rojaa-

Im late 😳 but late vanthalum latesta varuven😎 * thalaivar style I read it that day u posted but as usual i was lazy 🤔

I love Shika baby i guess I've told this hundred times. i don't want Shika - Sid to be separated😭 * sorry Kc 🤣 The bond between mother-daughter is so adorable that it breaks one's heart to even imagine them staying away from each other💔. Whenever i read ur FF i just imagine Sid ( read Keerti ) and a cute kid on screen. i guess my unfulfilled wish to see Aanandi has resulted in such pagalpaan 🤣 yes i was badly waiting for Aanadi and it didn't happen anyways coming back to the topic 😳

Why do i feel they will return back from this trip in midway 😕

I guess I've told u already , Silambu u write in a way i always wanted Parichay to be and i can understand the characters much better , so thanks and u r a star ⭐️

PS: my usual question😆, when will we get the next part ? this week-end ? 😳

Hi guys

Kunal who was seated besides Pascal, was cool and calm. Just nodded and said.

"Pascal, I agree with you totally, that it would not make any sense for you to do business after what you and your team presented to us just now.. But before going to such extreme measures, we have something to show you as well which you might want to see.

Kunal looked at Siddhi and signalled her to present which she had prepared .

"You are right about the sales drop. As you can see from here, our purchases from you , which is your sales have been fallen by 40% compared to previous year. We have four big trade fairs, which is conducted externally. Each fair lasts about 5 days - Thurs to Sunday. We have good sales but wait a minute, this is where our nightmare begins. We are overstocked with your merchandise. We are forced to buy more than what we can accommodate ."

"What happens after the trade fair is over? The balance stocks have to be returned to our own warehouse. Not only we have too much stock, the warehouse and distribution costs now falls on our head . Why because, you do not accept return policy. "

"And it becomes a struggle for us to push the stock to our stores selling at the same price as every other retailer . We don't have any promotional support from your side, once the trade fair is over."

"There is no genuine intention to grow sales from your end. From what we could see , this is the problem

1) Over stock merchandise for the trade fairs

2) No aggressive price point from your end to deplete the stock once the trade fair is over.

3) Normal orders cant be done as stocks needs to be cleared from the trade fairs

4) Fall on commercial margin

5) Slow moving stocks are passed to us than other retailers.

6) Facing , Out of stock for the fast moving goods as priority is given to other retailers.

7) Lack of exclusive promotion activities and freebies

8) The stockdays are over 200 days and we need to devalue it - losing more money.

"So to conclude, we cannot keep buying from you if we don't come to an agreement on how you are going to help us clear the overstock merchandise. "Sddhi finished

Pascal was listening very intently paying attention to all the graphs and numbers, Siddhi presented. He was frowning slightly.

"You see Pascal, I have just taken over this organization. From what I could see. There is a serious problem on both sides. Trade fairs can only be successful with return policy. No point using this opportunity to force the stock on us for it only will end up in the warehouse. That being the case, it will affect our normal day to day business. Definitely my people will be hesitant to order the stock, as the priority is to clear the stock from the warehouse, that is the overstock flowing from the trade fairs. So they only order the barest minimum that is required ". Kunal added as further explanation on the fall of purchases volume.

"So Pascal, as you can see, the business has potential to grow but it should be a win win situation for all. We are not running a charity organization. You should get value for your investment and we should get the right profit from selling your goods. Both your team and mine have to sit together to work out

1) What level of stock is actually required for the trade fairs..

2) Work on very attractive price offers. Good deals - Real value for the money. The spender should go home having well spent the money for a good purchase,

3) Excess stock - work out the action plan to clear the stocks within two weeks in store

"This way, both your team and mine will be motivated to work towards one goal. Sales and margin. Everyday normal ordering will be healthy and the stock level too."

"I have no issues taking stocks from you ...but what are you giving me in return? Still Pushing products that doesn't move to my stores? Poor deals than the rest? Why would they come to my stores if they can get the same deal every or even better with freebie sthrown in, and on top I am stuck with your goods at the warehouse and have to absorb your warehouse and distribution cost because your team fail to a proper job."

"So Pascal, I agree that we too cant continue doing business if there is no common understanding between us. It has to work both ways. Not one way. Though you are one of the biggest supplier of an established well branded electronic and electrical products, I am prepared not to carry your products in my stores if we cant reach an amicable agreement. I can always get another brand and promote it well. So yes, we should end our business now before you lose further Pascal, as you claim, not to mention even I don't intend to lose anything at all" Kunal delivered in a a deadly calmness.

After Kunal dropped his bombshell , the final punch, there was a eerie silence in the room. The meeting had only key people. Four of them from their side . Whatever it was , this was not what they expected from Kunal. They wanted to scare him by threatening to withdraw their business but they didn't expect him to agree with it. It was evident that Pascal was caught off guard. Clearly his people has failed to feed him with some relavant information . Siddhi knew this supplier was too arrogant. They were big boys in the electrical business. Their attitude. I am the KING. Take it or leave it is well know in the market.. No one dared to offend this supplier but Kunal didn't care one bit.. He had done his homework . Had crunch the sales , margin and stock performances numbers well and knew the supplier was stringing them along. Testing to see if they would be frightened if they pull out.

"No,Kunal, let's not be hasty. I know that you just bought and took over. We wanted to present to you the difficulties we faced in the past and we wanted to make sure its not repeated again .This meeting was just to address the issues of the past so that we could have a better future " Pascal tried pacifying Kunal.

