I woke up early as usual and completed my morning routine. After getting ready, I went to the office with my guards surrounding me. Everyone greeted me as usual, "Good morning, Mr. Raisinghania." I just gave them a curt nod and took the lift. After reaching my floor, I went inside my cabin and sat in my chair. Today, my new PA is joining, and if she is late, she will be fired on her very first day.

I need to change my PAs frequently as none of them have ever been capable enough to match my demand for perfection. They all have just tried to lure me with their looks or by wearing revealing clothes. I wanted them to focus on their work, but their focus was on seducing me. I fired my last PA for the same reason. Let's see how my new PA measures up.

I picked up the phone and dialed the line directly connected to the PA's office. A sweet voice answered, "This is Black Crown Industries, how may I help you?" I had heard this voice before, but where? I was lost in thought when I heard, "Hello?" she asked again, checking if someone was still on the line.

"In my cabin, Ms. Avleen," I said in my cold, commanding tone and hung up.

Moments later, there was a knock on the door. Without looking up from my laptop, I said, "Come in."

I heard the soft clink of a cup being placed on my desk. When I finally glanced up, anger and shock coursed through me. It was her.

"What are you doing here?" I demanded.

She met my gaze calmly. "Good morning, Sir. I am Avleen Kaur, your new PA."

"What? You?" I couldn't believe it. She was the same girl who bumped into me that day. The biggest problem was that I had kept thinking about her these past two days, and second, her clumsiness.

"Yes, me," she replied, her tone steady.

"You are fired. I hate mistakes, and you can't even walk properly," I snapped.

She looked angry but composed herself. "Sir, I may be clumsy in life, but at my work, I am perfect. Give me a chance, and I will be the best PA you've ever had."

Her confidence was unexpected, and she wasn't scared of me. That was something new. I considered her words for a moment. "Alright, you have a month to prove yourself worthy of this job."

She nodded, determination in her eyes. I glanced at the coffee she had brought and, as if understanding my questioning gaze on the cup, she explained, "I asked Miss Sharma about the kind of coffee you like."

I nodded and took a sip. It was exactly how I liked it. To be honest, it's the best coffee I have ever had.

"Miss Avleen, there are some documents in your cabin that need to be faxed. They are important. After that, come back and tell me about my schedule for today." I ordered her.

"Understood, Mr. Raisinghania." she replied and turned to leave.

As I watched Avleen leave, I couldn't help but notice the biggest distraction-her dressing sense. Today, she wore a white frock suit paired with heels and silver earrings, and of course, the constant noise from her anklets and bangles with each step. My usually quiet office building was becoming noisy, and it was only her first day.

I sighed, thinking that if she proved herself worthy in this one month, I might be able to bear the noise. As I pondered this, there was another knock on the door.

"Come in," I said.

Avleen entered, carrying a notepad and pen. She met my gaze directly, which never happened before until she came.

"Sir, your schedule for today," she began, listing the appointments and meetings efficiently. "You have a meeting with the board at 10 a.m., followed by a conference call with the overseas partners at 12 p.m. Lunch with Mr. Patel at 1 p.m., and a review meeting at 3 p.m."

"Prepare the meeting room for the board meeting," I instructed. "We have an hour."

She nodded and left, the sound of her anklets and bangles fading down the hallway. I was momentarily shocked. She was the first person who dared to look into my eyes straight. There was something different about her.

An hour later, we headed to the meeting room. The board members were already seated, and we began discussing the new project.

"Mr. Raisinghania, we need to finalize the budget and timelines for the new venture," one of the board members said.

"Indeed," I replied, glancing at Avleen who was taking notes. "We need to ensure that all projections are accurate and that we stay within our allocated budget."

Avleen's efficiency in taking notes and handling the meeting was impressive. She didn't miss a beat.

"Miss Avleen, make sure to follow up with the finance department on the budget breakdown," I instructed.

"Yes, Sir," she replied, making a note of it.

During the meeting, I couldn't help but notice how she managed to stay composed and focused, even under pressure. It was a rare quality.

