ho na sake jo bayan darmiyaan

Hello! Here you will find all the written work I have done. Follow the navigation links below :)

[benaamrishtawoh]

Hey Guys! 

I’ve decided to shift all my written work to a separate blog. Here you’ll find all of them, I felt it was more organized, and will be easier to read bc I can keep a more simplistic theme here. All the stories are in the navigation bar - FFs, OS, and AU’s. Please let me know if there is anything wrong in viewing or if you can’t find a story :)

- Esha

[benaamrishtawoh]

Humdard- Part 3

Adiba dressed warm in just a light red trench coat and Junaid eyed her confusingly. “Are you sure that’s enough? It’s going to be in the negatives tonight …” Adiba gave a crooked smile and went for the driver’s seat. “Don’t worry.”  I won’t need it for long anyway, she thought to herself. “Wait, what are you doing in the driver’s seat?” “Mr. Junaid Mazin Khan, you have two options, the passenger seat next to me, or the passenger seats in the back. Your choice.” Good God this girl is so dominant man. Junaid obliged and took a seat in the front. He couldn’t understand why it was so important for her to drive to the Hotel, she’d be driving for a good two and a half hours, three if there was traffic! Oh well, can’t question this lady … Twenty minutes later Junaid realized they weren’t heading to their Hotel … they were heading to the airport … What the bloody hell! “Adiba! Uh where are we …” “Surprise hai, come on” Adiba parked the car and Junaid unloaded their luggage. “Can you at least tell me where we’re going at least if not to the hotel?” “Why? You think I’m kidnapping you?” “NO! Why would I think …” “So what, you don’t want to be kidnapped by me?” He realized she was pulling his leg. She loved the look on his face when she pulled such antics. She loved this vulnerable side of him, it gave her the urge to just take his hand and hold it forever. “Adiba! You’re not funny!” Junaid paced behind her as she hurried to the checking counter. – Adiba and Junaid’s seats were on the odd side of the plane, so a third seat was empty. “Here you can have the window seat, you probably like it.” Adiba played with the belt of her coat, “Uh actually, you can sit there, im not too keen on looking down ten thousand feet below me.” Junaid chuckled at how kid-like she could be sometimes. “Fine, I’ll take it.” He took off his black leather jacket and placed it on the overhead, taking Adiba’s too. He headed to the restroom only to come back and see another man sitting on the left side of Adiba and Adiba sitting as far to the right as she could. He watched her squirm. She had taken her coat back from the overhead as well. Junaid didn’t like the sight of this. “Excuse me, I need to get through mister,” Sounding as monotonous as ever, Junaid pointed to his seat and the man made space for him to get through… But Junaid stopped at Adiba’s seat and whispered to her to move over. “Junaid, it’s a window seat, I don’t want to-“ “Adiba, uss taraf beht jao, abhi.” “But, Junaid, I-“ “Main hoon na? Relax and move over!” Adiba felt his voice bellow and she listened to his command. Junaid sat down in the middle and the man looked at him sheepishly. He inched closer and whispered so just the two of them could hear, “Yours? Just married eh? You’re a winner ma dude” Junaid glared at the man and if he had it his way, he’d have altered this man’s face and body. Before he could respond, Adiba held his arm back, “jaane do (let it go), please” Junaid sighed and listened. A few minutes later the man fell asleep. Junaid hoped he wouldn’t wake up the whole flight. He looked to his right at Adiba and saw how she positioned herself … even if they hadn’t worn wedding rings, people would have assumed they were a couple just by how close she was sitting next to him … if she moved another inch, she’d be on his lap! A tiny smirk crept on his face- he liked this proximity, he could smell her jasmine perfume even better … He tilted his face closer to her ear and whispered into her ear. “Agar tumne pura flight aise he behti rahi na, flight attendants humein sach mein ten thousand feet niche gira denge …(if you sit like this the whole flight, the flight attends will surely throw us off)” Adiba turned her face only to feel his cold winter breath so close to her face…, their lips centimeters away, her cheeks flushing red as she realized how close she really was … she gulped and moved away.  Junaid’s smirk was even more evident now. As she positioned herself properly once more, Junaid continued speaking again … “Ab toh humne plane mein beht gaye hai (now we’re even sitting on the plane!), can you tell me now! You didn’t even let me see the tickets or look at the dashboard in the center area!” “Kya yaar shakal dekha khud ka? (Have you seen your face!) Relax. Last night when you fell asleep I opened up my laptop and booked tickets to my … uh… penthouse. There’s not much to do on the east coast during the winter, so I thought we go some place warm …” “Okay,  and where exactly is this warm place?” Before Adiba could answer, the flight attendants came around and started their instructions and the pilot announced take off. “Good morning people. Welcome to American Airlines. Please fasten your seatbelts, we will be arriving at Los Angeles Airport in 6 short hours. Enjoy your flight.” Junai’s blood went cold. Los Angeles? California. His fists clenched into hard balls. He heaved in and didn’t heave out for the longest time. He felt his adrenaline rush and his ears begin to pop as he and the rest of the passengers floated into the air … If he could he’d jump out of the plane right now, but he looked over to his right and saw how peacefully Adiba was looking through the magazines, how softly her hair fell across her face,  how her eyes twinkled … She looked at him and down to his clenched fists and her eyes flickered, “Junaid? Are you okay? Do you get motion sickness? Do you need water? Here drink this…” Junaid didn’t know what to say or how to react. He  drank the whole water bottle and nodded at Adiba, “I .. I’m fine.” “Are you sure?” Junaid nodded. “Ah okay, you scared me for a second. It’s only a six hour flight any way; we’ll be there before you know it!” “Take your own advice madam, the clouds won’t come and take you.” Junaid tried smiling, trying to divert his own attention. Adiba yawned, “Anyways, I’m going to nap okay? I spent the whole night searching these tickets and I can’t explain how tired I am. We’ll land at around 2pm New York time, so 11am Cali time, and then we can go and do something and ….” Slowly her voice trailed off and her head fell upon Junaid’s shoulders. Caught off guard, he looked at the new weight on his shoulders … he was worried, he was scared. Should he tell her? Or should he just be strong and start fresh? Worry fell upon his face … She doesn’t deserve a broken man like me. The same strand of hair from earlier fell across her soft face once again and out of compulsion, he swept it back behind her ear and rested his hand on her cheeks for a bit… She hung onto his arm and moved in closer, even in her sleep she was scared of the height … Junaid moved his lingering hand to her shoulders and held her while she slept soundly … Ya Allah, help me be strong. Don’t let me disappoint her, please.

– The tall brown palm trees fell over the penthouse in such a way that it almost seemed like it was the guardian of the landscape. Junaid muttered an expression of astonishment as their car pulled through in the drive way. “Welcome to my … our penthouse Junaid …” She leaned against the car with her hands folded at her chest as she smiled at the view. (link to penthouse: x, x) “Our?” “Haan … I mean, when I had this made, I had this vision that one day when I’m married, this would be my husband and my getaway, our relaxation from the hectic world, where it’d just be the two of us, where we would just sit down and read, or watch the sunset or look out to the Hollywood Hills … so, yeah, you are my husband, so this is no longer just my penthouse, it’s our penthouse …” She tried to be as casual as she could, she knew that if he found out she built this house in the name of the love she had for him, he’d probably flip out … “Wow … this is beautiful Adiba, you have a great eye, must say…” “Ha! I know … let’s go inside, come on” Junaid stopped at the doors and saw a wind chime hanging, whistling a peaceful tune, swaying to the beats of the wind. Below it, he noticed a small plaque, the initials AJ carved in to them in silver … AJ? What could that stand for? Adiba and Junaid? NO way, it can’t be, she had this house built before there were any talks of our marriage so how … He shook the idea from his head. Adiba noticed Junaid was staring at the plaque and quickly clarified. “Ah AJ, it stands for ‘Aashiyana Jaan e Janaan’, House of the Sweetheart…” Junaid raised an eyebrow, “Impressive …” He wasn’t too convinced, but he didn’t sweat it. He stepped inside and took in the sight of the visuals in front of him… this house screamed Adiba. Every corner represented a spectrum of Adiba’s personality, the modernesque furniture, the abstract frames, the color of the curtains … each and everything held an ounce of Adiba. Junaid walked around the house and analyzed everything, still in awe. Moreover, the lights that entered through big glass windows made the house even more indulging, it’s just like how she illuminates my life and … once again, before he could finish his thought, Adiba started talking as she unpacked the luggage in the bedroom. “You know, the house, I designed and decorated how I wanted it to be for the time being. I thought once my husband comes, we can change things and adjust stuff around to what he likes and-“ “No” Adiba looked at him puzzled. “It’s perfectly fine the way it is, it’s a beautiful, beautiful house. And why not, when the imaginer has such a beautiful mind, the house has to reflect …you know” Junaid sat down on the bed and placed his hand under his chin as he watched Adiba’s eyes flicker to the floor and her cheeks flush again. I love that color on her cheeks, gosh! Why does he do that to me, ya Allah, how will I spend the next week! – Adiba dressed in a turquoise blouse and a beige maxi skirt. She had been missing the summer weather and was absolutely ecstatic to be wearing such light clothing. She grabbed a side purse and her sunglasses. She stepped out of the bedroom to go call Junaid and found him leaning against one of the windows, lost … Since they had landed, Junaid felt his stomach tie in knots, and the longer he stayed, the tighter the knots got … he wanted to leave, he thought he’d never come back … never come back and have to face the memories he shoved deep down in himself … “Junaid are you ready?” She saw he was still in the same black tee and track pants from the flight. “Junaid, why haven’t you changed yet?” “Hello?” He wasn’t responding, and this time she kept a hand on his shoulder, “Junaid, I’m talking to you … “ Junaid stepped out of his trance and looked at Adiba puzzled, “hmm?” “I asked, why haven’t you changed yet? We were going to go to the beach remember?” “uh hmm, yeah…” He walked back to the bedroom, running his hand through his hair. Adiba shrugged, he’s probably still getting over the motion sickness … A few minutes later, Junaid stepped out in khakis and a light turquoise tee that showed off his broad shoulders and muscular arms. “Uh … I thought you know, we could match our outfits … I guess… Chalein? (Shall we?)” She giggled and grabbed the car keys. “Wait, you’re driving again? Let me drive!” “Junaid, you haven’t been here before, we’ll get lost, im driving come on!” She giggled a little more. She loved the change in their approach to each other now. Junaid’s head fell as he followed behind, hands in his pocket. “Yeah … right, I don’t know this place …at all” “Kuch kahan tumne?” (Did you say something?) He shook his head. – It was a cool day, the winds had calmed down from before. The beautiful blue waves of the Pacific crashed at her feet, her hair blowing behind her. She looked back at him and found him sitting on the sand, hands around his knees, looking out … more like zoning out into the ocean … She shook her head and ran back to him and sat down next to him. “You know, you’re quite a boring person. Such a shame. You seemed to be so cool back in high school” “I am NOT a boring person!” “Oh really? So am I the boring person? The whole time we have been here, you’ve been sitting here exactly like this! It’s much more fun to stand in the water than to just watch it you know …” He really wasn’t in the mood, but he thought back to what he thought during their flight … I don’t want to disappoint her… “Ugh come on! What are you thinking! Live Junaid, come!” She grabbed his arm before he could hesitate anymore and ran to the waters. Opening her arms wide, she let the LA sun reflect on her face and twirled around … Why can’t I be like her? With no care in the world … happy, peaceful … Junaid’s eyes began to water and just then she splashed some water onto him, running backwards, for she knew he’d get her even worse. He ran after her, but she was far too fast for him to catch, and then she fell … she couldn’t swim, she was drowning … Black and white images flashed in his mind, goose bumps formed all over his body, he became numb. His mind echoed that horrific shrilling scream … He dived into the water and picked Adiba up, his heart beating frantically. He placed her on the sand, “Are you okay? Adiba, are you fine?” Adiba coughed a little and sat upright, clearing her throat. “Yeah I am, relax it’s -“ “Relax? What relax! Don’t tell me it’s okay! You don’t know how to swim and you ran into the water, have you gone mad? Do you know what could have happened? You could have, you …” “But listen, nothing happened right? I’m okay! Why are you getting so upset, it’s okay-“ “No it’s not okay! Why can’t you understand?” He grabbed her by the shoulders, he was practically screaming at her now. His eyes had turned cold with pain once more, his teeth grinding against each other. Adiba didn’t know what to do, his eyes scared her … she began to whisper, “Junaid, I am okay, please.” He loosened his grip on her. “Come on, the sun’s going to set soon, and you’ll catch a cold in that …” He grabbed the car keys from her purse and sat in the driver’s seat. “hey, I told you, I would-“ “Tum bohut bolti ho, pata hai tumhe? Chup chap beht jao (Did you know, you talk a lot? Sit down quietly!) ” Junaid rolled his eyes and started the engine. Adiba murmured under her breath, “Itna gussa kyun karta hai yeh, naam Tom Riddle hi rakhna chaiye tha maa ko, uff” (Why does he get so angry, Mom should have kept his name Tom Riddle) “I have a nose” He bellowed. “Ha, very funny” Adiba rolled her eyes and smiled. Junaid wanted to do the same, but he couldn’t. He just experienced déjà vu … a scary déjà vu. - Junaid pulled up into their driveway and told Adiba to go and change. “Suno, I’m gonna head to Nick’s Coffee Shop down in Beverly Hills, I’m not in the mood to eat, so don’t wait for me or anything like that.” Adiba nodded and started to head into the house when a thought striked her and she turned back. Junaid bit his tongue when he realized what he said. Crap! “Wait, how did you know about Nick’s Coffee Shop?” Adiba looked at him skeptically. “I uh, I saw, I mean I looked it up, earlier I mean… yeah” Adiba stared at him and decided to just let him go. - It was around 8pm and Junaid still hadn’t come back … it had been a little over two hours he had left too. By now Adiba had changed into a night robe and clipped her hair back. She thought to call him, but she thought against it, maybe he wants space after what happened at the beach. She put her glasses back on and picked up her novel when the door bell rang. She rushed to open the door and a huge weight came crashing on top of her. What the hell! “Junaid? What happened?” Junaid stood up properly and looked at Adiba and gave a goofy smile. “Nothing at all chashmish” He pushed her glasses down and giggled. Adiba crinkled her nose as she smelt the horrible stench of alcohol. Oh my god he’s so drunk! “Junaid, come upstairs, you need to sleep, come on.” She tugged on his arm and dragged him to their room, but before she could do anything else, he fell on top of her on the bed. Adiba’s heart raced, never had they been this close and never did she imagine she would be this close to him in real … dreams were a different story of course. Junaid in his intoxicated state moved away the hairs from Adiba’s face and took her glasses off and giggled even more, “Chashmish, you are toooooo cute, did you know that?” Was he being for real? He pouted and furrowed his brows, “why did you do this Chashmish? You know, I care so much, I don’t like being away from you…” Adiba was confused beyond belief; ugh he’s just speaking gibberish. He needs to get off of me now! But of course, again, before Adiba could push him off, he pushed her back down and leaned close to her ears … “Tumne kyun kiya aisa, kyun Chashmish?” (Why did you do these Chashmish, why?) Yeh Chashmish chashmish kya laga rakha hai! Aur aur, maine kiya hi kya hai? What is he talking about! “Junaid, dekho tum abhi hosh mein nahi ho (you’re not in you senses), please uh, get off-“ “Nope, I am not letting you go, nope! I want answers!” He moved even closer to her ears. She could hear him breathing now … his breath was cold against her warm skin. She shook under his weight. He nuzzled into her neck and kept whispering things she couldn’t understand anymore. What is he doing … Her hands reached to the back of his neck as he whispered some more and nibbled behind her ear … She closed her eyes, this felt so right to her, how she longed any kind of touch, she couldn’t think no more her thoughts has blurred. “Why didn’t you …” Junaid began sniffling, his voice was cracking. “Why… why … Leila, why” His sobbing came to a stop and his voice trailed off. Her hands slid from the back of his neck and one heavy tear strolled down her flushed cheeks. Xxxx

[benaamrishtawoh]

