Part 9: Loving you was neither a choice nor an option, Loving you is my addiction.

Part 9: Loving you was neither a choice nor an option,

             Loving you is my addiction.

“Hey Asi Good Morning.” Priya greeted the receptionists who stood up to honor the boss. Sit, Priya said looking to the key box hung just left to her. Asi followed her boss’s interrogative eyes and asked if she may help with anything.

“Jayesh Uncle is still not here, right?” asked Priya, “Not even the clients.”

“No ma’am..” she wanted to be more informative but Priya expressed her relief beforehand. “Ma’am” the receptionist cuts in, “But he called asking about you.”  She looked really afraid this time. Priya asked about her reply and when she learnt that Asi has said the truth about her non arrival till then, she became nervous.

“Shit!” Priya sighed deep and twirled at her place once, when she faced Asi again, she faked a smile and almost ran upstairs. The receptionist got back to work with more relief.

~~

“Meera..” Priya almost bumped into the room, where her two important managers and her Personal Secretary were engrossed in something Meera was trying to make understand. “Sorry guys.” She settled herself on of the chairs which were left unoccupied.

“Good Morning Priya.” Meera greeted her, “What’s the matter? I guess something is really urgent to discuss right.”

No said Priya with a smile. She now looked to her team and reminded about the importance of the clients and how important the deal is going to be for their present and future. “Guys we have managed so many business; right, and almost every business is a success for you guys whom I have in my team. But this is something big, our first entry into the finance capital of the country, and that also with the Kapoor Industries. Tough the contract, if we can crack the deal, will be signed for their telecom industries which Ram Kapoor will handle hence forth, we will aim to outsource their complete customer services to us. This is the bull’s eye. Once we are in there we can explore more and more.”

Interrupted by Meera, Priya looked up, “But this will need communicate with the Kapoor Industries regularly isn’t it?”

“Not really that much and if any decision making part has to be handle you or I, anyone of us will go else the team will handle it. As we used to do all these days.” Priya sounded confident, “ I am not worried about it Meera, I am worried about the deal.”

“Why?” Meera asked back.

“Haan. Nothing” she sounded lost.

“Guys!” Meera clapped, “get some coffee, freshen up they will be here in a moment, which means nonstop meeting and scribbling please go and get yourselves refreshed.” After the room was occupied by her and Priya she sat on her chair just opposite to Priya and smiled.

“What? What for the hell you are smiling?” Priya snapped at her.

“First time you were late and you didn’t even tell me that you have already meet the hot shot Kapoor Son.” She chuckled.

“What Hot shot! Fat Shot will be more apt. You haven’t meet him yet that’s why.” Priya ignored.

“Well, Hot shot or Fat Shot! I am booked nah!” She winked pointing to her wedding ring.

“To the most handsome hunk I ever met. If you want Ram, then dedo mujhe apna husband..” Priya and Meera laughed in unison.

“No seriously you took him to look around yesterday?” Meera was surprised, “Priya Sharma and Boys the matching is quite unbelievable. Well what did you discuss then?”

“To what you are hinting to?”

“The 12^th man.”

“No ways haan, No 12^th man. Even if I will handle it.” Priya looked at the mirror which she took out from her bag to give a final touch to her makeup.

“All 11 were less influential than you. Ram Kapoor is more influential than you…” She was interrupted by Priya abruptly. She asked if her parents or Jayesh has told her anything about such plans to her. When No was the answer from Meera, Priya looked reliefed, “Then why we are discussing all these.”

“As a punishment for your late coming.” Meera smiled broad.

With a loud tap on the door, came in Jayesh and behind him Amarnath Kapoor and Ram Kapoor. Meera and Priya stood up to greet the ultimate boss and the guests.

“What made you late today Priya?” Jayesh asked sharply.

“Nothing Sir, I have no excuses to defend. I am fully to blame.” Priya said in a low voice.

“Well, the team is ready, as we are already going 30 minutes late, we should start the presentation right away. What do you think Mr. Kapoor.” Jayesh turned to Amarnath. Upon agreement with the client Jayesh asked Priya to come with her team, while he asked Meera to join them. Ram was the last person to leave the room. He looked and smiled at Priya, probably he is the only person present in the room who knew the exact reason of getting late. “Looking Nice.” He complemented.

Now Priya looked up and almost scrutinized Ram from head to Toe. The cream colour suit with maroon shirt was perfectly matched with his personality. The black Armani shoes shined like a mirror. The collar button of the shirt left open, through which she could see the Ganesh Pendent, her eyes became red noticing the same. That moment still hurts her, and she cursed herself to give it to him which she bought from her first earned money from the tuitions she used to give. “Thanks Mr. Kapoor.” She walked to the door, “You must be get going, I need 10 minutes.” The tap from her heels echoed through the corridor. He kept on looking at her till she got vanished behind a door, and which bore the name as “Priya Sharma, CEO” he noticed it earlier when he walked past that door few minutes earlier.

~~

Almost 20 Minutes after , Priya came to the conference room, with Maya and Rajesh the two trusted employees of her, or rightly to be said her two hands, considering Meera to be the eyes. She introduced them to the clients and took the seat just by Ram, her regular spot. “Please start it Maya.” She asked.

Oddly Ram and Priya occupied the opposite seats, while Ram concentrated to the presentation completely; Priya had a divided concentration amongst Ram and presentation. The next fifteen minutes the room was occupied by the confident voice of Maya which was then lead by Rajesh for another fifteen.

“Quite impressive.” Ram sat straight. “But why didn’t you present this Ms Sharma?” He asked looking for an answer from Priya.

“Well Mr. Kapoor” Meera spoke, “Priya or I could have easily presented it you with pie charts, bar charts few previous success analysis; but what these two has explained to you in 30 minutes that even with minute details it would have taken more than 2 hours for us.”

“I see.” Ram responded back with a sober smile. “But I have few queries about the technical part.”

“That’s not an issue; we will arrange a meeting with the technical person.” Priya said.

“Not with me but with my Technical Head. He will be here by tomorrow. If you don’t mind can you fix the meeting tomorrow?” Ram said, “I am not so much technically sound, though I am having degree in it. He is the right person to clear all the facts.”

“Perfectly ok with us.” Priya turned to her PS and asked him to get an update with the schedule of Kavi, her technical head and also asked him to arrange a meeting with Ram Kapoor. “Anything else, if you want to ask Mr. Kapoor?” Priya asked.

“No not really, but I want to congratulate your team and you for having such confidence and for having them in your team.” Ram looked to his father, who responded back with a smile in agreement.