"Yes, I know the problems in the past Pascal. And that's why I am personally here so that we can thrash it out.. I don't like doing business with companies who are only interested in meeting their targets but do not work together with the clients to improve sales, margins, new innovations. There are many new products missing in my stores which other retailers have. This is already a setback for us. Appreciate that you wanted us to know your difficulties but I am very sure you know clearly the mess we are in now, is thanks to your team of pushing stocks during the trade fairs, making it virtually impossible for us to move further. So I would say, the problem lies in your team. I cant blame my team for cutting orders. And you punished us by not giving latest products which are in high demand and there don't seems to be any genuine interest for customers to visit our stores. Cant blame them when they could get the products elsewhere.. We are not in your preferred list, which I can see it very clearly. "

" So I see no reason in continuity here. That's all Pascal , I have to say. Well, too bad that we have to end it this way. But its better this way than bleed profusely. I have another appointment . So if you will excuse us.." Kunal said getting up from his seat and Pascal and all others too got up . They were all looking stunned at the abrupt way the meeting ended and Pascal was visibly uncomfortable for the words he said earlier. "

The meeting didn't go well according from the supplier's point of view .They didn't get to achieve what they set out to get. Kunal really pulled a number on them.

"Kunal, I think we are over reacting here. There is no need to reach such a decision. I am sure we can work something out. Give me a couple of weeks and we come up with an action plan and a proposal how we can bring our business forward."

"Time and tide waits for no man, Pascal. I cant sit around and wait for you for that long. You know I am relaunching our stores with new look and I need to decide which products will be prime focus and who, that is which suppliers are with me. I need the answer now. You have till 5 pm... I am sure you understand that this is just business, and I have to make arrangements to look for alternative...fast " Kunal said very firmly with a punch.

Pascal looked more shaken.. He couldn't not afford to lose them. They are talking about big money here.. The relaunch of the stores is very important. He had already heard suppliers were queuing up to put their brands in his reinvented stores. He had heard of Kunal shrewd business deal but didn't expect him to discontinue the business. They cant let the competitors to replace their products. ! They will lose market share.

"Okay, agreed. Kunal rest assured, that the last thing we want is to discontinue the business. I will work with my directors how we can resolve the issues. You will have my answer by tomorrow. I promise you that" Pascal assured Kunal as a sort of a well , dignified plea.

"Alright.Good" Kunal nodded and shook hands with him and the rest. It was her cue to follow him.

"Kunal, I don't think they can come up with something by tomorrow . You need to give them some time to work on the numbers. You are giving them too much pressure and they might do the opposite" Siddhi said to Kunal when they were in their limousine on the way to the hotel.

"No they wont. That's exactly what they needed. The pressure The push. They will do the right thing if they know what is best for them. They need us more than anything now with the relaunch, the new look and concept. They will lose out if they are not in our stores. Dont worry, he will call us by this evening , even before the deadline." Kunal said with confidence and smiled at her.

"By the way, you did a good job in the presentation. Well analyzed ." Kunal complemented her

"Thank you. I didn't do it alone. Merchandise director was there to help me too" Siddhi said taken by his sudden compliment. " and you were not bad your self" Siddhi had to say it. He was just simply too good. He turned the tables around very well, remaining clam and cool...but with an arrogance that he will emerge as the winner. A force to be reckoned with.. She liked that very much.

Kunal just shrugged his shoulders and turned away to look out at passing scenery as their limousine sped on the highway.

After some time, the vehicle stopped at a private property ...it looked like an exclusive condominium building.. Why are they stopping here when they are supposed to go to the hotel to check in, Siddhi wondered. Was he meeting someone here?

"Alright ,our destination has arrived. Let's go" kunal Invited Siddhi as he got out of the car.

"Er...Kunal...why are we stopping here? Aren't we supposed to check into a hotel? Siddhi got out uncertainly and asked him with bewilderment.

"Nope , not hotel. I have a penthouse here. Why book into a hotel when I have a big apartment here" Kunal answered Siddhi so simply as if she would just meekly accept how he arranged her stay accommodation without her consent.. Well she will tell him so!

" I am not staying in your apartment Kunal . Please ask the driver to take me to a nearby hotel.I will put up there. You can do whatever you want. " Siddhi said with anger rising but she kept her anger in control. How dare he make such a decision without consulting her?. In his apartment indeed! Did he do this deliberately.? Not that he cannot afford the hotel . He could have just stayed here by himself and she could have in a hotel.

"Dont be silly Siddhi. I have ample rooms in this apartment. This place is central and its convenient for me to travel and besides i have a couple who takes cares of the household chores and my guests too and stop arguing over such matters. " Kunal said in a clipped voice which meant no argument.

"It may suit you and perhaps your other guests,but not me. I don't care . I still prefer to stay in a hotel and this is not appropriate. " Siddhi said adamantly

"Fine suit yourself. This is where I always stay as I have a office which suits my needs. Just remember one thing, you need to come back here whenever I call for you to discuss over things which could be a few times and late hours . So don't complain about the shuttling to and fro and being tired. Traffic is terrible and you wont be abe to get a cab easily. I don't wish to discuss such things at the hotel lobby and for that reason , I made this arrangement as its perfect. Its central, convenient and traffic hassle free " Kunal finished angily and instructed the driver to send her to a nearest hotel as she wished.

He walked off.!He didn't even bid goodbye and left her standing there beside the car. .

Well, put it like that it made sense. Is she creating a ruckus for nothing. Gone was the passionate man . The last thing he would do is seduce her here..right?. What was she thinking? And even chided herself to think on such silly thoughts. She was over reacting over nothing.

She had to agree that this place seems to be very convenient with easy accessibility to everywhere. The airport was near.. It took them less than 10 mins to arrive from the supplier place to this place. It sure seems to be convenient as he says and she didn't want any unnecessary delays.

Kunal walked ahead ,knowing full aware that within few seconds she would be following him . Like he predicted, he heard the click of her high heels on the smooth marble floor ground right behind him. Furious fast running clicks. He smiled wickedly. His plan was working out well so far. Poor siddhi, she must be thinking that seduction was the last thing on his mind when that was what exactly he was going to do. Tonight!

He went into the lift pretending not to notice her and she followed him just when the lift door almost closed on her ! He didn't even hold the lift for her! He completely ignored her! That wretch man knew she was behind him!

