Upon reaching the grand edifice, I found myself subtly lingering behind the group. A staff member quickly emerged to attend to our luggage, then vanished back into the building. Ashwin, leading the way, ushered me through the grand entrance and up to the office level. There, the prominent signage of "Sinha and Mathur Financial Global Solutions Pvt. Ltd." loomed before us. I was momentarily taken aback, realising the significant role Ashwin played within this esteemed company.
Crossing the threshold into the bustling office, we were met with a wave of activity. Several individuals came forward, extending warm greetings and presenting tokens of welcome. Ashwin stood tall among them, his voice resonating with both gratitude and authority as he addressed the crowd, "Thank you all for the warm welcome. Let's resume our duties; we have a crucial meeting on the agenda." His demeanour, both commanding and composed, effortlessly conveyed his leadership and the respect he garnered among his peers.
In a display of generosity, Ashwin announced, "I'll be covering today's lunch in the cafeteria. Consider it a small token of appreciation for your hard work. Please, take this time to relax and rejuvenate." This offer not only underscored his role as a leader but also highlighted his care for the team's welfare.
Meanwhile, I noticed Sharad Bhai subtly handing out money to several staff members, a gesture that spoke volumes about the office culture they fostered. Following this, Ashwin led me to his personal office, motioning for me to sit in his chair. Flattered by his thoughtfulness, I initially accepted, but the realisation of the chair's significance — a symbol of his leadership — made me respectfully decline. Opting for modesty, I chose a seat opposite his desk instead.
"Sir, I mean, Ashu," I hesitated, acknowledging the significance of his chair, "but thank you for being so considerate."
Ashwin's expression softened into a warm smile as he responded, "As my wife, you share in all aspects of my life, including this space." His words enveloped me in a sense of belonging and partnership, affirming my role in his professional realm.
Soon after, Ashwin excused himself to change into business attire, while Anjali Bhabhi and Krishna ventured to the cafeteria for some light refreshments. Ashwin outlined the lunch plans, proposing a meal at a favoured restaurant post-meeting.
Before departing, he paused, concern evident in his gaze, "You'll be alright here by yourself, won't you?" I nodded, my heart warmed by his care. With a reassuring glance, he left, allowing me a moment to acclimate to the surroundings on my own.
In those moments, my admiration for Ashwin grew; his adeptness at balancing professional duties with personal connections was remarkable, always ensuring everyone felt comfortable and valued.
When Anjali Bhabhi entered with Krishna in tow, the young boy wasted no time in seeking my attention, his small frame finding its way into my lap. "Auntie, look what I've got for you!" he chirped, his bright eyes shining with excitement as he presented the ice cream. The genuine warmth in his gesture melted my heart, prompting me to lightly pinch his cheek in a playful manner. "Thank you, Krishna," I responded, my voice laced with gratitude.
Anjali Bhabhi, ever attentive, gently shifted Krishna to another seat, where he eagerly began to nibble on his treats and fiddle with her mobile phone. With Krishna content, she directed her compassionate gaze towards me, her concern palpable as she inquired about my adjustment to the unfamiliar surroundings of this new city.
"Dolly, given that you're new to this city, please don't hesitate to reach out to me for anything. I'm here to assist you," Anjali Bhabhi offered with genuine kindness. I paused momentarily, grappling with the idea of sharing a personal concern.
"Bhabhi, my wardrobe is quite limited... I mean, I've brought only a few outfits with me," I admitted, a hint of discomfort evident in my voice. My scant clothing selection was a silent testament to my family's modest means, a detail I'd seldom disclosed.
Anjali Bhabhi's reaction was both swift and soothing. "Please, there's no need for concern. You're among family now," she comforted me, her words enveloped in warmth. "Tell you what, let's talk to Ashwin and plan a shopping excursion for tomorrow," she proposed, her suggestion laced with both generosity and empathy.
The thought of going shopping sparked a surge of both eagerness and appreciation within me. Anjali Bhabhi's gesture extended beyond mere material aid; it was an embrace of inclusion and understanding, making me feel truly welcomed in my new environment.
I was deeply touched by Anjali Bhabhi's efforts to make me feel comfortable, her engaging conversation easing my initial unease in these new surroundings. Her kindness was truly comforting.
Our moment of camaraderie was interrupted when a staff member approached with a message, "Ma'am, Sir has requested your presence at the 2nd parking lot, spot 326." Anjali Bhabhi acknowledged the instruction and gestured to me, "Let's go, Dolly." With Krishna by her side, she led us to the elevator.
Descending to the parking area, I was once again awestruck by the sight of a luxurious car awaiting us. Its sleek design and the sheer sense of luxury it exuded were undeniable. My familiarity with such opulence, thanks only to my brother's enthusiasm for cars, made me more aware of Ashwin's affluence. This realisation made me wonder why Aarti Mom had kept Ashwin's financial status a secret. It felt as if I had been cast in a classic film narrative, where a village girl finds herself intertwined with the life of a city-dwelling man.
At the parking lot, we rendezvoused with Ashwin and the others for the planned lunch. The gathering was filled with friendly banter, and the meal unfolded seamlessly, much to the satisfaction of our guests and ourselves. As we concluded the lunch meeting and departed, I was enveloped by a sense of living in a dream, traversing a world vastly different from my own.