After the team left Jayesh took the seat of the meeting. “So if we are done, Priya I would suggest that you just check with Ram, he has any special clause to add.” Jayesh looked to Ram, “What we were discussing on our way here.”

“Special clause!” Priya got into shock.

“There was nothing such discussed Sir.” Meera defended Priya. “I mean what special clause?”

“That I will discuss with Priya.” Ram bite his tongue, “I mean Ms. Sharma.”

Priya looked clueless about the same, gesturing in disagreement she looked for help from Meera, who sat there defending Priya. “It’s Okay Mr. Kapoor, but I am the CFO, whatever clause you have should go through me. I have to make sure our company don’t run into crisis for those. So I would like to learn them too.”

“It’s not an issue, you can know it from Ms. Sharma, she can brief it you. I will discuss it with Ms. Sharma only.” Ram noticed the unpleasant look that Meera threw at him.

“Mr. Kapoor. I and Meera will be looking at this future prospective venture together, so whatever clause you have, that must be shared with her also, directly. If you don’t mind.” Priya sounded pretty offended this time. She quickly typed a message in her mobile and hit the sent button.

“Stop behaving like a non-sensical buger. If you were not my client I would have thrown you out for this dare.”

“What I have done?”  The reply came immediately.

“Meera is my mentor, my sister. Stop this nonsense.”  She again hit the send button.

“Anything you are thinking Ram.” Amarnath spoke, “I think both of them should know about your special clause. They are not someone who deals with clients with 5 employees or from a single room. They have many other clients like us so they have to divide their time to us.”

“Ya.” Ram agreed to his father, “I am sorry Ma’am” he apologized.

“It’s fine. Final call will be yours.” Meera replied, who sat there still unconvinced by Ram’s gesture.

When Priya was about to take permission to leave, the phone in the conference rang loudly. Priya, who sat nearest picked it up. Within few seconds, she stood up; the lines on her temple signified the seriousness of the situation. “Excuse me.” Priya rushed out of the room, without waiting for any response, perplexing every other person.

“I will check it.” Meera left behind her calling Priya by her name. While the later turned her ears deaf to everyone else, former was surprised and worried to find Ram Kapoor by her side. The client must not witness something unwanted, she thought.

~~

“Mr. Pilani…” Priya gestured a fake smile as broad as she can, “What a pleasant surprise!” she rolled her eyes to her PS and the other few employees who were trying to handle the awkward unwanted situation, “Don’t you have manner.. Sahab ka take care kaise karte hain ni jante?”

“Don’t try to act over smart Priya!” the man yelled out.

“Ms. Sharma or Ms. Priya or Ma’am which ever you are comfortable with.”  She smiled annoying the intruder.

“Whatever..” Pilani now looked at Meera, “ I have told you to stay away. I am the market leader and I will remain always. You dared to take permission from the authorities?” There was a sense of warning in his voice.

“I like it!” Priya smiled in return, “You know something what I am asked not to do, I do that with more power more confidence. No one can drag you down from the market, no one, if you really are the market lead, if not we will see.”

The man kept on mumbling bad words for Priya but didn’t have the courage to speak, the spark in Priya’s eyes were enough to blow away the gathered confidence. “I will see you..”

“So am I not here?” Priya smiled, while few of the staffs laughed, “Guys shut up.” She scolded. She took few steps to the raging man, “If you think making a scene infront of my clients will make me think twice about my decision, then two things you are wrong and you don’t know me and you really don’t know me. So leave before I lose my patience.” She warned this time.

When the man found himself amongst the security guards he chose to leave. While he walked out of the entrance, Priya asked everyone to leave for work. “Arun” she called her PS by his name, “I want to meet the securities who are in duty now. How dare they let him in when I have already instructed each and everyone to bar his entry to my office? I don’t want this nuisance again.”

“Isn’t it getting worse Priya, we should file a police complaint against him.” Meera suggested.

“Oh! Come ‘on he is bloody insecure about his business and we will see about the Police …” Priya stopped looking at Ram, “We will discuss this later Meera.” She focused completely on Ram now, “So Mr. Kapoor can we continue about your special clause. My cabin is that way.” She pointed.

“I need to make a call. I know the way to your cabin.” Ram paced up and walked out.

“Priya this is not good.” Meera warned.

“Why did you let him here?” She countered.

“Arey so what should I be doing then asking him with the same rude tone that he used just sometimes earlier?”

“Why the hell you are here? You know I am handling this…” Priya grinded her teeth. Before Meera could reply Priya’s phone buzzed in her pocket, “One minute.” Pulling out the phone she found that Ram is calling her. “Excuse me.” Priya walked away from Meera to the furthest corner, where an array of black chairs was placed for visitors. For the first time Meera was excused by Priya and that made things really alarming for the former.

“Why are you calling me?” Priya controlled her anger.

“What was that? Who was that fellow and how dare he to talk to you like that?” Ram sounded furious.

“Really Ram!” Priya smiled, “What made you so angry and concerned? Whatever he said to me was nothing, he only warned me not to cross his way. If this angers you so much then where were you when I was called a whore, whoring two men at the same time?” Priya immediately disconnected the call, she could feel the tears trickling her eyes. In twelve years she has somehow mastered herself in controlling emotions. Reason might be that she never wanted to make herself vulnerable again or she missed that shoulder, where she can lean and cry without worry.

Priya’s words pierced Ram’s ears like a bullet going straight into the heart rupturing every muscle, veins & arteries coming on its way. He tried not to remember that cursed day of his life, but it flashed in front of him. Clasping his hands against his eyes he cursed himself worst for running away that day. He could feel no explanation stands worthy. A single terrible mistake took away everything from Priya. She might have acquired some extraordinary career, pride, honour, dignity but that day she was torn apart by Rajat. Her self-respect, dignity was smashed under the feet of that self centric man. One wrong decision and it was over. “Why did it take so much to gather courage to face the world? Why did I run away when she needed me? Why didn’t I beat that Rajat to his death after all those? Why didn’t I try to find you out Priya? I never wanted to lose you neither want to lose you now. I want you back Priya, anything that will pacify you I will do, give me a chance.” In the fear of losing his love forever he muttered to himself. Ram sat there for next few minutes until his phone rang.

~~

“Hello” he said in an unclear voice.

“Are you okay Ram?” the voice from the other side asked him with concern.

“No I am not Vikram. I am not. She is back.” Ram said to his only soul friend, “Priya is The Priya Sharma now Vikram.”

“What? What did you say right now?”

“Yes. You heard it right.” Ram stood up and walked to the gate that leads all the cars to the premises. “Your assumptions were right and you know what she don’t know till that you are my Technical Head.”

