CHAPTER 30
VIKRAM
“Vikram,” Dad calls out as he enters the gym where I've been working out for the past two hours. I usually don't spend this much time in the gym, especially on weekdays, but I need to sweat out my desperation, frustration, anger, and pain. However, Dad’s sudden entry ruins my plans. I know why he’s here. I keep doing pushups.
“You and I need to talk, son. There’s a lot to catch up on Devki Estate,” he says.
“I know,” I agree, switching to lifting dumbbells.
“I think there’s some mistake,” he continues. “Shukla told me you’re building an old age home there.”
“I am,” I reply instantly. “There’s no mistake, Dad.”
He flinches at my direct revelation. “Despite knowing we were going to use that land for our real estate partner?”
“Yes. Despite that.” I get up and wipe the sweat from my face with a fresh towel. “That land is no longer for business, Dad. Let our partner know, and if he doesn’t understand, send him to me. I know how to handle such people.”
I stride to the door.
“Vikram, wait,” he groans. “Are you out of your mind? Do you know what you’re talking about?”
I take a deep breath and turn to him. “Dad, tell me one thing. Whom do you want to see happy? Your partner who gives you business or your son, whom you raised and who lives with you?”
Dad looks offended, confused, and speechless.
“Don’t rush, Dad,” I add. “Think hard about this because this is no longer just about money or power. It’s about your son’s happiness, which lies in fulfilling his grandmother’s dream.”
I believe I’ve made myself clear. Now, my next agenda is to take Daadi and Maahi out for sightseeing and show them a good time here.