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"Take me to the main office," Shivendra ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument as he walked with precise steps.

Neeraj, still visibly shaken, nodded quickly and hurried ahead to lead the way.

The corridors of the orphanage were lined with bright paintings and decorations, an attempt to make the place feel warm and welcoming.

Yet, despite the cheerful surroundings, Neeraj couldn't shake the weight of Shivendra's presence behind him.

Once inside the office, Shivendra made himself comfortable in the large chair at the head of the table, his sharp gaze taking in every detail of the modestly furnished room.

Neeraj's fingers fidgeted with the edge of the table as he forced a shaky smile, his voice trembling with forced cheer.

"S-Sir, would you like something to drink? Tea? Coffee? You should really try the special pani puri, it's very famous here," he asked nervously.

His desperate attempt at small talk shattered against Shivendra's cold, unyielding tone.

"Files."

The single word sliced through the room like ice.

Neeraj froze, his eyes darting nervously. "S-Sir?" he stammered, unsure if he had heard correctly.

Shivendra leaned forward, his gaze sharp and merciless, each word weighed with authority.

"I want the complete records of the orphanage. I am not here for refreshments. This is an inspection," he said coldly.

The air thickened, pressing down on Neeraj's chest as he swallowed hard, realizing the gravity of the moment.

Neeraj felt his stomach drop. His hands trembled as he rushed to fetch the necessary documents, internally praying that everything was in order. 

Though he had everything hidden, he knew that nothing escaped Shivendra Rathore's scrutiny.

The room fell into an unsettling silence as Shivendra flipped through the files, his expression unreadable. Each page he turned only deepened Neeraj's dread.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Shivendra shut the file with a quiet yet definitive thud. His gaze lifted, pinning Neeraj in place.

A long pause. Then,

"Okay."

One word, flat and emotionless. Yet, it was enough to make Neeraj exhale a breath he didn't realize he had been holding.

Shivendra straightened his suit and rose from his chair, his every movement exuding control and precision. 

Without another word, he stepped out of the office, Neeraj following closely behind, sighing in quiet relief.

•| ⊱✿⊰ |•