“She hates us too Ram. Neha tried to contact her many times for 2 years till she changed her mobile number, I guess.” Vikram spoke softly, “Even she wrote to her Indore address about our marriage, but no reply came back ever.” He sighed, “We did some terrible mistake as young adults Ram. Our fear of getting thrown out, beaten up by the elders and taking decision on our own has almost cost her life and if we expect she will behave normal with us, that’s a blunder on our part.”

“But I need to clear all those things with her. I got chance even yesterday but she didn’t let me speak properly.” Ram felt helpless.

“So what do you expect?” Vikram retorted furiously, “One fine day we will throw her like garbage out of our lives for protecting our own insecurities and again another fine day we will go to her and beg mercy, give her explanations and she will forgive us! No Ram No.”

“But..” Ram was cut in by Vikram, “Let us give her time; I know this project is on. You will get to spend much time with her. So let her speak first not us and I don’t know how I will face her? I am already feeling chocked.”

“You don’t have to face her for two days neither I am going to tell her that you are my Tech Head.” Ram said running his left hand through his hairs, “We are going to outskirts of Delhi for Dristhi’s marriage and you will be having meetings with her Tech Head. I will mail you all the details”

“No.” Vikram expressed his disagreement, “Before she comes to know from anyone else, introduce me to her. Don’t do the same mistake again. That time you came late and she ruined herself. This time let her know that how much unpleasant may it be, you have to courage to face it and trust me Ram it is good for you.”

“But when it comes to her I don’t know why I start trembling. Everytime the sense of the distance that we have kills me. Vikram I want her back.” Ram declared.

“Win her back. Before winning her love, you have to win her trust back. Just do it brother not for anyone but for her. Just win her back. Take this as a challenge or anything just do it.” There was a silence from Vikram’s side, “Win her back.”

“I agree.” Ram sounded much relaxed to have her friend by him, “I will..I will win her back, I will.” 

He sighed I relief, “See you tonight brother and don’t inform Neha about Priya else she will get hyper and at this time this is not good for her or junior Shergil.”

They hung up the call. Ram turned to the office building that was guarding the arrogant sun’s demonic rays to touch his skin and burn them to ashes, the shade in which he stood resembles the darkness of the path in which he is about to start.

~~

“Don’t you think a lot of things are happening for the first time?” Meera stopped Priya as she walked back to her. Priya looked up with to find Meera’s unpleased expression thrown towards her. “Another first.” Meera stepped close to her and wiped out the tears she still had on the corner of her eyes. 

“What happened Priya? What is bothering you?” Meera asked caringly, “ Something in your life has trembled, I don’t know what it is exactly but whatever it is work on it. I can help you only if you care to share.”

“Nothing..” Priya nodded in response with a deep sigh, “Just remembered something from past.”

“An array of first time.” When Priya threw a stern look in response Meera continued, “ No I mean it. Priya Sharma is remembering the past.”

“Am I not a human? Don’t I have the emotions? Aren’t I allowed to remember?” She almost shouted.

“Control Priya; don’t forget you are the boss.” Meera warned her.

“I need space.” Priya walked towards her cabin fast. With Ram coming into the scene Meera witnessed a huge emotional shift in her, that made are suspect Ram to be the reason behind it, and she cemented to her assumption when she found Ram witnessing the whole conversation, standing shell shocked trying to hide himself from their eyes, but the glass wall in front made his attempt go in vain.

“Mr. Kapoor.” She walked towards him knowingly trying to intervene, “ We were looking for you only, come.” They started walking to the lift lobby when she decided to test her intuitions, “So if I am not wrong you and Priya know each other right?”

Ram froze at his place, “How did she knows?” he muttered to himself, “Sorry” he uttered to her.

“I thought you and Priya know eachother, I came to know Priya took you around Delhi, for tour yesterday. She doesn’t do these hospitality things at all. Actually she hates it. She confines herself into his office and study and family. Giving time to someone she doesn’t know is a first time for her, if you guys are unknown to eachother.” Meera looked up to record Ram’s facial expression. He was lost in his own world, stepping into the elevator; she still kept her gaze fixed on him. When the elevator was about to close, she pressed the open key and called Ram little louder. This time he looked up. “Come in, where you got lost?”

Hesitatingly cursing himself and trying to smile he stepped in. Meera on the other hand was pretty confident on her part, looked at Ram, who smiled and replied, “then I must say it is very sweet on Ms. Sharma’s part that she took the pain to show her hospitality to me.”

“Ya.” Meera smiled back, while Ram got himself busy with his phone. All through till Priya’s cabin Ram didn’t allow Meera to speak any further, by keeping himself busy in checking mails and in between calls.

~~

“Come in” Priya said. She stood facing the glass wall inscribed in her cabin, giving the view of the complete skyline.

“Kavi hasn’t turned up yet?” Meera questioned. Priya answered her back with a no without turning to her.

“I will get him here. Mr. Kapoor have a seat.” Meera said getting Priya aware of his presence. Now she turned to face the two persons.

“I will ask Arun to…” She walked to her desk and picked up the intercom. Before she can press the desired extension Meera stopped her and walked out of the room to see Kavi. Priya put down the receiver and occupied her seat.

“I am sorry.” The sudden reply from Priya surprised Ram. “I shouldn’t have spoken to you so rudely. I promise you our past will not come between us.”

“Vikram is my tech head.” Ram cuts in.

“Oh!” Priya’s reply was quite blunt. “Ok.. Ok..” she nodded her head in disbelief.

“They are married now. I mean Neha and Vikram. They are blessed with their second boy just few days back.” Ram said.

“Please don’t discuss this. Let me clear you something pretty quick.” Priya walked to the door to check if Meera or anyone is around or not, “No one knows who was that boy, no one knows the exact reason. So please don’t do anything that can expose us.” Priya continued, “I will try not being harsh with you, and please you try not to remind me of those days. Please” she pleaded.

Before Ram could answer there was a knock at the door. “Come In” she voiced walking back to her place. Meera came in with a young man in his late twenties. Introducing him as the Tech Head, Kavi she sat on the chair opposite to Priya. Avoiding her, Priya revolved around and left her seat and got herself busy in introducing Kavi to Ram and explaining the brilliance of the boy she has in her team. Meera sat there as spectator of the drama that Priya was trying to pull off with utmost brilliance.

~~

After the lunch when the three meet back at Priya’s cabin, Meera asked Ram to put his special clause out of the envelope.

“Nothing to worry. Just two, first if everything works, then deal will be signed at Mumbai and second our clients are very precious to us, so if you guys don’t have a problem I want you people to interact with the important ones if they come up with any major issues. At first hand I wanted you guys to have your office for our customers at Mumbai itself.” Ram was interrupted.

