12."Contract Signed"

As the cabin door swung open, my gaze was immediately drawn to the figure that entered. A beautiful girl stepped inside, her features delicate yet striking, but there was a hint of melancholy in her eyes that added a layer of mystery to her allure. Despite the absence of a smile, there was an undeniable charm about her that made her presence captivating.

"Anasuya, come here," Miss Bhandari beckoned, her voice breaking the silence in the room. Anasuya nodded in response, her movements graceful yet tinged with a subtle hesitancy as she made her way to Miss Bhandari's side.

"This is Krishna, the CEO of Nirvana Enterprises," Miss Bhandari introduced, gesturing towards me with a sense of pride. "And Krishna, meet Anasuya Ramalingam. I believe you're familiar with her mother, Mahalakshmi Ramalingam, the owner of ANASOL."

I nodded in acknowledgment, a sense of respect and admiration for Mahalakshmi Ramalingam's achievements evident in my expression. "Yes, I know her. She's a remarkable woman. The success of ANASOL is truly impressive," I replied, genuine admiration coloring my words.

Turning my attention to Anasuya, I noticed a flicker of surprise in her eyes at the mention of her mother's name. But beneath the surprise, there was something else—a hint of discomfort or unease that lingered in her gaze.

Sensing her inner turmoil, I made a spontaneous decision and rose from my seat, taking a step towards her. Extending my hand in a gesture of friendship, I offered her a warm smile.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Anasuya," I said softly, my voice carrying a genuine warmth. "Your mother's achievements are truly inspiring, but I'm sure you're carving out your own path as well."

Anasuya's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected gesture, her expression shifting from surprise to something resembling disbelief. For a moment, she seemed frozen in place, her eyes wide with astonishment.

Suppressing a chuckle at her adorable reaction, I couldn't help but admire her innocence and vulnerability. The urge to reach out and pull her cheeks in affection was almost irresistible, but I managed to restrain myself, not wanting to overstep any boundaries.

Instead, I maintained my friendly demeanor, waiting patiently for her response, hoping to break through the barrier of discomfort and forge a connection that transcended the awkwardness of the moment.

As Anasuya took my hand, her grip was gentle yet firm, her touch conveying a sense of sincerity and warmth. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Krishna. I hope we can work together," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of nervousness.

Returning her handshake with a reassuring smile, I nodded in agreement. "Likewise, Anasuya. I'm sure we'll make a great team," I replied, my tone filled with optimism and encouragement.

But before I could delve further into conversation, a question nagged at the back of my mind, and I couldn't resist the urge to seek clarification. "But can I ask you something, Anasuya, if you don't mind?" I inquired politely, hoping not to intrude.

Anasuya's expression grew slightly tense, a hint of apprehension flickering in her eyes. "Okay," she replied hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I didn't understand why the daughter of Mahalakshmi Ramalingam is working as an editor instead of handling companies," I remarked, my curiosity piqued by Anasuya's unexpected career choice.

Anasuya appeared slightly nervous at my question, but before she could respond, Miss Bhandari stepped in to provide an explanation. "Krishna, that's because Anasuya didn't have an interest in managing a company. She wants to try something new and find out what she's good at. Becoming your editor is her first job, and I hope you can understand her decision," Miss Bhandari explained, her tone carrying a sense of understanding and support.

A smile tugged at my lips as I listened to Miss Bhandari's explanation. "Of course, Miss Bhandari. How could I not help an adorable girl like her?" I replied, my words laced with sincerity and warmth.

Anasuya's cheeks flushed with a slight blush at my compliment, and she murmured a soft "Thank you" in response. Her vulnerability and sincerity only endeared her to me further, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of protectiveness towards her.

The tranquility of the moment was abruptly shattered by the sound of a phone clattering to the ground. All eyes turned to Ammu. As our gazes met, I detected a hint of jealousy simmering beneath the surface of her apologetic demeanor.

"Sorry," she murmured, her voice tinged with remorse as she hastily bent down to retrieve the fallen phone.

I offered her a reassuring smile, understanding the underlying emotions that had led to the mishap. "It's alright, Ammu," I reassured her gently, trying to ease the tension that hung in the air.

In that moment, I made the decision to release Anasuya's hand that I had been holding. Despite the brief connection we had shared, it was important to prioritize the comfort and feelings of those around me, especially Ammu or she might kill me now.

After that I wasted no time in expressing my eagerness to proceed. "So, can we make a contract now?" I inquired, directing my question to both Anasuya and Miss Bhandari.

Miss Bhandari's nod of approval was all the confirmation I needed. "Of course, Anasuya, please prepare a contract for Krishna," she instructed, her tone carrying an air of authority.

Anasuya nodded in response, her movements quick and efficient as she settled into her seat beside Miss Bhandari. With practiced skill, she began drafting the contract, her fingers flying across the keyboard with purposeful determination.

As Anasuya worked on crafting the document, we engaged in a lively discussion about the terms and conditions, ensuring that every detail was thoroughly addressed and agreed upon. Miss Bhandari's expertise provided invaluable guidance, her insights helping to shape the final agreement into a comprehensive and fair arrangement for both parties.