The board meeting went smoothly, with all points discussed and decisions made efficiently. As we wrapped up, I noticed Avleen moving quickly to gather her notes. In her haste, she slipped. I was quick to react, reached out and caught her hand, preventing a fall. I couldn't help but think if falling is her favorite hobby.

"Thank you, Mr. Raisinghania," she said, her face flushed with embarrassment. I just steadied her and said in commanding tone, "Come to my cabin."

When Avleen came to my cabin afterward, I decided it was time to address her clumsiness directly.

"You need to work on your clumsiness," I said, my tone stern but not unkind.

Under her breath, she muttered, "Bada aaye mujhe gyaan dene wale."

"Did you say something?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

She smiled nervously, "Nope... nope, Mr. Raisinghania."

She turned and left quickly, and I was left in my office, shocked at myself. I had heard her comment, but for some reason, I hadn't reacted as harshly as I normally would. I never let anyone look me in the eyes, let alone insult me. If it had been anyone else, they would no longer exist in this world.

I let it slide because, despite her clumsiness, she was perfect at her job. Her efficiency and competence were exactly what I needed in a PA. This realization left me both curious and unsettled. Avleen Kaur was proving to be an intriguing enigma, one that I couldn't afford to ignore, but also one that I needed to keep in check. For now, I would tolerate her quirks, but only because her performance justified it.

After completing today's work, I was ready to go back home. As usual, my employees waited for me to leave before they even thought about heading home. I never told them they couldn't leave until I was done, but they had assumed it themselves, and frankly, I didn't care if they wanted to work longer hours.

Before leaving, I called Avleen in my cabin, and said, " Prepare well for tomorrow's meeting and You can leave now." She nodded and left.

I also left my cabin, and made my way to the lift, I noticed her heading towards the stairs instead. Frowning, I thought, Is she mad, going 60 floors down by stairs? But I didn't ask her anything. I just took the lift down, my guards following closely behind.

Once outside, I got into my black BMW and headed home. Upon reaching Raisinghania Mansion, I was greeted by my pet, a black jaguar named Lucifer. He was fiercely loyal, only listening to me. He had dealt with my enemies in the past, and I had watched him ravage them with a savage pleasure. Everyone feared Lucifer, just as they feared me. Even my bodyguards shivered at his menacing presence and killing gaze. No one dared look into his eyes.

Upon reaching Raisinghania Mansion, I was greeted by my pet, a black jaguar named Lucifer. He was fiercely loyal, only listening to me. He had dealt with my enemies in the past, and I had watched him ravage them with savage pleasure. Everyone feared Lucifer, just as they feared me. Even my bodyguards shivered at his menacing presence and killing gaze. No one dared look into his eyes.

As I walked into the living room, I found my family gathered there. My mother, Tara Raisinghania, looked up from her book and smiled warmly at me. My father, Vikram Raisinghania, was watching news while my younger sister, Aanya Raisinghania, and younger brother, Eklavya Raisinghania, were engaged in a lively conversation.

"Eshank, beta, come join us," Mom called, patting the seat beside her.

I nodded and took a seat, Lucifer lying down at my feet. Dad turned off the television and looked at me with a serious expression. "We were discussing your marriage," he began. "Pandit ji has found an auspicious time for the wedding. It's in a month."

I nodded, knowing this was a business marriage. Shweta was an arrogant and spoilt woman, only interested in money. She was perfect for the role my family needed her to play, but there was no love between us. This marriage was purely for business.

"Shweta will be a good match for you, Eshank," my father continued. "Her family's influence and our business interests will align perfectly."

My mother looked concerned but said nothing, her eyes reflecting a mixture of worry and acceptance. My sister, Aanya, sighed. "I just hope she doesn't try to boss me around. She is so arrogant."

Mom said gently scolding her, "Aanya, beta, esse baat karte hai kya? voh jaisi bhi hai prr teri hone wali bhabhi hai. You should respect her. (Eshika, dear, is this how should we talk? Whatever she is, she is your future sister-in -law.)