Humdard- Part 2

It had been a long and tiring day and the only thing Adiba wanted to do was go into her room, sorry … their room. But Junaid was nowhere to be seen after they had arrived to his apartment. Adiba didn’t know he lived away from his family. Adiba sighed as she got tired of waiting and sat infront of the vanity and started to take her ornaments off. This is going to be a huge struggle.She grabbed her phone after she freshened up and decided to text him just when he came through the doors. She opened her mouth to ask where he was all this time, but seeing his dreary eyes and shiveled hair, she decided against it. J: ah, Adiba, it’s late. Why don’t you go to sleep? A: I’ sure you’re equally tired, right? Come go to sleep. Adiba fixed his pillows and told him to sit down so she could talk to him. A: Listen, I can understand this is hard for you. Trust me I can. As your wife now, I whole heartedly will not ask anything from you until I know that you are ready, even though it is my right to demand and want. All you have to do is tell me and I’ll listen to everything you say. Junaid played with the end of his white kurta and tried avoiding eye contact, but Adiba was already affecting him. She put a hand on his shoulder, trying to tell him to turn around and face her but he only gave a weak smile and left to go to the balcony. Adiba sighed, At least he smiled, she thought. She fixed the side pillows on the bed and placed them in the middle, thinking he would come back soon to sleep. “… as-salatul khairum-min an nawm, as-salatul khairum-min an nawm,” Adiba’s phone rang and beeped loud. It was time for her Fajr prayer, and for her, her prayers were everything. After coming out from the washroom and putting on a scarf, ready for prayer, she saw that Junaid’s side of the bed was empty …. Actually she found it in the same condition as it was when she went to sleep- untouched. Did he fall asleep in the balcony? Ya Allah! She slid the door open and found Junaid laying on the balcony swing, fast asleep, strands of his hair covering his forhead, his hands crossed over his chest. He was shivering a bit too, Octobers in New York could get quite cool. Quickly, Adiba grabbed a small shawl from her suitcase and brought a cup of black coffee for him to have when he woke up. It was too early now to wake him up from his sleep … I don’t think he gets enough of it she whispered to herself. Placing the cup on the side table, she moved forward to do her prayers and reading a few verses from the Quran, it was getting late. Even after she was done, she saw Junaid hadn’t moved from the swing. She slipped off her scarf and wrapped it around her neck and decided to sit on the extra chair on the balcony. She stared at his face for what seemed like forever. The sun had risen by now and made Junaid’s features stand out even more; his chiseled jawline, covered in brisky little hairs, the little mole on his nose, the shape of his eyes …. His hairs that fell on his forhead and tickled his face then and now … Adiba looked away, and wiped a tear. Ya Allah, it’s been so many years. I had given up hope so long ago and never thought we could ever happen. Even today, even though he’s so close to me, he’s so far. I’ll never understand your ways …Adiba sniffled a bit as she composed herself when she heard Junaid waking up.  Barely awake and trying to process Adiba’s figure infront of him, Junaid raised an eyebrow as he found himself covered with a shawl. A: “Good morning” J: “hmm … Morning…” Adiba figured she’d leave now; maybe he wasn’t ready for a conversation since he just woke up. Just then she felt a tug on her wrist and sat back down. Junaid nodded his head, signaling her to sit with him longer. She furrowed her brows and put on a smile and nodded back a what’s up. J: Sorry … uh … first night and all … I’m such a shitty person … Junaid’s head hung down and Adiba began giggling and soon it turned into the sound of a beautiful laughter. A: When will you get over thinking so badly of yourself? I told you last night, I’m giving you time, as much as you need, as much as you want. Relax. J: You know … you’re the first girl that’s ever given me all their time … You’re the first one who’s said they’re ready to wait… Thank you and Sorry again … you deserve so much better … A: Oh ho ! You talk so much, stop being so formal at least. It’s really weird and I don’t like it. Adiba giggled again and Junaid couldn’t help but reciprocate the same, she was contagious. A: Come on, it’s almost9 am, we should head to Maa’s place … J: Maa ? A: Your Ammi She smiled and went back to their room. Junais got up and noticed the cup of black coffee. Ehh it’s so cold now… but still, she thought about getting me something … and she’s already calling my mother hers … what is this girl … what did I even do to deserve someone like her? – It’s been a month now since Adiba and Junaid have been married. Things were still very much the same. Junaid didn’t talk much and Adiba was out of the house all day at her clinic. When she came home, she would find him fast asleep either or standing mum in the balcony. On cold November nights like those, she tried her luck to strike a conversation, to make his heavy heart feel a little less of a burden. She’d succeed at first but the conversation died too quick and he would move on to go to sleep or go do some work. It was now the first day of December and Adiba came home a little early, with the snowed in warnings, all the small clinics, major chain stores, offices and schools closed early. She shook her umbrella and put it aside and took off her coat as she held the mail in one hand. A: Junaid! Are you home? Junaid! Adiba called for Junaid urgently. A: ugh Junaid where are you? Look, Maa mailed – Oh! Maa? As-salam walaikum, Aap yahan, iss waqt, mausam bhi toh kharab hai na … (Hello, Mother, you’re here, at this time, the weather is bad too …) Mother: Walaikum as salam … main chali jaaungi who sab chodo… (Hello, I’ll go, don’t worry about that) I came over, I hadn’t seen you two in a few weeks now, you’re both busy these days, so I came and dropped by. Adiba smiled and then remembered that she just saw a mail from her mother in law. A: Uh, Maa … we got a mail from you? What is this? M: Uh uh … don’t open it just yet! Let’s wait for Junaid na! Oh look he’s here, Come here Junaid, hurry J: As salam walaikum mom, what brings you here? M: Tu hi bata ab main kya karoon, mere bête aur bahu toh mujhe bhul hi gaye hai, par main toh bhul nahi sakti na. Ye tum dono ke liye meri taraf se ek chota sa gift hai. (You tell me now what do I do, my son and daughter in law have forgotten me, but I can’t; This is for you two from me, a small gift) Junaid looked and Adiba and opened the envelope. Honeymoon Package at Taj Mahal Casino, Atlantic City, New Jersey … OH MY GOD MOM! Junaid’s eyes widened and he yelled out a Mom. Adiba jumped a little and decided to look over at the things from the envelope and equally widened her eyes. She knew Junaid wasn’t into these things and this might just make things awkward. Right when Junaid tried to speak, Adiba butted in and took over A: Maa look, this is a very sweet gesture, seriously thank you. But I am so busy, especially in December, I have so many patients and it’s just- M: oh ho! Please, you work too much, I’m sure you can figure some dates out. No ifs or buts. J: But Mom, I really don’t – M: Shut up. Jabse nikkah hua hai, tum dono kahin nahi gaye ho. Sara din kaam mein lage rehte ho. (Ever since you guys got married, you haven’t gone anywhere, always busy in your work!) Now please, this is my gift to you two. If you two deny this, understand I’ll be very hurt. OKAY, Khuda Hafez. Junaid’s mom waved a big good bye and headed out the door as Adiba followed to lead her out. She came back and found Junaid still holding the tickets. She grabbed the tickets from him with a jerk and ripped them up and threw them in the closest trash bin and started heading up stairs without saying a word to Junaid. Shocked at her behavior, he followed her into the room. J: Adiba why did you just- A: If I hadn’t you would have J: But- A: Listen, it’d hurt more if you ripped it up and threw those away, and im not going to sit and dream on something that’s only gonna make our relationship even awkward. We’re fine the way we are right now, and I don’t want something to happen that even this little interaction between us goes cold. It’s really okay, and those tickets are just , ugh, I’ll tell Maa I never got my holidays, she’ll understand. Go to sleep. Good night. That night Junaid pondered upon a lot of things. He was hurting Adiba. She never showed that she longed to receive something back from this relationship. He had no reason to not give her a little attention. She was always trying so hard to take care of him, to make sure he was never found in awkward situations with her. And all he was doing was being a cold asshole. He couldn’t even start a conversation. She had to initiate everything. I should do something. — A few days had gone by and Adiba began coming home really late and Junaid began working from home just because. *ring ring* Junaid’s call? That’s rare … must be important…  Adiba picked up quickly. A: Hello? J: Ya, Adiba? Uh… Where are you? A: I’m coming home soon … why? Is everything okay? J: ahm, yeah everything’s fine. Okay bye A: Hello? Hel- Hello? That was strange, what’s going on? Adiba placed her handbag on the passenger seat and drove home quicker than ever, worried. She opened the doors and jumped at the box that hung in front of her from the door. She took the box off the strings attached to it from the ceiling and closed the main door. She called out to Junaid. Junaid? What is this? She sat on the dining table and decided to open the box since Junaid hadn’t responded after a few calls. Honeymoon Package at Taj Mahal Casino, Atlantic City, New Jersey- Deluxe suite. Adiba’s eyes bulged out of her sockets, he has got to be kidding me! Junaid came out from the kitchen with a glass of water for Adiba and greeted her a hello, acting as if everything was normal. She took the glass and put it back on the table. A: Junaid what is this? Junaid shrugged. “They’re tickets” A: I can see that! We talked about this Junaid! What are you doing! At this point, Adiba was frustrated with Junaid. Things weren’t anything husband wife like between them and she knew they wouldn’t be for a long time …. so what the hell is he doing with these new tickets? J: Adiba? Come here, sit. Junaid grabbed her wrist and made her sit on the sofa next to him. Adiba squirmed, with a single touch she knew she’d lose it, and this was not the time. J: You’re a crazy girl you know that right? Adiba looked at him shocked. “Excuse me, what?” J: You want to go somewhere with me right? You want to spend time with me … Why can’t you just say it. You spend hours at your clinic so you can avoid me and ignore your own desires … Why did you have to rip apart the tickets the other night. I would have gone. A: You would have Junaid, but you wouldn’t want to. It’s different. You did this because you feel pity right? You feel guilty right? I told you it’s okay. I don’t care, really. She got up again and Junaid pushed her back down. J: God will you sit down and listen! You’re a horrible liar Adiba. At least, in these few months I’ve figured that out. You can easily get days off from work. I called your reception wanting to speak to the head doctor to request for your days off and they told me you were head doctor. Why did you lie? A: Junaid … I … look, I don’t want to go okay. I know you’re not ready and you don’t want to go either, and it’s just- J: But what if I say I do want to go? A: It’s okay, you don’t have to say sorry- wait what … Junaid raised his eyebrows and smirked a tiny bit. A: You … uh… you want to go? J: Remember the night of our nikkah? You said I could ask anything, and you would listen? Can I ask something tonight? Adiba didn’t say anything and Junaid still continued. J: You know, all these months … the passing days, you’ve never left my side, even though you come home so late and leave so early in the morning. You still go out of your way to do things for me or just try to make me feel … happy. At first, I wasn’t too comfortable, honestly. And i was quite skeptical. I thought this marriage was a joke. But now … Adiba… there’s something about you… and I feel lonelier without you… I really do. Maybe I can’t take this to a whole new different level right away and im taking longer than ever and making you wait …  but … do you want to go on this mini vacation with me … as friends? Adiba, i’ve gotten used to having you around … I NEED you, I need a friend like you … A: Idiot J: excuse me? A: What excuse me? Did you think I was being this nice to you because i had nothing better to do? My kindness doesn’t go forth to strangers so easily you know. I’ve always thought of you as a good friend Junaid. Stop being so silly!

Junaid laughed a little bit and Adiba stared in awe. He looks so heavenly, Ya Allah, why can’t you let him laugh like this all the time. Ease his pain please. She tried hard not to tear up. J: So ? A: So … what? J: Are you coming with me? A: No. Adiba got up and started heading to her room, and again, Junaid followed behind her. He knocked on the door hastily. J: Adiba, come on, I want us to have a good time together, please? We don’t have to do anything honeymoon like- Adib- Adiba opened the door and Junaid found a pillow coming at 9876374824 mph hit his chest. A: GOD, I was kidding! Go pack! Adiba giggled in breaks as she packed her belongings while Junaid followed suit, making sure to never break away his eye sight from her … One week, alone, away from our everyday lives … Im trying to move on, trying to move on … let me do something right for once … Junaid zipped his suitcase and set it aside. xx

[benaamrishtawoh]

Humdard- Part 1

He shivered as he leaned on the wall, head sulking, tears overflowing from his hazel orbs. It wasn’t the first time he felt useless, but for the first time ever, he felt guilty- like everything was his damn fault. He sat motionlessly on the floor and clenched his fists. Closing his eyes, as the tears continued to flow, he tried to get away from his horrific reality. Why didn’t I listen? Why did I keep running away? For the first time he felt anger boiling in him, anger boiling for all those lies and cover-ups, for all those ignorant remarks, for all the times he was Jay. He was told over and over this wouldn’t last, but he wanted to believe … only to be a mere pawn, a dupe- he’d become a use and throw away napkin. He continued sitting on the floor until the scorching rays hit the side of his face. He awoke with a jolt. The same dream, the same horrific dream over and over again. He was terrified to close his eyes; every time he did, that night would float to the surface. Life became boring, almost gray. Not around him, but for him. He got out of bed and pulled a black v-neck t-shirt over himself after he freshened up. Taking a closer look at himself in the mirror, he gawked … negatively. I look hideous. “Jay! Jay! Honey, are you awake? Ahh I’ve been calling for you for so long.” He turned around. His dear mother, he wondered what was so new today. “Junaid Mom, Junaid.” He sighed. His own mother forgot his name. “Ah, yeah. Here, come here, sit.” Junaid sat besides his mother at the edge of his bed. She kept a hand on his hand and gripped it tight. “It’s been enough now. Two years have gone by. Look at you. You have me worried. Junaid, you know how much you mean to me, after your Dad and Maira’s accident … you’re all that I have left. Even your brother doesn’t have time for me anymore, he’s always so busy!” the elderly woman sighed “Listen, this afternoon we are going to go visit the Malik family … for your marriage.” Junaid’s eyes shot up at his mother’s in disbelief but then he looked down. He hadn’t listened to her before and regretted it so much, he decided to pay heed. “You know them, maybe. You’ve done schooling with their eldest daughter, Adiba, Adiba  Ring a bell?” Junaid tried hard to remember, but he couldn’t. School days? Did she mean the days he tried to pretend to be someone he wasn’t? “Uh maybe Mom, I don’t know” he sighed. He knew his mother wanted best, but the past year his mom has been arranging these matches and not a single family has taken the offer further. “Smile a little please. I think you scare the bride’s family” His mother gave an assuring smile. She was so strong, after all, she had to be. Junaid bit his lips and got up when his mother peeped into the room again. “Oh, uhm… honey, shave a bit please? I think that scares them a little too. Hurry up.” She smiled again, hoping her son would respond back the same but to her disappointment he just turned around, not saying anything. Before going through his closet, he took another look at the mirror. He reached for his overgrowing beard and looked left and right. I do need a shave … maybe not a clean shave… how about a scruff? Hmm… – She was stunning. Junaid gaped as she placed a tray of red tea and biscuits on the table. I went to school with her? How did I not notice? “Adiba is a graduate from StonybrookUniversity. Now she’s working as a doctor at her private clinic.” Oh that’s why, she was smart. Adiba smiled. Gosh, she is perfect. But … she deserves so much better! “Mujhe lagta hai humein bacho ko ijjazat deni chaiye akele baat karne ke liye, hain na?” {“I think we should let the kids talk now, right?”) Junaid’s mom piped in and Adiba’s parents nodded. “Adiba, take Junaid out to the porch will you?” “Jao Junaid, go ahead.” – This is so weird. What the hell do I say? This girl’s a doctor! Ehh, What’s up Doc? I’m going looney for sure. Junaid shook his head, this was going to be another rejection, he was so sure. “So Mister, Jay Mazin Mirza, how are you?” her voice was so lovely. Junaid looked up at her face. The sun was hidden behind the clouds now, but still she felt so radiant … so bright. He cleared his throat. “Uhm, yeah, uh … Junaid .. please, don’t call me Jay … acha nahi lagta (I don’t like it).” She smiled at him funny. He’s even cuter up close and a lot nervous than I thought. She giggled. Junaid found this uncomfortable and cleared the air again. “Uh so, Adiba … Adiba Reham Malik, right? You’re a doctor? Impressive, I mean, of course …uh you must have been quite a student, hmm?” “Ehh, I guess so. I mean if a 4.0 GPA is impressive to you, then I guess I was quite a student. But what to do, Jay … uh sorry … Junaid was so not interested in this stuff in school. You don’t remember me do you?” He bit his tongue. “Uhm, I think I might uh… no, no I don’t” “Of course, even when I came to your house for Eid you never noticed. Why would the cool dude of the school notice me in class if I was so invisible to him at his own home?” She giggled some more. Was this girl complaining or rubbing my ignorance in my face. Damn. :”Waise, mazak kar rahi hoon main (By the way I’m kidding}, Don’t take it seriously. Only wanted to make the atmosphere… less awkward.” He pursed his lips. She is kind of funny … I guess… oh but she’s so beautiful, her eyes! He shook his head once more. “Uh, Adiba … listen, this …. proposal, I’m pretty sure I already know the answer so-“ “And how is that?” “I just … I know. I’m not right for you, you deserve better … You’re a nice girl, really successful. I know Mom is a little too positive about this and pushing this, but I can make her understand…” Adiba set her cup of tea down on the table. “Wait … wait, what makes you think I’m going to reject this?” Junaid widened his eyes and blinked twice and opened his mouth to speak but couldn’t. The petite girl moved all her hair on one side and folded her hands in front of her. “Junaid … listen, I honestly have no problem with this Nikkah. I’ve known you practically my whole life, maybe not like a best friend, or a sibling or anything close, but I know you’re not a bad person.” She took a sip from her cup. “Adiba, look you really don’t know. I’m just not right. I don’t want to go forth with this marriage and make your life miserable … I don’t even think I’m capable enough for marriage, I don’t think I can keep you happy ….” “Marriages are made perfect by imperfect people Junaid. I don’t want a prince charming you know. Just because I’m a doctor and all, it doesn’t mean I need someone just as highly qualified. I just want a nice life partner, someone respectful.” “But that’s what I’m trying to tell you Adiba… I’m not that guy….” “But I think you are … a man who’s strong enough to come clear to wish better for a lady he’s only interacted with for a few minutes … I’ve had lots of marriage proposals come at me Junaid … for my money really … no one’s ever thought about me … the other’s wanted to marry me and eat from my paycheck. You didn’t ask the figures or how many cars I have. And you’re the first one whose come to me in the intention of an actual marriage, you actually thought if you could keep me happy. My previous proposals… no one’s ever talked about making efforts to keep me happy … And, hmm. for the first time… a guy was nervous to talk to me …” she smiled. He was stunned. Wow this girl is …wow. “Adiba, please, I don’t think I’m right for you …” “But I think I’m right enough for your nervous wreck” She giggled again. “Chalo, ammi bula rahi hai (Come, Mom’s calling)” – You know what they say, never delay in the auspicious. It’s been a week since Junaid and Adiba had met and talked on her porch and now it was the Sangeet ceremony. Junaid had lost all sense of emotions related to happiness. He just didn’t know how to cope with it. He fixed the buttons of his sherwani and gelled his hair up. He took a long look at himself in the mirror. I hope this is right … who am I kidding … this is all so wrong! – Talk about lavish! The sangeet location was beautiful! Hues of yellows and pinks and greens allured the cathedral ceiling hall. Drums and dancing girls, little kids and elderly guests eating away- everything was so … happy. But Junaid … he was allergic to happy. Junaid’s mom tugged at the sleeve of his sherwani. He saw hope in his mom’s eyes. That worry that was eating her inside twenty four seven for the past two years disappeared. She seemed to have found her own happiness once again. A tiny smile crept on to Junaid’s lips. After two long hours, Junaid had had enough. This was the most happy he could take before he had an allergic reaction. He was just itching to get up and leave. He hadn’t sat in an atmosphere like this in so long. This was all so alien to him. I haven’t even seen her face all night, how lame! Why even invite the groom. Amidst the already loud crowd, he heard an even bigger reverberation coming from behind him and he turned around quickly. Junaid was staring again and for way too long for his health. God dammit I can not marry this girl, she’s so …. Perfect … and I’m just me … He folded his muscular arms across his chest and watched across the hall- she was ideal in every way- the way the pink dress correlated with the pink hues on her cheeks, the way her plait fell loosely over her side… and that smile! That smile was so genuine, she was so genuine… It would be such a sin for me to disappoint such an angel… I could never

– It was wedding day and Junaid was anxious as ever … well not to get married of course, but to call this off! Thinking day and night has become a bad habit of his, and ever since meeting Adiba … her thoughts don’t seem to leave … as if the thoughts have finally found a home. I have to talk to her, there needs to be some way for me to meet her before this Nikkah, she isn’t even picking up! Junaid was sure this was what he wanted- riddance of his name from Adiba’s even before they were joined. There was nothing wrong with her, in fact, everything was right… except his name to hers … in just a few hours, they’d be husband and wife, and he was not ready to ruin such a beautiful girl … he was too weak and she was far too fragile. – She heard a faint knock at her window as she was making her way down to the hall. The lights were turned off from before and everyone had gone downstairs, but she still decided to check the windows once more. As she approached the window she couldn’t believe the sight. Junaid hung to the outside handle of the window, his feet barely on the outside window sill. He signaled frantically to open the window. Adiba couldn’t handle it anymore and burst into laughter. “Is this how you used to sneak into your girlfriends’ rooms? Very clever” she giggled some more. “Very funny,” Junaid scoffed. “Actually I wanted to talk to you” “Junaid, you do realize we’re getting married right? In like thirty minutes? You can wait a little, can’t you … or … ?” “Why are you so keen on marrying me Adiba, I fail to understand! Maat karo na (Don’t do it!)” “As if iss samein akar main ab naa kar sakti hoon, waise bhi- main kya buri hoon? (As if I can back out at this moment … anyways, am I that bad?)” Now Adiba was taunting him, there was no other way for her to make him understand that she wants this so bad. She looked at him in the little light in the room with pleading eyes. “No Adiba… tum bohut achi ho, bohut… lekin main kharab hoon… tumhare liye {you’re really nice, really … but I’m bad … for you}” Again with the I’m not good enough statement, Adiba was so tired of it! She’d had it! “Isiliye toh tumse shaadi karni hai. Chahe poori zindagi kyun na lag jaye, mujhe tumhari ye galat femi door karni hai- mujhe tumhe dikhana hai ki tum kitna acha insaan ho, jo maine tum mein dekhi hai, jiski wajah se …" (That’s exactly why I want to marry you. Even if it takes the whole life, i want to get rid of your own misunderstanding, i want to make you see you for you, the good human you are, what i’ve seen, the reason that ….) "Jiski wajah se? What?” (The reason that? What?)