An hour passed in a blur of negotiations and revisions, each clause carefully scrutinized and refined to meet our mutual satisfaction. Finally, with the last few adjustments made, the contract was complete.

Anasuya swiftly printed out the finalized document, her eyes shining with a sense of accomplishment as she handed it to me. Taking the contract in hand, I settled into my seat, preparing to review the contents with a meticulous eye for detail.

-------

**Contract for Publication of "The Guide" between Author Krishna Prasad and Mahalakshmi Publications**

**1. Parties Involved:**

This agreement is made on [Date:-******] between:

Author: Krishna Prasad

Address: [Author's Address:-#######]

Email: [krishna.prasad@Gmail.com]

And

Publisher: Mahalakshmi Publications

Address:-[Publisher address:-######]

Email: [@mahalakshmipublications.in]

**2. Manuscript Details:**

The Author Krishna agrees to grant Mahalakshmi Publications the exclusive rights to publish and distribute the novel titled "The Guide" in print and digital formats.

**3. Advance Payment:**

Mahalakshmi Publications agrees to pay the Author Krishna an advance of [Amount:-$$$$$] upon signing this contract, with subsequent royalty payments to be determined as per Clause 5.

**4. Editing and Production:**

The Publisher shall provide editorial services including but not limited to structural editing, copyediting, and proofreading. The Author Krishna agrees to collaborate with the Publisher's editorial team to ensure the manuscript meets the highest standards of quality.

**5. Royalties:**

The Author Krishna will receive royalties of [Percentage:-%%%%%%] of the net proceeds from the sales of "The Guide," to be calculated quarterly and paid to the Author Krishna within [15] days after the end of each quarter.

**6. Copyright:**

The Author Krishna retains the copyright to "The Guide" and grants Mahalakshmi Publications the right to publish and distribute the work for the duration of this agreement.

**7. Marketing and Promotion:**

Mahalakshmi Publications agrees to promote "The Guide" through various marketing channels, including but not limited to online advertising, book signings, and promotional events.

**8. Termination:**

Either party may terminate this agreement in writing with [18] days' notice. Upon termination, all rights granted under this agreement shall revert to the Author.

**9. Governing Law:**

This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Jurisdiction:-××××××], and any disputes arising from this agreement shall be resolved through arbitration.

**10. Signatures:**

This contract constitutes the entire agreement between the Author Krishna and Mahalakshmi Publications. Both parties hereby acknowledge their acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth herein by signing below:

Krishna Prasad [My Signature] [Date:-******]

Mahalakshmi Publications [Miss Bhandari Signature] [Date:-******]

------

As I scanned through the pages, my mind raced with anticipation Despite the weighty nature of the document before me, there was an undeniable sense of exhilaration coursing through my veins. This contract represented more than just a legal agreement—it was a symbol of the dreams and aspirations that had brought us together, a promise of collaboration and creativity that would shape the future of my literary career.

With a sense of satisfaction settling over the room, I glanced at Miss Bhandari and Anasuya, a smile playing at the corners of my lips. "Everything is all right," I affirmed, my voice filled with assurance.

Their nods of agreement signaled that we were all on the same page, ready to move forward with our partnership. I reached for the pen, my hand steady as I affixed my signature to the contract. Passing it to Miss Bhandari, I watched as she followed suit, her signature a final seal of our agreement.

Turning to Anasuya, I extended my hand in a gesture of camaraderie. "Happy collaboration. I'm looking forward to working with you," I declared, genuine enthusiasm coloring my words.

Anasuya's smile was radiant as she returned the handshake, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Happy collaboration, I'm also looking forward to working with you," she replied, her voice brimming with excitement.

As our hands met in a brief yet meaningful handshake, I made a mental note to release her hand quickly, mindful of the jealousy that had previously flared in Ammu. With a polite nod, I gently withdrew, allowing Anasuya to return to her seat.

Engaging in polite conversation for a few moments longer, I felt a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect blossoming between us. With the formalities concluded, it was time to exchange contact information and bid farewell.

Pulling out my phone, I quickly exchanged numbers with Anasuya,you know a gesture of goodwill and professionalism. As we said our goodbyes to Miss Bhandari and Anasuya, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the future.

With the contract signed and sealed, a new chapter had begun—a chapter filled with collaboration, creativity, and the promise of success. As we left Mahalakshmi Publications behind, I couldn't help but feel a surge of optimism for the journey that lay ahead, confident that together, we would achieve great things.

(A/N:If you notice any signs of Krishna's relationships progressing too quickly with the girls, please don't hesitate to inform me or just ignore it. I'm doing my best to nurture healthy relationships between Krishna and the girls. Also, don't forgot that in Indian movies, characters often fall in love in just one song just kidding 😁 but I'm watching the movies again and again to better understand the characters. If you feel the characters aren't behaving as they should, feel free to address it or just ignore it.)

(Words count:1870)