“I get your first point, but the second point is just ridiculous” Priya stared at Ram’s stern look, “Ok I am sorry. But how can customer know our location, Mumbai or Delhi it doesn’t matter, what matters the services and…”

“I know Miss Sharma, but you didn’t let me finish.” Ram raised his voice to make his point clear to her.

“Carry on Mr. Kapoor.” Meera said, throwing a bad look at Priya.

“I want you guys to carry on the process for a week only from Mumbai itself and we have setup, not as big as yours but for a week it can be managed and what we need is your Manpower. Look we are having a good will in the market. From three generations we are dealing with them and we want to make sure that person we are going to hand over the relationships sector, endangering our earned goodwill partially or completely, is capable of doing that or not?” Ram looked for an answer from the ladies, “ Am I asking for something irrational or ridiculous as you said Ms. Sharma.”

“No.” Priya said, “And the deal will be signed after that. Right?”

“Yes. The final agreement.”

“Meera.” Priya looked up to hear from her.

“And the costs who will bear it? We will be moving with a team of 20 at least the best amongst the best we have.” She asked.

“We. Your food lodging, transport everything will be looked after by us. You just need to pay the salaries to them as you do every month. Other than that every official expense will be bear by the Kapoor Industries.” Ram answered adding “Only seven days. If you don’t agree I fear I can’t move ahead.”

“We will let you know the details, if everything goes as we are or have planned.” Meera replied to Ram assuring of getting her team to Mumbai if the deal is on. “Please give your Tech head my number, ask him to call me tomorrow before leaving for here, because both of you will not be here when he arrives here.”

“Actually he is arriving today evening and I will show him this place. His hotel is just adjacent to the office. I don’t think he will face any problem. He has completed his studies from Delhi itself and did job here for 1 and half years before moving to Mumbai. So he will fine.” Ram replied.

“Okay Mr. Kapoor as you wish, but Meera can accompany him till 12 after that she will also leave for Dristhi’s marriage. So is it fine?” Priya asked.

“He is here to handle the technical part any decision that will be taken by me so if your tech head here I am fine with it.”

Priya nodded back to him, “Meet you later. I have to leave, have some prior engagements.” With a warm gesture Priya excused herself, Meera asked Ram to come along with her. But he expressed his willingness to roam around Delhi, which he has already discussed with his father. As requested Meera took him to Jayesh’s chamber, where he asked for permission from Amarnath Kapoor for leave. There came no objection as Priya was bit fast than him to inform the elders about the fruitful closing of the day.

~~

“May I know where are you heading to?” Ram asked as Priya picked up the phone on the other side.

“No.” the reply was too sharp to handle, but Ram maintained his calm, “You can’t. It is none of your business. I promised you not to be harsh inside the office. The more you invade into my private space I will tear you apart. So brace yourself and mind your own business.”

“I am minding my own business.” Ram replied with a laugh, “You are my damn business and I will keep on trying until and unless I win back your trust. I will not ask you to forgive me, I will not ask you to forget. Forgiveness and Forgetting has no meaning to the actions made in past. I am your culprit and I do accept every punishment that you will give me. I am ready for the worst. But I will win your trust back, I will win you back.”

“In your dreams.” Rudely she retorted.

“In reality. At any cost, with any punishment you give to me. Just punish me Priya. But stop punishing yourself. Stop killing yourself. Kill me Punish me. I am okay with it, but stop it I can’t see you like this.” Begged Ram from other side.

“It is late Ram. Priya, whom you loved, who loved you is dead. This Priya Sharma only knows to win. Only knows to breath, challenge, race, speed. This Priya has no heart. I can crush anyone for my benefit. Anyone just anyone.” The calmness in her voice echoed louder than her cries inside Ram’s heart.

“Don’t do this Priya. Do it with me but not yourself.” Ram was late, the line went dead, much before he finished, he only realized the same late.

Inside the car sitting on the back seat, she instructed her driver to drive to the coffee shop, where she wants to spend some lone time. As the car zoomed through the busy roads of Delhi, she looked outside and whispered, “Punishing you hurts me more; than when I punish myself. It was, is and will never be a good option.” Closing her eyes she sighed deep trying to concentrate on the darkness that evolved in front of her.

~~

Falling Apart || Part 8

Falling Apart : Part 8

Priya lied lazily on her back, appreciating her self control. Tapping her shoulder she congratulated herself to show the utmost control over her emotions seeing Ram Kapoor after a long time. There was much that he needs to know he needs to hear. But in all these twelve years she tamed her heart in such a way that nothing other than four people in her life affects her. She turned and resting her head on her palm, with the elbow to support she smiled thinking about Ram. Eventually she laughed.

“He is really Big now. As of Name , fame and size. I must ask him someday how he managed to destroy his killing looks from the past.” She giggled to herself, “But you look cuter now Mr. Ram Kapoor.”

“What are you thinking about Priya!” She suddenly scolded herself. “I have nothing to do with his cuteness or nothing. He is here to do business and I am here to make money that’s it.”

Priya stood up to leave for the changing room to select a suitable pair of ethnic wear for her from the wardrobe. She quickly grabbed one from it, even not looking at it for once and came back to the room to attend the call on her mobile. She hurried because, her device allowed only four persons to reach her when it is Do not DIstrub mode. It was Jayesh who called her up.

“Yes Uncle” she responded while taking out the Salwar Suit from the hanger.

“Priya how rude and unjust we are see.” Jayesh said.

“What happened uncle? Is there any problem?” Priya dropped the Suit on her bed worryingly.

“Yes there is a big problem. See Priya we the businessmen sometime forget about our ages and try to blame every other people for what they do?”  Jayesh continued.

“I cant understand what you are saying.” Confusingly Priya answered.

“Ram, Priya, Ram. I am talking about him. We never thought that how long he can manage to laugh and crack foolish jokes with old people like us. Even he is new to this place too and with no friends or any relatives around him will feel bored isn’t it?” Jayesh laughed now.

“I am still not getting it uncle.” Priya sounded more confused.

“Priya.. Sometimes I just wonder do you remember anything other than numbers? Arey  it is natural for him to get bored amongst us. We are almost double or 30 plus than his age. What I mean to say if there is someone who can accompany him at Delhi are you.” Jayesh could hardly complete from the other side Priya almost shouted, “WHAT!!”

“Why is there any problem?”

“No uncle I mean to say we are going to do business with them and …” Priya was disallowed to speak further.

