📊THRONE IS TAKEN-CHAPTER-6

Third pov :

The bustling energy of Eshwar Industries filled the air. Employees hurriedly moved about, their steps purposeful as the hum of ringing phones and muted conversations created a lively symphony.

Inside the Meeting room, Rajendhran sat behind his massive oak desk, his fingers tapping anxiously against the polished surface.  Rudhran was set to visit today—not just any visit, but one that had the entire board of directors assembled in anticipation. Everyone was aware of Rudhran's monumental success in the Canada branch, a series of achievements that had elevated the company's global standing.

Ajay lounged in his chair, his custom suit perfectly tailored for Rarely present at the office, he treated the space more like a pit stop than a workplace. His attention lingered lazily on a female employee passing by the glass walls, a smirk playing on his lips. However, his musings were interrupted when Sudharshan walked in, his presence dominating the room. Though nearing his mid-fifties,  A senior shareholder and a longtime "friend" of Rajendhran, Sudharshan's genial demeanor often masked his manipulative streak.(also elder brother of Yamuna)

"Ah, uncle," Ajay greeted, spinning his chair slightly to face him.

"Ajay," Sudharshan responded smoothly,"I hear Rudhran has just arrived."

Ajay turned with a casual grin, "Ah, uncle. Here to check if Rudhran's already plotting to overthrow me?" he joked.

Sudharshan chuckled, his smile sly. "You're the CEO, Ajay. No one can touch that—least of all Rudhran. He might've made a name in Canada, but this is home home. We make the rules here."

Ajay leaned back, "Exactly. Let him dazzle everyone with his presentations. At the end of the day, I call the shots."

Sudharshan stepped closer, resting a hand on Ajay's chair, his expression sharpening. "Remember, Ajay, it's not just about calling the shots. It's about making sure everyone believes you're the only one who can."

Ajay nodded, though his grin remained cocky. "Don't worry, uncle. With you backing me, there's no way Rudhran can overshadow us."

The two shared a conspiratorial glance, their confidence feeding off each other. Rajendhran, meanwhile, sat tensely in his chairman's seat, flipping through documents he barely read. He was keenly aware of the power dynamics at play, especially Sudharshan's growing influence, which had slowly overshadowed his own.

By the time the shareholders had gathered in the conference room, the air was thick with anticipation. The upcoming project—rumored to be a jackpot for the company—was the talk of the hour. As the murmurs grew louder, the doors swung open, and the room fell into silence.

Rudhran entered, his tall frame and sharp suit radiating authority. His dark eyes scanned the room, a faint smirk playing on his lips as if he were amused by the gathered audience. Behind him walked Vishnu,The duo's presence was electric, shifting the room's energy entirely.

"Gentlemen," Rudhran began, his voice calm but cutting through the silence like a blade. "I hear there's quite the buzz about this project. Let's hope it lives up to the hype."

Sudharshan stepped forward, "Rudhran, welcome. We've been eager to hear your... insights."  there was an unmistakable edge in his tone.

Rudhran returned the smile with one of his own, laced with sarcasm. "I'm sure you have, Mr. Sudharshan. After all, it's not every day someone brings fresh perspective to an old system."

"we've all heard of your achievements in the Canada branch. But here, things are different. This is a family business, and Ajay has been steering the ship admirably."Sudharshan told.

Rudhran leaned back in his chair. "Admirably?" he repeated, a hint of amusement in his tone."I'm well aware of Ajay's... efforts. In fact, I've kept a close eye on Eshwar Industries over the years."

Ajay stiffened. "Is that so? Then you'd know we've been expanding steadily. I've been leading from the front."

Rudhran raised an eyebrow, his smirk now tinged with a bit more bite. "Expanding? Interesting choice of words. I'd describe it differently. Let's not forget the failed real estate venture three years ago that drained company resources or the ill-advised partnership with Paramount Ltd. that left us with mounting losses."

A few shareholders exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier confidence in Ajay visibly shaken. Ajay's fists clenched under the table, but he tried to keep his voice even. "That's ancient history. Every company faces setbacks."

"True," Rudhran replied smoothly, "But when setbacks become a pattern, they stop being mere coincidences. This upcoming project—the one everyone's calling a jackpot—requires vision and execution. Two things that, frankly, this company has been lacking."

"So," Rudhran leaned casually against the edge of the table, "before we go further, let's talk about why we're all here. The chairman himself asked for my presence. And while I respect his request, let's make one thing clear: I don't need this project. If I want, I can walk back to Canada right now, where my branch is thriving and profitable, unlike...well, what we've got here."

He let his words hang in the air, deliberately glancing at Ajay, whose fists clenched in frustration.

"Don't act like you know everything," Ajay snapped, standing up. "You think you're some savior? We've managed just fine without you."

Rudhran chuckled lightly, "Managed? That's a generous word for what you've done, Ajay. Let me remind you of a few highlights from your stellar tenure."

Pulling a tablet from Vishnu, Rudhran tapped a few times before turning the screen to the board. "Let's start with the Deccan Land Development project. A 30% loss because someone didn't bother doing their due diligence on local regulations."

Ajay's face flushed, but Rudhran continued. "And then there was the Paramount Ltd. partnership—oh, wait, that's the one where the company walked away with our patents and left us to clean up the mess, right? Good leadership there."