"Hey! Ouch! Siddhi let out a cry when the door hit her arm but the sensors stopped the doors from completely closing on her.

Kunal looked up at her in surprise as if he wasn't aware that she was right behind him." Oh, you forgot something. ?"Kunal asked with such innocence that she wanted to smack him right there! He had a nerve.

" No, I have decided to stay here. " Siddhi said grudgingly.

"Good choice" Kunal remarked and pressed a button on the lift which brought them to his penthouse.

They were greeted by a man servant and a woman with a huge smiles on their faces. They were so pleased to see their master back. Kunal introduced them to her and was speaking to them in a friendly tone. Siddhi ventured into the living room and stood uncomfortably there in the middle. Not sure if she should sit or not. Her eyes moved around the apartment . She could see an outdoor balcony...there seems to be a pool and lush plants...like a garden setting. It appeared to be a big place. There was even staircase ...

"I will show you to your room upstairs." Kunal interrupted her thoughts.

She followed him upstairs which appeared to be a guest room. Well, in all honestly, the room looked so modern. It had a large version of a queen size bed. Tall French windows , leading to a an attached balcony. Over the other side she could see a bathroom...and

"Why don't you freshen up , while I ask the housemaid to make some refreshments for us. " Kunal said and left the room.

The minute he left. She locked the doors and went to her room where there was a writing table. She sat there and called her home to check on Shika.

It was still too early for Shika to notice her absence as she normally would reach home around 8 pm. Chantelle said Shika and Mary were playing and later on she will bring Shika out for shopping and to a neighbour's place to divert her attention. She would be too tired and she will find some excuse to tell the little poppet .

Siddhi said if there's any problem to call her . Chantelle asked for her hotel details in case she needs to call. Well, Siddhi had no choice but said she is staying in Kunal's place and she can be contactable on her mobile anytime and hung up.

There was a knock on her door. Siddhi went to answer it. It was Kunal! Well who did she expect? The hotel manager!

"Yes? She asked him enquiringly

" Pascal just called me and says that they are ready to do what we asked and they want to make sure things are going in the right away, they have invited us to a dinner at the hotel. " Kunal informed her with a wicked wink.

"Oh wow, that' great news. Honestly I didn't expect them to relent this soon. But its good.!" Siddhi could not stop her smile spreading from her face .She was so happy and all thanks to Kunal. He had made the ultimatum which no one would have dared to make with any top notch supplier. But Kunal meant every word he said and they knew it. Better not mess with him.

" So get ready by 8 and we should arrive just in time as the hotel is only about 20 mins drive from here. Do you have an evening wear or need to go for shopping ?" Kunal asked siddhi

"No, no, its ok. I always pack something for the evening when I travel. So yes, I have everything I need." Siddhi answered feeling a little shy going over explaining about her clothings.

"Ok. That's settled. Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat? Kunal asked suddenly .

"Er ...no not really. I am still full with the lunch we had in the plane. I fine. " SiddhIi declined.

"Ok. If you need anything , just give a buzz to the kitchen. They will prepare something for you. Dont be shy. Ask anything. ." Kunal nodded informed and left.

He had a good couple who run the household well!

Siddhi closed the door and was wondering...why Kunal was being so kind. Not that he was bad. But well after the last time, she would have expected him to care less about her but he seems to be going out of his way to please her since the trip. Oh was she imagining? No , no he was just being normal. His usual self. He would have done the same thing for any other employee. He was being a nice boss taking care of his employee well being. That's all. Why think there is more to it.?

She would have love to venture this place...to find out about some information...like if he is really married. She didn't want to intrude...maybe when he is not around. She didn't see any family photos in the hallway on her way up. Place is modern and masculine in design from the little she had seen. It was really pleasing to the eyes.

She sat tiredly on the bed. Plenty of time still to get ready for dinner. She laid on the mattress and dozed off ...she was at the beach, sitting cross legged on the sand...the rolling sound of the waves and a child's happy giggle brought a smile to her face. Then she saw a little girl...Shika running fast excitedly, looking back while she was running to see her pursuer...her dad...Kunal. The little girl's girls giggle turn into a squeal when Kunal swept her off her feet and slung her across his shoulders on his back. Then she giggled when Kunal swung her again to the front and he lifted her higher in the air and brought her down , then blowing raspberries on her stomach and tickling till Shika laughed loudly and was begging "Daddy, please stop...daddieee...nooo...

"No! Siddhi sat up with a jerk and looked around her wildly...and realized that she had a dream...where both Kunal and Shika was having fun at the beach...father and daughter.!

She didn't understand the dream..why dreaming now...and wondered if it could be from guilt. . Guilt of separating a father and daughter . Depriving them of the relationship which only she knows about. Her little secret. The unveiling of the truth would hurt all of them.

Should she confess the truth to Kunal about Shika later tonight? But how will he take it?

Hey Kunal...guess what I lied to you three years ago. I didn't miscarry our baby. You have a little girl and she would be three soon. I did this because I didn't want to be in yours and Richa's way. ...but now I feel i need to get if off my chest. So let's go and meet your daughter shall we?

Hmmm seriously Siddhi you are expecting a lot from Kunal to be so calm...that's not going to work...nope... and she dare not imagine Kunal's reaction.

No there has to be a nicer subtle way to say this...he seems to be in good mood. And if this continues after dinner with the suppliers, all the more better...for her to break the news of him being a father in a gentle way . Surely he will understand why she did what she did? She only hoped that the father will be thrilled to bits...but something else tells her otherwise. Oh, well...there is no nicer way to say it. She has to take the bullet!

She went on to get ready for the evening.. The little black dress to the rescue. A sleeveless knee length black dress hugging her figure snugly, like the coco chanel design of sort. She let her hair loose and wore a pair of long earrings,her only accessories and applied some light nude coloured make up.

