บท 11: ch-11
Chapter 11: The Big Step Forward
Suraj sat at the long conference table in the Mythic Productions office, the script of Bloody Commando in front of him. The meeting had already been going on for an hour, and the air was thick with a mixture of excitement and tension. Aarav Kapoor, the rising star of Bharat's film industry, had officially signed on to play the lead role of Arjun, and this had caused quite a stir. The production budget, originally set at 10 crores, had now ballooned to 15 crores—5 crores of that going directly into Aarav's pocket.
Suraj had anticipated this. After all, Aarav was a big name, and if he was attached to the project, it meant that Bloody Commando would have a much better chance of bringing in large audiences. In Bharat's booming film industry, star power was crucial, and Suraj knew that Aarav's presence would put Bloody Commando on the radar of every cinema lover in the country.
"We're taking a big risk here, Suraj," Kunal Uncle said, sitting across from him. The older man's brows were furrowed in concern, his hands resting on a detailed breakdown of the budget. "This is more than we initially planned. Aarav's fee has eaten up a big chunk of the funds. The rest will need to be stretched to cover everything—locations, special effects, stunts, post-production…"
Suraj nodded, fully aware of the weight of the situation. "I know, Kunal Uncle, but this is the chance we've been waiting for. Aarav's name will bring people to the theaters. And once they're there, it'll be the story that keeps them hooked. I'm confident this will work."
Kunal's face softened slightly. He had seen Suraj grow over the past few months, his transformation from a stressed young man into a focused and driven filmmaker. Even if Kunal had his doubts, he couldn't deny the spark in Suraj's eyes.
"Alright," Kunal said, glancing at the other team members in the room. "We'll make it work. We'll need to be smart with the remaining budget. No unnecessary expenses, no cutting corners on the essentials."
Suraj smiled, relieved that Kunal was onboard. "We'll be careful. I'm already working with the crew on tightening the shooting schedule to minimize costs."
The meeting continued for another half hour as they discussed final details, shooting locations, and the crew lineup. It was decided that the first leg of shooting would begin in just two weeks. With everything falling into place, it was time to focus on the actual filmmaking.
---
That evening, back at the house, Suraj sat on the edge of Aryan's bed, watching his younger brother pack a small bag. Aryan had been surprisingly quiet all day, though Suraj knew why. Tomorrow, Suraj would be leaving for the movie shoot, and Aryan would be staying at Kunal Uncle's house for the next few weeks. It wasn't the first time they'd been apart, but this time felt different.
Kunal Uncle and his wife, Anitha Aunty, had offered to take care of Aryan while Suraj was away. Anitha Aunty had always treated Aryan like her own son, and Suraj trusted them both completely. Still, it didn't make the separation any easier.
"You know, bhai," Aryan said, glancing up from his bag, "I'll be fine. Kunal Uncle's house is like a second home to me."
Suraj chuckled, ruffling Aryan's hair. "I know you will. But I'll miss you, kiddo. It's going to feel strange not having you around."
Aryan looked up at him with wide, understanding eyes. "I'll miss you too, bhai, but you're doing something really important. And I know you've wanted this for a long time."
Suraj felt a lump form in his throat. Aryan had always been mature for his age, but moments like this made him realize just how much his little brother understood. Suraj had worked tirelessly on the script and preparing for the shoot, and Aryan had never once complained. Instead, he quietly supported him, even if it meant spending less time together.
"I'll call you every day," Suraj promised, pulling Aryan into a hug. "And I'll be back before you know it."
Aryan hugged him back tightly. "Just don't forget to bring me back a cool story from the set."
Suraj laughed, the tension easing. "Deal. And I expect you to tell me all about school when I get back."
---
The next morning, Kunal Uncle's car pulled up in front of the house. Anitha Aunty stepped out with a warm smile, immediately heading toward Aryan to give him a tight hug.
"Look at you, Aryan! You've grown taller since the last time I saw you!" she exclaimed, patting his head.
Aryan blushed slightly, smiling up at her. "Maybe a little," he admitted.
As Suraj helped Aryan load his bag into the car, Kunal Uncle approached him with a reassuring smile. "We've got everything under control. Don't worry about a thing. Focus on the movie."
Suraj nodded. "Thanks, Kunal Uncle. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Kunal chuckled. "You'd manage, I'm sure. But it's our pleasure. Anitha is thrilled to have Aryan over."
Anitha Aunty waved at Suraj from the car. "You just focus on making your film a success, beta. Aryan will be in good hands."
Suraj bent down to give Aryan one last hug before he got into the car. "You be good, okay? I'll see you soon."
Aryan hugged him tightly, then pulled away with a grin. "Go make the best movie ever, bhai."
As the car pulled away, Suraj stood on the sidewalk, watching until it disappeared down the street. His heart felt heavy, but he knew this was just the beginning. He had a film to make—a film that could change the future of Mythic Productions, and perhaps even his own life.
With a deep breath, Suraj turned and walked back inside. The next chapter of his life was about to begin, and there was no turning back now.
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