Aanya just rolled her eyes and said, "Maa, I didn't say anything wrong. She is like that and honestly, I don't like her at all."

Eklavya chuckled. "I feel the same way, Anu. As for bossing around, don't worry, With Bhai around, no one would dare."

I smiled faintly at their banter but remained silent. My mind was already thinking ahead to the tasks and challenges of tomorrow. After dinner, everyone in the family went to their respective rooms, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

I decided to head to the basement, a hidden part of my mansion. The door to the basement was concealed in the garden. I turned a statue in the garden to the right, and the hidden door opened. I entered with Lucifer by my side. I descended the stairs, my men guarding and standing at corners of each stair. Their heads bowed down as I moved forward.

Once inside, I was greeted by the rest of my loyal men. Those who had betrayed me were being brutally beaten by my loyalists. Their cries for mercy filled the air, and I reveled in the sound of their pleading.

"Please, Mr. Raisinghania! Forgive us!" one of them begged, blood trickling from his mouth.

Another screamed, "I have a family, sir! Spare me, please!"

I watched them coldly, their desperation meaning nothing to me. "I don't believe in forgiveness," I said, my voice dripping with menace. "I believe in punishment. Those who betray me will go to hell."

I said, my voice full of killing intent, "Lucifer, come, your dinner is here." He approached with predatory grace. The men's pleas grew louder, their eyes wide with terror as Lucifer moved closer. Without hesitation, Lucifer pounced on them, his claws and teeth making quick work of their bodies. Their screams echoed in the basement, but none of my men showed any emotion. This was an everyday sight for them.

As I watched the carnage unfold with a smirk tugging on my lips, I felt a sense of satisfaction. Lucifer's muzzle was covered with blood. Lucifer was an extension of my will, dealing out justice to those who dared to betray me. This was the order of my world: loyalty rewarded; betrayal punished.

Once Lucifer was done, I turned to my men. "Dispose of the bodies," I ordered.

"Yes, Mr. Raisinghania," they replied in unison, moving quickly to carry out my command.

With the night's work done, I headed back upstairs with Lucifer. I went to my room with Lucifer following me. I took a shower and settled on the bed with my laptop. After working for a few hours, I fell asleep with Lucifer sleeping at the foot of my bed. Tomorrow is another new day, and I had no doubt that Avleen's clumsiness would test my patience, and I still had to evaluate her performance. Despite my cold exterior, something about her made me believe she would outshine herself.

I stirred awake when my alarm rang. Groggily, I turned it off and sat up, rubbing my eyes in an attempt to wake myself fully. I stood up and walked to my closet, choosing a white frock suit. With my clothes in hand, I headed to the bathroom. After a refreshing shower, I came out dressed and accessorized with silver earrings, anklets, and bangles. Slipping into my heels, I grabbed my bag and made my way to the living room.

I placed my bag on the couch and moved to the kitchen, where I started preparing breakfast for Angad and myself. As the parathas cooked, I also prepared lunch for Angad and stored it in the refrigerator.

Once breakfast was ready - parathas with curd and tea - I set the table in front of the couch. I headed to Angad's room and gently woke him up, "Angad, good morning. Wake up, putt."

"Good morning, Di," Angad mumbled, his voice still heavy with sleep.

"Putt, breakfast is ready," I said, helping him into his wheelchair. "I'll be out in a few minutes, Di," he replied.

I waited on the couch until he emerged from his room in fresh clothes, having already taken a bath. He wheeled himself to the table, and we began our breakfast.

As we ate, Angad's voice was full of love and support. "All the best, Di. I know you'll do amazing. Take care of yourself. Promise me you won't overexert yourself, okay?" He extended his pinky finger toward me.

Intertwining my pinky with his, I assured him, "I promise, Putt. I'll take care of myself."

"Angad, I've prepared lunch for you. It's in the refrigerator. Make sure to heat it up before you eat," I reminded him as we finished breakfast.