She looked very elegant and simple ,without appearing too loud for a business dinner. She was ready by 7.30 pm . Should she wait for Kunal in her room?

She decided ,better for her to go downstairs and wait for him in the living room. There was no one in the living room and she took this opportunity to venture out to the open doors from the balcony...leading to the pool and the garden...

It was breathtaking ...and so cozy . The faraway mountains...Just picture perfect. Why not ? Its the penthouse and prices of such property in Hongkong is only for the rich who could afford.. And this new Kunal certainly knows how to enjoy his wealth in investing in tangible assets. The pool was inviting her to take a dip and the landscape garden around it was so beautiful with lush potted plants and flower gently swaying in the evening breeze. A little further, there was an alfresco type of ratten chairs and table for casual relaxed eating anytime of the day .

If Kunal is not married, did he bring his mistress or girlfriends here often...wine, dine and dance and later carrying them to his bedroom for some passionate moments? The thought of Kunal with another woman, brought a seething jealousy in her. She knew she had no right to feel like that but then she just could not bear him being so intimate with another woman. She just could not.! She has to stop this mental torture of him with other women!

"That's quite a frown, you are having Siddhi " Kunal remarked and she looked up at him in startled surprise for she was so engrossed on those thoughts of Kunal and his mistress, that she didn't even notice him when he was standing right in front of her.

She flushed in embarrassment.

"That must be due to the excitement you are going out with me for dinner" Kunal teased irritatingly.

"I am not going out for dinner with you. Its a business dinner , courtesy of our sulpplier , who came to his senses after the less than 24 hours notice you gave him. " Siddhi corrected him acidly

"Well, I never force anyone to do anything. I just give them options." Kunal shrugged his broad shoulders indifferently.

She took a good look at him. He was in complete black. Well in different shades of black and she noticed he was in the process of knotting his tie. A plain silk maroon tie. He must have had shower just a moment ago, for his hair still glistened from the moisture and looked damp and his designer stubble gave him a pirate look. He looked very elegant and aggressively all male.

"Damn this tie..." Kunal was swearing and muttering under his breath , struggling with his tie with a look of impatience

"Here, let me..."Siddhi said before she could retract her offer. Old habits die hard. She has done this many times in the past. This is something she had always loved to do...

Kunal stopped whatever he was doing and looked at her in surprise by her offer of assistance. She moved towards him and stood in front of him. She took over and went about doing the knot for him. She was so nervous inside. With excitement and also fear that he might see her weakness.

She practiced this a lot when she was with him and perfected it. And he always rewarded her with kisses...again...her treacherous mind brought her down memory lane which refused to be locked within her, reminding and mocking her what she had been missing...small things but it mattered a lot. It was not forgotten but just buried deep within her.

She forced herself her mind to be in control and went about the task efficiently like a good wife...oops no well a ...good employee? Do employees go around knotting ties for their bosses?

Kunal stood still while she completed the process. "There, you are...its looks perfect now" Siddhi said a little awkwardly .

"Hmmm...you smell nice" Kunal took a deep breath and looked down on his tie and with a smile of appreciation " Thank you"

He went onto the mirror to check the knot. He knew it will be perfect. It was all part of the seduction plan.He wanted her to do it for him and he got her to do it...by night he would have her on his bed...it would be a long night...she will just do whatever he asks.

He thought to himself. So far so good. Everything going smoothly without any hitch, though he had nothing to do with the supplier decision or the dinner invitation. But what is there to complain.?It works perfectly into his plan. A night out will mellow and soften her and it would give them some time alone later...he is looking forward to the night of passion. He felt like a teenager on his first date.! This woman was a mystery. He could never tame her. She would fight like a wild cat which he liked. He enjoyed watching the different expressions on her faces when they were intimate.. wanted to see if she would be still the same.

It was one of the most famous hotel and they were shown to an exclusive table, where Pascal and a few others were already seated and waiting for them Everyone stood up at their entrance. Kunal and Siddhi made a striking couple and many heads turned at them with looks of admiration and envy as they walked passed.

Siddhi was seated beside Pascal and the VP - sales and Marketing, Tim, opposite Kunal. Kunal was beside Merchandise director - Vivienne and CFO - Dominic.

Pascal smiled across at everyone , especially at Kunal. Conversations began from small talk and later progressed to business talk . Pascal made it clear, that they are there to work closely with Kunal's team for the new revamped store and gave assurances, that they have taken into consideration on what Kunal had said during the meeting and they fully agree and will support in all ways to make this relationship grow in terms of sales and profitability. Kunal listened , nodded , smiled and spoke where and when required in a soft tone but was firm.

There was a cause for celebration after that. Champagne flowed in and a toast made for a continued successful partnership.

The atmosphere was more relaxed once the disappearance of the unease and hostility, now with casual conversation about economic , social and financial issues , current affairs that was making news.

Vivienne , was smiling at Kunal with obvious admiriation. Kunal turned sideways to give his full attention to her with a bent head with whatever she was whispering softly into his ears!

Seeing this, Siddhi gulped her champagne swiftly, feeling a sharp pierce of jealously going through her body.

Starters was served and Kunal was laughing at something that woman said .It was a round table . It looked cozy but at that moment she wanted to know what that she said for Kunal to smile so bloody amusingly. Did he have to pay so much attention to that woman who was obviously talking nothing remotely close to business.

Main course was served and everyone was still talking and eating in that relaxed manner and Siddhi was drinking the wine being topped totally unaware that Kunal was watching her when she laughed at something Pascal said.

She looked very beautiful with her hair , let down her shoulders and the two diamond drops earrings. So sweet , simple but elegant and he didn't like the way the men were openly admiring her. She had an ethereal beauty around her and he could not really blame the guys falling for it.

While she was talking to Pascal, Kunal noticed how the other men were looking at her. Once she finished the conversation with one, the other one wanted her attention. They were all in queue waiting for their turn to talk to her!

She never smiled at him like this ever since they met again. They were always at loggerheads.

