(Prisha's POV)

In next morning, as I walked alongside Bali Kaka through the bustling corridors of our corporate headquarters, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. We started with a tour of the reception area. Next, we headed to the conference room, where Bali Kaka showed me the large table where important meetings took place. Today marked the beginning of my active involvement in the family business, and I was eager to see the workspace prepared for me.

"Your cabin is just ahead, Prisha beta," Bali Kaka announced, his voice tinged with pride.

We stopped in front of a sleek wooden door with a polished nameplate bearing my name. However, my attention was immediately drawn to the adjacent door, which, to my astonishment, displayed Vedant's name.

"Kaka, why does Vedant have a cabin here?" I inquired, unable to mask my surprise.

Bali Kaka's expression tightened slightly, a flicker of disapproval crossing his features.

"Ketan decided to assign him a cabin," he explained.

"Vedant has been performing commendably in his duties, and Ketan Baba believes he has earned this space." His tone was measured, but I sensed an undercurrent of reluctance.

Noting his subtle displeasure, I pressed further, "Kaka, do you have reservations about Vedant?"

He hesitated for a moment before replying, "It's not my place to say, beta. But I advise caution."

With that, he opened the door to my cabin, allowing me to step inside. The space was impressive—a spacious hall furnished with contemporary designs, leading to an attached private room intended for rest. The decor exuded professionalism with a touch of comfort, featuring a large wooden desk positioned perpendicular to a window that offered a panoramic view of the city. Behind the desk, built-in bookshelves lined the wall, and a cozy seating area with a plush sofa and coffee table occupied one corner. The attached room included a compact yet elegant restroom, complete with modern fixtures.

As I familiarized myself with the cabin, arranging personal items and organizing the desk, my thoughts kept drifting back to Vedant's unexpected proximity. His presence next door was unsettling.

After settling in, I sat at my desk, reviewing the agenda for the upcoming meetings.

(Author POV)

The morning sun cast a warm glow over the Solanki mansion as key members of the family and their associates gathered in the meeting hall. Jitendra Solanki sat at the head of the table, exuding authority. To his right, Ketan reviewed some documents, while Prisha appeared deep in thought. Bali and his team members were also present, awaiting the arrival of Vedant, who had been tasked with escorting a significant guest: Chief Gagar, a prominent politician.

The room's atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and tension. The ticking of the ornate clock on the wall seemed louder than usual. Just as the impatience began to mount, the double doors swung open. Vedant entered, his posture confident, followed closely by Chief Gagar. The chief's presence commanded respect, and the room fell into a hushed silence.

Chief Gagar took the seat reserved for him near Jitendra. Observing this, Jitendra gave a subtle nod to Vedant, indicating he should also sit. Such acknowledgment was rare, and Vedant accepted the gesture, taking a seat beside Ketan.

Ketan initiated the discussion, his tone serious. "We've encountered issues with our package deliveries at the border. The state police intercepted our last shipment."

Chief Gagar nodded thoughtfully. "I'm aware of the situation. Rest assured, measures are being implemented to prevent such incidents. Your operations will proceed without further hindrance."

The conversation then shifted to future endeavors. Chief Gagar leaned forward, his tone earnest. "There's an upcoming mission that requires your expertise and investment, Jitendra. Our objective is to dismantle a significant mafia network that's been a thorn in our side."

Vedant listened intently; curiosity piqued. The mention of a formidable mafia intrigued him, but he remained silent, absorbing the information.

Jitendra glanced at Prisha, then back at Gagar. "I'm interested. Moreover, Prisha will be actively involved in this mission. It's time for her to take on more responsibility within our operations."

Prisha's eyes sparkled with excitement at the prospect of contributing to such a pivotal mission. Vedant noted her enthusiasm, filing away his observations for future consideration.

The meeting continued, delving into strategic details and resource allocations. Throughout, Vedant remained attentive, processing the information and considering the implications of the upcoming mission. The alliance between the Solanki family and Chief Gagar signified a pivotal move in the intricate dance of power and influence.

As the discussions drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of purpose in the room.

As the grand doors of the Solanki mansion closed behind Chief Gagar's departure, Jitendra Solanki remained seated at the head of the opulent conference table. His sharp gaze swept over the assembled team, signaling them to stay. The room settled into a hushed anticipation.​

"Chief Gagar is pivotal for our forthcoming endeavors," Jitendra began, his voice resonant with authority. "As one of the most influential politicians, his support can significantly elevate the Solanki empire's stature."​

He then turned his attention to Prisha and Vedant. "From this point forward, you two will collaborate closely on assignments. Ketan will provide the necessary details."​

Prisha's jaw tightened, a flicker of irritation crossing her features. The prospect of working alongside Vedant was far from appealing, but she chose to remain silent, concealing her displeasure behind a composed facade.​

Jitendra's gaze shifted to Bali. "Bali, I want you to keep a vigilant eye on Chief Gagar. Ensure our interests are safeguarded."​

Bali nodded, understanding the gravity of the directive.​

With his instructions delivered, Jitendra rose, signaling the conclusion of the meeting.