“Uh… nothing, uh… Tum jao. Der ho rahi hai, mujhe bhi niche jaana hai” (You go. It’s getting late, I’ve to go downstairs too). Adiba took a quick and fast breath, she spoke too much.

“Tum jaante hue bhi jahanam bula rahi ho” (You’re calling hell knowingly)

She shook her head and chuckled.

“Mujhe aitbaar hai ki ab sirf jannat hi dikhe ga, woh bhi zameen pe” (I have a belief that from now on, only heaven will be seen, that too on grounds). Junaid had left for the hall downstairs. Her room was so dark … but the moonlight creeping through her window illuminated so much. She watched on as he walked off to the other gate. I wish I could tell you why Junaid, I really wish, but now is too soon. xxxxx

[benaamrishtawoh]

Award Show Craze

DISCLAIMER

THIS IS AN IMAGINATION NOT AT ALL REAL It's based off of real people, BUT the story/concept/scene is all my imagination If you have problems with reading offscreen imaginations - i suggest you don't read then. Otherwise - this is just random, writing- with the use of the "real" world. If you are offended, I am sorry. I do not intend to "violate" anything/anyone. It's merely an IMAGINATION. It's ONLY for entertainment purposes!

read on if you'd like :)

--

"Rithvik hurry up !!"

"Oh ho Ashu, im coming, why are you rushing me!"

"Because you're the one that's supposed to drive us and we have to be there at 7, it's 6:20!"

"Chilll, we'll get there- fashionably late"

"Rithvik! I wanna be on the red carpet! You know na how our fans love the red carpet interviews"

"Hmm, remember ZRA's?" he put some gel and spiked his hair.

"Yeah now come on please! You take longer than me!"

"I have to put some extra effort if I've such a beautifully adorned woman next to me... You know how it is" he smiled, eyeing this beautiful woman who stood in front of him- dressed in a spring pink short dress.

Asha blushed. Compliments were always appreciated, especially from Rithvik. She smiled and turned around to look at herself one more time in Rithvik's long black mirror. His room, must say, was very modern and well kept, with a tinge of Indian- just like him.

"Now let's go, im rea-" Rithvik looked at the mirror too as he fixed up his collar button. "Not bad Miss Negi"

"Aakhir choice kiski hai?"

Rithvik smirked and the two headed out to their black French ride.

---

"Dekhiye dekhiye kaun aya hai ek saath!" The two flashed their white smiles at the cameras, walking over to the reporter.

"Look who we have here! Sab ki chaheete jodi- Rithvik and Asha, hamari favorite- Arjun aur Purvi!"

"Asha, must say, aap aaj bohut khoobsoorat lag rahe hai. The pink dress works!"

"Haha, thank you" Asha twirled from side to side, "Achi hai na! Hamari Fashion Police ka choice hai, hain na Mr. Dhanjani"

Rithvik smiled- fans who were warching were bound to trip over, heck, anyone at the very place was bound to fall over.

"Kaun Fashion Police? Hmm?" he dodged the question playfully

"Hmm, Mr Dhanjani urf Fashion Police. Ye bhi aaj kuch bohut hi acha lag raha"

"Jee haan- you too look fabulous! So are you guys excited?! Aap dono perform bhi kar rahe hain hai na?"

"Oh yes, yes very excited! Hmm, we are but-" "BUT it's a surprise! Dekhna parega aap ko!" Asha but in, smiling mischievously.

"Ohh! Come on! Batadijye na! Aapke fans kitne bar puchte hai hume!"

"Un fans ke liye toh ye surprise hai, hamari taraf se" Rithvik winked at the camera, putting an arm around Asha's waist.

"Aap log nominate bhi hue hai, Fresh Face, Supporting Role, aur shayad Jodi ke liye bhi? Iss saal jodi award hidden hai- kisiko nahi pataa kaun nominate hue hai- Which one are you guys hoping for?!"

"Hamesha se- iss sawaal ka jawab ek hi hai, aur woh hai Jodi award! We hope we were at least nominated!"

"Aur saare awards mil jaye toh woh bhi teekh hai, no complaints" Asha laughed, biting her tongue.

"Acha thank you guys, enjoy the show!"

Rithvik and Asha turned around, waving at the camera.

"You wanted to come early for that?"

"Haan, kyun?"

"No, I'm just saying ... Now we have to bear this crowd- we're never going to get through,"

"So?! You'll take me through- gives me a reason to hold on," Asha winked and smiled, grabbing a hold of Rithvik's hand as he chuckled and led Asha out of the ridiculous crowd of celebrities and show coordinators.

-- Indeed that was the most romantic and slow tune the two had performed on- probably the most passionate ever. Dressed in a a light green sari, and Rithvik in a green sherwani, the ligjts dimmed. She breathed heavily as she ran backstage in her embroidered sari, Rithvik following behind her. Asha just pulled a Purvi- shying away from Rithvik's grip as the melody finished, the lights went out, and the crowd roared. They could still hear from backstage the many voices screaming their names- Ankit, Hiten, Wahi, Ragini, Surbhi, and others.

"Uh, Asha, you okay?" Asha straightened up and tried to act normal.

"You want some water? Here-" Rithvim handed Asha a bottle and looked skeptically.

"What?"

"Uh, nothing ... I think you just pulled a Purvi out there..." Asha slapped his arm lightly and drank another sip. Rithvik chuckled, fixing her hair.

"Okay, hurry and change- i think your award is next,"

--

She sat nervously as the anchors held the enevelope in their hands. She wanted this badly- she had faith in her fans, and she hoped for it. She gave a weak smile at Rithvik, who just came down from accepting his award- there was no competition there at least, but here- there was. She bounced her legs lightly- she was so nervous.

"Oh look what we have here! First time ever for Fresh Face Female- we have a tie! Seems like the fans are equally devoted here! There's not even a point difference!"

Asha squeezed her iPhone in her hands- she might have crushed it if she held it any harder.

"Anddd - the winners of this years Fresh Face Female are ... Surbhi Jyoti ... AND... Asha Negi, urf  Zoya and Purvi of Qubool Hai and Pavitra Rishta"

Rithvik shook Asha as she got up, shocked! A side of her expected it and another kept telling her no. Surbhi ran over from her exceptionally good looking Qubool Hai cast and hugged Asha. Two beautiful girls- good friends- winning an award together- how perfect?

Asha screamed and walked up to the stage with Surbhi. The smile on their faces were worth capturing!

Rithvik smiled back from his seat and clapped like crazy. Her achievement was his too- thats just how it was.

--

"And this year, we've decided to change some things around. We've kept nominations of our most popular Jodi award a secret! Dont worry- fans have spoken- indirectly of course. We've put up pictures, questions and videos, and emails, and according to those, we've done our calculations. This kept the suspense up, right guys? So this year, our jodi nominations are as follows, Rishabh and Madhubala, Yash and Aarti, Ram and Priya, Asad and Zoya, Arjun and Purvi, and Mohan and Megha. Congratulations. So we will name our top three - Rishabh and Madhubala, Asad and Zoya, and Arjun and Purvi! Must say guys, your fans are crazy! But winner is one, and that is ... Any guesses?!"

Rithvik and Asha were still quite mum. They looked at eachother and back. How did they even get nominated- Our onscreen jodi is a mess ... Yes, but fans! Oh, they're incredible!

The two had a feeling they couldnt stand the other two pairs- but they hoped they could.

"Our Most Popular Jodi of the year goes to - ... Goes to none other than Arjun and Purvi! Rithvik and Asha, come up!"

The smiles that crept onto their face was priceless. Their team screamed and roared and some of them even huddled the two in for a bear hug!

Asha mouthed an oh-my-god and Rithvik grinned even harder and pulled her in for a hug in front of everyone and then ran to the stage with her, hand in hand!

"Congratulations guys! Even after being separated, you're fans haven't gone anywhere, always by your side"

"Thank you Ronit sir! Firstly, thank you to the fans- thank you guys so much- without you Arjun and Purvi is not possible! We exist because you do! Even if we are separated"

"Arjun aur Purvi judaa hokar bhi hamesha karte aaye hai, karte hai, aur karte rahenge ek dusre se pyaar. Hamesha" Asha's eyes flickered to Rithvik as she spoke.

-- "Ah thank you guys!" "Yes thank you!" "I know right, shocking!"

The two turned around to head the black French ride

"Hey wait up! Aw Ashaaa !!" It was none other than the bubby Surbhi!

"Congrats to you too!" "Omg no, bigger congrats to you two!" Surbhi winked to the two and waved into the passenger window. Rithvik smiled back and a tiny smirk formed.

Asha shook her head and laughed as she said goodbye and jumped into the passenger seat up front.

She leaned back, running her hands through her soft curls, expecting the gorgeous hunk next to her to breeze off driving- which he didnt. She turned her head over to the right. It was her turn to look at him skeptically. What, she questioned him non-verbally.

He shook his head, smiling as he shifted the gear from parked to reverse, backing out of the almost empty lot.

Asha rolled down the windows taking in the cool night air and looked at the awards in her hands. God we did it! Ah our fans did it!

"Rithvik?" "Hmm?" "Aren't our fans fabulous? Look at all this! I doubted it so much- but look!"

Rithvik chuckled a little, "It is true, they are the best."

He drove a little more.

"Negi?" "Hmm?" "Nothing ..." "Oh shut up, that's crap! Tell me!"

"The first award I ever won was with you. This time around, I was nominated for a supporting role, and I got it. And I also won another jodi award, with you"

"What do you mean to say?"

He stopped the car.

"Here, your house." Asha stepped out with her gems and took out her keys as she walked to her door.

Rithvik rolled up his windows and back down, stick his head out.

"Miss Negi !!" She turned around and nodded a what happened.

"I think you're my lucky charm Negi" Embarrassed She smiled as she stepped into her house.

He started the car once more and reached over to his special award- "Screw the other one from tonight, this is the most special one, always will be!"

and he drove off. --

[benaamrishtawoh]

Four Years Later- Part 2

Purvi took out freshly washed clothes from the laundry and chose a cute green dress for her daughter.

“Come here will you, get changed, you’re so dirty,”

“No! I wanna go outside Maa!” Pari made a run for it but Purvi was quick too.

“Why do you bother me so much. Just five minutes Pari,” Purvi complained, plopping Pari on the bed. Purvi loved Pari with all her heart, but boy did crazy and attitude run in her blood. Bilkul apne papa par gayi hai (She’s just like her father) she said to herself mentally.

“Maa!!”

“What?”

Pari waved her dress in front of her, telling her mother to snap out of it and dress her quickly.

“Gosh Pari, you’re one of a kind” Purvi said, rolling her eyes, smiling.

Pari placed a kiss on her mother’s cheeks and ran away again- always up to mischief.

Purvi placed a hand on her cheeks. She really is like her father. He was just as crazy, had an attitude, but always did the unexpected. She heaved a sigh and went back to the kitchen to prepare dinner. It’s been four years … four long years …. Can i just see him once? Just a small glance …

–

“Do you not understand five minutes? I want the car here NOW, do you get me?- Good, you better.”

In less than four minutes a black Mercedes pulled up in his office drive way and the driver frantically stepped out making sure everything was perfect.

Arjun walked down from his office, gave a daring glare to his driver and sat in the back seat.

Pulling out his iPad- he sent out last minute messages and files to his colleagues and employees. Turning it off right before stepping into the airport, he swallowed hard- every visit to the airport gave him a new rush of old feelings. His phone read 8:15 pm- he ignored the billion notifications that beeped on the top bar and slowly rubbed his thumb across the wallpaper. Every time I have to go catch a flight, all these feelings keep rushing through my veins- it’s as if my heart feels some sort of peace by flying close to the heavens- flying close to where you might be. But it fears too that maybe you actually have gone away forever. Each flight I take, I hope to land and see your face first, but I laugh at myself for thinking London, Switzerland, New York, Sydney, Beijing and now Dubai are places I’d find you when i haven’t found you in India. It’s been four very long years. My heart still tells me you’re here, very close … –

The fresh Arab breeze filled up Arjun’s body as he stepped outside of the airport. A white BMW was waiting for him.

His driver stepped out to open the passenger door but Arjun ignored him and signaled the man to let him drive alone.

There was something about the highways of Dubai that Arjun loved. He’d been at Dubai before when in Canada and loved it. He started the car ignition and took off under the blazing hot rays. He pulled on a pair of sunglasses and pressed some fancy button on the roof to open up the sunroof- it was hot, but the breeze was absolutely soothing.

–

Purvi and Aaliyah, a dear friend, crossed the street with Pari skipping along the way in her peach dress.

“Oh please Purvi, you’re still not over this road thing are you? That was four years ago. Just cross with me- you’ll be fine!” spoke Aaliyah, holding the corner of her lightly worn head scarf.

Purvi gave a quite weak smile and followed alongside Aaliyah and Pari, her heart racing as ever. She was doing fine until she got to the middle- she stopped.

“Holy shit!”

He swerved off the right lane and did a 360 to end on the left lane. He ran his hands through his hair and cursed under his breath. “I hope she’s okay”

He stepped out of the car to apologize but Purvi and Aaliyah had already walked across to the other side and Arjun could only see the back of the two women. Who did i almost run over? He squinted and remembered it was the woman in tight jeans and long red kurta, a scarf tied across the neck. Ugh, whatever, they didn’t make a big deal out of it. He loosened the buttons on his collar and rolled up his sleeves. What an entrance to Dubai. But before he could sit back in  his car, he felt a tug at his black slacks. What the? He turned around and saw no one, at least, no one to his eye level. He felt the tug again and looked down and saw a little girl. His heart melted- she was an angel. He opened his mouth to say hi but before he could the girl showed her own tashan.

“Where are you going?”

“Uhm … My hotel?”

“What do you think, you’re all Mister High-Fi, and you can get away with everything?”

“Excuse me?”

“Don’t excuse me Mister High-Fi. You almost killed my mother! Don’t you know how to drive?”

“Doesn’t your mother know how to cross the streets?”

“No!”

Arjun gaped at the little girl. She looks like such a fairy, but boy was she a ruckus. But he couldn’t seem to continue “arguing” with her.

“Pari? Parii !!?!!” Purvi pointed across the street at a white BMW and told Aaliyah to fetch Pari.

Purvi sat on a bench and shook her head. This always happens! And Pari is just unbelievable my God …

“I’m so sorry Mister. Please excuse her!”

“Mausi, what are you talking about. He’s wrong! Didn’t you see-”

“Pari! Come on! Let’s go!”

Mausi?! Hindustani hai, hmm. For some reason, that striked a cord in Arjun. They’re my own people. I should apologize whole heartedly. Arjun opened his mouth to apologize but Aaliyah and Pari were already across the road. He could catch on to a miffled arabic accent when Aaliyah whispered to Pari. He sighed, that was fun. – Purvi sat on the nearby bench, a little shaken- her eyes shut. “La afham Purvi! Onzor! (I don’t understand Purvi! Look!) If i didn’t pull you in time, you would’ve been dead! Come on Purvi! It’s been four years since the accident, why can’t you-” “I ALMOST DIED THAT DAY! What do you mean you don’t understand! My baby could’ve di-"  Purvi’s voice trailed off, as she saw Pari’s eyes widening. She was too small to know anything yet and Purvi wanted to keep Pari away from her past- as much as possible. Aaliyah let out a sigh. "Purvi, come on,  you need to get to work and I’ve to take Pari to school. Let’s go. We’re already late.” “NO WAIT! Aren’t we gonna catch that guy like Dora catches Swiper! That’s not fair! He hurt my maa! No one hurts maa when Pari’s here!" Pari crossed her arms over her chest and stomped her feet on the ground. Purvi ruffled her soft hair and smiled. "It’s okay baby, Maa is fine. Sachi.” “Muchi?" Pari’s blinked her big brown eyes continuously. "Haha, muchi! Now hurry up, Aaliyah mausi’s gonna get mad! I’ll see you at home okay?!” Pari nodded and gave a million dollar smile and kissed her mother’s cheeks and waved her bye as she walked off with Aaliyah. — Purvi walked into her office and felt a little light headed. That morning fiasco was leaving a bad aftermath. After an hour or so of working at her desk as the company’s new Chief Director, Purvi called it a day. There was no way she could go through another seven long hours. She called the secretary and cancelled all her meetings. “But Miss K, we have a big business meeting with AK. Industries today. Mr. AK has flyed in from India for this.” Mr. AK? How ironic …. “If and when Mr. AK comes, tell him it’s rescheduled for tomorrow at 9 alright.” “Okay ma'am, got it." The secretary’s words rung in Purvi’s ears. Miss K, Mr. AK, how weird. When leaving Mumbai, Purvi had signed her name off as Purvi K; which also made it hard for police investigations as they had the name Purvi Deshmukh on records. It was just K for, of course, Kirloskar. She left the town, and the country with that name and had given it off to Pari, just so she wouldn’t ask questions. The K family. Purvi closed her eyes again in regret of her past. We could’ve been perfect. – Arjun opened the company doors and walked quite coolly in the halls when he hit against a woman’s shoulders. "Hey, shit! Im sorry!" He didn’t get a good look at the woman, she was clearly in a rush.

