‘How very noble,’ Trishala sounded resigned. ‘But before you throw away the opportunity of a lifetime, I suggest you ask Leena why she was about to fire you yesterday. Other than the malicious pleasure I will derive from having Ragini’s best friend working for me, I’m also talking big money. You will earn from selling the story and later on, there might be a book deal involved. I’ll need a ghost writer. You think about it. I’d prefer it to be you but if not, I’m sure many others will be interested. There’s always Neelima. I’ll text you my number on your cell phone—yes, I have yours—and I will wait for your answer. You’ve got two days. It was good speaking with you, Polly,’ Trishala said and hung up.

My head was pounding. I placed the phone back on the receiver and sat down.

‘Have you lost your mind, saying no to the biggest exclusive?’

‘Why were you about to fire me yesterday, Leena?’ I asked Comma before she could carry on with her tirade.

Comma looked taken aback, but only for a second.

‘Are you asking for a performance review, Polly?’ she asked sarcastically.

‘No Leena, Trishala asked me to ask you. I already know that you think I am useless. Since you considered firing me yesterday but didn’t, I’m asking if there might be another reason—along with my lack-lustre performance—that led you to the decision,’ I said.

We both knew this was the first time I’d ever answered back to Comma. She looked into my eyes searchingly.

‘From doormat to daring,’ Comma said softly and smiled.

‘There has been talk of reducing staff,’ Comma said, ‘I’m sure you’ve heard the gossip as well. But the Features team is safe—we don’t have so many people and the twins are planning to resign. Also, you’re on probation for another three months anyway and I would’ve made my decision at the end of that period. I didn’t need to reduce numbers—I wasn’t going to fire you,’ Comma said and started looking at the computer monitor, avoiding my eyes.

‘Why then?’ I asked, shocked. I had always presumed Comma would jump at the opportunity to fire me.

‘That night on the terrace, I asked you to focus on your work, Polly. Remember that. Work never lets you down. Also, remember that in the media, no one is your friend. Sinha came and told me I needed to let you go. He’s the assistant editor, I had to,’ Comma said, still staring at the screen.

‘But what has Sinha got to do with me and why—’

‘Ragini asked him to fire you,’ Comma said, ‘because of that night, I think.’

I just stood there looking puzzled.