Chapter 40: A death and An old Pal.

Chapter 40: A death and An old Pal.

First thing she noticed about the girl, presumed to be Sherstha, is her hands; that are locked around her husband's neck and worse was about it was Ram, who held her back with same proximity. There is something that seems pretty uncanny about them. Her blood boiled with rage but she decided to act maturely. Noticed by no one Priya walked slowly towards the pair and the other lady. Before she could even utter a word the three people started marching to the door in front which will lead them inside the building from the waiting area. Priya thought to voice up taking Ram's name but she felt a sheer dryness. Just when she started thinking maturely her love started pulling down the mask and putting back the raging ego into her nerves.

“Priya.” A female voice stopped her brain. She shot up and found a lady smiling at her. Priya thought, does she know the lady. May be; yes. Trying hard to remember she closed her eyes once and opened next moment and a name escaped her parted lips, “Reshma?” she asked her to confirm.

“Hmm.” Reshma stood folding her hands near her belly with a sigh. “Ram was concerned about it. He was so eager to tell you everything that he and Shrestha share. But before that could happen this happened.” She looked down to the shining floor where her reflection could be seen. She looked drained emotionally. But as a professional expert she knew how to cover it.

“Is everything alright?” Priya asked breaking her trance.

“Yes.” Reshma changed the answer next moment. “No. May be the worst is coming.” She let out a sigh again. “Come lets sit and talk.” Reshma guided Priya to the cafeteria of the hospital.

“Who is here? Is it related to Shrestha?” Priya asked while walking with her.

“It's related to Ram and a kid.” Reshma learned she has confused Priya. “Let's sit and talk.”

“Can you tell me what has happened?”

“Yes. I can. But we need to settle down first.” Reshma said very politely. Which when rejected by Priya, the former knew the reason behind it. “Okay.” She took a deep breath. “Did Ram share anything about the good work he is doing? Anything about ...” Reshma stopped under Priya's voice that declared she already lost every interest and her only concern was Ram and Shrestha. “Priya, listen to me carefully Ram loves you only.”

“I am not here to get your certificate that my husband loves me or that bitch.” Priya said loud and clear to attract every pair of eyes in the cafe including the doctor's who were seated one floor up at the Doctor’s dining but in the same place.

“Priya calm down.” Reshma said but she missed one of the Doctors started approaching them. “It's about a boy and he is dying. He has only few hours left in ..” Reshma stopped and looked at the doctor who hugged Priya tight crushing her ribs at the same time. Reshma was taken aback.

Priya squinted towards him. He shot a wide grin to her under her anger. “Still the same.”

“Vehan?” Priya asked.

“Correct. But what's my first and only love is doing here .. and...” Vehan looked at her from head to toe and looked terribly disappointed. “You got married?”

“Vehan can we meet sometime else?” Priya missed his attire. He works there and a Doctor. She looked back to Reshma.

“But Priya I can help you in anything. I am a doctor working here.” Vehan just finished and Priya clutched his hand and pulled him out of the cafe leaving Reshma behind. “What are you doing Priya?”

“Vehan if you were really my friend from past this is the moment to help me.” Priya said. “I want to know why my husband is here! Ram Kapoor.” She stopped at the lobby.

“Who doesn't know about him Priya.” Vehan had slight smile pasted on his face which indicted sorrow more than delight. Priya looked with millionth questions to him. “Priya you are married to a person who is just not a person. They say people see God in us, the doctors. I say if really there is any God, then it is him.”

“What do you mean?” Priya asked.

“It is us who failed to live up to his expectations.” Vehan looked with guilty in his eyes. “But sometimes things go otherwise. Chotu is dying.”

“Chotu?”

“A boy from his Trust.” Vehan continued. “The best I knew he is the only child who was born at that place to a lady who was rescued along with others. But his mother had developed AIDS when he was in the womb and he is not spared from it and he has leukaemia too. He is just slipping out of our hands.”

“And how you know so many things about him?” Priya inquired.

“If you see carefully I am the HOD of the oncology department.” Vehan pointed to the display board. Priya averted her eyes to confirm.

“Can you...” Priya looked down as Vehan's phone vibrated and he shoved his hand in pant's pocket. She heard Vehan to say yes only. “Please follow me.” He strode towards the huge glass door which was left open with two securities guarding it. They stopped Priya. But on Vehan's instructions they let her go. The doctor's elevator stopped. With its door parting sideways Priya's eyes fell on Ram who sat hunched on the ground. She knew Ram was crying. Next her eyes fell on Shrestha who called Ram by his name on Vehan's first visual.

“Doc..” Ram almost jumped from his place to Vehan grabbing his shirt. The guards came to rescue but the latter stopped them.

“Mr. Kapoor I pronounced this future very early. Sometimes we stand helpless in front of the ultimate decision that has already been taken.” Vehan felt slowly Ram's grip loosened and he started crying like a baby. His legs fumbled and he fell on the ground before Vehan could hold him.

“RAM!!” both the ladies called his name in unison. Vehan side walked into the ICU to attend the call.

Through his blurred vision he saw Priya in front. Without thinking even once he grabbed her in a flash of second. Clinging to her he started sobbing. Within seconds his sobs got louder. Shrestha took two steps back and her back rested against the wall. She felt Reshma's hand on shoulder. Showing her card Reshma equipped in required uniform walked inside the ICU.

“Priya.. I can't let him go. Save him please..save him. I beg to you Priya save him. I will remain indebted to you ever.” In syllables Ram spoke, his tears tickled down his hot cheek and fell on Priya's pleated saree. “I can't let him go.” He cried inconsolably. Priya made her grip tighter against his fragile body that shuddered in intervals. She sat on the floor with Ram. Priya had no words to comfort him. A death of a boy who just came to this world; how she can justify it using words. Tears tickle down her eyes.

“Ram. Please stop crying.” Priya said holding his face between her hands.

“Why chotu? They can take me. I have only given pain to everyone. You, Bauji, Maa, Rishab, Riyah, Darling, Shrestha every one who cared for me. I am the most selfish person alive. Why my chotu, why not me?” Ram kept on knocking his head on the floor. Priya's tried went in vain.

“Ram you have not given pain to anyone. You can't.” Priya said coming closer to him. “Calm down. Please. He needs you. Chotu needs you.”

For the first time Ram looked straight. “Yes. He needs you Ram.” Priya said affirm.

He said nothing but hugged back Priya. While comforting Ram in her arms she gestured the guards to help her to pick Ram and made him sit on the chair set behind. Once Ram sat there, her eyes went to Shrestha. The little girl looked devastated equally. She stood straight against the wall. Priya first called Vishesh from Ram’s phone and then walked to Shrestha. Feeling an unknown touch her trance broke and she was surprised to see Priya standing in front.

“Sit down please. I know you are also going through a tough time.” Priya sensed her eyes. They have an uncanny similarities with hers. That girl’s jawline, the eyes, her lips, have desperate similarities with hers. For a moment she felt looking to her own reflection, her own self 10 years back. “Please.” Priya couldn't believe that she was persuading her husband's “her”.

Moments later, Vishesh appeared as summoned by Priya. Vehan came out and stood with his head hung, eyes looking for an easier way to break the news.