Purvi didn’t look back but held her head as she walked away and from behind waved her hand, signaling she was fine. She hurried out of the office to go home and rest. She had enough of the workload. Arjun looked back at the lady and walked toward the secretary desk. "Hello, I’m Mr. AK, from AK Industries of India. I have a business meeting scheduled with Miss K today, am I correct?” “Yes sir, you did- she just left for an emergency. I have been told to inform you the meeting has been postponed to tomorrow morning at 9 am.” Arjun gritted his teeth. He hated last minute changes with a sick passion. He put on a rather forced smile and said thanks. He went outside to is car and right before he sat, he found a piece of red glass on the arm-ends of his blazer. What the? He looked at piece closely and quickly shut his eyes. He became sweaty, and his fingers shivered a bit. It’s the same bangle … could it be? He remembered the policemen giving him a bag of what was left of her …. It can’t be. Arjun focus. You’re here for a meeting. Shape up dude. — Purvi did some light cleaning in her room. She lived with Aaliyah and her husband Farhan. Farhan was an old friend in India, and through him Purvi started working again in Dubai when she moved. “Maa! I’m home! Masa al-khayr! (Good afternoon) What are you doing! Im hungry!” ‘Hello my baby! How was school? Im cleaning our room, and yes, what do you want! Hot falafels or some pasta!“ Purvi got no reply. She looked around and saw Pari on the bed going through a box of … photos. "Pari?! What are you doing?” “Maa, who are these people! And you look so pretty! What is this for?" Purvi sat next to Pari and took her in her arms as she took the photograph. Purvi smiled a little, so many memories from Janmashtami. The picture was folded a little at the right.  "This is your grandfather Pari, and these are your mausis. This is a festival called Janmashtami dear. Okay? Now come on freshen up, you must be hungry.” “Wait maa, who’s this?" Pari unfolded the picture and Arjun in an electric blue shirt stood next to Purvi, smiling."He’s quite cute maa, who is it!” Purvi heaved. "That’s … He’s … no one Pari, just a chawl neighbor…“ "Only? I find him familiar a little bit, like I’ve seen him somewhere" Pari thought hard, but was unable to recall that this same man was the man she yelled at in the morning. "Drop it Pari! Hurry up and get fresh, I’m making you food." Purvi took Pari off the bed and hurriedly put the pictures away. As Pari went to the bathroom, Purvi lightly caressed the box … trying hard not to tear up. Can I ever go back? —– Arjun changed into a white tee and sweats after having dinner and sat near the hotel balcony as he worked on his laptop. After a few unwanted breezes, Arjun got up to close the balcony doors when he saw the light pitter patter of rain. Rain in Dubai? How strange …. It’s been forever since Arjun had a good shower in the rain … and why would he? How could he … It wasn’t the same alone. "Jab bhi baarish hota hai,  kuch acha hota hai” He laughed at himself and then stopped as he remembered the broken glass piece from earlier. It’s just a coincidence. Go to sleep Arjun, you have a meeting tomorrow morning. —– “That’s strange, look, it’s raining!' Farhan informed from the dinner table, as Aaliyah and Purvi cleaned up in the kitchen. Pari had fallen sound asleep. "Mabrook my dear, i didn’t know you wanted to be a meteorologist" Farhan stuck his tongue out at his wife as he entered the kitchen. Purvi smiled and made herself some tea. "Do you guys want?" Farhan was whispering into Aaliyah’s ears as she giggled. Purvi looked over and rolled her eyes. "Guess they don’t want any. More for me.” Farhan and Aaliyah waved a good night as they went in to their rooms. Purvi smiled again and went in to her room too. She tucked Pari in properly and walked to the other side of the bed to sleep as well. Before doing so, she stood in front of her balcony. It’s not even the rainy season yet … Purvi held a hand out and felt the rain drops fall smoothly in her palms, like blessings from above were being given to her directly. She smiled even more till she noticed a strange cut on her wrist. "What the … ?“ugh, how many more of these will i have to lose from this set? She wanted to keep these bangles safe, they were a special gift, but one by one, pieces would break off. Purvi, go to sleep darling, you have a meeting tomorrow morning, and you had a rough day —– Arjun and Purvi went to sleep soundly in their respective rooms, and a tiny smile of relief crept up on their face, their inner souls knew things would get better eventually, for it was raining of course. ———————-

[benaamrishtawoh]

Four Years Later- Part 1

He looked at the policeman, bewildered. He tried cleaning his ears, making sure he heard right.

“I’m sorry Mr and Mrs Deshmukh. We’ve tried our best and we’ve even assigned our most efficient men on the job,” the policeman took off his hat and held it in his eyes, looking so guilty in front of the people at Deshmukh residence.

Manav gaped wide open and Archana held on to him for supprt, falling to the ground. She couldn’t take it in. She looked at Manav and back at the policemen  to look for hope but neither people could assure her anything.

Arjun stood far from the scene in a corner and his heart literlly broke into pieces, no- actually, his whole life just shattered. He began to freak out, emotionally. He couldn’t believe this and he fought internally to not believe this.

He walked over to the policeman, not being able to take control over his uncontrollable emotions and grabbed the man by his uniform collar.

“You guys can’t do your work right and now you’re giving us an excuse !! I know you didn’t look hard enough! Stop lying to us! She’s not dead!”

“Sir, listen, I understand your feelings, but we are very sorry. Evidence shows that Ms Purvi Deshmukh is no more. We found these two broken pieces of a red glass bangle and an orange dupatta covered in blood from the picture provided. We’ve done our searches in the hospitals too. The bomb blast was so severe that not a single soul survived. All the buses headed out from Mumbai were attacked. We checked all the buses to see if Ms Purvi was listed, and she was and-”

“Shut up! What a nonsensical story! I can get you fired for lying!”

“Sir, please control yourself, this is the truth. Ms. Purvi Deshmukh is no longer alive.”

“You’re lying, no, no … you’re lying, you’re all lying, all of you, Purvi can’t die, she can’t, she can’t …" Arjun’s voice quivered and trailed off. He ran for the door and started his car with a jolt and drove to nowere. He kept driving and driving. Each tear drop that fell from his face threw out each little second spent with Purvi, each little word he spoke to her, and each little gesture he made to the girl. Was it really all over ? His car came to a stop at Sunset Point. He stepped out of the car and  shook his head in disbelief. He really didn’t know how to digest all of what just happened. He had taken the bangle pieces and the blood stained dupatta and held them tightly. These were the only things he had left of Purvi, but somewhere in his heart he felt she was alive, something told him she was safe, but then he looked back at the things he held and what the policemen said. Why is life so cruel to me?

Arjun looked up at the obscure night sky. No stars were gleaming tonight. Hot tears fell down his cheeks again and he yelled at God looking over him.

"From today onwards, I am done with you. You took away my mother from me when I was younger, but I never said anything to you. I fell in love with Purvi, then I came to you and thanked you. And then my love gave me away, even then I didn’t complain to you. I’ve always respected you, but what did you give me? I’ve never complained to you and always respected your greatness God, but what are you doing to me? Why do you want to take Purvi away from me, and that too forever? You want me to be miserable right? That’s exactly what you want from me.” Arjun’s voice might have been heard all the way in New York. His fight with God was justified and from that night he promised himself and God that he’d never step in front of him ever again. Clearly, his whole vision of a powerful one above him was shattered. He’d never asked too much, and when he did, everything went wrong.

He started his car back up and went home. The whole house was empty- not literally though. You couldn’t exactly call a house with about ten people to be empty. But the house lacked happiness, it almost lacked air even. He opened the door to his and Ovi’s room and felt a sudden suffocation overwhelm him. He sat on the couch, holding his head in his hands and tried with all his might to get rid of his agony. He sniffled as he began tearing up again. Hearing his sniffling, Ovi awoke from the bed and stood in front of Arjun. It was evident she was also crying; her eyes were red and her whole face seemed to be hammered.

Arjun looked up to Ovi and broke out crying. At the end of the day, as much as he hated Ovi for playing him and Purvi, she was his childhood best friend. After Purvi, she knew the most about him- it was true. Ovi sat next to Arjun and put an arm around him. It was better she didn’t say anything, and she just heard him out.

“I really love her Ovi, i really do. I can’t live if she’s not here. I can’t do anything Ovi, please, bring her back to me, please" Arjun hugged Ovi. She hesitated to hug him back and as soon as her hands touched his back, Arjun pulled away and apologized for his behavior.

"It’s okay Arjun. I’m sorry too. Go get some sleep”

“I’ll try"

The next day called for a funeral and Arjun, though dressed for it, refused to attend. Everyone came to him to tell him to join and that Purvi’s soul would appreciate it, but he bashed at all of them, telling them it was wrong to do a funeral of someone that’s alive, and second he wasn’t going to step in front of God. He refused to acknowledge Purvi’s death, no matter how much people told him she was and he was acting childish.

He drove back to DK mansion and went into his room and sat on the sofa, scrolling through his phone. Ovi entered a little after, with a large file in hand.

"Arjun, we need to talk” “Hm, yes Ovi? Is something wrong?” “Ah, no, not really- uhm, actually everything is.” Arjun looked on, searching for answers. “These are divorce papers Arjun … Um, listen, I’ve thought about this a lot. And this is the best for us, for our friendship.” “Oh man, Ovi! I am so sorry! I know I’m being a lousy husband, in fact not a very good one! I’m going to try my best Ovi, I know I can keep you happy if I just try, Ovi I am sorry.” “No Arjun, this isn’t your fault. I don’t want you to just move on now just because … Purvi is no longer with us … I can’t live like that. That just shows that if she was here, you wouldn’t try. Arjun I was wrong in the first place to ever force my own decision on you and Purvi. That was very childish and wrong of me. In fact, I never really did love you. I was just … obsessed I guess. I was mad I was losing my best friend.” “But Ovi, we can start again, afresh. I’ll forget everything.” “That’s easy to say Arjun, even I can, but I’ve seen the love for Purvi in your eyes. As much as I try, I can never take her place. Even if we did work out, one day or another, I’ll look into your eyes and I’ll still see love for Purvi in them. I don’t want to put myself in that position Arjun. Look, I’ve signed the papers already, just do so too.” “But Ovi, what about you? What are you going to do? I feel like a total jerk right now.” “Arjun don’t worry! I am planning to go back to Canada and continue my modelling dreams. Who knows, maybe there I’ll find someone who’ll love me as much as you love Purvi." Arjun weakily smiled at Ovi. He felt guilty, but relieved at the same time. He signed the papers because it really was what he wanted. Ovi was right; she could never take Purvi’s place. "Ovi, can we still be friends?” “No Arjun. I want to move on in life and the more i stay connected to you, the more I’m going to hate myself for keeping Purvi away from you. In all this, Purvi died because of me. Had I not blasted her in front of everyone, she might have not left Mumbai or been on that bus and … I’m sorry Arjun, really.” “Ovi, thank you.” “For what, ruining your life?” “No, for finally understanding me. It might be too late, but I appreciate it." He smiled and hugged Ovi one last time. – Four Years Later ; Delhi Arjun shifted to Delhi a month later and started looking after his business alone in the city. He helped expand his business and worked hard to keep himself active and away from Purvi’s thoughts. Daily he’d go to work at 8 am and reached home around 11pm. He worked and worked. He kept everything going in his life according to a planned schedule. Soon enough, Arjun’s life became highly sophisticated and money- oriented. He was filthy rich. His hourly hard work had paid off and he was so engrossed in his business, he forgot what feelings were really like. "I asked for dark coffee, no sugar, and heated to a minute. Neither is this dark coffee and neither is it sugar less. It probably isn’t even heated to thirty seconds.” “Sir, I am sorry, I-” “You’re fired” “But sir-" Arjun gave one stern and cold look and the employee was scared beyond belief. He took off his hat and hurried out of the office. His career was gone. Once fired by Mr. A. Kirloskar, there was no where else you could get a job. He picked up his iPhone and dialed his secretary. "Is everything packed and ready?” “Yes Sir” “Good. I hate lateness. Bring the car in five minutes, and we’ll head off to the airport.” “But sir, we’re in traffic jam, and we can’t-” “Five minutes." He cut the line and packed his stuff and locked his office cabin doors. – "Can you get off that tree darling, you’re going to hurt yourself!!” “No I’m not, relax Mom. I’m super-girl” Purvi shook her head and walked inside the house, and saw a few little boys walk up to her fence. “Darling, i think you have some friends over” The little girl’s face turned into an “O” and she whipped out her slingshot. “They think they can get me before I can? What losers" Bang Bang Bang. She jumped off the tree and walked over to the little boys on the floor scratching their heads or rubbing their eyes, or rubbing their bottom. "Haal beemkani mosa’ adatuk?” (Can I help you) The little girl fired at the boys in Arabic and turned around to her home. “Who cares if they’re older than me? No one messes with me. It doesn’t matter if I’m a four year old - i can and will do anything. That’s just me.” “Pari, come inside! It’s going to rain!” “Sadly, my name says otherwise.” –

[benaamrishtawoh]

PMA- Chapter 1

Chapter 1:

He took a strong and long drag out of his cigarette. One last drag and he flicked out of his fingers as he stepped over it and walked away. He loosened his tie and unbuttoned the top two buttons of his gray shirt. Running his hands through his unkempt hair, he pushed across the crowd of people and left the building, slamming the door behind him. He was done. He had accepted it. “Pick up the phone, pick up the phone dammit. AK pick up the phone. I know you hear this just, please pick up the phone, come on” He gripped the steering wheel tight, closed his eyes, and grabbed the phone. “What?” He spoke rather coldly. “Phone maat katna, please. Listen first.” Silence. “You’ve been asked to take a trip to Pune, to Mehta Industries-” He chuckled. “Was I asked or did you fix this for me?” Silence. “Stop doing this for me Jay. Please. I don’t want help.”

“Fine. But it won’t hurt. Just please go.” Silence. “AK, please. Your flight’s at 10pm tonight, and you have been called at 4pm tomorrow.” AK slammed his door and walked into his room. “Anything else? What the - where are all my clothes?”

Still on the line, “They’re packed and ready to go. You have an hour, a car’s waiting for you downstairs.”

“What on earth- Jay, Jay, listen to me, I don’t want all- Jay I’m not going, Jay yaar, come on bhai- Jay!” “You’ll thank me later bro-” And Jay hung up. AK forced a weak smile on his face and in an hour he was on the plane to Pune. He was so sick of everything and really wished he could sit in his balcony, play his guitar and smoke his life away. He was such a loser now- he was convinced he was- there was no other explanation. But he still listened to his best friend Jay, he didn’t want to, but that was just their relation. Jay held AK up, he was the only one who took him in when everyone else spat on him. AK had that little bit of respect for Jay, if not a lot. “Sir, please” said a well dressed lady in her green and blue uniform sari. She pointed at the sign above. - NO SMOKING- He sighed and took one more drag and disposed of it. “Sir I hope you know our restrictions. Thank you." He nodded. He knew, but he couldn’t help it. "Oh come on, I need this to work!"

"What’s wrong aapi-jaan?”

“Aziz Bhaijaan, look i need to fix this presentation for Mister Mehta and get his laptop fixed within an hour. I’m not even getting payed for overtime. If I don’t do this you know-”

“I know I know - you won’t be able to send money back home hmm?"

Her head fell to the floor. That was the truth. Her parents were everything for her- they believed she was doing so well in Pune and that she’d make them proud. Oh how wrong they were. She was no first class business woman. Just a repair woman and fixer at a big business. But little did they know that.

She tried hard to keep her tears from falling. She was strong and felt her job was enough, even if it came across as a hassle.

"Come on na! Just help me a little! Please” She stopped herself from breaking apart and Aziz Bhaijaan helped her.

“Aah! Thank you Bhaijaan! Thank you thank you! I’ll go right now to Mister Mehta. My job is fixed, and i can send my money to my parents! Aai aur Baba kitne khush honge na? Eee, thank you!”

Aziz Bhaijaan chuckled, “Go go, jaldi!”

“Not bad at all Miss Deshmukh. Very impressive, I must say. Thank you.” Mister Mehta turned back around and went to pick up a business call. As he was talking, he noticed she was still standing there. He covered the speaker and questioned why she was still here. “Uh, woh, uhm, Sir, My paycheck .. umm, woh-” He rolled his eyes and wrote out a check with her salary and an extra five rupees, not that it would really prove to be of extra help. -TO MISS PURVI DESHMUKH ____ AND FIVE RUPEES- She grabbed the check, rolled her eyes, and muttered a soft “Thank you Sir”

AK sat on his chair in the meeting hall. Though he’d lost his status, he still had his sense of picking out the best of the best, and clearly he was sitting in a hall of dumb idiots. “Mister Kirloskar, do we have a problem?" AK was sitting quite unprofessionally- his shirt unbuttoned at the top, his glasses resting on his head, leaning back on his chair.. you know, casual and -i - dont - give - a - damn- attitude.

"Pfft, Problem and me? Please. I think you guys have the problem.”

“Pardon?” “No no, pardon me. I’m sitting among some very untalented people and please, don’t get me started about your proposal. That was very … i don’t know … stupid?”

“Mister Arjun Kirloskar! Mind your tongue!” Arjun waved a peace sign and headed for the door with his jacket when he heard a man near the door mutter some rather unwanted comments. “Wah, abhi bhi kaisi himmat hai- chaar saal se koi proposal nahi de paya, aur kissi aur ko stupid kehta hai? Saala bekaar kahin ka-" That did it. He lost his cool. He grabbed the man by his collar. Boy was he shit-scared. And why wouldn't he be? Even if AK wasn’t the AK anymore, he still had his charm and intimidation. The guy nodded a sorry and Arjun let him go. He continued walking through to the lobby of Mehta industries when he saw a girl dressed in (click here) fumblingly loudly to herself. He though he saw her before. "How stupid! They just lost a deal with such a good company! If they did this, or that, they wouldn't have gotten it.” She sat behind a computer and started clicking and typing some technical stuff AK quickly recognized as he “spied” from behind a pillar. Interesting. “Oh shit! It’s 5 pm! The bank will be closed! Oh man!" Arjun waited for the girl to leave, hoping she’d forget to turn her computer off, or at least put it to stand by. And just his luck- that’s exactly what happened. He looked through the presentation she seemed to have made for herself. That’s quite strange, why wasn’t this used or shown? Do the people even know such an amazing proposal is sitting on this computer? Probably not, he thought to himself. Arjun looked up to see where the girl had gone. She couldn’t have gone that far. She’s not a track star- but she was speeding. I can’t let her go.

*Ring Ring* Four messages from Jay *Ring Ring* Two missed calls from Jay "Yeah Yeah hello, Jay, Yeah i went, i’ll talk to you later yaar, abhi nahi, just wait”

“Uh hello? Hel-” Jay shook his head and rolled his eyes. There she is. She took some money out of her beg and waited for her transaction. He could sense the worry in her body and mind. He saw the unsatisfactory feeling- he could just feel it from where he stood. But why? She’s got such a good business technique- it doesn’t make sense. She was walking right passed him when he called out to her, “Miss … Miss! Hey!” He grabbed her wrist and pulled her back. “It’s Miss Deshmukh to y- holy … Ar-Arju-Arjun Kirloskar? AK? What the-” Her eyes suddenly turned into a little child’s. She couldn’t believe it. Arjun Kirloskar, the AK, the businessman, the ultimate businessman, her role model, stood in front of her, calling out to her. He raised an eyebrow and chuckled slightly. “Do you wanna come to Mumbai?”

She raised an eyebrow too. “Excuse me?” “Yeah, do you wanna come to Mumbai? I saw that .. slide show … I like it”

She turned beet red. Arjun Kirloskar went through my computer? Oh my god.

She chuckled and turned around to keep walking. He ran in front of her. “I’m serious. You’ll do so well. Here’s my number, and address.” He’d walked the whole way to her house, trying his best to convince her. “Acha tell me, Why me? Why do you care so much? I’m just a normal girl doing her job in a big business company. Why does it matter to the Arjun Kirloskar?” “Because you deserve it. I heard you speak to yourself before, what was it "dumb and stupid" hmm? Yeah, and that presentation. Please, you speak business.” She turned beet red again, was Arjun Kirloskar really praising her?