As the meal came to end after some time, the guys went out for a smoke, and Vivienne went to the ladies to powder her nose which had become red after the attention bestowed upon by Kunal .!

"Are you planning to get drunk..hmm?" Kunal asked Siddhi when only the two of them were left at the now deserted table, looking at Siddhi disapprovingly.

"I am working on it" Siddhi retaliated!

"I would advise you to stop it as you don't seem to have a hang of it" Kunal said bluntly looking at her directly.

"Really and how would you know that? Siddhi asked thinly irritated that once again he was right. She had not head of alcohol.

"By the way you are gulping down...you are supposed to sip, not gulp down as if you are thirsty for water. Here drink some mineral water" Kunal and poured the drink into a glass for her.

"Dont patronize me and stop treating me like a kid." Siddhi warned softly. She didn't want to make a scene and provide entertainment for the other diners who took a thrill in eavesdropping in other diners' conversation...especially when both of them looked like preparing for a battle.

"I am only advising what's best for you and asking you to slow down and go easy on the wine" Kunal said a little sharply.

"You don't have to worry about me. Just take care of Vivienne . Looks like she needs it more than I do. " siddhi said tarly before she could pull back those words.

"What do you mean? Kunal eyes narrowed...

"Nothing. What I meant was both of you seems to have lots to talk about and the last thing you need to do is worry about my alcohol consumption. I say you have your hands full at the moment. "Siddhi shrugged and drank more wine.

"You are jealous!" Kunal smiled as realization dawned ..

"Me ? Jealouse? You must be out of your mind. No , Kunal I assure you I am 100% sure...no...no I am 101% sure, that I am not in the least bit jealous. Why would I be? I am not your wife, your girlfriend. I am just an employee and what you do with other women, I am least bothered. Frankly , Kunal I don't give a damn. "Siddhi threw back at him.

He was damn right! Yes she was jealous of them. She could not bear to look at them being so close and that woman gazing at with a look of wonder and Kunal too was all ears and eyes for that wretched woman. That woman hardly smiled at Siddhi. She felt as if he had betrayed what they had...what did they have? Nothing. Gone with the wind!

Wrong Siddhi. They had a daughter, by the name of Shika. A little girl made from the flesh and blood of Kunal and Siddhi. It was Kunal who impregnated his seed into Siddhi' womb. His baby and he gave that child to her...that was the bond that will tie time for eternity. A lifetime. An unbreakable bond. Siddhi you have to tell him tonight! With that thought, Siddhi gulped down more wine for some needed courage..fully aware that he was watching her with disapproval contempt clearly written across his face. But she didn't care. She was not drunk that she could not walk...she just needed to numb her senses a bit...needed the dutch courage , whatever it was.

"Shall we go to a club for some music " asked the Pascal when they rejoined the table...

"Sorry, Pasacal I have to decline the offer. Siddhi and I have a mid morning meeting and we have to go through some documents tonight" Kunal refused politely with regret

Vivienne who came back from the powder room just then, was clearly very disappointed that they were leaving and she glared at Siddhi as if she was the cause of the Kunal's refusal.

For once, she was thankful of what Kunal did. She was so tired from the trip, the meeting and now the dinner. She just want to go back and sleep...but before that she must tell him about Shika.

Finally everyone parted way, with once again Pascal assuring Kunal all is well and his team in Singapore will get on to to work Kunal's team soon for the day to day business and of course the relaunch of the stores. He was too smart to miss such a golden opportunity.

Siddhi was quiet on the drive back. She felt a bit light headed...the wine was working its magic...and she dozed off...she wanted to close her eyes for a while...

Kunal was sitting on the other corner end...there was a gap between them. He glanced at the woman at the other corner and her face was turned sideways towards the windows and he observed , her eye lids were closed...he wanted to pull her to him and hold her closer . But he didn't want to wake her .

Finally they arrived where Kunal apartment was.

Siddhi didn't stir when Kunal gently shook her. Kunal walked around the car and swept Siddhi gently into his arms. For once she didn't fight like a wild cat. She would have if she had been awake, he thought to himself. He carried her across the lift foyer and the security guards at the counter were smiling at Kunal as if he did this sort of thing everytime!

Her head was resting on one of his shoulder while he held her in his arms and the lift rode to the top floor of his apartment. The chauffeur already warned the staff of Kunal's arrival and the staff were ready for him when he arrived with Siddhi in his arms.

While he took the stairs to her room, Siddhi stirred in his arms and muttered something drowsily He laid her gently on her bed...and then suddenly Siddhi opened her eyes and focussed on him . He could not look away for she was looking at him in daze. He moved away...

"Kunal...dont go...stay please stay with me tonight please..." .and she entwined her arms around his neck...forcing Kunal to fall onto the bed with her on top of her.

"Siddhi.. you are not in the right..." Kunal was saying but could not finish as she was raining kisses on his face...this has to stop. He never imagined in his wildest moment of the seduction plan that he had conceived earlier, that he would be saying to himself to stop.! The plan was not for her to get drunk!

It didn't seemed right to make love to a woman who is intoxicated and was not aware of her senses. He wanted her to be fully aware of him when he took her...want her to remember how it was with them in the past. Raw passion, He wanted to see that...but not like this...this is not right .

"Siddhi, No... stop...we cant do this...you need to sleep." Kunal said gently and prised her arms away...

" You..dont want me..? Siddhi said with a hurt expression which pulled at his heart string. Dammit , he didn't want to feel any pity for her but this woman even when drunk can make him forget his principles..she had the look of innocence on her face...melancholy...as if her lover rejected her..as if he would! But not today...he could not take what she was offering.

He stood up slowly with relunctance , turned around with his back to her..."Its getting late, we will talk tomorrow morning..." He turned round to see if she was listening but she seems to have drifted off to sleep.

