by Rahul Badami
“I heard that terrorists attacked a military facility in Karak and tried to launch missiles against New Delhi. Your soldiers bravely fought them and defeated them.”
“Oh, I apologize. I am not aware of any such event.”
“Moreover,” Inamdaar continued as if he hadn’t heard, “your soldiers even launched missiles against the terrorist headquarters and destroyed it killing all leaders of major terrorist groups.”
“What?”
“Yes. I am very pleased that your government is working towards positive policies and confidence-building measures between our countries.”
“Huh?”
“I would go on to say that this is a new chapter in India-Pakistan friendship. Thank you for everything you are doing. Have a wonderful day.”
Inamdaar hung up the call leaving Mian speechless.
Armaan quietly sipped his wine and sighed contently. It was a time to celebrate. He was finally back in his quarters. The return journey was via an Indian Air Force plane that took a circuitous route through Afghanistan, Iran and the Arabian Sea before they reached India. He had slept through most of the journey; the exertions of the past few days had exhausted him.
He looked at Baldev, Roshan and Hitesh and raised a toast. The glasses clinked and he took a deep sip. The liquid burned down his throat and he felt good. The General was supposed to contact them on their return but he hadn’t yet. Anyway, Armaan mused, they deserved a break.
There was a knock on the door.
Armaan rose to answer it. He was surprised to see the visitor. The General had come in person.
“Sir.”
The General ignored Armaan and strode into the room. He still hadn’t forgiven him for his hasty behaviour. The men stood up as he entered.
“How are my boys?” He looked at the gathering.
“Excellent sir,” Roshan replied.
“Great, let’s get straight to business. Something has come up.”
Armaan smiled, “A new mission?”
General Singh looked at Armaan. He remembered his resolve to not let Armaan lead a covert op again. The mission had been eventually accomplished but he still wasn’t sure if Armaan was a fit after what had happened. He turned and gazed at Baldev.
“You boys are to leave ASAP.”
“Where?” Baldev asked.
“Xinjiang.”
**THE END**
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM RAHUL BADAMI:
Dear Reader,
Thank you for reading Operation Deep Strike. If you loved reading the book, I would be much grateful if you could post a short review on Amazon or Goodreads.
Reviews and word of mouth are as crucial for an author’s success as good grades are for a student. I really appreciate everyone who took time to read the story and provided their feedback. Love you all.
With regards – Rahul Badami
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