“Vehan!” Priya stood up and walked towards him. Before she could ask anything Priya got the answer when she found him nodding his head from right to left slowly. Covering her mouth she gasped. Her heart missed a beat. “how could god be so cruel?” Priya thought and looked back. Shrestha, who also noticed the news gestured by the doctor screamed out. She wanted to run into the ICU but Vehan held her back on time. The immediate reactions came from Ram. Trembling he tried to stand but next moment he plunk on the chair back. Vishesh held him tight. Priya dropped to Ram and held his hands firm.

“He had only one dream.” Ram said. His last words gave a sense of sheer pain, “To grow up.” He started weeping again. Priya had no choice but to dial a number from Ram's phone. The display showed it as “Dada.” She found it little surprising as she had never heard Ram addressing his father with that title, not even once in college. She waited for the other person to receive the call, she kept her hand affirm on Ram's shoulder while her eyes on Shrestha.  

Reshma came out that moment, she looked emotionally drained too. Sitting on a chair and looked no where. Tears tickle down her eyes. Wiping those she sat occupied in own thoughts.

Vehan looked helpless and gestured Priya to come near him. Looking at Ram, who sat emotionally drained and fragile with no sense left within him that moment, she heaved a sigh before walking to Vehan. “It is my duty. Priya help Ram to collect. He needs to sign on some documents so that you guys can take...” he chocked too, which he was definitely not allowed to. “You people need to claim the dead body and without Ram's sign it is not possible. He has signed on the admission form.”

“Vehan can I see him? Once.” Priya said.

“Hmm..” he nodded and pushed open the door for her. Looking back Priya gave instructions to Vishesh and walked inside where Vehan helped her to get into a green hospital gown, covered her hair with a surgical cap and asked her to follow. Bare footed as Priya stepped inside the ICU coldness hit her spine. She has never been to an ICU earlier. The sense of death engulfed. What death looks like she never knew but she once tried to reach it and now she felt the terrible mistake she chose to do then. A little boy knew the real meaning of life but not her. A boy who just started to live identified the real meaning of life. We all run towards a hollow judging it to be our goal, but in the process we often forget to remember the basic truth behind life. We need to grow up. “There.” Vehan's voice broke Priya's trance. She looked up and her eyes fell on a beautiful boy draped in a green hospital uniform. A picture of Ram and Priya rests near his head. Until few days earlier he must be a cheerful boy but now he became a body, within a fraction of hour he is now a body, which is needed to be claimed. With baby steps and blur vision Priya came near him. Her hand shivered as she rose them to touch his forehead. Caressing his head she looked at the lifeless body. She hoped for a miracle which she knew will never happen but she kept on hoping. With the first blink of her eyes tear drop fell on the bedsheet.

“Priya, I know it is tough but control yourself.” Vehan said placing his hand on her shoulder.

“I know.” With a sudden thrust she turned back and almost ran out of the ICU. Once she came out her eyes fell on Amarnath, Vikram and Rishab. Rishab was trying to console Ram but the other two men stood far, near the door.

“That man can never be a shame who still wishes to call his father with the name that he uttered the very first time.” Priya pulled up the phone, unlocking it she showed it to Amarnath. “Isn't that your number bauji?” taking the phone from her hands Amarnath looked into the contact name. It read “Dada.” Priya pressed the back key and the contacts sections popped up. “Can you enlighten me more if I sensed it wrong?” She pointed to My Number option, abbreviated it read “DC” “Dada's Chotu” in details. “He can never be a shame.” Priya shoved the phone in her bag. “He needs his Dada's shoulder to cry. Your chotu needs you Bauji.”

Feeling a lump in his throat, Amarnath looked up with tearful eyes. Dumping his emotions to a corner of his heart he sat by Ram and held his hand under his own. It was that moment when even the strongest flood gates became very weak and vulnerable in front of a mere storm triggered particularly towards it. Without uttering a single word, he wept like a little boy who just lost the most precious gift of life. Amarnath held and comforted his son in the fatherly hug.

Least Priya noticed a pair of eyes snapped at her as if she has made a dreadful mistake by uniting Ram and his Father.

~~

Almost three days passed, Ram spoke a very little. He kept himself locked in guest room at the Mansion and absence of any unwanted occurrence made Priya belief the intruder has taken a back seat after Manik's involvement. But soon she was about to be proved wrong.

In the third device Priya inserted her sim, before the back up could get complete one after another notification surfaced in. At first she didn't gave importance to those and waited for the back up to complete but the recent message that popped up on the screen made her hurry and read it.

It read, “You did a big big mistake. You must pay.”

She looked for the number and it was send from a protected number. Scrolling down she noticed that there are many more messages as if the person was very restless to get in touch with her. And every message read same as the newest one.

She kept the phone aside and went down stairs to find Ram but instead saw a girl walking inside along with one valet. Priya looked at the time. The valet stood straight with Priya's first sight. “I will take this from here. Please leave.” Priya animated the instructions to him. After the man left, Priya welcomed Shrestha and asked her to feel comfortable. She knew the purpose of the visit, judging it Priya turned to go upstairs. She stopped as Shrestha spoke. “You did a big mistake.”

“What did you say?” Priya blurted.

“Inviting me here is a big mistake. Ram will be offended.” Shrestha said.

“Shrestha, I can handle him and I am concerned about you.” Priya said. She lied in real. She is concerned to send Shrestha away from Ram. A jealous rage was storming inside her. “I learnt it from Reshma you have a keen interest in fine arts and you should join a college too. You are already lagging behind. Isn't it?” This time she spoke her heart.

“But I can't leave. I mean to say I can't leave them alone.” Shrestha said. And Priya heard “I can't leave Ram alone.”

“What did you say? Whom you can't leave alone?” Priya asked.

“The people over there at Lavasa. They are my family.” Shrestha said firmly staring confusingly at her.

“But...” Priya looked back as Ram's voice echoed through the room. Shrestha and Priya looked towards him together. Priya checked him. He had a bag in his hand. For first two days neither he slept nor had food. On third day morning he broke his fast after Amarnath fed him. He has grown stubble and dark circles too.

“Ram are you going somewhere?” Priya asked.

“Yes. I will stay at Lavasa for the rest of the week and I am so sorry I couldn't stay back for the inauguration of your new office. Pardon me.” Ram said in a single breath. “And have your medicines on time please and I have asked Meera to come down at Mumbai and be with you.” He walked to Shrestha. “Are you coming with me?” Nodding positively to Ram, Shrestha stepped aside and walked towards Priya.

“Priya di, if we discuss my future later, any other day will that bother you?” She asked politely.

“No.” Priya looked down. Shrestha surprised her with a quick hug. Smiling faintly she walked back to Ram. Priya waited for Ram to turn around and say bye but preoccupied within himself he walked out of the mansion almost forgetting that Priya was still standing there, while Shrestha trailed behind.

~~

The constant ring of the mobile broke Priya's sleep. She rubbed her eyes and took up the receiver in her hand it is a Private number. She quickly cleared her throat and picked up the phone. “Hello” she said.

