Change of Plans

The wooden table in Prime Minister Rohan's office looked as if it had just survived a battle papers spread in every direction.

Telegrams stacked like haphazard Jenga towers, and a cup of Darjeeling tea threatening to tip over the latest Ministry of External Affairs memo.

The air carried a mix of ink, paper, and the distinct aroma of stress.

Dr. Homi Bhabha peered over his glasses at a large folder labeled CONFIDENTIAL.

Finance Minister Harish Mehta sat across from him, stirring his tea absentmindedly.

Foreign Minister K.P. Singh with a big smile plastered over his face as if he has won a great victory tapped a thick file against the table and leaned forward.

"It's official," Singh announced, his voice full of excitement but tinged with fatigue and urgency.

"You leave for Washington in ten days."

Rohan arched an eyebrow. "I thought this was a quiet meeting with Bell Labs. This… looks more like a parade."