INTRO 00:00:00
Welcome to OBSCURUS, your weekly dose of paranormal fiction. Every Wednesday OBSCURUS features new short stories and serialized novels written by novelist, screenwriter, and voice-over artist Biswajit Banerjee. The realm of the paranormal stretches far beyond the usual horror story. So, while you will get to listen to lots of ghost stories on this podcast, there will also be many tales of lesser-known paranormal themes. To get us started, here's your host Biswajit Banerjee.
HOST TALK 00:00:47
Welcome to another enthralling episode of OBSCURUS, where the unseen becomes seen, and the ordinary blurs with the extraordinary. I'm your host, Biswajit Banerjee, and tonight, we continue our journey into the eerie and enigmatic world of our serialized novel, 'SHE WANTS TO KILL.'
Previously, we saw Ravi grappling with his terrifying encounters with the bloodless girl, his mind teetering between reality and the supernatural. The last episode ended on a hopeful note, with Ravi discovering a glimmer of success in using the technique of autosuggestion to ward off his fears.
Tonight, in Chapter 8, 'The Boss Is Always Wrong,' Ravi's struggles extend beyond the supernatural as he faces professional turmoil. A meeting with his boss, Mr. Jacobs, reveals the increasing pressure at work and Ravi's waning influence. Amidst this professional strain, an ominous note appears, hinting at yet another supernatural encounter. The confluence of workplace tension and ghostly threats promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Before we delve into this gripping chapter, I invite you to visit our websites, biswajitbanerjee.com and obscurus.buzzsprout.com, for more content and updates. Your support is invaluable to us, and subscribing to our YouTube channel will bring you behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and much more. Besides, we are excited to announce that we will soon be on Patreon and other platforms where you can contribute to our creative endeavors and gain access to exclusive content.
For those looking to improve their English speaking skills, check out my training program, SPOKEN ENGLISH FOR NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS. This program is designed to help you gain confidence and fluency in English through tailored lessons and interactive sessions.
Now, without further ado, let's dive into the eighth chapter of 'SHE WANTS TO KILL' – 'The Boss Is Always Wrong.' Get ready for a compelling mix of workplace drama and supernatural suspense as Ravi navigates these dual challenges.
Enjoy the episode!
SHE WANTS TO KILL 00:03:45
CHAPTER 08 – THE BOSS IS ALWAYS WRONG
Written and Performed by Biswajit Banerjee
00:04:12
"Sir, the Managing Director wishes to see you," Ravi's private secretary, Harish, informed him the next day upon his arrival at the office.
"Thank you, Harish. I'll see him shortly," Ravi replied, swiftly arranging the papers containing crucial statistical figures for his company.
00:04:34
Within minutes, Ravi entered Mr. Jacobs's office. Dozens of papers were scattered across the boss's expansive table. Mr. Jacobs reclined in a plush, crimson armchair directly opposite the table. A sleek desktop computer hummed on a small side table to his right, its edge touching the corner of the main table.
"Please have a seat, Ravi," Mr. Jacobs said, his gaze fixed on the computer screen. "How are you feeling today?"
"Better, Sir, thank you," Ravi replied, pulling a chair to the other side of the table and sitting down.
Mr. Jacobs continued working silently for a long while, seemingly oblivious to Ravi's presence. Ravi couldn't help but resent the aura of authority Mr. Jacobs exuded lately. There was a time when Ravi commanded significant influence despite being second to Mr. Jacobs. The Chairperson held immense trust in Ravi, often bypassing Mr. Jacobs for important projects. However, Ravi's current capabilities paled in comparison, bolstering Mr. Jacobs's stature considerably.
"Sir, the statistical figures are ready," Ravi attempted to resume the conversation as Mr. Jacobs finally tore his gaze from the computer monitor.
"Which figures?" Mr. Jacobs turned to him.
"The statistical figures based on the market data you requested, Sir," Ravi handed over the papers.
Mr. Jacobs skimmed through the figures swiftly, then regarded Ravi with his usual air of authority.
"Have you thoroughly reviewed these figures?" Mr. Jacobs inquired.
"Yes, Sir."
"Can I send them directly to the Chairperson?"
"I believe so, Sir."
"What do you mean by 'I believe so'? Are you not certain?"
"I am certain, Sir."
"You don't sound sure, Ravi," Mr. Jacobs responded. "If you're unsure, you should double-check."
"Well, Sir..."
"What? You don't want to verify them?"
"I've reviewed them multiple times, Sir, but if you insist, I'll re-examine the figures."
"I'm not insisting on anything, Ravi," Mr. Jacobs said calmly. "I just want to ensure accuracy."
With that, Mr. Jacobs pushed the papers back toward Ravi. As Ravi rearranged them, ready to leave, Mr. Jacobs's words stopped him in his tracks.
"It's not about these statistical figures that I called you," Mr. Jacobs said.
"What is it, then?" Ravi sat back down.
"Ravi, I've hesitated to mention this repeatedly, but I have little choice now. I don't believe you're giving your best effort. You've been missing deadlines for several projects recently. I understand health issues are a factor, but this can't continue."
"But, Sir, I haven't missed deadlines for all projects. I admit some recent projects posed complex problems that couldn't be resolved using conventional methods."