She shook her head and smiled and opened the large gates. “You have my number right?” He screamed. She nodded and smiled as she opened her house door. “Listen!” She turned back once more, her hair blowing ever so perfectly in the wind. She gave him a questioning look, “What now?” He nodded nothing and smiled. She trusts me. She set her bags aside and squealed to herself, holding the parchment he had written his number on tightly. I trust him. —

[benaamrishtawoh]

JTWYA- Chapter 2

So You’re Not a Khadoos Lady After All Hmm ?:

She hated Holi, well, now she did. And reason being was her only excuse- I have an unworthy life- “And uh, Purvi ? Please for today at least can you come out and play?” “Aaji, you know I don’t like Holi, please, let me be, I’m fine.” “Okay, you don’t have to play, but at least come down stairs in a white suit, please, just join us, you’ll feel better, trust me.” “Aaji, I-” “Whatever Purvi, I really don’t know how to tell you to be happy. Move on please, don’t you see me?! Life won’t wait for you." Sulochna shook her head and headed outside. Her grandmother’s words hurt. She knew her grandmother cared and she was only doing so to help her, to tell her to live. But it was hard- it’s not easy for her to live again. She went to her closet and picked out a white churidar, bordered by a silver lining around the neck line. She chose a yellow dupatta and placed it on her neck. Letting her hair out, she put on a small pair of silver earrings. She sat on her bed for a bit and calmed herself down. Mom died right before Holi a year ago, how can I celebrate without her? I have no color in my life, how am I supposed to play then? She shut her eyes and tried to dump everything in a trash can. A voice called for her, "Purvi, I know you can do it. You’re my daughter. Please, go have fun. For me"  She opened her eyes- Archana was always with Purvi, not physically, but mentally and emotionally of course. – "Arjun hurry up! I want to go to the Holi Festival!” “So go na? It’s across the road anyway” “I know, but come on, we’re the owners of this whole complex, it looks bad if we don’t go and join, and plus your dad isn’t here either, I don’t want to go play by myself!” “Mom, I’m sure you’ll make good friends with those aunties, they seem nice” Arjun looked out his window and made a quite sarcastic comment, rolling his eyes. “Arjun!!” “Okay, fine I’m coming, jeez” He put on a soft white material kurta and dhoti pants instead of jeans. If these get wet, God knows how long it will take to dry. He slicked his hair up, gelled, and took a good look in the mirror. Not bad Arjun, not bad at all. He thought back to a week ago, when he arrived in India, and to the girl he met. This whole past week he tried hard and prayed he’d meet her again, but of course his luck wasn’t so good. Maybe, just maybe I’ll see her today? Please, God, help me, at least today. Walking down to the event, Arjun realized what he actually prayed for and wondered why he did. I don’t even know the girl, what the heck am I thinking!? – “Bhai-sahab, here take this drink, you’ll feel lively!” Arjun took the glass and smelled it first. The stench made his stomach do somersaults. He smiled weakily and gave the glass back to the man, "Uh.. No, I’m fine" “Okay, happy Holi" the man shrugged and walked away. Arjun spotted his mom in a crowd of woman and decided to apply color to her first. He searched around for color and took them in his hands and ran over to his mother, almost like a little kid, and filled her face with color. "Happy Holi mom!"Aashna smiled. "Happy Holi to you too son, I wish the rest of your life is just as colorful as mine" she took some color and applied it to Arjun’s cheeks too. "Go on, play around, I’m sure there’s people here you’ll get along with, go” He walked across the field and saw a group of young guys, around his age probably, sneaking around some glasses. He walked a bit closer and smelled the same stench he took in earlier. "Yuck, what is this guys? Why does it smell so bad?“ A toned tall figure spoke up, wiping his hair of all the excess color powder. He smiled playfully."This right here my friend is b-h-a-a-n-g , bhaang. Drink up drink up” Arjun irked away but gave in and not only did he drink one glass, he drank four large glasses of bhaang.Oh boy was he out of it. 

Sar jhoome chakkar khaye, hahah ooohhh sar jhooome chakkarrr kha- The toned figure and a few of his friends stared at Arjun. "I’m guessing he’s never had bhaang vefore, just look at him! Seems like someone took him out of the circus!“Arjun walked back to the group of guys and told them to come with him. "Guys, my name is Arjun, London wala. What’s your names?” The guy smiled weakly at him, wow that was a quick reaction, "Ah… Hello, I’m Shaan, um, wait, uh control kar, oh my…“"Haha, Happy Holi !!!” Shaan couldn’t hold up Arjun, he was uncontrollable. I think i gave him too much … – Purvi sat down on the stairs and watched everyone play. She didn’t have it in her to play with everyone else so she watched from the distance. A girl, tall and petite figured, dressed in a cropped white top with a sheer top over it and churidar pants, walked up to Purvi. “Happy Holi Purvi,” “Hey Vrush, Happy-" but before Purvi could say anything else back her eyes shut closed and she shivered. Vrushika gaped at occuring incident. –Arjun looked around the field and caught his eye on a girl sitting on the staircase, colorless, and alone. A smirk formed on his face. Grabbing a whole bucket a water, he mixed it in with a whole bunch of color powders and creeped behind the girl on the stairs. Vrushika’s eyes widened and she slapped Shaan on the back of his head. "You idiot, you couldn’t stop this guy? You know how much Purvi hates getting colored!” “Jaan I tried but-” “Okay, let’s leave from here, Purvi might just turn into Jhansi Ki Rani …” Arjun laughed from the back and grabbed a fistful of red color in his hand. Purvi got up from the stairs in a jolt, all red eyed, and turned around to start her rough tough talk, but again, before she could speak, an oh so drunk Arjun smeared her cheek delicately with color. Purvi looked at him sternly, a little shocked to see the same airport rascal a week later, and didn’t know what to say to him. She was super annoyed but … she liked the sight in front of her. Arjun’s smile was so wide it indeed was a treat. He raised his hands and started dancing around and went away, "Bura na mano holi hai !!“ She watched him leave and slightly smiled, again questioning who he was.– Oh crap!!He toppled over the table around the corner and landed on his right arm. Being so drunk, he hadn’t exactly felt the pain, but the blood oozing from his forearm was ridiculous. No one noticed but Purvi, and of course she had a bit of a doctor’s instincts in her. She held his hand and took one over her shoulder and helped him into the elevator. She didn’t know where to she’d find the first aid kit in the field, and her room was just the third floor. She made him sit on the sofa, Arjun still blabbering nonsense, more so things he never spoke about. He went off about his father, how he missed London sometimes, and also apologized to Purvi- all under the effect of some great four glasses of bhaang. "You know, i never came to India before, it’s all so new to me.”“My dad is one nutcase, i mean, look at me, and look at him”“I’m sorry baba, pleaseee, don’t be angry, what is it, hmm, bura na mano holi hai!” Purvi tried hard to just concentrate on bandaging Arjun’s bleeding forearm, but he really was a mess, she couldn’t help laughing. “Oh my you laugh! So you aren’t a khadoos lady hmm?” he smiled a goofy smile and dozed off. She sat on the sofa across him and took in his presence. I have a stranger in my home yet i feel like I’ve known him for ages. She took out her phone and sent a text message to Vrush, telling her to tell her grand-mom about some guy in her home. She descried what he was wearing and told her to find his family so they could take him home. – “Yo Shaan, do you know the name of that guy that came to Purvi a little while ago with the bucket!?” “Um? i don’t think so…” “Come on, i know you gave him all that bhaang. He’s injured and upstairs in Purvi’s house. He needs to go home, try to remember” “Oh, that English Babu? His name’s uh, hmm… What was it … Oh yeah, Arjunnn" he imitated Arjun’s exact dialogues and laughed. "Crazy dude” “Okay come on, we’ll tell Sulo Aaji, maybe she can do something” “Uh, Sulo Aaji, there’s a problem.  There’s this injured English Babu in your house.” Again Vrushika hit Shaan in the head and took over, "Aaji, um, is their a family, or member here from England? The man’s name is Arjun. He injured himself, and Purvi went to get the first aid kit.“ "I think so dear hold on, Aashna beti, is your son Arjun?” Aashna looked puzzled, oh god this son of mine. "Uh yes Auntyji, I’m kind of waiting for him here" “Okay come with me please.” Vrush and Shaan shrugged and followed too. After Sulochna, Vrushika was Purvi’s second family- a sister she never had, and a best friend. {Vrushika and Shaan = (x) (x)} – Purvi walked up and down the hall waiting for someone to come and take the character on her sofa away. Now she was getting annoyed and she was turning back into khadoos lady. “Purvi, did- woah … What happened, who did-" Sulochna looked at Arjun dozed off on the sofa, Aashna came from behind and looked super guilty. "I am so sorry Auntyji, i really am!” “Um, Aunty, it’s okay, I brought him here- he injured himself…” Aashna smiled at Purvi, "Thank you dear and sorry again.“ Shaan helped Aashna take sleepyhead Arjun out of Purvi residence to Kirloskar place. Vrushika said goodbye and left- it was nearly night time and she was probably being waited for at home. Purvi walked to her room, not saying anything to Sulochna. She knew she would question why she was drenched and in color too. She took a good warm shower and changed into her pjs again and layed on her bed. Oh man, what was his name? Through all of this I forgot to ask him again! I’ll just ask Vrush or Shaan tomorrow, they probably know. She touched her cheek slightly, remembering what happened earlier and shivered again. That was so weird, why? … "Arjun, i need you to go around the complexes and collect the house billing payments. I’ve been told some aren’t paying on time. We need to fix that. And if they see the real owners, they’ll come to the point" Aashna passed the orange juice to Arjun as he sat with his hand on his head. "Okay, i’ll go. Um, Mom, was yesterday … bad ? I can’t remember anything? What happened?” Arjun had the worst headache ever and he couldn’t remember a single thing that happened the day before.Knowing my luck, i probably did something stupid yesterday. His mother just shook her head and said, “Nothing dear, you just had some bhaang, that’s all. Now get going. You’ll get some fresh air and you’ll feel better.”He walked into the large complex of flats and went building by building, collecting the payments. He took the elevator to 23E and rung the doorbell. He held his head in his hands again as his headache reached new heights.Ugh, why is Mom making me do this now, couldn’t this wait?! He rung the door bell of 23E again, and Purvi opened the door quite angrily, all ready to blast for morning disruption- clearly, she hated being interrupted during her breakfast. If nothing, food was the only other thing she looked forward to besides dance. But of course, the sight of a sober, weak Arjun in front of her doorstep wasn’t quite who she was expecting. He tried to keep his eyes open and winced at his pain. What the? This is that coffee girl...–

After a long week, Purvi got a good break from university and her job. She needed it. She rubbed her temples as she sat on the kitchen table and sorted out the billing payments and costs. So much money, so little time. “Purvi, dear can you just bring the color trays downstairs? I have to fill them up with the powder.” “Yes Aaji, I’m coming” Purvi was still in her pajamas.

[benaamrishtawoh]

JTWYA- Chapter 1

Genuinely Asking:

Life was perfect for Purvi.

When she was twelve she’d moved in with her whole family in London. Up to twelve years of age, Purvi had been living with only her grandmother and mother. She always longed for a father’s love and hoped to be in a big family, and God had listened to her, but … Not exactly. A year back, Purvi came back to  India. Everyone and everything was in London, but at the same time it wasn’t. The only one who had loved and cared for Purvi was her mother, and if she wasn’t on this earth, there was no reason for Purvi to be with a whole bunch of ignorant and selfish people. Manav, Ovi, Teju, Sachin, Savita, even Sundari never acknowledged Purvi. She was just the other kid in the house. Way to make me feel like an actual Orphan, she thought. Growing up was kind of hard. She only had a few friends, more like just two. Maybe it was because she was quiet, or maybe because she was the odd one out of the Deshmukh’s- but Purvi never really took it to heart until after her mother’s sudden death. The minute her mother’s burial was done, it was as if Purvi was living among two-faced people, not that they weren’t before Purvi’s mother’s death. She was not taking it- Not telling any of them where she was going, Purvi took a long flight back to India, back to Sulochna, the only other reason she was alive. Purvi lived for only Sulochna now, not even for God. Her life was worthless- an orphan by birth, no love, no recognition, nothing. Purvi’s mother meant the whole world to her, and why wouldn’t she? Only she had decided to take an orphan home and give her a name, a life, an identity. She was forever grateful for whatever she had done for her. And since she was gone, Purvi’s outer core became so hard even a meteor couldn’t break it. A singing, easy going Purvi Deshmukh had turned into the serious, never laughing, just Purvi. –She brushed her hair and put on a light blue over-sized t-shirt and a pair of leggings. The night dance lessons were a pain, but she loved it. With her western upbringing, Purvi was seen less in daily salwars and saris like her mom, but she never forgot the values and teachings her mom had instilled in her. Now morning, Purvi walked into the kitchen and made herself a cup of coffee. When coming back to India a year back, Purvi forced her grandmother to move with her to a modern flat. One reason was that chawl was a daily reminder of her childhood and mother, and two, she needed an AC (London was pretty cold). She sipped her coffee as she made herself a sandwich and heard the doorbell. Her grandmother went to open the door and all Purvi heard was screaming. Not again. P:“Excuse me?! What do you want?” S:“No no Purvi, he’s just asking about the-” P:“Haven’t I told you I’ll pay you?! It’s not even the end of the month. You may leave now.” Purvi muttered under her breath, “Wonder what urges them to start every morning” “But miss, the building owners will be here soon and i have to give them their fees-” P:“Are they here now?” “Uh no.. ” P:“Okay, so when theyre here, we’ll take care of it” “But miss-” P:“You may leave now” “But-” Purvi closed the door on the man’s face and sat down on the couch, rubbing her temples. Sulochna placed her hands on her shoulder and Purvi irked away. She hated sympathy. P:“Aaji, I’m fine. Did you eat yet?!” S:“Purvi, stop stressing yourself-” P:“Aaji, Im not. Please eat your breakfast, I have to get to college.” S: “Okay dear, come home safe and soon.” P: “Safe sure, soon… You know that won’t happen. Not with work and dance aaji” She changed her over-sized t-shirt to a nice sleeved top and carried her bag of books and dance clothing. It was the same routine, just different day. She wished for some change, but she knew if she asked God for change, she’d be cursed. She shared a negative mutuality with God, once upon a time, she was one of God’s biggest devotees, but not anymore. God hates me, she says. – It was a quiet London Sunday morning- the white flurries dropped from the clouds in hordes, making it cold as ever  and yet the warmth of Kirloskar residence was all one needed. A: “Mom, hurry up will you? Our flight’s in just two hours- we can’t miss another one!” As:“I know I know! I was talking to your dad and telling him where everything is. God knows how he’ll survive by himself here…" Aashna Kirloskar, the mother of Arjun and DK’s beloved wife, shook her head at her husband. DK wrapped his arms around her shoulders and kissed her forehead. "I’ll be fine love, don’t worry about me. Now come on, get going, you and Arjun have a flight to catch” He made a face at his Dad’s words and came downstairs with his belongings. Finally, I can stay away from this man. All he cares about is his money and wife. Im nothing for him. And now he’s sending us to India to take care of his business, how convenient. DK: “Arjun, my boy, i’ll miss you.” Arjun made a snide remark and went to load the luggage into the car.“Harry, we’re ready. Come on.” The driver started the car and they were off to the airport. Arjun sat in the back with his mom. He was angry, but he wasn’t. Aashna held his hands, squeezing them in assurance almost. He smiled. His mother was all he needed, and the only woman he’ll ever love. – Purvi loved the airport. It was weird, but she loved it. People leaving, new faces coming in- it was all so amusing to her. She loved the different people and working at her little coffee shop right outside the airport was almost equivalent to her traveling the whole world. It was eight- thirty and Purvi’s working hours were over. She took off her apron and grabbed her bag to leave. A: “Wait a minute! Please! Ek second! Wait wait!!” Purvi turned around and looked at the man sheepishly. Definitely not from here … “um, yes?!” “Can you get me a cup of coffee?!” Must say, he is a pretty well kept looking fella, but that wasn’t enough for Purvi to go back and get him a cup of coffee. P:“Sorry mister… I’m not working right now- ” “A: No please, You just got out, just one cup!” P: “Uh, no. Sorry. I have places to be.” A: “Me too, but i need just one cup. I’ll pay extra” P: “This isn’t about money. I’m just not working now. And we’re closed.” A: “So go open it!" How rude. "There’s another coffee shop across the street and around the corner. Goodbye.” Purvi hailed a taxi but none of them stopped. What the hell? I never miss a taxi. The man came running back, "See, even the no-stopping taxis are you telling you to get me a cup of coffee.“ She eyed the man and breathed heavily. "You are seriously annoying” A: “And you’re very pretty, now can you get me a cup of coffee?” A sudden silence fell. Her beat a little faster. Compliments came as a surprise to her, especially from such a handsome … stranger… it made her wonder. Eyes still wide, she shook her head. Was he seriously complimenting me, or was that just a trick?! I’ll go with option two. “ Umm, no?!” He smiled at her leaving. “Not bad,” he mumbled to himself. As: “There you are Arjun! I was looking for you, and what, why are you smiling like that? Don’t tell me you were teasing a girl….” A: “Teasing and me? pfft, No mom, i was just genuinely asking for some coffee” As: “Uh what?!” A: “Nothing mom, come on, let’s go” She was pretty different. London waaliyon ki tarha toh bilkul nahi. (definitely not like the Londoners) –“Purvi, are you okay? You seem kind of mad” “What’s new about that?” The two girls, who danced with Purvi, wondered what was up. Purvi slammed her bag down and roughly changed into her knee length leggings and tank top. She muttered some words to herself and ignored the two girls. “Alright Purvi, we’re leaving. You were a little late today too. Take care okay?” She didnt even smile back and the girls shrugged and left. Gadhe. Batameez. Janwar ki aulad- oh, wait, sorry, can’t insult the mother oops- but if the son is so annoying, then how must the mother be? The same right? Ugh, whatever. I don’t care. She turned on the playlist and dance her heart out. It was only warm up the first two days, ad the three days after called for routine practice. She heaved in and out. And suddenly broke down. It was just her and the music, but her insides hurt. This wasn’t unusual though- it’d happen most of the time. She thought she was dried of tears- she’d dance and dance and dance and break. And it was all because she thought she was a nobody. She wanted change, she really did, but she was scared. I need to be happy with what I have, that’s it. "You’re very pretty" his raspy voice played like a tape recorder in her mind. She wiped her tears,Wow! i didn’t even ask his name!? Oh wait, i don’t care.– He stood from his new balcony and breathed in the drizzling atmosphere around him. I was hoping I’d get to run away from London’s rain, seems like it’s following me here too. He was lost in thoughts. He never really ever cared about anything- always impulsive and just out there, but for once he was thinking. He was trying so hard to understand what was going on inside him because whatever it was, it was definitely knew and unknown. As: “Arjun?! Where are you! Oh look, there you are! I sent Ramu Kaka a little while ago and he was saying you were being weird and didn’t say any-" Aashna blabbered and then shook Arjun. A: "WHAT?!" He yelled, a little annoyed with the shake. As: "I said, Ramu Kaka came earlier to give you some coffee, but he said you didn’t even acknowledge his presence” A: “Huh, what ?! When did that happen?” “Ah, whatever. Here’s your coffee, you wanted some earlier right?” A"Uhm, yeah, thanks" As: “So, who’s this girl that you’re so head over heels hmm ?" Aashna smiled, she knew her son well. A: "Girl? Uh, no one mom, I just got to India! And you know I didn’t like those Londoners-” As:“I know, but I did see the princess you were talking to- genuinely asking for coffee right?" Arjun looked away and bit his tongue. As: "So tell me, what’s her name” Aashna  sipped her chai- she was so intrigued. Arjun’s eyes widened and he looked at his mom. She stopped drinking her tea. As: “What?!” A: “I FORGOT TO ASK HER NAME!" – feedback, comments, likes are highly appreciated :)

Life was perfect for Purvi.

