PART 4
It has been six long months since the marriage happened. Now, Astha is living in Mumbai. She can clearly visualise the happenings on that day. Astha convinced everyone in their house to agree for Rahul's marriage with his lover. Even his lover's parents were convinced by her. Their marriage was held at the same mandap which was decorated for her.
The very next day, Rahul with his newly wedded wife, flew back to Mumbai. Even though he was far away, he was in contact with Astha. He was feeling guilty for his acts. But, Astha convinced him saying, it was of no fault of his. But, adamantly, Rahul wanted himself to search for a groom suitable for Astha.
Not able to agree for the marriage, Astha disagreed. On his constant pestering, Astha is now in Mumbai working in a construction company as a Personal Secretary for the past four months. The owner is a kind-hearted person who is a nice friend of Rahul. He treats Astha as his own daughter. Astha too calls him fondly as Vichu baba', his name being Vishwanathan.
Vishwanathan is a Tamilian by birth, but has shifted his base to Mumbai when he was young. He has a wife named Subadra. Their only son Vivek is in States with his wife. Vishwanathan and his wife were spending a life of void until Astha entered. At the very first meeting of Astha and Subadra, Astha felt a motherly figure in Subadra that she got along with her so soon.
One fine day, Astha was entering the company when she was stopped by a voice. "Astha!"
She turned to see who it is and found her colleague Shiney standing behind her.
Astha - What is the matter that you are here so soon? Haven't you the one who has taken leave for a month?
Shiney- Enough of your mocking. I thought of. But it's so boring that I couldn't resist myself from being here.
Astha- Acha. Enough. Now let's go inside so that we can start with our work.
Saying so, both walked inside. Astha worked for the whole day. It was like another day. As she was the P.A., she had lot of works to do. It is true that she is an Engineering graduate. But, after completing her Business Administration which made her fit for the job. Also, without forgetting her passion in buildings, she even completed her course in Interior Designing.
After completing her works, Astha went to MD's cabin to bid him a bye. Hearing a talk, she thought of not disturbing and gently knocked the door after the sound subsided.
Listening a faint "Come in", she entered the cabin with a warm "Good afternoon Sir". An old man in his early sixties with half bald head and specs in his nose. He looked so simple yet confident.
MD- What is the need for saying Sir when we are alone beti? Don't you think me as your father?
Astha- Nahi Sir. Professional and personal life should not be confused. If met outside and I addressed you as Sir, I will be an offender. But, it's my respect for you as my MD which makes me call you as Sir
MD- And that's why I like you so much. He smiled lightly and then continued.
MD- I thought of calling you. But, before that, here you are. In front of me.
Astha- Is there a problem, Sir? (With anxious clearly evident in her voice)
MD- Nothing of that sort, dear. You know that Vijay is in America and it has been so long since I met him. So, I am thinking of staying with him for a few months. And also, his wife is pregnant. So, Subadra too wishes to be with them on that time.
Astha- (excitedly) It's a good news, Sir. It means, soon there will be a naughty prince or a princess to rule this company.
MD- Ya. May be. But, what I have to talk about is that I may shift there permanently.
Astha- WHAT??????
many of the readers have guessed the part correctly. 👏 In the next update, you will get to see the entry of Shlok... Comments and critices welcome...😊