“Priya keep this business word locked inside your closet for God’s sake. I have not trained you to discard your personal life and forgot to live neither do Meera, I will ask her today if she has trained you in this way.”  Now Jayesh sounded pretty offended, “And this is no request no order, but this is an instruction get ready and come here, pick Ram and stroll around and then come to the Sangeet venue. Is that clear?” Jayesh said like a strict boss.

“Yes Uncle I will be there in an hour, and before you say why an hour when it takes 20 mins drive from my home to yours. Let me clarify I will take shower get ready and then will come.”She said.

“Good.” Jayesh disconnected the call and walked upstairs.

~~

“What the hell.” Priya threw the mobile on the bed in anger, “Now I have to be his guide? And what does that mean he was never been to Delhi, New here. Doesn’t he spend 3 years of his life here and what no relatives where the hell his …” Priya stopped as that night again flashed inside her head. “Stop it!” Priya scolded herself, “Dare to think about it. So what I know him, so what if … I loved him. Right now he is my client, my business and my profit.” Priya collected the Salwar suit and walked to the changing room.

~~

“Ram…” Jayesh called him by his name after knocking at the door, where he was relaxing.

“Please uncle come in.” He almost jumped out of his thoughts.  

“Look son, I have already spoken to Amarnath, he is in favour of it and he has also corrected his mistake,, it is natural for you to feel awkward, anyone will feel awkward. Even if I was at your place I would have reacted the same.” Jayesh said.

“Uncle about what?” Ram looked surprise.

“How long can you manage with people who are not of your age? I know Ram it is bit boring. So I have a solution for it.” Jayesh continued disallowing Ram to speak , “Priya and you are of same age group I guess and who else than her can give you company better.” That name gave him almost the shock of his life again and company what the man opposite to him is talking about, he is completely clueless about. “ Don’t worry I have spoken to her and she is coming in an hour, what you need to do is to change and get ready, have a stroll around, see our city, Priya knows every Gali mohalla of this city and trust me she is a great guide and beautiful person. You will cherish her company.” Jayesh could hardly finish, when Amarnath spoke from the door.

“Ram now you should not have any problem with it. Do you?” His father asked.

“No Bauji I don’t have any problem. But if Ms Sharma is comfortable?” Ram asked hesitatingly.

“Don’t worry about her. She is perfectly fine with it.” Jayesh said.

Amarnath Kapoor walked upto his son, putting his hands on his shoulder he looked to his son, “Look beta I am sorry to be so rude with you actually what Jayesh noticed I never did neither do your mother. You also need company, had Vikram be here you would look cheerful. Thanks to jayesh and Priya that they agreed, otherwise you would feel more irritated and which in whole was not good.”

“Bauji you don’t need to say sorry. Did I say when…” Ram paused but smiled later.

“Okay then young man get ready Priya is very punctual, for her one hour means one hour.” Jayesh said, “Amarnath lets go and have some tea and around 8 we will leave for Dristhi’s Sangeet”

“Let’s club in with Sudheer and Shipra..” Amarnath said while leaving the room, “Priya will drop back Ram isn’t it? Or we will come back and Priya will drive back Sudheer and Shipra, which ever is convenient, what say?”

“Good idea. Let me call Sudheer and you inform the same to bhabhi ji. This was the last thing that Ram could hear from Jayesh as he left the room behind his father.

~~

“Maa..” Priya called her mother as she rushed downstairs, “Where are my car keys?”

“Nahi milegi.” Shipra snapped out.

“Okay then I am telling Jayesh Uncle that I am not coming.” Priya unlocked the screen of her phone to call. Shipra stopped her and asked about her plans to leave so early. She informed her about the plan that Jayesh planned and she is obeying him only.

“Okay.” There is a witty smile on Shipra’s face.

“No maa, not again and this time never thought about all those non sense. Mr Ram Kapoor is my client my business and where you are trying to figure me out with him cut the crap and can I leave now?” Priya jerked her mother out from the thoughts.

“Haan..” Shipra looked smiling at her daughter.

“kya mein jaa sakti hoon?” Priya stretched out her words irritatingly, with a nod from her mother, she asked to inform her father and they will directly meet at the scheduled place.

~~

Igniting the car she moved through the Delhi traffic, “So I have to figure it out whose plan is this actually? Had Ram asked for all these from Jayesh Uncle. Did he expected me to be here or he had all the information from the very beginning?” Priya pondered herself with all this interrogation, knowing that she is barred from asking, that may go rude with the prospective client. Priya and Jayesh’s house were located within 2 kms from either’s place. It took around 20 minutes to reach her destination. The guard came running in to open the door for Priya. She in denial asked him to leave. With a deep sigh she pushed open the car door, before entering the house she closed her eyes and tried to tame her brain and heart in the same tune again. “You can do it Priya!” She patted herself and walked straight in.

Jayesh and Amarnath were sitting on the living room discussing business she guessed.

“Hello Uncle!” She greeted and took a seat on the couch opposite to the elderly men.

“See Amarnath, this is my Priya, 1 hour means 1 hour only and she is here.” Jayesh appreciated Priya for her punctuality, “ And you will see many more of it. She is the reason the company that I started with 1000 employees is the home for almost 5000, right Priya ..” Jayesh paused for Priya’s nod, “Almost 5000 employees. I am so proud of her.”

“Please uncle stop embarrassing me.” Priya added, “ What I learnt I learnt from you only.”

“Beta learning and developing has lots different amongst you know. You developed with your learning. That needs to be appreciated.” Amarnath added. The conversation halted as Ram came to the living space.

“Hello Ms. Sharma.” He greeted, “Sorry for the inconvenience.”

“Priya. Please call me Priya, Mr. Kapoor.” She stood up.

“Then call me Ram.” He waited for a while, “Priya.”  In response she smiled as a gesture of acceptance.

“Okay then get going you two and Priya take good care of him, and young man go have a look around our city, you will love it. Kyun Priya”  Jayesh winked.

“Sure.. Mr. Kapoor  Muskuraiye, App Delhi mein,  Bye Uncle.” She greeted Amarnath and Jayesh and walked towards her car with Ram. Ram, who walked behind her noticed every little step she took towards her car. With the beep the car got unlocked and Ram stood little surprised.

“Kya hua?” She asked, “Thinking about my mom’s worry? Don’t worry Mr. Kapoor people say I drive good. App ko kuch hone nahi dungi.  Sit.” She slipped into the driver’s seat.

~~

When the car was moving through the sloth traffic of Delhi Ram broke the silence, “What the hell is this?”

“What?”Priya snapped out looking around for anything wrong has been noticed by him , not being confirmed she asked , “ is there a problem?”

“ I mean...” Ram paused, “can you please stop this bloody damn car. I need to talk.”