[benaamrishtawoh]

BICWTEWY- Last Part

Purvi’s eyes widened.

Why didn’t he hug me back? The lights were completely turned off on the terrace by now, for reasons such as using the energy for the mandap in the hall. His face became invisible almost and Purvi could only make out a broad body. She stuttered even more, confused at his reaction. The music was even louder now; indicating that it was time Purvi reached the mandap. “Arjun?”

_ “Purvi you’re getting wet.”

“But Arjun, why-”

_“Go downstairs you’re being waited for”

“But-”

_ “Purvi, I said go.” Purvi, shocked at his actions, turned around and walked to her room. Maybe it is time we completely parted ways.

She heard banging on her door and opened it, already knowing what the reactions would be.

_ “What the heck Purvi, we’ve been kno- what on earth?”

_ “Purvi are you insane! You’re wedding dress is all wet ! And you’re make up and hair! Are you in your right state of mind Purvi! YOURE GETTING MARRIED!" yelled Archana, Teju and Sulo, and Punni stood behind them, watching.She knew how she was feeling- somehow she was responsible and she knew exactly what was going through her mind, and she left from the scene, most likeyl because of guilt.

_ "Purvi, seriously, you do know you can’t go out like this right?” Teju said, worrying now. _ “Wait a minute, Archana, you know Purvi has an extra shaadi ka jora. Remember, Aashna had kept a special outfit, when she was alive, and wished to see her daughter in law in it?” Purvi’s eyes shot up at the thought.How can i wear a gift that was given to me from an ex fiance on my wedding day? What will Rohan’s parents think? What will Rohan think? “Aai, how can i- that’s -” _ “Oh well. You didn’t think before getting the dress wet. Now you have no other option. Ill talk to Rohan’s mom.” Purvi’s hair and make up wasn’t so bad because of the rain, a little touch up and drying would do the trick. The wedding outfit, however, seemed to have taken one long cold shower. “Teju, please, ?” Purvi turned her head towards the door and Sulo and Teju left Purvi by herself. As much as they wanted to help her, they knew it was better to leave her alone. She put on the top and bottom of the maroon and red lehenga (x), and carefully laid out the dupatta on the bed. While drying her ornaments and touching up, she heard some weird noise and footsteps coming from the halls. Ithought everyone was downstairs? Who’d be up here? She peaked out from her two doors to see what was going on in the hallway, and to her surprise, it was none other than Rohan. He looked up from wiping his shoulders and smiled at Purvi. “You too?”

Rohan laughed and nodded.

- “What to do Purvi, can you believe it? It just had to rain the day we we’re getting married”

Purvi gave a weak smile. Rohan turned to leave when he turned back. “By the way Love the outfit Purvi. Must say, it’s even better than what i gave you” he smiled again and left.

Purvi smiled at Rohan. I can’t hurt him. I have to be strong. Purvi stepped back in to her room and sat next to the dupatta that laid on her bed. She took it and placed it slowly on her head. Funny, im getting married to Rohan, yet my mehndi speaks of Arjun’s name and my bridal dress isn’t even from Rohan’s family. What a play!

India’s heat must be super strong. Arjun was dry in just minutes- he let out a few coughs as he stood next to DK sir, waiting for the wedding rituals to begin. Arjun watched the priest prepare the fire and stuff needed for the ceremony. She taught me the true meaning behind these saat pheres. How I wished we completed them that day. He remembered his words to her from that afternoon- “Even death stands no chance to separate us” He chuckled at the thought. Purvi sent a text to Teju, telling her she was ready. Downstairs, Teju signaled all the girls to bring Purvi down. She stepped under the canopy and sat  next to Rohan. Her emotions were all over the place. Am I really going to do this? Will I be able to? Did he feel like this when he got married? Oh my god. Archana and Manav performed the “kanyadaan” of Purvi and the two stood uo to begin their nuptial rounds. Teju tied the knot of Purvi’s and Rohan’s shawls, just when the doors creaked open. _ “STOP THIS” a feminine, screechy, and quite obnoxious, voice screamed. Her voice echoed in the quiet hall. Teju dropped her hands from the shawls, leaving them untied. _“You have got to be kidding me” Teju muttered under her breath, and jumped to walk to the almost unwanted figure. She yanked her arm and grilled her. She looked into her eyes and saw a greyscaled run through of togetherness and then she looked away, ashamed. _“Please leave from here” Tej said, through gritted teeth. _“I can’t Teju, and I won’t till this wedding doesn’t happen” _“Aren’t you satisfied enough!?” Get away from here, we don’t need more drama. We’ve been living peacefully for eight months, thank you very much.“ Another voice came from behind. _"No Teju, she’s right. This marriage is wrong.” She pushed past Teju and walked up to the mandap. Teju pulled at the second figure that had walked in and yelled at her.

_ “What do you think you’re doing! You’re so lucky we still respect you in this family”

_“Teju let go of me” Punni pulled away from Teju’s grip and walked towards the other figure that made her way to the mandap. Punni looked at Purvi, who was in utter shock. She just gaped. She wanted to turn her head to see his reaction on all this but dared not to. Her to be in laws and future husband were right there. oh my god, Rohan!

Archana and Manav stood up, “I thought we banned you from ever stepping near us?"

-"But I never banned myself from doing good”

- “OH shut up Ovi! We all know what kind of good you’ve done to us. Please, just leave. Before a major incident happens, leave. Let her get married. You’ve ruined it before. You want a second chance too?” Teju yelled from behind.

A tear strolled down Purvi’s face. She wasn’t ready to face humiliation on her wedding day. What must her in laws be thinking of her now? Rohan might be fine, but her in laws won’t take this lightly. She shut her eyes and hoped she was dreaming.

Arjun, who, ever since he’s gotten to India, stood off to the corner and felt his level of awkwardness rise another two bars. He looked at DK, and he gave the usual don’t worry look. Maybe I should leave from here.

_“Stop yelling at Ovi, Teju! Come on! We all-”

_ “Jeeju? Are you mad? This girl has ruined us for her selfish reasons. She’s here again to ruin us. She wasn’t happy the first time, she decided to play games. Now Purvi’s stepping towards happiness and she’s here again to play!-” _“Don’t call me Jeeju. I’m not your Jeeju - and I’m not your sister’s husband- I can never be” Purvi’s head shot up and Arjun stared down Rohan. Is he breaking her heart or what? What the hell is going on? I thought he could keep her happy?

Rohan looked at Purvi. Questions were written all over her face. He shook his head. He wanted to tell her how much he actually felt for her, how precious she was to him, and how her happiness meant the most to him. And he knew Purvi would never be fully satisfied with him- he knew Purvi could never give place to him in her heart. His heart only spoke of Arjun- she breathed as long as Arjun was alive, and he was no one to interfere, and he knew that. _“Rohan? What’s going on?” Rohan walked over to Punni and Ovi. “These girls are right. This marriage is wrong” Rohan pulled off his turban. _ “Purvi is my friend and I can only wish for her best and hope she gets the best. And I’m not the best for her. I can never be. And the only person that defines Purvi’s happiness is her love, and I am not, and never will be her love” Purvi’s heart broke. She was so lucky to have such a friend- but she was being unfair to him. She has to forget her past for her present and future. “Rohan, I- what are you doing? I want to marry you-” _ “But I don’t. I’m not making a mistake. Separating two lovers will be my biggest sin. God won’t ever forgive me” - “And God will never forgive me for actually coming in between two lovers. Maybe he might if I amend” “Amend what Ovi! Please sit down, and Rohan can you please come here!” Purvi was losing it. She started hyperventilating and broke down crying. “Please, just let me get married. What will everyone think. I have to move on- I-I don’t- i can’t- please-” _ “You’ll get married Purvi. You WILL-” said Ovi, putting her arms around Purvi, hesitantly. _“But to your love-” Rohan’s smile pierced Purvi’s heart

_“Arjun” finished Punni. Ovi let go of Purvi and scanned the room quickly for Arjun- he was no where to be found. He was just here? I was sure I saw him

_ “ONE MINUTE ONE MINUTE! WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON HERE?” Archana and Manav screamed. They were mere spectators, but at this point were being talked about by the guests and priest. _ “What mess is this? I am sorry, i am not staying here any longer” Rohan’s mom chipped in and grabbed her husband’s hand. “Rohan, come on!”

_ “Sorry Mom, I have some duties as a best friend and as an angel in disguise.” His mom stared at him and looked away in disgust.

Soon enough, all the guests left and it was just family. _ “Do you see what you did Ovi ! You’ve ruined Purvi’s happiness again! You can’t seem to get over your insecure self can you?” yelled Teju. _ “Everyone, please stop it! We aren’t doing anything wrong. I heard Purvi upstairs. She isn’t happy with this. She’s forcing herself so she can get over her past. And the fact is she hasn’t and probably never will! Rohan tried to make everyone understand and control the family. They were all worked up due to the mess that happened but they hadn’t realized what Purvi was going through. It wasn’t that easy to forget a first love. She sat on the sofa, again breathing heavily. She hadn’t had anything to eat the whole day and Rohan’s words came as a shock to her, and just before she could say anything, Ovi came back suddenly- no one had realized she had left, due to the other crowds leaving.

_” Where is Arjun?“ Purvi looked up, a little worried.

_"What are you saying Ovi? Arjun was right next to Dk sir -”

_ “Sorry son, he went out before the ceremonies could even begin- just a while ago.” _“ He couldn’t have gone far, let me get him! Im not losing this chance to fix my best friend’s life for good" Purvi grabbed onto Rohan’s hands and again asked for an explanation. He kept her hand to the side, and held her cheek, assuring her he knew what he was doing and everything would be okay. Ovi sat down next to Purvi and she inched away a little bit, as much as she sacrificed everything for her wishes, she, deep down loathed her at times. And at the moment she didn’t know how she felt.

_ "Purvi … I am sorry. I am really sorry. You know, after I divorced Arjun, every night I’d go to sleep thinking how you were doing? I’d become even more selfish when i went to Canada, and that selfishness tore my so called marriage. And after Arjun and I went separate ways, i fell in love for the first time ever” she chuckled. “I realized I never did love Arjun. I don’t know what is was. I was stupid- i guess. But when i fell in love, and lost it, it hit me how you must have felt, how Arjun must have felt. Gosh, i felt like a devil almost. From that day I promised myself I’d reunite you two myself. I wanted to come back to India, but no one wanted me here. I thought I’d call Punni, and she helped me get here and keep me updated on how things were looking like here. The day she told me you were getting married, I had to get the news to Arjun- thankfully he left his London number to me before we separated. I called him and told him, hoping he’d come to India too, and he did. Soon the wedding preparation started and Punni told me she over heard your and Rohan’s conversation at the park- and then I decided to call Rohan and speak to him … Punni kept tabs on the situation during the wedding and informed Rohan I was here and … all this happened. It was the right thing at the wrong time maybe, but it was the right thing. Im just- I …. I don’t know Purvi - I’m just really sorry, I know it’s not enough- but … ”

Rohan walked out the hall and looked for Arjun in the parking lot. He had a good feeling Arjun hadn’t left. If he was to be an angel disguise, God wouldn’t make him fail- he knew it.

It was still raining- didnt stop since it started. There is absolutely no way Arjun left from here. This weather is insane. He looked at the few parked cars and found a pitch black, never seen before, Mercedes. This is definitely Arjun’s car. Thank you God.

Rohan walked towards the car and looked through the windows and found Arjun leaning against his seat, eyes closed. He was a total mess- sherwani unbuttoned and rolled up, hair all ruffled. Rohan knocked on the window and hoped Arjun would open the doors, and he did with a bang. “YOU FILTHY BASTARD. WHAT DO YOU WANT?” Rohan was taken aback. That was unexpected … “Purvi’s bestfriend huh? My foot. You’re so cheap!” _“Arjun, what are you talking about?”

“Don’t be all innocent now. I know it- you and Ovi planned to ruin the girl. You thought it would be funny to ruin her reputation the day of her wedding. That Ovi is one hell of a bit-” _ “ Arjun it’s not what you think! Ovi and I did plan- but it’s not to ru-” BOOM. Rohan held his jaw ever so tightly and Arjun’s clenched fists oozed of Rohan’s blood. But that didn’t stop Rohan, he had to get his words out. _“We did it to help Purvi. Trust me Arjun-” “TRUST YOU? DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID TO PURVI TONIGHT?” Arjun went for another punch. _“I know what Purvi wants Arjun. And i know what i had to do-” “Purvi wanted to get married and settled down. She saw good in you okay, and you ruined it for her. You ruined her happiness." _"I ruined her happiness? I ruined it? I RUINED IT? I am sorry i actually see what Purvi wants. Sorry i care so much for her happiness and want her to never be upset. Do you even see what’s written in Purvi’s eyes-” Arjun grabbed Rohan’s collar and grilled the daylights out of him and Rohan pulled him off. “PURVI STILL LOVES YOU ARJUN! SHE STILL DOES GOD DAMMIT !"

"You’re funny Rohan. She’s moved on. She’s given me back her engagement ring and told me she has to go. And she left me out on the terrace.” _“I know, I saw and heard, and also heard what Purvi thought she was saying to you. I had gone to the terrace to sneak a conversation to Purvi, to tell her once more to think this marriage over. Then i heard you two and when you left, I went to tell Purvi to break this marriage, but it seemed when she turned around, she thought she was talking to you and said she loves you … still…” Arjun’s heart stopped. He felt so bad for behaving the way he did with Rohan. He really is good, too good. Thank you God. “Rohan.. I am so sorry- I, I don’t know, I’m just so … I’m sorry!” _“You can do your sorrys and get me a doctor later, now come with me and get your lady love.” Rohan grabbed Arjun’s arm and started to make a move. Arjun smiled and hugged Rohan. “Thank you"

Purvi looked up at Ovi. She had no tears left from all the hyperventilating earlier, but she was touched. She truly was. But she thought back to Arjun, and suddenly, the tears started again. "But Ovi … you did all this … but Arjun has gone. I know it. He is never coming back again. He only came back to see if I was getting married to a person who’d keep me happy- and he saw Rohan is a nice guy and he’s taking that fact and leaving- i know it. Why do you think he left even before the rituals started? I know him Ovi, I do- he’s gone … " _ "He’s right here Purvi” Rohan moved away and from behind came Arjun. Everyone was shocked at their state- and Rohan replied “Don’t worry, all’s fair in love and war haha” Purvi wanted to walk up to Arjun but she sat looking down and took in his presence. Before Arjun could take a seat, Ovi got up and dragged Arjun and Purvi to the priest.

_ “I am sure the "shaadi ka mauhrat” is not over yet, right?“ _"Yes my dear" _"Aai, Baba, DK sir? Any words?” The three nodded, Archana tearing. Arjun and Purvi didn’t look at each other. The whole time the rituals happened, not a word was said and the two made zero contact to each other. They went to take blessings and when they were to walk up to their room, Teju stopped them. “No entering just yet” But Arjun didn’t listen. He let go of Purvi’s hand and went up stairs. Teju told everyone to stay calm and walked behind Arjun. _ “Jeeju, no entry please!” “I’ll be in the balcony- I need to be alone, just for a bit, please” _“Okay, as you wish, but no peeking into the room!” Arjun gave a weak smile. Soon, Teju said it was fine to come upstairs, and Archana, Rohan, Ovi and Punni walked Purvi up to her room. Purvi held onto Archana’s arm, in nervousness and looked to Rohan. He nodded a smile and Ovi told her to go in- “Go, Arjun is all yours.” Teju opened the door, pushed Purvi in and closed the doors. The room was pitch black. Teju managed to decorate the room pretty quickly yet nicely, placing a few crimson candles around the room and rose petals on the bed. With the little light that was in the room, Purvi searched for Arjun. She wanted to call his name out, but decided not to. She saw the balcony of her rloom was open around the corner, and figured he’d be there only. She crept up near the balcony doors and watched Arjun. He was looking up to the sky, almost shaking. Purvi hesitated to put a hand on his shoulders but she did, “Arjun?” She face Arjun and saw his eyes had turned bloodshot red and her heart almost jumped out of her chest. Arjun was crying. She placed a hand on his cheeks and asked worriedly, “ Arjun, why are you crying? What’s wrong! Arjun, please, tell me” He wiped his tears and took hold of Purvi’s hands and kissed them oh so delicately numerous times. “These aren’t sad tears Purvi, these are tears of joy. I am so happy Purvi. So happy! For nine months I’ve been the walking dead- just a body that’s alive, but a soul that has no life. I had lost meaning to life. I had become even more khadoos … as you would say. But I can’t believe it. I finally have you Purvi. Finally" Purvi teared at his words and bit her lips tio stop herself from crying like a maniac. "Arjun, I am sorry -” “No please, no sorrys. Whatever happened happened. We have our whole life now Purvi.” Purvi took Arjun’s hands and noticed the blood stains- “Uh, what was that all about … " He chuckled, "Oh, nothing at all" Purvi took Arjun into the room and wiped his hands. Before throwing the cloth away, Arjun stopped Purvi from moving, held her hands, and took out two tiny circular objects from his pockets. He caressed her delicate hands and placed the ring on her fingers, "Promise you’ll never take it off”

“I promise” she said, placing the second ring on Arjun’s finger.

Soon enough, being the sometimes shy gal she was, Purvi felt herself go red and she moved to the dresser and sat down, taking off her dupatta and jewelry so she could go to sleep. For once, she was happy to go to sleep- she would go to sleep seeing his face every night, and wake up to his face every morning. That’s all she needed. Purvi took off the excessive jewelry and make up while she felt Arjun's strong gaze on her from where he sat on the bed. He sat, crossed arms on the bed looking at his beloved. Purvi turned and questioned him. He shook his head and smiled. He reached out his hand, telling Purvi to take it, and pulled her to him, and then picked her up bridal style to their bed. Placing her delicately on the bed and moving to the side next to her, Purvi snuggled into Arjun’s chest and he placed an arm around her waist. “In all these nine months, I had no reason to live, because I cant walk this earth without you, but i did because i knew you were still alive, you were still breathing, and a long as you live, I live too.” “And as long as Arjun lives, Purvi lives too. I love you Arjun” “I love you too Purvi” She snuggled in closer and fell asleep, and he kissed her forehead, moving strands of hair slightly from her face and fell asleep too.

