Episode - 3
Ravi has appointed Charmi as the receptionist, and it's been about six months since she joined the company. One day, on his way to the office, he spots Charmi standing by her bike, looking like she’s waiting for something. Concerned, Ravi asks his driver to stop and goes over to check on her.
Ravi: Hi Charmi.
Charmi: Hi, Sir.
Ravi: Is everything okay? Do you need help?
Charmi: No, it’s fine, Sir. My bike was working when I left home, but now I have a flat tire.
Ravi: I see. Let me get my driver to help with that.
Charmi: No, really, Sir, it’s alright. I can handle it.
Ravi: As your boss, it’s my responsibility to look out for you. Raju, come help with the bike.
Raju: Sure, Sir! Should I take it to the office?
Ravi: Yes, please do. I’ll drive the car for now. Let’s go, Charmi.
Charmi: Thanks, Sir. (She gets in the passenger seat of Ravi's car.)
Ravi then drives to a coffee shop and invites her in. They find a table in the corner.
Ravi: Is coffee okay for you?
Charmi: Yes, that sounds good.
Ravi: Please stop calling me "Sir." Just call me Ravi.
Charmi: I can’t do that; you’re my boss!
Ravi: As your boss, I insist.
(Charmi smiles and nods.)
When their coffee arrives, Ravi starts a conversation.
Ravi: So Charmi, how long have you been in the city? Are you living with family or friends?
Charmi: It’s been a couple of months, and I’m staying with a friend.
Ravi: Where are you originally from, and what does your father do?
Charmi: I’m from a village about 250 kilometers away. My father passed away a few years ago, and my mother still lives in the village.
Ravi: I’m sorry to hear that.
Charmi: I was actually trying to meet you at the office but was hesitant about it.
Ravi: You can always come to me with anything; I’m here to help.
Charmi: Thanks, Ravi. Since my father’s passing, it’s been tough managing expenses back home. He used to work the fields, and now I have to find work in the city. I was lucky to find your job posting.
Ravi: I understand. How are things back in your village now?
Charmi: Unfortunately, not well. My mom borrowed money from a landlord, and since I started working, I’ve only been able to pay off 10% of the debt. The landlord’s men come by every day for payment, and it’s causing a lot of trouble.
Ravi: I’m sorry to hear that. How can I help?
Charmi: If you wouldn’t mind, could I borrow some money as an advance on my salary?
Ravi: Sure, how much do you need?
Charmi: About 20 lakhs.
Ravi: That’s quite a bit, considering your salary. You mean 20 thousand, right?
Charmi: Yes, 20 thousand. I know it will take a long time to repay, but I don’t have any other options.
Ravi: I understand. Let me think about it, and we can return to work.
On the drive back, Ravi thinks this could be a great opportunity for him. The next day, he calls Charmi to his office.
Charmi: May I come in?
Ravi: Yes, please have a seat.
Charmi: Thank you.
Ravi: After considering your situation, I think I can help with your debt. However, I’ll need some assurance due to the amount you’re asking for.
Charmi: I don’t have much to offer as collateral besides my family’s home, which is worth around 2 lakhs.
Ravi: I don’t need your home. Instead, I’ll have my lawyer prepare an agreement stating that you’re responsible for repaying the loan and that you can’t leave your job until it’s paid off.
Charmi: Thank you so much! I’m willing to sign the agreement.
Ravi: Great, I’ll get that arranged and call you when it’s ready.
Charmi: I really appreciate your help; I won’t forget it.
Ravi: It’s my duty to support my employees.
Charmi: Okay, I’ll get back to work now.
Ravi then calls his lawyer and discusses the agreement for a couple of hours. A few days later, the lawyer visits and hands over the finalized document.
Ravi: Thanks, Ratan. Do you think this will hold up?
Ratan: Absolutely. I’ve included all the conditions we discussed, hidden in the fine print.
Ravi: Do you think it could backfire?
Ratan: No need to worry. Everything is legal. Once she signs, you’ll see the strength of the agreement.
Ravi: Good. I’m counting on this. I’ll talk to you later.
Ratan: Sure.
With that, Ratan leaves the office.
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