“There is nothing to talk Ram. Don’t over react.”Priya looked straight to the traffic, “What you are seeing is the truth. The truth that was written way back, by ..” She paused, “and don’t worry no one is going to know what I and you shared once upon a time. I have left it and moved in my life and i expect so do you.”

“Do you really expect that of me priya?” Ram snapped out.

“Oh! What should I expect then even better than that?” she sounded very cold and flat.

“Doesn’t it matter to you that I am in front of you after damn 12 years?” Ram asked curiously, waiting for her to answer.

“No.” She hurt him this time, “ I don’t allow me myself to have any kind of emotions for any people. 

Do you ever saw a dead man to have emotions? I am breathing, that is the only difference, I have earned much luxuries, My life is settled up , stable, that all I need. There is no time for any kind of stupidity in my life. I left it there where and when we parted.”

“I can explain everything priya. Neither you gave me chance that time nor you are in mood to listen it now.” Ram looked at Priya, who was unmoved., “Priya I am talking to you.”

In minutes, Priya drove into a Starbucks Coffee Shop, “Come I need to clear something to you. I Guess you would not mind to have a cup of coffee?” Priya said getting out of the car. Ram obeyed her, with the hope that he might get a chance to explain every odds that happened and parted them 12 years ago. They walked inside, and as Priya was regular there the manager greeted her and lead to her favourite table. “What should I get for your Ma’am and Sir?” He asked politely.

“For now a glass of water please. We are placing order in minutes.” Priya said taking her seat.

“Look Ram” Priya Started, “I don’t know if you have any update about me or not. Guessing that you have not any update about me, though the google pages have some information about me, I have come a long way and have discarded every past from my memory. I don’t remember anything, neither what we had or what tore us apart. Neither I need any explanation from you, nor i will allow you to waste my time with such nonsense.”

“You have changed a lot Priya. You were not like this earlier.” Ram said sitting there shell shocked.

“badal toh tum bhi gaye ho Ram, Kafi Phail chuke ho.”Priya smiled.

Ram smiled casually, “But something about you has not changed.” Priya looked at him for an answer, he added, “ Your smile and your eyes. You might have turned yourself into a ruthless demon but Ms. Sharma your eyes are saying another story.”

“Accha  so what it is exactly?”

“That you are happy to see me here.”

“Don’t keep all this crap inside your head, it hurts. When your expectations are rolled out to be wrong it hurts. It really hurts.” Priya leaned back to her chair, “Look Ram I don’t want our past to come across the professional relationship that we might share amongst. It’s important for me . What you are seeing today with me, is pretty hard earned by me and I don’t want to spoil it because of something stupid happened in past between us.”

“Which one you are calling stupid?” Ram said sharply.

“The whole you and me matter, out God damn relationship.”

“You have turned yourself...” Ram was in anger; his voice was louder than earlier. He controlled himself and looked other side trying to ignore Priya, but how could he; the woman he still loves madly is in front of him after 12 years and that also in the most unexpected manner.

“Bitch.” Priya’s word was enough to piss off Ram. He controlled his anger after hearing it.

“Yes that is. Happy?” Ram looked irritated, “What happened to you? Why you have turned yourself into such emotionless creature Priya?”

“Weren’t it enough to turn me into a dead Ram?” Priya looked at him, “ When your emotions are used and thrashed out what you expect?”

“Priya.. Priya give me a chance to explain I have not used your emotions.” Ram defended.

“There is no time for the non sense Ram. I didn’t even remember what happened why it happened and what we had and don’t worry no one from my family know about you. I never told them the name. Not even Jayesh uncle.”

Ram opened his mouth to speak, Priya stopped him , “Please Ram don’t. Don’t take it out of the grave. I want a healthy professional relation with you , if this deal works out that’s it.”

“Okay when you are adamant and will not listen to me at any cost. I am not going to force you. But ....” Ram stopped as his phone buzzed. “Ya!” He answered, “I am in a meeting will talk to you later.”

“Karlo baat..” Priya looked at Ram, who just disconnected the call, “Don’t you miss her?”

“How do the hell you that it is call from a lady?” Ram looked suspiciously at her.

“Ram.. when a man lies of being in a meeting , when he is not in general case either he is lying to his wife or girlfriend, and as per my knowledge you are still bachelor so I it’s your girlfriend.”  Priya stirred her coffee.

“No one special.” Ram digged into his chicken sandwich. The phone rang again.

“Take it! You don’t need to be so formal with me Ram. Neither is we a couple nor friends.” She sipped her coffee. She kept on hurting Ram with her one after another harsh words but he kept his cool, wishing to God to give him a chance to explain Priya everything. Might be that is her way to make him repent for the mistake he never wanted to commit.

“Ya. Is it urgent?” Ram spoke taking the call, while he kept his eyes fixed on Priya. “I told you I will be out of Mumbai and now I don’t know when I will be back, I have an important work to do and what the hell is leading  you to India?” Ram excused himself from Priya. As he stood at a corner, he smiled looking at disturbed Priya. He smiled knowing that she still have feelings for him, might not that what he feels for her but she do have feelings for him. He smiled cunningly to execute his fake call plan properly without even letting Priya know. He faked to speak for another 1 or 2 minutes and headed back to Priya.

“So done!” Priya asked looking up from the magazine she held on her hand.

“Cars?” Ram looked surprised, “From when did you get interested in all these?”

“Why? Is it a crime or only men can show interest over it!”

“No I mean, you were not like this..” Ram sipped his coffee which has almost given up most of its heat to the atmosphere.

“You have just met me Ram.” Priya smirked, “there is lot to know about me. Much is left to know. I might be surprising you most of the time then.”

“Okay? Can I ask you one thing?” Ram looked up, while Priya answered.

“Boy Friend?” She almost laughed, “I don’t believe this. Priya Sharma has no time for all these non sense, I am free today for Dristhi’s Sangeet and for next two days after tomorrow for her Marriage that is happening at their farm house, else I keep myself busy from 6 to 12 whether it is at office or home. You don’t know this Priya, Ram, and whom you know has died much earlier. So keep your little nosy out of my business. Ask it to mind it’s own.”

“It is. When you are my business.” His reply made Priya raise her eyebrows, “Well I am here to do business isn’t it Ms Sharma and I was informed that you handle the complete business since Jayesh Uncle had Bypass Surgery? If it is true, then you are definitely my business, I am going to invest money on you and you are going to make money out of it.”

“Your father’s money!” She couldn’t complete.

“Next time before you speak, make sure that you are confident about your research! This project is my investment not my father’s and what do you think I was doing at US all these days? Partying and flirting?” He narrowed his eyes to her. “You know what I let out to media about me nothing more than that. We are Kapoors Priya, we don’t make our lives public and I guess you are more protective about you and your family than us.” Now he leaned back for a reply from her.