“A death, that happened because it was supposed to happen. Some deaths, will happen because I have already written them and few will happen because you denied obeying. Priya this is the last warning go away from Ram's life else...” there was a hysterical laugh. “There is a change in plan, I can't kill you darling. I will kill Ram. Leave Ram else I will make him take leave forever.” Before Priya could say something the line went dead.

That voice, there is a tad similarity but not only with the intruder but with someone else. She couldn't exactly remember who that person is.

She once thought to update Manik with this but then she decided to call Vishesh and discuss the matter. In an hour Vishesh obeyed and came to Kapoor Mansion to meet Priya. A valet lead him to the master bedroom which was empty Vishesh’s detective instinct made him hover his eyes around the room and his eyes fell on the swing at the terrace. Walking to the French window he knocked and waited for the next instruction.

“Come.” Priya said without looking. “Hi Vishesh.”

“Are you worried about something Ma'am?” Vishesh said.

“I received a call and some arrays of messages, asking me to leave Ram.” Priya looked lost.

“I received something same.” He said. This made Priya look at him. Vishesh narrated the incident happened that night. After listening to the complete incident Priya sat straight. “Ma'am, danger is not on you but on Sir.”

“But why?”

“I am trying to figure it out only and in that process I got a lead.” Vishesh pulled out the phone and showed that day’s clip to her. Paused it at a place and zoomed to the woman figure on the other side of the road.

“Who is that?”

“Don't know but that man is not alone. He has a partner too, possibly a woman.” Vishesh pulled back the phone.

“I need to be with him but before that I need to know something.” Priya picked up the phone and then realised she has not taken Vehan's number that day so she called on landline and requested the operator for Vehan's number but when she denied Priya executed plan B. After a few minutes search she got the number that the hospital uses to take appointments. She booked an appointment with Vehan in a fake name and left the Mansion with Vishesh, taking Krishna's permission siting some official works surfaced in last moment. She planned to leave for Lavasa straight from hospital and inform the family accordingly.

She had to wait for two hours to reach Vehan and thankfully as requested to the secretary she managed her appointment to happen last. A little lie she framed that she was waiting for her husband to arrive. At last Vehan's PA appeared and informed Priya that either she has to visit the doctor alone else she has to come some other day, as she is the only one left from the list. Happily Priya sauntered to the room and peeped inside. “May I come in Doctor.” Priya said.

“Yes. Please.” Vehan said without looking at the door. He looked up only when the so called patient took the seat opposite to him.

“Hey hi.” Vehan looked down to the file. “I didn't know you need an oncologist?” He said.

“Vehan I need your help. Please help me.” Priya almost begged. “Not medical advice but something else.”

“Can you give me ten minutes so that I can change and address your difficulties?” Vehan said, but Priya suddenly found uncanny resemblance between his, the voice over phone and intruder's voice. “Hey I can’t go out in this uniform.” Vehan smiled. “Please wait outside it will take less than ten minutes.” Priya smiled and vacated the room. Just after her she heard a sound, Vehan locked the door after her.

Priya remembered the intruder's words.

“A death, that happened because it was supposed to happen. Some deaths, will happen because I have already written them and few will happen because you denied obeying. Priya this is the last warning go away from Ram's life else...” Is it Vehan who intruded and tried to kill her?” Priya thought. “An ill practising doctor or a goon can write a death.” Priya shivered out of the thoughts when Vehan came and stood in front. He was adjusting the collar of his jacket. Combing hair with his both hand he asked Priya for coffee.

“Sure. I need some information from you too. Is there any coffee shop near by?” Priya asked.

“Yeah. A Starbucks counter is just on the opposite lane.” Vehan said putting his glasses.

“I must say you had a drastic change. Who will say you are the same one whom we used to call encyclopaedia in school days.” Priya mocked him. They walked out from the hospital premises.

In the car Vishesh kept on looking into every conversation that was happening between Priya and Vehan. Thanks to the mini camera and microphone that Vishesh fixed on Priya’s saree and it is coupled with the software that is installed in his Mac book.

Vehan, Priya's school friend, the guy with square glasses and once his love hormones steamed up and he proposed Priya on their 12^th standard’s farewell party. Which Priya declined politely siting no such reason in particular but Vehan took that rejection as a result of their religious difference.

His full name is “Vehan Ghani.”

Until we meet

Love

NB

Chapter 39: Death of Love

Chapter 39: Death of Love.. her hate was that love.

First thing Priya noticed when she came to her room was Ram. Out in the balcony. Arguing over phone. She guessed. Arguing because when ever he raised his hands over waist line, it was in disgust. Disgust because his facial expressions can be read. Once she thought to barge in, then changing her mind she ambled to the changing room. In past she used to lock the door and used to check it many times before taking off her clothes to change into the her night suite, but that moment she kept it open and didn't even cared to shut it behind without the bolt. She stopped. Her eyes went to a box kept by the stand alone mirror wrapped in a red gift wrapper that has miniature hearts engraved over it in silver. She smirked. For a moment she forgot the garage incident and walked towards it. Carefully not hurting her she picked up the box. She struggled a bit, for the weight it had. Did he put a rock in it? Priya thought and giggled. Placing the packet on the stool she knelt infront of it and started unwrapping it. She found it little odd when it opened and air packets made appearances. Those little things don't have such weights, she thought. Removing one by one she found the reason behind the weight. A photo frame, its back was facing her. Whatever there was on the frame displayed can be seen only after flipping it. She felt a lump in her throat. Her mouth dried and a rage shot up her veins when she saw the picture. It was from her marriage, the picture was captured during the Sindoor Dan ceremony. It was a perfect shot. The shutter was pressed when Ram applied the vermilion parting her hair. What made her blood boil is someone has put a cross over Ram's face on the photo, possibly, it is imprinted on it. The glass over the frame is clear as crystal. “Which bustard has done this!” Priya made some false tries to rub the mark away from it when she realised that it was imprinted on the picture itself. She fell on the floor with a thud and looked straight to the wall with worry and anguish printed all over her face while she hugged the picture by one hand near her heart.

“Priya. Priya. Priya.??” It took a good one minute for Ram to break Priya's trance. She shuddered before looking to Ram who hunched down to her. “What happened and what is this?” He picked up the gift box once and next minute he placed it back at its place. “Any gift? That arrived behind us?” he asked with a pause between the two queries. Still there was no response from Priya. Her trance only broke but she was lost in some other place. “Priya.....” Ram shook her forcing to look at him obliquely. “What is in it?” Ram asked pointing to the frame under her arms. He followed Priya's eyes which fell straight to the frame. Carefully he pulled it out from her hand and looked carefully on it. His face winched. He also sat by Priya, heaving out a deep sigh.

“He has again invaded.” Priya said faintly. When there came no reply from Ram she looked to Ram and found him staring at the roof. “I can't afford to loose you again Ram.” She softly placed her head on Ram's shoulder shivering him out of his thoughts. He missed what Priya said to him before leaning to him. He did his best by holding Priya by her shoulder, while she hugged him placing her hands around his waist. They sat there for next several minutes when Ram spoke.

“He made a mistake this time.” Ram said.

“What?” Priya asked sitting straight at her place.