"Got it, Di. Don't worry about me. You focus on having a great day at work," he said with a reassuring smile.

After bidding him goodbye, I grabbed my bag and left the house. I took the metro to work, using the travel time to reflect on how independent Angad had become. Whether it was bathing or handling his personal needs, he always managed on his own. I knew he didn't want to be a burden to me, but how should I make him realize he isn't a burden; he is my little brother. He is my life.

The metro reached my stop, and I stepped out, walking the ten minutes to Black Crown Industries. As I entered, I smiled and greeted everyone I passed, but no one replied. I muttered to myself, "Yahan insaan nahin robot kaam karte hain. Koi baat hi nahi karta, naa smile karta hai. Employees aise hai toh boss kaisa hoga?"

I took the stairs up to the 60th floor-my heart pounding not just from the climb but from anticipation. I greeted the receptionist, Tina Sharma, with a bright "Good morning!" and a smile. She just nodded in response.

Showing her my offer letter, I said, "I'm the new PA for Mr. Eshank Raisinghania. Could you tell me where my cabin is?"

Tina pointed me in the right direction. Just as I was about to leave, I turned back and asked, "Miss Sharma, what kind of coffee does Mr. Raisinghania like?"

"Black coffee, sugarless, without milk," she replied curtly.

I went to my cabin, arranging my things neatly on the desk. I headed to the pantry to prepare his coffee. Just as I returned to my cabin, the intercom rang.

"This is Black Crown Industries. How may I help you?" I said.

There was no reply, so I said, "Hello?"

A cold voice responded, "In my cabin, Ms. Avleen," before abruptly hanging up.

Taking a deep breath, I picked up the coffee and walked to his cabin, knocking softly.

"Come in," came the reply.

I entered and placed the coffee mug on the table. When I looked up, I was stunned. It was him-the handsome yet arrogant man I had bumped into on the interview day. He was my boss. This was not good. I knew I was in trouble.

As expected, he demanded why I am here? I calmly told him that I am his PA. He literally said he would fire me. I was angry. How could he fire me without evaluating my work? I controlled my anger and said confidently, "Sir, I may be clumsy in life, but at my work, I am perfect. Give me a chance, and I will be the best PA you've ever had."

May be because of my confidence, he gave me a month to prove myself worthy of this job. I sighed in relief. When I saw him looking at the coffee mug suspiciously, "I asked Miss Sharma about the kind of coffee you like," I explained.

I think he liked the coffee as he took a few sips before finishing the coffee. Then he asked me to fax the document placed in my cabin and inform him about his schedule for today. I did as I was told. While I was informing him about his schedule I looked into his eyes straight. His emerald eyes were so captivating, I felt as if I was drowning into them. When I realized what stupid thoughts I was having, I mentally scolded myself and focused on my work.

He ordered me to prepare the meeting room for the board meeting. I left his cabin immediately and made my way to the meeting room. I went into the meeting room and checked the projectors and everything. I then put the important documents which were required for the meeting on the table, every copy of which would be given to the members before the meeting started.

I went back to my cabin and brought my notepad and pen so that I could make minutes of the meeting. One by one everyone came, and I distributed the copies of documents. Then, my boss, Mr. Raisinghania entered the meeting room, and everyone stood up and greeted him but he ever being a robot just took his seat and didn't even nod at them. How rude!

The meeting went smoothly and after everyone left, I was hastily collecting the stuff when my foot slipped but before I could fell, Mr. Raisinghania held my hand, and I just muttered him a quiet thank you and he summoned me in his office.

After collecting my stuff, I went to his cabin and as I came inside, he said sternly, " You need to work on your clumsiness."

"Bade aaye mujhe gyaan dene wale." I muttered under my breath. He is himself a robot and, is lecturing me to work on my clumsiness? He should first start behaving like a human rather than a robot then I can think about listening to his advice on my clumsiness. My clumsiness is my clumsiness, none of your clumsiness!

