Tina’s demeanor transformed instantly. “Good morning, Your Highness,” she said, stepping forward with practiced ease, her voice softer now, almost warm.
This time, Bharat didn’t even acknowledge her presence with a nod.
But that didn’t seem to deter Tina.
“We were discussing enhanced security protocols,” Tina continued, her tone eager. “Given the possible threat of internal sabotage, I recommend thorough background checks on all personnel, including temporary hires.”
Her gaze flicked toward Yamini.
Bharat did not respond, but Yamini felt his gaze from behind his sunglasses.
Then he turned away and walked toward the glass office overlooking the plant floor.
The door closed behind him.
Tina’s lips curved slightly. “You may want to start wrapping up your work, Miss Dhar. I don’t think you’ll be needed beyond today.”
Yamini didn’t reply.
Yamini returned to work, documenting operations, emissions controls, and safety drills. She stayed professional and focused, but irritation simmered under her calm.
Neither Bharat Jogra nor his team called for her.
There was no acknowledgment. Or reaction. Or any investigation. Not even a passing glance through the glass office above.
Nothing.
At first, Yamini told herself it did not matter. She had work to do, and she did it with steady focus, moving from one section of the plant to another, capturing images, adjusting angles, keeping her mind deliberately occupied.
But by late afternoon, it was no longer irritation. It felt personal.
Yamini’s jaw tightened.
Was he deliberately drawing it out? Letting her sweat, thinking he would fire her anytime?
Or maybe he had seen her and decided she wasn’t worth reacting to.
He dismissed her as if she did not exist. Again.
She zipped her camera bag shut with more force than necessary. But instead of leaving, she turned toward the administrative wing, her steps quick and unhesitating.
Two uniformed royal security men moved into her path the moment she reached the office door.
“I need to speak with… His Highness,” Yamini said.
One of them shook his head. “We can’t let you in without an appointment.”
“Then ask him for one. Tell him it’s Yamini… Dhar.” She almost said Yamini Gaur, but she knew Bharat would know her by her professional name. He must have enquired when he saw her the previous day.
The guards looked at her for a moment and nodded. Then they called to inform him of her presence.
A sharp crackle of static cut through.
“Let her in,” a deep voice commanded.
The guards stepped aside instantly.
Yamini walked in with her heart thudding.