"Your reasons are weak, Ravi. Are you implying you're limited to standard work techniques? Where's your innovation and creativity? I frequently tackle complex issues creatively; half the challenges I face wouldn't be resolved using precedents alone. Since becoming Managing Director, I've encouraged innovation and risk-taking. I lead by example and expect creativity from my team, especially at your level. Do you agree?"
Ravi sensed the stark change in circumstances. Before him sat a man who once played second fiddle while Ravi excelled with innovative ideas. Often, the Chairperson consulted Ravi directly on complex matters, sidelining Mr. Jacobs. Now, the tables had turned, and Mr. Jacobs lectured him on the importance of innovation.
"What are you thinking?" Mr. Jacobs interrupted Ravi's thoughts.
"I was reflecting on your words," Ravi replied.
"I don't intend to demoralize you, but I must be honest."
"I understand, Sir," Ravi nodded.
"You need to improve. Health issues aside, this can't continue indefinitely."
"But, Sir, I'm not making excuses. Perhaps you don't realize I'm still undergoing treatment," Ravi protested softly.
"Your words suggest you're medically unfit for the job. Is that what you're saying?"
"Not at all, Sir," Ravi replied firmly but respectfully. "I'm under treatment, and occasionally my health issues flare up. It doesn't mean I'm unfit. Despite this, I've performed better than many Assistant Managing Directors."
"Ravi, it's unprofessional to compare yourself to others. As your superior, I assess your performance," Mr. Jacobs stated firmly. "Today, I'll be blunt—you're not performing well. Do you understand?"
Ravi nodded, feeling resigned.
00:11:27
Returning to his office, Ravi slumped into his chair, noticing a note placed centrally beneath a paperweight. Someone ensured he would notice it. Removing the paperweight, he read the printed message: "Be at Prince Square at 6:30 PM today." Ravi had no clue who sent it. He called his personal secretary's extension.
"Did anyone visit my office?" Ravi asked.
"I don't know, Sir," Harish replied.
"There's a note on my table. Any idea who left it?"
"No, Sir."
"Contact Central Control. Check CCTV footage outside and inside my office. If possible, review it yourself. I need to know who was here."
"Understood, Sir."
After hanging up, Ravi stared at the note, feeling helpless. Something about it felt ominous. He couldn't fathom its origin or intent. Perhaps it was from the bloodless girl—a possibility he couldn't dismiss. He eagerly awaited the CCTV footage. If it confirmed her presence, he'd face an undeniable threat. It'd disprove Dr. Malhotra, Kavita, and Bikash but offered no solace. If she existed, death loomed closer.
The intercom's ring snapped Ravi from his thoughts. Harish's extension number blinked on the display.
"Yes, Harish, any news?" Ravi answered hurriedly.
"CCTV cameras in our wing aren't operational today. No footage is available," Harish reported.
"Okay," Ravi replied, crestfallen, replacing the receiver.
Reflecting on the day's events, Ravi suspected the note came from the bloodless girl. The malfunctioning cameras seemed too coincidental. Was she still watching him? Death seemed imminent.
CONCLUDING REMARKS 00:13:55
And that, dear listeners, was Chapter 8 of 'SHE WANTS TO KILL' titled 'The Boss Is Always Wrong.' We witnessed Ravi's professional pressures mount as he faced a stern warning from his boss, Mr. Jacobs, about his performance. The tension was palpable as Ravi grappled with the dual challenges of workplace stress and the eerie, ominous note that seemed to signal another supernatural encounter.
As we move forward, expect more twists and turns as Ravi's reality blurs with the supernatural. Next week, we will delve deeper into the mysterious note and its implications for Ravi's fragile mind.
Don't forget to visit our websites for updates and additional content, and subscribe to our YouTube channel. Your support on Patreon will help us bring you more episodes filled with suspense and mystery. Also, check out my training program, SPOKEN ENGLISH FOR NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS, designed to help you gain confidence and fluency in English.
Thank you for joining me on this eerie adventure. Until next time, keep your senses sharp and your lights dim, for the shadows are never far away. Stay curious, stay cautious, and always be ready for the unexpected.
Following my talk, enjoy the thematic music for this episode titled 'Why is the Candle Flickering?' This AI music composition perfectly captures the episode's eerie and unsettling atmosphere. As Ravi navigates his ghostly encounters and the chilling presence of the bloodless girl, the haunting melodies of this piece underscore the tension and fear that permeate his experiences. The music enhances the narrative by reflecting Ravi's inner turmoil and the persistent sense of dread that defines his journey. This piece is an auditory embodiment of the episode's suspenseful and mysterious themes. This is Biswajit Banerjee signing off.
THEMATIC MUSIC – WHY IS THE CANDLE FLICKERING? - AN AI MUSIC COMPOSITION BY BISWAJIT BANERJEE 00:16:12
OUTRO 00:18:58
Thanks for listening to OBSCURUS. If you like what you heard, please subscribe and visit biswajitbanerjee.com for more information about Biswajit's books, movies, documentaries, and other creative pursuits. We shall see you next Wednesday with another episode of OBSCURUS. Till then, take care!