"Did you say something?" he asked raising an eyebrow. Shit! Did he hear me but if he did, he wouldn't be asking me about it. He must have buried me alive by now for my remark. Please God save me from this devil. I just prayed and replied to him smiling nervously, "Nope......nope, Mr. Raisinghania." I just turned and left his cabin hurriedly as if running for my dear life.

I took a deep breath and went to the finance department and collected the budget data for the new project. I gave Mr. Raisinghania those reports, and he told me to arrange a meeting with the finance department tomorrow. I nodded and left his cabin.

During break I texted Angad. Avleen: Angad, putt did you have your lunch?

Angad: Yes Di, I had my lunch. What about you?

Avleen: Just going to have it. Don't worry.

Angad: Okay di. Take care of yourself.

Avleen: You too.

After lunch, I started working again. By evening, I was done with my work when the intercom rang. I picked up the intercom, and Mr. Raisinghania ordered me to come into his cabin. I went and he told me to prepare well for tomorrow's meeting and I can leave now. Finally, after a hectic day at work, I can go back home. I gathered my stuff and went towards the stairs. After descending the stairs, I took a moment to catch my breath.

I left the building and crossed the road and walked back to the metro station. I took the metro and reached my stop. After getting down, I walked back to my apartment. I reached there and unlocked the door, and I was greeted by Angad who was reading something.

He smiled at me and asked, "How was your first day at work, Di."

"The work was fine but everyone there are just robots. Talking is too far, they don't even smile." I replied and Angad laughed hearing my description.

Angad and I settled at the dining table for dinner. I had prepared a simple meal-dal, roti, and some sabzi. As we started eating, Angad broke the comfortable silence.

"So, Di, how was your boss?" he asked, looking curious.

I rolled my eyes and sighed dramatically. "He's a robot, Putt. I'm not even joking. That man is too cold, like he's never heard of a smile."

Angad chuckled. "A robot, huh? Does he at least have some cool features, like laser eyes or a built-in espresso machine?"

I laughed at his teasing. "If only! No, he's just all about work, work, work. No small talk, no pleasantries. Just icy stares and commands. He even threatened to fire me on the first day for being clumsy!"

Angad's eyes widened. "Did you trip and fall in front of him?"

I nodded, smiling ruefully. "Yep, but I managed to save myself with some quick thinking and a lot of confidence. He gave me a month to prove myself."

"You're amazing, Di. He'll see that soon enough," Angad said, his tone filled with admiration.

"Thanks, Putt," I said, reaching out to ruffle his hair. "Now, enough about my robot boss. It's time for your medicines."

I fetched Angad's medicine box from the kitchen and handed him his pills. "Here you go, Putt. Don't forget to take them."

Angad made a face. "You know I hate these, Di."

"I know, but they keep you healthy. So, be a good boy and take them," I insisted, giving him a stern look.

"Fine," he grumbled, swallowing the pills with a glass of water. "Happy now?"

"Very," I said with a grin. "Now, let's get you to bed. You've had a long day too."

I wheeled Angad to his room and helped him into bed. As I tucked him in, he looked up at me with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, Di, are you going to turn into a robot too after working there for a while?"

I laughed softly. "I hope not. Someone has to stay human in that place, right?"

"Right," Angad agreed, smiling. "Goodnight, Di. Sweet dreams."

"Goodnight, Putt," I said, kissing his forehead. "Sleep tight."

I turned off the light and closed the door softly behind me. Heading to my own room, I reflected on the day. Despite the challenges and the robotic boss, I felt a strange sense of determination. I was going to prove myself, not just for my own sake, but for Angad too.

After a quick shower, I slipped into bed, exhaustion washing over me. I set my alarm for the next day, already mentally preparing for whatever challenges awaited me at Black Crown Industries. With thoughts of my cold, robotic boss and my warm, loving brother, I drifted off to sleep, hoping tomorrow would bring new opportunities to shine.

I hope you all like the chapter. Dm me on Instagram @writingsbymili. I would love to talk to you. Please do give your suggestions and opinions. Thank you, my lovely readers, for giving my book a chance.

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