He walked towards the bed and looked at her...she looked so beautiful...lying on the bed so peacefully. He slowly bent down and took off her shoes. He thought of removing her clothings...but then he thought what if he changed his mind seeing her all naked...can he control himself?

On second thoughts, he concluded it would be better to just leave her just like this as he cannot save him from himself where it concerns Siddhi.! He just didn't trust himself. He didn't want to take advantage of her in this condition. She needs to be sober! And left her n her dress.

He stood over the bed, watching her for a long time. Well, Kunal, not today but soon. They still have a few more days left before they leave Hongkong. One way or another, he will find a way to have some time alone with her as he planned. He didn't expect her to be drunk! Going to the party was not a good idea..well too late crying over spilled milk.

He was just turning to leave the room but froze to the spot when he heard Siddhi rambling in her sleep state mode...or should he say" intoxicated mode" " Baby...Baby..no no...please please...dont hate me...I am so sorry...I will never give you up...You are mine..Just mine..I cant share you...I love you...please baby...dont be angry. Come back...to me...dont hate me..."

Kunala stood still as if someone just shot him. What the hell????? She was calling out to her lover boy! This woman could not erase her lover's even when she was pissed drunk!

Only moments ago she was clinging to him and begging him to take her...and now...and now, now he is all forgotten , pushed back from her thoughts but asking for forgiveness from her lover and declaring her love! Why this two timing...little...!!!!

He was fuming with madness. Here he was thinking of not taking advantage of her at this state and there she is calling out her lover and begging him not to hate her!

He walked furiously to the bed and stood beside her. She was still rambling incoherently something. He had to wake her up. He detested hearing her cry for her lover!

"Wake up! Siddhi!" He shook her up roughly with anger.

She was like a rag doll in his hands . Her head wobbling from side to side as if she had no neck. She was now beyond any sense of awareness, engulfed in a different space. Her ramblings too stopped.

But Kunal had heard enough of it to make him extremely mad. He controlled himself and stopped shaking her. He looked at her, his breaths coming hard and heavy and he briskly laid her back on the bed, before he was tempted to wake her again. This woman brought caveman behaviour from him. She was his .His alone. And he will not share her with anyone. He wanted to wring her neck!

Abruptly he walked out of the room and descended the stairs to the living room area where there was a bar where he kept his alcohol.

He shrugged out of his jacket and unknotted his tie and the first few buttons of his shirt.so roughly that the buttons gave way and flew off... What he needed was a stiff drink. What he planned has gone all wrong in mere few seconds, he thought while pouring himself a whisky.

He took a gulp of it and let the fiery drink go down his throat. Siddhi was amazing! She wanted him to make love to her and at the same time , asking her boyfriend to forgive her and not hate her...and all the other stuff. She was very loyal to him in mind and soul even in the drunken stupor state. What dedication!

Did she even know it was him? But she said his name "Kunal" clearly.!

His hand tightened around the glass, when he recollected the moment where she was displaying the act of hurt on his refusal to take what she offered and the next moment she calling out her lover!

He flung the glass across the hall in anger and frustration and betrayal...! It was obvious that she loved this man. Dont know why it hurt him so much when he didn't want any emotional attachment with her. All he wanted was to sate himself into her body and enjoy the pleasures...but where it comes to Siddhi...he somehow felt that he wanted her mind, body , soul to be all about him. He wanted total possession of her. No other man. And even after the last three years , he could not get her out of his mind. Yes, he was successful, rich and could have anything and anyone...but not Siddhi. She was the one who got away from him and he wanted her badly after seeing her. He just used work to hide everything.

But deep down it has been always Siddhi. And that's why it hurt so much that she was crying out for another man.! She has moved on. Maybe he should too? No, not till he see this man who has successfully made Siddhi forget about him. He wont rest till he finds out about this man who has kept Siddhi preoccupied with his thoughts without him being there physically. This "Baby" guy had so much power over her! He curiosity now had been aroused. He wanted to see this man in person. See what he had, that he doesn't .

With that last thought, he went to his room to retire for the night.

"Oh , god ouch..." Siddhi slowly awakened to the morning light that came through the curtains...and she opened her eyes with great difficulty.

She slowly came to her senses...and took in the surroundings. Last thing she knew she sat beside Kunal in the car...and after that all was blank. God...all the talk about her being sober and challenging Kunal...she felt so embarrassed. She was really knocked out of her senses.! Dear god, what must he be thinking of her...and her plan to tell him about Shika. Great Siddhi. Just great. You just had to go and get drunk didn't you.She admonished herself.

She felt uncomfortable. She looked down and realized that she was still wearing her black dress!

Gosh! Kunal must have brought her to this room ...or was it his servants! She bolted from her bed and rushed to the ensuite bathroom. She splashed cold water on her face...

She got out of her clothings swiftly and took a cold shower to wake her to full senses...

She checked her time. It was close to noon...She slept through the morning and lunchtime. ! OMG, there was a meeting downtown at 2 p.m

She quickly changed into a business attire..and went downstairs to look for Kunal.

"Mr Chopra left earlier for a meeting in the morning.He said to tell you to meet him at 2 p.m " his manservant informed him.

She ate a something like a brunch they prepared for her. While she was eating, she realized that she never called her child the night. Where was her phone...

She dugged into her handbag and found the phone There were lots of missed calls from Chantelle ...and there was some messages . She had put it on a silence mode at dinner.

What she saw, made her freeze and turned her face to a palor of almost white.! Her daughter had an accident in a the neighbour's house. She tumbled down on a flight of stairs and was rushed to hospital at night.

"Oh no, no no no...of please god...! Siddhi cried loudly, making the servants jump and rush around her with worried frowns and concerns.

"Madam, are you alright"? asked the maid who served her the food.

Siddhi shook her head , her heart pounding and with shaky fingers called Chantelle.

"Chantelle, chantelle, my Shika...I am sorry, my phone was on silent mode...how is my baby..tell me please my Shika is alright...oh please tell me she is ok..." Siddhi wailed, giving no time for Chantelle to talk.

