TRISHA
I stepped through the ornate gates of the Shergill mansion, my heart pounding. The lavish exterior was adorned with twinkling lights and colorful flower arrangements, all in preparation for the Director’s wedding. Ayaan Shergill was getting married to the Deputy CM’s daughter, Meher Walia tomorrow.
Just yesterday, I received an unexpected call from Sudesh about this assignment. After wrapping up my last mission – giving protection to a VIP in Europe, the last thing I expected was to be summoned back to Mumbai by Director Ayaan himself. And here I was, anxious and intrigued with what my next mission would be.
A smiling older man in a crisp suit greeted me.
“You must be Trisha. Ayaan and Kailash were expecting you.”
“Hello, and you are?”
“Bhaskar, Kailash Shergill’s assistant. You can call me Bhaskar uncle as everyone else does,” he replied. “The Haldi ceremony hasn't begun yet. Ayaan will see you shortly in his study room. Right through there.” He gestured towards an imposing wooden door.
I thanked him, trying to appear calm and professional despite my nerves. Taking a steadying breath, I turned the handle and entered the study.
The spacious room was dominated by a large leather chair which someone was already occupying, the chair’s back facing me. Assuming Ayaan was already present, I stood at stiff attention. “Hello Director, it's nice to meet you again.”
But when the chair swiveled around, I froze. Because it wasn't Ayaan in that seat.
It was Krish.