SOMEWHERE IN THE CITY
Joseph scrolled through every article—online and in print—about Kavya's return. Most headlines criticized Glassglow, accusing the company of orchestrating a publicity stunt during the CEO election.
Rival firms shammed the company —calling it cheap for gaining unwanted attention and public sympathy
Joseph had to prepare a detailed report on it.
"Hmm…Even though Glassglow's stock has seen a slight rise, it's still far below the target projections."
He leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing. "Vikram… that nefarious piece of shit I don't believe his record is untainted….
Suddenly, an article from small newspaper caught his eye. Though short on details, it directly accused Vikram of being a tyrant double faced person who harassed female employees and accepted sexual favors as bribes. It claimed he promoted his lackeys only and showered them with bonuses, while suppressing anyone who dared challenge him. The office, had become a toxic pit of bullying and fear.
The change since the former president's death was concerning yet no one cared about employee welfare anymore. Most employees bound by non-disclosure agreements. Breaking silence could lead to their safety falling in a risky situation
Engrossed in article , Joseph hadn't noticed his coffee had gone cold. It was already 2 a.m., but this discovery was too electrifying to ignore.
Using his excellent skills he dug into the dark pit more . More clips and testimonials surfaced.
One video, posted by a channel named Bursting Rumours, featured an anonymous former employee whose voice was digitally altered for her safety
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Host: "You worked at Glassglow for five years. What was it like?"
Ex-Employee: "The first four years were amazing. It was my dream job. But after the ex-president passed, everything changed. The environment turned toxic—completely unbearable under Vikram's
Her sharp voice cut through the mic and a whirlpool of emotions of anger regret penetrated through the clip
Host: "Could you share specific incidents of exploitation?"
The former employee's words spilled out like venom. "Vikram was a fussy and short tempered rude boss , questioning our competence and rejected our ideas and projectandI am not at all hesitant to say he loved play favorites, promotions and perks were given to those who kissed up to him, while sabotaging the careers of those who did not obey his authority."
When few of us spoke up and protested We were transferred to a far away branch in another state .That's when I decided to leave the company for good.
It used to be my dream job but shame on these people!
The journalist's pen scratched across their notebook as they asked, "Did you witness any extreme cases of exploitation.?"
Her voice trembled as she spoke…
1. "One colleague wasn't given leave even when his wife went into labor. He missed the birth of his child because Vikram didn't 'approve' time off."
2. "Many of us, especially women, were subjected to harassment. Sexual misconduct was brushed under the rug. Overtime went unpaid, and threats of blacklisting kept us silent. It wasn't just toxic—it was brutal."
Shortly after the video aired, a spokesperson for Vikram dismissed the claims: "These accusations are baseless, made by disgruntled employees who couldn't handle high-pressure demand and wants to malign the company's reputations."
THE NEXT MORNING
Glassglow's corporate office was buzzing with faces. They reflected every possible emotion—hope, fear, anxiety. Today's interviews would influence the company's future.
"Candidate number 12, please come in "
A nervous young woman stood up. Her footsteps were hesitant, her lips whispered silent prayers.
Inside the bright welllit room, she was greeted by unfamiliar faces—except one, which she recognized instantly. A woman in her forties offered a gentle smile.
"Please introduce yourself."
Taking a deep breath, she stood tall. "Good morning, respected panel. My name is Priyanka Chaubal. I'm from Mumbai, and I've recently graduated with top grades in Chemistry."
One interviewer raised an eyebrow. "With these merits ,you could easily pursue a PhD or a high-paying job in research. Why come to Glassglow?"
Priyanka's eyes shone."Since childhood, I've been fascinated by the chemistry of fragrances. There was a perfume shop opposite my home, and watching it has inspired my passion. I've always wanted to be a part of this industry."
The interview process continued throughout the day, with questions flying and answers flowing.
The result of the interview was pasted on their faces .Looking closely a tall young man amongst the candidates was seen dealing a number separating himself from the crowd. "I got in," he whispered, a victorious smile dancing on his lips..
ON THE OTHER SIDE
Kavya, dressed casually, attended the infamous "Monthly Meeting"—mockingly dubbed by employees as "Vicharo ka Nash" (Destruction of ideas.)
Half of the attendees were sleepy and tired of same old chatter about stock market and boring sales of "OG"perfumes and new kits…
Hot Americano and few snacks was delivered by the server to everyone present.
KAVYA'S coffee kicked in.It worked magic as she interrupted the boring monotonous briefing .
"Ladies and gentlemen, I have a proposal for a new product—if anyone's interested."
Eyes turned toward her. The room began to stir.
"Organic products are gaining popularity more than ever . People nowadays are more health-conscious than. And yet, Glassglow has no organic perfume line."
Murmurs filled the room. One of them spoke out do you have a specific idea of how to proceed the idea is pretty good but it requires a lot of production of many raw materials of flowers and other materials which currently we are not that familiar with.
"I've already started working on this idea and certain arrangements are being made. I'll present a prototype at the next monthly meeting. Anyone interested in the idea feel free to reach out to me."
Some faces lit up with curiosity and hope. Others twisted with skepticism —like bitter grapes left out too long.
One older executive scoffed. "Organic scents can't possibly match the rich fragrances we've perfected over the years."
Kavya met his gaze with quiet defiance.
"Maybe not. But perfection evolves. And Glassglow must evolve too—otherwise it will rust from within."