"Siddhi,please...please...I am sorry. It was all my fault. I took her out to my friends place. They were all playing upstairs...and we were just going down the stairs with her, when she wriggled out of my hand to ran after the other kid and tripped and fell and tumbled on the stairs...It happened right before my eyes...She took a bad falling on the stairs...we took her to the hospital ...Siddhi I am sorry..."

"Will you please tell me how is she...where is she now...? Siddhi said, with tears streaming down her eyes..."Please tell me she is okay...please chantelle...tell me my baby girl is fine!!" Siddhi cried again, clutching her mobile feverishly.

"She is sleeping now after taking some medication.. Thankfully there was no concussion...as the floor was carpeted..but she had a taken a bad fall...Siddhi...she has some brusies on her body...Please come back soon...she was crying out for you...please. you need to come back...I would not know how to handle her..the little poppet is crying in pain..and for you...this is my fault.I am so sorry Siddhi. Very Sorry. .I just took my eyes for a moment and it happened so fast.."Chantelle was crying too.

Siddhi wiped away her tears." I am coming there as soon as possible Chantelle. I should have never gone on this trip. Its my fault for leaving her. Chantelle don't blame yourself. If anyone is to be blamed its me. I am going to fly out there soon...you call me if there is anything...ok anything..." Siddhi said and cut the line

Her passport was with Kunal's security. Damn! She had to fly back on her own.. She called him...but he was not available as his mobile was switched off...he must be in a meeting. She messaged him ...and waited .

"Kunal, sorry to disturb you but I need to go home right away. Can I have my passport please."

Siddhi was pacing the room up and down. Five minutes and still no reply. She couldn't wait any longer. Her baby needs her now! She must go!

She called the driver and asked her to take her to where Kunal was having his meeting.

She arrived at the destination in twenty minutes. She told the receptionist that she is Kunal's assistant and needed to speak to him urgently.

The girl saw that Siddhi was quite agitated. She told her to take a seat and she would call the secretary...

A few agonizing minutes later, a woman who appeared to be in her early forties, walked into the room and met Siddhi

"Sorry, Miss Malik, we have strict instruction not to interrupt the meeting. If you could wait just another half an hour..." She said with sympathy.

"You don't understand, I really have to speak to him. It will only take a couple of minutes. Please ask him to come out to see me, please..." Siddhi pleaded with the woman for some understanding.

The woman looked very uncomfortable for she could assess that this seemed more personal than professional but it was a high profile meeting. Even she was a little apprehensive to go in to interrupt..but clearly this was a different case.

"I am really sorry but I can't..." The woman said apologetically.

"Please you must! This is an emergency. I need to speak with him" Siddhi begged, and this time she clutched the woman's arms in desperation!

"Alright, Miss Malik...I will go in to see what I can do...please ,have a seat.." The woman soothed her.

Siddhi was relived to hear that assurance. Meantime she messaged him again...and still no reply!

The woman came back fast with defeated face and Siddhi knew that Kunal refused to see her!

"I am sorry Miss Malik. But Mr Kunal Chopra said he will see you in a couple hours of time at the next meeting. They are at a high level discussion. He said you will understand" She finished.

It was no use. ! Kunal was being very mean,cruel and doing this on purpose! God know why? There was only one way to do this. Her child was more important and to hell with everything! She just didn't care anymore! She was going to gate crash the meeting !

She knew the meeting was somewhere inside the closed doors which the woman used a security code access. She stood up on the pretext to leave but didn't . As soon as the woman pressed in the security code...Siddhi made a mental calculation to reach there before the door closed.

She ran on legs as fast as she could before the door closed and she took the woman by surprise.

"My god,.what the ..." the woman cried in alarm

"Don't! ...just don't stop me...please..." She said and walked and ran at the same time..not bothering to wait for her reply or watch the people along the way , staring at her in open mouth surprise.

She just turned here and there and finally found the large meeting room . It was a full glass panelled room and she could see Kunal sitting there at the head of the table.

There were close to more than ten people in the room

She was fuming in anger for this man's refusal to answer her phone call, messages and downright refusal to meet her! He made do this...Well, she just have to show him and tell him she is not amused at all and he will see her even if he doesn't want to.

She tapped on the glass door a little sharply. Everyone looked up and Kunal looked up at her in surprise and irritation.

By then the woman secretary, now hot and flushed was also behind her but she could not stop her as Siddhi was already almost inside the room..

Siddhi opened the door..." Excuse me everyone , I am sorry to disturb the meeting but I need to speak to Mr Kunal Chopra " Siddhi said aloud to everyone

" Siddhi, please wait outside. I will be there later" Kunal said tersely with disapproval .

Everyone was so silent in the room..

"No, I will not. I want my passport right now. I have to go home" Siddhi grounded out firmly..

"Gentlemen, excuse me" Kunal stood up and came forward for he did want both to be provide entertainment to the now ever so eager people .. He grabbed her arm and pulled her forcefully with him.

He marched her to another vacant smaller meeting room.. He closed the room. And folded his arms across his chest

"What the bloody hell is wrong with you crashing in the meeting asking for your passport? He hissed harshly.

"My baby is sick" Siddhi said

Kunal stared at her blankly with no flicker of emotion. In fact he nostrils flared at the mention of "Baby"!

" I don't give a damn if your boyfriend is sick or not . You better learn to keep your personal life away from your professional. I will not tolerate this behaviour. And don't you ever interrupt my meetings like the way you did just now." Kunal warned and turned to leave the room.

"Not my boyfriend! Its my baby daughter dammit! She is hurt and is now lying in the hospital! Siddhi screamed back at him. She had enough of this nonsense of his baseless assumption.!

There was complete silence. Kunal looked at her with a dumbfounded expression. He was clearly shocked at her outburst!