Sudharshan tried to interject, but Rudhran silenced him with a raised hand, his tone sharper. "I'm not done. These are just the big-ticket failures. Should I also bring up the consistent delays in quarterly reporting? Or how about the declining employee satisfaction rates? Because I've kept tabs on everything. Just because I wasn't here doesn't mean I wasn't watching."

The shareholders exchanged glances, whispers starting to rise among them. Rudhran's words were cutting but undeniably backed by proof.

"Enough!" Ajay barked, slamming his hand on the table. "You're here because of him—" he pointed at Rajendhran, "—not because you're some miracle worker."

Rudhran's gaze shifted to Rajendhran, whom he pointedly addressed with detached respect. "Chairman," he said with an ironic tilt of his head, "you asked me to come. And I did. But if you expect me to clean up this mess, I need full control. No compromises. I take over as CEO, Vishnu as CFO. It's non-negotiable."

The room fell silent, all eyes turning to Rajendhran, who looked visibly uncomfortable. His relationship with Rudhran had long since frayed, and Rudhran's insistence on formality cut deep.

"Rudhran," Rajendhran began hesitantly, "this company is still a family business. It's not easy to make such drastic changes overnight—"

"Family business?" Rudhran interrupted, "Funny. I don't recall family being part of the equation when Ajay was given free rein to ruin it."

"Watch your mouth!" Ajay growled, but Rudhran ignored him, his gaze never leaving Rajendhran.

"I don't do half-measures, Chairman," Rudhran continued, his voice steady and commanding. "You asked me here because you know the truth—this company is on the edge. And let me be clear: I don't need this. I'm not the one with everything to lose. But if you want me to take this project and put this company back on track, I need the authority to make it happen."

The shareholders began murmuring again, louder this time. A senior shareholder stood up, addressing the room. "It's true. Ajay's tenure has been riddled with issues. We've all stayed silent, but seeing Rudhran here, seeing his clarity and proof... I believe he's what this company needs."

One by one, the shareholders began voicing their agreement. Sudharshan's attempts to defend Ajay grew weaker as the tide shifted.

"Fine!" Ajay shouted, "You all want him? Take him! Let's see how your so-called savior does when he's in the hot seat!"

His eyes met Ajay's, cold and knowing, "Oh, don't worry, Ajay. I've been in the hot seat before," he said smoothly, while lighting the cigarette and placing them on his lips.

Rajendran, with a heavy sigh, "The board has decided. Rudhran, you're the new CEO. Vishnu, you'll step in as CFO. The company's future is in your hands now."

Rudhran's lips curled into a confident smirk as the room erupted in applause. The shareholders clapped, their faces illuminated by a blend of relief and excitement. The tension that had clung to the walls just moments ago had vanished, replaced by an air of optimism. The old, tired board was ready to follow a new leader, and Rudhran was here to be that guiding force.

Eshwaran mansion

Night

Aaradhya pov:

It was late, and I was in the kitchen boiling milk for Patti. Everyone else had already eaten, except for Rudhran sir and Vishnu sir—they hadn't come home yet. Rajendhran sir had arrived earlier, and during dinner, Yamuna madam seemed a little upset about something. She and Rajendhran sir whispered to each other the whole time. Patti, though, was in a great mood—she was so happy about Rudhran sir being made CEO! Priya akka was just as excited as Patti and kept saying how proud she was.

After finishing up in the kitchen, I grabbed the milk glass and headed to Patti's room. I knocked softly on the door, and her gentle voice called out, "Come in!"

As I stepped inside, she gave me one of her warm smiles. "Did you eat, da?" she asked.

I nodded quickly and smiled back. "Yes, Patti! Priya akka made me sit and eat with her, so I couldn't say no."

Patti chuckled, her wrinkled hand reaching out to pat my shoulder. "Good, good. You're such a sweet girl." Then, her expression turned a little more serious, though her smile stayed. "I need to tell you something, dear."

"Yes, Patti?" I tilted my head, curious.

She leaned a bit closer and said, "You need to take care of my grandson, Rudhran."

I blinked, completely thrown off. "Wh-what?" I stammered, feeling my cheeks warm up.

Patti just smiled knowingly, but I didn't understand why. "What I mean is, Rudhran is very particular about his health. He's a fitness freak, you see. He only drinks black tea—and it must be made exactly on time. No delays, understand?"

"Oh!" I exclaimed, nodding earnestly. "I'll make sure, Patti! Black tea... on time. Got it."

"And another thing," Patti continued, her eyes sparkling as she spoke. "He has all these fancy health drinks, too—some green powder he mixes in water, and something else for his protein."

I nodded even harder, determined. "Don't worry, Patti. I'll make sure he has everything he needs".

Patti's laugh was soft but full of affection. "Good girl. I know I can count on you. You're a hardworking child, always running around this big house and never complaining. That's why I wanted to tell you—you'll make sure Rudhran stays on track."

I didn't fully understand why Patti was putting so much importance on me handling Rudhran sir's drinks, but I smiled anyway. "I'll take care of it, Patti. You don't have to worry!"

"Ah, such a dear child," she said, patting my cheek. "Go rest now. You've done enough for today."

I left her room with the empty glass, feeling a mix of pride and confusion. Patti's words always carried so much weight, but sometimes I wasn't sure why.

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