[benaamrishtawoh]

BICWTEWY- Part 4

“I need to talk to you”

Purvi kept her ornaments on the table and sat on the bed. She couldn’t take anymore nonsense. She was lenient before, but not now. “You didn’t go home?” The figure shook its head and stepped inside. “Go ahead, speak” _ “Purvi, this wedding is wrong-” “Listen, I don’t want to hear what you have to say about this. You’ve done all that you needed to ruin my life and two others. Why do you need a fourth chance to ruin my life? Thank you for coming, but I’m going to have to request you to leave” _ “Please Purvi, don’t get me wrong! I am your sinner- I’m so horrible. I don’t know if you’ll ever forgive me Purvi, infact i dont deserve to be forgiven, absolutely not, and I’m totally fine if you don’t. Don’t act like you’re okay with me. If I was in your place, i’d hate me. How can you be so nice?” she actually meant what she said,you could feel the honesty in her words. “Listen, tai, I won’t lie to you and say I’m perfectly alright with you, because I’m not. But I can’t say much, we’ve grown up together and you are my sister” _ “But that’s why! I’ve been so horrible with you Purvi. I’m the older sister, yet i took advantage of your goodness and played you. I played Ovi tai, i played with all your lives. I failed to see what was right. Purvi, I’m a nobody now. Aai, Baba, Mausi, Aaji, everyone hates me. They don’t show it, but i know it. I feel unwelcomed, I’ve lost my family Purvi, and i regret doing what I did. Im sorry Purvi” tears fell from her eyes and she fell to her knees. Purvi, being the kind hearted, zero grudge holding gal she was, bent down and held Punni up. “Tai? I don’t know what to say? I mean, i accept your apology, but your sorry doesnt do anything now. It can’tchange where we all are standing this very second. It-” Punni wiped her tears frantically. “Stop this wedding. Stop it. Break it off.” Shocked, Purvi got up from the floor and turned away. “Are you out of your mind Punni!? Im getting married tomorrow night and you want me to break it?! What’s the good in that! How many more of my marriages will i break??!!” _ “This is wrong Purvi. I was so  stupid to never see that you and Arjun were truly in love. I was so wrong to poison Ovi’s mind and do this to all of you. I want to help you Purvi. I can’t see you place yourself in misery again. You did it once, and I can’t let you do it again. I owe you that much.” “Stop it! Please! You don’t owe me anything. Sorry Tai, but you’ve done damage to our names before, and i won’t let you defame us again in front of Rohan’s family. This marriage will happen.” _ “Fine. Don’t defame the family, but are you going to defame the feelings of your heart? Do you have that strength to put your heart and soul to another man? I am sure you can’t Purvi. Stop lying to yourself. You have the chance. Take it.” Punni wiped her tears and left the house.

Purvi plopped onto her bed. What the hell just happened? So many people didn’t want this happening yet she wanted to go through it … or did she? Rohan asked if i was ready. Teju told me to think it over. Punni tells me I’m lying to myself. But I’m not! I know i’m not! Everyone’s words rung in her ears like a taperecorder was on replay. “You made a mistake before, do you think this will be another?” “"Stop this wedding. Stop it. Break it off.”“ "Stop lying to yourself” She covered her ears and closed her eyes shut. Everything came back, every single scene, every single breath taken, every single sight. The first tigress and wolf fights, the mandir, the dances, the cold night walk, the confession, every rain scene possible, the acceptance, the nok jhoks, the challenge, the car rides, the cup of teas, the engagement, the alleyway romance, the phone calls, the injuries,  the tears, the break up, the wedding, …. everything just flashed one more time in front of her eyes. Her insides screamed and she couldn’t handle it. She was super confused, she didn’t know where her mind was and she had no idea what to think of what her heart represented. She slipped the ring she kept on for so long off her finger and grabbed hold of it strong and dozed off her dilemma. Whether the sleep would get rid of her heart ache or not was another story.

He stood by his window. It was just like this that night- the night i realized what she meant to me. It was dark, and windy, and no one was there to help me. He looked up to the sky. Mom, i wish you were here. Really, you wouldn’t have let all this happen to me. Things could’ve been different. I could’ve had the two most important loves of my life with me; you and … her. But I have nothing today. Nothing at all. I stand alone here. He closed his eyes and remembered how he changed from his rude, arrogant self to an understanding human. It was all because of her, and tomorrow, she’ll be someone else’s… forever. Everyone will forget completely that an Arjun loved a Purvi and a Purvi loved an Arjun. We’ll probably make it to the books of most unsuccessful love stories in the history of love stories. He laid down on his sofa, not even his bed, and his body fell asleep, though his mind was still awake.

*The Wedding Day*

_ “Purvi!! Hurry and wake up! Go take a shower!!” yelled Archana from across the hall. She struggled in opening her eyes, she must have been crying the whole night- her eyes were puffed and she felt tear marks down her cheek and neck. She didn’t even change from hfer sangeet outfit. She got off the bed and showered. Evening fell and there was just four hours left. She was sitting by the window the whole day. She didn’t talk to anyone or leave her room. Hugging her knees, she sat on her window ledge, just staring into space. Everything needed for Purvi to be dressed was laid on the bed. Rohan’s family wished for a traditional wedding instead of a Marathi wedding and so Purvi’s attire matched. A light red and green, gold embroidered lehenga laid on the bed - with jewellery, make up and the necessities.. Sulochna, Savita and Teju walked into the room, read to help Purvi to dress herself. _ “Pur… Purvi?” the three were stunned at Purvi. Sitting alone by the window wasn’t a scene they were expecting from the would be bride.

_ “Purvi come here! It’s almost time” yelled Savita. She clearly could not see the hidden pain in the situation. Teju and Sulochna knew though, they understood the damsel in distress and tried to snap her out of it. Sulochna hugged Purvi and kissed her forehead, “I pray Bappa keeps you blessed.” Purvi’s eyes glistened. She wished she could just open up and spill everything she kept inside. Teju pulled on Purvi’s hands, wanting to look at the mehndi. “Oh my god Purvi! Your mehndi is so dark. They say, the darker the color, the more love. Whoever’s name this mehndi was drawn with loves you a lot” Purvi snatched her hands away. “If you all don’t mind, I want to get dressed by myself, please. I don’t want help” Purvi didn’t mean to be rude, but all she really wanted was to be alone till she was swarmed with guests and celebrations for something she herself was so confused about. Teju, Savita and Sulochna looked dumbfounded at each other. Savita insisted she wanted to help, but Teju pulled away and the three left Purvi behind all by herself.

She heard the footsteps of many people filling the hall and could just feel time ticking faster than ever. She put on her outfit given to her (x).

He slipped on a simple sherwani- today he wasn’t going to wear a suit. He wasn’t at a business meeting. He was at a family friend’s wedding - not his lover’s wedding - just a family friend. He had that much of a duty to look happy, and dress happily- even if he wasn’t inside. (Arjun wore (x))

It was his wedding day yet he felt he was the guest. Not appearance wise ofcourse- his sherwani was out of this world (x)- but mentally he felt it. He should be happy inside- he was getting married. But the weak friendship nerve inside of him tingled. I should understand, even if she doesn’t want to.

She placed her earrings and necklace on herself and went to put on her bridal bangles when she noticed the red ones she was already wearing. She touched them slightly and tears formed in her eyes. I never wanted anything- i’ve never been a material girl- but these; these meant the world to me. I remember how he pushed them on to my wrists, and smiled because of my excitement. And now today I’m wearing bangles in the name of another man. How weird is life. Purvi finished getting dressed with a good hour or so on her hand. She went back to her window. Clouds had formed in the night sky. That’s weird- the weatherman said tonight was supposed to be clear- is it going to rain ? She placed her hands outside the window and felt little drops on her palms. She took her hands back, and walked out to the balcony attached to her room and walked up the stairs to the terrace. The rain wasn’t so bad- more like drizzles. She stood out in the middle of the terrace, her arms wide open. Boy was that a stress reliever for her. She looked out to her hands that spread out and brought them to herself. She never really did look at the henna on her hands; remembering how she snatched her hands away from Teju.What was it Teju said? Oh yes, They say, the darker the color, the more love. She looked at the intricate designs on her hands to her elbows. Must say, the henna artists are magnificent with their work. So they say the husband’s name or initial is hidden somewhere in the designs right? Ive got time to spare and to cool down, so why don’t i look for it. She searched her whole design and couldn’t find the letter R. These henna artists are very mischievous themselves. Purvi looked a little more and some sort of a letter caught her eyes. It seemed like an R, but more so … it looked like an A. Purvi looked at her hands in disbelief. How could the henna artists mess up his name! Purvi thought back to her sangeet and remembered an incident when she was dancing with Rohan, whining to keep her hands safe. That must have been it, somehow the henna smudged while dancing. The rounded top of the R smudged into a straight line, forming the first letter of the alphabet. But ugh, what to do now! The name this mehndi is for is no longer there! It’s an A … an … A… Her breathing took an abrupt stop and she looked up from her hands. The little light that was on the terrace dimmed as the figure in front her blocked the little light . “A…A…Ar-Arjun?”

She moved an inch or two back. “What are you doing here? Why are you here?”

_ “Rude much? You could have said hello you know”

She looked down and realized she was being a little rude. Maybe he was here just because- it didn’t matter to her anyways.

“Uh… you .. you um, came to my wedding …”

_“How could i not? You came to my wedding” His words pierced her insides.

“Oh, hmm, well, how’s life? Heard you live in London now?”

He laughed a little, “Life’s well Purvi. London’s great. It’s always raining over there- was the only witness of the major part of my life, and now I decided to stick with it"

She knew exactly what ‘major part’ of life he was talking about; but it was true. And like before, today the two stood together, even if they were apart, and the only witness was the rain.

"Oh, i see. Um, do you, uh … live alone in London? Like, does DK uncle stay-"

"No. I live by myself. You see, after being dumped the first time by my fiance, i was dumped by my wife too.” Arjun chuckled.

Purvi was taken aback. What was he talking about? What did Ovi do?

“What do you mean?"

_ "I got stuck between two sisters. One loved me and left. The other was obsessed for a while and left me. But you know, life moves on, right? You’re doing so too.”

Purvi looked down once more. Ovi left Arjun? What on earth?

_“You must be excited right Purvi? It’s your wedding day! Must say, you look beautiful. Rohan’s a lucky man. He’s a long time best friend right? The lad’s good. He’ll keep you happy …. I’m sure”

The more Arjun tried to keep a normal conversation, the harder it became. He tried to suppress his feelings, but the more he talked about the future of his love, the higher his feelings rose.

“Arjun… I’m … I’m sorry” Sounds of trumpets and drums went on full swing and the girls downstairs ran to the baraat with their umbrellas. Thunder struck, and the rain fell even harder at this moment. The two became drenched and Arjun just gaped.

“Im sorry Arjun. I, I ruined both of our lives. I was wrong. I wasn’t thinking. I was wrong to do that to you.”

Arjun stepped closer, and Purvi stepped back again.

“But you know what, you’re stupid too.” Arjun’s eyes widened. She’s still crazy.

“Why’d you listen to me?”

_ “Because I love you Purvi”

“That’s the problem! Why do you love me! Im not worth it Arjun. That love that you have for me has ruined us. There is no us anymore. Look where we stand now! Why did you love me so much that you listened just because I said so?”

He didn’t know how to control the girl- she was in hysterics. This was not good, especially on her wedding day.

_“Purvi, whatever’s happened has happened. We’re both to blame. You thought you could deal without me, and i thought i could be the perfect prince and heed your words. But we’re both wrong. And we just have to accept it.”

“Arjun, you know things won’t be the same, but, why’d you come here? Doesn’t it hurt you?”

_“I know. I just wanted to see if my love was going to be happy, and Rohan is a good guy. Yes it does hurt me Purvi. It hurts a lot, but the the question is, doesn’t it hurt you too?”

“Even if it does, it doesn’t change anything.” She sighed, “Arjun, here’s your ring. I havent taken it off ever since, but now i cant keep it anymore. Please take it."

_"So I should i give you mine too?” Arjun waved his left hand in front of her.

Pools formed in her eyes and she shook er head. “No, keep both.” She handed him the ring and moved back.

_“I’ll always love you Purvi, no matter what”

“I have to go, the groom is here”

She turned around and walked to the stairs that led to her room. He’s only here to see me one last time. To just see if I’ll be happy. How do I tell him that I don’t even know what’s going on myself.

The lights on the terrace began to dim again and Purvi turned around. Holding the bottom of her skirt and being careful not to slip on the wet concrete floor, she hugged him from the back.

“I love you so much Arjun. I can’t live without you. I know it’s late and Im getting married, but i won’t be able to give the same door to Rohan. I won’t have that strength left in me. Ar-Arjun? Ar…”

Purvi’s eyes widened.

[benaamrishtawoh]

BICWTEWY- Part 3

_ …. his heart skipped what seemed like a million beats.

He opened his mouth to speak but all that came out was the cold winter breath. “I thought you needed to know, I don’t-” He threw his phone across the office and it shattered to tiny pieces… basically reflecting what his heart looked like at the moment. Married? This Friday? That’s two days from today. That means… she’s back home. But why didn’t she tell me she came back? Oh wait… she didn’t even tell me she left… He sighed and unbuttoned his top buttons and released his neck. What can I do? Should I go? He folded his hands and raised them against his forehead. But what would Aunty and Uncle say? They know what we had, what if I’m not even invited? Dad definitely is though, they wouldn’t un-invite him. He took his hands away from his forehead and eyed the silver band on the finger of his left hand. I still wear it, never took it off. He took out his second phone and dialed instantly. “Hello Dad? How are you? … Yeah I’m fine, uh, Dad, i think your son’s coming for a visit” and he swiftly hung up, not even listening to what his father might have had to say. He ran his fingers through his unkempt dark brown hair, grabbed his heavy coat and walked out to the grey andrainy London morning. *Early in the Morning* “Aai, i have a question, concerning invitations.” _ “Yeah, ask, it’s your wedding Purvi” said Archana as dhe performed the aarti. “Um, Aai, is Punni invited… I mean is Vinod-” _ “Yes. I didn’t want to exactly but Vinod dada and Manju tai didn’t do anything and should be at your wedding, they are-” “ "Yeah, that’s right, but… Punni?” She thought to herself, if Aai has banned Ovi from the family, then she probably knows about Punni being in all this too… _“Yes, I can’t tell dada to come and un-invite his daughter. Why, is that a problem dear? Should I tell her not to-” “No no Aai! Please, don’t. I want everyone at my wedding … everyone” Funny how everyone is coming but him, she spoke to herself walking back to her room. _ “Purvi, be ready quickly, I’m sending Teju to help you! Quick quick!” Archana quipped from behind.

The haldi, mehndi, and sangeet celebrations were all being worked on, Manav and Archana made sure this time nothing was lacking in their daughter’s big day.

Purvi sat in her room and looked at all the dresses laid upon the bed - a pale yellow saree, a magenta lehenga choli, and a red anarkali. Her haldi was held a little later in the morning, around noon time almost, and a small joint sangeet was supposed to be done in the evening while Purvi got her hands done with mehendi. The haldi ceremony went pretty smooth with no hassles of any sort.

*Evening*

Purvi felt a lump in her throat. She felt so uneasy, almost like she could pass out. She just told herself she was nervous for tomorrow, but she felt weird, as if something wasn’t right, more like something wasn’t going to go right. She took a shower and came out to get dressed in a red anarkali, but then changed into the magenta lehenga choli. The gift Arjun gave me during our engagement was also magenta… “Teju, How do I look?” _ “Ahh, absolutely fantastic Purvi! Watch, when Rohan comes on, he’ll fall head over heels!” Purvi gave a weak smile and tried her hardest to be happy and she sat in front of her dresser. Teju noticed tge hard look on her sister’s face and went behind her. _ “Are you happy with this wedding Purvi?” that wasn’t the first time she was asked that.

“Why? Of course I am, I mean, it’s my wedding, of course I’m happy. Rohan’s my best friend, he’s a good man, a good-” _“But you’re still stuck on Arjun aren’t you?” Purvi looked down. Was it really that visible? _“Look at yourself Purvi. Look at what you’re going to do. Is this actually right for you? You made a mistake before, do you think this will be another?” “Teju, how many more times am i going to get ready for my wedding and break it? I’m alright with this really. Rohan knows everything, I know he’ll keep me happy.” Teju wanted to ask Purvi if she’ll be able to keep Rohan happy too, but she decided against it. She smiled at her beautifully adorned sister and took her out to the decorated site and had her sit down on a red couch. _ “The Henna artists and family should be here soon okay, just sit around, I’ll go help with the arrangements, alright?” Close family from both sides entered the room and soon enough the sangeet begun. _ “Aniket! Where’s the music yaar! Ugh, he’s of no use sometimes” yelled Teju from across the room. _ “Oh look, the henna artists are here too! Let’s go, quick, start on the bride, it’s gonna be a long evening, we don’t have to wait for the groom for this stuff” The henna artists began from Purvi’s forearm and the beautiful smell of henna filled the room. Just then, Purvi remembered she left her phone back in her room. “Uh, wait, give me a minute please, I’ll be right back.” Purvi got up, being careful not to mess up the not dry henna art on her hand and walked to her room holding the bottom of her skirt. _ “My my, how beautiful does the princess look?” complimented a rather deep monotone voice. Purvi turned back smiling, quite happy with the compliment.

“Why thank you DK … uncle, you look quite good yourself. You’re rocking that blue kurta uncle! I’m glad you made it to the function” but the enthusiasm slowly faded in Purvi’s face when a face she was not expecting, or more like deeply wished was with her today, appeared behind DK. Dressed in a nice tan kurta, his hair slicked back, his eyes dark as never before, Purvi felt herself fumble. Avoiding a meet and greet, Purvi said she had to go get her phone and she did. She came back to her seat in the living room and repeatedly told herself to breathe in and out, in and out. Her mental note did help her from breaking apart but it did almost nothing- his presence just changed everything. Even everyone in the room felt the sudden change in atmosphere- it was like they knew this wedding wasn’t right. He stood and leaned next to one of the walls, allowing him to get a rather clean view of the bride- deep inside, he really didn’t know why he flew back to India. He started life afresh in London, and things were going fine- just him and his business; absolutely fabulous. Maybe he felt he should stop the wedding, but maybe, instead of being melodramatic by stopping a wedding, he just wished to see her face one last time. Maybe he just wanted to see the princess step into her future happiness. Yup, that was it, he just came to see she was going to be happy in her new life. _ “Oh look! They’re here!” Teju squealed as members from Rohan’s family stepped in, Rohan walking in last. Teju and Archana went to do a small ‘aarti’.

_ “Fashionably late hmm?” Teju nudged Rohan by the elbows and smiled.