“Sorry to misjudge you. Mr. Kapoor.” She apologised.

“Good for you.” Ram thought he has won some credibility. But he was proved wrong by Priya’s reply. Sharply she said that she is not afraid to say sorry if she commits, she is not coward. Again she poked him for what she declared not to remember from past. But she remembers everything. “We must leave, I drove to the opposite side and this is the peak hour, there will be much traffic.” They finished the rest of the snacks and coffee in silence which almost killed Ram a thousand deaths.

~~

The time was almost 8 when Priya and Ram reached the place, Dristhi’s father is associated with Jayesh from a long time, even when Priya didn’t entered the business. Dristhi’s mother hugged Priya and looked at the unknown face there, Ram’s”

“Who is this handsome fellow? Priya” she asked, mocking her, “So at last you agreed to join the league.”

“Come on Aunty he is also your guest and his father and Jayesh uncle are friends. App bhi naa..” Priya smiled, “He is Ram Kapoor, Amarnath Kapoor’s Son.”

“Oh my God!” Dristhi’s father exclaimed, “I am seeing you after long seven years right! You have changed a lot and where is Amarnath?” he welcomed Ram.

“Bauji and Maa are on the way with hers” Ram pointed out at Priya.

Priya excused herself and walked to the bride. Ram followed her every where almost but till the Kapoors and the Sharmas along with Jayesh came there. Ram has to be with his father, formally for the first time he is getting introduced to the business world, where his father has cemented his feet firm and now it’s his turn to follow the legacy. Though he wanted to run to Priya who was enjoying the sangeet function happily but his profession and commitments to his father stopped him to do so. He loves her but he respects his father too.

~~

Ram meet Priya straight at the parking, after the dinner. She was there with her family. Krishna Kapoor was also there. Shipra and she were making plans to spend the next day , when the men and the their kids will be busy with the business for which they are here. Priya was a spectator only. She found Ram along with other three men walking towards them.

“maa.. papa aa gaye.” Priya said standing straight from the dashboard of the car.

“So what’s cooking behind us ladies?” Amarnath Kapoor said.

“Nothing I and Shipra are planning for tomorrow. App log toh busy honge office mein  we must engage us in something. I was thinking I will do some shopping.”

“Not again mom. Don’t we have shops and malls at Mumbai?” Ram looked not happy with his mother’s decision.

“Even Priya don’t like shopping.” Shipra added, “You know Mrs. Kapoor when she does shopping? when she really needs something and how she does, only about 10 mins she needs for shopping,  gayi, jo cheese chahiye uthaya and if she needs any outfit, the first thing her eyes catches, she grabs it and walks to the billing section, that’s why I never go with her for shopping” Shipra complained and teased her daughter at a time.

Priya didn’t replied on contrast she replied, “and can we leave maa now, I have a long day to finish and I have to start next day early.”

“I think we should leave.” Jayesh suggested, “and Ram come with us now and Priya you will drive back home.”

“Yes Uncle.. only if maa remains quiet.” Priya said, “ Good night Aunty, Good night Uncle” she greeted the elders, she almost ignored Ram , she corrected the same to avoid awkwardness, she turned and extended her hand to Ram, “It was nice meeting you Mr. Kapoor, I look forward for the association.” Ram took gripped her hand, in a firm shake and smiled, “Same here Ms. Sharma.”

Parting Priya and Ram walked towards the respective cars, which zoomed into the traffic on the same direction.

~~

It was the normal time at night for Priya when she climbed up on her bed for sleep. She always used to check two things properly before going to sleep, one her official mobile that remains switched off and the personal mobile which always remain switched on, except when she is on flights. Just after checking when she turned off the lights of the room, the second phone buzzed. Fewest of the few people knew about the number and those who knew, they are on her contact list but this one, which was calling in the odd hours was unknown to her.  There might be any emergency for any one of her close one. She picked up the call and shocked to find Ram on the other side.

“Who the hell on the earth gave you my number, specially this one?” She frowned.

“Relax, is there any problem if I call you in this number?” Ram sounded calm on the other side.

Priya controlled her anger, and being subtle she asked again, “From whom did you get this number? Please tell? Is that Maa?”

“No, Jayesh Uncle gave it to me this evening, I didn’t tell you.” Ram told the truth adding , “ and now a days every person is used to two numbers I even have two. This is my personal number, which very few people know.”

“Same her Ram, I don’t give everyone my this number”

“Oh! So I am an everyone who was supposed to be neglected right?”

“Leave it! Tell me is there any urgency, that you called at this wee hours, what’s the matter?” She asked.

“Yes.”

“And that is?”

“I can’t sleep.” Ram’s answered frowned Priya even more.

“WHAT!” she shouted almost, “Ram are you mad you can’t sleep and for that what i can do? For heaven’s sake Ram let me sleep, I have a long day tomorrow.”

“The reason is you Priya, I can’t stop thinking about you.” Ram sealed Priya’s mouth for a moment. She felt what she used to feel for him way back. She could hear her heart beating against the rib cage. It pondered against it. Now she sat straight with her back resting on the head rest of the bed. Both them could hear their breathes that was the only sound that prevailed that time.

“Ram” she said with a deep sigh, “I am no one to think for or about. I am not that Priya you lo...” She stopped abruptly there, “You know. I am someone else. Please don’t think about me or for me, I was happy the way I was , I am happier the way I am and I will always be happiest the way I will shape up myself and my life.” She broke Ram’s heart into million pieces with her last words, “ And there is no place for either you or anyone else in this world. I am happy because I am accomplished alone and whom I need in my life are standing head strong with me for the last 12 years. At this stage and age I don’t need anyone and please don’t indulge your heart to the presence of mine, thinking that I was the same as you left forever in grave twelve years ago.”

“Priya give me a chance to speak, that day not only you, I was also in pain.” Ram pleaded.

“I know that’s why I gave you time, Ram that day what Rajat did to me with me, I can forgive him for his sins, because for him I was the one who double crossed him I was the one to be called faulty but what you did Ram, I trusted you the most, I at last thought to have someone brave my side, but how would I know only to dig the grave for me?”

“Priya once. Give me a single chance.” Ram again pleaded.

“For what Ram? You know something, Rajat is someone who I thank every day, you know why? He is the reason of my rise, this city snatched everything from me, every happiness. I tendered everything back from it with interest. But what you did with me, is nothing less than a murder Ram.” She gritted her teeth in anger, “And I will never allow you to say a single word in your defence to make me weak again, to give you another chance to play with me. Do you get that!”