“This is not a laminated picture but a printed one. And I some where read every picture carries an identification number of the printer that is used to print it.” Ram said looking to the picture. “And we are going to take this to Manik tomorrow.” Ram said.

“I hate to see that man.” Priya stood up supporting Ram. He followed her.

“Why?”

“He is irritating.”

“But he is the best person to help.”

“That is bad you know. Actually we don't have an option left with us. But...” Priya stopped in front of the opened wardrobe.

“What but?” Ram said picking up the gift box.

“I can't....” Priya looked down.

“What you can't?” Ram asked inspecting the packet.

“I can't afford to loose you again.” She said feeling the dryness in her throat. She never ever thought that Ram will become again an invincible part of her breathes.

“Priya.” Ram felt an ache in his heart. “What you think, have ever lost me?” he softly touched her shoulder. Priya had no courage left to look into Ram's eyes. She stood frozen at her place looking down to the floor. “I was, is and always will be yours.” He said under his smile. Priya felt the smile. When she didn't respond Ram turned her to him. He smiled at the view. The moment has drained out the every bit of courage, anguish and arrogance from her. Loosing breath under the influence of that moment she stood with closed eyes towards Ram. “Go change now. I need to see the CCTV footage. This matter should not be taken easily. You are priceless for me and I want you back.” He smiled tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. After she looked up Ram smiled back, “The You. The Love you had for me. Not the one you feel for the helpless man standing in front right now.”

Though Ram had smile pasted on his face, Priya’s face was overcast with many unanswered queries. “What do you mean?” She asked.

“Priya if you have not seen those pictures and that room, would you be able to melt down so quick and when you had strong hatred and doubts about me having an affair with Shrestha?” Ram asked politely.

Priya had to look away. Deep inside, she realised Ram was right. The sudden melt down happened after she visited his past.

“I want your love not sympathy.” This time Ram sounded rude. But Priya didn't complain because she knew if she had not seen those pictures she would be in denial to accept that he also loves her, more than she do. “I will be back soon.” Placing the picture frame down, he strode away from her. Sighing deep in anguish she looked at her reflection that fell on the stand alone mirror.

Was it an act of hidden sympathy that came out suddenly triggering her hormones to tickle the love out of the deepest cave of her heart? Priya thought. Closing her eyes she tried to remember that instant moment when she looked at her birthday pictures shelved in the show case and the twelve gifts. The pictures around that room which forced her to believe that Ram was also tracking her down like she used to. The difference was Ram used to do so because of love and she because she wanted revenge? What happened to her? Where was Ram's fault for what Rajat did to her? Ram has never disgraced her, even their first make out was more emotional than sexual. Yes she had lost her virginity to him that day but she remembered how Ram felt her uneasiness and controlled his own desires. He respected her equally. There was not a single instance when Ram has touched her inappropriately even when they were alone. He only approached if there was a subtle hint from her. Her thoughts broke when a sheer pain hit her shoulder to her neck which shot directly to the head. She shivered at her place. Picking up her night suite she walked to the washroom looking back to the parcel for another time. This time her furious glance fell on it.

~~

“Are you guys are sleeping?” Ram shouted to the touch notch of his voice. “How could it be possible none of the CCTVs has captured him to intrude? How could even this be possible? Is he has the secret formula of invisibility that Mr. India never shared?” He mocked the new security personnel along with the previous set of security still there.

Rishab, who just drove back after dropping Riyah to her place heard noises from the monitoring room. “Bhai is everything okay?” he tagged into the conversation trying to know what exactly was happening.

“That man again intruded. This time he left us a gift wrapped in a red gift paper.” Ram said furiously, “Almost one and half feet in length and breath.” He said animating the size.

“That was brought by me Bhai!” Rishab said making Ram more anxious. Why the hell on the earth Rishab will gift him a picture where his brother's face was stroked off? His trance broke as Rishab continued to speak. “I asked one of our staffs to settle it in your room, among other gifts or changing room.”

“What other gifts?” Ram exclaimed.

“The one you have received and may be due to open it.” Rishab justified. “And I did so because he said bhabi is particular about the cleanliness and appearance of the master bed room. I didn't want to offend her.”

“But what did you gift us? Is that...” Ram was in midway to ask the question when Rishab cut in.. “Me?” He let out a confusing laugh. “That was ordered by you I guess and delivered at our office. You were not available so I received it on your behalf and did the needful.”

“Don't lie Rishab!” Ram had a sense of warning in his voice.

“I am not bhai. If you really don't believe me call our receptionist and confirm.” Rishab said firmly. “Why receptionist I can show you the outer packing. I only unwrapped it as it was imprinted over, gift item customised wrapping inside. I thought you have ordered something for bhabi and as a help I opened it to wrap it. But it was already wrapped with the customized paper.”

“Why would I gift myself a picture of mine crossed out with red ink?” Ram looked exhausted.

~~

Priya was still awake when Ram walked inside with a throb inside his head. He was not able to think straight. When would he have ordered such nuisance? He thought deeply. At first it looked like the man was behind Priya, now it seems he is behind Ram. Confused about the motive of the crime he saunter to the love seat and sat placing his body weight all of a sudden on it. The sound made Priya look towards him. She walked slowly to him and sat beside. When her voice remained un-noticed she placed her hand over Ram's. He shrugged and looked up.

“Are you okay?” she asked. “Did he leave any other clue?”

“No.” Ram sighed deep and leaned back. Slipping out his hands he rested his head on them. “Rishab brought that package delivered on my name at office.”

“You ordered it?” Priya looked worried.

“Do you think I am crazy or out of mind?” Ram feigned. “My head is still in a good condition.” He retorted.

“I was just asking.  Anyone will ask.” Priya sat on her place.

“I am sorry.” Ram sat straight. “This man is taking my patience away. I can't danger your life for me.” Priya looked at Ram and found his eyes locked to nowhere. But the pain in it was visible. She ducked down her head and thought about the e-mail she received that morning.

“Ram.” Priya spoke. “I received a mail, must be from the intruder.” She chocked when Ram looked straight into her eyes. “There he asked me to be away from you.” She stretched her hand to Ram with the phone. She waited while Ram read the mail and gave it back to her. “Do you have any enemy Ram?” She asked.

“Except Rajat I have no one. I lead a very simple life Priya. I worked but not directly. I started working in proper sense for myself since I came back to India. From last five years I was working for my own and the people who stays at Lavasa. And the much I remember I have never locked horns with any one.” He exhaled deep. There was a long pause. “Priya I will talk with Manik you are not safe with me. Until he catches the intruder you will stay with your family at Delhi.” He stood up to leave. Priya held his hand under hers. Feeling it he stood waiting for Priya to speak.

“I will not tell you to accept our relationship back in haste. Neither will I ask you not to think that the change happened for the pent house nor will I deny that my melt down happened after knowing that you suffered equally as me. But, don't snatch away my right to love you back, the right to make you feel that your Priya still loves you not being sympathetic to you but with all her heart all the love she had and have for you.” Priya said in a single breathe.

