Fruit of Passion

Blast from the past

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and valued partners,

Today is a momentous occasion in the history of our business empire, as we gather here to celebrate a monumental milestone. I am delighted to announce that the Ghani Group of Industries is embarking on a historic merger with the esteemed Abbas enterprise.

This merger represents a union of strength, vision, and unparalleled expertise. Together, we are determined to reshape the structure of our industry, reaching new heights of innovation and success. By joining forces, we combine our collective talents, resources, and capabilities, paving the way for an even brighter future.

This merger is a testament to our unwavering commitment to growth and excellence. It is a tribute to the passion, dedication, and hard work of every individual within our empire.  

 Together, we will write a new chapter in the history of our industry, setting new benchmarks and redefining what is possible. The journey may be challenging, but I have no doubt that with our combined strength, we will triumph.

Today, we celebrate not only a merger but also the vast potential it brings. Let us celebrate the remarkable future that awaits us. 

Thank you, and let the celebration begin!

Muhammad Shahnawaz Ghani completed his heartfelt speech and was met with a round of applause. He stood at the head of the table spread across the boardroom filled with all the stakeholder from both the companies. On one side of M.S Ghani stood Alya and Fakhir while Wania and Arsalan were standing on the other side.

The sound of applause barely came down when suddenly the door of the Boardroom flung open and there came Irfan Raza, Husband to Alya Ghani and father to Wania Ghani. All sounds died down all of a sudden as everyone looked at the newest arrival in the room. Irfan Raza sheepishly shifted from one foot to another before he said,

"Sorry, I am late."

"You did get the memo and the invitation, right? asked M.S Ghani in a disapproving tone

"Ah! Yes. But, I was out of the country." Irfan Raza replied calmly as if there was nothing odd about this interaction. Irfan had always been careless in his relationships but lately, his attitude had become too casual for work as well. Irfan Raza was a shareholder of 5% at the Ghani Group of Industries, the shares were transferred to him at the time of his marriage with Alya and by the extension of this courtesy he was invited to this board meeting. But, as usual, he thought it wasn't important enough to be on time.

"Where exactly?" Shahnawaz asked curtly inquiring about Irfan's whereabouts

"Bali, Indonesia," Irfan said slightly taken offence at being interrogated in the room full of board members.

"We had no business there so that must be a personal trip," Shahnawaz spoke with controlled disdain in his voice and Irfan Raza shrugged uncomfortably. Shahnawaz waved a  dismissive hand for him to come in as he turned his attention towards the rest of the crowd and said,

"Sorry for the interruption, please continue with the celebrations." He concluded with a practised smile as he sat down on his chair and everyone else broke into chatters and whispers.

Irfan Raza, though smartly dressed and conventionally handsome exudes the air of laziness. He casually crossed the boardroom and came to stand directly in front of Alya Ghani.

Fakhir, who was standing just beside her caught the slight change in Alya's posture as her back stiffens a little. He wanted to somehow make the situation better for her but didn't know how.

"How are you Alya, it's been months since we last met." Irfan Raza said casually.

" 10 months....and you hadn't called Wania on her birthday either," Alya replied a bit mechanically.

"Ah! my baby..." Irfan Raza suddenly remembered the existence of his daughter and turned towards her, "How are you my baby,...sorry I missed your birthday." he said making a genuinely sorry face. Wania would have believed him if she didn't know better.

Arsalan was watching the scene playing out in front of him. He saw Alya's nervousness and Wania's disrupted state as she said,

"Wouldn't be the first time you missed my birthday but you should have been here on time. It's a big day for Mama." Wania's facial expressions were stony and Arsalan suddenly longed for the perky expressions on her face earlier. 

"Anyway, Mama has joined the GHnai-Abbas combined venture as Co-CEO with Mr Fakhir Abbas. It's her official debut in the business world. You should congratulate her." Wania insisted to Irfan in a mocking tune.

"Ah, Really?...I did get the memo but never can get to read it completely."....." Anyway, congratulation Alya. Finally you are being put to use." His laugh was boyish but his words were derogatory and Fakhir had to cut in,

"Alya is an amazing woman and I don't see how one can possibly not see her merit. It was her choice that she chose to use her abilities at home I am sure Wania and Mr. M.S GHani are grateful for that. And, now that she had decided to try her hand in the business which was always hers, I believe it is our lucky break." Fakhir was on a trail and both Alya and Wania looked at him too stunned to react. But, he wasn't done yet,

"Speaking of 'putting to use'. How about you come to my office coming Monday and we'll discuss your yearly performance and see where you fit in this collaboration."

This infuriated Irfan Raza but he was a sensible man and knew his position well. So, he decided to stay quiet but took a mental note of this confrontation for future reference.

"I see you have made new friends Alya" Irfan Raza was back to Alya as she stood there frozen. "Be careful honey, don't let them make you impudent," Irafan warned and Fakhir felt the kind of rage he never felt before.

Arsalan saw all this from a safe distance but as he saw blood rushing to his Uncle's eyes, he knew it was time to make a move.

   *********************************************************************************************************