_ “Come in” Rohan, dressed in a simple, yet elegant green sherwani looked around to see where Purvi was sitting, but immediately frowned at her state. The worried and scared expressions were clearly visible, at least to him. The music turned on louder and while Purvi sat and got her henna done, Rohan went around and met everyone. _ “Teju, how many more people do I have to meet?” _ “You’re tired meeting just these few? Wait till tomorrow haha. Only a few more, promise” Rohan laughed and sighed at all the walking he kept doing around the room. His eyes then caught the attention of one man who stood a little off to the side, away from all the fun. Can it be?… it is! Rohan asked Teju who the man was that stood off to the side and she sulked a bit. _ “Him? Oh; uh, I grew up with him while in Canada. His father, DK, is my dad’s business partner and good friend. When dad moved back to India, he also moved. He’s -” _ “Arjun Kirloskar” Rohan said blunty. Teju looked surprised, “How’d you know? I mean you never saw him right?” _ “Ehh, wild guess. Come on let’s go talk to him” _ “I don’t know Rohan, he might not be willing to-” _ “Ah what the heck, atleast if I make myself look good, then if we ever need to battle each other, he’ll remember me as a good person” _ “uh.. Wait, why would you two ever fight anyways?” _ “Over Purvi of course” Rohan chuckled and took a head start to strike a conversation with Arjun. _ “Hi Arjun!” his grim eyes widened at the enthusiastic greeting. But he didn’t know who he was….

_ “Um, hello?! You are … ?”

_ “Come on now! You’re at the wedding and you don’t even know who the groom is?” Arjun sulked where he stood and tried not to look straight at Rohan. _“Uh, congratulations bud.” his fists hardened. Arjun decided to excuse himself from Rohan and went to grab something to eat. I need to control myself.

_ “This is one boring party, no one’s dancing? Come on, hey you, yeah come here! Let’s start, no one else wants to” Aniket pulled at Teju and Sachin, and soon the whole family and guests joined in.

music : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZmfg5yvNOM listen from 3:18 to 4:25

_ “Purvi! Come on!” She nodded a no in reply to Rohan, yet he still pleaded. She signaled she couldn’t, she had henna on.

_ “I don’t care come here!” Rohan went and pulled Purvi up from her seat and started dancing. Not knowing what to do, Purvi tried to clap along. The dancing vibes in her seemed to have vanish too. But soon enough, her body and mind responded to her bestfriend and she forgot her hesitation and joined in full swing. Laughing and smiling, the two danced together.

Na samjhe nadaan hai ye mera ehsaan hai Chaahe jo isko keh do keh do Chhede muhko jaan ke Badle mein ehsaan ke De diya dil isko keh do keh do Teju pushed Arjun in to the crowd. If DK was dancing, why not Arjun? Arjun looked at Teju a little annoyed but joined the crowd too. As fate decides, thetwo have to collide, and they did. Some weird feeling the two tried to push back far far away came to life once their eyes met. Purvi’s eyes became moist again and her smile started to turn upside down. She opened her mouth to say something, but no sound made its way out. He didn’t want to look at her, it made things so much more complicated. He turned his back and danced with the others, while Purvi came to fave a broad, muscular back, dumbfounded.

Tu ye na jaane dil toote bhi deewane (Tu ye na jaane dil toote bhi deewane)

Rohan came over again and snapped his fingers in front of Purvi. He motioned as to what happened, but Purvi whispered nothing.

Tera deewana kya bole hai sun sun sun Sajanji ghar aaye sajanji ghar aaye

Dulhan kyon sharmaaye, Sajanji ghar aaye…

The sangeet had come to an end, and most of the guests decided to go back home. Purvi again sat in the middle of the seat, and Teju sat with her whispering whatever she needed to.

Vinod and his family, Sulochna, Aniket and DK+ Arjun stayed back for awhile.

_ “Okay, listen, how do i know you’re perfect for my sister? How do i know you won’t break her heart” Aniket asked, god knowing what kept him so energized all the time.

Alarmed a little by the question, Rohan responded, “Because i know i won’t”

Arjun who was sipping a cup of coffee at this late hour of night, spoke from his seat, “It’s always the guys that are asked about breaking the heart.  Girls can be very sly…”

Purvi’s eyes glistened. Is he accusing me now? Great, just what i needed.

_ “But some girls have a gem of a heart” Rohan indirectly defended his best friend and smiled at Arjun. Rohan meant no harm, but he could see how Arjun might be feeling at the moment. He just didn’t want Arjun to hate Purvi, he was sure he could never. Actually, Rohan didn’t even know where he stood in this triangle.

*Late at Night*

Purvi looked at herself in the mirror as she took off her ornaments. Through the mirror, she noticed a figure standing at her door.

*knock knock* She heaved a huge sigh, and asked in a monotone voice, “What do you want?” “I need to talk to you”

[benaamrishtawoh]

BICWTEWY- Part 2

_ “Purvi, don’t worry. I’m here for you and you know that… Come on, let’s go downstairs”.

---

_ “You guys are back, okay great, so tell us, what do you lot think?” Manav asked impatiently, Archana gripping his arms. Rohan looked back at Purvi and Purvi to Rohan and smiled. “It’s a yes Mom” Rohan whipered, “from both of us”. The elders distributed their sweets and fixed the nearest auspicious date; Friday, that meant two days till the bigday. *Next Morning* “So Rohan, tell me! When’d you come back from New York?” _ “I came back two months ago about, New York is fantastic i tell you” “Two months ago? And i didn’t even know? I’m such a bad best friend, right?” Purvi giggled as she stepped out of the back of the car with Rohan. _ “Driver, listen, come back in another two hours or so, it’s your free time for now.” Rohan turned around to see Purvi nearing a bench at the park. She waved her hands at him to come join her. _ “So i heard the engagement’s tonight. Are you ready? You know I was thinking I’d come wearing a sherwani, but maybe a suit is bet- ah… Purvi?” Purvi looked down again at her left hand. The same ring sparkled even more under the bright sun. “Did you know Rohan, that there’s a vein from this very finger that connects to the heart?” Purvi chuckled sarcastically, “A ring is placed here on this very finger out of love, trust, and faith.” Purvi twisted the ring off her fingers just when Rohan placed his hands down on hers and stopped her. Rohan nodded his head no, “Purvi… uhm, don’t you think the elders are kind of rushing all of this? I mean there’s just two days time, that’s a little crazy isn’t it?” “No Rohan, it’s absolutely fine!” Rohan dug into his pockets and dialed his mother, “Umm yeah Mom, do you mind cancelling the engagement?” Purvi’s eyes widened. Rohan put his hand out to signal her to relax. “No mom, dont worry. Im not cancelling the wedding, god. Just cancel the engagement, it’s not needed really…” “Okay, thanks Mom. See you” Purvi stared at Rohan, her eyes still wide open, questioning what he just did. _ “Stop trying to change your feelings.” Purvi sulked in her seat, her hands fidgeting with the bottom of her kameez. Nearby, a man at his vending cart yelled out, “Gol gappa! Garaam garaam gol gappa!” Rohan stepped away from Purvi and went to get four plates of gol gappas, remembering how much Purvi likes them. _“Here you go maam”

“Not bad Mr Kapoor, you’re memory’s pretty sharp. It wasn’t like that during college”

Rohan made a face and began the usual gol gappa contest. Purvi was so engrossed in finishing her gol gappas first like always, she forgot who she was with… or maybe the name just came to her naturally. “See Arjun! I told you before! You can’t beat me at this. You don’t have it in you Arj-” Purvi wiped a little from her face and bit her tongue and looked away.

Shit! He probably thinks I’m insane, she thought to herself. Rohan awkwardly smiled, he really didn’t know what to do. “uhh.. Sorry Rohan… bad force of habit” _ “Not complaining at all” He tried his best to lighten up the mood. He wanted his best friend back, the jhansi ki rani girl, the happy girl. Rohan dropped Purvi home and a few minutes later Purvi came bak to the car doors. From the rolles windows she asked, “Rohan, did you cancel the engagement just so.. just so i could keep it on?” Rohan laughed, “When you know the answers, why do you ask me?” he shook his head and smiled at Purvi, “Let’s go driver” She watched him leave. He’s such a good friend.

*That Night*

Purvi took her night shower and went to check what her Aai was doing. Still after all that mess she pulled on herself, her Aai was still somewhat on her utmost top priority list.

“Aai, what are you doing?”

_ “Oh just fixing up last minute invitations. Come here, sit with me”

Purvi picked up the invitation list and no where on it did she see the name she wanted to. She figured she should ask what exactly happened in the past few months during her absence, it’s been almost a week I’ve returned and not a single visit or call was given.

“Uhm.. Aai.. Is Ovi Tai .. i mean, how is she doing?”

_“Ovi? She’s moved to Canada. And please, don’t call her Tai, she’s not … a part of this family”

“Aai? What are you talking about?”

_ “Listen, whatever happened has happened. I don’t wish to talk about it. There was never an Ovi in our lives, and-”

“But Aai, she’s the daughter of this family!”

_ “So is Teju and you! I’m a mother, and i can’t overlook my other two for one’s selfish deeds”

Purvi looked back at the invitation list, But what about him? Purvi got up to go back to her room when Archana called her back.

_ “Arjun’s moved to London for his business.”

“I didn’t ask”

_ “I know but I thought I should tell you.”

*Earlier that Same Morning*

She briskly dialed the foreign number hoping she’d hear a voice at the other end.

Please pick up, please pick up, please pick up, please, just once’ was all her mind could think.

One ring, two rings, three rings, fail. Repeat.

GOD DAMMIT pick up the phone!

One ring, two rings, three- “Hello” spoke a a strong, yet weak and raspy voice.

The girl’s heart found hope, “Hello, are you there?”

_ “What do you want?” he was so firm.

“Please don’t hang up, please listen to me.”

_ “You’ve got two minutes time”

“Trust me, i won’t even need two minutes”

He sighed on the other end of the phone, leaning back on his amber seat closing his eyes a little, he wasn’t in a mood to be bothered.

“Purvi’s … She’s … she’s getting married this Friday,”

With that his eyes shot open and his heart skipped what seemed like a billion beats.

[benaamrishtawoh]

BICWTEWY- Part 1

She stepped out of her car and walked to Deshmukh Residence. It’s been so long since I’ve seen everyone. I miss them; there’s nothing better than home.

“Aai? Baba? Teju?!” she asked as she walked in the house. Her Aai’s heart filled with warmth seeing her baby girl after months. Her exit from home filled such emptiness in every nook and corner. *Flashback* Diwali celebrations were at its fullest. Manav Deshmukh requested his home to be transformed into a palace of lights. The atmosphere itself spoke blissful and entertainment. But a little later in the evening called for some unexpected news of letting go, if that even was the right words to use in this case. “I’m leaving” _ “To where? You can’t leave yet, the festival hasn't even started! Here, come with-” “No Aai, I have to leave. I don’t have a choice.” Archana looked at her daughter, draped in a beautiful emerald green sari, and stared in shock; why does she want to leave? “I know you have many questions… Remember the job I had gotten recently? The one at S. Industries? I've been appointed co-manager at the New Delhi branch, and so I have to stay there for my job.” _ “What?! New Delhi! Purvi, why can’t you stay at the branch here! That’s far! I just got my family back, don’t leave!” “Aai, please, look, i need to move on and make something of myself. I can’t just sit here and watch. I have a life, and i need to rebuild the pieces that are broken-“

_“You mean the ones Ovi broke?” “uhh, uhm, Aai, I wasn’t talking about … Ovi and … Ar-” _ “But that’s also why you want to leave right? Tell me now that that is not a lie? You have to leave due to work, but somewhere inside, Ovi and her marriage is the driving force, isn’t it?” “Aai, i, i have… gotten over it. Please, now don’t worry me with these thoughts. I am trying my best to push back my feelings and deal with reality. I just need to get away and focus. Please, understand Aai.”

Purvi hugged her mother and held her hands in reassurance that she’ll be able to take care of herself. Archana noticed her daughters left hand and she swallowed hard; this is so difficult. _ “Purvi, don’t you want to see the others before you leave? At least stay for the lights!”

Purvi shook her head, “No Aai. It’ll just be a turn off for the party when i tell them i have to leave today and I don’t want to see them… I already have to withstand a distance..” she sighed, “I’ll leave now Aai… i’ll keep you informed. Don’t worry about me”

Purvi walked away from her Aai and secretly walked down the lobby stairs. She turned back from the front doors and searched the crowd; there he stood. His black sherwani shimmered on his glowing skin- but his eyes lacked that shimmer; they were pit-less  lifeless almost. She turned around and walked put the doors. Biting her lip, she  tried her best to keep herself from crying. She couldn’t even say good bye to him. What a life. *flashback end* _ “Purvi! I’ve missed you so much! That was too long of a distance! How are you? How’s your health?! Do you like New Delhi? How’s work coming along? Have you been eating-“ “Woah! Aai! I see you've been practicing your twenty questions, haven’t you?” Purvi hugged her mom. _ “What to do Purvi, now that your back, Aai’s gonna take every little chance to admire you till you leave again” Teju teased.

“Again? I’m done with New Delhi Teju, so im here with all of you” _“Nuh uh, the baraat will be here before you know it” Teju smiled, then biting her tongue, realizing she spoke too much. Purvi’s eyes bulged out of her sockets. “Baraat?” Purvi’s smile diminished. She began to hate anything related to marriage. She ruined her own and practically lost her belief in marriage.

“uhm, Aai, what is Teju talking about?” _ “Oh look who it is! Welcome home Purvi!” Manav came out of the shower and hugged his daughter. “Hold on a minute, can you all explain to me what Teju is actually talking about? Teju what are you saying?” _“Listen, Purvi, while you were gone, a few suitors came for you. We haven’t finalized anything, just if you say so then we-“ “Suitors? Purvi mubled to herself and looked down. wow

_ “Look, Purvi, dear, we won’t rush you, it’s all your dec-”

“Whatever seems right to you all will be fine by me … Really…” Purvi got up and went to her room to freshen up and put herself to sleep.

Before going to sleep, Purvi stood in her balcony, wrapping a shawl around her since it was kind of chilly. Wow, he didn’t even come to see me, not even as a friend…

*Three Days Later*

“Aai, I’m going out for a bit, i’ll be back before sundown” Purvi said from the doors. _ “Wait! Purvi, is it an emergency?! Do you need to go?” “No Aai, i just wanted to go out. Why, do you need anything?” _ “Purvi, remember how we told you about the suitors? The boy’s coming today to see you…” “Oh… so should I… i mean, I should stay then? Right? Okay Aai. I’ll be in my room” Purvi walked to her room and sat herself on her bed after getting dressed elegantly for her possible would be-in-laws. It’s been three days, not even a call was given? Ah, what the heck. I’m supposed to be moving on. I need to forget my name was ever connected to his. _ “Purvi! They’re here!” Teju walked into Purvi’s room, dressed in a simple salwar, and came to take Purvi out. Purvi sat next to the man, not looking up to even take one glance at his face. _ “So yes, this is my daughter Purvi. Purvi, this is Rohan, Rohan Kapoor” Purvi’s eyes widened. She looked at the man sitting next to her and took one deep breath. “Rohan? You? What … How? What are you doing here?” she asked all at once, curiously. Archana looked at Rohan’s mother, confused. Rohan’s mother spoke, “Ah, Rohan? You know her?” “Yes Aunty, Rohan and I were kind of good friends in college! Then he moved to New York for his masters” Purvi chirped, her tone suddenly became so happy. _ “Kind of good friends? Come on Purvi, we were like best friends” “Okay okay, we were best friends. But what brings you here?” Rohan shrugged and smiled, “I guess I am to be your groom, no?” The others in the room smiled, but the little curve on Purvi’s mouth slowly disappeared, and of course, Rohan didn’t let that go unnoticed. _ “Uhm, Archana Aunty, if you don’t mind, would it be fine if you know, Purvi and I go talk for a bit? Just to you know…” Archana nodded and Rohan followed Purvi to the terrace. “I can’t believe you’re here Rohan!  It’s been forever! When did you-“ _ “Are you okay with this marriage?” his voice was cold and Purvi was taken aback. “Uhh what do you mean am i okay…” _ “You know why. Purvi, I have been your best friend for the longest time. The minute i said i was ‘to be your groom’, the smile on your face disappeared. Yes, I noticed that. Purvi, i know you pretty well; you’re hiding something.” Purvi let out a laugh. “Just because i didn’t smile you’re doubting me?” _ “No, not doubting you. But i know, there’s something wrong” “Rohan, there’s nothing. Just the thought of leaving my family is sad.” Rohan grabbed hold of Purvi’s left hand. “There’s nothing wrong right? Can i question this ring on your left hand then? It’s clearly an engagement ring. Purvi, i’m not here to judge you, but i don’t want you to bottle everything and get married to me. We’re friends first.” Purvi slipped her hands out of Rohan’s and looked at the perfect cut, glistening diamond ring on her left hand. “This ring holds probably holds no importance now. But once, this ring was my connection … his connection …our connection. This is the closest we ever got to becoming one. And then circumstances were such that i couldn’t keep what was mine; maybe i didn’t have any rights over him after this binding. No mangalsutra, no sindoor, but this ring is the only sign i have that reminds me that he was once mine-” _ “Who?” “…. Arjun… But that doesn’t matter. He’s not mine.” _ “Purvi, you’re really funny, you know?”

Rohan walked a little far from Purvi, turning away from her. _ “I say he is yours. He was, is, and will be yours forever. Why are you marrying me? So you can move on? If you could have moved on, you would have the day you two separated. You wouldn’t still be wearing your engagement ring. Purvi, you clearly love him so go get him” “BUT I CANT ROHAN! You dont understand! I have broken the well built pieces myself! I let go of him. I told him to get married to someone else the day we were to be married. I played with his feelings. But he hasn’t said a single word of rudeness to me. He agreed just because thats what I told him to do.” Purvi sat on the terrace bench and covered her face. Rohan came and sat besides Purvi consoling her. _ “Purvi, why didn’t you tell me?” “One, i had no contact info. Two, I didn’t even know this was what was going to happen. I was so sure i was to be married to the man of my dreams, I was a hundred percent sure. But i decided to look at everyone else and think about about them before mine. I just ended up ruining three lives.” _ “Three?” “Yes, Ovi’s life too. Arjun and Ovi 'married’. Ovi came to me asking for Arjun so Aai would get her family back. Aai did, but it wasn’t because of me, and in this mess, i lost Arjun, Arjun lost me, and Ovi’s dreams of a perfect married life won’t come true because Arjun has specifically told me he’ll marry her but won’t be able to love her, ever.” _ “That b**ch asked for Arjun in place of her mother’s family. Is she an id-“ “Rohan please. Drop the topic. I’ve told you everything now. If you still want to marry me, you may. I have no objection” _ “But Purvi, why do you want to marry me?” “Rohan, I need to move on. I need to progress in life. Honestly, i don’t even know if Im capable of being married, I’ve ruined my own. But I’m happy it’s you Rohan- you’re a really good friend Rohan” Purvi wiped her tears and smiled at Rohan. _ “Purvi, don’t worry. I’m here for you and you know that… Come on, let’s go downstairs”.