Their eyes meet, after a long time there was that spark in their eyes that sheer attraction in them, proximity in their bodies. Ram took two steps to come near her. Priya didn’t move from her spot neither did she left Ram's eyes. This time when he touched there is something else in it. Priya closed her eyes and remembered, their first night. She knew the touch. What she felt that moment has not changed. His touch still has the same magic. She felt the same insane hormonal rush inside her body with his first touch. He brushed his nails against her bare skin again. This time she felt a shiver and stiffness inside her body. But, there was some other force that went against. She threw herself in Ram's arms and clutched his t shirt tightly under her fist. Ram stopped his trail and placed a firm hand over her head while the other one rested on her back. Stroking her hairs slowly he stood inhaling her fresh fragrance that has not changed even a bit in these twelve years. “Priya.” He spoke. In the hug she opened her eyes. “It's pretty late I think we should sleep.” Coming out of the hug, Priya nodded back and walked to the bed. “Had your medicines?” Ram asked. Priya nodded no to him in return. After feeding her the medicines he turned and walked to the love seat surprising Priya.

“Ram, are you not sleeping here?” Priya asked.

“No.” Ram answered.

“Why?”

“Because you are uncomfortable Priya.”

“I will overcome it soon and if I feel uncomfortable you will be there to calm me, right?” She askked.

Smiling broad Ram walked back to Priya and bend close to her. “Your problem need to be addressed Priya. You need a professional to get out of this filthy feeling that hits you whenever anyone touches you. The feeling you get from breathe of the other person sleeping by you. I can't see you suffering. I want you get cured.”

“I can't share my past with anyone.” Priya looked to the other side.

“I have already shared it with concerned person.” Ram smiled and held her by shoulder and made her lie down.

“With whom?” she asked abruptly.

“With the concern person. Don't worry she will help you to get rid of this filthiness.” Ram came closer and placed a soft peck on her forehead. Soon arrested under the influence of the medicines she dozed off to sleep.

Ram looked at her sleeping calmly. His thoughts travelled back to the past. He can’t stop himself from travelling back to the past.

Kissing each other hungrily they fell on the couch. Their lips meet again after they took ample fresh air inside their lungs. Under him Priya held him tight clawing her fingers on his back. Desires built inside her too, which went out of her control and could be taken care only by Ram. She was feeling a sudden hormonal rush. She never felt such tickle inside her and the desire to be touched and conquered by a man. Her thoughts took a back seat when she felt his one hand moving up against her back under the top she was wearing while the other hand moved down under pants to her firm buttock. She felt a sudden urgency of getting rid of the t-shirts both of them wearing. A monstrous desire shoot inside her to get the warm touch of his body against her. Leaving her lips Ram pulled Priya, facing him she sat. Without any warning he pulled up the party top over Priya's head. She looked down in shyness thinking how Ram could read her thoughts. Pulling out his t-shirt Ram hugged her. She felt his skin touching hers. Kissing her intently he moved down to the strap of her bra and unhooked it with a master stroke. It was not the first time for him. Though the previous two were in a very tender age when he reached his puberty and he made out of his curiosity not driven by such emotional force like that moment. He felt the tender touch of her breasts against his sweaty body and her shiver at the same time. With a tender push he made Priya lie down as she fall on her back, half naked infront of his eyes. A beauty. Does she think to have her first time sex on a couch? Ram thought and a grin suddenly appeared on his face. Already tamed under his masterly act he came atop his prey and did justice to the accessed area Priya left open of him. Kissing her neck, throat his hand travelled down to her globes. Taking one under his hands he drew circles around it and her body reacted. Arching her back she let out a deep moan. Placing his lips on hers Ram started massaging her globes one by one, she shivered badly under him. Ram controlled her moves with sheer control. He knew she has to learn to control her desires when he dropped to her bosom and started doing his job with his mouth. Harder he sucked against her globes louder she moaned. That aroused him more. Without wasting time he came out of his jeans. He felt his groin hard against his boxers. Moving back to her, Ram unzipped her jeans and pulled it down below her knees. Quickly he moved back to her and kissed her hard making her lips bleed. Kissing her madly his hand travelled under her panties. She was wet, ready for him. But he wanted to torture still she will not voice her desires. And she did. When Priya’s lustful voice travelled into his ear drum begging him to make love to her, his threshold broke. Picking her up quickly in arms he went inside the bedroom. He didn't want to give her muscle cramps along with the other pain she was about to get. Tearing out the remaining clothes from her body he got rid of his own boxers. His groin sprang out. Coming atop Ram warned Priya about the pain she was about to get. She knew it, from friends and Neha she became aware that it is painful to loose virginity, but when she held Ram's shaft in her hand Priya was shocked. It will be more pleasurable experience than pain. He whispered into his ears “It's yours only from today and you have to take care of the extra inches of it.” Those dirty talks aroused her more. “Make me yours. Make me yours.” She repeated. As the tip of his man hood kissed her woman hood she moaned loud. “Don’t be so loud baby. This is just the beginning. Let me take you to the ride of life time.” Without warning Ram thrust himself inside her, at first slowly then at once all of a sudden. It was painful for her. A scream came out of her parted lips for a moment only. Later her voice got muffled under the hungry lips of Ram. With his every thrust inside her she moaned but as time went she felt the extreme pleasure. She was witnessing the moment of life time. Exhausted Ram fell on her bosom when both of them came together. Kissing her again and her private parts Ram had his arousal again. Just when he was about to penetrate for the second time that night he saw an uneasiness in her eyes. She was not ready for the second time. “Don't worry Priya, there will be no second time today but I can't promise you next time I can stop myself for you are extremely sexy and desirable. Your body is a temple and I want to worship every part of it again and again.” He kissed her softly and kept his manhood stroking against the lips of her clit. He once went to washroom after Priya slept calmly.

Ram's thoughts broke when he find himself aroused. Closing his eyes covered under his palm he sat there for few more minutes before he stood up and walked to the love seat. “I really can't promise you a careful me Priya the next time you will be mine again. But this time I will wait until you will feel the love straight from your heart.” He lied down on the love seat and soon he also dozed off into deep slumber.

~~

“Hmmm..So it has been received on your name” Manik said looking closely to the box which has the company name imprinted on it. “Instajetprint.in” he read. “Are you sure you have never ordered anything from this online site?” He asked looking to Ram.

“No. Never.” Ram said confidently. “For these I have a particular vendor. He does all the prints for me. I never felt the urge to use the online printing site neither out of curiosity nor with the thought of experimenting.” He replied firmly.

“And you Mrs. Kapoor?” Manik asked.

“Never!” She answered but Manik didn't believe her.

“I will take these items in my custody and will try to get the IP address.” Manik asked the constable to take those items away.

“And Priya has received another threat over mail.” Ram said attracting Manik's eyes to her. Ram gave a print out of the mail and also extended Priya's phone to Manik.

Examining both he looked up. “I need this device too.” Manik extended the phone to Priya. “Take out your sim card and give it to me.” He said.

Looking confused when she was about to deny, Ram held her hand under his and gestured her to obey. Without any further protest, Priya took out the sim card and gave the phone to Manik.

“Thank you.” He said. “Will get back to you two soon.” Manik studied Priya as she stood up leave with Ram. There was no rigidness in her body language neither there is any kind of uneasiness. He waited for them to leave. “I need her call records on urgent basis.” He ordered to his sub ordinate.