"What ? Come again? Your daughter? You have a daughter? " Kunal exclaimed harshly, his deep eyes glinting dangerously.

"Yes, I have a daughter" Siddhi replied and sighed. She was exhausted of continuing with this charade.

Kunal shook his head as if he didn't quite believe what he just heard..."But your record shows.."

"Nothing. I know ...No one in the office knows that i have a child except Isabelle " Siddhi filled in the gap.

Kunal could not believe what he just heard. She had a child from another man.! He was gathering all the informations she was feeding him into his head...He just could not take all this in..he thought he had her figured out but she just delivered him a bombshell which he would not have guessed in a million years. . Added to the already burning fuel of the events of yesterday, further anger grew within him...she lost his child but successfully conceived and delivered full term another man's child! This was not fair!

It hurt him in a way he could not explain...it cut him into pieces of her being intimate with another man and worse bore him a child too. How could she do it?

The child must be one year or two years old...and without thinking,

"How old is she?" Kunal asked, with a deadpan expression and his heart was beating fast.. He wanted to know how soon she became pregnant...he hated her at this moment. He wanted to shake her. Not only this Baby man was successful in winning Siddhi's love but they had a child together.! .

"Well, she will be three in a couple of weeks time" Siddhi said looking straight into his eyes. No point hiding the truth anymore. He will know sooner or later

"Three in couple of weeks time?"Kunal repeated after her and gaped in astonishment...and he was doing a mental calculation...and his eyes grew larger as realization dawned upon him but he still rebelled against it for it was not possible...no no this is not possible.

"That is not possible..how could she be three? She cant be.! At that time you were pregnant with my child and you miscarried" Kunal informed her but something was not right here...

"I didn't miscarry" Siddhi admitted, still looking at him without her eyes wavering from him. Her eyes were giving him the unspoken message. The truth?

"What! What are you talking about" Kunal exclaimed was now running on of his hands into his hair...he was clearly visibly now disturbed..." You miscarried , you said so , the last time I saw you and you showed me the documents...if you didn't miscarry, then what " Kunal looked at her puzzled.

"I lied" Siddhi said simply and flushed with embarassement.

"You lied.? You lied...you lied that you miscarried...that means she is " Kunal grabbed her arms painfully ...

"Your daughter. She is your daughter."Siddhi finished , rigid with tension with perspiration on her brow.

Kunal took a deep breath...and his hold on her tightened even more painfully. A red mist of rage was burning inside him ,appalled by her revelation. He could not get over the shock that she could have concealed this vital information. But just because she said,it doesn't mean the true. No way it could be his kid! She was up to something...

"I don't believe you...you are lying." Kunal release his breath in a sharp exhalation

"She is your baby Kunal. Believe what you want, that is the truth! She is yours Kunal. Your baby .! I don't care now... All I care now is my little baby is hurt and she is in hospital and I want my passport back. I am going to take the next plane out . Give me back my passport ! Siddhi wept, the tears rolling down her cheeks unchecked.

" Be quiet! And no you will not go alone.! .You think I will let you leave here alone after what you just said? We will go together. I want to see her for myself to see if she is really mine.. I want a DNA test.. I am not taking your word for it" Kunal bit out the words acidly, his face showing disbelief.. He was not able to digest it just yet..He need to see the child to believe. He cannot trust this woman at all. How could she lie about this...

"You do whatever you want. But I want to go home now to my daughter" Siddhi hiccupped.

" You better count your lucky stars that we are in a public place or otherwise, I don't know what I would have done...and you better pray she is not my daughter...and don't try to foist another man's child on me for a free meal ticker for both of you. I have seen this type of cases when the women find ways to trap a man because he is rich" Kunal said hurtfully..not convince that this child could be his.

"I would not touch your money, even if we starve to death! Siddhi hissed back..." You think that I will pass another man's child as yours...makes me think that I made the right decision by not telling you about her existence. " Siddhi said spitefully. Angry that he could think that she was after his money.

" Shut up ! Just shut up! Listen to yourself. You are the one spinning all the lies and you expect me to believe that she is mine! If she is mine, Siddhi.. good .god...I cant believe that you would stoop to such level. All this have to wait...we cant discuss here...by god, you have a lot to answer...come on.. " he grabbed her hand and pulled along with him, uncaring of the stares they were receiving from the onlookers when they outside the corridors of the meeting rooms.!

"Gentlemen, sorry we have to postpone the meeting. We will resume it on another day.I have an emergency, a family issue to settle. So if you will all excuse me..." He informed all in the that room for the sake of courtesy and could be bothered for their reply and left the room .

He held her tightly to him as they marched out of the building.to meet the drive, as if she would run away.

"Kunal..." She tried to explain...but he whipped his head and told her furiously " Be quiet! Dont even attempt to talk! I could kill you for this.!"

He instructed the driver to take them to the airport. He pushed her into the car unceremoniously and made a few calls on the way.

Within minutes they reached the airport to where his private jet was waiting. They were greeted by the pilot and the cabin crew.

Kunal shrugged off his jacked and took off his tie. He loosened his shirt buttons. His hair was dishevelled where his hands were running through.

He made her sit opposite him and looked at her angrily. His brilliant eyes shimmered with fireworks at the news of being told he was a father to a almost three year daughter and that she is now injured and in hospital...

He leaned closer to her...he was very very furious...and he looked at her with contempt with blood shot eyes.

"If what you say is true, I will never ever forgive you for this. You will pay for this Siddhi.. Oh yes, You will pay for this dearly..." Kunal promised with a cold expression and for the first time, she was so scared of what he might do...after seeing his daughter for he will know she is an exact replica, image of him, where no DNA was needed.

Phew! That was one of the longest update I have ever done! I try to make up for the delay in packing too much in one chapter.

Hope you guys enjoy reading it...I dare not say when will be my next update..

Thank you for your patience and understanding and I leave you here with the Boss song

http://youtu.be/xtMhtMc1GW8