Chapter 2: A New Beginning

Rishi sat still for a moment, absorbing the overwhelming surge of emotions and memories. The weight of two lives pressed against his mind, but unlike his past self, this time he had the knowledge to change everything.

A sudden knock on the door startled him. "Babuji, your mother is calling you for breakfast," a familiar voice spoke from outside. It was Pratap Singh, the ever-loyal butler who had remained with the family through its fall from grace.

Rishi stood up, steadying himself. He could still hear the faint mechanical hum of the Business System in his mind, waiting for his command. A new life, a new opportunity. He wasn't going to waste it.

As he stepped out of his modest yet spacious bedroom, the hallway's grandeur reminded him of what his family once was. The Verma Mansion, once a beacon of wealth and prestige, still retained its regal charm despite its evident signs of neglect. Faded paintings of his ancestors adorned the walls, their eyes filled with the pride of a bygone era. Chandeliers, once gleaming with brilliance, now hung with missing crystals, reflecting the slow decay of their legacy.

His mother, Savita Verma, was a woman of remarkable resilience. Once accustomed to luxury, she had gracefully adapted to hardship, carrying the burden of running both the household and their family restaurant, Verma's Delight. Rishi's father, Arun Verma, had built the restaurant from a small eatery into a well-known establishment, famous for its authentic Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine. But his mysterious disappearance two years ago had left a void that no one could fill.

Verma's Delight was more than just a restaurant—it was a piece of history. Located in the heart of Kanpur, it had once been the go-to place for nobles, businessmen, and families alike. The aroma of slow-cooked biryanis, rich curries, and sizzling kebabs had made it a legend in the city. But with Arun Verma gone and economic struggles mounting, the once-flourishing restaurant had begun to lose its charm. Many loyal customers still visited, drawn by nostalgia, but it was clear that without intervention, the restaurant was heading toward an inevitable decline.

Savita Verma had done her best, but the financial burden was heavy. Suppliers demanded upfront payments, staff had to be let go, and competitors were slowly eating away at their customer base. Despite all of this, she held her head high, refusing to let her son see her struggles. But Rishi now knew—he had seen it all in the memories he had inherited.

As he entered the dining room, he found his mother setting up their simple yet delicious breakfast. Fresh parathas, aloo sabzi, and a bowl of homemade curd sat on the table. She looked up at him and smiled, her tired eyes lighting up for a moment.

"You're up early today, beta," she said, surprised. "Are you feeling alright?"

Rishi smiled and took a seat. "I feel better than ever, Ma."

Pratap Singh, standing in the corner, observed him with a knowing gaze. He had watched over Rishi since childhood, and something about him felt different today—more confident, more determined.

As Rishi took a bite of his breakfast, he knew one thing for certain—he wasn't going to let his family suffer any longer. Verma's Delight would not only survive, but it would become a force to be reckoned with. He had the knowledge of the future, and now, he had a plan.

And so, his journey truly began.