~~

Ram was about to climb into the back seat, as they came in Priya's car accompanied by the driver, his phone rang. It was from Shrestha. Looking at Priya he received the call. “Yes.” He said. As the voice from the other side spoke, Ram's expression changed. He came out of the car and stood stunned under the affect of the news for a minute of more and then he shouted out loud, “TAXI..TAXI..TAXI..” and ran towards the road. Before Priya could react she saw him to ride a cab and zoom away. Without wasting time, she climbed into her car and asked the driver to follow the cab going in the opposite direction to their. It took time to get a view of the cab but traffic helped Priya.

After half an hour both the cars drove into the FROTICS Hospital. Both the cars stopped under the portico. Priya came out and saw Ram to run inside clearing the cab's fare. Walking behind she found him in the lobby talking to Reshma and a girl weeping badly clinging to Ram and he held her under his comforting arms.

She knew that moment it was “Shrestha!!”

Until we meet.

Love

NB.

Chapter 38 : The Melt Down.

Chapter 38 : The Melt Down.

With the first knock at the door, the housekeeper of the Shergills opened the door. The visitors were unknown to her so she did the same with them too, as she used to do with every unidentified visiting the household. “Name and purpose of the visit Sir.” She asked politely.

“Manik Sinha, police.” He was not given time to pull out the ID from his pocket and the lady in her mid forty reacted. She turned back and rushed inside. Manik smirked but not in surprise and stood quite. Just when he was about to press the door bell to alert the family of them standing at the open door of the household he saw a woman approaching them.

“Yes.” Neha politely introduced herself.

“Can we come inside and talk?” Manik responded back with a smile.

“Sure. Please.” Neha closed the door behind them and sat on the couch laid at living room after the unexpected guest.

“Ma'am. We are here to clear some of our queries about Mr. And Mrs. Ram Kapoor and attack on the latter.” Manik started. “I am DCP, Mumbai, Manik Sinha.”

“Mr. Manik, are you guys suspecting us in the matter?” Neha’s voice choked.

“Mrs. Shergill?” Manik waited till Neha nodded in approval. “Mrs. Shergill is there anything serious between you people so that we have to suspect you behind the incident?”

“What non sense!” Neha squeaked.

“Then few a things we need to clear. Please co operate.”

“Okay.”

“Mrs. Shergill? Do you and your husband know the Kapoors from your college days?” Manik started.

“Yes.” Neha sweated badly while the AC was doing its job faithfully.

“Does there anything to suspect that Rajat can be behind this attack?”

“I don't know. I mean we were not in touch since she left the college suddenly.” Neha struggled to reply.

“Why she left the college?”

“I don't know. It was her personal decision. I have nothing to do with it.” Neha stood up. “And I will suggest you to be here when my husband is around. I have to attend my baby, it's his nursing time.” She showed the door to the cops without saying straight it to them.

“I feel that you are not comfortable with us to be here.” Manik stood up. Pulling out his card he placed it on the coffee table. “I expect your husband to call me before we summon him at my office. Have a good day Mrs. Shergill.” He walked to the door, opened it and before leaving his eyes went to Neha for another time. Smiling he left the room with his officers closing the door politely behind him.

“Sir.” Poonam dared to speak. “May I ask you something?”

“Hmm...” Manik looked straight to the elevator door.

“Why you are behind Rajat?”

“Is there anything suspicious in Pilani's call records or his movements, who was our primary suspect?” Manik asked.

“No.”

“And Amarnath ji was the one to suspect Rajat and others were in constant denial , specially Priya, to accept that Rajat can be behind this as if she knows something about him or she knows him closely and still in touch with him.” Manik stepped inside the elevator.

“But, if they have acquaintance then why we are suspecting Rajat?” Poonam asked again.

“Is this your first case?” Manik spoke angrily. “Poonam, this is a pure case of a triangle that happened unexpectedly. This Rajat and Priya are behind Ram Kapoor. When intelligence meets criminal minds much deadly devastation happens. I have an account of this Kapoor’s marriage. It happened in 20 days. As if they were in a hurry.”

“Sir, but Priya Kapoor is being attacked. Do you feel she has staged all these pretty cleverly?”

“Not cleverly, intelligently and this lady is behind the Kapoor family. One without a clear idea about the Mansion can never invade with such ease.” Manik looked thoughtful.

“So your suspect is Priya?”

“Yes. Not my primary suspect but she is one of the suspects. She is framing herself as a victim. Very intelligently.  Very very intelligently.” Manik looked up as the elevator opened up at the basement.

~~

“And how this happened?” The doctor asked finishing his job. “This is the showcase of the complete ignorance Mrs. Kapoor. Your stiches could get punctured, do you know that?”

“I am sorry doctor, I will be more careful from the next time.” Priya replied looking down to the floor.

“Better you should, else I will suggest an indoor treatment.” The doctor looked up from the writing pad and looked towards Ram. “At least you should take care of her more for a few days.”

“I will Doc.” Ram replied.

~~

Walking out from the doctor’s cabin Ram received the call that was constantly bothering him since a long time. He was little surprised to note the behavioural change in Vikram's calling pattern. “What Vikram? You know pretty well if I disconnect the call that means I am busy.” Ram spoke.

“It is needed Ram. DCP came to my house and asked about you and Priya and Rajat.” Vikram ended the phrase with a nervousness shooting inside him.

“What did you say?” Ram asked with the sense of nervousness shooting inside him, teleported from Vikram.

“I was at office. Neha asked him to come when I am at home and in return he showed concerns and asked me to call back. He left behind his visiting card for me.” Vikram hold the card up in his hand.

Ram looked aside to Priya who was having many question in mind. She looked equally tensed full of queries suspecting some unwanted incidents happening at her back.

“I will meet you soon. Just call Manik and ask about his concerns and if he ask you to meet, please do that but don't spill the truth. The dreadful one.” Ram said holding Priya's hand under his. “I have to go.” Disconnecting the call he remained glued at his place while Priya got the hint about the conversation that took place between two friends.

“Are they behind me?” She asked in almost inaudible voice.

“They are behind Rajat. I think they are suspecting him for everything.” Ram said squeezing her hand under his. He wanted Priya to know that he is by her always.

“But Rajat can never do it!”

“I am not getting this Priya, why you are repeating the same without knowing anything.” Ram was visibly not happy with Priya's nagging.

“Because he can't be. I know.” Priya almost shouted.

“Priya let's not discuss this here. Let us discuss this in private. Calm down.” Ram took measures to stop Priya from creating a scene. “Come let's go.” He led her to the way out.

While on the road, Priya called Vishesh and asked him to take few days off, as she is not in mood for office, which was untrue. Her anxiety forced her to remain away from the people. Absorbed in deep thoughts, Priya kept her eyes fixed on the road. Her thoughts travelled back into time. That time when she committed that crime. There was no way he survived that brutality. She was in her extreme hormonal rush that day. Her brain had stopped working then. Only thing she could sense then was her pain. The brutal act that she planned and executed looked perfect but was it a perfect crime? There seemed to be two possibilities one: Rajat escaped the brutality by luck which was almost next to impossible, but that was a possibility. Two: someone from his past is invading her present, but except Rajat's mother there was no one so close to him. She thought can there be any other reason. Just that moment her phone buzzed with a notification. An e-mail surfaced in her mail box. She sighed and was about to clear the notification when the subject of the mail drew her attention. It read “Warning!” Her eyes went to Ram. He was driving calmly through the traffic. Keeping his attention undivided she opened the mail.