“Okay priya, I will not ask for chance again. I will wait for the day when you will give me that chance of your own. I will wait for you.” Ram said.

“In your dreams.” Priya irked him, “Please Ram this conversation is going no where and I don’t know what made me speak to you so long?” “and” she continued, “No one speaks about that day with me Ram, no one. So dare you speak about it again.” Priya could feels her tears trickling her eyes for an escapade. She denied breaking.

“I already told you Priya I will not bas ek baat ki dukh reh gayi.” Ram smiled.

“What?”

“That time you were in denial that you loved me and this time too.” He said.

“Who said you that?” She replied, “Yes I was in denial that time but not this time, yes I do loved you, I do love you. But that time I loved you more than anything. And now I love to hate you more than anything. Yes I love to hate you Mr Ram Kapoor.”

“Chalo bad dua mein hi sahi , You at least remember me.” He added, “I will wait for you.”

“Whatever” Priya showed her arrogance, “And now when you have got your answer can I sleep please.”

“Oh Yes.” Ram couldn’t complete Priya disconnected the call from the other end, and for the first time she switched off her personal number. Covering her with the duvet she closed her eyes tight. For about half an hour she turned herself from that side to this, but her sleep hormones denied to help her to fall asleep, restless she sat up, the medicines that were prescribed by her doctor to her mother is there with her too, unknown to the patient herself. She pulled the drawer of the side table open, stripping out a table of 0.1 mg power she broke it into almost two equal parts, first she thought to gulp a part and keep the other back into the drawer, then she dropped the idea, she gulped the tablet and slid inside the duvet. It helped her then, covering up her anxiety at last she could sleep.

On the other side, Ram stood on the terrace puffing off his cigarette she looked to the picture kept safe in his wallet. Caressing it he smiled. “I will wait for you Priya. This is going to be crazy, making  a girl fall for you who don’t even know you is tough, but making a lady fall for you , who hates you more than she loves you is adventurous. This is going to be crazy.” He smiled as he puffed off the cigarette again.

~~

“Priya.. Priya.. Priya..” She woke up with her name continuously taken by her mother, who was pushing her hard and trying to get her out of the sleep.  “Priya.. Priya wake up beta..” Shipra pushed her again, this time little harder.

“Ouch Maa.” She sat up rubbing her eyes, “Good morning” she said in a heavy voice, “What’s the time?”

“7:30”

“What!!!! I am late.” Priya pushed away the duvet and ran towards the washroom.

“What made her sleep so late Sudheer?” Shipra asked.

“Let her come we will figure this out.” Sudheer walked out of the room asking Shipra to stay back. Shipra sat on one of the bean bags kept on the room, matched with the contrast of the room. She flipped through the magazines kept there on the tea table. Priya was still in the washroom , when Sudheer again came there and asked for Priya’s phone.

“It must be here only, she went to wash room bare handed.” Shipra walked to the bed and checked where priya generally keeps her phones. She found both of them. Showing it to Sudheer she said that both of them are switched off.

“Meera” Address Sudheer, “Both the phones are switched off. I will ask her to call you as soon as she comes out. Shipra please ask her to call Meera immediately. “ Sudheer walked away disconnecting the call.

The arrays of unorganized incidents made Shipra thoughtful. Her daughter has followed a strict organized chart for controlling her life, she has certain sets of rule, most of which has been broken today, that was a serious issue, she thought. Priya walked out of the changing room in her business attire. “Maa please I will skip breakfast today, else I will be late.”

She picked up the phones and switched both of them on. “Shit! Meera called so many times i think something serious issue is there.”

“Yes she called your father and asked you to call immediately.” Shipra passed on the information.

Priya called Meera and wished her Good Morning.

“Maya and Rajesh are here Priya and you are late and this is for the first time you know that. But Why were you phone were not reachable?” Meera, the CFO of the company asked her.

“Not, Not reachable, I switched them off. And before you ask why and all that, I am heading to office and I can reach before the Kapoors will reach there even Jayesh Uncle and let me inform you Jayesh Uncle will come with the Kapoors. Ok.” She disconnected the call and had almost bided her mom bye , she was stopped by her.

“Priya I know you are in hurry but tell me few things which is bothering me beta badly. “ Shipra pulled Priya to the undone bed and made her sit.

“This is the first time I have to wake you up. What happened to you? You never slept so deep. Unmoved.” Shipra asked, “and why your phones were switched off? Tell me?”

Looking at her worried mother she decided to tell her the truth with little modifications, “ Maa, last night I was not able to sleep. So..”

“What so..” Impatiently Shipra asked.

“Wo, I have your sleeping pills and...gussa maat hona. I just took one from it.” Priya tried to defend herself.

“What! You have them, where are those? Where are those?” Shipra stood up and searched for those medicines, she opened the bed side drawer after searching them on bed and her dressing table. Shipra looked very angry when she found five strips in the drawer, “Priya if I want I can tell this to Jayesh Ji and your papa, but I trust you, I am not going to tell this to anyone but dare you do this again. I am not asking for the prescription of mine that you have with you, only because I trust you and I am trusting you that this will never be repeated again.”

Shipra is a lucky go happy woman, who is very friendly with her daughter, she never gets annoyed so easily. She has a natural instinct of taking things lightly. But it is really alarming when something annoys her and Priya annoyed her with what she did. So she choose to say sorry to her mother with a hug.

“I will never do that again. Promise.” Priya hugged her mother tight, “Next time if I feel insomniac I will chose to climb between you and papa and sleep there as I used to do as a kid .”

“chalega” Shipra kissed her daughter’s head.

“Now may I leave.” Priya asked.

“Yes. But do have some fruits in breakfast at least.” Shipra advised as Priya stood up to leave.

“Maa Today I am taking kaka with me, today I don’t feel like driving. So I will have some fruit from the dine okay.” She smiled and ran downstairs as fast as she can. Shipra followed her from the stairs she saw her picking up some fruits before calling her long time chauffeur, whom she calls kaka. Priya wanted to hide her anxiety very cleverly but a mother’s eyes can’t be escaped.

She felt the storm budding up inside her daughter, what she doesn’t knew is the reason, which definitely has to be found out she said to herself.

I thought to introduce Meera in this update but it is already much long and I was busy in sketching few characters for the next one, which I will be posting soon in my blog and it has some twist. A sweet twist and I think You will love the story too as I liked theirs. Actually I love their story, It is like a dream. It is a real life story on which I wanted to work since a long time, but they never allowed me, and now almost after a try of 3 years they agreed to give me permission to work on it with giving it some fictional touch and not using their names or their kids name. So I thought to work on it with my favorite Raya.