It read...

Mrs. Kapoor,

Hope you are doing well. You were never my target. Your husband is the one who is coming between me and my business. Take this as an advice and last warning. You are more powerful and influential than he is, leave him and live a good life. Next time I can't promise if you will be able to breathe again if you continue to stay with him.

PS : Ask your body guard to keep away from him. Don't take me so easy.

There was no signature underneath the email address was from an no reply mail address. And she was sure if she searches for the IP address and other protocols she will end up in another part of world when the man himself may have typed and send this mail while keeping an eye on her or Ram or possibly both of them. Placing the phone back she glanced at Ram. He has not replied to her since her confession.

“Ram.” She called. Snapping out from the road he looked towards her as a reply. “Can we spend a day at your pent house?”

“Priya we are out of house since yesterday and I have to speak to bauji about Rishab and Riah. They are spending much time together and I will lose Rishab if I can't stop Riah's marriage.” Ram gave justifications.

“Riah is getting married?” Priya asked pretty stunned. She trailed further the conversation. “Last time I spoke to her and her family they were convinced. Yes it is true I never got time to speak to them because ....” She paused and looked towards her husband. “That accident happened.”

“You meet them? I thought only Riah was there.”

“Yes I had. The day when you barged into my car suddenly, remember? I was waving to her family only. I promised them to fix a meeting with bauji in two to three days. But I never got a chance. You know why.” Priya replied trailing the conversation further. “Fix a meeting with them I want to speak to them but before that we need to speak to our family.”

“Hmmm..” Ram replied looking back to the road.

“Ram.” Priya called him again. “What shall I reply to bauji about our decision?” She looked at Ram's side profile. He felt a lump in his throat. The Adam's Apple wobbled against his throat. “What should I?”

“Priya, right now your safety and insecurities are my concerns. Nothing else. Our future can wait but your safety should not be compromised. Let's keep this matter aside for a moment.” He replied gazing at the road.

“Is my past bothering you?” Priya's question triggered the bull's eye Ram halted the car with a screech. He heard the cars honking behind. The man from the car came out and bad mouthed Ram thumping loudly on the window shield. His car’s head lights got damaged after he ended up hitting the tail end of Ram's car. The thumping got louder but Ram's eyes never moved from Priya's eyes. Without looking back he opened the automatic window. He only looked out when the man grabbed his collar in his fist.

“If your car is damaged mine too.” Ram came out and inspected the cars. “I thank lord that no one is hurt in the process, my luck. But I am sorry for your losses which I will take care of.” He pulled out a visiting card and politely extended it to him. “I am again sorry for the incident, accept my apologies and ask your mechanic to drop a call to any of the mentioned number the costs will be taken care of.” Ram looked ashamed.

Snatching out the card, the man started spitting bad words for him. Irritated by the behaviour Ram turned and started walking towards his car. Without letting any words get absorbed in, he pressed hard on the accelerator, the car zoomed out of the scene in a blink of eyes.

The car honked when the guard have to hurry a little to open the gate for the master's car. Ram who usually stops the car at the veranda but that moment he zoomed through the aisle and parked the car inside the garage. He was angry. His breathes were uneven. Putting off the engine he came out the car and slammed the door behind as if he wants it to rip off the cage of the car. Priya tried to open the door but failed. Then she realised her husband has locked it. Ducking, just when she was about to call Ram, the door unlocked with a click.

“Ram....” Priya had to let her words rest. She felt a pull on her forearm. Ram pulled her out with much care. Even in his anger he was aware of her wounds. She thought. Priya was partially correct. Her trance broke when he pinned her to the support behind.

“What did you say?” Ram held her in his both hands. “Your past is bothering me? That past which is a result of my actions. Do you consider me someone sympathetic towards you?”

“Ram you are hurting me.” Priya moved tried to move out.

“I know I am hurting you, but listen to me carefully very carefully I love you more than anything. My love doesn't need a tangible proof. My love is not a way to showcase my sympathies towards you. I loved you and will love you. Always.” Moving his hands upwards he cupped Priya's face. He moved closer until their foreheads touched. A lone tear escaped Ram's eyes. Priya wanted to hug him back but her wound and being pinned under his weight it became almost impossible for her to move even an inch. Ram felt her touch on his hand. They can feel the warmth of one another. Last night was one of the moments when Ram became weak, he responded to Priya and her actions. He remembered her soft touch against his lips. Her hands over his body but he was sure about her remembering nothing. The proofs helped him to come out clear not the belief she entrusted on him once. Slowly she moved her hand and placed it near his heart.

“No Priya. Don't force me to go weak.” Ram moved back. But he had to stop locked between Priya and the car. Priya didn't let him speak, slowly she side walked out of the garage. She waited until Ram appeared by her.

“If you can wait for me. I can too. I will definitely find the reason behind your insensateness.” She said under her deep sigh before walking inside. He stood there witnessing his love to walk away from the barrier of the ego into the vastness of beauty of their love. Like he never wanted to force Priya to love him back, he can't also reciprocate her feelings that came back after she stood infront of his past. If that remained protected will she be able to love him back? Does she love him only for his dreadful past, for the fragile days that lay naked in front of her? Jolting out from his thoughts he heaved out a deep sigh and walked towards the Mansion.

~~

Same day evening.

Amarnath was busy in his study with some pending work when Priya knocked at the door. “Come in.” Came the reply.

“Bauji.” Priya said as she stood in front.

“How are you Priya? Anything serious to discuss?” He said without looking up from the file.

“We, means I and Ram need to discuss with family. If you don't mind can you join us at living room?” Priya asked politely. She winced her face when Amarnath closed the file and let out a smile. He looked up straight to Priya and his lips arched more.

“I asked you two...” Amarnath stopped under Priya's voice.

“It's about something else. Please.” Priya requested.

“Okay. Let's see.” He walked behind Priya.

~~

“Bauji, please don’t react. We can explain everything.” Ram stiffened at his place after Priya ended up breaking the news of Rishab and Riah to the family.

“Hmm..” Amarnath smiled. “And Ram why you felt that I will react to this news?” He looked around to his wife and mother. While former was happy the latter forced a smile. Sarojani was visible uncomfortable accepting the youngest grand daughter-in-law from another religion. “I am not living in stone age, they are educated hails from good family and most importantly they love each other. They meet every criterion to accept their relationship. I don't feel that I even have a single reason to react.” He stood up this time. “Yes, one thing has hurt me. Rishab could have come to me and said it proudly. I don't find anything wrong in this or do I look intimidating? Have I ever treated my children like an angry father?” He looked smiling towards Krishna.

“Now Priya and Ram it is your responsibility and ensure that we meet Riah soon.” Krishna bestowed another responsibility on the couple.

“That I can do right now!” Priya stood up smiling ear to ear.

“And that is exactly how?” Krishna asked.

“Actually they are waiting outside. Outside the mansion. If you allow we can call them inside.” Priya looked around.

“Why it is needed this late?” Sarojani spoke for the first time. “Ask Rishab to drop her back to home.”

“Maa. She is here. Where is the problem to meet her?” Krishna looked back.

“This late! Have you seen the time?” Sarojani rebuked.

“Maa it is 8 only!” Amarnath smiled.

“I am not meeting this girl. Good night.” Sarojaani walked out of the room. After her Priya looked tensed realizing the reason of such reaction.

“Priya, beta she will take some time to accept, leave it to us.” Amarnath announced. “Right now call that idiot and his better half.”

~~

Riah felt easy after Krishna and Amarnath welcomed her whole heartedly. Her only concern was centred to her family and the prospective groom that her father finalized for her. Priya had addressed that worry too way early. Her convincing power had been a gift to her. Before the Kapoors, she convinced the Saldanhas. Riah felt a little free when she came to know that her family agreed to come to Mumbai for further discussion about her and Rishab's future.

In between the interaction Priya's phone buzzed with a message from Meera. It read,

“I know you have decided to keep yourself away from the office for two days. But there is something to discuss. If you feel good please contact.”

Priya excused herself and called back Meera immediately. “Yes Meera. You can call me anytime. I don't share a professional relationship with you.”

“I felt so when you dropped the call at my face this morning.” Meera feigned.

“Come on now Meera. Stop over reacting. This doesn’t suites you.” Priya laughed.

“Yeah. Yeah. As Ashok says God mistakenly made me a woman. Actually I am a man in woman's disguise.” Meera laughed.

Priya joined her in the same. “I believe him to be true.” She laughed more. “Waise where is handsome these days?”

“Tough question. Even I got him twice in last three weeks. I crave for him.” Meera mocked Priya. “You lucky girl, your husband never leave you alone. Ashok left for Denmark on the 11^th day after our marriage. Sometime I feel him to be the most unromantic chap in this world. Then you flash against my eyes. The girl with the extreme power to block the heart and its beats. How are you alive doing so?”

“Now will you shut up and speak the concern?” Priya rebuked.

“Right! Ma'am, Mumbai Office is ready. New recruits have joined Delhi Office and they have completed the training weeks, the team from Delhi is ready to get relocated and the other location which will be our future destination at Mumbai is also ready, after pooja we can start the rest of the construction and interiors. So Ma'am when we can do that?” Meera stopped the trail.

“Hmm...” Priya said thoughtfully. “So that is the concerns. Hmmm... let me think, tomorrow is .... okay done Sunday. We will inaugurate on Sunday. And Meera...”

“I know, Sudheer ji right!” Meera said under her smile. “I will convince him. Waise Priya he is melting down. Yesterday he tried to call you but when he failed to contact you, he called me and took every update about your health and he was really concerned. So I think he will nag for few moments but it will be very easy to convince him. Leave it to me. By the way I feel they should stay at the pent house.” Meera ended.

“Haan, yes. They will.” Priya replied and then she remembered something. “Meera there are some guest I need to go.”

“Wow. So Ms Priya Sharma is transforming into Mrs. Priya Kapoor..” Meera mocked her jocularly. “Aye hain, someone is blushing...” she added after the line remained unanswered.

“Shut up and good night.” Priya disconnected the call in hurry. But then she remembered the pent house and its lock. Only Ram could help her in it. She called him. “Can you come and meet me here by Dadi's room?” Getting an answer she stood there quite.

“What happened?” Ram appeared excusing himself from the living room.

“I need your help.”

“Hmm.. speak about the concerns.”

“I need to unlock the pent house.” Priya said.

“I said you, we need the punch card. You know how it got locked.” Ram answered.

“That is the problem.” Priya thumped her foot. “It is with Mom and if I ask her to bring it with her, she will make a scene out of it. I know my mother well.”

“Who hell on this earth keeps it some hundred of kilometres away from the house? Ridiculous. And they are coming to Mumbai? Why?” Ram asked.

“My Mumbai Office inauguration is on Sunday!” Priya announced and took the words further. “And Mom Dad will be here and I want them to stay there.”

“Why they can't stay here?” Ram asked.

“You know the reason.”

“Okay.” Ram sighed. “I will bring the duplicate key from my locker tomorrow. You can then reset the code.”

“What!!” Priya almost screamed. “You have a duplicate one.”

“Yes. I have.”

“And you never said me that!”

“Stop reacting. I have kept it as back up for incidents like these.” Ram defended.

“But I bought that pent house from you. I should have everything related to it. I can put case of trespassing on you. Do you have an idea about it?” Priya grabbed Ram’s collar.

“That is only left. A wife will put case of trespassing on husband. Anything else Ma'am.” Ram clasped his hand near his forehead and bowed in front of her.

“At the time of deal our marriage was not fixed Ram. You have committed a mistake accept it.” Priya kept on nagging.

“Arey yaar ... I forgot about it.” Ram tried to defend.

“Arey..!!” Krishna appeared there from no where. “What happened why you two are fighting?” She smiled.

“Krishna let them fight. Ladne se pyaar badhta hain. Jo inn dono mein dikhta hi ni mujhe. Ladne de tab jake payar karenge. Let them fight. Let their love hormones act. Come inside.” Sarojani said from the door.

“Sorry kids. Carry on. I will not interrupt.” Krishna smiled looking at the couple. “I have heard nothing and I am not spying I am here on your daadi's call.” She smiled and walked inside the room.

“Happy!!” Ram feigned.

“Yes. Very happy. I want everything related to the pent house that I own.” Priya gritted the words under her teeth.

“I will never give you that. Ni dunga. I will not put the separator even. And one day I will make sure your weird thoughts about me coming out to be true but only with you.” Ram replied back in anguish.

“What weird thoughts?” Priya asked back in hurry.

“Shit!” Ram said to himself. He then realised what blunder he said. “Nothing!” He strode out from there.

“No you have to say me.” Priya almost ran behind him but she has to stop. Presence of elders, Rishab and Riah put her quest to halt. She joined the family but her eyes followed Ram every where around searching for a moment when she could find him alone.

~~

Vishesh's Office.

“Sir” A man knocked at the door. Getting the permission he entered and placed few discs on the table. “As you asked these discs have Traffic CCTV footages of two days and till today 4 am.”

“Hmm... anything to suspect.” Vishesh asked.

“Sir the man successfully protected his identity. We could see him in the CCTV but his face was hidden under the hood and pollution mask.” Vishesh's assistant spoke. “Only clue is he limps while walking.”

“Leave it to me...” Vishesh ordered. He picked up the DVD with that night's recordings. He played it in loop and suddenly his eyes noticed something. He played the clip again this time zooming to it. And bingo! There was another person. A lady. But her face can't be seen closely. She was standing on the other side of the road, as if her duty was to keep eye on the car owner i.e Vishesh himself and alert the intruder on time. Though the face was not clear but it was definite lead in the case. Not him alone but a lady is also involved in it.

Vishesh knew what he must do next.

Until we meet

Love

NB